By Leah Hodges Riverbend News
Roger Hutto was born on the same day Neil Armstrong walked on the moon, July 20, 1969, in Williston, Fla. After graduating from Gainesville High School (GHS) in 1987 Hutto attended Stetson University in Deland, Fla., where he was a church music major.
After graduating in 1991, Hutto went on to the First Baptist Church of Geneva, Fla., as the college music minister. When he was ready to move on from there, he moved to Jasper, Fla., where he took the position of minister of music and youth at First Baptist Church of Jasper. Hutto held this position for 17 years before taking over as pastor. When asked how he became interested in becoming a pastor, Hutto states, “I always knew."
Together with his wife of 31 years, Lisa, who is the Supervisor of Elections for Hamilton County and his children Luke (15) and Emily (10), Hutto has been able to revitalize the children and family ministry side of First Baptist by providing good leadership, feeding the congregation, having activities that showcase biblical lessons and mentoring the members of the church.
When asked what challenges he has faced in his long career as a minister, staying culturally relevant is the first thing that came to mind. When asked how he has been able to overcome these challenges, Hutto said, "Longevity, consistency and good results from the new youth leadership."
In his spare time Hutto enjoys playing golf, hunting and fishing. Hutto has now been the pastor in one form or another at First Baptist Church of Jasper for 30 years. First Baptist Church of Jasper is located at 207 Second St. NE.