Russell Baptist Association, new interim director of missions

Tommy Poole is the new interim director of missions for Russell Association. He previously served as pastor of Pine Grove Church, Phenix City, before his retirement in January. He also has served at Sunderlan Church, Phenix City; First Church, Hurtsboro; First Church, Lincoln; Holland Creek Church, Phenix City; Ivalee Church, Attalla; and Oak Station Church, Robinwood. He and his wife, Carolyn, have two children and four grandchildren. Poole holds bachelor’s degrees in theology and psychology from William Carey University in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and a master’s degree from International Bible Institute and Seminary. The association voted Feb. 4 and it became effective Feb. 15.