MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A Memphis community is mourning the loss of Pastor Ricky Floyd of The Pursuit of God Church after he was tragically shot and killed outside of a south Memphis bar early Wednesday morning. 

The church community describes Floyd as an innovator who leaves behind a legacy of hard work.

Reverand Doctor Bill Adkins of Greater Imani Church says he was devastated when he heard the news. Adkins has known Floyd since 1990.

According to Adkins, he and Floyd saved souls through countless mentorship programs. He said that Floyd talked gang members into dropping their colors and coming to Christ.

While Floyd knew the risks and dangers of spreading the gospel to high crime areas, but that didn’t stop him.

“Certainly, it was more than just a shock. I was devastated by the news. I considered him a son in the ministry, a person that’s been close to me for over 30 years and, me, my wife, my family and my church family, and we all got hurt because he was so close to all of us and especially think about his wife, Sheila, his children. It’s just devastating to us to have lost him like this,” said Adkins.

Adkins said that Floyd’s efforts will be remembered by the communities he served, and those who fight hardest against gun violence unfortunately become victims.

He said Wednesday night’s Bible study live stream at 6:30 will be dedicated to the life and legacy of Floyd.

County Commissioner Charlie Caswell said Floyd was his pastor and his friend, and he recently rejoined Floyd’s church. He saw Floyd yesterday, when Floyd attended a district meeting in his neighborhood.

“It was pastor Ricky Floyd, 23 years ago, that saw something in me when he became my pastor, that most people would’ve given up on me for,” Caswell said. “When I think of the impact on this city, this long outlives what were hearing today of Ricky Floyd.”

Members of The Pursuit of God Church in Frayser say he was more than a pastor. They say he was a man dedicated to his faith who left behind a legacy of love that will impact many for years to come.

“They helped me. They guided me and showed me the way. He was a good person. He was a good person,” Carolyn Settles, church member.

“I did a whole 360 and when I joined this church I never looked back. I never looked back. I’m here every Sunday,” said Settles.

Terrence “T.B.” Boyce hosted a Fire Proof Open Gym in remembrance of the late pastor. High school boys gathered to pray, reflect, and share their testimonies

Some say while Floyd knew the risks and dangers of trying to reach people in high crime areas, it didn’t stop him from continuing the mission of spreading the gospel.