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

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

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.

07/02/2026

Dalceda Roberts, 93, of Valdosta, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family, on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. She was born in Tom's Crossing, Georgia, to the late Ichabod Fouraker, Sr. and Verdie Rhoden Fouraker.

Mrs. Roberts was employed by Levi's before dedicating herself to raising her children and caring for her family. She loved her Lord and Savior and was of the Methodist faith.

She is survived by her children, Sherry Williams of Valdosta, Anita Evans (Jerry) of North Carolina, James H. Roberts, Sr. (Martha) of Lakeland, Georgia, and Carl L. Roberts, Jr. of Valdosta; her sister, Bashie Copeland of Lake Park, Georgia; nine grandchildren; and fourteen great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Carl Lewis Roberts, Sr., and her siblings, Riley Fouraker, Vashti Touchton, Louell Jackson, Ruby Morgan, Owen Fouraker, Verdie Mae Agner, Ichabod Fouraker, Jr., and Bill Fouraker.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, July 3, 2026, at Mt. Horeb Cemetery in Pinetta, Florida.

Condolences to the family may be shared at www.mclanecares.com.

Carson McLane Funeral Home is serving the Roberts family.

06/20/2026

James Darryl Bass, 65, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, June 19, 2026.

Born on April 16, 1961, in Palatka, Florida, Darryl was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, son, brother, and friend. On June 28, 1980, he married the love of his life, Josephine "Jo" Bass. Together they shared 43 wonderful years of marriage, raising their two daughters, Brianne and Casey, in Statenville, Georgia, until Jo's passing in 2023.

Darryl worked at Occidental (now Nutrien) for 44 years. He also served his community for many years as a volunteer firefighter and a member of the Emergency Response Team. A lifelong member of Statenville Methodist Church, Darryl loved his Lord, his family, and his church.

Darryl never met a stranger. He was known for his kind heart, friendly personality, and willingness to help others. He will be remembered for the love he had for his family and the many lives he touched.

He is survived by his mother, Lillian Barfield; his daughters, Brianne Deas (Barry) and Casey Corbitt (Shawn); his grandchildren, Ashton Deas (Karleigh), Annalyse Deas, Tyler Tucker, Ben Corbitt (Caitlin), and Brianna Graddy (Dylan); his great-grandchildren, Adelia and Eleanor Graddy; his sister, Gwen Hammock (Alvin); his brother, Keith Bass (Sissie); his sisters-in-law, Terri Bass and Darlene Lee; his brother-in-law, Raymond Lee; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 43 years, Josephine "Jo" Bass; his father, Jack Barfield; his brother, Ricky Bass; and his grandmother, Lula Deloach.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Harry T. Reid Funeral Home in Jasper, Florida.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Statenville Methodist Church in Statenville, Georgia, with interment to follow at Statenville Cemetery.

Darryl will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

06/14/2026

Sonya Montene Pike Mayne, 65, of Mayday, GA, passed away on Friday, June 12, 2026. She was born in Ft. Campbell, KC, on January 3, 1961 to the late Barbara Chauncey Pike and Henry Pike.

Mrs. Mayne attended the Macedonia Baptist Church, and also hosted a bible study group at her home for her neighbors. She was a true people person who was always ready to help a person in need.

She is survived by her husband of 36 years, Chuck Mayne of Mayday, GA; her four children, Chase & Jocelyn Mayne of Wyoming, Summer & Chris Little of Tennessee, Colby & Christina Mayne of Valdosta, GA, and Thomas Kohl Mayne of Mayday, GA; four grandchildren, Ireland Montene McGrath of Mayday, GA, Lola Little, Landon Little, both of Tennessee, and Kaisley Mayne of Valdosta, GA; brother and sister-in-law, John & Judy Pike of Hahira, GA; sister, Donna & Randy Merwin of Valdosta, GA; four-legged friends Prissy and Rip; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Mrs. Mayne's funeral service will be held at the Macedonia Baptist Church on Thursday, June 18 at 2 p.m., and will be officiated by Rev. Wayne Boykin. The family will receive friends from 5 - 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 17 at the Carson McLane Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared online at www.mclanecares.com. Carson McLane Funeral Home

06/09/2026

Adam Eugene Smith
March 15, 1976 — June 8, 2026
Adam Eugene Smith, 50, of Lake Park, GA passed away peacefully on Monday, June 8, 2026, at his home. He was born to Claude and Pamela Smith on March 15, 1976, in Cleveland, TN.

Adam enjoyed spending time outdoors shooting guns, hunting, fishing and playing with his wood! He could build anything and he made every one of Kathleen’s crazy plans come to life. His heart was at it’s fullest showing his babies all of the cool things he made for them.

He is preceded in death by his sister, Patty Smith, parents Claude and Pamela Smith and two angel babies, one niece and one nephew.

Adam is survived by his best friend, his world, his wife of 22 years, Kathleen Smith of Lake Park, GA; daughters, Victoria (Destiny) of Quitman, GA, Chelsea (Travis) of Valdosta, GA, and Mallory (Patrick) of Hahira, GA; sons, Austin of Mayo, FL, James (April) of Rogersville, AL; grandchildren, Maximus, Layla, Kynley, Alexis, McKayla, Aaron, Keegan, McKenna and baby boy on the way; great grandchildren, Esmae and Sinclair; sister Jeannie (Richard) of Staunton, VA, brother Alton Jr. of Lake Park, GA; nephew Preston (Katelin) and niece, Lindsey of Staunton, VA along with his Great Nephew Jasper and Great Niece Cora. Even in death, Adam continues to give the gift of life through whole body donation.

As per his wishes, Adam has donated his body to science to become a teacher of medicine at the greatest college on earth, UGA! Adam and his entire health journey from beginning to end was a series of anomalies that deserve to be studied. Time and time again, doctors were astounded by him and his body’s ability to survive and recover many life-threatening conditions that healthy individuals don’t overcome. He faced every setback with grit, tenacity, and an unwavering will to keep going. GO DAWGS!

Adam began writing an autobiography to which he opened with the following words. “I wanna start this by saying someone always has it worse. This is my story and I hope maybe there’s other people out there that my story may benefit them. If they’re feeling as if there’s no need to keep pushing on or are just ready to give up. Don’t you’re here for a reason! Stay strong and keep on keeping on!!” Adam would like to remind everyone to keep his legacy alive.Please consider being an organ donor.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Announcements will be made accordingly. Kind words and expressions of sympathy can be left for the family at www.musicfuneralservices.com. The Smith family is being served by the professional and caring staff of Music Funeral Services, Valdosta.

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.

Echols County Historical Society

07/08/2026

07/06/2026

07/06/2026

07/02/2026

07/02/2026

07/02/2026

06/20/2026

06/14/2026

06/09/2026

05/27/2026

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Museum

Shortcuts

Share

Category

Listing takedown request