If it hadn’t been for the legacy of Southern Baptist missionaries serving in China, Frank Ling might have lived out his days as a chemist or teacher in his native land.
Known to thousands of South Carolinians for his ready smile and gentle demeanor, Ling will be remembered as a Baptist minister whose kindness and generosity extended to young and old alike. Ling died March 29 at the age of 85.
According to his family, his salvation was ultimately a direct product of the mission work begun in China by Lottie Moon more than a century ago.
Ling received a B.S. in chemistry from the University of Shanghai in 1942. A year later, with his father’s blessing, he escaped on the last plane to leave China before the communist takeover of the country.
In the U.S., he earned two post-graduate degrees at New Orleans Baptist Seminary. He went on to serve the following South Carolina churches: Nixville Baptist; Park Baptist, Rock Hill; Hampton First Baptist; and Moncks Corner First Baptist, where he served as associate pastor and, later, minister to senior adults. He remained active in his ministry even after his official retirement in 1990.
Ling became a naturalized citizen of the United States in 1962. He spoke fervently of his firsthand knowledge of the devastation wrought by communism in his native land, and he reminded congregations and audiences around the world of the abundant freedoms afforded Americans by a democratic government.
Especially dear to Ling were the years that he served on the board of trustees for Connie Maxwell Children’s Home (where his family has requested that memorial gifts be made) during the years 1977-1981 and 1986-1991. He also served as Ombudsman for the state of South Carolina.
Frank Ling’s love of his Lord, his love for his family and fellow man, and his endearing personality were all part of his living testimony. His never-ending patience served as a model not only for the members of his congregations, but also to individuals he met along life’s way. When faced with times of adversity or hardship, his quiet response was always, “God has a way.”
Survivors include his wife, Elaine Long Ling, three children and six grandchildren.