Fred Earl Rowell

Mr. Fred Earl Rowell, age 82, of Hazlehurst, passed away on Monday, May 26, 2025, at his home.

He was born on July 23, 1942 in Hazlehurst where he lived all his life. He was a devoted member of Oakland Baptist Church and spent much of his life doing what he loved—working the land and serving others. As a manager and farmer with Ocmulgee Tractor Company, he built lasting relationships with customers and farmers from all across the country. Known for his dedication and warm-hearted nature, Fred was deeply respected by his co-workers and all who had the pleasure of working with him.

Outside of work, he found joy in riding his tractor, spending time outdoors, and sharing laughter with those around him. His quick wit and love of “cutting up” brought smiles to many faces. Fred was a family man through and through. He cherished his brothers, sisters, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and held a special place in his heart for his beloved wife, with whom he is now joyfully reunited. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred Lee Rowell and Cora Addis Wages Rowell; his wife, Betty LaNell Rowell; his brother, Jimmy Rowell; his sisters, Eunice Bohannon, Louise Swisegood, Billie Jean Messenger, and Geraldine Floyd; and his grand-daughter, Stacia Lee Flood.

Fred’s loved ones include his son, Craig Rowell (Melissa) of Hazlehurst; his daughter, Tena Rowell of Hazlehurst; his brother, Joby Rowell (Joyce) of Hazlehurst; his sister, Cindy McLain (Glenn) of Hazlehurst; his grandchildren, Logan Stone (Chelsea) of Folkston, Nick Rowell of Hazlehurst, Alexis Rowell of Pooler, Jessi Lee Poole (Josh) of Lyons, Harley NeeSmith (Cody), Hailee Waldron (Andrew), and Dalton Sellers, all of Hazlehurst; his great-grandchildren, Raina Ward, Bristol Stone, Lenox Poole, Anna-Beth NeeSmith, Ellie Kate Stone, Addison NeeSmith, Lincoln Poole, and Truett Waldron; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday evening, May 28, 2025, from 5 P.M. until 7 P.M. in the chapel of Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home.

The funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at Oakland Baptist Church with Rev. Royce Hulett officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Chris Parlor, Brandon Parlor, Jason Bohannon, Kelvin Bohannon, Ricky Floyd, and Dax Rowell.

Honorary pallbearers will be David Clark, E.H. Claxton, Nancy and Wayne Kirkland, Junior and Cathy Sharpe, Gail and Wayne Hall, Bobby and Cheryl McNeal, Linda Sammons, Lealonie Bryant, Melvin Mims, Donald Parlor, Kenny and Linda K. Parlor, Rafael Lara, Deric Bohannon, and members of the Senior Adult Sunday School Class.

The family may be contacted at their residence, 40 Comer Yawn Rd, Hazlehurst, GA 31539

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

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