Pastor John Edward Brentley Sr.

Peacefully, on May 6, 2017, our dearly beloved father, son, brother and friend John, was called home to be with the Lord

Born May 14, 1959 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, John was the middle child of nine to Essie and Irvin Brentley, Sr. A nod to the musical inclinations of his bloodline, John became a trained musical savant mastering a range of instruments including saxophone and piano, as well as reading and composing music, even as a young child. John showcased his talents throughout his school years, and later volunteered his time and talents to the Youth/Young Adult Choir at Calvary United Methodist Church and in ministry with Keith Moncrief at Christian Temple.

He graduated from Perry High School in 1977, attended Clarion University and later, Lincoln University where he pledged Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. (Epsilon) in 1980. John, newly dubbed Rasmo by his fellow"nupes" nurtured his love of music alongside a bright career in business initially at Mellon Bank. In 1983, John struck a perfect note when he married his wife Clevetta "Red" Smith. Their union created 5 beautiful melodies: John Jr., Joshua, Jeremy, Jacob and Emmanuel.

John later enjoyed a successful career in real estate, spanning nearly 25 years. John worked most notably for Remax as an agent, and had professionally distinguished himself by earning the GRI designation, the gold standard in real estate. Ever the entrepreneur, John was always building, learning and acquiring and transferring this knowledge to his sons at every turn.

But, it was John's surrender of his life to Yahweh at the young age of 24 that yielded the greatest of life's lessons to all who know him. John's reverence for the Lord and the Word of God underscored the fasted lifestyle he led for the balance of his life. As the patriarch of his family, he was a breathing example to his children and grandchildren, demonstrating the power of professing and walking by faith. His faith and conviction of God's word was palpable; he was unashamed, courageous, a true warrior. He was and is  our hero.

John was preceded in death by his parents Irvin Sr. and Essie Brentley and leaves to cherish his memory his wife "Red" Brentley, five sons, John Ii,Joshua, Jeremy, Jacob and Emmanuel, nine grandchildren, eight siblings, a host of nieces, nephews and in-laws.

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