Rev. Wellington Breeden

In Loving Memory of Wellington Breeden, Jr.

May 7, 1945 – June 21, 2025

The journey of life carries us through many seasons—birth, growth, discovery, service, and ultimately peace. For Wellington Breeden, Jr., that journey began on May 7, 1945, in Scotland County, North Carolina, as the beloved son of the late Wellington Breeden and Minnie McLean Breeden.

Wellington gave his life to Christ at an early age, joining First Baptist Church in St. Pauls, NC. His spiritual walk continued throughout his life, and at the time of his passing, he was a devoted member of Sweet Home Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas. He studied at Shaw University Divinity School in Raleigh, NC, and was later ordained as a minister. He shared his faith widely—preaching in churches across Texas, holding revivals at Star of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Laurinburg, NC, and serving as a member of the church’s Ministerial Staff, Male Chorus, and the Ministers Against Crime Organization.

A 1964 graduate of St. Pauls High School, Wellington enlisted in the United States Air Force the same year, earning numerous awards for meritorious service. After his military service, he returned to Shaw University to complete a degree in Business Administration.

His professional journey was one of deep service and dedication. He worked with the North Carolina Department of Corrections before relocating to Texas, where he began a long tenure with American Airlines. Simultaneously, he served his community as a Master Embalmer, a role in which he was highly respected and frequently sought after. Wellington also spent more than 20 years in the insurance industry, helping families with health, burial, and life insurance needs—continuing to serve others until his health declined.

On June 21, 2025, Wellington completed his earthly journey and peacefully entered eternal rest. As an heir of faith, he reached out and touched the face of God.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and faith in the hearts of those who knew him: His loving wife, Annett Locklear Breeden; His children: Inah Breeden (Burlington, NC), Demetress Breeden (Roxboro,NC), and Michale Breeden (Lumberton, NC); Stepchildren: Britnay McCoy (St. Pauls, NC), Anthony McCoy (El Paso, TX), and McCoy (Jay) Stephens (St. Pauls, NC); Grandchildren and great-grandchildren: four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren;Sisters: Bezarah Breeden Gaither (Garner, NC) and Hazel Breeden Yelverton (Clayton, NC); Brother-in-law: Glenn Miller (Plano, TX); Aunt: Hazel McLean (Laurinburg, NC); Special nieces and nephews: Angelo Breeden, Jeffrey Breeden, William (Alison) Davies, Robert (Clara) Cox, and Christina (Richard) Freeman; And many cherished cousins and friends, including Ms. Patricia Smith, Griggs and Gloria Owens, and Patrick and Linda Shelby.

He was preceded in death by his siblings: John L. Breeden, Lou Myrte Miller, and Hattie Pearl Breeden.

Wellington’s life was a testament to faith, dedication, and compassion. His memory will live on in the many lives he touched through ministry, service, and love.