James Earl Jones, Known for Voice of Darth Vader and Mufasa, Dead at 93

For six decades, generations of Americans were mesmerized by an iconic voice. Whether it’s Simba, Darth Vader, James Greer, or other memorable roles, James Earl Jones provided the performance that made him the most iconic actor in Hollywood. He earned the coveted “EGOT” slate of acting awards: an Emmy (for TV), Grammy (for music), Oscar (for movies), and Tony (for the stage)

Sadly, James Earl Jones died last week at 93 years old. Yet, his acting career is not what truly defines him. Rather, it is his Catholic faith that has grounded him. Some may not know that he came home and never looked back.

In a 1986 interview, Jones shared that he was drawn to Catholicism thanks to his classmates. He recalled how he was drawn to it in high school. The priest would instruct him. By the time he was a member of the army during the Korean War, he came home.

In his acting career, Jones made some unique contributions to acting that were intertwined with his faith.

The Greatest Adventure: Stories from the Bible

Those who grew up in the 1980s may recall a series from the same production that brought us Scooby Doo, The Flintstones, The Jetsons, and many other memorable cartoons. Hanna-Barbera would go the distance in providing a series that highlighted the critical moments of the bible.

In the episode of Moses, Jones was the voice of Pharoah. See it here.

New Testament Bible: King James Version

Jones would narrate the entire New Testament for the audio version of the Bible. Listen to it here

Gimme Shelter

At one point, Jones thought of being a priest after he left the army. Then, he pursued his passion, which was acting. He did overcome a stuttering issue.

He never knew that he would portray a priest named Father Frank McCarthy in the 2013 Movie “Gimme Shelter”. His character would help Apple live in a shelter for single women who are pregnant. With his help, he would help her give birth to a daughter named Hope.

For the soul of James Earl Jones, we pray, eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord. And let the perpetual light, shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen