Edward J. Parker is a 26-year United States Air Force Vietnam-era disabled veteran with extensive experience in leadership, management, and international service through numerous overseas assignments. He completed his education at Saint Leo College and further strengthened his expertise through multiple military leadership schools and management programs.
In addition to his military career, Pastor Parker has been a dedicated community leader for more than three decades. He has served faithfully as the pastor of First Church in the Crestview area for over 30 years, providing spiritual guidance, community outreach, and support to families across the region. He now brings his depth of experience and commitment of service to his role as Founder and CEO of the Crestview Resource Center.
Read a letter from our CEO here.
Dr. Cheryl Perry is an accomplished minister and a former prison chaplain with the DOC. Her background spans prison and jail ministry. She is a nonprofit executive with over thirty years of experience serving individuals and families, community development, and nonprofit management. Dr. Perry holds graduate degrees in Criminal Justice and Criminology, as well as an earned Doctor of Divinity D.D. from Hardy Academy of Theology. She has held chaplaincy and leadership positions in North Carolina and Florida, including serving five years as Chaplain and Director of The Family Center in Pensacola. Currently, Dr. Perry serves as the Director and Chaplain for the Crestview Resource Center, where she leads partnerships, oversees programs, and advances the Center’s mission to strengthen families in Crestview and the surrounding areas.
Sylvester L. Echols honorably served 27 years in the United States Air Force, achieving the rank of Chief Master Sergeant before retiring from active duty in 2003. He continued his commitment to public service as a Department of Defense Contractor and later in Civilian Service, completing a distinguished 47-year career in October 2020. Mr. Echols holds an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice from the Community College of the Air Force, a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Minot State University, and a Master of Arts in Bible Counseling from Luther Rice College & Seminary. He further expanded his expertise by earning a Mental Health Coach certification from Light University in September 2024. In addition to serving as Vice President of the CRC Board of Directors, Mr. Echols is an active member of the Crestview City Planning and Development Board, where he continues to contribute to the growth and well-being of the community.
Merrita Bristow is a retired United States Air Force veteran whose career included worldwide assignments and leadership responsibilities. After completing her military service, she continued serving the public as a professional with the United States Postal Service, ultimately retiring with decades of experience in operations and administration. She holds a master’s degree in business management from Troy University, providing her with strong expertise in financial oversight, planning, and organizational leadership. In her role as Treasurer of the Crestview Resource Center, Merrita applies these skills to support responsible stewardship and long-term sustainability. Although her career took her around the world, Merrita is a proud Crestview native. She is honored to return home and serve the community that shaped her, contributing her knowledge, integrity, and commitment to the mission of the CRC.
Natasha S. Peacock serves as Secretary on the Crestview Resource Center Board of Directors. She brings more than a decade of municipal government experience to this role. As Deputy City Clerk for the City of Crestview, she provides expertise in public administration and records management. She also supports the Center’s community engagement and outreach efforts. Her contributions help ensure clarity, efficiency, and accountability across the organization.
Natasha is a Certified Municipal Clerk. She holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration from Barry University. She is committed to serving Okaloosa County through ongoing volunteer work. With The Honor Foundation, she conducts mock interviews and résumé workshops for transitioning military personnel. This service aligns with the Center’s mission to support veterans and their families. Natasha is an active member of the Top Ladies of Distinction, Emerald Coast Chapter. Her two decades of involvement with Emerald Coast Odyssey of the Mind reflect her dedication to expanding opportunities for individuals to reach their full potential.
Felton Charles Barnes is a retired U.S. Air Force veteran who served 22 years before transitioning to a 25-year career as a middle school mathematics instructor. He earned master’s degrees in educational leadership from the University of West Florida and Business Management from Troy State University, as well as a bachelor's degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Mr. Barnes has been recognized as Crestview Citizen of the Year (2021) and Teacher of the Year at Shoal River Middle School (2014–2015). He also received Volunteer of the Year from the Okaloosa Youth Development Center in 2002. His lifelong commitment to service, education, and community continues to enrich the Crestview area.
Jill Lewis-Daggs serves as the Volunteer Office Manager for the Crestview Resource Center, contributing strong community engagement and organizational leadership. She has long supported local initiatives across Okaloosa County, building connections among families, schools, churches, and service partners. Jill co-founded and co-chaired the Hands and Hearts United hurricane relief effort, which provided more than $25,000 in supplies to those impacted by Hurricanes Maria, Irma, Harvey, and Matthew, delivering essential items to Texas, Miami, and Puerto Rico. Known for her compassion and ability to unite others, Jill was honored with the prestigious Carolyn Spencer Humanitarian Award by the Okaloosa County Commission on the Status of Women’s Hall of Fame, recognizing her lasting impact and commitment to service. Her picture and legacy will be forever a part of Okaloosa County as she is added to the Hall of Fame located at the County Commissioners’ Office.
Constance “Connie” Johnson is a native of California and serves as a Volunteer Office Assistant. She proudly served 20 years in the United States Air Force, retiring in 1994 as a Aircraft Maintenance Specialist. Following her military career, she worked for a contractor specializing in hazardous materials. Connie has strong organizational skills and a steady, dependable presence to the CRC team. She is known for her commitment to service and her ability to support both staff and clients with professionalism and care.
As a single mother, Connie successfully raised two sons and remains deeply proud of their achievements. Her life experience gives her a heartfelt understanding of the challenges many families face. Connie is grateful for the opportunity to continue serving her community through her work at the CRC.
Tamra has been a Crestview resident since 2020 and fell in love with the area immediately. Tamra experienced poverty and homelessness for the first 20 years of her life, giving her an insight into the struggles and humanity of our low-income and unhoused neighbors. A former internet influencer, Tamra came to the CRC in January 2025 to offer her support and guidance with the CRC website and social media presence. Tamra's love for people and her servant's heart keeps her busy, as she also volunteers elsewhere in the community. She is also the mother of student volunteer, Jesse.
Jesse Graves is the CRC’s volunteer Graphic Artist and Basic Computer Skills instructor. A high school senior, Jesse dedicates her free time to the community as a volunteer at the CRC and a member of the NAACP Youth Council. Jesse plans to pursue a degree in Public Administration in order to continue their commitment to her communities and to non-profit work.