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.

Jose Jesus Navarro Martinez, age 95, of Cornelia, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 24, 2026.

Mr. Navarro Martinez was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend whose life was marked by devotion to his family, strong faith, and a deep love for his community. He will be remembered for his kind heart, quiet strength, and the wisdom he shared with those around him throughout his long and meaningful life.

Born in Mexico, to the late Dario Navarro and Magdalena Martinez, Jose carried with him a strong work ethic and enduring values that guided him throughout his 95 years. He dedicated his life to providing for his family and creating a legacy of love, respect, and perseverance that will continue through future generations. He was of the Catholic faith.

Those who knew him will forever cherish his warm smile, generous spirit, and unwavering dedication to the people he loved most. His presence brought comfort and joy to family gatherings, and his memory will remain a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Eulalia Fajardo Zaragoza; daughter, Rosario; and a granddaughter, Lucero Ramirez.

Survivors include his sons, Alfredo, Agustin, Ramon, Rogelio, and Fernando; daughters, Maria Elena, Carmen, Maria, Magdalena, and Rosario; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; brothers, Pedro, Jose, and Ramon; sisters, Luz and Elvira; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral mass will be held at 11 am on Friday, May 29, 2026, at St. Mark Catholic Church, with Father Raul de Leon officiating. Interment will follow in Level Grove Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 2 – 8 pm on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at the funeral home, with a rosary beginning at 6 pm.

An online guest registry is available for the Martinez family at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com

McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.

José Jesús Navarro Martínez, de 95 años de edad y residente de Cornelia, falleció pacíficamente el domingo 24 de mayo de 2026.

El Sr. Navarro Martínez fue un amado esposo, padre, abuelo, bisabuelo y amigo, cuya vida estuvo marcada por la devoción a su familia, una fe inquebrantable y un profundo amor por su comunidad. Será recordado por su corazón bondadoso, su fortaleza serena y la sabiduría que compartió con quienes lo rodeaban a lo largo de su larga y significativa vida.

Nacido en México, hijo de los difuntos Darío Navarro y Magdalena Martínez, José llevó consigo una sólida ética de trabajo y unos valores perdurables que lo guiaron a lo largo de sus 95 años. Dedicó su vida a proveer para su familia y a crear un legado de amor, respeto y perseverancia que perdurará a través de las generaciones futuras. Profesaba la fe católica.

Aquellos que lo conocieron atesorarán por siempre su cálida sonrisa, su espíritu generoso y su inquebrantable dedicación a las personas que más amaba. Su presencia brindaba consuelo y alegría en las reuniones familiares, y su recuerdo seguirá siendo una bendición para todos aquellos que tuvieron el privilegio de conocerlo.

Además de sus padres, le precedieron en la muerte su amada esposa, Eulalia Fajardo Zaragoza; su hija, Rosario; y una nieta, Lucero Ramírez.

Entre sus sobrevivientes se encuentran sus hijos: Alfredo, Agustín, Ramón, Rogelio y Fernando; sus hijas: María Elena, Carmen, María, Magdalena y Rosario; numerosos nietos y bisnietos; un tataranieto; sus hermanos: Pedro, José y Ramón; sus hermanas: Luz y Elvira; así como muchos sobrinos, otros familiares y amigos.

La misa fúnebre se celebrará a las 11:00 a. m. del viernes 29 de mayo de 2026 en la Iglesia Católica St. Mark, oficiada por el Padre Raúl de León. El sepelio tendrá lugar a continuación en el Cementerio Level Grove.

La familia recibirá a los amigos el jueves 28 de mayo de 2026, de 2:00 p. m. a 8:00 p. m., en la funeraria; el rezo del rosario comenzará a las 6:00 p. m. Hay disponible un registro de visitas en línea para la familia Martínez en www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com.

La Funeraria McGahee-Griffin & McEntire de Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668), está a cargo de los arreglos.

James Ray “Hoss” Smith, age 61 of Cornelia, Georgia, passed away on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center.

Born in Toccoa, Georgia on November 30, 1964, he was a son of the late Joseph Travis Smith and Frances Emmelene Savage Smith.

Hoss worked in construction for many years and was known as a hardworking man who never shied away from lending a helping hand. In his spare time, he found great joy in the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. Whether spending time in the woods or on the water, those moments brought him peace and happiness. Most of all, Hoss treasured the friendships and relationships he shared throughout his life.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Joey Smith and Marvin Smith; and by his sister, Janet Whitfield.

Survivors include his brothers and sisters-in-law, Ira & Janice Smith and Rev. Ralph & JoAnn Smith; as well as several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends who will cherish his memory for years to come.

At his request, Hoss was cremated, and a memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at a later date at Safe Harbor Church of God.

An online guest registry is available for the Smith family at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com

McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home (706-778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.

Helen Maxine Crawford, age 83 of Commerce, Georgia, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. Born in Andrews, North Carolina on October 30, 1942, she was a daughter of the late Buck Holland and Winne Panther Holland.

Helen dedicated many years of her life caring for others as a Certified Nursing Assistant with Valley View Care & Rehabilitation. She had a servant’s heart and was known for her kindness, compassion, and gentle spirit. Above all, Helen treasured her family deeply. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud Nana whose greatest joy came from spending time with those she loved most. Her warmth, wisdom, and caring nature will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, Donald Joel Crawford; sister, Margaret Stiles; and brothers, Charles Holland and Jimmy Holland.

Survivors include her children, Trena & Danny Green of Commerce, Georgia; Dena & David Whitaker of Marble, North Carolina; and Brian Crawford of Carnesville, Georgia; 9 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; as well as a host of other relatives and friends who will cherish her memory.

Helen’s wishes were to be cremated and a celebration of her life will be held at a later time.

An online guest registry is available for the Crawford family at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com

McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.

Teresa Odum Dean, age 67 of Clarkesville, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.

Born in Carrollton on October 14, 1958, she was a daughter of the late Rev. Howard Odum and Delores Magness Odum.

Teresa was a graduate of Habersham Central High School, Class of 1976. She retired from North Georgia Technical College as an administrative assistant following many years of dedicated service. Teresa was a loving wife, caring mother, and devoted Nonnah to her precious grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immeasurable joy to her life.

Known for her warm heart and welcoming spirit, Teresa was especially loved for her delicious cooking and baking that blessed countless family gatherings and special occasions. She treasured every moment spent with those she loved and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, faith, and unwavering devotion to her family. Most importantly, Teresa loved the Lord wholeheartedly and faithfully served Him throughout her life. She was a member of Oakey Mountain Baptist Church in Clarkesville.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Michael Odum; and sister and brother-in-law, Dianne and Harold Gunn.

Survivors include her loving husband of 50 years, Lamar W. Dean; son and daughter-in-law, Daniel and Missy Dean; daughter and son-in-law, Erin and Michael Cross; grandchildren, Kenley & Bailey Gaddis and Mykiah Cross; great-grandchildren, Shepp and Miles Gaddis; sister and brother-in-law, Deborah and Lee Trotman; brother, Eddie Odum & Barbara; former sister-in-law and friend, Teresa Adams Densmore; as well as several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a host of cherished friends.

Funeral services are scheduled for 12:00 p.m. Saturday, May 23, 2026 at Oakey Mountain Baptist Church with Rev. Kenneth McEntire officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the service hour on Saturday.

An online guest registry is available for the Dean family at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com

McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home (706-778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.

Guynell Lawrence Ansley, age 86 of Mount Airy, Georgia, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 23, 2026.

Born in Banks County, Georgia on April 07, 1940, she was a daughter of the late William Andrew “Andy” Lawrence and Alice Nellie Waters Lawrence. Guynell was the Valedictorian of her graduating class at Banks County High School in 1958, a reflection of her dedication and strong character that remained evident throughout her life. She retired from Scovill Manufacturing after many years of faithful and dedicated service.

Guynell was a woman of deep love, unwavering kindness, and quiet strength. She treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family, and friends, always pouring into their lives with compassion, wisdom, and encouragement. Her life was a beautiful example of grace and faith, truly embodying the spirit of a Proverbs 31 lady. Her gentle heart, servant’s spirit, and steadfast love for her family will forever be cherished by all who knew her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, William Charles Ansley; daughter, Sheila Barrett; son-in-law, Tony Sullivan; brother, Swayne Lawrence; and sisters, Lucile Coile and Imogene Watts Riley.

Survivors include her children and spouses, Dwayne & Renee Ansley and Melanie Sullivan; son-in-law, Scott Barrett; sister and brother-in-law, Joann & Leo Ladzinske; grandchildren, Heath & Jessica Barrett, Josh & Tricia Barrett, Brianna & Nick Webb, Emily & Javier Dominguez, Amy Ansley & Tom Miller, Madeline Ansley & Cole Stanfill, and Andy & Chelsea Sullivan, Haley Sullivan & Kaitlyn Reeder; 10 great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends who were blessed by her love and presence.

Funeral services are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 27, 2026 from the Chapel of McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home with Rev. Trent Smith officiating. Interment will follow in Hazel Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the kind and compassionate staff of Magnolia Hills Assisted Living for the love, care, and support shown to Guynell during the past five years. Your friendship, dedication, and gentle care brought comfort and peace to us and your kindness will never be forgotten.

An online guest registry is available for the Ansley family at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com

McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.

Marie Etta Pittman-Brewton 87 of Baldwin, Georgia, peacefully transitioned to be with the Lord on May 16th 2026.

Marie was born February 1, 1939 in San Bernardino, California to Jack and Mary Pittman.

Marie was a former resident of Cumming, Georgia and then later moved to Baldwin with her daughter Cara and late son in law Robert Korom.

Marie was a graduate of San Bernardino High-school, and attended Valley College both located in San Bernardino California.

Marie had a very distinguished career working for the civil service in conjunction with the United States Military. The first two decades of this service was logistical support of the development of the SR-71 spy plane, from December 1964, at its induction, to its declassified status in February of 1980. After completing her mission with logistics for the SR-71, Marie was then transferred directly to US Missile Command that was located in a secured location at Norton Air Force Base, in San Bernardino California. Marie also served at the China Lake Bed test facility and Edward’s Air Force Base both located in secure locations in northwest San Bernardino County, California. Up until the day that Marie transitioned into the hands of God, she seldom acknowledged any of her logistics work with anyone. Marie held one of our nation’s top military clearances.

In her spare time, Marie was a seamstress and very talented quilter. When you look at Marie’s sewing and quilting projects, you can see the time she took to make each and every stitch meticulously perfect, and everyone can see the love in everything that she created. She also volunteered at Northside Hospital in Cumming, Georgia after her retirement.

Marie is preceded in death by her mother, Mary Pittman, her Father Jack Pittman, her younger sisters, Charlotte Pittman-Olenick, and Ida Pittman-Sifford.

Marie is survived by her daughter, Cara Korom and son-in-law Steven Leverette of Baldwin, daughters Melissa Marie Korom of Demorest, Christina Korom-Martin of Mt Airy, 5 great grandchildren, Morgan Hissam, Abigail Johnson, Benjamin Martin, Tommy Martin, and a little miracle Eleanor Martin.

A Celebration to honor Ms. Brewton’s life will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at the Whitfield Funeral Home, South Chapel. Family and friends of Marie are welcome to attend. A

Private Inurnment will be held at the Yonah Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, South Chapel at 1370 Industrial Boulevard, Baldwin, Georgia 30511. Telephone: 706-778-7123.

Rickey Curtis, age 72, of Demorest, Georgia passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026.

Mr. Curtis was born on April 14, 1954 in Kansas to the late Floyd Curtis and Kathlene Branscum Curtis. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by step-father, Gene Pectol.

Rickey was a United States Air Force Veteran, serving his country as a Missile Electronic Specialist from 1973 to 1977. Following his military service, Rickey built a long and respected career with Fieldale Farms, where he served for many years as Live Haul Manager. Rickey was a loving husband, father, and brother who loved spending time with everyone he considered family, both at home and work. He was an avid outdoorsman who spent a great deal of time exploring and camping in the mountains. Whether by hiking, kayaking, or in his UTV with friends. He had studied architecture in college, having held an appreciation for design and craftsmanship. Rickey was also a member of The Church of Christ.

Survivors include his loving wife of 39 years, Rebecca Dodd Curtis, of Demorest; son and daughter-in-law, Joshua and Carlan Curtis, of Toccoa; granddaughter, Victoria Rae Curtis, of Toccoa; sisters, Janis Shane, of Batesville, AK; Arrita Barnes, of Newark, AK; mother-in-law, Evelyn Campbell Dodd, of Demorest; nephew and spouse, Randy and Jamie Shane, of Batesville, AK; nieces and spouses, Tonya and Kevin Johnson, of Batesville, AK; Ashley and Jason Brickey, of Batesville, AK; nephew and spouse, Kyley and Christie Barnes, of Levanworth, KS; nieces and spouses, Shelby and Kevin McCormick, of Batesville; niece, Alyssa and Jason Broadway, of Newark, AK; and several great-nieces and great-nephews as well as great-great nieces and great-great nephews.

Rickey’s wishes were to be cremated with no formal services held.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, North Chapel at 245 Central Avenue, Demorest, Georgia 30535. Telephone: 706-778-1700.