Fletcher-Day Funeral Home, Inc.

01/19/2026

Today we honor the life, legacy, and enduring message of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Dr. King reminded us that “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” His words continue to guide us toward compassion, service, and understanding; values that remain at the heart of our community.

On this Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, we pause to reflect, to listen, and to recommit ourselves to kindness, dignity, and respect for all.

01/14/2026

Mrs. Gloria Dawn Ivie Russell

Mrs. Gloria Dawn Ivie Russell, age 57, of Thomaston, died Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at her residence. Memorial services for Mrs. Russell will be held on Saturday, January 17, at 11:00 AM in the chapel of Fletcher-Day Funeral Home, followed by a private family inurnment in Crystal Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Saturday morning from 10:00 until the service hour.

Mrs. Russell was born on August 10, 1968, in Thomaston, GA. She was a 1987 graduate of R. E. Lee Institute, and she later earned a degree in Hospitality Management. She was an account manager for Revlon. Mrs. Russell was very creative and could make almost anything. She had a smile that lit up any room, she loved people and the Lord, and she was a good mother. She was a member of Evans Chapel in Woodland, GA.

Mrs. Russell was preceded in death by her father, James Claude “JC” Ivie. She is survived by her husband, Chris Russell of Thomaston; a son, Christian (Priscilla) Russell of Thomaston; her mother, Carmen H. Ivie of Culloden, GA; her Godparents, Pat and Larry Reece; her siblings: Hoyt (Katie) Ivie of Thomaston, Christy Rollyson Johnson of Cincinnati, OH, and William “Billy” (Meda) Sims of Culloden; her mother-in-law, Faye Russell of Woodland, GA; and sisters-in-law: Melissa Melton, Brooke (John) Gideon, and Heather (Michael) Ingram; nieces nephews: Anna Beth Ivie, Cohen Ivie, Addie Ivie, Payton Rollyson, Hampton Sims, Weston (Julienn) Sims, Madison Sims, Reagan Gideon, Logan ( T. J.) Thomas, and Abbie Ingram. Great nieces and nephews Hady-Hicks Bradley, Emberlynn Sims, Brynlee Thomas, Brooks Thomas, and Branson Thomas also survive.

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Multiple Sclerosis Society at 3200 Downwood Circle NW Suite 550. Atlanta, Georgia 30327.

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

View Mrs. Gloria Dawn Ivie's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/13/2026

Mr. Kenneth Daryl "Kenny" McComas

Mr. Kenneth Daryl "Kenny" McComas, a true jack of all trades and lover of life, rode off into the great beyond on Monday morning, January 12, 2026, at the Heritage Inn of Barnesville.

Born on December 17, 1958, in Hamilton, Ohio, Kenny embraced every twist and turn that life threw his way. Kenny was known for his remarkable ability to tackle any challenge that came his way; whether it was fixing a leaky pipe or crafting a solution to an unexpected problem, there wasn't much that he couldn't do. A graduate of Rittman High School in 1977, he carried that tenacity into all his endeavors, inspiring those around him to embrace their own unique talents.

When he wasn't busy being the go-to fix-it guy, Kenny could often be found revving up his beloved Harley Davidson motorcycle, feeling the wind whip through his hair as he hit the open road. A true motorcycle enthusiast, he took immense joy in the freedom and adventure that came with each ride—always on the lookout for the next scenic route.

Kenny leaves behind a loving family who cherished him deeply. He is survived by his children: Kristi (Karl) Dietrick of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Shannon (Marc) Brooks of Barnesville, Georgia; Cody (Huntre) McComas of Ravenna, Ohio; and Cherokee (James) Alexander of Midville, Georgia; and his grandchildren: Haley (Austin Chason) Brooks, Robert Brooks, Kameron Dietrick, Kaitlyn Dietrick, Ashlynn Dial, James Alexander, Harper Alexander, Atticus Alexander, and Titus Alexander. Kenny is also survived by his father, William Kenneth McComas; sister, Connie (Chuck) Sharpton; sister, Debbie Sharpton; brother, Doug McComas, and several nieces and nephews.

Kenny was preceded in death by his mother, Helen Salisbury McComas, and sister, Karen Perry.

Join us in celebrating Kenny's life on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 4 PM, at Northside Christian Church in Thomaston, Georgia with Pastor Jereme Chaney officiating.

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

View Mr. Kenneth Daryl "Kenny" McComas's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/13/2026

Mrs. Linda Melisse Hendrix

Linda Melisse Hendrix, a beloved member of the Commerce community, passed away on January 11, 2026, at the age of 84 in Gainesville, Georgia. Born on August 30, 1941, in Commerce, Georgia, Linda dedicated her life to both her family and her career as the owner of Peerless Laundry, where she was known not only for her hard work but also for her unwavering commitment to service.Linda enjoyed a rich and fulfilling life, embracing her passions and finding joy in the simple pleasures. She was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Commerce, where her faith played a central role in her life and in the lives of those around her. Friends and family will remember her love for the beach, precious memories shared with friends, and her boundless enthusiasm for gardening, reading, birds, and nature.

She is survived by her loving husband, Darrell Hendrix of the home; and their children: sons, Cleve (Kathy) Hendrix of Thomaston, GA; Clay (LeeAnn) Hendrix of Greenville, SC; and a daughter, Paige Hendrix of Greenville, SC. Linda's loving spirit will also be cherished by her sisters, Diane Mooney, Cathy Minish, and Cynthia Sorrow all of Gainesville, GA, along with her grandchildren Blair (Chris) Kemp, Brooks Borders, Bo Hendrix, Cal Hendrix, Zac Hendrix, and Mac Hendrix as well as her great-grandchild, Woods Kemp.Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd Thurmond and Margaret Lord Minish, and her two brothers, Dennis Minish and Sam Thurmond. The loss of her presence will be felt deeply by her family and all who had the honor of knowing her.

Visitation to honor Linda's life will take place on January 13, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Ivie Funeral Home in Commerce, Georgia. A funeral service will follow on January 13, 2026 at First Baptist Church of Commerce with Dr. Todd Chandler, Cleve Hendrix, and LeeAnn Hendrix speaking. A private burial will follow at Grey Hill Cemetery. Linda will be fondly remembered for her vivacious spirit, her love of family, and her contributions to the lives of many.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Commerce, 1345 S. Elm St., Commerce, GA 30529.

Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, and she will be missed dearly.

Ivie Funeral Home of Commerce is in charge of arrangements.

View Mrs. Linda Melisse Hendrix's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/12/2026

Ms. Carolyn Joyce Teal Fuller

On Sunday January 11, 2026, the world became a much quieter place with the passing of Carolyn Joyce Teal Fuller, age 72 of Thomaston, GA.

Renowned for her ability to turn any five-minute story into a fifty-minute story, Joyce’s family is now enjoying what they are calling their "first collective moment of silence in decades." Though she never had a filter, she was never short on love, and will be deeply missed. No doubt she is giving all the angels in heaven a detailed account of her life's adventures. I am sure that, at one point or another, everyone that knew her has had a conversation with her and tried to interject, only to be met with her loving but firm refusal to be interrupted. It wasn't because she didn't care what any of us had to say, but because she had so much to share. She spent her life ensuring her family was cared for, knew all her stories, and we are truly all better for it. We will honor her memory by remembering every lesson she taught us and all the tough love she bestowed upon us all.

She was born July 25, 1953, in Meriwether county, GA, a daughter of the late Joe A. Teal and Ruby Ione Riggins Teal.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her son, Robert Monroe Pilkenton III; her brothers, Dennis (Linda)Teal and Ronnie Teal; and sister, Ruby Joe (George) Jones.

Joyce is survived by her daughter, Wendy (Lenny) Retherford and her son Darrell (Dyeanna) Fuller, who often joke that she spoke more words before her first cup of coffee than most people speak all day. She is also survived by her 7 grandchildren, Lauren (Sam), Courtney (Josh), John, Kirsten (Chris), Justin, Kristen, Taylor(Grant), and her precious Wesley and 8 great grandchildren. We will all will miss the life lessons, words of wisdom and her undeniable presence. We love and miss her so much!!!!

A graveside service to celebrate Joyce's life will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 12:00 Noon at Faithful Christian Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Joey Smith officiating. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, from 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM, at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home.

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

View Ms. Carolyn Joyce Teal Fuller's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/12/2026

Ms. Brenda Ruffin Walker

Ms. Brenda Ruffin Walker, age 65, of Thomaston, passed away Monday morning, January 12, 2026, at her residence.

Funeral services for Brenda will be held on Thursday, January 15, at 2:00 PM, at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home. Pastor Jereme Chaney will officiate, and interment will follow in Crystal Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home Wednesday evening, January 14, from 5:00 until 7:00 PM.

Brenda was born in Thomaston on August 10, 1960, to the late Charlie King Ruffin and the late Annie Ruth Hubbard Ruffin. She was a 1980 graduate of R. E. Lee Institute and was formerly employed with Winn-Dixie as front end manager. She greatly loved her family, especially her niece, Kaitlin and her fur babies. Brenda was a member of Northside Christian Church where she was in charge of sending flowers and cards to sick and shut-in members for many years. She was also a member of Sunshine Ladies.

Brenda is survived by her sisters, Connie Byrd and Sandra Robinson, both of Thomaston; a special niece, Kaitlin Huffman of Thomaston; an aunt, Lynn Turner of Williamson, GA; two uncles: Bonnie (Lynn) Hubbard of Williamson, GA; and Bob (Margaret) Hubbard of Thomaston; two step sons: Christopher (Brandy) Walker of Chesapeake, VA, and Shawn (Angie) Walker of Powell Wells, NC. Ten grandchildren and several cousins also survive.

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to GA Transplant Foundation (GTF@gatransplant.org) or to Upson Humane Society, PO Box 1152, Thomaston, GA 30286.

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

View Ms. Brenda Ruffin Walker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/09/2026

Today, on Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, we want to express our sincere gratitude to the men and women who serve Thomaston and Upson County including the Thomaston Police Department, the Upson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Georgia State Patrol.

Thank you for your dedication, your professionalism, and the sacrifices you and your families make to keep our community safe. We are also grateful for the times you assist with funeral processions, helping families travel safely and with dignity during difficult moments.

From all of us at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home, thank you for all you do.

01/09/2026

Rev. Dr. J. Harold Smith

BLAIRSVILLE, GA

Rev. Dr. J. Harold Smith, age 86, of Blairsville, GA, died Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at his residence. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, January 24, at 11:30 AM, at the First United Methodist Church of Union County in Blairsville. The family will receive friends at the church from 10:30 until the service hour.

Dr. Smith was born October 6, 1939, in Flowery Branch, GA, to the late Jewell Bradley Smith and the late Bessie Duncan Smith. He was a 1957 graduate of Sugar Hill High School. He furthered his education at Rhinehardt College, earned a BBA degree from the University of Georgia in 1962, received a Master of Divinity from Emory University in 1965, and in 1983 received his Doctor of Ministry from McCormick Theological Seminary of the University of Chicago. Dr. Smith became an Elder in the United Methodist Church in 1965. He began his career as a youth minister in Augusta at St. James UMC. His first assignment as a Sr. Minister was at First UMC in Warrenton. He later served St. Paul UMC in Marietta, Snellville United Methodist in Snellville, First UMC in Thomaston, and W. R. Cannon UMC in Snellville. Following his service as a Sr. Minister, he served the North GA Conference as a District Superintendent of the Atlanta-Roswell District and the Athens-Elberton District.

Following his career with the United Methodist Church, Dr. Smith retired to a place he had always loved – the North Georgia mountains. He spent his retirement in Blairsville adoring his family, especially his grandchildren. He and Janice traveled extensively while he was able, and he enthusiastically cheered on his beloved Georgia Bulldogs for the rest of his life.

In addition to his parents, Dr. Smith was preceded in death by a brother, MSGT Carl H. Smith, USAF Ret.; a sister, Mary Nell Smith Gower; and a niece, Karen Gower Phillips. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Janice Moore Smith of Blairsville; two sons: Stephen Harold (Amelia) Smith of Macon; and Kevin Thomas (Amy) Smith of Baldwin; six grandchildren: Hadley Smith (Quinn) Roberts, Mallory Grace Smith, Elizabeth Elaine Smith, Brooks Thomas Smith, Bram Bradham, and Hollis Bradham; nieces and nephews: Kathy Gower (Wayne) Johnson, Michael (Robin) Gower, David (Donell) Gower, Carla Smith (Karl) Wynja, Susan Smith, Larry Moore, Elizabeth Selby Power, and Emily Selby Malott. Several great nieces and nephews also survive.

The Smith family wishes to recognize and sincerely thank all of the nurses, care givers, and other personnel of the Pruitt Health Hospice of Blue Ridge for their tireless care, compassion, and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the First United Methodist Church of Union County or to Pruitt Health Hospice of Blue Ridge, GA.

Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home of Blairsville, GA, in in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be shared at www.cochranmcdaniel.com.

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

01/08/2026

🎉 Happy Birthday, Ronnie Portwood! 🎉

Today, all of us at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home are celebrating a very special member of our community — Ronnie Portwood!

Born in Savannah, Ronnie made Thomaston his home in 1962, and he’s been a steady and caring presence here ever since. He’s a devoted husband to Pamela Joiner Portwood, a proud father of three, “Papa” to seven grandchildren, and a proud great-grandfather to one great grandchild.

Ronnie continues to serve our community through his work on the Upson County Board of Tax Assessors, and he’s a faithful member of Northside Baptist Church. When he’s not busy giving back, you’ll often find him enjoying his passion for coin collecting.

And of course — many families know Ronnie best from his other beloved role… 🎅
For the past twenty-six Christmas seasons, Ronnie has helped bring holiday magic to countless children as Santa Claus!

Ronnie, thank you for the joy, service, and kindness you bring to Thomaston. We hope your birthday is filled with love, laughter, and celebration.

01/01/2026

As we step into a new year, we pause with grateful hearts for the families and community we are honored to serve. The passing of time brings reflection on the love we’ve shared, the memories we hold close, and the ones we carry with us into every new season.

For those who are beginning this year with a heavy heart, please know you are not alone. Grief doesn’t follow a calendar, and it’s okay to feel both hope and heartache at the same time. Our prayer is that God’s peace would surround you, comfort you, and strengthen you in the days ahead.

May the new year bring renewed faith, healing, and gentle reminders that love never ends, it lives on in the lives we’ve touched and the legacy that remains.

From all of us at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home, we wish you a blessed and peaceful New Year!

12/31/2025

Mrs. Joyce Hankinson Perrine

Mrs. Joyce Hankinson Perrine, a loving mother and devoted grandmother, passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025, at Atrium Health Main in Charlotte, North Carolina. She was 80 years old.

Born on October 17, 1945, in Unadilla, Georgia, she was the youngest of seven children and carried with her the warmth and generosity that defined her character. Her educational journey began at Dooly County High School, from which she graduated in the Class of 1963. She earned an Associate Degree in Business from Tift College, paving the way for a prosperous career. Joyce's career was marked by her hard work and entrepreneurial spirit. She displayed her talents early on, cutting hair and sweeping floors at Lottie's Beauty Bar, and she further committed herself to Stevens Tire Company for many years. Her passion led her to become the Owner/Operator of Dairy Queen franchises with one in Byron, Georgia, and two in Commerce, Georgia. At the young age of 60, Joyce semi-retired, but her dedication to her work continued as she served as Secretary/Treasurer of the South East Association of Dairy Queens, a testament to her strong work ethic and leadership qualities.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Joyce was an incredibly talented woman with many hobbies and interests. Her passion for quilt making resulted in beautiful quilts that will be treasured by her family. She was also an excellent cook, and her love for sewing brought joy and comfort into the lives of those she cared for. Joyce was a devoted member of Foot Hills Baptist Church.

Joyce was a beacon of love for her family, always giving and nurturing those around her. Her family remembers her as a steadfast supporter who took care of them unconditionally throughout her life. Joyce is survived by her daughters: Vicki (Creighton Capel) Hankinson, Laura Perrine, Carol (Erik) White, Rhonda (Roger) Davis, and Elizabeth (Adam) Motlik; her sons, David (Mary) Hankinson, Bobby (Angie) Perrine, and Eric (Ashley) Perrine. She is also survived by her 25 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, numerous great-great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her beloved parents, Vester Oliver "Bus" Hannah, Sr. and Janie Pearl Thomaston Hannah, her husbands, Bobby Gene Hankinson and Robert Eugene Perrine, her son, Christopher Durwood Hankinson, her granddaughter, Taylor Krols, and her six siblings.

Funeral services for Joyce will held on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 3:00 PM, at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home. Rev. Ted Kandler will officiate, and interment will follow at Upson Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends on Friday, from 1:00 until 3:00 PM at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home.

Joyce Hankinson Perrine leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering strength, and she will be profoundly missed by all who knew her. Her memory will continue to inspire kindness and generosity in those fortunate enough to have shared in her life.

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

View Mrs. Joyce Hankinson Perrine's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/29/2025

Elder V. Edward McIntyre

Elder V. Edward McIntyre, 87, of Irwinville, Georgia, died Friday, December 12, 2025, at his residence.Funeral services were held 2 PM, Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Frank Primitive Baptist Church in Irwin County, Georgia, with Elder Chad O’Quinn and Elder Greg Phillips officiating. Interment followed in Irwinville Cemetery, Irwinville, with Elder Mike Newman and Elder Paul Thomas officiating.

Elder McIntyre was born April 3, 1938, in Irwin County, Georgia, to the late Neal W., Sr. & Ina Statham McIntyre. He attended elementary school in Irwinville and was a 1956 graduate of Irwin County High School. He graduated from ABAC and later the University of Georgia with a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education. He was a member of two Agricultural Honor Societies while in Athens. His first job after college was teaching Junior High School in Irwin County. He worked as the pilot Young Farmer teacher when the program was established in Berrien County. He returned home to Irwinville and farmed a few years before becoming an inspector with USDA. Elder McIntyre then worked as a vice-president for Production Credit Associates in Ocilla and Tifton before joining The Bank of Fitzgerald as an ag lender, retiring as Vice-President. He answered the call to ministry in 1985 and would serve the Lord as a Primitive Baptist Elder for the next 40 years. He led Primitive Baptist congregations at Henderson Chapel in Holt, Flint River in Thomaston, and finally Frank in Irwin County. He was an avid fisherman and was President of the Ocmulgee Bass Club. His grandchildren called him Pops. He was also a wonderful daddy—and close friends and family called him Snooky. He leaves behind a great legacy of faith, family, love of country, and love of his community. He will also be missed by his sweet fur girl, Ree, his little white Shorkie. He was a member of Frank Primitive Baptist Church and served as Treasurer and contributing writer for the Trumpet of Truth for many years.He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Betty Spicer McIntyre of Irwinville; two daughters: Melinda “Mindy” McHugh & Chip of Madison and Amy O’Quinn & Elder Chad of Irwinville; beloved grandchildren: Dr. Davis McHugh & Kristen, Drew McHugh & Kathryn, Dr. Erin Schleiden & Chaplain (1LT) Randen, US Army, Elisabeth O’Quinn, Dr. Wesley O’Quinn & Morgan, Ellie O’Quinn, John O’Quinn, and Alexander O’Quinn; great-grandchildren, Reece McHugh, Riley Schleiden, Shep Schleiden, and Fitz O’Quinn; and two great-granddaughters on the way: Isla Kate McHugh and Margot Ann McHugh. A sister-in-law, Bobbie Jean McIntyre of Fitzgerald, also survives. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Neal Waldo McIntyre, Jr. and a sister, Vernetta Aiken.The family would like to say a special thanks to everyone at the Anita Stewart Oncology Center, Traditions Hospice, and Abide Home Care.The family suggests those desiring to send memorials may send them to the Primitive Baptist Scholarship Foundation, Inc., c/o Bama Newman, 110 Rutledge Lane, Statesboro GA 30461 or to the Primitive Baptist Library and Archives, contact Elwyn Deal at elwyn36@gmail.com.Paulk Funeral Home, Fitzgerald, is in charge of arrangements.

View Elder V. Edward McIntyre's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.