Jerry Oliver Bange was born to Arthur J. and Elsa Lucille Oliver Bange on Friday, October 13, 1933, in Saint Louis Missouri.
Jerry served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. Following active duty, he attended the University of Arizona and graduated in 1959.
Jerry served in several capacities as a public servant for the purpose of economic development in Georgia.
Jerry operated a small business in North Carolina where he lived before spending time with family in Atlanta and making a new home in Denton, Texas. The Lord called him home on Monday, February 3, 2020.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his wives, Marjorie Elizabeth (Betty), Irene Joyce Faulkner, Isabella Allison Britton; his great grandson Isaiah Blackwood; and great granddaughter Stephanie Steinhardt Halvorson.
He is survived by his children Debra Kleinhans, Robert and Patti Bange, Judith and Harry Michalewicz, Steven and Mark Bange, and William and Kimberly Bange; 17 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild.
A Memorial service and family time will be held at the Lions Club Building in Baxley on Sunday, February 23, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Obituaries
HORACE LEE SPELL
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory announces the funeral services for Mr. Horace Lee Spell, 78, who passed away Saturday, February 15, 2020 at Memorial Health University in Savannah. Mr. Spell was a native and lifelong resident of Appling County; a forty-five-year retiree of Bax-Steel, a veteran of the Georgia National Guard and a member of the Graham Church of God.
He was preceded in death by a son, Derrick Tyler Spell; parents, Lawton and Hazel Spell and a brother, Melton Spell.
Surviving is his wife of twenty-eight years, Carole Lee Spell of Baxley; children, Brenda and husband Ray Powell of Hazlehurst, Keith and wife Becky Spell of Jesup, Kenneth and wife Edna Lee of Brandon, Mississippi, Selina and husband Lewis Spell and Susan and husband Robby Courson, both of Baxley; eleven grandchildren, Wendy Brewer, Taylor Purvis, Nicholas Spell, Grayson Spell, Hunter Landon, Hannah Courson, Will Courson, Josh Spell, Camron Spell, Jennifer Hester and Chrissy Lee; seven great-grandchildren; two brothers, Lewis and wife Selina Spell and Wendell and wife Debbie Spell, both of Baxley; and several nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, February 18, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. from the chapel of Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory with the Reverend Don Dixon and the Reverend Richard Lewis officiating.
Interment followed in the Zoar Cemetery.
Visitation was held one hour prior to the funeral service on Tuesday at the funeral home Chapel.
Active pallbearers were Cole Brewer, Karson Galbreath, Randy Spell, Dustin Purvis, Will Courson and Robby Courson.
Honorary Pallbearers were the members of the Graham Church of God and all family and friends in attendance.
The family assembled at the home of Wendell and Debbie Spell at 52 Willard Street in Baxley.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Mr. Horace Lee Spell.
He was preceded in death by a son, Derrick Tyler Spell; parents, Lawton and Hazel Spell and a brother, Melton Spell.
Surviving is his wife of twenty-eight years, Carole Lee Spell of Baxley; children, Brenda and husband Ray Powell of Hazlehurst, Keith and wife Becky Spell of Jesup, Kenneth and wife Edna Lee of Brandon, Mississippi, Selina and husband Lewis Spell and Susan and husband Robby Courson, both of Baxley; eleven grandchildren, Wendy Brewer, Taylor Purvis, Nicholas Spell, Grayson Spell, Hunter Landon, Hannah Courson, Will Courson, Josh Spell, Camron Spell, Jennifer Hester and Chrissy Lee; seven great-grandchildren; two brothers, Lewis and wife Selina Spell and Wendell and wife Debbie Spell, both of Baxley; and several nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, February 18, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. from the chapel of Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory with the Reverend Don Dixon and the Reverend Richard Lewis officiating.
Interment followed in the Zoar Cemetery.
Visitation was held one hour prior to the funeral service on Tuesday at the funeral home Chapel.
Active pallbearers were Cole Brewer, Karson Galbreath, Randy Spell, Dustin Purvis, Will Courson and Robby Courson.
Honorary Pallbearers were the members of the Graham Church of God and all family and friends in attendance.
The family assembled at the home of Wendell and Debbie Spell at 52 Willard Street in Baxley.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Mr. Horace Lee Spell.
EDWARD “BUDDY” RAYFIELD
Columbia- Funeral services for Edward “Buddy” Rayfield was held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 12, at New Heights Church, 5501 Broad River Rd., Columbia, SC, 29212. The family received friends prior to the service beginning at 1:00 p.m. at the church. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel assistd the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to New Heights Church, or Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, 9565 Blackshear Hwy, Baxley, GA, 31513.
Born on August 15, 1938 in Cairo, he was a son of the late Lord Aaron Rayfield and Agnes Glisson Rayfield. Mr. Rayfield grew up in Baxley. A devoted and faithful member and greeter of New Heights Church, formerly Colonial Heights Baptist Church, Buddy retired from South Carolina Electric and Gas Company. Along with spending time with his family and church family, Buddy enjoyed being on his boat at the lake or river fishing.
Survivors include his son, James Edward Rayfield; daughter, Carolyn Marie Rayfield, both of Columbia; along with his adored nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 50 years, Carolyn Rae Rayfield; an infant sister; and brother, Everette Rayfield.
Memories and condolences may be shared at ShivesFuneralHome.com
Born on August 15, 1938 in Cairo, he was a son of the late Lord Aaron Rayfield and Agnes Glisson Rayfield. Mr. Rayfield grew up in Baxley. A devoted and faithful member and greeter of New Heights Church, formerly Colonial Heights Baptist Church, Buddy retired from South Carolina Electric and Gas Company. Along with spending time with his family and church family, Buddy enjoyed being on his boat at the lake or river fishing.
Survivors include his son, James Edward Rayfield; daughter, Carolyn Marie Rayfield, both of Columbia; along with his adored nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 50 years, Carolyn Rae Rayfield; an infant sister; and brother, Everette Rayfield.
Memories and condolences may be shared at ShivesFuneralHome.com
BENTLEY JAMES HERRINGTON
Bentley James Herrington passed away Wednesday, February 5, 2020 at the age of two months.
Bentley was born November 11, 2019 in Bacon County. He was preceded in death by his great grandfathers, Talmadge Herrington and Cary Tootle, an uncle, Coedy Herrington, and an aunt, Alexia Herrington.
Bentley is survived by his mother, Breanna Denise Herrington of Baxley; his grandparents, Tommy and Alice Herrington of Baxley; great grandmothers, Etta Faye Morris of Scotland and Debra Tootle of Reidsville; godmother, Ree Jackson of Baxley; adoptive grandparents, Danielle and Joseph Dunn of Baxley. Several aunts, uncles and cousins also survive.
Graveside services were held Monday, February 10, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. in the Ten Mile Creek Baptist Church Cemetery with the Rev. Ronnie Rentz officiating.
Pallbearers were Joseph Dunn, Alex Herrington, Dustin Herrington, T. L. Herrington, and Jessie Rogers.
Musical selections were rendered by Brittiany Murray.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
Bentley was born November 11, 2019 in Bacon County. He was preceded in death by his great grandfathers, Talmadge Herrington and Cary Tootle, an uncle, Coedy Herrington, and an aunt, Alexia Herrington.
Bentley is survived by his mother, Breanna Denise Herrington of Baxley; his grandparents, Tommy and Alice Herrington of Baxley; great grandmothers, Etta Faye Morris of Scotland and Debra Tootle of Reidsville; godmother, Ree Jackson of Baxley; adoptive grandparents, Danielle and Joseph Dunn of Baxley. Several aunts, uncles and cousins also survive.
Graveside services were held Monday, February 10, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. in the Ten Mile Creek Baptist Church Cemetery with the Rev. Ronnie Rentz officiating.
Pallbearers were Joseph Dunn, Alex Herrington, Dustin Herrington, T. L. Herrington, and Jessie Rogers.
Musical selections were rendered by Brittiany Murray.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
BRAILYNN JO BRYANT
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory announces the death of Miss Brailynn Jo Bryant, infant daughter of Branden and Jina Bryant, who passed away Saturday, February 8, 2020.
She was preceded in death by her aunt, Lynette Davidson and great grandparents, D.C. and Annell Bryant and Dean Brown and John Murphy and Jewel Lowe.
Surviving are her parents, Branden and Jina Bryant, paternal grandfather, David Bryant; paternal grandmother, Nancy and Daniel Ansley; maternal grandmother, Diana Lowe and Richard Green; maternal grandfather, Timothy and Rebecca Lowe; maternal great grandfather, Danny Stone and Janice Valentine; special aunt, Ashley Bracewell; special cousin, Regan Bracewell; aunt and uncle, Bill and Debbie McGuire; many cousins and other family also survive.
A Celebration of Life was held Wednesday, February 12, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. from the Christ Community Church with the Reverend Brad Park and Reverend Calvin Morris officiating.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Miss Brailynn Jo Bryant.
She was preceded in death by her aunt, Lynette Davidson and great grandparents, D.C. and Annell Bryant and Dean Brown and John Murphy and Jewel Lowe.
Surviving are her parents, Branden and Jina Bryant, paternal grandfather, David Bryant; paternal grandmother, Nancy and Daniel Ansley; maternal grandmother, Diana Lowe and Richard Green; maternal grandfather, Timothy and Rebecca Lowe; maternal great grandfather, Danny Stone and Janice Valentine; special aunt, Ashley Bracewell; special cousin, Regan Bracewell; aunt and uncle, Bill and Debbie McGuire; many cousins and other family also survive.
A Celebration of Life was held Wednesday, February 12, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. from the Christ Community Church with the Reverend Brad Park and Reverend Calvin Morris officiating.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Miss Brailynn Jo Bryant.
OLIVIA B. ARTZ
Olivia B. Artz, 85, of Margate, Florida passed away Saturday, February 8, 2020. Olivia Beckworth (Artz) was born to Uriah and Elneita Beckworth on May 25, 1934 in Appling County. She graduated from Surrency High School in 1953 and was valedictorian of her class. She married Larry Artz in 1955, they divorced in 1980. She was beloved mother to Ray Artz and wife Susan and Ann (Artz) Bone and husband Charlie. She was a very special grandmother and Memaw to Mark Artz and Sara Artz Pierre and husband Patrick Pierre; and Ellen Bone Cali and husband Bob Cali, Ruth Bone Bentley and husband Matt, and Abby Bone; and great grandmother to Isaiah and Selah Cali.
She was preceded in death by her brother Harley who died in Vietnam, brother Robert Beckworth, sister Dora Dukes and sister Ginger Ford. She is survived by her brother Retired Major James Maxwell Beckworth of Columbia and his children John Beckworth, Patty Lamont, and Cindy Cummings and their families. She is also survived by her nephew Carroll Dukes and his family; nephew Robert Beckworth Jr. and Wendy McDowell and her family; and nephews Danny and Mike Beckworth and niece Anita Beckworth Wessel of Germany.
Olivia became a Christian as a child. She loved Jesus, her family, and many dear friends. She was an active member of First Baptist Pompano from 1969-1991, and an active member of First Baptist Concord, TN from 1997-present. Olivia loved to cook, sew, quilt, crochet, arrange flowers, paint, and make ceramics. She worked for Sears Roebuck for over 25 years and retired in 1997. In retirement, she went to Singapore on a mission trip in 1999. Olivia also coordinated the Storying Scarf ministry which was started by Blair Faulk and her son-in-law Charlie Bone.
Funeral services were held Saturday, February 15, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. from the chapel of Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory with the Reverend Blair Faulk officiating.
Interment followed in the Beckworth Swinson Cemetery.
The family received friends Saturday from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home chapel.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital made in memory of Olivia Artz at the web site: www.stjude.org.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Olivia B. Artz.
She was preceded in death by her brother Harley who died in Vietnam, brother Robert Beckworth, sister Dora Dukes and sister Ginger Ford. She is survived by her brother Retired Major James Maxwell Beckworth of Columbia and his children John Beckworth, Patty Lamont, and Cindy Cummings and their families. She is also survived by her nephew Carroll Dukes and his family; nephew Robert Beckworth Jr. and Wendy McDowell and her family; and nephews Danny and Mike Beckworth and niece Anita Beckworth Wessel of Germany.
Olivia became a Christian as a child. She loved Jesus, her family, and many dear friends. She was an active member of First Baptist Pompano from 1969-1991, and an active member of First Baptist Concord, TN from 1997-present. Olivia loved to cook, sew, quilt, crochet, arrange flowers, paint, and make ceramics. She worked for Sears Roebuck for over 25 years and retired in 1997. In retirement, she went to Singapore on a mission trip in 1999. Olivia also coordinated the Storying Scarf ministry which was started by Blair Faulk and her son-in-law Charlie Bone.
Funeral services were held Saturday, February 15, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. from the chapel of Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory with the Reverend Blair Faulk officiating.
Interment followed in the Beckworth Swinson Cemetery.
The family received friends Saturday from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home chapel.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital made in memory of Olivia Artz at the web site: www.stjude.org.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Olivia B. Artz.
DANIEL EVERETT STIPE
Mr. Daniel Everett Stipe, 83, passed away Saturday (February 8, 2020) at his residence in Waycross following an extended illness.
He was born in Moorefield, AR to the late Daniel Everette Irvin Stipe and Maude Morgan Stipe. He graduated from Baxley High School in 1955 and attended Young Harris College before graduating from Georgia Teachers College in 1960. He was a former teacher and coach for the Wayne County Board of Education and formerly employed with Altamaha Oil Company where he operated a Phillip 66 Service Station. He was also a member of the Jesup Rotary Club.
He was the owner and operator of Big River Oil Company of Waycross from 1968 until 2000. He also owned Stipe’s Market which sponsored many school functions at Waycross High School. He was a member of the Waycross Board of Education, President of the Waycross High School Touchdown Club, and recently received the F.J. Beverly Beacon of Light Award in 2015 from the Waycross-Ware County Sports Hall of Fame. He served in the United States Air Force and was a member of Sweat Memorial Baptist Church in Waycross.
In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a brother, Jimmy Stipe (wife Lynn).
He is survived by his wife, Linda Hickox Stipe of Waycross; nine children, Steve Stipe (Dolores) of Waycross, Stan Stipe (Jennie) of Jacksonville, FL, Scott Stipe (Shae) of Patterson, Shannon Stipe (Kris) of Jacksonville, FL, Stuart Stipe (Summer) of Blackshear, Chuck Bell (Tasha) of Waycross, Jessica Carter (Waylan) of Waycross, Jennifer Bell Bennett of Waycross, and Sunny Oliver (Brandon) of Hoboken; several grandchildren, Amanda Stipe Blaylock, Steven Stipe, Jake Stipe, Jada Stipe, Jarred Stipe, Jessica Stipe, Sterling Stipe, Seth Stipe, Oake Stipe, Trinity Stipe, Lillie Stipe, Drew Stipe, Madison Harwell, Jackson Harwell, Johnny Roberson, Dawson Bennett, Dalton Fernandez, Easton Hall, and Braylee Oliver; two great grandchildren, Harper Stipe and Faith Blaylock; two brothers, Charles Ray Stipe (Becky) of Baxley and Bill Stipe (Rhonda) of Jesup; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A funeral service was held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 11, 2020 at Sweat Memorial Baptist Church. Burial followed in Oakland Cemetery. The family received friends Monday night at Music Funeral Home from 6 until 8 o’clock p.m.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online registry at www.musicfuneralhome.com.
Music Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
He was born in Moorefield, AR to the late Daniel Everette Irvin Stipe and Maude Morgan Stipe. He graduated from Baxley High School in 1955 and attended Young Harris College before graduating from Georgia Teachers College in 1960. He was a former teacher and coach for the Wayne County Board of Education and formerly employed with Altamaha Oil Company where he operated a Phillip 66 Service Station. He was also a member of the Jesup Rotary Club.
He was the owner and operator of Big River Oil Company of Waycross from 1968 until 2000. He also owned Stipe’s Market which sponsored many school functions at Waycross High School. He was a member of the Waycross Board of Education, President of the Waycross High School Touchdown Club, and recently received the F.J. Beverly Beacon of Light Award in 2015 from the Waycross-Ware County Sports Hall of Fame. He served in the United States Air Force and was a member of Sweat Memorial Baptist Church in Waycross.
In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a brother, Jimmy Stipe (wife Lynn).
He is survived by his wife, Linda Hickox Stipe of Waycross; nine children, Steve Stipe (Dolores) of Waycross, Stan Stipe (Jennie) of Jacksonville, FL, Scott Stipe (Shae) of Patterson, Shannon Stipe (Kris) of Jacksonville, FL, Stuart Stipe (Summer) of Blackshear, Chuck Bell (Tasha) of Waycross, Jessica Carter (Waylan) of Waycross, Jennifer Bell Bennett of Waycross, and Sunny Oliver (Brandon) of Hoboken; several grandchildren, Amanda Stipe Blaylock, Steven Stipe, Jake Stipe, Jada Stipe, Jarred Stipe, Jessica Stipe, Sterling Stipe, Seth Stipe, Oake Stipe, Trinity Stipe, Lillie Stipe, Drew Stipe, Madison Harwell, Jackson Harwell, Johnny Roberson, Dawson Bennett, Dalton Fernandez, Easton Hall, and Braylee Oliver; two great grandchildren, Harper Stipe and Faith Blaylock; two brothers, Charles Ray Stipe (Becky) of Baxley and Bill Stipe (Rhonda) of Jesup; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A funeral service was held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 11, 2020 at Sweat Memorial Baptist Church. Burial followed in Oakland Cemetery. The family received friends Monday night at Music Funeral Home from 6 until 8 o’clock p.m.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online registry at www.musicfuneralhome.com.
Music Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
PATRICIA “PAT” ANN JONES ROUSE
Patricia “Pat” Ann Jones Rouse, 86 of Jesup died Sunday, February 9, 2020. The Appling County native had lived in Wayne County the past 64 years, was a member of Jesup Church of God of Prophecy and attended Jesup Christian Fellowship. Pat was a homemaker who enjoyed quilting, ceramics, flower gardening and painting.
She was predeceased by her daughter, Debbie Rouse Linkous and infant son, Patrick Eugene Rouse.
Survivors are her husband of 69 and a half years, H.E. “Gene” Rouse of Jesup; a son, Greg (Teresa) Rouse of Shellman Bluff; two sisters, Mary Atkins of Blackshear and Bobbie Jo McNeely of Swainsboro; son-in-law, Jeff Linkous; 3 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.
Graveside funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 11, 2020 at Omega Family Cemetery in Baxley.
The family received friends at the cemetery.
Rinehart and Sons Funeral Home of Jesup was in charge of arrangements.
She was predeceased by her daughter, Debbie Rouse Linkous and infant son, Patrick Eugene Rouse.
Survivors are her husband of 69 and a half years, H.E. “Gene” Rouse of Jesup; a son, Greg (Teresa) Rouse of Shellman Bluff; two sisters, Mary Atkins of Blackshear and Bobbie Jo McNeely of Swainsboro; son-in-law, Jeff Linkous; 3 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.
Graveside funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 11, 2020 at Omega Family Cemetery in Baxley.
The family received friends at the cemetery.
Rinehart and Sons Funeral Home of Jesup was in charge of arrangements.
JOSEPH LARRY JONES
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory announces the funeral services for Mr. Joseph Larry “Cowboy” Jones, 54, who passed away Tuesday, February 4, 2020 at Appling Healthcare System. He was a native of Emanuel County living the past twenty-three years in Appling County as a retired log truck driver and a member of Red Oak Baptist Church. Larry was a hard working and dedicated husband and father.
He was preceded in death by his father, Earl Jones.
Surviving is his wife, Frieda Jones of Baxley; daughter, Georgia Leianne Jones of Baxley; son, Sgt. Dylan Wesley Jones, United States Army and wife Ada Lee Jones of Hinesville; mother, JoAnn Brown of St. Mary’s; sisters, Teresa Lynn Young and husband Fred Young of Spartanburg, SC, Tonya Lynnelle Davis and husband Daniel Davis of St. Mary’s and Sundance Nipper of Baxley; brother, Travis and wife Jenny Nipper of Jacksonville, NC; parents in love, Ronnie and Sheryl Nipper of Baxley and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Saturday, February 8, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. from the chapel of Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory with the Reverend Robbie Gill officiating.
Interment followed in the Satilla Baptist Church Cemetery.
Visitation was held one hour prior to services on Saturday at the funeral home chapel.
Active Pallbearers were Griffin Nipper, Chance Leggett, Caide Leggett, Tyler Bohannon, Trey Young, Jesse Osteen and Gavin Nipper.
Honorary Pallbearers were all truck drivers in attendance.
The family assembled at the home of Larry and Frieda Jones at 2323 Cauley Road.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Mr. Joseph Larry “Cowboy” Jones.
He was preceded in death by his father, Earl Jones.
Surviving is his wife, Frieda Jones of Baxley; daughter, Georgia Leianne Jones of Baxley; son, Sgt. Dylan Wesley Jones, United States Army and wife Ada Lee Jones of Hinesville; mother, JoAnn Brown of St. Mary’s; sisters, Teresa Lynn Young and husband Fred Young of Spartanburg, SC, Tonya Lynnelle Davis and husband Daniel Davis of St. Mary’s and Sundance Nipper of Baxley; brother, Travis and wife Jenny Nipper of Jacksonville, NC; parents in love, Ronnie and Sheryl Nipper of Baxley and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Saturday, February 8, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. from the chapel of Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory with the Reverend Robbie Gill officiating.
Interment followed in the Satilla Baptist Church Cemetery.
Visitation was held one hour prior to services on Saturday at the funeral home chapel.
Active Pallbearers were Griffin Nipper, Chance Leggett, Caide Leggett, Tyler Bohannon, Trey Young, Jesse Osteen and Gavin Nipper.
Honorary Pallbearers were all truck drivers in attendance.
The family assembled at the home of Larry and Frieda Jones at 2323 Cauley Road.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Mr. Joseph Larry “Cowboy” Jones.
DIXIE D. CRIBB
Dixie D. Cribb, 84, passed away peacefully Wednesday, January 22, 2020 at the Community Hospice Center at St. Vincent’s Southside in Jacksonville, FL.
Dixie was born on May 26, 1935 in Appling County to Alton Lee and Carrie Lightsey Darsey. She was a graduate of Surrency High School class of 1953. She married the love of her life, James Earl Cribb (from McColl, SC) on July 7, 1962 in Jacksonville, FL, and shared more than 57 years together. The most fulfilling part of Dixie’s life was her family.
Dixie worked for Bell South Telephone Company and retired after over 35 years of service. She was an active member of the Telephone Pioneers Club of America and the Communications Workers of America (CWA).
She was a dedicated mother and grandmother first and foremost, but not just to her immediate family. She treasured her family and embraced every moment with them. She especially enjoyed cooking for her family for many years, and taking care of babies as soon as she could pry them from the mother’s arms. Dixie welcomed everyone with a smile and open arms… she never met a stranger. She was an avid sports fan, watching Gator football, basketball, and college basketball as a whole.
Funeral services were held at Piney Grove Free Will Baptist Church in Bristol on Tuesday, February 4, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. Interment followed in the Piney Grove Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery.
Dixie is survived by her husband, James Earl Cribb; her son and his wife, James Wendel and Shannon Cribb; a grandson, Zackery Alton Cribb; two sisters, Nona Pearl Williams and Bronnie Sue Darsey; as well as by many extended family members and friends. All of these she loved and touched deeply.
Active Pallbearers were Doug Williams, Ronald Williams, Donny Darsey, Chad Darsey, John Mark and Carl Smith.
Musical selections were rendered by the congregation, lead by the Rev. Rick Brown and accompanied by Denise Bergeron.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Dixie’s memory to Community Hospice & Palliative Care of Jacksonville.
Dixie was born on May 26, 1935 in Appling County to Alton Lee and Carrie Lightsey Darsey. She was a graduate of Surrency High School class of 1953. She married the love of her life, James Earl Cribb (from McColl, SC) on July 7, 1962 in Jacksonville, FL, and shared more than 57 years together. The most fulfilling part of Dixie’s life was her family.
Dixie worked for Bell South Telephone Company and retired after over 35 years of service. She was an active member of the Telephone Pioneers Club of America and the Communications Workers of America (CWA).
She was a dedicated mother and grandmother first and foremost, but not just to her immediate family. She treasured her family and embraced every moment with them. She especially enjoyed cooking for her family for many years, and taking care of babies as soon as she could pry them from the mother’s arms. Dixie welcomed everyone with a smile and open arms… she never met a stranger. She was an avid sports fan, watching Gator football, basketball, and college basketball as a whole.
Funeral services were held at Piney Grove Free Will Baptist Church in Bristol on Tuesday, February 4, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. Interment followed in the Piney Grove Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery.
Dixie is survived by her husband, James Earl Cribb; her son and his wife, James Wendel and Shannon Cribb; a grandson, Zackery Alton Cribb; two sisters, Nona Pearl Williams and Bronnie Sue Darsey; as well as by many extended family members and friends. All of these she loved and touched deeply.
Active Pallbearers were Doug Williams, Ronald Williams, Donny Darsey, Chad Darsey, John Mark and Carl Smith.
Musical selections were rendered by the congregation, lead by the Rev. Rick Brown and accompanied by Denise Bergeron.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Dixie’s memory to Community Hospice & Palliative Care of Jacksonville.
CARNETT FLEMING BOONE
Mrs. Carnett Fleming Boone was born to the late Herman Fleming and Gussie McCray on June 12, 1922 in Lumber City. Popularly known as “Connie” to her fiends and family, she attended school in Blackshear. Later she moved to Baxley, where she met and married Henry Hall. To that union two children, Henry Hall, Jr. and Heneretta Hall, were born. Both children preceded their mother in death.
In 1943 Carnett moved to Norwalk, Connecticut, where she met and married Joseph Presha. She was an active member of Norwalk’s Calvary Baptist Church, a member of the local NAACP, a parent volunteer at the Carver Foundation Youth Center, a member of the CIBs, Inc., a non-professional women’s organization that raised scholarship funds for college students, and a proud member of Norwalk, Connecticut Order of the Eastern Star, Debora Chapter #16. After her second marriage ended in divorce, Carnett met and married Fred Boone with whom she spent fourteen happy years in Norwalk before he succumbed to illness.
Now officially “retired,” Carnett returned home to Baxley in 1976 where she reconnected with Thankful New Jersey Missionary Baptist Church of her youth and began serving in various capacities, including Sunday School teacher and member of the Senior Choir. She soon began volunteering as Happy Helper in the local elementary school, transporting senior citizens to medical appointments, and volunteering time at a state-sponsored nutrition daycare program for seniors. In 1990, she began a personal crusade to raise donations for the restoration and ongoing maintenance of the Baxley Cemetery. Carnett continued these efforts until age and infirmities forced her to pass on the responsibility to others. Nevertheless her strong commitment, hard work, and determination have resulted in a place where Baxley residents can lay their loved ones with respect and dignity.
After a life devoted to helping others, Carnett answered the Master’s call on January 28, 2020. She leaves behind two sons, Richard and Ronald Presha; grandson, Robert “Butch” Bell; ten grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren and a host of other devoted family and friends to cherish her memories.
Funeral services were held Saturday, February 8, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Thankful New Jersey Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. Zach Walton presiding and Pastor Christopher Wilson officiating. Interment followed at Baxley Cemetery.
Active pallbearers were friends of the family.
Honorary pallbearers were members of the Order of the Eastern Star Adah Chapter #3.
Musical selections were rendered by the choir.
Professional services were entrusted to C. M. Brown Funeral Home.
In 1943 Carnett moved to Norwalk, Connecticut, where she met and married Joseph Presha. She was an active member of Norwalk’s Calvary Baptist Church, a member of the local NAACP, a parent volunteer at the Carver Foundation Youth Center, a member of the CIBs, Inc., a non-professional women’s organization that raised scholarship funds for college students, and a proud member of Norwalk, Connecticut Order of the Eastern Star, Debora Chapter #16. After her second marriage ended in divorce, Carnett met and married Fred Boone with whom she spent fourteen happy years in Norwalk before he succumbed to illness.
Now officially “retired,” Carnett returned home to Baxley in 1976 where she reconnected with Thankful New Jersey Missionary Baptist Church of her youth and began serving in various capacities, including Sunday School teacher and member of the Senior Choir. She soon began volunteering as Happy Helper in the local elementary school, transporting senior citizens to medical appointments, and volunteering time at a state-sponsored nutrition daycare program for seniors. In 1990, she began a personal crusade to raise donations for the restoration and ongoing maintenance of the Baxley Cemetery. Carnett continued these efforts until age and infirmities forced her to pass on the responsibility to others. Nevertheless her strong commitment, hard work, and determination have resulted in a place where Baxley residents can lay their loved ones with respect and dignity.
After a life devoted to helping others, Carnett answered the Master’s call on January 28, 2020. She leaves behind two sons, Richard and Ronald Presha; grandson, Robert “Butch” Bell; ten grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren and a host of other devoted family and friends to cherish her memories.
Funeral services were held Saturday, February 8, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Thankful New Jersey Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. Zach Walton presiding and Pastor Christopher Wilson officiating. Interment followed at Baxley Cemetery.
Active pallbearers were friends of the family.
Honorary pallbearers were members of the Order of the Eastern Star Adah Chapter #3.
Musical selections were rendered by the choir.
Professional services were entrusted to C. M. Brown Funeral Home.
GARY H. WILLIAMS
Gary H. Williams, 64, of Baxley passed away Sunday, January 26, 2020 at Memorial Health University Medical Center in Savannah.
Mr. Williams was born August 17, 1955 in Bacon County to the late Wade Archie Williams and the late Gertie Lee Spell Williams. He was a retired Operating Engineer with Local 474.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Williams was preceded in death by a son, Garrett Williams and brothers, Jerry Williams and James Edward Williams.
Survivors include his daughter and son-in-law, Ashley and Allen Crawford of Hazlehurst; a sister and brother-in-law, Glenda and Charles Anderson of Baxley; sister-in-law, Nancy Williams of Baxley; Two grandchildren, Hudson Crawford and Harper Crawford both of Hazlehurst.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, January 28, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Swain Funeral Home with the Rev. David Deen officiating.
Interment followed in Omega Cemetery.
Active Pallbearers were Ryan Williams, Jeffery Crawford, Mike Rentz, William Spell and Randy Spell.
Honorary Pallbearers were the Operating Engineers Local 474 and all friends in attendance.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
Mr. Williams was born August 17, 1955 in Bacon County to the late Wade Archie Williams and the late Gertie Lee Spell Williams. He was a retired Operating Engineer with Local 474.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Williams was preceded in death by a son, Garrett Williams and brothers, Jerry Williams and James Edward Williams.
Survivors include his daughter and son-in-law, Ashley and Allen Crawford of Hazlehurst; a sister and brother-in-law, Glenda and Charles Anderson of Baxley; sister-in-law, Nancy Williams of Baxley; Two grandchildren, Hudson Crawford and Harper Crawford both of Hazlehurst.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, January 28, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Swain Funeral Home with the Rev. David Deen officiating.
Interment followed in Omega Cemetery.
Active Pallbearers were Ryan Williams, Jeffery Crawford, Mike Rentz, William Spell and Randy Spell.
Honorary Pallbearers were the Operating Engineers Local 474 and all friends in attendance.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
PATRICIA ANN MORRIS CRAVEN
Patricia Ann Morris Craven, 79, died Friday, January 31, 2020 at Memorial Health University Medical Center in Savannah.
Mrs. Craven was born August 28, 1940 in Appling County to the late William Henry “Bill” Morris and the late Louise Smith Morris. She was a member of Satilla Baptist Church. Mrs. Craven was a crop insurance supervisor and was the owner of Sweet Magic Bakery and Sweet Magic Real Estate.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Chaudowin Morris.
Survivors include her husband of 59 years, E. H. “Hoppy” Craven of Baxley; sons and daughters-in-law, Jeffrey and Cathy Craven of Monroe and Rick and Amy Craven of Cumming; grandchildren, Patricia Ann Craven and Jeffrey Hobson Craven, Jr. both of Monroe, Reagan Louise Craven and Brooklyn Kennedy Craven both of Cumming, and Chris Eason of Baxley; sisters and brothers-in-law Beverly and Jerry Shumans of Baxley and Wanda and Max Sellers of Dawson; and sister-in-law Carolyn Morris of Baxley.
Funeral Services were held Sunday, February 2, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Swain Funeral Home with the Rev. Scottie Pitts and Rev. Calvin Morris officiating.
Interment followed in Deen Cemetery.
Active pallbearers were Henry Morris, Art Shumans, Keith Morris, Kyle Morris, David Upchurch, and Jeffrey Craven, Jr.
Honorary pallbearers were all friends in attendance of the funeral service.
Musical selections were rendered by David Williams.
Memorial contributions may be made to Satilla Baptist Church Building Fund (c/o Erica Courson 870 Lynch Road Baxley, Georgia 31513).
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
Mrs. Craven was born August 28, 1940 in Appling County to the late William Henry “Bill” Morris and the late Louise Smith Morris. She was a member of Satilla Baptist Church. Mrs. Craven was a crop insurance supervisor and was the owner of Sweet Magic Bakery and Sweet Magic Real Estate.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Chaudowin Morris.
Survivors include her husband of 59 years, E. H. “Hoppy” Craven of Baxley; sons and daughters-in-law, Jeffrey and Cathy Craven of Monroe and Rick and Amy Craven of Cumming; grandchildren, Patricia Ann Craven and Jeffrey Hobson Craven, Jr. both of Monroe, Reagan Louise Craven and Brooklyn Kennedy Craven both of Cumming, and Chris Eason of Baxley; sisters and brothers-in-law Beverly and Jerry Shumans of Baxley and Wanda and Max Sellers of Dawson; and sister-in-law Carolyn Morris of Baxley.
Funeral Services were held Sunday, February 2, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Swain Funeral Home with the Rev. Scottie Pitts and Rev. Calvin Morris officiating.
Interment followed in Deen Cemetery.
Active pallbearers were Henry Morris, Art Shumans, Keith Morris, Kyle Morris, David Upchurch, and Jeffrey Craven, Jr.
Honorary pallbearers were all friends in attendance of the funeral service.
Musical selections were rendered by David Williams.
Memorial contributions may be made to Satilla Baptist Church Building Fund (c/o Erica Courson 870 Lynch Road Baxley, Georgia 31513).
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
M. P. MATHEWS JR.
On January 23, 2020 God spoke to M. P. Mathews, Jr. and said “You fought the good fight; your work on earth is done.”
M.P. Mathews, Jr. was born on October 10, 1947 in Lincolnton to the late M. P. Mathews, Sr. and Lucille Hearst. He was the youngest of six siblings. He attended and was educated at Appling County Consolidated Public School. He joined Rachel Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Kendall Bennamon.
M. P. was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Kate Robbinson, Robert Willie Cullars, and Martha Sailem; grandson, Marquis Mathews; brothers-in-law, Jesse Sailem and Charles T. Brown.
He leaves to cherish his memories his daughter, Sharon Mathews of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; three grandsons, Jarvis Mathews, Justin Mathews, and Eric Frazier, Jr., all of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; thirteen great-grandchildren; two siblings, Geneva Ryals and Gus Ryals, both of Baxley; two special great-grandchildren, Poca “Pork Chop” and Sassy “Steak”; two favorite nephews, Tracy Sailem and Cedric Sailem; very special friend, Betty Roberson. He also leaves to cherish his memory a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Funeral Services were held at Rachel Missionary Baptist Church on Thursday, January 30, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Kentaiwon Durham presiding and Dr. Kendall Bennamon officiating. Interment followed at Rachel Baptist Church Cemetery.
Active Pallbearers were Tracy Sailem Sr., David Sailem, Jesse Sailem, Roy Sailem, and Cedric Sailem.
Musical selections were rendered by Mrs. Alberta Ryals, Mrs. Gwendolyn Ryals, and Reverend Kentaiwon Durham.
Professional Services were entrusted to C M. Brown Funeral Home.
M.P. Mathews, Jr. was born on October 10, 1947 in Lincolnton to the late M. P. Mathews, Sr. and Lucille Hearst. He was the youngest of six siblings. He attended and was educated at Appling County Consolidated Public School. He joined Rachel Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Kendall Bennamon.
M. P. was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Kate Robbinson, Robert Willie Cullars, and Martha Sailem; grandson, Marquis Mathews; brothers-in-law, Jesse Sailem and Charles T. Brown.
He leaves to cherish his memories his daughter, Sharon Mathews of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; three grandsons, Jarvis Mathews, Justin Mathews, and Eric Frazier, Jr., all of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; thirteen great-grandchildren; two siblings, Geneva Ryals and Gus Ryals, both of Baxley; two special great-grandchildren, Poca “Pork Chop” and Sassy “Steak”; two favorite nephews, Tracy Sailem and Cedric Sailem; very special friend, Betty Roberson. He also leaves to cherish his memory a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Funeral Services were held at Rachel Missionary Baptist Church on Thursday, January 30, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Kentaiwon Durham presiding and Dr. Kendall Bennamon officiating. Interment followed at Rachel Baptist Church Cemetery.
Active Pallbearers were Tracy Sailem Sr., David Sailem, Jesse Sailem, Roy Sailem, and Cedric Sailem.
Musical selections were rendered by Mrs. Alberta Ryals, Mrs. Gwendolyn Ryals, and Reverend Kentaiwon Durham.
Professional Services were entrusted to C M. Brown Funeral Home.
Lonnie Julian Gibbs
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory announces the death of Mr. Lonnie Julian Gibbs, 75, who passed away Sunday, January 26, 2020 at Memorial Health University in Savannah. He was a lifelong resident of Surrency and a lifetime logger currently employed with Freddie Murray and previously with J.W. Murray. Mr. Lonnie was a loving and devoted father a granddaddy to some and daddy to all.
He was preceded in death by his wife of forty-nine years, Mary “Lucy” Gibbs; step-granddaughter, Tiffany Smiarowski and parents, Marvin and Mary Strickland Gibbs.
Surviving is his loving companion, Mary Sue Gibbs of Surrency; son, Travis and wife Janifer Gibbs of Baxley; daughter, Vicky and husband Scott Smiarowski of Sebastian, FL; grandchildren, Maisley Wildes, Trevor Gibbs, Jacilynn Gibbs, Jami Gibbs, Brody Wright, Joshua Gibbs and Aushalina Keeler; step grandchildren, Dustin Smiarowski, Ashley Smiarowski, Christina Royal, Waymon Royal, Jaide Patterson, Cage Robinson, Quin Robinson, JT Gibbs, Brilee Gibbs and Lia Senters; six great grandchildren; sister, Joan Higgins and Harry Griffin of Baxley; brothers, Ernest Gibbs of Surrency and Emmett and wife Patia Gibbs of Surrency; step sister, Freda and husband Joe Devereaux of Surrency; step brothers, Calvin Gibbs of Baxley, George W. and wife Marie Gibbs of Plant City, FL, Jimmy Gibbs of Baxley and Dean and wife Betty Jo Gibbs of Baxley.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, January 29, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. from the chapel of Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory with the Reverend Nathan Dyal officiating.
Interment followed in the Surrency City Cemetery.
Visitation was held Tuesday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Pallbearers were Craig Gibbs, Brandon Murray, Deen Lane, Shawn Tillman, Greg Tillman, Joe Pierce Jr. and Ken Hayes.
Honorary Pallbearers were J.W. and Merle Murray, Jerome Murray, Freddie Murray and Cheryl Tillman.
The family assembled at the home of Mr. Lonnie Gibbs at 340 DM Tillman Road in Surrency.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Mr. Lonnie Julian Gibbs.
He was preceded in death by his wife of forty-nine years, Mary “Lucy” Gibbs; step-granddaughter, Tiffany Smiarowski and parents, Marvin and Mary Strickland Gibbs.
Surviving is his loving companion, Mary Sue Gibbs of Surrency; son, Travis and wife Janifer Gibbs of Baxley; daughter, Vicky and husband Scott Smiarowski of Sebastian, FL; grandchildren, Maisley Wildes, Trevor Gibbs, Jacilynn Gibbs, Jami Gibbs, Brody Wright, Joshua Gibbs and Aushalina Keeler; step grandchildren, Dustin Smiarowski, Ashley Smiarowski, Christina Royal, Waymon Royal, Jaide Patterson, Cage Robinson, Quin Robinson, JT Gibbs, Brilee Gibbs and Lia Senters; six great grandchildren; sister, Joan Higgins and Harry Griffin of Baxley; brothers, Ernest Gibbs of Surrency and Emmett and wife Patia Gibbs of Surrency; step sister, Freda and husband Joe Devereaux of Surrency; step brothers, Calvin Gibbs of Baxley, George W. and wife Marie Gibbs of Plant City, FL, Jimmy Gibbs of Baxley and Dean and wife Betty Jo Gibbs of Baxley.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, January 29, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. from the chapel of Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory with the Reverend Nathan Dyal officiating.
Interment followed in the Surrency City Cemetery.
Visitation was held Tuesday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Pallbearers were Craig Gibbs, Brandon Murray, Deen Lane, Shawn Tillman, Greg Tillman, Joe Pierce Jr. and Ken Hayes.
Honorary Pallbearers were J.W. and Merle Murray, Jerome Murray, Freddie Murray and Cheryl Tillman.
The family assembled at the home of Mr. Lonnie Gibbs at 340 DM Tillman Road in Surrency.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Mr. Lonnie Julian Gibbs.
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