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James Harold Gryder, 78, of Mocksville, was called home to be with the Lord on July 13, 2025.
A devout Christian, dedicated husband, exceptional father, loving grandfather, and resolute servant leader, Preacher Jim lived a life of humility, prayer, and selfless love that continues to inspire all who knew him.
Born on June 22, 1947 in Harmony, he was the son of the late James Harvey Gryder and Mabel Brown Gryder. He worked as a painter and was working as a barber when he accepted Christ as his Savior. Jim later yielded to the call of ministry in 1973. He completed courses at Piedmont Bible College and later taught at Victory Bible Institute. Jim was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity Degree from Trinity Baptist Bible Institute in 2007. He spent the majority of his life in service to his Lord and ministering to others. Jim served as the pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Mocksville for just over 41 years before health issues led to his retirement.
He is survived by: his wife and sweetheart, Nellie Brown Gryder, who he married on Feb. 1, 1967; daughters, Christy Tyner (Tommy), Holly Rash (Chris), and Rebekah Ranker (Peter); grandchildren, Austin Tyner, Mattilyn (Matti) Ranker, and Alyssa Ranker; 6 granddogs; his sister, Linda Johnson; his brother, Danny Gryder (Tyra); and an assortment of amazing nieces, nephews, great-nephews, and great-nieces.
He joins his parents, many relatives and countless friends in paradise.
Jim leaves behind a legacy of faith, grace and humor. His light will forever shine in the lives he blessed.
The family would like to express their appreciation, specifically to Trellis Supportive Services (both Palliative Care and Hospice Care); Hospice volunteer Carl “Skip” Tussey and his wife, Jenny; Yellow Butterfly Home Care; Mikendra Davis; and Nancy Spence, along with Merlin (Preacher Jim’s little furry buddy).
It was the family’s privilege to care for Jim, and we are so grateful to those who helped us make it possible to keep him comfortable at home. The prayers, calls, visits, and friendship continue to be appreciated and valued more than you will ever know.
The family appreciates your acknowledgment in whatever form you choose.
Donations to Trellis Supportive Care Rowan, 301 S. Main Street, Suite 105, Salisbury, NC 28144; or Kate B. Reynolds Hospice House, 101 Hospice Lane, Winston-Salem, NC 27103, to allow others (and their families) to receive the same services and support that meant so much.
The family will visit with friends from 6-8 p.m., Friday, July 18 at Lambert Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at Lambert Funeral Chapel, Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 2 p.m. Interment was at Rose Cemetery.
Online condolences: www.lambertfuneralhomenc.com.