Douglas Neal Varner

Douglas Neal Varner, age 66, passed away at his family home on Varner Road, also the homeplace of his father and grandfather, in the Bold Spring Community of Franklin County on Sunday, October 1, 2023 following an extended illness.  Mr. Varner was born in Commerce, GA on December 23, 1956 to the late W.T. and Jewell Varner.

Doug is survived by his wife of 45 years, Renee Simmons Varner; three children-Jessica Varner of Cumming, Melanie and Damon Kepes of Carnesville, and Brandon and Jennifer Varner of Carnesville; three granddaughters-Ella, Eva, and Lydia of Cumming; four siblings-Stan and Claudine Varner of Commerce, Sharon and Dave Tonge of Commerce, Kathy Varner of Duluth, and Dan Varner of Commerce, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Known affectionately as “Oldie” to his three granddaughters, Doug was a carpenter, farmer, and loving father and grandfather who lived a life of character, kindness, and strength.  He was also a lifelong sports fan and outdoorsman.

He was a graduate of Banks County High School in 1974, where he played baseball, basketball, and football.  He continued to enjoy sports, especially UGA football and the Atlanta Braves.

Doug was a skilled carpenter for over 20 years and continued his career as a Jackson County Correctional Officer supervising a mobile construction crew for 22 years.  Doug willingly used his carpentry skills to help others.

Mr. Varner was a lifelong member of Bold Spring United Methodist Church.  He served on the maintenance committee and as an usher for many years.

His favorite times were spent outdoors hunting and fishing and at the many activities of his children and grandchildren.  His resilient toughness in the life he lived was evident in the family he raised as a loving husband and father in the house he built for them.

The family will receive friends from 5 pm-8 pm, Tuesday, October 3, 2023 at Little-Ward Funeral Home in Commerce.

Funeral services will be held at 2:30 pm, Wednesday, October 4, 2023 at Bold Spring United Methodist Church with Reverend Ross Wheeler and The Rev. Dr. Dave Tonge officiating.  Burial will follow in the Bold Spring United Methodist Church Cemetery.

Flowers are accepted or donations to your local Special Olympics in honor of Doug’s love of athletics and his children and grandchildren.

Little-Ward Funeral Home, Commerce is in charge of arrangements.