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Essie Mae Saxton
Lester Lackey & Sons Funeral Home
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Essie Mae Saxton was born on Oct. 27, 1956 to the Late Rev. Clari and Ruby Saxton in Atlanta.

Essie obtained an education at R.L. Cousins High School through the Newton County Public Schools System. She was a dedicated employee at Pactiv Corporation in Covington for many years until her health declined.

Essie was a very strong-minded woman that handled the family business. Under her coat of armor was an extremely thoughtful, caring and loving lady. Essie was there for family and friends in their time of need. She was very family-oriented and loved entertaining everyone. She especially enjoyed cooking her famous macaroni and cheese dish, hoppin’ johns and her big juicy homemade hamburgers! Dancing, singing, fishing, and playing cards were also a few of her favorite things to do.

Ms. Essie Mae Saxton departed this life on Aug. 13, 2018. She has been called away to the land is free from care of this world. She was Preceded in Death by two sisters, Mrs. Ruthie Smith and Mrs. Linda Smith; one Brother, Mr. Pearlie Felder; one sister-in-law, Mrs. Caroline Saxton; one step-son, Mr. Dexter Parker; one nephew, Mr. Christopher Reed.

She Leaves Her Life’s Essence of Love to her two sons, Mr. Kunita Parker and Mr. Qunita Parker; two grand-daughters, Takarra Parker And Kintala Parker; two sisters, Mr. & Mrs. Victor (Minnie) Riddle and Ms. Mary Ann Saxton; five brothers, Mr. & Mrs. James Felder, Mr. & Mrs. William Henry Faust, Mr. Larry Saxton, Mr. Jerimiah Saxton and Mr. Ray Saxton; one guardian-nephew, Mr. & Mrs. Antwan Smith; One Step-Son: Mr. Tim Parker, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and numerous of dear Friends.

The funeral service began at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 21 at Bethlehem Baptist Church, at 1877 Usher St. in Covington with the Rev. Karen Kelly officiating. 

Obituary: Otis Daniel Criswell
Otis Daniel Criswell

Otis Daniel Criswell, age 72, of Covington, Georgia, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born on February 26, 1953, in Athens, Georgia to Melvin Daniel (Coach) Criswell and Veeda Claire Kirkland. 

A proud graduate of Newton County high school, class of 1971. Otis went on to join the army National Guard, serving 6 years. He dedicated 30+ years of his career as a senior Claims representative for George Farm Bureau.

Beyond his professional life, Otis was a passionate University of Georgia football fan. During football season, he could always be found on the deck grilling with family and friends with at least two TVs playing the game. He also loved traveling with his family for martial arts tournaments across the country and cherished time spent relaxing on the beach.

Otis is preceded in death by his parents, Melvin Daniel (Coach) Criswell, Veeda Claire Kirkland and brother, Duane Criswell.

Left to cherish his memory or his children, Jamie (Tony) Pascale Loganville, Georgia, Brian (Carlie) Criswell of Barnesville, Georgia, and Matt Criswell of Covington Georgia; Grandchildren: Kayla and Emma; sister, Donna Criswell Hiett; brother, Dallas (Robin) Criswell; nieces and nephews, Michael, Kimberly, Kevin, Brandon, Preston, and Destiny. 

Otis will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His memory will live on through the many lives he touched. A celebration of Otis ‘s life will be held at Faith Tabernacle Church. 631 Ralph Rd - Conyers, Georgia 30094 on Sunday, April 6, 2025 at 3:00 pm.