Deacon Jack E. McElveen

Deacon Jack E. McElveen, the son of the late Leroy Luther and Mary McElveen, was born on January 27, 1936, in Florence, SC. He was the fifteenth born of 15 children. On April 8, 2026, Deacon McElveen entered into eternal rest.

Deacon McElveen attended Florence County schools. He was ordained as a Deacon at the age of 22, employed with SC Department of Transportation until his retirement, a member of Saint John Baptist Association Brotherhood, member of Layman Council, Advisor of Saint Beulah Sr. Usher Board, and St. John and New Hope Devotion Committee.

Deacon McElveen was more than a dedicated lifelong member. He was a pillar in the house of the Lord, serving faithfully as Chairman of the Deacons Ministry. His life reflected a deep love for God, an unwavering commitment to his family and church, and a genuine care for his community and everyone he encountered. He didn’t just serve, he gave of himself fully.

Deacon McElveen had a gift for pouring wisdom into others. Whether through heartfelt counsel or sharing stories from his past, he left seeds of knowledge, laughter, and truth with anyone willing to listen. His presence brought warmth, and his word carried weight.

Deacon McElveen was preceded in death by his father Leroy Luther McElveen; his mother Mary Tomlin McElveen; six brothers; eight sisters; his loving wife Wilbur Lee “Dukes” McElveen; and three children, Jack McElveen Jr., Barbara Denise Williams, and Harriett Ann McElveen.

Deacon McElveen leaves to cherish precious memories: his daughter, Debra (Jesse) Faison of Florence, SC; six grandchildren, Jeka McElveen Florence, SC, Jenelle McElveen Columbia, SC, Jessica Faison Florence, SC, Robin (Shiquita) Williams Watertown, WI, Robert (Rosedany) Williams of the home, and Brent (Jasmine) Young San Diego, CA; ten great-grands; a sister-in-law, Martha A. Harley of Florence, SC; a brother-in-law, Frank (Barbara) Durant Meriden, CT; a host of many nieces and nephews; a goddaughter, Sharon Davis, and a special adopted son, Deacon Terrance Legette.

The family will be receiving friends at 514 South Wallace Road, Florence, SC 29506, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Tuesday, April 14 through Thursday, April 16, 2026.