I spent most of my growing-up years in Chipley, Florida, a small town in the panhandle of the Sunshine State. From the time I was born in Ft. Worth, Texas, my family moved to several other states including Oklahoma and Georgia before we landed in Florida. 

I received my BA in English from Tennessee Temple University in Chattanooga, TN, and then got an MA in Teaching ESL (English as a Second Language) at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, AL. (Roll Tide!) I received an MDiv from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, NC.

My wife Mary Jo and I have three grown children: Caleb (wife Abby and son Micah), Annelise (husband John), and Kara (husband Jimmy).

In the short time I've served at the Chapel, I've really enjoyed partnering with the many people at our church who have a heart for the nations. I also love encouraging others to grow in their love for Christ and His Word.

I’ve had the joy of teaching international students from nearly every continent (except Australia and Antarctica). My family and I love meeting international people and learning about the beauty of their cultures. I'm fascinated with learning languages (although I'm more of a dabbler than a polyglot). I’m also a lover of classical music, and I play the piano and trumpet.

Billy grew up in a pastor’s family, so he heard the gospel from a very young age. At the age of 7, he trusted Christ as his Savior. As he grew in his faith, he became convinced that God was leading him into the ministry. While attending Tennessee Temple University, two significant things happened: he gained a global perspective on ministry, and he met a lovely young lady named Mary Jo who would eventually become his wife. At the University of Alabama, he had the joy of teaching students from all over the world as he pursued an M.A. in teaching ESL. After graduating, he and his family moved to Taipei, Taiwan, where he served with Overseas Radio and Television, Inc., teaching English through media and participating in ORTV’s gospel outreach and Bible teaching ministries. Since returning to the U.S., Billy has taught ESL in elementary schools, middle schools, community colleges, university intensive English programs, and even seminaries. He received an M.Div. from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and has served in several ministry roles related to global ministry, small groups, and discipleship. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with international friends and learning languages, as well as playing board games with his family (and usually losing).