Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors and Cremation Services

Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Local Funeral Home and Cremation Service Provider

Locally owned and operated, with over 60 years of experience and a proven history of compassion, serving families in the most sincere time of need.

Hephzibah, GA – James Franklin Stewart, 85, loving husband to Wanda Martin Stewart entered into rest on Sunday, March 29...
04/04/2026

Hephzibah, GA – James Franklin Stewart, 85, loving husband to Wanda Martin Stewart entered into rest on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
Mr. Stewart, son of the late Grady A. Sewart and the late Nancy Laura Sellers Stewart, was born Waynesboro, GA. He retired as a truck driver for E-Z Go.
In addition to his parents Mr. Stewart is preceded in death by his sisters, Louise Wall, Vonceil Pricket, Carrie Amerson, Liza Mae Smith, Elizabeth Huff, Ruth Andrews, Lois Howland; brothers, Alton Stewart, Grady Stewart Jr.; special sister, Lois Howland.
Mr. Stewart is survived by his wife, Wanda Stewart; his son, Tony Stewart; his daughter, Mary Stewart; granddaughter Cheyann Stweart; special friend, Max Murphy; his fishing buddy/ niece, Michelle Baker and a host of nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to, https://cmn.org/
Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors, 2502 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, GA, 30906.
www.chanceandhydrick.com

Christina Lynne White, age 74, passed away on Friday, March 20, 2026. She was born on April 21, 1951, in Cairo, Illinois...
04/02/2026

Christina Lynne White, age 74, passed away on Friday, March 20, 2026. She was born on April 21, 1951, in Cairo, Illinois, and spent her childhood in Charleston, Missouri.
She later made her home in San Antonio, Texas, where she spent the majority of her adult life. It was there that she met and married John T. White, and together they built a life together over many years. She worked as a second grade teacher at Randolph Elementary School, where she not only shaped the lives of her students but also formed lifelong friendships with fellow teachers who became like family. She was part of a close-knit group of women who shared years of bunco, brunches, trips, and a lifetime of love and laughter.
She was known for her beautiful, infectious smile and her generous and giving nature. She had a way of making everyone feel like they were the most important person in the room and found joy in bringing people together, creating spaces where people felt comfortable, welcomed, and cared for.
Her laugh was one of a kind. It could fill a room, and she had a playful, silly side that brought light to any moment. When she was playing games, winning or losing, she always had a goofy face to match. Even in stressful moments, she had a way of making others smile and easing the tension. She would greet people with a cheerful, singsong “good morning!” or “hello!” when answering the phone, a small but memorable reflection of the warmth she carried into everyday moments.
She loved everyone’s children as if they were her own. Whether it was writing letters of encouragement, showing up in support, or simply being present, she made people feel like they belonged.
She gave quietly and selflessly, never seeking recognition or the spotlight, and never expecting anything in return. She was forgiving, kind, gracious, and loving, a true example of what love looks like.
She was also incredibly strong and resilient, able to carry more than most while still showing up with love and grace for the people around her.
Christmas was her favorite time of year, and she made sure everyone around her felt that same joy and magic. The living room would be filled with presents, more than you could imagine, and she always had extra gifts set aside. She kept a dresser full of cards for every moment in life, always ready to celebrate, comfort, or remind someone they were loved.
Her chicken and dumplings were a Butler family staple, always made with love and something everyone looked forward to. Cooking was one of the many ways she expressed care for the people around her.
She had a gift for making people feel like they belonged, embracing both family and those who became family to her.
That love extended deeply to her nieces and nephews, especially those she spent years close to. Shanna Stringer and her husband, Marty, were a meaningful part of her everyday life for many years, sharing dinners, games, and celebrations together. Shanna’s children, Kya and Kaden, were deeply loved by her, and she treasured the time she spent with them.
In late 2025 she and John moved to Martinez, Georgia to a house just down the street from her grandchildren. To them, she will always be remembered in the little moments that meant so much. Kiko thinks of her smile. CJ remembers baking cookies with her at Christmas. And they both remember the many times she took them to the park. Haysel remembers her love most of all, and said she never once questioned how much she was loved by her Nanny. She created memories that will stay with her grandchildren forever.
To her family, she was the one they called. She was always there to share in every moment, whether joyful or difficult, offering love, support, and presence without hesitation.
She was deeply loved, and her absence will be felt in ways that words cannot fully express.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Mea Lou Carr Butler and J.B. Butler; her son, Jimmy White; her brothers, Jimmy Butler and Dennis Butler; and her niece, Dana Brown Partaker.
She is survived by her husband, John T. White; her daughters, Ashley St. Clair (Cat) and Daiquiri Fennell (Don); her grandchildren, Heather, Joshua, Johnathan, Haysel, CJ, and Kiko; her great-grandchildren, Brianna, Jammie, Landon, Raven and Emma; her siblings, Cathy Brown, Scotty Butler (Kathleen), Kevin Butler (Donna), Kelly Butler (Angelia), Shannon Butler, and sister-in-law, Pat Butler; Teresa Biasi; and many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.
A party to celebrate her life will be held at a later date this summer.
Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors, 2502 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, GA, 30906.
www.chanceandhydrick.com

Augusta, GA (formerly of Heidelberg, PA)– Melanie Lizabeth Smith, 53, entered into rest on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at he...
04/01/2026

Augusta, GA (formerly of Heidelberg, PA)– Melanie Lizabeth Smith, 53, entered into rest on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at her residence.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date in both Georgia and Pennsylvania. Details will be announced and coordinated by her daughter, Adeline Smith, and her son, Ethan Smith.
Mrs. Smith, beloved daughter of the late Stanley Lacek Sr. and the late Mary Ann (Pruss) Lacek, was born in Heidelberg, PA. She had a passion for traveling, enjoyed playing bingo, and found her greatest joy in supporting and sharing in the interests and passions of her children.
Mrs. Smith is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Bradley L. Smith, her children, Ethan S. Smith, Adeline R. Smith; her siblings, Stanley L. Lacek Jr. (Tammi), Heather Polenik (Michael), Mary Ellen Wall (Brad); her cherished dog, Cooper. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, dear friends, her “adopted kids”, and her softball family, all of whom she loved deeply.
In lieu of flowers, donations/ flowers may be sent directly to Adeline Smith, Ethan Smith at this time.
Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors, 2502 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, GA, 30906.
www.chanceandhydrick.com

Elizabeth Laverne (Turner) JacksonAugusta, GA – It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Elizabeth Laverne...
03/28/2026

Elizabeth Laverne (Turner) Jackson

Augusta, GA – It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Elizabeth Laverne (Turner) Jackson, 64, who was born April 7, 1961, and who passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at her residence.
Funeral services will be held from the New Horizon Church of God on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 1:00 P.M., with the Reverend Steve Pittman officiating. There will be a visitation from 12:30 until the time of the service at the church.
Mrs. Jackson was born in Augusta, to David and Virginia Cribbs Turner, who proceeded her in death. She was married to Glen Wayne Jackson for 42 years until his death in November of 2021. She had worked at Tim's Burger Shake, Hardee’s for thirteen years and the Uptown VA Hospital as a Switchboard Operator until she resigned. She enjoyed going to church, listening to Gospel music and was a born again and saved Christian. She was overjoyed to see her granddaughter graduate high school a year early as an Honor Graduate and will be the first in her family to pursue a medical degree as a Radiologist.
She is survived by her children, Mary Griffin, Mirium Mason (Josh), and Ursula Majors; seven grandchildren, Brandon McCook, Bryan McCook, Jason Majors, Ravyn Bartley, Caleb Majors, Kian Majors and James Hobbs; three brothers, Paul (SC), Michael (AL) and Scott (Cindy) (AL) Turner.
If desired, the family suggests that donations can be made to the New Horizon Church of God, 3119 Old Louisville Rd., Augusta, GA, 30906, or to Augusta University, or to the Children’s Hospital @ Wellstar Hospital.
Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors, 2502 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, GA, 30906.
www.chanceandhydrick.com

Augusta, GA – Marcia Irene Martin, born September 15, 1949, loving wife of David Martin, joined her Heavenly Father, Mar...
03/26/2026

Augusta, GA – Marcia Irene Martin, born September 15, 1949, loving wife of David Martin, joined her Heavenly Father, March 22, 2026, surrounded by her family.
Memorial services will be held by her home church, Crestview Baptist Church, 2632 Mike Padgett Hwy, Augusta, GA 30906 on Friday, March 27, 2026, at 1 o’clock in the afternoon with Pastor Kevin Jones officiating.
Marcia was born in Sikeston, MO, growing up in (Place, where she met David Martin, who became her husband of 56 years. The couple raised two sons, navigating Army life in Germany and throughout the States. Eventually, they settled outside of Fort Gordon, in Hephzibah, Ga. Here, she made a life of caring for children and serving in the church. She remained a devoted pastor’s wife, giving her wisdom to the women around her. Her greatest role was that of grandmother, her love steadfast and overflowing. Her joy poured out in the jingles she sang, the letters she wrote and always mailed. The colorings she made for all, just because. The prayers she lifted for everyone in her life.
She is preceded in death by her parents Ronald & Thelma Compton, her siblings James, Glenda & Wesley.
Marcia is survived by her husband, David F. Martin; sons Rodney A. Martin (Natasha), Ronald F. Martin; granddaughters Haley M. Lucius (Jacob), Cheyenne M. Kersey (Brian); great grandchildren Waylon, Dillon, Avery, Emma, Kessler; brother Leslie Young.
Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors, 2502 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, GA, 30906. www.chanceandhydrick.com

Grovetown, GA – Rabon Holton, 100, entered into rest on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at his residence.Funeral services will ...
03/26/2026

Grovetown, GA – Rabon Holton, 100, entered into rest on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at his residence.
Funeral services will be held from Greater Augusta Apostolic Church, 4406 Wrightsboro Rd Grovetown, GA 30813, on Saturday, March 28, 2026, with Elder Dwayne Hooven officiating.
Family will receive friends on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the church, from 1 o’clock until 2 PM, the hour of the service.

Mr. Holton, son of the late Cargile Holton and the late Nettie Mae Rowland Holton, was born August 8, 1925, in Soperton, GA. He was a World War II Marine veteran. He retired as a nurse attendant from the VA Hospital. He attended Augusta Old Line Primitive Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his loving wife Barbara McMahon Holton and his son, Ronnie Holton; his siblings, DC Holton, Tom Holton, Clifton Holton, Draphus Holton, and Sarah Kate Rowland.

Mr. Holton is survived by his son, Mike Holton (Cheryl); his grandchildren Matt Holton, Lauryn Holton, Abbie Holton, Bethany Holton, Dylan Holton, Cheyenne Holton; seven great grandchildren; his daughter-in-law Brenda Holton, and several nieces and nephews.

Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors, 2502 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, GA, 30906.
www.chanceandhydrick.com

Augusta, GA – Allen Douglas “Cash” Carroll, 62, passed away peacefully at his residence on Sunday, March 22, 2026. Memor...
03/26/2026

Augusta, GA – Allen Douglas “Cash” Carroll, 62, passed away peacefully at his residence on Sunday, March 22, 2026.
Memorial services will be held at Hepzibah Baptist Church, 2527 Georgia 88, Hephzibah, GA 30815, on Monday, April 6, 2026, at 2 o’clock with Reverend Bill Carroll officiating.
Family will receive friends on Monday, April 6, 2026, from 1 o’clock until the hour of the service at the church.
Mr. Carroll, son of the late William Jesse Carroll Sr. and the late Marion Ruth Turnage Carroll was born and raised in Hephzibah, Georgia. He was an amazing father and grandfather, a steady presence whose love ran deep and true. He was known as a loyal friend to everyone he met. Allen never knew a stranger and had a way of making people feel right at home. He would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need, always putting others before himself. A true Jack of all trades, there was nothing he couldn’t fix or figure out, and he took pride in helping those around him.
Mr. Carroll is proceeded in death by his loving parents, along with his sisters, Donna Harison, Peggy Carroll, his niece Beverly Johnson.
Left to carry on his memory are his daughters, Amber Carroll (Gatlin), Madison Carroll (Gage) both of Metter, GA, Alexis Jankowski (Brandon) of Glen Burnie, MD, Mckenzie Carroll of Commerce, GA; his son, Jesse Carroll of Commerce, GA; his grandchildren, Mason Brown, Makayla Brown, Kinsleigh Slater, Kolsen Slater all of Metter, GA, Adalyn Jankowski of Glen Burnie, MD; brother, William “Billy” Carroll (Martha) of Hephzibah, GA; sisters, Sissi Dozier (Charles) of Hepzibah, GA, Lucille Carroll Page of Swainsboro, GA; special nephew, Bo Johnson (Karen); special niece, Missy Kitchens, along with abundance of nieces and nephews.

Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors, 2502 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, GA, 30906.
www.chanceandhydrick.com

Augusta, GA – Lois, 95, loving wife to the late Merlyn Collins entered into rest on Saturday, March 21, 2026. Memorial s...
03/24/2026

Augusta, GA – Lois, 95, loving wife to the late Merlyn Collins entered into rest on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
Memorial services will be held from the chapel of Chance and Hydrick Funeral Directors on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 3 o’clock with Pastor Terry Taylor officiating.
Family will receive friends on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, from 2 o’clock until the hour of the service at Chance & Hydrick funeral home.
Mrs. Collins, daughter of the late Lester Benway and the late Olive Terry Benway, was born in Augusta, WI.
In addition to her parents and husband she is preceded in death by her son Michael John Rye.
Mrs. Collins is survived by her children, Judy Crumpler, Christine Stewart, Jody Collins, Scott Collins (Betty); her grandchildren, Brandie Stewart, Joshua Wall, Ann Leman, Ashley Collins; her great-great grandchildren, Brienna Holt, Christopher Stewart, Michael Stewart, Autumn Leman, Carmen Jean Collins; her great-great-great grandchild, Ina Holt; her brother Stanley Benway.
Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors, 2502 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, GA, 30906.
www.chanceandhydrick.com

Evans, GA - On Thursday, March 19, 2026, God welcomed our sweet baby boy, Lucas “Luke” Rowe, into heaven. Though we long...
03/24/2026

Evans, GA - On Thursday, March 19, 2026, God welcomed our sweet baby boy, Lucas “Luke” Rowe, into heaven. Though we longed to hold him in our arms, we find comfort knowing he is held in the arms of the Lord.
Graveside services will be held from Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church Cemetery, 3965 Deans Bridge Rd, Hephzibah, GA 30815, Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 1 o’clock with The Reverend David Stockton officiating.
Lucas is deeply loved by his parents, Ashlynn and Hunter Rowe; his brother, Drake Rowe; his twin sisters, Ellie and Emma Rowe; his great maternal grandparents, Shelli and Garry Stephens; his paternal grandparents, Ben and Tina Benson; his paternal great grandmother, Marcia Turner; his aunt and uncle Les and Brandy Stephens, Morgan and Robert Robertson; his cousins, Beau Robertson, Riley Robertson, and Sophie Stephens.
Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors, 2502 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, GA, 30906.
www.chanceandhydrick.com

November 24, 1949 – March 15, 2026Phillip Eugene Ragan, 76, of Augusta, GA, passed away peacefully at his home on March ...
03/17/2026

November 24, 1949 – March 15, 2026
Phillip Eugene Ragan, 76, of Augusta, GA, passed away peacefully at his home on March 15, 2026. Born in Eastman, GA, he was the son of the late Wilbur Othelle Ragan and Mary Francis Ragan.
Phillip was a devoted husband to Nancey Patricia Ragan, with whom he shared 38 wonderful years of marriage. He was a loving father to Kim Marie Ragan and Gloria Jean Stuart (William Sidney Stuart, Jr.), proud grandfather of William Phillip Stuart (Tess Newton Stuart), and cherished great-grandfather of William Patrick Stuart.
He is also survived by his siblings Billie June Stephens, James Patrick Ragan, Donald Jerry Ragan, and Brenda Hodges as well as sister-in-law Christine Shinault (Neal Shinault). He was preceded in death by his siblings Matte Sue Edwards and Mark Ragan.
Phillip proudly served in the United States Army for 30 years, retiring as a Command Sergeant Major (CSM), the highest enlisted rank. He loved God and his country. Family was always first in his mind and heart. After his military career, he enjoyed a peaceful life of maintaining his yard and pool, gardening, and spending time with his beloved dogs.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Chance and Hydrick Funeral Home in Augusta, GA.
Phillip Eugene Ragan will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose love, integrity, and dedication touched all who knew him.
Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors, 2502 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, GA, 30906.
www.chanceandhydrick.com

Augusta, GA – Warren William “Bill” Reed, 81, loving husband of the late Karola Husemann Reed, entered into rest on Frid...
03/17/2026

Augusta, GA – Warren William “Bill” Reed, 81, loving husband of the late Karola Husemann Reed, entered into rest on Friday, March 6, 2026, at his residence.

Family will gather with friends at Chance and Hydrick Funeral home on the date of March 14, 2026, at 10 AM.
The graveside service will follow at 11 AM located at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 2700 Deans Bridge Rd, Augusta, GA 30906.

Mr. Reed, son of the late Alfred Warren Reed and the late Daisey Lightell Reed, was born in Cora, MI. Warren (Bill) Reed retired from the Army with the rank of SGT. First Class. He fought in the Vietnam War and was in the infantry for 7 years and 8 months. During His military career he also worked as a Unit Supply Specialist and an Electrical Instrument Repair Technician. His awards are listed as: Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Meritorious Medal.

After retiring from the Army, he gained employment with the Augusta Housing Authority where he worked for many years until he retired as Foreman of the Maintenance department. During this time, he obtained his HVAC Contractors License. He was a member of VFW Post 649 and the American Legion. He was known as a hardworking provider who loved and cared deeply for his family.

In addition to his wife and parents he is preceded in death by his nephew, Larry Kirkey.

Mr. Reed is survived by his two daughters, Michelle Greenway (Thomas), Roma Fryberger (Thomas); grandchildren, Amanda Bright (Greg), Ashley Doyle (Dustin), Josh Greenway Lindsey), Felicia Fryberger, Danielle Church (Michael), Jacob Fryberger (Phetsamone); great grandchildren, Greyson Bright, Madelyn Bright, Judson Bright, Everly Doyle, Mason Doyle, Noah Kesterson, Audrey “Rosie” Peek; sister, Margaret Kirkey; nieces, Connie Sutherland, Carol Miller.

Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors, 2502 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, GA, 30906.
www.chanceandhydrick.com

The Reverend Lou Scales“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7. O...
03/13/2026

The Reverend Lou Scales

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7. On March 12, 2026, Louie G. Scales, Jr. went home to be with his Lord. He was born on July 25, 1947, in Alexandria, Alabama.
The memorial service to honor Lou’s life and ministry will be March 21st at 3pm, at Our Savior Episcopal Church, 4227 Columbia Rd, Martinez, GA. Reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to your church or the Jesse Norman School of the Arts, 739 Greene St, Augusta, GA 30901.
Lou is pre-deceased by his parents, Lou and Carolyn Scales, and daughters, Shay and Leah. His memory will live on with his beloved wife, Linda, his son, Jon Scales (Meg Mathis), daughter Jennifer (David) Quebedeaux, and daughter Gelene (Dan) Tabor, grandchildren: Daniel Tabor (Jennifer McGibbon), Sharon Tabor, Timothy (Liz) Tabor, Ryan (Deborah) Tabor, Meaghan (Dan) Ruff, and Rex Cooper-Bryan (Kaily Short), and 21 great-grandchildren.
Lou began his ministry in a small Methodist church, and in 1976 he joined the Army as a chaplain. He considered the military chaplaincy a chance to reach young adults. “When they get into the Army, they run into real life, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to be part of their faith development,” he said.
Lou converted from the Methodist denomination to the Episcopal church in 1992. In the Army, his assignments included three tours in Germany, as well as the National Training Center in Ft. Irwin, CA and the Pentagon. He believed in ministering to soldiers where they worked and served and said, “I established relationships I still have with people.”
His education includes a BA from Birmingham-Southern College, a Master of Divinity from Emory University, a Certificate in Clinical Pastoral Education from Central State Hospital in Milledgeville, GA, a Master in Education from Boston University, and a Master in Theology from Princeton Seminary.
After retirement from the Army, Lou served as the Assistant Rector at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Augusta, GA and Rector at Our Savior Episcopal Church in Martinez, GA.
He and his beloved wife, Linda, served together in the many churches and communities he touched. They also shared a love of travel, exploring the world from Morocco to East Berlin and hundreds of points in-between. He was an avid golfer, a loyal fan of Alabama football and Braves baseball.
Chance and Hydrick Funeral Directors, 2502 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, GA 30906
www.chanceandhydrick.com

Address

2502 Richmond Hill Rd
Augusta, GA
30906

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm
Saturday 8am - 5pm
Sunday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+17067908567

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Our Story

Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors has been locally owned and operated by Reuben Chance and Phil Hydrick since it was established in 2004. Together they bring 50 plus years of professional experience to the company. We have maintained the tradition of exceeding the expectations of the families we serve. We are honored to be allowed membership in the prestigious funeral organizations NFDA (National Funeral Directors Association), the IFDG (Independent Funeral Directors of Georgia), the GFDA (Georgia Funeral Directors Association), and the CANA (Cremation Association of North America.)

The death of a loved one is emotionally devastating and financially difficult. We are compassionate, accommodating, understanding, and welcoming. We are here to serve you with the respect you and your loved one deserve. We strive to lessen the stress, anxiety, and grief that families feel during times of loss. Families can depend on us to plan personal, lasting memorials for their loved ones and our professional staff commits to guide every family through the many hard decisions that must be made during the challenging and emotional time of losing their loved one.

Our funeral chapel is the largest in Augusta, with a seating capacity of 450. We also know it is the little things that our families hold dear, whether through a personal video, a photo collage, or the integration of personal items into the funeral service, we work with families to make each service unique and meaningful.