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Orval Shelly Johnston

Funeral service for Mr. Orval Shelly Johnston will be 2 p.m., Thursday, August 26, at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Pavilion, with burial in the church cemetery.

His earthly journey began in Yazoo County Mississippi and then transitioned to the Portals of Glory at the Feet of his Lord early in the morning of Friday, August 20, 2021. Born on February 2, 1938, he and the preverbal Ground Hog were always interested in what the weather would hold. However, Bro. Shelly knew to trust whatever The Lord sent our way. Cloudy health days came on the horizon for him the last few years with a diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndrome immune disorder which led to discovery of stage 4 in cancer in January 2020 generating numerous health issues and treatment needs.

Through life’s early years Shelly (graduated from Benton High School) had a proficient Gospel singing talent, which was evident even to his last days here on earth. Music with a Biblically sound message of redemption through Christ Jesus was his focus. He truly loved to sing and hear 4-part harmony.

Shelly retired from the Jackson Fire Department as Captain. He served in combat, EMT/ambulance services, and his last 8 years in the Fire Prevention Department. Following that 20-year choice to serve, Shelly entered many open doors serving The Lord in music and evangelism ministry. The opportunities included serving as Minister of Music (and Pastor) at various churches across Louisiana and Mississippi, most recently serving over 7 years at Salem Baptist Church, Walthall County until his health began to fail. He and his wife, Irene, traveled and sang together across the country and in foreign missions presenting the Gospel message in revivals, concerts, Bible conferences, camps, etc. Bro. Shelly had a great knowledge of the Bible and cherished his study of The Book of Revelation and Paul’s writings. By Grace we are saved!      

Irene and his family extend our sincere appreciation to the doctors, nurses, technicians, etc. for all of their heart-felt and knowledgeable care of Shelly these past few years including Dr. Steven Liverman, The University of Mississippi Medical Center and Cancer Institute, Radiation Oncology, ENT, Hematology, Pulmonary, Neurological Department, etc. and staff. The precious nurses, aides, therapists and administration of Sta-Home home health and the Hospice Ministries of Brookhaven were so close and brought loving care and expertise through this experience. Innumerable Brothers- and Sisters-in-Christ across the country have extended their love, prayers, and encouragement to us daily. Thank you. Thank you. The race is WON!    

Shelly was born to James Luther and Zuma Parkerson Johnston. He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters: Joyce Guthrie, Sybil Creel and Alice Faye Johnston. He is survived by his wife of almost 39 years, Irene, and sons: Darrell (Melanie), Bob (Michelle), Josh, Jason (Julie), 10 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. Other surviving family members include brothers: Noble (Mae), Colon (Brenda), Herb (special brother-in-law) and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, grands and greats. Also, we sweetly consider his surviving little furry guardians, Mollie and Maggie, who brought him insurmountable puppy-joy for the last 6 years.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to your favorite charity.

7 comments

  • Comment Link Everyone at J-Con Thursday, 26 August 2021 07:32 posted by Everyone at J-Con

    IJ ... Everyone at J-Con feels your sorrow. Prayers for comfort and understanding and accepting God's will.

    Report
  • Comment Link Regena Compton Tuesday, 24 August 2021 15:57 posted by Regena Compton

    Dear Sweet Friend, I'm so sorry to heard of you & your family loss of Shelly. He will always be remembered as one that teaches - not by sermon - but example. Praying and thinking of you during this time..

    Report
  • Comment Link Nancy Berryhill Monday, 23 August 2021 23:06 posted by Nancy Berryhill

    Irene, my very dear friend, I am continuing to pray for you and think about you during this difficult time. I love you very much but, of course, Jesus Christ loves you more.

    Report
  • Comment Link Johnnie Maddox Monday, 23 August 2021 20:33 posted by Johnnie Maddox

    I am so sorry to hear about Shelly. I will always remember him as a nice man with a beautiful voice. He was my dad's(Hugh Johnston) first cousin and sang at his funeral. Irene, my prayers are with you and the family.

    Report
  • Comment Link Jonathan Andrews Monday, 23 August 2021 14:52 posted by Jonathan Andrews

    Love you & your family, Mrs. Irene! Definitely praying for all of you. It has been a joy knowing the two of you for all these years. Again, I love you dearly. We're here for you when you need us.
    Jonathan

    Report
  • Comment Link Gene  Becky Marsalis Monday, 23 August 2021 14:08 posted by Gene Becky Marsalis

    Irene~may the memories you treasure in our heart always comfort you.

    Report
  • Comment Link Raymond McNulty, Retired Jackson Fire Chief Monday, 23 August 2021 13:48 posted by Raymond McNulty, Retired Jackson Fire Chief

    Shelly and I worked on the Jackson Fire Department and The Office of The Fire Marshall. Could not find any nice person as Captain Johnson, an upstanding guy, liked and respected by all. Prayers and peace to his family.

    Report

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