A Celebration of life

We honor the life and legacy of the late Prophetess Ada Mae Bristol, a devoted servant of God.

She was born on Friday, March 14, 1941, in Garfield, Georgia, to Tom and Rachel Watson. She began her education in the Lyons, Georgia school system. As an adult she achieved her dream of finishing high school and obtained her G.E.D. in Clay County, Florida.

Blessed with a coloratura soprano voice, she loved to sing, often lifting the spirits of those around her in both word and song. She had an unconditional love for her family and strongly encouraged them to have a personal relationship with The LORD. She was an optimist who found good in everyone and every situation. She had a great sense of humor. In her youth she enjoyed playing softball. She also had a fondness for watching wrestling and football, the color blue, and the soothing sound of rain on a tin roof — simple joys that reflected the depth and warmth of her spirit. But most of all she loved reading and teaching the Bible. Her favorite scripture was Psalm 121.

At the tender age of 11, Prophetess Bristol gave her life to The LORD, and not long after, her prophetic gift was revealed. She faithfully used this divine calling throughout her life to minister, discern, and support others in their spiritual journeys.

A woman of conviction and courage, Prophetess Bristol was active in the Civil Rights Movement. She was a Sabbath Keeper whose ministry journey began when she was ordained Associate Pastor and later Pastor by Apostle Clayton D. Martin, Sr. A decade ago, in obedience to a divine directive, she founded Family Affair In Touch (F.A.I.TH.) Ministries, a ministry she led under the guiding principle: "A House of Prayer for All People." She took her calling seriously — often tarrying through the night in prayer for others — and was known for her unwavering generosity and compassion for those in need.

Prophetess Bristol's life was one of prayer, purpose, and prophetic power. She was the epitome of love. She leaves behind a profound spiritual legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.

She was preceded in death by her husband John A. Bristol; her parents Tom and Rachel Watson; her infant daughter, Mariah Byrd and her siblings — Eliza Watson, Jessie Dixon Sr., Wilma Watson, Arnetha Dixon, Annie Gooden, Inez Bobbit, Alonzo Watson and her beloved niece and prayer partner Marionette Watson.

She leaves to cherish her memory a brother Tom Watson, Jr., a cousin Jennie Jackson Dukes along with a lasting legacy through her loving children: Joyce O. Byrd-Strozier (Rodney), Marietta E. Byrd-Bell (Henry), Gregory L. Byrd (Sebrena), Jeffery D. Byrd, Corinta V. Simpson, Yolanda C. McElhaney (Larry), Eugenia A. Smith, LaKisha N. Moore, Shakita M. Bristol, and Jeckonia K. Bristol (Stephanie); a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and devoted friends — including Ms. Patricia Thomas and her dear friend of over 50 years, Mrs. Betty Watkins.

On Sunday, August 17, 2025, Prophetess Bristol transitioned peacefully from this life and went home to be with her LORD. She was loved by many and she will truly be missed.

Proverbs 3:5-7l

Mrs. Bristol may be viewed on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Greater Zion Grove Baptist Church, 6317 118th Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32244, from 5:00 p.m. Until 7:00 p.m.  Funeral Services will be held 11:00 a.m., Friday, September 12, 2025, at Greater Zion Grove Baptist Church, 6317 118th Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32244 and the interment will be in Magnolia Cemetery, 1040 Kingsley Avenue, Orange Park, Florida. The repast will be held at Greater Zion Grove Missionary Baptist Church Fellowship Hall immediately following the Interment.

Carthage Chapel Funeral Home, Inc., 929 West Beaver Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32204