Beth has served on the ministry staff of First Baptist Rutherfordton since 2002, and has worn many hats during her tenure here! She attended Gardner-Webb University for both her undergraduate degree in Sacred Music and her Master of Divinity degree. Beth enjoys reading, genealogy, sewing, scrapbooking, and being in the kitchen. She and her husband, Dale, have two adult children and three grandchildren.

John has been part of our ministry staff since 2016, bringing with him more than 21 years of experience in youth ministry. He attended Gardner-Webb University for both his undergraduate degree (Religious Education) and his Master of Divinity Degree (Pastoral Care and Counseling). Additionally, he serves at Blue Ridge Hope as the Director of Community Engagement and leads an afterschool program called HOPEworks for middle and high school students. In his free time, John delights in playing the guitar, diving into the worlds of Lord of the Rings and Marvel, and savoring Starbucks coffee. Happily married to Mindy, they have three children: Hayden, Mackenzie, and Abby.

Donna joined our ministry staff in January of 2023. She brings years of experience working with both children and adults in church, non-profits, and the school system. Donna has a Master’s Degree in Education. She is passionate about providing a safe environment, where children can learn about Jesus, ask questions, serve others, and feel loved. Donna has three children, two who are adulting on their own in the Charlotte area. 

Debbie joined our staff in April of 2025. Debbie is a lifelong resident of Rutherford County and raised her children here. She is both a grandmother and a great-grandmother. Debbie attends Mountain Creek Baptist Church in Gilkey. She brings years of experience as a controller and manager to our church. 

Alison joined our staff in 2016, bringing with her years of experience as a music instructor, organist, and accompanist. In addition to her work here, she is the staff accompanist for the Department of Music at Gardner-Webb University, accompanies vocal students, and serves as collaborative artist for the Gardner Singers. She received her Bachelor of Music and Master of Music in Piano Performance from the University of Maine. When not behind the piano, she can often be found helping patrons at her local public library or spending time at home with a cat on her lap and a dog at her side. A perennial student, she recently completed a degree in Library Science and is learning to play the harp.