Rev. John Frederick Epps

1932 - 2026

Rev. John Frederick Epps, 93, transitioned to his heavenly home on February 26, 2026. A devoted servant of God and dedicated clergy leader in the United Methodist Church's Western North Carolina Conference (WNCC), Rev. Epps spent 41 years shepherding souls with profound faith and determination.

Born June 6, 1932, in Kingstree, SC, to David and Charlotte Epps, John was the youngest of ten children. Despite being orphaned at an early age, he excelled academically. Even with no financial resources, John, drawing on the spiritual foundation laid by his father and extended family, was determined to work hard to succeed in life. After graduating from Tomlinson High School, he worked summers to put himself through Morris Brown College, where he graduated with a B.A. in Psychology and a minor in Sociology. He then earned his Master of Divinity degree from the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta. While in seminary, he was active in the Civil Rights movement participating in numerous marches and sit-ins for racial justice.

Rev. Epps began his ministry in the AME Church in Crisfield, MD before becoming one of the first Black ministers to integrate the United Methodist Church in N.C. A "builder" of both sanctuaries and spirits, he pastored numerous churches across the Western North Carolina Conference and led the construction of two churches in Charlotte. He held numerous leadership positions in the WNCC including serving on boards responsible for the evaluation of new ministers. He delighted in supporting young ministers and was a cherished mentor to many "sons and daughters in the ministry."

John was a devoted family man, sharing 50 years of marriage and ministry with his beloved late wife, Margaret Olivia Hodge. He took immense pride in his daughters, Donna and Tiffany, teaching them that nothing is impossible with God. He never forgot his South Carolina roots, frequently visiting his extended family. He loved serving the people of God and took great joy in pastoral ministry. Whether he was leading a lay meeting, teaching Bible study or ministering to his sick and shut-in members, John embraced ministry with zeal and grace always looking to accomplish God's purposes.

Survivors include daughters, Donna Epps (Eric Bradford) and Tiffany Epps; granddaughter, Amber Frye; sister, Ella Gee Russell; sisters-in-law, Ether Epps and Mary McLean; and a host of extended family members, former congregants and mentees.

Visitation will be held at 11:30 a.m. Monday, March 9, 2026, at St. Matthews UMC, followed by the funeral at 12:30 p.m. Interment will follow at Guilford Memorial Park. Perry J. Brown Funeral Home is serving the family.