ELECT #25
MEET JAMES
WORKING TOGETHER TO BETTER OUR COMMUNITY
As a lifelong resident of Natchitoches Parish, my heart beats in harmony with the rhythm of our community. There is no other place I'd rather call home, and it is with great pride that I share this journey with my wife of 36 years, Andrea Coutee Below, a dedicated Registered Nurse in Public Health. Together, we are blessed with four exceptional children and seven beautiful grandchildren, each a testament to the richness of our familial bonds.
My educational journey through the Natchitoches and Caddo Parish Public School Systems and Seminary laid the foundation for a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. With degrees in Bachelor of Christian Counseling, Master of Chaplaincy, and Doctor of Ministry, I bring a wealth of understanding and empathy to the challenges our community faces.
I have been deeply woven into the fabric of our community for 60 years with 38 years of ministry as an Associate Minister of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church (MBC) since 1986, Former Pastor of St. Davis MBC for 12 years, Pastor of Saints of Christ Worship Center for eight years and current Pastor of Friendship Baptist Church.
I have 10 years in law enforcement as a former Civil Defense Deputy at the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office and former Correctional Officer at both Natchitoches Parish Detention Center and Winn Correctional Center. I have 15 years of previous management experience as the Manager/Regional Manager with Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana. In this supervisory role, I was responsible for the management of seven Goodwill stores and a 6.5-million-dollar budget. This has equipped me with a unique blend of experiences to address the diverse needs of our city.
Presently, I hold the position of Chaplain of Religious Programs and Services at the Winn Correctional Facility. As chaplain, I have worked with individuals from 40 different countries and 25 religious backgrounds, fostering understanding and unity.
Former positions held: Vice President 12th District Baptist Association, Vice President Natchitoches Voters and Civic League, President Natchitoches Ministerial Fellowship, Chaplain Dawn of Light Lodge #22, and Board Member Natchitoches Community Improvement Foundation.
As you can see, I have always been involved in the community and have a desire to help people. My passion is for improving our Historic City and making Natchitoches a better place to live