Loren Johnson

Love is patient, love is kind. Love does not envy, is not boastful, is not conceited, does not act improperly, is not selfish, is not provoked, and does not keep a record of wrongs. Love finds no joy in unrighteousness but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Love never ends.

I Corinthians 13:4-8 (HCSB)

Pentecostal Tabernacle International Inc. 18415 NW 7th Ave. Miami Gardens, Florida 33156 November 25, 2017; 10:00 a.m.

Officiant Pastor S. Robert Stewart

LOREN JOHNSON

His Story PROCESSIONAL

The Celebration

Instrumental

PRAISE & WORSHIP Pentab Worship Ministry OPENING REMARKS Pastor S. Robert Stewart PRAYER Mr. Winston Bramwell Snr. HYMN OF PRAISE Congregation How Great Thou Art SCRIPTURE READING Mrs. Racquel Bryan Psalms 23 SONG Mr. Delroy Martin Even If FAMILY TRIBUTES Mr. Aaron Needham-Noel/Mr. Seon Needham-Noel (Sons) Ms. Lorraine Airey (Cousin) Mr. Ryan Johnson (Brother) Ms. Michelle Seale (Niece) SONG Ms. Rose Edwards Because He Lives REMEMBERING A FRIEND Mayor Paulette Burdick (Palm Beach County) Mr. Warner Wilson (Friend) Dr. Mark Rosenberg (Specialist) Elder Christopher Plummer (Ministry Leader) EULOGY Mrs. Beverley Seale (Sister) SONG OF HOPE Pentab Mass Choir He’ll Welcome Me SERMON Pastor S. Robert Stewart PRAYER FOR THE FAMILY RECESSIONAL – OUR HOPE Pentab Worship Ministry He’ll Take Me Through (I’m His, What a Wonderful Feeling)

Songs of Praise & Hope

LOREN JOHNSON

His Story

How Great Thou Art

He’ll Take Me Through

Oh Lord my God When I in awesome wonder Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made I see the stars I hear the rolling thunder Thy power throughout The universe displayed

I’m a glad pilgrim on my way going to glory land Jesus my only hope and stay holdeth me by the hand It is such joy to understand things that I never knew Keeping my promise to the Lord I’m going through

Chorus Then sings my soul My Savior, God, to Thee How great thou art How great thou art Then sings my soul My Savior, God, to Thee How great Thou art How great Thou art

Chorus I’m His, what a wonderful feeling in my soul He’s mine, He’s protecting me from the heat and cold I’ll do whatsoever He bids me I will do I know my redeemer will lead me safely through.

And when I think...

That God, His Son not sparing; Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in; That on the Cross, My burden gladly bearing, He bled and died To take away my sin Chorus When Christ shall come With shout of acclamation And take me home What joy shall fill my heart Then I shall bow With humble adoration And then proclaim My God How great Thou art Chorus

Walking with Jesus all the way singing a happy song Matters not if it’s night or day nothing can lead me wrong Feeling His presence ever near why should I weep or sigh Knowing I have a home in glory by and by.

Chorus Fully believing trusting God, giving Him all the praise Leading me from the paths I trod ever my voice I’ll raise He will be with me to the end comforting with His power And He will be my closest friend in death’s dark hour.

Chorus

LOREN JOHNSON

His Story

Early years with siblings

Military Training

With daughter Nicola (London)

Through the Years

Loren’s Dad

Military Training

Loren the Gardener

LOREN JOHNSON

Through the Years

Men’s Conference (Tennessee)

Seon’s Wedding

Relaxing with Niece and Grandniece

His Story

Faithful Driver

Sierra’s Dedication (Granddaughter)

Apollo

LOREN JOHNSON

His Story

Dedication and Commitment

Loren Calvert Johnson was born on May 22 1951, the second of three children from the union of Renick and Isabella Johnson in the small village of Orange Hill in the Parish of Clarendon, Jamaica. Loren grew up in a loving family environment, where respect for others, good manners and family unity were emphasized. Loren attended ‘Long Look Combined School’ and was a good student who showed an aptitude for gardening at an early age. After the death of his mother at 8 years old, his father migrated to the United Kingdom where Loren later joined him along with his older sister, Beverley and younger brother LeRoy. As a young man, Loren had a sense of adventure, leading him to join the British Army where he was a part of the ‘Royal Green Jackets’ stationed in Yorkshire (England) and Germany.

He also served in Northern Ireland gaining a variety of vocational trades and skills such as long distance driving. He had an excellent work ethic, was highly disciplined and organized.

He later used these skills to develop his own business and was successfully self-employed.

After being discharged from the army, Loren worked for London Transport and British Airways respectively.

Loren disliked the cold British weather so he moved back to Jamaica where he lived for three years before returning to the United Kingdom. Later, Loren made the decision to relocate to Florida. Loren was passionate about his family and so despite the distance, he often made surprise visits to his family at Christmas and birthdays.

Church life was integral in Loren’s early life having grown up in the church. Loren had a strong faith which was a guiding principle throughout his life. Loren loved the Lord and dedicated his life to serving in His Kingdom. Loren was a giver and if he saw potential in others, he would encourage and support with his finances, advice and counsel. So it was with his PenTab church family where Loren dedicated his life to serving others. Likewise, Loren was passionate about gardening and kept an immaculate garden. He often spent many hours attending to his garden and enjoyed giving away produce from his labor.

Loren was known for his driving ministry. He was often responsible for trips to Offerman Georgia, Apostolic camp sites and PenTab Academy trips. Loren cherished participating in these events and assumed his responsibility totally. He deemed it an honor to serve his church family and to be of service in God’s Kingdom.

Loren fought a courageous battle during his illness. He drew strength from knowing his family, friends and church family were praying for him. Loren was not afraid of going home to be with His Lord and would often state “I’m in a good place. I am ready to go home to be with my Lord”.

Loren will be greatly missed by his wife - Audrey and family; sister - Beverley and family; brothers - LeRoy, Ryan, Livinston and their families; nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, his close friends and neighbors.

Thank you Loren for leaving a rich legacy of love, generosity and, of course, service to others.

LOREN JOHNSON

Life

His Story

Life is just a stepping-stone A pause before we make it home A simple place to rest and be, Until we reach eternity.

Everyone has a life journey, A path to take with lots to see God guides our steps along the way, But we were never meant to stay.

Our final destination is a place Filled with love, His majesty and grace.

Today we celebrate the life of a loved one Who has gone before us, the race he has won.

His journey has now ended, His spirit has ascended Claiming the great reward With Jesus, our Lord.

The Family

LOREN JOHNSON

His Story

My Big Brother When we were youngsters, Loren took his responsibility as the older brother seriously, often to the point of annoyance, but there were positive sides to that. Whenever Loren and I were in the same school, I had no fear of the local bullies.

They knew I was Loren`s younger brother and they stayed well clear of me. The result was that my education during those periods was uninterrupted by such circumstances. I regard that as of great importance.

Loren displayed good work ethics at an early age and the indication of a shepherd`s heart in his management of a herd of more than 15 Goats before and after school on a daily basis. He was justifiably very upset when three strayed and were subsequently killed. That was a good example of leadership and empathy to a younger sibling.

We were often separated because of the early death of our mother (when Loren was 8 years of age) and our father`s immigration to the UK shortly after in search of a better life for all of us. During those times we experienced some challenges. The separation and hardships however, were never strong enough to break the sibling bonds and over the years, we developed a growing respect for each other.

Loren cared much about family relationships and had an empathy for wayward youngsters. My daughters were no exceptions. When they stepped out of line, which they frequently did, he would encourage us to be patient and never give up on them. During the time of his illness, whenever we spoke on the telephone, after our greetings his first questions would be enquiry about their wellbeing.

Even on our last visit to see him recently, his greeting was “glad to see you guys and how are the children and grand-children?”

Loren was a person with strength and character and he bore the physical composure that accompanied cancer with courage and faith. He was up-beat to the end. My wife Novia and I were honoured to be of support to Audrey and Loren for three of the last four weeks of his life. We were also encouraged by his sharpness of mind and his certain and quiet assurance that God was in charge of his life and only He could orchestrate the outcome. Loren was not afraid of dying.

There appears to be a thread of a serving heart that runs in the Johnson family; evidenced by our Dad, my sister and of course Loren. He delights in serving God`s church and his Tabernacle. When someone dies, the expression is - R I P; however, if there is any need for service in Heaven, Loren won`t be resting in peace. I am quite convinced that Loren will already be signed-up on the serving team.

I want to say thanks to our Heavenly Father for our brother`s life and a big thank you to all who supported him through this illness. We reserve a very special thank you to the Lord for providing him with such a kind hearted and compassionate wife Audrey, who worked tirelessly to ensure Loren got all the care and attention that was due to him. She is an excellent example to those of us who still have our loved ones, on how to really care in times of uncertainty and sadness. On behalf of my wife – Novia, myself and all members of the family, we salute you Audrey and may the Lord restore your joy many times over for all your kindness to our beloved Loren. Elan [Le`Roy] & Novia

Memories‌ of the way we were

LOREN JOHNSON

His Story

One of my earliest memories of Loren is from our school days. He was always protective of his big sister; no one could touch me and get away with it. All through my life that sense of protection was evident.

I have fond memories of our cruising days which allowed me to see so many wonderful places around the Caribbean.

His generosity extended not just to me and my family but to everyone who knew him.

Despite living in different countries we saw each other as often as we could. Our visits were always special. I remember laughter and good times around the table. Making and eating sweet bread will never be the same.

He was the most laid back, comfortable person to be around. Nothing was too much trouble for him. Even in pain he showed great strength and was an encouragement to others.

My brother was an amazing man; he was loyal, trustworthy, and a man of integrity who never forgot his roots. I will treasure his memory in my heart always.

Bev and Family

LOREN JOHNSON

His Story

Uncle U understanding you were N near and dear to our heart C caring and compassionate too L loving and true E entertaining and educational They say that memories are golden that is true But we never wanted memories we wanted you.

We are glad we met you and made some lovely memories too Our lips can’t speak how we loved you Nor can our heart say how we will miss you.

A golden heart has stop beating and hardworking hands laid to rest God only takes the best.

We will always remember you. Coming to church will not be the same, especially not seeing you nor receiving phone calls or texts. You left a legacy we will preserve. We will never forget that with God’s help, some day we will see you again. Sleep well uncle.

From Niece and Nephew, Sharon and Garth

Our Friend - A Gentle Soul I write this tribute with great sadness over the unimaginable loss of Loren who fought a brave and strong battle for many months. Loren took each day in his stride, never complaining. Through the tiredness he would still smile and held onto his strong faith.

I had the pleasure of meeting Loren more than 10 years ago. It was just wonderful to be part of, and share happy memories of Loren and Audrey exchanging their vows in marriage. Loren cared deeply for his family and was devoted to his wife Audrey. He had strong faith in his Lord and was greatly admired for the way in which he reached out to others. Loren never judged or forced his opinions on anyone. He was a man with great integrity; thoughtful and kind with a gentle soul. Loren loved to travel and God gave him the strength to do so even during his illness. I know there were two things that kept Loren going during his illness - his wife Audrey and the prayers he received from his family, friends near and far, and his church family.

Our family is deeply saddened by Loren’s passing and would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Loren. God said ‘no more’ it’s time for you to come home. Rest in peace Loren. You are gone, but not forgotten.

Until we meet again, Hensley, Sally, Leonie, Chenelle and Jamel.

Memories… light the corners of my mind

LOREN JOHNSON

His Story

LOREN JOHNSON

His Story

You Decorated Our Lives

A beloved husband, father, brother, son-in-law, and friend. You were so many things to so many people, but by all, you were loved!

We are forever grateful for the time we shared and the precious memories that remain. Though we miss you, we are comforted knowing this was just your temporary home along life’s bumpy road. Now no more sickness, no more pain, just everlasting peace. God has called you home to glory where you’ll live eternally. Until we all meet again - Rest In Eternal Peace!

The Needham Family

You Are In Our Hearts Thank you Loren for cherishing our mother and taking such good care of her. We are eternally grateful and appreciate your warm, caring and protective nature towards a mother and her two sons. Thank you for the priceless family memories, as well as the invaluable lessons you taught us about life, love, God, faith and quality of character.

Although you are no longer with us physically, we shall remember you always in our hearts and in our thoughts. Your love will live on through us and the joyous memories of you will remain in our hearts.

We say not in grief ‘you are no more’, but live in thankfulness that ‘you was’!

Until we meet again, may God keep you in the palm of His hands.

Farewell Loren. May you Rest In Eternal Peace.

Aaron & Yanique Needham-Noel; Seon & Erica Needham-Noel

In Joshua’s Words

LOREN JOHNSON

His Story

Sad and happy are the mixed emotions I feel when I think of Uncle Loren…

Grandpa Loren.

We all loved Uncle Loren.

His name, pride, courage, kindness and his passion we will always remember.

Love you Uncle Loren!

LOREN JOHNSON

His Story

Remembering Loren Loren was compassionate, caring, and generous. His appetite for helping the church and others was evident and inspiring. He did it all so willingly!

With respect to our family, Loren developed a special relationship with each of us individually and collectively even before we were members at Pentecostal Tabernacle. The children, now adults, fondly remember their earliest encounter with Loren about ten (10) years ago when he transported them and their friends from the Orange Bowl Chess Tournament to the Tabernacle and back. From that point until his passing, he never failed to inquire about their well-being.

Delroy and Loren bonded on their trips to Offerman, Georgia.

They shared a kindred spirit. Loren delighted in Delroy’s style of singing and Delroy took pleasure in singing to pass the time as they travelled on those long trips.

Our family loved his peaceful, calm, and generous manner.

We have witnessed him trust in his God as he fought illness with bravery, never complaining.

We hate to see him go but we take comfort in the knowledge that whatever God does is all right.

Loren has been a blessing to many of us. We give the Lord thanks for him.

Rest in peace Loren! The Pitters

My Partner A few weeks after Brother Loren Johnson came to Pentecostal Tabernacle we met and became friends. Bro. J, as we call him, was a brother indeed. He was easy-going, compassionate, and kind. He was my travelling partner. We went several places together on church trips. I will miss the good times we shared especially at Apostolic Camp International. He was always sharing and giving away something from his garden.

I have lost a very dear friend and a brother. We had the opportunity to go on a little vacation more than once and he was a good sport. My brother, sleep in Jesus, you have left a legacy of what it means to be a servant for Jesus. If the trees at Offerman, Georgia, could speak, they too would say “well done Bro. Johnson.”

Sis Audrey, our fellowship continues and prayers continue to go up for you and the rest of the family. Bro. J, see you at the feet of Jesus my brother. Neville Williams

A Good Man

LOREN JOHNSON

His Story

On this day I would like to pay tribute to Bro. Loren Johnson.

A great man who impacted my life and who I had the privilege of getting closer to during his time of sickness. I consider myself blessed to have had his friendship. He was a good man in whom I witnessed a very kind and giving heart, a hardworking man who loved God and His Kingdom, and one who loved and cared for his wife and family.

Bro. Johnson was not afraid of death because he knew his destiny. I have missed seeing him every Sunday morning greeting everyone with that kind and respectful smile, but I have a hope in Jesus that I will see my friend again.

The book of Proverbs says: ‘Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing’. Bro. Johnson was a blessed man to have his wife Audrey by his side during one of the most difficult times of his life. Thank you Sis. Johnson for loving and caring for him the way you did and for setting an example that others should follow when we vow at an altar ‘until death do us part’.

Carmen and Jose Paez

Brother Jay – A Friend I thank God for the memories of the times that I spent with Brother Jay. He was truly a friend; someone you could talk to when times were rough or even when they were smooth. Our time together while working in ministry was priceless and those are what I will cherish the most.

I received a call recently and the name on my phone’s screen was ‘Loren Johnson’ and a huge smile came to my face.

Immediately a quiet voice said “this is Sister Audrey”. She had called me using his phone. For a moment it felt just like old times reminding me of when he would call me to say “We’re going up to Georgia can you make it?”

Now, no more trips to Georgia… he has made a final trip home.

My friend is safe in the arms of Jesus. Hosea Lightbourn

LOREN JOHNSON

His Story

A Legacy of Service Shakespeare penned these words attributed to Anthony in his famous play Julius Ceasar: The evil that men do lives after them; The good is oft interrèd with their bones. As it relates to Brother Loren Johnson, we say “So it will not be with Loren.”

His life of service has been imprinted as footprints in the sand of time – a path that others can follow; a legacy that endures.

For 13 years Brother Loren Johnson has served Apostolic Camp International (ACI), beyond the call of duty. We don’t recall how he was engaged and we don’t know how we functioned before him; as with all the ACI staff, he has never been paid although he supervises a team that is integral to the operations of ACI. You have never seen him on the ACI stage, he was never in the limelight, in fact you may not even have known of his service. Like many who make things happen, he was in the background – simply serving.

Then, in 2016, he was not able to attend camp because of illness. We were devastated! The news of his illness was difficult to wrap our minds around and we had to learn to function without him at the helm. However, as we were preparing and began to organize the duties of that group of volunteers, we were surprised to find that they were all assigned to their duties. Drivers were assigned to buses, buses were scheduled for maintenance, and the team was prepared to function like clockwork. All the arrangements were made by Bro. J from his sick bed as he faced a terminal illness.

Today we honor God’s servant for his service to ACI and by extension to the Kingdom of God. Time would not allow the staff of ACI to express our appreciation for the dedicated service and for the years of putting up with us as he transported us to and from camp sites and retreat venues and wherever we decided we needed to go… not to mention the many trips he has made to Offerman to maintain the grounds of the future home of ACI. We love, honor, and respect this servant of God who understood humility, service, and commitment. He modeled those traits before us.

We glorify God for the miracle of salvation and for the spiritual healing He wrought in our brother Loren.

We grieve but not as those without hope; a soldier has laid down his arms, an ambassador has been recalled, and a child of God has gone to the place prepared for him.

The history of ACI will record that we honor Bro Loren Johnson as an example of a dedicated soldier. His life and his legacy of service will continue to inspire those who serve in the mission of Apostolic Camp International.

Our Brother … Our Friend

LOREN JOHNSON

His Story

It is hard to imagine life without a friend who has transcended decades but has remained consistent for the entire time. Lauren Johnson, or Brother J as we affectionately called him was kind, caring, warm, and was one of the most selfless individuals we know. We met at Pentab Miami in 1998 during the construction of the sanctuary where there was an immediate connection. He had a consistent desire to help others and always had a positive impact on his environment. His love for God translated in his unwavering desire to spread the gospel and to aspire for excellence in everything he did. This undoubtedly is the mark of a true ‘Kingdom Man’.

The Bramwells

Brother J, If I could have one more talk… one more dream… one more walk… one more road trip to Offerman, I would do it in a heartbeat! Thank you for sharing your life with me. You were the master at being a good listener and encourager while staying coordinated in every other area of your life. You consistently inspired me to go higher in my spiritual walk and to be better than just ordinary. You were strong headed, but used that strong will to help others to build character. You have impacted so many lives and will forever be a part of mine. You have left a legacy of memories that I will never forget. Bro J, you have fought a good fight, you have finished your course, you have kept the faith, and you will forever be in our hearts.

Winston Bramwell Sr.

LOREN JOHNSON

His Story

Life Goes On

A Mission Trip from Loren’s Perspective – excerpt from the report on the Louisiana Mission trip of September 25-30, 2005

Sleep, My Brother

LOREN JOHNSON

By T. Hutchinson (Modified) I wish you sweet sleep, my brother dear.

Although there’s so much that you’ve left bare I hate that you had to endure such pain On my mind, your saddened eyes have left a stain.

I want to know what crossed your mind Unspoken words you’ve left behind Undone things we’ll never do No sharing thoughts you never knew.

A peace has fallen upon your head A taste of sorrow we have been fed It really is like a hole in our lives One swiftly dug but carved out by knives.

But I have hope that those sleeping will rise The Bible says that God will open their eyes.

No suffering, sickness, yes not even pain, Those who did good, eternal life they’ll gain.

So… sleep on my brother, sleep tight For now with you the sky is night.

But after night will come daybreak Therefore I will wait hoping to see you awake.

Submitted by Christine

His Story

LOREN JOHNSON

Thank You

His Story

The family of Loren Johnson is extremely grateful for the outpouring of love and kindness shown to us during this time. We thank God for the gift of friends like you. You have been a tower of strength to us. God bless you all.

PALL BEARERS

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Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in His law doth he meditate day and night.

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

Psalms 1: 1-3

When I’ve gone the last mile of the way I will rest at the close of the day And I know there are joys that await me When I’ve gone the last mile of the way