Bishop Laura Merrill has announced her intention to appoint Rev. Davida “DeeDee” M. Autry as Superintendent of the proposed South District of the Arkansas Conference beginning July 1, 2024. Autry is currently serving as executive pastor of First United Methodist Church in Fort Smith.
Rev. Autry has served as full-time clergy in the Arkansas Conference since 1992 and was ordained an elder in 1995. She has been a member of the Board of Ordained Ministry for 12 years and has served as dean of the Local Pastor Licensing School. Her education includes a BA in Religion, Philosophy, and Christian Education from the University of the Ozarks in Clarksville, AR, and a Master of Divinity from Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. Autry also earned a Certified Credential from the International Coaching Federation as a Professional Certified Coach.
“My greatest passion in ministry is to see people come alive in their ministry; to equip, encourage, network, and resource so that the opportunity is given for believers and non-believers to tap into their greatest God-given potential,” shared Autry. “I look forward to employing my experience in this new role to strengthen and encourage the people of our churches and communities. I am glad for this opportunity to serve southern Arkansas.”
Bishop Laura Merrill added, “I am grateful for the gifts and skills that Rev. DeeDee Autry will bring to the work of the Cabinet. She will serve the South District of the Arkansas Conference with wisdom, compassion, and a spirit of joy and possibility.”
Rev. Autry is married to John Autry, and they have two daughters, Emily Grace and Mary Elizabeth. She enjoys traveling, spending time with her family and friends, cooking, entertaining, and listening to live music. She and John are avid Razorback sports fans.