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Friday, September 11, 2026
1:00 - 5:00 pm (Eastern time)
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Starts at 11:00 am (Eastern time)
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Willie Lou Nedd Leary, lovingly known as “Sis,” found eternal peace on the morning of September 3, 2026, at Atrium Health Navicent in Macon, GA, surrounded by her family. Born November 10, 1940, in Macon County, GA, she was the daughter of the late Jessie and Rosa Mae Nedd and Willie Tip and Rosa Marie Mathis.
Sis was a proud and lifelong resident of her community. She attended the Macon County public school system and was a graduate of D.F Douglas High School in Montezuma, GA. Throughout her professional life, Sis spent many years caring for patients at The Oaks Nursing Home in Marshallville, GA, and Summerhill Senior Living Community in Perry, GA. Caring for others was more than just a career, it was her calling. She performed her work with compassion, patience, and genuine concern for those entrusted to her care, a commitment she upheld faithfully until her retirement.
Even in her later years, Sis never lost her desire to show love, concern, and kindness to those around her, all while expressing deep gratitude for the exceptional care she received in return. Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life, and she held a profound love for her Glorious Hope Primitive Baptist Church family.
Sis had a gentle soul, a spunky attitude, and a beautiful smile that could brighten any room. She found joy in cooking and preparing meals for the people she loved, pouring her heart into every dish.
She loved settling in to watch her favorite “stories” and gospel videos, simple moments that brought her comfort. Her life stands as a testament to the beauty and purpose found in caring for others.
In addition to her parents, Jessie and Rosa Mae Nedd, and Willie Tip and Rosa Marie Mathis, Sis was preceded in death by her husband, Joesph Leary; sisters Edna Nedd and Lilly Mae Fluellen; and her brothers Ray, Lee, and Johnny Nedd.
She leaves to cherish her memory, her sisters Iris Rumph of Perry, GA; Jessie Mae Sipp of Orlando, FL; Betty Engram of Montezuma, GA; and Martha Willis of White Plains, NY.
She leaves behind a legacy that will continue through her children: April Leary (Chris) of Montezuma, GA; Elaine “Cassie” Leary of Marshallville, GA; Grady Leary of Warner Robins, GA; Sharonda “Vette” Leary of Byron, GA; Jeffery “Terry” Leary of Marshallville, GA. Grandchildren
Tourris Leary, Damonian Leary, Quandasjah Holmes, Shandon Walker, M.Sgt. Shawanta Leary, Tianna Goodman, Deonta Leary, Brandon Walker and Christopher Leary. Ten great -grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. Devoted friends Bessie Smith, Jessie Mae Canady, Elouise Holmes, and Pauline Hill. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Though her earthly journey has come to an end, the love Sis gave will continue to live on through the many lives she touched. Her beautiful smile, her strength and her caring heart will forever remain in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.
Rest peacefully, Sis. Your work here is done, but your love and legacy will live on forever
Friday, September 11, 2026
1:00 - 5:00 pm (Eastern time)
Edwards Small Mortuary LLC
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Starts at 11:00 am (Eastern time)
Glorious Hope Primitive Baptist Church
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Willow Lake Memorial Gardens
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