I believe the church is the hope of the world when the church is working right! My bride is Julie and God has blessed us with three super kids (now adults!) ~ and even most recently, our first grandchild (I've got some pictures if you've got some time!). I love all things beach and you'll find me calling the Dawgs in Athens in the Fall! God is doing amazing things here at Dalton First and I'm glad to be part of the team!

I am entrusted to oversee several ministry areas at Dalton First, membership, facilities, Adult Discipleship, and missions. Originally from Michigan, my wife, Elise, and I met at Albion College and we have lived in Georgia since just after our wedding in 2012. After graduating from Candler School of Theology in Atlanta, I have had four other appointments before Dalton First. Elise and I have two kids, Evan and Adaline, and this church is perfect for our family!

I’m a husband, conductor, singer, worshipper, and lifelong learner. Before coming to Dalton First, I served as a music minister at various churches throughout Georgia and Tennessee. As a choir director, I’ve had the privilege of leading performances both locally and internationally, including preparing choirs for appearances at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Outside of music and worship, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, traveling, gaming, grilling out, and cheering on the Atlanta Braves and Alabama Crimson Tide. I share a deep love for music and worship with my wife, Samantha, and together we have a dog named Moe. One of my favorite Bible verses is Matthew 19:26 — “With God, ALL things are possible!”

I’m passionate about helping people connect with God through meaningful worship, creative storytelling, and community engagement. I’m currently studying at Indiana Wesleyan University, and when I’m not working on music or media, you’ll probably find me watching (or quoting) Star Wars for the hundredth time. My wife Christen and I recently moved to Dalton, and we’re excited to call North Georgia home.

Also, War Eagle!

I partner with families to guide children, students, and young adults in their faith development through meaningful experiences and discipleship. You will often see my husband Andrew and daughter Kayleigh serving our church community with me. I almost always have a cup of coffee in my hand. Family ministry is a lifelong calling of mine and I am so blessed to get to walk with families through faith milestones such as receiving their first Bible to celebrating graduations. 

After 38 years of marriage and a lifetime in ministry, Laura and I have recently retired and made the move to Dalton—with Laura’s parents, Larry and Mary Brown, joining us as well. We’re thrilled to be closer to our daughter Elise, her husband Mark, and our grandkids, Evan and Adaline. I’ve served as a United Methodist pastor in the Michigan Conference since 1994, leading churches in a variety of settings, chairing conference committees, and organizing over 20 mission trips to Haiti and Guinea-Bissau. Now, I’m looking forward to rollercoasters, family time, and seeing what God has next.

I'm a mother to four wonderful sons and three incredible grand children. When I'm not at work you'll find me hiking trails, lounging by the pool or watching HGTV. Cooking is one of my love languages and I enjoy sharing my love!

I’m passionate about helping children grow, which led me to earn my Bachelor’s degree in Education from Dalton State College and spend time working as both a teacher and a social worker. Now, I feel blessed to continue that mission in a new way. I come from a close-knit family, with two siblings and my sweet dog Lulu. I love traveling to my hometown in Mexico, spending time outdoors, and being surrounded by the people I love.

I have been lucky to turn my love for learning and play into a career that brings me joy every day. I love getting to be part of shaping little minds and teaching them about the love of Jesus.
I’m a wife, a mom to two amazing (grown) kids, and “Momo” to two precious grandkids.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family-including our dog, who is pretty sure he is one of the humans, being at the beach and cheering on the Bulldogs!

I love helping things run smoothly behind the scenes and supporting our amazing church staff and members.  As a lifelong member of DFUMC, it’s a joy and a blessing to give back to the church that has given so much to me. When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time with my family and going to the beach.  

It is a special blessing to me to be a part of this church with a congregation that truly loves God and actively serves our community. I’ve spent most of my life in this area and currently live in Sugar Valley with my husband.  I’m a proud parent of two and grandparent to three wonderful grandchildren. In my free time, I enjoy taking motorcycle trips, spending time at the beach, and making lasting memories with my family.

I am married and have one son and two step kids. I have 13 grandkids. I also have one furbaby named Bayleigh. I attend Homeland Baptist Church and I love to sing, read, go camping, and spend time with my family. 

In February, I will begin my 30th year at Dalton First. I am very passionate about keeping the church clean, making sure all activities are taken care of, and fulfilling any need that our church has. I enjoy spending time with my daughter, going to the beac, and watching sports.