Elaine Echols Popphan, age 85, of Lula, Georgia went home to be with the Lord on Monday, May 25, 2026.
Mrs. Popphan was born June 21, 1940 in Hall County, Georgia to the late James and Sylvia Boling Echols. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 43 years, Winford Lewis Popphan; and her step-daughter, Barbara Daniels.
Elaine dedicated many years of service as a Librarian with the Hall County Library system. A lifelong reader herself, she found great joy in books and encouraged that same passion in others. She was an active member of Enon Baptist Church for many years. During her time there, Elaine faithfully served as a back-up pianist and volunteered in Vacation Bible School, sharing her talents and heart for ministry with her church family. In recent years, she was a member of Grove Level Baptist Church, where she continued to grow in her faith. Outside of work and church, Elaine enjoyed floral arranging and found beauty in creating meaningful displays for family, friends, and special occasions. Her gentle spirit, caring nature, and thoughtful ways will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.
Most importantly, Elaine cherished her family. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister. She will especially be remembered for her steadfast dedication as a military wife, a military mother, and a military grandmother, proudly supporting and encouraging her family through every season of service and sacrifice.
Survivors include her sons and their spouses, Winford Lewis “Jay” Popphan, Jr and Scotty, of Rome; James “Jamie” Popphan and Tabitha, of Prattville, AL; brother and sister-in-law, Wayne Echols and Theresa, Toccoa; grandchildren, Sylvia Popphan, Paul Popphan and Shelby, Peter Popphan, Olivia Popphan, Thomas Popphan; step-grandchildren, Davie Daniels, Samantha Daniels; great-grandchildren, Valerie Popphan and Charlotte Popphan.
A Graveside Service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, May 29, 2026 at Enon Baptist Church Cemetery. All family and friends should gather at the cemetery at 2:50 p.m., prior to the service.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, May 28, 2026 at the Whitfield Funeral Home, South Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gideon’s International South Camp, P.O. Box 198, Baldwin, Georgia 30511.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, South Chapel at 1370 Industrial Boulevard, Baldwin, Georgia 30511. Telephone: 706-778-7123.
