Biography: Mark L. Green valiantly entered the threshold of eternal life on Sunday, September 20, 2020. He will forever be celebrated as a compassionate man who was a loving model of Christian living anchored in the Lord.
God gifted the world with this gentle giant on January 19, 1956 in Winston Salem, North Carolina to the late Naomi Ruth and Brody. New York City would be where Mark established a legacy of service to his family, community, and his church.
While attending Taft High School (Class of ‘75), Mark’s determined heart was drawn to his queen, Valerie Coleman. These two would go on to epitomize the definition of “Black Love” and display excellence in every aspect for more than fifty years. Hand and hand, he and his soul mate would create sincere, precious memories, growing together in deep respect and joy.
Family was firmly housed at the center of Mark Green’s purpose. His hands, mind and heart were rarely still when working fiercely pouring love into building community. Mark made every
interaction special, eagerly and proudly investing in limitless dreams, celebrations and recoveries of so many people during his lifetime. His career in the Department of Education led him to DeWItt Clinton High School where he amplified the voices of young people by sharing the value of learning, encouraged self expression with dignity and the responsibility to set personal goals and courageously move towards them for over fifteen years.
Mark was an amazing bass player who understood the power of music and it’s impact. From
playing gigs locally and touring nationally, his smooth, chill personality strummed through the notes of every song he played. He shared many experiences with an extended musical family that had a special place in his heart adding to the family tree. This amazing man made the life changing decision to join Canaan Baptist Church of Christ in 1992 along with his wife and children after an initial invitation to attend Sunday service by his then co-worker and dear friend Irene Hicks in 1990.
Pastor Walker’s words touched his heart and moved him to action.
Soon after, he began lending his voice singing with the Male Chorus and later joined the Fishermen’s Fellowship. Anna Caldwell knew his talent could be used to enhance the music ministry and invited him to minister with the Children’s and Celestial choirs. This bassist then served with the Voices of Canaan, the Male Chorus, WTW, Sanctuary Choir, Mass Choir, the Men’s Ministry and annual Cafe Canaan events.
In addition to his wonderful ability to serve the church through music, he also committed to advocating for the youth of Canaan Baptist Church of Christ. Around 2014 this extremely
knowledgeable man became Assistant Superintendent for the Saturday Church School. This
incredible servant of God’s success was deeply rooted in lifting up others around him.
In the presence of God, Mark was joined in heaven by his grandmother, mother, brother Wesley and sister Essie. Mark Green is survived by his beloved wife Valerie, his sisters Rubystine Peace, Ernestine Jones, Ederrina Green, his brother, Nigel Green, his seven children, and a host of grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Mark was a generational curse breaker and reaped generational blessings for his family.
Mark was a doubt slayer and planted kindness, confidence and words of wisdom.
Mark was soft spoken yet calculated and thoughtful using silence as tool that speaks volumes.
Rest easy king. Job well done. We got it from here.