Born in the Fort Worth, Texas, area and raised in the Piney Woods of East Texas, John has learned to appreciate life among the trees—he far prefers them to dust! After graduating from Carthage High School, he attended Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas, earning a Bachelor of Music degree in 1987. He continued graduate studies in music while serving in music and worship ministry, beginning at age 14.
After marrying Lydia and serving in full-time music and education ministry, John moved with his family to Jackson to attend Reformed Theological Seminary, earning his M.Div. in 1995. He then served for 10 years as Assistant Pastor at Arlington Presbyterian Church in Texas before returning to Mississippi in 2005 as Assistant Pastor at Lakeland Presbyterian Church. In 2025, he earned his Doctor of Ministry from RTS focused on disciple-making.
John and Lydia have two grown children, John Christopher and Hannah, both members of LPC, as well as two wonderful in-laws, Marguerite and Josiah. They also enjoy keeping up with their five grandchildren. John is an avid reader, enjoys sports and the outdoors, and occasionally dabbles in vegetable gardening.