FUNERAL DIRECTORS SINCE 1941

 Colquitt Funeral Home was established in 1941 by H. Roy and Lucille McKinstry, Sr.  They operated the funeral home and ambulance service for Colquitt and Miller County until 1949  when their son, H. Roy McKinstry, Jr. returned from the Navy to help run the family business. Roy (Porky) McKinstry, Jr.  married Dorothy Oldham in 1949.  Roy McKinstry, Sr., Lucille McKinstry, Roy McKinstry, Jr. and Dorothy McKinstry were all licensed funeral directors and operated the funeral home together for nearly 50 years. 

Danny Sheffield, licensed funeral director and embalmer, began working at Colquitt Funeral Home in 1983 later purchasing the funeral home business from the McKinstry family in 1990. In1991, he built a new funeral home and chapel at 108 Grow Street and continues to operate as a family owned business today. The owner and staff of Colquitt Funeral Home will always cherish the memory of the lives of  H. R. (Mack) McKinstry, Sr., Lucille McKinstry, H. R. (Porky) McKinstry, Jr.,  and Dorothy McKinstry.

Payment Policy Effective January 1, 2018

     Colquitt Funeral Home will be implementing a new payment policy.  Effective January 1, 2018, we will not make any final funeral arrangements until a method of payment has been confirmed.

     When the family comes in to make funeral plans, they will need to bring their insurance policies with them. The policy will have to be verified BEFORE funeral dates and times will be decided.  This means if there is a death on a holiday or weekend or any other time that the insurance company is closed, arrangements will not be set until that policy can be verified.  If your loved one has an insurance policy that can not be filed by the funeral home, you will be responsible for paying before arrangements will be finalized. Payment must be received before the funeral service is held. 

We will no longer wait for estates to be settled.

No exceptions.

     Payment accepted in the form of verified insurance assignment, check, cash, or credit card.

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Obits

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Clara Jean Deaton     83

     Mrs. Clara Jean Deaton of Colquitt died Thursday, July 29, 2021, at Nolan Health. A private memorial service will be held later.

     Mrs. Deaton was a retired nurse.

     She is survived by one son, Mike (Teresa) Jackson of Colquitt, GA; one granddaughter, Amanda Jackson of Bainbridge, GA; one granddaughter-in-law, Brandi Jackson of Climax, GA; four great grandchildren, Alex Jackson, Alana Jackson, Kaylee Corriveau, and Makenzie Corriveau; and one brother, J. W. Phillips of MI. Mrs. Deaton was preceded in death by one grandson, Keith Jackson; and her parents, Leon W. and Ollie Gordon Phillips.

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James Robert Matkin, Sr.     66

     Mr. James Robert Matkin, Sr. of Colquitt died Wednesday, July 28, 2021, at his residence. Memorial services will be held Saturday, July 31, 2021, at 11:00 AM at Sheffield Funeral Chapel with military honors. Rev. Andy Glover will be officiating.

     Mr. Matkin retired from civil service.

     He is survived by two sons, James "Jimmy" (Sybrina) Matkin, Jr. of Albany, GA, and Kristopher (Summer) Matkin of Milton, FL; one daughter, Amanda (Keith) Frane of Opelika, AL; fur baby, Gracie; eight grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; two sisters, Mitzi (Gene) Rowland of Troy, AL, and Anna (Bill) Smith of Auburn, AL.  Mr. Matkin was preceded in death by his wife, Cathy Meredith Matkin; his parents, Clyde and Nora Cannon Matkin; one brother, Andy Matkin; and one sister, Martha Meredith.

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Jeanne Williams Lofton     87

     Mrs. Jeanne Lofton of Ormond Beach, FL died Thursday, July 22, 2021 at Halifax Health Hospice in Edgewater, FL. Graveside services will be Sunday, July 25, 2021, at 2:00 PM at the Colquitt City Cemetery with Rev. Chad Cooper officiating.

     Mrs. Lofton was born in 1934 to J.D. and Arlie Hornsby Williams in Fort Myers, FL. She grew up in Colquitt, GA. She married W. Glen Lofton on December 18, 1955 and taught school in both Dougherty and Decatur Counties.

     She is survived by her three children, Michael Glen Lofton of Pheonix, AZ, Bryan Kent (Beth) Lofton, South Daytona, FL, and Leah Lofton (Chris) Mathis of Leesburg, GA; five granddaughters; one grandson; two great grandsons; and one great granddaughter.  Mrs. Lofton was preceded in death by her husband, W. Glen Lofton; her parents, J.D. and Arlie Hornsby Williams; and one brother, Richard Williams.

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James Laray Musgrove     60

     Mr. James Laray Musgrove of Colquitt died Thursday, July 22, 2021, at Memorial Hospital in Bainbridge. Graveside funeral services will be Tuesday, July 27, 2021, at 11:00 AM at Notchaway Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Kent Barwick officiating.

     Mr. Musgrove retired from the U.S. Navy as an aviation electrician.

     He is survived by one son, Jake (Jennifer) Musgrove of Arizona; one daughter, Jessica Tara Musgove of California; two grandchildren, Cecil Musgrove and Locke Musgrove; mother, Pearl Dyke Douglas of Colquitt, GA; and two sisters, Barbara (John) Fisher of Bainbridge, GA, and Tonia Nolan of Albany, GA.  Mr. Musgrove was preceded in death by his father, James Samuel Musgrove.

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JoAnn Calhoun     83

     JoAnn Lewallen Calhoun passed away peacefully at the home of her daughter and son-in-law in Cairo, Georgia on Wednesday, July 14th, 2021. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, and devoted First Baptist Colquitt church member. She was diagnosed with Metastatic Breast Cancer 22 days earlier on June 22, 2021.

     JoAnn Lewallen Calhoun, born June 30, 1938, grew up in Toccoa, Georgia. Always a North Georgia girl at heart, she traded mountains for cotton fields and moved to rural South Georgia in adulthood. While she savored annual trips to admire the Fall foliage in the region she grew up in, she dearly loved Colquitt and its people. She often mentioned how blessed she felt to live in her home on the banks of Spring Creek.

     From early in her life, education was always JoAnn’s passion. She was proud to be a teacher and a media specialist in several school districts across the state following her husband, Larry, as he served the students in Georgia. She enjoyed her Miller County Library Book Club, the local Garden Club, her Sunday School Class, and the Miller County Senior Center. JoAnn sought to instill in her family and friends a zest for life, the power of a positive attitude, and the joy of a good book.

     JoAnn Calhoun is survived by her 3 children, daughter, Kelly Calhoun Young (Ken) of Cairo, and two sons, Cole Calhoun (Meg) of Kennesaw and Chris Calhoun (Dana) of Douglas.

     She is “Grandmother” to Jeb Tabb (Carla), Cody Tabb (Lauren), Troupe Tabb (Macy), Jordan Calhoun Lord (Austin), Jackson Calhoun, Laura Calhoun, Whitney Calhoun, Chelsey Kinard (Madison), Ashley Young (Ashley Dodd) and Blake Young. She bears the same title for 8 great grandchildren, Avery and Bristol Tabb, Lola Linnenkohl, Rowan Tabb, Finley Kinard, Amelia, Jasper and Gaynes Dodd. Her friend and caregiver is Mary Murray of Cairo.

     Mrs. Calhoun was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Thomas Larry Calhoun.

     In addition to the multiple family members, beloved friends, and dozen porch cats that love her dearly, JoAnn leaves behind an unrivaled legacy of love, kindness, and fun. She served as the Master of Ceremonies for the Calhoun & Co. Family talent show for over 20 years and taught her family that just about anything can be made better by time at the beach. Her servant’s heart and worshipful spirit yielded a family tree that’s rooted in the Word of God, and for that, we celebrate her homecoming.

     The funeral service will be held in the Colquitt First Baptist Church Chapel on July 16. 2021 at 11:00 AM and the interment will be in the Rawls Cemetery immediately following. Visitation will begin at at 10:00 AM prior to the service.

     Grandsons will be serving as pallbearers: Jeb Tabb, Cody Tabb, Troupe Tabb, Jackson Calhoun, Madison Kinard, Blake Young and Austin Lord.

     Should friends desire, memorial donations can be made to Colquitt First Baptist Church, 351 E. Pine Street, Colquitt, GA 39837, or Kindred Hospice, 432 E. Shotwell Street, Bainbridge, GA 39817.



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Melanie Marguerite Smith     62

     Mrs. Melanie Smith of Colquitt passed away on Sunday, July 11, 2021, at South East Health Medical Center. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, July 13, 2021, at 11:00 AM at Colquitt Free Will Baptist Church with Rev. Kent Barwick officiating. Interment will follow at Primitive Union Cemetery with Jeremy Smith, Stacy Sheffield, Stevens Culverson, Lance Tabb, Will Heard and Kevin Heard serving as active pallbearers. Visitation will be Tuesday, July 13, 2021, at Colquitt Free Will Baptist Church from 10:00-11:00 AM.

     Mrs. Smith was an office assistant at Colquitt Complete Care and member of Colquitt Freewill Baptist Church.

     She is survived by her husband, Tommy Smith of Colquitt; one son, Brandon Smith of Bainbridge; one daughter, Ansley (Clay) Poague of Donalsonville; her mother, Patricia Newberry Heard of Colquitt; five grandchildren, Greyson Smith, Trinity Poague, Bowen Smith, Adleigh Smith, and Lexie Delbrey; two brothers, Lance (Lisa) Heard, and Dane (Laural) Heard, both of Adel; and one sister, Marcia (Alan) Lee of Leary.

     She was preceded in death by her father, Frank Heard Jr.; and maternal grandparents, Henry and Marguerite Newberry.

     Flowers will be accepted, or donations may be made to the Colquitt Free Will Baptist Church building fund.

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Horace Earl Brown  74

   Mr. Horace Earl Brown of Colquitt died Thursday, July 1, 2021 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center.  Funeral services will be Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at 3:00 PM in Sheffield Funeral Chapel with Rev. Ritchie Vaughn and Rev. Tony Mock officiating. Interment will follow in the Bellview Cemetery with Rex Cook, Lyn Smith, Bobby Smith, Mitchel Sheffield, Rodney Brown, and Michael Bailey serving as active pallbearers.  Honorary pallbearers will be Ted Murkerson and Jack Murrah.  Visitation will  be Tuesday, July 6, 2021 from 2:00-3:00 at Colquitt Funeral Home.

  Mr. Brown was a farmer and a member of Colquitt Assemby of God.

  He is survived by one son, Kenneth (Macey) Brown of Colquitt and one sister, Patsy Smith of Donalsonville.

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Bobbie Chambless  90

     Mrs Bobbie Chambless of Colquitt died Wednesday, June 30, 2021 at her residence. Funeral services will be Saturday, July 3, 2021 at 10:00 AM at Eldorendo Baptist Church with Rev. Bobby Smith and Rev. Mitch Royals officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery with Brandon Chambless, Bryan Chambless, Frankie Chambless, Keith Cloud, Tyler Chambless, Rodney Brown,  Chris Miller and Bubba Chambless serving as active pallbearers.  Visitation will be Friday, July 2, 2021 from 6 to 8 PM at Colquitt Funeral Home.

     Mrs Chambless was a homemaker and a member of Colquitt Assembly of God Church. . Earl was the best father and a friend to all.  He loved his dogs and playing the piano which he did for many years as Colquitt Assembly of Gods pianist.  He loved riding through the crops and checking on the cows.

     She is survived by one son, Henry (Sherry) Chambless of Donalsonville, one daughter, Melba (Melvin) Cloud of Bainbridge. Six grandchildren, April (Dean) Ryals, Keith (Tina) Cloud, Frankie Chambless, Brian (Lindsey) Chambless, Brandon (Patti) Chambless, Thomas "Bubba" Chambless,  15 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren.

     She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry Jackson and Ivey Rawls Hatcher, her husband, Thomas Whitman Chambless, one son, Thomas Wayne "Bisquit" Chambless Sr., one grandson, Bradley Chambless, one sister Lillian Hatcher and one brother Rufus Hatcher.

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Jennifer Mock  63

     Mrs. Jennifer Mock of Colquitt died Monday, June 28, 2021, at Miller County Emergency Room. She will be cremated. 

     Mrs. Mock was a mother and homemaker.

     She is survived by her husband, W.L. "Bud" Mock of Colquitt; one son, Christopher Mock of Colquitt; one daughter, Jessica Hilton of Colquitt; four granchildren, Dustin Baker, Kaitlyn Gaskins, Taylor Gaskins, and Kelsie Hilton; one brother, Donnie (Chas) Draper of Colquitt; and one sister, Rita (James) Hendrix of Cairo. She was preceded in death by her parents, Willie and Jessie Mae Draper; and one sister, Wanda Jean Whitaker.

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Nancy Rocker McLendon     79

     Nancy Rocker McLendon, widow of Eugene Talmadge McLendon, died June 25, 2021, at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital.

     Nancy was born July 7, 1941, in Savannah, Georgia. Her parents were Edward Lamar Rocker and Margaret Snipes Rocker. The family moved to Macon, Georgia in 1952, when her father became manager of the newly opened Macon branch office of Clement and Company Insurance Adjusters. Nancy was a 1959 graduate at Miller Senior High School for Girls. After earning a secretarial degree from Georgia- Alabama Business College, she worked at the Macon YMCA. Then after relocating to Albany, Georgia, she worked in an optician's office. She married Eugene Talmadge McLendon on October 3, 1969, in Albany. Due to his job as a meat inspector for the Georgia Department of Agriculture, Nancy lived in Fitzgerald, Griffin, Americus, and Albany before settling in Colquitt, then Donalsonville.

     Nancy was a member of Union Missionary Baptist Church where she sang in the church choir and led a card ministry, being a friend to everybody.

     Nancy is survived by her brothers, Willard Rocker and Edward (LouAnn) Rocker of Macon, GA; her nephew Brian Rocker of Macon, GA; her nephew Chris (Grace) Rocker of Lexington, SC; and great nephew Luke Rocker of Lexington, SC.

     The funeral will be held at Union Missionary Baptist Church on Wednesday, June 30, 2021, at 11:00 AM with Rev. Calvin Arnold officiating. Visitation will be immediatly after the service at Union Missionary Baptist Church. Burial will be at Primitive Union Cemetery, but there will be no graveside service.

     The family expresses its deepest appreciation to the O'Brian family (Scott, Regina, Hunter, Carson) for everything they did to help Nancy and Gene over the years. Thanks also go to Rob and Teresa McMillan for being such dear friends to Nancy and Gene.

     In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity.

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Frazier Warren 74

     Mr. Frazier Warren of Colquitt died Saturday, June 19, 2021, at his residence. Funeral services will be Monday, June 21, 2021, at 4:00 PM at Flat Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Gerald Horne, Rev. David Houston, and Rev. Cory Thomas officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery with, Ty Stovall, Sawyer Stovall, Ben Cunningham, Cody Houston, Marc Tabb, Austin Lockart, Dillon Font, and Tyler Holt serving as active pallbearers.  Visitation will be from 3:00-4:00 PM Monday, June 21, 2021, at Flat Creek Baptist Church.

     Mr. Warren was retired from Georgia Tubing and was a member of Flat Creek Baptist Church.

     He is survived by his wife Linda Warren of Colquitt, GA; two daughters, Sherry (Guy) Stovall and Pebbles Warren both of Colquitt, GA; two step daughters, Dolly (Kerry) Lockart of Malone, FL, and Terri Holt of Colquitt, GA; one step son, Larry Font of Colquitt, GA; eight grandchildren, Jessica (Cody) Houston, Sky (Ben) Cunningham, Ty (Kelly) Stovall, Sawyer Stovall, Tyler (Danielle) Holt, Marc Tabb, Austin (Tatum) Lockart, and Dillon (Summer) Grigsby; six great grandchildren, Elliot Smith, Ashlynn Houston, Ava Claire Holt, Rosie Holt, Mac Holt, and Jaxson Grigsby; three brothers, Charles (Louise) Warren of Orlando, FL, Jerry (Marcia) Warren of Macon, GA; and Tony (Stacy) Warren of Bainbridge, GA; and one sister, Peggy (Gerald) Horne of Cairo, GA.

     He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Elaine Mock Warren; four brothers, Louie Warren, Carlton Warren, Joe Wayne Warren, and Lamar Warren;  and two sisters, Dorothy Warren and Margaret Warren.

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Debbie Stanton Attaberry     67

     Ms. Debbie Stanton Attaberry of Colquitt died Monday, June 14, 2021, at Miller Nursing Home. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, June 19, 2021 at 11:00 AM at Sheffield Funeral Chapel with Rev. Jeremy Horne officiating. Visitation will be Saturday, June 19, 2021 from 10:00-11:00 AM at Colquitt Funeral Home.

     Ms. Attaberry was a loving mother and homemaker, and a member of Colquitt Assembly of God.

     She is survived by three daughters, Denise Howard of Colquitt, GA, Sherrie (Jeremy) Thurman of Atlanta, GA, and Beth (Mark) Clinton of Donalsonville, GA; eight grandchildren, Matthew Robinson, Hayden Haire, Joshua Haire, Caleb Howard, Ty Musgrove, Mason Musgrove, Sylas Thurman, and Jubal Thurman; four great grand children; and one sister, Sheila Harrison of Blakely, GA. She was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Trudie Gibson Stanton; and two brothers, Kenneth Harrison and Donald Burkhalter.

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Irma Inez Barnard  94

     Mrs. Inez Barnard of Colquitt died Tuesday, June 8, 2021, at her residence. Funeral services will be Friday, June 11, 2021, at 2:00 PM at Sheffield Funeral Chapel with Rev. Harold Burrell officiating. Interment will follow in the Colquitt City Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, June 11, 2021, from 1:00-2:00 PM at Colquitt Funeral Home.

     Mrs. Barnard was former owner of Barnards Convenience Store in Colquitt and a member of Colquitt First Baptist Church.

     She is survived by two sons, Richard J. Redd and girl friend Sue McDowell of Colquitt, GA and Johnny Linton of Port St Joe, FL; one daughter, Robin Griffin of Colquitt, GA; grandchildren, Amanda Griffin and Michael Griffin both of Colquitt, GA; great granddaughter, Maddie Griffin; and numerous other grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Andrew Jackson Barnard; one daughter, Linda Kite; one son, Sankie Linton; one son-in-law, Buren Griffin; and her parents, Benjamin Franklin and Linnie Mae Flowers Harrison.

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Linda Ellen LaLone     72

     Mrs. Linda Ellen LaLone of Colquitt died Monday, June 7, 2021, at her residence. Visitation will be Sunday, June 13, 2021, from 2:00-3:00 PM at Colquitt Funeral Home. Graveside funeral services will be immediately following at Primitive Union Cemetery with Rev. David Mason and Rev. Larry Powell officiating. Active pall bearers will be Chris Gomez, Gary McLendon, Nathan LaLone, Lynnie Hasty, Oliver "Trep" Trepanier, and Brandon Simpson.

     Mrs. LaLone was an artist and a member of Seventh-day Adventist in Elkins, WV. Linda Ellen LaLone was born on January 19, 1949, to Dale and Waneita Stump in Parkersburg, WV. The younger of two children by 10 years, she remembered being cared for by her sister Carol as one might care for a cherished baby doll. She attended Parkersburg Junior Academy, Shenandoah Valley Academy, and Takoma Academy on her way to college at Takoma Park, MD. After only one year of college she left academia to work for The Review and Herald Publishing Association. In 1977, while living in Lisbon, Ohio, she met and married Bern LaLone from the Chattanooga, TN area, via Adventist Contact, acquiring a ready-made family of two girls, Michelle and Wendy, ages 4 and 2 years respectively, and added a third girl, Jennifer, in 1980. While raising her little family, she worked at her hobby of leather artistry, turning out a 6^th-place entry in an international competition sponsored by Tandy Leather Corporation. In 2001 she moved from Tennessee to Martinsburg, West Virginia, to care for her aging mother until her mother’s passing in 2013, at age 98. She and Bern then relocated to the Elkins, West Virginia, area, where they lived off-grid for 8 years. They left West Virginia for South Georgia in 2021, where she fought the last month of her two-year battle with cancer. She went quietly to rest on June 7, at 9:02 pm, just one month before their 45^th anniversary. She is survived by her husband, their 3 daughters, a grandson, Nathan LaLone of Chattanooga, TN, and her sister, Carol Zarska, of Martinsburg, WV. 

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Ruth L. Donley     84

     Mrs. Ruth Donley of Colquitt passed away on May 13, 2021, at Flowers Hospital in Dothan, AL. Funeral services will be held Sunday, May 16, 2021, at 3:00 PM at Kimbrel Chapel Church of God with Rev. Bobby Smith officiating. Visitation will be from 2:00-3:00 PM at Kimbrel Chapel. Interment will follow at Donley Cemetery with Brian Donley, Chris Donley, Craig Donley, Chance Cook, Ray Dean Heard, and Luke Cook serving as pall bearers. Timmy Donley will be an honorary pall bearer.

     Mrs. Donley was a home maker and member of Kimbrel Chapel Church of God. She loved the Lord and wrote numerous worship songs, many of which she performed at church when her health permitted. She was a creative writer and completed a book she dreamed of publishing. Her hard-working hands fed many throughout the years and everyone who ever sat at her table left satisfied, with a new "favorite" to request. Her unfailing sense of humor brightened the lives of all who knew her and continued to her last conscious thought. All who know her will continue to celebrate her life with the same joy and grace she taught us and still embraces.

     She is survived by one son, James Hoyt (Cheryl) Donley of Climax, GA; two daughters, Cathy (Sammy) Gardner and Lucy (James) Doan, both of Colquitt, GA; six grandchildren, Shannon (Jeremy) Carter, Brian (Wendy) Donley, Ashley (Thad Flowers) Donley, Benjamin (Jara) Miller, Jeremy (Elaine) Miller, and Angela Griffith; fifteen great grandchildren; one sister, Shirley (Ralph) Fenton of Ellenton, FL; and one brother, Wayne (Claudia) Lewis of Summerville, SC.  Mrs. Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Louie Mark Donley; parents, Roy Washington and Cullie Esther Kelley Lewis; one grandson, Ronald "Lil Ronnie" Eugene Jones, Jr.; and one brother and sister-in-law, Douglas Marvin (Gladys) Lewis.

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Ruby L Rathel      90

     Mrs. Ruby Lee Hutto Rathel, born July 14, 1930, went to be with her Lord on Friday, May 7, 2021 at Flowers Hospital in Dothan, AL following a brief illness. Visitation will be Sunday, May 9, 2021 at 2:00 PM, and funeral services at 3:00 PM at Colquitt Funeral Home with Rev. Chandler Holland and Rev. Josh Rathel officiating. Internment will follow at New Salem Freewill Baptist Church. Active pallbearers are Benji Addison, Jeremy Rathel, Dave Gowan, Luke Addison, Scil Rathel and Frank Covington.

     Mrs. Rathel (lovingly known as Memaw) lived her life serving others, being a homemaker, a loving Mother of six children and a pastor’s wife with the love of her life, the late Rev. James Rathel. They were the founding pastors of New Hope Worship Assembly in Donalsonville, GA.

     She attended Faith Christian Church in Bainbridge, GA. She said she had her heart’s desire was to have as a legacy that “She fought a good fight; she kept the faith, and many were added to the Lord.” That desire was fulfilled many times over. Memaw met no strangers, loved everyone and all who knew and met her said, “to know her is to love her.” She was known to be a chef extraordinaire, never using a recipe but always preparing a feast from memory and from scratch, and people would come from far and near to get one of Memaw’s famous biscuits.

     Mrs. Rathel is survived by one son, Gene (Debbie) Rathel of Colquitt, five daughters, Chris (Chandler) Holland of McDonough, GA; Ann (Toby) Addison and Elaine (Steve) Gowan of Colquitt; Judy Rathel of Mentoine, AL; and Jane (Jackie) McGuire of Columbus, GA; ten grandchildren, Sherri (Iain) Struan; Benji (Jill) Addison; Drs. Lori (Timothy) Grant; Dave (Heather) Gowan, Karen (Brian) Gowan; Jeremy Rathel, Josh (Erika) Rathel; Jennifer (Daniel) Smith; Chris Haywood; Chad Haywood; 20 great-grandchildren and numerous nephews and nieces.

     She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Rev. James Rathel; her parents, Ollie and Adelia Hutto, her stepmother, Mary Hutto; all 13 siblings and one infant death sibling and numerous nephews and nieces.

     Flowers will be accepted, as well as donations to Faith Christian Church in Bainbridge, GA, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.



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Mickey Clenney     68

     Mr. Mickey Clenney of Colquitt died Friday, May 7, 2021, at Miller County Hospital. Graveside funeral services will be Sunday, May 9, 2021, at 2:00 PM at Cook's Union Cemetery with Rev. Scott Messer officiating.

     Mr. Clenney was of the Christian faith and owned Clenney Produce.

     He is survived by his companion, Marylynn Moody of Colquitt, GA; one son, Cameron Clenney of Riveria, FL; one daughter, Micki Nicole Clenney of Florence, AL; two grandchildren; mother, Annie Pearl Clenney of Colquitt, GA; one brother, Terry Clenney of Colquitt, GA; and a large number of nieces, nephews, and friends.  Mr. Clenney was preceded in death by his father, E.V. Clenney, and one brother, Larry Clenney.

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Hayward Lamar Houston     76

     Mr. Hayward Lamar Houston of Blakely died Monday, May 3, 2021, at South East Health. Funeral services will be Friday, May 7, 2021, at 2:00 PM at Sheffield Funeral Chapel with Rev. John Calhoun officiating. Visitation will be Friday, May 7, 2021, from 1:00-2:00 PM at Colquitt Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Blakely City Cemetery with Gabe Pugh, Ryan Kennedy, Ronnie McDonald, Trip McDonald, Joe Edwards and Obie Pittman serving as pall bearers.

     Mr. Houston was a member of South Mt. Zion Church of God and was self employed in lawn maintenance.

     He is survived by his wife, Wanda Houston of Blakely, GA; one step son, William (Pam) Kennedy of Sylvester, GA; one daughter-in-law, Charlotte Kennedy of Blakely, GA; six grandchildren, Brandon Kennedy, Brittany Edwards, Brianna Kennedy, Cory Kennedy, Kenley Kennedy, and Ryan Kennedy; six great grandchildren, Elijah Spriggle, Everleigh Kennedy, Joseph Edwards, Jace Edwards, Declan Kennedy and Rileigh Kennedy; and one sister, Martha Ellen (Phillip) Price of Byron, GA.  Mr. Houston was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Laverne Pyle Houston; and one step son, Kenneth Wade Kennedy.

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Barbara Joyce Sheffield     78

     Mrs. Joyce Sheffield of Colquitt died Friday, April 30, 2021, at Tallahassee Memory Care. Graveside funeral services will be Tuesday, May 4, 2021, at 11:00 AM at Cook's Cemetery with Rev. Charlie Boyd officiating.

     Mrs. Sheffield was a member of Cook's Union United Methodist Church and as secretary at Miller County High School.

     She is survived by her husband, Arthur Ronald "Ronnie" Sheffield of Colquitt, GA; one daughter, Lee (Richard) Calhoun of Crawfordville, FL; two grandchildren, Julia (Juan) Jimenez and James Calhoun; and two brothers, Horace Worsley and David Worsley, both of Colquitt, GA.  Mrs. Sheffield was preceded in death by her parents, Bob and Amanda Caddis Worsley; one sister, Alice Jane Berrioes; and one brother, Lon Worsley.

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Vada Vinson Griffin     90

     Mrs. Vada Vinson Griffin of Damascus died Saturday, May 1, 2021, at her residence. Funeral services will be Tuesday, May 4, 2021, at 3:00 PM at Sheffield Funeral Chapel with Rev. Scott Stanfill officiating. There will be private family burial at Colquitt City Cemetery.

     Mrs. Griffin was a homemaker, a wonderful cook and artistically talanted and was a member of Harmony Methodist until their memberships were moved to Colquitt United Methodist Church. She also enjoyed attending nearby Macedonia Free Will Baptist Church in her later years where she was able to drive to by herself.

     She is survived by one daughter, Ann (John) Peters of Albany, GA; three grandchildren, John Andrew (Lesley) Peters of Atlanta, GA, Wendi (Brian) Donley of Colquitt, GA, and Matthew Griffin of Colquitt, GA; four great grandchildren, John Morgan Peters, Vada Caroline Peters, Emma Grace Donley, and Jack Griffin Donley; and one daughter-in-law, Wanda Griffin of Colquitt, GA.  Mrs. Griffin was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Claude Griffin; one son, Steve Griffin; parents, George and Callie Harrell Vinson; and one brother, Leonard Vinson.

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  Roger Kiplin "Kip" Glass     57

     Mr. Roger Kiplin "Kip" Glass died Monday, April 26, 2021, at Miller County Emergency Room. A memorial service will be held Sunday, May 2, 2021 at 2:00 PM at Colquitt First Baptist Church with Rev. Chad Cooper and Rev. Mark Worsley officiating.  Family will receive friends immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Colquitt First Baptist Church at, 351 East Pine Street, Colquitt, Ga., 39837.

     Mr. Glass was a member of First Baptist Church and worked as a Supervisor at Patchogue Plymouth in Bainbridge, GA. Kip was a great mechanic and small engine repairman. He was an avid sport fan, loved all things Georgia, Bulldogs, Braves, and Falcons, and loved his church family at First Baptist Church.

     He is survived by one son, Cameron (Ashli) Glass of Donalsonville, GA; two grandchildren, Luna and Jana; two sisters, Crystal (Eric) Gaulden of Donalsonville, GA and Renee Wilkerson of Swainsboro, GA; one brother, Terry Glass of Oshkosh, WI; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; and his best friend, Bryan and Karla Cloninger of Colquitt, GA.  Kip was preceded in death by his parents, William and Bobbye Wood Glass; three brothers, Billy Glass, Ricky Glass, and Gary Glass; and one nephew, Lee Middleton.

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Christine Tully Harrison     97

     Mrs. Christine Tully Harrison of Marietta, GA died Monday, April 26, 2021 in Kennesaw, GA. Graveside funeral services will be held Saturday, May 1, 2021 at 11:00 AM at Mother's Home Cemetery.

     Mrs. Harrison was a homemaker, military wife, and worked as a manager for Macy's. She was of Baptist faith.

     She is survived by two daughters, Gloria (Jim) Lotz of Marietta, GA and Phyllis (Larry) Harwood of Sumter, NC; five grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; and one brother, Glen Tully of Colquitt, GA.

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Kathleen Sheffield Cook

Kathleen S. Cook, age 90, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 23, 2021, at Seminole Manor Nursing Home in Donalsonville surrounded by her loving family. She went to be with the Lord after a brief battle with lung cancer. Kat was born December 2, 1930, to Charlie C. and Susie Belle Ritchie Sheffield, one of six children who are all deceased. She was a life-long resident of Miller County from Mayhaw to Brooks’ Still. Graduating in 1948 from MCHS, she worked as a bookkeeper at Citizen’s Bank, The Carousel, and Fre-Jan’s. She married Henry Earl Cook in 1950 and the couple welcomed four children into their family.

Their children include:

Kathy C. Bennett and Chandler. Her children, Jay and Trena Kimbrel, his children Cody and Kate Lovin, Callie Kimbrel, Jack Kimbrel and stepson Wilder Etheridge. Michael and Jenny K. Adcock, her children Jameson and Bethany Burch and Bryson, Becky Cobb and Rhett, Betsy Bodrey, and Buck Bodrey. Jo Kathleen Kimbrel.

Henry E. Cook, Jr. and Charlotte. His daughter Hannah Birdsong and her children Lanie Birdsong and Coulter Birdsong. His son Henry E. Cook, III (deceased) and step-son Dylan Cox. Their son Wil Cook.

Cheryl C. Bridges and Paul. Their children Tripp and Katie Bridges and Lanier, Drew and Meagan Bridges, Andy, Amelia, Austin, and Ace. Ben Bridges

Michael A. Cook and Peggy. His daughter Analeigh Cook.

Kathleen was a fun-loving, light-hearted crackerjack that most people liked to be around. She said what she thought and rarely apologized. Laughter and smiles accompanied her wherever she went. She greatly loved her graduating class and mentioned them frequently in her tales. She loved Comer Williamson, a former preacher at FBC until Carl Marshall arrived. She was already at Seminole Manor when our new preacher came to town, so she adopted Scott Messer and his lively singers at the Manor. Jo Bush was the best Sunday School teacher ever, she would say. She became the cheerleader at SMNH and kept the hallway hot with her wheelchair. “Cookie,” as they dubbed her there, made the rounds with some of the nurses and shared treats and hugs with other residents. Encouraging others to exercise, do crafts and games, sing, and get out of bed made her a popular resident. Residents’ and Staff’s heartfelt response at her passing illustrated how Kat’s time at SMNH left a lasting, positive impact.

A Celebration of Her Life will be Sunday, 4/25 at 3:00 pm with visitation at 2:00 pm at First Baptist Church of Colquitt. Her husband Buck also died on 4/23 and was buried on 4/25.

Most who knew Kathleen knew she was an Elvis fan. A slideshow of her life will be shown to Elvis Gospel Music during the visitation. Pallbearers will be grandsons, G.J. Kimbrel, IV, Paul L. Bridges, III, Andrew R. Bridges, Benjamin H.T. Bridges, and William H. Cook, with a Red Bird Memorial left to honor Hank’s son who died tragically in 2008.

St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Swamp Gravy (CMAC), and Seminole Manor are places Kat would love to see her memory honored, but flowers will be accepted.

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James McDonald   23

James McDonald, 23 years old, passed away suddenly on April 19, 2021 in Lake City, Florida. He began his life in Ponce De Leon, Florida on September 10th, 1997 and was brought up by his loving parents, Stacy Chambers and Tommy McDonald. He moved to Georgia at the age of three, where he spent the rest of his childhood growing up with his two brothers, Allen and Tanner. James fell in love with fishing and hunting at an early age and that love only grew with time. He attended Miller County High School and when he was 14 years old, he started logging with his dad. Later, he went on to become a part of the construction and welding industries. James could not meet a stranger and you could not meet a more loving person than him. He had the most beautiful smile. There is not a person that he would not have given the shirt off his back to help. One of the other loves in his life was his dog, Sadie. His favorite scripture was one that stuck with him, Philippians 4:13 “I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me”. For those that he had to leave behind, the world is much a dimmer place without him.

James leaves a loving and devoted family to cherish his memory. His parents, Stacy Chambers (Chris) and Tommy McDonald (Carla); brothers, Allen and Tanner; On his maternal side, he is also survived by his grandparents, Wanda and Keith Lawrence; Aunt, Debbie Brown-Graves (Paul), Uncle, Steve Brown (Brandy), cousins, Courtney Currid (Jordy); Jordan Dahnke (Royce), Lillian and Jasmine Brown along with Collin and Calvin Currid. He also is survived by his older sister, Bethany Gorman (Jeff) and nephew, Payton. On his paternal side, he is also survived by his grandparents, Don and Judy McDonald; his aunt, Tina McKenzie (Randy), his aunt, Sandy Gates (Mike) along with many cousins. He also left behind numerous friends.

He is preceded in death by his grandfather, Steve Brown; his grandmother, Peggy McDonald; his great-grandfather, Calvin Garrett and great-grandmother Ruth Garrett; as well as his great-grandfather, O.C. Brown and great grandmother, Sarah Curtis Brown.

A time of Visitation will be held on Monday, April 26th, 2021 from 11am to 12pm, at Colquitt Funeral Home with Pastor Stanley Phillips officiating. He will be laid to rest at Friendship Baptist in DeFuniak Springs.  If you are purchasing flowers, please purchase wildflowers in memory of his time as our wild child. Elaine’s Colquitt Florist- (229) 758-5807 per family request.

In appreciation, we the family wish to express immense gratitude for your support in our time of sorrow.  

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Dr. William "Billy" I. Sheffield     95

     Dr. William "Billy" I. Sheffield of Roswell, GA, passed away on April 17, 2021, at Heritage Hospice in Marietta, GA. The family will receive visitors at Northside Chapel Funeral Directors on April 20, 2021, from 1:00-3:00 PM and 5:00-7:00 PM. There will be a private burial at a later time. Visitation at Colquitt Funeral Home will be Wednesday, April 21, 2021, from 4:00-6:00 PM.

     Dr. Sheffield was born in Miller County on March 25, 1926. Dr. Sheffield served in the Navy and was stationed on the USS Cowpens during WWII. He served in the Army Quartermaster Corp. during Korea. Dr. Sheffield loved to garden, walk and socialize and is known by many as the "old man that walked 5 miles a day." It wasn't uncommon to see cars stop on the side of the road, offering him a ride home. He would just wave his t-shirt and keep on walking. Dr. Sheffield was principal of W.F. Slaton Elementary in Atlanta, GA. He sold real estate for Nelson Realty in the summers.

     Dr. Sheffield is survived by his children, Martha Harris of Roswell, GA; Susan (Ralph) McGillvary of Ohio; grandchildren, Joseph (Alyssa) Harris, Jacob, Cody (Kirsti) and Alexander (Tiffany) McGillvary; four great grandchildren, Alexa, Aiden, Maxwell, and Madeline; and his sister, Rebecca (Jim) McBrayer of Rome, GA. He was preceded in death by his wife, Martha Jane Williford Sheffield; an infant daughter; and his parents, Steve and Christine Stanton Sheffield.

     The family would like to extend their appreciation to all the friends and family who have sent their thoughts and prayers. A special thank you to those at Saint Joseph's Hospital, Dr. Gina Lundberg and her staff, Kadan Home Health Care and Heritage Hospice for the compassion and care given to Dr. Sheffield. A very special thank you to Isioma Nwabuze for her loving care of Daddy, her patience, and joy at being with him.

     In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or the Heart Association.

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Thomas Glenn Collins     66

     Mr. Thomas Glenn Collins of Colquitt died Sunday, April 18, 2021, in Thomasville. Graveside funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 20, 2021, at 4:00 PM in the Colquitt City Cemetery with Rev. Chad Cooper officiating.

     Mr. Collins was self employed in lawn mower repair and was a 1974 graduate of Miller County High School.

     He is survived by his father, Thurman Collins of Colquitt, GA; one sister, Angie (Ken) Kisfalusi of Colquitt, GA; one niece, Hope Starling of St. Petersburg, FL; and one uncle, Kenneth Bryson of Seaford, DE.  Mr. Collins was preceded in death by his mother, Anita Collins.

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Ada Geer McConnell Scruggs Beamon

     Ada Geer McConnell Scruggs Beamon passed away peacefully at her home in Marietta, Georgia on Thursday, April 15, 2021, with her son Garret and Her niece Carol at her side and her faithful dog Kate at her feet. She is preceded in death by her husband William Beamon III, her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Zack Geer, Sr., and her brother Peter Zack Geer, Jr.

     She is survived by her son Garret Geer, her niece Carol Geer Freitas, Great niece Melanie Freitas and her daughter Mahealani, her nephew Zack Geer, III and his sons, Zack and Harrison. She is also survived by several loving cousins and one aunt, Mrs. Nell Geer.

     She was educated in the public schools of Miller County, Georgia. Ada attended Mercer University for one year; she then attended Florida State University where she graduated witha BA in English. Later education at Georgia State University included a Masters in English Eduction and a T-6 degree in Library Science.

     Ada taught school for most of her career at Roswell High School, retiring after 30 years as an educator. Later in life Ada developed a love of flowering shrubs and annuals. As she was able, she planted and attended these flowers. Ada was devoted to her family and friends and her beloved hometown Colquitt, Georgia

     Memorial services will be held at The Colquitt United Methodist Church on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, at 2:00 PM.

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Lawson "Pee Wee" Hart     82

     Mr. Lawson "Pee Wee" Hart of Colquitt died Wednesday, April 14, 2021, at his residence.  Funeral services will be Saturday, April 17th, 2021, at 2:00 PM at Sheffield Funeral Chapel with Rev. David Grubbs and Rev. Scott Messer officiating.  Interment will follow at Cook's Cemetery. Visitation will be Saturday, April 17, 2021, from 1:00-2:00 PM at Colquitt Funeral Home.

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Kevin Michael Fitzpatrick  32

     Kevin Michael Fitzpatrick, age 31, passed away Thursday, April 8, 2021. He was born in Atlanta, GA on July 21, 1989 to the Walter John Fitzpatrick and Donna Houston Fitzpatrick and a beloved younger brother to Justin.



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Noah Wilkin Black     92

     Mr. Noah Black of Colquitt died Thursday, April 8, 2021, at Lagrange Hospice.  Graveside services will be Tuesday, April 13, 2021, at 2:00 PM at Shepard Cemetery with Rev. Richie Vaughn officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday, April 13, 2021, from 1:00-2:00 PM at Colquitt Funeral Home. Active pallbearers will be Gary Salter, Kell Boyette, Lyle Boyette, Steve Reynolds, Byron Reynolds, and Charles Wester.

     Mr. Black was a retired farmer and a member of Assembly of God where he was secretary and treasurer for 40 years.

     He is survived by one daughter, Kathy (Byron) Reynolds of Roanoke, AL; one stepdaughter, Frances Salter of Albany, GA; three grandchildren, Dr. Kathryn (Wade) Murphy of Hunnington, WV, Dr. Rebecca (Daniel) Thompson of Birmingham, AL, and Byron Reynolds of Auburn, AL; and three great grandchildren, Lincoln Murphy, Elizabeth Murphy, and Asher Thompson. Mr. Black was preceded in death by the mother of his daughter, Ruby B. Black; his second wife, Rubye Tedder Black; and his parents, Walter Pickens and Eva Lillian Ingram Black.

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Aleathea Delory Shelley  63

     Mrs Aleathea Shelley of Brinson died Saturday, April 3, 2021 at her residence. Mrs Shelley will be cremated, no services will be held at this time.

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