Beth Snarr
Lead Pastor
Pastor Beth is a native Floridian who has been in ministry for over 20 years. She’s a graduate of Florida State University with a degree in Elementary Education and a Masters of Divinity from Duke University. A few of her favorite things are: her family, friends, going to the movies, live theatre performances, FSU football, and, of course, Jesus!
Dr. Harold Henderson
Pastoral Associate
Pastor Harold is delighted to have re-joined the staff at First UMC although in a different role when he was appointed as interim Senior Pastor at this church from 2007 to 2012. Harold and his wife, Kathy, are thrilled to be back serving and worshiping in her home church.
LYNNETTE EDMONDSON
Children’s Ministry Coordinator
Lynnette has lived in Gainesville almost her entire life and her career before joining our staff was as a public school teacher for over 30 years teaching K-3. After retiring in 2018, Lynnette missed working with children and their families, and the blessing to have the opportunity to touch many lives as a teacher. She joined our staff in 2022 and looks forward to helping our First UMC kids grow in their faith!
Michael Ekbladh
DIRECTOR of Music Ministries & Worship Arts
Michael holds a Masters degree in Music-Conducting from Texas Christian University and has pursued a Masters in Sacred Music from Southern Methodist University.
Kristy Farrell
Director of Finance & Human Resources
Kristy was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. and is married with four grown sons. She joins the First UMC team with 20+ years of business and financial experience. Kristy loves spending time outdoors on her homestead during the day and reading a good book at night.
Larry Resch
Director of Communications & Community Engagement
Larry and his wife, Cheryl, grew up in Maryland and relocated to Florida to escape the cold and dreary winters “up North”. Larry feels that his previous employment and ministry tech work in Maryland was God’s way of preparing him for his ministry here at First UMC.
Janet Rocap
Director of Adult Discipleship
Janet has been an active First UMC member for several years. She has many years administrative experience in the non-profit sector, including Director of Adult Ministries at Genesis UMC in Cary, NC. A Boston-area native, her interests are history, reading, and family time with husband Carl, two dogs, and 3 rescue cats.
Charlene Smith
Office Manager
Charlene became actively involved at First UMC when she began attending as a child. After retiring from a career working in the non-profit sector, she has returned to her home church and loves serving others through the many ministry opportunities First UMC provides for the Gainesville community.
Devonia Watson
Custodian
Melissa Williamson
FUMPers Preschool Director
