Elmer Dryden

“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ lay down his life for us and we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with works or tongue but with actions and in truth.”

Elmer Jerome Dryden, 91, passed away on April 24, 2022. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather and was an inspiration to his family. He was a faithful member of Hickory Grove Baptist Church, where he served in several ministries. He was an ambassador for God, leaving footprints in over 62 countries while spreading the Gospel on mission trips. Mr. Dryden worked tirelessly with the Hearts and Hammers Ministry providing much needed help to those in need. His spiritual journey and devotion to others is a testament to his legacy.

Mr. Dryden is survived by his brother, Guy Dryden of Merritt Island, FL; and his five children, Douglas H. Gibson of Tampa, FL, Connie R. Grundman of Boiling Springs, SC, Deborah D. Andrews of Blairsville, GA, Michael J. Dryden of Chester, SC and Stephen J. Dryden of Brandon, FL; as well as seven grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.

Mr. Dryden was blessed with two loving wives, Jean Coker Dryden, who passed away in October of 1963, and “Dee” Dryden who passed away in January of 2021.

A service to celebrate Mr. Dryden’s life will be held 11:00 am Saturday, April 30, 2022, at Hickory Grove Baptist Church Harris Campus Worship Center, 7200 E. WT Harris Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28215. Rev. Clint Pressley, Rev. John Harrill and Rev. Steve Adams will officiate. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:30 am Saturday and will continue until just prior to the service. The service will be livestreamed. Burial will take place at New Live Oak Cemetery in Selma, Alabama under the direction of Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, it is Mr. Dryden’s wish that donations be made to “Elmer Dryden Missions Scholarship” at Hickory Grove Baptist Church, Charlotte, NC. Please notate your donation is in his memory.