LEADERSHIP

Pastor

Pastor Darron Killingsworth grew up in a pastor’s home and has been involved in ministry his entire life. He met his wife, Tracie, while attending Bible college, and they were married in 1993. Together, they have served in multiple ministerial roles, with Groesbeck being their third pastorate. From the moment they arrived in Groesbeck, they knew they were at home.

Pastor Darron is a revivalist at heart, with a strong belief that the church stands at the threshold of a mighty move of God. His deep passion for ministry is both a heritage and a divine calling, fueling his steps.

Church Operations & Education Coordinator

Tracie received the Holy Ghost at the age of 20 and after becoming a wife and mother, later earned a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Texas A&M University. She is a veteran elementary teacher with a heart for service and teaching, and currently serves as an elementary school teacher in a local school district.

The Killingsworths have two grown sons. Cason is a professional chef, and Christian serves as a youth pastor in Salina, Kansas, alongside his wife, Michaela. 

The greatest joys of Darron and Tracie’s hearts, however, are their two granddaughters, Elise and Eleanor, who fill their lives with laughter, love, and light.

Assistant Pastor; Youth and Young Adult Ministries Director

Dylan Cooper serves as the Youth Pastor at First United Pentecostal Church of Groesbeck. He is passionate about helping young people grow in their relationship with God, discover their identity in Christ, and walk boldly in their faith. Dylan is blessed with a supportive and loving wife, and together they are raising three wonderful children. His role as both a father and a Youth Pastor has deepened his commitment to building a strong spiritual foundation in the next generation.

At FUPC Groesbeck, the youth ministry is more than just fun and games—though there’s plenty of that too! Dylan is dedicated to creating a space where teens feel safe, seen, and spiritually challenged. He believes God is raising up a bold, Spirit-filled generation, and he is honored to walk alongside them on their journey.

Assistant Pastor; 

Outreach and Evangelism Director; Men’s Fellowship Director

Elbia Simpson serves as the Outreach and Evangelism Director at FUPC Groesbeck. He has faithfully ministered for over 25 years, with a heart for reaching people from all walks of life. His experience includes prison ministry, Home Bible Studies, assisted living outreach, the Sunday school bus ministry, and drug addiction and recovery programs. Elbia is passionate about sharing the hope and life-changing power of the Gospel wherever it’s needed most.

Outreach Ministry Support

Karen Samons has been devoted to serving the Lord since the age of nine. A retired widow and proud mother of two, she has called Groesbeck home for the past 10 years. As Outreach Ministry Support, Karen plays a key role in visitor correspondence, home Bible studies, discipleship, and prayer. She has also served in Sunday School, nursing home ministry, and coordinates special occasions. Lovingly known as one of the “Mothers of the Church,” Karen is a steady source of encouragement and spiritual strength to many. Her heart is to see the lost come and find true salvation, and a relationship with Jesus.