Jimmy "Randy" Randall Gabriel

J. Randy Gabriel, 68, of Colbert, GA passed away on September 16, 2023.

A native and lifelong resident of Oglethorpe County, he was the son of the late Robert William Gabriel Sr. and Sybil Irene Gabriel. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by three nephews and one niece.

He is survived by his lovely wife of 45 years, Donna Marie Gabriel; son and daughter in law: Logan and Crystal Gabriel; grandchildren: Kinleigh Darracott and Coralynn Gabriel; two brothers: William “Dub” Gabriel (Felicia) and Greg Gabriel; two half-sisters: Marlene and Darlene Gabriel; and four nephews.

Randy was heavily involved in many 4H programs in Madison County and Oglethorpe County for many years. He had a passion for teaching firearm safety and sports to the members of 4H. Randy was a coach on the Madison County 4H shotgun team for 2 years, and the Oglethorpe County shotgun team for 11 years. He also assisted in coaching the Madison County archery and BB gun team. He impacted the lives of countless young adults in the 4H S.A.F.E Programs. Naturally, Randy also loved to hunt and had a joy for anything outdoors related. He would take any child hunting that wanted to learn and very much enjoyed doing so. Randy worked at the University of Georgia in the animal and dairy science department and farmed for many years, but he was most known as a cowboy.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday September 21, 2023, in the chapel of Lord and Stephens Funeral Home East, at 4:00 pm. A visitation will take place one hour prior to the service from 3:00-4:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Oglethorpe County 4H Shotgun Team in Randy's name. To donate, call (706-743-8341) or visit the Oglethorpe County 4H Office (55 Oglethorpe Dr. Crawford, GA 30630)  and request to donate to the 4H Shotgun Program.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, EAST, Athens is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com