West Tennessee man honored after 56 years of ministry at Haywood co. jail

BELLS, Tenn — A special Sunday afternoon reception for one west Tennessee man, who has positively influenced thousands of  people through ministry.

For more than half a century Robert Barden has dedicated his life to ministry at the Haywood county jail, and his church family honored him for his efforts.

Members, family and friends of Holly Grove Baptist church gathered to celebrate all Barden has done for the community with a retirement reception.

Barden’s wife, Betty Robison Barden said “he has worked real hard going to the jail every Sunday getting up real early and he’s 88 years old but he still gets up real early.”

Pastor Fred Campbell said not many people want to visit the jail, but explained visiting prisoners is a good deed.

“When people are in prison we’re supposed to go and visit with them and try to help them.” Pastor Campbell said.

Robert Barden, 88, said he started ministering in the jail back in September of 1960.

“I had the pleasure of seeing 2,464 men come to the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal savior.”

After all these years retiring is something Barden didn’t want to do, it’s what he had to do.

“After 56 years I got macular degeneration. I can’t see I could not be able to read my scripture.” Barden explained.

Even though his work is done at the jail he said God’s work is never finished.

“God has blessed me through the years. I’m not retiring from his work. I hope he sends me somebody today to tell them about Jesus Christ.”

Now that Barden has retired Ed Davis Jr., another Holly Grove church member, has decided to take his place and continue the ministry.