Quinten George Gresham, Jr.

Reverend Dr. Quinten George Gresham, Jr Obituary “Let The Work I’ve Done Speak for Me” Rev. Dr. Quinten George Gresham Jr., a man of profound faith and enduring love, was born on July 20, 1943, in Savannah, Georgia, to Quinten George Gresham Sr. and Emma Rene Rhodes Gresham.As the eldest of five children, Quinten’s life was marked by devotion to family, faith, and service. On December 22, 2024, at the age of 81, he peacefully transitioned to eternal rest at Emory Hospital in Decatur, Georgia, surrounded by love and guided by God’s hand. A Journey of Excellence and ServiceRev. Gresham’s family moved to Talladega, Alabama, during his senior year of high school. He graduated as Salutatorian from Westside High School in 1961 and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, with a minor in Social Psychology, from Talladega College in 1965. While at college, he pledged Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated beginning a lifetime of brotherhood and community impact.In 1968, he obtained a Master of Social Work from Atlanta University, receiving recognition from Newsweek Magazine for his groundbreaking work with methadone and mental health patients in West Philadelphia. His thirst for knowledge and dedication to ministry led him to earn a Doctor of Ministry specializing in Addiction Counseling from Trinity Theological Seminary in 2000. Faithful Ministry and CareerRev. Gresham was called to ministry in 1974 while serving as an assistant professor of Social Work and Sociology and Director of Criminal Justice at Talladega College. Ordained as an A.M.E. Deacon in 1980 and as an Itinerant Elder in 1982, he devoted 32 years to pastoral leadership, serving churches in Alabama and Georgia. His final pastoral appointment was at Mt. Carmel A.M.E. Church in Atlanta, where he led for 16 years, leaving the church debt-free and spiritually enriched.In parallel with his ministry, Rev. Gresham spent 44 years in social rehabilitative work. Notably, he served as Clinical Director and Vice President of Programs at Families First, the largest social service agency in the Southeast, from 1988 to 2009. Despite a demanding career, he never wavered in his commitment to pastoring and supporting his community. A Life of Love and ResilienceRev. Gresham was known for his infectious smile, sharp sense of style, and ability to connect with everyone he met. Despite facing health challenges, he remained a source of joy, positivity, and encouragement to those around him. His love for his family was evident in every aspect of his life, and he treasured the moments shared with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Cherished MemoriesRev. Gresham was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Carolyn Gresham, and his grandson Kenneth Reaves. He leaves behind a legacy of love and faith cherished by his children: Stephanie Gresham Peoples (Curtis), Quinten George Gresham III (LaVelle), Che’ Jabbar Gresham (Lisa), and Terri Lynn Gresham Onick; his five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; his siblings: Rev. I. Laverne Comer (Charles), Rev. Dr. Lola Russell, Dr. Kay L. Gresham, and Harold Gresham (Charmaine); and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friend, Emma Hunley Gresham. Repast: January 4, 2025Worthington Oaks Clubhouse 1105 Windbrooke Drive Powder Springs, Ga 30127Interment Service:Sunday, January 5, 2025, 2:30p Mt. Tabor AME Church 101 Church Street Keysville, GA 30816