Rev. Wiley Drake, a longtime California pastor known nationally for championing the Southern Baptist boycott of Disney in the 1990s and for his outspoken presence at annual denominational meetings, has died at the age of 82.
Drake served for decades as pastor of First Southern Baptist Church, located just minutes from Disneyland in Buena Park, California. His ministry placed him at the center of one of the most visible culture-clash moments in modern evangelical history.
Architect of the Disney Boycott
In 1996, Drake authored and promoted a resolution calling on the Southern Baptist Convention to boycott The Walt Disney Company, citing concerns over what he and others described as anti-Christian and anti-family corporate policies. The resolution gained traction among convention messengers and was formally adopted in 1997.
The boycott became a defining issue within the SBC during the late 1990s and early 2000s, symbolizing broader debates about faith, media influence, and public morality. Though the boycott was officially lifted in 2005, Drake remained closely associated with the effort and its legacy.
A Grassroots Voice in the SBC
Drake was a frequent and often fiery messenger at SBC annual meetings, known for stepping to microphones to introduce motions or voice strong opinions on matters of doctrine, culture, and politics. Supporters described him as bold and unafraid to challenge prevailing currents. Critics viewed him as controversial and polarizing.
His influence extended beyond denominational politics. Drake also operated outreach ministries through his church, including feeding and housing initiatives for the homeless-efforts that at times led to legal conflicts with city authorities over zoning and building codes.
Political Involvement and Public Controversy
In addition to his pastoral work, Drake ventured into politics. He ran for public office and was involved in third-party political efforts, bringing his outspoken conservative convictions into the broader public square.
Over the years, Drake drew media attention for imprecatory prayers and strong statements directed at public figures, which intensified his reputation as one of the more controversial pastors within the SBC orbit.
A Complex Legacy
Wiley Drake leaves behind a complicated and deeply felt legacy within Southern Baptist life. To some, he represented a grassroots defender of biblical conviction during a turbulent cultural era. To others, he embodied the sharp edge of culture-war Christianity in late 20th-century America.
He is remembered as a pastor who believed the church should not remain silent in the face of cultural change-whether from a pulpit in Buena Park or from the convention floor before thousands of Southern Baptists.
Drake is survived by his family and members of the congregation he shepherded for many years.
Further details regarding memorial services have not yet been publicly announced.
