Vivian J. Bush: A faithful servant of God

Vivian Bush
Person of the Week

By Dorothy Inman-Johnson
Special to the Outlook

Vivian Bush was born and raised in Tallahassee. She is the daughter of Thomas and Annie Jones. She received her education from Leon High School, Tallahassee Community College, and Troy University. She has been married to Derrick Bush for 24 years. They are the parents of three  college students, Jasmyn and Precious at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Georgia, and Jalyn at Florida A & M University.

 
She is a faithful member, volunteer, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the recently chartered Loved by Jesus Family Church, under the leadership of Pastor Lee B. Johnson. In a relatively short time, she, the Board, charter members, and the Pastor have created a strong structure for the church through active ministries and financial stability. She is a devout servant of God who exemplifies her Christian values through her love, care, and service to others. She has presided over the development of the church’s mission statement and policies, the establishment of a communications network with members to ensure their wellbeing, and worked tirelessly with her husband and other members on fundraising projects for the future financial viability of the church.

 
In 2011, Vivian became extremely ill and was not sure if she would survive. She credits her recovery to “God’s continuing grace and mercy” and the significant support from people God placed in her life. Today, even though she continues her battle with illness, no one would ever know from her bright smile, sunny disposition, genuine love and attention she gives to others; without showing a hint of her own struggles.

 
Beyond her current work and devotion to her church, Vivian worked as an accountant for 20 years, and brings those valuable skills to her work at the church. She, also, served as Youth Director for 15 years at the Bryant Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Reno, Georgia. In that role, she developed and coordinated projects that strengthened the connections between youth and the church. One project she is particularly proud of was a Youth Summit for the community that featured participation and speakers from Troy University, law enforcement, the medical community, and the financial industry. She is, also, a dedicated volunteer for the Farm Share Program.

 
Vivian’s spirit of giving is an example for us all. She is one of our community’s unsung heroes and the Capital Outlook Newspaper’s Person of the Week.
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