Our beloved Deacon, Anthony Dewayne Settles, was born on July 25, 1968, in Wynne, Arkansas, to the late Franklin Settles and Ruby Lee Everette. He grew up in Wynne, graduating from Wynne High School in 1986. Anthony was hardworking from an early age, starting his career at Halstead Industries and later serving many years as a forklift operator with Sanyo/Trane.
Anthony’s greatest joy was his faith and his church family. As a faithful member of New St. James Missionary Baptist Church, he gave of himself in many ways. He served on the Deacon Board, sang with the Male Chorus, and worked as secretary for the choir. His love for the Lord showed in his worship, his service, and his fellowship with others. Deacon Settles truly embodied what it means to serve God and serve people.
Outside of church, Anthony lived a vibrant and joy-filled life. He had the gift of bringing laughter wherever he went, known for his quick wit, jokes, and good humor. A true family man, he loved gathering loved ones around the grill, sharing good food, joy, and love. He had a natural ability to connect with others, never meeting a stranger, and always willing to lend a hand, share wisdom, or simply brighten someone’s day.
Deacon Settles married the love of his life, Verna Settles, on November 14, 1987. Together, they built a strong family grounded in faith and love. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Verna; daughters, Taleesa Reed and Wynesha Settles; son, Marquez Turner; four grandchildren; his sisters, Dorothy Kistler, Frankie Tabor, and Vickie Stringfield; brothers, Kenneth Gaines, Brian Settles, and Jonathan “Tomeko” Settles; his sister-in-law, Angela Reed; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Keisha Yvette Settles, and his grandparents.
Deacon Settles’s legacy is one of love, faith, generosity, and joy. His presence lit up every room, his laughter lifted spirits, and his service to God and others will never be forgotten. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, deacon, and friend — a man whose life was a true testimony of God’s goodness.
We at New St. James thank God for the life and witness of Deacon Anthony Settles. His race was run with faith, and his memory will forever be cherished in our hearts.
