Obituaries

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 ...

Joyce T. Myers, 87, of St. Marys, made her transition on Monday, June 15, 2020, under the watch care of hospice and the St. Marys Senior Care Center. In conjunction with her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, they visited periodically. Mrs. Joyce Myers was born in New Orleans on Dec. 8, 1932, to the late Elmo Foster and Lillian Evans. She moved to St. Marys in 1950 and lived in different states until she returned to St. Marys in 1973. She was a member of Greater Trinity ...

Reverend Irie Monroe Cyree, 95, of Phenix City, Ala., died Wednesday, June 24, 2020, at Columbus Hospice House. Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, the family will hold a memorial service at a later date. A private interment will be held at Parkhill Cemetery. Rev. Cyree was born March 4, 1925, in Columbus, Ga. to the late Isaac Wayne and Ethel Hill Cyree. He was a World War II Navy veteran and a member of the Midland Masonic Lodge #144. Rev. Cyree was the Associate Pastor at Summerville Road ...

Mark Kase, a longtime resident of St. Simons Island, Georgia, passed away peacefully at his residence on Tuesday, June 30, 2020. Mark was born on September 5, 1934, in Huntington, Indiana. He was the son of the late Elmer Kase and Arline Kirkendall Kase. He was also preceded in death by his three older brothers. After graduating from seminary at Duke University, Mark joined the Marine Corp and was assigned as Chaplain. He served in the Far East with the Corp for seven years. He was selected by...

Rev. Henry Kenyon Erwin died Monday, June 8, 2020. He was born in Damascus, Ga. on May 2, 1920. He was predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Lila Skinner Erwin, and one grandson. He is survived by five daughters, eight grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Methodist Children’s Home, Magnolia Manor, The Georgia War Veterans Nursing Home in Augusta, or a church missions’ program of your choice. A memorial ...

Rev. Tommy E. McCook, Jr., 73, of Midway, GA passed away Tuesday, May 26, 2020, at his residence. Graveside services for Rev. McCook were held Monday, June 1, 2020, at Ramah Cemetery. The Rev. McRae Mangum, Jr. officiated. Services were streamed the Williams Funeral Homes Facebook page. Son of the late Tommy E. McCook, Sr. and the late Dorothy Dennard McCook, he was a native of Gordon, GA. He is preceded in death by his brother, Mike McCook and his in-laws John and Dorothy Brown. Rev McCook ...

Kathleen Crenshaw Edwards died peacefully at her home on May 1, 2020 after an extended illness. Born in Salem, Kentucky on July 12, 1927, Kathleen was the daughter of Ira Patterson Crenshaw, a Methodist minister, and Alma McFarland Crenshaw, an accomplished musician and piano teacher. She attended Asbury College in Wilmore, Kentucky, where she met her future husband, William Russell Edwards, Jr., of Fort Valley, Georgia. They were married on June 2, 1951. Like her mother, Kathy was an ...

Clifford “Cliff” K. Wallace, 87, of Macon, went to be with his Jesus Saturday, May 9, 2020. A private graveside service was held Friday, May 15, 2020 at Evergreen Cemetery in Fitzgerald, Georgia with the Reverend Jim Cowart officiating. Those wishing to honor Cliff’s memory may do so with a contribution to Harvest Church, 3322 US-41, Byron, GA 31008; Rehoboth Appalachian Ministries, 744 Lake Joy Rd, Warner Robins, GA 31088; or to your local food bank or food kitchen, such as Mulberry United ...

The Rev. Carl Eugene “Gene” Cariker Sr., 93, died April 26, 2020, at his home on St. Simons Island, Ga. He was born in Clayton, Texas, and grew up on a small farm in Gary, Texas. At age 16, he worked in the shipyard in Orange, Texas, before serving in the United States Army as a tank commander. While stationed at Fort Benning, he met Jane Wall of Columbus, Ga., at a USO dance. They were married in 1946, and had a wonderful marriage and partnership in ministry for their 60 years together. He ...

Paige was born in Adel, Georgia to Monsieur and Elma (Lindsey) Dampier. She is a 1958 graduate of Cook County High School, where she was the Salutatorian, Beta Club President, Editor of the Yearbook, and Homecoming Queen. She attended Georgia Southern University where she earned a B.S. in Home Economics Education. She received a Master of Christian Education from Candler School of Theology at Emory University in1962. She earned a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education from Georgia ...

In the evening of April 9, 2020, Juanita Wilder died and entered into God’s presence in the eternal place prepared for her. Her life was a living testimony of her faith in Christ. She was born on September 3, 1932, in Brantley County to Frank and Missouri Hale who along with her eight brothers and sisters have preceded her in death. She is also preceded in death by her first husband, Sgt. Lester Strickland, who died in a peacetime military accident involving the B-29 of which he was a flight ...

Lt. Colonel/Reverend Donald Charles Warren, age 87, born on Dec. 9, 1932, went to live in his Father’s house Sunday, March 22, 2020, after complications from pneumonia. Don is survived by his wife of nine years Nancy (Miller) Warren of Marietta, Ga., and Bonita Springs, Fla. He loved and cherished all of Nancy’s children and grandchildren as if they were his own. The younger grandchildren affectionately called him Papa or Papa Don. His beloved stepchildren and step-grandchildren are Kelli ...

Reverend Dr. Dwight David Irons, age 66, of Tennille, died on Friday, March 27, 2020, in the Washington County Regional Medical Center. A memorial service for Dr. Irons will be held at a date and time to be announced later. Dr. Irons was born in Providence, Rhode Island on February 20, 1954. He was the son of the late Edwin David Irons and the late Grace Dorothy Otton Irons. Dr. Irons was a retired Bishop of the Anglican Church of America. He was a graduate of Pawtucket Memorial Hospital School...

Claude T. “Ted” Bass, 85, of Macon, passed away Sunday, March 1, 2020. Funeral services were held Friday, March 6, 2020, at Riverside United Methodist Church with the Reverends Dr. John Brown, Reverend Steve Keck, and Reverend Antonie Walker officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Riverside United Methodist Church, 735 Pierce Ave., Macon, GA 31204. Ted was born in Harlan County, Kentucky and grew up in West Point, Georgia. He earned a Bachelor of Art degree from ...

The Reverend Dr. John Errell Horton, Jr., 82, former United Methodist Church pastor and beloved husband, father and grandfather, went to be with the Lord on March 8, 2020.  A celebration of life was held Friday, March 13, 2020, at Martha Bowman United Methodist Church with Dr. Bob Moon and Reverend Mark Magoni officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Missions-Horton, South Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 7227, Macon, GA 31209. A native ...

The Reverend Mr. James Allen Brooks has received the desire of his heart, joining the Lord he loved and served as a United Methodist pastor in the South Georgia Conference for 35 years. He passed on from his home outside Nashville to his eternal home early on Saturday morning, March 7, 2020, after a brief illness, while in the care of his loving family. He was 23 days shy of his 90th birthday. He served part of his ministry as an Air Force chaplain, and retired from active ministry in 1995, when...

The Rev. James D. Aycock, Jr., retired member of The South Georgia Conference of The United Methodist Church, passed away Friday, March 13, 2020, at The Medical Center, Navicent Health in Macon, GA. James was born in Vidalia, GA, on October 15, 1951, the second of four children born into the home of The Rev. and Mrs. J. David (Polly) Aycock, Sr., and has lived in multiple communities across South Georgia as a member of a pastor’s family. His homes have included locations in Uvalda, Sardis, ...

Rev. Joe F. Stevens, Jr., 90, of Eastman, passed away Saturday, Feb. 15, 2020. A Celebration of Life service was held Friday, Feb. 21, 2020, at his residence in Eastman. A reception followed at Eastman First United Methodist Church. Rev. Stevens was born Dec. 10, 1929, in Newnan, Georgi, to the late Julia Stokes Stevens and Joe Frank Stevens, Sr. He was a retired Methodist minister serving churches in both north and south Georgia, most recently serving the Elko Charge; Elko UMC, Snow UMC, and ...

Helen Claire Smith Rogers, beloved wife of Sam, passed to be with her Lord on Monday morning, February 10th, 2020. Helen was born in Douglas, Georgia on February 6th, 1937 to Frances Gertrude Wester Smith and Chester Morgan Smith, Sr. She grew up all over Georgia . . . 11 different towns, from as far north as Cartersville to down on the Florida line. . . but always vacationed and summered in the Smith home at Abbeville, Wilcox County, Georgia. Helen married Reverend Samuel Gordon Rogers, III of ...

Belle Cochran, 97, died December 17, 2019. A native of Ashburn, Ga., she was a daughter of the late Lois Helms and Claude Lindsey Jones. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. W. E. Cochran; daughter, Patricia C. Mount; son, Andy Cochran; son-in-law, Blake Hardigree; and four siblings. As the wife of a minister, she and Rev. Cochran served several churches in the North and South Georgia Conferences of The United Methodist Church for many years. She was currently a member of Ashford ...

Shirley Pike (Turner) Darden died peacefully at her home on November 21, 2019, having two days earlier celebrated her 80th birthday. Shirley was born in LaGrange, Ga. to Andrew Howard and Lillie Mae Pike. She married John Kenneth Turner in 1959 and they had two children, Elizabeth Hope, Savannah, Ga.; and Jonathan Scott Turner, Savannah, Ga. She was a loving wife and mother and shared the ministry of The United Methodist Church with her former husband before his death in 1993. She was blessed ...

Mrs. Ruth Bray Brown passed away at home in Statesboro, Georgia at the age of 86, on November 7, after an extended illness. Mrs. Ruth Brown was born in Johnson County, Georgia, daughter of the late C. Ostelle Bray and the late Louise Young Bray. She attended Georgia Southern College where she graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Education; she taught fifth, first and kindergarten. She completed her 31-year teaching career in Long County, teaching kindergarten after serving several school ...

Reverend Ruben Vance Riggins, age 69, passed away surrounded by his loved ones on Oct. 26, 2019, after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. His life is celebrated by his wife, Vicky Melton Riggins, and their children, Reuben Grady Riggins (and Ashley Sears), Jonathan Ross Riggins, and Mary Hannah Riggins Samples (and Justin Samples), and grandson, Benjamin Samples. Vance was in the first graduating class of Flint River Academy in 1968. He graduated from Auburn University in 1973 with a ...

Rev. Edward Cadle, 96, passed away Sept. 12, 2019, at his residence after a long illness, joining his wife of 74 years in heaven with Jesus, which is where he longed to be. The Hepzibah, Ga. native was a member of Garden City United Methodist Church where he taught the Barrett-Cadle Sunday School Class for many years. He was a Methodist minister for 40 years before founding Mission on the Move.  He also served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Eve ...

Reverend Sanford V. Brown, Sr., of Savannah, passed away Sept. 4, 2019, in Columbus. Sanford was born October 31, 1927, in Hartwell, Ga. to William Howard Brown, Sr. and Lois Cook Brown. Number eight of 13 children, Sanford was raised on a dairy farm near Dawson, Ga. He graduated from Sasser High School. He attended Young Harris College and graduated from Georgia Teachers College (now Georgia Southern University) and Emory University Candler School of Theology. Rev. Brown served as a United ...

Chaplain George “Joe” Joseph Leatherwood, Lieutenant Colonel (U.S. Army Retired) passed away Monday, August 12, 2019, at his home after a long battle with cancer. Joe was born August 2, 1948, in Columbus, Ohio to the late George E. and Faye Jones Leatherwood. He received his Bachelor in Theology from Ohio Christian University and received his Master of Divinity from Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, MO. Joe was a retired Chaplain for the United States Army with over 22 years of ...

Inez Cadle, 98, passed away July 31, 2019 at her residence after a long illness. The Toccoa, Ga. native was a member of Garden City United Methodist Church. She was instrumental in the ministry of her husband, Rev. Edward Cadle. She was an x-ray and lab technician during World War II. She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur & Mamie Davis; sisters, Rosie (Harris) McKenzie and Ann (Jack) Irvin; brother, J.A. Davis; and grandchildren, Nicholas Cadle, Misty Bridgeforth, and Shane Cadle. ...

Velma Weismiller Foster, age 92, entered into rest Saturday June 29, 2019. A native of St. Johns, Michigan, she was born January 30, 1927, to the late Wesley Weismiller and the late Laura Nettie Sperry Weismiller. Velma graduated from Asbury College and married the late Rev. J. Ralph Foster. Together they served many churches across the South Georgia Conference of The United Methodist Church for 45 years. After Pastor Foster’s death, “Miss Velma” moved to Cobb County where she was a member of ...

The Rev. Dr. Frank LaPrade Padgett was born in Atlanta, Georgia, to parents the Rev. Dr. Robert T. Padgett and Samie Bowman Padgett. He was survived by his wife of 24 years, Allison Hancock Padgett; three children: William Robert Padgett (April), Justin Satterfield Padgett (Mairi), and Heather Barkley Padgett Futch; one stepson, Steven Gentile (Solvig); five grandchildren; and a sister, Therese Padgett. Frank was born into a loving Methodist parsonage and named for his father’s first two ...

Tobye Ruth Bindes Watkins, 68, of Savannah, Georgia and wife of the Reverend Dr. Samuel William Watkins, died Friday morning, May 31, 2019, at Hospice Savannah. Born in Detroit, Michigan, she was a daughter of the late Louis Lloyd Bindes and the late Sarah Edith Rosner Bindes. Tobye was a founding member of Temple Oseh Shalom in Bluffton, South Carolina. She was a retired registered nurse. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Lewis Harris Markowitz. Surviving ...

Thomas Newton Pruette, Jr., 81, of Quitman, died Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2019, at South Georgia Medical Center. Graveside rites, with military honors, were held Sunday, Feb. 24, 2019, at Westview Cemetery with the United States Honor Guard Chaplain officiating. The United States Army Honor Guard served as casketbearers. Honorary casketbearers were members of the Azalea Masonic Lodge #716 of Valdosta. Born April 14, 1937, in Valdosta, he was the son of the late Thomas Newton Pruette, Sr. and Edna ...

Beloved by family and friends, Elia Josephine Lilley Dorsey died peacefully, surrounded by family, on the morning of May 2, 2019, at the Langdale Hospice House in Valdosta, Georgia. She was 89. The daughter of Glenn Newman and Elma Barnes Lilley, Elia was born on November 26, 1929, in Gatesville, North Carolina. Along with her three brothers and one sister, Elia grew up working on the family farm which had been managed by her family for multiple generations. It was in the coastal region of ...

Mrs. Betty Ann Flowers Driggers, 78, of Tifton, passed away Monday, April 15, 2019, at her residence surrounded by her loving family. Services were held Wednesday, April 17, 2019, in the Chapel of Albritton Funeral Directors with Brad Padgett, grandson, and the Rev. Joseph Carter officiating. Mrs. Driggers was laid to rest at Mt. Calvary United Methodist Church Cemetery. Grandsons and nephews serving as pallbearers were Matthew Driggers, Philip Hankins, Greg Williams, Clint Flowers, Doug ...

Brother Jim McLendon, age 86, of Homer, Georgia, passed away on Wednesday, April 17, 2019. Brother Jim was born on April 25, 1932, in Columbus, Georgia; a son of the late James Jesse and Katherine Hammond McLendon. He was also preceded in death by his son, Mike McLendon and brother, Ed Sanderlin. Brother McLendon was a member of Homer United Methodist Church. He served in the South Georgia United Methodist Conference for 40 years in the following churches: in Rebecca at Rebecca Charge UMC, ...

Thomas “Tom” Daniel Sattler died at his home at 2:22 p.m. at Spring Hill Country Club in Tifton, Georgia, on April 6, 2019, under the care of Hospice of Tiftarea. Thomas Daniel Sattler was born September 22, 1954, in Washington, D.C. to Frank Charles Sattler and Mary Louise Noto Sattler of Italian descent from Scranton, Pennsylvania. He grew up attending the Roman Catholic Church and Christian School at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Vienna, Virginia. In his spare time, Tom loved playing ball on ...

After a well fought battle with Alzheimer’s Disease, Betty Ruth Sellers Freeman, age 89, went to her heavenly home on Wednesday, March 6, 2019. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 9 at Tennille United Methodist Church. Reverend Randall Smith and Mr. Scott Fuss officiated. Betty was the seventh of eight children born to the late Walter Simeon Sellers and the late Emma Kathleen Moore Sellers in Waycross, Georgia. On June 26, 1946, she married Ramus Guy Freeman. Betty was a ...

Betty Swearingen Hurdle, 89, of Macon, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2019. A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 6, 2019, at 2 p.m. at Mulberry Street United Methodist Church. The Reverend Matt Woodberry and the Reverend Tommy Perkins will officiate. The family will greet friends following the service in the Fellowship Hall. The daughter of the late Rufus Darley and Carrie L. Swearingen, Mrs. Hurdle was a veteran of the United States Air Force Reserve. She was a teacher at Mount de ...

Reverend William Earl “Bill” Berry, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, went to be with the Lord on January 22, 2019. He was born to the late Evelyn Sheppard and Luther Hartzel Berry. Bill grew up in Graniteville, SC and at the age of 9 came to live with his legal guardians Lucy and Reginald West. He resided in their home until he graduated from Leavelle McCampbell High School and joined the United States Navy. While on leave at the age of 23, he attended a church ...

Colonel Thomas Jere “Jere” Cater, Sr., USAF (Ret.), died Thursday, January 10, 2019, at Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL. He was 72. Col. Cater was born in Macon, GA, the only child of Thomas Johnson Cater, Jr., and Hedvig Linnea Elisabeth Swanson Cater, both of Warner Robins. He was Salutatorian of the Class of 1964 at Warner Robins High School. While attending Georgia Institute of Technology on an Air Force scholarship, he worshiped regularly at St. Mark United Methodist Church in downtown ...

Deacon Carlton Rainge, age 67, of Blackshear, Ga., passed away Sunday night, January 6, 2019, at the Orange Park Medical Center in Orange Park, Fla., following a brief illness. His loved ones were by his bedside. He was born August 3, 1951, to the late Daniel Lee Sr. and Martha Fisher Rainge. He attended the Nahunta Elementary School System and then Center High School in Waycross before returning to Brantley County High School where he graduated in 1969. After high school, he matriculated at ...

William Edward Ratcliffe, 70, of Brunswick, departed this life Thursday, January 10, 2019, at Southeast Georgia Health Systems. Born September 22, 1948, in Brunswick, Georgia, he was a 1966 graduate of Glynn Academy and attended Brunswick Junior College, Georgia Southern, South Georgia College, The Jewelers Institute of America, and Emory Candler School of Theology Course of Study. He was a living donor recipient and was the recipient of two kidney transplants. He had a tremendous love of ...

Rev. Dr. D.R. Parker was born on June 13, 1932, and passed away on Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. Rev. Dr. Parker was a resident of Twin City, Georgia at the time of passing. He had served as pastor for the Stillmore United Methodist Church and was a United States Navy veteran. Funeral services were held Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2018, at Tomlinson Funeral Home with Dr. James M. Ford, Rev. Russ Lowe, and Rev. Ros Parker officiating. Interment followed in the Stillmore City Cemetery with military honors. ...

Billie Joyce Cole Parrish passed away peacefully on Saturday evening, November 24, 2018. She was the youngest of five sisters born to the late James Wesley Cole and late Linnie Lee Meeks Cole of Nichols, GA (Coffee County). On April 16, 1949, she married her beloved husband of 66 years, the late Reverend Walter Guy Parrish, Jr. Mrs. Parrish is survived by their two sons, James Walter Parrish, Sr. (Nancy) and William “Bill” Guy Parrish (Pam); two grandsons, James Walter Parrish, Jr., and William...

Rev. Richard G. Aultman, 84, died Sunday, Nov. 4, 2018. Services were held Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2018, at Byron United Methodist Church with Rev. Tom Carruth officiating. Burial followed in Oaklawn Cemetery. Born in Byron to the late Calder Gresham Aultman Sr. and Helen Gassett Aultman, Rev. Aultman served in Germany while serving in the United States Army. He became an ordained Methodist minister with the South Georgia Conference in 1967 and honored the Lord with his service for 31 years. After ...

Ruth Holland Glisson Sheppard, 88, entered into rest Thursday, October 18, 2018. She was born in Girard to the late Ella Mae Miller and Joseph Marvin Holland, Sr. She worked at Sardis Manufacturing Company for many years. She was a member of Paine’s Chapel United Methodist Church in Jenkins County and Bethel Brick Church. Ruth was a piano player and singer for many churches throughout the South Georgia Conference of The United Methodist Church. She also played for the Singing Saints of St. John ...

Karen Toms Johnson, age 66, of Pine Mountain, Ga., died peacefully at home on Sept. 13, 2018, of bvFTD (Fronto-Temporal Dementia, behavioral variant). Born in Miami, Fla., Karen was the daughter of Ronald M. Toms and Verna Cogan Toms. Karen Johnson was a graduate of Tucker High School 1970, and The University of Georgia (Phi Beta Kappa) 1974, receiving a B.F.A. with a concentration in jewelry and ceramics. She later earned a M.S. in International Relations in Political Science and a Six Year ...

Rev. Lewis Wallace Strickland, age 86, of Locust Grove, Ga., passed away September 17, 2018. Rev. Strickland was born in Taylors Creek, Ga., the son of the late Bessie Ashmore Strickland and Thaddeus Olin Strickland. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Leonora Mizelle. He served his country in the U.S. Army for two years and the Army Reserves for seven. He attended Georgia Teachers College which is now Georgia Southern College and received his teaching certificate before going on to ...

On Tuesday, September 4, 2018, Betty Frances Hagan Gilbert (widow of the Rev. Emory C. Gilbert Sr.), loving wife and mother of two, passed away at the age of 89. She was born in Savannah, Georgia to Frank A. Hagan and Frances Oree Hunter Hagan on January 13, 1929. Mrs. Gilbert attended schools in Titusville, Florida and graduated high school from Savannah High in 1946. She worked for seven years at the Citizens & Southern Bank in Savannah before marrying the Rev. Emory Carter Gilbert on June 8,...

Reverend Harold Tucker, age 91, of the South Thompson Community, died Thursday, August 30, 2018, in Meadows Health and Rehabilitation in Vidalia, after an extended illness. He was born in Alapaha in Berrien County, where he grew up, and lived there until serving in the U.S. Navy. He was called to the ministry in 1951 and served numerous churches in South Georgia.  The first church he pastored was Leila-Weeks Chapel United Methodist Church in Ty Ty, several years at the First United Methodist ...

Rev. Jerry Turner Lott, 74, of Candler County and husband of Shirley Collins Lott, went home to be with the Lord after spending his life loving Jesus and his family. He passed away on August 10, 2018, at Ogeechee Area Hospice in Statesboro. Jerry was a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. Born in Metter on April 15, 1944, he was a son of Gladys Turner Lott and Johnnie James Lott. Mr. Lott was a graduate of Metter High School, class of 1962, and later graduated Magna Cum Laude...

Myrtice P. Lancaster, 97, of Box Springs, Ga., passed away on Wednesday, August 1, 2018, at her residence. A graveside funeral service was held Saturday, August 4, 2018, at Bethel United Methodist Church Cemetery with Rev. Joy Wilson officiating. Mrs. Lancaster was born November 17, 1920, in Abbeville, Ala., to David and Laura Gilbert Parker. She was a dedicated pastor’s wife and all of her adult life was spent serving The United Methodist Church alongside her husband, Rev. Clyde Lancaster, who...

Reverend Dale Hughes Thornton died unexpectedly at his home in Hinesville, Georgia on July 6, 2018. Dale is survived by his wife and best friend, Marlene Nettles Thornton. Reverend Thornton was born on December 25, 1954, at Shaw Air Force Base in Sumter, SC. He grew up in Savannah and graduated from Armstrong State College in 1976 with a BS in Music education and a BA in Music Performance specializing in organ. He received a Master of Divinity degree from Candler School of Theology at Emory ...


Rev. George Washington Herndon, 89, of Brunswick, Georgia, died at Hospice of the Golden Isles on June 15, 2018. He was born July 17, 1928 in Douglas, Georgia.  He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Cora Anthony Herndon; his children, Clyde Wesley (Wes) Herndon and Margaret Louise (Marti) Herndon; his grandson, James Clark Herndon; his sister, Annette Herndon Jenkins; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Clyde and Nettie Herndon, and his brother, Thomas C. Herndon....

Services for Reverend Griffin Edward Thompson, 91, were held Monday, May 7, 2018, at Deepstep United Methodist Church. Interment followed at Washington County Memorial Gardens in Sandersville. Dr. Stan Littleton, Rev. Larry Giles, Rev. Chad Watkins and Rev. Jason McClendon officiated. Rev. Thompson was born November 15, 1926. A native of Wilkinson County, he attended Georgia Southern College where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Education. He later received his Master’s Degree in Education ...

Rev. Dr. Franklin Johnny Terry, 85, passed away Wednesday, March 28, 2018. A Celebration of his Life will be held at 11:00 AM Wednesday, April 4, 2018, at Riverside United Methodist Church. Burial will be private in Macon Memorial Park Cemetery for family only. Rev. Chip Strickland, Rev. Lynn Martin, Dr. Laudis H. “Rick” Lanford, Rev. Steve Waldorf, and Bishop R. Lawson Bryan will officiate. The family will greet friends beginning at 10:00 AM in the church gathering space. Dr. Terry was born in...

Mr. Franklin O’Neal, age 75, of Cedar Crossing, died Thursday, March 8, 2018, at his home, after an extended illness. He was a lifelong resident of Toombs County, and worked as supervisor for General Communications for many years. He was a member of the Hardens Chapel United Methodist Church. He was preceded in death by his wife, Hilda H. O’Neal in 2008; parents, William Forrest O’Neal and Hazel Alexander O’Neal; and a sister, Opal O’Neal. Mr. O’Neal is survived by two sons, Greg O’Neal and ...

Rev. Dr. Don W. Northrip, age 86, died early Sunday morning, March 11, 2018, at The Gardens at Southern Manor in Statesboro. He was born to Rev. Dwight O. Northrip and Dorris Morgan Northrip in Oklahoma City Sept. 9, 1931, and lived all over the Midwest and Georgia before moving to Newington, Georgia in 1995. Rev. Northrip studied at Oklahoma Baptist University, University of Oklahoma, University of Missouri, University of Munich, and Candler School of Theology at Emory University. He served ...

Rev. James Emlon Houseal, 87, of Moultrie, Ga., died Friday, March 9, 2018, at Colquitt Regional Medical Center. Funeral services were held Tuesday, March 13, 2018, at Cobb Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Jimmy Voyles and the Rev. Dan Robinson officiating. Interment, with military honors, followed in Cobb Suncrest Memorial Gardens. Casketbearers were Scott DeMott, Roy Reeves, Dr. Randy Benner, Lawton Matthews, Shannon Ritchie, Rev. Walter Powell, Dr. Jim Allen, Rev. Wayne Mitchell, Larry Slightom...

The Reverend Buford “Beau” Taylor, age 73, entered into heaven’s rest on Friday, Feb. 23, 2018, following an extended hospitalization at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla. Reverend Taylor was affectionately known to many as “Brother Beau,” especially his parishioners. Brother Beau was born May 21, 1944, in Panama City, Fla., the son of the late Joe Alexander Taylor Sr. and the late Annie Belle Taylor. He was devoted to his Lord and as a loving husband of 56 years to his wife, Roberta Taylor. He ...

Mrs. Katherine Whaley Bird, age 96, passed away peacefully Monday, February 12, surrounded by her loving family. The Chatham County native moved to Stilson with her family as a child and attended Stilson School. She and her family later moved to Statesboro, where she graduated from The Lab School at Georgia Teacher’s College. She was a member of Pittman Park United Methodist Church, and previously a member of Langston United Methodist Church. Katherine was active in the Senior Center at the ...

Eulalie Massee Woeltjen, 78, of Fitzgerald, Georgia, died Wednesday, January 10, 2018, at Tift Regional Medical Center in Tifton, Georgia.  Services were held Sunday, January 14, 2018, at Central United Methodist Church, Fitzgerald, Georgia, with the Rev. Jim McLendon, the Rev. B.J. Funk, and the Rev. Dr. Richard Wright officiating.  Mrs. Woeltjen was born April 27, 1939, in Ben Hill County to the late Marion Howard “Duke,” Jr. and Eulalie Dorminy Massee. She graduated from Fitzgerald High ...

Reverend Charles L. Dennis passed away Tuesday morning, January 16, 2018, at his residence. A celebration of the life of Rev. Dennis was held Friday, Jan. 19, 2018, at Friendship United Methodist Church (Donalsonville) with Rev. Norman Dunlap of Columbus, Rev. Kirk Loyless of Mineral Bluff, Rev. Garth Duke-Barton of Donalsonville, and Rev. James Scarborough of Donalsonville officiating. Interment followed in Friendship Memorial Gardens.  Charles Dennis was born in Berlin, Maryland on December ...

Reverend Dr. John Daniel “Dr. Dan” Williamson, 75, of Sylvester, Ga., passed away on December 21, 2017, surrounded by loved ones.  Services were held Saturday, Dec. 30, 2017, at Pinson Memorial United Methodist Church in Sylvester.  Dr. Dan was born in West Point, Georgia, to Daniel Alan (Mr. Pete) and Ethel (Anderson) Williamson on October 15, 1942. He was called to preach in high school where he preached in the Baptist churches around West Point as he sought to follow God's call. He met his ...

Reverend Robert Kea, age 88, of Soperton passed away Monday, December 18, 2017. Reverend Kea was born in Adrian and was preceded in death by his parents, Nelson and Mattie Flanders Kea and 12 brothers and sisters. He was a graduate of Trevecca College in Nashville, Tenn. He was a retired United Methodist Minister, having served churches throughout the southeast for more than 50 years. In 1980 he founded the Christian Family Center, a Bible-based drug and alcohol rehabilitation center for men. ...

William Homer “Billy” McCoy, 75, of Moultrie, GA, died Monday, Nov. 27, 2017, at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. Services were held Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2017, at Cobb Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Stephen Grantham and the Rev. Robert McCoy, Jr. officiating. Born Nov. 1, 1942, in Waycross, he was the son of the late John F. McCoy, Sr. and Margaret Brasington McCoy Dethman. Mr. McCoy was a United States Army veteran and retired from Newton County as a school teacher. He was the preacher at Lenox ...

Funeral services for Rev. William Benjamin Dowdy of Cordele were held Friday, November 17, 2017, in the chapel of Rainey Family Funeral Services. A committal service followed in Midway Church Cemetery.  Benny, as he was affectionately known, passed away Tuesday, November 14, 2017, at his residence. He was born in Cordele and was the son of the late Tarlton Dowdy and Emma Statham Dowdy. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Arlette Wheeler, and a granddaughter, Alicia Stewart. A retired ...

Emily Elizabeth Britton Parker, 92, of Macon, Georgia, went to her eternal home early Thursday morning, November 2, 2017, at McKendree Village in Hermitage, Tennessee. Emily was married to Pledger W. Parker, a retired United Methodist minister and member of the South Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church. They were married for 67 years prior to his death in 2014. Emily was born on June 21, 1925, to Charles and Eleanor Britton, Jr., in Atlanta, Georgia. She was preceded in death by ...

Mrs. Esther Elizabeth Williams Boggs, age 73, of George Williams Road, Louisville, died Thursday morning, October 26, 2017, at her residence. Funeral services were held Monday, October 30, 2017, in the Louisville United Methodist Church with Rev. David Boggs and Rev. Peter Vermeulen officiating. Burial followed in the Burke Memorial Gardens, Waynesboro, GA. Pallbearers were Larry Rhodes, Joe Cheeks, Roger Burge, Chip Evans, Bill Hattaway and Chris Perry. Honorary pallbearers were the pastors of...

Rev. Dr. William R. (Billy) Key died on Aug. 27, 2017. He is survived by his wife, Mildred (Sunshine) Key and their five children, Brenda Adams (Don) of Dublin, Danny Key (Kris) of Augusta, Todd Key (Janice) of Barney, Scott Key of Dublin, and Betsy Moran (Keith) of Dublin. Also surviving are 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Billy is survived by his brother, Rev. Dr. Jack Key of Dublin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Morris Denton Key and Bertha Leila Key of Adrian; his ...

Reverend Helen Berenthien, 86, of Columbus, died Friday, Aug. 25, 2017, at her home. A memorial service was held September 2, 2017, at St. Luke United Methodist Church with Rev. Robert Beckum officiating. Rev. Berenthien was born Sept. 3, 1930, in Savannah, daughter of the late Theodor Christian Berenthien and Marian Stubbs Berenthien. She graduated from A.L. Miller High School in Macon in 1948 where she was valedictorian. Rev. Berenthien graduated from Del Mar Junior College in Corpus ...

The Rev. C. Mike Benson, 62, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 9, after a long battle with cancer. A native of Forsyth, Ga., and a graduate of Mercer University, Rev. Benson worked as a civil servant at Robins Air Logistics Center in Warner Robins before entering seminary at Candler School of Theology, Emory University, in Atlanta. He was ordained as a deacon in The United Methodist Church in 1993, received his Master of Theology degree in 1994, and was ordained an elder in 1997. Throughout his ...

Emmie Clarice Atkins Robertson, 91, of St. Simons Island, Ga. and formerly of Valdosta, died Wednesday, July 12, 2017, at Langdale Hospice House. She was born in Cuthbert, Ga. on Sept. 25, 1925, to the late Clarence and Emmie Thomas Atkins. Mrs. Robertson was a member of the Wesley United Methodist Church at Frederica on St. Simons Island. Clarice Robertson’s whole life was that of dedication to others. She was born into a Methodist family in Cuthbert. Educated in two Methodist colleges, Andrew...

The Rev. Dr. G. Ross Freeman, age 93, of Conyers, died Monday, July 3, 2017, at The Magnolias assisted living facility following an extended illness. A Service of Committal for the family was held on Friday, July 7. The Reverend Randall Smith and Pastor Stephen Posey, Jr. officiated. Pallbearers were the grandsons. A Memorial Service followed at Statesboro First United Methodist Church with the Reverend Jimmy Cason officiating. Dr. Freeman was born in Stillmore to Lester and Ollie Ross Freeman....

Rev. Mabel Waye, 71, of Woodbine (Kinlaw community) passed away peacefully on Friday, May 5, 2017, at Hospice of the Golden Isles in Brunswick. Rev. Waye was born May 13, 1946, to Willie and Ruthie Walthour, who both preceded her in death. She was married to Napolean Waye Sr., who also preceded her in death. Rev. Waye attended the public schools in Yulee, Fla. She served for many years at Carnegie United Methodist Church as a Sunday school teacher and president of the choir. Later, she became ...

Joel Bennett Avera, 56, entered into eternal rest, joining his heavenly father on Monday April 17, 2017. A celebration of Joel’s life was held Thursday April 20, 2017, at Corinth United Methodist Church. Interment was in the church cemetery. Pallbearers were Wesley Croley, Wally Croley, Wade Croley, Ric Croley, D.J. Croley, and Jonathan Wright. Born in Atlanta, Ga., to the late Bennett and Shirley Avera of Wrens, Ga., Joel was an engineer draftsman for over 40 years. His love for the Lord ...