Cecil Shannon Atchley, Jr.

Cecil Shannon Atchley, Jr., 81, of Aiken, SC, passed away Sunday, August 24, 2025.

Cecil grew up in Forest City, NC, the son of the late Cecil Shannon Atchley, Sr and Alda Grayson Atchley.

After graduating from Cool Springs High School, he attended Garner-Web University and East Tennessee State University.

Cecil proudly served his country in the United States Army and the National Guard Reserve. He then worked for over 30 years in the South Carolina school system. Cecil was a member of Aiken First Baptist Church, Aiken, SC.

Cecil embodied a sense of duty and honor and love for his God, family, and country that would define his character throughout his life. His devotion to teaching and nurturing young hearts and helping others extended to his involvement in various organizations in and around Aiken.

Cecil found happiness spending time with his family and friends. He loved people, helping others, joking, and having fun.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carolyn Guss Atchley.

Cecil is survived by one daughter, Shannon K. Allen of Martinez, GA; a grandson, Dennis (Havin) Truitt Atchley, two great grandchildren, Raina Reigh Atchley and Tyrus Frashuer Atchley; and a granddaughter Savannah Jade Swint; one sister, Teresa Hooper (Tommy) of Greenville, SC and one brother, Ronald Atchley (Teresa) of Lincolnton, NC.

A wonderful son, husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, Cecil leaves behind a legacy of love, faith and service that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

A memorial service celebrating the life of Cecil and Carolyn will be held at 11:00 AM Friday September 5, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Aiken 120 Chesterfield St N, Aiken, SC 29801, with the Reverend Dr. John Carroll officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 – 11:00 AM in the church parlor. Military honors will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the America’s Warrior Partnership (www.americaswarriorpartnership.org).

SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC. 924 HAYNE AVE, AIKEN, SC