ARVONIA, June 23 – Rev. John E. Mann Sr., 81, of Arvonia, left this earth for his heavenly home on Friday, June 19, 2009. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 61 years, Virginia “Jenny” S. Mann, on November 19, 2007.

John was born January 7, 1928 in Richmond, the youngest child of W.T. and Annie Mae Mann. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers.

Mr. Mann is survived by five children, Gloria Baber and Jerry of Batesville, John E. Mann Jr. and Bonnie of New Canton, Eva M. Mann of Arvonia, Dora M. Self and Steve of Wingina, and Timothy S. Mann and Kim of Greensboro, NC; six grandchildren, Jerry I. Baber Jr. of Charlottesville, Jason R. Baber of Harrisonburg, Paul R. Carter Jr. of Wingina, Amanda D. Carter of Wingina, Katelyn N. Mann of New Canton, and Scott Carson Mann of Greensboro, NC; and one great-grandson, Bryce, affectionately called “Boo-Boo” by his Papa; a sister, Muriel M. Mills of Gloucester; a “special” cousin, Janis Hatcher of Gloucester; and some special nieces and nephews who loved their “Uncle Johnny”.

He served his country in the Army during WWII and in the Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict.

He believed strongly in serving both his Lord and his country. He served as a minister of the Gospel for over 54 years, 52 along side his wife, Jenny. He served as a pastor in Grayson County, Brunswick County, Albemarle County, Fluvanna County, and for over 40 years in his beloved Buckingham County. He most recently served as the Director of Missions for the James River Baptist Association.

In addition to his ministry, John worked with the Buckingham Sheriff's Department as a dispatcher for 12 years. He served on the Buckingham County Planning Commission for over 20 years.

Mr. Mann was mentor to many young ministers along the way having lived the “ups” and “downs” of being a pastor. He will be sorely missed by all his many friends and most especially by his family.

Funeral services were conducted at Arvon Baptist Church on Monday.

Those who wish to may make memorial contributions to the James River Baptist Association's Benevolence Fund.

Dunkum Funeral Home, Dillwyn, was in charge of arrangements.