Jay Thornton has been a member of First Christian Church for 23 years and has served as a lay leader in many roles. He also helps as the worship leader for the contemporary service. Jay became a licensed minister in the Baptist Church while serving as a part-time youth director during college at SFA, where he completed both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees before beginning his career in education. He completed his doctorate at East Texas A&M University in 2007. Over his 28 years in education, he held positions in Lufkin, Hudson, Angelina College, and SFA, and retired in 2022. He enjoys outdoor activities. Jay is married to Natalie, and they have two grown sons.
With 38 years of experience in education and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary and
Special Education, Traci Fuller brings a deep passion for nurturing young minds and
supporting families. With over 20 years specifically dedicated to early childhood, Traci is
a seasoned educator who is committed to creating inclusive, developmentally
appropriate environments that foster the emotional, social, and academic growth of
every child.
Her diverse career includes roles as an early childhood teacher, special education
advocate, program director, and sensory consultant. She has led inclusive classrooms,
mentored educators, and designed engaging, play-based learning environments where
every child feels valued and supported. Her leadership style combines warmth,
structure, and innovation, always with the goal of helping children thrive.
Outside of her professional life, Traci is a proud wife of 36 years, a mother to three
daughters and two sons-in-law, and a loving grandmother to four grandchildren (plus
two cherished grand pets). She and her husband enjoy traveling, exploring new
restaurants, and spending time with their close-knit family.
Our denominational roots ground us firmly in the tradition of being “a movement for wholeness in a fragmented world.” Ours is a Church that brings people together. You will find members and friends from many faith backgrounds and various points of view on the spectrum of beliefs.
First Christian invites you and expects you to explore your faith and come to terms with your own beliefs. We unite every week around the Lord’s table for communion, and in so doing, we recognize that in the mystery of God, our differences come together.