John Alley, Jr. was born in 1934 in Portsmouth, Ohio to John and Sally Alley. He grew up on a farm, and he continued to love farming and gardening for the rest of his life. One day in high school, he and his best friend Bob decided to ask out a couple of cute sisters, and John ended up meeting the love of his life, Mary Davis. They married on July 10, 1952. They added two daughters to their family, Deborrah L. Marsh and Tonda Sue Musgrave.
John came to know the Lord around 1962. This was a decision that would impact not only his life, but the lives of his family and of so many others who knew him. He embodied the phrase “to live is Christ.” John graduated from Tennessee Temple College in 1967; he then returned to Ohio and became pastor of First Baptist Church in Proctorville. John led the congregation at First Baptist for 35 years. He impacted many lives and made many close friendships during his time there. Over the course of his ministry, he continued his studies, ultimately earning his Doctorate of Ministries, as well as several master’s degrees.
John and Mary moved to Decatur, Alabama when he retired from the ministry. But he never really retired. He acted as interim pastor in Decatur and was a guest preacher many times. He counseled people and led Bible studies. He even started a Bible study at the nursing home where Mary eventually had to stay due to her health issues. John visited her every day while she was there, and he was a blessing to the other residents as well.
Family was important to John. He and Mary delighted in their daughters, their grandchildren and their great-grandchildren, and they were never happier than when they were surrounded by their loved ones. Mary went to be with the Lord in 2017. John will be sorely missed by those whose lives he touched. Even to the end, he witnessed to the nurses who cared for him at the hospital. His life had an eternal impact, and he leaves behind a legacy of Christ’s love.
Graveside Service for John will be held Friday, June 26, 2020 at 10:00 AM at Roselawn Cemetery, Decatur, Alabama. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.roselawnfhandcemetery.com for the Alley family.
