Friendship SBC Elders

The staff and leadership here at Friendship is comprised of men who love, care and pray for every single person in the church. If you have questions for any of our staff, feel free to reach out and email them or call our church office to speak with them.

Jesse Watkins

Teaching Pastor

Jesse Watkins has served as the Lead Pastor and Preaching Pastor at Friendship SBC for 13 years. Previously, he has served as a Youth Pastor, Associate Pastor, and Pastor of Young Adults and College Students. He also spent 12 years serving the North Carolina Air National Guard as a Jet-Engine Mechanic.

Jesse attended Wingate University as a Major in Music and Psychology for several years. He eventually graduated from Liberty University with a Bachelor's in Christian Counseling. After that, he graduated with a Masters' Degree in Theology from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary. He has been married to his high school sweetheart, Tyler for 19 years. They have three wonderful children. Jesse enjoys writing music, collecting books, and cooking BBQ on the smoker.

Dakota Stephens

Family Ministry Pastor

Dakota leads all things children's ministry here at the church. Your children will get to interact with him on Wednesday nights during AWANA and during children's church on Sunday.

He currently attends The College at Southeastern online to attain his Bachelor's in Pastoral Ministries. He married his wife Holly in April 2021! They have wonderful sons named Hank & Teddy. With another son coming in March 2026

Justin Ridenhour

Youth Pastor

Justin Ridenhour has been a member of FSBC since 2014. During that time, he has faithfully served as an Elder, Deacon, Children’s Sunday School teacher, Youth Sunday School teacher, and Young Adult Sunday School teacher.

Justin earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Physical Education from Pfeiffer University in 2007. He has served as a full-time teacher at Mt. Pleasant High School since 2007, teaching Health and Physical Education. In addition, he coached baseball there for 18 years.

Justin has been married to his high school sweetheart, Serena, for 16 years. Together, they have three wonderful children. In his free time, he enjoys coaching, hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family.