Alexander Henry MacDonell, Jr

Alexander Henry MacDonell, Jr.

Augusta, GA –Alexander Henry MacDonell, Jr., 96, died on Sunday, March 29, 2015 at The Veterans Administration Hospital and entered into the presence of the Lord. He was the faithful and loving husband of Julie LaGarde MacDonell, and the devoted father of two dear sons: Dr. Alexander H. MacDonell III of Augusta and Allen LaGarde MacDonell of Austin, TX.

Mr. MacDonell was born in St. Mary’s, Georgia on November 21, 1918 the son of Alexander Henry MacDonell, Sr. and Maria Richardson MacDonell. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother John Richardson MacDonell and a sister Catherine Allen MacDonell.

He attended the St. Mary’s schools, later transferring to Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville, GA. He graduated from Georgia Tech in 1940 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering. He enjoyed the brotherhood of Phi Sigma Kappa social fraternity while there.

Soon after graduating from Georgia Tech he served his country with distinction during World War II as executive officer and navigator on several submarines in the United States Navy Submarine Service. Commander MacDonell served 5 years in the South Pacific. He and Julie made their home in Atlanta, GA where they reared their sons. He was employed at Lockheed Aircraft and with the United States Government. He was an active member of North Avenue Presbyterian Church where he served as a deacon and in other responsible functions. He was a board member of Engrafted Word Ministries. For many years, Alex was active in his neighborhood and was on the board of directors for the Briarcliff Woods Civic Association. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club. He was a skilled wood crafter and carver which enabled him to make authentic model ships as a hobby, and some hand crafted furniture. Alex and Julie relocated to Augusta in 1999. They became faithful members of First Presbyterian Church and the Trinity Bible Class.

Survivors include his cherished and loving wife: Julie; sons and their wives: Dr. Alexander H. MacDonell III (Judy) and Allen L. MacDonell (Sarah); and his seven beloved grandchildren: Alex IV (Charlotte), Robert, Kathryn MacDonell and Julian, Hannah, Olivia, and Shaeleigh MacDonell.

The family wishes to express their deepest love and gratitude to all their dear friends and the care givers who reached out in kindness and love to Mr. MacDonell during his extended illness.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, April 2, 2015 at 11:00 A.M. at First Presbyterian Church with Dr. George Robertson, Rev. Jim Knight, and Dr. Leslie Holmes officiating.

If so desired, memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 642 Telfair Street, Augusta, GA 30901.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, April 1, 2015 from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M. at Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com