Edward Ellis "Eddie" Cleland

Edward Ellis “Eddie” Cleland, age 66, of Baxley passed away Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at Appling Healthcare.

Eddie was born November 9, 1959, in Appling County and was the son of the late Mike Dencil Cleland and the late Malzie Ellis Cleland. A devoted member of Friendship Congregational Christian Church, Eddie served his church family in many roles over the years, including chairman of the cemetery and grounds committee, member of the building committee, church trustee, and former choir member.Eddie retired from Georgia Power Company after 32 years of dedicated service. He continued to serve his community as a member of the Appling County Tax Assessor Board and was proud to be a mason.Above all, Eddie cherished his family. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he found great joy in spending time with them. He also loved the outdoors, especially camping and fishing

He is survived by his wife, Shea Cleland of Baxley; sons, Michael (Jason) Cleland of Columbia, MD; Chad (Amanda) Cleland, Layne (Falone) Parker both of Baxley and Cody (Maci) Parker of Ball Ground; sister, Debbie (Wendell) Bullard of McRae. Grandchildren, Cara Bryant, Kate Hunter, Ellie Hunter, Cade Cleland, Logan Parker, Braden Parker, Liam Parker, Malley Grace Parker, Mason Carter, Jackson Carter and Madi Parker; and several nieces and nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Monday, January 12, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Friendship Congregational Christian Church with Rev. Barry Teutsch and Rev. C. J. Keister officiating.

 Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Michael Cleland, Chad Cleland, Layne Parker, Cody Parker, Braden Parker, Hollis Bullard, Jason Kepp and Mike McDaniel.

Honorary pallbearers will be his former co-workers with Georgia Power Company and all family and friends in attendance

Visitation will be held on Sunday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Friendship Congregational Christian Church. 

Remembrances may be made to Friendship Congregational Christian Church Cemetery Fund, 900 Friendship Church Rd., Baxley, GA 31513. 

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.