Baker Funeral Home

06/17/2026

Edgar "Eddie" Walden, Jr.

Edgar “Eddie” Walden, Jr., 85, of Moultrie, passed away on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at his home surrounded by the love of his family.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 20, 2026, in the chapel of Baker Funeral Home with Reverend Blaine Walden and Reverend Jason Edwards officiating. Brice Redding, Blake Redding, Jacob Walden, Ethan Walden, Matt Lindsey, Mark Lindsey, and T.J. Robertson will serve as pallbearers.

Visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 PM on Friday, June 19, 2026, in the chapel of Baker Funeral Home.

Born November 29, 1940, in Moultrie, Georgia, to the late Edgar Irvin Walden, Sr. and Lois May Walden.

Eddie was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, farmer, and man of faith. For 45 years, Eddie dedicated his life to farming, working the land he loved and raising cotton, to***co, peanuts, corn, and livestock. His strong work ethic, perseverance, and commitment to providing for his family were evident in everything he did. Friends often described Eddie as a “good boy, hardworking Christian man,” a testament to the character and values he carried throughout his life. Eddie was ordained as a deacon at New Life Baptist Church in Adel, where he faithfully served the Lord and his church family. His faith guided his life and was reflected in the kindness, humility, and compassion he showed to others. When he wasn’t farming, he enjoyed fishing (but not on Sundays, hunting, and watching NASCAR races. Above all else, he treasured time spent with his family. He deeply loved his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and his greatest joy came from being surrounded by those he loved. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, hard work, and devotion to family. His example will continue to inspire all who knew him, and his memory will forever be cherished by his family, friends, church family, and community. Though he will be greatly missed, his loved ones find comfort in knowing that his faith has carried him home to be with the Lord. Eddie was a member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Elaine Gibson.

Eddie is survived by his wife of 59 years, Glenda E. Walden of Moultrie; children, Edward Walden and wife Susie, Deidre Redding, Blaine Walden and wife Leticia all of Moultrie; grandchildren, Amanda Walden, Jacob Walden, Hannah Lindsey and husband Mark, Brice Redding and wife Carly, Blake Redding and Ethan Walden, great-grandchildren; John B. Redding, Anna Beth Lindsey, Katie Grace Lindsey, and baby boy Redding due in September.

The family will be meeting at the home of Glenda Walden.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Baker Funeral Home.

View Edgar "Eddie" Walden, Jr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/15/2026

Stephen Bisogni

Stephen Bisogni, 64, of Moultrie, passed away Monday, June 15, 2026, at Pruitt Health Sylvester.

Arrangements entrusted to Baker Funeral Home and Crematory.

View Stephen Bisogni's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/14/2026

Carolyn Kent Croft

Carolyn Kent Croft, 78, of Moultrie, died Saturday, June 14, 2026, at her home surrounded by her family.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, in the chapel of Baker Funeral Home with Reverend Julian Griner officiating. Zane Craven, Burt Craven, Jack Kent, Josh Kent, Jody Redding, and Owen Croft will serve as pallbearers. Interment will follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

Born January 8, 1948, in Moultrie, Georgia, to the late Wheeler H. Kent and Reita Higgs Kent. Ms. Croft was a homemaker, a Believer in Christ, and was a member of Berlin Baptist Church

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Farrell Kent, Frances Kent Tillman, and Janice Kent.

Mrs. Croft is survived by her husband, Norris Croft of Moultrie; sons, Andy Croft and wife Cindy, and Brian Croft and wife Kristy all of Moultrie; daughter, Haley Croft Hammock and husband Jacob of Moultrie; grandchildren, Caitlin Langevin and husband Parker of Moultrie, Morgan Brummel and husband Parker of Kennesaw, Ava Croft, Owen Croft, Emma Croft, Coleman Croft, Gracie Hammock, and Kate Hammock all of Moultrie; great grandchild, Charlie Langevin; and siblings, Joyce Bateman and husband Joe of Albany, Judy Lairsey and husband Larry of Moultrie, Jimmy Kent and wife Sylvia of Adel, Jack Kent and wife Nancy of Moultrie, and Jerry Kent of Moultrie; and special caregiver, Glenda Yates.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Baker Funeral Home.

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06/14/2026

Diane Jackson

Diane Holton Jackson, 68, of Moultrie, died on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Colquitt Regional Medical Center.

A private memorial will be held at a later date.

Born on August 16, 1957, in Moultrie, Georgia, she was the daughter of the late Bobby Eugene Holton and Dorothy Brinson. Mrs. Jackson was a homemaker and was of the Baptist faith.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Troy Eugene “Gene” Holton.

She is survived by her husband, James Douglas Jackson of Moultrie; sons, Frank Jackson and wife Kerrie of Cecil and Terrell Jackson and wife Missy of Moultrie; grandchildren, Amanda Taylor and husband Adam, Jessica Jackson (Chris Strickland), Lauren Rotyliano and husband Mike, Elizabeth Douglas and husband Caleb, and Hannah Pearce; great grandchildren, Maverick Taylor and Arianna Jackson; sister, Maria Stone and husband Tony; and brother, Sydney Holton.

The family ask that donations be made directly to Baker Funeral Home by calling the main line 229-985-2002.

Arrangements entrusted to Baker Funeral Home and Crematory.

View Diane Jackson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/14/2026

William "Bill" Yearta

William M. (Bill) Yearta, 94, of Moultrie, passed away Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Colquitt Regional Medical Center.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 3:00 pm in the chapel of Baker Funeral Home with Reverend Dr. Hugh B. Ward and Mr. Steve Bass officiating. A private interment will follow at Westview Cemetery. John Yearta, Cliff Yearta, Scott Brown, Jody Redding, Steve Bass, and Jack Drew will serve as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the funeral home.

Born on November 24, 1931, to the late John W. Yearta and Audrey M. Yearta. He was raised in the rural farming community of Iron City in Seminole County, Georgia. Bill developed an early love for agriculture and dreamed of becoming a farmer. While he only farmed full-time for two years, his appreciation for agriculture remained a lifelong passion and ultimately became the foundation of a remarkable career dedicated to educating young people.

After serving in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958, where he was entrusted with educating and training new recruits, Bill returned home with a renewed commitment to teaching. He pursued advanced studies in education, earning a Specialist degree and beginning a distinguished career that would impact generations of students and educators.

For more than twenty years, Bill taught agricultural studies at Moultrie High School. There, he became much more than a teacher. He was a mentor, encourager, and role model to countless young men whose lives were shaped by his guidance, wisdom, and belief in their potential.

Former students often spoke of his warm smile, his encouraging words, and the sincere interest he took in their success both inside and outside the classroom.

His leadership abilities led him to positions of increasing responsibility within the Colquitt County School System. He served as Vocational Director, Assistant Superintendent, and ultimately Superintendent of Schools, where he concluded a career marked by vision, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to educational excellence. Though he held many titles throughout his career, Bill always considered himself first and foremost an educator.·

Faith was the cornerstone of his life. Baptized at Spring Creek Unity Church of God in Seminole County, he carried his Christian faith with him throughout his life. He faithfully served as a deacon at Trinity Baptist Church and sought to reflect Christ's love through service, kindness, and humility.

Bill's greatest joy was his family. He was immensely proud of his three sons and the families they built. Family gatherings brought him special happiness, and he treasured every opportunity to spend time with those he loved. His devotion to his wife, children, grandchildren, and extended family was evident in the way he cared for them, supported them, and celebrated their accomplishments.

Education was not merely Bill's profession-it was his hobby, his passion, and his calling. He believed deeply in the ability of learning to change lives and worked tirelessly to help others reach their full potential. He was a peacemaker by nature, a man who sought harmony, encouraged cooperation, and worked quietly behind the scenes to ensure the success of students, the well-being of his family, and the happiness of those around him.

Bill will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his welcoming smile, his encouraging words, and his unwavering commitment to helping others succeed. His legacy lives on through the hundreds of students he influenced, the educators he mentored, the family he cherished, and the faith he faithfully practiced throughout his life.

His was truly a life of purpose, service, and love.

Along with his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his loving wife Joye Beddingfield Yearta.

He is survived by his sons, William J. Yearta and wife, Susan of Sylvester, Stephen M. Yearta and wife, Maureen, and Carlton Yearta of Moultrie; grandchildren, John W. Yearta of Moultrie, Elizabeth Anne Uhl and husband, Douglas of Alpharetta, Mary Katheryn Rogers and husband, Ford of Athens, Clifford B. Yearta of Atlanta, and Nayah Yearta of Harrisburg, PA; great-grandchildren, Lennon Beth Wilkes Yearta, Grace Shealy Yearta of Moultrie, Rayford “Porter” Rogers, IV, Caroline Rogers of Athens, Camryn Elizabeth Uhl and Bennett Macfarlane Uhl; brother W. Lowell Yearta of Dothan, AL.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Colquitt Regional Medical Foundation in Mr. Yearta’s memory.

Arrangements entrusted to Baker Funeral Home & Crematory.

View William "Bill" Yearta's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/14/2026

Carolyn Dorminey Norman

Carolyn Dorminey Norman, 82, of Norman Park, Georgia, passed away on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at her residence.

Born on April 17, 1944, in Colquitt County to the late Willis Dorminey and Hattie Tillman Dorminey. She worked as a nurse at Adel Nursing Home for many years before her retirement and was known for her caring nature and commitment to helping others.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 11:00 am in the chapel of Baker Funeral Home with the Reverend A. J. Hall and Reverend Julian Griner officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service starting at 10:00 am.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her grandson, Tyler Norman; son-in-law, Michael R. Booth; sisters, Flossie Dorminey and Linda Folsom; brothers, Melvis Dorminey, William Dorminey, James Dorminey, and Felton Dorminey.

Mrs. Norman is survived by her husband, Benny R. Norman, Sr. of Norman Park; sons, Benny R. Norman, Jr. and wife Courtney of Moultrie and Tony L. Norman of Bainbridge, GA; daughter, Marsha N. Booth of Norman Park; grandchildren, Morgan Salsman and husband, Shawn, Brooke Perales and husband Jesus, Hanna Norman, Sierra Norman, Jenna Norman, Cheyanne Norman, and Tony Lynn Norman, Jr.; great-grandchildren, Elias Perales, Theo Parales, and Luca Parales; brother, Raymond Dorminey and wife Kay; sisters, Mary Lou Castleberry, Hollie Dean Shaw, Bessie Hall and husband A.J., brother-in-law, Tommy Folsom.

Arrangements entrusted to Baker Funeral Home and Crematory.

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06/11/2026

🎉 Nominations Are Now Open for Best of Moultrie 2026! 🎉

It's time to recognize the businesses, organizations, and people who make Moultrie and Colquitt County such a great place to live, work, and shop!

🗳️ Nomination Period: June 10 – June 30
🏆 Top Three Voting: July 29 – August 7
🎉 Winners Announced: August 26

Do you have a favorite local business, restaurant, service provider, teacher, healthcare professional, or community leader? Now is your chance to nominate them for Best of Moultrie 2026!

Help us celebrate the very best our community has to offer by submitting your nominations today.

👉 Nominate your favorites here: moultrieobserver.com/contests/best

06/10/2026

Linda Bray Holloway

Linda Bray Holloway, 75, passed away Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at her residence.

Per Ms. Holloway wishes, no formal services will be held.

She was born on July 4, 1950, in Rapid City, South Dakota. She worked at Walmart for 22 years as a greeter until her retirement in 2020.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy Leon Holloway.

She is survived by her sister, Wanda Bray Allmond of Pavo; sister-in-law, Alice Katherine Holloway of Moultrie; and several nieces and nephews.

Arrangements entrusted to Baker Funeral Home and Crematory

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06/08/2026

Darin Eugene Merritt

Darin Eugene Merritt, 59, of Moultrie, Georgia, passed away at his home on Monday, June 8, 2026.

The family will receive friends on Friday, June 12, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Baker Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held in the chapel of Baker Funeral Home on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Born on January 17, 1967, Darin was the son of Lynn Mercer and Donnie Merritt. He proudly served in the United States Army and attended Brewton-Parker College. After many years of dedicated service, he retired from Wayne Sanderson in Moultrie in 2025.

Darin was known for his unwavering work ethic, determination, and persistence. He believed in hard work, leading by example, and treating others with respect. He never met a stranger and had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome. God blessed him with the gifts of leadership and administration, and he faithfully used those gifts throughout his life to guide, encourage, and serve others.

A natural-born leader, Darin possessed the courage, integrity, wisdom, and compassion that inspired confidence in everyone around him. Family, friends, and coworkers often turned to him for guidance, advice, and support. He had a unique ability to bring people together and help them see a path forward, no matter the circumstances.

Darin was a devoted Georgia Bulldogs fan who enjoyed working in his yard, helping others, and making friends wherever he went. Above all, he loved his family. He shared 37 years of marriage with his loving wife, Jennifer Hamner Merritt. His greatest joy came from spending time with the people he loved, especially his grandchildren, who gave him one of his most treasured titles—“Pops.” It was a name he wore proudly and a role he cherished deeply. Whether offering encouragement, sharing stories, or simply being present, Pops created memories and a legacy of love that will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Darin is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Jennifer Hamner Merritt; his mother, Lynn Mercer; his father, Donnie Merritt; his sons, Stephen Zachary Merritt and wife Leah, and Jacob Andruw Merritt and wife Anna; his grandchildren, Harper Lee Merritt, Lennon Elizabeth Merritt, Preslee Ann Merritt, Davis Briggs Merritt, and McKinley Hemmingway.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Scott Merritt.

Darin’s legacy of faith, leadership, hard work, and love for his family will continue through the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Baker Funeral Home and Crematory has been entrusted with the arrangements.

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06/06/2026

Harold “Pops” Hines

Harold “Pops” Hines, 83, of Moultrie, passed away on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at his residence.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, in the chapel of Baker Funeral Home with Joey Sanders, Zack Hines, and Jennifer Stanaland officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour before the service from 1:00-2:00 pm.

Mr. Hines was born on November 9, 1942, in Brooks County, Georgia, to the late W.J. Hines and Annamaria Hart Hines. He spent many years as a dedicated truck driver with SAPP Trucking before retiring. Affectionately known as "Pops" by those who loved him, he enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, especially watching wrestling and cheering on his favorite football teams, the Georgia Bulldogs and Florida State Seminoles. Above all, he treasured time spent with family and friends. Mr. Hines was of the Christian faith.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Sarah Musselwhite Hines; son, Lloyd Hines; son-in-law, Ronnie R. Davis; siblings, Vernon Hines, Mildred Hines, Hazel Moody, Jean Howard, Aurulia Martin, and Percy Hines.

He is survived by his daughters, Beverly Ann Davis and Catherine Hines; grandchildren, Jennifer Stanaland and husband Michael, Terri Davis, Jeremy K. Davis, and Zachary Hines and wife Cyrena; great-grandchildren, Ameila Hines and Olivia Hines; and his special fur baby, Chipper.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Moultrie-Colquitt County Humane Society in memory of Mr. Hines.

Arrangements entrusted to Baker Funeral Home and Crematory.

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