House Resolution 2004
By: Representatives Clark of the 108th, McClain of the 109th, Beckles of the 96th, Adeyina
of the 110th, and Okoye of the 102nd
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing and commending Reverend Dr. Richard B. Haynes and celebrating his
retirement on April 11, 2026; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, Reverend Haynes has long been recognized by members of the community and
congregation for having outstanding leadership, unwavering faith, and dedicated service to
the ministry; and
WHEREAS, Pastor Haynes has faithfully served as a pastor of Salem Missionary Baptist
Church, located in Lilburn, Gwinnett County, Georgia, for 38 years; and
WHEREAS, a place of rest, refuge, and worship, Salem Missionary Baptist Church is
recognized as one of the oldest and largest African American congregations in Gwinnett
County; and
WHEREAS, during his tenure, Reverend Haynes led numerous impactful initiatives,
including growing Salem Missionary Baptist from fewer than 100 members to now having
over 4,500 members, with 40 Associates Ministers, and equally as many auxiliaries; and
WHEREAS, in creating the Salem Missionary Baptist Church, School of Ministry, Reverend
Haynes developed curriculum designed to firmly set individuals on a lifelong journey to
serve the Kingdom of God; and
WHEREAS, under his leadership, Salem Missionary Baptist became a pillar in the
community, fostering spiritual growth, community engagement, and service; and
WHEREAS, Reverend Haynes has provided guidance, counseling, and support to countless
individuals and families, strengthening both the congregation and the broader community
throughout Lilburn, Gwinnett County, Georgia; and
WHEREAS, his legacy of faith, leadership, and service has left an indelible mark on the lives
of many and will continue to inspire generations to come; and
WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the outstanding accomplishments of this
distinguished Georgia be appropriately recognized.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that
the members of this body commend Reverend Dr. Richard B. Haynes for giving the city of
Lilburn 38 years of faithful and dedicated service and extend their sincerest congratulations
upon the occasion of his retirement.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized
and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to
Reverend Dr. Richard B. Haynes.