COPPELL, Texas — Brian J. Willey, a Coppell resident, has been called to serve as an Area Seventy for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The announcement was made April 2, 2026, during the leadership session of the Church’s worldwide general conference in Salt Lake City.
Willey was among 91 Area Seventies called worldwide.
For nearly a decade, Willey has served members in the Coppell and Carrollton areas as a stake president, a role that oversees a regional group of congregations. He previously served as a bishop of a local congregation in Coppell. Those who have worked with him describe his leadership as loving, disciple-focused and dedicated to helping individuals prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
His years of service in North Texas have connected him with hundreds of families and many congregations, preparing him for this broader assignment. Area Seventies provide part-time, voluntary service within assigned geographic areas. They help train and support local leaders, teach congregations and strengthen Church programs. The role traces its origins to biblical times, when Moses invited 70 elders to assist in ministering to the people. The organization continued during the ministry of Jesus Christ and remains part of the Church’s leadership structure today.
Willey will serve in the Church’s United States Southwest Area, which includes Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma and Texas. The assignment will involve frequent travel to meet with Church leaders, missionaries and members. Despite these expanded responsibilities, he and his family will continue to reside in Coppell.
He adds his witness: “Jesus knows and loves each of us and showed us the perfect example of how to serve and minister to each other. As I strive to be a lifelong disciple of Jesus Christ, I look forward to sharing His love with others. My hope is that we may each prepare ourselves, our families, and those we love for His glorious return.”
Willey graduated from the University of Texas School of Law and began his career practicing law with Baker Botts, where he gained experience in corporate and energy-related legal matters. He later transitioned into executive leadership in the energy industry and currently serves as executive vice president for Matador Resources and chairman of the board of San Mateo Midstream.
Willey and his wife, Katy, are the parents of four children. Their family has been actively involved in the Coppell community for many years, participating in school, church and civic activities.
Elder Willey said, “My wife, Katy, and I have loved raising our family in North Texas, where we have been surrounded by so many believers in Jesus Christ. We love the Savior. I am grateful for this new opportunity to bear further witness that Jesus truly is the Christ.”
The call reflects the growth of the Church in Texas, where there are more than 385,000 members in 751 congregations. Leaders such as Willey support local congregations while strengthening connections across the region.
As he begins this new assignment, Willey brings years of service, faith and a commitment to ministering to individuals and families. Those who know him say his leadership and Christcentered focus will bless congregations throughout the region.