Joseph Milton Abell

Joseph Milton Abell, 75, of Watkinsville, Georgia, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.

Born June 18, 1951, in Columbus, Georgia, Milton was the son of the late Harry Milton and Betty Jean Abell. He grew up in Fitzgerald, Georgia, and graduated from Fitzgerald High School in 1969. During his high school years, he lettered in football, basketball, baseball, track and wrestling as a Purple Hurricane. His love of sports and the outdoors remained with him throughout his life.

Milton went on to attend South Georgia Junior College before continuing his education at the University of Georgia, where he graduated in 1975 with a degree in Horticulture, specializing in turf management. His education and love of the game led him to a fulfilling career in the golf industry. Over the years, he served as a golf professional, golf course superintendent, director of golf, and golf operations and marketing director at several Georgia courses, including Green Hills Country Club, Canterbury Golf Club, the University of Georgia Golf Course, and Jennings Mill Country Club. He later served as president of Classic Golf Management. Milton took great pride in his work and in the friendships and relationships he developed throughout his career.

While golf was an important part of Milton’s life, his greatest joy was his family. He shared 54 years of marriage with his loving wife, Twinkle Starr Abell. Together, they built a life centered on family, love, and countless cherished memories. Milton was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who treasured his time with those he loved.

He is survived by his wife, Twinkle; his sons, Adam Abell (Denise) of Acworth and Franklin Abell (Penny) of Woodstock; his daughter, Allison Webb (Daniel) of Winder; and his grandchildren, McKenna Abell, Ryan Abell, Melanie Abell, Miranda Abell, and Ella Kate Webb. He is also survived by his sister, Linda Hatcher (Tommy) of Fitzgerald, and his brother, Andy Abell (Tracey) of Loganville.

In addition to his parents, Milton was preceded in death by his brother, Mike Abell of Oxnard, California, and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Frank and Onecia Starr of Fitzgerald.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Bristol Hospice, especially his nurse, Alex, for the compassionate care given to Milton. They also express their sincere appreciation to his homecare nurses, Taffy, Lisa, Tori, Jasmyne, and Marcie, whose kindness and dedication brought comfort to Milton and his family.

Milton will be remembered not only for his love of golf and the outdoors, but also for his devotion to family, the friendships he cherished, and the lasting impact he made on all that knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved by his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Athens Area Humane Society, P.O. Box 5008, Athens, GA 30604.

Lord & Stephens Funeral Home, WEST, has been entrusted with arrangements.