Joe McElhaney was born on March 17, 1956 at Mary Sherman Hospital in Sullivan, Indiana and died on June 10, 2024 at Memorial Hospital in Savannah, Georgia after a traumatic brain injury. He was the son of Robert and Phyllis (Baughman) McElhaney. Joe was a 1975 graduate of North Central High School in Farmersburg, Indiana. Immediately after High School, Joe enlisted in the U. S. Army where he completed his basic training at Ft. Leonard Wood, MO specializing in diesel mechanic training. During his Army service, Joe earned medals in Expert M16, Sharpshooter and Grenade Training. His overseas tour in Mannheim, Germany with the 512th Main Co (USAREUR) was the most memorable experience for Joe. He had many beer steins and impressive stories from his time in Germany.
Besides beer steins and caps, Joe also loved to collect eagles and was fascinated with their habitat and freedom. He had eagle shirts, eagle hats, eagle throws, eagle blankets…well, you get the picture. Joe was generous to a fault— just ask any waitress in Rincon or Pooler. He was a quiet, gentle man who loved his family, friends, and dogs. Joe was a dedicated worker who retired after 30+ years from Carlton/Yancey Bros/Caterpillar Company. During his retirement years, he has enjoyed being a part of the Effingham Senior Center where he enjoyed friendships and BINGO.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Phyllis McElhaney and brother-in-law Ron Wise. He is survived by his sons Timothy McElhaney of Rincon, GA; John (Kristie) Lafollette of Guyton, GA; and Danny (Debbie) Lafollette of Woodstock, GA; his ex-wife and friend, Susan (Ron) Rahn of Guyton, GA; grandchildren Megan LaFollette of Richmond Hill, GA; Jonathan Lafollette of Guyton, GA, and Daniel Lafollette of Woodstock, GA; sister, Kathy Wise of Cleveland, TN; and several nieces, nephews and friends.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Brother Kenneth Harrelson and the “Ladies” of Central Baptist Church for their kindness and hospitality during this difficult time. We truly appreciate each of you being the hands of feet of Jesus to our family. A special thanks to Susan Rahn, his ex-wife for continuing to be his friend and part of the care team. She has gone over and beyond in her care of Joe.
The Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at 5:00 pm at Central Baptist Church, 4010 Old Louisville Road, Garden City, GA 31408.
In lieu of flowers, please mail donations to the Effingham County Senior Citizen’s Center at 804 S. Laurel St, Springfield, GA 31329 (912-754-2138.) This was Joe’s home away from home.
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Mike Clark
I will miss Joe. He was a kind gentle man with a great sense of humor.
Rest easy old friend
Kimberly
Gonna miss ya Uncle Joe!! Sending prayers to my family. Love you all
Kimmie Ann Ashby Smith
Auggie & Joann Martin
Our condolences and prayers to Joes family . we haven’t seen each other in several years I(we) are sending prayers.
Auggie and Joann
Suzanne Darling
Joe, you were always a blessing to see at work
Such a sense of humor and dependable at your job. Will miss you, but my memories will live on.
Amanda McElhaney
Joe was and is an amazing person. Always welcomed me into his home and life with open arms. Always treated me as a daughter and never like an in-law. Truly blessed to have been apart of your family and life. My heart truly breaks for you and for Timmy. I just know you’re up there smiling and laughing like you always do. RIP Dad.
Kevin Poole
I am sorry for your loss. In the end it is always in God’s hands and I know he is in a better place. I have many fond memories over the years working with Joe at the CAT house, He could always be counted on to crack a joke or improve your day in some way. He will be missed. Rest in peace Bubba.
Amber Strickland
When I was at yancey, Joe would always come next door and bring me a pack of big red chewing gum. He was the sweetest and will be missed.
Keila Nichols and Family
My condolences for your loss. Sending hugs and prayers to the family. May God comfort you all and give you peace.
B J CLARK
Rest in peace Joe. I treasure our friendship. God bless Joe and the family.