Guyton—Janell Watkins Morris, 70, passed away January 15, 2024, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Savannah.

Janell was born in Chatham County and lived the last 30 years in Effingham County. She earned a bachelor's degree in computer science at The University of Georgia, and spent her career as a programmer. When her children were born she paused her career and devoted her time to raising them. In 2014, she retired from Advanced Business Software in Savannah.

Janell and Gary were married for 45 years. They enjoyed spending time with family and traveling. Janell especially loved spoiling her grandchildren, who called her Mema.

Janell liked to be outdoors, gardening and working with the shrubs, flowers, and plants in her yard, then admiring the results from her chair on the back porch. She was an amazing cook and baker and continuously blessed her family with her many creative dishes. Most of all, Janell loved to read—usually late into the night—and regularly shared recommendations for authors and books she discovered. She was a loving wife and devoted mother. She was a generous, thoughtful, caring person who made those around her feel special.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack Nelson Watkins, Sr. and Blanche Glisson Watkins; and her son, Nathan James Morris.

Survivors include her husband, Gary L. Morris; daughter, Sara Morris; grandchildren, Ethan Evans, Elliot Evans, and Kate Evans; sister, Ellen Glass (Glenn); brothers, Jack Nelson Watkins, Jr. (Carolyn), and Dennis Watkins (Glenda); sister-in-law, Debra Barlow (Travis); brother-in-law, Dennis Morris (Gail); and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, January 18, 2024, followed by funeral services at 5 p.m. in the funeral home chapel, with Reverend Ryan Ralston, of Savannah Holy Church of God, officiating.

Graveside services will be 11 a.m. Friday, January 19, 2024, at Hillcrest Abbey West.

In lieu of flowers remembrance may be made to the Savannah Holy Church of God, 707 Little Neck Road, Savannah, GA, 31419.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel, 2460 Hwy. 21 South, Rincon, GA 31326. (912) 754-6421.  www.stricklandandsonsfuneralhome.com