Mr. Archie J. Connell, 86

Mr. Archie J. Connell, 86, of Hazlehurst, passed away Oct. 20 at Coffee Regional Medical Center.
He was born Aug. 8, 1940, in McRae to the late Marvin Connell and Mattie Mae Prickett Connell. He had been a resident of Hazlehurst since 1965 and was a member of Oak Grove Baptist Church. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Air Force.
He was a strong patriarch, a trusted friend, and a valued mentor to those who knew him. Known for being straightforward and honest, he also had a sensitive heart and a deep love for the people in his life. He enjoyed spending time with his friends at Huddle House, sharing stories and memories from years gone by. In his spare time, he could often be found playing cards, fishing, bird watching, or tending to his garden. He also loved traveling to the mountains. Above all else, his greatest joy was his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 42 years, Bonnie Connell; five brothers and sisters; and son-in-law Chris Owens.
Archie is survived by his son Marvin (Angie) Connell of Thomasville, Penn.; daughters Deborah (Scott) Butler of Hazlehurst, Tammy Renee Connell (Greg Terry) of Doerun, and Angie Owens of McRae; grandchildren Edward Rowland, Jason Rowland, Brad Owens, Ben Owens, Adam Owens, Breanna Waters, Katie Hudgens and Elizabeth Brand; 16 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Graveside services were held Oct. 23 in Oak Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.
Active pallbearers were Brad Owens, Ben Owens, Adam Owens, Chris Barnard, Darrell Hullett and Braydon Waters.
Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home was in charge.