Joe Frank Sands

A celebration of life for Joe Frank Sands, who died December 29, 2014, was held Monday, Jan. 5, from the chapel of Smith and Sons Funeral Home, 923 Funderburg Drive, Monticello. Rev. Terry Glawson officiated; burial was in South View Cemetery.

Mr. Sands was born March 8, 1941 to the parentage of the late Benne Sands, Sr., and the late Mrs. Annie Mae Barron.

He was united in Holy Matrimony with Georgia Ree Oliver on April 22, 1961, who was a devoted and loving wife, to this union six children were born.

Mr. Sands departed this life on December 29, 2014 at Newton General Hospital.

He was educated in the Monticello public school system. Mr. Sands was employed earlier in life at the Benton Supply Grocery Store, and later sought employment at the Feldspar Corporation, where he was gainfully employed for 33 years as a loyal and dedicated employee. After retirement, he enjoyed gardening and basking in nature; also, spending time with his family, grandchildren and friends in the neighborhood. He enjoyed listening to Bible stories and watching all Georgia sports (Braves, Falcons and the Georgia Bulldogs). He also enjoyed watching western shows.

Preceding him in death were his beloved son, Tracy Sands, Sr.; two brothers, Sammie and Bennie, Jr., and a sister, Mary Lizzie Sands.

He leaves to cherish his memories, his loving wife of 53 years, Georgia Sands; two devoted sons, Larry (Sharon) and Carey Sands; three precious daughters, Joanne (Charles) Jackson, Nora and Sandra Sands, all of Monticello; grandchildren, Vinita, William (C.J.), Tracy (Tray), Tonya, Martin, Chris, Danielle, Montel, Chenera, Terrance and Kanika; and two great-grandchildren; three sisters, Sallie Kate Sands, Eulady Johnson and Christine Clemons; two brothers, Ernest A. Sands and David Sands; four brothers-in-law, Tommie Clemons, Earl Johnson, Willie and George Oliver, a sister-in-law, Emma Jean Sands, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Smith and Sons Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.