MS SC649

Mourns the death of Reverend Keith Tonkel, a Methodist minister who passed away on March 8, 2017, at age 81, and celebrates his life of civil rights advocacy and community service in Mississippi.

Recognizes Tonkel as one of 28 white United Methodist ministers who signed the "Born of Conviction" statement condemning segregation and racism in January 1963, during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, despite facing anonymous threats and church member criticism.

Acknowledges his 48-year tenure as Pastor of Wells United Methodist Church in Jackson since 1969 and his extensive revival ministry, averaging 18 revivals annually across Mississippi, Louisiana, and other locations.

Honors multiple state and national awards received including the Fannie Lou Hamer Humanitarian Award (2009), Distinguished Evangelist of the United Methodist Church (2008), and others recognizing his community service and evangelism work.

Notes that "WellsFest," an event inspired by Tonkel, raised over $1 million for charitable causes and received the Governor's Excellence in the Arts Award in 2012.