Barbara Jean Poncela

Barbara Jean Whatley Toland Poncela, age 81, of Acworth, Georgia, passed away Thursday, January 8, 2026, at her home.

Barbara, best known as "Nanny", was born in Griffin, Georgia, on April 30, 1944. She was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel Whatley and Lucile Dunn Whatley Alford; husbands, Gene Toland and Raymond "Ray" Foy Poncela; son, Tim Toland; stepson, Tommy Poncela; and brothers, Esric Whatley, Kenneth Whatley, and Billy Whatley. Barbara retired as unit secretary from Spalding Regional Hospital. She had many enjoyable hobbies such as playing Solitaire, completing crossword puzzles, gardening, and visiting Lake Oconee. Barbara also made sure to drink her Mike's Hard Lemonade on a daily basis.

Survivors include her children, Carol Toland (Landa Stubbs), Teresa Henry (Robert), and Sammy Toland (Laurie); daughter-in-law, Jill Pollard Cummingham; grandchildren, Melissa Andrews, Taylor Toland, Abby Toland Freyermuth (Chris), Clint Toland, and Cody Toland; great-grandchildren, Abbie Skye Toland, Ryker Andrews, Jacob Toland-Hough, Kayleigh Toland, Grayson Sanders, Ella Sanders, and Sawyer Toland; stepson, Mike Poncela (Paige) and son Chase; stepdaughter, Sandy Collins (Ricky) and sons Bailey and Casey; stepdaughter-in-law, Julie Poncela and daughters Nicole and Elizabeth; and loyal companions, Angel and Cheyene.

Visitation with the family will be on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm at Conner-Westbury Funeral Home, followed by a service in the chapel. Pastor Andy McGill will officiate.