What are the opening hours?

Monday 9am - 5pm Tuesday 9am - 5pm Wednesday 9am - 5pm Thursday 9am - 5pm Friday 9am - 5pm

http://www.familiesfirstcare.com/

Families First Funeral Care & Cremation Center, 1328 Dean Forest Road, Savannah, GA (2025)

11/20/2025

John Henry Shockley

John Henry Shockley, 69, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, on November 18, 2025.

A native of Fresno, California, he was the son of the late Floyd Shockley and the late Elizabeth (Ward) Shockley, and brother to FloyAnn (Shockley) Marsh, late Charles Shockley, late Donald Shockley and Gladys (Shockley) Dial. He was the father of the late Melissa (Shockley) Julian, Katherine (Shockley) Shaw, Samuel Shockley, and John Shockley II. John was also a loving grandfather to Reahgan, Reise, Rion, Taylor, Alexandra, Samantha, Derek, Evie, Joshua, Danell, Cheyenne, John III, and Elliana.

A graduate of C.L. McLane High School, Class of 1973, John went on to earn his associate’s degree in Business Management from Fresno City College. He later enjoyed a long and fulfilling career as a Service Advisor for Busam Nissan, where building connections and helping others brought him profound purpose and joy.

Per his wishes, no funeral services will be held. His ashes will be spread at Morro Bay, California, by family and loved ones.

In lieu of flowers or other gifts, the family requests that donations be made to the Ronald McDonald House in support of families and children—a cause John believed in deeply.

11/20/2025

Robert " Bob" Geoffrey Burt

Robert Geoffrey Burt (“Bob”), 55, cartwheeled out of this realm in the early morning of Nov. 18 2025, following a quick battle with colon cancer. The second of five kids born to John F. Burt Jr. (“Jack”) and Roberta (“Bert”), he spent his youth making as much trouble for his parents as possible.

Bob was one of those annoying people who was naturally good at a wide variety of things. On Sundays in the early 80s, his dad would take him to the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where he learned how to juggle pins while riding a unicycle from the circus performers there. He had a gift for athletics, music, and art. He was a brilliant lyricist and multi-instrumentalist and had, in his own estimation, the best taste in music.

After his former physics teacher at the Old Saybrook High School told him he was his “greatest disappointment,” Bob switched his college major from engineering and graduated from UCONN with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy. He went on to become a consultant, a comic strip artist, a jazz guitarist, an advertising copywriter, a novelist, and a highly opinionated conversationalist. Of all the things at which Bob excelled, he enjoyed making people laugh the most. His hand drawn cards were thoughtful, ridiculous, and highly cherished by recipients. He was a very strong advocate for the people he loved and hated to see anyone in pain. Animals immediately gravitated to him. He wanted to save them all. He was sensitive, intuitive, and often, a real pain in the ass.

He’d want anyone reading this to know that he won a Connecticut short story contest one time in high school, one of his college philosophy papers is on permanent file in the library at UCONN, he co-wrote one of the best books on options trading, and he got to ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange. He lived a great life, full of travels and stories. He stood out and will likely be remembered by everyone who ever met him.

Bob died listening to Magical Mystery Tour and knowing that he was loved. His final words were almost, “Oh God, I hope those aren’t my last words,” but were thankfully, “I was just
dreaming.” Shortly later, as though speaking to someone only he could see, he said, “okay.”

He is survived by his four siblings: John (Kelly), Laurie Pita (Jorge), Mikey (Denise), and Liz, his cat Rusty, a niece and many nephews, and a whole slew of aunts, uncles, and cousins. He’d also want to add one last “Go Birds.”

In the time following his diagnosis, Bob was under the care of Compassus home hospice. He developed close relationships with the nurses who cared for him and looked forward to their visits. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Compassus Living Foundation, which covers the cost of care for those who need it. Everyone deserves to be loved and cared for in their final days, regardless of their ability to pay.

Compassuslivingfoundation.org

In addition, the family would like to take this opportunity to remind anyone reading this to prioritize your health and make sure that you schedule regular exams to screen for cancer. You’re worth it!

www.familiesfirstcare.com

11/20/2025

Stanley David Rowland
February 22, 1947 - November 16, 2025

Stanley David Rowland passed away Sunday, November 16, 2025 at home.

Stan was born in Waycross, Georgia to David Newman Rowland and Dollie Hale Rowland. He was raised in Savannah, attended local schools, and worked as a soil and concrete testing technician for Whitaker Laboratory in Savannah for 32 years.

He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Dollie (Gale) Rowland whom he dearly loved.

He is survived by his wife, Penny Rowland of Savannah; a cherished daughter, Sherri Holmes, her husband Scott Holmes and their son, his grandson, Braden Holmes; all of Tampa, Florida; two special daughters by marriage, Jessica Spencer and Amanda Summerlin of Lawrenceville, Georgia and their children, Hannah, Delanie, and Zachary; his sister’s children, Michelle Harmon, Roscoe Newman, and their children; maternal cousins, Betty O’Neal White of Blackshear, Georgia and husband Donnie White, and Linda O’Neal White and husband Benny of Faulkville, Georgia; and many other extended family members.

He is loved and will be missed.

Per Stan’s request, services will be private. We invite you with love to celebrate his life in your own way.

John 11:25

www.familiesfirstcare.com

11/18/2025

Cade Brian Hutcheson
September 3, 2025 - November 6, 2025

Our hearts are broken as we share the passing of our beloved baby, Cade, who left this world peacefully in the arms of family on November 6, 2025.

Though he was with us for only 2 months precious, Cade filled our lives with immeasurable love, light, and joy.

Cade will forever be cherished by parents Brian L.Hopkins & Mary C.Hutcheson; brother Braylon Hopkins; Grandparents Donna Hutcheson & Blanch Hopkins; many other family members and friends.

Cade reminded us daily of the beauty and fragility of life, and taught us the purest form of love in the shortest of times.

A private service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Cade’s memory to children’s hospital, neonatal foundation.

Though Cade’s time with us was brief, the love shared will remain forever. Sleep peacefully, our little Fuda Butt. You will always be loved, always be ours, and always be remembered.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

11/17/2025

Gumercindo Ruiz de la Torre – Pepe
1954-2025

Nació en Aguascalientes, México y fue criado en San Luis Potosí, México.

En su juventud emigró a Estados Unidos viviendo en Chicago, Illinois y trabajando en el ferrocarril, y luego en Georgia trabajando en la construcción. Ya retirado del trabajo seglar se dedicó a su arte que era el dibujo y el tallado de madera.

Su diario vivir incluía estar al aire libre y conversar con las personas. Muchos lo conocían en el centro de Savannah, Ga. Cuidaba de algunas mascotas que quería muchísimo. Además, algunos lo llegaron a conocer por sus conversaciones acerca de la Biblia, en la cual llegó a confiar más según pasaron los años.

Le sobreviven sus hermanos Alejandro Ruiz de la Torre, Elvira Ruiz de la Torre y María Ruiz de Arrieta. También le sobreviven sobrinos y sobrino-nietos que viven en Estados Unidos, México y Londres.

Gumercindo Ruiz de la Torre – Pepe
1954-2025

He was born in Aguascalientes, Mexico, and raised in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. In his youth, he emigrated to the United States, living in Chicago, Illinois, and working on the railroad, and later in Georgia, working in construction. After retiring from secular work, he dedicated himself to his art, which was drawing and wood carving.

His daily life included being outdoors and conversing with people. Many knew him in downtown Savannah, Georgia. He cared for some pets that he loved dearly. In addition, some came to know him for his conversations about the Bible, in which he came to trust more as the years passed.

He is survived by his siblings Alejandro Ruiz de la Torre, Elvira Ruiz de la Torre, and María Ruiz de Arrieta. He is also survived by nephews and great-nephews who live in the United States, Mexico, and London.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

11/17/2025

Robert Seymour Eggleston
June 14, 1932 - November 10, 2025

Robert was born in Elkhorn, Wisconsin to Herbert H. and Mable (Riggs) Eggleston. A farm boy at heart, he lived over half of his life in Wisconsin, mostly in the Whitewater area and then in Boulder Junction. He eventually moved south with his wife of over 40 years, Sandra, to Winter Garden, Florida before finally settling in Savannah, Georgia.

Robert was a self-educated Tool & Die Machinist and a skilled handyman who loved gardening, he would go on to run his own lawn care business. He enjoyed fishing on Wild Rice Lake and cherished the company of friends and family. For all who knew him, he was a kind, softspoken, and gentle man with a great sense of humor and humility.

Robert served in the Wisconsin Army National Guard from 1950 to1958.

Robert is survived by his wife, Sandra, sons, David (Shannon) Eggleston of Georgia, Dale Eggleston of Minnesota, Joel Vertrono of Florida, 8 Grandchildren, 13 Great-Grandchildren, and Nieces and Nephews.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents, daughter Cindy Marzahl, brother Kenneth, and sisters Eileen Culver, Irene Heedrick, and Lois Olds

www.familiesfirstcare.com.

11/17/2025

Audrey Clark
December 17,1932 - November 7, 2025

Audrey Clark, 92 of Savannah GA, passed away quietly on November 7, 2025. She is survived by her daughter, Sandra Lynn, 2 grandchildren, Bryan and Lindsey and numerous nieces and nephews.
Audrey was born in London, England December 17, 1932 the youngest of 5 children, born to Amy and Robert Tietz.

Audrey met her husband, Lewis A Clark (USAF) in 1954 while he was stationed in the UK. They married and she accompanied him to the states where she became a U.S. citizen. Although she was “Americanized” in many ways (for instance she loved a good cup of coffee), she never lost her beautiful accent.

Audrey thrived as a military wife, volunteering at each of the bases where Lewis was stationed. Together they had 2 children, Sandra Lynn (1957) and Joe Robert (1960-2024).

In 1969, as her husband’s retirement approached, they settled in Savannah and made it home. Audrey began to work outside of the home and eventually ended her career working at Chatham County Juvenile Court.

Audrey had many friends, including members of a British club and members of the church she last attended, St. George’s Episcopal Church.

Audrey was always loving and kind. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

A small service is planned @ Families First Funeral chapel on Dean Forest Road Thursday November 20 @ 11:00am.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

11/13/2025

Earline Louise Tillman

Earline Louise Tillman, 81, of Savannah Georgia, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on November 9th, 2025 at Memorial Hospital.

Earline was a devoted mother, a loyal friend and a kind soul whose generosity and compassion touched many lives. She retired from Kroger grocery store, where she was known for her strong work ethic and friendly spirt.

In her younger years, Earline loved to dance and was a passionate fan of rock ‘n’ roll. She adored Elvis Presley and George Jones, whose music filled her home and heart.

A single mother, Earline faced life’s challenges with strength, grace and determination. She was frugal when it came to herself, but her heart overflowed with love and generosity for her son and those she cared about. Her many quiet acts of kindness showed what a truly good person she was.

Earline was also an animal lover who could never bear to see a creature go hungry. She faithfully fed the neighborhood strays- including the raccoons- ensuring that every animal who crossed her path knew kindness.

She will deeply be missed by her family, friends and all who were lucky enough to know her.

Earline is survived by her son, Victor Dickerson; sister Josephine Brown and Elizabeth Lowrimoore; nieces, Wanda Giles, Angie Strickland, Tina Foley and Sharon Risteau, their spouses and children; nephews Ernest Lowrimoore and Willis Lowrimoore; Four Grandchildren Dylan Dickerson, Logan Dickerson, Hayden Dickerson, and Colton Dickerson.

Friends and family are invited to gather at Bloomingdale Fellowship Church at 10 am Friday November 14th for viewing and a service will be held at 12pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly request that donations be made to Bloomingdale Fellowship church in Earline’s memory.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

11/13/2025

Daisy "Jackie" Griner
August 12, 1938 - November 11, 2025

Daisy Jackie Griner left this early home for her heavenly home on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

She was born in Walthourville, Ga., on August 12, 1938 to Gertrude and Benny Jacobs. She attended high schools in Liberty County.

She married her first husband, Tommy Sheley in 1955. Together they shared 3 daughters, Cindy, Jan, and Laurie. Tommy was in the US Navy, so was away from home and his family for a great period of time. Jackie raised her girls with much love, discipline and praise. She instilled in them the values she lived by. Always see the good in everyone, treat people with kindness, love and take care of your family.

Jackie was owner and operator of Gene’s Sandwich Shop in the 1970s. She also had a catering business that everyone raved about. Jackie was a lifetime member of DeRenne Ave Church of God. And was a very active member. She loved her church and church family, and she loved Jesus. Jackie was a camp counselor for the youth at the Church of God summer camps. Lots of fun stories from her young campers.

In her later years, she lived at Bryan County Health and Rehab, where she then became known as Daisy. She carried her colorful, witty and vibrant personality with her. She loved everyone there and was loved by everyone there.

Jackie is predeceased by her parents, 2 sisters and 2 brothers, her husband Andrew “Buddy” Griner. She lived through the heartbreak of burying 2 of her beautiful daughters, Jan and Laurie.

She leaves behind to cherish and miss her love and laughter, daughter, Cindy. Granddaughter, Ashleigh Lambros and grandsons, Thomas Lambros and Danny “Rock” Colson, (Jessica), Trey Lanier, (Ashley), Shane Nelson, Asa Nelson, and granddaughter, Jacquelyn Hatmaker, (Wesley), 10 great grandchildren. Sister, Peggy Graham, brother, Kenneth Jacobs, (Cindy), 15 nieces and nephews, many great nieces and nephews.

Her family will be receiving friends between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Thursday, November 13, 2025 at Families First Funeral Care & Cremation Center, 1328 Dean Forest Road, Savannah, Georgia 31405.

A funeral service will be held 1:00 p.m. Friday, November 14, 2025 at Families First Funeral Care & Cremation Center, 1328 Dean Forest Road, Savannah, Georgia 31405 with Pastor Tim Brown officiating the service.

Interment will follow the service and take place at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 315 Greenwich Road, Savannah, Georgia 31404

www.familiesfirstcare.com

11/11/2025

Edgar Franklin “Frank” Parker
December 18, 1941 - November 10, 2025

Edgar Franklin “Frank” Parker, 83, of Bloomingdale, Georgia, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on November 6, 2025.

Born on December 18, 1941, in Leslie, Georgia, Frank was the son of Sarah and Grady Parker. He grew up in Georgia and built a life rooted in dedication to his work and deep devotion to his family.

Frank retired from the Georgia Port Authorities after 22 years of service. His career reflected his strong work ethic and commitment to supporting one of the state’s vital industries. After retirement, he continued to pursue his passions with the same focus and precision that defined his professional life.

A man of many interests, Frank was especially known for his love of fi****ms. He was an avid benchrest shooter and took great pride in loading custom ammunition. Acting as his own personal gunsmith, he found joy in the meticulous craft of maintaining and customizing fi****ms. Gun shows across various cities were a favorite pastime for him—places where he could share stories, learn new techniques, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

Frank also had a deep affection for animals and was known among those close to him for the care and attention he gave them throughout his life.

He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Frank is survived by his devoted wife, Bettie Jane Parker; his son James Parker and daughter-in-law Julia (Mason) Parker; his daughter April Lynn Parker; granddaughter Cieara (Parker) Bridges and her husband Bryan Bridges; grandson Justin Fountain; and great-grandchildren Addilyn Bridges and Colson Bridges.

He was preceded in death by his sister Norma Munn, brothers Grady Jack Parker, and Steve Parker.

Frank’s legacy lives through the generations of family who loved him dearly and through the memories shared by all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn his passing.

In lieu of a memorial service or sending flowers, you may donate to Hospice of Savannah.

www.hospiceSavannah.org/Give

www.familiesfirstcare.com

11/07/2025

William J. Kennedy Jr.
July 25, 1943 - October 30, 2025

William J. Kennedy Jr., 82, of Simsbury, Connecticut, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Born on July 25, 1943, in NY, Bill lived a life marked by dedication, service, and utmost devotion to his family on October 30, 2025

A proud New Yorker, Bill graduated from Roosevelt High School and entered the U.S. Army at age 17. He later joined the Bronx Savings Bank where he met and later married his loving wife, Maureen Stanley. He served with distinction in the New York City Police Department, rising to the rank of Lieutenant before his retirement after serving the city for 21 years. During his time as a police officer, he attended John Jay College of Criminal Justice and received his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. His years on the force reflected his deep commitment to integrity, community, and protecting others.

Bill shared sixty wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Maureen. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with laughter, love, and family. He was the devoted and proud father of William (Kelly), Mary (Tim), Nancy (Huck), and the cherished grandfather of Timothy (Michelle), Brian (Kasey), Keara, Aidan, Fiona, Liam, and James. Bill was blessed to have a great-granddaughter, Isla Grace Maher. Bill loved being with his family, which brought him bounding joy. He lit up the room with his smile, sparkling blue eyes and contagious laughter. His faith, love and humor live on in all the lives he touched.

Bill is survived by his six siblings (Carole DeMattia, Barbara Murphy, Gail D’Oca (Dennis), Thomas (Diane), Richard (Joy), John (Patricia) and brother-in-law James Stanley (Joan) who will remember him for his strength, humor, and loyalty. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Ann Kennedy, sister Lynn Angrisani, brothers-in-law Howard Murphy and Frank Angrisani, niece Jessica D’Oca, and nephews Kristopher Kennedy and Kevin Murphy. Anyone who knew Bill knew he was a car enthusiast, starting with his most prized 1966 Ford Mustang. He was an impeccable dresser and would never have been caught out with a dull shoeshine. He was always a true gentleman and a devoted family man. His motto to his closest family and friends was, “you need me, I am available 24/7/365”. It was his way of showing his love for those he cared for.

After moving to Simsbury, CT, 11 years ago, Bill enjoyed a peaceful retirement surrounded by friends and family at Hopmeadow Place (One West). Bill loved his time serving on the building board and running the coffee group for many years. He will be remembered as a man of quiet strength, unwavering faith, and deep love for those around him.

The family would like to thank the Alzheimer’s researchers at the Yale Medical Center, Meadowbrook of Granby, McLean Hospice in Simsbury, CT and Bridge Hospice in Pooler, GA and the incredible caregivers who took such amazing care of him and provided support to the family during our deepest time of need.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Tuesday, December 16th at 10 am at St. Mary’s Church in Simsbury, CT. Burial to follow at Simsbury Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Alzheimer’s Association research.

Thank you to all for honoring Bill’s life and legacy. His love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him

10/31/2025

David Taber

David Taber, beloved son, brother, cousin, uncle; passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones and fond memories. David had an old soul and a gentle, joyful spirit that touched everyone around him. He dearly loved his family and was known for his big hugs, sweet kisses, and his playful renditions of Elvis Presley songs that always made people smile.

David found joy in the simple things — bowling with his AMBUCS team, listening to his favorite music, and playing the drums for the pure fun of it. His laughter was contagious, his heart was kind, and his presence made life brighter for everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

He is survived by his loving sister, Susan Jiosa, and brother-in-law Dave Jiosa; nieces Abby Santos (Erik, Luke/Waylon/Elsie) and Teresa Doughty (Randy); nephews Tony Taber (Debbie), Albert Taber III (Sonny), Chris Vater (Brandy, Emory/Everett), and Nick Vater(Stacey, Lily); cousin Bill Bastin (Betty); and countless other family members and friends who loved him deeply and will carry his memory in their hearts forever.

He was preceded in death by his devoted parents, Albert Austin Taber II and Thelma Keegler Taber; his brother Albert (Sonny) Austin Taber III (and Ellen Taber); and his nephew Robert Taber.

David was truly one of a kind—compassionate, funny, and full of life. His love for others was steady and pure, and his memory will live on in every smile, every song, and every act of kindness shared in his honor.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to David’s beloved Savannah AMBUCS:
P.O. Box 15111, Savannah, GA 31416

www.familiesfirstcare.com

Families First Funeral Care & Cremation Center

11/20/2025

11/20/2025

11/20/2025

11/18/2025

11/17/2025

11/17/2025

11/17/2025

11/13/2025

11/13/2025

11/11/2025

11/07/2025

10/31/2025

Address

Opening Hours

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Practice

Shortcuts

Share

Category

Monday	9am - 5pm
Tuesday	9am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5pm
Friday	9am - 5pm