Mr. Fred Earl Rowell, 82
Mr. Fred Earl Rowell, 82, of Hazlehurst, passed away May 26 at his home.
He was born July 23, 1942, in Hazlehurst where he lived all his life. He was a devoted member of Oakland Baptist Church and spent much of his life doing what he loved — working the land and serving others. As a manager and farmer with Ocmulgee Tractor Company, he built lasting relationships with customers and farmers from across the country. Known for his dedication and warm-hearted nature, Fred was deeply respected by his co-workers and all who had the pleasure of working with him.
Outside of work, he found joy in riding his tractor, spending time outdoors, and sharing laughter with those around him. His quick wit and love of “cutting up” brought smiles to many faces. Fred was a family man through and through. He cherished his brothers, sisters, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and held a special place in his heart for his beloved wife, with whom he is now joyfully reunited. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
He is preceded in death by his parents Fred Lee Rowell and Cora Addis Wages Rowell; wife Betty LaNell Rowell; brother Jimmy Rowell; sisters Eunice Bohannon, Louise Swisegood, Billie Jean Messenger, and Geraldine Floyd; and granddaughter, Stacia Lee Flood.
Survivors include his son Craig Rowell (Melissa) of Hazlehurst; daughter Tena Rowell of Hazlehurst; brother Joby Rowell (Joyce) of Hazlehurst; sister Cindy McLain (Glenn) of Hazlehurst; grandchildren Logan Stone (Chelsea) of Folkston, Nick Rowell of Hazlehurst, Alexis Rowell of Pooler, Jessi Lee Poole (Josh) of Lyons, Harley NeeSmith (Cody), Hailee Waldron (Andrew), and Dalton Sellers, all of Hazlehurst; great-grandchildren Raina Ward, Bristol Stone, Lenox Poole, Anna-Beth NeeSmith, Ellie Kate Stone, Addison NeeSmith, Lincoln Poole, and Truett Waldron; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The funeral was held May 29 at Oakland Baptist Church with the Rev. Royce Hulett officiating. Burial followed in the church cemetery.
Active pallbearers were Chris Parlor, Brandon Parlor, Jason Bohannon, Kelvin Bohannon, Ricky Floyd, and Dax Rowell.
The honorary pallbearers were David Clark, E.H. Claxton, Nancy and Wayne Kirkland, Junior and Cathy Sharpe, Gail and Wayne Hall, Bobby and Cheryl McNeal, Linda Sammons, Lealonie Bryant, Melvin Mims, Donald Parlor, Kenny and Linda K. Parlor, Rafael Lara, Deric Bohannon, and members of the Senior Adult Sunday School Class.
Congregational hymns were rendered under the direction of Vic Brantley and Ann Walters.
Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home was in charge.
