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Shirley Crawford Buchanan
Shirley Crawford Buchanan,58, died June 29, 2009, at her residence in Columbus. Services are incomplete and planned at a later date. Memorial Funeral Home of Columbus is in charge of the arrangements. Mrs. Buchanan was born on August 3, 1950, in Columbus to the late Armon Dawes Crawford and Ruby Lucille Wilson Crawford. She was a truck driver in the construction business. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Marsha Dequin. She is survived by her daughter, Carrie Yoakum, of Columbus; sons, Ronnie, Keith and Kris Yoakum, all of Columbus; sisters, Lois Savage, Shelia Nolan, Martha and Charlotte Loper, Theresa Pittman; brother, Ronald Dawes Crawford; and 10s grandchildren.
Josie W. Brown Cunningham
Josie W. Brown Cunningham, 76, died July 1, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Sunday at 3 p.m. at Southside MB Church in Columbus with the Rev. Rayfield Evans officiating.Burial will follow at St. Paul Cemetery. Visitation is today from 1-8 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus; family will greet visitors from 5-7 p.m. Mrs. Cunningham was born Oct. 9, 1932, in Lowndes County to the late Joseph Brown Sr. and Earline Fisher. She was a cook for 40 years at the Holiday Inn. She was a member of Southside MB Church and served as the youth choir director, a member of the adult choir, Mother's board, Missionary Board and New Member's Ministry. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brothers, Willie and Joseph Brown Jr.; and sisters, Rosie and Louise Brown. She is survived by her husband, Johnnie W. Cunningham Sr., of Columbus; daughters, Brenda Washington, Carolyn Henderson, Janice Ryland, and Valerie Chandler, all of Columbus; sons, James Cunningham, of Columbus, Johnny Cunningham, of Montgomery, Ala., Curtis Cunningham, of Frisco, Texas, Steve Cunningham, of Ridgeland, and Vertis Cunningham, of Frederick, Md., sister, Bobbie Hill, of Columbus; brothers, Jessie, Jerry, and James Brown, all of Columbus; 22 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Tavoris, Hophnie, Richard Cunningham, Shauncey Henderson and Terry and Rashad Hill.
Delia Mae Pumphrey McDonald
Okolona - Delia Mae Pumphrey McDonald, 83, died July 2, 2009, at the Shearer-Richardson Nursing Center in Okolona. Services are at Saturday at 10 a.m. in the Okolona Chapel of Holland-Harris Funeral Directors with Bro. Jimmy Bryan officiating. A private burial will follow in East Chickasaw Memorial Gardens.Visitation will be today from 5-7 p.m. at the Okolona Chapel. Mrs. McDonald was born on Dec. 5, 1925, near Houston to the late Eddie Lee Pumphrey and Cornelia Carter Pumphrey. She lived most of her adult life in Okolona working in area garment factories. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Okolona. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William Edward McDonald; sisters, Ruth Hamby, Annie Laura Weed, Florence Houser and Lounez Harden; and brothers, Eddie Lee Jr., George Marion and an infant brother. Survivors include her son, David McDonald; brother, Rufus Pumphrey, of Steens; sister, Betty Maud Scott, of Sparta; three grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Pallbearers will be Andrew McDonald, John Pumphrey, Gerald, Keith, and Frankie Houser and Joshua and Sonny Scott.
Tolver Townsend
HOUSTON - Tolver Townsend, 90, died June 28, 2009, at the North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo. Services were Thursday at St. Matthew Baptist Church with Pastor Levon Kinard officiating. Burial followed in Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Buena Vista. Westbrooks Funeral Home of Aberdeen was in charge of the arrangements. She was born Nov. 24, 1918. She was a member of St. Matthew Baptist Church of Houston. She graduated from Rust College and taught school for 40 years in the Chickasaw Public School System. She is survived by her husband, Booker T. Townsend; sons, Johnnie Graham, of Tupelo and Humphrey Graham, of Houston; daughters, Mardell Cooper, of Tupelo and Glenda Williams, of Houston; stepson, Jimmy Townsend; sisters, Ira McFarland and Vera May, both of Houston; and 10 grandchildren and three stepchildren.
William Joseph "Joe" Bowen
Vernon, AL - William Joseph "Joe" Bowen, 89, died June 30, 2009, at Northwest Medical Center in Winfield, Ala. Services are Friday at 11 a.m. at Chandler Funeral Home in Vernon. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. Jesse Phillips officiating. Burial will follow at Furnace Hill Cemetery in Vernon. Mr. Bowen was born in Lamar County and was a truck driver and a veteran of the Navy. He is survived by sons, Glenn Bowen, of Crestview, Fla. and Titus Bowen, of Steens, and Larry Bowen, of Northport, Ala.; brothers, M.F. Duke, of Vernon and J.T. Duke, of Hamilton, Ala.; and sister, Pearlie Mangrum, of Aberdeen; and eight grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
L.A. Hill
Crawford - L.A. Hill, 53, died June 26, 2009, at his residence. Services are Friday at 2 p.m. at Oakland MB Church with the Rev. Sammie White officiating. Visitation is today from 1-7 p.m. at Lee Sykes Funeral Home Chapel; the family will greet visitors from 6-7 p.m. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery. Mr. Hill was born Nov. 30, 1955, to Cora Tharps Hill and the late Walter Hill Sr. He graduated from Motley High School in 1975 and attended Mississippi State University for three years majoring in poultry science. He worked at Bryan Foods for 22 years. In addition to his father, he is preceded in death by his sister, Berna Dean Hill; and grandfather, Tommie Lee Tharps. He is survived by his mother; wife, Virginia Cotton Hill; sister, Emma Lee Harris, of Crawford; brothers, Rickie and David Hill, both of Columbus, Gary Hill, of Arlington, Texas, and Walter Hill Jr., of Crawford; children, Venita Hill, Linda Harris and Louis Hill; and one grandchild.
Anthony Lavette Willis
Anthony Lavette Willis, 44, died June 25, 2009, at NMMC-Tupelo. Services are Friday at 1 p.m. at Sanders Chapel CME Church in Columbus. Visitation is today from noon-6 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Service of Columbus with the Rev. J.W. Honeysucker officiating. Burial will follow at Galilee Cemetery in Hodge, La. He was born July 3, 1964, to J.W. Willis and Pearlie Saulsberry Willis. He was formerly with Columbus Municipal School District and Johnston Tombigbee Furniture Manufacturing Co. He was a 1982 graduate of Jonesboro-Hodge High School and attended Alcorn State University. He was a member of Galilee MB Church and served on the Male Usher Board. He is survived by his wife, Valorie Willis; children, Jamalle, Jaszmine and Jameale Willis, all of Columbus; sisters, Boyce Willis, Beartice Cooper, Betty Sue Johnson, all of Hodge, La., and Carolyn Willis, of Grapevine, Texas; and brother, Willard Willis, of Hodge, La. Pallbearers are family and friends.
Virginia Sudduth Mims
Virginia Sudduth Mims, 89, died June 30 at NMMC-Tupelo. Services will be July 3, 2pm at Memorial Funeral Home, Rev. Jearl Hunley & Rev. Ron McDougald officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service at the funeral home. Mrs. Mims was born Nov. 17, 1919 in Carroll Co. to the late Joe Meek & Bessie Ray Sudduth, and was a member of First Cumberland Presbyterian Church. She retired as an Inventory Control Technician from United Technologies after 28 years, and was preceded in death by her daughter, Zerelda Thompson. She is survived by her husband, Robert L. Mims of Columbus; daughters, Pam Gammill (Robert) of Pontotoc & Dianne Foffke (Mark) of Virginia Beach, VA; sons, Joe Mims (Martha Sue) & Paul Mims (Sandra) of Columbus; a sister, Sue Pool of Tuscaloosa, AL; son-in-law, Bobby Thompson of Columbus; step-sister, Margaret Hughes (Jimmy) of Greenwood; step-brother, John Morgan Word of Mobile, AL; 11 grandchildren; and 13 great grandchildren. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers.
Margaret Ellender D'Haillecourt
Amory - Margaret Ellender D'Haillecourt, 87, died June 30, 2009 at her home. Services will be Friday at 11 a.m. at the E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory, with the Rev. Sammy McMillen, the Rev. Shane Crawford, and the Rev. Jim Manley officiating. Visitation is Thursday from 5-8 p.m. and will continue until service time Friday at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Haughton Memorial Park. Mrs. D'Haillecourt was born December 1, 1921, in Sesser, Ill. She lived in Memphis and in the Amory area for the past 20 years. She was a homemaker and a member of the Cason Baptist Church where she was an active member of the Cason Baptist Golden Believers. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bryan and Mattie McBride Eubanks; brothers, Leslie, Cecil and Howard Eubanks; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Survivors include her husband, the Rev. Arthur D'Haillecourt of Amory; sons, Henry D'Haillecourt, of Paducah, Ky., and Barry D'Haillecourt, of Amory; daughters, Judith D'Haillecourt, Joan Hood, and Amy Hester, all of Amory; brothers, Bill Eubanks, of Kankakee, Ill. and Harry Eubanks, of Watson, Ill.; sisters, Edith Guthrie of Pinckneyville, Ill., Dorothy Pitchford, of Mt. Vernon, Ill., and Mildred Tate, of Dix, Ill.; 14 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Mike Hood, Bryan Hester, Shane Hood, Sam Cooper, Eddie Hester and Brent Brown.
Elsie Mae Pickle Lewis
Amory- Elsie Mae Pickle Lewis, 75, died June 29, 2009, at the Gilmore Memorial Regional Medical Center in Amory. Services will be Thursday at 4 p.m. at the E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory, with the sRev. Bob Wilburn and Bro. Tommy Whaley officiating. Visitation is today from 5- 8 p.m. and will continue until service time on Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will follow in the Pickle Cemetery. Mrs. Lewis was born June 4, 1934, in Monroe County to the late Elgie and Ruby Camp Pickle. She lived in Columbus and in the Amory area for the past 14 years. She worked in the garment industry and retired as a state school employee. She was a member of the First Assembly of God in Amory. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Loys Denver Lewis and a twin brother, Elton Ray Pickle. Survivors include son, Billy Eugene White, of Columbus; daughters, Dorothy White Prestridge, of Amory, and Marie Goble, of Memphis, Tenn.; sisters, Mavis McCrary and Mable Chambers, both of Hatley; six grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Richard Chambers, Jake Madison, Michael Prestridge, Herbert Tedford, Robert Mallard, Allen Kuntz sand Shawn Gore.
Anna Ruth Mason
Eupora - Anna Ruth Mason, 58, died June 29, 2009, at Montfort Jones Memorial Hospital in Kosciusko. Services are Thursday at 11 a.m. at Wise Funeral Home in Eupora, with the Rev. Carpenter officiating. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Sapa Cemetery. She was born Feb. 16, 1951. She was a retired truant officer of Webster County and a Baptist. Mrs. Mason was a Vietnam Air Force veteran and a lifelong member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Ladies Auxillary and Daughters of American Veterans. She was also a member of Eupora Order of the Eastern Star Chapter 261. She is survived by her husband, Butch Mason, of Eupora; daughter, Kelly Novak, of Forest City, Ark.; son, Bill Mason, of Eupora; and four grandchildren.
John T. Ragland, Jr.
Memphis, Tenn. - John T. Ragland, Jr., 65, died June 29, 2009, at his home in Smithville. Services will be Thursday 1 p.m. at Memphis Funeral Home Poplar Chapel. Visitation is Wednesday from 5-8 p.m. and Thursday noon-1 at Memphis Funeral Home Poplar Chapel. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Lee Memorial Funeral Home of Verona is in charge of the arrangements. He was born on January 22, 1944, to the late John Sr. and Mary Ragland. He was a lifelong resident of Memphis. He was employed by The Commercial Appeal for nearly 50 years. Survivors include his wife, Pamela Ragland, of Memphis; children, Sherry Ragland Flippo, of Brewer, John T. Ragland III, of West Memphis, Ark., Peggy Ragland -Waddell, and Daniel Ragland, of Southaven; 20 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Tim Phillips, Hubert Waddell, Tommy Flippo, Lamar Ward, Justin Segerson and John T. Ragland IV.
Franklin D.R. Tipler, Sr.
Starkville - Franklin D.R. Tipler, Sr., 41, died June 25, 2009, at his home. Services are Thursday at 1 p.m. at Truevine MB Church in Artesia, with the Rev. Gregory Mostella officiating. Visitation is today from noon-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Mr. Tipler was born Feb. 20, 1968, in Ashland. He was a construction worker. He was a Baptist. He is preceded in death by his father, Lonnie Cole. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ella Cromwell Tipler, of Starkville; son, Franklin Tipler Jr., of Starkvlle; mother, Fannie Tipler, of Ashland; brother, Oscar Tipler, of Memphis, and Horace Ray and John Tipler, Jr., both of Ashland; sister, Doris Kay Hester, Stella Butler and Elma Avers, all of Memphis, Tenn., and Betty Miller, Marilyn Cole, and Roberta Williams, all of Ashland. Pallbearers are Charles Ferguson, Tony Hinton, Rick Armstead, Willie Owens, Caesar Jackson Jr.and Jimmy Hudson.
Shirley Crawford Buchanan
Shirley Crawford Buchanan, 58, died Monday, June 29, 2009 at her residence in Columbus. Shirley was born on August 3, 1050 in Columbus to the late Armon Dawes Crawford and Ruby Lucille Wilson Crawford. She was a truck driver in the construction business. A memorial service is planned at a later date. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her sister Marsha Dequin. She is survived by her daughter, Carrie Yoakum of Columbus; sons, Ronnie Yoakum, Keith Yoakum & Kris Yoakum of Columbus; sisters, Lois Savage, Shelia Nolan, Martha Loper, Charlotte Loper & Theresa Pittman; a brother, Ronald Dawes Crawford; and 10 grandchildren.
Cornelius Billups
STARKVILLE - Cornelius Billups, 86, died June 27, 2009, at Oktibbeha County Hospital. Services are Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Mt. Pelier MB Church in Mayhew. Visitation is today from 4-6 p.m. at Carter Funeral Home in West Point. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. He is survived by his wife, Lillie Bell Billups, of West Point; daughters, Minnie Walker, of Columbus, Brenda Hosey, Doris Robinson, and Kay Billups, all of West Point; sons, Cornelious Billups Jr. and Michael Billups, all of West Point; brothers, Jim Billups, of Flint, Mich., and Pearly Billups, of West Point; sisters, Helen Billups, of West Point, and Earline Gillespie, of Artesia; 13 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
Annie Belle Black
SULLIGENT, Ala. - Annie Belle Black, 79, died June 27, 2009, at Northwest Medical Center in Winfield. Services are today at 11 a.m. at Piney Grove Freewill Baptist Church, where the body will be from 10-11 a.m., with the Bro. Randy Wright officiating. Burial will follow in Seven Oaks Cemetery. Otts Funeral Home of Sulligent is in charge of the arrangements. Mrs. Black was born Jan. 5, 1930, in Lamar County, Ala. to the late John Riley and Mary Alice Pate Williams. She was a member of the Piney Grove Freewill Baptist Church. Mrs. Black was a 1950 graduate of Marion County High School. She had previously worked at McCoy Manufacturing and Reltoc. She is preceded in death by her parents, John Riley and Mary Alice Pate Williams; daughter, Joan Markham; brothers, Clinton and Amous Williams; sisters, Marie Etheridge and Ular Williams. She is survived by her husband, James Thomas Black, of Beaverton, Ala.; sons, Gene Black, of Guin, Ala., and Lee Markham, of Beaverton, Ala.; brothers, Felix Williams, of Dayton, Ohio, and Clifton Williams, of Moline, Ill.; sister, Clemmie Black, of East Moline, Ill.; two grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren.
Frances Norene Bruff
Frances Norene Bruff, 71 of Steens, MS, passed away Sunday, June 28, 2009 at her residence. Visitation for Mrs. Bruff was Monday, June 29, 2009 from 3:30 - 4:30 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Graveside service were Monday, June 29, 2009 at 5:30 PM at Walnut Grove Cemetery, Vernon, AL with Bro. Armon McDill officiating, Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing. Mrs. Bruff was born April 8, 1938 in Fernbank, AL to the late Alvin and Bertha Beard Sims. She was a member of the Church of God of Vernon, Vernon, AL. She retired in 1978 from Coy Manufacturing as a seamstress. She loved quilting, fishing, reading, canning and making banana pudding. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Bruff is preceded in death by her 2 husbands Robert Baldwin and Joe Bruff. Mrs. Bruff is survived by her daughters - Frances Ruby (Fred) Williams, Millport, AL,and Joyce Faye (Pete) Richards Clark, West Point, MS; son - Roy Monroe (Wanda) Baldwin, Caledonia, MS; sister - Lorene Hayes, Steens, MS; brother - Willard Sims, Chandler, OK; ten grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Rocky Allen, William Hall, Jr., Shawn Terrell, Jeff Putnam, Jessie Brooks and Michael Hayes.
June Speed Burks
June Speed Burks, age 85, of Columbus, MS, died Sunday, June 28, 2009, at Aurora Australis Lodge in Columbus, MS. Graveside Services will be held Tuesday, June 30, 2009 at Friendship Cemetery with Dr. Shawn Parker officiating. Gunter and Peel Funeral Home will be in charge of arrangements. She was born in Munford, AL to the late Roy Jefferson and Alva Mae Justice Speed. She was a member of the First Baptist Church and had been a resident of Aurora for the last 9 years, where she celebrated her 85th birthday Saturday. She was preceded in death by her husband, Homer C. Burks; brothers, Thomas Eugene Speed and Jimmy Lee Speed; sisters, Nell Virginia Smith and Shirley Faye Bedwell. Mrs. Burks is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Buddy and Christy Burks of Columbus, MS; two daughters Beverly Burks of Asheville, NC and Joyce Dest (Paul) Westland, MI; one sister, Fannie Ruth Duffield of Mobile, AL; and three brothers, Robert David Speed, William Joseph Speed and Jerry Dale Speed all of Mobile, AL.
Horace Webster Burns
Horace Webster Burns, 82 passed away Friday, June 26, 2009 at Baptist Memorial Hospital - Golden Triangle, Columbus, MS. Visitation was held Sunday, June 28, 2009 at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral services were held Monday, June 29, 2009, 11:00 A.M. at Fairview Baptist Church, Columbus, MS with Bro. Mickey Dalrymple officiating and Bro. Sammy Crawford and Bro. Tommy Gillon assisting. Interment will be in Mt. Zion Cemetery, Columbus, MS with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing. Mr. Burns was born October 14, 1926 in Lowndes County, MS to the late Fines "Bob" Elmer and Rona Catherine Hannah Burns. He lived in Columbus his entire life. He loved to garden, was a clock maker, a carpenter and enjoyed building furniture and swings. He was a member of Fairview Baptist Church and the 55+ of Fairview Baptist Church. Mr. Burns was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Army. He retired from Cole Refrigeration after 49 years of service in 2001. Mr. Burns is survived by his wife - Mary P. Burns, Columbus, MS; son - Robert Harvey Burns, Fulton, MS; daughters - Denise Marie Burns, Columbus, MS, and Janette Dale (Jim) Howard, Biloxi, MS and brother - Almous Gene Burns, Columbus, MS; seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Pallbearers will be Wesley Barnett, Adam Barnett, Josh Barnett, Dillon Hawkins, Richard Burns and Jeffery Bullock.
Thomas Allen Camp
Amory - Thomas Allen Camp, 70, died June 28, 2009, in Aberdeen. Services will be Wednesday at 11 a.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Bro. Tommy Whaley officiating. Visitation will be today 5-8 p.m. and will continue until service time on Wednesday. Burial will be in the Greenbrier Cemetery. Mr. Camp was born October 5, 1938, in Monroe County to the late Dock and Dessie Pickle Camp. He worked as a machinist at Walker Mfg., Holley Performance, and as a security officer for Securitas at Holley Performance. He was a member of the East Amory Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Minnie Mae Adams, Lonie Bell Howard, Ila Puckett, and Opal Camp; and brothers, Roy Lee, James, Trannie, Dannie and Hobert Camp. He is survived by his wife, Sally Thompson Camp, of Amory; son, Timmy Allen Camp, of Shannon; sisters, Earline Summers, of Mo., Ruth Camp and Ludeen Gray, both of Becker, and Ruby Gray, of Amory; and four grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Tracy Callick, Keith Roberson, Jimmy Gray, Ricky Camp, Dennis Thompson and Ellis Mitchell.
Johnnie Hartley
ABERDEEN - Johnnie Hartley, 93, died June 27, 2009, at her daughter's residence. Services are Wednesday at 10 a.m. Tisdale-Lann Memorial Chapel in Aberdeen with Elder Herman Clark officiating. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home in Aberdeen. Burial will follow in Bogan Cemetery. Mrs. Hartley was born March 25, 1916, in Lamar County, Ala.o the late John Cleveland Coleman and Rama Britt Coleman. She was a lifelong resident of Aberdeen. She retired from Burris Chair Factory. She was a member of Sulphur Springs Primative Baptist Church. In addition to her parents,she is preceded in death by her first husband, Jimmy A. Carter; her second husband, Holly Moy; her third husband, Jim Hartley; and a number of brothers and sisters. She is survived by her daughters, Marilyn Gilreath, of Aberdeen and Linda J. Carter, of Columbus; sons, James E. Carter, of Greenville, S.C., and George C. Carter, of Sulligent, Ala.; sisters, Blanche Smith, of Columbus, Ohio, and Bobbie Malone, of Jackson, Tenn.; 10 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and 11 great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers are Jeremy Marshall, Stanley, Keith, and Mike Carter, Barry Whitaker, James Waddle and Donald Dahlem.
Elizabeth Watkins Beall King
Elizabeth Watkins Beall King, 88, died June 27, 2009 at Homeplace of Columbus. Visitation will be today at Southern Funeral Home in Lexington from 4 pm until 6 pm. Funeral services will be on Tuesday at the First United Methodist Church in Lexington at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Odd Fellows Cemetery. Mrs. King was born to Tallulah (Lipscomb) and Benjamin Stigler Beall, Jr. of Holmes County. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Lexington. She is survived by daughters, Betty Forbes of Wilmette, IL; Sarah Kerr of Flagler Beach, Fl; and Tallulah Bryant of Columbus, MS; and brother, Benjamin Stigler Beall, III of Easton, MD; seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Mrs. King was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Colonel Isaac Read King, Jr.
Annie Lois Gore
Annie Lois Gore, 90 of Columbus, MS passed away Saturday, June 27, 2009 at Trinity Healthcare, Columbus, MS.
Visitation was held Sunday, June 28, 2009 from 6 to 8 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral Services were held Monday, June 29, 2009 at 2 PM in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Tommy Gillon officiating and Bro. Ron McDougald and Bro. Steve Lammons assisting. Interment will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, Ethelsville, AL with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing.
Mrs. Gore was born July 24, 1918 in Reform, AL to the late James R. and Mary Frances Ashcraft Guin and was a resident of Columbus, MS her whole life. She loved gardening, especially flowers, was a member of the Nancy Vaughn Sunday School Class and a charter member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, and Topagers of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Columbus, MS. Mrs. Gore was one of two surviving members of the 2nd graduating class of New Hope High School, Columbus, MS. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Gore is preceded in death by her husband, John Albert Gore and daughter, Rosamond Gore.Mrs. Gore is survived by her sons – James W. “Buddy” (Janice) Gore, Geneva, FL; John M. (Debbie) Gore, Columbus, MS; Edward Eugene (Gail) Gore, Columbus, MS; William A. Gore, Columbus, MS; daughters – Barbara G. Linde, Lakeview, AR; Betsy G. Roberson, Auburn, WA; Gwen G. Parham, Nesbit, MS; Kaye G. (Gerry) Burnett, Columbus, MS; 18 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren; and special friends – Mrs. Virginia Davis, Columbus, MS; and Mrs. Dot Lockhart, Steens, MS. Pallbearers will be Donnie Brown, David Dortch, Jim Gore, Buddy Guin, Hardy Hester, Mark Oswalt and Robert McKay.
Annie Bell Black
BEAVERTON, Ala. - Annie Bell Black, 79, died June 27, 2009, at the Northwest Medical Center in Winfield, Ala. Services will be Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the Piney Grove Freewill Baptist Church where the body will be from 10-11 a.m. Visitation is today from 6-9 p.m. at the Piney Grove Freewill Baptist Church. Burial will follow at the Seven Oaks Cemetery. Otts Funeral Home in Sulligent, Ala. is in charge of the arrangements.
June Speed Burks
June Speed Burks, 85, died June 28, 2009, at Aurora Australis in Columbus. Graveside services are Tuesday at 2 p.m. at Friendship Cemetery, with Dr. Shawn Parker officiating. Gunter and Peel Funeral Home of Columbus is in charge of the arrangements. Mrs. Burks was born June 27, 1924, in Munford, Ala. She was a member of the First Baptist Church and had been a resident at Aurora for the last nine years, where she celebrated her 85th birthday Saturday. She is preceded in death by her parents, Roy Jefferson and Alva Mae Justice Speed; her husband, Homer C. Burks; brothers, Thomas Eugene Speed and Jimmy Lee Speed; and sisters, Nell Virginia Smith and Shirley Faye Bedwell. She is survived by her son, Homer C. Burks Jr., of Columbus; brothers; Robert David, William Joseph, and Jerry Dale Speed, of Mobile, Ala.; and sister, Fannie Ruth Duffield, of Mobile, Ala.
Faye Elizabeth Crimm Ferguson
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - Faye Elizabeth Crimm Ferguson, 87, died June 27, 2009, at the Druid City Hospital Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa, Ala. Services are today at 3 p.m. at Skelton Funeral Home Chapel, with the Rev. Eugene Junkin officiating. Visitation is one hour prior to service at Skelton Funeral Home of Reform. Burial will follow at the Backbone Cemetery in Elrod. Mrs. Ferguson was born Sept. 16, 1921, in Fernbank, Ala. to the late Zackariah Joshua Crimm and Hattie Lee Crimm. She was a member of the Presbyterian faith and a homemaker. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Charles Bernard Ferguson; daughter, Mary Alice Ferguson, three sisters, and two brothers. She is survived by her sister, Betty Doris Sims, of Gordo, Ala.; and her brother, Glenn Crimm, of Tuscaloosa, Ala.
Ruby Ratliff Gamblin
Ruby Ratliff Gamblin, 101, died June 26, 2009, at Trinity Healthcare in Columbus. Services are Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the Gunter and Peel Funeral Home Chapel with the Revs. David Strain and Ron McDougald officiating. Visitation is 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Starkville. Mrs. Gamblin was born Nov. 3, 1907, in Spring Dale, near Kosciusko, to Edmund Ratliff and Zenobia Crosby Ratliff. She graduated from Mississippi Southern University in 1930 and taught in New Hope for at least one school year. She lived in Oxford, then moved to Starkville and resided there until the 1940s when she moved to Tallahassee, Fla. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church and she helped to establish Trinity Presbyterian Church in Tallahassee, donating the altar furniture in memory of her son Frank. She was a member of Main Street Presbyterian Church, Starkville Presbyterian for 10 years, then Tallahassee for 22 years, and Macon for 22 years. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Frank W. Gamblin; sons, Frank W. Gamblin Jr. and Don R. Gamblin. Pallbearers are Gray Flora, Bill Bell, Rick, Frank , and Steve Adams, Walter Riddel, Richard Schimel, and David Dunbar.
Leroy Ingle
GUIN, Ala. - Leroy Ingle, 72, died June 27, 2009, at his residence. Services are Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the Guin First Baptist Church, with Bro. Scott Stokes and Bro. John Hambright officiating. Burial will follow in the Guin City Cemetery. Norwood Funeral Home, Inc. of Guin, Ala. is in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Ingle was born in Guin, Ala. to the late Hal Clark and Leona Martin Ingle. He had lived in Guin all of his life and was a member of the Guin First Baptist Church. He retired from 3M after 43 years. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Kaye Gann Ingle; and a brother, Ralph Anderson Ingle. He is survived by his daughters, Sonia Ratliff, of Harvest, Ala. and Toni Cullum, of Scituate, Mass., sisters; Louise Conlee and Jean Murphy, both of Guin, Ala.; brother, Alfred Ingle, of Guin, Ala.; and five grandchildren.
Hattie L. Williams
CHICAGO - Hattie L. Williams, 94, died June 20, 2009, at her residence. Services are Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Rock Hill United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Bernard Crump officiating. Burial will follow at Rock Hill Cemetery. West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville is in charge of the arrangements. She was born in Chickesaw, Okla. She was a Methodist.
Beatrice Davis Southern
West Point, Mississippi - Beatrice Davis Southern, 94, passed away, Saturday, June 27, 2009 at her sister's home, in West Point. Graveside services will be Monday, June 29, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. with the Reverend David Schultz officiating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery West Point. Visitation will be Sunday, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Calvert Funeral Home of West Point, which is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Southern was born January 5, 1915 in Tuscalooosa, Alabama to the late Nan Fancher Davis and Fred Davis and was former owner Compton Grocery on Murff Row: later she and her husband established Kwik Shop Food Store. She was a member of Siloam United Methodist Church. Beatrice married James Henry Southern on March 7, 1936, in West Point, he predeceased her on June 27, 1988; three sisters and a brother also predeceased her. Survivors include, one sister, Mary Lou Walker of West Point; brother and sister in law, W. V. & Mary Helen Southern of West Point; sister in law: Frances Cordray of Columbus, GA, and a number of nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Mac Steadman, Joey Michel, Jimmy Pee, Sonny Duke, David Duncan, Brad Gable, Jimmy Stevenson, and Gene Baldwin.
Lula Davidson Miller
West Point, Mississippi - Lula Davidson Miller, 95, passed away, Friday, June 26, 2009 West Point Community Living Center in West Point. Services will be Sunday, June 28, 2009 at 10:00 a. m. from Calvert Funeral Home Chapel with the Brother Zane Parker and assisted by Brother Stephen Ford officiating. Burial will follow in Howell Cemetery in Monroe County Mississippi. Visitation will be Saturday, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Calvert Funeral Home of West Point, which is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Miller was born February 5, 1914 in Monroe County, Mississippi to the late Larisie Ophelia Tubb and Benjamin Absolon Davidson and was a homemaker; married to the late Ira Laten Miller. Daughter, Mattie Laverne Jones, also predeceased her. Survivors include one daughter, Elizabeth Ann Bramlett (Stanley) of West Point; one son, Jimmy LeDrew Miller (Robbie) of Aberdeen; ten grandchildren; eleven great grandchildren, and five great-great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Roger Brand, Steven Brand, Dale Brand, Cary Wilson, Doyle Edward Brooks, Jr., and Lonnie Bramlett.
Rickey Lee "Polio" Cotton
BROOKSVILLE - Rickey Lee "Polio" Cotton, 53, died June 18 at St. Dominic-Jackson Memorial Hospital. Services are Saturday at 1 p.m. at Second Baptist MB Church, with the Rev. Terry L. Franklin officiating. Visitation is today from 1-7 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Chapel in Macon and family will greet visitors from 6-7. Burial will follow in the Brooksville Cemetery. Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Macon is in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Cotton was born July 27, 1955, to Lue Ella Ellis Cotton and Charles Roby Sr. He was a construction worker. He was a member of Second Baptist Church in Brooksville and a graduate of Noxubee County High School. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, Reginald Levon Cotton; and sister, Hazel Roby. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Ann Brewer Cotton; his adoptive mother, Rhoda Mae Ellis Bush; sisters, Josephine Humphrey, Shirley Bush, Cathy Bush, of Detroit, Virginia Dooley, of Brooksville, Mary Wilson, of West Point, Janice Rose, of Tuscaloosa, Ala., Betty Evins, of St. Louis, Lucy Mae Roy, Bobbie Jean Roby, Martha Ann Roby, Lora Ann Cunningham, all of Macon, Christine Danch, s of Rock Port, Ill.; brothers, John Cotton, Curtis Bush, Emarshall Bush, all of Brooksville, and Dennis Cotton, of North Carolina. Pallbearers are Eric Dooley, Willie Skinner, Kevin Bibbs, Derek Dooley, Theodys Brewer, Javar Dooley, Thomas Williams, and Willie T. Davis.
Harold "Booker T." Gibbs
ARTESIA - Harold "Booker T." Gibbs, 62, died June 21 at BMH-GT. Services are Saturday at 3 p.m. at Beulah Grove Baptist Church of Artesia, with the Rev. Samuel Wilson officiating. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. in the Lee-Sykes Funeral HomeChapel of Columbus. Burial will follow at the Beulah Grove Cemetery. He was born Jan. 20, 1947, to the late Sam and Lillian Gibbs Sr. He is a member of the New Hope MB Church. He worked at Columbus Marble Works. He is survived by his sister, Barbara Gibbs, of Artesia; brothers, Sam Gibbs Jr. and Willie Gibbs of Cincinnati, Ohio. Pallbearers are Willie McGee, Ezell Johnson, David Chandler, Dexter Bush, and T.J. Lucious.
Charles Edward Greer
Charles Edward Greer, 61, died June 19 at the University Hospital in Jackson. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Mt. Olive MB Baptist Church in Millport, Ala., with the Rev. Benny W. Henry officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olive Cemetery. Dowdle Funeral Home in Millport is in charge of the arrangements. He was born June 26, 1947, in North Carolina to the late Mary Elizabeth Carter and Benjamin F. Greer. He was a member of Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church. He organized the Sibyl Greer Scholarship Fund. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Sybil Marie Johnson Greer; a stepson, Daryl L. Lawson, and two siblings. He is survived by his sister, Sally Headen; and brother, Benjamin F. Greer, both of Greensboro, N. C.
Roscoe Barclay Hedrick
Roscoe Barclay Hedrick, 77, of Marietta died Wednesday, June 24. Services will be held 1 PM Saturday, graveside at Anutt Cemetery in Salem, Mo. with the Rev. Doug Walters officiating. Family will receive friends from 10 am till 11 am at Dent County Memorial Chapel in Salem, MO. Born and raised on Diamond Dale Polled Hereford Farm in Salem, MO. Mr. Hedrick became Ranch Manger at the Famed Circle M Ranch in Senatobia, MS. He was at the Halter of Month 1959 National Reserve Champion Polled Hereford Bull & Female. From there he managed the world's largest Polled Hereford Farm, Silver Springs Farms in Damascus, MD. He started Yikes Farm in Columbus, MS with his family. Then he traveled extensively in live stock marketing as a ring man at cattle sales throughout the United States. He was member of the American Polled Hereford Assoc., Served on the MS. Board for Polled Hereford. Since 1995, he was the equipment manr for White Hawk Inc. in Marietta. He loved his grandchildren and NASCAR. Suvivores include his three sons - Gary R. Hedrick of Marietta, Jack D. Hedrick of Columbus, MS, and Curtis F. Hedrick of Olivet, MI; daughter - Marcia M. Kendrick of Houston, TX; brother - Bill Hedrick of Kearney, MO; sister -Helen Nutter of Howell, MI; brother- in -law - Jack Fitch of Longwood, FL; eight grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.
Charles Sikes Howard
Charles Sikes Howard, 64, passed away Thursday, June 25 at Community Hospice, Verona, MS. Visitation will be held Saturday, June 27 from 8:30 AM to 10 AM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, June 27 at 10 AM in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. James Kelly Unger officiating. Interment will be in Memorial Gardens, Columbus, MS with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing. Mr. Howard was born November 18, 1944 in Cheyenne, Wyoming to the late Harry and Maurice Howard and was a resident of Columbus, MS for the past thirty nine years having moved from West Point, MS. He was a retired truck driver with Ruan having sixteen years of service. He served in the Mississippi National Guard, loved driving his 18-wheeler, bass fishing and traveling as a member of a bass club. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Morris Skidmore Howard. Mr. Howard is survived by his wife, Charlotte Ann Cutts Howard, Columbus, MS; nephews, Marcus Howard and Cameron Howard, both of Cookville, TN. Pallbearers will be Doug Ray, Tommy Belton, Greg King, Michael Ming, Dennis Ming and Ronnie Atkins.
Willie Dale Poss
WOODHINE, Ga.- Willie Dale Poss, 53, died June 10 at the VA Hospital in Gainesville, Fla. Services will be Sunday 3 p.m. at the E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory, with Bro. James Rutledge officiating. Visitation is 2 p.m. until service time on Sunday at the funeral home. He was born June 17, 1955, in Amory to the late John C. and Mary E. Adams Thompson Poss. He lived in the Nettleton/Amory areas and lived in Georgia for the past eight years. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army stationed in Germany. He attended Nettleton Schools and was self-employed in construction. He attended Cason Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include one stepdaughter, Sissy Poss, of Tupelo; brother, Jimmy Thompson of Aberdeen; and sisters, Dorothy Harlow, of Nettleton, Nellie Vernon, of Amory, Alice Perry, of Wax Haw, N. C. and twin Brenda G. Floyd, of Savannah, Tenn.
Frances Irine Ray
BUHL, Ala. - Frances Irine Ray, 80, died June 24 at Druid City Hospital Health Services. Graveside services are today at 4 p.m. at Sardis Cemetery in Greene County, with the Rev. Carl Sudduth officiating. Visitation is today at 2-3 p.m. at Dogwood Chapel. Burial will follow at Sardis Cemetery in Greene County. Skelton Funeral Home of Reform is in charge of the arrangements. Mrs. Ray was born in Louisville to the late James Wiley King and Ava Mae Miles King. She was a homemaker and a member of West Greene Baptist Church. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, James Wesley Ray, four sisters and eight brothers. She is survived by her son, Randy Ray, of Elrod, Ala., sister, Mary Ann Jones; brothers, Belvin, Melvin, and Jimmy Lee King; three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Willie C. "Buddy" Rice, Sr.
MUSKEGON, Mich. - Willie C. "Buddy" Rice, Sr., 69, died June 20 at Hackley Hospital in Muskegon, Mich. Services are Sunday at 1:30 p.m. at Oakland MB Church in Crawford, with the Rev. Kenny Bridges officiating. Visitation is Saturday from 12-5 p.m. at Lee Sykes Funeral Home of Macon. He was born June 3, 1940, in Starkville to the late Willie B. Rice and Betty Margary Rice. He is retired from C.W.C. Textron of Muskegon, Mich. He is survived by his wife, Elnora B. Rice; sons, Wayne Rice, of Macon, Willie C. Rice Willie O. Matthews, both of Muskegon, Mich., Edward D. Briggs, of Mayerville, Raphael Rice, of Atlanta, Ga., Michael Rice, of Brooksville; daughters, Glennie Miller, of Brooksville, Faye Smith, of Laurel, Darlene Robinson, of Crawford, Tameka Briggs, Zady Wright, Sharrona Williams, and Betty Briggs, all of Muskegon, Mich., Debbie Jones, of Columbus, Faye Holden, of Atlanta; brothers, Joseph Rice and J. D. Clyde Rice, of Muskegon, Mich., Earnest Lee Rice, of Chicago, Otis Chandler, of Crawford; sisters, Bertha R. Bussey, of New York and Normal Jean Wilson, of Crawford; and 30 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Willie Lou Staples
Willie Lou Staples, 60, died June 23, at her residence in Columbus. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Mt. Olive MB Church. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. in the Lee-Sykes Chapel in Columbus, with the Rev. Joseph Stallings officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olive Cemetery. Lee Sykes Funeral Home of Columbus is in charge of the arrangements. She was born Oct. 10, 1948. She was a member of Mt. Olive MB Church. Mrs. Staples is preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Willie Allen Thomas She is survived by Rosie Marie Staples, of Vera Beach, Fla., Patricia Riley, of Baton Rouge, La., Gayle Thomas, Tessie Poindexter, Jake Staples, Dorine, Lavonne, Eric, and Kimberly Thomas, all of Columbus; sister, Magnolia Young; 22 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Patsy Elizabeth Wharton
KENNEDY, Ala. - Patsy Elizabeth Wharton, 60, died June 25 at Druid City Hospital. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church, with the Rev. Mike Trull and the Rev. Tom Harris officiating. Visitation is today from 7-9 p.m. at the Skelton Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service at Calvary Baptist Church. Burial will follow at the Andrews Chapel Cemetery. Mrs. Wharton was born on Aug. 24, 1948, to the late Clannie and Bertie Brand Jennings. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Reform, Ala. Mrs. Wharton worked for Columbus Urology as an insurance clerk. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by a brother, Bo Jennings, and a sister, Jean Dorroh. She is survived by her husband, Henry Wharton, of Kennedy, Ala.; daughters, Jennifer W. Shackelford, of Huntsville, Ala.; son, Jason Wharton, of Moundville; brothers, Travis Jennings, of West Point, Wayne Jennings, of Ohio and Ralph Jennings, of North Carolina; and one grandchild.
Sallie Mae Wright
STARKVILLE - Sallie Mae Wright, 84, died June 21 at Starkville Manor Nursing Home. Services are Saturday, at 11 a.m. at Second Baptist Church, in Starkville, with the Rev. Joe Shumaker officiating. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville. Burial will follow at Odd Fellow Cemetery. Mrs. Wright was born in Oktibbeha County and was a Baptist. She was a seamstress. She is survived by her son, James Earl Wright, of Cerritos, Calif.; sisters, Hazel Coats, Betty West, Ann Walker, all of Starkville; brother, Charles M. Sudduth, of Inglewood, Calif.; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Wilbur Harvey Yates
Wilbur Harvey Yates, 86 of Columbus, MS passed away Tuesday, June 23 at Home Place Assisted Living, Columbus, MS. Graveside services will be held Friday, June 26 at 4PM in Piney Grove Cemetery, Steens, MS with military honors. Bro. Bryant Benton will be officiating and Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing. Mr. Yates was born June 7, 1923 in Bogaloosa, LA to the late Fannie Torrence and John Meredith Yates and was a resident of Columbus, MS for the past fifty-five years having moved from Union, MS. He retired from Bosch/ United Technology as an automotive tool and die maker. Mr. Yates was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Steens, MS. In addition to his parents, Mr. Yates is preceded in death by his son, James Wilbur Yates. Mr. Yates is survived by his wife of sixtysix years, Lela Beatrice James Yates, Columbus, MS; one daughter, Barbara L. Littell, Bradenton, FL; one brother, Walter R. Yates, Columbus, MS; three grandchildren, Brad Yates, Greg Hughes, Sean Hughes and five great grandchildren, Kristen Stammer, Paul Stammer, Gillian Hughes, Ian Taylor and Jordan Hughes. Pallbearers will be James Bradley "Brad" Yates, Gregory R. Hughes, II, Kevin Sean Hughes, Tommy Van Yates, Larry Williams and Charles Veazey.
Gladys Waide
Gladys Marie Whitmire Waide, 79, died June 23 after a long illness. Services were June 25 at Siloam Baptist Church, and burial followed in Palo Alto Cemetery. Robinson Funeral Home of West Point handled the arrangements. Mrs. Waide was born April 14, 1920 to the late Seldon & Molly Whitmire of Choctaw Co., and was preceded in death by her husband, James Danield Waide, Jr. She is survived by her children, Jim Waide of Tupelo, David Waide & Charles Waide of West Point & Sarah Parks of Houston, MO; sister, Dorothy Wray of West Point; brother, Donald Whitmire of Louisville; grandchildren, Sara Waide of Phoenix, AR, Whit Waide & Jonathan Waide of West Point, Lea Waide of Tupelo, Natalie Parks of Houston, MO, Linda Bess Waide of Atlanta & Laurin Boeving of Louisville, KY; 2 great grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews. Pallbearers were Pete Dexter, John Elliott, Ray Millard, Bubba Todd, Allen Wray, John Webber, Robbie Robinson & Johnny Wray.
James E. Harris
James E. “Big Time Billy” Harris, 72, died June 22 at Starkville Manor Nursing Home. Services will be June 27, 2pm at West Lowndes High School, Rev. Lee Petty officiating. Visitation will be June 26, 1-3pm at West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville, and 4-7pm at Carters Funeral Services in Columbus. Burial will be in Wicks Cemetery. West Memorial Funeral Home of Starkville is handling the arrangements.
Jeffrey Howard Landon
Jeffrey Howard "Jeff" Landon, 56, died June 22 at BMH-GT. Services will be June 25, 7pm at First Baptist Church, Dr. Shawn Parker officiating. Visitation will be Thursday, 6pm until service time at the church. A graveside service will take place at 10am June 27 at Silver Creek Cemetery in Youngstown, OH. Mr. Landon was born March 10, 1953 in Amherst, OH to the late Howard Landon & Audrey Williams Landon. He graduated from The Ohio University in Athens with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and from the University of Dayton with an MBA. In addition to his father he was preceded in death by his sister, Kimberley and brother, Greg. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis Gillenwater Landon of Columbus; daughter, Jennifer Landon Augsburger (Sam) of Lafayette, IN ; sons, Scott Landon, of Columbus, John Landon, of Indianapolis, IN; mother, Audrey Williams Landon of Amherst, OH; in-laws, Jack & Shirley Gillenwater of Springfield, OH brother and sisters-in-law, Stephen & Tina Creamer Gillenwater & Doug Gillenwater of Jamestown, OH and Tim & Terri Elmer of TX; nieces & nephews, Jay & Stephanie Fitchpatrick of Leesburg, OH, Matt & Kristen Tamplin of Jamestown, OH, Nikki Clark of OH, Kelly & Jake Coleman of HI, Amanda Tamplin of TX, Brandon Elmer, Brian & Jamie Lunt, Bryson & Ashley Green &Dustin Elmer of Utah, Mie Lunt of NV, and Aaron & Christy Porter & William Elmerof TX; great nieces & nephews, Ethan Clark & Makenna Clark of Jamestown, OH, Austin & Kennedy Lunt of NV & Madison Fitchpatrick of Leesburg, OH; and uncles, Jack (Luann) Williams, Marlin Williams, Larry Williams, Kelly (Donna) Williams, Tom (Pat) Williams, Jim (Carroll) & Frank Williams.
Theo H. Coleman
MILLPORT, AL - Theo H. Coleman, 87, died June 22 at Druid City Hospital-Tuscaloosa, AL. Graveside services are Thursday, 10 a.m. at the Millport City Cemetery. Dowdle Funeral Home in Millport, AL is handling the arrangements. Mr. Coleman was born Oct. 25, 1921to the late Elbert W. & Blanche Coleman, and was a veteran of WWII. He attended Auburn University and Ohio State University and lived in Michigan after graduating, and was a teacher in the animal science department at MSU. He was a member of the Millport Church of Christ; and is survived by his wife, Maxine Ashcraft Coleman of Tuscaloosa.
Henry C. Lane
STARKVILLE - Henry C. Lane, 53, died June 18 at his residence. Services are Thursday, 11 a.m. at Chapel Hill Missionary Baptist Church, Rev. Earl Willis officiating. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville. Burial will follow in Chapel Hill Cemetery. Mr. Lane was born in Clay Co., and was a laborer and a Baptist.
Doshie Parrish
Doshie Parrish, 87, died June 20 at her residence. Services were today at Norwood Chapel Funeral Home in Fayette, AL, Rev. Patsy Tant officiating. Burial followed in Fayette Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Norwood Chapel of Fayette handled the arrangements. Mrs. Parrish was born Feb. 2, 1922 in Fayette, AL to the late Rev. John Pinkerton & Mattie Montgomery Pinkerton, and had been a resident of Columbus for the past 22 years. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Paul Parrish; daughter, Paulette Parrish Sanders; brothers, Ed & Bill Pinkerton; and sisters, Mabel Pinkerton Parrish & Randy Pinkerton.
Julia Mae Taylor
Julia Mae Taylor, 63, died June 14 at her residence. Services are Thursday, noon at Faith Harvest MB Church in Steens, Pastor Hugh Dent officiating. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home Chapel in Columbus. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Mrs. Taylor was born Apr. 6, 1946 to the late William Henry & Juliett Taylor, and was retired from the Chicago Police Dept. She joined St. John MB Church in Columbus at an early age, and was also a member of New Greater Faith Church, Original Wings of Faith and Faith Harvest Church, where she joined the Mother Board and Missionary. She is preceded in death by her sister, Essie Baldwin; and brother, George Lee Taylor. She is survived by her son, Ronald; sisters, Anne Ruth McKnight of Milwaukee, Ethel Stewart of Anaheim, CA, and Glinda Samuel, Mary McGee & Barbara Williams of Columbus; brothers, Mack Taylor of Greenville, Oscar Lee Taylor of St. Louis, and Willie James Taylor, Eli Taylor, Jimmy Will Taylor and & Gene Taylor of Columbus, and Joe Taylor; and 2 grandchildren.
Frances Wise Lamon
West Point, Mississippi - Frances Wise Lamon, age 85, passed away Tuesday, June 23, 2009, at North MS Medical Center, West Point. Funeral services will be Thursday, June 25, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Don Bishop officiating. The body will lie at the church from 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery, West Point, MS. Visitation will be Wednesday 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Calvert Funeral Home of West Point, which is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Lamon was born November 15, 1923 in Clay County, Mississippi to the late Josephine Killian Wise and Guy M. Wise and was a homemaker, she married Rufe Merwin Lamon, Sr. on August 3, 1947, in West Point; he predeceased her on May 15, 1997. Four sisters and three brothers also predeceased her. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, and a lifetime member of the West Point Garden Club; served on the board of the N. M.R.M.H.C., and was active in many community projects over the years. Frances loved her family, her friends, and her church. Survivors include one daughter, Susan Lamon, of Dallas, Texas; one son, Rufe M. Lamon, Jr. (Melinda), of Tupelo; one granddaughter, Madeline Lamon; one sister, Lila Ware, of Houston, Texas; 15 nieces and nephews; many beloved friends and caregivers. Pallbearers will be Bob Wyman, Bob Marshall, Jim Chandler, Sonny Jameson, Phil McClellan, Randy Jones, Chuck Cliett and Jeffrey Cantrell.
Ouida Lavender Shelnutt
Ouida Lavender Shelnutt, age 92, of Columbus, MS died June 22, 2009 at Aurora Australis Lodge. Funeral services will be Wednesday, June 24, 2009 at 10:00 AM at Gunter & Peel Chapel with Rev. Melvin Mordecai and Rev. Tim Johnson officiating. The interment will follow at Asbury Cemetery near Vernon, AL.
Mrs. Shelnutt was born September 12, 1916 in Birmingham, AL to the late John L. and Leila Jane Hollingsworth Lavender. She was retired from the post office and also worked as a waitress, and at the Garment Plant. Mrs. Shelnutt was preceded in death by her husband, F. W. Shelnutt, son, Clarence "Sonny" Shelnutt, and sister, Lillian Westfall.
Survivors include her daughters, Wilma Chain (Bill) of Fallbrook, CA and Vickie Peeks, sister, Margaret Woods of Birmingham, AL, 10 grandchildren and a number of great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be family and friends.
Fred Douglas Holliman
WEST POINT - Fred Douglas Holliman, 80, died June 14, 2009, at Baylor Regional Medical Center in Grapevine, Texas. Services are today at 11 a.m. at Mt. Herman Baptist Church in West Point, with the Rev. Timothy Brinkley officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Garden Cemetery. Carter Funeral Home Chapel in West Point is in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Holliman was born Aug. 3, 1928, in Neshoba County to the late Estella and Keither Holliman. He served as an educator for 28 years. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a son, Rashal Holliman. He is survived by his wife, Alvernia Perry Holliman; daughter, Avis Williams; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Pallbearers are deacons of Mt. Herman Baptist Church and friends.
Harold Edwin Randall
BALDWYN - Harold Edwin Randall, 49, died June 19, 2009, at his home. Services will be 2 p.m. today at the E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Dr. Lloyd Sweatt officiating. Visitation is today at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Haughton Memorial Park. He was born December 8, 1959, in Hot Springs, Ark., to Anita Louise Coutlee Rosado and the late Harold Eugene Randall. He lived in Amory, Becker and in Baldwyn for 16 years. He was a Baptist. He worked as a licensed automotive technician for Tupelo Auto Sales. He was a licensed Mercedes technician and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He was preceded in death by his father; and by grandparents, Vera Coutlee and Lawrence Coutlee. He is survived by his mother, Anita L. Rosado, of Amory; son, Austin Lee Randal, of Richmond Hill; daughter, Lindsey Marie Randall, of Richmond Hill, Ga; sisters, Cynthia Diane Kelly, of Covington, La., and Peggy Suzanne Pitre, of Amory. Pallbearers will be Keith Knowles, Roger Kelly, Nathan Kelly, John Frabbiele, Michael Thorne, and John Pitre, IV.
Percy Brooks, Sr.
MACON-Percy Brooks, Sr., 97, died June 14, 2009, at Noxubee General Hospital in Macon. Services are Friday from 11 a.m. at the Tabernacle MB Church in Macon. Visitation is today from noon-3 p.m. at Lee Sykes Funeral Home Chapel, of Macon. The wake will be today from 5-7 p.m. at Sylvan Ridge MB Church in Macon with the Rev. Ron Wilson officiating; family time is from 4-5 p.m. Burial will follow at Sylvan Ridge/Tabernacle Cemetery of Macon. Mr. Brooks was born Oct. 15, 1911, in Macon, to the late Mr. Walter Walker and Lillian Brooks. His parents were deceased at an early age, so he was raised by his grandparents, Wil and Amanda Brooks. He is retired from the brick plant. He served in the following capacities: Sunday school teacher, a superintendent of Sunday school, president of the Baptist Training Union, church clerk, secretary of the First James Creek State convention, trustee of M and I College and First James Creek Association, president of the THM & S (Toliver Chapel, Hope Well, Mount Mariah and Sylvan Ridge) Protem and other civic capacities. In 1945, he was ordained a deacon of Sylvan Ridge MB Church. He was named the 2004 Greatest Dad by The Colom Foundation, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and Cumulus Broadcasting. He is survived by his wife, Callie Harlan Brooks, of Macon; sister, Danella Cooper, of Chicago; sons, Hayden Williams, of Gulfport, Harlan Brooks, of St. Louis, Howard German, of Tuscaloosa, Ala., Percy Brooks Jr., of Jackson, Wil Brooks, of North Carolina, George Brooks, of Jackson and Bernard Brooks, of Macon; daughters, Drew Meeks, of St. Louis, Lillian Townsend, of Columbus, and Hazel Brooks, of Macon; 27 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, and 35 great-great-grandchildren.
Vernetta V. Jones
WEST POINT - Vernetta V. Jones, 58, died June 17, 2009, at Nolan Hospital-Tuscaloosa, Ala. Services are Tuesday at 11 a.m. at St. Paul United Methodist Church in West Point with the Rev. Calvin Chandler officiating. Burial will follow at West Point Memorial Gardens. Visitation is Monday from 3-6 p.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services. She is preceded in death by her parents, Vernon S. Valentine Sr., and Charlotte Rush Valentine. She is survived by her husband, Patrick H. Jones, of West Point; son, Micheal Ford, of Newton; brothers, Eddie Valentine, Tommie Valentine and Vernon S. Valentine Jr., all of Pheba.
E. C. Reeves
E. C. Reeves, age 81 of Columbus, MS passed away Friday, June 19, 2009 at Home Place Assisted Living, Columbus, MS. Visitation will be held Monday, June 22, 2009 from 12 to 1 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral Services will be held Monday, June 22, 2009 at 1PM in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel, with Bro. Sammy Crawford officiating and Bro. Tommy Gillon assisting. Interment will be in Friendship Cemetery, Columbus, MS with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing. Mr. Reeves was born July 16, 1927 in Monroe County, MS to the late Amanda Coleman and Emmett Reeves. He was a resident of Columbus, MS for the past sixty-one years having moved from Hamilton, MS. Mr. Reeves was a retired postal clerk with 32 years of service. He was a veteran of the U.S. 20th Air Force, a 32nd degree Mason, a Shriner and member of the Fairview Baptist Church, Columbus, MS. In addition to his parents, Mr. Reeves is preceded in death by his wife, Bess Reeves; sisters, Virginia Grant and Marie Smith and brother, L.D. Reeves. Mr. Reeves is survived by his sons, Emmett Harold Reeves, Houston, Tx; Larry Reeves, Baton Rouge, LA; daughter, Lynn Reeves, Birmingham, AL; step-daughter, Joyce Freeman, Sacramento, CA; step-sons, Mike Manning and Bobby Manning both of Columbus, MS; fourteen grandchildren and a host of great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Tommy Southerland, Steve Chism, Craig Barfield, Winfred Sanderson, Archie Moore, Bobby Ward, Jimmy Elkins and Grady Partain.
Addie Kershenstine Alexis
EUPORA - Addie Kershenstine Alexis, 70, died April 20, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Services are Saturday at 10:30 a.m. at St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Eupora. Wise Funeral Home of Eupora is in charge of the arrangements. Mrs. Alexis was born Oct. 28, 1939, in New Orleans. She was the office manager for Kershenstine Beef Jerky in Eupora. She was a member of St. John Neumann Caholic Church. She is survived by her husband, Albert Alexis, of Eupora; daughter, Leigh Bishop, of Houston, Texas.; son, Lance Alexis, of Sylva, N.C.; sister, Romayne Jenks, of Texas; brothers, Tim Kershenstine, of Tex. and Jerl Kershenstine, of La.; and five grandchildren.
Marjorie Elaine Johnston Brewer
STARKVILLE - Marjorie Elaine Johnston Brewer, 51, died June 8, 2009, in Columbus. Memorial services are Saturday at 1 p.m. at West Memorial Chapel, 103 Jefferson St., Starkville. West Memorial Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. She is survived by her parents, Arlene and Harold Johnston, of Vancouver; husband, Kenneth Brewer, of Columbus; brother, Terry Johnston, of Vancouver; daughters, Robin Pippins, of Columbus, Jessica Johnston, Airelle Johnston and Kiara Anna Brewer, of Vancouver, Canada; and four grandchildren.
John Elbert Brooks
WEST POINT - John Elbert Brooks, 59, died June 15, 2009, at his home. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Strong Hill Missionary Baptist Church in West Point, with the Rev. Israel lee officiating. Visitation is today from 3-6 p.m. at the Carter's Mortuary Services. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Mr. Brooks is preceded in death by his father, Willie Earl Brooks; and brothers, Willie Frank , Roosevelt and Charlie Brooks. He is survived by his wife, Sarah Brooks, of West Point; mother, Rosie Brooks, of West Point; daughter, Christy Brooks, of Columbus; step-daughters, Iris Robertson, of West Point; and Jennifer Cox, of Columbus;step-sons, Charlie and Kenneth Davidson, both of Racine, Wis.; sisters, Mary B. White, of West Point; and Rosie Hines , of Southfield, Mich.; brothers, Curtis Brooks, of West Point, Jessie Brooks, of Cleveland, David Brooks, of Richwood, Texas; and 14 grandchildren.
Mildred Lesley Brown
Amory- Mildred Lesley Brown, 62, died June 17, 2009 at the NMMC-Amory after an extended illness. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at the E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with the Revs. Tommy Whaley and Shane Crawford officiating. Visitation is 5-8 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home and will continue until service time on Saturday. Burial will follow at the Haughton Memorial Park. She was born April 5, 1947, in Itawamba County to the late Bartow and Eunice Howell Lesley. She worked in the garment industry and for Stanley Doors. She was a member of the Cason Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Greg Knight; and brother, James Lesley. Survivors include her husband, Jessie W. Brown of Amory; stepsons, Mitch Brown, of Brewer, Mark and Matt Brown, both of Smithville; brothers, Charles Lesley, of Red Bay, Carl Lesley, of Amory, and William Carroll Lesley, of Mooreville; sister, Wanda Taylor, of Amory; and many step grandchildren.
Estella Harrington
STARKVILLE - Estella Harrington, 84, died June 12, 2009, at the Oktibbeha County Hospital. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Christian Faith Missionary Baptist Church. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home, 103 Jefferson Street, Starkville, with the Rev. Frederick Orr officiating.. Burial will follow at Bell Chapel Cemetery. Mrs. Harrington was born Mar. 1, 1925, in Louisville to the late Luella Jefferson and Matt Wesley. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by a son, Billy Harrington; sister, Ada Lee Colbin; step-sisters, Mattie Will Jefferson and Annie Bell Young; brother, Robert Henry Wesley; step-brother, Ezelle Jefferson. She is survived by step-daughters, Condry Gandy, Mildrea White, and Brenda Evans; step-son, Jones White; sisters, Lula Mae Gay and Mary L. Yeates; step-brothers, Joe Jr. and R. D. Jefferson.
Helen Ruth Harris
STARKVILLE - Helen Ruth Harris, 79, died June 13, 2009, at her residence. Services are today at 11 a.m. at Second Baptist Church, with the Rev. Lee Brand Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Gardens of Columbus. West Memorial Funeral Home, of Starkville, is in charge of the arrangements. Mrs. Harris was born in Pickens county, Ala. and was a homemaker. She was a Baptist. She is survived by her children; Billy D. Harris, of Uniondale, N.Y.; Margaret R. Harris-Guyette, of Starkville; Douglas F. Harris, of St. Croix, Virgin Islands; Crispin E. Harris, of Marietta, Ga. ; and Paul D. Harris, of Baldwin Harbon, N.Y.; brother: Dudley Harris, Jr,. of Sandusky, Ohio; sister, Dudlesa S. Thomas-Harris, of Antioch, Calif. and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Jessie D. Randle
WEST POINT - Jessie D. Randle, 93, died June 12, 2009, at his residence. Services are today at 11 a. m. Fountainhead Missionary Baptist Church in West Point. Carter's Mortuary Service sof West Point. is in charge of the arrangements.Burial will follow in the church cemetery , with the Rev. Gene King officiating. He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Charlotte Woodfox Randle; sons, Ervin Gardner and Bobby Randle; daughter, Essie Bell Randle; brothers, Roosevelt and George Randle; sisters, Sarah Bradberry, Annie Pearl Ewings, Minnie Tallie, Corene Garth and Mary Lou Walker. He is survived by his children, Daniel Randle, of West Point, Charles Randle, of Kosciusko, Frank Randle, of West Point, Sarah Bishop, of Starkville, John Randle, of West Point, William Gardner, of West Point, Faye Randle, of West Point, Jessie Gardner, of West Point, Edward Saul, of Chicago, Mary Johnson, of West Point, Perry Gardner, of Flint, Mich., Henry Randle, Josie McFan, Minnie Randle, Hattie Randle, Jessie Randle, all of St. Louis; brothers, Willie B. Randle, of Ellisville, Frank Randle, of Indianapolis; sister, Mary Francis Hogan, of West Point; fifty-six grandchildren, one hundred and one great-grandchildren, sixty-nine great-great-grandchildren, and two great-great-great-grandchildren.
Lt. Col. Ret. James Harvey "Jim" Alexander
Lt. Col. Ret. James Harvey "Jim" Alexander, age 88, of Columbus died June 16, 2009 at his residence. Funeral services will be Saturday, June 20, 2009 at 12:00 PM at Annunciation Catholic Church with Father Robert Dore officiating and Gunter & Peel Funeral Home directing. The interment will immediately follow at Friendship Cemetery with full military honors. Visitation will also be Saturday, June 20, 2009 from 11:00 AM until service time at Annunciation Catholic Church.
Lt. Col. Alexander was born March 29, 1921 in Benld, IL to the late James and Mary Bianco Alexander. As a member of "America's Greatest Generation", he enlisted in the U. S. Army Air Corps pilot program in February 1942, and joined class 43-A, the first to mobilize for WWII. Completing flight training with enough flight hours to be rated a B-17 First Pilot, he was one of the original pilots to form the 533rd Bomb Squadron of the 381st Bomb Group. In May 1943, the squadron was assigned to the European Theatre with the 8th Air Force and flew from Ridgewell Station, England. He completed 25 combat missions and was 1 of only 3 First Pilots to return home on time. Later in the war, he flew transport aircraft throughout the Pacific Theatre. As the war ended, he flew occupation troops into many Asian cities including Tokyo, Japan. After the war, he flew transport aircraft in the Berlin Airlift. He completed 97 airlift missions in support of the people of free Germany. During the Vietnam War he served as a B-52 pilot and Operations Officer in Utapao, Thailand. He continued to serve his country in various operations positions throughout the world. While at Columbus AFB he was Squadron Commander of the SAC Detachment. Lt. Col. Alexander retired in 1974 while still an active B-52 bomber pilot. He was awarded The Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, numerous Air Medals, European/Pacific and other Campaign and Service Medals. Lt. Col. Alexander was a graduate of Mississippi State University and member of Annunciation Catholic Church. He loved to hunt and fish with sons and grandsons and was preceded in death by his wife, Elsie Esther Iacobucci Alexander.
Survivors include sons, James H. Alexander (Kathy) of Corpus Chrisi, TX, Mark G. Alexander (Kathy) of Columbus, daughters, Patricia J. Alexander, Jessica L. Alexander, and Jamie J. Davidson (Jim), all of Columbus, grandchildren, Michael Davidson (Nicole) of Collierville, TN, Ben Davidson (Melinda) of Arlington, VA, Elizabeth Davidson of New York City, NY, Lauren Alexander of Chicago, IL, Jamie Alexander of Houston, TX, Jake Alexander of Corpus Christi, TX, Amanda Koger (Joseph) of Hamilton, MS, Mark Alexander, Jr. (Alison) of Columbus, Matthew Alexander of Starkville, MS, and Mary Margaret Alexander of Columbus, and 5 great grandchildren.
Pallbearers will be the Columbus Air Force Base Honor Guard.
Retha Mann Roush
Cedar Bluff, Mississippi - Retha Mann Roush, 84, died, Wednesday, June 17, 2009 at her home in Cedar Bluff. Retha Mann Roush was born September 8, 1924 in Webster County Mississippi to the late Ada Columbia Griffin and John D. Robinson. She had worked at Monte Glove Company, earlier she had worked in for the Old Cotton Mill in Starkville and was a Baptist.
Funeral services will be Friday, June 19, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. from Calvert Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Charles Dampeer officiating. Burial will follow in Double Springs Cemetery near Maben. Calvert Funeral Home of West Point is in charge of arrangements.
Survivors include six daughters, Pearlene Kellum, Nora Milican both of West Point, Oneta Childers of Cedar Bluff, Bonnie Myers of Mathiston, Reba Hood of Maben and Lisa Craven of Mathiston, three sons, Calvin Mann of Birmingham, AL, Tommy Mann of Cedar Bluff, Glenn Mann of Woodland; 27 grandchildren; 58 great grandchildren; and 6 great-great grandchildren.
Pallbearers will be Keith Mann, Shannon Clardy, Dennis Clardy, Eugene Clardy, Dusty Craven, and Curtis Clardy.
Visitation will be Thursday, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Calvert Funeral Home.
Percy Brooks, Sr.
MACON - Percy Brooks, Sr., 97, died June 14, 2009, at Noxubee General Hospital in Macon. Services are Friday from 11 a.m. at the Tabernacle MB Church in Macon. Visitation is today from noon-3 p.m. at Lee Sykes Funeral Home Chapel, of Macon. The wake will be today from 5-7 p.m. at Sylvan Ridge MB Church in Macon with the Rev. Ron Wilson officiating; family time is from 4-5 p.m. Burial will follow at Sylvan Ridge/Tabernacle Cemetery of Macon. Mr. Brooks was born Oct. 15, 1911, in Macon, to the late Mr. Walter Walker and Lillian Brooks. His parents were deceased at an early age, so he was raised by his grandparents, Wil and Amanda Brooks. He is retired from the brick plant. He served in the following capacities: Sunday school teacher, a superintendent of Sunday school, president of the Baptist Training Union, church clerk, secretary of the First James Creek State convention, trustee of M and I College and First James Creek Association, president of the THM & S (Toliver Chapel, Hope Well, Mount Mariah and Sylvan Ridge) Protem and other civic capacities. In 1945, he was ordained a deacon of Sylvan Ridge MB Church. He was named the 2004 Greatest Dad by The Colom Foundation, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and Cumulus Broadcasting. He is survived by his wife, Callie Harlan Brooks, of Macon; sister, Danella Cooper, of Chicago; sons, Hayden Williams, of Gulfport, Harlan Brooks, of St. Louis, Howard German, of Tuscaloosa, Ala., Percy Brooks Jr., of Jackson, Wil Brooks, of North Carolina, George Brooks, of Jackson and Bernard Brooks, of Macon; sisters, Drew Meeks, of St. Louis, Lillian Townsend, of Columbus, and Hazel Brooks, of Macon; 27 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, and 35 great-great-grandchildren.
Bruce Eugene "Booty" Hickman
CARROLLTON, Ala. - Bruce Eugene "Booty" Hickman, 70, died June 16, 2009, at DCH Regional Medical Center, in Tuscaloosa. Services are Friday at 11 a.m. at Carrrollton Baptist Church, with the Rev. Larry Potts officiating. Visitation is tonight from 6-8 p.m. at the Skelton Funeral Home, of Reform. The body will lie in state 30 minutes prior to the service. Burial will follow at Marvin Chapel Cemetery. Mr. Hickman was born Feb. 28, 1939, in Reform, Ala., to the late Samuel E. Hickman and Mary Ruth Edgeworth Hickman. He was a member of Carrollton Baptist Church, a retired mechanic for Gordo Motor Co., a veteran of the U.S. National Guard and a life long resident of Pickens County. Mr. Hickman is survived by his wife, Sue Hickman, of Carrrollton, Ala.; daughter, Donna Hickman Nance, of Carrollton.; sons, Don and Perry Hickman, both of Carrollton, and Tim Hickman, of Gordo, Ala.; sisters, Virginia Lee, of Columbus, Nell Jacobs, of Pascagoula, and Muriel Pearson, of Aliceville, Ala.; eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Pallbearers are Will Nance, Josh Hickman, Shane Nance, Jimmy Phelps, Sonny Noland and David Cameron.
Cora Murff Pennington
ABERDEEN - Cora Murff Pennington, 93, died June 16, 2009, at Pioneer Community Hospital-Aberdeen. Services are today at 2 p.m. at the Tisdale-Lane Memorial Chapel in Aberdeen with the Rev. Jack Inmon officiating. Burial will follow in the New Prospect Cemetery. She was born Oct. 4, 1915, to Elbert Lee Funderburk and Elizabeth Lizzie Duncan Funderburk in Franklin County, Ala. She lived most of her life in Monroe County, where she retired as a seamstress at Seminole Manufacturing. She was a member of New Prospect Baptist Church. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Woodie Wilford Murff Sr., and one grandchild. Mrs. Pennington is survived by her sons, Woodie Murff Jr. and Bobby Gene Murff; sister, Earnestine Wheat, of New Mexico; and two grandchildren. Pallbearers are deacons of New Prospect Baptist Church.
Christine Risher
MACON - Christine Risher, 96, died June 15, 2009, at her residence. Services are tomorrow at 2 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Macon. Visitation is one hour prior to the service, with the Rev. Stacy Douglas officiating. Burial will follow at the Good Hope Baptist Church Cemetery in Winston County. Mrs. Risher was born Dec. 24, 1913, to the late James Edward and Genola McAdory Chancellor. She was a home economist and teacher. She was a native of Winston County and a graduate of Macon High School. She received an associate degree from East Mississippi Junior College at Scooba and a bachelor's degree in home economics from the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Ala. Mrs. Risher was a home demonstration agent for the U.S. Extension Service in Pontotoc County and later in Lee County and also served in that capacity in Calhoun County, Ala. She returned to Noxubee County in the early 1960's to take care of her parents. It was at this time that she began teaching home economics at Noxubee County High School and later at Noxubee County Vo-tech. She retired in 1981. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Macon. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Carmen; and brother, James. She is survived by her son, Christopher Lee Risher, of Jackson; and one grandson.
Maudeen Hanson Webb
DETROIT, Ala. - Maudeen Hanson Webb, 89, died June 17, 2009, at Golden Living Nursing Home in Winfield. Services are Friday at 11 a.m. at the Otts Funeral Home Chapel, with the Rev. Tommy Whaley officiating. Visitation is today from 6-8 p. m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at the Pleasant Site Cemetery in Detroit, Ala. Ms. Webb was born Aug. 7, 1919, in Lauderdale County, Ala., to the late Thomas Jefferson Stark and Annie Bell McInnish Stark. She was married to the late Edgar Hanson and later to the late James Clarence Webb. Ms. Webb was a member of the Pleasant Site Freewill Baptist Church. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her eight brothers and two sisters. She is survived by her daughter, Doris Jean Flynn, of Sulligent, Ala.; two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Ozie Gray Woods
SULLIGENT, Ala. - Ozie Gray Woods, 81, died June 15, 2009, at the Care Center, of Vernon. Services are Friday at 1 p.m. at the Otts Funeral Home Chapel, with the Rev. Harris Wallace officiating. Visitation is Friday from 9 a.m. until time of the service. Burial will follow in the Fairview Cemetery. Ms. Woods was born Sept. 2, 1927, in Lamar County, Ala., to the late Henry Woods and Mary Wallace Woods. She was a member of the Roxanna Baptist Church. She attended Roxanna School in Beaverton. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brothers, Clarence, Clyde, Otto, N.T., and J.T. Woods; and sisters, Florence Smith, Willie Harton and Bessie Wallace.
Robert Hunter Stanley
Robert Hunter Stanley, 74, died Saturday, June 13, 2009, in Columbus, Mississippi. Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 16, 2009, at Caledonia Church of Christ, Caledonia, Mississippi. Services will be conducted by Curtis (Sonny) McLellan and Shane Meredith. Visitation was held Monday, June 15, 2009, at Memorial Funeral Home from 5:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Robert was born April 22, 1935, in Lowndes County to the late Albert Quitman and Janie Hunter Stanley. With the exception of his service in the U. S. Air Force, Robert lived all of his life in Caledonia, Mississippi. He married Mavis Claudine Seely, known to friends and family as Polly, of Hamilton, Mississippi in 1956, and they were blessed with three children. Robert retired from Columbus Air Force Base in 2001 where he was employed as a civil service instrument mechanic. Robert also enjoyed careers as a broadcast engineer for WCBI Radio and as an aircraft mechanic, also at Columbus Air Force Base. Performing any task with excellence and great attention to detail, Robert pursued his careers as well as his farming and his favorite hobby, model railroading. Robert’s greatest legacy to his children is his integrity and spirit of generosity. Mr. Stanley was preceded in death by his parents and an infant brother. Mr. Stanley is survived by his wife of 52 years, Mavis Claudine Seely Stanley; his eldest daughter, Beverly Joan Stanley Arndt (married to Earl); his son, Robert Dwayne Stanley (married to Pat); his youngest daughter Pamela Dawn Stanley West (married to Juston); grandchildren, Joshua Charles Robert Arndt (married to Elizabeth), Sarah Elizabeth Arndt Caldwell (married to Kenny), Jennifer Leah Stanley Williams (married to Dylan), Samantha Kay Stanley and, Jordan Lee West. Serving as pallbearers are Joshua Arndt, Jordan West, Kenny Caldwell, Dylan Williams, Jeremy Guess, Tommy Clegg and Jeremy West.
Jack F. Bynum
UNION - Jack F. Bynum, 80, died June 15, 2009, at Rush Hospital in Meridian Services are today at 2 p.m. at Milling Funeral Home Chapel of Union with the Rev. Ed Knox officiating. Visitation will be held today from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at the Beulah Baptist Church Cemetery. Mr. Bynum was a deacon, former Sunday School teacher, and former choir director of Beulah Baptist Church. He was a Gideon of The Newton County Camp. He was also a former advertising director of The Meridian Star and editor of the Newton Record. He served a total of 37 years in the newspaper industry. He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Bynum. Survivors include his wife, Maxine Bynum, of Decatur; brother, Donald Bynum, of Meridian; sons, Bobby Bynum, of Decatur, and Billy Bynum, of Waynesboro; daughters, Jackie Sheehan, of Little Rock, and Frankie Germany, of Union; eight grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Randel Huey, Ricky Harrison, William Huey, Haley Snowden, Jimmie Nicholson and Gary Pinson.
Gary Wayne Ezelle
CARROLLTON, Ala. - Gary Wayne Ezelle, 59, died June 15, 2009, at the VA Medical Center, in Tuscaloosa. Services are tomorrow at 2 p.m. at Pickensville Baptist Church with the Rev. Tim Jones officiating. Visitation is tonigt from 6-8 p.m. at Skelton Funeral Home, of Reform, Ala. The body will lie in state 30 minutes before the services at the church. Burial will follow at the Marvin Chapel Cemetery in Carrollton with full military honors. He is preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Frances Ezelle Stinson; brothers, Babe, Joe, Ted, Roy, Murphy and E.G. Murphy. Mr. Ezelle is survived by his wife, Kathy Ezelle, of Pickensville, Ala.; daughter, Michele of Pickensville; son, Patrick Murphy, of Pickensville, Ala.; and two grandchildren.
Odie Robert Harris
VERNON - Odie Robert Harris, 68, died June 15, 2009, at his residence. Services were Tuesday at Chandler Funeral Home, of Vernon, with the Revs. Jesse Phillips and E. J. Johnson officiating. Burial followed at Christian Chapel, Vernon, Ala. Mr. Harris was born Jan. 10, 1941. He was a logger. He is survived by his son, Harlan Harris, of Vernon, Ala.; daughter, Kay Tyler, of West Point; brothers, Talmer Harris, of Hamilton, Ala., Delmar Harris, of Vernon, Ala. and Audie Harris, of Gadsden, Ala.; sister, Susie Clark, of Horn Lake; nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Agnes A. Kennedy
AMORY - Agnes A. Kennedy, 89, died June 15, 2009, at the Gilmore Memorial Regional Medical Center-Amory. Services are today at 10 a.m. at the E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Rev. Warren Coile officiating. Visitation will continue until service time at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Masonic Cemetery. She was born May 10, 1920, in Itawamba County to the late Casper W. and Travis Ann Gideon. She moved to Amory at two years old and she was a graduated from Amory High School. She worked for the Mississippi Gas Co., J.O. Prude Sr., attorney, Caldwell Furniture and American Funeral Insurance, where she worked as an underwriter until her retirement at age 75. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Amory where she worked with the primary children's department. She was a member of the Aurora Club being active for 66 years. She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by one brother, Charles W. Kennedy, of Amory
Leamon R. "Bob" King
DETROIT, Ala. - Leamon R. "Bob" King, 93, died June 15, 2009, at the NMMC-Tupelo. Services are today at 11 a.m. at Detroit United Methodist Church, where the body will lie in state from 10-11 a.m. Burial will follow in the Kingsville Cemetery. Mr. King was born on May 29, 1916, in Detroit, Ala., to the late Marvin White King and Annie Brown Holloway King. He was a member of the Detroit United Methodist Church. He attended Byrd School and graduated from Hamilton High School. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during WWII. He worked for the Frisco Railroad, Reltoc Manufacturing and Detroit Slacks as a fabrics spreader and cutter. He also worked as a truck driver, farmer and a cattleman. He was a mason and a member of the Lions Club. He is preceded in death by his sister, Geraldine Real; brother, Raymond King and Webster King; and two granddaughters. He is survived by his wife, Marguerite Mendenhall King, of Detroit, Ala.; son, Ricky King, of Detroit, Ala.; brother, R. J. King, of Sulligent, Ala.; sisters, Christeen Sledge and Gaythal Prothro, both of Sulligent, Ala. and Mavoline Dalton, of Detroit, Ala.; and two grandchildren.
Marjorie Redus McDonald
REFORM, Ala. - Marjorie Redus McDonald, 97, died June 10, 2009, at Cherry Hill, N.J., formerly of Reform, Ala. Services are today at 11 a.m. at Reform First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Susie Knedlik officiating. The body will lie in state 30 minutes prior to the service and visitation will follow the service at the church. Burial will follow at Graham Memorial Cemetery, of Reform. Skelton Funeral Home, of Reform, is in charge of the arrangements. Mrs. McDonald was born Nov. 24, 1911, Oakman, Ala. to the late Rev. Edward B. Redus, minister of the Methodist Church in Oakman and Della Marchbanks Redus. She graduated from Jones Valley High School and Birmingham Southern College. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, of Reform, where she participated in church services, taught school at Pickens County High School and worked for the State of Alabama as a social worker in Carrollton. She is preceded in death by her husband, Curry McDonald; sisters, Robbie Howington, of Century, Fla., Irma Adair, of Montgomery, Ala. and Elizabeth Trow, of Hapeville, Ga.; and her brother, Edward Redus, of Orlando, Fla. She is survived by her daughter, Janet Riddle, of Cherry Hill, N.J.; one grandson; and one great-granddaughter.
Betty J. Parker
DEKALB, Ala. - Ms. Betty J. Parker, 76, died June 14, 2009, at Mississippi Care Center, of Dekalb. Services are today at 10 a.m. at the Stephens Funeral Home Chapel, Dekalb with the Rev. Jammie Bailey officiating. Burial will follow at the Cedar Lawn Cemetery, in Scooba, Miss. Mrs. Parker is survived by her sisters, Leona P. Thomas, of Scooba, Janell P. McArthur, of Dekalb, Janiece P. Montgonery, of Columbus, and Birdie P. Sharp, of Bossier City, La.; brother, John R. Parker, of Scooba.
Cora Murff Pennington
ABERDEEN - Cora Murff Pennington, 93, died June 16, 2009, at Pioneer Community Hospital-Aberdeen. Services are tomorrow at 2 p.m. at the Tisdale-Lane Memorial Chapel in Aberdeen with the Rev. Jack Inmon officiating. Visitation is from 5-8 tonight at the funeral home. Burial will follow in the New Prospect Cemetery. She was born Oct. 4, 1915, to Elbert Lee Funderburk and Elizabeth Lizzie Duncan Funderburk in Franklin county, Ala. She lived most of her life in Monroe county, where she retired as a seamstress at Seminole Manufacturing. She was a member of New Prospect Baptist Church. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Woodie Wilford Murff Sr.; and one grandchild. Mrs. Pennington is survived by her sons, Woodie Murff Jr. and Bobby Gene Murff; sister, Earnestine Wheat, of New Mexico; and two grandchildren.
Jerry Wade "Six Speed" Plowman
GORDO, Ala. - Jerry Wade "Six Speed" Plowman, 46, died June 15, 2009, in Gordo, Ala. Services are tomorrow at 2 p.m. at Skelton Funeral Home Chapel with the Revs. Jimmy Pritchett and Mike Skelton officiating. Visitation is tonight from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at the Zion Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery. M. Plowman was born April 30, 1963, in Tuscaloosa. He was a member of Big Hill Baptst Church and he was employed as a supervisor for the Pickens County Road Department. He is preceded in death by his father, Cecil Plowman and his grandparents. Mr. Plowman is survived by his wife, Lisa Plowman, of Gordo, Ala.; sons, Joseph, John Travis, and Jerry D. Plowman, all of Gordo, Ala.; mother, Betty Plowman, of Gordo, Ala.; and one grandchild. Pallbearers are Matt Huffman, Brad Akin, Aaron Abston, John Michael Fair, Mark G?ray, Chris Sexton, Justin and Josh Jones.
Sherman Edwards
WEST POINT- Sherman Edwards, 90, died June 7, 2009, at the Carrrington Nursing Home in Starkville. Services are today at 1 p.m. at Strong Hill Missionary Baptist Church in West Point. Visitation was Monday at Carter's Mortuary Service. Burial will follow at the church Cemetery in West Point with the Rev.Israel Lee officiating. Carter's Mortuary Services of West Point is in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Edwards is preceded by his wife, Arcenie Edwards; parents, Chester and Chuckie T. Edwards; brothers, Chester Edwards Jr., Arnell Edwards, Lewis Dunlap and Willie Edwards. He is survived by a brother, George Washington Edwards; and a stepdaughter Willie Mae Booker, both of West Point.
Evelyn Tucker Guthrie
Evelyn Tucker Guthrie , 91, died June 14, 2009, at Arrington Assisted Living Facility in Columbus. Services are Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Heritage Chapel Funeral Home in Tuscaloosa with the Rev. Joe Guthrie officiating. Visitation is Wednesday for one hour preceding the funeral at the funeral home. Mrs. Guthrie was formerly of Tuscaloosa, Ala., and a member of Alberta Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday school for 50 years. She moved to Columbus to the Arrington eight years ago. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Guthrie; brother, Doug Tucker; and two great-grandchildren. She is survived by her daughter, Mary Willcutt, of Columbus; son, Joe Guthrie, of Chattanooga, Tenn.; seven grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers are Brian Benson, Jon Guthrie, Derek Hodnett, Dwight Hooper, Brent Thompson and Brad and Jason Willcutt.
Betty Lenoir
Betty Lenoir, 93, died June 8, 2009, at NMMC-West Point. Services are tomorrow at 2 p.m. at Pleasant Plain Missionary Baptist Church in Prairie with the Rev. Israel Lee officiating. Visitation is today from 3-6 p.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services of West Point. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Mrs. Lenoir is preceded in death by her husband, Cliff Lenoir; parents, Dee and Emmaline Jones; sisters, Mattie Cook, Marnervia Howard, Mary Scott and Addie Evans; and brothers, Henry, Earnest, Jimmie, Willie and Steve Jones. Her survivors are her children, Kenny and Gusta Mae Howard, both of West Point.
Gearl Wayne Greggs
Gearl Wayne Greggs, 67, died June 13, 2009 at his residence in Columbus. Services are today at 1 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbus with Elbert Lee Wheat officiating. Burial will follow at Friendship Cemetery. Mr. Greggs was born May 2, 1942, in Covington, Tenn., to the late James P. and Laura Starnes Greggs. He was a longtime Columbus resident and helped manage Hardin's Superette for the past 15 years. In addition to his parents, Greggs was preceded in death by three brothers, one sister and two great-grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Faye Taggart Greggs, of Columbus; daughters, Laura Dulin, of Oxford, and Jodie Dye, of Senatobia; sons, Rodney Greggs and Ricky Hardin, both of Columbus; sister, Jean Honnoll, of Columbus; brother, Billy Joe Greggs, of Covington, Tenn.; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Jacob Greggs, Chris Marsh, James Edwards, Stanley Taggart, Kevin Taggart and Doug Hill.
Ella Mae Heller
WEST POINT - Ella Mae Heller, 88, died June 14, 2009, at North Miss. in West Point. Services are Tuesday at 10 a.m. at Calvert Funeral Home Chapel in West Point with the Rev. Zane Parker officiating. Visitation is today 5 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Pine Bluff Cemetery near Mantee. Mrs. Heller was born Jan. 15, 1921, in Mantee to the late Rachel Louella Cousins and the Rev. Barney P. Coleman. She was a seamtress at Knickerbocker Manufacturing in West Point and was a Baptist. She is preceded in death by a daughter, Vickie Heller; son, James Robert Heller, and brother, James Coleman. She is survived by a sister, Avenell Sannings of Corpus Christi, Tex.
Aaron Lee "Bubba" Martin II
CORINTH - Aaron Lee "Bubba" Martin II, 25, died June 13, 2009, at his home. Services are today at 2 p.m. at Magnolia Funeral Home Chapel of Memories in Corinth with the Rev Warren Jones officiating. Visitation is at the home of his grandparents at 118 County Road 405 Corinth, until time of the service. Burial will follow at Forrest Memorial Park. Magnolia Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Martin was of the Baptist faith and a 2002 graduate of Kossuth High School. He was a UPS driver and a painter. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Allen E. Martin Sr; Joseph Palmer, Tara Linzmaier; Lavoid and Joyce Burrow; and an uncle, Ricky L. Martin. He is survived by his father, Aaron Lee Martin and wife Polly of Walnut; brothers, Cody, Troy, Daniel and Billy Martin, all of Walnut; sisters, Ashley, Alesha and Trinity Martin, all of Walnut, Haley Knight, Joanna and Summer Barton, all of Corinth; grandparents, John and Minnie Bradley of Corinth, and Harold Barton of Columbus. Pallbearers are Jason Sprouse, Patrick Porterfield, Scott Tedford, Matt Cummings, Michael Ross, and Richard Fiveash.
Bessie Earl Oliver
MACON -Bessie Earl Oliver, 76, died June 8, 2009, at her residence. Services are today at 1 p.m. at New Hope United Methodist Church in Macon. Visitation is one hour prior to services at the Lee-Sykes Funeral Home Chapel in Macon. Burial will follow at St. Michael Cemetery in Macon. Mrs. Oliver dedicated her life to educating children. She started her career at M & M Head Start Center where she served for many years. She was later hired as a teacher's assistant with the Noxubee County School District. She retired after 25 years. At St. Michael she served as financial secretary, Sunday school teacher, member and chairperson of the PPR committee and member of the trustee board. She is preceded in death by her husband, Hoover Oliver Sr.; a child; sons, William Oliver, of Macon, and Hoover Oliver Jr., of Countryside, Ill.; daughters, Elmyra Washington, of Chicago, Rita Oliver, of Lewisville, Texas and Bonita Oliver, of New Orleans; sisters, Mary Hopkins of Macon, Earnestine Hopkins and Minnie Long, of Chicago; brother, James Long of Macon; seven grandsons, four granddaughters, four great-granddaughters, and one great-grandson.
James Andrew Powell
AMORY - James Andrew Powell, 86, died June 12, 2009, at Riverplace Nursing Center in Amory. Services were Sunday at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory. Burial followed at Haughton Memorial Park. Mr. Powell was born June 17, 1922, in Becker to the late Robert Allen Powell and Mamie Hunell Powell Gosa. He lived in Becker before moving to Amory. He worked for Wilson's Manufacturing, the city of Amory sanitation department and he was a farmer. He was a member of the Trace Road Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Robert Allen Powell Jr; half-brothers, Joe and Noel Gosa; sister, Mary Powell; stepdaughter, Paulette Gosa Miller; and three stepgrandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Louise Miles Powell of Amory. Pallbearers were Mike Edgeworth, Will Fowlkes, Neil Palmer, Jake Clement, Drew Edgeworth, Vincent Miles and Chuck Clement.
J. B. Robertson, Sr.
SULLIGENT, Ala. - J. B. Robertson, Sr., 79, died June 13, 2009, at Marion Regional in Hamilton. Services are Tuesday at 2 p.m. at Otts Funeral Home Chapel in Sulligent, Ala., with military honors to follow in Wesley Chapel Cemetery, with the Revs. Clark and W.T. Allison officiating.Visitation is today at 1–5 p.m. at Belle Memorial Funeral Home of Aberdeen. Burial will follow at Mt. Union Cemetery of Aberdeen. Mr. Robertson is preceded in death by his parents, Robert Lee and Dessie Mae Robertson. He is survived by his wife, Colleen Edgeworth Robertson of Detroit, Ala.; sons, Johnny Robertson of Hamilton, Ala., and Mitchell Robertson of Sulligent, Ala.; daughters, Rita Gilmore, of Hamilton, Ala., Polly Bow of Detroit, Ala. and Karen Pennington of Sulligent, Ala.;brothers, Charles Robertson of Bay City, Texas, and Robert Lanier Robertson of Kiln; sisters, Eve Maines of Longview, Texas, Grace Goodman of Nashville, Tenn., Nell Lebeau of Newport, N.C., and Ivalene Tallant of Aberdeen; and 15 grandchildren and 19 grandchildren.
Tavaris Lashawn Shelton
VERONA - Tavaris Lashawn Shelton, 15, died June 6, 2009, at the Tombigbee River. Services are Tuesday at 1:30 at Plantersville Middle School Gym with the Rev. Darrell Tate officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Union Church Cemetery in Aberdeen. Belle Memorial Funeral Home of Aberdeen is in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Shelton is preceded in death by his grandmother, Jessie Mae Walker. He is survived by his father, Michael Walker; mother, Shalonda Hardin; brothers, Brandon, Michael and Cameron Walker; sisters, Makala and Keitashia Shelton of Verona, and Jalisa and Makaila Walker, both of Aberdeen.
Willie Pearl Taylor
BROOKSVILLE - Willie Pearl Taylor, 61, died June 11, 2009, in Brooksville at Oktibbeha County Hospital. Services are Tuesday at noon at the Second Baptist M.B. Church in Brooksville with Terry Franklin and Khristy Franklin officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Samuel Cemetery in Brooksville. Visitation will be today from noon-5 p.m. at the Lee-Sykes Funeral Home in Macon. Mrs. Taylor was born Feb. 28, 1948, in Brooksville to Caleb King Jr. and Ella Mae Malone. She was a former Mississippi University for Women cafeteria worker, caterer and homemaker. She is survived by her husband, the Rev. Fred Taylor Jr.; daughters, Jannie Berrett, of Orlando, Fla., and Minister Lisa Silvers, of Brooksville; sons, Eddie Franklin, of Macon, David Franklin and Pastor Terry Franklin, both of Brooksville; brothers Albert Lee Gardner and Micah Roby, both of Brooksville; stepbrothers, Tommy Roby, of Macon, J.C. May, of New Orleans; stepsisters, Betty Edmonds, of Columbus, and Margaret Humphries, of Brooksville. Pallbearers will be all family and friends.
Ollie Mae Bain
ALICEVILLE, Ala. - Ollie Mae Bain, 91, died June 12, 2009, at Aliceville Manor Nursing Home. Services are Monday at 11 a.m. at Springhill Baptist Church in Carrollton, Ala., with the Revs. Tommy Smothers and Bert Noland officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the church. Mrs. Bain was born Dec. 7, 1917, in Madison County, Ala., to the late Houston Godwin and Kate Caston Godwin. She was a member of Springhill Baptist Church, a homemaker and a resident of Pickens County, Ala. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Aus Hinds Bain. She is survived by her daughter, Barbara Wicker, of Northport, Ala.; son, Joe Bain, of Carrolton, Ala.; sister, Hazel Rutledge, of Mobile, Ala.; brothers, A.G. Godwin, of Columbus, and Lenford Godwin, of Albertville, Ala.; five grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be John Stathapoulos, Roy Bain, Adam Wicker, Howard Cornelus, Nelson Godwin and Orval Godwin.
Rebecca Coggin
AMORY - Rebecca Coggin, 89, died June 12, 2009, at Oak Tree Plantation in Amory. Services are Monday at 1 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Amory with the Revs. Warren Coile and David Laman officiating. Burial will follow at Haughton Memorial Park. Visitation is today from 12:30-3:30 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home of Amory and will continue until 12:45 p.m. Monday. Mrs. Coggin was born May 4, 1920, in Plantersville to the late Ralph Cunningham and Jessie Brown Cunningham Mullins. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in Amory where she was in the Friendship Sunday School Class, a member of the choir and United Methodist Women. She was a member of the Garden Club, Daughters of the American Revolution, Canasta Club and Dance Club. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William Carl Coggin Jr.; son, William Paul Coggin; sisters, Mary Frances Foster and Rachel Dukeminier; brother, Bennie Cunningham; and one great-granddaughter. She is survived by her daughters, Bennie Watson, of Punta Gorda, Fla., and Janice Kulp, of Oreland, Pa.; six grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Frank Carlisle, Dr. Robert Cole, Phil Roberts, Fred Heckart, Brad Wilson and Jimmy Bost.
Margaret Elizabeth Dollar
VERNON, Ala. - Margaret Elizabeth Dollar, 85, died June 12, 2009, at her residence in Vernon. Services are today at 2 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home in Vernon with David Woods officiating. Burial will follow at the Vernon City Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour before the service at Chandler Funeral Home. Mrs. Dollar was born Jan. 27, 1924, in Wadley, Ala., to the late Pansy and James P. Fuller. She was a homemaker. In addition to her parents, she is preceded by her husband, W.I. Dollar; son, Bill Dollar and one granddaughter. She is survived by her sons, Jim Dollar, of Vernon, Ala., and Ray Dollar and Roy Dollar, both of Santa Rosa Beach, Fla.; daughter, Carol Faulkner, of Vernon, Ala.; sister, Emma Clayton, of Birmingham, Ala., eight grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
Gearl Wayne Greggs
Gearl Wayne Greggs, 67, died June 13, 2009 at his residence in Columbus. Services are Monday at 1 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbus with Elbert Lee Wheat officiating. Burial will follow at Friendship Cemetery. Visitation will be held Sunday at Memorial Funeral Home from 6-8 p.m. Mr. Greggs was born May 2, 1942, in Covington, Tenn., to the late James P. and Laura Starnes Greggs. He was a longtime Columbus resident and helped manage Hardin's Superette for the past 15 years. In addition to his parents, Greggs was preceded in death by three brothers, one sister and two great-grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Faye Taggart Greggs, of Columbus; daughters, Laura Dulin, of Oxford, and Jodie Dye, of Senatobia; sons, Rodney Greggs and Ricky Hardin, both of Columbus; sister, Jean Honnoll, of Columbus; brother, Billy Joe Greggs, of Covington, Tenn.; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Jacob Greggs, Chris Marsh, James Edwards, Stanley Taggart, Kevin Taggart and Doug Hill.
Robert Grissomn
Robert Grissom, 85, died June 7, 2009, at Louisville Care Center. Services were Saturday at 11 a.m. at Mt. Carmel in Macon with the Rev. Jack Vaughan officiating. Burial followed at the church cemetery. Lee-Sykes Funeral Home in Macon was in charge of arrangements. Mr. Grissom was born Nov. 23, 1923. He was a farmer. He served as his church secretary, deacon and Sunday school teacher. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He received a good conduct medal, World War II Victory Medal and an American Campaign Medal. He is survived by his sons, Jim B. Johnson, of Jackson and Robert Grissom, of Macon; daughters, Zackie Carter, of Chicago and Faye Brown, of Macon; sisters, Pearl Ike Grissom, of Selma, Ala., and Lillie Mae Binion, of Macon; brothers, Willie Grissom, of Louisville and Earl Grissom, of Macon; 12 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.
Ruth Lucas
Ruth Lucas, age 84 passed away on Friday, June 12, 2009 at North Mississippi Medical Center, West Point, MS. Graveside services will be held Monday, June 15, 2009, at 11 AM at Providence #1 Cemetery, Montevallo, AL with Bro. Allen Foster officiating. Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing. Mrs. Lucas was born August 12, 1924, in Jemison, AL to the late Raymond and Nancy Chaney Butler. She was a resident of the Columbus, MS area for the past twenty years, having moved from Houma, LA. Mrs. Lucas was a homemaker, enjoyed working crossword puzzles, playing solitaire and Yahtzee. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, William C. Lucas, Sr.; son, William Lucas, Jr. and daughter, Shirley Carter. Mrs. Lucas is survived by her daughters, Karen Matherne, Columbus, MS; Kathy Curl, Panama City, FL; JoAnne Williams, Columbus, MS; Lynn Plumb, Columbus, MS and son, Gary Lucas, Scottsdale, AZ; twenty-seven grandchildren and a host of great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be her grandsons.
Bessie Earl Oliver
MACON - Bessie Earl Oliver, 76, died June 8, 2009, at her residence. Services are Monday at 1 p.m. at the New Hope United Methodist Church in Macon with the Rev. Ricky Lawson officiating. Burial will follow at the St. Michael Cemetery in Macon. Visitation is today from 1-3 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home in Macon. Mrs. Oliver was born Oct. 7, 1932, in Macon to the late Hyman and Addie Long. She was an educator who began teaching at the M&I Head Start Center before she was hired as a teacher assistant in the Noxubee County School District, where she served for 25 years. She was a member of the New Hope United Methodist Church and the St. Michael United Methodist Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Hoover Oliver Sr., and one child. She is survived by her sons, William Oliver, of Macon, and Hoover Oliver Jr., of Countryside, Ill.; daughters, Elmyra Washington, of Chicago, Rita Oliver, of Lewisville, Texas, and Bonita Oliver, of New Orleans; sisters, Mary Hopkins, of Macon, Ernestine Hopkins and Minnie Long, both of Chicago; brother James Long, of Macon; seven grandsons, four granddaughters, four great-granddaughters and one great-grandson.
Lehn Triplett Ouzts
VICTORVILLE, CA - Lehn Triplett Ouzts, 78, died May 20, 2009, in Victorville. Graveside services are Monday at 4 p.m. at Soule Chapel Cemetery in Macon. Visitation is Monday from 3-4 p.m. at the Cockrell Funeral Home of Macon with Allen Mapp officiating. Mr. Ouzts was born May 18, 1931, to the late John Calvin and Sarah Mason Outz. He retired as a U.S. Navy chief petty officer. He worked for the Savannah School District in Anaheim, Calif., where he worked as a janitor and the director of maintenance, operations and transportation for 25 years. He is preceded by his brother Kirk. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Ouzts, of Victorville, Calif., daughter, Lehnette Maye, of Victorville; sons, Michael Ouzts, of Apple Valley, Calif., and Marvin Ouzts, of Boring, Ore.; sister, Frances O. Banks, of Brooksville; brothers, Rhee Outz, of Macon and Alva Outz, of Hackleburg, Ala.; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
James Andrew Powell
AMORY - James Andrew Powell, 86, died June 12, 2009, at Riverplace Nursing Center in Amory. Services are today at 2 p.m. at the EE. Pickle Funeral Home in Amory with Tommy Whaley and Bill Payne officiating. Burial will follow in the Haughton Memorial Park in Amory. Visitation will be one hour before the service at the funeral home. He was born June 17, 1922, in Becker, to the late Robert Allen Powell and Mamie Hunell Powell Gosa. He worked at Wilson's Manufacturing in Amory, the Amory Sanitation Department and was a farmer. He was a member of the Trace Road Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Allen Powell Jr.; half-brothers, Joel and Noel Gosa; sister, Mary Powell; stepdaughter, Paulette Gosa Miller; and three step-grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Louise Miles Powell, of Amory. Pallbearers will be Mike Edgeworth, Will Fowlkes, Neil Palmer, Jake Clement, Drew Edgeworth, Vincent Miles and Chuck Clement.
Mevalene Smith
MILLPORT, Ala - Mevalene Smith, 88, died June 11, 2009, at Millport. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Dowdle Funeral Home in Millport with Kenneth Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Unity Grove in Palmetto. Mrs. Smith was born Aug. 20, 1920, in Liberty, Ala., to the late Willie D. and Lila Shelton Ruffin. She was a homemaker and member of Unity Grove Methodist Church. In addition to her parents, she is preceded by two grandchildren. She is survived by her husband, Frank James Smith, of Millport; daughters, Wencie Ann James, of Gordo, Ala., Gail Hallmark, of Birmingham, Ala., Lavonne Moore, of Kennedy, Ala., Regeania McAdams, of Kennedy, Shelby Burkhardt, of Starkville and Dewanda Wright, of Kennedy; sons, Larry Smith, of Atlanta, Doug and Tim Smith, both of Millport; 19 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren
Willie Pearl Taylor
MACON - Willie Pearl Taylor, 61, died June 11, 2009, in Macon. Services are Tuesday at noon at the Second Baptist M.B. Church in Brooksville with Terry Franklin and Khristy Franklin officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Samuel Cemetery in Brooksville. Visitation will be Monday at the Lee-Sykes Funeral Home in Macon. Mrs. Taylor was born Feb. 28, 1948, in Brooksville to Caleb King Jr. and Ella Mae Malone. She was a former Mississippi University for Women cafeteria worker, caterer and homemaker. She is survived by her husband, the Rev. Fred Taylor Jr.; daughters, Jannie Berrett, of Orlando, Fla. , and Minister Lisa Silvers, of Brooksville; sons, Eddie Franklin, of Macon, David Franklin and Pastor Terry Franklin, both of Brooksville; brothers Albert Lee Gardner and Micah Roby, both of Brooksville; stepbrothers, Tommy Roby, of Macon, J.C. May, of New Orleans; stepsisters, Betty Edmonds, of Columbus, and Margaret Humphries, of Brooksville. Pallbearers will be all family and friends.
Charles Jerome Younger
Charles Jerome Younger, age 78, of Columbus died June 12, 2009 at his residence. Funeral services will be Sunday, June 14, 2009, at 3:00 PM at First Baptist Church with Dr. Shawn Parker officiating and Gunter & Peel Funeral Home directing. A private family committal service will be immediately following at the Younger Family Cemetery. Visitation will also be Sunday, June 14, 2009, from 1:00 until 3:00 PM at First Baptist Church. Mr. Younger was a born on July 9, 1930 in Pickens County, AL to the late Roy Allen and Charlie Lee Fondren Younger, Sr. Mr. Younger was a graduate of S. D. Lee High School and veteran of the Korean War serving in the United States Army. Mr. Younger worked as a dairy farmer and rural mail carrier before being elected as Justice of the Peace Judge in 1967. He was elected and served as Chancery Clerk of Lowndes County from 1983 until his retirement in 2003. Mr. Younger was a member of the First Baptist Church, Columbus Host Lions Club, and the Gideons. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Jan Woolbright, and brothers, Taylor and Joe Younger. Mr. Younger is survivied by his wife of 56 years, Adrine Scarborough Younger of Columbus; son, Chuck Younger (Missy) of Columbus; daughters, Lisa Younger Neese (Michael), Tami Younger Guyton (Mickey), Pam Younger Henderson (Joey), and Danielle "D. J." Joy Younger Williams (Jason) all of Columbus; brothers, Roy Allen Younger, Jr. (Betty) and Ted Younger (Marlene) both of Columbus; sister, Marjorie Cox of Decatur, AL; and grandchildren, Joely K. Henderson, JoAnna Younger, Colton Younger, Stance Henderson, Michael Albert Younger, and Hope Williams, all of Columbus. Pallbearers will be Joey Henderson, Mickey Guyton, Michael Neese, Jason Williams, Dow Phillips, Colton Younger, Stance Henderson, and Albert Younger.
Fred A. Jones
Frederick Arthur Jones, 73, died June 10 at the University of Alabama-Birmingham Hospital. Services are Friday, June 12, 2009, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, with a visitation in the parish hall at 1 p.m. and the funeral service at 2:30 p.m., with the Very Rev. James Carlyle officiating. Burial will follow in Friendship Cemetery.Memorial Funeral Home handled the arrangements. Mr. Jones was born July 16, 1935 in Columbus to the late William Leicester Jones & Altie McGahey Jones, and graduated from the University of MS with a degree in busi- ness administration. He was a member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity. As a young man he worked at the license-tag plant operated by Columbus Marble Works and after college served in the Mississippi Army National Guard. He was president of the Columbus Marble Works and founded three businesses: Quality Products in 1964; Columbus Manufacturers in 1967; and Classroom Supply Mart in 1993. He was also associated with Maretta Harrah Marble in Sylacauga, AL, and Gulf States Manufacturing in Starkville. Mr. Jones was a lifelong member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, where he was a vestry-man, senior warden, member of the finance committee and a trustee for the endowment. He was a longtime member of the board of Trustmark Bank and had served on the board of the Lowndes County Public Library. He was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Hunter M. Gholson. He is survived by his wife, Beth Brown Jones; sister, Hortense Jones Gholson; step-mother, Brown Key Jones; daughters, Perrin Jones Kibler (Bryan) of Atlanta, GA & Bethea Jones Smith (Ken) of Columbus; and grandchildren, William McClintic Kibler, John Alton Kibler, Kirby Elizabeth Smith & Carter Reid Smith. Pallbearers were Mickey Brislin, John Davis, Rodney Glover, George Hazard, Gary Hughes, Tommy Lott, Tommy Moody, Chance Laws, Jim Mauldin & Gary Waldrop.
Pete Fenton
BROOKLYN, N.Y. - Pete Fenton, 41, died June 7, 2009, in Brooklyn. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Peter's Rock Church of God in Christ in Starkville with the Rev. Quincy Patterson officiating. Burial will follow at Public Cemetery. West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville is in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Fenton was born in Columbus. He is survived by his mother, Mary Fenton of Mayhew; sons, Da'Von McCullough and Lance Hesterbay, both of Brooklyn; sisters, Donna Fenton of Long Island, N.Y., and Tonja Fenton of Brooklyn, N.Y.; brothers, Jessie, Dan, and Norris Fenton, all of Brooklyn.
Robert Grissom
Robert Grissom, 85, died June 7, 2009, at Louisville Care Center. Services are Saturday at 1 p.m. at Mt. Carmel in Macon with the Rev. Jack Vaughan officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 1-5 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home in Macon. Mr. Grissom was born Nov. 23, 1923. He was a farmer. He served as his church secretary, deacon and Sunday school teacher. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He received a good conduct medal, World War II Victory Medal and an American Campaign Medal. He is survived by his sons, Jim B. Johnson of Jackson and Robert Grissom of Macon; daughters, Zackie Carter of Chicago and Faye Brown of Macon; sisters, Pearl Ike Grissom of Selma, Ala., and Lillie Mae Binion of Macon; brothers, Willie Grissom of Louisville and Earl Grissom of Macon; 12 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.
Dosie Lee Taylor Hawkins
OKTIBBEHA COUNTY- Dosie Lee Taylor Hawkins, 87, died on June 9, 2009, at Oktibbeha County Hospital. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at New Light Methodist Church in Starkville with the Rev. Eddie Hinton. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 1-4 p.m. at Century Hairston Funeral Home Chapel in Columbus. Mrs. Hawkins was born May 22, 1922, to the late Zeola Thompson Taylor and Frank Taylor. She was a member of New Light Methodist Church. She is survived by daughters, Alma Hawkins, Mary Ann Clayton and Kittie White; sons, Robert, Sammie, Tommie and Jimmie Hawkins; sister, Frankie Mae Rice and Parania Collago; 17 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Dave P. Lapeyrolerie
Dave P. Lapeyrolerie, 69, died June 8, 2009, in Columbus. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Annunciation Catholic Church with the Rev. Robert Dore officiating. Burial will follow at New Zion Church Cemetery in Steens. Visitation is today from noon-6 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus and Saturday for one hour prior to services at the church. Mr. Laperyolerie was born Nov. 17, 1950, at Mt. Airy, La., of the late Olga Mae Knight. He was a member of Knights of Columbus. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Lapeyrolerie of Columbus; daughters, Angela Rogers of Milwaukee and Casey Lapeyrolerie of Laplace, La.; sons, Andre Lipps of Laplace and Elliot Trimuel of Columbus; and four grandchildren. Pallbearers are Terry Dentry, Sylvain McQueen, Bernard Trimuel, Keith and Johnny Craddieth, and Roy McKnight.
Jasper Holmes Lipscomb, Jr.
MASHULAVILLE - Jasper Holmes Lipscomb, Jr., 88, died June 10, 2009 at his residence. Services are today at 2 p.m. at Mashulaville Baptist Church near Macon with Bro. Jerry Lundy officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today for one hour prior to services. Mr. Lipscomb was born March 31, 1921, in Mashulaville, to the late Jasper H. Lipscomb Sr. and Marnie Elizabeth Jernigan Lipscomb. He is a retired Bell South employee. He graduated from Mashulaville High School. At age 21, he entered the U.S. Army and served with the 12th Engineers Combat Battalion. He served in the European theater of the war and received four bronze stars for campaigns in Normandy, North France, Rhineland, and Central Europe. He returned to Jackson and began working for Southern Bell. He was a former member and deacon of Parkway Baptist Church of Jackson. He moved back to Mashulaville in 1983, where he was a member of Harmony Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Irene Jones Lipscomb of Mashulaville; sisters, Katherine Worrell of Utica, Mamie Lillian Lee of Hueytown, Ala., and Iris Joy Jordan of Hattiesburg; daughters, Judy Lipscomb Jones of Clinton and Linda Lipscomb Finnell of Lexington, S.C.; son, Paul A. Lipscomb of Arlington, Texas; seven grandsons and numerous great grandchildren.
Roderick Anthony, Jr.
Roderick Anthony, Jr., 78, died June 5, 2009, in Columbus. Services are Friday at 11 a.m. at Missionary Union Baptist Church with the Rev. Tony Montgomery Sr. officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery in Crawford. Visitation is today from 1-7 p.m. and the family will greet visitors from 6-7 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home Chapel in Columbus. Mr. Anthony was born Oct. 2l, 1930, in Columbus to the late Mary Jennings and Roderick Anthony Sr. He worked for Tri-Union Trucking Co. for 23 years and then started his own independent trucking business. He was a member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church. He is survived by his children, Willa Horton of Milwaukee, Issac Matthews, Darlene Taylor and Dwayne Anthony of Chicago, Patricia Blackmon of Muskegon, Mich., and Roderick Anthony III of Columbus; siblings, Murray, Elmer and Alodyle Anthony, Hazel Sheppard, Martha Jean Stevenson, Blannie Wallace, Ann Rivers and Vera West; 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchildren.
Preston Stanley Brown
TUPELO - Preston Stanley Brown, 65, died June 9, 2009, at Gilmore Memorial Regional Medical Center-Amory. Memorial services are Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at Eggville Freewill Baptist Church with the Rev. Richard Gann officiating. E.E. Pickle Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Brown was born Sept. 2, 1943, in Amory to the late Stanley Libran and Mazie Mitchell Brown. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran. Before retiring, he was a truck driver. He was a member of Eggville Freewill Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Methel Suddieth Brown of Tupelo; and sister, Winona Faye Brown Hicks of Fulton.
Willie Mary Gardner Dismuke
WEST POINT - Willie Mary Gardner Dismuke, 93, died June 7, 2009, at Dugan Memorial Home in West Point. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in West Point with the Rev. Eddie Longstreet officiating. Burial will follow at West Point Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Visitation is Friday from 3-6 p.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services of West Point. Mrs. Dismuke was preceded in death by her husband, William Henry Dismuke; parents, Earvin and Mary Lenoir Gardner; brothers, Price Ivy, E. Jerry and Albert Gardner; and sisters, Missouri Gardner Turner and Dora Gardner Carter. She is survived by her sons, Frankie A. Anderson of West Point and Rickey J. Dismuke of Macon, Ga.; daughters, Lois J. Smith and Alicia Randle, both of West Point; sisters, Annie Gardner Davis of Chicago and Catherine Gardner of West Point; 11 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
Joe Clifton Fair
WEST POINT - Joe Clifton Fair, 64, died June 4, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Services are Friday at 11 a.m. at Pleasant Grove Pool's Missionary Baptist Church in West Point with the Rev. James A. Richardson officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today at 3-6 p.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services in West Point. Mr. Fair was preceded in death by his wife, Sarah E. Evans; parents, Frank and Louise Fair; and sister, Mary A. Wilson. He is survived by his sons, Ronnie, Anthony L. and Johnnie R. Fair, all of West Point; brothers, Frank Jr., James E. and Freddie L. Fair, all of West Point, and Bobbie E. Fair of Aberdeen; sisters, Martha Fair, Virginia A. Williams and Katie E. Jones, all of West Point; 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Augusta Covington Rice
ALICEVILLE, Ala. - Augusta Covington Rice, 67, died June 6, 2009, at Darlington Oaks in Verona. Services were today at 11 a.m. at New Bethany Primitive Baptist Church in Aliceville. Burial followed at New Cemetery in Aliceville. Lavender's Funeral Service Inc. was in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Rice was born on July 24, 1941, to the late Gus and Minnie Whitlow. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her son, Jerry Covington. She is survived by her children, Dianna Vining of Warner Robins, Ga., Eddie Covington of Columbus, Patricia Henderson of Montgomery, Ala., and Henry Covington, Lativina Lee and Timothy Covington, all of Macon, Ga., and Christopher Covington of Marietta, Ga.; brothers, Charles Chambry and Bernard Williams; and 20 grandchildren.
Debra J. Walker
ABERDEEN - Debra J. Walker, 53, died June 6, 2009, at Northeast Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Services are Friday at 2 p.m. at Fluker-Reed Activity Center with Annie Whitmore and the Rev. Hansel Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Odd Fellows Cemetery. Visitation is today from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. with family hour from 6-7 p.m. at Westbrooks Funeral Home in Aberdeen, and the body will be at the activity center one hour prior to services on Friday. Mrs. Walker was an assistant teacher at Belle Elementary for 17 years. She was a member of Morgan Chapel CME Church in Aberdeen. She is survived by her husband, James Walker; son, Dewayne Walker and Dionne Barry, all of Aberdeen; mother, Roxemary Carter of Aberdeen; brothers, the Rev. Hansel Jones of Fayetteville, N.C., Ricky and Christopher Carter, both of Aberdeen, and James and Jeffrey Watkins, both of Las Vegas; sisters, Earnestine Carter of Amory, Sheila McMillian of Jacksonville, Fla., Shereese Farlin, and Doretha and Patricia Watkins, all of Las Vegas; and six grandchildren.
Kenneth Jerome Ingraham
Kenneth Jerome Ingraham, 62, died June 5 at his residence in the New Hope community. Mr. Ingraham was born Feb. 21, 1947 in Alexandria, LA to the late Kenneth G. Ingraham & Earlene Ortego Ingraham. He was a Jeweler and watchmaker for 30 years in Alexandria, LA, where he resided for 50 years before moving to New Hope when his grandchildren were born. Kenneth enjoyed BBQ and fellowship with his friends. He lived in the moment and to know him was to love him. He was preceded in death by his son, Ricky Paul Ingraham; and sister, Juliette Robin. He is survived by his daughter, Tammy Ingraham Forrester (Randall); grandchildren, Hillari & Ryan Forrester of Columbus; cousins, Don Juneau & Melinda Barton of New Orleans, LA; and niece, Debbie Marie of Pollock LA.
“To my sweet daddy. You were here yesterday and gone today. I miss you so much and each day with you was a blessing. You will be dearly missed and forever in my heart. Thank you for being my Dad. Love always, Tammy Ingraham Forrester.”
Don Foster
West Point—Don Foster, 70, died June 6 at his residence. Graveside services will be June 12, 2pm at Hebron Cemetery in Pheba, Rev. Bob Whiteside officiating. Visitation will be June 11, 5-8pm at Calvert Funeral Home of West Point, which is handling the arrangements. Mr. Foster was born Aug. 20, 1938 in Maben to the late Louella Lee & Atha M. Foster, and was Sports Editor Emeritus with the Starkville Daily News, where he worked for 40 years. He was a Methodist, and was preceded in death by brothers, Granville L. Foster, James L. Foster, A.M. Foster, Jr. & Larry Foster. He is survived by Charles Allen Foster (Kristy) of Saltillo; grandchildren, Madison Lee Foster & T.J. Jourdan of Saltillo; sister, Winnie F. McCaskill (Joe) of Oxford; and brother, Paul P. Foster of Raleigh, NC. Pallbearers will be Josh Weems, Ben Weems, Charlie Weems, Charles Allen Foster, Brian Hawkins & Don Norman.
Carolyn Ivy Collins
WEST POINT-Carolyn Ivy Collins, 68, died June 6, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Columbus. Services are Thursday at noon at Third Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church in West Point with the Rev. Eddie Longstreet officiating. Burial will follow at Fountain Head Church Cemetery. Visitation is today from 3-6 p.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services of West Point. Mrs. Collins was preceded in death by her father, Price Gardner; sisters, Lola Gardner and Tanya Swain. She is survived by her husband, Eddie Collins of West Point; mother, Sylvia Gardner of West Point; sons, Anthony and Reginald Gardner, both of West Point; daughters, Charlotte Lindsey, Regina Gardner and Angela Owens, all of West Point; stepdaughter, Debra Ford of West Point; brothers, William Gardner of West Point and Victor Gardner of Starkville; seven grandchildren, six stepgrandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Melvin Dean Hood
AMORY - Melvin Dean Hood, 89, died June 7, 2009, at his residence. Services are Friday at 2 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with the Rev. Glyn Wiygul officiating. Burial will follow at Haughton Memorial Park. Visitation is Thursday from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home and will continue until service time on Friday. Mr. Hood was born July 15, 1919, in Monroe County to the late John Roy and Addie Zepher Page Hood. He attended Bigbee and Amory schools. A lifelong resident of the Amory and Bigbee areas, he owned Hood's Cleaners in Amory with his brother, Robert, for 35 years before retiring. He was a charter member of the St. Andrew's United Methodist Church and served on the Official Board of Stewards and various committees at the church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Genevea Mae Wood, Roy Lamar Hood, Nell Louise Hood, Grace Jeanette Barnes, John Theron Hood and Marvin Elbert Hood. He is survived by his wife, Mable Elliot Conwill Hood.; son, Kennon Hood of Amory; brothers, James Orlan Hood of Olive Branch and Robert Page Hood of Amory; sister, Addie Etoyle Hood Earley of Madison, Ala.; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Pallbearers will be Jimmy Schermerhorn, Eric Larson, Ed Hood, Sgt. George Messina, Bob McDonald and Naveed Alim.
George Dee Franklin Pate
WREN - George Dee Franklin Pate, 75, died June 7, 2009, at Gilmore Memorial Regional Medical Center-Amory. Services are today at 2 p.m. at Bethel Baptist Church in Nettleton with Bro. Thomas Neal officiating. Burial will follow at Wren Cemetery. Visitation will continue until service time today at the church. E.E. Pickle Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. He was born Feb. 18, 1934, in Itawamba County to the late John Booker and Susie Mae Steele Pate. Before his retirement, he worked as an electrician for Walker Mfg. for 23 years. He was a Baptist. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Ackles Leo and Melvin Lecil Pate; and sisters, Etah McMickin, Euple Nell Watkins and Eugenia Ruth Smith. Survivors include his wife, Charlotte Brenda Kennedy Pate of Wren; daughters, Donna Haas of Shannon, Kimberly Steele of Wren and Judith Hall of Wren; sisters, Johnnie Mae Ital of Marissa, Ill., Charlie Ray Hurley of Amory, Elois Giernoth of Ingleside, Ill., and Enola Ann Powell of Huffman, Texas; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Pate Hall, Nicholas Haas, Tim Lamb, Brandon Neal, Randy McMickin and Keith Ital.
Billy Clinton Hester
CAROLINA - Billy Clinton Hester, 70, died June 7, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Services are today at 2 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Bro. Billy Funderburk and Bro. Terry Garret officiating. Burial will follow at Haughton Memorial Park. Visitation will continue until service time today at the funeral home. Mr. Hester was born March 1, 1939, in Monroe County to the late James Ruble and Gladys Sanders Hester. He worked in concrete construction for APAC. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Betty Jo Stanford. He is survived by his wife, Peggy Linda Hallmark Hester of Carolina; sons, Doug Hester of New Salem, David Hester of Carolina and Dale Hester of Peaceful Valley; brother, Nolan Hester of Cason; sisters, Ruth Enlow of Aberdeen, Sara Nash of Hatley and Ann Harlow of Bigbee; and eight grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Scott, Terry and Dewayne Hallmark, Nick Barron, Grant Harlow and Mike Hester.
William E. Richey
William E. Richey, 60, died June 3, 2009, at his residence in Columbus. Services are Wednesday at 1 p.m. at New Beginning FG Baptist Church with Pastor Glenn Jefferson Sr. officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Gardens. Visitation is today from 3-8 p.m, and the family will greet visitors from 6-7 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Mr. Richey was born Jan. 20, 1949, in Bigbee Valley to the late Henry and Mary Lee Manning Richey. He is a former member of El Bethel MB Church and a current member of New Beginning FG Baptist Church. He attended Hunt High School and served in the U.S. Army. He is survived by his wife, Lillian Ruth Jefferson Richey of Columbus; son, Shawn Jordan of Birmingham, Ala.; daughter, Crystal Turner of Washington; brothers, Charlie Richey, Aaron Mitchell, Johnny Richey all of Columbus, Roy Richey of Indiana, Tommy Richey of Missouri, Rufus Mitchell of Jackson and Johnny Mitchell of Virginia; sisters, Sallie Brownlee, Ruth Williams, Henrietta Richey, Doris Johnson all of Columbus, Mary Barlow of St. Louis and Bobbie Richey of Toledo, Ohio; and five grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Larry, Zerrick, Marcus, Bernard, Kendrick and Kahil Richey.
Henry Franklin Barham
WEST POINT - Henry Franklin Barham, 76, died June 5, 2009, at the Mississippi State Veterans Home in Kosciusko. Services are Monday at 2 p.m. at Calvert Funeral Home Chapel with Chris Craven officiating. Burial will follow at Sailors Cemetery near Vernon, Ala. Visitation is Monday from noon until service time at the funeral home. Mr. Barham was born Oct. 11, 1932, in Lowndes County to the late Ruby Adair Barham and Robert Doyle Barham. He graduated with honors from Mississippi State University and he was a veteran of the U.S Army serving during the Korean War. He was a supervisor of data processing for Amback in Columbus for a number of years. He was a member of Old Aberdeen Road Church of Christ. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Charlie Wayne Barham. He is survived by his daughters, Debra Baird and Gail Ray, both of West Point, and Nita Woodson of Vickburg; son, Bruce Barham of Waco, Texas; sister, Frances Taylor of Crawford; brothers, Eldon Barham of Caledonia, and Paul Barham of West Point; eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be his grandsons.
Lucile Young Barnes
SULLIGENT, Ala. - Lucile Young Barnes, 84, died June 5, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Hamilton. Services are today at 2 p.m. at Otts Funeral Home Chapel with Tim Harris officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery. Ms. Barnes was born March 28, 1925, to the late George W. and Viola Cantrell Young. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, J.B. Barnes; son, Billy Young; sister, Annie Haney; and a great-granddaughter. She is survived by her sons, Edward Barnes of Gattman, and George Barnes of Jasper, Ala.; brother, G.W. Young Jr. of Andrews, Texas; sisters, Ruthie Mae Green of Sulligent, and Madglean Vinson of Vernon, Ala.; eight grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Pallbearers will be Wayne and Michael Woolbright, Jason Barnes, Johnny Vaughan, Anthony and DeWayne Harris.
Barbara Wigginton Branham
AMORY - Barbara Wigginton Branham, 74, died June 5, 2009, at Gilmore Memorial Regional Medical Center. Services are today at 2 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with the Arlis Lee, Tommy Whaley and Benny Loveless officiating. Burial will follow at Haughton Memorial Park. Visitation will be today until service time at the funeral home. Mrs. Branham was born Feb. 27, 1935, in Monroe County to late Edward and Cleo Dill Wigginton. She worked for Glenn Manufacturing and Amory Garment Co. before retiring. She was a member of Gregory Chapel Baptist Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Hubert Branham; sister, Sue Wigginton Hathcock; and an infant brother. She is survived by her sons, Charley Branham of Amory and Robert Culpepper of Okolona; daughters, Jenny Tacker of Smithville and Felecia Higgins of Amory; brothers, Hubert and James Wigginton, both of Smithville; sisters, Marie Sanderson and Fay Pearson, both of Amory, and Mildredge Kendrick of Smithville; eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Andy Farrar, Jim and James Ray Taylor, John Mills, Kenny Gilmore and Jerry Simmons.
Ruby F. Bruton
WAHALAK - Ruby F. Bruton, 83, died June 4, 2009, at Bedford Care Center-Petal. Graveside services are today at 4 p.m. at Rush Cemetery in Kemper County with Jack Sellers and Gerald Bulter officiating. Visitation is today from 1-3 p.m. at Cockrell Funeral Home Inc. of Macon. Mrs. Bruton was born Sept. 13, 1925, in Meridian to the late Chamer Sylvester and Alice Elizabeth Gray Brown. She was raised in Shuqualak, lived in Wahalak until 1989, and moved to Hattiesburg. She retired from United Technologies where she was a factory worker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Zack Bruton; and daughter, Nancy Bowyer. She is survived by her son, Charles Bruton; four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Marguerite Dickert Creekmore
Marguerite Dickert Creekmore, age 93, formerly of Columbus, died Wednesday, June 3, 2009 from a massive heart attack at Capital Region Medical Center in Jefferson City, MO. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will be held at Memorial Funeral Home on Sunday, June 7, 2009 from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM. Graveside services will follow at 3:00PM at Memorial Gardens Cemetery on Sunday, June 7, 2009 with Rev. Jerry Zgarba, officiating. The daughter of the late James W. and Mattie Glenn Dailey Creekmore, Mrs. Creekmore was born January 3, 1916 in Echola, Al. She was married in West Point in 1943 to John H. Creekmore, who died in June, 1965. She was a former member of Immanuel Baptist Church and worked at The Bake Shop after her husband's death. She also served as a hostess/ greeter during visitations at Memorial Funeral Home. She had been a resident of Jefferson City, Mo since May, 1987, where she was a member of Concord Baptist Church. She loved to sew and garden. In addition to her parents and her husband, John H. Creekmore, she was also preceded in death by her sister Nell Stark. She is survived by her son Douglas Hicks of Tampa, Fl, daughters Virginia Mapp (James) of Brooksville, Ms and Susan May of Jefferson City, Mo. and her sister Eloise Dickert of Springfield, Mo. She is also survived by her grandchildren Melanie Hines (Walter), Jim Mapp, John Mapp (Leslie), Kevin Hicks, and Pamela Lantry (Sean), seven great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. The pallbearers will be Walter Hines, Jim Mapp, James Mapp and John Mapp.
Richard Keith Leonard
MILLPORT, Ala. - Richard Keith Leonard, 49, died June 3, 2009, in Lamar County, Ala. Services are today at 2 p.m. at Dowdle Funeral Home Chapel in Millport with the Rev. Tony Leonard officiating. Burial will follow at Higdon Cemetery in Kennedy. Mr. Leonard was born Oct. 19, 1959, in Dearborn, Mich., to Vance A. Leonard and the late Vera Clearman Leonard. In addition to his father, he is survived by his wife, Renee Leonard; daughters, Michelle and Kristin Leonard; sons, Micheal and James Leonard; sister, Anita Leonard; brothers, James and Tony Leonard; and three grandchildren.
Roy J. McAllister III
Roy J. McAllister III, 64, died June 6, 2009, in Columbus. Services are Monday at 11:30 a.m. at Robert Barham Family Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Raymon Leake and Ray Williams officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery. Visitation is Monday from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Mr. McAllister was a native of Meridian. He graduated from Meridian High School and Mississippi State University with a degree in industrial engineering. He retired from United Technologies, where he was an industrial engineer. He was a member of the Alabama Air National Guard and Fairview Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his father, Roy J. McAllister Jr. He is survived by his mother, Dorothy T. McAllister of Meridian; wife, Carolyn McAllister of Columbus; brother, Jim McAllister of Meridian; children, Carla Barr of Calera, Ala., and Roy J. McAllister IV of Atlanta; and two grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Jack Jackson, Mike Covert, Tommy, Rudolph and Doug Spears, Bobby Cooper, Wilbert Easom and J.D. Neal.
Willie Stafford Noland
CARROLLTON, Ala. - Willie Stafford Noland, 79, died June 5, 2009, at Aliceville Manor Nursing Home. Graveside services are Monday at 11 a.m. at Union Chapel Cemetery in Aliceville, Ala., with the Revs. Jay and Chris Noland officiating. Visitation is Monday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Dogwood Chapel in Aliceville. Skelton Funeral of Reform, Ala., is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Noland was born May 7, 1930, in Pickens County, Ala., to the late James Samuel Noland and Etta Rae Windle Noland. He was a U.S. Army veteran and a retired machinist for Toroid in Huntsville. He was a member of Carrollton United Methodist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his infant son, James Randy Noland; four brothers and one sister. He is survived by his wife, Frances Luker Noland of Carrollton; sons, the Rev. Jay Noland of Woodlawn, Va., and Bobby Stafford Noland of Aliceville; sister, Laura Woodard of Birmingham, Ala.; brother, Gerald Noland of Caledonia; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Ellon Tate Scarbrough
Ellon Tate Scarbrough, age 89, of Las Vegas, NV, formerly of Columbus, MS, passed to heaven May 18, 2009 at Harbor House Hospice in Las Vegas, NV. Graveside services will be Thursday, June 11, 2009 at 11:00 AM at Oak Hill Cemetery in Water Valley, MS with Rev. Ken Izzard officiating and Gunter & Peel Funeral Home directing. She was born in 1920 and had lived in Columbus, MS since 1940. She moved to Las Vegas in 2005 to live with her son, Walt Scarbrough. She was preceded in death by her husband, Aubrey Scarbrough. Together they ran Tate's Taven during the 1940's and 50's and then owned and operated Aubrey's and Ellon's at the same location on Hwy 82 East into the early 1970's. Ellon then began a new career at the Golden Triangle Regional Medical Center as a dietary manager, retiring after 25 years of service. Ellon was a 64 year member of the First Baptist Church in Columbus and was a member of the ladies Sunday School Class. Mrs. Scarbrough is survivied by her 2 children, Jo Scarbrough Padgett and husband, Pete Padgett of Port St. Lucie, FL and Walt Scarbrough of Las Vegas, NV, 2 grandchildren, Ellon Padgett Allen and husband, Richard Todd Allen of Jensen Beach, FL and Andrew and Yvonne Scarbrough West of Sacramento, CA. She was the proud great grandmother of 4, Karley and Petey Allen of Jensen Beach, FL and Kylie and A. J. Scarbrough of West Sacramento, CA. She will be missed by all of us.
Alma Grace Todd Wiygul
STARKVILLE - Alma Grace Todd Wiygul, 92, died June 4, 2009, at her residence. Services were Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at Meadowview Baptist Church in Starkville with Jason Middletown and Jason Green officiating. Graveside services followed at 4 p.m. at Wiygul Cemetery in Itawamba County. E.E. Pickle Funeral Home of Amory were in charge of arrangements. Ms. Wiygul was born April 5, 1917, in Itawamba County to the late Emmett Rufus and Vallie Leigh Hester Todd. She was a charter member of Meadowview Baptist Church where she taught Sunday school. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, V.O. Wiygul; brothers, Rufus and Baudie Todd; and sister, Marie Watson. She is survived by her daughters, Brenda Montgomery-Chambliss and Ginger Williams Carver, both of Starkville; three grandchildren, four stepgrandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and three step-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Jason and Jeff Williams, John Montgomery and Ben, Jessie and Aaron Carver.
Albert Dismukes
BROOKSVILLE - Albert Dismukes, 81, died May 28, 2009, at his residence. Services are Saturday at 1 p.m. at Mt. Carmel MB Church in Noxubee County with the Rev. Jack Vaughn officiating. Burial will follow at Friendship Cemetery. Williams-Herring and Hampton Funeral Home in Louisville is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Dismukes was born Oct. 30, 1927, in Noxubee County. He was retired and was a member of Mt. Carmel MB Church. He is survived by his wife, Catherine Johnson Dismukes of Brooksville.
Charlie Dell Douglas
STARKVILLE - Charlie Dell Douglas, 56, died May 30, 2009, at his residence. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Peter's Rock Temple Church of God in Christ with the Rev. Lee Brand Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at Chickee Hill Cemetery. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville. Mr. Douglas was born in Sunflower County. He was employed with the Starkville and Oktibbeha County School districts. He was a Baptist. He is survived by his daughters, Nissa Douglas, Sharon Douglas Clay, Shonda Douglas Johnson, Courtney Warren, and Anita, Charlette, DeQuila and Angela Lindsey, all of Starkville; son, Charlie Dell Douglas Jr. of Starkville; brothers, Arthur Douglas Jr. of Starkville and Ben O'Bryant of Jackson; 21 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Mildred W. Easley
Mildred W. Easley, 83, died May 30, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Saturday at 10 a.m. at Missionary Union Baptist Church with the Rev. Tony Montgomery officiating. Burial will follow at B.B. Chapel Cemetery in Pickensville, Ala. Visitation is today from noon-6 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Mrs. Easley was born June 29, 1925, in Carrollton, Ala., to the late Walter W. and Mattie Sherrod Washington. She retired from working as a beautician. She was a member of Missionary Union Baptist Church, where she served as a missionary, on the culinary committee and in the choir. She was a former member of the Beautician Club. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Curley B. Easley; daughter, Beverly P. Stewart; and siblings, Bertha Richey, Mamie Holley, Mattie Casserberry, Ora Casselberry and Louisa and Wilda Washington. She is survived by her sisters, Sadie Thorton and Eredeal Washington, both of Columbus; and three grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Charles D. and Terry E. Williams, Vincent D. Thorton, Timothy Robinson, Andrew Craddieth and John Harris.
Leasa Ann Fields
Leasa Ann Fields, 44, died May 30, 2009, at UAB Hospital-Birmingham,Ala. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at New Baptist Temple MB Church with the Rev. L.A. Gardner officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 3-8 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Ms. Fields was born April 28, 1965, in Lowndes County. She worked for Microtek for over 25 years, and she was a member of New Baptist Temple MB Church. She is survived by her parents, Robert Earl Moore and Queen Esther Moore, both of Columbus; stepmother, Catherine Diane Moore of Columbus; children, Lasundra Fields, Roquez Lowe, and Ora and Melvin Brownlee, all of Columbus; siblings, Robert L. Moore of Columbus, Marcus Moore of Gulfport, Latoya Bogan of Tupelo, Monique Kelly of Columbus and Robert E. Moore Jr. of Columbus; and one grandchild. Pallbearers will be Robert, Eddie and Tony Chandler, Tommy Davis, Robert Smith, Kendrick Moore and Harold Malone Jr.
Willie B. "Neil" Hill
Willie B. "Neil" Hill, 52, died May 27, 2009, at his residence in Columbus. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Stephen Chapel MB Church with the Rev. Joe L. Peoples officiating. Burial will follow at Sandfield Cemetery. Visitation is today from noon-6 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Mr. Hill was born Jan. 1, 1957, in Noxubee County to the late Bennie W. Hill Sr. and Mable Joiner Hill. He was formerly a laborer at Johnston Tombigbee Furniture. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepbrother, John Jefferson; and one granddaughter. He is survived by his wife, Josie Mae Hill of Columbus; stepmother, Gussie Jefferson Hill of Columbus; daughter, Melissa Harris of Columbus; a son from Massachusetts; sisters, Mary Wells, Lourine Brewer, Callie Cowans and Georgia Sherrod, all of Columbus, Betty Hill of Boston and Annette Bland of Chicago; brothers, Dennis C., Bennie, Willie, Sammie L. and Henry Hill, all of Columbus; stepsisters, Ruth Richey, Vera Parker and Ola Mae Jefferson, all of Columbus, and Gloria Billups of Tacoma and Seattle, Wash.; stepbrothers, Pastor Glenn Jefferson Sr. and Gerry Jefferson, both of Columbus; and two grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Nate Weatherspoon, Cornell Gandy, Raymond Scott, Alfonso Smith, Harry Henry, Willie Foote and Mike Jones.
Hazel Cousins Smith
PHEBA - Hazel Cousins Smith, 74, died May 31, 2009, in Beaumont, Texas. Services are Sunday at 3 p.m. at U.F.C.W. Local No. 1991 Bryan Union Hall in West Point with the Rev. Sammie Beckum officiating. Burial will follow at Lower Prairie Creek Cemetery in Mantee. Visitation is Saturday from 3-6 p.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services in West Point. Mrs. Smith was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmie Lee Smith; parents, Juette and Janie Cousins; son, John Buster Smith; brothers, James Eddie, Elkin, Ellie Hugh, Matthew, Rufus and Wilson Cousins; and sisters, Desser Mae Belk and Mable Townsend. She is survived by her sons, Cedrick and Gregory Smith; daughter, Yvonne Bazunu; sisters, Mary Helen Kilgore, Ludie Garner, Grace Murph, Inez Wilson and Gertrude Cousins; and nine grandchildren.
Winnie S. Spain
CARROLLTON, Ala. - Winnie S. Spain, 74, died June 3, 2009, at Druid City Hospital in Tuscaloosa, Ala. Services are today at 1 p.m. at Skelton Funeral Home Chapel in Reform, Ala., with the Rev. Edward Spain officiating. Burial will follow at Pilgrim Rest Cemetery. Mrs. Spain was born June 3, 1935, in Pickens County, Ala., to the late Oscar Scarbrough Sr. and Bessie Marquis Scarbrough. She attended Oasis Fellowship Church in Tuscaloosa, was the retired owner and operator of Carrollton BP Service Station for 26 years and a lifelong resident of Pickens County. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert Spain; sister, Brenda Willey; and brother, Oscar Scarbrough Jr. She is survived by her daughters, Sarah Noland of Carrollton, Ala., Christie McCullough of Millport, Ala., and Betsy Humphreys of Fosters, Ala.; brother, Thomas Scarbrough of Gordo, Ala.; and four grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Charles and Chuck McDaniel, Tim Strickland, Ronnie Summerville, Virgil Spain and Ronnie Hatfield.
Wardell "Jimmy" Amos
WEST POINT - Wardell "Jimmy" Amos, 71, died May 31, 2009, at Druid City Hospital-Tuscaloosa, Ala. Services are Friday at 1 p.m. at Oak Grove MB Church in Columbus with the Rev. Thurman Cunningham officiating. Burial will follow at Tibbee Community Cemetery. Visitation is today from 3-8 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Mr. Amos was born Nov. 13, 1937, in Tibbee to the late Adam and Lucinda Watson Amos. He was a member of Oak Grove MB Church, CFU and Tibbee Development Club. He was employed at Mississippi Skill Craft. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Caroline Amos Addison, Rosie Cannon Amos, James Adams Amos Jr., Luther G. Amos, John Ed Amos and Mildred Cole Amos. He is survived by his brother, Joe B. Amos of West Point; and sisters, Earnestine Wicks of West Point and Pryscilla Net Moore of Chicago. Pallbearers will be Corki and Robert Wicks, Robert Moore, and James R., Larry B. and Joel Keith Amos.
James R. "Jim" Davis
SULLIGENT, Ala. - James R. "Jim" Davis, 71, died June 1, 2009, at Care Center of Vernon, Ala. Services were today at 2 p.m. at Free Will Chapel Free Will Baptist Church with Bro. Keith Rhudy and Bro. Jerry White officiating. Burial followed at Gilmer Addition of Sulligent City Cemetery. Otts Funeral Home in Sulligent was in charge of arrangements. Mr. Davis was born Nov. 28, 1937, to the late James Fred and Clemmie McKay Davis. He was a 1957 graduate of Sulligent High School and a member of Free Will Chapel Free Will Baptist Church of Sulligent. He was a truck driver for Glenn Manufacturing and Southern Transportation and was retired from Ceco Engineering Co. of Columbus after 33 years of service. After retirement, he worked as a school bus driver for six years for the Lamar County Board of Education. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Davis of Sulligent; daughters, Pebbles Pinkerton of Vernon, Ala., and Ginger Tooke of Bristow, Va.; sister, Patricia Roberts of Sulligent; and four grandchildren. Pallbearers were Junior Frye, Leon Sizemore, James Earl Hall, Donald Gentry, Greg Stanford and Clark Northington.
Jacquelyn Rene "Jacky" Love
MARTINSVILLE, Ohio - Jacquelyn Rene "Jacky" Love, 37, died May 31, 2009, in Martinsville. Private memorial services are Friday by invitation only. Fisher-Edgington Funeral Home in Wilmington, Ohio, is in charge of arrangements. Ms. Love was born Dec. 17, 1971, in Williams, Ariz. She had worked at DHL. She is survived by her parents, Rick and Aveth Love of Columbus, and Sharon L. Love of Hillsboro; son, Joseph Lee Mueller of Martinsville, Ohio; and brothers, Joshua R. Love of Wilmington and Jason R. Love of Henderson, Nev.
Faye Russell
VERNON, Ala. - Faye Russell, 77, died June 2, 2009, at Care Center of Vernon. Services are today at 2 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home in Vernon with Wade Peoples, Jerry Robinson and Joe Beckon officiating. Burial will follow at Christian Chapel Cemetery in Vernon. Ms. Russell was born Jan. 12, 1932, in Lamar County, Ala. She was a homemaker. She is survived by her sons, Terry and Greg Russell, both of Vernon; brothers, Warren, Bud and Bill Jordan, all of Vernon; sisters, Shirley Orr, Pauline Walters and Betty Carr, all of Vernon; seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Tony Carr, Tommy and Michael Orr, Jeff and Kenny Jordan and Don Black.
Terry "Meatman" Smith
MACON - Terry "Meatman" Smith, 46, died May 30, 2009, at his residence. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Sylvian Ridge MB Church in Macon with the Rev. Ronald Wilson officiating. Visitation is Friday from 1-5 p.m. at Jones Memorial Funeral Home in Macon, and the body will be at the church one hour prior to services on Saturday. Mr. Smith was preceded in death by his father, Howard Lewis Smith; and brother, Eddie George Smith. He is survived by his mother, Frances Lee Smith of Macon; son, Micheal Robinson of Macon; brothers, Sylvester and Tommy Edward Smith, both of Macon, James Howard Smith of Los Angeles and Harold Bankhead of Crawford; and sisters, Alberta Smith Joiner, Bernice Jackson and Hattie Neal, all of Macon.
Virgil R. Baker
West Point, Mississippi - Virgil R. Baker, 78, died, Tuesday, June 2, 2009, at his home in West Point. Funeral services will be Friday, June 5, 2009, at 10:00 a.m. from Calvary Baptist Church in West Point with Dr. James Towery officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Garden Cemetery in West Point. Visitation will be Thursday 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Calvert Funeral Home of West Point, which is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Baker was born August 1, 1930, in Baltimore, Ohio, to the late Dora May Morton Baker and Reverend Emmit Vernon Baker. He had worked in Insurance and Real Estate Sales, also as a telephone lineman, then later in carpentery as a home builder working in various aspects of home remodeling. He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and he loved the Lord. He was a United States Army Veteran, having served during the early 1950's. He married Doris May Tucker Baker on December 30, 1950, in Junction City, Ohio. Survivors include his Wife, Doris M. Baker of West Point; two daughters, Debbie St. Louis (Mike) of West Point and Pam O'Connor (Perry) of Sarasota, FL.; four grandchildren, Lynn St. Louis, Amy Dammen (Derrek), Jennifer Hughes, and Jessica O'Connor and five great grandchildren, Madalynn Hughes, Emilee Elkins, Aiden Elkins, Nickolas Dammen and Landon Dammen; two brothers, Willard Baker (Betty) of Raliegh, NC, and Mike Baker (Kay) of Logan, Ohio. Granddaugher, Julianna Marie Hughes and sister Eileen Van Fossen also predeceased him. Pallbearers will be Byron Acker, Clark Baker, Mike Pearson, Henry Myers, Todd Glusenkamp, and Frank Hodges.
Clark Cliett
West Point, Mississippi - Clark Cliett, age 74, died, Tuesday, June 2, 2009, North MS Medical Center, Tupelo. Memorial graveside funeral services will be Saturday, June 6, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. with the Reverend Dale Funderburg officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Garden Cemetery West Point, MS. Visitation will be from 9:45 a.m. until service time at the graveside. Calvert Funeral Home of West Point is in charge of arrangements. Murray Clark Cliett was born April 4, 1935 in Montpelier, Mississippi to the late Ruth Evelyn Clark and Murray Malloy Cliett. Mr. Cliett was a former owner of Cliett Auto Parts until the early 1970's and was a Baptist. Survivors include four daughters, Debi Cliett Keel of Montgomery, TX, Reida Cliett Anderson of Hilton Head Island, SC, Lauri Cliett Smith of Williamsburg, VA, Wendi Cliett May of Marietta, GA; two sons, Murray Clark Cliett of West Point, Charles Grady Cliett of Canton; 13 grandchildren; two great grandchildren.
L.C. Lenoir
ABERDEEN - L.C. Lenoir, 68, died May 30, 2009, at Pioneer Community Hospital-Aberdeen. Services are Friday at 1 p.m. at Greater Ebenezer MB Church. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is Thursday from 5-7 p.m. at Belle Memorial Funeral Home in Aberdeen. Mr. Lenoir was preceded in death by his brothers, Willie, Alex Jr. and Roosevelt Lenoir; and sisters, Mary Evans, Louise Dixon, Fannie L. Lenoir and Mary Love. He is survived by his wife, Lartha R. Lenoir; sons, Henry and Charlie McMillian, both of Minneapolis, Johnnie McMillian, Robert J. Trimble of Grand Rapids, Mich., Anthony Williams of Hamilton, and Willie, Chris and Barry McMillian; daughters, Betty Jean Edwards of Kalamazoo, Mich., Zella Mae Walker, Annese Saddler of Hamilton, and Lyn Fair, Bobbie Jean Davis, Janel Davidson and Carrie McMillian; sisters, Annie Sue Hill, Annie Mae Doss and Frances Jones; 33 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Carol Jean "Jeanie" Gordon Mitchell
ABERDEEN - Carol Jean "Jeanie" Gordon Mitchell, 68, died June 1, 2009, at her residence. Services are Thursday at 11 a.m. at Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Aberdeen with Bro. Roy McKay and Bro. Roy McHenry officiating. Burial will follow at Oddfellows Rest Cemetery. Visitation is today from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Mitchell was born July 26, 1940, in Okolona to the late Carl Jack Gordon and Emma Louise Gordon. She was a graduate of Okolona High School. She grew up in Okolona and lived the past 50 years in Aberdeen, where she was a member of First Baptist Church of Aberdeen. She retired from National Bank of Commerce after 35 years of service. She is survived by her husband, Charlie Ben Mitchell of Aberdeen; daughters, Lesa Mitchell Young of Aberdeen and Kay Mitchell Rea of Dallas; son, Charlie Ben Mitchell Jr. of Brentwood, Tenn.; brothers, Ted Gordon of Tupelo and Jack Gordon of Okolona; and nine grandchildren. Pallbearers will be John, William and Ben Chase Callon, Blake and Mason Mitchell, Jason Cantrell, Donald Bunch, and Mitchell and David Rea.
Betty Dulaney
SPRING HILL - Betty Dulaney, 79, died May 31, 2009, at Grenada Lake Medical Center-Grenada. Services are Wednesday at 10 a.m. at Wise Funeral Home in Eupora with the Rev. Al Mullins officiating. Burial will follow at Embry Cemetery. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Dulaney was born Sept. 3, 1929. She was a retired certification clerk and a member of Pilgrim's Rest Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Oscar Dulaney; and son, Thomas Dulaney. She is survived by her daughter, Rachel Perry of Grenada; sisters, Joan Denly of Eupora and Catherine Cole of Spring Hill; brother, Jack Hendrick of Walthall; and one grandchild.
Mary Evelyn Cooper Kelley
REFORM, Ala. - Mary Evelyn Cooper Kelley, 87, died May 31, 2009, at her daughter's residence in Moss Point. Services are Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Skelton Funeral Home Chapel in Reform with the Revs. George Shaw and Ray Aldridge officiating. Burial will follow at Greenhill Memorial Gardens. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. and Wednesday for one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Mrs. Kelley was born March 30, 1922, in Lamar County, Ala., to the late Robert and Louella Fields Cooper. She worked for many years at Wolverine Cap Factory and Reala Factory in Reform. She was a member of Mt. Tabor Baptist Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charles E. Kelley; sister, Ava Lou Cooper Kelley; and brothers, Redus, Harwood and Heddie Cooper. She is survived by her daughters, Charlene Kelley Minor of Pascagoula and Diane Kelley Gibson of Ethelsville, Ala.; sons, Edsel Dewayne Kelley of Palmetto, Ala.; brother, Leon Cooper; eight grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Darren Kelley, Eric Minor, Austin Killingsworth, Zach Adams, Greg Minor, Mickey Gurley, Alan Gibson and Jerry Banks.
William Cyrus “Billy” Thompson
“Mr. Billy” as he was fondly called, was born in Caledonia. He was the son of the late Cyrus & Bessie Vaughn Thompson. He was introduced to a kinder way of life of horses, buggies, chores and fun on a farm. Moving to Columbus at an early age, his love for horses and people never faded. He served as a paper boy for the Saturday Evening Post in his younger days, using a dog and goat to pull his “Paper Wagon.” As he expanded his route, this job enabled him to meet new people, which he loved to do.
Billy married his love, Lucy Wasson Thompson, on Nov. 24, 1937, starting a long life of almost 60 years together. She passed away a week before their 60th wedding anniversary. During those years together, their family grew with 6 children to love and care for.
Joys and sorrows fell on them as they were preceded in death by two grown children: son, William Cyrus Thompson, Jr.; daughter, Lucy Katherine Griffin; two grandsons, William Cyrus Thompson, III & Tony W. Thompson; and a great grandson, Collin Dempsie Smith.
He leaves to cherish his memory a brother, Joseph R. Thompson (Jo); children, Joseph W. Thompson (Toni), John L. Thompson (Cindy) and Willie T. Bell (Bill) of Columbus & Martha A. Brisbine (Floyd) of Pontotoc; grandchildren, John Wasson Thompson (Kati), Cappe T. Hallberg (Eric) of Starkville, Joseph W. Thompson, Jr. (Camille) of Columbus, Jean T. Fiske (Bob) of Germany, David Brisbane (Linda) of Pontotoc, Jason Griffin (Debbie) of Virginia, Deborah B. Smith (Glenn) of Daphne, AL, Brenda B. Achter (Erik) of Columbus, William H. Bell, III (Lori) of Michigan & Rudy Solano of Costa Rica; 11 great grandchildren; along with many dear relatives & friends.
He was a graduate of MSU, where he majored in animal husbandry, and was a member of First United Methodist Church and the Baraca Sunday School Class. Mr. Billy’s life was centered around having families know each other, friends around all the time, and horses to ride and share. His love for people and horses was demonstrated every year as he celebrated his birthday with friends and family in his front yard with food and buggy rides.
In celebration of his life, we invite his friends and relatives to come and pay their late respects and say goodbye in his front yard this Thursday, June 4, 2009 from 10am-1pm with services following. He loved so many and we want you to celebrate his life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial may be sent to the Rides Program, a therapy program with horses for people with disabilities. Rides, 540 Gurlie Malone Rd., Caledonia, MS 39740.
Willie "Pete" Gleason Elinburg, Sr.
BELK, Ala. - Willie "Pete" Gleason Elinburg, Sr., 65, died May 31, 2009, at his residence. Services are Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Dowdle Funeral Home in Millport, Ala., with Bro. L.D. Armstrong and Bro. Terry Robinson officiating. Burial will follow at Higdon Cemetery in Kennedy, Ala. Visitation is today from 6-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Elinburg was born Aug. 17, 1943, in Union to the late Tom and Pauline Ivey Elinburg. He worked as a farmer. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Wayne Elinburg; and sister, Naomi Elinburg. He is survived by his wife, Patsy Elinburg of Belk; daughters, Donna Stripling and Marilyn Huguley, both of Kennedy, and Stephanie Fields of Tuscaloosa, Ala.; sons, Willie Elinburg Jr. of Berry, Ala., Rex Elinburg of Belk and Rayford Elinburg of Fayette, Ala.; brothers, Joe, John, Mike and Tony Elinburg; sister, Wilma Kirk; 12 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Robert Acker, Jon and Mark Elinburg, Willie Wilkinson, and Kenny A. and Greg Stripling.
Eula Mae Hays
EUPORA - Eula Mae Hays, 58, died May 30, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Services are Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Wise Funeral Home in Eupora with the Rev. Sam Edwards officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Zion Cemetery. Visitation is Tuesday from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Hays was born Nov. 7, 1950. She was a homemaker and a member of West Eupora Church of God. She was preceded in death by her son, Robert Hays. She is survived by her husband, Billy Hays of Eupora; daughter, Sandy Rigby of Starkville; sister, Jessie Straus of Memphis, Tenn.; and one grandchild.
Audie Posey Whitley
REFORM, Ala. - Audie Posey Whitley, 90, died May 30, 2009, at her residence. Services are Wednesday at 10 a.m. at Skelton Funeral Home Chapel in Reform with the Revs. Larry Shelton and Dan Finney officiating. Burial will follow at Center Springs Cemetery in Gordo, Ala. Visitation is Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Whitley was born April 4, 1919, in Fayette County, Ala., to the late Rufus and Ellie Mae Corr Posey. She was a homemaker, a member of Arbor Springs Baptist Church and attended Disciples New Beginning. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Tom Whitley; daughter, Lillie Whitley; one sister and four brothers. She is survived by her daughters, Nona Faye Wood and Billie Wheat, both of Wetumpka, Ala., Barbara Bibee of Reform, Ala., and Betty Wagner of Warrington, Pa.; son, George Robert Whitely of Reform, Ala.; sister, Gertrude Sutton of Gordo; brothers, Robert and James Posey, both of Gordo; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Danny, Jonathan and Mark Posey, Chuck McDonough, Shawn Stone and Ethan Simpson.
Julia Ray Dabbs Bowen
SMITHVILLE - Julia Ray Dabbs Bowen, 90, died May 29, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo. Services are today at 3:30 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Smithville with Lloyd Minor officiating. Burial will follow at Young Memorial Gardens. Visitation is today from noon until service time at the funeral home. Mrs. Bowen was born Aug. 11, 1918, in Hatley to the late Lemuel and Mary Fuqua Dabbs. She lived in Detroit for 17 years before returning to the Hatley/Smithville area. She was a homemaker and a member of Smithville Baptist Church and worked in the Smithville School cafeteria for many years. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ruble Bowen; daughter, Peggy Moore; sisters, Minnie Lee Jones, Winona Hill, Emma Palmer, Annabell Evans, and Loucille Welch; brothers, Austin, Houston, Burley and Moses Dabbs; one grandson and one great-grandson. She is survived by her sons, Hoyt Bowen, of Scottsboro, Ala., and Norman Bowen, of Tupelo; sister, Celia Fay Jackson, of Smithville; six grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Van Dabbs, F.B. Boozer, Lamar Minor, Jerry Lee Frederick, Joe Hal Morgan and Loyd Pearson.
Rose Marie Hudson
ALICEVILLE, Ala. - Rose Marie Hudson, 51, died May 30, 2009, at Aliceville Manor Nursing Home. Memorial services are Monday at 11 a.m. at Garden Baptist Church with the Rev. David Barrentine officiating. Skelton Funeral Home of Reform, Ala., is in charge of arrangements. Ms. Hudson was born June 16, 1957, in Picayune to the late Milton Mitchell Stewart and Dorothy Lampkin Stewart. She was a homemaker and a Baptist. She is survived by her son, Jason Miles Stewart, of Tuscaloosa, Ala.; brother, Robert M. Stewart, of Carrollton, Ala.; and two grandchildren.
John Wayne Huffman
WREN - John Wayne Huffman, 69, died May 28, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center. Services were Saturday at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Tommy Lawson and Jamie Stark officiating. Burial followed at Coontail Cemetery. Mr. Huffman was born Nov. 25, 1939, in Chickasaw County to the late James Andrew and Madia Elizabeth Pilgreen Huffman. He had worked in the garment industry at Indian Creek Apparel and for Refreshments Inc. He was a member of Wren Church of Christ. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Clark Huffman, of Wren; sons, Mike Huffman, of Hatley, and Richard Huffman, of Becker; brother, James David Huffman, of Wren; and four grandchildren. Pallbearers were Kyle, Jordan and Marty Huffman, Bobby Clark, Tommy Gann and Sydney Oakley.
Clayton Evans Jones, Sr.
ABERDEEN - Clayton Evans Jones, Sr., 82, died May 29, 2009, at his residence. Services are Monday at 11 a.m. at Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Tom Sheffield and Robert Moore officiating. Burial with military rites will follow at Sartor Cemetery. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Jones was born July 1, 1926, in Monroe County to the late Harold Evans Jones and Mattie Sue Hollingsworth Jones. He was a lifelong resident of Monroe County and graduated from Greenwood Springs School. He was a U.S. Navy veteran. He was a self-employed truck driver and sold produce and had worked for the Monroe County Sheriff's Department and Monroe County in road maintenance. He was a member of New Hope Methodist Church and the American Legion for 62 years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Jane Atkins Jones, and an infant son. He is survived by his son, Clayton Evans Jones Jr., of Hamilton; sisters, Helen Atkins, of Amory, and Eugenia Talbot, of Greenwood Springs; and two grandchildren. Pallbearers will be William Dean and Sammy Atkins, Jerry Talbot, James Tabor Reed, Donald Dahlem, Bobby Westbrook, Aaron Welch and Jerry Smith.
James F. Leverett
SMITHVILLE - James F. Leverett, 72, died May 27, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo. Services are Monday at 11 a.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with James Gillentine officiating. A graveside service with Masonic rites will be held Thursday at 11 a.m. at Lann Cemetery. Visitation is today from 5-9 p.m. and will continue until Monday's service time at the funeral home. Mr. Leverett was born Dec. 15, 1936, in Birmingham, Ala., to the late Dewitt Talmadge and Myrtle Lou Kennedy Leverett. He lived in Huntsville, Ala., Orlando, Fla., Germany and Smithville. He retired from Lockhead Martin as an aerospace engineer. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran of the Korean War and a Scottish Rite Mason. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Polly Watson, Evelyn Murray and Catherine Leverett. He is survived by his sons, Joseph L. Leverett, of Orlando, Fla., and James F. Leverett Jr., of Smithville; mother of his children, Glenda L. Leverett, of Oneonta, Ala.; sister, Marilyn Phillips, of Chapel Hill, N.C.; and one grandchild.
Larry Moore
Larry Moore, 54, of Columbus, MS passed away Friday, May 29, 2009 at Aurora Australis Lodge Nursing Home, Columbus, MS. Visitation was held Saturday, May 30, 2009 from 6 to 8PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral services will be held Sunday, May 31, 2009 at 3 PM in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Bubba Dees. Interment will be in Living Faith Tabernacle Cemetery, Columbus, MS with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing. Mr. Moore was born December 21, 1954 in Dallas, TX to Al Moore and the late Margie Black Moore and was a resident of Columbus, MS for the past fifty years having moved from Dallas, TX. He was previously employed by Beloit Manhatten as a Vibration Analysis and was a member of New Hope Baptist Church, Columbus, MS where he served as youth director for 3 years. He loved to sing gospel music and play the guitar for the nursing home residence. Mr. Moore loved his family and especially his grandchildren and enjoyed working on cars. In addition to his father, Mr. Moore is survived by his wife, Diane Moore - Columbus, MS; sons - Chad Moore, Columbus, MS, and Lance Moore, Columbus, MS; step-children - Scott Files, Sturgis, MS, Richard Robinson, Columbus, MS and Sarah Davis, Sturgis, MS; sisters - Joyce Edwards - Columbus, MS, Debbie Harris - Columbus, MS; brothers - Jerry Marsh - Columbus, MS and Gary Moore - Columbus, MS; grandchildren - Hayden Moore, Landon Moore, Jackson Moore, stepgrandchildren - Jerry Brewinton, Andrew Files, Cheyenne Files, Dustin Files, Devin Files, Trenton Robinson, Breanna Robinson, Mason Godney, Shavanna Davis and Samatha Davis. Pallbearers will be David Edwards, Chris Marsh,Tylor Marsh, Shannon Harris, Lucas Harris and Dale Moore.
Mary C. Peek
Mary C. Peek, 90, died May 24, 2009, at Windsor Place of Columbus. Services are Monday at 11 a.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Jimmy L. Rice officiating. Burial will follow at Sandfield Cemetery. Visitation is Monday from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Peek was born Nov. 24, 1918, to the late Fryson and Mary Gandy Clemmons. She attended Wayne School of Nursing. She was a private duty nurse for several years and then worked at Columbus Hospital for 30 years. She was a member of Fourth Street M.B. Church and served on the Mother Board. She is survived by her stepson.
Charles Thomas Perkins
Graveside services for Charles Thomas Perkins were held Saturday, May 30, 2009 at 3:00 at Pine Grove Baptist Church Cemetery, with Reverend Ryan Culpepper officiating. Burial followed at Pine Grove Baptist Church Cemetery in Martin with Robert Barham Family Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. Mr. Perkins, 73, of Lauderdale, died Thursday, May 28, 2009 at State Veterans Home in Kosciusko, MS. He was born in Macon, MS on November 28, 1935. He was a member of Concord Baptist Church, Macon, served in the Army and was a Mason and Shriner. Survivors include his wife, Ouida Perkins of Lauderdale, son, Charles Perkins, Jr. of Brandon, step-son, Kevin Rainey and his wife Gift of Suqualena, MS, daughters, Leigh Williams of Tuscaloosa, AL, Patricia Perkins of Maben, Paula Perkins and husband Tim of Columbus, MS, Kay Ottinger and husband Rick of St. Louis, MO, brothers, Donny Perkins and his wife Linda of Carrollton, MS, Larry Perkins and his wife, Charlotte of Niceville, FL, sisters, Rubye Guest and her husband, Charlie, Lisa King and her husband, John of Brooksville, MS, Sandra Higginbotham and her husband, Elmer of Ellisville, MS, fifteen grandchildren and seven great -grandchildren, and special friends, Billy and Hellon Bell of Macon, MS. He was preceded in death by his step-son, Ken Rainey Jr. and his parents, Tom and Mary Kate Perkins. Pallbearers will be Daryl Guest, Scott Guest, John King, Heath King, Jimmy Coleman and Tommy Coleman, Clint Hamilton and Josh Hamilton. Visitation was held from 1-2:30 prior to the service at the funeral home.
Thomas Ray Pugh
HAMILTON - Thomas Ray Pugh, 60, died May 29, 2009, at Pioneer Community Hospital in Aberdeen. Services are today at 2 p.m. at Tisdale-Lann Memorial Chapel in Aberdeen with the Revs. Freddie Rasberry and Charles Caldwell officiating. Burial will follow at Center Hill Cemetery in Hamilton. Mr. Pugh was born Dec. 8, 1948, in Fayette, Ala., to the late Thomas David Pugh and Mary Helen Pugh. He was a lifelong resident of Monroe County and graduated from Hamilton School and High Forest Academy in Nashville, Tenn. He was an elder and clerk of session at Hamilton Presbyterian Church. He worked as a medical technologist and emergency medical technician in Eupora and Aberdeen and worked for Dr. Brown in Aberdeen. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Sharon Delane Marshall. He is survived by his wife, Judy Pugh, daughter, Nichole Pugh, son, Ian Pugh, and sister, Tammy Bowen, all of Hamilton. Pallbearers will be Hank Vaiden, Jeffery House, Marty Richardson, Jeremy West, Wesley Lawrence and Issac Smith.
Lonnie Byron Beene, Jr.
Lonnie Byron Beene, Jr., 83 of Columbus, MS passed away Thursday, May 28, 2009 at his residence. Visitation will be held Saturday, May 30, 2009 from 2 - 3 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, May 30, 2009 at 3 PM in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Albert Wilkerson officiating. Interment will be in Friendship Cemetery, Columbus, MS with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing. Mr. Beene was born July 15, 1925 in Itawamba County, MS to the late Lonnie Byron Beene, Sr. and Etoyle Farrar Beene. He was a resident of Columbus, MS for the past fifty years having moved from Booneville, MS. He retired from Greenline Equipment Company as a heavy equipment mechanic. Mr. Beene was a member of East End Baptist Church and Charles Shelton Men's Bible Sunday School Class. Mr. Beene is survived by his wife of fifty years, Marie Proctor Beene, Columbus, MS; daughters, Daphne Beene (Albert) Bordelon, Columbus, MS; Marsha Beene (Randy) Rhoades, Columbus, MS; son, Carl Fleming (Amy) Beene, Fayetteville, NC; brother, Jack (Vasti) Beene, Mt. Pleasant, TX; nine grandchildren, Tyler Beene, Cullen Beene, Molly Beene, Kathryn Owens, Martha Owens, Ashley Hawk, Wesley Bordelon, Hannah Rhoades, Rachel Rhoades, one great grandchild, James Hawk and his beloved dog, "Buster". Pallbearers will be Albert Bordelon, Randy Rhoades, Wesley Bordelon, Jim Hawk, Carey Dodson and Alan Gordman.
Charles Evans
KANKAKEE, Ill. - Charles Evans, 58, died May 21, 2009, in Kankakee. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at St. Matthews MB Church in Artesia with the Rev. Willie Logan officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville. Mr. Evans was born in Artesia. He was a Baptist and he was retired. He is survived by his wife, Anna Evans of Kankakee; sons, Charles Jr. and Eddie Evans, both of Rochester, N.Y., Corey Randle of St. Louis, Lashaun Montgomery of Indianapolis and Jermaine Hawkins of Kankakee; daughters, Sherron and Sharon Randle, both of St. Louis; brothers, Cleveland, T.J. and Kenny Lucious, and Dexter and Carl Bush, all of Artesia, Charles Evans Jr. of Columbus, Johnny J. Evans of Indianapolis, and Anthony Hairston and Kyle Daniels, both of Kankakee; sisters, Dorothy Bush and Vanessa Hill, both of Starkville, Sabrina Amlett of Binghamton, N.Y., and Joann McCottrell and Janice Woods, both of St. Louis; 24 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
Flora Gibson
Flora Gibson, 94, died May 22, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Shiloh Full Gospel MB Church with Bishop Freddie Edward Sr. officiating. Visitation is Saturday for two hours prior to services at the church. Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Columbus is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Gibson was born Aug. 5, 1914, in Columbus to the late Rev. Lee Edward and Louise Hatch. She lived in Newark, N.J., for several years. She moved back to Columbus in 1992 and was a member of Shiloh MB Church where she served on the Mother Board and Missionary Society. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Gibson; son, Tommy Lee Howard Sr.; and one granddaughter. She is survived by three grandsons and three granddaughters.
Joe W. Gilbreath
Joe W. Gilbreath, age 81, of Columbus, MS died May 27, 2009 at Baptist Memorial Hospital. Funeral services will be Saturday, May 30, 2009 at 2:00 PM at Gunter & Peel Chapel with Chaplain Jim Holloway officiating. Visitation will be Friday, May 29, 2009 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Gunter & Peel Funeral Home. Mr. Gilbreath was born November 10, 1927, in Chilton, TX to the late Harvey and Erma Nunnally Gilbreath. He was a veteran of WWII serving in the United States Army and was a member of the American Legion. Mr. Gilbreath was retired from the oil business after many years and was preceded in death by his first wife, Maudine Thomas Gilbreath; son, Jerry Gilbreath; great-granddaughter, Angel Darby; two brothers and four sisters. Mr. Gilbreath is survived by wife, Martha Ann Gilbreath of Columbus, MS; son, Dennis (Linda) Gilbreath of Seymour, TX; daughter, Peggy (Larry) Harper of Euless, TX; sister, Ruth (Doc) Chesser; grandchildren, Tommy Gilbreath, Timmy Gilbreath, Elaine Gilbreath, Mitzi Harper, Renee Knittle, Sonja Bracher and Robin Gilbreath; and ten great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be friends and family.
Willie Earl Gunn
Willie Earl Gunn, 75, died May 24, 2009, at Druid City Hospital-Tuscaloosa, Ala. Services are Saturday at 1 p.m. at Tenth Avenue Church of Christ in Columbus with Bro. Willie James Hampton officiating. Burial will follow at Corinth Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Corinth. Visitation is today from 3-8 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Mr. Gunn was born March 20, 1934, in Egypt, Miss., to the late Woodrow Gunn Sr. and Melvina Gillespie Gunn. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952-1956. He had worked various jobs including as a toll collector, a machinist and real estate salesman. He was retired from the U.S. Department of the Treasury. He was a former member of Matubby Church of Christ in Aberdeen where he served as a treasurer. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Gail Renee Jamison; and siblings, Helen Clopton, Larry Gunn and Loistine Barber. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Gunn of Columbus; children, Detra Gunn of Round Rock, Texas, Apryl Gunn of Sugarland, Texas, David Keith Gillespie of Vacaville, Calif., Anthony Wayne Gillespie of Richmond, Va., Mickey Jamerson of Richmond, Calif., and Lorraine Jamerson of Oakland, Calif.; siblings, Laban Gunn Sr. of Florida, Windell Gunn of Omaha, Neb., Woodrow Gunn Jr. of Okolona, Victoria James of Aberdeen, Albert Gunn of Aberdeen, and Leon Gunn of Okolona; and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Anthony Keith Gunn, Labon Gunn Jr., Lee Andrew Gunn, Kenny Ray Barker, Ceaser Sherrod and Victor Swanigan.
Bert A. Nagy
Bert A. Nagy, 88 of Columbus, MS passed away Wednesday, May 27, 2009 at Trinity Health Care, Columbus, MS. Visitation will be held Friday, May 29, 2009 from 7 to 9 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, May 30, 2009 at 11 AM in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Shawn Parker officiating; Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing. Mr. Nagy was born November 9, 1920 in Munhall, PA to the late Stephen B. and Julia T. Nagy and was a resident of Columbus, MS for the past twenty-two years having moved from San Pedro, CA. He retired as a self-employed sales representative after thirty years of service and was a veteran of the U.S. Army Air Corp. Mr. Nagy was a member of the Gideons, a Master Mason in the San Pedro Lodge, San Pedro, CA and loved fishing, playing golf and tinkering. He was a member of First Baptist Church, Columbus, MS. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers, Stephen Nagy and Louis Nagy. Mr. Nagy is survived by his wife, Marcella Nagy, Columbus, MS; daughter, Sandra (Larry) Clark, Columbus, MS; sons, Allan (Debbie) Nagy, Valdosta, GA; Stephen (Frawn) Nagy, Antioch, TN; six grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Mary C. Peek
Mary C. Peek, 90, died May 24, 2009, at Windsor Place of Columbus. Services are Monday at 11 a.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Jimmy L. Rice officiating. Burial will follow at Sandfield Cemetery. Visitation is Monday from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Peek was born Nov. 24, 1918, to the late Fryson and Mary Gandy Clemmons. She attended Wayne School of Nursing. She was a private duty nurse for several years and then worked at Columbus Hospital for 30 years. She was a member of Fourth Street M.B. Church and served on the Mother Board. She is survived by her stepson.
Calvin C. Phillips, Sr.
Calvin C. Phillips, Sr., 83, died May 20, 2009, at Oktibbeha County Hospital-Starkville. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at West Lowndes High School Gymnasium with the Rev. Lee Andrew Petty officiating. Burial will follow at Wicks Cemetery in Columbus. Visitation is today from 3-8 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Mr. Phillips was born Sept. 2, 1925, in Lowndes County to the late John and Elzenia Wicks Phillips. He was retired from working for Lowndes County Road Maintenance Department. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Pressie Phillips; and 10 siblings. He is survived by his daughters, Della D. Phillips of Columbus and Juanita Phillips of Jackson; sons, Robert Lee, T.C. and Herman Phillips, all of Columbus, Alonzo and Adolph Phillips, both of Crawford, and Calvin Phillips Jr. of Brandon; 10 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Billy Phillips, John Harris, Ben Deloach, Samson Edmond, John Bankhead and Ed Hines.
Natalie M. Randle
MANTEE - Natalie M. Randle, 26, died May 25, 2009, at her residence. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Woodland with the Rev. Ras Pickens officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 3-6 p.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services in West Point. Ms. Randle was preceded in death by her brother, Otis Randle. She is survived by her parents, Theodis Randle Sr. and Glenda Rose Randle of Mantee; sisters, Trevia, Teresa, Amanda and Trisha Randle and Lois Heard; and brothers, Ontario, Sorrento, Theodis Jr., Willie and Segrick Randle, Eric Webb, and Richard and Charlie C. Heard.
James Anthony Rollins
AMORY - James Anthony Rollins, 39, died May 26, 2009, at DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa, Ala. Services are today at 2 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Bro. Sammy McMillen officiating. Burial will follow at Haughton Memorial Park. Visitation will continue until service time today at the funeral home. Mr. Rollins was born Dec. 25, 1969, in Amory. He was a 1988 graduate of Amory High School and had previously been employed by Amory Garment and Himolene in Verona. He was a member of the Cason Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Roy Turner and Thomas Rollins; and grandmothers, Lera Turner and Myrtle Weaver. He is survived by his parents, James Thomas and Barbara Jean Turner Rollins of Amory. Pallbearers will be Brent Swan, Andy Hood, David Robinson, Mike Reeves, Bart Brown, Chris Randolph, Steve Horn, Bucky Hester, Jason Culver, Tim Underwood, Jason Whitaker and Ronnie Colburn.
George Webb
CHICAGO - George Webb, 90, died May 21, 2009, at Northshore Medical Center-Chicago. Services are Saturday at noon at Wesley United Methodist Church of Brooksville with the Rev. Jerry Hinton officiating. Burial will follow at Oddfellow Cemetery in Macon. Visitation is today from noon-5 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Macon. Mr. Webb was born Nov. 25, 1918, in Brooksville to the late Enoch and Lizzie Webb. He worked as a chef and served 25 years in the military. He is survived by his brother, Sylvester Webb of Macon; and sister, Amanda Webb of Blytheville, Ark. Pallbearers will be his nephews.
Willie J. Wells
SPRINGFIELD, Ohio - Willie J. Wells, 66, died May 22, 2009, at Community Hospital-Springfield, Ohio. Services are Saturday at noon at Christian Hill Baptist Church. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. The body will be at the church Saturday one hour prior to services. Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Columbus is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Wells was preceded in death by his parents, Willie L. Wells and Mattie Lou Nelson. He was formerly of Bigbee Valley and was retired from C.E. Bauer Co. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Alfonzo Wells; and stepmother, Dorothy Wells. He is survived by his wife, Gloria J. Wells; daughters, Wanda L. Roberts, Tamara Arnold, Frances and Karen Stewart of Springfield; sons, Johnny Robinson of Columbus, Willie J. Wells of Bellefontaine, Ohio, Christopher Wells of Cincinnati, and Richard, Marlin and Malin Stewart, all of Springfield; sisters, Jacqueline Tanksley of Bessimer, Ala., and Sandra Pearson of Birmingham, Ala.; brother, Joe L. Wells of Bessemer, Ala.; 34 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Lucile Veronica Winklepleck
Lucile Veronica Winklepleck, 95 of Columbus, MS passed away Wednesday, May 27, 2009, at Trinity Health Care, Columbus, MS. Visitation will be held Saturday, May 30, 2009, from 12 to 2 PM at Fairview Baptist Church, Columbus, MS. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, May 30, 2009 at 2 PM at Fairview Baptist Church with Bro. Mickey Dalrymple officiating and Bro. Ron McDougald assisting. Interment will be in Gulf Coast Memorial, Bay St. Louis, MS. Lowndes Funeral Home is in charge of local arrangements. Mrs. Winklepleck was born September 7, 1913, in Hope, ND to the late Robert and Annie M. Young and was a resident of Columbus, MS for the past forty-six years, having moved from Lake Charles, LA. She was a retired bookkeeper with twenty years of service. Mrs. Winklepleck was a member of Columbus Women's Bowling Association, loved to crochet, fish, and loved her grandchildren. She was a member of Fairview Baptist Church, Columbus, MS. In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her husband, Lyle W. Winklepleck. Mrs. Winklepleck is survived by her son, Gary (Patsy) Winklepleck, Ethelsville, AL; step-son, Lyle (Joan) Winklepleck, Diamond Head, MS; step-daughters, Gwen (Leroy) Lesher, Paola, KS; Judy (Joe) Tarwater, Leavenworth, KS; sister, Gertrude (George) Flinn, Topeka, KS; eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
William Davis "Bill" Brown
William Davis "Bill" Brown, 87, died May 21, 2009, at Starkville Manor Nursing Home in Starkville. Services are Friday at 1 p.m. at Living Manna Church in West Point with the Revs. Joe W. Brown and R.H. Brown officiating. Visitation is Thursday from 5-7 p.m. at Carter Funeral Home in West Point. Mr. Brown was a Pentecostal and was affiliated with Church of God in Christ and previously with Manna Church in West Point. He attended grammar school in Noxubee County. When he was young, he sang with two gospel quartets in Oktibbeha County. He was a member of the U.S. Army, served in the Philippines during World War II and reached the rank of corporal. He was honorably discharged and began a career in construction with companies in Memphis, Tenn., Hanesville, Ala., and Columbus. He also worked local jobs at B&W, Bryan Packing House and with the city of West Point. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ennis and Mary Francis Jefferson Brown; 13 siblings; and daughters, Gertrude Corrine Brown and Katrina Brown Mitchell. He is survived by his wife, the Rev. Elvie Corrine Williams Brown of West Point; sons, the Rev. Joe W. Brown of Cleveland, Tenn., and James W. and John D. Brown, both of West Point; daughters, Janie L. Hudson of Garfield Heights, Ohio, and the Rev. Johnnie Ruth Brown of West Point; six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
James L. Faggert
James L. Faggert, 82 of Columbus, MS passed away Tuesday, May 26, 2009 at Sanctuary Hospice House, Tupelo, MS. Visitation was held Wednesday, May 27, 2009 from 6 to 8 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral Services will be held Thursday, May 28, 2009, 2 PM at First Assembly of God church, Columbus, MS with Bro. Lee Miley officiating. His body will lie-in-state at the church from 12 to 2 PM. Interment will be in Memorial Gardens, Columbus, MS with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing. Mr. Faggert was born January 23, 1927 in Panola County, MS to the late Roy Lee and Frances Elizabeth Young Faggert. He lived in Columbus, MS for the past fifty years, having moved from Batesville, MS. He retired from Tennessee Gas Pipeline after thirty-eight years of service, was a former employee of Lowndes Funeral Home and served as a veteran of the U.S. Army. Mr. Faggert was an avid fisherman, hunter, loved sports especially baseball, reading and loved his family. He was a member of Hairston Bend Hunting Club, VFW Post 4272, American Legion Post 69, and a member of First Assembly of God, Columbus, MS. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by the mother of their children, Hazel Perrigan. Mr. Faggert is survived by his wife, Glenda Faggert, Columbus, MS; daughters, Becky (Jeff) Smith, Columbus, MS; Heather (Brian) Painter, Columbus, MS; Melissa (Mark) Beach, Newport Richey, FL; sons, Dennis (Gwen) Faggert, Tupelo, MS; Wayne Faggert; sisters, Sadie Lawrence, Batesville, MS; Hazel Waldrip, Sardis, MS; grandchildren, Lucas Smith, Adam Drummond, Shannon Herrington, Donnie Faggert, Michael Faggert, Hannah Painter, Samantha Beach, Shelby Beach, Matthew Beach, Shiloh Beach and four great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Keith Waldrip, Ken Waldrip, Jimmy Boling, Preston Lawrence, Jeff Smith, Lucas Smith, Ricky Kimbrell and Tim Kimbrell.
Geneva Richardson
HAMTRAMCK, Mich. - Geneva Richardson, 82, died May 21, 2009, at her residence. Services are Thursday at 11 a.m. at St. James United Methodist Church with the Rev Aron Beal officiating. Burial will follow at Union Cemetery. Century Hairston Funeral Home of Columbus is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Richardson was born May 12, 1927, in Ackerman to the late Ozella Gaston Frazier and the late Doc Miller. She as a member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Hamtramck. She is survived by her sisters, Annie C. Frazier and Devora Brown; and brothers, John and Sammy Smith.
Barbara Ann Drake Webb
PRAIRIE - Barbara Ann Drake Webb, 56, died May 25, 2009, at her residence. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Baptist Grove MB Church in Prairie with the Rev. Chester McNairy officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is Friday at Carter Funeral Home in West Point, and the body will be at the church Saturday one hour prior to services. Ms. Webb was preceded in death by her father, Johnny Drake Sr.; and sons, Thaddeus and Travis Webb. She is survived by her mother, Georgia Drake of Prairie; children, Melbee Webb Jr. of Columbus, Annie Webb of Aberdeen, Robert Webb of West Point, and Michelle Carothers, Debra Drake, and Barbara J., Jennifer and Latasha Webb, all of Prairie; sisters, Jannie Drake of Arkansas, Jackie Smith of Wren; brothers, Johnny Jr. and Curley Drake, both of Prairie, Cory Cunningham of Louisiana, Tony Cunningham of Austin, Texas, David Drake of St. Louis and Johnny Lee Drake; 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Herbert Farmer
West Point-Herbert Farmer, 91, died May 27 at Trinity Place Retirement Community in Columbus. Services will be May 29, 4pm from Calvert Funeral Home Chapel, Rev. Dale Funderberg, assisted by Rev. Ron McDougal officiating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation will be May 29, 3-4pm at Calvert Funeral Home of West Point, which is handling the arrangements. Mr. Farmer was born Nov. 25, 1917 in Carroll Co. to the late Clara Dell Teasley & William Byrd Farmer, and retired after 28 years from the Receiving & Inventory Dept. of B&W. He was a member of First Baptist Church and a Veteran of the US Army Air Corp, serving during WWII, and later served in the Army National Guard. He is survived by his wife, Catherine Pope Farmer of Columbus; and sisters, Margaret Farmer McCarty of Pearl, Harriett Farmer Wood of Summitt & Patricia Farmer of Purvis. Pallbearers will be Robbie Robinson, Russ Walker, Larry McCary, Kenny Hudson, Burton Nix & Millard Long.
Virginia Taylor Sanders
West Point-Virginia Taylor Sanders, 86, died May 26 at the West Point Community Living Center. Services will be May 29, 2pm from Calvert Funeral Home Chapel, Pastor Larry Ferguson officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Gardens in West Point. Visitation will be May 29, 12-2pm at Calvert Funeral Home of West Point, which is handling the arrangements. Mrs. Sanders was born May 29, 1922 in Clay Co. to the late Beatrice Bean Taylor & Julius E.Taylor, and was a Wal-Mart PR person for 26 years. She was a member of First Christian Church, and served as Secretary and Treasurer of AARP, Board of Directors of American Red Cross, and served on Clay Co. Board of Economics, Hall of Fame for United Way, received the Distinguished Service Award in 1976, the Auxillary Award in 1996 from State of MS, 2000 Citizen of the Year Award for West Point, Member of Luncheon Civitan Club. She was awarded Civitan of the Year Award, and was President of Sunday Class, and Sunday School Teacher for 5 years. She is survived by daughters, Cheryl Teasley (Tom) of Southaven & Joyce Wood of Phoenix, AZ; grandchildren, Lauren Johnson (Chris) & Shannon Petty (Rob); and great grandchildren, Meredith Johnson, Hayden Johnson, Kyler Petty & Jessica Petty. Pallbearers will be Jack Danovsky, David Gill, Chris Johnson, Richard Teasley, Larry Stafford & Jerald Andrews
Jason Scott Cantrell
VERNON, Ala. - Jason Scott Cantrell, 37, died May 24, 2009, at his residence. Services are Thursday at 11 a.m. at Otts Funeral Home Chapel in Sulligent, Ala., with Bro. Danny Hollis and Bro. Carlos Dean officiating. Burial will follow at Friendship Cemetery. Visitation is today from 6-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Cantrell was born Sept. 23, 1971, in Amory. He was a member of Friendship South Baptist Church. He was a 1989 graduate of Lamar County High School and attended Bevill State Community College-Fayette, Ala. He was employed with Hollis Masonry. He was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Ann Pitts Cantrell. He is survived by his father, Youell Cantrell of Vernon; daughters, Morgan Sierra Avery of Tuscaloosa, Ala., and Jaycie Rose Cantrell of Steens; and sisters, Diane Newell of Sulligent and Donna Morrow of Northport, Ala. Pallbearers will be Larry Wayne Pinkerton, Joseph Burnett, Shane Glasgow, Lee Hollis, Rick Strawbridge and Joe Bowles.
Leroy Coleman, Sr.
Leroy Coleman, Sr., 73, died May 18, 2009, at Newton Regional Hospital-Newton. Services were Saturday at Altare MB Church in Newton with the Rev. Robert Moncrief officiating. Burial followed at the church cemetery. New Haven Memorial Funeral Home of De Kalb was in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Coleman was born July 19, 1935, in Newton County to the late Joseph and Ardell Coleman. He graduated from Pilate Vocational High School. He joined Altare MB Church at an early age, where he served as a deacon, superintendent of Sunday school, Bible class teacher, and trustee. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Dorothy Jean Coleman; two brothers and seven sisters. He is survived by his wife, Ruby Jean Williams Coleman; daughters, Jeanette Hoye of Dallas, and Susan Sanders and Catherine Coleman, both of Snellville, Ga.; Coleman, and Janae and Layla Coleman; brother, Joe Willie Coleman; sisters, Mary Montgomery and Angie Bailey of Newton.
Alton Allen Honnoll
Alton Allen Honnoll, age 88, died May 25, 2009 at Baptist Memorial Hospital Golden Triangle in Columbus, MS. Services will be held at Memorial Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 27, 2009 at 2:00 PM with Minister Joel Ellis officiating. Burial will follow at Furnace Hill Cemetery near Vernon, AL at 3:45 p.m. Visitation will be at Memorial Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 26, 2009, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Alton Honnoll was born in Columbus, MS on January 8, 1921 to the late John A. and Dora Williams Honnoll. He lived most of his life in the Caledonia and Columbus area, with the exception of his military years in London, England and his four years of wanderlust when he moved his young family to California. He attended the first grade at Franklin Academy in Columbus then moved to the rural schools in the Caledonia area. At age 16, during the depression years, he joined the Citizens Conservation Corps (CCC) for two years working in the forestry division as a pole climber with the telephone crew. Upon returning home, he helped work the family farm until drafted into the military. He served in the Army Air Corp, stationed in London, repairing damaged bombers. He always had stories to tell about his experiences there. He was part owner of Shorty's Body Shop with his uncle David (Shorty) Williams and gained a reputation as on of the finest auto body repairmen in Columbus. He later owned his own repair business until his retirement. Guitar playing was his hobby from a young age that gave him great enjoyment until his death and he was known as a wonderful, gifted musician. He married Irma Nell Chaffin on September 18,1943, and they had over 65 years together. Unfortunately, the last 15 years was spent being totally devoted to the care of his wife who suffers from Alzheimer's. He set a wonderful example of love and devotion to everyone who knew him. He was a faithful Christian and member of East Columbus Church of Christ having served in the past as Deacon. His Bible knowledge was extraordinary. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his sisters - Mrs. Hazel Malone and Mrs. Opal Pope. Survivors include wife - Irma Nell Honnoll of Columbus, MS; two daughters - Patricia Wheeler and Marilyn Lavender, all of Columbus; two sons-in-law Doug Wheeler and Mike Lavender; grandchildren - Todd Wheeler (Candy), Tupelo, MS, Scott Wheeler (Terri), Aberdeen, MS, Amanda Lavender Westmoreland (Josh), Tupelo, MS, Jason Wheeler Columbus, MS and John Lavender (Kelly), Nolensville, TN; ten great-grandchildren - Thomas Lavender, Blake Wheeler, Dalton Wheeler, Anna Lavender, Sam Alton Westmoreland, Kate Wheeler, Taylor Wheeler, Wyatt Wheeler, Mary Wilemon Westmoreland, and Ava Lavender. The pallbearers are Todd Wheeler, Scott Wheeler, Amanda Lavender Westmoreland, Jason Wheeler, John Lavender, Thomas Lavender.
Mable Lee Strong Jameson
WEST POINT - Mable Lee Strong Jameson, 73, died May 21, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-West Point. Services are Thursday at 2 p.m. at St. Matthews Church of God in Christ in West Point with Pastor Jerome Gill officiating. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in West Point. Visitation is today from 3-6 p.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services of West Point. Mrs. Jameson was preceded in death by her husband, Claude A. Jameson; brother, Gilley Strong; and sisters, Mary, Martha and Gillian Strong. She is survived by her sons, Minister Larry D. Strong and Claude A. Jameson III, both of West Point; daughters, Dora Pernell, Diane Gill and Joan Matthews, all of West Point, and Annette Bennett of Gainesville, Fla.; brother, Horace Strong of St. Louis; sisters, Lavora Bufford, Annie McCotry and Lillie Spraggins, all of West Point; 25 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.
Queen Victoria Marshall
WEST POINT - Queen Victoria Marshall, 92, died May 20, 2009, at Rush Foundation Hospital-Meridian. Services were today at 11 a.m. at Liberty Methodist Church in Eupora with the Rev. Willie B. Lairy officiating. Burial followed at North Union Cemetery in Bellefountaine. Carter's Mortuary Services of Wet Point was in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Marshall was preceded in death by her husband, Obediah Marshall; parents, Henry and Mattie Hemphill; sons, Clairel, O.C. and Sterling Marshall; daughter, Martha Nell Marshall; brother, Isiah Hemphill; and sisters, Lila Spencer, Sophia Mills, Odelle Mosley and Henrietta Steels. She is survived by her sons, Jimmy Rogers Marshall, Harvey Lyn Marshall and Henry Herbert Marshall, all of Orlando, Fla.; daughters, Lela Mae Crusoe of Parma, Mo., and Mary Jewel Marshall Deanes of West Point; 35 grandchildren and 58 great-grandchildren.
Martha Jo Noe
SULLIGENT, Ala. - Martha Jo Noe, 74, died May 25, 2009, at Northwest Medical Center-Winfield, Ala. Services are Thursday at 6 p.m. at Otts Funeral Home Chapel in Sulligent with Bro. William Kirkman officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery. Visitation is Thursday for three hours prior to services at the funeral home. Ms. Noe was born Oct. 20, 1934, in Lamar County, Ala., to the late Joe and Katie Pitts Warren. She was a member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church. She had worked as a babysitter. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, James Noe; brother, Fred Moore; and four grandchildren. She is survived by her son, Donald Noe of Gattman; daughter, Lisa Flippo of Sulligent; siblings, Shirley Duncan, Eloise McDaniel and Edna Glasgow, all of Vernon; Rachel Hankins, and Frank and Billy Joe Warren, all of Sulligent, David Warren of Hahira, Ga., and Betty Warren of Augusta, Ga.; 14 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, six stepgrandchildren and 15 stepgreat-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Jeremy Flippo, Al and Donny Noe, Chris Smith, Dan Glasgow, Tim Duncan and Eddie Hankins.
George Gregory Shelton
WEST POINT - George Gregory Shelton, 40, died May 22, 2009, at Central Mississippi Medical Center-Jackson. Services are Friday at 1 p.m. at St. Matthews Church of God in Christ in West Point with the Rev. Avis L. Shelton officiating. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in West Point. Visitation is Thursday from 3-6 p.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services in West Point. Mr. Shelton was preceded in death by his parents, Annie S. Truitt and Jacob Sherrod. He is survived by his sons, LaQuintin Tate of West Point and KeJuan Williams of Jackson; daughters, Cr-Lexus Irons of West Point; brother, the Rev. Avis L. Shelton of West Point; sisters, Amy Stewart of Florence, Ky., and Tiffany Truitt and Avis E. Shelton, both of West Point.
Elliot Bruce Haggard
Macon-Elliot Bruce Haggard, 76, died May 26 at NMMC-West Point. Services will be May 28, 2pm from Mashulaville Baptist Church near Macon, Elder David Blair officiating. Burial will follow in Sardis Cemetery near Louisville. Visitation will be May 28, 1-2pm at Mashulaville Baptist Church near Macon. Calvert Funeral Home of West Point ishandling the arrangements. Mr. Haggard was born Aug. 28, 1932 in the Ellison Ridge Community of Winston Co. to the late Marguerite Latimer Haggard & Walter Ernest Haggard. He was a fitter at Babcock & Wilcox Co. for 38 years and a member of Mashulaville Baptist Church. He was a Veteran of the US Army during the Korean War, and was preceded in death by brothers, Robert Ernest Haggard & Darrell Haggard. He is survived by his wife, Dale Felker Haggard of Macon; daughters, Angela K. Daniel (George) of Fayetteville, GA, Anne Richardson (Johnny) of Macon & Della Wilson (Frank) of Cedar Bluff; sons, Elliot Bruce Haggard, Jr. (Emily) of Mobile, AL, Aubrey Blair (Donna) of Cedar Bluff & Allen Blair (Etta) of Petal; 11 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; sisters, Hazel Shows (Jack) of Brandon, Evelle H. Bethany (Hack) of Birmingham, AL & Eileen Flowers of Bull Shoals, AR. Pallbearers will be grandsons & nephews: Brandon Blair, Chris Richardson, Justin Hairston, William Wilson, Jason McIlwain & Patrick Haggard.
Bob Butler
West Point-Robert Allen Butler, 56, died May 24 at BMH-GT. Services will be May 27, 2pm from Calvert Funeral Home Chapel, Rev. Don Bishop officiating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery in West Point. Visitation will be May 26, 5-7pm at Calvert Funeral Home of West Point, which is handling the arrangements. Mr. Butler was born July 30, 1952 in West Point to Sara Alice Jordan Weaver & the late Samuel Lafayette Butler. He was a USDA Meat Inspector for 10 years, and spent 30 years as a meat cutter, retiring from USDA service at Bryan Foods. He also worked at Choctaw Maid Poultry Processing Co, was a Veteran of the National Guard during the Vietnam War, and was of the Methodist Faith. He is survived by a daughter, Patricia Diane Brophy (Don) of Durant, IO; a son, Dr. Robert Allen Butler, II (Julie) of Starkville; grandchildren, Tori Butler, Carrie Wammack, Aiden Reese Butler & Austin Riley Butler; several nieces and a nephew; his mother, Sara "Bitsy" Weaver of West Point; and brother, Samuel Boyd Butler (Sandy) of West Point. Pallbearers will be Alan Gilliam, Bobby Magers, Jerry Klutts, Steve Woolbright, Bob Brown, Ricky Stafford, Jeff Cartee & Bobby Osburn.
Estelle R. Ivey
West Point-Estelle R. Ivey, 85, died May 24 at her residence. Graveside services will be May 27, 10am, Rev. R.C. Bryan officiating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery in West Point. Visitation will be May 26, 5-7pm at Calvert Funeral Home of West Point, which is handling the arrangements. Mrs. Ivey was born June 4, 1923 in Prentiss Co. to the late Mary Birmingham Runions & Willie Monroe Runions. She was preceded in death by her grandson, Jason Rhea. She is survived by her husband, W.D. Ivey of West Point; daughter, Linda Rhea (Bennon) of Cedar Bluff; son, Danny Ivey (Georgene) of West Point; grandchildren, James Pointer, Bill Pointer & Martha Poss; 10 great grandchildren; and 2 great great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Skeeter Smith, Jimmy Pointer, Bill Pointer, Billy Ivey, Ronnie Ivey & Roger Ivey.
Tyler Wallace
West Point-Tyler Dalton Wallace, 15, died May 22 at his residence. Services were May 25 at Robinson Chapel, Bro. Ricky Watson officiating. Burial followed in West Point Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Robinson Funeral Home of West Point handled the arrangements. Tyler was born Sept. 17, 1993 in West Point to Paul & Dodie Wallace, and attended Hebron Baptist Church. He was a member of the West Point golf team, power lifting team and the football team. He was preceded in death by his great grandparents, CHarles D. Britt, Monalou Coggins, Geneva Vest, and Doug Wallace. He is survived by his parents; brother, Brian Wallace of West Point; grandparents, Joy Nolan of West Point, Steve Wallace, Sr. of Kansas City, MO, and Billy & Rachael McMullen of Eupora; great grandparents, Kathrine & Kenneth Dye of Kansas City, MO & Ollie Britt of Spring Hill; aunts and uncles, Heath & Mindy Morrison of Brandon, Page & Jake Huffman of Eupora, Rachael & Matt Rickford of Benton, AR, Shawndee & Robert Stegall, Jr. of West Point & Steve Wallace, Jr. of Indianapolis; and several cousins. Pallbearers were John Davis, Keith Manning, Dennis Allen, Roger Burton, Lee J. Grisham, Jerry Freemin, Steve Cannon & Chris Chambless.
Bertha Burnett Burlingame
SULLIGENT, Ala. - Bertha Burnett Burlingame, 92, died May 24, 2009, at her residence. Services were Monday at 3 p.m. at Otts Funeral Home Chapel in Sulligent with Bro. Randy Wright and Carol Lambert officiating. Burial followed at Lamar Memory Gardens in Vernon, Ala. Mrs. Burlingame was born Oct. 17, 1916, to the late Jasper Franklin and Lillie Virginia Black Taylor. She was a member of Providence Methodist Church and had previously been a member of McCoy Methodist Church in Birmingham, Ala., where she was a member of United Methodist Women. She was also a member of Buds and Blossoms Garden Club. She had previously lived in Irondale, Ala. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, Frank Burnett and Ralph Burlingame; brothers, Marvin and Ted Taylor and Homer Burnett; sisters, Margie Lucas and Maggie Franks Todd. She is survived by her son, Jim Burnett of Vernon, Ala., daughter, Ann Hollis of Sulligent; stepdaughter, Linda Sexton of Hueytown, Ala.; four grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Pallbearers were Freddie, Anthony and Joseph Burnett, Danny Hollis, Howard Franks and Lincoln Egger.
Horace "Tugg" Hughes
Horace "Tugg" Hughes, 58, died on May 22, 2009, in Jackson. Services are Wednesday at 2 p.m. at New Zion MB Church in Steens with the Rev. John C. Edwards officiating. Burial will follow at New Zion Church Cemetery. Visitation is today from 3-8 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services in Columbus. Mr. Hughes was born Nov. 24, 1950, in Steens to the late Beverly and Bessie Will Shirley Hughes. He was a member of New Zion MB Church where he served on the Deacon Board. He had worked at Johnson Tombigbee and United Technologies. He is survived by his wife, Sarah H. Hughes of Columbus; children, Reginald Harris and Horace Andre Hughes, both of Columbus, and Crystal Hughes Nichols of Jackson; brothers, Charlie, Dale and Willie Mac Hughes, all of Columbus; and Hosea and Felton Hughes, both of Steens; sisters, Dorthy Roland of Los Angeles, and Clara Gregory and Olivia Spann, both of Steens; and five grandchildren. Pallbearers will be family and friends.
Lee Roy Ives
SULLIGENT, Ala. - Lee Roy Ives, 34, died May 22, 2009, at his residence. Services are Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. at People's Tabernacle with Bro. Arman McDill, Bro. William Kirkman and Bro. Philip Blaylock officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the church. Otts Funeral Home of Sulligent is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Ives was born Nov. 6, 1974, in Monroe County. He was a member of Revelation of Holiness Church. He had previously worked at NAACO. He was preceded in death by his infant brother, Willie Ives; and grandparents, Noel and Bessie Ives and J.B. and Alma McDowell. He is survived by his mother, Martha Joyce Stockman of Sulligent; father, Peanut Ives of Sulligent; sons, Justin and Mason Lee Ives, both of Sulligent; daughter, Haley Ives of Sulligent; and sisters, Cindy Shriver of Amory and Ginger Glasgow of Vernon, Ala.
Doris Ruby
SULLIGENT, Ala. - Doris Ruby, 68, died May 24 2009, at her residence. Services are Thursday at 2 p.m. at People's Tabernacle with Bro. Philip Blaylock officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery. Visitation is Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at Otts Funeral Home in Sulligent, and the body will be at the church Thursday one hour prior to services. Mrs. Ruby was born Sept. 8, 1940, in Lamar County, Ala., to the late Leonard and Ruby Tucker Blaylock. She was a member of People's Tabernacle. She had previously worked as a seamstress. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Fred Ruby; and one granddaughter. She is survived by her sons, Fred Ivan Ruby of Tampa, Fla., Gene Ruby of Beaverton, Ala., Mark Ruby of Arizona, Tom Ruby of Dresden, Tenn.; and Ron, Rodney and Dennis Ruby, all of Sulligent; daughters, Rosetta Blaylock of Milan, Ill., and Rhonda Coleman of Beaverton; brother, Bill Blaylock; sisters, Betty Schiess, Dorthy Wells, Kathy Jester, Laverne Raine, Joann Palmer and Brenda Morgan; 30 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Jeff, Brandon, Cory and Jake Ruby, Austin Fisher, Jeff Barnes and Brian Kirkman.
Elois Lewis Toney
AUSTIN, Texas - Elois Lewis Toney, 86, died May 18, 2009, in Austin. Services are Wednesday at 1 p.m. at St. James United Methodist Church in Columbus with the Rev. Fred Brown officiating. Burial will follow at Union Cemetery in Columbus. Visitation is today from noon-7 p.m. and the family will greet visitors from 6-7 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Columbus. Mrs. Toney was born Oct. 19, 1922, in Columbus to the late Daisy P. Phinisse Lewis and Tommie T. Lewis Sr. She owned her own business, worked on Wall Street and retired from the New York City School System. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Benjamin L. Toney; brother, Major Lewis; and sisters, Alva Lewis Johnson and Helen Lewis Carter. She is survived by her son, Dr. Charles Ellis Toney of Portland, Ore.; brothers, Tommie Jr., Maurice, Dr. Cornell, Herbert, Melvin and Clark Lewis; sisters, Frances Lewis Buchanan and Martha Lewis Raine; three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Rena Mae Burns
HUNTSVILLE - Rena Mae Burns, 69, died May 21, 2009, in Huntsville. Services are Monday at 11 a.m. at Norwood Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Scott Stokes officiating. Burial will follow at Wofford Cemetery. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Burns was born in Detroit, Ala., to the late Leroy and Rachael Iradois Woodham Guyton. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James F. Burns; son, Dale Ray Burns; and brother, L.D. Guyton. She is survived by her daughters, Delores Burns Graham of Silvis, Ill., and Marsha Burns Metz of San Angelo, TX.; sisters, Agnes Guyton Gates of Vernon, Ala., and Doris Guyton Price of Madison, Ala.; brothers, James Guyton of Hamilton, Ala., and Cecil Rolland Guyton of Sulligent, Ala.
James Dent
James Dent, 71, died May 20, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services were Wednesday at 3 p.m. at New Jerusalem Church with the Bis. Leroy Horne officiating. Burial followed at Abundant Life Cemetery. Visitation was Tuesday from 1-5 p.m. at Jones Memorial Funeral Home. Mr. Dent was recognized and known as the overseer of Abundant Life Ministries. He was a dedicated employee of United Parcel Service in Chicago for thirty years before retiring and relocating back home. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Henry C. Dent; sisters, Mavis Nelson and Irene Bonds. He is survived by his wife, Corene Dent of Macon; daughter, Yvonne Conner of Monee, Ill.; brothers, Willie Earl Dent of Chicago, David Dent of Calif., and Joseph Dent of St. Louis; and sister, Nettie B. Brown of Macon.
William David Ellis
GORDO, Ala. - William David Ellis, 85, died May 22, 2009, at V.A. Medical Center. Services are today at 3 p.m. at Shady Grove Baptist Church with the Rev. Eugene Junkin officiating. Body will lie in state one hour prior to service time. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Skelton Funeral Home of Reform, Ala. are in charge of arrangements. Mr. Ellis was born May 16, 1924, in Fayette County, Ala., to the late Rich and Pernie Cole Ellis. He graduated from Berry High School where he was a member of the basketball state championship team. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and worked at B.F. Goodrich until his retirement in 1981. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Grace Storey Ellis; and daughter, Jillaine McGough. He is survived by his wife, Earline Elmore Ellis of Gordo; daughter, Carol Ellis Strickland of Tuscaloosa, Ala.; sons, David Ellis of Tuscaloosa, and Steve Ellis of Phoenix, Ariz.; stepsons, Donald, Danny and Kenneth Elmore; stepdaughters, Irene Burgess and Debbie Goodman; sisters, Richedean Oden and Blonnie Taylor; nine grandchildren, seven stepgrandchildren, and one step great-grandchild. Pallbearers will be his grandsons.
J.D. Howton
GUIN, Ala. - J.D. Howton, 67, died May 20, 2009, at Northwest Medical Center in Winfield, Ala. Services were yesterday at 2 p.m. at Otts Funeral Home Chapel with Sis. Debra Banta officiating. Burial followed at Old Union Cemetery. Visitation was Friday from 6-8 p.m. Mr. Howton was born July 10, 1941, in Walker County, Ala., to the late Louis Andrew and Hassie Lee Whisenhunt Howton. He worked for Scotty Howton Trucking for several years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, John B. Howton. He is survived by his wife, Ruthie Mae Warren Howton of Winfield, Ala.; son, Jay Devon Howton of Rose Creek, Minn.; daughter, Kimberly Todd of Carbon Hill, Ala.; stepson, Timmy Warren of Sulligent, Ala.; stepdaughters, Sherry Hendrix and Karen Bishop, both of Winfield, Ala.; brothers, Earl Howton of Lawton, Okla., Carl J. Howton of Lincoln Park, Minn., and Cylde Howton of Dora, Ala.; sister, Gaynell O'Rear of Jasper, Ala.; and four grandchildren. Pallbearers are Jimmy Freeman, Billy Gunner, Mike Bailey, Chris Hunter, David Todd, Phillip and Timmy Warren, and Jacob Howton.
Taylor O'Neil Smith
SMITHVILLE - Taylor O'Neil Smith, 14, died May 15, 2009, in Monroe County. Services are Monday at 2 p.m. at Smithville Baptist Church with Bro. Wes White officiating. Burial will follow at Thompson Cemetery. Visitation is today from 5-9 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home of Amory. Mr. Smith was born Nov. 20, 1994, to Kris R. and Angela Flippo Smith. He was a seventh grade student at Smithville School and was a member of Smithville Baptist Church. He played Jr. High football and was the only member of the power lifting team to go to state competition. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Karen Flippo; great-grandparents, Jimmy F. Smith, Marie Reeves, Marcell and Burnie Jones. He is survived by his father, Kris R. Smith of Bethlehem; mother, Angela Flippo Smith of Amory; brothers, Randle and Damian Smith; grandparents, Jimmy R. and Teresa Smith of Bethlehem, and Tommy Flippo of Tupelo; and great-grandmother, Etoy Chism of Wren. Pallbearers will be Paul Key, Colby Comer, John McDonald, Jason Moffet, John Welch, Jonathan and Brad Jones, and T.C. Noe.
Justin Ivan Toney
STARKVILLE - Justin Ivan Toney, 19, died May 18, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Services were Saturday at 2 p.m. at Spring Hill MB Church with the Rev. Dennis Toney officiating. Burial followed at Spring Hill MB Church. West Memorial Funeral Home of Starkville was in charge of arrangements. Mr. Toney was born in Great Falls, Mont. He was a student and a Baptist. He is survived by his mother, Valerie Toney of Starkville; and father, Jessie I. Parker of Lancaster, Calif.
Barbara Ann Cook
ABERDEEN - Barbara Ann Cook, 54, died May 15, 2009, at her residence. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Pleasant Grove MB Church with Pastor Danny Gladney officiating. Burial will follow at Baptist Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be today from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and the body will be at the church one hour prior to services on Saturday. Westbrook Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Ms. Cook was born May 19, 1954. She was a member of Pleasant Grove MB Church. She was preceded in death by her mother, Julia Lucas; father, Artley Blanchard; stepfather, Willie Lucas; and sisters, Geraldine Cooperwood and Marie Blanchard-Agnew. She is survived by her sons, Nikia Cook and Willie A. Cook Jr.; daughter, Chelcey Cook; brothers, Willie C. and Willie Lee Lucas, and Clarence, Gregory and Leonard Blanchard, all of Aberdeen, Robert Lucas of Jacksonville, Fla., Willie C. Blanchard of Brockton, Mass., and Jerome Blanchard of Gainesville, Fla.; sisters, Annie Bell Garth, Susie Ann Buchanan, Hilda Lenoir, Willie Mae Daniel, Doris and Cynthia Lucas, Brenda McGee, Doris Boone, and Mildred and Priscilla Blanchard, all of Aberdeen, Ida Bell Davis of Nashville, Tenn., and Beverly Muhammad of Miami; and two grandchildren.
Rosalind LaShawn Easley
Rosalind LaShawn Easley, 39, died May 19, 2009, at her residence in Columbus. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Southside MB Church with the Rev. Rayford Evans officiating. Burial will follow at New Baptist Temple Memorial Gardens. Visitation is today from 3-8 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Ms. Easley was born March 29, 1970, in Columbus. She was a member of Southside MB Church. She is survived by her brothers, Alvertis Sturdivant Jr. of Birmingham, Ala., Kent Council and Warren Leech, both of Columbus, and Dejuan Johnson of Dallas; sisters, Barbara Bailey of Tupelo and Sherry Owens of Chicago. Pallbearers will be her cousins.
Doris Floyd Elmore
GORDO, Ala. - Doris Floyd Elmore, 85, died May 20, 2009. Graveside services were today at 11 a.m. at Gordo City Cemetery with the Rev. Nancy Cole and Dr. Sam Andreasen officiating. Skelton Funeral Home of Reform, Ala., was in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Elmore was born April 24, 1924, in Gordo to the late Claude and Gladys Strickland Floyd. She was a lifelong resident of Gordo and a member of First Baptist Church of Gordo. She was a homemaker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Lewis Clifton Elmore; brothers, Charles, Claude and Frank Floyd; and infant son, Joseph Elmore. She is survived by her daughter, Teresa Wilson of Gordo; sons, Lewis and Charles Elmore, both of Gordo; sisters, Sara Murphy of Aliceville, Ala., Kathaleen May of Marietta, Ga., and Marjorie Davis of Tuscaloosa, Ala.; brothers, Merrill Floyd of Aliceville and James Floyd of Gordo; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be her nephews.
Mamozell Parker Estes
GORDO, Ala. - Mamozell Parker Estes, 98, died May 20, 2009, at her residence. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Gordo First Baptist Church with the Rev. David Singleton officiating. Burial will follow at Shiloh Cemetery. Visitation is Saturday for one hour prior to services and immediately following services at the church. Skelton Funeral Home of Reform, Ala., is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Estes was born July 28, 1910, in Gordo to the late Z.D. and Della Gardner Parker. She was a member of Gordo First Baptist Church, a homemaker and a lifelong resident of Pickens County. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Claudie Estes; daughter, Claudine Latham; and six brothers. She is survived by her daughters, Chris Powell and Karen Estes, both of Gordo; sister, Betty Bargett of Dearborn Heights, Mich.; brother, Homer Parker of Gordo; three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be her nephews.
Durwood House
HAMILTON - Durwood House, 73, died May 20, 2009, at Aurora Australis Lodge in Columbus. Services are today at 1 p.m. at Center Hill Baptist Church with Mason Welch and Bro. Terry Edwards officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home of Aberdeen is in charge of arrangements. Mr. House was born Aug. 7, 1935, in Hamilton to the late Leonard and Lelia Easter House. He was a lifelong resident of Hamilton where he was co-owner of Durwood's Grocery. He was a member and deacon of Center Hill Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Durley and Bill House; and three grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Maxie House of Hamilton; daughters, Charlotte Wilson, Sonya Cockerham and Mechelle Welch, all of Hamilton; sons, Randy House of Shreveport, La., and Allen House of Hamilton; sister, Alza Blair of Northport, Ala.; brothers, Herbert House of Tyler, Texas, and Richard House of Manchester, Tenn.; 15 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be deacons of Center Hill Baptist Church.
J.D. Howton
GUIN, Ala. - J.D. Howton, 67, died May 20, 2009, at Northwest Medical Center in Winfield, Ala. Services were yesterday at 2 p.m. at Otts Funeral Home Chapel with Sis. Debra Banta officiating. Burial followed at Old Union Cemetery. Visitation was Friday from 6-8 p.m. Mr. Howton was born July 10, 1941, in Walker County, Ala., to the late Louis Andrew and Hassie Lee Whisenhunt Howton. He worked for Scotty Howton Trucking for several years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, John B. Howton. He is survived by his wife, Ruthie Mae Warren Howton of Winfield, Ala.; son, Jay Devon Howton of Rose Creek, Minn.; daughter, Kimberly Todd of Carbon Hill, Ala.; stepson, Timmy Warren of Sulligent, Ala.; stepdaughters, Sherry Hendrix and Karen Bishop, both of Winfield, Ala.; brothers, Earl Howton of Lawton, Okla., Carl J. Howton of Lincoln Park, Minn., and Cylde Howton of Dora, Ala.; sister, Gaynell O'Rear of Jasper, Ala.; and four grandchildren. Pallbearers are Jimmy Freeman, Billy Gunner, Mike Bailey, Chris Hunter, David Todd, Phillip and Timmy Warren, and Jacob Howton.
Mary Marjorie McInnis McGlohn
Mary Marjorie McInnis McGlohn, 85, died May 20, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-West Point. Services are Saturday at 10 a.m. at Robinson Funeral Home Chapel in West Point with the Rev. Don Bishop officiating. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation is Saturday for one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Mrs. McGlohn was born Nov. 16, 1923, in Swainsboro, GA., to the late Daniel McInnis and Mary Sue McLemore. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in West Point, First United Methodist Women, Marcella Joiner Circle and Wesley Wasson Sunday School Class. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Lee McGlohn. She is survived by her son, Robert Russell McGlohn of Birmingham, Ala.; daughters, Mary Carr Ecklund of Manhattan, Kan., Elizabeth Neil McGlohn of West Point and Marjorie Sue Mietzner of Pittsburgh, Pa.; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Pallbearers will be Bucky Kellogg, Bob Wyman, Eugene Bailey, Myron Hannigan, Keith Ecklund and Charles Mietzner.
Willie Tyson Oliver
MACON - Willie Tyson Oliver, 76, died May 19, 2009, at his residence in Macon. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Macedonia Baptist Church with the Rev. Johnny L. Moore officiating. Visitation is today from noon-5 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Macon. Mr. Oliver was born Aug. 30, 1932, to the late Matthew and Linnie Sims-Oliver. He was retired from Valley Gravel Co. after 33 years of service. He worked as a heavy machine operator. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Brenda Oliver. He is survived by his wife, Clara Harlan Oliver of Macon; son, Willie Lester Oliver of Macon; daughter, Wanda Oliver-Bledsoe of Macon; brother, Charlie Oliver of St. Louis; sisters, Nanie O. McKinley of St. Louis and Minerva O. Jones of New Orleans; three grandchildren and one great-grandson. Pallbearers will be members of the Class of 1979.
Vivian Jenell Miller Roberts
ATHENS COMMUNITY - Vivian Jenell Miller Roberts, 79, died May 21, 2009, at Gilmore Memorial Hospital-Amory. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Aberdeen with Bro. Tom Sheffield officiating. Burial will follow at Beeks Cemetery. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Roberts was born Aug. 27, 1929, in Monroe County to the late Robert Lee Miller and Beatrice Jones Miller. She was a lifelong resident of Monroe County where she was a homemaker. She was a member of New Hope Methodist Church, and she served 35 years as trustee and treasurer for Beeks Cemetery Committee. She wrote news as a reporter for Aberdeen Examiner and Amory Advertiser for over 50 years. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert D. Roberts; daughter, Flora Yvonne Roberts; sister, Mildred Smith; and brother, Robert Gordon Miller. She is survived by her daughter, Wanda Roberts Peden of Aberdeen; sister, Jean Renfro of Greenwood Springs; two grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Pallbearers will be Keith Kearce, Jerry and Denton Roberts, Joe Peden, Edwin Smith and Larry Williams.
Jimmy Bernard Summerville
MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Jimmy Bernard Summerville, 42, died May 15, 2009, at his residence. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Lee Middle School Auditorium in Columbus with the Rev. Howard Griffen officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Columbus. Visitation is today from 12:30-8 p.m. with a wake from 6-8 p.m. at Century Hairston Funeral Home in Columbus. Mr. Summerville was born May 8, 1967, in Columbus. He was a construction worker and a member of Brick Missionary Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his father, Steve Oden. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Joiner-Summerville of Memphis; mother, Julia Summerville; grandmother, Daisey Summerville of Columbus; daughters, Jameica and JaMisha Summerville; sisters, Vanassa Griffen of Memphis and Stacey Summerville of Columbus; brothers, Victor and Melvin Summerville, both of Columbus, and Freddrick Summerville of Memphis; and one grandson.
Marjorie McGlohn
West Point-Mary Marjorie McInnis McGlohn, 85, died May 20 at NMMC-West Point. Services will be May 23, 10am at Robinson Chapel, Rev. Don Bishop officiating. Visitation will be May 23, 9am until service time at Robinson Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery. Mrs. McGlohn was born Nov. 16, 1923 in Swainsboro, GA to the late Daniel McInnis & Mary Sue McLemore, and was a member of First United Methodist Women, Marcella Joiner Circle, and Wesley Wasson Sunday School Class. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Lee McGlohn. She is survived by her son, Robert Russell McGlohn (Marcia) of Birmingham, AL; daughters, Mary Carr Ecklund (Robert) of Manhatten, KS, Elizabeth Neil McGlohn of West Point & Marjorie Sue Mietzner (Tim) of Pittsburg, PA; grandchildren, Amelia Hannigan (Myron) of Lawrence, KS, Keith Ecklund (Hilary) of Washougal, WA, Emily McGlohn of Charlottesville, VA, Robyn McGlohn of Huntsville, AL, and Charles Mietzner & Daniel Mietzner of Pittsburg; and a great grandchild, Carly Anne Ecklund of Washougal, WA. Pallbearers will be Bucky Kellogg, Bob Wyman, Eugene Bailey, Myron Hannigan, Keith Ecklund & Charles Mietzner.
Selma Eugene Shaw
MILLPORT, Ala. - Selma Eugene Shaw, 74, died May 19, 2009, at Fayette Medical Center-Fayette, Ala. Services are Friday at 11 a.m. at Dowdle Funeral Home Chapel in Millport with the Rev. Shawn McDaniel officiating. Burial will follow at Millport City Cemetery in Millport. Visitation is Friday for one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Mr. Shaw was born June 17, 1934, in Lamar County, Ala., to the late James B. and Annie M. Shaw. He was a lifelong resident of Millport and worked for Seminole Manufacturing in Columbus for many years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Benson and Albert Shaw. He is survived by his son, David E. Shaw; brothers, Miland Shaw of Tuscaloosa, Ala., and John Shaw of Millport; two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Kyle Shaw, Tony Maddox, Huntley Peeks, Gary Freeman, Phillip Rushing and Robbie McAdams.
Robert Fred Plyman
REFORM, Ala. - Robert Fred Plyman, 96, died May 19, 2009, at Salem Nursing & Rehab. Services are Friday at 2 p.m. at Skelton Funeral Home Chapel in Reform with the Revs. Donnie Sisk and Larry Shelton officiating. Burial will follow at Arbor Springs Cemetery. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Plyman was born Jan. 21, 1913, in Pickens County, Ala., to the late John Lee Plowman and Annie Bell Babb Plowman. He was a member of Arbor Springs Missionary Baptist Church and a retired employee of Housel Hardware Co. with over 30 years of service. He was a member of Lions Club and Woodmen of the World, and he was a lifelong resident of Pickens County. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Edna E. Shelton Plyman; son, James Adrian Plyman; and stepmother, Ruth Lee Plowman Starnes. He is survived by his daughter, Betty Plyman of Birmingham, Ala.; son, Leland Hayes Plowman of Reform; brothers, James and Johnny Plowman, both of Gordo, Ala.; four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Jim, Adam and Keith Plowman, David Plyman, Johnny Dean and Dale Shelton.
Wanda Faye Christian Brown
VERNON, Ala. - Wanda Faye Christian Brown, 78, died May 18, 2009, at DCH Regional Medical Center. Services are Thursday at 11 a.m. at Liberty Freewill Baptist Church with Bro. Jerry Robinson officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery in Vernon. Visitation is today from 6-9 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home in Vernon, and the body will be at the church one hour prior to services on Thursday. Ms. Brown was born Sept. 26, 1930, in Waurika, Okla. She had worked in cereal packing for Ralston Purina. She is survived by her sons, Jerry Hopson of Battle Creek, Mich., and Phillip Keith Hopson of Mobile, Ala.; daughters, Shirley Jean Jackson of Round Rock, Texas, and Marlene Jolley and Judith Ciara Williams, both of Vernon; brothers, Noble and Walter Christian, both of Vernon; and sister, Lavore Christian Nesbit of Vernon.
Jessie Ray Foster
HAMILTON - Jessie Ray Foster, 67, died May 18, 2009, at his residence. Services are Thursday at 2 p.m. at Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Aberdeen with Bro. Jessie Betts and Bro. Tony Rooks officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Foster was born June 18, 1941, in Amory to the late Jessie R. Foster and Mildred Lawrence Hendrix. He lived in Hamilton for the past 50 years. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps in Vietnam. He retired as a supervisor from ITT Bell & Gossett in Morton Grove, Ill. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Sandy Ray Foster. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Fay Cook Foster of Hamilton; daughters, Arlene Hissong of Amory, Tammy Blakeney of Houston and Tina Smith of Hamilton; son, Chris Foster of Hamilton; brother, Earnest Hendrix of Nettleton; seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Billy Ray Yarbrough, Jamie Smith, Chris Foster, Josh Blakeney, Blake Hissong and Michael Dobbs.
Lorenzo Curtis Jefferson
WEST POINT - Lorenzo Curtis Jefferson, 28, died May 13, 2009, in Corinth. Services were today at 11 a.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services Chapel in West Point with the Rev. L.T. Gathings officiating. Burial followed at Yeates Cemetery in West Point. Mr. Jefferson is survived by his father, Benjamin Collins of West Point; mother, Rosie L. Watkins of West Point; daughter, Shamia M. Lewis of Corinth; and sisters, Samantha Watkins of West Point and Sharilyn Jefferson of Booneville.
Ernest D. Perkins
STARKVILLE - Ernest D. Perkins, 39, died May 16, 2009, at his residence. Services are Thursday at 1 p.m. at Mt. Peiler Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Charlie F. Barnes Sr. officiating. Burial will follow at Chickie Hill Cemetery in Center Grove. Visitation is today from noon-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville. Mr. Perkins was born in Oktibbeha County, He was a laborer and a Baptist. He is survived by his sons, Ernest Perkins Jr. and Christopher Perkins, both of Starkville; daughters, Brittany Perkins, Hailey Kennedy and Zoe Perkins, all of Starkville; brothers, Jimmie Perkins of Starkville, Pete Perkins of Columbus and Howard James Duck of Longview, Texas; sisters, Helen Rice of Starkville, Lisa Bradley of Tupelo, Cansandra Brewer of Artesia and Nedra Smith of Columbus; and one grandchild.
William Grady "Bit" Thompson, Sr.
William Grady "Bit" Thompson, Sr., age 84 died May 19, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital Golden Triangle in Columbus. Services will be held at Crawford United Methodist Church on Thursday, May 21, 2009, at 2:00 PM with Dr. Walt Porter officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Limb Cemetery in Crawford. Visitation will be at Memorial Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 20, 2009, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Mr. Thompson was born on January 16, 1925, in Mayhew to the late Talton N. and Sammie Thompson. He was a member of Crawford United Methodist Church. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII from 1943 until 1946 achieving the rating of Motor Machinist Mate First Class. Serving mostly in the South Pacific and the Phillipine Islands. Mr. Thompson served for 24 years on the Lowndes County Board of Supervisors and six of those years as its' president. He also farmed with his son Grady. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his first wife - Edna Ruth Thompson; his brothers - T.N. Thompson Jr., James Thompson, Carlton Thompson, and Jerry Thompson; his sisters - Dora Von Kanel, Bonnie Cooper, and Jean Ervin. Survivors include his wife - Joanie Thompson of Columbus, MS; daughter - Terry Hunter (Walter) of Birmingham, AL; son - Grady Thompson of Crawford, MS; sister - Evelyn East (John) of Columbus, MS; grandchildren - Scott Thompson, Haley Thompson, Kaci Thompson, Austin Bragg, Kayla Hunter and great-grandchild - A.J. Thompson. The pallbearers are Jerry Buchanan, Doug Buchanan, Danny Taylor, Mickey Gentry, Keith Hancock and Larry Edwards.
Louise Bridgeman
ALICEVILLE, Ala. - Louise Bridgeman, 84, died May 17, 2009. Services are Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Aliceville Family Worship Center with the Revs. Rodney Hedrick and Larry Tipton officiating. Burial will follow at Magnolia Memorial Gardens. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at Dogwood Chapel in Aliceville, and the body will be at the church 30 minutes prior to services on Wednesday. Skelton Funeral Home of Reform, Ala., is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Bridgeman was born May 12, 1925, in Walker County, Ala., to the late William Washington Minor and Maude Olive Carney Minor. She was a member of Aliceville Family Worship Center, retired employee of Aliceville Cotton Mill and a well-known resident of Pickens County. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Earl Bridgeman; brothers, Abb, Billy and Harold Minor; sister, Lourine Rylan; and one granddaughter. She is survived by her daughters, Betty Shade of Hannibal, Mo., and Becky Donahue of Chillicothe, Ohio; sons, Pete Puckett of Carrollton, Ala., and Carl Bridgeman of Pickensville, Ala.; brother, the Rev. Hershel Minor of Birmingham, Ala.; eight grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Brian and Mark Pearson, Roy and James Fitch, Charles Rylan, Zeb Fitch and Anthony Akins.
Theodore R. "Ted" Jutman
Theodore R. "Ted" Jutman age 93 died Saturday May 16, 2009 at The Homeplace in Columbus. Visitation was held Sunday May 17, 2009 from 4 until 6 at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbus. Graveside services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Monday, May 18, 2009 at Plantersville Cemetery in Plantersville, MS. A gathering for family and friends will follow the service at the home of Jean Jutman in Plantersville. Mr. Jutman was born on April 8, 1916 in Pittston, PA to the late Andrew and Mary Jutman. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 until 1945. In 1945 he moved to Mississippi and was employed by Southern Airways and later General Tire and Rubber Company. He was a communicant of Annunciation Catholic Church. He volunteered at The Greater Columbus Learning Center and enjoyed reading, golfing, gardening, feeding the birds, and watching Jeopardy. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife Virginia Partlow Jutman, his former mother-in-law Granny "Miss Dena" Partlow, three sisters Mrs. Robert (Mary) Scheideman, Mrs. Raymond (Elizabeth) Sims, Mrs. Michael (Ella) Merlini and one brother, Andy Jutman. He is survived by his wife of 52 years Frances Spruill Jutman of Columbus, his daughter Jean Jutman of Plantersville, MS, his step-daugher Carol Toyama (Nate); three grandchildren Aaron, Bess, and Lucy Toyama of Sacramento, CA; his niece Doris Yager of Utica, NY. He leaves a host of other nieces and nephews, the descendants of the Rusty Yager and Herman and G.C. Partlow families, and two special friends Al and Mary Clarke of Pittston, PA.
Mary Jeane Ellis Marion Ledbetter
AMORY - Mary Jeane Ellis Marion Ledbetter, 83, died May 17, 2009, at Oak Tree Plantation. Services are Thursday at 1 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Dr. Allen Simpson and the Rev. Terry Ledbetter officiating. Burial will follow at Masonic Cemetery in Amory. Visitation is Wednesday from 5-9 p.m. at the funeral home and will continue until service time on Thursday. Mrs. Ledbetter was born Feb. 23, 1926, in Oklahoma City to the late Tom and Della Gorman Ellis. She graduated from Northeast High School in Oklahoma City in 1945. She moved to Amory in 1950. She was a telephone operator during and after World War II in Oklahoma City and worked at Marion Hatchery and Feed Mill, G & Y Drug and Amory Animal Hospital in Amory. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Amory for 59 years where she served as Sunday school teacher, choir member, librarian and in other church activities. She was president of the Amory Wednesday Musical. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Howard Marion Sr.; and two grandchildren. She is survived by her husband, Robert M. Ledbetter of Amory; son, Robert Marion Jr. of Randolph, N.J.; daughters, Rebecca Fields of Powhatan, Va., and Pam Crvich of Salem, Ore.; sister, Jo Anderson of Crescent, Okla.; brothers, Tom Ellis of Dallas and James Ellis of Oklahoma City; stepdaughters, Peggy Parham of Amory, Celia McDonald of Baton Rouge, La., and Karen Tiffin of West Point; stepsons, Mark Ledbetter of Tupelo, Tom Ledbetter of Wilmington, Del., and Terry Ledbetter of Saltillo; five grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; and many stepgreat-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be family members.
Rosie Lee Murray
GREENWOOD SPRINGS - Rosie Lee Murray, 91, died May 17, 2009, at River Place Nursing Center in Amory. Services are Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Norwood Funeral Home Chapel in Sulligent, Ala., with Bro. Danny Stanford and Bro. William E. Clay officiating. Burial will follow at Carter Cemetery in Detroit, Ala. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Murray was born in Lamar County, Ala., to the late George C. and Amanda Jane Sanderson Mosley. She was a Baptist, a homemaker and a resident of the Bethlehem Community most of her life. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Harmon Murray; son, Robert L. Murray; sisters, Gera and Era Cantrell, Annie Mosley, Addie Harris and Fannie Lee Thompson; and brother, Bill Mosley. She is survived by three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be her nephews.
Augusta Sparkman Nettles
Mrs. Augusta Sparkman Nettles, 98, died Friday, May 18, 2009 at Elderly Care Center in Macon, MS. Funeral services will be held Monday, May 18, 2009 at 2 p.m.at Cooksville Methodist Church near Macon. Interment will be held in church cemetery. Visitation will be held Monday one hour prior to the service at the church. The family requests no flowers, please. Cockrell Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Gusta Nettles was born June 21, 1910 in Cooksville, MS to the late James Edwin and Clara Bell Sanders Sparkman. Gusta was the oldest of eight children. She was married to the late Alba Lawrence Nettles of Ada, Oklahoma. Mrs. Nettles was predeceased by her parents, husband, sister Mable S Watt and three brothers, Jake, Marvin, and Harold Sparkman. She is survived by her sister, Dixie S. Walker of Macon and brothers, Frank Sparkman of Coatopa, Ala and Eddie Sparkman of Macon, MS. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Gusta graduated from Cooksville/Paulette High School and MSCW. She managed a tea room in Jackson and Lerner Shops in Jackson and Waco, Texas. Later, she was employed by Noxubee County Human Services and worked there for the remainder of her career. She was an avid gardener, wonderful homemaker, and loved her community and especially her nieces and nephews. She was a member of the Homemaker's Club, United Daughter's of Confederacy, the Cooksville Methodist Church. Gusta was a dedicated member of her church and community serving where she was needed. Gusta will be remembered as a wonderful Christian woman who loved the Lord and her sister and brothers in Christ.
Earlie Lee Sanders
Earlie Lee Sanders, age 89, died May 16, 2009 at The Windsor Place Nursing & Rehab Center in Columbus, MS. Graveside services will be held at Memorial Gardens Cemetery on Wednesday, May 20, 2009 at 1:00 PM with Pastor Ron Thomas officiating. Visitation will be at Memorial Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 19, 2009 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM Mr. Sanders was born on December 11, 1919, in Greenwood Springs, MS, to the late Henry Grady and Trudie Ray Sanders. He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church. He was also a WWII U.S. Army Veteran serving in the South Pacific, and a charter member of the VFW Post #4272 in Columbus. He was a retired salesman for the Russell Wholesale Grocery Company. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife Lois McBride Sanders and his brother Howard Sanders. Survivors include: sons - Earl "Sandy" Sanders (Donna) of Jackson, MS and Mike Sanders (Sylvia) of Hattiesburg, MS; daughter - Melanie Roe (Glenn) of Biloxi, MS; sisters - Mrs. O.A. "Sue" McArthur of Columbus, MS, and Mrs. A.J. "Ruby" Bowie of Holly Springs, MS; grandchildren - Lisa Whisenant (Scott), Angela Davis (Todd), Michael Sanders, Elizabeth Sanders, Marshall Price, John Kellum (Jennifer), Kristopher Kellum, Lauren Alston and Heather Roe; seven great - grandchildren, one nephew; four nieces and former wife - Mildred Sanders.
Jackie C. Pope
STARKVILLE - Jackie C. Pope, 55, died May 13, 2009, at Carrington Nursing Center in Starkville. Services are Tuesday at 1 p.m. at New Prairie Grove MB Church with the Rev. Sam Bonner officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from noon-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Starkville. Mr. Pope was born in Starkville. He was a Baptist. He is survived by his son, O'Mar Jones of Grenada; sister, Queen Ester Pope of Starkville; and brothers, Bernard, Nathaniel and Rodney Pope, all of Starkville.
Annie B. Amos
WEST POINT - Annie B. Amos, 88, died May 12, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center in West Point. Services are Monday at 10 a.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services Chapel with Jessie Westbrooks officiating. Burial will follow at the Poole's Memorial Gardens in West Point. Visitation is today from 3-6 p.m. at the funeral home. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sons, Sam Marshall Amos and Phillmore Amos; and daughter, Melinda Robinson. She is survived by her sons, Tessie Amos of Birmingham, Ala., John Henry Robinson of Starkville, Robert Amos and Wayne Robinson, both of West Point; daughters, Miniimah Hasain of Memphis, Tenn., and Patricia Robinson of West Point; 34 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
Gerald Wayne Collums
ABITA SPRINGS, La. - Gerald Wayne Collums, 58, died May 14, 2009, at his residence. Services are Monday at 11 a.m. at E.J. Fielding Funeral Home in Covington, La., with the Rev. Flint Shea and Stan Flint officiating. Visitation is Monday two hours prior to services at the funeral home. Mr. Collums was born July 31, 1950, in Charleston. He was a 1968 graduate of Stephen D. Lee High School in Columbus. He was preceded in death by his mother, Kathleen Reid Collums. He is survived by his father, Curtis Caryle Collums; and family, Carl, Hal, Paula, Larry, Terri, Leah, Farrah and Reid.
Carey Williams Matthews
WEST POINT - Carey Williams Matthews, 46, died May 11, 2009, at the Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Monday at 2:30 p.m. at Union Star Missionary Baptist Church in West Point. Burial will follow at church cemetery. Visitation is today from 3-6 p.m. at the Carter's Mortuary Services Chapel in West Point. He was preceded in death by his mother, Georgia Lee Manning. He is survived by his father, Mack Henry White Manning of Chicago; son, Cary Williams Matthews Edwards of West Point; daughter, Regina Lafay Matthews Walker of West Point; brothers, Johnny Matthews of Starkville, Sanders Matthews of Chicago, and James Matthews Jr. of Wind Heaven, Fla.; sisters, Lucille Blair and Flora Henderson, both of Starkville, Jettie Pearl Collins, Shirley Matthews and Mary L. Edwards, all of West Point, and Rosies Matthews of Chicago; and three grandchildren.
Augusta Sparkman Nettles
COOKSVILLE - Augusta Sparkman Nettles, 98, died May 15, 2009, at the Elderly Care Center in Macon. Services are Monday at 2 p.m. at Cooksville United Methodist Church with Glen Miller officiating. Burial will follow at Cooksville Cemetery in Macon. Visitation is Monday one hour prior to service at the church. Cockrell Funeral Home of Macon is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Nettles was born June 21, 1910, in Cooksville to the late James Edwin and Clara Belle Sanders Sparkman. She graduated from Cooksville/Paulette High School and Mississippi State College for Women. She managed a tea room in Jackson and Lerner Shops in Jackson and Waco, Texas. She was later employed by Noxubee County Human Services. She was a member of Homemaker's Club, United Daughters of the Confederacy and the Cooksville Methodist Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Alba Lawrence Nettles; sister, Mable S. Watt; brothers, Jake, Marvin and Harold Sparkman. She is survived by her sister, Dixie S. Walker of Macon; brothers, Frank Sparkman of Coatopa, Ala., and Eddie Sparkman of Macon.
Barbara R. Moore Nix
Barbara R. Moore Nix, 59, died Tuesday, May 12th, 2009, at University Medical Center in Jackson, MS. Visitation will be held Sunday, May 17th at Chancellor Funeral Home in Florence, MS, from 1 - 3pm with chapel service at 3pm. Burial will follow at the Garden of Memories, Chancellor Funeral Home. Ms. Nix was born September 6th, 1949, in Vardaman, MS, to her parents Leon S. Moore and Willie Jean Moore Stafford. She grew up in the Big Creek and Calhoun City areas before moving to West Point, MS, where she graduated high school. She moved to and lived in the Jackson, MS area before moving to Florence, MS, where she lived for the rest of her life. Barbara was formerly married to James A. Bramlett of West Point, MS and John Jefferson Nix of Bruce, MS. She loved her two sons, David and Johnny, dearly. She received a degree in Criminal Justice from Hinds Community College. She worked at the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks for 13 years in Boat Registration and at the Department of Public Safety for 11 years in the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation as Senior Criminal Analyst. Barbara loved her work in Investigation. She was of Baptist Faith. Barbara is survived by her sons James David Bramlett of Hattiesburg, MS and John Wayne Nix of Pearl, MS; her sister Jeanne and brother-in-law Jerry Lantrip Sr. of West Point, MS; and niece Tammy Lantrip of Philadelphia, MS. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leon S. Moore and Willie Jean Moore Stafford, stepfather Leo Stafford, and nephew Jerry Lantrip, Jr. The family of Barbara Nix would like to thank the staff of University Medical Center and Mississippi Baptist Medical Center, her friends and her co-workers. The family would like to especially recognize Dr. Wade Banker and the Interventive Radiology staff, Margaret Holmes, Maj. Larry Waggoner, Maj. Stanley Sisk, Linda Sullivan, Maxine Daniels, Judy Huggins, Helen Skinner, Florence Gaines, Tabitha Batton, Jimmy Laird, and Wes Luckey.
Lewis H. Thompson
SMITHVILLE - Lewis H. Thompson, 87, died May 15, 2009, at the Riverplace Nursing Center in Amory. Services are today at 2 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel with Hoyet Hathcock and Mickey Beam officiating. Burial will follow at Maxey Cemetery. Visitation is today and will continue until service time at the funeral home. Mr. Thompson was born Jan. 10, 1922, in Smithville to the late Condie Lee and Vangie Bennett Thompson. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II. He was retired from Monroe Trouser and was a member of the Smithville Church of Christ. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Helen Ross; sons, Howell, Benny, and Darwin Thompson; daughters, Susan Elam and Kelly Thompson. He is survived by his daughters, Dannis Mason, Vickie Weatherbee, Allene Morgan and Kathy Baucom, all of Smithville; sister, Jeanette Roche of Smithville; 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Brad, Clay and Chad Thompson, Cayce Carter, Jody Powell, Derek Thompson, Shaun Kinsey and Wesley Hacker.
Neal Hunter Smith
Prairie-Neal Hunter Smith, 92, died May 14 at NMMC-West Point. Services will be May 16, 2pm from Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, Rev. Steve Lampkin officiating. The body will lie at the church from 1-2pm. Burial will follow in Cantrell Cemetery. Visitation will be May 15, 5-8pm at Calvert Funeral Home of West Point, which is handling the arrangements. Mr. Smith was born Jan. 6, 1917 in Prairie, the seventh son of the late Jake Gatman Smith & Francis Eugene Henley Smith, and was a farmer. He had worked for B&W, and T.V.A, and was a member of Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church. He retired from the 31st Dixie Division of the MS National Guard with 32 years service., and was a veteran of WWII, serving in the US Army, 155th and the 124th Infantry. He had participated in the campaigns in the SW Pacific and was a Bronze Star & Purple Heart recipient. Mr. Smith was a member of American Legion Post # 38, and the Aberdeen VFW, and was preceded in death by his sons, Rex & Raymond Smith; great grandson, Daniel Ryan Howell; and brothers, Lawson Smith, Jasper Smith, Gene Smith, Sonny Smith, L. E. "Tump" Smith, & Hendon Smith. He is survived by his wife, Mary E. Smith; daughter, Patsy Jean Howell (Randy); son, Neal Ray Smith (Linda), all of Prairie; grandchildren, Rachelle Gwathney (Anthony), Tasha Rhea (Shane), Neal Smith (Emily), Courtney Smith (Adam), Helen Howell (Lee), Ronald Howell (Wendy) & Shawn Howell (Connie); 16 great grandchildren, Meagan Gwathney, Kaylee Rhea, Mitchell Smith, Justin McVey, Jacob Vowell, Shane Howell, Matthew Gwathney, Maggie Gwathney, Molly Kate Todd, McKennon Amos Todd, Faith Coggins, Alaina Howell, Joshua Howell, Tanner Howell, Jackie Bryant, III & Jadyn Bryant. Pallbearers will be Laddie Huffman, Wayne Crosswhite, Dennis Petit, Larry Brasfield, Bud Henley & Clark Baker.
Minnie Ruth Alexander
WEST POINT - Minnie Ruth Alexander, 51, died May 11, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-West Point. Services are Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in West Point with the Rev. Carlos Orr officiating. Burial will follow at Gospel Temple Cemetery in West Point. Visitation is Saturday from 3-6 p.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services Chapel in West Point. Ms. Alexander is survived by her daughters, Denise Alexander, Riconda Gathings and Alfreda Alexander, all of West Point; brother, Henry James Alexander of Pontiac, Mich.; and four grandchildren.
Robert "Scrape" Ferguson
STARKVILLE - Robert "Scrape" Ferguson, 58, died May 11, 2009, at his residence. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at New Prairie Grove Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. Eddie Hinton officiating. Burial will follow at Bell Chapel Church Cemetery in Starkville. Visitation is today from noon-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Starkville. Mr. Ferguson was born in Oktibbeha County. He is survived by his sons, Stanley Dancer of Roundrock, Texas, and Robert Ware of Starkville; daughters, Priscilla Brand of Jonesboro, Ga., and Wanda Evans of Starkville; mother, Ora Lee Ferguson of Starkville; sisters, Rose and Linda Ferguson and Mary Deloach, all of Starkville; brothers, Daniel, Darrell and Andrew Ferguson, all of Starkville, and Henry Ferguson of Columbus; and 12 grandchildren.
Doris Hargrove
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - Doris Hargrove, 91, died May 13, 2009, at Druid City Hospital-Tuscaloosa. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Gunter & Peel Funeral Home in Columbus with the Rev. Ron McDougal officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Vernon Cemetery in Columbus. Visitation is Saturday for one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Mrs. Hargrove was born Oct. 9, 1917, in Hattiesburg to the late Frank Sexton and Louise Byrd Glenn. She was a resident of Pine Valley Independent Living of Tuscaloosa. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Ann Hargrove Dove. She is survived by her husband, Allen S. Hargrove Jr. of Tuscaloosa; and two grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Riggie and Allen Dove, Chad Dehner, Sam Moss and Bob and Geoff Glenn.
Ronald Franklin Harton
KENNEDY, Ala. - Ronald Franklin Harton, 52, died May 12, 2009, at Hospice of West Alabama. Services are Monday at 11 a.m. at New Grove Baptist Church with the Rev. Michael Brock officiating. Burial will follow at Kennedy Community Cemetery. The body will be at the church one hour prior to services on Monday. Dowdle Funeral Home of Millport, Ala., is in charge of arranagements. Mr. Harton was preceded in death by his father, Jimmy Harton Sr. He is survived by his mother, Annie Ruth Harton of Kennedy; sisters, Sandra Washington of Gordo, Ala., and Carolyn Broady of Fayette, Ala.; brothers, Jimmy Harton Jr. of Hookerton, N.C., Marcus Harton of Redsville, Ga., and Donald and Ricky Harton, both of Kennedy.
Mary Ada Turnipseed
STARKVILLE - Mary Ada Turnipseed, 62, died May 12, 2009, at Starkville Manor Nursing Home. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Truevine MB Church in Starkville with the Rev. Gregory Mostella officiating. Burial will follow at Sykes Cemetery. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Starkville. Ms. Turnipseed was born in Oktibbeha County. She was a Baptist. She is survived by her sister, Rebella Bash of Starkville; and brothers, Johnny and Jessie Turnipseed, both of Starkville, and Jimmy C. Turnipseed of St. Louis.
Albert Watford, Jr.
Albert Watford, Jr., 72, died May 9, 2009, at Aurora Nursing Home. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Mt. Ary MB Church in Brooksville with the Rev. James Malone officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 3-8 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Mr. Watford was born March 17, 1937, in Noxubee County to the late Albert Watford Sr. and Mandy Cockrell Watford. He was employed with D.S. McCunningham & Sons for 44 years. He was a member of Mt. Ary MB Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sons, Lyndon Stalling and Christopher Watford; sister, Velma Givens; and wife, Audrey Watford. He is survived by his children, Albert Watford III of Jackson, Richard Stalling of Chicago, Pamela Stalling of Crawford and Melissa Watford of Columbus; sisters, Louise Mosley of Crawford, Sarah Chandler of Columbus and Lillie Watford of Kankakee, Ill.; brothers, Sam Watford of Crawford, Henry Watford of Indianapolis, and Jimmy and David Watford, both of Kankakee; seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Pallbearers will be his nephews.
Frances Adams Weatherly
ABERDEEN - Frances Adams Weatherly, 77, died May 13, 2009, at Gilmore Memorial Hospital-Amory. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Aberdeen with Bro. Robert Earl Fowlkes officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Ms. Weatherly was born Jan. 14, 1932, in Aberdeen to the late Pete and Willie Tate Adams. She was a lifelong resident of Aberdeen. She worked as a caregiver and a seamstress at Sharp Garment. She attended two years at Itawamba Junior College in Tupelo. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by several sisters and brothers. She is survived by her daughter, Sheila Harvey of Aberdeen; son, Gary Smith of Starkville; sisters, Mae Owen of Aberdeen and Gladys Hanson of West Columbia, Texas; brother, Walter Adams of Amory; two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Charles Williams
Charles Williams, 84, died May 9, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Stephen Chapel MB Church with the Rev. Joe L. Peoples officiating. Burial will follow at Union Cemetery. Visitation is today from 3-8 p.m. with family hours from 6-8 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Mr. Williams was born Sept. 16, 1924, in Leake County to the late Eliza Williams Ousley and Newton Williams. He has been the owner of 10th Avenue Body Shop since 1948. He was a deacon of Stephen Chapel MB Church and a member of VFW Local Post #7341 and American Legion. He was a Mason and had served in the U.S. Navy. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sons, Curtis, Stephen and Lloyd Wayne Williams; and brother, Lenox Boone. He is survived by his wife, Hazel Frances Walls Williams; sons, Gregory Williams of Houston, Texas, Charles E. and Sherman Douglas Williams, both of Chicago, Ervin Williams of Atlanta and Montgomery Williams of Jackson; daughters, Florence Burr of Steens, Frances Russell of Atlanta, Erma Stephen of Crestview, Fla., and Hazel Stephens of Smyrna, Ga.; brother, A.G. Williams of East St. Louis, Ill.; 22 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.
Ruthie Diane Gill
West Point-Ruthie Diane Gill, 50, died May 13 at her residence. Services will be May 15, 2pm at Robinson Chapel, Rev. Mike Hunter officiating. Burial will follow in Palestine Cemetery. Robinson Funeral Home of West Point is handling the arrangements. Mrs. Gill was born Sept. 2, 1958 in Visalia, CA, and was a member of Christ United Methodist Church in West Point. She was a day care teacher for several years. She is survived by her husband, John Gill of West Point; son, Benjamin Davis of Starkville; daughters, Tawana Bauer of Kosciusko, Candice Thomas of Pheba, Delta Nichols of Coffeeville & Dyandra Gill of West Point; brothers, Joe Mathis, Wayne Mathis & Steve Mathis of West Point; step-father, Lowell Walker of West Point; grandchildren, Billy Triston Gill, John Colton Gill, Kaylee Elizabeth Bauer, Alyson Elise Thompas, John Tyler Bauer & John Paul Gill; and a host of nieces & nephews.
Mary Frances McCaleb
Mary Frances McCaleb, 93, died May 13 at BMH-GT. Graveside services will be held May 16, 11am at Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Rev. Ron Thomas & Rev. Gary Walker officiating. Burial will follow next to her husband, the late Woodrow Wilson McCaleb following the service at Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Mrs. McCaleb was born Dec. 4, 1915 in Columbus to the late Charles Albert & Jessie Ann McCrary McKellar. She served Columbus Hospital as the Executive Director of Housekeeping, retiring after 20 years. She was a member of East End Baptist Church, where her grandmother McCrary had been one of the founding members; and was predeceased by her husband, Woodrow; brothers, Edward, Buck, J.W. & Charles A. Mckellar, Jr.; and a sister, Ethel Ann Williams. She is survived by her son, Dr. Fred W. McCaleb of Columbus; daughter, Gail McCaleb Willis (Don) of Dunedin, FL; brother, William McKellar of Columbus; sister, Ada Jean Massey of Columbus; grandchildren, William Stewart McCaleb of Rockport, TX, Karen Willis Collington ( Bob) of Tampa, FL & Richard Davis Willis ( Martha) of Clearwater, FL; and great grandchildren, Angel McCaleb, Scott Collington & Rachael Willis.
Vergie L. Whitfield
ARTESIA - Vergie L. Whitfield, 88, died May 7, 2009, in Artesia. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Beulah Grove Full Gospel Baptist Church in Artesia with the Rev. Willie Ellis officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 3-8 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Mrs. Whitfield was born April 24, 1921, in Artesia to the late Levi Randle and Corine Branch. She was a lifelong member of Beulah Grove MB Church and served as a church treasurer. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John D. Whitfield Sr.; son, John D. Whitfield Jr.; daughters, Johnnie Orr, Lillie Roumo, Mildred Harris and Irma Givens; sisters, Pearl Kennedy and Dianah Colster; brother, David Crawford; and two grandchildren. She is survived by her son, Charles Williams Jr. of Newark, N.J.; daughter, Shirley Whitfield of San Antonio; sister, Mattie Johnson of Columbus; brother, Robert Branch of CoCoa, Fla.; 20 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren and 23 great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Unterrio, Shunta, Jamarri, Jaray, Marquette, Anthony, Mendes and Tremayne Givens.
Hampton Couchman, Jr.
BIRMINGHAM - Edward Hampton “Hank” Couchman, Jr., 81, died Wednesday, May 13, 2009 at Brookwood Medical Center in Birmingham. Services will be held Saturday May 16, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Minister Joel Ellis officiating. Burial will follow at Friendship Cemetery. Visitation will be held Friday May 15, 2009 from 6 until 8 at the funeral home. Mr. Couchman was born July 6, 1927 in Columbus to the late Edward Hampton and Minette Townsend Couchman Sr., and lived most of his life there. He was a 1949 graduate of the University of Alabama. He retired from Merchants and Farmers Bank (now Trustmark) in 1989 after 40 years. He was a long-time member of the East Columbus church of Christ, and served the congregation as an elder for more than 30 years. For the past three years he had been a member of the Cahaba Heights Church of Christ in Birmingham. He was active in civic and youth recreational programs in Columbus for many years. Mr. Couchman is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Janet Pickett Couchman; three sons, Tom Couchman (Charlotte) of Denver, CO; Bill Couchman (Melinda) and Bo Couchman (Teresa) of Birmingham; two daughters, Judy Smiley (Mike) of Alexandria, VA, and Liza Dyer (John) of Raleigh, NC; nine grandchildren, and three nieces. Pallbearers will be grandsons Nicholas Couchman, Zach Couchman, Andrew Couchman, Will Couchman, Curt Couchman, Jonathan Smiley, David Felman, and Greg Wiggins (grandson-in-law).
Gayle Smith Williamson
West Point-Gayle Smith Williamson, 55, died May 12 at her residence in Starkville.
Services will be May 14, 2pm from Calvert Funeral Home Chapel, Bro. Tim Buchanan
officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Garden Cemetery in West Point.
Visitation will be May 13, 5-8pm at Calvert Funeral Home of West Point, which is handling
the arrangements. Mrs. Williamson was born Dec. 24, 1953 in Chickasaw Co. to the late
Annie Jean Moore Smith & Bryant Lathrage Smith, Sr., and was a member of the Church of
Christ. She was a graduate of EMCC and was currently a Nurse, having worked for
NMMC-Eupora and Presbyterian Manor in Topeka, KS. She is survived by daughters,
Mindy Williamson Ferguson (Eric) of Starkville & Samantha Williamson of Columbus;
son, Charles Williamson, Jr. (Amber) of Starkville; grandchildren, Skyler & Slade
Ferguson, and Trey & Brayleigh Williamson; sisters, Pam Crosswhite of Prairie &
Tammy Collier of Columbus; brothers, Bryant L. Smith, Jr. of Gulfport & Mike Weeks
of Columbus; and several nieces & nephews. Pallbearers will be Tim Boatner, Wayne
Crosswhite, Gregg Collier, Shane Collier, Mark Caldwell & Daniel Ferguson.
Jack Veral Cox
AMORY - Jack Veral Cox, 83, died May 9, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Services are today at 2 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Bro. Mac Phillips officiating. Burial will follow at Haughton Memorial Park. Visitation will continue until service time at the funeral home. Mr. Cox was born June 15, 1925, in Nettleton to the late John Marcus and Edna Pearl Butrum Cox. He had worked at International Harvester and Fowlkes Ford, was co-owner of C & M Garage with Denley Mobley, and retired as supervisor of Monroe County Landfill. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II serving in the South Pacific. He was a member of the American Legion and VFW, and he was a Mason. He was a member of Becker Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Otis, Leslie, Eulus, Jude, Hollis and Leander Cox; sisters, Lena Robinson, Hazel Schweikert and Mammie Berryman. He is survived by his wife , Ruby Jewel Jones Cox of Amory; daughter, Beverly Hamilton of Amory; two grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Brad Hamilton, Billy Cox, Bobby Hill, Ricky and Brian Mobley, and Billy and Jimmy Kirkpatrick.
Glenn Roy Franklin, Sr.
VERNON, Ala. - Glenn Roy Franklin, Sr., 63, died May 3, 2009, at his residence. Services were Friday at 6 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home in Vernon with Dan Duncan officiating. Burial followed at Furnace Hill Cemetery in Vernon. Mr. Franklin was born May 30, 1945, in Birmingham, Ala. He was a truck driver and a veteran. He was preceded in death by his father, Walter M. Franklin; and brothers, Jerry Wayne, W.M., Marvin Emmett and Rayburn Franklin. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Franklin of Vernon; sons, Glenn Roy Franklin of Vernon and Walter Allen Franklin of Hamilton, Ala.; daughters, Gale McDill of Caledonia, Rachel Edgeworth of Mantachie, Laura Franklin of Fayette, Ala., and Victoria Franklin of Caledonia; mother, Ruth Bolin; brothers, Donald Eads of Arkansas, Harold Bolin, James K. Bolin Jr. and Troy and Richard Wilson, all of Columbus; sisters, Brenda Rodgers of Birmingham, Ala., and Kay Watts, Linda Bolin, Shirley Gilmore and Yvonne Hearn, all of Columbus; and 12 grandchildren. Pallbearers were Lance Hearn, Eric Smith, Scott Van, Clyde Murdock, James Phelps, Richard Wilson Jr. and Roy Franklin Jr.
Jordan Kirk Lindsey
NETTLETON - Jordan Kirk Lindsey, 23, died May 11, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Services are Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Nettleton First Baptist Church with the Revs. Randy Berry, Wayne Higgins and Tommy Ray Dabbs officiating. Burial will follow at Jones Chapel Cemetery. Visitation is today from 5-9 p.m. at Nettleton First Baptist Church. Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home in Nettleton is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Lindsey was born March 5, 1986, in Tupelo. He was a lifelong resident of Nettleton where he was a member of Nettleton First Baptist Church. He was a 2004 graduate of Nettleton High School and a 2008 graduate of Itawamba Community College-Fulton. He was a full-time student at University Medical Center in Jackson. He was employed as a registered radiologic technologist at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. He is survived by his parents, Douglas Kirk Lindsey and Kathy Tucker Lindsey of Nettleton; sister, Blair Patterson of Nettleton; brother, Kyle Lindsey of Nettleton; fianc-, Ashley Stanford of Guntown; and grandparents, John and Betty Tucker of Nettleton, Sarah Lindsey of Verona and Harold and Clara Lindsey of Nettleton. Pallbearers will be Phil Senter, Ryan Clayton, Ty and Tyler Humble, Brian Smith, Luke Adkins, Zach Green and Jonathan Collier.
Helen Whitworth Odom
Helen Whitworth Odom, 87, of Columbus, MS, died Sunday, May 10, 2009 at Rush Hospital in Meridian, MS. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will be Tuesday, May 12, 2009, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Memorial Funeral Home. Services will be Wednesday, May 13, 2009, at 10:00 AM in the chapel of Memorial Funeral Home with Dr. Shawn Parker and Rev. Ron McDougald officiating. Mrs. Odom will be buried next to her husband, the late Billy M. Odom at 1:00 PM Wednesday at the Pontotoc City Cemetery, in Pontotoc, MS. Mrs. Odom was born on Sunday, July 24, 1921, in Pontotoc, MS to the late John Harvey and Gladys Tutor Whitworth. A longtime resident of Columbus, Mrs. Odom was a member of First Baptist Church, where she was also a member of Eloise Crossley's Sunday school class. She was also a member of Soroptomists International, Columbus Music Study Club and the Galaxy Garden Club. She retired from Mills-Morris Auto Parts, where she was the bookkeeper. She was predeceased by her parents, her brothers Hendon Whitworth and John H. Whitworth, Jr. and her husband, Billy M. Odom. She is survived by her daughter, Ginger O. McKay and her husband Billy of Cantonment, FL; granddaughter - Jennifer Peavey and great grandson Aiden Chittapagna both of Watkinsville, GA . Pallbearers will be Dave Taylor, Bill Brigham, Burk Harpole, Thomas Southerland, Steve Galloway and Dean Green.
Elona Mendrop Sams
Elona Mendrop Sams age 91, died May 9, 2009 at the Windsor in Columbus, MS. Mrs. Sams was born on January 19, 1918, in Hollandale, Mississippi to the late Eldon Richard and Beulah Irene Golden Mendrop. Services will be held Tuesday May 12, 2009, at 3:00 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Shawn Parker officiating. Burial will follow at Friendship Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior at the funeral home. Mrs. Sams was a life-long teacher. She was Librarian at Franklin Academy from 1964- 1979. She was a member of First Baptist Church. She was member and president of her Sunday School Class, Stephen D. Lee Chapter 34 of UDC, Peyton Study Club and Flora Pena Garden Club, and member of Thimble Ten Sewing Club. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by husbands Robert Harold Jackson and Joe O. Sams, Sr. Survivors include two children, Bob Jackson (Jennie) of Weatherford, Texas and Golden Jackson-Mergler (Norwin) of Columbus, Ohio; four grandchildren, Lee Anne Jackson, Sarah E. Jackson, Eldon Mergler and Samuel Mergler; and two great-grandchildren, Peyton Cole and Bryce Cole. She is also survived by her brother, Richard G. Mendrop (Tina) of Colorado Springs and Mesa, Arizona, and several nieces and nephews.
Mittie Sanderson
GUIN, Ala. - Mittie Sanderson, 91, died May 11, 2009, at Sunset Manor in Guin. Services are Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Otts Funeral Home Chapel in Sulligent, Ala., with Bro. Glenn Hughes officiating. Burial will follow at Barnesville Cemetery near Hamilton, Ala. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Sanderson was born June 29, 1917, in Marion County, Ala., to the late Frank Emerson and Esther Wiggington Emerson Killingsworth. She was a Baptist and a homemaker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Thurston V. Sanderson; sisters, Katie Shotts, Virgie Stone and Ruthie Emerson; brothers, Morgan, Orville, Coston, Molton and Cecil Emerson; and one great-grandchild. She is survived by her sons, Bobby Sanderson of Winfield, Ala., Lendle Sanderson of Beaverton, Ala., and Q.T. Sanderson of Detroit, Ala.; daughter, Wilma Jean Oliver of Rogersville, Ala.; nine grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.
Ernest Chester Graham
GORDO, Ala. - Ernest Chester Graham, 82, died May 9, 2009, at Pickens County Medical Center. Services were today at 11 a.m. at Bethesda Presbyterian Church with Dr. Vernon Blackburn and the Rev. Billy Broadhead officiating. Burial followed at the church cemetery. Skelton Funeral Home of Reform, Ala., was in charge of arrangements. Mr. Graham was born March 9, 1927, in Benevola, Ala., to the late Ernest Oliver and Berta Lewis Graham. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II in Germany, and he retired after fulfilling his military career from the Alabama National Guard as a sergeant major. He was a retired mechanic for Graham Chevrolet in Aliceville, Ala., and also a teacher for LaDow Vocational School. He was a member of Bethesda Presbyterian Church where he served as a church elder and on the church presbytery. He was a local handyman in Benevola community. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Mahala Yarbrough and Joy Carr; and an infant brother. He is survived by his wife, Emily Ann Powell Graham of Benevola; daughter, Mary Kate Duffy of Benevola; son, Lawrence Graham of Auburn, Ala.; and three grandchildren.
Claudine Elmore Essary Hopkins
REFORM, Ala. - Claudine Elmore Essary Hopkins, 86, died May 8, 2009, at Morning Pointe Assisted Living. Services are Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Skelton Funeral Home Chapel in Reform with Dr. Sam Andreasen officiating. Burial will follow at Greenhill Memorial Gardens. Visitation is Tuesday immediately following services. Mrs. Hopkins was born Oct. 16, 1922, in Pickens County, Ala., to the late James Victor Elmore and Mary Elizabeth Sudduth Elmore. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Reform, a homemaker and a lifelong resident of Pickens County. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, Woodie Essary and Harvey Hopkins; daughter, Linda Essary Gault; sister, Earline Shackleford; and brother, Kirt Elmore. She is survived by her daughter, Sheila Essary Kirkpatrick of Northport, Ala.; sister, Gaye Latham of Carrollton, Ala.; three grandchildren and two great-grandsons.
Elota Bell Cannon Knight
AMORY - Elota Bell Cannon Knight, 92, died May 9, 2009, at Riverplace Nursing Center in Amory. Graveside services are today at 1:30 p.m. at Liberty Cemetery with Bro. Tommy Whaley officiating. E.E. Pickle Funeral Home of Amory is in charge of the arrangements. Mrs. Knight was born March 15, 1917, in Itawamba County to the late James William and Lela Bell Nichols Cannon. Before her retirement, she was a seamstress for Glenn Manufacturing. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Dewey Knight; and siblings, Quannah McIntosh, Eva Hartung, Corrine Morgan, and Vardie, Vonnie and Armon Cannon.
Rilla J. Knight
DETROIT, Ala. - Rilla J. Knight, 88, died May 8, 2009, at River Place Nursing Home in Amory. Services are today at 2 p.m. at the Wesley Chapel Methodist Church with Bro. Dalton Eason officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation was Saturday from 6-8 p.m. at Norwood Funeral Home Chapel. Ms. Knight was born in Marion County to the late Etney and Lillian Jeffreys Belk. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Flois Basil Knight. She was a member of Wesley Chapel Methodist Church were she taught a youth Sunday school class. She retired from Detroit Slacks as a seamstress. She is survived by her sons, Malone Knight and Gary Knight, both of Greenwood Springs; sisters, Evelyn Lines of Savannah, Ga., and Rachael Prothro of Detroit; three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Tim Otts, Dwight and Lee Knight, Chris Jackson, Kelly and Edward Prothro.
Leotis Pate
PHEBA - Leotis Pate, 75, died May 8, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo. Services are Monday at 11 a.m. at Pine Bluff Baptist Church with Bro. Joe Curtis Stallings officiating. The body will lie in state from 10 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at Calvert Funeral Home. Mr. Pate was born March 15, 2009, in Clay County, to the late Lela Murlee Watson Pate and Clinton Calvin Pate. He worked in farming as a welder, timberman, and cattle farmer He served in the U.S. Army, 101st Airborne Paratrooper. He was a member of Pine Bluff Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Calvin Pate; and two grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Patsy Fay Edwards Pate of Pheba; daughter, Teressa P. Harpole of Cedar Bluff; son, Kenneth Calvin Pate of Pheba; brothers, James Wilburn Pate of Fairview, Tenn., and Glenn Allen Pate of Pheba; three grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Pallbearers will be Robert Champion, Ray Kratz, Billy Wooten and all the friends in the community.
Rickey James Peoples
LOS ANGELES - Rickey James Peoples, 56, died May 2, 2009, in Los Angeles. Local services are Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Stephen Chapel MB Church with the Rev. Peoples officiating. Burial will follow at Union Cemetery. Visitation is Tuesday from 3-5 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Columbus. Mr. Peoples was born Dec. 7, 1952, in Columbus. He was a 1970 graduate of R.E. Hunt High School and a member of Stephen Chapel MB Church. He was a supervisor of Distribution Operations Tour II in Los Angeles Processing and Distribution Center at Airport Station. He was preceded in death by his father, Luther James Peoples. He is survived by his mother, Leola Peoples; sons, Ryan and Rayburn Van Peoples; sister, Linda Joyce Sykes; brothers, Willie, Carl and Tony Peoples; and two grandchildren. Pallbearers will be friends of Robert E. Hunt High School Class of 1970.
James Earl Sprayberry
DUCK HILL - James Earl Sprayberry, 70, died May 6, 2009, at Regional Medical Center in Memphis, Tenn. Services were Saturday at 2 p.m. at Bradford Chapel Baptist Church with the Revs. T.J. Murphy and Jon Haimes officiating. Burial followed at the church cemetery. Pryor Funeral Home were in charge of arrangements. Mr. Sprayberry was born May 14, 1938, in Webster County to the late James Arthur Sprayberry and Mary Allen Sledge Sprayberry. He was a Mason with McKey Lodge No. 488 in Slate Springs. He was a member of Bradford Chapel Baptist Church and was a veteran of the Army National Guard. He is survived by his wife, Sharon Grace Sorenson Sprayberry of Duck Hill; daughters, Rachel Allen Sprayberry White of Crosby, Texas., and Gwendolyn Sprayberry Lordeon of Sabougla; sons, James Ellis Sprayberry of Eupora, and Earl Denton Sprayberry of Sabougla; sisters, Belinda Allen Sprayberry Murphy of Columbus, and Martha Sue Sprayberry Rodgers of Calhoun City; seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be grandsons and nephews.
Lessie Thomas
REFORM, Ala. - Lessie Thomas, 72, died May 8, 2009, at her residence. Services are Monday at 2 p.m. at Skelton Funeral Home with the Revs. Jeff Long, Keith Crowley and Jeremy Newell officiating. Burial will follow at Greenhill Memorial Gardens. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Thomas was born Sept. 12, 1936, in Tuscaloosa County, Ala., to the late Melvin and Elizabeth Bigham Smith. She attended Carrollton Church of God. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jesse Lee Thomas; brothers, T.J., J.C. and Dawson Smith. She is survived by her daughters, Mary E. Newell and Charlotte Keith; sons, Ronald, James and Wayne Thomas; sisters, Patricia Adams, Vaugdean Switch, Bobby Bates, Joann Parker, Betty Cook and Ivy Bizzell; brothers, Melvin, Avin, Raymond, Rayford, Wesley and Bobby Smith; 23 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and eight great-great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Jeremy and Adam Newell, Micheal and Drew Thomas, Dustin Beams and Justin Woolbright.
Alma R. Thompson
SMITHVILLE - Alma R. Thompson, 92, died May 8, 2009, at Riverplace Nursing Center in Amory. Services are Monday at 11 a.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Smithville with Bro. Jimmy Mathis officiating. Burial will follow at Young Memorial Gardens. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. and will continue until service time on Monday at the funeral home. Mrs. Thompson was born July 20, 1916, in Lamar County, Ala., to the late John H. and Lona Odell Harris Ray. She was a homemaker and a Baptist. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer Murry Thompson; and brothers, John Paul, Willie and Dennis Ray. Pallbearers will be Greg Kennedy, Ira Kennedy, Dewey Hannon Jr., Matt Hannon, Jody Powell and T.J. Armstrong.
Mable S. Watt
Cooksville - Mable S. Watt, 96, died May 8, 2009, at Elderly Care Center in Macon. Services will be Monday at Cooksville United Methodist Church with Bro. Glen Miller officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is at 1 p.m. at the church. Cockrell Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Watt was born Aug. 7, 1912, in Cooksville to the late James Edwin and Clara Bell Sanders Sparkman. She graduated from Mississippi State University with a master's degree in education. She retired from the Noxubee County Schools as an elementary teacher. She was a member of Cooksville United Methodist Church where she was a children's Sunday school teacher. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Jake, Marvin and Harold Sparkman; and her husband, Joseph E. Watt Jr. She was survived by her daughter, Clara W. Green of Macon; sisters, Augusta S. Nettles and Dixie S. Walker, both of Macon; brothers, Frank S. Sparkman of Coatopa, Ala., and Eddie G. Sparkman of Macon; two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Sally Buckley Welch
RULEVILLE - Sally Buckley Welch, 85, died May 7, 2009, at Sanctuary Hospice House in Tupelo.† Graveside services are today at 3 p.m. at Lehrton Cemetery in Ruleville with Robert Rawson officiating. Visitation is today from 1-2:30 p.m. at Ray Funeral Home of Cleveland.† Mrs. Welch was born on Sept. 1, 1923, in Webster County. She was a member of the Church of Christ. She is preceded in death by her first husband, Robert Buckley; parents, Naldo and Ruby Williams; and one sister. She is survived by her husband, Charlie Welch of Ruleville; sons, Dr. Bob Buckley of Columbus and Brad Buckley of Cayucos, Calif.; daughters, Kathy Cassetty of South Fulton, Tenn., and Gail Cole of Tupelo; sister, Sue Williams of Greenwood; stepsons, Wayne, Ronnie and George Welch; 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Walter "Bud" Williams
JASPER, Ala. - Walter "Bud" Williams, 77, died May 6, 2009, at Walker Baptist Medical Center-Jasper. Graveside services were Friday at 2 p.m. at Webb Cemetery in Beaverton, Ala. Otts Funeral Home of Sulligent, Ala., was in charge of arrangements. Mr. Williams was born Sept. 6, 1931, in Jackson County, Ala., to the late Clyde E. and Kelsie Bell Williams. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served during the Korean Conflict. He had previously worked for Boeing in Wichita, Kan., and had previously lived in Beaverton, Ala. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Willodean Foster Williams; brothers, Jim and Fred Williams; and sisters, Lois Williams and Sally Roach. He is survived by his sons, Jessie Williams of Philadelphia and Gary Williams of Winfield, Ala.; daughter, Phyllis Eizik of Reno, Nev.; brothers, Bill Williams of Detroit, Eddie Williams of Arkansas and Dallas Williams of Tampa, Fla.; six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Donald Ean Wayne Evans
Ean Evans, 48, died May 6, 2009 at his home in Columbus, MS. A Memorial service will be held Saturday, May 9, 11am at First Assembly of God Church, Rev. Curtis Bray officiating. Visitation will be held thirty minutes prior to the service in the sanctuary of First Assembly. Memorial Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. Ean was born Sept. 16, 1960 in Atlanta, GA to Mary Searcy Evans Cochran and the late Donald Evans. He was married to Eva Gaye Widner of Columbus Sept. 15, 1984. As a musician, Ean performed as bassist with the legendary band, Lynyrd Skynyrd, carrying the torch and filling the shoes of the fallen Leon Wilkerson, previous bassist with the same band. Upon completion of his side project Evanscapps, a record deal was recently signed. Ean was a humble man who never met a stranger, always connected with friends as a true brother and was always looking for a way to give a hand to any and all he met. He will truly be missed by all his friends, fans, family and associates. He is survived by his wife, Eva G. Evans of Columbus; daughters, Sydney Evans Altizer (Eddie) of Little Rock, AK & Andrea Evans of Columbus; mother & step-father, Mary Evans Cochran & Marion Cochran of Atlanta, GA; sisters, Wynelle West of Northport, FL, Jan Lashley & Donna Dunn of Atlanta, GA; brother, Darrell Evans, also of Atlant; mother-in-law, Maeanna Widner; sisters-in-law, Kittie Fountain & Dava Imes (Stephen) all of Columb; and a special granddaughter, Emery Altizer. Honorary pallbearers will be Gary & Dale Rossington Johnny VanZant, Rickey Medlocke, Michael Cartellone, Mark Matejka, Carol Chase, Arnie Knapp, Rick Foote Ray Noe, Bobby Capps, Jerry Scott & Robert Rhett. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Good Samaritan Clinic, 520 College Street, Columbus, Ms 39701.
Harvey Lewis Austin
Harvey Lewis Austin, 61, died May 2, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Saturday at 1 p.m. at Stephen Chapel MB Church with the Rev. Joe L. Peoples officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Gardens. Visitation is today from 3-8 p.m. with family hour from 6-7 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services in Columbus. Mr. Austin was born Jan. 29, 1948, in Columbus to the late Herman L. Austin and Lucretia Brewer Austin. He was employed with BellSouth Communications for approximately 30 years. He served in the U.S. Navy and attended Jackson State and Mississippi State University. He was a member of Stephen Chapel MB Church, where he served as a deacon. He is survived by his daughters, Sonya Vaughn of Powder Springs, Ga., and Reneatta Rachelle Austin of Sandy Springs, Ga.; brothers, the Hon. Curtis Austin and Kenneth Austin, both of Columbus, and Charles Austin of Greenville; sisters, Mary Woodrick of Columbus, Peggy Greene and Cynthia Melvin, both of Jackson, and Carol Bryant of Leesburg, Va.; and two grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Charles Brewer, Marvin Shelton, Otis Gardner, Mack Inge, George Woodrick and Frank Gore.
Sam Cunningham
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - Sam Cunningham, 95, died April 30, 2009, at Glen Haven Nursing Facility in Northport, Ala. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Mt. Galilee Baptist Church in Northport, Ala., with the Revs. J.L. Miller and S.L. Cunningham officiating. Burial will follow at Liberty Cemetery in Tuscaloosa. Visitation is today from noon-6 p.m. at Williams Service Funeral Home in Tuscaloosa, and the body will be at the church one hour prior to services on Saturday. Mr. Cunningham was a former member of Christian Love Baptist Church in Prairie Point. He was a retired bus driver for the Noxubee County Public School System and a member of Gavin Lodge #23 of Macon. He was preceded in death by his wife, Annie Bell Gibson Cunningham; and his siblings. He is survived by his daughters, Annie Pearl Harris of Macon and Rosie P. Cockrell of Syracuse, N.Y.; sons, Jimmy T. Cunningham of Chicago, the Rev. S.L. Cunningham, Willie Earl Cunningham and James Curtis Cunningham, all of Tuscaloosa, J.D. Cunningham of Northport and Steve Cunningham of Macon; grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Masons of Gavin Lodge #23 in Macon.
Annie B. Draper
MACON - Annie B. Draper, 89, died May 4, 2009, at Noxubee County General Hospital. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Macedonia MB Church with the Rev. Johnny L. Moore officiating. Burial will follow at Macedonia Cemetery in Macon. Visitation is today from noon-5 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Macon. Mrs. Draper was born Jan. 12, 1920, in Deerbrook to the late Rev. Frank Clay Jr. and Lulabell Walton Clay. She was a member of the Macedonia MB Church choir, and for many years she was the Sunday school teacher and secretary of the Missionary Society. Since 1997, she has served as the Mother of the church. She was a member of Noxubee County Home Demonstrator's Agency. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Arthur Draper; son, Kenneth Draper; daughter, Annie Will Draper; sisters, Lulabell Clay, Sally Davis, Edna L. Sykes and Mary C. Tate; brothers, George, Joseph and Robert Clay; one granddaughter and two great-grandchildren. She is survived by her sons, Eddie C. and Robert A. Draper, both of Macon; daughters, Ola Draper Stark of Chicago and Dr. Vivian Draper of Tupelo; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be family and friends.
Glenn Roy Franklin, Sr.
VERNON, Ala. - Glenn Roy Franklin, Sr., 63, died May 3, 2009, at his residence. Services are today at 6 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home in Vernon with Dan Duncan officiating. Burial will follow at Furnace Hill Cemetery in Vernon. Visitation is today from 4-6 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Franklin was born May 30, 1945, in Birmingham, Ala. He was a truck driver and a veteran. He was preceded in death by his father, Walter M. Franklin; and brothers, Jerry Wayne, W.M., Marvin Emmett and Rayburn Franklin. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Franklin of Vernon; sons, Glenn Roy Franklin of Vernon and Walter Allen Franklin of Hamilton, Ala.; daughters, Gale McDill of Caledonia, Rachel Edgeworth of Mantachie, Laura Franklin of Fayette, Ala., and Victoria Franklin of Caledonia; mother, Ruth Bolin; brothers, Donald Eads of Arkansas, Troy Wilson, Harold Bolin, James K. Bolin Jr. and Richard Williams, all of Columbus; sisters, Brenda Rodgers of Birmingham, Ala., and Kay Watts, Linda Bolin, Shirley Gilmore and Yvonne Hearn, all of Columbus; and 12 grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Lance Heath, Eric Smith, Scott Van, Clyde Murdock, James Phelps, Richard Wilson Jr. and Roy Franklin Jr.
Annie Lee "Head" Holmes
Annie Lee "Head" Holmes, 79, died May 1, 2009. Services are Saturday at 2:30 p.m. at Mt. Avery Baptist Church with the Rev. James Rice officiating. Burial will follow at Holmes Cemetery. Visitation is today from noon-6 p.m. and the family will greet visitors from 5-6 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home Chapel in Macon. Mrs. Holmes was born May 13, 1929, in Fairport Community of Noxubee County to the late Nettie McCarter and Zeke Cotton. She was a lifelong member of Union Chapel MB Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Sammie Holmes Sr.; and seven grandchildren. She is survived by her children, Willie C. Holmes of Kosciusko, Lillie Harrison and Spizell, Tommie J., Sammie Jr. and Charlie Holmes, all of Brooksville, Jamie Ash of Hattiesburg, Mattie Rice of Starkville, Theotis Holmes of Jackson, Walter B. Farmer of Crawford, and Marjorie Farmer of Jackson; siblings, Queen Esther Edwards of Columbus, Sylvia Ashford of Hattiesburg, Emma Brown of Brooksville and Jeffrey McCarter of Sturgis; 40 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Union Chapel deacons and trustees.
R. L. Jennings
R. L. Jennings, 77, died Thursday, May 7, 2009, at his home, in West Point. Rube Leon Jennings, Jr. was born May 6, 1932 in Cedar Bluff, to the late Amanda Rebekah Myers Jennings and Rube Leon Jennings, Sr. Mr. Jenning was a Retired U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sargeant for 20 years and 9 months, he had worked as an electrician following his retirement. He was Baptist and a Veteran of the U. S. Air Force serving during Korean War and the Vietnam War periods. Sisters and brothers, Ora Cardwell, Lucille Dowdle, Elmer Jennings, John Jennings, W. C. Jennings, and Clara Belle Hill also preceded him in death. Funeral services will be Sunday, May 10, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. from Calvert Funeral Home Chapel with the U. S. Air Force Chaplain Charles" Rick" Montoya officiating, along with full military graveside burial honors. Burial will follow in Cedar Bluff Methodist Cemetery Cedar Bluff. Calvert Funeral Home of West Point is in charge of arrangements. Survivors include three daughters, Debbie Jennings Wilson of Columbus, Lisa Jennings Keeton (Bill) of Maryville, TN, and Annette Jennings Atkinson of West Point; three sons, John Paul Jennings (Maie) of Ft. Walton, FL, Charles Norman Jennings (Monica) of Vero Beach, FL, and Rube L. "Lee" Jennings, III of Ridge Crest, CA; 14 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He will be especially missed by greatgrandson, Mackenzie Chase Wilson and great granddaughter Skailyr Jennings Scott who he loved to play ball with. Pallbearers will be Joey Myers, Ryan Boykin, Heath Jennings, Curt Kisner, Blake Miller, and Robert Miller. Honorary Pallbearers will be J. B. Kisner, Wayne "Pee Wee" Wray, Grady Ivy, Donnie Walker, Kenny Ingram, Dr. Robert Boland, Scotty Allen, Butch Boykin, Dr. Robbin Faulkner, Roger Blake, and his military retiree friends, Earl Vaughn, Ted Burton, Doc Adams and Jim Obenchain. Memorials may be made to Cedar Bluff Methodist Cemetery Care Fund, c/o Miss Mary Rose Lyon, 419 McCord Street West Point, MS 39773. Visitation will be Saturday, 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Calvert Funeral Home.
Evelyn Laverne Moore Medley
SMITHVILLE - Evelyn Laverne Moore Medley, 85, died May 6, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Smithville with Bro. Charles Coggin officiating. Burial will follow at Smithville Cemetery. Visitation is Saturday for two hours prior to services at the funeral home. Mrs. Medley was born May 30, 1923, in Monroe County to the late William Ezra and Viola Turman Moore. She was a lifelong resident of Monroe County and a member of Smithville Methodist Church. She was a homemaker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Owen E. Medley Jr.; and brother, Billy James Moore. She is survived by her son, Owen E. Medley III of Sapulpa, Okla.; daughter, Lynda Ellinwood Aldridge of Virginia Beach, Va.; sisters, Frances M. Gregory of Olive Branch and Peggy M. Jones of Little Rock, Ark.; seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Eddie Carroll Gregory, Mike Jones, Chuck Morris, Butch Palmer, Mike Robinson and Mike Hughey.
Lenny "Smokey" Rice
Lenny "Smokey" Rice, 31, died May 4, 2009, at University Hospital-Jackson. Memorial services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home Chapel in Columbus. Mr. Rice was born Dec. 20, 1977, in Clay County. He was preceded in death by his father, L.A. Jones. He is survived by his mother, Rosemary Rice; sisters, Carrie Rice, Sally Dent, Lisa Ross and Inez Ellis; and brothers, L.A., Roosevelt, Willie and Robert Jones, Ellis Steel and James Smith.
DETROIT, Ala. - Annie Laura Scott, 92, died May 6, 2009, at Marion Regional Medical Center-Hamilton, Ala. Services are today at 2 p.m. at Norwood Funeral Home Chapel in Sulligent, Ala., with Bro. Jeff Scott and Bro. Edward Puckett officiating. Burial will follow at Wesley Chapel Cemetery. Mrs. Scott was born in Lamar County, Ala., to the late Thomas and Jeffie Lonnie Danner Blaylock. She was a member of Shiloh Methodist Church and had lived in the Shiloh and Detroit area all of her life. She retired from Detroit Slacks as a seamstress and inspector. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Theren Scott; son, Lesley Scott; two brothers; five sisters; one grandson and one great-grandson. She is survived by her daughters, Anita Huffstuttler of Adel, Ga., and Annette Scott of Detroit, Ala.; sisters, Mary Lou Ford of Greenwood Springs, Alvie Huffstuttler of Kenosha, Wis., and Jean Brown of Birmingham, Ala.; three grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Ben and Tim Scott, Dewayne Ford, Jackie Irvin, Johnney Randolph and Charles Clifton.
Sandra Carolyn Brewer
HAMILTON - Sandra Carolyn Brewer, 68, died May 5, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Services are Friday at 11 a.m. at Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Aberdeen with the Rev. John Maxey officiating. Burial will follow at New Prospect Cemetery. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Miss Brewer was born March 27, 1941, in Hamilton to the late Hoyle C. and Mantie Smith Brewer. She was a lifelong resident of Hamilton. She graduated from Aberdeen High School and Mississippi State College for Women in Columbus. She retired after 27 years as a case worker for Monroe County Welfare Department. She was a member of New Prospect Baptist Church. She is survived by her sisters, Patsy Haralson of Memphis, Tenn., and Sharon Self of Hamilton. Pallbearers will be Robert, Donnie, Todd and Gabe Irvin, Joey Bagwell and Daniel Bray
Billy Cummings
MILLPORT, Ala. - Billy Cummings, 73, died May 5, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Friday at 11 a.m. at Dowdle Funeral Home in Millport with the Rev. Lenwood Gilliland, Linda Henderson, Bro. Chester Shaw and Kenneth Humbers officiating. Burial will follow at Millport City Cemetery in Millport. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Cummings was born June 13, 1935, in Millport to the late James Comer and Lela Petronella Cummings. He was a lifelong resident of Millport, the business owner of Columbus Awning for 35 years, member of Church of the Nazarene in Millport, and a founding member and honorary member of South Lamar Rescue Squad. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Humbers Cummings of Millport; daughters, Lisa Turner of Millport and Watana Orcutt of Dallas; son, Barry E. Cummings of Muscle Shoals; sisters, Colene Livingston and Peggy Gilliland, both of Gordo, Ala., and Ann Partain of Millport; brothers, Charles Cummings of Fayette, Ala., and Jimmy Cummings of Millport; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Pallbearers will be Steve and Ricky Cummings, Tyler and Caleb Turner, Danny Livingston, Keith and Mike Sullivan and Tommy Pate.
Gordon H. Fenner
Gordon H. Fenner, 80, passed away 5/2/09 at his home in Ormond Beach, FL. Gordon was born in Fond du Lac, WI and raised by his late parents, Herb and Gertrude Steiner Fenner in Menasha, WI. Having earned his bachelor's degree at North Central College in Naperville, Ill, Gordon developed keen product marketing skills and innovation insights. He successfully leveraged these talents in a variety of roles held in the environmental equipment industry since the early 1960s. He spent the last 20 years of his business career as president and CEO of Marathon Equipment Co. of Vernon, AL., the leading global manufacturer of on-site waste compaction and recycling equipment. He was a pioneer in this industry who provided the vision and inspiration behind a variety of patented and innovative products that remain standards for the industry to this day. Gordon will forever be remembered as a loving husband, a devoted father, a real business leader and a generous and trusted friend to all whose lives were touched by him. He is survived by his wife Jennifer Fenner; his former wife Charlotte Fenner of Naperville, IL; his two sons Grant Fenner of Memphis, TN and Gary Fenner of Ormond Beach, FL. and their wives Renee and Joyce; granddaughter Jennifer Walton of Birmingham, AL; grandsons Jason Fenner of Oakland, CA, Jordan Estes of Gainesville, FL, Dustin Estes of Memphis, TN. and Jakob Fenner of Ormond Beach, FL and three great-granddaughters Madalynn and Emma Walton of Birmingham, AL and Rylee Estes of Memphis, TN. Pursuant to Gordon's wishes, no visitation or funeral will be held. Instead a private celebration of Gordon's life among family members will take place in Ormond Beach, FL. and, later this summer, on the banks of the Manistique River near Germfask, MI.
Roy Clarence Pickle
Roy Clarence Pickle, age 90, of Columbus, MS died May 5, 2009 at The Windsor Place. Funeral services will be Friday, May 8, 2009 at 2:00 PM at Gunter & Peel Chapel with Rev. Pat Creel and Rev. Carolyn Hulen officiating. The interment will follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, May 7, 2009 from 6:00-8:30 PM at Gunter & Peel Funeral Home. Mr. Pickle was born September 15, 1918 in Smithville, MS to the late Earnest and Zana Pugh Pickle. He was a veteran of WWII serving in the United States Army and retired from United Technologies after 27 years. Mr. Pickle was a member of the former Northside Freewill Baptist Church where he served as trustee. In addition to his parents, Mr. Pickle was preceded in death by sisters, Dorothy Pickle of Smithville, MS, Leona Graham of AR, Pauline Phelan of Weatherford, TX, Syble Martin of AZ, and Willie Mae Smth of Columbus, MS, and one brother, Frank Pickle of Steens, MS. Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Nellivee Ray Pickle of Columbus, daughter, Linda (Jerry) Darrell of Columbus, brothers, John H. Pickle of Hamilton, MS, Arnold Pickle of Ft. Worth, TX, James Pickle of Weatherford, TX, and Bill Pickle of Palo Pinto, TX, and sisters, Zana Pierce of Amory, MS, and Elois Watson of Mansfield, TX, grandsons, Chad (Jennifer) Darrell of Columbus, Shane (Kristina) Darrell of Columbus, Kevin (Mary Jane) Darrell of Murfreesboro, TN, and Sean Darrell of Murfreesboro, TN, and great grandchildren, Lindsey, Jeffrey, Whitney, Chase, Diana, Kevin, Noah, Lacey, and Grant Darrell. Pallbearers will be grandsons and Charles Christian, Jerry Strickland, Nick Hulen, and Robert Rippetoe.
Charlie Smith, Jr.
KANKAKEE, Ill. - Charlie Smith, Jr. died April 27, 2009, at Riverside Medical Center. Services were Saturday at 10 a.m. at Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Kankakee with Pastor Vincent E. Clark officiating. Burial followed at Mound Grove Gardens in Kankakee. Jones Funeral Home of Kankakee was in charge of arrangements. Mr. Smith was born June 8, 1923, in Crawford to the late Charlie Sr. and Delia Bailey Smith. He attended school in Crawford. He was a member of Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Kankakee. He was employed as a laborer and retired from the former Kankakee Foundry and Indiana Fruit Market. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his children, Robert Mosley Sr., and Sarah, Oscar, Sammie and Ellen Smith; and siblings, Bessie Gandy, Lee Polar Smith, Annie B. Jordan and Fred Pope. He is survived by his wife, Laura Mae Washington Smith; sons, Alton, Charlie III and Eddie Smith, all of Kankakee, MacArthur Smith of Grand Rapids, Mich., and Jimmie Martin of Queen Creek, Ariz.; daughters, Mary Walter, Doris Dabney, Rosie Williams and Oaklon Smith, all of Kankakee, and Claudine Smith of Grand Rapids; brothers, Jake Smith of Columbus and Freddie Will Black of Detroit; 36 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers were Charles and Lorance Dabney, Jeremiah Flournoy, Antonio and Marease Harris, Jonah, Joshua and Qwantel Riley, Charlie IV, Kenneth, Mack Jr., Oscar and Tyron Smith, and Willie Jr. and Eric Walter.
Janice Bailey Williams Stockman
Janice Bailey Williams Stockman, 66, of Columbus, MS, passed away Wednesday, April 29, 2009, at Sacred Heart Hospital, Pensacola, FL. A memorial service will be held Friday, May 8, 2009, at 3:00 pm in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel, Columbus, MS with the Honorable Jim Kitchens officiating. Janice was born September 26, 1942, in Columbus, MS to the late James Edward Williams and Laura Rummage Williams and was a lifelong resident of Columbus, MS. She was a member of First United Methodist Church, Columbus, MS. Janice received her B.S. degree in biology from the Mississippi State College for Women "MUW" and took a position with the Lowndes County Welfare Dept. (now the Dept. of Human Services) and found her calling. As a licensed social worker and child abuse investigator, she devoted her life to helping others in need. During her years at DHS, she received several letters of commendation for her work and in 1994, Janice received the Social Worker of the Year Award for the state of Mississippi. Many times she would say how much she loved her job. She retired in 2001 after more than thirty-four years of service, but continued to work for several more years with troubled and at-risk children through the Exchange Club sponsored COPES Program. In addition to her professional life, she also served others by participating in several church-sponsored mission trips to Mexico and was a volunteer for Camp Rising Sun. An animal lover, she adopted a rescued horse and pony who also volunteered at Camp Rising Sun. The most memorable of her pets were her pot-bellied pig and her Chihuahua. She was a devoted and very proud grandmother known as "Munny" to all her grandson's friends. She was also a proud great-grandmother, sharing her birthday with her great-granddaughter. The number of lives she touched is countless and she will be greatly missed. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, George Ray Stockman. Janice is survived by her daughter, Laura Barnhart, Pensacola, FL; brother, James "Jimmy" Williams, Meridian, MS; sister, Betty Jo (Jim) Nicholson, Cherry Hill, NJ; half-sister, Lisa (Stan) Rector, Columbus, MS; grandson, Brandon (Dawn) Barnhart, Gulfport, MS; greatgranddaughter, Alexis Barnhart, Gulfport, MS. Other survivors include cousin, Robert "Bunky" (Joyce) Williams, Gene (Mary) Williams, one niece Amber Rector, all of Columbus, and three nephews, David Pratt, Jeff Pratt and Jim Scott Nicholson.
Lamarco Jarmel Tate
PRAIRIE POINT - Lamarco Jarmel Tate, 22, died May 2, 2009, in Shuqualak. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Prairie Point MB Church in Prairie Point with Pastor Larry Clay officiating. Burial will follow at Prairie Point Cemetery. Visitation is Friday from 1-5 p.m. at Jones Memorial Funeral Home in Macon, and the body will be at the church Saturday one hour prior to services. Mr. Tate worked at Yarbough electric service for two years. He is survived by his parents, Marcell and Jerry Yarbough Tate and Joseph and Linda Grissom of Macon; son, Lamarco Roberto Tate of Macon; brothers, Marcus Pope of Mt. Pocono, Pa., Carlos Grissom of Brooksville, Eric Grissom of Jonesboro, Ga., John Derick Grissom of Memphis, Tenn., and DeAngelo J. Grissom of Macon; and sisters, Raquel Tate of Macon, Kimberly Benson of Southaven and Alicia D. Taylor of Macon.
Alberta “Bertie” Lester
Alberta “Bertie” Lester, 58 of Caledonia, MS passed away Tuesday, May 5, 2009 at Baptist Memorial Hospital – GT, Columbus, MS.Visitation will be held Thursday, May 7, 2009 from 6 to 8 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral Services will be held Friday, May 8, 2009 at 11 AM in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. David Smith officiating. Interment will be in Memorial Gardens, Columbus, MS with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing.
Mrs. Lester was born February 28, 1951 in Fredricksburg, VA to the late Elwood Thomas and Delores Stevens Toombs and was a resident of Caledonia, MS for the past twenty years having moved from Pasadena, MD. She was a homemaker, a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post No. 4272 and loved playing bingo. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her son, Roy Allen Lester.
Mrs. Lester is survived by her husband, Isaac Robert Lester, Sr., Caledonia, MS; son, Robert Lester, Jr., Caledonia, MS; daughter, Dawn Arnold, Caledonia, MS; sisters, Barbara Ann Curtis, Columbus, MS; Juanita Nieves, Millersville, MD; Francis Williams, Pasadena, MD; Melissa Toombs, Pasadena, MD; brother, Thomas Toombs, Carlisle, PA; grandchildren, David Lester, Danniell Lester, Summer Arnold, Alexandria Lester, Tiffany Lester and Roy Allen Lester, Jr.
Pallbearers will be Tony Madden, James “Bubba” McIntyre, David McDill, Allen Haynes, Terry Taylor, and Chuck Fiske.
Reba Grayce Dobbins
Reba Grayce Dobbins, 63, died May 4, 2009, at Northwest Medical Center. Memorial services are Thursday at 2 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home in Vernon, Ala., with Bro. Max Bobbitt officiating. Mrs. Dobbins was born April 27, 1946, in Greenville, Tenn., to the late James and Sallie Ann Roberts. She had worked as a seamstress. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Dobbins. She is survived by her sons, Charles Haydon of Galesburg, Ill., and James Dobbins of Amory; daughters, Rebecca Cantrell of Caledonia and Donna Smith of Sulligent; brothers, James and Dan Richards, both of Greeneville, Tenn.; nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Ted L. Kinard, Sr.
STARKVILLE - Ted L. Kinard, Sr., 65, died May 4, 2009, at his residence. Services are Thursday at 2 p.m. at Welch Funeral Home Chapel in Starkville with the Rev. Kenny Gardner officiating. Burial will follow at Curtis Chapel Cemetery. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Kinard is survived by his wife, Frances Miller Kinard of Starkville; daughter, Maria Cantrell of Starkville; son, Ted Kinard Jr. of Starkville; and five grandchildren.
Honorable Laura Dean Eaves Murphy
Honorable Laura Dean Eaves Murphy, 45, died at her residence in Booneville on Saturday, May 2, 2009. Services will be at 2 PM Wednesday, May 6, 2009 at the Bethesda Baptist Church west of Crawford with Bro. Allen Deas officiating. Burial will follow in the church Cemetery. Visitation is from 1 PM until service time at the church. Holland-Harris Funeral Directors, Tupelo Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Ms. Murphy was born on Oct. 11, 1963 in Columbus to Albert W. Eaves, Jr. and Lois Dean Bell Eaves. She grew up in Crawford and graduated from Central Academy in Macon. She received her B.S. in Business Administration from Mississippi State University in 1984 and graduated from the University of Mississippi School of Law in 2000. A self employed practicing attorney in Booneville and Tupelo, Counselor Murphy concentrated her law practice in family law especially matters involving children and domestic abuse. She most recently served as case manager for the Prentiss County Youth Court as well as serving many years with the Lee County Youth Court having been appointed Guardian Ad litem for many area children. She often quipped that God called her to take care of widow women and children and she did both well. She was a member of the Lee County/Prentiss County and Mississippi State Bar and an active volunteer and supporter of S.A.F.E. Domestic Violence Shelter in Tupelo. She enjoyed all forms of music and the outdoors but her most important devotion and sacrifice in life was to her four children whom she loved and adored. She was a member of her home Church, Bethesda Baptist Church in Crawford, MS. She will be sorely missed by her family and many friends everywhere. Survivors include her four children: Joseph Murphy, Julie Anna Murphy and Vaughan Murphy (Ryan Phipps) all of Oxford and Sarah-Anne Murphy of Booneville; her parents: Lois Dean and A.D. Eaves of Crawford; MS; her grandson: Henry Elvis Phipps of Oxford; her sister: Louise Davis (Ed) of Starkville, MS; her fiance: Ed Jenkins of Booneville, MS; her uncle and aunt: F.D and Joyce Eaves of New Orleans, LA; her cousin: Mark Eaves of New Orleans, LA; two nephews: Christopher Davis (Coree) of Crawford, MS and Eric Davis of Starkville, MS and a host of friends. Pallbearers will be Joseph Murphy, Tony Murphy, Christopher and Eric Davis, Jim Bell, Mark Eaves, Kyle Mills, Carson Kisner, McKinley Holland, Benji Borrelli and Richard Davidson.
Marion "Melvin" Young, Jr.
ABERDEEN - Marion "Melvin" Young, Jr., 60, died April 30, 2009. Services are Saturday at 1 p.m. at Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church. Visitation is Friday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., and the body will be at the church one hour prior to services on Saturday. Westbrooks Funeral Home of Aberdeen is in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Young was born March 6, 1949, in Aberdeen. At an early age, he joined Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church where he had served as president of United Methodist Men. He was a 1967 graduate of the West Amory High School. He attended Rust College in Holly Springs and Mary Holmes College in West Point. He was drafted into the U.S. armed services in 1970 and later joined the National Guard unit in Aberdeen. He was a member of William H. Beamon American Legion Post 231 in Aberdeen, where he served as past commander for two years and was currently serving as post adjuant for the past 15 years. He was an employee of Burris Chair Factory in Prairie, Atlas Body in West Point, and most recently at Tecumseh Products in Verona. He was preceded in death by his mother, Katie Gray Young; grandparents, Elnora and Nelson Young; and brother, Phillip Young. He is survived by his wife, Julia Irons; father, Marion Young Sr.; sister, Verneta Young of Aberdeen; and brothers; Charles Young of Chickasaw, Silvester Young of Aberdeen, Dexter Young of Verona and Jimmie L. Young of Holly Springs.
Mary Shirley Davis
Mary Shirley Davis, 63, of Columbus, MS passed away Friday, May 1, 2009, at her residence. Visitation was held Saturday, May 2, 2009, from 6 - 8 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral services were held Sunday, May 3, 2009, at 2 PM in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Oscar Maddox officiating. Interment was in Tabernacle Cemetery, Ethelsville, AL with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing. Mrs. Davis was born September 14, 1945, in Columbus, MS, to the late William Hugh and Willie Blanchard Miller and was a resident of Columbus, MS for the past forty-two years, having moved from Dunbee, IL. She was a retired seamstress and elderly caretaker for about 5 years and loved to shop. Mrs. Davis was a member of Calvary Assembly of God, Columbus, MS. Mrs. Davis is survived by her husband of thirty-nine years - Jessie D. Davis, Columbus, MS; two stepchildren - Thomas Dee Davis and Mary Ellen Marcum; brother - William Hugh Miller, Jr., San Manuel, AZ; four grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Pallbearers were Jim Godwin, Matthew Hood, Roger Jones, David Ross, Walter Kidder and Richard Kidder.
Janet Holliman Guyton
Janet Holliman Guyton, 68, went to be with her Lord and Saviour Friday morning, May 1, 2009. She had been a patient at North Mississippi Medical Center for several days before her homegoing. She was born in Electric Mills, Miss. to Wilbert Glenn and Anna Bell McLellan Holliman and grew up in Shuqualak, MS. She was a graduate of Shuqualak High School. She married the love of her life, Tommy Guyton, on October 5, 1958. She attended the Colvin Academy of Cosmetology in Columbus, MS and was a lifelong beautician and owner of Beauty Chateau in Macon, MS. She was a longtime member of both the United Daughters of the Confederacy and the Daughters of the American Revolution. She was also a Life member of the Macon Junior Auxillary. She had served on the Four County Electric Power Association District Board. Mrs. Janet was a very active and devoted member of Calvary Baptist Church of Macon where she taught Sunday School, was a member of the choir, and was the Chairman of the Hostess Committee for many years. Mrs. Janet was preceded in death by her father, Glenn Holliman. Mrs. Janet was a faithful daughter to her mother - Anna Bell Holliman of Shuqualak, MS and was a loving wife and mother who will be much missed by her husband - Tommy, of Macon, MS and daughters - Teleah Carter (Claude) of Columbus, MS and Beverly Ross (Bill) of Macon, MS. Also mourning this loss is her beloved brother, Mickey Holliman (Babs) of Tupelo, MS. She was a well-loved grandmother to her grandchildren - Anna Leigh Whitehead (Jonathan), Trent Ross (Krystal), and Emily Vernon (Nick) as well as to her three great-grandchildren.
Kenneth Edward Harris
Kenneth Edward Harris, 71, of Caledonia, MS, passed away Sunday, May 3, 2009, at his residence in Caledonia, MS. Graveside services will be held Tuesday, May 5, 2009, at 2 PM with military honors at Egger Cemetery, Caledonia, MS with Bro. Don Harding officiating; Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS, directing. Mr. Harris was born June 11, 1937, in Coeburn, VA to the late George W. and Laura Beck Harris and was a resident of Caledonia, MS, for the past thirty-six years, having moved from Grand Forks, ND. He was retired from Dynacorp after ten years of service as a parachute packer and retired from the U.S. Air Force as a T/Sgt. after twenty-three years of service. Mr. Harris was a member of the American Legion, Aberdeen, MS and VFW Post No. 4272, Columbus, MS. He is survived by his wife of fifty-two years, Rita Harris, Caledonia, MS; daughters - Carsey Harris Kirkland, Caledonia, MS; Vickie Harris, Caledonia, MS; half-sister - Elizabeth Sexton, Kingsport, TN and one grandchild - Corey Kirkland.
Paul Ray
GUIN, Ala. - Paul Ray, 36, died May 3, 2009, at Northwest Medical Center-Winfield, Ala. Services were today at 11 a.m. at Otts Funeral Home Chapel in Sulligent, Ala., with Bro. Johnny Freeman and Bro. Keith Spencer officiating. Burial followed at Pickle Cemetery. Mr. Ray was born March 18, 1973, in Lamar County, Ala. He was a member of Shiloh North Methodist Church. He had previously lived in Sulligent and attended Sulligent schools. He had worked at Hamilton Plastics. He was preceded in death by his father, Howard Ray; and grandparents, Driver and Effie Hawkins, and B.M. and Tommie Ray. He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Annie Lou and Bobby Knight of Guin; brothers, Roger Ray of Guin, and Ricky and Richard Ray, both of Sulligent; sisters, Julie Gann of Guin and Kay Roberts of Winfield, Ala.; stepbrothers, Jackie Knight of Amory and Joey Knight of Detroit, Ala.; and stepsisters, Susan Benson of Sulligent, Sandra Pritchett of Sand Mountain, Ala., and Renee Shotts and Tammy Ables, both of Hamilton, Ala. Pallbearers were Jamie and Jason Gann, Dale and David Wayne Kilgore, Chris Roberts and Ricky Ray Jr.
Claudine Owens Shelton
MILLPORT, Ala. - Claudine Owens Shelton, 84, died May 3, 2009, at Salem Nursing Home in Reform, Ala. Services are Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Liberty Assembly of God Church with the Revs. Chester Shaw and Doug Blakney officiating. Burial will follow at Bethlehem Cemetery. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at Dowdle Funeral Home in Millport, Ala., and the body will be at the church Wednesday one hour prior to services. Mrs. Shelton was born Dec. 16, 1924, in Fayette, Ala., to the late Pinkney and Rona Lee Owens. She had lived in the Liberty Community for 60 years and was a member of Liberty Assembly of God. She was retired from working at Westinghouse. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Winford Lee Shelton; son, James Lee Shelton; sisters, Betty Basher and Lily Pearson; and brother, Lester Owens. She is survived by her son, Tommy Shelton of Fayette; sister, Vaudine Howard of Kennedy, Ala.; four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Wes, Dale and Allen Shelton, Kenny A. Stripling Jr., and Floyd and Robert Owens.
Julia Rose Tkach
STARKVILLE - Julia Rose Tkach, 18, died May 3, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Mass will be Thursday at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Starkville. Visitation is Wednesday from 5-8 p.m. at the church. Welch Funeral Home in Starkville is in charge of arrangements. Miss Tkach was born on March 28, 1991, in Boulder, Colo. She was a graduating senior at Starkville High School. She was employed as a legal assistant for Austin Voller and had plans to attend East Mississippi Community College and then Mississippi State University. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Dr. Joe Drazek. She is survived by her parents, Joe and Mary Tkach; sister, Emma; and grandparents, Bob and Emma Tkach of West Point and Joanne Drazek of Phoenix.
Maggie L. White
BEAVERTON, Ala. - Maggie L. White, 85, died May 3, 2009, at Northwest Medical Center-Winfield, Ala. Services are Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Norwood Funeral Home Chapel in Sulligent, Ala., with Bro. Shane Harris officiating. Burial will follow at Beaverton Cemetery. Visitation is today from 4-6 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. White was born in Marion County, Ala., to the late Marcellus N. and Mary Dora Sizemore Lockhart. She live most of her life in the Beaverton area and was a member of Eastern Star, the ladies VFW, served on the advisory board of The First State Bank of the South, and was a member of Beaverton United Methodist Church. She retired from the McCoy Manufacturing Plant and was co-owner of Whites Tax Service. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Nelton White; five sisters and six brothers. She is survived by her daughters, Diane White Hankins of Macon and Vickie White Norwood of Beaverton; three grandchildren and one great-grandson. Pallbearers will be Steve and Raymond White, Chuck Stanford, Foy Lockhart and Steve Morton.
Sybil Carter
DETROIT, Ala. - Sybil Carter, 68, died May 2, 2009, at Northwest Medical Center-Winfield, Ala. Services are Tuesday at 2 p.m. at Otts Funeral Home Chapel in Sulligent, Ala. Burial will follow at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Carter was born July 15, 1940, in Sulligent to the late Dave and Velma Cantrell Smith. She was a member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church. She worked for Glenn Enterprises for several years. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Tony Carter; and daughter, Debra King. She is survived by her husband, Arthie V. Carter of Detroit; daughters, Missy Hathcock and Teresa Downey, both of Sulligent; brothers, Hershel Crenshaw of Lawrenceburg, Tenn., and Broad Crenshaw of Amory; sisters, Willie Mae Thompson of Quincy and Donna Thompson of Amory; 11 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Brandon Downey, Eric Stanford, Hershel and Kevin King, Henry Crenshaw and Donnie Noe.
Robert "Bob" Talley, Sr.
MILLPORT, Ala. - Robert "Bob" Talley, Sr., 67, died May 3, 2009, at Druid City Hospital-Tuscaloosa, Ala. Services are Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Dowdle Funeral Home Chapel in Millport with the Rev. Heath Allred officiating. Burial will follow at Pisgah Baptist Church Cemetery in Walker County, Ala. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Talley was born July 12, 1941, in Jasper, Ala., to the late Robert Lee and Pearl Brown Talley. He was a member of Sixth Avenue Church of Christ. He was a retired truck driver and also had been a police officer, having served as chief of police in Parrish, Ala. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Robert Ray Talley Jr. He is survived by his daughters, Mary Ann Talley and Tammy McCool, both of Millport, and Jeanne Williams and Cindy Talley, both of Jasper, Ala.; son, Rusty Talley of Lynn, Ala.; 12 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
James W. Walker
PLAQUEMINE, La. - James W. Walker, 67, died April 11, 2009, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. Services were April 14 at 9 a.m. at Wilbert Funeral Home in Plaquemine with Pastors Jon Moyers and Frank Manguno officiating. Burial followed at Grace Memorial Park. Mr. Walker was born Feb. 23, 1942, and was a native of Courtland. He was a machinist with Elliot Co. of Plaquemine and a member of the United Methodist Church in Courtland. He was preceded in death by his parents, Melburne and Ruth Walker; sisters, Mary Norsworthy, Jean Gottlieb and Ann Reeves; brothers, Melburne Lee and Garland Wray Walker He is survived by his wife, Charity Henson Walker; daughter, Connie M. Reed; son, James Walker Anderson; brothers, William Clay Walker of Columbus and Merritt Hunt Walker of Batesville; and five grandchildren. Pallbearers were Jeremy Burnett, James Anderson, Jamie Ashford, Lynn King, Will Hebert, Marshall Henson and Hurley Henson Sr. and Brady Henson Sr.
Jimmy Wayne Byars
GORDO, Ala. - Jimmy Wayne Byars, 69, died April 30, 2009, at Pickens County Medical Center. Graveside services were Saturday at 4 p.m. at Center Springs Cemetery with the Rev. Nancy Cole officiating. Skelton Funeral Home of Reform, Ala., was in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Byars was born Jan. 22, 1940, in Gordo. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army Reserves and a retired employee of Peco Farms. He was a lifelong resident of Pickens County and a Methodist. He was preceded in death by his father, James Raymond Byars, and brother, Douglas Dewin Byars. He is survived by his mother, Lorene Elmore Byars of Gordo; sister, Sharon Bailey of Gordo; and brother, Dennis Byars of Gordo.
William Edward Davis
William Edward Davis, 55, died May 2, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Lowndes Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Davis was born April 21, 1954, in Dallas to the late Jesse O'Neal and Mary Ellen Davis. He was a self-employed handyman. He is survived by his sister, Gloria Wilson of Knoxville, Tenn.; brothers, Paul Davis of Columbus, and Michael Davis of Bossier City, La.
Betty Gail Flynn
SULLIGENT, Ala. - Betty Gail Flynn, 68, died May 1, 2009, at the Care Center of Vernon, Ala. Services are Monday at 11 a.m. at the Otts Funeral Home Chapel with Bros. John Paul Kitchens and Jackie Pate officiating. Burial will follow at Blaylock Cemetery. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Ms. Flynn was born Oct. 31, 1940, in Lamar County, Ala., to the late Andrew Francis and Edna Marie Warren Flynn. She was a member of Gattman First Baptist Church and provided child care in Lamar County for many years. She is survived by her sisters, Barbara Frances Kitchens of Vernon, and Julia Gooch of Killen, Ala.
William Jackson "Billy Jack" Harper
WEST POINT - William Jackson "Billy Jack" Harper, 69, died May 1, 2009, at his residence. Services are Monday at 10 a.m. at Robinson Funeral Home Chapel in West Point with the Rev. Barry Hathcock officiating. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation is today from 3-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Harper was born March 10, 1940, in West Point to the late Leslie Wallace Harper and Orene Ford. He was a member of Hope Baptist Church in West Point and a retired truck driver, welder and farmer. He is survived by his wife Margaret Kelly Harper of West Point; daughters, Cheryl Portera of West Point and Deborah Kimble of Nettleton; brother, Wallace Harper Jr. of Corinth; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Brad Allen, Kelly and Doug Abrams, Paul Ware, Ricky Blake and Rodney Jones.
Bobby Eugene "Popcorn" Hudgins
ALICEVILLE, Ala. - Bobby Eugene "Popcorn" Hudgins, 73, died April 30, 2009, at Hospice of West Alabama. Services are Monday at 11 a.m. at Aliceville First Presbyterian Church with Dr. Thomas Kay Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at Franconia-Oak Grove Cemetery. Visitation is Monday from 10-10:45 a.m. at the church sanctuary. Skelton Funeral Home of Reform, Ala., is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Hudgins was born May 5, 1935, in Aliceville to the late John Wilce Hudgins Sr. and Esther Marie Sammons Hudgins. He retired from the U.S. Army, the U.S.A.R.N.G. and U.S. Army Reserves. He was a life long member of Aliceville First Presbyterian Church, where he served as a youth director, deacon and past church treasurer. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, J.W. Hudgins Jr. and William H. Hudgins. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Jay Hudgins of Aliceville; daughters, Tammy Hudgins Junkin of Anniston, Ala., and Mary Mayfield Kelly of Needham, Ala.; two grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Pallbearers will be Charles Davis, Butch Reed, James Parker, Hugh Summerville, Irvin Eatmon, Donny Sanders, Lawrence Lavender and Johnny Haggerman.
Sheena Martin
SULLIGENT, Ala. - Sheena Martin, 39, died April 30, 2009, in Vernon, Ala. Services are today at 2 p.m. at Otts Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Mitch Nethery officiating. Burial will follow at Sulligent City Cemetery. Mrs. Martin was born Jan. 18, 1970, in Amory to Dale and Margaret Weeks Nolen. She was a 1988 graduate of Sulligent High School and a member of Sulligent First Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Mandy Weeks and J.K. and Ruby Nolen. She is survived by her parents, Dale and Margaret Nolen of Sulligent; husband, Tony Martin of Sulligent; sons, Logan and Austin Martin, both of Sulligent; grandfather, Walter Weeks; sisters, Laketa Mosley of Detroit, Ala., and Tonya Carruth and Brandy Cranford, both of Sulligent. Pallbearers will be Eric and Dakota Carruth, Lee Mosley, James Pennington, Matt Box and Mike Thomas.
Vernell Elaine Watson
VERNON, Ala. - Vernell Elaine Watson, 74, died April 30, 2009, at Fayette Medical Center. Services were Saturday at Chandler Funeral Home with Jesse Phillips officiating. Burial followed at Rowan Cemetery in Vernon. Mrs. Watson was born April 28, 1935, in Lamar County, Ala. She was a homemaker. She is survived by her daughter, Betty Humbers of Vernon, Ala.; six grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Paul Junior White
COLDWATER, Mich. - Paul Junior White, 53, formerly of the Gattman and Sulligent, Ala., area, died April 25, 2009, in Michigan. Services were Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Peoples Tabernacle Church with Bros. Phillip and Stanley Blaylock officiating. Burial followed in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery. Otts Funeral Home of Sulligent was in charge of the arrangments. Mr. White was born April 9, 1956, in Freeport, Ill., to the late Artis and Frances Earline Blaylock White. He attended Peoples Tabernacle in Sulligent, Ala., and attended Auburn High School in Rockford, Ill. He worked as a plumber in the construction business. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Roy White. He is survived by his sons, Jason White of Des Moines, IA., and Paul Junior White of Amory; brothers, Daniel Blaylock and Al White, both of Hamilton, Troy White of Phoenix and Coy White of Coldwater; sisters, Frances Hutson of Greenwood Springs, Mary Rosales of Hamilton and Faye White of Plymouth, Mich.; and three grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Tommy and John Hutson, Junior and Anthony Escobar, Jose Rosales and Dustin Marshall.
Levi Martin Williams
Levi Martin Williams, 81, formerly of Lamar County, Ala., died April 30, 2009, at the Aurora Australis Lodge in Columbus. Services are Monday at 2 p.m. at the Otts Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Bobby Cobb officiating. Burial will follow at Macedonia Cemetery. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Williams was born Dec. 11, 1927, in Lamar County, Ala., to the late Jim and Maggie Pennington Williams. He was a truck driver for C.L. Harrison and sold produce for several years. He was a Baptist. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Williams; brothers, Otto and Richard Williams. He is survived by his sons, Edwin Harris and Larry Williams, both of Caledonia; daughters, Annette Parker and Lois Boothe, both of Steens, and Yvonne Geer of Caledonia; 13 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Pallbearers will be Levi Williams, Derick Harris, Micheal and Gary Rush, John Blair and John Geer.
Tom Chamberlain, Jr.
CRESTVIEW, Fla. - Tom Chamberlain, Jr., 83, died April 23, 2009, at Parthenon Healthcare Center in Crestview. Services are Saturday at 1 p.m. at New Shiloh Church with the Rev. Theodore Chamberlain Sr. officiating. Burial will follow at New Shiloh Cemetery in Shuqualak. Visitation is today from noon-5 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Macon. Mr. Chamberlain was born Nov. 12, 1926, in Shuqualak, to the late Georgia and Tom Chamberlain Sr. He is survived by his daughter, Peggy Edwards of Moss Point; sons, Theodore Chamberlain Sr. of Crestview, Fla., Tommy Chamberlain of Pascagoula, Fla., Sammy Chamberlain of Shuqualak and John Thomas Winston of St. Louis; brother, John Walter Chamberlain of Crestview, Fla.; sisters, Bernice Dancy of Shuqualak and Geraldine Chamberlain of East St. Louis, Ill.; and two grandchildren. Pallbearers will be family and friends.
Dorothy W. Ford
KOSCIUSKO - Dorothy W. Ford, 84, died April 29, 2009, at University Medical Center. Services are Saturday at 10 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Kosciusko with the Rev. Byrd Hillman officiating. Burial will follow at Parkway Cemetery. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at Jordan Funeral Home in Kosciusko. Mrs. Ford was born March 8, 1925, in Kosciusko to the late William and Ester Webster. She was an honor graduate of Kosciusko High School and Millsaps College, where she was a member of Phi Mu Sorority. She was a flight attendant for Delta Airlines in Atlanta. She was a member of First United Methodist Church and taught Sunday school for several years and was a longtime member of the Mrs. Walter V. Davis Class. She was a former member of the Book Lover's Club, Friends of Attala County Library and a founding member of the Little Garden Club. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Jean W. Newman, and husband, William R. Ford Sr. She is survived by her son, Dr. William R. Ford Jr. of Columbus; and two grandchildren.
Joe Darrell Hollingsworth
GORDO, Ala. - Joe Darrell Hollingsworth, 49, died April 29, 2009, at his residence. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Skelton Funeral Home Chapel in Reform, Ala., with the Revs. Jerry Montgomery, Jerry Robbins and Shawn McDaniel officiating. Burial will follow at Salem Cemetery. Visitation is Saturday for one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Mr. Hollingsworth was born Nov. 17, 1959, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. He was a licensed funeral director, having served in Pickens County and Tuscaloosa County for many years in the funeral industry. He was a member of Highland Baptist Church in Gordo and a lifelong resident of Pickens County. He was preceded in death by his father, Enis L. Hollingsworth; and grandparents, Jim Tom and Emma Hicks, and Wilkens and Tera Hollingsworth. He is survived by his mother, Ervine Hollingsworth of Gordo; sister, Diane Morris of Gordo; and brother, Douglas Hollingsworth of Gordo. Pallbearers will be Andy Jackson, Billy Gulledge, Jason Wyatt, Earl Mitchell, Raiford Boothe, Ronnie Howard, Stan Morrison and Sam Strickland.
Gracie Ella "Honey" McCoy
Gracie Ella "Honey" McCoy died April 26, 2009, at Macon General Hospital in Macon. Services are Sunday at 2 p.m. at Christian Love MB Church in Macon with the Rev. E.B. Tate officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is Saturday from noon-6 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Macon. Mrs. McCoy was born June 23, 1922, in Prairie Point to the late Fannie and Al Gilkey. She was a member of Christian Love MB Church in Prairie Point. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Willie D. McCoy; brothers, Tommie C., Rob, Alfred and Will Gilkey; and sister, Fannie Mae Outlaw. She is survived by her daughter, Lizzie Mae Patterson of St. Louis; sons, Willie C. McCoy and Willie McCoy Jr., both of St. Louis, and Samuel Earl McCoy of Jackson; sisters, Maude Smith, and Willie Ruth, Mary Ann and Mary Frances Gilkey, all of Macon, Daisy Gilkey and Ruby McCoy, both of Jackson, Willie Mae Gilkey of Birmingham, Ala., and Ella Mae Paige of Wyteke, Ill.; brothers, Lonzell and John B. Gilkey, both of Macon; three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Troy Bryant and Willie Jr., Rodney, Demetris, Patrick and Anthony Outlaw.
Harrison "Sugar Pete" McMillian
MACON - Harrison "Sugar Pete" McMillian, 62, died April 24, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Millers Chapel MB Church with the Rev. Nathaniel D. Houston Sr. officiating. Burial will follow at Oddfellow Cemetery in Macon. Visitation is today from noon-5 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Macon. Mr. McMillian was born August 24, 1946, in Noxubee County to the late Henry and Lula Stewart McMillian. He is survived by his son, Pete Canady of Milwaukee; daughter, Katina Johnson of Milwaukee; brothers, Jimmy Taylor of Memphis, Tenn., John Hughes of Columbus, and John B., Chet and Morgan McMillian, all of Macon; and sisters, Mary Mountain of Omaha, Neb., Lula Thomas, Betty Jones of Chicago and Shellie Holmes of Columbus; and four grandchildren. Pallbearers will be family and friends.
David Alan Oswalt
David Alan Oswalt, 55, steam fitter for Local Pipe Fitters #614, died Sunday, April 26, 2009 at the Regional Medical Center in Memphis. Mr. Oswalt was born July 22, 1953, in Memphis and was a Baptist. He enjoyed fishing, camping, and loved animals. Visitation will be Friday, May 1 from 9 a.m. until the service begins at 10 a.m. at Twin Oaks Funeral Home in Southaven, MS. Burial will be in Columbus, MS. He was preceded in death by his nephew, Jason Wallace. Survivors include three daughters - Alieah Ward (Eli) of Columbus, Carley L. Adams of Columbus, and Laura Oswalt of Shreveport, LA; his parents - Robert and Marie Oswalt of Memphis; one brother - John Oswalt (Carol) of Lakeland, TN; two sisters - Becky Jewell (Woody) of Oakland, TN and Teresa Dickerson (Butch) of Hernando, MS; and five grandchildren - Shelby, Aly, Ashley Kate, Rebecca, and Evan. Pallbearers will be Robbie Jewell, Ritchie Jewell, Brett Dickerson, Robert Dickerson, Woody Jewell, and John Oswalt, Jr.
William Walton, Jr.
William Walton, Jr., 75, died April 28, 2009, in Columbus. Memorial services are Saturday at 1 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home Chapel of Columbus. Mr. Walton was born July 15, 1933, to the late William and Willie Walton. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia; three brothers and one sister. He is survived by his sons, William Henry Rich of Arizona, James T. Rice and Willie and Johnny Walton, all of Columbus, and Gerome Walton of Utah; daughters, Terrie Slaughter of McDonough, Ga., and Ruth Walton of Columbus; 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
David Eugene Higgins
VERNON, Ala. - David Eugene Higgins, 62, died April 28, 2009, at his residence. Services are Friday at 2 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home in Vernon with Craig Chandler and Eddie Finch officiating. Burial will follow at Lamar Memory Gardens in Vernon. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Higgins was born March 30, 1947, in Birmingham, Ala., to the late Roscoe and Hilda Higgins. He was an electrician and a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He is survived by his daughter, Brittany Higgins of Vernon; Brenda Higgins; and sisters, Jane Cleveland of Jasper, Ala. Pallbearers will be Hugh Windle, Bud McReynolds, Banks Hathoway, Rick Carter and Larry Hankins.
Ethel Dell Rogers
STARKVILLE - Ethel Dell Rogers, 63, died April 25, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center–Tupelo. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Sixteenth Section Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. William A. Richardson officiating. Burial will follow at Sixteenth Section Cemetery in Starkville. Visitation is Friday from noon-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Starkville. Mrs. Rogers was born in Starkville. She was a homemaker and a Baptist. She is survived by her husband, James L. Rogers Sr. of Starkville; son, James Rogers Jr. of Starkville; mother, Adell Bell of Starkville; brother, Bert Lee Flowers of Starkville; four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Lillian Westfall
Lillian Westfall, 94, died April 28, 2009, at Aurora Australis Lodge in Columbus. Graveside services are Friday at 10 a.m. at Forest Cemetery near Ethelsville, Ala., with the Rev. Melvin Mordecai officiating. Gunter & Peel Funeral Home of Columbus is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Westfall was born May 9, 1914, in Lamar County, Ala., to the late J.L. and Lura Coleman Lavender. She attended Immanuel Baptist Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Sherman Westfall. She is survived by her sisters, Ouida Shelnutt of Columbus and Margaret Woods of Calera, Ala. Pallbearers will be her nephews.
Tip Smith Easley
Tip Smith Easley, 88, died April 28 at Trinity Healthcare Center in Columbus, MS. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will be at Memorial Funeral Home on Thursday, April 30, 2009 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Services wiil be Friday, May 1, 2009 at 10:00 AM in the chapel of Memorial Funeral Home. Officiating at the funeral will be Rev. Mickey Dalrymple, and Rev. Ron McDougald. Following the funeral, she will be buried next to her husband James William Easley at Friendship Cemetery, in Columbus, MS. Mrs. Easley was born on Thursday, September 23, 1920, in Fayette County, AL to the late Thomas Jefferson and Doshie Savage Smith. One of eleven children, she was predeceased by her parents, six sisters, three brothers and her husband James William Easley. A life-long resident of Columbus and a long-time member of East End Baptist Church, she became a member of Fairview Baptist when she moved to Trinity Place. She was a member of Eastern Star and a former member of Broadacres Homemakers Club. She had been an active participant in Senior Olympics and an active member of AARP. She is survived by her son Buddy Easley (Kathy) and daughters Frances Ann Easley Hawkins and Glenda Easley Beard (Wayne) all of Columbus, MS, Carolyn Easley Blake(Phil) of Dover-Foxcroft, ME, Cynthia Easley McGee (Forrest, Jr.) of Glen Allen, VA and Rose Easley Coggins(Danny) of Starkville, MS. She is also survived by her sister Juanita Kelly of Quincy, FL, seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Jeff Coggins, Philip Coggins, Eddie Hawkins, Sean Lytle, Bubba Comer and Jack McGee.
Virginia P. Robert
Virginia P. Robert died Monday, April 27, 2009 at St. Martin’s In The Pines Retirement Home in Birmingham , Ala. She died from natural causes. Visitation will be conducted at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbus Wednesday, April 29 between the hours of 6 p.m and 8 p.m. She will be laid to rest at Memorial Park Cemetery next to her husband, Paul Robert, who preceded her in death in 1970. Mrs. Robert was born and raised in Memphis, Tenn. , and later worked for more than 30 years in Columbus, Miss. as the office manager for Dr. William C. Sanders. She is survived by her son Greg Robert of Birmingham, Ala., her daughter Susan Lindley of New Orleans, La., her brother Tom Grissom of Charlotte, N.C., her sister Amanda Herstoff of Memphis, Tenn., her granddaughter Virginia “Ginny” Lindley of Columbus, Miss., and her grandson Daniel Robert of Birmingham, Ala.
Lester Evelyn Mitchell DeLong
MIDWEST CITY, Okla. - Lester Evelyn Mitchell DeLong, 87, died April 25, 2009, at Hospice Quality Care in Dell City, Okla. Services are today at 3 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Dr. Lloyd Sweatt officiating. Burial will follow at Haughton Memorial Park. Visitation is today for two hours prior to services at the funeral home. Mrs. DeLong was born Feb. 6, 1921, in Amory to the late Arthur and Daisy Mitchell. She was a member of the Meadowood Baptist Church in Midwest, Texas. She was president for several terms of AARP in Midwest City. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ross Edwin DeLong Sr. She is survived by her son, Ross Edwin DeLong Jr. of San Antonio; daughters, Margaret Pederson of Luther, Okla., and Linda K. Young of Arcadia, Okla.; six brothers; one sister; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Ross Erick DeLong, Richard Young, Earnest Mitchell and other family members.
Samuel Ralph Windle, Sr.
CARROLLTON, Ala. - Samuel Ralph Windle, Sr., 92, died April 27, 2009, at his residence. Services are Thursday at 11 a.m. at Carrollton Baptist Church with Dr. P. Joe Whitt and the Revs. Parker Windle, Tommy Winders and Ralph Windle Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at Carrollton City Cemetery. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at Skelton Funeral Home of Reform, Ala., and the body will be at the church Thursday one hour prior to services. Mr. Windle was born April 1, 1917, in Kirk, Ala., to the late Minnie and Cole Windle. He was a self-employed businessman who had operated a lumber business, hardware store, clothing stores and a grocery store. In the mid 1950's, he served for four years as a representative in the state legislature in Montgomery, Ala. He was a member of Carrollton Baptist Church since 1945, and he was elected deacon emeritus at the church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Ruby Pearl Parker Windle; and sisters, Laura Poole and Genia Billings. He is survived by his daughter, Emily W. Kirk of Carrollton; sons, Ralph Windle Jr. of Columbus and Dennis Windle of Northport, Ala.; sisters, Dot Walters and Jeweleen Burkhalter; brothers, Olen and Bobby Windle; five grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and three stepgreat-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Parker Windle, John and Jake McIntosh, Keith Reeves, Jason Pate and Sam White.
Malcolm Wilson "Mack" Alexander, Sr.
CARROLLTON, Ala. - Malcolm Wilson "Mack" Alexander Sr., 96, died April 26, 2009, at Pickens County Medical Center. Memorial services were today at 11 a.m. at Carrollton United Methodist Church with the Rev. Tom Hammons officiating. Private graveside services were held at Carrollton City Cemetery. Skelton Funeral Home of Reform, Ala., was in charge of arrangements. Mr. Alexander was born April 4, 1913, in Clarke County to the late Robert Milton Alexander and Edna Crawford Alexander. He was a member of Carrollton United Methodist Church, a retired mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Service and a U.S. Army veteran. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Ervie J. Alexander; brothers, Hubert Alexander and Robert M. Alexander II; and sister, Ellen A. McPherson. He is survived by his daughter, Claudia A. Lewis of Aliceville, Ala.; sons, Malcolm Wilson Alexander Jr. of Fairhope, Ala., and John Cary Alexander of Huntsville, Ala.; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Laudia A. Gregg
Laudia A. Gregg, 102, died April 22, 2009, at Care Center of Vernon. Graveside services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Greenwood Cemetery with the Rev. Al Green officiating. Robinson Funeral Home of West Point is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Gregg was born Feb. 1, 1907, in Fayette, Ala. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Columbus. She was preceded in death by her husband, Eza Gregg; and son, Billy Joe Gregg. She is survived by her son, Gene Gregg of Columbus; seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren.
Elkin Pick Homan
SHANNON - Elkin Pick Homan, 87, died April 26, 2009, at The Meadows in Fulton. Services are Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Lee Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Verona with the Revs. Jimmy Bryan and Dean Moody officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Lee Memorial Park. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. and Wednesday for one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Mr. Homan was born April 3, 1922, in the Pontocola Community to the late Andrew Pick and Velma Frances Mask Homan. He was a charter member and deacon of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church. He was a retired pipe fitter and a member of Plumbers and Steamfitters Local No. 102 in Knoxville, Tenn. He helped build missile sites in the west and many projects for the Tennessee Valley Authority. After retirement he repaired small engines. He was a veteran of World War II and a sergeant in the Eighth Army Air Force. He was in combat in Africa and England. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, James, Farris and Alfred Homan; and sisters, Clytee Ethridge, Nell Clark and Louise McFarling. He is survived by his wife, Varnell McCaleb Homan of Fulton; daughters, Linda Shelton of Columbus, Janice Boone of Shannon and Lisa Howell of Pontotoc; sons, Larry Elkin Homan of Fulton and Andrew Pick Homan of Clinton; brother, Holder Homan of Brewer; seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Drew, Clay, Michael and Matthew Homan, Grant Howell and Homan McFarling.
Charles A. Davis, III
MILLPORT, Ala. - Charles A. Davis, III, 66, died April 24, 2009, at DCH Regional Medical Center. Services are today at 3 p.m. at Christian Chapel Church of Christ with Jesse Phillips and Connie Myers officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery in Vernon, Ala. Visitation is today for two hours prior to services at the church. Chandler Funeral Home of Vernon is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Davis was born Feb. 13, 1943, in Lamar County, Ala. He worked as an insurance agent with State Farm. He is survived by his wife, Sharon Davis of Millport; sons, Patrick W. Davis of Northport, Ala., Chris Davis of Coker, Ala., and Charles Davis IV of Millport, Ala.; brother, Harvie Davis of Tuscaloosa, Ala.; sister, Mary Elmore of Northport, Ala.; and six grandchildren.
Mildred Reed Carter Egger
AMORY - Mildred Reed Carter Egger, 94, died April 24, 2009, at her residence. Services were today at 10 a.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Bro. Tim Cunningham officiating. Burial followed at Masonic Cemetery. Mrs. Egger was born Nov. 13, 1914, in Monroe County to the late Lucas J. and Zula Tubb Carter. She was a lifelong resident of Monroe County and a graduate of Hatley High School. She was a homemaker and had worked for Amory Garment Co., Wilson's Manufacturing and Glenn Manufacturing. She was a member of the New Hope Primitive Baptist Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Elbert Clinton Egger; and brothers, Troy, Delray, Trenton and Willard Carter. She is survived by her daughters, Betty Bourland of Aberdeen and Peggy Bethany of Amory; brother, O.G. Carter of Amory; five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Pallbearers were Terry, Scottie, Jerry, Leon and Shelby Carter, Junior Pickle and Mike Riley.
Margaret Watkins Hailey
GHOLSON - Margaret Watkins Hailey, 81, died April 24, 2009, at Jeff Anderson Regional Hospital-Meridian. Services were Sunday at 2 p.m. at Cockrell Funeral Home of Macon with Bro. Steve Reynolds and Bro. Gerald Butler officiating. Burial followed at Shuqualak Cemetery in Shuqualak. Mrs. Hailey was born Nov. 5, 1927, in Kemper County to the late Thomas W. and Annie Persons West. She moved to Wahalak and was a graduate of Kemper County schools. She was a homemaker and a member of Shuqualak Baptist Church and Order of Eastern Star. She and her husband were owners and operators of Gholson Cash Store for more than 20 years. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Thomas Wardell West; sister, Eloise Moffett; and husband, Jimmy Watkins. She is survived by her husband, Levin Hailey of Shuqualak; sons, W.G. Watkins of Madison and Billy Watkins of Ridgeland; sisters, Dorothy Faye Coleman of Slaughter, Ernestine Forsman of Alabama, Ermagene Bryan of Meridian and Lila Hammond of Winona; brother, Billy E. West of Columbus; six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers were Trey, Taylor and Todd Watkins, Ron Veazey, Kevin Cantrell, Daniel McFatter, Kent Hailey, Robert Weaver, Len Coleman and Larry Conner.
Gordon Mitchell Langford
AMORY - Gordon Mitchell Langford, 82, died April 26, 2009, at Community Hospice-Darlington Oaks in Verona. Services are Tuesday at 11 a.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Bro. Charles Burton officiating. Burial will follow at Haughton Memorial Park. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. and will continue until service time on Tuesday at the funeral home. Mr. Langford was born Sept. 22, 1926, in Greenfield, Tenn., to the late James Watkins and Vivian Rachels Langford. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and the Korean War, and he was a member of the American Legion. He had lived in Jackson and in Amory since 1956. Before retirement, he owned and operated Amory Electric and Amory Marine Sales for 53 years. He was a member of the St. Andrew's United Methodist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Billy Langford. He is survived by his wife, Imogene Nabors Langford; sons, Rodney, Gerald and Michael Langford, all of Amory, Herbert Langford of Nettleton and Richard Langford of Tupelo; daughter, Sharon Langford of Tupelo; brother, Charles Langford of Amory; 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Chris Finn, and Eric, Corey, Chad, Ethan and Drew Langford.
Ruby Gray Matthews
VERNON, Ala. - Ruby Gray Matthews, 100, died April 26, 2009, at Care Center of Vernon. Services are Tuesday at 2 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home in Vernon with Glen Boman and Sonny McLellan officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery in Vernon. Visitation is Tuesday for one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Mrs. Matthews was born Jan. 22, 1909, in Lamar County, Ala. She was a housewife. She is survived by her son, John Matthews of Vernon; daughter, Mary Elna Rector of Jasper, Ala.; four grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.
Wayne G. Todd
Wayne G. Todd, 58, died April 25, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis, Tenn. Memorial services are Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Green Oaks Golf Course. Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Columbus is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Todd was born Sept. 1, 1950, in Wichita Falls, Texas. He was a practicing certified registered nurse anesthetist for 28 years. He spent his final 13 years practicing with the anesthesia group of Oktibbeha County Hospital in Starkville. He graduated from Wichita Falls High School in 1968 and from Minneapolis School of Anesthesia in 1981. He is survived by his wife, Laurie Todd of Columbus; son, Travis of Madison, Wis.; daughter, Lisa of Tulsa, Okla.; mother, Jean Lynch of Wichita Falls, Texas; brother, Herbert Jr., Stan and Andy Todd, all of Wichita Falls; and sisters, Linda Cavosos of Fort Worth, Texas, and Betty Browning of Wichita Falls.
Matilde Agnese Boman
VERNON, Ala. - Matilde Agnese Boman, 73, died April 22, 2009, at Hospice of West Ala. Services are Monday at 10 a.m. at Chandler Funeral Home with the Rev. Tim Pfander officiating. Burial will follow at Furnace Hill Cemetery in Vernon. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Boman was born Jan. 21, 1936, in Italy. She is survived by her husband, Billy Box Boman of Vernon; sons, Robert William Boman of Sulligent, Ala., and Daniel Angelo Boman; daughter, Monica Turesina Breedan of Wash.; sisters, Maria Rosa Bupi and Giovanna Ghedi, both of Italy; and five grandchildren.
Peggy Joyce Taylor Carson
OKOLONA - Peggy Joyce Taylor Carson, 63, died April 24, 2009, at her residence. Services are today at 2 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Okolona with Bros. Truman Carter and Robert Earl Fowlkes officiating. Burial will follow at Howell Cemetery in Monroe County. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. and from 12-1:45 p.m. at the Okolona Chapel. Holland-Harris Funeral Home Directors of Okolona is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Carson was born Feb. 10, 1946, in Aberdeen to Easter Lee Woods Taylor and the late Thomas E. Taylor. She graduated from Aberdeen High School and from Itawamba Community College with a degree in Business Administration. She was a Councilwomen serving on the Okolona City Counci and was a member of the Carnation Baptist Church in Okolona. She was preceded in death by her father, Thomas E. Taylor; son, Chad Sides; grandson, Cross. She is survived by her husband, Craig Carson of Okolona; mother, Easter Lee Woods Taylor of Aberdeen; daughters, Angel Steen of Tupelo, Amanda Brown of Bartahatchie, and Missy Graham of Columbus; sons, Dale Roberston of Bartahatchie, and Terry Roberston of Columbus; sisters, Judy Taylor and Betty Dye, both of Aberdeen; brothers, Charles Taylor of Tyrone, Ga., and Murrell Taylor of Mooreville; eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Bennie D. Cole
Bennie D. Cole, 76, of Columbus, MS passed away Friday, April 24, 2009,at his residence. Visitation was held Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 5-7 pm at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral services will be held Sunday, April 26, 2009 at 2 pm at Wesley United Methodist Church, Columbus, MS with Rev. Andy Pearson officiating. Mr. Cole will lie in state one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be in Friendship Cemetery, Coumbus, MS with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS, directing. Mr. Cole was born December 15, 1932 in Portia, AR to the late William Horace and Dollie Mikel Cole. He was a resident of Columbus, MS for the past 73 years having moved from Birmingham, AL. Mr. Cole was retired from First Columbus National Bank as a loan officer after 46 years of service. He was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church, Columbus, MS, East Columbus Lions Club, the Downtown Host Club and the East Columbus McDonald's Coffee Club. Mr. Cole loved hunting and fishing. Mr. Cole is survived by his wife - Mary Ann Moore Cole, Columbus, MS; children - Vicki (Fred) Keogh, Ft Atkinson, WI; and David Alan (Gina) Cole, Slidell, LA; brother - W.H. (Polly) Cole, Olive Branch, MS; sister - Joan (Max) Williamson, Smyrna, GA; grandchildren - Jeffery Keogh, Rachel Cole, Sarah Cole, Jonathan Cole and Elizabeth Cole. Pallbearers will be Max Williamson, W.V. West, Jonathan Cole, James Haynes, Karl Williams, Jim Hawkins, Glendal Reid, and Ralph Blackstock.
Ralph Wheeler Minga
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - Ralph Wheeler Minga, 89, died April 22, 2009, in Chattanooga. Graveside services were yesterday at 2 p.m. at the Lann Cemetery with Bro. Wes White officiating. Visitation was yesterday at 10 a.m. until 1:15 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home. Mr. Minga was born Oct. 9, 1919, in Greenwood Springs to the late James Ellis and Margarette Corra Odom Minga. He was a 1949 graduate of the University of Alabama and was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II serving in a submarine repair unit in Pearl Harbor. He was a Professional Engineer in Metallurgical Engineering and retired from Combustion Engineering. He was a life long member of the American Welding Society. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers and sisters, Theresa Smith, Doris O'Neal, Hansel, Rubel and Eugene Minga. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Minga of Chattanooga; son, David Minga of London, Ky.; daughters, Gail Minga of Atlanta, Ga., and Dorrie Minga LoBue of Evansville, Ind.; brother, Kermit Minga of Greenwood Springs; sisters, Jimmie Lois James of Houston, Ruth Whitehead of Smithville, and Ophelia Thomas of Collierville, Tenn.; and six grandchildren. Pallbearers will be grandsons and nephews.
Eva Dora Donald Roby
AMORY - Eva Dora Donald Roby, 96, died April 24, 2009, at the Gilmore Memorial Regional Medical Center in Amory. Services are today at 3 p.m. at the Bigbee Baptist Church with Bro. Tommy Whaley officiating. Burial will follow at the Dorsey Memorial Cemetery. Visitation is at 1 p.m. until service time at the church. E.E. Pickle Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Ms. Roby was born Dec. 3, 1912, in Itawamba County. She was a member of the Hatley Primitive Baptist Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd Arlin Roby; son, Jimmy Dale Roby; brothers, Charlie and Lyndon Donald; sisters, Billie Duncan, Jeriene and Mary Walton. She is survived by her three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Ted Donald, Sidney Kozlowitz, Brandon and Hunter Knight, Mike Sargent, and Dusty Thompson.
Laurie Cox Barber
Laurie Waring Cox Barber, 104, died April 24 at Trinity Healthcare Center. Graveside services will be April 26, 2pm at Friendship Cemetery, Dr. Sam Morris & Rev. Ron McDougald officiating. Memorial Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. Mrs. Barber was born June 27, 1904 in Columbus to the late William Edmond & Elizabeth Harris Waring, and was a member of First United Methodist Church. She is survived by her daughter, Laurie Cox (Fred) Hemphill of Mobile, AL; 6 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; a host of nieces & nephews; and all of her friends at Trinity Healthcare.
Regina Dawn Crosswhite
McCalla, AL-Dawn Crosswhite, 46, died April 22 at her residence. Services will be April 25, 2pm at Robinson Chapel, Rev. Ray Fields officiating. Burial will follow in West Point Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Visitation will be April 24, 5-8pm at Robinson Funeral Home, which is handling the arrangements. Mrs. Crosswhite was born May 14, 1962 in Birmingham, AL to Robert Young & Joyce Glascow, and was an associate pastor at Triumphant Church in Bessemer, AL. She is survived by her husband, Monte Crosswhite of McCalla, AL; parents, Robert Young & Joyce Glascow; sons, Kanaan Ford of Starkville & Keith Ford of West Point; daughter, Melissa Ford of West Point; step-son, Zane Crosswhite of West Point; brothers, Robert Young of Spring, TX, Rick Young of Brunswick, GA & Tommy Young of Huntsville, AL; sister, Rayne Herzog of Spring, TX; and a granddaughter, Brooklyn Latham of West Point. Pallbearers will be Greg Edmonds, Robert Young, Rick Young, Larry Brasfield, Bobby Colvin & Randy Howell.
Thelma Mary Scott Creely
AMORY - Thelma Mary Scott Creely, 101, died April 22, 2009, at Gilmore Memorial Regional Medical Center-Amory. Services are Saturday at 10 a.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home in Amory with the Revs. Allen Simpson, Jimmy McFatter, Hopson Boutot, Jack Maroon and Michael Boutot officiating. Burial will follow at Harmony Cemetery in Monroe County. Visitation will continue until service time at the funeral home on Saturday. Mrs. Creely was born June 22, 1907, in Monroe County to the late George and Margaret Florence Fuqua Scott. She lived most of her life in Monroe County. She worked as a sales person in several shops in Amory until she was in her eighties. During World War II, she was a supervisor at Gulf Ordinance Plant in Prairie. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, George Preston Creely. She is survived by her sons, Charles Preston Creely of Amory and Gerald Scott Creely of Greenwood; daughter, Mary Nell Creely Dorris of Amory; nine grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Dave and Scott Davis, Michael Boutot, and Mike, Van and Roger Creely.
Myra Lee Hanson
Myra Lee Hanson, 90, of Columbus, MS passed away Thursday, April 23, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-GT, Columbus, MS. Visitation will be Friday, April 24, 2009 from 6-8 pm at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 25, 2009 at 10am in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Steve Lammons officiating. Interment will be Spring Valley Cemetery, Mathiston, MS with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing. Mrs. Hanson was born March 23, 1919 in Starkville, MS to the late Walter L. and Myrtie Harpole. She was a resident of Columbus, MS for the past sixty years, having moved from Mathiston, MS. Mrs. Hanson was retired from American Bosch as a production line worker with 23 years of service. Everyone knew her as "Mamaw Hanson". She loved arts and crafts, especially flower arranging and quilting. Mrs. Hanson was a member of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, Columbus, MS. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband - Oscar Frank Hanson; daughter - Dorothy Fowler; sons - James Hanson, William Earl Hanson, Jimmy Hanson; sister - Ella Mae Raines and brother - Walter Lee Harpole, Jr. Mrs. Hanson is survived by her daughter - Betty (Albert) Coleman, Columbus, MS; sons - Milton Hanson, Columbus, MS; Carl (Wilda) Hanson, Chattanooga, TN and Billy (Ginger) Hanson, Columbus, MS; grandchildren - Patricia Harris, Diane Moore, Melissa Howard, Larry Coleman, Doug Coleman, Andy Coleman, Leslie Hanson, Karla Harwood, Hollie Hanson, Jill H. Wigfield, Jason Hanson, Joey Hanson, Clint Hanson, Stanley Hanson and Crystal Hanson; ten great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild and a host of nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be her grandsons.
Lou Ollie Mae Hood
AMORY - Lou Ollie Mae Hood, 90, died April 22, 2009, at Gilmore Memorial Regional Medical Center-Amory. Services are Saturday at 3:30 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Bro. Jim Manley, Bro. Tommy Whaley and Bro. Shane Crawford officiating. Burial will follow at Old Union Cemetery near Cason. Visitation is today from 5-7 p.m. and will continue until service time on Saturday at the funeral home. Mrs. Hood was born May 30, 1918, in Monroe County to the late William Shipman and Janie Moore Adams. She worked as a seamstress for Wilson's Mfg. and Amory Garment Co. She also worked for Golden Living Center and had been a volunteer for Gilmore Memorial Hospital. She was a member of the Cason Baptist Church where she was a member of Golden Believers and WMU. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Lamar Hood; brothers, Joe, James, Ed and Charles Adams; sisters, Clemmie, Mary, Myrtle and Nannie Mae Adams; two grandchildren, one great-grandson and two stepgranddaughters. She is survived by her sons, Roy Lamar Jr.,Billy R. , Jerry W. and Hershel D. Hood, all of Amory; daughter, Judy Hood Holman of Amory; sister, Bessie Adams Sloan of Nettleton; 14 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Taft Alford, Chris Francis, Jay Holman, and Lance, Ricky, Ronnie, Michael and Andy Hood.
Hershel Jones, Jr.
Hershel Jones, Jr., 65 of Caledonia, MS passed away Monday, April 13, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-GT, Columbus, MS. Visitation will be held Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 1 to 2 pm at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 25, 2009, at 2 pm at Lowndes Funeral Home with Bro. Nick Cannady officiating. Mr. Jones was born December 7, 1943 in Bowling Green, KY to Hershel Jones, Sr. and the late Mary Lucille Tucker Long and was a resident of Caledonia, MS for the past thirtyeight years, having moved from Fayetteville, TN. He was retired from Falcon/Phillips Construction with thirty-one years of service, he also enjoyed fishing and buck dancing. Mr. Jones is survived by his wife - Peggy Ann Jones, Caledonia, MS; sons - Hershel Jones, III, Greenville, MS; Randy Jones, Dallas, TX; Ferrell Jones, Wautoga, TX; David Weathers, Caledonia, MS; Bryan Jones, Caledonia, MS and Justin (Angela) Jones, Caledonia, MS; sister - Shirley Thorpe, Fayetteville, TN; brothers - Phillip Long and Dennis Long, both of Columbus, MS; grandchildren - Hershel Ray Glover, Nikki Jones, Devin Jordan, Ashlyn Jordan, Zack Weathers, Kristin Gann, Bridgett Jones, Gracie Jones, Declan Alan Jones, Dillon Campbell and Ross Sullivan.
Roosevelt Jones
ABERDEEN - Roosevelt Jones, 77, died April 16, 2009, at his residence. Services are Saturday at 1 p.m. at Greater Ebernezer MB Church with Pastor Kelvin Brownlee officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., and the body will be at the church Saturday one hour prior to services. Westbrooks Funeral Home of Aberdeen is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Jones retired from Bryan Brothers after 26 years of service. He was a member of Ebernezer MB Church. He is survived by his wife, Mary Jones; sons, Roosevelt Jones Jr. of Okolona, Odell Jones of Fort Riley, Kan., and Willie Joe, Richard and Michael Jones, all of Aberdeen; daughters, Flora Blanchard of Birmingham, Ala., Bobbie Moore of Prairie, and Rosetta Pulliam, Mary Townsend, Lillie Jones, Hattie Middlebrook, Alice Ewing and Cotina Jones, all of Aberdeen; brothers, Cleveland Jones of West Point and Joe Louis Jones of Aberdeen; sisters, Christine Franklin, Vampdell Quinn, Bessie Evans and Dorothy Jones, all of Aberdeen; 34 grandchildren and 48 great-grandchildren.
Robert Charles "R.C." Malone
MACON - Robert Charles "R.C." Malone, 77, died April 16, 2009, at University Medical Center-Jackson. Services were Tuesday at Hopewell MB Church in Brooksville with the Rev. George Cain officiating. Burial followed at the church cemetery. Westbrooks Funeral Home of Aberdeen was in charge of arrangements. Mr. Malone was a member of Hopewell MB Church and retired from Bryans after 21 years. He was preceded in death by his son, Robert Earl Malone; and one grandson. He is survived by his wife, Fannie Lewis Malone of West Point; sons, James Malone of Columbus and Ed Malone of Macon; stepsons, Michael, Matthew, Robert and Warren Lewis; daughters, Dorothy Hearn, Linda Robinson, Glenda Harlan and Ann Orr; stepdaughters, Joann Petty and Michelle Garth; brothers, the Rev. James Malone, and Jessie and Charlie Malone; 30 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.
Mary Lou McKinney
HOUSTON - Mary Lou McKinney, 81, died April 18, 2009, at Sanctuary Hospice House-Tupelo. Services are Saturday at 1 p.m. at Midway Missionary Baptist Church in Vardaman with the Rev. Willie B. Lairy officiating. Burial will follow at Midway Cemetery. Visitation is today from 5-7 p.m. at the church. Carter's Mortuary Services of West Point is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. McKinney was born June 13, 1927, in Vardaman to the late Elbert McKinney Sr. and Ella Mae Glaspie McKinney. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Willie J. Lynn McKinney; sons, James and Larry McKinney; sisters, Clytee, Fairy and Claudia McKinney; and brothers, Ester Lee McKinney and Willie Eugene McKinney. She is survived by her sons, Bueford McKinney of Fort Wayne, Ind., and Willie McKinney of Endfield, Conn.; daughters, Alma Wilder of Fort Wayne, Ind., Josephine Myles of Collierville, Tenn., and Ethel Jones of Houston; brothers, Bobby McKinney of Fort Wayne, Elbert McKinney of Saginaw, Mich., and Charles and James Al McKinney, both of Fort Wayne; 21 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.
Jerushia Stone
FULTON - Jerushia Stone, 82, died April l7, 2009, at Courtyard Nursing Facility in Fulton. Services were Wednesday at 1 p.m. at St. Matthew MB Church in Fulton with the Rev. J.C. Humphrey officiating. Burial followed at Shiloh Community Center. Westbrooks Funeral Home in Aberdeen was in charge of arrangements. Mr. Stone was a member of St. Matthew MB Church. He is survived by his son, the Rev. Larry Stone; brother, Fred Stone; sisters, Lydia Beasley, Yvonne Holley and Mildred Gladney; and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Creassie M. Young
STARKVILLE - Creassie M. Young, 74, died April 17, 2009, at her residence. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at East Sand Creek MB Church with the Rev. Tom Stallings officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Starkville. Mrs. Young was born in Oktibbeha County. She was a Baptist and worked as a certified nursing assistant. She is survived by her husband, Cornelia Young Sr. of Starkville; son, Cornelious Young Jr. of Starkville; sisters, Ellen and Lillie M. Randle, both of West Point, and Gracy Young and Hattie Dell Cromwell, both of Starkville; brother, Jessie James Kelly of Starkville; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Jesse Lloyd Taylor
Cedar Bluff-Jesse Lloyd Taylor, 83, died April 22 at University Medical Center in Jackson. Services will be April 26, 2pm from Calvert Funeral Home Chapel, Min. Tommy Lawson officiating. Burial will follow in Columbus Memorial Garden Cemetery. Calvert Funeral Home of West Point is handling the arrangements. Mr. Taylor was born Jan. 16, 1926 in Fulton to the late Jessie Lucille Price & Arthur Floyd Taylor, as well as step-father Henry August Fromm. He was a self-employed painting contractor and a member of 7th Day Adventist of Columbus. He was a Veteran of the US Army during WWII, and was preceded in death by his daughter, Mary Joyce Miller. He is survived by his wife, Mary Alice Lawson Taylor of Cedar Bluff; daughters, Elizabeth Carol Fisher of Mission Viejo, CA & Cheryl Lucille Tittle of Cedar Bluff; sons, Henry Taylor of Cape Girardeau, MO & Frank Taylor of Yucaipa, CA; 8 grandchildren; and 6 great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Christopher Armstrong, Matthew Armstrong, Henry Taylor, Frank Taylor, Carol Fisher & Billy Price.
Jeanell Jones Gentry
MACON - Jeanell Jones Gentry, 60, died April 21, 2009, at Pickens County Hospital-Carrollton, Ala. Services are Friday at 2 p.m. at Cockrell Funeral Home in Macon with Bro. Ervin Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Oddfellows Cemetery in Macon. Visitation is today from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Gentry was born May 29, 1948, in Meridian to the late Ethel Leona Stewart and Rufus Frank Waddell. She was a homemaker and a member of Westside Baptist Church. She attended Noxubee High School and had worked for Cal-Jac for a short time. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Leroy Waddell. She is survived by her daughter, Jackie Jones Montgomery of Aliceville, Ala.; sons, James, Frankie and Casey Jones, all of Macon, and Stephen Jones of Louisville; sisters, Bonnie Jean England of Chickasaw, Ala., and Diane Reese Owens of Arizona; brothers, Billy W. Reese of Simms, Ala., and Phillip Reese Chappell of Louisville; 13 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Dr. Travis Manning Pierce
AMORY - Dr. Travis Manning Pierce, 85, died April 21, 2009, at Oak Tree Plantation in Amory. Services are Friday at 1 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Amory with Dr. Allen Simpson and the Rev. Jimmy McFatter officiating. Burial will follow at Masonic Cemetery in Amory. Visitation is Friday for three hours prior to services at the church. E.E. Pickle Funeral Home of Amory is in charge of the arrangements. Dr. Pierce was born April 8, 1924, in Chattanooga, Tenn., to the late Marvin Travis and Ella Ophelia Robinson Pierce. He lived in several different places before moving to Tupelo in 1932. He graduated Tupelo High School and worked as a bookkeeper for Gulf Refining Co. in Tupelo. He entered the U.S. Army Air Corps and received his pilot's wings in 1944 in Phoenix. After instructor's school, he trained for and became a B-17 first pilot and later a B-29 copilot. He served in the Air Corps until 1946. He later served at Keesler Field and then was assigned to Kearns, Utah. After the war, he managed Joyce Optical Service for two years and he attended The Southern College of Optometry in Memphis and received his Doctor of Optometry degree. He established his practice in Amory for many years before forming a partnership with Dr. A.F. Hodges until his retirement. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Amory, serving as a deacon and Sunday School Department director. He was past president of Mississippi Optical Foundation and past president of Mississippi Optical Association. He was past president of Amory Rotary Club, a Paul Harris Fellow, a 50 year member, and an honorary member. He served on the Amory Board of Adjustments from 1960-June 2003 and with the American Legion for 50 years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister. He is survived by his wife, Gene Stratton Carr Pierce of Amory; sons, Bruce Pierce of Wichita, Kan., and Philip Pierce of St. Louis; daughters, Pamela Sullivan of Columbus, Patti Edwards of Meridian and Charlotte Markow of Huntsville, Ala.; 10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Jerry Reese, Bud Everett, Ken Vaughn, Dan Rogers, Larry Palmer and Tommy Parish.
Ardean Richardson
ETHELSVILLE, Ala. - Ardean Richardson, 70, died April 16, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Macedonia CME Church with Pastor Johnnie Doverr officiating. Burial will follow at Strawbridge Cemetery in Ethelsville. Visitation is Friday from noon-8 p.m. at Lavender Funeral Home in Aliceville. Mrs. Richardson was born Sept. 18, 1938, to the late Callie and Eli Hudgins. She had been a member of Rocky Ridge Baptist Church and Macedonia CME Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Richardson; son, Douglas Richardson; and brothers, Charlie Will, Forest, Curtis and Eli Jr. She is survived by her daughters, Lisa Miller and Gail Doss, both of Ethelsville; sons, Willie James Richardson of Ellisville, Ala., and Nathaniel Richardson of Reform, Ala.; sisters, Christine Harris and Willice T. Latham, both of Reform, Ala., Minnie Bell Foster of Millport, Ala., and Ella T. Horton of Parrish, Ala.; 11 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
James Arthur "Jim" Shirley
WEST POINT - James Arthur "Jim" Shirley, 70, died April 22, 2009, at his residence. Services are Saturday at 10 a.m. at First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Don Bishop officiating. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in West Point. Visitation is Friday from 5-8 p.m. at Calvert Funeral Home in West Point, and the body will be at the church one hour prior to services on Saturday. Mr. Shirley was born July 10, 1938, in West Point to the late Agnes Shepherd and William Travis Shirley. He graduated from West Point High School and received a Bachelor of Science degree from Mississippi State University, where he was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity. He attended Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, Fla., and received a commission in the U.S. Navy. He was a naval aviator who served for six years on active duty and 20 years in the Naval Reserve, retiring with the rank of Lt. Commander. He served as director of industrial development for Delta Council in Stoneville. He received a Master of Business Administration degree from Delta State University in 1975. He was an educator who taught math in the Lowndes County and West Point public school systems. He was a member of First United Methodist Church and previously served on the administrative board and was a Sunday school teacher. He is survived by his wife, Julia Campbell Shirley; son, Art Shirley of West Point; daughters, Susan Shirley Valentine of Nashville, Tenn., and Beth Shirley Stone of Tupelo; brothers, Milford Shirley of Pensacola, Fla., and Robert Shirley of Madison; sister, Betty Shirley Riser of Jackson, Mo.; and eight grandchildren Pallbearers will be Bob Wyman, Eugene Bailey, Doug and Jimmy Wood, Will Shirley and Carr Valentine.
Walter Frank Spruill
Walter Frank Spruill, 77, died April 17, 2009, at Starkville Manor Nursing Home. Services are Friday at 2 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services Chapel in Columbus. Burial will follow at Pilgrim Rest Cemetery. Visitation is today from noon-6 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Spruill was born Feb. 2, 1932, in Columbus to the late Richard and Callie Spruill. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Spruill; sons, Joe Louis Briggs and Gregory Wells; sister, Lizzie Hughes; brothers, Jerry, Hunter and Climon Spruill; and daughter, Alice Wells. He is survived by his sisters, Ora B. Warfield, Clea Carter, Onita Hufford and Margaret Agnew, all of Battle Creek, Minn.; brothers, Richard Spruill of Battle Creek, Lewis Spruill of Minnesota and Roosevelt Spruill of Vero Beach, Fla.; five grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Tim Edwards, Arsenio and Alphonzo Wells, Rico Godfrey, Aaron Douglass and Lonnell Thompson Jr.
Clifton Wilkerson
LOUISVILLE - Clifton Wilkerson, 80, died April 21, 2009, at Specialty Hospital-Meridian. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Butler Pentecostal Church near Shuqualak with Bro. Bobby Joe Butler and Bro. Gerald Butler officiating. Burial will follow at Butler Cemetery near Shuqualak. Visitation is Friday from 6-8 p.m. at Cockrell Funeral Home in Macon. Mr. Wilkerson was born Oct. 24, 1928, to the late Jewel and Lester Wilkerson. He was born and grew up in Noxubee County. He worked as a truck driver and on a pipeline for many years, and he farmed in his later years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Onie Vaughn Wilkerson. He is survived by his wife, Bonnie Wilkerson of Walnut Ridge, Ark.; daughters, Judy Jones of Dayton, Texas, and Linda Nichols of Wayside; son, Ray Wilkerson of Louisville; 11 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.
T. Carleton Billups, IV
Dallas, TX-Thomas Carleton Billups IV, 94, died April 19, 2009. Graveside services will be May 5, 1:30pm at Friendship Cemetery, The Very Reverend James F. Carlyle of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church officiating. Memorial Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. A member of two Lowndes County pioneer families, Mr. Billups was born April 18, 1915 in Columbus to Thomas Carleton & Lenore Hardy Billups. He was the fourth generation of his family to be born in the antebellum home, Whitehall. His early memories included riding to church in his grandmother’s carriage, taking the train between Columbus and Billups Gate, and hunting and fishing in the Prairie during the growing season. After attending Packard Business School in New York, he had a seat in 1934 on the foreign exchange desk of Termini and Company at 30 Wall Street. He lived in Manhattan with his aunt and uncle, Columbus natives Dr. John D. Richards & Marcella Billups Richards. Dr. Richards taught him the game of polo and in the years before WWII he enjoyed the sport along the eastern seaboard during one of the game’s historic periods. At the onset of WWII, he joined the US Air Force and served as an instructor pilot in Greenville, SC. He taught student pilots to fly B-25s and was the only pilot at the base to hold a green instrument card. In 1944 his squadron delivered the first A-26 fighter bombers to Belgium via Puerto Rico, Brazil, the Ascension Islands and Africa. Stationed in France and Belgium, he flew seven combat missions with the 9th Air Force, 391st Bombardment Group, 575th Squadron. In 1943 he married Betty Atwood Wilder of Tyler, TX and he joined his father-in-law, Hugh J. Wilder, in the oil business in 1945, enjoying a long and distinguished career as an independent oil operator in TX and MS. He was instrumental in establishing the Norphlet as a productive formation in MS and remained active in the industry until his death. After living in Tyler for 40 years, Mr. Billups and his wife moved to Columbus where they lived on a plantation of his childhood until 2007 when they moved to Dallas. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Betty Wilder Billups; son, Thomas Carleton (Debra Huchel) Billups V of Artesia; daughter, Susan Billups (Dr. Ronald Howell) Underwood of Dallas; granddaughters, Anna Underwood (Dr. Andrew Buchanan) Small IV & Catherine Evan Underwood of Dallas, and Jacqueline Cameron Billups of Washington, DC; great granddaughters, Annabelle Carleton Small & Sarah Margaret Small of Dallas; sister, Ida Billups Ward of Columbus; and nephew, Rufus Alexander Ward of West Point.
Lucy Thompson
Lucy Virginia Thompson, 93, died April 20 at Trinity Healthcare. Services will be April 22, 2pm at Gunter & Peel Chapel, Pastor Floyd Smithey officiating. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery in Steens. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at Gunter & Peel Funeral Home, which is handling the arrangements. Miss Thompson was born May 28, 1915 in Caledonia to the late Paul & Jala Frances Pennington Thompson, and worked as a nurse at Columbus Hospital for over 20 years. She was an active member of Our Savior Lutheran Church, where she served with the Braille Ministry and as Sunday School Teacher. She is survived by several nieces and nephews. Her nephews will serve as pallbearers.
Debra McCotry Calvert
Dr. Debra McCotry Calvert, 55, died April 19, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Services are Saturday at 1 p.m. at Good News Church in Tupelo. Burial will follow at Yeates Chapel Cemetery. Visitation is Thursday from 1:15-6 p.m. at Carter Funeral Home in West Point and Friday from 4-8 p.m. at the church in Tupelo. Dr. Calvert was a 1971 graduate of West Point High School. She earned a bachelor's degree from The University of Louisville in 1978, a master's degree in 1987 from The University of Mississippi and a Ph.D. in educational leadership from Mississippi State University in 2001. She had worked as a special education teacher in Covington, Ky., from 1978-1983, a math, science and social studies teacher in Tupelo City School District from 1983-1987, guidance counselor in the Tupelo School District from 1987-1992, principal in Nettle School District from 1994-2004 and special education director from 2004-2009 in the Tupelo School District. She was a member of Good News Church in Tupelo. She was preceded in death by her father, Willie McCotry Sr.; and brothers, Jerry and Ray Mark McCotry. She is survived by her husband, Minister Tillmon Calvert III of Tupelo; sons, Darius Lamont and Marcus Bradford; mother, Annie Bell McCotry of West Point; brothers, William McCotry, Willie McCotry Jr., Bobby and James Lane, all of West Point, and Darnell Lane of Chicago; sisters, Willie Mae James, Georgia Ann McCotry, Linda K. Young and Jeannie Montenia McCotry, all of West Point, and the Rev. Dr. Essie Clark-George of Chicago; and five grandchildren.
Maurice Durell Delk
MILLPORT, Ala. - Maurice Durell Delk, 76, died April 19, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital. Services are today at 2 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home in Vernon, Ala., with Bro. Jamie Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Asbury Cemetery in Millport. Mr. Delk was born Dec. 4, 1932, in Lamar County, Ala., to the late Claudus Austin and Sennie Delk. He was a state trooper and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Larry Jo Delk; and one granddaughter. He is survived by his wife, Helen Delk of Millport; sons, Kenneth and Randy Delk, both of Millport; brothers, Donald and Charles Delk, both of Caledonia; two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Mary B. Petty
MACON - Mary B. Petty, 91, died April 17, 2009, at her residence. Services are Thursday at 11 a.m. at Providence MB Church with the Rev. Willie Ivy officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from noon-5 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Macon. Mrs. Petty was born March 15, 1918, to the late William and Corella Murry Bradford. She was a homemaker and a member of Providence MB Church, where she served on the Mother Board. She is survived by her daughter, Veola Lockett of Macon; son, Robert Hatter of Memphis, Tenn.; sisters, Emma Lou Conner of Macon and Lula Mae Guyton of Memphis; brothers, Auther Lee Bradford of Macon and Mose Bradford of St. Louis; 15 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be James, Jerry, Calvin and Dennis Lockett, John D. Cheatham and F.D. Brocks.
Charles E. Pollard
STARKVILLE - Charles E. Pollard, 54, died April 18, 2009, at his residence. Services were today at 11 a.m. at Meadowview Baptist Church with the Rev. Jason Middleton officiating. Burial followed at Fellowship Baptist Church Cemetery in Mathiston. Welch Funeral Home in Starkville was in charge of arrangements. Mr. Pollard was a retired cargo specialist for Exxon Mobil. He was also a member of Meadowview Baptist Church and a Mason. He is survived by his daughters, Caroline and Lauren Pollard, both of Starkville; mother, Joy Pollard of Starkville; sister, Rita Gallagher of Bartlett, Tenn.; brothers, Bob Pollard of Starkville and John Pollard of Dallas; and one grandson.
Maurice Durell Delk
MILLPORT, Ala. - Maurice Durell Delk, 76, died April 19, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital. Services are Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home in Vernon, Ala., with Bro. Jamie Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Asbury Cemetery in Millport. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Delk was born Dec. 4, 1932, in Lamar County, Ala., to the late Claudus Austin and Sennie Delk. He was a state trooper and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Larry Jo Delk; and one granddaughter. He is survived by his wife, Helen Delk of Millport; sons, Kenneth and Randy Delk, both of Millport; two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
William Phillip "Billy" Elam Sr.
ABERDEEN - William Phillip "Billy" Elam Sr., 81, died April 19, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Private memorial services will be held at a later date. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home of Aberdeen. Mr. Elam was born Aug. 6, 1927, in Memphis, Tenn., to the late Warren Dee Elam Sr. and Laura Bell Basinger Elam. He was a lifelong resident of Darracott Community and graduated from Aberdeen High School. He retired after 30 years as a fitter at B & W in West Point. He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church, and he was a U.S. Army veteran. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Dorothy Jeanette Jackson; and brother, Warren D. Elam Jr. He is survived by his wife, Onnie Ray Davis Elam of Aberdeen; sons, Phillip, Patrick and Kelly Elam, all of Aberdeen; five grandchildren, four stepgrandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Jessie Elizenberry
MASHPEE, Mass. - Jessie Elizenberry, 59, died April 15, 2009. Services were today at 11:30 a.m. at Chapman, Cole & Gleason Funeral Home in Mashpee. Burial followed at Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, Mass. Mr. Elizenberry was retired from the U.S. Air Force after 21 years of service. He was a member of various VFW Auxiliaries in southeastern Massachusetts and was currently post commander of the VFW in Bourne, Mass. He is survived by his wife, Zella Elizenberry; sons, Kedrick and Anthony Elizenberry; siblings, Sally Butler and Mary Hayden, both of Columbus, and Allen and Andy Elizenberry, both of Jackson; and his stepchildren and stepgrandchildren.
Minnie Hatcher Gilbert
EUPORA - Minnie Hatcher Gilbert, 81, died April 20, 2009, at Golden Living Center in Eupora. Services are Wednesday at 2 p.m. at First United Methodist Church with the Rev. James Caffey officiating. Burial will follow at Sapa Cemetery in Webster County. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at Wise Funeral Home in Eupora. Mrs. Gilbert was born May 27, 1927. She was a retired homemaker. She was preceded in death by her son, James G. Hatcher. She is survived by her daughters, Betty Edwards of Kentwood, La., Dorothy York of Reform, and Sue Ann Reed and Connie Lewis, both of Eupora; sons, Earnst Hatcher of Isola, Jerry and Eddie Hatcher, both of Grenada, Stacy Gilbert of Starkville, and Billy, J.C., Kenny, and John Hatcher, all of Eupora; sisters, Lora Belle Goodgine of Eupora, Reva Savanna Holmes of Boyle and Ader Mae Medders of Rosedale; 69 grandchildren, 70 great-grandchildren and 25 great-great-grandchildren.
Vester Dave "Dee" Harris
AMORY - Vester Dave "Dee" Harris, 79, died April 19, 2009, at Gilmore Memorial Regional Medical Center-Amory. Services are Wednesday at 2 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home in Amory with Bro. Mike Todd and Bro. Stan Blaylock officiating. Burial will follow at Hatley Cemetery. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home and will continue Wednesday until service time. Mr. Harris was born Jan. 25, 1930, in Nettleton to the late Walter Dave and Noma Hawkins Harris. He was a lifelong resident of Amory. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and was a retired machinist employed by Fabri-Valve in Amory. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Helen Bunch, Jewel Benton, and Chester Lee, J.C., Otis and Lester R. Harris. He is survived by his wife, Cordie Mae Humphries Harris of Amory; sons, Vester David Harris and Brent Alan Harris, both of Amory; daughter, Sherry Dale Sayset of Orlando Fla.; nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will Korey, Chris and Ricky Harris, Ronnie Griggs, Drew Plunkett and Lonnie Sayset.
Marjorie W. Saunders
WARNER ROBINS, Ga. - Marjorie W. Saunders, 86, died April 19, 2009. Services are Wednesday at 11 a.m. at McCullough Funeral Home Chapel in Warner Robins with Missy Blumenthal officiating. Burial will follow at Magnolia Park Cemetery. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Saunders was born on Nov. 24, 1922, in Scooba. On completion of beauty school in Meridian, she was employed by Frits and was asked to be the stylist for the star of a movie filmed in Meridian. She settled in Warner Robins in 1944. She opened her first shop in 1946. She was a member of the Warner Robins Ladies Auxiliary VFW Post 6605 and the Cosmetology Association. She was a Methodist. She was predeceased by her husband, Elmer D. Jackson; parents, Ernest B. Williams and Annie Mae Craig Williams; sisters, Sarah Williams Lavender Woodson and Ruby William Patty; and brother, Ernest B. Williams Jr. She is survived by her husband, Nathaniel Saunders Jr. of Warner Robins; son, Elmer D. Jackson Jr.; brother, John F. Williams; stepdaughter, Terry L. Wilson; stepson, Nathaniel H. Saunders III; seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
Lloyd James "Sonny" Rost
ATHENS COMMUNITY - Lloyd James "Sonny" Rost, 70, died April 17, 2009. Services were today at 11 a.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Pastor Jeff Brooks, Pastor James Wells and Bro. Tim McMillan officiating. Private burial followed at Greenbrier Cemetery. Mr. Rost was born Sept. 1, 1938, in Leroy, La., to the late Whitney Rost and Nolia Roy Dronet. He had lived in Lafayette, La., and in Athens for 26 years. Before retirement, he worked in oil fields and attended Amory Church of God. He served in the U.S. Army. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepfather, Walter Dronet. He is survived by his wife, Frances Gladney Rost of Athens; sons, Michael Rost of New Albany, Robbie Rost of Columbus, Shane Rost of Amory and Devin Rost of Vicksburg; daughters, Gwen Gilmore and Cheryl Brown, both of Athens; sister, Betty Joyce Conner of Shreveport, La.; 12 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Pallbearers were Michael, Robbie, Shane and Devin Rost, Charles Gilmore Jr., Larry Brown and John Johnson.
Shirley Delois Hollingsworth
GORDO, Ala. - Shirley Delois Hollingsworth, 69, died April 18, 2009, at Forrest Manor Nursing Home. Services are Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Skelton Funeral Home Chapel in Reform, Ala., with the Rev. Jim Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Salem Cemetery. Visitation is Tuesday for one hour prior to services at the funeral home and immediately following the service. Mrs. Hollingsworth was born Jan. 13, 1940, to the late R. Belton and Nancy Smelley Wheat. She is survived by her husband, William Taylor Hollingsworth of Gordo; and brothers, Ralph Wheat of Moundville, Ala., and Billy Wheat of Gordo.
Bill Elliott
EUPORA - Bill Elliott, 52, died April 16, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Eupora. Memorial services are Monday at 2 p.m. at Wise Funeral Home with the Rev. Willy Weddle officiating. Mr. Elliott was born March 28, 1957. He was a retired business owner and a member of First United Methodist Church in Greenwood. He is survived by his mother, June Elliott of Greenwood; daughters, Ginny Martin of Greenville and Katey Deaton of Brandon; son, Morgan Elliott of Greenwood; sister, Kathy Elliott of Greenwood; brothers, Leslie and John Elliott, both of Greenwood; and two grandchildren.
Jeanne Jones Ferris
MACON - Jeanne Jones Ferris, 96, died April 16, 2009, at Carrington Nursing Center-Starkville. Graveside services were Saturday at 3 p.m. at Oddfellows Cemetery in Macon with the Rev. Andy Andews officiating. Cockrell Funeral Home of Macon was in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Ferris was born Aug. 8, 1912, in Byhalia to the late John Rosser and Etta Mims Jones. She was a homemaker, a member of Episcopal Church of the Nativity in Macon and a communicant of Starkville Episcopal Church of the Resurrection. She was a charter member of Macon Junior Auxiliary, Dancing Rabbit Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution, and Women's Study Circle. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene Brooke Ferris Jr.; sister, Constance Jones Graves; and one grandchild. She is survived by her daughter, Constance Ferris Walker, of Starkville; sons, Eugene Brooke Ferris, of Memphis, Tenn., Douglas Mims Ferris, of Oxford, and Michael David Ferris, of Tupelo; nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Phayree Fulgham Hunt
STARKVILLE - Phayree Fulgham Hunt, 79, died April 17, 2009, at her residence. Services are Monday at 2 p.m. at Welch Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Clifton Curtis officiating. Burial will follow at the Center Grove Cemetery. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Hunt was a member of First Baptist Church. She was a graduate of Maben High School and Draughon's Business College. She was an employee of Peoples Savings Bank and later at West Brothers Department Store. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Eldon Duain Hunt; sister, Annie Ruth F. Turner; brother, D. Howard Fulgham; and an infant brother. She is survived by her son, Jim Sherman, of Starkville; daughters, Dianne and Allene H. Howell and Mary H. Carmicheal, all of Starkville; sister, Linda F. Hammack of Richmond, Texas; and five grandchildren.
David Austin Ivey
David Austin Ivey, 42 of Columbus, MS, passed away on Friday, April 15, 2009, at his residence. Visitation was held Saturday, April 18, 2009, from 9 to 10 AM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral services were held at 10 AM in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Andy Pearson officiating and Pastor Pamela Cameron assisting. Interment was in Stonewall Cemetery, Stonewall, MS, with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS, directing. Mr. Ivey was born January 6, 1967, in Meridian, MS, to Juanita Langley Ely and the late Austin Grady Ivey. He was a resident of Columbus, MS, for the past thirty years having moved from Meridian, MS. Mr. Ivey was employed as a painter with True-Grit, a member of the National Wild Turkey Federation, Circle M Hunting Club, loved hunting and fishing. In addition to his father, he is preceded in death by his sister - Tammy Lynn Ivey. Mr. Ivey is survived by his mother - Nita Ely, Lake Charles, LA; sons - Reed Ivey, Millport, AL and Cole Ivey, Millport, AL; and brother - Hunter Ely, Baton Rouge, LA. Pallbearers were Reed Ivey, Hunter Ely, Stacy Ryals, Rusty Jones, Chris Aughtry, Toby Robins and Bubba Buchannan. Honorary pallbearer was Cole Ivey.
Alex Ray Meeks
HAYLEYVILLE, Ala. - Alex Ray Meeks, 51, died April 16, 2009, in Monroe County. Graveside services were Saturday at 2 p.m. at New Hope Cemetery with Bro. Darrell Sanderson officiating. E.E. Pickle Funeral Home of Amory was in charge of the arrangements. He was born Nov. 2, 1957, in Mississippi. He lived in Wetumpka, Ala., Birmingham, Ala., and in Haleyville. He was preceded in death by his father, Frances Meeks. He is survived by his mother, Imogene Smith Gilliam of Hamilton; fiancÈ, April Nelson of Haleyville; sons, Alex Ray Meeks Jr. and Christopher Nelson; brothers, Donald Ray Meeks and Robert Meeks, both of Huntsville, Ala., and Douglas Keel of Hamilton, Ala.; sisters, Daphne Alred, of Amory, Mary Ann Buchanan, of Huntsville, Frances Jean Altmon, of Florida and Donna Bozsmen, of Birmingham. Pallbearers were Douglas Keel, Roger Phelps, Danny Alred, Michael Longcrier, Shannon Carter and Steve Braden.
Andre Jaquet Rogers
STARKVILLE - Andre Jaquet Rogers, 38, died April 15, 2009, at his residence. Services are Monday at 1 p.m. at Blackjack Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. Robert T. Branson officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Gardens in Starkville. Visitation is today from 2-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Starkville. Mr. Rogers was born in East St. Louis and was a UPS employee. He is survived by his father, Henry Rogers of Starkville; mothers, Jackie Rogers, of Starkville, and Rosie Lathan, of East St. Louis; brothers, Jody Rogers of Memphis, Tenn., and Earnell Branson of Columbia, S.C.; sisters, Towanda Clark of Honolulu, and Amy Kenard of Calcium, N.Y.; grandparents, the Rev. Robert T. Branson and Fannie Branson, of Starkville.
Earline Tate
BROOKSVILLE - Earline Tate, 73, died April 12, 2009, at her residence. Services were Saturday at 11 a.m. at Orr's Chapel CME Church with the Revs. Lizzie Harris and William Rice officiating. Burial followed at Brooksville City Cemetery in Brooksville. Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Macon was in charge of arrangements. Ms. Tate was born Dec. 24, 1935, to the late Promise and Lula B. Rice Tate. She was a member of Orr's Chapel CME Church in Brooksville. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Gene Rice and Promise Tate Jr.; and sisters, Martha Jean Chandler, Mary Lee Stewart and Bessie Jean Bush. She is survived by her daughter, Millie M. Tate of Brooksville; brothers, John C. Tate and Rodchester Bo Dora, both of Brooksville; one grandchild and one great-grandchild. Pallbearers were Earlie, Andrew and Joe Henley, Willie Rice, Emarshell Bush and John Cotton.
Brenda Thompson
Denver, CO-Brenda Elaine Thompson, 55, died April 12 with her beloved cat, Sophia at her side. A celebration of her life will be April 21, 1pm at Palestine Methodist Church in Montpelier, Rev. Cary Sutphin officiating. Burial will follow in Palestine Cemetery. Visitation will be April 20, 5-8pm at Robinson Funeral Home in West Point, which is handling the arrangements. Mrs. Thompson was born Jan. 1, 1954 in West Point to the late Wayne & Ozelle Thompson, and was a nurse. Her career carried her to medical facilities in Columbus, Starkville, Gulfport, Tupelo, MS and Tampa, FL and at the time of her death Park Forest Care Center in Denver, CO. She is survived by her daughter, Corie LaRae Peay of Denver, CO; sisters, Hilda (Ted) Love of Tupelo & Sharon (Wallace) Berry of Starkville; nephews, Michael Berry & Blake Love; niece, Katie Berry; and step-son, Butch Peay. Pallbearers will be Butch Peay, Steve White, Jonathan Barkley & Mark Barkley.
Dorothy Mattie Wright
Dorothy Mattie Wright, 89, died April 16 at Cedar Health Center in Tupelo. Services will be April 19, 3pm at Robinson Chapel, Rev. R.C. Bryan officiating. Burial will follow in West Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Visitation will be April 19, 2pm until service time at Robinson Funeral Home, which is handling the arrangements. Mrs. Wright was born Oct. 18, 1919 in Porageville, MO to the late Mack Warren & Omega Cheasey, and was a member of First Baptist Church in West Point for 43 years. She moved to Traceway Manor in 2004, and was preceded in death by her husband, N.M. Wright, Jr.; and granddaughter, Ashley Wright. She is survived by sons, Noel (Barbara) Wright, III of Olive Branch & Nathan (Susie) Wright of Germantown, TN; grandchildren, Matt (Missy) Wright of Lakeland, TN & Kacie (Josh) Miller of South Asia; and great grandchildren, Chloe Wright, Quinn Wright & Lyla Joy Miller.
Raymond D. "Ray" Barksdale, Jr
Raymond D. "Ray" Barksdale, Jr., age 85, died April 15, 2009, at The Windsor Place Nursing & Rehab Center in Columbus, MS Services will be held at St. Paul's Episcopal Church on Sunday, April 19, 2009, at 3:00 PM with Father James Carlyle officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Visitation will be at St. Paul's Episcopal Church on Sunday, April 19, 2009, from 1:30 PM Sunday until service time at the church. Mr. Barksdale was born on March 17, 1924 in Memphis, TN to the late Raymond D. and Suzie Hardaway Barksdale Sr. He was a dedicated member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church, a U. S. Army Aircorp WWII Veteran, and a member of the American Legion T.S. Patterson Post 69. He retired from the Columbus Public School System in 1986 where he had served as Supervisor of school services since 1962. He was a charter member of the Mississippi School Food Service Association and served as its' first president in 1957 and again in 1968. From 1980-1982 he served as national treasure for that same organization. Mr. Barksdale was a longtime member of the Columbus Exchange Club and served as president in 1970-1971. Mr. Barksdale served as the treasure for the Lowndes County 4-H Club and served on the Board of Directors for the Lowndes County Chapter of the American Red Cross in 1989. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife of 32 years Walterine Beason Barksdale. Survivors include: daughter - Malinda Bivens (Harry) of Charlotte, NC; son -Raymond D. Barksdale, III (Sharon) of Amory, MS; three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a brother - Eugene Barksdale (Agnes) of Hattiesburg, MS. The pallbearers are Eric Barksdale, Tyler Barksdale, and the Ushers from St. Paul's Episcopal Church.
Dan Hollenback
EUPORA - Dan Hollenback, 74, died April 15, 2009, in Eupora. Graveside services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Monte Vista Cemetery in Webster County with the Rev. Howard Rodgers officiating. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at Wise Funeral Home in Eupora. Mr. Hollenback was born Jan. 21, 1935. He was a retired farmer and timber worker. He was a member of Monte Vista Baptist Church in Webster County. He is survived by his wife, Clara Mae Hollenback of Eupora; daughter, Rita Warren of Eupora; son, Michael Hollenback of Eupora; and two grandchildren.
Jacqueline Lucille Windham Minor
CYPRESS, Texas - Jacqueline Lucille Windham Minor, 46, died April 13, 2009. Services are Saturday at 1 p.m. at Southside MB Church with Pastor Glenn Jefferson Sr. officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Gardens. Visitation is today from noon-6 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Ms. Minor was born June 18, 1962, in Manhattan, N.Y. She was a 1980 graduate of Caldwell High School and a 1984 graduate of Mississippi University for Women. She was a member of Southside MB Church and was a case manager with Resource Healthcare Inc. She was preceded in death by her mother, Winetta Windham Stewart; and grandparents, Ellis and Eliza Windham. She is survived by her father, Emmitt Joe Stewart Jr. of Columbus; children, Shaquille A. Greer and Robert and Eric Mitchell; sisters, Constance Moore of Cypress, Texas, and Emily Colbert of Columbus. Pallbearers will be family and friends.
Queen Ester "Woot" Rice
Queen Ester "Woot" Rice, 89, died April 11, 2009, in St. Louis. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Providence MB Church with the Rev. James Greenlaw officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Gardens. Visitation is today from 3-8 p.m. and the family will greet guests from 6-8 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Mrs. Rice was born Aug. 19, 1919, in Pickens County, Ala., to the late Noisy and Della Reed. She was a member of Providence MB Church, where she served on Mother's Board and Willing Worker Committee. She was a member of International Orders of Easter Star, Chapter 4. She was a social worker for Prairie Opportunity-New Baptist Headstart and a teacher. She was employed with Hooker Chemical for over 20 years. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Reuben Rice; sons, Sammie Lee and Robert Earl Rice; and stepdaughter, Vernice King. She is survived by her son, Benny Rice of Columbus; daughters, Virginia Manning, Christine Kilbum, Loistine Hoskin and Daizy Meehan, all of St. Louis; stepdaughter, Geneva Farris of Memphis; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be her family and friends.
Clara Stephens
EUPORA - Clara Stephens, 69, died April 13, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Grove Chapel Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. Rufus Harris officiating. Burial will follow at Spring Valley Cemetery in Mathiston. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville. Mrs. Stephens was born in Washington County. She worked in food service and was a Baptist. She is survived by her daughter, Ruby L. Bruce of Mathiston; sons, Charlie and Eddie Williams, both of Memphis, Tenn.; and sister, Loubertha Jones of Maben.
Earline Tate
BROOKSVILLE - Earline Tate, 73, died April 12, 2009, at her residence. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Orr's Chapel CME Church with the Revs. Lizzie Harris and William Rice officiating. Burial will follow at Brooksville City Cemetery in Brooksville. Visitation is today from noon-5 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Macon. Ms. Tate was born Dec. 24, 1935, to the late Promise and Lula B. Rice Tate. She was a member of Orr's Chapel CME Church in Brooksville. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Gene Rice and Promise Tate Jr.; and sisters, Martha Jean Chandler, Mary Lee Stewart and Bessie Jean Bush. She is survived by her daughter, Millie Mae Tate of Brooksville; and sons, John C. and Rodchester Bo Tate, both of Brooksville. Pallbearers will be Earlie, Andrew and Joe Henley, Willie Rice, Emarshell Bush and John Cotton.
Lula Beatrice Cunningham
WEST POINT - Lula Beatrice Cunningham, 88, died April 10, 2009, at her residence. Services are Friday at 11 a.m. at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in West Point with Bishop William H. Golden Sr. officiating. Burial will follow at West Point Memorial Gardens. Visitation is today from 3-6 p.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services Chapel in West Point. Mrs. Cunningham was born July 26, 1920, in West Point. She was preceded in death by her husband, Johnnie William Cunningham; parents, to the late Robert Daniels Sr. and Lucinda Moore; sons, George Wheeler Billups and Dennis Cunningham; brother, Wheeler Daniels; and sisters, Mary Daniels and Mamie Moore. She is survived by her daughters, Mary Louise Billups of West Point, Diana Bowen of Houston, Cynthia Mack of Grand Prairie, Texas, and Nadine Billups of Gary, Ind.; brother, Robert Daniels Jr. of Florida; sister, Toy Marshall of West Point; six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Mary Dell Lewis Davis
Mary Dell Lewis Davis, 66, died April 9, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Friday at 2 p.m. at Hopewell Baptist Church with the Rev. Olen Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Zion Church Cemetery. Visitation is today from noon-6 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Mrs. Davis was born Aug. 24, 1942, in Noxubee County to the late Boone Harris Sr. and Minnie Lewis. She had been employed with Sanderson Plumbing. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughters, Carrie Jean Davis and Nina Marie Davis; and brothers, Joe Lewis, Roosevelt Lacy and Oscar James Porter. She is survived by her husband, L.J. Davis of Columbus; sons, David Pratt and Ricky Davis, both of Columbus; daughters, Joanna Brooks of Enterprise, Ala., and Shirley Malone, Janet and Rose Pratt and Kimbley Davis, all of Columbus; sisters, Annie Ruth Tucker and Adell Promije, both of Kankakee, Ill., Shirley McGee, Pearl Harris, Mary Robertson, Bearth People, Dorothy Walls and Emma Bush; brothers, Roosiville, Robert, Venzell and Willie C. Harris; and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be friends of the family.
Stuart Brock duQuesnay
Stuart Brock duQuesnay died Thursday, April 2nd 2009, at home in Diamondhead, MS, after a long illness. A private Mass and burial were held Wednesday, April 15, 2009 at E .J. Fielding Funeral Home and Pinecrest Memorial Gardens in Covington, LA. Age 52, Mr. duQuesnay was a resident of Columbus and Diamondhead, MS for 25 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Norma Jean Hebert duQuesnay and Noel Joseph duQuesnay. Stuart is survived by his siblings, Noel Clay duQuesnay and Emeric Charles duQuesnay of New Orleans, LA and Amy duQuesnay Mabon of Atlanta, GA; as well as six nieces and nephews.
Leslie Earl Redwine
DUCK HILL - Leslie Earl Redwine, 62, died April 14, 2009, at Grenada Lake Medical Center. Memorial services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Red Hill Baptist Church with the Rev. Terry Edwards officiating. Garner-Harper Funeral Home of Grenada is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Redwine was born Nov. 16, 1946, in Yalobusha County to the late Clarence and Annie Lorene Jenkins Redwine. He was a retired construction worker and a member of Bethel Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Elmer Redwine. He is survived by his wife, Jo Redwine; sons, Chris Aston of Johnson, S.C., and James Miller of Laurel; daughters, Kerri Sumner of Water Valley, and Stephanie and Sally Sibley of Eupora; brother, John Redwine of Columbus; and 16 grandchildren.
Luellen Stevenson
KENNEDY, Ala. - Luellen Stevenson, 92, died April 12, 2009, at her residence. Services are Friday at 1 p.m. at New Grove Baptist Church with the Rev. Michael Brock officiating. Burial will follow at Kennedy Community Cemetery in Kennedy. The body will be at the church one hour prior to services on Friday. Dowdle Funeral Home in Millport, Ala., is in charge of arrangements. Ms. Stevenson was born Oct. 18, 1917, in Lamar County, Ala. She was a lifelong resident of Kennedy, a homemaker and a member of New Grove Baptist Church. She is survived by her daughter, Alma Cooper. Pallbearers will be Tim Harton, and Donnie, James and Gregory Poole.
Frances Martin
Frances Murphy Martin, 82, died April 15 at Aurora Australis Lodge. Services will be April 16, 11am at Gunter & Peel Funeral Home, Rev. Don Harding officiating. Burial will follow in Egger Cemetery, Caledonia. Visitation will be 10-11am at Gunter & Peel Funeral Home, which is handling the arrangements. Mrs. Martin was born in Hamilton to the late Leonard & Viola Miller Murphy. She was a faithful and loving member of Kolola Springs Baptist Church, where she was a member of the Senior Adult Sunday School Class. She worked for Glenn Mfg. in Caledonia, and retired from Blue Bell Mfg. of Columbus. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charlie H. Martin, Jr.; and 8 siblings. She is survived by her son, Wayne Martin of Tampa, FL; brother, Elzie (Ann) Murphy of Caledonia; and sister, Zela Otts of Columbus. Pallbearers will be Charlie Culpepper, Carey Garriga, Bruce Markham, Marty Holtman, Brooks Stapp & Marvin Murphy.
Andrew Wesley Baird
Dr. Andrew Wesley Baird, 79, died April 13, 2009, at Oktibbeha County Hospital. Services are Thursday at 10 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Starkville. Burial will follow at Memorial Gardens. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at Welch Funeral Home in Starkville. Dr. Baird was a native of Houston and graduated from Houston High School in 1948. He was a U.S. Army veteran, having served in Japan and Korea during 1952 and 1953 with the 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. He was a member of Post 05573, Veterans of Foreign Wars in Starkville. He earned Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from Mississippi State University, and a Ph.D. from Louisiana State University. He joined the Mississippi State University staff in February 1957 as a research sociologist. He retired in January 1992 as professor of sociology, Department of Sociology, and as research sociologist, Social Science Research Center and Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station. Upon his retirement he was named emeritus professor and emeritus sociologist. He was a longtime member of First United Methodist Church of Starkville. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ivy Walker Baird and Estelle McKinney Baird of Houston. He is survived by his wife, Maxine Foster Baird; sons, Dennis Wesley Baird of Kosciusko, and Keith Walker Baird of Starkville; sister, Sue Pemper of Houston; brother, Tom Baird of Houston; two grandsons, and one great-granddaughter.
Lelia Alma Berryman Cox
NETTLETON - Lelia Alma Berryman Cox, 90, died April 12, 2009, at her residence. Services are today at 2 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home in Amory with Bro. Tommy Whaley and Bro. Mike Tucker officiating. Burial will follow at Liberty Cemetery in Itawamba County. Visitation will continue today until service time at funeral home. Mrs. Cox was born July 2, 1918, in Itawamba County to the late John W. and Annie Virdell Smith Berryman. She lived in Columbus and in the Nettleton area for 50 years. She was employed by Wilson Manufacturing for a number of years. She also cooked fish for the County Squire. She was a member of Liberty Baptist Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Julius Cox; brother, Jack W. Berryman; and sisters, Alta Attaway and Gladys Hester. She is survived by her son, John W. Cox of Blue Mountain; daughters, JoNell Cox and Judy Nanney, both of Nettleton, Peggy Minor of Amory, Sue Clark of Shannon and Jean Cox Bogan of Tupelo; 13 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Johnny Cox, Corey Merrell, Wally Combs, Brent Cary, Terry Holland, and Wade, Randy and Tyler Minor.
Oscar Cunningham
Oscar Cunningham, 56, died April 9, 2009, at Golden Living Center in Eupora. Services are Thursday at 1 p.m. at New Bethel MB Church with the Rev. Carlton Fisher officiating. Burial will follow at Spring Valley Cemetery in Mathiston. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville. Mr. Cunningham was born in Oktibbeha County. He worked in construction and was a Baptist.
J.J. "Midge" Fuller
MATHISTON - J.J. "Midge" Fuller, 71, died April 10, 2009, in Parchman. Services are today at 1 p.m. at Crossroads Baptist Church with the Revs. Mike Stowell and Shorty Carden officiating. Burial will follow at DeWeese Cemetery in Choctaw County. Visitation will be at the Fuller residence, 3169 Reed Road, Mathiston. Wise Funeral Home of Eupora is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Fuller was born Nov. 13, 1937. He was a pulpwood hauler. He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Fuller; two brothers; and two grandchildren. He is survived by his daughters, Linda Fuller, Teresa Williamson and Gail Hathcock, all of Mathiston, and Lisa Fuller of Ackerman; sons, Eddie, Henry and James Fuller, all of Mathiston, and Richard Fuller of Tickfaw, La.; brother, Roy Fuller of Mathiston; 20 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Eva T. Simmons
HAMILTON - Eva T. Simmons, 101, died April 13, 2009, at Loyalton Assisted Living in Biloxi. Services are Friday at 11 a.m. at Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Aberdeen with the Rev. Roger McGrew officiating. Burial will follow at Oddfellows Rest Cemetery. Visitation is Thursday from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Ms. Simmons was born Feb. 28, 1908, in Monroe County to the late James Thomas Simmons and Florence Arvey Simmons. She was a resident of Columbus prior to moving to Biloxi. She was the last charter member of Hamilton United Methodist Church. She graduated from Hamilton High School and had worked at Sunflower Grocery Store and Midland Shirt Factory. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Era Simmons West, and Stella Halbert; and brothers, Onro, Travis, Marvin and William Simmons. Pallbearers will be Martin and Walter Hugh Wilson, Johnny Hull, Robert Tucker, Dick Barrentine and Bo Robinson.
Deborah Jean Temple
WEST POINT - Deborah Jean Temple, 54, died April 9, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Thursday at noon at Third Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church in West Point with the Rev. Al Lathan Sr. officiating. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in West Point. Visitation is today from 3-6 p.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services Chapel in West Point. Ms. Temple was born Aug. 2, 1954, in West Point. She was preceded in death by her father, William Temple Sr.; brothers, Freddie B. Smith and William Temple Jr. She is survived by her mother, Betty Temple of West Point; son, Kody Temple of Lawrenceville, Ga.; daughters, Luciana Temple of Robinsonville and Nivea Temple of Lawrenceville; brothers, Ira L. and Ronnie L. Temple, both of West Point; sisters, Carolyn Swoope, Mary L. Allen and Barbara Anderson, all of West Point, and Brenda Sampson and Melevine Temple, both of Los Angeles.
Clyde Haynes
SULLIGENT, Ala. - Clyde Haynes, 69, died April 12, 2009, at Care Center of Vernon. Services are Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Peoples Tabernacle Church with Bro. Barry Sutton, Bro. William Kirkman and Bro. Kenneth Humbers officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Gilmer Addition/Sulligent City Cemetery. Visitation is today from 6-9 p.m. at Otts Funeral Home in Sulligent, and the body will be at the church one hour prior to services on Wednesday. Mr. Haynes was born Jan. 31, 1940, in Lamar County, Ala., to the late Oliver and Lela Johnson Haynes. He was a member of New Beginning Apostolic Church, where he was a church trustee and Sunday school superintendent. He was a former member of Sulligent City Council and former Sulligent High School trustee. He was retired from the Alabama Army National Guard 877th Engineer Battalion, and he retired from NACCO after 26 years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Betty Jean Robinson. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Weeks Haynes of Sulligent; sons, Harold Haynes of Pelham, Ala., and David Haynes of Sulligent; daughter, Melinda Butler of Sulligent; brother, Oliver Haynes of Sulligent; and five grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Randy, James and Chase Haynes, Dillon Butler, Allen McDaniel and Terry Robinson.
James Darryl Holcomb
GOLDEN - James Darryl Holcomb, 28, died April 10, 2009, at his residence. Services are today at 2 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church in Belmont with Bro. Billy Burge and Bro. Randy Buse officiating. Burial will follow at Antioch Cemetery in Itawamba County. Visitation is today for four hours prior to services at the church. E.E. Pickle Funeral Home of Smithville is in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Holcomb was born April 15, 1980, in Amory. He lived in Smithville and in Itawamba County for seven years. He was a self-employed logger and a member of the Calvary Baptist Church in Belmont, where he worked with the Awana Club. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Elvin Franks and Mr. and Mrs. Noel Holcomb. He is survived by his wife, Crystal Stone Holcomb of Golden; son, Chip Holcomb of Golden; daughter, Isabelle Holcomb of Golden; mother, Loyce Franks Holcomb of Smithville; father, James Holcomb of Golden; sister, Jana Holcomb of Smithville; and grandparents, Shirley and Charles Stone of Water Valley. Pallbearers will be John Michael Lay, Jerome Cox, Jefrey Coker, Brandon Pharr, Chad Tucker, Jayson Golston, John Hathcote, Nathan Gazaway and Daniel McCollum.
Mack Hollis
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - Mack Hollis, 63, died April 13, 2009, at Northport Medical Center. Services are Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Norwood Funeral Home Chapel in Guin, Ala., with Bro. Scott Stokes, Bro. Hershel Owen and Bro. C.W. Box officiating. Burial will follow at Love Joy Cemetery. Mr. Hollis was born in Winfield, Ala. He was a former resident of Guin and had lived in Tuscaloosa for the past 35 years. He was a construction superintendent. He is survived by his wife, Secglynda Parker Hollis of Tuscaloosa; daughter, Pam Sullivan of Gordo, Ala.; son, Keith Hollis of Guin; parents, Buck and Evelyn Woods Hollis of Guin; stepson, David Kuykendall of Tuscaloosa; sisters, Virginia Jones of Winfield and Irene Whitehead of Guin; brothers, Bill Hollis of Millport, Ala., and Bobby and Rick Hollis, both of Guin; and five grandchildren.
Ruby Lee Simmons
ROLLING FORK - Ruby Lee Simmons, 89, died April 12, 2009, at Sharkey-Issaquena Community Hospital-Rolling Fork. Services are Wednesday at 1 p. m. at Calvert Funeral Home Chapel in West Point with Pastor Millard Caulder officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Garden Cemetery in West Point. Visitation is Wednesday for one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Mrs. Simmons was born Nov. 27, 1919, in Kaiser, Ark., to the late Margaret Blansett and John D. Clemons. She was a homemaker and a seamstress at Knickerbocker Manufacturing and West Point Casket Co., both in West Point. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Rolling Fork. She had lived in West Point from 1951-1994 before moving to Rolling Fork. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Washington Simmons; son, Clyde Simmons; and stepsons, Thomas and C.A. Simmons. She is survived by her daughters, Mary Love Dykes of Rolling Fork, Eva Louise Kelly of Ocoee, Fla., and Mary Taylor of Coco, Fla.; son, James Kenneth Nichols of Clearmont, Fla.; 16 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and 11 great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Charles III, Kenneth and Rodney Willingham, and Jap, Tommy and Scot Simmons.
Ina Richardson Thompson
Ina Richardson Thompson, age 89, of Columbus, MS died April 10, 2009 at Rush Foundation Hospital in Meridian, MS. Graveside services will be Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at 1:30 PM at Memorial Gardens Cemetery with Rev. Ron McDougal officiating. Visitation will also be Tuesday, April 14, 2009 from 11:30 AM until 1:00 PM at Gunter & Peel Funeral Home. Mrs. Thompson was born September 24, 1919 in Caledonia, MS to the late John Dill and Ruby Thweat Richardson. She worked for Dr. Leon Ellis and helped deliver over 1000 babies in Lowndes County homes. Mrs. Thompson later owned several small businesses in the Columbus and Grenada areas. She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy E. Thompson, Sr., brother, Robert Richardson, and sisters Ricky Holiness and Katherine Harpster, as well as former husbands Maurice E. Gurley and John W. Lancaster. Mrs. Thompson is survived by her daughters Elizabeth Gurley Hinton of Palm Beach, FL, and Barbara Gurley Wilson of Columbus, MS; sons Terry Lancaster of Tunica, MS, and Darrius Lancaster of West Point, MS; brother, Ed Richardson of Columbus, MS, sisters, Charlene Richardson Brownlee of Columbus, MS, and Gladys Richardson Howell of Jacksonville, FL; grandchildren, Bennett E. Zinn, Jr., Tracy Rhynee Lindsay, Michael L .Zinn, Jonathan Lancaster, Rebecca Lancaster, and Darrius Lancaster, Jr. She also had six great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Bennett E. Zinn, Jr., Michael L. Zinn, Jonathan Lancaster, Darrius Lancaster, Jr., Larry Richardson, and Tony Carley.
Margie Lucille Walden
Margie Lucille Walden, age 89, died April 13, 2009, at Trinity Healthcare Center. Services will be held at Mt. Zion Baptist Church on Wednesday, April 15, 2009 at 2:00 PM with Rev. Steve Lammons and Rev. Ralph Windle officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation was held at Memorial Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 14, 2009 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Mrs. Walden was born on June 15, 1919, in Ethelsville, AL to the late W.A. and Minnie Jacobs Hammett. She was a longtime member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church and a retired seamstress at Seminole Manufacturing Company. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband - Clarence Walden, her son - Larry Houston Walden,three sisters and one brother. Mrs. Walden is survived by host of nieces and nephews. The pallbearers will be Charles Beasley, Chuck Beasley, Corey Beasley, Ray Crane and John Beard.
Maydelle K. Williams
WEST POINT - Maydelle K. Williams, 96, died April 12, 2009, at the North Mississippi Medical Center-West Point. Graveside services are Wednesday at 10 a.m. at Friendship Cemetery in Columbus with Dr. James Towery officiating. Calvert Funeral Home of West Point is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Williams was born May 8, 1912, in Oktibbeha County to the late Anna V. and Daniel A. Kornegay. She worked as a clerk for the Lowndes County Tax Collector's Office in Columbus and was a member of East End Baptist Church in Columbus. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two husbands, Henry Hinton Donour and Charles Atwell Williams; four brothers and two sisters. She is survived by her son, Henry Donour of West Point; three grandchildren and a number great grandchildren.
Willie Dee Barnes
AMORY - Willie Dee Barnes, 94, died April 11, 2009, at his son's residence. Services are today at 2 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Bro. Charles Coggins and Bro. Lloyd Minor officiating. Burial with Masonic Rites will follow at Masonic Cemetery. Visitation will continue until service time today at the funeral home. Mr. Barnes was born September 23, 1914, in Vernon, Ala., to the late Addie and Lola Pearl McGee Barnes. He lived in Amory and later moved to Smithville. He had worked as plant manager for Monroe Trouser Manufacturing Co. in Smithville from 1953 until retirement in the early eighties. He was employed by the Longenecker family for 47 years. He was a U.S. veteran of World War II, a Mason, a member of the Eastern Star, and he attended First United Methodist Church in Amory. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Nettie Mae Northington Barnes; two brothers and four sisters. He is survived by his son, Don William Barnes of Smithville; two grandsons and five great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Don II and David Barnes, David Strawbridge, Jim Young, Rae Murphree and Harry Northington.
Eddie James Manning, Sr.
WEST POINT - Eddie James Manning, Sr., 63, died April 7, 2009, at his residence. Memorial services are Tuesday at 1 p.m. at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in West Point with the Rev. Bobby Bowen officiating. Carter's Mortuary Services in West Point is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Manning was born Aug. 10, 1945, in West Point. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene Manning Sr. and Everleana Manning; brothers, Eugene Jr. and Mack Henry Manning; and sister, Juanita Mathenry Manning McGee. He is survived by his wife, Ollie Mae Manning of West Point; son, Eddie James Manning Jr. of West Point; and five grandchildren.
Melvin "Peas" Weed
PRAIRIE - Melvin "Peas" Weed, 92, died April 12, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Services are Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. at Calvert Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Bobby Lynn Brock officiating. Burial will follow at Macedonia Cemetery Houston. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Weed was born April 4, 1917, in Chickasaw County to the late Savannah Earl Dill and John Andrew Weed. He was a farmer, a registered paint horse breeder and a member of McCondy Baptist Church. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army Air Corps, having served during World War II in the European Theatre. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Lucy Jeannette Boyce Weed; and sons, James and Charles Weed. He is survived by his daughters, Bobbie Ann and Nancy Cheryl Weed, Kay W. Howard and Linda Wilson, all of Prairie, and Penny Hamblin of Houston; sons, Bill and John Weed, both of Dallas, and Tony, Carl, Donald Avery and Melvin Ray Weed, all of Prairie; sister, Marcelene Stevenson of West Point; 12 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren; Pallbearers will be Tim and Dustin Weed, Scott and Reed Howard, Terry Henley and David Moore.
Robert F. "Robbie" Brewer
WEST POINT - Robert F. "Robbie" Brewer, 41, died April 9, 2009, at the Beacon Hospice in Longview, Texas. Services are Tuesday at 2 p.m. at Calvert Funeral Home Chapel in West Point with the Rev. R. C. Bryan assisted by Brother Andy Parrish and Brother Ray Spence officiating. Burial will follow in Hebron Cemetery Pheba. Visitation is Monday, from 5-8 p.m. at Calvert Funeral Home. Mr. Brewer was born Jan. 11, 1968 in West Point, to Kathy Posey Brewer and Robert Franklin Brewer Sr. He was an electrical supervisor for 23 years and a member of Hebron Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his brother, William Wesley "Billy" Brewer. He is survived by his wife, Denise Johnson Brewer of De Berry, Texas; three daughters, Daelin Brewer, Demori Gonzalez, Devin Gonzalez all of De Berry; two sons, Hunter Brewer of Columbus, and Ghatlin Brewer of De Berry, his parents Frank and Kathy Brewer; one sister, Katie Blade of Maben and his grandmother, Doris Posey of Pheba. Pallbearers will be Michael Washington, Robbie Blade, Michael Johnson, David Harvey, Josh Busby, Ronald Garcia, Rodney Johnson and Lavon Isgitt.
Junie K. Gentry
Junie K. Gentry, 96, died April 9, 2009, at Oktibbeha County Hospital-Starkville. Services were Saturday at 3 p.m. at Bethesda Baptist Church with the Revs. James Mills, Charles E. Smith and Lloyd Humphrey officiating. Burial followed at the church cemetery. Welch Funeral Home of Starkville was in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Gentry was a homemaker, a retired owner of Gentry's Store at Oktoc and a member of Bethesda Baptist Church and Oktoc Garden Club. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hilman O. Gentry; and daughter, Elizabeth Wooten. She is survived by her daughters, Jane Herrington and Christy Gentry, both of Starkville; sons, Wayne, Hilman and Joey O. Gentry, all of Starkville; 15 grandchildren and 41 great-grandchildren.
Luther Milton Noland Jr.
CARROLLTON, Ala. - Luther Milton Noland Jr., 61, died April 9, 2009, at his residence. Services are Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Skelton Funeral Home Chapel in Reform, Ala., with the Revs. Gary Mullenix, Brannon Pinion and Tony Latham officiating. Burial will follow at Glen Echo Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation is Monday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Noland was born Oct. 15, 1947, in Carrollton, Ala., to the late Luther M. Noland Sr. and Gladys McJenkin Noland. He was a member and pianist at Glen Echo Free Will Baptist Church, an employee of Omnova Solutions in Columbus and a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Thomas Lee Noland and Ronald Oneal Noland. He is survived by his wife, Amber Plowman Noland of Carrollton; son, Sandy Noland of Florence, Ala.; brother, James B. Noland of Jonesboro, La.; and sister, Joan Noland Brown of Northport, Ala. Pallbearers will be David and Glen Fulgham, Bobby Bailey, Hayboy Abrams, Keith and Matt Kilpatrick, Jasper Carter, Dennis Gray, and Don and Larry McJenkin.
Betty Ann Woods
Betty Ann Woods, 51, died April 9, 2009, at Okitbbeha County Hospital in Starkville. Memorial services are Tuesday at 3 p.m. at Community of Christ Church in Vancleave. Welch Funeral Home of Starkville is in charge of arrangements. Ms. Woods was an Administrative Assistant for Pepsi America. She was preceded in death by her brother, Billy Woods; and grandson, Joseph Larkin Walker Jr. She is survived by her daughter, Jami Garrigan of Vancleave; sons, Micheal Green of Starkville, Jimmy Green of Vancleave, Jonathan Woods of Pascagoula, and Joey Walker of Grand Bay, Ala.; mother, Betty Brabham of Sherman, TX; father, William Woods of Florida; stepfather, Charles Copeland of Texas; sisters, Debbie Womack of Grand Prairie, TX, and Donna Thompson of Sherman, TX; brother, Charlie Copeland of Tom Bean, TX; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Billy S. Yarbrough
WEST POINT - Billy S. Yarbrough, 70, died April 10, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Monday at 2 p.m. at Gunter & Peel Funeral Home Chapel with Willis Logan officiating. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Church of Christ Cemetery in Steens. Visitation is today from 6-9 p.m. at Gunter & Peel Funeral Home. Mr. Yarbrough was born Jan. 12, 1939, in Lowndes County to the late Charlie and Sammie Adair Yarbrough. He was a CPA employed with MSC Industrial Specialist as comptroller until his retirement in 2002. He was a member of the Woodlawn Church of Christ. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Merlene Logan Yarbrough; brother, Charles Yarbrough; sister, Floy Sanders; and granddaughter, Stephanie M. Denney. He is survived by his wife, Sammie Talbert Yarbrough; daughters, Theresa Denney and Patsy Bensend Jr., both of West Point; son, Steve Yarbrough of Caledonia; stepson, Chris Talbert of Columbus; sister, Ruby Hudson of Vernon, Ala.; and 12 grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Garvin and Brandon Yarbrough, David and Marvin Bensend III, Josh Scarborough, James Denney, J.K. Forrester, and Joey Lewis.
Maxine Terry Barnes
ARDMORE, Ala. - Maxine Terry Barnes, 59, died April 9, 2009, at her residence. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Norwood Funeral Home Chapel in Sulligent, Ala., with Bro. Stanley Blaylock officiating. Burial will follow at Crews Cemetery. Visitation is today from 6-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Barnes was born in Lepanto, Ark., to the late James Louis and Dessie McGuire Terry. She was a homemaker and a Pentecostal. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Francis Terry; and brother, Jimmy Gale Terry. She is survived by her husband, Freddie Wayne Barnes of Ardmore; daughters, Brenda Joyce Tucker of Ardmore and Veronica Lynn Shelton of Athens, Ala.; son, Michael Dewayne Barnes of Ardmore; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Ben Cannon
Ben Cannon, 56, died April 1, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Griffin United Methodist Church with the Rev. Eddie Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Peiler Cemetery. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville. Mr. Cannon was born in Oktibbeha County. He was a painter and a Methodist. He is survived by his wife, Daisy Cannon of Columbus; sons, the Rev. Anthony Davis of Columbus, and Bentore, DeLarrittes and LaDennis Riley, all of Starkville; stepdaughter, Keshia Johnson of Columbus; sisters: Helen Smith and Annie Pearl Poe, both of Starkville, Linda Lanier of Clio, Mich., and Pasty Ruth of Davidson, Mich.; and brothers: Elder David Rogers of Grand Blanc, Mich.; and the Rev. Wendell Rogers, Jessie Rogers Jr. and Glenn Rogers, all of Flint, Mich.
Booker Thomas Carter
PRAIRIE - Booker Thomas Carter, 69, died April 3, 2009, at Regency Hospital-Jackson. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Lake Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Prairie with the Rev. J.P. Orr officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 12:30-1:30 p.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services Chapel in West Point. Mr. Carter was born Nov. 26, 1939, in West Point to the late James and Francis Carter. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Melvin L. Johnson. He is survived by his wife, Viola Johnson Carter; daughters, Jacqueline C. Houston of Jackson and Debbie J. Dogan of Prairie; and brothers, James M. Carter of Prairie, Theotis Carter of Cleveland, Ohio, and Dewell Carter of West Point.
William "Lil" Drake Jr.
STARKVILLE - William "Lil" Drake Jr., 57, died April 2, 2009, at Oktibbeha County Hospital. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at First Church of Christ Holiness in Starkville with the Rev. Jerry Boyd officiating. Burial will follow at Josey Creek Cemetery. Visitation is today from noon-4 p.m. at the church. Century Hairston Funeral Home of Columbus is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Drake was born Feb. 2, 1952, in Starkville to the late William and Carrie Ware Drake. He was a retired mechanic. He is survived by his sisters, Mary Ann Ward of Detroit, Margaret Hairston of Lexington and Doris Drake of Starkville.
William Henry Harris
BYRAM - William Henry Harris, 94, died April 5, 2009, in Byram. Services are Saturday at 3 p.m. at Mt. Pisgah MB Church in Tibbee with the Rev. Donald Wesley officiating. Burial will follow at Tibbee Community Cemetery. Visitation is today from 3-6 p.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services in West Point. Mr. Harris was born Dec. 18, 1914, in Clay County to the late Henry and Eugenia Harris. He was retired, and he was a veteran of the U.S. Marines and a member of Mt. Pisgah MB Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Betty B. Harris; sons, Bobby Lee Harris and William Elliott Harris; brother, Lewis Stephen Harris; and sister, Willie Maude Perry. He is survived by his son, Norby Wayne Harris of Jackson; daughters, Frenchie Louise Franklin of Bellwood, Ill., Hilda Marie Collins of Maywood, Ill., Shirley Mae Stallings of Broadview, Ill.; Sharron Harris-Alexander of Bowie, Md., Mary Fenton of Starkville, and Miraea H. Gavin and Irish R. Harris, both of Byram; sister, Frances Powers of West Point; 23 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren.
Adolph House
REFORM, Ala. - Adolph House, 91, died April 8, 2009, at Pickens County Medical Center. Graveside services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Greenhill Memorial Gardens with the Rev. Timothy Hoff officiating. Skelton Funeral Home of Reform is in charge of arrangements. Mr. House was born March 21, 1918, in Pickens County, Ala., to the late A.J. and Lizzie Alexander House. He was a retired employee of the V.A. Hospital and a U.S. Army veteran, having served in the 101st Airborne Division 503 as a medic and paratrooper. He was a well-known resident of Pickens County. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Laura Crowder House; three sisters and three brothers. He is survived by his daughter, Wanda House of Santa Cruz, Calif.; and brother, Raymond House of Reform. Pallbearers will be Herbert, Adam and Andrew House, Robbie Sanford, James Pate and Jeff Kyles.
Charles Franklin McClain
VARDAMAN - Charles Franklin McClain, 76, died April 9, 2009, at his residence. Services are Saturday at 10 a.m. at Thorn Church of God with Bro. Arnold Amason and Bro. Frank Samples officiating. Burial will follow at Ellzey Cemetery in Vardaman. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at Houston Funeral Home in Houston, and the body will be at the church Saturday one hour prior to services. Mr. McClain was born Feb. 9, 1933, in Ripley to the late Duncan and Jack Ellis McClain. He was a retired farmer for Cook Farms and a member of Thorn Church of God. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Danny McClain; and sisters, Elizabeth Faulkner and Sue Hardin. He is survived by his wife, Grace Vance McClain of Vardaman; daughters, Rena Smith of Starkville and Jeana Chandler of Vardaman; sons, Ricky McClain of Bruce, and Jerry and Robert McClain, both of Vardaman; sisters, Shirley Reed, Joyce Moore and Beverly Barkley, all of Ripley, Linda Alexander of Vardaman and Pat Power of Memphis, Tenn.; brothers, David and Joe McClain, both of Ripley, and Billy McClain of Chicago; and five grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Don Hooper, Kevin Stafford, James David Long, Tim Moore, and John and Gary Reed.
Iola Shelton
CRAWFORD - Iola Shelton, 83, died April 3, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Charity Full Gospel Baptist Church with Bishop Bobby McCarter officiating. Burial will follow at Prairie Grove Cemetery in Crawford. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. with family hour from 6-7 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville. Mrs. Shelton was born in Noxubee County. She had been a factory worker and was a Baptist. She is survived by her husband, Otis Shelton Sr. of Crawford; children: Ada Shelton of Atlanta, Victoria Selvie and John, Otis Jr. and George Shelton, all of Cincinnati, and Kermit and Bennie Ray Shelton, both of Crawford; and 14 grandchildren.
Jasper Ervin Williams
Jasper Ervin Williams age 77 of Talbott, Tenn. died April 7, 2009 at his home from complications of multiple melanoma. Funeral services will be Saturday, April 11, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. from Calvert Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Mike Hunter officiating. Burial will follow in Cedar Bluff Methodist Cemetery Cedar Bluff, MS. Visitation will be Saturday, 12:30 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Calvert Funeral Home of West Point, which is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Williams was born June 18, 1931 in Shaw, and spent his early childhood there. He graduated from West Point high school, West Point, in 1949 and attended Mississippi State College at Starkville. He served in the US Army in Korea from 1951-1952 with the 1st Calvary. He retired with the State of Tennessee Employment Service. He opened and managed the first Holiday Inn in Morristown in 1966, managed the Ramada Inn in Morristown and operated Ervin's Restaurant in White Pine, Tenn. Mr. Williams was an active member of the Panther Springs United Methodist Church. He participated in the choir until his health prevented attendance. He was a former member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Morristown and Christ Methodist Church in West Point. He was preceded in death by his parents: Jasper and Ruth Lyon Williams, Son: Darryl Ervin Williams and brother: Osborne Williams. He leaves his wife: Katheryn Gilreath Williams, two daughters: Mona (John) Jank of Johnson City, Tenn, Lynn (Johnny) Turner of Hurley, MS; sister: Rebecca Ruth Boyd of Brandon; granddaughters: Beth Williams (Jon) Hendren of Banner Elk, NC and Diana Turner of Hurley, MS; and grandson: Samuel Turner of Augusta, GA. two great grandsons: Aaron and William Hendren of Banner Elk, NC; and numerous beloved nieces, nephews, special sisters and brothers-in-law, and cousins in Mississippi, New York, and Tennessee survived him. Pallbearers will be Henry Applewhite, Keith Blair, Bryan Guin, David Orman, Samuel Turner, Robert Blair, and James Law.
Wilson Cunningham
Wilson Cunningham died April 3, 2009, in Starkville. Services are Friday at noon at Northside Baptist Church with the Rev. Marcellus Nabors officiating. Burial will follow at Union Cemetery. Visitation is today from 1-5 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Columbus. Mr. Cunningham was born June 14, 1919, in Carrollton, Ala., to the late Luther Cunningham and Mary Lue Sherman. He was retired from working as an industrial worker for 45 years at Moss Tire, currently Kerr-McGee. He was a member of Infant Baptist Church of Carrollton, Ala. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Daisy Nell Cunningham; brother, Jemus Cunningham; and sisters, Queen Sherman and Maggie Tate. He is survived by his sons, Bobby Hairston of Colton, Calif., and Richard Lee Moore of Columbus; daughter, Viola Miller of Chicago; and brother, Edward Sherman of Detroit. Pallbearers will be Robert Chandler, Jessie and William Gavin, Spencer Gunn Jr., Barry Mordecai and Larry Parker. mug - Hodo,Benny Bennie Hodo Bennie D. -Hodo, 62, died April 4, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Friday at 1 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services Chapel in Columbus with the Rev. Darryl Randolph officiating. Burial will follow at Union Cemetery. Visitation is today from 2-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Hodo was born Nov. 27, 1946, in Reform, Ala., to the late Walter Lee Hodo Sr. and Elvania Bradley Hodo. He worked at Airline Manufacturing Co. for many years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers. He is survived by his sisters, Pearlie Williams of Ethelsville, Ala., Lucille Patton of Reform, Ala., and Ruthie Lee Hodo of Columbus; brother, Walter Hodo Jr. of Reform; stepchildren, Rosie Williams, Ozie Salter, Ora and John Saddler, Ruth Gordon Patmon and Shelly Hogan. Pallbearers will be his nephews.
Bennie D. Hodo
Bennie D. Hodo, 62, died April 4, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Friday at 1 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services Chapel in Columbus with the Rev. Darryl Randolph officiating. Burial will follow at Union Cemetery. Visitation is today from 2-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Hodo was born Nov. 27, 1946, in Reform, Ala., to the late Walter Lee Hodo Sr. and Elvania Bradley Hodo. He worked at Airline Manufacturing Co. for many years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers. He is survived by his sisters, Pearlie Williams of Ethelsville, Ala., Lucille Patton of Reform, Ala., and Ruthie Lee Hodo of Columbus; brother, Walter Hodo Jr. of Reform; stepchildren, Rosie Williams, Ozie Salter, Ora and John Saddler, Ruth Gordon Patmon and Shelly Hogan. Pallbearers will be his nephews.
Edna James
MATHISTON - Edna James, 72, died April 7, 2009, at Regency Hospital of Jackson. Services are Friday at 1 p.m. at Double Springs Church in Webster County with the Revs. Skeet Davis and Travis Gray officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 6-9 p.m. at Wise Funeral Home in Eupora, and the body will be at the church two hours prior to services on Friday. Mrs. James was born Feb. 20, 1937. She was a retired homemaker, and she had been a member of Fame Church of God in Webster County since her childhood. She was preceded in death by her son, Ricky James; and sister, Sylvia Barnett. She is survived by her husband, Richard James of Clarkson; daughters, Debbie Hawes of Walthall and Joy Yancy of Serepty; sisters, Ruby Fason of Fame, Thelma Edmonds of Longview, Mary York of Slate Springs and Sandra Turner of Whitehill; brothers, James Kimbrough of Gainesville, Fla., Lamar Kimbrough of Starkville, Johnny Kimbrough of Fayetteville, Ga., and Jo Kimbrough of Clarkson; 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
Carrie Ann McKinney
MABEN - Carrie Ann McKinney, 70, died April 4, 2009, at Oktibbeha County Hospital-Starkville. Services are Friday at 2 p.m. at Bluff Creek Missionary Baptist Church in West Point with the Rev. R.L. Avant officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 3-6 p.m. at Carter's Mortuary Services Chapel in West Point. Ms. McKinney was born Oct. 15, 1938, in West Point. She was preceded in death by her parents, Isaac and Emma McKinney; and brothers, Roosevelt and John Allen McKinney. She is survived by her brothers, Freddie McKinney and Robert Quinn, both of West Point; sisters, Francis Johnson and Elmaree Avant, both of Maben, Bertha Hudson of Roxbury, Mass., Izola Price and Icie Maxwell, both of Grenada, Dorothy Ford of Cedar Bluff, Shirley Williams of West Point and Mamie Young of Kansas City, Kan.
Julia Dean Mixon
BEAVERTON, Ala. - Julia Dean Mixon, 72, died April 7, 2009, at Druid City Hospital-Tuscaloosa, Ala. Services are Friday at 1 p.m. at Otts Funeral Home Chapel in Sulligent, Ala., with Bro. Mitch Nethery officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Hebron Cemetery. Visitation is today from 6-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Ms. Mixon was born June 4, 1936, in Beaverton to the late Fred and Earline Hogue Roden. She was a member of Mt. Hebron Methodist Church. She attended Sulligent High School and had previously worked at McCoy Manufacturing and Reltoc. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Hollis and Exie Gardner and Scott Roden; and sisters, Jewel DuBose, Nannie Strawbridge and Juanita Mosley. She is survived by her son, Michael S. Mixon of Beaverton; daughters, Marilyn Mixon and Suzanne Sorrells, both of Tuscaloosa; brother, Quinton Gardner of Atlanta; one grandchild and three great-grandchildren.
Dorothy Woods
VERNON, Ala. - Dorothy Woods, 91, died April 8, 2009, at Care Center of Vernon. Services are Friday at 2 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home in Vernon with Bro. Howard Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Friendship Baptist Cemetery in Vernon. Visitation is Friday for one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Mrs. Woods was born Sept. 30, 1917, in Lamar County, Ala., to the late Henry Elbert and Belle Graham. She was a seamstress. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Olus Woods. She is survived by her brother, Henry Ford Graham of Vernon; and sister, Idell Hankins of Vernon.
Don Ray Cox
Don Ray Cox, 79, died Tuesday, April 7, 2009 at his residence in Columbus. His body has been cremated, and internment will take place at a later date. A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, April 11, 2009 at 10:00AM at Memorial Funeral Home.
Mr. Cox was born November 25, 1929 in Gunter, TX to the late James Lee and Gladys Jamison Cox. He was a graduate of Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant, OK. He retired from Civil Service at Columbus Air Force Base after more than 30 years of service. He served in the US Air Force and was a veteran of the Korean Conflict. An avid golfer, Mr. Cox was a 35-year member of Green Oaks Golf Club, where he served as President of the Board of Directors for a number of years. In addition to his parents, a brother, J.L. Cox, predeceased him. Mr. Cox is survived by his wife Peggy Gant Cox of Columbus; sons Kevin Cox (Michelle) of Caledonia, Ms and Dennis Cox of Columbus; brother Troy Cox (Bobbie) of Sherman, TX, sister-in-law Cathy Cox, of Virginia Beach, VA; and grandsons Richard J. Cox (Karen) of Fort Stewart, GA; J. Loren Cox of Caledonia, Ms and granddaughter Tiffany Lynn Cox of San Diego, CA.
Michael Scott White
West Point-Michael Scott White, 24, died April 5 at his residence. Memorial services will be April 10, 2pm from Calvert Funeral Home Chapel, Bro. Jerry Allen officiating. Visitation will be April 10, 1-2pm at Calvert Funeral Home of West Point, which is handling the arrangements. Mr. White was born Nov. 10, 1984 in Columbus to Georgetta Powell White & Terry Scott White. He was a carpenter for Landmark Enterprises, and a Baptist. He is survived by his wife, Amy Dawn White of West Point; daughters, Schyler Nichole White, Schieanne Harmony White & Abbagayle Dawn White of West Point; grandmothers, Alma Powell of Cedar Bluff & June White of Oil Trough, AR; parents, Scott & Georgetta White of Cedar Bluff; sisters, Bandy Wofford (Tim) of West Point & Rebecca White; and brother, Brandon White (Rachel), all of Cedar Bluff.
Robert Cotton
Robert Cotton, 91, died April 1, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church in Shuqualak with the Rev. Ricky Boulden officiating. Burial will follow at Friendship Gholson Cemetery in Gholson. Visitation is Friday from 1-5 p.m. at Jones Memorial Funeral Home in Macon, and the body will be at the church one hour prior to services on Saturday. Mr. Cotton was preceded in death by his wife, Eula Mae Cotton; parents, Jim and Clara Cotton; daughter, Annie Mac; brother, James Cotton; and sister, Ludi Huston. He is survived by his sons, Tommy Turner of Columbus, Clint Turner of Shuqualak, Johnnie Earl Turner of Gholson and Mckinley Turner of Macon; daughters, Shilby Lewis and Lucille Hickman, both of Shuqualak, Sylvia Jackson of Hamilton, Ohio, and Mildred Hill of St. Louis; sister, Mattie Cotton of Loganport, La.; 28 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Louise Armour Jones
Louise Armour Jones went to her heavenly home, Monday, April 6, 2009. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday and continue until service time. Funeral services will be at the National Funeral Home Chapel in Grenada at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 8th with Bro. Tommy Gillon officiating. Burial will follow in the Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Grenada. She was born December 12, 1919, in Red Banks, Mississippi and lived most of her life in Grenada. For the past 11 years, she lived Trinity Retirement Center in Columbus, Mississippi. Louise was thoughtful, unselfish, and kind, never raising her voice or speaking unkindly of anyone. If you had the honor and privilege of knowing her, your life was touched and blessed. She was a member of Fairview Baptist Church in Columbus and had previously belonged to Hebron Baptist Church in Grenada and Elliott Baptist Church in Elliott, MS. Louise is survived by two daughters, Linda Nail and her husband, Jerry, of Columbus, MS and Pat Hitt of Grenada; four grandchildren, Hayes Hall and Heather Scott of Grenada and Lecrisha Jenkins and Misty Holder of Columbus; and five great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Mildred Melton of Grenada and Wilma Roebuck of Cleveland, MS; a brother, J.C. Armour of Arab, Alabama; and several muchloved nieces and nephews.
Larry Boyd Munn
ATHENS - Larry Boyd Munn, 56, died April 3, 2009, at Pioneer Community Hospital-Aberdeen. Services were today at 11 a.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Bro. David Jay and Bro. Randy Spencer officiating. Burial followed at Howell Cemetery. Mr. Munn was born July 10, 1952, in Amory. He was a lifelong resident of the Amory area. He was a 30 year employee of Condea-Vista before his retirement. He was a member of Becker Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his father, Cecil Boyd Munn; sister, Diane Webb; and grandparents, Elzie and Lillie Bailey and Ernest and Leona Munn. He is survived by his wife, Dianne Wright Munn of Athens; mother, Lois Bailey Munn Anderson of Aberdeen; son, Jason Munn of Athens; daughter, Shanna Buse of Mantachie; stepbrother, Randy Anderson of Aberdeen; sisters, Reda Bird of Aberdeen and Brenda Baty of Hamilton; stepsister, Gail Runnels of Amory; and two grandchildren. Pallbearers were Shawn, Anthony and Justin Bird, Shane, Chad and Josh Baty, Chris Webb and Dillion Tate.
Hattie Mae Triplett
Hattie Mae Triplett, 88, died April 3, 2009, in Noxubee County. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Sylvian Ridge Baptist Church in Pineywood Community with the Rev. Ron Wilson officiating. Burial will follow at Snowball Hill Cemetery in Pineywood Community. Visitation is Friday from 1-5 p.m. at Jones Memorial Funeral Home in Macon, and the body will be at the church one hour prior to services on Saturday. Mrs. Triplett was preceded in death by her husband, Chester Triplett; parents, Moses and Spottie Little Macon; sons, Billy Earl and Bobby Jean Macon, and Joe Triplett; four brothers and two sisters. She is survived by her sons, Henry, William and Samuel Paul Macon, Sammie Lee Spann and Walter Triplett; daughters, Inell Foster, Earlene Macon and Irene Kincaid; 43 grandchildren, 84 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.
Phillip Wayne Aultman
Mr. Phillip Wayne Aultman, 68, of Starkville, MS, passed away at his residence on Friday, April 3, 2009. Visitation was scheduled for Sunday, April 5th from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Welch Funeral Home. Funeral services will be on Monday, April 6th at 2:00 p.m. at Adaton Baptist Church conducted by Rev. J. D. Shaw and Rev. Nap Clark. Burial will be in the Adaton Baptist Church Cemetery. He was a member of Adaton Baptist Church. He loved the Lord and Savior and shared that love for children Mr. Aultman is preceded in death by his parents, Clarence, Letha Mae Mitchell Aultman and one sister Jean Springer. He is survived by his wife, Charlotte Simmons Aultman of Starkville, MS; two sons, Duane Aultman (Cathy) of Starkville, MS; and Randy Aultman (Melissa) Starkville, MS; two step-sons, Chris Simmons of Hattiesburg, MS; and Glen Simmons of Mathiston, MS; grandchildren, Stephanie, Mary Virginia, Kristen, Lindsey, Brandon, Nathan and Cindy; greatgrandchildren, Sarah and Melody.
Faye Nell Hunter
Faye Nell Hunter, age 83, died April 3, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, MS. Services will be held Tuesday April 7, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. A graveside service will follow the funeral at 3:30 PM at Arbor Grove Cemetery near Houston, MS. Visitation will be at Memorial Funeral Home on Monday, April 6, 2009 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM Mrs. Hunter was born on May 22, 1925, in Chickasaw County to the late Clyde A. and Doda Bell Callahan Sr. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and retired from the Post Office at Mississippi University for Women. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her brother Clyde Callahan Jr. and her step-mother Fannie Reed Callahan. Faye, "Nana", was a special woman who touched everyone's life in a very special way. She was someone that everyone could count on for anything. She never complained; she did everything she could for anybody with a smile on her face. She not only was reliable, but also a comforter. She had the most comforting smile and touch. If she ever touched you with her hands, she touched you with her heart. She also was a faithful, Christian woman and everyone knew it. If she was not at Church, everyone knew something was wrong. She not only showed her Christian faith by attending church but also in her everyday life. She was a great Christian example and everyone saw that. She also was the backbone for her family. She kept the family going strong and kept everyone straight. She kept in touch with her family daily. She always was the one to tell everyone else what the news was, even before the family knew it. She never met a stranger. She was the type of person everyone loved to be around. Every time she would go somewhere she would always see someone she knew, no matter where she went. Everyone loved "Nana". The lesson we can learn from "Nana" is to do the little things. To sum it all up, she did the little things and was not selfish while doing them. She never was worried about herself, just about everyone else. This is what bonded her to everyone she came in contact with. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends, but if she were here, she would tell us to not be sad, but to be happy, because she is with her Saviour, walking hand in hand, touching His heart, just like she touched ours. Survivors include her husband - Douglas Hunter, Sr. of Columbus, MS; daughter - Kathy Brewer (Al) of Meridian, MS; son - Doug Hunter, Jr. of Cody, WY; sisters - Zette Terry of Shreveport, LA, Elizabeth Cole (Max) of Brandon, MS, and Pat Carver of Columbus, MS; brother - John Callahan (Jean) of Okolona, MS; grandchildren -Coby Hutchinson, Shannon Williams, Candice Hunter Kennedy, and Angela Hunter Jackson; great-grandchildren -Hunter Hutchinson, Dakota Hutchinson, and Tyler Kennedy. Pallbearers will be Reggie Callahan, Jay Terry, Jeff Carver, Al Hunter, Mark Walls, and Rufus Mason.
Clayton Baker
STURGIS - Clayton Baker, 87, died April 1, 2009, at his residence. Services are Monday at 1 p.m. at Campbell Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Winona with the Rev. Joseph Lampkin officiating. Burial will follow at Haynes Creek Cemetery in Winona. Visitation is today from 2-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville. Mr. Baker was born in Montgomery County. He was a factory worker.
Zera H. Beall
Zera H. Beall, age 92, of Griffin, GA, passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2009. The family will receive friends on Sunday, April 5, 2009 from 1:00pm until the hour of service. Following the visitation, funeral services will be at 2:30 pm in the chapel of Conner-Westbury Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery. She is preceded in death by husband, Joe H. 'Buddy' Beall and sons, Ed Beall and Hugh Beall. Survivors include her daughter, Willa Dean Watkins of Louisville, Mississippi; son and daughter-in-law, Frank and Anne Beall of Caldonia, Mississippi; daughter-in-law, Shirley Beall; 6 grandchildren; 7 great-greatgrandchildren.
John Robert Coggins, Sr.
John Robert Coggins, Sr., 82, of Columbus, MS, passed away Tuesday, March 31, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital - GT, Columbus, MS. Visitation was held Thursday, April 2, 2009, from 1 to 2 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral Services were held Thursday, April 2, 2009 at 2 PM in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Ralph Windle, officiating and Bro. Steve Lammons, assisting. Interment was in Furnace Hill Cemetery, Vernon, AL with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing. Mr. Coggins was born March 9, 1927, in Clay County, MS, to the late Clarence and Mae Bell Gregg Coggins and was a lifetime resident of Columbus, MS. He retired as a supervisor with the Corp. of Engineers in 1989 and was a World War II veteran of the U.S. Army. Mr. Coggins was "Farmer of the Year 1984", in Noxubee County, MS; ASCS Chairman, Noxubee County and Justice of Peace, Noxubee County. He was a long time deacon of Deerbrook Baptist Church and a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Columbus, MS. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers - Hubert Coggins, Joe Coggins, James David Coggins; sisters - Della Weese Gholson and Mary Alice Yeatman. Mr. Coggins is survived by his wife - Judy Coggins, Columbus, MS; daughters - Jeanette (John) Chancellor, Counce, TN; Janice Coggins, Scottsdale, AZ; Suzette Coggins, Denver, CO; son - John Coggins, Jr., Columbus, MS; sisters -Ella Mae Breland, Mathiston, MS; Anna Bell Orr, West Point, MS; Jane Gholson, West Point, MS; Peggy Whitaker, Memphis, TN; brother - Charles Edward Coggins, Smithville, MS; grandchildren - John Murphy Chancellor, Jr.; and Callie Zaugg; great-grandchildren - Laruen Daly, Leah Chancellor, Kelsey Chancellor, John Chancellor, III, Chancellor Zaugg, Peyton Zaugg, Rainey Marie Zaugg and great-great grandson - Don J. Daly, III. Pallbearers were Robert Cunningham, Lester "Poo" Chancellor, Walter Riddell, Jay Chancellor, Don Clardy and J. D. Pugh, Jr.
Robin Dale Fuller
Robin Dale Fuller, age 65, passed away at her home in Dunwoody, GA on Thursday, April 2, 2009. The funeral service will be held at Dunwoody United Methodist Church, 1548 Mt. Vernon Road, Dunwoody, at 2 pm, Sunday, April 5, 2009. Interment will follow in Jackson, MS on Monday. She was born June 18, 1943, in Columbus, MS, the daughter of the late S.S. and Dorothy Dale. During her long career as an Atlanta educator, Robin taught thousands of young students, first at R.L. Hope Elementary School and then at The Lovett School, where she was a much loved and honored middle school English teacher for 39 years. The classroom was her focus in life. Robin was happiest when teaching her students whom she encouraged to be the best that they could be academically, athletically, and emotionally. She will always be remembered by her classes as an instructor who cared deeply for their welfare and development into well-rounded adults. In 1984, she received one of the first Woodward Awards for outstanding teaching, and last year was named recipient of the Lovett Alumni Award for Excellence in Teaching. Robin outlived her husband, Harold Fuller, by several years. Robin is survived by her beloved brothers, Doug Dale of Jackson, MS, and Richard Dale and his wife of Houston, TX, and a half brother, Bob Dale, of St. Petersburg, FL; four nieces and a nephew along with nine great-nieces and nephews complete Robin's close family.
Marvin McKay
GUIN, Ala. - Marvin McKay, 99, died April 3, 2009, at Sunset Manor Nursing Home in Guin. Services are Monday at 2 p.m. at the Norwood Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Scott Stokes officiating. Burial will follow at Guin City Cemetery. Mr. McKay was born in Guin to the late Henry Tuttle and Mary Elizabeth Wilson McKay. He was a lifelong resident of Guin and was a member of Guin First Baptist Church. He worked for Rex Wright Roofing and the town of Guin. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Addie Mae Wisham McKay; son, James Henry McKay; and a granddaughter. He is survived by two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Charles C. Smith
Charles C. Smith, 71, of Millport, AL passed away April 2, 2009 at DCH Medical Center-Tuscaloosa, AL. Funeral service will be held Sunday, April 5, 2009 at Dowdle Funeral Home Chapel with Ken Bozeman officiating. Burial will follow at Millport City Cemetery, Millport, AL. Visitation was held Saturday, April 4, 2009 from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Dowdle Funeral Home. Dowdle Funeral Home of Millport, AL is in charge of arrangements. Charles Smith was born the son of Azilee Dean and Mayfield Smith. Mr. Smith married Faye Shaw Smith. He owned and operated Smith & Williams TV service for many years, before going to work at Weyerhaeuser where he retired. After his retiring he and his wife did plumbing and electrical work until his health began to decline. He loved to fish and ride horses. Mr. Smith was a member of Macedonia free Will Baptist Church and also a member of Bethlehem Volunteer Fire Dept. He was a loving husband, father and papa. In addition to his mother and father, Mr. Smith is predeceased by his brothers, Jim Smith and Stanley Smith; and sister, Elaine Shirley. Mr. Smith is survived by his wife of 50 years, Faye Shaw Smith of Millport, AL; daughters, Bonnie (Ken) Wilson and Cynthia (Poo) Smith all of Millport, AL; grandchildren, Kristy (Darren) Allbritton of Columbus, MS and Kendra Wilson of Millport, AL; sister, Earlene Swendenburg of Reform, AL; brother; George Rayford (Virginia) Smith; mother-inlaw, Mozelle Shaw of Millport, AL; and brother- in-law and sister-in-law, David and Nina Faye Shaw of Millport, AL, Pallbearers will be Scott Smith, Mike Shaw, Earl Shaw, Jerome Williams, Ray Donald Stokes and Readus Stokes.
Charles Allen Walker
MOBILE, Ala. - Charles Allen Walker, 51, died April 3, 2009, in Montgomery. Services are today at 2 p.m. at Full Gospel Worship Center in Vernon, Ala., with Bro. James Godsey officiating. Burial will be at the adjoining cemetery. Visitation is today from 1 p.m. until service time. Otts Funeral Home of Sulligent, Ala., is in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Walker was born May 15, 1957, in Mobile County, Ala., to Virginia Fuller Rivers and the late Wade Buckley. He served in the U.S. Army and attended Full Gospel Worship Center. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his brothers, Morris Walker of Vernon and David Buckley of Friendswood, Texas. Pallbearers will be Billy Allen, James Ives, Jimmy Downey, David Conwill and Caleb Sherman.
John Willis "Buddy" Armstrong
ABERDEEN - John Willis "Buddy" Armstrong, 84, died April 1, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo. Services are Saturday at noon at Aberdeen First Christian Church with Bro. George Forbes officiating. Burial with military rites will follow at New Hope Cemetery. Visitation is Saturday for one hour prior to services at the church. Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home in Aberdeen is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Armstrong was born Aug. 27, 1924, in Walnut Ridge, Ark., to the late Grover Cleveland Armstrong and Bessie Elizabeth Sneed Armstrong. He lived in Memphis, Tenn., prior to moving to Aberdeen in 1994. He retired as stock expeditor at International Harvester. He was awarded three purple hearts and a bronze star while serving as a sergeant in the U.S. Army in the Pacific in World War II. He was a member of First Christian Church of Aberdeen. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Patsy Holderfield. He is survived by his wife, Berta Morgan Armstrong of Aberdeen; daughters, Marian Partridge and Beth Crouch, both of Cordova, Tenn., and Susan Davis of Southaven; son, John Richard Armstrong of Olive Branch; sisters, Helen Morrison of Bay, Ark., and Judy Cole of Paragould, Ark.; seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Pallbearers will be his grandsons and his nephew.
Jimmie Bell Jr
Jimmie Bell Jr., 73, died March 9, 2009, in Los Angeles. Memorial services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville with the Rev. Willie Jenkins officiating. He is survived by his sons, Avery Bell of Los Angeles and Broderick Bell of Greensboro, N.C.; daughter, Tara Bell of Starkville; and two grandchildren.
Courtrous Gabrielle Ellis
ARTESIA - Courtrous Gabrielle Ellis, 20, died March 25, 2009, in Starkville. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Truevine MB Church in Starkville with the Rev. Gregory Mostella officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from noon-6 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Ms. Ellis was born June 21, 1988, in Oktibbeha County. She was a 2008 graduate of West Lowndes High School. She was a member of ROTC and Truevine MB Church, where she served on the Usher Board and in the youth choir. She was preceded in death by her father, Eli Elsie Bankhead; and grandfather, Elbert Ellis Sr. She is survived by her mother, Juanita Ellis of Artesia; sisters, Roxanne, Shatera, Drucillia and Alexis Ellis, and Dyquesha Bankhead, all of Artesia; brothers, Dontavious Ellis and Marquil Sherrod of Artesia; and grandparents, Geneva Rice of Artesia, Mildred Ross of Columbus and B.J. Bankhead of Starkville.
Lenny Ervin
BROOKSVILLE - Lenny Ervin, 90, died March 28, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Jesus is the Door Pentecostal Church in Brooksville with the Rev. Leroy Horne officiating. Burial will follow at Brooksville Cemetery. Visitation is today from 2-5 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Macon. Mr. Ervin was born Aug. 31, 1918, in Rosedale to the late John Smith and Lula Daily-Smith. He is survived by his sons, Richard Ervin Jr. of Columbus and James Willie Ervin of Brooksville; daughters, Barbara Jean Ervin of Cleveland, Ohio, Theresa Ricks, Catherine Ervin and Rosie Ervin, all of Itta Bena, Lenny Bell Ervin of Brooksville and Thephine Prince of Virginia Beach, Va. Pallbearers will be Derrick Dooley, Willie Lee Rice, Sammie Clemons, and Earlie, Andrew and Eddie Henley.
Wayne Bernard Gandy
STARKVILLE - Wayne Bernard Gandy, 43, died March 29, 2009, at Alexian Brothers Hospital-St. Louis. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Lindsey Chapel United Methodist Church with the Rev. Kenneth Casey officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville. Mr. Gandy was born in Chicago. He worked as a concrete finisher and he was a Baptist.
Randy Kelsey
EUPORA - Randy Kelsey, 41, died April 1, 2009. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Wise Funeral Home Chapel in Eupora with the Rev. Don Parish officiating. Burial will follow at Bluff Springs Cemetery in Choctaw County. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Kelsey was born Jan. 25, 1968. He worked as a carpenter and was a Baptist. He is survived by his mother, Nell Severinski of Eupora; sisters, Barbara Cooper of Webster County and Patricia Young of Choctaw County; and brother, Edward Kelsey Jr. of Ashland.
Dennis Lagrone
SHUQUALAK - Dennis Lagrone, 50, died March 26, 2009, at Noxubee General Hospital. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Second Running Water Church with the Rev. Tyrone Ellis officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 1-5 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Macon. Mr. Lagrone was born Dec. 18, 1959, in New Orleans. He worked as the janitor at Reed School for many years. He was preceded in death by his father, Odera Lagrone. He is survived by his mother, Laura B. Brandy of Shuqualak; sisters, Lillie B. Thomas of Tuscaloosa, Ala., and Darlene White, Rosie Dunn, Maurice Oats and Mary Ann Dunn, all of Shuqualak; brothers, Clearance Simpson of Wahalak, Glenn Lagrone of Houston, Texas, Melvin Lagrone of Shuqualak, Marvin Brandy of Macon and Cleve Brandy of Columbus. Pallbearers will be his friends and family.
Effie King McKellar
Effie King McKellar, 90, of Columbus, MS passed away Wednesday, April 1, 2009, at Aurora Australis Lodge, Columbus, MS. Visitation will be held Saturday, April 4, 2009, from 1 to 2 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, April 4, 2009, at 2 PM in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Charlie Whitney officiating. Interment will be in Friendship Cemetery, Columbus, MS, with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing. Mrs. McKellar was born April 29, 1918, in Detroit, AL, to the late McClusky and Lottie Allen Johnson and was a lifetime resident of Columbus, MS. She retired as an inspector with Seminole Manufacturing after 42 years of service. Mrs. McKellar enjoyed fishing, traveling, playing dominos, dancing, volunteering as a "Pink Lady" at BMH-GT and spending time with her friends and family. Mrs. McKellar was a member of Calvary Baptist Church, Columbus, MS. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Granville King,and daughter, Mittie Jean Oliver. Mrs. McKellar is survived by her husband - W. D. McKellar; daughter - Patricia Wharton; step-daughters - Estelle (Charles) Cook, Alice Faye (Dave) Goodwin,and Mary Nell (Bob) Shadrack; step-son - Charles McKellar; granddaughters - Terri Wharton Perry and Debbie Oliver (Corey) Butler; and grandson - Corky (Britt) Wharton. Pallbearers will be Roy King, T. H. Oswalt, Kirk McKellar; Johnny Mac McCrary, Clint Hanson and Chuck Cook.
Fannie Louise Pleas
Fannie Louise Pleas, 84, died March 29, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Saturday at noon at Pleasant Grove MB Church in Columbus with Pastor Clifford Reynolds officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery. Visitation is today from noon-6 p.m. at Carter's Funeral Services of Columbus. Mrs. Pleas was born July 28, 1924, in Lowndes County to the late William Howard and Betty Harris. She was a member of Pleasant Grove MB Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Pleas; son, Charles Neely; three sisters and two brothers. She is survived by her sisters, Josephine Webber and Eva Howard Harris, both of Columbus, Ruby Douglas and Alma McCauley, both of St. Louis, and Edna Howard of Chicago; brother, William Howard of St. Louis; two grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Wilson Banks, Jerry and Joseph Harris, Mark Douglas, and Jeffery and Curtis Webber.
John Price Jr.
BROOKSVILLE - John Price Jr., 71, died March 25, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. Services are Saturday at 2 p.m. at Mt. Bethel MB Church in Macon with the Rev. Authur Davis officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 1-5 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Macon. Mr. Price was born Jan. 1, 1938, in Alabama to the late John Price Sr. and Nancy Lee Murray. He was a laborer. He is survived by his wife, Ethel Price; sons, Dan, Preston, Johnny and Walter Price, all of New York; daughter, Lillie P. Price of New York; sisters, Lillie Johnson and Mattie Hampton both of Brooksville, and Lola Bush of Rochester, Minn.; 12 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Johnny and Preston Price, Robert McDavid, and Cozen, Micheal and
Hazel T. Strong
STARKVILLE - Hazel T. Strong, 86, died March 26, 2009, at Oktibbeha County Hospital. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Griffin United Methodist Church with the Rev. Eddie Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Oddfellows Cemetery. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home in Starkville. Mrs. Strong was born in Oktibbeha County. She was a domestic worker. She is survived by her sons, Charles Henry Strong, Roy Fakir Mateen, Rafiq H. Mateen and Thomas B. Strong Taylor, all of Starkville; brothers, Roosevelt and Willie McGruder Taylor, both of Starkville; and eight grandchildren.
Jimmie Will Tate
Jimmie Will Tate, 53, died March 31, 2009, in Columbus. Services are Saturday at 1 p.m. at Northside MB Church with the Rev. Sammie White officiating. Burial will follow at Union Cemetery in Columbus. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. at Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Columbus. Mr. Tate was born Nov. 30, 1955. He worked in construction and was a member of Oakland Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his mother, Daisy Ella Tate. He is survived by his wife, Diana Tate; daughters, Tya Mosley of Jackson and Chiquita Armistad of Columbus; sons, Taurus Brown Tate of Dallas, Roderick Armistad and Jimmie Tate of Columbus; sisters, Dorothy Brooks and Essie Robinson, both of Columbus, Ada M. Tate of Crawford, Lillie Topp of Columbus, Elizabeth Dial of Kansas City, Mo., Ossie Sykes of South Haven; brother, Richard Tate of Los Angeles, Edmond McDavis Jr., and L.C., Johnny, Jason, Willie and Curtis McDavid, all of Columbus, and Roy McDavid of St. Louis; father, Edmond McDavis Sr.; grandmother, Hattie B. Stewart; and four grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Terry, Roy Jr. and Ronnie Turner, David Floyd, James Albert Johnson, and L.C. and Roy Lee Stewart.
Krystina Kelsey Tomlinson
EUPORA - Krystina Kelsey Tomlinson, 19, died April 1, 2009. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Wise Funeral Home Chapel in Eupora with the Rev. Don Parish officiating. Burial will follow at Bluff Springs Cemetery in Choctaw County. Visitation is today from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Tomlinson was born April 10, 1989, in Starkville. She worked as a waitress and was a Baptist. She is survived by her husband, Cody Tomlinson of Ripley; mother, Rita Jane Walker of New Castle, Ind.; father, Edward Kelsey Jr. of Ashland; grandmother, Nell Medders Severinski of Eupora; sisters, Krystal Estes of Eupora, Kimberly Strickland of Ashland and Kayla Walker of New Castle, Ind.; and brothers, Edward Kelsey II of Ashland and Danny Wayne Walker of New Castle.
Annie Katherine West
HAMILTON - Annie Katherine West, 82, died March 30, 2009, at her residence in East Peoria, Ill. Services were today at 11 a.m. at Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Aberdeen with the Rev. Roger McGrew officiating. Burial followed at Center Hill Cemetery. Ms. West was born May 20, 1926, to the late John Thomas West and Addie Mae Leamon West in Hamilton. She lived in Hamilton until January 1997 and then moved to East Peoria, Ill. She was a graduate of Hamilton High School. She retired as office manager of Bradley Concrete of Aberdeen. She is survived by her brother, Robert West of East Peoria, Ill. Pallbearers were Ricky Robinson, Dale Andrews James Bruce West, Dean Minga, Aaron Welch and Tom Tapper.
Pauline VonKanel Butler
Pauline VonKanel Butler, age 91, died March 31, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital Golden Triangle in Columbus, MS. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will be at Memorial Funeral Home on Wednesday, April 1, 2009, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Services will be held in the Chapel of Memorial Funeral Home Thursday, April 2, 2009, at 2:00 PM with Brother Bill Lemonds and Dr. Charles McInturf officiating. Burial will follow in Brooksville Cemetery. The daughter of the late Paul and Rosena Plattner VonKanel, Mrs. Butler was born October 10, 1917, in Barton, AR. She and her family moved to Brooksville when she was a young girl, and she graduated from Brooksville High School in 1934. She married Oscar Eugene Butler, December 22, 1939. Widowed in 1967, Mrs. Butler continued to live on the family farm, Deerbrook for a total of 63 years. A charter member of Deerbrook Baptist Church in 1945, Mrs. Butler was a Sunday School teacher, Training Union Director and song leader. She worked briefly at American Bosch, and retired from Golden Triangle Regional Medical Center after 23 years as a Nurse Assistant. To Pauline life meant that at the end of life, the question will be not how much you have got, but how much you have given; not how much you have won, but how much you have done; not how much you have saved, but how much you have sacrificed; not how much you were honored, but how much you have loved and served. In addition to her parents and husband Oscar E. Butler, she was predeceased by three brothers, William, Edmond and Earnest Von Kanel. Mrs. Butler is survived by three sons - David Butler (Tina) of Starkville, MS, William H. Butler (Becky) of Brooksville, MS and Carey N. Butler (Debbie) of Columbus, MS; two daughters - Frances Butler King (Ray) of Naples, FL and Patricia Butler Moran (Doug) of Shreveport, LA; sister - Carolyn Guist of Columbus, MS; brothers - Herman VonKanel (Pearl) of Caledonia, MS and Lewis VonKanel (Laverne) of Pascagoula, MS and sister-in-law- Clara VonKanel of Columbus, MS. She is also survived by thirteen grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Todd Jackson, Cliff Paxton, Tyler Higginbotham, Brad Butler, Hank Butler, Ben Butler, Eric Ross, Charles Avery and John James Butler.
Eloise W. Cochrane
CARROLLTON, Ala. - Eloise W. Cochrane, 71, died March 31, 2009, at her residence. Services are Friday at 2 p.m. at Dogwood Chapel with the Rev. Keith Crowley officiating. Burial will follow at Magnolia Memorial Gardens. Visitation is Thursday from 6-8 p.m. at Dogwood Chapel in Aliceville, Ala. Skelton Funeral Home of Reform, Ala., is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Cochrane was born June 23, 1937, in Thomasville, Ala., to the late Frank Grady Walker and Mable Ethridge Walker. She was a member of Pentecostal Church of God and a retired employee of Huyck Felt Co. She was a resident of Pickens County for the past 49 years. She is survived by her sons, James V. Cochrane III and John D. Cochrane; sisters, Sandra Gail Johnson, Syble Smith and Margaret Broome; one granddaughter and three great-grandchildren.
Ellis Elmer Harris
Ellis Elmer Harris, age 93, died Monday, March 30, 2009, at Pioneer Community Hospital in Aberdeen, MS. Services will be at 1:00 pm on Thursday, April 2, 2009, at the Aberdeen First Baptist Church with Bro. Roy McKay and Bro. Chris Thomas officiating. Burial will be in Oddfellows Rest Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 until 7:00 pm, Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home in Aberdeen. Tisdale-Lann Memorial Funeral Home in Aberdeen will be in charge of the services. He was born March 17, 1916, to Greenie Grady Harris and Arbie Maude Roebuck Harris in Lee County. Monroe County has been his home for the past 80 years. He graduated from Wren High School and furthered his education at Draughon Business College, State College (MSU), and Alabama Polytech (Auburn). Mr. Harris was a Deacon Emeritis and Sunday school teacher at First Baptist Church of Aberdeen. He served his country in the U.S. Army and was a member of the Amercan Legion for 62 years. He owned and operated Aberdeen Furniture & Appliance Company until his retirement in 1983. He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Jenny Ruth Harris; and a twin brother, Ellie Elvin Harris. Mr. Harris is survived by his wife of 68 years, Vergie Mae Miller Harris of Aberdeen; one daughter, Rosalind Harris Morris of Clinton, MS; one sister, Pauline Griffin of Ft. Walton Beach, FL; three grandsons, John Morris (Angela) of Tunica, MS, Jason Morris of Lewisville, TX and David Morris (Julie) of Bolton, MS; and seven great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Tommy Plunkett, Jim Reddoch, Mike Bunch, Jim Ballard, Jerry Smothers, Walker James and Gene White.
Felix Johnson
WEST POINT - Felix Johnson, 90, died March 30, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center–West Point. Services are Thursday at 10 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with the Rev. Samuel Messina officiating. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation is Thursday for one hour prior to services at the church. Robinson Funeral Home of West Point is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Johnson was born Feb. 16, 1919, in Starkville to the late Olive Myrtle Fulton and Felix Ernest Johnson Sr. He was a retired heavy equipment operator. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and a veteran of the U.S. Army Air Corps, having served during World War II. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Felix Alan Johnson. He is survived by his wife, Virginia K. Johnson of West Point; son, Charles Johnson of West Point; daughters, Helen Louise Langford of West Point, Virginia Lynn Kyle of Columbus and Mary Ann Britt of Starkville; brother, William E. Johnson of Chipley, Fla.; 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Jonathan, Kevin and Christopher Johnson, Tim Britt, and Tom and T.J. Kyle.
Alice Doughty McGahey
Alice Doughty McGahey, 91, of Columbus, MS, passed away Sunday, March 29, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-GT, Columbus, MS. Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 1, 2009, from 6 to 8 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 2, 2009, at 11AM at Fairview Baptist Church, Columbus, MS with Bro. Mickey Dalrymple and Bro. Matt Haines officiating. Mrs. McGahey will lie in state from 10 to 11 AM prior to the service. Interment will be in Friendship Cemetery, Columbus, MS with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS directing. Mrs. McGahey was born August 5, 1917, in Northport, AL, to the late Bruce and Hazie Malinda Ayers Doughty and was a resident of Columbus, MS for the past seventy years having moved from Northport, AL. She was a charter member of Fairview Baptist Church, Columbus, MS and a member of Pat Wallace's Sunday School Class. Mrs. McGahey was retired after twenty-one years of service as assistant manager with Dreyfus Jewelry and was a sales representative with Stanley Home Products. She loved cooking, traveling, and riding bicycles. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Levert McGahey. Mrs. McGahey is survived by her daughters – Jo Ann Brownlee, Jasper, CA; Brenda (Ray) Luckie, Austin, TX; Mary Alice (Doug) Rasberry, Columbus, MS; sisters – Mary Nell Vail, Pensacola, FL; Dena Lancashire, Winter Haven, FL; Gene Beary, Columbus, MS; brother – John Doughty, Spokane, WA; six grandchildren - Brad Haines, Matt Haines, Theresa Senter, Kay Lawrence, Kimberly Myrick, and Clayton Luckie; seven great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Brad Haines, Clayton Luckie, Adam Senter, Eric Breier, Sam Myrick, Andrew Bryan, Beau Senter and Matt Haines.
Pete Roberts
Pete Roberts, 61 of Columbus, MS, passed away Sunday, March 29, 2009, at his residence. Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 1, 2009 from 6:30 – 7:30 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, April 1, 2009, at 7:30 PM in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel with David Knight officiating. Mr. Roberts was born December 2, 1947, in Meridian, MS, to the late Samuel Leslie Roberts and Irma Jewel Shepherd Bynog and was a lifetime resident of Columbus, MS. He was self employed with ten years of service in the home construction business and a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Mr. Roberts was a local musician, loved playing music with bands, racing, was a MSU Bulldog fan, and enjoyed collecting Indian memorabilia of his Cherokee heritage. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Frances Brewer. Mr. Roberts is survived by his son, Bryan Roberts, Columbus, MS; daughter, Brandi (Derrick) Brooks, Jena, LA; brother, Chuck Smith, Puerto Rico; grandson, Chance Brooks, an unborn grandchild and a host of nieces and nephews.
Grafton Wayne Junkins
Grafton Wayne Junkins, 69, of Columbus, MS, passed away Sunday, March 29, 2009, at BMH-GT, Columbus, MS. Visitation was held Tuesday, March 31, 2009, from 10 - 11 AM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. A memorial service was held Tuesday, March 31, 2009, at 11 AM in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel, Columbus, MS, with Bro. Alan Burchfield officiating. Lowndes Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Junkins was born November 8, 1939, in Pickens County, AL, to the late Lando and Trilla Hughes Junkins and was a resident of Columbus for the past thirty-eight years having moved from Pickens County, AL. Mr. Junkins was a retired salesman for M & W Butane and a veteran of the United States Army. He enjoyed gardening, woodworking and especially making birdhouses. Mr. Junkins is survived by his daughters - Patricia (Rick) Bryant, West Palm Beach, FL, Lisa (Keith) Burchfield, Columbus, MS; grandchildren - Alan Burchfield, Ashley Cleveland, Abby Burchfield, Ashley Elinburg, Steven Bryant, Joey Bryant, Justin Bryant, Christie Bryant and great-grandchild - Wesley Burchfield.
Robbie L. Knight
GUIN, Ala. - Robbie L. Knight, 87, died March 29, 2009, at NMMC-Hamilton, Ala. Services are today at 2 p.m. at Norwood Funeral Home Chapel in Guin with Bro. Mac Buttram officiating. Burial will follow at Guin City Cemetery. Mrs. Knight was born in Winfield, Ala., to the late William Veldon and Bertha Geneva Sandlin Smith. She had lived in Guin most of her life and was a member of Guin Free Will Baptist Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, David Garnett Knight; and daughter, Lucy Ann Tuck. She is survived by her sons, Dr. David L. Knight of Hamilton, Ala., Morris Edward Knight of Columbus, and William Donald and Carlon H. Knight, both of Guin; sisters, Johnnie Johnson of Auburn, Ala., Grace Card of Florida and Mildred Tucker of Hueytown, Ala.; brothers, the Rev. Bill Ray Smith of Fayette, Ala., and Doyle Smith of Atlanta; 17 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.
Donnie Ray Lindsey
AMORY - Donnie Ray Lindsey, 51, died March 28, 2009, at Gilmore Memorial Regional Medical Center-Amory. Services are today at 2 p.m. at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Amory with Bro. Dempsey Roland officiating. Graveside services are today at 4 p.m. at Sandy Springs Cemetery in Itawamba County. Visitation will continue until service time today at the funeral home. Mr. Lindsey was born May 29, 1957, in Russellville, Ala., to the late Resel and Wilma Boyd Lindsey. He lived in Amory most of his life and was Baptist. He had worked in construction. He was a member of the NRA. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Lynn Beasely; grandparents, Lush and Leola Lindsey and Hosea and Henrietta Lindley Boyd. He is survived by his son, Jesse Lindsey of Amory; daughter, Brandy Lindsey of Brookhaven; fiancÈ, Cindy Weaver of Amory; sisters, Sherry Hendrix of Mooreville and Karen Goodrich of Verona; and one grandchild. Pallbearers will be Wayne and Roy Dale Lindsey, Benny Hill, Freddy and Billy Harris, Ricky Mink, Joey Bennett and Ottis Boyd.
Vermon Jones Powell
ALICEVILLE, Ala. - Vermon Jones Powell, 90, died March 28, 2009, at Aliceville Manor Nursing Home. Services are Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Garden Baptist Church with the Revs. David Barrentine and Raymond Robertson officiating. Burial will follow at Franconia-Oak Grove Cemetery. Visitation is Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. at Dogwood Chapel in Aliceville, and the body will be at the church 30 minutes prior to services on Wednesday. Skelton Funeral Home of Reform, Ala., is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Powell was born May 14, 1918, in Fayette County, Ala., to the late Felix Barnes and Mertie Belle Housh Barnes. She was a member of Garden Baptist Church and a homemaker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, Robert Jones Sr. and Carson Powell. She is survived by her sons, Robert E. Jones Jr. of Pell City, Ala., and Benny Jones of Oak Hill, Fla.; stepsons, Michael Powell of Montgomery, Ala., and Cleveland Powell of Little Rock, Ark.; three grandchildren, four stepgrandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Jane Ellen Taylor
VERNON, Ala. - Jane Ellen Taylor, 69, died March 29, 2009, at Long Term Hospital-Tuscaloosa, Ala. Services are Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home in Vernon with Bro. J.M. Hawkins officiating. Burial will follow at Christian Chapel Cemetery in Vernon. Visitation is today from 6-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Ms. Taylor was born Sept. 3, 1939, in Lamar County, Ala. She had worked as a seamstress. She was preceded in death by her father, David M. Stanley. She is survived by her son, James David Taylor of Vernon; daughter, Janet Rasmussen of Columbus; mother, Jessie Stanley of Columbus; two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Louis M. Thomasson
Louis M. Thomasson, 88, of Columbus, MS passed away Friday, March 27, 2009, at Baptist Memorial Hospital - GT, Columbus, MS. Visitation was held Sunday, March 29, 2009, from 6 - 8 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral Services will be held Monday, March 30, 2009, at 4 PM in the Lowndes Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Kenny Gardner officiating and Bro. Michael Shelton assisting. Interment will be in Mt. Zion Cemetery, Columbus, MS, with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS, directing. Mr. Thomasson was born October 17, 1920, in Millport, AL to the late Marshall and Mollie Bell Parks Thomasson and has been a resident of Columbus, MS since 1956 having moved from Clarksdale, MS. He was a veteran of World War II, assigned the 502nd Quarter Master Car Company, often driving General Patton to the battlefield. Mr. Thomasson also participated in the Normandy invasion. He worked at Freehart Bakery and retired from Hardin's Bakery. In addition to his parents, Mr. Thomasson is preceded in death by four brothers and two sisters. Mr. Thomasson is survived by his wife of 62 years, Marcine Fowler Thomasson, Columbus, MS; sons, Alan Thomasson, Gulfport, MS and Larry (Jenny) Thomasson, Columbus, MS; brothers, Bill Thomasson and Sammy (Diane) Thomasson, both of Memphis, TN; grandson, Bryant (Jessica) Thomasson, Columbus, MS; and great grandson, Hunter Thomasson, Columbus, MS. Pallbearers will be John Beard, Bryant Thomasson, Donald Beard, Tony Shelton, Danny Richardson, and Heath Beard.
Dorothy P. Vaughn
Dorothy P. Vaughn, 79, of Columbus, MS passed away Friday, March 27, 2009, at Trinity Health Care, Columbus, MS. Visitation was held Sunday, March 29, 2009, from 5 to 7 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral Services will be held Monday, March 30, 2009, at 1 PM at Fairview Baptist Church, Columbus, MS, with Bro. Mickey Dalrymple officiating and Bro. Sammy Crawford assisting. Interment will be in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Columbus, MS, with Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS, directing. Mrs. Vaughn was born April 1, 1929, to the late William Coley and Lillie Mae Perrigan Peaks and was a lifetime resident of Columbus, MS. She was a member of Fairview Baptist Church, Columbus, MS, and was a teacher's assistant at Sale Elementary for four years. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Claude Vaughn and sister, Mary Shepherd. Mrs. Vaughn is survived by her daughter, Dorothy Jean Vaughn (Mike) Dalen, Roswell, GA; son, Royce Claude (Marlys) Vaughn, Brandon, MS; grandchildren, Kelly Brislin Bennett, Tyler Brislin, Eric Vaughn, Leslie Vaughn, Brooke Dalen, Patrick Dalen; and great grandchildren, Gracie Marie Wrinkle, Jae Helline Brislin, and Kristin Bennett. Pallbearers will be Danny Shepherd, Mike Carter, Bobby Ward, Terry Shepherd, Jesse Carter, and Mark Vaughn.
Dianne Wheatley
REFORM, Ala. - Dianne Wheatley, 66, died March 28, 2009, at Pickens County Medical Center. Services are Wednesday at 3 p.m. at Skelton Funeral Home in Reform with the Rev. Mike Hall officiating. Burial will follow at Greenhill Memorial Gardens. Visitation is Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Wheatley was born March 17, 1943, in Kingsville, Texas, to the late Thomas F. and Frances L. Swindell Whalen. She was a member of New Salem Baptist Church, and she was a homemaker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Grady Wheatley Jr.; and sister, Joan F. Snow. She is survived by her daughters, Tonyia Wallace and Sonyia McKinney, both of Gordo, Ala., and Georgette Hodgin of Aliceville, Ala.; stepdaughter, Denise Evans of Reform; stepson, Don Wheatley of Reform; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Dusty and Jerry Wallace, Scott Hodgin, Christine Jones, Jim Mooneyham and Kenny Wayne Cobb.
Verna Leon Atkins
Verna Leon Atkins, 86, of Columbus, Mississippi passed away March 27, 2009, at The Arrington Assisted Living Home. Services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 29, 2009, at Chandler Funeral Home in Vernon, AL, with Brother David Wood officiating. Burial will follow at Furnace Hill Cemetery in Vernon, AL. Visitation will be for two hours prior to services at the funeral home. Mr. Atkins was born October 4, 1922, in Vernon, AL, t | | | |
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