Church Staff

Our Church thrives because of the energy and style of our staff.  Here are a few of the people that make our church community special.
Rev. Thomas Ondra, Associate Pastor
Pastor Tom, as he's known around here, grew old by pastoring several congregations by himself in upstate New York.

Now that he's found First Church and a great ministry team, he reports feeling younger by the day! Give him a call.  He'll come over and visit you. 
Gail Rankin, Bookkeeper
Gail is originally from Punxsutawney, PA.  Yep, Groundhog Day, the movie, was based on her hometown's February 2nd tradition.  She and her husband, Jim, have lived in Arizona since 1996. They moved to Sun City in July, 2018, and joined First UMC in February, 2019.  Gail holds a B.A. in Accounting and a Masters in Administration, and has spent most of her career managing senior living communities. She and Jim have 2 sons and 3 grandsons.
Pam Marsh, Administrative Assistant
Pam moved from Montana to Surprise, Arizona with her mother in June 2018.  She grew up in Colorado and lived in Wyoming before moving to Montana.  Although she is glad to not be shoveling snow for months on end, she does miss the occasional snow fall.

Pam worked for many years in the high tech world in Denver but also brings experience working in church offices in Montana and Sun City West before recently joining us.  She is enjoying getting to know the many volunteers that keep everything running and says that this is definitely “the happiest church on 105th Avenue!
Terry Smith, ​Director of Music
Originally from east Tennessee, Terry holds a Bachelor's degree in Music Education and Theatre Arts with additional graduate study in music education. 

​For more than 30 years, Terry has served on the music staff in churches in Tennessee, Texas, and Arizona. He also accompanies two area community choruses and teaches piano privately in the Valley and online.
Cathy Murray, ​Organist and Handbell Director
Cathy is originally from Gowanda, New York.  Her Music Degree from Ithaca College has provided her the ability to play in many churches and teach private lessons.
Robert Schmidt, ​Building and Grounds Maintenance
Robert Schmidt (Bob, as he likes to be called) takes care of our property inside and out. He brings youth and energy, and we’re giving him plenty of experience in electrical, mechanical and landscaping!

Bob works closely with the Trustees, who are happy to hold the ladder while he screws in the light bulb. Bob is a pretty capable photographer and does a great deal of work on his car.