Born and raised in the Republic area, Justin attended Republic schools from kindergarten through high school. He went on to earn both a bachelors and masters degree from Drury University in Springfield. During college, he served as a reserve fire fighter for the city of Republic, working up to the rank of Engineer. After college Justin worked as a police officer in Springfield Missouri. After leaving the police department, he went to work for Jack Henry, where he has remained for almost 17 years.
Justin has lived in Republic most of his adult life. He and his wife Shannon were married in 2010, and have one daughter, Saoirse, who attends Republic Middle School. Justin and his family enjoy fly fishing, hunting and clay shooting, table top board gaming, traveling, and reading.