Edgefield’s Dr. Willie Campbell: From Social Worker and Mayor to Pastor and Board Member
Dr. Willie Campbell, a revered community leader and advocate, is said to embody the principles of civility and humility. Born and raised in Johnston, S.C., the Peach Capital of the World, his life story is one of resilience, service and faith. As a prominent figure on the Edgefield County School District Board of Trustees and former mayor of Johnston, Campbell’s journey suggests the values he holds dear — respect for others, equality and an unwavering moral compass.
Campbell’s perspective on life has been shaped profoundly by his upbringing. Raised by a mother and grandmother who were hardworking women, he learned the importance of respect and honor at an early age. His family instilled in him a strong work ethic and a commitment to treating everyone with dignity — values which would later define his leadership style.
“Growing up, we were taught that you do the job you’re asked to do without complaint, and you do it with a smile,” Campbell said. “We were raised to respect people, no matter their background or beliefs.”
Campbell’s childhood was also shaped by the harsh realities of segregation. He recalls a time when Black people had to remain at the bottom steps when visiting white homes and were often followed around in stores. Experiences like these left lasting scars, yet Campbell’s response to them has always been one of dignity and restraint.
“Growing up during that time was devastating,” he said, but he continues to emphasize the importance of maintaining composure in the face of adversity. His ability to stay composed, even in the most uncomfortable situations, became a defining trait in his later career.
Despite these setbacks, Campbell’s commitment to service never wavered. His history-making tenure as Johnston’s first African American mayor was not born out of a desire for personal gain but from a genuine need to advocate for all people. Reflecting on his decision to run, he shares his mother once asked him, “Are you running for mayor because you are Black, or are you running for all people?”
“I was running for equality for all people,” he said.
Through his work, he sought to lead with humility and faith, facing many challenges with the understanding that prayer and God’s guidance would see him through.
Campbell’s leadership philosophy is grounded in the belief it is always better to lead with a solid moral compass and walk with humility. Drawing inspiration from 1 Peter 5:5, he stresses the importance of being humble and submissive to one another.
“God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble,” he said.
For Campbell, this passage reminds him to serve others with compassion and to encourage others to be their best selves, even when faced with personal challenges.
One of Campbell’s most enduring roles has been his service on the Edgefield County School District Board of Trustees. Motivated by encouragement from local teachers and the influence he had on students and their families, Campbell is passionate about improving public education and ensuring every child receives the guidance and support they deserve. In his work, he emphasizes the importance of respect, love and genuine care for students. His commitment to fostering a positive and respectful environment for all students stems from the same values he learned as a child.
“We must demonstrate true love and respect for the people we serve,” said Dr. Campbell.
Throughout his journey, Campbell’s family has been his pillar of support. His wife, children and siblings have stood by him through thick and thin, offering prayers and encouragement along the way.
Today, as the Pastor of Grace Deliverance, Campbell continues to serve his community, bringing people together through faith and understanding. His experience in the Department of Social Services has taught him the importance of empathy and listening, skills he applies in his current work as both a pastor and community leader.
“Hurt people hurt people,” he said, “but through love and understanding, we can bring people through their pain.”
As Campbell ponders his future, his aspirations remain rooted in community. He hopes to continue raising awareness about the needs of local cities and schools, ensuring children see role models who look like them and who have succeeded against the odds. His vision for the future is one of unity, where people of all backgrounds can come together and achieve remarkable things under God’s guidance.