Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."
About Us
Our History
North View Baptist Church History
Founding of North View Baptist Church (1876-1900)
The earliest known history of North View Baptist Church dates back to1876 when a group of believers from New Grove Baptist Church in Lunenburg County, Virginia were led to organize a church in Mecklenburg County. The congregation first worshipped humbly under a bush arbor, trusting God to bless the fruit of their labor.
On August 4, 1876, Brother Ashby Lee Ogburn, motivated by his devotion to Christian faith, deeded one-half acre of land to Brothers Mumford Simmons, Albert Ogburn and Warren Ogburn, and their successors in trust, for the purpose of erecting a building a Baptist church. In later years, the Ogburn family donated two additional acres of land located behind the present edifice. The original deed is recorded in the Clerk’s Office in Boydton, Virginia.
It is believed that Reverend William Miller of Union Level, Virginia served as the first pastor, followed by Reverend J. W. Thomas, both of whom served faithfully during the church’s early formative years.
The earliest official church records date back to 1893 when the following officers were elected:
§ Reverend J. W. Thomas, Pastor
§ Brother H. L. Whittle, Church Clerk
§ Brother Albert Ogburn, Treasurer
§ Brother Robert Coleman, Sexton
Reverend J. W. Thomas served until 1894, after which Reverend N. C. Bagby was elected pastor in 1895. Reverend Bagby served faithfully and untiringly until 1900 guiding the congregation through years of perseverance and spiritual growth.
Early Growth and Development (1901-1952)
In 1901, Reverend G. D. Wharton accepted the pastorate.
Despite many struggles and hardships, the faithful congregation remained steadfast in prayer, united in purpose, and committed to advancing the Kingdom of God. A physical church building was erected in the early 1900’s, marking a significant milestone in the church’s history. From 1902 through 1952, the following preachers served as pastor:
§ Reverend L. N. Wilson
§ Reverend R. W. Eubanks
§ Reverend J. J. Wood
§ Reverend A. L. Williams
During the tenure of these devoted pastors the church continued to grow spiritually, structurally, and influentially within the community.
Reverend Carl Jones Era (1953 – 1971)
In 1953, a new chapter in the church’s history began with the arrival of Reverend Carl Jones of Kenbridge, Virginia, being called to serve as pastor. During his faithful leadership, the church experienced both spiritual enrichment and physical improvements. Deacons serving during Reverend Jones’s pastoralship were Wesley Whittle, Samuel L. Stone, Roosevelt Miles, Daniel Walker, Edmond Jones, Harold Taylor and Richard Holmes. Lillian Miles, Illinoy Whittle, Cora Stone, Ora Taylor and Beatrice Holmes served as deaconesses.
During Reverend Jones’ pastorate, the church installed its first heating system, acquired a piano, organ and organized the Youth Choir to enhance the worship services. Reverend Jones personally rendered beautiful musical service, faithfully serving on both the piano and the organ.
Worship service during this period was held on the Third Sunday of each month at 11:30 a.m.
Reverend Jones’s tenure ended in 1971 leaving a legacy of dedication, song service and uplifting messages.
Reverend Dr. Arthur A. Brown Era (1972 – 2002)
In 1972, Reverend Arthur A. Brown of Henderson, North Carolina was elected pastor. During his leadership, North View experienced tremendous growth spiritually, structurally, and ministerially. Worship services expanded from one Sunday a month to First and Third Sundays each month. A weekly Bible Study and a Youth Ministry were instituted.
Sons and daughter of the church serving during Reverend Brown’s tenure, were Reverend Herman Lundy, Reverend Issac Saunders and Minister Ercelle Holmes.
The church’s leadership was strengthened with the addition of Deacons Claude Piercy and Russell Sallie, and Deaconesses Louise Piercy, Rosa Sallie and Claudia Lundy.
Significant physical improvements were made to the church including the installation of frosted-glass windows and indoor restrooms. In 1976, the church proudly celebrated its One Hundredth Anniversary, during which time a special project was launched to build a new edifice.
Despite challenges, the congregation remained faithful and pressed on. On October 25, 1987, a Dedication Service was held for the new edifice. The original steeple, bell and pews were transferred to the new building. The pews were upgraded with cushions and armrests, new pulpit furniture was purchased, and the church was blessed with donated playground equipment for the youth. Reverend Brown earned his Doctorate Degree and continued to serve faithfully until his retirement in 2002.
Reverend Cornelius Tisdale and Evangelist Fannie C. Tisdale served as Associate Ministers.
Interim Period (May 2002 – July 2002)
Following Reverend Brown’s retirement, North View experienced a brief interim without a pastor. During this time Deacon Harold Taylor, Chairman of the Deacon Board, served as leader of the congregation The congregation remained prayerful, faithful, united and trusted God to send the needed under-shepherd.
Reverend Robert L. Faulcon, Sr. Era (2002 – Present)
Reverend Robert L. Faulcon, Sr. of Littleton, North Carolina preached his first sermon at North View in July 2002. He was formally elected pastor in September 2003 and was installed as the eleventh pastor of North View on March 28, 2004. During his visionary leadership, the church immediately began to flourish both physically and spiritually.
All auxiliary heads are referred to as Spiritual Leaders.
New ministries were established, including:
§ Nurse’s Ministry
§ Pastor’s Aide Ministry
§ Junior Missionary Ministry
§ Mother/ Deaconess Ministry
§ Youth Ministry
§ Music and Sound Ministry
§ Summer Youth Institute
Accomplishments & Ministry Growth
· New roof on the church
· Paved parking lot
· New heating and air system
· Purchased new generator and upgraded PA system
· Added musical instruments to include drums, guitar, and piano
· Restroom constructed in the basement
· Technology upgrades including computers, internet, satellite dish, monitors, security systems, and website
· Refinished floors in the sanctuary and basement
· Received donation of a 15-passenger bus
· Construction of a bus shed
The ministries remain active and the congregation continues to give God praise for the mighty works He enables us to do.
North View also became a lifetime member of the NAACP reflecting its commitment to faith and community advocacy.
Additional improvements followed in later years to include laying of sidewalks, parking lot repairs, drainage systems, brick entrance columns and a new digital marquee erected in March 2022.
North View joyfully celebrated the life of Mother Virginia “Estelle” Phillips Bell on her 111th birthday in January 2024. She was the church’s oldest member, the oldest registered voter in Mecklenburg County, and the oldest citizen in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Clergy & Leadership Additions
Added deacons during this era include Thomas Bullock, Benjamin Pinckney, and Shannon Phillips. New deaconesses include Jenny Jacox, Stella Bullock, Janice Pinckney, Theresa Phillips, Annie Kersey, Gladys Lee and Josephine Ponton.
Mae Robinson was added to the Mother/Deaconess Ministry. Donnie Jackson was ordained as a deacon on December 30, 2018, and his wife, Kate Jackson, was added as a deaconess.
On October 8, 2023, Marvin L. Rainey and Clarence G. Baskerville, Sr. were ordained as deacons, with Mona B. Rainey and Julia P. Baskerville added as deaconesses.
On November 18, 2023, Dr. Michael S. Evans and Robert Puryear were ordained as Ministers, and Deborah Puryear was added to the Mother/ Deaconess Ministry. In 2025, Mary Thomas, Honorie Whittle, and Madeline Puryear were added to the Mother/Deaconess Ministry.
Keith Hayes preached his initial sermon and was licensed as a Minister on October 26, 2025.
Construction Projects & Facility Improvements
In December 2016, a groundbreaking ceremony kicked off the construction for the above-ground fellowship hall. A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held on September 30, 2017, followed by the Dedication Service on October 1, 2017.
The congregation was further blessed to celebrate the Mortgage Burning Ceremony of the fellowship hall on July 15, 2018…. giving God praise for financial freedom. The church body concluded 2025 with plans to begin upgrades to the sanctuary.
COVID-19 Adaptation
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, in-house worship services were suspended. However, worship continued through teleconference services, allowing members both near and far to remain spiritually connected.
The congregation returned to in-person worship in the sanctuary on the first Sunday of March 2022. Bible Study continues to be held on Tuesday evening via Free Conference Call.
In Loving Memory
With grateful hearts, we continue to honor the memory of our ancestors through prayer, remembrance, and reflection on their legacy.
In November 2025, the North View Church family humbly mourned the passing of Mother Virginia “Estelle” Phillips Bell at the age of 111 years and 10 months. Her faithful presence and remarkable life remain a cherished part of North View’s history and legacy.
Current
In February 2026, we embarked upon the complete upgrade of the sanctuary - to include painting, new carpet, pews, pulpit and choir furniture, communion and offering table and lecterns. During the upgrade, all services were conducted in the fellowship hall. This project was completed in April, and we resumed services in the sanctuary on the Third Sunday in April. We give God all the glory and praise.
For 150 years, North View Baptist Church stands as a pillar of faith, hope and Christian service. Through every trial, transition, and triumph, God has remained faithful. As we honor our rich heritage, we look forward with expectation to the future God has prepared for us.
“I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who strengtheneth Me “
Philippians 4:13 KJV
In Loving Memory
“Life Reflections”
The earthly phase of a remarkable life ended with the passing of Deacon Claude Melvin Piercy who passed away peacefully at Tyler’s Retreat, Chester, VA on Tuesday, October 29, 2024. Deacon Piercy was born on May 5, 1931in Mecklenburg County, VA to the parentage of the late Claude Piercy and Alma Whittle Piercy Smith. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Hattie Louise Piercy.
“Sonny” as he was affectionately called, took great pride in his lifelong affiliation with service to North View Baptist Church. His dedication to the church was unwavering, as he served as a member of the Trustee Ministry, Sunday School Superintendent, member of the Men’s Choir, and eventually became the esteemed Chairman of the Deacon Ministry.
After graduating from Mecklenburg County Training School in 1949, Sonny answered the call of duty and was drafted into the United States Army. He served proudly in the Korean Conflict and was honorably discharged in 1954. After his tenure in the military, Sonny returned home and married the love of his life, Hattie Louise Simmons of Blackridge, VA.
Sonny’s community involvement over the years included being a member of the VFW Post 7166 in South Hill, Virginia, the Fleur-De-Lis Social Club, and the Keep in Touch Social Club.
Sonny’s appreciation for agriculture, which stemmed from his farming background, blossomed into a passion for raising crops and livestock. As life progressed, Claude became gainfully employed at Kenlea Craft, Virginia Marble, and retired from Homecraft.
After retiring, Claude found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Known as a man of few words, Sonny expressed his love through his actions. He was admired for his strong sense of duty, his easy-going spirit, his quiet strength, and his unwavering willingness to help others. He enjoyed traveling, hosting family gatherings, and gardening whereby he produced an abundance of fruits and vegetables to support other families in the community. He took pride in keeping his plush and beautiful yard properly manicured to resemble a golf course. The sport he cherished the most was bass fishing, and he would always brag about catching the largest fish. Sonny was also a very avid fan of the Dallas Cowboys.
Most noteworthy is that Sonny was an astounding husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother-in-law which any family would be blessed. His love and support for his three sons was constant, unwavering, and unshakable. Though the clouds may hang over, there will be a brighter day, in that land that they call heaven, God shall wipe all tears away. We who remain with faith and assurance that God will see us through are his three devoted, caring, and loving sons- Michael Sr. (Belinda) of Petersburg, VA; Gifford Sr. (Karen) of Fredericksburg, VA; Claude V. (Laura) of Chapel Hill, NC; grandchildren- Michael Jr.; Michelle (Colby); Gifford Jr. (Keona); Kevin and Kellen; great-grandchildren, Malik, Colby Jr., McKenzie, Mari and Iyana; sisters-in-law, Rebecca Mayo, Katherine Boyd, and Virginia Walker; brother-in-law, Russell Newell, Jr. devoted cousin- James Carnell (Geraldine) Newell, and he was an esteemed colleague, mentor, and loyal friend to many.