Jesse Johnson, Deacon at Star of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Ossining, Passes at 91

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not on to thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall

direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Jesse Johnson was born on June 18, 1930, in Darlington County, South Carolina, to the late Clayton Johnson and Queen Evans Johnson. He was the fourth of nine siblings. After an extended illness, God softly whispered, “Jesse Johnson, my Good and Faithful Servant, come home.” And, Jesse heard and heeded His voice.

Jesse was educated in the public-school system of South Carolina. Guided by God, Jesse moved to Baltimore, Maryland, where he met and married the love of his life, Helen Grace Brown on August 14, 1954. The next year Jesse and Helen moved to New York, where he worked several jobs, to support their growing family of five. He was eventually blessed with a full-time position with the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA), New York City, where he worked diligently as a bus driver, then an Engineer on the #2 train until he retired in 1993.

Jesse was soft spoken but had a prominent presence. He listened and observed those around him and then spoke with wisdom and integrity. He is remembered for his love of vast music, his skills, moral compass, spirit of service, passion for softball and taking long walks. Jesse loved to host large cookouts because it meant that his family was together. Jesse’s love for God and family prompted him to organize the bi-annual “Johnson Family and Friends Reunion.” Family meant everything to him.

Jesse was a man of God. He accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of his life at Star of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Ossining, NY, under former pastor, Bishop Andy C. Lewter, Jr. In his close walk with God, Jesse was an active member and served on the Trustee Ministry, Ushers Ministry and as the patron for the Junior ushers. He was ordained a Deacon under former pastor Reverend Sherman Tribble. Additionally, Jesse joyfully served as a steward to the late Reverend Arthur L. Lewter. He was known by all as a peacemaker. Jesse’s favorite hymns were I Will Trust in the Lord, Jesus is Real to Me, and Order My Steps in Your Word. His favorite scripture was Proverbs 3:5,6 which guided his steps throughout his life.

Jesse leaves behind his loving family and friends who will forever cherish his memory. He is survived by his loving wife Helen, his children: Michael Van (Nellie), Carneal, Dwight, Charon (Bernard), Kenrith(deceased), nine grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild, his brother, Dossy (Christine), his sister, Minister Anna Carter-Smith, his god-daughter Zanetta Smith, and a host of phenomenal nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.