John Alfred Greenleaf

Obituary for Elder John Alfred Greenleaf

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant.

”

– Matthew 25:21, KJV

With deep love and reverence, we celebrate the life and homegoing of Elder John Alfred Greenleaf—a devoted husband, father, grandfather, minister, and friend whose life was a testament to unwavering faith, steadfast service, and compassionate love.

John was born on December 8, 1955 in Jefferson, Texas to the late George Greenleaf and Melva Lee Hayes. From an early age, John exemplified quiet strength, humility, and a heart devoted to God, family, and community. He was a man of integrity, wisdom, and grace whose presence brought peace and encouragement to all who knew him.

John had a strong commitment to education and lifelong learning. He attended high school in Avinger, Texas where he enjoyed participating in basketball, football, and other sports. He graduated from Avinger High School in 1975. He earned his associate degree from Kilgore College in 1977, followed by a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1980. While at SFA he was an active member of the Baptist Student Union (BSU) and participated in several mission trips, demonstrating his dedication to sharing the Gospel through service. After graduating from SFA John went on to work at the Harris County Auditor’s Office for two years in Houston, TX.

His passion for ministry led him to pursue and receive a Master's of Divinity degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1987. In 1988, Elder Greenleaf became a founding and charter member of Keystone Baptist Church, which later became the House of Prayer and Praise Church. For nearly five decades he served faithfully in various roles, including Financial Director/Treasurer, Vacation Bible School Director, Sunday School Director, a member of the Keystone Council, and Men’s Leadership Committee. In 2019, he was ordained as an Elder, continuing to serve with humility and a servant’s heart. His leadership and spiritual guidance left a lasting legacy within his church and beyond.

On June 8, 1991 John married the love of his life, Naomi Williams. Together they shared 33 beautiful years of marriage and raised three beloved daughters: Anitta, Samantha, and Nalisia. 

John was a devoted and loving husband and father whose quiet encouragement, wise counsel, and unwavering presence served as the foundation of his family. Professionally, John dedicated nearly two decades of service to Tarrant County (1998-2017) where he worked in the Information Technology Department as a Systems Analyst/Programmer specializing in mainframe technology. His technical expertise and commitment to excellence made him a valued team member and mentor. After his tenure with Tarrant County, John continued his IT career with Data Management, also focusing on mainframe systems where he worked for an additional five years before retiring in March 2024.

John also served as an Adjunct Professor at Tarrant County College from 1999-2006 where he shared his knowledge and passion for technology while positively impacting the lives and careers of many students. He also took great joy in supporting his daughters' academic and extracurricular activities. John served as the Treasurer of the PTA at Handley Middle School, Band Booster member at Eastern Hills High School and Trimble Tech High School, always present and encouraging.

John’s faith was not confined to Sunday mornings. He lived out his beliefs through action. A committed volunteer, he served with Meals on Wheels, regularly donated platelets through Carter BloodCare, and contributed over five years of service to the United Community Centers.

John’s health journey was one of courage and faith. Despite the challenges he faced, he remained dedicated to his well-being. He attended dialysis consistently, showing remarkable discipline and resilience. He found strength and support through his Kidney Support Group where he encouraged and uplifted others who were walking similar paths. In 2016 John received the incredible gift of life through a kidney transplant at Texas Harris Health Hospital which renewed his strength and deepened his gratitude for each day.

On May 23, 2025 Elder John Greenleaf transitioned from labor to reward, answering the Master’s call and entering into eternal rest. He now rests in the arms of his Savior.

Left in the caring hands of God are his beloved wife of 33 years, Naomi Greenleaf, and his treasured daughters: Anitta Williams (Adrian), Samantha Greenleaf (Daniel), and Nalisia Greenleaf. He was a proud and loving grandfather to three cherished grandchildren: Adrian Demarques White Jr., Nia Nyansarora Nyachuba, and Nadia Simone White, who will forever carry his love and legacy in their hearts. John is preceded in death by his grandparents Johnnie Houston and Mattie Martin Gray, his parents Melva Lee Hayes and George Greenleaf, as well as his biological father, James President Noiel, with whom he was blessed to develop a meaningful relationship later in life. He is also preceded in death by siblings Louis Arthur Greenleaf, Diann Wilson, Minnie Seaton, Anthony Hayes, and a close cousin Deloris Davis. He is lovingly remembered by his siblings: Penny Greenleaf, Ronnie Greenleaf, Darline Hampton (William), and Debra Greenleaf; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, church family, and dear friends.

Though our hearts grieve his absence, we rejoice in knowing that John’s legacy—his faith, service, strength, and love—will continue to shine through the many lives he touched. His life was well-lived, and his memory will remain an eternal blessing.