Derwin L. Gray is a respected American pastor, author, and former NFL player who has made a significant impact in both sports and Christian ministry. He is widely recognized as the founding and lead pastor of Transformation Church, a multi-ethnic, multi-generational congregation based in South Carolina. Beyond the pulpit, Gray is also an accomplished writer and speaker whose works inspire believers around the world.
Quick Facts about Derwin L. Gray
| Full Name | Derwin L. Gray |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 9, 1971 |
| Place of Birth | San Antonio, Texas, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Pastor, Author, Former NFL Player |
| Church | Transformation Church, South Carolina |
| Spouse | Vicki Gray |
| Children | Two |
Early Life and Age
Derwin L. Gray was born on April 9, 1971, in San Antonio, Texas. Growing up, he faced challenges that shaped his worldview and faith journey. Raised in a tough environment, Gray turned to sports, particularly football, as a way out. His early years were marked by determination and discipline, traits that later carried into both his professional football career and ministry work.
As of 2025, Derwin L. Gray is 54 years old and continues to lead with passion, purpose, and a commitment to faith-driven service.
Dr. Derwin L. Gray and Vicki Gray are the co-founders of Transformation Church (TC), in Indian Land, South Carolina (just outside of Charlotte, NC) where he serves as Lead Pastor and she serves as Executive Director of Spiritual Formation and Staff Health. Dr. Derwin and Vicki met at Brigham Young University where he played football and she threw the javelin on the track team. They have been married since 1992 and have two adult children.
After graduating from BYU, Pastor Derwin played professional football in the NFL—five years with the Indianapolis Colts (1993–1997) and one year with the Carolina Panthers (1998). During that time, he and Vicki began their journey with Christ and experienced God’s faithfulness and direction as He moved their hearts to know Him and make Him known.
Pastor Derwin went on to graduate magna cum laude from Southern Evangelical Seminary with a Master of Divinity degree with a concentration in Apologetics. He was mentored by renowned theologian and philosopher, Dr. Norman Geisler. In 2015, he was awarded an honorary doctorate from Southern Evangelical Seminary. In 2018, he received his Doctor of Ministry in the New Testament in Context at Northern Seminary under Dr. Scot McKnight.
Vicki has a degree in Clinical Dietetics and International Relations and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Ministry Leadership from Wheaton College Graduate School. She has a passion for spiritual formation and leading out of a relationship with Jesus. Vicki oversees the culture and spiritual formation of the TC staff.
In addition to his role at Transformation Church, Pastor Derwin speaks at conferences nationwide and is the author of several books, including bestseller The Good Life and Building a Multiethnic Church.
Family Life
Derwin L. Gray is happily married to Vicki Gray, his college sweetheart and partner in ministry. Together, they have two children, and their marriage has been a cornerstone of his personal and spiritual life. The couple has often spoken about the importance of family, faith, and building a Christ-centered home.
Family plays a vital role in Gray’s ministry, as he often emphasizes the significance of strong relationships, love, and unity within the family structure.
Career Journey
NFL Career
Before entering full-time ministry, Derwin L. Gray had a successful career as a professional football player. He played defensive back in the NFL for five seasons with the Indianapolis Colts and one season with the Carolina Panthers. His time in professional sports not only gave him recognition but also prepared him for leadership, teamwork, and perseverance.
Call to Ministry
After his football career, Gray felt a strong calling to serve in ministry. He pursued theological education and later co-founded Transformation Church in 2010 with his wife, Vicki. Located in South Carolina, the church quickly grew into one of the most influential multi-ethnic congregations in the United States.
Achievements
Derwin L. Gray’s achievements extend far beyond the NFL and into global ministry:
- Founder and Lead Pastor of Transformation Church, recognized for its diversity and impact.
- Author of multiple books, including The High Definition Leader, Limitless Life, and Building a Multiethnic Church.
- Renowned speaker, often invited to conferences, leadership seminars, and church gatherings worldwide.
- Advocate for racial reconciliation, passionately promoting unity and diversity in the body of Christ.
- Recognized theologian and leader, contributing to discussions on discipleship, leadership, and cultural engagement.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Derwin L. Gray’s estimated net worth is around $2 million – $4 million. His income sources include his pastoral role, book publications, speaking engagements, and past NFL earnings. Unlike many, Gray has used his financial blessings to reinvest into ministry and community development, focusing on building a church that impacts lives beyond its walls.
Legacy and Impact
Derwin L. Gray’s legacy is defined by transformation — both personal and communal. From the NFL to the pulpit, his journey showcases how God can use any platform for His glory. His work in creating a multi-ethnic church model has inspired countless leaders and churches to embrace diversity and unity.
Gray continues to influence through his preaching, writing, and leadership, leaving an indelible mark on Christian ministry and modern church life.
FAQs
In this section, I will provide you with FAQs and answers on Derwin L. Gray Biography. Keep on reading friend.
1. Who is Derwin L. Gray?
Derwin L. Gray is an American pastor, author, speaker, and former NFL player. He is best known as the founding and lead pastor of Transformation Church in South Carolina.
2. How old is Derwin L. Gray?
Derwin L. Gray was born on April 9, 1971. As of 2025, he is 54 years old.
3. Who is Derwin L. Gray’s wife?
He is married to Vicki Gray, and together they have two children.
4. What books has Derwin L. Gray written?
Some of his well-known books include The High Definition Leader, Limitless Life, and Building a Multiethnic Church.
5. What is Derwin L. Gray’s net worth?
Derwin L. Gray’s net worth is estimated between $2 million – $4 million, earned from his pastoral role, book sales, speaking engagements, and former NFL career.
6. What church does Derwin L. Gray pastor?
He is the founding and lead pastor of Transformation Church, a multi-ethnic, multi-generational church based in South Carolina.
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