Our Staff

Meet the individuals who serve you and your family at FBC Hartselle

Dr. Clayton Speed

Dr. Clayton Speed

Lead Pastor

 

I have been the Lead Pastor at First Baptist Hartselle since August 2015. My pastoral role revolves around preaching, leading, and establishing the vision for the church. My hope and passion is to help people experience the gospel of Jesus in every aspect of life and then to live into the calling that Jesus Christ has given each one of us. In other words, to “live the Gospel OUT LOUD” every day!

I grew up in Selma, Alabama. I’m a West Point graduate and later got my doctorate at Beeson Divinity School.

My wife, Mary, and I have been married since June 1993. I definitely “out-married” my coverage in every way! We have been blessed with four children – Clayton, Jr., Isabelle, Josh, and Gabby. We came to Hartselle in August 2015 after serving on staff at FBC Trussville. We absolutely LOVE living in Hartselle – the City of Southern Hospitality. It may be the best-kept secret in the State of Alabama! Although I know that I’m biased, I believe that FBC Hartselle is the best church ever – we love our family of faith here. Hang time equals family time in my life. I like cars, gadgets, anything that goes fast; and, of course, Army football!! Go Army!!

I’m also a “dog person.” We have three big dogs at our house – a yellow lab (Nick), a Bernese (Leo), and a French Mastiff (Teddy); and one small Corgi (Lillabet) who rules them all!

Trent Nolen

Trent Nolen

Student Minister

 

I have been the Student Minister at FBC since October 2021. Before coming to Hartselle, I served in ministry in Montgomery and Demopolis.

I am an Alabama native and lived in Dadeville all of my childhood. I grew up in a Christian home with parents who loved and modeled faithful service to the Lord and His people. I have also been blessed with more mentors and friends along my journey than could be mentioned; all of whom have made an impact on my growth in faith and ministry.

My Bachelor’s degree in Health Promotions was earned from Auburn University. War Eagle! My Master’s degree is in Religion, concentrating on Christian Leadership and is from Liberty University Baptist Theological Seminary.

My family includes wife Kasie, (pronounced “Cassie”) and our four children: Joseph, Sarah, Hannah, and Matthew. 

When not at church, you can find me with family, students, or friends. For hobbies I enjoy golf, hunting, and trying to be a handy man at home for Kasie.

Lauren Hibbs

Lauren Hibbs

PALS Director

I began work at First Baptist Hartselle in 2017, serving first in the church office as Administrative Assistant. After three years in that position, I became PALS director and remain in that position.

I grew up in the small community of Caddo where I graduated from East Lawrence High School. I have a degree in accounting and a certificate in child psychology. My dad was a pastor, so church life has always been an integral part of my life and something I’ve always known I would be involved in.

My husband Corey and I have two children: Avery Kate and Annie Ruth. We have had several other precious babies pass through our home through the foster care system.

Any spare time is spent shopping, reading, and binging on whole seasons of Netflix offerings. You may also find us at home listening to oldies from Elvis and the Eagles on our record player!

Susan Bennich

Susan Bennich

Administrative Assistant

 

I began serving on staff at First Baptist Hartselle in June of 2004 as an administrative assistant.  I served as the Office Manager for 15+ years.  In January of 2022, I chose to become a part-time administrative assistant in order to spend time with our grandson.

I grew up in Flint, AL and graduated from Hartselle High School in 1981.  I obtained my degree in medical assisting from Calhoun Community College & UAB. I formerly worked for several physician’s offices, owned a children’s clothing store, and was a stay-at-home mom.

I have been married to Larry “Sport” Bennich since November of 1987.  We have two adult children, Tyler Bennich & Chelsea Vest and husband, Slayton. We have one grandchild, Bennett, born in November of 2021. I love being his NANA!

I like to spend time outdoors with my husband and family. We have two dogs – an Australian Shepherd – Charlie and a Border Collie – Sophie. I also love to watch the Atlanta Braves & Crimson Tide.

Rex Looney

Rex Looney

Minister of Worship and Adult Discipleship

 

I have been the Minister of Worship and Adult Discipleship at FBC since Spring 2021. Before coming to Hartselle, I served several churches in other towns in Alabama. In total, I have spent more than 30 years in full-time ministry.

I am a native of Alabama having lived here all my life. I graduated from Hartselle High School in 1980 and attended the University of Mobile in Mobile, Alabama. 

Mitzi and I have been married since 1984. Our three grown children are Kyle, Katherine and husband Matthew, and Sarah Beth and husband Paul. Our two granddaughters are Emma Ryan and Ruby Christine.

My hobbies and leisure time activities include hunting, playing golf and riding ATVs. I love to play guitar and write songs. I am a member of ASCAP – the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers.

Janice Cross

Janice Cross

Senior Adult Associate

 

I have been a member of FBC since 1989 and began my work as the Senior Adult Ministry Associate in March 2020. Before coming on staff, I served in many capacities including Music Ministry, Mission Committee, Missionary House Committee, Women’s Missionary Union, Youth Leader/Chaperone and even the Bus Committee!

I am a native of nearby Cullman and have degrees from Cullman College (A.A.), the University of Alabama at Birmingham (Certificate/ Physical Therapist Assistant), and Athens State University (B.S./Health Science). I had more than 40 years’ experience in the medical profession serving in the field of physical therapy. There I had the opportunity to minister to all ages, but always had a special place in my heart for the “Seasoned Adult.” 

My work with the “Seasoned Adults” here at FBC includes Pryme Tymers’ regular monthly meetings, weekly chair exercise classes, game days, occasional picnics and road trips. Most importantly, I make visits, phone calls, and work to keep our senior Adult Ministry members informed by newsletters, emails, and cards.

My husband, Dwight, and I have been married since 1995; and we have one son, Matt. The queen of our house is Sophie, the spoiled Dachshund. When I’m not at church, you’ll find me spending time with Dwight riding around in his truck usually traveling to historical sites.

Regina Houser

Regina Houser

Minister to Children and Families

I began my work as Minister to Children and Families at FBC Hartselle in January 2023. This was coming back home for me, since I grew up in Hartselle and in FBC; and I fondly remember so many who invested in me here. I still have several family members in Hartselle.

My educational background consists of a bachelor’s degree in education from Auburn University, a master’s degree in education from UAB, and a master’s of divinity degree from Southwestern Seminary. 

I have been involved with children and children’s ministry all of my professional life. I have been a school teacher, a missionary, a camp director, and – most recently – the weekday school director at a church in Birmingham. I am excited for this new opportunity at FBC Hartselle.

My husband Brian and I look forward to resettling in Hartselle. We have one son and daughter-in-law who live in Knoxville, Tennessee. When I’m not at work, you’ll find me reading, watching sports, playing with my great nephews, or enjoying being outside.

Dawn Zanda

Dawn Zanda

Events Coordinator

I have been a member of First Baptist Church since September 2006 and have been on staff since 2011. I have served both as the Children’s Ministry Director and the Events Coordinator. 

I moved to Alabama from Michigan when I was in the fourth grade and later graduated from Decatur High School. I graduated from Arizona State University with a B.S. degree in Criminal Justice and a B.A. in sociology. In addition to my part-time work as Events Coordinator, I am a paraprofessional at Hartselle Intermediate School. 

I have four children: Madeline, who is married to Hunter; Addison, Keegan, and Gavin. If I’m not at school or church, you’ll probably find me at a soccer field! I also enjoy being near the water and going on road trips.  

Jamie Cleveland

Jamie Cleveland

Office Manager

 

I joined the staff at FBC Hartselle in November 2020 as the Membership Secretary. In

January 2022, I assumed the position of Office Manager.  A Hartselle native, I graduated here in 1996.  I then graduated from the University of North Alabama with Bachelor’s degrees in both biology and geology.  Prior to First Baptist, I have been the Office Manager at a real estate office, a stay-at-home mom, and an Environmental Geologist concentrating on underground petroleum spills.

I married my husband Eric in 2003. We have 2 daughters, Anya & Alora.  Our live-in supervisor is a huge black cat (Shadow). I enjoy music, reading, substitute teaching on Fridays, being both a Drama and Band parent, and cheering on both the Hartselle & Auburn Tigers.

Get in Touch

256-773-5500

First Baptist Church Hartselle

210 Woodland Street NW
Hartselle, AL 35640