Rev. James Michael Gonyea

Reverend James Gonyea passed away peacefully on August 28, 2026, at the age of 81. Born in Flint, Michigan, on February 6, 1945, James was one of five children. His life took a profound turn in 1971 when he committed his life to Jesus Christ, a decision that shaped not only his own path, but the spiritual direction of his family for generations to come. He was ordained an Elder in the Church of the Nazarene and faithfully served in ministry for more than 50 years. James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ernice Florence Gonyea. 

Together, they built a family whose story would continue through many generations. James is survived by his four sons: Larry Gonyea; Michael James Gonyea and his wife, Kathy; Edmund Mark Gonyea and his wife, Teresa; and Mark James Gonyea and his wife, Tammy. His family continues through his grandchildren, each representing another chapter in the story God began through James’ decision to follow Christ. 

Larry’s sons are Nicholas Gonyea and Thomas Gonyea. Michael and Kathy’s children are Brandon Gonyea and his wife, Makayla, and Rachelle Short and her husband, Andy. Edmund and Teresa’s children are Whitney Patterson and her husband, Blake; Taylor Harper and her husband, Reese; and Zach Gonyea. Mark and Tammy’s children are Blake Gonyea and his wife, Taylor; Kaleb Gonyea and his wife, Stephanie; and Mallory Gonyea. James leaves behind 13 great-grandchildren, another generation of the family whose lives are part of the legacy that began with one life-changing decision in 1971. 

James’ legacy is measured not simply in the years he lived or the sermons he preached, but in the lives he touched and in the generations that followed him. His decision to give his life to Christ became a starting point for a family legacy that continues today. His story reminds us that God can use one person’s “yes” to change the direction of a family. What began with James’ decision to follow Jesus in 1971 became a faith that could be passed from one generation to another. As his family remembers him, may we remember not only the man he was, but the choice he made and the path that choice opened for those who came after him. May his family carry forward the greatest legacy he leaves behind: to know Jesus, to love Jesus, and to make Him known.

Visitation with the family will be held at Woodfin Memorial Chapel on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, from 1:00PM until 2:00 PM with service beginning at 2:00 PM with Rev. Dale Turner officiating. Cremation is under the direction of Woodfin Memorial Chapel.