Grayson Leon Trapnell

Grayson Leon Trapnell, 87, was born in Metter, Georgia to Peniel and Wilma Bland Trapnell. After his father's death, he and his mother moved to Swainsboro where he graduated from high school in 1945. He entered the University of Georgia, graduating with a degree in journalism where he was active in the Sigma Chi Fraternity becoming a Life member. He served his country as a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Grayson moved to New Jersey when his mother married Robert Tull and began studies at Seton Hall gaining knowledge in business and later studied at the London School of Business. He became sales manager of the Middle East with Colgate-Palmolive International Company based in Greece. He then became the general manager for Vick International Far East based in Bangkok and managing director of Carnation International based in Singapore and Bangkok. He loved the Far East going over for extended stays after he retired.

Returning to the United States to be with his mother, he worked with First Federal Savings and Loan Association as the public relations manager. Lastly, he was the executive director of Metter/Candler County Chamber of Commerce. One of his fetes was to bring Wallace and Seneca to Metter. He joined the Lake Primitive Baptist Church was ordained as a deacon.

Grayson was a gentle person who loved people and animals. Everyone was his friend... .his dear friend. He was considerate, kind, compassionate, a gentleman, intelligent, and lover of art, drama and music.

He had two dear friends in the Far East, Metee (Mike) Chiramakara of Nakhon Sawan, Thailand and Col. Baoeki Slamet of Jakarta, Indonesia. They were very dear to his heart and spent many hours and months with them each year. Being in this many countries, he picked up the language and spoke five languages.

His dear friend, Monty Tillman, spent many hours with him as they completed crossword puzzles. McDonald's was the magic place for morning coffees and meeting friends. Monty was the brother he never had.

Survivors are cousins, Robert M. Parrish of Statesboro, Phebia (Jerry) Lanier of Metter, Judy Rimes of Statesboro, Penny Hagin of Hiawassee; and Monty (Paula) Tillman of Pulaski; and other cousins and relatives.

Grayson became a resident of Cedar Plantation April of 2014 and lived there until his death. We are thankful for the staff and care he received there. He had wonderful dedicated sitters who took care of his every need, Stephanie Byrd, Bernice Humphrey, Katrina Sue Woods, Keisha Dekle and Judy Beacham.

Funeral services will be held Friday, 11:00 am, at Kennedy Funeral Homes, Hooks Chapel, with Elder Randy Waters officiating. Burial will be in the Lake Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Pallbearers will be Dr. Felix Johnston, John Glanton, Brian Lightle, Reggie Lanier, Kyle Durrence and Buie Leverettle. Honoraries will be his dedicated sitters. Guest book: www.kennedyfuneralhomes.com.

Kennedy Funeral Homes, Hooks Chapel, of Metter is in charge of arrangements.