HISTORY OF FLIPPIN CHURCH OF CHRIST

TRAVELING PREACHERS mid 1900’s

Being few in number in the mid 1900’s did not deter the few faithful christians determined to worship in the church of Christ thus establishing the Flippin congregation. How fitting that a meeting place was found in the community building located on the Flippin School ground, an establishment devoted to secular education while the church was dedicated to gospel education. Among the founding fathers of the Flippin church are Mr and Mrs Silas Dean; Mr and Mrs Morgan Smith; Mr and Mrs Charlie Smith; Mr and Mrs Rex McCracken. Garner Jenkins whose faith was taught and passed on through his following generations circling back in 2020 with his grandson, Jeff Crawford serving in the Flippin congregation as preacher and teacher. Others responsible with this first congregation are Mr and Mrs Edward Wooten; Ominus Kyle; Charlie, Nellie and Willie Parker; the Glen Parrott family (whose granddaughter, Bernetta grew up attending the Flippin congregation and now occasionally visits while living in Searcy); Mrs Belle Ott; Mrs Lennie Ott (Claiborne Ott’s mother); Mr and Mrs Foresee; and Ulis and Geneva Rae.

While this group did not have a full time preacher, meeting for bible class and partaking of the Lord’s Supper was regular Sunday worship. Visiting preachers were solicited with Brother Silas Dean being the most regular. Occasionally others included John Dillard; Pierce Adams and Earl Berry. The year of 1950 brought an exciting event for the congregation with Brother GW Toland of Little Rock holding the first gospel meeting, a ‘revival’ as it was referred to then.

CHARLIE SMITH LOCATION - 1951

With a slow but steady growth in 1951, the congregation was able to obtain a larger meeting place on the Charlie Smith place on Highway 62 east. While being still small but comfortable, this location hosted the congregation for two years. Interest during gospel meetings frequently added more additions to the church membership, as did the ‘revival’ with Pierce Adams preaching.

GLEN PARROTT LOCATION - 1952

The next location of the church was in 1952 when property was purchased near the Glen Parrott place. With a larger building, more available parking and the popularity of gospel meetings, many more ‘revivals’ were held. Pierce Adams, John Dillard and Brother Honeycutt were among the evangelists. Other younger Christian families helping strengthen the congregation during this time included the Leland Hurst family; Darrel and Iris Watson and children Pat, Jimmy, Rita and soon to be born Marilyn; Elmo and Nadine Hurst and children Larry and soon to be born Sharleen. (Although living away Larry and Sharleen are beloved frequent visitors still today). Hobert and Leone Hudson and sons Donald, Ronald and soon to be bore Dane; Lonnie and Louise Burch and daughter Marlene; Kirby and Bernice Holder (daughter of Glenn Parrott) and soon to be born Bernetta; and Mr and Mrs Guy McCracken were among these families. Another couple was Claiborne and Elsie Ott and children Terry and Lea Atrice. (Terry has preached part time in surrounding congregations including Jepp, Oakland and Cotter). (Lea and husband Larry Blasdel still attend in Flippin where Larry holds an elder position). Others were Mr and Mrs Doyle Williams; and Albert and Janette Davis (sister to Claiborne Ott) and son Donald. Preachers during this time were Clarence Adams; John Dillard; Joe Keener and Doyle Davenport.

NEW BUILDING - Doyle Davenport 1957

With God’s blessing the congregation continued to grow requiring a larger space. With much excitement and thankfulness, the property at Third and Girard Streets in Flippin was purchased in 1957. The building was constructed by contractor Ruey Estes of Yellville with most of the actual work being done by members. Filled with joy and appreciation the group began worship in the facility in late 1957. Doyle Davenport from Caney was instrumental in the work of the growth and success of the congregation. Doyle and Anna Lea drove the 20 mile one way distance Sunday morning and evening and again for Wednesday night service. They did not only bring themselves in inclement weather but others who needed transportation.

Others who helped with the growth of the congregation during this time were Jim and Mabel Davenport; Ulis and Lee Ellen Davenport and children Wanda, Anna Sue and KP; Joe and Lou Dillard; Dertie Jones; Ethel Fletcher; Maude Davenport; Ward and Maggie Davenport; Gracie Marberry; Virgil and Florence Davenport (grandparents of Pat Griffin and Marilyn McNair currently attending in Flippin); Jim and Gustie Roach; Riley and Jeannie Baker; Ada Moreland; Russell and Glessie Cox and daughters Debbie and Charlene; Ruth Cox; Thomas and Maude Vanzandt; Thomas and Eula McCracken; Ed and Erna McCracken; Othel and Zella Coots; Bill and Anna Lee Davenport; Ron and Lavone Davenport; Sue Kellogg; Darrel and Iris Watson and children Patricia (later married to Mick Griffin, current elder), Jimmy, Rita (later married to Larry Hurst) and Marilyn; Mac Foresee family; Menard Cox family; Wayne Hurst family; Jewell (brother to Claiborne) and Helen Ott. Others were HC and Shirley Hall; Guy (song leader) and Jane Rose; Mr and Mrs Winfred Perry; Mrs Laskey; Mr and Mrs Edd Cook and Mr and Mrs Ray Moore.

To the joy of the congregation young families with children were increasing the attendance and additional bible class space was needed. Several classrooms were added to the building in the early 1960’s.

After Doyle Davenport’s dedicated service then resignation from the pulpit in the 1970’s, Bud Brandon preached for a year. Brother Luell McCutche0n began his service with the congregation in 1974. During his ministry the tradition of annual gospel meetings began in the Flippin church. Among the evangelists were Rue Porter; Pierce Adams; Jimmie Ray Adams and Brother Steward. Goble Music; Brother Richard Dixon from Jay, Florida and Brother Walter Bucannon from Texas were also among them. Traveling preachers were fed and housed in member homes during their stay.

The information gathered and shared up until this point in time was contributed by Earl Berry. Earl was a part time preacher residing in Fairview.

LUELL McCUTCHEON - 1974

The 1970’s brought growth both spiritual and physical to the congregation. While many of the children of the 60’s had grown, married, moved and attended other congregations, many were still attending now with children of their own.

During Brother McCutcheon’s time serving the Lord in Flippin members were Mick and Pat Griffin, (daughter of Darrel and Iris Watson) and children Michelle, Greg and soon to be born Amy; Larry and Lea Blasdell (daughter of Claiborne and Elsie Ott) and children Larry Jr, Bridget and Sonja; Terry and Darlene Ott and sons Ryan and Jeffery; Hobert and Leone Hudson (parents of Ronald, Donald and Dane); Ronald and Anna Sue Hudson and children Chad and Eric; Donald and Karen Hudson and children Kim, Angi, and Cassie; and Dane and Pam Hudson. Agatha Hurst; Larry and Rita Hurst (son of Nadine Hurst and daughter of Darrell and Iris Watson); Nadine Hurst; Garner Jenkins (grandfather of preacher Jeff Crawford 2020); Sue Kellogg; Ira and Geneva Lansdown; Ed and Erna McCracken; Thomas and Eula McCracken; Luell (preacher) and Barbara McCutcheon and son Delbert. WT Moreland; CR and Nola Morgan; Nora Nelson; and Claiborne and Elsie Ott. Other members included William and Thelma Bell; Lonnie (brother of Leone Hudson) and Louise Burch. Among others were Kelley and Linda Hurst and sons, Kelley Don and Michael. Oscar and Margaret Carlberg; Othel and Zella Davenport; Alfred and Janette Davis; Silas and Harriet Dean; Darrel and Wanda Flippin (daughter of Lee Ellen Davenport and sister to Anna Sue Hudson) and boys, Ricky, Randy and Michael. Joyce Henry and son Dwight; Kirby and Bernice Holder and son Alan; Jewell (brother to Claiborne) and Helen Ott; Lennie Ott; Walcie Parker; Billy Ray and Nancy Pyle; Millie Smith; Michael Tetrick; Wilson and Jesse Vines; Darrel and Iris Watson (parents of Pat and Marilyn) and Edward and Elzada Wooten. Others attending were Guy and Jane Rose; Mr and Mrs Winfred Perry; Ray and Lucile Moore; Edd Cook; Stanley and Lois Barnett; John and Virgie Simpson; and Jim and Dian Griffin.

Another addition to the building was made in the 1970’s adding a fellowship hall and a basement of classrooms.

Deaths during the 1970’s include Jewell Ott; Alfred Davis; Russel Cox and Garner Jenkins. Brother McCutcheon still preaches at West Road congregation in Mountain Home. He was followed by Kerry Harris.

JOHN CAREY - EARLY 1980’s

John Carey was the next in line to fill the pulpit and preach God’s word in the congregation. He was active in the church while maintaining an administrative position at Flippin High School.

Along with members from the 1970’s, new families included Clabe and Bonita Presley; Ken and Christy Hullett (daughter of Clabe and Bonita) and children Troy and Andrea. Cheryl and Larry Blasdel Jr and children Danyelle and Tyler; Frank and Beulah Green; Bob and Anna Harper; Darin and Bridget Stahler and children Taylor, Jordan, Christian and Dax; Gary and Renee Myers and children Britany, Ashley, and Ryan; Mr and Mrs Harold Hoffine were also members. Others included Kelly Hurst; Sheridan and Judy Kirksey; Juanell LaRue; Wilda Eason; Melissa Mathews and daughter Lindsay; Justin and Kalena Mathews; Neil and Mary Reinhard; and Linda Sawyer returning after living away.

After thoughtful and prayerful consideration the church was blessed with the first elders to serve the congregation on December 6, 2005. Mickey Griffin; Sheridan Kirksey and John Carey along with deacons Larry Blasdel Jr and Ken Hullett were appointed. The following year Larry Blasdel Sr was appointed as elder also. New deacons were Troy Hullett and Justin Mathews.

The congregation was saddened during the 1980’s and 1990’s with the deaths of Lennie Ott; Helen Ott; Janette Davis; Wilson and Jesse Vines; Frank and Beulah Green; Bob Harper; Kirby Holder; Darrell and Iris Watson; and Claiborne Ott.

TERRY FRIZZELL -2007

After 27 years of Brother Carey’s service, the prayerful search to fill the pulpit was answered with Terry Frizzell in 2007. Terry had been preaching in Belfonte and Gaither and was known for preaching God’s word in truth and love. Terry’s desire to share the gospel had given him the opportunity to make several missionary journeys to the Pacific Islands.

Many previous listed members were joined with new families during this time. Among some were Laura Allen and her parents, Lawrence and Ruth Page; Janis and Earl Blasdel; Bob Marberry; Carolyn Calvery; Taylor Campbell (granddaughter of Larry and Lea Blasdel); Jeff and Sandy Hearn; Jim Stinson; Sharon Wilson; Hannah Blasdel (wife of Tyler Blasdel); Ashley Hullett bride of Troy (son of Ken and Christy) was added to the church family. Others include Jeff and Tammie Condery and children Bobby and Hannah. Donald and Karen Hudson along with their daughters and families, daughter Cassie and Larry Bell and children Drew, Noah, and Savannah; and daughter Angi and Shane Nix and children Colton, Kyle, Wyatt, Ava, Olivia and Brogan were attending. Jeffrey and Tracy Ott and daughters Micah and Makayla; Donald and Bonnie Knapp; Ken and Eileen Shaver; Phil and Elesha Granniss and sons Aaron and Ethan; and Chuck and Judy Warning were others. Those who live part time locally and worship with congregation are always a blessed addition. Bob and Janet Chambers found a special place in the congregation’s heart while sharing residence here and in Albuquerque, NM.

The birth of new babies are always a delight. During this time the congregation was blessed with children Alex and Silas born to Justin and Kalena Mathews. Kennedy, Cora and Emma were born to Ashley and Troy Hullett. Xander and Braxton were born to Dominick and Hannah Kennedy.

Funerals are a mixture of sadness and celebration when dying in the Lord. The congregation experienced those occasions also. Those passing were Louise and Lonnie Burch; Glessie Cox; and sisters Wilda Eason and Juanell LaRue (daughters of Wilson and Jesse Vines). Daughter of Glenn Parrott, an original member, was Bernice Holder. Ken Shaver; Elsie Ott; Donald Hudson; Bonnie Knapp; Jim Stinson and Lawerence Page were other church family deaths.

Terry Frizzell and wife, Beverly, served the congregation faithfully for twelve years. Terry’s death in August of 2018 left a huge hole in the congregation’s structure and the church family’s hearts. The finality of the Frizzells’ physical role in the congregation was realized one year to the day of Terry’s departure when Beverly left this world to be with Terry and her Lord eternally. Their spiritual roles live on in anyone who knew them and was touched by their presence while with the congregation.

JEFF CRAWFORD - 2020

The pursuit for the next minister was completed in January 2020 with the addition of Jeff Crawford. Brother Crawford’s thirty years of preaching for the Caney Church of Christ validated his genuine ability, truth and love for preaching the word of God. Jeff is a Cotter High School history teacher and active in the community utilizing that position as a role model to young adults.

During this time the congregation continued to grow. Newly arriving members included are Landon Farquhar; Gracie Dover; Shirley Rose; Dominick Kennedy; Betty and Craig Boyette and daughter Christabelle; Sharon Trogdon; Noah Bell; Billy and Julee Willard; Cindi and Dennis von Thun; Devin and Christie Deislinger; David and Carolyn Bowen; Jordan Campbell (grandaughter of Larry and Lea Blasdel); Wanda Flippin; Butch and Sue Hayes; and Sharon Wilson. Members sharing home locations with another residence in Charleston, AR are Jeff and Susan Hayes. Others include Tammie Williams and daughter, Kaitlyn Shea with her daughters Asypn, Lillie and Rylee; and Jeff’s family, wife Rhonda and son Jordan Crawford.

These were added to previously mentioned members of Janis and Earl Blasdel; Larry Jr, Cheryl and Danyelle Blasdel; Tyler and Hannah Blasdel; Larry Sr and Lea Blasdel; Taylor Campbell; Janet and Bob Chambers; Jeff, Tammie and Bobby Condery; Virgina Davis; Ava Flippin; Mickey and Pat Griffin; Karen Hudson; Ken and Christy Hullett; Troy and Ashley Hullett and children Kennedy, Cora, Emma and Trenton; Dominick, Hannah Kennedy and sons Xander and Braxton; Sheridan and Judy Kirksey; Donald Knapp; Justin, Kalena Mathews and sons Alex and Silas, Melissa Mathews; Marilyn McNair; Clabe and Bonita Presley; Neil and Mary Reinhard; Linda Sawyer and Sharon Wilson.

The year 2020 came with its difficulties for the congregation as did with the rest of the world when covid restrictions closed the doors and forced members to seek alternative worship service such as home and online. The church could not tolerate being dislodged and separate from another for long. The elders soon devised a worship system with attendees sitting in vehicles with Brother Crawford preaching from the porch using a PA system. It was effective for the time being, but all were relieved when the doors were again opened although using distance seating and facial masks.

A highlight of 2023 was the appointing of additional elders of Larry Blasdel Jr and Ken Hullett. Jeff Crawford was selected as deacon with current deacons Troy Hullett and Justin Mathews.

New births of children over the years have delighted and encouraged the church. The birth of Trenton Hullett to Ashley and Troy was welcomed by the entire congregation. Many of previous members have gone to be with the Lord. Some have moved to other places. With earthly sadness and heavenly happiness we remember the ones who have died in the Lord. Elsie Ott (mother of Lea Blasdel); Gracie and Bob Marberry; Donald Davis (son of Alfred and Janette Davis); and Craig Boyette continue to be missed from our lives.

Many children have grown and moved to other locations worshiping with their home congregations. Many have lived away then returned to Flippin. Some children have grown from birth and been with the Flippin congregation their entire lives. Larry Blasdel Jr; Tyler Blasdel and Troy Hullett are three of these.

The church at Flippin meets for worship on Sunday mornings and nights and for bible class on Wednesday. The church helps support Christian mission fields within the nation and abroad. Gospel meetings are a part of its mission work. Although lifestyles, technology and customs change and progress continues, the church of Christ in Flippin while utilizing these advancements still continues in the beliefs and traditions of the first century church of which Christ gave his life and the gospel mystery that unfolded as the apostles taught and preached.

This history is a general collection of times, locations and membership. Names listed may not include all who at one time attended the Flippin Church of Christ.