The city of Augusta is mourning the heartbreaking and unexpected loss of Pastor Ledwellyn Daccus Turman, a deeply cherished spiritual leader, community servant, and man of unwavering faith. Pastor Turman passed away on May 27, 2025, at the age of 42, leaving behind a legacy of love, guidance, and service that deeply impacted all who knew him.
His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the Augusta faith community and beyond. Congregants, civic leaders, and neighbors are all grieving the loss of a man who, in just over four decades, had become a beacon of hope, wisdom, and strength for countless individuals and families.
A Life Devoted to Faith and Service
Pastor Turman served as the senior pastor of Greater New Light Missionary Baptist Church, a position he held with both humility and passion. Under his leadership, the church grew in both size and spirit, becoming a refuge not only for worshippers but also for the hungry, the lost, and the brokenhearted.
Those close to Pastor Turman recall a man whose sermons were not only rooted in scripture but filled with practical guidance, empathy, and encouragement. Whether standing at the pulpit, visiting hospitals, mentoring youth, or organizing community outreach events, he led with integrity and love.
“Pastor Turman wasn’t just our shepherd, he was family,” said Deacon Marcus Langford. “He walked with us through births, weddings, funerals, and every joy and struggle in between. He gave himself fully, and his absence is deeply felt.”
A Voice for the Vulnerable
Beyond the church walls, Pastor Turman was a powerful advocate for social justice and equality. He often spoke at rallies and public forums, emphasizing the importance of unity, education, and opportunity for all. His outreach initiatives helped launch tutoring programs, food drives, and support groups for those dealing with addiction, homelessness, and grief.
“He didn’t just preach the gospel — he lived it,” said longtime friend and fellow pastor Rev. Celeste Moore. “His compassion had no limits. He believed that everyone deserved to be seen, heard, and loved.”
Pastor Turman’s influence extended into local schools and city government, where he often counseled leaders on matters of community engagement and spiritual well-being. He had a special gift for bringing people together, bridging divides with grace and diplomacy.
A Legacy of Love
Pastor Ledwellyn Daccus Turman is survived by his devoted wife, Danielle Turman, and their three children. In his roles as husband and father, he was deeply present — a teacher, protector, and source of joy for his family. Friends describe their household as warm and welcoming, often the site of laughter-filled dinners and impromptu prayer circles.
“Losing him feels like losing a part of ourselves,” said family friend Alicia Monroe. “He touched every life he encountered, and the love he gave was limitless. He was the kind of man who made you believe — not just in God, but in yourself.”
In honor of his life and ministry, a candlelight vigil is being organized by local churches and community groups for this Friday evening at the Augusta Common. Plans for his memorial service are underway, with expectations of a large turnout from across Georgia and beyond.
An Eternal Impact
Though his life was tragically cut short, Pastor Turman’s impact will continue through the many lives he touched and the causes he championed. His teachings, his kindness, and his unwavering belief in the power of love and grace will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
In the words of one of his final sermons, delivered just weeks ago:
“We may not know the hour or the day, but we do know the purpose — to love, to serve, and to walk humbly with our God. Let us live each day in that truth.”
Pastor Ledwellyn Daccus Turman did just that — and his light will continue to shine long after his earthly journey has ended.
Rest in peace, Pastor Turman. Your legacy of faith, love, and leadership will never be forgotten.
