On the day before the very first Thanksgiving, in Savannah, Georgia, was born Alvin Laranzo Petty. He was reared in a Christian home and graduated from Ramah Jr. Academy and Alfred Eli Beach High School. He furthered his education at Savannah State College (now University) and South College, majoring in Computer Science and Business Administration.

In 1990, he was licensed to preach the gospel at the Second Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church of Savannah, GA. under the leadership of the Rev. Harold Baker. He furthered his education by attending Bryant Theological Seminary Extension Unit. He then became one of the first students from Savannah to attend the Covington Theological seminary of Rossville, GA., where he recieved an Associate of Religious Education; a Bachelor of Ministry in Theology; a Master of Ministry in Theology; and a Doctorate of Ministry in Biblical Studies. Dr. Petty served as a professor of Church History for Covington Seminary.

After years of pastoring in Savannah, Sylvania and Collins, GA., Dr. Alvin L. Petty was called to preach a fall revival at the First African Baptist Church of Hilton Head Island and, in June 1999, was elected to serve as the Senior Pastor of F.A.B.

During the early 90's, Dr. Petty served as Vice Moderator of the second district of the Pilgrim Baptist Association and Vice Chairman of the executive board for the Sunday School and B.T.U. Also, Dr. Petty served for six years as chairman of the Hilton Head Island Ministerial Alliance and recently elected to serve as secretary.