News Summary
The Columbus community comes together to honor the memories of three beloved residents: Billy Joe Tankersley, Mike Pressley, and George H. Whitaker. Each left an indelible mark on their families and the community through their love, work, and dedication. Memorial services are being planned as the community reflects on their legacies amid a time of grief and resilience.
Columbus, GA — The community is coming together to mourn the loss of three cherished residents, Billy Joe Tankersley, Mike Pressley, and George H. Whitaker, who each made significant contributions to their families and the surrounding area.
Billy Joe Tankersley: A Life Well-Lived
Billy Joe Tankersley, aged 86, passed away peacefully at home on July 2, 2025. He was a devoted husband to Belinda Anderson Tankersley and leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication to his family. Born in Lee County, Virginia, he was the son of Clyde William and Lula Virginia Martin Tankersley.
Mike Pressley: A Dedicated Electrician
Mike Pressley, 64, of Lee County, GA, tragically lost his life on the job on December 13, 2024. A memorial service is scheduled for December 19, 2024, at Philema Road Baptist Church in Leesburg, GA. Mike was well-respected in the community, having graduated from Lee County High School and worked as a master electrician with over 40 years of service at Gordon Electric. Born in San Antonio, TX, to Robert and Imogene Pressley, Mike was known for his love of hunting, fishing, and spending quality time with his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Beverly Pressley, two children, and four grandchildren. The visitation will occur from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM prior to the funeral service. In his memory, the family encourages donations to be made to Philema Road Baptist Church or Shriners Children’s Hospital.
George H. Whitaker: A Pillar of the Legal Community
George H. Whitaker, 74, of Sanford, passed away on June 8, 2025, after a long battle with dementia. Born in Robeson County, he was the son of Paul David Whitaker and Mary Thompson Whitaker. George graduated from both East Carolina University and the North Carolina Central University School of Law, beginning his law practice in Sanford in 1987. Over the last three decades, he served the community diligently and is remembered fondly by his peers and clients. George is survived by his wife, Molly Lawrence Whitaker, a son, a daughter, granddaughters, and numerous family members. A celebration of his life is scheduled for June 12, 2025, at Saint Luke United Methodist Church in Sanford. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Wake Forest University School of Medicine Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center.
Cynthia Lee Marroquin: A 25-Year State Employee
Also remembered is Cynthia Lee Marroquin, 82, of Columbus, GA, who passed away on March 4, 2025, at Piedmont Midtown. Her funeral services will be held on March 8, 2025, at McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory. Cynthia was born on July 2, 1942, in Beaufort, NC, and dedicated 25 years to working for the State of Georgia. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, siblings, and many others. Contributions may be made in her memory to the American Cancer Association in lieu of flowers.
A Grieving Community
The loss of these three prominent individuals has left a significant impact on their families and the wider community. As loved ones prepare for memorial services, many are reflecting on the legacies, values, and lasting imprints these residents have left on their lives. It is a reminder of the importance of community resilience during trying times, as family members and friends gather to celebrate the lives of those who have passed.
In times of grief, support networks play a crucial role, and the community is standing strong as they honor the memories of Billy Joe Tankersley, Mike Pressley, George H. Whitaker, and Cynthia Lee Marroquin.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Mathews Funeral Home: Mike Pressley
- Rogers-Pickard Funeral Home: George H. Whitaker
- McMullen Funeral Home: Cynthia Marroquin
- Wikipedia: Community Resilience
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Grief
Author: HERE Greenwood
GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
