Partners

Michael Whitlock Working at Whitlock Accounting Services in Alcoa or pigeon forge Tennessee

Michael Whitlock, CPA

Founder
Alcoa/Pigeon Forge
Brenda Ledbetter Working at Whitlock Accounting Services in Alcoa or pigeon forge Tennessee

Brenda Ledbetter, MBA

Principal
Alcoa
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Brenda is originally from Middle Tennessee but now resides in Maryville, TN with her husband. She is a graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan College and holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting. She also earned a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Campbell university with a concentration in taxation and accounting. She continues her education annually through continual professional education programs offered by accredited, professional organizations. She has vast experience in accounting and tax across a variety of industries including rental property management, property development, flight crews, short term lodging, and fifteen years of physician practice management. She provides services in the areas of business and individual income taxation, compilations and reviews, and has significant experience in the area of small business accounting such as start up’s, payroll services, and Quickbooks training and setup. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants

Chris Rop, CPA

Partner
Alcoa
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Chris was born in Louisiana, but by age four, his family moved back to Maryville, Tennessee—his parents’ hometown—where he has lived ever since. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from The University of Tennessee and went on to receive his Master’s of Accountancy from East Tennessee State University.Chris began his career with Whitlock & Company as an intern during his junior year at UT in 2013 and has been with the firm ever since. In 2016, he earned his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, and in 2024, he was promoted to Partner. Over the years, Chris has developed into an experienced tax professional, working almost exclusively on individual and business tax returns. In addition to his tax work, he also performs financial reviews—primarily for clients in the construction industry.Chris takes great pride in mentoring new team members, continuing the tradition of support and guidance he received from Mike and Brenda early in his career. He finds the most reward in helping clients by simplifying what is often a stressful part of their lives—taxes and bookkeeping. His goal is always to make things easier for them and add real value through his work.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants

Managers

Thomas Booker, CPA,CGMA, MBA

Senior Tax Manager
Alcoa
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Thomas has more than two decades of experience assisting clients with financial reporting, accounting, and tax advisory needs. Thomas’s specialty is federal and multistate tax planning and compliance for individuals, corporations, partnerships/LLCs, and nonprofit organizations. He also oversees the preparation and submission of federal and state tax returns for these entities. Additionally, he is experienced in researching complex issues that have tax and business implications. With a concentration in strategic planning services, including due diligence and transaction advisory services, he is well-prepared to assist clients across multiple industries.                                                    

EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
  University of Tennessee
Master of Accountancy
  University of Tennessee
Master of Business Administration in Management Information Systems
  Tennessee Technological University
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  Licensed in the state of Tennessee
Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA)
-Past President–Knoxville Chapter Continuous Chair,
- Education Committee–  Knoxville Chapter
- 2016 CPA of the Year–Knoxville Chapter

Margaret Nelson, CPA

Tax Manager
Pigeon Forge
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Margaret is a Certified Public Accountant, licensed in Tennessee and Georgia. As the Tax Manager of the Pigeon Forge office location, Margaret brings extensive experience in individual, corporate, and partnership tax preparation and review. Known for her precision and proactive approach, she plays a key role in managing the firm’s tax workflow while ensuring high-quality service and compliance across a broad client base.

With a deep understanding of tax regulations and a passion for helping clients navigate complex financial matters, Margaret is a trusted advisor dedicated to delivering accurate, timely, and personalized service year-round. In Margaret's spare time, you can find her in Florida visiting family or hiking in the smoky mountains.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants

Malinda Moyers, CPA

Senior Assurance Manager
Remote
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Malinda holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting, as well as a Master’s of Science degree from the University of Memphis.  Malinda joined the firm in 2021 with extensive experience related to supervising and performing audits of for-profit, non-profit, and governmental entities.  She also has vast experience in financial reporting, tax compliance, industry standards and regulations.  Malinda continues her education annually through continuing education programs offered by accredited, professional organizations.  In her spare time, she enjoys traveling and spending time with family.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants

Alica Mace

Accounting Services Manager
Alcoa
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Alicia serves as the Accounting Service Manager at our firm, where she oversees a team of professionals responsible for full-charge bookkeeping services. With a strong background in accounting and a keen eye for detail, she ensures that all financial records are accurate, timely, and compliant with current standards. Alicia is skilled at managing workflows, supporting staff development, and maintaining high-quality service for our clients. Her leadership and dedication make her a vital part of our firm’s continued success.

Amy Barham

Human Resources Director
Alcoa
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Amy joined the firm in 2018. Prior to Whitlock & Company, Amy worked at a CPA Firm in Atlanta, GA. Amy brings a unique blend of strategic HR leadership and financial compliance expertise to the role. With a professional background in bank auditing, Amy leverages a strong understanding of regulatory frameworks, internal controls, and organizational risk to help shape a people-first culture grounded in integrity, accountability, and performance. Amy is originally from Greeneville, TN, and earned a Bachelor of Science Administration from the University of Tennessee with a concentration in accounting.

Tax

Bob Dye, CPA

Senior Tax
Alcoa
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With over six decades of experience in public accounting, Bob Dye brings unmatched expertise and dedication to his role at Whitlock & Company. Bob continues to work part-time, focusing primarily on processing individual and small business tax returns. His deep knowledge of tax law, meticulous attention to detail, and long-standing client relationships have made him a trusted advisor to generations of clients.
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PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants

Josh Ledbetter

Senior Tax
Alcoa
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Josh is a Senior Tax Associate at Whitlock & Company where he specializes in preparing and reviewing both individual and business tax returns. With several years of experience in public accounting, Josh brings a comprehensive understanding of tax compliance and planning strategies for a wide range of clients, including sole proprietors, partnerships, and small corporations.
In addition to his tax expertise, Josh has a solid background in bookkeeping, which enhances his ability to identify and resolve accounting issues that impact tax filings. His attention to detail and analytical skills ensure accurate reporting and efficient service.

Josh is also committed to fostering growth within the firm, serving as a seasonal mentor to tax interns. He provides hands-on training and guidance to help develop their technical skills and professional confidence during busy seasons.

When he's not in the office, Josh stays current with tax law changes and accounting best practices to better serve his clients and team.
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PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants

Codey Machleit, Macc

Tax Associate
Alcoa
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Codey is a tax accountant who joined the firm in 2020 as an intern. He performs tax and bookkeeping services for clients in a variety of industries. He is currently studying for his Certified Public Accountant exams. In his free, Codey enjoys spending time with his wife, their two children and their two dogs. He also enjoys spending time outdoors and cheering on his favorite sports teams. Codey was born in Hawaii but grew up in Oak Ridge, TN.

Matt Merlucci

Tax Associate
Alcoa
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Matt is a Tax Associate at Whitlock & Company. He first joined the firm as an intern in 2022 and demonstrated dedication and skill in tax and accounting services. Matt holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Tennessee. In his current role, Matt provides tax preparation services for a variety of clients. He is also a proficient bookkeeper, with hands-on experience using Accounting CS and QuickBooks.

Bob Modesitt, CPA

Senior Tax
Alcoa
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Bob joined Whitlock & Company, PC in 2024 as a Tax Manager. Prior to joining the firm, Bob served as a Zone Manager at another accounting firm and was previously the senior partner of his own CPA firm. Bob brings decades of experience providing tax services to clients in a wide range of industries, including restaurants, hospitality, manufacturing, and professional service organizations. He is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in both Tennessee and Georgia.

Bob is married and enjoys life in the Knoxville area, where he and his family explore the scenic beauty of East Tennessee. He has lived in several countries abroad and continues to travel extensively, finding both planned vacations and spontaneous adventures—especially cruises—to be rewarding and enriching experiences.

A lifelong competitor, Bob participated in collegiate athletics at a modest level and has since earned a third-degree black belt in martial arts, a discipline he pursued for many years.

He values connecting with clients and helping them turn financial plans into real-world results. For Bob, strategic tax planning isn’t just about numbers—it’s about helping clients achieve meaningful savings and long-term success.

Munis Owenby, Mpacc

Tax Associate
Pigeon Forge
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Munis joined Whitlock & Company P.C. in 2022 and brings over five years of diverse accounting experience to the team. Prior to joining the firm, she gained extensive experience in the manufacturing, property management, and retail industries, where she developed a strong foundation in cost accounting, financial reporting, tax accounting, inventory management, and both international and domestic logistics. She is also highly skilled in customer service and client relations.

At Whitlock & Company P.C., Munis is responsible for financial statement and compilation preparation, income tax preparation, payroll services, write-up services, and a range of accounting support functions. She is known for her attention to detail and commitment to accuracy and compliance in all aspects of her work.

Munis holds an Associate of Applied Science in Business Management from Walters State Community College, as well as a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Professional Accounting with an emphasis in Fraud Examination, Forensic Accounting and Advanced Income Taxation from Colorado State University Global. Munis is currently pursuing her CPA license.

Outside of work, Munis is a devoted wife and proud mother of two. She is passionate about accounting and finds fulfillment in helping clients achieve financial clarity.

Ginny Wooldridge, EA

Tax Supervisor
Remote
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Ginny graduated from Arkansas State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and received a Master’s Degree in Taxation from Villanova University.  Over her career, she has become versed in a wide variety of taxation issues.  In her spare time, she enjoys crocheting, wine tastings, as well as spending time with her husband and many beloved pets.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants

Accounting Services

Chad Berrong

Accounting Services Associate
Alcoa

Melanie Erickson

Accounting Services Associate
Alcoa
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Melanie is a highly skilled bookkeeper who plays a key role in payroll processing, taxes, and financial analysis. She is proficient in multiple accounting software programs and understands accounting principles and best practices. Melanie prioritizes efficiency and precision in her work and is dedicated to providing accurate and timely financial information. In her spare time, she enjoys outdoor activities with her husband, spending time with her family, and being active in her local church.

Courtney Glass

Accounting Services Associate
Alcoa
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Courtney finished her Bachelor’s Degree at King University with cum laude status. In pursuit of her future career goals, Courtney hopes to put her knowledge and organization skills to use in her current Accounting role. Originally from the north but now located here in East Tennessee. Courtney likes to explore new outdoor adventures. Between her career and new outdoor adventures, Courtney can’t wait to see where life will take her.

Mary Loveday

Accounting Services Associate
Alcoa
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Mary is a highly experienced Bookkeeper with over 40 years in the accounting field. At Whitlock & Company, she handles all aspects of bookkeeping, including payroll, bank reconciliations, processing sales tax returns, etc. Her deep knowledge, accuracy, and efficiency make her a trusted resource for both clients and colleagues. With decades of hands-on experience, Mary brings unmatched reliability helping businesses stay financially organized and informed.

Michelle Maze

Accounting Services Associate
Pigeon Forge
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Michelle started at Whitlock & Company in 2023.  She has over 20 year’s experience in Administrative and Bookkeeping roles in the public and private sector. She enjoys assisting clients and making their experience a positive one when it comes to taxes and accounting. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, gardening and visiting family.

Martha Pelfrey

Accounting Services Associate
Alcoa
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Martha is a dedicated bookkeeper with a reputation for reliability and client-focused service.  Over the years, Martha has handled the bookkeeping for a deverse range of clients. Known for her timely support, Martha takes pride in helping clients stay organized. Whether reconciling accounts, preparing sales tax returns, or assisting with year-end processes, Martha is committed to delivering dependable, personalized service that meets each client’s unique needs.

Jeff Stuber

Accounting Services Associate
Alcoa
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Jeff joined the firm in 2024.  He brings 30 plus years of accounting experience across varied industries. Jeff is a QuickBooks Online Certified Pro Advisor.  He specializes in payroll tax return reviews, review and clean-up of massive data loads, problem solving, and homeowner associations. Jeff holds bachelor’s degrees in business and information technology. When not working, he enjoys time with family, fishing, and travel.

Admin

Patricia Baker

Administrative Assistant
Alcoa
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Patricia started as Admin for the Partners in 1992 at Gillespie & Sherrod, Ingram, Overholt & Bean and then Whitlock & Company.  As lead admin in Tax Processing, her goal is to be a vital part of promoting great tax work for the clients.  Outside of work she enjoys church choir, quilting, taking walks, short road trips, and loves chatting with people to hear their stories and experiences.

Yolonda Bell

Administrative Assistant
Alcoa
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Yolonda joined Whitlock & Company, PC in August 2023. Yolonda works directly with the Tax Accountants to ensure all client documents are organized for tax preparation as well as providing support to clients and the team. In Yolonda's spare time, she enjoys the outdoors, such as playing golf and hiking to see waterfalls.

Savannah Collins

Client Support Specialist
Alcoa
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Savannah is a Client Support Specialist for our firm, specializing in software integration, process optimization, and administrative support to help streamline internal workflows. She holds a bachelor's degree in business administration from Georgia Southern University. In her spare time she is an aviation enthusiast, actively pursuing her commercial pilot’s license.

Delicia Jackson

Front Desk Receptionist
Alcoa
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Delicia is the friendly face that welcomes every client to our firm. As the front desk receptionist, she brings a warm, approachable personality and a strong sense of professionalism to her role. Whether she's answering phones, scheduling appointments, or assisting with client inquiries, Delicia ensures everyone feels valued and well taken care of. Her natural ability to connect with people and keep things running smoothly makes her an essential part of our team.

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