From the very beginning of its humble start, God’s hand has been upon First Free Will Baptist Church of Ozark / Ozark Family Church in a special way. The church was born out of a vision to start a thriving Free Will Baptist Church in one of the fastest-growing areas in Southern Missouri. State Missionary Gary Mitchener, along with his wife Brenda and their three children, Christi, David, and Rebecca, moved to Ozark in May of 1993. Pastor Gary came to this area with a great burden and desire to establish the church.

Forty-eight people gathered together on July 11, 1993, at 1300 S. Third Street. On this special day, after much prayer, hard work, and direction from the Lord, a new church began. The Missouri State Mission Board provided guidance and financial support, along with other churches, women’s auxiliaries, and individuals. The Lord has confirmed His blessing on the work by sending faithful, dedicated people who have been with the Church from the start, and others who have joined later. Many precious souls have been saved, needs met, and prayers answered.

As the church and ministries grew, the need arose for more space. On April 3, 1994, the church relocated at 201 E. Church Street. By this time, the congregation had grown to 100 in attendance. This location provided a sanctuary that seated approximately 275 with a two-story education building and a gymnasium. The church reached self-supporting status on April 11, 1999.

Greg and Kim Smith, along with their two sons, Layton and Daylen, were hired in July 2000 as Associate Pastor of Music and Worship. Greg is a 1992 graduate of Free Will Baptist Bible College, Nashville, TN, where Kim also attended.  In 2007, another son, Caysen, joined the Smith family. Several areas of music ministry have grown since then. Kim joined the staff as Church Secretary in August, 2002.  

Other volunteer Ministry Directors and laypeople have been instrumental in the continued growth of the Church.

In January, 2009, the church purchased the former 84 Lumber Company and 6 acres of property (at 2106 W. Evangel Street, Ozark) at the intersection of 65 and 14 Hwy. The building was remodeled, and services began on March 22, 2015. The church continues to grow with a vision to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the community and around the world. Presently, the church averages about 300 in attendance with plans for continued growth!

In May 2018, we adopted Heritage Campus!  Rev. Gene Crewse, along with his wife, Janie, joined our staff in June, 2018.  Heritage continues to grow and give.  They are a loving family that is excited for what God is doing in our church.

In 2026, a new transition took place as Pastor Gary Mitchener felt the call to semi-retire as Senior Pastor and became the part-time Associate Pastor.

Pastor Kevin Barnett, along with his wife, Jennifer, felt the call to OFC, and the church voted to accept Pastor Kevin as Senior Pastor on March 11, 2026.   

OFC continues to grow with an emphasis on discipleship/evangelism and reaching our community and world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ!