First Baptist Church Perry, OK

I trusted Jesus when I was 19 years old, and I haven't gotten over it! (never will) I have been in full-time Christian Ministry since 1989 and I love being the pastor here at First Baptist Church Perry! We came to Perry in 2015 from a 20 year pastorate in Northeast Oklahoma. Coming here to Perry was like coming home, as my wife and I were both born and raised in Stillwater. Our folks here are great encouragers and have been such a blessing to our family. Janet and I have been blessed to be married for 44 years, having 3 children and 5 grandchildren. We spend our time serving the Lord in His church, visiting children and grandchildren, and enjoying our date nights together. We travel to see our grandchildren (and children) as much as possible. I love playing golf, talking (imagine that) and being with family. Our life verse is proverbs 3:5-6, 'Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path.' Have you trusted Him?    

Erik Edgar serves as the Youth and Kids Pastor at FBC Perry, where he’s been pouring into the next generation since 2023. With a deep love for young people and a passion for sharing the hope of Jesus, Erik leads a vibrant ministry for kids and teens, fostering faith through engaging Bible studies, fun activities, and mentorship. Erik holds an Associates degree from Northern Oklahoma College and has over four years of experience, starting as a volunteer Sunday school teacher and director before stepping into ministry. Married to Tarah since 2005, they have two energetic kids, Emory and Maely, who keep Erik grounded and inspired. In their free time, Erik enjoys family, fishing, hunting, and cheering on the local high school teams. Erik’s heart is to see kids and teens grow into confident disciples who live out their faith boldly.

Teresa Bowman is a devoted wife, mother, and creative soul who thrives in the peaceful setting of her farm. Passionate about her faith, she finds joy in studying the word of God and leading worship. Teresa also enjoys expressing her artistic talents and nurturing her animals. She has been happily married to Joe Bowman for 19 years and treasures her role as a mother to Jarrett, 17, and Jorja, 14.

Illa has been at First Baptist Church for almost 17 years serving as Secretary, in addition Illa and her husband Glen joined the church on the first Sunay after their honeymoon 51 years ago.  Illa attended Northern Oklahoma University and graduated with a degree in accounting.  Illa was seeking a different job and God lead her to apply at FBC.  It has been a privilege to be Secretary here ever since.  Illa has one Son, Brian who is married to Susan and they have two sons, Nathan and Caleb who live in Allen, TX.  Illa is also the Senior Adult Ministries leader, where she plans an event once a month which consists of luncheons with speakers, games, or bingo.  Also, often there is a trip out of town to different destinations.

JB and his wife Sheryl come to FBC 20 years ago and JB joined the church by baptism 2 years later.  They enjoyed serving and attending ever since.  JB and Sheryl have served as caretakers since 2005, opening and closing for all services.  They have prepared breakfast for 13 years for all church attenders who care to come a little early.  JB has participated in the Worship Band for many years playing guitar and singing.  The job of custodian opened up and JB was hired for that job.  JB and Sheryl have 5 Children and 5 Grandchildren.