Mesa, Az - In Memory of James Arnold Eastin

James Arnold Eastin, a devoted pastor, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully in Mesa, AZ on March 2, 2024 at the age of 94. He has reunited with his beloved wife, Mary "Jacque" Eastin, who recently passed on January 26, 2024 at the age of 92. James leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and ministry.

Born on July 26, 1929 in High Springs, FL to Curtis Mitchell Eastin and Lillie May (Palmer) Eastin, James was the fifth of seven children. Enduring the challenges of growing up during the Great Depression and losing his father at the age of 13, he took on various jobs to help support his family. Following high school, James worked for the railroad and later served in the United States Air Force.

During a visit to Ajo, AZ in 1953, James met Jacque Shackelford, and they were married that Christmas Eve. Their journey led them to Waxahachie, TX where James graduated from Southwestern Bible College.

For over 55 years, James and Jacque dedicated their lives to ministry, leading congregations in four Assembly of God churches, including 30 years at Tempe First Assembly, which later moved and changed its name to Without Walls Church. Additionally, they successfully operated several family-owned laundromats and dry-cleaning businesses. In their post-retirement years, they founded the AZ Assembly of God Retired Ministers, Wives & Widows Fellowship, providing support to fellow ministers.

James' life was marked by determination, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to spreading the word of God. His impact on the lives of those he shepherded and the communities he touched will be remembered for generations to come.

Celebrating their 70th anniversary on December 24, 2023, the Eastins cherished a lifetime of shared love and commitment. James is survived by his three sons: Jim (Patty), Dwaine (Denise), and Steve (Aileen); eleven grandchildren: Katie, Priscilla, Trevor (Mackenzie), Jon, Kris (Francesca), Cameron (Amanda), Thomas (Shalyn), Cody (Christina), Kassi (Logan), Charlie, and Henry; and five great-grandchildren: Caleb, Leroy, Wesson, Waylon, and Harrison, with the anticipation of an unborn great-grandson coming soon.

Services will be held at 1pm on March 16, 2024 at Without Walls Church in Mesa, AZ.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Without Walls Church to honor Pastor Eastin's legacy and continue the ministry that was so close to his heart: https://withoutwalls.tv/give/