TENNESCENE: FEBRUARY 2

EDUATION

Union University is set to unveil the newly renovated home of its EDGE program.

The Union EDGE program provides a holistic, post-secondary education for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, encouraging increased independent skills that lead to a better quality of life and aligning with Union’s mission of providing Christ-centered education.

Located in the Penick Academic Complex in the area formerly occupied by the engineering department before its move to The Ethos Forum, the new multi-functional space was designed specifically to serve the needs of EDGE students.

The space includes a cooking lab, which features two distinct cooking pods and a teaching station; a student lounge equipped with couches, a television and games to foster community; and a classroom space with tables and a monitor for presentations. The space connects to offices of EDGE staff members.

DEATHS

Billings

Damon Wayne Billings, a former Baptist Collegiate Ministry specialist for the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board died Sept. 4, 2025. He was 54.

Billings, of Russellville, Tenn., was born in Fort Knox, Ky., graduated from Austin Peay State University and Southern Seminary, where he obtained his Master of Divinity.

He faithfully worked with the Baptist Collegiate Ministry beginning in 2001, serving at both Lincoln Memorial University and Walters State University where he served until his death.

“Damon served the Walters State BCM faithfully for more than 20 years,” said Stacy Murphree, TBMB’s collegiate ministries director. “He impacted countless students’ lives by investing in them and leading them to live a life on mission.”

Billings is remembered as someone who lived a life of humble service and deep faith, who loved working with college students, and spending time with his family.

“Damon was one of the most relatable people I’ve ever met,” said Murphree. “ He could have a conversation with almost anyone about any topic, and God used that gift over the years to help students feel welcomed and seen. He was a true friend to all of us on the Tennessee BCM team, always encouraging us in our own ministries.”

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Victoria Grace Billings, and survived by immediate family members Shellie Baggett Billings (wife); Taylor Elizabeth Billings (daughter); and Caleb Tyler Billings (son).

Stinson

Larry A. Stinson, 79, died on December 28, 2025, after a very brief but difficult illness. He was an active member of Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church for over 50 years, leading youth and young adults, teaching Sunday school, singing in the choir, serving as a deacon, and leading many committees including the Helping Hands ministry. He found joy in serving many areas through Disaster Relief and was a blue cap leader for his last year. Larry retired from Delta Airlines with 31 years of service in 1999. He was preceded in death by his parents, Calvin and Becky Stinson. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Martha Jane Stinson; brother, Randall Stinson (Sharon); beloved children, Ricky Stinson (Mitzi) and Christy Stinson Myers (Brent); grandchildren, Marissa and Andrew Myers.In lieu of flowers, please make donations to:

Tennessee Baptist Disaster Relief

c/o Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church

3508 Wildwood Rd

Maryville, TN 37804

BOOKS

Travis Tyler, pastor of Grace Baptist Church, Elizabethton, will release his new book, “Frog in the Stream: A Practical Guide for Sharing the Gospel with Clarity, Courage, and Grace,” on Feb. 13. The book offers a simple and accessible path for Christians who want stronger confidence during gospel conversations. Tyler said, “Many Christians understand the Great Commission and feel a strong desire for family and friends to know Christ yet fear and uncertainty rise whenever an opportunity for evangelism appears.” “Frog in the Stream” addresses those struggles with clarity, encouragement, and a practical framework that guides readers toward faithful witness. The book is available through Amazon.