Pastor Phillip Ray Gibson is a Certified Lay Minister in the United Methodist Church, serving in the Western North Carolina Conference, Blue Ridge District. A native of Kentucky, Phillip began his life in Western North Carolina in 1997 and has made this region his home and mission field ever since. He holds a Master of Science from Southern Illinois University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Louisville.
Phillip’s ministry is shaped by more than 30 years of service in protecting public and environmental health, including his work through the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services as the NC Radon Program Coordinator. His vocation reflects a deep commitment to caring for communities and safeguarding the well-being of families across the state. He is also a Kentucky Colonel, a proud member of the Sons of the American Revolution, and an active volunteer with the Mountain View Kairos Prison Ministry, sharing Christ’s hope with men who are incarcerated.
Phillip lives in Franklin, NC, with his wife, Reverend Julia Gibson, who pastors Snow Hill UMC and Memorial UMC in Franklin. Together, they are blessed with two adult sons, a wonderful daughter-in-love, and a cherished granddaughter.
Phillip brings to Alexander Chapel United Methodist Church a warm spirit, a deep love for Christ, and a steadfast commitment to serving others wherever God calls him. He is grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside this historic congregation as together we follow Christ, love our neighbors, and grow in faith and service.
Phillip Hawkins, Lay Leader
Gene Stockton, Chair of Trustees
Elizabeth Hawkins, Treasurer
Gina Elrod, Chair of Pastor Parish Relations
Judy Buchanan, Lay Member
Pam Williams, Chair of the Finance Committee