Jerold Evan Golston

Jerry is survived by his wife of 57 years, Verla Roark Golston, son Jeremiah and wife Amy, daughter Rachel Golston; Grandchildren Caleb, Levi (Vicky), Olivia Golston and great granddaughter Grace; brothers Gary (Joann), Ward; sisters Evelyn Golston, Brenda (Doral) Atkins, Beverly (Henry) Bonner, Glatha Hooper, Cynthia (Ray) Sansom; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Everett and Sybil Golston and Sisters Dolores Gagnier and Barbara Smothers.

Jerry was a graduate of Macks Creek High School, Southwest Baptist University, Southwest Missouri State, and Midwestern Theological Seminary. He was ordained to the Ministry at Macks Creek Baptist Church in May 1957. He taught school and coached sports a few years then served in the military army division from June 1959-June 1961.

He married Verla Roark on August 15, 1964 at High Point Baptist Church in Stoutland, Mo where he was pastor. He also pastored Olive Point Baptist Church and Short Creek Baptist Church.

Jerold and Verla were appointed as missionaries to Brazil by the International Mission Board of the SBC on October 8, 1968 and retired September 30, 2001. They ministered faithfully in the state of Ceara, Brazil. Jerold used his leadership skills, loving care, and ability to work hard and persevere to help lay the foundation of 48 churches. He was a church planter and helped start and organize many churches. He traveled throughout the state preaching the gospel working with churches and leaders. He was instrumental in helping many people accept Christ as their Savior and baptized and discipled many believers. He had a big impact on the Brazilian people. He loved them and was loved dearly by them. He was known as the pastor of the pastors and an encourager. He served as the Executive Secretary for Baptist Work in Ceara for several years working on strategic planning for the state. Along with the Baptist leaders, he helped start the Ceara Baptist Seminary. He used the Alvorada Church where he was pastor, to house the Seminary for several years. He worked with many volunteer groups from the United States that helped with church construction. The State of Ceara honored him by giving him honorary citizenship of the state. The city of Fortaleza also honored him with citizenship of the city. The Baptist showed their appreciation for his dedication and hard work with medals, plaques, and services of Thanksgiving. He is emeritus Pastor of Alvorada Baptist Church where he was pastor for 15 years as well as two other churches.

He retired from the International Mission Board SBC in 2001. He and wife Verla moved to Frisco, TX. He was interim pastor at Calvary Baptist Church in Anna, TX and pastored the Westminster Baptist Church.

Jerry was known for his contagious smile and laughter. He enjoyed being near his children and grandchildren. He loved sports, playing games, and putting together puzzles. He liked his desserts.

Jerold’s greatest desire and mission was to see people come to know Christ as Savior and experience the peace that comes only from knowing and faithfully serving him.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.stonebriarfh.com for the Golston family.