ROCKY RIVER BAPTIST CHURCH CEMETERY, Anderson County, SC a.k.a. Wilson's Creek Baptist Version: 3.5 Effective: 8-Feb-2009 Text File: A291.TXT Image Folder: A291 ******************************************************************************** It's believed that the usage of any original work submittals contained within these webpages such as articles, compiling, photographs or graphics, conform to Fair Use Doctrine & Copyright Guidelines. COPYRIGHT NOTE: (1.) Works published before 1923, are considered to be public- domain. (2.) Works published 1923-1977 without a copyright notice, are considered to be public-domain. (3.) Unpublished non-copyrighted works will have Author permission for public-domain. Facts, names, dates, events, places & data can not be copyrighted. Narration, compilations and creative works can be copyrighted. Copyright law in the U.S. does not protect facts or data, just the presentation of this data. REPRODUCING NOTICE: These electronic pages may only be reproduced for personal or 501(c) Not-For-Profit Society use. Use the following names, if, you would like to give any author compiling credit. AUTHORS: Paul M. Kankula-NN8NN & Gary L. Flynn-KE8FD *********************************************************************** 05-01-15 HISTORY ........ : Rocky River Baptist Church CEMETERY LOCATION: ------------------ 3 miles east of Iva. GPS = Latitude N34 17.825 x Longitude W82 36.178 CEMETERY HISTORY: ------------------------ The History Of Rocky River Baptist Church 3266 Lake Secession Road Iva, SC "Celebrating 200 Years" 1803 - 2003 History of Rocky River Baptist Church Our church is located in Abbeville County, at the Anderson County line, about twelve miles south from Anderson and four miles east from Cook's Station, on the Savannah Valley Railroad, now the town of Iva. It was originally know as Wilson Creek, and was situated near the residence of Bartlett D. Hall, the present residence of Fred Burriss, about one and one-half miles northwest of our present site. Wilson Creek was an outgrowth of Little River, and, like many of the older churches, it was of gradual development. The first account we have of Baptist preaching in this neighborhood was about the year 1790, when Nathan Hall of whom little is known, began to preach. He was followed by George Tillman of Little River Church, James Crowther, who had but recently moved over from England, and others. Their labors were blessed of God, and Elder Tillman baptized several into the fellowship of Little River Church, of which he was pastor. In 1794 they were constituted a branch of Little River Church, Elder Nathan Hall becoming their pastor or supply. This little band worked on for ten years, being supplied part of the time by Elders Hall, Tillman, and Philip Phagans. In the spring of 1803 they were constituted an independent church, with about twenty members. Elder James Crowther was elected pastor, which happy and useful relation existed as long as he lived. His pastorate was signalized as a period of peace and prosperity. He baptized fourteen converts into his fellowship only a few days before his death. On November 5th, 1803, when only a few months old, it entered into the organization of the Saluda Baptist Association, becoming one of the constituent members of that body, which relation has continuously existed from that time to the present. In 1810 it was decided to move the church to a more eligible location. A site was selected upon the homestead of Charles Stark, who was at that time a member of the church. A house of worship was erected near his residence, one mile from where the present building now stands. In August of the same year, it asked permission of the Association to change its name from Wilson's Creek to Rocky River, which was granted. About the year 1820 the pastor, James Crowther, began preaching in the First Creek neighborhood, and in a short time succeeded in establishing a branch of Rocky River Church in that community. In September, 1824, it was constituted an independent church, twenty-five members having been dismissed by letter for that purpose. In November 1829, they sustained a great loss and sore bereavement in the death of their beloved pastor, James Crowther, who had served them with great fidelity of purpose and earnestness of soul from their incipiency. He had gained a strong hold upon the affections of his own people, and was greatly respected in the community in which he lived. Thomas Calloway was then called as pastor, and served the church one year when he was followed by James Davis, who remained two years. In 1834 Sanford Vandiver served the church as pastor. He was succeeded in 1835 by M. A. Spalding, of Georgia, father of the distinguished A. T. Spalding, D. D. He was an able preacher, a fine scholar, and exerted a wonderful influence in the Saluda Association during his residence in the State. In 1836 William McGee was called to the pastorate of the church, and remained two years, when he was followed by James Fant, who served one year. In 1836 Blackman Burton, one of their number, was called by the church to ordination of the gospel ministry. In 1839 he became pastor of the church, which position he filled until the close of his life in 1848. Although a man of limited education, Brother Burton is said to have been a faithful Christian and good preacher. During the ten years of his pastorate the membership gradually increased and the church waxed stronger. Upon the death of Elder Burton, Valentine Young became pastor, in which capacity he served them for three years. He was followed in 1851 by James Kay, of Little River, who stayed only one year. Amaziah Rice was the next pastor. He took charge of the church in January 1852 and remained seven years. Unfortunately no title had ever been obtained from Brother Stark to the ground upon which the house was built, and after his death his heirs refused to deed the same to the church; whereupon they were driven to the necessity of seeking a new location. In 1857 William Tucker, a deacon of the church, obtained a grant of four and one-eighth acres of land from Edward Davis and Dr. N. J. Newell, upon which a new and more substantial building was erected on the present site. This was a framed building thirty by sixty feet. It was never ceiled nor painted, but was commodious and comfortable. From 1859 to 1869 W. O. Martin, of the Broadmouth Church, served as pastor. He was not blessed with the advantages of an education, either literary, or theological; but his rugged strength of mind and strong self-will commanded respect and gave him influence. Decided, energetic, and self-reliant, he bore down obstacles with a giant's arm. The church prospered greatly under his ministry. During his pastorate of ten years he baptized 134 persons. In 1866 the membership numbered 200. This was the golden period in the church's history. In 1869 W. H. King was called as pastor, and continued two years. Wilson Ashley then became pastor and remained until the close of the year 1872, when he was followed by W. E. Walters, of the First Creek Church. He continued to serve the church as pastor until 1877, when he was deposed from the ministry and excluded from the church for the sin of drunkenness. Mr. Walters had, for many years, been one of the most brilliant and popular preachers in Anderson county. In addition to his great popularity as a preacher, he wielded and unbounded influence in the Saluda Association, over which body he had presided for a number of years. His sad and untimely downward fall brought sorrow to many hearts and tears to many eyes. W. Ho. King, a former pastor, resumed to pastoral duties of the church in 1878, and continued them until 1887, a period of ten years. In 1880 the church met with another sad misfortune. Early in the spring of this year they had overhauled and remodeled their house, which added greatly to its appearance, comfort and convenience. On the night of the 31st of March it was totally destroyed by an incendiary fire. After this sad occurrence it was nearly three years before another house was built. Meanwhile services were occasionally held under a brush arbor. Early in the year 1882, a committee, consisting of the following brethren, Dr. W. J. Milford, James McKee, J. C. Hall and W. N. Hall were appointed a building committee to superintend the erection of a new house of worship. Brother J.B. Hampton was subsequently appointed to act as secretary and treasurer of the committee. The house, a neat framed building, ceiled, painted and seated was completed in 1883. It was solemnly dedicated to the worship of Almighty God in September of the same year. Elder Charles Manley, D. D., of Greenville, SC preached the dedicatory sermon. In 1887, Elder M. H. Allen of Central, SC moved into the neighborhood and took charge of the Flat Rock, Union and Rocky River Churches. But he found the Rocky River Church so badly demoralized he remained only one year, resigning at its close to accept a call to Cross Roads and Mountain Creek. F. M. Cann, licentiate of the church, was then called to ordination and became pastor of the church and served one year. His labors, though very acceptable, accomplished little. G. M. Rogers began his labors with the church in January 1889. From 1880 to 1889 the church was in a cold, barren condition. Internal strife and dissension was rife. Brotherly love and fidelity were sadly wanting, while gross immoralities had been indulged in by some of the members. But through the un-trying efforts of Elder G. M. Rogers, the church was, in a large measure, re- united and much of the old trouble healed over. At the beginning of Elder Rogers pastorate the membership was sixty-five. By the year 1895, the membership was 200. The following brethren have served the church as deacons: Charles Stark, William Tucker, Dejarnette Tucker, Henry Burton, George Nelson, John Milford and W. W. Burriss. These all have served before 1890. The following named brethren constituted to board of deacons in 1890: J. C. Hall, B. D. Hall, M. W. Spoon, Henry Morrison, A. B. Gailey and John McMahan. The following named brethren have served the church as clerk, serving from 1837 to 1858: A. E. Fant, W. S. Hampton, A. G. Latimer, Hamiron Tucker and T. C. Milford. The Saluda Baptist Association has convened with our church twice. The first time in 1857 when the church was without a building and the services were held under a brush arbor. The second time was in 1894 when they met in the building which was erected in 1883. It was at this meeting that the Association appointed T. H. Garrett to write the history of the Association. Elder G. M. Rogers resigned the pastorate in 1895 to enroll in the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He was followed by J. B. Herron who served until 1900. Then the church called Elder Mike McGee who served only one year. In 1901 W. B. Hawkins was pastor and served two years. Elder G. M. Rogers was called back as pastor in 1903 and served until 1906. Elder M. M. McCuen was pastor from 1906 until 1909. The members decided to fence in the cemetery and make it more attractive in 1909. They bought enough steel fencing to enclose the entire cemetery for three hundred and seventy-one dollars. Elder Herman Stone was called as pastor in 1909 and served five years until 1914. On September 17, 1910 the church called for the ordination of one of their members, Brother C. J. Hampton, to the gospel ministry. The presbytery was composed of the following brethren: Mike McGee, W. B. Hawkins, H. W. Stone, W. H. Morrison, B. H. Hall, J. B. Hampton, W. R. Crowther, L. O. Burton and W. M. Campbell. Elder M. M. McCuen was moderator. The ordination sermon was preached by W. B. Hawkins, and the ordination prayer was led by the pastor, H. W. Stone. Elder J. S. Cobb was pastor in 1914 and served two years. He was followed by H. Haydock who served only one year. Then Elder H. C. Martin was pastor in 1917 followed by Louis Smith in 1918. The church called their own C. J. Hampton in 1919, whom they had ordained in 1910, as pastor and he served in this capacity for three years. In 1922 Elder E. J. Ingle was pastor. He was a graduate of Mars Hill College in North Carolina and it was under his leadership that the building was renovated in 1923. The roof was re-covered and new windows were installed and the building repainted. Mr. Ingle resigned in 1923 to enroll in the Seminary and the church called George Martin as pastor who served until 1925. The church then called M. M. McCuen for pastor the second time. He served this time for two years. The membership of the church in 1927 was 179. W. B. Hawkins was called to pastor the church in 1927 and stayed until 1930. Mr. E. L. Kugley, who was living in Iva, served the church from 1930 to 1931 as pastor. The reverend Mr. C. B. Garrett was called to the pastorate in 1931 and remained until 1941, a period of ten years. These were hard years for the church. Money was scarce and the members had a hard time trying to make ends meet. One year they only paid Mr. Garrett seventy dollars for his services. Mr. Garrett was a fine preacher and a wonderful Christian and the church prospered spiritually during his pastorate. On October 26, 1936 the church called for the ordination of one of their members to the gospel ministry, Brother J. Cleveland Tucker. Those composing the presbytery were: Rev. J. C. Hampton, Rev. Jenkins, Brethren W. B. Latham, John Stokes, Kenneth Stokes, B. H. Hall, Joe Ferguson, A. H. Burriss, J. D. Jones, Anson Brock and Marion Price. Brother W. E. Hall served as clerk and Rev. C. B. Garrett served as Moderator. In 1941 Rev. Garrett called attention to the fact that the building was badly in need of repairs. This was discussed in conference by the members and it was challenged the members to pledge as much as they could toward a new building and Brother J. C. Tucker gave ten dollars which was matched by Brother John Stockes. This was the first money raised for the construction of the present building. Several others took up the challenge and began to pledge and give money to build a new house of worship. Mr. Garrett resigned in 1941 to accept other work and Reverend Mr. Alfred Guest was called to the pastorate in 1942. In 1942 a committee was appointed to superintend the building of a new house of worship. This committee consisted of the following brethren: W. Ezekiel Hall, Jr., chairman; John Stokes, J.C. Tucker, W. B. Latham, Jessie Ethridge, and Joe Ferguson. A brick building 30" x 50" with full basement for classrooms was erected in 1947 and solemnly dedicated to the worship of Almighty God in September of the same year. Dr. E. C. White of Anderson preached the dedicatory sermon. The following named brethren have served as clerk since 1900: C. H. Bailey - 2 years, C. Hampton - 14 years, W. E. Hall, Jr. - 31 years. In the summer of 1947 a dispute arose among the members over enlarging the cemetery. Some wanted to enlarge it on the north side and some objected to bringing the cemetery any closer to the building. The contention became so strong that another pastor was called in to moderate the conference for the church. Rev. D. B. Webber, pastor of the Iva Baptist Church, was the moderator of the September 28th conference in 1947. The results of the conference were that the cemetery be enlarged on the east side, and that it not come any nearer the building on the north side. The back part of the fence on the east side was taken down and the cemetery extended back as far as the church property went. So much bitterness and resentment had arisen over the dispute that another fence was never put around the new part of the cemetery Rev. M. A. Guest served on as pastor until 1948 and resigned. Then the church called Rev. B. F. Turner who served until 1953, Rev. M. A. Guest was called to serve the church as pastor for the second time and began his pastoral duties on September 1953 He served as full time pastor. November 1, 1953 the church voted to get chairs for new Sunday school class and to order paper for Sunday morning bulletin. Our church has maintained Sunday school since April 1889 when Elder G. M. Progers was pastor. A Sunday school was organized and officers elected. Brother A. B. Gailey was the first superintendent. The women of the church knelt around and prayed that Sunday that the Sunday School never die. God has answered their prayers. The church voted in conference on January 31, 1954 to start a building fund for a pastorium. They were the following: E. C. Loftis, J. D. Jones, and Harvey Ethridge. Brother Harvey Ethridge was selected to act as treasurer of building fund. On March 7, 1954 the church voted to build a pastorium on the church property. A building committee was appointed consisting of the following named brethren: J. A. Compton, Howard Burton, and Ray Burton. Eston Purdy was to act as treasurer for the building fund. In 1954 the church adopted the rotating system for board of deacons. The plan was not successful because the membership was too small and soon abandoned. July 18, 1954, the Church agreed to send regular offerings to the support of missions through the cooperative program. The Church adopted the unified budget also in 1954. On November 21, 1954 the church voted to get a title for property and have the church chartered so that they could borrow money with which to finish building pastorium. Rev. M. A. Guest resigned the pastorate on December 26, 1954 to enroll in seminary. Rev. James Hampton was extended an indefinite call to the church of February 20, 1955. He resigned on May 15, 1955. Serving only three months, this was the shortest pastorate the church has had; The longest, being that of Elder James Crowther, the first pastor, which was 26 years. Rev. William Bargoil was invited to supply the pulpit on June 5, 1955 and was extended an indefinite call to become full-time pastor on July 3, 1955. The pastorium was completed and Mr. Bargoil moved into it in July 1955. Rev. Bargoil resigned on January 10, 1960 to enroll in Seminary and was followed by Rev. Oscar Edmonds on February 28, 1960. In the summer of 1960 the members painted the fence around the old part of the cemetery. The church is working together and there is brotherly love among the members. In the summer of 1961 the church put on an evangelistic crusade with Dr. Bill Piper as Evangelist. Other churches in the area cooperated with us in providing special music. The attendance was good with a capacity crowd every service. It was the best revival held in this community in 25 years. There were 26 decisions for Christ. In 1962 the church called for the ordination of Lamar Smith, one of its members. The presbytery was composed of Revs. Charles Shacklette, Lee Roy Hayes, Cecil Loftis, Oscar Edmonds, Sam Putman, Frank Gillespie, and Deacons J. D. Jones, Ray Burton, and Harold Stokes. The Rev. Frank Gillespie was moderator. The sermon was preached by Oscar Edmonds and the ordination prayer was Cecil Loftis. Brother J. D. Jones was elected clerk following W. E. Hall in 1948 and served until 1953 when Brother Eston Purdy, our present Clerk elected. In January 1963 the church voted to refurnish the auditorium with new pews and carpet. The pews were to be bought by members and friends who wanted to memorialize loved ones who were members and former members of the church. The furniture was purchased and installed, a new carpet was installed, and the interior repainted, adding greatly to the comfort of the congregation and enhancing the beauty of the building. The present Board of Deacons are Ray Burton, Joe Ferguson, J. D. Jones, Claud Mitchell, W. J. Ethridge, Gilbert Robinson, and Harold Stokes. The membership at this time was 272. Compiled by and written by Rev. Oscar S. Edmonds, printed 1963, and copied in September 2003 by the Bicentennial Committee; October 2007 for the church website. Church History Update 1964 - 2003 On May 31, 1964 the church voted on recommendation of the deacons (chairman, Ray Burton) to finish remodeling the parsonage. Two rooms and carport were added. Open house and dedication was held on June 27, 1964. Rev. O. S. Edmonds, pastor, brought dedication and message. Rev. O. S. Edmonds resigned as pastor in 1966. On April 3, 1966, Rev. Albert Hudson was elected pastor and served until November 17, 1968. During his pastorate, the church purchased a new mimeograph machine and new hymnals. Special services were held on October 16, 1966, to ordain Lee Burton and Eston Purdy as deacons. Rev. Lamar Smith preached the ordination service. J. D. Jones, Harold Stokes, Horace Tucker, Ray Burton, Rev. Albert Hudson, Claude Mitchell and Pearce Purdy took part in the service. Deacons serving for 1966 - 1967 were Ray Burton, chairman, J. D. Jones, Pearce Purdy, Harold Stokes, Claude Mitchell, Horace Tucker, Lee Burton, Eston Purdy and Harvey Ethridge. In April 1969, Rev. John Lockaby was elected pastor and served until April 1972 when he and his family left due to discord and disagreement in the church. A number of members left with him and formed Emmanuel Baptist Church in Antreville. On August 12, 1969, the church voted to install air conditioning. On September 7, 1969, the church voted to buy an organ. On October 19, 1969, the church voted to rotate deacons and to have 6 actual deacons who would serve for 3 years each. On September 6, 1970, the church voted to sell bonds to finance the new building. On February 21, 1971, Earl White and James Smith were ordained as deacons. Rev. Alford Scoggins preached the sermon. Rev. John Lockaby gave the charge and J. D. Jones gave the prayer of dedication. L. E. Evans, father-in-law of James Smith, Participated in the laying on of hands. Billy Purdy was ordained as a deacon on October 17, 1971. Ray Burton was elected back on the active Board of Deacons. November 28, 1971 - Homecoming and Dedication service was held for the renovation of existing building, extended auditorium, new education plant, central heating and air conditioning, surface treated parking area and driveways. Rev. Lamar Smith preached the sermons. Planning committee consisted of Ray Burton, Ruth Jones, and Opal Parnell. In 1971, the parsonage was renovated and Kirt Mitchell made public his commitment to study in preparation for the Gospel ministry. Janie Lockaby was elected as minister of music on January 2, 1972 and served until April 30, 1972. On June 28, 1972, Rev. William Tisdale was elected interim pastor and served until April 1973. The church voted for J. D. Jones and Eston Purdy to replace Harold Stokes and Lee Burton, who rotated off of the active Board of Deacons effective October 1972. Rev. Larry Cox assumed the duties of pastor on April 15, 1973 after having been elected by the church on April 1, 1973 by unanimous vote. On April 8, 1973, the church voted to purchase 36 acres of land adjoining the present church property on recommendation of deacons (Mr. J. D. Jones chairman). Mr. Milford Fagg served as minister of music from 1973 - 1976. Milford was ordained as a deacon while serving at Rocky River. On June 30, 1974, the church voted to purchase a bus for $1,250 and begin a bus ministry. The ministry began August 14, 1974. Russ Metz was elected minister of youth on June 29, 1975 and served until January 1977. On September 28, 1975, the church elected Billy Purdy and Terry Ferguson to replace J. D. Jones and Eston Purdy as deacons to serve for 3 years. Gene Burton was ordained as a deacon on October 10, 1976. Rev. Larry Cox preached the ordination service. Twelve active deacons were present. October 1977 - active deacons are Billy Purdy (chairman), Terry Burton (c0- chairman), Eston Purdy (secretary), Ray Burton, Claude Mitchell, J. D. Jones, and Gene Burton. James Smith and Jimmy Parnell rotated off. On November 20, 1977, the church voted to pad the pews, piano, and organ benches and to replace the fence around the church cemetery with chain link fence. In March 1978, the church voted to purchase a new public address system and microphones. Ronnie Latham and Gilbert Bannister were elected as deacons and were ordained October 15, 1978. Rev. Larry Cox preached the ordination sermon. On November 26, 1978, an appreciation day was held for our pastor, Larry Cox as a surprise to him. Ray Burton, chairman of deacons, presided with each deacon giving a testimony. Dinner in the fellowship hall followed. Rev. Cox represented the church in a revival crusade to the Philippines for three weeks with the Gene Williams Evangelistic Association. Jason Lynch was elected as minister of music on April 22, 1979 and served until October 1981. Jason was ordained as a deacon by Rocky River Baptist Church on October 5, 1980. On April 27, 1980, Rev. Larry Cox resigned as pastor effective June 8, 1980 to accept a pastorate at Flat Shoals Baptist Church in Hartwell, GA. A farewell dinner was given by the church on June 8, 1980. Rev. Richard Roberts was called as interim pastor and served until May 1981. Linda Latham became the church pianist replacing Nancy Burton in June 1980. Prior to that, Ellen L. Holbrook served as pianist. Rev. Wayne Revisky began duties as pastor on May 27, 1981 and served until February 19, 1984, when he resigned to accept another pastorate. A farewell dinner was given the evening of February 19, 1984. During his pastorate, the church purchased 2 acres of land across the road from the church and a strip of land on the right side of the church from the estate of Mrs. Eula Hall. On September 20, 1981, Ray Burton and Kenneth Norwood were elected as deacons to replace Gilbert Bannister and Ronnie Latham who rotated off. Kenneth Norwood was ordained as a deacon on October 4, 1981. Rev. Wayne Revisky and Rev. Kirt Mitchell preached. Nine deacons were present. Also present was Rev. J. C. Rice, Saluda Baptist Director of Missions. Mike Brewington was elected minister of music on May 9, 1982 and served until September 12, 1982. Julia Burton served as minister of music from November 1982 until July 1983. Leland Brooks was elected minister of music on December 23, 1984 until April 28, 1985. Donnie Mitchell was ordained as a deacon on October 10, 1982. Rev. Kirt Mitchell preached the ordination sermon. Claude Mitchell, James Smith, Eston Purdy, Harold Stokes, Gilbert Bannister, Ronnie Latham, Lee Burton, Gene Burton, Kenneth Norwood, and Terry Burton participated. Rev. Lamar Smith closed in prayer. Rev. Wayne Revisky was pastor. Rev. Earl Mosteller served as interim pastor from April 1984 until September 1984. Dr. Billy Taylor assumed duties as pastor on September 9, 1984. George Trammell was ordained as a deacon on Sunday night, October 14, 1984. Rev. Billy L. Taylor preached the ordination sermon. Deacons taking part in the service were Terry Burton, Eston Purdy, Gene Burton, Don Mitchell, Kenneth Norwood, Lee Bowman, Ray Burton, Claude Mitchell, Harold Stokes, James Smith and Lee Burton. Ronnie Latham served as interim music director from 1985 - 1986. Julia Burton served as music director and interim music director from 1985 - 1994. Alton Blackwell was ordained as a deacon on October 13, 1985. Dr. Billy Taylor preached the ordination sermon. Ten active and inactive deacons of the church participated in the laying on of hands. On November 10, 1985, the mortgage was burned during Homecoming services. The church was debt free. Former pastors, Rev. B. F. Turner, Rev. C. J. Hampton and Rev. Larry Cox spoke at the service. Also speaking were Rev. Lamar Smith and Rev. Kirt Mitchell who were ordained by Rocky River Baptist Church to the ministry. Terry Ferguson was elected to serve as a deacon and was ordained in 1987. In April 1988, a TV and VCR were purchased with monies from a love offering and donations. New Hymnals were purchased in April 1987 with donated monies. On April 22, 1990, the church voted to install a wheelchair ramp. On November 25, 1990, Dr. Billy Taylor submitted a letter of resignation effective December, 1990 to accept a pastorate to Temple Baptist Church in Ninety-Six, SC. Rev. Vernon Landreth was called as interim pastor on February 10, 1991 serving until June 1991 when he resigned due to health problems. Rev. Earle Mosteller was called again to serve as interim pastor in July 1991 serving until June 1992. Lee Bowman and Verdelle Brock were elected to replace Terry Ferguson and Billy Purdy who were rotating off the Board of Deacons for 1990 - 1991. On April 17, 1992, the church voted to purchase a new communion set and to purchase an ice machine using funds given in memory of Mr. Verdelle Brock to go toward this purchase. The ice machine would be in memory of Mr. Brock. On June 19, 1992 after preaching a three day revival at Rocky River, Rev. Dan Newton was elected as pastor and served until August 22, 1993 when he resigned to accept the pastorate of Piedmont Baptist Church. Alan Smith was elected as a deacon and was ordained on October 1992. Stephen Blackwell was elected to serve as a deacon and was ordained on October 6, 1991 at Rocky River. In July 1993, the church voted to move the old church sign to another location and purchase a new lighted sign with funds donated in memory of Mr. J. D. Jones who served as a deacon and church treasurer for many years. The sign was dedicated to Mr. Jones. The old church sign was moved to a new location near the corner of the cemetery and dedicated to the memory of Mr. Lee Burton, a faithful member and deacon until his death in September 1993. On April 17, 1994, the church elected Mrs. Laura Brown as music director, serving until 1998. In February 1994, the sound system was moved to the rear of the church. Memorials given to the church in memory of Mr. Lee Burton who died in September 1993 were donated for this project. On July 10, 1994, the church voted to set up and Emergency Relief Fund. On September 11, 1994, a new 15 passenger van was purchased. Dr. Dave Pyatt was elected as pastor on September 20, 1994 serving until July 14, 1996 Leaving to accept another pastorate in Walhalla, SC. On September 18, 1994, Miss Wanda Jane Burton was ordained to the ministry at Genter Park Baptist Church, Richmond, VA. Wanda became pastor of Menokin Baptist Church in Virginia in 1995. On March 26, 1995, the church voted to buy a camcorder and tripod to use for a shut-in ministry. The church voted to purchase a TV/VCR on June 11, 1995. On August 18, Rev. Bob Philyaw was elected interim pastor and served until January 1997. During church conference on July 2, 1996, the church elected the following as a building committee: Sue Burton, Brenda Metz, Gerald Burton, Travis Burriss, Carl Alley, and Terry Burton. On August 18, 1996, Carl Alley removed his name from the committee and Russell Smith was elected to fill that position. On October 6, 1996 the church voted to accept the plans and bids for the building addition to the social hall and new carpet for the church. A ground breaking ceremony was held on October 20, 1996. The oldest church member, Mr. Harold Stokes, and the youngest member, Brian Hanks, participated. Rev. Don Smith was elected as pastor and began serving on January 15, 1997 On April 13, 1997, the dedication service for the new social hall addition was held with a covered dish lunch following the service. Mark Burton, Tim Hamby, and Ray Burton were nominated to serve as deacons for a three year term on September 28, 1997 and the church voted by written ballot. They were elected to replace the three men rotating off the Board of Deacons. Mark and Tim were ordained on October 26, on October 26, 1997. Brock Smith began duties as minister of music in March 1998 serving until March 12, 2000. Julia Burton, Alan Smith, and Russell Smith served as interim music directors until August 25, 2002 when Alan Smith was elected as the part-time music director and continues to serve a the present time. On April 2, 2000, Rev. Don Smith resigned as pastor effective April 23, 2000 to accept a pastorate at Dorchester Baptist Church in Belton, SC. On May 21, 2000, Rev. Bobby Jones was elected as interim pastor serving until August 2001. On January 28, 2001 the church voted to install a new fire and burglar alarm system. On July 22, 2001, Rev. Brian Gray was elected as pastor beginning duties on August 19, 2001. On September 8, 2002, John Looney was elected to serve as a deacon and was ordained by the church. On October 27, 2002, the church voted on recommendation of the Building Committee and the deacons to proceed with proposed upgrades to the church building and grounds, to include chandeliers and can lighting for the sanctuary, replacing carpet in the basement, painting all paneling, replacing carpet in the back part of the church and upstairs. Also included were other repairs and upgrades to the building, resurfacing parking lot, asphalting secondary parking lot and the road around the cemetery. A Bicentennial committee was elected on March 3, 2002 to plan the church's celebration. Members elected were Eston Purdy, Billy Purdy, Esta Burton, Julia Burton, Louise Looney, Joyce McCullough, Gladys Davenport and Carole Smith. A week-long celebration was planned by the committee to begin on October 12, 2003 and end on October 19, 2003. Old fashioned dress is encouraged for October 12. Guest speaker is to be Rev. Albert Hudson who was pastor from 1996-1968. All former pastors, former interim pastors and former music directors are to be invited. There will be special music at each service with an afternoon of music featuring church members and former members, fellowship and renewing old friendships being planned for October 18, 2003. Updated church history, commemorative plates, old pictures and old church records will be displayed. A concert featuring The New Born Singers will be October 19, 2003. A covered dish dinner will be held following services on October 12th and October 19, 2003. Pastor appreciation day was held on August 17, 2003 to honor our pastor, Rev Brian Gray, his wife, Wendy, and children, Dakota and Cheyanne. Travis Burriss, chairman of deacons, presided at the surprise service. Two young people spoke of the impact our pastor has made on their lives since he came to Rocky River and began a youth group on Sunday nights, including plans for a mission trip to Arizona in the summer of 2004 to work with Dottie Hill, missionary to the Navajo Indians. Two deacons and two women spoke also in love and appreciation for the dedication of our pastor. Our Sunday school has grown and 32 new church members have been added in the two years Rev. Gray has been pastor. Ten people were baptized in August of 2002 at Lake Secession due to the drought and the low water levels in the church well preventing filling the baptismal pool. On Easter Sunday 2003 we had two more baptisms; with two more candidates waiting for baptism. God has blessed Rocky River Baptist Church in a might way over the past 200 years. There have been good years and bad years but the church has continued its presence and ministry in the community. There have been hundreds of faithful, dedicated members who have served God at Rocky River since 1803. The deacons serving in the 2002 - 2003 church year are Travis Burriss, Chairman, John Looney, Tim Hamby, Gene Burton, George Trammell, Eston Purdy and Terry Ferguson. Jimmy Parnell, Billy Purdy, and Terry Burton were elected on September 7, 2003 to replace Travis Burriss, Terry Ferguson, and George Trammell who are rotating off. Eston Purdy was elected church treasurer in 1982 due to the resignation of J. D. Jones who had served in the position for many years. Mr. Purdy served until 1997. Sue Burton was elected in 1997 and serves as treasurer at the present time. George Trammell is the assistant treasurer. Eston Purdy served as church clerk from 1953 until 1967. Linda Stokes served from 1967 until 1976. Sybil Mitchell served from 1976 until 1987. Sue Burton served from 1987 until 1993. Margie Trammell served from 1993 - 1996. Pattie Burriss served from 1996 until 2003. Linda Burton will begin duties as church clerk in October 2003. Since purchasing the organ in 1969, the following have served as organists: Janie Lockaby, Teresa Smith Wiles, and Jean L. Bannister and at present, Margie M. Trammell. The church membership at this time was 295 with a Sunday school enrollment of 113. The church has an active Men's Ministry and WMU. The oldest living member of our church, at that time, was Mrs. Eunice Loftis and the youngest was Dakota Gray. TOMBSTONE TRANSCRIPTION NOTES: ------------------------------ a. = age at death b. = date-of-birth d. = date-of-death h. = husband m. = married p. = parents w. = wife NOTES: a.) Normally only the names of adults have been recorded. b.) Tombstone inscriptions recorded in 1960's by Ross M. Smith. c.) Document not proofread - typo errors may exist. ALEWINE M. Parker b.04-14-1873 d.03-28-1957 ANDERSON Alkie Etheridge b.09-08-1890 d. BALEY J.M. b.07-11-1835 d.12-18-1892 BEARD Savannah b. d.05-02-1920 BELL William Pedigrew b.11-10-1866 d.04-08-1945 BISHOP Emer L. b.01-05-1876 d.12-18-1906 BLANCHETT D.J. b.03-20-1849 d.07-20-1907 BLANCHETT Emily J. b.05-18-1854 d.06-09-1934 BLANCHETT Henry I. b.03-12-1858 d.11-11-1945 BLANCHETT J.J. b.04-28-1843 d.12-03-1922 BLANCHETT T.A. b.02-18-1848 d.10-16-1907 BOYD Sarah Catherine b.03-23-1841 d.02-24-1918 BRAZELL Annie b.10-08-1894 d.11-04-1927 BRYAN Kenneth I. b.11-27-1880 d.06-30-1940 BRYAN Luvina B. b.03-28-1880 d.08-01-1957 BURROWS Emma Gailey b. d.01-12-1936 CAIN Horace J. b.01-12-1897 d.01-28-1925 CAIN James Andrew b.06-01-1869 d.04-11-1948 CAIN Mary Evelym b.11-02-1873 d.03-08-1939 CAIN Mason C. b. d.02-28-1926 CAIN Wayman b.05-07-1895 d.11-11-1915 CAMPBELL Hattie H. b.10-30-1876 d.08-13-1906 CAMPBELL W. Lee b.02-23-1872 d.08-31-1950 CRITTENDON Louise b.07-22-1913 d.04-05-1940 DANIEL R.A. b.6-28-1843 d. 10-2-1878 DANIEL Rosalee b.3-4-1874 d. 12-8-1902 ELMORE Alma E. b.9-17-1896 d.9-10-1919 ETHERIDGE Eva Lee b.12-31-1888 d.1-15-1915 ETHERIDGE Forest b.10-25-1890 d.8-21-1911 ETHERIDGE Joel Fenton b.1858 d.1934 ETHERIDGE William W. b.1861 d.1938 ETHERIDGE William Wade b. d.10-1-1910 FERGERSON Carrie b.1-20-1842 d.8-23-1924 FERRELL A.J. b.1889 d.1960 GABLE Cora b.01-11-1875 d.10-07-1948 GABLE Elizabeth b.1847 d.1897 GABLE Henry G. b.03-25-1898 d.03-02-1955 GABLE James L. b.1847 d.1932 GABLE John A. b.10-29-1878 d.05-05-1943 GABLE Mary Jane b.1862 d.1946 GAILEY Alfred B. b.12-05-1860 d.08-11-1918 GAILEY Eliza A. b.1835 d.09-23-1835 GAILEY Emma Tate b.10-12-1858 d.03-10-1936 GAILEY J.P. b.12-26-1900 d.04-28-1925 GAILEY Joe J. b.01-05-1866 d.10-26-1924 GILBERT Thelma J. b..07-14-1938 d.09-12-1955 GILLILAND James Franklin b.09-07-1870 d.06-11-1931 GILLILAND Sara Frances b.09-20-1897 d.02-05-1918 HALL Ann b.1854 d.1930 HALL Bartley D. b.1834 d.1902 HALL Bessie b.06-19-1873 d.12-25-1958 HALL Carl b.1900 d.1941 HALL Donald b.07-19-1917 d.03-09-1952 HALL E. Jane b.05-24-1848 d.12-23-1902 HALL Elizabeth b.11-04-1831 d.10-04-1905 HALL Ezekiel b.10-25-1792 d.06-16-1892 HALL Ezekiel (Sr) b.11-29-1850 d.05-17-1912 HALL Frances S. b.10-09-1870 d.04-29-1918 HALL Jessey b.08-20-1917 d.04-03-1904 HALL John E.M. b.1868 d.1940 HALL Louvenia b.08-09-1860 d.07-12-1911 HALL Mark C. b.1853 d.1905 HALL Polly b. d.03-04-1836 HALL Rossie L. b.1860 d.1918 HALL Thomas A. b.1863 d.1932 HALL W. Ezekiel b.07-11-1893 d.07-07-1955 HAMPTON Carolyn b.09-27-1850 d.01-05-1922 HAMPTON Clayton J. (Rev) b.1871 d.1938 HAMPTON J.B. b.06-10-1845 d.11-06-1925 HAMPTON James H. b.06-06-1874 d.03-22-1916 HAMPTON Texie T. b.1876 d.1947 HAMPTON Thomas E. b.11-29-1840 d.04-23-1900 HANKS A. Frank b.06-24-1848 d.04-15-1931 HANKS C.P. (Jr) b.09-12-1903 d.11-28-1929 HANKS Charlie P. b.1879 d.1961 HANKS J. Martin b.11-21-1873 d.05-07-1911 HANKS Mary Etta b.07-19-1875 d.05-07-1930 HANKS Susannah b.1849 d.1919 HANKS W.A. b.1844 d.1919 HANKS Wade Martin b.01-06-1903 d.08-01-1923 HAULBROOKS John A. b.02-22-1886 d.03-24-1963 HAULBROOKS Theodore R. b.04-24-1914 d.01-14-1962 JONES Archie L. b.09-03-1915 d.11-29-1936 LAWLESS Tiney B. b.12-02-1837 d.09-26-1898 LEVERETT B. Evaline b.09-04-1861 d.01-08-1923 LEVERETT William Harvey b.10-27-1863 d.02-20-1933 McADAMS George Alphonso b.1871 d.1928 MCCULLOUGH Ziner L b.04-09-1860 d.09-05-1929 McKEE Andrew b.08-31-1838 d.07-21-1885 McKEE Elizabeth Ann b.05-09-1808 d.11-20-1889 McKEE J.R. Oliver. b.02-07-1870 d.05-09-1910 McKEE J.T. b.02-16-1831 d.01-17-1886 McKEE James b.10-10-1810 d.09-20-1895 McKEE Jese Reid b.1900 d.1964 McKEE Jessie Campbell b.1896 d.1957 McKEE Margaret L. b.08-24-1835 d.06-21-1890 McKEE Mary Angaline b.09-25-1855 d.10-26-1923 McKEE Sarah b.03-14-1810 d.05-15-1885 McMAHAN Anna Stark Miller b.06-12-1853 d.01-01-1944 McMAHAN John b. b. d.02-17-1895 McMAHAN Keziah b.08-26-1834 d.02-16-1904 McMAHAN Millie J. b. 05-01-1829 d.03-13-1922 McMAHAN Nancy A. b. d.11-22-1891 McMAHAN Tilmon L b.12-12-1856 d.09-04-1916 McMAHAN W.L. b.08-12-1831 d.08-27-1903 MILFORD Jemima b.01-14-1881 d.03-29-1922 MILFORD Margaret b. d. MILFORD Nancy E. b.1821 d.1836 MILFORD Thomas W. b.08-24-1851 d.11-24-1916 MILFORD William Leo b.10-20-1886 d.01-20-1947 MITCHELL James C. b.1911 d.1958 MITCHELL John R. b.05-20-1892 d.10-12-1940 MITCHELL Roy Wilson b.03-08-1918 d.07-12-1963 MOORE Ellen Milford b.08-08-1917 d.06-08-1943 MORGAN Fanie b.06-26-1868 d.01-31-1907 MORGAN Fannie b.1805 d.06-11-1881 MORGAN Sallie b.1828 d.03-??-1870 MORRISON E.J. b.03-21-1851 d.05-14-1929 MORRISON H.A. b.06-03-1876 d.04-25-1927 MORRISON H.W. b.11-01-1864 d.07-09-1923 MORRISON Samantha b. d.11-16-1915 MORROW G. Lester b.1884 d.1959 MORROW Nell I. b.1891 d.1940 NELSON J.M. b.1872 d.1926 NELSON Lula S. b.1879 d.1963 NEWELL Isaiah J. b.07-05-1839 d.01-25-1869 NEWELL Reuben O. b.05-05-1827 d.04-17-1871 NEWELL William B. b.10-08-1819 d.09-26-1884 NIXON Julia Mae b.09-28-1881 d.10-30-1918 PATTERSON Margie b.01-07-1896 d.01-25-1938 PHILLIPS Louis b.1904 d.1959 PURDY E. Eugene b.1896 d.1943 PURDY Hattie Jane b.12-01-1880 d.05-13-1960 PURDY John Lawrena b.10-11-1878 d.12-27-1933 PURDY M. Caroline b.1853 d.1937 PURDY Robert H. b.07-29-1872 d.07-09-1947 PURDY Rosalee b.07-07-1882 d.01-10-1928 PURDY Samuel A. b.06-06-1843 d.11-07-1936 PURDY Sylvester B. b.1876 d.1942 PURDY William S. b.05-28-1875 d.07-01-1948 ROBINSON Nancy N. b.02-01-1891 d.08-04-1917 ROE Rufus b.05-10-1858 d.08-01-1901 SCOGGINS Lila Mae b.05-03-1913 d.06-21-1963 SIMPSON ? b.08-19-1956 d.01-09-1917 SIMPSON Cassie A. b. d.02-08-1926 SIMPSON Dora b.03-06-1883 d.07-01-1907 SIMPSON Emily b.10-17-1832 d.11-14-1903 SIMPSON J.C. b.03-14-1849 d.04-08-1940 SIMPSON M.J. b.04-13-1843 d.11-01-1914 SIMPSON Mary J. b.06-20-1834 d.06-21-1900 SIMPSON Mittie b.1899 d.1959 SIMPSON T.S. b.06-20-1874 d.04-02-1924 SPOON Fannie T. b.09-29-1860 d.06-15-1939 SPOON Milton W. b.05-05-1835 d.07-24-1897 SPOON Preston E. b.01-30-1863 d.09-05-1921 STARK Fannie E. b.09-14-1833 d.04-27-1890 STOKES John P. b.07-28-1877 d.05-28-1959 TAYLOR John T. b.1871 d.1950 TAYLOR Nora Simpson b.1876 d.1957 THORNTON Rubena Gable b.1913 d.1950 TODD Henry P. b. d.1929 TODD Lucy Estell b.10-15-1880 d.10-15-1956 TODD Molly H. b. d.06-04-1927 TUCKER Lula G. b.07-12-1885 d.06-30-1963 TUCKER S.E. (Rev) b.02-17-1893 d.06-28-1952 WHITMAN July Ann b.03-23-1836 d.08-26-1896 WHITNER Andrew b.10-21-1833 d.05-18-1916 YOUNG Susan E. b.08-05-1830 d.12-28-1919