Ordinary People Serving an Extraordinary God
Throughout the Bible, God has always chosen ordinary people—shepherds, fishermen, tax collectors, people with doubts, flaws, and pasts—to accomplish extraordinary things—because the power was never in them. It was in Him.
When ordinary people place their lives in the hands of an extraordinary God, what He can do through them is anything but ordinary.
"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others... so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ." - 1 Peter 4:10-11
Pastor - Todd Leach
Pastor Todd Leach has faithfully served as the pastor of Longview General Baptist Church for nearly ten years. Alongside his wife, Tina, he is passionate about sharing the love of Christ and helping people find their way home to God. His vision for Longview is simple: to see lost souls saved and lives transformed through the power of Jesus Christ. He strives to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels loved, accepted, and valued. He believes the church should be a place where people can come as they are, without fear of judgment or condemnation, and experience the grace and hope found in Christ.
Raised in McHenry, Kentucky, by his grandparents. His grandfather served as pastor of the local Church of God of Prophecy, and attending church every Sunday was a regular part of his upbringing. Looking back, Pastor Todd is grateful for the strong spiritual foundation that was established in his early years. After high school, he joined the military and spent a season of his life running from God's calling. Although he knew the Lord was drawing him, he struggled to surrender fully to that call. Through God's faithfulness and grace, however, he eventually answered the Lord's calling on his life.
In 1995, Todd met the love of his life, Tina, and they were married in 1997. Together, they became active in church ministry and served as youth leaders, investing in the lives of countless young people. During this time, Pastor Todd felt God's call to preach. He has faithfully shared the Gospel for many years and now considers it a tremendous blessing to serve as pastor of Longview General Baptist Church.
Family is one of Pastor Todd's greatest joys. He and Tina are blessed with a loving family that includes their children and sons-in-law. Their home is also filled with plenty of four-legged family members, including 8 dogs and 5 cats.
When he is not serving the church, Pastor Todd enjoys spending time with his family, working on projects around the house, fishing, traveling, trying any type of food, and trying new experiences.
Pastor Todd and the Longview General Baptist Church family invite you to join them for worship and fellowship. Whether you are searching for a church home, seeking answers, or simply looking for a place to belong, you are welcome here. Come as you are and experience the love of Christ with us.
Youth Pastor - Anthony "Bruce" Hayse
A story of deep loss and unwavering faith. Before his birth, Bruce's father tragically died in a car accident, leaving him to grow up without knowing him. His childhood was filled with quiet moments at his father’s gravesite, shaping his views on life, family, and presence. These experiences instilled in him compassion for others, especially youth needing guidance and love.
At 15, Bruce felt called to ministry, but like many, his journey had detours. He worked in trucking, retail, and even as a professional wrestler. Yet, God continually drew him back. Eventually, Bruce fully surrendered to his calling, leaving his former pursuits to follow Christ wholeheartedly. As he says, “you can’t serve two masters.”
Today, Bruce is a dedicated Youth Pastor, a role he has embraced for three years. He invests in the next generation, guiding students in faith and purpose. He has spoken at the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) at Ohio County High School and helped young people through transformative experiences like the Chrysalis Walk. Bruce believes in active faith, often saying, “When waiting upon the Lord, do as waiters do—serve.”
Family is central to Bruce’s life and ministry. He is married to Junea, and they have two daughters, Katelyn and Taya, along with a cherished grandson. He shares a special bond with Ian, whom he considers a son, reflecting his belief that family extends beyond bloodlines. Bruce is proud of his connection to the Crabb Family and credits his mother, his Sunday school teacher and youth leader, for fostering his love of music, faith, and service.
At Bruce’s core is a powerful priority: Jesus first, then family, friends, and others—putting himself last. With a servant’s heart and love for people, Bruce pours into young lives, trusting God for what’s ahead and serving wherever called.
Children's Ministry - Andee Marcum
Serving as the Children's Ministry Director at Longview General Baptist Church, Andee is passionate about helping children grow in their faith and discover the love of Jesus Christ. She is committed to creating a fun, safe, and welcoming environment where children can build meaningful friendships, learn God's Word, and develop a strong spiritual foundation.
Andee has been married to her husband, Frank, for 21 years. Together, they are blessed with a large blended family and are currently raising their youngest children, Amelia, Arlin-Charlee, and Avery. Drawing from her experiences as a wife, mother, and lifelong follower of Christ, Andee brings creativity, compassion, and enthusiasm to every aspect of children's ministry.
Whether leading Bible lessons, organizing special events, teaching worship, or encouraging children to become "Fishers of Men," Andee's desire is to make faith engaging, meaningful, and memorable. She believes that children are not only the future of the church but an important part of the church today.
Through partnership with parents and volunteers, Andee strives to help children build a lasting relationship with Jesus and a faith that will guide them throughout their lives.
"Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." — Matthew 4:19
NA Addiction Leaders - Thomas & Tasha Shoemaker
Thomas and Tasha's story is a powerful testimony of God's grace, redemption, and the life-changing power of recovery. For many years, both struggled with addiction and the challenges that came with it. When he was sentenced to three years in prison, she found herself at rock bottom. It was during that difficult season that she made the courageous decision to enter rehabilitation and begin her journey toward recovery and healing.
Today, she celebrates four years of sobriety, and he celebrates two years. Together, they are living proof that recovery is possible and that hope can be found even in life's darkest moments. Looking back, Tasha often shares that she never imagined she would overcome her addiction, but through faith, determination, and the support of others, she found the strength to persevere and reclaim her life.
Originally from Waverly, Ohio, they relocated to Beaver Dam, Kentucky, seeking a fresh start centered on faith, family, recovery, and service. Married on June 12, 2012, they have walked through some of life's most difficult trials together and emerged stronger through God's grace, perseverance, and their commitment to one another. Their journey has taught them that even the hardest circumstances can lead to healing, restoration, and new beginnings.
Passionate about giving back to others who are facing similar struggles, they now lead their own Narcotics Anonymous meeting at Longview General Baptist Church. This church has become an essential part of their recovery journey, providing encouragement, fellowship, accountability, and a strong foundation of faith. Both credit the church family with helping them remain focused on their recovery while continuing to grow spiritually.
Today, faith is at the center of their lives. Together, they are committed to serving others and building a life founded on faith, honesty, hope, and compassion. Through their testimony, they encourage others to believe that recovery is possible, second chances are real, and no one is ever too far gone for God to transform their life. Their story stands as a reminder that with faith, support, and perseverance, a new beginning is always possible.
Meet our Deacons
Our Deacons are here to serve, support, and care for our church family and community. Whether you have questions, need prayer, or would like assistance, please feel free to reach out to any of our Deacons below.
