Church of Ascension – Westminster Presbyterian Church

Meet the Teachers

I have been a teacher in the children’s Sunday School classes for most years since joining Westminster in the early 80’s, so that would make about 30 years. One would think that the Bible stories would be pretty boring by now, but it continually amazes me in re-reading them for the lesson how there always seems to be a new twist that I hadn’t noticed before. And of course, you never know what is going to come from the fresh insights provided by the children. I like the new curriculum and the continuity of the Bible stories it presents. And it’s such a treat to see Debbie Babelay’s enthusiasm engage the children in our opening service. I think it is very important for our children to know the Bible stories for the foundation it provides in how we understand our world and conduct our lives. Presbyterians are distinguished for the high value they place on education, and I’m happy to be a small part of that.

Ashley Baker

I love teaching 3rd and 4th grade Sunday school. I find it is an age where children are beginning to have the ability to discuss topics and form their own opinions. I love watching children discover what the world looks like through their eyes.

I was raised in Crossville attending a very small church group that felt like family. As an adult, I searched for that same feeling in a couple of different churches. When I finally found Westminster Presbyterian, I got that feeling that I had when I was growing up in that small church. It feels just right!

I grew up doing plays at The Playhouse and being outside exploring the woods and farm. I went to UT and majored in Theatre. I have held many jobs that include working at Walt Disney World, being a travel agent, tour guide, and waitress. I was a professional actress for many years in Chicago, and worked at The Second City comedy club doing work both on and off stage.

Kenny and I have been together for 25 years and thought Knoxville was a great place to raise a family. Our children, Ella and James, attend Bearden Middle. I homeschooled the kids during their last elementary school years. I love the natural learning process of children and believe learning should be fun, not torture!

Debbie Babelay

Hello, my name is Debbie Babelay. This year I have the wonderful opportunity of teaching the 2-3 year olds in our Sunday School program. They are all precious to me. We have fun learning about God’s love and how each of us is a special child of God. I look forward to their smiling faces each Sunday morning. This is my 3rd year teaching in the Sunday School program. I have also worked with vacation bible school.

My husband, Ed, and I were both born and raised in Knoxville, and graduated from UT (Go Big Orange). We have raised two girls, Rachel and Sarah. Rachel is married, living in Corryton, and has 2 young children ages 3 and 6 that I have spoiled with no guilt attached. Sarah is single and lives here in Knoxville. I am a retired Knox County elementary teacher. I taught mostly Kindergarten, with several years of 1st and 2nd mixed in as well. I began teaching in 1972 and had to resign in ‘86 when our second child was born. She had congenital deafness and some respiratory issues that required our full attention. I returned back to work in ‘96 as the director of Second Presbyterian Preschool where we were members. I went back to teaching with Knox County in 1999.

I spend a lot of my time taking care of the needs of my 86 year old mother who lives here. I volunteer time at Lonsdale elementary where our oldest daughter, Rachel, teaches. I miss teaching and working with children, but not the hassles of the educational system. I like to read, especially James Patterson books. I am a member of the Taoist Tai Chi Society, and attend Tai Chi classes at the O’Connor Senior Citizens Center and other classes around town. I spend a lot of time with our grandchildren; taking care of them when they are sick, and providing “taxi” service as needed due to parent’s working schedules.

This is an exciting time at Westminster with so many new families joining. I look forward to interacting with you as parents and with working with your children.

Peace and Grace to you,

Debbie Babelay

Emily Wright

I have known Westminster my entire life! I grew up in the church since birth. My faith is rooted in so many wonderful experiences at Westminster such as going on trips with Choristers, Montreat, and a Mission experience to Mexico. I went to college in Alabama at Birmingham-Southern. After college, I lived in Birmingham where I worked in sales. I met and married my husband Wiley there. Jim Carter (former Westminster minister) married us at Independent Presbyterian in Birmingham. Wiley’s career has taken us to New Mexico and Arkansas, and now back to Knoxville. We have been here since 2011. We have 3 children, Ella (11), Grant (7), and Walker (5). I work as the Assistant Director of the preschool at Central Baptist which allows me to have a similar schedule to my children. My favorite job is being their Mom!