Bill Wayne Harwell

Bill Wayne Harwell, 78, of Sandersville passed away peacefully with his family by his side on April 23, 2026. He was born on June 30, 1947 in Chickasaw, AL. After high school, Bill received his degree in Forestry. He then went into the oil field, and retired as a Tool Pusher and Senior Onsite Supervisor from Delta Drilling Company. Bill had a deep passion for drag racing and bass fishing, two hobbies that brought him great joy throughout his life. He even built his wife of 50 years, Becky, her very own racecar; a true reflection of both his skill and love for her. Some of his happiest moments were spent fishing alongside his best friend, John Jefcoat. Above all else, Bill loved his wife more than anything, and he devoted his life to making sure she always knew just how much she meant to him. In his later years, Bill found his greatest joy in the quiet moments spent beside his beloved wife, reminiscing about the life they built together. They proudly talked about their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Even though his wife suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, Bill found meaningful ways to be close to her. In his final days, he found comfort in listening to the songs that had meant so much to them both, a gentle reminder of a lifetime of love he carried with him until the very end. Bill was preceded in death by his father, Isaac Lynn Harwell, Sr.; his mother, Agnes Carnley Harwell; his brother, Freddy Harwell; and his grandson, Ryan Roberts. Bill is survived by his wife, Rebecca Jewel “Becky” Harwell; his brothers, Lynn Harwell and Ben Harwell (Linda); his sisters, Ann Killiam (Harry-deceased), Jean Jordan (Howard), Fay Emmons (Wayne-deceased), and Barbara Soley; his children, Melissa Roberts (James), Christy Carr (Pat), Jeff Harwell, and Kim Harwell; his grandchildren, Brandon Roberts (Garret), Bradley Roberts (Teresa), Kristin Bumgardner (Justin), Liana Harwell, Jacob Harwell (Hannah), Summer Harwell, Paige Harwell, Emily Sumrall, and Adrianne Sumrall; his great-grandchildren, Rayne Bumgardner, Dallas Bumgardner, Cory Harwell, and Finley Roberts; and a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews. Upon his request, there will be a private “Celebration of Life” for family and close friends on Monday, April 27th. In lieu of flowers, please make any donations to ComfortCare Hospice in Laurel, MS. To view and sign the online guestbook, please visit www.memorychapellaurel.com

Bill Wayne Harwell

June 30, 1947 - April 23, 2026