F.D. Searls (left) was pleased that his father Frank Searls (right) was caught by surprise by the special occasion.

Franklin Searls came to church dressed in western attire on September 22 because a special western themed Sunday had been scheduled at Bethel Baptist Church on Hurricane Creek Road. Everyone was asked to dress western and invited to stay for a barbeque luncheon following the morning service.

Frank did not learn that the barbeque was actually a celebration of his ninetieth birthday until he was received as the guest of honor when he entered the church’s activities building.

He discovered decorated tables featuring photos from his younger days when he worked the family farm with horses. Horses spur many warm childhood memories for Frank.

Following the luncheon, Frank relived his memories by taking the reigns for a short wagon ride in the field adjacent to the church property. The team of horses and wagon was provided by Darrell and Tootie Black. Darrell treated the young and maybe the not so young to wagon rides.