https://www.facebook.com/353177891393590/

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

10/06/2026

James Wilbur Carter Jr., better known as “Wildman” to many, passed away on September 30, 2026. James was known by many for his infectious personality, larger-than-life spirit, and kind and caring heart. His “Wildman” mentality began on the football field in Lowndes County, where he proudly played for the Lowndes Vikings. His passion and talent for the game carried him to Georgia Southern, where he played college football and, as a freshman in 1986, was part of a national championship team.

His love for football eventually led him into coaching, a role that allowed him to make a lasting impact on countless athletes. James understood that coaching was about more than wins and losses. It was about teaching young people to believe in themselves, face challenges head-on, and never give up. The lessons he taught his athletes were lessons he lived every day.

James had a resilient spirit that carried him through many challenges throughout his life. He never backed down from a challenge, and he instilled that same determination in his children. One of his favorite sayings was, “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.” He didn’t simply tell his children to be strong, determined, and persistent—he showed them how to live that way. His tenacity and grit were evident in the way he faced everyday life.

One of the things that brought James tremendous joy was becoming “Southern Santa.” Wearing the suit and bringing Christmas cheer to others gave him a sense of purpose and happiness. He loved seeing the faces of children light up, but he also loved the joy it brought to adults. For James, being Southern Santa was never just about dressing up—it was about making people smile, creating memories, and spreading a little more joy wherever he went.James’ greatest legacy, however, will be the people he loved and the lives he touched.

James Wilbur Carter Jr. was preceded in death by his father, James Wilbur Carter Sr., and his mother, Linda Moore Wood.

He is survived by his children, Emily Murphy (Alex), Tory Carter (Hillary), Kayla Hancock, and Kacy Hancock. He leaves behind his grandchildren, Lynlee Murphy, daughter of Emily and Alex Murphy; Lilly Carter and Juliet Carter, daughters of Tory and Hillary Carter; and Zyla Saint-Fort and Xavier Saint-Fort, children of Kacy Hancock. He is also survived by his sisters, Donna Vincent and Teresa Myers (Jeff), along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will forever cherish his memory.

James will be remembered for his infectious laugh, his determination, his love of football, his ability to make people smile, and, most of all, the love he gave so freely to his family, friends, athletes, and community. His “Wildman” spirit will live on in the countless lives he influenced and in the lessons he left behind: face the challenge, believe you can, and never give up.

In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made in James’ honor to the Boys & Girls Club PO Box 682 Valdosta, Ga. 31601-0682

The memorial service for James will be held on October 18, 2026, at 3:00 PM, with visitation beginning at 2:30 PM at Burnham Church in Jennings.

The service will be livestreamed on the Burnham Christian Church page. https://www.facebook.com/share/19bt3ByfYX/?mibextid=wwXIfr

10/05/2026

Gary Wayne Castleberry, 63, of Statenville, Georgia, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family.

Gary was born on March 20, 1963, in Jasper, Florida, and was a lifelong resident of Echols County, Georgia. He was a true outdoorsman who loved to hunt, fish, and trap. He bred, raised, and trained working stock Cur dogs and was known for saying, “I can catch anything from an armadillo to a gorilla.”

Gary was a millwright and mechanical engineer who could build or fix just about anything. He always seemed to have a way of getting the job done, whether it took a crescent wrench, duct tape, or mule rope. He worked for Allison Metal Fabrication for many years and formed friendships with his coworkers that became like family.

Gary was also an artist, creating and drawing many things for his family throughout the years. He had a great sense of humor and loved making people laugh, cracking jokes right up until the end. He was tough, hardworking, well-read, and seemed to know a little something about everything. Above all, Gary loved his family dearly, especially his mama.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Larry Castleberry, and his brother, James Castleberry.

He is survived by his loving wife, Monica; his children Alexis Harnage (Jason), Brean Castleberry (Heather), and Luke Stabler; his bonus children, Wells Cook and Tatum Cook; his mother, Rose Castleberry; his brother, Joey Castleberry (Theresa); and six grandchildren, Hunter, Tristin, and Levi Castleberry, Caleb Cowart, and Conner and Marlee Harnage.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, October 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Harry T. Reid Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Gary will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for his humor, strength, talents, and the love he had for his family.

09/23/2026

George M. Sikes
Aug 22, 1946 — Sep 18, 2026
Lake Park
George Madison Sikes, 80, of Howell, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 18, 2026, at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida.

George was born on August 22, 1946, in Jacksonville, Florida, to the late Dean R. Sikes and Myrtle “Honey” Roberson Sikes. He dedicated 30 years of his working life to the railroad before retiring from Norfolk Southern.

George was a proud Master Mason and a faithful member of Azalea Lodge #716. He dedicated 44 years to the Masonic fraternity and was also an active Shriner. His commitment to his Masonic brothers and the principles of brotherhood and service was an important part of his life.

Outside of his career and Masonic service, George found great joy in the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing and was affectionately known by many as the “Deer Slayer.”

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Ray Sikes.

He is survived by his wife, Karen McLendon Sikes of Howell, Georgia; daughter, Maredith Hall of Warner Robins, Georgia; son, Chris Hall (Laura) of Adel, Georgia; grandchildren: Cohen Moore and Everett Hall; sister, Audrey Scott (Phil) of Dublin, Georgia; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, September 25, 2026 in the Chapel of Music Funeral Services of Lakeland with burial to follow in Greenlawn Cemetery, Lakeland, Georgia. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM on Friday, September 25, 2026. Kind words and expressions of sympathy can be left for the family at www.musicfuneralservices.com. The Sikes family is being served by the professional and caring staff of Music Funeral Services of Lakeland.

09/22/2026

Doris Hagan, 93, of Jasper, Florida, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2026, at Haven Hospice, surrounded by her loved ones.

Doris was born on May 3, 1933, in Jasper, Florida, and was a lifelong resident of the area. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband of 55 years, Henry Hagan; her daughter, Judy Hagan; her brothers, Henry, Johnny Mack, and Harold Bracewell; her sisters, Myrtle and Nora; and her son-in-law, Tommy Staten.

She is survived by her daughter, June Staten of Statenville, Georgia; her son, Charles Hagan (Peggy); six grandchildren, Thomas Staten, Kelby Staten (Jennifer) of Statenville, Georgia, Amanda Chauncey (BJ) of Lake Park, Georgia, Charlie Hagan, April Carroll (Linton), both of Live Oak, Florida, and Matthew Hagan (Ketha) of Sevierville, Tennessee; 20 great-grandchildren; and 16 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Betty Bracewell and Alma Bracewell.

For approximately 15 years, Doris and Henry owned and operated Hagan’s Grocery in Jasper. Their store became a place where everyone was welcomed and treated like family. Her grandchildren especially cherish memories of Granny cooking sausage on a wood-burning stove in the back of the store and letting them choose one snack and one drink.

Doris loved planting and tending to her flowers and vegetable garden. She enjoyed cooking large meals for her family, no matter how many gathered around her table. She also loved fishing, and if she thought she had a “nibble,” she wasn’t ready to leave.

Doris was the heartbeat of her family—a hardworking and loving mother and grandmother who will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

08/19/2026

Donny Alvin "Chief" Manac
Oct 31, 1977 — Aug 15, 2026
Homerville
Donny Alvin “Chief” Manac, 48, of Homerville passed away Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Clinch Memorial Hospital after a sudden illness. He was born in Baxley, GA to Alvin “Tiny” Manac and Delores Corbitt Willis. Donny lived in Homerville most of his life and owned and operated Manac Lawn Service and was a jack of all trades. He was a member of the Fargo Church of God and the Poarch Creek Indians.

He was preceded in death by his father, Alvin “Tiny” Manac; one sister, Linda “Sissy” Tew.

Survivors include his wife, Adrienne Prester Manac of Homerville; his mother, Delores Corbitt Willis (Tillman) of Fargo; two sons, Chauncey (Katie) Manac of Lafayette, Louisiana, and Ashton Manac of U.S. Army; two step-daughters, Yolanda Prester and Fineise Prester both of Homerville; grandchildren, Aubri Manac, Jakyri Posley, Akailee Mason, Trevor Johnson, Tevan Posley and a grandson due in January; one sister, Beth (Blake) Leviton of Homerville; five brothers, Ray (Cheryl) Howling of Homerville, William (Tina) Howling of Fargo, Brent (Rachelle) Howling of waresboro, Caleb (Megan) Manac of Cincinnati, OH, and Taylor Manac of Waycross; brother-in-law, Larry (Nicole) Stevens of Ray City, GA; a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

A funeral service will be held Friday afternoon, August 21, 2026, at 2 pm at Cornerstone Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Pine Forest Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Friday from 12 pm until 2 pm at Cornerstone Baptist Church.

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

Roundtree Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

07/08/2026

Billie Jean Hunter Weaver, age 85, of Lake Park, Georgia, passed away on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Suwannee Valley Nursing Center in Jasper, Florida.

Billie was born on November 7, 1940, to the late William "Son" Hunter and Olivia "Dolly" DeLoach Hunter. She was a lifelong resident of Echols County. Billie was a seamstress and homemaker and was of the Pentecostal faith.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Gene Harold Weaver, along with several siblings.

Billie enjoyed cooking, fishing, gardening, flowers, sewing, and spending time with her friends and family.

Survivors include her children, Marie Boles (Leo) of Lake Park, Georgia; Windy Tucker (Jimmy) of Statenville, Georgia; Brenda Henderson of Statenville, Georgia; and Gene Weaver, Jr. ("Bubby") of Lake Park, Georgia; her brother, Orvis Hunter of Statenville, Georgia; her sister, Rosa Castleberry of Statenville, Georgia; 10 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be Bert Kight, Karter Kight, Jimbo Tucker, Blake Tucker, Colby Tucker, and Bentley Tucker.

Funeral services will be held Friday, July 10, 2026, at Harry T. Reid Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 12:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Hebron Cemetery in Jasper, Florida.

07/06/2026

Ronald Darley Kinsey
On July 1st, 2026, Ronald Darley Kinsey, 72, of Echols County, Georgia, finished his earthly walk and was welcomed into the arms of our Heavenly Father. Born on March 20th, 1954, in Valdosta, Georgia to Paul Wesley Kinsey Sr. and Grace Darley Kinsey, Ron grew up as the youngest brother in a lively, loving family. His gentle nature, quick humor, and generous heart shaped him into the man so many cherished.
Ron married his soulmate Lisa Holmes Kinsey on August 24, 1974, beginning a marriage of nearly 52 years, filled with love, faith, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Ron loved his family deeply, always going above and beyond to make their lives worthwhile. His grandchildren and great‑granddaughter were the pride of his life, and he poured his love into teaching them, building for them, and fulfilling the desires of their hearts. Another one of his greatest joys was capturing their memories through photographs—each one a testament to the moments he held dear.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, Lisa; his daughters, Katie Hodge and Kasie Bone; Kasie’s husband, Melvin Bone who was his son by heart, not just by marriage; his grandchildren, Justine Davis (Stone), Jillian Bone, J.P. Hodge, Lexie Bone, and Ella Bone; and his great‑granddaughter, Belle Davis. He is also honored by his siblings, Paul Kinsey (Pam), Chris Bremer (Dan), and Karen Hiers (Randy), along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who loved him deeply.
Ron did not walk alone into eternity—his son, Christopher Kinsey, entered the Lord’s golden gates with him. Together they rest in everlasting peace. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Paul Wesley Sr. and Grace Darley Kinsey, a treasured uncle, Manuel Kinsey, and numerous other family members waiting at the entrance with an overdue embrace.
Ron’s life was marked by hard work and heart. His dedication to air‑conditioning work, his craftsmanship, his landscaping expertise, and his dependable nature made him someone people could always count on. Each day, Ron found time to speak with his siblings, nurturing the God‑given bond they shared. Whether sharing a weather update, offering thoughtful advice, or proudly expressing his family’s accomplishments, Ron had a way of making others feel seen and supported.
His compassion was boundless, and his legacy will continue in the lives he touched.
Services and burial will be held Wednesday, July 8th, at Wright’s Chapel Church, with visitation at 10:00am and the funeral following at 12:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made through Wright’s Chapel Church of Echols County to the Ronald and Christopher Kinsey Memorial Fund.

07/06/2026

Christopher Adam Kinsey
On July 1st, 2026, Christopher Adam Kinsey, 49, of Echols County, Georgia, was welcomed into the warm embrace and eternal care of our Heavenly Father. Born on July 9th, 1976, to Ronald and Lisa Kinsey, Christopher grew into a man whose warmth, humor, and bright spirit made life richer for everyone blessed to know him.
To his family, Christopher was a beloved son, a loyal brother, and an adventurous uncle who filled ordinary days with laughter, mischief, and love. To his many friends, he was the one you could always count on—whether you needed someone to listen, someone to laugh with, or someone to remind you that life can be fun no matter the circumstances. His adventurous spirit followed him everywhere, turning simple moments into unforgettable memories.
He leaves behind his mother, Lisa Kinsey; his sisters, Katie Hodge and Kasie Bone (Melvin); his nieces, Justine Davis (Stone), Jillian Bone, Lexie Bone, and Ella Bone; and nephew, whom he shared a very special friendship and bond with, J.P. Hodge, all of which carry his memory close to their hearts. Christopher also leaves behind countless friends who will forever remember his notorious jokester nature and the many adventures shared between them.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Kinsey, who walked beside him into eternity—together forever, inventing gadgets and being imaginative. Also awaiting him was his cousin and eternal companion, Robin DeLoach, ready for the long‑overdue catching up they had been saving for Heaven.
Growing up and continuously living in Echols County, Christopher found joy in being outdoors, watching the stars, and caring for his furry companions throughout the years. He cherished peaceful evenings—listening to podcasts, relaxing by the fire, and surrounding himself with the people he cared for most. These interests became woven into the fabric of his life. They influenced how he loved, how he laughed, and how he showed up for others. His unwavering care for others and willingness to help were evident in everything he did, and he offered those gifts generously to anyone who was fortunate enough to know him.
Christopher’s love, adventure, compassion, and laughter were endless, and will be cherished for a lifetime.
Services and burial will be held Wednesday, July 8th, at Wright’s Chapel Church, with visitation at 10:00am and the funeral following at 12:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made through Wright’s Chapel Church of Echols County to the Ronald and Christopher Kinsey Memorial Fund.

07/02/2026

Martha Dollar Luke, 73, of Valdosta, passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. She was born in Valdosta on October 5, 1952, to the late Robert Harris Dollar and Bertha Lee Redish Dollar.

Martha graduated from Lowndes High School in 1970. While still in high school, she began working at her family's business, Dollar Church Seating Company, where church pews were manufactured. Throughout the years, she worked in both bookkeeping and production.

She and her family began attending First Baptist Church where she met Stanley Luke. They started dating and were married on March 11, 1972, sharing 54 wonderful years of marriage. Martha faithfully supported Stanley throughout his ministry, serving alongside him in churches across North Florida and South Georgia. They later served with the Georgia Baptist Convention before returning to Valdosta area.

Wherever they served, Martha was actively involved in the life of the church. She sang in the choir, led children's ministries, and taught children's Sunday School classes. Throughout her career, she also worked as a bookkeeper for Lee Office Equipment, Leo’s and Valdosta State University, among other employers, helping to provide for her family. She later served in administrative roles at Azalea Corner Assisted Living and Baptist Village in Waycross.

Above all, Martha was devoted to her family. She cherished every opportunity to nurture and maintain close relationships with those she loved, always offering encouragement, care, and support. She also loved spending time at the beach.

Mrs. Luke is survived by her devoted husband, Stanley Luke, of Valdosta; her daughter and son-in-law, Kimberle and Nick Kudyk of Valdosta; her son and daughter-in-law, Kyle and Cara Luke of Beeville, Texas; her grandchildren, Chandler (Magan) Kudyk of Hahira, Lydia (J.T. Williams) Kudyk and Lauren Kudyk, both of Valdosta, Garet Luke of the U.S. Navy in Gulfport, Mississippi, Grayson Luke of Beeville, Texas, and Gabe Luke of Beeville, Texas; her great-grandson, Archie Kudyk of Hahira; her sisters, Shirley Townsend of Valdosta and Beverly and Jerry Smith of Woodstock, Georgia; her father-in-law, Charles Luke; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her great-grandson, Malachi Williams; her brothers, Bobby Dollar and Larry Dollar; her sister and brother-in-law, Gwen and John Vance; her brother-in-law, Mike Townsend; and her mother-in-law, Alma Ruth Luke.

A funeral service for Mrs. Luke will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, July 6, 2026, in the chapel of Carson McLane Funeral Home. Burial will follow at McLane Riverview Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home.

07/02/2026

Jimmy D. Griffis, 83, of Lake Park, passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.

Jimmy grew up in Valdosta and graduated from Lowndes High School in 1961, where he was a member of the track team. Following graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving four years aboard the USS Essex aircraft carrier and attaining the rank of Chief Petty Officer. After his military service, he began his career with Southern Bell, which later became AT&T. He retired after more than 35 years as a telecommunications technician.

Jimmy was dedicated to serving his community in many ways. He served for many years on the Lowndes County Board of Equalization and was a devoted plasma donor for the American Red Cross. An accomplished woodworker, he handcrafted numerous keepsake boxes for the Beads of Courage program, providing support and encouragement to children battling cancer. He also served as the former volunteer fire chief of Twin Lakes, was a member of the Valdosta Yacht Club, a member of Lake Park Community Church, and most recently attended Wrights Chapel in Echols County.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Lynette Shepherd of Lake Park; his son and daughter-in-law, Christopher D. and Tami Griffis of Crestview, Florida; granddaughters, Ceridwyn Griffis and her husband, Skyler, of Tallahassee, Florida, and Rowan Griffis of Tallahassee; his brothers and sister-in-law, Gary W. and Brenda Griffis of Valdosta and Alan L. Griffis of Lake Park; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Barney D. Griffis, Jr. and Martha Lucy Stubbs Griffis; his first wife, Sandra "Sandy" DeLoach Griffis; and his sister-in-law, Jackie Griffis.

A memorial service for Jimmy will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 3, 2026, in the chapel of Carson McLane Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. prior to the service.

Echols County Historical Society

10/06/2026

10/05/2026

09/23/2026

09/22/2026

08/19/2026

07/08/2026

07/06/2026

07/06/2026

07/02/2026

07/02/2026

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Museum

Shortcuts

Share

Category

Listing takedown request