Biographies I
November 23, 2020
Biographies K
November 23, 2020

Biographies J

EDGAR JACKSON

Edgar Jackson became pastor of Beulah Baptist Church of the Pensacola Baptist Association in 1965.

Secondary Source:
Ruth Andrews, Beulah Baptist Church, 100 Years, p. 7.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

EDWARD L. JACKSON

Edward L. Jackson was a native of Marion, Alabama. He graduated from Howard College and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Jackson served as pastor of East Hill Baptist Church, Tallahassee, 1951-1953 and Island Baptist Chapel, Anna Maria, 1954-1960.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

EUGENE JACKSON

Eugene Jackson was ordained by Pine Hills Baptist Church. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Lake Mary. He and his wife had one son.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES ‘JERRY’ JACKSON

James ‘Jerry’ Jackson graduated from Stetson University and Stetson College of Law. He served as president of the Florida Baptist Financial Services in 2000. Jackson and his wife Mimi have two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, February 10, 2000, p. 1, 5.

MARQUIS DEWITT JACKSON

Jackson,-Marquis-DeWitt

Marquis DeWitt Jackson (January 22, 1898-January 1, 1978) was born near Wauchula, Florida. He was the son of William Edgar Jackson and Rosetta Bethea Jackson. He had seven brothers; Roye (1900), Seth (1902), William (1904), Eugene (1906), Osie (1909), Jordan (1911), Woodrow (1915), and three sisters; Nettie (1896), Minnie (1896), and Lillie (1918). Jackson was raised in Wauchula (1898-1901), Zolfo Springs (1901-1915), and Fort Meade (1915-1921). He attended Baptist Bible Institute in New Orleans (B.C.T., 1924); M.C.T., 1925). Jackson married Theressa Fredericks on June 9, 1918, at Alexandria, Louisiana, and they had three children; Orville (1921), Etoile (1926), and Evelyn (1927). Jackson was converted at age 10 and baptized at New Hope Baptist Church near Wauchula. He was ordained July 13, 1924, at the Coliseum Place Baptist Church in New Orleans. He served as pastor at the following Baptist churches in Florida: Davenport (1931-1934), LaBelle
(1934-1935), Nocatee (1935-1940), Greenville (1940-1943), Miller Memorial in Orlando (1943-1947), Longwood (1948-1954), Oviedo, and Edgewater. Jackson served as the recording secretary of the Florida Baptist Convention from 1940-1965.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.
Florida Baptist Witness, January 12,1978.

R. P. JACKSON

R. P. Jackson was pastor of Deerfield in 1924.

Source:
1924 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 24.

CRAIG JACOBS

Craig Jacobs served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Citra.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHNNY JACOBS

Johnny Jacobs served as pastor of Valley Grove Baptist Church, 1974.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

TOM JACOBS

Tom Jacobs (1944-   ) graduated from the University of South Florida, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of churches in Texas, Alabama and Florida, including West Side Baptist Church, Lake Wales (1981-1985) and Pinecrest Baptist Church, Sanford. Jackson and his wife Jane have three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM H. JACOBS

William H. Jacobs served as pastor of Tenth Avenue Baptist Church, Palmetto. He and his wife had five children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DAVID JAGER

David Jager served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Bagdad.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ARMAND JALBERT

Armand Jalbert was born in New Hampshire and raised in Florida. Jalbert attended the Baptist College of Florida. Jalbert has preached in Florida, Maine, Spain, Northern Virginia, Sedley, Portsmouth and Misawa, Japan. He served as pastor of Magnolia Baptist Church, Altha, 1984-1986. Jalbert met and married his wife, Naoko in Japan while serving in the Navy.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. H. JAMERSON

W. H. Jamerson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Lake City, 1923-1929.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM M. JAMERSON

William M. Jamerson was pastor of Key West Baptist Church in 1930.

Source:
1930 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 31.

FRANCIS JAMES

Francis James served as pastor of Yellow River Baptist Church, Baker.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN T. JAMES

John T. James served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Raiford.

Source: Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

PAUL JAMES

Paul James was born in Ashland, Kentucky. He graduated from Troy State University and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. James served as pastor of Avalon Blvd Baptist Church, Milton. Wife: Nancy.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

PAUL S. JAMES

Paul S. James (1908-2001) was a native of Hartford, New York, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward J. James. He graduated from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. James was appointed in 1957 by the Home Mission Board and served as pastor of the first Southern Baptist church in New York City and first executive director of the Baptist Convention of New York. He retired in 1975 and moved to Deltona, Florida serving as interim pastor of the new Deltona Lakes Baptist Church and at churches in Naples, Cocoa, Miami Shores, Orlando, Gainesville, New Smyrna Beach and New Port Richey. He also was a visiting professor of evangelism at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in the summers of 1975-77. In 1981, James became full-time pastor of Northbay Baptist Church, Niceville and served until 1983. He and his wife Ava Leach James (daughter of missionaries to Burma) had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. K. E. JAMES

W. K. E. James was pastor of Key West Baptist Church in 1925-1927 and College Street Baptist Church, Dade City.

Source:
1925 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 26.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

H. B. JAMIESON

H. B. Jamieson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Greensboro, Gadsden County, 1939; Havana Baptist Church, 1943; and First Baptist Church, Kissimmee1944-1945

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

THOMAS JAMIESON

Thomas Jamieson graduated from Delta State University, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (M. Div.) and Southwestern Baptist
Theological Seminary (PhD). He served as a pastor in Texas and as an associate with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association for four years. In 2009, Jamieson became pastor of First Baptist Church, Mt. Dora. He and his wife Sheri have two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, October 25, 2009, p. 5.

GENE JANDA

Gene Janda (1943-2021) was born in Lorain, Ohio, the son of Earl George and Lenore Mae Janda. He served as pastor of Clay Hill Baptist Church, Maxville, Lane Avenue Baptist Church, Jacksonville, Providence Baptist Church, Palatka, Ephesus Baptist Church, Hilliard, Sunrise Baptist Church, Green Cove Springs and Bostwick Baptist Church. He and his wife Maxine Eddy, have three children.

Source:
St. John’s River Baptist Association, 1981, p. 66.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN JARRARD

John Jarrard served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Williston.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROLAND JARRARD

Roland Jarrard (1928-2014) was born in Gainesville, Georgia the son of Patrick and Annie Jarrard. He graduated from Stetson University and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Jarrard served as pastor of Peniel Lighthouse, Palatka, 1948-1949; Wayside Baptist Church, 1954-1956; Boulevard Baptist Church, 1957 and Pleasant Grove Baptist Church. He became pastor of First Baptist Church, Selma in 1961. Jarrard and his wife Rosemary Suits Stephens Jarrard had four children

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WAYNE PATRICK JARRARD

Wayne Patrick Jarrard (1923-2004) was a native of Gainesville, Georgia, the son of Patrick and Annie Jarrard. He graduated from Stetson University. Jarrard served as pastor of First Baptist Church, De Leon Springs, 1952; Northside Baptist Church, DeLand, 1953; and First Baptist Church, Oakland Park. He served as pastor of Providence Baptist Church, Mobile, Alabama for 31 years. Jarrard and his wife Louise Lentz Jarrard had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROGER JARRELL

Roger Jarrell was a native of Virginia. He graduated from Baptist Bible Institute, Graceville and William Carey College, Hattiesburg. He was the founding pastor of Friendship Baptist Church, Fort Lauderdale and Rock Island Baptist Church, Fort Lauderdale. Jarrell also served as pastor of Union Hill Baptist Church, Holmes County, 1959 and First Baptist Church, Lauderhill.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CURTIS JARVIS

Curtis Jarvis served as pastor of Four Forty-One Baptist Church and Northside Baptist Church, Okeechobee.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

HENRY F. JARVIS

Henry F. Jarvis served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Malone, (1943-1946), First Baptist Church, Carrabelle, First Baptist Church, Destin and Southside Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

 R. FRANK JARVIS

R. Frank Jarvis (1932-1999) was born in Madison County, FL. He served in the U. S. Army from 1953-1956. Jarvis graduated from the Baptist Bible Institute in 1976. He served as pastor of churches in Georgia and Florida including St. Johns Baptist Church, Greenville, Riverside Baptist Church, Mayo, Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Madison and Moseley Hall Baptist Church, Greenville. Jarvis served as director of the Florida Baptist Children’s Home from 1987-1989. He and his wife Mary Ross Jarvis had two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

T. H. JAUDON

T. H. Jaudon (1847-1921) was born in Duvall County, Florida to Elias G. and Frances Jaudon. He was converted and joined Providence Baptist Church
in Bradford County in 1865. He was ordained a deacon at Bethel Baptist Church in Jacksonville in 1872. Jaudon served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Providence, (1877-1896), East Thonotosassa Baptist Church, for 21 years, Shiloh Baptist Church, Plant City, 1879-1888, Hopewell Baptist Church, Turkey Creek Baptist Church and First Baptist Church, Dover, 1904-1907. He died September 20, 1921. He was married to Mary Francis Simmons in 1870 and he was licensed to preach in 1875. He and his wife had 15 children.

Source:
1921 South Florida Baptist Association Minutes, p. 15.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT M. JAYE

Robert M. Jaye (1932-2013) was born in Bay Minette, Alabama, to James and Grace McLain Jaye. Jaye graduated from William Carey College and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He served in the United States Navy, and held pastorates in Mississippi, Louisiana, Missouri, and Georgia. Jaye served as pastor of First Baptist Church in DeFuniak Springs, 1973-1982 and Shalimar Baptist Church in 1987. After the death of his first wife, Lunell Duck he married Janet Brannon. Jaye and Lunell had two children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, June 28, 1973, p. 10.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILBERT JEAN

Wilbert Jean (   -2021) served as pastor of Christian Foundation Mission Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

E. M. JEFFERS

E. M. Jeffers served as pastor of Blake Memorial Baptist Church, Lake Helen.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, March 11, 1926, p. 7.

GEORGE A. JEFFERS

George A. Jeffers was the son of Mr. and Mrs. F. M. Jeffers. He served as principal of the Sulphur Springs public school in 1929 and served as pastor of Phoenix Baptist Church, Jacksonville, 1933.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, April 20, 1933, p. 7.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

HENDLEY F. JELKS

Hendley F. Jelks served as pastor in Georgia and Florida. He served as pastor in Reynolds, Georgia, Fellowship Baptist Church and Immanuel
Church in Tallahassee, Florida, First Baptist Church, Woodville, and churches in Crawfordville and Lynn Haven, Florida. In 1969 he wrote Pines,
Pies and People
, the story of his 33 years as a pastor in Georgia and Florida Baptist churches. The Jelks moved to the Venice, Florida area in 1939 and stayed there for retirement.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES W. JELKS

James W. Jelks served as pastor and singing evangelist at First Baptist Church, Lakeland, from 1937-1942. The church remodeled in 1939
anticipating the hosting of the 1940 Florida Baptist Convention. Tragically the church burned in 1939.

Secondary Source:
Alice M. Muir, A Historic Sketch, pp. 28-30.

CLYDE JENKINS

Clyde Jenkins (1923-2013) served 4 years in the U. S. Army. He served as pastor of Mt. Olive Church in Jacksonville. Jenkins and his wife Ora were married for 50 years.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 28, 1980, p. 12.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

EDWARD B. JENKINS

Edward B. Jenkins graduated from Wake Forest College, 1911, Southern Baptist Seminary, 1914 and Moody Bible College, Chicago, 1915. He was pastor of West Palm Beach Baptist Church in 1920 and First Baptist Church, MacClenny in 1943.

Source:
1920 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 38.
Florida Baptist Witness, January 28, 1943, p. 4.

FRANK EDWIN “ED” JENKINS, JR.

Frank Ed Jenkins (1942-2021) was born in Monroe, North Carolina, the son of Frank and Ruth Helms Jenkins. He graduated from Saint Leo Theological College. Jenkins pastor Caney Creek Baptist Church. He and his wife Janie Sue Jenkins had two sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MAURICE R. JENKINS

Maurice R. Jenkins (1936-2011) was a native of Detroit, Michigan. He was active in the work of the Holmes County Baptist Association and served as pastor of Union Hill Baptist Church, Bethlehem. Jenkins and his wife Barbara had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RICHARD JENKINS

Richard Jenkins attended Providence Bible College, Brandon and Baptist Bible Institute, Graceville. He served as pastor of San Pedro Baptist Church, Taylor County, Faith Baptist Church, Oldtown and Lake Ruth Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM H. JENKINS

William H. Jenkins served as pastor of New Home Baptist Church, Taylor County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

EARL JENNINGS

Earl Jennings served as pastor of Blue Creek Baptist Church, Taylor County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ERNEST HEPZIBAH JENNINGS

Ernest Hepzibah Jennings (1875-1953) was a student at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary during the 1905-1906 academic year. After leaving the seminary he held pastorates in Georgia, Alabama and Florida. His longest pastorate was in Brandenton, Florida between the years of 1922 and 1942. After his tenure at First Baptist Brandenton, he preached at First Baptist Hephzibah and Wrens in Georgia from 1944 until his retirement in 1947.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN JENNINGS

John Jennings served as pastor of Leon Ebenezer Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM SHERMAN JENNINGS

William Sherman Jennings (March 24, 1863-February 27, 1920) was the eighteenth Governor of the State of Florida. He served from January 8, 1901 to January 3, 1905. At age 37 he was the youngest elected governor of Florida. Jennings was born near Walnut Hill, Illinois. He was the son of Joseph W. and Amanda Couch Jennings. He was a cousin of William Jennings Bryan. Jennings came to Florida in 1885 to complete his legal
studies, and began his practice in Brooksville. He and his family were members of the Brookville Baptist Church. In 1888 he served as County
Judge of Hernando County at age 25. He resigned his judgeship to serve Hernando County in the Florida House, and was also Speaker of the House in 1895 at age 32 .Governor Jennings brought in the primary election system, and the first statewide primary was in 1902. He is best known as the Florida Governor who saved 3,000,000 acres of public land for the people of Florida. He and Governor Broward were also champions in the reclamation of the Everglades. A Liberty ship was launched in 1944 named the W. S. Jennings. Governor Jennings served as a faithful member at First Baptist Church, Tallahassee while he lived there. When the family moved to Jacksonville they helped to organize Main Street Baptist Church.

Secondary Source:
Allen Morris, The Florida Handbook, 1997-1998, p. 323
Florida Baptist Witness, August 10, 1944, p. 11.

PRESCOTT F. JERNEGAN

Prescott F. Jernegan (1866-1942) was born in Edgartown, Massachusetts, the son of Captain Jared and Helen Marie Jernegan. He graduated from Brown College (now Brown University) RI. Jernegan served as pastor of First Baptist Church, DeLand, 1895.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

A. FLOURNOY JERNIGAN

A. Flournoy Jernigan graduated from Stetson University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of Ortega Baptist Church, Jacksonville, First Baptist Church, Oviedo and Eastside Baptist Church, Lakeland. Jernigan and his wife, Alva McCurdy Jernigan had one son.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

D. O. JERNIGAN

D. O. Jernigan (April 7, 1913-June 22, 1946) served as a missionary to the Seminole Indians for two years. Jernigan went to school at Stetson and
Baptist Bible Institute. He and his family were having an outing on Lake Okeechobee when a tragedy befell them. His wife got into trouble while
swimming, and when he tried to save her, both of them drowned. They left two children; Glenna, nine years old, and Samuel, eight years old. The
children were raised by their grandmother Jernigan in Blue Mountain, Mississippi. D. O. and his wife’s funeral was conducted by Dr. C. Roy Angell
at Central Baptist Church in Miami. They were born on the same day and died on the same day.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, July 11, 1946, p. 4.

WALLACE JERNIGAN

Wallace Jernigan served as pastor of Five Points Baptist Church, Fernandina Beach, 1995-2002.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

FRANKLIN W. JESSUP, SR.

Franklin W. Jessup, Sr. attended Baptist Bible Institute. He was ordained by Elder Springs Baptist Church, Sanford in 1964. Jessup served as pastor of New Orange Baptist Church, Chipley and Fort McCoy Baptist Church, Marion County. He and his wife, Jeannette Carol Dees Jessup had two sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN R. JESTER

John R. Jester (1875-1965) was born in Cotton Hill, GA. He graduated Mercer University from 1894-1899, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and was given honorary doctorate degrees from Oklahoma Baptist College (1910), Bethel College (1911), and Mercer (1926). Jester served as pastor in Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Florida.  In 1896, Jester led sixteen other Baptists to organize First Baptist Church of Miami. He and his wife Annie Allen Perry Jester, had five children.

Secondary Source:
Martha L. Reiner, Belief in The City, pp. 2-7.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOSIAS JOCELYN

Josias Jocelyn (1941-2020) served as pastor of Santification Haitian Baptist Church, St. Petersburg. He and his wife Kettly Jocelyn had one daughter and five sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ALFRED O. JOHNS, JR.

Alfred O. Johns, Jr. was born in Putnam County, Florida, the son of Dorothy Hancock and Alfred O. Johns Sr. Johns served as pastor of Midway Baptist Church, Palatka1977-1980; First Baptist Church, Welaka, 1982-1986 and First Baptist Church, Satsuma. Johns and his wife Delores have three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ALFRED O. JOHNS, SR.

Alfred O. Johns (1921-1989) was born in Palatka, Florida, the son of Loren and Hortensia Harriet Morse Johns. He served as pastor of Providence Baptist Church, Palatka and Southside Baptist Church, Palatka. He and his wife Dorothy Lafaye Hancock Johns had ten children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

B. F. JOHNS

B. F. Johns served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Okahumpka.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

BONHAM JOHNS

Bonham Johns served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Raiford.

Source: Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

FRED JOHNS

Fred Johns served as pastor of First Black Creek Baptist Church, Penney Farms.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN E. JOHNS

John E. Johns (November 15, 1921-2007) was born in Ozark, AL, the son of Thomas Maxwell and Elizabeth Spires Johns. He served as President of Stetson University (1970-1976) in a very critical time. His entire vocational career had been at Stetson, and he enhanced the ties with the Florida Baptist Convention. Johns had served Stetson as history professor, business manager, and vice president for finance and planning before he became President in 1971. He served as acting president in 1970. Johns served as president of the Florida Historical Society in 1972. Johns put the University in the black with increased endowment and operating funds. Construction and a strengthened athletic program grew in his tenure. Johns resigned in August 1976, to become president of his alma mater, Furman University in South Carolina. He and his wife Martha Mauney Johns had three sons.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

SUE JOHNS

Sue Johns (1949-   ) was born in Marianna, FL. She graduated from Florida State University. Johns served as an associate, Women’s Missions and Ministries Department for the Florida Baptist Convention. She and her husband Bobby Blake Johns have two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

THOMAS MAXWELL JOHNS

Thomas Maxwell Johns (September 22, 1898-October 29, 1977) was born in Headland, Alabama. He married Susie Elizabeth Spires on February 12, 1921. Johns attended high school in Troy, Alabama, and graduated from the University of Florida. Johns taught school in central Florida for ten years. He dedicated himself to caring for needy children and their families through the Florida Baptist Children’s Homes. Johns led in the moving of the Children’s Home from Arcadia to Lakeland in 1945. He introduced the idea of vocational training, casework services, foster care, and family-style cottages at the Children’s Home. Stetson University conferred an honorary doctorate on Johns in 1948. He was a pioneer in innovative ministry with children and their families in the state of Florida. Johns served as Superintendent of the Florida Baptist Children’s Home from July 7, 1932 to June 20, 1968.  Johns served as President of the Florida Baptist Convention in 1965. His son, John Ed Johns, served as President of Furman University. In the Florida Baptist Convention, T. M. Johns was known as one who loved children and desired that they and their families be whole in life and service.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

VERNON JOHNS

Vernon Johns served as a pastor of churches in Florida and Georgia for forty years. He died December 16, 2004, and had most recently served as pastor of Terry Road Baptist Church in Jacksonville. He was the co-founder and president of Jacksonville Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as chaplain of the Jacksonville Police Reserves for 20 years. He and his wife, Ramona, were married 54 years and they had a son, Larry, and a daughter, Gwendolyn.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, January 13, 2005, p. 15.

W. M. L. JOHNS

W. M. L. Johns served as pastor of Pine Barron Baptist Church, Davisville, 1915-1916.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WONDER JOHNS

Wonder Johns (1934-2012) was born on the Brighton Reservation. He was ordained in 1979 by the First Seminole Church, Hollywood, where he served as pastor for 10 years. Johns served as pastor of First Seminole Baptist, Brighton for 12 years. He was the first Indian moderator for the Big Lake Baptist Association and the first Indian to serve on the State Nominating Committee of the Florida Baptist Convention. He and his wife Mary Louise Johns had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

A. J. JOHNSON

A. J. Johnson served as pastor of Tenth Avenue Baptist Church, Tampa.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ANTHONY M. JOHNSON

Anthony M. Johnson (1950-2021) was born in Ponce de Leon, Florida, the son of Charlie and Elna Goode Johnson. He served as pastor of Union Springs Missionary Baptist Church, DeFuniak Springs.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

BILLY JOHNSON

Billy Johnson served as pastor of West Pittman Baptist Church, Westville, 1968-1969.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES JOHNSON

Charles Johnson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Wewahitchka (1970-1972).

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES JOHNSON

Charles Johnson was born in Perry, Florida. He graduated from Valdosta State College, GA., Nova University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida State University, and Luther Rice Seminary. Johnson was licensed by the Pisgah Baptist Church, Perry, FL and ordained by the Pine Level Baptist Church, Live Oak, FL. He served as pastor of Pine Level Baptist Church, Live Oak, 1963-1968; Midway Baptist Church, Madison, 1968-1970; Divonia Baptist Church, Jasper, 1970-1976; Rosemary Baptist Church, Live Oak, 1977-1980; Athens Baptist Church, Lake City, 1981-1990 and First Baptist Church, Hastings. Johnson and his wife Edna Creech Johnson have two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHESTER JACKSON JOHNSON

Chester Jackson Johnson (1894-1956) served churches in Florida and Georgia. He was ordained at Mulberry in 1922. He served as pastor of Florida churches in Sopchoppy, Lake City, and Cross City. He died May 4, 1956, while serving as pastor of Woodland Hills Church in Atlanta, Georgia. Johnson and his wife Pauline Johnson had two children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, May 24, 1956, p. 12.

CODY JOHNSON

Cody Johnson served as pastor of Ferndale Baptist Church, 1953 and First Baptist Church, Minneola, 1955-1960. He and his wife had two daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CONNIE JOHNSON

Connie Johnson died March 4, 1993, after a lengthy battle with cancer. He served as pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church in Green Cove Springs, First Baptist Church in Middleburg, Allandale Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Long Branch in Maxville, Black Creek Baptist Church, Oak Grove Baptist Church, and on two occasions, served as pastor of Clay Hill in Maxville.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, March 4, 1993, p. 8.

D. ARCHIE JOHNSON

D. Archie Johnson served as pastor of Pilgrims Rest Baptist Church, Cottondale.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DAVID JOHNSON

David Johnson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Holt.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

E. D. JOHNSON

E. D. Johnson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Woodville, Corinth Baptist Church, Jasper, and First Baptist Church, Port St. Joe.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

EDWARD D. JOHNSON

Edward D. Johnson (1943-) served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Ocala (1983-2006). He received his Associate of Arts degree from Bluefield College, and also attended East Tennessee State (B.S., 1970), Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (M. Div., 1972) and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (D. Min., 1978). Johnson served as pastor in West Virginia, Tennessee, and Texas before coming to First Baptist Church Ocala in 1983. He served as president of the Florida Baptist Convention in 1992, and has served in many national and state convention committees. Five thousand people joined First Baptist Church Ocala during Johnson’s pastorate and 2,500 of them by baptism.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.
Florida Baptist Witness, June 10, 1993, p. 8; July 3, 2003, p. 11.

EMMETT C. JOHNSON, JR.

Emmett C. Johnson, Jr. (1930-2008) was born in Jackson, TN. He graduated from Baylor University and Southwestern Baptist Seminary. Johnson served as pastor of Lamar Heights Baptist Church of Memphis, TN and First Baptist Church, Sarasota. He and his wife Elizabeth had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

EWELL JOHNSON

Ewell Johnson graduated from the University of Miami and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of churches in Louisiana, Alabama and Florida, including Westwood Baptist Church, Live Oak, 1965-1970 and North Hialeah Baptist Church. Johnson and his wife had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

FLOYD CLIFF JOHNSON

Floyd Cliff Johnson (1913-1980) a native of White Springs served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Mulberry, Dixie Highway Baptist Church in Auburndale, Southside Baptist Church in Wauchula, and Antioch Baptist Church in Bartow. He and his wife, Irene, had two daughters, Alene and Margie, and one son, Floyd Jr.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, April 3, 1980.

FRANK JOHNSON

Frank Johnson was pastor of First Baptist Church in Jacksonville from 1868-1870.

Secondary Source:
Belton S. Wall, Jr. A Tale To Be Told, pp. 102-104.

FREEMAN JOHNSON

Freeman Johnson served as pastor of Olive Baptist Church, Florida Association, 1943.

Source:
Florida Baptist Association minutes 1943, p. 32.

G. J. JOHNSON

G. J. Johnson was born in New York and served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Leesburg and Ancient City Baptist Church from 1894-1896. He died July 7, 1902. Johnson led in building 100 church buildings all over the United States in his pastoral ministry. Ancient City was the 98th of the 100 churches built.

Secondary Source:
The Long Road with God. . . a Living History of Ancient City Baptist Church 1887-1987, pp. 22-24.

G. W. JOHNSON

G. W. Johnson served as pastor of Corinth Baptist Church, Jasper, 1954-1955.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GARY L. JOHNSON

Gary L. Johnson served as pastor of Wayside Baptist Church, Miami. Prior to coming to Miami, Johnson was the pastor of several churches in Illinois
and Florida.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GUS JOHNSON

Gus Johnson served as pastor of Five Points Baptist Church, Fernandina Beach, 1971-1975.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GUSTAVE E. JOHNSON

Gustave E. Johnson (1913-2003) was a native of Bunnell. He attended Pierson High School, Haddock’s Business University, and Jacksonville. He served the Florida Baptist State Convention in the Sunday School Department, and as director of Assemblies, Promotion and Public Relations from 1954 to 1961. During World War II, Johnson served in the United States Navy. Johnson is best known to Florida Baptists in the role of executive secretary-treasurer of the Florida Baptist Foundation where he served for 28 years, from 1962 to 1981. Johnson died at age 90. He was survived by his wife, Gena.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, May 1, 2003, p. 4.

HAROLD JOHNSON

Harold Johnson served as pastor of Leon Ebenezer Baptist Church, Leon County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

I. C. JOHNSON

I. C. Johnson served as pastor of First Black Creek Baptist Church, Penney Farms.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. W. JOHNSON

J. W. Johnson died in 1909 after serving as pastor for a number of years in Jackson County, Florida including Orange Hill Baptist Church, Concord Baptist Church, Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, Bethesda Baptist Church, Ephesus Baptist Church, Pilgrims Rest, Cottondale, and Poplar Springs Baptist Church.

Secondary Source:
West Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1910, p. 18.

J. W. JOHNSON

J. W. Johnson served as a pastor in Florida and died in 1911.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1911, p. 83.

J. W. JOHNSON

J. W. Johnson served as pastor of Midway Baptist Church, Plant City, 1902-1910 and was the first pastor of Cedar Grove Baptist Church, Keysville (near Plant City) in 1907. He died in Keysville in 1915.

 Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. W. JOHNSON

J. W. Johnson served as pastor of Lady Lake Baptist Church, 1945-1946.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. W. JOHNSON

J. W. Johnson served as the first pastor of Midway Baptist Church, 1961 and Oakland Baptist Church, both in Taylor County. He was married to Audrey Johnson.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES W. JOHNSON

James W. Johnson served as pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, Lake City.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JEREMY JOHNSON

Jeremy Johnson is a native of Gainesville and served four years in the United States Army. He is a graduate of the Baptist College of Florida and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (2013). In 2014, Johnson became pastor of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in DeFuniak Springs. He and his wife Sabrina have two daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, May 22, 2014, p. 4.

JIMMY JOHNSON

Jimmy Johnson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Conway.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOE LESLEY JOHNSON

Joe Lesley Johnson (May 27, 1925- ) was born in Highland City, Florida. He was the son of Boen Colon Johnson and Amy Mae Darley Johnson. His father was a citrus grower in central Florida. Johnson had one sister, Minnie Virginia. Johnson was raised in Haines City (1927-1953), and graduated from Haines City High School in 1946. He attended Stetson University (B.A., 1949), and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (B.D., 1956). He married Mary Hazel Jones on December 23, 1946, at Auburndale, Florida. They had one son, Joe Lesley Jr., who was born June 30, 1956. Johnson served in the United States Navy in World War II, and later worked as a public school teacher and a mail carrier. Johnson was converted at age 14, and was baptized into the Eastside Baptist Church of Haines City. He later served as pastor of Eastside Baptist Church (1946-1953), Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Brookhaven, Mississippi (1953-1956), and Land-O-Lakes Baptist Church in Land-O-Lakes, Florida.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN JOHNSON

John Johnson is a graduate of the University of Central Florida and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has served churches in Ohio and Georgia and in 2007 became pastor of Northwest Baptist Church in Gainesville. He and his wife Ruth Ann have two sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 16, 2007, p. 11.

JOHNNY JOHNSON

Johnny Johnson served as pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, Daytona Beach, 1980-1982.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

KEITH JOHNSON

Keith Johnson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Jasper.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

L. B. JOHNSON

L. B. Johnson (1879-1972) served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Umatilla, Main Street in Leesburg, and the Bradley Baptist Church. He taught Old Testament at Baptist Bible Institute in Lakeland, Florida.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, July 13, 1972, p. 6.

L. G. JOHNSON

L. G. Johnson served as pastor of West Pittman Baptist Church, Westville, 1950.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

LINDA F. JOHNSON

Linda F. Johnson (1958-   ) was born in Vinita, OK. She graduated from Oklahoma State University and did seminary studies in Orlando, FL. Johnson served as regional director, special mission ministries, in East Central, Florida under the missionary associate appointment by the Home Mission Board. Previously she served as a resort missionary in Orlando, FL and was a US-2 missionary. Johnson and her husband Lloyd E. Johnson married in 1989.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MYRON JOHNSON

Myron Johnson served as the first pastor of First Baptist Church, Destin.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RABURN J. JOHNSON

Raburn J. Johnson (1917-1964) served churches as pastor in the Jacksonville area for 28 years. Johnson served as pastor of Five Points Baptist Church, Fernandina Beach, 1952. Johnson was called by Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church to serve as pastor of Atlantic Boulevard Baptist Mission located in Brookview. He was pastor of Marietta Church at the time of his death. Johnson and his wife, Ida Lee Johnson, had one son and two daughters.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, November 5, 1964, p. 8.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RAY JOHNSON

Ray Johnson (1942-) graduated from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor at Newberry and Pahokee before becoming pastor of First Baptist Church in Titusville in 1980. He also has served as chaplain of the Titusville Police Department. He and his wife Jeannine had three daughters. Johnson celebrated 30 years as pastor of First Baptist Church, Titusville in 2010.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, May 1, 1980, p. 6; July 29, 2010, p. 9.

REGINAL JOHNSON

Reginal Johnson was pastor of North Miami Baptist Church in 1936.

Source:
1936 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 6.

SAMUEL C. JOHNSON

Samuel C. Johnson (November 10, 1821-February 10, 1900) was born on a farm north of Evergreen, Alabama. He was the son of William Burton Johnson (1790-1846) and Elizabeth Parker (1794-1870). Johnson was converted at age 18, and attended Evergreen Academy and Howard College. He enlisted in the Texas First Regiment, and served in the Mexican War (1846). Johnson married Mary Stanley Thompson of Georgia on August 14, 1848. She died, and he married Nancy E. Stills. He served as a preacher and teacher in Santa Rosa and Escambia Counties. He served as pastor of Coon Hill and Mitchell’s Creek. In September 1872 he was one of the four ministers who organized Elim Baptist Association. He later served as pastor at Elim and Sardis in Escambia County. Johnson moved to Texas in 1880, and preached and farmed in Shelby County. He died in 1900 while serving as pastor at Burke in Angelina County.

Secondary Source:
Judith Richbourg Jolly. Rev. Samuel C. Johnson.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

SHAWN JOHNSON

Shawn Johnson (1972-) graduated from the University of Florida (1995, B. A.). He went as pastor to First Baptist Church, Dowling Park in 1999. Johnson
married his wife Susie in 1995. They have a daughter Rebecca.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

VAUGHN M. JOHNSON

Vaughn M. Johnson (1908-1973) served as pastor of Fifth Avenue Baptist Church in Saint Petersburg for 28 years (1944-1972). He was a native of Knoxville, Tennessee, and graduated from Carson Newman College and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Stetson College in Florida in 1955. Before going to Saint Petersburg, Johnson served as pastor in Tacoma, Washington; Andersonville, Tennessee; and First Baptist Church, Kissimmee, Florida. He married Kathryn Roach Johnson.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 23, 1973, p. 6.

W. H. JOHNSON

W. H. Johnson served as pastor of Tribley Baptist Church, Pasco County, 1947.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. DICK JOHNSON

W. Dick Johnson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Polk County.

Source: Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM JOHNSON

William Johnson (January 9, 1803-1884) was born in the Barnwell District of South Carolina. His father was William Johnson, brother of Col. Richard M. Johnson, of Kentucky who killed Tecumseh. His mother was the daughter of James Johnson. The father of William died before his birth and his mother died when he was 17. Johnson was made an apprentice in Augusta, Georgia. He received a few months of schooling. Johnson married Permelia Hamilton on February 26, 1824, and they had twelve children. He built a nice estate in South Carolina, and moved to Florida in 1858. His first wife died, and he married Susan Edmonds who lived only a short time. He then married Georgiana Tyson who survived him. Johnson was converted in 1829, and was baptized by Rev. Prescott Bush, and joined the Darien Church in South Carolina. Upon moving to Florida in 1858, he was very active in the Santa Fe River and Alachua Associations. He was pastor at Pleasant Grove, Wa-ca-hoota, Micanopy, Eliam, Paran, Providence, and Ochwilla. At the time of his death he was living at Banana, Florida.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1884, p. 34.
Alachua Baptist Associational Minutes, 1885, pp. 5, 11; 1873, p. 7.

WILLIAM B. JOHNSON

William B. Johnson (1916-2009) served in the United States Army in Germany in World War II. He served as pastor of Golden Glades Baptist Church, in Miami; Citrus Park in Odessa; Oak Grove in Wauchula; and Central Avenue in Lake Wales. Johnson also served as a prison chaplain for 30 years in Florida. He and his wife, Eva had two sons: Harold and Ralph.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 13, 2009, p. 6.

JAMES D. JOHNSTON SR.

James D. Johnston Sr. (1928-2000) and his wife, Marie, served as foreign missionaries to Nigeria for 33 years, from 1958 to 1991. Johnston served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Floral City and Chandler Baptist Church before being appointed as a foreign missionary. He and his wife had two children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, October 19, 2000.

JOHN GRADY ‘JAY’ JOHNSTON

John Grady ‘Jay’ Johnston (1956-   ) was born in New Orleans, LA. He graduated from Louisiana College and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Johnston served as associate, Family Life Department of the Florida Baptist Convention. He and his wife Jerilyn Gaspard Johnston were married in 1981.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN HENRY JOHNSTON

John Henry Johnston (1866-1948) was born October 31, 1886, the son of Jacob Johnston, at Glenville, Georgia. He married Effie Hester Hicks on June 2, 1912. Johnston worked in the phosphate mines. He and his wife lived in Mulberry and he was called to preach in 1922. He was ordained on March 21, 1923, at the age of 36. Johnston served as pastor of Bethany Baptist Church in Myakka City (1944), First Baptist Church in Gillette, and Bee Ridge Baptist Church of Sarasota.

Secondary Source:
A. O. Hendry, Bethany Baptist Church 1888-1988, p. 63-64.

PINKNEY LESLIE JOHNSTON

Pinkney Leslie Johnston (1884-1957) served as editor of the Florida Baptist Witness from 1928 to 1930. He had served as church editor of the Miami Herald before he came to the Witness staff. After leaving the Witness he served on the advertising staff of the Christian Index.

Secondary Source
Florida Baptist Witness, December 12, 1957, p. 13.

J. H. JOHNSTONE

J. H. Johnstone (February 29, 1852-May 7, 1897) was born in Edinburgh, Scotland. He was educated in Scotland, and came to the United States in 1872. He was baptized into the fellowship of Tremont Temple Church, and this church later licensed him to preach. He studied at Newton Theological Seminary, and was ordained at the Neponset Avenue Baptist Church on December 15, 1885. He came  to the Palatka area due to his health, and served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Palatka from 1889 to 1892. Johnston married Esther A. Winters at Dundee, New York, and both of them were greatly admired in Palatka. Johnston served as pastor at Palatka a second time (1896-1897), and died at the parsonage May 7, 1897.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.
Lora Sinks Britt, A Century for Christ, pp. 8-9.

BARRY JOINER

Barry Joiner graduated from The Baptist Bible College of Florida, Graceville. He served as pastor of West Pittman Baptist Church, Westville, 2000-2002 and Darlington Baptist Church Westville. Joiner and his wife Diane have one son, Samuel.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CURTIS JOINER

Curtis Joiner served as pastor of Stump Springs Baptist Church, 1990-1992.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DANNY JOINER

Danny Joiner served as pastor of Central Avenue Baptist Church, Lake Wales.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

EDWARD EARL JOINER

Edward Earl Joiner (April 25, 1924-August 2, 1997) was born near Colquit, Georgia. He was one of seven children in a tenant farm family. There were four boys and three girls in the family. His brother Hilton was killed in World War II in the Pacific Islands. Earl Joiner was an Army veteran in the War. He studied at Biarritz American University in Biarritz, France, right after the war. Joiner attended Stetson University (A.B.) and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (B.D., Th.M., and Th.D.). Joiner married Geraldine Rouse of Albany, Georgia, and they had four children: Eddie, Paul, Ann, and John. Joiner served as pastor at Aster Baptist Mission in Aster, Florida (1947-1949), Harrods Creek Baptist Church in Brownsboro, Kentucky (1950-1955), Beulah Baptist Church in Georgetown, Florida (1966-1986), and also served in 20 interim pastorates. Joiner was a preacher, pastor, professor, teacher, writer, historian, and ethicist. He taught at Stetson University for 37 years (1955-1992), and served as chairman of the Department of Religion (named in 1981). Joiner was loved by Florida Baptists for his Sunday School writings, historical research, and wide preaching engagements. As a veteran of General George Patton’s 3rd Army Division in World War II, he never forgot the Holocaust impact and was a scholar on those tragic events. Joiner was best known to Florida Baptists as the author of A History of Florida Baptists, and Florida Baptist Children’s Homes: A History of Caring. He served as Curator and Secretary of the Florida Baptist Historical Society from 1973 to 1997.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JESSIE JOINER

Jessie Joiner served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Ellenton and West Pittman Baptist Church, Westville, 1981-1982.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. W. JOINER

R. W. Joiner served as pastor of First Baptist Church, High Springs.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. D. JOLLEY

W. D. Jolley died in 1893. He served as pastor of the Apopka Church in the Wekiva Association.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1894, p. 40.

JUDITH LEE RICHBOURG JOLLY

Judith Lee Richbourg Jolly (1942-) was born in Clearwater, Florida. She attended St. Petersbury Jr. College (A. A., 1961) and married Lawson E. Jolly, Jr., in 1962. Lawson and Judy served as SBC missionaries in Costa Rica and have served together as pastor and wife for over 50 years. Jolly is a member of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution and numerous other historical organizations. She has served on the Florida Baptist Historical Society Board of Directors and served as chair on two occasions. She was awarded the FBHS Heritage Award in 2010. She is best known to Florida Baptists for her professional research and writing. She has written over 70 ministerial biographical sketches and 50 church historical profiles. The Jolly’s have three children: Jennifer, Lawson III, and David.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

LAWSON E. JOLLY. JR.


Lawson E. Jolly, Jr. (1934-2018) was born in Stone Mountain, Georgia and is the son of Lawson Jolly and Thelma Louise McCurdy. Jolly was called to preach in 1956 and graduated from Baylor University (B.A., 1958) and Candler School of Theology (M. Div.). He served as pastor in Texas and Georgia and at Clearwater, Miami and Dade City in Florida. Lawson married Judith Lee Richbourg in 1962 and they served as Southern Baptist missionaries to Cost Rica. In 1991 Jolly became the Director of the Pensacola Bay Baptist Association and retired from this work in 1999. Since that time he has had an active preaching and interim ministry. Jolly authored four book and numerous articles. He and his wife Judith have three children: Jennifer Rothschild, Lawson III, and David.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

A. W. JONES

A. W. Jones was not in active service at the time of his death, but he had lived in the Alachua Association. The 1881 Alachua Associational Minutes state that Jones was an able defender of the Baptist cause.

Secondary Source:
Alachua Associational Minutes 1991, p. 6.

ALEXANDER SMITH JONES

Alexander Smith Jones (-1955) served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Branford.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, February 24, 1955, p. 15.

B. G. JONES

B. G. Jones served as pastor of Union Baptist Church, O’Brien.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

BENJAMIN CLAYTON JONES

Benjamin Clayton Jones (January 17, 1924-January 2, 2020) was born in Pierson, Georgia. He has one of the most remarkable pastoral records of any Southern Baptist pastor who has ever served. He has served as pastor of the same church for 58 years and still counting. He is pastor of the West Park Baptist Church in Jacksonville. Jones worked at the Seaboard Railroad facility in Jacksonville when he was saved under the witness of fellow employee Gene Johnson. His call to preach came shortly thereafter and he soon became pastor in Jacksonville. Jones states that a Godly mother greatly influenced him and he and his wife, Sue, were married for 63 years. Sue died at age 81 on May 5, 2005. They were partners in ministry. They have three children; Franklin, Daisy, and Linda. Jones received a diploma from Southern Bible Institute and Seminary in Atlanta and was one of the first students at Luther Rice in Jacksonville.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society interview.

BERNARD JONES


Bernard Jones (1938-2013) was born in Brewton, AL the son of Arthur Wilson and Urna Gertrude Peppers Jones. He served as pastor of Salem Baptist Church in Tampa for 29 years. He and his wife Rozita Fletcher Jones had one son.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, December 18, 2003, p. 10.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES B. JONES

Charles B. Jones (1798-1879) was born on Wilmington Island, SC. Jones  served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Savannah before moving to Florida. He served as a missionary of the Northern Home Mission society, preaching in Palaka and the surrounding country. Some of his pastorates included New Providence Church in Marion County, Peniel, Palatka, First Baptist, Ocala, and First Baptist Church, Micanopy.

Source:
Cathcart, Baptist Encyclopadia, Volume 1, p. 610.
Alachua Baptist Association Minutes, 1856, p. 14.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DARRELL JONES

Darrell Jones is a native of Palatka. He was ordained in 2005, by the Cedar Grove Baptist Church, Perry. Jones served as pastor of Cedar Grove Baptist Church, Perry and Lakeside Baptist Church, Perry. He and his wife Sara have two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DON JONES

Don Jones graduated from Gulf Coast Community College, University of West Florida, and Florida State University. He became pastor of First Baptist Church in Lynn Haven in 1980.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, February 7, 1980, p. 6.

DOUGLAS JONES

Douglas Jones served as pastor in Ohio, Michigan, and Tennessee before going as pastor of Salerno Road Baptist Church in Port Salerno in 1980.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, September 18, 1980, p. 6.

EDWARD JONES

Edward Jones served as pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church, Vernon.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

FOREST JONES

Forest Jones served as pastor of Cedar Key Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

FREDERICK JONES

Frederick Jones moved to First Baptist Church, Pensacola, as pastor in 1898. He and his family moved from Ellenton, South Carolina, to Pensacola. He served in Pensacola from 1898 to 1905. He died in Pensacola in 1917.

Secondary Source:
Toni Moore Clevenger. On the Bay—On the Hill, pp. 122-128.
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1917, p. 67.

GEORGE L. JONES, JR.

George L. Jones, Jr. served as pastor of Parkview Baptist Church, Ft. Pierce.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GILBERT E. JONES

Gilbert E. Jones (1863-1956) lived to be 93 years of age. He was born near Rome Georgia. Jones served as a Baptist minister for nearly 70 years. He served as pastor of churches in Alabama, Georgia, and Florida including Ephesus Baptist Church, Hilliard, First Baptist Church, Macclenny, Yulee Baptist Church, and Hogan Baptist Church, Jacksonville. Jones organized Parkland, Wesconnett, and Grand Park churches in Duval County. He also organized the St. George Baptist Church. He preached his last sermon on May 20, 1956, at Folkston, Georgia, where he had once served as pastor. He died September 27, 1956, in Jacksonville, Florida. Jones’ wife Laura died on August 15, 1939 while they were serving at Hogan Baptist Church. One year later he married Mrs. Lillian Allen. He had four daughters.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, October 11, 1956, p. 12.
History of Ephesus Baptist Church, Hilliard, p. 13.
History of Hogan Baptist Church, p. 31.

HAROLD JONES, JR.

Harold Jones, Jr. served as pastor of Pasadena Baptist Church, St. Petersburg, 1995-2009.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

HENRY JONES

Henry Jones graduated from Baptist Bible Institute. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Raiford; First Baptist Church, Sopchoppy; and Peniel Lighthouse, Palatka, 1970-1974.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. HENLEY JONES

J. Henley Jones served as pastor of Pinewood Park Baptist Church and Broadmoor Baptist Church. He served as a chaplain in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. R. JONES

J. R. Jones (1817-1852) was born in Wilkerson County, Georgia, and was ordained at the Mount Ararat Church, Stewart County, Georgia, in 1843. Jones served as pastor of the Sardis Church in Jackson County (established in 1825) for a number of years and was preaching for the church in Apalachicola at the time of his death.

Secondary Source:
West Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1852, p. 16.

J. R. JONES

J. R. Jones (1817-1852) was born in Wilkerson County, Georgia. He was ordained to the gospel ministry in the Mount Ararat Church of Stewart County in 1843. For some years he was pastor of the Sardis Church, and was preaching at the Apalachicola Church in the West Florida Baptist Association at the time of his death.

Secondary Source:
West Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1852.

JAMES R. JONES

James R. Jones (December 3, 1926-May 14, 2003) was born in Warren, Arkansas, to Neal Otis and Bessie Bennett Jones. James Deac Jones attended school in Warren and Crockett, Arkansas, and then graduated from Murphy High School in Mobile in 1945. He attended Spring Hill College in Mobile (B.S., 1959), and graduated from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (M.R.E., 1963; Ed.D., 1971). Jones married Carolyn Church Jones in August 1947. They have one child, Robert Allan, born in 1952. Jones served at Oak Park and First Baptist Church in New Orleans as Minister of Education. He served on the faculty of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, and served the Louisiana Baptist Convention in the department of Church Training for over eight years. He served in World War II in the Maritime Service and the U.S. Army Air Force. Jones and Carolyn were a team who were loved and appreciated in their work of religious education. Jones served on the faculty of Baptist Bible Institute from 1974 until his retirement.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN PAGE JONES

John Page Jones (April 9, 1894- ) was born in Havana, Cuba. He came from a long and distinguished line of Baptist preachers. His father was E. Pendleton Jones of Nassawadox, Virginia, and his grandfather was the renowned J. William Jones of Civil War fame. Jones was educated at Newberry College, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Crozer Theological Seminary. He was a lieutenant of artillery in France during World War I. He became pastor of First Baptist Church in Clermont on June 1, 1927 and served as pastor of Grace Baptist Church, Clermont.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 18, 1927, p. 12.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOSEPHINE PROCTOR JONES

Josephine Proctor Jones (September 4, 1902-December 3, 1974) was born at Lancaster, Kentucky. She was the daughter of Joseph and Susan Pittman Jones. She grew up on a small farm in Danville, Kentucky. Jones attended Center College in Danville, Kentucky where she received the A.B. degree in 1925. She then went to the W.M.U. Training School at Louisville, Kentucky and received her M.R.E. in 1927. Jones worked with the Woman s Missionary Union in Alabama, Kentucky, and Illinois. She then served as the Executive Secretary of the Florida WMU from 1944 to 1967. She and John Maguire worked alongside each other for 23 years in Florida Baptist work. Jones saw the expansion of WMU work to include 5,500 mission units with 80,000 members.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.
Florida Baptist Witness, December 12, 1974.
Martha Trotter, Faithful Servants.

KENNETH R. JONES

Kenneth R. Jones is a native of California. He serves as pastor of Glendale Baptist Church, Miami.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

L. N. JONES

L. N. Jones served as pastor of Pilgrims Rest Baptist Church, Cottondale.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society.

LLOYD E. JONES

Lloyd E. Jones served as pastor of Lake Carroll Baptist Church, Tampa and North Central Baptist Church, Gainesville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MICHAEL JONES

Michael Jones served as pastor of Pleasant Home Baptist Church, Holt.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

OTIS T. JONES

Otis T. Jones served as pastor of Ephesus Baptist Church, Hilliard and Union Baptist Church, O’Brien.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

P. M. JONES

P. M. Jones served as state evangelist for the Baptist Board of Missions for the state of Florida, 1910-1911 and as pastor of First Baptist Church, Cottondale (1913-1919) and First Baptist Church, Malone, (1917-1920).

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

PAUL JONES

Paul Jones served as pastor of West Pittman Baptist Church, Westville, 1962-1964.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. H. JONES

R. H. Jones served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Fernandina Beach.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. T. JONES

R. T. Jones served as pastor of First Baptist Church of Seabreeze (now Calvary Baptist Church), Daytona Beach.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. W. JONES

R. W. Jones served as pastor of First Baptist Church, High Springs, 1890.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT JONES

Robert Jones served as pastor of the First Baptist Church, Cocoa.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RONNIE JONES

Ronnie Jones served as pastor of Ray’s Chapel, 1982-1985.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

SIDNEY JONES

Sidney Jones served as pastor of Millview Baptist Church (now Blue Angel), Escambia County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

STEVE JONES

Steve Jones served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Oak Hill, 1998-2000.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

TED JONES

Ted Jones served as pastor of Fellowship Baptist Church, Ocala.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

TEDDY JONES

Teddy Jones is a native of Putnam County, Florida, the son of Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Jones. He served as a lay preacher in New York before returning to Florida. He was licensed by the First Baptist Church, Hastings and ordained by the First Baptist Church, San Mateo. Johns served as chaplain of Putnam County Jail. He and his wife Dorothy Blackburn Jones have one daughter.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

THEODORE JONES

Theodore Jones (1913-1976) served as pastor of First Baptist Churches in Crystal River and Key West. He served as pastor of West Bradenton Baptist Church, Oak Park Church in Archer, Haywood Cates Church in Tallahassee, and churches in Trenton and Mayo. Jones was a graduate of Stetson College in Deland, Florida, and Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Georgia. He and his wife, Edith, had one daughter, Grace, and two sons, Ted and Bruce.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, September 16, 1976, p. 6.

W. D. JONES

W. D. Jones (1893-1980) served as the first pastor of Clay Hill Church, Maxville. He served as clerk of Black Creek Association for 33 years. He also served as the historian of the association, and conducted a jail ministry in Green Cove Springs.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, July 31, 1980, p. 6.

W. R. JONES

W. R. Jones served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Boca Grande and Englewood Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM M. JONES

William M. Jones was pastor of First Baptist Church, Dania in 1943 and First Baptist Church, Haileah.

Source:
1943 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 8.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

C. FRANK JORDAN

C. Frank Jordan served as pastor of Knights Baptist Church, Plant City, 1970-1976.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

H. A. JORDAN

H. A. Jordan served as pastor of Eden Baptist Church, Brooksville and Hatch Bend Baptist Church, Branford.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN H. JORDAN

John H. Jordan served as pastor of Pleasant Home Baptist Church, Holt.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT EDWARD JORDAN

Robert Edward Jordan (1865-1927) was born in Georgia. He served in the Jackson County Baptist Association as a licensed minister and a circuit riding preacher.

Secondary Source:
Jackson County Baptist Association Minutes, 1927, p. 26.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

SAMUEL B. JORDAN, JR.

Samuel B. Jordan Jr. (1930-2010) was born in Orlando, Florida, the son of Martha Evelyn Sammons and Samuel B. Jordan Sr. He graduated from Wake Forest University and the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Jordan served as pastor of churches in Kentucky and Florida, including South Miami Heights Baptist Church, Miami, Livingston Baptist Church, Lutz and Southside Baptist Church, St. Petersburg. He and his wife, Drucella Weddle Jordan had two daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

SAMUEL B. JORDAN, SR.

Samuel B. Jordan, Sr. (1889-1983) was a Baptist preacher for 51 years. He served as pastor in Kentucky, Georgia, and Florida. He came to Florida in 1923, and served as pastor at Pine Castle, Clermont, Canal Point, North Hialeah, South Bay Baptist Church, Miami, and South Miami Heights. He and his wife, Evelyn, had two daughters, Doris and Frances, and one son, Samuel B. Jordan, Jr.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, April 21, 1983, p. 6.

T. T. JORDAN

T. T. Jordan served as pastor of Valley Grove Baptist Church, 1954-1955, 1959-1960 and Shockley Springs Baptist Church, Baker.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM H. JORDAN

In 1867 William H. Jordan was pastor of Oak Grove Church in Miccosoukie. His death was reported in the 1869 Florida Baptist Associational Minutes.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Associational Minutes, 1869, p. 9; 1867, p. 17.

LEROY JOSEPH

Leroy Joseph served as pastor of Millview Baptist Church (now Blue Angel), Escambia County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. F. JOSEPH

W. F. Joseph served as pastor of Ray’s Chapel Baptist Church, 1949-1952.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MARCUS R. JOWERS

Marcus R. Jowers (1924-2000) served in churches in Georgia, Kentucky, and Florida. He served as pastor of Haines City Baptist Church in Florida. He
and his wife, Evangeline, had two daughters, Brenda and Selma, and one son, Keith.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 31, 2000.

WILLIAM F. JOY

William (Billy) F. Joy served as pastor of Woodlawn Baptist Church, Okaloosa County for 12 years. Joy is a graduate of the University of Mobile (1983), and the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div., 1986 and D.Min, 1995.) Joy has been married to Mary Jacque since 1981, and they have three sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CURTIS JOYNER

Curtis Joyner served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Century.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

L. BERT JOYNER

L. Bert Joyner graduated from Mercer University, GA. He served as pastor of Franklin Street Baptist Church, Jacksonville and First Baptist Church, Lake Wales. Joyner and his wife had twin girls.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CARSON JUDAH

Carson Judah served as pastor of Goodhope Baptist Church, Baker.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. S. JUDAH

J. S. Judah (   -1949) served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Havana, First Baptist Church, Blountstown, 1915-1916, Sand Ridge Baptist Church (now Northside Baptist Church, Wauchula), Franklin Street Baptist Church, Jacksonville, 1923-1925, Altha Missionary Baptist Church,1915-1917, First Baptist Church, Bowling Green, and Shady Grove Baptist Church, Grand Ridge, 1910. He and his wife Lula M. Judah had eight children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, April 13, 1939, pp. 8-9.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CLYDE W. JUDSON

Clyde W. Judson was serving as pastor of Good News-Little River Church in Miami in 1980.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 28, 1980, p. 12.

CHARLES JULIAN, JR.

Charles Julian, Jr. was born in Tennessee. He graduated from Cumberland University and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Julian served as pastor of churches in Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida, including Westwood Baptist Church, Live Oak and North Palm Baptist Chapel, Hialeah.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

STEPHEN JULIAN

Stephen Julian (1920-2010) attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and spent most of his over 60 years of ministry in Miami and the Keys. He served as pastor of Highlands Baptist Church in Miami (1955-1970), West Hialeah (1970-1985), First Baptist Church, Marathon (1985-1986), and Frontenac Baptist Church. Julian served as Director of Missions in the Keys from (1986-1995). He and his wife Elizabeth have four children: Archie, John, Miriam and Carolyn.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, June 18, 2009, p. 12; November 25, 2010, p. 7.

JOHN JUMPER

John Jumper (1820-1896) was a full blooded Seminole who was born in the Florida Everglades. He fought against the United States in the Seminole
War. Jumper was moved west in 1839 to the India Territory and was made chief of the Seminole Nation. He remained chief for over 30 years. James
Factor was the first Seminole Indian to profess Christianity. In 1849 Jumper defended him in his beliefs. Jumper was converted in 1854 or 1855 as a
Presbyterian. In 1861 he became a Baptist and joined the Ash Creek Church. He had been baptized by Joho Bemo, a native preacher. Jumper was ordained in July 1865, in the refugee camps by Rev. J. S. Morrow and Dr. H. F. Buckner. He was then pastor of the Spring Town, Oekiwa, and Mekosuk Kyt Churches in the Seminole Nation. Jumper was a beloved chief. He shared wealth and the gospel with his people. He resigned his position as Chief of the Nation to give full time to gospel preaching.

Secondary Source:
History of the Baptist Denomination in Georgia Compendium, 1881, p. 299.
Florida Baptist Witness, March 6, 1913, p. 4.

ROBIN JUMPER

Robin Jumper (April 27, 1959- ) was born in New Albany, Mississippi. He was licensed to preach in 1978, and ordained in 1984 by the Bethel Baptist
Church in Etta, Mississippi. Jumper graduated from high school at the West Union Attendance Center in Myrtle, Mississippi in 1978. He received his
B.A. in 1982 from Mississippi College, and his M.Div. in 1985 and Ph.D. in 1990 from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary .Jumper served as
pastor of Little Bahala Baptist Church in Wesson, Mississippi in 1984 to 1986, Wellman Baptist Church in Bogue Chitto, Mississippi from 1986 to 1992, and First Baptist Church of Stockton, Illinois from 1992 to 1995. Jumper and his wife, Terry, had two children; Mark and Kara. Jumper joined the faculty of the Baptist College of Florida to teach evangelism and missions in 1995.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RAMON JUSTAMANTE

Ramon Justamante, served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Hialeah Spanish speaking congregation. A native of Spain was called to the ministry at age 17 and was ordained at age 22. Justamante attended the Baptist Theological Institute of Uruguay.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

H. RAY JUSTICE, JR.

H. Ray Justice, Jr. served as pastor of Venetia Terrace Baptist Church, Jacksonville. He and his wife Angela Blanchard Justice have three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. J. JUSTICE

J. J. Justice served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Perry, 1922.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.