Roy Hardy Meeler

The world gave us this man, and this man gave us the world!

Our father, Roy Hardy Meeler, 78 of Bishop, passed away peacefully Saturday, November 26, 2022, with his family by his side.

Born March 26, 1944, at home in Farmington, Georgia, he was the middle son of the late Howard Thomas and Katie Mae Burkhalter Meeler. He was proceeded in death by son-in-law, Glenn Farmer.

Roy began his professional career as a tradesman along Baxter Street in Athens where at the University of Georgia he helped construct several of the campus dormitories before laying the cornerstone of St. Mary’s Hospital just down the road.

He was later mentored and driven by “daddy” Tom Smith, who allowed him to master his mechanical skills at Milledge Avenue Chevron Station, before becoming the successful business owner and operator of Downtown Gulf in Athens, for more than 25 years.

A man of men, a leader of all, the foundation of the Meeler legacy, and a lifelong Oconee resident, Roy was a former coach and board member of Oconee County Little League, a member of Rays Methodist Church and was well-known for his BBQ chicken and secret sauce.

His hobbies included spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, hunting and fishing, the Georgia Bulldogs, gardening, camping and automotive repair (he could fix or repair almost anything), and piddling, as he was always doing something.

Roy is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Barbara Ann Moon Meeler; children, Mark Meeler (Brent), Lynn Farmer and Greg Meeler (Shasta); grandchildren, Victoria Farmer (Coleman Marett), Lindsey Farmer, Drew Farmer, and Aidan Meeler; and great grandson, Abel Petree.

In addition, Roy leaves behind seven brothers/sisters, Irene Gunter (Robert), Fay Meeler, Howard Meeler, Jimmy Meeler (Donna), Brenda Dove, Janice Helton (Jack) and Becky Meeler-Teat. He was a loved and respected uncle, survived by numerous nieces and nephews, a multitude of lifelong friends, and a stranger to none.

A memorial service will be held January 7 at half past eleven at Rays Methodist Church in Bishop. Pastor’s Jerry Varnado and Wayne Butler will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Ray’s Methodist Church, 1521 Ray’s Church Road, Bishop, GA 30621.

Remember, don’t take any wooden nickels!

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, WEST, Watkinsville, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com