“

He was a strong patriarch, a trusted friend, and a valued mentor to those who knew him.

Mr. Archie J. Connell, age 86, of Hazlehurst, passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at Coffee Regional Medical Center.

He was born on August 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 his son-in-law, Chris Owens.

Archie is survived by his son, Marvin (Angie) Connell of Thomasville, Pennsylvania; his daughters, Deborah (Scott) Butler of Hazlehurst, Tammy Renee Connell (Greg Terry) of Doerun, and Angie Owens of McRae; his 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.

The family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in the chapel of Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home.

Graveside services and interment will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in the Oak Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Brad Owens, Ben Owens, Adam Owens, Chris Barnard, Darrell Hullett, and Braydon Waters.

A meal will be served for family and friends at Grace Community Church on Friday immediately following the graveside service.

Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home and the Connell family are in charge of arrangements.