Deacon James Matthew Leftwich Sr. at the age of 89 was called home to be with the Lord on the evening of July 26, 2021. He was born August 16, 1931 in North Carolina to parents, Wilcie and Dora Toni Leftwich. He and his parents would later relocate to Roanoke, VA where he met his long-time love Queen Esther Leftwich. Deacon Leftwich was joined in Matrimony to Queen E. Leftwich and enjoyed a blessed 68 year marriage until her passing. He was a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather. Together they raised six children, Brenda G. Vance, James M. Leftwich, Jr., Della K. O'Neal, Robert W. Leftwich, David A. Leftwich and Fredrick L. Leftwich. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilcie and Dora Leftwich, his wife, Queen Esther Leftwich in 2017, his sister, Edith Leftwich McGeorge, brothers, Wilcie Leftwich, Jr. and (Name Unknown). His son, James M. Leftwich Jr., son-in-law, Elder Dock O'Neal, brothers-in-law, Charles, William, Roy and Frank Campbell, sisters-in-law, Bishop J.C. English, Dorothy Cooper and Francis Campbell all of Roanoke, VA. Deacon Leftwich dedicated his life to God as one of the founding members of Emmanuel Tabernacle Baptist Church (E.T.B.C) of Apostolic Faith under the leadership of the late Bishop S.H. Brown. Later in 1980 he would become head deacon at E.T.B.C and served faithfully traveling for many years attending church conferences and conventions. He would often have an encouraging word before receiving the tithes and offerings while showing his excitement for the Lord. His favorite quote when receiving the offerings, "It ain't nothing but Money, It's no good if you don't spend it." He was excited about God and would do a twill around the offering table. He greeted everyone with a smile and always remained humble no matter the circumstances. He was a faithful servant to God and a strong leader to his family and church until his passing. Deacon Leftwich would work first as a butcher and later as a banquet chef for more than 60 years in Roanoke, Virginia. He would also share those services working for families in Old S.W. Virginia providing love, joy and happiness in everything he did. He would often provide his services for many church functions, allowing everyone to enjoy one of the many gifts that God had given him. He loved to cook and taught his children and grandchildren many of the secrets that he learned. Those left to cherish his memory are daughters, Brenda (Aaron) Vance and Elder Della O'Neal, sons, Robert (Ferrie) Leftwich, David Leftwich and Fredrick (Cindy) Leftwich, 16 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, 20 great- great grandchildren, two Goddaughters and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. Deacon Leftwich left a legacy of love while spreading God's word to all those he encountered. He was appointed to the Finance Committee of the Emmanuel Tabernacle Baptist Church Apostolic Faith, Inc. until his health did not allow him in 2020. He told us if any one should write my life's story tell them that Jesus was the best thing that ever happened to me. A funeral service will be held Saturday, August 7, 2021, 12Noon at Emmanuel Tabernacle Baptist Church of the Apostolic Faith 5 12th Street, SW Roanoke. The family will receive friends on Friday, August 6, 2021 from 5PM-7PM at the Church. The interment will be in Williams Memorial Park.
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