Felton Faniel

Felton Faniel, affectionately known as Cecil to most, was born on March 16, 1941, in Buena Vista, Georgia to the late John and Maggie Faniel. He was the youngest of ten children born to this union. He was preceded in death by his siblings: sisters Estella Jones, Hazel Faniel, Mary Lee Jones, and Clara Bell Mott; and brothers "Unc" Faniel, John L. Faniel, Frankie Lee Faniel, William C. Faniel, and Rev Joseph D. Faniel.

Cecil attended schools in the Marion County School System of Buena Vista, Georgia. He later relocated to Melbourne, Florida, where he met and married his wife and life partner, Juanita James.

As a young man in Georgia, he began his working career in a meatpacking factory. After moving to Florida, he worked in the hospitality industry. He went on to become one of the first African American Auxiliary police officers in the city of Melbourne - an achievement that reflected his commitment to service and community.

Cecil later discovered his passion for construction, developing exceptional skills in the trade. Guided by faith and determination, he established his own successful construction company. Many structures and buildings still standing in the community are lasting testaments to his craftsmanship and hard work.

Never one to sit idle, even in retirement, Cecil transitioned to lawn maintenance work. He was often seen caring for the grounds of Scott Chapel United Methodist Church, where he was a member for 50 years.

Cecil leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife, Juanita Faniel; five children: De'Edra(Rev. Dale) Haynes, Felton C.(Sylvia) Faniel, Alice Faniel, Deldra Faniel, and Ahmad Faniel; seven grandchildren; Mareshah (Dominique) Dickens, Matthew (Olivia) Haynes, Michael Haynes, Maaziah Haynes, Christopher Faniel, Marcus Faniel, and Lauren Faniel; nine great-grandchildren; Aubrey Haynes, Destin Dickens, Audrielle Haynes, Olive Dickens, Aylauni Haynes, Ayden Haynes, Jaylen Faniel, Ashton Haynes, and Briella Faniel: brother-in-law; Lucius (Myrtle) Evans; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

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