Reverend George Townsend

Childersburg, Alabama - Reverend George Townsend, a devoted servant of God and beloved family man, peacefully transitioned from his earthly journey on Monday, January 26, 2026.

Reverend Townsend was born on March 24, 1946, to the blessed union of the late O.C. Townsend and the late Vada Greyhouse Townsend. From an early age, he demonstrated a heart for service, faith, and community—qualities that would guide him throughout his life.

He faithfully served the Lord for more than 25 years as a minister of the Gospel. His ministry began at Mount Olive Baptist Church in Childersburg, Alabama, where he answered God’s calling while attending and serving the church. He later advanced as pastor-elect at Southside Missionary Baptist Church in Talladega, Alabama. Reverend Townsend eventually united with Mountain Home Missionary Baptist Church in Sycamore, Alabama, under the leadership of Reverend Robert Duncan. While there, he continued to serve faithfully while pastoring Early Rose Baptist Church until declining health required him to step away from active ministry. His preaching was heartfelt, his teaching sincere, and his commitment unwavering.

In addition to his spiritual calling, Reverend Townsend was a dedicated and hardworking provider. He was employed at Avondale Mills for 43 years before retiring and later worked at Wilson Brothers/APAC until his health declined. His strong work ethic and dependability were evident in every role he held.

Reverend Townsend shared 51 loving years of marriage with his devoted wife, the late Hattie Ervin Townsend. Their union was blessed with three children, whom he cherished deeply. He was known for his warm spirit, infectious laughter, and ability to bring smiles to everyone he encountered. In his leisure time, he found joy in fishing, golfing, and above all, preaching and sharing the Word of God. His life was a reflection of love, joy, and service.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Hattie E. Townsend; grandson, Ameir Townsend; parents, O.C. and Vada Townsend; brothers, John Townsend and Charles C. Townsend; and sisters, Doris Harris, Fannie Gamble, and Sue Townsend.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving son, Kelvin Townsend of Decatur, Alabama; daughters, Heather McCaulley of Harvest, Alabama, and Tamala Townsend of Childersburg, Alabama; grandchildren, Tristian Garrett of Moody, Alabama, Shekeva Pope of Talladega, Alabama, Amber (Dontavious) Truss of New Market, AL, and   Joshua Townsend, both of Athens, Alabama; brother, Claude (Peachy) Riggins; sisters-in-law, Bettye Townsend of Sylacauga, Alabama, Elizabeth Ebron of Washington, DC, Francis Townsend of Childersburg, AL, and Gwendolyn Jeffries of Sylacauga, Alabama; brothers-in-law, Sam (Rose) Ervin, Fred Ervin, Steve Ervin, Broderick Ervin, Eddie Ervin, and Theophlis Ervin, all of Sylacauga, Alabama; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, church family, and dear friends.

Reverend George Townsend will be remembered as a faithful servant, a loving husband and father, a joyful soul, and a man whose life preached louder than words. His legacy of faith, laughter, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

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