LEADERSHIP TEAM

Keven Newsome joined Mt Olive in October 2024, bringing over 20 years of ministry experience. He holds a Master’s in Theology with a focus on Christian Apologetics from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, and is completing his Doctorate in Ministry in 21st Century Ministry at Anderson University. He is passionate about helping others grow into the person God created them to be by helping them discover their calling. His expertise includes digital ministry and leadership development.

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Originally from South Mississippi, Keven and his wife, DeAnna, have been married for 25 years and have two children. Their family thrives in the creative arts—music, storytelling, and dance. Outside of ministry, Keven enjoys reading, writing, and immersing himself in great stories.

Verlin Reece has been faithfully serving at Mt. Olive since 1983 and stepped into the role of Associate Pastor in 1984. With a passion for ministering with purpose, he seeks to meet people where they are, show them the love of Christ, and walk alongside them in their faith journey. He has extensive ministry experience, including pastoring Berea Church for eight years, teaching adult classes, leading senior adults, and mentoring deacons in ministering to families.
 

Originally from Gainesville, GA, Verlin is one of eight siblings and has been married to Lavonda since 1975. They have two children, Jennifer and Ryan, and one grandson. Outside of ministry, he enjoys golf, sports, and a good action thriller movie.

Sarah Royal has been with Mt Olive since 2022. She is passionate about equipping and resourcing volunteers to help families, kids, and students grow in their faith. She holds a B.A. in Music with a concentration in Church Music and has served in a variety of ministry roles, including Kids Director, Worship Leader, and Youth Director.
 

Originally from Augusta, GA, Sarah is married to Michael. She brings a heart for ministry and a desire to see the next generation thrive in their walk with Christ.

Drew Kelly has been leading worship at Mt. Olive since 2017, bringing over 12 years of experience in church music. His passion is to help others draw closer to God through worship, creating an atmosphere where people can experience His presence in a meaningful way.
 

Originally from Lawrenceville, GA, Drew later moved to Gainesville, where he met his wife, Katie. The two began attending Mt. Olive together and were married a year later. Outside of ministry, Drew enjoys movies, playing guitar, listening to music, and reading a good book. 

Sandie Long has served as Mt. Olive’s Office Manager and Secretary for over 13 years, bringing a heart for service and organization to the church. Before joining the team, she spent 20 years in the mortgage industry.
 

Originally from Louisiana, Sandie moved to Georgia 38 years ago. She and her husband, Robert, have been married for 25 years and have one son, Jake. She was baptized in July 2023 and is passionate about prayer. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, baking, crafting, and reading.

A lifelong member of Mt Olive, Kim Aaron has served in many areas of ministry, including stewardship, hospitality, special events, and nursery care. She now serves as the church’s Financial Secretary while also working as a master cosmetologist.
 

Raised in Commerce, Kim has two grown children and seven grandchildren. Family is at the heart of her life—every week, 16 of her family members gather for dinner. She also enjoys working with Street Love Ministries and catering events. Kim believes in showing God’s love by meeting both physical and spiritual needs. 

Ray Jones has been a dedicated part of Mt. Olive for 45 years, ensuring that the church’s facilities and grounds are well cared for. His commitment to maintaining a welcoming and functional space reflects his deep connection to the church community.
 

A lifelong resident of Commerce, Ray is a proud father to a daughter and twin sons and enjoys spending time with his five grandchildren. When he's not hard at work, he values quality time with his family.