Lonnie J. Stokes

Deacon Lonnie James Stokes Sr. was born October 30, 1933, to the late Harry and Lillie Lee Lukosky of Gainesville, Florida. Sadly, three years after his birth, Lillie passed away and due to unforeseen family circumstances, Lonnie was adopted by Obediah and Minnie Stokes of Reddick, Florida. In 1956, After graduating from high school, Lonnie enlisted and served one tour of duty in the United States Air Force, in addition to attending college and earning an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice.

In 1961, following Lonnie’s active duty military service, he enlisted in the United States Army Reserve. He obtained employment as a correctional officer and worked at various correctional institutions. Lonnie was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant at Zephyrhills Correctional Institution of the Florida Department of Corrections before retiring in 1994 after providing nearly 34 years of dedicated service in corrections.

At an early age, Lonnie found Christ and dedicated his life to the Lord. His love of the lord was manifested in his membership and service at several churches during his lifetime to include being a former member of Friendship Baptist Church (formerly Reddick Baptist, serving as a Deacon),Church of God In Christ , Banner of Praise Church of God, and finally serving as a standing Deacon of Bishop Matthew Williams at Brown Memorial Church of God in Christ.

Lonnie was married to Annie Pearl Knight Stokes for 34 years, however they were together 52 years. They have two children together, Jacqueline L. Stokes and Baby Boy Stokes (deceased at birth). Lonnie was predeceased by his natural and adoptive parents, in addition to five siblings; sisters Cora Lee Orton (George), Ila Jewel Wilson (Raleigh); and brothers Harry Lukosky, James Calvin Lukosky, Donald Lukosky (Alfreda), and Johnny Lukosky. He is survived by his devoted wife, Annie Pearl Stokes; their daughter, Jacqueline L. Stokes; five children from his previous wife Patricia, sons: Lonnie J. Stokes Jr. (Susan), Waldo T. Stokes (Geri), George R. Howe (Patricia); and daughters: Patricia D. Stokes, Judy Ann Caldwell (Harold); his brother, Robert Burris; his sister-in-laws, Arlene Lukosky, Hazel Lukosky, Joyce Knight, Mary L. Rumlin (Daniel), Mabel Pickens and Julia Mae Hunt. He also leaves behind a cherished host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, great-nephews, great-nieces, cousins, and loving family and friends whom he treasured dearly.