MILLER

Marion Elaine Miller, 1943-2024

On December 4th, Marion Elaine Miller, née Patterson, 81, of Menlo, GA, passed away peacefully in Legends of Colorado Springs, in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Elaine was born on January 15, 1943 in Trion, GA to Maxine Patterson, née Phillips, and Horace G. Patterson. She attended Summerville High School, Class of ’61, where she excelled in academic courses as well as varsity cheerleading and basketball.

In November, 1969, Elaine married Armuchee, GA native Emmett Wayne Miller, aka “Schlitz”, also a Summerville H.S. graduate as well as U.S. Marine Corp Vietnam veteran. Emmett was about to embark on a storied career with the CIA. A year later, Elaine joined the CIA ranks at Edwards AFB, where they both supported the U2 and SR-71 spy plane projects. Thus began an almost 30-year joint career that would take them to posts in northern Virginia, Cyprus, Sri Lanka, Kuwait, Germany, and England.

Upon retirement in 1997, the couple returned to Chattooga County, where they renovated an old farmhouse in Menlo and spent years traveling and working overseas as U.S. government contractors in embassies, consulates, and other high-security areas.

Elaine was preceded in death by husband, Emmett, who passed on November, 18, 2022, and parents Horace and Maxine Patterson, brothers Hall and Glenn Patterson, sister-in-law Doris Dover Patterson, aunt Martha Taylor, uncles Tom, Watson, Dempsey, and Pharaday Phillips, and cousin, Reba Phillips.

Surviving family members include son Barry and his children Skye, Rowan, and Kenna Cusack Miller, son Emmett and daughter-in-law Nora Miller and their children Joshua and Rylee Miller, sister-in-law Linda Hughes Patterson, nephews Michael and David Patterson and their children Autumn, Heather, and Jerison Patterson, and niece Nicole Patterson and her children Autumn, John, and Gracie Patterson.

Remembrance at Earle Rainwater Funeral Home Dates to be announced.

WHITE

MR. ROBBY WHITE, age 76, of Lyerly, Georgia passed away Sunday, December 29, 2024, in a Rome hospital. Mr. White was born in Lyerly, Georgia on February 23, 1948, to the late Albert Newton (Buck) White and Lucile Bell White. He was a member of the Lyerly First Baptist Church, a U. S. Army Veteran of Viet Nam a painting Contractor, was an avid Golfer, and was President of Chattooga High School 1967 Senior Graduating Class. In addition to Parents, He was preceded in death by a sister, the late Mary Elizabeth “Ebbie” Stephenson and a nephew, Michael Eli Stephenson.

Surviving are daughter, Miranda Lee White; son, Trevor Russell White; granddaughter, Allison and grandson Greyson; nieces, Deborah Stephenson, Carol (Tommy) Haynie; nephew, Dave (Sharon) Stephenson, also survive.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. from the Lyerly First Baptist Church with Rev. Barry Peppers officiating, interment in Lyerly Cemetery. Visitation will be Saturday from 1 until 2 P.M. at the Church; there will be a gathering after the interment service.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Robby White.

WOOTEN

MRS. ELKE WOOTEN, age 82, of Savannah, Georgia, passed away December 22, 2024, in Savannah. She was born in Berlin, Germany, on November 6, 1942, a daughter of the late Gustar and Erna Tenetorf Scheusher. Mrs. Wooten was a filling station cashier, and was preceded in death by her husband, the Late Billy John Wooten on April 22, 2012.

Surviving are daughters, Elke Margaret Roy, Jennifer Dawn Beasley, and Audrey Racquell Lamar; son, William John Wooten; Ten Grandchildren; several Nieces and Nephews.

Graveside and interment service will be held Friday, January 3, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. from Wooten Cemetery at Cloudland, Georgia.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

CLARK

MRS. GLENDA “BLONDIE” CLARK, age 58, of Martin Dairy Road, Summerville, Georgia, passed away unexpectedly Monday, December 23, 2024, in a local health care facility. Mrs. Clark was born in LaFayette, Georgia on September 22, 1966 to the late Conal Jefferson and Shirley Thompson George. She was a member of United by Faith Church and was a Homemaker. In addition to Parents, She was preceded in death by a grandson, the late Camron Clark, and a brother, the late Steve George.

Surviving are Her husband, Allen Clark; daughter, Heather Leann Clark (Kyle); sons, Allen Dewayn Clark, Timothy Allen (Nicole) Clark, Jonathan Michael (Tina) Clark, and Nathan Daniel (Melissa) Clark; sisters, Linda Clark, Annette Pritchett, and Heather Boyd; brother Jeff George; grandchildren, Nasiah McVay, Hunter Clark, Brantley Clark, Elijah Gordon, Harper Gordon, Camron Driver, Donovan Warren, Layla Mae Clark, Braxton Clark, Brice Major, Leland Rose, and Debbie Rose; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Friday, December 27th, at 3:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Barry Brown and Mr. John McGraw officiating, interment in Chapel Hill Cemetery. Active Pallbearers, Jacob Nelson, Steven Hamby, Camron Driver, Dillon Mitchell, Curtis Cochran, and Eddie Jackson. The Family will receive friends Thursday afternoon from 4 until 6 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Glenda Clark, who passed away Monday.

CHAMBERS

MR. JOHN WAYNE CHAMBERS, age 84, of Melba Drive, Trion, Georgia, passed away Monday, December 16, 2024, in Trion, Georgia, He was born in Trion, Georgia to the late John Mac and Mattie Bryan Chambers on January 13, 1940. Mr. Chambers was Methodist by Faith, a Veteran of the U. S. Army serving in Korea, and was retired chemical operator for Rico Industries. In addition to Parents, He was preceded in death by a sister, the late Doris Bryant.

Surviving are daughters, Amy (Ben) Stanfield and Mary Beth (Darrin) Morrison; grandchildren, Micah and Mason Hughes, Levi Stanfield, and Brandon Morrison.

Funeral and interment service will be held Thursday, December 19th, at 11:00 A.M., from West Hill Cemetery, with Rev. Ken Oliver officiating. Active Pallbearers will be Grandsons, American Legion Shanklin-Attaway Post #5 of Rome will render Military Honors at graveside.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. John Wayne Chambers, who passed away Monday.

DAVIS

 

Joann B. Davis of Summerville Ga departed her loving family on December 11, 2024. She passed peacefully in her sleep with her daughter Dawn Davis by her side.

Joann was born in McDonough Ga on October 22, 1935 to Edna Craig Brown Austin and Emerson Brown. Her loving stepfather was John B. Austin.

Joann was Mother to Dawn Jolene Davis and Dayna Davis Miles. She raised her children with love and devotion in Morrow Ga with her husband Jeff B. Davis.

As an Educator, Joann was known for her love and dedication to the children she taught. She also had a Dachshund named Josie that she doted on and loved dearly.

Her hobbies included Cooking and Gardening. She designed the floor plan of the family home that was built in 1964 and was featured in Better Homes and Gardens magazine.

She is survived by her daughters Dawn Jolene Davis and Dayna Davis Miles, Grandchildren Paul Daniel Norwood II and Rachel Miles Makin. She is also survived by her Son in law Roger W. Miles.

There will be no Funeral services as her Daughter Dawn J. Davis will privately lay her to rest.

In lieu of flowers, Donations can be made to the charity of your choice.

ORR

MRS. PLUMA ALICE ORR, age 83, formerly of Summerville, Georgia, passed away Wednesday morning, December 11, 2024, in a Rome, Georgia assisted living. She was born in Trion, Georgia on July 12, 1941, a daughter of the late Hubbard and Myrtle Simmons Keen. She was a member of the Pennville First Baptist Church and retired from the Training Department of Mount Vernon Mills. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, the late James Eugene Orr, and siblings Nellie Woods and Melvin Keen died earlier.

Surviving are son and daughter-in-law, Bobby and Camille Orr; grandchildren, Alex Orr, Adam Orr, and Emma Orr; sister, Ortha Ward and Lois Smith; brothers, James Keen and Charles Keen; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral service will be Saturday at 12 noon from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Rev. Terry Colbert officiating. The Family will receive visitors Saturday from 11 a.m. until 12 noon at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Pluma Alice Orr who passed away Wednesday.

HAYES

MRS. POLLY HAYES, age 96, of Trion, Georgia, passed away Wednesday, December 11, 2024, in the local nursing home. She was born in Trion, Georgia on August 26, 1928, to the late Oliver and Annie Ray Colbert Farmer. Mrs. Hayes, for 37 years was an executive secretary for Riegel Textile-Mount Vernon Mills. She attended the Pennville Church of Christ and the Pleasant Grove Church of Christ. In addition to Parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, the late Billy Joe “Jug” Hayes and brother, the late Don Farmer.

Surviving are her sons, Steve Hayes and Kevin (Betsy) Hayes; sister, Sylvia Starkey; grandchildren, Preston (Jamie) Hayes, Nicki Collins, Haydn (Kandace) Hayes, Holden (Annabeth) Hayes; great grandchildren, William Hayes, Aliya McBryde, Jaydn Hayes, Harper Hayes, Ryland Hayes, Bridget Hayes, and Janae Moore; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, December 15, 2024 at 2 p.m. from the J.D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Ministers Hugh Glaze and Rick Lawson officiating, interment in West Hill Cemetery. Active Pallbearers will be Preston Hayes, Haydn Hayes, Holden Hayes, Jaydn Hayes, Robert Hayes and Scott Parris. Honorary Pallbearers will be members of Pennville Church of Christ, members of Pleasant Grove Church of Christ and the staff members of Oakview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Barry and Pam Bridges, Sue Bridges, Beth and Doug Wilson, Tammy and Mike Bennett and Elizabeth Hall. Visitation will be held from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. at the Funeral Home. The Family respectfully requests No flowers and suggests donations to the Gospel Broadcasting Network @ gbntv.org.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Polly Hayes.

KIRBY

MRS. SHERRY DIANE KIRBY, age 66, of Montgomery Street, Summerville, Georgia, passed away Thursday, November 28, 2024, in a Rome hospital. Mrs. Kirby was born on July 15, 1958 in Summerville, Georgia, a daughter of the late Fred Miller and Martha Lou Clark Money; She was a Homemaker and Baptist by Faith. In addition to Parents, She was preceded in death by a brother, the Late Clark Money.

Surviving are Her husband, Ed Kirby; sisters, Lisa Keen, Buffy Money, and A. J. Martin; brother, Todd Money; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Monday, December 2nd, at 1:00 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, Chase Lively, Bryan Barnes, Allen Keen, Ty Hutchins, Ethan Young, and Nish Patel. The Family will receive friends Monday from 12 noon until 1:00 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Sherry Diane Kirby, who passed away Thursday.

SCHILLING

MRS. BECKY SCHILLING, age 71, of Trion, Georgia, passed away Tuesday afternoon, November 12, 2024, following a sudden attack. A native of Cherokee County, Alabama, she was born on May 8, 1953, to the late Houston D. and Bessie Carolyn Stansell Palmer. She was a retired nurse for Chattooga County Hospital and Baptist by Faith. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Schilling was preceded in death by husband, the late Joseph H. Schilling, Jr. on September 8, 2009; siblings, the late Marilyn Foy Palmer, Bobby Gene Palmer, Jimmie Ruth Sweat, Kimberly Dawn Kennett, Phyllis Sue Padgett, and Beloved Pet-Lambchop.

Surviving are sisters, Pat Elsberry, Linda Orr, Martha Reynolds, Kathy Brown, Marsha Uptain; brothers, Houston Ladon Palmer & Michael T. Palmer; fiance’, Steve Scoggins; God children, Justin Blackmon and Amber Uptain.

Funeral service will be held Sunday, November 17th, at 2:00 P.M. from Graveside in Summerville Cemetery, with Gary Brown officiating. Active Pallbearers Stacy Reynolds, Robby Johnson, Mike Palmer, Justin Blackmon, Barry Padgett, and Jeremy Marshall. Visitation will be Sunday from 1 until 1:50 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Becky Schilling, who passed away Tuesday.

CARNES

MR. AUSTIN RYAN CARNES, age 27, of Lyerly, Georgia, passed away Saturday, November 9, 2024, from injuries received in a pedestrian-auto incident near Lyerly, on Saturday. He was a son of Lori Nichole Williams and Bobby Ray Carnes. Austin was employed with Joey’s Lawn service, and was preceded in death by grandparents the late Bobby Carnes, Terry and Marlene Williams; great grandparents, the late Joe Potter, Gordon and Margaret Williams, Lamar and Era Smith; great great grandmother, the late Evelyn Lemming also passed away earlier.

Surviving are son-Liam Brown; mother, Lori Williams, father and step mother, Bobby and Jessica Carnes; grandmother, Debbie Carnes; great grandmother, Kathryn Potter; brothers, Blake Williams and Jacob Swan.

Funeral service will be held Friday, November 15, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. from Graveside in Lyerly Cemetery with Rev. Robert Brown officiating; Active Pallbearers Brady Carnes, Eric Williams, Joey Carnes, Eric Brown, Blake Williams, and Jacob Swan. There will not be any visitation.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

GREEN

ALICE RUTH GREEN, 84, Summerville, Georgia, passed away November 8, 2024, in her home.

Born on July 26, 1940, Alice Ruth was the daughter of the late Ira “Runt” Henderson and Ruth Franklin Henderson. In addition to Parents, Her husband, Charles Amos Green and her sister, Peggy Helms died earlier.

Surviving are Her son, Charles Preston Green and brother, Ikie Henderson.

Interment will be in the Cloudland Presbyterian Church Cemetery. 

There will be no formal services.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

HALL

 MRS. JEWEL CAROL TOWNSEND HALL, age 92, of Menlo, Georgia, passed away Thursday morning, November 7, 2024, in a Rossville, Georgia, Nursing Facility, following an illness. She was born in Rome, Georgia on April 4, 1932 to the late George E. and Eunice Jones Townsend. Jewel was a member of the Menlo Methodist Church and was retired from Best Manufacturing Company after many years of service. In addition to Parents, Mrs. Hall was preceded in death by her husband, the late Dewey Jennings Hall on October 27, 1999, siblings, Mozell Stanfield and (Her twin) Sewell Townsend, half sisters, Beulah Freeman, Jackie Moore, and Ruth Barker, half brothers, Darrell Townsend and Buddy Townsend.

Surviving are sister, Nila Carmon; nieces and nephews, Joan Hunter, Tommy Carmon, Dan Carmon, Patrick Stanfield, Mark Stanfield, Allen Townsend, Mike Townsend, Kim Brown, Kris Caldwell and special friend, Donna Sentell.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, November 10, 2024 at 2 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Rev. Jody Brock officiating; Interment in Alpine Cemetery. Active Pallbearers Casey Christol, Gary Vaughn, Patrick Stanfield, Allen Townsend, Sidney Swords and Jody Brock; Honorary Pallbearers all Friends. Visitation will be held Sunday from 12:30 P.M. until 2 P.M. at the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Menlo Methodist Church, #266 Virginia Drive, Summerville, Georgia-30747.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Jewel Carol Townsend Hall.

NEWSOME

EDITH JACQUELINE (JACQUE) NEWSOME, age 71, of Lyerly, Georgia, passed away Saturday, November 2, 2024, at her residence following an accident two weeks ago. Born in Summerville, Georgia on June 14, 1953, She was a daughter of the late Gene Allen and Mary Sue Hix Newsome. Jacque was retired CNA for Oak View Nursing and Rehab. Center. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her companion Gary Eugene Battles, a son Brad Markham, and siblings Celeste Maddux and David Maddux.

Surviving are daughter, Shelley Maxey; sister, Rita Tanner, brother, Mike Newsome; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

The Family will receive visitors Thursday, November 7th, from 1 until 2 P.M. at Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Memorial service to follow in the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel, at 2:00 P.M. with Rev. Harold Helton officiating.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Edith Jacqueline (Jacque) Newsome.

SCOGGINS

The Family of Mrs. Eva Ernestine Wofford Scoggins, announces her entrance into the portals of glory, Sunday morning, October 27, 2024. She was the elder daughter of Ruby Lee Nation and Ernest Wofford, born in LaFayette, Georgia, April 13, 1931. She and husband Billy Scoggins, were married December 26, 1948 and were blessed with sixty-five years together. She retired from thirty years of service with Memorial Hospital, Chattanooga, Tennessee. Ernestine possessed a beautiful soprano voice and a great love for gospel music. She enjoyed creating unique flower beds and was always known to have a favorite pet at her side. Mrs. Scoggins was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Scoggins, mother, Ruby Wofford, and father, Ernest Wofford.; two daughters, Mary Kathryn Ingram and Karen Lee Shipp, and an only sister, Shirley Hutchins.

Lovingly known as “MaMaw Teenie”, she will be missed by her children; son, David Scoggins and daughter, Ava Paulette (and Hank), Jordan; half brother, Robert Wofford, also a great host of grandchildren.

A Celebration of her life and her faith, in word and song, will be held Saturday, November 2, 2024, at the Summerville Pentecostal Worship Center, with Brothers Carl Jackson, Kevin Woods, and Andy Hutchins officiating. Grandsons will serve as their grandmother’s pallbearers. Visitation beginning at 12 noon will prelude service.

Mrs. Eva Ernestine Scoggins, absent from the body, forever present with the Lord.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

DUNN

 MR. RONNIE DUNN, age 80, of Lyerly, Georgia, passed away Wednesday afternoon, October 23, 2024, in a Rome health care. He was born on October 23, 1944 in Savannah, Georgia to the late Joe Barnard and Maudelle Augusta Stewart Dunn. Mr. Dunn was a member of the Trion First Baptist Church and a Carpenter by trade. In addition to Parents, He was preceded in death by a brother, the late Joe Dunn.

Surviving are His wife, Joan V. Dunn; daughters, Rebecca Lanham and Janet Reynolds; sons, Ronald Eugene Dunn, Jr. and Andrew D. Dunn; brother, Mike Dunn; Nine Grandchildren, Three Great Grandchildren; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

The Family will receive friends Tuesday, October 29th, from 5 until 7 P.M. at Earle Rainwater Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Samaritan’s Purse or the American Heart Association.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

MORRISON

MR. CARL NEWTON MORRISON, age 87, of Summerville, Georgia, passed away Tuesday morning, October 23, 2024, at his daughter’s residence in Cedar Bluff, Alabama. Mr. Morrison was born in Rome, Georgia on October 14, 1937 to the late Newt and Velma Lowry Morrison. He served in the U. S. Army the 3rd Infantry in the Viet Nam era, was a member of American Legion Post 129, and was owner of Morrison & Associates Land Surveying Company. In addition to Parents, He was preceded in death by his wife the late Sandra Smithson Morrison and grandson, the late Cody Hogue.

Surviving are daughter and son-in-law, Cindy and Fred Hogue; son and daughter-in-law, Kevin and Julie Morrison; grandchildren, Preston Hogue, Ashley Williams and Amanda Williams; seven Great Grandchildren also survive.

Funeral services will be held Friday, October 25th, at 2:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Larry Reynolds officiating, interment in the Family Plot of Summerville Cemetery. Active Pallbearers Jon Dennis, Robert Jarrels, Joe Brown, Preston Hogue, Joy Hampton, and Rebecca Wood; Honorary Pallbearers Tim Etheridge, Vann Jennings, and members of American Legion Post 129. The Family will receive friends Thursday from 6 until 8 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Carl Newton Morrison.

SCOGGINS

MISS FRANCES D. SCOGGINS, age 86, of Subligna, Georgia, passed away Friday morning, October 18, 2024, in the local nursing home. She was born in Subligna on March 10, 1938, to the late Lawrence Chapman Scogging, Sr. and Ida Mae Rambo Scoggins. Miss Scoggins was a lifelong member of the Subligna Baptist Church and was a homemaker. In addition to Parents, She was preceded in death by her brothers, the late L. C. (Doc) Scoggins, Jr. (Ina) and Harold Scoggins (Dot), sister, the late Ms. Margaret Scoggins, and nephews the late Daryle Scoggins and Erick Scoggins.

Surviving are nieces and nephews, Sheryl McKinney and Carol Scoggins, Brion Scoggins, Mike Scoggins, and Mark Scoggins; several Great Nieces and Great Nephews; special friend, Odell Anderson.

Graveside and interment service, to celebrate the life of Miss Scoggins, will be held Monday, October 21st, at 1 P.M. at the Subligna Community Cemetery, with pastor Dr. Charles Bishop officiating. Active Pallbearers will be Nephews. In accordance with Miss Scoggins wishes, there will not be a visitation, anyone wishing to attend the service is requested to assemble at the Cemetery. The Family wishes to thank the Oakview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the care provided to Miss Scoggins during her stay.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Miss Frances D. Scoggins.

ALEXANDER

MRS. VIOLET RUTH ALEXANDER, age 84, of Dalton, Georgia, formerly of Summerville, Georgia, passed away Sunday morning, October 13, 2024, in Dalton. A native of Trion, Georgia, She was born on November 25, 1939, to the late James Harold Burkhalter, Sr. and Nora Belle Ledbetter Burkhalter. Mrs. Alexander was a member of the Summerville First Baptist Church, retired from the accounting department of Chrysler Corporation, and in addition to Parents was preceded in death by Her daughter, the late Alisa Burkhalter, sisters, the late Jo Ann Derusha and Nancy Lambert, brother James Harold Burkhalter, Jr., grandchild, Courtney Brown.

Surviving are Her husband, Don Alexander; grandchildren, Baylee (Dakota) Crowe and Jacob (Chelsea Morris) Brown; great grandchildren, Ellie Crowe and Oaklyn Crowe; step children, Kathy Brown and Steve Alexander; Loved by Six Grandchildren; 2 nieces, Donna Lambert Lee and Debbie Lambert Bostwick; 3 nephews, Kevin Derusha, Lee Derusha, and Grant Burkhalter.

Funeral and interment service will be held Wednesday, October 16th, at 2:00 P.M. from the West Hill Cemetery, in Trion, Dr. Randy Clayton officiating; active pallbearers, Mason Eller, Matthew Johnston, Dakota Crowe, Jason Hall, Cole Hall, and Jacob Brown. Visitation will be Wednesday from 12:00 noon until 1:30 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Violet Ruth Alexander who passed away Sunday.

HELTON

MR. HAROLD LEE HELTON, age 87, of Helton Drive, Summerville, Georgia, Berryton Community, passed away Tuesday, October 8, 2024, evening in a Rome hospital. A native of Berryton, He was born on August 29, 1937 to the late Lewis Houston and Mary Gertrude Ray Helton. Mr. Helton was a member of the Berryton Baptist Church, retired from the Dye Department of Mohawk Industry, and was preceded in death by his wife the late Vesta Stephens Helton on March 23, 2024.

Surviving are daughters, Cheryl Lee Farrar (Brent Williamson) and Stephanie Helton; granddaughter, Jennifer Lee Farrar Turner; great granddaughters, Stella Frances Lee Turner, Annabelle Dianne Turner, and Vivian Rose Turner; brother and sister-in-law, Wayne and Jayne Helton; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Friday, October 11th, at 3:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Mike Smith officiating, interment in Summerville Cemetery. Active Pallbearers, Joe Stephens, Chuck Helton, Terry Scoggins, Derek Smith, Landon Stephens, and Evan Stephens; Honorary Pallbearers, Mark Schrader, Sr., Robert Brown, Caro Owen, Robert Warren, Donny Kinsey, and Phil Helton. Visitation will be Friday from 1:00 until 3:00 P.M. at the Funeral Home. Flowers are appreciated or contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in memory of Mr. Helton.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Harold Lee Helton, who passed away Tuesday evening.

ALEXANDER

MR. HOMER GORDON ALEXANDER, age 86, of Lawrenceville, Georgia, passed away Monday afternoon, October 7, 2024, in Lawrenceville, Georgia. He was born in Lyerly, Georgia on December 17, 1937 to the late Henry and Ruth Staggs Alexander. Mr. Alexander graduated from high school in Sanford, Florida, attended Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida and Athens State University in Athens, Alabama. He married Nancy King of Summerville, Georgia in 1962. Mr. Alexander was a member of Ivy Creek Baptist Church, Buford, Georgia, and was retired District Manager for Graybar Electric Company, Miami, Florida, in 1994.

Surviving are His wife, Nancy King Alexander; three children, Jeffrey Alexander (Patty), Susanne Aznabay (Kemy), and James Alexander (Mindy); nine grandchildren, Matthew (Brittany), Christian, Dylan, Ryan, Kylee, Blake, Jared, Carson, Logan, and one great granddaughter, Robin Alexander.

Funeral and interment service will be held Friday, October 11th, at 11:00 A.M. from Alpine Cemetery at Menlo, Georgia, with Greg Bolton officiating. The Family will receive friends Thursday from 4 until 6 P.M. at the Funeral Home. Pallbearers will be Grandchildren. Flowers are appreciated or contributions may be made to the “Tunnel To Towers Foundation” at t2t.org or “Wounded Warrior Project” at support.woundedwarriorproject.org. Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Homer Gordon Alexander who passed away Monday.

MARMET

MR. JOHN EDWARD MARMET, age 36, of Susie Lane, Summerville, Georgia, passed away Thursday evening from injuries received in an auto accident. He was born in Rome, Georgia on August 24, 1988, a son of the late Charles Edward Marmet and Janice Edgeworth Marmet Prater, who survives. Mr. Marmet was a member of the Community Holiness Church and employed by Traeger Pelletts Company.

Surviving are He wife, Kourtney Marmet; mother and step father, Janice Marmet and Tony Prater; daughter, Jaycea Renea Marmet; son, Memphis Marmet; sister, Jennifer Suzanne Marmet; brother, Michael Marmet; aunts, Debbie Nance, Pat Corey, Barbara Marmet; cousins, Joie Nance and Nickie Corey.

Funeral and interment services will be held Monday, September 30th, at 2:00 P.M. from the Mount Olive Cemetery, at Cloudland, with Rev. Paul Bice officiating. Pallbearers will be Michael Blackmon, Dakota Lively, Anthony Green, Malachi Key, Bradley Wright, Memphis Marmet, Wess Ford, Manning Spencer, C-Dubb Bunn, and Eddie Miller; Honorary Pallbearers the Freedom Seekers Motor Cycle Club. Visitation will be Monday from 12 noon until 1:15 P.M.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. John Edward Marmet.

BALDWIN

MS. CAITLIN RAE BALDWIN, age 32, of Hwy 337, Summerville, Georgia, passed away Thursday afternoon, September 20, 2024, at her residence following an extended illness. She was born in Rome, Georgia on August 29, 1992, was a member of the LaFayette United Methodist Church, and was in retail sales.

Surviving are parents, Max and Tari Baldwin; grandparents, Peggy Baldwin, William and Carol Proctor; fiance’, Timothy Asbury; several Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins also survive.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, September 29th at 2:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Randall Massengill officiating, entombment in Greenhills Memory Gardens. Active Pallbearers Patrick Baldwin, Dana Proctor, Timothy Asbury, Nicolas Overstreet, Matt Pobieglo, and Mark Woods. Visitation will be Sunday from 12 noon until 2:00 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Ms. Caitlin Rae Baldwin, who passed away Thursday.

RAGAN

MR. DYLAN WADE RAGAN, age 32, of Lyerly, Georgia went to his Heavenly home on Friday, September 27, 2024, with Family at his side. Dylan was born May 19, 1992, in Rome, Georgia, a member of the Berryton Baptist Church, was an avid Pokeman card collector, and years ago could be found outdoors shooting basketball for hours. Of late, His favorite pastime was creek bank fishing with friends. Dylan loved family, and looked forward to every holiday get together. He was preceded in dead by father, the late Thomas Wade Ragan and grandfathers the late Bobby Carnes and Joe Potter.

Dylan will be greatly missed by mother and step father, Kimberly and Eric Brown; brother, William Brown; grandmothers, Debbie Carnes, Kathryn Potter, and Judy Rogan; grandfather, Jerry Wade Ragan; uncles and aunts, Joey and Amanda Carnes, and Bob Carnes; several Cousins that adored Him; special friend, Chelsey Holt.

A private graveside service will be held Sunday, September 29th, in Lyerly Cemetery with Pastor Barry Brown officiating. Pallbearers Joey Carnes, Bob Carnes, Mack Burke, Dwight Dotson, Budd Mobbs, Brady Carnes, Harry Farrow, Austin Carnes, and Cameron Driver.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

HALL

MRS. BARBARA JEAN HALL, age 91, of Hall’s Valley Road, Trion, Georgia, passed away Saturday afternoon, September 14, 2024, at her residence. Mrs. Hall was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee on February 17, 1933 to the late Charles Franklin and May Bell Harris Williams. She was a member of Pleasant Grove Church of Christ and a retired Teacher for Chattooga Headstart; in addition to Parents, She was preceded in death by several Siblings.

Surviving are Her husband, Fred Hall; daughters, Freda (Ken) Anderson, Brenda (Clifford) Snyder; and Kathy (Trent) Mercer; son, David (Pam Hall; Eight Grandchildren, Twelve Great Grandchildren, and One Great Great Granddaughter; sisters, Betty Huckabee and Alice Gunter; several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral and interment service will be held Monday at 1:00 P.M. from the Howell Cemetery with Minister Hugh Glaze officiating. The Family will receive friends Monday from 11:00 A.M. until 12:45 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Barbara Jean Hall who passed away Saturday.

SCOGGINS

MR. DONNY H. SCOGGINS, age 81, of Ramey Street, Summerville, Georgia, passed away Saturday afternoon, September 14, 2024, at Atrium Health Floyd Chattooga, following a sudden event. He was born in Summerville, Georgia on February 22, 1943, a son of the late Benjamin Delaney and Rosell Maxey Scoggins. A member of the Subligna Baptist Church and for many years He owned and operated Scoggins Garage in Pennville. In addition to Parents, He was preceded in death by first wife, the late Eula Belle Scoggins on September 27, 2014 and a son the late Brent Scoggins on July 12, 2018, siblings, Edward Scoggins, Blanche Bean, Ruby Brewster, None Maxwell, and Carrie Ann Morrow all passed away earlier.

Surviving are wife, Carol Scoggins; son, Kevin (Sandra) Scoggins; step son, Kyle Parris; brother, Johnny (Eleanor) Scoggins; grandchildren, Terry & Brandi Eller and Nathan & Jennifer Thompson; great grandchildren, Alex Stewart, Logan Eller, Sara Thompson, and Addie Thompson; special niece, Beth Kellett; several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, September 17th, at 1:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home, with Pastor Charles Bishop officiating, interment in Summerville Cemetery. Active Pallbearers Jody Stoner, Michael White, Jim Wright, Alex Stewart, Logan Eller, and Ray Casey; Honorary Pallbearers Stacey Whited, Chris Scott, and the North Georgia Cruisers. The Family will receive friends Monday evening 6 until 8 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Donny H. Scoggins who passed away Saturday.

PAYNE

MRS. MARGIE ORLENA PAYNE, age 97, of Neal Gap Road, Summerville, Georgia, passed away at her residence Wednesday evening, September 11, 2024. She was born on January 24, 1927, in Tennessee, to the late James and Orlena Gibson Conner. Mrs. Payne was retired secretary for Pennville School; in addition to Parents was preceded in death by first husband, the late George William Payne and second husband, the late Thomas Broome, sister, the late Velma Jean Holland and half brother, the late James L. Payne.

Surviving are daughters, Amelia McCrickard and Rebecca Lynn Gable; sons, Larry William Payne and Bobby Payne; Seven Grandchildren, Eleven Great Grandchildren, several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 14th, at 1:00 P.M. from the Pennville Church of Christ with Minister Robby Eversole and Minister Brad Hayes officiating, interment in West Hill Cemetery. Active Pallbearers Larry William Payne, William James, David Gable, Bobby Payne, Robert Payne, and Gabriel Gable. The Family will receive relatives and friends, Saturday from 11 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. at Pennville Church of Christ.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for MRS. MARGIE-ORLENA PAYNE who passed away Wednesday evening.

WOODY

 MR. LEON WOODY, age 82, of LaFayette, Georgia, passed away Monday evening, September 9, 2024, in a Fort Oglethrope, Georgia health center. He was born in Ringgold, Georgia on February 15, 1942, to the late Olan and Estelle Wilson Woody. Mr. Woody was Baptist by Faith; he formerly owned/operated his own grocery store and was the former manager of Summerville Ingles Food Store. In addition to Parents, Mr. Woody was preceded in death by siblings Kenneth Woody, Terry Woody, Brenda Woody, Kay Woody, and Joyce Woody Spivey.

Surviving are His daughter and son-on-law, Sandra and Royce Williams; granddaughters-Morgan and Nick Obey and Jenna and Stryker Brown; great grandchildren, Laine and Sophie Brown, and Ella and Zander Obey; brother, Tim (Tammy) Woody; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Graveside and interment service was held Wednesday, September 11th, at 3:00 P.M. in West Hill Cemetery in Trion, with Rev. Harold Helton officiating.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr., Leon Woody who passed away Monday evening, September 9, 2024.

LOWRANCE

MRS. BETTY JO LOWRANCE, age 86, of Summerville, Georgia, passed away Thursday afternoon, August 29, 2024, in LaFayette, Georgia. Mrs. Lowrance was born in Trion, Georgia to the late Woodrow and Juanita Chaney Garmany on November 16, 1937. She was Church of God by Faith and a personal caregiver. Mrs. Lowrance was preceded in death by husband, the late Dewey Lowrance in 2001, a sister, Gloria Jean Garmany, brothers, Charles Edwards, Gerald Garmany, Wesley Garmany, and Gary Don Garmany.

Surviving are daughters, Betty (Sissie) Lowrance (Rusty Hamilton), Gaynelle Goodson, and Sandra Gray (Dennis), sons, Grady Ledford, Wesley Ledford, Matthew Lowrance, Kenneth Avery Brock, and Randall Brock; sister, Linda Adams, Edna Graze, and Kathryn Davis; brothers, Donald Garmany and Melvin Edwards; several Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren, Nieces, and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, September 3rd, at 11:00 A.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Dawlon Conkle officiating, interment in Coulter Cemetery in Kensington, Georgia. Active Pallbearers John Lee, Jonathan Asher, Shaun Goodson, Lin Gray, Ashton Goodson, and Cody Ware. The Family will receive friends Tuesday from 10 until 11 A.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Betty Jo Lowrance who passed away Thursday evening.

TRIBBLE

Frank Kenyon "Ken" Tribble, Jr., passed away peacefully at home on August 6, 2024, at the age of 67 in Holland, Georgia. Born on January 26, 1957, in Greenville, Alabama, he was a well-respected member of his community.Ken graduated from Robert L. Osborne High School in Marietta, Georgia before furthering his education at Millsaps College, Georgia State University, and the University of Georgia. He had a distinguished career, beginning as a Program Administrator at IBM, then serving as the Director of Administrative Services at the Chattooga County Board of Education, and finally as the owner of Cedar Hill Computer Services until his retirement.

Ken was deeply involved in his community and was a member of Summerville First United Methodist Church. His hobbies included cycling and golfing, which he pursued with passion and dedication. He was also a member of the group Friends of Sloppy Floyd for many years and served in several administrative positions throughout his membership. Additionally, he at one time was on the board of directors of the Chattooga County Literacy Council and once served as the chair for Chattooga Family Connection. He also volunteered his services to the Three Circles Foundation for a time and was formerly a volunteer fireman/first responder in the Holland Volunteer Fire Department.

Ken is survived by his wife, Karen Tribble; his daughter, Calliope Westbrooke; and his son, Alex Tribble. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank K. Tribble, Sr. and Plu Chandler Tribble, and his brother, Chandler M. Tribble.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Friends of Sloppy Floyd organization at the Sloppy Floyd State Park office or through the following link: https://friendsofgastateparks.org/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=41 

Contributions may also be made to Three Circles Foundation at: http://www.threecirclesfoundation.org/support. 

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge.

STEWARD

MRS. BARBARA JEAN STEWARD, age 81, of Trion, Georgia, passed away peacefully Monday, July 29, 2024, at her residence. Mrs. Steward was born in Trion, Georgia on December 22, 1942, a daughter of the late Paul T. and Grace Lee Hennon Blackmon. In addition to Parents, She was preceded in death by her husband the late Arnold Bruce Steward on May 29, 2019, and brothers the late Mitchell Blackmon and Infant Paul Blackmon. Mrs. Steward was a member of the East Trion Church of God.

Survivors include daughters, Kelly Karen Steward & Charles Larry Burrage, Jr. and Rebecca Jean Steward James; son, Randy Bruce & Bonnie Steward; grandsons, Colton Alexander Burrage and Grayson Noah James; sister, Bonnie Blackmon Bryant; brothers Willie Blackmon and Roy Blackmon; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, August 3, 2024 at 2 p.m. from the Graveside in West Hill Cemetery with Dr. Paul Mason and Dr. Randy Clayton officiating. Active Pallbearers will be Colten Burrage, Noah James, Charles Burrage, Jr., Tommy Smith, Tim Blackmon and Jason Blackmon. The Family will receive friends Saturday from 12:00 noon until 1:30 P.M. at Earle Rainwater Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Barbara Jean Steward who passed away Monday.

BULLARD

 MRS. FRANCES HIX BULLARD, age 92, of Calhoun, Georgia formerly of Chattooga County, Georgia, passed away Wednesday, July 24, 2024, afternoon in Calhoun.  Born in Trion, Georgia on July 4, 1932, she was a daughter of the late T. R. and Ida Mae Bennett Hix.  Mrs. Bullard was a member of the Meadowdale Baptist Church in Calhoun Georgia.  Frances was a homemaker and excellent baker, you were really special if you had her tea cakes and red velvet cake.  She traveled the US as a military wife with her husband in the USAF.  She also went on many trips with the Gadabouts in Calhoun and made many friends. Frances had one hobby and one only...shopping at Belks and she was expert at it!   In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by husband, the late Hugh M. Bullard, brothers, Kenneth (Yvonne) Hix, brothers-in-law, Harbin Davis, Jack Lanier, Johnny Bullard, and Austin Moore.

Surviving are son, Robert M. (Brenda) Bullard; grandson, Jason R. (Marcy) Bullard; great grandchildren, Beau Bryant Bullard and Sydney Claire Bullard all of Calhoun; sisters, Charlotte Davis of Calhoun, Pat Lanier of LaFayette, Evelyn (Bobby) Hegwood of Chattanooga, Marilyn Moore of Summerville, Sandra (Glenn) Garner of Rock Spring, Melba Jean (David) Underhill of Virginia Beach; brother, Larry Hix of Subligna; sister-in-law, Mary Bullard; several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 27th, at 1:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Rev. Danny Berry officiating, interment in Subligna Cemetery. Active Pallbearers Jason Bullard, Beau Bullard, Bobby Hegwood, Larry Hix, Kent Moore, and Rich Holder. Special thank you to Morning Pointe Memory Care Staff and Employees and to Compassus Hospice. The Family will receive friends Saturday from 11:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. at the Funeral Home. Flowers are excepted or contributions may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association #922 East Morris St., Dalton, GA.-30720.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

TUCKER

Mrs. Martha Kay Tucker, age 73, of Menlo, GA, passed away peacefully in her home on July 14th, 2024. Mrs. Tucker was born on April 29th, 1951, in Trion GA at the old Trion Hospital near what is now the Town Hall. She attended Trion High School where she graduated in 1969 as Valedictorian. On December 23rd, 1970, she married Ralph Edward Tucker in the living room of their small home, thus beginning a lifetime partnership that lasted 53 and a half years. On January 19th, 1972, the couple had their first and only child, Eric Shane. Work ethic was very important to Martha as she held a number of jobs while in school and during the early part of her marriage. After the birth of her son, she took 6 years off to spend time with him and focus on her young family. When Shane began school in 1978, Martha interviewed for and was hired at Bigelow Sanford (later known as Karastan/Bigelow) where she continued working in the office for the next 12 years. During her tenure there, she received numerous awards and commendations (including the prestigious Textile Citizen of the Year Award) for her job performance and reliability.

Then, on February 20th, 1990, she switched careers and began working in the Chattooga County Commissioner's Office under Mr. Jim Parker. She eventually progressed to the position of County Clerk where she remained for the next 34 years until her official retirement on June 30th of 2024. During her time there, she worked for four different commissioners: the aforementioned Mr. Parker, Mr. Mike Dawson, Mr. Jason Winters, and the current commissioner, Mr. Blake Elsberry. She was known for her organizational skills, reliability, and integrity in serving the citizens of Chattooga County for almost three and a half decades. In addition to her work and family life, Mrs. Tucker was a founding member of Alpine Community Church which she attended for over 50 years. Her faith was strong and backed up by her many works. She taught Sunday School, led the youth group in various activities, organized Bible School, created Alpine's "Old Timey Day", and directed the youth Christmas program. She was also instrumental in the start-up of Alpine's Live Nativity Scene over 40 years ago, which has now grown to inspiring over 1,000 visitors per year during the Christmas Season. Mrs. Tucker was preceded in death by her father, Mr. Horace McWhorter, her mother, Ms. Hilda McWhorter, and a brother, Mr. Stacy McWhorter.

She is survived by her husband of over 53 years, Ralph Tucker; son, Shane Tucker and his fiance Gina McGuire; sister Janet Schram and her spouse Jimmy; brother Richie McWhorter; brother Tracy McWhorter and his spouse Lisa; brother Anthony McWhorter; sister-in-law Jeannie Tucker; sister-in-law Becky McWhorter; niece Heather Roberts; nephews Tyson McWhorter, Ben McWhorter, Hampton McWhorter, Will McWhorter, Owen McWhorter, and Jason Tucker; and great-nieces Hannah Stewart, Rayne McWhorter, and Jolie McWhorter.

A short service will be held for Mrs. Tucker at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, July 17th at Alpine Community Church with Pastor Jeremy Stroop officiating. The family will receive visitors at Alpine two hours prior to the service from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM. Interment will follow at Alpine Cemetery with Richie McWhorter, Tracy McWhorter, Anthony McWhorter, Andy Roberts, Tyson McWhorter, Will McWhorter, and Charles Davis as active pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers include all members and attendees of Alpine Community Church and the employees of the Chattooga County Commissioner's Office.

"Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate". Proverbs 31:31.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

HOGUE

MR. HOWARD EUGENE HOGUE, age 70, of Trenton, Georgia formerly of Chattooga County, passed away Monday, July 8, 2024, in a Trenton Rehab Center. A native of Dalton, Georgia, He was born to the late Fred Deforest and Audra Mae Corbin Hogue on April 16, 1954. Mr. Hogue was a retired metal fabricator for J. Bar Tractor. In addition to Parents, was preceded in death by sisters, the late Freddie Mae Wilson and Rebecca Diane Wright and brothers, the late Paul Hogue, Goldman Hogue, John Hogue, Thurman Hogue, Robert Hogue, and Charlie Hogue.

Surviving are sons, Michael Hogue and Buster & Jerica Hogue; brothers, Calvin Hogue and Dewey Hogue; grandchildren, Madison, Hayden, Malachi, and Gage; several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held Thursday at 1:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Tony Samples officiating, interment in Summerville Cemetery. The Family will receive friends Thursday from 11:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Howard Eugene Hogue who passed away Monday.

LEE

MR. BILLIE JOE LEE, age 89, of Summerville, Georgia, passed away Sunday morning, July 7, 2024, in the local nursing home. Mr. Lee was born in Trion, Georgia on February 22, 1935 to the late Jesse C. and Della Wooten Lee. He was retired driver for Womeco Vending. Mr. Lee was a member of Four Mile Baptist Church, served previously in the National Guard; in addition to Parents was preceded in death by His wife, the late Maxeene Reynolds Lee, daughters, the late Kathy Lee and Janet Lee, sister, the late Ruby Lee, brothers, the late James Lee, Melvin Lee, and Ray Lee.

Surviving are son, Frankie (Debbie) Lee; grandchildren, Justin Lee and Stephanie Cavin; brother, Fay Lee; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral service will be held Tuesday, July 9th, at 7:00 P.M. from graveside in Summerville Cemetery with Rev. Joel Smith officiating, Active Pallbearers, David Reynolds, Ken Reynolds, Jeff Reynolds, Kevin Lee, Bradley Lee, and Bren Lee. Visitation will be Tuesday from 6:00 until 6:45 P.M. at the Funeral Home. The Family request, in lieu of flowers contributions be made to the Four Mile Baptist Church, in Billie Joe’s honor.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Billie Joe Lee who passed away Sunday morning.

SMITH

MRS. MARTHA FRANCIS LULA BELLE (LOU) SMITH, 85, of Lyerly, Georgia, passed away Tuesday evening, July 2, 2024, in a Rome hospital. Native to Sylvania, Alabama, She was born on January 18, 1939 to the late M. D. and May Lee Whitton Fairris. Mrs. Smith a member of Wayside Baptist Church and retired from Textile work in 2001. In addition to Parents, She was preceded in death by first husband, the Late Billy Ray Waldrop and sons, the Late Anthony Ray Waldrop, Curtis Waldrop, and Brad Waldrop.

Surviving are husband, Charles Smith; sons and daughters-in-law, Ronnie (Patty) Waldrop, Jeff Waldrop, and Nancy Waldrop; grandchildren, Cherish (Chris) Sutherland, Ron (Beth) Waldrop, Kyla (John) Condra, David Whitley, Joshua (Jackie) Fox, Jeffery (Dixie) Waldrop, Jr., Amanda Stark, Anthony (Maddie) Waldrop, Lucas- (Callie) Waldrop; 23 Great Grandchildren; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral service will be held Friday, July 5th, at 3:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Brother Lloyd Gilreath and Brother Chris Gibson officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 1 until 3 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Martha Francis Lula Belle Smith, who passed away Tuesday evening. 

CROY

RANDALL”RANDY” CROY passed away Monday, July 1, 2024. Randy was born August 28, 1957 in Trion, Georgia and was of the Pentecostal Faith. Randy was a member of, and played Trumpet for, Music City Brass, formerly as The Gospel Brass, from 1972 until the time of his death. He was nominated for Musician of the Year in 2005 by the C.C.M.A. which is the Christian Country Music Association. Randy was the former owner-operator of Summerville Florist, and was also a Bus Driver for the Chattooga County School System. He is preceded in death by first wife Jane Dendy Croy; father, Billy Croy, Sr.; brother, Billy “Little Joe” Croy, Jr.; brother and sister-in-law, Lamar “Marcy” and Kay Croy; maternal grandparents, Homer and Marie Sumner; paternal grandparents, Earl and Ruby Crider.

Randy is survived by his wife, Wanda McGuire Croy; mother Betty Sumner Croy; daughter and son-in-law, Amanda and Justin Brown; son and daughter-in-law, Joseph and Holly Croy; grandchildren, Ella Brown, Logan Brown, Annie Fountain; aunts and Uncles, Liz Sumner Jones and Larry Jones, James and Brenda Sumner, Tommy Sumner, Larry Greenman and several Cousins; special friends and Band Mates, Randy Clark and Lloyd Melton.

Memorial service will be held Saturday, July 6th, at 1:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Justin Ward officiating, inurnment in West Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the Family request contributions to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or The Wounded Warriors.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Randall “Randy” Croy.

WHITE

MR. CHARLES CHUCKY ALVIN WHITE, JR., age 57, of Summerville, Georgia passed away Saturday morning, June 29, 2024, in a Marietta, Georgia Hospice Center. A native of Summerville, He was born to the late Charles Alvin White, Sr. and Doris Jean Brown White on December 16, 1966. Mr. White was formerly an industrial worker.

Surviving are daughters, Crysten Clark and Brittani White; sisters, Elizabeth Carol Hartline and Sonya Mae White; Five Grandsons; several Nieces and Nephews.

Memorial service will be held Saturday, July 6th, at 11:00 A.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Barry Brown and Rev. Ralph Sumner officiating.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

KAY

James Bradley “Brad” Kay, May 11, 1960, passed away Thursday June 27, 2024. He was an avid reader and frequently visited the Trion Library at least weekly after he retired. He was a graduate of Lafayette High School and attended Northwestern Technical College where he received a certification in electronics. The family grew up in the Army and settled in Rock Springs where Brad worked farming in his early years with his dad. Later in life he became a caregiver for his mom Betty Jean Kay.

He is survived by his sister Kim Palmour (Albert) and brother Kenny Kay (Hannah) and a lot of nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. He loved Christmas. In lieu of flowers the family would prefer a donation to the Chattooga County Library (Trion)

Private Family Graveside service will be Tuesday, July 2nd, from Needmore Cemetery. Active Pallbearers Keith Morrison, Preston Morrison, Albert Palmour, Jeremy Guinn, Jared Guinn, and Mike Green.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

COLBERT

Mr. Stacy “Tweety” Colbert, age 51, of Farm Road, Trion, Georgia, passed away unexpectedly Friday afternoon, June 28, 2024, from a sudden attack. He was born in Rome, Georgia on April 20, 1973, the Son of Debby Gilleland Turner and Gary Colbert. He was a graduate of Trion High School, an insurance adjuster, and Farmer. Stacey was preceded in death by a sister, the late Carrie Colbert and step father, the late Tony Gilleland.

Surviving are His wife, Paige Colbert; mother, Debby Gilleland Turner; father & step mother, Gary & Karen Colbert; daughters, Jordyn Colbert and Morgan Colbert; step brothers, Ben Bandy, David Gilleland, Anthony Gilleland, and Chris Proctor; several Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins also survive.

Funeral service will be held Wednesday, July 3rd, at 12:00 noon from the Beersheba Presbyterian Church, with Pastor Sammy Simmons officiating. Pallbearers, Gene Ballard, Gary Woodburn, Scott Hogue, Ben Bandy, Jon Ledbetter, Sam Colbert, and Chris Wiglely. Visitation will be Tuesday from 6 until 8 P.M. at Earle Rainwater Funeral Home; also visitation Wednesday from 11:00 A.M. until noon at the Church. In lieu of flowers the Family request donations, in Stacy’s honor, to support the Family’s needs, use the QR code

 

 

 

         

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Stacy “Tweety” Colbert, who passed away Friday.

BRUMLOW

MR. ALBERT SIDNEY BRUMLOW, age 95, of Long Hollow Road, Trion, Georgia, passed away Monday afternoon, June 24, 2024, at his residence. A native of Calhoun, Georgia, He was born July 10, 1928, to the late Frank and Maude Slaughter Brumlow. Mr. Brumlow attended the Welcome Hill Baptist Church and was retired from the Spinning Department of Mount Vernon Mills. In addition to his parents, He was preceded in death by his wife, the late Clory Elizabeth Howell Brumlow, children, the late Jerry and Rebecca Brumlow, and several siblings.

Surviving are daughter, Jane Martin (Steve) Clowdis; son, Joel Brumlow; sister, Martha Brumlow Williamson; half sister, Sharon Guttuso; granddaughters, Clory Brumlow Beene and Mary Brumlow Abernathy; grandson, Tracey Martin; several Great Grandchildren, Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 27th, at 1:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Terry Shores officiating, interment in the family plot of West Hill Cemetery. Active Pallbearers, Tracey Martin, Jake Jarrett, Gavin Smith, Kase Roach, Logan Ramey, and Arley Beene; Honorary Pallbearers, Derry Martin, Brent Martin, Danny Strickland, Doug Gill, Jim Warnock, and Wade Gilreath. Visitation will be Thursday from 11:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Albert Sidney Brumlow.

CHILDERS

MRS. MARY LAURA ANN SMITH CHILDERS, age 85, of West Tate Road, Summerville, Georgia, passed away peacefully, at home, Thursday morning, surrounded by her Family. She was born in Chattooga County, Georgia on March 25, 1939, a daughter of the late Forney Wes Smith, Sr. and Alma Lee Brown Smith. Mrs. Childers was a Homemaker, member of Dry Valley Baptist Church where She was a Sunday School Teacher, Flower Lady, and Christmas Play Director. In addition to Parents, She was preceded in death by husband the late James Marvin Childers, Sr., sons-Larry Randell Childers and James Marvin (Jimmy) Childers, Jr., and grandson, Joshua James Childers.

Surviving are daughter, Susan Elaine (Paul) Dodd; sons, Stephen Landon Childers and Gary Lee Rape; daughters-in-law, Debbie Childers and Raynell Childers; sisters, Rebecca Ann Pettyjohn and Judy Lynne (Scott) Noel; brothers, Richard Franklin (Linda) Smith and Forney Wes (Tonia) Smith, Jr.; 14 Grandchildren, 34 Great Grandchildren, 6 Great Great Grandchildren; special friend, Dennis Crews; several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral and interment service will be held Saturday, June 22nd, at 11:00 A.M. from the Greenhills Memory Garden with Dr. Lee Hickman and Kendrick Shelton officiating.

Active Pallbearers Greg Hewitt, Alan Mowry, Jamie Childers, Keith Childers, Jason Childers, Kawyer Childers, and Landon Bailey. Visitation will be Saturday from 9:30 until 10:30 A.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Mary Laura Ann Smith Childers who passed away Thursday.

Shiflett

MRS. JAQUELYN GLENDA (JACKIE) SHIFLETT, age 66, of Menlo, Georgia, passed away Friday morning at Her residence. Mrs. Shiflett was born in Rome, Georgia on May 16, 1958, a daughter of the late John Clifford Holder and Patricia Lee Aycock Holder, who survives. Mrs. Shiflett was a Para Legal, retiring from Albert Palmer Law Firm in 2021 after thirty three years of service.

Surviving are Her husband, Tim Shiflett; mother, Patricia Holder; sons, Chris Shiflett and Michael Shiflett; Six Grandchildren; sisters, Kathy and Terri; brother, John; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced at a later date.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Jacquelyn Glenda (Jackie) Shiflett who passed away Friday.

HOGUE

MR. CHARLIE MONROE HOGUE, age 68, of Marks Road, Summerville, Georgia, passed away Tuesday morning in LaFayette, Georgia health care. He was born in Summerville, Georgia on January 12, 1956, a son of the late Fred Deforest and Audra Mae Hogue. Mr. Hogue was a retired textile worker and in addition to Parents, was preceded in death by his companion, Treva June Fowler and several Sisters and Brothers.

Surviving are sons, Charles Dewayne Hogue and Joshua Monroe McGuire; daughters, Kimberly Rollins, Rachel McGuire Dotson, and Shawna McGuire; brothers, Calvin Hogue, Howard Hogue, and Dewey Hogue; several Grandchildren, Nieces, and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 15th, at 1:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Tony Samples officiating, interment in Subligna Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be Fred Hogue, John Hogue, Michael Hogue, Buster Hogue, Ronnie Wilson and Corey Wright. Visitation will be held Saturday from 11:00 A.M. until the hour of service at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Charlie Monroe Hogue, who passed away Tuesday.

SCOGGINS

MR. HOWARD DALE SCOGGINS, age 74, of Summerville, Georgia, Subligna Community, passed away Monday afternoon, June 10, 2024, at his residence following an extended illness. Mr. Scoggins was born in Chattooga County, Georgia to the late Howard Smith Scoggins and Christine Pledger Scoggins on October 23, 1949. He was a member of the Perennial Springs Baptist Church and retired Salesmen.

Surviving are His wife, Dianne Scoggins; daughter and son-in-law, Shelley Scoggins (Adam) Hawkins; sons and daughters-in-law, Stephen Todd (Stacy) Barnes and Michael Dale (Dayna) Scoggins; sisters, Sandra Martin and Brenda (Ralph) Teems; brother, Larry (Pat) Scoggins; grandchildren, Abby Scoggins Hill (Terry), Alex Bonine, Caleb Barnes, Morgan Barnes, Mattison Hawkins (fiancée Gauge Burkett), Ally Hawkins, Jackson Willis, Judson Willis, great grandson, Rylan Scoggins; Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, June13th, at 2:30 P.M. from the Perennial Springs Baptist Church with Rev. Alton Stamey, Rev, Mike Smith, and Mr. Bobby Chisolm officiating, interment in Subligna Cemetery. Active Pallbearers Gauge Burkett, Alex Bonine, Caleb Barnes, James Evans, Bobby Chisolm, and Ken Prince. Honorary Pallbearers, the Family would like to thank Dr, Wayne Richey and his staff at Advent Health, Trion; Mr. Scoggins loved the staff and the Christian friends, he had in Dr. Richey. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5 until 8 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests donations to Todd and Kim Smith’s Mission at www.missionopportunities4christ.com

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Howard Dale Scoggins, who passed away Monday afternoon.

BICE

MR. BILLY JOE BICE, age 58 of Summerville, Georgia passed away Thursday, May 30, 2024 at his residence. He was born in Summerville, Georgia on June 7, 1965, son of the late Frank Bice Sr, and Vera Mae Bundrum Bice. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Regina Bice; brothers, Frank Bice, Jr., Leonard Fay Bice, Richard Lamar Bice, Terry Lee Bice and Roland Lee Bice, Sr.

Surviving are his children, Christopher Bice and Brandon Bice; sister, Cindy Williams and brother, Danny Ray Bice; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral Services will be held, Sunday, June 2, 2024, at 3 p.m. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Paul Bice officiating; interment in Summerville Cemetery. Active Pallbearers will be Johnny Reece, Jason Reece, Justin Reece, Michael Bice and Tyler Williams. Honorary Pallbearers will be staff members of Tapestry Hospice. Visitation will be held Sunday from 2 p.m. until the hour of service.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Billy Joe Bice.

LYDAY

MISS JUDITH WYNELL (JUDY) LYDAY, age 73, of Rome, Georgia, passed away Tuesday, May 28, 2024, in a Rome hospital. She was born in Fort Payne, Alabama on July 16, 1950, to the late Edmond Taylor (T.) Lyday and Lois Cash Lyday. Miss Lyday was a graduate of Chattooga High School and received her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from University of West Georgia; afterward had a career with Georgia DFACS, where she dedicated her life helping the elderly.

Surviving are aunts, Clara Bozemen and Martha Hulgan; several First Cousins, several Special Friends including “Little Gril” Emily Self.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, June 1st, at 3:00 P.M. EST, from Graveside in Bankhead Chapel Cemetery, with Rita Galloway, Rev. Harold Helton, and Emily Self officiating. Active Pallbearers Brandon Galloway, Derek Buffington.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

CALDWELL

 Mrs. Louise Brady Caldwell passed peacefully on May 22, 2024.  Mrs. Louise was Christian by faith and a member of the Perennial Baptist Church.  A dedicated wife, mother, sibling, and small-town philanthropist. She loved family, friends, and the area of Lyerly, Georgia where she was born, lived and worked her entire life.  Before retirement she was a lifelong seamstress and co-owner of Lyerly House of Fabrics.  Known locally as ‘The Fabric Lady’.  Mrs. Louise taught sewing to beginning homemakers and frequently would anonymously stitch baby clothing, prom dresses, dolls and other garments for the benefit of those in need or those without her sewing expertise.  She donated the Old Town Hall building to be used as for the future Lyerly Community Center.  She also donated several acres of land to expand the town park to approximately double the original size.

Mrs. Caldwell was born September 10,1929, the eldest of seven children. She was preceded in death by her parents; Michael Chele and Annie Belle Ragland Brady, husband Hill, daughter Rose Anne Woodall, and siblings Katherine, Andrew, and Jo Anne.  Surviving are her son, Michael Caldwell (Peggy); sisters, Evelyn Rinehart (Ralph) and Barbara Everett (Clint); brother, Harry Brady (Carol) and former son in law, Lamar Woodall; Grandsons, Christopher Woodall (Tina), Matthew Caldwell (Kathryn), Errynn Woodall (Jessica), Brent Caldwell (Meghan), and Kyle Caldwell (Mary Beth); Eight great grandchildren plus numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.  Special recognition is extended to her nephew Robert (Robby) Allen who lovingly cared for his Aunt Louise for many years!  Appreciation from the family to Mrs. Peggy Cordell who served as caregiver and a special friend.

A memorial celebration of life will be held Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 10 AM (EDT), from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Reverend Alton Stamey officiating and special comments from Paster John Mann. In lieu of flowers the family requests a contribution to a charity of one’s choice.

STRICKLAND

MR. JERRY LEE STRICKLAND, SR., age 86, of Summerville, Georgia, passed away Thursday evening, May 23, 2023, in Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia. He was born in Thomaston, Georgia to the late Wilson Lee and Lucille Robinson Strickland, on July 6, 1937. Mr. Strickland was a member of the Menlo First Baptist Church, a Veteran of the U. S. Navy, and was a retired store clerk for the Pure Stop. In addition to Parents, He was preceded in death by his wife, the late Martha Wofford Strickland in 2015, sisters & spouse, Evelyn and Horace Williams and Bernice Walters two brothers the late Ernie L. Strickland and Joseph Lamar Strickland.

Surviving, step son, Kevin and Dana Baker; grandchildren, Blake Baker, Haley Baker, Kyle Baker; special friends, Dana Hughes, Louis Parrill, and Simon Parrill; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 28th, at 2:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Rev. Harold Helton officiating, interment in Ami Cemetery. Pallbearers are Thomas Waller, Joshua Jennings, Greg Williams, Barry Williams, Louis Perrill, and Simon Parrill. Visitation will be Tuesday from 12:00 noon until 2:00 P.M. at The Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Jerry Lee Strickland, who passed away Thursday.

APPELBAUM

Arthur Frank Appelbaum, 82, of Homosassa, FL, passed away at home on May 15, 2024, after an extended illness. He was born in Baltimore, MD, on August 3, 1941, the son of the late Bennie and Mollie Appelbaum. He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Arlene, whom he met while completing his Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education at the State University of New York at New Paltz. In addition to Arlene, Arty is survived by his son, Dr. Jeff (Karen) Appelbaum, of Trion, GA, and his daughter, Amy (Mike) Mihalchik, of Poughkeepsie, NY, as well as grandchildren, Max and Brooke Appelbaum and Sydney Mihalchik. He is also survived by his sisters, Linda (Bob) Glickstein and Phyllis (Jerry) Stein; nephews and niece Steven (Anne) Glickstein, Daniel (Toni) Glickstein, Michelle (Cary) Berman, Jason (Bethany) Stein, and several great nieces and nephews. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who supported his family unfailingly and took great pride in them, attending as many milestone events as travel allowed.

After completing his degree at SUNY New Paltz, Arty became a teacher in the Chappaqua Central School District, where he taught all grades of elementary school during his 37-year career at Roaring Brook Elementary School. He spent the majority of his years teaching first grade, because he loved watching the growth of his students during the year, and he impacted the lives and futures of hundreds of children in his nurturing classroom environment. In addition, he served as the New York State United Teachers chapter treasurer for many years, while also working as the Sunday School Superintendent at Temple Beth-am in Yorktown Heights, NY. Arty retired from teaching in 1999, and in 2000 he and Arlene moved to Homosassa, FL, where they became involved in the leadership of the Nature Coast Orchid Society, made many close friends, and participated in several community activities.

A celebration of his life will be held on Monday, May 20 at Macrini-Wilder Funeral Home in Homosassa, Florida, with interment at West Hill Cemetery in Trion, GA On May 25 at 11am.

HAMBY

MR. EDWIN HILL HAMBY, age 91, passed away Monday, May 13th, 2024, at his Beavers Road residence in Summerville, Georgia. Mr. Hamby was born in Summerville, Georgia on September 29th, 1932, to the late Hugh Lee and Margaret Wofford Hamby. In addition to parents, he was preceded in death by siblings, the late Hughbelle Tucker, Joyce Hogg, Peg Tate Hogg, Margaret Thomas, Nelle Adamson; and grandson Luke Grogan. Surviving are his wife of 67 years, Frances Lucille Hamby; daughters, Fonda (Dwight) Morgan, Sonya (Ronnie) Dixon, Kim (Tim) Grogan; sister, Jane Stokes; brother, Jerry Hamby; nine grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

With faith in Christ, he was thankful for all the blessings of life. One of his greatest delights was his family. He was a loving and caring husband. He was a hard worker, sometimes working two jobs to provide for his wife and children. He loved when all his family was together, celebrating special events, and making his legendary waffles for breakfast. He loved farming, gardening, sitting on his front porch, fishing, planting flowers, collecting farm primitives, and racing cars. Notably, his favorite cars were his '50 Mercury and his '65 GTO. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran of the Korean War, member of the Summerville First United Methodist Church, and retired Terminal Manager for Mason & Dixon Trucklines.

Funeral services will be held Friday, May 17th, at 4:00 P.M. from The Chapel At Camp Hamby, with Rev. David Autry and Rev. John Wesley Privett officiating, interment in Garrett Cemetery. Pallbearers, Dwight Morgan, Ronnie Dixon, Tim Grogan, Joshua Morgan, Zachary Morgan, TJ Grogan, Ian Johnstone, Chris Cope, and Nick Henson. Visitation will be Thursday evening from 6 until 8 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr. Edwin Hill Hamby.