Dr. Benjamin Thomas Jordan

Dr. Benjamin Thomas Jordan, Jr., 79, passed away on Monday, February 21, 2022, at Saint Thomas Hospital after a brief illness.

Graveside services for Dr. Jordan will held on Saturday, February 26, at 11:00 AM, in Molena City Cemetery.

He was born in Zebulon, Georgia, the son of Benjamin Thomas Jordan, Sr. and Mary Grubbs Jordan. 

He was raised in Molena, Georgia amid lush farms and Georgia pines and spent a happy childhood fishing and exploring the land. He developed a love of learning at an early age and became a voracious reader of history, philosophy, psychology, science, and great novels. He received a B.A. in History from Mercer University, an M.Div. in Social Ethics from Yale University and a Ph.d. in Ethics and Society from Emory University. He was a lifelong learner and encouraged his children and students to read at least one book a week to broaden their scope and "become interesting people." He always had a book he was reading with a stack underneath to be read. His great influences were philosophers Plato, Aristotle, Kant, Kierkegaard, Locke and theologians H. Richard Niebuhr and Reinhold Niebuhr. He often quoted Reinhold Niebuhr's serenity prayer and taught his family to pray it daily.

He began his career in higher education at Methodist colleges and universities beginning at Georgetown University in Georgetown, Texas where he created a social internship program for students to serve within their communities. He taught at Huntingdon College in Montgomery, Alabama and later became Dean of the College of Liberal Arts at Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas. After many years in education, he entered the business world with management training and development positions in entertainment, banking, engineering, technical services, and cable networks, including Opryland USA, Opryland Hotel, The Nashville Network, CNN, First American Bank, Comdata Corporation, and Applied Technical Services Corporation.

As an ordained minister in the Tennessee Conference of The United Methodist Church, he began part-time pastoring in small churches in addition to his regular job. He served pastorates in Lobelville, Buffalo, Douglass Chapel, Martin's Chapel, Liberty Chapel, Brewer's Chapel, Mallory's Chapel, Ruth Ensor and Trinity United Methodist Churches. He was a compassionate and uniting minister, and parishioners returned his love in full measure. After retirement, he returned to his great love of teaching at Vanderbilt University School of Engineering where he taught engineering management, ethics and communication for the last 25 years. His students relished his teaching style of blending academic discipline with real world stories and his focus on the importance of living a meaningful life. Students kept in touch with him years after graduation to thank him for showing them not only how to succeed in business but how to succeed in life. He was intelligent, well-read, humble and non-judgmental. He believed everyone had something to offer the world, and he supported others with loyalty and steadfastness. He overcame every obstacle with fearlessness, grace and courage. Everyone he met was touched by his humanity and kindness, and no one ever left his presence without feeling greatly enriched and valued.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Ellen Janes Jordan; his children Benjamin Thomas Jordan III (Chris) and Lara Jordan Oakes (Tim); his grandchildren Ellen Saxon Oakes, Wilson Roger Oakes, Jackson Thomas Jordan, and Lindsey Kyle Jordan; his brother Henry Grubbs Jordan, Sr. (Linda) and sister Nan Jordan Vodde (Ted); his nephew Henry Grubbs Jordan, Jr. (Leah) and nieces Joyce Jordan Corley (Chris) and Elizabeth Vodde Sweeney and their children and many cousins.

Ben always knew and prioritized what was most important, putting first things first in every aspect of his life. He dearly and devotedly loved his family, friends, students and colleagues. He was our rock, our light and our greatest gift, and we will miss and love him forever.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston, GA, is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.

Mrs. Imogene Williams Cook

Mrs. Imogene Williams Cook, age 75, of Thomaston, died Friday, February 25, 2022, at her daughter's residence.

Mrs. Cook was born on March 29, 1946, in Thomaston, to the late Ed Williams, and the late Ruth Daniel Williams. She retired from Harborview as a Dietary Manager after 14 years and was a member of Mountain View Baptist Church. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Alton Herron Cook, and sister, Ann Peters.

Survivors include her daughter, Karen (Todd) Lowe of Thomaston, son, Larry (Bobbi) Cook of Woodbury, brother-in-law, Robbie Peters of Birmingham, Alabama, sister, Betty Hammock of Thomaston, five grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, February 28, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. from Mountain View Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Upson Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends on Sunday, February 27, 2022, from 2:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. at Coggins Funeral Home.

Mrs. Betty J. Cochran

Mrs. Betty J. Cochran, 89, of Culloden, GA, died Thursday, February 24, 2022, at Bolingreen Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Macon. 

Funeral services for Mrs. Cochran will be held on Sunday, February 27, at 3:00 PM, at the Culloden Primitive Baptist Church. Elder Matt Yawn will officiate, and interment will follow in the Roberta City Cemetery. 

The family will receive friends Sunday afternoon from 2:00 until 3:00 PM at the church.

Mrs. Cochran was born March 28, 1932, in Fort Valley, GA. She was the owner and operator of Clip N Curl Beauty Shop in Forsyth for many years. Mrs. Cochran enjoyed shopping and arranging flowers and was an excellent cook. She loved her grandchildren dearly. Mrs. Cochran was a member of the Culloden Primitive Baptist Church.

Mrs. Cochran was preceded in death by her father, Otis Frank Wheeless and step mother, Ruby Wheeless; her husband, Charles Cochran; a son, Franklin Cochran; a sister, Ann Kroboth; and a brother, Billy Wheeless. She is survived by two daughters: Donna (Vic) Ruffin of Culloden, GA, and Kathy (Ron) Richardson of Macon, GA; one son, Michael (Gloria) Cochran, of Barnesville, GA; thirteen grandchildren, thirty-one great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to Culloden Primitive Baptist Church, C/O Mr. Warren Bennett, 4990 Hwy. 83 South, Culloden, GA 31016.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston, GA, is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.

Mr. Dennis Ray Watson

Mr. Dennis Ray Watson, affectionately known as "Bubba" age 63, of Barnesville, died Tuesday, February 22, 2022, at his residence.

Mr. Watson was born on January 4, 1959, in Upson County, to William Marvin Watson and the late Dallas Kirby Watson. He retired as a Lineman at Southern Rivers and was a member of Mt. View Baptist Church. Bubba loved Jesus and his family fiercely. His favorite way to ‘pay it forward’ was to buy someone’s groceries when he was in line at the grocery store. He also loved to give the cashier $5 to ‘give to the next child that comes through your line’. Bubba was always ready to help someone in need and used his knowledge and skills to help friends and strangers alike. He loved to hunt and fish but most of all he loved spending time with his wife and son. They were his pride and joy. He is preceded in death by his mother.

Survivors include his wife, Lora Cukalevski Watson of Barnesville, son, Connor Hatchett of Barnesville, brother, Danny (Connie) Watson of Atlanta, sisters, Donna (Dennis) Fouts of Thomaston, Tracy (Jay) Watson of Thomaston, Crystal (Scottie Stephenson) Collins of The Rock, father and mother-in-law, Josif (Trudy) Cukalevski of Barnesville, brother-in-law, Kevin Figler of Rochester, New York.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, February 26, 2022, at 4:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Coggins Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to, Focus the Fragile Kids Foundation at 3825 Presidential Parkway, Suite 103
Atlanta, GA 30340.

Mr. Billy William Evans Sr.

Mr. Billy William Evans Sr. age 72 passed away Sunday February 20, 2022 at North Fulton Hospital.

Mr. Evans was born on March 26, 1949 in Williamson, Georgia, to the late Edgar Henry Evans, and the late Lula Mae Gibson Evans. He worked in maintenance for the City of Milner. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Karen Banin Evans, brother, David Evans, and sister, Runette Gordy.

Survivors include his daughter, Veronica (Michael) Oglesby of Thomaston, sons, Billy (Sherry) Evans Jr. of Thomaston, Brian Evans of Griffin, brothers, Mark (Christan) Evans of Barnesville, Ronnie (Judy) Evans of Meansville, Graylon (Rhonda) Evans of Thomaston, sisters, Margie Lewis of Meansville, Jackie Lewis of Thomaston, BettyJo (Bobby) Loudermilk of Tacoa, eleven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 26, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Coggins Funeral Home. The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 26, 2022 from 1:00 p.m.- 2:00 p.m. at Coggins Funeral Home.

Mrs. Virginia Bell Taylor

Mrs. Virginia Bell Taylor age 94 of Thomaston Ga, passed away Saturday February 19, 2022 at Riverside Health and Rehab.

Mrs. Taylor was born on December 23, 1927 to the late Johnny Bell and the late Annie Mae Traylor Bell. She was formerly employed with The William Carter Company where she worked in the cutting room for many years. Mrs. Taylor was a member of First Assembly of God, where she taught Sunday school, she was a part of the beautification of the grounds at First Assembly. Mrs. Taylor was a counselor at the Pregnancy Center. One of the highlights of Mrs. Taylor's life, she visited the Holy Land where she was baptized again in the River Jordan. She was a very Godly woman and enjoyed spreading the word of God to her family and friends. She would submit articles to the local papers, sharing her knowledge of the Bible and how it related to current events and the world. It was Mrs. Virginia's life mission to influence the world about God. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of 69 years, Malcolm Taylor, brother, J.J. Bell Jr., and sisters, Montez Coogler, and Betty Crews.


Survivors include her daughters Carol (Tommy) Gravitt of Thomaston Ga, Lynn (Durand) Yates of Thomaston Ga, sisters Doris (Charles) Roberts of Jackson Ga, Mildred Garrett of Thomaston Ga, Glenda (Larry) Dinkins of Thomaston Ga, 3 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday February 22, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Coggins Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Crystal Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends at Coggins Funeral Home on Tuesday February 22, 2022 from 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Mr. Bobby Ryan Crawford

Mr. Bobby Ryan Crawford age 89 of Thomaston Ga, passed away Saturday February 19, 2022 at Upson Regional Medical Center.

Mr. Crawford was born on October 23, 1932 in Thomaston Ga, to the late Ryan Crawford and the late Runelle Gresham Crawford. He worked for the United States Postal Service as a mail carrier for 36 years. Mr. Crawford grew up in Emmaus Church and was a member of Silvertown Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife Patsy Sharp Crawford of Thomaston Ga, daughters Debra (Bill) Seaton of Eatonton Ga, Belinda Gail (Mitch) Baron of Columbus Ga, Joanna Lynn Nichelson of Thomaston Ga, brother David (Connie) Crawford of McDonough Ga, sisters Martha Jean Harrell of Barnesville Ga, Mary Nelle Brownlee of Barnesville Ga, Rosemand (Wayne) Watson of Yatesville Ga, 7 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, 5 great great grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday February 24, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Coggins Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Upson Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at Coggins Funeral Home on Thursday February 24, 2022 from 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Silvertown Baptist Church Soup Kitchen at 300 West Goodrich Ave. Thomaston Ga. 30286.

Mrs. Sherry Wilson Calloway

Mrs. Sherry Wilson Calloway age 74 of Thomaston Ga, passed away Friday February 18, 2022.

Mrs. Calloway was born on March 3, 1947 in Thomaston Ga, to the late Richard Wilson and the late Helen Pearman Wilson. She worked as a switch operator with Thomaston Mills for many years. Mrs. Calloway was a member of Clark's Chapel Baptist Church. In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her husband John W. Calloway.

Survivors include her daughter Kim (Mike) Stewart of Thomaston Ga, Keith (Kim) Tyson of Thomaston Ga, brother Dickey (Linda) Wilson of Barnesville Ga, sister Shawn (Bill) Maddox of Jonesboro Ga, grandchildren Jessica Stewart, Leah Stewart, Mary Kathryn (Nathan) Strickland, Colton Foxx, Addison Bellew, great grandchildren Trace Peaden, Trent Peaden, Tripp Peaden.

Funeral Services will be held on Sunday February 20, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Coggins Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Crystal Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends at Coggins Funeral Home on Sunday February 20, 2022 from 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Mr. Stephan Clark

Mr. Stephan Clark, age 65, of Thomaston, passed away February 15, 2022, at his residence.

Funeral arrangements will be announced later.

Mrs. Susan Joan Chandler Bishop

Mrs. Susan Joan Chandler Bishop, age 67, of Thomaston, transitioned to Heaven on February 14, 2022. She was born in Atlanta, daughter of the late Ernest Lee Chandler and Frankie Owens Dunn. 

Joan grew up in Conyers, moved to McDonough, and then to Pike County where she graduated from high school in 1972. She worked for William Carter Company for 45 years, retiring as a Transportation Analyst. 

Joan loved family gatherings, not just attending them, but cooking, planning and organizing every detail. She was an animal lover and a horse enthusiast. Joan was a member of Mt. View Baptist Church in Thomaston.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her family pet Izzy.

She is survived by her husband: Hugh Joel “Sonny” Bishop, Jr.; her sons: Joel Chandler Bishop and Chad Hugh Bishop (Lauren); and she was Lolly to her granddaughter: Mae Mae. Joan is also survived by her sisters and brothers: Carol Oliver, Becky Gulledge, Sandy Gibson (Keith), Mike Chandler (Teena), Ben Dunn (Pam), and Cecelia Little (Jack); sister-in-law: Bonnie Byrd Gardner (Bill) and June Denise Bishop.

Of her many nieces and nephews, she had a special bond with Reese and Adalee. Joan was like their second grandma, aka Aunt Joanie. She is survived by many great-nieces, great-nephews, friends and co-workers whom she loved and who dearly loved her.

Joan’s life was a reflection of 1 Corinthians 13:1.

Friends may visit the family on Friday, February 18, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.., at the funeral home.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 19, 2 p.m., at Mt. View Baptist Church in Thomaston.

Burial will follow in Moody Memorial Gardens in Zebulon.

Mrs. Virginia Mangham Brooks

Mrs. Virginia Mangham Brooks, age 96, of Lifsey Springs, GA passed away February 15, 2022. She was born in Lifsey Springs, daughter of the late James William Mangham and Essie Leamon Bankston Mangham Jones.

Mrs. Brooks was a homemaker, a life long resident of Lifsey Springs and member of Beulah Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School and enjoyed singing in the church choir. In 2018 she and her siblings were awarded a certificate by the Guinness Books of World Records for the highest combined age achieved by five living siblings at 485 years and 72 days.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Alton Brooks, stepfather Henry Grady Jones, infant daughter Darlene Brooks, sisters Helen Mangham, Grace Ward, Rosalee King, and brother W. D Mangham.

She is survived by her son Dennis (Sherry) Brooks. She dearly loved her grandson, David (Jennifer) Brooks and her great grandchildren: Julianna, Clara, Amos and Daniel Brooks. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Friends may visit the family on Thursday, February 17, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the funeral home.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 18, 11 a.m., at Beulah Baptist Church in Molena. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

MCPO James Wayne Redd, Sr.

MCPO James Wayne Redd, Sr., USN Ret, died Saturday, February 12, 2020, at Upson Regional Medical Center. 

Graveside funeral services for MCPO Redd will be held Wednesday, February 16, 2020, at 2:00 PM, in the Forsyth City Cemetery with Rev. Ted Kandler officiating. 

The family will receive friends at the cemetery following the service.

MCPO Redd was born in Forsyth, on January 1,1945, to the late James Waldrop Redd and Mary Frances Wilder Redd. He was a graduate of Mary Persons High School, and he served his country honorably in the US Navy, retiring with 30 years of service and then serving an additional six years as a Navy instructor. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. MCPO Redd was a member of the First Baptist Church of Thomaston.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Redd was preceded in death by his son, James Wayne "Jay" Redd, Jr. 

He is survived by his wife, Brenda Reeves Redd of Thomaston; daughters: Karen Leigh Redd, Nicolette Jean Redd, and Kimberly Jean Redd, all of San Diego, CA; stepdaughters: Danielle (Sherwood) Jones of Dalton, GA; and Jenn Galit; son: Ervin Redd of CA; stepsons: Rod Davidson of Thomaston, GA. and J. R. Galit, of CA; and a brother: James Waldrop Hester of TN. Ten grandchildren also survive.

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Disabled American Veterans, PO Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.

Mr. Thomas “Tommy” Floyd Reese, Jr.

Mr. Thomas “Tommy” Floyd Reese, Jr., age 71, of Molena, passed away February 12, 2022. He was born in LaGrange, son of the late Thomas Floyd Reese, Sr. and Lola Jean Bloodsworth. His father was in the military and Tommy spent his early years in Nuremberg, Germany where he participated in sports. 

Tommy was a veteran of the United States Air Force, serving in DaNang, South Vietnam in the 4th Tactical Fighter Squadron during the Vietnam War. While in the military, he was a F-4 Phantom Fighter-Bomber Jet mechanic. After being released from active duty, he went to work for Southern Bell and then AT & T, retiring as a Sr. Systems Analyst after 32 years. Tommy enjoyed playing golf, kayaking and fishing. He was a member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Molena.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Eddie Holsombeck.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years: Linda Reese; son and daughter-in-law: Kevin and Candice Reese; daughter and son-in-law: Jennifer and Mike Wallis; grandchildren: Natalie Reese, Garrett Wallis, Brooke Wallis, and Cassidy Reese; brother: Mark Lower; sister: Susan Wilson; several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, February 19, 2 p.m., in Mt. Olive Baptist Church Cemetery, 1177 GA 109, Molena.

Friends may visit the family from 1:30 p.m. to 2 p.m., graveside.

Mr. Jerry Odell Hicks

Mr. Jerry Odell Hicks, age 76, of Yatesville, died Friday, February 11, 2022, at his residence.

No services are planned at this time.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

Mr. Larry Edward Hilley Jr.

Mr. Larry Edward Hilley Jr. age 69 of Thomaston Ga, died Wednesday February 9, 2022 at Upson Regional Medical Center.

Mr. Hilley was born on October 26, 2022, in Thomaston, Georgia, to the late Larry Edward Hilley Sr. and the late Thelma Gresham Hilley. He retired from Keadle Lumber and served his country in the US Army National Guard. Mr. Hilley attended Mountain View Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter, Teresa Dawn Hilley, and brothers and sisters.

Survivors include, his wife, Elaine Standard Hilley of Thomaston, and his brother, Wiley (Sherre) Hiley of Thomaston.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, February 11, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. from Crystal Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends after the service.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the Upson Humane Society at P.O. Box 1152 Thomaston, Georgia 30286.

Charles Winton McDaniel Jr

Charles Winton McDaniel Jr., born March 13, 1942, succumbed to pneumonia on February 9, 2022, after a brief hospitalization.

Charles was a lifelong Thomastonian and the only child of Jane Fields McDaniel Stallings and Charles Winton “Bushy” McDaniel. Bushy and Jane instilled a great love of the outdoors and an appreciation of hard work in their adventurous and entrepreneurial son.

Charles attended R. E. Lee Institute and furthered his education at The University of Georgia, graduating with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing degree and a United States Army commission as a First Lieutenant. During his time at The University of Georgia, Charles became a bother in Sigma Chi Fraternity, walked on the Freshman Men’s golf team, participated in the ROTC program and met and married his wife of 58 years, Helen Drew Clark McDaniel.

Charles and Helen married September 8, 1963, in Waynesboro, Georgia. Upon Charles’ graduation from UGA in 1964, the couple served a year of active duty at Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas, and transitioned to a second year of active duty at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas. Charles remained in service to his country as a Georgia National Guardsman for an additional 6 years after completing his active-duty commitment. Charles and Helen returned to Thomaston from Texas and Charles took a job at Thomaston Mills in the sales department. After two years, Charles left Thomaston Mills to pursue a career as an insurance agent. Charles spent more than 50 years serving his community as an independent agent. Charles was a lifelong entrepreneur who started his first business, a yard service, at age 10. His passion for business continued throughout his life and he developed and sold multiple independent agencies across the State of Georgia. He shared his skills and knowledge by helping many young agents launch and advance their careers.

Charles was an involved civic leader having served on the Administrative Board and the Foundation Committee of the First United Methodist Church of Thomaston. Charles was a member of the Thomaston Upson County Art Council, The Upson County Historical Society, and a former member of the Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce. Currently, Charles was serving the Gordon State College Foundation as a board member.

Charles was an avid and accomplished golfer and outdoors man. He and Helen formerly held memberships at Thomaston Country Club, Idle Hour Golf Club in Macon, Georgia, Cullasaja Club in Highlands, North Carolina, The Sea Island Club in Sea Island, Georgia, and Reynold Plantation in Lake Oconee, Georgia. Charles enjoyed playing courses all over the world as he and Helen traveled and won countless tournaments over the years. He taught shooting and golf lesson to many young outdoorsmen.

True to his inquisitive and competitive nature, Charles had many hobbies. In addition to golf and hunting, he became a licensed private pilot, amateur historian, world traveler, and collector of guns, arrowheads, and antiques. He was fascinated by the stock market and was an active member of Pyramid Equities Stock Group. He was a faithful member of The Wild Bunch and enjoyed fellowship and hunting with his fellow members for 42 years. Currently, Charles was involved in the creation of the Thomaston-Upson County Fire Department Museum.

Charles loved his family tremendously and enjoyed his role both as Dad and as Grandy. He and Helen saw the world together and both enjoyed time spent with family and their many friends at their cabin on the Flint River and in their home.

Charles is survived by his wife, Helen Clark McDaniel, daughter and son in law, Jane McDaniel Evans and Luke Homer Evans, grandchildren: Meagan Reid Evans, Morgan Evans Lowe (Cameron), and David Alexander Evans (LuAnna), and great grandchild, Alexander Callaway Evans. He will be greatly missed by many.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 11, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. from the Thomaston First United Methodist Church. Burial will follow at Glenwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday, February 11, 2022 from 12:00 p.m.- 1:30 p.m. at Thomaston First United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Charles’ memory to The Upson County Historical Society marked for the Thomaston-Upson County Fire Department Museum.

William Ansel "Butch" Daniel

The perfectly pitched voice of William Ansel "Butch" Daniel was silenced on Friday, Feb. 4, 2022, when he peacefully crossed over to join other members of his family in the next life.

A celebration of life tribute will be held Sunday, February 20, 2022, at 2 pm at Tubby's Tank House in Thunderbolt. Fox & Weeks Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. It was Mr. Daniel's wish to be cremated.

Born January 21, 1951, in Thomaston, GA to William "Bill" Daniel and Lucille Williams Daniel. Butch was a happy, shy child who exhibited musical talent early on. Singing and playing the drums were his first talents, but he became an accomplished guitar player who could also plink around on the piano with ease.

His gentle nature made him a favorite playmate of his first cousins and "Cuzzbros," Ansley and Cleve, with whom he spent much of his time growing up, and then playing music with together as adults and neighbors in Savannah.

A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Butch graduated from R.E. Lee Institute in 1969, where he was a stand-out member of the Lee Hi Singers. He began his musical career as a young teen, playing with bands that included fellow rock'n'rollers Donnie Dowdy, Alfonzo Britt, Jerry Huckaby, Rhodon Chambley and David Penn, and beginning to play the bar circuit in nearby Macon as a drummer even before he was of age to enter one.

The presence of his uncles and Cuzzbros in Savannah lured him there in the mid-1970s, where he began playing and singing in River Street establishments, including O'Leary's, with his buddy, Tommy Dean. His band, Ansel, Strong & Reeves, a regular on the Molly McGuire's River Street stage, is remembered as one of the finest cover bands ever, packing out Molly's and the Lightship on Wilmington Island each time they played. His terrific vocals were complemented by the late Jay “Jaybird" Hackney on bass, George Reeves on guitar, and David Gum on piano. Songwriting came naturally to Butch, and he penned some great songs.

He made friends easily and had many throughout life. He was the person old friends were glad to see and catch up with, and the musician with whom other artists wanted to play. When he cut his "Rachel" record in 1988, it appeared that he might break out of the Savannah scene and onto a larger national stage, but that didn't happen. However, it didn't stop him from continuing to play great music, deliver his songs with style and treat his fans to a rocking show. The annual Williams Family Reunion and the Thomaston- and Savannah-based CuzzFests were legendary times with Butch entertaining his family, often joined by Ansley on harmonica; Ansley's son, Patrick on guitar and vocals, Cleve on piano, and Butch's son, Keith (of Keith & Ross) on guitar and vocals. Dancing was always involved, with his two sisters as his greatest fans. Every gathering was a special blessing.

Butch was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Carol June Hardage and her husband, LH of Thomaston; sister, Diane Daniel (Roger) Cotton (who died just three weeks prior to Butch) of Hotchton, GA; and his son, Michael Keith of Savannah, who died in October. 

Butch is survived by his loving partner of 13 years, Beth Payne, of Savannah; his daughter-in-law, Stacy Daniel; grandchildren Sarah and Evan Daniel; nieces and nephews, David (Lynn) Hardage, Danielle (Glenn) Ward, Kelli Roberts (Steve) Gonyea, and Kim Roberts Cresswell; great nieces and nephews, Justin Gonyea, Jessica Gonyea, Jeremy Blount and Ruby Cresswell; and a host of loving cousins, all of whom will greatly miss his easy laugh and immense talent.

MRS. PAULINE MCSWAIN DELOACH

Mrs. Pauline McSwain DeLoach, 94, of Thomaston, died Tuesday, February 8,2022, at her residence. 

Funeral services for Mrs. DeLoach will be held Thursday, February 10, at 11:00 AM, in the chapel of Fletcher-Day Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Glenwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday morning from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home. 

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Upson Humane Society, PO Box 1152, Thomaston, GA 30286, or to ASPAC, an animal rescue organization, at www.aspac.org

MR. DANNY LEE BRYANT

Mr. Danny Lee Bryant age 69 of Thomaston Ga, died Saturday February 5, 2022 at Harborview Health and Rehab.

Mr. Bryant was born on June 12, 1952 to the late James Bryant and the late Sarah Hollifield.

Survivors include his brother Ricky Bryant of Boonesfield MS, step brother Johnny Hollifield of Yatesville Ga, sisters Barbara Cook of Jackson Ga, Sandra Sosbee of Thomaston Ga, step sister Brenda Vincent of Forsyth Ga.

Graveside Services will be held on Thursday February 10, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. from Riverview Memorial Park in Smyrna Ga.

Coggins Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

MRS. DEBORAH ANN GUERIN HIERS

Mrs. Deborah Ann Guerin Hiers, age 65, of Thomaston GA, died Sunday, February 6, 2022, at her residence.

Mrs. Hiers was born July 27, 1956, in Nashville TN to the late Roy Guerin and Rachel Adkinson Anderson. She was a clerk for Emerald Cost Bingo and attended Prichett Memorial Baptist Church.

She is survived by her daughters, Sherry (Randy) Green of Thomaston and Melinda Ragan of Thomaston; son, Joshua (Cassi) Hiers of Milton FL; sisters, Kim (Wayne) Branning of Panama City FL and Gina (Kenneth) Jarboe Of Woodbury GA; brothers, Roger (Lela) Dover of Panama City FL and Randy Andrews of Panama City FL; grandchildren, MaCayla Bird, Jordan Veal, Roy Veal III, Thaddeus (Savannah) Morris, Tiffany (Joe) Jackson, Skyla Morris, Jonathan Hiers, Levi Hiers, Caden Hiers, Colt Hiers, and Kaia Hiers; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services for Mrs. Hiers will be held on Thursday, February 10, 2022, at 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Coggins Funeral Home. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 9, 2022, from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Coggins Funeral Home.

Coggins Funeral Home

MRS. ESTHER VERONIKA JONES

Mrs. Esther Veronika Jones age 90 of Butler Ga, died Thursday February 3, 2022 at Navicent Health.

Mrs. Jones was born on October 14, 1931 in Neustadt Orla, Germany. She was employed with Thomaston Mills for many years. Mrs. Jones was a member of Union Methodist Church. In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her husband, son, son in law, grandson and siblings.

Survivors include her daughters Sheila (David) King of Musella Ga, Debbie (Buddy) Trotter of Griffin Ga, Donna Trussell of Talbotton Ga, sons Steve (Lisa) Jones of Albany Ga, Rex Jones of Macon Ga, Mark Jones of Butler Ga, sister Edith (Jay) Freeman of Sacramento Ca, 8 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held on Sunday February 6, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. from Wesley United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in the Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church on Sunday February 6, 2022 from 3-4 p.m.

Coggins Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements

JOSEPHINE DAVIDSON

Our beloved Josephine (Josie) Davidson ascended into Heaven on January 30, 2022, at the age of 85, in San Antonio, Texas. 

She was born to Florinda and Raul Ytuarte, Sr., on March 19, 1936, in Hondo, Texas. Josie was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Lee Davidson, of Thomaston, Georgia, her son, Michael E. Davidson, her mother, Florinda Ytuarte, sister, Mary Alice Laughrey, and nephew Joe M. Alcaraz. 

She is survived by her brothers, Ernest Ytuarte, of San Antonio, Texas, Raul (Gardis) Ytuarte, Jr., of Florida, her six children, in loco parentis, Sherrie Laughrey Sucher, Tim Laughrey, Michele Laughrey, Liz (Lewis) Laughrey Carmichael, Angel Laughrey, and Melissa (Sid) Laughrey Taieb, her loving niece, caretaker and goddaughter, Diana (Ralph) Ytuarte, of Boerne, Texas, as well as six other nieces and nephews, 19 great-nieces and -nephews, and nine great-great-nieces and -nephews, and her precious Shih Tzu, Sunshine. 

Josie was a resident of The Rock, Georgia, where she worked, for over 30 years, at the former Martha Mills and Thomaston Mills, in Thomaston, Georgia, and the former Carter’s Mills, in Barnesville, Georgia. A move to Albany, Georgia, in 1986, preceded her permanent residence in San Antonio, Texas, circa 1990. Josie touched the lives of many people from her early years working at the mills to the countless people she met while working at Sam’s Club, over 25 years, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie was a devoted daughter to her mother and a pillar of strength to her family and friends. She will be remembered as gracious, stylish, and soft-spoken who carried herself with poise, class, and dignity. She will be missed by many, and her presence will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

Funeral services will be Sunday February 6, 2022, 11:00 AM in the Chapel of Coggins Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Crystal Hill Cemetery.

The family will receive friends 1 hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

MRS. GRACIE MAUDE ORRELL MCALISTER

Mrs. Gracie "Grace" Maude Orrell McAlister, age 92, of Thomaston, died Thursday, February 3, 2022, at Riverside Nursing Home.

Mrs. McAlister was born on April 29, 1929 in Mauk Ga, to the late Elmer Kent and the late Quillie Foster Kent. She was formerly employed with Upson Lee Middle School where she worked in the cafeteria. Mrs. McAlister was of the Pentecostal faith. In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her first husband Harry Timothy Orrell, second husband Russell McAlister, brother Elmer Kent, sister Mary Posey, great grandson Dylan Orrell.

Survivors include her daughters Mrs. Angela (Danny) Burks of Thomaston Ga, Mrs. Karen Orrell of Thomaston Ga, sons Mr. Lamar Orrell of Port Saint Joe Fl, Mr. Tim (Elo) Orrell of Little Field Az, sister Mrs. Doris Pitts of Thomaston Ga., 5 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held on Sunday February 6, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Coggins Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Pine Level Cemetery in Mauk Ga. The family will receive friends at Coggins Funeral Home on Sunday February 6, 2022 from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Coggins Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

MR. DANNY LEE STOREY

Mr. Danny Lee Storey age 66 of Forsyth Ga, died Wednesday February 2, 2022 at South Georgia Medical Center.

Mr. Storey was born on January 26, 1956, in Barnesville, to the late Rodney Storey, and the late Betty Jane Lee Storey. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Barnesville. He is preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife, Pattie Storey of Forsyth, son, Chris Toner of Forsyth, David (Yuri) Storey of Seattle, Washington, sister, Connie (Rick) Tanner of Cleveland, Georgia.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, February, 5, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. from Upson Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 5, 2022 from 2:30 p.m.- 3:30 p.m. at Coggins Funeral Home.

LANA K. TURNER

Lana was born in Oneida, TN, one of seven children born to the late Rev. Kermit E. King and Christine Walker King. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Gene Turner, brothers, James Donald “J. D.” King, Bob King, Ray King, and sister, Kathy Cline. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law: James and DeAndrea Harper Jr. ; her daughter: Kathy Price; grandchildren: Hannah Adcock, Jessie Harper and Joseph Alonso; sisters and a brother-in-law: Reva Smith and Carolyn and Adolf Jett; sister-in-law: Annette King; many nieces and nephews.

Through life’s journey people come in your life… some for a moment or a season and others for a lifetime. One thing to know is life is short. Make sure those near and dear to your heart know how much you love them because tomorrow is not promised much less today.

If you are reading this you knew Lana. She was a wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and to our kids she was “Nanny”.

To Jimmy and I, she was mom but better known as momma or Mumzie. We know without a doubt that we were blessed beyond measure that God appointed her as our mom.

Mom was a strong woman who taught us how to love big, forgive always and when life gets hard don’t give up but keep hold to God and press forward. When faced with adversity mom always trusted God and stood strong in her faith and belief that He would get her through.

God called momma home to be with him on January 31,2022 at 6:30p. We ask each one of you to please keep our family in your prayers. The void we feel is unmeasurable. Please take a moment to listen to this song which was one of mom's favorites. And rest assured that she is at peace.

There will not be a memorial service at mom's request and in lieu of flowers we are wanting to do something special for the nurses at Upson Regional who took such great care of her.

MRS. DEBORAH JACKSON FORDHAM

Mrs. Deborah Jackson Fordham, age 65, of Thomaston, died, Wednesday, February 2, 2022 at Upson Regional Medical Center.

Mrs. Fordham was born December 10, 1956 in Miami, Florida to the late James Jackson, and the late Hilda Bridges Carpenter. She was a homemaker and a member of Mountain View Baptist Church. She is preceded in death by her parents.

Survivors include her husband, Tony Fordham of Thomaston, daughter, Jenna Fordham (Nathan Creamer) Boyt of Thomaston, brother, Michael Watson of Milner, sister, Linda Jackson(Nick) Santopietro of Monroe, grandchildren, Tyler Boyt and Ashlynn Creamer.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 5, 2022 at 2:00 p.m from the Chapel of Coggins Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Southview Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday, February 4, 2022 from 6:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. at Coggins Funeral Home.

MRS. AUDREY A. OGLESBY HICKS

Mrs. Audrey A. Oglesby Hicks, age 99 of Thomaston Ga., died Wednesday, February 2, 2022 at Riverside Health and Rehab.

Mrs. Hicks was born on August 16, 1922, in Meriwether County, Georgia, to the late Bennie Pearson, and the late Leavy Ledford Pearson. She was a homemaker and a member of Faith Baptist Church. Mrs. Audrey loved gardening, flowers, shopping and she raised many foster children as if they were her own. In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her first husband, William M. Oglesby, her husband, Clifton Hicks, sons, William F. Oglesby, Michael Oglesby, brother, Perry Pearson, sisters, Francis Barber, Azzie Flournoy, Earlene Eppinger, and Myrtle Beckham.

Survivors include her daughter Joyce Oglesby (David) Beeland of Thomaston, Ellis Oglesby of Manchester, nine grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and numerous great-great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will held on Thursday, February 3, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. from Southview Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday, February 3, 2022 from 1:30 p.m.- 2:00 p.m. at Southview Cemetery.