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Tony Ray Avery, 64, of Jakin, Ga., passed away Monday, March 8, 2021.

The graveside funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 12, 2021 at Harvey Family Cemetery with Rev. Nate Lehman and Rev. Kirk Loyless officiating. Due to the ongoing concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, those attending are asked to maintain the recommended safe social distancing of six feet and/or wear protective masks in accordance with the State of Georgia guidelines.

Online visitors may sign the guest register at www.iveyfuneral.com. Memorial donations may be made to: Friendship United Methodist Church Missions, PO Box 305, Donalsonville, Ga. 39845 or Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 200 Vesey Street, 28^th Floor, New York, N.Y. 10281.

Tony Ray Avery was born May 9, 1956 in Blakely, Ga., the son of George and Berdell Day Avery. He was a graduate of Early County High School. Tony was a builder, and later in sales, with Trinity Metal Buildings and a member of Friendship United Methodist Church.

Growing up, Tony did nothing but build. He learned to work hard at an early age and spent his life doing just that. He was arrogant but loved babies, probably because they could sense his soft side. Tony enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing pool, dogs, and fast cars. He lived life to the fullest making sure every moment counted.

Survivors include his wife of 30 years, Sarah H. Avery; his children, George Quitman Avery of Valdosta, and Tracey Avery and Toni Rae Avery of Alabama; his three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Tony was preceded in death by his siblings, Ronnie Avery and Michelle Avery Moore.