Funeral Notices
Charges may apply. Please Email
dlord@upsonbeacon.com or call 706-646-2382
Deadline for submission:
Mondays at 10 a.m.
Charges may apply. Please Email
dlord@upsonbeacon.com or call 706-646-2382
Deadline for submission:
Mondays at 10 a.m.
Mr. Eddie Lee Alexander
Mr. Eddie Lee Alexander, age 67, of Culloden, passed away Thursday, May 21, 2020 at his residence. Graveside services were held Wednesday, May 27 at Salem Baptist Church Cemetery. Pastor Hope Smith officiated.
Mr. Alexander is survived by five children, Marice Riley of Atlanta; Elinite Alexander (Bettina), of Columbus; Alonzo Alexander and Andre Alexander, of Thomaston; Alex Alexander and Lateef Harris, of Salem Community; 12 grandchildren; a devoted friend, Darnell Daniely, of Lizella; five siblings, Alice Fowler, of Dallas; Clinton Alexander, Jr. (Faye), of Thomaston; Jeannette King, Addie Raines (Charles) and Annie Kendall (Gary), all of Salem Community; three aunts, Mrs. Lannie Smith and Mrs. Alfred Jordan, of Indianapolis, Ind. and Mrs. Ruby Jordan, of Salem Community; a host of other relatives and friends that will miss him dearly.
Bentley’s & Sons Funeral Home of Thomaston is in charge of all professional services.
Mrs. Donna Ann Baughcum
Mrs. Donna Ann Baughcum, age 56, of Thomaston, died Saturday, May 30, 2020 at Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center.
Mrs. Baughcum was born June 25, 1963 in Thomaston, to James Donald Williams and the late Mary Ann Smith Williams. She worked for United Bank in customer service for many years.
Survivors include her husband, Donald Craig Baughcum; father, James Donald Williams; brothers, Greg Williams, Brian Williams and Scott Williams; sisters, Erin Williams and Laura Zackery.
Graveside memorial services will be held Saturday June 6, at 2 p.m. in Southview Cemetery.
You may sign the online guest book and share your own special thoughts with Mrs. Baughcum’s family by visiting the Coggins Funeral Home website at cogginsfuneralhome.com.
Coggins Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Eddie Lee Alexander, age 67, of Culloden, passed away Thursday, May 21, 2020 at his residence. Graveside services were held Wednesday, May 27 at Salem Baptist Church Cemetery. Pastor Hope Smith officiated.
Mr. Alexander is survived by five children, Marice Riley of Atlanta; Elinite Alexander (Bettina), of Columbus; Alonzo Alexander and Andre Alexander, of Thomaston; Alex Alexander and Lateef Harris, of Salem Community; 12 grandchildren; a devoted friend, Darnell Daniely, of Lizella; five siblings, Alice Fowler, of Dallas; Clinton Alexander, Jr. (Faye), of Thomaston; Jeannette King, Addie Raines (Charles) and Annie Kendall (Gary), all of Salem Community; three aunts, Mrs. Lannie Smith and Mrs. Alfred Jordan, of Indianapolis, Ind. and Mrs. Ruby Jordan, of Salem Community; a host of other relatives and friends that will miss him dearly.
Bentley’s & Sons Funeral Home of Thomaston is in charge of all professional services.
Mrs. Donna Ann Baughcum
Mrs. Donna Ann Baughcum, age 56, of Thomaston, died Saturday, May 30, 2020 at Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center.
Mrs. Baughcum was born June 25, 1963 in Thomaston, to James Donald Williams and the late Mary Ann Smith Williams. She worked for United Bank in customer service for many years.
Survivors include her husband, Donald Craig Baughcum; father, James Donald Williams; brothers, Greg Williams, Brian Williams and Scott Williams; sisters, Erin Williams and Laura Zackery.
Graveside memorial services will be held Saturday June 6, at 2 p.m. in Southview Cemetery.
You may sign the online guest book and share your own special thoughts with Mrs. Baughcum’s family by visiting the Coggins Funeral Home website at cogginsfuneralhome.com.
Coggins Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Mrs. Yvonne Barron Brown
Mrs. Yvonne Barron Brown, age 84, of John B. Gordon Road, passed Monday, May 25, 2020, at her residence.
Memorial services were held Tuesday, June 2, in the George E. Trice, Jr. Memorial Chapel. Pastor Driver officiated, assisted by Evangelist Sandra T. Trice.
Mrs. Brown was educated in the Upson County school system and attended Drake High School. She joined Friendship Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Terrance Curtis. She later moved her membership to Flint River Baptist Church in Woodland, where she served on the Usher Board. She later moved to Atlanta and years later she returned home and was employed by Thomaston Mills until she retired in 1999.
She is survived by one son, Mr. Wallace Barron, of Thomaston; two sisters-in-law, Mrs. Ann Barron, of Atlanta, and Mrs. Glenda Searcy Barron, of Thomaston; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.
Trice Funeral Home was in charge of all professional services.
Mrs. Yvonne Barron Brown, age 84, of John B. Gordon Road, passed Monday, May 25, 2020, at her residence.
Memorial services were held Tuesday, June 2, in the George E. Trice, Jr. Memorial Chapel. Pastor Driver officiated, assisted by Evangelist Sandra T. Trice.
Mrs. Brown was educated in the Upson County school system and attended Drake High School. She joined Friendship Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Terrance Curtis. She later moved her membership to Flint River Baptist Church in Woodland, where she served on the Usher Board. She later moved to Atlanta and years later she returned home and was employed by Thomaston Mills until she retired in 1999.
She is survived by one son, Mr. Wallace Barron, of Thomaston; two sisters-in-law, Mrs. Ann Barron, of Atlanta, and Mrs. Glenda Searcy Barron, of Thomaston; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.
Trice Funeral Home was in charge of all professional services.
Mr. James Larry Chambers
Mr. James Larry Chambers, age 69, of Thomaston, died Wednesday, May 27, 2020, at Upson Regional Medical Center.
Mr. Chambers was born in Cartersville May 9, 1951, a son of the late Joseph Terry and Kathryn Hill Chambers. He was a 1970 graduate of Griffin High School, where he was an All-American running back for the Griffin Eagles. He received several offers of full scholarships from the University of Georgia, Clemson, Southern Cal and the University of Tennessee. He ultimately continued his football career at Jacksonville State University.
At the beginning of his junior year, Larry transferred to West Georgia College to be near the young lady who would become his wife, Angela Warren. They were married for 43 years.
Mr. Chambers was employed with Upson County Health Department and retired as Upson County's environmental specialist. He was a past board member of the Georgia Public Health Association.
Mr. Chambers passed on his love of sports, football in particular, to the youth of Upson County. He served as a coach and referee in the Upson County Recreation Department for many years. He also took on other coaching roles when asked by recreation department officials.
Mr. Chambers was a member of First United Methodist Church and served the church in almost all capacities. His most cherished role in the life of the church was that of youth volunteer.
Mr. Chambers was an avid golfer and a great cook. There are countless untold episodes of him providing for people in need.
His greatest role on earth was that of a loving husband, father and grandfather. Mr. Chambers is survived by his wife, Angela Warren Chambers; his children, Laurie (Stephen) Holmes, of Zebulon, Lindsey (Judson) Matthews, of Thomaston, Emily (Brandon) Nall Patch, of Rome, and Will (Ashley) Nall, of St. Petersburg, Fla.; his brother, Terry (Gina) Chambers, of Griffin; sister, Harolyn Castleberry, of Thomaston; and grandchildren Anna Grace Holmes, Warren Matthews and Jackson Matthews.
Memorial services for Mr. Chambers were held Friday, May 29, on the front lawn of First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Andy Cunningham and Rev. Charles Bennett officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 707, Thomaston, GA 30286.
Fletcher-Day Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at fletcherdayfuneralhome.com
Mr. James Larry Chambers, age 69, of Thomaston, died Wednesday, May 27, 2020, at Upson Regional Medical Center.
Mr. Chambers was born in Cartersville May 9, 1951, a son of the late Joseph Terry and Kathryn Hill Chambers. He was a 1970 graduate of Griffin High School, where he was an All-American running back for the Griffin Eagles. He received several offers of full scholarships from the University of Georgia, Clemson, Southern Cal and the University of Tennessee. He ultimately continued his football career at Jacksonville State University.
At the beginning of his junior year, Larry transferred to West Georgia College to be near the young lady who would become his wife, Angela Warren. They were married for 43 years.
Mr. Chambers was employed with Upson County Health Department and retired as Upson County's environmental specialist. He was a past board member of the Georgia Public Health Association.
Mr. Chambers passed on his love of sports, football in particular, to the youth of Upson County. He served as a coach and referee in the Upson County Recreation Department for many years. He also took on other coaching roles when asked by recreation department officials.
Mr. Chambers was a member of First United Methodist Church and served the church in almost all capacities. His most cherished role in the life of the church was that of youth volunteer.
Mr. Chambers was an avid golfer and a great cook. There are countless untold episodes of him providing for people in need.
His greatest role on earth was that of a loving husband, father and grandfather. Mr. Chambers is survived by his wife, Angela Warren Chambers; his children, Laurie (Stephen) Holmes, of Zebulon, Lindsey (Judson) Matthews, of Thomaston, Emily (Brandon) Nall Patch, of Rome, and Will (Ashley) Nall, of St. Petersburg, Fla.; his brother, Terry (Gina) Chambers, of Griffin; sister, Harolyn Castleberry, of Thomaston; and grandchildren Anna Grace Holmes, Warren Matthews and Jackson Matthews.
Memorial services for Mr. Chambers were held Friday, May 29, on the front lawn of First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Andy Cunningham and Rev. Charles Bennett officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 707, Thomaston, GA 30286.
Fletcher-Day Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at fletcherdayfuneralhome.com
Mr. James Steven "Bo" Collum, Jr.
Mr. James Steven "Bo" Collum, Jr., age 52, of Thomaston, passed away Wednesday, May 27, 2020 at Upson Regional Medical Center.
Mr. Collum was born April 21, 1968 in Thomaston, to Suzanne Clay Presley and the late James Steven "Peanut" Collum, Sr. He worked as a paramedic for Grady Health for many years and also worked as a registered nurse for Piedmont Newnan Hospital. Mr. Collum was currently studying for his BSN in nursing at Western Governors University. He was preceded in death by his father, James Steven "Peanut" Collum, Sr.; brother, Clay Collum; maternal grandparents, J.C. and Mary Jo Clay; paternal grandparents, Charlie and Mildred Collum.
Survivors include his mother, Susie Presley, of Thomaston; sister, Lisa Caraway, of Thomaston; nephew, Sammy Caraway, of Thomaston; niece, Erica Caraway, of Thomaston; many aunts and uncles also survive.
The family received friends at Coggins Funeral Home Saturday May 30.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to maintain social distancing, the visitation was held outside under the portico.
You may sign the online guest book and share your own special thoughts with Mr. Collums’s family by visiting the Coggins Funeral Home website at cogginsfuneralhome.com.
Coggins Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Randall Keith Colwell
Mr. Randall Keith Colwell, age 58, of Thomaston, died Saturday, May 30, 2020 at his residence.
Mr. Colwell was born Feb. 10, 1962 in Thomaston, to Jean Anderson Colwell and the late Charlie Colwell. He worked as a forklift driver for Norcom in Griffin for many years.
Survivors include his mother, Jean Colwell; daughter, Brandy Garcia; son, Dustin Colwell; sister Stacie (Terrell) McElhenney; three grandchildren.
It was Mr. Colwell's wishes to be cremated. The family will have a celebration of life service at a later date.
You may sign the online guest book and share your own special thoughts with Mr. Colwell’s family by visiting the Coggins Funeral Home website at cogginsfuneralhome.com.
Coggins Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Reginald Cuthbert Fortner, Jr.
Mr. Reginald Cuthbert Fortner, Jr., died Sunday, May 24, 2020.
Funeral Services were held Monday, June 1, with viewing and visitation and a memorial service followed at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Snellville, with Reverends Fred Lodge and Scott Crow officiating.
Mr. Fortner, age 70, known by most as Reggie or RC, was a native of Thomaston, where he discovered his vocal gift and love of music - performing with the choirs at First Baptist Church and Lee High Singers at R. E. Lee Institute. He received a choir scholarship to Berry College and performed with the Berry Singers and theater. While at Berry, he obtained a degree in religion and philosophy with a minor in chemistry. After graduation, RC remained in Rome, and taught chemistry at Berry Academy.
RC moved to Atlanta, and went on to utilize his love of chemistry to help establish PPM, Inc, which was respectfully recognized as a leader in the management of chemical waste and set standards for safety in the industry. He later worked as a self-employed expert consultant, providing safety, hazmat, and OSHA training to local and national companies.
For the past 30 years, RC lived in Snellville. He was a strong and faithful Christian and an active member of Mount Zion Baptist Church. He was a talented and valued choir member, and gave freely of his time and energy to serve on multiple committees. RC had a servant's heart and acted out the Great Commission by participating in multiple mission trips, including to Ukraine and Indonesia.
RC was able to combine his love of travel with his lifelong love of music and missions when he joined The Sons of Jubal. These talented friends, trips and performances were some of the highlights in recent years. RC cherished his family and life-long friends, and was an individual that made the extra special effort to keep in touch and support those relationships. An avid reader with a thirst for knowledge, he could discuss most any topic with intelligence and authority. His quick wit, compassion, and dynamic personality always made for lively discussions.
RC valued his son, Trey, more than anything else. His love, joy, and pride for his son was immeasurable, and they enjoyed many days boating on the lake/ocean, fishing, camping and family events together. RC shared his love of travel with Trey.
Born Nov. 27, 1949, RC was the son of the late Edith Barron Fortner and Reginald Cuthbert Fortner, Sr. of Thomaston. He is survived by his son, Reginald Cuthbert Fortner, III (Trey and wife, Kelsey); five siblings, Regina Butts, of Ellenwood; Deborah Thames (Brian), of Elberton; Thomas Fortner, of Fayetteville; Brenda Harp (Barney), of Meansville and Linda Beeghley (Paul), of Griffin; one Aunt, Rose Barron Wilson, of Raymond, Miss.; multiple nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The family will have a graveside memorial service Saturday, June 6, 2020 at 11 a.m. in Glenwood Cemetery.
Tom Wages Funeral Services is in charge of arrangements. Interment will be in Glenwood Cemetery, Thomaston, with Coggins Funeral Home in charge of local arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Mt. Zion Baptist Church, https://mountzionsnellville.com/ or First Baptist Church of Thomaston, GA https://www.fbcthomaston.org, or Samaritan’s Purse https://www.samaritanspurse.org/.
Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.wagesfuneralhome.com. Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, LLC, A Family Company, 3705 Highway 78 West, Snellville, GA 30039 (770-979-3200) has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Coggins Funeral Home was in charge of local arrangements.
Donna Faye McEacheron Gallinger
Donna Faye McEacheron Gallinger, age 61, residing in Thomaston, died Wednesday May 27, 2020, at home following a lengthy struggle with cancer.
Donna was born in Jacksonville, Fla. Jan. 24, 1959, the third child of Aubrey B and Esther Fay Huffman McEachern.
Donna graduated from Terry Parker High School in 1977.
Donna was employed for several years by Johnson & Johnson Vision in Jacksonville, making and inspecting contact lenses. Donna married Robert Gallinger in 1982.
After her marriage, Donna for many years operated a day care business from her home, during which time she established and maintained lifelong, loving relationships with many of "her" children and their parents.
Donna is survived by her father, Aubrey B. McEachern, of Thomaston; husband, Robert Gallinger, of Jacksonville, Fla.; three children, Rachel Gallinger Thompson (Lonnie), Sarah Gallinger, and Matthew Gallinger, all of Jacksonville, Fla.; brother, Aubrey B. McEachern III (Kimberly), of Melbourne, Fla.; sister, Mary Susan McEachern, of Thomaston; brother, Patrick F. McEachern (Debbie), of Dunnellon, Fla.; granddaughter, Avery and grandson, Caleb Thompson, of Jacksonville, Fla.; and numerous nephews, nieces, grand-nephews, and grand-nieces. Donna is also survived by her very special friend, William "Bill" Voss, of Thomaston.
Donna was preceded in death by her mother, Fay.
Donna had a great many furred and finned pets over the years, too numerous to list in their entirety. Donna would want us to especially remember her beloved Cole the Cat (who lived to the ripe old age of 22), and her surviving friends Griff Betta Fish, who calmed and soothed Donna with his stoic presence every day during her months of illness, the amazing 17-year-old, Gizmo Rabbit, and Matlida "Tilly" the Cat, faithful, loving companion at the time of her passing.
At Donna's request, her remains will be cremated and scattered in the Atlantic Ocean waters of her much-loved Jacksonville beaches, following a life celebration which will be announced for a later date due to the coronavirus pandemic.
In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested that memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society or www.cancer.org.
You may sign the online guest book and share your own special thoughts with Mrs. Gallinger’s family by visiting the Coggins Funeral Home website at cogginsfuneralhome.com.
Coggins Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Mr. James Steven "Bo" Collum, Jr., age 52, of Thomaston, passed away Wednesday, May 27, 2020 at Upson Regional Medical Center.
Mr. Collum was born April 21, 1968 in Thomaston, to Suzanne Clay Presley and the late James Steven "Peanut" Collum, Sr. He worked as a paramedic for Grady Health for many years and also worked as a registered nurse for Piedmont Newnan Hospital. Mr. Collum was currently studying for his BSN in nursing at Western Governors University. He was preceded in death by his father, James Steven "Peanut" Collum, Sr.; brother, Clay Collum; maternal grandparents, J.C. and Mary Jo Clay; paternal grandparents, Charlie and Mildred Collum.
Survivors include his mother, Susie Presley, of Thomaston; sister, Lisa Caraway, of Thomaston; nephew, Sammy Caraway, of Thomaston; niece, Erica Caraway, of Thomaston; many aunts and uncles also survive.
The family received friends at Coggins Funeral Home Saturday May 30.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to maintain social distancing, the visitation was held outside under the portico.
You may sign the online guest book and share your own special thoughts with Mr. Collums’s family by visiting the Coggins Funeral Home website at cogginsfuneralhome.com.
Coggins Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Randall Keith Colwell
Mr. Randall Keith Colwell, age 58, of Thomaston, died Saturday, May 30, 2020 at his residence.
Mr. Colwell was born Feb. 10, 1962 in Thomaston, to Jean Anderson Colwell and the late Charlie Colwell. He worked as a forklift driver for Norcom in Griffin for many years.
Survivors include his mother, Jean Colwell; daughter, Brandy Garcia; son, Dustin Colwell; sister Stacie (Terrell) McElhenney; three grandchildren.
It was Mr. Colwell's wishes to be cremated. The family will have a celebration of life service at a later date.
You may sign the online guest book and share your own special thoughts with Mr. Colwell’s family by visiting the Coggins Funeral Home website at cogginsfuneralhome.com.
Coggins Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Reginald Cuthbert Fortner, Jr.
Mr. Reginald Cuthbert Fortner, Jr., died Sunday, May 24, 2020.
Funeral Services were held Monday, June 1, with viewing and visitation and a memorial service followed at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Snellville, with Reverends Fred Lodge and Scott Crow officiating.
Mr. Fortner, age 70, known by most as Reggie or RC, was a native of Thomaston, where he discovered his vocal gift and love of music - performing with the choirs at First Baptist Church and Lee High Singers at R. E. Lee Institute. He received a choir scholarship to Berry College and performed with the Berry Singers and theater. While at Berry, he obtained a degree in religion and philosophy with a minor in chemistry. After graduation, RC remained in Rome, and taught chemistry at Berry Academy.
RC moved to Atlanta, and went on to utilize his love of chemistry to help establish PPM, Inc, which was respectfully recognized as a leader in the management of chemical waste and set standards for safety in the industry. He later worked as a self-employed expert consultant, providing safety, hazmat, and OSHA training to local and national companies.
For the past 30 years, RC lived in Snellville. He was a strong and faithful Christian and an active member of Mount Zion Baptist Church. He was a talented and valued choir member, and gave freely of his time and energy to serve on multiple committees. RC had a servant's heart and acted out the Great Commission by participating in multiple mission trips, including to Ukraine and Indonesia.
RC was able to combine his love of travel with his lifelong love of music and missions when he joined The Sons of Jubal. These talented friends, trips and performances were some of the highlights in recent years. RC cherished his family and life-long friends, and was an individual that made the extra special effort to keep in touch and support those relationships. An avid reader with a thirst for knowledge, he could discuss most any topic with intelligence and authority. His quick wit, compassion, and dynamic personality always made for lively discussions.
RC valued his son, Trey, more than anything else. His love, joy, and pride for his son was immeasurable, and they enjoyed many days boating on the lake/ocean, fishing, camping and family events together. RC shared his love of travel with Trey.
Born Nov. 27, 1949, RC was the son of the late Edith Barron Fortner and Reginald Cuthbert Fortner, Sr. of Thomaston. He is survived by his son, Reginald Cuthbert Fortner, III (Trey and wife, Kelsey); five siblings, Regina Butts, of Ellenwood; Deborah Thames (Brian), of Elberton; Thomas Fortner, of Fayetteville; Brenda Harp (Barney), of Meansville and Linda Beeghley (Paul), of Griffin; one Aunt, Rose Barron Wilson, of Raymond, Miss.; multiple nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The family will have a graveside memorial service Saturday, June 6, 2020 at 11 a.m. in Glenwood Cemetery.
Tom Wages Funeral Services is in charge of arrangements. Interment will be in Glenwood Cemetery, Thomaston, with Coggins Funeral Home in charge of local arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Mt. Zion Baptist Church, https://mountzionsnellville.com/ or First Baptist Church of Thomaston, GA https://www.fbcthomaston.org, or Samaritan’s Purse https://www.samaritanspurse.org/.
Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.wagesfuneralhome.com. Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, LLC, A Family Company, 3705 Highway 78 West, Snellville, GA 30039 (770-979-3200) has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Coggins Funeral Home was in charge of local arrangements.
Donna Faye McEacheron Gallinger
Donna Faye McEacheron Gallinger, age 61, residing in Thomaston, died Wednesday May 27, 2020, at home following a lengthy struggle with cancer.
Donna was born in Jacksonville, Fla. Jan. 24, 1959, the third child of Aubrey B and Esther Fay Huffman McEachern.
Donna graduated from Terry Parker High School in 1977.
Donna was employed for several years by Johnson & Johnson Vision in Jacksonville, making and inspecting contact lenses. Donna married Robert Gallinger in 1982.
After her marriage, Donna for many years operated a day care business from her home, during which time she established and maintained lifelong, loving relationships with many of "her" children and their parents.
Donna is survived by her father, Aubrey B. McEachern, of Thomaston; husband, Robert Gallinger, of Jacksonville, Fla.; three children, Rachel Gallinger Thompson (Lonnie), Sarah Gallinger, and Matthew Gallinger, all of Jacksonville, Fla.; brother, Aubrey B. McEachern III (Kimberly), of Melbourne, Fla.; sister, Mary Susan McEachern, of Thomaston; brother, Patrick F. McEachern (Debbie), of Dunnellon, Fla.; granddaughter, Avery and grandson, Caleb Thompson, of Jacksonville, Fla.; and numerous nephews, nieces, grand-nephews, and grand-nieces. Donna is also survived by her very special friend, William "Bill" Voss, of Thomaston.
Donna was preceded in death by her mother, Fay.
Donna had a great many furred and finned pets over the years, too numerous to list in their entirety. Donna would want us to especially remember her beloved Cole the Cat (who lived to the ripe old age of 22), and her surviving friends Griff Betta Fish, who calmed and soothed Donna with his stoic presence every day during her months of illness, the amazing 17-year-old, Gizmo Rabbit, and Matlida "Tilly" the Cat, faithful, loving companion at the time of her passing.
At Donna's request, her remains will be cremated and scattered in the Atlantic Ocean waters of her much-loved Jacksonville beaches, following a life celebration which will be announced for a later date due to the coronavirus pandemic.
In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested that memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society or www.cancer.org.
You may sign the online guest book and share your own special thoughts with Mrs. Gallinger’s family by visiting the Coggins Funeral Home website at cogginsfuneralhome.com.
Coggins Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Tony Wesley Teal
Mr. Tony Wesley Teal, age 30, formerly of Thomaston, died Sunday, May 24, 2020, in Jackson.
Mr. Teal was born July 14, 1989, in Upson County, to William Mark Teal and Lisa Ann Bass Teal. He was self-employed as a mechanic and was of the Baptist faith.
Survivors include his parents, William Mark Teal and Lisa Ann Bass Teal; brother, Mark Dwayne Teal (Brandy Raybon); nieces, Dallas Teal, LeeAnn Woolf; numerous aunts and uncles.
The family received friends Friday, May 29, at Coggins Funeral Home. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to maintain social distancing, the visitation was held outside under the portico.
You may sign the online guest book and share your own special thoughts with Mr. Teal’s family by visiting the Coggins Funeral Home website at cogginsfuneralhome.com.
Coggins Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Tony Wesley Teal, age 30, formerly of Thomaston, died Sunday, May 24, 2020, in Jackson.
Mr. Teal was born July 14, 1989, in Upson County, to William Mark Teal and Lisa Ann Bass Teal. He was self-employed as a mechanic and was of the Baptist faith.
Survivors include his parents, William Mark Teal and Lisa Ann Bass Teal; brother, Mark Dwayne Teal (Brandy Raybon); nieces, Dallas Teal, LeeAnn Woolf; numerous aunts and uncles.
The family received friends Friday, May 29, at Coggins Funeral Home. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to maintain social distancing, the visitation was held outside under the portico.
You may sign the online guest book and share your own special thoughts with Mr. Teal’s family by visiting the Coggins Funeral Home website at cogginsfuneralhome.com.
Coggins Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Aldene Walker
Mr. Aldene Walker, age 76, of Wiley Street, passed Saturday, May 23, 2020, at his residence.
Mr. Walker was a former member of Pine Chapel Baptist Church. He attended public schools in Upson County, graduated from Drake High School and was a graduate of Fort Valley State College. He retired from BPS Companies as a warehouse supervisor.
He is survived by five children, Gwendolyn Walker, of Buffalo, NY, Mrs. Cheryl Walker (Eric) Farmer, Ms. Marlene Walker, and Mr. Altavious Walker, all of Atlanta, and Mr. Marchello Walker, of Macon; 14 grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Marie Green, of Thomaston; one-half brother, Mr. Willie James Hicks, of Carrollton; two nieces, Ms. Charlotte Green and Ms. Pamela Green, both of Atlanta; a host of cousins and other relatives and friends.
Trice Funeral Home was in charge of all professional services.
Mr. Aldene Walker, age 76, of Wiley Street, passed Saturday, May 23, 2020, at his residence.
Mr. Walker was a former member of Pine Chapel Baptist Church. He attended public schools in Upson County, graduated from Drake High School and was a graduate of Fort Valley State College. He retired from BPS Companies as a warehouse supervisor.
He is survived by five children, Gwendolyn Walker, of Buffalo, NY, Mrs. Cheryl Walker (Eric) Farmer, Ms. Marlene Walker, and Mr. Altavious Walker, all of Atlanta, and Mr. Marchello Walker, of Macon; 14 grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Marie Green, of Thomaston; one-half brother, Mr. Willie James Hicks, of Carrollton; two nieces, Ms. Charlotte Green and Ms. Pamela Green, both of Atlanta; a host of cousins and other relatives and friends.
Trice Funeral Home was in charge of all professional services.
Mr. Will Jerome "Bruno" Williams
Mr. Will Jerome "Bruno" Williams, age 45, of Shannon Court, passed Sunday, May 17, 2020 at Wellstar Spalding Regional Hospital.
Graveside services were held Saturday, May 23, in Lincoln Memorial Cemetery. Evangelist Sandra T. Trice officiated.
Mr. Williams graduated from Upson Lee High School in 1994. He began working at Thomaston Mills. He attended school and earned his CDL license along with a degree in criminal justice at Southern Crescent Technical College. Because of his love for cars, he took another path and took a job at AutoZone. He was employed with Autozone for nine years where he held the title of store manager and commercial manager.
He was survived by his wife, Mrs. Latonya Williams, of Thomaston; one daughter, Ms. Aneesa Johnson, of Thomaston; one sister, Ms. Carissy Williams, of Griffin; father and mother-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. George (Barbara) Johnson, of Forsyth; brother-in-law, Mr. "Randy (Katrina) Johnson, of Warner Robins; a host of cousins and other relatives and friends.
Trice Funeral Home was in charge of all professional services.
Mr. Will Jerome "Bruno" Williams, age 45, of Shannon Court, passed Sunday, May 17, 2020 at Wellstar Spalding Regional Hospital.
Graveside services were held Saturday, May 23, in Lincoln Memorial Cemetery. Evangelist Sandra T. Trice officiated.
Mr. Williams graduated from Upson Lee High School in 1994. He began working at Thomaston Mills. He attended school and earned his CDL license along with a degree in criminal justice at Southern Crescent Technical College. Because of his love for cars, he took another path and took a job at AutoZone. He was employed with Autozone for nine years where he held the title of store manager and commercial manager.
He was survived by his wife, Mrs. Latonya Williams, of Thomaston; one daughter, Ms. Aneesa Johnson, of Thomaston; one sister, Ms. Carissy Williams, of Griffin; father and mother-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. George (Barbara) Johnson, of Forsyth; brother-in-law, Mr. "Randy (Katrina) Johnson, of Warner Robins; a host of cousins and other relatives and friends.
Trice Funeral Home was in charge of all professional services.
Mr. Wilbert Yates, Sr.
Mr. Wilbert Yates, Sr., age 77, of Prichard, Ala. passed Friday, May 15, 2020 at Wellstar Spalding Regional Hospital.
Funeral services were held Saturday, May 23 at Holmes Street Missionary Baptist Church. Pastor Keithraum Leatherwood officiated, assisted by Pastor Patricia Yates. Interment was at Gethsemane North Cemetery.
Mr. Yates attended Oak Grove Elementary School. He was a member of Holmes Street Missionary Baptist Church. He was employed for more than 30 years with Alabama Gas Company.
He was survived by his wife, Mrs. Katherine Jones Yates, of Thomaston; five sons, Frank (Patricia) Yates, Charles (Mary) Yates, L. Wilbert (Debra) Yates, Donald (Debra) Yates and Elmore Yates; one daughter, Loretta Hines; step-daughters, Linda Williams, of Mobile, Ala., Jeanette Martin, of California and Reanette Jones of Washington, DC; step-son, Rafford Williams; a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; five brothers, Robert (Catrena) Yates, Roger (Bettie) Yates, Leroy (Shelia) Yates, Wayne Yates and Kenneth Yates; three sisters, Pinese Yates, Belinda Perkins, Patricia Yates, all of Mobile, AL; sisters and brothers-in-law include Glinton Brazil, of Atlanta, Josephine (Don) Henderson, Charlie (Rachael) Brazil, Emory Brazil, Ervin (Vivian) Brazil all, of Thomaston, Annie (Melvin) Blasingme of Roberta; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and friends.
Trice Funeral Home of Thomaston and Reese Funeral Home of Prichard, Ala. is in charge of all arrangements.
Mr. Wilbert Yates, Sr., age 77, of Prichard, Ala. passed Friday, May 15, 2020 at Wellstar Spalding Regional Hospital.
Funeral services were held Saturday, May 23 at Holmes Street Missionary Baptist Church. Pastor Keithraum Leatherwood officiated, assisted by Pastor Patricia Yates. Interment was at Gethsemane North Cemetery.
Mr. Yates attended Oak Grove Elementary School. He was a member of Holmes Street Missionary Baptist Church. He was employed for more than 30 years with Alabama Gas Company.
He was survived by his wife, Mrs. Katherine Jones Yates, of Thomaston; five sons, Frank (Patricia) Yates, Charles (Mary) Yates, L. Wilbert (Debra) Yates, Donald (Debra) Yates and Elmore Yates; one daughter, Loretta Hines; step-daughters, Linda Williams, of Mobile, Ala., Jeanette Martin, of California and Reanette Jones of Washington, DC; step-son, Rafford Williams; a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; five brothers, Robert (Catrena) Yates, Roger (Bettie) Yates, Leroy (Shelia) Yates, Wayne Yates and Kenneth Yates; three sisters, Pinese Yates, Belinda Perkins, Patricia Yates, all of Mobile, AL; sisters and brothers-in-law include Glinton Brazil, of Atlanta, Josephine (Don) Henderson, Charlie (Rachael) Brazil, Emory Brazil, Ervin (Vivian) Brazil all, of Thomaston, Annie (Melvin) Blasingme of Roberta; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and friends.
Trice Funeral Home of Thomaston and Reese Funeral Home of Prichard, Ala. is in charge of all arrangements.