In this deeply personal episode of the Thrive Podcast, Dr. Don Immel sits down with Pastor Ted Williams of Tri County Assembly of God to talk about ministry, grief, faith, and the hope found in Jesus Christ.

Pastor Ted reflects on nearly 50 years of ministry before sharing the story of his son, Pastor Eric Williams, who faithfully served a congregation in Garden Grove, California. In October 2025, Eric’s life was tragically cut short while cycling, leaving behind his wife, four children, and countless lives he had impacted through his faithful ministry.

Rather than offering easy answers, Pastor Ted shares the questions he wrestled with, the comfort he found in Christ’s suffering and resurrection, and how the gospel became more than a message he preached. It became the foundation that carried him through unimaginable loss.

This conversation is a reminder that grief and hope can exist together, that God remains faithful in life’s darkest moments, and that even through suffering, He is able to bring purpose, strength, and lasting hope.

Listener note: This episode includes themes of grief, sudden loss, and a brief mention of suicide.