Sunny Hill UPC

Sunny Hill Pentecostal Church of Purvis, Mississippi, was founded around 1929. The origin of the name remains uncertain, as the church is situated in a low-lying area rather than on a hill. Nevertheless, the name has inspired a beloved motto: “Sunny Hill Pentecostal Church, a place where the SON always shines.”

The pastors who have shepherded Sunny Hill over the years include: Frank Goss (1930–1933), Luke Hodges (1933–1935), J.C. Parker (1935–1936), Rev. S. First (1936), James Matison “Matt” Holland (1937–1956), Albert Travis (1956–1987), Kenneth Sullivan (1987–1990), Dwaine Stewart (1990–2006), and Jeffery M. Jones (2006–present).

Early church history is sparse, as pastors were often traveling ministers with short pastorates. Details about the original church building and the three-room “shotgun” parsonage remain unknown.

The earliest well-documented history begins with Rev. Matt Holland, who assumed the pastorate in 1937 and moved his family to Purvis. A devoted, kingdom-minded man, Brother Holland served not only Sunny Hill but also churches in Jayess and Biloxi, returning to Sunny Hill whenever the congregation needed him. Under his leadership, a new church building was constructed: he personally began tearing down the “Old Tabernacle,” and with funds raised from the sale of chickens, purchased and reconstructed a building from nearby Lumberton, which still stands today after later remodeling. Brother Holland’s ministry was marked by faith-driven obedience; one story tells of him traveling to preach at a location in response to God’s instruction, even without funds, trusting God to provide. His dedication ensured Sunny Hill would remain a steadfast beacon of the gospel.

Following Brother Holland, Rev. Albert Travis assumed the pastorate in November 1956. Under his leadership, the church experienced tremendous growth, culminating in the construction of a larger sanctuary in 1970. The original building was repurposed as Sunday School rooms and a kitchen/fellowship hall. The church gained a reputation as a hub for sectional youth rallies and launched the annual Fall Festival, a cherished community event. Albert Travis also served as Presbyter of Mississippi District Section 10 for approximately 27 years. During his tenure, the parsonage was renovated, a church cemetery was established—where Matt and Myrtle Holland were later laid to rest—and Sunny Hill consistently led in district giving. Sister Marie Travis, licensed in ministry, assisted in pastoral duties and organizing church events. The Travis’ 31-year leadership left a lasting legacy of faith, service, and joy.

In 1986, Rev. Kenneth Sullivan and his family came from California to pastor Sunny Hill. Though his pastorate was brief, lasting only two and a half years, he focused on youth ministry, leaving a lasting impact. His wife, Amy Sullivan, was a gifted musician who nurtured the musical talents of the congregation’s youth.

On November 6, 1990, Rev. Dwaine Stewart became pastor. The Stewart family was deeply committed to holiness and led by example, emphasizing prayer and spiritual integrity. They invested heavily in youth and music ministries, with Martha Stewart leading worship and church programs. Their tenure preserved and strengthened the church’s commitment to holiness during a period of widespread compromise in the broader church world.

The current pastor, Rev. Jeffery M. Jones, assumed the pastorate on April 17, 2006, bringing his wife, Connie, and their young son Brayden. Under their leadership, Sunny Hill has experienced spiritual growth, unity, and maturity. The congregation has supported numerous improvements, including remodeling the sanctuary and parsonage, and constructing a new Sunday School wing, administrative offices, fellowship hall/kitchen, recreational facilities, gazebo, basketball court, and evangelist apartment. Pastor Jones has served as Mississippi District Section 10 North American Missions Director and as a Purpose Institute Instructor, and has expanded ministry to New Life Groups in Hattiesburg/Oak Grove and New Life Church of Oloh.

Pastor and Sister Jones continue to build on the rich legacy of Sunny Hill, believing that God’s future for the church will outshine its past. Their vision, along with the faithful contributions of the congregation, ensures that the story of Sunny Hill Pentecostal Church continues to be written—a story of faith, perseverance, and the gospel shining brightly.