VIDALIA, GA — The Vidalia and Tattnall County communities are grieving the heartbreaking loss of Mary Lucille Harbin-Gaffney, 46, who tragically passed away on the morning of November 5, 2025, following a fatal two-vehicle accident at the intersection of Cleon Mosley Road and Highway 280.
According to officials, emergency responders from Tattnall County Fire, Reidsville Fire Department, Roger’s State Prison Fire, Tattnall County EMS, and the Tattnall County Sheriff’s Department were dispatched to the scene around 9:30 a.m. The collision involved a car and a truck, with reports of entrapment. The truck driver was transported to a local hospital for medical attention, while the driver of the car — now identified as Mary Harbin-Gaffney of Vidalia — tragically succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
The Tattnall County Sheriff’s Office and Georgia State Patrol are currently investigating the cause of the crash. The westbound lane of Highway 280 was temporarily closed as authorities worked to clear the scene and gather evidence.
Mary’s passing has left her family, friends, and community heartbroken. Born on July 26, 1979, in DeKalb, Georgia, to Douglas James Harbin Sr. and Mildred Clay Harbin, she was known for her warm heart, joyful spirit, and deep devotion to her loved ones.
Mary found peace and happiness in life’s simplest pleasures — spending time with family, fishing, camping, and taking spontaneous trips to the mountains. She was happiest outdoors, surrounded by laughter and the people she loved most.
She is survived by her loving husband, Major Gaffney, and their children — Maegen Harbin, Major G. Gaffney, Clay Harbin, Isaiah Wright, and Joshua Allen West — as well as her cherished granddaughter, Jessica Harbin. Mary’s kindness, generosity, and radiant smile touched everyone she met, and her loss leaves a void that words cannot fill.
A Memorial Service honoring Mary’s life will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 2 p.m. in the Chapel of Wood Funeral Home. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate the remarkable woman who gave so much of herself to others.
Those wishing to honor Mary’s memory may send flowers or plant a tree through Wood Funeral Home’s floral store in tribute to her beautiful spirit and love for nature.
The family asks for continued prayers as they navigate this unimaginable loss and find strength in the love and support of their community.
🕊️ In loving memory of Mary Lucille Harbin-Gaffney (1979–2025) — a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. May her kindness, laughter, and love live on forever in the hearts of those who knew her.