Rev. Dr. Steven N. Dial, Sr.

Rev. Dr. Steven N. Dial Sr., a beacon of light and love, was born on June 20, 1964, in Bessemer, Alabama, the youngest of six to the late Rev. Clifton Dial Sr. and Idella T. Dial. He entered eternal rest on August 16, 2023, leaving behind a legacy etched in compassion and service. A proud graduate of Alabama A & M University Rev. Dr. Dial received a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance in 1987. While at Alabama A&M University Rev. Dr. Dial became a Spring 1985 member of the Nu Epsilon chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. Rev. Dr. Dial’s hunger for knowledge led him to attain a Master of Arts in Ministry from Luther Rice College and Seminary in 2006. Always seeking to reach the pinnacle of his endeavors, Rev. Dr. Dial received a Doctorate in Ministry from the Birmingham Theological Seminary in 2018.

On August 22, 1986, Rev. Dr. Dial married the love of his life and college sweetheart Robin. Through this union of 36 years God blessed them with two sons: Steven II and Micah. Rev. Dr. Dial proudly served his country as a commissioned officer in the United States Army from 1988 - 1991 at Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina achieving the rank of Captain. In 1991, Rev. Dr. Dial and his young family moved to Atlanta, GA where he worked in corporate America as an insurance salesman with the Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company and later as a corporate level manager of a Krystal's Restaurant Company.

Rev. Dr. Dial’s passion for young people began as a kindergarten & first grade teacher at the Greenforest McCalep Christian Academic Center. During his tenure Dr. Dial taught comparative religion courses to high school students. Rev. Dr. Dial also coached winning basketball teams and founded the famous National Christian Bible Bowl. Answering the call of God Dr. Dial was licensed as a Minister in 1998 at Greenforest Community Baptist Church in Decatur, GA. Dr. Dial was then called to Clarkston Baptist Church as the Minister of Students & Missions. In 1999, he returned to “The Forest” and was ordained in by his spiritual father the late Rev. Dr. George O. McCalep Jr. Rev. Dr. Dial nurtured the hearts of the youth and young adults for eight impactful years.

In 2007, he assumed the role as the first African American Pastor of Rainbow Park Baptist Church, marking the dawn of a transformative era. Dr. Dial’s leadership transcended the pulpit, becoming a cornerstone of the Metro Atlanta community. His ministry was not confined to words but manifested in actions that tackled adversity head-on. From empowering youths on a voyage to Ghana in 2003 to founding a free Adult Literacy program in 2009, his compassionate influence was evident. The Park flourished under his stewardship, providing food and clothing to more than 1,000 individuals monthly.

In honor of his late father, Rev. Dr. Dial established The Rev. Clifton Dial Sr. Scholarship Foundation, propelling over 250 students to attain their GED and reach for the stars. As a founding force behind the DeKalb Christian Pastors Alliance, his influence radiated in the realms of politics, education, justice, and well-being. Rev. Dr. Dial forged alliances that echoed his commitment to unity. The Rainbow Park Literacy Ministry earned recognition as a Certified Community Based Organization, a testament to his collaboration with esteemed institutions. He stood hand in hand with the NAACP where he served on the Executive Committee from 2020-2023, advocating for voter registration and inspiring countless young minds to chase their dreams.

Rev. Dr. Steven N. Dial, Sr., leaves to cherish his legacy of faith, hope, and love; a loving wife Robin; his sons, Steven II and Micah.