Dr. Gregory S. Neal
Pastor
Greg was appointed to Lakewood in July of 2021 and is thrilled to be a part of this vibrant and growing community. He is passionate about leading a long-standing, traditional church to grow into new expressions of faith in our constantly changing neighborhood and world.
Contact Greg if you:
- Want to know more about Lakewood UMC
- Have a pastoral care need
- Have a crazy idea you think the church could help make happen
- Want to grab a coffee and chat about anything
John Gill
Music Director
John has been on the music staff at Lakewood UMC in some form or fashion since 2005, when beloved choir director and organist, Anne Albritton became ill. Since then, he has gone from the position of organist to directing the choir as well. John loves his "gig" at Lakewood and feels deeply called to the music ministry. He can often be found volunteering at Juliette Fowler Communities playing the piano or organ for the Sunday afternoon services, hymn sings, and other activities.
John's favorite season of the year is Christmas, when the choir presents its annual cantata with orchestra. For several years, our choir has been invited to sing at the Museum of Biblical Art here in Dallas, a Christmas concert we've come to look forward to and enjoy.
John holds the Bachelor of Music degree from the University of North Texas. He has also studied organ privately and has had the opportunity to visit and play many of the great organs in England, France, and Spain.
New singers are always welcome! Please contact John if you are interested.
Eva Cherry
Office Administrator
A lifelong member of LUMC, Eva has worked in the church office since 2016. If you ever want to give her something to do, ask her to design a flyer - it's her favorite! Outside of work, Eva is a caregiver for a family member with Alzheimer's and works a "side hustle" at Grow North Texas, a local nonprofit dedicated to improving food access. She is the owner of the "church dog," Margaux, as well as a fluffy cat named Max (who does not come to church), and is a member of a book club.
Contact Eva if you:
- Want to make a flyer for a church event or mission - she was not kidding when she said making flyers was her favorite
- Have questions about anything that is not pastoral
- Are interested in exchanging entertaining pet videos
Joan O'Brien
Joan has been making every person that enters our doors feel welcome since 2003. By using her background in professional catering, she makes sure we have tasty snacks each Sunday, keeps things in order, and sets up for events we host. Joan helps in the kitchen and nursery, and her loving care effects just about every room in our building. Joan is also our resident Irishwoman and brings us all smiles from her lighthearted sense of humor!
Elouise Murphy
Finance Secretary
Elouise came to Lakewood UMC in 2002 as part-time Finance Secretary. She and her husband of 47 years, Dan, have three adult children (two daughters and a son) and two preschool grandchildren. They enjoy family vacations and weekend get- togethers. Elouise enjoys music of all sorts, piano, board games and reading books with the grandkids. She also enjoys working in residential real estate with Ebby Halliday REALTORS. Through the years it has been Elouise's great joy and pleasure to work with the Lakewood members and church staff. Elouise appreciates the way Lakewood UMC continually serves the community and beyond with compassion and outreach ministry.

