Pastor John Baxter Griswood

John Griswood, beloved husband, father, grandfather, Pastor, and faithful servant of God, passed away on January 5, 2025, in Paris, Texas, at the age of 68. Born on October 22, 1956, in Morrilton, Arkansas, John’s life was a testament to resilience, devotion, and unwavering faith in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. John was the youngest of five children born to Forrest and Reba Griswood, who were married on November 15, 1947. He grew up alongside his siblings, Jim, Sandra, Janis, and Kathy. Even in his youth, John displayed an unshakable will to overcome challenges. As a young boy, he survived being run over by a tractor. Later, during a period of wandering from his faith, he endured a car accident, and a shotgun wound to the head—events that left two pellets in his skull. John was saved at the age of 11 at Hill Creek Missionary Baptist Church on July 1, 1968, and baptized on July 7, 1968. A natural athlete, John, excelled in basketball, earning a scholarship to Arkansas Tech University, where he played for 2.5 years. After a period of spiritual wandering, he rededicated his life to the Lord in July 1980 and began faithfully attending church, eventually serving with the youth at Riverview Baptist Church in Morrilton, Arkansas. He surrendered to preach in June 1983, marking the beginning of a remarkable 40-year ministry. John pursued his calling with determination, moving to Peoria, Illinois, in August 1983 to attend Fellowship Baptist College. He graduated in May 1986 as the salutatorian of his class. After completing his education, he returned to Arkansas, where he served as an Associate Pastor at Riverview Baptist Church under Pastor Bill Bristow for over four years. During this time, he wore many hats, including coach, Youth Pastor, Associate Pastor, and even janitor. In October 1990, John moved to Chickasha, Oklahoma, to serve as Associate Pastor and Youth Pastor under Pastor Mike Gibbs at Calvary Baptist Church. Two years later, he answered the call to become the Pastor of Lakewood Baptist Church in Powderly, Texas, where he faithfully shepherded the congregation for over 32 years. His first Sunday as Pastor was in September 1992, and he was ordained in January 1994. John’s life was deeply intertwined with his family, whom he loved dearly. He married Yvonne Hoyt, the love of his life, on August 11, 1978, building 46 years of family and memories. Together, they raised four beautiful daughters: Rachel, wife of Dennis Stene; Emily, wife of Stephen Ball; Sarah, wife of Seth Bailey; and Abigail, wife of Matthew McNeece. He took immense pride in his 14 grandchildren: Kendra, Ryan, Grant, Ava, Kaden, Peyton, Ashton, Brooklyn, Savannah, London, Sydney, Preston, Morgan, and Lily. John was preceded in death by his father, Forrest Griswood, and his brother, Jim Griswood. John’s life was marked by his steadfast faith, tireless work ethic, and compassionate heart. He was a constant source of encouragement and wisdom to all who knew him and his life serves as a testament to God's grace. Only eternity will reveal the impact he has had on so many lives.

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

- 2 Timothy 4:7-8

Bright-Holland Funeral Home has scheduled services for 11:00 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11th at Ramseur Baptist Church with Bro. Mike Gibbs and Bro. Steve Hart officiating. Bro. Seth Bailey, Chaplain Dennis Stene, Matthew McNeece, and Stephen Ball will serve as eulogists. Burial will follow in Springhill Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Friday from 5 – 7 p.m.

Casket bearers will be: Dennis Stene, Seth Bailey, Stephen Ball, Matthew McNeece, Ryan Stene, and Kaden Ball. Honorary bearers will be: Grant Stene, Peyton Ball, Preston McNeece, and Ashton Ball.

Following the funeral service the Gospel Lighthouse Pentecostal Church of God, 7600 U. S. Hwy. 271 N., Powderly, TX 75473, will host a luncheon for John’s family, church family, friends, and out of town guests. All are welcome.