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Tifton Today
By the People, for the People
Southwell mourns loss of longtime board member Wasdon Graydon, Jr.
Graydon served on Southwell's board for over 15 years, providing key leadership and guidance.
Published on Mar. 1, 2026
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Southwell's Board of Directors, executive staff, medical staff, and employees conveyed condolences to the family of long-serving board member Wasdon Graydon Jr., who passed away. Graydon had served in a board capacity with Southwell and Tift Regional Medical Center for more than 15 years, holding positions such as board secretary and vice chair.
Why it matters
Graydon was deeply committed to ensuring that Tift and surrounding counties had access to quality primary and specialty care services. His leadership and insights directly impacted Southwell's long-term success and ability to fulfill its mission of enhancing the health and wellness of the local community.
The details
Graydon was one of the first black students at ABAC in 1968 and later worked at the college for 37 years as director of Student Support Services and the Minority Advising Program. He was recognized with several awards during his time at ABAC, including the E. Lanier Carson Leadership Award for College Administrators and the President's Award for Achievement, Leadership and Service.
- Graydon had served on Southwell's board for more than 15 years.
- Graydon passed away on February 20, 2026.
The players
Wasdon Graydon Jr.
A long-serving board member of Southwell and Tift Regional Medical Center who held positions such as board secretary and vice chair. He was deeply committed to ensuring quality healthcare access in the local community.
Christopher Dorman
The president and CEO of Southwell, who praised Graydon's dedication to the organization and the local community.
David Bridges
The president of ABAC, who asked Graydon to be the fall commencement speaker in 2008 during ABAC's 100th birthday celebration.
What they’re saying
“I don't think anybody loved our community more than Wasdon. 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.”
— Christopher Dorman, Southwell President/CEO (tiftongazette.com)
“As a Southwell board member, Wasdon provided direction, ensured accountability, and always made certain that our healthcare institution remained true to its mission. He will truly be missed. Our thoughts and prayers go to his wife Veronica and the entire family.”
— Christopher Dorman, Southwell President/CEO (tiftongazette.com)
The takeaway
Wasdon Graydon Jr.'s passing is a significant loss for Southwell and the local community he served for over 15 years. His dedication to ensuring quality healthcare access and his leadership on the board directly contributed to Southwell's ability to fulfill its mission and serve the region. His legacy will continue to impact the organization and the people it serves.
