Purvis Funeral Home and Maxwell - Purvis Funeral Home, 207 E. Mitchell Street, Adel, GA (2026)

03/07/2026

Nellie Frank McElroy John transitioned home March 6, 2026 at Presbyterian Villages, Athens, Georgia. She had just celebrated her 90th birthday in January with family and friends. She was born in Opelika, Alabama in 1936 to the Rev. Dr. and Mrs. Frank H McElroy, Sr. By 1940 she was living in Quitman, Georgia where she spent her childhood in a family that grew in number to include 8 siblings. Nellie Frank, being an older sister, played an important role in the family as “mom” to the little ones when her mother asked for her help. The younger siblings have stories of receiving her loving care.

After high school, Nellie Frank received her nurse’s training from Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta. She worked as a nurse at Crawford W. Long in Atlanta for a time before attending Duke University to be trained as a nurse anesthetist. She worked in the public sector for several years before joining the US Air Force, receiving the commission of Captain and began to serve our country as a nurse anesthetist. She was stationed at Blytheville Air Force Base (now Eaker Air Force Base) in Blytheville, Arkansas where she met Lieutenant Colonel Lemuel N. John, Jr. Her brother Bill and his wife Dot arranged for their wedding to be held at Hermitage Presbyterian Church in Hermitage, Tennessee. As a married couple, they served our country wherever they were stationed until their retirement.

In retirement Nell was a volunteer at the Pediatrics Clinic at Moody AF Base in Valdosta. She and Lemuel volunteered to deliver Meals on Wheels weekly and always on Christmas day. Nell and Lemuel were volunteers for many of the projects sponsored by First Presbyterian Church in Valdosta.

Nell’s family was a top priority. At every family gathering you will hear stories of her involvement with her siblings and their families. She and Lemuel did not have children of their own but they enjoyed being connected to Nell’s siblings and their families. Any puppy that found a home with Nell was treated like a family member. Her last one was Jackie and the two of them brought love and joy to each other and anyone who came to their home.

Nell’s faith was a top priority. She was born into a Presbyterian home and she remained a lifelong Presbyterian. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Valdosta, Georgia at the time of her death. She had been an active member since she and Lemuel retired and chose Valdosta as their retirement home.

A graveside service will be held Monday, March 9, 2026 at 4:00 PM at Oak Hill Cemetery in Quitman with Pastor Jane Shelton officiating.

If you wish to honor Nell with a gift, please consider sending a donation to Presbyterian Home Caring Hands Fund, P.O. Box 926, Quitman, GA 31643.

03/07/2026

Tiften Willis Griffin, known affectionately to all as Tiften, passed away on March 5, 2026, in Morven. Born on June 18, 1993, in Hahira, GA, Tiften's infectious humor, impeccable manners, and boundless generosity became the hallmark of his 32 years of life.

Tiften's journey began as the cherished son of Rex Griffin of Morven and the late Barbara Griffin. Tiften's love for sports was evident from a young age as he enthusiastically participated in youth league football and baseball, showcasing his team spirit and determination. His athletic journey continued into high school, where he discovered a passion for soccer. Beyond sports, Tiften had a profound love for music, a passion connecting moments of joy and solace.

Tiften's kindness and wit made him a loyal friend, one who nurtured his relationships with a sincerity that was felt by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. As a devoted brother, Tiften's siblings—Troy Griffin of Brunswick, Tony (Lindsey) Griffin of Adel, and Tesa Griffin (Dustin Barrett) of Morven—knew they could always count on him for support, laughter, and the kind of advice that only a loving brother could give.

Above all, Tiften was a loving father to his sons, Tate and Westen Griffin of Morven. His love for them was as vast as the sky, and he instilled in them the values of kindness, humor, and generosity that he himself embodied. Tiften's legacy will live on through his sons, as they carry forward the lessons and love he imparted.

Tiften's life was a tapestry woven with the love of his nieces and nephews—Hunter, River, Milleigh, Blayton, Brock, Brexton, and Kenna. Each of them held a special place in his heart, and he cherished every moment spent with them, whether it was sharing a joke, playing a game, or simply being present in their lives.

The void left by Tiften's passing is immeasurable, yet the memories of his kind spirit, his laughter, and his generous nature will continue to bring comfort to all who knew him. Tiften's impact on the world was as positive as his outlook on life, and his memory will be treasured forever.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, March 8, 2026 at Morven Baptist Church at 3:00 p.m. with Rev. Jim Pitt officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery. The family will be receiving friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

02/28/2026

Bethany Grace Harper, age 33, of Waycross, Georgia, passed from this life on February 26, 2026. She was born on February 2, 1993, in Waycross, Georgia, to Johnny and Renee Harper. From an early age, Bethany developed a deep love for the Lord. She loved to sing songs to the glory of God, and her heart for worship was evident to all who knew her.

Bethany graduated from Berrien County High School in 2012. Throughout her life, she faced ongoing sickness with strength and perseverance. Though her body was often weak, her spirit remained tender and steadfast. Her endurance reflected a grace that sustained her through many difficult days.

Bethany was a kind and gentle soul. She had a sweetness about her that drew people in. She loved her family fiercely and treasured her friendships. Her laughter, her voice, and her caring spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Above all, Bethany loved her daughter, Raylee, who was the joy of her life. She cherished every moment with her and poured into her with tenderness and devotion.

She is survived by her parents, Johnny and Renee Harper; her beloved daughter, Raylee; her brothers, John and Ben Harper; her devoted boyfriend of nine years, Eric Collier; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins who will forever hold her memory close.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, John and Linda Mercer, Wylene and J.P. Courson, and Janice Harper, and by her aunt Tammy and John Wayne Mercer.

Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we do not sorrow as those who have no hope. We take comfort in the promise that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord, and we look forward to the day when we will be reunited in Christ.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of God, 8588 Albany Hwy, Axson, GA 31624 with Rev. John Cox officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. The family will be receiving friends Monday evening from 6-8 p.m. at Purvis Funeral Home.

02/26/2026

John Ralph Patrick, Jr.,75, better known as “Johnny” passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026 at Parkwood Developmental Center in Valdosta. Johnny was born August 25, 1950 to the late John Ralph Patrick, Sr., and Eula Mae Miller Patrick, Johnny was a bright light for his family and friends. Though he could not speak, his eyes and big smile told you exactly what he was thinking. He had a contagious laugh and a spirit that reminded everyone of the beauty in simple joys.
Johnny loved all things red – from firetrucks, cars, to his favorite caps and teddy bears. He was a fan of sweet treats, especially ice cream and his mother’s homemade banana pudding. Some of his happiest moments were spent riding with his nephew, Craig, revving the truck’s engine and honking the horn.
Survivors include his sisters, Montene Patrick Williams, and Marjorie Patrick Drew; nieces, Denise Gipson, Zinda (Robin) McDaniel, Amy Drew, and Dale Planner; nephews, Craig (Sheila) Drew, and Keith (Rose) Planner; great nieces & great nephews, Bridgett (Zac) White, Amber Drew, Nikki (Robby) Atkinson, Ashley (Brandon) Griggs, Meagan (Mark) Shahin, Tiffany Planner, Samantha Planner, Drew (Ashley) McDaniel, Phillip (Roxanne) Todd, and Shawn (Mallory) Todd. A large legacy of great, great nieces and nephews. Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters, Ann Patrick Planner; nephew, Vince Williams; and his brothers-in-law, John A. Williams, and Billy Drew.
Serving as pallbearers are Robin McDaniel, Craig Drew, Drew McDaniel, Keith Planner, Steve Palmer, Zac White, and Zain White.
The family wishes to express their eternal gratitude to the staff at Parkwood Developmental Center, Johnny’s home for 44 years. Their awesome care and genuine love made them an extension of his family. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to Parkwood Development Center in Johnny’s memory to support other individuals with special needs.
Funeral services will be held Friday, February 27, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Elam Baptist Church, 5334 Grooverville Rd., Quitman, GA with Rev. Steve Shierling officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. The family will be receiving friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

02/26/2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Brenda Renee Walker, born December 13, 1972. Affectionately known as “Nae” to those closest to her, Renee lived her life with boldness, humor, and a spirit that refused to be dimmed.
Renee was preceded in death by her parents, Herman Levon Walker and Bobbie Frances Walker, as well as her beloved brother, Edward Levon Walker.
She leaves behind her devoted sister, Mary Frances Hogan, and her loving wife, Melanie Anne Daniels. She is also survived by her niece and nephew, Nicholas and Mandy Hogan. She is further survived by her extended family — Tammy and Hunter O’Neal, Jerri, Chris, and Casey — along with many friends who became family over the years
Renee was sassy, quick-witted, funny, and unapologetically outspoken. She had a sharp sense of humor and a fearless way of speaking her truth. Whether she was making someone laugh or sharing her unfiltered opinion, she did it with confidence and heart. She loved deeply in her own way and stood firmly in who she was.
Though her absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, her voice, her laughter, and her spirit will continue to live on in the memories of those who knew her.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

02/23/2026

Nancy Louise McDonald of Stuart, FL died peacefully on February 4, 2026. She was 96 years old. Nancy was born in Hahira, GA on November 1, 1929. She grew up on a successful to***co farm during the Great Depression. She graduated from Hahira High School, then attended Southern Business University in Atlanta in 1946. She was a model for two years in Miami, FL and married Jerry Piccolo Sr in 1948. They raised three children in Hialeah, FL and lived a great life until they divorced in 1966. Nancy married Harry Lewis in 1970 and lived a happy life together in Hollywood, FL until they amicably divorced in 1976.

Nancy worked for the State of Florida Department of Transportation from 1970 to 1994. She had many dear friends in that era and they enjoyed great times together. She sang in the choir at Sheridan Hills Baptist Church for many years. She was proud to be a descendant of James McGrannahan, who composed many hymns. Nancy moved to Stuart, FL in 1995 and then to Jupiter, FL to spend time with family. She was very close to her son Jerry Piccolo Jr. (and his wife Carolyn) and her daughter Gloria Lawrence (and her husband Dan). She was especially fond of her grandchildren Jerry Piccolo III, Ryan Piccolo, Luke Lawrence and Eric Lawrence. In recent years she was most fond of their wives and her six great grandchildren.

Nancy was the second oldest child of Ada and Tress McDonald. She was preceded in death by all of her siblings; Lloyd, Inez, Ellen, Vic and Dave. Life was tough during the depression and each sibling had specific responsibilities around the house and the farm. They grew up close and remained close throughout their lives. Nancy and her siblings were talented singers and piano players. Nancy was sad to leave us upon her passing, but was joyously met by her family and friends in heaven upon arrival.

Nancy and her siblings had 14 children; Stevie, Jerry, Gloria, Karl, Mark, Loren, Dave, Victor, Violet, Wynn, Vicky, Judy, Nancy and Dottie. We have enjoyed McDonald Family Reunions since 2005 and are now joined by some of Nancy’s and her sibling’s 19 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. Nancy and her siblings and parents will be honored and talked about for many years to come.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Purvis Funeral Home with Rev. Karl Wassmuth officiating. Interment will follow at Friendship Cemetery in Hahira. The family will be receiving friends Saturday evening, February 28, 2026 from 6-8:30 at Purvis Funeral Home.

02/22/2026

Caleb Daniel Abney

09/24/1999 – 02/19/2026, Age 26

Officer Caleb Daniel Abney, Caleb by family and friends, departed this transitory world and joined his loving grandparents in Heaven at the feet of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

Caleb was born on September 24, 1999 at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio. As his mother was a U. S. Air Force nurse, Caleb grew up, along with his 3 siblings, at Wright Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio; Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi and Moody Air Force Base in Valdosta, Georgia, where the family put down roots when his parents retired from their careers.

Caleb graduated from Lowndes County High School in Valdosta, Georgia, Class of 2018. He received an Associate Degree in Science Criminal Justice from SNHU in 2020.

Caleb was an avid hunter and fisherman, and enjoyed many other outdoor activities, never wanting to be stuck indoors. He loved getting his hands greasy working on automobile engines and farming implements.

Caleb met the love of his life, Jordan Alexis Hicks, in 2022. In early 2025 he snuck away to Puerto Rico, while his sisters and Jordan were there on a “girls” trip and asked for her hand in marriage. She said “Yes”. The young couple bought a house together and set an “I Do” date of April 18, 2026.

Caleb was talented in many areas of social conversation but especially “the gift of jocularity”. He could take the dullest of stories or events, and have his audience “rolling on the floor” in laughter until they could no longer breath.

Caleb had a heart for public service and joined the Hahira Police Department after working for Lowndes County Fire and Rescue.

In his short tenure as a Hahira, Georgia Police Officer, Caleb, because of his cheerful personality, had the ability to make people feel “OK” when he gave them a ticket. He even told one person to “Quit crying, you’re not a criminal”. He was awarded “Good Cop of the Week” by an attorney out of Tennessee who did police audits after his traffic stop.

Caleb was preceded in death by his grandparents, Alfred E. Abney, Betty J. Abney, Arthur G. Dorough and Virginia A. Dorough.

He is survived by his parents: William J. Abney and Laurie A. Abney; fiancée: Jordan A. Hicks; siblings: Seth R. Abney; Shannon F. Williams (Matthew), Brittany A. Abney; nephews: Liam C. Williams, Nolan R. Williams, Owen K. Williams. In his own crazy special, made-up word, he loved "allboff'em."

The family will receive friends and family, Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 4:00 PM at Purvis Funeral Home, 207 E. Mitchell Street, Adel, Ga., 31620. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 2:00 PM at the Lowndes High School, Martin Stadium, 2007 Valhalla Dr, Valdosta, GA 31601 with Reverend Mike Davis officiating. A private interment will follow.

Purvis Funeral Home of Adel, GA, Directing

02/21/2026

Joan Clark, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Adel on the 19th of February, 2026. Born on August 31, 1958, in Reading, Pennsylvania, Joan's warm spirit and infectious smile blessed this world for 67 years.

Joan, known affectionately by those close to her, leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication. She is survived by her devoted husband, Kyle Clark of Adel, with whom she shared a beautiful and adventurous life. Together, they traveled and created countless cherished memories. Joan's love for her family was immeasurable, and she took immense pride in her sons, Shawn (Mary) Fisher of Adel, Josh (Leanna) Southerland of Sparks, Brandon (Jessica) Southerland of Sparks, and Matthew (Lauren) Southerland of Alpharetta, GA. Her role as a grandmother was one she cherished deeply, always showering Colby (Skyla) Fisher, Kingsley Fisher, Addison Southerland, Klaire Southerland, Annaleigh Touchton, and Payton Touchton with affection and love. The family joyfully anticipates the arrival of a great baby girl Southerland due in April.

Joan's siblings held a special place in her heart. She is remembered by her sister, Robin (Donnie) Brown of Nashville, and brothers, Clay Fisher and Hal Fisher, both of San Diego, CA, and Mark (Mischele) Fisher of Winterhaven, FL. Her half brothers, Wesley Roach and Billy Roach of Cullman, AL, also share in the family's loss. Joan's life was preceded by the passing of her parents, Harvey & Elaine Fisher, and her sister, Cheryl Graveman.

Professionally, Joan was respected and admired for her work as an accountant at Williams Investment. Her work ethic was unparalleled, and her thoughtful approach to her career won her the respect and friendship of many colleagues.

Joan's interests and passions were as varied as they were rich. A hard worker by nature, she found great enjoyment in her time off, especially when it involved traveling with her husband. Joan's adventurous spirit was paired with a loving and thoughtful nature, qualities that she carried into every aspect of her life. Those who knew Joan would speak of her generous spirit, her readiness to lend a helping hand, and her ability to make everyone around her feel valued and loved.

Funeral services will be held Monday, February 23, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Purvis Funeral Home with Pastor Ashley Way and Rev. Ike Jefferson officiating. Interment will follow at Antioch Church Cemetery. The family will be receiving friends one hour prior to the service at Purvis Funeral Home.

Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to the Pearlman Cancer Center, 2501 N. Patterson St., Valdosta, GA. 31602.

02/19/2026

Jeremiah Jowers, 37 of Moultrie passed away Thursday, February 12, 2026 at his home. Jeremiah was born November 4, 1988 in Douglas to Raymond Jowers & Jodeyn Jowers. He was a jack of all trades. Jeremiah loved his family and children. He was always very helpful to everyone.
Survivors include his wife, Jamena Jowers of Moultrie; brother, Tyler (Faith) Carter of Lenox; sister, Jennifer Carter of Moultrie; nephew, Riven Carter; several cousins; stepsons, Clayton of Moultrie, Eddie, Bubba J and Dalton of Ohio; and stepdaughter, Kayla.
Funeral services will be held Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Purvis Funeral Home. A private interment will be held.

02/19/2026

Darvin Eason, 86 of Lenox passed away at his home on February 16, 2026. Darvin was born December 11, 1939 in Screven, GA to the late J. B. & Mildred Eason. He graduated from Screven High School in 1957 and then from UGA in 1963 with a BS in Agriculture. After college, Darvin worked for the Ralson Purina Company until opening his own business, Lenox Ag Services in 1977.

He served as vice-president of Water for Life Haiti. Water For Life's mission is to provide clean drinking water, irrigation for farming, education, and other means of assistance to the people of southern Haiti. Darvin also served as Chairman of the Board of the Georgia Agribusiness Council and was later named Director Emeritus, he was named Progressive Farmer Magazine's Man of the Year in 1996, and he served as President of the Georgia Peanut Producer's Association from 1999 - 2000.

Being deeply involved in and loving what he did, Darvin was awarded the Blair W. Davis Outstanding Service Award from the Georgia Plant Food Educational Society in 2000. He proudly served as Chairman of the Board for South Central Georgia Gin Co. for over three decades.

Darvin was a member of Lakeview Baptist Church. He was a loyal fan of the Georgia Bulldogs football team and was never far from a T. V. or radio when they played. Along with cheering on the bulldogs, Darvin enjoyed fishing and spending time with his grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, Nancy Eason of Lenox; son, Robbie Eason of Lenox; daughter, Wendy Eason of Colquitt County; his loving grandchildren, Brandon (Jodi) Rutland of Lenox, Dyanna (Chris) Purvis of Lenox, Jake (Paula) Eason of Lenox, Emily (Danie) Morris of Lenox, Brendon Brouillette of Talking Rock, GA, and Perry Eason of Lenox; and a special great grandchild, Grant Eason of Lenox; and one sister, Louise Burch of St. Marys, GA. Darvin was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Eason; and two sisters, Helen Evors, and Juanita Cox.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. at Lakeview Baptist Church with Pastor Craig Snyder, Rev. Rodney Peavy and Mr. Greg Brezina officiating. The family will be receiving friends from 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. at the church.

02/17/2026

Polly Ann Parrott DeVane, 84 of Quitman, passed peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at Langdale Hospice House after a brief illness. She was born in Hahira, GA to Val Alan Parrott, Sr. and Anna Inez Golding Parrott. Ms. Polly married Kenneth Wiley DeVane on March 24, 1963, and for 47 wonderful years, until his passing on December 20, 2010.
She is survived by her children, Sharon (David) Waters of Quitman and Dean DeVane of Jacksonville, Florida,; loving grandchildren and great grandchildren, Lindsey & Brooks Garrett, Emery, Brooklyn & Brynn of Hahira; Stacie & Richmond Hall, Layla & Koben of Hahira; Devon & Chloe DeVane, Blakleigh Kate and Ava Claire of Lake Park, GA, Madison DeVane of Chicago, IL., and Emily Waters of Dothan, Al; brother, Val Alan Parrott, Jr. and wife Bonnie; brother-in-law, Lynwood Davis; sister-in-law, Linda Parrott; and a host of nieces and nephews whom she cherished.
She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and sisters, Dorothy Dot (Waymon) Patrick, Janet Davis, and Susan Parrott; brother, Glenn Parrott and brother-in-law, Ben DeVane (Mildred).
She was loved, adored and affectionately known as Nana to her Family, and Ms. Polly to her friends and social circles. She enjoyed laughing, shopping, traveling and watching the grandchildren play sports or whatever school and church activities they were part of. They could always count on Nana to be smiling, applauding and cheering them on. She was also known for baking special family birthday and holiday cakes, and her famous “Scotcheroo” treats that all the family and friends absolutely loved.
She retired from The State of Georgia Behavioral Health Services supporting Brooks County, after many years as Secretary and Administrative Assistant for Westbrook School in Dixie, Georgia.
Polly was an active member of Philadelphia Baptist Church where she loved helping the youth with VBS and meeting with the ladies group. She also enjoyed quilting with her friends at Sharing Stitches in Barwick, Georgia. She made multiple quilts for all her children and grandchildren, and great grands. It was a labor of love which will be cherished forever.
Graveside Services will be held Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery with Rev. Klay Luke officiating. The family will be receiving friends Wednesday evening from 6-8 p.m. at Maxwell - Purvis Funeral Home.
Donations honoring Mrs. Polly Parrott DeVane may be made to Philadelphia Baptist Church Youth Program, 3091 Troupeville Rd., Quitman, GA 31643.

02/14/2026

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Patricia Tanner of Quitman, Georgia on February 11, 2026. Pat as she was known, was born in Del Ray, Texas, but moved to Columbus, GA when just an infant and attended school and grew up there. She married Jack Tanner and moved to Quitman in 1957 and had two children, Jack "Chip" Tanner, Jr. and Joseph Tanner that preceded her in death. Pat was a fixture of downtown Quitman working at Tanner’s Pharmacy and having her own antiques shop, The Keeping Room, which she operated for many years. The Methodist Church in Quitman was a big part of her life. She spent her last few years out at Fellowship Home at Brookside where she had a wonderful experience surrounded by many new found and close friends.
Survivors include her son, Chip Tanner of Quitman; granddaughter, Victoria Tanner; brother, Jeff (Cheryl) of Plymouth, Ohio; niece, Andrea (Nick) Evans and their children, Zoey, Isak, Evan and Finnley. Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Tanner, Sr; son, Joseph Tanner; parents, Clyde and Tommie Massey; sister, Judy Williams and her husband, Grady Williams.
A brief memorial service will be held on Sunday February 22, 2026 at 2:00 PM in the Willow Wood Dining Room at Fellowship Home at Brookside.

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