Sidney L. Townsend, age 78, of Demorest, passed away on January 12, 2015 at Northeast Georgia Medical Center. Born on January 5, 1937, in Hall County, he was a son of the late Sidney Lanier and Elizabeth Patterson Townsend. Mr. Townsend was a former security guard who enjoyed nature and collecting antique guns and knives. Survivors include daughters, Tammy, Toni and Titania Townsend all of Lawrenceville; sister and brother-in-law, Jean and Jerry Mote of Demorest; brothers and sisters-in-law, Charles “Mutt” and Phyllis Townsend of Gainesville and Bob and Joyce Townsend of Demorest; granddaughter, Stacia. Graveside services are 2 pm Thursday, January 15, 2015 at Bethel Temple Congregational Holiness Church Cemetery with Rev. Ronald Mote officiating. The family will receive friends from 1 until 1:40 pm prior to the service hour on Thursday at the funeral home. An online guest register is available and may be viewed at www.mcgaheegriffinandstewart.com. McGahee-Griffin & Stewart Funeral Home of Cornelia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.