Sunday, July 30, 2023

Matthew Galen Herring

Mr. Matthew Galen Herring, age 45, passed away July 29, 2023, at Eternal Hope Hospice in Griffin.  Matthew grew up in Zebulon, graduating from Pike County High School in 1997. His father, Bud Herring, was instrumental in establishing the recreational soccer program in Pike County, which Matthew excelled in. He also played football in high school. After graduation, Matthew worked with his dad for 8 years at Ford Motor Company in Hapeville. When the plant closed, he took the educational buyout and furthered his education at the Art Institute in Atlanta where he studied graphic design.  He was also an excellent writer and a fantastic singer. He loved to karaoke whenever he had the opportunity.  He liked fast and flashy cars too, the ones with stick shifts, and family trips to the beach.  

 

For the past several years, Matthew worked for the United States Postal Service in Thomaston as a rural carrier. He was a wonderful and doting father to his two boys.

 

He was preceded in death by his father, Anderson “Bud” Herring, Jr.

 

He is survived by his sons: Ashton Joseph Herring and Aidan Matthew Herring of Zebulon; his mother:  Janice Milligan Herring of Zebulon; former wife:  Kelly Grisham Herring of Molena; and many family and friends.

 

Moody Daniel Funeral Home

Wanda Lynne Buffington Eady O’Conner

Wanda Lynne Buffington Eady O’Conner, age 63, of Thomaston, passed away July 27, 2023, at her home. She grew up in the Forest Park and Griffin areas and moved to Thomaston 25 years ago.  She liked to swim, crochet and was an avid murder mystery and crime show addict. Wanda had a green thumb and could grow almost anything.  For the last year, she battled a very rare brain disease, Moya- Moya, and survived two brain surgeries.   

Wanda was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Allen O’Conner and her father, Otis Andrew “Andy” Buffington.

 

She is survived by her children:  Shawn Eady (Marie) of Macon, Shuantale Jones (Martin) of Barnesville and Danelle Johnson of Chicago, IL; grandchildren: Andrew Prysock, Aidan Prysock, Jorja Prysock, Aniston Jones, Abel Jones and Kaleb Johnson.

 

She is also survived by her mother: June Buffington; her sister: Angie Rivas both of Cumming; three nephews: Dale, Brandon and Nathaniel; life-long friend: Natalie Duncan; many aunts, uncles and cousins.

 

A memorial service will be held on Monday, July 31, at 11 a.m., in the chapel of Moody-Daniel Funeral Home with Pastor David McGuire officiating. Friends may visit the family on Monday, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the funeral home.

Friday, July 28, 2023

Keith Lamar Yates

Mr. Keith Lamar Yates, age 72, of Thomaston, passed away July 28, 2023, at his home.  Keith was a life-long resident of Thomaston and the son of the late Richard Yates and Madeline Humpheries Yates.  He was an active member of Mt. View Baptist Church where he volunteered in the kitchen.  He enjoyed camping and fishing.  Keith loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years: Caren Yates; children: Chet Yates (Kelli), Mitch Yates and Jerica Yates all of Thomaston; grandchildren: Tyrese (Andi), Hailey, Keylan, Mary Kate, Fred, Lance, Brooks, Emily, Lexi, Brody, and Brynlee; sister: Phyllis Long (Steve); brother: Durand Yates (Lynn); sisters-in-law: Sandra Wainwright (Murrah) and Jan Mitchell (Marcus) all of Thomaston; nieces and nephews: Lindsey, Niki, Kim, Jason, Richie, and Carla.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, August 1, at 2 p.m., at Mt. View Baptist Church, 2569 Jeff Davis Road, Thomaston.  Friends may visit the family on Tuesday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., at the church.

Thomaston and the son of the late Richard Yates and Madeline Humpheries Yates.  He was an active member of Mt. View Baptist Church where he volunteered in the kitchen.  He enjoyed camping and fishing.  Keith loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years: Caren Yates; children: Chet Yates (Kelli), Mitch Yates and Jerica Yates all of Thomaston; grandchildren: Tyrese (Andi), Hailey, Keylan, Mary Kate, Fred, Lance, Brooks, Emily, Lexi, Brody, and Brynlee; sister: Phyllis Long (Steve); brother: Durand Yates (Lynn); sisters-in-law: Sandra Wainwright (Murrah) and Jan Mitchell (Marcus) all of Thomaston; nieces and nephews: Lindsey, Niki, Kim, Jason, Richie, and Carla.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, August 1, at 2 p.m., at Mt. View Baptist Church, 2569 Jeff Davis Road, Thomaston.  Friends may visit the family on Tuesday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., at the church.

Moody Daniel Funeral Home

Edith R. Butts

Mrs. Edith R. Butts age 71 of Fayetteville Ga, died Friday July 28, 2023 at Southland Health and Rehab. Funeral Arrangements will be announced later.

Cathy Lynn Pritchard Horton

Mrs. Cathy Lynn Pritchard Horton, of Griffin, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on July 27, 2023.  She was a life-long resident of Griffin and daughter of the late J. T. Pritchard and Virginia Pruitt Pritchard.  Cathy worked in customer service at Gerald Bailey Insurance Company for 33 years and then at Roses Department Store for several more years.  She loved her jobs and seeing her customers. She was a people-person who had a sweet, calming spirit. She was a gracious humble lady who loved the Lord and her family and was an example of a perfect Pastor’s wife and First Lady of Vega Community Church.  She especially loved family gatherings and get-togethers.  Cathy was a great Momma and Nanny—The Best!

 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Randy Pritchard.

 

She was a wonderful wife to her husband of 53 ½ years:  Pastor Ken Horton; sons and a daughter-in-law: Gary Horton of Zebulon and Phillip and Jessica Horton of Griffin; grandchildren: Garrett Horton, Alexa Horton, Sloan Horton, Cierra Horton and Krista Horton; great-grandson: Lake Horton; brothers and sisters and their spouses:  Kenneth and Marilyn Pritchard of Griffin, Gina and Larry Cox of Gainesville, Carolyn Pritchard and Randy (deceased), Jennifer Granger, Benny and Linda Pritchard, Greg and Kim Pritchard all of Griffin; brother-in-law and sister-in-law: Ronald and Phyllis Horton of Concord; many nieces and nephews.

 

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, July 30, at 2 p.m., in Vega Community Church, 1837 Vega Road, Meansville. Pastor Billy Anderson and Pastor Greg Marsh will officiate.  Burial will follow in Moody Memorial Gardens in Zebulon.

 

Friends may visit the family on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., at the church. 

Ryan A. Weathers

Mr. Ryan A. Weathers age 46 died Thursday July 27, 2023 at his residence. Memorial Services will be announced later. Coggins Funeral Home

Wednesday, July 26, 2023

Gerald “Jerry” Howard Walker

 

Mr. Gerald “Jerry” Howard Walker, age 83, of Concord, passed away July 24, 2023.  Jerry grew up in Massachusetts, son of the late David Paddleford Walker and Alį»³ce Carragnon Walker.  After graduating high school, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp where he served for two years.  After being honorably discharged, he reenlisted in the United States Coast Guard and served an additional 21 years, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer.  During his military service, he served aboard five different ships and spent a total of 13 years at sea.  The culmination of his service was at Head Quarters in Washington D.C. serving as the Head of the Coast Guard Drug and Alcohol Administration as a Chief Warrant Officer III.  

After retiring from the military, Jerry moved his family to Maggie Valley, N.C. and began his adventure with entrepreneurship. There wasn’t much that Jerry couldn’t do.  He was never afraid to take a chance or try just about anything.  He owned a motel and two restaurants, managed food services at Ghost Town in the Sky located in Maggie Valley, NC, and finished his working career as a manager in the asbestos business for NEO Corporation. He was a jack-of-all trades, loved to build, and was the best at repurposing almost anything into something useful.  He never met a stranger, enjoyed being around people and was an excellent storyteller.

 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, David Ronald Walker and Wayne Paddleford Walker.

 

He is survived by his wife of 63 years: Mary Walker; children: Karen Brown (Larry), Kirk Michael Walker, and Kim Rogers (Richard); grandchildren: Matthew Brown, Travis Brown, Jessica Wildes, Emelia Wanner, Abby Rogers, Sloane Walker and Meghan Rogers; great-great-grandsons: Gus, Finn, Remer, Ansel, Harlan and Koen; as well as many precious nieces, nephews and friends.

Moody Daniel Funeral Home

Tuesday, July 25, 2023

Emmitt Valgean Yeoman

Mr. Emmitt Valgean Yeoman, also known as “Shorty and PawPaw,” age 74, of Meanville, passed away July 24, 2023.  He grew up in St. Augustine, FL, son of the late Emmit Valgean Yeoman, Sr., and Lucille Elizabeth Edmonson Yeoman. For most of his life, Shorty was an automobile mechanic.  While living in Florida, he worked for Shatila and Sons for many years.  In 1984, he moved to Griffin where he lived for two years before moving to Pike County. He worked at Ed’s Carburetor and Ignition in Griffin. Later in life, he became a truck driver and worked for C. T. Harris.

Shorty enjoyed fishing, playing pool, working in his yard, and dirt track racing. He drove the #0 (N0 Problem) Chevy Chevelle. He was known for working hard, and never complaining about anything. Shorty always had the same answer for everything.  He always said, “No Problem.”  He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather.

 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers and a sister, Leslie, Bill, Dickie, and Little Sharon.  

 

He is survived by his wife of 17 years:  Julie Yeoman; daughters: Elizabeth Michele Yeoman Baillargeon (Lon), and Tammy Yeoman Riggins; step-son:  William “Chop” Hubbard; step-daughters:  Cricket Bradley and Katrina Hubbard; grandchildren: Rayann Teal, Kasey Leigh Salter, Courtney ReneĆ© Salter, Lorna Crom, Matt Martin and Austin Hubbard; brothers and a sister: Phillip Yeoman, Danny Yeoman, Johnny Yeoman (Margaret), and Martha Yeoman; many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, and friends.

 

Friends may visit the family on Wednesday, July 26, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the funeral home.  Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 27, at 2 p.m., in the chapel of Moody-Daniel Funeral Home with Pastor James D. Wilson officiating.  Burial will follow in Moody Memorial Gardens in Zebulon.

Monday, July 24, 2023

Bonnie Smith Tyler



Bonnie Jo Smith Tyler, 72, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, July 24, 2023, with her family by her side.

 

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 29, at First Presbyterian Church. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the church. 

 

Bonnie was born in Miami, Florida, on Sept. 20, 1950, to Dorothy Wall Smith and the late Russell Earl Smith. She lived in Broward County until 1968 and then moved on her own to Atlanta. Bonnie met her husband, David A. Tyler when both were working at the Scotch House. They married in 1974.

 

Bonnie earned her bachelor’s from Georgia State University in 1982, taught school in Dekalb County for four years, and then moved to Upson County, where she taught school for 21 years.

Bonnie had a fabulous sense of humor, quick wit, and a kind heart. She was ageless and yet always current, whether the subject was music, fashion, or reality television. She created epic playlists to share her love of music with family and friends. She could hold a conversation in song lyrics. 

 

Bonnie was a better cook than she would admit, a talented photographer, and an avid reader. She loved a crackling fire and a jigsaw puzzle in the winter, Georgia Tech football and the angle of the sun in the fall, and days on the beach when the weather was warm. Bonnie’s keen interest in the weather meant she could forecast it better than most. Her annual declaration that “fall is in the air” was always a welcome sign that the summer heat was ending.

Bonnie’s smile was radiant, and when she laughed, which she did often, you felt wrapped in sunshine. To see her wipe tears of laughter from those bright blue eyes was a gift. Bonnie was that person who made everything more fun – a football game, a concert, a Broadway musical, a trip to the beach, a trip to Europe, roasting hotdogs around the fire pit, or just chatting on her back deck. No matter how much time you spent with her, it was never enough.

 

Bonnie was a devoted wife, mother, and “BB” to her granddaughters. She was a loving daughter to her mother and a loyal and thoughtful friend. Bonnie volunteered for several charitable activities in the community and served her church, First Presbyterian, as a trustee, a member of the finance committee, and in other ways, including singing in the choir. She also served on the board of the Upson EMC Foundation.

 

Bonnie was preceded in death by her father, Russell Earl Smith; her brother, James Russell Smith; and her beloved husband, David Avery Tyler, who passed in 2016.

 

She is survived by her mother, Dorothy Smith; daughter, Hayley Tyler Holston (Richard); son, Matthew Tyler (Kristy); and granddaughters, Sarabelle and Collins Tyler. She is also survived by other relatives, including several nieces and nephews and many close friends.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Tyler Fund at First Presbyterian Church of Thomaston at 403 Birdsong St., Thomaston, 30286.

  

Coggins Funeral Home

Thursday, July 20, 2023

Richard Leonard Bevel

Mr. Richard Leonard Bevel age 78 of Thomaston Ga, died Thursday July 20, 2023 at his residence. Memorial Services will be announced later.

Coggins Funeral Home

Wednesday, July 19, 2023

John William Bouchell

Mr. John William Bouchell, Sr., age 91, of Williamson, passed away July 18, 2023.  

He grew up in Arkansas, son of the late James Madison Bouchell and Nettie Ann Cox Bouchell.  At an early age, Mr. Bouchell joined the Army National Guard and chose the Air Force when the two branches split in 1947. While in the military, he flew B50 Bombers in the Korean War, was an air traffic controller, and a disc jockey for the Far East Network in Japan.  Mr. Bouchell moved back to the states and lived in Colorado Springs, CO for several years where he made training films for the Air Force Academy.  He retired from the military after 22 years of service.  

In 1969, Mr. Bouchell moved his family to Griffin and began a second career as an Air Traffic Controller with the FAA in Hampton, retiring in 1975. He joined the GA State Defense Force where he served as a Major for several years. Mr. Bouchell had a great love for all types of music and was a disc jockey at various radio stations. 

 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his great-granddaughter, Marie Ussery and his brothers and sisters, Harry, Opal, Beulah, Luther, and Dovie.

 

He is survived by his wife of 71 years:  Betty Bouchell; children:  Dian Pitts of Williamson, Karen Bouchell Keen of Thomaston and John William Bouchell, Jr. (Amy) of Pompano Beach, FL; grandchildren: Chris (Jessica), Jodi, Sarah, Elizabeth, Michelle and Kyle; many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

 

Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 21, at 2 p.m., in the chapel of Moody-Daniel Funeral Home with his grandson, Pastor Chris Pitts officiating.  Burial will follow in Moody Memorial Gardens.

 

Friends may visit the family on Friday, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., at the funeral home.

Retired Thomaston School Superintendent Yancy Morris Has Passed Away

Yancy Edward Morris, 73, of Hoover, Alabama passed away on Wednesday, July 19, 2023. He was born in Homerville, Georgia to Edward Morris and Mabel Sears, who preceded him in death. He spent his childhood years in Pearson, Georgia and graduated from Glynn Academy. He was greatly loved by his grandparents, Herman and Evelyn Sears and Edward and Elizabeth Morris. Yancy was loved and adored by his sisters, Christine Hughes, who preceded him in death, as well as Louise Shaw of Brunswick, Georgia, and Cathy Browning of Douglas, Georgia. He was also loved by many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Yancy is survived by his loving wife of nearly fifty years, Rosalyn Collins Morris. He is also survived by his children: Katy (Harrison) Willis of Mobile, Alabama; Abby (Matthew) Allen of Hoover, Alabama; and Drew (Caroline) Morris of Hoover, Alabama. The greatest pride and joy of his life were his grandchildren, Burns Willis, Brady and Molly Allen, and Charlie and Hank Morris.

Although his greatest accomplishment in his life was his family, Yancy was an accomplished man of his own. He served in the Vietnam War as part of the United States Army. He graduated from the University of Georgia, receiving bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees.  He spent more than forty years as an educator, working as teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent in Commerce, Georgia; Thomaston, Georgia; and Birmingham, Alabama. In doing so, Yancy touched a countless number of lives of students, teachers, and parents alike.

Yancy’s life will be celebrated at Shades Crest Baptist Church on Friday, July 21, 2023. Visitation will take place at 9 a.m., and the memorial service will occur at 10 a.m.  Since he always told his family to “do good,” Yancy requested that others do good by donating to the Bruno Cancer Center, https://stvfoundation.org/give/, in honor of the exceptional care provided by Dr. Carter Capra and Dr. Ira Gore, or to MD Anderson, 2023 Fundraise to End Cancer - Remember a Loved One: Mrs. Kathryn Willis - MD Anderson Cancer Center (convio.net), to support the ongoing work of Dr. James Yao and his staff.


Tuesday, July 18, 2023

Joseph Lamar Mayo

Mr. Joseph Lamar Mayo, age 83, of Jackson, passed away July 18, 2023, at his home.  Lamar was a Christian man who loved God.  He enjoyed singing and playing the guitar.  He was a good storyteller and was always telling corny jokes and making others laugh and smile.  Lamar also liked old cars and going to car shows.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 29, 2023, at 3 p.m., in Liberty Baptist Church.  There will be food and fellowship after the service at the church.

 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Liberty Baptist Church, 3043 High Falls Road, Jackson, GA 30233, in memory of Lamar.

James “Jim” David Calhoun

Mr. James “Jim” David Calhoun, age 52, of Griffin, passed away July 14, 2023, at Northside Hospital in Atlanta.  He was raised in NY on a family farm in West Edmeston, where he lived until the age of 12 when he and his family moved to Griffin, GA.

Jim had the best heart and was always helping others.  He enjoyed working on vehicles and fishing.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jay Calhoun and Josephine Slentz Calhoun and his sister, Jan Calhoun.

 

Jim is survived by his sisters, a brother and their spouses: Nancy and Bernie Whitacre, Ginny and Tim Rockwell, Jodi and Danny Hawes and Jacob Calhoun; many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and his girlfriend, Michelle. 

 

A memorial service will be held on Monday, July 24, at 2 p.m., in the chapel of Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

 

Friends may visit the family on Monday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., at the funeral home. 

 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to assist with funeral expenses.

Monday, July 17, 2023

Marie Thompson-Sanders

Marie Thompson-Sanders, age 45, went to be with her dad in heaven on Wednesday, July 12, 2023. She was preceded in death by her father, Johnnie Thompson. 

Survivors include her husband, Mark Sanders; children, Kyla Mendoza (John), Jarrett Anderson, Dean Sanders (Aaliyah) and Summer Sanders; grandchildren-Riley Crawford, Alana, Jeremiah, Emily and Bryson Thompson, and future grandson Dayton Sanders; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Kenny and Jane Sanders.

 

Marie was a loving and dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and mentor to many. She never met a stranger and had so much passion for the communities around her. Marie was the founder of and was passionate about NOFA (No One Fights Alone). Mark and Marie are the founders of Black Smoke Coffee in Orchard Hill.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to NOFA at Marie’s service or at Black Smoke Coffee.

 

The service for Marie will be Wednesday, July 19, 2023, at 11:00 am in the main sanctuary of Rock Springs Church, there will be no public visitation. A private burial will follow the service, family only.

 

Moody-Daniel Funeral Home. 

 

Donna Sheryl Portwood Kimmel

Ms. Donna Sheryl Portwood Kimmel, age 61, of Thomaston, passed away July 17, 2023, at her home with her family by her side.  She was born in Columbus, GA, daughter of the late Richard Donald Portwood and the late Mildred Charity Brown Portwood. Sheryl was always a hard worker and was employed at K-Mart for 10 years. First in Peachtree City and then in the pharmacy in Fayetteville.  She also worked at Piccadilly Cafeteria in Fayetteville for 5 years.  She enjoyed walking, singing, dancing, chocolate, especially Kit Kat bars, music, the color green, Ford Mustangs and Fridays. She loved, loved, loved Fridays.  Her most favorite bands were Aerosmith, Van Halen, The Eagles, and Alabama.  

For much of her own life, Sheryl struggled with mental illness but was an overcomer with the help of her loving and supportive family.

 

Sheryl had a very close relationship with her parents. When her father became ill, she stepped in to become his main caregiver. 

 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a grandchild, Angel Audrina Charity Kimmel and her beloved next-door neighbor, Phillip Stevens.

 

She is survived by her son and daughter-in-love: David Kimmel and Elizabeth Payne-Kimmel of Thomaston; bonus daughters: Monica Perkins of Fayetteville, Brittany Butler of North Georgia and Stephanie Freeman of Atlanta; beloved next-door neighbor: Ressie Stevens of Thomaston; favorite cousin: James Stewart of Loganville; chosen beloved family member: Patricia Dabbs of Williamson; former husband: Keith D. Kimmel, Sr. of Augusta; her dog: Sammy; and her cats: Hershey and BooBoo.

 

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 20, 2023, at 2 p.m., in the chapel of Moody-Daniel Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Meriwether Memory Gardens in Manchester. 

 

Friends may visit the family on Thursday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., at the funeral home.

 

Sunday, July 16, 2023

Margie Louise Watson Brooks

Mrs. Margie Louise Watson Brooks, age 92, of Atlanta, GA formerly of Thomaston died Sunday, July 16, 2023, at her residence. 

 

Mrs. Brooks was born October 2, 1930, in Thomaston, to the late Durwood and Nellie Watson.  She was a member of Doraville First Baptist Church, where she was the church secretary for 30 plus years.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Walter Watson and Hubert Watson; sisters, Claudia Adair, Clara McRae and Velma Watson; and nephew, Brandon Weaver.

 

Survivors include her husband of 59 years, Mark Brooks, who lovingly cared for her during the final years of her life; Mike (Lisa) Brooks of Atlanta; grandchildren, Shane and Amanda Brooks of Atlanta; brother, James Watson of Thomaston; many nieces and nephews also survive.

 

Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. from Southview Cemetery.

Coggins Funeral Home.

Ricky James Gilbert

Mr. Ricky James Gilbert, 70, of Molena, GA died July 16, 2023, at the Dublin VA Hospital in Dublin, G A. 

 

Mr. Gilbert was born on May 17, 1953, in Thomaston to the late James Jay Gilbert and the late Innell Melton Gilbert.  He retired from the U.S. Army after 28 years after retirement he worked for BF Goodrich and worked in the family business, Serendipity in Griffin and he was a member of Molena Baptist Church.  In addition to her parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers, Randy, Wade, and Harrington Gilbert, sister Bicky Reedy.

 

Survivors include his wife, Janet Wise Gilbert of Molena, daughters, Cresta (Shawn) Barber of Williamson, Claire (Jonathan) Helms of Molena, brothers, Jimmy Gilbert of Concord, Robbie Gilbert of Griffin, grandchildren, Matthew Davis, John Austin Barber, Gage Helms, Myles Helms, and Jake Helms.

 

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Coggins Funeral Home.  Burial will follow at Molena City Cemetery.  The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, from 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. at Coggins Funeral Home.

Eugenia Frang

Mrs. Eugenia Frang, 84 of Meansville, GA  died July 16, 2023 at her residence. Funeral arrangements to be announced by Coggins Funeral Home.

Coggins Funeral Home

Saturday, July 15, 2023

Linda Susan McKinley

Mrs. Linda Susan McKinley, age 72, of Thomaston, died Friday, July 14, 2023, at Harborview Health Care.  

Funeral services for Mrs. McKinley will be  held Sunday, July 16, at 3:00 PM, at East Thomaston Baptist Church with Rev. Joey Smith officiating.  The family will receive friends at the church from 2:00 PM until the funeral hour. 

 

Mrs. McKinley was born in Thomaston on June 12, 1951, to the late Thomas James Turner, Sr. and the late Ruth Wheless Turner.  She was a graduate of R. E. Lee Institute, earned a BS degree in education from Tift College, and completed a Masters degree in education from Mercer University.  She retired from the Thomaston-Upson County School System in 2003 with more than 30 years of service.  After her retirement, she drove the cancer car for many years.  She enjoyed sewing, knitting, and other crafts, and she loved her grandchildren dearly.  Mrs. McKinley was a member of East Thomaston Baptist Church.

 

Survivors include her son, Thomas McKinley of Culloden; a sister, Rebecca McDaniel; a brother, James Turner; and two grandchildren, William and Siera McKinley.  Several nieces and nephews also survive.

 

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Upson County Cancer Car Ministry, c/o Mr. Carey Pitts, 300 Upson Avenue, Thomaston, GA  30286. Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston is in charge of all arrangements. 

 

Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com

Friday, July 14, 2023

Gary Max Selsor

Mr. Gary Max Selsor age 83, of Barnesville died Friday, July 14, 2023, at his residence.

Mr. Selsor was born on January 19, 1940, in Garden City, Kansas, to the late Maxie Lee Selsor and the late Elaine Virginia Clutter Selsor.  He worked maintenance at Continental Tire and was an avid livestock farmer at Copper Penny Ranch.  He served his country in the U.S. Army.  and was of the Baptist Faith.  In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Janet Selsor.

Survivors include his wife, Joyce Phillips Selsor of Barnesville, daughter, Crista (Craig) Stubbs of Barnesville, sons, Steve (Kim) Selsor of Barnesville, Scott Selsor of California, sister, Dianna Edwards of Silver City, NM., seven grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. 

Graveside Memorial services will be Monday July 17, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. from Greenwood Cemetery in Barnesville.

Coggins Funeral Home

Wednesday, July 12, 2023

Owen J. Adams III

Owen J. Adams III, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, July 11, 2023. Owen was born in Thomaston, GA on December 28, 1969, to Owen Jr. and Josie Haywood Adams. 

 

He was preceded in death by his dad, Owen J. Adams, Jr. and also by all grandparents: Owen J.  and Frances Adams, Pauline Selph, Dot Singley and a very special grandfather James K. "Bud Knight" Haywood, who called him "Wildman" and gave him so many great childhood memories.

 

Owen is survived by his loving mother and stepfather, Josie and Neil Rooks who had been faithfully by his side taking care of him during his illness for several years. He also leaves behind a son and daughter In law, Calvin and Holly Adams, a bother, David Rooks aka "Home Team"  a sister and "brother", Tammie "Sis" and Mike "Shack" Shackelford, a niece, Katie Jo Daniel and a half-brother, Shannon Ethridge (Faith, Katelyn, Jess, Caleb), as well as wonderful cousins (Kim, Ginger, Judy, Lisa, Michelle, Keith, Shane, Allen and Mark) that were a huge part of his childhood. An" Uncle Sonny "Haywood (Debbie) and "Uncle Gary" (Stacey).

 

Owen was a devout Alabama Fan and as we know of only missed watching one game and that was due to his illness. He had a huge heart and loved animals. He was a big "teddy bear" but if you messed with his family or friends that teddy bear became an angry bear. He also loved "pumping iron", which he and his brother David did almost daily together at the Civic Center for years before he became too ill. Although his illness had limited his activities for years, Owen lived his life to the fullest and made some wonderful memories and will be missed greatly.

 

There will be a "Celebration of Life" for Owen in the future. Please watch for this on his sister's and mother's facebook pages. In Lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Barnesville Animal Shelter (because of his love for animals).

 

And......."ROLL TIDE!"

Moody-Daniel Funeral Home. 

Felix Wayne Coker

Mr.  Felix Wayne Coker age 77 of Thomaston Ga, died Tuesday July 11, 2023, at Emory University Hospital. 

 

Mr. Coker was born on March 10, 1946, in Upson County, to the late Henry Grady Coker Sr. and the late Jeanette Pierce Coker.  He retired from Farm Bureau after 40, was a Mason/Shriner and President of the V.F.W.  Mr. Wayne served his country in the U.S. Navy during Vietnam.  In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers, Henry Grady Coker Jr. and James Edward Coker.

 

Survivors include his wife, Judith Cheryl "Cherry" Coker of Thomaston, sons, Felix "Chuck" Wayne (Paige) Coker Jr. of Thomaston, Benjamin (Christy) Coker of Thomaston, sisters, Laverne C. Collins of Destin, Florida, Fay (Bob) McRee of Bozeman, Montana, grandchildren, Triston Coker, Dalton Coker, Jake Sayer, Tara Horsley, Trent Coker, Anna Leigh Coker, Trevor Jones, Haylee Jones, two great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews.

 

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, July 15, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Coggins Funeral Home.  The family will receive friends on Friday, July 14, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Coggins Funeral Home.

 

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.support.woundedwarriorproject.org.

Coggins Funeral Home

Tuesday, July 11, 2023

Sonia Lamb

Sonia Lamb, age 88 of Greensboro, GA, passed away Sunday, July 9, 2023, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Athens, GA. 

Sonia was born on May 30, 1935, in Connecticut.  She was proceeded in death by her mother, Mildred Reynal and father, Claude Reynal.   She spent her life raising her children as a homemaker in Conyers GA and was very active in Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church and Salem Methodist Church, both in Conyers, GA.

 

Survivors include her son, Rusty Lamb (Katrina) and daughter Karen (Jody) and stepdaughter, Debbie Reed. Sonia is also survived by four grandchildren, Kathryn (Matt), Rachel (Bryce), Michael (Jennifer), Steven (Krissy) and nine great grandchildren.  

 

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, July 15th, 2023, at 11:00 am at Lakepoint Community Church – 106 Village Lane, Eatonton, GA 31024.  The family will receive friends prior to the service from 10:00 am – 11:00 am and will host a reception following the service at Karen and Jody Stephens’ home – 2060 Shadow Lake Dr.  Buckhead, GA 30625.   

 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the American Cancer Society in memory of Sonia Lamb at www.donate.cancer.org.

 

Coggins Funeral Home 

Monday, July 10, 2023

Melvin Wade Little, Sr

Mr. Melvin Wade Little, Sr., age 81, of Dallas, Georgia, formerly of Thomaston, died Saturday, July 1, 2023, at Emory University Midtown Hospital in Atlanta. 

Memorial services for Mr. Little will be held on Thursday, July 13, at 6:00 PM, in the chapel of Fletcher-Day Funeral Home.  The family will receive friends at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home from 5:00 PM until the service hour. 

 

Mr. Little was a building inspector for 20 years in Marietta and was an inspector for the Department of Transportation. He had served in the Army National Guard. Mr. Little was a Mason and a member of the Sons of Confederate Veterans. He was preceded in death by his parents, Chester Little and Ruby Pearson Little, and by a sister, Joyce Evans.   Mr. Little is survived by: 2 daughters: Laura Joy English, of Thomaston and Tara Little of Dallas, GA; 2 sons: Melvin Wade (Sandy) Little, Jr. of Auburn, AL; and Eddie Little, of Dallas, GA; and 1 brother: Joe Little (Tricia), of Marietta. Seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren also survive.

 

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

Saturday, July 8, 2023

Jerry Michael McDonald

On July 7, 2023, the warranty on Jerry Michael McDonald’s body expired. Throughout his life he reinvented himself many times - from a loving husband, to a father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He considered these roles his greatest achievements. Many knew him in other capacities.

Mr. McDonald was born in Thomaston on July 11, 1937, to the late Thomas D. McDonald and the late Myra Brown McDonald. He was a 1955 graduate of R. E. Lee Institute, and he earned a BS degree in organic chemistry from Georgia State University. He also attended the Woodrow Wilson School of Law. In the 1960’s his employer, IBM, sent him to Houston and Dallas, TX; San Jose, CA; and Denver, CO. When he finished college in the 1970’s he hoped to attend medical school but was denied admission because of his age. He was retired from MCSI, Inc., where he was a computer technician. Mr. McDonald was in Dallas at the time of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. Upon returning home to live in Thomaston, Mr. McDonald was very active in the community. He served on the Hightower Library Board, was a member of Thomaston Toastmasters and the Upson Historical Society, gave educational tools to school children, worked on the Silvertown gazebo project in his 70’s - joking that it was his Eagle Scout project, and he also worked on the Jester’s Creek Trail Greenway. Mr. McDonald was a member of Silvertown Baptist Church where he led the music at one time.

 

Mr. McDonald is survived by his wife of 64 years, Claudette Stiltner McDonald of Thomaston; two daughters: Ellen (Keith) Brewer of Williamson, and Anna Mitchusson of Senoia; a sister, Charlotte (Barney) Hancock of Thomaston; two brothers, Douglas (June) McDonald of Dunedin, Florida, and Tim (Tanya) McDonald of Americus; seven grandchildren: Sarah Moore, Jake Brewer, Rachel Brewer, Jesse Brewer, Margaret Brewer McVey, Ivan Segovia, and David Mitchusson; and eleven great grandchildren. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

 

Funeral services for Mr. McDonald will be held on Tuesday, July 11, at 11:00 AM, at Silvertown Baptist Church. Rev. Paul Caspers will officiate. Interment will be held later at Crystal Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Monday evening, July 10, from 6:30 until 8:00 PM at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home.

 

Jerry enjoyed laughter and said, "It's the journey - not the destination."  His family is envious of heaven's gain.

 

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

Joe Oliver Vanderslice

Mr. Joe Oliver Vanderslice, age 76, of Griffin, passed away July 6, 2023, at Brightmoor Hospice.  He was born in Shelby County Alabama, son of the late Nicholas Vanderslice and Helen Stolpmann Vanderslice.  Joe was a veteran of the United State Air Force, serving in Vietnam. He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Griffin Ward. 

Joe was in the engineering-consulting business and had worked for the Tennessee Valley Authority for 27 years before retiring from the nuclear powerhouse operations center.  He enjoyed woodworking, fishing, and laser engraving. He was technologically savvy and a computer whiz.  

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Rita Burke Vanderslice, children Eric Oliver Vanderslice (Jenny) of Huntsville, AL and Leanna Marlin (Tom) of Griffin.

He has three grandchildren whom he dearly loved - Abigail Vanderslice, Jacob Marlin and Patrick Marlin. 

He has one brother, Roy Vanderslice (Joan) of Marietta a sister-in-law Renee Burke Tatum (David), several nieces and nephews, his rotten little dog, Mindy, and countless friends.  

A memorial service will at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Flintstone, Georgia on July 21st at 2 pm EST   . . .

Interment will be at Chattanooga National Cemetery at a later date.  

Moody Daniel Funeral Home

Lloyd Hammock

Mr. Lloyd Hammock age 80 of Barnesville Ga, died Friday July 7, 2023 at his residence. 

Graveside Services for Mr. Lloyd Hammock will be held on Tuesday July 11, 2023 at 11 a.m. from Crystal Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends at Coggins Funeral Home on Monday July 10, 2023 from 5-7 p.m. Coggins Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Linda Cheryl Rogers

Mrs. Linda Cheryl Rogers, age 74, of Thomaston, GA, died Saturday, July 8, 2023, at Upson Regional Medical Center.

 

Mrs. Rogers was born on December 7, 1948, in Richmond, Kentucky, to the late Corbin Brandenburg and the late Adora Bruner Brandenburg.

 

She enjoyed taking cruises and vacationing with family at the beach. As a lifelong animal lover, she was active in animal rescue and adoption programs. She fostered many animals throughout her life and it was a source of great joy to her.

 

Mrs. Rogers worked with her family through many entrepreneurial businesses and obtained her certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse.  She supported her children as a loving mother and US Army spouse while her husband served in Vietnam.

 

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Ronald M. Dishion.  Survivors include her daughter, Cheryl (Darryl) Preast of Thomaston, sons, Steven (Rhonda) Dishion of Thomaston, James (Stacey) Dishion of Burke, Virginia, Christopher (Rebecka) Rogers of Fort Worth, Texas, sister, Kimberly Hill of Henagar, Alabama, eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Rogers will be cremated. Memorial services will be announced at a later date.  She was a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and will be missed dearly.

 

Coggins Funeral Home