Private graveside services for Rev. Louis James “L. J. “ Mayweather, Jr. were held on Friday, April 10, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Zion Hill #1 Cemetery. He was the first born child of Rev. L. J. Sr. and Elise Mayweather, and was born on October 27, 1945. He transitioned from this life on April 2, 2020 at DeSoto Regional Medical Center in Mansfield following a very brief illness. He was preceded in death by his parents and his eldest son, Louis James Mayweather, III.
L. J. professed his love for Christ at an early age and was baptized at Zion Hill #1 Missionary Baptist Church. After years of dedication he served in many capacities at his church, faithfully and dutifully. He attended school and graduated from the DeSoto Parish School system in 1963. He met the love of his life, Rosie Mae Ross, and they married on June 13, 1965. They were blessed with three wonderful children.
L. J. was a true example of a servant leader and began preaching in 2008. He served his members with compassion and love and was a true servant for Jesus Christ. His favorite scripture was Psalm 121:1: “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.” His lifestyle illuminated Jesus Christ by serving the community and making a difference in so many lives.
He was the Pastor of Elizabeth Baptist Church in Pleasant Hill, Old Zion Baptist Church in Grand Cane, and Morning Glory Baptist Church in Mansfield. He enjoyedsinging and playing the guitar, something he had done for many years with the Spiritual Wonders and The Chosen Gospel Singers.
L. J. took his civic life seriously and was elected to the DeSoto Parish School Board as a representative for District 11, where he served for 40 years. He was currently serving his 7th term. He was a member of the Masonic Beacon Light Lodge #110 and was a former Worshipful Master. He was involved in a number of civic and community organizations and activities.
He was an employee of Nabors Trailers of Mansfield for many years, staying with them until the plant closed. L. J. then worked for Beard Inc. of Shreveport. He also worked part time for Fred’s Pharmacy in Mansfield.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving and devoted wife of 54 years, Rosie Mae Ross Mayweather; children Jarrow (Liz) Mayweather of Nacogdoches, Texas and Sharrow (Troy) Robertson of Tomball, Texas; two sisters, Velma (McKinnery) Paul of Houston, Texas and Billie Faye Alexander of Marksville, Louisiana; two brothers, L. C. (Rosie) Mayweather of Mansfield and Leon (Lillia) Mayweather of Houston, Texas; 12 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, four sisters-in-law: Bettye Woodley of Pelican, LA, Julia Jones of Mansfield, LA, Annie Ross and Marie Hudson, both of Shreveport, LA; one brother-in-law, Rev. Eddie Dean Ross of Keithville, LA; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, church family and friends.
Memorial contributions in L. J.’s memory can be made to any Mansfield High School club or organization or to the churches that he was affiliated with that are mentioned earlier in his obituary.
Because of his longevity and steadfast leadership, L. J.’s impact will be felt for years to come. Our lives are richer for having known him.