John William Hurst Sr.

He was born March 10, 1941, in Sugar Grove, Ohio, to the late Pearley Andrew and Elsie Mae (Tignor) Hurst. John was a 1959 graduate of Berne Union High School in Sugar Grove, Ohio. He later graduated from Bible college at Lighthouse Apostolic Church on July 6, 1970. He retired from the steel industry in 1995 after many years of dedicated service.

Above all else, John was a minister of the Gospel. His life’s work was not defined by a career, but by a calling. Called to preach as a young man, he devoted his life to serving the Lord by pastoring congregations, planting churches throughout Ohio, mentoring young ministers, and faithfully proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was licensed into the ministry on July 6, 1970, a calling he faithfully fulfilled for the next 56 years. Even after retiring from pastoral ministry, he faithfully worshiped and served at New Life of Massillon, where he continued encouraging others, mentoring young ministers, and reaching for the lost. His greatest desire was that everyone he met would come to know Jesus Christ.

John loved studying God’s Word, attending church, coaching youth sports, playing softball, watching football, and cheering on his children and grandchildren from the sidelines. He enjoyed sitting on the front porch with a cup of coffee, watching the neighborhood go by, and caring for the many animals his grandchildren somehow always managed to leave behind. He never knew a stranger. Whether someone needed a pastor, a father, a friend, or simply someone to believe in them, John was always willing to make room. His screen door was always unlocked for anyone who needed a meal, a place to stay, wise counsel, prayer, a hug, or simply someone to listen.

His greatest ministry was his home. Alongside his beloved wife, Helen, John opened his doors to countless family members and friends who needed a place to belong. His life reflected the servant heart of Christ, and he faithfully poured himself into the lives of others.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pearley Andrew and Elsie Mae (Tignor) Hurst; his wives, Helen Sue Hurst (Davis) and Marlene (Ream) Hurst; his granddaughter, Alisha Hurst; his brothers, Pearley Andrew Hurst, Jr. and Richard Hurst; his sister, Elsie Mae Edwards; and other beloved family members.

He is survived by his sons, John W. Hurst, Jr. (Sheila), Scott J. Hurst (Kathy), Jack L. Hurst, Sr., Lee D. Hurst (Cynthia), Jack L. Hurst, Jr. (Kennedy), Patrick E. Hurst (Kylie), and Daniel J. Hurst.

He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jaclyn Ferreira, Justina Hurst, Christopher B. Hurst, John W. Hurst III, Austin Corpron, Erin Corpron, Lee D. Hurst II, Dawson B. Hurst, and Gracen B. Hurst; great-grandchildren, Alexis Ferreira, Shawn Michael Ferreira Jr., Nevaeh Adkins, Gabriel Adkins, Rylan Leitwein, Xavier Foster, Julianna N. Hurst, Atlee S. Hurst, Cedar R. Hurst, Karra L. Hurst, CJ I. Hurst, Ezmerelda M. Hurst, Easton E. Hurst, Sawyer T. Hurst, and Rowan Hurst; brothers, Mike Hurst, Ron Hurst, and Kenny Hurst; sister, Sandy Kellenbarger; and numerous nieces, nephews, church family, and dear friends.

Calling hours will be held Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at New Life of Massillon, 3542 12th St. NW, Massillon, Ohio 44646. A Celebration of Life will begin at 1:00 p.m., with burial to follow at Sunset Hills Memory Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to New Life of Massillon.

The family finds comfort in knowing that the man who spent his life pointing others to Jesus has now heard the words he longed for: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”