Denton Leamond Dial
Denton Leamond Dial
WAYCROSS — Mr. Denton Leamond , 68, affectionately known as “Poppy,” passed away suddenly Saturday morning, December 28, 2024, at Memorial Satilla Health. was born November 11, 1956 in Homerville to the late Benjamin Franklin and Beulah Mae Booth . He was raised in Manor. graduated from Ware County High School in 1974. He received his education specialist degree in administrative supervision from Valdosta State University. dedicated his life to education which included teaching at Manor Elementary School, assistant principal at Ware County Junior High School, and principal at Emerson Park and Williams Heights Elementary Schools. He retired from the Ware County School System as principal of Waresboro Elementary School in 2009. retired from his professional career so he could begin his most treasured one with the title of “Poppy.” In 2011, began serving on the Ware County School Board, and served with distinction as chairman the past two years. He was a member and deacon of Kettle Creek Church. was also a member of the Waycross Exchange Club, Satilla Regional Water Department, and the Georgia School Boards Association. He was also associated with the Church of God of Prophecy for most of his life and was a previous member and deacon at Crossview Church. In addition to his parents, was preceded in death by his brother, Delvis ; and father-inwould
law, J. W. O’Berry.
Survivors include his wife of 45 years, Sandee O’Berry of Waycross; his daughter, Aimee Mancil (husband Joey) of Waycross; granddaughter, Annie Mancil; his beloved maltese, Bella; siblings, Donald D. (Brenda), Darell (Brenda), Dee White (Bob) and Diane Blount (Bill); sister-inlaw, Joan ; mother-inlaw, Delores O’Berry; sister-in-law, Bobbie Wildes (Dwight); brotherin- law, Rickey O’Berry (Donna); best friend, George Leggett; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A funeral service was held Wednesday, January 1, 2025 at Kettle Creek Church.
Burial followed in the church cemetery.
Members of the Ware County School Board served as honorary pallbearers.
Sympathy may be expressed by posting to his tribute wall at www.musicfuneralhome. com.
Music Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.