Purvis Funeral Home and Maxwell - Purvis Funeral Home, 207 E. Mitchell Street, Adel, GA (2025)

12/24/2025

James Clay Ensley, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2025, at the age of 83 at his home in Sparks. Born on October 31, 1942, in the quaint town of Barneyville, James grew to be a man of immense love, and courage.
James's life was marked by his dedication to his country after being drafted in the United States Army from 1967 to 1969. His service was a testament to his courage and patriotism. After his military tenure, James channeled his skills into a successful career as a master electrician and plumber, working with Lindsey Plumbing & Electric Company. His hard work and expertise led him to become the owner of the business in 1989, a role he embraced with pride until his well-deserved retirement. James also served as the Mayor and City Council Member of Sparks.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, James was a pillar in the Sparks community as a devoted member of the Sparks Community Church, formerly known as Sparks United Methodist Church. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he cherished the fellowship and sense of purpose it provided. James's hobbies included fishing and deer hunting, pursuits that allowed him to appreciate the great outdoors and the simple pleasures of life.
However, it was his role as a family man that truly defined him. James was a loving father to his son, Clay (Anna) Ensley of Kingsland, GA, and a doting grandfather to Brandi Ensley (Lee) Cain, and John Dalton Ensley. His joy multiplied with the arrival of his great-grandchildren, Bella, Bailey, and Zeke, who will remember him for his warmth and the wisdom he imparted.
James's legacy is carried on by his brother, Benny (Cindy) Ensley of Sparks, and his sister, Linda Morrell of Sparks, who will miss his presence dearly. He also leaves behind a special friend, Ella Conley of Sparks. James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan Ensley, his brother and sister-in-law, Dillard & Willette Ensley, and his brother-in-law, Don Morrell.
Those who knew James will remember him as the embodiment of love and courage. His hands, always ready to fix a broken appliance or reel in a stubborn fish, were equally skilled at providing comfort and support to those he loved. James's impact on his family, friends, and community was profound, and his memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 27, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Purvis Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens. The family will be receiving friends Friday evening from 6-8 p.m. at Purvis Funeral Home.

12/24/2025

John Raymond Stalvey went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, December 22, 2025. He was born at home in Cook County, GA on April 4, 1935, to the late John Harris Stalvey and Pearl Futch Stalvey. A man of deep faith, steady character, and a servant’s heart, John lived a life that reflected his love for God, his family, and his community.
As a member of First Baptist Church of Quitman, John was a faithful leader and servant, having served in numerous leadership roles through the years. His Christian faith was not just something he believed—it was something he lived every day through kindness, humility, and a willingness to help others.
John believed strongly in serving his community and gave freely of his time through many civic organizations, including the Kiwanis Club, the Quitman-Brooks County Chamber of Commerce and the Brooks County Educational Foundation.
John graduated with honors from Cook County High School in 1953 and continued his education at Norman College, Valdosta State College, and the University of Georgia Banking School. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and later devoted 47 years of faithful service to Citizens National Bank of Quitman.
Above all else, John loved his family. He was the devoted husband of Patsy Stalvey for 61 years and a loving father to Stephanie Oliveto (Aaron), Michael Stalvey (Leigh), and Patrick Stalvey (Melissa). He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Griffin, Tillman, Paxton, and Hagan, who brought him great joy. He enjoyed going on family vacations, particularly to the mountains, where he found peace and solitude.
John was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers-in-laws, Carroll Craven and Wayne Wincey. He is survived by his wife; Patsy Stalvey of Quitman, GA; daughter, Stephanie (Aaron) Oliveto of Tallahassee, FL.; sons, Michael (Leigh) Stalvey of Cotton, GA, and Patrick (Melissa) Stalvey of Quitman, GA.; grandchildren, Griffin, Tillman, Paxton and Hagan; two sisters, Joann Wincey of McDonough, GA and Judy Craven of Nashville, GA.; sister-in-law, Judy (Laurie) Storey of Quitman, GA and brother-in-law Wayne (Nancy) Hagan of Spring Hill, TN.
John will be remembered for his gentle spirit, steady presence, and quiet strength. He always believed in being fair and doing things the right way. While he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing he has heard the words he lived by: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Funeral services will be held Friday, December 26, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Quitman, GA. Visitation will begin at 1:30 pm in the sanctuary. Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to First Baptist Church Quitman, GA.

12/01/2025

Johnny Allen Webb, known affectionately as Allen to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2025, at the South Georgia Medical Center in Valdosta. Born on June 29, 1955, in Adel to the late Wiley Richmond Webb and Reba Miley Webb.

Allen's early years were spent in Adel, where he grew up surrounded by the love and camaraderie of his family. He was a beacon of light in the lives of those who knew him, always ready with a kind word and a helping hand. After bravely serving his country in the United States Marines, Allen's unwavering faith led him to become a Church of God Minister in Montana, where he touched many lives with his spirited sermons and compassionate outreach.

Upon returning to his roots in Adel, Allen continued to serve his community as a life insurance agent. His work was more than a profession; it was a way for him to ensure the well-being of others, showcasing his caring nature and dedication to the service of his fellow man.

Allen's love for the outdoors was unparalleled. He found solace in the beauty of nature, whether he was camping under the stars or waiting patiently in the woods during hunting season. An avid hunter and a fervent GA Bulldog fan, Allen's enthusiasm for his interests was contagious, often bringing together friends and family to share in his passions.

Allen's legacy is carried on by his loving daughter and son-in-law, Melissa Webb Wilson and Chris Wilson of Nashville, GA, who will forever cherish the memories and lessons he imparted. His four sisters and brothers-in-law, Barbara (Tommie) Evans of Nashville, GA; Mary (Herman) Hinkle of Texas; Pam (Wayne) Etheredge, and Lisa (Jody) Futch of Tifton, GA, will remember him as a pillar of strength and love. His sisters-in-law, Bonnie Webb and Paula Webb Cross, also survive him, holding dear the times they shared.

Allen was preceded in death by his daughter, Miranda Webb, whose memory he held close to his heart. He now joins his three brothers, Richard Webb, James Earl Webb, and Phil Webb, as well as his sisters and brothers-in-law, Dorothy (JT) Manus and Grace (Charlie) Burt. His brothers-in-law, Leon Johnson and Larry Burgress, also preceded him in death.

Those who knew Allen will fondly recall a man of exceptional character—faith-filled, spirited, and intelligent. His presence was a gift to all, and his influence will continue to be felt long after his passing. Allen Webb's life was one of service, love, and joy, and his memory will be treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Funeral services will be held Friday, December 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Purvis Funeral Home with Pastor David Smith officiating. Interment will follow at Fellowship Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will be receiving friends one hour prior to the service.

11/27/2025

Ernest "Ernie" Coleman Cain, age 86, of Thomasville, GA, entered into the presence of the Lord on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. He was born on September 12, 1939, in Ochlocknee, GA, the son of Coleman and Mable Sinclair Cain.

Ernie was a member of Okapilco Baptist Church, where he previously served as an Adult Sunday School Teacher, Music Director and Choir member. Ernie retired as a Maintenance Supervisor with International Paper Company in Auburndale, FL after thirty-five years of service. He loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman.

Ernest Cain is survived by his wife, Lucy Cain; daughter, Sheryl Cain Icard (Gregory) of Quitman, GA; son Rod Cain (Youness) of Burlington,VT, Shamane Taylor (Billy) of

Thomasville and Berry Hall (Teresa) of Quitman; Patsy Smith (Kevin) and Nancy Hiers (Mike Jordan); grandchildren, Dustin Icard (Nicole), Greg Icard (Ginny) and Jamie Icard (Marie), Brantley Taylor and Reagan Bell, Justin McCann (Sara), Adam McCann, Ronni Smith (Jordan), Galen Smith (Lauren), Savannah Hiers-Sorrentino (Thomas), Andrew Hiers (Emily), Allison Hiers and Jacob Hiers (Mary Catherine); siblings, Dewey Cain (Barbara) of Lakeland, FL, and Mike Cain (Joyce) of Winter Haven, FL.; great grandchildren, Cade, Karli, Josh, Tyler, Jacob, Shannon Icard, Parker Icard, Emerson Walker, Dominic McCann, Jordi Smith, Brooks, Anna Kate and Ruby Smith, Charlie, Lyla, Mary Margaret and Emma Rae Hiers, and three great-great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Okapilco Baptist Church with Rev. Greg Icard officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. The family will be receiving friends one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Okapilco Baptist Cemetery Fund, 1565 Okapilco Church Road, Quitman, GA, 31643 or Archbold Hospice, 400 Albany Road, Thomasville, GA, 31792. The family extends their gratitude to Dovie and Billy Ross for their compassionate care and support.

While Ernest Cain will be deeply missed on this side of Heaven, we rejoice in the blessed assurance that he is now home with the Lord, where there is no more sorrow, no more pain, and everlasting joy in the presence of Jesus.

11/26/2025

Mary Ruth Mixon, age 86, of Adel, Georgia ran into the arms of her loving Savior and joined her husband of 61 years, Carl Wayne Mixon, on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. Mary Ruth was born on January 3, 1939 to Boyd and Gladys Reed in Adel, Georgia. Mary’s greatest legacy comes from who she was as a follower of Jesus and as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, Nana and friend.

Her children and grandchildren will always remember precious memories of her “Nana Specials,” irreplaceable wisdom, gentle spirit, love for life and demonstration of resilient, selfless love. Her great grandchildren rejoice at her renewed mind and body while also missing her cheering them on at the ball field, coloring pictures together, playing board games, and telling her favorite stories. Her golden years were full of laughter and joy as she helped encourage and raise three generations.

Mary Ruth is survived by her three children, Gregory (Robin, deceased) Mixon, Cindy (Frank) Hagan, and Leslie (Jeffrey) Lovingood. She leaves behind nine grandchildren, Sara (Derek), Allison (Chris), Elizabeth, Emily (Travis), Rachel (Andrew), Maggie (Hunter), Marina, Lydia (Mark) and Leah (Scotti). She also leaves behind 15 great grandchildren. She is survived by two brothers, John Reed and William Reed, and two sisters, Barbara Hughes and Karen Blankenship.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 3:00 p.m at Purvis Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery Annex. The family will be receiving friends one hour prior to the service.

11/20/2025

Marianne Harrell Lane, 83, went to her heavenly home on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. Born March 15, 1942, in Quitman, Georgia, she was the first-born daughter of Jack Edwin Harrell, Sr., and Mary Grant Harrell. She grew up in Brooks County and attended school in Quitman and at Georgia Christian School in Lowndes County.
Marianne was a longtime member of First Baptist Church Quitman and cherished her church family deeply. She worked at Quitman Manufacturing, where she made many lasting friendships. Known for her sweet spirit—with a touch of feistiness now and then—she was loved by nearly everyone she met. Marianne was famous for always arriving three hours early to everything.
Her greatest joys later in life were making and giving friendship bracelets to friends and strangers alike, and shopping with her caregiver, Sharita, where the two would truly “shop till they dropped.”
She is survived by her siblings, Jack E. Harrell, Jr., Freddie (Shelia) Harrell, Betty Ruth (Jay) Morgan, Libby (Byron) Guess, Wiley Harrell, Nhut (Janice) Luong, all of Quitman, and Kim Thanh (Hoa) Bao of Danang, Vietnam; she also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and dear friends, Sonya Davis and Sharita McQuay. She was preceded in death by her parents; her niece, Amy Hurst; and her sister-in-law, Suong Luong.
Funeral services will be held Sunday, November 23, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church Quitman with Rev. Steve Sheirling officiating. The family will be receiving friends beginning at 1:30 p.m. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.

11/20/2025

Lois Little Gilmer passed away peacefully in her sleep at Sodalis Assisted Living in Tallahassee, FL. on November 15, 2025 at the age of 102. Lois was born in Thomas County on January 23, 1923 to the late Jake & Mindy Glover Little and was the last surviving of eight children.
Lois was a member of Ozell United Methodist Church in Boston and was very involved in her church activities. She loved to go once a month with her friends to lunch and celebrate anyone's birthday for that month. Lois was a social butterfly that was outgoing, loving and had a lot of friends. She also enjoyed working crossword puzzles and she and Ray loved to bowl with their friends and family.
Lois married Ray Gilmer in 1938 and spent her life on the Gilmer farm in the Ozell Community in Brooks County prior to moving into the home of her daughter, Lynn and her husband, Paul Renaud for two years before moving into assisted living for the final year of her life.
Survivors include her children, Greg Gilmer of Ozell, GA, Janice (Sonny) Phillips of Tallahassee, Lynn (Paul) Renaud of Tallahassee, and Sherry (Wayne) Vaughan of Monticello; grandchildren, Robin (Merg) Fuller, Valli Cason, Josh Phillips, Cody (Kari) Phillips, and Brice (Makayla) Gilmer; seven great grandchildren, Walker Phillips, Cason Fuller, Wyatt Phillips, Bryson Gilmer, Brantley Gilmer, Callen Phillips, and Jacob Shepard; and several nieces & nephews. Lois was preceded in death by her husband, Ray Gilmer; and 7 siblings.
Funeral services will be held Friday, November 21, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at Ozell United Methodist Church with Rev. Eugene Barlow and Rev. Sally Flowers officiating. Interment will follow at Evergreen Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will be receiving friends one hour prior to the service at Ozell United Methodist Church.
Flowers are welcome or donations may be made to Ozell United Methodist Church, c/o Sally Flowers, 507 Sunnymeade Dr., Valdosta, GA 31605 or to the Big Bend Hospice, 1723 Mahan Center Blvd. Tallahassee, FL 32308.
The family would life to give a special thanks to Big Bend Hospice and Sodalis Assisted Living for their care of Mrs. Gilmer in her final days.

11/20/2025

Patrick Everett Bruce, 66, of Quitman, GA, passed away on November 18, 2025. Born July 1, 1959, he was the son of James Albert Bruce and Eva Nell Bruce. A lifelong resident of Brooks County, Patrick grew up in Dixie, GA, and devoted his life to farming, family, and faith.

Patrick was a cotton, peanut, and soybean farmer whose work ethic and deep connection to the land shaped every chapter of his life. He was a long-time member of Dixie Baptist Church before joining Thomasville First Baptist Church, where he had been a member for the past ten years and faithfully participated in his Sunday School class. He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, attending farm equipment auctions, and—most of all—spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Joni Simpson Bruce of Quitman; two sons, Patrick Ryan (Sam) Bruce of Boston, GA and William Ross (Sam) Bruce of Asheville, NC; and three grandchildren, David, Nathan, and Katie Ann. He is also survived by his mother, Eva Nell Bruce of Dixie; three siblings, James Michael (Michelle) Bruce of Quitman, Lisa Bruce (Jack) Courson of Dixie, and Robert Martin Bruce of Tifton, GA; as well as many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, James Albert Bruce, and his son, Jeremy Everett Bruce.

Visitation will be held Friday, November 21, from 10 – 11 a.m. at Dixie Baptist Church, 57 Snow Ave, Dixie, GA 31629. Memorial services will follow at 11 a.m. at the church.
At the family’s request, there will be no meal or gathering following the service.

11/11/2025

oann Hamner, 79 of Sparks passed away at her home surrounded by her family on November 10, 2025. Joann was born June 27, 1946 in Newell, AL to the late Leander & Minnie McCormick and lived in Cook County most of her life. She attended Beulah Holiness Baptist Church and graduated from Cook High School. Joann attended Valdosta Tech and ABAC and graduated with a nursing degree. Joann worked for 55 years as an Register Nurse. She owned and operated Sparks Retirement Home for 26 years with her family. She enjoyed giving her time and resources to others.

Survivors include her husband of 61 years, Charles Hamner; two children, Phillip Hamner and Pamela Hamner both of Sparks; several nieces, nephews, & cousins from AL.; her longtime friends, Laura Clements and Hilda Bennett; and special caretaker, Linda Goff. Joann was preceded in death by her brother, E. J. McCormick & sister, Betty Prestridge.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at Purvis Funeral Home at 3:00 p.m. with her loyal friend, Rev. Jonathan Walker officiating. Interment will follow at Antioch Church Cemetery with Rev. Jimmie Hinson officiating. The family will be receiving friends one hour prior to the service.

11/07/2025

Nancy Lou Goff 83 of Lenox, Ga went on to be with her Savior November 5, 2025. Nancy was born to Daniel and Ruby Terry of Lenox, Ga on October 11, 1942 in Adel, Ga.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, husband Charles W Goff, three sisters, Kathryn, Mildred and Rebecca and four brothers, Talmadge, Roy, James and Billy.

She is survived by her children Louise and Jimmy Wicware of Nashville, Ga., Daniel Dean of Nashville, Ga., Bobby and Natalie Dean of Midland, Ga., Stanley Dean of Omega, Ga., Lonnie and Linda Dean of Nashville, Ga. and grandson/son, James and Delilah Goff of Nashville, Ga.

Nancy was loved by her community, church and nursing home. She was a god-fearing lady who loved her children, grandchildren, James, Mickey, Brittany, Melissa, Michael, Brandon, Darren, Hope, Derrick and 17 great grandchildren alike. She loved all the time and gave as much as she could. She made the best red velvet cake in the south. Nancy was also known for making beautiful flower arrangements for weddings, and she loved working in her flower beds in her yard and making crafts.

Graveside services will be at Enigma Cemetery on Sunday November 9, 2025 at 1:00 p m. with Pastor David Baker officiating. The family will be receiving friends Saturday afternoon from 1- 2 p.m. at Purvis Funeral Home. All are welcome to attend the services.

11/07/2025

Martha Frazier, a cherished soul known for her loving and generous spirit, passed away peacefully on November 6, 2025, at Tift Regional Medical Center. Born on January 30, 1937, Martha's life was a beautiful tapestry of devotion to her family, her faith, and her community.

Survived by her adoring husband of 59 years, Charles H. Frazier of Adel, Martha's legacy of love continues through her sons, Lamar (Debi) Ellis of Adel, Clyde Ellis of Albany, and Chuck (Lora Lee) Frazier of Ponte Vedra, FL. Her warmth and wisdom will forever be cherished by her several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. Martha's siblings, brother James (Pat) Martin of Brunswick, and sisters Joyce (Lowell) Hiers of Lenox, and Brenda (Steve) Bond of Gray, GA, will hold dear the memories of their sister's thoughtful nature. Her life was also enriched by the company of several nieces and nephews. Martha was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd Lester Martin and Gladys Strickland Martin, and her sister and brother-in-law, Mary and Deotis York.

Martha's professional journey as a cosmetologist was marked by passion and dedication. She found joy in bringing out the beauty in others, and her career was a reflection of her own inner beauty. Upon retiring, she embraced the role of homemaker with the same zeal, creating a warm and welcoming home for all who entered.

A long-time member of the First Baptist Church Adel, Martha's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She lived her life as a testament to her love for the Lord, her husband, her children, and her extended family. Martha's nurturing spirit extended beyond her family, as she became a mother figure to her children's friends, offering guidance and care to all.

Martha's talents were many, and her interests varied. She was known for her exceptional culinary skills and her green thumb, a trait she inherited from her mother. Her home and garden were a reflection of her love for beauty and nature. An active individual, Martha never shied away from adventure. She found joy in painting, riding motorcycles, and engaging in both square and ballroom dancing. Her adventurous spirit also led her to hiking, camping, and scuba diving, embracing the wonders of the world around her.

Those who knew Martha will remember her as a woman who lived her life with a generous heart and a thoughtful mind. She had a gift for making everyone around her feel loved and valued. Her presence was a comfort, her laughter a joy, and her guidance a steady hand in the lives of many.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, November 9, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church Adel with Dr. Mike Ruffin, and Pastor Daniel Findley officiating. Interment will follow at First Baptist Church Cemetery in Ty Ty. The family will be receiving friends Saturday evening from 5-7 p.m. at Purvis Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to First Baptist Church Adel or the Charlie Parrish College Scholarship Fund, 200 E. 5th St., Adel, GA 31620.

11/06/2025

Debbie Daugherty, 60 of Valdosta passed away Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at her home. She was born July 24, 1965 to the late Joseph & Betty Joyce Gilly Daugherty. Debbie worked with Southern Harvest as a insurance agent before retiring. She loved kayaking, but most of all she loved spending time with her grandchildren, sister, and brother.
Survivors include her sons, Tim (Stevie) Daugherty of Valdosta, Terrell (Ashley) Daughtrey of Valdosta, and Robert (Kasey) Daughtrey of Valdosta; grandchildren, Hayden, Teagan, Ellie, Soren, Lourena, Dlythe; brother, Mark Daughtrey of AL, and one sister, Nina (Richard) Wade of AL.
As we say goodbye to Debbie Daugherty, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and grace. Her impact on our lives is immeasurable, and her spirit will continue to guide and inspire us. Though she has left this earthly realm, her love and the lessons she taught us will remain in our hearts forever.

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