August 15, 1947 - June 11, 2025
Mr. Herman Lemons, affectionately known by all as Punkin, was a man of gentle strength, unwavering faith, and a heart rooted in love for both his family and the land. Born to the late Inez Cope and Mamon Monroe, Punkin lived a life marked by humility, hard work, and generosity. He passed away on Wednesday evening, June 11, 2025, at East Georgia Regional Medical Center in Statesboro after an extended illness.
At an early age, he united in holy matrimony with the love of his life, Mrs. Jessie Mae Lemons. Their sacred union endured over 62 beautiful years and stood as a shining example of devotion, patience, and lasting love.
A faithful and committed member of Little Bethel Baptist Church, Punkin served on the Usher Board with dignity and joy until his health no longer allowed. His presence in the church was consistent and comforting, a steady reflection of his quiet yet impactful faith.
Punkin retired from W.M. Sheppard Lumber Company, Inc., where he worked as a skilled bobcat mechanic. But his true passion was found in the open air. He was a man of the land, devoted to his tractors, tools, and especially his gardens. Every year, he planted a large garden not just for himself, but for his entire family to enjoy. His garden was his ministry, an act of love that fed both body and soul.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Inez Cope; stepfather, Warnell Cope; father, Mamon Monroe; and his brother, Jessie Cope, Earl Lemons, Earnestine Lemons, and Herman Monroe.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Jessie Mae Lemons; sons, Frankie Lee (Carita) Lemons and Norman Howard; grandchildren, Jessica Lemons and Tylon Howard; and two beloved great-grandchildren who brought him immense joy.
He also leaves behind his loving sisters, Shirley (Emmitt) Porter and Patricia Taylor; brothers, Homer Lemons, Billy Johnson, and Ronnie Cope; and a host of in-laws whom he loved dearly: brothers-in-law Deacon Hinson (Linda) Howard, Joe Howard, and Johnny (Pinkie) Howard; and sisters-in-law Adella Howard, Delorise (Cameron) Shaw, and Diane (Stanley) Clark.
Punkin's life was a garden sown in love and nurtured with care. The seeds he planted, of kindness, integrity, and family, continue to grow in the lives he touched. His earthly labor is now complete, but his legacy will live on in every blooming flower, every Sunday gathering, every memory shared.
We honor Mr. Herman "Punkin" Lemons not just for the life he lived, but for the love he gave. He was a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, but more than that, he was a man who quietly made the world better for those around him. His memory will forever live in our hearts and in the garden of our souls.
Public viewing for Mr. Lemons will be held on Friday, June 20, 2025, from 2:00 - 6:00 PM at the funeral home.
The family of Mr. Herman "Punkin" Lemons will receive visitors for the family visitation on Friday, June 20, 2025, from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at the funeral home.
Funeral services to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Herman "Punkin" Lemons will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Little Bethel Baptist Church, 327 Railroad St, Brooklet, GA 30415, with Rev. John T. McPhatter, pastor/officiating and Bishop Anthony Chavers, presiding.
Burial will follow at Bulloch Memorial Gardens.
Pallbearers will be family & friends.
Matthew H. Lovett & Son's Funeral Home, LLC is in charge of final arrangements.
Family and friends may sign the online register book, express online condolences, send flowers or other memorial gifts via our website.
