Rev Dr. Justin Gilreath, an associate pastor at Buncombe Street Methodist Church in Greenville, South Carolina, has tragically died.

Gilreath’s death was reported by numerous distraught church members remembering him for his immense impact on their lives. No cause of death was given.

Church member Vance Jenkins said in a touching tribute: “Please pray for the people of Buncombe Street Methodist Church in the wake of the death of our beloved Senior Minister, the Reverend Doctor Justin Gilreath. We are utterly bereft. May God cling tightly to and comfort Justin’s wife, Jenny, and their two beautiful young daughters. There are no words to describe the depth of our collective loss. Justin loved the Lord with all his heart, mind, and soul. May his soul rest in God’s most perfect peace,”

Reverend Dr Justin Gilreath gradated Blue Ridge High School before going on to study Agricultural Education at Clemson University. He jumped into ministry after his education, studying Theology at the Duke Divinity School in Durham, North Carolina and the Erskine Theological Seminary. He then took on a position as associate pastor at Buncombe Street Methodist Church.

Justin was married to Jenny Gilreath (née) Horton with whom he shared daughters Meakin and Griffin.

Tributes flowed for the late pastor, with many highlighting his love and passion for helping others.

“f it wasn’t for you believing in me and always pushing me to be a better me back then I wouldn’t be the man I am today. I love you brother, you were like the brother I never had and you’re the one who taught me how to be a minister,” fellow minister, Travis Wooten said.