Rev. John W. Tinsley, Pastor of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, Dies at 76

Rev. John W. Tinsley, a dedicated educator and pastor, passed away on December 22, 2018, at the age of 76. Born in Franklin County, Virginia, on April 6, 1942, he was the son of John Evia Tinsley and Kate Smith Tinsley. Tinsley graduated from Carver High School in 1959 and married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Stanley, on April 1, 1961. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Virginia State College, now Virginia State University, and his Master’s degree from North Carolina A&T University. He later obtained his Doctor of Divinity from Bethlehem Bible College.

Tinsley’s career in education spanned over three decades, with more than 33 years of service in Martinsville City Schools. His approach to education emphasized compassion and understanding, as evidenced by his record of not suspending students, which was acknowledged by the Virginia Department of Education. He accepted Christ on May 26, 1974, and became a member of Friendship Baptist Church. His call to ministry began in 1987, and he was installed as pastor of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Cascade, Virginia, in December 1988. He served there until his retirement in 2016.

Throughout his ministry, Tinsley held several leadership roles within Baptist organizations. He served as a former president of the Virginia State Baptist Training Union and Sunday School Convention, and as an officer of the National Baptist Convention, the Southern Baptist Convention, and the Henry County Baptist Association. His contributions extended beyond the church, including recognition for his volunteer work and efforts in promoting Black history. He also co-produced country blues music with his father, which was distributed internationally.

Known as the “Community Pastor” in Bassett, Virginia, Tinsley was deeply involved in his local community. He was a devoted member of the Sunset Drive and Oak Level Community, offering encouragement and support to many. His legacy includes a life of service, compassion, and dedication to both education and ministry.

Surviving Tinsley are his wife, Shirley Stanley Tinsley; two daughters, Gwendolyn Sheree Tinsley and Dr. Susan Tinsley Gooden; one son-in-law, Dr. Basil I. Gooden; one granddaughter, Caper Caitlin Gooden; an aunt, Louise Smith; an uncle, Wray Smith; and many relatives and friends. Funeral services were held on December 28, 2018, at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, followed by interment at Carver Memorial Gardens.

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