Smith continues family legacy as newest TBC board member
Like grandfather, like grandson.
When Brandon Smith joined the board of trustees at Tennessee Bible College, it was more than just a new chapter in his own life—it was the continuation of a legacy rooted in faith and a deep family connection to the college and Christian education. After all, his grandfather, the late John Houser, once held the same role.
“My grandfather served on the board for many years and was a very close friend to TBC founder Malcolm Hill my entire life,” Smith said. “So when I was asked if I would be interested in joining the board, I was honored. The Lord has blessed us with the TBC, and I would love to help in any way possible.”
For TBC President David Hill, Smith’s appointment holds both institutional and personal significance.
“Brandon represents a new generation of leadership for TBC,” Hill said. “He has the ability to look energetically to the future, yet has a strong foundation, sure and steadfast, anchored in the past as a Christian. I look forward to working with him. I was hired by his grandfather, John Houser, when he served as chairman of the board of trustees and had the privilege of working with him for many years.”
Smith brings a diverse professional background to the role. Having grown up in an automotive parts sales and distribution company, he has experience in everything from warehouse labor and logistics to sales and bookkeeping.
“If any part of my working experiences can help TBC, I am more than happy to assist,” he said.
Tennessee Bible College has always been close to Smith’s heart—not just because of his family’s involvement but because of the impact the college has made on his life through its graduates.
“For most of my life, I have known about TBC and its wonderful works to teach men the tools to become sound gospel preachers,” he said.
He pointed to Kerry Duke, TBC alum and current vice president, who has been his minister at West End Church of Christ in Livingston since he was a teenager, and current TBC student Brad Burkett, who serves as associate minister.
“Kerry proclaims the gospel in a way that’s easy to understand without any need to dilute or water down the word,” Smith said. “Brad’s knowledge and passion for the word are evident to all who are around him. I know from talking with him that he greatly values the things he’s learned at Tennessee Bible College.”
Smith joins the board during a time of growth and digital transformation for the college, and he recognizes the unique challenges it faces.
“Our world changes by the day—both from a political and technological standpoint—which brings new challenges that the next generation will face,” he said. “Making sure we can get the Lord’s word out to as many as possible, efficiently and safely, is vital—especially in regions of the world that wish to silence the true word of God.”
Despite the challenges, Smith is confident in TBC’s mission and people. “Tennessee Bible College’s greatest strength is its people. From one end of the directory to the other, you have people ready to work—people who believe in what they are doing—and it shows in the effort and passion they put into their work.”
That same kind of commitment is visible in Smith’s own life. He serves as a deacon at West End Church of Christ in Livingston, where his father is an elder.
“My parents, Tim and Patty Smith, took me to church my entire childhood. They taught me the importance of being active in the church, and I will forever be thankful for that.”
He appreciates the opportunity to have served with other family members too.
“My father served alongside both my grandfather, John Houser, and my wife’s grandfather, Joe Hill, before their passing,” he said. “Now I serve with my father-in-law, Joey Hill, brother-in-law, LG Puckett, and cousin, Matthan Houser.”
Smith’s legacy of faith continues with his wife, Kayla, and their two children, Beckett and Kylie.
“I have truly been blessed with a wonderful Christian family,” he said.
With tradition behind him and a mission ahead, Smith is ready to serve at TBC—just like his grandfather before him.
-Amy Davis
