ALLEN, Ky. (WSAZ) -- A two vehicle accident has taken the life of a long time minister in Paintsville, who just retired this year.

It happened on U.S. 23 near Allen in Floyd County, where 81-year-old John R. Pelphrey lived.

Kentucky State Police say Pelphrey was killed after he attempted to pull across the south bound lanes and was hit by another vehicle.

The drivers of both vehicles were wearing their seat belts.

Pelphrey was a preacher for 65 years of his life He was the pastor at Paintsville United Baptist Church from 1981 until just a few months ago.

Chris Rowland, who is the current pastor, says, "His preaching, it seems like, was really the best I had heard him in twelve years. And that's what he was known for, that's what he lived his life for, was preaching God's word."

Members of the church say Pelphrey served his community well. Senior Deacon Bill Johnson says, "He helped the church by going, and visiting. He visited the sick. He was very good about that till his health failed him and he couldn't do it."

Deacon Johnson says anywhere you went, people knew John R. Pelphrey. "People respected him, and they wanted to be where he was at. We got a lot of members because of John being John Pelphrey," he says.

Johnson says it's fortunate that just a couple of weeks ago the church had a special service to honor Pelphrey and his years of commitment to the church.