Gary Jarrell

Gary Ray Jarrell, born on November 21, 1951, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and faithful servant of the Lord whose kindness, strength, and unwavering faith touched the lives of many.

Gary was an active and dedicated member of Rosemary Baptist Church in Millen, Georgia, where he faithfully served as the adult Sunday school teacher and worshiped alongside his church family. His love for God and his commitment to his faith were evident in the way he lived each day.

For many years, Gary was a beloved member of the Metter community and was widely known as the manager of the local Piggly Wiggly. Whether helping a customer, greeting a friend, or sharing one of his signature jokes, Gary had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome. His warm smile, quick wit, and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path.

Gary was a man of many talents and endless creativity. An accomplished artist, he shared his gift with the community by creating cartoons for the local newspaper, bringing smiles and laughter to countless readers. He had a passion for leatherworking and delighted in crafting one-of-a-kind pieces that reflected both his artistic eye and careful craftsmanship. He also enjoyed woodworking, creating treasured keepsakes and handcrafted gifts that his wife, children, and grandchildren will cherish for generations. Gary was also known for creating amazing home cooked meals.

Nothing brought Gary greater joy than spending time with his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Bonnie, whom he met in high school. Their love story spanned more than fifty years and was a beautiful example of faithfulness, partnership, and unconditional love. Gary was a proud father and an adoring grandfather who treasured every moment with his family. His children and grandchildren will forever remember the stories he brought to life by reading in character, filling each tale with voices, laughter, and imagination. They will also remember the countless hours spent riding on the tractor with him and the many days he spent tending his garden, finding joy in God's creation and the simple pleasures of life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Zona and Raiford (Bo) Jarrell; his brother, Randall Jarrell; his grandson, Zachary Jarrell; and his niece, Jansin Jarrell.

Gary leaves behind a loving family who will cherish his memory forever. He is survived by his devoted wife, Bonnie Jarrell; his children, Crystal (Zachary) Dalgard and Stewart (Cindi) Jarrell; his brother, Raiford Jarrell (Bill Crosby); his five cherished grandchildren, Lane Jarrell, Bishop (Alyssa) Jarrell, Grace Ann (Colton) Russell, Jozy Dalgard, and Henry Dalgard; and his four precious great-grandchildren, Avery McGalliard, Achar Jarrell, Alex Russell, and Lottie Jarrell as well as multiple loved nieces, nephews and their children.

Gary will be remembered for his steadfast faith, generous heart, infectious sense of humor, creative spirit, and the unwavering love he gave to his family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, compassion, craftsmanship, and joyful memories that will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.

While Gary will be missed dearly by his family and friends, they rejoice in the assurance that he is now in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. They find comfort in the promise that, through God's perfect timing and eternal grace, they will one day be joyfully reunited with him.

The funeral will be held Saturday at 11 o’clock in the morning at Kennedy Funeral Homes, Hooks Chapel, of Metter with Rev. Bo Fulginiti offictiating.

Interment will follow in Rosemary Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 10 until 11 o’clock in the morning at the funeral home on Saturday.

Kennedy Funeral Homes, Hooks Chapel, of Metter is in charge of the arrangements.