Deacon Fletcher Gist, a beloved Father, Husband, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, Brother, Uncle, and Friend; peacefully, entered eternal rest on July 26, 2025. He was born on March 4, 1942, in South Carolina, to the late Evelyn Gist and William Shell.

Deacon Gist worked at Krispy Kreme over 40 years; he also earned his associate's degree in business administration from Forsyth Tech Community College.

Deacon Gist was the former Deacon and Father of the Church for 25 years at Greater Higher Ground Ministries under the leadership of the late Apostle John H. Heath. And He currently served as a deacon of Greater Faith Ministries for 6 years under the leadership of Bishop Michael Tyree.

He was proceeded in death by his wife (Mother Leona Gist), Mother (Evelyn Gist), Father (William Shell), Siblings (Luther, Roger, Shirley, Marion, and Dorenda).

He leaves behind his loving children: Shirley (Dale), Cheryl, Fletcher (Amber), Felicia (Robert), Tahara, LaShonda (Delton), and Marcus (Christine).

His joy multiplied by his Grandchildren: Michael, Tonisha, Ronnie, Demario, Regina, Keosha, Latisha, Aiyana, Fletcher Jr, Frankie, Julia, Carlton, Elijah, Talisha, and Jasmine. And a host of Great-Grand Children.

He is also survived by his devoted siblings: John, Ora Mae, Catherine, Brenda, Larry (Bernice), and Mary (Sister-in-Law). Their bond was a testament to love, laughter, and resilience.

Deacon Gist lived his life with passion and heart. He was the biggest fan of the NFL team the "Pittsburgh Steelers". He loved watching old Western movies and shows. And he enjoyed reading the daily newspaper.

Known for his giving spirit, Deacon Gist gave freely from the heart and asked for nothing in return. His laughter, strength, and kindness will be missed deeply, but his legacy will live on in every life he touched.

Special thanks to his close friend Teresa Penn.
A public viewing will be held Wednesday August 6, 2025, from 1pm until 5pm at Douthit's. Funeral services will be held Thursday August 7, 2025, at 12pm from Galilee Missionary Baptist Church. The family will receive friends at 11:30am. Interment will take place Friday August 8, 2025, at 10:00 am from Sailsbury National Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Douthit Funeral Services.