HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — A legend in Huntsville-area faith leading has passed away. First Missionary Baptist Church posted on social media that the Rev. Dr. Julius Scruggs died at the age of 82. "We bear the sad news of the passing of our beloved Pastor Emeritus, The Reverend Dr. Julius Richard Scruggs, who died peacefully at home this morning," the church wrote.
"Pastor Emeritus Scruggs was a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf, and he has made known the love of God to us. As we process the shock of his unexpected transition, our hearts are united in grief and loss, even as we draw strength from the faith we share together – a faith we shared with him. Let us remember Lady Josephine Scruggs in prayer, along with Jennifer and Reverend Marty, the grandchildren, and the entire Scruggs family. Indeed, God remains faithful."
“It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Dr. Julius Scruggs, a pastor's pastor whose dedicated service spanned over a half-century in the ministry and over 40 years in Huntsville," said Mayor Tommy Battle in a written statement. "His profound impact and unwavering commitment to Huntsville will be remembered fondly by all whose lives he touched. Dr. Scruggs leaves behind a legacy of compassion, guidance and spiritual leadership that will continue to inspire generations to come. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this time of profound loss."
Rev. Dr. Julius R. Scruggs was former Senior Pastor of First Missionary. He had seats on the boards of American Baptist College, the NAACP, and at one time was president of the National Baptist Convention.
A memorial page has been set up at Royal Funeral Home.
Scruggs will lie in repose at First Missionary beginning Thursday, May 16 from 5-8 p.m.; a Homegoing Celebration will be Friday, May 17. Visitation will be at 10 a.m., with the service at noon at Oakwood University Church.