Dr. Jesse T. Yarbrough, Pastor

Pastor Jesse Yarbrough joined our staff having served for over ten years as pastor of first Baptist Church, Columbus NC. Under his leadership the church grew 50% in Sunday School and worship attendance. Missions involvement also increased. Prior to that time, he served as pastor of Caroleen Baptist, Caroleen, NC. He is a graduate of both Gardner-Webb University ('73), and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary ('75  M.Div.,'83 D.Min). Our pastor has served on the General Board of the NC Baptist State Convention, and held a variety of responsibilities with the associations where he pastored. He is a native of Roxboro, NC and married to Belinda Thompson of Tryon, NC. They are blessed with two children who are married and live in Western NC.  Guests and regular attenders of First Fairmont find Pastor Jesse to be a very warm and approachable individual.  His involvement in our community and sense of humor is enthusiastic. He is regularly called upon to provide programs for other churches and organizations of our area.  Our worship services reflect his refreshing spirit and inspiration as a preacher.  While we know that it is God alone who gives growth to His church, we are very grateful for God's use of our pastor who has helped cultivate an atmosphere for the growth that is taking place in our congregation. 

Minister Of Youth and Children:

Pray as we seek the Lord's direction in filling this ministry need.

Becky Elvington, Organist

We are delighted to have the wonderfully talented Becky Elvington as our church organist!  Becky serves as the administrative assistant for the Pee Dee Baptist Association in Dillon, SC, so she is well-versed in Baptist life.  Becky, along with our pianist, Jackie Townsend, presents several organ/piano concerts each year, which thrill audiences that come from miles away!  We are extremely blessed to have such a great group of musicians at First Baptist Church!

 Luther Townsend and wife Jackie serve as our music leadership team.

Luther is director of the adult choir, and Jackie is the pianist. Luther is a retired band director, but being retired does not mean he lacks energy. Luther works diligently to make the most of choir practice time and through his leadership, our choir has almost dubbled in size. Jackie is a retired elementary school teacher. Throughout their vocational years, Luther and Jackie have been a ministry team serving in local church music leadership. We are blessed that the Lord has brought them to us. They help us worship, celebrate and rejoice in the Lord.

Patricia Sealey, Church Secretary

Mrs. Patricia Sealey accepted a position on the staff at First Baptist on August 28, 1995, and has been a vital part of the operation of the church since that time.  Before coming to work at First Baptist, Patricia worked with Robeson Health Care Corporation and, most notably, for P.C. Purvis, D.D.S. for 21 years.   She is married to Wade Sealey and has a son Stuart, daughter-in-law Mindy, and two granddaughters, Emma Grace and Abby Elizabeth.  Stuart and his family live in Wake Forest.  Wade & Trish LOVE spending time with Emma & Abby!!!

Carolyn Floyd, Financial Secretary

The newest member of our church staff is Mrs. Carolyn Floyd, who began work as our church's financial secretary in January 2008.  However, Carolyn is not new to us, as she is a long-time member of First Baptist Church and has occasionally served as interim financial secretary.  We are so glad to have Carolyn's energy and knowledge devoted to such an integral part of our church's operation!

Ned Bullock, Superintendent of Buildings & Grounds

Joining the staff of First Baptist in August 1998, Mr. Ned Bullock is a vital part of our church, making sure the facilities are kept looking and working their best.  Ned was employed for numerous years by Carolina Power and Light Company, before coming to manage the buildings and grounds of our church.  Ned also plays an integral role in making sure our church is on mission, as he annually leads two groups of youth and adults from our church to World Changers projects and occasionally leads our Baptist Men on missions projects.  He is also the official driver of our new church bus!  We are so glad he and his wife Norma are a part of the First Baptist family!