Georgia Ann Sauls

Georgia Ann “PeeWee” (Smirnes) Sauls, 83, of Harrisburg, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Herrin Hospital, surrounded by her loved ones.

She was born on July 14, 1942, in Detroit, Michigan to the late Henry and Gertrude Gaynell (Stringer) Smirnes.

Georgia devoted much of her life to caring for others. As a foster mother, she opened her home and heart to forty-nine children and eventually adopted the boy who needed her most, James David Stroup. Her compassion, strength, and unwavering love left a lasting impact on the many lives she touched.

She retired from J-Ron, Inc. a plastic fabrication company in Henderson, Kentucky. In her free time, Georgia enjoyed fishing and playing Bingo. Known for her determination and spirited personality, she especially loved proving that a 4’11” woman could do just about anything a man could do.

Georgia is survived by her son, James “David” Stroup of Harrisburg; nieces Teresa Brown of Herrin, Illinois and Lisa (Ryan) McGill of Independence, Missouri; foster son Glen Hayes and his children; as well as many great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, and great-great-nephews. She also leaves behind countless others who lovingly knew her as “Mom” and “Granny.”

She was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather, Iber Irvin; brothers, Nicholas, and Henry Smirnes; sister, Rose Stocker; niece, Deanna Tucker; and nephew, Steven Anthony Smirnes.

In honoring Georgia’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded, and no services will be held.

Ministry of Comfort was lovingly entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.