Comp on Avenue Church of Christ

Anthony W. Stokes Sr. was born on September 2, 1961 in Waco, Texas. His family moved to Los Angeles and located in the Watts area when he was one years old. They lived in a public housing complex, named Nickerson Gardens. It was a tough neighborhood, fondly called “The Nickersons.”
 
At the age of thirteen, his family moved to Compton, California, which was a major change for the future of his life. There he met the Hagood Family, who had a tremendous impact on his life. He met them during his eight-grade year in junior high school. Sister Irene Hagood became his teacher, and spiritual matriarch. Under her guidance and tutelage, his life was changed. Her son, Fate Hagood became his role model and lifelong friend, which led him to giving his life to God.
 
He began his ministerial journey at the Bay Area School of Religion in Pleasanton, Ca. There he took a strong interest in the languages of the Bible, Koine Greek, and Hebrew. After returning home Bro Hogan, the minister of the Figueroa congregation, suggested that he attend Southwestern Christian College in Terrell, Tx. Because of his encouragement he enrolled, Bro Hogan actually sponsored his first year at SWCC. In 1986, Anthony graduated valedictorian of his class, and later was honored with the Outstanding Young Men of America Award.
 
Bro. Stokes would continue his education and received his Masters of Arts degree from Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA.
 
Anthony is married to Kimberly Michelle, and they have two sons, Anthony II and Aaron, and an adopted son Jabbarri. Bro Stokes has been ministering for more than 36 years.