Founder of JCountryman Gift Books and beloved Thomas Nelson publisher leaves a lasting legacy of faith, innovation, and more than 30 million books published
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — (November 5, 2026) — HarperCollins Christian Publishing (HCCP) and Thomas Nelson mourn the passing of Jack Countryman, visionary publisher, bestselling author, and founder of JCountryman Gift Books, whose remarkable career helped shape the Christian publishing industry and brought biblical encouragement to millions of readers around the world.
Countryman’s publishing journey began in 1982 at the kitchen table of his home, where he and his wife, Marsha, created God’s Promises for Your Every Need. That first book laid the foundation for JCountryman Gift Books and helped establish a new category of Scripture-centered inspirational gift books.
Over more than four decades, Countryman helped pioneer the inspirational gift book category, publishing more than 30 million books and authoring over 100 titles. His books, including the enduring God’s Promises series, brought hope, comfort, and biblical encouragement to generations of readers.
In 1994, Countryman joined Thomas Nelson, where his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for ministry continued to transform the gift book business. His contributions extended beyond his own writing, as he helped develop and publish works by influential Christian voices, including Billy Graham, Anne Graham Lotz, O. S. Hawkins, and Hank Hanegraaff.
In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, Countryman received the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association’s prestigious Jordon Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014. He retired as Publisher Emeritus of Thomas Nelson Gift in 2024, leaving behind an enduring legacy of publishing excellence and mentorship.
“Few people have made such a huge impact in Christian publishing as Jack Countryman,” said Mark Schoenwald, CEO of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. “He has been a tremendous visionary, leader, and publisher. Jack led the way to create the category of inspirational gift books. It has truly been a privilege to know and work with him.”
“Jack was a brilliant mentor and cherished friend. His deep faith, passion for publishing, love of life, and wonderful sense of humor left a lasting impression on me and so many others who had the privilege of working alongside him,” said Laura Minchew, Senior Vice President and Group Publisher of the Children’s and Gift Book Group at HarperCollins Christian Publishing.
For Countryman, publishing was never simply about selling books. It was about sharing God’s Word and creating resources that could make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
As he once encouraged fellow publishers:
“If you want to make a difference, create books that will touch lives and change lives. You may never know the impact you could have on someone through this good work.”
His commitment to faith, generosity, and excellence continues to influence the mission of Thomas Nelson and HarperCollins Christian Publishing.
The HarperCollins Christian Publishing family extends its deepest condolences to Countryman’s wife, Marsha, his sons, Jason and Brett, his friends, colleagues, and the countless readers whose lives have been touched by his work.
HarperCollins Christian Publishing
HarperCollins Christian Publishing (HCCP) is the world’s leading Christian publisher and home to renowned brands Thomas Nelson and Zondervan. It also operates various digital platforms, including FaithGateway, ChurchSource, and Bible Gateway—the world’s largest Christian website. HCCP specializes in bestselling Bibles, inspirational books, children’s books, academic resources, curriculum, gift books, audio, and digital content crafted for the Christian market. Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, with an office in Grand Rapids, Michigan, HCCP is part of HarperCollins Publishers. For more information, visit HarperCollinsChristian.com.
Media Contact:
Chasity Edwards, Publicity Director
Chasity.Edwards@harpercollins.com
