TYNER — The Chowan County Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration Committee is preparing to honor the civil rights icon’s legacy with its annual celebration on Monday, January 19, 2026, at Greater Welch’s Chapel Baptist Church, in Tyner.
The event, scheduled for noon, will feature keynote speaker Rev. William T. Davis, a prominent figure in northeastern North Carolina’s religious and legal communities. The celebration carries the timeless theme drawn from Dr. King’s own words: “The time is always right to do what is right.”
Rev. Davis brings a unique combination of legal expertise and pastoral leadership to the event. Born in Washington, D.C., and raised in Edenton, he has served as pastor of New Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Camden County for 41 years.
His professional journey reflects a commitment to both spiritual guidance and community service. After graduating from D.F. Walker High School, Davis earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Music from North Carolina Central University, followed by a Doctor of Law degree from the same institution. Before entering full-time ministry, he worked as Legal Assistant to the Chancellor, University Counsel, and faculty member at Elizabeth City State University, and later established a private law practice.
In 1993, Davis graduated magna cum laude with a Master of Divinity from Virginia Union University’s School of Theology, solidifying his theological foundation for ministry.
Davis’s influence extends throughout the regional Baptist community. He has held numerous leadership positions, including Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Roanoke Baptist Association, Chairman of the Ordination Council, and Moderator of the Roanoke Baptist Association. His service has also included roles on the General Board of the General Baptist State Convention of North Carolina and as Attorney and Board Member for the National Baptist Convention USA, Inc.
Beyond ecclesiastical circles, Davis has contributed to civic life through service on the Albemarle District Jail Commission and as a board member of the Boys Club & Girls Club, and Elizabeth City State University.
Other events in the region
The Chowan County celebration joins a chorus of MLK Day events across North Carolina. Throughout the state, communities are gathering to reflect on Dr. King’s message of justice, equality, and nonviolent social change.
In Hyde County, the Equity Advisory Council cancelled the MLK Celebration at 9 a.m. Jan. 19 at Swan Quarter Volunteer Fire Department’s House 2 (also known as Lake Comfort Sub Station), 149 NC Hwy 94, Swan Quarter.
In Williamston, Bishop Darren Whitehurst will be the guest speaker at the 38th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Observance on Jan. 19. The event will start at noon and will be held at Mount Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, 205 N. Elm St., Williamston. The theme is “Keeping the Dream Alive.”
The Concerned Citizens of Tyrrell County will host their 31st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the Tyrrell County Courthouse in Columbia. The commemoration, themed “The Dream Lives On – Together We Rise,” will begin with a symbolic march from the courthouse to the Madge VanHorn Auditorium, where attendees will gather for a program honoring King’s legacy. Following the ceremony, participants are invited to Hill’s Game Room at 410 Railroad Street for a community meal. In the event of inclement weather, the celebration will proceed directly to the auditorium. The event is free and open to the public, and those with questions may call 252-796-0964 for more information.
Across northeastern North Carolina and beyond, the day has become not just a holiday but a call to service. Many communities are embracing MLK Day as a “Day On, Not a Day Off,” organizing volunteer projects, food drives, and community service initiatives that embody Dr. King’s commitment to lifting up the marginalized and building beloved community.
To add a MLK Day event to this story or our calendar of events, email albemarle.observer@gmail.com.
