I
was born in Ashland on May 3, 1976. Attended church my whole life and have been a member of three different churches throughout my lifetime. Attended Ashland High School where I played football, track, played the trombone and tuba in the marching band and participated in the Future Farmers of America. Graduated in 1995 and then went on to attend Heidelberg College my freshman year before transferring to Ashland University where I graduated with my degree in Education in 1999. I also have a Master's Degree in Education from the University of Phoenix. I finally completed my Master of Divinity Degree with a focus in Christian Apologetics from Liberty University in 2019.
I have been married to my high school sweetheart Katie for 27 years. Katie has worked most of her life as a registered nurse. She worked for the American Red Cross, Kingston Nursing Home, Hospice of North Central Ohio, and The Good Shepherd Nursing Home. Most recently she served two years at Ashland High School as the Individual Learning Lab Supervisor. Katie has also served in church as Sunday School teacher for 3-year-old to 3rd grade. She also plays the piano and has helped lead Bible studies as well. She has played the crucial role in my ability to work in ministry. Her support, love and constant encouragement has allowed me to take this next step in our ministry work together.
Our son, Jack Smeltzer, is 20 years old and works for the Tractor Supply Company here in Ashland. Jack has worked as a business owner several years by owning his own lawn mowing business. He also played baseball for the Nankin Youth League several years. Jack has also supported me so many ways in his life by giving me words of wisdom when needed and sharing with me his insights into his faith and the struggles he works through just as all of us do.
I have been a teacher at Ashland High School for the past 15 years serving as the Career Based Intervention Coordinator. I assist students with careers and help them to earn the credentials and training needed to earn a high school diploma. I began my work in ministry in 2017 and before coming to Nankin served as Associate Pastor at Heritage Baptist Church here in Ashland. The firm foundation I received while serving at Heritage equipped me with experience and challenged me as I prepared for the next chapter God had in store for me and my family.
As my wife and I begin this new chapter of our lives we would like to thank everyone who has worked with us over the years and for the love and support we have been given. My father (Lee Smeltzer) who passed away in October of 2022 as well as my mother (Charlotte Smeltzer) have also helped as we have adjusted to this life in ministry work together. We greatly look forward to working with the people at Nankin Community Church and are very excited to see what the Lord has in store for the congregation.
Carrie joined us in September, 2012 as our woman-of-all-trades. She earned her degree in Instrumental Music Education from Ashland University, and works at Wal-Mart Pharmacy in Ashland as lead pharmacy technician. She is married to Jeremy Roland, who is also employed by Wal-Mart in Ashland. Jeremy has recently discerned a call to ministry and has recently become a credentialed pastor with the Assemblies of God. Jeremy and Carrie have one son, David. 
Nancy leads us in our morning worship as our pianist. She received her musical training at Bowling Green State University, earned her master’s degree in education at Ashland University, and taught elementary music in the Loudonville School. As of July 2013, Nancy is now also the church pianist and keyboard player. Nancy also leads our "Joyful Noise" choir. Thank you to Nancy for sharing her great love of music with our congregation!