Our Team
The Rev. Jonathan Tuttle
The Rev. Jonathan “Johnny” Tuttle attended Milligan College and graduated in 2010 with a degree in Humanities and Worship Leadership. Johnny grew up in the Restoration Movement (Christian Churches/Church of Christ), but after studying church history and theology in college, he was drawn to a church rooted in the tradition and liturgy of the historic church. The beauty of the Episcopal Church’s liturgy, specifically in the words of the Book of Common Prayer, provided a language and greater depth to his faith that was rooted in the Scripture and Tradition of Church.
He attended Divinity School at Duke University and graduated in 2015 with a Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree and a certificate in Anglican Studies. He was ordained to the priesthood in 2016. Johnny was rector at St. John and St. Mark Episcopal Church in Albany, Georgia, before coming to St. Paul’s in June 2019.
Johnny and his wife, Nicki have two children, Eli and Isla.
Rector
The Rev. Gordon L. Brewer
The Rev. L. Gordon Brewer has been a deacon in the Diocese of East Tennessee since 2009. Gordon began his journey in the Episcopal Church right here at St. Paul’s when he moved to Kingsport in 1991. He has one daughter, Rebecca, who lives in Chattanooga and is a kindergarten teacher along with being the youth director at St. Francis Episcopal Church.
Gordon’s ministry and work in the world is as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Gordon received his Bachelor's degree (BA) in Psychology from Mars Hill University and holds a Master’s degree (MEd) in Counseling with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy from East Tennessee State University. He is in private practice and the owner of Kingsport Counseling Associates. Gordon also hosts two podcasts, the Practice of Therapy Podcast and the Kindness and Compassion Podcast.
Gordon previously served as deacon at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church (formerly St. Christophers) and is active in the Diocese of East Tennessee currently serving on the Commission on Ministry. He was assigned as deacon to St. Paul’s in 2024.
Gordon grew up in Cary, NC and was the son of a Baptist Pastor. Like many that come to the Episcopal Church, Gordon was drawn to the rich history, liturgical tradition, and a theology rooted in emphasis on the balance of reason and scripture. Also the Episcopal Church’s openness to diversity and welcoming of ALL people regardless of their background or orientation.
Deacon
Organist / Choir Director
Greg Lacey
Greg began his association with St. Paul’s in October 2007, when he was hired as organist. His duties were expanded to include directing the parish choir in 2011. Prior to joining the staff at St. Paul’s, Greg had served Episcopal and United Methodist churches in the Tri-Cities area.
You may contact Mr. Lacey via email at moller3x@gmail.com.
St. Paul’s Day School & Kindergarten
Director
Melanie Beach
Melanie Beach is the Day School Director. She is a licensed teacher with her Master’s degree from LMU. She has more than 15 years of experience in early childhood education, 4 of which were as a Preschool Director in Colonial Heights. She previously worked at Roosevelt Elementary School for three school years as an instructional assistant.
Parish Administrator and Communications
Becky McKenzie
Becky McKenzie is a graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. After many years in administration in insurance and real estate, she found her most enjoyable job as Parish Administrator for St. John’s Episcopal Church in Tampa, FL. Family brought her back to the Tennessee area and to the wonderful parish of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Kingsport.