James has been the lead pastor at First Marion since 2017. He has a Master of Divinity Degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry Degree from Beeson Divinity School in Birmingham, Alabama. James began his ministry in 1990 as a youth minister and worked with teenagers until he accepted a… Read More »

Andrew has been on staff at the Worship Pastor since April 2026. He has a Worship Arts degree from Central Baptist College. He has been married to his wife, Mallory, since 2021. They have one son named Bear and a dog named Clyde. He says, “I love being able to lead the church in worship… Read More »

Chris has been on staff since 2023 and has a degree in Psychology from Williams Baptist University and he is currently pursuing an Master of Divinity degree from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has been married to his wife Rachel since 2013 and they have three kids; Elijah, Adilyn, and Olivia. When asked what his… Read More »

Elsie has been on staff as the Children’s Minister since 2023. She has a degree in Psychology from Hannibal-Lagrange University. She has been married to her husband Derrick since 2018 and they have two children; Joy and Hope. Elsie loves creating meaningful, joy-filled experiences where kids genuinely connect with Jesus. Elsie enjoys gardening, photography, and… Read More »

COMMUNITY MISSIONS PASTOR since January 2021, Anthony oversees our church planting pipeline, works with local mission efforts throughout Crittenden County, and serves in our Wednesday night student ministry. Anthony also serves as the Lead Pastor at one of First Marion’s church plants, New Beginnings Baptist Church in the Lakeshore Community.

Misty has been on staff since August 2005. She has a degree in Hospitality Management from Arkansas Tech University. She has been married to her husband Daniel since 2000. They have two daughters; Josie and Sarah. Misty says what she loves most about her job is the people she works with. “I LOVE this staff and… Read More »

Sheila has been on staff since 2023 and she has a degree in General Studies and a minor in Business from Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, Arkansas. She has been married to her husband James since 2002 and they have four children; Rashad(Ebony), Jakyah, James, and Jala. Sheila says what she loves most about her… Read More »

Mallory has been on staff since April 2026. She has a degree in Communication from Central Baptist College. She has been married to her husband Andrew since 2021 and they have one son named Bear. Mallory says she loves documenting everything the church does through photography and social media to reach the community. Mallory enjoys… Read More »

MARION ARTS CENTER ADMINISTRATOR. Lynell oversees our arts program that offers Art, Dance and Music lessons each spring and fall. Art Class is available on Mondays from 4 – 6 p.m. Dance lessons (Jazz, Ballet and Tap) are offered on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. Music lessons (Voice, Guitar, Piano) are offered on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. For… Read More »