Obituaries

On the morning of April 26, 2023, the spirit of Lynn Strickland was released from her failing body for its journey to the Eternal Home which was prepared for her by the Christ she loved all her life. She was the first daughter of Arthur and Myrle Sparks of Portal, Georgia, was a 1965 graduate of Portal High School, and a 1969 graduate of Asbury College in Wilmore, Kentucky.  She married Bill Strickland in 1970, and they moved across South Georgia as a clergy couple serving Christ and the United...

On Thursday, April 20, 2023, a humble man of deep faith, The Reverend William Michael Huling, age 71, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family. Born in Washington, D. C, he grew up in Macon, Georgia. Graduating from Willingham High School in Macon, he continued his education graduating from the University of Georgia with a B. S. in Chemistry and a MDiv from Emory University.  An avid UGA fan, he loved watching and participating in all sports. His love of competition was an innate...

Reverend J. Don Proctor, 93, of Saint Simons Island, departed this life to be with his Savior Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at his residence surrounded by his family. Funeral Services will be conducted at 2 pm, on Saturday, April 22nd, 2023 at Saint Simons United Methodist Church. The Reverends Tom Jones, Tom Dent and Jim McIlrath are officiating. Interment will follow at Taylors United Methodist Church Cemetery with Drew Osika, Cory Proctor, Garth Walton, Richard Soper, Chandler Giedl and Mike ...

On March 28, 2023, the Reverend John Bagwell of Macon, Georgia died at the age of 95 years. Rev. Bagwell is survived by three children, Timothy John Bagwell (Susan) of Macon, Georgia; William Key Bagwell (Sue) of St. Simons Island, Georgia; and Nancy Bagwell Martin (Glenn) of Lawrenceville, Georgia. Grandchildren are John H. Bagwell (Greta), Emily Bagwell (Erin), Margaret Frazier (Caleb), Sarah Glass (Will), Rachel Poli (Gabby), and Janell Martin. Great grandchildren are Timothy Bagwell, ...

Margaret Elizabeth Smith Carruth, age 101 years, died on March 7, 2023.  She was born on November 4, 1921, in Decatur County, Georgia to the late John Orson Smith and Gladys Willis Smith.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, the Reverend Edward H. Carruth, her sister, Mary Starr, and her son-in-law, Kenny Goode.   Mrs. Carruth was a graduate of Bainbridge High School.  She received a BA degree, magna cum laude, from Wesleyan College in 1942.  Mrs. Carruth earned...

Ruth Khaw, a resident of Middletown Township, passed away at Crozer-Chester Medical Center on February 21, 2023.  She was 73 years old. Ruth will be deeply missed by her family and friends everywhere.    Ruth was born and raised in Yangon, Myanmar. She was a graduate of Rangoon Arts and Science University where she obtained a BS in Chemistry.  She was a lifelong learner and global citizen living in Taipei, L.A., Chicago and Portland.  She obtained her BS in Biology from Evergreen State College ...

Nona Mae Hodges Foster, age 95, of Statesboro died Saturday, February 18, 2023, at Ogeechee Area Hospice Inpatient Facility, of natural causes.  A native of Savannah, she was born Oct. 18, 1927, to William Asburn and Naomi Frances Smith  Hodges of Statesboro. She was reared on the family farm across the road from New Hope United Methodist Church, where her ancestors had been members for more than 150 years, she became a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church. A 1944 graduate of ...

Brenda France, wife of Jesse France (Sikes Chapel – Northeast District), passed away Friday, February 3, 2023.  She was predeceased by her father Freddie Aldrich; her son Joseph France; her step-mother Betty Aldrich; and her grandchildren, Montecella, Melissa, Heather and Danny. She is survived by: her husband Jesse W. France; her children, Sherry, Steven, Robin Martin, Jack, Mita Martin and Jason Martin; her son-in-law Derrick Arthur; her sister Wanda Callaway; her step-sister Glenda Hewett; ...

Day Watson, widow of Rev. Hamp Watson, Jr., passed away Saturday, January 28, 2023. The funeral service will be Saturday, February 4, 2023, at 1 pm at H.M Patterson and Son Funeral Home (4550 Peachtree Road, NE, Atlanta, GA 30319).  

Grady Estes Vance 74, went home to be with his Lord on January 24, 2023. He was born in Atlanta, GA on January 12, 1949 to the late George and Kathleen Vance. Grady served proudly in the United States Marine Corp for 6 years. He was a Viet Nam Veteran and a true patriot who loved God and country. He graduated from Emory University with a Masters in Divinity and served in The United Methodist Church for 30 years. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and enjoyed playing golf and bowling. Grady had a ...

Mrs. Cora Anthony Herndon, age 92, of Brunswick, Georgia passed away on Thursday, December 15, 2022. Cora was born in Ripley, TN. She was the widow of Rev. George Herndon. A memorial service was held December 30, 2022, at 1 pm at College Place UMC (3890 Altama Avenue, Brunswick, GA 31520).   

Rev. Wayne MacDonald, retired clergy from the South Central District, passed away December 2, 2022, after a long illness. A memorial service will be planned at a later date.  

Sylvia Brantley Kersey, MSN, retired pastor, nursing administrator, and nursing faculty, fan of mass quantities of coffee, children and animals and true, loving husband, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother died on Sunday, November 13, 2022. She loved her family, her community, and every dog that she ever met. Sylvia was born on July 29, 1940, in Jacksonville, Florida. Soon afterward her mother and father moved to Dublin, Georgia where she grew up and graduated from Dublin High School in ...

Naomi Lorene Reed Ferris, 94 of Waycross and widow of Rev. Orville Ferris, passed away Thursday night (October 20, 2022) at Baptist Village in Waycross after an extended illness.    Born in Kalkaska, MI her parents were Ernest Reed and Bernice Beaver Reed. She is also preceded in death by her first husband, Billy Winfred Sanders; her second husband, Orville Leroy Ferris; 2 great grandsons; and several brothers and sisters.   Naomi was a pastor wife and a member of Akin United Methodist Church. ...

Reverend George King, 93, of Macon, GA, passed away Sunday, November 6, 2022.  A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 12, 2022, 3:00 p.m. at Wesley Glen Ministries Chapel with the Reverend John Irwin officiating.  A reception will follow the service in the chapel.  Inurnment will be private at Bethel Methodist Church Cemetery, Knoxville, Georgia.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wesley Glen Ministries, Inc., 4580 N. Mumford Rd., Macon, GA 31210. Son of the ...

Mrs. Rosalie Gaye Rentz, age 71, passed away on 30th April 2022 at home in Ngarimu Bay on the Thames Coast of New Zealand, surrounded by family.  On 7th May a service to celebrate her life was held at the St James Church of Thames Union Parish (Methodist-Presbyterian), followed by a private cremation.     Rosalie graduated from Waikato University with a Bachelor of Education degree, and taught primary school briefly, then pursued studies at the Christian Life Bible College (AOG) in Wellington ...

Rev. Dr. Robert L. “Bob” Herrington, age 93, died Tuesday, September 20, 2022, in Bryant Nursing Center. Funeral services will be held Friday, September 23, 2022, at 3:00 P.M. in the Cochran First United Methodist Church. Burial will be private in Macon Memorial Park in Macon. Rev. Herrington, born in Terrell County, had lived in Cochran since 1984. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Grace Davis Herrington. He was a graduate of Valdosta State and received his doctorate in divinity...

Rev. Frank H. Harris Jr., 91, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, September 26, 2022. A Celebration of his Life will be held on Wednesday, September 28, 2022 at Forest Hills Church at 3:00 p.m. with the Dr. Baxter Hurley and Rev. Doug Walker officiating. The family will greet friends from 1:30 p.m. to service time at the church. Burial will be in Macon Memorial Park Cemetery. Donations may be made to Forest Hills Church, 1217 Forest Hills Road, Macon, GA 31210 or donor’s favorite ...

A memorial service for the Rev. Jimmy Lee Gilbert of Cordele will be held Wednesday, September 21, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Rainey Family Funeral Services. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 1:00 p.m. Jimmy passed away peacefully Monday, September 19, 2022 at his residence. He was born in Cordele and was the son of the late Oscar S. Gilbert and Betsy Vernette Pate Gilbert Whiddon. He was a retired Methodist minister. Jimmy was a 1966 graduate of Crisp ...

John Monroe Clements, age 86, passed away Saturday, September 17, 2022, at Lumber City Nursing Home surrounded by his loving family. He was born and raised in Wheeler County, one of three children on an expansive farm outside of McRae. As a young person, he loved reading books, talking about politics, working hard in school, and running track. As a teenager, he attended Indian Springs Camp Meeting and surrendered to Jesus – a decision that changed his heart and life forever. This encounter led ...

Dr. Robert F. (Bob) Williams, Jr., age 80, of Dublin, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, September 11, 2022, surrounded by his loving family.   Services will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, September 15, 2022, at Dublin First United Methodist Church. Burial will follow at Piney Mount United Methodist Church Cemetery in Washington County.  Rev. Keith Goodlett and Mr. Mark Eden will officiate.   The family will receive friends on Thursday from 1:00 PM until the service hour at the...

Charles Douglas "Buddy" Coss was born November 27, 1941 in Nashville, Tennessee to the late Charles A. and Mary Elizabeth (Baird) Coss.  Buddy passed away August 31, 2022 at the age of 80 in his home in Edison, Georgia under hospice care.   Buddy attended school in Nashville, Tennessee and graduated from Central High School.  He also attended Lipscomb University.  Buddy attended Emory Course of Study in Atlanta and Georgia Pastor's School of Epworth by the Sea, St. Simons Island, Georgia.   In ...

Rev. Roy Lee Dial III, 78, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, August 28, 2022, after an extended illness. Services will be held on Wednesday, August 31, 2022, in the sanctuary of Fort Valley United Methodist Church, 301 West Church Street in Fort Valley, with visitation beginning at 12:30 PM followed by funeral services at 2:00 PM. Rev. Herb Flanders will officiate. Rev. Dial will be laid to rest in Oaklawn Cemetery.   Born in Key West, Florida, to the late Roy Lee Dial Jr. and Laura ...

Mrs. Jacqueline Johnson Varnell passed away on August 9th, 2022 at Ogeechee Area Hospice surrounded by loved ones after a 13-year battle with kidney cancer.  Jackie graduated from Statesboro High School with Honors in 1966 and pursued a lifelong, innovative, and award-winning career in Math education. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Georgia Southern College in 1970. She earned a Master's Degree with Honors from West Georgia College in 1977, and a Specialist Degree with Honors from Valdosta ...

Mr. Charles Gilbert “Gil” Tripp, age 88, of Americus, passed away Saturday, July 16, 2022, at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center. Graveside services were held Monday, July 18, 2022, at Oak Grove Cemetery. Rev. Rex Odom and Rev. Al Lewis officiated the service. Charles Gilbert Tripp was born October 25, 1933, in Sumter County. He was the son of the late Charles Russell Tripp and the late Rosa Lee Bass Tripp. As a youth, he felt the Dooly Campground in Vienna, Ga. was his second home. This is where he ...

Rev. James Martin Ford, 79, of Hickory, passed away on Thursday, June 9, 2022, at Catawba Valley Assisted Living at Rock Barn. He was born January 27, 1943, in Catawba County to the late Forest Blake Ford and Henrietta Edwards Ford. James was a United States Army veteran and a Methodist minister. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Bill Mitchem. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 57 years, Brenda Young Ford of Conover; stepson James ...

Well known Americus citizen Rev. Bill Dupree died on June 4, 2022, at age 89. Funeral services were held Saturday, June 11, at the First United Methodist Church of Americus. Rev. Daryl Brown officiated. Interment followed in Oak Grove Cemetery. He was born in 1932 in the Concord community of Sumter County to Charlie and Lula Belle (Weaver) Dupree. Bill graduated from Concord School, Americus High School, and Georgia Southwestern College when it was a Junior College where Dr. Henry King ...

The Rev. Vergil Lacy (V.L.) Daughtery Jr. passed away peacefully at his home after a short illness on June 8, 2022, surrounded by family. He was born in Adel, GA, on January 11, 1934, where he was a graduate of the public schools of Cook County and played fullback on the Cook High School 1949 state championship football team. He was in the last graduating class from the junior college Emory at Valdosta, where he earned an Associate of Arts with honors. He also earned a bachelor’s degree with ...

Margaret Rosetta (Rose) King was born on July 6, 1944, in Montgomery, Alabama. At two years of age, with her parents, Samuel and Pauline Hayden, she moved to Nashville, Tennessee where her faith was nurtured by Clark Memorial United Methodist Church. She received a BS degree in psychology from Bennett College in 1966 and completed course work towards the MS degree in psychology at Howard University. After teaching in New York, she returned to Nashville where she worked in her mother’s beauty ...

The Reverend Grady Watson Mills II of Savannah, Georgia passed away on March 28, 2022, at St. Joseph’s Hospital. He was born in Millen, Georgia on June 17, 1943, to Ellis Willard Mills SR. and Myrtle Jenkins Mills. Raised in Waynesboro Georgia, he graduated from Waynesboro High school in 1961. While in high school Grady was the drum major for the marching band. With such creativity and talent, he excelled at twirling the fire Baton enjoyed dancing and parades. After high school, Grady ...

Lt. Col. William D. Clark, 69, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 11, 2022, at St. Joseph's Hospital, surrounded by his loving family to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Don was born in Biloxi, Mississippi, the eldest son of Billy and Eva Clark. He was raised and educated in Jackson, Ohio and later attended Ohio University. He went on to receive his Masters in both Education and Theology, as well as a Doctorate in Ministry. In 1974, Don married the love of his life, the former ...

Rev. Beaufort G. Roberts, Sr., 89, entered eternal rest Saturday, March 19, 2022. Rev. Roberts leaves to cherish his memories a loving wife, Mrs. Eunice Geraldine Williams Roberts; son Marcus Horace Roberts; daughters Pastor Angela Roberts Jones, Marcella Roberts Charles (Boisy); sisters Jeanette Moie, Beverly Hamilton; eight grandchildren; and eight great- grandchildren. A funeral service was held Saturday, March 26, 2022, at St. Andrews United Methodist Church in Sylvania. Interment followed...

Rev. Robert Wayne Poston, 76, passed away March 28, 2022, at his residence. The Tennessee native was a Congregational Methodist Pastor serving in Louisiana, Texas, and Georgia before joining the South Georgia United Methodist Conference in the 70s and retired pastoring from Black Creek United Methodist Church in Newington. Robert loved music, genealogy, and was a loyal Tennessee Volunteers fan. Above all else he loved his family, spoiling his children and grandchildren. He was preceded in ...

In loving memory of Reverend Wallace Grable Page, Jr., who passed away Tuesday March 22, 2022, at his home in Beaufort, South Carolina. A memorial service was held Sunday March 27 at Carteret Street United Methodist Church in Beaufort, South Carolina. Reverend Grable Page served as a minister to several churches for 57 years in the South Georgia Conference of The United Methodist Church. Reverend Page touched many lives and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He was known for giving ...

Dr. Grover Bell, 90, of Savannah, passed away on Thursday, March 3, 2022. Grover was born in Sardis, Ga. on March 9, 1928. While at Georgia Teacher’s College, he met his beloved “Deanie.” Together they raised five children and served almost 30 churches of the South Georgia United Methodist Conference. A graduate of Emory School of Divinity, beginning in 1953 until his retirement in June 2020, “Brother Grover” served and shepherded as a much-loved minister. His other passions were gardening and ...

James P. Walker, 82, of Tifton, passed away Friday, February 25, 2022, at his residence. His funeral service was held Sunday, February 27, 2022, in the Chapel of Bowen-Donaldson Home for Funerals with Enoch Hendry officiating. Mr. Walker will be laid to rest at a later date. Honorary pallbearers were the Little River Wood Turners. Born August 24, 1939, in Tifton, Mr. Walker was the son of the late James Calvin Walker and Mildred Branch Walker. He received his Master’s Degree in Divinity from ...

Rev. Dr. Remer Logan “Brad” Brady, III passed away in his home February 7, 2022. Brad was born Nov. 16, 1953, in Statesboro, GA. He graduated from the former Armstrong State College, now Georgia Southern University. He received a Master of Divinity from Candler School of Theology at Emory University in 1984 and his Doctor of Ministry from McCormick Theological Seminary in 1994. He was preceded in death by his parents, Remer Logan Brady, Jr. and Annie Nell Bowen Brady. He is survived by his ...

Reverend Elvin E. East, Jr., age 73, of Lakeland, Georgia, passed away Wednesday, February 2, 2022, at South Georgia Medical Center, Lanier Campus, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Elvin was born July 25, 1948, in Columbus, Ga. to the late Margie Henson Johnson and Elvin E. East, Sr. Elvin and has served as pastor with United Methodist Churches for more than 40 years and was currently serving as pastor to both Springhead United Methodist Church and Kirkland United Methodist ...

Rev. Fred Mosley Foster, 87, of Quitman, passed away on Friday, February 4, 2022, at Fellowship Home. He was born in Waynesboro, Ga. on September 3, 1934, to the late Johnny and Zulie Holland Foster. He graduated from Girard High School in Burke County, Ga. and went on to Asbury College in Wilmore, Ky., and then to Candler School of Theology at Emory University in Atlanta. Rev. Foster enjoyed cooking, fishing, and gardening. He enjoyed traveling and also catered and owned Fred’s BBQ & ...

The Rev. Fred Lemore Maddox, 88 years old, passed away at East Georgia Regional Medical Center, Statesboro, Georgia, on Tuesday, February 8, 2022. Brother Fred, as he was fondly called, was born in Cordele, Georgia, Crisp County, to the late John Alexander Maddox and Nannie Sue (Moreland) Maddox. The Rev. Fred Maddox is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Patricia Ann (Brooks) Maddox; three children, Laneah June Maddox of Warner Robins, Ga.; Lacrecia Ann Maddox of Alexandria, Va.; Fred ...

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Kirk Loyless (Donalsonville, Georgia), born in Anniston, Alabama, who passed away on January 25, 2022, at the age of 71, leaving to mourn family and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Elliott Loyless and Sue Loyless. He is survived by: his friend Charles Dennis; his wife, Martha; his children, Deborah Tuttle (Kevin), Carrie Chittom (John), Cathy Shepan, Connie Tallman (AJ) and John Oliver (Takako); his grandchildren, John Walker ...

Sally Lou Strickland, age 91, of Stockbridge, Georgia, passed away on Monday, December 27, 2021. She was born in Cochran, Georgia on June 9, 1930, to the late Alonzo and Ruth Powell. Sally was also preceded in death by her husband, Lewis Wallace Strickland; brothers Carlton and Charles Powell; and sisters Dolly Hart, Alice Powell, and Elvenia Powell. She was always a “Mom” and very dedicated to her family. She was very crafty, loved to cook, and she was a top producer for Tupperware. Sally was...

Rev. Thomas Jackson (Jack) McCollough, Jr., 94, a native of Woodbine, Ga., passed away Friday, December 31, 2021, at his home at Wesley-Woods of Newnan. He was born May 15, 1927, in Woodbine to the late Thomas Jackson McCollough, Sr. and Hilda Wright McCollough. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Virginia Jones McCollough. Rev. McCollough attended Young Harris College before receiving a Bachelor’s degree from Emory University and Masters of Divinity ...

Carol Sizemore, age 70 of Rochelle, passed away Monday, December 20, 2021, in the Houston Medical Center. A Celebration of Life Service was held Monday, December 27 in the Pitts United Methodist Church. Rev. Craig Hutto officiated. Mrs. Sizemore was born on August 7, 1951, in Waycross, Ga. She was the daughter of the late James A. G. Whitley, Jr. and Mary Ruth Hargreaves Whitley. She was a homemaker and member of the Rochelle United Methodist Church and the Administrative Council. She was a ...

After a life of deep faith, love, and service, Carole Moore Mitchell passed peacefully into the presence of her Lord on Dec. 13, 2021, 12 days past her 82nd birthday. She was a faithful member of the St. Mark United Methodist Church in Columbus, Ga. at the time of her death. She had previously been active in many different United Methodist churches through the years, having been the wife of a United Methodist pastor. She was an inspiration and mentor to many persons through the years. She was ...

Dorma Gemiah Smith Perry, 96, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Thursday, Nov. 18, 2021. She was born Oct. 1, 1925, in Carroll County, Georgia, to the late Thomas Walter and Belle Hyatt Smith. Dorma moved to Waynesboro with her family in 1936, and graduated from Waynesboro High School in 1942. After graduation Dorma attended Chicago Evangelistic Institute until she was asked to return home to help raise her younger siblings. During her time at CEI she met the love of her ...

Rev. Lee Creig “Pork Chop” Smith, age 64, of Baxley died Monday, Nov. 15, 2021, at his residence under the care of GHC Hospice. Creig was born Dec. 17, 1956, in Dodge County to the late Leavey Carl Smith and the late Vivian Willene McLeod Smith. He was a veteran of the United States Navy, was employed by Georgia Power for many years on high line construction, and was a retired United Methodist Church minister. He was preceded in death by his sister, Christy Elizabeth Smith Hayes. Survivors ...

Rev. S. Carter Berkeley, Jr., age 88, passed away very peacefully Friday, November 12, 2021, at East Georgia Regional Medical Center with much of his family by his bedside. He was born in Wayland, Kentucky on Nov. 25, 1932, to Mr. and Mrs. Shirley Carter Berkeley, Sr. Carter attended Asbury College in Wilmore, Ky. where he met the one and only love of his life, Faye Williams. Carter and Faye married in 1954 after graduating from Asbury and began their ministry together serving the Lord through ...

Rev. Rodger Randall Ray, age 81, passed away on Friday evening, November 5, 2021, at Perfect Care. Private family graveside funeral services will be held. Born June 19, 1940, in Fulton County, he was a son of the late William H. Ray and the late Mary Ray. He received his education from Shorter College in Rome, and Emory School of Theology, and was a veteran of the United States Army. Rev. Ray served as a United Methodist minister for 23 years in the South Georgia Conference of The United ...

Mrs. Evelyn Meadows Steele, 97, of Cartersville, Georgia, passed on to her heavenly home on October 23, 2021. She was laid to rest at Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah, following a graveside service on October 27, 2021. A celebration of her life will be held later at Martha Bowman UMC in Macon, on Saturday, November 6, 2021, at 2:00 p.m., where the family will greet friends following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Epworth By The Sea, 100 Arthur J. Moore ...

Rev. Dr. Edwin Leon Willis, 69, passed away at his home on October 29, 2021, in Madison, Fla. Rev. Dr. Willis was born October 1, 1952, in Madison, Fla. to Linton Leon Willis and Ila Eunice Greene Willis. He was a 1970 graduate of Madison High School where he was a member of the FFA and the Beta Club. Following high school, he attended North Florida Junior College where he earned an A.A. degree. He then attended the University of Florida where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal ...

Jane Ellen Bass, 80, of Valdosta, passed away on Saturday, September 4, 2021, at her residence. She was born in Birmingham, Ala. on February 28, 1941, to the late Herbert Edwin Bryan and Dessie Mae Gann Bryan. Mrs. Bass was married to the love of her life, Reverend Henry Bass, for 50 years. She was a minister’s wife for 41 of those 50 years, and worked in various jobs supporting their ministry. She enjoyed reading, all things Christmas, and going to the beach. Mrs. Bass was always “piddlin” in ...

Merrie Freeman Posey, a beloved wife of 48 years, mother of four children, and grandmother to 11 beautiful grandchildren, resident of St. Simon’s Island, Georgia, passed away on Monday, September 6, 2021, at the age of 71. Merrie is survived by her husband, Reverend J. Stephen Posey, her sons Stephen and John Posey, her daughters Rebekah LaBouff and Sarah Long, siblings Joye Hancock and Reverend George Freeman, in addition to many loving extended family members. Merrie was a thoughtful, loving...

Ray Yody, Sr., 80, of Lake Park, died Saturday, September 4, 2021, at his residence. He was born in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, Ohio on October 15, 1940, to the late Paul George Yody and Helen Schneider Yody. Mr. Yody was a retired United Methodist pastor and was a member of Lake Park United Methodist Church. He served in the United States Navy from January 22, 1959, until January 18, 1963, and the reserves until 1978. Mr. Yody enjoyed camping, traveling, model railroading and spending time with...

Jack Payne, 77, walked into the loving arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on the morning of Thursday, September 2, 2021. He was born on December 7, 1943, in Atlanta, Georgia, to the late Herbert Joseph and Annie Ruth Crouch Payne. While growing up in the East Point/Atlanta area, Jack discovered a great opportunity to earn a dollar by delivering newspapers to the people of his community. He and his brother, Mike, successfully ran the paper route until his graduation from Russell High ...

Clara Dunbar, age 90, of 306 East Union Street, Vienna, died Sunday, August 22, 2021, at her residence. Clara was born on August 18, 1931, to the late Truman Harris and Ruby Nipper Harris. She was a homemaker and loved working in her yard. She also enjoyed jigsaw puzzles. A faithful member of Vienna United Methodist Church, she was a member of the Sunshine Gang Choir, the UMW Morning Glories and played the hand bells. Clara was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Lonnie E. Dunbar, Jr. and ...

Martha “Marty” Wycliffe Hendry Durham, 82, of Statesboro, Ga., entered into rest on Wednesday, August 18, 2021. Marty was born in Owensboro, Kentucky on February 14, 1939, to the late George and Katherine Hendry. She was an active member of Pitman Park United Methodist church in Statesboro. She was a retired educator who spent her working years as a teacher and guidance counselor in the Jenkins County Public School system. Marty enjoyed spending time with her husband George and was an active ...

Byron Johnson Scott, Jr., 76, of Surrency, GA, entered his heavenly home on August 14, 2021, after a short but difficult battle with cancer. The funeral service was held Saturday, August 21 at Bethel United Methodist Church in Surrency. Rev. Ken Morgan, Byron’s son-in-law, and Rev. Dr. Paula Lewis, Byron’s District Superintendent, officiated. Byron was born in Atlanta, GA, on August 9, 1945. He graduated from Southwest DeKalb High School in 1964 and continued on to receive a psychology degree ...

The Rev. Wayne McDonald, age 78, passed away Friday, August 13, 2021, at Archbold Medical Center in Thomasville, Georgia. Services for Rev. McDonald were held at 4 p.m., Saturday, August 21, at Eastside Baptist Church in Cairo, Georgia. The Rev. Chris Allen officiated with military honors. A private burial was held in Salem Seminole Baptist Cemetery in Seminole County (Desser), Georgia. Wayne was born and reared in Seminole County, Donalsonville (Desser), Georgia. His parents were Mr. and Mrs. ...

Dr. James T. Trice, Jr. (Jim) was a son, brother, uncle, husband, dad, Pop and friend. He held other distinctions and titles, but to his family and friends he distinguished himself, most, by the way he dedicated himself to these. His mild, comforting presence, his loving compassion, his warm embrace of all walks of life and beliefs, his level head, rational thought and deep abiding faith are all marks of the human being that his God created and whom he called to serve by ministering to others. ...

Mrs. Sue Johnson Dupree, age 85, passed away on Sunday, May 2, 2021, at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center. Funeral services were held Saturday, May 8, at First United Methodist Church. Interment followed in Oak Grove Cemetery. Sue was born on May 31, 1935, in Saline County, Illinois, to the late Wood and Ruth Duckworth Johnson. She grew up in Christopher, a small town in southern Illinois near the Kentucky border. She met her husband, Rev. Bill Dupree, when he conducted a Sub-District Youth ...

Herbert Stephen Peavy, 63, passed away Sunday, July 4, 2021, at his residence. The Ocala, Fla. native was a United Methodist pastor currently serving at Bethel Brick United Methodist Church in Sylvania. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Corene Peavy; his brother, John Peavy; and his wife, Wendy Peavy. He is survived by his children, Rennata Wilson (Jeremy), Michael Peavy (Ashlyn), Daniel Peavy (Courtney), Timothy Peavy (Danielle), and Jessica Haney (Phillip); 14 ...

Betty Claire Smith, 88, of Reynolds, Ga., went home to be with the Lord Jesus May 24, 2021, at Liberty Commons/Kempton Assisted Living in Jacksonville. She was born to Lonnie Hugh and Sally Mae Pierce September 24, 1932, in Talbotton, Ga. She was the middle child of four other siblings: Walter Hugh, Mary, Paul, and Thomas. She was predeceased by both Walter Hugh and Thomas. She grew up on a farm near Reynolds, graduating from Reynolds High School. She graduated from Business Training Institute ...

Freiya Elizabeth Brown, 70, passed away Saturday, February 20, 2021, at Cartersville Medical Center. Freiya was the daughter of Bill and Hazel Wester and was raised in Dry Branch, Georgia. She graduated from Georgia Southern College in 1972 and taught in Bulloch County Schools for 27 years. After her retirement, Freiya began substitute teaching at Mill Creek Elementary and formed friendships there that would be known as her teaching family. She played a huge role in the lives of many young ...

Sandra H. Arwood, 78, of Buena Vista, GA died Sunday, June 20, 2021 at Magnolia Manor Nursing Facility. A memorial service will be held 3:30 PM Thursday, July 8, 2021 at East Highland United Methodist Church1301 17th St. Columbus, GA 31901 with Rev. Mark Sasser and Rev. Joy Wilson. Mrs. Arwood was born December 6, 1942, in Opelika AL, the daughter of the late J. D. Hood and Reba Hutchinson Hood.  Sandra worked as a CNA with East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika. Other than her parents, she ...

Jackie Miller Pryor, 78, of Fitzgerald, Georgia, died Tuesday, May 18, 2021, at Maple Court in Tifton, Georgia. Graveside services were held Thursday, May 20, 2021, at Pine Level Cemetery in Ben Hill County, Georgia. The Rev. B.J. Funk and Elder Edward McIntyre officiated. Mrs. Pryor was born July 23, 1942, in Irwin County, Georgia, to the late Roy and Louise Mixon Henderson. She lived in the community most of her life and was a 1960 graduate of Irwin County High School. Mrs. Pryor was a ...

Ray Lee Garren passed away Wednesday, May 12, 2021. Graveside services were held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, May 16, 2021, at Monroe Hills Memorial Gardens. Rev. Mark Goolsby officiated. Mr. Garren, the son of the late Lee Wesley Garren and Addie Mae Varner Garren, was born January 23, 1937 in Farmer, North Carolina. His son, Dale Garren, preceded him in death. Mr. Garren worked in the ministry most of his adult life, as a church pastor and managing gospel radio stations. He retired from The United ...

Mrs. Elizabeth Pratt-Hutcherson, a retired school teacher and widow of two ministers, died Thursday, April 8, at Ogeechee Area Hospice in Statesboro. Known as “Libby” to friends and family, she was 96 years old and had recently been battling the effects of Parkinson’s disease. The former Lila Elizabeth Lee, daughter of Horace and Clara Lee, was born and spent her childhood on a farm near Newington in Screven County. A graduate of Newington High School, she attended what became Armstrong State...

Eleanor Howard Walton, 82, passed away at Phoebe-Sumter Hospital in Americus, Georgia on April 13, 2021. She was born on July 30, 1938, in Albany, Georgia, to the late Elbert Kelly Howard and Mary Belcher Howard. Eleanor is preceded in death by both of her parents, her husband, Asbury Bernard Walton, a sister, Ginger Beck, and a brother-in-law, G. W. Riles. Survivors include her two daughters, Merri Lynn (Jimmy) Babb of Lumpkin, Georgia and Kelly (Steve) Horne of Gray, Georgia; five ...

Marguerite Ziegler-Buchan, 71, of Brunswick, passed away at Southeast Georgia Health System on April 5, 2021. Arrangements may be made at a later date. Cremation services were provided by Golden Isles Cremation Center / Brunswick Memorial Park Funeral Home.

Sharon M. Atkinson was born September 28, 1945, in Lakeland, Fla. Later with her family they moved to Panama City, Fla. In 1954, she moved to Huntsville, Ala. where she went to 5th Ave. School and later, Huntsville High School. She was in the band and Mu Alpha Theta. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church. She graduated from Huntsville High in 1963. Following high school, she attended Birmingham-Southern College and was a member of Delta Zeta sorority. She graduated December 15, ...

Archie Bob Dixon passed away at Archbold Memorial Hospital on April 10, 2021. He is the son of the late Bernard and Pearl Dixon. Mr. Dixon was valedictorian of his high school class of 1951. He’s studied at Emory of Oxford, Emory at Valdosta, Candler School of Theology, Emory University in Atlanta and received the Master of Christian Education degree. He served 65 years of ministry in the Methodist Church as Diaconal Minister of Christian Education, serving churches in Montgomery, Ala.; Albany, ...

Emmie Stewart Carlton Johnson, 91, died peacefully at home the afternoon of Monday, November 30, 2020, one block from her birthplace in Oxford, Georgia. The daughter of educators Professor W. A. ¨Squire¨ Carlton and Annie Lou Bartlett Carlton, her early life was part of the close faculty community at what is now called Oxford College of Emory University. She was the namesake of Miss Emmie Stewart, who provided room, board, and genuine inspiration for Emory students, including Emmie’s father ...

Rev. John Thomas (Tom) Edwards, Jr., of Port Wentworth, formerly of Elberton, age 80, passed away at his home March 6, 2021, with his family at his side. He was born on August 22, 1940, son of the late Virginia C. Edwards and the late John T. Edwards, Sr. Tom was a 1958 graduate of Elberton High School and a graduate of Armstrong State University with an Associate and Bachelor’s degrees. He also graduated from the nine-year summer program of the Candler School of Theology Course of Study from ...

Rev. Carl Patrick Mahan, age 61 of Scottsboro, Alabama, passed away Saturday, February 20, 2021, at his home. A memorial service was held Saturday, February 27, 2021, at Randall’s Chapel United Methodist Church Worship Center, where he served as pastor for the last six years. Rev. Todd Henderson, pastor of Arab First United Methodist Church officiated. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Randall’s Chapel United Methodist Church in his memory. Rev. Mahan is survived by ...

William Metts (Bill) Whipple, 89, passed away on February 10, 2021, after a Covid-19 diagnosis following a long illness. He lived his entire life in Georgia until the past year, which he and his wife Elizabeth spent in a care facility in Las Vegas, NV near one of their daughters. He was born in Atlanta, GA on March 2, 1931, to Wendell and Carolyn (Smith) Whipple, and he grew up in Perry, GA. He was an innovative thinker and a passionate advocate for making the world a better place, serving as a ...

The Reverend Matthew “Matt” Jerry Hearn, 47, of Pooler, Georgia and husband of Lori Ann Rawling Hearn, died Saturday morning, January 30, 2021, at his home with his wife of almost 23 years at his side. Born in Lexington, Kentucky, he was a son of Stephen Mark Hearn and Gail Cosby Westberg. Matt earned his undergraduate degree from Asbury University and his Master of Divinity degree from Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky. He was a former Youth Director at Wauchula United Methodist...

Graveside services for Mrs. Elizabeth Bussell Thompson, 89, were held Thursday, January 28, 2021, at Washington County Memorial Gardens in Sandersville. Dr. Stan Littleton and Rev. Chad Watkins officiated. Mrs. Thompson was born on April 26, 1931. A native of Washington County, she grew up in the small community of Warthen on Bay Springs Road. Her mother passed away when she was 6 years old, and she was raised by her father and two paternal aunts, Lillie (Otis) Parker and Minnie Lee Bussell. ...

Melba Benson Belcher, age 91, died Friday, January 8, 2021, at her residence at Magnolia Manor in Macon. Funeral services were held Sunday, January 10, 2021, in the chapel of Mathis Funeral Home. Burial was in Bartow Cemetery in Bartow, Ga. Mrs. Belcher, born in Bleckley County, had lived in Cochran before moving to Macon several years ago. She was the daughter of the late John and Mable Wynne Benson and was preceded in death by her husband Rev. Zephoe Belcher, Jr. Mrs. Melba was a retired ...

The Reverend Charles Franklin McCook, PhD., 93, passed peacefully January 1, 2021, at Wellstar West Georgia Hospice in LaGrange. Frank lived an abundant life of service – service to God, family, church, and country. He will be remembered as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, philomathical theologian, caring pastor, challenging professor, passionate gardener, Army veteran, author, a man of proud Scottish decent, and devoted follower of Christ. Son of CB and Margaret (Trimble) McCook of ...

The Rev. Arthur L. Bishop, 76, of St. Simons Island, Ga., passed away peacefully Jan. 7, 2021, at his home. The Rev. Bishop (aka Art, Dad, Pops, Lanny) was born on Jan. 23, 1944, in Birmingham, Ala. Son of the late Edwin Hines Bishop and Marjorie Lanier Bishop, he grew up in Miami, Fla., and was a 1962 graduate of Coral Gables High School. He earned his undergraduate degree from Florida Southern University, and his Master in Divinity degree from Garrett Evangelical-Theological Seminary. He ...

James William Yarbrough, Jr, age 79, of Valdosta, Ga, passed away at South Georgia Medical Center on January 11, 2021. He was born in Valdosta, Ga. to J. W. and Erbie Yarbrough on September 6, 1941. He is survived by his four biological children: James “Jamie” Yarbrough III, Stephen (Tammy) Yarbrough, Teresa (Clyde) White, Kathy (Jerry) Lattin; 25 grandchildren; 31 great grandchildren; one sister Cheryl (Joe) Seigel; one brother, Olin Yarbrough; and one sister-in-law, Shalyn (Kenny) Wilson. He...

Rev. Paul Whitfield Dupree, 76, of Albany went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, December 30, 2020. The family will host a memorial service at a later date. Rev. Dupree was born June 15, 1944, in Pinehurst, Georgia to the late Jack and Pauline Dupree. He proudly served our country in the United States Air Force and later followed his calling into the ministry as a pastor in The United Methodist Church. In 1971, he was appointed to the South Georgia Conference and with his wife ...

Rev. Joseph Wesley Jones Jr., of Moulton, Alabama, died Sunday, Jan. 10 in Huntsville at the age of 67 following a brief illness. A retired United Methodist pastor who spent almost 30 years serving 10 churches in the South Georgia Conference, Wesley is survived by his wife, June, of 48 years. They met at Andrew College (Cuthbert, Georgia), married in 1972 and graduated together from Andrew College and LaGrange College (LaGrange, Georgia). Wesley received his Master of Divinity degree from ...

Mrs. Mae Dobbs Jones, 93, passed away Saturday, December 19, 2020. Services were held at Tuesday, Dec. 22 at Forest Hills United Methodist Church. Dr. Baxter Hurley and Rev. Teresa Edwards officiated. Burial was at Macon Memorial Park Cemetery. Mrs. Jones was born in Marietta, Georgia, the daughter of the late Sadie Ethel Mae Deal Dobbs and Thomas Watson Dobbs. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Karen Holleman and her brother, Thomas Dobbs. Mrs. Jones retired from the Georgia Farm Bureau ...

The Rev. Michael Alva McAfee passed away December 29, 2020, at Columbus Hospice. He was born April 29, 1944, in Roberta, GA to the late Henry and Ellen Bankston McAfee. He graduated from Crawford County High School, 1962; Bruton-Parker Junior College, on a baseball/basketball scholarship, 1963; LaGrange College, 1964-1966 and Emory University, Candler School of Theology with a Master of Divinity, 1966-1969. He was ordained a deacon in 1967 and a full elder in 1969. On July 2, 1967, he married ...

Reverend Sue C. DeJournett, wife of Dr. Ned R. DeJournett of Macon, died December 23 in Savannah, Georgia. She had survived lung cancer for six years. Services were held at Macon Memorial Park Cemetery on Wednesday, December 30, 2020. Reverend Theresa Edwards officiated. Reverend DeJournett was born Rosalie Sue Cottrill to loving parents, Ruby and L. Beryl Cottrill, in Parkersburg, West Virginia in 1937. Educated in the public schools of Huntington, West Virginia, Reverend Delournett held BA ...

Wendy Peavy, 59, passed away Wednesday, December 9, 2020 at Hospice Savannah. She was raised in Lake City, FL, but was a longtime Georgia resident. She was a “professional” mother and grandmother, as well as cook and hostess. She worked for Oliver Kitchens and Bath. She is survived by her husband, Steve Peavy; children, Rennata Wilson (Jeremy), Michael Peavy (Ashlyn), Daniel Peavy (Courtney), Timothy Peavy (Danielle), Jessica Haney (Phillip); mother, Betty Boutwell; sisters, Kim Moore and ...

Rev. Marvin Goodman, age 79, of Ray City, Ga., formerly of Atkinson County, passed away peacefully at his home, Thursday, November 12, 2020, following an extended illness. Born May 30, l941, in Willacoochee, Ga., Rev. Goodman was the son of Woodrow and Louise Corbitt Goodman. He retired from Albertson’s Food Stores as manager in Longwood, Fla. and then began a career in ministry. He served many churches: Cornerstone Church in Pearson, Manor Methodist, Stapleton Methodist, Blackshear Methodist, ...

Michael “Mickey” Lamont Newton 75, of Sylvania, passed Saturday morning, October 17, 2020, at the Ogeechee Area Hospice Inpatient Facility surrounded by his family. Mickey was born in Savannah to the late Vance and Pansy Hayman Newton and was reared in Rincon. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He served his country in the Vietnam War and was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal; Vietnam Service Medal with 2 Stars, RCN Campaign Ribbon with Vice 60; ...

Thomas N. “Tom” Young, 67, of Lakeland, Georgia, passed away on Saturday, October 17, 2020, in the South Georgia Medical Center, Lanier Campus. He was born on May 19, 1953, in Kokomo, Indiana to the late Lucille (Porter) and Robert Young. Tom was the pastor of Unity United Methodist Church and also served several churches in Florida, Indiana, and Illinois over the years. He enjoyed watching sports and was an avid fan of his White Sox, Colts, and Pacers. He always loved preaching the gospel and ...

Miss Betty Sue Brantley, age 79, of Vidalia died Thursday, October 15, 2020, in the Community Hospice House in Vidalia, after a brief illness. She was a native of Vidalia and a 1959 graduate of Vidalia High School. She was a graduate of Andrew College and LaGrange College, earning a degree in Christian Education. She also did additional study at Scarritt College in Nashville, Tennessee. The additional study qualified her to be a Diaconal Minister of Program in The United Methodist Church. She ...

Marlene N. Thornton, 66, passed away on Monday, October 6, 2020. Marlene was the pianist at First United Methodist Church of Hinesville. She had a deep love for music and for animals. Along with the piano, she played the flute, melodica, violin, and a variety of percussion instruments. She was preceded in death by her parents, C. Marvin and Elizabeth M. Nettles of Ridgeland, SC; and her husband, best friend, and soulmate, Dale Thornton. She is survived by one brother, M. Eugene Nettles ...

Richard Allan Trawick, age 76, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 17, 2020, at Memorial Hospital in Bainbridge, GA. He was born November 20, 1943, in Bainbridge, GA to Brandy Gee Trawick, Sr. and Jewel Irene Goodwin Trawick. He graduated from Seminole County High School in 1961. He entered the Air Force in 1962 and served four years. He was married to Sandra Stewart Trawick for 54 years. They had three children. In 1976, he entered the ministry and served in the South Georgia ...

Rev. Randy Mosley, 65, of Sparks, Georgia, passed away September 12, 2020, at the Mayo Clinic Medical Center in Jacksonville, Florida. He was born November 14, 1954, in Ware county to the late Winston Henry Mosley and Juanita Carter Mosley. Rev. Mosley was a minister for 36 years with the South Georgia Conference of The United Methodist Church and had lived in Cook County for many years. He had also served as a Chaplain with Bethany Hospice since his retirement. Rev. Mosley attended the Antioch...

Dr. Douglas Tripp Holden passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, August 22, 2020. He was born October 20, 1936, in Battle Creek, the son of Max W. and Gladys D. (Wells) Holden. Dr. Holden was a great proponent of education. He was educated at the University of Michigan where he received his B.A., then went on to study at Duke University and Southern Methodist University and received his B.D. and Graduate Studies, and finally to the University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, Scotland, where ...

Rev. Brooks Partain, age 91, died Friday, August 28, 2020, at Willson Hospice House in Albany. Funeral services are planned for 2 p.m. on Tuesday, September 1, at Lee Street United Methodist Church, with Dr. Dennis Stalvey and Rev. John Brodess officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Tuesday between the hours of 10-11 a.m. at Hancock Funeral Home, 427 S. Lee St. The staff of Hancock Funeral Home would like to issue a gentle reminder to all ...

Rev. James Ellis Boyd, age 83, died August 29, 2020, surrounded by his family at his St. Simon’s Island home after a long illness. Rev. Boyd was a retired minister, serving 19 years in the Southern Baptists Georgia church and 25 years in The United Methodist Church. He was born and raised on his family farm in Toombs County Georgia and graduated from Toombs Central High School in 1955. Rev. Boyd was a past Master of the Inman Creek Lodge #491, and member of the Quint Shrine. He was educated at ...

Rev. Marcelle G. Myers, 87, of St. Marys, made his transition Friday, Aug. 14, 2020, under the watch care of Southeast Georgia Health System, Camden and Brunswick campus. He was born in St. Marys on Feb. 24, 1933, to the late Elmo Hill Myers and Muriel Williams. He is preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Joyce T. Myers, Elmo V. Myers (brother), Howard L. Myers (brother), Gwen Thomas (sister), Cathy Richardson (daughter), Jerome Myers (son) and Avis Merritt (daughter). He was a member of ...

James H. Snell, Jr., better known as Jim, died unexpectedly on the night of July 21, 2020. He was 89 years old. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Joanne; one daughter, Viki Mullins (Lee); son, James H. Snell, III (Diane); son, Thomas Snell (Sheryl); one granddaughter, Kate Snell, and six grandsons, Samuel Snell (Jessica), Drew, Michael (Margaret) and Mark Mullins, Matt and Danny Snell; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother; a sister; and ...