Sallie L. Chatman (7/20/2026)
In Loving Memory
Sallie L. Chatman
June 24, 1919 – July 20, 2026
“A Lady of Grace”
Sallie L. Chatman, the longest-living resident of Charlton County, was born on June 24, 1919. She lived through more than a century of history, witnessing dramatic changes in her community, her nation, and the world.
Sallie was the daughter of the late Willie Lockson and Sadie Rushin Lockson. She completed the highest grade offered by the African American school she attended during her childhood. In 1938, she married the late Samuel R. Chatman, a decorated World War II veteran and educator. Together, they raised four children: Claudette, James, Yvonne, and Dwight. As the years passed, she became lovingly known to both her family and the community simply as “Mother.”
Throughout her life, Sallie devoted herself to her family as a loving homemaker. Once her children were old enough to attend school, she returned to the workforce, spending many years as both a cook and a skilled seamstress. When asked why she chose to work even once she didn’t have to, she would simply say that she wanted to remain independent for as long as she was able.
That spirit of independence shaped the way she lived and the lessons she passed on to her children. She never allowed herself to become discouraged by obstacles, believing there was always another path forward. One of her son’s favorite pieces of advice was, “If one way doesn’t work, try another. There’s never just one way to solve a problem.” It was a philosophy she not only taught but faithfully lived every day.
She remained active in both her community and her church. A woman of unwavering faith, Sallie was a member of Mount Carmel Baptist Church for 75 years before later joining Greater Faith Missionary Baptist Church, where she worshipped for the remainder of her life. At both churches, she served on the Usher Board and in numerous other church auxiliaries. She passed her love for the Lord on to her children and grandchildren. A woman of great pride and presence, she loved to dress in the latest fashions and carried herself with grace wherever she went. She not only had a wonderful sense of style, but she also had an incredible sense of humor.
Sallie found great joy in gardening, a pastime she shared with her devoted daughters, Claudette and Yvonne, whose loving companionship and care became one of life’s greatest blessings. Her grandchildren especially remember the lemons she would proudly pick and share from her beloved lemon tree. She also enjoyed traveling and cruising. At the age of 100, she joined the local gym and took part in the senior classes. In 2019, in honor of her 100th birthday, the City of Folkston proclaimed June 24th “Sallie Chatman Day.” She enjoyed reading the comics in the newspaper, solving puzzles, and watching westerns on television.
During the month of June, Sallie was featured on First Coast News, celebrating the remarkable milestone of her 107th birthday. She often shared that her secret to living such a long and wonderful life was “clean living” — and no alcohol. She would also let people know that she never ate chicken—or anything with feathers. Remarkably spry and strong well into her later years, she never outgrew her habit of embracing her grandchildren, no matter how big they became. Her 107th birthday serves as a reminder of a life defined by faith, family, service, and resilience. Bishop Van Baker lovingly referred to her as a “Lady of Grace.”
Mother has left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations throughout Charlton County.
CHERISHED MEMORIES
She is survived by her son, James Chatman (Catherine) of Charlotte, North Carolina; her daughter, Yvonne Ragsdale of College Park, Georgia; and a host of grandchildren, including Anthony Smith (Emmy) of Houston, Texas; Cheryl (Roy) of Eldorado, California; Michael Chatman of Newnan, Georgia; Stanley Smith (Sheryl); Michele Chatman of Newnan, Georgia; Stacey Chatman of Newnan, Georgia; Jana Finch (Bob) of Athens, Georgia; Tara Brown (Milton) Atlanta; Jawanza Eric Clark (Jennifer) of Atlanta, Georgia; James Chatman of Charlotte, North Carolin; Justin Chatman (Rita) of Charlotte, North Carolina; Stanley Smith of Atco, NJ; along with a host of great- grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, a special cousin, Doretha Dasher, other relatives, and dear friends.
Services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday August 1st at House of Faith Missionary Baptist Church at 3365 Paxton Rd. Folkston, GA 31537. There will not be a wake/visitation. Viewing one hour prior to services on Saturday. Services will be live streamed thru our website: royalfuneralhomeinc.com
Interment in Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Folkston, Ga.
