John David Harrell

John David Harrell
Saturday, January 9, 1943 – Tuesday, October 14, 2025
John David Harrell, affectionately known as Johnny, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2025, at Fairview Park Hospital in Dublin, Georgia, at the age of 82. Born on January 9, 1943, in Telfair County to the late John William Harrell and Marjorie Nell Williams Harrell, Johnny's life was a testament to perseverance, faith, and purpose.
At birth, the doctors warned his parents that he might only live a few days due to severe convulsions. But God had other plans. Johnny not only survived-he thrived. Growing up on the family farm in Telfair County, he lived with cerebral palsy but never let it define or limit him. His determination was unmatched; he attended school from grades 1 through 12 without ever missing a day or being tardy.
After high school, Johnny pursued his passion for craftsmanship at South Georgia Technical School in Americus, earning a degree in cabinet making and woodwork. He later returned to school to earn a certificate in farm equipment and hydraulic repair. With skill and dedication, he ran his own carpenter shop, creating works that reflected both his talent and his heart.
Johnny's life was transformed when he gave his heart to Jesus Christ as a young man. One of his earliest woodworking projects was a wooden cross for McRae Presbyterian Church, which hung in the sanctuary-a symbol of his faith and devotion. He was a long-time member of Blockhouse Baptist Church where he cherished his time with his church family.
Throughout his life, Johnny served his community with humility and pride. He worked for the City of Jacksonville, Georgia, reading meters and assisting wherever needed. He volunteered as a firefighter with the Jacksonville Fire Department and was a longtime member of the Jacksonville Lions Club. He also contributed to the county by repairing voting machines for Telfair County.
One of Johnny's proudest achievements was hiking all 100 miles of the Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail with his dear friend Joe Ward-a journey chronicled in a book by his cousin, Julian Anderson Williams. He was also a gifted poet, publishing two volumes of faith-inspired verses: Gospel Seed Poetry in 2011 and again in 2015. Johnny always credited God for the words that came to him, saying they were divinely placed in his mind.
Johnny's family extends heartfelt gratitude to his devoted caregivers, Marylee Williams and Madison Harris, and to the compassionate staff of Heart of Georgia Nursing Home in Eastman, Georgia for their loving care.
Johnny's life was a beautiful example of resilience, service, and unwavering faith. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
Johnny is survived by his brothers and sisters – Marion Harrell (Laurie) of Rockmart, Mae Materne, Cathy Stone (Stacey), and Ricky Harrell (Marlene) all of McRae-Helena. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers, James "Jim" G. Dowdy of Orlando, Florida and Billy Harrell of Abbeville and his nephew, Hans Materne.
Funeral Services will be held at Blockhouse Baptist Church on Sunday, October 19, 2025 at 3:00 P.M. with Rev. Stacey Stone officiating, assisted by Rev. Arnold Rye. Interment will be held at Blockhouse Baptist Church Cemetery following the service. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 2 PM – 3 PM at the church.
Flowers are accepted or you may make donations to Blockhouse Baptist Church, PO Box 96 Jacksonville, GA 31544.
You may express your condolences online at lowesfuneralhome.net
Lowes Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.