Jerome McKinnon Townsend, age 54, passed away April 8, 2012 in Fort Walton Beach, Fl. He was born on August 30, 1957 to Elizabeth and Azotus Lane.

Jerome was known as the Night Train Lane a Star running back for Choctawhatchee High School Class of 1976. He met Arlene Maree, they
were united in marriage and started a family. For those who knew and loved Jerome, knew him for his sense of humor, free spirit and quick witt.

He was a sub-contractor for the Mayflower moving company.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Lane and son, Jerrard Townsend.

Survived by his father, Azotus Lane, ex-wife, Arlene Townsend, sons, Jonathan Townsend , Billy Townsend, Daniel Asque and Terry Williams, longtime companion Jannette Jenkins.
Brothers, Bronco Lane, Hurlbert Lane, Vernon Lane and Garcia Lane, sisters, Annise Stanford, Edith Lane and Marcia Lane. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles. Special nieces include Akiva Ford and Dynisha Lane.

Memorial Service on Saturday, April 14, 2012 at 12:00 A.M. at Sylvania Heights Church of God and Christ, 304 Tilden Street, Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32548. Reverend Billy Townsend will be officiating. Burial will be private.
Emerald Coast Funeral Home, 113 Racetrack Road, N.E. has been entrusted with the arrangements.

 Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at www.emeraldcoastfuneralhome.com