Susie Mearleen Hines

Susie Mearleen Bryan Hines, 60, of Tifton, born on March 16, 1964, in Cook County, Georgia, and raised in Berrien County passed away on November 2, 2024, peacefully at her son’s residence in Omega, Georgia.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 in the chapel of Albritton Funeral Directors with Rev. Mike Bennett officiating. Interment will follow at Oakridge Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. on Monday, November 4, 2024 at the funeral home. 

Monty Spinks, Chuck Bryan, David Groover, Kalin Henderson, Colby Henderson and Rob Scott will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Eric Hall, Mark Watson, Jake Anglin, David King, Lance Downs, Drew Godfrey and Marty Allen.

 She was a cherished figure in her community, affectionately known as "mama" by many children who were blessed to know her, and lovingly referred to as a "hero" by those who appreciated her nurturing spirit and generosity. 

Throughout her life, Susie was devoted to her family, and her proudest accomplishments were undoubtedly her children and grandchildren. She derived great joy not only from her own family but also from the neighborhood children who often found comfort and kindness in her presence. Susie's home was a haven filled with love, laughter, and fresh flowers and vegetables from her beloved garden, showcasing her passion for nurturing both plants and people alike. 

Susie graduated Berrien County High School in 1982 and furthered her education, earning an associate degree in Science from ABAC. Her journey then led her to a fulfilling career as a homemaker, where she cultivated a warm and loving environment for her family. 

She is survived by her husband, Melvin O. Hines, Jr.; her sons, Melvin O. Hines, III (Rebekah) of Omega and Thomas Jacob “T.J.” Hines of Valdosta; her daughter, Kimberly Dawn "KD" Hines of Tifton; her grandchildren, Melvin O. Hines IV. (Duncan) and Hunter Hines; her sisters, Ruth (J. D.) Hall of Tifton, Alice (Byron) Saylor of Tifton, and Kathy (Jim) Williams of North Carolina; and her brothers, Charles Bryan, Grady (Jeanne) Bryan, Jr., Ed Bryan, and Billy Bryan, all of Lenox. 

Susie was preceded in death by her father, Grady T. Bryan, Sr.; her mother, Inez Jewell Brown Bryan; her sister, Christine Hardy; and her brother, Thomas E. Bryan (T.E.). 

Flowers accepted or donations may be made to to City of Hope Cancer Treatment Center, 600 Celebrate Life Parkway, Newnan, Ga., 30265. 

Her legacy of love and kindness will forever be remembered in the hearts of those she touched, and her spirit will continue to inspire everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. 

Albritton Funeral Directors is in charge of the arrangements.