John Armistead was born June 14, 1941, in Mobile, Alabama. He earned a B.A. from Mississippi College in 1963, a Master of Divinity from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary in 1966, and a D. Min. Degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 1975.

While working as a minister, John traveled to Hawaii for four years. From here he moved to Tupelo, Mississippi, where he now lives. Mr. Armistead held the position of Pastor at Calvary Baptist Church until 1994.

While Christianity was John’s first priority, journalism became his second passion. After resigning from the church, John took the position as a religion columnist for the Tupelo Daily Journal newspaper. Mr. Armistead published his first novel, A Legacy of Vengeance, at the age of 52. Since then, he has published two mystery novels, Cruel as the Grave and A Homecoming for Murder, and two novels for teen-agers, The Return of Gabriel and The $66 Summer.

Mr. Armistead frequently travels to surrounding area schools, libraries, and art festivals. He is a member of the Society of Biblical Literature, The American Academy of Religion, Mystery Writers of America, and the Harley’s Owner Group.

Along with writing, John also enjoys fly-fishing, painting, and riding his Harley. He has recently retired from the Daily Journal to spend more time being a grandfather.