REV. JOHNNY B GIPSON

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

Johnny B. Gipson, affectionately known as “Johnny B.” by family and friends, was born on December 14, 1937, in Overton, Texas, to the late Romney and Arleacy Gipson. At the age of seven, his family relocated to Los Angeles, California, where he received his education and began a journey that would touch countless lives.

A proud graduate of John C. Fremont High School, Class of 1955, Johnny pursued higher education and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. He went on to work as a mechanical engineer for IBM Corporation, where he built a successful career before retiring to pursue his true calling in ministry.

From an early age, Johnny’s life was rooted in faith. He joined Welcome Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor P.R. Purvis, where he first served as a choir director. His musical gifts, combined with his spiritual devotion, led him to form a gospel singing group with five other young men — a group that evolved into the legendary Mighty Clouds of Joy, spreading the message of hope and salvation across the nation.

In 1964, Johnny met the love of his life, Mattie Armstrong. They were united in holy matrimony on April 10, 1965, and shared 60 beautiful years of marriage together. Their favorite song, “Love and Happiness,” perfectly reflected the bond they cherished.

In 1983, after much prayer and contemplation, Johnny accepted his divine calling into ministry. He was licensed and ordained by Pastor Willie T. Gaines of Emmanuel Baptist Church in San Jose, California. His thirst for spiritual knowledge led him to obtain a Master of Divinity from Northern California Bible College and Golden State Theology Seminary.

Throughout his ministry, Johnny served faithfully in numerous roles — Director of Mission, Juvenile Ministry, Prison Ministries, Choir Member, Bible Study Teacher, Sunday School Instructor, Outreach Leader, and New Members Orientation Teacher. He was especially beloved by the children of the church and was instrumental in founding the Children’s Ministry, where he poured his heart into nurturing young souls.

In his final pastoral role, he faithfully shepherded Macedonian Missionary Baptist Church for 19 years until his retirement in 2018. Known for his unwavering declaration that “God is the way, the truth, and the life,” Pastor Gipson inspired generations with his words, wisdom, and walk with Christ.

On Wednesday, April 2, 2025, Johnny B. Gipson peacefully entered his eternal rest, surrounded by his devoted wife and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Romney and Arleacy Gipson; and brothers, Ronald Gipson and Ronnie Lee Gipson.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved wife of 60 years, Mattie Armstrong Gipson; his daughters, Lorraine Gipson of Tucson, Arizona, and Patricia Jacobs of Brentwood, California; his son, John Andrew Gipson of San Jose, California; eight grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Eliza Pratte of Los Angeles, California; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends.

Johnny B. Gipson’s life was a testament to faith, love, and purpose. He walked humbly with God and served with a heart full of grace. His legacy will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

Please continue to keep the family in prayer during this difficult time.

Services of care and comfort entrusted to the caring professionals of Fluker Funeral Home 985 Ossie Davis Parkway, Waycross, Georgia 31501

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