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.
320 W MAIN ST, MAGNOLIA, AR 71753
(870) 234-4530 • info@examplechurch.com
Office Hours: Mon - Thurs, 8 AM - 4 PM | Fri, 8 AM - 12 PM
Copyright 2026 First United Methodist Church. All Rights Reserved.