Our Origin Story
The idea for Righteous Rydez began long before the organization officially launched.
In January 2024, founder Raymond Lighthall began praying about how he could use his passion for automobiles to further God’s Kingdom. He initially envisioned a nonprofit that would receive donated vehicles, restore them to safe and reliable condition, give them attractive paint and cosmetic improvements, and then place them with those in need. While the concept seemed promising, nothing ever came together in a way that brought peace or clarity.
By April 2024, Raymond realized that this was not the direction God was calling him to pursue. He began praying a different prayer: “Lord, what is Your plan for me?”
The only answer he consistently received was a single name: Matthew.
Unsure of what this meant, Raymond searched for understanding. Was God directing him to the Gospel of Matthew? To the disciple Matthew? Or perhaps to his friend Matthew from church? He explored each possibility, yet months passed without any additional clarity.
In July 2024, Raymond joined nineteen others from his home church, Bear Creek Church, on a mission trip to Guatemala. Throughout the trip, he shared his ongoing “Matthew” dilemma with fellow team members. Adding to the mystery, one of the missionaries serving on the trip was also named Matthew.
During that week in Guatemala, God began speaking clearly.
Through Scripture—especially passages from the Gospel of Matthew—through devotionals, Gospel presentations, conversations with missionaries, and interactions with the people they had come to serve, Raymond received the answer he had been seeking.
The Lord’s calling was not simply to work with cars.
The calling was to devote himself to full-time mission work and to help others do the same.
When Raymond returned home from Guatemala, the foundation of Righteous Rydez was born. What began as an idea centered around automobiles evolved into a mission-centered ministry focused on advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Rather than leaving behind his passion for vehicles, God revealed how that passion could become a tool for ministry—supporting missionaries and helping further the work of the Great Commission.
In January 2025, Righteous Rydez officially launched as a public 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting missions and missionaries around the world. Today, Righteous Rydez exists to equip, encourage, and support those who have been called to share the hope of Jesus Christ. Through vehicle donations, fundraising efforts, mission partnerships, and practical support, the organization helps missionaries answer God’s call and spread the Gospel wherever He leads.
Meet Our Board
Raymond J. Lighthall IV
Founder Missionary and CEO (Chief Executive Officer)
Raymond Lighthall serves as Board Chair, helping guide the strategic vision and direction of Righteous Rydez. He is the proud father of two adult children, R.J. (26) and Kayla (23), whose compassion, character, and servant hearts have played a significant role in shaping the man he is today.
Known for his deep passion for serving others, Raymond has spent much of his life looking for ways to meet practical needs while sharing the love of Christ. His heart for missions and advancing God’s Kingdom has led him to serve both locally and internationally, ultimately answering God’s call into full-time missions work. Alongside this calling, Raymond has faithfully served in both children’s and student ministries at his home church, Bear Creek Church, for more than a decade.
His professional background in automotive painting, combined with a lifelong passion for cars, has uniquely equipped him to help develop and lead the vehicle donation programs that are becoming a part of Righteous Rydez’s ministry efforts.
Raymond’s vision for Righteous Rydez is simple: to use every vehicle, every relationship, and every opportunity as a tool to serve others and point people toward Jesus.
Jessica Merlo
Missionary and CLO
(Chief Legal Officer)
Jessi Merlo serves as the Chief Legal Officer and a member of the Board of Directors for Righteous Rydez, where she supports the organization's mission with a heart for service and a commitment to community impact.
At her core, Jessi is a devoted wife and proud mother of three young adults. Her family is the foundation of her life, and she is passionate about raising her children with strong values, faith, and a spirit of service to others.
Since 2014, Jessi has been actively involved in mission work in Guatemala, returning year after year to serve communities in need. These experiences have deeply shaped her perspective and strengthened her commitment to helping others through compassion, humility, and action. Her work in Guatemala reflects her belief that meaningful change begins with showing up, building relationships, and serving with purpose.
At Righteous Rydez, Jessi is passionate about advancing the organization's mission, empowering communities, and helping create opportunities that transform lives. Her dedication to service, both locally and globally, reflects her belief that true leadership is rooted in compassion, integrity, and action.
Pastor Kyle Wassom
Pastor Missionary and CBO
(Chief Biblical Officer)
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Organizations We Partner With
Righteous Rydez proudly collaborates with churches, nonprofits, and local coalitions to expand our reach. These partnerships help us deliver the Gospel, resources, and rides where they are needed most.
Companies That Support Our Vision
Righteous Rydez is powered by generous individuals and companies that share a belief in sharing the Gospel through missions and missionaries. Their support funds missionaries, mission trips, vehicles, projects (ie. homes, beds, etc.), food and clean water, and much more.
