Funeral services for Earnest R. Loyd, 82, of Donalsonville, Ga., were held Tuesday, Jan. 18, at the Chapel of Evans-Skipper Funeral Home with the Revs. Leroy Starling and James Scarborough officiating.

Burial followed at Turnage Cemetery in Donalsonville with Carl Holloway, Johnny McPaul, Tommy Rogers, Chris Oaks, Chad Oaks and Earnie Loyd acting as pallbearers.

Mr. Loyd was born in Headland, Ala., on Aug. 17, 1928. He died Jan. 16, 2011, at his home. He lived most of his life in Florida and worked in paper mills. The Lord saved him when he was 30 years old and he and his wife began to pioneer churches and build churches. He was an electrician by trade, but most of all a preacher for the Lord.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earnest and Cosetta Grant Loyd; and a son, Greg R. Loyd.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Geneva Hersey Loyd; three children; Ronnie E. Loyd and his wife, Ruby, of Bainbridge; Rebecca Oaks and her husband, Bobby, of Lakeland, Fla.; and Cynthia L. Hall and her husband, Jackie, of Monticello, Miss.; nine grandchildren and many other relatives.

Evans-Skipper Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.