GRADY COUNTY GAGENWEB

JOHN AVERY
Obituary of John Avery - April 14, 1925 - November 17, 2001 (Cairo Messenger)

Mr. John Howard Avery, 76, of 3469 Collins Road, Whigham, GA, passed away November 17, 2001, at Grady General Hospital, Cairo, GA.
Mr. Avery was born April 14, 1925, in Decatur County, GA, to the late Eddie Avery and Edie Mae Norris Avery. He was married to Ruth Voncil Brock in 1944. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was a member of Gordon Heights Baptist Church, Cairo.
Services were held at Gordon Heights Baptist Church on Monday, Nov. 19, 2001, with the Rev. John Hasick officiating. Interment was followed at Greenwood Cemetery, Cairo.
Memorials may be made to Gordon Heights Baptist Church Building Fund.
Survivors include sons and daughters-in-love, John and Pat Avery, Cairo, and Rabun and Charcia Avery, and Richard and Leslie Avery, and Ronnie Avery, all of Whigham; a daughter and son-in-love, Diane and Earl Pilcher, Woodstock, GA; sisters, Laverne Wilson, Climax, GA, and Roma Cumbie, Pelham, GA; a brother, Rufus Avery, Ponchatoula, LA; 10 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. Mr. Avery was preceded in death by his parents, Eddie and Edie Mae Norris Avery; a sister, Thelma Cook; and a grandson, Howard Avery.
Heritage Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Submitted by Janet Sumner

FUNERAL CARD
MARY WILLIA WHITE BASS

In Loving Memory
Mary Bass
December 15, 1910 - February 6, 2000

Funeral Service
New Shiloh Baptist Church
Tuesday, February 8, 2000, 2:00 PM

Interment
Laurel Hill Cemetery

Officiating
Rev. Allan Sherrod
Rev. Elvis Clark

Survivors:
Daughters & Sons-in-Law:
Mary & George Blow
Betty & Neil Sherrod
Winnette & Greg Stinson

Son & Daughter-In-Law
Billy Joe & Dolores Bass
Sister
Essie W. Moncrief

Grandchildren
George W Blow, III
Nancy B. Goodwin
Gregory L. Bass
Karen E Bass
David & Debra Blow
Lisa & Darrin West
Ted & Cathy Harris
Teresa & Tommy Moore
Susan E Sherrod

24 Great Grandchildren
1 Great Great Grandson
Several Neices & Nephews

Preceded in Death by her:
Father: James Edward White
Mother: Mary Melvina "Vinnie" Parker
Son: Allen Wayne Bass
Granddaughter: Tracie Delana Harris
Sister: Katie Mae White Lindsay Rich
Submitted by Winnette Stinson

MRS. CLYDE KELLY BELCHER
Cairo Messenger, March 14, 1975

Mrs. Clyde Kelly Belcher Dies in Birmingham
Mrs. Clyde Kelly Belcher formerly of this county and a daughter of the late D. W. and Ella Gee Kelly, died Thursday, March 6, 1975 in Birmingham, Ala.
Funeral services were conducted Saturday afternoon in the Grace Episcopal Church by Father South and interment followed in Forest Hills Cemetery in Birmingham.
Mrs. Belcher was a member of the Whigham Methodist Church, the Victoria Rebecca Lodge No. 32, the Veteran's Auxiliary and the U.D.C. Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Gladys Norman of Birmingham, two grandsons, Raymond L. Norman of Merrit Island, Fla. and James C. Belcher of Miami and two great grandsons; two brothers, Claude F. Kelly of Whigham, Ga. and Donald G. Kelly of Pelham, Ga.; four sisters, Mrs. W. F. Lawrence, Camilla Ga., Mrs. J. T. Stephens, Calvary, Ga., and Mrs Ruth Kelly and Mrs. B. H. Belcher both of Whigham, Ga. and a number of nieces and nephews.
Submitted by Janet Sumner
SAMUEL A. BELCHER
The Cairo Messenger, April 6, 1956

Death Claims S. A. Belcher, Sr.
Veteran Missionary is Laid At Rest Here Friday
A final tribute was paid here on Friday afternoon to the Rev. Samuel A. Belcher, 79, one of the most distinguished and most beloved religious leaders ever from this area, who served 30 years as a Methodist missionary to Brazil, S. A.
Death occurred on Wednesday of last week, March 28, at Arlington, VA, where he had made his home for some time with a daughter. He had been ill about four weeks but was in feeble health for some two years.
The remains arrived here and the funeral was held at the First Methodist Church at 4 p.m. last Friday. Burial followed in Cairo Cemetery. Reverend E. Williams was in charge of the service with For-- Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. Pallbears were Francis Allen, J. D. Belcher, --- Brinson, Aris Mixon, W. E. Vanlandingham and Elmer Wilcox.
Rev. Mr. Belcher was born October, 1876, in what was known for many years as the Belcher settlement just a few miles north of Cairo, in Decatur County, now Grady. He was the son of the late Abram Burke and Adoline Tobitha Pearce Belcher. In early manhood, he married the former Miss Goldie Mae Sasser, also a member of a pioneer family in this section, who preceded him in death February 14, 1948, with burial in Cairo cemetery.
It was also in early manhood that he yielded to the call to spread the Christian gospel and entered the South Georgia Methodist Conference. After preparation for the foreign mission fields, he was assigned to Brazil as a Methodist missionary in 1907, serving there continuously, except for home leaves, until his retirement in 1937. His notable career and fruitful ministry in South America brought many people there to accept the Christian way of life and he was specially recognized by his church for his outstanding service.
Upon his return and retirement, he continued to serve his church on special assignments in this area and elsewhere, but he had lived in complete retirement for some years. Not only a devout Christian, he was a kind-mannered man who actually devoted his life to the welfare of other people in a spirit of altruism that commended itself strongly to all who were privileged to share the radiance of his personality.
Immediate survivors include a son, Samuel A. Belcher, Jr., Anderson, S. C.; two daughters, Mrs. Paula Murray, Arlington, Va. and Mrs. Edith Kelly, Park Ridge, Ill; and a brother, Dr. David P. Belcher, Pelham. There is also a large family connection, otherewise in this section.
Sumitted by Janet Sumner

DOCK B. BOUTWELL
The Cairo Messenger, Friday, September 16, 1955

Dock B. Boutwell, 66
Funeral services for Dock B. Boutwell, 66, Grady County farmer who resided about one mile outside the city limits on the Ochlocknee Highway, were held in the Meigs Baptist Church, Wednesday 11 a.m. Rev. J. W. Franklin, assisted by Rev. T. M. Underwood, Jr., officiated. Interment followed in the Meigs Cemetery, the active pallbearers being Leo Harris, Ellis Harris, Earl Pyles, Wright Pyles, Roy Pyles, and Ralph Boutwell. The deceased had resided in Grady County for the past 25 years or longer, and had always been engaged in farming.
The deceased was found lying on the floor at the back door of his home by his wife between 3:30 and 4:00 p.m., upon her return from Cairo where she had gone to purchase groceries. She immediately gave the alarm and her nearest neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison Edenfield, who live across the road, hearing her outcry rushed to the scene. It is understood that he breathed two or three times before he passed away. Sheriff Strickland and Dr. C. K. Singleton were immediately notified and rushed to the scene.
After an investigation by Coroner Bearden and Sheriff Strickland, and an examination by Dr. Singleton, who decided that the cause of Boutwell's death was due to a heart attack, no inquest was held.
The deceased is survived by his wife, the former Miss Jennie Tilley; two sons, Willie, of Meigs and Eston, of Pelham; two daughters, Mrs. Irene Dollar, Meigs; and Mrs. Leroy Burke, of Joohntown, N. Y., by a former marriage; two brothers, Berry Boutwell, Pavo, and Charley Boutwell, Ochlocknee; four sisters, Mrs. F. M. Brumbley, Quincy, Fla., Mrs. Elmo Harris, this county (Grady), Mrs. Emory Hancock and Mrs. Lissia Mathis, both of Cairo.
Braswell Funeral Home, of Pelham, was in charge of funeral arrangements.
Submitted by Janet Sumner

ALVIN BRINSON
The Cairo Messenger, February 3, 1978

Services Held For Mr. Alvin Brinson in Moultrie
Services for Alvin Brinson, 53, were held Thursday, January 26, at Calvary Baptist Church with interment in Westview Cemetery. The Rev. Floyd Porter officiated.
Mr. Brinson, a resident of 320 9th Street SW, died Tuesday in Colquitt County Memorial Hospital in Moultrie, following an illness of several months.
Pallbearers were Wayne Strange, Gene Lashley, Billy Welch, Lexie Moncrief, Cecil, Alvin, Hubert Griffin, David Moncrief and Bennie Alderman. Deacons of Calvary Baptist Church, the Lawrence Gay Sunday School Class and the Dorcas Bible Class served as honorary escort. Mr. Brinson was a native of Grady County, born Mar. 24, 1924, the son of the late Ralph H. Brinson and the late Mrs. Catherine Key Brinson. He had lived in Colquitt County for 25 years.
He was an employee of Peachtree Housing and a member of Calvary Baptist Church.
Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Edna Carnes Brinson, three sons, Stephen Brinson, Mark Brinson, and Philip Brinson, all of Moultrie; four brothers, Gaines Brinson, Stion Brinson, Calvin Brinson, and Herman Brinson, all of Cairo; and five sisters, Mrs. James Donaldson, Mrs. Edna Akridge, Mrs. Katie Chason, Mrs. Emory Houston, and Miss Ethell Brinson, all of Cairo.
Submitted by Janet Sumner

CHARLIE BRINSON
The Cairo Messenger, January 26, 1973

Mr. Charlie Brinson Dies After A Lengthy Illness
Mr. Charlie Brinson passed away January 21, 1973 in the Tallahassee Memorial Hospital after a lengthy illness.
Funeral services were held January 23, at the Clark Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jack Hughen officiating. Active pallbearers were Henry Andrews, Jerry McCorkle, Rodney Hickey, Donald Brinson, Lester Brinson and Leroy Eddenfield. Interment was in Woodlawn Cemetery in Whigham.
Mr. Brinson was born December 10, 1884 in Grady County to the late Dan and Liza Hornsby Brinson. He was married to the former Missie Humphries who passed away December 1945. He was a member of the Union Springs Baptist Church.
Surviving are three sons, D. W. Brinson of Cairo; Gene Brinson of Popano Beach, Fla.; Alfred Brinson of Hollywood, Fla.; two daughters, Mrs. Virginia McKown of Tallahassee, and Miss Marjorie Brinson of Tallahassee; 18 grandchildren, and 19 great grandchildren. Clark Funeral Home of Cairo was in charge of arrangements.
Submitted by Janet Sumner

JOHN W. BRINSON
The Cairo Messenger, May 13, 1977

John W. Brinson, Sr. Died Unexpectedly in Lake Park, Fla.
John W. Brinson, Sr., formerly of Cairo, died unexpectedly on April 22, 1977. Final rites for Mr. Brinson were held April 6, 1977, at 1:00 p.m. at Hamm and Price Funeral Home in North Palm Beach, Florida.
Mr. Brinson was born on February 14, 1928, to Roscoe E. and Beulah Norton Brinson of Grady County. He was later married to Susie Shick from New York.
Survivors of Mr. Brinson include his wife; four daughters, Susan Herbert of Lake Park, Judy Blessing and Debbie Webb of Jupiter, Diane Classman of Sarasota, two sons, John W. Brinson, Jr. of Sacramento, California and Scott Brinson of Lake Park. He is also survived by two sisters, Mrs. Louise B. Dozier and Mrs. Cassie Harper of Cairo; two brothers, George P. Brinson of Quincy and Emory E. Brinson of Forrestville, Maryland.
Those relatives attending the funeral rites from Cairo were, Mr. and Mrs. Theo Dozier, Mrs. Cassie Harper, Mrs. Cleo Ponder, Mr. Lane Dozier, and Mr. and Mrs. Lee Woodell and Matt.
Submitted by Janet Sumner

LEON A. BRINSON
The Cairo Messenger January 12, 1973

Mr. Leon A. Brinson, Former Whigham Man Dies Suddenly
Mr. Leon A. Brinson, 48, of Hialeah, Florida, formerly of Whigham passed away suddenly.
Funeral services were held January 5, 1973 at the Magnolia Baptist Church with Rev. Alfred Hinton officiating. Active pallbearers wre Jim Williams, Marvin Eckels, Lary Rickels, Clyde J. Moore, Oley Fewell, and Clyde Daniels. Interment was in Cedar Grove Cemetery.
Mr. Brinson was born in Whigham on May 3, 1924 to Mrs. D. A. Brinson and the late Mr. Brinson. He had been a truck driver for Holsum Bakery Company for 16 years.
Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Nadine Fewell Brinson; his mother, Mrs. D. A. Brinson of Whigham; four brothers, Melton Brinson of Whigham, Fred Brinson of Valdosta, Ga., Ralph Brinson of Titusville, Fla., and Lester Brinson of Tallahassee, Fla.; five sisters, Miss Susie Maude Brinson of Whigham, Mrs. Lillian Persons of Whigham, Mrs. James E. Williams of Albany, Mrs. Marvin Rickels of Hialeah, Fla., and Mrs. Clyde J. Moore of Climax, Ga.
Ivey Funeral Home of Bainbridge was in charge of arrangements.
Submitted by Janet Sumner

LEONA N. BRINSON
The Cairo Messenger, April 22, 1977

Mrs. Leona N. Brinson of Whigham, Passes At The Age of 90
The funeral service of Mrs. Leona N. Brinson, 90, of Whigham, who died Wednesday, April 13, was conducted Friday, April 15 at 2 p.m. at Trinity Primitive Baptist Church. Interment followed in the church cemetery.
Pallbearers were grandsons of Mrs. Brinson, namely, Kermitt Brinson, Whigham, Douglas Brinson, Hialiah, Fla., Danny Brinson, Titusville, Fla., James Moore, Biloxi, Mississippi, Randal Moore, Climax, Ga. and Larry Rickels, Hialeah, Fla. Honorary pallbearers were Deacons of Trinity Primitive Baptist Church.
Mrs. Brinson was a lifelong resident of Grady County being born to the late Mr. and Mrs. N. M. NeSmith of Grady County and later married to Daniel Augustus Brinson, April 9, 1903.
Survivors include her children, N. M. (Melton) Brinson, Miss Susie Maude Brinson, Mrs. Lillian Persons, of Whigham, Mr. Fred Brinson, Statonville, Ga., Mr. Lester Brinson, Tallahassee, Fla., Mrs. Marvin L. (Elise) Rickels, Hialeah, Fla., Mrs. Clyde (Eldie) Moore, Climax, Ga., and Mrs. James E. (Sara) Williams, Albany, Ga., 18 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. Clark Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Submitted by Janet Sumner

MARY ALICE BRINSON
The Cairo Messenger, September 12, 1975

Death Claims Mrs. Mary Alice Brinson on September 6th
Mrs. Mary Alice Brinson, wife of Gene Brinson, of North Lauderdale, Fla. passed away on Sept. 6 after an illness of nine months.
Funeral services were held Sept. 10 at Clark Chapel in Cairo with Rev. Alfred Hinton and Rev. Millard Cutchins officiating. Active pallbearers were Jerry McCorkle, Henry Andrews, Earl Stuckey, Wayne Stuckey, Eddie Stuckey, and Bobby Stuckey. Interment was in Woodlawn Cemetery. Mrs. Brinson was born on April 25, 1918 to Paul J. and Eula McConnell Stuckey of Whigham, Ga. She married Gene Brinson in 1948 who survives. Mrs. Brinson lived the past 27 years in North Lauderdale, Fla. She was a member of Magnolia Baptist Church.
Survivors include her husband, Gene Brinson of North Lauderdale, Fla.; 1 son, Carlton Sellers of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; 4 daughters, Mrs. Elizabeth James of Hollywood, Fla., Mrs. Janice Lee Hilbert of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; Mrs. Karen Nizar of Ft. Myers, Fla.; Miss Marsha Jean Brinson of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; 9 grandchildren; 3 brothers, J. W. Stuckey, Robert Stuckey both of Whigham; Eugene Stuckey of Miami, Fla.; 2 sisters, Mrs. Mae Montgomery of Glade Water, Texas and Mrs. Lois Fincannon of Whigham, Ga.
Arrangements by Clark Funeral Home of Cairo.
Submitted by Janet Sumner

SARAH BRINSON
The Cairo Messenger, July 27, 1973

Final Rites For Mrs. Sarah Thelma Brock Brinson Held
Mrs. Sarah Thelma Brock Brinson passed away July 19, 1973 in Georgia Baptist Hospital, Atlanta, Georgia.
Funeral services wre held Saturday, July 21, 1973 at Trinity Primitive Baptist Church with Elder O. V. Marshall officiating assisted by Elder C. W. Todd. Active pallbearers were J. W. Brock, Lavon Tomlinson, John Brock, Lamar Brock, Leon Brock, and James Tomlinson. Interment was in Trinity Cemetery.
Mrs. Brinson was born September 5, 1908 in Grady County to the late John and Maggie Williams Brock. She was married to Mr. Fred Brinson who survives. They had lived in Valdosta for the past 15 years, moving there from Grady County. She was a member of the Salem Primitive Baptist Church.
Surviving besides here husband are one daughter, Mrs. Merlene Mears of East Machian, Maine; one son, Douglas Brinson of Hialeah, Fla.; one brother, Louis B. Brock of Lakeland, Fla.; four sisters, Mrs. Wesley Baggett, Mrs. Hiram White, both of Cairo, Mrs. Jimmy Tomlinson of Bainbridge, Mrs. Norwood Bishop of Climax; four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Clark Funeral home of Cairo was in charge of arrangements.
Submitted by Janet Sumner

CARL BROCK
The Cairo Messenger, November 10, 1978

Final Rites Are Held For Mr. Carl Brock On November 4th
Mr. Carl Brock passed away on Wednesday, November 1, 1978 at his residence of Route 4, Bainbridge, Georgia after an illness of several months.
Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 4, 1978 at 3 p.m. at the Prosperity Primitive Baptist Church of Bainbridge, Georgia with the Rev. Hersel Walker and Elder Earl J. Childs officiating, interment was in the Prosperity Cemetery. Active pallbearers were all male members of the Flint River Association of Primitive Baptists.
Mr. Brock was born in Decatur County, Georgia on April 22, 1887. He was married to Rene Oliver Brock who preceded him in death. He had lived his entire life in Decatur County, was a retired farmer, a charter member and the first President of Decatur County Farm Bureau, a charter member of the Decatur County Production Credit Association, he served on the Decatur County Board of Tax Assessors for a number of years, was Justice of Peace for the Belcher Precinct for 32 years, at Trustee of the former Mt. Pleasant Public School system and a member of the Prosperity Primitive Baptist Church.
Survivors include five daughters, Mrs. Wilma Kelly of Bainbridge, Ga., Mrs. Veronica Gainey of Climax, Ga., Mrs. Ronellel Ballantine of West Palm Beach, Fla., Mrs. Elaine Phillips of Jonesboro, Ga., and Mrs. Carlene Andreu of Miami, Fla.; five sons, Clayton O. Brock of Bainbridge, Lawrence D. Brock of Seattle, Washington, Wallace W. Brock of Chapin, SC, James A. Brock of Plant City, Fla., and Eldon D. Brock of Bainbridge, Ga.; one sister, Mrs. Ella Ree Sweeting of West Palm Beach, Fla.; forty-seven grandchildren and fifty-three great grandchildren.
Cox Funeral Home of Bainbridge Georgia was in charge of arrangements.
Submitted by Janet Sumner

RUTH BROCK
The Cairo Messenger, January 24, 1975

Mrs. Ruth Brock Passes Away On January 16th, 1975
Mrs. Ruth Brock, wife of the late John Byron Brock, of Bainbridge, Ga. passed away Jan. 16, 1975 at Bainbridge Memorial Hospital.
Funeral services were held Jan. 16, 1975 at the Trinity Primitive Baptist Church with Rev. Jack Clark and Rev. Richard Harkins officiating. Active pallbearers were Bill Mobley, Tommy Mobley, John Brock, James Tomlinson, Lavon Tomlinson and Wynburn Womble. Interment was in Trinity Church Cemetery.
Mrs. Brock was born in Sale City, Ga. on May 22, 1904. She lived in Bainbridge for the past 1 1/2 years and was a member of the West Bainbridge Baptist Church.
Survivors include 2 daughters, Mrs. Ruby Perkins of Bainbridge, Mrs. Letha Bell Golden of Thomasville; 2 sons, J. W. Brock of Cairo, Lamar Brock of Albany; 15 grandchildren and 9 great grandhildren; 6 sisters, Mrs. Rosa Lee Istenes of Fort Myers, Fla., Mrs. Annie Womble, Mrs. Nellie Mobley, both of Thomasville, Mrs. Mera Finch of Thomasville, Mrs. Veda Anderson of Fayetteville, N.Y., Mrs. Jewell Maxwell of Baton Route, La.; 2 brothers, T. M. Hancock of Birmingham, Ala., J. E. Hancock of Jacksonville, Fla.
Cox Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Submitted by Janet Sumner

MOSDEN L. BROCK
The Cairo Messenger, Obituary of Mosden L. Brock, January 9, 2002

April 15, 1923 - Jan. 4, 2002
Mr. Mosden L. Brock, 78, of Whigham, Ga., passed away at Archbold Memorial Hospital, Thomasville, Ga., on Friday, Jan, 4, 2002. Mr. Brock was born in Climax, Ga., April 15, 1923, to the late Walter Levi and Juanita Sharber Brock. Mr. Brock was retired from Sales and Management with Armour Foods. He was of the Protestant faith and served in World War ii with the U.S. Air Force.
Services were at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 7, 2002, at Clark Funeral Home Chapel, Cairo, with the Rev. Charles Whatley officiating. Interment followed at Woodlawn Cemetery, Whigham.
Survivors include a son, John M. Brock, Atlanta, Ga.; daughters and sons-in-law, Linda and Jack Martin, Lilburn, Ga., and Beverly Ann and Mike Huffer, Ft. Myers, Fla.; sisters, Virginia Massey, Bronwood, Ga., and Doris Arline, Augusta, Ga.; brothers, Edsel Brock, Whigham, Leonard Brock and Lynwood Brock, both of Ft. Worth, Texas; and grandchildren, Jason Huffer, Indianapolis, In., Laura Huffer, Cincinnati, Ohio and Chris Martin, Lilburn.
Clark Funeral Home of Cairo was in charge of arrangements.
Submitted by Janet Sumner

July 19, 1912
MR. T. W. BROWN ANSWERS ROLL CALL

Last Friday morning about one o'clock Mr. T. W. Brown, one of Cairo's oldest citizens, died at his home in Cairo. Mr. Brown was born in North Carolina and moved to Florida when quite a young man, and from there he went to Whigham, GA, about thirty years ago, and from Whigham he moved to his place, where he has since resided. He was one of those beloved old Confederate Veterans who are passing away, it seems, all too fast. He served the cause grandly and nobly and made a brave soldier, like he lived; a good Christian gentleman, loved and honored by all. Mr. Brown was a member of the Methodist church and also a good Mason. he had always been a remarkably healthy man up to about three months ago, when he had a stroke of paralysis and it seemed he had so far recovered from this affliction as to be able to get about, with some difficulty, however, and his friends had hopes of his sufficient recovery to remain with them for some time to come, little thinking that the grim reaper was so soon to call him. In his demise a devoted wife and nine loving children, five sons and four daughter, are left to mourn his loss. He was in his 85th year and had he lived until January 5th, 1913, he would have reached the 85th mile post of life. The funeral services were conducted by his Pastor, Rev. W. L. Wright, assisted by Rev. W. C. Jones and Rev. B. D. Ragsdale. The interment was in the Cairo cemetery last Saturday morning, surrounded by the family and a large circle of loving relatives and friends. The Messenger extends condolence to the sorrowing family, knowing that it is well with "Uncle Tom," as he was so lovingly called by almost every one. After the many battles of life he has "passed over the river and rests' in the sheltering arms of his Saviour. May He who doeth all things well bind the bruised and bleeding hearts of thise sorrowing ones, as he alone can.
*Not related to me personally *Submitted by Christine M. Burton

IRVIN BRYANT
Cairo Messenger, October 26, 1973

Mr. Irvin Bryant Claimed By Dean On October 22nd
Mr. Irvin Bryant, 81, passed away on Monday, October 22, 1973 at Grady General Hospital.
Funeral services were held October 24, 1973 at Clark Chapel with Rev. Roy Thomas, Rev. O. B. Hughes and Rev. James Smith officiating. Active pallbearers were Billy Davis, A. R. Green, Sonny Marshall, Alfonzo Harrell, James Bryant, and Edgar Stringer. Honorary pallbearers were Curley McCant, Dr. C. K. Singleton, Willard Chason, Roderick Hester, Henry Mc Crea, Dan Ward, Loyie Mathis, George Mathis, Clarence Crew, James Lane, Jesse Crew, Bobby Bearden, Fred Stringer and Preston Ward. Interment was in Pine Park Cemetery.
Mr. Bryant was born December 19, 1891 in Berrien County to the late Bartum Bryant and Amanda Patten Bryant. He was married to the former Amanda Foy Singletary who survives. Mr. Bryant was a lifetime resident of this area and a member of Pine Park Baptist Church.
Survivors are his wife, Mrs. Irvin Bryant of Cairo; five sons: Ralph E. Bryant, George A. Bryant, both of Pine Park, Carey C. Bryant of Camilla, Irvin Bryant, Jr. of Moultrie, Travis Bryant of Pine Park; two daughters , Mrs. Nell Bryant Horne of Tallahassee, Fla., Mrs. Jeanette Bryant Hart of Perry, Fla.; 20 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren; two sisters: Miss Minerva Bryant of Jacksonville, Fla., Mrs. Arabelle Stringer of Cairo, Ga.; two brothers: Mr. Jim Bryant of Lake Talquin, Fla. and Mr. Gordon Bryant of Thomasville, Ga.
Clark Funeral Home of Cairo was in charge of arrangements
Submitted by Janet Sumner

ELANOR CASSELS
The Cairo Messenger Jan 16, 2002

Eleanor Cassels
March, 23 1921 - Jan. 7, 2002
Mrs. Eleanor Allen Cassels, 80, passed away Monday,Jan. 7, 2002, at her home in Stockbridge, GA.
Mrs. Cassels was born in Grady County, GA to the late Robert Eugene and Evelyn Williams Allen. She was married to Oscar Byron Cassels Jr., who preceded her in death on April 11, 1993. Mrs. Cassels was a member of the Stockbridge United Methodist Church.
Services were held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 11, 2002, graveside at the Cairo Cemetery with the Rev. Richard Soper officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hospice of Atlanta, 1244 Park Vista Drive, N.E., Atlanta, GA 30319.
Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Robert B. and Ellie Cassels, Goleta, California; daughters and sons-in-law, Nancy and Bill Perkins, Dawsonville, Ga., Lou Anne Cassels, Decatur, Ga., and FLorence and Todd Kosloski, Hapeville, Ga.; grandchildren, Elise Perkins and Williams Perkins, both of Dawsonville, and Joshua and Trevor Kosloski, both of Hapeville; a brother, Frances E. Allen, Cairo GA., sisters, Katheryn Davis, Cairo, Virginia Allen, Cairo, and Martha Brock, Whigham, Ga.; and several nieces and nephews.
Clark Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Submitted by Janet Sumner

From the Cairo Messenger October 5, 1917
MR AUDREY CHASON PASSED AWAY LAST SUNDAY

Mr. Audrey Chason, of Doerun, GA, who was operated upon at Dr. Walker's Sanitarium last Saturday, passed away early Sunday morn-ing. He had been sick for only a few days, yet he had allowed this disease to get too far advanced on him before he consulted a physician. Mr. Chason was about 25 years of age and was a member the Baptist church. The funeral services were held at Pine Level church, north of town, last Monday afternoon, being attended by a large concourse of sorrowing relatives and friends. The last sad rites were conducted by Rev. J. P. Swann. Mr. Chason is survived by his father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Chason of this county, his wife, two children and several brothers and sisters, besides numerous relatives and friends. The Messenger extends condolence to the bereaved ones in their hour of sadness.
* I looked the date up in a 20th Century Ephemeris. Last Sunday would have been 30 Sep. 1917.
*Submitted by Christine M. Burton

December 15, 1905
HUB. CHASON BURNS TO DEATH

Mr. Herbert Chason, a prosperous young farmer in this county, residing a few miles west of Ochlocknee, came to a horrible death on last Tuesday. Coming to Cairo on Monday previous, and thinking that he would probably be late returning that night, he advised his wife that she and the little child shoud go to a neighbor's home to spend the night, which they did. Returning late Monday night Mr. Chason built a large fire as it was rather cool, and this had not burned down when he retired. Several hours later he awoke to find his house on fire and the flames had even reached the bed on which he was resting. He undertook to escape but being upstairs, he found it impossible to pass out without sustaining serious burns, from which he died about 9 o'clock the following morning. He has a great many relatvies together with friends throught the county, who will receive the news of his death sadly.
* This is Walter Herbert Chason, son of Joseph Melton Chason, Sr. and Martha Elizabeth Johnston. He is buried in Pierce's Chapel Cemetery. He dies on 12 Dec. 1905.
*Submitted by Christine M. Burton

August 2, 1912
DEATH OF MRS. CHASON

The friends of Mrs. John P. Chason are pained to learn of her death which occured at her home three miles south of Ochlocknee, last Monday morning at four o'clock. Mrs. Chason had only been sick for a couple of weeks with typhoid fever when her strength failed her and she passed from this to the eternal life. Mrs. Chason was well known in and around our city, having resided in south Grady until a few years ago, when the family moved to the northern part of the county near Ochlocknee. The deceased was fifty five years of age , and has for a number of years been a faithful and consistent member of the Baptist church. She leaves a husband and several children to mourn her loss. The funeral occured Tuesday morning at eleven o'clock, being conducted by Rev. W. H. Godwin, interment at Ochlocknee cemetery.
Contributor's note: Mrs. Chason was the Elizabeth Jane Williams. She died on July 29, 1912
*Submitted by Christine M. Burton

September 23, 1927
MRS JOE CHASON DIES AFTER HEART ATTACK

Mrs. Martha Elizabeth Chason, an aged and beloved resident of Cairo, and widow of the late lamented Mr. Joe Chason, well known citizen of the county, passed away suddenly about one o/clock Wednesday morning, following what physicians diagnosed as a heart attack. She was living with her son, Mr. C. W. Chason, and family here, and members of the family, hearing a noise in her room, rushed to her only to find her body crumpled on the floor. She evidently made an effort to get out of bed and probably died from the heart attack while she was in the act. She was 83 years of age, although she had been comparatively active, even during the day before she died. She was a native of Alabama, being the daughter of the late Mr. nd Mrs. Wiley Johnston, but she had been a resident of Grady county for the greater part of her life. He life was a manifestation of the simple Christian faith and she was highly regarded by all who knew her. She was a devout believer in the Primitive Baptist principles and was ever loyal to the doctrines of her church. As a mother and home-maker, she was especially diligent to do what she could to make the home life attractive for her children. Funeral and interment were at Pierce Chapel, about five miles east of Cairo, Thursday morning, with Elder Gardner of Mitchell county, in charge. A large number of sorrowing relatives and friends were present. Surviving are four sons and three daughters, besides other relatives.
* Martha Elizabeth Johnston Harden Chason died on 21 September 1927. She was one of my maternal g-grandmothers.
*Submitted by Christine M. Burton

VERSIE WHITE CHASON

CAIRO - Funeral Services for Versie White Chason, age 86, of Route 1, Cairo, will be conducted at 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 16, 1984, at the chapel of Miller Funeral Home. The Revs. Douglas Halstead and William Brown will officiate, with interment to follow in Greenwood Cemetery. Mrs. Chason died at her home Monday, May 14, 1984, of an apparent heart attack. She was a lifetime Grady County resident, born Dec. 6, 1887, a daughter of Edward and Flora Cox White. She was a housewife and member of Bold Springs Methodist Church. On Feb. 15, 1917, she married Ivy G. Chason, who died June 13, 1981. Survivors include two sons, Daniel Wayman Chason, Cairo and Winfred Edward Chason, Albany; four granddaughters, Mrs. Dale(Judy) Lisher, Pierce, Idaho, Mrs. Leverne (Lucretia) Whigham and Mrs. Forrest (Elaine) Harrison, Cairo, and Mrs. Jeff (Sara) Elkins, Castleberry, Fla.; two sisters, Mrs. Dewey (Edna) Butler, Dunnellon, Fla,. and Mrs. William (Missie) Oliver, Cairo; and nine great-grandchildren. The family will receive friends at the funeral home tonight from 7 to 9.

As published by the Thomasville Times Enterprise.
*Submitted by Winnette Stinson
MAGGIE COLLINS
b. 1-10-1896 d. 5-29-1929

Miss Maggie Collins, 33 years of age, a member of Grady County�s largest and best-known families, met a tragic death about four o�clock Wednesday afternoon as a victim of a bite by a large rattlesnake, which she suffered shortly before two o�clock Tuesday afternoon while picking blackberries a short distance form the Collins home, near Whigham. |Immediately after she was bitten, she tied a cord around her leg about the wound in an effort to check the spread of the poison from the reptiles� fangs and Whigham, Cairo and Bainbridge physicians responded so promptly that she was administered the antivenin treatment about forty minutes after she was bitten, but despite the determined fight that was made for her life by the physicians throughout Tuesday night and Wednesday she succumbed to the effects of the poison late Wednesday afternoon, after suffering indescribable agony. So quick was the spread of the poison throughout her system that all of the treatment was hardly effective enough to afford relief even. Miss Collins was an unusually popular young lady and her untimely passing brought widespread sorrow. She is survived by two sisters, Miss Mary Collins and Mrs. Prassie Harrison; and seven brothers, Dr. G. W., J.H., Tom, J.J., C. C., Malvin, and Albert Collins. Funeral services were held at the Magnolia Baptist Church, near Whigham, of which she was loyal member at 3:30 o�clock, Thursday afternoon, in charge of Rev. J.P. Swann, of Cairo and interment followed in the Magnolia Cemetery.
*Submitted by Hilda Lockhart

MR. HENRY COLLINS IS A VICTIM OF APOPLEXY
b. 1-13-1855 d. 9-14-1924

Mr. Henry E. Collins, a prominent citizen, who resided near Whigham passed away last Sunday morning at four o�clock, a victim of apoplexy. He was seventy years of age and the large number who attended his funeral which was held at Magnolia Tuesday morning attests the high esteem in which he was held by the people who knew him. He was an honorable and upright Christian gentleman, a member of the Baptist Church. Rev. D. P. Lee, pastor of the Cairo Baptist Church, Rev. J. P. Swann and Rev. N.G. Christopher of Whigham officiated at the funeral services. Surviving are several members of the immediate family and a number of other relatives.
Note: Henry Eli Collins was married to Mary Anne Harvell Collins b 1855 d. 1892 Nancy Ferdoria Harvell Collins b. 1-13-1860 d. 10-29-1932
*Submitted by Hilda Lockhart

GEORGE W. COLLINS
b. 3-1-1881 d. 8-17-1938

The people of Whigham and the surrounding community were sadly shocked by the death of Dr. George William Collins, 57, a well-known Whigham dental surgeon, early Wednesday morning. Death came about 2:20 o�clock at the residence of Dr. W. M. Dykes, in Whigham, whence Dr. Collins had gone a short time before for treatment, following a heart attack. Dr. Collins had practiced dentistry in Whigham for more than 30 years and was one of the community�s most beloved citizens. He was born 47 years ago last March 1st, about four miles south of Whigham, a son of the late Mr. And Mrs. Henry Collins. Because of his long experience, he was regarded as an expert in his profession. He was a member of the Whigham Baptist Church and the Whigham Masonic Lodge. Fishing and hunting were his hobbies and his love of nature was an outstanding characteristic. Funeral and interment were at Magnolia church and cemetery Thursday afternoon at 3 o�clock, in charge of his pastor, Rev. N. G. Christopher, and the South Georgia Funeral Home. Surviving are one sister, Miss Mary Emma Collins, Whigham; and six brothers, J.H., J.J., Tom, C.C., Malvin and Albert Collins, all of near Whigham.
*Submitted by Hilda Lockhart
JOHN HENRY COLLINS
b. 5-11-1882 d. 12-13-1957

Funeral services for John Henry Collins, 75, who died December 13 following an illness of ten days after being in failing health for several years, were held at Magnolia Baptist Church at 3 p.m. December 15. Services were in charge of the Rev. A. C. Scoggins, The Rev. Frank Baker and the Rev. Millard Cutchens. Burial followed in the Magnolia Cemetery. Eight nephews of the deceased served as pallbearers. They were Fred Collins, Paul Hand, Malvin Collins, Jr., Calton Harrison, Lenwood Collins, Mark Collins, Willard Vickers, and Murry Harrell. Mr. Collins was born May 11, 1882 in Decatur County, (now Grady) the son of the late Henry E. and Mary Anne Harvell Collins. He was married to the former Miss Mamie Belle Harrell, who survives, on June 19, 1904. He was a farmer by profession and had lived all his life in this county. Mr. Collins was the oldest male member of the Magnolia Baptist Church, having joined in August, 1904. During the years he was active in all the programs of the church, having served as song leader for many years until his health began to fail. He was an understanding Christian leader, a devoted husband and father and will be missed by his many friends. Mr. Collins was a member of the Whigham Masonic Lodge No. 356 and during his Masonic career, he has served in every office of the lodge. Others survivors besides his wife are four sons, Woodrow Collins, York, PA., Douglas Collins, Batesburg, S.C., Edward Collins, Batesburg, SC and O. Aaron Collins, Cairo; three daughters, Mrs. C. E. Harrington, Starke, Fla., Mrs. Elbert Jones, Atlanta, Mrs. Raymond Boyett, Whigham; two brothers, Albert Collins and C.C. Collins both of Whigham. He is survived by 22 grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Forsyth Funeral Home of Cairo was in charge of arrangements.
*Submitted by Hilda Lockhart

MAMIE BELLE COLLINS
b. 4-3-1885 d. 11-27-1962

Mrs. Mamie Belle Collins, wife of the late John Henry Collins of Whigham, died at 1 pm November 27 in Batesburg, SC following a long illness, and funeral services were held at her church in Grady County, Magnolia Baptist, on Nov. 29 at 3 pm. Rev Cleveland Scoggins and Rev. Lee Long officiated at the ceremony. Burial followed in the Magnolia Cemetery. Pallbearers were her grandsons, Henry Boyette, Larry, Bernie, Danny, and Sammy Collins and Harrell Jones. Honorary pallbearers were the deacons of Magnolia Baptist Church. Mrs. Collins was born on April 3, 1885 in Decatur County, daughter of Oscar and Regina Clark Harrell. Mr. And Mrs. Collins were married in 1904 and they celebrated their golden wedding anniversary in 1954. Mr. Collins died in 1957, and is also buried in Magnolia Cemetery. Mrs. Collins was a member of Magnolia Church and had lived all her life in this county. Survivors include four sons, Aaron Collins, of Colquitt, GA., Woodrow Collins of York, PA, Edwin and Douglas Collins both of Batesburg, SC; three daughters, Mrs. Audnie Mae Griffis of Starke, Fla., Mrs. Willie Bell Jones of Atlanta and Mrs. Octavia Boyette of Whigham; one brother, Albert Harrell of Whigham; three sisters, Mrs. Hattie Duncan of Whigham, Mrs. Ethel Stephens of Bainbridge and Mrs. Mattie Miller of Bainbridge; 24 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.
*Submitted by Hilda Lockhart

MARY EMMA COLLINS
b. 7-18-1883 d. 10-12-1951

Miss Mary Emma Collins died at the home of her brother, Malvin Collins, near Whigham, at 2:50 am Friday, October 12, following an illness of about three months. The funeral service was held at Magnolia Baptist Church at 3 o�clock Saturday afternoon with the Revs. L.Z. Widner and N.G. Christopher officiating. Interment was in the Magnolia cemetery. Serving as pallbearers were Heyward Hand, Aubrey Hand, Judson Hand, Paul Hand, Frank Hand and Elmore Hand. The following were honorary pallbearers� Herbert Logue, Lonnie Johnson, Glenn Fewell, Grady Harrison, Louis Foster, W.K. Foster, Jay Walden and L.M. Dixon. The deceased was born in Grady County on July 18, 1883, the daughter of the late Henry Eli and Mary Anne Harvell Collins. Miss Collins was a member of the Magnolia Baptist Church and lived a devoted Christian life. She was faithful neighbor and friend. Surviving are four brothers, J.H. Collins, C.C. Collins, Albert Collins and Malvin Collins, all of Whigham, fifty-four nieces and nephews. Arrangements were handled by Forsyth-Bearden Funeral Home.
*Submitted by Hilda Lockhart

T.E. COLLINS (THOMAS EDWARD)
b. 4-15-1887 d. 11-11-1941

Mr. Thomas Edward Collins, 54 a native of this section died at his home, Route 2, Whigham at 11 a.m., Nov. 11th following an illness of ten days. Mr. Collins was the son of the late Mr. And Mrs. Henry E. Collins and spent his life in what is now Grady County, engaged as a farmer. He was a member of the Baptist Church. Funeral and interment were at Magnolia Church and cemetery, this county, at 2 pm, November 12th, with Rev. N. G. Christopher, Whigham and South Georgia Funeral Home in charge. Immediate survivors include his widow Mrs. Annie Trulock Collins, 5 children, Mrs. Bernice DeVane, Ft. Myers, Fla., Myrtice, Pauline, Valda, Joseph and Mark Collins, this county, five brothers, one sister and three grandchildren.
*Submitted by Hilda Lockhart
JESSE JAMES COLLINS
b. 12-17-1887 d. 11-28-1950

Mr. Jesse James Collins died suddenly at 4:30 pm Tuesday, November 28, in the Reynolds's offices here following a short illness of a minutes. The funeral service was held at Magnolia Baptist Church at 2:30 o'clock Thursday afternoon with the Revs. L.Z., Widner, Lee Long and N.G. Christopher conducting. Interment was in magnolia cemetery. Six nephews of the deceased served as pallbearers. Mr. Collins was born on December 17, 1887, in Decatur county, the son of the late Henry and Mary Anne Harvell Collins. Most of his life was spent in this county where he was engaged in farming. The deceased was a member of the Magnolia Baptist Church and lived a consistent Christian life. Surviving are his widow, the former Miss Lula Sasser, of Route 2, Whigham; four sons, Vernon and Fred Collins, Grady County, Henry E. Collins, Pritchard, Ala; Jack Collins, Grady County; five daughters, Mrs. Ercell Harrison, Whig ham; Mrs. Hazel Johnson, Albany, Mrs. Merle Moore, Columbus; Mrs. Index Moss, Atlanta; Miss Amy Collins, Grady County; four brothers, John Henry, Charles, Malvin and Albert Collins, all of Grady County; and eleven grandchildren.' Arrangements by Forsyth-Bearden Funeral Home.
*Submitted by Hilda Lockhart

LULA SASSER COLLINS
b. 3-28-1891 d. 11-16-1980

Mrs. Lula S. Collins passed away at Grady General Hospital, Sunday, November 16, 1980, after a lengthy illness. Services for Mrs. Collins were held Monday, November 17, 1980 at 3 pm with Rev. W.L. Parks and Rev. Leon VanLandingham officiating at Magnolia Baptist Church in Whigham. Interment followed at Magnolia Baptist Church Cemetery. The grandsons served as active pallbearers.\ Mrs. Collins was born March 28, 1891 in Decatur County, Ga. To the late George Washington and Frances Cornelis Brunson Sasser. In later years was married to Jesse James Collins, who preceded her in death November 28, 1950. She was a lifetime resident of Decatur and Grady County, a homemaker and a member of Magnolia Baptist Church in Whigham. Survivors include: two sons, Fred B. Collins, Whigham and Henry E. Collins, Lawrenceville, Ga.; four daughters, Mrs. Eugene Harrison, Whigham; Mrs. Merle Moore, Columbus, Ga., Mrs. Inez Moss, Ellenwood, Ga. And Mrs. James Prince, Cairo; one brother Melvin Sasser, Bainbridge, Ga., and 20 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Clark Funeral Home of Cairo was in charge of arrangements.
*Submitted by Hilda Lockhart
CHARLIE C. COLLINS
b. 12-16-1889 d. 4-28-1963

Mr. Charlie C. Collins, well known Whigham resident, and popular member of the Whigham City Council for many years died suddenly at his home on Monday at 73 years of age. Mr. Collins died at 8:15 am. Mr. Collins was a retired farmer, having moved to Whigham after retiring. He was serving his third term on the City Council. Funeral services were held at 3 pm Thursday at Magnolia Baptist Church where he was a member with Rev Cleveland Scoggins, Rev Bill Bozeman and Rev. S.J. Wheeler officiating. Burial was in the Magnolia Church Cemetery. Serving as active pallbearers were his nephews, Malvin Collins, Jr., Mark Collins, Fred Collins, Claton Harrison, Aaron Collins, Paul Hand, Willard Vickers and Zack Thomas. Honorary pallbearers were Lonnie Johnson, Glenn Fewell, Lowell Dixon, Grady Harrison, Onnie Rackley, Raymond Boyette, Compton Coker, Wendell Larkin, A.L. Fowler, Daryl Palmer, Neil Sherrod and J.M. Davis. Mr. Collins was born December 16, 1889, in Decatur County, now Grady, the son of the late Henry Eli and Mary Ann Harvell Collins. He was married to Miss Effie Thomas in Grady County on June 13, 1918. He had lived all his life in this county. Mr. Collins was also a member other American Legion Post 122. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Effie Collins, Three sons, Rodney Collins of Thomasville, Lynwood Collins, Jackson, Fla., and Floyd Collins, US Army; five daughters, Miss Jan Collins Whigham, GA., Mrs. Pierce Strickland, Cairo, Mrs. Millard Cutchens, of Walthourville, Ga., Mrs. Melba Perkins, Orlando, Fla., and Mrs. Charles R. Henderson, Decatur, Ga.; one brother Albert Collins, Whigham, Ga. And 18 grandchildren. Arrangements were in charge of Clark Funeral Home.
*Submitted by Hilda Lockhart
MALVIN COLLINS, SR.
b. 10-27-1897 d. 12-18-1952

The numerous friends and acquaintances of Mr. Melvin Collins, Sr., were grieved to learn of his passing away at him home a few miles couth of Whigham at one o'clock of the morning of Thursday, December 18, He had been ill for only a week. The funeral services were held last Sunday afternoon at three o'clock at the Magnolia Baptist Church, of which he had been a member for a number of years; he also had served as clerk of this church for several years. Rev. G.F. Childs and Rev. A. S. Rich conducted the last sad rites; interment in the Magnolia cemetery. Active pallbearers were Lowell Dixon, Aaron Logue, Herbert Logue, W. Grady Harrison, J.M. Walden and Harvey Harrison. Honorary pallbearers were L.H. Foster, Glen Fewell, W.H. Foster, Edwin Brock, Ben Wright and Robert Powell. The deceased was born October 27, 1897 in Decatur, now Grady County, the son of the late Henry E. and Nancy Harvell Collins. He was married to Miss Gertrude Jones on September 10, 1933. His life time occupation was farming, he having resided in the community all his life where he passed away. He was considered one of the county's most upright citizens, as well as being one of the community's outstanding and progressive farmers and buses men. In addition to his wife, Mrs. Malvin Collins, Sr. he is survived by five sons, Malvin Collins, Jr., US Army, Manuel, Wyane, Kenneth, and Carlton Collins four daughters, Frankie Jane, Nancy, Virginia and Brenda Sue Collins; three brothers, John Henry, Charles, and Albert Collins. All of these reside in Grady County, three miles south of Whigham, in the Collins Community.
*Submitted by Hilda Lockhart
ALBERT COLLINS
b. 9-1-1899 d. 11-6-1970

Albert Collins, 71, of Route 2 Whigham, a prominent leader who had one of the largest family connections of anyone in Grady County, passed to his reward on last Friday, November 6, at 635 pm at Archbold Memorial Hospital in Thomasville, after an illness of 20 days which followed a heart attack. His untimely passing was a sad shock to his countless relatives and friends,. Mr. Collins, was an extensively engaged in farming and had long been a stalwart in the Mongolia Baptist Church southwest of Whigham, was the last in an outstanding family of 11 children of the late Henry Eli and Nancy Harvell Collins, sturdy pioneers. He was born in what was then Decatur, now Grady County, on September 1, 1899, and spent his life in the Magnolia community , where he came to be widely recognized as one of this county's most substantial farmers. One June 30, 1926, he married the former Miss Emily Gillespie, who survives. In his Magnolia Baptist Church he became a leader in early manhood, and served many ears on the board of deacons, a position he held at the time of his passing. He also served the church as treasurer for 13 years and was always depended upon to help keep it active and progressive. In community and county affairs he was also forward-looking and cooperative-and his influence for good will be greatly missed. Funeral services were conducted at the Magnolia Baptist Church last Sunday, November 8, at 3pm and interment followed in the church cemetery. Revs. Aaron Collins, Alfred Hinton and Billy Majors officiated, with Clark Funeral Home, Cairo, in charge of arrangements. Active pallbearers were nephews; Floyd, Fred, Mark and Malvin, Jr. Collins, Paul Hand and Calton Harrison. The following deacons of the church formed an honorary escort; Raymond Boyette, Compton Coker, Glenn Fewell, Grady Harrison, Judson Hand, Lonnie Johnson and Onnie Rackley. Survivors, in addition to his wife, include two daughters: Mrs. Willard (Montine) Vickers and Mrs. Edwin (Doris) Poppell, both of Whigham; five grandchildren; Rev. Derrick Vickers, Hattisburg, Miss.; Darwin Vickers, Thomasville; Mrs. Jimmy Hogg, Reidsville, Ga.; Miss Demetrius Cutchens, Whigham and Miss Malynda Poppell, Whigham and two great-grand children.
*Submitted by Hilda Lockhart

RUTH COLLINS
Obituary of Ruth Collins Jan. 14, 1912-Dec. 21, 2001
The Cairo Messenger, Dec. 26, 2001

Mrs. Ruth Mills Collins, 89, passed away Friday, Dec. 21, 2001, at Grady General Hospital, Cairo, GA.
Mrs. Collins was born in Grady County, Ga., on Jan. 14, 1912, to the late James Walter and Mary Horton Mills. She was married to Edwin Samuel Collins, who preceded her in death in September, 1971. Mrs. Collins was a lifetime resident of Grady County. She was a dedicated homemaker and a member of the Cairo Church of God.
Services were held at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 23, 2001, at Cairo Church of God, Cairo, with the Revs. Dewayne Atkinson and Johnny Moore officiating. Interment followed at Pine Level Cemetery, Cairo.
Active pallbearers were grandsons.
Survivors include, a son, James H. Collins, Cairo; daughter and son-in-law, Carolyn and Gene Joyner, Tallahassee, Fla.; sisters, Ida Bell Collins, Cairo, and Inez Stokes of Thomasville, Ga.; grandchildren, Tony Collins, Crawfordville, Fla., Tammy Collins Cooper, Crestview, Fla., Sam Collins, Cairo, Daniel Joyner, Steven Joyner, Kenneth Joyner and Sharon Gandy, all of Tallahassee, Russell Dodson, Miami, Fla., and Darlene Landrum, Whigham, Ga.; and great-grandchildren, Miranda Collins, Richard Collins, Taylor Collins and Kyle Collins, all of Cairo, Chelsey Collins and Nicole Collins, both of Crawfordville, James Brandon and Joshua Cooper, both of Cresview, Hunter McLendon and Gage Landrum, both of Whigham, and Ariel and Tyler Gandy, both of Tallahassee.
Clark Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Submitted by Janet Sumner

February 4, 1916
LITTLE VIRGINIA CRAWFORD PASSES AWAY

A Shadow of gloom was cast over the home of Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Crawford when God saw fit to send the Angel of Death to take into His goodly company the little two-year old daughter, Virginia, who quietly passed away at four o'clock Wednesday morning after two weeks of patient suffering. It is sad to give up a cheerful, hopeful life of a darling little baby, however, we cannot help but look upward to the Creator who gives as well as takes the lives of His children for strength to bear sorrow nobly. We find much comfort when we look back on the beautiful life that has been taken away, and with the assurance that has been given us from above, we know that little Virginia has been carried only to a brighter and fairer land. She leaves behind many loved ones, as well as her playmates, to mourn her loss. The funeral was held from the residence, attended by a large concourse of relatives and friends. The services were conducted by Rev. J. T. Ryder assisted by Rev. W. C. Jones. The pall bearers were Messrs. J. M. Poulk, J. E. Forsyth, W. L. Wight and Thomas Wight. May God breathe peace and cheerful resignation into the hearts of the grief stricken family at this time and we hope that in Him they may find much to sustain and comfort them. " friends."
*Not related to me personally
*Submitted by Christine M. Burton
October 5, 1917
DEATH OF INFANT
MAE DAUGHERTY

After a continued illness of several days, little Mae O., the eighteen months old child of Mr. and Mrs. Randolph Daugherty died last Monday and laid to rest at Tired Creek cembetery. The Messenger tenders sympathy to the bereaved family in this hour of affliction. "Tis weel with the little child for it is written: "Suffer them to come unto Me."
That death would have been October 1, 1917
*Not related to me personally
*Submitted by Christine M. Burton

JAMES MADISON DEAN
The Cairo Messenger, August 22, 2001

June 14, 1936 - Aug. 20, 2001
Funeral services for James Madison Dean, 65, of Whigham were held Tuesday, Aug. 21, at New Home Freewill Baptist Church #2, Climax, with the Rev. Bennie C. Cumbie and the Rev. S.E. Newberry officiating.
Interment was in the Mizpah Cemetery, Pelham, with Glenn Ponder, Ken Ponder, Greg Ponder, Howard Scarborough, Russ Worsham, Chad Carden, Larry Posey and Jay McKenzie serving as pallbearers.
Mr. Dean died Monday at his residence. He was a lifetime resident of Grady County and a mechanic. He was a member of New Home Freewill Baptist Church #2 in Climax.
Survivors include his wife, Nell Harrell Dean; a daughter, Pamela Dean Crosson of Whigham; a son, Chad Dean, also of Whigham; a sister, Pauline Dorsey of Camilla; a sister, Mary Dean Poulk of Pelham; and a brother, LaVonne Dean of Whigham; and six grandchildren.
Clark Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Submitted by Janet Sumner
October 5, 1917
MR. L. C. DRAFFIN PASSED AWAY LAST SUNDAY

Mr. L. C. Draffin, one of the county's most highly respected citizens passed away last Sunday night about 12 o'clock, at his home seven miles above town. Mr. Draffin was about 70 years of age, and had been sick for four or five weeks, yet he had been in feeble health for a year or more. His death was due to old and stomach trouble. Mr. Draffin was a consistent member of the Pine Level Baptist church. The funeral services were held at three o'clock Monday afternoon, at Pine Level church, being conducted by Rev. J. P. Swann. The remains were interred in the church cemetery. A large crowd of sorrowing relatives and friends attened the last sad rites of this fine old gentleman. He is survived by his wife, four sons and three daughters, besides numerous relatives and friends. The Messenger extends condolence to the bereaved ones in their hour of affliction. * I looked the date up in a 20th Century Ephemeris. Last Sunday would have been 30 Sep. 1917
*Not related to me personally
*Submitted by Christine M. Burton

SHERWOOD DUNCAN
Obituary of Sherwood Duncan, Jan. 24, 1930 - Feb. 20, 2002 The Cairo Messenger, February 27, 2002

Mr. Sherwood Duncan, 72, retired assistant fire chief for Bainbridge Public Safety, and farmer, passed away in Cairo, Ga., on Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2002.
Mr. Duncan was born Jan. 24, 1930, in Grady County, Ga., the son of Wylie Duncan and Pearl Gainous Duncan. He served in the U.S. Army and was married to Allee Boyett on Dec. 22, 1930. He was a retired farmer and retired assistant fire chief for Bainbridge Public Safety. He was a member of the Advent Christian Church in Climax, Ga.
Services were held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 22, 2002, at Ivey Funeral Home Chapel, Bainbridge, with burial following at Pisgah Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery, Climax, Ga.
Survivors include his wife, Allee Boyett Duncan, Bainbridge; a daughter, Robbie D. (James) Brock, Bainbridge; four brothers, Glynn Duncan, Tallahassee, Fla., Bert Duncan, Lake City, Fla., Archie Duncan, Bainbridge, and Spencer Duncan, Whigham, Ga.; two sisters, Dorothy Hart, Fresno, California, and Betty D. Shoemaker, Bainbridge; and two granddaughters, Brittney Brock and Kelli Brock, both of Bainbridge.
Ivey Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Submitted by Janet Sumner

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