James Michael Washington

Mr. James “Michael” Washington, 54, of Morristown, went peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior on September 28, 2024 at Morristown Hamblen ER surrounded by his wife, his sister-n-love Flora, his Ministers and his favorite nurse, Donna, after a short bout with Leukemia.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Darlene Washington, brother Rickey Washington; sisters Tina Hofer and Angela Washington.

He is survived by Susie Washington, his loving and devoted wife of over 20 years; daughters Sophia Washington, Vanessa Washington, son Trevor Washington and bonus daughter Inika (Eric) Vance. His grandchildren, Jalyn Vance, Jordan Vance, Kenadee Koch and Kaidance Lawson. His brother Bobby Hofer, and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and his New Beginnings Ministries Church family.

He was employed by Parker-Hannifin Corporation in Greeneville, TN over 21 years. He answered his call to the ministry in 2006, and he preached his first sermon September 3, 2006 at Abundant Life Church in Morristown where he and his wife were members. He received his Certificate of License on December 17, 2006 and his Certificate of Ordination on August 15, 2010; under his mentor Pastor James Goins. He had a deep passion for ministering to those in Drug Rehabilitation Programs. Inspired by his work he was asked to become Pastor at City of Hope Ministries for a drug rehab center. After a short bout there, he was led to establish his own ministry and became the Founder and Pastor of New Beginnings Ministries in Whitesburg, TN since 2011. He was dedicated to serving individuals on the path to recovery and spiritual renewal. His goal was to create a supportive community focused on love, healing, hope, and transformation of souls for the Kingdom.

Michael loved learning and researching the bible and received his Bachelor of Biblical Studies and continued his education and received his Master’s in May 2023. He strived to continue learning and growing in the knowledge and understanding of the Word of God and the history. What he loved most was the revelations that God revealed to him in his personal relationship with the Lord.

Michael was a passionate servant of the Lord and was truly sold out for Jesus. He was a devout leader not only for his congregation, but also a forerunner for missions in his community and surrounding area. He held a special love in serving the homeless and being a godly alliance for our youth. He always had a humble spirit and a big smile. Whether friend or stranger, his conversation was going to include telling you about his Jesus.

His favorite past time was to spend time with his beloved wife, traveling, enjoying good food, basketball and action movies. He loved watching Marvel movies, especially with his grandkids, ministers and the youth. His greatest joy was being a loving husband, a wonderful dad and a special “PaPa”. Spending quality time with his grandkids and making special memories while planting seeds in them brought him great joy and happiness.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the support from our families and friends, church family, UT Medical Center and Cancer Specialists and Morristown Hamblen ER department.