“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice
hospitality.” Romans 12:12-13
It is no surprise these words of the Apostle Paul to the church have been a significant charge to Carol and Mike Watford as they live a legacy of serving. Throughout their lives, they truly display a hope sealed within them; turning to God for avenues of helping others overcome affliction which has aided in overcoming their own times of affliction. As Carol’s many forms of ministry have taken shape, a deep connection appears – her love of God, family and community. “As a partner, mother of four children and two step-children and grandmother of six, I feel so blessed and at the same time convicted that advocating for those who can’t speak for themselves and helping those who can’t help themselves is a calling on my life. My father was an officer in the Military which had us traveling every year, most times to foreign countries. He instilled in us at a very early age the importance of giving back through service, being humble and staying obedient to God’s Word. My father passed away several years ago, but left behind a legacy of service to others which I only hope that I too, have instilled in my children.” Carol’s college degrees are in Theology and Finance. After a successful career legislating for the rights of children, both domestically and in Africa, Carol turned her time and attention to serving children in our community. “One current avenue of my calling is through my time with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) where I represent abused children in court as a guardian ad litem and as a Legislative Advocate for the rights of children at the State Capital.” Carol also serves on the Board of CASA Montgomery County and Angel Reach, an organization that helps homeless youth and youth who have aged out of foster care.
Like Carol, Mike grew up in a Military family. With the necessity of relocating frequently, Mike attributes “this reality of not having roots anywhere, to God building a resiliency which would contribute to my focus on improving the elements of stability in life. It was a big deal to be the first one in my family to go to college expressly to obtain a trade and at the University of Florida, I was a 4-year recipient of the General H. Arnold Scholarship, graduating with honors in finance.” After his Bachelors, Mike’s career started with Shell Oil Company and he simultaneously obtained an MBA at the University of New Orleans. Mike humbly explains he was fortunate to work for several oil companies and lead two energy companies. Mike has served as Past Chairman of Independent Producers Association of America, past Director of Bellwether Exploration Co., and Southern Mineral, Inc., past member of National Petroleum Council and America’s Natural Gas Alliance.
“My kids have grown into two really great young adults, and we had started volunteering many years ago through Northwoods Presbyterian Church ministries such as Northwest Assistance Ministries. Unfortunately, my wife Joanne, passed away much earlier than what most of us expect. That changed some directions in life. You think you have more time to do whatever it is you are called to do and then you realize you don’t and have to refocus some of your priorities and understand the importance of continuing to provide the stability of life for those in great need.”
Always willing to share his many blessings, Mike’s philanthropic efforts include many years of tremendous support in the ministry of PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE. He serves as a member of the Advisory Committee and has frequently shared his business acumen and sustaining generosity. Carol and Mike were introduced through family and quickly learned that they shared a passion for philanthropy and for Northwest Assistance Ministries where Carol had also been busy speaking for children’s rights with World Vision in Africa and working with an orphanage and joined the efforts of Mercy Ships in Africa. Mike and Carol have made a big difference at Northwest Assistance Ministries’ Nutrition Center and Training. Mike is also on the board of Boys and Girls Country. Located in Hockley, Texas, the 88 youth are in a ranch setting and Carol assists with mentoring many of the young women. The 8-bedroom Watford Cottage is a new addition for the youth and Carol and Mike often take groups to have their first experiences with snow, white water rafting, horseback riding and fly fishing in Colorado; also munch on “Carol’s big ole s’mores!” Their own growing family is a huge source of joy and all will be coached to give back at every turn in life.
With a stellar legacy of domestic and international business and charity endeavors, Mike and Carol are the 2020 recipients of The Anne and Judge Edward H. “Ted” Patton, Jr. Award. The Patton Family and PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE recognize Carol and Mike Watford’s selfless and humble efforts to make a difference for God’s people, truly providing healing in affliction, now and forever. We thank them eternally on behalf of the many people and communities they have affected – brilliantly illuminating pathways for prayer, spiritual comfort and lives well lived.