James Melvin Cordell

James Melvin Cordell, of Covington, passed away Sunday, April 23, 2023, at the age of 87. Born and raised in Porterdale, Mr. Cordell was a proud patriot that served in the United States Air Force as a trained machinist working on jets from 1954 – 1957 and obtaining the rank of A1C. His experiences in the military led to him carving out a career with Delta Air Lines for 32 years. Mr. Cordell resided in Riverdale for 35 years and raised his three children there. He was heavily involved in the Riverdale community serving as a Scoutmaster, baseball coach at the recreation center, and member of Riverdale First United Methodist Church. Additionally, Mr. Cordell was a founding member of the volunteer fire department in Riverdale. In 1988, he moved to Covington and continued his philanthropic efforts by helping Samaritan’s Purse with their Operation Christmas Child Shoebox ministry. Mr. Cordell was also a member of Julia A. Porter United Methodist Church, Covington Elk’s Lodge, and Veterans of Foreign Wars - Covington post. In his spare time, he enjoyed repairing and building anything he could get his hands on. Mr. Cordell was preceded in death by his parents, John C. and Lillian Cordell; sisters, Betty Edwards, Jean Shuford; brothers, John Lewis “Rookie” Cordell, Alfred Cordell.

He is survived by his daughters, Sandralyn Williams (Steve), Kristy Cannon (Mike); son, Randy Cordell (Mary); grandchildren, Joseph Cordell, Sidney Beth Williams, Jami Lyn Latham; great-grandchildren, Abram Latham, Asa James Latham, Avery Jane Albertson; former wife and mother of his children, Shirley Moore Cordell; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Graveside Service for Mr. Cordell will be held Wednesday, April 26, 2023, 3:00 P.M., at Lawnwood Memorial Park, 1111 Access Road, in Covington, with Mr. Bill Norton officiating. Friends are invited to visit with the family at Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home, 1215 Access Road, in Covington, prior to his service from 1:00 – 2:45 P.M. Flowers are accepted, or in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association Georgia Chapter, 41 Perimeter Center East, Suite 550, Atlanta, Georgia 30346.