Rev. John Mitchell Ashford, Jr.

Rev. John Mitchell Ashford, Jr., a beacon of faith and a pillar of his community, passed away on December 5, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia. Born on July 7, 1944, in Lee County, Alabama, he was a man whose life was defined by devotion to his family, his church, and his love for working with his hands.

Rev. Ashford was a cherished husband to Ollie H. Ashford for 57 beautiful years. Together, they raised a loving family that includes their children Arlene Cooper (Minister Bruce Cooper), John Mitchell Ashford, III (Tamara), Cornelia Davis (Marvin), Adrian Ashford, Octavia Ashford (David), Corey Ashford, and John Q. Ashford (Latonya). He was a proud grandfather to Joshua, Jason, Jasmyn, Jalen, Sidd, Olivia, Isaiah III, Makayla, Taria, Quinton Bailey, McKenzie, and Emory, and he was blessed to see the birth of many great-grandchildren. His legacy continues through his siblings Dorothy Lewis (the late, Charlie), Helen Williams (Edgar), Shirley Wright (Cornell), Charles Ashford (Annie), Nathaniel Ashford (the late, Patricia), and Vanjual Roberson, as well as several loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Mitchell Ashford, Sr. and Mary Mitchell Ashford, and his siblings Mary Jean Brooks and Frank Ashford.

Before dedicating his life to ministry, Rev. Ashford worked in the textile mill, where he was known for his strong work ethic and his skillful hands. His interests were as humble and grounded as the man himself; he loved fishing and gardening, finding joy in the simplicity of nature and the satisfaction of a day's work. Rev. Ashford was also known for his handy work, often lending his talents to help others and to fix anything that needed repair.

His true calling, however, was serving in the Church ministry at Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church in Motts, Alabama. Rev. Ashford's faith was the cornerstone of his existence, and he lived to embody the love and teachings of Christ. He was a faith-filled man who led by example, inspiring countless individuals with his unwavering commitment to his beliefs and his congregation.

Rev. Ashford's life was a testament to the power of faith, the strength of family, and the value of service to others. His presence was a source of comfort and guidance, and his influence will be felt for generations to come. He was a man who walked in the light of the Lord, and now he rests in the glory of His kingdom.

A funeral service to honor the life and memory of Rev. Ashford on Friday, December 13, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. ET at Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Tommy Davis officiating. Interment will follow at Church of Christ Cemetery in Motts, Alabama. The family will receive friends Thursday, December 12, 2024 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET at Colonial Funeral Home in Phenix City, Alabama.

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