Where do you live?

I currently live in Salem, Ohio, after moving to Youngstown, Ohio, in 1971 as a teenager. Before that, I had lived in the Bronx in New York City for 17 years of my life.

What would you like to tell us about your education?

I attended Youngstown East High School and later attended Massillon Baptist College and Youngstown State. I was ordained into the ministry by Harvest Prep International from Sarasota, Florida. I served for 15 years as a youth pastor at Victory Christian Center in Lowellville, Ohio, and after that became the senior pastor of Crossroad Ministries in Salem, Ohio, for 22 years.

When did you become a chaplain at Aultman Health System?

I became a hospice chaplain in 2017.

At what facility do you work? What is your role?

I am a chaplain for Aultman Hospice in Alliance.

How did you decide to become a chaplain?

After almost 40 years of pastoring churches – serving at my most recent church for 22 years – I felt that it was time for a change. Being a hospital chaplain had always intrigued me.

What do you like best about your career?

I had initially desired to be a hospital chaplain but was offered instead the position of hospice chaplain. Being a hospice chaplain has become my passion and source of joy, serving families of terminal patients and connecting with those who are at the end of life. It's not a job but instead is a privileged ministry.

What are some of your hobbies/interests?

My hobbies include every sport. I also play guitar, write music and enjoy performing and leading worship.

Tell us about your loved ones.

I have been married for almost 30 years to my wife Elizabeth and have four children and four grandchildren. My youngest daughter is a traveling nurse.

Tell us something interesting about yourself that many of your friends may not know.

Most people don't know that I played semipro football in Los Angeles. I also traveled widely – 40 U.S. states plus Canada – with professional contemporary Christian artists such as Barry McGuire, Phil Keaggy and 2nd Chapter of Acts. Plus, I recorded my own album and toured.