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Echols County Historical Society, 131 Tillman Lane, Statenville, GA (2026)

05/27/2026

Browning Wiles Strickland passed away at his residence on May 22, 2026. He was born on January 3, 1971, in Saint Petersburg, Florida, and was raised by his parents, the late Curtis and Charlotte Strickland in Statenville, GA.

He found great happiness in hunting, fishing, ranching, and working the land. Known for his warm heart and lively sense of humor, Browning loved making others laugh with his jokes and stories. He also enjoyed relaxing evenings watching old television shows and spending time at the Smokin Pig, where good food and good company brought him great joy.

Above all, Browning loved his family. He is survived by his loving daughters, Heather Carolanne Strickland and Ashley Alexis Strickland, both of Valdosta, Georgia, grandchildren; Rhett and Baylor and Numerous nieces, nephews, and special friends including Tommy Smith and Tammy Corbett.

In addition to his parents, Browning was preceded in death by his sister, Erin Strickland Miller.

Before his death he expressed his true heart's desire to share with everyone the treasure of saving grace he received in Jesus Christ. He wanted so badly to share his testimony with anyone he could and tell them how Jesus had changed his heart and his actions. He wanted to tell of how he truly was blind before, but now he could see. Even as he wrestled heavily with himself, and his flesh, and shortcomings, he was a living testimony of how the Lord could pierce the heart of even the most stubborn and hardheaded men. He never doubted for one minute Jesus was who He said he was and accepted Jesus as his Lord and savior. He talked to Jesus as if speaking to a close friend and never shied away from sharing all parts of himself with the Lord, as he said he knew him anyways. He spoke to the Lord with boldness and courage and told others often with tears in his eyes, “I think He hears me as I never lie to Him.” He wished for everyone to experience the grace that was extended to him. And wished for everyone to put their faith in Jesus and not themselves. The verses listed below are the promises of the God he knew.

“For EVERYONE who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:13

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”

II Corinthians 5:17

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Romans 8:38-39

The family will be hosting a memorial service at Sardis Missionary Baptist Church at 6:00PM, Thursday, May 28, 2026. 128 Barney Rd. Lake Park, GA 31606. Kind words and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.music funeralservices.com. The Strickland family is being served by the caring and professional staff of Music Funeral Services of Valdosta.

05/04/2026

Charles Wesley Harrell, 79, of Naylor, passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at South Georgia Medical Center. He was born on January 17, 1947, in Nashville, Georgia, to the late Wilbur Harrell and Nancy Ella Parrish Harrell.
Mr. Harrell was a proud veteran of the United States Army, serving during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he pursued higher education and dedicated his career to teaching. He taught in the Valdosta City Schools, Echols County Schools, and at Open Bible Christian School. In addition to his work as an educator, he was a minister, an avid genealogy enthusiast, a drummer, and an athlete.
He is survived by his wife, Dianne Harrell of Naylor, Georgia; his daughter and son-in-law, Dana and Joey Ellis of Naylor; his son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Angie Harrell of Valdosta; and his grandchildren, Michael (Allie) Ellis of Fargo, Dakoda Ellis of Lakeland, Wyatt Ellis of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Presley Ellis of Naylor, Brayden Harrell of Valdosta, and Avery Harrell of Valdosta. He is also survived by his brother, Frank Harrell of Cookeville, Tennessee, along with many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Johnny Harrell, Jacky Harrell, and Debbie Harrell Browning.
A funeral service for Mr. Harrell will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Naylor Baptist Church, with Dr. Ernie Jones officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Good Hope Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Gideons International at www.gideons.org/donate.

04/26/2026

Tommy Alan Whitman, 66, of Mayday, died on Friday, April 24, 2026, following a brief illness. Born in Valdosta to the late Drew & Nelma Smith Whitman on December 29, 1959, he grew up in Valdosta and Miami. He graduated from Hialeah Lakes High School in 1978 and soon moved back to Valdosta. Here he began working at Joseph Food Service, but he soon began a career driving a truck, which he learned from his father, that would last over 30 years. He began driving for J B Hunt Trucking, but also drove for Avritt Express, Saddle Creek and others before driving for Crete Carriers most recently. When he wasn’t on the road, he enjoyed being out in the woods hunting deer. He was a faithful member of Macedonia Baptist Church where he participated with the Brotherhood at the church.

Survivors include his wife of 16 years, Carol Denmark Whitman of Mayday; two sisters and brothers in law, Janice & Mark Hinkley of Mayday and Joeann & Jorge Arana of Lake Park; two brothers and sisters in law, Richard & Brenda Whitman of Mayday and Drew & Michelle Whitman of Davey, FL. Also surviving are a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Robbie & Tracey Morse of Pinetta, FL, his sister-in-law, Shawn Morse Rogers of Pinetta; his father-in-law, Tom Morse of Pinetta; and a host of nieces and nephews.

The funeral for Tommy will be held at 11 am on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at Macedonia Baptist Church. Brother Christopher Reeves and Pastor Wayne Boykin will officiate. Burial will follow at Macedonia Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service on Tuesday from 10 am to service time. Condolences may be made to the family on the obituary page of www.mclanecares.com. McLane Lakewood Funeral Home.

02/24/2026

Christine Beck DeLoach, 88, of Echols County, passed from this life on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Langdale Hospice House. Christine was born on December 28, 1937, daughter of the late Dora Crosby and Arthur M. Beck. Widow of the late William L. DeLoach, she was a loving homemaker and worked beside her husband in his auto shop business. Christine was a faithful member of Macedonia Baptist Church and an active participant with the Echols County Senior Citizens Association.

Survivors include her stepchildren, Eddie S. DeLoach and Toni of St. Augustine, Florida, Diane Barker of Jacksonville Beach, Florida, and Gerald W. DeLoach and Terri of Crystal River, Florida. Numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren also survive as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded by her husband, William Deloach, her stepson, William DeLoach, Jr., her step son-in-law, Michael Barker and her two sisters, Betty Pennington and Sarah Butler.

A private family graveside service will be held for Mrs. DeLoach on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Wayfare Cemetery. Rev. Wayne Boykin will officiate. Carson McLane Funeral Home has been entrusted to care for the DeLoach family. www.mclanecares.com.

02/23/2026

Muril Bennett
Vernon “Muril” Bennett, 77, of Jasper, Florida, passed away on February 22, 2026, and was joyfully reunited with his beloved son, Sam.

Muril was born on April 20, 1948, in Stockton, Georgia, to Vernon and Onnie Lee Bennett. In 1956, his family moved to Statenville, Georgia, where he would grow up and begin shaping the strong work ethic and devotion to family that defined his life.

In 1972, Muril married his girl, Sheila Cooper. Their world was forever changed in 1973 with the arrival of twin sons, Dan and Sam—an adventure that kept Muril and Sheila constantly on the move. The family grew again in 1981 with the birth of their third son, Eric. Family was always at the center of Muril’s life, and everything he did revolved around providing for and being present with those he loved most.

Muril spent 40 years earning a living at PCS Phosphate (now Nutrien) in White Springs, Florida, where he became a valued and respected member of the dragline crew. He retired as Supervisor of Dragline Maintenance, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge, leadership, and meticulous notes that crew members have shared and still rely on from time to time. Even after retirement, Muril continued to offer guidance and support to the crew.

When he wasn’t at work, Muril could usually be found outside—throwing a baseball with the boys, working in the yard, or tinkering in his shop. As the boys grew older, they also came to enjoy playing some golf together, though Muril only truly enjoyed the course if one or more of his sons were playing with him. Fishing was his favorite pastime, especially trips to Bee Haven Bay with one of the boys, a grandson, or another willing buddy and a can of Vienna sausages to accompany a peaceful day on the water.

Muril liked to portray himself as strong and stern and often came across as gruff or grumpy. Even as life slowed down, he never stopped making sure his boys were “in line” and doing as they should. If he was unhappy, he made sure it was known. When grandchildren came along, that familiar demeanor earned him the affectionate nickname “Grumpy,” a title he carried with quiet pride.

In 2018, Muril endured the unimaginable loss of his son, Sam. True to his character, he stood strong through the pain, holding his family even closer. As steel is forged in the hottest fire, Muril’s love and devotion to his wife, children, and grandchildren only grew deeper.

Muril is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Sheila Cooper Bennett; his son, Dan Bennett and wife, Amanda of Jasper, FL; his son, Eric Bennett and wife, Caitlin of Key Largo, Florida; a nephew who was more like a son, Kenny Keeling and wife, Tracy of Pennsylvania; and his daughter-in-law, Maggie Bennett of Lake City, FL.

He is also survived by his brothers, Lamar Bennett and wife Glenda of Dasher, Georgia, and Tony Bennett and wife, Judy of Echols County, GA; his sisters, Gwen Swilley of Echols County, GA, Violet Corbett and husband, David of Echols County, GA, Hilda Richardson and husband, Ronald of Lanier County, GA, Nell Smith and husband, Billy Ray of Valdosta, GA, and Kim Bennett of Valdosta, GA; his brother-in-law, Andy Cooper and wife, Julia of Jasper, FL; and his sister-in-law, Yonna Lanier and husband, Donny of Live Oak, FL.

Muril leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Cross Bennett, Matthew Bennett, Layne Bennett, Cian Bennett (“Salty Sam”), Alexandria Milton, Preston Parks (Savannah), Jackson Parks (Samantha), and Pierce Parks; six great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Onnie Lee Bennett of Statenville, Georgia; his brother, Jimmy Bennett; and his son, Sam Bennett; and his brother-in-law, Bobby Cooper.

Muril’s life will be honored at a memorial service on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Jasper, Florida, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service.

12/26/2025

Chester Register, Sr.
January 18, 1959 — December 24, 2025
Pineland
Chester Register, Sr., 66, of Pineland, GA in Echols County passed away December 24, 2025. He was born in Homerville, GA as one of a set of twins on January 18, 1959, to Chandler Register, Sr. and Freddie Lou Chauncey Register.

Mr. Register was a carpenter and beekeeper for 48 years and helped build and remodel numerous homes across South Georgia. He loved the Lord, his family, and his home, Echols County. Mr. Register passionately served the people of Echols County though public office. He served one term as County Commissioner. He also served on the Echols County Board of Education from 1995 – 2016 including many years as chairman. Mr. Register served as a deacon of Macedonia Baptist Church and also attended New Vision Church of God. He enjoyed hunting and genealogy. Mr. Register was the founder of the Big Arm Hunting Club and past chairman of The Register Family Association.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Chandler and Freddie Lou Chauncey Register, Sr.; two sisters, Linda Lurainey Roberts Worth and Jacqueline Culpepper; three brothers-in-law, Alton Hardee, Royce Roberts, and Leon Worth; nephew, Caleb Culpepper; mother-in-law, Elizabeth Eugenia “Jean” Reid; numerous aunts and uncles.

Survivors include his loving wife of 37 years, Joyce Reid Register of Pineland; daughter, Elizabeth Register of Echols County, son and daughter-in-law, Chester and Jade Register, Jr. of Dasher, daughter and son-in-law, Candacey and Ethan Griffin of Valdosta; sisters, Audrey Hardee, Barbara and Jack Evans, Chandra and Kenneth Tutt all of Echols County; twin brother, Chandler Register, Jr. of Echols County; father-in-law, Juhan Reid of Echols County; uncle Johnny Chauncey of Enigma; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday afternoon, December 30, 2025, at 2 pm at Wayfare Primitive Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Wayfare Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Monday, December 29, 2025, from 5 pm until 7 pm at Roundtree Funeral Home.

Sympathy may be expressed online at www.roundtreefuneralhome.net.

Roundtree Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

12/19/2025

Grace Staten Vickers
June 14, 1940 — December 14, 2025
Hahira
Wilma Grace Staten Vickers, age 85, of Hahira, Georgia, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, December 14, 2025. Born on June 14, 1940, in Statenville, Georgia, she was the beloved daughter of the late Ferman Staten and Fannie Deloach Staten.

Grace devoted 37 years of faithful service as a supervisor in business administration at South Georgia Medical Center, where she was known for her strong work ethic, leadership, and compassionate care for others. She was a devoted and active member of Shiloh Community Church, where her faith guided her life and relationships.

Grace found joy in canning vegetables and cooking, generously sharing with family and friends. Above all, she cherished time spent with her grandchildren, creating lasting memories.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers: Jack Freeman Staten and Bobby Don Staten; her brothers-in-law, Johnny Drew Vickers and Howard Paul Vickers; and her stepdaughter, Terri Harwell.

She is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Robert Henry “Bobby” Vickers of Hahira, GA; children, Rhonda Grace Green (Rick) of Panama City, FL, Laura Vickers Fulp (Carl) of Hahira GA, Henry Drew Vickers of GA/FL Line, and step daughter Sherry Stamps of Carrolton, GA; grandchildren, Jon Henry Sankey (Nikki), Jade Drew Sankey, Carley Fulp, Caley Grantham (Brayden), Cavan Fulp, Staten Drew Vickers and Kati Anne Vickers; great grandchildren, Millie Sankey and Drew Henderson; siblings General Franklin Staten (Laverne) of Statenville, GA, Mary Bell Carter (Jackie) of Statenville, GA, and Gloria Anne Adams of Valdosta, GA and sisters in law, Florence Staten of Statenville, GA and Rudine Vickers of Hahira, GA; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, December 17, 2025, in the Valdosta Chapel of Music Funeral Services with burial to follow at Friendship Cemetery in Hahira, GA. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 from 5:00PM-7:00PM. Kind words and expressions of sympathy can be left for the family at www.musicfuneralservices.com. The Vickers family is being served by the professional and caring staff of Music Funeral Services of Valdosta.

12/05/2025

Mary Jean Hebert
November 26, 1941 — November 16, 2025
Stockton, GA
Mary Jean Hebert- 83

Of Stockton, Georgia passed away on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at her residence. She was born to the late William Eugene Norsworthy and Mary Sue Norsworthy on November 26, 1941, in Statenville, Georgia. Mary was an avid reader who found great joy in the written word. In her earlier years, she cherished the opportunity to travel, embracing new places and experiences. Deeply devoted to her faith, she loved her church and was a faithful, lifelong attendee. Mary was also a talented seamstress, creating beautiful pieces with care and creativity. Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Paul Joseph Hebert; sister, Betty Sue Martinez; brother, William Eugene Norsworthy, Jr.

Survivors include daughters: Jennifer Mock of Stockton, Georgia, Melinda O’Donnell (Dave) Temple, Texas, and Monique Nagel of Stockton, Georgia; son, Robert Santee (Wendy) of Memphis, Tennessee. Grandchildren: Megan Johnson (Randy), Vanessa O’Donnell, Shannon O’Donnell, Erin Padilla (Robert), Olivia Nagel, Jade Higdon, Ryanne Uhrmacher, Michael Mock, Charles Mock, and Christopher Mock; numerous great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family members; sister, Juanita Faircloth of Whigham, Georgia.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, Friday, December 5, 2025, at Wayfare Primitive Baptist Church. Kind words and expressions of sympathy can be left for the family at www.musicfuneralservices.com. The Hebert family is being served by the professional and caring staff of Music Funeral Services of Valdosta.

10/19/2025

Rev. James Williams, Jr.
December 27, 1939 — September 11, 2025
Orlando
It is with deepest sympathy Godfrey Funeral Home announces, Rev. James Williams, Jr., age 85, departed this life Thursday, September 11, 2025.

The Celebration of Life for the late Rev. James Williams, Jr. will be Saturday, October 18, 2025, 11:00 a.m., at Mrs. Eula C. Godfrey Memorial Chapel, 636 River St., Valdosta, GA 31601.

Interment will follow at Mayday Cemetery, Mayday, GA.

Public viewing will be Friday, October 17, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., at Godfrey Funeral Home, 636 River Street, Valdosta, GA.

Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online registry at www.godfreyfuneralhome.net.

Professional services provided by Godfrey Funeral Home, LLC.

09/26/2025

Herbert Hiers, a man of courage, intelligence, and thoughtfulness, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2025, at Fellowship Brookside. Born on August 11, 1945, in Quitman, Georgia, Herbert lived a life marked by dedication to his family, his country, and his community.

Herbert's early days in Quitman laid the foundation for a lifetime of hard work and service. After graduating from high school, he answered the call to serve his nation by enlisting in the United States Air Force. His time in the military instilled in him a sense of discipline and pride that he carried throughout his life. Upon his honorable discharge, Herbert transitioned to a career as an engineer with P.C.S., where he was respected by colleagues for his meticulous work ethic and innovative thinking until his retirement.

Family was the cornerstone of Herbert's world. He is survived by his loving daughter, Shannon (Jason) Thomas of Jennings, FL; his son, Shawn (Melanie) Hiers of Valdosta; and his brother, John Hiers of Lakeland. Herbert's legacy is further cherished in the hearts and memories of his extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Phillip and Della Mae Hiers, and several siblings, who helped shape the man he became.

An avid outdoorsman, Herbert's passion for fishing was well-known among his friends and family. He often reminisced about his youthful hunting adventures, but as time went on, he found his greatest time at his morning meetings at Banks Lake, where he enjoyed his morning coffee and camaraderie with fellow enthusiasts. Herbert's love for his community extended to his church, where as a member of the Statenville Church of God, he found strength and fellowship.

Herbert's life was one of steadfast presence. His courage was evident in every challenge he faced, and his intelligence shone through in the solutions he crafted, both at work and at home. Above all, he was thoughtful, always considering the impact of his actions on those he loved and the world around him.

As we say goodbye to Herbert Hiers, we celebrate a life that truly made a difference and honor a legacy that will endure in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 10: 30 a.m. at Statenville Church of God with the family receiving friends at 10:00 a.m. at the church.

In lieu of flowers please consider making donations to Statenville Church of God, 129 Church of God St., Statenville, GA 31648.

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