Strickland Funeral Home - Hartwell Chapel, 305 Cleveland Avenue, Hartwell, GA (2026)

03/29/2026

Saan Teasley

Mr. Saan Andrew Teasley, 61, of Hartwell, passed away peacefully Sunday, March 29, 2026 at his home surrounded by his family.

Born on March 16, 1965 in Hartwell GA, he was the son of the late Bruce Andrew Teasley and Jane Elizabeth Fleming Teasley. Saan was a self-employed farmer and a devoted member of the Bethesda Methodist Church.

Survivors include his wife: Gwen Stowe Teasley; a son: Drew Teasley (Ashley) of Hartwell; two daughters: Lauren Gagnon (Bryan) and Caitlin Dye (Adam) all of Hartwell; a brother: Shannon Teasley (Jean) of Hartwell; three grandchildren: Hazel Gagnon, Conrad Teasley and Shane Dye; two sisters-in-law: Kathy Brock and Sondra Dodd both of Hartwell also survive.

The family will receive friends Monday, March 30, 2026 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell. Other times the family will be at the home.

Funeral services for Mr. Saan Teasley will be Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at the Bethesda Methodist Church with Rev. Bryce Behnke officiating. Burial will be in the Bethesda Methodist Church Cemetery.

Flowers are optional, and memorials may be made to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis TN 38105 or Ronald McDonald House, 2580 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta GA 30329

The Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements

View Saan Teasley's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/23/2026

Marcy Wicker Hill

Ms. Marcy Jane Wicker Hill, 57, of Hartwell, passed away Sunday, March 22, 2026 at her home.

Born on August 2, 1968 in Kansas City KS, she was the daughter of Elsie Jane Carruth Wicker and the late Terry Wicker. Marcy graduated from the Medical College of Georgia with a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. She was also a member of the Reed Creek Baptist Church, where she helped in the Children’s ministry.

Survivors include her mother: Jane Wicker of Hartwell; a daughter: Amber Brewer (Caleb) and a granddaughter: Hazel Brewer all of Dublin GA; two sons: Brandon Hill (Taylor) of Eastanollee GA and Tyler Hill of Guyton GA; a sister: Jody Slice (David) of Anderson SC; a niece: Emily Payton (Zach); two nephews: Luke Slice and Adam Slice (Kinsley Mize); great-niece and nephew: Sarah Ann & Walker Payton; and her life partner: Dale Andrews also survive.

The family will receive friends Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 11:00 am to 12 noon in the Sanctuary of the Reed Creek Baptist Church in Hartwell. Other times the family will be at the home of her mother, Mrs. Jane Wicker, Wicker Rd, Hartwell.

Marcy wished to be cremated and a memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at 12:00 noon, with Pastor Marlon Valladares & Mr. Luke Slice officiating, following the visitation in the church sanctuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Reed Creek Baptist Church Children’s Ministries, 116 Boleman Hill Road, Hartwell GA 30643.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.

View Marcy Wicker Hill's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/21/2026

John "Buzzy" Griffith Jr.

Mr. John L. “Buzzy” Griffith Jr., 74, of Hartwell, passed away peacefully Friday, March 20, 2026, at Piedmont Athens Regional Hospital surrounded by his family.

Born on September 9, 1951, in Douglas GA, he was the son of the late John L. “Johnny” Griffith Sr. and Dorothy Cowart Griffith. Buzzy is survived by his devoted and caring wife of 52 years, Kathy; his daughter Mandy Harper (Mac) of Chapin, SC; and his son John L. “Bo” Griffith III of Atlanta, GA. He was the proudest “Poop” to his beloved knuckleheads—grandsons Ty Harper (19) and Griffith “Griff” Harper (17).

He is also survived by his cherished siblings: Susan Couch of Watkinsville, GA; Ginger Summerville of Duluth, GA; Georgia Griffith of Anna Marie Island, FL.; and Robert Griffith (Becky) of Dacula, GA; along with his special sister-in-law Becky Welch of Lafayette, GA. Buzzy adored his 10 nieces and nephews and 12 great-nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Buzzy was a graduate of Duluth High School and East Tennessee State University, where he was the place kicker for the Buccaneers while earning his BS in Health Science. He began his career as a high school football and soccer coach at Aiken High School in Aiken, SC, and Miller County High School in Colquitt, GA. His love of coaching and his talent for motivating young people never left him.

Buzzy went on to spend 29 years with Martin Marietta Aggregates, as a sales rep and then manager in the Macon, GA; Savannha, GA; Columbia, SC; and Duluth, GA. He later enjoyed several years with Blue Grass Materials before fully retiring. He was a proud member of the Georgia Crushed Stone Association and built lifelong friendships throughout his career.

Sports were woven into every part of Buzzy’s life, especially Georgia Football. His most treasured memories were coaching Bo at Seven Oaks Park in Irmo and continuing to support and coach him through high school and college baseball. Buzzy never missed a game or competition of Mandy cheerleading. As for his grandsons, he was their biggest fan and was often found in the stands, sometimes sneaking in the dugout, and always coaching from the heart.

In retirement, Buzzy embraced every moment: attending Georgia football games, golfing with his Hartwell buddies at Cateechee Golf Club, watching Ty and Griff play baseball and never missing his UGA Monday Quarterback Club meetings. He was a member of Hartwell First Methodist Church. Buzzy was a master storyteller, a friend to all and never met a stranger. His quick wit, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by everyone who had the joy of knowing him.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals at Piedmont Hospital Atlanta, Piedmont Athens Regional, Elberton Memorial Hospital, and Compassus Hospice for their compassionate care.

Family and friends are invited to Buzzy’s Memorial Service at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, April 12, 2026 at Hartwell First Methodist Church with Dr. R. Allen Stewart and Rev. Matt Parker officiating. A Celebration of Life will follow at Cateechee Golf Club (3:30-5:00). Wear your GA Red and Black or your best golf attire!

In lieu of flowers, the family ask that memorials be made to:

Hartwell First Methodist Church: Youth or Children’s Ministries

https://www.hartwellfirstmethodist.com/giving

or

Irmo Chapin Recreation Center, where his children and grandchildren participated in community sports:

The Chase Loveless Memorial Scholarship Fund

https://www.cognitoforms.com/IrmoChapinRecreationCommission1/DonateNowGiveTheGiftOfRecreation

or you can call 803-772-1228 Administration Office.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with the arrangements. On-line condolences can be sent to the family at www.stricklandfh.com.

View John "Buzzy" Griffith Jr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/19/2026

Dr. Wendell Bannister (Courtesy)

Dr. Wendell Ray Bannister, age 83, of Anderson, SC, passed away on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at Hartwell Health and Rehabilitation.

Born October 27, 1942, in Anderson County, SC, he was a son of the late Robert Leon Bannister and Rebecca Vanadore Bannister. He was also preceded in death by two brothers-in-law, Roger Whitmire and Roy McCoy.

Dr. Bannister was a graduate of Belton High School and served in the National Guard. He went on to earn his Master's Degree and Doctorate of Divinity and Theology from Luther Rice Seminary. He began his ministry at Flat Shoals Baptist Church in Hartwell, GA, followed by Woodfields Baptist Church in Greenwood, SC, and retired after 33 years as a faithful servant of Orrville Baptist Church in Anderson, SC. After retirement, he went back to Hartwell, serving as the interim pastor at both Flat Shoals Baptist Church and Sardis Baptist Church. He was a member of Concord Baptist Church.

Dr. Bannister's ministry mission was to preach the Word with love and compassion. He always had a passion for senior adult ministries and especially enjoyed going to nursing homes to spend time with the residents. He was a pastor's pastor, serving as a mentor and advisor to many pastors throughout the years as well as to many youth and students. He was a faithful servant of the Lord, loved his family, God and the church.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Helen Phillips Bannister; sons, Cam Bannister (Teresa) and Dale Bannister (Christi); brothers, James Bannister (Judy) and Mike Bannister (Tracie); sisters, Shelby Whitmire, Ann Key (Bobby), and Sharon McCoy; grandchildren, Braden Bannister (Kelsie), Caitlyn Bannister (Kate), Jordan Bannister, Ethan Bannister, and Kerigan Bannister; and great grandchildren, Orren and Stetson.

The family will receive friends on Friday, March 20, 2026, from 12:30-1:30 pm at The McDougald Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at 2:00 pm in the Chapel with Rev. Chase Stone officiating. Burial will follow at Garden of Memories in Belton.

Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to AIM, 1202 S Murray Ave, Anderson, SC 29624, or Haven of Rest Ministries, 219 W. Whitner St, Anderson, SC 29624.

Condolences may be left for the family by visiting WWW.MCDOUGALDFUNERALHOME.COM

This announcement courtesy of the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell

View Dr. Wendell Bannister (Courtesy)'s obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/17/2026

Frances Floyd

Mrs. Mary Frances Eaves Floyd, 83, of Hartwell, passed away Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at Hartwell Health and Rehab.

Born on December 23, 1942 in Elberton GA, she was the daughter of the late Carlton Eaves and Dessie Lee Welborn Eaves. Mrs. Floyd was a beautician for 62 years and retired owner & operator of Hair Designs by Frances. She was a member of Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, where she was a choir member and a Sunday School Teacher. Frances loved her family and grandchildren. She wrote a memoir series talking about the History of Mt. Olivet Baptist Church and Flat Shoals Baptist Church and their communities for the Hartwell Sun.

Survivors include her two sons: Jay Floyd (Mandy) of Hartwell and Jeff Floyd (Becky) of Newnan GA; one daughter Kim Calipo (Darrel) of Temecula CA; ten grandchildren: Sadie Beck (Danny), Justin Floyd (Maxi Riese), Madison Floyd, Amanda Pilace (Steven), Zachary Vickery, Madison Lindow (Parker), Ali Calipo, Jackson Floyd, Lillie Floyd, Lindsey Floyd; and six great grandchildren: Molly, Avery, Sydney, Zoey, Rue and Otis.

Mrs. Floyd was preceded in death by her parents; her husband: Jerry Floyd; one daughter: Tina Floyd-Sherwood; one son-in-law: Rick Sherwood; one brother: Doug Eaves and one sister: Jean Eaves Rhodes.

The family will receive friends Sunday, March 22, 2026 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell. Other times the family will be at their respective homes.

Funeral services for Mrs. Frances Floyd will be Sunday, March 22, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell with Rev. Jason Webb and Dr. Stuart Lang officiating. Burial will be in the Mt. Olivet Baptist Church Cemetery.

Flowers are optional, and memorials may be made to the Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, 2973 Mt. Olivet Road, Hartwell, GA 30643.

The Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.

View Frances Floyd's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/17/2026

Dianne Mercer Williams (Courtesy)

Mrs. Carol ‘Dianne’ Mercer Williams, 78, of Pulliam Mill Road, Dewy Rose, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at St. Mary's Hospital in Athens, surrounded by family and close friends. She was the wife of 48 years to Robert Daniel Williams, Jr.

The third of four children, Dianne was born in Elberton on September 23, 1947, daughter of the late Robert Lauren “Bud” Mercer and Maude Elizabeth Burden Mercer.

A proud 1965 graduate of Elbert County High School, her career began at Elberton Manufacturing Company before she went to work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Dianne dedicated over 30 years of service to the Corps, retiring from the Hartwell Project in September 2007 as an Operations Support Specialist. Throughout her career, she selflessly mentored numerous young people, instilling in them not only professional skills but life lessons they would carry with them forever. Her love of antiques led her to, along with her step-son Jeff, operate Dewy Rose Treasures for many years.

Dianne was an excellent cook who was widely known for making the best cheese straws. She found great joy in reading, being outside soaking up the sun, and spoiling her beloved fur babies Pepe, Razzy, and Gizmo. Dianne’s smile could brighten any room in which she entered, and her hugs could make anyone’s day. She was a friend to many, and prided herself in putting the needs of others before herself - always extending a helping hand, sharing a warm home cooked meal, or simply offering a listening ear to anyone in need.

Dianne is lovingly remembered by her husband Robert, who was the love of her life; sister, Sara Margaret Vaughn and Calvin of Elberton; brother, Gary Mercer and Tanya “Sam” of Dewy Rose; and her best friend, Karen Brown Johnson of Elberton. She also leaves behind her step-children: Jeffrey Williams and Terri of Elberton, Jonathan Williams of Elberton, and Julie Easterburg and Von of Dallas, NC; step-grandchildren: Parker Williams and Destiny, Fallon Simpson and David, Devon Easterburg and Taylor, and Breanna Easterburg and Nathan; and step-great-grandchildren: Wyatt Williams, Sabel Williams, Adien Easterburg, and Waylon Easterburg. Dianne's siblings blessed her with their children that she loved as her own, including: Margaret Ann Parker and Daniel, the late Robert Vaughn and Laurie, Brandon Mercer and Brittany, and Sean Mercer and Summer; and great-nieces and nephews: Mathew Parker, Byron Parker, Lucas Vaughn, Logan Vaughn, Liam Vaughn, Madelyn Mercer, and Claire Mercer.

Along with her parents and nephew, she is preceded in death by brother, Rabun "Ray" Mercer; and many fur babies who were waiting for her at Heaven's gate.

A time of visitation celebrating Dianne's life will be held on Thursday, March 19, from 6:00p.m. until 8:00p.m. at Berry Funeral Home.

She was adamant that she wanted no formal service, and the family is honoring her request. Burial will be private in the Stinchcomb United Methodist Church Cemetery where will be laid to rest among generations of ancestors.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Dianne's memory to the Elbert County Humane Society, Post Office Box 267, Elberton, GA 30635.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at berryfh.com. Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is respectfully in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Carol ‘Dianne’ Mercer Williams.

This announcement courtesy of the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell.

View Dianne Mercer Williams (Courtesy)'s obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/16/2026

Yetive Craft Davenport

Mrs. Yetive Craft Davenport, 93, of Hartwell, passed away Sunday, March 15, 2026 at Hart Care Center.

Born on April 29, 1932 in Hartwell GA, she was the daughter of the late John William Craft and Mary Emily Skelton Craft. Mrs. Davenport was a graduate of Berry College, a retired elementary school teacher from Fannin County School System and member of the Sardis Baptist Church.

Survivors include one brother: Tommy Craft of Hartwell and several nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Davenport was preceded in death by her parents; her husband: Joseph Willis Davenport; four brothers: Pete Craft, Dalton Grizzle, Gene Grizzle and Jack Grizzle and two sisters: Marie Vaughn and Mary Buchanan.

Graveside services for Mrs. Yetive Davenport will be Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at the Nancy Hart Memorial Park with Rev. Bruce Davenport officiating.

Flowers are optional, and memorials may be made to the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

The Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.

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

03/09/2026

Greg Lindsay

Mr. Gregory B. “Greg” Lindsay, 73, of Hartwell, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 6, 2026 at Brookdale of Hartwell.

Born on July 14, 1952 in Steubenville, OH, he was the son of the late Robert John Lindsay and Annette Rupert Lindsay. Mr. Lindsay was a Retail Improvement Specialist over the Bakery Departments for 30 Publix Grocery Stores in the Atlanta area. Greg loved bowling, woodworking, and was a former golfer.

Survivors include his wife: Kristi Miller Lindsay of Hartwell; two sons: Terron Vawter of Greenville, SC, and Damon B. Lindsay & Noel of Winder, GA; one grandson: Colin Lindsay; his twin brother: Geoffrey B. Lindsay of Valrico, FL; two nephews: Blair Lindsay & Shelly of Valrico, FL, and Todd Lindsay and Alicia of Land O’ Lakes, FL; and one great-nephew: Krystian.

Mr. Lindsay was preceded in death by his parents; daughter: Shayna Miller; and sister-in-law: Kerry Lindsay.

Mr. Lindsay’s wishes were to be cremated and no formal services are planned at this time.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.

View Greg Lindsay's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/08/2026

Ben Kay

Benjamin Paul Kay, Sr., 85, of Hartwell, Georgia went to be with the Lord surrounded by his loving family at 5:41 p.m. on Friday, March 6.

Born October 24, 1940, in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, He was the fifth child of James Martin and Helen Dixon Kay.

Ben was a devoted husband, father, Papa, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Ann Kay. Together they built a strong and loving family. He is also survived by his two children, Benjamin Paul Kay Jr. (Michelle) of Fernandina Beach, Florida and Leah Kay Lee (Michael) of Hartwell, Georgia

He was a proud Papa to eleven grandchildren: Jordan Kay of Hope Mills NC; Logan Franklin (Tanner) of Fayetteville; NC, Linwood Kay of Fayetteville, NC ; Hannah Lee of Hartwell, GA; Courtney Lee of Greenville; SC Gavin Kay of Fernandina Beach, FL; Riley Martin (Christian) of Jacksonville,FL; Jonathan Lee (Taylor) of Lavonia ,GA; Edison Kay of Fernandina Beach, FL; Kristen Lee of Hartwell, GA; and Jak Schafer of Fernandina Beach, FL. He was also blessed with six great-grandchildren: Indie, Annalee, Blayden, Annette, LaraLei, and Berkley, who is expected in April.

Ben is also survived by his brother Jim Kay (Jeannette); two sister-in-law’s, Carla Kay and Nadine Kay; his wife’s brother and sister, Jimmy (Alicia) Moore, and Libby (Leroy) Jeffers, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James, and Helen Kay; his sister, Rachel Textor; and his brothers, David and John Kay.

Ben proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Navy, then he received his BA in Accounting from Jones College of Jacksonville, Florida. He retired after 32 years of dedicated service with BellSouth. He then moved to Hartwell, GA to be closer to his family.

He had a deep love for the Lord, His Word, and sharing that faith with everyone around him. Ben loved gospel music, fellowship with his Sunday School class, and encouraging others in their walk with Christ. His greatest desire was that his children, grandchildren, and future generations would have a personal relationship with the Lord. His life leaves a legacy of faith, love, and devotion to God and family.

The family also wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to his compassionate hospice caregivers, Brooke Futral, Anna Sewell, Charles Rickett and his sitter, Kiana Stowers, whom he dearly loved.

The family will receive friends Saturday, March 21 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. in the sanctuary of the Lavonia First Baptist Church.

A Celebration of Life service for Mr. Ben Kay will be held at Lavonia First Baptist Church on Saturday, March 21 at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Building Fund at Lavonia First Baptist Church. P.O. Box 47 Lavonia, Georgia 30553 Beyond Campaign.

Ben will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his love for his family, and the countless lives he touched by sharing the Word of God.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.

View Benjamin Kay's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/05/2026

Barbara McCurley Crump

Barbara Jean (McCurley) Crump, of Athens, passed away peacefully on March 4 2026, at the age of 92.

She was born on a snowy night, December 16, 1933, in Elberton, Georgia, the first child of Mary Thornton McCurley and Albert McCurley. Raised in Hartwell, “Bobbie,” as she was affectionately known, attended Hart County High School, graduating in 1951. It was in Hartwell that she met the love of her life, Jack Perry Crump, whose family owned a dairy farm just down the road. They married and began their life together in what was lovingly known as the “little house on the farm,” where they welcomed three daughters.

Barbara and Jack later moved their young family to Athens, Georgia, where they established Crump and Dixon Construction Company. Barbara worked alongside her husband as a bookkeeper in the company’s early years before continuing her career at Westinghouse, the University of Georgia, and Lord & Stephens Funeral Home, forming lifelong friendships along the way. Together, they built their dream home in the woods overlooking a babbling creek, where she later delighted in watching her grandchildren play from her porch swing on the deck above.

Barbara had a true zest for life and found joy in gardening, reading, sewing, camping, and shopping. She especially cherished her camping trips to the North Georgia mountains at Turner‘s Corner with her best friends and her annual Cherry Blossom Festival outings with her three girls, where they wore matching outfits, laughed endlessly, and stayed up far too late. She appreciated the little things that made life beautiful. Just as she was rarely seen without her jewelry, each piece chosen with care, her home was lovingly adorned with cherished collections and meaningful knickknacks, every one holding a story. Most of all, she will be remembered for her joyful spirit and the warmth she shared so freely. She was happiest when surrounded by family and was blessed with a large one, including three siblings—her sisters, Pat and Carolyn, and her brother, Larry. She was also fortunate to enjoy many years with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Teresa Hembree (Ken), Susan Wages (Randy), and Pam Wallace (Norris); her siblings, Patsy Crump, Larry McCurley, and Carolyn Johnson; five grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; step-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews who will continue to honor her memory.

Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 25 years, Jack Perry Crump; her mother, Mary Thornton McCurley; and her father, Albert McCurley.

The family is forever grateful for the compassionate care provided by her dear friend and caregiver, Beverly Craft, as well as the staff at Manor Lake Assisted Living, Pruitt Heritage Health of Athens, and Pruitt Hospice of Athens.

A graveside service celebrating the life of Barbara Crump will be held at Nancy Hart Memorial Park in Hartwell, Georgia on Sunday, March 8 at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution in Barbara Crump's memory to PruittCares Foundation or a hospice organization of your choice.

The Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements

View Barbara McCurley Crump's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/05/2026

Gail McGee Manter

Mrs. Gail McGee Manter, 73, of Hartwell entered her eternal home in the early hours of March 5, 2026 at Manor Lake Assisted Living in Athens, GA surrounded by loved ones.

Born on April 30, 1952 in Anderson, SC, she was the daughter of the late Theron O. McGee and Ellen Evans McGee. Gail was an active member of Hartwell First Methodist Church.

Survivors include two sisters: Angie M. Gurley and Jana M. McGee (Bill) all of Hartwell and two nephews: Jim Gurley, Jr. and Josh Gurley (Ashley) along with James and KelleyAnn, her beloved great-niece and nephew whom she adored! A host of friends also survive. Gail was preceded in death by her parents as well as the love of her life, her husband, Tom Manter.

Gail was an honor graduate of Hart County High School and the Grady School of Journalism at the University of Georgia.

Although Gail grew up as a member of the Hartwell Methodist Church, she was active in various churches as well throughout her life. She used her God-given talent of singing to grace multiple church choirs. She also was instrumental in creating new Sunday School classes and led numerous Bible Study groups.

Gail was a woman of many talents. Her love for photography was evident in the way she tenderly worked photographing children and her great love of posing beautiful brides on their special day. If anyone ever needed a master photographer, they immediately thought of Gail. She photographed numerous birthday parties, anniversaries, and other special occasions throughout her life.

Gail was also an accomplished artist. As a young child, she was extremely gifted in free-hand drawing and painting. In later life, Gail reveled in creating beautiful jewelry for special friends and participating in fundraising events in which her jewelry was sold.

Gail was also an accomplished writer, serving as a guest columnist for the Hartwell Sun in her later years. She orchestrated numerous human interest stories and wrote about real-life situations in Hartwell and beyond that captured the interest of friends as well as new acquaintances.

Paramount to Gail’s many accomplishments was her true servant’s heart. Gail loved to help people in any way she could. This was especially evident in the way she lovingly mentored volunteers as a part of her work as Volunteer Manager at Odyssey Hospice in Athens, GA. Gail’s loving and caring personality was infectious and her zealous devotion to her clients made her a perfect fit for this position.

Gail’s deep Faith was evident in every walk of life. Along with Mrs. Jo Harris and Jo’s daughter, Frankie, Gail was instrumental in establishing the “Glory Girls” a group of women who loved the Lord. The group quickly grew in number which led to multiple retreats, Bible Studies, and gatherings throughout Georgia and South Carolina. Gail’s artistic talent was once again employed as she took lead in developing flyers, emails, posters, and lovingly creating special gifts for the participants.

Gail wished to be cremated, and a service will be held Sunday, March 8, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. at the Hartwell First Methodist Church with Dr. R. Allen Stewart and Rev. Matt Parker oﬃciating. A reception will follow in the church fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hartwell First Methodist Church Building Fund, 200 E. Howell Street, Hartwell, GA 30643.

The family would like to thank a very special friend and caretaker, Pam Shropshire, for the many acts of love and kindness shown to Gail in her final years. They would also like to extend a heartfelt “thank you” to the staﬀ and caretakers at Manor Lake Assisted Living as well as private sitters who made Gail’s last days much more comfortable. Your kindness will never be forgotten!

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.

View Gail McGee Manter's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/04/2026

Kathie W. Cheatham

Miss Kathryn Watkins “Kathie” Cheatham, 68, of Hartwell, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at her home.

Born on January 24, 1958 in Anderson, SC, she was the daughter of the late William E. Cheatham and Kathryn “Kay” Watkins Cheatham. Miss Cheatham received her Bachelor’s Degree from Brenau University, and was a bank teller for the Northeast Georgia Bank. Kathie was a member of the Hartwell First Presbyterian Church where she was the former organist, pianist, and choir director. She was also an avid supporter of the Hart County Community Theater and the arts. She also loved animals.

Survivors include her sister: Barbara C. Davis of St. Simons Island, GA; two nephews: Brent Davis (Jennifer) of Pittsburgh, PA, and Will E. Cheatham IV (Melissa); and her beloved dog: Lucy.

Much appreciation goes to Sue Poole, a dear friend who provided years of companionship and fun for Kathie. Sincere thanks go to her caregivers. Extra special thanks to Ty and Freida Harper who cared for Kathie as if she was family!

Miss Cheatham was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers: William E. “Sandy” Cheatham III and David G. Cheatham; and one nephew: David George Cheatham Jr.

Miss Cheatham wishes were to be cremated and the family will receive friends Saturday, March 7, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hart County Animal Rescue, P.O. Box 45, Hartwell, GA 30643.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.

View Kathie W. Cheatham's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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