Clay Stephens, pastor of the Monticello, Florida, Church of the Nazarene, passed away unexpectedly November 19. He was 41. 

Stephens told Monticello News he grew up in church but didn't live a lifestyle that reflected the Bible's teaching. When his first wife, to whom he was separated, became pregnant, 21-year-old Stephens wasn't sure if the baby was his and wanted no part in the child's life. A few days after the birth, she called him to meet his son. As he looked down at the baby, Stephens said he heard God say, "If you want this responsibility, it will never be taken away from you." That moment was a turning point for Stephens, and he chose to become a single father after the divorce.

Stephens later became a youth leader and felt a call to full-time ministry. He enrolled in Bible college and became an ordained minister. Stephens began leading the Monticello church as a bi-vocational pastor in June 2013.

According to the Florida District, Stephens was a "missional, visionary, and entrepreneurial-type pastor." In addition to the pastorate, he owned Lighthouse Automotive Repair, rehabilitating men by training them to be mechanics. His outreach to children, adults, the homeless, and anyone in need is having a transformation impact in the Monticello community.

Lighthouse Automotive Repair's mission reads: "Come because you need help. Come because you can help." In its description, the business page states it is "different because we are NEEDS based and not sales based. Our entire motivation is to SERVE yours, and our community needs, and not just sell something to make a profit. In return we ask you to pray for our ministry as we make a positive impact on the lives of people and the automotive repair industry."

Stephens is survived by his wife, Amanda, sons Dequon Simmons (21) and Caleb (20), and a daughter, Trinity (7 months).

Both of Clay's sons work at his automotive shop.

"We serve an awesome, loving and faithful God!" Amanda Stephens posted on Facebook. "My prayer is the ripple effect of this tragic loss brings countless souls to Jesus, brings restoration, brings unity to all my beloved touched directly or indirectly. Thank you for the continued payers. God is faithful and His Grace is sufficient!"

A funeral service is scheduled for 2 p.m., Monday, November 24, at Northwoods Baptist Church in Tallahassee, Florida, with viewing one hour prior. Florida District Superintendent Larry Dennis will officiate. For an online guestbook, click here. 

A cause of death has yet to be determined. Prayer is requested for the Stephens and Monticello church families.