Our Staff & Board of Directors
Becky Bennett, Executive Director
Becky and Kevin Bennett reside in Franklin, NC. While they have moved many times and lived many places, Franklin has always been Becky’s home and they jumped at the opportunity to return in April of 2020.
Becky attended Appalachian State University, spending 10 years in the sports medicine field.
Together they own and operate two small businesses based in Franklin. Becky enjoys cooking, gardening, sports, and spending time outdoors. Kevin enjoys working on his tractor, bonfires, and dad jokes.
Though they do not have biological children, they have two goldendoodles, Bailey and Maple, whom they treat like children.
Dr. Lisa DeForest, President
When asked about being a board member for Magnolia Mission, I didn't hesitate at all. As a birthmother myself, I know the importance of providing support to biological families, as well as foster and adoptive families. I have a master's degree in Human Services Counseling: Marriage & Family, and a Doctor of Education in Community Care & Counseling: Traumatology. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate in NC and mental health consultant. Previously, I worked as a Birthmother Caseworker and authored the workbook "Is Adoption for Me?". I believe in encouraging others with our actions and supporting local community members. Our communities are only as strong as our families, and I love that Magnolia Mission works to build healthy families - biological, foster, and adoptive.
Russell Hawkins II, Vice President
As a longtime Macon County resident, I am committed to serving our community. I currently serve clients at my Edward Jones location in Franklin as a Certified Financial Planner Professional. In addition to serving on the Magnolia Mission Board, I also volunteer my time as a member of Junaluskee Masonic Lodge and the Franklin Rotary Club. Away from work and service I am a full-time husband to my beautiful wife, Hope, and full-time father to my three children Emma, Griffin, and Lailah.
My family and I are active members of Cowee Baptist Church. My personal hobbies include traveling around the world with my family and outdoor activities such as golf, fishing and kayaking. Philanthropy is something that is greatly important to me and my family, so I am grateful to serve Magnolia Mission and this community in the best way possible.
Jill Murphy, Treasurer
Jill and Garry Murphy (although everyone calls Garry by our last name of Murphy) reside in Franklin, NC. Jill is originally from Michigan and Murphy is from Memphis, TN.
Jill is a medical transcriptionist who works from home and Murphy owns his own business as a paint contractor.
Jill and Murphy attend Discover Church in Franklin and enjoy being door greeters on Sundays.
Together they have 9 grandchildren and one great-grandson. They love spending time with their grandkids, hiking, bonfires, and traveling.
Brandon Crone, Board Member
I am a Macon County native. I graduated from Franklin High School in 2003. I have worked for Macon County Emergency Services since 2005. I am married to my wife, Sabrina (Bishop) Crone. We have two children, Leelyn (5 years old) and Clara (2 years old). I am currently serving as Interim-Pastor at Burningtown Baptist Church. I came to Magnolia Mission through my work, and found an organization that cared for foster children in Macon County in the way that I feel God has called us all to do. I am happy to be helping to ensure that these precious children and the families that care for them are provided with the best support and love possible.
Michelle Hubbs, Board Member
Randy Janoe, Board Member
Randy and his wife, Natalie, are Western North Carolina natives and have spent most of their lives in Franklin, NC. Post-graduation from Western Carolina University, Randy made a career in the financial industry spending a decade as a Banker, and more recently working for a start-up financial technology company. He spends most of his free time raising his two girls, coaching youth sports, church volunteering opportunities, wrenching on old cars & trucks, and never missing a Green Bay Packers football game. He is committed to Magnolia Mission's outreach and supporting his local community. 1 Peter 4:10