Staff

Russ Taylor, Lead Pastor

Pastor Russ joined the OBC staff in April 2003, serving as both Student Pastor (2003-06) and Associate Pastor (2006-14) before accepting his current position.
Russ was born and raised in Kansas City, graduating from Lee's Summit High School, Calvary Bible College, and Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Russ’ wife, Melissa, is the Elementary Math Curriculum Coordinator for Raytown Schools. Russ and Melissa have three grown children and two grandsons.

Caleb Wright, Family Pastor

Pastor Caleb joined Oakwood Baptist in July 2025. With over twenty years of commitment to youth and children’s ministry, he is passionate about supporting parents and families on their faith journey with Jesus. Caleb has previously served as a Youth Pastor and NextGen Pastor at various churches in the Kansas City area, Wisconsin, and Tennessee. He and his wife have been happily married for more than 25 years and are proud parents of three adult children.

Carol Bowers
Ministry Assistant

Carol is in her second stint in this position, having previously served Oakwood from 2016-2019. She returned in 2024 to ply her sweet spirit and administrative gifts in further service to our church family. Carol and her husband, Bill, served overseas with the International Mission Board for 15 years. Prior to that, Carol taught high school business courses. Bill as a retired pastor, Director of Associational Missions, and missionary offers pulpit supply to local churches. They live in Independence and are faithful members of a sister church.