[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 90 (Friday, June 1, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E754-E755]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            IN MEMORY OF THE LIFE OF REVEREND JOE C. JOHNSON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 1, 2018

  Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, 2 Timothy 4:7-8 says, ``I have fought the 
good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there 
is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the 
righteous Judge, will award to me on that day--and not only to me, but 
also to all who have longed for his appearing.'' Reverend Joe C. 
Johnson, senior pastor of Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church in 
Hallandale Beach, Florida, finished the race with his passing on May 
25, 2018. He will certainly be missed by his loved ones and those of us 
honored enough to call him a friend.
  I had the pleasure of witnessing the profound impact that Reverend 
Johnson had throughout his four decades as pastor to one of the oldest 
churches in Broward County. His ministry was a cornerstone of a rich 
and vibrant faith community. Reverend Johnson bridged the gap between 
Hallandale Beach and Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church by hosting 
community events at the church. These events were so meaningful for his 
flock, and the larger community, that they were recognized for special 
commemoration on the occasion of Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church's 
101st Anniversary.
  Mr. Speaker, Reverend Johnson was a pillar of the community he loved, 
and his ultimate goal was helping people in all areas of their lives. 
He not only served as a leader to the members of his church, but as a 
counselor to local politicians, judges, and anyone who had the honor of 
knowing him. He also served as a chaplain for the Hallandale Beach Fire 
Department. Along with his extensive community engagement, Reverend 
Johnson sat on the board for the Hallandale Ministerial Association; 
the Florida East Coast Baptist Association; and Vision to Victory Human 
Services Corporation.
  Though no words can ease our sorrow, I offer my deepest sympathy to 
Reverend Johnson's wife, Emma Inez, his three children, four 
grandchildren, and countless friends who were impacted by the magnitude 
of his ministry. The legacy of Reverend Johnson will continue to live 
on throughout the countless individuals who were impacted by his 
calling to serve.
  Mr. Speaker, Reverend Joe C. Johnson is deserving of honor for his 
service to Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, and his dedication to 
the mentoring, and personal development of leaders within the greater 
Hallandale Beach area and Broward County. His service and commitment 
exemplify the positive contribution an individual can make to their 
profession and community. Reverend Johnson was a very

[[Page E755]]

dear friend. Words cannot express how much he will be missed.

                          ____________________