Pastor Jesse Benn, Jr.'s Obituary
Pastor Jesse Benn, Jr. was born May 7, 1941, to Jesse and Lucinda “Cinda” Benn, Sr. in Epes, Alabama. He graduated from Livingstone High School in 1961. Shortly after graduation, Jesse began his life of service in the military. He answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army, which included a tour in Vietnam. He received an honorable discharge at the end of his service time. Upon returning to civilian life, Jesse worked at Mueller Company for many years.
Jesse dedicated himself to ministry, beginning as a youth minister. He rose to become a beloved Pastor, known for his unwavering dedication to faith and service. He established churches in Chattanooga and other areas in Alabama. He pastored and founded Christian Fellowship Bible Church in Anniston, Alabama, pastored 1st Baptist Church, Jones Creek Baptist, and Christian Fellowship Baptist in Epes, Alabama. Besides being a church founder, Pastor Benn was also a spiritual mentor, community servant, Sunday School workshop organizer, and a part of Contact Phone Ministry for Troubled Adults in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Pastor Benn was a prominent figure in our city and a steadfast servant of the community. He touched countless lives all along his path of life as he continued to be a devoted man of faith.
Among those who preceded Jesse in death include his parents, Jesse and Lucinda Benn, Sr., and his brothers, Scott Benn and Tom Brown.
On Saturday, February 28, 2026, in a Birmingham, Alabama hospital, surrounded by his family and friends, Jesse answered God’s call at the age of 84 years old. Cherishing his memories include his loving wife of 62 years, Mary Jo Benn; sons, Melvin C. Benn, Jason L. Benn, and Michael L. Benn; brothers, Curtis (Brenda) Benn and Wilbert (Karla) Benn; sister-in-law, Cora Benn (Scott’s wife); 4 grandchildren; nieces; nephews; cousins; other relatives; very dear friend, Commissioner Gregory (Patricia) Beck, along with a host of other friends.
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