Statement from American Baptist College on the Life & Legacy of Rev. Dr. Julius Scruggs

Nashville, Tenn. (TN Tribune)-We pause to reflect on the incomparable life of Rev. Dr. Julius Richard Scruggs, who passed away peacefully in his home on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. The College was informed of this sad news by Rev. Don Darius Butler, pastor of First Missionary Baptist Church in Huntsville, Alabama. Dr. Scruggs was the pastor emeritus of First Missionary Baptist Church, retiring in 2019after 42 years as pastor. He also was a former president of the National BaptistConvention, USA, and served on the Board of Trustees of American Baptist College,where he was a mentor and close friend of President Forrest Harris. Dr. Scruggs was an outstanding Christian leader who graduated from American BaptistCollege in the 1960s and later was a faculty member in addition to his Board service.He dedicated more than 60 years of his life to meaningful Christian service and wasalso a generous philanthropist who made significant contributions to his alma mater andto causes of education and justice. The life of Rev. Dr. Julius Scruggs serves as a shining example of excellence inChristian leadership and service. In the days ahead, American Baptist College will joinhis family and many others to honor and celebrate his life and incomparable legacy....