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!
William Garver
Lead Pastor
Pastor Bill has a passion for seeing people grow and reach their potential in Praise and service to others. We are a church that touches across generations to reach all families. Waynedale is just a perfect place to grow and invest in the people and community. He is married to Cindy, a Deacon in the United Methodist Church. Come and see us! Blessings!
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.
Peggy Stookey
Finance Manager
Jody has been managing Waynedale UMC’s finances with integrity since 2022. She has been a UMC member for over 40 years and enjoys spending time with family and friends.
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.
Susie Dickey
Office Manager
Susie does an excellent job managing everything at our church office. She felt called to work in the church and was ecstatic to be hired here at Waynedale UMC. She lives with her husband, Scott, and their dog, Hank, in the Georgetown area.
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.
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.
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!