"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)

Pastor Emeritus John Fodrell, Jr. was a man of God. He lived his life as an example for others to follow. As a Bible scholar, he had an incredible ability for preaching and teaching the true, holy, spoken word of God in a manner that all could understand. Pastor Fodrell was a gifted minister and always sought to do things decently and in order. He lived his life to the glory of God, and it was truly a life well lived.

A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, cousin, and friend, Pastor Emeritus John Fodrell, Jr. departed this life on February 10, 2024, at the home he shared with his incredible and loving wife, Betty "Miss Betty," by his side.

The only boy of four children born to John, Sr. and Fannie Hawkins Fodrell, "Bub," as he was often called by his sisters, was born in Stokes County, specifically Danbury, NC. The family later moved to Greensboro where John attended school and later worked at the Palace Theater on E. Market St. as an usher. John loved music and was part of a musical group known as The Gazelles, where he was lead singer. He joined the US Army at the age of 20 and served until he was discharged in 1956 with honorable and faithful service from the 92nd Armored Field Artillery Battalion in operations in Korea. He was a decorated serviceman promoted to the rank of corporal, and he received two Bronze Service Stars and a United Nations Service Medal.

John Fodrell, Jr. married Betty Jean Jones and together they raised two daughters: Pamela and Desirée. He was a model employee for Sears Roebuck & Co. for more than 40 years where he drove a delivery truck and installed appliances throughout Guilford County. He was self-taught in all things "fix it." There wasn't anything that he couldn't do in the house or around the yard. John and Betty created a loving home for their family and exposed their children to historic sights and landmarks across the US. The family vacationed in the mountains of GA, NC, and TN; experienced the World's Fair in Knoxville, TN; traveled to the beaches of NC and Daytona, FL; and enjoyed visiting the sights and sounds of Atlanta, GA. They enjoyed the always fun Hawkins family reunions as well as many family outings with John's sisters: Clara, Eunice, Barbara and their families.

Pastor Fodrell answered and served God in spirit and in truth for more than 40 years as the shepherd of the Church of God Seventh Day. He was a biblical scholar who taught and preached with a calm demeanor and always welcomed the opportunity to explain the scriptures, rightly dividing the word of truth. He loved to sing and beat the tambourine while in the pulpit, and he always looked forward to a good meal after service. As his wife would say, "John loves sweets." Indeed, he did! When it came to a point where John needed to slow down, he never missed an opportunity to spend time with those he loved. He loved celebrating special events with family because he knew that there would also be a delicious dessert to highlight the occasion.

When his health started to decline, he never complained. If you asked him how he was feeling or doing, he would always respond by saying, "I'm fine." Prior to his death, he stated that he was going to live to be 100. While we know that he didn't make it, perhaps in his mind he did. He stayed positive until his last breath. Rest in power, man of God…rest in power.

The legacy of Pastor Emeritus John Fodrell, Jr. will live on through the memories of his wife of 63 years, Betty Jones Fodrell; his daughters, Pamela S. Fodrell and Desirée Fodrell Best (Durwood); grandchildren, Jenise T.R. Best and Denorris Q.L. Best (Shanta); great grandchildren, Braylin Davis and Zoë Best, and an abundance of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, church family, and friends.

Mr. John Fodrell, Jr., 93 of Greensboro, NC died Saturday February 10, 2024.  Public viewing of Mr. Fodrell is 11:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m. Sunday the 18th in Hargett Funeral Service 905 East Market Street  Greensboro, NC.  Visitation with the family and funeral service is 11:00 a.m. and 11:30 respectively Monday February 19, 2024 in New Light Missionary Baptist Church 1105 Willow Road Greensboro, NC followed by entombment in Lakeview Memorial Park 3600 N O' Henry Blvd (Hwy 29) Greensboro, NC 27405 Livestreaming of the service is available.