Senior Pastor
Dave Melton
Dave became the Senior Minister of FUMC in 2018. He has recently served Providence UMC and numerous large churches in western North Carolina. Dave is an elder in full connection with the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church. Dave is a graduate of Davidson College; received a Master of Divinity degree from Duke Divinity School; and received the degree of Doctor of Divinity from High Point University. Dave’s passion for global missions is evidenced by his work in establishing ongoing foreign missions in Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Bulgaria, and Kenya. Dave has served as President of the Steering Committee of the Reynolds LEAD Academy, a professional leadership program involving the enhancement of senior pastors in the Western North Carolina Conference in the areas of leadership, evangelism, and discipleship. In 2015, Dave led LEAD Academy pastors as they attended a worldwide church conference in London, England, before exploring our Methodist roots in that country on a Wesley tour.
Director of Children’s Ministry, Youth and Media
Tara Blake
Tara has taught theatre for over 20 years and currently she teaches at West Caldwell High School where she also serves as Yearbook Advisor and Senior Advisor. Tara has loved her time at FUMC, assisting Pastor Dave in worship services and teaching along with Miss Angie in Godly Play, and is excited to serve in a greater capacity. Tara is mama to two boys: Smith and Charlie and two fur “children”: Chili and Joey.
Director of Music Ministries
Jonathan Beal
Jon is the son of the Honorable and Mrs. Beverly T. Beal. He and his wife live in Lenoir with their daughter Brianna and son Grainger. Jon was raised in Lenoir and attended the Caldwell County Schools; Lower Creek Elementary, William Lenoir Middle, and Hibriten High School. After graduating from Wake Forest University with a B. A. in Music Education in 1993, he became a teacher in the North Carolina Public Schools. Currently, Jon is the band director at Heritage Christian School in Hudson, NC. He is also a retired Band Director, general music teacher, guitar instructor, and bus driver from Caldwell County, North Carolina. In 2011, Jon received the Maxine Swalin Award for Outstanding Music Educator of North Carolina. He is also an instructor at the Harper School for the Performing Arts. Jon has served as the Music Director at Mt Hermon United Methodist Church, Hudson United Methodist Church, and now, the First Methodist Church in Lenoir.
Worship Leader
Lynne Carter
Lynne brings her talents to the First Light Service weekly. She leads a group of committed volunteers to prepare for and lead our early worship service. She has been blessed with an amazing voice and organizational skills that help her deliver powerful praise sets each week.
ORGANIST
Johnathan is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Music at Lenoir-Rhyne University with a minor in Sacred Music & Music Education. Johnathan’s primary instrument is the piano; secondary instrument is organ. He is currently a sophomore. After he completes his undergrad his hopes are to complete a Masters in Choral Conducting and work as a Music Director for Church and teach Music Education. Johnathan in 2024 received the “Milli Link Endowment Fund Organ Scholarship from the First Lutheran Church Endowment Fund.” He is using his talents in the Hickory and Morganton area. Johnathan is part of “Spirit of LR” Marching Band under the direction of Dr. Tyler Stark playing keyboard and is part of the Wind Symphony and Wind Ensemble as a pianist. Johnathan is part of the Lenoir-Rhyne A Cappella Choir where he previously served as the vice president of the A Cappella Choir. Johnathan works at Lenoir-Rhyne as the Music Program Work Study.
Director of Robbins Preschool
Erika Murphy
Erika has much experience with our preschool program, as both of her sons were Robbins students. During those years, Erika was extremely involved, both as a parent and a volunteer. Erika’s employment with Robbins began in August 2021, meaning that she has been an integral part of our program for many years. Erika is a graduate of Charleston Southern University where she received her B.S. degree in leadership and psychology. She also serves as a volunteer in the local school system and is an advocate for children in foster care.
Facilities Manager
Daniel (Danny) Clark
Danny is in charge of all the facilities at FUMC. He sets up our various groups and classes that use the church. He is also in charge of the church grounds as well as maintaining our equipment. Danny’s work makes a big difference in the way things run – and you’ll notice it!
Church Hostess
Kay Lanier
no email
Kay joined the FUMC staff in 1995. She has two children and four grandchildren. Kay’s responsibilities include hosting various meals throughout the year, such as Room at the Table, meetings, receptions, etc. Kay and her staff do an incredible job. The food and their wonderful attitudes make our kitchen staff one of the best anywhere.
Director of Youth Ministries
Administrative Assistant
Legina Walker
Joining the staff of FUMC in the spring of 2024. Legina and her husband live in Granite Falls. She has worked in various clerical and purchasing office positions. Legina currently assists the staff and congregation in all administrative tasks.
Financial Secretary
Karen Sheets
Karen joined our staff in 2023 and is a wife and mother of twin sons. Karen has lived in the area her whole life. She has worked in clerical and billing for several years and also worked in banking for a few years. Karen is happy to be a part of First United Methodist Church!