Rev. Dr. W. D. McClung, II
Rev. Dr. W. D. McClung—Willie David McClung, II—serves as Senior Pastor of Holt Street Memorial Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. Known to his congregation as “Pastor D,” he preaches with a practical, insightful, and charismatic style. His ministry continues a legacy of faith that began with his father, Rev. Willie D. McClung, Sr., Ph.D., Chairman of the Board of the Holt Street Baptist Church Historical Society.
Early Life and Family Legacy
Willie David McClung, II was born in Birmingham, Alabama. He is the eldest child of Rev. Willie D. McClung, Sr., Ph.D., and Mrs. Mary Jean McClung. His father served as Pastor and Church Visionary; his mother worked as an educator. Both parents became outstanding leaders in their community. Dr. McClung, II credits them as the source of his integrity, discipline, and self-reliance.
Education and Ministry Preparation
Rev. Dr. W. D. McClung earned his Bachelor of Science from Miles College. He then completed a Master of Business Administration at Samford University and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management at Capella University. He furthered his theological training with a Master of Arts in Theological Studies and a Doctor of Ministry, both from Liberty University. This combination of business, nonprofit, and theological education shapes a ministry that is as thoughtful in its administration as it is in its preaching.
Leading Holt Street Memorial Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. W. D. McClung now serves as Senior Pastor of Holt Street Memorial Baptist Church. His father, Rev. McClung, Sr., ordained him into this role—continuing a legacy of spiritual leadership across two generations. Psalm 18:46 captures the heart of his ministry: “The LORD liveth; and blessed be my rock; and let the Lord of my salvation be exalted.” Dr. McClung, II dedicates his preaching to exalting the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and to shepherding God’s flock with clarity and compassion. Before returning to Holt Street, he pastored Emmaus Missionary Baptist Church in Owings Mills, Maryland, for 18 years.
Preserving History
Rev. Dr. W. D. McClung also serves as Executive Director of the Holt Street Baptist Church Historical Society. In this role, he helps advance the mission of the Holt Street Baptist Church Civil Rights Museum, working alongside his father to preserve the site’s legacy for future generations. He additionally sits on several nonprofit boards, extending his commitment to community service beyond the church.
Public Service and Professional Life
Beyond his pastoral duties, Rev. Dr. W. D. McClung, II works as a Senior Social Insurance Specialist with the Social Security Administration’s Office of Legislation and Congressional Affairs. He previously served as a Brookings Institution Legis Congressional Fellow. He is also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.—a record of public service that reflects the same dedication he brings to the pulpit.
Rev. Dr. W. D. McClung’s Family Life
Dr. McClung, II is married to Dr. Maria Antoinette Larkin. Together, they are the parents of five children and proud grandparents of eight. He considers his family life central to his calling, shaping how he leads Holt Street Memorial Baptist Church today.
