Even though she could have been named after the State because she was sweet as a Georgia peach, Mother Georgia Sykes, a native Tallahasseean, was named after her father. She is the eldest of six children born to Brother George Sykes and Mother Henretta Lynn Sykes. Both parents, three siblings, and one sister-in-law, all preceded her in death, Felica Dale, Alfreddie James, and Reverend Henry Gene (Fannie) Sykes.

Georgia was a quiet child growing up and preferred the sanctuary of the inside over rough and tumble play outside. She was quiet but spirited and very adamant about what she did and did not want to do.

Georgia attended and graduated from Lincoln High School. She attended Florida A&M University for two years studying Elementary Education. She later studied Business Management at Tallahassee Community College, maintaining a 4.0 grade point average. Her passions later turned to caring for children. Choosing a career path that followed that passion, she worked at Sunland Hospital for many years. With a desire to care for others, Georgia's work history very much reflected her heart. She has, at various times, worked at Capital Health Plan, Magnolia Pediatrics and the offices of Dr. Brickler, Dr. Britt, and Dr. Laurie. Georgia retired in 2005 from employment but never from service.

Georgia is a former member of Union Branch Missionary Baptist Church. She later joined New Covenant Holy Temple. She has served in a number of capacities, including Sunday School teacher, choir member in all three choirs, chairperson of the Shepherd's Care Ministry and President of the Missionary Board. Georgia's love of God and dedication to serve Him through service to His people has led to her advancement to 'Mother of Zion'. Georgia provided a vehicle for Christian women to share their love of God, witness of His goodness and fellowship among the sisters as founder and director of the Interdenominational Christian Women's Retreat of Tallahassee.

With a deep and abiding love for God, filled with the precious Holy Spirit and inspiring love through commitment and service, Georgia is truly a child of the King. She enjoyed listening to her favorite hymn, Amazing Grace. She always enjoyed traveling, visiting or shopping with friends, and relaxing.

Survivors include her sons: Vincent Gilliam and Cedric Grissom; grandchildren: Darryl Gaines and Kendric Grissom; great-grandchildren: Mason and Ilik Gaines; brothers: Hansel and Anthony (Felita) Sykes; sister-in-law: Margaret Sykes; nieces: Cecilie and Melissa Sykes, Lynn Sykes-Horace, Tonya (Michael) McClure and Kelsey (Milton ) Fletcher Jr.; nephews: Travis (Christy) Sykes, John, Tony, and Michael Sykes; special and close friend: Dr. Geraldine Harris; a host of other relatives and plentyof friends.