Beloved Athens resident Jody Temple has passed away at age 50; was renowned BMX trickster

Mr. Joseph Martin “Jody” Temple Jr, 50, of Athens, GA, passed away Friday, August 15, 2025 at his home.

Born on January 14, 1975, in Elberton, GA, he was the son of Joseph Martin Temple Sr. and Pamela Denny Temple. Mr. Temple received his Bachelor’s Degree in English from the University of Georgia. His worked at The Globe restaurant in Athens, and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Hartwell. Jody was also a BMX trick rider where he competed and performed in several states.

Survivors include his parents: Joe & Pam Temple of Hartwell; sister: Pamela Ruth Turner (Paul N.) of Hartwell; one aunt: Nancy Clark of Hartwell; and one cousin: Bobby Clark (Julia) of Shepherdstown, WV.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, August 19, 2025 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell. Other times, the family will be at their respective homes.

A Memorial Service for Mr. Jody Temple will be held on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell with Dr. Stuart Lang officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church of Hartwell, 81 E. Howell St, Hartwell, GA 30643, or to the Hart County Humane Society, P.O. Box 1062, Hartwell, GA 30643.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is in charge of all arrangements.