Bernhardt Funeral Home

10/17/2026

“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭1‬-‭3‬, ‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬
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10/16/2026

The time to plan ahead is now. Let’s make a plan and help you write it out. Lock-in today’s rates and rest easy knowing that your family won’t be faced with so many decisions during their grieving process upon your passing. Our pre-need services will help to ease future burdens. Call today to schedule a time to meet with us. We will take care of you in the upmost professional and respectful way.
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10/16/2026

Earnest Thomas (Tom) Sabo, Jr.

Mr. Earnest Thomas “Tom” Sabo, Jr.

Mr. Earnest Thomas “Tom” Sabo, Jr., age 79, of Demorest, GA, formerly of Dahlonega, GA, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.

Mr. Sabo was born on October 21, 1946, in Atlanta, GA, to the late Earnest Thomas Sabo, Sr. and Sara Frances Sabo.

Mr. Sabo proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam era, serving three years before receiving an honorable discharge.

Following his military service, Mr. Sabo worked for the Road Department and the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) before pursuing a career as a construction superintendent. He combined the skills he acquired in the Army and college with the lifelong craftsmanship passed down by his grandfather and father, becoming a master carpenter. Throughout his career, he successfully oversaw the construction of numerous multi-building projects for businesses, invenstors, and private owners. One of his notable projects was the Troncalli Car Dealership in Cu***ng, GA, where he met the woman with whom he would spend the next 25 years making cherished memories and enjoying life.

Mr. Sabo enjoyed taking long drives through the countryside, watching NASCAR, cheering on his favorite football teams, and relaxing while watching old Westerns.

Mr. Sabo is survived by his loving wife, Sherrie Garnee Sabo, of Demorest, GA, formerly of Dahlonega, GA; one sister, Carol Sabo Smallman (Ralph), of Statesboro, GA; three daughters, Stephanie Sabo McNally (Eddie), of Cu***ng, GA, Sara Sabo Joiner (David), of Decatur, GA, and Samantha Sabo King (Seth), of Decatur, GA; one stepson, David Mathew Thompson, of Demorest, GA; one stepdaughter, Jacqueline Rena Milford; and his grandchildren, Kalan McNally, Ryan McNally, Shawn McNally, Mary McNally, Jack Joiner, Sam Joiner, Luke Joiner, Ryder King, Ive King, Laika Meagiddo, Courtney Voss, Heather Reed, Shawn Reed, and Andrew Reed.

Memorial services will be held on Monday, October 19, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Bernhardt Funeral Home with Military Honors by the North Georgia Honor Guard.

The family will receive friends on Monday, October 19th from 11 am until 2 pm at the funeral home.

Plants are welcome or In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in memory of Mr. Sabo to Bernhardt Funeral Home, 163 River Street, Ellijay, GA 30540, or directly to Sherrie Sabo, 162 Cabbott Cove Road, Demorest, GA 30535.

Bernhardt Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

View Earnest Thomas (Tom) Sabo, Jr.'s obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/16/2026

Arnold Howard Burton

Mr. Arnold Howard Burton, age 77, of Blue Ridge, Georgia, passed away on Thursday, October 15, 2026.

Mr. Burton was born on June 3, 1949, in Burton Bend, Kentucky, to the late Boyd Burton and Ona Clair Burton. He proudly served his country in the United States Army as a mess sergeant.

A devoted family man, Mr. Burton treasured the time he spent with his loved ones. He especially enjoyed visiting family in Kentucky, gathering for cookouts, and sharing laughter and good times with family and neighbors. He had a wonderful sense of humor and loved telling jokes, bringing smiles to those around him. He also enjoyed watching sports, with football being his favorite. His love for his family, his good-natured spirit, and the memories he created with those closest to him will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Burton was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Lois Fay Watkins Burton; his brother, Albert Burton; and his sister, Laura Jean Burton.

He is survived by his sons, Alan Burton, Daniel Burton, and Shaun Burton, all of Ellijay, Georgia; his daughter, Maeleah Guest, of Cleveland, Tennessee; his brother, Alvin Burton (Sherrie), of Ellijay, Georgia; his sister, Lona Mae Voyles (Clyde), of Ellijay, Georgia; 11 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind numerous extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

In accordance with Mr. Burton’s wishes, he will be cremated, and no services will be held.

Bernhardt Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

View Arnold Howard Burton's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/16/2026

Carolyn Denton Anderson

Carolyn Yvonne Denton Anderson

February 8, 1938 – October 12, 2026

Carolyn Yvonne Denton Anderson, lovingly known as Carol, passed away on Monday, October 12, 2026, at the age of 88.

Raised in Murphy, North Carolina, Carol later made her home in Ellijay, Georgia, where she and her beloved husband, Joe Allen Anderson, built a life centered on faith, family, and love. She was a devoted wife of 47 years, a loving mother, and a cherished grandmother.

Carol’s faith in the Lord was the foundation of her life. As an active member of First Baptist Church of Ellijay, she enjoyed singing in the senior adult choir, attending Sunday school, and participating in Bible studies. She also gave generously of her time as a member of the local hospital’s Ladies Auxiliary.

Those who knew Carol will remember her independent spirit, quick wit, and delightful sass. She was fearless and always ready for an adventure, especially if it involved a roller coaster or a thrilling ride at the fair. When her first grandson began learning to fly, she was the only family member brave enough to climb aboard the airplane with him and his instructor. Her adventurous spirit and wonderful sense of humor brought laughter and joy to those around her.

Of all the roles Carol held throughout her life, none was more precious to her than being “Nana.” Her three grandchildren, Nicolas, Peyton, and Sawyer, were among her greatest joys. She never missed an opportunity to spend time with them, creating memories that will be treasured for years to come. Even as dementia began to take its toll, her love for her grandchildren remained a beautiful constant. She continued to recognize each of them, a touching reminder of the special place they held in her heart.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joe Allen Anderson; her son, Gregory Alan Anderson; her parents, Joe Brown Denton and Nora Gladson Denton; and her sisters, Jean Simonds and Raynell Wallace.

She is survived by her son, Jeffrey Lee Anderson; her daughter, Hope Anderson Cantrell, and husband, Christopher Ron Cantrell; her daughter-in-law, Kathy Dixon Anderson; and her three beloved grandchildren, Nicolas Denton Anderson, Peyton Mackenzie Cantrell, and Sawyer Anderson Cantrell.

Carol leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith, deep devotion to family, courage, and laughter. Though she will be dearly missed, those who loved her find comfort in knowing that she is at peace in the presence of her Lord and Savior.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, October 20th, 2026 at 2:00pm at the Chapel of Bernhardt Funeral Home. Rev. Zachary Orton of Mt. Liberty Baptist Church in Murphy, North Carolina and Rev. Josh Moyer of First Baptist Church of Ellijay will be officiating. Interment will follow at Hopewell Baptist Church in Murphy, North Carolina. Serving as Pallbearers will be Steve Orton, Jody Orton, Trent Anderson, Philip Anderson, Nicolas Anderson, Sawyer Cantrell, and Josh Holmes.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 20th, 2026 from 12:00pm – 2:00pm at the funeral home before the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations go to the Children’s and Youth ministries of First Baptist Church of Ellijay.

Bernhardt Funeral Home of Ellijay, GA is in charge of these arrangements.

View Carolyn Denton Anderson's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/15/2026

🏆 We are still so incredibly honored and humbled that Bernhardt Funeral Home was ranked the #1 Funeral Home in Ellijay for 2026 by Business Rate!

For over 60 years, it has been our privilege to serve the families of our community with compassion, dignity, and care during life’s most difficult moments. This recognition would not be possible without the trust and support of the wonderful families we are blessed to serve each and every day.

From our family to yours, thank you for allowing us to walk beside you and your loved ones. We are truly grateful for this honor and remain committed to serving Gilmer County and the surrounding communities with the same dedication and heartfelt care that has guided us for generations.

❤️ Thank you for your continued prayers and support. We thank the Lord for the opportunity to serve you!

10/15/2026

Rebie Angeline Stover

Mrs. Rebie Angeline Parker Stover, age 101, passed peacefully at her home with her family by her side on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.

Rebie was born on May 29, 1925, to the late Milford Parker and Mary Jane Weaver in Gilmer County, where she lived out her life in the North Georgia mountains. She was a homemaker, a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, and a woman of great faith. Rebie loved the Lord and loved going to church more than anything, where she worshiped with family and friends. She enjoyed quilting and working in her flowers and gardening. She was a friend to all and loved spending time with her family. Besides her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of over 60 years Gus Stover. Survivors include her daughter, Lorene Clayton, Ellijay; grandchildren, Joseph Clayton (Michelle), Jeffery Clayton (Melissa), Jamie Clayton (Tracie), Ellijay, Jacob Clayton (Kayla), Woodstock, GA, great granddaughter Zoey Elizabeth Clayton several nieces and nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 17th at 2:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Bernhardt Funeral Home with Rev. Casey Richards, Rev. Robbie Chastain, Rev. Billy Cantrell, and Rev. Jerry Clayton officiating. Interment will follow in the Mt. Zion Baptist Church cemetery. Pallbearers will be Brandon Clayton, Joseph Clayton, Brady Clayton, Jeffery Clayton, Jamie Clayton, Jacob Clayton, and Frankie Brown.

The family will receive friends on Friday, October 16th from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm and again on Saturday, October 17th from 9:00 am until the service hour of 2:00 pm at the funeral home.

Food and Flowers will both be accepted in memory of Mrs. Rebie Stover.

Bernhardt Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

2 Timothy 4:7: "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."

View Rebie Angeline Stover's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/14/2026

The grieving process can be difficult, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Dig deep and find the strength you need to overcome such a difficult time. Getting up, getting ready for the day, and running a simple errand can be just what you need to lift your spirits. Most importantly, don’t give up!
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10/14/2026

Rev. Fred Joe Ralston

Rev. Fred Joe Ralston age 78 of Ellijay, GA passed away on Sunday, October 11, 2026.

Rev. Ralston was born April 11, 1948 in Gilmer County to the late, Joe Ralston and Ruth Parker Ralston. He was master electrician and a member of the Maple Grove Baptist Church in Fannin County.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Priscilla Cantrell Ralston; sons, Michael Ralston (Amanda), of Cohutta, GA, and Alan Ralston, of Ellijay, GA; sisters, Connie Jones, Cathy Aaron, and Linda Burgess, all of Ellijay, GA; 4 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held on Sunday, October 18th at 3 pm from the Chapel of Bernhardt Funeral Home with Rev. Mark Holsenback and Rev. Keith Cook officiating. Music will be by Sara Cantrell and Janice Holt. Interment will follow in the Scrougetown Baptist Church Cemetery. The following gentlemen will be serving as pallbearers, Randall Jones, Mark Holden, Roger Jones, Ivan Davis, Joseph Ralston, and Cody Kephardt.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, October 17th from 2 pm until 5 pm at the funeral home.

Flowers are accepted; however, the family respectfully asks that no food be brought to the funeral home.

Bernhardt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

View Rev. Fred Joe Ralston's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/14/2026

Lorie Lynn Justice

Mrs. Lorie Lynn Justice age 56 of Ellijay, GA passed away on Sunday, October 11, 2026.

Mrs. Justice was born July 13, 1970, in Cu***ng, GA. She is survived by her husband, Jody Justice; children, Dereck Fowler (Ablaza) and Ashley Cook (John); grandchildren, Chloe Fowler, Lukas Justice, Carson Fowler, Clarke Fowler, Bellatrix Cook and Luna Cook; father, Robert Cantrell; mother, Frances Vaughn; and brother, Rusty Maddox (Joyce).

Lorie's wishes were to be cremated. No services at this time.

Bernhardt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

View Lorie Lynn Justice's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.