Co-founder & Visionary, Chairman of the Board Emeritus (Ret.)June 21, 1959 – February 15, 2025
Some lives are simply too extraordinary to fade. Rev. Johnathan A. Stanley was one of those rare souls— a man of unwavering faith, boundless generosity, and deep compassion, Rev. Stanley’s life was a testament to service, kindness, and the power of human connection.
A Life of Purpose
Born on June 21, 1959, in Medford, MA, to Clara Dec and Angelo Vorazzi, Johnathan’s journey was marked by extraordinary passion and purpose. From the tender age of four, he discovered a love for music, a gift that would remain a constant in his life. By five, he had learned to play the guitar, and throughout his youth, his exceptional vocal talents won him numerous state and regional awards. His love for music carried into adulthood, where he was a proud member of the Acapella Choir in college, even recording an album at the Gaithers Trio Studio in Indiana.
Beyond music, Johnathan was a man of adventure, cherishing time spent hiking and camping, always embracing the beauty of the world around him. His beloved 17-year-old Beagle Dachshund, Colby, was a steadfast companion through the years, bringing him immense joy.
A Legacy of Compassion
As the co-founder and visionary of Compassion Advocacy Network, Rev. Stanley was a force for good, dedicating his life to serving the most vulnerable. Through his leadership, the organization flourished, securing donations, expanding community outreach, and ensuring that those in need—whether at-risk children, nursing home residents, or individuals requiring medical assistance—received the care and support they deserved. His efforts included:
Founder & visionary of a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, leading with passion and purpose.
Fundraised over $100,000 in a single year, creating life-changing opportunities for those in need.
Visited 11 nursing homes monthly, personally delivering ‘Sweet’ heart bags filled with essentials and uplifting spirits.
Providing school supplies, eyeglasses, wheelchairs, and other necessities to those in need, ensuring dignity and care for all.
Developed ongoing partnerships with businesses and donors to keep his mission thriving.
Attended weekly business networking events, forming valuable connections to further his mission.
Met with an average of 33 vendors per week, securing donations averaging $150 per event to support the organization’s work.
Actively developed new sponsors and donors daily, using a mix of cold calls, warm outreach, and business collaborations to grow support.
His work was more than charity; it was a mission rooted in love, faith, and an unyielding belief in the goodness of people.
A Commitment to Learning & Excellence
Johnathan believed in the power of education and lifelong learning, and his academic achievements reflected his dedication to excellence:
1976: Graduated with honors from Wareham High School, Medford, MA.
1980: Earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Pastoral Counseling from Eastern Nazarene College, Quincy, MA, graduating with honors.
1981: Obtained a Master of Communicational Arts from Regent University.
His education was not just about gaining knowledge but about using that knowledge to uplift, empower, and serve others.
A Life Rooted in Faith
Rev. Stanley’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. A former United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI) minister, he served on the Praise and Worship team at Norfolk Apostolic Church in Norfolk, VA. Even when faced with life’s greatest challenge—his diagnosis of throat cancer in 2022—his faith never wavered. He fought bravely, inspiring those around him with his resilience and unwavering trust in God.
On February 15, 2025, at the age of 65, Rev. Stanley completed his earthly journey, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to uplift lives for generations to come.
Honoring His Legacy
His legacy is woven into the very fabric of Compassion Advocacy Network, in every act of kindness, in every life lifted, and in the continued mission to serve those who need it most. In his memory, we shall carry on the mission, to extend the same kindness he embodied, and to ensure that no one—especially our most vulnerable—is forgotten.
We celebrate who he was, what he built, and the love he poured into the world. His story doesn’t end here—it lives on through us, through every act of kindness, every hand extended in service, and every heart that chooses compassion.
Rest well, Rev. Johnathan A. Stanley. Your vision, your kindness, and your love for humanity will forever be our guiding light.
Join Us In Celebrating His Legacy.
Public Viewing:
Monday, February 24, 2025
2:00 Pm - 6:00 PM
Graves Funeral Home
1631 Chruch Street
Norfolk, VA 23504
Celebration of Life Service:
Tuesday, February 25, 2025,
1:00 PM
Norfolk Apostolic Church
3131 Azalea Garden Road
Norfolk, VA 23513
Refreshments to follow.
Miss u so much Rev... U will never be forgotten. Love u forever, LORNA BETH
John Was a beautiful soul.I remember him talking about his dream.When I work with him for over 15 years at contract companies.He was just such a light to the office
Even though He was dealing with his own stuff.He was still a beacon of light to everyone in the office