LANIER

Sidney Arlen Lanier Jr. of Summerville, Georgia, affectionately known as “Butch”, passed away on August 8, 2026 at the age of 71. Mr. Lanier was born to the late Sidney A. (Buddy) Lanier, Sr. and Dora Ann Lanier, who survives.

Butch attended Chattooga County Schools where he played multiple sports and was a stand out athlete. Following high school, he attended Jacksonville State University where he excelled both academically and athletically. He was a First Team All-American third baseman and is recognized as a Jacksonville State University Centennial athlete.

Butch's discipline to his work as an athlete continued to translate into his career of 38 years working at Georgia Power's Plant Hammond where his Compliance Analyst team highlighted him as honest, dedicated and ‘by the book’ when they celebrated his retirementment. Those traits continued as a constant throughout his life as a husband, father, and grandfather. 

In the afternoons following work and on the weekends, Butch was back on the ballfields coaching his son’s many sports teams. His former players still lovingly refer to him as “Coach Butch”.

An avid outdoorsman, Butch enjoyed bird hunting in his youth and many years fishing, especially with family at Lake Weiss, and he could tell you the name of most any tree, type of snake, or bird. This love of the outdoors and animals (especially Golden Retrievers) was passed down to his children and granddaughter. 

On Saturdays in the Fall, you could find Butch wearing “Georgia red” and cheering on the dawgs from home or at Sanford stadium at The University of Georgia, his children’s alma mater. 

Butch was a charter member of First Presbyterian Church PCA and served as a deacon and on various committees. He also served as a commissioner on the Summerville Housing Authority board. 

Some of Butch's most treasured memories in recent years were the time he spent with his granddaughter, Lanier, especially their recent trips to Saint Simons Island. 

His children would want this said about him, even though he would never want this kind of recognition: He was one of the good ones. He was a man of faith. He was a fair man. You never had to question where he stood on matters of right and wrong. He was the backbone of his family and his legacy can be defined by the example he set for others by showing his ‘goodness’ through actions rather than words. 

He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of almost 48 years, Suzann W Lanier; daughter, Alexandra Lanier Sandeford (Jacob); son, Sidney A. Lanier, III; granddaughter, Lanier Sandeford; mother, Dora Ann Lanier; sister, Joanna (Steve) Lively; brothers, Steve (Ginger) Lanier and Scott (Missy) Lanier; many nieces and nephews, and his beloved Golden Retriever, Cooper.

The family will receive friends Monday, August 10th from 1 until 3 P.M. at the Summerville Presbyterian Church, PCA, with a celebration of life service to follow at 3 P.M. with Rev. Bob Eckardt officiating, interment in Summerville Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to First Presbyterian Church PCA in Summerville, Georgia.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Sidney Arlen Lanier Jr.

BLACKWELL

MR. ROBERT ALVIN (BOB) BLACKWELL, age 79, of Summerville, Georgia went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 6, 2026.  He was born January 18, 1947, to the late John and Sara Martin Blackwell.  Mr. Blackwell was retired from the maintenance department of Mohawk Industries.  Bob was hard working, devoted family man, who enjoyed antique stores, old trucks, porch sitting, and tinkering in his shop.  Above all, he loved his family deeply and spent his life helping and sacrificing to make their lives better.  His steady presence, generous heart, and quiet acts of love will be deeply missed.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, the late Dianne Smith Blackwell, his brothers, the late Ralph, Tommy, Ronald, and Bill Blackwell, and a sister, the late Wanda Prather.

Surviving are, daughters, Mary Ann (Donny) Blackwell, Karen (Steve) Odom, and Renee Blackwell; grandchildren, Brittney (Michael) Nicholson, Dustin Blackwell, Erika (Keith) Simmons, Sara Jo Haney, and Jacob (Kayla) Odom; great grandchildren, Jet Johnson, Evie and Molly Nicholson, Dartey Robert and Sutton Blackwell, Sophia and Greyson Simmons, and Cooper Hedgecloth; siblings, Donald (Nancy) Blackwell, Sara Anna (Mike) Stoker, Danny Ray (Christy) Blackwell, and Gary (Teresa) Blackwell; sisters-in-law, Betty Smith and Cindy Cotton; several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 8th, at 2:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Brother Russ Blackwell and Brother Mike Odom officiating, entombment in Greenhills Memory Garden.  Active Pallbearers will be John Blackwell, Rodney Blackwell, Clint Dillard, Luke Blackwell, Donald McGraw, and Terry Green.  The Family will receive friends Saturday from 12:00 noon until 2 :00 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Robert Alvin (Bob) Blackwell, who passed away Thursday.

BIRGE

  MRS. EDITH LEE BIRGE, age 84, of Trion, Georgia, passed away Wednesday afternoon, July 29, 2026, in the local nursing home. She was born in Berryton, Georgia on November 5, 1941, a daughter of the late Odis Lee Ponder and Jewell Houston Chapman Ponder Ledbetter. Mrs. Birge was a homemaker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by twin sons, the late Terry and Jerry Birge and also brothers, the late Robert and the late Alton Ponder.

Surviving are her husband, Rev. Billie Birge; daughter, Melissa (Chris “Corndog”) Hardin; sons, Randy (Sheila) Green, Timothy Ray, and Malcolm (Elaine) Birge; brothers, Vernon (Dean) Ponder and Anthony (Sabrina) Ledbetter; grandchildren, Kellie Green, Randy (Tracy) Green, Benton (Renee) Birge, Sara (Michael) Bumbalough, Kelsey Howell (Jessie Brown), Chloe Ray, Cameron (Cotton) Ray, Dalton Ray, Brian Cronon, Alyssa (Patrick) Strawn; Eleven Great Grandchildren, One Great Great Grandson; several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held Friday, July 31st, at 2:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Steve Collins officiating. Interment will be in West Hill Cemetery. Active Pallbearers will be Timothy Ray, Randy Green, Benton Birge, Cameron Ray, Dalton Ray, and Michael Bumbalough. The Family will receive friends Friday from 1 until 2 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Edith Lee Birge, who passed away Wednesday afternoon.

KIRBY

MR. JAMES EDWARD (ED) KIRBY, age 72, of Sunnydale Road, Summerville, Georgia, passed away Sunday morning, July 26, 2026, in a Rome hospital. A native of Chattooga County, Georgia, He was born on February 14, 1954, to the late Guss and Ruth Cook Kirby. Mr. Kirby was retired from industrial maintenance for Toyoto Tire. In addition to Parents, He was preceded in death by wife, the late Sherry Diane Miller Kirby, and siblings the late Judy Stancil, Scott Kirby, Jack Kirby, and Sue Ragland.

Surviving are sisters, Shirley (Twig) Hatcher, Nancy Brewster, and Nona Gruner; several Nieces and Nephews and beloved pets, Max Kirby and Lucy Kirby.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 2:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Jeremy Stroop officiating, interment in Johnson Cemetery. Active Pallbearers Allen Keen, Chase Lively, Joseph Griffin, Jeff Keen, Ty Hutchins, and Travis Stacy; Honorary Pallbearer, Denver Martin. The Family will receive friends Wednesday from 1 until 2 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. James Edward (Ed) Kirby who passed away Sunday.

ALLEN

MRS. GAIL ALLEN, age 88, of Unity Church Road, Summerville, Georgia, passed away Sunday morning, July 12, 2026, in a Rome hospital. A native of Sylva, N. C. , She was born to the late Willie E. and Bertha Cline Painter on May 31, 1938. Mrs. Allen was a member of the Summerville First United Methodist Church, was a RNFMP-Nurse Practitioner for over 50 years, was the first Nurse Practitioner in the State of Georgia, and for many years worked in health care in Chattooga County and surrounding area. In addition to Parents, She was preceded in death by husband, the late Jack Bryant Allen, Sr., granddaughter, the late Jacklyn Allen, and brother, the late Eldridge Painter.

Surviving are sons, Jack Bryant Allen, Jr. (Martha Prince Allen) and William Michael Allen (Johnna Allen); sister, Margaret Clark; grandchildren, Elizabeth Allen, Krista Joyner (Blake Joyner), and John Allen; great grandchildren, Madeline and Remington Joyner; Nieces and Nephews.

Memorial service will be held Thursday, July 16th, at 2:00 P.M. from the Summerville First United Methodist Church with Rev. John Wesley Privett officiating, Interment in Bethel Cemetery. The Family will receive friends at Earle Rainwater Funeral Home Wednesday from 6 until 8 P.M. and Thursday at the Church from 1:00 until 2:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers the Family suggest contributions to the Summerville First United Methodist Church.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Gail Allen who passed away Sunday.

NANCE

MR. PAUL ALEXANDER NANCE, age 58, of Martin Street, Summerville, Georgia, passed away unexpectedly July 6, 2026 in Richmond, Virginia. A native of Kansas City, Mo., He was born on March 26, 1968, a son of James Arthur Nance and Donna Inlow Nance. Mr. Nance served in the U. S. Army National Guard in Indiana and was a Truck Driver for Western Express.

Surviving are His wife, Debbie Edgeworth Nance; daughters, Tomi (Joie) Nance, Terri Raison, Jessie (Chris) Secrest, Bobbie Savory, and Heather Carmicheal; mother, Donna Jackson; sister, Mecinda (Jason) Baker and Becca (Earnie) Nichols; brothers, Chris (Amber) Horn and Daryle Jackson; several Grandchildren, Nieces, and Nephews also survive.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, July 18th, at 2:00 P.M. from ther J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home, with Paul Bice officiating. Honorary Pallbearers Memphis Marmet, Dakota Lively, Jace Goodson, Michael Blackmon, and Kenny Edgeworth. The Family will receive friends Saturday from 1 until 2 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Paul Alexander Nance.

MORGAN

MR. DENNIS RAY MORGAN, age 66, of Summerville, Georgia, passed away Tuesday morning, July 7, 2026, at his residence. Mr. Morgan was born in Summerville, Georgia on May 16, 1960, to the late Harvey B. and Boneida Peterson Morgan. He was a Veteran of the U. S. Air Force and a truck driver for Swift Transportation. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, the late Daniel Morgan and grandson, the late Nick Litchfield.

Surviving are daughters, Amanda Driver and Jessica Miller; son, Matthew (Matt) Morgan; sister, Kathy Morgan; brothers, Harvey (Butch) Morgan, Bill Morgan, and David Morgan; grandchildren, Gavin Morgan, Brodie Morgan, D. J. Litchfield, Alexis Morgan, Megan Driver, Alyssa Katelyn Phillips, Sara Driver, and Nikki Litchfield; great grandchildren, Ke’ziah Balao and Maverick Phillips; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 11th, at 11:00 a.m. from the United Christian Fellowship, with Rev. Gary Howell officiating, interment in Summerville Cemetery.  Active Pallbearers will be  Charles Miller, Joseph Litchfield, Gavin Morgan, Jacob Phillips, Nathan Green, and James Dover.  The Family will receive friends Saturday from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. at the church.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements for Mr. Dennis Ray Morgan, who passed away Tuesday.

GRIMES

      

MS. JACKIE HAMMONDS GRIMES, age 66, of Gaylesville, Alabama, formerly of Chattooga County, passed away Wednesday, July 1, 2026, in a Rome hospital. She was born in Summerville, Georgia on January 27, 1960 to the late Fletcher Charles and Jennett Fraiser Hammonds. Ms. Grimes was a Homemaker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, the late Mickey Hammonds, former husband the late Michael Grimes, and nephew the late Chuck Hammonds.

Surviving are daughter, Robin Womack; son, Cody Grimes; brothers, Ricky (Pam) Hammonds and Jerry (Anita) Hammonds; grandchildren, Justice Rich, Aubrie Rich, Joey Rich, and Chance Womack; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Friday, July 3, 2026 from the graveside at Lebanon Cemetery with Steve McGill officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 12:00 noon until 2 p.m. at Earle Rainwater Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Ms. Jackie Hammonds Grimes.

DEAN

MR. JERRY DAVID DEAN, JR., age 64, of Hill Street, Summerville, Georgia, passed away Wednesday morning, June 24, 2026, at his residence following an extended illness. A native of Chattooga County, He was born on August 1, 1961 to the late Jerry David Dean, Sr. and Laura Hill Dean. David was a AUTOCAD Engineer and a Veteran of the U. S. Army.

Surviving are daughters, Sherie’ (Tim) Bryan, Samantha Dean, (Brad), and Rachel Dean; brother Michael (Stacy) Dean; grandchildren, Kristefer Hoodlet, Elena Ledford, Addison Ledford, and Katherine Brown; nephews, Matthew Dean and Ethan Dean.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 1, 2026, from the United Christian Fellowship at 1:00 P.M.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

CARTER

MR. JAMES HARDY (JAMIE) CARTER, age 55, of Carter Road, Menlo, Georgia, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at his residence. Born in Summerville, Georgia on March 1, 1971, a son of the late Judy Gale Bryan Carter and George (Gene) Carter, who survives. He was a Mechanic by trade. In addition to His Mother, was preceded in death by brothers the late Britt Carter and George Carter, Jr.

Surviving are His children, Bailee Carter, Amber Lemming,Tori -Wyatt, and Dylan Carter; father, George (Gene) Carter; sisters, Lisa -Cordell and Jill Spears; Eleven Grandchildren; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Memorial service will be held Tuesday, June 23rd, at 7:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Sammy Barrett officiating. The Family will receive friends Tuesday from 6 until 7 P.M. Tuesday.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. James Hardy (Jamie) Carter.

HAMBY

Mrs. Frances Lucille (Hix) Hamby of Summerville GA passed away on June 15, 2026 at the age of 87. Mrs. Hamby was born in Trion, GA on January 1, 1939 to the late Claude and Jewell Hix. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Edwin Hill Hamby, her sister, Claudia Wofford Dixon and her grandson, Christopher Luke Grogan.

Surviving are her daughters, Fonda Hamby Morgan (Dwight), Sonya Hamby Dixon (Ronnie), and Kimberly Hamby Grogan (Tim), 8 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren, niece Christal Wofford and several other nieces and nephews.

Lucille took interest in sewing and cooking at an early age and became a loving homemaker,wife and mother. She enjoyed traveling and her most memorable trips were to Alaska, England and Hawaii. Later in life she became an entrepreneur and over the years opened several stores in Summerville. She was owner of Balloons Unlimited, Lucille’s Twist and Shake and Granny’s Trunk. She is a believer and a member of the Summerville First United Methodist Church and served as a member of the choir for many years where she loved singing. She enjoyed spending time with her friends, new and old, and building friendships with fellow breast cancer survivors in the community, but she most enjoyed being surrounded by her daughters and numerous grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at the Summerville First United Methodist Church on Friday June 19, 2026 with visitation from 4pm-6pm followed by the funeral at 6pm with the Reverend John Wesley Privett officiating. Interment in Garrett Cemetery. Pallbearers are grandsons Josh Morgan, Zac Morgan, Chris Cope, Ian Johnstone, Tony Tortora, TJ Grogan and Nick Henson.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

COOPER

MR. WILLIAM F. COOPER, age 73, of Jacksonville, Florida, formerly of Chattooga County, passed away Monday morning, June 8, 2026, in Jacksonville, Florida. He was born in New Jersey on March 6, 1953 to the late Raymond W. and Gladys Louise Crabtree Cooper. In addition to Parents, William was preceded in death by a brother, the late Jerry Cooper and a niece the late Mary Burrage.

Surviving are sisters, Faye Cooper and Shirley (Michael) Herring; brothers, Wayne (Essie) Cooper, Clayton Cooper, and Sherman Cooper; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral and interment services will be held Friday, June 12th, at 2:00 P.M. from Graveside in Silver Hill Cemetery with Rev. Wayne Cooper officiating. Active Pallbearers Kenneth ooper, Kenny Cooper, Mike Deaver, Cody Parker, Michael Herring, and Jason Cooper. Vistitation will be Friday from 12:30 until 1:30 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in in charge of arrangements for Mr. William F. Cooper, who passed away Monday.

WHALEY

MRS. DEBORAH KAYE WHALEY, age 69, of Summerville, Georgia, passed away Wednesday, June 3, 2026, in a Rome hospital. A native of Chattooga County, She was born on February 6, 1957 to the late Charles Mitchell and Wanda Jean Smith who survives.

Surviving are Her mother, Wanda Jean Smith; son, Donavon Whaley; brother, Danny Wooten; grandchildren, Dalay Whaley, Gavyn Whaley, and Bransen Whaley; several Nieces and Nephews.

The Family will receive friends Saturday, June 6th, from 11:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. at Earle Rainwater Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

SCHLICHT

Opal Schlicht-- mom, nana, nurse, sister, and friend, wore many hats in her lifetime, and she carried each one with grace, compassion, and strength. She was born on September 15, 1950, in Kansas City, Missouri, to a mother who believed she would never be able to have children. Needless to say, Mom came into this world as a miracle, and the world will not be the same without her. She left us peacefully on May 30, 2026, with family by her side, to find complete healing in her Heavenly home.

From as early as she could remember, Opal knew she wanted to be a nurse, and that is exactly what she did, faithfully serving others until she was physically unable to continue. The number of lives she touched throughout her nursing career is immeasurable. She truly was the hands and feet of Jesus wherever she went.

Her journey in nursing began at just 13 years old as a candy striper and grew into a lifelong calling that took her through many areas of care, from labor and delivery to education. She ended her career in a role that meant so much to her, serving as a school nurse. She loved working with children and was always ready to offer one of her famous “Nana hugs,” a comfort that seemed to heal more than any medicine ever could.

She leaves behind a beautiful and lasting family legacy. She was preceded in death by her parents Thomas and Rose Harris, her husband, James Schlicht, who passed away in 1991, and later by her husband, David Fleming, who passed in 1999.

She is lovingly remembered by her four children and their families: her daughter Rebecca Gurley and son-in-law Jerry Gurley, along with their three children, Abigail, Samuel, and Zachary; her daughter Megan Farrow and son-in-law Cory Farrow, and their three children, Peyton, Aiden, and Zion; her son David “Mack” Schlicht; and her son John Schlicht, daughter-in-law Ashlyn, and their two children, Elliason and Lilliana.

In addition, she leaves behind her sister, Barbara Miller, her brother, Thomas Harris, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

In honor of the legacy Opal leaves behind, the Family ask that all nurses wear their scrubs to the service. If you knew her, you know how much she loved her scrubs.

Memorial service will be held Tuesday, June 2nd, at 2:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Callette Hollingsworth officiating; the Northwest Georgia Nurses Honor Guard will perform the Nightingale Tribute and Last Call of Duty.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

HOWARD

MRS. LINDA SUE HOWARD, age 83, of Neal Gap Road, Summerville, Georgia, passed away April 2, 2026, in a Rome hospital. Born in Stevenson, Alabama on January 29, 1943, She was a daughter of the late Clifton Nevels and Russie Ridley. She was retired retail Salesperson and was preceded in death by her parents, husband, the late Otis Lee (Coon) Howard and a brother the late Carl Nevels.

Surviving are daughter, Susan Moody; son, Richard Weir; sister, Willie Jo (John) Isenberg; brother, Gene (Dot) Ridley; granddaughter, Ashlyn Moody; aunt, Margaret Henderson; several Nieces, Nephews, and Cousins also survive.


Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Linda Sue Howard who passed away April 2, 2026.

RAGLAND

ELIZABETH MONTRAY RAGLAND, age 27, of Sturdivant Drive, Summerville, Georgia, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, April 23, 2026, in an Augusta, Georgia hospital. She was born July 23, 1998 in Rome, Georgia.

Surviving are mother, Tina Beth Ragland; step father, Jay (Lola) Ledford; children, William Ragland, Jeremy Padgett, Elizabeth Ruelas, Chase Padgett, and Casey Marie Rowan; companion, Loyle Rowan; sisters, Maryssa Freeman and Kayla Day; brothers, Dakota Bain and Michael Ledford; several Aunts, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews, and Cousins.

Funeral services will be held Friday, May 1, 2026 at 11 a.m. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Rev. Ray Caldwell officiating. Interment will be in Johnson Cemetery. Active Pallbearers will be Nathan Fincher, Teddy Freeman, Jayden Ledford, Cody Bain, Simon Ruelas and Levi Naillion. Visitation will be Friday from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

KEITH

MRS. BEULAH LENA WOODS KEITH, age 88, of Mentone, Alabama, passed away Thursday morning, April 23, 2026, in a Centre, Alabama care facility. A native of Summerville, Georgia, She was born to the late Alfred James and Mary Lou Cherry Woods on April 11, 1938. Mrs. Keith was a member of Chesterfield Baptist Church, retired from Best Mfg. Company. In addition to Parents, She was preceded in death by her brother, the late Tommy Woods.

Surviving are Her husband, Charles Roger Keith; daughter, Carol (Jamie) Chesnut; son, Brian (Jennifer) Keith; grandchildren, Steven (Sumer) Chesnut, Beth (Adrian) Flora, and Samantha Keith; great grandchildren, Lizzy Chesnut and Gus Chesnut; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 28th, at 2:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home, with Rev. Steve Bishop, Rev. Robert Ammons, and Rev. Mark Evans officiating, interment in Cloudland Presbyterian Cemetery. Active Pallbearers Scott Howard, Steven Chesnut, Brian Keith, Adrian Flora, Bobby Cavin, and Gwynne Brown; Honorary Pallbearers, Jamie Chesnut, James Johnson, Ryan Willingham, Bobby Edgeworth, Richard Gifford, and Staff of Cherokee Health and Rehab Center. The Family will receive friends Tuesday, April 28th, from 12:00 noon until 2:00 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Beulah Lena Woods Keith, who passed away Thursday, April 23rd.

DODD

MR. JOHN KELLY DODD, age 56, of Allen Street, Summerville, Georgia, passed away Saturday, April 11, 2026. Born in Rome, Georgia on June 20, 1969, He was a son of the late Albert Preston and Sharon Croft Dodd. He was a plumber by trade.

Surviving are sons, John Preston Dodd and Gregory Logan Dodd; sister, Angie Dodd; brothers, Stephen Dodd, Bryant Dodd, Danny Dodd, and Paul Dodd; grandchildren, Henry Logan Dodd and Jenna Morgan Dodd; several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 16th, at 11:00 A.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Chris Spear and Pastor Randy Taylor officiating, interment in Lyerly Cemetery. Active Pallbearers are John Preston Dodd, Gregory Logan Dodd, Stephen Dodd, Bryant Dodd, Danny Dodd, and Paul Dodd. Visitation will be Thursday from 10 until 11 A.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. John Kelly Dodd, who passed away April 11th.

COMER

 MRS. SHIRLEY ANN NEWSOME COMER, age 76, passed away peacefully at her home in Ellerslie, Georgia, on April 4, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. Her daughter and granddaughter were by her side at the time of her passing. She was born to the late Nellie and Henry Newsome on August 18, 1949 in Phenix City, Alabama. In addition to Parents, She was preceded in death by two brothers the late Tony Newsome and Henry Newsome, Jr. Shirley attended Jordan High School in Columbus, Georgia; later worked at John Wesley Villas in Macon, and later at Walmart in Trion. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures; shopping at Goodwill, cooking for others and making sure everyone around her felt cared for. She was a member of Jimmy Swaggart Ministries and held a deep love for her faith. She also had a special love for Elvis Presley.

Surviving are children, Kimberly (John) Boberg, Larry Griffin, and Gaynelle Griffin; grandchildren Hannah (Jeff) Miller, John (CJ) Colbert, and Lily Griffin; great grandchildren, Gracie, Nova, Nora, Ava and special great grandson, Leland Colbert; siblings, Juanita Underwood, Vickie Newsome, and Shannon Newsome; several Nieces and Nephews.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, April 14th, at 4:00 P.M. at the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Rev. Harold Helton officiating. The Family will receive friends Tuesday from 3 until 4 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Shirley- Ann Newsome Comer, who passed away April 4, 2026.

HUNTER

MR. JAMES HENRY (JIM) HUNTER, age 99, of Gore Community, Summerville, Georgia, passed away Thursday, April 2, 2026, at His residence. A native Chattooga Countian, He was born to the late Robert Glenn and Daisy Garner Hunter, on October 19, 1926. Mr. Hunter was a member and Deacon of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church and was President and co-founder of Hunter Furniture Company and Fruit Stand on U.S. 27 in Gore. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by wife, the late Martha Speer Hunter, a son, the late James Robert Hunter, grandson, the late John Clinton Hunter, II, Four Sisters and Four Brothers.

Surviving are son and daughter-in-law, Clint and Kristie Hunter; grandchildren, Emily Hunter, Megan Hunter, Clancey and Calen Cooper; great grandchildren, Elsie Quinn and Ella Cooper, Dakyota and Clyde Allen; nieces, Ann and Bill Kuzniak, Martha Goodman; brother-in-law, Jerry Speer; special friends, Pam Hammonds, Abby Bynum, and Tracey Reynolds.

Funeral service will be held Monday, April 6, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. from the Pleasant Grove Baptisit Church with Pastor James Baird and Pastor Charles Bishop officiating, interment in the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Cemetery. Active Pallbearers will be Jack Owings, Bengie Price, Charlie Lowry, David Spurgeon, Daniel Collins and Calen Cooper. Honorary Pallbearers Mildred McGraw, Jimmy Barron, Greg Shaw, Larry Weesner, and Ross Lowry. Visitation will be held Monday from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers the Family suggest contributions to the Pleasant Grove Cemetery Fund, c/o Pam Hammonds, #204 Congress Street, Summerville, Georgia-30747.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. James Henry Hunter who passed away on Thursday.

DEAN

MR. THOMAS JEFFERSON DEAN, II, age 63, of Cedar Bluff, Alabama, passed away Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at His residence following an extended illness, Mr. Dean was born May 20, 1962, to the late Charles Thomas Dean and Faye Ellen Dotson Dean, who survives. He was a member of Local #22 Carpenters Union and Baptist by Faith. In addition to his Father, he was preceded in death by a son, the late Thomas Jefferson Dean, III, a sister, Chrystal Dean Hicks, and a brother, the late Ricky Smith.

Surviving are daughters, Denise Jones and Christy Dean; mother, Faye Ellen Dean; sister, Tonya Dean; former wife, Kim Dean.

Funeral and interment services will be held Saturday, April 4th, at 11:00 A.M. EST from the Silver Hill Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Steve Scoggins officiating. Mr. Dean will be in state at his residence, #800 County Road #199 Cedar Bluff, Alabama after 5:00 P.M. EST Thursday.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Thomas Jefferson Dean, II, who passed away Wednesday.

CARROLL

MR. JAMES A. (ROE) CARROLL, age 75, of Ellenburg Subdivision, Summerville, Georgia, passed away Friday evening in a Rome hospital. He was born to the late Arlen B. and Dalton Bowling Carroll on November 1, 1950 in Alma, Georgia. James was Church of God by Faith and was retired Supervisor of Wash Line for Mohawk Mills after several years of service. In addition to Parents, He was preceded in death by his wife, the late Deborah (Debbie) Lynn Carroll on January 4, 2023, sister-Janice Heaven, brother, Larry Carroll; great grandson, Asher Carroll; nieces and nephews, Amanda Carroll, Bruce Carroll, Brad Carroll, David Carroll, and Elena Carroll.

Surviving are daughter, Alicia (Reuben) Brock; sons, Jason Carroll and Clay (Mamie) Carroll; sister, Della Carroll; brother-in-law & Special Friend, Debo Busby; grandchildren, Kevi Carroll, Chase Carroll, Adam Ludy, Brookly Brock, Taylor Carroll, Analisha Bartlett, Andrew Bartlett; several Great Grandchildren; several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 31st, at 2:00 P.M. in the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Rev. Andy Hutchins officiating, interment in Summerville Cemetery. Active Pallbearers will be Andrew Bartlett, Takeivious Carroll, Chase Carroll, Adam Ludy, Taylor Carroll, and Wanya Merrills. Visitation will be Tuesday from 12 noon until 2 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. James (Roe) Carroll who passed away Friday evening.

JARRELLS

MR. JACKY JARRELLS, age 70, of Back Penn Road, Summerville, Georgia, passed away Monday morning, March 23, 2026, in a Rome hospital following an illness. He was born on September 11, 1955 in Welch, West Virginia to the late Morton and Edna Canada Jarrells. Mr. Jarrells was retired mechanic for Smith Iron Works. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings, the late Larry Jarrells, James Jarrells, and Patricia McMillon; girl friend, the late Phyllis Coleman.

Surviving are sons, Robert (Jennifer) Jarrells, Jackie (Tubby) Jarrells, Phillip (Kristta) Jarrells, Elmer (Tammy Crews), Jarrells, Chris (Juanita) Reed, Tressie (Priscilla) Johnson; grandchildren, Jayden & Jaysten Jarrells, Jousha & Tabbie Jarrells, Isabell & Jeremiah Crews.

Visitation will be Wednesday, March 25th, from 4 until 6 P.M. at Earle Rainwater Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Jacky Jerrells.

SCHRADER

MR. DANNY LAMAR SCHRADER, age 71, of Ridge Street, Menlo, Georgia, passed away Friday March 6, 2026 in a Lafayette Nursing facility. He was born in Lafayette, Georgia on November 15, 1954, son of the late Melvin and Mary Parker Trammell who survives. He was a member of the National Guard and worked as a Security Guard for Mt. Vernon Mills.

Surviving are his mother, Mary Parker Trammell; siblings, Elaine Kellar, Randall, Wilson, Phillip Trammell, Winston Trammell, Labron Trammell, Jeffery Trammell and Mark Trammell; several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service was held Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 1 p.m. from the Lyerly Cemetery, with Rev. Harold Helton officiating.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements for Mr. Danny Lamar Schrader.

CARTER

MR. JERRY CARTER, age 74, of Summerville Georgia passed away Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at his residence. He was born on February 4, 1952 in Chattooga County, son of the late Simon David and Nellie Carolyn Bennett Carter. Mr. Carter served in the United States Army and afterward was a Carpet Inspector by trade until his retirement.

Surviving are his son, Jerry L. Carter; sisters, Carolyn Steifel and Mary Nell Duke; brothers, David Carter and Paul Carter; special friend, Jannie Carter; nieces and nephews.

There will be no formal service.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements for Mr. Jerry Carter.

RACKLEY

MR. JEFFERY LAWRENCE (JEFF) RACKLEY, age 61, of Cedar Bluff, Alabama, passed away February 23, 2026, in AH Floyd Cherokee Medical Center, Centre, Alabama. He was born in Marietta, Georgia on April 2, 1964 to the late J. L. and Susan Nix Rackley. Mr. Rackley was a self-employed plumber.

Surviving are sister, Miki R. Tilson; daughter, Harmony Sue Rackley; fiancée, Davita Pendergrass; step sons, Mark Taylor, Davin Roberts, Christopher Ward; step daughter, Nikki Vann; nieces and nephews; Jessica, Megan, John, Tristan, Leeland, Graceon, Landon, Maren; aunt, Pat Nix.

Memorial service will be held Saturday, March 7th, at 3:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home, with Pastor Paul Martin officiating.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Jeffery Lawrence (Jeff) Rackley who passed away February 23rd.

PIERCE

MR JAMES MONROE PIERCE, age 61, of Summerville, Georgia passed away Thursday, February 19, 2026 at a Rome hospital. He was born on March 9th, 1964 in Fort Payne, Alabama, a son of the late Elmer and Margie Eller Pierce. In addition to his parents, Mr. Pierce was preceded in death by a son in-law Mr. Josh Hines and a Grandson Mr. Christopher Chapman. He was a retired small engine repairman.

Surviving include his wife Mrs. Alisha Pierce, daughters, Deanna Hines and Cheyenne Nichols (Ryan Pierce), sons Christopher (Veronica) Pierce, Daniel (Crystal) Pierce, and Jonathon Nichols. Grandchildren Alexis Sluder, Jordyn Sluder (Brycen Hunt), Trinity Sluder (Chance Canada), Daye Nutter, Chloe Pierce, Aubrey Pierce, Ashton Pierce, Adian Pierce, Jameson Pierce, and Thomas Davis and three Great Grandchildren, Tyson, Vada and River, Brothers Stephenson Pierce and Dewayne Pierce and sisters Carolyn (Noel) Johnson and Debbie (Frankie) Majors. Several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services for Mr. Pierce will be held on Saturday, February 28th at 2PM from the J.D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home. The Rev. Chris Nixon officiating and interment in the Summerville Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jonathan Nellenboch, Jeremy Spears, Ryan Pierce, Carson Keen, Steve Fowler, and Chance Canada. The Family will receive friends Saturday starting at 1PM until the time of the service, at the funeral home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements for Mr. James Monroe Pierce.

TAYLOR

RACHEL SOUTHERLAND TAYLOR, age 94, of Trion, Georgia passed away Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at her residence. She was born November 8, 1931 in Ellijay, Georgia a daughter of the late Pola and Lola Holt Southerland. In addition to her parents, Rachel was preceded in death by her first husband, the late J. C. Fletcher; second husband, the late Bill Taylor; daughter, the late Rebecca Fletcher; son-Joel Fletcher; brothers, the late Robert Southerland, the late Wayne Southerland, and the late Lowell (Sonny) Southerland; sisters, the late Betty Denmark and the late Elaine Adams. She was retired from Riegel Textile Corp. rebeaming department and was a member of Pleasant Grove Church of Christ.

Surviving include her sons and daughters in law, Tim (Carol) Fletcher, David (Linda) Fletcher, Steve (Becky) Fletcher, daughters and sons in law, Donna Fletcher and Gayle (Todd) VanEtten; nine grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren and one great great grandchild; sisters, Cleo Woodring and Eileen Freeman; several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 1 p.m. from the J.D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Minister Hugh Glaze officiating, interment in Berea Cemetery. Active Pallbearers will be Jeremy Fletcher, Matt Fletcher, Zack Fletcher, Clayton Fletcher, Parker Fletcher, Jake Singletary and James Martin. Honorary Pallbearers will be the Staff at Fresenius Dialysis Center in Pennville and Members of Pleasant Grove Church of Christ. The family will receive friends Saturday from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Rachel Southerland Taylor.

CORDELL

 MR. EUGENE CORDELL, age 73, of East Washington Street, Summerville, Georgia, passed away Tuesday morning, February 10, 2026, at His residence. He was born in Chattooga County Georgia July 12, 1952 to the late Manuel H. Cordell and Mary Lou Smith Cordell. Mr. Cordell was a member of the Pennville First Baptist Church and was Superintendent for the Chattooga County Water District.

Surviving are His wife, Peggy Gilreath Cordell; daughter, Laura (Rick) Gann; son, Dustin E. (Melissa) Cordell; sister, Donnie Sue Brown; grandchildren, Maddie Wells, Caden Cordell, Gatlin Cordell, Gillian Gann, Axl Gann, and Ezra Gann; Best Friend, His Golden Retriever “Hemingway”; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Friday, February 13th, at 11:00 A.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home, with Rev. Ralph Sumner, Rev. Tim Evans, and Minister Barry Gilreath, Jr. officiating, interment in Macedonia Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Caden Cordell, Garlin Cordell, Mike Rutledge, Tim Allen, Jerry Lathem, Greg Martin, Jerry Pollard, Bear Brown, Jacob Brown, Marlon Barrett, Rex Evans, Wayne Weaver, Mike Frost, Ricky Hammonds, Robbie Lathem, Adam Lathem, Scott Clements, and Jamey Hughes, Tyler Gilreath, Barry Gilreath, III and Luke Tanner.   The Family will receive friends Thursday from 5 until 8 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements for Mr. Eugene Cordell, who passed away Tuesday.

TIMMONS

MRS. NELL CAROLYN TIMMONS, age 80, of Burton Road-Mountain View Community, Trion; passed away peacefully Sunday evening surrounded by Her Loving Family. She was born in Trion, Georgia on February 16, 1945, to the late William A. (Bill) Rich and Pearl Daisey Potts Rich. She was a member of the Summerville Pentecostal Worship Center and was a retired CNA for Oakview Nursing & Rehab Center. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by husband, Arlie T. Timmons, sisters, Dorothy Heart Rich and Rose Phelps, brothers, William Rich, Lamar Rich, and Fred Rich. Nell was first and foremost a child of God. She loved to serve the Lord and did so in various ways. From faithfully attending Church, to singing and ministry in jails. She was married to the love of her life, Arlie, and enjoyed every moment with him. Her prayers were answered when he gave his life to the Lord and they were able to share that Hope together. Prayer was a true way of life for Nell. She was honored by God to see her only child as well as her grandchildren come to faith in Jesus. Her faithful prayers covered her family, brothers, sisters, and her patients at the Nursing Home. She diligently cared for and loved those on her job. Nell was steadfast in faith, love, and hope. She carried a heavy mantle as matriarch of her family. She will be missed, is dearly loved, and is now seeing her blessed Savior face to face.

Surviving are daughter, Sharon Timmons; sister, Patricia Westbrook; brother, Charles (Shiela) Rich; grandchildren, Ginger (Brian) Jenkins and Arlie John Smith; great grandchildren, Elaina Smith, Christian McWhorter, Selah Jenkins, and Arabella Smith; several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, February 12th, at 3:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Andy Hutchins and Pastor Ralph McWhorter officiating, interment in West Hill Cemetery. Active Pallbearers Arlie Smith, Ginger Jenkins, Brian Jenkins, Christian McWhorter, Tony Rich, and John Smith; Honorary Pallbearers, Charles Rich, members of Summerville Pentecostal Worship Center, and Staff of Hearth Hospice. Visitation will be Wednesday from 6 until 8 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Nell Carolyn Timmons.

WORSHAM

MRS. KAY WORSHAM, age 83 of Summerville, Georgia passed away Thursday, February 5, 2025 at her residence surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Trion, Georgia to the late Ralph Henry Housch and Mary Elizabeth Betty Tribble Housch on May 3, 1942. She was retired Home Economics for Chattooga County High School, a member of Pennville Church of Christ, and in addition to Parents, was preceded in death by her husband the late William C. (Bill) Worsham and a sister the late Ann Brooks.

Surviving are her daughter, Laura Graham; son, Jeremy (Brenda) Worsham; grandchildren, Jay (Kaylee) Williams, Wendy (Tripp) Worsham, Jud Williams, and Kylin Graham; great granddaughter, Whitlee Williams; sister, Jane (Jim) Parker; brother, Dale (Honey) Housch; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 7th, at 1:00 P.M. from the Pennville Church of Christ with Ministers Robby Eversole and Brad Hayes officiating, interment in Greenhills Memory Garden. Active Pallbearers David Parker, Derek Parker, Charles Cooper, Noah McQuese, Ben Housch, Erick Housch, and Eli McQuese. The Family will receive friends Friday from 5 until 8 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Kay Worsham who passed away Thursday morning.

SIMPSON

 

MR. BRANDON DWAYNE SIMPSON, 36 of Cedar Bluff, Alabama passed away unexpectedly, February 1, 2026 at his residence.  He was born in Ft. Oglethorpe, Georgia, April 21, 1989, son of Roger Brewster and Donna Kay Simpson.  Brandon was a General Contractor by trade.

 

Brandon was larger than life. To know him was to love him and to love him meant you were going to laugh. And laugh, we did, often and loudly.  Brandon always had a story to tell and never met a stranger.  If you bumped into Brandon at the grocery store, you walked out 45 minutes later feeling like you’d just reconnected with an old friend. Brandon loved his family, he loved his wife and kids and was always up for an adventure whether it was shopping for furniture or riding across a snowy mountain rescuing others who had gotten stuck.  Brandon was one of a kind, there will never be another like him.  If Brandon loved you, he loved you with a fierceness like no other. His wife, Courtney, was his best friend and he was her rock. A love like theirs is a once in a lifetime kind of love, the kind of love that makes you crazy in all the best ways. That kind of love never dies. The love they shared filled their lives with so much joy, they enjoyed every moment together and no moment was too small to be celebrated together.  Although Preston and Sarah may not have shared Brandon’s last name, he loved them deeply as his own and was so proud of everything they did from Sarah’s pageants and color guard to Preston graduating high school and entering a trade. His eyes twinkled when he bragged on their kids, he was so excited to watch them grow and thrive. Brandon loved to talk, anyone that knew him knew a conversation could last anywhere from 5 minutes to 5 hours. And more than likely, it was going to be 5 hours.  He loved to talk about his family, his wife, his kids, his nephews and his nieces, he was so very proud of every one of them and he loved to brag on all of their accomplishments. You could hear the love and pride in his voice as he’d tell you about their grades, their sports accomplishments, their jobs or even the work they were doing on a project car. His nephews and his nieces hung the moon if you ever asked Brandon and he kept them all laughing with little inside jokes and nicknames. They all loved Uncle Brandon just as much as he loved them. Brandon was a true Mama’s boy, looking at Brandon and his mom, you felt like you were looking at twins. There were very few days that went by that Brandon didn’t call his Mom.  He usually called just to chat about his day and to make plans for the weekend.  Brandon was always on the hunt for a good place to eat and his Mom, Roger and the rest of the family were always along for the ride.  You could see the line of jeeps driving anywhere from 20 minutes to 2 hours for a good bite.  

 

The memories made along the way were always way better than the food, and the food was pretty dang good. Those memories of a Mother and her Son will live on forever.  Brandon’s PawPaw was his idol, he spent his youth all the way up to adulthood admiring everything about his PawPaw.  If you ever got to hear any of his childhood stories growing up with his PawPaw, you were in for a treat because they always came with a good laugh and usually a lesson learned. Brandon strived daily to be more like the man he admired so greatly, one comfort that can be found is 

knowing that Brandon has reunited with his PawPaw and oh the stories he’s probably filling his PawPaw’s ear with. Weekends and summer were Brandon’s favorite, he loved being in or near the water or cruising with the top off of their jeep. The stories that jeep could tell, trips to the mountains, the beach, the lake or the river with his wife, kids and extended family. There was no better time than standing beside a grill with Brandon, watching the kids play in the water and a good, classic country song in the background. If Brandon gets to pick his spot in Heaven, I just know a river runs through it.  Brandon will be so deeply missed by his family. The memory of his laugh which was so contagious will help his family through the days, weeks and years to come.  If Brandon was laughing, everyone around him was laughing, that was a guarantee.  He had a laugh that carried through the entire room no matter how full it was and his personality demanded attention. You wanted to hear his stories because they were always good ones, so good that sometimes you questioned their authenticity just to find out later on, the details were spot on. 

 

To know Brandon was to love him and oh, how we all loved him. We will miss him as much as we loved him and the love that Brandon and his entire family share is too great to be measured.  If Brandon was here, I’m sure he wouldn’t want us to cry but that’s impossible.  As Chaplin Robert Orr said, “Where there is deep grief, there is great love.” Brandon will live on through every life he touched, through every “Only Brandon” story that we will tell over the years, through the love that we all shared that binds us together even in these most difficult moments.  Brandon may not physically be here with us any longer but his laugh and his love will always remain in every single one of us.  So, tell the tales, relive the moments and always laugh…often and loudly and always for Brandon.

 

 

Surviving are his wife, Courtney Simpson; mother Donna Kay Simpson, father-Roger Brewster; children, Preston Wooten, and Sarah Thomas; sister, Nicole White and Mandy Bowman (Kyle Moore).

 

 

Funeral Services will be held Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at 2 p.m. from the J.D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with family members and friends sharing cherished memories; interment in Dixon Chapel Cemetery, Gaylesville, Alabama.  Active Pallbearers will be Justin Fletcher, Eric Willingham, Todd White, Brandon Hollis, Alan Simpson, Aaron Green, Preston Wooten, and Blake Fletcher.  Honorary Pallbearers will be Ricky Simpson, Matthew Kinnamont, Aiden Fletcher, Andrew Kinnamont, James Gilliland, Glenn Fletcher, Ryan Fletcher, Matt Veatch and Jeff Simpson.  Visitation will be held from 12 noon until 2 p.m. at the Funeral Home.

 

 

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements for Mr. Brandon Dwayne Simpson who passed away Sunday.

CAMPBELL

MRS. DEBRA DARLENE CAMPBELL, 67 of Anniston Alabama passed away, Sunday February 1, 2026 at her residence. She was born May 21, 1958 in Chicago, Illinois a daughter of the late Zollie and Maudie Austell Miller Bolton. Mrs. Campbell was a Home Maker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by siblings, John Bolton, and James Bolton; Shirley Pena, Linda Nesbit, Diane McInnish, Donnie Smith, Thomas Smith, Kenny Smith, Jerry Smith, Dennis Smith and a grandson, Austin Boothe

Surviving are her husband, Mike Campbell; daughter, April Slayton; sons, Joseph Boothe, Christopher Millican and Jason Slayton; 16 grandchildren, 17 greatgrandchildren; sister, Mary Stanley and brother, Larry Bolton.; several nieces and nephews also survive

Funeral Services will be held Thursday, February 5, 2026 at 1 p.m. eastern standard time from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Larry Bolton officiating; interment in Greenhills Memory Garden. Active Pallbearers will be Robby Wallin, Jason Slayton, Joe Boothe, Chris Millican, Kaleb Millican, Dakota Millican and Daniel Hunt. Visitation will be held Thursday from 12 noon until the hour of service.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Debra Darlene Campbell who passed away Sunday.

CARTER

MRS. JUDY GALE CARTER, age 80, of Menlo, Georgia, passed away Wednesday evening, January 28, 2026, in a Rome hospital. Native to Summerville, Georgia, She was born to the late James and Evelyn Warren Bryan on November 21, 1945. Mrs. Carter was retired from the sort and grind department of Mohawk Industries. In addition to Parents, She was preceded in death by sons, the late George Carter, Jr., and the late Thomas Britt Carter; sister, the late Brenda Crowe; brothers, the late Jimmy Bryan, Ronnie Bryan, and Michael Bryan.

Surviving are Her husband, George (Gene) Carter; daughters, Lisa Cordell and Jill Spears; son, James Carter; grandchildren, Stephanie Morgan, Crystal Wade, Dalton Bonanno, Blake Bonanno, Tori Patterson, Amber Lemming, Dillon Carter, Bailee Carter, Emma Patterson Carter, and Gracie Patterson Carter; Eight Great Grandchildren, Nieces, and Nephews also survive.

Memorial service will be held Sunday, February 1st, at 2:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Sammy Barrett officiating.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Judy Gale Carter who passed away Wednesday evening.

WATERS

MR. DAVID MICHAEL WATERS, age 78, of Rome, Georgia, formerly of Chattooga County, passed away Monday afternoon, January 19, 2026, in a Rome hospital. A native of Trion, Georgia, He was born to the late Robert Payne and Annie Maude Simpson Waters on March 31, 1947. Mr. Waters was Church of Christ by Faith, retired construction worker, and a Veteran of Viet Nam serving in the U. S. Army. In addition to Parents, He was preceded in death by a brother, the late Ronald Waters, Sr., a sister, the late Morene Waters, and son-in-law, Clark Money.

Surviving are wife, Marcia Waters; daughters, Hope Money, Suzanne (Darrin) McLain, and Missy Braden; step daughters, Danielle (Tom) Luipersbeck and Amy (Hank) Windham; grandchildren, Erin (Brent) Bledsoe, Dalton (Rachel) Braden, Ethan (Yaniria) Young, Richie Hicks, Matt (Lenea) Money, Anna Butler, Sophie Luipersbeck; Six Great Grandchildren; sister, Donna (Ralph) Wright; brothers, Raymond (Sue) Waters, Sr., Aaron Waters, and Aaron Simpson, Sr.; several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held Friday, January 23rd, at 2:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Minister Brad Hayes officiating, interment in Greenhills Memory Garden, with American Legion Shanklin-Attaway Post #5 Honor Guard rendering Military Honors. Active Pallbearers, Adam Waters, Todd Waters, Ray Waters, Jr., Hugh Wright, Ethan Young, and Hank Windham. The Family will receive friends Friday from 1 until 2 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. David Michael Waters who passed away Monday.

WILLIAMS

Charles Thomas Williams, Sr.

Community Leader and Industrial Engineer

Community leader and Industrial Engineer Charles Thomas Williams, Sr. died on Saturday, January 17, 2026 in Ooltewah, Tennessee following a long and rich life of caring and dedicated devotion to God, his Family, and Community.

He was preceded in death by his parents, the late Edgar Buckner Williams and Clara Green Williams, Brother Malcolm Williams, Sister Kathleen Cates, Sister Frances Spencer, first wife Faye Williams, and second wife Ruth Williams.

Mr. Williams is survived by his son, Charles “Chuck” Williams, Jr. and wife Joy of Chattanooga, Tennessee, Daughter, Lisa Logan and husband Kim of Cohutta, Georgia, Grandchildren Adam Logan of Chattanooga, Tennessee, Larken Raines and husband Ray of Rock Spring, Georgia, Ryan Logan of Cohutta, Georgia, Charles Williams III and wife Mackenzie of Franklin, Tennessee and Sarah Bortolotto and husband Zack of Ooltewah, Tennessee, Great Grandchildren Kennedy Williams of Franklin, Tennessee, Charles “Charlie” Williams IV of Franklin, Tennessee, and Ellie Bortolotto of Ooltewah, Tennessee.

Mr. Williams was born on September 18, 1927 in Humboldt, Tennessee to Edgar and Clara Williams. As a young boy, he worked numerous jobs in the Alamo, Tennessee area including picking cotton, picking strawberries, and working at a local funeral home. He attended Alamo High School and was the Senior Class President, graduating in 1945.

He began his post High School education at the University of Tennessee. After attending one year, due to a work accident to his Father, he came home to help his family by leading a survey crew for Gibson County Electric in Trenton, Tennessee.

When his Father regained his health, he served in the United States Army during the occupation of Germany after World War II and in the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in 1952 with a rank of Sergeant First Class. After his military service, he enrolled at Mississippi State University. He immediately became a huge fan of the Bulldogs, enjoying any and all sporting events throughout his life. He received an Industrial Engineering degree from Mississippi State in 1955.

Mr. Williams accepted his first post-graduation employment as an Industrial Engineer at Armstrong Tire and Rubber Company in Natchez, Mississippi. He married his first wife, Faye in 1956, and they started their family welcoming Chuck in 1958 and Lisa in 1959.

In 1961, the Family moved to Summerville, Georgia when he accepted a position as Special Project Engineer with Riegel Textile Corporation. Subsequent jobs at Atlas Chemical and Cone Mills prepared him for a 22 year career at Dixie Yarns in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He retired in 1993 as the Chief Industrial Engineer for the company.

Mr. Charlie, as he was affectionately known, was involved in numerous Civic Organizations. Among his leadership roles were Chairman of the Chattooga County Hospital Authority, President of the Summerville Elementary PTA, President of

Summerville Little League, District Administrator of Little League, Cubmaster of the Summerville Pack 73 Cub Scouts, District Commissioner of Cub Scouts, Secretary of the American Institute of Industrial Engineers, Lions Club, Gideon’s International, and the Chattooga Linebackers Club. He most enjoyed serving at the Summerville First Baptist Church. He was a former Deacon Chairman, Young Men Sunday School Teacher, Baraka Sunday School Teacher, and was recognized in 2025 for 30 years of service as Deacon Emeritus.

He was always interested in the activities and growth of his five Grandchildren and three Great Grandchildren. They always looked forward to their visits to Granddaddy’s house, throwing baseball or football in the backyard, playing on the swing set, exploring the treasures of the basement, but they particularly enjoyed special occasions such as the annual Easter Egg Hunt, Independence Day cookouts, birthday celebrations, and especially the Christmas Eve Williams’ Family traditions. Those memories will be cherished forever.

In his later years, he enjoyed walking with his Farrar Drive neighbors, teaching his Sunday School class at the First Baptist Church, watching any Mississippi State sporting event, and traveling with wife Ruth to such destinations as Israel, England, Italy, Alaska, and Hawaii.

He was a kind, loving, and giving person, always willing to assist his church, family, friends, neighbors, and community. His life was dedicated to the service of others.

Active pallbearers will be Adam Logan, Charles Williams, Ryan Logan, Zack Bortolotto, Ray Raines, and Arch Farrar. Honorary pallbearers will be Mike Poole, Paul Meredith, and the Deacons of the Summerville First Baptist Church.

Officiating will be Reverend Paul Mason, Reverend Randy Clayton, and Reverend Tim Evans. Interment will be in Green Hills Memory Gardens.

The Family will receive friends on Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 1:00-3:00 pm at Rainwater Funeral Home with a memorial service to follow at 3:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the Family requests memorial donations be made to the Summerville First Baptist Church, 125 Georgia Avenue, Summerville, Georgia, 30747 or to the Gideon’s International.

Rainwater Funeral Home, Summerville, Georgia is in charge of arrangements.

TEEMS

MR. TERRY LEWIS TEEMS, age 68, of Dry Creek Road, Summerville, Georgia, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, January 7, 2026, in a Rome hospital. He was born in Gainesville, Georgia on January 26, 1957 to the late Lewis Irvin and Mary Irene Dyer Teems. He was Baptist by Faith, retired Lab Tech for Mohawk Mill, and an accomplished musician. In addition to his parents, He was preceded in death by a granddaughter the late Waelynn Teems.

Surviving are His wife, Melanie Teems; son, Taeler Teems; grandson, Warren Teems; sisters, Carol Rhinehart and Kathy Gentry; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 10th, at 11:00 A.M. from the North Summerville Baptist Church with Pastor Malcolm Harris and Pastor Sammy Barrett officiating, interment in Summerville Cemetery. Active Pallbearers Jayce Harris, Kamdyn Harris, Zach Hughes, Tony Hughes, Blake Gentry, Austyn Gentry. The Family will receive friends Saturday from 10 until 11 A.M. at the Church.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Terry Lewis Teems, who passed away Wednesday morning.

MARTIN

MRS. ANNIE RUTH MARTIN, age 91, of Highway 48, Summerville, Georgia, passed away Friday morning, December 26, 2025, at her residence. Native of Summerville, Georgia, She was born on April 10, 1934, a daughter of the late Woodrow and Maybelle Haggard Abernathy. Prior to retirement, she was a beautician for many years. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, the late Billy Martin, Sr., son, the late Jack Warren, and daughter, the late Brenda Bearden; She was a member of the Alpine Community Church.

Surviving are son, Billy (Cindy) Martin, Jr.; sister, Pam Abernathy; grandsons, Todd, James, and Zach Bearden; granddaughters, Chris Ann Martin Davenport and Amy Martin (Cody) Crane; great grandsons, Jared Bearden, Raidyn and Reece Davenport, and Dawson Crane.

Graveside and interment service will be held Saturday at 1:00 P.M. in Summerville Cemetery with Rev. Jeremy Stroop officiating. Active Pallbearers James Bearden, Mike Martin, Jeff Martin, Todd Bearden, Jared Bearden, and Codey Crane; Honorary Pallbearers Raidyn and Reece Davenport.

Special thanks to Tapestry Hospice nurses, Madison Sanders and Christy Green and the rest of their Staff.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Annie Ruth Martin.

FLOYD

MR. MICHAEL NOLAN “MIKE” FLOYD, age 80, of Highway #114, Summerville, Georgia, passed away December 3, 2025, at his residence. Born in Rome, Georgia on December 14, 1945, he was a son of the late James W. Floyd and Frances Busby Floyd. Mike was retired supervisor in the tufting department of Mohawk Mills and a member of South Summerville Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, the late Margaret Jane Ivey Floyd, a son, the late Matt Floyd, and brothers, the late Buddy Floyd and Tony Floyd.

Surviving are daughter, Terri Lynn Floyd; sons, Mickey (Stephanie) Floyd and Mark (Beth) Floyd; several Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren; sister, Martha Durham Bishop; daughter in law, Elena Floyd: several Nieces and Nephews also survive.
A Memorial service will be held Sunday, December 14th, at 2:00 P.M. from the South Summerville Baptist Church with Rev. Gene Greer officiating.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Michael Nolan “Mike” Floyd, who passed away December 3, 2025.

BROWN

MRS. VELETA SUE BROWN, age 74, of Jenkins Gap Road, Summerville, Georgia, passed away Sunday morning, December 7, 2025, at Her residence.  Born in Trion, Georgia on August 12, 1951, She was a daughter of the late Hugh and Christine Atkins Leath.  Veleta is a member of The United by Faith Baptist Church and retired from the assembly department of Roper Corporation.  In addition to Parents She is preceded in death by a brother-in-law the late Doc Hardin.

Surviving are Her husband, Rev. Barry Brown; daughters, April (Todd) Browning and Jessica (Matt) Smith; grandchildren, William (Heather) Lamb, Ricky Lamb (Kaitlyn Alexander), Ansley Brown, Bailey Evans, Emma Evans, Leland Smith; Nine Great Grandchildren; sisters, Anita Hardin, Rita (David) Bierkamp, Reva (Gary) Knowles; brother-in-law, Gary (Carol) Brown; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, December 10th, at 3:00 P.M. from United By Faith Baptist Church with Rev. John McGraw and Rev. Sanford Deberry officiating, interment in West Hill Cemetery. Active Pallbearers Gene Cavin, Darrell Huskey, Jack Beason, Tommy Middleton, Jay Young, Tony Prince; Honorary Pallbearers Ladies Sunday School Class of United By Faith, Dr. Frank Hampton, Cristy Cavin, and Nurses of Heyman Hospice. Visitation will be Tuesday from 6 until 8 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Veleta Sue Brown who passed away Sunday.

SPAIN

Douglas Norton Spain, a loving husband, father and Papa, age 85, of Subligna, Georgia,

passed away on Saturday, December 6, 2025. Doug, as he was known, was born on October 12th, 1940, in Trion, Georgia, to the late Jimmie and Gertrude Louise Norton Spain. Doug retired from Roper Corporation in 2002 after 30 years of service and was currently employed with Chattooga County Public Works. Doug had many interests including woodworking and was an avid fan of vintage cars. He was a former member of the North Georgia Cruisers and was also a founding member of Horizon Baptist Fellowship, where he would greet you with a warm smile and ensure that you did not forget your bulletin. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Virginia Spain Bullard; Phyllis Spain; and niece, Deborah Bullard Jennings.

Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Allene Jennings Spain; his children, Amelia Spain

Blackmon, Carol Spain, Adam Spain, and Crystal Spain (Bud Raburn). Grandchildren: Blake Maney (Emily), Carrington Maney (Tyler Free), Piper Maney, and Zeke Spain; several nieces and nephews also survive.

The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, December 10th at 11am from Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Rev. Kenneth Jennings and Dr. Dalen Jackson officiating followed by interment at Subligna Cemetery. Active Pallbearers will be Ken Jennings, Stephen Jennings, David Fletcher Sr., David Fletcher Jr., Carey Maney, and Dennis Bullard. Honorary Pallbearers will be Larry Norton, Steve Bullard, David King and the members of Horizon Baptist Fellowship. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 from 5pm until 7pm at Earle Rainwater Funeral Home. The family extends their appreciation to the Chattooga County 911 staff, the staff at Atrium Health Floyd Chattooga Emergency Department, the Subligna Volunteer Fire Department, and special friends Jeremy and Lauren Mitchell.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Douglas Norton Spain.