free html hit counter
Atlanta Journal Constitution Obits Today

Hey there, curious mind! Ever found yourself scrolling through the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's obituaries, not out of morbid fascination, but because, let's face it, they're a goldmine of quirky stories? Today, we're diving in, no lifejacket needed. Let's make death a little less grim and a lot more grin-inducing.

Meet the Characters

First up, we've got Eugene 'Gene' McGarity, a man who lived life on his own terms. Gene was a self-proclaimed 'professional' Elvis impersonator. Now, that's a career choice that deserves a standing ovation. He wasn't just any Elvis, folks. Gene was the King of impersonators, performing at weddings, funerals, and even a few bar mitzvahs. Talk about a man who knew how to work a room, even if it was filled with bagels and lox.

Next, we've got Mildred 'Millie' Hargrove, a woman who loved her cats so much, she wanted to make sure they had a forever home, even after she was gone. Millie left her entire estate to her feline friends, with a stipulation that they never be separated. Now, that's a purr-fect example of love lasting nine lives.

Obits: The Original Reality TV

Think obituaries are just a list of names and dates? Think again! They're like the original reality TV, filled with drama, comedy, and sometimes, a dash of mystery. Take James 'Jimmy' Lee, for instance. Jimmy's obit reads like a whodunit. He was found dead in his home, but the cause of death? 'Undetermined.' Now, that's a cliffhanger that would make even the most jaded detective scratch their head.

The Atlanta-Journal Constitution Covers Founder John Bey’s UpcomingThe Atlanta-Journal Constitution Covers Founder John Bey’s Upcoming

And who could forget Robert 'Bob' McNair, the man who loved his job so much, he wanted to be buried in his uniform. Bob was a lifelong employee of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, starting as a copy boy and working his way up to advertising director. Talk about dedication - even in death, Bob was still on the job, making sure his obituary was printed in his favorite newspaper.

Obits: The Original Social Media

In a world where social media rules, it's easy to forget that obituaries were the original way to share life stories, celebrate achievements, and express grief. They're a public forum where families can share their loved ones' quirks, accomplishments, and even their sense of humor. Take Betty Jean Williams, for example. Her family ended her obituary with a quote from her: 'I told you I was sick.' Now that's a mic drop moment that would make even the most seasoned Twitter user chuckle.

Atlanta becomes largest U.S. metro without a printed daily newspaper asAtlanta becomes largest U.S. metro without a printed daily newspaper as

Why Obits Matter

So, why do we love obituaries? Because they remind us that everyone has a story. They're a testament to the fact that we're all unique, all quirky, all human. They make us laugh, they make us think, and sometimes, they even make us cry. But most of all, they remind us that life is short, so let's make it a good one. Like Gene McGarity, let's be the best Elvis we can be. Like Millie Hargrove, let's love fiercely. And like Bob McNair, let's do what we love, every single day.

So, next time you're scrolling through the AJC's obituaries, remember, you're not being morbid, you're being human. You're celebrating lives well-lived, quirks and all. And isn't that something worth smiling about?