Debra knew from early childhood that she would be active and spend her life working in the church. Originally she planned on working as a church musician, and, in fact, started her college education at Columbia College, SC, as a music major. Gradually she realized that her true calling was to be a minister. After receiving her music degree from Columbia, she attended and graduated from Princeton Theological Seminary. Debra was ordained and became our pastor in the fall of 2008. In the past thirteen years she has become a wife and mother, but is still a pastor who is passionate about loving God, exploring scripture, and equipping the local church in knowing and serving God. She loves teaching, music, mission work, and talking one-on-one with others.
Monia was commissioned as lay pastor and began work within First Presbyterian of Palm Bay’s congregation in July 2005. She completed her Commissioned Lay Pastor training through the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary on-line program. Her call focuses on pastoral care to the homebound and ill within our church family, but she also preaches and fulfills other duties under the direction of the pastor and session. Prior to becoming a CLP, Monia served as an elder and deacon working on many committees, but always with a passion for missions. She is presently active within the Brevard Indian River Presbyterian Mission Committee. Monia has a bachelor’s degree in nursing and master's degree in health services administration.
Patti is a member of the church and director of our music program. She has a Bachelor of Music degree from California State University, Northridge, and Masters studies at the University of Missouri, Kansas City. In addition to directing our choir, she also leads our Sonrise Band where she sings and plays keyboard.
Donna was born and raised in Rhode Island before moving to Palm Bay in 2019. She has worked as a Graphic Designer, Marketing Specialist, Social Media Specialist and Executive Assistant for over 40 years in several corporations and non-profit organizations. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with friends and enjoying the wonderful Florida beaches.
Tom is a member of our church and a retired engineer from L3Harris. Tom began playing the organ as backup in 2005 and became the full time organist in 2008. He is a talented musician and in addition to playing the organ, he also sings and plays multiple instruments for the Sonrise Band.
Sue has been a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Palm Bay for 26 years and has been their bookkeeper for the last 3 years. She has much experience working as a bookkeeper for her husband Brian, when they ran their own realty office. Sue and Brian have three daughters. Sue still would rather cook than go to restaurants. Two of the girls are living in Palm Bay and one is attending Colorado State. The couple loves to cruise, go to the mountains, and spend time with the family.
Jim has been in the Palm Bay area for about 30 years, originally hailing from Massachusetts. He worked at FIT for over 20 years helping with their maintenance, grounds-keeping and irrigation. When Jim is not at work he likes to relax at home with his wife, Ann. Jime and his wife have three grown children spread throughout the East Coast and 10 grandchildren.
created with