Jessica grew up in Cleveland and is a lifelong member of our church. She and her husband, Manny, have one child. 

Joan (Triplett) Smith was born at Bradley Hospital in Cleveland, TN. She grew up in Cleveland and graduated from Bradley High School in 1975. After high school, Joan entered Cleveland State Community College and graduated in 1977 with an Associate Degree in Music and a Minor in Art.

In the 1980’s, Joan was a disc jockey and program director at WKJS Christian Radio. When she was 25 years old, she began to sing professionally. Her singing career took her throughout the Southeast during the 1980’s. She had a recording contract with a California company and sang with Higher Power Band. She has also done background vocals for projects, commercials and jingles since 1985. Other groups she sang with were Pathway Singers and the Dexter Thomas Band.

Joan became the First Presbyterian Church choir director in August 2016. She directs the Chancel Choir, children’s choir and bells, coordinates music and vocals for Sunday and sings solos in church.

During her free time, Joan enjoys drawing, painting, calligraphy, singing and playing with her grandsons, Tobi and Malachi. She and her husband, Manuel, met at church and married in 1994. They have an extended family of 4 children and 9 grandchildren.

When asked to share something with her church family Joan said, “This is a wonderful church where the love of God flows freely. I love this church and (am) so blessed to be a part of such a loving, giving, nurturing fellowship.”

Karen lives in Cleveland with her husband. She has three children and is Blessed with grandchildren.