Pastor Roger Spradlin
For five decades, Pastor Roger faithfully preached the Word of God, edified the people of Valley Baptist Church, and modeled what it means to lead with conviction, humility, and grace.
From small-town Oklahoma to a ministry that touched the world, Roger’s life was marked by faithfulness to Scripture, devotion to his family, and a heart for the gospel.
Below, you’ll find some milestones that tell his story. From his earliest calling to his final message, you’ll see God’s hand throughout his life.
Early Years in Oklahoma
Born in Elk City and raised on the farmlands of Granite, Oklahoma, Roger learned discipline, humility, and hard work early in life. His mother, Elsie, recalled catching him “preaching” to an empty storm cellar at just six years old—a sign of God’s calling long before anyone knew it. Those humble beginnings shaped the foundation of the man, pastor, and leader he would become.
The Summer That Changed Everything (1972)
In the summer of 1972, at Falls Creek Baptist Camp, Roger rededicated his life to Christ alongside lifelong friend Phil Neighbors. When they returned home, revival broke out in their small town—lasting five nights and resulting in over 100 students coming to Christ. That single week became the spark that ignited Roger’s passion for evangelism and the beginning of a remarkable ministry partnership.
College, Calling, and Courtship
While attending Oklahoma Baptist University, Roger preached multiple youth revivals across Oklahoma and many other states. He later became a youth pastor in a growing and dynamic church in Yukon, Oklahoma.
It was during that time Roger met Ginger East, a young girl from California, during a visit she made to Oklahoma visiting family. After a long distance courtship and several long drives between Oklahoma and California they married in August of 1976.
Early Ministry and Pastoral Growth
After graduation, Roger and Ginger moved to Bakersfield, where he pastored Panama Baptist Church (now Daybreak Baptist Church). Though ministry was fruitful, Roger sensed a need for deeper biblical education. Leaving a thriving church, he and Ginger moved to Dallas, where he studied at Criswell College, graduating Summa Cum Laude. There, his love for God’s Word and commitment to sound doctrine took an even firmer root.
Charity Spradlin
Returning to Bakersfield, Roger began leading First Baptist Church of Oildale. During those early years, tragedy struck with the loss of their daughter, Charity—an event that profoundly shaped Roger’s faith and Valley Baptist Church’s early years. Through heartbreak, Roger and Ginger clung to the promises of God, finding purpose in the pain. Out of that season, Charity Ministries was born—a radio outreach that began taking the gospel far beyond Bakersfield. That ministry would eventually grow into a worldwide broadcast reaching people with the gospel all around the world.
Valley Baptist Church is Born! (1985)
In 1985, two congregations—Hillcrest Baptist and First Baptist Oildale—merged under Roger’s leadership with Pastors Phil Neighbors and Mike Miller. Together, they launched Valley Baptist Church with a simple but profound vision: Biblical Preaching. Small Groups. Evangelism.
What began as a leap of faith soon became one of California’s most vibrant churches, built on unity, Scripture, and a shared passion for reaching people with the gospel.
A Legacy of Growth and Faithfulness
In four decades, Valley Baptist grew from a few hundred members to more than 10,000, baptizing over 10,000 people. The church expanded to more than 60 acres with over 200,000 square feet of facilities and now is debt-free, just as Roger prayed it would be. Every brick, baptism, and ministry milestone reflected his conviction that God blesses the faithful stewardship of His people.
A Church That Multiplies
Under Roger’s leadership, Valley Baptist planted more than 20 churches and launched a strong missionary-sending culture. That early foundation has inspired a new vision under Pastors Andrew, Brian, and Matthew—to plant 100 churches in the years ahead. Roger’s obedience to God’s call set in motion a movement that continues to multiply disciples, leaders, and churches across California and around the world.
Broadcast Ministry: Today’s Walk
Roger’s passion for preaching extended far beyond the pulpit. In 1986, Charity Ministries began as a radio broadcast sharing biblical messages of hope across the region. Two decades later, Today’s Walk was launched in 2006—expanding Roger’s teaching to radio and television audiences worldwide. Through these ministries, Roger’s clear, faithful preaching reached millions and continues to impact lives long after his passing.
Beyond the Pulpit
Though best known as a pastor and preacher, Roger also enjoyed working with his dad on the farm in Oklahoma during family vacations. He also loved breeding award-winning koi fish. Those quiet pursuits reflected the same patience, attentiveness, and delight he brought to ministry—a reminder that faithfulness shows up in the steady rhythms of everyday life.
Family and Faith at Home
Roger loved his family deeply. His wife Ginger, along with their children and grandchildren, were his pride and joy. His home was filled with laughter, stories, and Scripture. He modeled servant leadership not only from the pulpit but in his living room—teaching by example what it means to love God and love people well.
The Final Chapter
In October 2022, Roger was diagnosed with inoperable cancer at the height of his health and ministry. Though his preaching schedule virtually stopped, he delivered two final messages—his last titled “Come Before Winter.” For thirteen months, he faced extreme suffering with courage, peace, and unwavering trust in God. Roger entered eternity after a lifetime of faithfulness—leaving behind a church, a family, and a legacy built on the Word of God.
Pastor Roger finished well.