Reverend Joseph (Joe) Paul Granberry, Longtime Texas Pastor, Dies at 83

Granberry was known for his passionate preaching and dedication to missions work.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 11:55am

Reverend Joseph (Joe) Paul Granberry, a longtime pastor in Crockett, Texas, passed away on January 2, 2026 at the age of 83. Granberry had a 60-plus year ministry, serving as a pastor at several churches in Texas and as the South Texas District Superintendent for the Assemblies of God. He was known for his passionate preaching style and his dedication to missions work, raising millions of dollars for missions over the years.

Why it matters

Granberry's passing marks the end of an era for the Assemblies of God church in Texas, as he was a respected and influential figure who mentored many pastors and church leaders over his decades-long career. His commitment to spreading the gospel and supporting missions work had a significant impact on the region.

The details

Granberry was born in Teague, Texas in 1942 and felt called to preach the gospel in 1964. He began pastoring in 1965 and served at several churches in Texas, including Magnolia Assembly of God, Kingsville Assembly of God, and Greens Bayou Assembly of God in Houston. He was also the South Texas District Superintendent for the Assemblies of God from 2001 to 2011. Granberry was known for his contagious laughter and passionate preaching style that would leave audiences inspired to draw closer to God. Over his ministry, he helped lead thousands of people to salvation, healing, and a closer relationship with Christ.

  • Granberry was born on April 2, 1942 in Teague, Texas.
  • He felt called to preach the gospel in 1964.
  • He began pastoring in August 1965.
  • He served as South Texas District Superintendent from May 2001 to April 2011.
  • Granberry passed away on January 2, 2026 at the age of 83.

The players

Reverend Joseph (Joe) Paul Granberry

A longtime pastor in Crockett, Texas who served in the Assemblies of God church for over 60 years, including as the South Texas District Superintendent from 2001 to 2011.

Reverend Herbert Roy Granberry

Granberry's father, who was also a minister.

Lena Kent Granberry

Granberry's mother.

Reverend Howard Burroughs

The minister who presided over Granberry's salvation in 1963 at Burbank Assembly of God Church.

Southwestern Assembly of God College

The college where Granberry served on the Board of Regents and Executive Committee.

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What they’re saying

“When Jesus comes, I want to be prayed up, paid up, packed up, and ready to go.”

— Reverend Joseph (Joe) Paul Granberry, Pastor

“Have you prayed and read God's word today?”

— Reverend Joseph (Joe) Paul Granberry, Pastor

“Never let the devil lick the sweet off your candy.”

— Reverend Joseph (Joe) Paul Granberry, Pastor

What’s next

Granberry's funeral service will be held on January 6, 2026 at Greens Bayou Assembly of God in Houston, where he served as pastor for over 30 years.

The takeaway

Reverend Joseph Granberry's life and ministry left a lasting impact on the Assemblies of God church in Texas, as he dedicated over six decades to spreading the gospel, supporting missions work, and mentoring countless pastors and church leaders. His passionate preaching style and unwavering faith continue to inspire those who knew him.