Stanley “Coon” Townsend of Waleska, Georgia, passed away on January 29, 2026, at his residence surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 67. Coon was a devoted husband for 47 years, a proud father, grandfather, and the steady foundation of a family legacy. His dedication to service and community embraced generous support to Reinhardt University, including its Arts Around the Lake Project.
On April 5, 2018, Reinhardt dedicated the Stanley and Dottie Townsend Bridge in appreciation of their generosity and support for the Waleska community and Reinhardt University. The bridge, which spans Lake Mullenix offers students a picturesque and easier route to reach the Falany Performing Arts Center.
“He was a man who was very community oriented and he loved Reinhardt,” recalled Reinhardt Trustee Dr. Austin Flint. “He was involved in helping install the bridge and was one of the donors. He was such a good fellow and could do just about anything. For example, he would come to campus in the middle of the night to fix a busted water pipe and another time the dam at the lake was leaking. He brought his machines over, fixed it, and didn’t charge a penny.”
Townsend was CEO of Townsend Pipeline Construction Company, as well as a proud member and former master of Waleska Lodge #57, and a dedicated member of Yaarab Shrine and the Cherokee Shrine Club. Through hard work and perseverance, he built an empire in the dirt – earning the respect of his community not through words, but through action, integrity, grit, humility, and a heart as big as his work ethic. Though he never sought recognition, his impact was unmistakable, and his presence became a cornerstone of the community he served.
