Dekle Dean Todd Sr.

Dekle Dean Todd, Sr., 90, peacefully transitioned into his eternity on December 26, 2024, at the Gibson Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center. Born on November 16, 1934, in Dublin, Dekle lived a life of love, generosity, and an unwavering faith.

After completing high school in Beaufort, South Carolina, he pursued further education by attending Georgia Military College in Milledgeville as a cadet and graduated with an Associate's degree. Following his education, Dekle returned to Beaufort where he began his career at the Georgia Ports Authority in Savannah. In 1966, he joined the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) union, contributing his skills to numerous projects across the United States, including the Savannah Post Office, the Twin Towers in New York City, and the Watts Bar Nuclear Plant in Tennessee. His dedication to his work was matched by his commitment to family, as he ultimately retired to Wadley to care for his father, later moving to Avera to be closer to his children.

While in Beaufort, he joined the Masons and enjoyed the fellowship as a member of Harmony Lodge # 22. A patriot who loved his country, Dekle joined the National Guard as a Cadet where he was known for his skills in driving and maneuvering a M-1 tank.

Dekle’s passions included a variety of hobbies; he was an avid water skier in his youth and a founding member of the Beaufort Water Festival. His enthusiasm for life was also evident through his appreciation for the great outdoors — he loved to hunt, fish, and took pleasure in traveling. Many cherished memories were created while he rode "shotgun" with his grandson on cross-country trips. In addition to these joys, he had a deep affinity for collecting rare coins and guns, showcasing his many interests.

A man of faith, Dekle accepted God's free gift of salvation through His son, Jesus, at a young age. He was a member of Childs Memorial Baptist Church in Harriman, TN and attended Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Avera, where his faith provided him with assurance and hope throughout all seasons of life. 

Dekle was known for his easygoing nature and his ability to connect with people; he never met a stranger and made friends wherever he went. Known as a “hugger”, he brought joy to all around him, living life to its fullest, and treasured the time spent with his family. His love encompassed not only his children but extended through generations, leaving behind a legacy that includes his children, Dekle Todd Jr. (Cathy) and Leisa T. Hadden (David); seven grandchildren, Dekle Whealton, Dekle Todd III, Joshua Maxwell (Lisa), Austin Maxwell, Chuck Jones, Zachary Schaeffer, and Emily Hadden; and twelve great-grandchildren, Lilly Morgan, Adam Morgan, Jasmine Morgan, Violet Morgan, Xavier Maxwell, Draven Maxwell, Anya Maxwell, Aubree Jones, Kayla Jones, Ashton Hadden, Hunter Hadden, and Reese Hadden. He is also survived by his brother, Wendell Todd (Vernell), along with nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

Dekle is predeceased by his son, Calvin Todd; grandson, Donald Christopher Hadden; his parents, Eva Jones Todd and William Addison Todd; and his brother, Truman Todd Sr.

Rev. Mark Bowers will officiate a memorial service in celebration of Dekle's life at 11:00 AM Thursday, January 2, 2025 at James Funeral Home with a gathering of family and friends following the service. 

The family respectfully request that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made directly to James Funeral Home by mailing to PO Box 588, Wrens GA 30833 or by made by accessing the following web address:  https://www.jamesfhwrens.com/resources/make-a-payment 

The life of Dekle Dean Todd serves as a profound reminder of the impact one individual can have through love, friendship, and kindness. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.