Joel Benjamin Ethridge, 54, of Dawsonville, Georgia, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville, surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 27, 1971, in Tifton, Georgia, Joel was the beloved son of Mary Beth Bishop and the late Basil Ethridge.
A 1989 graduate of Tift County High School, Joel built a successful career as a self-employed contractor. Known for his dedication, integrity, and generous spirit, he touched the lives of many—both professionally and personally.
Over the past three years, Joel battled cancer with courage, faith, and an unwavering will to live. His strength and testimony during this time inspired countless others and served as a powerful reflection of the deep faith that guided his life.
Joel was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his loving wife, Sandi Moser Ethridge; his children, Ashlyn Ethridge of Valdosta, GA, and Jayden Ethridge of Dawsonville, GA; and his stepchildren, Nicole Stone, Dustin Griffin, Levi Griffin, and Jessica Griffin.
He is also survived by his mother, Mary Beth Bishop of Lawrenceville, GA; his sister, Denise Ethridge of Norcross, GA; and his brother and brother-in-law, Jerry Ethridge and Ray Powell of Lawrenceville, GA. He leaves behind a stepbrother, Jamie Tucker (Lisa) of Jonesboro, AR; a stepsister, Deidre Tucker of Sylvester, GA; his niece, Jozie Brady (Kyle); nephews, Dillon and Sage Ethridge; and a great-nephew, Beckham Basil Brady.
Joel is also survived by his mother- and father-in-law, Teresa and J. Michael Moore of Tifton, GA; his father- and mother-in-law, Robert and Adine Moser of Killeen, TX; brothers-in-law, Brett Moser of Tifton, GA, and Robert Moser of Boerne, TX; and many beloved relatives and friends.
In addition to his father, Joel was preceded in death by his second wife, Lana Harper Ethridge; his stepfather, Vaughn Tucker; his maternal grandparents, Percy Jewell and Elizabeth Hayman Bishop; and his paternal grandparents, Dack and Lillie Mae Day Ethridge.
Joel will be remembered for his heart of gold, his unwavering devotion to his loved ones, and his remarkable ability to offer strength and support to others—even in his most difficult moments. His legacy of kindness, resilience, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 18, at the Chapel of Bowen-Donaldson Home for Funerals in Tifton, Georgia. Visitation will take place from 2:30 p.m. until the time of service.
In lieu of flowers, contributions toward funeral expenses may be made to: Bowen-Donaldson Home for Funerals 420 Love Ave Tifton, GA 31794.
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timothy 4:7