Sara George Johnston Nelson

Funeral services for Sara George Johnston Nelson, 79, of Ashburn, currently residing in Saint Simon’s Island, will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025 at Rose Hill Cemetery in Ashburn, GA at 11:00 A.M. Sara passed away Monday at Southeast Georgia Health System in Brunswick, GA, following heart complications.

Sara was born in Turner County, GA to the late George and Merle Johnston. Throughout her life she was a member of numerous clubs and organizations. She was a member of Ashburn’s United Methodist Church, acting as their Treasurer, and made many baby blankets over the years. After moving to Saint Simon’s Island, she joined Wesley Church and worked with their Respite Group. Outside of her dedication to her Churches and her family, Sara had a zest for life and enjoyed it to its fullest extent. She organized card games, class reunions, and trips all across the country—trips she lovingly referred to as “Sara’s Adventures.” However, of the many titles Sara claimed, her family insists that “Mama” and “GaGa” are the ones that describe her best.

Sara was the wife of the late Earl Henry Nelson, married 47 years. She is survived by her partner, Doug Ballard, Saint Simon’s Island, GA. She is survived by two sons and daughters in law: David & Ginger Nelson, Tifton, GA. and Earl Henry ‘Speedy’ & Kelley Nelson, Jr., Milledgeville, GA. She is also survived by her daughter and son in law, Connie & Von Hobbs, Hiawassee, GA. She is survived by nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Also surviving is her brother & sister in law, Chris & Anita Johnston, Cobb, GA, as well as her sister, Grace Gilpin, Lincolnton, GA.

Serving as pallbearers will be Sara’s grandchildren, Tyler Nelson, Matt Nelson, Brett Nelson, John Henry Hobbs, Harrison Hobbs, J. T. Nelson, Blake Nelson, Sara Beth Hobbs Scott and Frances Allene Nelson.

Sara will be missed by all that knew her, but her family and friends find comfort in the fact that she’s off on her greatest adventure.