2026 OCAAHS Eclipse Awardee, Rev. Robert T. Anthony, Sr.

Reverend Robert T. Anthony, Sr. has devoted his life to faith, family, ministry, and service to the Orange County community. Born in Newark, New Jersey, to the late George and Charlotte Anthony, he moved to Orange County during childhood and has called Barboursville home ever since. He is married to Sarah Carey Anthony and is the proud father of three children and grandfather of eight.

Reverend Anthony’s spiritual foundation began at Blue Run Baptist Church, where he was baptized at age 12. A graduate of Orange County High School, he continued his education at Piedmont Community College and Liberty University’s Bible Institute. He completed Evangelical Training Courses through the Main Uno Baptist Bible Institute.

Throughout his Christian journey, Reverend Anthony has served as Youth Leader, Sunday School Teacher, Deacon, Trustee, and choir member. He joined Chestnut Grove Baptist Church in 1999, answered the call to preach in 2004, became Pastor of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church in 2014, and Pastor of Blue Run Baptist Church in 2018.

His commitment to service extends beyond the church. Reverend Anthony served as President of the Barboursville Park Association and has been involved with the Orange County Branch of the NAACP. He also served on the Board of Directors of the Orange County African American Historical Society as Treasurer, helping preserve and celebrate local African American history and heritage.

His faith, leadership, civic engagement, and dedication to uplifting others embody the spirit of the Eclipse Award and reflect a lasting legacy of service to Orange County. His guiding belief remains, “Prayer is the key, and faith unlocks the door.”