Bethel Missionary Baptist Church

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 Bro. Frank Ridgeway was born in Green County, Arkansas, on June 4, 1907, and was ordained to the Gospel Ministry October 30, 1938.  He accepted the Pastorate of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in 1941.  He was her first Pastor.  He worked at secular labor until 1949 when Bethel was able to support him full-time.  Under Bro. Ridgeway's guidance, the congregation continued to grow and a House of Worship was planned and beginning in 1947, lots were purchased in Ferndale, MI, followed by a basement Church.  The "building" program continued through 1965 when the final phase was complete.

In addition to his pastoral work, he was active in places of responsibility of the American Baptist Association (ABA).  From 1952 to 1963, he served as a member of the Missionary Committee of the ABA.  In 1963 he was elected to serve on the Sunday School Committee of the Association.  he also served on the Advisory Council of the Eastern Baptist Youth Encampment.

Bro. Tom Hansen, better known as "Pastor" by most, was born on February 3, 1938 in Cecil Arkansas.  He surrendered to the Call to Preach in 1953 and was Ordained to Preach the Gospel in 1957.  Half of his 56 year ministry was spent as Pastor of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.  He Pastored churches in Arkansas, Indiana,and Michigan.  He served in many elected positions of the Associated Work of the American Baptist Association (ABA) throughout his ministry including Moderator and Parliamentarian of Local and State Associations, Eastern Baptist Family Camp Director, and, Member and Assistant Moderator of the Standing Missionary Committee of the ABA.  He authored a book entitled, "Mission Practicalities" published by Bogard Press.  Under his leadership, Bethel Missionary Baptist Church established a Memorial Trust Fund for the purpose of supporting ABA Missions which is giving to Missions, even in his death.

He will be remembered for his sincere care for God's work and God's people.  Others will remember his passionately delivered sermons and his public stand for God's Truth.  The rest will remember his infections laugh which is now sure to be ringing through the halls of Heaven.

 He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Betty Hansen; Three (3) Sons and their Wives; Five (5) Granddaughters; One (1) Grandson; and Two (2) Great Grandchildren.