By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Betty Laseter Schell
Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home
Placeholder Image

Betty Laseter Schell of Covington, passed away February 7, 2011, at the age of 83. Mrs. Schell was born in Social Circle, to the late Joseph and Ruby (Powell) Laseter. She was a member of First Baptist Church, in Covington. Mrs. Schell retired from the City of Covington after 31 years of service, and during that time served as city clerk for 22 years, longer than any other person in the city's history. Her life was her family - especially her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She is loved and will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Mrs. Schell was preceded in death by her husband, Guy P. Schell; sister, Melba Laseter Dooley; and brothers, William Joe Laseter, Julius Laseter, Billy Laseter, George Laseter.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Cindy Schell and Jackie George of Stockbridge; sons and daughters-in-law, Terry and Faye Schell, Richard G. and Julianne Schell, all of Covington; brother, Bobby Laseter of Tennessee; sisters-in-law, Gloria Laseter of Madison, Judy Laseter of Mansfield; grandchildren, Dawn Schell White, Billy Cowan, Misty Schell Hamby, Staci Ann Schell Kenny, Ivey George Davis, Lydia GuyAnne George, Richard Matthew Schell, Kelli Schell Swords, Libby Schell Bratton; 16 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; caregivers, Pansy Williams and Pat Gooden.

Funeral Services for Mrs. Schell will be held Wednesday, February 9, 2011, 2:00 PM, at the Chapel of Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home, 1215 Access Rd., with Pastor Gary Thompson and Judge Samuel D. Ozburn,  officiating, and interment following at Covington City Cemetery, with Pastor Jason Dees presiding at the committal service. The family will receive friends at the funeral home, Tuesday, February 8, from 5-8 PM. Flowers are accepted, or donations may be made to Susan G. Komen For the Cure, 4840 Roswell Rd., Atlanta, GA 30342.

Obituary: Otis Daniel Criswell
Otis Daniel Criswell

Otis Daniel Criswell, age 72, of Covington, Georgia, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born on February 26, 1953, in Athens, Georgia to Melvin Daniel (Coach) Criswell and Veeda Claire Kirkland. 

A proud graduate of Newton County high school, class of 1971. Otis went on to join the army National Guard, serving 6 years. He dedicated 30+ years of his career as a senior Claims representative for George Farm Bureau.

Beyond his professional life, Otis was a passionate University of Georgia football fan. During football season, he could always be found on the deck grilling with family and friends with at least two TVs playing the game. He also loved traveling with his family for martial arts tournaments across the country and cherished time spent relaxing on the beach.

Otis is preceded in death by his parents, Melvin Daniel (Coach) Criswell, Veeda Claire Kirkland and brother, Duane Criswell.

Left to cherish his memory or his children, Jamie (Tony) Pascale Loganville, Georgia, Brian (Carlie) Criswell of Barnesville, Georgia, and Matt Criswell of Covington Georgia; Grandchildren: Kayla and Emma; sister, Donna Criswell Hiett; brother, Dallas (Robin) Criswell; nieces and nephews, Michael, Kimberly, Kevin, Brandon, Preston, and Destiny. 

Otis will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His memory will live on through the many lives he touched. A celebration of Otis ‘s life will be held at Faith Tabernacle Church. 631 Ralph Rd - Conyers, Georgia 30094 on Sunday, April 6, 2025 at 3:00 pm.