Leadership

Staff

becky purcell

Pastor

Becky joined Burgaw Presbyterian Church in January 2026, recently relocating to Burgaw with her husband, Larry, along with their sweet dog and 2 adorable cats. They have 3 adult children, Jacob (D.C.), Carlin (Boston) and Corrie (NYC).
Becky has graduate level certificates in Gerontology and African American Studies. She has a bachelor’s degree in Home Ec (UGA) and master’s degrees in Recreation (UGA), Christian Ed (Union Presbyterian in Richmond), & Divinity (Columbia Theological Seminary)...and she is working on a PhD in public policy. Most recently she served a church in Jonesboro, Arkansas as a certified Transition Minister Clearly, life-long learning about all aspects and ages of life is a passion! Becky states, “I’m glad to be part of the body of Christ in Burgaw, and could not be more delighted to enjoy God, serve Christ, and fill up on the Holy Spirit as Burgaw Presbyterian’s pastor!”
Becky would love to get to know you! You may reach her by clicking the link below for email communication or by calling the church office at 910-259-2189.

louema Richardson

Office Manager

A Pender County native, Louema has been involved in education and church office management for more than forty years. She worked as the secretary for a private school for eleven years prior to joining the staff of Burgaw Presbyterian Church in 1991. Burgaw Presbyterian Church has been truly blessed to have maintained such a long term relationship with Louema, she is a valuable part of our church family. 

NINA DEMASI

Music Director

Nina grew up in Hickory, NC, and sang in Baptist Church choirs as a youngster.  She now has more than 25 years experience as a choir director and soloist for Protestant and Roman Catholic churches in Connecticut and South Carolina. She has directed adult, youth, and children's choirs. Nina and her husband, Ralph, relocated to this area and have been an integral part our of church since 2023.   

ann dees

Organist/Pianist

Ann studied music at Meredith College and graduated from Appalachian State University with a degree in Music Education.  She has taught music both privately and in the public school system for more than 30 years.  Having served several churches in the area as organist/pianist, we at Burgaw Presbyterian are honored that Ann has been with us since 2016.

ELIZABETH rIVENBARK

Lead, Childcare Center

Beth has been with Burgaw Presbyterian Childcare since 2011 but her connection goes back much further, having attended the childcare center herself as a little girl.  She grew up here in Burgaw and is married to Nick Rivenbark, they have three children.

JENNY PYLAND

Assistant, Childcare Center

Jenny started with Burgaw Presbyterian Childcare as a substitute and we are excited that she has transitioned to join our team in a permanent capacity. She lives in Watha with her husband, Brian Pyland, and their three children. Jenny loves working in the garden and spending time with her family.