Southwell mourns the loss of longtime board member Wasdon Graydon, Jr.
Tifton, Ga. (2/20/26) – It is with deep sadness that Southwell has learned of the recent passing of long-serving board member Wasdon Graydon, Jr. Southwell’s Board of Directors, Executive Staff, Medical Staff, and employees wish to convey their heartfelt condolences to his family and many friends.
Mr. Graydon had served in a board capacity with Southwell and Tift Regional Medical Center for more than 15 years. His most recent positions included Board Secretary for the Southwell, Inc. Board of Directors and Vice Chair for the Tift County Hospital Authority.
“I don’t think anybody loved our community more than Wasdon,” said Christopher Dorman, Southwell President/CEO. “He wanted to ensure that Tift and surrounding counties had access to quality primary and specialty care services. Enhancing the health and wellness of our service area was important to him. He provided keen insights that directly impacted our organization’s long-term success.”
A graduate of Tift County High School, Mr. Graydon was one of the first black students at ABAC in 1968. He later retired from ABAC after working for 37 years as Director of Student Support Services and the Minority Advising Program.
In addition to his diploma from ABAC, Mr. Graydon earned a bachelor’s degree in history and education from Georgia Southern University and master’s degree in education from Valdosta State University.
During his time working at ABAC, he was recognized with the E. Lanier Carson Leadership Award for College Administrators and the President’s Award for Achievement, Leadership and Service. In 2008, ABAC President David Bridges asked Mr. Graydon to be the fall commencement speaker in the closing moment of ABAC’s 100th birthday celebration.
After his ABAC retirement, Mr. Graydon worked part-time for Diversified Enterprises and remained a managing member of Graydon Enterprises, LLC.
“As a Southwell board member, Wasdon provided direction, ensured accountability, and always made certain that our healthcare institution remained true to its mission,” said Mr. Dorman. “He will truly be missed. Our thoughts and prayers go to his wife Veronica and the entire family.”
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