Bruce Stephen Wolfson, 69, of Baxley, passed away Friday, August 23, 2019, at his residence.
Mr. Wolfson was born August 7, 1950, in Savannah, to the late Morris Wolfson and the late Evelyn Beecher Wolfson. He was retired from Southern Nuclear at Plant Hatch as an electrical maintenance supervisor. Mr. Wolfson was a member of the Baxley Church of God.
Survivors include his wife, Carolyn Perry Wolfson of Baxley, daughter and son-in-law, Krystal and David Price of Baxley; son and daughter-in-law, Stephen and Lisa Wolfson of Baxley; sister and brother-in-law, Lynn and Dennis Edelson of Encino, California; three grandchildren, Mattie Wolfson, Caroline Price and Mary Kate Price.
Funeral services were held August 27, at the Baxley Church of God. The Rev. Lamar Lee, Rev. David Price, Rev. Scott Hatten and Rev. Michael Beecher officiated.
Interment followed in the Zion Church of God Cemetery.
Active pallbearers were Ryan Perry, Bryan Perry, Jeremy Wiggins, Shawn Murphy, Michael Paul Rainwater and Marc Johnson. Honorary pallbearers were Jerry Hallman, Jeremy Hallman, Joey Hiers, the Sanctuary Sunday School class of the Baxley Church of God, past and present employees of Plant Hatch Maintenance Shop and Plant Hatch retirees.
Musical selections were rendered by Rev. Lamar Lee and Javan Anderson.
Remembrances may be made to the Baxley Church of God Building Fund (P.O. Box 900 Baxley, GA 31515).
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
Obituaries
HERCULES WILLIAMS, JR.
Hercules Williams, Jr., 58 formerly of the Blarney Community, passed away August 17, 2019 in Atlanta.
Mr. Williams was born January 12, 1961 in Norwich, Connecticut. He was preceded in death by his father, Hercules Williams, Sr., his mother, Dorothy Nails Davis, and a brother, James A. Nails.
Survivors include: his daughter, Valiance Hines; step-father, Rev. Willie F. Davis; two sisters, Shyretta Williams Montcrease, and Cherida Williams Byrd; two brothers, Melvin Williams, and Timothy Williams; a special auntie, Tommie Nails Jones; and longtime friend Jimmy Kirkwood. A host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends also survive.
A memorial service will be held Friday, September 6, at 5:00 p.m. in the chapel of Baxley Funeral Home. Please join the family immediately after for a Dutch repast at Village Pizza Baxley.
Baxley Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Williams was born January 12, 1961 in Norwich, Connecticut. He was preceded in death by his father, Hercules Williams, Sr., his mother, Dorothy Nails Davis, and a brother, James A. Nails.
Survivors include: his daughter, Valiance Hines; step-father, Rev. Willie F. Davis; two sisters, Shyretta Williams Montcrease, and Cherida Williams Byrd; two brothers, Melvin Williams, and Timothy Williams; a special auntie, Tommie Nails Jones; and longtime friend Jimmy Kirkwood. A host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends also survive.
A memorial service will be held Friday, September 6, at 5:00 p.m. in the chapel of Baxley Funeral Home. Please join the family immediately after for a Dutch repast at Village Pizza Baxley.
Baxley Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
CHARLES MILES WILLIAMS, SR.
Charles Miles Williams, Sr., passed away Sunday, August 25, 2019, at Spalding Regional Hospital at the age of 84. He was born in Baxley to Claude and Jennie Williams, who have both preceded him in death.
Charles was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, and friend to many. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, farming, and vegetable gardening. He enjoyed his travels, which took him all over the world. As a member of Zion Baptist Church, he was a long time deacon and a member of the Outreacher Sunday School Class. Charles was involved with two missions with the Stone Mountain Baptist Association, Disaster Relief and Bold Mission Builders. After he retired the second time, he continued to show up for work. His strong work ethic and caring for others was a big part of who he was. He will be sorely missed.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his first wife Katrenia Williams, brother, Buck Williams and sisters, Velma Shurr, Fannie Anderson, and Jimmi Peacock.
He is survived by his wife Bettie Williams of Covington; sons, Chuck Williams and Bob Rose of Covington, Jeff and Kim Williams of Covington; daughters, Pam and Mike Lyles of Jenkinsburg, Connie and Tommy Nowell of Jonesboro; granddaughter, Kristi Williams of Covington; grandson, Jonathan Brennan of Norfolk, VA; several other grandchildren and great grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Violet Williams of Baxley.
Funeral Services for Mr. Williams were held August 28, at Zion Baptist Church with Dr. Lane Collins, Rev. Joel Brown and Rev. Reese Sanders officiating. The body lay in state one hour prior to the service. Interment followed at Zion Baptist Church Cemetery. The family received friends at Wheeler Funeral and Cremation Services.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Gideons at www.gideons.org/donate. Condolences may be made at www.wheelerfuneralhome.com.
Charles was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, and friend to many. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, farming, and vegetable gardening. He enjoyed his travels, which took him all over the world. As a member of Zion Baptist Church, he was a long time deacon and a member of the Outreacher Sunday School Class. Charles was involved with two missions with the Stone Mountain Baptist Association, Disaster Relief and Bold Mission Builders. After he retired the second time, he continued to show up for work. His strong work ethic and caring for others was a big part of who he was. He will be sorely missed.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his first wife Katrenia Williams, brother, Buck Williams and sisters, Velma Shurr, Fannie Anderson, and Jimmi Peacock.
He is survived by his wife Bettie Williams of Covington; sons, Chuck Williams and Bob Rose of Covington, Jeff and Kim Williams of Covington; daughters, Pam and Mike Lyles of Jenkinsburg, Connie and Tommy Nowell of Jonesboro; granddaughter, Kristi Williams of Covington; grandson, Jonathan Brennan of Norfolk, VA; several other grandchildren and great grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Violet Williams of Baxley.
Funeral Services for Mr. Williams were held August 28, at Zion Baptist Church with Dr. Lane Collins, Rev. Joel Brown and Rev. Reese Sanders officiating. The body lay in state one hour prior to the service. Interment followed at Zion Baptist Church Cemetery. The family received friends at Wheeler Funeral and Cremation Services.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Gideons at www.gideons.org/donate. Condolences may be made at www.wheelerfuneralhome.com.
VICKERS MEAD
Mr. Vickers Mead, 80, of Hazlehurst, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, August 25, 2019, at his residence.
Mr. Mead was born December 23, 1938, in Jeff Davis County, to the late Harry Mead and the late Oneda Carter Mead. He was a retired truck driver with Hazlehurst Mills and a charter member of Altamaha Baptist Church of Baxley. He was preceded in death by his sister, Laverne Mead, and his grandson, Shawn Stone.
Mr. Mead loved the country life of raising cows, hunting, fishing, and feeling the good earth beneath his bare feet. He loved laughter, mischief, and fellowship over a good meal.
He loved Thanksgiving and inviting friends who didn’t have other plans to eat with his family. He loved portraying Santa at Christmas especially for the Brewer Family. He loved projects that involved helping anyone in need. However, his greatest love was for his Savior, family, farm, friends, neighbors and friends yet to be made.
He looked forward to being in Heaven with the Lord and with all his family and friends. Heaven will now be a little louder and a little livelier with him there.
Survivors include his wife, Patricia Nelson Mead of Hazlehurst; two daughters, Sherry Stone (Kenneth) of Hazlehurst and Vickie Haskin (Ronnie) of Humansville, MO.; grandsons, Justin Stone of Hazlehurst and Dusty Haskin of Pooler, great-grandchildren, Kylee Stone, Kaden Stone and Kaitlin Stone of Cochran and Brianna Stone of Hazlehurst.
Funeral Services were held August 28, in the chapel of Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home with the Rev. Jimmy Selph and Rev. Terry Miles officiating. Interment followed in the Altamaha Baptist Church Cemetery in Baxley.
Honorary pallbearers were all family and friends in attendance. Active pallbearers were Bradley Wooten, Gabe Wooten, Chad Toler, Wayne Miles, Russell Miles and Zack Corbin.
Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.
Mr. Mead was born December 23, 1938, in Jeff Davis County, to the late Harry Mead and the late Oneda Carter Mead. He was a retired truck driver with Hazlehurst Mills and a charter member of Altamaha Baptist Church of Baxley. He was preceded in death by his sister, Laverne Mead, and his grandson, Shawn Stone.
Mr. Mead loved the country life of raising cows, hunting, fishing, and feeling the good earth beneath his bare feet. He loved laughter, mischief, and fellowship over a good meal.
He loved Thanksgiving and inviting friends who didn’t have other plans to eat with his family. He loved portraying Santa at Christmas especially for the Brewer Family. He loved projects that involved helping anyone in need. However, his greatest love was for his Savior, family, farm, friends, neighbors and friends yet to be made.
He looked forward to being in Heaven with the Lord and with all his family and friends. Heaven will now be a little louder and a little livelier with him there.
Survivors include his wife, Patricia Nelson Mead of Hazlehurst; two daughters, Sherry Stone (Kenneth) of Hazlehurst and Vickie Haskin (Ronnie) of Humansville, MO.; grandsons, Justin Stone of Hazlehurst and Dusty Haskin of Pooler, great-grandchildren, Kylee Stone, Kaden Stone and Kaitlin Stone of Cochran and Brianna Stone of Hazlehurst.
Funeral Services were held August 28, in the chapel of Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home with the Rev. Jimmy Selph and Rev. Terry Miles officiating. Interment followed in the Altamaha Baptist Church Cemetery in Baxley.
Honorary pallbearers were all family and friends in attendance. Active pallbearers were Bradley Wooten, Gabe Wooten, Chad Toler, Wayne Miles, Russell Miles and Zack Corbin.
Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.
BILLY LEE GENE FLOYD
Billy Lee Gene Floyd, 76, of Lyons, died Friday, August 23, 2019, at Meadows Regional Hospital in Vidalia.
Mr. Floyd was born May 24, 1943 in Willacoochee to the late Reuben Perry Floyd and the late Annie Dorthea Collins Floyd. He was a retired veteran of the U.S. Army, serving 23 years, with three tours in Vietnam.
Survivors include two daughters, Jennifer Dianne Floyd of Hazlehurst and Valeria Floyd Brown (Randy) of Baxley; two sons, Mickey Floyd (Jeanna) of Baxley and Chris Floyd (Mandy) of Baxley; siblings, Carlene Gorley of Hazlehurst and Robert Floyd of Port Wentworth; grandchildren, Maghan Heath Fuller, Trevor Floyd, Levi Fortner, Marleigh Heath Crawford, Brock Heath and Bryson Heath; several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral Services were held August 27, in the chapel of Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home with his grandson, Levi Fortner and Rev. James A. Williams officiating. Interment followed in the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Glennville, with full military honors.
Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.
Mr. Floyd was born May 24, 1943 in Willacoochee to the late Reuben Perry Floyd and the late Annie Dorthea Collins Floyd. He was a retired veteran of the U.S. Army, serving 23 years, with three tours in Vietnam.
Survivors include two daughters, Jennifer Dianne Floyd of Hazlehurst and Valeria Floyd Brown (Randy) of Baxley; two sons, Mickey Floyd (Jeanna) of Baxley and Chris Floyd (Mandy) of Baxley; siblings, Carlene Gorley of Hazlehurst and Robert Floyd of Port Wentworth; grandchildren, Maghan Heath Fuller, Trevor Floyd, Levi Fortner, Marleigh Heath Crawford, Brock Heath and Bryson Heath; several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral Services were held August 27, in the chapel of Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home with his grandson, Levi Fortner and Rev. James A. Williams officiating. Interment followed in the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Glennville, with full military honors.
Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.
WILLIAM JOE WRIGHT
William Joe Wright was born in Appling County on February 25, 1945 to the late Ernest and Willie Mae Warrick Wright. He departed this life to rest from all his labor on Saturday, August 17, 2019, at Harbor View Health Center in Jesup.
He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter-in-law, Tarica Wright. William was educated at the Appling County Consolidated High School. He was a member of Thankful New Jersey Missionary Baptist Church. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1966 and served through 1968.
His memories will forever by cherished by his devoted wife of 46 years, Dorothy Slay Wright; son, Christopher (Shawna) Wright of Baxley; loving daughter, Dina Wright of Baxley; brother, Lonnie (Catherine) Wright of Baxley; four sisters, Carolyn (Milton) Bell, and Ernestine Jenkins, both of Baxley, Margaret (James Lamar) Wilcox, and Willie Mae (James Lerico) Wilcox, both of Surrency; five grandchildren: Eric, Keyshawn, Makala, Taniya, and Logan; extended grandchildren: Troy, Jayveon, and Avaraysha; three aunts: Gladys Brantley of Philadelphia, Dora Griner and Mary Jackson, both of Springfield, MA; brother-in-law, William Paul Frances of Douglas; sisters-in-law: Delores Moss of Atlanta, Patricia Frances of Douglas, Frances DeShazor of Baxley, and Dorothy (George) Riggs of Waycross; devoted friend, Sampson Brookins of North Carolina; godchildren: Tonya Blash of Miami, Monique Taylor of Virginia Beach, and Paul (Tangela) Williams of Baxley; extended family: Louise (Issiah) Mayers of Brunswick, Ruby Jean Taylor of Valdosta, Willie Mabry of Alma, Rosezina (Clark) Williams, James (Eva) Blash, and Larry (Elaine) Blash, all of Miami. He also leaves to cherish his memory a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and sorrowing friends.
A service was held August 24, at Rachel Missionary Baptist Church in Baxley with Pastor Jamie Terrell Paulk officiating, Minister Zackrus Walton presided, and Pastor Dr. Kendall Bennamon also served. Interment followed in the Old Field Memorial Gardens.
Active pallbearers were Adam Bell, Ennis Bell, Mitchell Bell, Reggie Bell, Tyler Adams, Brad Wilcox, David Slay, Anthony Jenkins, Johnny Jenkins IV, and Jaden Tippens. Honorary pallbearers were Sampson Brookins, Oliver Hall, Lewis Parker, Bill Parker, David Carter, Bruce Durden, Baxley Steel employees, South Georgia Hospice Harbor View Healthcare, Dr. Pumpelly and staff, and Dr. Stern.
Professional services were entrusted to C.M. Brown Funeral Home.
He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter-in-law, Tarica Wright. William was educated at the Appling County Consolidated High School. He was a member of Thankful New Jersey Missionary Baptist Church. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1966 and served through 1968.
His memories will forever by cherished by his devoted wife of 46 years, Dorothy Slay Wright; son, Christopher (Shawna) Wright of Baxley; loving daughter, Dina Wright of Baxley; brother, Lonnie (Catherine) Wright of Baxley; four sisters, Carolyn (Milton) Bell, and Ernestine Jenkins, both of Baxley, Margaret (James Lamar) Wilcox, and Willie Mae (James Lerico) Wilcox, both of Surrency; five grandchildren: Eric, Keyshawn, Makala, Taniya, and Logan; extended grandchildren: Troy, Jayveon, and Avaraysha; three aunts: Gladys Brantley of Philadelphia, Dora Griner and Mary Jackson, both of Springfield, MA; brother-in-law, William Paul Frances of Douglas; sisters-in-law: Delores Moss of Atlanta, Patricia Frances of Douglas, Frances DeShazor of Baxley, and Dorothy (George) Riggs of Waycross; devoted friend, Sampson Brookins of North Carolina; godchildren: Tonya Blash of Miami, Monique Taylor of Virginia Beach, and Paul (Tangela) Williams of Baxley; extended family: Louise (Issiah) Mayers of Brunswick, Ruby Jean Taylor of Valdosta, Willie Mabry of Alma, Rosezina (Clark) Williams, James (Eva) Blash, and Larry (Elaine) Blash, all of Miami. He also leaves to cherish his memory a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and sorrowing friends.
A service was held August 24, at Rachel Missionary Baptist Church in Baxley with Pastor Jamie Terrell Paulk officiating, Minister Zackrus Walton presided, and Pastor Dr. Kendall Bennamon also served. Interment followed in the Old Field Memorial Gardens.
Active pallbearers were Adam Bell, Ennis Bell, Mitchell Bell, Reggie Bell, Tyler Adams, Brad Wilcox, David Slay, Anthony Jenkins, Johnny Jenkins IV, and Jaden Tippens. Honorary pallbearers were Sampson Brookins, Oliver Hall, Lewis Parker, Bill Parker, David Carter, Bruce Durden, Baxley Steel employees, South Georgia Hospice Harbor View Healthcare, Dr. Pumpelly and staff, and Dr. Stern.
Professional services were entrusted to C.M. Brown Funeral Home.
JOE LIGHTSEY
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory announces the funeral services for Mr. Joe Lightsey, 75, who passed away July 15, 2019, at the Bacon County Hospital under the care of Comfort Care Hospice.
He was a native and lifelong resident of Appling County. Mr. Lightsey was a twenty-year veteran with the Appling County Sheriff’s Department serving as a Sherriff’s Deputy for sixteen years and Sherriff for four years. He loved fishing and the river and was a member of the Baxley First Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Senia Pierce Lightsey and a brother, Johnny Lightsey.
Survivors include his wife of 43 years, Charlotte Lightsey of Baxley; four children, Delaine Robson and husband Roy of Camden, AL, Tommy Lightsey and wife Vera of Ladson, SC, Angie Kearney and husband Ashley of Baxley and Shawn Lightsey and wife Jessica of Kathleen; seven grandchildren; six great grandchildren; three brothers, George Lightsey of Baxley, Roger Lightsey and wife Eleanor of Surrency and Richard Lightsey and wife Cindy of Baxley; three sisters, Pearl Turner and husband Ed of Appling County, Verlene Moody and husband Stanley of Baxley and Yommie Taylor and husband Ronnie of Baxley; several nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral services were held July 17, 2019, at the Nobles Funeral Home Chapel with the Reverend Rick Brown officiating. Interment followed in the Omega Cemetery. Visitation was held one hour prior to funeral services at the funeral home.
Active Pallbearers were Brooks Taylor, Jason Moody, Ashley Kearney, Neil Lightsey, Henry Jones and Barry Sharpe. Honorary pallbearers were the Comfort Care Hospice staff, Bacon County Hospital staff and all friends and family in attendance.
Friends and family may sign the online guest book at noblesfh.com.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Mr. Joe Lightsey.
He was a native and lifelong resident of Appling County. Mr. Lightsey was a twenty-year veteran with the Appling County Sheriff’s Department serving as a Sherriff’s Deputy for sixteen years and Sherriff for four years. He loved fishing and the river and was a member of the Baxley First Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Senia Pierce Lightsey and a brother, Johnny Lightsey.
Survivors include his wife of 43 years, Charlotte Lightsey of Baxley; four children, Delaine Robson and husband Roy of Camden, AL, Tommy Lightsey and wife Vera of Ladson, SC, Angie Kearney and husband Ashley of Baxley and Shawn Lightsey and wife Jessica of Kathleen; seven grandchildren; six great grandchildren; three brothers, George Lightsey of Baxley, Roger Lightsey and wife Eleanor of Surrency and Richard Lightsey and wife Cindy of Baxley; three sisters, Pearl Turner and husband Ed of Appling County, Verlene Moody and husband Stanley of Baxley and Yommie Taylor and husband Ronnie of Baxley; several nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral services were held July 17, 2019, at the Nobles Funeral Home Chapel with the Reverend Rick Brown officiating. Interment followed in the Omega Cemetery. Visitation was held one hour prior to funeral services at the funeral home.
Active Pallbearers were Brooks Taylor, Jason Moody, Ashley Kearney, Neil Lightsey, Henry Jones and Barry Sharpe. Honorary pallbearers were the Comfort Care Hospice staff, Bacon County Hospital staff and all friends and family in attendance.
Friends and family may sign the online guest book at noblesfh.com.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Mr. Joe Lightsey.
PHILLIP EASON
Phillip Eason, 64, of Baxley, passed away Sunday, August 18, 2019.
Mr. Eason was born December 1, 1954, in Blackshear to the late Joel Lee Eason and the late Thelma Newsome Eason Taylor.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Eason was preceded in death by a sister, Leona Taylor.
Survivors include his wife, Carol Chancey of Baxley; step-daughter, Debra Skipper of Baxley; step-sons, Lewis Chancey, Pebo Chancey, Justin Chancey and Austin Chancey all of Baxley; sisters and brothers in law, Johnnie Will and Jerry Kessner of Reidsville, Luella Anderson of Baxley, Nellie and John Williams Cohutta and Chris Higgs and fiancé, Jim King of Jacksonville, FL; brothers and sisters in law, Jimmy and Glenda Eason of Edison and Clyde and Teresa Eason of St. Mary’s. Ten step-grandchildren also survive.
Funeral services were held August 21, at the Chapel of Swain Funeral Home with the Rev. Andrew Kersey and Rev. Lester Weldon officiating.
Interment followed in Red Oak Baptist Church Cemetery.
Active Pallbearers were Jason DuBose, Matthew Davis, Wesley Davis, Christopher Davis, Lewis Chancey and Austin Chancey.
Musical selections were rendered by Saved By Grace.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
Mr. Eason was born December 1, 1954, in Blackshear to the late Joel Lee Eason and the late Thelma Newsome Eason Taylor.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Eason was preceded in death by a sister, Leona Taylor.
Survivors include his wife, Carol Chancey of Baxley; step-daughter, Debra Skipper of Baxley; step-sons, Lewis Chancey, Pebo Chancey, Justin Chancey and Austin Chancey all of Baxley; sisters and brothers in law, Johnnie Will and Jerry Kessner of Reidsville, Luella Anderson of Baxley, Nellie and John Williams Cohutta and Chris Higgs and fiancé, Jim King of Jacksonville, FL; brothers and sisters in law, Jimmy and Glenda Eason of Edison and Clyde and Teresa Eason of St. Mary’s. Ten step-grandchildren also survive.
Funeral services were held August 21, at the Chapel of Swain Funeral Home with the Rev. Andrew Kersey and Rev. Lester Weldon officiating.
Interment followed in Red Oak Baptist Church Cemetery.
Active Pallbearers were Jason DuBose, Matthew Davis, Wesley Davis, Christopher Davis, Lewis Chancey and Austin Chancey.
Musical selections were rendered by Saved By Grace.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
TERESA ANN TESTON COPELAND
Teresa Ann Teston Copeland, 56, of Baxley, died Sunday, August 18, 2019, in Macon.
She was born January 22, 1963, in Hollywood, Florida to the late Robert Paige and the late Julia Howell Robertson. She was the Secretary for Copeland Mobile Home Movers.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Wayne Paige, sisters, Shelia Corbin and Mae Robertson and a step-daughter, Katrina Copeland Wood.
Survivors include her husband, Jerry Copeland of Baxley; daughters and sons in law, Julia Marie and Andy Tomberlin, Katrina Nicole and Brandon Beasley and step-daughters, Crystal Copeland and Sheena and Joshua Altman all of Baxley; son and daughter in law, Wesley and Kenzie Evans of Baxley, step-sons, Allen and Tammy Copeland of Brunswick, Gary and Jessica Covington and Kelly and Becky Teston all of Baxley; sisters, Shelby Gay, Shirley Corbin, Regina Seaton all of Chipley, Fl and Gladys Vaughn of Blackshear; brothers, David Paige of Orlando, FL and Kenneth Robertson of Marianna, FL. Grandchildren, Kaitlyn Vaughn, Tyler Vaughn, Trenity Guerra, Rianna Evans, Erin Guerra, Bradley Evans, Emily Evans, Ryleigh Evans and Anslee Tomberlin also survive.
Funeral services were held August 22, in the Chapel of Swain Funeral Home with the Rev. Rick Brown, Rev. Allen Copeland and Rev. Justin McLellan officiating.
Interment followed in Appling Memorial Gardens.
Active Pallbearers were Brandon Beasley, Andy Tomberlin, Noah Tomberlin, Joshua Altman, Justin Harper, Greg Evans and Gary Covington.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
She was born January 22, 1963, in Hollywood, Florida to the late Robert Paige and the late Julia Howell Robertson. She was the Secretary for Copeland Mobile Home Movers.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Wayne Paige, sisters, Shelia Corbin and Mae Robertson and a step-daughter, Katrina Copeland Wood.
Survivors include her husband, Jerry Copeland of Baxley; daughters and sons in law, Julia Marie and Andy Tomberlin, Katrina Nicole and Brandon Beasley and step-daughters, Crystal Copeland and Sheena and Joshua Altman all of Baxley; son and daughter in law, Wesley and Kenzie Evans of Baxley, step-sons, Allen and Tammy Copeland of Brunswick, Gary and Jessica Covington and Kelly and Becky Teston all of Baxley; sisters, Shelby Gay, Shirley Corbin, Regina Seaton all of Chipley, Fl and Gladys Vaughn of Blackshear; brothers, David Paige of Orlando, FL and Kenneth Robertson of Marianna, FL. Grandchildren, Kaitlyn Vaughn, Tyler Vaughn, Trenity Guerra, Rianna Evans, Erin Guerra, Bradley Evans, Emily Evans, Ryleigh Evans and Anslee Tomberlin also survive.
Funeral services were held August 22, in the Chapel of Swain Funeral Home with the Rev. Rick Brown, Rev. Allen Copeland and Rev. Justin McLellan officiating.
Interment followed in Appling Memorial Gardens.
Active Pallbearers were Brandon Beasley, Andy Tomberlin, Noah Tomberlin, Joshua Altman, Justin Harper, Greg Evans and Gary Covington.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
DIANE VARNADORE ARTHUR
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory announces the funeral services for Mrs. Diane Varnadore Arthur, 67, who passed away Tuesday, August 20, 2019, at Serenity Place Hospice in Dublin. She was a homemaker and attended First Assembly of God in Baxley.
She was preceded in death by her father, James W. Varnadore; three brothers, Jimmy Varnadore, Donnie Varnadore and Michael Varnadore; sister, Stacy Varnadore Atkins.
Survivors include her significant other, Tommy Carter of Baxley; daughter, Angela Diane Hamby and husband Vann of Douglasville; son, John Michael Wayne Arthur of Newnan; four grandchildren, Kelcee Danielle Brooks, Joseph Vann Hamby Jr., Chloe Elizabeth Hamby and Kiera Diane Hamby; three great grandchildren, Ella Anne Diane Brooks, Hunter William Brooks and Wesley Brooks; mother, Ann Varnadore of Baxley; brother, Jerry Varnadore of Hazlehurst; three sisters, Linda Thornton and husband Peter of Bronxville, NY, Judy Black and husband Emmett of Dublin and Cathy Kight and husband Chuck of Sylvania.
Funeral services were held August 23, from the chapel of Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory with the Rev. Ronnie Rentz officiating. Eulogy was given by Mr. Ezra Varnadore, Mrs. Angela Hamby and Mr. Vann Hamby.
Interment followed in the Omega Cemetery.
Visitation was held one hour prior to services on Friday at the funeral home chapel.
Active Pallbearers were Vann Hamby, Jayman Varnadore, Ricky Varnadore, Roger Varnadore, Will Varnadore and Reggie Varnadore.
Friends and family may sign the online guest book at noblesfh.com.
In lieu of flowers the family ask for donations be made to the American Cancer Society at cancer.org.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Mrs. Diane Varnadore Arthur.
She was preceded in death by her father, James W. Varnadore; three brothers, Jimmy Varnadore, Donnie Varnadore and Michael Varnadore; sister, Stacy Varnadore Atkins.
Survivors include her significant other, Tommy Carter of Baxley; daughter, Angela Diane Hamby and husband Vann of Douglasville; son, John Michael Wayne Arthur of Newnan; four grandchildren, Kelcee Danielle Brooks, Joseph Vann Hamby Jr., Chloe Elizabeth Hamby and Kiera Diane Hamby; three great grandchildren, Ella Anne Diane Brooks, Hunter William Brooks and Wesley Brooks; mother, Ann Varnadore of Baxley; brother, Jerry Varnadore of Hazlehurst; three sisters, Linda Thornton and husband Peter of Bronxville, NY, Judy Black and husband Emmett of Dublin and Cathy Kight and husband Chuck of Sylvania.
Funeral services were held August 23, from the chapel of Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory with the Rev. Ronnie Rentz officiating. Eulogy was given by Mr. Ezra Varnadore, Mrs. Angela Hamby and Mr. Vann Hamby.
Interment followed in the Omega Cemetery.
Visitation was held one hour prior to services on Friday at the funeral home chapel.
Active Pallbearers were Vann Hamby, Jayman Varnadore, Ricky Varnadore, Roger Varnadore, Will Varnadore and Reggie Varnadore.
Friends and family may sign the online guest book at noblesfh.com.
In lieu of flowers the family ask for donations be made to the American Cancer Society at cancer.org.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Mrs. Diane Varnadore Arthur.
ROSE FOSSETT
Rose Fossett, 87, of Alma, died peacefully in her sleep early Friday, August 9, 2019. She was born in Appling County, the second child of the late Gertrude Crosby Kesler and Hoyt Kesler.
She was also preceded in death by her husband Ranville Johnson Fossett; infant daughter, Sherrie Lynn Fossett; sister, Myrna Faye Taylor; brothers-in-law, Ernest Clifton and Grady Mobley; sisters-in-law, Pansy Mobley and Dorothy Lee Kesler and nephews, Michael Clifton and Jay Mobley.
She is survived by her daughter, Susan Waller and her husband Jack Waller of Alma; One sister, Juanita Clifton of Buford, and a brother, LaVelle Kesler of Florida; niece, Julia Nell Shaw (Wally) of Perry; three nephews, Robert Clifton of Buford, Derwin Taylor of Valdosta and Greg Kesler of Florida. She is also survived by three step-grandchildren, Leah Fambrough (Michael), Justin Waller and Elisha Cawhern (Scott), all of the Atlanta area.
She was a member of Baxley First Baptist Church.
A graveside service was held August 12, at Ten Mile Baptist Church in Baxley. The reverend Joe Ferguson will officiate.
Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
She was also preceded in death by her husband Ranville Johnson Fossett; infant daughter, Sherrie Lynn Fossett; sister, Myrna Faye Taylor; brothers-in-law, Ernest Clifton and Grady Mobley; sisters-in-law, Pansy Mobley and Dorothy Lee Kesler and nephews, Michael Clifton and Jay Mobley.
She is survived by her daughter, Susan Waller and her husband Jack Waller of Alma; One sister, Juanita Clifton of Buford, and a brother, LaVelle Kesler of Florida; niece, Julia Nell Shaw (Wally) of Perry; three nephews, Robert Clifton of Buford, Derwin Taylor of Valdosta and Greg Kesler of Florida. She is also survived by three step-grandchildren, Leah Fambrough (Michael), Justin Waller and Elisha Cawhern (Scott), all of the Atlanta area.
She was a member of Baxley First Baptist Church.
A graveside service was held August 12, at Ten Mile Baptist Church in Baxley. The reverend Joe Ferguson will officiate.
Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
MELISSA WESTBERRY CRAVEN
Melissa Westberry Craven, 35, of Baxley passed away Tuesday, August 6, 2019.
Mrs. Craven was born July 30, 1984, in Waycross and was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her son, Johnathon Isaac Swain.
Survivors include her husband, Spencer Craven of Baxley; daughters, Rose Irene Rebecca Craven and Jolene Ruby Craven both of Baxley; sons, Spencer Joshua Craven of Baxley, Albert Christopher Hager of Augusta, and Shane Phillips Sweat of Waycross; her mother Wanda J. Westberry and father, Dennis Warren Strickland both of Blackshear; sisters, Tonya Westberry of Blackshear, Kelly Steedley of Waycross, and Sherry Mae Westberry of Blackshear; and brothers, Patrick Westberry of Blackshear and Tommy Westberry, Jr. of Alma. One grandchild, Christopher Jase Hager, also survives.
Funeral services were held Saturday, August 10, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. at the Chapel of Swain Funeral Home with Rev. Jacob Denison and Rev. Josh Gardner officiating. Interment followed in Midway Baptist Church Cemetery.
Active Pallbearers were Cody Lynn, Dexter Lynn, Bryan, Tommy Westberry Chase McQuaig, Bennett Craven, Jr., and Larry Doran. Musical selections were rendered by Christopher Clark.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
Mrs. Craven was born July 30, 1984, in Waycross and was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her son, Johnathon Isaac Swain.
Survivors include her husband, Spencer Craven of Baxley; daughters, Rose Irene Rebecca Craven and Jolene Ruby Craven both of Baxley; sons, Spencer Joshua Craven of Baxley, Albert Christopher Hager of Augusta, and Shane Phillips Sweat of Waycross; her mother Wanda J. Westberry and father, Dennis Warren Strickland both of Blackshear; sisters, Tonya Westberry of Blackshear, Kelly Steedley of Waycross, and Sherry Mae Westberry of Blackshear; and brothers, Patrick Westberry of Blackshear and Tommy Westberry, Jr. of Alma. One grandchild, Christopher Jase Hager, also survives.
Funeral services were held Saturday, August 10, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. at the Chapel of Swain Funeral Home with Rev. Jacob Denison and Rev. Josh Gardner officiating. Interment followed in Midway Baptist Church Cemetery.
Active Pallbearers were Cody Lynn, Dexter Lynn, Bryan, Tommy Westberry Chase McQuaig, Bennett Craven, Jr., and Larry Doran. Musical selections were rendered by Christopher Clark.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
MARIE COURSON MURRAY
Marie Courson Murray of Blacksburg, SC passed away at the age of 95 on July 30, 2019, at Cherokee Medical Center in Gaffney, SC. She was the widow of Louie Murray. She was born in Baxley, the daughter of Archie Courson and Laura Smith Courson.
She is survived by her three children Tommy O'Berry, Billy O'Berry (Patricia) and Brenda Doan (Bruce), along with eight grandchildren, many great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.
She will be remembered for her southern cooking, country wisdom, endless laughter, determined strength and great love for her family.
A graveside service was held on August 2, at Midway Baptist Church cemetery in Baxley.
A special thank you to International Mortuary Shipping, LLC for their kindness and assistance.
She is survived by her three children Tommy O'Berry, Billy O'Berry (Patricia) and Brenda Doan (Bruce), along with eight grandchildren, many great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.
She will be remembered for her southern cooking, country wisdom, endless laughter, determined strength and great love for her family.
A graveside service was held on August 2, at Midway Baptist Church cemetery in Baxley.
A special thank you to International Mortuary Shipping, LLC for their kindness and assistance.
JANET LEGGETT STEWART
Janet Leggett Stewart, 61, of Baxley, died Wednesday, July 17, 2019, at her residence under the care of Regency Southern Care Hospice.
Mrs. Stewart was born February 16, 1958, in Jacksonville, Florida. She was a member of Hopewell United Methodist Church and was a member of the Line Dance Fever. She was the Administrative Assistant for J. Hiers Company and she was preceded in death by her father, William “Bill” L. Leggett and a nephew, Austin Baucom.
Survivors include her husband, Andy Stewart of Waynesboro; a daughter and son in law, Eva K. and Shannon Hutcherson of Baxley; granddaughter, Mary Elizabeth Hutcherson of Baxley; step-daughter and step-son in law, Gena and Bryan McKinnon of Waynesboro; step-son, Kevin Lee Stewart of Waynesboro; step- grandchildren, Wyatt McKinnon, Alden Stewart, Claire Stewart and Natalie Stewart; mother, Mary Eleanor Leggett of Baxley; sisters and brother in law, Barbara and Ricky Stewart of Fort Worth, TX and Judy Lanier of Blairsville; brother, Billy Leggett of Blairsville; nieces, Nancy Banning of Hendersonville, TN, Natalie (Eric) Tenoso of Jacksonville, FL and a nephew, Wes (Ashley) Baucom of Fort Worth, TX; a great niece Elin Tenoso and great nephews Ben and Hudson Baucom also survive.
Funeral services were held Saturday, July 20, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. at Hopewell United Methodist Church with the Rev. Bobby Gale and Rev. Ron Ross officiating and a eulogy by Joey Hiers. Interment followed in Hopewell United Methodist Church Cemetery.
Active pallbearers were Jack Banning, Lanier Kesler, Eric Hutcherson, Wes Baucom, Joey Hiers and Charlene Price.
Honorary pallbearers were Keith Price, Chris and Jeni Reynolds, Eva Hickman, Wesley Griffin, George Griffin, Diane Hallman, Joy Shadron, Line Dance Fever, Hiers and GA Asphalt employees, Michelle Carter and Harris Ertzberger.
Musical selections were rendered by Floyd Hunter, Heather Hale and Peggy McDaniel.
Remembrances may be made to Regency Southern Care Hospice (2311 E. 1st Ste B Vidalia, Ga. 30474.)
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
Mrs. Stewart was born February 16, 1958, in Jacksonville, Florida. She was a member of Hopewell United Methodist Church and was a member of the Line Dance Fever. She was the Administrative Assistant for J. Hiers Company and she was preceded in death by her father, William “Bill” L. Leggett and a nephew, Austin Baucom.
Survivors include her husband, Andy Stewart of Waynesboro; a daughter and son in law, Eva K. and Shannon Hutcherson of Baxley; granddaughter, Mary Elizabeth Hutcherson of Baxley; step-daughter and step-son in law, Gena and Bryan McKinnon of Waynesboro; step-son, Kevin Lee Stewart of Waynesboro; step- grandchildren, Wyatt McKinnon, Alden Stewart, Claire Stewart and Natalie Stewart; mother, Mary Eleanor Leggett of Baxley; sisters and brother in law, Barbara and Ricky Stewart of Fort Worth, TX and Judy Lanier of Blairsville; brother, Billy Leggett of Blairsville; nieces, Nancy Banning of Hendersonville, TN, Natalie (Eric) Tenoso of Jacksonville, FL and a nephew, Wes (Ashley) Baucom of Fort Worth, TX; a great niece Elin Tenoso and great nephews Ben and Hudson Baucom also survive.
Funeral services were held Saturday, July 20, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. at Hopewell United Methodist Church with the Rev. Bobby Gale and Rev. Ron Ross officiating and a eulogy by Joey Hiers. Interment followed in Hopewell United Methodist Church Cemetery.
Active pallbearers were Jack Banning, Lanier Kesler, Eric Hutcherson, Wes Baucom, Joey Hiers and Charlene Price.
Honorary pallbearers were Keith Price, Chris and Jeni Reynolds, Eva Hickman, Wesley Griffin, George Griffin, Diane Hallman, Joy Shadron, Line Dance Fever, Hiers and GA Asphalt employees, Michelle Carter and Harris Ertzberger.
Musical selections were rendered by Floyd Hunter, Heather Hale and Peggy McDaniel.
Remembrances may be made to Regency Southern Care Hospice (2311 E. 1st Ste B Vidalia, Ga. 30474.)
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
Dennis Lynn Morris Sr.
Dennis L. “Bootsie” Morris Sr., 76, of Wilson, NC, passed away Saturday, July 13, 2019, after a lengthy illness. He was born September 24, 1942, in Wilson to the late Gretchen and Joseph Henry Morris, Sr.
There will be a graveside memorial service at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 27, at Ten Mile Creek Baptist Church in Baxley.
Bootsie is survived by his wife, Rena’ Carter Morris; sons, Dennis L. “Dee” Morris Jr of Wilson, NC, Paxton Morris and wife Hillary, Jason Morris and wife Patricia of Atlanta; grandchildren, Jack and Julia Morris of Atlanta; his four-legged buddy, “Butch”; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Marlo Morris; parents; sister, Glenda Poythress; and his brothers, Joseph “Joe” Morris Jr. and Robert Lee “Bobby” Morris.
There will be a graveside memorial service at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 27, at Ten Mile Creek Baptist Church in Baxley.
Bootsie is survived by his wife, Rena’ Carter Morris; sons, Dennis L. “Dee” Morris Jr of Wilson, NC, Paxton Morris and wife Hillary, Jason Morris and wife Patricia of Atlanta; grandchildren, Jack and Julia Morris of Atlanta; his four-legged buddy, “Butch”; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Marlo Morris; parents; sister, Glenda Poythress; and his brothers, Joseph “Joe” Morris Jr. and Robert Lee “Bobby” Morris.
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