J.C. Campbell, 93, of Fitzgerald, Georgia, died Thursday, March 2, 2017, at Crisp Regional Hospital in Cordele.
Funeral services will be held 11 AM, Monday, March 6, 2017, at Arbor Baptist Church in Fitzgerald with the Rev. Sonny Pate, the Rev. Charlie Solomon, and the Rev. Dr. Lloyd Stembridge officiating. Interment will follow in Arbor Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the sanctuary of the church.
Mr. Campbell was born October 25, 1923, in Dodge County, Georgia to the late James Perry & Mary Law Campbell. He grew up on the banks of the Ocmulgee River and enjoyed spending time on the river. He was a graduate of Rhine High School, having been elected to speak at his 9th grade graduation. Mr. Campbell served his country honorably in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II. He was owner and operator of Fitzgerald Auto Supply for many years. He was a Mason, a member of the American Legion and the Toastmasters. He was an active member of Arbor Baptist Church where he had served as Chairman of the Deacons, taught Sunday school in the Junior department, drove the church van, and served on many committees including cemetery, and building and grounds. Perhaps Mr. Campbell’s legacy however will be his devotion to the Word of God. His daily Bible readings and nightly prayer time with his family recall fond memories for his children and grandchildren. He also instilled the values of self-reliance and the importance of financial stewardship and tithing into his family. He was an avid reader and enjoyed collecting antiques and woodworking. He also enjoyed fishing and traveling. Mr. Campbell was always willing to help someone in need.
He is survived by his wife, Mildred McEwen Campbell of Fitzgerald; his children: James & Gail Campbell of Fitzgerald, Roy Campbell of Phoeniz, Arizona, and Betty & Greg Mercier of Silver Creek; four grandchildren: Brook Allan & Elizma Mercier of Gainesville, Florida, Tyler & Ashley Campbell of Savannah, Ross & Kristin Campbell of Fitzgerald, and Brad & Jennifer Mercier of North Carolina; eight great-grandchildren; his step-children: Linda & Kenneth Futch, Sheila & Charlie Solomon, Rita & Alan Petrie, and Marcia & Eddie Benford; six step-grandchildren; and ten step-great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Maggie Maloy Campbell and two brothers, John Wright Campbell and Robert Campbell.
The family suggests those desiring to send memorials may send them to the Georgia Baptist Children’s Home, 9420 Blackshear Highway, Baxley GA 31513.