John Henry Washington, Jr.

John Henry Washington, Jr. was born on November 24, 1949, to the late Martha and John Henry Washington, Sr.

He began his religious journey at an early age at the Philadelphia Missionary Baptist Church. He was baptized by the late Reverend C. H. Holmes. While at Philadelphia MBC, he served as a Junior Usher and as a choir member. As he grew, he became the Director of the Junior Usher Ministry, church musician, and deacon.

After serving for many years at Philadelphia MBC, he moved his membership to the St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church. He was accepted and installed as a member of the Deacon Ministry. He later was elected as Chairman of the Deacon Ministry, as which he served until his death.

Besides singing in the choir, Deacon Washington served as the musician for a period of time. His talent as a musician lead him to serve as musician for Philadelphia MBC, St. Mark MBC, Morning Star MBC (Wilmot, AR), Mt. Zion MBC (Pioneer, LA), Ivory Chapel MBC, Evergreen #1 MBC, and Mt. Olive Methodist.

He served as an educator for 43 years in the position of a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and elementary curriculum supervisor. He had nine areas of certification. His Bachelor of Science degree was earned at Grambling State University and his Master of Education from Northeast Louisiana University (currently the University of Louisiana at Monroe) along with his plus 30.

Masonry was an avenue to help spread brotherly love. He joined May 1974. He served as the secretary of Fidelity Lodge #53 under three worshipful masters, a position to which he also held. During his tenure as the Worshipful Master, the lodge grew in membership and recognition. His hard work was recognized and he was appointed as the District Deputy Grand Master for District 13. In addition to his current status as a Past Master and a Grand Lodge Officer, he is a member of Providence Chapter #76 Holy Royal Arch Masons, John Henry Washington, Jr. Council #12 Royal and Select Masters (this council was named in his honor), Theodore Herbert Skinner, Sr. Consistory #174 and Grand Inspector General United Supreme Council (33rd Degree).

Those left to cherish his memory: Deborah, his wife for 38 years; four children, Jermaine Montgomery, Dr. Marquisha Boston (Camron), Talesha Green (Maison), and Joneshia Washington; a sister, Julia Sanders (Jeff); a brother, Bruce Richmond (Edwina); a favorite niece, Tabitha Sanders; and 8 grandchildren, Jamecia Montgomery, Jermariee Montgomery, Taenique Montgomery, Diamond Montgomery, John Montgomery, Niger Madison, Bobby Weeks, and the apple of his eye, Maverick Johntay Green; three great grandchildren, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. There were a number of sons and daughters that were unofficially recognized as his children, as well as his mentee and godson, Dr. Curtis Sanders.

His whole life was directed toward service. He tried to inspire young people to become a success story. If this was achieved, then his living was not in vain.

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