Debra Ann Strickland
Jesup—Debra Ann Strickland, 64, died peacefully on July 24, 2021, at home, surrounded by her loving family under the care of Hospice of South Georgia Inc.
A native and lifelong resident of Jesup, she was born on Dec. 5, 1956, to the late Bobby and Anna Jane Smith Brooker. She worked more than 20 years at McDonald’s in the drive-through and then took a job with Dixie Outfitters, inspecting prints for T-shirts, where she worked 20 more years before retirement.
She enjoyed reading, gardening, cooking and spending time with her beloved family, including her fur babies.
Survivors include her husband of 44 years, Shannon Strickland of Jesup; a daughter, Bobbie Strickland of Jesup; a granddaughter, Gabbie Hammond of Jesup; special nieces that were like daughters, April (Bryant) Sawyer and Bracee (David) Ellington all of Jesup; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and numerous other extended-family members.
Funeral services were held July 26 at Howard & Jones Funeral Home in Jesup.
Interment will be private.
Howard-Jones Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Donald “Don” Jerry Thornton
Screven—Donald “Don” Jerry Thornton, 66, of Screven died July 23, 2021.
The Wayne County native was a retired farmer. He liked to do the mechanical work on most motors, including hot rods and tractors. He loved all kinds of animals but especially dogs. He was compassionate, patient and humorous, his family said. His son called him a “salt of the Earth” kind of person who modeled love at all times.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Carmen Thornton; his parents, Colon and Evelyn Thornton; and his sister, Ree Hubbard.
Survivors include his son, Donavan Thornton of Screven; four sisters, Susan Epley of Screven, Sandra Ring of Helena, Montana, and Linda Strickland and Beth Thornton, both of Jesup; brothers, Ricky Thornton and Vance Thornton, both of Screven; and several nieces and nephews.
Celebration-of-life services were held July 25 at Big Creek Primitive Baptist Church Social Hall with Elder Jerry Lightsey officiating. Private family burial was in Big Creek Cemetery.
Rinehart and Sons Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.