Lonnie Clemons,

Jr.

Mr. Lonnie Clemons Jr., a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, and consummate professional, transitioned peacefully from this life on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 9:10 a.m. He was 69 years old.

Lonnie was born on February 9, 1956, in Panama City, Florida, to the late Lonnie Clemons Sr. and Rebecca Clemons. He was raised with a strong foundation of faith, family, and service that would guide him throughout his life.

Lonnie received his formal education in the Spaulding County School System in Griffin, Georgia, graduating from Griffin High School in 1974. His leadership and academic excellence earned him a ROTC Scholarship to Georgia Military College, where he obtained an Associate Degree in Military Science and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army.

Lonnie accepted Christ as his Savior at an early age at Achaia Missionary Baptist Church in Griffin, Georgia. He served faithfully as a Deacon at Shiloh Baptist Church in Milledgeville, Georgia, and later continued his spiritual journey as a dedicated member of Westside Church of Christ in Griffin, Georgia.

On August 8, 1979, Lonnie was united in holy matrimony to Bernice Primas in Milledgeville, Georgia. Their union was richly blessed with two children: Markeeta Nicole Clayton (Malcolm Sr.) and Lonnie Clemons III. Together, they found joy in raising their family and later delight in their six beloved grandchildren: Malcolm Clayton Jr., Amyiah Nicole Clemons, LaNyiah Camille Clemons, Michael Nicholas Clayton, Aubrey Danielle Clemons, and Eden Michelle Clemons. Known to them as "Papa," Lonnie's love, wisdom, and presence shaped lasting memories for generations.

With a heart for service, Lonnie enlisted in the United States Army on February 9, 1978, where he served in the Army Reserve for 12 years. His commitment to duty extended into his professional life with the Georgia Department of Corrections, where he served faithfully for 34 years, retiring as a Senior Training Instructor in 2010. Throughout his career, he was recognized as a mentor, leader, and teacher who modeled professionalism and integrity.

Outside of work, Lonnie lived a life full of laughter, friendship, and service. He enjoyed fishing, DIY home repair projects, playing card games, socializing with friends, and most of all, spending time with his family. He was always the life of every gathering. Bringing joy and laughter to every situation. He was also a proud member of the E and V Social Club, where he formed lifelong bonds of brotherhood and camaraderie.

A Life of Legacy

Lonnie was preceded in death by his parents, Lonnie Clemons Sr. and Rebecca Clemons; his sister, Elizabeth Baker (Judge Baker, brother-in-law) and Larry Ward (brother-in-law);

his brothers, Gilbert Blaine, Clyde Blaine, and Edward Clemons; and his nieces, Veronica Driver and Gail Mingo.

He leaves to celebrate his memory his devoted wife of 49 years, Bernice Clemons; his loving children, Markeeta (Malcolm Sr.) Clayton and Lonnie Clemons III; his treasured grandchildren; Patricia Ward (sister), Timothy (Melissa) Sims (brother), and Jessie Hicks, and his extended family; and countless friends, colleagues, and church members who were touched by his life.

Closing Tribute

Lonnie Clemons Jr. lived his life with dignity, faith, and love. He was a man who gave of himself selflessly—whether as a soldier, instructor, deacon, husband, father, or "Papa." His greatest joy was found in uplifting others, and his legacy as a teacher, mentor, and pillar of strength will forever be remembered.

"Well done, good and faithful servant... enter into the joy of your Lord." – Matthew 25:

Visitation for Mr. Lonnie Clemons, Jr., will be held on Monday,  August 18, 2025, from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM at Burden's Funeral Home.

A Celebration of his life will be held on Tuesday,  August 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM in the Chapel at Burden's Funeral Home. The body will lie in state one hour prior to the service hour. Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery. Pastor Ronald K. Adams is the Eulogist.