Our Leadership Team
Have a question for the staff, or just want to introduce yourself? Feel free to reach out, we’d love to talk with you!
Mary Hyer
Lead Pastor
Mary has a huge passion for being in relationships with those both inside and outside the church and is excited to be serving in the Waynedale community. She is married to her husband Dan, who is also a local UMC pastor.
Krissy Covey
Children’s Director
Krissy oversees all activities involving children throughout the year, as well as teaching the 3-year-old class at our preschool. When she is not in the office, Krissy loves to cook, take walks, ride her bike, or just hang out with her husband, 2 kiddos, and her dog and cat.
Laurie Sorg
Preschool Director & Teacher
Laurie has been serving at Waynedale UMC Preschool since 1998. She has previous experience working in Fort Wayne Community Schools’ special needs programs for 9 years. She studied 2 years at the University of Saint Francis and 2 years at IPFW.
Kayla Lambert
Nursery Caregiver
Kayla provides positive and loving care to young children in a safe environment during worship services. She is a mother and teacher who loves spending time with her family and pets. Together, they love to go on walks, bike rides, and watch family movies. Kayla also enjoys reading, scrapbooking, and crocheting.
Jody Winterrowd
Finance Manager
Jody has been managing Waynedale UMC’s finances with integrity since 2015. She is happily married to Thom Winterrowd. Together they have 4 sons and 2 daughters and are blessed with 8 grandchildren.
Mary Larsen
Office Manager
Mary does an excellent job managing everything at our church office. She has a Master’s degree in English Literature from IPFW. In her spare time, she loves writing, taking walks, and spending time with her family.
Jeanette Walsh
Director of Christian Arts
Jeanette Walsh has been leading worship at Waynedale UMC for many years. She is a retired music teacher, having taught choral music at the high school and middle school- level all of her life. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and a Master’s in Education. She is the organist, director of the Chancel Choir, and director of the handbell choir.
Jim Courtney
Director of Praise Band
Jim graciously joined the staff in 2011 as the director of the praise band. He has a passion and love for music that he enjoys sharing with parishioners every weekend. He feels very blessed to be given this gift and the opportunity to share it.
Diane Medert
Musician/ Accompanist
Diane plays for the Chancel Choir at our 8:45 services, special services, and events. In her spare time, Diane enjoys ushering at the Embassy Theatre, spending time with her family, taking bus trips, and attending concerts.
Kenneth Lyon
Maintenance
Ken is in charge of all things maintenance at Waynedale UMC. In his spare time, he enjoys riding his motorcycle and spending time with family.
Tyler Szelis
Maintenance Assistant
Tyler is a proud father of three kids; Luke, 11; Grace, 7; and Jaxson, 3. He also works full time as a surgical coordinator at the Eye Center of Fort Wayne. In his spare time, he enjoys watching sports. Tyler’s favorite team is Purdue. Boiler up!