Ron Balzer, New South Conference superintendent for the Free Methodist Church, was killed in a car accident August 10 along with his wife, Tamra, and 3-year-old granddaughter, Hayleigh. 

The Free Methodist Church is a sister denomination to the Church of the Nazarene and a fellow member of the Global Wesleyan Alliance.

"The hearts and prayers of Nazarenes around the world go out to the family and the Free Methodist Church in the tragic, sudden loss of this couple and their granddaughter," said David W. Graves, Church of the Nazarene general superintendent. 

The accident occurred on Interstate 75 near Valdosta, Georgia. One other person was killed and 13 were injured in the eight-vehicle accident, which began when a driver lost control following a tire blow out, according to WCTV. A second car hit the first, causing significant injuries to the second driver. Traffic stopped while the second driver was airlifted to a hospital. A semitrailer then struck the stopped traffic, causing a second series of accidents. 

The Balzers were traveling from their home in Tennessee to Ocala, Florida, for a family reunion. Hayleigh, who was staying with her grandparents, lived in Florida and was returning home. 

The Free Methodist Church announced that a memorial service will be held on Friday at the Bread of Life Free Methodist Church in Ocala, Florida. A second memorial service will be held August 30 at the Wilmore, Kentucky, Free Methodist Church. 

Prayer is requested for the extended Balzer and Free Methodist Church families, as well as the others affected by the August 10 accidents.