MEET OUR TEAM

Our team is committed to the cause of Christ and shares a common goal: to reach others in a positive way through ministry and witness. You will find them to be friendly, caring, compassionate people who love the Lord, always striving to make a difference in the lives of those in our church, our community, and our world. If you have not met the FUMC team, take a moment to learn a little about them.

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SENIOR PASTOR | REV. JOSH MCLEMORE

I am so excited to be here in Blackshear at First United Methodist Church!  I got my Bachelors degree in Apologetics from Luther Rice Bible College and my Masters of Divinity from Candler School of Theology at Emory University. I spent over a decade in student ministry at various churches before entering into the ordination process in the United Methodist Church. I was raised in Cordele and was an active member in First UMC there growing up. I found my faith and my calling in the UMC and I am humbled to be able to serve in the denomination that raised me.  My son, Isaiah, and I have been blessed with a wonderful church in Blackshear and we would love to meet you and grow together in Christ!

Email Rev. Josh

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DIRECTOR OF MUSIC/ORGANIST | JEFF LEWIS

A native of Baxley, Jeff Lewis began his ministry in church music at the remarkable age of 12 when he was appointed Organist at First Baptist Church. From those early beginnings, God cultivated in him a lifelong passion for worship, sacred music, and serving the Church through music ministry.Jeff earned his Bachelor of Music degree from Valdosta State University and later received his Master of Church Music from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. Both degrees focused on Church Music and Organ Performance, providing the foundation for a distinguished career that has spanned more than 50 years. Throughout his ministry, Jeff has faithfully served congregations across many major Protestant denominations, bringing a rich understanding of worship traditions, liturgy, and sacred music to every church he has called home.His dedication to excellence in music and worship has touched countless lives and inspired generations of musicians and congregations alike. Jeff believes that music is one of God’s greatest gifts to the Church — a powerful way to inspire faith, bring comfort, and lead hearts into worship. He considers it a blessing and privilege to continue sharing that gift through ministry each week.

Email Jeff

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF | KRISTEN SLOAN​

Kristen is a native of Yulee, FL and has lived in Blackshear for 32 years.  She is married to Lee Sloan and they have two sons and a daughter-in-law who serve in the military.  They have three grandchildren.  Kristen joined the staff in March of 2020.

Email Kristen

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NURSERY STAFF | MS. LIBBA , MS. MANDY

We are a group of women that are dedicated  to keeping your children safe and nurturing them. Ms. Libba and Ms. Mandy work with the Infant nursery Birth to age 3.

YOUTH DIRECTOR | RENAE PUTALA

B.L.A.S.T LEADER | KESHIA WOOD

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