Shepherds/Elders

As scripture teaches, the congregation is served/overseen by shepherds/elders who tend the flock (Acts 14:23; 20:17-35; 1 Tim. 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-16; Heb. 13:7,17; 1 Pet. 5:1-4).

Currently we are served by four elders. Others who have served well in past years are Thomas McLemore, Charles Shurtleff, Keith Shurtleff, and Bob Parker.

Following are brief words concerning our current shepherds.

Don Petty

Don became a Christian in 1966 and has been a member at he Southside church since that time along with Jerri, his wife of 60 years.  He served as a deacon for several years before accepting the responsibilities of an elder 15 years ago.  Through prayer and study, he has served as a shepherd of the flock to the best of his abilities, in all areas he feels he's best qualified.  Don has feared God and striven to keep His commandments as is the whole duty of man. Ecc.12:13

George Walker

George and Lori Walker moved to Sulphur Springs in 1988. For several years George served as a deacon, and he has served as a shepherd since 2009. The Walkers are both active in our Bible class program, with George teaching both adults and teenagers and Lori teaching little ones. George and Lori have a servant spirit both toward God and others.

Ken Ford

Ken and Bobbie Ford have been members of this congregation for several years now. They grew up in the panhandle of Texas, and have lived in this area for the last several years. Ken also helps in this congregation as a Bible class teacher and a song leader. The Fords are wonderful examples of love for the Lord, His word, and His people.

Shane Carrington

Shane and Kelly Carrington moved to Sulphur Springs at the beginning of 1999, and he has worked as a local evangelist with Southside since that time. Shane has also served as a shepherd here since 2013. In addition to public teaching at preaching, Shane does multiple private Bible studies with others each week.

Deacons

The congregation is also served by seven deacons (Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:8-13). These are godly, harding working, family men who use their considerable talents to serve well.

Josh Davis

Heath McCraw

Mike Miesse

Casey Phillips

Mitch Ramsey

Jarret Wilson

Evangelist

In addition to serving as a shepherd/elder, Shane Carrington has been working with the congregation as a minister of the gospel for 23 years. In addition to public teaching in our assemblies and Bible classes, he is always available for private Bible studies. He also appreciates sermon requests.