Sue Anderson, originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma, graduated from the University of Louisiana Monroe and has been a dedicated member of the First Methodist staff since 2002. She has been married to her husband, Larry, for 40 years, and together they have two children and three grandchildren. Sue enjoys Almond Joy candy and finds daily encouragement in her favorite Bible verse, Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Tonda Butler, originally from Monroe, Louisiana, has been a valued member of the First Methodist staff since 2009. She has been married to Rev. Vincent Butler for 30+ years, and together they have one daughter, along with their beloved “doggy-sons.” Tonda enjoys shopping, decorating, and cooking. Her favorite candy is Hot Tamales, and she finds inspiration in her favorite Bible verse, 1 Corinthians 2:9: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived—the things God has prepared for those who love him.”

Linda Crawford, originally from Shreveport, Louisiana, graduated from the University of Louisiana Monroe (formerly NLU). She has been a member of First Methodist for more than 35 years and joined the staff in 2020. As a retired teacher, Linda has a passion for taking care of children, ensuring they are safe, nurtured, and encouraged in their growth. She is married to Danny Crawford, and has two daughters and four grandchildren. Linda enjoys Hot Tamales candy and treasures her favorite Bible verse, John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Lindsey Killen, originally from Brandon, Mississippi, graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with a degree in Fashion Merchandising and Marketing. She joined the First Methodist staff in 2025. Lindsey is married to Will Killen, and they have two sons. Her favorite candy is Snickers, and her favorite Bible passage is Psalm 121, which reminds her of the Lord’s faithful protection and guidance.

Enrique Magaña, originally from Ft Myers, Florida, joined the First Methodist staff in 2025. He is a talented musician who leads and inspires our worship teams with creativity and heart. Enrique is married to Alex Magaña, and together they have three children. He enjoys Kit Kat candy and lives by his favorite Bible verse, Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Blake Marchbank, originally from Sterlington but now residing in Mangham, graduated from the University of Louisiana Monroe with a BA in History. He has been a lifelong member of First Methodist and joined the staff in 2021. Blake is married to Mary Marchbank, and they have one son. His favorite candies are Raisinets and Dots, and he finds inspiration in his favorite Bible passage, Matthew 28:19–20: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”

Celebrating 40 years of faithful service at First Methodist Monroe, Hunt Neely has been a beloved part of our worship life for decades. A native of Warren, Arkansas, and raised in Farmerville, Louisiana, Hunt is a graduate of ULM (formerly NLU) and has also enjoyed a successful career as a CPA for over 30+ years. Beyond his professional life, Hunt is a devoted father to his two daughters, Morgan and Lindsay, and has opened his home and heart to 17 foreign exchange “sons” from around the world—an incredible testament to his generosity and hospitality. Hunt’s joyful spirit is reflected in his favorite Bible verse, Psalm 100: “Make a joyful noise to the Lord…”—a fitting reflection of the music and praise he has faithfully led for so many years. And on a lighter note, he never turns down a good Payday candy bar! We are grateful for Hunt’s decades of dedication, talent, and servant-hearted leadership in music ministry.

Emily Martin, originally from Monroe, Louisiana, graduated from Neville High School and LSU. She joined the First Methodist staff in 2023 and leads the hospitality ministry, ensuring that every guest and church member feels welcomed and cared for. Emily is married to Wes Martin, and together they have two sons. She enjoys all kinds of chocolate candy and is guided by her favorite Bible verse, 2 Timothy 1:7: “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

Kathryn McCarty, born and raised in Shreveport, Louisiana, graduated from Louisiana Tech with a degree in Graphic Design and has been a member of the First Methodist staff since 2013. As Director of Communications, she oversees the church’s messaging, media, and public relations efforts to keep the congregation connected and informed. She is the mother of two children, enjoys Smarties Squashies candy, and finds encouragement in her favorite Bible verse, Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him. Who have been called according to his purpose.”

Jana Spillers, originally from West Monroe, graduated from West Ouachita and joined the First Methodist staff in 2007. She has been married to her husband, Adam, for 16 years, and together they have four children. Jana enjoys Kettle Corn and draws strength from her favorite Bible verse, Proverbs 14:1: “The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.”