Pastor Tim White Board Member

Early Life and Military Service

Timothy White – 1980 graduate of Perry High School (Lima, Ohio)
In 1981, Timothy White enlisted in the United States Army as a language specialist, developing fluency in English, Spanish, German, and Hebrew. During this period, he strengthened his religious studies through close ties with the Jewish community in New York City, a foundation that shaped both his ministry and lifelong love for Israel.

Pastor Tim went on to serve in three combat campaigns during his military career. Following Operation Desert Storm (1991), he transitioned from Regular Army to the Army Reserve, continuing his commitment to both faith and country. His final two years of Reserve duty were spent as a religious leader for Jewish soldiers at Fort Knox, Kentucky, before retiring honorably in 2005 with 24 years of service.

Public Service Career
While continuing his Reserve duties, Pastor Tim began a second career with the United States Postal Service, where he faithfully served for 32 years before retiring.

Education and Ministry
Parallel to his public service, Dr. White pursued higher education, earning a Master’s Degree in Theology from College of Alameda (Alameda, CA), Ph.D. in Biblical Studies and a Th.D. in Theology from Northwestern University. In 2005, he accepted the call to serve as Senior Pastor of Lima First Missionary Church, a position he has held for over 20 years. His ministry is marked by a passion for teaching Scripture and a special devotion to the people and nation of Israel, with whom he maintains enduring connections.

Community Leadership and Volunteer Service
Beyond the pulpit, Pastor Tim has invested deeply in his community:

  • Guardian ad Litem for abused, neglected and dependent children through CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) in the Allen and Putnam County Juvenile Court systems. His dedication was recognized with the Pro Star Volunteer Award, the highest honor given to citizen volunteers in Ohio CASA.

  • School Board Member at both Temple Christian School and Lifewise Academy (Perry).

  • Board Member at Saving Grace Farms Ministry

  • Chaplain for the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Allen County Chapter.

Legacy of Service
Dr. White’s life reflects a consistent calling: to serve God, his country, and his community. From soldier and postal worker to pastor, teacher, and advocate, his journey is defined by faith, integrity, and an enduring commitment to others.