The News and Farmer - Obituaries

Mrs. Gail Delores Jenkins Carter, of 86 West Smith Street, Wadley, departed this life Thursday, Jan. 19, 2017 at the Augusta University Hospital.

Mrs. Carter was a native of Blackville, S.C. She was born the daughter to the parentage of the late Elijah Jenkins, Sr., and Thelma Williams Jenkins. She was united in holy matrimony to William Carter. While living in Blackville, S.C. she joined and worshipped at the Bethlehem Baptist Church, and after to moving to Wadley in 2001 she later became a member of the Salters Grove Missionary Baptist Church where she singed in the choir. She was a 1983 graduate of the Barnwell High School, and was formally employed with IGA as a scan coordinator.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and seven siblings; Corine Smalls, Larry Jenkins, Albert Jenkins, Shirley Ann Evans, John Jenkins, Joseph Williams, and Thelma Mae Jenkins, and one grandchild; Frankie Lee III.

Survivors include her loving husband, William Carter, Barnwell, S.C.; children Benjamin Jenkins, Barnwell, and Franchesa Carter (Frankie, Jr.) Bass, Wadley; siblings Elijah Jenkins, Jr., Barnwell, Willie Jean (Patricia) Jenkins, Charleston, S.C., Herbert Lee Jenkins, Atlanta, Terry Williams, Texas, Pernell Jenkins, Maryland, Patricia Ann (Arbleey) Wright, Barnwell, Annie Evelyn Washington, Boston, MA, Betty (Rev. Bennie) Wiggins, Barnwell, and Peggy (Freddie) Crumiell, Allendale, S.C.; grandchildren TaMiracle Carter, Aubreanna Bass, and Benjamin Jenkins, Jr.; sisters-in-law Maudestine Williams, Allendale , Marie Jenkins, Brunswick, and Patricia Williams, Greensville, S.C.; godchildren Shantavia Smith, Tanzy Moore, Demain Smith, and LaShunda Boatwright; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be conducted Wednesday, Jan. 25, at 1:30 p.m. at the Salters Grove Missionary Baptist Church, Bartow. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Family may be contacted at the residence of her daughter and son-in-law; 250 Cody Street, Wadley, or at Davis Funeral Home, Louisville.

You may sign the family personal guestbook online at; www.davisfuneralhomega.com, of join us on Facebook at; Davis Funeral Home.

Davis Funeral Home, 725 Beech Street, Louisville, Georgia 30434 is in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Gail Delores Jenkins Carter.

Taylor Funeral Home of Louisville announces the death and funeral services of Mr. Lawrence Thomas “Todd” Forrest, III., age 37, of River Road, Wadley, who died Monday morning, Jan. 23, 2017.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28, at the Louisville First Baptist Church with Rev. Scott Pope, Chief Jimmy Butts and Mr. Doodle Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Parkers United Methodist Church Cemetery, Bartow. Pallbearers will be the members of the Wadley Police Department. Honorary pallbearers will be Todd’s classmates of the Ogeechee Technical College Law Enforcement Academy.

Mr. Forrest was a son of the late Lawrence Thomas Forrest, Jr. and Peggy Aldred Wood of Wadley. He was a 1998 graduate of Jefferson County High school and a police officer for the Wadley Police Department. He was enrolled at Ogeechee Technical College Law Enforcement Academy where he was taking Basic Mandate Training classes.

Todd is preceded in death by his father and grandfather, Edward Aldred and is survived by his sons, Trevor Forrest of Wadley and Isaiah Forrest of Thomson; mother and step father, Peggy and Barry Wood of Wadley; brother, Corey and Valerie Forrest; niece, McKenzie Forrest; nephew, EJ Forrest all of Louisville; grandmother, Joe Ann Aldred of Bartow; fiancée, Libby McGahen and her children, Skyler and Christy McGahen all of Wadley; special friend, Sandra Michelle Kotlan; several aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family request memorials be made to Louisville First Baptist Church, 101 E 9th St., Louisville, Ga. 30434.

You may sign the family’s personal guestbook online at www.taylorfhlouisville.com.

Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Louisville is in charge of arrangements.

Taylor Funeral Home of Gibson announces the death and funeral services of Mrs. Margie Poole Chalker, age 86 of Gibson, who died Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017.

Funeral services were held at 3 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 29, at Taylor Funeral Home with Mr. Jack McCorkle officiating. Burial followed in the Millcreek Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be: Chris Chalker, Quenton Weber, Eric Keller, Mike Beamon, Seth Williams, Cason Chalker and Steven Marsh.

A native of Glascock County, Mrs. Chalker was the daughter of the late Tillman Poole and Orie Underwood Poole. Margie was a Supervisor seamstress at the Gibson Garment Factory. She was an active, lifetime member of Millcreek Baptist Church.

Mrs. Chalker was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, James Poole and Joe Poole, and is survived by her daughters, Lois and Robert Channell of Bailey, NC and Attis Keller of Thomson; son Louie and Ponda Chalker of Avera; nine grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family request memorials be made to Millcreek Baptist Church Cemetery.

You may sign the family’s personal guestbook online at www.taylorfhgibson.com.

Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Gibson is in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Inell Smith Cunningham was born on Aug. 6, 1950 to the parentage of the late Estella Avery Smith and Eather Smith. She was educated in the Jefferson County School and at an early age she joined and worshipped at Stone Springfield African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Mrs. Cunningham was a seamstress at Chardan Incorporated in Thomson, Georgia. She was a dedicated wife, mother, and sister. On Friday, Jan. 13, 2017 at her residence she went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Mrs. Cunningham’s brother Richard Smith preceded her in death.

On Nov. 21,1976 she was united Holy Matrimony to George Cunningham, Sr. To this union two children were born, George Cunningham, Jr., and Angela Cunningham.

She encouraged all to have faith, love, hope, patience and confidence in God. Her legacy will forever be remembered by her devoted husband, George Cunningham, Sr. of 40 years, her loving and devoted children George (Michelle) Cunningham, Jr.,of North Augusta, SC, and Angela Cunningham of Stapleton; grandchild, Melissa Cobb of North Augusta; her siblings, Mae Frances (Glenn) Johnson of Augusta, Janice (Stephen) Johnson, Vernida (Frankie) Nesby both of Mocksville, NC, Geneva Williams of Waynesboro, Pauline (Jeremiah) Roberts, David (Antoine) Smith both of Louisville, Henry (Mary) Smith of Wrens, James (Teresa) Smith of Atlanta and Robert (Ann) Smith of Augusta; one sister-in-law, Sadie Cunningham of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., brothers-in-law, John (Marilyn) Cunningham, Jr. of Ft. St. Lucie, Fla.,Terry (Vanessa) Cunningham of Ft. Lauderdale, and Willie Morris (Sandra) Cunningham of Orlando, Fla.; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

A funeral service was held on Wednesday, Jan. 18, at 11a.m. at the Stone Springfield A.M.E. Church, Stapleton with the Rev. Forrest Dickey, Pastor, Eulogist and Rev. Alvin Lewis, Jr., Presider. Interment was in the church cemetery.

Freeman Funeral Home 402 Curtis St., Wrens was in charge of arrangements.

Richard Allan Malone, 67, affectionately known as Rick, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Savannah.

Rick was born on Dec. 1, 1949 in Atlanta, to the late Art and Mary Malone. He was a 1967 Graduate of Wayne County High School. Rick began his college career soon after and graduated from the University of Georgia in 1972 before receiving his Doctorate of Law from John Marshall Law School in 1975. He served as District Attorney of the Middle Judicial Circuit for twenty years and was executive director of the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia for ten years. Rick was awarded District Attorney of the year in 1990 and was Past President of the District Attorney’s Association of Georgia and the National Association of Prosecutor Coordinators. He was co founder of the Sunshine House Child Abuse Prevention Center in Swainsboro, GA and was past chairman of the Prosecuting Attorney’s Council of Georgia as well as the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council of Georgia. Rick was also a member of the choir at First Baptist Church of Jesup and had taken up oil painting during his retirement. He enjoyed painting lessons given by his dear friends, two very accomplished local artists, the late Dot Kennerly and her daughter, Linda Wasdin and sitting on the porch with his dog, Jack. In addition to his parents, his brother, Karl A. Malone, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 47 years, Diana Meadows Malone of Jesup; two sons and daughters-in-law, Allan and Frankie Malone of Swainsboro, and Andrew and Jennifer Malone of Reidsville; one sister, Sheryl Keener and husband, Tom of Yulee, FL; five granddaughters, Ansley Malone of Swainsboro, Marlee Dasher of Reidsville, Lexi Malone of Vidalia, Lani Malone of Vidalia, and Jenna Dasher of Reidsville; sisters and brothers-in-law, Lynn and Alan Jones of Jesup, Brenda and Barry Thompson of Lyons, Angela Sconyers of Swainsboro and Martha Malone of Quitman; 22 nieces and nephews and 22 great nieces and nephews.

Memorial services were held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29, at the First Baptist Church of Jesup with Dr. Michael VonMoss and Rev. Marc Foster officiating. The family received friends from 1:30 p.m. until the funeral hour at the church.

Private interment services were held at a later date in the family cemetery.

Honorary pallbearers will be Past and Present District Attorney’s in Georgia, past and present employees of the District Attorney of the Middle Circuit’s office, past and present members of the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia, past and present employees of the Wayne county District Attorney’s Office, the First Baptist Church Choir, all Judges in attendance, Joann and Harley Grove, Martha and Buddy Cobb, Susan and Eddie Collins, Walt and Melissa Pinder, Jeff and Marlene Griffith, Franklin and Dabney Edenfield, Bill Lindsey, Sherri Edenfield and Kevin Carter.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Jesup First United Methodist Church Agape Fund, 205 E. Cherry St. Jesup, GA 31546, the First Baptist Church of Jesup Capital Campaign Fund P.O. Box 1115, Jesup, GA 31598 or the Sunshine House Children’s Advocacy Center, 328 W. Main St. Swainsboro, GA 30401.

Please sign our guestbook online at www.jesupfuneralhome.com

Howard & Jones Funeral Home of Jesup are in charge of arrangements.

Ann Thompson Milburn, 73, loving wife of Hiram W. Milburn, entered into her eternal rest Tuesday evening, Jan. 31, 2017 at her residence.

Funeral services will be held in the James Funeral Home Chapel at 1 p.m. Friday afternoon, Feb. 3, with Rev. Jason Burton officiating. Interment will follow in the Wrens Church of God Cemetery on Campground Road, Matthews.

One of three girls born to the late Eva Kitchens Thompson and the late Eddie Lee Thompson, Ann was a lifelong resident of Jefferson County and attended Wrens High School. She loved her Lord and Savior, serving Him at Wrens Church of God until her health declined. Ann retired as a bus driver for Jefferson County Board of Education with 29 years of service. She enjoyed fishing, working in her flowers, going to yard sales, consignment shops and antique stores, and riding her golf cart around Stapleton visiting with friends and neighbors. Ann had a fierce determination and strong will but was always available to lend a helping hand. A devoted wife and loving mother, her goal was to provide a safe, comfortable home for her family who she loved unconditionally.

Ann was also preceded in death by her son, Steve Milburn; and her sister, Frances Huff. Other survivors include her children, Angie Wiley (Sport) and Jason M. Milburn; sister, June T. Milburn (Durham); five grandchildren, Kevin Kitchens, Tyler Wiley, Tori Wiley, Tanna Wiley and Ansley Grace Milburn; and nieces, nephews and many friends. Serving as pallbearers will be Andy Huff, Mike Huff, Justin Russell, Justin Usry, Coty Wood and Trey Wood.

The family will received friends at James Funeral Home from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday evening, Feb. 2.

Visit www.JamesFHWrens.com to post condolences and/or photos.

James Funeral Home of Wrens is in charge of arrangements.

Dan Ronald Watson, 83, loving husband of Mary Ann Norton Watson and the late Clara “Ginger” Watson, entered into his eternal rest Tuesday evening, Jan. 31, 2017, at his daughter’s residence in Martinez. Funeral services will be held in the James Funeral Home Chapel at 11 a.m., Saturday morning, Feb. 4, with Rev. Michael McDuffie officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in the Wrens Memorial Gardens cemetery.

One of five sons born to the late Kate Lee Turner Watson and the late Karl Watson, Dan was a native of Florala, AL where he grew up and graduated high school. Loving his country and being a true patriot, he joined the Air Force during which time he met his wife, Ginger. After his honorable discharge, Dan worked as a tile setter in Orlando a few years before becoming a local-haul truck driver. They moved to Lakeland FL in order for him to go to Bible school. Upon completion, they moved to Leitchfield KY to pastor his first church. In 1986, he was called to pastor the Assembly of God Church on Walker Street in Wrens and also hauled locally for Howard Sheppard. He faithfully served the Lord for 20 years, retiring after the passing of his wife. He remarried in 2007, and then retired from trucking in 2009. Dan, a soldier for Christ, never turned down the call to substitute preach in Augusta. He enjoyed being outside working in the yards and building small “crafty” things. But he loved sharing Jesus with everyone with whom he had contact—he loved people and wanted to share the opportunity for an eternity with Jesus. Dan had a great sense of humor, was mild mannered, even tempered and meek. A soldier for his country and for his Lord, Dan has now left this foreign land and gone home to Glory.

Dan was also preceded in death by all of his brothers, Jack Watson, Merrill Watson, Kent Watson and Don Watson. Other survivors include his children, Sandy W. Granade (Michael), Joyce Sheppard, Debra Johnson and Randall Pederson (Sandra); twelve grandchildren, Christopher M. Granade, Kati Martin (Matt), Joshua A. Granade (Kristina), Tjede McDuffie (Michael), Justin J. Granade, Eric Sheppard (Samantha), Austin Gray, Elizabeth Jones (Corey), Heather Brown (Danny), Casey Johnson (Jason), Brandon Beckum (Bobbi) and Wesley Beckum (Shelby); 18 great grandchildern; and many nieces, nephews and friends. Pallbearers will be Christopher Granade, Joshua Granade, Justin Granade, Matt Martin, Michael McDuffie and Randall Pederson.

The family will receive friends at James Funeral Home from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday evening, Feb. 3.

Visit www.JamesFHWrens.com to sign the guestbook and to post condolences.

James Funeral Home of Wrens is in charge of arrangements.

Apostle Joe L. Payge was born Oct. 10, 1934 in Davisboro to the late Jonas Payge and Rosa Lee Braswell. On Jan. 11, 2017, Apostle Payge heard God’s voice saying, “Well done my child, you fought a good fight.”

A ceremony celebrating his life and legacy was held on Monday, Jan. 6, at Miracle Deliverance Church in Edison with Apostle Bobby Frison officiating, eulogy by Pastor Willie Ford.

Apostle Payge was overseer and founder of Miracle Deliverance Center, Inc. Truly an anointed man of God, he didn’t mind letting you know about the God he served. He could often be heard across the church with his favority saying, “Whoopee” and “Amen Lights.” He was a man that never met strangers and a father to many.

Apostle Paye took his wings and left many to celebrate his life and legacy, including a loving wife, Rosemary Helms Payge; children, Mikel (Brenda) Payge, Leon (Dean) Payge of Jacksonville, Fla., April (Anthony) Calloway, Luverne Helms and Steve Helms all of Dothan, Ala.; three sisters, Sara Huff, Shirley (George) Scott all of Rochester, NY, and Betty (R.J.) Lovett of Philadelphia, Penn.; four brothers-in-law, Jasper (Helen) Helms, John (Barbara) Helms, Billy Helms and James Jones of New Jersey; six sisters-in-law, Annie (Apostle Bobby) Fison, Fannie Thomas, Shirley McCree, Millie Minniefield, Ruby Helms, all of Dothan, and Janice Jones of Atlanta; 10 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren, several nieces, nephews and host of cousins, friends and members of MDC Inc. A special thanks to a nephew, William Jordan, Ricky (Karen) Miller and Sally Euford.

Elizabeth Ratzlaff Wenger, 93, loving wife to the late Paul Wenger who passed away in 2004, peacefully entered into her eternal rest Sunday, Feb. 5, 2017 at Moundridge Manor in Kansas. Funeral services in Kansas were held Tuesday, Feb. 7, at Moundridge Funeral Home. Funeral services in Georgia will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 11, at Pinecrest Mennonite Church. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

Elizabeth was born to the late Lavina Becker Ratzlaff and the late Abe Ratzlaff in McPherson County where she married Paul in 1942. After moving to Louisville, they were members of Pinecrest Church of God in Christ Mennonite Church.

Elizabeth was also preceded in death by five brothers and four sisters. Those left to cherish her memory are her three daughters, Ruth Koehn (Orie) of Clarksdale MS, Pauline Koehn (Linwood) of Murray KY, and Wanda Koehn (Gladwin) of Gentry AK; two sons, Harold Wenger (Phyllis) of Louisville, and Howard Wenger (Karla) of Macon MS; a brother, Noah Ratzlaff of Moundridge KS; two sisters, Dessie Wiebe of South Dakota and Gloriann Wedel of Galva; 20 grandchildren; 58 great grandchildren; and five great-great grandchildren.

Memorial contributions are suggested to be made to Moundridge Manor, 710 N. Christian Ave., Moundridge KS 67107.

The family will receive friends at Pinecrest Mennonite Church from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday evening, Feb. 10.

Moundridge Funeral Home in Moundridge KS was in charge of arrangements in Kansas. James Funeral Home, 630 North Main Street, Wrens, was in charge of arrangements in Georgia.

Deacon James Willie Broomfield, of 2214 Nelson Lane, Louisville, departed this life Sunday, Feb. 5, 2017 at his residence.

Mr. Broomfield was a native of Jefferson County. He was born the son to the parentage of the late Willie James Broomfield and Ada Hill Broomfield in Louisville. He was a High School Graduate of the Jefferson County High School Class of 1967. He was a devoted and dedicated member of the Greater Pine Hill Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon, and served for over 20 years in the United States Army.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister; Dorothy Tennyson.

Survivors include his children; Demetic Lamar Broomfield, Maryland, Aletha (Harvey) McGruder Eberhart, Augusta, Felicia Broomfield, and Dearra (Laverne) White, Colorado Spring, CO; sister, Grace Williams, Louisville; grandchildren, Jarvis Broomfield, Javon Broomfield, Charvonne Walker, Rayshawn Dearmon, Keion White, Trayvon White, Teondra McGruder, and Victoria McGruder; great-grandchildren, Jaceyon Walker, Derriale Williams, and Javon Tarver; aunts and uncles, John Henry Broomfield, Louisville, Mary Brizel, Miami, Fla. and Cressie Hill, Louisville; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be conducted Thursday, Feb. 9, at 3 p.m. at the Greater Pine Hill Missionary Baptist Church, Louisville, with Pastor, Reverend Christopher B. Durden as Eulogist. Burial will follow in the Church Cemetery with Military Honors.

Family may be contacted at the residence 2214 Nelson Lane, Louisville, or at Davis Funeral Home.

You may sign the family personal guestbook online at; www.davisfuneralhomega.com, or join us on Facebook at; Davis Funeral Home.

Davis Funeral Home, 725 Beech Street, Louisville, is in charge of arrangements for Deacon James Willie Broomfield.

Mr. Timothy Dale Poss, age 39 of Gibson, died Sunday, Feb. 5, 2017 in Augusta University Medical Center.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 11, at Full Gospel Light House Church, 5727 Purvis School Road, Stapleton with Rev. Ralph Kitchens, Rev. David Kitchens and Mr. Freddie Turner officiating. Pallbearers will be: Ryan Cotton, Steve Morgan, Marshall Thompson, Joshua Kitchens, Jonathan Kitchens, Jeremiah Kitchens and Matthew Kitchens.

Timothy was born Oct. 14, 1977 in Concord, NC to Charles Poss and Pamela Holcomb Poss. He was a service technician with Morgan Heating and Cooling of Augusta and was an active member and Sunday school teacher at Full Gospel Light House Church.

Mr. Poss was preceded in death by his brother, Lewis Poss and is survived by his parents; loving wife, Tiffany Turner Poss; daughter, Cheyanne Lynn Poss; sons, Zachary Poss, Joseph Poss and William Poss; brothers, Steve Greer and Matthew E. Poss; sister, Nina Oakley; uncle, Allman Poss; aunt, Ester Poss; in – law’s Freddie and Tammy Turner; grandparent’s, Rev. Ralph and Ann Kitchens and Agnes Swint; brother in-law, Andrew and Heather Turner, and niece, Reagan Gail Turner.

The Poss family will receive friends from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the church prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Timothy Poss Account at Southern Bank, Gibson, to help assist in the medical bill and funeral costs.

You may sign the family’s personal guestbook online at www.taylorfhgibson.com.

Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Gibson is in charge of arrangements.

William Myers Blount (Bill) was called to the Lord Feb. 5, 2017.

Bill was born May 10, 1932 to Lucile Myers Blount and Asa Holt Blount in Augusta, and resided in Waynesboro and Wadley, graduating from Wadley High in 1949. He enlisted in the Georgia National Guard and served in the Air Force during the Korean War.

In 1953 Bill married Sally Ann Allen of Watertown, NY, moved to College Park while attending Georgia State University and then moved his family to Cobb County, in 1955 where they raised eight children. Bill worked in banking, insurance and real estate for the next 25 years before moving to Waynesburg, PA where he was employed as a right of way agent until his retirement in 1998.

He was married to his second wife, Jane Cole, from Waynesburg, PA until her death in early 1998. He moved to Meridian, MS and married his high school sweetheart, Joanne Battle. There Bill and Joanne were very active in their church and community serving Meals on Wheels for over 16 years until they moved to Canton, in 2014 where they were close to family.

Bill is survived by his wife, Joanne, seven of his children and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Research Foundation or your favorite charity.

A memorial service was held for James “Jim” Edward Fullard, 76, on Feb. 6, 2017 at Canaan Heights Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Thomson. Fullard passed away on Jan. 30.

His journey of life began on Jan. 1, 1941 in Jefferson County.

James was the seventh child born to the late Carrie King Fullard Berry and Jasper Fullard. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Mattie Ruth (Fullard) McFarland, Americus Fullard, Louise (Fullard) Rozier, and a son, Victor Wendell Fullard.

Educated in the Jefferson County school system, he graduated from high school in 1959. After graduation James moved to Miami, Fla. where he lived and worked for several years.

Jim’s pursuits led him to relocate to Philadelphia, PA where he was employed at Temple University while he continued his education. He later moved to Atlanta where he completed a Bachelor of Arts degree from Morehouse College and a Masters of Business Administration degree from Atlanta University.

He enjoyed a rewarding career as an analyst with the Georgia Power Company. When he retired, he returned to Wrens where he reunited with his childhood sweetheart, Willie Ruth “Betty” Johnson. They wed Sept. 25, 2004. Never one to remain idle, Jim became a second language English teacher at Atlanta Technical College.

His initial Christian experiences included membership at the Lofton AME Church and, later in life, he became a faithful member of the Canaan Heights Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Thomson. He served as Sabbath School Superintendent and, in December 2009 he was ordained an elder and served faithfully until his untimely death.

James leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Willie Ruth “Betty” Fullard; a son, Braylon Fullard; two stepsons, Greg Johnson and Raymond Johnson Jr. (Annette); five brothers, Robert L. (Jeanette), Jasper (Patricia), Samuel Lee (Susan), William (Carol), Calvin Steve Berry (Phyllis); two sisters, Ada L. Fullard Kirby (Matthew), Barbara Fullard Jordan; a loving aunt, Oweder Smith; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Burnette Funeral Home of Wrens was in charge of arrangements.

Taylor Funeral Home of Louisville announces the death and funeral services of Mr. Ray Fann, age 87 of Farm Street Wadley, who died Thursday morning, Feb. 9, 2017 in the Vero Health & Rehabilitation of Wadley.

Funeral mass were be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 13, in St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, Louisville with Father Patrick Otor serving as Celebrant. Burial followed in the St. Paul Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery, Bartow. Pallbearers will be: Keith Manuel, Alvin Manuel, Lawerence Ringgo, Alonzo McIntosh, Lamar Johnson, Terri Fann and Frankie Bass.

A native of Johnson County, Mr. Fann was a son of the late Milo Fann and Luella Knight Brown. Ray was a crane operator for over 40 years with Antonio’s and Company. He was a member of St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, Kiwanis Club, a Boy’s Scouts leader in New York and Wadley, a collector of antique cars and well known for his homemade syrup.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his loving wife, Yvonne Fann of Wadley; children, Vivian Stroud of Spring Hill, FL, Carolyn (Laverne) Newsome of Stone Mountain, and Vincent Benjamin of Wadley; sister, Evelyn Brown of Conone, NY; brother, Rev. Johnny (Ethel) Blair of Waycross; grandchildren, Nicole (Charles) Fribbley of Spring Hill, FL, Laverne Newsome, Jr. of Stone Mountain, Reather Lee Newsome of Stone Mountain and Brooke Newsome of Stone Mountain; great grandchildren, Bryan Stroud, Justin Fribbley, and Sean Fribbley, all of Spring Hill, FL; sister in-law’s, Ella Smith of Connecticut, Etheline (Robert) Miles of Delaware, Lillie Mae Lewis of Fayeville, NC and Annette (George) Simmons of Fayeville, NC and brother in-law, Asie Jordan of Augusta.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, P.O. Box 175, Louisville, GA 30434.

You may sign the family’s personal guestbook online at www.taylorfhlouisville.com.

Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Louisville is in charge of arrangements.

Ms. Mattie Pearl Tarver, of Martin Luther King Blvd, Wadley, departed this life Monday, Feb. 7, 2017 at her residence.

Ms. Tarver was a native of McBean, Georgia, but later moved to Jefferson County. She was born to the parentage of Annie Pearl Cunningham and the late Ezell Lynch. She was formally employed with Foster’s Restaurant, and attended and worshipped with the Christian families at Eden Missionary Baptist Church, and Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church.

Survivors include her devoted mother and step-father; Annie Pearl Cunningham Grant and Robert Grant, Louisville, Georgia, children; Tommie Tavarus (Latoya) Tarver, Mableton, Georgia, Felicia (John Grant) Tarver, Wadley, Georgia, and Cassandra (Jeffery) Williams, Louisville, Georgia, siblings; James (Janie) Houston, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Willie Albert Brown, Jr., Louisville, Georgia, Ezell Lynch, Louisville, Georgia, Terry Lynch, and Sherry Lynch Paige, Louisville, Georgia, grandchildren; Jeffery (Keanne Jackson) Williams, Jr., Wrens, Georgia, Quentrell (Ashely Hicks) Williams, Wadley, Georgia, Melvin Grant, Wadley, Georgia, Matthew Grant, Tavarus Tarver, Marlon Tarver, Elijah Tarver, Mableton, Georgia, one great-grandchild; Aliyzah Williams, Wrens, Georgia, aunts and uncles; Edith Ramsey, Louisville, Georgia, Shorlett (Eugene) Hadden, Wadley, Georgia, Teresa (Ron) Phillips, Waynesboro, Georgia, Dorothy (Jerald) Wilson, Louisville, Georgia, Louise Holloway, Louisville, Georgia, Julia Mae Scott, Louisville, Georgia, Orbey Ramsey, Louisville, Georgia, Willie Ramsey, Louisville, Georgia, and Allen Ramsey, Louisville, Georgia, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and friends.

Funeral Services were conducted Saturday, Feb. 11, at 2 p.m. at the Eden Missionary Baptist Church, Louisville. Burial followed in the Church Cemetery.

Family may be contacted at the residence; 622 Martin Luther King Blvd, Wadley, Georgia, or at Davis Funeral Home, Louisville, Georgia.

You may sign the family personal guestbook online at; www.davisfuneralhomega.com, or join us on facebook at; Davis Funeral Home.

Davis Funeral Home, 725 Beech Street, Louisvlle, was in charge of arrangements for Ms. Mattie Pearl Tarver.

Mrs. Emily Cook Farmer, age 95, of Louisville died Saturday evening, Feb.18, 2017.

Funeral services will be held at the graveside in the Louisville city cemetery on Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 11 a.m., with Dr. Bill Cain officiating. Pallbearers will be: Walter Jones, Johnny Jones, Jr., John Gordy, Jr., Tom Watson, David Irwin, Charles Lewis, John Lewis & A.P. Jones, III.

A native of Shady Dale, Georgia, Mrs. Farmer was a daughter of the late Frank E. and Marie Lynch Cook. She was a 1938 graduate of Monticello High School and graduated from Georgia State College for women in 1942 with a degree in mathematics. She taught school in Metter, Waynesboro, and Louisville for many years. Mrs. Farmer was a member of the Louisville Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church where she taught Sunday school. She was also a member of the Rhodes-Plaxico Circle, the Louisville Garden Club, the John Franklin Wren Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Jefferson Historical Society, Delta Kappa Gamma, and the Jefferson County Retired Teachers Association. She loved gardening and crossword puzzles.

Mrs. Farmer was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, William Little Farmer, her daughter Martha Farmer Beard, and her brother, Frank Cook. She is survived by her daughter Mary Farmer Kittner of Ellicott City, MD, her three grandsons, Benjamin Kittner, Jonathan Kittner, and David Kittner, and her extended family at Paula’s Home Place in Louisville.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Louisville Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, 824 Walnut Street, Louisville, GA 30434.

You may sign the family’s personal guestbook online at www.taylorfhlouisville.com. Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Louisville is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Dennis Wayne Roberts, age 80, of Bethel Acres Road Gibson, died Thursday evening, Feb. 9, 2017 at his residence.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at Bethel Methodist Church, Gibson, with Rev. Tommy Anderson officiating.

A native of Crescent City, FL, Dennis is a son of the late Thomas Paul Roberts, Sr. and Bessie Beatrice Nasworthy Roberts. He was a merchandizer with Kraft General Foods for over 45 years and served in the U. S. Army.

Mr. Roberts is preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Thomas Roberts, Kent Roberts, Roger Dale Roberts and Gary Glen Roberts and is survived by his loving wife, Cynthia Jeanne Roberts; daughters, Kimberly Difonza of Windermere, FL, Denise Renee Bailey of Paisley, FL, Bethany Grace Arab of Gibson, and Laurie Allyson Shelton of Gibson; sisters, Barbara Godbolt of Hayesville, NC and Joy Lynn Howell of Hammond, LA; brothers, Bill Roberts of Orange Park, FL, Mike Roberts of Bridgeville, DE and Marlin Roberts of Fernandina Beach, FL, several nieces and nephews.

You may sign the family’s personal guestbook online at www.taylorfhgibson.com.

Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Gibson is in charge of arrangements.

R. Samuel Culvern, E.R. Doc, hummingbird whisperer, tree planter, beach lover, Bible student, chili champion, and classic car dreamer, passed to his new life Feb. 13, 2017.

Multiple Myeloma was a hard row to hoe, but Sam shot every arrow in his arsenal at it, living two years longer than his oncologist had predicted. Sam had a life-long love affair with hunting, eating, spur-of-the-moment trips, shopping, movies, his many canine companions, and a swig now and again of B&B. He loved collecting rare books and spending simple times with his family and friends.

Sam graduated from Louisville Academy in Louisville, Georgia, the University of Georgia, and the Medical College of Georgia. The depth of his roots allowed him to grow into a strong man and capable doctor, but he never ventured too far from his small-town home.

Back in the late 70’s, Sam thought he would bring his “healing” skills and volunteer on some mission trips, but he read in the small print that divorced folks need not apply. He was discouraged and wondered if he would always feel like a second-class Christian. Years later, his dream of helping on medical mission trips opened right up, along with his very happy heart. Hello Mexico and Peru! He considered those mission trips huge highlights in his life, cementing them as constant reminders of Father’s forgiveness, which covers us fully before we ever make any mistakes.

Sam delivered many babies in his initial career as an OB/GYN Doc, but was always a bit disappointed that he couldn’t talk one single woman into naming her baby “Sam.” Since his original goal had been to be a family physician, Emergency Room medicine filled that void to a tee. So many times, Sam would find himself trying to save someone’s life, but failing fast. Then, after trying everything he had been taught and a few tricks he learned along the way, he said the answer seemed to be perfectly placed in his heart. Those experiences taught him that he was definitely the branch, while Christ was obviously the Vine.

Sam took his last breath cradled in the arms of his bride of 29 years, Pamalia. We often talk about the trip of a lifetime, but that day Sam took the trip from a lifetime right into a joy-filled heavenly reunion with his parents, grandparents, best friend JW, and a posse of excited fur babies.

Three other women Sam treasured were his golden-haired daughters, Susan Lake and Anne Summers, and his petite sister in love, Rita Culvern. He raised a bonus son, Chase Ogletree, and gained a daughter in love, bakery boss Brooke who fattened him up between chemo treatments. Sam will be watching over his older brother and grill master, Joe Culvern, and his sons in love, Michael Lake of Peachtree Corners, Georgia, and Mason Summers of Chapin, South Carolina. “Sampa” will have front row seats watching his grandchildren grow up: three handsome grandsons, Lego legend Robert Lake, musical prodigy Patrick Lake, and soccer champ Jake Summers, a granddaughter, friend magnet Caroline Summers, and two bonus granddaughters, consummate reader Elizabeth Ogletree, and Sampa’s coloring comrade Alice Belle Ogletree. A special shout-out to niece Stephanie Hildebrant and husband Ken for hosting some hilarious hunt club “he-man” rib-licking good times that often took Sam days to recover.

Sam considered his long list of accomplishments just God-given gifts. But he did have very fond memories of being a flight surgeon in Vietnam with the U.S. Army, as well as once speaking at a Bible conference on why we should not fear our Father’s Judgment because mercy and deliverance always follow.

A Life Celebration will be held at Sugar Creek Chapel on Hundred Acre Farm in Madison, Georgia, on Saturday, April 1 at 2 p.m., with a reception to follow. Please contact McCommons Funeral Home at (706) 453-2626 for further details.

James William “Billy” Simpkins, 82, beloved husband of 55 years to Mary Alice Owens Simpkins, peacefully entered into his eternal rest Tuesday morning, Feb. 21, 2017, at his residence at Savannah Square Personal Care Home in Blythe. Funeral services with full military honors will be held in the James Funeral Home Chapel at 3 p.m., Friday afternoon, Feb.24, with Dr. Earl Richards and Chaplain Finley Limehouse officiating. Interment will follow in the Blythe United Methodist Church cemetery.

One of six children born to the late Sallie Kate Bunn Simpkins and the late J.Otis Simpkins, Billy was a native of Forsythe but also lived in Mobile AL and Miami FL. A true patriot, he joined the army at the age of 22 and served two tours in Vietnam, receiving several medals include the Silver and Bronze Stars. He retired from the military as a Staff Sergeant in Tactical Communication with over 20 years of service. He then was a Captain with Sizemore Security, retiring with 28 years of service. Billy enjoyed being outside in the peaceful nature, fishing, playing card and board games, especially word search puzzles, cooking and baking. He was very artistic and expressed himself through his paintings. It has been said that he could turn the world on with his smile. Even though he was a quiet, mild-mannered, meek person, Billy had a great sense of humor and never met a strange—he had a way of making people feel comfortable and safe. Beyond all else, he absolutely adored his wife and loved his family. His canine buddies, Mikey and Josh, brought much laughter and joy to his life. A loving husband, dedicated family man and loyal friend, Billy was a soldier for his country and for his Lord. He has now left this foreign land and gone home to Glory.

Billy was also preceded in death by four siblings, Robert Simpkins, Frank Simpkins, and Rose Ivey. Other survivors include his two sisters, Ann Korby (Russell) of Allouez MI, and Lynda Sarkisian (Don) of Seneca SC; sister-in-law, Joann Mullins (Wayne) of Greenville AL; a special niece who was like a daughter, Roseann Fiest (Rick) of Waynesboro; special friends, Bert Johnson, Jerry and Chuck Reeves, Anita Long, Ondell Lay, Charles Jaillette and Suzanne St. Pierre; and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be the Army Honor Guard.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks and gratitude for their love and excellent, loving care to the staff at Savannah Square Personal Care Home and to Ronny Voss, Leigh Alexander and other staff of Regency Hospice.

The family will receive friends at James Funeral Home from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Friday afternoon, Feb. 24, prior to the funeral services.

Visit www.JamesFHWrens.com to sign the guestbook and to post condolences.

James Funeral Home, 630 North Main Street, Wrens GA 30833 was in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Herman Tanner, age 71, of Davisboro, Georgia, died Monday, Feb. 20, 2017 at his residence surrounded by family and friends. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, Feb. 23, at 11 a.m. at Friendship Baptist Church in Bartow. The burial will follow in the church cemetery. Reverends Tom Harrison, Pete Aycock, Steve Keener, and Bobby Williford will officiate.

Pallbearers will be Kevin Cobb, Andy Jones, Brandon Cobb, Aaron Cobb, Christian Cobb, Trevor Cobb, Tucker Cobb, Tyler Jones, Bobby Williford, Phillip Weilbaker and Alan Weilbaker.

Mr. Tanner was a native and lifelong resident of Washington County, Georgia. He was the son of the late Henry Herman Tanner Sr. and the late Grace Robinson Tanner. He served on the City Council of Davisboro, he was a founding member of the Davisboro Fire Department, and he served as a Law Enforcement Officer for Washington County Sheriff’s Dept. and the Town of Davisboro Police Dept. He retired as the Engineer of Maintenance for the Georgia Department of Corrections. Mr. Tanner was an active member of Friendship Baptist Church, where he served as Chairman of the Deacon Board.

Mr. Tanner was affectionately known as Papa to his grandchildren and Uncle Buck to family and friends. He devoted his life to the Lord, his family, his work and community. He is predeceased by two siblings, Eugene Tanner and Barbara Ann T. Harris.

Survivors include; his wife, Cheryl Cobb Tanner; sons, Christopher Herman Tanner, and his wife Ann, and Chadwick Cobb Tanner and his wife Shannon, all of Davisboro; grandchildren, Justin Tanner, Kristin T. Kennedy (Richard), David Linyard, Meghan Linyard, Denver Pingley, Mary Scott Pingley, and Chase Tanner; great-grandchildren, Kayleigh and Lillie Kennedy; and sister, Mary Ethel McNeely.

The family will be at the Tanner residence on 13757 Hwy. 24 East, Davisboro. They will receive friends on Wednesday from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. at the May and Smith Funeral Home in Sandersville.

Donations may be made to: Friendship Baptist Church Renovation Fund c/o Monica Holt, 8080 Friendship Church Rd. Bartow, Ga. 30413, Mighty Men’s Ministries, 3311 Breezy Hill Road, Davisboro, GA. 31018 or Broken Shackle Ranch, 1542 Frances Bridge Road, Davisboro, GA. 31018.

May and Smith Funeral Directors is in charge of these arrangements. www.mayandsmithfuneraldirectors.com

Obit for Mrs. Gail Delores Jenkins Carter

Obit for Mr. Lawrence Thomas "Todd" Forrest III

Obit for Mrs. Margie Poole Chalker

Obit for Mrs. Inell Smith Cunningham

Obit for Mr. Richard Allan Malone

Obit for Mrs. Ann Thompson Milburn

Obit for Mr. Dan Ronald Watson

Obit for Apostle Joe L. Payge

Obit for Mrs. Elizabeth Ratzlaff Wenger

Obit for Deacon James Willie Broomfield

Obit for Mr. Timothy Dale Poss

Obit for Mrs. William "Bill" Myers Blount

Obit for Mr. James "Jim" Edward Fullard

Obit for Mr. Ray Fann

Obit for Mrs. Mattie Pearl Tarver

Obit for Mrs. Emily Cook Farmer

Obit for Mr. Dennis Wayne Roberts

Obit for E. Samuel Culvern, E.R. Doc

Mr. James William "Billy" Simpkins

Obit for Mrs. Herman Tanner