“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day.”

Deacon Johnie Albert Bunch, 80, of the 200 block of Locust Street, entered into eternal slumber on Sunday, Aug. 24, 2014. Johnie was affectionately known as “Shorty.” He was born on Dec. 13, 1933, to the late Marshall Perry and Alice Bunch in Bertie County, N.C.

He entered into holy matrimony to Gracie Bunch and retired from Obici Hospital after many years of dedicated service.

Johnie was a member of New Calvary Baptist Church, where he served diligently on the Deacon’s Board.

Johnie leaves behind to cherish his memory, his devoted and loving wife, Gracie Bunch; daughter, Charlene Brown (Charles); three sons, the Rev. Jarvis A. Jones, John S. Bunch and Albert Knight; foster daughter, Lynda Sweat; two sisters, Maggie Johnson and Helen Weaver-Joyner; eight grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and many other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by one son, Robert Jones, three brothers, seven foster brothers and five foster sisters.

Mr. Bunch will be on view Thursday from noon to 7 p.m., and the family will receive guests from 6 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. A service of triumph will take place noon on Friday at Oak Grove Baptist Church, and he will be laid to rest at Oak Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy and flowers may be extended to the family at www.cookeovertonfuneralhome.com.

Professional services are entrusted to T.E. Cooke-Overton Funeral Home Inc.