Johnny Wince

Reflection on a Life of Faith and Devotion
As we gather to bid farewell to a man whose very essence was interwoven with faith and
kindness, we reflect on the legacy left by a father, a husband, a brother, and a friend. Mr.
Johnny, Dad, or Johnny Wince, as he was affectionately known, stood as a beacon of God’s love,
shining his light through acts of generosity and unwavering devotion to the Lord.

A God-fearing man, he walked in his faith with the confidence of one who truly understood the
grace upon which he stood. His love for people was not just spoken but actively demonstrated.
Whether he was sharing his time with those in nursing homes, assisting neighbors in his
community, or bringing joy to children with simple treats, his generosity with what he possessed
knew no bounds.

To his cherished wife, Elmore Wince of 53 years, he was a rock—a provider, partner in faith and in life.
Together they prayed continuously for their family embracing three daughters: Yvette Wince-
Gary, Shareka Smith, Janesha Brown; seven sons: Demetris Cox, Craig Miller, Jaton Wince,
Jermaine Wince, Phernando Wade, Lance Weatherspoon, Jarrod Brown; 29 grandchildren and 5
great grandchildren. He instilled in them the values that shaped his own life. He raised his
children to honor God, to be diligent in their work, to give generously, and to live a life
unburdened by debt, save for the enduring debt of love owed to one another.

His favorite line, “Thank God for Jesus,” was more than a saying; it was the outpouring of a
heart eternally grateful for salvation. His responses to daily greetings were not just words but
reflections of his worldview: “Both hands,” signifying his readiness to serve; “God,”
acknowledging the source of all wisdom; “Time,” reminding everyone of the precious, fleeting
moments we are granted.

Mr. Johnny’s prayer life was as steadfast as his character. Often found in a posture of prayer, he
would drift off to sleep on his knees, a humble servant seeking communion with his Creator until
his final moments of rest.

His love of the outdoors was a testament to his appreciation for God's creation, and he reveled
in the simple pleasures of life—cooking for his family and friends was one of the many ways he
expressed this love. His grilled game meats, fried turkeys, Kool-Aid pickles, and homemade
pound cakes were more than food; they were extensions of his hospitality and love.

A man of parables, his life lessons were woven into the fabric of everyday conversations,
imparting wisdom through stories and a humor that could uplift even the weariest of souls. His
straight-to-the-point disposition meant that you always knew where he stood, and his counsel
was both cherished and respected.

He leaves behind a family that includes not only his immediate loved ones but also his three
sisters: Ida Holt, Camille Marshall, Jeanette Wince, four brothers: Lonnie Wince, Freddie Wince,
Rudolph Wince, Sylvester Wince, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and community that saw
him as much more than a brother, kinfolk, and neighbor. As we reflect on his life, we are reminded that the true measure of a man is not in the wealth he accumulates but, in the love, he spreads and the faith he exemplifies.

Today, as we say our earthly goodbyes, we are comforted by the knowledge that Mr. Johnny's
life was a testament to his favorite line. In our hearts, we echo his words with reverence and
hope: “Thank God for Jesus.” And in his memory, we strive to live with both hands ready to
serve, to remember God in all our doings, and to be ever mindful of the time we must make a
difference in this world.

His life was a sermon of actions more eloquent than words, and though he will be dearly missed,
the echoes of his life’s message will resonate through generations. Rest well, Mr. Johnny, and
thank you for the love, the laughter, and the lessons.