Strickland Funeral Home - Lavonia Chapel

05/01/2026

William Teate

William Alfred Teate, age 87, of Martin, passed away on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at his home.

Born on April 25, 1939, in Hart County, he was the son of the late Emmett Alfred and Elvie Sue McConnell Teate. Before retirement he worked for Carry On Trailers as a welder. Mr. Teate served in the US Army Reserve and was a member of Ruhamah Pentecostal Holiness Church.

He is survived by wife: Betty Jo Clark Teate; children: Elaine (Clyde) Nichols; grandchildren: Stephen (Victoria) Nichols and Karen Price; great grandchildren: Elyssa & Emma Price and Oliver & Logan Nichols; and a sister-in-law: Diana Teate.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by son: Stanley Dowell Teate; granddaughter: Joanna Kristin Nichols; siblings: Thomas Leon Teate, Albert Lee Teate (Buna) and Mary Louise Teate.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, May 4, 2026, at the Lavonia Church of God with Rev. Lorenzo “Bobby” Davis and Rev. Adam Tripp officiating. Burial will follow in Liberty Baptist Church Cemetery in Carnesville. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register please visit stricklandfh.com.

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04/30/2026

Paul Waddell, Jr.

Paul Andrew Waddell, Jr., age 79, of Lavonia, passed away Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at his home with his family around him.

Born February 4, 1947, in Chamblee, GA, he was the son of the late Paul Andrew Waddell, Sr. and Bernice Askew Waddell. He worked, as a HVAC technician, with General Motors for more than 35 years. After retiring, he and his family moved to Lavonia, where he enjoyed woodworking and time spent with loved ones. Paul was of the Southern Baptist faith.

He is survived by his son & daughter-in-law: Patrick & Jessica Waddell; daughter & son-in-law: Kathleen & Patrick Kennedy; grandchildren: Kaleb Waddell and Austin Waddell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife: Joan Maureen (Blanke) Waddell, an infant son; son: Christopher Waddell; grandson: Andrew Kennedy; brother, Dan Waddell; and sister, Sandra Britt.

Paul was cremated in accordance with his request. The family will hold a private celebration of his life. In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital or Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register please visit stricklandfh.com.

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04/28/2026

Ronnie Rhinehart

John Ronald "Ronnie" Rhinehart, age 68, of Lavonia, passed away Monday, April 27, 2026, at his home. Born on August 19, 1957, he was the son of the late Lafayette Hall Rhinehart and Sara Elizabeth Blackmon.

Ronnie graduated high school and went on to have a fulfilling twenty plus year career at Milliken Avalon, where he worked diligently until the plant closed. Ronnie's passions included fishing, watching wrestling, listening to music, and cheering for the Braves. He loved playing board games and trivia with his family and indulging in buffet meals, especially when crablegs were on the menu. Ronnie was happiest when he was talking on the phone with family, sharing stories and laughter.

Ronnie is survived by his partner, Debbie Goff Suddeth; his children: Eric Rhinehart (Shevonne), Stephanie Mitchell (Paul), Nick Rhinehart, Chrystal Suddeth, and Christopher Suddeth; his brother Timmy Rhinehart; and his grandchildren, Aliyah Campbell, Emma Mitchell, James Rhinehart, and Luke Rhinehart. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jimmy Rhinehart.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Friday evening, May 1st from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The memorial service will be held at The Well, formerly Hartwell Church of God at 12:00 p.m. Saturday, May 2, 2026. The family invites friends and loved ones to gather and share their memories.

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register please visit stricklandfh.com.

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04/13/2026

Elouise Alewine Donald

Elouise Alewine Donald, age 84, of Lavonia, passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital.

Born on October 25, 1941, in Franklin County, Elouise was the daughter of the late John Willie Alewine and Annie Lee Harris Alewine. She worked for many years in customer service, however her most treasured job was as homemaker for her daughters and grandchildren. She loved to travel; she especially held fond memories of visiting Hawaii. Elouise was a member of Shoal Creek Baptist Church.

Elouise is survived by her daughters, Lisa Wight and Lynn Walters (Tony); her grandchildren, Jonathan Wight, Josh Walters, and Jamie Wight; her great-grandchildren, Katelyn, Braydon, Jaelyn, Marrissa, Kaylee, Knox, and Malakai; her brother, Kenneth Alewine; her sister, Johnnie Sue Faulkner; and several special nieces and nephews.

Elouise was preceded in death by her husband Ralton Donald; granddaughter, Jennifer Wight; her brothers, William Ray, Guy, Roy, and Herman Alewine, and her sisters, Carolyn Hinson and Rebecca Ryan.

The funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the funeral home chapel. Following the service, Elouise will be laid to rest at Franklin Memorial Gardens – North. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Thursday from 12:30 PM until the service.

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register please visit stricklandfh.com.

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04/13/2026

Louie Bailey

Louie Edward Bailey, age 80, of Hartwell, Georgia, passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at AnMed Health in Anderson, South Carolina. Born on July 18, 1945, in Hartwell, Louie was the son of the late Bert A. and Flossie Stone Bailey.

An active member of Shoal Creek Baptist Church, Louie served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher. Louie retired from The Springs Manufacturing as the maintenance manager. In his retirement, he found purpose as the custodian in charge of the Franklin County Recycling Center in Lavonia, where he was known for his dedication and friendly demeanor.

In addition to his parents, Louie was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Trudy Wright Bailey, and his son, Timothy Bailey, Sr. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Charles Wade Bailey, Harold Bailey, and John Walker Bailey; and his sister, Sara Fulghum.

Louie is survived by his son, James Bailey; and his cherished grandchildren, Timothy Bailey, Jr. (Haley), Amber Leard (Blake), Stephen Bailey (Sara), Jonah Bailey, Jaron Bailey, Ethan Bailey, Lauren Bailey, and Caitlin Bailey, along with twelve beloved great-grandchildren.

The funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Shoal Creek Baptist Church, where he will be laid to rest in the church cemetery. His family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 12:00 to 1:30 PM.

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register please visit stricklandfh.com.

View Louie Bailey's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/09/2026

Sondra Burtz

Sondra Grace Bandy Burtz, age 76, of Martin, passed away Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at her home.

Born August 24, 1949, in Trion, GA, she was the daughter of the late Jack and Jessie Burk Bandy. She worked in finance as a loan officer and accountant. She was an avid reader and cherished the time spent with her family. Sondra was a member of Poplar Springs Baptist Church.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William Cris Burtz, Sr.

She is survived by her children, Cris Burtz (Pamela), Renee Canady (Clint), Bryan Burtz, and Scot Burtz; grandchildren, Stormie Burtz, Kacey Canady, Austin Abbs, Clint Canady, Sabrina Davidson, Riley Canady, Nikie Powers, Josh Roach, and Megan Howell; and great grandchildren, Shayla Burtz, Cadance Ramey, Gabriel Ramey, Zeke Ramey, Ja’niyah Slaughter, Maverick Abbs, Oakley Abbs, Addie Samples, Shelby Samples, Callie Canady, and Alex Davidson.

Sondra was cremated in accordance with her request. The family will hold a private celebration of her life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society (cancer.org).

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register please visit stricklandfh.com.

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04/09/2026

Joe Harden

Joseph Austin “Joe” Harden, age 78, of Lavonia, passed away Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Rainey Hospice House in Anderson, SC. Born on April 8, 1948, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, he was the son of the late William Elmore Harden and Daisy Pauline Austin Harden.

He worked in architectural mill work and then in later years, facilities maintenance, with the Henry County Board of Education. After retiring Joe and Martha moved to Lavonia, where they quickly became an integral part of the community. A talented woodworker, Joe enjoyed sharing his creations with friends and was an active part of city festivals and events. He also had a profound love for antique cars. Joe was devout member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. Joe's faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he found joy in serving others.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Martha Jane Bivins Harden; his two sons, Matthew Justin Harden (Jessica) and Dr. J. Wesley Harden (Caroline); his grandchildren: Isabel, Abby, Will, Rachel, John, and Ellie; and many friends.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his son, Joseph “Little Joe” Harden, Jr., and his siblings, James "Jim" Harden, Polly Harden, and Jeri-Ann Halmark. He is fondly remembered by all who knew him for his kind heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering dedication to his family and community.

A service to celebrate Joe's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. The service will be officiated by Rev. John Marc Cooling and Dr. Archie Norman. Joe was cremated in accordance with his request. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions, in Joe's memory, can be made to Pleasant Hill Baptist Church.

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register please visit stricklandfh.com.

View Joe Harden's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/09/2026

Joe Harden

Joseph Austin “Joe” Harden, age 78, of Lavonia, passed away Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Rainey Hospice House in Anderson, SC. Born on April 8, 1948, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, he was the son of the late William Elmore Harden and Daisy Pauline Austin Harden.

He worked in architectural mill work and then in later years, facilities maintenance, with the Henry County Board of Education. After retiring Joe and Martha moved to Lavonia, where they quickly became an integral part of the community. A talented woodworker, Joe enjoyed sharing his creations with friends and was an active part of city festivals and events. He also had a profound love for antique cars. Joe was devout member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. Joe's faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he found joy in serving others.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Martha Jane Bivins Harden; his two sons, Matthew Justin Harden (Jessica) and Dr. J. Wesley Harden (Caroline); his grandchildren: Isabel, Abby, Will, Rachel, John, and Ellie; and many friends.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his son, Joseph “Little Joe” Harden, Jr., and his siblings, James "Jim" Harden, Polly Harden, and Jeri-Ann Halmark. He is fondly remembered by all who knew him for his kind heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering dedication to his family and community.

A service to celebrate Joe's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. The service will be officiated by Rev. John Marc Cooling and Dr. Archie Norman. Joe was cremated in accordance with his request. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions, in Joe's memory, can be made to Pleasant Hill Baptist Church.

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register please visit stricklandfh.com.

04/06/2026

Kinsley Myers

Little Miss Kinsley Myers, passed away far too soon at the tender age of two on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital.

Born on April 9, 2024, in Lavonia, Kinsley was a bright light and an endless source of joy to everyone who knew her. Daughter to Olivia Holbrooks and Christian Myers, Kinsley filled her days with laughter and love, her vibrant spirit touching all who were fortunate enough to cross her path.

Kinsley had a special love for Elmo, whose cheerful antics never failed to bring a smile to her face. She shared a magical bond with her playful puppy, Loki, and together they created beautiful memories filled with giggles and cuddles.

Kinsley is lovingly survived by her devoted parents, Olivia Holbrooks and Christian Myers; her adoring grandparents, Adam and Michelle Myers, Stasia Georges, and Jayson and Heather Holbrooks; her cherished little sister, Ryleigh Rose Myers; and a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Though Kinsley's time with us was brief, the love she spread will persist in the hearts of her family and friends. Her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the memories of all who loved her.

No formal services are planned at this time, as the family honors Kinsley's memory in their own special ways. For those who wish to leave a message of condolence or share a memory, please visit the online guest register at stricklandfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you hold your loved ones close and cherish every moment, just as Kinsley cherished her moments with those she loved.

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04/03/2026

Rev. Julian Yuille

Rev. Julian O. Yuille, age 91, of Sautee, Georgia, passed away peacefully at home on March 30, 2026.

Born on January 16, 1935, in Birmingham, Alabama, Rev. Yuille was the son of the late J. O. Yuille and Virginia Pate Yuille. He lived a life of faith, service, and dedication to his calling.

Rev. Yuille earned his Doctor of Ministry and faithfully served as a pastor at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church of Virginia for 32 & 1/2 years, as well as churches in Alabama & Maryland throughout his ministry. He touched countless lives through his preaching, leadership, and unwavering commitment to sharing the Gospel. He was a member of Helen First Baptist Church.

Outside of his ministry, Rev. Yuille found great joy in the simple, honest work of being outdoors. He loved tending his yard, splitting wood, and planting a garden each year. He also cherished time spent fishing, finding both peace and fulfillment in God’s creation. These quiet passions reflected his steady, hardworking nature and appreciation for life’s everyday blessings.

He is survived by his loving wife, Evelyn Price Yuille of Sautee, GA; his son, Brad Yuille and wife Sara; his daughter, Gina Yuille; his grandchildren, Houston Yuille and wife Chloe, and Austin Yuille; and his great-grandchildren, May, Colter, and Corrie Ann Yuille. He is also remembered fondly by extended family and many friends whose lives he influenced throughout his years of ministry.

A private graveside service was held on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Cemetery in Martin, Georgia, with Rev. John Marc Cooling officiating.

Rev. Yuille’s legacy is one of steadfast faith, humble service, and a deep love for his family and community. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register please visit stricklandfh.com.

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03/20/2026

Sue Fulghum

After a long illness. Sue or “Ms. Sue” as she was affectionately called by many, went home peacefully on March 20, 2026, to be with her Lord and savior, Jesus Christ.

Born in Franklin County and having lived there her entire life, she was the daughter of Caleb A. and Irene McGill Brooks of Lavonia.

She had worked many years ago as an inspector for a manufacturing company. Her later years were spent just enjoying the grandkids. She was a member of Lavonia Church of God where she had previously attended for many years. During the last several years of her life, when health permitted, she attended Providence Church at Shoal Creek. She loved her family and loved the Lord and served Him faithfully.

Music was also always a part of her life. As a young teenager she sang gospel music with other family members weekly on a local radio station. She served in the church as well throughout the years of her life. And, at various times, she taught children’s church and assisted with vacation Bible school classes and she loved attending bible study previously at Providence Church. She enjoyed attending gospel concerts, her grandchildren’s sporting events and sitting on her porch for long periods of time reading the Bible and memorizing scripture.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Gene Fulghum and a sister, Genieva Brooks. She is survived by daughter, Melinda Fulghum of Lavonia, son and daughter-in-law, Marty & Sandra Fulghum of Lavonia, Grandchildren: Cody & Sami Fulghum of Lavonia, Raleigh & Scarlet Fulghum of Lavonia and Cacia & Chad Davis of Jefferson and 5 great grandchildren, sister and brother-in-law, Johnnie & Eddie Fulbright of Lavonia and brother, James Brooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, a niece and nephews and several cousins.

The family would like to thank the entire staff of The Overlook Assisted Living Facility in Toccoa for going above and beyond with their friendship and care and support as well. Flowers are optional or donations may be made to Providence Church at Shoal Creek in her name.

Services will be Sunday, March 22, 2026, from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. with visitation prior to the service from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. at Providence Church at Shoal Creek with pastor Donnie Bolemon presiding. Burial is in Lavonia City Cemetery. Pallbearers: Cody Fulghum, Raleigh Fulghum, Chad Davis, Shannon Fulbright, Scottie Fulbright and Austin Berryhill.,

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register please visit stricklandfh.com.

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03/11/2026

Richard Szall

Richard Alan Szall, age 66, of Lavonia, formerly of Canterbury, CT, passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital.

Born on June 4, 1959, in Putnam, Ct, he was the son of the late Henry and Barbara Vett Szall. Before retirement he worked for the road department of the Town of Scotland, Ct. He loved hunting, fishing and Gardening.

Mr. Szall is survived by his wife: Donna Tarka Szall of Lavonia, formerly of Canterbury, CT; son: Justin Szall of Ridgefield, CT; siblings: John Szall of Morganton, NC, Karen Szall Nelson of Walla Walla, WA and Frank Szall of Florissant, CO.

Mr. Szall’s request was to be cremated and no services are planned at this time.

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register please visit stricklandfh.com.

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