October 2, 2026
CLEVELAND, Ga. — Truett McConnell University dedicated the Danny Watters Cottage, a peaceful, mountain-side retreat designed to serve pastors and those in vocational ministry, on Monday, July 21. This private, quaint two-bedroom cottage provides a place of rest, reflection, and renewal, where ministers and their families can retreat from the pressures of full-time ministry at no cost and recharge.
This special retreat was named in honor of Rev. Danny E. Watters for his faithful service to the Church Ministry Relations Department of the Georgia Baptist Convention, where he ministered to hurting pastors and churches across the state.
“Danny was a dear friend of mine,” said Dr. John Yarbrough, Acting President at Truett McConnell University. “Danny Watters was a long-time pastor in Georgia, and toward the end of his life, he served as Director of Church Minister Relations for the Georgia Baptist Convention. At the GBC, he ministered to hurting pastors and churches, which was a lifelong passion of his.”
The cottage is adjacent to the TMU campus, allowing guests access to on-campus dining, the Student Wellness Center, and TMU athletic and cultural events, also at no cost. “The purpose of the DWC is to provide a restful getaway for hurting pastors and their families,” Dr. Yarbrough added. “It’s a way to continue Danny’s ministry and legacy for years to come.”
As she viewed the cottage for the first time, Mrs. Becky Watters, Danny’s wife, shared heartfelt reflections on the dedication. “This is such a wonderful way to honor his legacy. Danny invested in so many ministers’ lives as he loved and prayed for them continuously. His heart was truly a pastor’s heart. We hope that this cottage is a shelter in times of storms, just as Danny’s ministry was for so many people. Our prayer is that this will provide a place of healing and hope so pastors can continue in their God-called ministries.”
The retreat became a reality thanks to the generosity of 123 donors who raised significant funds since the campaign's original launch in 2018. TMU is especially grateful for Dr. David Drake’s leadership in spearheading the campaign.
Danny Watters was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and a faithful friend to both Georgia and Southern Baptist pastors and churches. His legacy of compassion and care lives on through this gift to the ministerial community.
Approximately 35 guests attended the dedication, including Mrs. Becky Watters and many other family members. In addition to Danny’s family, pastors, donors, and several TMU trustees were present to honor his legacy and celebrate the opening of a space that will offer encouragement and renewal for years to come.
Pastors in need of rest or support may email dwcottage@truett.edu. You’ll receive a form to complete and return. All bookings and questions will be handled through this email.
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