Van was born in Jackson and spent the first half of his childhood in Clinton, MS. His family moved to Terry when he was 10 years old. Van graduated from McCluer Academy High School, spent 2 years at Hinds Junior College, graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi (twice), and has recently earned his MBA at Mississippi College. Van gave his life to Christ when he was 15 years old during a revival at First Baptist Church of Byram. He and his family have called Country Woods home since 1999.
Van married Stephanie in 1993 and they have 2 beautiful adult daughters (Alex and Kaela). Alex and her husband Garrett teach in the Clinton school system and Kaela is will soon be starting her second year of Occupational Therapy school at UMMC.
In addition to serving as Deacon, Van handles several areas of technology for the church. When he is not spending time with his family, he can usually be found on a twisty road somewhere riding his motorcycle.