Obituary for Raymond Widener

MR. RAYMOND WESLEY WIDENER, SR., age 80, of Eastman, GA, died on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Fairview Park Hospital.

 A celebration of life service will be held at 2:00PM Sunday, March 8, at Southerland Funeral Chapel, with Rev Ricky Anderson officiating.

 Raymond was born in Eastman, GA, on January 27, 1946, to the late Louella Allen Widener and George Washington “G.W.” Widener. He was of the Christian Faith, attended Dodge County High School, served in the Army Reserves for four years, and worked as a truck driver for over 30 years. He was leased to DD&J Trucking in Rhine for several years. He enjoyed fishing, cooking, and spending time with his canine companion “Queen”. He also enjoyed classic vehicles and was affectionately called “Papa Raymond” by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Raymond was preceded in death by his Wife, Patsy Drexler Widener, Grandson, Patrick Mallard, and Sisters, Linda Smith, Kathleen Harrell, Dolly Jones, Mae Melton, and Peggy Burke.

 He is survived by his Daughters – Arhonda Mallard (Greg) of Sylvania and Lyndsey Johnson of Dublin; Son – Raymond “Ray” Widener, Jr. of Macon; Grandchildren – Brandon McDonald (Lauren), Cody Widener, Taylor Widener, Shelby Widener, Buzzy Mallard, and Dustin Dole; Several Great-Grandchildren; Brothers – Ray Widener (Dorothy) of Arkansas, Bennett Widener, Larry Widener (Brenda), Jerry Widener (Florence), Gary Widener (Jane), and Allan Widener (Burdette), all of Eastman; Friend – Amy Jones of Dublin; Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

 The family will receive friends in Southerland Funeral Chapel from 1:00PM-2:00PM Sunday, March 8. In addition to flowers, the family requests contributions to the American Cancer Society, www.donate.cancer.org/.