Nearly one year ago, Rex Tollefson arrived in the Johns Creek area from South Dakota, entering a new season of life. His move wasn’t just about geography—it was about care. As his health needs increased, his son encouraged him to relocate so he could be closer to family.
As soon as Rex arrived, he did something simple: he searched online for “Baptist churches near me.” Johns Creek Baptist Church was the first result. He explored the website, decided to visit—and that decision changed everything.
From the moment he walked through the doors, Rex knew something was different.
He remembers being warmly and genuinely welcomed by Dave Ray and the team at the newcomer station, who helped him find his way to worship. Soon after, Pastor David introduced himself and spent time talking with Rex about South Dakota and his story. What stood out most wasn’t just the conversation—it was what happened next. The very next time they saw each other, Pastor David greeted him by name. Rex was surprised—and deeply encouraged.
Rex also remembers meeting and chatting with Pastor Shaun after worship that first day. Rex loves Pastor Shaun’s preaching. But it wasn’t just the preaching or the welcome—it was the consistency. Rex kept coming back, week after week, drawn by the sense that something real was happening here.
“They didn’t just welcome me, they made me feel seen and known.”
Before long, Rex began asking how he could get involved. Having spent his life working in construction, he knew he had something to offer. That question led to connection after connection. Lamar Henderson invited him into the Friendship Class, where Lamar and Gloria, along with the other members of the community, created a space where Rex quickly felt known and valued. Rex is also grateful for the immediate, warm welcome and inclusion in the lesson discussions by Connie White, the seminar leader at the time. He soon became a faithful, weekly participant in that community.
Through those relationships, Rex met others—Calvin Blake, Danny Henderson, and more—who invited him to join the Sawdust Servants. That invitation opened the door to hands-on mission work, including ramp-building projects and a Fuller Center home build in Fitzgerald, Georgia.
Wanting to grow even deeper, Rex also joined the Tuesday Men’s Bible Study, expanding both his friendships and his spiritual life. Along the way, his circle has widened, his relationships have deepened, and his faith has continued to grow.
And at 75 years old, Rex is still leaning in.
Serving in construction-based missions isn’t new to him. Years ago, after Hurricane Andrew devastated South Florida, Rex volunteered for three separate two-week disaster relief efforts. His leadership and skill eventually led to an invitation to relocate his young family and serve as a construction coordinator for ongoing disaster recovery—a role he carried for three and a half years.
But even with a lifetime of service behind him, this season feels meaningful in a new way.
Reflecting on his journey over the past year, Rex puts it simply:
“I am home.”
