The Journey Church community is grieving the devastating loss of Pastor Joshua R. Rene, who tragically died Tuesday evening in a motorcycle crash on South Congress Avenue. His passing has left his congregation, family, and friends heartbroken, as they struggle to process the sudden loss of a beloved pastor, mentor, and friend.
Journey Church released a statement expressing the depth of their sorrow:
“As a church community, we are heartbroken over the loss of our beloved Pastor Josh. Please pray with us for the Rene family and join us on Sunday for an official statement from Pastor Scott.”
Pastor Josh was known for his compassion, humility, and devotion to serving others. His presence was a steady source of encouragement to many, and his absence now leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him.
The Crash: What Investigators Reported
According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred around 6:50 p.m. Tuesday in the 6200 block of South Congress Avenue, just west of Atlantis Plaza.
Investigators say:
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Vehicle 1: A 2003 GMC Sierra driven southbound by Clifton Donald Jackson, 58, of Stuart
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Vehicle 2: A 2013 Harley-Davidson motorcycle operated northbound by Joshua R. Rene, 37, of Lantana
Jackson moved into the inside left-turn lane to turn east into the plaza. At the same time, Pastor Rene was traveling northbound in the outside lane on his motorcycle.
The crash report states that Jackson “failed to identify V2 and made a left turn in front of V1,” placing the motorcycle directly in the path of the pickup truck. The front passenger side of the GMC struck the motorcycle, throwing Pastor Rene from the bike. He landed in the outside northbound lane and suffered fatal injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities confirmed that Rene was wearing a helmet at the time of the collision. Jackson, who was wearing a seatbelt, was not injured. After the impact, the pickup truck came to a stop at the entrance of the plaza.
Deputies noted that the crash occurred at a T-intersection without traffic controls, and the investigation remains ongoing.
A Pastor Remembered: Gentle, Loving, Devoted
While investigators continue their work, the community Pastor Josh served is left mourning the loss of a man who profoundly shaped countless lives.
Known for his warm smile and quiet strength, Pastor Josh embodied steady faith and genuine care. His sermons uplifted, his counsel comforted, and his love for people was unmistakable. Whether preaching on Sunday or sharing a conversation during the week, he carried a softness of heart that made others feel seen and valued.
Journey Church members remember him as a man of integrity — a shepherd who guided with grace and loved without hesitation. For many, he was not just a pastor, but a friend, brother, and spiritual anchor.
A Community in Mourning
Pastor Josh’s death has shaken the congregation, who are now turning to prayer, faith, and community support to navigate their grief. The church has invited members and supporters to gather on Sunday, where Pastor Scott will deliver an official statement and offer space for collective mourning and remembrance.
The Rene family is especially in need of prayers as they face the unimaginable pain of losing a husband, father, son, or brother. Members of the church have begun circulating messages of love and condolences, honoring Pastor Josh’s memory and reflecting on the countless lives he touched.
Honoring Pastor Josh’s Legacy
Though his life was cut short, the legacy he leaves behind is powerful. He lived with purpose, poured into others with intention, and carried the love of Christ into every space he entered. His teachings, kindness, and spirit will continue to guide those he served.
As the community mourns, they also celebrate the life of a man who led with compassion, served with humility, and loved with his whole heart.
Rest in peace, Pastor Josh Rene.
Your impact lives on.
Your faith endures.
Your memory will forever be a blessing.