Staff

We can't wait to meet you this Sunday.

Pastor

Pastor

Renae Hester

Renae is a native of Georgia, married to Joe (36 years). They have three sons and six grandchildren. Pastor Renae is currently a Chaplain at the Christian Care Community in Bowling Green. She is a graduate of Samford University and the Southern Seminary in Louisville. She loves spending time with her husband, her grandchildren, and the Georgia Bulldogs.

renae@franklinfirstumc.com

Administrator 

Administrator 

Stacie Johnson

Stacie Johnson has been serving at Franklin First United Methodist Church since September 2021, following a lifelong calling to church work. She brings years of experience in church administration, communications, and creative design, along with a passion for helping others feel welcomed and connected.

Stacie holds a degree in Music Education from Western Kentucky University and has a rich background as a music teacher, director, and music therapist. She also serves as Assistant Conductor of the Franklin Community Chorus, continuing her love for music and ministry.

stacie@franklinfirstumc.com

Choir Director

Choir Director

Bonita Schwab

Bonita Schwab has devoted her life to music education and ministry, serving as an elementary music teacher for 31 years. Her passion for music extends deeply into her long-standing connection with Franklin First United Methodist Church, where she has been actively involved for 45 years. Over the decades, Bonita has faithfully served the church in a variety of musical leadership roles. She began as the Handbell Director, later led as Children’s Choir Director, and currently serves as Chancel Choir Director while continuing her work with the handbell program. Her dedication has helped shape generations of musicians and worship experiences within the church community. Bonita is married to Frank Schwab, and together they have three daughters: Michelle Antle, Laura Doty (Brandon), and Pamela Smith Ingram (Jason). She is a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren—Alivia, Houston, Madaleigh, Macy, Addison, Jaxon, and Blayke—who bring her immense joy. In her free time, Bonita enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, reading, playing the piano, and caring for her grandchildren.

bonita.schwab@franklinfirstumc.com

Organist

Organist

Patsy Lane

A devoted member of FFUMC since 1973 and serving as organist and pianist since 1984, Patsy has cultivated a lifelong passion for music that began at the age of eight. Music has been both a calling and a source of joy throughout her life, especially in the context of worship. For more than 60 years, Patsy also had the privilege of teaching and mentoring countless young musicians, encouraging them to grow in both skill and confidence. Sharing the gift of music—whether through worship or instruction—continues to be one of the greatest blessings in Patsy's life.

Contemporary Worship Leader 

Contemporary Worship Leader 

AJ McGillivray

AJ McGillivray began his time at Franklin First United Methodist Church as the drummer for the contemporary worship band and has since stepped into the role of Contemporary Worship Leader. 

Outside the church, AJ serves as a Resident Hall Director at Western Kentucky University. He is currently pursuing a Master of Education in Student Affairs.

AJ is also an active musician, playing with the band West on I-65 and continuing to perform on drums and bass guitar. Through both ministry and music, he brings energy, leadership, and a heart for connection to everything he does.