Dr. John Sentell Avant, Sr., affectionately known as "Pop," passed away peacefully at home on December 29, 2024. Born on November 11, 1940, in Opp, Alabama, he was the beloved son of Mary Nell (Hines) Avant and Ralph Avant, both of whom predeceased him.
Pop was preceded in death by his son, John Sentell Avant, Jr., and leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion in his surviving son, George Lanier Avant, and his wife, Leigh. He was the proud grandfather of three grandsons: John Sentell Avant, II, Robert Patton Avant, and Henry Lanier Avant, who were the light of his life. He is also survived by his sisters, Ann Avant Crichton and Ellen Avant Donaldson.
A true family man, Pop cherished the time he spent with his grandsons, passing down his passions for the outdoors, his love of adventure, and his boundless wisdom.
Dr. Avant dedicated his life to his dental practice, where he cared deeply for his patients and his loyal staff, who adored him in return. Bertha Hurt worked faithfully by his side for 49 years and continued to provide invaluable care during his later years. Cathy Murphy, his trusted “right hand,” kept him organized and grounded throughout his career and remained a steadfast support in his retirement. His farm manager, Ben Trammel, was a true jack of all trades, always there to help Pop with whatever needed doing.
Beyond his work, Pop was an avid outdoorsman with a love for hunting, fishing, gardening, skiing, and traveling. He found immense joy in sharing these passions with his family, teaching them to appreciate the beauty of nature and the thrill of adventure.
Pop’s commitment to his community and profession was unparalleled. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Columbus, GA, and served as President of the Western District Dental Association. He was a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, a member of the Georgia Board of Dentistry, and served on the CB&T Board. His love of camaraderie extended to the B&B Investment Club and the Big Eddy Club, where he served as President. He was also a Master Gardener, showcasing his green thumb and love of the earth.
Pop lived a full and meaningful life, marked by service, generosity, and an unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and faith. His gentle spirit, quick wit, and steadfast love will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at 3:00 PM in Parkhill Cemetery, 4161 Macon Road, Columbus, GA 31907 with Rev. Dr. Buddy Cooper officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to NOLS. www.nols.edu
