Meet The Staff

 

 

Dr. Mike Hoppe – Lead Pastor

Mike has served as Lead Pastor at Stillwater Church since 2013, guiding the church in worship, teaching, and community service. He has a passion for the work of mission and helping people find their God-given role to make a difference for Christ. Mike earned degrees from Ohio Northern University (B.A.), Princeton Theological Seminary (M.Div.), and Asbury Theological Seminary (D.Min.). Mike and his wife, Reed, enjoy life with their two wonderful children.

Rev. Tony Barnes – Associate Pastor 

Tony has served as Associate Pastor at Stillwater Church since 2022, serving the church in pastoral care, traditional worship leadership, and teaching. Tony is passionate about pastoral ministry and helping people grow deeper in their connection to Christ. He previously served for over 35 years in leading church music ministries. Tony graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi (B.A. in Music Education) and is currently completing theological studies through Wesley Biblical Seminary and United Theological Seminary. Tony and his wife, Jennifer, are the proud parents of three wonderful children. 

Kim Whisonant – Office Manager

Kim has served as Office Manager at Stillwater Church since 2021. In this role, she maintains attendance and membership data, issues prayer emails and e-newsletters, schedules volunteers, and supports the church’s various ministries. Kim loves supporting our church staff and volunteers to help the church run smoothly, connecting the congregation through prayer needs, and sharing church news to invite and engage our community. Kim earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Auburn University. She was a chemical engineer for ten years before becoming a stay-at-home mom for 19 years. Kim and her husband, Chuck, have been members of Stillwater since 1996. They enjoy traveling, Braves baseball, and spending time with their sons, Justin and Nicholas, along with their dog, Ruby.

Linda Burr – Financial Secretary

Linda oversees our financial and stewardship ministries. She loves to volunteer both inside and outside the walls of the church.

Linden Davis – Early Learning Center Director

Linden has served as the Early Learning Center Director at Stillwater Church since 2024. In this role, she leads, manages, and builds up a group women that teaches and shapes the hearts and minds of little humans. Linden is passionate about children and families. She loves helping them grow in their faith and connection to Christ. She previously served as the preschool director at a school in Mobile for almost a decade. Linden went to the University of Mobile and studied Early Childhood Education. Outside of church, Linden loves to read, go to Disney, and spend as much time outside as possible. She believes sunshine and Jesus can heal anything! Linden and her husband, Timothy, have been married for 12 years  and they have two beautiful red headed children. 

 
 

Donald Finklea – Stillwater Resale Co-Director

Don was selected as the Co-Director of the newly opened Stillwater Resale Store as of January 1, 2026. As a local, he graduated Chickasaw Academy and furthered his education at Alabama Southern Community College. A retired business consultant, his experience with retail and management will help our store grow and serve our Church’s Mission needs. Don has been a member of Stillwater Church for over 20 years and has served on many different boards and committees. As a craftsman, he has directed the renovation and expansion of our church campus. Don and his wife of over 30 years have 5 boys, numerous grandchildren and love to travel.
 
 

Betty Moye – Director of Children’s Ministries

Sewing seeds of faith in young minds and providing opportunities for families to learn and grow together is a passion for Betty.  She served in children’s ministry for over 20 years before taking a break to help provide care for her first grandson.  After ten years and several more beautiful grandchildren, Betty rejoined the staff at Stillwater Church in November of 2023.  She and her husband, Charlie, celebrated their 40th anniversary in 2023 and love spending quality time with their children and grandchildren. Betty also works as a Real Estate Professional and is currently studying for her broker license.  

Travis Grimes – Student Ministry Intern

My name is Travis Grimes and I am a recent graduate from the University of Mobile. I work in accounting full time and love playing music. I play guitar and saxophone, and have used this gift to help lead worship during my time at college career. I love working with and being intentional with students, and I got my passion for youth ministry after a summer working with students at FUGE camps in 2023.

John Rocker – Drummer

Rocker and his wife, Whitney, are residents of Mobile, AL. Rocker frequently plays drums for multiple groups throughout the Southeast region. We are so excited to welcome Rocker to the Stillwater Church Worship Team! 

Rebecca Reed – Traditional Pianist

Rebecca is currently working on her masters degree at the University of Mobile. We are so thankful to have her playing for us on Sunday mornings!

Emily Donaldson – Social Media Coordinator

Emily has served as the Social Media Coordinator at Stillwater Church since 2025. In this role, she is in charge of keeping the Facebook, Instagram and website pages updated for upcoming events at the church. Emily is passionate about spreading the love of Jesus through her posts and the different ministries we have here at Stillwater. Emily is currently a student at the University of South Alabama majoring in Marketing in hopes of making social media management her full time job. Outside the church, Emily enjoys riding horses, watching sports and crocheting. 

Trae Weeks – College and Middle School Leader

Trae is a student at the University of Mobile where he’s studying to become a pastor. He leads the VIBE college ministry, which meets on Thursday nights. Trae also proudly serves our country in the Army.  He’s passionate about Jesus, Star Wars and football!