Harold “Cozell” McAfee was born August 21, 1926 in Mabank, Texas to Henry and Alice McAfee and passed away in Tyler, Texas on September 5, 2014 at the age of 88.
Cozell was a member of Central Baptist Church of Mabank where in the past he served as Music Director for a number of years. He was a long-time supporter of the Mabank community. He served as Mayor, was a member of the Mabank City Council for over 25 years, member of the Volunteer Fire Department for numerous years and was a current member of the Mabank Lions Club. He contributed to bringing music variety shows to the area for fundraising efforts. He recently received his 65 year service pin from the Roddy Chapter of the Masonic Lodge and was a member of the Mabank Order of the Eastern Star for over 60 years. He proudly served his country in World War II with the United States Army.
Cozell worked as Service Parts Manager at Tri-County Ford for 20 plus years. In 1982, he established McAfee Insurance Agency where he spent every day until his death.
Harold “Cozell” McAfee is preceded in death by his parents, one sister Alene Gibbs, one brother Kenneth McAfee and one granddaughter Kaylee Mullins.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Stella Gregory McAfee and three children. Two daughters, Diane Mixon and husband, Royce of Eustace; Deedra Williams and husband, Stan of Mabank; one son, Don McAfee and wife, Denise of Eustace. He was PawPaw to Greg Featherston of Ft. Worth, Lindsey Minyard and husband, Lucas of Mabank, and Dane and Drake McAfee of Eustace and great grand PawPaw to Lavery Brignac and Linden Minyard of Mabank.
Serving as Pallbearers were Tim Johnson, Tyson Johnson, Wayne Anthony, Gary Flowers, Todd Gregory and Ronnie Featherston. Honorary Pallbearers were Bill McKee, Midge Odom, Bobbie Gene Autry, Bob Styker, David Risner, Dick Bramblitt, Jack Gregory, Joe Gregory, Cleve Howell, Gerald Cottrell and J.R. “Son” Scott.
Cozell was a wonderful role-model, loving husband, father, PawPaw and friend to many. He will be greatly missed.
In honor of Cozell memorials may be made to The Hospice of East Texas Foundation, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler, Texas 75701.