Hicks United Methodist Church Staff

Rich Morris

Rich has been at Hicks since 2001. He is married to Jennifer (Hancock) Morris and they are the proud parents of two sons, Seth and Michael. Rich originally hails from Williamsport, PA, which he is quick to point out, is the home of Little League baseball; and where Rich played at the Original Little League (though many years after its founding). He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown and Asbury Theological Seminary, Lexington, Kentucky. He served a three-church parish in Huntingdon County prior to coming to Duncansville. Rich likes to coach baseball, hunt, and read in his spare time. He believes that someday the Pittsburgh Pirates will be good again.

Elaine Mallory

Elaine is a life-long resident of Blair County. She substituted as organist at various churches in the area before becoming the organist at Hicks Memorial in 1984. Elaine has a passion for serving the Lord through music ministry. J. S. Bach once said, "I play the notes as they are written, but it is God who makes the music." Elaine has found this quote to be true in her life time and time again, and she gives glory to God for the Holy Spirit who inspires her creativity at the organ. Elaine is honored to be playing the Rodgers organ which was purchased in late 2000. Elaine enjoys using the numerous sounds in this wonderful instrument to enhance the worship services at the church.

Elaine works at D. P. Oppel Associates in Duncansville. She likes spending time with her four great-nephews, Matthew, Noah, Kaleb, and Simon who are the lights of her life.

Jason Garman

Jason is the Director of Youth Ministries for Hick UMC, serving students from grades 6-12. Jason has been a member at Hicks for his entire life and was recently hired as the new Youth Director in May of 2011. Jason lives in Altoona, Pennsylvania with his mother, Amy, and his brother, Tyler. He is currently attending Lock Haven University, where he is pursuing a Bachelors Degree in Social Work. Over the summer Jason also works as an EMT, at Delgrosso's Amusement Park. Jason believes that young adults can make an impact in today's society and he wants to make sure they know God's love as they leave their imprint on the world. Jason enjoys to hunting, volunteer in the community, and play volleyball. He also believes that this is the year when the Stanley Cup comes back to Pittsburgh.

Kristen Lytle

Deb Simpson

Deb Simpson serves as the Children's Ministry Coordinator for Hicks UMC which includes, Young Believers a children's group for Pre-K to 6th grade, Vacation Bible School, and various seasonal children's events. Deb is also a teacher for the Children's Church, member of the Vision committee, the Bell choir, the Welcome class, the Hospitality group and serves on the Education committee for Administrative council. She lives in Duncansville with her husband Brent and 3 children Audrey, Andrew, and Lauren. She is a dental hygienist for offices in Hollidaysburg, Huntingdon and State College. Deb enjoys being with her family, volunteering at her children's school, gardening, boating, and following Pittsburgh sports teams.

Judy Shaffer

Judy has been our church secretary for 23 years. She is married to Richard Shaffer and they have two grown children, Jill Brantner and Jennifer Baiocco, and three grandchildren, Aaron, Elijah, and Sevilla. Judy's favorite things include reading, knitting, shopping, spending time with her grandchildren, and going to the beach.

Joann Lovett

My name is Joann Lovett and I have eleven beautiful grandchildren. I have worked in credit unions for 28 years serving credit union members. Now that I am retired I would like to continue serving people by being a volunteer at the Hollidaysburg YMCA. Currently at Hicks church I am involved in the Welcome Sunday School Class, serve as an usher, a member of the UMW and financial secretary/treasurer of Hicks UM Church.

Cathy Baird

My name is Cathy Baird and I am the church Sexton. My husband and I clean the church. Bob and I were married at Hick's in 1979. We live in Hollidaysburg with our two Boxers. I have waitressed at the Dream Restaurant for the past 17 years. Bob is the Quotations Manager for Lumax Industry in Altoona. Our son, Lucas, will be graduating from the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia in May, and has been accepted into the PA College of Optometry for the fall 2008 school year. We like spending time with our families, and I enjoy quilting.

Donna Fruth

Donna has served in many ways at Hicks - choir member, Sunday School teacher, UMW president, home fellowship leader and is excited about her new role in the area of assimilation. She is married with two daughters and two granddaughters.