JC and Betty ChoateUpdated 17:35 p.m. UTC, Feb. 4, Monday

WINONA, Miss. (BNc)- J.C. Choate, long-time missionary to India, Pakistan and the Far East, passed away at his home Feb. 1 at 12:20 p.m. CST, at age 75. He had been fighting cancer for some time.

Co-worker Louis Rushmore sent funeral arrangements at 6 p.m. CST.

J.C. would have been 76 on Feb. 6.

The text of the email is as follows:

“J.C. Choate passed away early this afternoon (CST, 2/1/08). J.C. and his wife Betty dedicated the last 45 years of their lives to reaching souls in Pakistan, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, the Philippines and various nations in Africa with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Through their efforts and the efforts of co-workers, radio, television, Internet, Bible schools, massive literature distribution and campaigns have contributed to the salvation of countless souls.

“The viewing will be on Monday, Feb. 4, 2008 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Oliver Funeral Home in Winona, Miss. The funeral will be on Tuesday, Feb. 5, at 2:00 p.m. at the Winona church of Christ.

“The family asks that flowers not be sent. Cards and emails are welcome, and if one wishes, he or she may make a memorial contribution for the World Evangelism School of Missions, sent to the Liberty church of Christ, 689 Highway 25, Dennis, Miss. 38838.”

J.C. received doctorate from HCUChoate and his family were missionaries in several countries and have worked heavily in India, especially in radio, television and print.

The family would appreciate the prayers of the brotherhood.

An earlier story provided some background as to J.C.’s battle with cancer.

J.C. founded World Evangelism Foundation as a base for his and his co-workers efforts around the world.

In May 2007 J.C. was awarded an honorary doctorate from Heritage Christian University, Florence, Ala., for his many years of dedicated service to missions.

Also in May 2007, J.C. was instrumental in inaugurating the first May Missionary Retreat at Maywood Christian Camp, designed to be an annual event.

Plans were also being formed for the World Evangelism School of Missions to train future missionaries.

For the full obituary, see this page.

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