The Greenville, South Carolina community is in mourning following the tragic death of Reverend Dr. Justin Gilreath, Senior Pastor of Buncombe Street United Methodist Church. Justin, 44, died by suicide, leaving a profound void in the hearts of his congregation, family, and the many individuals he served throughout his life. He was a loving husband to Jenny Horton Gilreath and a devoted father to their two daughters, Meakin and Griffin. His passing has been met with shock and grief, as those who knew him are grappling with the loss of a man who dedicated his life to faith, family, and community.
Born and raised in South Carolina, Justin Gilreath’s journey was one shaped by a strong sense of faith and a commitment to service. He graduated from Blue Ridge High School and went on to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education at Clemson University. It was during his time at Clemson that Justin began to feel the call to ministry, which set him on a path that would define his life’s work.
After completing his undergraduate degree, Justin attended Duke Divinity School, where he earned his Master of Divinity degree. His passion for Christian community and church unity led him to further his education at Erskine Theological Seminary, where he earned his Doctor of Ministry degree. His doctoral work focused on the role of the church in fostering togetherness and understanding, an issue he deeply cared about throughout his ministry.
Justin’s ministry career began at Piedmont United Methodist Church, where he served as pastor for nine years. His time at Piedmont was marked by his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Justin was known for his approach to ministry, which blended the traditional aspects of the church with innovative ideas that made faith relevant to contemporary life. His messages resonated deeply with his congregation, and he quickly earned the trust and respect of those he served.
In 2011, Justin moved to Buncombe Street United Methodist Church, where he initially served as Associate Pastor for eight years. His leadership and dedication to the church’s mission were evident as he worked alongside the congregation to build a unified and compassionate community. In 2019, Justin was named Senior Pastor, a role in which he continued to inspire and guide the church with a sense of vision and purpose.
As Senior Pastor, Justin’s leadership was transformative. He emphasized the importance of the church as a place of healing, hope, and unity. His messages focused on the power of Christian fellowship and the transformative nature of the body of Christ. Under his guidance, Buncombe Street Methodist Church grew into a vibrant community that embraced both tradition and innovation. Justin believed that the church should be a place where everyone, regardless of background or struggles, could find a sense of belonging.
Above all, Justin was a family man. He lived with his wife Jenny and their daughters, Meakin and Griffin, on a farm in Travelers Rest, South Carolina. Justin cherished his time with his family, finding peace and joy in the simple pleasures of life. Whether spending time on their farm or enjoying family gatherings, Justin’s love for his wife and children was evident in everything he did. His devotion as a husband and father was as strong as his commitment to his faith and ministry.
His family remembers Justin not just as a great pastor, but as a man who exuded kindness, humility, and a deep love for those around him. He had an infectious sense of humor and was known for his unwavering support of others. Whether helping a parishioner through a difficult time or offering words of encouragement to his staff and colleagues, Justin was always there for those in need. His legacy as a compassionate and selfless individual will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
While Justin was a source of strength and guidance to many, his tragic death is a stark reminder of the silent struggles that many face, even those who seem to have it all. Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, can affect anyone, regardless of their outward appearance or accomplishments. In the wake of Justin’s death, his family, church, and community are encouraging open conversations about mental health and the importance of seeking help in times of distress.
Justin’s passing serves as a call to action for greater awareness and support for those dealing with mental health challenges. His family and the Buncombe Street United Methodist Church have urged the community to embrace the importance of mental health care, offering support to those who may be struggling in silence.
In honoring the life of Reverend Dr. Justin Gilreath, the Buncombe Street Methodist Church community is coming together to celebrate his legacy and the impact he made during his time with them. A memorial service will be held at Buncombe Street United Methodist Church, where friends, family, and members of the congregation will gather to remember and pay tribute to the man who touched so many lives.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to mental health initiatives and community outreach programs that align with Justin’s enduring commitment to service. The funds will go toward supporting individuals and families who face mental health challenges, helping to carry on Justin’s legacy of compassion and care for others.
Rev. Dr. Justin Gilreath’s death is a tragic loss for his family, his congregation, and the community at large. He was a man who embodied faith, kindness, and a genuine love for others. His leadership as Senior Pastor of Buncombe Street United Methodist Church transformed the lives of those who were fortunate to be in his presence, and his impact will be felt for generations to come.
Though he is no longer with us, Justin’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the words he preached, and the way he led by example. His unwavering faith, his commitment to his family, and his dedication to serving others will continue to inspire all who knew him.
As we reflect on Justin’s life, we are reminded of the importance of kindness, compassion, and the need to support one another, particularly when it comes to mental health. Justin Gilreath’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and his life will continue to inspire us to seek unity, understanding, and love in all that we do. May we honor his legacy by carrying forward the lessons he taught us—of love, faith, and the transformative power of community.
