Kildare – Benjamin Andrew Morel, 88, passed away October 22, 2020 at Ogeechee Hospice.

The Effingham County native was a lifetime member of Mizpah United Methodist Church, a member of the Georgia National Guard, Barber Shop Quartet, and was Santa Claus for 65 years. He was a General Contractor, an Auctioneer, longtime bus driver for Effingham County Board of Education, and member of the Bus Driver's Association.

He was preceded in death by his parents, T.W. and Carymell Edwards Morel; his son, Andy Morel; his wife, Madeline Rosa Puche; siblings, Winifred Joyce Morel, Charles W. Morel, Janice Porter and Betty Sanderlin.

He is survived by his son, Benjamin Morel (Sherri); daughter, Donna Morel; sister, Sandra Ewen; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be 2p.m. Sunday, January 3, 2021 at Mizpah United Methodist Church with Pastor Jose Velasquez officiating.