Margaret Louise Justice Maloy
Margaret Louise Justice Maloy, age 88, of Nicholls, passed away Sunday, June 8, 2003 at the Coffee Regional Medical Center in Douglas. A native of Webster County, Mississippi, she was the daughter of the late Thomas Leroy and Lora Mandy Ruff Justice. Mrs. Maloy was a homemaker, an associate of the Justice Lumber Company & Nicholls Machinery until her retirement. She was a member of Nicholls Baptist Church, where she served as a Sunday School Teacher for many years. Survivors include a daughter, Frances Perry McRae of Valdosta; grandchildren, Laura McRae (Steve) Hitchcock, Brice McRae (Jim) Tunison, both of Valdosta, Dr. Joan McRae (Ray) Kleinlein of Farmville, VA, Dr. Tom, III (Bethe) McRae of Cleveland, OH; a brother, Ralph (Janie) Justice of West Green; grandchildren, Jordan Hitchcock, John-Stephen Hitchcock, Jackson Hitchcock, Laura Tunison, Kate Tunison, Will Tunison, Marimac McRae and Thomas McRae, IV. Several nieces and nephews also survive. Funeral services were held Wednesday, June 11 at the Nicholls Baptist Church with Rev. Jerry Campbell and Rev. Brent Calloway officiating. Burial followed at the Sharon Cemetery in Telfair County. Active pallbearers included Dr. Marshall Tanner, Dr. Greg Tanner, Tim Tanner, Justin Justice, Mike Justice and Russell Giddens. Members of the Senior Adult Sunday-School Class of Nicholls Baptist Church served as honorary pallbearers. Sims Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Roswell Roz M. Hyers
Roswell Roz M. Hyers, age 65, of Mulberry, FL passed away on Wednesday, June 11, 2003. Mr. Hyers was retired from sales with Conway Southern Express in Atlanta. He was a member of Plant City Church of God, and a former member of Transportation Club in Atlanta. He was preceded in death by a brother, LaVell Hyers; a sister-in-law, Joyce Hyers of Brunswick; and two sisters, Delane Bagwell and her husband Forest of Virginia Beach, VA; and seven grandsons. Survivors include his wife, Joanne Swilley Hyers of Mulberry, FL; one son, Tony Hyers and his wife Christi of Brandon, FL; two daughters, Cynthia Ward of Brandon, FL, and Tara Werhoi and husband Jeff of Jonesboro; one brother, LaMorris Hyers and his wife Vydell of Waycross. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Plant City Church of God, c/o Joanne Hyers, PO Box 395, Mulberry, FL 33860. Patterson Funeral Home in Norcross was in charge of all arrangements.

Sandra Kay White
Sandra Kay (Kay Baby) White, age 49, of Alma died suddenly Friday evening, June 13, 2003 at Twin Oaks Nursing Home. A native of Bacon County, she was the daughter of the late Raynell and Odessa Dyal Lightsey. Survivors include a brother, Rev. James Lightsey and wife Tasha of Baxley; two sisters, Jackie Boatright and husband Vernon of Baxley, and Andrea Johnson and husband Steven of Alma; two nieces, Kacey Boatright and Carly Lightsey, both of Baxley; three nephews, Lucas and Kyle Boatright, both of Baxley and Bladen Johnson of Alma. Funeral services were held Monday morning, June 16 from the chapel of Crosby Funeral Home with Rev. Monroe Gill and Rev. Dudley Gordon officiating. Interment followed in Rose Hill Cemetery. Active pallbearers included Lucas and Kyle Boatright, Eugene and Bryan Dyal, Rev. Lowell Lee and Rev. James Lightsey. Staff and employee s of Twin Oaks served as honorary escorts. Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

Aubee Reeves Wheeler
Aubee Reeves Wheeler, age 81, of Alma died early Wednesday morning, June 11, 2003 at her daughters home in Waycross after an extended illness. A native of Appling County, she had lived in Bacon County most of her life. She was the daughter of the late William Edgar Reeves and Jennie Sellers Reeves, and was preceded in death by her husband, Wm McDonald (Don) Wheeler and a brother, Bill Reeves. Mrs. Wheeler was a retired school teacher after twenty-five years, a member of the Alma United Methodist Church, a member of the Philathea Sunday School Class and was a Sunday School Teacher and sang in the choir for many years. Survivors include four sons, Wm Craig Wheeler and wife Mary of Richmond, VA, Mark Wheeler and wife Dianne of Lulu, Bill Wheeler and wife Janis of Memphis, TN, and Kevin Wheeler and wife Kim of Roswell; two daughters, Sherry Lynn Wampler and husband Jim of Dayton, OH and Laurie Jones and husband Jimmy of Waycross; one brother, Rev. Donald Reeves of Holton, KS. Nine grandchildren also survive. Funeral services were held Friday afternoon, June 13 from the Alma United Methodist Church with Rev. Ronnie Howell officiating. Interment followed in Pinelawn Cemetery. Active pallbearers included Jimmy, Brandon and Mindy Jones, Alexander and Natlie Wheeler and Michael Lee. The Philathea Sunday School Class served as honorary escorts. Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

Alvin Smith
Alvin Smith, age 47, of Nicholls, passed away Sunday, June 01, 2003 at home following a brief illness. A native of Coffee County, he was the son of the late Pat Smith, Jr. and Mary Olive Wooten Smith. He was an auto mechanic and a Veteran of the United States Army. Survivors include his sons, Brandon Michael Smith, B. J. McQuaig and Shawn McQuaig, all of Nicholls; daughters, Heather Whittle of Douglas, Michele Joyce and Selena McQuaig, both of Nicholls, Aline Robertson of McRae; sisters, Sally Turner of Douglas, Alene Whitley and Darlene Kirkland, both of Nicholls; a brother, Randy Smith of Fortson; a special friend, Janice Swails of Nicholls. Four grandchildren also survive. Funeral services were held Wednesday, June 4 at the Chapel of Sims Funeral Home with Rev. Scott Smith and Rev. Allen Peacock officiating. The special music was provided by David Kirkland, Patsy and Larry Spivey with Lois Mills, pianist. Burial followed at the Rocky Creek Church Cemetery near Broxton. Active pallbearers included Jonathan Smith, Jesse Smith, Josh Kirkland, Ed Taylor, Wesley Smith, B. J. McQuaig, Charlie Brown Smith and Timothy Whitley. Sims Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

David Bobby Davis, Sr.
David Bobby Davis, Sr., age 68, of Douglas, passed away Wednesday, June 4, 2003 at home following a brief illness. A native of Coffee County, he was the son of the late Milton James and Alene Carter Davis. Mr. Davis was a retired truck driver. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Debra Ann Davis. Survivors include his wife, Gwendolyn Spivey Davis of Douglas; sons, David Bobby (Donna Kay) Davis, Jr. of Nicholls, Richard Darrin Davis and Donald DeWayne Davis, both of Douglas; brothers, Billy Davis of Douglas, Doyle Davis and Jimmy Davis, both of Nicholls; grandchildren, Amanda Davis, Travis Davis, Bobbie D. Davis and John Davis. Funeral services were held Saturday, June 7 at the Wilsonville Church of God of Prophecy with Rev. Fred Morgan, Rev. Toby Gail and Rev. Charles Brown officiating. Special music was provided by Patsy and Larry Spivey, also by the congregation with Lois Mills as the pianist. Burial followed at the Roxie Mae Church Cemetery near Nicholls. Active pallbearers included Chris Vickers, Donny Pridgen, Tony Davis, Bryan Davis, Michael Smith, Jimmy Spivey and Calvin Spivey. Honorary pallbearers included Jerry Spivey, Joey Hennessey, John Coffee, John Hersey, Frances Williams, Chester Williams, Rob Smith, Leon Mancil, Ricky Gilliard & R. W. Spivey. Sims Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

John Leonard Meeks
John Leonard Meeks, age 57, of Nicholls, died Wednesday afternoon, June 4, 2003 in Shands Hospital in Jacksonville after an extended illness. A native of Coffee County, he was the son of the late Merton Meeks and Wannell Hall Meeks. Survivors include his wife, Trellis Waters Meeks of Nicholls; one son, Lee Meeks and wife Angie of Nicholls; one daughter, Teresa McElroy and husband Jim of Nicholls; five grandchildren, Wendy McElroy, Misty McElroy, Jimmy McElroy, Brittney O Neal and Robert Turner. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon, June 7 from the chapel of Crosby Funeral Home with Rev. Mark Thornton and Rev. Billy Ray Lee officiating. Interment followed in Roberts Cemetery. Active pallbearers included Gary Thornton, Brad Thornton, Bobby Taylor, Shane Smith, Shan O Gorman and Dennis Kornegay. Honorary pallbearers included Troy Taylor, Charlie Lott, Joe Cole, Tom Meeks, Roy Wilcox, Dr. Mary Jones and David White. Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

Marjorie G. Harrison
Marjorie G. Harrison, age 89, of Alma died Friday afternoon, June 6, 2003 in Twin Oaks Nursing Home after an extended illness. A native of Bacon County, she was the daughter of the late Emory L. Minor and Nora Gardner Minor. Marjorie was preceded in death by a daughter, Jackie M. Somborn; one sister, Dora Haynes and a brother, Hubert Minor. She was a member of Riverside Baptist Church in Nahunta. Survivors include her husband, William V. Harrison of Orlando, FL; one son, John Zierjack and wife Hilda of Nahunta; three step-sons, Van Harrison and wife Maureen of Tempe, AZ, David Harrison and wife Laurie of Deland, Fl and Tony Harrison and wife Kay of New Smyrna beach, FL; one step-daughter, Kane Boneic of Orlando, FL; one sister, Merle Smith of Alma. Thirteen grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren survive. Funeral services were held Monday morning, June 9 from the chapel of Crosby Funeral with Rev. Randy Wainwright and Rev. Michael Gibbs officiating. Interment followed in Rose Hill Cemetery. Active pallbearers included Sidney Smith, Steve Jones, Clay Lee, Brandon Carter, Charlie Rewis, and Hymerick Thomas. All those in attendance were considered honorary escorts. Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

Cecil Orvin
Cecil Orvin, age 59, of Alma died suddenly Saturday afternoon, June 7, 2003 at the Bacon County Hospital. A native of Appling County, he had lived in Bacon County most of his life. He was the son of the late Alexis Ray Orvin and Ella Mae Burke Orvin and was also preceded in death by two brothers, Ray (Buster) Orvin and Frank Orvin. Mr. Orvin was a member of Friendship Baptist Church and was a veteran of the Vietnam War while serving in the U.S. Army. Survivors include his wife of forty years, Sandra McDonald Orvin of Alma; one son, Marty Orvin and wife Michelle of Millen; one daughter, Misty Boatright and husband Michael of Alma; three grandchildren, Jared and Mallory Orvin, both of Millen and Austin Boatright of Alma; two brothers, Sam Orvin of Baxley and Bob Orvin of Savannah; five sisters, Faye Beck of Hazlehurst, Willie Altman of Alma; Winnie Carter of Atlanta, Elonor Vickery of Brandon, FL and Geneva Simmons of Baxley. Funeral services were held Tuesday morning, June 10 from the chapel of Crosby Funeral Home with Dr. Doug Carter, Rev. Mark Barth and Rev. Pet Hayes officiating. Interment followed in Pinelawn Cemetery. Active pallbearers included Trampous and Clint Turner, Wade Orvin, Rev. Steve Altman, Craig, Kevin and Keith Simmons, and Ben Lott, Jr. Honorary pallbearers included Ken Davis, Donnie Mosley, E.C. Lott, Monk Turner, Larry Jordan, Roger Turner, Speed Paulk, Ben Lott, Sr., Payne Copeland, Malcolm McNeill, Michael Hunter, Henry Bizzell, Roy Music, Ken Davis, Employees of Sandra s Restaurant, Hunting Club Buddies, Coffee Drinking Buddies and City and County Employee s and Steve Harrell. Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of all the arrangements.

Silas Newton Kinlaw
Silas Newton Kinlaw, age 88, of Alma died Friday evening, September 19, 2003 at the residence of his daughter in Pierce County. A native of Bacon County, he had lived the last year in Beulahland in Pierce County with his daughter and son- in- law. Mr. Kinlaw was a member of the Methodist Faith. He was the son of the late Jefferson Davis Kinlaw and Carrie Lee Kinlaw and was preceded in death by his wife, Lois Hardrick Kinlaw; three brothers, Jeff Lee Kinlaw, Jack Kinlaw and Jurell Taylor; and two sisters, Lottie Steedley and Bonnell Chancey. Survivors include a son, Stevie Kinlaw and wife Tammy of Alma; one daughter, Glenda Davis and Huey P. Sr. of Pierce County. Four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren also survive. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon, September 21 from the Chapel of Crosby Funeral Home with Rev. Tommy Davis officiating. Interment followed in Old Pine Grove Cemetery. Active pallbearers included David Taylor, Robert Taylor, Jeffery Kinlaw, Rock Angel, Denny Lee and Jackie Kinlaw. Honorary pallbearers included Richard Foskey, Dr. Frank Johnson, Ben Johnson, Verlon Carter, Jay Williams, Cameron O Neal, Sr., Rex Lee, Jimmy Lee, David Lee, Jimmy Davis, Ray Harris, Leroy Carver, Donald Wade, Russell Tanner, Donald Eason, Troy Stewart, Olin Aldridge and Munk Turner. Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of all the arrangements.

Courtney C. Arsenault
Courtney C. Arsenault, age 10, of Alma, died accidentally Saturday evening, September 20, 2003 in Coffee County. A native of Bacon County and a fifth grade student at Bacon County Elementary School, she was a member of New Lacy Church of God. Survivors include her father, Gerald Arsenault of Alma; step-mother, Lorie Arsenault of Alma; mother, Jennifer Kirey of St. George, FL; paternal grandfather, Ronnie G. Arsenault of Jacksonville; step-paternal grandmother, Betty Arsenault of Jacksonville, FL; maternal grandparents; Diane Good and maternal step-grandfather, Danny Good, both of Alma; maternal great-grandparents, Ivan and Janice Kirey of Jacksonville, FL; maternal great-grandparents; Buck and Bonnis Sweat of Alma; one brother; Kevin Hand of St. George, FL. Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon, September 25 at 2 p.m. at New Lacy Church of God with Rev. Calvin Lewis officiating. Interment will follow in Wolf-Pit Cemetery. Active pallbearers will include William Johns, Danny Douglas, Tommy Smith, Travis Hutchinson, Todd and Jonathan Hersey. All those in attendance will be considered as honorary escort. Crosby Funeral Home is in charge of all the arrangements.

Meagan Nelson
Meagan Nelson, age 14, of Wray died accidentally Saturday evening, September 20, 2003. A native of Coffee County and an eight grade student at West Coffee Middle School, she attended New Lacy Church of God in Alma. Survivors include her parents, Henry Elisha (BUM) Nelson, II and Rhonda Arsenault Nelson of Wray; paternal grandparents, H. E Nelson and Julie Hodge Nelson of Ambrose; maternal grandparents, Danny and Diane Good of Alma, and Ronnie Arsenault of Jacksonville, FL; one brother, William Henry Nelson of Wray. Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon, September 25 at 2 p.m. at New Lacy Church of God with Rev. Calvin Lewis and Rev. George Carroll Paulk officiating. Interment will follow in New Hope Cemetery in Coffee County. Active pallbearers will include Brandon and Ronald Worth, Danny Smith, Bud Wilson, Dennis Lytle and Dwain Stevens. All those in attendance will be considered as honorary escort. Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of all the arrangements.

Jackson Clarence Carter, Jr.
Jackson Clarence Carter, Jr. age 82, of Alma died Monday evening, September 25, 2003 at the Bacon County Hospital after a short illness. A lifetime resident of Bacon County, he was the son of the late Jackson Clarence Carter and Mary Vestal Jackson and was preceded in death by a brother; Roy Henry Carter, Sr. Mr. Carter was a retired farmer and Seaboard Coastline employee. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. Jack served as both a member and chairman of the B.C. Board of Education for thirty two years, was one of the founding members of the B.C. Hospital Authority in 1952. He was involved in the First Baptist Church of Alma, having served as a deacon, deacon chairman and Sunday School superintendent. Survivors include his wife, Verlene Miles Carter of Alma; his children, Jacquelyn Carter Johnson and husband Zachary M. Johnson, James Henry Carter and wife Bertha West Carter and Anna Jeanene Carter Gilder and husband Fred Williams Gilder of Glenwood; his grandchildren, Jacquelyn Lee Johnson, Jennifer Johnson Pope and husband Dr. Wood Pope, Zachary Morris5 Johnson III, Homer Jackson Johnson and wife Misty Carter Johnson, Crystal Gayle Carter, Cherry Lynn Carter, Sarah Anna Gilder, Abby Louise Gilder, and Allie Brinn Gilder. One great granddaughter, Claudia Malone Pope, also survives. Funeral services were held Thursday morning, September 18 at the First Baptist Church. Interment followed in Rose Hill Cemetery. Active pallbearers included Adam Rogers, Jason Richardson, Dr. Harrison Carter, Jackson Johnson, Morris Johnson and Dr. Wood Pope. All those in attendance were considered honorary escorts. Crosby Funeral Home was charge of all the arrangements.

John R. (Buster) Burnette
John R. (Buster) Burnette, age 20, of Alma, died suddenly early Friday morning, September 12, 2003. A native of Coffee County, he had lived most of his life in Bacon County. Buster was a member of the Southside Church of God. Survivors include his father and step-mother, John Randall and Laura Williams Burnette of Hazlehurst; his mother and step-father, Christy Crosby Spell and Pete Spell of Alma; four brothers, Trent Boatright of Alma, Melvin Spell of Foxworth, MS, Adam and Will Burnette, both of Hazlehurst. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon, September 15 at the Southside Church of God with Rev. Mark Carver and Rev. Walter Shuman officiating. Interment followed in the Hazlehurst City Cemetery. Active pallbearers included Chris Tobus, Kevin Carver, Chase Lee, Andy Andrews, Tony Tony Snell and Anthony Anderson. Honorary escort included Paul, James, Clay and Cully Crosby, Josh Campbell, Rody Moore, Greg Burnette, Lee Phillips, Trent Boatright, Andy Johnson and Mark Stevens. Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of all the arrangements.

Mary Ellen Meeks
Mary Ellen Meeks, age 71, of Alma died early Wednesday morning, September 10, 2003 at the Bacon County Hospital after a short illness. A native of Ware County, she had lived most of her life in Bacon County. Mary was the daughter of the late Lloyd N. Johnson and Mattie Odum Johnson. Survivors include her husband, Jimmy Meeks of Alma; one daughter, Dr. Lou Ellen Hutcheson and husband Jeffery of Alma; two brothers, L. N. Johnson, Jr and R.T. Johnson, both of Alma; three sisters, Bert Jeffers of Minneapolis MN, Debbie Parker and Jane Powell, both of Alma; one grandson, Brandon Hutcheson of Alma. Funeral services were held Friday afternoon, September 12 at the First Baptist Church with Rev. Richard Johnson officiating. Interment followed in Pinelawn Cemetery. Active pallbearers included Ben Burkett, Lloyd Johnson, Charlie Powell, Dan and Tom Parker, and Blake Williams. All those in attendance will be considered honorary escorts. Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

Dorothy (Dot) Tyre
Dorothy (Dot) Tyre, age 78, of Alma died Tuesday afternoon, September 9, 2003 at Twin Oaks Nursing Home after an extended illness. A native of Nassau County, FL, she had lived in Bacon County since 1940. She was the daughter of the late Dewey C. Anderson and Lucy Phillips Anderson. Mrs. Tyre was employed by B. C. Moores for sixteen years and was a member of Inman Creek Primitive Baptist Church. Survivors include her husband, Warren Tyre of Alma; two sons, Craig Tyre of Clearwater, FL and Gary Tyre and wife Lisa of Vidalia; one daughter, Elaine Huffines and husband Bob of Tullahoma, TN; one brother, Glen Anderson of Warner Robins; a sister, Joyce Douglas of Alma; four grandchildren; Jon Golezynski of Orlando, FL, Marc Golezynski of Tullahoma, TN, Brian and Stephen Tyre, both of Alma; two great-grandchildren, Christian Golezynski of Tullahoma, TN and Trinity Tyre of Alma. Funeral services were held Friday morning, September 12 from the Chapel of Crosby Funeral Home with Elder Jack Anderson, Elder Junior Tidwell and Rev. Brian Tyre officiating. Interment followed in Pinelawn Cemetery. Active pallbearers included Curtis Hall, Shorty Anderson, Marc Golezynski, Reggie Banks, Randy Phillips, Charles Douglas, Henry Golezynski, and Jon Golezynski. Honorary pallbearers included Dr. Charles Bagley and staff and Twin Oaks Nursing Home Staff and Employee s. Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

Ocie (Nanny) Cauley
Ocie (Nanny) Cauley, age 101, died Sunday evening, September 14, 2003 at her daughter s residence in Brunswick after a short illness. A native of Appling County, she had lived most of her life in Bacon County. The past five years, she lived with her daughters in Brunswick. Mrs. Cauley was a member of Pine Level Free Will Baptist Church. She was the daughter of the late James Manning Medders and Ella Agnes Crosby Medders, wife of the late William. Grady Cauley. She was also preceded in death by four brothers, Dewey, Silas, John and Lonnie Medders, and four sisters, Macie Smith, Okella Courson, Cleetie Teston and Delilah Miller. Survivors include two sons, Virgil Cauley and wife Aruex of Blackshear, and Alton Cauley and wife June of Baxley; two daughters, Vera Wheeler and Betty Jean Henderson, both of Brunswick; two sisters, Oletha Taylor and Linne Miles, both of Baxley. Fifteen grandchildren, forty-two great grandchildren and twelve great-great-grandchildren also survive. Funeral services were held Wednesday, September 17 at Pine Level Free Will Baptist Church with Rev. James Ursery, Rev. Eric Brown and Rev. Alex Seckelich officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family ask donations be made to The Brunswick Christian Academy at 17 North Darien Highway 31525 or to the Free Will Baptist Bible College 3606 West End Ave., Nashville, TN 37211. Active pallbearers included Cal Henderson, Mark and Jeff Cauley, John Gaskins, Uriah Kimmig, Brandon Joyner and Ben Graham. All those in attendance will be considered as honorary escort Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of all the arrangements.

Norman E. Boatright
Norman E. Boatright, age 76, of Scuffletown, died Sunday evening, September 7, 2003 at the Coffee Regional Medical Center after an extended illness. A native of Bacon County, he was the son of the late Cash and Mattie Hughes Boatright. Mr. Boatright was a retired farmer. He was also preceded in death by four brothers, Clonie, Grady, J.R. and Islam Boatright; and by two sisters, Ester Lightsey and Pearl Lightsey. Survivors include his wife, Luella Hall Boatright of Scuffletown; five sons, Vernon Boatright and wife Jackie of Baxley, Edward Boatright and wife Karen of Nicholls, Larry E. Boatright, Danny (Boonie) Boatright and Bobby N. Boatright and wife Mimi, all of Scuffletown; one daughter, Denise (Sissy) Barber and fianc Wendell Justice of Waycross, and one brother; Clifton Boatright of Alma; two sisters, Norene Loper and Ruth Purcell both of Bristol. Fifteen grandchildren, four step-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren also survive. Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon, September 11 from the chapel of Crosby Funeral Home with Rev. Roy King and Rev. R. B. Gaskins officiating. Interment will be in The Jesus Church Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be; Donnie, Ardel, Ronnie and Freddy Boatright, James, Jerry and Curtis Lightsey. Honorary escort will be; Dr. Sinclair and Staff, Willard, Ardel, and Durell Lightsey, Thomas Metts, Home Health Care, Lucille Nettles, John Smith, Marty Hilton, Willard Rowland, John and Mary Blanton. Crosby Funeral Home is in charge of all the arrangements.

Emil Joseph (Jimmey) Sobala
Emil Joseph (Jimmey) Sobala, age 83, of Alma, died early Friday morning, September 5, 2003 at the Bacon County Hospital after a short illness. He was son of the late Valentino Sobala and Stella Janik Sobala. Emil was a native of Lacawanna, NY, but had lived in Alma since 1978. Mr. Sobala was a veteran of WW II serving in the U. S. Navy and was retired from the Miami Police Dept. after twenty five years of service. Survivors include his wife, Bonnell Brown Sobala of Alma; one son, Ron L. Sobala of Brunswick; one brother, Al Sobala of Lacawanna, NY; two grand sons, Christopher Sobala of Brunswick and Jason Sobala of Miami, FL. A memorial service was held Wednesday afternoon, September 10 from the Chapel of Crosby Funeral Home. Crosby Funeral Home is in charge of all the arrangements.

Wilma Lee Martin Hill
Wilma Lee Martin Hill, age 78, of Jacksonville, FL died early Wednesday morning, August 27, 2003 at her residence after an short illness. A native of Bacon County, she was the daughter of the late James F. Martin and Josephine Britt Martin and was preceded in death by a son, Lawrence Roger Hill, one brother, James Terrell Martin and one sister, Peg Martin Briggman. Survivors include her husband,L. L. Hill of Jacksonville, FL; one son, Billy Shane Hill of Jacksonville, FL; one daughter; Cheryl Hooker and husband Buddy of Pulaski; two sisters, Betty M. Cloud of Lincolnton, and Maddine M. Torgensen of VA. Five grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren also survive. Funeral services were held Friday morning, August 29 from the chapel of Crosby Funeral Home with Rev. Edmund Thrift officiating. Interment followed in Pine Lawn Cemetery. Active pallbearers included Chris Martin, Derrick Martin, Bo Murray, Robbie Murray, James Cloud and L. V. Wrice. All those in attendance were considered honorary escort. Crosby Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

Gary Steve (Cotten) Ryals
Gary Steve (Cotten) Ryals, age 46, of Alma died suddenly at his residence early Thursday morning, September 4, 2003. A native of Bacon County, he was the son of the late Lonnie Melton, Sr. and Dora Lee Ryals. Survivors include two sons, Steven J. Ryals and Danny Taylor, both of Alma; two grandchildren, Dalton Chase Ryals and Kaytlynn Marie Holland, both of Alma. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon, September 7 from the chapel of Crosby Funeral Home with Rev. Billy Mac Dyal officiating. Interment followed in Wesley Chapel Church Cemetery. Active pallbearers included James and Kyle Westberry, Tom and Lewis Mikell, Terry Meeks and James Bennett. All those in attendance were considered honorary escorts. Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

Ronnie O. Turner
Ronnie O. Turner, age 92, passed away Sunday afternoon, August 31, 2003 at the Bacon County Hospital. A native of Bacon County, he had lived in Bacon and Pierce County all of his life and was the son of the late Martin Asbery and Nancy Hughes Turner. Mr. Turner was a member of the Blackshear Church of God. He was the owner and operator of Ronnie s Barbecue and had also owned the Oakview Trailer Park. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mrs. Edna Pittman Turner; two sons, Maurice Gator Turner and James Ronald Runt Turner; one sister, Essie Lee Cameron; three brothers, Roscoe, Buddy, and J. Hugh Turner. Survivors include one sister, Earnie Kirkland of Blackshear; one brother, M.A. Shorty Turner Jr. of Woodbine; three grandchildren, Elizabeth Charles, Rene Mullins, and Stacey Turner. Two great grandchildren, one great great grandchild and several nieces, nephews and other relatives also survive. Funeral services were held Wednesday, September 3 at the Pearson-Treadwell Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Clinton Kearney and Rev. Calvin Lewis officiating. Interment followed in the Oakland Cemetery.. Pearson-Treadwell Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Marion C. Thomas
Marion C. Thomas, age 74, of Alma died early Wednesday morning, August 27, 2003 in the Coffee Regional Hospital after an extended illness. A native of Coffee County, she had lived most of her life in Bacon County. Mrs. Thomas was the daughter of the late Clyde Carter and Estelle Tanner Carter and was preceded in death by her husband, Amos Thomas by two children, Carter Bennie Thomas and David Clyde Thomas. Survivors include two daughters, Martha Allen and husband James of Alma and Rebecca Dennis and husband Michael of Baxley; four sisters; Wilma Jordan of Fitzgerald, Marie Pritchard of Waycross, Betty Stewart of Alma and Sue Kicklighter of Blackshear. Eight grandchildren and two great- grandchildren also survive. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon, August 30 at Campground United Methodist Church with Rev. Wendell Thomas, Rev. John Thomas and James Boyd officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery. Active pallbearers included Trenton and Jamie Stewart, Chris Allen, Brandon Dennis, Andrew Dubberly and Ryan Miles. All those in attendance will be considered honorary escort. Crosby Funeral Home were in charge of all arrangements.

Charles D. Taylor Sr.
Charles D. Taylor Sr., age 62, of Alma died early Thursday morning, August 29, 2003 after a lengthy illness. A native of Bacon County, he was the son of the late Tommie Lee Taylor and Frances Coley Taylor and was preceded in death by a son, Charles Denny Taylor, Jr. Mr. Taylor was a member of New Vision Congregational Survivors include his wife, Roxie Jannie Allen Taylor of Alma; three brothers, James (J.L.) Lee Taylor, Jerald (Duck) Taylor and Larry Taylor, all of Alma; three sisters; Jean Tyre of Jesup, Edith Johnson and Rhonda Taylor, both of Alma. Several nieces and nephews also survive. Funeral services were held Saturday morning, August 30 at New Vision Church with Rev. Therman Hayes officiating Interment will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery. Active pallbearers included Stevie, Timmy, Greg and Tony Johnson, Kristin Parker, Jay Parker and Steve Griffin. All those in attendance were considered honorary escorts. Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

Gregory Lee Taylor
Gregory (Greg) Lee Taylor, age 54, of Alma died suddenly Friday afternoon, August 22, 2003 at his farm. A native of Bacon County, he attended Alma First Baptist Church. Greg was grandson of late paternal grandparents Luther W. (Woot) Taylor, Sr. and Oveda Anderson Taylor and late maternal grandparents Hobart H. Lee and Kitty Sykes Lee. Survivors include his parents, L. W. Taylor, Jr. and Norma Lee Taylor of Alma; his wife, Laverne Bodrey Taylor of Alma; two sons, James Phillip Herrington and wife Cristina of Live Oak, FL and Lee Weston Taylor of Alma; one brother, Jonathan Martin (Marty) Taylor and wife Melinda of Marietta; and one grandchild; Emmaleigh Hope Herrington of Live Oak, FL. Several nieces and nephews also survive. Funeral services were held Monday morning, August 25 at First Baptist Church with Rev. Lance Wade, Rev. Richard Johnson and Rev. Brett Howell officiating. Interment followed in Pine Lawn Cemetery. Active pallbearers included Harold Bodrey, Gene Bodrey, Johnny Bodrey, Jerry Coffee and Sam Graham. All those in attendance will be considered honorary escorts. Crosby Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

Larry J. Taylor
Larry J. Taylor, age 60, of Alma died, Thursday evening, August 21, 2003 at his residence after an extended illness. A native of Bacon County, he was the son of the late Agnes Crapps Taylor. Mr. Taylor was a general contractor for many years. Survivors include his father, Estell Taylor of Alma; his wife, Sherry Hyers Taylor of Alma; one son, Bradley Taylor and wife Tyrane of Alma; two daughters, Tammy Taylor and husband Donnie Jack and Brandi Taylor, all of Alma; two sisters; Carolyn Medders and husband Huel of Baxley and Betty Kirkland and husband Ronnie of Nicholls; four grandchildren, Chris Anderson, DeeAnna Taylor, Shaundra Taylor and Chase Taylor, all of Alma. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon, August 24 at the chapel of Crosby Funeral Home with Rev. Fred Morgan officiating. Interment followed in Elizabeth Chapel Church Cemetery. Active pallbearers included Keith and Stacy Kirkland, Scott Medders, Grooms Smith, Huey Dubberly and Danny Harrell. Honorary pallbearers included Julian Mincey, Mike Harrell, Chess and Diane Bennett, Dr. Charles Bagley, Glenn Moore, Rev. Chester Williams and wife Jerri, Susan Smith, Wayne Williams, Hinson and Mary Jordan, Home Health Care Employees, Larry Taylor, Noah and Bonnie Carter, Roy and Glenda Sue Thomas, Huel Medders, Jr., Denny Carroll Taylor and James and Charles Carter. Crosby Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

Lunie Belle (Pat) Norris
Lunie Belle (Pat) Norris, age 97, died Monday, August 18, 2003. A lifelong resident of Oconee County, she was the daughter of the late William and Nannie Baugh Crown, and was also preceded in death by six brothers and sisters. Mrs. Norris and her late husband operated Len s at the D & L Shopping Center for a number of years. She was a member of Bogart Baptist Church and had been a resident of Magnolia Estates for the past four years. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Pat and Dave DeRamus of Bogart; grandchildren, Len and Marie DeRamus of Watkinsville, Sharon and Lane Wade of Alma and Michelle and David Eades of Bogart; nine great grandchildren, Kimberly and Joshua DeRamus, Bryan, Bradley, Brandon, Briana and Brooklyn Wade and Parker and Shellby Eades. A number of nieces and nephews also survive. Funeral services were held Thursday, August 21 at Lord and Stephens Chapel, West with Rev. Bill Hayes, Charles Jones and Ted Tedder officiating. Interment followed in Evergreen Memorial Park. Lord and Stephens Funeral Home of Bogart was in charge of all arrangements.

Fay Saraglyn Elder Moore
Fay Saraglyn Elder Moore, age 70, of the Macedonia Community in Greene County, died Wednesday, August 20, 2003 at Putnam General Hospital. A native Oconee County, she was the daughter of the late Inus Cornelius Elder and Emma Thelma Robison Elder, and was also preceded in death by two brothers, Charles Elder and Jack Elder. Mrs. Moore was a homemaker, and she and husband had operated a family dairy in the Macedonia Community for the past fifty-two years. She was an election poll officer, a member of the University of Georgia Co-op Creamery and a member of Macedonia Baptist Church where she taught Training Union. Survivors include her husband, Ralph Alvin Moore of the Macedonia Community; two daughters, Dale Dianne Moore Bennett of Alma, and Carolyn Teresa Moore Churchwell and husband Barry Gene of Maxeys; four grandchildren, Chad David Bennett and wife Angel, Adam Clay Bennett and wife Ivey, Dustin Gene Churchwell and wife Amanda and Nancie Joyce Churchwell; and two great grandchildren, Alexis Betsill and Dustin Kyle Churchwell. Funeral services were held Friday, August 22 at Macedonia Baptist Church with Rev. Joel Sorrow officiating. Burial followed in the Macedonia Cemetery. Active pallbearers include Allen Moon, Wilbur H. Moore, Jr., Dewitt Price, Kevin Nichols, E.G. Billy Copelan, Jr. and Stuart Nichols. Honorary pallbearers included C.W. Buchanan, James Price, David Rice and Joe Vaughn. McCommons Funeral Home of Greensboro was in charge of all arrangements.

J.D. Wade
J.D. Wade, age 80, of Alma died Tuesday, August 19, 2003 in Spalding County. A native of Pierce County, he had lived in Bacon County most of his life. He was the son of the late Peyton Wade and Mamie Sweat Wade. Mr. Wade was a veteran of WWII serving in U.S. Army. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Bernice Benjamin Wade; a brother, Marvin Wade; and a sister, Luna White. Survivors include a son, Danny Wade of Atlanta; a daughter, Debbie Beckham of Atlanta; three brothers, Clayton, A.C. and Harold Wade, all of Alma; three sisters, Jessie Mae Carter, Leola Hiers and Arlene Good, all of Alma; two grandchildren, Shelley and Brittany Wade. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon, August 23 at Corinth Free Will Baptist Church with Rev. Dale Yarborough and Rev. Steve Waldron officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery. Nephews served as active pallbearers, and all those in attendance were considered honorary escorts. Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

Claude Inman O Steen, Jr.
Claude Inman O Steen, Jr., age 51, died Sunday, August 17, 2003 in an airplane crash. A native of Alma, he was employed with Delta Airlines, Inc. for twenty-five years. Mr. O Steen was an active members of AOPA and participated in the Young Eagles program of EAA. Claude was known by everyone for his love of people and his eagerness to help others. He will be remembered by all those who touched his life and were touched by him. Survivors include his parents, Claude and Geneva O Steen of Alma; children, Heidi, Heather and Claude, III, and their mother, Beverly O Steen, all of Ft. Worth, TX; his love and life partner, Dawn Spillner; sisters, Shirley Worth and Peggy Taylor; and a brother, Kevin O Steen. A memorial service was held Thursday, August 21 at the Delta World Headquarters Learning Center in Atlanta. A second memorial service was also held Saturday, August 23 at New Union Church in Alma.

Charlie J. Diprima, Sr.
Charlie J. Diprima, Sr., age 72, of Alma died suddenly at his residence Sunday morning, August 10, 2003. A native of Rome, he had lived in Bacon Co. since 1968. He was son of the late Sam Diprima and Ivey Jones Diprima and preceded in death by a son, Charlie Diprima, Jr.; two brothers, Neno and Romeo Diprima. Mr. Diprima was owner and operator of Diprima Boots for many years. He was also a member of St. Raymonds Catholic Church. Survivors include his wife of fifty-six years, Leona Cribb Diprima of Alma; one son, Adam Mark Diprima of Alma; two daughters, Patricia Ann Cain of Georgetown and Linda Jane Trammell of Rome; two brothers, Sam Diprima, Jr. of Rome, and Lewis Diprima of Calhoun; one sister, Madeline Perron of St. Paul, MN. Six grandchildren and one great-grandchild also survive. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon, August 12 from the chapel of Crosby Funeral Home with Rev. Mark Carver officiating and a eulogy by Ronnie Cain. Active pallbearers included Ronnie Cain, Pete Trammell, Sonny Adams, Ed Taylor, David Taylor and Linton Carter. Honorary escorts included Dale Morris, E.J. Davis, Harriett Carter, Eddie and Cliff Andrews, David and Faye King, Gene Albritton and Shellie Ray. Crosby Funeral Home was in charge of all the arrangements.

Charles E. Barrs
Charles E. Barrs, age 69, of Brunswick died Friday, August 8, 2003 at his residence. A native of Statesboro, but he grew up in Alma. He had been a resident of Brunswick for the past thirty-three years. Mr. Barrs was a retired construction worker, having worked for Anderson Construction Co. and Norman Reu Co. He had served two years in the U.S. Army and was of the Baptist faith. Survivors include his wife, Dorothy R. Barrs of Brunswick; a daughter, Candy D. Anderson of Brunswick; a son, Christopher E. Barrs of Brunswick; five brothers, William Barrs of Lancaster, SC., Ronald Barrs, Wayne Moody, Jay Moody and Paul Moody, all of Jacksonville, FL; three sisters, Nelda Nornbeck of Darien, Vickie Whitley of Middleburg, FL, and Velma Moody Smith of Mac Clenny, FL. Twelve grandchildren, two great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews also survive. Graveside services were held Sunday, August 10 from the Chapel Park Cemetery with Greg Gibbs officiating. Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home was in charge.

Randal Edmond Randy Hiers
Randal Edmond Randy Hiers, age 46, died Wednesday, August 6, 2003 due to a work related accident in Fitzgerald. A native of Ware County, he was the son of the late Clyde Alton Hiers. Mr. Hiers was employed by M.R.C.X. (Mobile Rail Cleaning) of Blackshear. Survivors include his wife, Pam Hiers of Waycross; a son, Randal Hiers and wife LeAnn of Coffee County; a daughter, Amanda Hiers and husband Darryl of Coffee County; a step-daughter, April Brock of Waycross, four grandchildren, Austin, Skyler, Hannah Hiers and Gavin Jackson; his mother, Iris Jarrard Spivey of Waycross; three sisters, Wanda Scott and husband Ricky of Waycross, Angela Arksey of Michigan, and Teresa Nettles of Waycross; ten brothers, Clifton Hiers and wife Donna of Millwood, Terry Hiers and wife Lisa, and Anthony Nettles and wife Tracie, all of Fernandina Beach, FL, Wallace Hiers and wife Joyce of Blackshear, Jimmy Hiers and wife Vivian of Mershon, Arlon Hiers and wife Willene of Mershon, Kenneth Hiers of Mershon, Rev. Roger Worton and wife Cathy of Stark, FL, Clyde Alton Worton, Jr. of SC, and Billy Hires and wife Sandra of Waycross. Several nieces and nephews also survive. Funeral services were held Saturday, August 9 at the Music Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed in the Greenlawn Cemetery. Music Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

Brandy Nicole Haberkorn and Karen Hope Hawn
Brandy Nicole Haberkorn, 17 months, and mother Karen Hope Hawn, age 23, passed away Thursday, August 7, 2003 from injuries received from an automobile accident. Survivors include Brandy s father, Kenneth Haberkorn of Augusta; a sister, Rebbecca Haberkorn of Calhoun Falls, SC; two brothers, William Haberkorn of Calhoun Falls, SC, and Michael Ray Haberkorn of Waynesboro; grandparents, Ray and Shirley Haberkorn of PA, Doris Grubbs of SC, Walter and Susan Hawn of Jefferson, Joyce and Denny Smith of Waynesboro (formerly of Alma) and great-grandmother, Delease Grubbs. Several aunts and uncles also survive. Pallbearers included Randy Boatwright, Mike Boatwright, David Armour, Bill Hawn, Doug Black and Jarrett Dillingham. Funeral services were held Sunday, August 10 at Deloach-Kennedy Funeral Home in Waynesboro with Bishop Lamar Willis officiating. Interment followed at Bellevue Memorial Gardens. DeLoach-Kennedy Funeral Home of Waynesboro was in charge.

George M. Brantley, Jr.
George M. Brantley, Jr., age 77, died Friday, August 1, 2003 at Kent County memorial Hospital in Rhode Island after a lengthy illness. A veteran of WW II and Korean War, he had served in the Navy and retired as Chief Petty Officer, receiving several medals. Mr. Brantley had been a foreman with ITT Co. and retired after eighteen years of service. He also retired as a real estate Broker last year. Survivors include his wife, Madeleine Brantley; two daughters, Jennifer B. Motta of Roswell, and Pamela B. Miller of West Worwick, RI; three brothers, Valene Brantley of Monument, CO, Rev. Talmedge Brantley of Waterford, CA, and James (Buddy) Brantley of Dublin; and a sister, Frances Turner of Alma. Two grandchildren also survive. Funeral services were held at the Christ the King Church. Burial with military honors followed at the Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery.

Eula Mae Peacock Dixon
Mrs. Eula Mae Peacock Dixon, age 77, passed away early Monday morning, August 11, 2003 at Satilla Regional Medical Center following a brief illness. A native and lifelong resident of Pierce County, she was a devoted wife and a loving mother and grandmother. Mrs. Dixon was retired from Swain Manufacturing Co. in Waycross. She was a member of Beulah Baptist Church in Pierce County and had taught Sunday School there for a number of years. She was the daughter of the late James R. & Vicy James Peacock of Pierce County. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Oden Peacock, Omer Peacock and James Lester Peacock; a sister, Vicy Catherine Peacock and by a granddaughter, Charlye Dixon. Survives her husband of sixty years, Lewis Dixon of Pierce County; a daughter, Mrs. Geraldine Dixon Head and husband Eddie of Pierce County; a son, Eugene Gene Dixon and wife Joy of Waycross; a sister, Ruby Lee Peacock Wiggins of Waycross. Five grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and other relatives also survive. Funeral services were held Wednesday, August 13 at Beulah Baptist Church. Interment followed in the Beulah Cemetery. Mrs. Dixon s grandsons served as active pallbearers, which included Rick Head, Duane Head, Timmy Head, Stacy Taylor, Andy Head, E.J. Head and Robbie Hiers. Honorary pallbearers included Bryant Wiggins, John Carroll, members of the Adult Sunday School Class at Beulah Baptist Church and the Deacons of Beulah Baptist. Pearson-Treadwell Funeral Home was in charge.