Oscar Lauden DeLozier Jr.

Reverend Oscar Lauden (Zeke) DeLozier, Jr. of Watkinsville died on April 29, 2026 at the age of 97. Born in Atlanta, GA, he was the son of Oscar L. DeLozier and Reba Law. The Depression forced them to rural Dekalb County where Zeke learned farm life. After graduating from Druid Hills High School, Mercer University, and service in the Air Force during the Korean Conflict/Cold War (SSgt in Germany, and the Alaska territory), he entered the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary graduating with a master’s degree in theology and finding the love of his life, Marjorie. His talents and calling led to Pastoral Care and Counseling. After 12 years as Associate Chaplain and Director of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) at the Georgia Baptist Hospital, he joined a group of Pastoral Counselors and established the Georgia Association for Pastoral Care. He developed a CPE program at Wesley Woods while continuing his work as a pastoral therapist eventually opening his own private practice working with individuals, couples, therapy groups, and consultation groups for clergy. He reluctantly retired at age 83 giving him more time to be Granddad, chief storyteller, and hunter of pink elephants to his 7 grandchildren. Beloved by family, friends, colleagues, clients, and former students, his memory and impact will live on in the hearts of many.

He will be cremated and buried at Oconee Memorial Park. A memorial Service will be held on May 17, 2026 at 4:00 pm at First Baptist Church, Athens, GA followed by a reception at the church. He is preceded in death by his wife of almost 70 years, Marjorie Ferguson DeLozier and survived by two daughters, Rebecca (Becky) DeLozier Vaughn and Susan DeLozier Parker (Ken), one son, David Lauden DeLozier (Dixie); seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to First Baptist Church, Athens, Georgia.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, East, Athens, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com