our staff

  • Dave Hawes

    Pastor

    Dave became the pastor of First Baptist Church of Bryson City in March 2025 and is grateful every day that the mountains are now in his backyard. With more than 20 years in ministry, he brings a pastor’s heart, a storyteller’s spirit, and a steady hand to both the pulpit and the community.

    A Christian by faith and a Baptist by conviction and believes deeply in a church that reflects both the freedom and responsibility of following Jesus. His calling has taken many forms over the years—from youth ministry to disaster response, Deaf ministry to pulpit ministry, and chaplaincy with EMS teams. Before coming to Bryson City, he served as pastor of Godwin Heights Baptist Church in Lumberton for 11 years, where he also served as a licensed EMT and chaplain, caring for caregivers and walking alongside first responders.

    Dave earned his BA in Religious Studies and an AA in American Sign Language Studies from Gardner-Webb University—where he also met his wife, Vanessa. The day after graduation, they were married and began a life filled with ministry, adventure, and shared callings. He later completed his M.Div. in Pastoral Studies, also from Gardner-Webb, and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry degree at Campbell University Divinity School, exploring how congregations shaped by disaster can minister to those facing poverty and housing insecurity.

    In his spare time, you might find Dave on a local trail or working on a stretch of the Appalachian Trail—he's logged about 300 miles so far. Raised in Richmond, Virginia, he developed a love for history early on, soaking up stories on field trips and family vacations. He’s a big fan of a well-told tale, whether it’s in a book, a movie, on stage, or in Scripture. Some of his favorites include Les Misérables, Hamilton, Star Wars, Star Trek, and any Disney adventure shared with Vanessa.

    What drives Dave’s ministry is a simple but powerful vision: to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. He believes the church is called to show up—in the community, in the hard places, and in the quiet spaces where mercy is needed most. More than anything, he wants to be the presence of Christ wherever he finds himself—and to help others do the same. Two scriptures he often returns to are Micah 6:8 and Philippians 2:1–11.

  • michael and daniel cochran

    CUSTODIANS

    Michael and Daniel are graduates of Haywood Community College with degrees in horticulture. In addition to maintaining our facilities, Michael and Daniel serve on our media team and operate a local greenhouse and nursery. 



  • lori gilbert

    PIANIST

    Lori is a gifted musician and serves as pianist at First Baptist Church. Lori is a graduate of Western Carolina University and teaches fifth grade in Jackson County.

  • Elizabeth Shuler

    Office Ministry Assistant

    I am passionate about serving others and sharing hope through my faith and ministry. My heart is centered on loving people where they are, encouraging them through life’s challenges, and pointing them toward healing, purpose, and truth. Through serving, I strive to create a welcoming, Christ-centered space rooted in compassion, authenticity, and service, where individuals and families can grow spiritually and feel supported.

    I believe ministry is not just about words, but about living out faith through action, connection, and love. I am continually guided by God’s promise: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine” (Isaiah 43:1). This truth shapes both my personal walk and my calling to help others know they are seen, loved, and redeemed by God. I attend Whittier Church of God and place a strong emphasis on maintaining a consistent and meaningful prayer life.

    I am married to my amazing husband, Chris Shuler, and together we are raising two boys and one girl. As a family, we enjoy motorcycle riding, fishing, camping, and spending meaningful time together.