Tom grew up in the U.S., in Texas, and earned degrees in psychology from the University of Texas at Austin, in theology from Dallas Theological Seminary and a PhD in Higher Education Administration from the University of North Texas.

Iris grew up in the U.S., in Arkansas, and earned degrees from the University of Southern Mississippi and Dallas Theological Seminary. Iris serves as staff team leader of the women's ministry at Capital Community.

Tom and Iris have been married for 26 years and have two grown sons, Lewis and Logan. Tom and Iris have lived in China for the past 17 years.