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William Cuy Harrell, Sr. (Billy), age 81, died peacefully and surrounded by love in his home (his favorite place to be on God’s green earth) on May 12, 2023.  His funeral will be at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, May 16 at Whigham Methodist Church, where he was a faithful and loyal member for many, many years.  Following the service, there will be a graveside visitation.  

Billy was born on August 25, 1941 and spent his entire life living in and among the Whigham community.  He graduated from Whigham School in 1959.  Classmate Grace Stallings fondly remembers him in a few ways: “a good and very bright boy,” “never had a teacher get on to him at school,” “cute,” and “every girl’s dream for a date.”  Jerry D. Maxwell, another beloved classmate, also remembers Billy as “one of the smart boys with good grades,” as well as “the one with the new automobiles.”  After high school, Billy attended ABAC.  He then returned home to manage the family farm.  

Those who knew Billy best know he was a man of few words.  He was quiet and reserved, with a gentle and humble spirit.  If there ever was a humble man, it was Billy Harrell.  His children and grandchildren will remember him as a father and “Pop” who would do just about anything that he possibly could for them.  Family, neighbors, and friends will remember not only Billy’s love for eating catfish, but the sheer joy and delight he got from frying up a mess of fish for others.  Billy Harrell and fried catfish went hand in hand.  Billy was not a materialistic person at all, but he did have one prized possession: his zero turn lawn mower.  Nobody enjoyed mowing their yards as much as Billy Harrell.  In addition to taking care of his yard, Billy loved feeding and looking after each horse and every other kind of critter his “favorite granddaughter,” Janie Belle, brought home to the farm over the years.  Finally and most importantly, what you should remember about Billy is his endearing heart: he had a servant’s heart, and his walk with Jesus was a steadfast and committed one.  

Pallbearers include Billy’s dear family and friends: Luke R. Bell, Cuy Harrell III, David Schrader, and his three grandsons, Austin Wiggins, Dallas Wiggins, and William Cuy Harrell, III. 

Billy is preceded in death by his father (Norwood Harrell), mother (Janie Belle Harrell), and sister (Lena Belle Harrell).

Billy is survived by his four children and their mother: Sonia Wiggins (Allen), Belle Harrell, William Cuy Harrell, Jr. (Allison), Heidi Sholar (Ray), and Sheridan S. Harrell.  He is also survived by his four grandchildren: Austin Wiggins (Lacie), Dallas Wiggins, Janie Belle Harrell, and William Cuy Harrell, III.

If you know Billy, you know he wouldn’t expect a thing from you in honor of his death.  He was that kind of man.  But for those asking, his family invites you to consider giving all monetary donations to his church, Whigham Methodist Church, where he once proudly served as the church treasurer.  Of course, flowers are welcome, too.  (As he told his own children, one of his favorite childhood memories was helping his sister, Lena Belle, pick flowers on late afternoon walks after school.)  Most importantly, though, please remember Billy in your hearts always.  He would say that’s what matters the most.

Memorials to the church may be mailed to Dr. James and Helen Cox, 4159 Old Whigham Road, Climax, GA, 39834.  

Bryant Funeral Home, located at 105 N. Florida Street, is assisting the family with arrangements. (229-246-3321)