James Edgar McAvoy Sr.

James Edgar McAvoy Sr., a beloved resident of Athens, GA, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 21st, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on Monday, March 22nd, 1937, in Washington, Georgia.

James was the cherished son of the late James Lawrence McAvoy and Nellie Worthen McAvoy. He was raised in Washington, GA, where he attended school and began to cultivate the values of hard work and integrity that would guide him throughout his life.

James proudly served his country in the United States Army, an experience that instilled in him a deep sense of duty and patriotism. After his military service, he embarked on a diverse and fulfilling career. His professional journey began with General Motors Corporation in Atlanta, GA. His career path led him to McAvoy Wood Products in Washington, GA, where he served as a manager. He later became a respected dairy farmer in Taliaferro County. James concluded his career with a rewarding tenure at Certain Teed in Athens, GA, where he worked for over 23 years before retiring.

James was a true family man, he was preceded in death by his parents, James Lawrence McAvoy and Nellie McAvoy, his first wife, Marjorie Holbrook McAvoy, his daughter Tina Marie McAvoy and his brothers, Hollis McAvoy and Darrell McAvoy.

James is survived by his wife, Mary Farmer McAvoy; his children: James Edgar McAvoy Jr. of Athens, GA; Rebecca Griffin and her husband, Tony, of Rayle, GA; and Jeffrey McAvoy and his wife, Freda, of Cleveland, GA. He was also a cherished stepfather to Jeris Farmer of Athens, GA, and Tammy Farmer Gooch and her husband, Tommy, of Hull, GA. His legacy continues through his four grandchildren: Logan Marjorie Patton and her husband Logan, Faith Brooke Griffin, Seth Emory McAvoy, and Ethan James McAvoy; four step grandchildren: William "Buck" Jackel, Ireland Axeley, Bradley Gooch, and Briana Colbertson and her husband Cody, along with one great-grandchild, Opal Patton and seven great step grandchildren.

James was a proud brother to Dale McAvoy of Conyers, GA; Kerry McAvoy and his wife Nancy of Washington, GA; Barbara Wolter and her husband Virgil of Washington, GA; and Sharon Dubois of Lincolnton, GA.

James was a man who cherished his family deeply, and his influence extended widely, touching everyone with his warmth and kindness. He was not only a remarkable father and grandfather but also a beloved brother and friend.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects and celebrate James's life during a visitation on Saturday, May 24, 2025, from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM at Bethel Church in Washington, GA. A service will follow at 11:00 AM, with Rev. Brenda Vandiver officiating. Interment will take place at the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Bethel Church, 3684 Skull Shoals Rd, Washington, GA 30673.

Arrangements are provided by Hopkins Funeral Home; James Edgar McAvoy Sr. will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who knew him.