Pastor & Staff

Pastor Deb completed her training at the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary. She is an ordained minister in the Christian Church, Disciples of Christ and joined the First Church United family in 2021. Her passion for a healthy family of God is to bring hope and encouragement to all people, regardless of their faith backgrounds. She believes in intergenerational ministries and the benefits of faithfully growing together as one family while acknowledging our individuality. Having been a former hospice chaplain, she is sensitive to the needs of those who are grieving losses in their lives. Pastor Deb and her wife love the outdoors, traveling, kayaking and spending time with friends and family, especially their children and grandchildren.

Kathy Garrido joined First Church United as the Office Administrator in August 2025. She works afternoons at the church. Her day job is high school teacher here in West Liberty. She has lived in West Liberty for over a decade. She loves the community’s rich diversity. In her free time Kathy enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing pickleball, and camping.