Jennifer Elkins Mathis

Jennifer Elkins Mathis, 52, of Bainbridge, finished her race on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at First Church of God with Pastor Josiah Adams officiating. Interment will follow at Oak City Cemetery with Austin Wade, Aubrey Hand, Ricky Britt, Dale Salter, Jase Godwin, Cole Henderson, Shawn Dean, and Jeff Moran serving as active pallbearers.

The family will receive friends immediately following the service. Online visitors may sign the guest register at www.bryantfuneralga.com. Memorial donations may be made to First Church of God, 901 E. College Street, Bainbridge, GA 39819 or Memorial Hospital & Manor Foundation (earmarked for Activities at Memorial Manor), 1500 E. Shotwell Street, Bainbridge, GA 39819.

Jennifer Deon Elkins was born December 21, 1973, in Bainbridge, GA, the daughter of Earl D. “Boley” Elkins and Marilyn Williamson Elkins. She was a graduate of Bainbridge High School, Class of 1994. Jennifer was a member of First Church of God.

A warrior. Brave. Strong. Fierce. Jennifer was a light wherever she went, never complaining regardless of the cards she was dealt. She was a tad bossy (at least to her brothers) and liked what she liked. Trinkets of every sort carried special meaning and always came with a story. Jennifer enjoyed crafting, making angel bracelets, and collecting Beanie Babies.

Shopping anywhere was a favorite pastime with Hobby Lobby, Michael’s, Rural King, Dollar Tree, and Wal-Mart rounding out her top 5. Cracker Barrel was always her restaurant of choice and, of course, she did a little shopping there too. Jennifer’s makeup and nails were on point just in case an unexpected trip popped up.

She defied the odds. She faced every obstacle with courage, grace, and strength. She adapted to every change with nary a complaint. She taught us what it means to live and love.

Survivors include her brothers, Jamie Elkins (Kristy) and Rob Elkins (Grace); her grandmother, LaJean Williamson; her nieces & nephews, Addison & Aubrey, Ella Grace & Cain, and Graydon; her aunts & uncles, Carole & Bob Henderson and Sherry & Henry Chambless; her stepfather, Tommy Lashley; her stepmother, René Elkins; and a host of extended family. In addition to her parents, Jennifer was preceded in death by her grandparents, James Williamson and James & Lois Baker.

The Elkins Family extends their sincerest gratitude to Memorial Manor Staff and Dr. Evan Smallwood for their kind, compassionate, and loving care.