Jones, James Austin
3/5/1987
| Reverend James A. Jones was born July 6, 1898, and died March 5, 1987. He was preceded in death by Lou Anna, his devoted wife of fifty-nine years. From this union five children were born; three daughters, Bertha Marbut, Dorothy Moore, Inez Dick; two sons, John Wesley and Frank N. John Wesley and Frank are both United Methodist ministers. Bro. Jones was licensed to preach in 1927 at the age of 29 and his first assignment was a mission church near Alexandria. He walked eight miles to the church every Sunday and received only a few dollars for his first year of preaching. Other appointments served were Mt. Zion, Ville Platte, which he organized, Glenmora Charge, Lecompte, Sterlington, Brownsville in West Monroe, Olla and Gibsland-Oak Grove. He retired in 1964 and spent his remaining years in Gibsland. Bro. Jones did not have the privilege of getting much formal education but he had a tremendous amount of wisdom and practical theology. Much time, was spent studying the Bible and his sermons included many Scripture verses. With him there was no soft-peddling the Gospel and no compromise with what he believed were the truths of God’s Word. He knew how to put great truths into simple language which everyone could understand. When people called him an old-fashioned preacher, he felt complimented. He called himself a “Country Preacher.” His wholesome sense of humor, his caring, compassionate spirit, his strong love for others, his sharing the troubles and joys of his congregations and his self-giving concern caused him to be appreciated and loved by those to whom he ministered. The fact that eighteen persons went into the ministry under his leadership is one indication of the remarkable success of his ministry. Bro. Jones died the way he wanted to die, quietly at his own home, with dignity and with all his mental faculties. He was nearly eighty-nine years of age and seemed to welcome the opportunity to move on to inherit the joys of the heavenly kingdom. Though he has passed from among us, he will continue to speak and bring enrichment and inspiration through his influence and example to those who knew him. |
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| Source: Journal Louisiana Conference, 1987; p. 316-317 By Robert L. Peyton | |
