The Burke County community is mourning the loss of Wanda Williams Saxon, 71, and Linwood Douglas “Douglas” Saxon, 77, who entered into rest together on Thursday, August 21, 2025.
Wanda, born in Waynesboro, GA, was the daughter of the late Lavern Alexander and Rose Vickery Williams. Known for her warm heart and dedication to her community, Wanda faithfully served as a member of First Baptist Church Waynesboro, where she was active in church ministries and cherished her role in serving others. She devoted many years as a secretary at Burke County High School, where she touched the lives of countless students and colleagues through her kindness and commitment.
Douglas, born in Augusta, GA, was the son of the late Linwood Douglas Sr. and Claudia Mae Syms Saxon. A proud U.S. Air Force veteran who served in Vietnam, Douglas demonstrated a lifetime of service—both to his country and his community. After his military service, he worked as a rural mail carrier for the United States Postal Service, tended to his farm, and contributed to the betterment of Burke County by serving on the County Board of Equalization.
Wanda and Douglas shared a deep, abiding love for each other, their family, and their community. As devoted spouses, parents, and grandparents—affectionately known as “Grammy” and “Pa”—their greatest joy was their family. They leave behind a legacy of faith, love, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew them.
In addition to their parents, Douglas was preceded in death by four siblings: Roy Saxon, Marvin Saxon, Jewel Saxon, and Marilyn Whitley.
They are survived by their three beloved children:
- Brian Douglas Saxon (Amber) of Grovetown
- William Jason Saxon (Jenny) of Martinez
- Claudia Kate Cook (Wint) of Thomson
They are also survived by seven cherished grandchildren: Reese, Colton, Jadon, Emmalyn, Sadie, Noah, and Jaxon, who will forever hold dear the love and guidance of their “Grammy” and “Pa.”
Wanda is survived by her siblings:
- Lavern Williams, Jr. (Sandy) of Johnston, SC
- Susan Williams (Mike) of Vidette
- Cyndi Foster (Lewis) of Chester, MD
Douglas is survived by his siblings:
- Tom Saxon (Linda) of Waynesboro
- Virginia Bolton (John) of Sanford, NC
- Audrey Smith of Mt. Pleasant, SC
- Rosemary Patti (Tony) of Marietta
- Carolyn Rhoden of Belvedere, SC
Along with numerous nieces and nephews, they leave behind a wide circle of family and friends who will miss their wisdom, humor, and unwavering love.
Services to Honor Wanda and Douglas
- The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, August 25 at DeLoach-McKerley-Prescott Funeral Home.
- Memorial services will be held at 10:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church Waynesboro, with Dr. G. Al Wright, Jr. officiating.
Those wishing to honor their memory may consider donations to:
- First Baptist Church Waynesboro – Missions Fund
- Vietnam Veterans of America
Arrangements are being handled by DeLoach-McKerley-Prescott Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 220 East 6th Street, Waynesboro, GA 30830 (706-554-3531).
Wanda and Douglas Saxon’s lives were a testament to love, faith, and service. Though their earthly journey has ended, their legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved them most.
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