James West Stovall Sr.

For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. 2 Corinthians 5:1

James was born to Jewel Babe Stovall and Areatha Brown Stovall on March 27, 1950, in Tyertown, Mississippi. He was united in matrimony to Selma Gratchen Henry on July 30, 1983. To this union there were three sons: Gabriel, Rendell, and Joshua Stovall. He also had three sons by his first marriage to Brenda Tillis: James Jr., Raydell, and the late Jermaine Stovall.

Life was not short of adventure growing up with his nine siblings: Essie, Betty, Jimmy, Isaac, Isaiah, Jerry, Geral-dine, Lionel, and Bobby Jean. In his youth, he was known as the risky one. It would sound something like, "Get JW, he will do it!" He was introduced to carpentry in his adolescence, which he did until he retired in 2021 as a custom furniture maker and skilled craftsman. Around the time he was introduced to carpentry, he met a carpenter who changed his life for-ever. At the age of 19, James gave his life to Jesus and began to follow Him with his whole heart.

He started to attend Revival Center Pentecostal Church led by the late Pastor David L. Shelton, Sr. In the early '80s, he became a member of New Home Ministries in New Orleans under the leadership of the late Bishop Robert C. Blakes, Sr., who married him and Selma 42 years ago. James lived in New Orleans, Port Sulphur, Lafayette, and Walker, LA. He was the Pastor of New Jerusalem Temple from 1988-2005 (17 years). During this time, he was the host of "The Voice Crying in the Wilderness" broadcast on WBOK and K-75 radio in New Orleans. James and Selma then began The Prophet's Outreach Ministry and TV broadcast from 2008 to 2019 (11 years). In 2021, James became a member of Beam of Life Tabernacle (BOLT) Church in Plaquemine, LA, pastored by close friends Frank and Jeana Manguno.

On Friday, June 19, 2026, Prophet James West Stovall, Sr. was called from earth to glory at the age of 76.

He is survived by these to cherish his memory: His devoted wife, Selma Stovall. Loving children: James Jr., Raydell (Kimberly), Gabriel (Jessica), Rendell, Joshua (Alissa); a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and one godchild. His dear siblings: Jerry, Geraldine, and Bobby. Last but not least, his beloved friends and family gathered here today in honor of his legacy. And what a legacy it is. Let's carry it forward.

Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:8