John Baxter Agnew, age 47, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Lavonia on Monday, December 12, 2011. In death, he attained the peace that he could rarely seem to find in life. He was a member of the Lavonia United Methodist Church and a member of the Lavonia Masonic Lodge # 241.
John was a certified occupational therapy assistant, having graduated in that field from the Medical College of Georgia. He was also a graduate of The University of Phoenix with a degree in Health Care Management. Increasing chronic health issues the last two years prevented John from working in his field. While able to work, his patients, especially children and the elderly, absolutely adored him. He had a special gift of caring that will be sorely missed. Before becoming disabled, John also worked part-time with Tri-County Podiatric Clinic in Toccoa.
When he was able, John loved working outside, taking great pride in raising a garden, working with his John Deere tractor, and training his dog, Bella.
John was preceded in death by his father and mother Joe and Peggy Williams Agnew of Lavonia. He is survived by his loving step-mother, Lorena Stowe Agnew of Lavonia, brothers, Ron Agnew and wife Belinda of Winder, David Agnew and wife Gloria of Clarkesville, nephews, Brian and Colin Agnew of Atlanta, nieces, Mrs. Richard (Katrina) Conway of Athens, Mrs. Brian (Sarabeth) Fowler of Indian Trail, NC, and Mrs. Iain (Rebecca) Creswell of Athens; and aunt, Mrs. Don (Dixie) Kenney of Covington.
A funeral service will be held at Strickland Funeral Home on Bear Creek Road in Lavonia on Thursday, December 15, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Randall Massengill officiating. Burial will follow at Franklin Memorial Gardens – North with full Masonic Rites. The following gentlemen are asked to serve as pallbearers: Brian Agnew, Colin Agnew, Richard Conway, Brian Fowler, Iain Creswell, Scott Cochran, Charles Cawthon, and Joe Deboskey.
The family will receive friends at Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia, Wednesday, December 14, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Memorials may be made to the Lavonia United Methodist Church or to the American Cancer Society.