Mr. J.L. Lovett, 85
Mr. J.L. Lovett of Hazlehurst was born March 3, 1937, and died at his home Oct. 11 after an extended illness.
Born in Telfair County, Mr. Lovett spent most of his life in Hazlehurst and Jeff Davis County. He was a quiet and humble man who loved his family with all his heart. An extremely intelligent individual, he was always reading to satisfy his desire to learn. Those who were around him were soon laughing due to his sharp sense of humor and quick wit.
He was employed by Hazlehurst Mills for 40 years and became an expert on loom operation and troubleshooting for textile production. He was held in high regard by his coworkers for his knowledge and expertise in mechanics. His strong math skills served him well in this capacity.
He was a hard worker and spent much of his career working seven days a week with only one day off each month. Even after a full day’s work, he would come home, change clothes, have a cup of coffee, then spend the evening hours devoted to his hobby of looking after his yard and garden. He would plant, weed, water, and prune to keep his flowers and vegetables in beautiful condition. He also delighted in the company of his grandchildren who loved their Papa.
J.L. was preceded in death by his parents, John F. and Malissie Lovett; brothers Theates Lovett, J.W. Lovett, and Raleigh Lovett; sisters Henrietta Wright, Agnes White, Lillie Miles, Olene Stanfield, and Lorene Hulett.
J.L. is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 65 years, Reathel Beck Lovett; sister, Mary Sue Meyer of Zephyrhills, Fla.; daughter, Pam (Lyndon) Brantley of Barnesville; sons Jeff (Shirley) Lovett, Greg (Cheryl) Lovett, and Dr. Neal Lovett, all of Hazlehurst; grandchildren April (Jason) Parlor of Barnesville, Anna Norton of Milner, Reid (Jenna) Lovett, Rusty (Tiffany) Lovett, and Ridge (Jenna) Lovett, all of Baxley, Brandon (Mary Allison) Lovett of Fairhope, Ala., and Jocelyn (James) Feller of Brunswick; 18 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Services were held Oct. 14 at First United Methodist Church in Hazlehurst with the Rev. Allen Hartsfield andRusty Lovett officiating. Interment followed in Hazlehurst City Cemetery.
Music was rendered by a granddaughter, April Brantley Parlor, and son-in-law, Lyndon Brantley.
Honorary pallbearers were the staff of Community Hospice of Vidalia and all family and friends in attendance.
Active pallbearers were Brandon Lovett, Rusty Lovett, Reid Lovett, Jerry Hulett, H.A. Stanfield Jr., and Jimmie Ryles.
Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home was in charge.
