J. D. Golden

Reverend J. D. Golden of Letcher, Alabama passed away on November 5, 2022, at the age of 93. He was born June 15, 1929 to parents Oscar and Frances Golden. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Vera, son Jim (Lynn) of Cleveland, TN, grandchildren Jonathan (Ashley) of Cleveland, TN and Mary-Sophia Golden of Clarksville, TN, sisters Tina Hollowell (Bud) of Springfield, MO, and Jean Washburn (Ed) of Letcher, AL. He was predeceased by his parents, son Joseph Dwight, and siblings Grace, Marlin, Owel, and Pearl.

He was a veteran of the United States Army, serving both in World War II and the Korean Conflict. He was a glider man, paratrooper, and an expert marksman.

He was a minister in the Church of God for 65 years. He served his church in various capacities including pastor, state overseer over four states, and director of cross-cultural ministries. He retired from active ministry, though would preach anytime he was given the opportunity, in December 2000 as pastor of the Scottsboro Church of God. He was an excellent preacher who combined both wit and wisdom to communicate the Gospel to many.

He enjoyed watching old westerns, playing a good game of golf, and slaughtering his family at mini-golf. The man could putt. But, most of all he enjoyed studying the Bible and was always able to glean a nugget of truth and a different way of looking at things that would bless those he shared them with.