Obituaries can be submitted to the editor at editor@oglethorpeecho.com

Obituaries

Obituary: George C. Cooper Sr.

George C. Cooper Sr. of Hull died June 27, 2025.  The funeral service was at 1 p.m. July 2 at Springfield Baptist Church in Comer, with Pastor Theodis Johnson, eulogist. Interment was in the Moon Cemetery.

Obituary: Jimmy Wayne Pledger

Jimmy Wayne Pledger, born on March 30, 1945, in Athens, peacefully departed this life on June 18, 2025.  He leaves behind a legacy of dedication, love for his family and service to his community.  Wayne worked for the Athens Clarke County Road Department, where he worked as a truck driver.

Obituary: Vinettia Crowley Barnes

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service was held for Vinettia "Nita" Crowley Barnes of Athens at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 28, 2025 at New Season Transformation Ministry in Hull, with Pastor Maurice G. Walker, eulogist.

Obituary: Johnny Mack ‘Gip’ Echols

Deacon Johnny Mack Echols, 95, of Lexington, died June 17, 2025.  The funeral service with Military Honors was noon Saturday, June 21 at New Bethlehem Baptist Church, with Pastor James Wymbs, eulogist.  Interment was in the church cemetery.

Obituary: Doris “Dee” Lamey

Doris “Dee” Lamey, 83, of Winterville, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025. Born on April 13, 1942, in Dekalb County, Georgia, she was the daughter of the late Charlie and Nora Lee Calloway.

Obituary: Paul “David” Edmondson

Paul “David” Edmondson passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the age of 69. He was born on Aug. 18, 1955, in Atlanta, Georgia. His childhood and young adult life were spent mostly in Crawford, Georgia, though he lived in Atlanta for nearly 10 years.

Obituary: Willie David Bolton

Willie D. Bolton of Athens died June 1, 2025. The funeral service was at 1 p.m. Thursday, June 5 at Thankful Grove Baptist Church with Pastor Michael Gresham, eulogist.  Interment was in Athens Memory Gardens.

Obituary: Melissa “Lisa” Haynes

Melissa Haynes of Athens died May 26, 2025.  The funeral service was at 1 p.m. Friday, May 30 at Cornerstone Church. Bishop David McNease was the eulogist.  Interment was in East Lawn Memorial Cemetery.