Dr. C. B. Billingsley Passes
Assisting two gospel preachers, Ernest Highers and Ward Hoagland, we conducted the funeral services of Dr. C. B. Billingsley of Ft. Smith, Arkansas, September 13.
Dr. Billingsley was an outstanding man. He proved that a person could be tops in the professional world and at the same time be a Christian. He often said, "My business is to live the Christian life, and I practice medicine on the side." That didn't mean he was inferior as a physician far from it, he was superior as a doctor. He was a specialist in a big clinic in Ft. Smith, a specialist that was respected in the medical world. But he never allowed his busy life to keep him from serving God. He never missed any services, unless there was an emergency. All of his patients, doctor associates, nurses, and doctor exchange knew to not call him at the hours of worship on Sunday morning and evening and Wednesday night during Prayer Meeting service. He told them he was worshipping his God at those times and did not want to be disturbed unless absolutely necessary. He meant by that it must be a matter of "life or death."
Few men ever have the influence he had. In addition to his influence in the medical profession, in the city where he lived, he was known throughout the whole church. I am sure that there are very few gospel preachers that didn't know him directly or indirectly. Often you would see his writings in the gospel papers. He loved the truth, and stood for the truth. His presence in an audience was an inspiration to the speaker. I have heard many preachers say that they never spoke to a man that would help them as much as he did. He was very complimentary of the good in an individual; and yet if he thought he could help he would offer criticism. I don't think I ever preached a sermon when he was in the audience, but that he would say something about it—complimenting the good, and pointing out the weaknesses.
Here is a part of the account of his death, that appeared in the Ft. Smith Times Record. "He was active in children's welfare programs. Dr. Billingsley was an active member of the board of the boys club and at the time of his death was an honorary member. He and his sister founded the Southern Christian Home in May 1927 in Ft. Smith. The home is now located at Morrilton. He served as secretary and treasurer of the home for 18 months. Dr. Billingsley was an elder of the Park Hill Church of Christ for 25 years . . . In 1937 he took the initiative in establishing what is now the Midland Boulevard Church of Christ."
I could also add to this that he took the initiative in helping to establish other congregations.
I think the statement made by the funeral director is worthy of mention. He said: "There were very few dry eyes who passed his coffin." That meant men of his own profession, businessmen, friends and members of the church all mourned his passing.
If a busy doctor can attend all services, give time and talent to the church, I am sure we can. I have often said, we need Christian business men—men who will make their Christian influence felt in the community.
"Seek first the kingdom of heaven and its righteousness" and let the world know that is what we are doing. Our lights will be far reaching.