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Meet the Team

We’re Here to Serve You

We are a team of diverse gifts and callings, united by one purpose: to serve the body of Christ. As a sending organization, we are passionate about equipping and encouraging you in your God-given mission—whether that’s in your home, throughout the Golden Triangle, or across the globe.

We believe in walking alongside you as you grow in your relationship with Christ and use the gifts, He’s given you to glorify Him. It’s our joy to serve you and be part of the God-sized task of reaching people with the gospel.

Dr. Andy Brown

Dr. Andy Brown

Senior Pastor

Administration Team

Kim Ware

Kim Ware

Churchwide Ministry Assistant

Linda Blair

Linda Blair

Financial Systems Manager

Danielle James

Danielle James

Administrative Assistant, Family Ministry

Equip Team

Dr. Dave Kruse

Dr. Dave Kruse

Associate Pastor of Equipping

Sarah Joy Price

Sarah Joy Price

Director of Children's Ministry

Kristy Camp

Kristy Camp

Director of Preschool Ministry

Stevie Franks

Stevie Franks

Student Minister

Jimbo Harrell

Jimbo Harrell

College Minister

Missions

Nathan Taylor

Nathan Taylor

Associate Pastor of Missions

Facility Services Team

Clifton Curtis

Clifton Curtis

Associate Pastor of Facilities and Pastoral Care

Tyler Moffitt

Tyler Moffitt

Maintenance Supervisor

Vicki Leach

Vicki Leach

Chef & Hostess

Music & Media Ministry Team

Dr. Thomas “Tom” Jenkins

Dr. Thomas “Tom” Jenkins

Associate Pastor of Music & Media

Andy Smith

Andy Smith

Director of Technology

Julie Hollingsworth

Julie Hollingsworth

Director of Communications and Media

Matt Goller

Matt Goller

Video Specialist

John Mathen “JM” Wierengo

John Mathen “JM” Wierengo

Media Associate

Haley Harper Smith

Haley Harper Smith

Music Ministry Accompanist

Kyle Hickey

Kyle Hickey

Director of Instrumental Ministries

Veronica Leach Hickey

Veronica Leach Hickey

Music Ministry Associate

Lana Hamby

Lana Hamby

Administrative Assistant to the Music Ministry

Deacon Body

At FBC Starkville, our deacons are called to serve with humility, compassion, and faithfulness—modeling the heart of Christ. Their ministry includes providing support and care to the church family, partnering with pastors in prayer and service, and strengthening the spiritual and physical well-being of our congregation.

 

2026-2027 Deacon Body

Steve Montgomery, Deacon Chairman

Bill Burnett | Bill Daniel | Brent Fountain | Brett Brasher | Britt Reynolds | Casey Welch | Christopher Whatley | Clay Armstrong | David Cole | Daniel Herndon | David Cheatham | Gary Blair | Greg Ball | Jay Reed | Justin Davison | Justin Stidham | Kevin Moore | Kevin Armstrong | Keith Miller | Lee Hathcock | Michael Newman | Mike Blake | Rob Fyke | Robbie Faulk | Steve Montgomery | Steve Prestridge | Scott Edwards | Todd Hamby | Ted Ratcliff | Tommy Boren | Terry Kemp

Dr. Timothy Andrew "Andy" Brown, Senior Pastor

abrown@fbcstarkville.com

Andy is passionate about preaching the life-changing truth of God’s Word with a heart rooted in the worthiness of Christ. His desire is to help believers grow as disciples who live out the Great Commission with clarity, humility, and joy.

Andy holds degrees from Truett-McConnell University (A.A.), Kennesaw State University (B.S.), Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div., Th.M.), and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (D.Min.). While in college, he was deeply influenced by the ministry of Dr. Charles Stanley at First Baptist Atlanta, where he embraced the truths of the Exchange Life and our union with Christ—principles that have become foundational to his ministry. Andy had the unique honor of being the last person Dr. Stanley ordained, a moment that continues to shape his calling and legacy.

He is the co-founder of The Emmaus Way, co-editor of its forthcoming volume, and founder of The Starkville Institute, launched in 2021 to train and equip vocational leaders. His leadership is shaped by a deep conviction that God is For Us.

Andy and his wife, Katie, have three children—Adalee, Titus, and Ezra. Together, they seek to create a home marked by love, grace, and gospel-centered hospitality.

Kim Ware, Churchwide Ministry Assistant

kware@fbcstarkville.com

Kim has faithfully served the First Baptist Church family since 2007. Originally from Ridgeland, MS, she brings a strong background in accounting and a servant’s heart to everything she does. She and her husband, Doug, have been married since 1989 and are proud parents of Cody and Lauren, and grandparents to eight wonderful grandchildren. Kim is also an avid outdoorswoman who enjoys hunting, gardening, and caring for her beloved pets. Her steady presence and warm spirit are a gift to our church family.

Linda Blair, Financial Systems Manager

lblair@fbcstarkville.com

Linda has been part of the FBC Starkville family for over 34 years. A native of Goodman, MS, and graduate of Mississippi State University with a degree in accounting, she is a devoted Bulldog fan through and through. She and her husband, Terry, have raised three sons and share a love for animals and faith-filled living. Linda’s reliability, attention to detail, and genuine care for people make her an essential part of our team and a blessing to all who serve alongside her.

Danielle James, Administrative Assistant, Family Ministry

djames@fbcstarkville.com

A Kosciusko native, holds a BBA from Mississippi State University. After over a decade in banking and 20+ years of volunteer service, she entered full-time ministry in 2024. She loves working behind the scenes to support families and make ministry run smoothly. Danielle and her husband, Matthew, enjoy spoiling their nieces and nephews, traveling, and movie marathons. She also loves crocheting, photography, reading, and always has a Diet Dr. Pepper nearby!

Dr. Dave Kruse, Associate Pastor of Equipping

dkruse@fbcstarkville.com

Originally from Franklin, TN, Dave holds a BBA from Belmont University, an MDiv from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a DMin in Church Leadership from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. His heart is for equipping leaders and helping believers grow in both knowledge and character.

With years of pastoral experience in Tennessee and training in leadership development, Dave brings both insight and strategy to his ministry. He is married to Melissa, and they have one son, Noah. In his free time, Dave enjoys playing guitar and reading good books.

Sarah Joy Price, Director of Children's Ministry

sprice@fbcstarkville.com

Sarah Joy Price is passionate about helping kids grow in their love for Jesus. She holds a degree in Elementary Education from Mississippi College and a master’s in Christian ministry from Liberty University. A preacher’s kid, Sarah Joy has taught K–6 and spent the past five years in children’s ministry, including at a church in Dothan, AL. She enjoys embroidery, reading, and hanging out with her dachshund, Toby James.

Kristy Camp, Director of Preschool Ministry

kcamp@fbcstarkville.com

Kristy Camp, originally from Philadelphia, MS, holds a master’s in agriculture and Extension Education. She and her husband, Jason, have lived in Starkville for over a decade with their children, Molly and Briggs. Kristy began as a preschool ministry volunteer in 2012 and stepped into full-time ministry in 2023. With experience in youth leadership and education, she loves creating Christ-centered experiences for preschoolers. The Camp family enjoys lake days, tubing, skiing, and porch reading.

Stevie Franks, Student Minister

sfranks@fbcstarkville.com

Stevie Franks brings over 13 years of student ministry experience and a passion for seeing teens follow Christ. A Philadelphia, MS native, he earned his Master of Divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Before joining FBC Starkville, Stevie served in churches around the Jackson metro area. He and his wife, Haley, have three kids—Judah, Abel, and Lucy. He enjoys basketball, fantasy football, MSU sports, and dreams of more time on the golf course.

Jimbo Harrell, College Minister

jharrell@fbcstarkville.com

Jimbo Harrell is passionate about reaching the 30,000+ college students at MSU and EMCC with the hope of the Gospel. Whether leading Bible studies, sharing coffee conversations, or cheering from the student section, Jimbo walks alongside students as they follow Jesus with boldness.

A proud Mississippi State graduate and former ministry resident at First Baptist Starkville, Jimbo is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Christian Ministry at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Most recently, he served as Student Pastor at First Baptist New Orleans, where he gained valuable experience in discipling young people and leading in the local church.

Jimbo brings a heart for discipleship, leadership development, and authentic community to our college ministry team.

Nathan Taylor, Associate Pastor of Missions

ntaylor@fbcstarkville.com

Originally from Laurel, MS, Nathan holds a B.B.A. in Marketing and an M.S. in Sport Administration from Mississippi State University, along with an M.Div. from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. With a deep love for the nations and a heart for the Great Commission, Nathan is passionate about helping others discover their role in God’s global mission.

Since 2008, he has served in various ministry roles, encouraging the church to engage locally and globally—whether through learning about past missionaries, serving cross-culturally, or participating in local outreach. His desire is to see the body of Christ mobilized and equipped to make a lasting impact for the kingdom.

Nathan and his wife, Ashley, have a daughter, Lainey. He enjoys cheering on Mississippi State, container gardening, and firing up the grill for a good smoked meal.

Clifton Curtis, Associate Pastor of Facilities and Pastoral Care

ccurtis@fbcstarkville.com
Raised on a farm in Winona, MS, he holds degrees from Mississippi State University and a master’s in Christian education from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.

In 1988, Clifton and his wife, Cathy, were appointed as missionaries to Burkina Faso, where they spent 14 years planting churches and discipling the Bissa people through agricultural development. They’ve called FBC Starkville home since 1985 and returned to serve in 2002.

Clifton minsters in areas of pastoral care, senior adults and facilities administration. Today, he helps create a welcoming campus for worship and ministry. He and Cathy have three sons—John Mark, Christopher, and Bradley. Clifton enjoys biking, hiking, traveling, and faithfully serving the church family he loves.

Tyler Moffitt, Maintenance Supervisor

tmoffitt@fbcstarkville.com

Tyler Moffitt, a Louisville, MS native, brings over 15 years of experience in construction, timber, and facilities management. With a background at Moffitt Home Improvements, Chalet, and Southeastern Timber Products, he’s known for excellence and integrity. As Maintenance Supervisor, he’s committed to creating a safe, functional, and welcoming church environment. Tyler graduated from Winston Academy and attended East Mississippi Community College. He and his family live in Louisville, where they are actively involved in their community.

Vicki Leach, Chef & Hostess

chefvicki@fbcstarkville.com

Vicki Leach shares her culinary expertise and gift for hospitality with FBC Starkville. A Mississippi University for Women graduate in Culinary Arts, she worked at Viking Range as lead chef and culinary instructor. She now teaches at Mississippi State University and leads food services at FBC. Known to students as “Chef Vicki,” she’s taught camps for nearly 20 years. A Starkville resident for 45 years, she enjoys life with her husband, four kids, five grandkids, and a house full of pets.

Dr. Thomas “Tom” Jenkins, Associate Pastor of Music

tjenkins@fbcstarkville.com

Tom Jenkins has faithfully led worship and music at FBC Starkville since 2005, blending decades of ministry and academic experience with a deep love for the Lord. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting from the University of Southern Mississippi and has conducted choirs and led worship around the world.

Tom’s career includes faculty roles at California Baptist University, Mississippi State University, and USM. He also serves as an adjunct instructor at MSU and is an active member of the Singing Churchmen of Mississippi.

Married to his wife, Dinah, Tom is a proud father and grandfather. His humility, joy, and passion for worship continue to bless the church and encourage the next generation of musicians.

Andy Smith, Director of Technology

asmith@fbcstarkville.com

Originally from West Point, MS, Andy Smith holds a bachelor’s degree in communications and a master’s in business information systems from Mississippi State University. With more than 15 years in ministry and 26 years in MSU’s IT department, Andy combines his technical expertise with a heart for worship, creating environments where people can connect with God through sound and media.

Andy’s ministry began as a volunteer sound engineer at FBC Starkville and grew out of his early experience with the Fishermen, a worship band at MSU’s Baptist Student Union. He now leads the church’s Technology Ministry, supporting all technical aspects of worship and operations.

Andy’s greatest passion is his relationship with Jesus Christ. He also enjoys playing and building guitars, photography, reading, following MSU sports, and spending time with his wife, Cindy, their four children—Brittany, Kris, Blake, and Dawson—and their grandchildren: Lilla, Sophie, Molly, and Annie.

Julie Hollingsworth, Director of Communications and Media

jhollingsworth@fbcstarkville.com

With over 25 years of experience in corporate marketing and communications, Julie Hollingsworth leads FBC Starkville’s Communications and Media Ministry with creativity, clarity, and a heart for Scripture. A Mississippi native and graduate of Delta State University, Julie’s storytelling is grounded in her love for God’s Word and the people it transforms.

She has received more than 50 awards for her professional work, including “Marketing Professional of the Year” from the Memphis Advertising Federation and the Mississippi Hospital Association. In 2025, she launched her debut book, Pearls of Wisdom.

Julie enjoys gardening, Southern travel, and spending time with her daughter, Brooke, and their four energetic Labrador retrievers. Whether writing devotionals or leading a Bible study, Julie uses her voice to connect people to the truth of Scripture.

Matt Goller, Video Specialist

mgoller@fbcstarkville.com

A seasoned video storyteller, Matt Goller brings extensive experience capturing meaningful narratives from across the country. Originally from Florida, Matt has worked in locations from New York to California, perfecting his craft in video production. He is passionate about using film and visual media to share authentic stories and deepen the church’s ability to connect with people. Matt and his wife, Margarita, homeschool their three children and enjoy creating together as a family.

John Mathen “JM” Wierengo, Media Associate

JWierengo@fbcstarkville.com

JM Wierengo serves as Media Associate, helping route audio throughout the FBC campus, supporting worship services, and assisting volunteers in the audio ministry. He plays bass and guitar at the 521 College service and contributes musically to special events throughout the year. Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, JM brings a unique blend of technical skill and musical talent to his role. He joined the FBC Starkville team in August 2023 and continues to support seamless, distraction-free worship through his dedication and behind-the-scenes service.

Haley Harper Smith, Music Ministry Accompanist

Haley Harper Smith, Music Ministry Accompanist, began playing piano at age four under her grandmother’s guidance. She earned her Bachelor of Music Education from Mississippi State and joined FBC’s music ministry in 2008. Haley also directs band at Starkville Academy, mentoring students through music. She and her husband, Steven—both alumni of MSU’s Famous Maroon Band—share a deep musical bond and are raising two boys. Her heart for sacred music and her skill enriches every service.

Kyle Hickey, Director of Instrumental Ministries

khickey@fbcstarkville.com

Kyle Hickey leads FBC Starkville’s instrumental ministry, guiding orchestral and band ensembles to create Christ-centered worship. He holds a Master’s degree in Music from the University of Mississippi and joined the church staff in 2016. With a strong background in worship leadership, Kyle helps musicians grow in both skill and faith. Originally from New Albany, MS, he enjoys reading, cooking, and golf, and spending time with family. His passion and precision help bring excellence to every worship moment.

Veronica Leach Hickey, Music Ministry Associate

vleach@fbcstarkville.com

Veronica Hickey serves FBC Starkville through singing, playing guitar, and teaching with a heart full of love for Jesus. She leads the homeschool choir and offers Christ-centered music education to children in the area. With a background in vocal performance and worship, she’s dedicated to raising up young worshipers. Originally from Starkville, she serves in the church in which she grew up, Veronica enjoys gardening, golf, writing, time with her cats and family. Her warmth and passion bless every space she serves in.

Lana Hamby, Administrative Assistant to the Music Ministry

lhamby@fbcstarkville.com

Since 2005, Lana Hamby has faithfully supported FBC Starkville’s music ministry with care and creativity. A native of Sligo Hollow, Alabama, and a graduate of a small Atlanta college, she brings decades of administrative experience. Lana is passionate about worship and the behind-the-scenes work that helps ministry thrive. She and her husband, Todd, have been married since 1996 and have a son, Evan. Lana enjoys traveling, time with family, and serving the community.