James H. "Jake" Lovett

James H. “Jake” Lovett, devoted husband of Kay Strange Lovett, passed away peacefully on Monday evening, January 20, 2025, at Ogeechee Area Hospice in Statesboro, Georgia.

Jake was born in Blackshear, Georgia, to the late Roy Lovett and Crystal Dixon Gardner. He was a faithful member of Metter First Baptist Church, where he and his wife, Kay, were actively involved and attended the Gideon Sunday School Class.

Jake had a lifelong passion for education. He earned his associate degree from Brewton-Parker College, a bachelor's and master's degree in education from Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus, and an education specialist degree (Ed.S.) from Georgia Southern College in Statesboro. His teaching career began in Collins, Georgia, in 1975. In 1985, he joined the Candler County School System, dedicating himself to the education of local students. Later, he served in administrative roles with the Candler County Board of Education before returning to the classroom to teach until his retirement in 2004.

Jake was honored as Teacher of the Year at Metter Middle School twice during his career and was named STAR Teacher in 1989 in recognition of his dedication and impact on his students.

Following his retirement, Jake continued to serve the community in various roles, including at Ace Hardware, Kennedy Funeral Homes, and Candler County Hospital. He was a member of the Candler County Hospital Board for twelve years, serving several years as Chairman.

In addition to his parents, Jake was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Anna Kay Lovett; his sister, Sara Lovett; and his stepfather, Jim Gardner.

He is survived by his loving wife of forty-nine years, Kay Strange Lovett of Metter; his daughter, Amanda Lovett Vernon (Dustin) of Metter; his cherished grandchildren, GraceAnna Vernon and Caelan Vernon, both of Metter; his sister, Julia Hiers (Wendell) of Waycross; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Service
The funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Metter First Baptist Church. The family will receive friends at the church from 1:00 p.m. until the service begins.

Interment
Interment will follow in Lake Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Jason Jones, Jeremy Curl, Logan Lanier, Trent Franklin, Jordy Carter, Brent Carter, John Miles, and  Stanley Slater.

Honorary Pallbearers will be members of the Gideon Sunday School Class.

For those who wish to leave messages of condolence, the guestbook is available at www.kennedyfuneralhomechapels.com.

Arrangements by:
Kennedy Funeral Homes, Hooks Chapel, Metter, Georgia