Julia 'Paunee' Smith Thornton

Julia “Paunee” Smith Thornton, 75, of Nahunta passed away late Saturday night (December 9, 2017) at her residence after an extended illness.

Born in Hickox, GA her parents were Claude Smith and Julia Rozier Smith. She is also preceded in death by her husband, James “Jimmy” Thornton; and 2 brothers, J.V. “Pic” Smith and Kenneth “Tinksie” Smith.

Paunee was a nutritionist for Brantley County Board of Education, who loved being with her great grandchildren. She also enjoyed baking and dancing.

Survivors include her 2 daughters and sons-in-law, Dee & Benito Rebollo of Nahunta and Jade and Jeff Walls of Tifton; 2 granddaughters, Danielle & Morris Freeman of Nahunta and Breanna Walls of Tifton; 3 great grandchildren, Kylee Harris, Brayden Nichols, and Addison Harris all of Nahunta; a sister-in-law, Mary Lou Smith of Nahunta; and also several nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service Tuesday afternoon (December 12, 2017) from 2-3pm at Frye Funeral Home.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday afternoon (December 12, 2017) at 3PM at the chapel of Frye Funeral Home with Rev. Ion Johns and Rev. E.C. Crews officiating. Burial will follow in New Hope Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Matt Washam, Ausecenico Rebollo, Agustin Rebollo, Charles Lynn, Eric Hayes, and Dale Johns.

Arrangements are with Frye Funeral Home, Nahunta.

The family will be receiving friends at Dee Rebollo residence, 4469 Buffalo Creek Dr. Nahunta GA 31553.

Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online registry at www.fryefh.com.