staff

Pastor Justin came to First Baptist Church in the fall of 2015, after serving as pastor of two churches in Georgia. He is originally from Smithville, TN, and is a graduate of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (D.Min, 2012), Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div, 2006), and the University of Tennessee (B.S., 2002). In 2010, he married Emily, and they have two daughters, Sadie and Jade. Pastor Justin has a passion for expository preaching and Bible teaching, and a heart for…

Cory has been serving as Associate Pastor of Spiritual Growth and Missions at First Baptist Church, Dandridge since August of 2008. As Associate Pastor, he oversees all aspects of education at FBC including Sunday School, Christian Life University, and Small Groups. He also oversees all of the local, national, and international mission efforts. His desire is to lead people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and to empower them for ministry and to be on mission. Cory holds a…

Chris joined our staff in February of 2010. A native of Ohio, Chris attended the University of Richmond and received a Bachelor of Arts in Leadership Studies, a specialized multidisciplinary Business Degree focused on nonprofit organizations. He met his wife, Kristel, while attending Richmond. Following college, Chris studied for the MDiv. in Church Music at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. In addition, Chris has an MA in Worship Studies from Liberty University, a MMus in Choral Conducting from Messiah University, and…

Josh joined the staff in March of 2023. He comes to our church after serving in two churches in North Carolina and Tennessee. He is a native of East Tennessee and holds degrees from Walter State Community College (AS in Business), The University of Tennessee-Knoxville (BA in Psychology) and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div. in Christian Ministry).  ‭Josh loves having the opportunity to partner with parents to equip and reach young people with the Good News of Jesus. He has…