A. S. Turner and Sons Funeral Home

04/06/2026

Edward William Davenport

Ed was born in June 1960 to Maurice D. Davenport and Gloria Wellman Davenport. He grew up in the Decatur area, but spent many happy summers of his childhood in St. Johns, Newfoundland. He graduated from Shamrock High School in 1978, and attended Georgia State University, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Real Estate. He worked as an appraiser for about 15 years before settling into a career in commercial and television production during the 2000s. His favorite job was at TBS, where he worked on such popular programs as Dinner and a Movie, and Movie and a Makeover before retiring in 2018.

Ed was curious by nature, and loved new experiences. It was during one of these experiences, a continuing education course in golfing, that he met Linda. The two of them never did get good at golf, but they clicked as a couple and he remained devoted to her for the rest of his life. Together, they enjoyed traveling, going out to movies, plays, concerts, and sporting events.

An animal lover, Ed was especially fond of dogs, having grown up with several beagles and spitzes over the years. Linda encouraged his love for cats, and he was a devoted "cat dad," to Leo and his special girl, Trixie.

Ed never met a stranger, and even in the face of recent health challenges and family adversity, he maintained his easy-going sense of humor and optimism that things would get better.

In addition to Linda, Ed is survived by his mother Gloria, sister Donna, sister-in-law Stacey, nephew Dylan; many aunts, uncles, cousins; a lifetime of friends, as well as Linda's family.

He is predeceased by his father Maurice, and brother John.

He would love it if you would donate in his name to any animal rescue group in the metro area.

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

04/06/2026

04/05/2026

Thousands of years ago, Jesus Christ conquered sin and death so that we sinners might have life and have it to the full. Happy Easter!

04/03/2026

Funerals have been around from the beginning of time, and at Easter, we focus on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As you consider his sacrifice, also think about the meaningful rituals that surrounded the care of his body. This article discusses seven funeral rituals from Jesus' time that still exist today and are an important part of how we remember and honor those we love.

Even though we've gained a lot of modern conveniences, some things never change. Check out this article to learn 7 funeral rituals that have lasted ages.

04/03/2026

Good Friday reminds us that Christ suffered so that we might have life and have it more abundantly.

04/03/2026

Virginia Elizabeth Southard Goldie

Virginia Elizabeth Southard Goldie, 87, of Decatur, Georgia, passed away peacefully of natural causes on March 26, 2026.

She was born in New York in 1938 to Percy G. Southard and Virginia A. Southard. She attended Oceanside High School before graduating from Syracuse University, where she was a proud member of Gamma Phi Beta sorority.

Returning to Long Island after college, Virginia taught elementary school in Freeport and Oceanside. Teaching was her gift and her passion. She took tremendous satisfaction in helping children learn to read and study, and later in life loved hearing from former students who had built successful lives of their own.

After college, she reconnected with an old acquaintance, Charles H. Goldie, Jr. Virginia had known Charlie since childhood - he was her best friend's big brother - but it wasn't until she returned home that they both realized their friendship was something more. They married in 1964 and built a life together in Oceanside, raising three children: Jeanne, Charles, and Christina. Although she loved the classroom, being a mother was her favorite role of all.

She was a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church of Oceanside from childhood. As an adult, she taught Sunday School for many years, helped coordinate the church newsletter, organized rummage and bake sales, and served on numerous committees. The congregation remained close to her heart long after she moved away.

After Superstorm Sandy, she moved to the Atlanta area, where she embraced a new chapter browsing the library, striking up conversations at the supermarket, and spending more time with her daughter, Jeanne. She treasured visiting with family, including her daughter-in-law Tolu, son-in-law Jay, grandchildren Daniel (Laura), Thomas, Eva, Virginia, and Alexandra, and her great-grandchildren Mirele and Oliver.

Virginia had a soft spot for animals, especially cats. Fang, Shirley, Smokey, and Prince were among her most beloved. She also enjoyed sewing, writing and reading letters, and indulging in the occasional cheeseburger or glass of wine (though always "just an inch").

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her brother, Townsend Southard. Virginia is survived by her children, her grandchildren, and her great-grandchildren.

Virginia loved helping people in need. The family welcomes donations in her memory to a charitable organization of your choosing.

View Virginia Elizabeth Southard Goldie's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/02/2026

Georgia Vasilos

Georgia Parasho Vasilos, age 97, passed away on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. The daughter of Greek immigrants who fled from Asia Minor, Georgia was born January 21, 1929 in Bristol, Pennsylvania where her father was a haberdasher. During the Depression, Georgia's family moved to join other relatives in opening the Palmetto Luncheonette on Main Street in Anderson, South Carolina, where she and her brother John would grow up.

Georgia graduated with an associate degree from Anderson College in 1947. She went on to take a position as a bank teller in Anderson, where she received recognition for her work ethic and integrity. Georgia met her future husband Michael George Vasilos, when he came to visit her family; Georgia and Mike's parents knew each other from the time they were children in Nea Fokaia (Yenifoça). The couple married in 1950 at Grace Episcopal Church in Anderson, where the Greek community would hold services presided over by the Orthodox priest from Greenville. After their wedding, they lived in Astoria, New York City, where Georgia continued her work as a bank teller. They were blessed with three children, Mercedes, Mary Alice, and George, and Georgia devoted herself to caring for her home and her family.

In 1962, the family moved to Atlanta following Mike's transfer to the city with his work as a Supervising Engineer at Western Electric. After her children reached school age, Georgia began to work at the Georgia Heart Association. She continued there until 1984, when she retired. Throughout her life, Georgia often selflessly stepped into the role of caregiver, a testament to her compassion. Her priorities were always her family and her faith. An active member of the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation from the time of the parish's location on Pryor Street, Georgia contributed to her community by teaching Sunday School kindergarten, serving on the Church Mail Committee, volunteering at the Atlanta Greek Festival, and dedicating herself to the charitable work of the Philoptochos Society.

In the way that she lived, Georgia instilled in her children the importance of always doing one's best and working hard, of always being considerate to others and understanding of their feelings, and of offering unconditional love. While she never spoke about these things directly, she taught through her own example. There can be no better teacher.

Georgia is preceded in death by her beloved husband Michael Vasilos, her parents George and Mercedes Parasho, and brother John Parasho. She is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Mercedes and Jerry Paxton, daughter and son-in-law, Mary Alice and Les George, and son and daughter-in-law, George and Pamela Vasilos; grandchildren, Nicole Paxton, Michael (Angela) Paxton, Evangeline (Nathan Muller) George, Pete George, Sophia (Rhett) Massey, Georgianna (Jarret) Kettinger, and Michael (fiancée Niki) Vasilos; great-grandchildren, Enea Sullo, Avonlea, Sullivan, and Remi Massey, and Miles and Maria Muller; and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation, 2500 Clairmont Road, Atlanta, GA at 11:00 am Monday, April 6, 2026, and interment will follow at Floral Hills Memory Gardens, 3000 Lawrenceville Highway, Tucker, GA. The family will receive friends from 3:00-5:00 pm on Sunday, April 5, at A.S. Turner and Sons, 2773 N. Decatur Road, Decatur, GA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation Endowment Fund or the American Heart Association.

04/01/2026

Thomas Gregory Phillips Jr.

Thomas Gregory Phillips, Jr. (Greg), age 69 of Jasper, Georgia, entered into rest on March 31, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia at Emory Hospital after an extended illness.

Greg was born on May 6, 1956 in Atlanta, Georgia. Greg was a lifelong resident of Conyers, Georgia. Raised by a strong, independent mother, Greg grew up alongside his two brothers in a close-knit home where limited resources were devoted to creating shared memories and new experiences. Some of Greg's fondest memories were summers spent with his brothers at the beach and playing sports together. A talented athlete, Greg distinguished himself early on, winning a Golden Gloves boxing championship for his weight class. Greg also became a talented and well-respected machinist over the course of his career, spanning more than 30 years. He was widely known in his field, renowned for possessing the intricate precision skills and mastery to take on any metalworking challenge placed before him.

Greg's two sons, Chris and Chad, were his proudest achievements. A loving and dedicated father, Greg enjoyed laughing and playing with his sons long after they became adults. Ever the tinkerer, Chris and Chad will hold tightly to their memories building potato guns and experimenting with remote-controlled contraptions with their dad. Even as a grandfather, Greg always had some new gadget in tow when he visited his first grandchild, Maggie.

Later in life, Greg settled in the mountains of North Georgia in Jasper, finding a quiet and peaceful life. Greg enjoyed the fresh mountain air, quiet clear nights, and long walks with his pups. The mountains also provided beautiful scenery for rides on his motorcycle. After his family, Greg's second love was certainly his bikes- he never met a two-wheeled vehicle he didn't want to take for a spin.

Greg was a longtime and devoted member of Faith Community Church in Woodstock, Georgia, where he served faithfully as a Sunday school teacher and a trusted friend to many. Within his church family, he was known for his quiet generosity and readiness to support those in need. At the heart of every relationship was Greg's unwavering love for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Greg is survived by his sons, Joseph Christopher Phillips (Leigh) of Duluth, Georgia, and Chad Gregory Phillips (Tiffany) of Conyers, Georgia; his grandchildren, Maggie Phillips of Duluth and his newborn grandson, Chad Gregory Phillips, Jr. of Conyers, whom he cherished in anticipation but was not able to meet. He is also survived by his brother, Chris Phillips (Laura) of McDonough, Georgia; his sister-in-law, Rada Farmer of Gainesville, Georgia; and many treasured nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lois Phillips; his father, Thomas Gregory Phillips, Sr.; and his older brother, Joe "Mickey" Farmer. Greg also leaves behind his beloved four-legged companion, Lizzie, who

is now lovingly cared for by Chad and Tiffany and is sure to become his newborn grandson's loyal companion and best friend.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Faith Community Church in Woodstock in Greg's honor. 1100 Woodstock Parkway Woodstock Ga 30188

Arrangements will be announced at a later date.

His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!' -Matthew 25:23

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04/01/2026

David Nunley Brooks

David Nunley Brooks November 24, 1957 - March 30, 2026

David Nunley Brooks, a devoted father, grandfather, and friend to all who knew him, passed away on March 30th, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, faith, and genuine kindness.

Born November 24, 1957 in Decatur, GA, David was the youngest of eight children born to George Homer Brooks and Rosa Lee Damrun. David's lighthearted nature allowed him to brighten any room he entered and made everyone around him feel welcome.

Outside of family, David had many passions that brought him joy. He had a passion for bowling, billiards, fishing, and storytelling, all of which he enthusiastically shared with his children and grandchildren. But perhaps his greatest passion was his humor - a quick wit and easy laugh that drew people to him and kept them smiling long after the conversation ended. David had a way of making everyone feel like a friend - whether they'd known him for decades or had just walked through the door. That warmth was simply who he was.

In his final years he was deeply devoted to his church community and generously gave his time and spirit in support of those around him. His presence was a steady, quiet gift to all.

David is survived by his son, Shaun (Jessica) Brooks, and two granddaughters, Riley and Rory. He is also survived by his sisters Rebecca (Nathan) Owenby, Martha (Harold) Ewing, and Ione (Jon) Egan as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings Ray (Elizabeth) Brooks, Raymond Brooks, Rita (Norman) Williamson, Don (Denise) Brooks, and Rhonda (Ricky) Allison.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Zoar United Methodist Church, 3895 Zoar Church Road, Snellville, GA 30039. David will be laid to rest at Melwood Cemetery in Stone Mountain privately at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Zoar United Methodist Church, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, or any mental health or cancer research organizations in David's memory.

View David Nunley Brooks's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/01/2026

LaVerne K. Brown

LaVerne Karsten Brown, 89, died on Sunday, March 29, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia.

Born in Washington, D.C., to Frank and Opal Karsten, LaVerne grew up in a family devoted to public service. Her father, Frank Karsten, was elected to the United States House of Representatives, where he served his constituents for more than 25 years. LaVerne attended George Washington University and worked in her father's congressional office, where she developed a deep appreciation for the workings of government and a lifelong commitment to service.

It was during the Cherry Blossom Festival in 1956 that LaVerne met the love of her life, Lieutenant John William Brown - known to all as Bill. The two married and embarked on a life shaped by Bill's distinguished military career, with LaVerne embracing the demands and rewards of military life with grace and dedication.

In 1970, Bill answered a call to ordained ministry, and the family relocated to Alexandria, Virginia, where he attended Virginia Theological Seminary. During this chapter, LaVerne continued her own work in public service, serving as a member of the President's Commission on the Handicapped.

Inspired by Bill's vocation, LaVerne began her own deep exploration of faith and spirituality. She joined the Worker Sisters of the Holy Spirit, an international lay religious community dedicated to spiritual growth through prayer, worship, discovery, belonging, and mission. Over time, she rose to lead the organization, guiding its community with wisdom and devotion for more than fifty years. Her commitment to the Worker Sisters and Brothers of the Holy Spirit became one of the defining expressions of her life.

An avid traveler, LaVerne explored cultures around the world, bringing with her the same spirit of service that had guided her entire life. Among her most meaningful work was her involvement in Haiti, where she supported water relief efforts for communities in need.

In 2008, LaVerne moved to Atlanta to be closer to her daughter Katherine, settling into an active life in Decatur, Georgia. In her later years she made her home at Park Springs, a residential community where she remained connected and engaged.

LaVerne was preceded in death by her husband, the Reverend John William Brown, who passed away in 2005, and by her infant daughter, Charlotte.

She is survived by her daughters, Katherine (Jeff), of Decatur, Georgia, and Elizabeth, of Angier, North Carolina.

A private memorial service will be held later this year. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Episcopal Relief and Development agency.

https://www.episcopalrelief.org/ways-to-give/give-now/

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03/31/2026

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03/31/2026

Betty Jean Morris

Betty Jean (Hoff) Morris, 95, of Madison, Ga. died Sunday, March 29, 2026. She was a native of the Tucker community in DeKalb County, Ga. She and her twin brother, Billy, were born on June 5, 1930 at Grady Hospital in Atlanta, Ga., the daughter of George M. and Ruby M. (Nunn) Hoff. She is preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth F. Morris, in January 2020, along with her twin brother, Billy J. Hoff (2019), and grandson, Matthew C. Morris (2025).

Betty is survived by her family of six children and their spouses, Deborah (William) Tisdale of Woodstock, Ga., David (Lucie) Morris of Bogart, Ga., Paul (Robin) Morris of Raleigh, N.C., John (Diane) Morris of Swainsboro, Ga., James (Catherine) Morris of St. Marys, Ga., and Mary Morris of Cambridge, Ma.; twelve grandchildren and their spouses, W. Benjamin (Rachael) Tisdale, Kenneth (Kimberly) Morris, Daniel (Michele) Morris, Michael (Emily) Morris, Mark Morris, Elizabeth Morris, Livia (Rhett) Daniel, Vanessa Morris, Kirstyn (Brian) Galgon, David Sabatini, Emory Sabatini, and Lucas Sabatini; and nine great grandchildren, Caroline and Callie Tisdale, Dawson Morris, Anderson Morris, James Morris, Quinn Morris, David Morris, Ryley Daniel, and Reese Daniel.

Betty was a graduate of Tucker High School. Following her marriage to Kenneth Morris at Tucker ARP Church in 1950, she and Kenneth began a life of service in ministry of Christian faith that extended throughout their lives. Together, they served six years in the mission field in Pakistan, along with service at church communities in Arkansas, South Carolina, Georgia, North Carolina, and in theological ministry at Erskine Seminary in Due West, S.C. Through her life, she showed grace and boundless love to all whose lives she touched. She was blessed with a long and wonderful life; one she has always credited to God's eternal blessings. Her commitment to love and support of her family and the communities she served are a testament to a Christian life fulfilled.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 6, at Madison Presbyterian Church. The family will receive friends in the fellowship hall at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Habitat for Humanity of Morgan County, P.O. Box 207, Madison, GA 30650.

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