Joel Ronnie Rawls, of Florala, passed away on December 28, 2025, at the age of 81. He was born on April 7, 1944, to E. L. Rawls and Lora Josey Rawls.

Ronnie proudly served his country in the United States Army, fulfilling his duty with honor. Following his military service, he devoted 41 years of dedicated employment to Southeast Telephone Company in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Throughout his career, Ronnie was well respected and admired by his coworkers for his integrity, tireless work ethic, and selfless willingness to work at any hour whenever he was needed.

After retiring from Southeast Telephone Company, Ronnie returned home to Florala, Alabama, where he remained deeply connected to the community he loved.

Ronnie was a Master Mason and Shriner, a role he held with great pride and dedication. He served in all chairs at Fidelity Lodge No. 685 in Florala and Alpha Lodge No. 172 in Fort Walton Beach and was honored to serve as Worshipful Master ten times, the most ever in Fidelity Lodge No 685 in Florala. Ronnie believed deeply in the mission of the Masonic fraternity and lived it out through faithful service, leadership, and community involvement. He was always willing to roll up his sleeves—especially during lodge fundraisers, including the annual boiled peanut sales—giving generously of his time in support of the Lodge and its mission to serve others.

Outside of his work and service, Ronnie had a lifelong passion for drag racing and was an avid collector of classic cars. He also enjoyed camping, particularly traveling with his camper, where he found peace and enjoyment in the outdoors.

Ronnie was a man who understood the value of hard work. Often described by old-timers as a "man's man," he lived his life with honesty, dependability, and quiet strength. His legacy is one of integrity, brotherhood, and selfless service to both his profession and his community.

Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, E. L. Rawls and Lora Josey Rawls; his son, Steven Rawls; and his sisters, Shirley Miller and Barbara Thames.

He is survived by his daughter, Kathy Adams, and her husband, Brad, his granddaughter, Hannah Bloodworth, and her husband, Andrew. He is also survived by Carolyn Easley the love of his life who shared 23 wonderful years with him.

Funeral services for Ronnie Rawls will be 2PM Thursday January 1, 2026 at Evans Funeral Home. Visitation will be 1 hour before services. Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery.

Please join us in remembering Joel Ronnie Rawls by visiting our Memorial at evansfuneralhomeal.com. Through this site we invite you to share your thoughts and fond memories with our family.