Jonathan Samuels

Minister Jonathan Roland Samuels was born on August 5, 1964, to the late Reverend Joseph “JR” Samuels and Mageline Samuels. On Saturday, October 11, 2025, Minister Samuels completed his earthly journey and entered eternal rest at the age of 61. Minister Samuels came into the world with a spirit as strong as his name and a heart destined to impact many.

From a young age, his path was marked by love, family, and faith. was raised in a home where God was the foundation, and it was under his father’s guidance that the seeds of ministry were first planted. He was educated in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School System and proudly graduated from East Forsyth High School, where he excelled as an outstanding athlete. He worked as a Roll-Off Truck Driver for over 25 years.

Minister Samuels was a well-respected drummer in the city, known and loved for the talent and energy he brought every time he played. He was a passionate NASCAR fan. He often visited Bowman Gray Racetrack on Saturday nights, relishing the exciting atmosphere and the roar of the engines. He appreciated the drivers' altercations and enjoyed visiting the pit area after each race. Additionally, he loved attending car shows.

As he grew, so did his influence. He was known for his charisma, loyalty, and infectious smile. His journey through life was never about fame or recognition — it was about connection. To know Minister Samuels was to know genuine kindness, humor, and a man who stood firmly in what he believed.

Inspired by the example set before him, Minister Samuels accepted his call into ministry later in life — proving it is never too late to walk in purpose. On March 11, 2018, he received his ministerial license and stepped into his calling with humility and strength. From that day forward, Minister Samuels was always ready with a word of encouragement, a listening ear, and a heart full of faith.

Though he faced loss — including his parents, his brother, Joseph Samuels, Jr., and Mother-In-Love Margaret Samuels - he never let grief dim his light. Instead, he honored their memory by living fully, loving deeply, and leading with compassion.

Minister Samuels' journey was filled with the joy of family. He married the love of his life, Trenia Samuels. His children enriched his life: Jonathan Jones, Antwon Mitchell, and his heart’s delight, Heaven Samuels. He also embraced Odasia Joyner-Torrence as his bonus daughter and shared a special bond with his Godson, Malik Stroud.

He was a proud and loving grandfather to Alexis Jones, Zakhi Mitchell, Antwon Mitchell, Zaire Mitchell, Za’King Mitchell, Za’kyrie Mitchell, Zakari Mitchell, Jaikobe Mitchell, Jakoa Mitchell, Jakru Mitchell, and Dace VanEaton — each one carrying forward a piece of his legacy.

He never walked his path alone. He shares a lifetime of memories with his devoted sisters: Varia (Val) Haynie, Jackie (John) Reader, and Angela Haynie; and his brothers Ralph Brown, Samuel (Cynthia) Brown, and Timothy Brown. The entire Miller family will always love and keep a special place for him in their hearts. His extended family, the Jacksons and the Haynie’s, will remember him with love and warmth.

Along the way, he was blessed with the gift of friendship, particularly with Richard Byrd, Ronald Couthen, Algie Hines, Jimmy Lowery, Willis Pickard, and Glenn Searcy—lifelong friends and brothers in spirit. Many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends will also treasure his memories.

While his steps on this side have ended, his impact lives on — in his family, and in every soul he touched with his ministry, laughter, and love. Minister Samuels' life was a testament to resilience, faith, and service. He walked his journey with integrity, courage, and grace — and now walks in glory

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