Bishop George Edward Battle Jr., a revered leader in The African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, passed away on March 9, 2023, at the age of 77. His legacy as a champion for education and community service has left an indelible mark on countless lives, particularly in North Carolina.
The Board of Bishops of The A.M.E. Zion Church expressed their heartfelt condolences in a statement, highlighting the profound impact Bishop Battle had on the church and the broader community. They extended their sympathies to his beloved wife, Mrs. Iris Battle, their children, George Edward III and LaChandra, and his many grandchildren and friends. “He was not only an evangelist, pastor, bishop, and Christian servant; he was a great philanthropist, a community leader, a champion for education, and a social justice advocate,” they noted, emphasizing his multifaceted contributions to society.
Born in Edgecombe County, North Carolina, in 1947, Bishop Battle’s educational journey began at Clinton Jr. College, where he graduated in 1967. He continued his studies at Livingstone College, earning his bachelor’s degree in 1969, and later obtained a Master of Divinity from Hood Theological Seminary in 1972. His pursuit of knowledge culminated in a Doctor of Ministry from Howard University School of Divinity in 1990.
Bishop Battle’s ministry began in 1966 at the Center Grove Circuit in Tobaccoville, North Carolina. Over the years, he served various churches across North and South Carolina, making significant contributions to the spiritual and educational landscape. His leadership extended beyond the church; he was a member of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education from 1978 to 1995, where he served as chairman from 1990 until 1995. His commitment to education was evident in his founding of the Greater Enrichment Program in 1975, which has provided after-school enrichment to thousands of students.
In 1992, Bishop Battle was consecrated as a bishop and took on various leadership roles within the denomination. He became the senior bishop of The A.M.E. Zion Church in 2012, a position he held until his retirement in 2021. His tenure was marked by significant milestones, including a mortgage-burning ceremony celebrating the church’s financial independence.
The Rev. Monte Witherspoon-Brown, a member of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education, praised Bishop Battle’s service, noting its critical importance to the district. His efforts in education and community development were recognized with over 100 awards, including the prestigious Long Leaf Pine Award, the highest honor given by the state of North Carolina.
In a fitting tribute to his legacy, the Bishop George E. Battle Jr. Scholarship Fund was established by Atrium Health to support educational opportunities for lower-income communities. This initiative underscores his lifelong commitment to social justice and advocacy for the economically disadvantaged.
Bishop Battle’s passing is a profound loss, but his spirit lives on through the countless lives he touched. As the A.M.E. Zion Church community mourns, they also celebrate a life dedicated to service, education, and faith. His journey from a humble pastor to a respected bishop and community leader serves as an inspiration to many, reminding us all of the power of faith and dedication to the greater good.
For more information about Bishop George Edward Battle Jr.’s contributions and legacy, you can visit the official A.M.E. Zion Church website or read his obituary. His life and work will continue to inspire future generations.