Julia MacDonell

Julia LaGarde MacDonell
Augusta, GA - Julia LaGarde MacDonell, 96, died Wednesday, December 23, 2020 at home and entered the presence of her Lord. She was the loving and devoted wife of the late Alexander Henry MacDonell, Jr. and the devoted mother of two dear sons: Dr. Alex H. MacDonell III of Augusta and Allen LaGarde MacDonell of Austin, TX.

Mrs. MacDonell was born in Corinth, Mississippi on January 28, 1924. She was the youngest daughter of Edward Watkins LaGarde and Lelia Milam LaGarde. She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters: Virginia LaGarde Keaton Anderson and Lillie M. LaGarde.

Her early education was in the Corinth schools. She graduated from Mississippi University for Women with a Bachelor of Science degree in Library Science and Languages. She accepted a position upon graduation with the New York City Public Library and enjoyed one and a half years there. Returning to Corinth, she worked briefly at the Corinth Alcorn County Library and later worked as librarian for the public schools of Atlanta, GA. She met and married her husband while in Atlanta and they made their home there and reared two sons. She was actively involved in her neighborhood, her children’s schools, and volunteer services. She was an active member of North Avenue Presbyterian Church where she served as Women’s Bible Moderator, Sunday School teacher, and choir member. She was a board member of Engrafted Word Ministries.

Julia and Alex moved to Augusta, GA in 1999. They became faithful members of First Presbyterian Church and the Trinity Bible Class. For many years they have held a Bible study in their home. Her life was focused on her love for the Lord and nurturing and loving her family. Her zest for life and her joy was shared with her many friends and family. Julia loved to entertain, and her door was always open for a meal and fellowship. She was a member of the Augusta Chapter of DAR.

Survivors include her two dear sons and their wives: Dr. Alex H. MacDonell III (Judy) and Allen L. MacDonell (Sarah) and her seven beloved grandchildren: Alex IV (Charlotte), Kathryn MacDonell Akin (Stephen), Robert (Elizabeth), Julian (Chelby), Hannah, Olivia, Shaeleigh MacDonell and 4 great grandchildren: Henry, Wallace, and William MacDonell and Molly Akin.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to all of the caregivers who provided loving and compassionate care to Mrs. MacDonell.

A memorial service will be held Monday, December 28, 2020 at 11:00 A.M. at First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Mike Hearon officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the church. A private burial will be held at Westover Memorial Park.

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

Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com