From Grass to Grace

About the Book

What does it take for one man to turn adversity into legacy?

From Grass to Grace: The Life & Times of Pastor Fitz Albert “Pappy” Waterman is a powerful Caribbean biography that chronicles a journey of resilience, faith, and transformative leadership. Born into poverty in colonial-era Barbados and forced out of school at age seven, Pappy’s story unfolds against the backdrop of social injustice, educational inequality, and the deep scars of post-slavery society.

In this faith-based memoir, author Nigel Waterman, Pappy’s youngest son, offers a moving portrait of a man who refused to be defined by limitations. Pappy rose from child laborer to respected community leader. He traveled to the United States during WWII, then returned to Barbados to build a home, raise a family, and found a Pentecostal church that would stand for generations. His bold stand in 1944 against compromised spiritual leadership led to the creation of the Mile and a Quarter Pentecostal House of Prayer, which he pastored faithfully for 49 years.

With rich cultural and historical context, Waterman captures how Christian leadership, integrity, and vision shaped not only a life but also an entire community. This compelling story includes heartfelt testimonies from those Pappy mentored and inspired.

For readers drawn to Caribbean family history, reparations discourse, or stories of spiritual perseverance, this book offers deep insight and lasting impact.

Let Pappy’s story ignite your purpose. Start reading today and be inspired to brighten the corner where you are.

About the Author

Nigel Waterman holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration. He has a passion for history and genealogy. He has visited museums in Barbados, Britain, Canada and the USA. He has written a family tree of his ancestry. He plans to interview all family members and write a book on their stories for posterity.