Our Staff

Meet the wonderful people who serve First United Methodist Church in the

many ministries that we share with our congregation and the Magnolia Community!

  • Reverend Kenny Lee, Pastor

    On staff since 2023

    Phone: 870-234-4530 ext. 102

    Favorite Scripture:  John 21:17 "A third time Jesus said, 'Simon, son of John, do you love me?' Peter was sad because Jesus asked him three times, 'Do you love me?' He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you!” Jesus said to him, 'Take care of my sheep.'" 

    Favorite Person from the Bible: Peter

    Favorite Food: Steak

    Hobbies: Learning to do new things by watching YouTube

    A fun fact about me is: My childhood nickname was...Preacher

  • Shelly Burgess, Director of Children and Families Ministries

    Email: shellyb@magnoliafumc.org

    Phone: 870-949-1818

    On Staff Since: 2017

    Favorite Scripture: "Be still, and know that I am God!" Psalm 46:10

    Favorite Person from the Bible: Peter

    Favorite Food: Chocolate

    Hobbies: Genealogy

    A fun fact about me is: I am a licensed contractor in the state of Arkansas. I also love essential oils!

  • Anne Gant, Administrative Secretary

    Email: secretary@magnoliafumc.org

    Phone: (870) 904-0760

    On Staff since 2024

    Favorite Scripture: Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things because Christ gives me the strength."

    Favorite Biblical Character: Jesus

    Favorite Food: Chocolate

    Fun Fact: I've been going to Razorback games since I was 2 years old.

  • Kim Shirey, Director of Music

    Email: klshirey@att.net

    Phone: 870-904-3546

    On Staff Since: 2003

    Favorite Scripture: Psalm 91:4 "He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge."

    Favorite Person from the Bible: Paul

    Favorite Food: Pizza

    Hobbies: Working in the yard

    A fun fact about me is: My father and my son have the same birthday.

  • B Edwards

    Email: youth@magnoliafumc.org

    Phone: (870) 390-9252

    Favorite Scripture: Isaiah 61:3 "to provide for those who mourn in Zion— to give them a garland instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit. They will be called oaks of righteousness,  the planting of the Lord, to display his glory."

    Favorite Food: Chicken

    Hobbies: Gardening

    Fun Fact: I take backroads whenever I have an option.

  • Sharon Ard, Organist

    Email: sharonard@yahoo.com

    Phone: 870-814-8574

    On Staff Since: February 2018

    Favorite Scripture: All of Song of Songs chapter 2. Favorite verse from that chapter is verse 6, "His left hand is under my head and His right arm embraces me."

    Favorite Person from the Bible: Ruth

    Favorite Food: Fresh seafood

    Hobbies: Reading, music, swimming, hiking, Pilates, gym

    A fun fact about me is: I have hiked the Inca Trail!

  • Barbra Lewis, Director of The Caring Place

    Email: barbarafumc@sbcglobal.net

    Phone: 870-949-5088

    On Staff Since: 2008

    Favorite Scripture: Philipians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

    Favorite Person from the Bible: King David

    Favorite Food: Chocolate

    Hobbies: Music and golf

    A fun fact about me is: I am the second of 4 generations currently members of First United Methodist Church.

  • Stephen Biddle, Custodian

    On staff since 2026

    Phone: 870-949-1783

    Favorite Scripture: Philippians 4:13 "I can endure all these things through the power of the one who gives me strength."

    Favorite Person from the Bible: Job

    Favorite Food: Pizza

    Hobbies: Riding my motorcycle and fishing.

    A fun fact about me is: I like to joke around.