John N Sexton,

Rev. John Norrell Sexton,Sr., 76, of Elberton, Georgia passed away Monday, September 24, 2018 at Piedmont Athens Regional Hospital.Born in Washington, DC, he was the son of the late George N. and Lula Mae Branner Sexton.Rev. Sexton graduated from Athens Tech earning a degree in Machine Tool Technology and completed the Course of Study, Emory University, Candler School of Theology.He served as Assistant Scout Master of Troop 1, Ft. Devens, Massachusetts and Scout Master of Troop 20, Elberton, Georgia.He received awards from Woodmen of the World and Scouting.Rev. Sexton served as pastor of Stinchcomb United Methodist Church for 15 years. Rev. Sexton retired from the U.S. Army after more than 20 years of service, having received the rank of Sergeant First Class.He served one tour in Vietnam and also served in the Army Security Agency, Military Intelligence, and National Security Agency.He received a Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal (1st – 6th Awards), National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/60 Device, and Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Palm.He was a life member of the local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5456. In addition to his parents, Rev.Sexton was preceded in death by a daughter, Susan Elizabeth Sexton; and sisters, Christina Hope S. Bellows of Weidman, Michigan, Katherine “Kay” S. McGarry of Eaton Rapids, Michigan and Barbara Ann S. Ross of Louisville, Kentucky. Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Susan Rousey Sexton of Elberton; son, John N. Sexton, Jr. of Burnt Ranch, California; grandsons, Ezra and Eli Sexton of Oak Run, California and Brandon Russo of Burnt Ranch, California; sister Marie S. (Bill) Howe of Bath, Michigan; and several nieces and nephews in Michigan and Kentucky. A Memorial Service, with Military Honors, was held Friday, September 28th at 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Hicks Funeral Home.Rev. Calvin Ward officiated.A time of visitation began at 2:00 p.m. Friday, just prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Stinchcomb UMC, C/O Vee McIntosh, 2091 Deep Creek Road, Dewy Rose, GA 30634, or to the charity of one’s choice. Arrangements for Rev. John N. Sexton, Sr. were in the care of Hicks Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Elberton.