Biography:

Odis Leo Kuykendall was born in Canton, N.C. to Henry McKinley and Nealie Kuykendall.

He was saved at the age of 13 years old at Welcome Hill Baptist Church which was located across the road from his house.

He married Carolyn House (16) in 1957. She was the daughter of the Rev Bill House, the pastor of Welcome Hill Baptist Church. She was saved at the age of 18 returning from a revival on the road in the car. (listen to her testimony)

A simple mountain girl who loves God...one who has dedicated her life not only to God, but tries to be a good mate and love people. Her heart's desire is to be a good pastor's wife.

They have 3 children: Odie, Sherry, and Tammy. They have 6 grandchildren: Jeremy 22, Nick 18, Brandon 16, Stephanie 16, Jeffery 14, and Britt 13.

In 1969, Leo answered the call to preach. He was ordained at the Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church in Candler, N.C. by the Rev Bill Belcher.

On April 1, 1969 he answered the call and became pastor of Good News Baptist Church in Candler, N.C. where he served 5 years.

On April 1, 1974 he answered the call and became pastor of Zion Hill Baptist Church in Marion, N.C. where he served 19 years and 8 months.

On December 12, 1993 he became pastor of Zion Baptist Church in Gastonia, N.C. where he's presently serving. He also continues to be involved in the radio ministry ("The Bible Hour") for 33 years.

He now serves on the Board of Directors at Trinity Bible College, Asheville, N.C. He also served as President of Western North Carolina Baptist Camp Meeting in Candler, N.C. and McDowell Baptist Camp Meeting in Nebo, N.C.

He attended Pisgah Baptist Institute in Candler, N.C. for 1 semester. He attended Fruitland Bible Institute in Edneyville, N.C. for 2 years. He graduated from the Tabernacle Baptist Institute with a Graduate of Theology Degree May 31, 1974. He also graduated from Gardner Webb College on May 16, 1981 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree.

His favorite Bible verse: Psalms 37:4 "Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart."