Our History
Bruceville Community Church was founded in 1960 by four Spirit-filled believers: Pastor Bruce Rodgers and his wife, Jimmie, along with Jim Gazaway and his wife, Joyce. The first gatherings were held in the Gazaway home before the growing congregation moved into a building on the east side of Interstate 35. In 1973, the church purchased nine acres on the west side of I-35 and built the iconic “round” sanctuary that still serves as our worship center today. Soon after, the Fellowship Hall (a gymnasium) was added to support church activities and outreach.
The founding pastor, Bruce Rodgers, faithfully led the church from 1960 until his passing in 2002. In 1997, Truman “Butch” Hargrove was appointed Assistant Pastor and later became Senior Pastor upon Pastor Rodgers’ death, serving until his own passing in 2009. Lee Casey became Assistant Pastor in 2008 and was appointed Senior Pastor following Pastor Butch’s death. He served until 2012, stepping down along with his wife, Amy, to attend Rhema Bible College in Oklahoma. Lloyd “Bubba” Strickland—who had long served in various capacities and had helped lead services—was appointed Senior Pastor in 2012. In December 2016, he transitioned into the role of Associate Pastor. Lee and Amy Casey returned to lead the church in January 2017. After faithfully pastoring for several years, they have since stepped away from the role. Today, Pastor Lloyd “Bubba” Strickland serves as the Senior Pastor of Bruceville Community Church, continuing a legacy of Spirit-filled leadership and deep commitment to the community.