Ministry Staff
Dr. Ron Wilcoxson
Pastor
Dr. Ron holds the following degrees: B.S. in Business Administration/Marketing from Southeast Missouri State University; Master of Dvinity from Candler School of Theology, Emory University; and, a Doctor of Ministry from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He also did post graduate work at Luther Rice Seminary and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He grew up in a Christian home but didn't come to a personal relationship with Christ until he was 20 years old. It was a combined effort of many people praying for and witnessing to him, and the convicting work of the Holy Spirit. "I actually received Christ into my heart when i was driving my car; I pulled over to the side of the street and surrendered myself to Him and my life dramatically changed."
Jim Burkhardt
Minister of Education and Administration
Jim grew up in Knoxville, TN where he enjoyed hiking in the mountains. He has degrees from Carson Newman College (Jefferson City, TN) and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (Fort Worth, TX). Jim served churches in Tennessee, Michigan, and Illinois before joining our staff in March 1990. To contact Jim by email: jim@easthillbaptistchurch.org
Sidney Kennedy
Minister of Music
Sidney is retired from Pensacola Junior College. He returned to us as Music Minister in August, 1982.
James Atkins
Worship Leader
James Adkins is a professional guitarist and teacher who is currently seeking a Bachelor's Degree in Jazz Studies from the University of West Florida. James has many interests to include sports and photography, but has been given a passion for music. James came to know the Lord in a small Church of the Nazarene in Havelock, North Carolina. He is the worship leader for the Contemporary Service at 9:45 a.m.
Billy Helms
Student Director
Billy is our Student Director. Billy comes to us with a business background in retail sales. He is a graduate of the University of West Florida and an avid Florida football fan. He leads our Children's Church on Sunday mornings, Student Small Groups on Sunday night, and Student Worship on Wednesday night.