Pastor John Boykin Townsell

Pastor John B. Townsell, Sr was born December 10, 1941, in Nansemond County to the late Ed and Odis Townsell Sr. Joined in marriage to Edith Townsell. With this union there were four children. Preceded in death by his mother Odis Townsell, his father Ed Townsell Sr., daughter Rosalyn C.Liburd, sister Eva Denson, and bother Cornelius Townsell.John attended Oakland Elementary School and East Suffolk High School. He also attended Bible School. John served as one of God’s servants. He served in many areas: Sunday School Teacher, Senior Vocation Bible School Teacher, Deacon, Pastor of Cedar Grove Baptist Church for 30 years. John was employed at Newport News Shipbuilding for 40 years and served as Vice president of the Steel Workers local 8888 Union. John leaves to cherish his memories- his wife of 59 years Edith, son Ed (Stacy) John Jr. (Bridgitte), goddaughter Karla Foster, nine grandchildren, two great grandchildren, two brothers Edward Townsell, James Townsell (Rita), two sisters Susie Townsell, and Elizabeth Langhorne (Calvin). A viewing will be held on Saturday, June 15, 2024, 12-6p.m. in the chapel of Crocker Funeral Home.  A celebration of life will take place on Sunday, June 16, 2024, 2:30 p.m. at Macedonia Baptist Church. He will be laid to rest in Nansemond Suffolk Cemetery.  Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home, Inc.