LABOR TO REST. Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu: A Brother Beloved — In Thoughts and Deeds. By Pastor Kyev Tatum, New Mount Rose Missionary Baptist Church of Fort Worth



LABOR TO REST. Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu: A Brother Beloved — In Thoughts and Deeds. By Pastor Kyev Tatum, New Mount Rose Missionary Baptist Church of Fort Worth



Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the passing of our dear brother, Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu.


In 2019, I had the privilege of welcoming him to New Mount Rose Missionary Baptist Church as we confronted the painful reality of the shockingly low life expectancy in Fort Worth’s 76104 ZIP code. He came with compassion, clarity, and an unwavering commitment to healing. His presence was a blessing to our community. Sadly, his wisdom was ignored by city leaders unwilling to address the root causes—systemic racism and generational neglect—that continue to steal years and futures from our people.



I first met Brother Kunjufu in January 1987 at the Southwestern Student Leadership Conference at Texas A&M University. From that moment on, we walked together as brothers in the struggle for justice and dignity.




Dr. Kunjufu deeply understood the plight of Black people in America—especially our boys. He loved his people and devoted his life to uplifting humanity through education, empowerment, and truth-telling.


A prolific writer, educator, and publisher, Dr. Kunjufu authored more than 40 books, including national bestsellers like Countering the Conspiracy to Destroy Black Boys, Motivating Black Youth to Work, and To Be Popular or Smart. He traveled tirelessly, speaking in churches, schools, universities, and communities across the nation, offering powerful insights into education, culture, family, economics, and spiritual growth.



His message was simple, yet profound: We cannot solve non-academic problems with academic solutions—we must change school culture and uplift community life.



On April 21, 2025, Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu transitioned from labor to reward. Though his voice is now still, his words, teachings, and legacy continue to live within us—challenging us, guiding us, and strengthening us.



To honor his life, love, and legacy, we will gather on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM for the Ministers Justice Coalition memorial service at New Mount Rose Missionary Baptist Church, 2864 Mississippi Avenue, Fort Worth, Texas 76104, in the Kirk Franklin Chapel—the sacred space where he last spoke truth to power.



To a community suffering in silence, his voice was a light. To me, he was a pillar of hope, always pointing us toward purpose, truth, and healing.


Sleep well, dear brother. Your work lives on in us. We will see you in the morning.


— Pastor Kyev Tatum


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