Saxton, Quartzsite pastor, dies unexpectedly

Jeffrey Saxton, pastor of Quartzsite Southern Baptist Church in Quartzsite, died unexpectedly on March 10. He was 63.

Before becoming pastor of Quartzsite Southern Baptist Church in 2018, Saxton was pastor of Kingsway Baptist Church, Ringgold, Louisiana, for 23 years.

“Pastor Jeff had a great heart for reaching his community with the gospel,” said David Johnson, executive director of the Arizona Mission Network of Southern Baptists. “Pastor Jeff planned and organized the annual outreach and revival to reach winter visitors who flock to Quartzsite every year.

“When the public school in Quartzsite closed, he led his church to open a Christian school for the kids in the community to attend. He served as the headmaster of the school and taught the Bible to students every day in a chapel service.”

Quartzsite Southern Christian Academy was designed to help students strive for excellence in every area, including character development, academic achievement, intellectual and physical development, and social interaction.

“Jeff was a great, fun and amazing friend,” said Bruce Cannon, director of River Valley Mission Network. “He had an infectious laugh and a great smile. He loved sharing the gospel and helping others. He was committed to prayer, study, ethics, relationships and was well loved inside and outside his church.”

Students and church members described Saxton as kind, selfless, thoughtful, generous and showing unfailing love for people.

“He was dearly loved by his church and family,” Johnson said. “His death is a huge loss for the church and the community. He will be greatly missed!”

Saxton leaves behind Karen, his wife of 43 years, along with six children and their families.

A memorial service was held March 16 at Quartzsite Southern Baptist Church.

A funeral service will be held March 23 at Southland Christian Camp in Ringgold, Louisiana, followed by interment in Springhill Church Cemetery.