Obituaries for Earle Rainwater Funeral Home

2010-04-25T21:04:00.002-04:00

MRS. CHRISTINE HAWKINS FOX, age 62, of Hwy. #114-Summerville, Georgia passed away Sunday (April 25, 2010) afternoon at her residence following an extended illness. Mrs. Fox was born to the late Howard and Mae Johnnie Umphurs Hawkins on July 16, 1947. She was a member of Dry Valley Baptist Church and was retired from Oak View Nursing & Rehab. Center.

Surviving are daughter & son-in-law-Melissa & David Adams of Summerville; son & daughter-in-law-Todd & Kristy Fox of Cartersville; grandsons-Justin Adams & Casey Adams of Summerville, granddaughters-Charleston Fox and Annabeth Fox of Cartersville; brother-Randy Hawkins of Summerville; special care giver-Terry Lynn Ozment of Summerville.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday (April 29th) at 11:00 A.M. from the Dry Valley Baptist Church with Pastor Jimmy Weaver and Pastor Terry Shores officiating, interment in Greenhills Memory Garden. Active Pallbearers Lamar Pettyjohn, Barry Woods, Hoyt Ballinger, Sammy Tapp, Mike Woods, Steve Morrison; Honorary Pallbearers will be Solomon’s Porch Sunday School Class of Dry Valley Baptist Church. The Family will receive friends at Earle Rainwater Funeral Home Tuesday from 6 until 8 P.M.; at other hours the Family will be at the residence of the daughter Melissa & David Adams #2340 Hwy #144-Summerville. Mrs. Fox will also be in state at the Church Wednesday from 10 A.M. until the hour of service.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge.

2010-04-25T20:49:00.002-04:00

MR. CHARLES WILLIAM MITCHELL, age 78, of #56 Mitchell Street-Summerville, Georgia passed away Sunday (April 25, 2010) in a LaFayette nursing home. A native Chattoogaian He was born to the late William Jessie and Mabel Rebecca Norman Mitchell on January 31, 1932. Mr. Mitchell was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Tabernacle, retired from the Lab of Inland Container, a U.S. Navy Veteran of Korea, and a member of Chattooga Lodge #704 F & AM. He was preceded in death by his wife the late Maudie Lee Mitchell.

Surviving are daughter-Debbie K. Mitchell Whaley of Summerville; grandson-Donavon Whaley of Summerville; step children-Kenneth C. & Renita Tucker of Summerville and Shirley Ann Waters of Rome; step grandchildren-Kenneth Tucker, Adam Waters, Michelle Waters-Baty; great granddaughter-Kaitlyn Baty.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 2:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Bobby Walston officiating, interment in Summerville Cemetery. Active Pallbearers-Donavon Whaley, Adam Waters, Kenneth C. Tucker, Kenneth N. Tucker, Donald Whaley, and Aaron Waters; Honorary Pallbearers Joe Cox, Sewell Cash, and the Staff of Shepherd-Hill Nursing Home. Visitation is Tuesday from 12 noon until the funeral hour. Flowers are accepted or contributions to the Alzheimer Association.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge.

2010-04-22T12:09:00.004-04:00

MRS. KATHRYN G. COLLINS, age 77, of Henagar, Alabama formerly of Summerville, passed away Thursday (April 22, 2010) morning at her residence. Born in Trion, Georgia on January 15, 1933, She was a daughter of the late John and Myrtle Holloway Hunter. Mrs. Collins was Church of God by Faith and retired from the preparation department of Mt. Vernon Mills. She was preceded in death by husband the late Alton Collins, sisters-the late Totsi Hunter, Lola Hunter, Mattie Priest Ledford, and Madlane Edgeworth Ledford brothers-the late Check Ledford, Hydress Ledford, and John Hunter- Granddaughter, the late Tosha Darlene Collins.

Surviving are daughter-Liz Hawkins of Henagar, Al.; sons-Donald Collins, Ronald Collins, Jimmy Collins all of Summerville, and Steve Collins of Gaylesville, Al.; sister-Carolyn Brown Hunter of Ider, Al.; brother-Gordon Hunter of Broometown, Al.; 23 Grandchildren, 38 Great Grandchildren; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Saturday (April 24) at 3:00 p.m. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Rev. John Mann officiating, interment in Summerville Cemetery. Active Pallbearers will be T. J. Hawkins, Jeremiah Hawkins, Joshua Collins, Andrew Collins, Mark Collins and Allen Collins. Honorary Pallbearers will be Nephews and members of West Berryton Faith Temple. Mrs. Collins will be in state at Earle Rainwater Funeral Home Friday where the family will receive friends from 6:00 till 8:00 p.m.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

2010-04-17T15:36:00.005-04:00

MR. CLYDE W. HENDERSON, age 64, of Henderson Road-Trion, Georgia passed away Saturday (April 17, 2010) morning in a Rome hospital following a sudden attack. He was born in Trion, Georgia to the late Wallace and Eunice Henderson on October 2, 1945. Mr. Henderson was a member of Trion First Baptist Church, member and Past Master of Chattooga Lodge #704 F & AM, and worked for WalMart at the LaFayette store.

Surviving are wife-Beverly Roberts Henderson; daughter and spouse-Missy and Tim Sterner of Jacksonville, Fl.; son and spouse-Kelly & Tina Henderson of Trion; grandchildren-Brooke Sterner, Brynn Sterner, Danielle Henderson, Elizabeth Henderson, & Matthew Henderson; step grandchildren-Josh and Autumn Hampton.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday (April 20th) at 11:00 A.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Rev. Jim Cordell officiating, interment in West Hill Cemetery with Masonic Rites rendered by Chattooga Lodge #704 F & AM. Active Pallbearers Larry Parker, Rayburn Mitchell, Tim Pierce, John Sterner, Danny Helms, and Ken Knight; Honorary Pallbearers will be all Masons. The Family will receive friends Monday from 6 until 8 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge.

2010-04-16T18:38:00.001-04:00

MRS. FANNIE MAE HUNTER, age 88, of Rocky Hollow Road-Summerville, Georgia passed away Thursday (April 15, 2010) afternoon in the local nursing home. A Chattooga County native She was born to the late Roy Clinton and Hattie Lemuel Veatch Allmon on May 1, 1921. Mrs. Hunter was a member of Midway Baptist Church, retired from Reigel Textile Corporation, and was preceded in death by her husband the late John Hunter on July 9, 2005.

Surviving are daughters and spouses-Kathleen Moon of Rome, Patricia & Delmer Williams of Leesburg, FL., and Sandra & Mike Richardson of Rutledge, GA.; 7 Grandchildren, 14 Great Grandchildren, 6 Great Great Grandchildren; special step great grandson Anthony Moon & wife Becka; 9 Step Grandchildren, 21 Step Great Grandchildren, 12 Step Great Great Grandchildren; sisters-Nellie B. Davenport of Summerville and Margaret Knight of Atlanta; several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held Sunday (April 18th) at 4:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Rev. Kyle Graham officiating, interment in West Hill Cemetery. Active Pallbearers Grandsons. Visitation will be Saturday from 6 until 8 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

2010-04-09T23:49:00.001-04:00

MS. BENITA LANGFORD, age 86, of Allen Street-Summerville, Georgia passed away Friday, April 09, 2010, in a Rome hospital. Born in Gordon County, Georgia on August 7, 1923, She was a daughter of the late Arch and Arrie Beck Reed. Ms. Langford was an accountant for the former Jackson Chevrolet and the former Garnett’s Furniture Store in Summerville later was a substitute school teacher. She was a member of Summerville First Baptist Church and the Dorcas Sunday School Class of the Church. Preceding Her in death was 2 sisters Sallie Reed and Annie Ruth Reed Waddell.

Surviving are sister-Catherine Van pelt Miller of Summerville; nieces and nephews-Kathy Vanpelt Brown of Summerville who was Her caregiver for many years, Lynn Hawkins of S.C., Peggy Waddell, Joan Waddell, Judy Waddell, Janie Lou Waddell, Jackie Waddell, Johnny Waddell, Jimmy Waddell; special friend & angel Virginia Barkley.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 13th, at 2:00 P.M. from the Summerville First Baptist Church with Dr. Paul Mason and Dr. Kenneth Summey officiating, interment in Summerville Cemetery. Active Pallbearers Gordon Allen, Dale Martin, Eugene McGinnis, James Alred, Joseph Jackson, and Mike Poole; Honorary Pallbearers Dorcas Sunday School Class of Summerville First Baptist Church, former employees of Jackson Chevrolet, Harold Jackson, Vernon Hayes, Pat Nix, and Elaine Martin. Visitation will be Tuesday from 1:00 P.M. until 2 P.M. at Summerville First Baptist Church.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge.

2010-04-09T03:35:00.003-04:00

MRS. GLENNA JO KOONCE, age 72, of Back Berryton Road-Summerville, Georgia passed away Thursday (April 8, 2010) evening in a Rome hospital. She was born in Walker County, Georgia on May 30, 1937, a daughter of the late Glen and Julia Frances Frye Stewart. Prior to retirement Mrs. Koonce was a medical assistant for Dr. H. A. Goodwin. She was preceded in death by Her husband the late G. W. Koonce on July 7, 2007 and a sister the late Frances Elaine Hartline.

Surviving are daughters-Sandra Grady of Cumming, Donna Bishop of Calhoun, Kathy Morrell of Melbourne, FL., and Arliss Scruggs of Summerville; son: Michael Chandler of Trion; step-sons-Kenny Koonce and Greg Koonce both of Summerville; grandchildren-Brian Chandler, Leigh Milam, Jamie Rollins, Matt Hayes, Zach Bishop, Lindsey Morrell, Matthew Morrell, and Julia Scruggs; 10 Great Grandchildren, several Nieces and Nephews .

Funeral services will be held Sunday at 2:00 P.M. from Graveside in Greenhills Memory Garden with Pastor Tommy Pledger officiating. Visitation will be Saturday from 4 until 6 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge.

2010-04-08T21:42:00.001-04:00

MRS. RACHEL PAULINE LANEY, age 84, went to be with the Lord Thursday (April 8, 2010). She resided at #31 Curran Street, Summerville, Georgia. Mrs. Laney was born to the late Walter and Ruby Abercrombie Collum in Cherokee County, Georgia on November 11, 1925. She was a wonderful, loving mother and homemaker, and was preceded in death by her husband the late Thomas Charlie Laney, daughter-Verdice Laney, sisters-Ethel Collum, Inez Peacock, and Nellie McGuire. She was a Christian in the body of Christ at South Commerce Church of Christ. She will be greatly missed by her family who loved her very much.

Surviving are five children-Linda Wooten of Summerville, Delvia & Bill Streets of Augusta, Darlene Hughes of Summerville, Rex Laney and Walley Laney both of Summerville; 10 Grandchildren, 16 Great Grandchildren; several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held Saturday (April 10th) at 12:00 noon from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Minister Tommy Broome officiating interment in Summerville Cemetery. Active Pallbearers will be Grandsons.
Visitation will be Saturday from 10 A.M. until the service hour at the funeral home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

2010-04-08T21:41:00.002-04:00

MR. MAX ROBERT COOPER, age 78, of College Street-Summerville, Georgia passed away Thursday (April 8, 2010) at His residence. A native Chattoogaian He was born to the late Zera M. and Martha Evelyn Bohannon Cooper on August 30, 1931. Mr. Cooper was a member, Elder , and Adult Sunday School Teacher of Trion Evangelical Presbyterian Church. Was retired papermaker from Inland Container-Rome after 31 years of service and a member of Floyd Springs Lodge F & AM, Rome Shrine Club, Yaarab Shrine Temple, and Rome Commandery #8. He was preceded in death by siblings-Vernon Cooper, Willie Cooper, Louise Copeland, and Sidney Cooper.

Surviving are wife-Irene Cooper; daughters-Debbie Cooper of Eagle River, Alaska, Sharon Cooper of Rome, Patti Smith of Summerville; grandchildren-Eric Thomas of Alaska, Jason Thomas of New Mexico, Shannon Cooper of Rome, Blake Thomas of Alaska, Matthew Smith of Atlanta; six Great Grandchildren; sister-Rachel Dillard of Summerville; several Nieces and Nephews.

Memorial service will be held Sunday, April 18th, at 1:30 P.M. from the Trion Evangelical Presbyterian Church with Dr. William Flanagan officiating

In lieu of flowers Family suggest contributions to the Masonic Childrens Home of Gideons International.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge.

2010-04-07T00:29:00.003-04:00

MRS. BETH MARTIN BARKLEY, age 90, of Lyerly Street-Summerville, Georgia passed away Tuesday (April 6, 2010) evening in a Rome hospital. She was born in Calhoun, Georgia on April 20, 1919 to the late Rev. J. A. Smith and Dora Pass Smith. She was a member of South Summerville Baptist Church and was owner/operator of the former Finland Pet Store of Summerville. She was preceded in death by husbands the late Holland B. Martin and the late J. C. Barkley, granddaughter-the late Laurie Diane Martin.

Surviving are daughters and spouse-Dorene & Bobby White of Dalton and Mary E. Martin of Summerville; son and spouse-Rev. Sidney & Marsha Martin of Norwood, N.C.; grandchildren-Susan & Scott Griffin, Gregg & Pam Martin, Tracy & Bill Grissett, and Stacy & Nick Beason; 8 Great Grandchildren; brother-James E. Smith of Decatur; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Friday (April 9th) at 1:30 P.M. from the South Summerville Baptist Church with Rev. Sidney Martin and Rev. David Craven officiating, interment in Summerville Cemetery. Active Pallbearers-Bob Blackwell, Don Blackwell, Gary Blackwell, Danny Ray Blackwell, Ronnie Jones, Mike Smith, and Melvin Capps; Honorary Pallbearers members of the Glory Bound Sunday School Class of South Summerville Baptist Church. Visitation will be Thursday evening from 6 until 8 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

2010-03-27T07:09:00.001-04:00

MR. LAWRENCE D. POWELL, age 82, of Mentone, Alabama passed away Saturday (March 27, 2010) at his residence following an illness. A native of Cherokee County, Alabama He was born to the late Albert Hinton and Mary Jones Powell on July 18, 1927. Mr. Powell was a member of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church and was retired from the card room of Mt. Vernon/Riegel Mills. He was preceded in death by six siblings-the late Katherine Cavin, Mary Nell Langston, Lois Boydston, Francis Cavin, Madelyn Downer, and Houston Powell.

Surviving are daughters-Kay Sentell and Margie Saine; son-Dwight Powell all of Mentone; brother-in-law-Owen Langston of Chattanooga; seven Grandchildren, twelve Great Grandchildren, two Great Great Grandchildren, Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Earle Rainwater Funeral Home.

2010-03-26T00:12:00.003-04:00

MRS. SUE YOUNGBLOOD, age 64, of Mahan Road-Summerville, Georgia passed away Thursday (March 25, 2010) evening at her residence. A native of Chattooga County, Georgia she was born to the late Herman and JoAnn Ledford Hunter on June 6, 1945. Mrs. Youngblood was preceded in death by her husband the late Tommy Youngblood and daughter the late Susan Reena Owens.

Surviving are daughters-Jane Sims and Tammy Grogan both of Summerville and Stephanie Owens of Menlo; son-Johnny Padgett; sister-Syble Miller of Summerville; brothers-Lee Fountain and Junior Hunter both of Summerville; several Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren, Nieces, and Nephews also survive.

Memorial service will be held Sunday 2:00 P.M.(March 28th) from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Rev. Junior Evans officiating, inurnment in Summerville Cemetery. Honorary Pallbearers will be the nurses of Heyman Hospice.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

2010-03-10T09:55:00.001-05:00

MR. JACK DOYLE WARREN, age 58, of Milton Drive-Summerville, Georgia passed away Monday afternoon at his residence. A Summerville native Mr. Warren was born to the late Jack Warren and Ann Abernathy Warren Martin who survives. Jack was an LPN working in Trion, Chattooga, and Northwest Regional Hospitals before retirement.

Surviving are mother and step father-Ann Abernathy and Bill Martin of Summerville; sister-Brenda Bearden of Summerville; brother-Billy Martin, Jr. of Summerville; aunt-Pam Dennis of Summerville; several Nieces and Nephews; special friend-Marie Sutton of Rockmart.

Memorial services were held Wednesday at 2:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Tommy Pledger officiating.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

2010-03-07T20:42:00.002-05:00

MRS. VIRGINIA SPAIN BULLARD, age 77, of Saratoga Way-Summerville, Georgia passed away Sunday morning at Her residence. Born in Summerville, Georgia on November 25, 1932 she was a daughter of the late Jimmie and Gertrude Norton Spain. Mrs. Bullard was a member of Lyerly First Baptist Church, was retired from the tufting department of Georgia Rug Mill, enjoyed part time teaching and was preceded in death by Her husband the late Bennie L. Bullard on January 28, 1990 and an infant son the late Kenneth Bullard on July 24, 1951.

Surviving are daughter & son-in-law Debbie and Kenneth Jennings of LaFayette; sons & daughters-in-law Dennis & Lisa Bullard and Steve & Mary Katherine Bullard all of Summerville; Grandchildren and spouses: Ken and Terri Jennings, Stephen and Jessica Jennings, Chris and Ashley Bullard and Charlie Bullard; five Great Grandchildren; sister-Phyllis Spain of Summerville; brother & sister-in-law Douglas & Allene Spain of Subligna; several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 12 noon from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Rev. Waydell Howell and Rev. Kenneth Jennings officiating, interment in Lyerly Cemetery. Active Pallbearers will be Adam Spain, Carey Maney, David Fletcher, Sr., David Fletcher, Jr., Larry Norton and Travis Young. Honorary Pallbearers will be friends and neighbors of Saratoga Apartments. Visitation will be Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the hour of service at the Funeral Home. The family requests no flowers and suggests contributions be made to the American Cancer Society, Gideons International or the charity or church of your choice.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

2010-03-07T00:28:00.005-05:00

MRS. BESSIE MAE EDWARDS, of Summerville, Georgia died Saturday, March 6, 2010. Born in Walker County Georgia on May 17, 1931 she was a daughter of the late Buel and Mary Etta McWhorter Hollis.

Survivors include two daughters and sons-in-law: Vickie & Ron Fisher of Summerville, Pam & Charles Carnes of Villanow; son and daughter-in-law Rodney & Ebeth Edwards of Villanow; sister-Jean Huggins of Summerville; two brothers and spouse: Clarence and June Hollis of South Carolina and Max Hollis of Trion; 6 grandchildren and spouses:Cliff and Betsy Fisher, Nikki Fisher, Lee and Jeremy Sentell, Anna Edwards, Samatha Edwards and Ty Edwards; 6 Great Grandchildren.

Graveside service will be Sunday at 4:30 P.M. in West Hill Cemetery with Minister Ron Fisher officiating. The Family request no food or flowers and suggest contribution to the Food Pantry at www.aaccwecare.com and in note section put for Bess Edwards or the animal shelter of Humane Society. Visitation will be Sunday forom 2 P.M. Until hour of service.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge.

2010-03-05T23:04:00.002-05:00

MR. PAUL SMITH, of Summerville, Georgia passed away Friday (March 5, 2010) evening in a Rome hospital. Native of Eatonton, Georgia He was born to the late James Paul Smith, Sr. and Willie Lee trotter Smith on August 18, 1922. Mr. Smith was a member, Deacon, and former Treasurer of Lyerly First Baptist Church, a Veteran of WW II serving in the U.S. Army Air Corps, and was former Supervisor of the shipping department of Bigelow-Sanford Georgia Rug Mill. He was preceded in death by His wife the late Mary Louise Hall Smith on August 18, 2004.

Surviving are nieces-Martha Ann Smith of Cartersville and Mary Hall DeFoor of Resaca; nephews-Johnny Martin Smith of San Diego, CA. and Herman Hall, Jr. of Ringgold; great nieces and great nephews-Myranda Stephews of Douglasville, Matthew DeFoor of Loflin AFB, TX., Hailey Hall, and Hannah Hall of Ringgold; great great nephew-Henry Stephews.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, March 7th) at 3:30 P.M. from the Lyerly First Baptist Church with Pastor James Baird officiating, interment in Lyerly Cemetery. Active Pallbearers-Homer Sewell, Herman Hall, Jr., Justn Stephens, Harold Ragland, Dan DeFoor, and Jeff Baggett; Honorary Pallbearers Deacons and Johnny Bryant Sunday School Class of Lyerly First Baptist Church. Visitation will be Saturday from 6 until 8 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

2010-03-05T23:03:00.002-05:00

MRS. JO WOODS, age 88, of Rome, Georgia formerly of Summerville passed away Friday evening in a Rome hospital. Mrs. Woods was born in Snow Springs, Georgia on July 16, 1921 to the late Joseph and Sarah Ann Hughes Wood. She was a Homemaker and a Member of the Summerville First United Methodist Church, and was preceded in death by her husband the late William g. Woods.

Surviving are daughters and son-in-law-Ann & Bill White of Hillsboro and Brends Hayes of Rome; granddaughter and spouse-Dana E. and Lance Davis of Hillsboro, TN.; great grandsons-Will Davis and Ben David of Hillsboro, TN.

Funeral services will be held Sunday at 1:30 P.M. from the Greenhills Memory Garden with Rev. Jodie Brock officiating. Visitation will be Sunday from 12 noon unti time of service.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

2010-03-03T22:06:00.002-05:00

MRS. TRESSIE WILMA BRYANT, age 80, of Spring Creek Road-Trion, Georgia passed away Wednesday (March 3, 2010) evening in a Rome hospital following an illness. Born in Center, Alabama on October 15, 1929, She was a daughter of the late Marvin Thomas and Allie Ozelle Mitchell Collins. Mrs. Bryant was Baptist by Faith, retired from health care, and was preceded in death by her husband the late Roy T. Bryant, Sr.

Surviving are daughters-Betty Wain of Gadsden, Al., Lillian Hendrie and Charlene Elan both of LaFollette, Il., Janice Luallen of Summerville, Barbara Hudgins of Trion, Madelyn George of Summerville, Teresa Bryant of Atlanta, Charlotte Bryant of Trion, Kay Kendrick of LaFayette, Marie Beason of Trion, Darlene Hughes of Summerville; sons-Johnny Thornton of Gadsden, Al., Roy T. Bryant, Jr. of Summerville, William Thomas Bryant of Summerville, and Ricky Bryant of Trion; sister-Elaine Collins of Summerville; brothers-Truman Ray Collins and Roy Collins both of Summerville, and Lamar Collins of Rome; forty one Grandchildren, eighty Great Grandchildren, several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held Saturday (March 6th) at 1:00 P.M. from the J.D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastor Walter Morgan officiating, interment in Summerville Cemetery. Active Pallbearers Allen Lowe, Robert Warren, Chris Wade, Tommy Edwards, Bud Bryant, Clay Brown; Honorary Pallbearers Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren. The Family will receive friends Friday from 6 until 8 P.M. at the Funeral Home; at others hours Family may be contacted at residence of a daughter Marie Beason #4641 Spring Creek Road-Trion.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge.

2010-02-28T21:29:00.003-05:00

MR. JERRY RAYMOND KIRBY, age 71, of Sunset Drive-Summerville, Georgia passed away Saturday (February 27, 2010) evening at his residence following an extended illness. A lifetime resident of Chattooga County, Georgia He was born to the late George Sidney Kirby and Ruby Lee Phillips Kirby who survives. Mr. Kirby attended the North Summerville Baptist Church, was retired auto body repairman, and a Veteran of the U. S. Marines Corps. He was preceded in death by a sister, the late Sara MacArthur and brothers the late L.M. “Bud” Kirby and Donald Wayne Kirby.

Surviving is His wife of 52 years-Barbara Bearden Kirby; mother-Ruby Phillips Kirby of Summerville; daughters and spouses-Kimberly Kay and Paul A. Smith of Nashville, TN., Kristy K. and Kalen Colbert of LaFayette, and Kerry Ketrine Kirby of Summerville; son and spouse-Kelly Kennon and Lou Ann M. Kirby of Tuson, AZ.; sisters-Dorothy Haney of Valley Head, AL., Kathryn Gravitt of Ft. Oglethorpe, Patricia Kirby of Summerville, Edith Lunsford of Summerville, Linda Langston and Linda Fowler both of Rome; grandchildren-Desiree Carver, Celsea McCann, Bethany McCann, Benjamin McCann, and Kassidy Kirby; great grandchildren-Addison McGuire and Aaden McGuire; several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Memorial service will be held Tuesday (March 2nd) at 5:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Pastors Tom Russell and Jimmy Bryant officiating. The Family will receive friends at the funeral home Tuesday from 3 until the hour of service. The Family requests no flowers and suggest contributions to United Hospice of Rome, 315 W. 10th St.-Rome, GA.-30165, American Cancer Society, or the Lung Association.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge.

2010-02-19T23:15:00.002-05:00

MR. JOHN CROY, JR., age 81, of Summerville, formerly of Rome, Georgia passed away Friday afternoon in a Rome hospital. He was born in Floyd County, Georgia on January 1, 1929 to the late John Croy, Sr. and Lillie Towell Croy. He was Baptist by Faith.

Surviving are sister-Bessie Sue Wooten of Rome and nephew-Eric Wooten of Summerville.

Funeral services will be held Monday, February 22nd, from Graveside in West Hill Cemetery with Minister Glaze officiating. His Family will receive friends Monday from 10 A.M. until time for service.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge.

2010-02-19T23:08:00.002-05:00

MR. Wayne Groce, age 83, of Summerville, Georgia passed away Friday, February 19, 2010, in a Rome hospital following an extended illness. A native Chattooga Countian, He was born to the late Charles Donald and Vera Josephine Stephenson Groce on January 6, 1927. Mr. Groce was a member of Summerville First Baptist Church, Deacon, and sang in the choir for forty years. He was also former Choir Director for South Summerville Baptist Church. He was the last surviving member of the Homeland Harmony Quartet, singing lead in 1951 through 1953. Mr. Groce sang at the Bill Gather Homecoming honoring the Homeland Harmony Quartet. He played pitcher, outfielder, and third baseman in the Georgia Textile Baseball League later coaching Little League baseball and softball. Was the former owner/operator of Summerville Pure Oil Service Station, was retired agent for American General Life & Acc. Ins. Co. Wayne enjoyed hunting, was an avid quail hunter, and a Veteran of WW II serving in the U. S. Army.

Surviving are His wife-Mary Elizabeth Groce; sons-Tim and Becky Groce, Don & Teresa Groce all of Summerville and Dan and Linda Groce of Fayetteville, GA.; sister-Joyce Parker; brother-Steve Groce both of Summerville; grandchildren-Brad & Kari Groce of Calhoun, Matthew Groce of Rome, Natlie & Jacob Williams of Calhoun, Whitney Groce of Fayetteville, Jared Groce of Summerville, and Daniel Groce of Fayetteville; 6 Great Grandchildren, Nieces, and Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Monday, February 22nd, at 2:00 P.M. from the Summerville First Baptist Church with Dr. Paul Mason and Dr. Kenneth Summey officiating, interment in Summerville Cemetery. Active Pallbearers-Brad Groce, Matthew Groce, Jarod Groce, David Groce, Jacob Williams, and Ben Groce; Honorary Pallbearers the Seekers Sunday School Class of Summerville First Baptist Church, Evon Woods, Amanda Driver, Sherry Carter, and Penny Cavin. Visitation is Sunday from 4 until 6 P.M. at the Funeral Home.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

2010-02-08T22:28:00.003-05:00

MR. STANLEY MOORE (STAN) WILLINGHAM, age 51, of Fish Hatchery Road-Summerville, Georgia passed away unexpectedly Sunday (February 7, 2010).
A native Chattooga Countian He was born on September 19, 1958 to the late Babe Lee Willingham and Shirley Ann Moore Willingham who survives. Mr. Willingham was employed by Farmers’ Furniture and formerly the Packing Department of Mt. Vernon/Riegel Textile.

Surviving are daughters-Amber Dover and Melissa Milan both of Lyerly; son-Adam Willingham of Summerville; mother-Shirley Willingham of Summerville; sisters & brothers-in-law-Le Ann & Bobby Mitchell of Cartersville and Fran & Tom Jones of Forsyth; brother & sister-in-law-Britt & Jan Willingham of Summerville; grandchildren-Nathan & Braden Willingham, Dylan & Daniel Dover; Nieces & Nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday (February 10th) at 1:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Rev. Terry Hurley officiating, interment in Greenhills Memory Garden. Active Pallbearers Lee Mitchell, Russ Mitchell, Jeff Smith, Sid Witt, Randy Ledford, and Rick Camp; Honorary Pallbearers the old Packing Department of Mt. Vernon/Riegel, members of Trion Golf Club, and former team mates. Visitation will be Wednesday from 11 A.M. until the hour of service.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

2010-02-02T11:20:00.002-05:00

Mrs. Emma Maxine Strange age 76, of Summerville, Georgia passed away Tuesday morning, February 2, 2010, at her residence. A native of Chattooga County, Georgia she was born to the late Lewis and Gertrude Ray Helton on November 29, 1933 and was a member of Berryton Baptist Church. Mrs. Strange was preceded in death by her son Ricky Strange, sisters-Pauline Bridges and Virginia Harris, brothers-Alvin Helton, Buck Helton, and Hobby Helton.

Surviving are two daughters Pat Brison of Lilburn and Sara Strange of Summerville; Four sons, Lewis Strange of Trion, Marty Strange of Duluth, Bobby Lee Strange of Birmingham, Al, and John Strange of Fort Oglethorpe; One sister Carol Davis of Berryton; Two Brothers Harold Helton of Berryton and Wayne Helton of Pennville; Four Grandsons, Clint Strange, Bo Brison, Alex Brison and Justin Strange; Six Granddaughters, Paula Schumacher, Emily Kendall, Shelley Strange, Jessica Hudson, Tara Cruise and Lea Hamilton; Eight Great Grandchildren, several nieces and nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday(February 3rd) at 3:00 P.M. from the J. D. Hill Memorial Chapel of Earle Rainwater Funeral Home with Megan Strange and Pastor Mickey Skates officiating, interment in Summerville Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 2 P.M. until the hour of service. Active Pallbearers will be Clint Strange, Bo Brison, Justin Strange, Alex Brison, Kenny Kendall, and Pierre Hudson. Honorary Pallbearers will be Country Side Hospice and Tonya Dawson. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made to St. Jude’s Children Hospital.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

2010-01-30T14:31:00.001-05:00

MRS. MARY ANN PESTERFIELD, 83, of Summerville, Georgia died Saturday, January 30, 2009, morning in a Rome hospital, while surrounded by her loving family and friends. Born in Summerville, Georgia on February 22, 1926, the daughter of the late Mr. & Mrs. William King, Sr. She was graduated from Georgia State College for Women and taught 4th grade at Summerville Elementary School for 30 years. She received her Masters of Education from the University of Georgia, and was honored as Chattooga County Star Teacher in 1971. In 1975 she married E.C. Pesterfield, Sr. who preceded her in death June , 1991. Mrs. Pesterfield was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, Iota Chapter, Chattooga County Retired Teachers Association and Saint Barnabas Episcopal Church, Trion, Georgia.

Survivors include son-Thomas E. Neal, Athens; step daughter-Mrs. Kirk (Anne Pesterfield) Krueger, Trion; step son-J. David Pesterfield, Florida; nieces-Betsy King Dellenback and Mrs. Malcolm (Lucy King) Lee, Summerville, & Mrs. Marvin (Mary King) Czentnar, Rome; sister-in-law-Mrs. John William (Elliott) King, Jr., Summerville; her brother, John William King, Jr. and step son, E. Charles Pesterfield, Jr. preceded Her in death. Grandchildren, Mrs. Douglas (Lyn Pesterfield) Murajda, Boiling Springs, S.C., Susanne Pesterfield, and Margaret Pesterfield, Atlanta, and William Krueger and Anna Krueger, Chapel Hill, N.C. Great Grandchildren-Jessica Pesterfield, Atlanta and John Savor, Boiling Springs, S.C.; six Great Nieces, Three Great Nephews, one Great Great Niece, and five Great Great Nephews also survive. Mrs. James (Elizabeth King) Abney is her one surviving first cousin.

Mrs. Pesterfield loved being surrounded by the laughter and joy of her numerous great (and great great) nieces and nephews and always encouraged them to enjoy life’s blessings and to do their best as they followed their dreams. Her love of nature was evidenced by the many birds attracted to her homes in Gore and in Summerville. The following gentlemen have been asked to serve as active pallbearers Adam Burdick, J Norris, John Oxford, James King Abney, Rob Dellenback, and Kelly Jordan; honorary pallbearers-James R. (Bud) Jackson, Sam Jones, and David Jones.

Family and extended family will receive friends at 1:00 P.M. prior to the service and Celebration of Life at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, January 31, 2010, at Earle RainwaterFuneral Home with Rev. Stephanie Pace, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Trion presiding. Margaret-Elliotte Czentnar, great niece, will provide a trumpet prelude and special music selected for the service by Mrs. Pesterfield. Interment will follow at Summerville Cemetery. The Family respectfully request in lieu of flowers that memorial contributions be made to St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Trion, Georgia.

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge.

2010-01-30T10:21:00.004-05:00

MRS. PARTICIA H. (PATTI) KING . age 57, of Cloudland, Georgia passed away Saturday, January 30, 2010, at her residence following an extended illness. A native of Atlanta, Georgia She was born to the late Mary Ruth Walker Hawkins and Charles Henry Hawkins, Sr. who survives, on June 7, 1952. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church P.C.A. and a former Teacher.

Surviving are Her husband Rev. Greg King; father-Charles Hawkins, Sr. of Summerville; daughter & spouse-Cathy & Matt Buckland of Orlando, FL.; son-Michael King of Asheville, N.C.; brother-Charles Hawkins, Jr. of Sautee, Georgia.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, February 4th) at 7:00 P.M. from the First Presbyterian Church P.C.A. with Rev. James Richter officiating, interment on Friday, February 5th, in Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church Cemetery Tallbott, Tennesee. Visitation will be Thursday, February 4th, immediately following the Funeral Service at the Church. The Family suggest contributions to the American Cancer Society or World Vision for Haiti Relief-P.O. Box 9716-Federal Way, WA.-98063-9716

Earle Rainwater Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.