John Forest McGee, Jr.

John Forrest McGee Jr., 78, of Leary, Georgia, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2026, at Archbold Memorial Hospital in Thomasville, Georgia, surrounded by his loving family. Born on April 14, 1947, in Albany, Georgia, to John Forrest McGee Sr. and Stella Stripling McGee, Johnny lived his entire life rooted in southwest Georgia. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, where he developed the discipline, integrity, and quiet strength that defined him. After his military service, Johnny worked as an insurance agent for Gulf Life Insurance before joining the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany, Georgia, as a procurement officer. He retired in 2008 after two decades of dedicated service supporting the Marines. Johnny’s faith was the foundation of his life. A charter member of Beacon Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia, he served faithfully for decades as its long-time minister of music, leading worship with a voice and spirit that touched countless hearts. He was also a devoted deacon and, prior to his illness, served as chairman of the deacons, guiding the congregation with wisdom, humility, and steadfast commitment. Above all, Johnny was a devoted family man. He met the love of his life, Cecelia, in 1966, and they married in November 1971. Together they built a beautiful life grounded in faith and mutual devotion. His greatest joy came from Cecelia, whose partnership was the cornerstone of his life; from his son, Shawn; and from his grandchildren, Austin and Lauren McGee, whose laughter and energy brought him endless happiness. John’s love for his family was deep, unwavering, and expressed in quiet acts of care and presence. Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, John Forrest McGee Sr. and Stella Stripling McGee; his sister, Jan; his brother-in-law, Larry Morey; and his nephew, Brad McGee. He is survived by his loving wife, Cecelia; his son, Shawn McGee; his beloved grandchildren, Austin and Lauren McGee; his brother, Barry McGee (Betty); his sister, Stacey Morey; his nephews, Jeremy Morey, Jarod McGee, and Lane Morey; and extended family members who will miss him dearly. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at Kimbrell-Stern Funeral Directors in Albany. Funeral services, officiated by Dr. Rodney Carr, will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Beacon Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia, with interment to follow at Patmos Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery. It was Johnny’s wish that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Beacon Baptist Church, 5818 Newton Road, Albany, GA 31721. John Forrest McGee Jr. leaves behind a legacy of love, duty, faith, and quiet devotion. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

John Forest McGee, Jr.

April 14, 1947 - February 4, 2026