OUR LEADERSHIP
The staff team at The River Community Church is a vibrant group full of passion, heart, and a deep commitment to God’s work. United by our mission—Loving God, Loving People, Impacting the World—each member brings unique gifts and stories, using them to spread God’s love and grace in every service, every ministry, and every interaction. We’re serious about furthering God’s Kingdom and advancing the Gospel, but don’t take ourselves too seriously, bringing joy, laughter, and genuine support wherever we go. Driven by a shared purpose, we are dedicated to creating a place where all can experience the transformative power of God’s love.
Lead Pastor
Steve is the husband to the most patient woman in the world and father of six awesome kids. He and his wife Melissa moved to Cookeville in 2001 to start The River and love seeing God change people's lives. When Steve is not pastoring he enjoys hanging out with friends and family, camping, and coaching soccer.
PASTORS & DIRECTORS
Meet our team! Click on each photo to glimpse the heart behind the role.
MINISTRY LEADERS AND SUPPORT STAFF
TRACIE SIMMONS
Hospitality Coordinator
ELDERS
David Burnett, Travis Giffey, TJ Overstreet, Tony Patoto, & Steve Tiebout
Ministry Interns
Rashelle Hurtado - Missions Intern
Mary Grace Dancy - Connections Intern
Ashton Brown - Worship Intern
Sophie Koester - Worship Intern
Sam Luke - Creative Intern
CJ Kilgore - Gathering Intern
Lucas Payne - Gathering Intern
Lydia Tiebout - Gathering Intern
Chris Turner - Gathering Intern
Chris Ricci - Collision Intern
Eziah Easter - Collision Intern
Samuel Correll - Middle School Intern
Leah Tiebout - Pre-School Intern
Reese Giordano - Resident Intern