Elder Dr. Tracey Gonzales is a dynamic and anointed teacher of the Word, a committed servant-leader, and a powerful woman of faith whose life exemplifies unwavering dedication to God’s Kingdom. Born on August 24 in Eufaula, Alabama to James and Mary Starkes, Dr. Gonzales was raised in Columbus, Georgia where her spiritual roots and thirst for knowledge began to blossom early in life.
Her academic achievements are a testament to her pursuit of excellence and God-given intellect. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Management from Austin Peay State University, a Master of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Religion with Honors from Saint Leo University. Her deep hunger for biblical understanding led her to earn a Doctorate in Biblical Studies from Jacksonville Theological Seminary in 2018. She further strengthened her leadership in ministry by completing the Christian Ministry Leadership Program at Highlands College and received ministerial certificates through Unity Christian Fellowship International.
Dr. Gonzales was licensed to preach in 2017 and ordained in 2019 as a Teacher in the Lord’s Church under the covering of UCFI Ministries, Inc., under the leadership of Apostle Nelson K. Williams. In 2026, she was ordained as an Elder under the covering of Wholistic Life Ministries, led by Pastor Jay Jones. Her call to ministry was birthed and deepened during her military assignment in South Korea, where she began her true walk with the Lord at Camp Walker Gospel Service. There she discovered her voice in worship and her place in ministry leadership, serving faithfully on the Church Staff and in the Music Ministry.
Over her 24-year military career, she carried the light of Christ wherever she was stationed—whether through music, teaching, administration, or serving in church leadership. Her ministry journey has spanned numerous cities and nations, serving in impactful roles including Worship Leader, Youth Choir Director, Singles Ministry Leader, Bible Study Teacher, Church Secretary, and Executive Administrator. Notably, she ministered in music alongside gospel greats such as Ron Henry, Keith Dobbins, and Earl Bynum, contributing to ministries like Virginia Mass Choir and Without Walls International Church.
A natural intercessor and teacher, Elder Gonzales has a prophetic grace for equipping the body of Christ through teaching and discipleship. She is passionate about developing spiritual maturity in believers and igniting a hunger for God’s Word. Her gift for administration has served her well in roles such as Director of Public Relations, Southeast Regional Director of Education, and Church Executive Administrator.
Currently, Elder Gonzales serves with Wholistic Life Ministries in Kennesaw, Georgia under the leadership of Dr. John “Jay” Jones, where she provides spiritual leadership and guidance as the Director of the GROW Ministry (Gaining Real Obedience in the Word) and manages the church’s digital presence.
With over two decades of ministerial experience, Elder Dr. Tracey Gonzales is a woman of wisdom, grace, and prophetic insight. She is a living witness to God’s faithfulness and continues to impact lives with her teaching, leadership, and unrelenting passion for advancing the Kingdom of God.
Her mission remains clear: to live and serve to the glory of God—because tomorrow is not promised, but eternity is.
