Fletcher-Day Funeral Home, Inc.

12/22/2025

Mr. David Wayne "Apple Dave" Wriston

Mr. David Wayne Wriston, 60, affectionately known to his family as “Apple Dave,” passed away leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories. David most recently resided in Yatesville, Georgia.

He was preceded in death by his father, Allen Clayton Wriston; and his beloved great-niece, Stephanie Taylor Wriston.

He is survived by his son, Charles Allen Wriston; his mother, Gloria Faye Wriston; his brother, Dean Wriston (Elizabeth); his sister, Lewanna Wright (Chris); nieces and nephews; Jennifer Modlin (John), Kyle Wriston (Kristian), Katelyn Howard, Logan Howard, and Landon Howard (Abbie Montgomery); David was the proud great-uncle to Olivia, Charlotte, Emily, Bentley, Addie Kate, Kyleigh, Sarah, and Jaxon, each of whom held a special place in his heart. He is also survived by a former wife, Gail, and her family, who remained close to David and the family.

The nickname “Apple Dave” was lovingly given to him when his great-nieces were little and couldn’t quite say “uncle”—a name that stuck and perfectly captured the affection his family had for him. David delighted in small but meaningful traditions, including his love of collecting rare dollar bills and gifting each great-niece and great-nephew a two-dollar bill on their birthdays, a simple gesture that brought joy and became a cherished memory.

After serving in the United States Army, David spent his career as a truck driver, primarily with JB Hunt, traveling through all of the lower 48 states. He loved the open road, especially driving through beautiful mountain landscapes, which never failed to capture his sense of wonder.

An avid bowler, David participated in many bowling leagues and found great joy in teaching children how to bowl, patiently sharing his skills and encouragement. He also loved traveling with his family, particularly trips to the mountains, where he always hoped to see snow. One of his favorite memories was taking the family to Disney World, where he found pure happiness watching the kids experience the magic and excitement.

David was a jokester with a silly personality, a math wiz, and above all, a fun uncle. He could often be found playing blocks, making faces, telling jokes, and being silly with the kids any chance he got.

David Wayne Wriston will be remembered for his generous heart, his playful spirit, and the deep love he had for his family.

Service will be at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at High Lawn Funeral Home with Pastor Bill Gillman officiating.

Friends may visit with the family 1 hour prior to the service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.highlawnfuneral.com. Fletcher-Day Funeral Home assisted with local arrangements.

View Mr. David Wayne "Apple Dave" Wriston's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/15/2025

Mr. Thomas Jonathan Jackson

Mr. Thomas Jonathan Jackson, 88, of Thomaston, died Sunday, December 14, 2025 at Upson Regional Medical Center. Funeral services for Mr. Jackson will be held on Wednesday, December 17, at 2pm at The Gathering, with Rev. Charles Bennett officiating. Interment will follow in South View Cemetery. The family will receive friends 2 hours prior to the service.

Tom was born in Pound, VA, on February 21, 1937 to the late William F. Jackson and Tabitha Powers Jackson. He married the love of his life, Norma, in 1958. After the birth of their first child, they moved to Atlanta, Georgia in 1961, where he attended Georgia State College and obtained a business degree. In the early 1970s, Tom, Norma and their two daughters moved to Thomaston, Georgia, where he began his illustrious career as a Certified Public Accountant. He served Thomaston and the surrounding communities for over fifty years and enjoyed helping people with their financial needs.

His commitment to service extended beyond his profession, leaving a legacy of kindness and integrity. Active in his community, he served as a Charter Member of the Rotary Club for over three decades. He was also a member of the Lions Club, Shriners Club, Chamber of Commerce and TUAC (Thomaston Upson Arts Council). He served as an elder for many years at the Presbyterian Church and later joined The Gathering where he was an active member.

Tom's curiosity and zest for learning were matched only by his passion for sharing these experiences with those he loved. In the 1970s, Tom and Norma discovered their affinity for dancing. They began square dancing and joined the Woodland Squares. Later in life, they took up ballroom dancing and danced whenever they had the opportunity. Tom and Norma’s love for travel took them to many beautiful locations, with Porto, Portugal being their favorite. They were fortunate enough to sail to London on the Queen Elizabeth II (QE2) and fly back to New York City on the Concorde in 1990. As an avid reader and history enthusiast, he enjoyed visiting towns and cities of historical significance including Williamsburg and Normandy. He also loved watching old westerns and documentaries.

Tom was the epitome of a true gentleman—impeccably dressed, kind, thoughtful, and deeply caring toward everyone he met. His wonderful sense of humor and appreciation for good conversation brought laughter and joy to those around him. He was always ready with an engaging tale from his childhood in the hills of Virginia, captivating listeners with both his stories and his warm presence. There was often a sense of disbelief that someone so distinguished and refined could have come from such humble beginnings, but Tom wore his roots with pride and humility. He firmly believed that perseverance and hard work would lead to success in life, a philosophy he demonstrated through his unwavering dedication to his family, his chosen profession, and his community. His love for his family, his country, and his faith in the Lord was evident in the way he lived each day. As a devoted father, grandfather, and friend, he leaves behind a legacy of warmth and generosity that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In addition to his parents and six siblings, Tom was preceded in death by his beautiful wife, Norma Jackson.

Tom is survived by his two daughters, Denise Edenfield of Thomaston, and Traci (Chet) Huntley of Fernandina Beach, FL; a grandson, Adam (Allison) Edenfield of Milton, GA, granddaughter, Hayley (Ryan) Edwards of Atlanta, GA, and great-grandson Jackson Edenfield. He is also survived by his sister, Carole Neuenhoff of Caldwell, TX and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to The Gathering of Thomaston, GA or Little Children of the World in Barnesville, GA.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.

View Mr. Thomas J. Jackson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/03/2025

Mrs. Mary B. Pilkenton

Mrs. Mary B. Pilkenton, age 83, of Molena, passed away on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at Pike Manor Assisted Living.

Mrs. Pilkenton was born April 8, 1942, in Atlanta, Georgia to the late Frank Baker and the late Ruth Callie Sparks Baker. She owned and operated Forget-Me-Not Florist for over 30 years. She was a devout member of Mount Olive Baptist Church. She will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

Mrs. Pilkenton is survived by her grandchildren, Jamie (Tiffany) Pilkenton of Molena and Casey (Dan) Pilkenton of Chicago, Illinois; and her great grandchildren, Jaxon James Pilkenton and Ella Michele Pilkenton.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Pilkenton was preceded in death by her husband, William James Pilkenton, Sr., and her sons, Willam James “Jimmy” Pilkenton, Jr., Michael Todd Pilkenton, and Robert Jeffery Pilkenton.

Funeral services for Mrs. Pilkenton will be held Saturday, December 6, at 11:00 AM, at Mount Olive Baptist Church. Rev. Mark Harris will officiate, and interment will follow at the Mount Olive Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM at the church.

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to Mount Olive Baptist Church, 1177 Highway 109 West, Molena, GA 30258.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.

View Mrs. Mary B. Pilkenton's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/27/2025

This Thanksgiving, we pause with grateful hearts to reflect on the families we are honored to serve.

At Fletcher Day Funeral Home, we are continually inspired by the strength, resilience, and love we witness within our community—especially during life’s most difficult moments.

We hope this season brings you moments of peace, warm reflection, and time spent with the people who matter most.

From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving.

May your day be filled with gratitude and grace.

Your Fletcher-Day Family

11/25/2025

🎉 Happy Birthday, Phyllis! 🎉

From all of us at the Fletcher Day family, we want to wish you the happiest of birthdays!

Phyllis, your life is a beautiful reflection of dedication, kindness, and service.

Phyllis, we love you, we celebrate you, and we are so grateful for the light you bring into the world.

Wishing you a blessed, joyful, and unforgettable birthday. ❤️

— Your Fletcher-Day Family

11/20/2025

Mrs. Mary Lee Brookins Ard

Mrs. Mary Lee Brookins Ard, age 78, of Thomaston, died Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at Riverside Health and Rehab.

Memorial services for Mrs. Ard will be held on Saturday, November 22, at 1:00 PM, in the chapel of Fletcher-Day Funeral Home, with Dr. Ryan Christopher officiating.

Mrs. Ard was born in Baldwin County, Georgia, on July 13, 1947, to the late Chancey Brookins and the late Lucille Brookins. She was a homemaker who enjoyed cooking and caring for her children. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ben Jeff Ard, Sr.; a daughter, Suzette Avery; and three sons: Kevin Ard, Benjie Ard, and William Mark Ard.

Survivors include her daughter, Lucy (Jeff) McDaniel of Thomaston; two sons: Perry Ard of Thomaston and Kerry Joe Ard of Covington; several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.

View Mrs. Mary Lee Brookins Ard's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/20/2025

Mr. Wilton Scott McDaniel

Mr. Wilton Scott McDaniel, affectionately known as Scott, passed away on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at his home in Yatesville, Georgia. He was 54.

Born on November 22, 1970, in Spalding County, Scott's life was marked by dedication to family, community service, and his love for the outdoors. Scott had an extensive career, beginning with his service in the City of Griffin Fire Department for nine years. Following he founded, owned, and operated Redbone Sprigging Service, LLC for 18 years. He later transitioned to law enforcement, serving with both the Griffin Police Department and Spalding Sheriff's Office as a K-9 Handler, before retiring from the Meriwether County Sheriff's Office. His commitment to protecting and serving his community was evident throughout his varied and distinguished career.

Scott embodied a spirit of adventure and appreciation for nature. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing, and trapping. His passion for the outdoors extended to hunting ducks, doves, and various other birds. Scott was particularly fond of his animals, especially his beloved cat, Ducky. He was a member of Antioch Baptist Church.

Scott cherished his role as a loving husband and father, and his family was his proudest accomplishment. He celebrated 33 and a half years of marriage with his loving wife, Denise Wilson McDaniel of Yatesville. Together, they raised three children: Lauren McDaniel of Yatesville, Sam (Katie) McDaniel of Memphis, Tennessee, and Ben (Eve) McDaniel of Augusta, and his mother, Frances (Bentley) Strom also survives.

Scott was predeceased by his father, Otis Wilton McDaniel.

A funeral service for Scott will be held Sunday, November 23, at 4:00 PM, at Antioch Baptist Church. The family will receive friends from 3:00 PM until 4:00 PM at the church on Sunday. Interment will follow the service at Lamar Memory Gardens.

Those desiring may make memorial contributions in memory of Wilton, Scott's father, to the Alzheimer's Association.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.

View Mr. Wilton Scott McDaniel's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/11/2025

Mr. Joseph Harvey "Joe" Burkett, Sr.

Mr. Joseph Harvey "Joe" Burkett, Sr. was born on July 18, 1945, in Forsyth, Georgia. He passed away on Monday, November 10, 2025, at Atrium Health Navicent in Macon, Georgia. He was 80 years old. Joe Burkett will be remembered for his hardworking spirit and the love he shared with his family.

Joe was a graduate of R.E. Lee Institute, class of 1963. He proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War as a helicopter mechanic. Joe was a dedicated and hardworking man who held various careers throughout his life, from photography to truck driving, retiring as a truck driver. He loved watching basketball, riding motorcycles, and attending Bike Week with his brother Tommy. Additionally, he enjoyed watching NASCAR and engaging in Sunday afternoon talks/arguments about the races with Tommy.

Joe is survived by his eight children: Rickey (Cindy) Burkett of Phenix City, Alabama; Susan (Joseph) Walden of Phenix City, Alabama; Joe Burkett of Fort Valley; Anna Burkett of Byron; Lillian Burkett-Welch of Warner Robins; Jason (Pam) Burkett of Danville, Kentucky; Candy (Abel) Galindo-Flores of Fort Valley; and Jada (Darrell) Gaddis of Junction City, Kentucky. He is also survived by his brother, Tommy (Sharon) Burkett of Thomaston, twenty-seven grandchildren, and thirty great-grandchildren, along with several nieces and nephews.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, James Harvey Burkett and Lillian Phillips Mills, his stepfather, Jack Mills, his sister, Barbara Jean Robinson, and his brothers Randy Burkett and Jerry Burkett.

Funeral services for Joe will be held on Monday, November 17, at 2:00 PM, at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home. A visitation will be held on Monday from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home. Interment with military honors will follow at Mountain View Baptist Church Cemetery.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.

View Mr. Joseph Harvey "Joe" Burkett, Sr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/09/2025

🎉 Happy Birthday to Our Vice President, Darren Day! 🎉

Today we’re celebrating a very special member of our Fletcher-Day Funeral Home family — Darren Day! 💙

Darren’s compassion, leadership, and dedication to serving families with care and kindness make such a meaningful impact on everything we do. We’re so grateful for his heart and the example he sets every day.

Please join us in wishing Darren a wonderful birthday filled with happiness, laughter, and all the things he enjoys most!

11/05/2025

Mrs. Cherry Lee Rush

Mrs. Cherry Lee (E’Dalgo) Rush, beloved wife, faithful daughter, memory-making mother, creative grandmother, and joyful woman, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at the age of 76 in Fort Worth, Texas.

In 1991 Cherry moved to Thomaston, Georgia, with her husband Rev. Dale Rush and their three sons when he became pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church. She taught ESL at Flint River Technical College in Thomaston from 1999 to 2005, and then at Southern Crescent Technical College in Griffin from 2005 to 2019.

Cherry was passionate about following Jesus Christ and dedicated her life to teaching and uplifting others in her church and community. She was a compassionate listener who genuinely cared about others' stories, and she found joy in sharing her own stories about her Savior and her family.

Cherry is lovingly remembered by her three sons and their families: David and Nichole Rush of Fort Worth, Texas; John and Shannon Rush, of Morganton, North Carolina; and Philip and Mary Beth Rush of Greer, South Carolina. She leaves behind seven adored grandchildren who brought immense joy to her life.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Friday, November 14th, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home in Thomaston. A celebration of Cherry’s life will be held on Saturday, November 15th, at 11:00 AM at Southside Baptist Church in Griffin. The service will be live-streamed and accessible through her online obituary.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering in the honor of Mrs. Rush by clicking here or visiting the QR code below.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.

View Mrs. Cherry Lee Rush's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/01/2025

Ms. Marsha Gail Posey

Ms. Marsha Gail Posey, age 63, of Thomaston, died Friday, October 31, 2025, at her residence. Her family will hold a private memorial service at a later date.

Ms. Posey was born in Thomaston on February 12, 1962, to the late Rufus Fleming and the late Eleanor Kate Barrett Fleming. She had been employed by Georgia Avenue Cafe and Sunnyside Cafe. "Little House on the Prairie" was her favorite TV show. In addition to her parents, Ms. Posey was preceded in death by her brothers, Robbie and Randy Fleming.

Ms. Posey is survived by her daughter, Melissa Fleming (Joe Fields) of Thomaston; two sons: Matthew Lundy and Michael Fleming; a sister, Teresa Beacham; and a brother, Marti (Jennifer) Rogers. Several grandchildren, including Easton and Aubree, and many nieces and nephews also survive.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be shared at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.

View Ms. Marsha Gail Posey's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/31/2025

Mr. Willis Meyer "Dick" Hardy, Jr.

On the morning of October 31, 2025, the hills of Yatesville were a little quieter as Mr. Willis Meyer “Dick” Hardy, Jr., age 71, slipped peacefully from this world, surrounded by those who loved him most. He shaped a life rooted in love for his family, pride in his work, and reverence for the simple, beautiful things—an early sunrise over a field, the rhythm of a cast line, the warmth of loyal dogs at his feet. His family takes comfort knowing that Dick is home now—at peace in the presence of his Lord, his parents, his brother, and his beloved Gia—his journey on this side complete, his legacy of love continuing through those he leaves behind.

A proud 1972 graduate of R.E. Lee Institute, Dick was known not only for his academic dedication but also for his remarkable marksmanship as a member of the school’s rifle team. His skill and sportsmanship earned him a well-deserved place in the Thomaston-Upson Sports Hall of Fame in 2016. Continuing his education, Dick earned a Bachelor of Science in Business from Georgia Southwestern College—a foundation that served him well throughout his long and distinguished career. Dick’s professional life was deeply rooted in the textile industry. He began his career with Martha Mills and went on to retire as a supervisor from 1888 Mills. A proud member of the Textile Operations Executives (T.O.E.), he was admired for his diligence, leadership, and unwavering work ethic. He was a member of Molena Baptist Church.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dick found great joy in the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, a skilled marksman, and a lifelong enthusiast of weapons. His happiest days were often spent on his land—tending his garden, growing vegetables, and caring for his animals. His Papillons, constant companions through the years, brought him endless joy and comfort.

Dick leaves behind his loving wife of 46 years, Deborah Mercer Hardy, with whom he built a life rich in love and laughter. He is also survived by his daughters, Amelia Hardy and April Boyt (Justin) Savage, and his cherished grandsons, Jacob and Andrew Savage. His memory will also be treasured by his extended family and his devoted fur babies.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willis Meyer Hardy, Sr. and Jefflyn Bartlett Hardy; his brother, Mark Hardy; and his beloved Gia, who recently passed away.

Funeral services for Mr. Hardy will be held on Sunday, November 2, at 4:00 PM in the chapel of Fletcher-Day Funeral Home, with a private family interment to follow. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 3:00 PM until 4:00 PM on Sunday.

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Upson Humane Society, P.O. Box 1152, Thomaston, GA 30286.

Mr. Willis Meyer “Dick” Hardy, Jr. will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend—a man whose kindness, integrity, and zest for life touched all who knew him. His legacy of love, hard work, and quiet faith will continue to inspire those he leaves behind.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston is entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.

View Mr. Willis Meyer "Dick" Hardy, Jr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.