John W. "Bill" Landrum II of Millen died March 5

John W. "Bill" Landrum II, 85, of Millen died on March 5, 2008.

Graveside services were held 11 a.m. Saturday, March 8, at The Millen Cemetery.

Born on May 25, 1922, Mr. Landrum was the son of Crawford Burgess Landrum and Rebie Parker Landrum who preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death were a brother, Crawford Burgess Landrum Jr., and a sister, Sarah Ward Larsen Mays.

A lifelong resident of Millen, he is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jacqueline "Jackie" Burton Landrum, originally of Smithville, Ga. They were married on August 7, 1949. Other survivors include two daughters and their husbands, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew J. (Lyn) Hill III of Athens and the Rev. and Mrs. Jerry (Sally) Counselman of Stone Mountain; and grandchildren, Mr. and Mrs. Charles B. (Liles Hill) Thompson of Atlanta, Mr. Andrew J. Hill IV of Augusta and Landrum A. Counselman, William J. Counselman and Graham P. Counselman all of Stone Mountain.

Mr. Landrum was primarily known for his exceptional creative abilities. His skills and talents were most often expressed through his floral designs during the more than 45 years that he and his wife, Jackie, operated The Charm Barn, Flowers and Fine Gifts, in Millen. Mr. Landrum's skills were sought by floral design schools in the southeast region. During his career, he served on the staffs of the South Carolina Florist Association Annual Design School and the Augusta Wholesale Design Schools. He also was a featured designer for the Georgia State Florists Association and the Southern Retail Florist Association Christmas Design School in Charlotte, N.C. Additionally, he partnered with his father in the operation of the Builders Supply Company of Millen. His work ethic was honesty, generosity, perfection and a willingness to set an example for others. His vast knowledge of local and World War II history, antiques, bonsai, architecture, gardening, cooking, art, animals and nature made him the "go to" person for many.

Mr. Landrum duly served his family, country, church and community during his lifetime.

A 1937 honor graduate of Millen High School, he attended Augusta College and the University of North Carolina (UNC.) He left UNC to serve in the United States Air Force during World War II. While in the Fifth Air Force, he served its Australian headquarters throughout the South Pacific and into Japan. During his service, he participated in the campaigns of Hollandian, Owi, Leyte, Mindoro, Luzon, Okinawa and the Ryukyus. He was promoted to Staff Sergeant Major and assigned as chief clerk of the ordnance section. His unit was involved in the Japan invasion preparation when the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima. Upon honorable discharge, he had been awarded the Good Conduct Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific ribbon with four stars and the Philippine Liberation Ribbon.

Mr. Landrum was a longtime member and ordained deacon of Millen Baptist Church. Over the years he served as Sunday school and young couples director; building and grounds committee member and chairman; centennial celebration chairman; and educational building committee member.

His contributions and activities within the Millen community included membership in the American Legion and Rotary Club member and president.

He also served as director of the Chamber of Commerce, chairman of the local American Red Cross Blood Program, co-chairman of the Dairy Festival and finance chairman for the YMCA of Georgia in Millen-Jenkins County.

He was instrumental in the creation of Youth, Inc., which provided the youth of Millen opportunities for chaperoned social activities and leadership development.

Mr. Landrum was named to the 1973 Who's Who in Georgia and was recognized as the Citizen of the Year in 1997 by the Jenkins County Chamber of Commerce.

Known to most as "Mr. Bill," he nourished and guided people of many generations over the years through his managed businesses and involved projects.

His love and devotion to his spouse and family were always apparent. His commitment to friends is best described by a fellow soldier in a 1943 journal: "In the service a fellow meets and forgets many friends, but I assure you with all sincerity that I'll never forget you as long as I live. You're a swell fellow and one of the best."

Pallbearers were his sons-in-law, grandsons, grandson-in-law, and friend, Jake Sasser of Millen.

Memorials can be made to the Jenkins County Hospital, Landrum Memorial Fund, 931 E. Winthrope Ave., Millen, GA 30442; Friends of the Millen Cemetery, c/o Steve Burke, P.O. Box 719, Millen, GA 30442; or Millen Baptist Church, P.O. Box 827, Millen, GA 30442.