Strickland Funeral Home - Hartwell Chapel

Strickland Funeral Home - Hartwell Chapel Strickland Funeral Home - Hartwell Chapel has a tradition of dedicated service that was established i

Vencie Kilpatrick BoatwrightMrs. Vencie Lena Mae Kilpatrick Boatwright, 92, of Hartwell, was called home to be with her ...
04/24/2026

Vencie Kilpatrick Boatwright

Mrs. Vencie Lena Mae Kilpatrick Boatwright, 92, of Hartwell, was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, April 20, 2026, at her residence.

Born June 28, 1933, in Bryson City, North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Troy A. Kilpatrick and Estelle Carson Kilpatrick. Mrs. Boatwright attended Mars Hill College, where she earned her associate’s degree in photography. She retired from the Internal Revenue Service after many years of dedicated service.

She was a faithful and longtime member of First Baptist Church of Atlanta, where she joyfully served in the choir for more than 40 years. Her life was marked by her love for the Lord, her devotion to her family, and her gift of song. Following the passing of her husband, Charles Boatwright, in 2021, she moved to Hartwell, Georgia, where she became a member of Liberty Baptist Church.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Faye Gillespie and Elizabeth Ross.

Survivors include her children, in order of age: Rev. Rodney Boatwright and his wife, Donna, of Wheaton, Illinois; Donna Hampton and her husband, Rick, of Hartwell, Georgia; and Kenneth Boatwright and his wife, Marjorie, of Hobe Sound, Florida.

She is also survived by her grandchildren: Megan Cowley and her husband, Jake; Bethany Tabailloux and her husband, Tim; Ben Boatwright and his wife, Aimie; Michael Hampton; and Kate Hedges and her husband, Jordan; as well as 11 great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. prior to the service on Friday, May 15, 2026 at Liberty Baptist Church.

A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026 at Liberty Baptist Church, with Rev. Andy Buchanan and Rev. Rodney Boatwright officiating.

A committal service for Mrs. Boatwright’s ashes will be Monday, May 18, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at the Sarasota National Cemetery, Sarasota FL.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in memory of Mrs. Boatwright to Liberty Baptist Church, Missions Fund, 5262 Royston Hwy, Hartwell GA 30643.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.

View Vencie Kilpatrick Boatwright's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Jo Templeton TurnerMrs. Jo Turner, of Hartwell, passed away Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at her home.Born in Wrens GA, she wa...
04/22/2026

Jo Templeton Turner

Mrs. Jo Turner, of Hartwell, passed away Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at her home.

Born in Wrens GA, she was the daughter of the late Garland Templeton and Janie Belle Purdue Templeton Phillips. She was a retired bookkeeper for Jerry Turner Construction and a member of Abundant Life Baptist Church. She was a former realtor in Xenia OH and loved her animals.

Survivors include her husband: Jerry Turner; two sons: Chuck Turner (Lynn) of Hartwell and Tony Sexton of Columbia KY; a daughter Julie Turner of Spartanburg SC; two brothers: Jim Templeton (Maria) of Ft. Mill SC and Ray Templeton of Thomson GA; five grandchildren: Jonas Walker, Noah Walker, Emma Walker, Benjamin Walker, Mallory Turner and three great grandchildren: Khloe Long, Josiah Long and Myles Long also survive.

Mrs. Turner was preceded in death by her parents; step-father: Sam Phillips; two brothers: Frank Templeton and Andrew Templeton; and two sisters: Alice Buckner and Frances Templeton.

The family will receive friends Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell. The other times the family will be at the home.

A memorial service for Mrs. Jo Turner will be Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Strickland Funeral Home with Rev. Ken Brewer and Rev. John Mitchell officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hart County Humane Society, PO Box 1062, Hartwell GA 30643.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.

View Jo Templeton Turner's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Betty Burdette LynchMrs. Betty Carol Burdette Lynch, 74, of Hartwell, passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at Hart Care C...
04/15/2026

Betty Burdette Lynch

Mrs. Betty Carol Burdette Lynch, 74, of Hartwell, passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at Hart Care Center.

Born on January 26, 1952 in Hartwell GA, she was the daughter of the late Clyde Burdette and Helen Sanders Burdette. She was a retired CNA from Hart Care Center, a member of Cross Roads Baptist Church and attended Price Chapel Church of God.

Survivors include one brother: Billy Burdette (Susan) of Pendergrass GA and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband: Randall Lynch; two brothers: Willie Clyde Burdette, Doug Burdette and one sister: Joyce Smith.

The family will receive friends Sunday, April 19, 2026 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell. The family are at their respective homes.

A memorial service for Mrs. Betty Lynch will be Sunday, April 19, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Strickland Funeral Home with Rev. Phillip Burdette officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 105 West Park Drive, Suite C, Athens, GA 30606.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.

View Betty Burdette Lynch's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

James D. Moore Sr.Mr. James Douglas Moore, Sr., 80, of Hartwell GA, passed away Monday, April 13, 2026 at the Northside ...
04/14/2026

James D. Moore Sr.

Mr. James Douglas Moore, Sr., 80, of Hartwell GA, passed away Monday, April 13, 2026 at the Northside Gwinnett Medical Center, Lawrenceville GA.

Born on January 22, 1946 in Athens GA, James was the son of the late Northern C. Moore, Sr. and Sara Louise Gaines Moore, and was raised by the late Bertie Mae Pierce Moore. His professional career began in the grocery industry, transitioned to life insurance with Woodmen of the World, and he eventually retired as a Correctional Officer with Whitworth Detention Center.

After retirement, James was a member of the Hartwell Golf Club and later volunteered his services at the golf course. He also volunteered for Meals on Wheels and the Hart County Historical Museum. He was a proud member of the Saye’s Boys social club and also actively participated in the annual high school reunion for Hart County Class of 1964. He was a devoted Christian and of the Baptist Faith, and he enjoyed attending Cross Roads Baptist Church. James was also a proud veteran of the U. S. Navy.

Survivors include his son: Doug Moore of Cu***ng GA; his daughter and son-in-law: Alice and Jay Jones of Suffolk VA; close brothers: NC Moore of Cartersville GA and Tyler Moore of Crockett TX; four grandchildren: Blake Moore, Brooke Moore, Trey Jones, and Marie Jones.

The family will receive friends Saturday, April 18, 2026 from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell.

A memorial service celebrating the life of Mr. James Douglas Moore, Sr. will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Strickland Funeral Home with Rev. Gettis Allen and Rev. Cameron Martin officiating. Military Honors will follow the service provided by the U.S. Navy Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, James would appreciate donations to his following causes that he would generously contribute to: Cross Roads Baptist Church, Gettis Allen - Church of God and other churches, Hart County Historical Museum, and the Hart County Animal Rescue.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.

View James D. Moore Sr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Shirley Norton HeatonMrs. Shirley Ann Norton Heaton, 87, of Hartwell, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 13, 2026 a...
04/13/2026

Shirley Norton Heaton

Mrs. Shirley Ann Norton Heaton, 87, of Hartwell, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 13, 2026 at her home after a long illness.

Born on February 3, 1939, in Hartwell GA, she was the daughter of the late John James Norton and Ruby Vickery Norton. She was a long-time member of the Flat Shoals Baptist Church then later relocated to Hartwell First Baptist Church of Hartwell where she was very active in Sunday School. She was very passionate about everything she did and she did it SO well. She loved gardening and growing flowers, she was talented as a pianist and loved playing for family and friends, she was a wonderful cook and was always the designated one to bring the birthday cake, and she also started collecting antiques way back in the early 60’s before anyone thought about being interested in them and had quite a beautiful collection of furniture, glassware, and interesting things. Shirley worked as a Physical Therapy Nurse at Hart County Hospital for a number of years before an early retirement.

Shirley is survived by her sister: Nadean Banister (Grady); a very special niece: Lydia Mauldin (Chip); her faithful companion/caretaker: John Neitzel; three sisters-in law: Elizabeth H. Moore, Dean Heaton and Linda Norton all of Hartwell ; one brother-in-law: Paul W. Heaton (Merita) of California; one aunt: Lutrelle Norton of Alto, GA; and many precious nieces & nephews, and many loving cousins also survive.

Shirley was preceded in death by her loving devoted husband of over 50 years: Burkley Heaton; parents: John James & Ruby Norton; a sister: Mildred Ethridge; and infant sister: Betty Jean Norton; and a brother: Jerry Norton.

It was Mrs. Shirley Heaton’s wishes to be cremated and a graveside service will be held Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Nancy Hart Memorial Park with Rev. Matt Elmore and Mr. Lonnie Unruh officiating. The family will receive friends following the graveside. At other times the family will be at the home of Grady & Nadean Banister, 177 Cedar Pond Rd, Hartwell.

Flowers are optional, memorials may be made to the Sardis Baptist Church, 4359 Anderson Hwy, Hartwell, GA 30643.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.

View Shirley N. Heaton's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Helen Phillips Bannister (Courtesy)Helen Lou Phillips Bannister, age 84, of Anderson, SC, passed away on Thursday, April...
04/11/2026

Helen Phillips Bannister (Courtesy)

Helen Lou Phillips Bannister, age 84, of Anderson, SC, passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Hartwell Health and Rehabilitation.

Born December 23, 1941, in Honea Path, SC, she was the daughter of the late Harold Lamar Phillips and Essie Lou Gunnels Phillips. She was married for 64 years to her beloved husband, Dr. Wendell Ray Bannister until his death on March 17, 2026. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Lamar Phillips; sisters, Ruth Shaw (Bobby) and Judy Bannister; sister-in-law, Judy Phillips; and stepfather, Wister Dale Fleming.

Helen was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Together with her husband Wendell, she was involved in ministry beginning in early adulthood. Her husband began his ministerial career in Hartwell, GA at Flat Shoals Baptist Church. They both had compassionate hearts and were led to begin a nursing home ministry at Hartwell Health and Rehabilitation where they often took their children and the church youth group to visit the residents. Both Helen and Wendell later became residents of the place they loved so much and where they both ended their journey together.

Helen loved serving in mission work and especially enjoyed working with youth and senior adults. She was the true definition of a woman of faith. In her spare time, she enjoyed shopping trips to Belk, cooking, spending time with family and visiting senior adult shut-ins from their church.

Left to cherish and honor her memory are her sons, Cam Bannister (Teresa) and Dale Bannister (Christi); grandchildren, Braden Bannister (Kelsie), Caitlyn Bannister (Kate), Jordan Bannister, Ethan Bannister, and Kerigan Bannister; great grandchildren, Orren and Stetson; brother, Bobby Phillips; sister-in-law, Rita Phillips; and brother-in-law, James Bannister.

The family will receive friends on Monday, April 13, 2026, from 12:00-1:30 pm at The McDougald Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at 2:00 pm in the Chapel with Rev. Michael Kinard officiating. Burial will follow at Garden of Memories in Belton.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorial contributions may be made to AIM, 1202 S. Murray Ave., Anderson, SC 29624, or Haven of Rest Ministries, 219 W. Whitner St., Anderson, SC 29624.

Condolences may be left for the family by visiting WWW.MCDOUGALDFUNERALHOME.COM

This announcement courtesy of the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell

View Helen Phillips Bannister (Courtesy)'s obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Rebecca Palmer SmithMs. Rebecca Colleen Palmer-Smith, 53, of Hartwell, passed away Friday, April 3, 2026, at Emory St. J...
04/10/2026

Rebecca Palmer Smith

Ms. Rebecca Colleen Palmer-Smith, 53, of Hartwell, passed away Friday, April 3, 2026, at Emory St. Joseph Hospital in Atlanta.

She is survived by her sons: Russell Palmer of Hartwell and Alex Palmer of Stillmore GA; mother, Janet Denman Rogers of Hartwell; sister, Jennifer Hix of Hartwell; brother, Heath Frost and wife Scottie of Cataula; her husband, Luther Smith; several aunts, uncles and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her late husband, Randall Palmer; father, Danny Heywood; and grandparents, George Deloan Denman and Colleen Tucker Denman.

A memorial service to celebrate Rebecca’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 14, at Cedar Creek Baptist Church, 3864 Elberton Hwy., Hartwell, with Mr. Tony Fowler officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations for her son, Russell and her autistic son, Alex can be mailed to Jennifer Hix, 217 Sanders Circle, Hartwell, GA 30643

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.

View Rebecca Palmer Smith's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Rebecca Ferguson MartinRebecca F. Martin, age 84, of Bowersville, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026, in her home s...
04/09/2026

Rebecca Ferguson Martin

Rebecca F. Martin, age 84, of Bowersville, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026, in her home surrounded by her children and loved ones.

Born on December 12, 1941 in Easley, SC, Rebecca was the beloved daughter of the late Rev. Marvin and Frances Ferguson. Rebecca was always known for her love of Max, her children, her family, and her church. She was a member of Cross Roads Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School and led women’s Bible studies. She was also the beloved teacher to so many students in Hart County at Airline Elementary for over 20 years. She also worked at the Department of Children and Family Services. One of the places she loved most was Martin Dairy Farm where she helped Max farm and run their dairy farm.

Rebecca earned degrees in social work and education from Brewton Parker, Georgia Southern, the University of Georgia, and Brenau University. She earned a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Specialist.

Rebecca cherished her family and is survived by her son: Jason Martin (Amy) of Bowersville; two daughters: Sharon Ankerich (Scott) of Hartwell and Marcia Muckenfuss (Chris) of Summerville, SC; sixteen grandchildren: Savannah Dove (Josh), Jessica Verdin, Amelia Fleeman (Logan), Rosemary Frey (Hayden), Rebecca Muckenfuss, Samuel Muckenfuss, EllaKate Ankerich, Shaylee Joy Ankerich, Payne Curtis Ankerich, Max Martin, William Perry Ankerich, EvieClaire Ankerich, HollyMei Ankerich, Adelyn Martin, CallaAnne Ankerich, Slate Martin; and eight great-grandchildren: Ben Dove, Marshall Dove, Scottie Fleeman, Lennox Fleeman, Miller Fleeman, Leighton Frey, Brooklyn Verdin, and Kendall Verdin.

Mrs. Martin is preceded in death by her parents; husband: Max Kendall Martin; son: John Martin; and brother: Marvin Ferguson.

The family will receive friends Sunday, April 12, 2026 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell. Other times the family will be at the home.

Memorial services for Mrs. Rebecca Martin will be held Sunday, April 12, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell with Revs. Jason Martin, Ben Coleman, and Sean Payne officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Cross Roads Baptist Church, 3636 Lavonia Hwy, Hartwell, GA 30643.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements. On-line condolences can be sent to the family at www.stricklandfh.com.

View Rebecca F. Martin's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Saan TeasleyMr. Saan Andrew Teasley, 61, of Hartwell, passed away peacefully Sunday, March 29, 2026 at his home surround...
03/29/2026

Saan Teasley

Mr. Saan Andrew Teasley, 61, of Hartwell, passed away peacefully Sunday, March 29, 2026 at his home surrounded by his family.

Born on March 16, 1965 in Hartwell GA, he was the son of the late Bruce Andrew Teasley and Jane Elizabeth Fleming Teasley. Saan was a self-employed farmer and a devoted member of the Bethesda Methodist Church.

Survivors include his wife: Gwen Stowe Teasley; a son: Drew Teasley (Ashley) of Hartwell; two daughters: Lauren Gagnon (Bryan) and Caitlin Dye (Adam) all of Hartwell; a brother: Shannon Teasley (Jean) of Hartwell; three grandchildren: Hazel Gagnon, Conrad Teasley and Shane Dye; two sisters-in-law: Kathy Brock and Sondra Dodd both of Hartwell also survive.

The family will receive friends Monday, March 30, 2026 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell. Other times the family will be at the home.

Funeral services for Mr. Saan Teasley will be Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at the Bethesda Methodist Church with Rev. Bryce Behnke officiating. Burial will be in the Bethesda Methodist Church Cemetery.

Flowers are optional, and memorials may be made to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis TN 38105 or Ronald McDonald House, 2580 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta GA 30329

The Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements

View Saan Teasley's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Marcy Wicker HillMs. Marcy Jane Wicker Hill, 57, of Hartwell, passed away Sunday, March 22, 2026 at her home.Born on Aug...
03/23/2026

Marcy Wicker Hill

Ms. Marcy Jane Wicker Hill, 57, of Hartwell, passed away Sunday, March 22, 2026 at her home.

Born on August 2, 1968 in Kansas City KS, she was the daughter of Elsie Jane Carruth Wicker and the late Terry Wicker. Marcy graduated from the Medical College of Georgia with a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. She was also a member of the Reed Creek Baptist Church, where she helped in the Children’s ministry.

Survivors include her mother: Jane Wicker of Hartwell; a daughter: Amber Brewer (Caleb) and a granddaughter: Hazel Brewer all of Dublin GA; two sons: Brandon Hill (Taylor) of Eastanollee GA and Tyler Hill of Guyton GA; a sister: Jody Slice (David) of Anderson SC; a niece: Emily Payton (Zach); two nephews: Luke Slice and Adam Slice (Kinsley Mize); great-niece and nephew: Sarah Ann & Walker Payton; and her life partner: Dale Andrews also survive.

The family will receive friends Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 11:00 am to 12 noon in the Sanctuary of the Reed Creek Baptist Church in Hartwell. Other times the family will be at the home of her mother, Mrs. Jane Wicker, Wicker Rd, Hartwell.

Marcy wished to be cremated and a memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at 12:00 noon, with Pastor Marlon Valladares & Mr. Luke Slice officiating, following the visitation in the church sanctuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Reed Creek Baptist Church Children’s Ministries, 116 Boleman Hill Road, Hartwell GA 30643.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.

View Marcy Wicker Hill's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

John "Buzzy" Griffith Jr.Mr. John L. “Buzzy” Griffith Jr., 74, of Hartwell, passed away peacefully Friday, March 20, 202...
03/21/2026

John "Buzzy" Griffith Jr.

Mr. John L. “Buzzy” Griffith Jr., 74, of Hartwell, passed away peacefully Friday, March 20, 2026, at Piedmont Athens Regional Hospital surrounded by his family.

Born on September 9, 1951, in Douglas GA, he was the son of the late John L. “Johnny” Griffith Sr. and Dorothy Cowart Griffith. Buzzy is survived by his devoted and caring wife of 52 years, Kathy; his daughter Mandy Harper (Mac) of Chapin, SC; and his son John L. “Bo” Griffith III of Atlanta, GA. He was the proudest “Poop” to his beloved knuckleheads—grandsons Ty Harper (19) and Griffith “Griff” Harper (17).

He is also survived by his cherished siblings: Susan Couch of Watkinsville, GA; Ginger Summerville of Duluth, GA; Georgia Griffith of Anna Marie Island, FL.; and Robert Griffith (Becky) of Dacula, GA; along with his special sister-in-law Becky Welch of Lafayette, GA. Buzzy adored his 10 nieces and nephews and 12 great-nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Buzzy was a graduate of Duluth High School and East Tennessee State University, where he was the place kicker for the Buccaneers while earning his BS in Health Science. He began his career as a high school football and soccer coach at Aiken High School in Aiken, SC, and Miller County High School in Colquitt, GA. His love of coaching and his talent for motivating young people never left him.

Buzzy went on to spend 29 years with Martin Marietta Aggregates, as a sales rep and then manager in the Macon, GA; Savannha, GA; Columbia, SC; and Duluth, GA. He later enjoyed several years with Blue Grass Materials before fully retiring. He was a proud member of the Georgia Crushed Stone Association and built lifelong friendships throughout his career.

Sports were woven into every part of Buzzy’s life, especially Georgia Football. His most treasured memories were coaching Bo at Seven Oaks Park in Irmo and continuing to support and coach him through high school and college baseball. Buzzy never missed a game or competition of Mandy cheerleading. As for his grandsons, he was their biggest fan and was often found in the stands, sometimes sneaking in the dugout, and always coaching from the heart.

In retirement, Buzzy embraced every moment: attending Georgia football games, golfing with his Hartwell buddies at Cateechee Golf Club, watching Ty and Griff play baseball and never missing his UGA Monday Quarterback Club meetings. He was a member of Hartwell First Methodist Church. Buzzy was a master storyteller, a friend to all and never met a stranger. His quick wit, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by everyone who had the joy of knowing him.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals at Piedmont Hospital Atlanta, Piedmont Athens Regional, Elberton Memorial Hospital, and Compassus Hospice for their compassionate care.

Family and friends are invited to Buzzy’s Memorial Service at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, April 12, 2026 at Hartwell First Methodist Church with Dr. R. Allen Stewart and Rev. Matt Parker officiating. A Celebration of Life will follow at Cateechee Golf Club (3:30-5:00). Wear your GA Red and Black or your best golf attire!

In lieu of flowers, the family ask that memorials be made to:

Hartwell First Methodist Church: Youth or Children’s Ministries

https://www.hartwellfirstmethodist.com/giving

or

Irmo Chapin Recreation Center, where his children and grandchildren participated in community sports:

The Chase Loveless Memorial Scholarship Fund

https://www.cognitoforms.com/IrmoChapinRecreationCommission1/DonateNowGiveTheGiftOfRecreation

or you can call 803-772-1228 Administration Office.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with the arrangements. On-line condolences can be sent to the family at www.stricklandfh.com.

View John "Buzzy" Griffith Jr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Dr. Wendell Bannister (Courtesy)Dr. Wendell Ray Bannister, age 83, of Anderson, SC, passed away on Tuesday, March 17, 20...
03/19/2026

Dr. Wendell Bannister (Courtesy)

Dr. Wendell Ray Bannister, age 83, of Anderson, SC, passed away on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at Hartwell Health and Rehabilitation.

Born October 27, 1942, in Anderson County, SC, he was a son of the late Robert Leon Bannister and Rebecca Vanadore Bannister. He was also preceded in death by two brothers-in-law, Roger Whitmire and Roy McCoy.

Dr. Bannister was a graduate of Belton High School and served in the National Guard. He went on to earn his Master's Degree and Doctorate of Divinity and Theology from Luther Rice Seminary. He began his ministry at Flat Shoals Baptist Church in Hartwell, GA, followed by Woodfields Baptist Church in Greenwood, SC, and retired after 33 years as a faithful servant of Orrville Baptist Church in Anderson, SC. After retirement, he went back to Hartwell, serving as the interim pastor at both Flat Shoals Baptist Church and Sardis Baptist Church. He was a member of Concord Baptist Church.

Dr. Bannister's ministry mission was to preach the Word with love and compassion. He always had a passion for senior adult ministries and especially enjoyed going to nursing homes to spend time with the residents. He was a pastor's pastor, serving as a mentor and advisor to many pastors throughout the years as well as to many youth and students. He was a faithful servant of the Lord, loved his family, God and the church.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Helen Phillips Bannister; sons, Cam Bannister (Teresa) and Dale Bannister (Christi); brothers, James Bannister (Judy) and Mike Bannister (Tracie); sisters, Shelby Whitmire, Ann Key (Bobby), and Sharon McCoy; grandchildren, Braden Bannister (Kelsie), Caitlyn Bannister (Kate), Jordan Bannister, Ethan Bannister, and Kerigan Bannister; and great grandchildren, Orren and Stetson.

The family will receive friends on Friday, March 20, 2026, from 12:30-1:30 pm at The McDougald Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at 2:00 pm in the Chapel with Rev. Chase Stone officiating. Burial will follow at Garden of Memories in Belton.

Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to AIM, 1202 S Murray Ave, Anderson, SC 29624, or Haven of Rest Ministries, 219 W. Whitner St, Anderson, SC 29624.

Condolences may be left for the family by visiting WWW.MCDOUGALDFUNERALHOME.COM

This announcement courtesy of the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell

View Dr. Wendell Bannister (Courtesy)'s obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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305 Cleveland Avenue
Hartwell, GA
30643

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