Mrs. Sara Jean Verner Novack, age 90, of Toccoa passed away Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at Stephens County Hospital.

Born May 24, 1936 in Toccoa, she was the daughter of the late Adolphus Conrad and Susie Jane Adams Verner.

Jean was a beloved member of her family whose wit, warmth and unforgettable personality brought joy to all who knew her. Though she did not have children of her own, she was deeply loved by her nephews, nieces and cousins who cherished her as a treasured aunt, cousin, confidante and friend. She had a special way of making people laugh, often with a quick remark, a clever observation, or her wonderfully witty sense of humor. She was truly one of a kind, and her family will forever remember the laughter and happiness she brought into their lives. Jean was the last surviving member of her generation in the Verner family, making her passing the close of a very special chapter in their family story. She carried with her a lifetime of memories, traditions, stories and connections that will continue to live on through those who loved her.

Jean graduated from Stephens County High School and lived in Toccoa most of her life. She was a long-time, active member of Hill Street Baptist Church, where she always went on home visits, handled administrative duties for the food pantry, and served on the hospitality committee. She deeply loved her church family that was such a large part of her life. In her earlier years, she handled accounting duties for Toccoa Manufacturing, A & A Manufacturing in Franklin Springs, and Elberton Manufacturing. Jean loved gardening, having quite the green thumb with her thriving plants and gorgeous blooms. She also cherished time spent with her family, whether it was for a birthday, holiday or other special event, going to the Georgia Bulldog games, or just hanging out together.

Family members include her nephew, Greg Holbrook (Missy), of Carnesville; great-nephews, David Holbrook (Feather), Mark Holbrook (Tiffany), Josh Blakely (Alita) and Matt Blakely; great-great niece, Amelia Holbrook; great-great-nephews, Parker Holbrook, Lucas Holbrook and Nick Blakely; and numerous cousins.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John E. Novack and her sister, Martha Jane Verner Holbrook.

Memorial services will be held four o’clock Monday, October 12, 2026 at Hill Street Baptist Church with the Rev. Paul Garrison officiating.

Inurnment at Stephens Memorial Gardens will be at a later date.

Flowers are optional. Memorial donations may be made to the Hill Street Baptist Church Food Ministry, 151 S. Hill Street, Toccoa, GA 30577.

Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers and sign the online guestbook at www.whitlockmortuary.net

Whitlock Mortuary, Funerals and Cremations is honored to be serving the family of Mrs. Sara Jean Verner Novack.