team.

Senior Pastor

Doug Clark

I grew up in Akron, Ohio. There were five of us in my family – my parents and my two sisters with me in the middle. I trusted Christ when I was 12 years old and then strayed through most of junior high and high school. The summer before my senior year in high school, two of my best friends and I went to a Young Life Camp in Colorado. It was on the bus ride home that Jesus really got a hold of my heart. I committed to following Him and was discipled, and I’m grateful for the patience the Lord showed me.

I attended Taylor University in Upland, Indiana, where I majored in business. After graduation, I worked for my dad in the family business, saw much of the country from the seat of a bicycle, and volunteered with Young Life. Around this time, I met Vicki. She was on staff with Campus Crusade for Christ, and God used her in a major way to move me toward ministry.

Vicki and I were married in November of 1987 and immediately moved to Portland, Oregon, where I attended Western Seminary. I graduated with a Masters of Divinity and a Masters of Theology. We have been privileged to raise two incredible children, Micah, who is married to Mary, and Chelsea. We also have one granddaughter, Ella, and we love spending time with her whenever we can.

I joined the Grace Staff in December of 2005, and my passion is that we would be a body of disciples who make disciples – that is helping people come to Christ and grow in Christ so they can then help others experience the same for the Glory of God. I want our church to live out the word of God by loving Him and others.

EXECUTIVE PASTOR OF OPERATIONS

Kirk Hudson

I grew up in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. My parents were so kind to send me to camp when I was young, and that is where I was introduced to Jesus. I began to grow in my understanding of who Jesus was and is in my life, and I am thankful to my parents who pointed me to Jesus at an early age.

I am married to Kelly, and we have four children of our own, Kalloway, who is married to Bobby, Konner, Kory, and Karoline. For a few years we also had two international students from China, Bevin and Henry, who we call our sons.

I joined the Grace staff in January of 2017, and it is my joy to oversee the resources of our organization. God is generous and kind, and He provides generously what is needed to be used to bring Him Glory!

Grace Community Church and Grace Community School have a tremendous influence in the local community, in East Texas, and internationally because of God’s generosity. I pray that we as His children and as a body of believers are generous with our lives to be disciples who make disciples.

EXECUTIVE PASTOR OF MINISTRIES

Stephen Wickliffe

I’m a native Texan who was born, raised, and spent most of my days growing up in Red Oak, Texas. The first decade and a half of my life was filled with church attendance, cultural Christianity, and knowing about Jesus, but not following Him. Jesus transformed me my senior year of high school as He saved me, and I began to follow Him.

I met my incredible wife, Stephanie, in college. Stephanie and I were married in May of 2003. We have one daughter, Mayleigh (the oldest), and three sons, Asher, Beckett, and Callen.

I joined the Grace staff in March of 2005, and I desire to see neighbors, natives, and nations transformed by the saving grace of Jesus! Who will go? Acts 1:8 tells us we are sent by God. It is a directive for all of us to go. Mission exists (temporarily this side of heaven) because people are not worshiping the one true God.

Grace Español Campus Pastor

David J. Ramos

I am originally from Bayamón, Puerto Rico. I was raised in a Christian home where church planting was our calling. However, in 1995, the Lord called us to leave Puerto Rico and move to South Florida.

After a few years away from my faith, I found myself in a dark place needing Jesus. In 2001, I reconciled with Jesus, accepting His Lordship in my life and have served Him ever since.

I have been married for 18 years to my beautiful bride, Emily Ramos. We have two beautiful daughters, Janelle, born in January of 2006, and Jaylene, born in July of 2012. Both my wife and my daughters are precious gifts from God to my life.

I joined the Grace team in January of 2023, and my hope is to reach the Hispanic community in Tyler with the transforming message of Jesus Christ. I will do so by loving families and helping them to discover and follow Jesus.

Dover Campus Pastor

Kyle Smith

God’s grace and mercy has been a regular refrain in my life. My childhood was lived in a loving home where I was encouraged and shown how faith is lived out in daily life. I began to understand the gospel and accepted Jesus as my Savior in middle school.

I left Mineola, Texas, after high school and headed to Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. After graduation, I worked as a musician in New York City. I lived “the dream” and found that it left me empty. God used circumstances and people in my life to draw me back to Him and call me into ministry.

Kristy and I moved to San Antonio where we got married and had our son, Wyatt. We came “home” to Grace in 2013 and welcomed our daughter, Mae, shortly after.

I love being active and spending time with my family, trying to make people laugh, and running with our dog through school traffic.

My desire is to follow Jesus and help others do the same. I’m excited to see what the Lord will do through the Dover Campus as we trust and obey Him.

Lindale Campus Pastor

Lewis Pollard

I was born in Augusta, Georgia, and grew up in Clearwater, South Carolina. I benefitted greatly from the local church’s volunteers in children’s and student ministries, and I had two Godly grandmothers who modeled their faith well. At the age of fifteen, I placed my faith in Jesus.

I have had the honor of being married to Erin since January 1, 2000. We are the parents of Isaac, Karis, Elijah, Ellee, Samuel, and Korbyn.

I joined the Grace staff in August of 2015, and I desire to continue to steward well the opportunity that I get to serve alongside the body of believers and our staff team at Grace Community Church in Lindale.

University Blvd Campus Pastor

Michael Tropea

I grew up in upstate NY right outside the city of Syracuse. After an ongoing pursuit of truth and life through various means outside of Jesus, I realized He had been pursuing me throughout my life. I finally realized the beauty of the Gospel through Jesus at the age of 17, and He has taken me on a wild ride ever since.

My wife, Alexa, and I have one daughter, Aurora, born in November of 2014. We like to call ourselves “Team Tropea” (pronounced: tro-pay-a). You can find us outside in nature, playing crazy family games, and opening our table for others.

I’m a nerd for history, being outdoors, staying active, and spending time with my family.  I have a heart for “community” and people’s stories that God gives each of us.

I joined the Grace team in July of 2023, and my hope is to seek out life together with those who know Christ and to invite others to our table who don’t know Him to get to know WHOSE they are.

Missions Pastor

Jacob Helmeczi

I was born in Missouri and moved to New Jersey after my father died when I was four. I was adopted by a loving family who faithfully taught me about Jesus. I called myself a Christian, but truthfully, Jesus was not Lord of my life, and I had no idea who he really was.

In college, God radically got my attention after I overdosed on drugs at the end of my sophomore year. The next day, I met with Pastor Ray, a college pastor, who taught me the Gospel in a way I had never heard it before. I gave my life to the Lord, and I haven’t looked back.

I am the proud husband to my beautiful wife, Jessica, and we have been blessed with four incredible kids: Elijah, Elisabeth, Jeremiah, and Georgianna.

I joined the Grace team in January of 2022, and my sincere hope is to serve alongside our church family as we learn how to be with Jesus, become like Jesus, and do what Jesus did by submitting all of our lives of His lordship and empowering presence on a daily basis.

Lindale Associate Campus Director

Adam Hunt

I grew up in Central Oregon as the second oldest of six children. My parents consistently modeled what it means to walk faithfully with the Lord, and through their discipleship, I came to know Christ at an early age.

I am married to Brittany, and we have three amazing children – Brighton, Harrison, and Collins. We have been active members of the Grace Lindale Campus since 2014, where we have served with Grace K!DS, GSM, Catalyst, and small groups.

Our family loves playing board games and being outside, and when time allows, I enjoy running, doing yard work and woodworking, and following Dodger baseball.

I joined the Grace team in February of 2025 and am honored to be on a team that is stacked with people who love the Lord and His word and are passionate about discipleship.

SENIOR WORSHIP PASTOR

Jon Jenz

I grew up in Chicago, Illinois, and came to know Jesus as a freshman in college at Bowling Green State University in Ohio.

When I was in college, I made some pretty poor decisions. I guess I was your typical college freshman. Eventually, I was invited to attend a campus church with a friend. The pastor was young and very honest. He pulled out the Bible and started talking about Jesus as if He was his best friend. A few days later, the pastor asked me to lunch and told me how Jesus had transformed him. It didn’t take much longer for me to realize I wanted to know Jesus and experience this kind of transformation. And I have!

I am married to Laura, and we have five kids, Luke, Maggie, Sam, Josie, and Eli.

I joined the Grace staff in 2007, and my deep hope is that our awareness of the love of God for us would spur us to glorify Him with our lives.

WORSHIP DIRECTOR, UNIVERSITY BLVD CAMPUS

Kyle Geyman

I grew up in Royse City, Texas, which got a Buc-ee’s in 2019 and is now officially on the map! My parents led and discipled me to Jesus, and I decided to follow Him when I was about 11 years old. No turning back!

Fun fact: I am a triplet! I love a wide range of music, and I have probably spent too much money on different concerts throughout my life: Coldplay, The Eagles, Chris Stapleton, and even Josh Groban. I am very easy-going except on game nights. I usually laugh at my own jokes, and I am a big fan of adventure, great food, and funny stories! I like to see the best in people and use my energy to encourage those around me.

I joined the Grace staff in October of 2019, and my deep hope is to use music and art to draw us closer to Jesus and inspire us to worship Him with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength.

Worship Pastor-Lindale Campus

Blake Ainsworth

I was born in Shreveport, LA, and grew up in Atlanta, TX. My parents modeled what it looked like to love Jesus and serve the church. Their faithfulness and the worship ministry at our church led me to place my faith in Jesus when I was 9 years old. 

My teenage years consisted of attending church and knowing about Jesus but not really knowing Him. It wasn’t until my sophomore year of college that I truly surrendered to Jesus and made Him Lord of my life. It was in this season that the Lord changed the direction of my life and called me into ministry.

I have had the honor of being married to Krystle since 2014, and we have two awesome kids, Grayson and Riley. We love cooking and spending time together as a family. In my free time, I enjoy sports and am an avid fan of the Texas Rangers, the Dallas Mavericks, and LSU football.

I joined the Grace team in October of 2024, and my hope is that we would know and be overwhelmed by God’s love for us, leading us to worship Him in every aspect of our lives.

Dover Campus & Grace Student Ministry Worship Director

Jake Hageman

I grew up in Tyler for most of my life, and from a young age, my parents taught me about God and the Bible. Around the age of 15, I began truly walking in faith. My family had moved to Knoxville, Tennessee, after living in Tyler for 8 years. Having to (essentially) start my life over in high school was extremely difficult for me but showed me that I couldn’t just ride the coattails of my parents’ faith. If I truly believed that Jesus was Lord of my life, I had to trust Him in all circumstances, including that my sin was truly forgiven. From that point, my life has never been the same, and I owe it all to the grace of God! 

I was born to Mark and Elaine Hageman, and I have seven younger siblings (yes, you read that right!). I have two biological brothers (Tyler & Cody) and five adopted siblings (Chloe, Cathy, Molly, Gage, and Lilly), who are all blood-relatives with each other! My family was also a foster family for a while, so I like to think I have many more siblings out there. My family grew up going to Grace Community Church, and I have been serving with the worship team at the OJ and UB campuses for the past 7 years. It is truly a privilege to now get to be on staff at the place I’ve called “home’ for so long.

Fun fact about me: I am a HUGE movie buff! I actually have a bachelor’s in Film Production from Grand Canyon University, so anything revolving around movies or video production is right up my alley. My brain is an endless archive of random movie facts and trivia! On top of that, I have a deep love and passion for music. I’ll listen to just about every genre out there. I’m also a big sports guy – I love football, hockey, basketball, and more. I’m a big Green Bay Packers fan, so you can catch me wearing green and gold after church on a fall Sunday.

I joined the Grace team in July of 2024, and my heart for leading worship is that the whole world would draw near to the throne of grace with full confidence (Heb. 4:16) and get a glimpse of the glory and majesty of our God and King. I am so grateful to be part of what God is beginning to do at the Dover Campus, and I am hopeful that God’s name alone would be glorified! I am equally grateful to be a part of the GSM team. My hope is that God would use me to build up students and young leaders who worship the Lord and to equip students to lead their peers to worship in spirit and truth (John 4:24).

PASTOR OF DISCIPLESHIP

Scott Wilson

I grew up in Chandler, Arizona. I am married to Shari, and we have raised six children.

I have been a part of the ministry team at Grace Community for many years. I started in 1991 as the Student Ministries Pastor. In 2004, we moved to the St. Louis area to launch and pastor a church that was starting a multi-site ministry. In 2016, we moved back to Tyler, and I began working on the Grace Community School side of the ministry team as the Director of Spiritual Formation. In my current role, I’m serving as the Pastor of Discipleship with a focus on small groups and men’s ministry across all of our campuses.

My deep hope is for everyone at Grace to be intentional about participating in the discipleship journey.

Family Ministry Director

Dana Squires

I was born and raised in Lubbock, Texas, to a family who loved the Lord and taught me of His love and goodness from the time I was born. I made a personal decision to follow Christ when I was a young child.

I met my husband, Jared, in high school, and we were married in 1991. We have three grown children and one daughter-in-law: Sydney, a licensed counselor in Lubbock; Sawyer, a cowboy and horse trainer in Montana; and Carson and wife, Annie, who are missionaries in India. Our kids all love the Lord and endeavor to make His name known in their own ways.

We moved to Tyler this past summer and immediately began looking for a church home. Through that process, we found Grace Community and joined the Old Jacksonville Campus. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family, outdoor activities, nature, attending musicals, reading, and painting with watercolors.

I joined the Grace staff in January of 2024, and my deep hope is that all parents would believe and embrace the fact that they are God’s ordained parents for their children and would have the desire and stamina to integrate a spiritual heritage of true discipleship into their lives that points everyone to Christ. I’m excited to come alongside and pray for parents and grandparents, helping them feel cared for, connected, equipped, and celebrated as they raise their children to be in the world but not of the world.

Women’s Ministry Global Director

Teresa Ator

I was born and raised in a small town in Southern California. As the oldest of four children in a single-parent home, I learned to rely on the Lord for my security and salvation at a very early age. I was 5 years old and sitting in a Sunday school class of a sweet little church down the street from my house when I learned about and excitedly received Christ’s love and redemption!

In my early teen years, we joined a little church plant in the same town and began a journey of discovering what being the church really looked like. The people in that community of believers surrounded my family and walked us through many trials, joys, and hard years of life. Men came alongside us as father figures, women mentored and loved each of us daily, and lifetime friendships were formed that impacted our hearts in unbelievable ways. This is one of the reasons God has put such passion and desire in my heart for the church and the family to form a partnership like no other.

I have been married to Randall since 1996, and we have 5 children and an amazing bonus son-in-law! Michelle, Riley, Jake, Nathan, and our “baby” Lainee are our amazing children. Our oldest daughter, Michelle, and her husband, Blake, have blessed us with our very first precious grandson, Owen!

I joined the Grace team in August of 2011, and my deep hope is that families, kids, and leaders would find community and experience the deep redeeming love of Christ in a way that would cause them to grow as disciples who live life on mission for the gospel!

WOMEN'S MINISTRY DIRECTOR, LINDALE CAMPUS

Debra Kirby

I grew up in the DFW metroplex in a single-parent home where we regularly attended church, but I felt like God was far-off and unconcerned with humanity. On the outside, I was a girl who tried to be morally good, but I sought my value in dating relationships and found my purpose in performance. Because God loves me, He allowed my heart to be broken in my twenties, helping me realize that my sin separated me from Him and that He wanted to be present in my life. His unconditional love gave me a new identity and purpose in life.

I met my wonderful husband, Bill, on a blind date on the steps of Grace Lindale. How’s that for a divine relationship? We have two amazing daughters, Emma and Sophie, who love crafting, nature, and all sorts of animals, so it’s little chaotic at home but always fun.

I joined the Grace staff in 2014 and feel like I have the perfect job. I get to encourage women to take the next step in their spiritual journey using God’s Word as our guide. It’s hard to love someone you don’t know. My hope is that women would really know what God is like, His ways and His love for us, and by doing so, find true contentment and purpose in life.

Women's Ministry Coordinator, University Blvd Campus

McKenna Swanson

I grew up in a prayerful and loving home in a family that attended church occasionally. I always knew God was present, but I began my relationship with our Heavenly Father and accepted Jesus as my Savior my freshman year of high school at a YoungLife camp in Malibu, Canada.

I grew up in Spokane, Washington, and was blessed to be able to participate in YoungLife and youth ministry through high school and college. I met Brad, my husband, my senior year of college and got married the following year. We have been blessed with 3 amazing boys, Bentley and Copeland and Easton who are twins. Our family moved to Tyler from Washington State and have felt so invited into the family of believers at Grace. 

In my free time, I enjoy spending time outside going on walks or bike rides with my boys. I love to listen to podcasts or books, read commentaries, and learn Bible history. I have tried quite a few creative hobbies in the past, but for the last few years, that has been mostly displayed through photography. 

I joined the Grace team in May of 2024, and my hope for Women’s Ministry at Grace is to glorify and honor God in all that we do. I pray that women would continue to feel welcomed and loved no matter what they are walking through in life, that we would know the voice of God by studying and knowing His Word, and that we would continue to participate and grow in genuine Gospel community and personal sanctification through the work of the Holy Spirit.

College and Young Adult Pastor

Max Heller

I grew up in San Antonio, Texas, with my parents and four siblings. My family started attending church when I was 8 years old. After seeing my parents changed by God, I began having conversations with my dad about faith. I believed and confessed that Jesus is Lord when I was 9, and I was baptized.

My wife, Chrisleigh, and I got married in 2017. We have three boys, Jones, Elliot, and Louis.

I joined the Grace staff in January of 2018, and my hope for the people of Grace Community Church is that we love God and love our neighbors as we seek to be and make disciples for the glory of God.

GRACE STUDENT MINISTRY DIRECTOR

Daniel Edson

I was born and raised in the Piney Woods of North East Texas in a small town outside of Texarkana, where Arkansas bleeds over into Bowie County. (Hence, why I will “call the Hogs” my entire life – WOO PIG!) I grew up in the church and was baptized as a teenager, yet the giving over of my life to the mission of the Gospel was a continual process that journeyed into my college years. Throughout my life, I’ve had several “Lazarus” moments, as I like to call them, where my eyes were opened to a much deeper understanding of God that led to a more intimate relationship with Him.

I enjoy all things sports and music (with my favorite being hip-hop), rooting for all of my favorite teams, a good book with a great cup of coffee, and spending time with my family doing all the things. I like to think of myself as a creative and fixer upper

I was the 1998 OBU Basketball Camp 3-Point Champion. (And turned a triple play in my final high school baseball game. No big deal.)

I’m married to my beautiful and gracious bride, Kameron, and we have an incredible, spunky daughter named Kanyon. We also have a four-legged fur baby named Rayce that we treat as our other child.

I joined the Grace staff in March of 2014, and my heart is dedicated to seeing redemption and reconciliation take place in the lives of those around me. It is my constant prayer that we will see students during their adolescent years come to a deep, rich understanding of the Lord and have an intimate relationship with Him that exalts and glorifies Him for the rest of their lives.

It truly is my deepest heartfelt hope that we launch our students into the next season of life as resilient and dedicated disciples of Jesus who reflect His love where they live, work, and play.

Grace Student Ministry High School Director, Lindale Campus

Dalton Baker

I was born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. From a young age, my family attended church regularly. In my junior year of high school, I was challenged to make my faith my own. During this time, I went on a mission trip to Los Angeles where I realized that I needed to place my faith in Jesus. During college, I deepened my faith through community. This process had its ups and downs, but it was necessary in my faith journey.

I married my wife, Sarah, in June of 2020 after we graduated from John Brown University. We have two cats, Cowboy and Boots, that we treat as our children.

I joined the Grace team in January of 2023, and my hope is that students will come to know the love of God through Grace Student Ministry and will be equipped to show God’s love to the world as they launch into the next stage of their lives.

GRACE STUDENT MINISTRY JUNIOR HIGH DIRECTOR, LINDALE CAMPUS

Lauren Sarter

I was raised a city-girl in my hometown of Plano but have grown to love the tall pine trees, rolling hills, terrible drivers, & friendly hospitality that only East Texas has to offer. I’m a proud Oklahoma State University grad & a Sky Ranch alumna!

I’m passionate about student ministry because of the incredible role that discipleship played in my own life. I truly began my walk with the Lord as a freshman in high school due to the impact of CRU, a ministry on my campus. After the radical change that discipleship had on my life, I now hope to help students understand the life-changing power of God’s word.

I joined the Grace staff in August of 2019, and my desire is to allow students to see the ways that God is uniquely equipping each of them to build the Kingdom through relationships, just like Christ did. I believe that obedience is a worthy and refining process that becomes even more possible in the context of community, like GSM!

Grace Student Ministry Junior High Director, Tyler

Russell Randolph

I grew up in San Antonio, Texas, and came to know the Lord in 8th grade through my time in student ministry.

I am married to the love of my life, Madeline. During our engagement, Max and Chrisleigh Heller did our premarital counseling, and Max is who told me about this position at Grace! Before joining staff, I worked as a Recruiting Specialist and Senior Manager of Day Camp at Sky Ranch, and Madeline and I attended the Grace Lindale Campus. In my free time, I enjoy playing disc golf, basketball (Go Spurs!), taking road trips, and music. I am also getting into cooking, and I make a really good smash burger. 

I joined the Grace team in June of 2024, and my hope is that we would help junior high students fall more in love with Jesus and feel the Love of God every time they are in our care.

GSM Girls Director

Savannah Baerg

I grew up in Houston and was dedicated at Tallowood Baptist Church as a baby. I’ve always known discipling parents who had a passion for Jesus. 

Throughout my life, I’ve been motivated to get tasks done. I grew up thinking the more I’m involved with the church, youth group, etc., the more I would show my love for God and others, but the Lord quickly turned that thought pattern around. As a Pine Cove camper, I asked a lot of questions about faith and making it your own – specifically, when it came to assurance of salvation. My counselors walked me through the Roman road that when we give our life to Him, we get to live with Him forever. After committing my life to Christ on February 27, 2011, I showed a symbol of the faith I had in the Spirit and decided to make him a part of my everyday life through baptism.

In high school, I knew I was called to vocational ministry, so I went on to study Psychology and Religion at Samford University. After graduating, I worked full-time for Pine Cove before serving as a Resident at Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler. 

I’m grateful to be close to family. My parents currently live in Dallas and have a sweet golden retriever puppy named Oakley. I have two older sisters, one who lives in Dallas and another who lives in NYC, and I also have a younger brother who goes to Texas A&M University. 

In my free time, I like to play pickleball & enjoy running (I’ve been crazy enough to run a couple of marathons!). I also love anything outdoors – hiking, swimming, canoeing, and anything in the sun. I’m a travel enthusiast and have been to 13 countries and got the chance to study abroad in London one summer. I love trying new restaurants, drinking coffee, and playing board games with friends!

I joined the Grace Team in May of 2025, and my hope is that Christ will transform people to live faithfully, radically, and intentionally, seeking after Him. Through Girls Ministry with GSM, I hope to help raise up thoughtful, articulate Christians who engage the whole Gospel with their whole person and to disciple young women to be confident in who God calls us to be, Imago Dei. I pray for these girls to know they’re seen, heard, known, and loved by the Creator who’s also their Father and friend.

Grace Student Ministry High School Director, Tyler

Trevor Webb

I grew up in the small town of Diboll, Texas. There was never much to do there, however, there was a church! Growing up as a kid, I never really went to church, except for special occasions, but the summer before my freshman year of high school, a friend invited me to attend church camp. It was at this camp that I heard the Gospel preached and began to wonder who this Jesus was that everyone was talking about. Soon after I accepted Christ and was baptized.

I am married to Rylee, and we typically spend our weekends drinking coffee, playing pickleball, and playing board games with friends. I am a coffee enthusiast and love to make coffee for others and visit various local shops with Rylee. I also enjoy hiking, paddle boarding, and music.

I joined the Grace team in July of 2024, and my hope is to raise up the next generation to be the hands and feet of Jesus. I want students in GSM to understand what it means to be disciples who make disciples, serving in various capacities and pouring into and discipling the future generations that are being brought up.

GRACE K!DS GLOBAL DIRECTOR

Molly Pontius

I spent the first 23 years of my life in the beautiful state of Washington. I grew up with two sisters, and we had an idyllic childhood until our parents divorced. That was a very dramatic and sad time in my life, but it set me up in a unique way to see my brokenness and my need for Jesus.

I have a big energetic family! I’m married to Steve, and it has been the joy of our lives to raise 5 children, Tyler, Landon, Dillon, Michaela, and Reilly. We live in the forest with our two dogs, Klondike and Huckleberry.

I joined the Grace staff in 2012, and it is my deep conviction that Jesus is the answer – for everything! That fuels my desire to make that known to the kids and families who I have the privilege of walking life with each day. I want kids to know that God loves them fiercely and is worthy of their surrender and lifelong pursuit. Likewise, I love equipping parents to be intentional as they model what a Christ follower looks like for their kids.

GRACE K!DS OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Alyssa Jacobs

I grew up in Northern California in a small town called El Dorado Hills. When I was 10, my family and I moved across the country to Wilmington, North Carolina, for a few months. When that didn’t work out, we moved back across the country to Las Vegas, Nevada, where we stayed for about 15 years.

I rarely went to church as a child, but as a young teenager, a friend invited me to her youth group, and I fell in love with the people who were in love with their God. They showed me how to love others, honor God, and know Jesus intimately. I began my own relationship with Jesus around the age of 13 and continued being mentored by Christ-loving couples and families in the church. I spent as much time at my church as I could, serving in the nursery and kids’ classes, on the A/V team, and anywhere else they needed me. I was eventually asked to join the staff as the administrative/graphic design/website & app/organizational/anything and everything person. I wore many hats working on our small staff, but I loved helping everything run smoothly.

I love drawing, dogs, coffee, trying new foods, and reading. I am married to my wonderful and talented husband, Aaron, and we have a pretty cute kid named Colson. Aaron and I met as teenagers in our youth group and were eventually baptized, married, and had our baby dedicated all on the same stage! As our family began to grow, we wanted to search for a new home in a new place to raise our kids. While it was painful to say so many goodbyes, we moved our family to Texas in the summer of 2021 and found Grace Community Church a few months later.

I joined the Grace staff in April of 2022. God provided this position in a way that only He could, and I have loved getting to know the amazing team that serves our kids and families. My deep hope is that people would feel loved, connected, and free because of who Jesus is.

Grace K!DS Director, Old Jacksonville Campus

Ashley Epperson

I was born and raised in Colorado Springs, Colorado, in a Christian home. Even though my whole life was centered around church and Christian things, I didn’t fully understand what it meant to have a real relationship with Christ until I was 27 years old. Since then, it has been such an amazing time of growth.

I moved to Longview in 2008 where I met Daren, and we got married in 2011. We moved to Tyler in 2016 for college and started attending Grace Community in 2017. We have three awesome kiddos, Millicent, Shiloh, and Peter.

I joined the team in May of 2023, and my deep hope is that Grace K!DS will be the place where kids see who Jesus is and discover what He has planned for them so that they can share that with the community God has them in.

GRACE K!DS COMMUNITY SITE COORDINATOR, TYLER

Ingrid Hogue

I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, and I moved to Tyler in 1987. I did not grow up in a Christian home and was not raised in church. We attended the Catholic Church when I was younger but had a falling out with the church, and these circumstances led my family to lose faith in the church and in God.

My husband, Corey, and I got married in 2004. We have two boys, Victor and Anthony. We first came to Grace on Easter Sunday in 2017. I came to know the Lord on March 25, 2018, and Corey baptized me the following year.

I joined the Grace staff in August of 2018, and my deep hope is to help my leaders and my kids to grow stronger and have a better relationship with Jesus. Teaching my girls on Sunday mornings brings me such joy, and as we teach them, we also are learning from them.

Preschool Coordinator-LD

Jenn Papale

Born and raised in Southern California, I grew up knowing that God is real and that I could confide in Him anytime. However, I did not hear the Gospel until I started my journey to know the Lord later in life. 

I married Raffy in 2009, and we have three beautiful children and two grandchildren. We began attending church in 2012, I gave my life to Jesus in 2013, and, wow, my life has never been the same! I’m so thankful for the mercy, grace, and love of God in our lives everyday. Serving in ministry has changed the trajectory of my life and has helped me come to know the Lord so much more intimately. 

Our family relocated to Lindale in 2023 after my husband’s retirement from the police department in California. We visited Grace before moving to Texas, and it felt like home from the first day we walked in the doors. In my free time, I love cooking and traveling, movies and board games with family and friends, and entertaining at our home. I joined the Grace team in September of 2024, and I am grateful to work with our incredible volunteers to create a space where preschoolers can learn about the genuine, real, and unwavering love of Jesus. 

Grace K!DS Director, Lindale Campus

Kara Miller

I grew up in a small town outside of Tulsa, Oklahoma, called Mannford. I grew up going to church and was baptized at the age of 8. I can tell you that I didn’t fully comprehend what a relationship with the Lord looked like until later in life, but I have always known the love of Jesus. I was raised in a home where my parents were always serving within the church, and to see my dad studying the Bible before anyone was awake was an everyday occurrence. It wasn’t until I was older that I really understood that a relationship with the Lord is an intimate one, and that it’s exactly that, a relationship. The more intentional you are with a relationship, the deeper it grows.

I was the kid that went to school so that l could play sports. I played softball my whole life, and after high school, I went on to pitch two years at Oklahoma State University (Go Pokes!) and catch two years at The University of Central Oklahoma (Go Bronchos!).  I then assisted at the University of Central Oklahoma for two years before getting married to Eric Miller.

Our story is fun, and I love to tell it because you can see how the Lord’s pieces played out, but the bullet points are: went to high school together, never dated, reconnected years later while he was on leave – he was in the marine corp in AZ, and I was in OK playing ball – saw each other a handful of times and got married on a Monday at noon at the Oklahoma City courthouse. For me, it was perfect. We were able to live together as a married couple for a couple of months, and then he deployed for the final time. We have a lot of story in between then and now, but along the way, we were blessed with three amazing boys, Heath, Ryan, and Blake. My happy place is at home with all my guys.

I joined the Grace staff in February of 2021, and my deep hope is that every Sunday these precious kiddos walk away knowing that they are loved, wanted, and chosen. I pray that they know the love of Jesus and that He loves to hear their voices.

Grace K!DS Coordinator, University Blvd Campus

Kathy Meyer

My family and I moved to Texas from Boston, Massachusetts, when I was 11-years-old. My family is still in the Houston area, but I have been a Tyler resident for over ten years.

I grew up in church, but right around our move to Texas, our family was thrown some major curveballs where I learned to fully trust Jesus and that my hope was in Him!

My husband, Daniel, and I met and started dating when we were 18. It was the week we graduated high school (so just-out-of-high-school sweethearts), and we were summer camp counselors. I tripped over a table, he caught me, and the rest was history! We dated long-distance up until we got married in 2016.

We have two sons, Zeke and Roman, and two little yorkie-poos named Shark and Roomba.

I joined the staff in August of 2022, and my deep hope is that the kids and families that experience Grace K!DS leave feeling loved and known and are encouraged to pursue life with Jesus more.

Grace K!DS Director, University Blvd Campus

Kellie Tice

I grew up southeast of Dallas in a small town called Crandall. I grew up in a wonderful family that loved Jesus. We were very involved in small church, so I always knew who Jesus was and that he loved me. It wasn’t until my teenage years that I realized I did not have a relationship with Jesus and that I needed his forgiveness for my sins. At age 17 at a youth camp I asked Jesus to forgive me of sins and told him I wanted to follow him the rest of my life.

I am married to my wonderful husband, Daniel, and we have three children: Annabelle, Emma, and Danny. We moved to Tyler from the Dallas area during the summer of 2022. Daniel is an Assistant Principal at Three Lakes Middle School in Tyler ISD.

I joined the Grace staff in April of 2023, and myhope and prayer for our Grace K!DS ministry is that we will be kingdom-expanding and heart-transforming. My prayer is that we will come alongside the parents in our church to disciple these kids and help build a foundation of God’s truth in each of their lives.

Grace K!DS Preschool Coordinator, OJ

Madeline Randolph

I grew up in Flower Mound, Texas, in a loving family with two sisters who are some of my very best friends. I came to know Jesus personally near the end of high school, but my years at Texas A&M really shaped my relationship with Jesus where friends and mentors taught me how to read scripture, pray, confess sin, and be an active and serving member of the local church.

I am married to my very best friend, Russell! He is patient, humble, servant-hearted, genuine, and hilarious. The Lord’s kindness to me has been shown so tangibly in the way Russell pursues me as his wife and constantly reminds me of the even greater pursuit Jesus has for my heart every day.

After graduating from college, I worked at Sky Ranch and started out as a member of Grace Lindale, serving in Grace K!DS and participating in a small group. When Russell became the Jr. High Director for the Tyler campuses, we made the move to OJ and have absolutely loved it! We have jumped into community and built lots of new friendships. I am passionate about kids learning more about Jesus through play, song, and stories of His faithfulness. In my free time, I love to read, walk my dog, be outside, and play games. I have traveled quite a bit because my mom is a flight attendant, and she would bring my younger sister and me along on her trips.

I joined the Grace team in April of 2025, and I hope to help work with the team to provide more resources for preschool parents to use at home in collaboration with Grace K!DS as we partner with them in the discipleship of their kids! I also hope to know the names of children and their parents and to create a space where they feel so welcome and known.

JOY MINISTRY DIRECTOR, LINDALE CAMPUS

Keisha Yarbrough

I grew up in Lindale, Texas, and I’m a proud wife to Charlie Yarbrough, also an East Texas native. We have three wonderful children, Julianne, Charlie Cale, and Bayleigh. We have been members of Grace Community Church since 2011, and I have had the pleasure of volunteering with special needs kids since 2012. I enjoy being outdoors, exercising, reading, and sharing Jesus with everyone I can.

I came to know Christ at the age of 23 during a book study with some friends. In 2015, I obtained my nursing degree from Tyler Junior College. I continued to work at our local hospital as a neuro-nurse until 2019, going part-time when I began my journey working for Lindale Independent School District. I obtained a certification in special needs through continuing education classes. The Special Needs Certificate recognizes professionals dedicated to promoting quality care in the field of special needs.

I joined the Grace team in 2021, and my hope and prayer for JOY Ministries is to come alongside families with special needs to love and serve not only the kids but their parents as well.

Director of International Missions

Sandra Nieves

I was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and came to know Jesus at the age of 14 when I heard the message of the cross at youth camp. After that, I began to serve in local missions and eventually in different nations around the world.

I have three kids, Dan, JJ, and Victoria. They are all gifted by the Lord in art and music.

I joined the Grace Staff in May of 2022, and my deep hope is to serve in every area possible with our missionaries and our local community as we mobilize the church to fulfill the great commission through being and making disciples of Jesus.

Grace Español Local Missions Coordinator

Samuel Fuentes

I was born on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico but raised in Brooklyn, New York, from the age of 3 to 19. After returning to Puerto Rico at the age of 19, I had a personal encounter with the Lord Jesus Christ.

I have been married to Sonia Y. Marin Jurado for the last 24 years and counting. We have three children and one granddaughter: Samuel Abner, Ruth Sarai, Keren Naomi, and Aleia Zoe. I also have a daughter name Milkah Zoe.

I joined the Grace staff in March of 2023, and my hope is to push the vision and mission of Grace to reach our Hispanic community with the Good News of the Kingdom of God.

Ministry Coordinator to Executive Team

Brittney Hood

I grew up in Tyler in a Christian home. My parents poured their lives into helping and fostering children from difficult home lives, and I learned from an early age what it looks like to give generously of all that we have to open our homes and our lives to others. I became a believer at the age of 7, and as a high school student, God brought people into my life who helped disciple me in my faith. I grew to better understand what it meant to make Jesus Lord of my life. It has been a journey ever since learning to abide in Jesus, trusting and following Him.

I met my husband, Trenton, while attending Baylor University. After many years in Waco, we moved back to East Texas with our three children, Ethan, Emmy, and Truett. We have really enjoyed living closer to both of our families. We love spending time together as a family and with friends, playing games, watching college sports, and going on adventures.

I joined the Grace team in 2019 as the Women’s Ministry Coordinator for our Tyler campuses and shortly thereafter took on the additional role of Executive Assistant to the Senior Pastor. In 2023, I began my current role as Ministry Coordinator to the Executive Team.

I’m grateful to God for the opportunity to be a part of the Grace team! I love being around people, and it’s a calling and a joy to serve alongside our staff. My deep hope is that we will generously and intentionally pour out our lives to help people feel known, loved, and seen by the Lord.

Administrative Assistant for Adult Discipleship

Mackenzie Fernandes

I grew up in Niantic, Connecticut, a village on the coast of the Long Island Sound. My parents were both Christians and taught me about the Gospel, but I did not have my own personal relationship with Jesus.

It wasn’t until I went through one of the lowest points in my life at my first college that I finally called out to God. I then transferred to Cedarville University where I learned a lot about Christianity. I cannot recall the exact moment I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior, but prior to being baptized in June of 2019, I professed that truth. It is such a special memory!

I grew up with four brothers and one sister. They are all still residing in Connecticut. I met my husband, Guilherme Fernandes, at Cedarville. We both transferred to the school the same year and ended up in class together. We connected because we were both on the university soccer teams. We were married on July 30, 2022.

I joined the Grace staff in October of 2022, and I hope that adults at Grace can not only be discipled but also learn how to disciple others for God’s glory.

Guest Services Coordinator, Lindale Campus

Amanda Johnson

I grew up in Houston and was raised in the Catholic church. We attended religiously, and I went through all of the steps of the church: baptism, first communion, and confirmation. In high school, I joined my best friend at the Baptist church and my boyfriend at the Pentecostal church while still attending the Catholic church with my family (I promise this isn’t the start of a terrible joke). It was at that time that I started contemplating different elements of each church and thinking about my personal walk with Christ.

It wasn’t until after college (Gig ‘em Aggies!) that I started to search for a church home and really investigate my relationship with God. For a long time, I felt like I wasn’t a “good enough Christian” because I didn’t have any Bible verses memorized and didn’t know the order of the books of the Bible. I let that hold me back for quite some time.

Then, someone I highly respected personally and spiritually asked me to lead a Bible study because she knew I “loved the Lord” and that was the only reason! After quickly responding “NO! ARE YOU CRAZY?!” I apologized and thought maybe there is a reason I’m being asked. Even though I was shocked and completely unsure of what I had to offer, I took on the challenge. I have grown so much since then, and I love digging into the Word with women every week and could not imagine my life without it.

In February of 2020, my husband, Chris, got a job in Tyler, so we moved here with our kids, Case & Avery. We didn’t know a soul in East Texas, so I joined a women’s Bible study at Grace (a church I had found on Google). I was never a good student growing up, but participating in women’s Bible studies made me crave the Word and crave the Lord’s presence in my life.

I joined the Grace staff in the summer of 2022 and like to call myself the social director of Grace Lindale. I love welcoming guests and finding ways to get them connected. As adults, it can be so difficult to go someplace new and feel welcome. My hope is that I can make the process a little easier and offer a friendly face as guests come into the building and get settled into a potential church home.

Grace Español Ministry Assistant

Bella Palacios

I was born in Weslaco, Texas, and raised in Tyler. I accepted Jesus in my heart at the age of 13.

My husband, Carlos, and I have four children, Carlitos, Carlie, Cayden, and Camila. I love to cook, host family and friends, and I serve as an ESL teacher at Grace. I am also currently on the Grace Community School Board and the Grace Missions Board. I have been in sales for over 22 years.

I joined the Grace team in June of 2023, and I hope to serve and help ensure smooth operation of the church’s administrative functions as we minister to families and build relationships with the Hispanic Community in Tyler.

Guest Services Coordinator, Old Jacksonville Campus

Heather Reed

I was born and raised here in Tyler in a Christian home. I grew up in the church and came to know Christ at an early age. I remember telling my dad one night that I felt I had a whole in my heart, and I received Christ as my savior that night.

I attended Pine Cove as a Baby Ruth, and that is where I truly experienced discipleship and felt like I made my faith my own.

I’m married to my husband, Burren, and we have three kids, Lemuel, Amelia, and Silas. We love meeting others and spending time outside. You can find us on the farm most days!

I joined the Grace team in September of 2023, and I’m excited to be part of the welcome experience! My hope is that the Lord uses me to be a light to those seeking to know more about Grace and to help them get connected.

Guest Services Coordinator, University Blvd Campus

Megan Taylor

Growing up, my dad worked in the oil field. We moved a few times, but we landed in Palestine, Texas. I was introduced to the Gospel from an early age and was saved at a church event at Mobberly Baptist Church in Longview. I have been at UB since the summer of 2009 and have grown in my understanding of how the gospel changed my life when I was young and how much I still need it every day.

I’m married to Jacob, and we have two kids, Shane and Nolan. They are all my favorite people! We enjoy spending time together as a family. Fun fact about me: I could eat mac and cheese every day!

I joined the Grace staff in October of 2022, and my hope is that women would feel known and accepted at church but also know that they are fully known by their Creator and get equipped to know Him more and more.

WORSHIP COORDINATOR

Heather Cornelison

I was born in Houston, Texas. When I was in the 3rd grade, my family moved to Whitehouse. I came to know the Lord at the age of 9 during a revival at Sylvania Baptist Church where my mom and I attended church together.

In October of 2001, I married my husband, Alan. We do not have kids, but we have a cat named Cali who we love like a child.

I joined the Grace staff in April of 2012, and my deep hope for the worship ministry is that we will continue to lead the congregation to the throne of Jesus, becoming more in love with Him on a daily basis, not just on Sundays.

Administrative Assistant, Lindale Campus

Kat Stubblefield

I grew up in Marblehead, Massachusetts. My parents taught us about God and Jesus, and I developed a true relationship with Him when I came to Lindale, Texas. I was baptized in 2014 at the Grace Lindale Campus.

I am married to my husband, Josh, and we have two little girls – Rowan, born in July of 2020, and Sunny, born in December of 2022. We live in Lindale, and we have dogs, cats, goats, and chickens! I enjoy CrossFit and playing guitar, and I love to laugh and spend time with animals. Fun fact about me: I used to work as a big cat keeper before I became a mom!

I joined the Grace team in January of 2024, and I hope to succeed in all areas of my position and for people to know that they can rely on me for help.

Director of Security Operations

Andra White

I was born and raised in the Chandler community, where I have lived my entire life. I grew up in a small country church I attended with my grandparents. Because of their godly influence in my life, I came to know the Lord at the age of 5. I watched them faithfully serve the Lord my entire life, giving me a strong desire to do the same.

I am married to Pete, my high school sweetheart, and we have two amazing kids, Colby and Carly.

I joined the Grace staff in February of 2013 as the Operations Director for Grace K!DS. In 2020, I became part of the Operations staff for the church and the school. It is my desire to use the gifts the Lord has given me to serve others in whatever way I can.

Senior Director of Finance & Accounting

Tonya Boyd

I graduated from Lindale, and all of my family is from the Lindale & Mineola areas. Growing up, I attended elementary school in South Louisiana, but summers were always spent in East Texas. My mom was a single mom and worked 3 jobs, so my grandparents took my sister and I to church on Sundays.

When I was in high school, I spent most of my spare time at the home of my best friend, Lana Wells. Her parents, Ron and Beth, loved on me, ministered to me, and treated me like family (and Ron taught me to drive a standard…a rare thing to know these days).  I soon started attending youth group at FBC Lindale. No one from my family attended there, but my friends did. One Sunday evening during service, an invitation was given, and my heart was beating out of my chest. The Lord took hold of my heart, soul, and mind, and I accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior.

My twenties were filled with hard lessons, heartbreak, lots of night classes at UT Tyler and learning to listen to God. I thank Him for bringing my husband, David, and his son, Dylan, into my life when I turned 30. Dylan was only five years old when I met David. and I actually fell in love with Dylan first (it’s true). David and I married in October of 2003, and along the way, we welcomed two daughters, Addison and Rachel. Dylan is a graduate of Texas Tech University, Addison is homeschooled, and Rachel attends GCS. Our family enjoys camping and spending time at home. After serving on the praise team at Clearview Church for many years, I now attend Mt. Sylvan Baptist Church. I am a CPA and worked in banking for 22 years.

I joined the Grace Community School staff in June of 2017 and began serving as Interim Director of Finance and Accounting in March of 2023. My deep hope is to serve the Lord with true gladness, humility, and positivity, giving hope to everyone I meet in my days at Grace Community. My desire is for the Lord to guide me to love others well and partner with them both in business and in ministry.

Director of Church Accounting

Evan Burns

I was blessed to be raised within a Christian home in a small town in southwest Washington, and I came to know Jesus as my personal Lord and Savior in middle school. During my college years, my faith wavered, and I distanced myself from Christ. Wanting to find community after moving to a large city in Washington, I returned to church. The church I started to attend was where I met my wife, Elisabeth.

Elisabeth and I got married in 2008 and moved to Arizona. We had our first and only child, Elliesa, in 2014. After her birth, we moved back to Tacoma, Washington, to be closer to family.

My family and I were visiting Tyler in hopes to relocate, and our last day here, a recruiter reached out to me about a position with a church. I was planning to have a phone interview, but later that morning, we decided to extend our trip so I could meet and interview in person. And here we are!

I officially joined the Grace team in May of 2023, and my hope for my area at Grace is to provide clarity and transparency of the stewardship of the resources bestowed to Grace to further the Kingdom of God here in Tyler and globally.

Accounting Specialist

Matthew Evans

I grew up in Tyler and attended Green Acres Baptist Church. At the age of seven, I accepted Jesus into my heart as my Lord and Savior.

I later moved to San Marcos to pursue a degree in Business Administration from Texas State University. After graduating in May of 2019, I moved to San Antonio where I worked as a civilian for the US Air Force.

I have a younger sister named Lauren who studies Psychology and works with young children. I also have two step siblings, Wyatt and Bailey Chalmers. I grew up participating in Boy Scouts, and I played several different sports when I was younger. Fun fact: I am a huge baseball fan, and a goal of mine is to visit every MLB stadium in the US.

I joined the Grace team in June of 2023, and my hope is that we cultivate an environment of support, gratitude, and love as we serve Him in our work.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE SPECIALIST

Shavon Hayes

Accounting Project Coordinator

Shelley Sawyer

I grew up in a small town south of Houston and moved to East Texas after high school. I love Jesus; He is the hope that flows in my every breath. I was blessed to be raised in church by Godly parents who taught me to pray and to hang on to God in all circumstances. That anchor led me back to Christ after I was married.

My husband, Rick, and I have three kids, Olivia, Desiree, and Shawn.  We love fishing and hanging out together as a family and working in our wood shop.

I joined the Grace staff in September of 2016, and my hope for Grace Community Church is that the East Texas Community would feel the love of Jesus that is encompassed in the hearts of our staff and our church.

AUDIO/VISUAL DIRECTOR

Alan Cornelison

I grew up right here in Tyler and came to know Jesus after my family started attending Grace. I started learning more in my Sunday school class about how we are all sinners and need God in our lives, and I began to feel God prompting me to give my life to Him.

I am a long-time musician and really love working with technical things in the audio-visual area. I am blessed to be able to work alongside my wife, Heather, who is also part of our Grace team.

I joined the Grace staff in June of 2013, and I desire for the audio-visual department to serve all the needs of Grace with excellence in a non-distracting way so our congregations and community can worship and learn more from God’s word.

AUDIO/VISUAL TECH, UNIVERSITY BLVD CAMPUS

Andrew Peacock

I grew up in Tyler and was raised in the church. I first professed faith in Christ and was baptized at the age of six. My faith became an important part of my life when I was in high school, and someone began to intentionally disciple me.

After college, I spent four years as a touring sound engineer for a Christian band. We led worship for countless student camps, disciple nows, and church worship services. During this time, I became connected with Grace Community Church. I eventually applied for a position at the University Blvd. Campus and joined their staff in the fall of 2013.

In addition to my staff role, I’m heavily involved with GSM as a small group leader to high school boys. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, adventures, and cooking.

My hope for A/V at Grace is that we would leverage technology and creativity to point the church toward Jesus and engage them in worship of Him.

DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE & COMMUNICATIONS

John Ray Morales

I was born and raised in Puerto Rico. I grew up going to church, and at the age of 11, I experienced God’s saving grace and became a disciple of Jesus. Soon after, while on a mission trip, I felt God calling me to use my artistic gifts to share Jesus. Music and children’s ministry work have given me the opportunity to visit and serve in 25 countries so far.

I have a Masters Degree in Strategic Communications and am thankful to God for the  opportunities He’s given me to put that to use to impact His kingdom.

I’m married to Tania, and we have four children. Meet “The AJ’s”, Aslan, Abriana, Aidan and Ander. We’ve lived in Tyler since 2013.

I joined the Grace Community Church Communications Team in February of 2021, and my deep hope is that God will use the creative and strategic content we share through all our communications media to bring people closer to Jesus.

Video Producer

Joel Sage

I grew up in the East Texas area and spent most of my life in church. I understood that God was something important but had never surrendered my life to him. In middle school, after a long period of deep depression, the Lord broke down my walls, and I surrendered my life to him. 

I have been married to my beautiful bride since 2019, and ever since, the Lord has taken us to places we never expected to go. Outside of video production, I love snowboarding, coffee, music, Star Wars (maybe a little too much), and going to parks with my golden retriever, Sam. Fun fact: I attended Grace as a child from 2000 to 2008. Now the Lord has brought me back to my childhood church with everything he has taught me since 2008!

I joined the Grace team in April of 2024, and I hope to tell stories in new and creative ways of how God has changed others lives.

Communications Administrative Assistant

Katie Rapp

Senior Designer and Brand Specialist

Keziah Kendrick

Graphic Designer

Bailey Paniszczyn

I grew up in the great state of Texas. Fort Worth was my home up until I graduated from high school.

I am blessed to have been raised by wonderful Christian parents who raised me in a loving Christian home. First Baptist Church of Keller is where I gave my life to Christ at the young age of eight years old.

I have always had a love for the arts, which led me to study graphic design. I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree of Design from the York/Sheridan School of Design in 2022. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, biking, traveling, baking, and shopping for vintage clothing and antiques.

I joined the Grace team in August of 2023, and my hope is to elevate the Grace brand by creating fun and original content for all ministries. I want to use my skills to uplift the Lord and to shine a light on His Presence.

HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR

Gerry Deese

I grew up in a non-Christian home in Tacoma, Washington, and my future husband, Wayne, led me to the Lord. We have two grown boys, Seth and Brian.

I joined the Grace staff in June of 1998, and my hope is to help staff understand and use the benefits that Grace provides them.

DIRECTOR OF STAFF CARE & ENGAGEMENT

Heather Simonds

I grew up in Tyler, Texas, with my mom and sisters. My parents divorced when I was young, and my dad lived in Saudi Arabia, so I only saw him once a year. I was not raised in church but did have strong Christian influences in my life and began attending a church youth group with a neighborhood friend. I accepted Christ as my Savior the summer after my 7th grade year at youth camp after learning of His unconditional love for me.

My husband, Chip, and I were married in 2001, and we have two kids, Ellie and Grayson.

I joined the Grace Staff in August of 2009 as the Girls Ministry Director and transitioned to my current role of Director of Staff Care and Engagement in September of 2020. I am also working toward my Master of Science in Mental Health & Wellness.

I am passionate about leading efforts to nurture culture and staff engagement along with people development. I also have the honor of leading the spiritual formation of the Grace Early Education team. My heart’s beat is to be a pursuer of people just as God has so passionately pursued me!

HR Coordinator

Cristal Barrios

I am blessed to come from generations of God-fearing men and women who have made God the center of our homes. My parents instilled in me the fear of the Lord ever since I was little, but I had my own personal encounter with Jesus when I was 16. 

I am blessed to come from a large family of six, and I have two sisters and one brother. Some of my hobbies include gardening, painting, fishing, and traveling. 

I joined the Grace team in May of 2024, and my hope is to grow, learn, and bless others by assisting them through Human Resources.

HR Administrative Assistant

Kristi Bellamy

I was raised in Bossier City, Louisiana, in a Southern Baptist family who loved and served the Lord faithfully.  A few days before I turned seven years old, I invited Jesus into my heart and have been a Christ follower ever since.

I am grateful to be called “Mom” by two grown children and a daughter-in-law. My daughter, Ashton, is a pharmacist in Tennessee. My son, Andrew, is a 2017 Grace graduate, and he and his wife, Annie, are currently PhD history candidates who are overseas working on their dissertations.

On Sundays, I worship at the Old Jacksonville Campus. I enjoy the Women’s Ministry Bible Studies and faithfully attend a widow’s group called WOW (Women of Wisdom). In my spare time, I enjoy running, long walks, reading, and time with family and friends.

I joined the Grace team in May of 2023. In the office, I have the opportunity to serve others by answering the phone, welcoming guests, and helping support the HR team. My heart’s true desire is to continue falling deeper in love with Jesus and to bring others with me along the way. For the JOY of the Lord is my strength!

DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY

Jon Davie Osteen

I was born in Texas and raised for a few years in Saudi Arabia before we made our way back to Texas.  I grew up in the church and have been in a ministry-supporting role all my life.

I married Robin in December of 1999, and we have six children: Sarah, Haven, Rachel, Israel, Samuel, and Jeremiah      .

I joined the Grace staff in August of 2007, and my deep hope is that we would exemplify Stephen in Acts 6.

Project Coordinator for Ops Enablement

Bob King

I was born in Rockford, Illinois, and mostly raised in Beloit, Wisconsin. I am one of six siblings, and spent most of my school years working with my dad in the maintenance and remodeling business. I love spending time with my family, playing disc golf, fishing, hunting, and hiking.

In 1982, I moved to Texas and took a maintenance job at an apartment complex, and that is where I met my wife, Carol. We have been married since 1987 and have two sons, Robby and Brett.

I joined the Grace Staff in September of 2019, and my hope is for us to serve together as a team for God’s Kingdom.

Facilities Supervisor, Old Jacksonville Campus

Greg Parker

I was raised in mostly rural parts (Big Thicket) of Livingston, often called “Deep East Texas”, where my family was deeply rooted. My father, mother, and two older brothers rarely attended church, but they all had the blessing of our great grandmother (Ma) and grandmother (Nanny) who lived right next door. We experienced almost daily Bible Study and fellowship right next door through these tried and true East Texas Pentecostal women. Their steadfast dedication to the Lord was instrumental in leading me to seek what they had in Christ Jesus.

My wife, Wendee, and I blended our families in 2012. Wendee had three girls, Katrina, April, and Vanessa, and I had two boys, Charles and Hunter, and two girls, Christin and Caitlin. In 2014, we were blessed with a son, Dawson, together. 

We have served the Lord in many ways as a family, and beginning in 2018, we worked at Hyde Park Baptist Church & School in Austin, where I served as the Director of Facility Operations, and Wendee was a Preschool Teacher. We moved to Tyler in June of 2022 where I continued serving the Lord at Green Acres Baptist Church as Maintenance Director. After being in Tyler just a few weeks, Wendee started working at Grace Elementary. 

In my free time, I enjoy bow hunting, fishing, outdoors, and coaching youth sports. 

I joined the Grace team in July of 2024, and my hope is to build on the existing foundation of the Facilities ministry, seeking all guidance and direction from the Holy Spirit. I want our team to strive for and exude excellence in all aspects of facility management and facility personnel with one common goal – to glorify God!

Lead Facilities Supervisor, University Blvd Campus

Heath France

I grew up right here in Tyler and didn’t leave until my college days at Sam Houston State University. I eventually came back home to UT Tyler and finished up college here. 

I grew up in the church with my parents allowing me to always go to all the church events and learn and grow in my faith. Even though I was baptized at an early age, it wasn’t until after college that I really made the change to pursue being a man of God. I work daily at denying myself to learn to serve others, and I have great friends and family that hold me accountable.

God allowed me to marry my beautiful bride, Casie, and we have two kids, Jace and Joanna, and a lively mini-poodle, Molly. With sports, dance, school activities, and doing things with family, we always seem to stay busy.

In my free time, I enjoy anything outdoors. I grew up camping and hiking and achieved my Eagle Scout award back in high school. That really solidified how I see God’s greatness in nature. I am also really interested in aviation. Just out of college, I pursued getting my helicopter certificate, and I enjoy learning anything about aviation. 

I joined the Grace team in August of 2024, and my hope is to be part of something greater than myself and to grow with Grace and give back what they have given to our family.

Facilities Supervisor, Lindale & Dover Campuses

Victor Ortiz

I was born and raised in Chicago. I’m blessed to have parents who were saved when I was a newborn. Years later, my dad began pastoring a church in Indiana. Through the lives of my parents, I was able to see how to live as a follower of Jesus.

My wife Shelby and I have been happily married for almost four years. After we got married, we wanted to find a church in Tyler to call home together. Grace was the second church we visited, and we knew almost immediately it was where God wanted us to plug in. We have a beautiful baby girl, Charlotte Kane. In my free time, I love playing basketball, volleyball, board games, and shooting sports. 

I joined the Grace team in July of 2024, and my hope is to faithfully serve Grace Community Church and School and to give glory to God through all we do. 

Technology and Ops Coordinator

Ezra Sanchez

Biography coming soon!