Families First Funeral Care & Cremation Center

Families First Funeral Care & Cremation Center Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Families First Funeral Care & Cremation Center, Funeral service & cemetery, 1328 Dean Forest Road, Savannah, GA.

For over a decade, we have been honored to provide affordable cremation and funeral services, characterized by compassion and a strong commitment to our community.

Jessica Dean6/16/1980 - 1/22/2026Jessica Dean, 45, of Savannah, GA passed away suddenly on 01/22/2026.Jessica was born a...
01/26/2026

Jessica Dean
6/16/1980 - 1/22/2026

Jessica Dean, 45, of Savannah, GA passed away suddenly on 01/22/2026.

Jessica was born and raised in Florida attending school, performing competitive gymnastics, and karate. Her daughter Alexis was born and they moved to Charleston, SC where she continued her education, graduating as a Physical Therapy Assistant. They then moved to Savannah, GA and Jaylyn was born. Jessica loved being a mother and being supportive of her daughters’ passions.

Jessica also loved her work as a physical therapy assistant at nursing homes and treated the residents like family.

Jessica was predeceased by her grandparents Bill & Lois Godfrey. She is survived by her fiancé Jose Torres, father Jim Dean, mother Sandra Burlison (Eryck), brother Westley, daughters Alexis (Dylan) and Jaylyn and grandson Derrick and other special family members.

A family service will be held at a later date.

Jessica will be forever remembered for her warm heart, bright smile, and dedication to her children.
May her soul rest in peace. 💝

www.familiesfirstcare.com

Deborah Ann Sharpfish Rock2/21/1956 - 01/17/2026On January 17, 2026 Deborah peacefully passed away, leaving behind cheri...
01/22/2026

Deborah Ann Sharpfish Rock
2/21/1956 - 01/17/2026

On January 17, 2026 Deborah peacefully passed away, leaving behind cherished memories to be forever treasured by family and friends.

Survivors include 2 sisters Cecilia (Paul) Tenoso of New Mexico and Ina McNeil of Hempstead New York; 2 daughters Anita (Charles) Hunter of Pooler GA and Lashonda (Perry) Robinson of Guyton, GA; 2 sons Nathaniel (Jordan) Griffin and Joseph (Latoya) Griffin of Rincon, GA; A very special God Son Gregory Eberlein; a best friend from childhood, Marlene Eberlein of Rapid City S.D.; 17 grandkids; 15 great grands; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Deborah Ann Sharpfish Rock was born on February 21, 1956, in Rapid City, South Dakota, to the late Collins and Annie Sharpfish. She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Michael B. Griffin; her daughter, Theresa A. Griffin; her granddaughter, Tasia Griffin; and several brothers and sisters.

Deborah was married to Lonnie J. She was a devoted homemaker who had the opportunity to travel to many places, including Alaska and Guam. No matter how far she traveled, home was always where her children were. Throughout her life, Deborah lovingly cared for many children who were not her own biologically, yet she loved them as if they were. Through this boundless love, she gained two additional sons, Mr. Ronald (Yoshika) Dixon and Mr. Daniel (Shantel) Darrien, who will miss her dearly.

The family would like to thank everyone for the thoughts, prayers, kind words and calls. There will be no service as we respect the wishes of our mother. We would like to say thank you Mom for everything as we smile, laugh and cry at the life long memories we’ve shared. May your journey be smooth and the stars guide your way. We love you.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

Alfred Douglas Johnson11/29/1945 - 01/10/2026Mr. Alfred Douglas Johnson was born on November 29, 1945, to the proud pare...
01/22/2026

Alfred Douglas Johnson
11/29/1945 - 01/10/2026

Mr. Alfred Douglas Johnson was born on November 29, 1945, to the proud parents of the late Dan Johnson and Ollie Mae Johnson. He was the firstborn of eleven children, a role he carried with strength, love, and quiet leadership throughout his life.

On January 10, 2026, Mr. Johnson peacefully departed this life with loved ones at his side.

He was preceded in death by his parents: his sisters, Mary Joyce Johnson and Edna Mae White; and his brothers, Leroy Johnson and Dan Johnson, Jr.

Mr. Johnson was educated in the public school systems of Leon County and Gadsden County, Florida. He later attended Texas Southern University, where he continued his academic pursuits.

A devoted sports enthusiast, Alfred had a special love for basketball and football. He was a loyal supporter of the Kansas City Chiefs, proudly cheering for his favorite team.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories his loving sisters: Wondolyn Myles, Patricia Brown (Joe), and Brenda Joyce Johnson, all of Tallahassee, Florida, and Patsy Blidge (John) of Savannah, Georgia; his brothers, Marlon Johnson (Prescilla) and Charles Johnson (Ann), both of Tallahassee, Florida; a dear and faithful friend, Mollie Jackson of Savannah, Georgia; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, January 31, 2026, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Smith-Williams Community Center, 2295 Pasco Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32310.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

"7"

Terry Lynn Goodlin11/23/1963 - 1/16/2026Terry Lynn Goodlin, 62 years old, passed away January 16, 2026.Born in Savannah,...
01/20/2026

Terry Lynn Goodlin
11/23/1963 - 1/16/2026

Terry Lynn Goodlin, 62 years old, passed away January 16, 2026.

Born in Savannah, GA November 23, 1963 to Ronald and Doris Goodwin.

Terry graduated from Effingham County High School. Worked for Morrisons Cafeteria for over 10 years. Terry loved to cook and feed anybody who would stop by. Fried Chicken was his specialty.

Preceded in death by both parents; sisters Helen Harris and Gennie Gibbeno.

Survivors include brother Wayne (Karen) Goodlin; sisters Sherri (Garry) Bazemore of Springfield, GA, Donna (Frank) Calma of Pinson, AL; several nieces and nephews; His beloved dog Dixie.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date by his family.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

Geneva Ashby11/25/1944 - 1/13/2026It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Geneva Lee Ashby, a beloved mot...
01/20/2026

Geneva Ashby
11/25/1944 - 1/13/2026

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Geneva Lee Ashby, a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Geneva passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 13th, 2026, at the age of 81, in her residence in Savannah, GA.

Geneva was born on Saturday, November 25th, 1944, in Madisonville, Kentucky. She was the cherished daughter of the late Arnold and Virginia Harris and was predeceased by her brother Charles Harris.

A dedicated and respected Deputy Clerk for the U.S. District Court, Geneva lived and breathed her work, earning the admiration of colleagues and the community alike. Her commitment to her profession was only surpassed by her love for her family, which she treasured above all else.

Geneva is survived by her loving daughter, Selena Mclain; her devoted son, Michael Ashby, and his wife Angela; and her dear siblings, brother Danny Harris and sister Mary Lou Hatchell. She was the proud grandmother to Tyler Ashby, Luke Mclain, Justin Ashby, and Savannah Crawford, and the adored great-grandmother of Lane Crawford and Palmer Crawford.

Geneva will be forever remembered for her warm heart, unwavering dedication, and the love she shared freely with those around her. Her legacy will continue through her family, whom she loved deeply.

The family requests that donations be made in Geneva’s memory to Compassus Hospice.

Her presence will be dearly missed, but her spirit will continue to guide and comfort those she leaves behind.

The Family will be hosting a Celebration of Life January 24, 2026 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Shelter Church 9516 E Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421. (423) 602-5554

www.familiesfirstcare.com

Linda J. Lax4/07/1950 - 1/09/2026Linda J. Lax, age 75, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026.A native of Wilmington,...
01/20/2026

Linda J. Lax
4/07/1950 - 1/09/2026

Linda J. Lax, age 75, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026.

A native of Wilmington, North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Robert
Raymond Jernigan of South Carolina and Smoner Theo Lewis of North Carolina, and
stepmother Frances P. Jernigan of North Carolina.

Linda later married her beloved husband, Jeffrey B. Lax (deceased), and together they
had one son, Dustan Jeff Lax.

She will be remembered for her kindness, strength, and devotion to her family. Linda
enjoyed spending time with loved ones and cherished the simple joys of life.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jeffrey B. Lax; her parents, Robert
Raymond Jernigan and Smoner Theo Lewis; and her sisters, Theo Gooman and Joann
Manning.

Survivors include her son, Dustan Jeff Lax; her stepmother, Frances P. Jernigan of
North Carolina; her brothers, Jay Hudson of North Carolina, Robbie Jernigan of North
Carolina, and Robert Jernigan of Texas; as well as extended family and friends who
loved her dearly.

Linda will be cremated, and a graveside memorial service will be held on Friday,
January 16th at 3:00 PM at Hillcrest Abbey West Cemetery in Savannah, Georgia.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

Christine Clark2/17/1943 - 12/31/2025Christine Clark, 82, passed away on December 31stA native of Savannah, she worked i...
01/20/2026

Christine Clark
2/17/1943 - 12/31/2025

Christine Clark, 82, passed away on December 31st
A native of Savannah, she worked in customer service at Strachan Shipping in Savannah until her retirement.
After her retirement, she loved to travel.
She was preceded in death by her sister Rose Spivey.
Survivors include 2 sons Manning Clark & Brian Clark. 8 grandchildren & many great grandchildren.
Her family will hold a private service.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

George A. Stallings, Jr.7/24/1949 - 1/3/2026We are deeply saddened to share that George A. Stallings, Jr., 76, passed aw...
01/20/2026

George A. Stallings, Jr.
7/24/1949 - 1/3/2026

We are deeply saddened to share that George A. Stallings, Jr., 76, passed away on January 3, 2026. A lifelong Savannah resident, George served in the Naval Reserves, earned a master’s in Christian Education, and devoted his life to helping others through teaching and counseling.
He loved family, friends, football, tasty food, and board games—especially chess. His gentle spirit and hearty laugh touched so many lives.
George was preceded in death by his parents, Betty and George Sr., and is survived by his sister, Julie Perry (William), and extended family and friends.
“It is comforting to know George now rests in the arms of Jesus and his beloved parents and grandparents.”
Arrangements for a memorial gathering will be announced soon.


www.familiesfirstcare.com

David Ross Jioso8/26/1955 - 12/28/2025David Ross Jiosa age 70 passed away on Sunday, December 28, 2025. His loving wife ...
01/20/2026

David Ross Jioso
8/26/1955 - 12/28/2025

David Ross Jiosa age 70 passed away on Sunday, December 28, 2025. His loving wife of 20 years Susan Jiosa, was by his side holding his hand as he made his journey home to Jesus.

He grew up in Huntington Indiana with his mom and dad Dixie and Tony Jiosa and 4 siblings before joining the Marines in 1972. He is survived by 6 children, 10 grandchildren, his sister Gina Simon, brothers Bruce and Terry Jiosa, 2 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews; etc.

Dave had so many wonderful talents and passions. First his family and then his beloved guitar, vocals and drums. Where ever he was, he was either making someone smile singing with his fabulous voice or pickin’ that guitar. He loved music and he loved making people happy. He was fun loving, funny, unselfish and kind to a fault with a contagious laugh and even more contagious love.

His last job was at Gulfstream, Savannah GA where he was in maintenance for 10 years and he retired to become a caregiver to his brother in law David Taber. These two were 2 peas in a pod and Dave always loved him like his own. They bowled together with the Savannah AMBUCS, and were always happy swimming together in the backyard pool. Drumming and playing darts was other hobbies the two would do together.

There are no words to describe the huge whole left in our hearts with the loss of this most beautiful soul. He is deeply loved and will be missed forever and a day.

Daves Celebration of Life is going to be April 18th, 10am at Bible Baptist Church in Savannah GA with lunch following. ALL family and friends are most welcome to come. Please contact Sue Jiosa via FB messenger so they can get a headcount for lunch
In lieu of flowers Donations can be made to the Cancer Society location of your choice.

Michael Thomas Brown3/25/1944 - 12/28/2025Michael Thomas Brown (81), Walthourville GA native and Savannah GA resident pa...
01/20/2026

Michael Thomas Brown
3/25/1944 - 12/28/2025

Michael Thomas Brown (81), Walthourville GA native and Savannah GA resident passed away Sunday December 28, 2025.

He was a Navy Veteran and a retired United States Postal Worker.

He is survived by his Daughter, 3 Sons and former wives.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday January 10, 2025 at 2:30PM 630 East Henry Street Savannah, Georgia 31401.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

Madison Scriven2/23/1946 - 12/28/2025Madison Scriven Jr, 79 of Savannah, Georgia passed away on Sunday December 28, 2025...
01/20/2026

Madison Scriven
2/23/1946 - 12/28/2025

Madison Scriven Jr, 79 of Savannah, Georgia passed away on Sunday December 28, 2025 surrounded by loving family.
Madison was born February 23, 1946 in Statesboro, Georgia to the parents of Madison Scriven Sr and Beatrice Mercer Scriven.
Madison graduated from Bulloch County School Systems and he spent over 20 years in the transportation service.
He was preceded in death by his father Madison Scriven Sr; mother Beatrice Mercer Scriven; brother Jacob Scriven, brother Emory Scriven; sister Eva Mae Nails.
Survived by wife Olivia Scriven; children, Madison Scriven III, Tamesha and Bernard Partridge, Antonio Scriven, Alfreda Scriven; four grandchildren, Shakiem Scriven, Martez Scriven, Tyrique Howard, Breanna Partridge; one great-grandchild, Genesis Howard; brother, Kenneth and Ida Mae Scriven; sister Jayne Ruth Sheppard, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Visitation and services will be held on Friday January 2, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Families First Funeral Care, 1328 Dean Forest Road, Savannah, GA 31405, (912)777-4473

www.familiesfirstcare.com

Tamara Summers10/15/1979 - 12/20/2025It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Tamara Summers, beloved dau...
01/20/2026

Tamara Summers
10/15/1979 - 12/20/2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Tamara Summers, beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend. Tamara passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025, at the age of 46. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Tamara was a woman full of life, laughter, and love. She had a special place in her heart for her family and friends, and she made everyone around her feel cared for and cherished. She had a deep love for her dogs and often found joy in their companionship, as well as in the music that brought her so much comfort throughout her life.

Tamara is preceded in death by her loving mother, Beatrice Harn; her cherished daughter, Star Summers; her beloved sister, Stacey Newman; her dear friend, Clifford “Buddy” Pevey; and her nephew, Adam Newman.

Tamara is survived by her daughter Chelsea Pevey (Christopher Proman); her granddaughter Camilla Rose Proman, whom she adored. She is also survived by her devoted husband, Nelson Ciarlo; her father, Gary Reynolds (Pamela Reynolds); her stepfather, Lloyd Harn; stepsister, Sherri Pevey; and her brothers Gene & Henry summers; She leaves behind her nieces, Leelynn Wright (Corey Wright) and Layla Newman; as well as her stepchildren, Joshua McClendon (Sandigale McClendon) and Jake McClendon; many other aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Tamara’s love for family extended beyond her immediate loved ones, and she touched the hearts of many friends. Her infectious spirit and kind heart made her a pillar of strength for those around her.

A memorial will be held to honor Tamara’s life and legacy 3:00 PM Wednesday December 31, 2025 at families first funeral home 1328 Dean forest Rd Savannah GA 31405.

www.familiesfirstcare.com

Address

1328 Dean Forest Road
Savannah, GA
31405

Opening Hours

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

Telephone

+19127774473

Website

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