Georgia Stevens Garland, age 96, of Bakersville, passed on to her heavenly home on Friday, July 25th, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. A native of Mitchell County, she was a daughter of the late Jess and Clarrissia Hoilman Stevens. She is also preceded in death by her loving husband, Oliver Garland; a daughter, Carolyn Reese; and three sisters: Ruby, Nell and Josie.
Georgia was a devoted mother, a cherished friend, and a woman of deep faith. A lifelong member of Rockdale Baptist Church, she gave her heart to the Lord there as a young girl and remained a faithful member throughout her life. Her love for her family was evident in everything she did, especially the way she cared for her children, and her job as a wife and mother was more important to her than anything in life. When one of her daughter’s came to visit, she would bring her little dog, Rue, who would always cuddle up and sleep with her at night. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures, sewing and making things, searching for treasures at thrift stores and yard sales, and gardening. She did a lot of canning each season, and loved all tending to her array of flowers. Her generous spirit, warm heart, and quiet strength will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Left to cherish her memory are her 4 daughters: Teal Burleson (Ronnie) of Bakersville, Janet Smiley (Jay) of Mocksville, Judy Hensley (Chuck) of Spruce Pine, and Joyce Riddle (Gary) of Bakersville; 4 sons: Gerald Garland (Shirley) of Bakersville, Kenny Garland (Sherry) of Bakersville, Jessie Garland (Teresa) of Spruce Pine, and Burl Garland (Ellen) of Bakersville; 7 grandchildren: Jessica Austin (Jonathan), John “Robert” Ollis (Melanie “Mel”), Michael Hensley (Amanda), Amanda Hensley (Andy), Sandy Silver (Mike), Kacey Garland (Trace Clemons), and Justin Garland (Tia); 10 great-grandchildren; 4 great, great-grandchildren; sister, Jacquline Stockton of Bakersville; and special friend, Harriet Hopson of Bakersville.
Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, July 28th at the Garland Cemetery in Bakersville. Pastor Jeremy Smith and Pastor Shane Gunter will officiate.
Memorial donations may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of the Blue Ridge at 236 Hospital Drive, Spruce Pine, NC 28777. To send online condolences, please visit our website at www.yanceyfuneralservice.com.
