http://www.nesmithfuneralhome.com/

Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home, 513 W. Main Street, Claxton, GA (2026)

03/01/2026

Joyce Jenkins Eason

CLAXTON: Mrs. Joyce Jenkins Eason, age 90, passed away at Ogeechee Area Hospice in Statesboro, Georgia on February 28, 2026. Mrs. Joyce was a native of Tattnall County, living all of her adult life in Evans County. At the time of her death, she was the oldest living member of Eason Chapel Church. Mrs. Joyce was a homemaker while her daughters were young. She then worked in retail at The Squire Shop, The Village Square, & Just Jane’s in Claxton until her retirement.

Mrs. Eason was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Henry; her parents, Mr. & Mrs. J.W. Jenkins; two brothers, Curtis & Warnell Jenkins; six sisters, Louise Holland, Beatress Collins, Mildred Boyette, Thurla Boyette, Winnie Boyette, & her twin sister and best friend, Joy Eason; and son-in-law, David Tootle

SURVIVORS: her two daughters and son-in-law; Trish Tootle of Statesboro and Julie and Gil Mincey of Claxton; Grandchildren: Matt and Talette Tootle, Clint and Catherine Tootle, Natalie Mincey, and Angela and Ty Swindell; Great-Grandchildren: Athan Tootle, Marley Tootle, Tyson Swindell, and Addison Swindell; and a host of other family members who were dear to her heart. Mrs. Eason is also survived by her special friend and caregiver, Lucy Walden. Mrs. Eason spent the last year of her life residing at Southern Manor at Candler in Metter, Georgia.

The family would like to extend their sincerest appreciation to Ralph Cowart, Blake Nobles, and their staff for the exceptional care they provided for Mrs. Eason.

VISITATION: Monday, March 2, 2026, 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home.

FUNERAL: Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Charles Fiveash and Ralph Cowart officiating.

BURIAL: Eason Family Cemetery.

PALLBEARERS: Matt Tootle, Clint Tootle, Keith Bradley, Ellis Conley, Bo Eason, and Freddy Ruarks.

HONORARY PALLBEARERS: the staff and residents of Southern Manor at Candler and members of her Sunday School Class at Eason Chapel.

REMEMBRANCES: Eason Chapel Church at 5356 Rufus Sapp, Claxton, GA 30417 or Ogeechee Area Hospice at P.O. Box 531, Statesboro, GA 30459.

Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

“Our Family Serving Your Family”

Since 1917

(912) 739-3338

www.nesmithfuneralhome.com

View Joyce Jenkins Eason's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/27/2026

Yvette Cowart

CLAXTON: Dorothea Yvette Cowart Few knew her first name was Dorothea. She was named after her paternal grandmother, Dorothea “Dot” Sapp Cowart originally from Bulloch County, wife of B.T. Cowart, Jr. of the Undine community, and most everybody just called her Vette. her maternal grandparents were Wallace and Thurla Jenkins Boyette of Tattnall County. Vette was the daughter of Benny and Yvonne Cowart, and she is survived by her longtime companion and best friend, Jeanna Shuman Daniel, as well as her loving brother, Barry and his husband, Jimmie, and she was exceptionally close to her many Eason and Anderson relatives. Yvette attended Pinewood Christian Academy and Claxton High School. She graduated from Claxton High in 1989 with honors and later attended Ogeechee Tech where she received her nursing license. Yvette had a real estate license from Ben Farmer Realty in Savannah, but she never pursued that avenue any further. Yvette worked as an LPN for Dr. David Scarboro in Claxton for some time, but ultimately landed in the ER at Evans Memorial for a number of years. Working nights and the ER for years resulted in burnout which led her to start her own business in lawn care. Yvette loved this period of her life as well, as she was able to unwind and destress while building numerous, lifelong friendships with clients. Now years of operating lawn equipment had taken a toll and she made a decision to return to school for a degree in radiology. Upon graduating, she took an X-ray technician position at Optim Health in Reidsville. To know Yvette was to love her, and she was loved by so many. How fortunate we were to have her. She was remarkable in her loyalty to her friendships and relationships. She was exceedingly bright, and she studied and worked diligently at everything she did. Yvette was blessed to have rare gifts of such deep loyalty and genuine caring, with empathy and a true love, and to be so freely giving of these gifts. This were exemplified through her chosen career of nursing where her knowledge and personality merged into this tremendous gift of giving and understanding that made her a naturally talented nurse and caregiver. Yvette loved animals, worked as a veterinary tech through much of her schooling, and she had a special love for Boxer Bulldogs. She loved her family and she loved her friends. She was pure of heart and Yvette would literally give the shirt off her back to anyone who needed it. She enjoyed nothing more than spending quality time with her family and friends. She loved good music, good company, good food and good people. There was not a malicious bone in her body and there was no dishonesty in her. If she told you something, you could count on it and count on her. Yvette began to suffer with some cognitive issues. Symptoms were very vague and difficult to pinpoint early on in the progression, but ultimately, she was diagnosed with early onset dementia/Alzheimers in the early 2020’s and this would ultimately be her undoing. So incredibly unfair and undeserving. As her brother, I cannot tell you how much I miss her already.

We are going to celebrate Yvette's life on Sunday, March 1, 2026, from 2pm until 4pm at Tattnall Campground, 3769 Campground Road, Claxton, Georgia, 30417. Yvette would often decompress, parked at the campground, listening to her favorite gospel songs and singing along with anyone who would join her in her own little world. We’re going to share in her tradition one last time. You’re welcome to come join us.

Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

“Our Family Serving Your Family”

Since 1917

(912) 739-3338

www.nesmithfuneralhome.com

View Dorothea Yvette Cowart's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/24/2026

William "Ed" Edward Mosley

BELLVILLE: William "Ed" Edward Mosley, a beloved member of his community, passed away on February 23, 2026, at the age of 81. He was born on January 1, 1945, in Claxton, Georgia, where he would go on to make significant contributions to both his family and community.

Ed dedicated 37 years of his life to serving at Fort Stewart, embodying the values of commitment and service that he learned during his time in the United States Army. His military service instilled in him a sense of duty that extended beyond his official responsibilities and flourished in his passion for coaching and officiating sports.

As an umpire and coach for over three decades, Ed was a cherished figure in local athletics, particularly at Claxton High School, which he loved dearly. His commitment to youth sports was matched only by his dedication to the Evans County School Board, where he actively contributed to the development of student in the community.

Throughout his life, Ed was honored with numerous awards recognizing his contributions. He was also a devoted member of Bellville Methodist Church and the Bellville Lions Club, where he not only found fulfillment but also fostered deep and lasting connections with his peers.

He was predeceased by his parents, W.C. Mosley and Orelia Grimes; his first wife, Carol Mosley; brother, James Mosley; and sister, Wanda Anderson.

Ed will be remembered not only for his many achievements but also for the love and pride he had for his family and community. He touched the lives of many and leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, and compassion that will resonate for years to come.

SURVIVORS: his devoted wife, Betty Mosley; sons, Eddie (Pam) Mosley and Randy (Michelle) Mosley; daughters, Laura (Ronnie) Sapp and Melanie Mosley Nettles; sister, Ruby Jo (David) Dillard; and step-children, Judy (Charles) Parkerson, Glenn (Pricilla) Moseley, and Joy Mariani. Ed took great pride in his family, which includes grandchildren John (Meghan) Hamner, Zachary Mosley, Sarah Mosley, Michelle Mosley, Jackson Mosley, Hayley (Nathan) Waters, Casey (Brad) Mosley, David Nettles, Jr., Lauren (Danny) Diaz, Dillon Nettles, Caroline Mosley, Destiny Ray, and Hollee Moore, along with eleven great-grandchildren, nine step-grandchildren, and five step great-grandchildren.

VISITATION: Wednesday, February 25, 2026, 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home.

FUNERAL: Thursday, February 26, 2026, 11:00 A.M. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Chapel.

BURIAL: Brewton Cemetery

REMEMBRANCE: Bellville Lions Club, P.O. Box 32, Bellville, Ga., 30414, or Brewton Cemetery, P.O. Box 978, Claxton, Ga., 30417

View William "Ed" Edward Mosley's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/24/2026

Harold Kicklighter

CLAXTON: William “Harold” Kicklighter, 94, passed away February 23, 2026.

He was a member of St. Christopher Catholic Church, and worked at Gram Factory and also owned several vending machines.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar Miller and Sallye Hendley Kicklighter; and wife, Arlette Pearce Kicklighter.

SURVIVORS: sister, Judy Ann Kicklighter Croft of Claxton, Ga; stepson, Jerome Van Epps of Madison, Wisconsin; and several nieces and nephews.

VISITATION: Wednesday, February 25, 2026, form 10:00a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home.

FUNERAL: Wednesday, February 25, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home chapel.

BURIAL: Georgia Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, Glennville, Ga.

REMEMBRANCES: St. Christopher Catholic Church, 400 S. River Street, Claxton, Ga. 30417

Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

“Our Family Serving Your Family”

Since 1917

(912) 739-3338

www.nesmithfuneralhome.com

View Harold Kicklighter's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/09/2026

Dennis Loyd Gulledge, Sr.

ELLABELL: Dennis Loyd Gulledge, Sr., a beloved member of the Ellabell community, passed away on February 5, 2026, at the age of 69. Born on August 27, 1956, in Savannah, Georgia, to Loyd Hollingsworth Gulledge and Allie Mae Griffin Gulledge.

As a skilled trim carpenter, Dennis was known for his craftsmanship and attention to detail. His work was not just a job but a passion that he carried throughout his life. Beyond his professional life, Dennis had a vibrant personality that drew people in. He thoroughly enjoyed connecting with others, often through his CB Radio, where he was affectionately known as "DB." His love of rock'n'roll music was a testament to the joy he found in life, and it remained an integral part of his identity.

Dennis was a proud member of the Ellabell Community for over forty-three years, where he made countless friends and memories. His warm spirit and ability to engage in meaningful conversations left a lasting impact on those around him.

SURVIVORS: sons, Dennis (Ashley) Gulledge, Jr. and Chris (Erin) Gulledge; his daughter, Nora Crites; and his 11 grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Daryl (Pam) Gulledge; his sister, Diana (Earl) Hodges; and several nieces and nephews.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Loyd and Allie Mae Gulledge.

VISITATION: Wednesday, February 11, 2026, starting at 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home.

FUNERAL: Wednesday, February 11, 2026, starting at 10: 30 a.m. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home Chapel.

BURIAL: Brewton Cemetery.

REMEMBRANCES: Brewton Cemetery, P.O. Box 978, Claxton, Ga. 30417

Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

“Our Family Serving Your Family”

Since 1917

(912) 739-3338

www.nesmithfuneralhome.com

View Dennis Lloyd Gulledge, Sr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/06/2026

George Crawford McKenzie

CLAXTON: George Crawford McKenzie, Jr., 79, died after a short illness on January 31, 2026, at Orchard Health and Rehabilitation. He was born on November 6, 1946, in Montgomery Alabama, to the late Mr. George Crawford McKenzie, Sr. and Mrs. Marjorie Turner McKenzie all from Montgomery, Alabama.

George retired from Gulfstream Aerospace after serving twenty-two years as an engineering manual writer for aerodynamics. He was a member of Evergreen Babtist Church and served as a deacon for many years.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Claytonia McKenzie; sister Mary Fowler and daughter Christy McKenzie all of Montgomery, Alabama.

SURVIVING: his wife of sixteen years, Linda Hutcheson McKenzie; stepdaughter, Kay Blocker both of Claxton, Georgia; one son, Lee McKenzie (Jennie) of Prattville, Alabama; five grandchildren, Bailey Mckenzie, Ella Mckenzie, Jason Collins, Taylor Jenkins and Hannah Driggers all of Prattville, Alabama; many nieces and nephews. George had one of the greatest friends of all his life and thought and treated him like his very own son, Mr. Cyrus Purdiman of Claxton, Georgia.

VISITATION: Friday, February 6, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home.

MEMORIAL SERVICE: Friday, February 6, 2026, 2:00 p.m. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home with Pastor Durrell Harn Officiating.

REMEMBRANCE: Those who wish to remember George in a special way, may make gifts in his memory to Dementia & Alzheimer’s Research Foundation of America, 322 Eighth Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001.

Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

“Our Family Serving Your Family”

Since 1917

(912) 739-3338

www.nesmithfuneralhome.com

View George Crawford McKenzie's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/03/2026

Luther Wilburn Royal

CLAXTON: Luther Wilburn Royal, Jr., 78, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2026. Born in Thomasville, he made his home in Claxton as a young man and is remembered for his generous spirit and servant’s heart. Luther was born on March 30, 1947, to Luther and Susie Royal.

Luther served the city of Claxton for sixteen years as a councilman, followed by eleven years as Mayor. He founded Royal Refrigeration in 1977 and remained active with the company until the day he passed away. He was a proud member of the local motorcycle club. Through the years, he visited numerous states with the club, most recently the Greenville, Tennessee area. He was a long-time member of the Claxton Rotary Club. He was a member of Rehoboth Missionary Baptist Church, holding several positions of service through the years.

In addition to his parents, Luther is proceeded in death by his sister, Monteal Butler, as well as the mother of Trey and Lance, LaVerne Smith Bandy.

SURVIVORS: wife of thirty-nine years, Faye McDonald Royal; three sons, Trey (LeAnn) Royal, Lance Royal and Drew (Kamarie) Miles; eight grandchildren, Alexandria, Gabriella, Isabella, Lane, Archie, Kole, Hudson and Charolette. Other survivors include his sister, Debbie (Pat) Crawford; and brother-in-law, Johnny Mack Butler.

VISITATION: February 5, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Rehoboth Missionary Baptist Church.

FUNERAL: February 5, 2026, 2:00 p.m. at Rehoboth Missionary Baptist Church.

BURIAL: Brewton Cemetery.

Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

“Our Family Serving Your Family”

Since 1917

(912) 739-3338

www.nesmithfuneralhome.com

View Luther Wilburn Royal's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/21/2026

Dorothy Driggers

Dorothy L. Driggers, age 76, was born on January 29, 1949, and went home to be with the Lord on January 20, 2026. She lived a life marked by love, faith, and quiet strength. Known affectionately throughout the community as “Aunt Dot, Dot Dot, and even Mama,” she was a cherished presence to generations of children and families. For more than thirty years, she and her mother opened their home and their hearts, caring for countless children and creating a place of safety, comfort, and belonging. Though she never had biological children of her own, she raised many, loving each one as her own and leaving an indelible mark on their lives.

Dot attended Claxton High School, graduating in 1967. She was employed at Doris Beauty Salon at the time of a car accident at the age of nineteen that left her paralyzed—an event that forever altered her physical life but never diminished her spirit. Despite enduring lifelong health challenges, she met each day with extraordinary grace, resilience, and unwavering positivity. You never heard her complain; instead, she chose to encourage others and focus on the good around her.

She was deeply kind and compassionate, expressing her love through warm hugs, special meals or treats, thoughtful gestures, and never forgetting a birthday or holiday. Humble and considerate in all things, she consistently put others before herself. Affectionate by nature, she often ended conversations with her familiar words, “I love you more,” leaving everyone she encountered feeling valued and deeply loved.

A devoted member of Bull Creek Baptist Church, Dot’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. Above all else, she was a woman of deep and abiding faith. She trusted fully in Jesus Christ as her Savior and Lord, and that trust shaped how she lived, loved, and served others. Her hope was anchored not in this world, but in the promise of eternal life through him. She spoke often of the Lord’s goodness and credited Him for a life she considered richly blessed. She believed true abundance was found in love, faith, and service to others, and she lived that belief daily.

Dot was preceded in death by her parents, Betty and Brownie Driggers; her nephew, Jeremi Bath; and her brother-in-law, Gerry Bath. She is survived by her brother, Edward (Renae) Driggers of Hephzibah; her sister, Marilyn Bath of Claxton; several nieces and nephews; many children that she helped raise; and a host of special friends who were deeply impacted by her love and encouragement.

To those who knew her, she was a constant source of encouragement, comfort, and joy—a woman whose life was quietly powerful and generously given. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she nurtured, guided, and loved as her own.

Visitation: Friday, January 23, 2026, 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home.

Funeral: Friday, January 23, 2026,11:00 a.m. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home Chapel.

Interment will follow at Bull Creek Church Cemetery.

View Dorothy Driggers's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/21/2026

Hilda Norris Sapp

CLAXTON: Hilda Norris Sapp, 72, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away on January 21, 2026. Born on August 23, 1953, raised in Lamar, South Carolina, Hilda was known for her vivacious spirit and dedicated work ethic throughout her life.

Hilda had a rewarding career as a Property Manager at Weaver Management, but she also held cherished memories of her time with GE Appliances, from which she retired after many years of service. Beyond her professional endeavors, she enjoyed the adventure of riding alongside her husband, Gary Sapp, as they transported auction cars, a shared passion that brought them closer together.

In her leisure time, Hilda found joy in fishing, often spending tranquil hours by the water, enjoying the beauty of nature. Her love for the outdoors reflected her appreciation for life's simple pleasures and provided her with happiness that she generously shared with others.

Hilda is survived by her devoted husband of 30 years, Gary Sapp, and their loving family. She is the proud mother of William Craig Griggs and stepmother to Chris (Carrol) Sapp, Brent Sapp, Matthew (Michelle) Sapp, and Reid Sapp. Her heart swelled with love for her daughter, Crystal (Billy) Lukowski Floyd. Hilda's nurturing spirit extended to her grandchildren, including Sydney Lukowski, Taylor Griggs, Wyatt, English, Eli Sapp, Joshua, Jeremy, Jarret, and Jesse Floyd, as well as her great-grandson, Ryder Sapp.

Hilda will be deeply missed by her siblings: brothers Harold (Pearl) Norris, Ronnie (Judy) Norris, and Bobby Norris; half-brothers Charlie Norris Jr. and Robbie (Kristen) Norris; sister Patsy (Eric) Rolfe and Diane (Sam) Altman; and half-sister Debbie Atkinson. She also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and many cousins who will remember her warmth and kindness.

Hilda was preceded in death by her parents, Charles Norris and Frances Nichols Parnell, and her granddaughter, Catherine Gail Lukowski.

As her family and friends come together to celebrate her life, they remember a woman who brought joy and love to all who knew her. Hilda's legacy will live on in the hearts of her loved ones.

VISITATION: Friday, January 23, 2026, 1:00 P.M. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home

FUNERAL: Friday, January 23, 2026, 2:00 P.M. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home Chapel.

BURIAL: Lamar Cemetery, Lamar, South Carolina

Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

“Our Family Serving Your Family”

Since 1917

(912) 739-3338

www.nesmithfuneralhome.com

View Hilda Norris Sapp's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/19/2026

Lloyd Matthew "Matt" Rogers

STATESBORO: Lloyd Matthew Rogers, known affectionately to all as Matt, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026, at Memorial Medical Center, surrounded by the family and friends he loved so dearly. He was 60 years old.

A Life of Service

Matt’s life was defined by a profound commitment to others. After growing up in Claxton, he honorably served six years in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. His passion for helping people in their most vulnerable moments led him to a distinguished career in healthcare. He has lived in Bulloch County for the last 13 years. Matt served his community as an EMT, a Paramedic, and a Registered Flight Nurse, eventually finding his true calling in the sky. For the last 12 years of his career, Matt served as a Flight Nurse with his beloved Air Evac Lifeteam. He was a man who gave his life to his profession, touching countless lives with his skill, his calm under pressure, and his unwavering compassion.

A Heart for People

Beyond his professional achievements, Matt was the ultimate "people person." He had a rare gift for making everyone he met feel like the most important person in the room. Whether he was on a golf course or casting a line while fishing, Matt was happiest when surrounded by his friends. Those close to him knew him as a man who consistently put the needs of others above his own—a dedicated father, a loyal best friend, and a steady hand for anyone in need.

Family and Legacy

Matt’s greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 36 years, Renee Rogers; his children, Matthew Rogers (Maureen), Andrew Rogers (Chris), and Gabby Rogers; and his parents, Melanie and Ken Tyler. He also leaves behind his brothers, Wesley Rogers (Amy) and Shawn Rogers (Helen); his nieces, Brittney, Emily, and Maddie; and his loyal companions, Gia, Lulu, and Nala, along with his "grandpups" Tucker, Jameson, and Angus. His devoted in laws were Larry and Donna Tuten, children Melissa Dix (Joel), Ben Tuten (Mari), and Laura Fry, with niece and nephews Ethan, Aiden, Mateo, AJ, Chase, Jordan, Hannah Ruth, Isabella. He also leaves behind his little neighborhood best friend, AK (Awesome Kat), Katherine Sharpe.

Matt will be remembered as a man of immense character whose legacy lives on in the lives he saved and the hearts he warmed. He was the best friend anyone could ask for, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who had the honor of knowing him.

MEMORIAL SERVICE: Thursday, January 22, 2026, 3:00 P.M. at Connection Church Statesboro, 1342 Cawana Road, Statesboro, Ga., 30461

HONORARY PALLBEARERS: Air EVAC Lifeteam members, Medical Flight Crews, First Responders and Nurses.

REMEMBRANCES: Fostering Bulloch(7th Mile Farms) check can mail to: 2505 Watering Hole Court Statesboro 30458 or these options at this link https://www.fosteringfamiliesga.com/donate

Connection Church Missions at connection.church/missions. Go to the option “Mission Trip Scholarships.” Ads a message …In memory of Matt Rogers

Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

“Our Family Serving Your Family”

Since 1917

(912) 739-3338

www.nesmithfuneralhome.com

View Lloyd Matthew "Matt" Rogers's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/16/2026

Kevin Lloyd Strickland

CLAXTON: Kevin Lloyd Strickland, 52, a cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on January 13, 2026, at the age of 52 in Savannah, Georgia.

Kevin found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life, particularly his love for the outdoors. He often spent his time hunting and fishing, immersing himself in nature and sharing stories that could light up any room. His passion for the outdoors was only rivaled by his passion for people. He had a gift for making others feel seen and valued, creating lasting friendships along the way.

He is survived by his father, Bobby Strickland; brother, Shannon (Megan) Strickland; nieces and nephews, Charlie, Emily, Betsy, and Mac Strickland. Additionally, several loving aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Kevin was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Faye Strickland.

As we gather to honor the life of Kevin Lloyd Strickland, we are reminded of the gift of his presence and the lasting impact he made on our lives. He will be sorely missed by all who loved him.

VISITATION: January 17, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at the Union Church.

FUNERAL: January 17, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at the Union Church.

BURIAL: Union Church Cemetery.

REMEMBRANCES: Union Church, P.O. Box 893 Claxton, Ga. 30417

Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

“Our Family Serving Your Family”

Since 1917

(912) 739-3338

www.nesmithfuneralhome.com

View Kevin Lloyd Strickland's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/12/2026

Gary Boone

DAISY: Gary Lee Boone, 80, passed away quietly in his sleep after a long illness, his wife, Mary, by his side.

He was born and raised in Savannah, Georgia to Harold Boone and Mary Nell Brown Boone. He graduated from Groves High School in 1964.

He joined the Air Force 117th Tactical Control Squadron, October 16, 1965, to October 15, 1971.

Gary was known for his love of boats, the water, hunting and fishing. He would restore old boats then resell them- a hobby he enjoyed.

He deeply loved his wife, Mary and they had twenty-five wonderful years together, moving to a small farm in Daisy after he retired in 2012.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Mary Boone; brother, Perry Boone; sister, Cindy and son, Garrett Boone.

SURVIVORS: wife, Mary Ella Boone; daughter, Stephanie (Keith) Bride; stepson, George Henry III; daughter, Kristina (Chris) Wade; sister, Judy (Chuck) Blakley; brothers, Larry and Kevin Boone. Grandchildren, Arianna, Keith Jr. and Ava Bride; nieces, April (Chris) Barr, Holly (Charles) Beaver, Melanie Boone, Rachel Smith, Brianna Willett and Adrianna Gonzalaz; nephews, Larry Boone Jr., Kevin Boone Jr. and Christopher Boone; grand-nieces, Blakley, Savannah and Julie Beaver; grand-nephews, David and Jonah Barr and Charles Beaver III.

A celebration of Life will be held at a determined date.

REMEMBRANCES: in leu of flowers, the family request all monetary donations go to Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home. P.O. Box 1056, Claxton, Ga. 30417

Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

“Our Family Serving Your Family”

Since 1917

(912) 739-3338

www.nesmithfuneralhome.com

View Gary Boone's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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