John Thomas Gaines, Sr.

A devoted minister, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, Reverend John Gaines, Sr. peacefully departed this life on Friday, December 13, 2025, in the privacy of his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was 79 years old.

Reverend Gaines was born on July 19, 1946, in Woodville, Mississippi, to the union of the late Ollie Mae Stewart Gaines and Mose Leon Gaines. From an early age, he accepted Christ and was baptized, laying the foundation for a life devoted to faith, service, and exceptional character.

Affectionately known as “JT” to his family and friends, Reverend Gaines was a smart and hardworking individual whose commitment to his community was evident in all his endeavors. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Army. Following his military service, he dedicated several years of his professional life to the Louisiana School for the Deaf, where he worked until declining health necessitated his retirement.

Reverend Gaines was a faithful and active member of Pleasant Green Baptist Church Number One, where he served as Associate Minister beginning in 2020 under the leadership of Pastor Jeffery Foster. His ministry brought comfort, guidance, and inspiration to all who were blessed to know him.

He was united in holy matrimony to the late Evangelist Brenda Gaines, and their blessed union produced six children. Together, they built a legacy of love, faith, and kindness that will be cherished for generations to come.

Reverend Gaines was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Evangelist Brenda Gaines; his daughter, Denise Gaines; his parents, Ollie Mae and Mose Leon Gaines; and his brothers, Gilbert Gaines, James Gaines, and Arthur Lee Gaines. He also mourned the loss of six grandchildren: Jacque Jones, Willie Gaines, Rogerick Johnson, Diamond Gaines, Jyran Gaines, and NASA Drewery.

He leaves to cherish his memory and continue his legacy four sons, John Gaines, Jr. (Stephanie), Marcus Gaines (Lisa), Demetrious Gaines, and Johnathan Gaines; one daughter, Delia Brady (Michael); one brother, Larry Gaines; and two sisters, Sandra Gaines and Sylvia Miller (Percy). His enduring spirit lives on through his seventeen grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

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