Stephen Judd, born in Tupelo, Mississippi, in 1953, spent his formative years in Portland, Oregon, and St. Louis, Missouri. He graduated from Gateway College of Evangelism with a focus on ministry and theological studies and also pursued studies at Portland State University, St. Louis University, and Arkansas State University. After completing his education, he entered full-time ministry, serving as a pastoral assistant in Portland, Oregon, and DeRidder, Louisiana.
For over 53 years, Stephen has been an ordained minister with the United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI). He dedicated eight years to the organization’s Youth Ministries as Director of Promotions and General Youth Secretary, leading impactful programs such as Bible Quizzing, International Youth Corps, Youth Leadership Training, and the North American Youth Congress.
In 1985, Stephen became pastor of the First Pentecostal Church in Jonesboro, Arkansas, where he served for 16 years. During this tenure, he founded the local police department’s chaplaincy program, contributed to the establishment and promotion of UPCI Compassion Services International, and served as Secretary of the A-Team, an African foreign missions initiative designed to engage pastors in overseas missions.
In 2001, Stephen was called back to Tupelo, Mississippi, where he devoted 23 years as President and CEO of Tupelo Children’s Mansion—the largest children’s home in Mississippi and one of the most beloved and respected institutions of its kind in North America. After retiring from this role in October 2024, he continues to serve as an honorary member of the TCM Board of Directors.
Stephen and his beloved wife of 51 years, Erma, now reside in Prosper, Texas, a vibrant suburb of Dallas. They enjoy being close to their family, which includes their two married daughters, Tamisha Utermark (married to Chad) and Tamara Sanders (married to Ben), as well as their five cherished grandchildren, ranging in age from 10 to 21.
Stephen enjoys playing golf whenever time allows and remains deeply engaged in ministry. He continues to preach, write, consult on fundraising efforts, develop leaders, and passionately advocate for charitable causes.