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James Hobby Obituary
Born on April 22, 1935, Pastor Hobby was one of seven children brought up in a loving, God-fearing home in Pensacola, FL. He answered the call to ministry early in life, dedicating decades to building churches and preaching the Word of God, establishing his first church in 1965 in Eloise, FL. In 1999 he changed direction and founded Footsoldier Ministries with a mission to reach the homeless and poor. Footsoldier Ministries began it's ministering under the overpass at 19th St and Adamo Drive in Tampa, FL and by 2012 had expanded to the Philippines continuing to feed the poor and bring souls to the Lord. Over the years and miles Footsoldier Ministries covered, tens of thousands of souls were brought to Jesus and hundreds of thousands of meals fed hungry stomachs.
Pastor Hobby enjoyed the beach, riding his motorcycle and spending time in the gym, but above all, he treasured his family. He is survived by his wife, Juleta Hobby, the mother of his children, La'Nelle Hobby, three children Tony (Shauna) Hobby, Tanya Hobby, Tyla (Brent) Dyer and his pride and joy, five grandchildren and six great grandchildren who brought him endless happiness and laughter. A man of deep faith and humility, he instilled in them the values of kindness, integrity, and perseverance.
Pastor Hobby will be remembered for his devotion to his faith and family. His legacy lives on through the lives he impacted and the love he shared so generously. A celebration of Pastor Hobby's life will be held Saturday, January 11, 2025 at Clair Mel First Assembly of God church located at 2415 South 78th Street, Tampa, FL at 1pm. Friends and family are invited to gather to honor his memory and celebrate a life well lived.
"Well done, good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:23)
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Footsoldier Ministries partners:
First Free Will Baptist Church
11605 US-92
Seffner, FL 33584
Highland City Refuge Church of God
PO Box 1173
Highland City, FL 33812
Clair Mel First Assembly of God Church
2415 South 78th Street
Tampa, FL 33619
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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