Lady J was born Jacquelynn Joy Young, July 27th, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She was the second of three children of Bishop Richard and Arlene Young. She is a graduate of East Kentwood High School, also in Grand Rapids.
Our First Lady
About
Our First Lady
Her Story
Lady Jacquie Rayford is a third generation First Lady. Bethel Pentecostal Church, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, was founded in 1950 by her paternal and maternal grandparents, the late Bishop Horace M., and the late Mildred Young, along with the late Deacon Neal Smith and the late Mrs. Leona Smith. Bethel is the church Lady J attended throughout her youth, under the leadership of the late Bishop William C. Abney. She was there until her parents moved the family to Steubenville, Ohio, when Bishop Young became pastor of Zion Apostolic Church.
After successfully leading Zion Apostolic Church to heights previously thought to be impossible, Bishop Young accepted a pastoral assignment at Pentecostal Assembly of Fort Worth, now The Chosen Vessel Cathedral, in Fort Worth, Texas. It was in Fort Worth, Texas, that Lady J. and Pastor Rayford met.
During the 21 years she and her husband lived in Texas, Lady J was the director of the Pastoral care ministry (Nurses) and collaborated closely with her father. Her gentle presence earned her high praise from many of the world’s most renowned speakers. During that time, she also collaborated closely with her husband in building the youth ministry and supported his music ministry. She was a member of the Praise Dance ministry and the Ministers’ and Deacons wives’ ministries as well.
Lady J is the proud mother of two children, and Gammy to three grandchildren. Both of their children have completed college. Her tireless support has been a staple in the lives of those she loves. Her dedication to faith and family was apparent as she eagerly embraced the call of God to relocate from Texas to Sun Prairie, Wisconsin in 2007.
However, more than all these truths, she is a powerful praiser, always giving God her all. In 2019, Lady J once again eagerly supported her husband and became the first lady of the historic, Church of Christ of the Apostolic Faith, in Columbus, Ohio.
Lady J’s elegance and beauty are obvious. Her bright blue eyes, radiant smile and compelling warmth are unavoidable. CCAF, and the Greater Columbus area have truly been enhanced since The Lord sent Lady J to this area.