Howard "Pete" R Thornell

Howard Randall “Pete” Thornell, 77, of Cataula, Georgia, returned to his heavenly home on September 4, 2016 after a valiant battle with a long illness. His devotion to his family and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggle and ultimately gave him peace.

Pete was born to the late Bud and Sallie Thornell in Elmore County, Alabama on October 27, 1938. He was a longtime member of Gentian Baptist Church in Columbus. He managed Pritchett’s Kitchenette for over 40 years and later worked for Striffler – Hamby Mortuary for 13 years until retiring due to an injury.

Pete was blessed with a large and loving family. He married his best friend and high school sweetheart, Nadine Dalton Thornell on June 2, 1957 at Mount Zion Church in Columbus, Georgia. A special thank you to Connie Dixon, his caregiver for the past 5 years.

Pete is survived by his wife, Nadine; his daughters, Sandy Roddy (Jimmy) and Lynne Wilson (Cassidy); his grandchildren, Whitney Shaffer (Lucas), Chris Davenport (Kelsi), Chelsey Barber (Donnie), Morgan Osbon, and Sha Wilson; his great-grandchildren, Gus Shaffer, Broughton Shaffer, and Mason Barber; several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and 5 siblings.

Visitation for Pete will be held at Striffler – Hamby, 4071 Macon Road on Tuesday, September 6, 2016 from 6 P.M. until 8 P.M. Funeral services will be 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, September 7, 2016 in Edgewood Hall of Striffler – Hamby with a private interment in Parkhill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Gentiva Hospice or Gentian Baptist Church.