Leadership

Robert was born in Birmingham, AL and grew up in both Greensboro, AL and Palm Harbor, FL, among a few other places.  He graduated from the University of Alabama in 2003. After Robert graduated seminary in 2007 at Candler School of Theology in Atlanta, he and his wife Heather have served churches in Gulfport, Newberry, and Ocala before arriving in beautiful Dade City.  They enjoy camping in their Airstream trailer, all things Disney, and gardening.

Valerie joined our staff in October 2007. She is originally from Cumberland, Rhode Island and move to Dade City in 2005. Valerie and her husband have one daughter, Amanda and two grandchildren, Cayden and Asher.

Holly joined our staff in 2012 after an 8-year teaching career in Pasco County. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Flagler College and her Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from Saint Leo University. Holly and her husband, Aaron, have four children: Owen, Miles, Eleanor and Callie. As someone who loves to plan, Holly is in constant awe of the plans that God had in place bringing her to Dade City First UMC for her dream job and amazing church home for her family.

Mark joined the church team in the team in 2024. He has worked in both youth ministry and the classroom, teaching High School English for the past 5 years. He has a Bachelor's Degree in Pre-Seminary Studies from Christopher Newport University and a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Virginia Tech, both schools in his home state of Virginia. Mark, his wife and his son call Dade City First United Methodist Church home.

Frank was born in Maine, but grew up in California. He was a former machine shop owner before working for Dade City FUMC. Frank is extremely passionate about music, and loves to play guitar and drums in his spare time. 

Samuel has worked at Dade City First UMC for three years. He is currently studying at Pasco Hernando State College, and enjoys building computers, sound systems and learning more about technology. 

We are fortunate to have Heather serving in our nursery with infants and toddlers. She is a wife, momma of three, and educator at Centennial Elementary School. Mrs. Heather embodies love, joy, and sparkles!  She enjoys creating opportunities for littles to wonder, as they explore and soak up God's love.

Linda is a retired teacher, former Guardian ad Litem, and nanny. She has many years of experience serving in children’s ministry and has a huge heart for caring for children. Ms. Linda enjoys making out-of-this-world fudge, beautiful sour dough bread, and cheering on Alabama football-- Roll Tide!

Michael is a life-long member of Dade City First UMC. He is currently studying Computer Science at Florida Southern College. Mr. Michael brings a bright smile and comical spirit to our Connected Kids Ministry, assisting Ms. Holly with Children's Church and Power Up Kids Sunday School. He enjoys art, drawing, and chicken nuggets.