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.
