Joe Nathan Townsend, Jr.

Townsend ~ “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.” ~ Psalms 28:7 (KJV)

The Beginning: Joe Nathan Townsend, Jr. was born August 15, 1950, to the union of Joe Nathan Townsend and Marion Townsend, in Jacksonville, Florida. He was reared and received his education at local school; and graduated from Gilbert High School. Joe accepted Christ at an earlier age and was a member of New Life Evangelistic Center.

His Life: He started his career with ILA and was a dedicated employee for over thirty years.

His Hobbies: When Joe wasn’t working, he faithfully enjoyed spending time with his family, indulging in conversations with family and friends, outdoor activities and watching football. He loved listening to his favorite artist, Diana Ross. Joe enjoyed his morning and afternoon prayer time and listening to Joel O’Steen.  He was “one of a kind”.

His Legacy: Joe was preceded in death by his grandson, Travis Wright; parents, Joe and Marion Townsend. He leaves to cherish his love, wife, Shannon Townsend; children, Joe Townsend III, Orlando, Florida, Brandon Townsend, Sierra Townsend and Eboni (Christopher) Townsend, Tracy G. Wright II, Trevor L. Wright; grandchildren, Joe Townsend IV, Frisco, Texas, Antwan and Whitney Adams, Jalen Townsend, Jamison Townsend, Orlando, Florida, Eugene Martin, Jerome Braziel, Xevon Washington, Lakeem Townsend, Braniyah Townsend, Brielle Townsend, Trevor L. Wright II; seven great grandchildren; brothers, Hourace Townsend, Greg Townsend, Reggie Townsend, Andre Townsend, Kenneth (Dena) Townsend, Ray (Trina) Townsend, Johnny (Kimberly) Townsend, Wayne (Arnette) Townsend; sisters, Marvette (Charles) Glover, Warner Robins,  Georgia, Joanne (Jason) Johnson, Sylvia Jones; an aunt, Sylvia; mother-in-law, Sandra Gelzer of Ridgeville South Carolina; brother-in-law, Sherman Washington; sister-in-law, Myra Washington, Atlanta, Georgia; a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, other family and caring friends.

The end: On Friday, July 11, 2025, Joe was welcomed to his final home.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate the life of Joe Nathan Townsend, Jr, 11 AM Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Unity Missionary Baptist Church, 281 East 44th Street.   Visitation Friday from 5 – 7 PM at The Soutel Chapel.  Because of the love of his family, arrangements entrusted to J. E. Fralin & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services, 5065 Soutel Dr, 904.924.9400. 

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