Rev. Talon Keeney serves as the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Gatesville, where he has the privilege of shepherding the church in the very community where he was raised. A native of Gatesville, Texas, Talon graduated from Gatesville ISD and has a deep love for the people and community that helped shape his life and faith.

Talon came to faith in Christ as a young boy at Children’s Camp at Latham Springs Baptist Encampment in Aquilla, Texas. From an early age he sensed God’s call to ministry, and at just 19 years old he began serving as Youth and Music Minister at First Baptist Church of Evant. In that role he invested in the spiritual lives of students while leading the church in worship and discipleship.

Following his time in local church ministry, Talon served with the Tri-Rivers Baptist Area as Associate Director. In that role he worked alongside pastors and ministry leaders across Central Texas, supporting and encouraging more than 110 Baptist churches. His work focused on strengthening churches, equipping leaders, and advancing the mission of the gospel throughout the region.

In January 2026, Talon was called to serve as the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Gatesville. Returning to pastor the church in his hometown has been both a calling and a great personal joy. His ministry is centered on faithfully preaching God’s Word, strengthening the local church, and helping people grow in a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ. He is deeply committed to the authority of Scripture, the centrality of the gospel, and the mission of making disciples.

Talon is married to his wife, Josalyne, and together they have one son, Shepherd. He considers being a husband and father one of God’s greatest blessings. The Keeney family is grateful to serve Christ and His church in the Gatesville community.