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WPAQ 740 AM 106.7 FM The Voice of the Blue Ridge

2 days ago

For many in the Mount Airy area, the day often began with a familiar, steady voice on the radio—one that carried encouragement, wisdom, and the message of the Gospel. For a remarkable 25 years, Rev. Gene Brinkley shared that voice across the airwaves of WPAQ and WSYD through a simple but powerful program called The Thought for the Day.
Each broadcast was brief, but its impact was lasting. With warmth and sincerity, Rev. Brinkley opened scripture, shared reflections on faith, and reminded listeners of the hope and grace found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. His words reached kitchens at breakfast tables, farmers heading to the fields, workers on their morning commute, and countless others who paused for just a moment to hear a message that lifted the spirit.

Beyond The Thought for the Day, Rev. Brinkley also faithfully offered devotions over WPAQ on behalf of the Mount Airy Ministerial Association, helping unite the community in prayer and reflection. Through those daily moments on the radio, he built a quiet but meaningful ministry—one that crossed church walls and denominations and reached into homes throughout the region.

Rev. Gene Brinkley understood the power of a few thoughtful minutes. In a busy world, he offered listeners a pause… a reminder of faith, kindness, and the enduring love of Christ.

Today, many still remember those broadcasts and the gentle encouragement they carried. His voice may no longer greet the morning airwaves, but the message he shared—and the lives he touched—continue to echo in the hearts of those who listened.

For a quarter century, Rev. Gene Brinkley faithfully sowed seeds of faith across the radio dial. And for countless listeners, those daily “Thoughts for the Day” became something far greater—a source of comfort, guidance, and a reminder that each new day begins with hope.

Pastor Eugene Roosevelt Brinkley
Pastor Eugene Roosevelt “Gene” Brinkley, 87, of Mount Airy, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, March 15, 2026, surrounded by his wife and three daughters. Gene was born December 13, 1938, in Richmond, VA, one of seven children born to the late Coley Roosevelt and Beulah Irene Jessup Brinkley. Pastor Gene faithfully served the Lord in ministry for more than 50 years, shepherding several churches and touching countless lives through his preaching, prayer, and love for his congregation. He will be remembered for his steadfast faith and devotion to God’s call. Though he will be greatly missed, we rejoice in the promise that he has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Gene lived his life by the words found in Proverbs 3:5-7: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.” For 25 years, he also shared the message of the gospel through a radio ministry broadcast on WSYD and WPAQ, extending his pastoral heart to listeners throughout the community. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Rhonda Ashburn Brinkley; three daughters and sons-in-law, Miriam and Brian Goff, Rebekah and Pastor Wes Mosteller, and Candace and Michael Needham; his grandchildren, Elijah Mosteller, Abigail and C.J. Clayton, Alex Goff, Emma Goff, Luke and Lexi Needham, Andrew Needham, and Madeline Needham; a great-grandchild, Ella Needham; a sister and brother-in-law, Sue and Billy Cook; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Dan and Shirley Brinkley and Stanley and Carolyn Brinkley; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Pastor Brinkley was preceded in death by two sisters, Joyce Perryman and Julia Vipperman; and a brother, Robert Brinkley. A service of worship and celebration of Gene’s life will be held Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 2:00 PM at The Peoples Church, with Pastor Wes Mosteller officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday, March 20, 2026, from 6:00 until 8:00 PM at Moody Funeral Home in Mount Airy, where his body will remain until carried to the church to lie-in-state 30 minutes before the funeral service. ... See MoreSee Less