McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory

McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory is family owned and operated, where we offer many different services to fit the needs of families.

Debra SimmonsDebra Jean Simmons, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on December 22, 2025, in Col...
12/23/2025

Debra Simmons

Debra Jean Simmons, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on December 22, 2025, in Columbus, Georgia, at the age of 69. Born on January 21, 1956, in Opelika, Alabama, she brought joy and warmth to all who knew her.

Debra was a dedicated businesswoman, having owned a successful cleaning service that showcased her commitment to hard work and excellence. She was also a former member of Trinity Temple and a current member of Evangel Church, where she found community and shared her faith with others. Her strong ties to her church family reflected her compassionate spirit and her love for those around her.

A passionate shopper, Debra cherished the moments spent with her family and grandchildren, creating lasting memories filled with love and laughter. Her life was marked by her devotion to those she loved, and she brought joy into every gathering.

Debra is survived by her loving husband, John Ronald Simmons; her children, Christopher Newman, Julia Davis, Brandon Davis, and Margaret Faye Mitchell (Donovan); her brother, Billy Hall, Jr.; and her treasured grandchildren, Destiney, Mikel, Austin, Ashtyn, Addisyn, Nathyn, and Ryland.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Billy Hall, Sr. and Willie Mae Peters, as well as her sisters, Rhonda Stringfellow and Donna Golden.

Family and friends are invited to honor Debra's life during the visitation on December 29, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM, both taking place at McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory located at 3874 Gentian Blvd., Columbus, GA 31907.

Debra Jean Simmons leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know her.

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Mark Stuckert
12/23/2025

Mark Stuckert

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Melissa Miller
12/23/2025

Melissa Miller

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Dr. William Donald Campbell, Jr. William Donald Campbell, Jr. was born on December 13, 1953, and walked through the gate...
12/22/2025

Dr. William Donald Campbell, Jr.

William Donald Campbell, Jr. was born on December 13, 1953, and walked through the gates of Heaven on December 20, 2025.Don was preceded in death by his parents, William D. Campbell, Sr. and Dolly Wootten Campbell, and by his sister and brother-in-law, Diane and Sam Farace.He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Dr. Kay Ellis Campbell; his children, Alison Jordan (Brad) and Caroline Campbell; and his beloved grandsons, Campbell Jordan, Harrison Jordan, and Walter Jordan. He is also survived by five sisters: Janet Harmon (Ken), Susan Campbell, Robin Magers, Cheryl Iler (Jim) and Kim Birnbaum, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. A native of Baltimore, Maryland, Don completed his undergraduate education at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Biology. He continued his education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he received a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and earned certification as a Surgeon’s Assistant. He worked assisting open-heart surgery at Lankenau Hospital outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. While at Lankenau, he observed the work of oral surgeons and realized that was the career he wanted to pursue.Don returned to UAB, earning his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from the UAB School of Dentistry. His outstanding performance in dental school earned him the Outstanding Achievement Award for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and secured him a postdoctoral residency in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan. At the suggestion of a dental school classmate, Don opened Campbell Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Columbus, Georgia, in 1991, where he practiced for 34 years, always maintaining the highest and most up-to-date standards of care and providing exceptional, compassionate treatment to his patients.Don was a member of Church of the Highlands and belonged to numerous organizations, including the Rotary Club, Chattahoochee Valley Beekeeping Association, Order of the Tartan, and several prestigious boards in Oral Surgery and related fields.Don loved the outdoors—hunting, working on his farm, and beekeeping. He also loved his dogs and enjoyed tennis, football, basketball, ice hockey, and snowboarding. He was blessed to love his work and to have good friends, wonderful neighbors, and a devoted family.

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Charles Edward FoskeyCharles Edward Foskey, a cherished brother, father, and uncle, passed away on December 19, 2025, at...
12/19/2025

Charles Edward Foskey

Charles Edward Foskey, a cherished brother, father, and uncle, passed away on December 19, 2025, at Saint Francis Hospital. Born on November 22, 1948, in Columbus, Georgia, Charles dedicated much of his life to the service of others and the pursuit of his passions.

A graveside service will be held 11:00AM, Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at Parkhill Cemetery with Jerald Slaughter officiating according to McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, 3874 Gentian Blvd. Columbus, GA 31907.

A proud Corporal in the United States Marine Corps, Charles served during the Vietnam War, where he displayed extraordinary bravery. He earned two Purple Hearts and the Silver Star Medal for his courageous actions in saving the lives of several wounded Marines. Known for his humility, he never considered himself a hero, yet his deeds spoke volumes about his character. Charles exemplified selflessness and courage, repeatedly maneuvering across fire-swept terrain to ensure the safety of his companions.

In addition to his military service, Charles had a wide array of interests that enriched his life. He found joy in fishing and working with horses, pursuits that brought him closer to nature. His artistic side flourished as he painted and sketched landscapes and old homes, capturing the beauty he found in the world around him.

Charles leaves behind a loving family who will remember him fondly. He is survived by his sisters Brenda Adkins, Peggy Slaughter and her husband Jerald, and Terri Westveer and her husband Edward. He also leaves his beloved nephews and nieces: Derek Bruner, Michael Lee Bruner, Michael Slaughter, Joy Garfield, Tori Garfield, Vince Garfield, Nikki Johnson, Carl Johnson, Marina Egner, John Egner, Sherry Hale, Kimberly Foskey, Chuck Foskey, and Rodney Foskey.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Willie Mae Foskey, along with his brother Larry Foskey and his two sons, Charles D. Foskey and James Foskey. And Darrell Wayne Adkins(brother-in-law)

Charles’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of calling him family and friend.

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Ricky TurnerRicky Turner, 65, of Columbus, GA passed away peacefully and surrounded by family and loved ones, after putt...
12/19/2025

Ricky Turner

Ricky Turner, 65, of Columbus, GA passed away peacefully and surrounded by family and loved ones, after putting up a courageous fight against cancer on Thursday, December 18, 2025. He wave good bye and said don't you cry I'll see you again someday.

Funeral services will be announced at a later date according to McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, 3874 Gentian Blvd., Columbus, GA 31907.

Born May 7, 1960, Ricky is survived by his sisters; Connie Gerard Grady, Sherry Turner, and Deborah Ann VanBuren, brothers; Edward Turner and Terry Turner, step-brother Jefferson VanBuren, Jr., nephew Clayton Feagins and niece Brittany (Brandon) Gullate.

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Roberta MatthessRoberta Matthess died on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at her home in Columbus.Funeral services will be h...
12/19/2025

Roberta Matthess

Roberta Matthess died on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at her home in Columbus.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Monday, January 5, 2026 in the chapel of McMullen Funeral home and Crematory, 3874 Gentian Blvd. Columbus, GA 31907. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will follow the service at Parkhill Cemetery, 4161 Macon Rd. Columbus, GA 31907.

Roberta was born April 16, 1929, to Charles Roy Thurman and Gertrude Scott Thurman in Leadwood, Missouri. She was a 1947 graduate of Leadwood High school. After moving to ST. Louis, she met and married SFC Charles “Chuck” Matthess, already a Bronze Star veteran from Korea, on December 7, 1954. She embraced being an Army wife, and made a home for chuck and their growing family, first in St. Louis, then in Ansbach, Germany during the Cold War; two children were born there, and after being posted to Ft. Benning, GA they made Columbus their permanent home, as Chuck served one tour in Vietnam, where he received a second Bronze Star as a combat medic, and then a tour with the family at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. Chuck retired in Columbus, where the last three siblings were born. He passed away on March 14, 2002.

She was predeceased by her siblings Norma Ruth Thurman Morris and Joyce Thurman Morris, as well as by her brother, Glendal Thurman, who was killed on active service in the Philippines in 1945.

Roberta is survived by Denise Matthess Hill of Decatur, AL, Brian Matthess, Charles Robin “Red” Matthess, (most excellent dog Max), Mark Allen “Red” Matthess, Michael Glen Matthess (Myrna), and grandchildren Nicholas Matthess, Bailey Matthess, and Kane Matthess, all of Columbus.

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Myron PalmerMyron Palmer, born on November 10, 1942, in Columbus, Georgia, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2025. ...
12/17/2025

Myron Palmer

Myron Palmer, born on November 10, 1942, in Columbus, Georgia, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2025. A devoted family member and respected professional, Myron dedicated 34 years of her life as a secretary at Richards Middle School. Known for her unwavering commitment to her career, she found great fulfillment in her work and cherished the friendships she cultivated with many of her colleagues.

A graduate of Jordan Vocational High School, class of 1960, she embraced the values of hard work and dedication instilled in her during her youth. As a proud secretary, Myron contributed significantly to the school community, and her legacy of diligence and professionalism will be long remembered by those who had the pleasure of working alongside her.

Family meant everything to Myron, and she took immense pride in her loved ones, particularly her grandchildren. She is survived by her son Chris Palmer, her daughter, Kelli Marlowe, and son-in-law, Morgan Marlowe; her grandsons, Palmer Marlowe and Lucas Marlowe; and her granddaughters, Emma Marlowe, Jordan Palmer, and Ashley Palmer. Myron also leaves behind her beloved sisters, Linda Cook and Carolyn Swetnam, along with her brother, Ronnie Rutherford, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Myron was preceded in death by her parents, James and Lucile Rutherford, and her brothers, Greg and Ricky Rutherford.

Her family would like to thank the staff at Ridgecrest Rehab and Skilled Nursing Center for their love and care for Myron over the last 18 months.

The community is invited to pay their respects at the visitation and memorial service to be held at McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, located at 3874 Gentian Blvd., Columbus, GA 31907. The visitation will commence on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 AM.

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Martha Gammell
12/16/2025

Martha Gammell

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Jewel "Dean" Carter Jewel "Dean" Carter, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025, in Columbus, GA, at the age of 79....
12/15/2025

Jewel "Dean" Carter

Jewel "Dean" Carter, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025, in Columbus, GA, at the age of 79. Born on March 7, 1946, in Macon, GA, Dean was a warm-hearted and devoted homemaker who cherished her family deeply. Graveside services will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 11am EST at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery.

Dean celebrated a loving marriage that lasted over 47 wonderful years to her husband. She was known for her kind and generous spirit, extending warmth and compassion to everyone she encountered. Her home was a reflection of her love—a welcoming space filled with laughter, kindness, and countless treasured memories.

In her later years, Dean took solace in her passion for observing birdlife from her indoor camera, adapting her interests to enjoy the wonders of nature despite her limitations. Dean's greatest joy came from her family, particularly her special bond with her grandson, Jerry, which was a profound and cherished relationship that brought light to her life.

She is survived by her devoted husband Mackey E. Carter Sr., son, Mackey E. Carter Jr., and her daughter, Pam Brownlee, along with her husband Wes. Dean also leaves behind five grandchildren: Marnie Brownlee, Leigh Anne Freeman, Joshua Brownlee, Eric Brownlee, Jerry Brownlee. Her legacy continues through her eight great-grandchildren: Brinkley Hussey, Alex Freeman, Bella Freeman, Abi Brownlee, Oli Brownlee, Sofia Brownlee, Atticus Hearn and Rissa Conley as well as four great-great-grandchildren: Alice Rackley, Clara Hussey, Layla Whatley, and Eliot Whatley.

Dean is lovingly remembered by her siblings, including Billie Jo Owens of Barnsville, Patricia Blalock of Warner Robins, William Ogle Jr. (Pam) of Columbus, Brenda Wolfe (Jeff) of Warner Robins, Michael Ogle (Ruthie) of Warner Robins, Bonnie Abbey (Don) of Pennsylvania, Wes Brownlee (Pam) of Seale, Sandy Nichols of Seale, and Kelley Ogle of Seale. She also leaves behind ten nieces and nephews who carry her memory forward.

Dean was preceded in death by her mother, Jewel Causey, and her father, William Ogle Sr. She will be missed dearly by all who knew and loved her, and her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.

In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations be made to Gideons International at P.O. Box 359 Beuna Vista, GA 31803

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John Stonie Patterson, Jr.Beloved husband, father (daddy), and brother, John Stonie Patterson Jr., 49, of Richland, Geor...
12/15/2025

John Stonie Patterson, Jr.

Beloved husband, father (daddy), and brother, John Stonie Patterson Jr., 49, of Richland, Georgia passed away peacefully and surrounded by family and friends at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas on Saturday, December 13th after putting up a courageous fight against cancer.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Summerville Baptist Church, 3500 Summerville Road Phenix City, Alabama 36867 with Rev. Robb Goodman officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be held at Harmony Cemetery in Richland, Georgia according to McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, 3874 Gentian Blvd. Georgia 31907.

Stonie was born on January 19, 1976, in Columbus, Georgia to John Stonie Patterson, Sr. and Pamela Louise Greer Patterson. Stonie was known as a hard worker, someone who would always be willing to lend a hand, but most of all the truest and most loving friend and family member. His love of fishing, hunting, and the outdoors began as a little boy where he loved to spend time with his father. This passion continued as he made numerous memories with friends and family. While growing up, Stonie and his family traveled due to his father's service in the United States Army. They were stationed in Germany; Fort Rucker, Alabama; Fort Levenworth, Kansas; and Fort Benning, Georgia. While in college, Stonie met his wife, Kristie Thrower Patterson, of Smiths Station, Alabama. They had a beautiful marriage filled with love and laughter for 23 years. Stonie was the best father to two incredible girls, Annsley (20) and Adley (14). The three of them were his pride and joy. After the passing of his parents, Stonie and Kristie moved their family to the farmland in Richland, Georgia where he had so many wonderful memories growing up. They made a home in the house he grew up in. Their home was constantly filled with Stonie’s amazing cooking, sarcastic comments, jokes, and so many memories that they will forever cherish. His sister, Vonda, joined them on the farmland a few years ago which meant so much to him to have his sister and friend on the land to join him on his adventures. After deciding he no longer wanted to pursue a career in computer science, his soon to be father-in-law taught him how to run a body shop and repair vehicles. He later became the owner and operator of Ben’s Body Works Inc. in Phenix City, Alabama where he loved to work on cars and enjoyed talking to and caring for his customers. Stonie’s unwavering commitment to his customers earned him a very loyal and trusting customer base.

He attended Summerville Baptist Church where he was covered in love and prayers. Although this horrible disease brought so much hurt and pain, God used it to bring Stonie’s salvation and now eternal healing. His family finds comfort in knowing he is now healed and spending eternity with God, his father, and his mother, and they look forward to one day seeing him again.

Stonie is preceded in death by his parents, John Stonie Patterson, Sr., and Pamela Louise Greer Patterson. Stonie is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Kristie Thrower Patterson of Richland, Georgia; daughters, Annsley Patterson and Adley Patterson both of Richland, Georgia; sister, Vonda Patterson of Richland, Georgia; Carmen Estes (Shaun) of Richland, Georgia; niece, Maggie Estes of Richland, Georgia; nephew, Blakely Estes of Richland, Georgia; father and mother-in- law, Derrell and Shelia Thrower of Smith Station, Alabama; and many loving cousins, aunts and uncles who loved him dearly.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent to Stewart/Webster Cancer Fund c/o Nikki Bryant 6381 Hamilton Street Preston, Georgia 31824.

https://www.facebook.com/STEWARTWEBSTERCANCERFUND/

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Leslie StettesLeslie Stettes, a beloved matriarch and guiding light, left this world on December 14, 2025, at her cheris...
12/15/2025

Leslie Stettes

Leslie Stettes, a beloved matriarch and guiding light, left this world on December 14, 2025, at her cherished home in Columbus, Georgia, a place imbued with the warmth of five generations of family memories. Born on August 11, 1946, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, Leslie embodied the essence of a quintessential Southern lady, embracing the charm and richness of Southern culture while playfully lamenting the pesky mosquitoes and the bustling Atlanta traffic.

She dedicated her professional life to uplifting and supporting countless business owners as a Revenue Agent, instilling in them a fervent desire for success. Leslie’s commitment was not merely a career; it was an expression of her spirit—a spirit that resonated with all who crossed her path. She truly never met a stranger; her effortless warmth and genuine concern made her a confidante and friend to many, bridging connections across diverse walks of life.

Leslie was a woman of many interests and talents. An avid reader, she immersed herself in the pages of countless books, making frequent trips to the bookstore, eager to feed her insatiable curiosity. She found joy in music, spending years singing in the choir at Morningside, where she would often joke that when she arrived in Heaven, she could be found in the Alto section, adding her voice to the celestial chorus. Christmas was undoubtedly her favorite holiday, a time when she brought her artistic flair to life, adorning every corner of her home with decorations that sparkled with love and cheer.

She was not only a nurturer of dreams but also a passionate traveler. Leslie reveled in exploring new places, yet there was a special comfort that brought her back home—where love and laughter echoed through the halls, and where her heart resided in the company of her family. Leslie’s proudest accomplishment was her family, a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of love and connection. She delighted in every moment spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, even as their lively energy left her pleasantly worn out. Each gathering, each shared story, painted a picture of the legacy she cherished.

Leslie is survived by her devoted husband, Ken, alongside a constellation of family who carry forward her memory. This includes her daughter Kim and son-in-love, Brian Jones, her grandchildren Michael Jones and his wife, Khadeshia, and daughter, Celeste, along with Jordan Jones and her children Rory, Christopher, and Abigail, and Taylor Benford with her children Declan and Jaxon. She also leaves behind grandsons Michael Engle and Bryan Engle, granddaughter Jennifer Jones, brother, Chuck Bryant with her sister-in-love, Pam and their daughter, Carol, step-daughter, Christie Stettes, step-son Scott Stettes and daughter-in-law Nikki Stettes, and grandsons Kaleb Stettes and his wife Darion, as well as granddaughters Adrianna and Emilea Stettes.

Leslie was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Eloise and Wilson Bryant, whose influence undoubtedly shaped the remarkable woman she became.

In the hearts of those who knew her, Leslie Stettes will forever remain an indelible presence, a beacon of compassion, joy, and unyielding love. A visitation to honor her life will take place on December 18, 2025, from 5 PM to 7 PM at McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, located at 3874 Gentian Blvd., Columbus, GA 31907.

As friends and family gather to celebrate Leslie's extraordinary journey, they will do so with laughter, warm remembrances, and a profound appreciation for the time shared with such a remarkable soul. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of so many, a testament to a life beautifully lived.

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3874 Gentian Boulevard
Columbus, GA
31907

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Our Story

We have years of experience caring for families, from all walks of life. Each family comes to us because they know we are leaders in our profession, dedicated to excellence in service, and have the highest integrity. Our History James McMullen started working in Columbus as a young man in his father's business, McMullen Garage and Service Station located on Andrews Road in Columbus, Ga. He attended Rosemont Elementary and was a 1958 Graduate of Jordan Vocational High School. After graduating from high school, James attended Georgia Southwestern College. He was a U.S. Army Veteran serving in Germany. After returning from Europe in 1961, he began his career in Funeral Service. In 1964, James graduated from Dallas Institute of Mortuary Science in Dallas, TX. and worked locally for many years. In 1987 he and his son Allen and their family opened McMullen Mortuary. Mr. McMullen, who died in 2015, served thousands of families in this community over the past 50 years. The roots of McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory go back to 1987. The original business was located on 13th Street and Webster Ave. in downtown Columbus, Georgia. "It is important to improve the level of service available to Muscogee County families, and establish more of a community oriented business," states Allen McMullen. In March of 1995 a groundbreaking was held for the new facility on Gentian Blvd. On July 15, 1996, an open house and dedication ceremony was held for the new funeral home. The 18,000 square-foot facility features a spacious chapel, viewing rooms, a family lounge, and more than 200 parking spaces. The building also contains handicapped accessible facilities. The chapel area is designed not just to accommodate wheelchair users, but to make sure that they can participate in services in a meaningful fashion. "In a community like Columbus," noted Allen McMullen, "it's almost impossible to separate friends, neighbors and family. We're honored and humbled that so many people look upon the McMullen family and staff as an extension of their own family. It's a compliment-and a deep trust-that we sincerely try to uphold in everything we do. Our life is more than just neighbors helping neighbors, its friends caring for friends every day, all the time, not just in times of need."