Athel "Sonny" Bell Furr Obituary (1927

Athel Bell "Sonny" Furr 97 of Mount Crawford peacefully, went to be with his Lord and savior on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was proud to be the oldest member of four generations living together at Greenbank Manor Farm. He was born in the Mount Solon area, adopted by Ernest Bell and Betty Bowers Furr after being left on their doorstep shortly after his birth. Sonny was many things to those he leaves here on this earth. A dad, granddad, great-grandad, brother, uncle, and friend. He graduated from North River High School in 1945. He started in the insurance business, moved on to American Finance and finished his career in the banking world, retiring at age 83. He was a man who truly enjoyed working. He loved the people he worked with and assisting his customers. In 1946 he married the former Sally Marie Moyers of Rawley Springs, who preceded him in death on October 23, 2010. They enjoyed 64 happy years together. Both were members of Mount Olive Presbyterian Church. Their favorite past time was taking car rides on all the back roads in the area and stopping for little picnics. Sonny was fascinated with new cars, "only Chevrolets". Sonny is survived by his daughter Pam and her husband Randy Collins, who he claimed as a true son, and three grandchildren. Joshua Collins (Corri), Daniel Collins (Martha) and Lourdes Fernandez. He was great-granddaddy to Caleb, Cameran and Carter Collins, River and Terra Collins, Taylor and Charlie Poulton, Autumn and Sierra Nesselrodt, and great- great grandad to Ashton Penrod. Sonny also claimed Sara Lipscomb as a granddaughter. She provided him with excellent care over the last several years. Sonny was so excited to have found his brother Buddy Shaver, wife Ellen and sister Betty Conn and husband Ken. He was welcomed into their families with open arms. Sonny was blessed with good health and was active, taking care of personal needs and his little dog Wrenn until the last two weeks of his life. He came under the excellent care of Gentiva Hospice on February 16th. Sonny spoke often that he was headed home to Jesus, and he was ready. Sonny ran his race well and we invite you to celebrate his life at the Collins farm where he made his home for the last 10 years. It will be a time of sharing memories, remembering good times and of course a meal. All are welcome, 1299 North River Road Mount Crawford on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Olive Presbyterian Church, 9148 Rawley Pike, Hinton, VA 22831. The burial will be private with McMullen Funeral Home handling arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.mcmullenfh.com.