Mrs. Wilma McCarty Rowell, age 84, of Hazlehurst, passed away on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the Community Hospice House in Vidalia.

She was born on February 20, 1942, in Lyons, Georgia to the late John and Lexie Bell McCarty. Wilma was a lifelong resident of Hazlehurst and was affectionately known by many as “the Avon Lady,” a role she proudly held for more than 50 years. A true hard worker who genuinely enjoyed staying busy, Wilma was the owner and operator of Rowell Trailer Sales alongside her husband, Jr., and also operated Unique Fashions with her sister, Mabel. She enjoyed traveling and making memories on cruises, but above all, she cherished her family. Wilma was a member of Liberty Baptist Church and also attended Hazlehurst Pentecostal Church. Known for her kind and humble spirit, she never hesitated to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Her love for her family, her generous heart, and her strong work ethic were a beautiful reflection of the woman she was and the legacy she leaves behind.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Charles “Jr.” Rowell; her son, Wayne Rowell; her daughter, Darlene Rowell; and several brothers and sisters.

Wilma is survived by her sons, Ricky (Ellen) Rowell of Douglas, Earl (Cindy) Black of Blackshear, and Sammy (Lisa) Black of Hazlehurst; her brother, Ronnie McCarty (Earline Bowen) of Hazlehurst; his grandson and wife, Matthew and Kristi Rowell, and several other grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home with Rev. Charles Carter and Rev. David Barber officiating.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until just prior to the service.

Burial will follow in the Liberty Community Church Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Chris Rowell, Dan Rowell, Tye Rentz, Toby Black, Levi Powell, and Dustin Farmer.

Honorary pallbearers will be her special niece, Libby (Greg) McCreery, Jack Wood, and all friends and family in attendance.

The family can be contacted at 1034 Altamaha Rd, Hazlehurst, Georgia 31539.

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