Mark Vertis Shipes, 59, of Screven, Ga. died Saturday, March 26, 2022.  The Appling County native had lived in Florida most of his life and for the last 10 years, had lived in Screven. He was a Christian and was a retired tree surgeon. He enjoyed some fishing and golf but his favorite pastime was spent with his family, especially his 3 granddaughters.  His wife of 37 years, Alisa Renee Shipes preceded him in death along with his mother, Carolyn R. Howard and a brother-in-law, Cliff Johnson.

Survivors are his two daughters, Brandis Shipes of Screven and Rachel Brown of Jacksonville, Fla.; a son, Mark (Laura) Shipes, II of Jacksonville, Fla.; 3 granddaughters, Catherine, Lydia and Amelia; father, Danny Howard of Jacksonville, Fl.; a sister, Sandy Johnson and a brother, Kevin Brown, both of Jacksonville, Fla.; several nieces and nephews.

Graveside funeral services will be 2 PM Tuesday, March 29, 2022 in Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Appling County with Rev. Gerald Greenlee officiating.

The family will receive friends 30 minutes prior to services at the cemetery.

Rinehart and Sons Funeral Home of Jesup is in charge of arrangements.