Georgia pastor dies at 53, remembered for his 'purpose and unwavering faith'

Rev. Derek Dumas, a Georgia pastor who led his congregation for more than two decades, died Friday morning of reported natural causes at a Macon hospital, surrounded by his family.

Dumas, pastor of Greater Lizzieboro Baptist Church in Macon, was 53. Bibb County Coroner Leon Jones confirmed his death at Atrium Hospital, reports WGXA.

Dumas led the church on Fort Hill Street since the early 2000s, taking over the congregation following the death of his grandfather, Rev. Moses Dumas.

He was a member of the General Missionary Baptist Convention of Georgia, the National Baptist Convention U.S.A., and the Lambda Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., according to his church biography.

Dumas earned a Bachelor of Science in public administration from Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville and later received a Master of Science in theology from Southern Christian University in Montgomery, Alabama.

A tribute posted by the Georgia-based law firm Forrest B. Johnson & Associates described Dumas as a leader in community empowerment and spiritual excellence. His life, it said, “exemplified purpose, power, and unwavering faith.”

“Dr. Dumas was not only a preacher of the Word, but a living testament to it — leading with integrity, serving with humility, and pouring into others with a genuine and selfless spirit,” the tribute stated.

“His voice carried wisdom. His presence commanded respect. His life inspired transformation,” the statement read. “Dr. Dumas leaves behind a legacy rooted in leadership, community empowerment, and spiritual excellence. He was the kind of man who didn’t just speak about change — he created it. He didn’t just uplift people — he equipped them to rise.”

It added: “As we remember him, we are reminded that true greatness is not measured by titles, but by the lives you touch, the seeds you plant, and the love you give. And by every measure, Rev. Dr. Dumas was truly great.”