Longtime Southern Baptist education leader Arthur L. Walker Jr., 78, died early Jan. 14 in Birmingham, Ala.

Walker served as executive director of two SBC entities - the Education Commission and the Commission on the American Baptist Theological Seminary. He held both posts from 1978 until his retirement in 1993.

Following his retirement, Walker taught part-time at Samford University for several years.

Walker is survived by his wife, Gladys; a daughter, Marcia Walker Hamby, director of counseling services at Samford; and three grandchildren.

 

Jim Carter, vice president of the finance and business services division of LifeWay Christian Resources, has announced his retirement effective June 30.

Carter is LifeWay's chief financial officer and treasurer and directs the finance and business services division, which includes finance and accounting, human resources, legal services, investment services, purchasing, facility and risk management and strategic planning.

 

Harold Songer, professor of New Testament interpretation at Southern Seminary from 1962-92, died Jan. 23 in Louisville, Ky., at the age of 77.

Songer, who also served the seminary as vice president for academic affairs, was perhaps best known for his work in New Testament scholarship. He published numerous works in the field, including the volume on James in the Broadman Bible Commentary series.

Born in Miami, Songer was a two-time graduate of Southern Seminary, receiving his Ph.D. and master of divinity from the Louisville seminary. He was also a World War II Coast Guard veteran.

Songer is survived by his wife, Florence Rains Songer, and a son, Christopher Songer.