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Families First Funeral Care & Cremation Center, 1328 Dean Forest Road, Savannah, GA (2026)

03/11/2026

Peter Michael Anderer
November 5, 1965 - March 6, 2026

It is with a saddened and heavy heart that we announce the sudden passing of Peter M. Anderer on Friday, March 6, 2026, at the age of 60. Peter was born on November 5, 1965 in Waltham, Massachusetts, where he grew up until he eventually moved to Savannah, Georgia approximately 13 years ago and resided in Port Wentworth, Georgia for the past 4 years.

Peter is predeceased by his beloved parents, Paul Charles Anderer and Caroline (Dionisio) Anderer, whose values and love profoundly shaped his life. He carried their legacy forward, exemplifying kindness, integrity, and a deep appreciation for life’s simple joys. Peter is survived by his soul mate, Patricia Bourque and her daughter, Crystal Sousa; his brother, Ricky Charles Anderer and his fiance, Kelly Callahan; along with his two remaining aunts, Claire Fossit and Delores Woll; and numerous cousins.

Peter graduated from Waltham Vocational High School in 1984 with a degree in Auto Body Repair and Refinishing. In 2011 he earned his Aviation Mechanic Certificate at East Coast Aero Tech. After employment at Boeing and Piper he has been employed with Gulfstream until his untimely passing on Friday.

Peter loved his family, the ocean, wildlife, even making a friend with “Fluffy” the alligator outside of his work place. He had many passions in life, Smackdown and Raw every Friday and Monday nights, the Navy, Air Force, history, crime shows, super heroes, Snoopy and the New England Patriots, along with his Can-Am Spyder trike, Ram truck and lighting up the inside and outside of his house and vehicles, being a lobsterman with his brother Ricky and he loved his country.

Peter was a kind, loving and caring person who helped people and stood up for anyone in need and took his job building aircraft very seriously. He was a pillar of strength and kindness and fiercely loyal to all who knew him. Those who had the privilege of knowing him will remember his infectious laughter and his incredible sense of humor often voicing commentary for his two cats.

Peter’s life is a testimony to the impact one person can have on many lives. All who knew him mourn the loss of such a remarkable individual , while also celebrating the wonderful memories he leaves behind.

Arrangements for Peter have been entrusted to Families First Funeral Care & Cremation Center. His wake will be on Friday, March 13, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. While we grieve his loss, we also take this time to honor and remember the incredible person he was – a friend, a confidant, and an inspiration.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, his most important charity, helping children.

Peter will be dearly missed, but his legacy of love and kindness and most importantly, his understanding, will continue to inspire us all. As we say goodbye to a cherished soul, we hold on to the lasting impact he has made on our lives and memories that will remain in our hearts forever.

A church service will be announced soon. Burial will take place in Waltham, Massachusetts at Calvery Cemetery, with his parents, in the near future.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

03/11/2026

Winton Earl Gantt Jr.
May 20, 1944 - March 9, 2026

Winton Earl Gantt Jr. passed away on March 9, 2026 at his home surrounded by love and comfort.

Earl was born May 20, 1944 in Savannah to his loving parents Winton Earl Gantt Sr. and Mary Wallace Gantt.

Earl was survived by his three children Glenn Winton Gantt (Annette), James Brian Gantt, and Cheryl Gantt Bryant (Raymond); four grandchildren Michael Duane Purvis Jr., Brittany Purvis Dellorco, Alex Walker (Ashley), and Alicia Ragoobar (Lloyd); four great grandchildren Preston, Isabella, Ollen, and Hayden; one loving and faithful companion, his grand dog Lucy.

Earl was an only child but his childhood home was filled with cousins he loved. Joan Earnhart was like a sister to him. Earl also had a lifelong friend Pat Nelson that he loved as a brother.

Earl loved God, his family and his country. Earl was of the Baptist faith and sang in the choir in his younger years. He graduated from Savannah High School. In High School he was in the ROTC, completed basic training and later joined the 165th Air National Guard. He worked as a dental technician and was the owner of Gantt Dental Lab for more than forty years.

Earl loved life and enjoyed many activities. In his younger years, he had a passion for drag racing, playing basketball and softball; proudly bringing home many trophies. Later, he occasionally coached his son’s baseball teams. Earl loved the water and spending time swimming and fishing, especially shark fishing. He was also an avid fi****ms enthusiast.

In his retirement years, Earl could often be found at Thunderbolt Bait House (formerly Adam’s Bait House), where he enjoyed helping his grandson, Michael. Many people loved stopping in not only to buy bait, but also to share a good conversation. More often than not, Earl could be found sitting on the porch of the bait house, soaking up the sunshine which he truly loved.

Earl was a strong and brave man in the eyes of his family. All three of his children would agree that their father was their lifelong hero. Throughout his life, and especially in his final days, Earl’s faith remained unshakable, steady, strong, and never wavering. He was a Christian example to all who knew him. Earl will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

A Graveside Service will be held Friday March 13, 2026 at 10:30 AM at Bonaventure Cemetery 330 Bonaventure Road Savannah, GA 31404.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

03/11/2026

Barry Padgett

Barry Padgett 65, born in Savannah, GA passed away after a long illness on March 6, 2026.

He was the son of Vernon “Buddy” Padgett and Betty Sasser Padgett.

From a young age Barry was a talented young athlete. He once pitched a no hitter right handed and in the same week pitched a no hitter left handed. He enjoyed the outdoors, often going fishing and could always make you laugh with his funny personality and sharp wit.

Barry was preceded in death by his parents Vernon “Buddy” Padgett and Betty Sasser Padgett.

Barry is survived by his four children, Amber Padgett, Hunter Padgett, Travis (Sarah) Padgett, and Shelby Padgett; grandchildren Jayden, Madeline, Quinn, Aubrey June “AJ”, Cole, and Rosie Glenn; brothers Buddy Padgett Jr. (Susie), and Guy Padgett; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The Family is deeply grateful to cousin Donna Padgett for the kindness, support, and dedication that she provided during Barry’s final days.

A Memorial Service will be held for Barry Saturday March 14, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Families First Funeral Care and Cremation Center 1328 Dean Forest Road Savannah, GA 31405.

Barry’s humor and memorable personality will not be forgotten by those who knew him.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

03/09/2026

Royal Van Morris

With deep sadness and heavy hearts, we share the passing of Royal Van Morris, age 60, of Pooler, Georgia, who departed this life on December 25, 2025.

Royal was born in New York City and grew up in Akron, Ohio, where he spent most of his adult life before moving to Georgia after his retirement. He was a cherished member of his community and a man whose life was defined by service. Royal proudly served as a firefighter/paramedic with the Akron Fire Department until his retirement, dedicating his career to protecting and helping others in times of need. He also honorably served his country in the United States Air Force. Through his courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to others, Royal touched countless lives. His legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and his memory will continue to inspire acts of bravery, kindness, and service.

He was preceded in death by his father, John Russell Morris, Sr.

Royal leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother, Ernestine Young Morris; his children, Jordan M. Morris and Quienna Mills; brothers, John Morris, Jr. and Shawn McGoodwin Morris; sister, Tara J. Morris.

Our family extends heartfelt thanks for the overwhelming love and support during this difficult time. We ask for continued thoughts and prayers as we grieve this profound loss. Please keep the Morris family in your prayers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fisher House of Charleston, an organization that provides housing for veterans and their families who need long term lodging while receiving medical care in Charleston. Fisher House of Charleston, 150 Wentworth Street, Charleston, SC 29401

https://www.fisherhouse.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/

www.familiesfirstcare.com

03/09/2026

Lucile Harris Gaskins Jenks

Lucile Harris Gaskins Jenks, 83, passed away February 10, 2026 at 10:05am.

She is the daughter of the late Kellie Futch and Rosa Lee Wade Futch. She was the oldest of six siblings.

Arrangements were handled by Families First Funeral Care and Cremation Center.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

03/07/2026

Otis Andrew Holloway
May 23, 1948 - January 15, 1948

Otis Andrew Holloway, age 77, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on January 15, 2026, after a prolonged illness. Born in Paterson, New Jersey, on May 23, 1948, he was the son of William Fred Holloway and Ruby Estelle Rucker Holloway.

Otis was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Elizabeth (“Lib”); and his brothers, Carl, Zeno, and Julian. He is survived by his children, James (Tammy) and Jennifer Holloway; their mother, Brenda (Jones) Holloway; his grandchildren, Tyler Ammons (Adriana), Hunter Edens (Emilee), Sara Holloway, and Gaby Holloway; and one greatgrandson, Abel Lee Ammons. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and many dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Otis grew up in Dacusville, South Carolina, and graduated from Dacusville High School. He proudly served in the United States Army and was a Vietnam veteran, carrying the strength and resilience of that service throughout his life. After his military service, he earned a degree in Computer Programming from Greenville Technical College and spent his career working as a computer operator and programmer, bringing dedication and skill to every role he held.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Otis excelled in athletics and proudly won high school trophies in baseball. He enjoyed playing golf and was an avid Carolina Gamecocks fan, cheering on his team with unwavering loyalty. His love of music was equally strong—he sang in the church choir and appreciated many genres throughout his life.

Otis also devoted himself to ministry as a minister in the Church of God. His faith shaped his life, his service, and the way he cared for others. He was a charter member of Full Life Christian Fellowship (formerly Dacusville Church of God) in Easley, South Carolina.

A celebration of life service will be held on May 23, 2026, at Full Life Christian Fellowship in Easley, South Carolina. Though he had lived in Savannah, Georgia, for many years at the time of his passing, his roots and his heart remained deeply connected to his home community.

Otis will be remembered for his faith, his kindness, his humor, and the love he shared so freely with those around him.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

03/07/2026

Carol Stokes Wilmot
1946 – 2026

Ms. Carol Faye Stokes Wilmot, 79, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, in Savannah, Georgia. Born on March 6, 1946, in Savannah, she spent her entire life surrounded by the love of family and friends in the city she cherished.

Carol devoted much of her life to being a loving wife and a stay-at-home mother to her three daughters. Later in life, she retired from Rexnord in Savannah. Her family was her greatest joy, and she treasured every moment spent with them. Her grandchildren fondly remember her as the perfect Grandma—a role she embraced with endless love and laughter.

She is survived by her loving partner, Doug Cartee, her big brother, Bervin Franklin Stokes Jr.; her three daughters: Tina Fennell Nilsson (Merle), Wendi Fennell (Ted), and Heidi Stokes (Glenn); nine grandchildren: Brandon Miller, Brittney Watts, Brooke Fields (Phillip), Christopher Smith, Amber Smith, Dillon Smith (Brooke), Cameron Smith (Jenna), Jamey Stokes (Cassie), and Brinley Stokes; as well as thirteen great-grandchildren, Jaxson Miller, Khylha Watts, Preston Watts, Londyn Evans. Tajy Fields, Landri Fields, Rylan Fields, Blake Smith, Bailey Smith, Luke Oleski, Levi Smith, Nora Smith, and Allie Smith.

She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

Carol was preceded in death by her loving husband, Ralph Larry Wilmot Sr.; her parents, Bervin Franklin “Buck” Stokes and Aleene Rahn Stokes; her sister Robin Anne Stokes.

Known for her playful sense of humor and love of games like Bingo, Yahtzee, Spades, and Rummy. Carol brought joy to every gathering. Her infectious laughter and free spirit touched everyone she met. Above all else, she found immense fulfillment in being a wife to Ralph, a mother to Tina, Wendi, and Heidi, and a Grandma—affectionately known as Mia—to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 14, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at 484 Roebling Rd. Bloomingdale, GA. where family and friends are invited to share food, fellowship, and memories in honor of Carol. Please bring a dish or dessert to share. This event will be indoor/outdoor; casual attire is encouraged.

Carol’s warmth and vibrant spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May the memory of her laughter bring comfort to those who loved her most.

03/04/2026

Brian "Scott" Wilson Sr.

Commerce – Brian “Scott” Wilson Sr, 57, of Ila, GA died February 19, 2026. A native of Jackson County he is the son of Johnny Wilson, Commerce, GA and the late Sharon Kidd Wilson. He was full of humor, a dedicated machine shop worker who loved god, his kids, grandkids, family, friends, hunting and fishing. He is preceded in death by his mother, Sharon Kidd Wilson and a sister, Melissa Dawn Wilson. Who we take comfort in knowing welcomed him with open arms.

Survivors in addition to his father, Johnny Wilson (Brenda), include his dog, Willie; two daughters, Amberley Wilson of Lexington, Ga, Jackie Wilson of Vidalia, Ga; a son, Scottie Wilson of Hull, Ga; brothers, Johnny Wilson, Jr (Missy) of Commerce, Ga, Matt Wilson of Comer, Ga; one niece, Kayla Wilson of Commerce, Ga; three great nieces, KayDence Leachman, Kylee Leachman, Blair Wilson; one great nephew, Karson Stiwinter; one nephew, Tad Wilson of Commerce, Ga; three granddaughters, Jordyn Huff, Justyce Huff and Jorgia Huff; five grandsons, Aubrey Williams, Copelan Williams, Ryder Wilson, Tristan Fowler and Jacob Wray. As well as many cousins and dear friends who loved and cherished him.

May his memory always be a blessing. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

The memorial service celebrating the life of Scott, will be held on Saturday March 14th, 2026 at 2:00pm. The location will be at, The Little Country Church, 1151 old Airport Rd, Commerce, Ga 30530. A reception with a light lunch will follow the service in the church fellowship hall.

In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to, The Little Country Church, in memory of, Scott Wilson Sr.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

03/02/2026

Dr. Lawerence Kelly Waters
May 25, 1957 - February 27, 2026

Lawrence Kelly Waters, Ph.D., 68, of Savannah, GA, passed away on February 27, 2026 due to dementia.

Kelly was born on May 25, 1957 in Savannah to Eugene and LuJeanne Waters and graduated from Windsor Forest High School in 1975.
Due to a back injury after 18 years in construction, Kelly returned to school – graduating from Armstrong Atlantic State University in 1995 with undergraduate degrees in Mathematics and Computer Science. He then pursued his Masters and Doctoral degrees in Mathematics from Clemson University, graduating 1997 and 2003 respectfully.

Kelly then worked as a Mathematics Professor for USC Upstate University in Spartanburg, South Carolina where he shared his love and passion for the world of mathematics and programming with anyone who listened. In 2013, Kelly experienced a massive stroke; ending his career and moving him back to Savannah.

He was known for his unique, dry humor and inquisitive mindset and enjoyed creating and listening to music, riding his motorcycle, and watching sci-fi movies and TV shows with his family, reading sci-fi books and countless math and computer programming related books; and as a Jesus Christ follower, he was an avid believer in the Bible and in finding out the truth about life.
Kelly is survived by his children Misty Petak (Rod), Hope Lam (Gavin), and Brittany Heurter (Chad); grandson Liam Lam; siblings Tracy Waters, Jr. (Gianna) and Teresa Maines; nieces and nephews Justin “JD” Maines (Prina), Jesse Waters, Tiffany Lance (Greg), and Miranda Waters (Raymond); grand nieces and nephews and many beloved extended family members.

He was preceded in death by parents Tracy Eugene Waters Sr. and Bessie LuJeanne Waters and sister-in-law Shirley Waters.
Following cremation, a celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 3pm at First Free Will Baptist Church at 5210 Skidaway Road, Savannah, Georgia.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to his beloved Habersham Branch YMCA that gave him an outlet for achieving remarkable goals during the 13 years following his stroke or Georgia Southern University, Armstrong Campus in Savannah, Georgia where he started the path toward a career that brought him so much satisfaction and fulfillment.

Dad’s corny jokes may be gone from our card table, but unfortunately, we’ve all inherited them.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

03/02/2026

Eartha B. Tartt
July 22, 1938 - February 17, 2026

Eartha B. Tartt was born on July 22, 1938 in Livingston Alabama to the late Evan’s and Alberta Tartt, who raised her with love, strength and unwavering support. Eartha B. Tartt also known as Bee to her family & GiGi to her grandchildren and making each grandchild and great grandchild. Eartha was the heart to our family. A woman of great strength, endless love and unwavering faith. She had a remarkable way of making each grandchild and great grandchild feel uniquely loved and deeply understood. She created memories that will live in our hearts forever.

Eartha attended schools where she excelled academically and received her Associates degree. A hardworking and ambitious individual, she pursued a career in Social Work among other jobs until she retired. Her dedication and passion left a lasting impact on colleagues and clients. She was deeply committed to her work. She embraced every experience with enthusiasm and love. Eartha was a gift to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Beyond her professional achievements, Eartha was a woman of many passions. She found joy in going to church, sewing, crocheting, cooking, or simply spending time with family. She was always eager to explore new destinations whether it was going to the beach or a road trip to visit other family.

More than anything, Eartha B. was devoted to her children, family and friends. She cherished her relationships and was a source of strength, laughter, and unwavering support to those who needed her. Her love for her close family members and children had no boundaries. She took great pride in being a loyal mother, sister, grandmother and friends.

Eartha was preceded in death by one daughter Detra Maria Tartt; five sisters, Mildred Rainey, Anita Smith, Annie Fellows, Birdia Thomas and Ora D. Mack; three brothers Gray Tartt, June Tart, and Thomas Tartt whom we take comfort in knowing welcomed her with open arms.

She is survived by her two sisters Lila Jean Tartt and Viola Jones; children Dawn Tart, Gregory Tartt, and Gary Tartt; grandchildren Ashley Tartt, Robert Tartt, Maurice Tartt, Kieara Tartt, Gregory Tartt Jr., Katon Tartt, and Octavia Tartt; great grandchildren Ha’Najz Starling, and many more as well as many loving cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends who all loved and cherished her.

Her spirit will live on in everyone of us, every shared story, her legacy is not only in the family she raised but in the traditions she passed down the lessons she instilled and love she gave so freely.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

03/02/2026

Brandy Smith
May 28, 1982- January 26, 2026

Brandy Marie Smith, age 43, passed away on January 26, 2026.

A native of Savannah, Georgia, Brandy was the beloved daughter of Michael S. and Brenda L. Corl Smith of East Bridgewater, Massachusetts.

Born in Cortland, New York, Brandy spent her early years living in Lancaster, Martinsburg, and Newburg, Pennsylvania, before her family eventually settled in East Bridgewater, Massachusetts. She lived a rich, full, and beautiful life, marked by fierce independence, creativity, and a deep love for others.

Brandy found joy in many forms of expression. She loved working with words, creating beautiful paintings, and preparing delicious meals to share with friends and family. A true people-person, she spent most of her life working in hospitality services, where her warmth and generosity touched many lives.

Though she had no children of her own, Brandy was a devoted “Mom” to her rescue dogs—Tigger, a stately Greyhound who has since passed, and her beloved Cozi, a beautiful Cane Corso. She was a delightful daughter who brought her parents immeasurable joy, a fun and caring big sister, an adoring aunt, and a loving stepmother. Over the years, she formed deep and lasting friendships, and many of those friends became like family.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Robinson Charles Corl of Preble, New York, and Anita Jean McBride Corl of Preble, New York.

Brandy leaves behind her siblings: Andrew S. Smith (MaryBeth Smith) of Raeford, North Carolina; Elizabeth S. Smith Souza (George Souza) of Halifax, Massachusetts; and Rebekah S. Smith of East Bridgewater, Massachusetts. She was a cherished aunt to Ruby E. R. Smith, Felicia Smith, Jackson Souza, and Charlotte Souza, and a loving stepmother to Andreanna and Nikki Vena of Brockton, Massachusetts.

The family will host a celebration of Brandy’s life in Massachusetts at a later date. Details will be shared once arrangements are finalized.

Because of Brandy’s health conditions, she was unable to obtain life insurance. In lieu of flowers, friends have established a GoFundMe page to help offset funeral and legal expenses. Donations may be made at:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-brenda-mike-after-tragic-loss

www.familiesfirstcare.com

03/02/2026

Daniella C. Ledgester
October 5, 1934 - February 12, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Daniella C. Ledgester, a beloved mother, friend, and dedicated caregiver. Daniella passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 12th, 2026, at the age of 91, in her home in Rincon, Georgia.

Born on Friday, October 5th, 1934, in the beautiful island of Jamaica, West Indies, Daniella brought warmth and compassion to everyone she encountered.

Daniella dedicated her life to caring for others, working as a Nurses Aide at Effingham Hospital. Her gentle touch and kind spirit left a lasting impact on her patients and colleagues alike. Her commitment to helping others was a testament to her generous heart and unwavering dedication.

Daniella is survived by her loving son, Herbert Harris, of Oyster Bay, New York.

No services are planned at this time.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Families First Funeral Care & Cremation Center, who have provided compassionate support during this difficult time.

Daniella’s legacy of love, kindness, and service will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those she touched.

May she rest in peace.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

Families First Funeral Care & Cremation Center

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