April 19, 2024
PALMETTO —Dr. James H. "Jim" Griffith, 89, executive director emeritus of the Georgia Baptist Convention, died early this morning at Southwest Christian Hospice in Union City. He had been admitted to the facility on Wednesday in failing health.
Griffith served the state convention in the top leadership role for 11 years from 1981 until 1992. At his retirement at the annual convention meeting in his native Macon he was lauded for being "people-oriented, Christ-centered, and Great Commission-focused."
Griffith had a successful career as a journalist, beginning as an office boy at the Macon Telegraph and working his way up through the ranks. His career there culminated with recognition as sports editor and nationally syndicated columnist. He later served as a columnist for The Christian Index.
Prior to his executive leadership role he served for 24 years in various levels of denominational service. That service included two terms as president of the state convention, two years as chairman of the state Executive Committee, and twice as first vice-president of the state convention.
In Southern Baptist life he served twice on the Committee on Boards and for eight years as trustee of the Sunday School Board, now LifeWay Christian Resources.
He authored three books.
Griffith served as pastor of Beech Haven Baptist Church in Athens for 14 years as well as First Baptist Church of St. Simons Island, First Baptist Church of Gray, and Lakeside Baptist Church of North Myrtle Beach, SC.
He is survived by his wife, Mildred "Mimi" Scott Roads Griffith, originally from West Palm Beach, FL. Children included three daughters.
The funeral arrangements for Dr. James Griffith :
Visitation: Sunday, May 10, from 6-8 p.m. at McKoon Funeral Home, 38 Jackson Street, Newnan, GA.
Funeral: Monday, May 11, at 11 a.m. at Providence Baptist Church, 6402 Campbellton-Redwine Road, Palmetto, GA. The interment will be at Riverside Cemetery in Macon at 4 p.m. on Monday.
