OUR STAFF
Rev. Amanda Stratton, Pastor
dekalbpreacher@aol.com
Pastor Amanda was appointed May 1, 2020. She is a Provisional Elder of the Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. Her passions include preaching, teaching, and equipping congregations in outreach ministry and evangelism.
Suzanne Miller, Administrative Assistant
dekalbsecretary@aol.com
Suzanne has been serving DeKalb FUMC for over 25 years. Beyond all her administrative responsibilities she loves to offer a smile and greet whoever stops by during the week.
Paul Tidwell, Youth Ministries Director
paul.r.tidwell@gmail.com
A complete joy in serving God is what best characterizes Paul Tidwell, FUMC Youth Pastor. With knowledge in biology and ecology, Paul brings a unique perspective to learning about God. Children and youth are the future of the church and he is committed to discipleship in which the church and the Christian faith become meaningful and joyful in life. Paul leads Bible study for both our Cubs (5th-6th grade), and our Youth (7th-12th grade), and provides pastoral care. He is married to Brooke and they have three kids; Joslin, Charles, and Nora.
Breanna Murphy, Youth Activities Director
dekalbyouth@yahoo.com
Breanna serves as the activities director of our Student Ministry program. She plans meals and meaningful activities that help youth better understand God's love. Breanna's passion is helping youth get closer to God and grow in His love.
Becky Rich, Nursery Director
Becky joins our staff after years of faithful service in both administrative and ministry committees. She loves children and feels that this position is a calling of God. Our nursery is a fun and safe place for your little ones, and with the added measures of security and communication, parents can rest assured knowing their kids are cared for and safe.
Betty Bates, Pianist
Betty is our pianist during Sunday worship and other occasions. She also provides accompaniment for our men's quartet, Jubilee. She loves music and enjoys playing for the church.
Nina Rhea, Organist
Nina provides musical accompaniment for Sunday worship and other occasions. She enjoys playing the hymns of our faith and delights in using her gifts to serve God.
Shane Valencia, Director of Music Ministry
shane.valencia50@gmail.com
Shane Valencia is currently an organ student at Texarkana College. Organ is his principle instrument but he also plays piano, harpsichord, saxophone, flute, clarinet, tuba and the recorder. Shane was the 2017 recipient of The AR-TX Music Connection Texarkana College Scholarship; he is also the recipient of the AFMC/NFMC William Yick Collegiate Award in 2018. He has been part of the TMEA TTCCDA All State Choir for the past 3 years, and is also a member of The Texarkana Regional Chorale.
Clayton Graef, A/V Tech
Clayton provides audio and video support for our Sunday morning and special services; which includes sound support, video projection, and recording the service for distribution.