Tattnall County Living - 2024 by With You In Mind Publications

A LEGACY OF LAW AND THE STEADFAST LOVE OF THE DUBBERLYS

love

Alex and Donna Tootle are among the few who have fought to keep a piece of history alive in restoring one of the county’s historic lodgings.

14 Sisters on the Fly

Allison Cobb making fantastic memories with Sisters on the Fly.

48 More Than A Coach

For Coach Quaysean Davis, basketball is more than just the sport he coaches at the local high school. Basketball is a way to help boys grow into men.

64 A Legacy of Law and Love

Dan Dubberly and wife Betty’s steadfast love for each other has been the hallmark of their marriage as well as the recognition of their individual strengths that complement each other.

A WOMAN’S WORK

It’s no secret that a successful career in agriculture requires hard work, long days, and grit. These qualities are highly evident in Tina Collins, owner of Vidalia Sweet Produce, LLC.

102 The Close of a Career

After 45 years, David and Holly Baxter look back over at Baxter’s Paint & Body Shop, Inc., and reflect on the customers and friends made along the way.

130 A Friendship for Life

Evan Fountain and Blake Norman’s competitive friendship leads to medical careers.

TOur newest grandchild, Walker, arrived on August 24, 2023! for around 8 or more years our daughter has awaited the day she could become a mother.

We have had the honor of watching our middle daughter, nikki, demonstrate an ongoing heart of gratitude while many years of waiting for this season. she continued to praise and thank God for her life and his goodness in every detail of her life. she looked for it in the tiniest detail and always managed to find it!

As her parents, we are beyond grateful for her ongoing example of always choosing to live a life of praise; even in the waiting, to the one who is truly Worthy!!!

Psalm 113

With thankful hearts,

Jay and Patti Martin

sales: (912) 654-3045

Email: jay@wyimpublications.com withyouinmindpublications.com

Tattnall County

shelby

sALE s Dottie hicks

mandi rhodes

Patti Martin

Marsha Cunningham

Pam Waters

tayler Willis

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This sauce was a closely guarded family secret. Henry “Big O” O’Neal, creator of this BBQ sauce, was a big hearted, larger than life, kind of guy. He liked nothing better than to cook up some country style ribs and slather them with his sauce. Thanks to Big O’s grandson, Neal Anderson, you can be in on our family secret. And the biggest secret yet is how to enjoy it... with a spoon. That’s right, ya’ll. You will love spooning our sauce. So get your “spoon on” and enjoy today. Available in two recipes Rusty’s Red and HoneyDo. Neal has recently added two new sauces, Habanero Red which is Rusty’s Red infused with Habanero and Bees Knees infused with Honey and Jalapeños, both adding a little more variety of flavors to the original family recipe! Rusty Pig’s Roots Run Deep! Our Secret Sauce Story...

Sisters on the fly

Allison Cobb making fantastic memories with Sisters on the Fly

Allison Cobb, after a career of over 25 years in newspapers and professional photography, is now traveling the globe with Sisters on the Fly.

Allison, age 47, is actually the valedictorian of the first graduating class of Tattnall County High School in 1994, and she followed that as a superb writer and photographer for The Glennville Sentinel, The Tattnall Journal, and most recently The Journal Sentinel. However, she put down her pen at the end of 2020 and began her new venture as a member of Sisters on the Fly.

AJust what is Sisters on the Fly? Sisters on the Fly (SOTF) is the largest outdoor women’s group in the United States with “Sisters” all over the U.S. and Canada. Since its formation in 1999, the group has offered empowerment and sisterhood through exceptional outdoor adventures. The best part of SOTF is simply meeting new women who are like minded with kindred spirits.

“You can learn to fish, ride a horse, kayak, play a ukulele, camp under the stars, handle a trailer and recreational vehicle (RV), travel to various destinations near and far, and much, much more,” said Allison, who has already enjoyed some amazing excursions since she joined in March of 2021.

“We have more fun than anyone, and we pride ourselves on making girls out of women,” said Allison, who has fully embraced the sisterhood that she was introduced to over three years ago.

“It’s like being a young girl at a slumber party with your besties where you’re playing games, eating sweets late at night, giggling, dancing, and whatever

without a care in the world...but you are in your 40s and there’s wine involved,” she said.

“Maybe you have a fond memory from Girl Scouts where you created that special craft, or cooked a meal over a campfire to earn those coveted patches. But now, you’re in your 50s and you have to pay for those patches yourself, which you gladly do, so that you can display them with pride on your jacket or on a cute banner hung up at camp,” she added.

“If you have ever been in a sorority in college, you can probably relate when you enjoyed laughing with your sorority sisters and sharing adventures and projects together. When you met a sorority sister from another college later in life, you automatically felt that close bond to her, even though you may now be in your 60s. Sisters on the Fly is just like that, too,” said Allison.

“When I joined Sisters on the Fly, I did so because I like to camp, and I wanted to go kayaking,” said Allison, who said her longtime significant other of 19 years, Jim Wimmer, was not about to go kayaking with her.

“We both live in Glennville, and I actually

first learned about SOTF when we were camping at Georgia Veterans State Park in Cordele,” she said.

“We were taking a drive around the campground because I like to see other people’s camp setups when I saw all these cute little campers, colorful decorations, and banners for Sisters on the Fly. I googled them immediately, and when I told Jim about the group and what they did, he urged me to join. I did just that a few days later,” said Allison.

Allison is Sister #17713, and in just over three years has attended 30 official events as well as hosted 10 of her own. She has also taken part in a few unofficial events that are appropriately labeled “Sisters on the Sly.” Currently, she has several more SOTF adventures already scheduled on her calendar.

While Allison averages on the younger side at age 47, she has gained close friends of all ages, with some of the Sisters who regularly travel to events in their 80s. The only age requirement is that ladies be at least 21.

A nominal fee of $70 is required for membership in SOTF, and each state or regional area has at least one wrangler, a go-to person for information. As

SOTF members, you have access to the website (sistersonthefly.com) and the directory of upcoming events.

“At my very first event at a luncheon in Macon, a Sister told me that I would get out of it what I put into it. How true! I was a little nervous about that first event since I did not know anyone. Yet, after that first meal with several Sisters, I was energized and inspired and could not WAIT for my first camping trip with the group,” said Allison.

The camper she found was a used 2019 Little Guy Mini Max on Facebook Marketplace, and she and Jim drove to Clearwater, Florida, to purchase it. It is an adorable 17-foot camper trailer that was owned by another SOTF member, who was upgrading to a larger one. Allison has a flare for design and decorating, and her camper is usually a showplace at the campground, with a chandelier and other special touches at her campsite.

Allison is undaunted by a challenge, and towing the camper was part of it she knew she would quickly conquer. Even though she grew up tent camping as a child, she had never towed a camper herself. However, she quickly learned how to hitch it, drive it in traffic, back it up, empty the tanks, level it at camp, and all the other ins and outs of camper life. YouTube was a great source of information, as was the experiences and

valuable advice from other Sisters. And, of course, a healthy dose of trial and error was part of the learning curve.

Allison pulls her 2400-lb. camper with a Ford Explorer, which can pull up to 5300 lbs. She can attach her kayak to the top of her vehicle’s roof, but it is quite heavy to place there and remove, so she has a lighter weight “roll-up” plastic kayak that she often takes with her on the camping excursions.

Most trips average three nights, but Allison often likes to leave a day early to set up her campsite.

“We usually have at least one group potluck meal together on a camping trip, or dine out at a nearby restaurant,” said Allison.

“A common misconception some people have of SOTF is that you have to own a vintage camper to be a member. That is not true. While most of us do have some type of camper, either old or new, some of our Sisters prefer tent camping, car camping in their vehicles, or even renting a cabin or room at a nearby hotel. We even have some sisters who just don’t camp at all. It is all about the camaraderie and being together,” said Allison.

Allison shared that SOTF activities include so many different types of adventures that there is always something for everyone.

“On the rare chance that a member can’t find one single thing that interests them, they can always choose to host their own events, too,” said Allison, who enjoys coming up with unique ideas for events.

“I just love the freedom and creativity that goes with the concept of hosting events, even though you are never required to host anything, and most of the members don’t. I just happen to enjoy it,” said Allison.

She hosted her first event in September of 2021, an afternoon in Savannah to hear Tattnall County author Janisse Ray speak about her books and growing up on the Altamaha River.

“I had always wanted to attend one of Janisse’s lectures and thought it would be fun to do that with some Sisters, so I put the event together on the SOTF website. Five others joined me, and we had a great time listening to Janisse and then eating lunch together at a Savannah restaurant, Cotton & Rye,” she said.

Since then, Allison has organized nine other events:

•A small camping trip to Hamburg State Park where it stormed so severely the group of Sisters had to physically hold onto the group tent so it did not blow away.

•A really large camping event for 50 Sisters at Skidaway Island State Park in Savannah where Allison arranged for two Savannah trolleys to pick them up at camp and tour them around the historic downtown, with time for shopping and eating, before returning them back to camp.

•An evening dinner in Savannah at Poe’s Tavern followed by attending a free outdoor movie of “Grease” hosted at the Plant Riverside District.

•A camping weekend at Blythe Island Campground in Brunswick where the group attended the Shrimp and Grits Festival held on Jekyll Island.

•A three-night “cabin” event here in Tattnall County at G&R Farms’ Dasher cabin where Allison and her “real” sister, Michelle Moody (SOTF #17780) hosted ten other Sisters for a weekend of fun games, food, and prizes.

•An enjoyable morning walking tour of Oatland Island Wildlife Center in Savannah followed by lunch at the Flying Fish Bar & Grill.

•A New Year’s Eve weekend party and camping trip here in Tattnall County where Sisters enjoyed karaoke, a champagne toast, and balloon drop to welcome 2024.

• A St. Patrick’s Day weekend camping trip to Savannah, complete with transportation and bleacher seating on Bay St., for close to 50 Sisters who enjoyed the 200th parade.

• An afternoon walking tour of hidden gardens and ironworks hosted by the Garden Club of Savannah.

Allison is a talented photographer, and she preserves each event with memorable pictures that she posts and shares on Facebook.

“I have had so many fantastic adventures, such as tubing down a North Georgia river; whitewater rafting; camping on the coast of Alabama where the Sisters dressed as witches for a Halloween charity bike ride through town; enjoying a luxury camping weekend at Margaritaville in Florida with over a hundred fellow Sisters; spending a day at Disney with the girls; and helping raise several thousands of dollars for an animal rescue/ adoption non-profit agency in Cordele,” she said.

Although the majority of events are sisters-only, occasionally there will be “Sister Mister” events, where the fellas are invited to attend, or “Sister Kidster” events with activities for children/grandchildren.

Other fun events have included:

•Taking part in a wine tour in North Georgia

•Traveling by boat on a tour of the stars in the Okefenokee Swamp

•Decorating a golf cart and driving it in the Tybee Island Christmas Parade

•Kayaking at nighttime at George L. Smith State Park

•Touring the Gypsy Gold Horse Farm and the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida

•Hiking to the campground and sleeping in a tent for three nights on Cumberland Island

• Participating in a Dragon Boat race for charity, in Pensacola, FL

“You can see that we do more than just have fun. We give back and help raise funds for many worthy causes,” said Allison.

Of course, every event is not in the states. There are many international trips as well.

“I stood at the Equator in Quito, Ecuador, and enjoyed a memorable tour of the Galapagos Islands with eight other Sisters through an excursion with Gate 1 Travel. I am already signed up for my second international trip with the Sisters, which is a safari through Kenya and Tanzania in Africa in August of 2024,” said Allison.

“I have been on some incredible events with the Sisters. I am truly grateful for the life that Jim provides for us. He is my guy, and I love him. When he said I could quit working after my 26-year career with Tattnall’s newspapers, I grabbed a camping chair and my camera and never looked back,” she added.

“Yes, the trips have been phenomenal and exciting, but the best moments are connecting with other Sisters and sharing the adventures. We love laughing together, teasing one another over a battle of Rummikub, sitting around a campfire roasting marshmallows, sharing stories, and welcoming new Sisters into our fold,” said Allison.

“Every trip is different, just like every Sister. After so many events, I’ll usually know at least someone when I am at an event in Georgia, Florida, or the Carolinas. And even if I don’t, I know that I will have a whole brand-new group of Sister friends by the time I head back home,” said Allison, adding that as an adult it is often hard to keep up with friends at home except for seeing them at work, school, or church.

“As a Sister on the Fly, I now have a nationwide network of Sisters who I can call upon if needed,” she said.

Allison explained how the Sisterhood really works when one of the Sisters was on a road trip in the panhandle of Florida and a tire completely fell off her camper. When she called AAA for roadside

assistance, she was told of the hours she could be expected to wait until help came. In the meantime, she posted about the incident on the Sisters on the Fly Facebook group page, and within 30 minutes a Sister was by her side who lived in a nearby town.

“Another time one of the Georgia women was in an accident and her camper was tumbled and totaled. She was not injured, but her camper was a mess and she needed to salvage her items as best she could. A handful of other Sisters quickly came to her aid, and they all spent the day cleaning out her rig and helping her get things organized or hauled to the dump. That is Sisterhood,” explained Allison.

One group of Sisters enjoys making quilts. These ladies get together a few times a year and spend a weekend quilting. These beautiful handmade blankets are then sent to fellow Sisters as gifts when they are battling cancer or other serious health scares.

“For those Sisters who travel on their own, a network of ‘Sisters on the Curb’ opens their homes to fellow Sisters, allowing them to park their camper free of charge on their ‘curb’ for the night as a safe and welcoming place to stay. Some even offer electricity, water hook-ups, and use of a hot shower, which Allison recently provided for a Sister.

Yet another group of Sisters offers house sitting/ pet sitting services for fellow Sisters who are traveling and need some help at home. This opens up a wonderful opportunity for one Sister to enjoy another part of the country for a week or two while providing a valuable service for the Sister friend in need.

“There are just so many offshoots of the main Sisters on the Fly group. Groups are dedicated to photography, books, wine, international travel, cast iron cooking, crafts, fishing, horses, kayaking, hiking... and the list goes on and on. It is so easy to find fellow Sisters who share some of your same interests and hobbies,” said Allison. “And truly, everyone I have met has been so nice and welcoming. In fact, it’s part of our only rule: ‘No men, no kids, be nice, and have fun,’” she said.

For those who still aren’t sure if they want to join up, some of the events allow for “Sisters on the Try” so that a newcomer can test the waters for the weekend and see if she wants to officially saddle up with the girls.

“Obviously, I’m a huge fan and supporter of Sisters of the Fly, and I’ve been known to recruit innocent bystanders who I meet at a campground or somewhere along my travels. I am not shy about sharing the fun we have,” said Allison.

“Whether you work, are retired, are married or single, have kids or are childless, living on your own, or are in a big family, Sisters on the Fly may be the thing you never knew you needed until you try it,” said Allison, on finding the joy and friendships that have enriched her life and the events that have simply been such fun!

There are numerous international trips that Sisters can enjoy as well. The photo above was taken during an afternoon snorkeling in The Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador. This fall Allison will be going with the girls to Africa to enjoy safari expeditions in Kenya and Tanzania.

“When we’re together, we don’t have to worry about anyone else. We don’t have to get a child or grandchild to a ballgame, or hurry home to prepare supper. There are no loads of laundry or hungry animals to feed and care for. No other obligations for that weekend that may need your attention. You just see about yourself, and you can take part in as much or as little of the activities as you want to. You can relax around a campfire and join in a conversation with a new Sister friend. Or just sit with your glass of wine and listen to the stories being told. Go out to eat, browse through a thrift shop with a friend, or take in an early morning hike in the woods with your camera. It is all totally up to you as a Sister,” concluded Allison.

Sister-Corps

An offshoot of Sisters on the Fly (SOTF) is the nonprofit group called Sister-Corps. This organization began in 2017 by several SOTF members who had a desire to assist those in disaster-affected areas. Now, Sister-Corps has expanded to become an official 501(c)(3) non-profit entity open to all women of any skill level.

Allison took part in one of these trips in April 2023. She was one of about 50 women who went to Ft. Myers, Florida, an area that had been severely hit by Hurricane Ian in the fall of 2022.

Sister-Corps mobilizes volunteers to provide recovery efforts in areas affected by natural disasters, for environmental relief, or for other community needs. Volunteers pay for their own transportation and housing for many of the larger projects.

“While in Ft. Myers, we helped several families whose

houses had sustained extensive damage during the hurricane. The home I was assigned to needed insulation and new sub-flooring installed as well as insulation and drywall on all interior walls,” said Allison.

“The damage was tremendous, considering water had risen up to four and a half feet into their homes, and these homeowners had not been able to live in their houses for months,” she said.

“These folks, many of them middle age to older, were so grateful for our help. They described us as angels,” said Allison.

“When I first entered the house I was to work on, the job ahead of us seemed overwhelming. I had no idea how I was going to make a difference. This experience was the most challenging and heart wrenching thing I had ever faced,” said Allison, adding that several of the Sister-Corps women were fairly adept with power tools, and drywall was a task several tackled.

“I was in Ft. Myers for eight days, and some of our ladies stayed longer to complete other projects in the area. We worked various projects, which included construction on three different houses as well as seven homes that needed yard cleanup and tree/debris removal,” she said.

“While we certainly made a difference through sheer physical labor, I think the biggest contribution was the boost in morale for the homeowners. After having to deal with the destruction and cleanup for several months already, their spirits were low and their motivation to continue was dwindling. But when a small army of women volunteers arrived, their faces lit up, and you could see their enthusiasm growing throughout the time we were there,” said Allison.

Photo by Casey Jones Photography

“Usually when I leave a Sisters event, I am happy and upbeat. However, when I left Ft. Myers, I cried for the first hour on my drive home. Some of it was pure exhaustion from the long days of physical labor. But a lot of my tears came from the shared camaraderie of working side by side with other volunteers. And, then, my heart was overflowing with gratitude for being able to help others who desperately needed it,” she said.

“The labor was intense, and I was tasked to exert a lot of physical effort with which I was not accustomed on a daily basis. I often questioned myself if I would ever do it again. But I will, and another future project will have me signing up,” explained Allison, on the emotional toll of seeing others in such desperate situations.

“Sister-Corps members are not first responders, but rather we come in on the second or third wave of volunteers in an area and try to help those who don’t have the resources to get back on their feet,” she said.

Sister-Corps also has smaller projects, such as community, beach, or river clean-up events; National Park and trail restoration projects; collection drives for women’s shelters; and many other service-oriented events. Members are also encouraged to take part in blood drives as well.

“While we are all volunteers, there are some trained professionals among us, and women learn new skills on every project throughout the year. Also, Sister-Corps incorporates actual training events throughout the year when possible,” added Allison.

Allison has a video of interviews with several of the homeowners they helped in Ft. Myers. It can be viewed on SistersCorps’ YouTube page.

If you ever doubted the positive impact Sister-Corps provides, one only has to look at the number of lives affected since 2017.

Sister-Corps has assisted with over 46 projects nationwide, which have included 14 natural disasters. Over 1,000 families have been assisted, and several hundred properties have been repaired. Over 180 women’s shelters have been assisted along with dozens of environmental cleanups and remediations. Overall, over $270,000 in direct aid has been provided by Sister-Corps.

For those wishing to donate towards a future project or for more information on volunteering, visit https://sister-corps.org/. (You do not have to be a member of Sisters on the Fly to participate in Sister-Corps.) TCL

Our Youngest Chamber member showcasing her business

Sikes Brothers Ribbon Cutting in Cobbtown, Ga. was attended by Cobbtown Officials, Local Business Owners and Hosted by Greater Tattnall Chamber.

The

Our Executive Directors Glenda Cowart and Angie Duckworth, along with Jeanette Deloach who helped revamp the Chamber in the 1970s, were all in attendance at the Reidsville Airport Groundbreaking

Danny Rewis of the Double Eagle Band performing at Wiregrass festival in Reidsville

Promoting the GROWTH of local businesses.

Our Local VFW Attending business after hours at WRBX radio station, 104.1 FM.

Our Executive Directors Lori Hutcheson and Angie Duckworth attending the Reidsville Bank Groundbreaking

The 1960s Community & Greater Tattnall Chamber having a ribbon cutting to celebrate a new Business in town :)

Greater Tattnall Chamber of Commerce Jr Board for 2023

NEW LOCATION DOWNTOWN GLENNVILLE

a journey of the

heart

Jenny Janney’s love of cardiology, is evident in her dedication to the practice.

PPA Jenny Janney has had the privilege of practicing medicine at Statesboro Cardiology since 2006. Her expertise has been a valuable asset to the team for all these years.

“I always knew I wanted to do something in the medical field,” she shares. Jenny studied exercise science at the University of Georgia before deciding to pursue a career as a physician’s assistant. “I wanted to do physical therapy.” However, she says, “I shadowed several physicians in the local area one summer and got an interest in physician care.”

Pivoting to become a PA would end up being the best decision for her. After completing her undergrad, Jenny attended the Medical College of Georgia for advanced PA training. Originally from Sylvania, she moved closer to home and started working with Statesboro Cardiology.

While her individual practice maintains a primary focus on general cardiology, she cares for those with heart failure, coronary disease, lipid management, and more. “Our practice is all-encompassing,” Jenny says. “You may see me originally but we have all different specialties within our practice.”

The Statesboro Cardiology team works strenuously for the best outcome for their patients. Collaboration is key within their practice, and you can count on well-rounded care in their capable hands.

“I love cardiology,” Jenny exclaims. “It’s my passion and I love working with all of my patients and helping them with their cardiovascular care for the long haul.”

Because of her long-standing commitment to Statesboro Cardiology, Jenny has developed lasting relationships with her patients.

Throughout her career, she has gotten to know the families who frequent Statesboro Cardiology. She values the opportunity to get to know these patients and the extensions of their family as well. “I see lots of families,” she says. “Husbands, wives, and their

children. That is the plus of being in the same place for a long period of time.”

As a native to the local area, Jenny finds joy in caring for the community that helped raise her. “There are a lot of patients from my hometown that I see because there’s not a cardiologist in Sylvania,” she explains. This brings her great joy as she sees the opportunity to provide them with excellent care as a special way to give back.

There is great benefit in prioritizing your health and wellness to include improving your quality of life. “The biggest thing is overall cardiovascular health and keeping up with your general practitioners.” This, Jenny says, is crucial in maintaining your health.

Jenny has been married to her husband Justin for 16 years. They share two children ages 13 and 10. They greatly enjoy traveling as a family and visiting the coast on the weekends.

Jenny emphasizes her love of cardiology, and it is evident in her dedication to the practice. “It’s a great career field. Being able to treat those in my community and do what I love to do is [amazing].”

The individualized care she extends to each patient makes them feel right at home in her office. When you visit Statesboro Cardiology, you can count on excellent patient care.

Keeping History Alive

Written by Alexa Tebben | Photos by Shoot Me Photography

Alex and Donna Tootle are among the few who have fought to keep a piece of history alive in restoring one of the county’s historic lodgings.

Less and less often do historic buildings stand the true test of time to be admired and appreciated for generations to come. Without proper maintenance, older homes either turn into dilapidated eye sores or get torn down altogether. Alex and Donna Tootle are among the few who have fought to keep a piece of history alive in restoring one of these very lodgings.

The cabin was originally built on the Ohoopee River in the early 1900s. In the mid to early 1930s, Mr. Cleave Durrence moved the cabin to Tison. “It was used to house turpentine workers,” Alex shares. At the time, the cabin was a two-bedroom house without a toilet. “When I was a kid, there was a turpentine worker that lived in this little house and he had a wife and five children.”

The yard has beautiful live oak trees, the biggest of which measures thirty feet around the base. To understand the history of the land, they brought in a forester from the University of Georgia to age the oak trees. The forester estimated them to be between 750 and 850 years old.

Alex and Donna moved the cabin in 1999 shortly after it came into their possession. “My daughter wanted to build where it was, so we moved it to the present site,” he explains. Seeing the value of the cabin’s vibrant character, Alex remodeled the cabin to preserve a piece of its history.

The entire remodeling process lasted about a year. Newly retired, Alex says this project came at the perfect time. While the cabin needed ample amount of work, Alex conducted these repairs at his own leisurely pace.

“It was in pretty bad shape, that’s the reason it took a year to restore,” Alex says. He had some help from his friend Roger Kicklighter who assisted in the restoration.

Alex and Donna enjoy each quiet moment they can indulge in at the cabin. It has been a joy for them to see the fruits of their labor in reviving this space. They hope to inspire others with their dedication to preserving this piece of history and keeping the narrative alive for many years to come.

One of the more urgent repairs was the condition of the floors. “It had a wood burning cook stove in the kitchen and it had leaked back there so long that the floor was rotten.” Because of this, it was necessary to replace the floors. Some of the flooring came from the old original Glennville High School as it was being restored at that time.

Alex entirely reconstructed the living space. “The small bedroom I turned into a bathroom,” he says. Alex cut the door out of the other bedroom to transform the space into a dining area. He explains that all the old homes back then had tall attics. From this dining area, he says, “I built a set of stairs that went up in the attic and built a bedroom upstairs.” With the use of this space, he transformed the entire house.

In addition to the work inside, Alex restored much of the cabin’s exterior. He replaced the original columns with newer columns. The porch boards were in poor condition, but Alex was determined to maintain the integrity of the cabin in his restoration of them. “I took all of the boards up on the porch and turned them around,” he says. This action of turning the porch boards around in fact saved the porch.

The cabin had an old dilapidated shingle roof. Rather than replace it with another standard shingle roof, Alex tore off the shingles and gave it a green metal top. This added character while also restoring the condition of the cabin.

Around the time they began remodeling, Alex started landscaping. He planted an abundance of camellia bushes, his favorite plant. “The beauty of this place is my camellias,” he says proudly. Though Alex does not recall the exact moment he became interested in gardening, he finds great joy in exercising the use of his green thumb.

“My momma was a big plant person, and I guess it just grew on me.” Alex continues to plant more camellia bushes each year and has amassed over two hundred at the cabin site alone. “I probably have fifty Queen Tear hanging baskets around my cabin and my barns,” he adds. In addition to their vibrant color and unique nature, the Queen Tears can withstand colder climate and do not require frequent watering.

The landscaping brings to life the rich history and

quaint beauty of the cabin. Alex’s tender care of the property shines through in every bush he plants. Combined with the attention to detail given to the interior, the cabin shines with a lively radiance befitting to the sanctuary that it is.

“The cabin is full of antiques that belonged to our parents, our grandparents, and our greatgrandparents,” Donna says. “We love history, and we appreciate our lineage.” They proudly decorate the cabin with these precious heirlooms to remember their beloved family members.

Alex and Donna live on a farm about a mile from the cabin. “I was born and raised right here on this farm,” Alex says. Donna grew up on her parents’ farm ten miles from where they currently live.

They have two daughters that are both married with children. In total, the Tootles have six grandchildren from elementary age to college. “We have a full-time job taking care of grandkids,” Alex teases.

One daughter lives at her home on their farm with her family and the other lives ten miles away on their other farm. The kids often venture back and forth and enjoy playing outside. They are extremely involved in sports and other community activities.

Before retiring, Donna had a long career in teaching a range of students from elementary school to college at various schools. During her career, she spent several years as Director at Southeastern Technical College. She has always had a heart for people and a passion for education. Following her retirement, Donna served on the Tattnall County Board of Education for two terms.

Donna perfectly describes the serenity of the property and how harmonious her time there always proves. Amidst her busy working days, Donna recalls, “I walked to the cabin and sat on the front porch

underneath those oak trees and I was at peace with the world.”

Her two daughters followed in her footsteps by becoming teachers, one for elementary children and one for high school. They enjoy living close to their parents and having the invaluable support that comes with.

We’re an integrative medicine and wellness practice that helps people live life better through treatments and holistic services.

COMPASSION DIGNITY CARE

Community Hospice

At Community Hospice your loved one will receive the best possible care by the area’s leading hospice provider. Our staff is professionally trained to provide not only physical and emotional comfort, but spiritual and social care, too, for the patient, family and significant others. Quality of life is our goal and we offer the finest, full-family care program available in Vidalia and 14 surrounding counties.

Jason Colbert, CHPCA, CEO

Most Insurance Accepted

Medicaid/Wellcare • Amerigroup

PeachState • PeachCare

United Healthcare

Blue Cross/Blue Shield

PPO & HMO

Top row, left to right: Kelli Sharpton, FNP-C, Callie Wilkes, PA-C, Anglia Dailey, FNP-C, Shayla Sellers, FNP-C

Bottom row, left to right: Carlie Poppell, PA-C, Etta Boss-Cole, MD, Erica Woods, FNP-C

Monday-Friday: 8 AM–5 PM and Saturday (seasonal): 9 AM–12 PM

more coach than a

For Coach Quaysean Davis, basketball is more than just the sport he coaches at the local high school. Basketball is a way to help boys grow into men.

CCoach Davis states, “We want them to become good husbands, good fathers, and [we] use basketball as a tool.” Being a part of the basketball team is also a way he prepares students for their future, whether in college or in the workforce. He teaches them life skills such as punctuality, time management, scheduling, and balancing work and social life.

Quaysean (who goes by Quay) grew up in a single parent household with his three siblings, and while he didn’t have a “normal” household, he did have sports. Growing up, he played every sport he could, including basketball, football, and baseball. If he wasn’t in school, he played ball, and if he was in school, he was still playing ball. He turned out to be very good at basketball and he continued to play for as long as he could.

Quay had several teachers and coaches who invested in him as a student and as an athlete. Some coaches, like Coach William Altman, played a large

role in young Quay’s life. Without even trying, Coach Altman became a father figure in Quay’s life. He also inspired Quay to become the same kind of coach – one who cares about each player as a person, not as just an athlete. Quay’s time as a basketball player at Auburn University in Montgomery, Alabama, helped him learn how to coach boys to become the best they can be. He learned how to teach simple skills that make a large impact on the way a player plays basketball. These simple skills and drills are exactly what Quay wanted to implement into the TCHS basketball

“Our TCHS community is very supportive, and I am very thankful for all the help the community gives,” Coach Davis says. The Warriors are currently raising money to buy new uniforms and laundry detergent for post-game laundry, and they need help fueling their athletes with Gatorade and snacks for games and practices.

FCA camp has become an important part of his son Asher’s life as well. Asher joins the team in their huddle and has enjoyed every part of camp. Asher being present with the team reminds Quay that camp is “bigger than basketball” and that life is so much more than playing sports.

program when he became a coach. What he didn’t expect was to become head coach so soon after he came back, and while he was nervous, he knew he had great plans for the basketball team. When he got the job as head coach, one of the things he started was a basketball camp that occurs each year at the end of May. At this camp, Quay and his players “emphasize skill development, such as being able to dribble with the left hand as well as the right hand, jumping for shots, making

Coach Davis states, “We want them to become good husbands, good fathers, and [we] use basketball as a tool.” Being a part of the basketball team is also a way he prepares students for their future, whether in college or in the workforce. He teaches them life skills such as punctuality, time management, scheduling, and balancing work and social life.

Christianity,” Quay says, “so we want to let them know what is out there. So far, it has been great.” At this year’s camp, many of his players accepted Christ. Quay says, “That is a beautiful thing and that is why we come.”

Ultimately, Quay wants people to know “the program is in good hands, and we are going to continue to work hard to help grow our student athletes.”  TCL

Photo by For’jd America

• Fun family events year-round

• Glennville Sweet Onion Festival

• Annual Sweet Onion Golf Tournament

• Celebration of the Christmas Season downtown in December

• Business support, including ribbon cuttings and grand openings

Photo Credit: Karen Norian Photography

SPECIALIZING IN GENERAL SURGERIES INCLUDING:

APPENDECTOMY | GALLBLADDER REMOVAL

HERNIA REPAIR | COLONOSCOPY

THYROID SURGERIES INCLUDING BIOPSY

BOWEL SURGERIES

BREAST SURGERIES INCLUDING BIOPSY

Rebecca Spahos, M.D. | Kevin Timperman, M.D.

Story by Pam Waters |

A Legacy of Law and Love

Dan Dubberly and wife Betty’s steadfast love for each other has been the hallmark of their marriage as well as the recognition of their individual strengths that complement each other.

GGlennville attorney Dan Dubberly and his wife, Betty, are now in their 90s and celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary this past July 24, 2023. Their steadfast love for each other has been the hallmark of their marriage as well as the recognition of their individual strengths that complement each other.

“We met at Mercer University. We married when Dan and I had graduated from Mercer,” said Betty, whose Bachelor of Arts degree is in Education.

“While I was in Law School at Mercer, I purchased a birthday present for my mother at a department store. Betty worked there part time and wrapped it for me. It was love at first sight! Our fraternity sister arranged a blind date for us to attend a fraternity dance,” said Dan, who was instantly captivated by Betty at this initial encounter.

“On our second date, two things occurred. First, I had planned on attending a movie with Betty. Instead, we went to a Lanier High School football game. I learned she loved sports. Second, she was so pretty I could not take my eyes off of her. I ran into the back of the car ahead of me,” he said.

Thankfully, the good Lord took over after that, and the two were married at the Vineville Methodist Church in Macon on July 24, 1955. This is the church where Betty attended.

“After our honeymoon in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, we returned to Glennville. My grandparents, H.C. Dubberly and Levia DeLoach Dubberly, had given me a lot on which we built our home, and it was constructed by X.L. Whitlow,” said Dan.

After they married and moved to Glennville, Betty started teaching school, and Dan began his law practice in the same office as his father, which at that time was located behind Glennville Bank. This building no longer stands.

During these years, most of the merchants and businesses would close their offices and stores on Thursday afternoon, but then they would open all-day Saturday, until dark for many of them.

“Those Thursday afternoons provided me time to play golf with my brother, Barry, Duke Harvey, and Lucious Woodcock. Yet, as we added children to our family and my law practice became busier, I quit

playing golf. Yet, in my seventies, I resumed the game,” said Dan.

The two definitely complement each other. Betty confided that she usually wants to accomplish a task at a faster pace than Dan, who often wants to deliberate on who to call or how to proceed.

“I’m now 91 and Dan is 93, so I know who I can call to get a task done,” she said, with a chuckle, with Dan committed most week days to being at the family law practice of Dubberly Law Firm, LLC, usually reserving Thursdays for Betty now.

“Working at the law practice is just a way of life for me. Practicing law is what I love to do and have done during my adult life. I grew up with a father who was an attorney, and he was an admirable role model for me,” said Dan.

Dan’s legal services include wills, estates, land acquisitions, adoptions, land disputes, bankruptcies, and corporate law, although he will not handle divorces.

Dan plans to work as long as he is physically and mentally able to provide a service to others, and his staff can attest to his continued vast legal knowledge and his astuteness as an attorney.

Despite Dan’s almost daily sojourn to the office, Dan and Betty begin their day several times a week with a walk from their home on Barnard Street to the corner of Church and Barnard streets. Along the way, they are often greeted by hands waving, horns beeping, and lights flashing from friendly people as they ride past them. Betty and Dan are truly touched by the warm reception and the kind gestures from townspeople that make them feel blessed as they begin each day.

“We know we need to stay active to maintain our mobility and health,” said Betty.

Dan suffered a fall in 2022 at home, breaking his hip, which caused him to spend 20 days in the hospital. During the next three months of his recuperation, he was unable to visit the office. That temporary physical limitation, however, did not deter him from continuing his daily legal work. The staff would bring the paperwork to him, Dan would sign documents as needed and proceed with legal matters at home. During the day, staff members would retrieve the paperwork.

The office includes attorneys Dan and his son, Danny, and several other staff. These include Cathy Waters, long-time employee for over 40 years who now is just in the office one day a week as the bookkeeper. Hope Meadows, another faithful employee for many years, left the office recently due to a parent’s health. Celesta Bess is now fulfilling Hope’s duties.

To say that law is a family legacy is certainly an understatement. Dan’s father, Bruce Daniel Dubberly, began the law firm in 1923. He died

Dan and Barry Dubberly as young boys with their parents, Vera and Bruce Dubberly.

in 1976, but he had also served as District Attorney (DA) until he retired. Another family member, Waldo DeLoach, was an attorney in Moultrie for many years. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Dubberly law firm.

The legacy of law continues with two of Dan and Betty’s children, Danny and Kim, and also two grandsons, Bruce Dubberly and Jon Hope.

“I think the law profession was just a natural inclination for Danny and Kim,” said Dan.

Since January 2021, Kim, age 64, has served as an Assistant District Attorney for the Atlantic Judicial Circuit in Hinesville. She works with juvenile cases in Tattnall, Bryan, and Long counties. Kim serves with Sandra Dutton, also an Assistant District Attorney. (Sandra was Kim’s seventh grade physical education teacher.)

In 1977, Kim graduated from Glennville High School, like her two brothers, and earned her law degree from Mercer University in 1984, just like her father. She received her undergraduate degree in 1981 from Mercer, with a major in political science.

Before joining the DA’s office in Hinesville, Kim worked in Chatham County for 35 years at the District Attorney’s office in the area of criminal and juvenile law.

Kim now lives in Richmond Hill with her husband, Bob Merriman, who is a retired police chief and homicide investigator.

Kim speaks fondly of her parents.

“My parents have always prioritized God, family, and work, in that order. A bit of food never made it to our mouths until our heads were bowed in thanks for all of God’s provisions. My dad is a humble man, who is also feisty—both traits have complemented each other and been the perfect storm for a life long-lived. Integrity is what most comes to mind when I think of my father—he does what is right even when no one is glancing in his direction. My mom is the voice in my head that inspires me to never give up, no matter how dire the situation seems,” said Kim.

Kim’s children include Whitney Rowden, Jon Hope, and Claire Garwes.

Whitney and her husband, Vinney Egitto-Kern, also live in Richmond Hill, just a few blocks from Kim. Vinney has been in the Army the past 19 years as a helicopter maintenance pilot. Whitney, a former helicopter pilot in the Army, met her future husband when they were both stationed in Afghanistan. Today, she enjoys her role as mom to their two sons, Ric, age three years old, and Vitto, almost two years old.

Whitney has sweet memories of her grandparents.

“Grand B and GranDan, which I called them, took my cousin, Casey, and me on trips each year when we were children. Most often, we went to Ponte Vedra, Florida, where we divided our time between swimming in the Atlantic, eating at nice restaurants, and shopping,” said Whitney.

“I remember being surprised at how muc7h faster GranDan was than I was when we would race across the pool. I also enjoyed the walks we took in the evenings along the beach. They also took us to Washington, D.C., to learn of our nation’s history,” said Whitney.

“I spent many of my childhood summers with them. Once Grand B and I planted a small garden in the branch beside the house. To this day, I think the cucumbers we harvested were the sweetest I have ever tasted. A few times, she also let Casey and me help make her famous fruitcake cookies. As we were mixing the ingredients with our hands, she would pour a little rum in the bowl for flavor. As girls, Casey and I were shocked and thought certainly anyone eating the cookies would become drunk after just a few,” said Whitney, laughing at this special childhood memory.

“I also benefited from living with them in high school. With their guidance and support, I learned what it was like to become part of a small-town community through their church and the school here.

They are truly pillars of strength and calm for our family. We are all blessed to have them in our lives,” added Whitney.

Jon Hope is single, lives in Hinesville, and is an attorney in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps.

Claire recently graduated from Georgia State College in Milledgeville and is a teacher this fall in Pembroke.

Danny, at 67, is the oldest of the three offspring of Dan and Betty. He, too, was a graduate of Mercer University. He is married to Tattnall County Probate Judge Gloria Dubberly. After law school, he joined the law firm to assist his father.

Although Danny had a previous neck surgery, an incident at a Georgia Southern University (GSU) football game actually paralyzed him for several months. Due to the months he spent at Shepherd’s Clinic in Atlanta with extensive therapy, Danny has regained his ability to walk with aids and has resumed his law practice.

His blended family includes daughter Casey Giddens, son Bruce Dubberly, and Justin McLoud (Gloria’s deceased son).

Front Row from left: Standing beside Betty Dubberly is her sister, Gloria Johnson and standing by Dan Dubberly is Barry, his brother.

Dan and Betty Dubberly dancing at grandson Bruce’s wedding this past year.

Casey lives in Suwanee, Georgia, with her husband, Eric, who is employed by Sonic Automotive. Their three active children include Grant, Ava, and Quinn, ranging in age from ten to fourteen.

Casey had fond memories or her grandparents.

“My favorite memory of GrandDan and GrandB would be when I was very young, and we lived in the little house behind their house. I was always so happy to be able to run down my little curvy brick path from my house to theirs. They were always so happy to see me and spend time with me, and that meant so much to me. GrandDan would be happy to read to me with all the voices. GrandB would always be happy to teach me how to do anything I was curious about learning, readily fostering my creativity. She had the best advice in town, too. They are both so kind, and I hope to be able to make my family feel as loved and valued as they made me feel,” said Casey.

Bruce married the former Ali Price this past year, and the couple make their home in Macon, where Bruce is an attorney for the firm of James, Bates, Brannen and Groover, LLP. Ali is a Physician’s Assistant (PA) for an orthopedic company in Macon.

Lee, the youngest and single at 62, oversees the Dubberly farm property and serves oftentimes as the driver for his parents. He was previously an employee of the U.S. Postal Service.

“Lee has been such a help to us the past few years, and we feel more comfortable when he is driving us to Savannah and elsewhere out of town,” said Betty, who added that Kim comes home most weekends and

accompanies them to church.

“I have good memories of my parents never missing any of our sporting events. I recall a lot of hours spent playing basketball and baseball with my father as my mother watched from the porch steps. Not only did my father compete against us, but he often became a muchneeded referee to ensure my siblings played fairly,” said Lee.

“As I get older, I increasingly cherish the company of my parents. My grandfather, Daddy Bruce, often said ‘It’s good to be here.’ This is that I think every time I walk through their door,” added Lee.

Betty’s mother, Mary Ketchie, died in 2016 at age 104.

“She was a woman ahead of her time, working at the Naval Ordnance during World War II when we moved to Macon. She retired from an elite dress shop in Macon, working there many years,” said Betty. Mary lived in a small brick home behind Dan and Betty, but did not move there until she was 92 years old.

“Although I love plants and flowers, Mother could grow anything; she had a natural green thumb and continued to garden after she moved here,” said Betty.

Betty and Dan have lived in the former brick home of Dan’s parents for the past 34 years since his mother, Vera, died in 1990.

However, Betty recalls their children’s growing up years when they lived on Love’s Chapel Road, across from where South Tattnall Elementary School is located today.

“We had a wonderful neighborhood, and I remember 26 boys at one time who were always planning

Betty and Dan Dubberly, Mercer graduates. (Top right)

Betty and Dan Dubberly with first child, Danny, as an infant. (Bottom right)

something in the woods behind their parents’ homes. They actually built a tunnel from behind our house, and this occupied a lot of their time,” said Betty, with an obvious fondness for her children’s formative years.

“The families of Clinton and Mary Frances Oliver, Cecil and Mary Daniel, Mack and Betty Baxter, Jared and Melba Durrence, Bob and Bobbie Humphrey, and George and Jackie King were some of our neighborhood friends, who all had children, mostly boys, about the same age as ours,” said Betty.

“I really enjoyed the children’s years growing up, but I also taught math at Glennville High School for eight years, teaching sporadically when a math teacher was needed. I even returned to GSU to update my courses during this time. However, they had so many activities at their ages of just two years apart that I didn’t teach for long. The children were all involved in sports: Danny played football and baseball, Lee played basketball and football, and Kim played basketball and softball. We were constantly on the go to a sports game. I love sports as well, and when a Braves or UGA Dawgs game is on TV, Dan will just have to find another TV or something else to do,” said Betty.

Dan also recalls attending the high school football and basketball games. They were also fortunate to attend the Master’s Golf Tournament in Augusta several years with friends. They attended many of the University of Georgia football games, especially when Ronnie Jenkins of Glennville was a star on the UGA football team.

“We also seldom missed a Georgia-Florida game. One time, a group of us rented a school bus, with Jerry Dutton as our driver,” said Dan.

Betty has always loved sports, even more so than Dan.

“I grew up with a brother, my twin Billy Holland, who played football and baseball. He died at age 70, and we were always close. He retired as a colonel in the Army, and he was living on St. Simons Island at the time of his death,” said Betty, who has a sister, Gloria Johnson, age 87, living in Snellville.

Betty is a longtime member of the Glennville Garden Club, and Dan has joined in recent years. Dan’s mother, Vera Dubberly, was a charter member of the club. Betty served as a past club president and in other offices, and their home was on a Christmas Tour of Homes.

“Betty is well organized and knows how things should be done. She is persistent until the mission is accomplished. She keeps up with all of our finances

Dan and Betty Dubberly’s graduation photo from Mercer.

Dan and Betty Dubberly with Danny

and prepares the information for our income tax returns. Betty is very frugal. In the kitchen, she continues to be amazing. She can prepare a meal for a family gathering for a crowd with all dishes being ready on time,” added Dan.

Dan has a smile on his face when he talks about Betty, and you can still see his adoration today.

“While in college, in addition to working part-time at a department store, Betty played softball, was president of her sorority, and graduated with honors from Mercer. Although her degree was in elementary education in which she first taught for several years, when she decided to teach high school algebra, Betty took classes at Georgia Southern to become certified, making all A’s. Many of her students told me what an excellent teacher she was,” said Dan.

“She was a very good mother to our children while they were growing up and continues to be. Betty was close to our two granddaughters, Casey and Whitney, who provided much pleasure for us. We also enjoyed our three grandsons, Jon, Bruce, and Justin. We were saddened to lose Justin in 2016,” said Dan, and he and Betty enjoy the visits of their five great-grandchildren, who add laughter and delight to Dan and Betty’s lives.

“My brother, Barry, died on March 15, 1980, but his daughter, Pam, is very dear to us,” he said.

Betty and Dan enjoy watching movies at night and Betty still reads, but not as much as in previous years. Dan is a voracious reader and usually is immersed in a novel in the evenings.

Their church of First Baptist Church has always been a part of their lives, and the two look forward to attending their Friendship Sunday School Class. Their astute teachers are Ronnie Barnhill and Troy Rahn, whose knowledge and research are vast. Dan is also a deacon in the church.

Betty describes Dan as the epitome of patience, almost too patient, she says.

“I am more proactive about getting something done. He can do something piecemeal, and it’s okay with him. He is not really a handyman, with his long hours at the office, and that’s why I know the numbers of repairmen,” she said.

“For about 30 years, when we were younger, we traveled with several other couples, such as S.E. and Madera Smith and Julian and Jackie Thomas. We rented a big van and visited places all over the U.S.,” said Betty, adding that they enjoyed a lot of laughter and camaraderie on these trips. They would usually be gone on trips for two weeks or even three weeks, such as when they visited Canada.

“I have been provided household help over the years, and Minnie Lou Newton has helped in our home from over 30 years ago. Our housekeeper now, Graciela Chihuahua, can do about anything, like putting up our last mailbox. Between the two of us, we can tackle most projects,” said Betty.

“There was plenty of discipline in our home. I would correct the children when they misbehaved, but I would warn them, ‘just wait until your Daddy gets home’,” said Betty, although Dan has always been the peacemaker in the family, to the point that even in his law practice, he will not handle divorces.

Betty Dubberly’s 90th birthday event. Front row, kneeling left to right, Ava Giddens, Kim Rowden, Gloria Dubberly. Second row: Quinn Giddens, Grant Giddens, Betty Dubberly, Mary Ann Sikes, Pam McCord, Sidney Purcell. Third row: Casey Giddens, Dan Dubberly, Dell Sikes, Claire Garwes, Jon Hope. Fourth row: Vitto Egitto-Kernheld, Whitney Egitto-Kern, Danny Dubberly, Peyton Tatum, Bruce Dubberly, Reed Purcell. Fifth row: Lee Dubberly, Eric Giddens, Vinney Egitto-Kern, Ric Egitto-Kern, and Sandy McCord.

“We are pleased and thankful for the adults our children have become. All three are kind, honest, and very good to Betty and me,” said Dan.

“Another of our blessings is the level of affection and caring we have received from our daughter-in-law, Gloria, and our son-in-law, Bob Merriman. In addition, the relationships with the spouses of our grandchildren have been both enjoyable and loving. The Lord has blessed me to have had this wonderful, beautiful, intelligent, loving, and wise lady as my wife for these 68 years,” said Dan.

Legal Career of Dan Dubberly

This year marks 69 consecutive years of practicing law, beginning in 1955, after Dan Dubberly graduated from law school at Mercer in Macon.

During those early years, Dan practiced with his father, Bruce Dubberly, who was District Attorney of the Atlantic Judicial Circuit. Their office was located then where the employee parking lot is today behind the current Glennville Bank downtown building. Dan’s father died in 1977 at age 76.

Also, the late Pam Durrence Dasher was the first legal secretary for the Dubberly & Dubberly Law Firm.

Prior to the death of Dan’s father (Bruce), Albert Rahn III, known as Ronnie Rahn, began working in the Dubberly law office and continued to practice until he ran for Judge of the State Court of Tattnall County and was elected. Ronnie later was elected as Judge of the Superior Courts of this Circuit and held that office until his retirement. Shortly before Rahn left the law office, Joe McGovern began working with the firm.

“Joe died in August of 2020 from COVID, and he is missed by all of us at the law firm. He was my law partner for 42 years,” said Dan. Another sudden loss was Angie Howard, who was Dan’s long-time secretary and a family friend.

“In 1984, Danny began practicing with Joe and me, and he has continued to be my partner, even though he has suffered some challenging health issues in recent years,” he said.

In addition to providing his legal services, Dan has served in many other capacities:

•He served as Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the State of Georgia from 1959-1971, representing the warden of the Georgia State Prison. He was a member of the Prosecuting Attorneys Counsel of Georgia from 1977-1981.

•He served as Solicitor General of the State Court of Tattnall County from 1966-1990. During part of this time, he also served as Solicitor General of Long County.

•He was a member of the Board of Governors of the State Bar of Georgia from 1971-1977.

•Dan was a member of the State Trial Judges and Solicitors Association and served as its President from 1980-1981.

•In addition, he has served as City Attorney for the City of Glennville, Canoochee EMC’s counsel for more than 50 years, attorney for the Tattnall County Board of Education for over 30 years, attorney for First Citizens Bank of Glennville for 28 years, President of the Georgia Electric Membership Counsel’s Association, and as a member of the Army Reserve and the Georgia National Guard for 11 years.

“I am truly blessed to have been raised by two loving Christian parents. I believe I am a better attorney for having practiced law with my father for the last 30 plus

L to r: S.E. Smith, Jackie Thomas, Julian Thomas, Madera Smith, and Betty Dubberly, who were all long-time friends and vacationers together.

years. Dad has a tremendous work ethic, and you can see that by the hours he continues to devote to his law practice. He does research into every legal issue that comes up in every case. He still appears in Court and argues cases. He is an inspiration to me and others,” said Danny Dubberly.

Daughter Kim also speaks highly of her father and his devotion to his chosen law profession.

“He is definitely meticulous in his research and approach to every case. I have always admired him for his patience, persistence, and dedication to legal issues to which he was presented. Dad certainly has set an admirable example for us to follow, not only in the practice of law but in the living of life,” said Kim.

“I have worked with Mr. Dan for 48 years, both full time and part time. He has always been a kind and compassionate boss and friend. You could always tell him anything, and it would go no further. He has always had respect for all the females who have worked for him as well as his clients and other attorneys,” said Cathy Waters, who continues to work one day a week as the law firm bookkeeper.

“I have good memories of my parents never missing any of our sporting events. I recall a lot of hours spent playing basketball and baseball with my father as my mother watched from the porch steps. Not only did my father compete against us, but he often became a much-needed referee to ensure my siblings played fairly,” said Lee.

Dan has provided legal advice and as the attorney in various types of cases. He has been the attorney for hundreds of wills, estate proceedings, incorporations, death related issues, adoptions, cases involving vehicle accidents and land disputes, and even successfully defended a man charged with murder in a jury trial.

His law career has included thousands of hours in legal research and writing of opinions.

Dan commented on his law career and his enjoyment of what he does

“The Lord has been gracious in allowing me to perform legal services involving the government, starting a successful business, which is open today, and being involved in many interesting legal situations. I have enjoyed working sometimes against and sometimes with other attorneys. Most have been honorable, honest, capable, and cooperative when the situation permits,” said Dan.

“When I began on October 17, 1955, there were six attorneys in Glennville: Joseph T. Grice; C. L. Cowart; his son, Dan Cowart; R.L. Carr, Bruce D. Dubberly; and Tom Howard. Four lawyers were in Reidsville: John Rayburn, Mike Eason, Max Cheney, and Herschel Elders,” said Dan, who has a remarkable memory.

“I was offered the position that R.L Carr had held as Judge of the State Court after Carr’s death, but I declined and recommended Dan Cowart. He was subsequently appointed to serve the unexpired term of Judge Carr, and he continued in that capacity for as long as his health would permit,” said Dan, with Dan Dubberly and Dan Cowart attending meetings of the State Trial Judges and Solicitors’ Association. Dan was elected president of this organization and presided at each meeting.

His law practice led to attending the American Bar Association Annual Meeting in London, England, in 1971.

“Betty went with me as well as Clinton and Mary Frances Oliver. They enjoyed the London sights while I attended the meetings. After the meetings, we toured France, Italy, Switzerland, and Germany,” said Dan.

Dan moved into his present law office in 1972 at the “top of the hill,” at 704 W. Barnard Street, Glennville, and is grateful for his long law career in which he continues to be active today…at age 93 years of age.

The marriage of Dan and Betty and Dan’s long legal career are indeed a legacy of love and law. TCL

Betty Dubberly her younger sister Gloria, Mama, and Dan Dubberly at Mercer.

Betty Davis, Joe Davis, S.E. Smith, and Madera Smith having fun together in their younger years.

a Woman’s Work

Written by Tayler Willis | Photos

It’s no secret that a successful career in agriculture requires hard work, long days, and grit. These qualities are highly evident in Tina Collins, owner of Vidalia Sweet Produce, LLC.

Collins Family

Family and faith keep Tina going. She loves her role as a mother and “Lolli” to her grandchildren. She appreciates her family’s support of her demanding career, as she often travels to conventions and for sales, which is her favorite part of owning Vidalia Sweet Produce.

considered opening another insurance agency, but decided to join her husband in the world of agriculture instead. She’s never looked back.

After working alongside Ronny and learning the produce business for five years, Tina formed Vidalia Sweet Produce, LLC. Today, Vidalia Sweet Produce sells onions, watermelons, and row crops to major retailers across the United States and Canada. While it’s easy for shoppers to take for granted the array of produce options in our grocery stores, Tina explains the logistics required to get her products on the shelves are anything but simple. Her mornings start in the office, “putting out everyday fires,” she says. She speaks with buyers, places bids for her product’s purchase, accepts and processes purchase orders, and secures transportation for deliveries. This is often done under strict time constraints. For example, Tina explains that an Aldi store in Ohio could place an order on a Thursday for onions they expect to have on their shelves Saturday morning. Tina must then process the order and have employees work overtime to get it packed while she secures transportation from Cobbtown to Ohio for delivery Friday night.

I am blessed to have had the privilege to watch my girls grow up on the farm and now to see my grands grow up on the farm. I pray one of them will follow my footsteps.

Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her. Luke 1:45

Vidalia Sweet Produce operates year round, meaning Tina must also arrange for purchase and shipment from warmer climates in cooler months when onions are out of season in Georgia. Onions are shipped from places like Peru to the Port of Savannah, where Vidalia Sweet Produce accepts them to be sorted and prepared for delivery to their customers. In the summer, work ramps up to seven days a week in anticipation for the watermelon season’s big day – the Fourth of July. Vidalia Sweet Produce brags that their watermelons are the best around, and they work hard to get them on shelves in time for patriotic celebrations at cookouts, lakes, and beaches.

It all adds up to a demanding job, to say the least. Tina is happy to be the woman at

the helm. “Being a woman in agriculture is powerful,” she says. Vidalia Sweet Produce is certified as a 100 percent Women Owned business by the National Women Business Owners Corporation, a designation that fills Tina with pride. She clarifies that women have always had important roles in agriculture, but that in recent years have begun showing up more and more in leadership roles. As for the reception by others in the industry, Tina is happy to say she has been very welcomed. “By recognizing my strength in agriculture, maybe it will motivate others to join as well,” she hopes. Tina believes the opportunities for hard working women in agriculture are endless, and she’s happy to belong to the amazing group of men

Unlike many who work in agriculture, Tina did not grow up farming. Tina was a successful insurance agent when she met her husband, Ronny Collins, back in 2002. She worked in the Collins Insurance Agency, which Tina and Ronny still own, up until 2006, and opened Merle Norman Riedsville in 2004.

and women leading the way to the future of agriculture.

Tina is quick to credit her success to the people surrounding her and keeping the business running. She works alongside her husband, Ronny, who she calls her mentor and role model in the industry, though she jokes she’s better at her job than he is at his. She also gives credit to her hard working employees who do whatever it takes to get the job done. “We couldn’t do it without them,” she says. The team she has assembled to keep her business running smoothly is an impressive feat regardless, but the fact that she joined this industry that many are born into as an adult well into another career is even more impressive.

Tina has nothing but thankfulness for her career and her business. She, like many farmers, leans on her faith in God in seasons of uncertainty. “God’s word says you can do all things through faith, and I have had to have a tremendous amount of faith on my journey,” she says. Though there have been challenges along the way, Tina chooses to keep an optimistic perspective. She sees nothing but positives from her experience owning Vidalia Sweet Produce. It takes a special person to take on the challenge of starting a successful produce business, especially while maintaining other business ventures. Tina has been willing to put in the work, and she has proven how impressive a woman’s work truly can be. TCL

Physical

Occupational

Speech

Aroma

Pet

Massage

Dietary

Volunteers

Bereavement

Hospice

THE CLOSE of a career

written by Marsha Cunningham |

After 45 years, David and Holly Baxter look back over at Baxter’s Paint & Body Shop, Inc., and reflect on the customers and friends made along the way.

WWhen the time comes for the close of a career, people look back over the years and reflect on the past. David and Holly Baxter are smiling as they have approached this point in their lives. After 45 years, Baxter’s Paint & Body Shop, Inc., has come to a close. Even after the announcement of the planned closure, calls continued to come into the shop from loyal customers who hoped to have “one last job” completed.

Photos by Provided by The Baxter’s

David and Holly embraced Henry Ford’s belief that “the man who will use his skill and constructive imagination to see how much he can give for a dollar, instead of how little he can give for a dollar, is bound to succeed.”

David and his childhood friend, Ricky Dukes, opened B&D Body Shop in 1978. David bought complete ownership of the business within a couple of years and Baxter’s Paint & Body Shop, Inc. was born. The business completely outgrew the small service station location, and a new building and land was purchased in 1986. In the early 1990’s, expansion continued, and a building addition was added. The business was now a full-service auto body collision shop.

David’s journey began when he received auto body training immediately after high school and began working for Speed Edenfield Ford’s body shop in Darien. He then became a Georgia State Trooper (a decision influenced by his father, Deputy Sheriff Floyd Baxter) and spent the next decade working as a Trooper First Class. During this time, he enjoyed teaching trooper cadets high-speed pursuit driving at the Atlanta Motor Speedway. But his first love of auto repair was still strong and eventually won out driving him to return home and open the collision shop.

Holly Joseph married David soon after she graduated from Georgia Southern College and joined the company in 1986. Holly began automating the office to keep a current accurate record for all customers and their vehicles. She soon became an integral part of the business, as well as in David’s life. As the company continued to grow, a towing service was added, requiring David’s full attention and as David was growing the towing business, Holly became the cornerstone for the collision shop.

emphasis of the company has always been on providing top quality repairs. David learned his work ethic from his Pop, Carlos Anderson, who was a mechanic for over 30 years with K&K Chevrolet in Glennville. Pop always said, “If you are going to fix something, boy, do it right the first time.” David always admired his Pop and learned his love of automobiles from him. Pop’s guidance and his strong maternal Christian upbringing has always been the foundation of David’s unwavering integrity. While companies now have cute gecko and duck mascots that speak for their integrity, Baxter’s had the voice of its staff who made repairs as if every vehicle was their own. The Baxter’s say that their success also depended

David and Holly say “it’s hard to believe that they have served the community through their business for over four decades. The mutual trust and respect built with local insurance agents is the bedrock of the industry and was so valuable to their business and for our community.” They contribute their success to their love for God, devoted Christian employees, their love for their customers and lots of hours of hard work.

on a strong staff, who functioned well as a team. Charlie Young, Shop Foreman, was with the company for over 30 years. His loyalty is only exceeded by his superb knowledge of all aspects of automobile repair. There’s nothing he can’t fix. Kevin Young, Charlie’s son, inherited his father’s work ethic and was another true asset to the shop as he provided most of the preparation and all the refinishing work. Kevin is very detail oriented which makes him an excellent painter. Bryan Owens brought an abundance of mechanical knowledge with him to the team and was also a very important asset in researching and addressing codes that must

Throughout the 45 years, Baxter’s has had some talented, dedicated, remarkable employees. Among them, most notably are Donal Driggers, Ricky Dukes, Kelvin Futch and Terry Brown, who left a lasting impression on the entire organization. Their contributions to the shop were immeasurable and they have been sorely missed.

be repaired, relearned, and cleared because of a collision. When customers first walked into the shop, they were mad because they did something which caused their wreck or they’re mad because someone else ran into them. Sherri Jenkins always had a smile on her face as she gently consoled customers and started the process to get their vehicle back to what it was one minute before the crash. Not only did Sherri provide our first impression,

but she was also critical to the parts process as every part went through her office. David and Holly are pleased that Kaitlyn and Joe, their children, also worked with the business. Kaitlyn began working in the office as an estimator but soon found that she enjoyed assisting Kevin with prepping the vehicles before painting. Kaitlyn enjoys working with her hands, she plans to stay busy in her own shop, “The Printed Gardenia”, where she makes customized glitter cups and tee shirts. As a talented floral designer, she also will continue to help at “Always the Best Florist”. Since the towing service will remain operational, Joe has and will continue to be an important part of the towing business. Joe will finish his last year at the University of Georgia with a Chemistry degree, once the towing business closes. His plan is to become a chemist. Behind the scenes, the staff become individuals who provide free car repair for elderlywidowed church ladies, serve our country in Iraq and Afghanistan, work as youth ministers, volunteer as Red

Cross workers, and many other kind and selfless acts. David himself is a Mason and has over 40 years in the Volunteer Fire Department.

truly value the friendships that they acquired over the years. There are so many customers that they will miss seeing. David and Holly say “it’s been our honor to live, work and socialize while owning a business in the community that we grew up in. Thank you all for the memories.”

Good luck to them as they retire and begin the next part of their lives.TCL

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For Every Individual

written By Pam Waters | Photos Provided by The Fountain’s and the Norman’s

a friendship

for life

Evan Fountain and Blake Norman’s competitive friendship leads to medical careers.

IIt is rare indeed for the valedictorian and salutatorian of the same class from a small Southeast Georgia high school to become medical doctors.

However, Evan Fountain and Blake Norman, both, now in their mid-30s, are doctors with distinguished careers in their fields of study. Friends since grade school, the two have inspired each other in various ways.

While Evan now lives on St. Simons Island, Georgia, Blake resides in Alabama, where he is on the faculty at University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital.

Both are graduates of Tattnall County High School (TCHS), with Blake the valedictorian of the TCHS Class of 2007 and Evan the salutatorian, with just tenths of a point separating their grade point averages.

“We roomed together at the University of Georgia (UGA), from where we earned our degrees in Biology. We were both in the pre-med program at UGA,” said Evan.

Blake graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Georgia (UGA). Like Evan, after graduation from UGA, Blake continued his medical education at the Medical College of Georgia where he academically excelled, as did Evan.

From there, Blake chose UAB for his residency from 2015 to 2019. UAB Hospital is a large tertiary academic and research hospital in Alabama serving the entire state as well as much of Mississippi and the Florida panhandle.

“Your fellowship comes after your residency, and the fellowship is your area of specific subspecialization and practice,” explained Blake.

For Blake, these included a fellowship in Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology and then a fellowship in Anesthesiology Critical Care Medicine from 2020 to 2021 with separate board certifications in each.

Both Evan and Blake, however, were “like fish out of water,” as they described it, leaving Tattnall County and then attending college at UGA.

Evan gives Blake credit for a lot of the perseverance that he learned in plodding onward when the going was rough.

“When I entered UGA as a freshman, I was certainly not as mature or disciplined as Blake when it came to my classes. I was easily distracted, and the college social life did not help either. Blake really scolded me on not applying myself and not approaching my end goals more forcefully,” said Evan.

Evan Fountain and Blake Norman at Evan and Victoria’s wedding

Evan confides that if it had not been for Blake’s encouragement and good voice of reason, he would not have achieved the success in the medical field that he has today.

“I even came home after the first semester at UGA and told my dad (Donald Fountain) that I didn’t think I could make it,” said Evan, in reference to becoming a doctor.

“Well, at the end of the first semester, I had a 2.6 GPA and was on the verge of losing the HOPE scholarship. Then Blake lit a fire under me, and the next semester I had a 4.0. When I graduated, I had a 3.7 and Blake a 3.9,” said Evan

“Blake tore into me about my attitude after that first semester and told me it was time to step up. He held me accountable and was the Jiminy Cricket on my shoulder much of the time,” said Evan, who emphasized that Blake did not sugar coat the scoldings, either.

Blake downplays his influence on Evan, but Blake’s mother, Jeanie Norman, related that Blake was always super focused when he put his mind to what he had set as goals to accomplish, a very serious and determined

child and teenager.

Both Evan and Blake chuckle now that they are such good friends, but they were quite competitive all through high school. Evan even described the two as “frenemies” in their early relationship in middle school.

”However, I think the last time I might have oneupped Blake was in the seventh grade at Glennville Middle School. Blake was on fire after that, determined to pass me academically,” said Evan.

“Of course, we both were still socially active at UGA, always liking to go bowling together, and we are both movie buffs. But, even during college and into medical school, Blake was also working for Doctors Glen Dasher, Paul Thompson, and Chip Cowart,” said Evan.

Both young men excelled in their academics at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta. Evan attended there from 2011 to 2015, and lived in Augusta for 11 years, moving to St. Simons Island in 2022. He completed his internship and residency in Internal Medicine and stayed on as a Chief Resident as a General Internist. From there, Evan transitioned into his fellowship from 2019 to 2022, in Pulmonary and

Blake Norman and Evan Fountain at the Tattnall County High School graduation with Blake as valedictorian and Evan as salutatorian.

Critical Care, with a lot of experience gained during the worst of the COVID pandemic.

“I left there with a heavy heart, because we loved Augusta,” said Evan, referring to him and his wife, Victoria.

“I met Victoria through an online dating app in 2018 while she was a physical therapist in Lexington, South Carolina,” said Evan.

Actually, he called to rearrange their first date, asking Victoria if she wanted to “call an audible.”

“Well, we ended up going to a golf driving range because I already knew she played golf. Her first shot was an amazing 220-yard drive. I was in awe, and got on one knee and said, ‘marry me’ in jest,” said Evan, with not an inkling that she would be his future wife.

In fact, golf has always been a passion for Evan. He played golf competitively all over Southeast Georgia, competing in dozens of tournaments during high school. Donald Fountain is also an avid golfer, so the two often play together.

Victoria, up until she met Evan, had really only dabbled in playing golf. She

“Our friendship has helped shape both my life and Evan’s. We are both better men and doctors for the relationship we had as students and encouragers. We are so like-minded in many ways, and our dedication to the medical profession is one of our hallmarks in our friendship. We often have challenged each other and kept each other accountable for our professional aspirations and goals,” said Blake.

Blake and his wife, Rebecca, on their wedding day.

Blake and Rebecca Norman

played soccer and tennis, however.

“She once told me that golf was ‘an old people’s game,’ but after having so much fun playing with me, she loves it as much as I do. She even now plays with a ladies’ group on St. Simons Island on a tournament series,” he said.

Victoria earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of North Florida in Jacksonville after earning her undergraduate degree in Sports Medicine.

“Her parents, Jeff and Elizabeth Lyle, are retired Department of Defense employees, and the family lived in various places in Europe during their careers. Her father is from Athens, Georgia, and her mother is from Panama,” said Evan.

Victoria is the middle child. An older sister, Kimberly, last year joined the staff at UGA as an art teacher.

Another sister, Natalie, is a nurse in New York.

“Victoria’s parents now live in Fernandina Beach in Old Town, actually next door to Pippi Longstocking’s house, which attracts a lot of tourists,” said Evan.

“Evan and Victoria married in 2020, and moved from Augusta to St. Simons Island in 2022, finding the perfect home in Sea Palms on the fourth hole of the golf course. They take advantage of the golf course in their back yard.

Donald Fountain, Evan’s father, has recently bought a house next to Evan and Victoria, although it is a vacation/ weekend home until he retires from his job as Chief Operations Officer at Rotary Corporation.

Evan and Victoria with, young daughter, Carlyle.

Evan is one of a team of doctors at Southeast Georgia Physicians Associates-Pulmonary Medicine, which is affiliated with the hospital in Brunswick, the Southeast Georgia Health System.

“It is really a dream job. I am doing what I love and in my specialty. I was really attracted to this practice because of their very cutting-edge technology, which can diagnose lung cancer at the earliest stage. We have a cyber knife machine that pinpoints radiation in a lung nodule. I trained on this in Augusta,” said Evan, further explaining that the bronchoscopy procedure includes a robotic tool that can navigate to lung nodules as small as one centimeter and then biopsy them.

“However, one week out of every five weeks, I am on call 24 hours a day, 7 days straight at the hospital. During this time, I usually treat 30 to 40 ICU patients and often work 100 to 120 hours on those on-call weeks,” he said, even though the other weeks his office hours are Monday-Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Even though Evan feels strongly that God has led him to the perfect place to practice his specialty in pulmonary medicine and critical care, he and Victoria feel most blessed with the birth of their first child, Carlyle Leigh Fountain, on December 8, 2022.

“Bringing a child into this world has changed my entire perspective of life. Even though I became extremely focused after my initial immaturity in my first year at UGA, I became ultra serious and dedicated to medicine in the years after. But now, as a husband and father, being a good parent to Carlyle is my focus—to always do the best we can. I am eager to get home every afternoon and sit on the couch and hold Carlyle and enjoy those cuddles with her,” said Evan.

“I once was on the go all the time. It was work, running, golf, and biking. Carlyle is the change that makes me want to come home and to be with her and Victoria,” he said.

“Victoria has embraced motherhood. She said the best gift that I’ve ever given her is to be able to be home with our daughter every day and to be a full-time wife and mother,” said Evan, with Carlyle a happy baby who always has a smile and sleeps 12 hours a night. Evan and Victoria are expecting their second child in the fall.

The family would not be complete without the couple’s two dogs, both rescues, Abraham Baxter, a fiveyear-old Golden Retriever/Lab mix, and Yonah Bear, a four-year-old German Shepherd mix.

“Carlyle loves watching the dogs, and they are patient with her, allowing her to hug and pet them. They are

Blake and Evan visiting the Atlanta Zoo while they were students at UGA.

Evan and Victoria Fountain

often her entertainment as she watches the dogs nip and play with each other,” said Evan, with the dogs usually taking over the family couch.

“Carlyle has allowed Victoria and me to see the unconditional love you feel for your child. I feel very blessed, really thankful for the divine intervention that has channeled my professional medical career and now a change in my priorities to my family. I know I am just plain lucky to be in the position I am today and back near home and my dad as well as being close to Victoria’s parents in Fernandina,” he added.

Evan is also an avid runner, as is his sister, Emily, an attorney mainly specializing in litigation with a large firm in Nashville, Tennessee. Emily’s boyfriend ran track and cross country at Princeton as did Emily at UGA. She recently ran in the Boston Marathon.

Evan was always close to his mother’s (Mary’s) parents, Lauree and Eugene Dasher, recalling big meals that he and his sister shared with their first cousins, Caroline and Catherine, the

daughters of Carol (Mary’s sister) and Henry Strickland.

“We were relegated to the back porch where we as children, even as teenagers, ate on a glass-topped table. We watched a lot of sports on Sunday afternoons on TV and swam in their pool. I have a lot of good memories of eating boiled peanuts and homemade ice cream at my grandparents’ house,” he said.

“My dad’s father, Olin Carlisle Fountain, died before I was nine years old. My dad’s mother, Mary, lived to age 90. She made the best sweet tea, maybe a little heavy on the sugar but so good. She also kept oatmeal creme Debbie cakes over her microwave for us as grandkids,” said Evan.

Blake, too, found his perfect mate in his wife, Rebecca, who is from the Birmingham, Alabama, area. He has found some balance, besides just work, in his life since their marriage four years ago. The two were introduced by mutual friends, dating for three years before their engagement and marriage in 2020.

“It is really a dream job. I am doing what I love and in my specialty. I was really attracted to this practice because of their very cuttingedge technology, which can diagnose lung cancer at the earliest stage. We have a cyber knife machine that pinpoints radiation in a lung nodule. I trained on this in Augusta,” said Evan, further explaining that the bronchoscopy procedure includes a robotic tool that can navigate to lung nodules as small as one centimeter and then biopsy them.

Blake and Evan “erupting” a volcano for students at an elementary school while at UGA.

Blake is serious and focused on his medical profession. The medical care that he renders includes being a cardiothoracic anesthesiologist during heart and lung surgery and caring for patients around surgery as an intensivist in the Cardiac Surgery ICU.

“I’ve had specialized training for cardiac and thoracic surgery and critical care management in the ICU setting,” said Blake.

“That is my environment, and I am completely hospital based, without specific office hours. However, I have somewhat erratic schedules. My basic day is working in the CVOR (operating room) from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. and then on-call some evenings until 7 p.m. or 8 p.m.,” he said.

“When in the ICU, I am on 12-hour shifts from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. or 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., depending on which ICU I am in,” he added, with 12 hours a day seven days a week once per month.

When asked if he would describe himself as a workaholic, Blake hesitated, but Rebecca laughed, saying ”No.”

“She understands my hours, since she is an ICU nurse and now a Pediatric CRNP (Nurse Practitioner) in Anesthesiology . She is aware of the commitments you make to provide medical care to often the sickest patients when you decide to enter this field,” he added. Rebecca works in the anesthesia clinic at Children’s of Alabama located next to UAB.

“Even though I may often work 100 to 120 hours during a two-week period at UAB, I have probably about a hundred anesthesiology colleagues. We are all part of a group, so there is flexibility, or balance, in our schedules. When my shift ends, I hand over my patient to another colleague, so I know my patients are managed by another specialist after I leave the hospital,” he said.

“I was extremely blessed to know what I wanted to do as a teenager, although I had first thought I would become a veterinarian or pharmacist. I worked at Strickland’s Pharmacy in Glennville part time as my first after-school job,” said Blake.

“I found I had a passion for medicine when I began working part time for Doctors Glen Dasher, Paul Thompson, and Chip Cowart at their family medical practice when I was in high school. I did a lot of charting for them, and I realized that their job did not end when the doors closed. They still had to make sure the charts were updated and then followed up on test results and other notes,” he said.

“During college and medical school, these doctors allowed me to work for them in between semesters and when I was home from medical school. They have continued to mentor me to this day, and I am most appreciative of their influence in my life,” said Blake.

“Although distance separates us, Evan and I are still best friends. We were the best man in each other’s weddings, and we are both beneficiaries of the support of our families and this Glennville community,” he said.

Victoria and Evan with Carlyle

Blake and Rebecca Norman

Both young men excelled in their academics at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta. Evan attended there from 2011 to 2015, and lived in Augusta for 11 years, moving to St. Simons Island just in the last year. He completed his internship and residency in Internal Medicine and stayed on as a Chief Resident as a General Internist. From there, Evan transitioned into his fellowship from 2019 to 2022, in Pulmonary and Critical Care, with a lot of experience gained during the worst of the COVID

One of those vital influences came about through First Baptist Church of Glennville and their participation in Student Leadership University. This was a Christian leadership summer camp abroad.

“Over three summers, Evan and I were able to travel to Orlando, Florida; Washington, D.C.; London, England; and Paris, France. We were exposed to other like-minded students who gave us different perspectives of our world and the importance of accountability to our callings. Our families and community rallied around us to enable us to be able to take these wonderful trips,” explained Blake.

“My family and Evan’s family always boosted our educational pursuits and medical goals. Our upbringing and our extended families played a positive role in our lives,” said Blake.

Blake is the only child of Jeanie Norman and Joey Norman of Glennville. Blake has always been close to his grandparents. Jeanie’s mother, Sandra Cobb, died after an extended neurological illness, being frequently hospitalized at MCG in Augusta when Blake was in medical school there. Jeanie’s father, Carroll Cobb, died a few years later from complications from myasthenia gravis, a muscle weakness disease. Blake’s grandfather, Joe Norman, died from aortic stenosis, a disorder of one of the heart valves, but his Grandmother Joyce Norman is still in good health.

“Probably one of the reasons I ventured into ICU care was being near my grandmother Cobb those many months she was receiving ICU care in Augusta. That exposure to critical care of my grandparents reinforced what I was considering to choose as my medical career path,” he said.

Blake fully enjoys his clinical practice, but also is the Associate Program Director in the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine at UAB.

Evan and Victoria on their wedding day

Blake and Evan at UGA

In this capacity ushering in new residents, he helps to guide them in their training.

“I enjoy the teaching realm and foresee staying in that role, too. Through teaching, one can impart a lot of improvements in quality, safety, and how we promote the best outcome, which is crucial to my role as Value Officer for my Department and Hospital,“ he added.

“I am excited and anticipate that I will have a long career at UAB. Birmingham is an interesting place. I interviewed for my residency all over the Southeast, and I found the ideal place at UAB. Birmingham has a more small town feel with a large hospital for the subspecialties I was looking for. It’s unlike Atlanta, and I like the slower paced city that it is. Of course, it is much larger than Glennville, which is home, but UAB offers the best of both community and a large hospital,” said Blake. He and Rebecca live in a suburb of the city of Birmingham.

In his medical position, Blake often hears the comment that anesthesiologists “put people to sleep” for surgery, but he said waking the patient after a safe surgery is most vital.

“The effectiveness and safety for the patient for the duration of the surgery and their immediate recovery after are crucial and to be able to know that all went as well as possible,” he said.

“I am still quite fond of my alma mater of UGA. Rebecca is an Auburn University graduate, and she is now a UGA fan except when UGA is playing Auburn. I have a lot of good memories with Evan there and now Rebecca at UGA, which is steeped in tradition. I proposed to Rebecca on the UGA campus next to Herty Field,” said Blake. The two were married at Mountain Brook Baptist Church in Birmingham.

Blake and Rebecca enjoy traveling, and in the summer of 2022 the two took a delayed honeymoon to Europe. (When they married, COVID was an issue, and Blake was also in the midst of one of his fellowships.) They visited the United Kingdom and France, and they enjoyed another trip to Europe last fall for two weeks to Switzerland and Italy.

“We also enjoy my mom visiting us during the holidays since I often cannot take the extended time off during these dates,” he said.

Like Evan and Victoria, a canine pet is part of their household. The couple’s three-year-old Jake is a Rhodesian Ridgeback, and he is special to Blake and Rebecca.

Blake and Evan at their graduation at Medical College of Georgia

For Evan, the friendship with Blake and his influence in his life is one he credits to this day to keeping him on a straight and focused path, to push the distractions aside.

Both men today are family oriented, taking seriously their medical responsibilities to their patients that often override personal plans.

The world is indeed is a better place with these two doctors whose boyhood home was the small town of Glennville, Georgia—but one that nurtured and mentored them to the heights they have reached today.  TCL

Watermelon Creek

Jack Strickland Rehabilitation and Wellness provides both outpatient and inpatient therapy for Evans Memorial Hospital.

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