Marion Louise Hilton Harris, 92, of Bristol, Georgia, departed this life and arrived in heaven on December 17, 2018. She was a mama, grandma, great-grandma, great-great-grandma, wife, aunt, sister, neighbor, Christian -- and in many books – Saint. She has sewn more stitches, broke more switches, flipped more pancakes, rocked more babies, forgiven more trespasses, shown more examples and blessed more people than most people will ever participate in collectively, in their whole families. She unselfishly gave of her time, money and talents for the betterment of her church, her family and her neighborhood. She was a true matriarch and beautiful southern lady in the fullest sense of the words. She was preceded in death by her mama and daddy, Beatrice Wilson Hilton and John Wesley Hilton, husband, John L. Harris, Sr., son, John L. Harris, Jr. and wife Peggy Mobley Harris, granddaughter, Ginger Louise Harris, great-granddaughter, Bristol Kaye Harris, sisters, Jessie Mae Beaver, Eureta Finn and June Rogers.
She is survived by sons Donnie Harris and Linda of Waycross, Ronnie Harris and Gayle of Umatilla, FL, Greg Harris and wife Trisha and Rusty Harris of Bristol, and Doug Harris and wife Betsy of Baxley, daughters Judy Morris and husband Mickey of Odum and Sheryl Ellis and husband Jeff of Jesup, sisters Iona Lee Anderson of Jesup, Sidney Walker of Blackshear, brothers Bob Hilton of Screven and Leroy and Carol Hilton of Huntsville, Texas. She is also survived by nineteen grandchildren, thirty-one great-grandchildren and one and two-thirds great-great-grandchildren as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbors.
A large hole has opened in our family and it extends up to heaven, no doubt as the pathway for one true saint to enter the pearly gates. None can replace her on this earth as the pattern from which she was formed is unique.
Services were held Thursday, December 20, 2018 at 3:00 pm at Piney Grove Free Will Baptist Church.
Burial immediately followed the service in Piney Grove Free Will Baptist Cemetery.
Active pallbearers were her grandsons.
Honorary pallbearers were members of Piney Grove Free Will Baptist Church Adult Sunday School Class, the staff of Hospice Satilla, and her caregivers Sandra Gomez and Renita Potter.
Musical selections were rendered by Misty Harris, Lynne Thornton, Charlie Lightsey and the congregation.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made by contribution to Piney Grove Free Will Baptist Church, Women Active for Christ (WAC).
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
Obituaries
MARY GRAHAM WILLIAMS
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory announces the funeral services for Mrs. Mary Graham Williams, age 84, who passed away Wednesday, December 12, 2018, at her residence. She was a lifelong resident of Appling County, a retired seamstress and a member of Red Oak Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Claude “Buck” Williams and parents, Pirkle and Merle Leggett Graham.
Survivors include her five children, Glenn Williams of Baxley, Jennie Drawdy of Graham, Larry Williams of Baxley, Susan and husband Dwain Sellers of Baxley and Stacey “Buck” and wife
Cathy Williams of Baxley; eight grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren and aunt, Essie Boatright of Mershon.
Funeral services were held Saturday, December 15, 2018, at 11:00 a.m., at Red Oak Baptist Church with the Reverend Ron Ross, Reverend Denny Waters and Reverend Robbie Gill officiating.
Mrs. Williams laid in state one hour prior to funeral services.
Interment followed in the church cemetery.
Visitation was held on Friday, December 14, 2018, from 6 – 8 p.m., at the funeral home chapel.
Active Pallbearers were Rodney Williams, Ricky Williams, Victor Williams, Lamar Deen, Stevie Smith and Scotty Turner.
Honorary pallbearers were all 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 Mary Graham Williams.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Claude “Buck” Williams and parents, Pirkle and Merle Leggett Graham.
Survivors include her five children, Glenn Williams of Baxley, Jennie Drawdy of Graham, Larry Williams of Baxley, Susan and husband Dwain Sellers of Baxley and Stacey “Buck” and wife
Cathy Williams of Baxley; eight grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren and aunt, Essie Boatright of Mershon.
Funeral services were held Saturday, December 15, 2018, at 11:00 a.m., at Red Oak Baptist Church with the Reverend Ron Ross, Reverend Denny Waters and Reverend Robbie Gill officiating.
Mrs. Williams laid in state one hour prior to funeral services.
Interment followed in the church cemetery.
Visitation was held on Friday, December 14, 2018, from 6 – 8 p.m., at the funeral home chapel.
Active Pallbearers were Rodney Williams, Ricky Williams, Victor Williams, Lamar Deen, Stevie Smith and Scotty Turner.
Honorary pallbearers were all 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 Mary Graham Williams.
CARL EUGENE MURPHY
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory announces the funeral services for Carl Eugene Murphy, age 67, who passed away Thursday, December 13, 2018, at Memorial Satilla Health in Waycross. He was a lifetime resident of Appling County, a former employee of Thompson Hardwood and a Christian by faith.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leborn and Helen Patton Murphy, a brother, J.C. Murphy and a sister, Sharon Creamer.
Survivors include three brothers and sisters in-law, Rodney and Melba Murphy of Baxley, Larry Murphy of St. Augustine, FL, and Clayton and Ruby Murphy of Hazlehurst; one sister, Bobbie Nell Raver of St. Augustine, FL, and several nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral services were held Sunday, December 16, 2018, at 2:00 p.m., at Nobles Funeral Home Chapel with the Reverend Dennis Bryant and Reverend Carlton Rowell officiating.
Interment followed in the Bethel United Methodist Church Cemetery.
Visitation was held one hour prior to funeral services.
Active Pallbearers were Shawn Murphy, Kelly Murphy, Stacy Turner, Brad Turner, Chase Turner and Daniel McGauley.
Friends and family may sign the online guest book at noblesfh.com.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Carl Eugene Murphy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leborn and Helen Patton Murphy, a brother, J.C. Murphy and a sister, Sharon Creamer.
Survivors include three brothers and sisters in-law, Rodney and Melba Murphy of Baxley, Larry Murphy of St. Augustine, FL, and Clayton and Ruby Murphy of Hazlehurst; one sister, Bobbie Nell Raver of St. Augustine, FL, and several nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral services were held Sunday, December 16, 2018, at 2:00 p.m., at Nobles Funeral Home Chapel with the Reverend Dennis Bryant and Reverend Carlton Rowell officiating.
Interment followed in the Bethel United Methodist Church Cemetery.
Visitation was held one hour prior to funeral services.
Active Pallbearers were Shawn Murphy, Kelly Murphy, Stacy Turner, Brad Turner, Chase Turner and Daniel McGauley.
Friends and family may sign the online guest book at noblesfh.com.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Carl Eugene Murphy.
PATRICIA ANN SPELL LEWIS
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory announces the funeral services for Patricia Ann Spell Lewis, age 78, who passed away Thursday, December 13, 2018, at the Pavilion. She was a long-time resident of Appling County, the former owner of the Oak Dale Motel and a Christian by faith.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Robert E. Lewis and parents, Cecil and Lillie Williamson Spell.
Survivors include her son and daughter in-law, Greg and Tanya Lewis of Baxley; two grandchildren, Jessa Lynn Lewis Smith of Acworth and Katie Ann Lewis Mann and husband Travis of Baxley; one great grandchild, Ashyr Smith; one brother, Ronnie and Sue Spell of Baxley and two sisters, Eula and Maxwell Leggett and Elizabeth Creech both of Baxley.
Graveside funeral services were held Saturday, December 15, 2018, at 3:00 p.m., at Miles Chapel Church Cemetery with the Reverend Robert Varnadore officiating.
Interment followed.
Friends and family may sign the online guest book at noblesfh.com.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Patricia Ann Spell Lewis.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Robert E. Lewis and parents, Cecil and Lillie Williamson Spell.
Survivors include her son and daughter in-law, Greg and Tanya Lewis of Baxley; two grandchildren, Jessa Lynn Lewis Smith of Acworth and Katie Ann Lewis Mann and husband Travis of Baxley; one great grandchild, Ashyr Smith; one brother, Ronnie and Sue Spell of Baxley and two sisters, Eula and Maxwell Leggett and Elizabeth Creech both of Baxley.
Graveside funeral services were held Saturday, December 15, 2018, at 3:00 p.m., at Miles Chapel Church Cemetery with the Reverend Robert Varnadore officiating.
Interment followed.
Friends and family may sign the online guest book at noblesfh.com.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Patricia Ann Spell Lewis.
VERNA JEANETTE HORNE
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory announces the funeral services for Verna Jeanette Horne, age 70, who passed away Monday, December 10, 2018, at Hazlehurst Center. She was a longtime resident of Appling County living in Augusta for the past eleven years and a retired office manager.
She was preceded in death by her husband, George Horne; parents, Bernice and Verna Mae Nettles Youmans and brother, Felton Youmans.
Survivors include her son Craig Horne of Stark, FL; daughter, Tena Dyal of Baxley; three grandchildren, Stephanie Dyal Combermack and husband Shaun of Augusta, Steven Dyal and wife Ashley of Fernandina, FL and Kimberly “Shae” Dyal of Baxley and five great grandchildren.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, December 12, 2018, at 2:00 p.m. at Nobles Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Agnes Sellers officiating.
Visitation was held one hour prior to services at the funeral home.
Friends and family may sign the online guest book at noblesfh.com.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Verna Jeanette Horne.
She was preceded in death by her husband, George Horne; parents, Bernice and Verna Mae Nettles Youmans and brother, Felton Youmans.
Survivors include her son Craig Horne of Stark, FL; daughter, Tena Dyal of Baxley; three grandchildren, Stephanie Dyal Combermack and husband Shaun of Augusta, Steven Dyal and wife Ashley of Fernandina, FL and Kimberly “Shae” Dyal of Baxley and five great grandchildren.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, December 12, 2018, at 2:00 p.m. at Nobles Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Agnes Sellers officiating.
Visitation was held one hour prior to services at the funeral home.
Friends and family may sign the online guest book at noblesfh.com.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Verna Jeanette Horne.
L. H. HARRELSON
L. H. Harrelson, 92, passed away Thursday December 13, 2018 at his residence surrounded by his family and under the care of Community Hospice. He was born January 28, 1926 to Lonnie and Samantha Wilds Harrelson and lived in this area all his life. He was a farmer and was an avid outdoorsman that loved to fish. He was a member of Pineview Baptist Church and preceded in death by his parents, daughter Linda H. Swailes, a brother Louie Harrelson, and a sister Willie Ruth Dees.
He is survived by his wife, Alberta A Harrelson of Reidsville, children, Opal Durrence of Reidsville, Lonnie Harrelson (Carole) of Reidsville, Jeannie Kirkland (Jerry) of Brunswick, Duane Harrelson of Reidsville, and Denise Harrelson of Reidsville, brother, Enoch Harrelson (June) of Baxley, sister, Emma Jean Collins (Gary) of Baxley, and grandchildren, Gene Day (Donna), Heath Harrelson (Rachael), Mark Durrence (Tammy), Johnny Durrence (Elaine), and Justin Kirkland (Brittany). 13 great grandchildren, four great-great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews also survive.
Visitation was held at 12:00 p.m. Saturday December 15, 2018, at Pineview Baptist Church. Funeral Services followed at 2:00 p.m. Burial was at the Pineview Church Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Mark Durrence, Johnny Durrence, Heath Harrelson, Justin Kirkland, Eli Lively, and Mickey McBroom.
Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home, Glennville, Georgia was in charge of the arrangements.
He is survived by his wife, Alberta A Harrelson of Reidsville, children, Opal Durrence of Reidsville, Lonnie Harrelson (Carole) of Reidsville, Jeannie Kirkland (Jerry) of Brunswick, Duane Harrelson of Reidsville, and Denise Harrelson of Reidsville, brother, Enoch Harrelson (June) of Baxley, sister, Emma Jean Collins (Gary) of Baxley, and grandchildren, Gene Day (Donna), Heath Harrelson (Rachael), Mark Durrence (Tammy), Johnny Durrence (Elaine), and Justin Kirkland (Brittany). 13 great grandchildren, four great-great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews also survive.
Visitation was held at 12:00 p.m. Saturday December 15, 2018, at Pineview Baptist Church. Funeral Services followed at 2:00 p.m. Burial was at the Pineview Church Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Mark Durrence, Johnny Durrence, Heath Harrelson, Justin Kirkland, Eli Lively, and Mickey McBroom.
Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home, Glennville, Georgia was in charge of the arrangements.
ROBERT BROOKS MAYERS
Robert Brooks Mayers (Bobby) was born in Hazlehurst, on July 19, 1944, to Earl Curtis Mayers and Irene Estelle Mayers of Baxley. He graduated from Appling County High School in 1962 where he served as President of the senior class. He earned a BBA from Georgia Southern University, Statesboro and an MBA from Georgia State University, Atlanta, 1968. There he was elected to Beta Gamma Sigma, a national business honor society.
He began his career at First National Bank of Atlanta in 1968, as a money management sales specialist. He was later promoted to Senior Vice President where he continued to serve as First Atlanta’s money market division. After a merger with Wachovia Bank, he eventually retired in 1997 from Wachovia Bank as Senior Vice President and Group Executive.
He was a member of the Roswell United Methodist Church where he served on the Administrative Board. During that time, he played a major role in funding for a new sanctuary. His home church was Zoar United Methodist Church in Baxley, where he had attended throughout his lifetime. It was beloved as it represented “family” to him.
In 2013, he moved to St. Simons Island, where he resided until 2017. There he was active in several local organizations where he very much enjoyed retirement life with the beach, fishing, golf, and devoted friends. He mostly enjoyed relaxing on his back patio where he could look across the street at a beautiful Episcopal Church’s lovely garden with an eroded crucifix. He played a major role in replacing it with a sculpted wooden one of which he was most proud.
He relocated to Roswell, to be near his family. He spent many happy hours with old friends, fishing and other activities with his grandson.
He is survived by his wife Roslyn, of Milton, his daughter Catherine, of Milton and his beloved grandson Cameron Brooks Brown, of Milton.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, December 4, 2018, at 11:00 a.m., at Zoar United Methodist Church, 9091 Zoar Road, Baxley, GA. 31513, with Rev. Tommy Lewis, Rev. Danita Knowles and a eulogy by Jamey Propost. Interment followed in Zoar Cemetery.
The Cross bearer was Cameron Brooks Brown and the pallbearers were Colby Mayers, Cameron Mayers, Edsel Mayers, Sloan Lott, Jason Lott, Robert Cain and Joel Montes.
Musical selections were rendered by Jeff Lewis, Roger and SongJa Cain and the congregation.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Zoar Cemetery Fund (c/o Rita Boyette 2915 Nail Rd. Baxley, GA. 31513) or The Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org).
Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
He began his career at First National Bank of Atlanta in 1968, as a money management sales specialist. He was later promoted to Senior Vice President where he continued to serve as First Atlanta’s money market division. After a merger with Wachovia Bank, he eventually retired in 1997 from Wachovia Bank as Senior Vice President and Group Executive.
He was a member of the Roswell United Methodist Church where he served on the Administrative Board. During that time, he played a major role in funding for a new sanctuary. His home church was Zoar United Methodist Church in Baxley, where he had attended throughout his lifetime. It was beloved as it represented “family” to him.
In 2013, he moved to St. Simons Island, where he resided until 2017. There he was active in several local organizations where he very much enjoyed retirement life with the beach, fishing, golf, and devoted friends. He mostly enjoyed relaxing on his back patio where he could look across the street at a beautiful Episcopal Church’s lovely garden with an eroded crucifix. He played a major role in replacing it with a sculpted wooden one of which he was most proud.
He relocated to Roswell, to be near his family. He spent many happy hours with old friends, fishing and other activities with his grandson.
He is survived by his wife Roslyn, of Milton, his daughter Catherine, of Milton and his beloved grandson Cameron Brooks Brown, of Milton.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, December 4, 2018, at 11:00 a.m., at Zoar United Methodist Church, 9091 Zoar Road, Baxley, GA. 31513, with Rev. Tommy Lewis, Rev. Danita Knowles and a eulogy by Jamey Propost. Interment followed in Zoar Cemetery.
The Cross bearer was Cameron Brooks Brown and the pallbearers were Colby Mayers, Cameron Mayers, Edsel Mayers, Sloan Lott, Jason Lott, Robert Cain and Joel Montes.
Musical selections were rendered by Jeff Lewis, Roger and SongJa Cain and the congregation.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Zoar Cemetery Fund (c/o Rita Boyette 2915 Nail Rd. Baxley, GA. 31513) or The Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org).
Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
WANDA JOYCE CARVER FOSKEY
Wanda Joyce Carver Foskey, age 66, of Baxley, died Saturday, December 1, 2018.
Ms. Foskey was born September 29, 1952, in Coffee County to Charles Alton Carver and the late Gloris Irene Fowler Carver. She was a member of Big Oaks Church of God and was retired from Hazlehurst Mills. In addition to her mother, Ms. Foskey was preceded in death by a son, Jimmy Scott Anderson.
Survivors include her daughters and sons in law, Sandee and John Oxendine and Wendy and Casey Hutcheson all of Baxley; father, Alton (Brenda) Carver of West Green; sister, Shirley (David) Jump of West Green; brother, Donnie (Tammy) Carver of West Green; daughter in law, Julie White Anderson of Douglas. A granddaughter, Leah Hutcheson and three grandsons, Caleb Oxendine, Michael Oxendine and Isaac Oxendine and three step grandchildren also survive.
A memorial service was held Sunday, December 9, 2018, at 4:00 p.m., at Big Oaks Church of God with Rev. Mark Grimes and Rev. Craig Jump officiating.
Honorary pallbearers were members of the Big Oaks Church of God Sanctuary Sunday school class.
Musical selections were rendered by Big Oaks Church of God Choir, Wayne and Becky Crummey and Joe Davenport.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
Ms. Foskey was born September 29, 1952, in Coffee County to Charles Alton Carver and the late Gloris Irene Fowler Carver. She was a member of Big Oaks Church of God and was retired from Hazlehurst Mills. In addition to her mother, Ms. Foskey was preceded in death by a son, Jimmy Scott Anderson.
Survivors include her daughters and sons in law, Sandee and John Oxendine and Wendy and Casey Hutcheson all of Baxley; father, Alton (Brenda) Carver of West Green; sister, Shirley (David) Jump of West Green; brother, Donnie (Tammy) Carver of West Green; daughter in law, Julie White Anderson of Douglas. A granddaughter, Leah Hutcheson and three grandsons, Caleb Oxendine, Michael Oxendine and Isaac Oxendine and three step grandchildren also survive.
A memorial service was held Sunday, December 9, 2018, at 4:00 p.m., at Big Oaks Church of God with Rev. Mark Grimes and Rev. Craig Jump officiating.
Honorary pallbearers were members of the Big Oaks Church of God Sanctuary Sunday school class.
Musical selections were rendered by Big Oaks Church of God Choir, Wayne and Becky Crummey and Joe Davenport.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
GENE ERDMAN
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory announces the funeral services for Gene Erdman, age 77, who passed away Sunday, December 2, 2018. He was a native of Berwick, PA living in Appling County for the past 30 years. Mr. Erdman was a retired electrician, worked 10 years at Baxley Walmart and attended Hopewell United Methodist Church.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Gray Erdman; son, Gene Lynn Erdman; daughter, Clarinda Broyan; parents, Arthur and Margaret Klock Erdman and brother, Robert Erdman.
Survivors include his three sons and daughters in-law, Sloan and Christine Erdman of Yulee, FL, Loren Erdman of Jacksonville, FL and Byron and Brenda Erdman of Berwick, PA; nine grandchildren, Brittany and Sean Douglas, Alexis and Aaron Erdman-Sarver, Jeffrey Erdman, Bryce and Andrea Broyan, Brooklyn Erdman, Brandon Erdman, Brian Erdman, Michelle and Corey Milheim and Savannah Wilkes; eleven great grandchildren; one brother, Ronald Erdman of Berwick, PA; two sisters, Betty Hathorne of New York and Marie Ruhmel of Berwick, PA; several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Saturday, December 8, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. at Nobles Funeral Home Chapel with the Reverend Bobby Gale officiating.
Visitation was held one hour prior to the funeral services at the funeral home.
Friends and family may sign the online guest book at noblesfh.com.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Gene Erdman.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Gray Erdman; son, Gene Lynn Erdman; daughter, Clarinda Broyan; parents, Arthur and Margaret Klock Erdman and brother, Robert Erdman.
Survivors include his three sons and daughters in-law, Sloan and Christine Erdman of Yulee, FL, Loren Erdman of Jacksonville, FL and Byron and Brenda Erdman of Berwick, PA; nine grandchildren, Brittany and Sean Douglas, Alexis and Aaron Erdman-Sarver, Jeffrey Erdman, Bryce and Andrea Broyan, Brooklyn Erdman, Brandon Erdman, Brian Erdman, Michelle and Corey Milheim and Savannah Wilkes; eleven great grandchildren; one brother, Ronald Erdman of Berwick, PA; two sisters, Betty Hathorne of New York and Marie Ruhmel of Berwick, PA; several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Saturday, December 8, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. at Nobles Funeral Home Chapel with the Reverend Bobby Gale officiating.
Visitation was held one hour prior to the funeral services at the funeral home.
Friends and family may sign the online guest book at noblesfh.com.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Gene Erdman.
Rodney Cox
Mr. Rodney Cox was born on August 3, 1962 to the late Lerisher and Essie Mae Cox.
Sput, as he was affectionately known, enjoyed cooking and he was given the title “Chef” by his family. In addition to having excellent culinary skills, he was a lover of the outdoors. He enjoyed farming and landscaping. He was employed with Baxley Veneer and Cleat Mill, Tapley Construction, and McDonald’s restaurant.
On November 29, 2018 he departed this life for his Heavenly home. He was preceded in death by his parents; Wiliam and Alberta Lowery; brothers, Gerald Cox and Donnie Love.
Fond memories of Sput will be cherished by his caring children: Nathia Williams and Carl Williams, both of Valdosta; devoted sisters: Lula Cox and Norma Jean Erwin, both of Baxley, devoted brothers: Thomas Cox, Bruce Cox (Alice), of Baxley, Lersher Ellison of Willacooche, Larry Nails and Dwight Nails (Flonnie) of Baxley, loving and caring fiancé: Loretta Brewton of Glennville, loving aunts: Louise Graham and Sarah Lowery, both of Leesburg, FL: and Jacqueline Connelly of Lorton, VA; devoted uncles: Carnell Lowery (Joyce) of San Antonio, TX, George Lowery (Edna), Joe L. Lowery, and James Lowery, all of Leesburg FL; caring sister-in-law: Tammy Cox of Atlanta: devoted nieces and nephews: Trelicia “Sha”, Tangela Tristian, Bridgett S., LaDonna, Bridgett D., Cassondra, Casey, Courtney, Thomas, Orondai “Pele”, Spencer, Donnie Geno, Kevin, Mark and Paul; loving godmother: Mozella Hall of Baxley, loving godchildren: Khaliyah Jenkins, Keyana Williams, and Brandon Campbell; as a special sister Etha Carter (Billy) and Rosa Roberson of Baxley; as devoted brothers: James Merriweather of Las Vegas, NV. and Lorenza Hall of Baxley. Special neighbors: Evangelist Shirley Robinson and Selena Jones and family; special friends: Sandra Williams, Katrina Myles,Arlene Williams, Kim Tinsley, Alla Jean Williams, Hattie Mae Hood, Latoya Crosby, Lynette Holmes, Elaine Williams, Lee Otis Williams, Robert Charles Williams, Karen Coley, Lacy Jackson, staff and residence of Glenvue Health and Rehabilitation; special cousins: Lowery Nails, and Richburg families. He will also be missed by a host of other relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Life Ceremony was held Saturday December 8, 2018 11:00A.M. at First African Baptist Church with Pastor Moses Eason, Sr. presiding and giving the invocation.
Old Testament Scripture Reading by Pastor James Hayes and New Testament Scripture Reading by Prophetess Lisa Stevens. Solo by Mr. Jamie Nails.
Reflections were given by Minister Barbara Curry. Musical selections given by First African Baptist Church Choir and Gwen Ryals. Words of Comfort given by Pastor Johnny M. Blair.
Active Pallbearers: Thomas Fullmore, Oronadia Cox, Spencer Cox, Donnie Love, Lee Otis Willams, Robert Charles Williams, Marcus carter, and Tracy Sailem.
Honorary Pallbearers: Mrs. Velma Lewis, Mrs. Rebecca Ogden, Mrs Carolyn Reaves, Mrs. Ida Wooten, Mr. and Mrs. Oliver and Rutha Hall, Mrs. Patricia Carter, and Minister Zack Walton and family.
Interment was held at Mizpah Baptist Church Cemetery. Repast was held at First African Missionary Baptist Church Social Hall.
Professional Services were entrusted to Baxley Funeral Home.
Sput, as he was affectionately known, enjoyed cooking and he was given the title “Chef” by his family. In addition to having excellent culinary skills, he was a lover of the outdoors. He enjoyed farming and landscaping. He was employed with Baxley Veneer and Cleat Mill, Tapley Construction, and McDonald’s restaurant.
On November 29, 2018 he departed this life for his Heavenly home. He was preceded in death by his parents; Wiliam and Alberta Lowery; brothers, Gerald Cox and Donnie Love.
Fond memories of Sput will be cherished by his caring children: Nathia Williams and Carl Williams, both of Valdosta; devoted sisters: Lula Cox and Norma Jean Erwin, both of Baxley, devoted brothers: Thomas Cox, Bruce Cox (Alice), of Baxley, Lersher Ellison of Willacooche, Larry Nails and Dwight Nails (Flonnie) of Baxley, loving and caring fiancé: Loretta Brewton of Glennville, loving aunts: Louise Graham and Sarah Lowery, both of Leesburg, FL: and Jacqueline Connelly of Lorton, VA; devoted uncles: Carnell Lowery (Joyce) of San Antonio, TX, George Lowery (Edna), Joe L. Lowery, and James Lowery, all of Leesburg FL; caring sister-in-law: Tammy Cox of Atlanta: devoted nieces and nephews: Trelicia “Sha”, Tangela Tristian, Bridgett S., LaDonna, Bridgett D., Cassondra, Casey, Courtney, Thomas, Orondai “Pele”, Spencer, Donnie Geno, Kevin, Mark and Paul; loving godmother: Mozella Hall of Baxley, loving godchildren: Khaliyah Jenkins, Keyana Williams, and Brandon Campbell; as a special sister Etha Carter (Billy) and Rosa Roberson of Baxley; as devoted brothers: James Merriweather of Las Vegas, NV. and Lorenza Hall of Baxley. Special neighbors: Evangelist Shirley Robinson and Selena Jones and family; special friends: Sandra Williams, Katrina Myles,Arlene Williams, Kim Tinsley, Alla Jean Williams, Hattie Mae Hood, Latoya Crosby, Lynette Holmes, Elaine Williams, Lee Otis Williams, Robert Charles Williams, Karen Coley, Lacy Jackson, staff and residence of Glenvue Health and Rehabilitation; special cousins: Lowery Nails, and Richburg families. He will also be missed by a host of other relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Life Ceremony was held Saturday December 8, 2018 11:00A.M. at First African Baptist Church with Pastor Moses Eason, Sr. presiding and giving the invocation.
Old Testament Scripture Reading by Pastor James Hayes and New Testament Scripture Reading by Prophetess Lisa Stevens. Solo by Mr. Jamie Nails.
Reflections were given by Minister Barbara Curry. Musical selections given by First African Baptist Church Choir and Gwen Ryals. Words of Comfort given by Pastor Johnny M. Blair.
Active Pallbearers: Thomas Fullmore, Oronadia Cox, Spencer Cox, Donnie Love, Lee Otis Willams, Robert Charles Williams, Marcus carter, and Tracy Sailem.
Honorary Pallbearers: Mrs. Velma Lewis, Mrs. Rebecca Ogden, Mrs Carolyn Reaves, Mrs. Ida Wooten, Mr. and Mrs. Oliver and Rutha Hall, Mrs. Patricia Carter, and Minister Zack Walton and family.
Interment was held at Mizpah Baptist Church Cemetery. Repast was held at First African Missionary Baptist Church Social Hall.
Professional Services were entrusted to Baxley Funeral Home.
JUDY L. CARTER
Judy L. Carter, age 70, of Baxley, died Saturday, December 1, 2018, at Meadows Regional Medical Center in Vidalia.
Mrs. Carter was born June 4, 1948, in Moultrie, to the late Rev. John Miles Lewis and the late Eula Dee Weldon Lewis. She was a member of Spring Branch Baptist Church and was a homemaker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Kayla Jo White, a sister, Betty Joe Miles and brothers, Jack Lewis and Johnny Lewis.
Survivors include her husband, Ruby Carter, Jr. of Baxley; two daughters and son in law, Cindy Carter and Christy and Shane Reeves all of Baxley; son and daughter in law, Rodney and Dedra Carter of Baxley; two brothers and sisters in law, Mike and Angie Lewis of Alston and Kevin and Tammy Lewis of Baxley; brother in law, Kenneth Miles of Concord, N.C; sister in law, Valeria Lewis of Baxley. Grandchildren, Jade Hope Carter, Taylor Ashlyn Carter, Hannah Noel Reeves, Carter Noah Reeves and great grandchildren, Kaiden Tanner Odom and Karalyne Tate Disharoon.
Funeral services were Wednesday, December 5, 2018, at 11:00 a.m., at Spring Branch Baptist Church with Rev. Chip Woodruff, Rev. Lindsey Lewis, Rev. Rick Brown and Rev. Bryan Gill officiating.
Active Pallbearers were Carter Reeves, Kale Lewis, Jordan Lewis, Michael Hutcheson, Tristan Lewis and Greyson Lewis.
Interment followed in Carter Cemetery.
Musical selections were rendered by The Miles Family and The Apostles.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
Mrs. Carter was born June 4, 1948, in Moultrie, to the late Rev. John Miles Lewis and the late Eula Dee Weldon Lewis. She was a member of Spring Branch Baptist Church and was a homemaker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Kayla Jo White, a sister, Betty Joe Miles and brothers, Jack Lewis and Johnny Lewis.
Survivors include her husband, Ruby Carter, Jr. of Baxley; two daughters and son in law, Cindy Carter and Christy and Shane Reeves all of Baxley; son and daughter in law, Rodney and Dedra Carter of Baxley; two brothers and sisters in law, Mike and Angie Lewis of Alston and Kevin and Tammy Lewis of Baxley; brother in law, Kenneth Miles of Concord, N.C; sister in law, Valeria Lewis of Baxley. Grandchildren, Jade Hope Carter, Taylor Ashlyn Carter, Hannah Noel Reeves, Carter Noah Reeves and great grandchildren, Kaiden Tanner Odom and Karalyne Tate Disharoon.
Funeral services were Wednesday, December 5, 2018, at 11:00 a.m., at Spring Branch Baptist Church with Rev. Chip Woodruff, Rev. Lindsey Lewis, Rev. Rick Brown and Rev. Bryan Gill officiating.
Active Pallbearers were Carter Reeves, Kale Lewis, Jordan Lewis, Michael Hutcheson, Tristan Lewis and Greyson Lewis.
Interment followed in Carter Cemetery.
Musical selections were rendered by The Miles Family and The Apostles.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
BRUCE COLQUITT BOWEN
Bruce Colquitt Bowen, age 92, of Baxley, died Sunday, December 2, 2018, in the Pavilion.
Mr. Bowen was born December 4, 1925, to the late Leroy Bowen and the late Ollie Mae Miles Bowen. He attended Mt. Vernon Baptist Church and was a veteran of the United States Army and a retired farmer.
Mr. Bowen was also preceded in death by his wives, Lizzie Bowen and Verma Lou Bowen; sisters, JoAnn Mincey, Bobbie Whittington and a brother, Wade Bowen.
Survivors include his daughter, Sylvia Griffin of Baxley; son, Corbett Bowen of Baxley; siblings, Colleen Davis and Catheleen (Edsel) Bullard all of Baxley, Faye Gray of Jacksonville, FL, Truman (Yvonne) Bowen and Rita Taylor all of Baxley. Four grandchildren and several great grandchildren also survive.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, December 4, 2018, at 3:00 p.m., at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church with Rev. Darrell Quinn & Rev. Fred Anderson officiating. Interment followed in Deen Cemetery with Military Honors. Taps were rendered by Robbie Tomberlin.
Active pallbearers were Dale Lynch, Aubrey Lynch, Tim Williams, Henry Morris, Jerry Mincey and Curtis Taylor.
Musical selections were rendered by David Williams.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
Mr. Bowen was born December 4, 1925, to the late Leroy Bowen and the late Ollie Mae Miles Bowen. He attended Mt. Vernon Baptist Church and was a veteran of the United States Army and a retired farmer.
Mr. Bowen was also preceded in death by his wives, Lizzie Bowen and Verma Lou Bowen; sisters, JoAnn Mincey, Bobbie Whittington and a brother, Wade Bowen.
Survivors include his daughter, Sylvia Griffin of Baxley; son, Corbett Bowen of Baxley; siblings, Colleen Davis and Catheleen (Edsel) Bullard all of Baxley, Faye Gray of Jacksonville, FL, Truman (Yvonne) Bowen and Rita Taylor all of Baxley. Four grandchildren and several great grandchildren also survive.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, December 4, 2018, at 3:00 p.m., at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church with Rev. Darrell Quinn & Rev. Fred Anderson officiating. Interment followed in Deen Cemetery with Military Honors. Taps were rendered by Robbie Tomberlin.
Active pallbearers were Dale Lynch, Aubrey Lynch, Tim Williams, Henry Morris, Jerry Mincey and Curtis Taylor.
Musical selections were rendered by David Williams.
Arrangements were under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.
JESSIE MAE VAUGHN
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory announces the funeral services of Mrs. Jessie Mae Vaughn, 83, who passed away Sunday, November 25, 2018, at the Pavilion. She was a native and lifelong resident of Appling County. Mrs. Vaughn was a homemaker and a member of Baxley Church of God.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Sherry Vaughn, parents, George Frank and Unity Varnadore Lewis, four brothers and four sisters.
She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Artis Vaughn of Baxley, four children, Miles and Gina Vaughn, George Vaughn, Brenda and David Gruber and Julie and Jimmy Carter all of Baxley, eight children and eleven great grandchildren.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, November 27, 2018, at 2:00 p.m., from the chapel of Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory with the Reverend Lamar Lee, Reverend Andrew Kersey and Reverend Doug Weisel officiating.
Interment followed in the Friendship Congregational Christian Church Cemetery.
Visitation was held one hour prior to services on Tuesday, at the funeral home chapel.
Active pallbearers were her grandsons.
Honorary pallbearers were Young at Heart and the Sanctuary Sunday school class.
The family assembled at the home of Jimmy and Julie Carter at 1486 County Farm Road.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Mrs. Jessie Mae Vaughn.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Sherry Vaughn, parents, George Frank and Unity Varnadore Lewis, four brothers and four sisters.
She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Artis Vaughn of Baxley, four children, Miles and Gina Vaughn, George Vaughn, Brenda and David Gruber and Julie and Jimmy Carter all of Baxley, eight children and eleven great grandchildren.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, November 27, 2018, at 2:00 p.m., from the chapel of Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory with the Reverend Lamar Lee, Reverend Andrew Kersey and Reverend Doug Weisel officiating.
Interment followed in the Friendship Congregational Christian Church Cemetery.
Visitation was held one hour prior to services on Tuesday, at the funeral home chapel.
Active pallbearers were her grandsons.
Honorary pallbearers were Young at Heart and the Sanctuary Sunday school class.
The family assembled at the home of Jimmy and Julie Carter at 1486 County Farm Road.
Nobles Funeral Home and Crematory was honored to serve the family of Mrs. Jessie Mae Vaughn.
CECIL L. REESE
Mr. Cecil Lavern Reese, 87, of Castle Hayne, died Monday, November 26, 2018. He was born July 24, 1931, to Claude L. Reese and Luvincey Dukes Reese.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister Naomi Reese, his brothers Aaron Reese, IL Reese, Hoyt Reese, Howell Reese and Terrell Reese.
Mr. Reese was a beloved family man who loved yard-work and traveling. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War. In addition to Mr. Reese’s service in the military, all of his brothers also served.
Mr. Reese is survived by his wife Betty Reese of the home, sons, Eddie Reese (Debbie) of Burgaw and Curtis Reese (Debbie) of Wilmington, daughters, Janice Stokely (Mike) of Hampstead and Vickie Wilson (Russell) of Wilmington, eight grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, brother Earl Reese and Sister Margaret Bullard.
Visitation was held on Saturday, December 1, from 12:00 – 1:30 p.m., at Coble Ward-Smith Funeral and Cremation Service. A graveside service immediately followed at 2:00 p.m., at Oleander Memorial Gardens with Full Military Honors.
Online condolences may be made at coblewardsmithwilmington.com.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister Naomi Reese, his brothers Aaron Reese, IL Reese, Hoyt Reese, Howell Reese and Terrell Reese.
Mr. Reese was a beloved family man who loved yard-work and traveling. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War. In addition to Mr. Reese’s service in the military, all of his brothers also served.
Mr. Reese is survived by his wife Betty Reese of the home, sons, Eddie Reese (Debbie) of Burgaw and Curtis Reese (Debbie) of Wilmington, daughters, Janice Stokely (Mike) of Hampstead and Vickie Wilson (Russell) of Wilmington, eight grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, brother Earl Reese and Sister Margaret Bullard.
Visitation was held on Saturday, December 1, from 12:00 – 1:30 p.m., at Coble Ward-Smith Funeral and Cremation Service. A graveside service immediately followed at 2:00 p.m., at Oleander Memorial Gardens with Full Military Honors.
Online condolences may be made at coblewardsmithwilmington.com.
EDWIN EARL MULLIS
Edwin Earl Mullis, 78, of Alma, passed away on Monday, November 26, 2018, at Satilla Hospice Home in Waycross, after a short illness. He was born in Alma, on September 20, 1940, to the late Vernon Earl Mullis and Melinda “Opal” Pierce Mullis.
Mr. Mullis was retired as a Lineman from IBEW Jacksonville, Florida, a Georgia Licensed Contractor and a heavy equipment operator. He was a member of Big Creek Baptist Church and served as a deacon for over 40 years.
Survivors include his wife of 57 years, JoAnn Peacock Mullis of Alma, Dr. Gary Edwin Mullis of Baxley, two daughters, Cathy Elaine Mullis Wills (Charles) of Ambrose and Debra Ann Mullis Tanner (Shane) of Alma, one brother, Jeff Mullis (Peggy) of Alma, two sisters, Ella Faye Mullis Smith of Miami, FL. and Patricia Ann Mullis Lucas (Sidney) of Waycross, four grandchildren, Andrew Charles Wills, Alex Ashley Wills, Allie JoLynn Tanner and Graycen Ann Tanner, several nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral services were held Thursday, November 29, at 2:00 p.m., at Big Creek Baptist Church with the Rev. Vic Peacock, Rev. R. B. Gaskins, Rev. Edmund Thrift, Rev. David Miller and Rev. Rick Darby officiating.
Interment followed in the church cemetery. The family received friends at the funeral home on Wednesday evening from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Active pallbearers were Pat Tanner, Lee Watson, Andrew Wills, Alex Wills, Houston Jarrard, Lonnie Strickland, Gene Vickers, Jerry Barber and Roger Adams.
Honorary pallbearers were Jimmy Rimes, Dennie Head, Nell Head Leon Lee, Gloria Ann McKinnon, Millie Taylor, Rogery Haselden, Renotta Batten, Justine Sexton, Men and Women of Big Creek Baptist Church, the Class of 1958 and all others in attendance.
Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Mullis was retired as a Lineman from IBEW Jacksonville, Florida, a Georgia Licensed Contractor and a heavy equipment operator. He was a member of Big Creek Baptist Church and served as a deacon for over 40 years.
Survivors include his wife of 57 years, JoAnn Peacock Mullis of Alma, Dr. Gary Edwin Mullis of Baxley, two daughters, Cathy Elaine Mullis Wills (Charles) of Ambrose and Debra Ann Mullis Tanner (Shane) of Alma, one brother, Jeff Mullis (Peggy) of Alma, two sisters, Ella Faye Mullis Smith of Miami, FL. and Patricia Ann Mullis Lucas (Sidney) of Waycross, four grandchildren, Andrew Charles Wills, Alex Ashley Wills, Allie JoLynn Tanner and Graycen Ann Tanner, several nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral services were held Thursday, November 29, at 2:00 p.m., at Big Creek Baptist Church with the Rev. Vic Peacock, Rev. R. B. Gaskins, Rev. Edmund Thrift, Rev. David Miller and Rev. Rick Darby officiating.
Interment followed in the church cemetery. The family received friends at the funeral home on Wednesday evening from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Active pallbearers were Pat Tanner, Lee Watson, Andrew Wills, Alex Wills, Houston Jarrard, Lonnie Strickland, Gene Vickers, Jerry Barber and Roger Adams.
Honorary pallbearers were Jimmy Rimes, Dennie Head, Nell Head Leon Lee, Gloria Ann McKinnon, Millie Taylor, Rogery Haselden, Renotta Batten, Justine Sexton, Men and Women of Big Creek Baptist Church, the Class of 1958 and all others in attendance.
Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
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