The Marsh Institute honors those who have played a key role in supporting and promoting chaplaincy over a lifetime of service. Nominees must have contributed at least twenty years supporting or promoting chaplaincy. The nominee must be deceased and approved by the Marsh Institute Board of Directors. Our selections are presented in alphabetical order.
2024
Chaplain (Colonel) Jerry D. Reynolds
He dedicated his life to serving soldiers and their families with unwavering faith and compassion. Chaplain Reynolds provided spiritual support to combat infantry soldiers during the Vietnam War and continued his ministry across various assignments, including roles at Fort Bragg, the Pentagon, and overseas in Germany. His exemplary service earned him numerous military awards, such as the Legion of Merit and three Bronze Stars. Beyond his military career, he served as a national missionary for chaplaincy development, mentoring future chaplains across diverse fields. In 2018, his lifetime contributions were honored with his induction into The Order of Saint Martin of Tours. Chaplain Reynolds left a legacy of faith, leadership, and dedication to the spiritual well-being of the military community.
Chaplain (Doctor) Bobby Smith
His unwavering commitment and visionary leadership as a dedicated servant of Texas Baptists left an indelible mark on the chaplaincy community. Serving Texas Baptists for 25 years, including over 20 years as the founding director of Chaplaincy Relations, Chaplain Smith was instrumental in establishing one of the nation’s most esteemed chaplaincy programs. Under his guidance, the ministry endorsed and trained chaplains across diverse fields such as military, correctional facilities, healthcare, public safety, and more, resulting in a network of over 1,125 endorsed chaplains, with 650 actively serving at the time of his passing. His peers affectionately referred to him as a “chaplain to the chaplains,” recognizing his steadfast support and pastoral care for those in ministry. Chaplain Smith’s enduring legacy is reflected in the countless lives touched by the chaplains he mentored and the robust program he built, which continues to serve communities worldwide.