Jonathan Joseph Filkins 

Published 9:54 am Tuesday, January 14, 2025

The Very Rev. Canon Jonathan Joseph Filkins, known to all as Father Jon, went to meet his Lord and Savior on Dec. 15, 2024. Born on Feb. 8, 1951, in Chicago, Ill., Father Jon’s life was one of service, faith, and dedication to others.

Raised in the vibrant city of Chicago, Father Jon’s early life was shaped by a deep sense of community and a love for the teachings of Christ. He pursued a calling to the ministry and was ordained as a priest, a vocation he would embrace fully throughout his life. Over the years, Father Jon served congregations across the United States, ministering to many in cities and towns that were blessed to have him shepherd their spiritual lives.

In 2009, Father Jon was called to be the Rector of Saint Barnabas Anglican Church in Picayune, Miss., where he devoted the final chapters of his ministry to building a loving, faithful congregation. Under his leadership, Saint Barnabas grew both in number and in spirit, as Father Jon’s warmth, wisdom, and commitment to the Anglican tradition provided a guiding light for many. His presence was both comforting and inspiring, and he was known for his deep theological knowledge, his dedication to pastoral care, and his compassionate leadership.

Father Jon was also a beloved figure in the larger community, touching many lives not just through his role as a priest but also as a mentor, friend, and confidant. Father Jon worked tirelessly to better the community and held many roles including the Chaplain of the Picayune Police Department, Picayune Lions Club President, Plush for Police organizer, Chairman of Façade and Signage Advisory Committee for the city of Picayune, on the Board of Directors for Christian Care, Highland Community Hospital Chaplain Advisory Committee, received the designation of Canon from the Anglican Church, board member of the Picayune Senior Center and is a Picayune Item contributing columnist. 

Throughout his life, Father Jon remained deeply devoted to his family, his faith, and his church. He lived with an unwavering commitment to Christ’s message of love, humility, and service, always placing the needs of others before his own. His legacy is one of grace, kindness, and unwavering devotion to the work of God.

He is mourned by his fellow clergy, and a wide circle of friends and colleagues who have been blessed by his presence. Celebration of Life will be held January 25 at Father Jon’s home from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., at 8009 Double Lake Rd in Picayune.  In lieu of flowers, it is requested that any donations be made to a charity of your choice in his honor.

Father Jon’s steadfast faith and loving heart will be missed by all who knew him, but his life serves as a testament to the power of God’s love and the enduring impact of a faithful servant.

May he rest in peace and rise in glory.