Rev. Dr. Jack Colwell

Rev. Dr. Jack Colwell, age 88, of 87 Glenmary Lane West, Richmond Hill, Georgia, died Saturday, December 28, 2024, at his residence.

Born in Blairsville, he was the son of the late Albert Carlton Colwell, Sr. and Grapelle England Colwell.  Jack spent his career as a pastor in several churches in Georgia and North Carolina in his 38 years of full time ministry.  After he and Gwen retired, he continued serving churches in interim and supply positions, as well as teaching numerous religion and psychology courses as an adjunct professor at Mercer University.  He was very proud of being able to continue preaching and teaching until the age of 80.

Known to many as "Brother" or "Reverend," Jack was pastor, counselor, leader, father figure and friend to everyone he met.  His great big hugs and contagious smile drew people to him, and subsequently to God.

He and Gwen are revered by numerous people whose lives they impacted, but likely none as much as the Liberian students who came through Mercer University and First Baptist Church of Christ in Macon.  Many of them spent holidays with the Colwells, called them "Grandpa" and "Grandma" and invited them to share in the joy of their weddings and growing families.  That is the story for countless others who have known and loved them throughout the years,

In his final days, Jack spent as much time as he could with his family, celebrating Christmas and enjoying time together.  His wife, children and grandchildren were the pride of his life and he leaves behind a legacy of love in each one of them.

Survivors include: Wife:  Gwen Colwell of Richmond Hill

Daughters: Gail Slater (Damian Halstad) of Westminster, MD Laura McKay of Richmond Hill

Son:  Clark Colwell of Richmond Hill

Brother:  Max Colwell of Fletcher, NC

Sister:  Dottie Coltrane (Al) of Hoover, AL

Grandchildren: Justin Colwell of Frederick, MD Amber Slater of Baltimore, MD Logan Stewart (Georgina) of Pooler Grant Slater (Ashley) of Westminster, MD Evan Stewart (Grem) of Savannah

He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Eileen Pham and his brother, Albert Carlton Colwell, Jr.

A graveside service will be held at 11 AM Wednesday, January 1 in Liberty Cemetery.

A memorial service will be held at 3 PM Wednesday, January 1 at First Baptist Church of Christ in Macon.

Memorial gifts may be made to Habitat for Humanity International, 332 West Lamar Street, Americus, Georgia 31709-3543.

Matthew 25:23 says, "Well done, good and faithful servant...come and share in your Master's happiness."  All who knew him can be confident he is sharing in that happiness today.

Brannen-NeSmith Funeral Home of Vienna has charge of arrangements.