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Obituaries for February 22, 2007

Frank L. Boula, 59

Frank L. Boula, 59, passed away Sunday, February 18, 2007, at Hospice Savannah. The New York native had lived in this area for 36 years. He was a U. S. Navy veteran and had worked at Georgia State Prison for 19 years, the Tattnall County Sheriff’s Department for nine years, and the Toombs County Sheriff’s Department for two years. He was a member of Big Oaks Hunting Club and was of the Catholic faith.

Survivors include: daughters and son-in-law, Corinnia M. Boula of Lyons and Michelle and Jose Martinez of Charleston, SC; son and daughter-in-law, Shannon and Arminda Boula of Adrian; mother, Irene Bryant of Saranac, NY; brother, Raymond Boula of Saranac, NY; granddaughters, Kathryn and Sarah Boula, and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, February 22, 2007, at Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home in Glennville. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, February 23, 2007, at the Chapel of Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home with Rev. J. D. Fowler officiating. Burial will follow in Glennville Memorial Gardens.

Pallbearers include Derrick Glisson, Matthew Smith, Merrill Hornberger, David Smith, Kyle Sapp and Roger DeLoach. Honorary pallbearers will be employees of Tattnall County Sheriff’s Department and Officers of Georgia State Prison.

Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home, Glennville Chapel, is in charge of the arrangements.

Mary Mildred Berry Clanton, 75

On June 18, 1931, Mary Mildred Berry Clanton was born in Tyson, a small town in Tattnall County, GA. She was the second of eight children in the family of the late Willie and Leola West Berry. In 1943, her family settled in the nearby town of Collins, GA.

On Thanksgiving Day, November 25, 1962, Mary Mildred was joined in holy matrimony to Josephus Clanton of Pembroke, GA. Unto this union two children were born, Roderick Derryl and Cheryl Ludrenia.

Mary Mildred believed, taught and lived education. She received her early education from Snow Baggs, Tyson ad Dunbar Elementary Schools. She received most of her secondary education while attending Walker High School in Ludowici, GA. She graduated form Collins High School in 1950. Mary Mildred pursued higher education and learning at Savannah State College, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in 1955. She returned to Savannah State in 1960 to earn an Associate Degree in Library Sciences. Mary Mildred began her 30-year career as an educator in 1955 at Glennville Elementary, where she was employed for eight years. In 1963 she moved to Pembroke, to work for the Bryan County Board of Education as a teacher and librarian at the Pembroke High School. She later worked several years as the Librarian at Black Creek Elementary School. Mary Mildred worked her final years, until retirement in July 1986, as a successful first grade teacher at Lanier Elementary School. Mary Mildred obtained lifetime memberships in the National Teachers’ Association, Georgia Association of Educators, the Retired Teacher Association of Georgia, and the Bryan-Evans County Retired Teachers’ Association, where she served one term as president. Mary Mildred’s education and love of family history made it possible for her to serve many roles, including president on the committees for the Grantham, Berry and Clanton family reunions. She was a member of the Sweet Evening Breeze Eastern Star, Chapter #269. Mary Mildred’s life was surely a life of service to others.

Mary Mildred joined Greater Zachariah Missionary Baptist Church at an early age and accepted the Lord and Savior into her life. Deaconess Clanton was a devoted member and served religiously as both a Sunday School and Bible Study teacher. She also served as a member of the Nurses Auxiliary, and until her death, she was the Mother of the Church for Greater Zachariah Baptist Church. With her husband, Mary Mildred, also regularly attended Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church where she served as a Sunday School and Bible Study teacher, a director of the Sunbeam Choir, and on the Nurses Auxiliary, where she served as the first president.

Two sisters, Jewel Berry and Lorraine B. Strickland, preceded her in death.

On the day of our Lord, February 3, 2007, Mary Mildred was called home to her eternal rest. She leaves to cherish her loving memory her devoted husband of 44 years, Deacon Josephus Clanton of Pembroke, GA; her loving son, Roderick Derryl Clanton and his wife Velma of Hinesville, her devoted daughter, Cheryl Clanton Hamilton and her husband Troy of Atlanta; eight grandchildren, Candace Hamilton, Brandon Hamilton, Alexis Clanton, Porsche Clanton, Vincent Hamilton, Xavier Clanton, Vanessa Griffin of Ft. Hood, TX, Michael Griffin (Latoya) of Durham, NC; one great-grandchild, Amaiya Jean; two brothers, Wilton Berry (Ollie D.) of Hampton, VA and Mark Allen Berry (Jeanette) of Shreveport, LA; three sisters, Vera B. Morales, of Roswell, NM, Yvonne L. Berry of Brooklyn, NY, and Leona B. Scott (Harry J.) of Collins, GA; one brother-in-law, Ellis Strickland of Hinesville, GA; one sister-in-law, Virginia C. Mikell of Pembroke, GA; one aunt, Madie B. Thomas of Surrency, GA; two special foster kids, Devonna and Meggin Scott of Collins, GA. Mary Mildred’s memory will be forever engraved in the hearts and minds of her many relatives and friends, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, godchildren, close friends and neighbors. All of these are the people she knew, loved and cherished.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, February 10, 2007, at Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, of Groveland, GA, with the Reverend Dr. L. Perry McNeal presiding, and Dr. C. L. Anderson serving as Eulogist. Interment followed in the Jerusalem Baptist Church Cemetery.
Sylvania Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Ranford Coleman, 93

Mr. Ranford Coleman, 93, died Thursday at South Fulton Hospital in Atlanta. The Tattnall County native had lived in Atlanta since 1956. He retired in 1975 from Ford Motor Company and was a member of the UAW. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and a member of the Connners Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his wife, Edna Smith Coleman and parents, William Marshall and Maude Coleman.

He is survived by a son, Joey R. Coleman of Atlanta; three daughters, Linda Martin of Fayetteville, Judy Smith of Jacksonville, FL and Cynthia Coleman of Atlanta; two sisters, Helen Robison of Boca Raton, FL and Ann Bryant of Lyons; three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held on Monday, January 19, 2007, at Kennedy Funeral Homes, Cobbtown Chapel, with Reverend Carl Ledbetter officiating. Burial followed in the Sunlight Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Sam Smith, Dennis Martin, Chris Martin, Charles Bryant, Joey Coleman and Joe Martin.
Kennedy Funeral Home, Cobbtown Chapel, was in charge of all the arrangements.

Onider Johnson Oliver, 87

Mrs. Onider Johnson Oliver, 87, passed away Sunday, February 18, 2007, at the Tattnall Community Hospital. The Tattnall County native had lived in Collins all of her life. She was a homemaker and a member of Full Gospel Assembly of God in Collins. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Angel Oliver; parents, George and Lessie Johnson; sisters, Sula Oliver, Miner Sparks, Bonnell Youmans and Vaska Lee Johonson; brothers, George L. Johnson and Wendell Johnson.

She is survived by her husband of 70 years, Roger Oliver of Collins; two daughters and sons-in-law, Lessie Mae and Larry Collins, and Naomi and Ray Hightower, all of Collins; son and daughter-in-law, Tony and Adele Oliver of Collins; two sisters, Cora Cobb and Faye Screen both of Collins; brother, Elvin Johnson of Collins; eight grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, one great great grandchild, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, February 20 at 3 p.m. at the Chapel of Bradley B. Anderson Funeral Home conducted by Rev. David Moxley and Pastor Gilbert Wommack. Interment followed in the Little Flock Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Vann Johnson, Don Oliver, Wiley Sumner, Carroll Oliver, Johnny Pye and Floyd Sparks, Jr. Honorary Pallbearers were Johnny James, Jay Phillips, Shane Blalock, Richard Higgs, Lou Graham, and The Sea Board & The Flat Woods Hunting Club Members.

Bradley B. Anderson Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Roger “Pete” Sylvester Rucker, 32

Mr. Roger “Pete” Sylvester Rucker, 32, departed his life in Atlanta, GA on February 13, 2007. He was born in Jackson County to Swayne Faulkner and the late Sharon Faulkner of Homer, GA. He attended Franklin County High School. He joined Homer First Baptist Church, in Homer, GA at an early age.

Roger was preceded in death by his loving mother, Sharon Faulkner and his grandfather, George Faulkner, both of Homer, GA.

Roger was reared in the home of his grandparents, Betty Jo and James Beasley, of Carnesville, GA. He also leaves to cherish his memory, his father, Swayne (Kathie) Faulkner, of Homer; James (Vanessa) Rucker of Glennville and great-grandfather, Johnny “Cook” Ramsey of Commerce. Five children, Kelsey Shambree Rucker, twins, Roger, Jr. and Breanna Rashall Rucker of Athens, Ryshawn Francillion of Lavonia and Zaniyah Hammonds of Reidsville; two step-children, Daniel Glenn and Jacques Cooper; siblings, LaToya (Brian) Norman and Enrica Faulkner of Jefferson, Teresa Faulkner of Athens, Cordero Davis and Tina Faulkner of Carnesville and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He also leaves a very special friend, Tamika Young.

Annie Bell Cowart Thompson, 71

Annie Bell Cowart Thompson, 71, passed away Thursday, February 15, 2007, under the care of Pearls of Life Hospice. The Tattnall County native had lived in Glennville and Claxton most of her life. She was a homemaker and attended Antioch Baptist Church. She is preceded in death by her husband, Edward Thompson; brother, Charles Cowart and grandson, Ricky Allen Gibson.

She is survived by her daughters, Teresa Ehrman, Sheila Thompson and Joanna Thompson, all of Claxton; sons, Randy Carnes, of Glennville, Allen Carnes of Collins and Shane Dukes of Claxton; sisters, Margaret Stalvey and Virginia Proctor both of Glennville, Catherine Jones, Betty Tippins, Carolyn Blocker and Geraldine Smith all of Claxton; brothers, Ander Cowart and Wilmer Cowart both of Claxton; 14 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Sunday, February 18, 2007, in the chapel of Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home with Reverend Eric Rentz officiating. Burial followed in Antioch Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Shane Dukes, Daniel Blocker, Larry Blocker, Ian Perdue, Kelly Taylor and Shawn Lands.

Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home in Glennville was in charge of all the arrangements.

Obituaries for February 15, 2007

William Clayton Anderson, 87

William Clayton Anderson, 87, passed away Friday, February 9, 2007, at his residence. Mr. Anderson was born August 31, 1919 in Glennville, GA. His parents were Zona Mae Cowart and Dewey Jackson Anderson.

He served in the Marine Corps for ten years and was in the South Pacific during WWII. W.C., as he was known, opened the Milk Bar in downtown Glennville. Later he moved to Ashland, KY, where he constructed new homes. In 1948, he married the former Freda Ann Fannin.

W.C. developed and owned three mobile home parks in Ohio before moving to Florida in 1963. He enjoyed the South Florida climate and owned four mobile home parks in the Ft. Lauderdale area.

W.C. had a strong attachment to Glennville. He regularly attended Glennville High School 1936 class reunions. He was Director Emeritus of the The Glennville Bank. His favorite vacation spot, next to Las Vegas, was spending the fall months in Glennville, often ending the day at sister Duann’s table. He enjoyed fishing with his brother-in-law, Elbert Kicklighter and close friends, Ellis Anderson and Willie Thomas. W.C. also loved being at the lake with Ethel and James Faircloth.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Freda F. Anderson, of Ft. Lauderdale; three daughters and sons-in-law, Deborah and Dennis McGroarty of Dallas, TX; Laura and Rene’ Robes of Rockledge, Florida and Susan and Ron Habas of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; and six grandchildren, Meridith and Mallory McGroarty, Gregory and Erica Robes and Alexander and Julia Habas; sister and brother-in-law, Duann and Elbert Kicklighter of Glennville, their children and families, Donna and Alex Tootle and David and Sue Kicklighter of Richmond Hill; his sister-in-law, Ernestine “Woody” Anderson of Brunswick and a special cousin, Cleo Durrence of Claxton. He was preceded in death by his sister, Nethray and brother, Olva.

Pallbearers were Dennis McGroarty, Rene’ Robes, Gregory Robes, David Kicklighter, Alex Tootle and Mike Mulligan. Honorary Pallbearers were the Directors and Officers of The Glennville Bank.

As W.C. admired and supported the Paul Anderson Youth Home, donations may be sent to P.O. Box 525, Vidalia, GA 30475.

Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 15, 2007 at the Chapel of Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home. Burial followed in the Glennville City Cemetery.

Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home, Glennville Chapel, was in charge of all the arrangements.

Janie Durrence Bounds, 92

Janie Durrence Bounds, 92, of Claxton, passed away February 6, 2007, at Evans Memorial Hospital.

Born in Tattnall County, she moved to Evans County at a very young age. She was a member of Bay Branch Primitive Baptist Church.

Janie moved to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, after graduating from the Georgia Teachers College, now Georgia Southern University, and also attended the University of Colorado and the University of Florida. She taught school for several years before moving to Florida, where she was employed by the Broward County School Board as a primary teacher for a number of years. Later, she was a curriculum director, taught a special reading class and was a First Grade Helping Teacher.

She was a member of the Retired Teachers Organization, Delta Kappa Gamma Society and the P.E.O. Organization.

After retiring in 1981, she did quite a bit of traveling overseas. She enjoyed bowling and playing bridge.

Janie and her husband, Leon, moved back to Claxton in 1992.

She is survived by her husband, Leon E. Bounds, of Claxton; three sisters, Marie Godbee of Claxton, Eola Weeks of Lawrenceville, GA, and Betty NeSmith Edwards of Claxton; special caregiver, Betty DeLoach; and several nieces and nephews.

The funeral was held on Friday, February 9, 2007, at Bay Branch Primitive Baptist Church, with Elder Jackie Wharam officiating. Burial followed in Beard’s Creek Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Jimmie Strickland, Dannie Strickland, Kenneth Durrence, Wayne Durrence, Phil Scott and Wendell Godbee.

Remembrances may be made to Bay Branch Church Cemetery, C/O Marie Godbee, 306 Varnadoe Circle, Claxton, GA, 30417.

J. Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in Claxton was in charge of all the arrangements.

Tina L. Collins, 35

Tina L. Collins, 35, passed away February 9, 2007, after an automobile accident in Jacksonville, Florida.

The Evans County native attended Claxton High School and was of the Baptist faith. She resided in Tattnall County most of her life. She was a sales lady for NeSmith Chevrolet in Hinesville for a number of years before becoming self-employed as an escort driver for “Rig Running.”

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Ossie and Virginia B. Waters.

She is survived by her father and mother, Buddy and Louise Collins of Hagan; two daughters, Brittney M. Rogers of Beaufort, SC, and Taylor Moody of Hagan; two sisters, Ginger Rushing of Claxton and Gina Williamson of Hagan; paternal grandparents, Ellis and Sarah Collins of Hagan; nieces and nephews, Paul and Shavonna Rushing, Adam Rushing, Brooke and Kristie Williamson; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, February 15, 2007, at J. Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home Chapel.

Pallbearers were Kevin Geary, Charles Shanley, Steve Steigman, John DeLoach, Lang Rogers and Glenn Curry.

Honorary Pallbearers were Escort Drivers.

In lieu of flowers, monetary donations may be made for Tina’s children, C/O The Claxton Bank, P.O. Box 247, Claxton, GA 30417.

J. Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home of Claxton was in charge of arrangements.

Dr. Jerry Purcell, 62

Dr. Jerry Purcell, 62, passed away Monday, February 12, 2007, after a long battle with cancer. Dr. Purcell was born in Carlsbad, New Mexico on January 5, 1945, to Henry Elton and Margaret Smith Purcell. He graduated from Glennville High School, Brewton-Parker College and went on to the University of Georgia where he finished with a degree in Pharmacy. He later went back to medical school and received his medical degree in 1986. He returned to Glennville in 1995 and started his private practice. He was an avid photographer and a member of Glennville First Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife, Emmaline R. Purcell of Glennville; a daughter and son-in-law, Tara and Ken Smith of Kingsland; a son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Shane and Hollie Purcell of Anderson, SC; stepsons, Paul & Marcia Coley and Chris Coley, all of Claxton; brother and sister-in-law, J. Bruce and Rita Purcell of Claxton, six grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, February 15, 2007, at 3:00 p.m. at Glennville First Baptist Church with Reverend Keith Rustin and Elder Spencer Moore officiating. Burial will follow in Glennville City Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Brent Walker, Jerry Burkhalter, Willie Durrence, Dr. Louie Petrea, Ray NeSmith, Jimmy McCurdy and Lee Walker.

Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home, Glennville Chapel, is in charge of all the arrangements.

Franklin Ray, 61

Franklin Ray, 61, of Glennville, passed away February 6, 2007, at his residence, under the care of Ogeechee Area Hospice. The Jeff Davis County native had lived in Glennville most of his life. He worked in the construction industry for many years and was a member of Little Rock Baptist Church.

He is survived by brothers and sisters-in-law, Henry and Jean Ray of Bloomingdale, Billy and Debra Ray of Claxton, Ricky and Sandy Ray, Leslie Mizell and Melvin Ray all of Glennville; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held on Friday, February 9, 2007, at the Chapel of Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home with Reverend Brian Anderson officiating. Burial followed in Little Rock Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Randy Walker, Loren Ray, Jimmy Walker, Roy Walker, Larry Walker and Kenny Watson.

Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home in Glennville was in charge of all the arrangements.

Julian E. Sapp, 80

Julian E. Sapp, 80, of Collins, passed away on February 8, 2007, at Evans Memorial Hospital.

Born in Evans County, Mr. Sapp lived all his life in Tattnall County where he was a farmer. He attended Cedar Creek Primitive Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert L. and Etta Jane Sapp; foster parents, Ottie and Debbie Sapp; brothers, Fred, Talmadge and Dean Sapp; sisters, Gladys Jernigan, Tyra Anderson and Merle Bowen.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Laura Mae Sapp of Collins; one son and daughter-in-law, J. Carroll and Cathy Sapp of Glennville; two daughters and a son-in-law, Judy Tidwell of Claxton and Sarah and Leo Rogers of Claxton; two brothers, Robert Sapp, Jr. of Garden City and Gary Sapp of Warner Robbins; three sisters, Leona Justice of Pooler, Bertie Waters of Richmond Hill and Frances Hodges of Claxton; five grandchildren, Jason Sapp, Lee Tidwell, Lori Smith, Megan Suarez and Luke Rogers; and several nieces and nephews.

The funeral was held on Saturday, February 10, 2007, J. Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home Chapel in Claxton. Burial followed in Anderson Cemetery. Remembrances may be made to Pearls of Life Hospice, 119 N. Caswell St., Glennville, GA, 30427; or Cedar Creek Primitive Baptist Church, 2130 Cedar Creek Church Rd. Collins, GA, 30421.

J. Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in Claxton was in charge of all the arrangements.

Deborah Stiver, 53

Ms. Deborah Stiver, 53, of Cobbtown, died Friday, February 9, 2007.

She is survived by her mother, Wanda Sellers; a brother, Dennis English and a nephew, Dennis English, Jr.

Funeral services were held on Sunday, February 11, 2007, at South Thompson Cemetery in Toombs County.

Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home of Reidsville was in charge of the arrangements.

Obituaries for February 8, 2007

Tommie Joe Barnes, 79

Tommie Joe Barnes, 79, died Wednesday, January 31, 2007, at St. Joseph’s Hospital. The Clarke County native had lived in this area since 1993. He was retired from the U.S. Army and enjoyed fishing, hunting, cooking, gardening, and Atlanta Braves baseball. He was also a devoted grandfather who enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Iona (Penny) DeLoach Barnes of Glennville; children, Janet and Buck Reddish, Bobby and Ann Barnes, Richard Barnes, all of Glennville and Jimmy and Michelle Barnes of Augusta; sister, Mary Brooks of Locust Grove, GA; grandchildren, Joey Barnes, Caden Barnes, Jennifer (Ron) Barrow, Jaime (Dustin) Rogers, Joedi Barnes, Jordyn Reddish and Jessica Barnes and a great-grandchild, Jayden Rogers.

Funeral Services were held on Saturday, February 3, 2007, at the chapel of Brannen-Kennedy Funeral home with Reverend Oscar Rowe Jr. officiating. Burial followed in the DeLoach Family Cemetery with Military Honors.

Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Pastor Freddie Lee Clay, 60

Pastor Freddie Lee Clay, 60, of Reidsville, was called to eternal rest on January 31, 2007. He was born in Tattnall County on January 13, 1947, to the late Mr. Wilford and Mrs. Maggie Lee Clay. He became a member of Springfield Missionary Baptist Church where he served as pianist, President of the Choir and as a Deacon. He retired in 2001 from Georgia State Prison where he worked as a Vocational Welding Instructor. In 2004, God called him to preach the Gospel. He became the Pastor of New Life Missionary Baptist Church in Aline, Georgia, in January 2005.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of thirty-eight years, Mrs. Joyce Ann Clay of Reidsville; two sons, Freddy Onassis (Lutrenda) Clay of Claxton and Ferdinand Clay of Reidsville; a daughter, Angela Lea (Robin) Bellamy also of Claxton; one sister, Ms. Katie Clay of Glenvue Nursing Home in Glennville; one brother, James (Trendle) Clay of Reidsville; eight loving grandchildren, Andre Gardner, Aaron Gardner, Nijja Clay, Tyler Clay, Tyquan Williams, Tyquilla Williams, Monique Bellamy and Keona Durham; children that he raised, Sausha Young, Danette Laurent, Linda Johnson Jones, Christa DeLoach, Renae Laurent, Katie Brown Smith; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

His Home-Going Celebration was held on Saturday, February 3, 2007, at Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Cobbtown, Georgia, with Reverend Artis Carswell and Dr. Lorenzo P. McNeal officiating. He was laid to rest in Sandhill Cemetery in Reidsville, Georgia.

Pallbearers were the Deacons of Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Church and Deacons of St. Luke Independent Methodist Church.

Avie Lou Fowler, 87

Avie Lou Fowler, age 87, of Uvalda died Thursday, February 1, 2007, in the Meadow Nursing Center of Vidalia after an extended illness. She was a native of Toombs County, living most of her life in the area. She was a member of Smyrna United Methodist Church in Uvalda.

She was preceded in death by her husband Edgar Fowler, son Horace Fowler, and grandsons Tony Fowler and James Edward Fowler.

She is survived by three sons: James Fowler and wife Sylvia of Mount Vernon, Durwood Fowler and wife Opal of Lyons, Lester Fowler and wife Marsha of Swainsboro; one daughter Gloris Hunter and husband Larry of Vidalia; 12 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild; two sisters, Myrtis Chambers of Uvalda, Velma Foskey of Uvalda; and one brother, Carl Neesmith, of Darien. Several nieces and nephew also survive.

Funeral sevices were held Saturday, February 3, 2007, from the Stewart Funeral Services Vidalia Chapel with Reverend David Aycock, Reverend Nita-Crump Howard and Reverend John Stephens officiating. Interment followed in the Smyrna United Methodist Church Cemetery.

Stewart Funeral Service of Vidalia is in charge of arrangements.

Mildred Scott Groover, 91

Mildred Scott Groover, 91, passed away Thursday morning, February 1, 2007, at Evans Memorial Hospital. The Tattnall County native had lived in Savannah for twenty years before moving back to Reidsville in the 70’s. She graduated from Georgia Southern College and taught for ten years at White Bluff Elementary School in Savannah and various other schools in Tattnall County berfore retiring from the Reidsville Elementary School. She was a member of Rome Primitive Baptist Church, Tattnall County Retired Teachers’ Association, the VFW Auxiliary and was preceded in death by her husband, Clifford W. Groover; parents, Jesse N. and Ellen Kennedy Scott; granddaughter, Michelle McBride; sisters, Mary Fry, Daisy Neighbors, Ella Mae Black; and brothers, J. N. Scott, Elder Fred M. Scott, and Thomas K. Scott.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Patricia and Matthew McBride of Reidsville; a brother and sisters-in-law, Hugh and Mary Sue Scott and Eula Mae Scott, all of Reidsville; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Saturday, February 3 at 2 p.m. at the Chapel of Bradley B. Anderson Funeral Home in Reidsville conducted by Rev. Steve Miller. Burial followed in Rome Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Jerry Groover, Bobby Collins, Hunter Davis, Jack Groover, Thomas Groover and Mike Alexander. Honorary Pallbearers were members of the Joy Sunday School Class, Tattnall County Retired Teachers’ Association and VFW Auxiliary.

Bradley B. Anderson Funeral Home of Reidsville was in charge of the arrangements.

Eugene Charles O’Berry, 70

Eugene Charles O’Berry, 70, entered into eternal rest Tuesday, January 30, 2007, at his residence surrounded by his wife and children. The McIntosh County native had lived in Long County for the past 37 years. He was a heavy equipment operator for Rayonier Corporation, retiring in 1998 after 23 years of service. He was a member and deacon of Pigott Branch Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Jane Johnson O’Berry of Long County; his sons and daughters-in-laws, Billy and Jeannie O’Berry of Waynesboro, Mike and Tori O’Berry of Townsend, Ken and Trish Moon of Ludowici; daughters and sons-in-laws, Sherry and Rusty Bailey, Eilene and Randy Moody, Sharmon and Bubba Howard, all of Ludowici and Diane and Randy Groover of Hinesville; brother, Ernie O’Berry of Darien; sisters, Lorie Johnson and Edith Poppell of Long County, Rudell Howard of South Newport, Louise Martin and Pauline Lasseur of Jesup and Eunice Eason of Bristol,16 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Friday, February 2, 2007, at Pigott Branch Baptist Church with Reverend Tommy Ray and Reverend Oscar Rowe, Jr. officiating. Burial followed in Pigott Branch Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Douglas Walter, Archie Poppell, Wayne Parker, Dale Moody, Ken Moon and Simmy Driggers Sr. Honorary Pallbearers were Cecil Nobles and Gus Nobles.

Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home in Glennville was in charge of the arrangements.

Wallace Harold Oliver, 67

Mr. Wallace Harold Oliver, 67, of Collins died Monday at Community Hospice in Vidalia. The Tattnall County native and lifelong resident was a retired drywall contractor. He served four years in the National Guard and attended Little Flock Primitive Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Paula Sapp Oliver; parents, Ivy and Dorothy Oliver and three brothers, Daniel, Donald and Calvin Oliver.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Anderson Oliver of Collins; two sons, Thomas Oliver of Reidsville and Mack Oliver of Collins; four daughters, Kathy Clark of Reidsville, Cindy Willis of Glennville, Renee’ Phillips of Reidsville, and Tina Daly of Statesboro; one step-son, Tim Anderson of Collins; three brothers, Hugh, Wendell and Kenneth Oliver, all of Collins; three sisters, Patsy Driggers and Marlene Sanders, both of Collins, and Linda Hodges of Chattanooga, TN; nine grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and three step-grandchildren.

Graveside funeral services were held on Wednesday, February 7, 2007, at Little Flock Cemetery with Reverend Franklin Sasser officiating.

Pallbearers were family members.

Kennedy Funeral Home in Cobbtown was in charge of the arrangements.

Thelma Olliff Scarboro, 92

Mrs. Thelma Olliff Scarboro, 92, died Thursday, February 1, 2007, at her residence under the care of Ogeechee Area Hospice. The Candler County native lived most of her life in Bulloch County. Mrs. Scarboro was a homemaker who loved to bake and crochet. She was well known for her homemade cakes and beautifully crocheted scarves and table covers. She enjoyed giving to others and was a member of Rosemary Primitive Baptist Church.

Her husband of 57 years, Cecil S. Scarboro; a granddaughter, Ashley Lee Scarboro; three sisters, Eloise Lamb, Mandy Lott and Mary Loise Waller and a brother, Raymond Olliff, preceded Mrs. Scarboro in death.

Surviving are a daughter and son-in-law, Janet and Dale Madson of Statesboro; a son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Joyce Scarboro of Glennville; two sister, Annie Laurie Reddick of Portal and Lorine Hendricks of Metter; 8 grandchildren, Stacey (Lisa) Scarboro of Claxton, Shad Scarboro of Wayne, PA, Heather Scarboro of Claxton, Ryan Madson of Savannah, Preston Madson of Brooklyn, NY, Houston (Brandy) Madson, Austin Madson and Lauren Madson all of Statesboro; three great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Saturday, February 3, 2007, in the chapel of Joiner-Anderson Funeral Home with Elder Sam Bowen and Elder Tommy Roundtree officiating. Burial followed in the Rosemary Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family requests that any memorial contributions be made to Ogeechee Area Hospice, P.O. Box 531, Statesboro, GA 30459.

Joiner-Anderson Funeral Home was in charge of the services.

Thelma Alston Tensley, 89

Thelma Alston Tensley was born on March 17, 1917, in Tattnall County, Georgia, to the late Leo James Alston and America James Alston. She was the third child of six. She departed this life on Sunday evening, January 28, 2007, at home with her loving family.

She, along with her sister, Lucille, and brothers, Willie Lee, Gerney Wesley, Nathaniel, and Ulysses, attended the Tattnall County School System. Thelma continued her education at Dorchester Academy in Midway, GA, where she acquired her high school diploma.

Thelma pursued several career choices. She finished Beauty Culture School, was a seamstress, a baker and a homemaker.

Edmund Samuel Tensley, an agricultural major, moved to the farming town of Glennville where he met his future bride, Thelma Alston. They were married on October 29, 1946. She then became a homemaker and business manager for Ed. She kept the books, did the payroll, picked up workers and took them home if they needed a ride. She was that Psalms 31 phenomenal woman.

Thelma and Ed, in 1948 adopted into their family their niece, Ann Marie, whom they spoiled rotten but loved very much anyway. They supported her in all of her endeavors; taking piano lessons, playing basketball, singing in the school chorus, and most of all making sure she did her very best. Education took top priority over everything.

Thelma loved the Lord and made Him head over her house. At an early age, she joined First African Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend E. J. Junior. She served on the Usher board and secretary of the Usher Board Ministry until her health started to decline.

One of her joys was inviting over the preacher for dinner where she made her famous fried chicken, potato salad, and pound cake. Friends and family would always stop by to visit to get some of Thelma’s cake and other sweet treats.

Thelma loved her family. If there was anything they needed — go to the doctor, grocery shopping, a meal or someone just to sit and talk — they could count on her. She also loved to fish; when she was not doing good deeds, she was somewhere fishing.

Thelma was an active member of The Star of Glennville #162 of Order of The Eastern Star.

She will surely be missed by her daughter, Ann and son-in-law, Jacyne of Atlanta, GA; a niece she raised from the age of seven, Kim E. (Pearlie) Stewart of Virginia Beach, VA; a sister-in-law, Rosa Lee Alston of Glennville, GA; a step brother Oscar Jenkins (Victoria) of Glennville, GA; three grandchildren, Kisha Gibson of Tchula, MS, Tony James of Cleveland, OH, JaNae Gibson of Atlanta, GA; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Funeral services were held Saturday, February 3 at 11 a.m. at First African Missionary Baptist Church in Glennville conducted by Rev. Martin Bacon. Nephews served as pallbearers. Burial was in Robert Chapel Cemetery.

King and Sons Funeral Home of Glennville was in charge of arrangements. Condolences can be given online at www.kingbrothersfh.com.

Obituaries for February 1, 2007

Herbert H. Callaway, 76

Mr. Herbert H. Callaway, 76, of Claxton, GA, passed away January 29, 2007, at Tattnall Community Hospital. He was a Tattnall County native and a retired farmer.

He is survived by his wife, Loretta Boyett Callaway of Claxton; two sons and daughters-in-law, Eldon and Darlene Callaway and Terry and Shana Callaway, all of Claxton; one daughter and son-in-law, Robin and Floyd Boyett of Claxton; one nephew, James Callaway; step-children, Anthony and Donna Boyett of Reidsville, Gregory and Rhonda Boyett of Collins, Alfred and Stacy Boyett of Savannah and Phyllis Johnson of Athens; 17 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held January 31, 2007 at J. Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home Chapel with Reverends David Hagan, Steve Kimbrell and Tommy Lynn officiating. Burial followed in Anderson Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Chance Callaway, Corey Boyett, Cole Callaway, Taylor Boyett, David Faircloth, Trevor Boyett, Luke Callaway, Noah Callaway and Cody Boyett. Honorary Pallbearers were the classmates of Collins High School class of 1948.

Remembrances may be sent to Tattnall Community Hospital, 247 South Main St., Reidsville, GA 30453.

J. Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

Donnie Mackinnon, 44

Donnie Mackinnon, 44, passed away Friday, January 26, 2007, at the Medical Center of Central Georgia in Macon. He had lived most of his life in Tattnall County and formerly worked for the Department of Corrections. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lucy Lively and Kenneth Ray Mackinnon.

He is survived by two daughters and son-in-law, Brandi and Will Sellers of Lumber City and Mary Jean Brock of Reidsville; a son, Scotty Mackinnon of Reidsville; a sister, Terri Brooks of Macon; two brothers and sister-in-law, John and Jane Mackinnon of Reidsville and David Mackinnon of Byron, GA; two grandchildren, Kyleigh and Chathyn Sellers of Lumber City and several nieces and nephews.

Memorial services were held 3:00 p.m. Sunday, January 28, 2007, at the Chapel of Bradley B. Anderson Funeral Home with Rev. Steve Miller officiating.

Bradley B. Anderson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Bonnell Thompson Manuel, 47

Mrs. Bonnell Thompson Manuel passed away Monday, January 22, 2007, in Clearwater, FL after a 13-month battle with cancer. She was a native to Toombs County, living in Toombs and Tattnall Counties most of her life before moving to Clearwater in 1998. She was a leasing agent for “Imperial Palms of Largo.” She was a 1977 graduate of Reidsville High School and was preceded in death by her parents, William Thompson and Hazel Smith Thompson and two sisters, Beverly Kay Wilson and Lisa Gail Knight. She was a good-spirited woman with kindness that was inexhaustible. Her continual and authentically pleasant disposition made her a joy to those who knew her.

Bonnell is survived by her husband, Thomas Manuel of Clearwater, FL; one step-son, Coite Manuel of Washington, D.C.; one step-daughter, Katherine Manuel of Birmingham, AL; her step-mother, Tommie Thompson of Lyons; four sisters and brothers-in-law, Becky and Danny Anderson of Reidsville, Judy and Paul Copeland, Brandy and Chris West and Kathy Bush all of Lyons; two brothers, Brad Thompson of Reidsville and Randy Bush of Lyons, and several aunts and uncles.

Memorial services for Mrs. Manuel were held Tuesday, January 30, 2007 at 4:00 p.m. in the chapel of Murchison Funeral Home with Reverend Andy Williams officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Susan G. Komen Foundation for the Cure of Breast Cancer, P.O. Box 14452, St. Petersburg, Florida 33733.

Vernice Todd Purvis, 72

Mrs. Vernice Todd Purvis passed away Thursday, January 25, 2007, at Candler Hospital in Savannah. The Tattnall County native had lived in Glennville all of her life. She was retired from Civil Service at Ft. Stewart, was a homemaker and a member of Glennville First Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, William Marion and Edith Meeker Todd; brothers, Karl Todd and Otis Todd; husband, Harry Lee Purvis and daughter Lee Ann Purvis Smith.

She is survived by her daughter, Kelly P. Brown; grandson, Matt Brown; sister, Willa Mae Durrence, all of Glennville and sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Betty Durrence of Midway, Opal Purvis and Dolly Todd, both of Glennville and Jimmy and Ann Purvis of Savannah. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Funeral services were held Sunday, January 28, 2007, at the Chapel of Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home with Reverend Milton E. Purvis Jr. officiating. Burial followed at the Glennville City Cemetery.

Pallbearers were John Lee Purvis, Jr., Bryant Jones, Cliff Kicklighter, Bob Crump, Jonathan Goodman and Zachary Blackwelder.

Brannen-Kennedy Funeral Home of Glennville was in charge of the arrangements.

John Charles Rogers, 50

John Charles Rogers, 50, passed away January 28, 2007, at his home in Reidsville.

He was born and raised in Miami, Florida and was of the Baptist faith. He moved to the Evans-Tattnall area 11 years ago.

He is survived by one aunt, Floreine Creel of Myrtle Beach, SC; cousins, Sharon Mitchell, Dennis and Richard DeLoach, all of Claxton; and caretakers, Volunteers of America.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, January 31, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. at J. Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in Claxton. Burial followed in Bull Creek Cemetery.

J. Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.