Celestia Purcell Killingsworth Arrington

Celestia Purcell Killingsworth Arrington, 98, of Athens, died Sunday, June 14, 2026. Born February 28, 1928, in Madison, she was the daughter of the late Jones Woodfin Purcell and Celestia Wood Purcell. She grew up on Cloverhurst Avenue in Athens, graduated from Athens High School, and earned her degree from the University of Georgia in December 1948.

Celestia was a retired special education teacher. A devoted and loyal member of First Presbyterian Church of Athens, Celestia sang in the choir and found enduring purpose in the life of the church. She also gave generously of her time as a volunteer with St. Mary's Hospital and shared her love of music as a singer with the Athens Choral Society.

Celestia was twice married, first to the late Rev. Howard H. Killingsworth and second to the late William Smith Arrington Jr. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands; her daughter, Sue Killingsworth Berry; and her brother, Captain J.W. Purcell.

She is survived by her children, Anne Smith (Craig), Beth Duggan (Chris) and John Killingsworth (Tim Gniewoz); grandchildren, Shawn Parnell (Katie), Katie Clark (Cameron) and Christopher Duggan (Callie); seven great-grandchildren; and a niece, Cathy Johnson.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at First Presbyterian Church of Athens, 185 E. Hancock Avenue, Athens. A reception will follow the service at the church.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.