The Rev. Elmer Golden, Jr., 79, of Statesboro, formerly of Tifton, passed away Wednesday, December 30, 2020, at East Georgia Regional Medical Center in Statesboro. A graveside service will be held for the Rev. Golden at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 5, 2021, at Union Grove Church of God Cemetery 4144 U.S. Highway 41 South in Tifton, where he will be laid to rest. The Rev. Denise Percival and the Rev. Bill Harper will officiate.
Born June 30, 1941 in Carrollton, Rev. Golden was the son of the late Rev. Elmer Golden, Sr. and Geneva Dorough Golden. He was also preceded in death by one sister, Pam Taylor. He served in many capacities with the South Georgia Church of God, including the State Council, the State Youth Board, the State Evangelism and Home Missions Board; he was chairman of the State Education Board and served four years as State Evangelism and Home Missions Director. He also served as Representative over Georgia and Florida for LESEA (Lester Sumrall's Evangelistic Association). He was a veteran of the United States Air Force.
Rev. Golden is survived by two daughters and one son-in-law, LaShea Golden Tatum and husband, George of Blackshear and Kecia Golden of Tifton; one sister, Linda Hill of Tifton; and three grandchildren, Savannah Rigby, Heath Highsmith and wife, Katelyn, and Hagan Highsmith.
Flowers will be accepted or memorial gifts may be made to Bowen-Donaldson Home for Funerals to assist with funeral expenses.