Christine Wozow, a resident of Marianna, Florida and formerly Ashford died Sunday April 24, 2016 at SHC at the Courtyard in Marianna. She was 89.
Graveside services for Mrs. Wozow will be held at 11 AM Wednesday, April 27, 2016 at Ashford City cemetery with Reverend John Smith officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.
Mrs. Wozow was born November 6, 1926 in Houston County to the late Barney J. and Rubie Guy Adams. She was a graduate of Cottonwood High School and attended First Baptist Church Ashford. Mrs. Wozow was a homemaker and caregiver to her late husband, Henry Wozow and her passion was taking care of and helping people. She enjoyed baking and sharing her friendship bread to her friends and family. Mrs. Wozow enjoyed the outdoors and working in her yards and flower beds. She will be remembered as a loving and giving mother, grandmother and great grandmother.
Survivors include her son and daughter in law, Bruce and Carolyn Wozow; grandson, Jacob Wozow; granddaughter and her husband, Cynthia and Andrew Anderson; great granddaughter, Tinlee Wozow and a special friend, Larry Flowers.
James Larry “Booger” Richter, a resident of Blakely, Georgia died Wednesday, April 13, 2016 at his residence. He was 67.
Graveside memorial services will be at Holly Hill cemetery in Port St. Joe, Florida at a later date.
Mr. Richter was born April 20, 1948 to the late Archie McCoy and Lillie Roney Richter in Port St. Joe, Florida. He worked at Georgia Pacific as a Shipping Clerk and retired after 40 years of service.
Mr. Richter is preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Gail Richter.
Survivors include his wife, Mary Barlow Richter; son, Jason McCoy Richter; step children, April Williams and Johnny Williams; five grandchildren, Kayne and Krystal Carpenter, Danielle Williams, Phillip and Grace Williams; great grandson, Blake Cook; and sister Yvonne Rogers.
Reverend Wallace W. Russell, a resident of Dothan, died Monday, April 11, 2016 at Noland Hospital. He was 84.
Funeral services for Reverend Russell will be held at 11 AM Thursday, April 14, 2016 at Bethel Baptist Church with Dr. Ricky Plummer officiating. Burial will follow in Crestlawn Memorial cemetery with Southern Heritage directing. The family will receive friends from 9:30 AM until 10:45 AM prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to; Bethel Baptist Church Missions, 3301 E. Cottonwood Road, Dothan, AL 36301.
Reverend Russell was born February 27, 1932 in Ensley, Alabama to the late Wallace Wales and Jeannetta Whitlow Russell, Sr. He was a 1950 graduate of Ashville High School and graduated from the Baptist College of Florida formerly Baptist Bible Institute (BBI) in 1970. Reverend Russell began as interim pastor of Pleasant Valley Church in Attalla, after being ordained to the Gospel ministry by Steele Baptist Church, Steele. His 42 years of ministry included pastoring the following churches; Pleasant Plains Baptist, Clayton, Pleasant Grove Baptist, Ozark and Carrollton Baptist, Carrollton. In April 11, 1982 he began his final pastorate at Bethel Baptist in Dothan, where he served for 25 years, retiring April 29, 2007. Reverend Russell is regarded as a Godly mentor for young pastors and laymen throughout Alabama. Under his leadership, countless people called into the ministry have been mentored in God’s word and sent out for full service or to further their education in order to serve.
Reverend Russell is preceded in death by his parents, son, Ed Russell and two sisters.
Suvivors include his wife of 65 years, Loretta Russell, Dothan; three daughters, Judy Brooks, Sylacauga, Sally and her husband, Gene Latham, Northport, Barbara and her husband, David Flatt, Panama City, Florida; grandchildren, Scott and Sabrina Knight, Nicole Hassebrock, Matt and Brooke Latham, Brooke Flatt; great grandchildren, Addison and Justis Knight, Ashleigh Latham, Caleb and Hannah Hassebrock; sister Pat and her husband, Joe Wright, Dayton, Ohio.
Lowell Ferguson, a faithful man of God, and resident of Dothan, went to be with the Lord on April 2, 2016. He was 95 years old.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 6, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at Ridgecrest Baptist Church with Reverends Ray Jones and Homer Davis officiating. A graveside service will follow in Memory Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends starting at 12:30 prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ridgecrest Baptist Church Building Fund or the Ridgecrest Baptist Church Mission team.
Mr. Ferguson was born in Carroll County, Mississippi on July 4, 1920. He was the oldest son of the late Turner S. Ferguson and Oma Michie Ferguson.
Lowell was a graduate of JZ George High School in Carrollton, Mississippi, and Benjamin Franklin University in Washington, D.C. Mr. Ferguson was a Veteran of World War II, having served in the 8th Air Force under the command of General Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Lowell married Gwin Brookins of Malone, Florida on July 2, 1949 at National Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. Gwin, the love of his life, passed away on March 19, 2009. Earlier, Lowell and Gwin resided in the Nation’s Capital until 1951 before moving to Lynchburg, Virginia, where they lived for 4 years, then moved to Dothan in 1955. They were active members of Ridgecrest Baptist Church, where Lowell served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and served on several committees. Mr. Ferguson was the founder of Ferguson’s Dixie Advertising in 1962 and retired in 2005. He was a member, and past president of the Kiwanis Club of Houston County and an honorary member of the Chamber of Commerce.
Mr. Ferguson is survived by a son, Gary Ferguson, grandchildren, Cam Ferguson, Mark Ferguson, Jamie Dubose, and Griffin Ferguson; 2 daughters in law Cindy Ferguson, and Lisa Ferguson Fridolfson; great grandchildren, Clarke, Lucie, Ella Ferguson, Cara Mia, and Ava Nicole Dubose; brother Jim (Frances) Ferguson; sister Sunshine Branner; sisters in law Betty Brookins, and Jo Ferguson; many cousins, nieces, and nephews also survive.
Mr. Ferguson was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Gwin; a son Kevin Ferguson; a brother Waynor (Bub) Ferguson; a sister Oma Rose Fox; and a brother in law Joe Brookins.
The Ferguson family would like to give a special thank you to Sonja Kirkland, Barbara Ragland, Chester Davis, the staff of Extendicare, and the many friends, neighbors, and church members who have shown their kindness and support for Mr. Ferguson over the years.
George Ellis Bradshaw, Jr., a resident of Dothan, died Saturday April 2, 2016 at his residence surrounded by family. He was 86.
Graveside services will be held at 11 AM Monday, April 4, 2016 at Harper’s Joy Assembly of God Church cemetery with Rev. Myrus McNab officiating. The family will receive friends from 10 AM until 10:45 AM at the funeral home prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, one may make a contribution to your favorite charity.
Survivors include his wife, Frances Judean “Judy” Bradshaw; two sons, Danny Bradshaw (Joyce), Rodney Ellis Bradshaw (Luci); daughter, Diane Bradshaw; six grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
Kenneth Jasper Deatherage, a resident of Dothan, died Tuesday, March 15, 2016 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center. He was 67.
Memorial services will be held at 3 PM Friday, March 18, 2016 at Wayside Baptist Church with Youth Pastor Erik Varnum officiating. The family will receive friends at the church.
Mr. Deatherage was born June 19, 1948 in Dothan to Virgil H. Deatherage, Sr., and Blondell Scott Deatherage. He graduated from Rehobeth High School and later joined the United States Navy. Mr. Deatherage was a diesel mechanic for many years and enjoyed the outdoors and fishing.
Mr. Deatherage is preceded in death by his mother, Blondell Scott Deatherage, grandparents, Jasper and Tessie Scott.
Survivors include two sons, Kevin and Wendy Deatherage, Cottonwood, Keith Deatherage, Dothan; five grandchildren; two sisters, Anna and Harold Harrison, Bainbridge, GA, Kathy Jones, Dothan; brother, Virgil Deatherage, Jr., Dothan; special brother, Jimmy Foxworth; soulmate, Sondra Varnum and her two sons, Erik and Sean Varnum and families; special nephew, Bobby Jennings, Jr. and many more loving nieces and nephews; special canine companion, Bitsi.
Donald Ray Matthews, a resident of Ozark, died Wednesday, March 9, 2016 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center. He was 66.
Memorial services will be held at a later date.
Mr. Matthews was born September 13, 1949 to Hosea and Eleanor Dawkins Matthews. Following high school in Ozark, he joined the United States Army and served his country during two tours of Vietnam. Mr. Matthews later owned and operated Southern Cycle Supply in Dothan and was a founding member of Freespirit Bikers Club.
Survivors include two daughters, Jennifer Obiorah and her husband, Ifeanyi, Raena Matthews; son, Aaren Matthews; two grandsons, David Brown and Orlando R. Laster.
Mabel H. Sellers, a resident of Dothan and formerly Bainbridge, Georgia died Saturday, March 5, 2016 at her residence. She was 83.
Graveside services for Mrs. Sellers will be held at 3 PM Monday, March 7, 2016 at Memory Hill cemetery with Dr. Joseph Johnson officiating. The family will receive friends from 4 PM until 6 PM Sunday, March 6, 2016 at Evergreen Presbyterian Church, 1103 N. Pontiac, Dothan, AL 36303. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Resource Center, PO Box 1170, Dothan, AL 36302.
The daughter of the late Jay Alexander and Lucile Cohron Hodges. Mabel Sellers is a Dothan native and married E.J. (Jerry) Sellers. Mabel and Jerry moved to Bainbridge, Georgia in 1967 where they started an oil company franchise with Amoco through the year 2000. After retirement they settled back in Dothan to be near family. Mabel was active with the Bainbridge Little Theater, American Cancer Society and a member of the First Presbyterian Church and choir. Aside from living part time in Destin, Florida Mabel and Jerry travelled the world together and have woven a rich tapestry of memory and meaning into many people’s lives, hearts and minds. Loved shared and lessons taught by intent, accident and happenstance.
Mrs. Sellers is preceded in death by her sister, Ellen Childs, three brothers, Fred Hodges, Glen Hodges and Bruce Hodges.
Survivors include her husband, of 50 years, E J Sellers, two daughters, Ellen Dawson and Julia Elizabeth Buntin; two sons, TE Buntin III and John Alexander Sellers; eight grandchildren and a great granddaughter adorable nieces and nephews and two sisters in law, Votie Hodges and Sydney Hodges.
Carolyn Chandler, a resident of Cottonwood, died Saturday March 5, 2016 at her residence. She was 89.
Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Monday, March 7, 2016 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Brother Steve Hammond officiating. Burial will follow in Crestlawn Memorial cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
Carolyn was born July 27, 1926 in Mississippi to the late Brasil and Hattie Wortham and spent her early life there. She then moved to Plant city, Florida and later moved to Cottonwood in 1991 where she lived the remainder of her life.
Carolyn is preceded in death by her parents, two husbands, Ebbie Moore and Charlie Chandler; daughter, Dora Moore; five brothers and two sisters.
Carolyn is survived by thirteen children; Linda Melton, Jimmie Moore and Linda, Chester Moore and Gladys, Nettie Townsell and Lloyd, Melba Chandler and Eugene, Gloria Cunningham, Ronald Moore, Elaine Chandler and Bobby, Wayne Moore and Debbie, Angie Cunningham, Charles Chandler and Penny, Donna Nelson and Larry, Patricia Hancock and Danny; 43 grandchildren, 80 great-grandchildren and 13 great great grandchildren.
Nola Elmore Whitehead, a resident of Cottonwood, died Thursday March 3, 2016 at her residence. She was 90.
Funeral services for Mrs. Whitehead will be held at 2:30 PM Sunday, March 6, 2016 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Dr. Ricky Plummer and Reverend John Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Enon Church of Christ cemetery with Southern Heritage directing. The family will receive friends from 1:30 PM until 2:15 PM prior to the services at the funeral home.
Mrs. Whitehead was born January 25, 1926 in Houston County to the late Glen and Doxie Cutchins Elmore. She was a seamstress at Wex-Tex for many years and had a love for quilting. Mrs. Whitehead was a dedicated, loving and hard working mother who enjoyed working in her yards and fishing. She was a member at Enon Church of Christ.
Mrs. Whitehead is preceded in death by her husband, Crosher L. Whitehead; grandson, Michael Whitehead; three sisters and a brother.
Survivors include two daughters and a son in law, Myrl McCord, Cottonwood, Qualeen and Jack Grace, St. Joseph, LA; two sons and daughters in law, Will and Kathy Whitehead, Artis and Diane Whitehead, all of Cottonwood; grandchildren, Jeffrey and Lindsay McCord, Dennis and Natalie McCord, Paul and Lisa Grace, Kevin and Nicole Grace, Travis Grace, Nick Whitehead, Christie and Lance Junkin, Shaylee and Randy Meadows, Celena and Robbie Morris, Anna and Keith Turner, Katherine Whitehead and Ben Whitehead; several great grandchildren; two brothers, Kenny Gene Elmore, Ladon and Judith Elmore; three sisters, Doris Granger, Thedus and Tommy Womack and Bobie Ann Croom.
Joe C. Graddy, a resident of Cottonwood, died Tuesday, March 1, 2016 at his residence. He was 79.
Graveside services will be held at 2 PM Friday, March 4, 2016 at Cottonwood City cemetery with Reverends Stan Sullivan and John Smith officiating. The family will receive friends Thursday, March 3, 2016 from 5 PM until 7 PM at the funeral home. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to Covenant Hospice, 104 Rockbridge Road, Dothan, AL 36303.
Mr. Graddy was born June 28, 1936 in Headland, Alabama to the late William Haywood and Cynthia Campbell Graddy. He was a graduate of Headland High School and later joined the United States Army where he was stationed in Germany. Mr. Graddy was a business man who was involved in several ventures before he started raising cattle. His passion for Texas Longhorn cattle was evident in the many awards he won for cattle breeding. He was also the Southeast Director of the Texas Longhorn Breeders Association.
Mr. Graddy is preceded in death by his parents, wife, Barbara Lewis Graddy and a brother, Billy Graddy.
Survivors include his son, James Graddy; daughter and son in law, Carolyn and Bruce Wozow; grandson, Jacob Wozow; granddaughter and her husband, Cynthia and Andrew Anderson; great granddaughter, Tinlee Wozow; three sisters, Julia White, Nell Johnson, Elizabeth White and several nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to thank Mr. Graddy’s caregivers, Mrs. Lillian Deese, Joe and Katrina Mathews and Jodi Grayson. A special thank you to Covenant Hospice, Lynn, Cynthia, Dr. Nichols and Sarah.
Jeanette Hollingsworth, a resident of Pansey, died Saturday, February 27, 2016 at her residence. She was 86.
Funeral services for Mrs. Hollingsworth will be held at 2 PM Monday, February 29, 2016 at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church with Rev. Jackie Smith officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends beginning at 1 PM at the church.
Mrs. Hollingsworth “Granny” was a devoted mother and grandmother and loved by all in her community. She will be remembered for her delicious pound cakes, brownies and banana nut bread.
Mrs. Hollingsworth is preceded in death by her parents, Charlie D. and Alice Locke Batson; husband, Walter M. Hollingsworth; three brothers, Robert, James and Charles Batson; sister, Pearline Tye.
Survivors include three sons, John and Shalene Jordan, Gordon, Randall and Lisa Hollingsworth, Pansey, Scott and Alayne Hollingsworth, Stanley, NC; two daughters, Joan and Lanny Trawick, Judy Jordan Rodrigues, both of Pansey; nine grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; three sisters, Beatrice Corbin, Geraldine Headly and Doris Pierce.
Shirley Benzel, a resident of Dothan, passed away Monday, February 22, 2016 at Henry County Rehab & Nursing Center. She was 79.
A memorial service will be held at Ft. Mitchell National cemetery at a later date.
Mrs. Benzel was preceded in death by her husband, Leroy Benzel.
Survivors include children, Kenny (Lisa), Jeff (Kathy), Cindy (Scott); grandchildren, Erica (Larry), William (BJ), Kaitlin (Eddie), Nicholas, Ryan and Katie; great grandchildren, Jake, Austin, Riley, Kellan, Kinley and Colton.
James Hollis Rodgers, a resident of Cottonwood, died Sunday, February 21, 2016 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center. He was 75.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, February 23, 2016 from 5 PM until 7 PM at Southern Heritage Funeral Home. Cremation will follow visitation and no other services will be held.
Vinal Linwood Richardson, a resident of Dothan, died Wednesday, February 17, 2016 at Noland Hospital. He was 71.
Memorial services for Mr. Richardson will be held at 10 AM Saturday, February 20, 2016 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.
Mr. Richardson is survived by a son and daughter in law, Dale and Angel Reynolds, Richmond, Virginia; granddaughter, Brittney Reynolds; special friends, Catherine Burrier and Brenda Simms, both of Dothan along with many extended family.
Barbara Jeanell Mercer Buntin of Cottonwood went to be with her Lord at her home Monday evening, February 15, 2016.
For the last 25 years, she shared her love for children through service as a kindergarten teacher at Cottonwood High School and retired September 1, 2015 due to illness.
Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 17, 2016 at Cottonwood First Baptist Church. Visitation will be at 10:00 a.m. in the church sanctuary that morning. Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to First Choice Hospice, 996 Claxton Avenue N., Elba, AL 36323.
Mrs. Buntin was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Lee and Mary Myrtle Middlebrooks Mercer, brother and sister-in-law, David Morris and Brenda Mercer, her sister and brothers-in-law, Mary Jeanette Mercer Brown Ferguson, Melvin Brown and Sanford Ferguson, brother-in-law, Don Buntin, and sister-in-law and her husband Dorothy and Aris Mixson.
Survivors include her husband, Rex H. Buntin of Cottonwood, sister, Peggy Jo Mercer Miller Reeves (Doyle) of Cottondale, brother, James Allen Mercer (Diana) of Missouri and Panama City, FL, and sister-in-law, Myra Buntin Watford of Cottonwood, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.
Henry Franklin Adams, a resident of Cottonwood, died Tuesday, February 2, 2016 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center. He was 61.
Funeral services for Mr. Adams will be held at 3 PM Saturday, February 6, 2016 at Calvary Baptist church in Cottonwood with Brother John Smith officiating. The family will receive friends from 5 PM until 7 PM Friday evening at the funeral home. Burial will follow in the Mt. of Olives cemetery in Cottonwood.
Mr. Adams was born in Donalsonville, Georgia January 19, 1955 to the late Herbert Cleveland and Betty Jean Tindell Adams. He was raised in Cottonwood and at an early age moved to Eastpoint, Florida where he began a career as a shrimper in the seafood industry. Mr. Adams loved to hunt and enjoyed gaming chickens.
Mr. Adams is preceded in death by his parents and a step grandson, Brent Sheffield.
Survivors include a step daughter, Sharon and Buck Sheffield, Statesboro, GA; two step grandchildren; two sisters, Charlotte McCall and Brenda Sanders, both of Cottonwood; two brothers, Cleveland Adams, Dothan and George and Bonnie Adams, Cottonwood.
Alice Taylor Collins, of Dothan, passed away Monday, February 1, 2016, at her residence.
Memorial services for Alice will be held at 1 PM Saturday, February 6, 2016, at Southern Heritage with Reverend Scott Cox officiating. The family will receive friends there immediately following the service. A Celebration of Life will be held at 4 PM on Saturday at her home. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to The ALS Association Alabama Chapter, PO Box 2888, Huntsville, AL 35804.
Full obituary to follow.
Warren O. Abraham, 90, a resident of Dothan and formerly of Crestview, Florida passed into Glory on Thursday, January 28, 2016.
Born on 28 August 1925 in Clifton, New Jersey, he was a loving and dedicated father, husband, and friend. His life was full, and his joy of and zest for life were contagious. He moved to Dothan in 2010 and made many new friends—he was most likely found at Church, the Rose Hill Senior Center, or at one of the many local eating establishments! In 2012 he realized his need for our Lord and gave his life to Jesus at the age of 87.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years Margaret Abraham, and his sisters Alice Danielson and Claire Weppler. He is survived by his son Warren Abraham (Becky), his daughter and grandson Peggy and Rich Moore, his son David Bruce Abraham, nieces Marlene Cross, Jan Cronin, and Wynelle Kinne.
A celebration of his life will be held at Memphis Baptist Church, 4595 Eddins Road, Dothan, AL on Thursday, February 4, 2016 at 6:30 P.M. with Reverend Jim Tate officiating. A reception will be held in the Fellowship Hall immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Memphis Baptist Church care of children and youth ministry, 4595 Eddins Road, Dothan, AL.
Southern Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Virgil Charles “Chick” Middlebrooks, a resident of Dothan, died Tuesday January 26, 2016 at Signature Healthcare of North Florida in Graceville. He was 81.
Funeral services for Mr. Middlebrooks will be held at 11 AM Thursday, January 28, 2016 at Ridgecrest Baptist Church with Pastor Cobie Tomlinson officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. on Thursday, January 28, 2016 at the church. Graveside services will be held Friday January 29, 2016 at Double Run Baptist Church in Pitts, Georgia at 1 PM (EST). In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ridgecrest Baptist Church Building Fund, 1207 Fortner Street, Dothan, AL 36301.
Mr. Middlebrooks was born August 25, 1934 in Vienna, Georgia to the late Calvin Alfred and Annie Mae Ward Middlebrooks. He moved to Cordele, Georgia at an early age and was a 1952 graduate of Cordele High School. Following high school, he began a career in the grocery business as a meat cutter. Mr. Middlebrooks moved to Dothan in 1973 and began working for Mack Electric and retired as the Warehouse Manager. He was a member of Ridgecrest Baptist where he served as a deacon. He was involved with Dothan High School for many years as the clock operator for football and basketball. Mr. Middlebrooks had a love for sports and enjoyed playing golf, tennis and bowling.
Mr. Middlebrooks is preceded in death by his parents, sister, Annie Middlebrooks; two brothers, Benny and Nathan Middlebrooks.
Survivors include his wife, Lynn Middlebrooks, Dothan; daughter, Karen Lynn, Dothan; two sons, Keith Middlebrooks, Webb, Kerry Middlebrooks, Dothan; four grandchildren, Ashley, Ayron, Jase and Jessie; great grandchildren, Isaac and Matthew; brother, Johnny and Gordene Middlebrooks.
Jeff Shepard, 57, died unexpectedly on January 11, 2016 at the Southeast Alabama Medical Center. He was 57.
The celebration of Jeff’s life will be held at 3 p.m. on January 13, 2016 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Rev. William E. Bridges officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the chapel at the Southern Heritage Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Wiregrass Area Food Bank, 382 Twitchell Road, Dothan, AL 36303, Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Drive, Dothan, AL 36303 or Wiregrass Humane Society, 255 Jerry Drive, Dothan, AL 36303.
Jeff grew up in Hartford, Alabama, and was a graduate of Geneva County High School and Troy University. He was employed at Southeast Alabama Medical Center for 25 years serving in several capacities including lab manager. Jeff was an avid University of Alabama fan, and he loved photography and was a skilled photographer. He always planned and enjoyed his and Sheri’s annual fall vacations. More than anything, he was a kind and good man who always saw the best in everyone.
Jeff was predeceased by his parents, William E. and Hilda Sorrells Shepard of Hartford.
Jeff is survived by his wife of 32 years, Sheri W. Shepard; sister, Angie S. Anciso (Angel), of Dothan; three nieces and nephews; sister-in-law, Patti Woodham, of Panama City, FL and his beloved pet, Peyton.
Joseph Locascio, 83, of Graceville, Florida, passed away Tuesday, December 29, 2015 at Campbellton-Graceville Hospital.
Memorial services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, January 1, 2016 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Father Patrick Gallagher officiating and Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home Friday, January 1, 2016 immediately following the memorial service.
Mr. Locascio worked for the New York City Transit Authority as a Bus Driver for nineteen years prior to his retirement and he served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was of the Catholic Faith.
Howard Michael Warren, a resident of Dothan and formerly Montgomery died Wednesday, December 23, 2015 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center. He was 63.
Memorial services will be announced at a later date.
Mr. Warren was born August 22, 1952 in Montgomery, Alabama to Oslar Dewitt and Bobbie Jean Howard Warren. He moved to Little Rock, Arkansas at an early age and graduated from Hall High School. Mr. Warren later moved back to Montgomery and graduated from Auburn University at Montgomery. He worked for Warren Wholesale Company and later AAA Cooper in Birmingham. Mr. Warren was an avid golfer and was very good at it.
Survivors include his parents, O.D. and Bobbie Warren; three sons, Michael and Jennifer Warren, Ryan and Angie Warren, W.D. Warren; daughter, Courtney Scarbrough and Brandon Yost; grandchildren, Clara, David, Witt, Trent, Lexan and Joseph; brothers, James and Dixie Warren, Robert and Donna Warren.
Olin “Billy” Carroll, 79, husband of Jane Williams Carroll, of Dothan, Alabama passed away Thursday, December 17, 2015 at his residence surrounded by his loving family.
Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, December 21, 2015 at Cross Roads Baptist Church with Reverend Doug McCormick and Reverend Josh McCormick officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the Memorial service at the family residence.
Born in Kingstree, South Carolina, Billy was the son of the late James and Ruby Bowles Carroll. He worked as a pipe fitter with Local Union 52, Montgomery, Alabama and attended Cross Roads Baptist Church.
Surviving in addition to his wife are a son, Melvin Carroll, Dothan, AL; four daughters, Kathy Collella, Dothan, AL, Sandy McConnell, Madian, NC, Kimberly Price, Dothan, AL, Nicole Lasseter, Dothan, AL; a brother, Kenneth Carroll, Lorain, Ohio; a sister, Patricia Hughes. Florence, SC; four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Catherine Louise Roberts Richardson, a resident of Dothan, died Sunday, December 13, 2015 at her residence. She was 84.
Graveside services for Mrs. Richardson will be held at 11 AM Friday December 18, 2015 at Memphis Baptist Church cemetery with Reverend Rick Glenn officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 PM until 8 PM Thursday December 17, 2015 at the funeral home.
Mrs. Richardson was born October 25, 1931 in Dothan, Alabama to the late Marion B. and Wyline Roberts. At an early age she moved with her family to Miami, Florida and later to Orlando. She worked as a bookkeeper for the Orange County School Board where she later retired. After retirement she and her husband moved back to Dothan where she volunteered at the front desk for Southeast Alabama Medical Center for 20 years. Mrs. Richardson won the Winning Spirit of Women’s Award for her time spent at the Medical Center and was a member of Memphis Baptist Church.
Mrs. Richardson is preceded in death by her husband, James A. Richardson.
Survivors include; three daughters, Susan Richardson, Dothan, Tricia Mosser and her husband, Dwayne, Kerrville, Texas, Ellene Kerrie Richardson, Orlando, Florida; four grandchildren, Ashley Louise Clark, Clint Womack and his wife, Kerilyn, Nicholas Mosser, Alexandra Mosser; great grandchild, Lucas, Hayven, Jonah, Laurel and Tatum; sister, Peggy Beaman and her husband, Dave, Ashville NC; brother, Fred M. Roberts, South Carolina.
Don Allen Wiggins, a resident of Dothan, died Saturday, December 12, 2015 at his residence after a tough battle with cancer surrounded by his family. He was 76.
Graveside services for Mr. Wiggins will be held at 12:30 PM Tuesday, December 15, 2015 at Cedar Springs Baptist Church cemetery with Brother Ray Cobb officiating. The family will receive friends from 10 AM until Noon prior to the services at the funeral home.
Mr. Wiggins was born in Ashford, AL on April 8, 1939 to the late Ernest and Beatrice Davis Wiggins. He was a 1957 graduate of Houston County High School. Mr. Wiggins was a route salesman for Colonial Baking Company and following his retirement he owned and operated Kwik Food Store in Ardilla. He was an avid gardener who enjoyed growing vegetables, Alabama football and fishing.
Mr. Wiggins is preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Mark Wiggins.
Survivors include two daughters, Stacy Ellen Mounce and her husband, Steve, Haley Wiggins; son, Tracy Allen Wiggins; grandchildren, Samuel Parker Mounce and Sarah Beth Mounce; sister, Irma Ruth Parker and her husband, Joe, beloved poodle, Bambo.
The family wishes to thank, Wendy Kirkland, Josephine Shipes, Rachael Tate, Lynda Campbell and Doug Jacobs for their care and support of Mr. Wiggins.
Our precious Mother, Edna Ruth Sewell McCallister, 89, entered her eternal home on Tuesday, December 8, 2015 at Extendicare in Dothan, Alabama.
She was a selfless, loving and dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great- great grandmother. She was the epitome of Proverbs 31:28 “Her children arise up and call her blessed; her husband also and he praiseth her”.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 11, 2015 at Bethel Baptist Church with Reverend Dr. Ricky Plummer officiating. Her grandson, Casey Williamson will be delivering the family’s celebration of her life. Burial will follow in the Mt. Pleasant Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until service time on Friday at Bethel Baptist Church and at other times at the family residence.
Born in Geneva County, Alabama, near Graceville, Florida on May 9, 1926, Ruth was a daughter of the late Lonnie Mon and Minnie Baxley Sewell. She was a homemaker while caring for many of her grandchildren. She was also employed by Dairy Fresh as a lab technician for twelve years. She was a member of Bethel Baptist Church where she served faithfully as a children’s Sunday School Teacher, VBS worker, WMU member and encourager to everyone fortunate enough to know her. She loved her Sunday School Class, Welcome Class, and her sweet friends. She was gifted in writing cards and notes of encouragement to family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband of seventy years, Howard Shelton McCallister.
Surviving is a son and daughter-in-law, Lawrence (Mona) McCallister; four daughters and sons-in-law, Sue (Wayne) Hodges, Savannah, Georgia, Janie (Richard) Williamson, Donna (Kent) Skinner, Sandy (Joey) Arroyo; sisters –in-law, Earline Efurd, Dothan, AL, and Dot Womack, Ashford, AL; thirteen grandchildren; Charese Schmetz, Wynne Hodges, Casey Williamson, Colby Williamson, Caleb Williamson, Chris McCallister, Anthony McCallister, Kala Friedrich, Keesha Tyler, Kole Skinner, Hannah Bruner, Seth Arroyo, Shelton Arroyo; twenty- six great grandchildren; one great- great grandchild.
Flowers are accepted or memorial contributions may be made to the Bethel Baptist Church Building Fund- Create a Legacy, 3257 S. Cottonwood Road, Dothan, Alabama 36301.
LaJean Lott Delk Powell passed away on December 6 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center in Dothan, Alabama. She was surrounded by her loving family and friends.
LaJean was born on June 26, 1955 in Valdosta, Georgia. As part of an US AirForce family, she lived all over the world, including Germany and Japan. Her parents, who preceded her in death, are Bonnie and Gene Lott of Donalsonville, Georgia. She leaves behind three loving siblings: Sheila Cronin (Butch) of Bainbridge, Terry Joiner (Tommy), and Eric Lott (Jeanne) of Donalsonville.
LaJean married Roy Delk in July 1971, and they made a life together in Seminole County, GA, which included five children: David Delk (Pamela), Joe Delk (Heather), Bonnie Williams (Russ), Sarah Gilbert (Jason), and Jenny Whitaker (Terry). Tragically, Roy preceded her in death in 1989.
In August 1991, LaJean married Kevin Powell of Dothan. She considered Kevin’s children her own: Marty Powell (Brittany) and Jessica Harry (Adam). She and Kevin lived happily in Dothan for the past 24 years. LaJean loved the outdoors; she enjoyed gardening and fishing.
Sixteen beloved grandchildren mourn the loss of their Nana LaJean: Haylee Givens, Myra and Kalon Delk, Megan Jones and Ashley Roberts, Chason and Cal Williams, Katelyn and Emily Delk, Allison Parker, Emma Delk and Ella Gilbert, Jack and Max Whitaker, Kinsey Powell, and Kyla Harry.
LaJean was a beloved member of the Georgia Pacific Cedar Springs Operations family for 17 years. She leaves behind many loyal friends there.
Funeral services are being handled by Southern Heritage Funeral Home in Dothan. Visitation will be at 2:00 pm (CST), followed by a memorial service at 3:00 pm (CST) on Wednesday, December 9, 2015.
David E. Johnson, a resident of Cottonwood, died Friday, December 4, 2015 at Flowers Hospital. He was 68.
Funeral services for Mr. Johnson will be held at 11 AM Monday, December 7, 2015 at Howard Grove Freewill Baptist Church with Brother S.E. Newberry officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.
Mr. Johnson was born February 13, 1947 in Houston County to the late Hugha and Lois Miller Johnson. He was a master craftsman having been in the homebuilding industry for several years and later retiring from Southern Lumber. Mr. Johnson was currently the owner/operator of Back Home Tree Farm. He was a member of Howard Grove Freewill Baptist where he served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher.
Survivors include his wife, Mary Johnson, Cottonwood; two sons, Craig and Jennifer Johnson, Mt. Pleasant, SC, Corey and Meg Johnson, Cottonwood; grandchildren, Joshua, Matthew, Faith Ann and Breanna.
James Edward Beall, a resident of Slocomb, died Thursday, December 3, 2015 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center. He was 71.
Services for Mr. Beall will be held at 11AM Saturday, December 5, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Dr. John Thomas officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
Mr. Beall is preceded in death by two brothers, Billy Bell and Johnny Bell, sister, Geneary Bell.
Mr. Beall is survived by his wife, Virginia Beall, Slocomb; three sons, Jay Beall (Barb), Michigan, Gene Beall, Midland City, Devon D’Agosta, Florida; four granddaughters, Andrea, Madison, Cierra and Theresa; brother, Johnny Bell; three sisters, Tommie Lou Byrd, Judy Johnson and Lucy McCain.
Pamela Long, 62, of Dothan, Alabama, passed away Wednesday, November 25, 2015 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center.
Memorial services will be held 2:30 p.m. Sunday, November 29, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Reverend Charlie Campbell officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home prior to the services.
Born in Houston County, Alabama, Pamela was a daughter of the late Raymond Long and Maxine White Cain. She was a 1971 graduate of Dothan High School and worked as a Bookkeeper with Jeffers Veterinary Supply Company for the past ten years. She was of the Baptist faith.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Billy Ray Long and Larry Long and special friend, Genene Offet.
Surviving are a son, Keith Michael Bright, Dothan, Alabama: two sisters, Delores Posey, Ashford, Alabama, and Suzi Pybus, Niceville, Florida; three grandchildren, Jace Bright, Josh Mabry, and Shelby Daniels; several nieces and nephews; aunt & uncle, Margaret & Ray Carter; sister-in-law, Kathy Long; special friends, Joel Offet, and her Jeffers work family, along with her favorite pet, Ruby.
Reverend Charles L. Varnum, 79, formerly of Dothan, Alabama, widower of Sarah McCallister Varnum, passed away Saturday, November 21, 2015 at Signature Health of North Florida in Graceville, Florida.
Graveside services will be held at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 25, 2015 at Harper’s Joy Assembly of God Cemetery. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with Reverend Erik Varnum officiating and Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing.
The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home prior to the services.
Born in Dothan, Alabama, Charles is the son of the late Leonard J. and Eunice Bradshaw Varnum. He was an ordained minister of the Assemblies of God Church for thirty seven years prior to his retirement.
Surviving are a daughter, Marsheila Stark; a brother, Larry Varnum; three sisters, Glenda Lewis, Shirley Cureton, and Deloris Davidson; six grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.
Steven “Cowboy” Reed, 56, died Wednesday, November 18, 2015 in Alachua County, Florida from injuries he received in a traffic accident.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 21, 2015 at Dothan Country Fellowship Church with Reverend Fred Bacher officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the church.
Flowers are accepted or memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Resource Center, 1314 Westgate Parkway Suite 2, Dothan, Alabama 36303.
Born in Stuttgart, Germany, Cowboy is the son of Winnie J. Simpson Reed, and the late Edmund S. Reed. He was a professional truck driver with Max Hughes Trucking Company and attended Dothan Country Fellowship Church and the First Baptist Church of Dothan, Alabama.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Kathy Holtcamp Reed, Dothan, AL; a son, Joshua Reed, Hersey, PA; three step-sons, Greg Vest, Pineville, LA, Eric Vest, Jeffersonville, IN, James Vest, Anderson, SC; two step daughters, Elizabeth Herbert, South Haven, MI; Allison Sweeney, Hebron, KY; a brother, David Reed, Wetumpka, AL; a sister, Terri Phillips, Dothan, AL; three grandchildren, Corbett Vest, Emma Vest and Hoax Vest.
Mr. Donald Kenneth Lovelady, of Dothan, passed away peacefully Tuesday, November 17, 2015 at his residence. He was 77.
Private family memorial services will be held at a later date.
Mr. Lovelady was born March 25, 1938 in Cullman, Alabama to the late Luther Nix and Lucy Guthrie Lovelady.
Mr. Lovelady is preceded in death by a sister, Nickie Brockway and brother, James Ralph Lovelady.
Survivors include his wife, Sally Lovelady; son, Christopher and wife, Debi Lovelady; daughters, Rebekah Lovelady, Daphne Lee Medina-Hicks and husband, Doug Hicks; eight grandchildren, Lacy Berry and husband, Stephen, William Sellers, III, Ethan Sellers, Chelsea Marie Lovelady, Madelynn Rose Lovelady, Ginger Lee Lovelady, Isabella Medina, April Pippin and husband, Colt; five great grandchildren.
Helen Guthrie Watson, 90, of Dothan, Alabama, passed away Tuesday, November 17, 2015 at Wesley Manor.
Services are being planned for a later date.
Ricky Ray Cox, 56, a resident of Webb, Alabama, passed away Friday, November 6, 2015 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center.
Mr. Cox retired from the Houston County School System after twenty six years of faithful service as Custodian of the County Schools and ended his career at Cottonwood High School. He was a deacon and faithful member of First Free Will Baptist Church. Mr. Cox graduated from Headland High School and attended Free Will Baptist Bible College in Nashville, Tennessee.
Mr. Cox is preceded in death by his father, Benjamin Rudolph Cox; his grandmother, Clinoria Woodham; his grandfather, Tom Woodham his sister-in-law, Kathy Voorheis; his mother-in-law, Marian Voorheis; his father-in-law, John Voorheis; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.
Mr. Cox is survived by his wife of thirty four years, Patty Cox; his son Jason (Emily) Cox, two grandchildren, Henry Cox and Hudson Lassiter; his mother, Geraldine (Bill) Boyd; his brother, Ira Cox; and a host of friends and extended family members.
Funeral services will be held in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage Funeral Home at 3:00 pm on Monday, November 9, 2015 with Pastors Steve Trail and Jeffrey Pettis presiding. Burial will follow in Crestlawn Cemetery in Cowarts, Alabama. The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm on Monday, prior to the services.
Pallbearers will be Vince Vickery, Johnny Waters, Zephan Vickery, David Parrish, Bobby Jackson, Carl Floyd, and Robert Benefield. Honorary Pallbearers will be Bobby Stone and Eugene Weed.
Flowers are accepted or donations may be made to First Free Will Baptist Church Building Fund, 1461 Timbers Drive Dothan, Alabama 36301.
Barbara Ann Holley, a resident of Webb, died Wednesday, November 4, 2015 at her residence. She was 62.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 7, 2015 in Clearman Chapel of Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Pastor Kenneth Putnam officiating. Burial will follow in Memory Hill Cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Saturday prior to the services.
Born in Arab, Alabama, she was the daughter of Mertie Edwards and the late Leo Frank Edwards. She worked with Woodmen of the World Insurance, Coleman American Moving Service, Maxines Office Supply and taught at KinderCare Day Care prior to her retirement. She enjoyed bowling, taking care of her special dogs, spending time at the lake and caring for her family and she was a member of Denton Road United Methodist Church.
Mrs. Holley is preceded in death by her father, Leo Frank Edwards and a son, Chris Holley.
Mrs. Holley is survived by her husband, Steve Holley; two daughters, Wendy Hicks (Ashley), Crystal Holley; grandchildren, Bryson Hicks and Molly Grace Hicks; mother, Mertie Edwards; two sisters, , Martha Raley and Margaret Edwards; brother, Frankie Edwards.
George Mason “Rusty” Guilford, III, a resident of Dothan, died Tuesday, November 3, 2015 at Flowers Hospital. He was 54.
Memorial services for Rusty will be held at 3 PM Friday, November 6, 2015 at Ridgecrest Baptist Church with Reverend Jonathan Blair and Reverend Bruce Spivey officiating. The family will receive friends from 2 PM until 2:45 PM prior to the service and immediately following the service.
Rusty was born December 4, 1960 to the late George Mason and Jo Frances Palmer Guilford, Jr. He was a 1979 graduate of Geneva County High School and attended Livingston University. Rusty was an outside salesman in building supplies for many years and was an avid Alabama Crimson Tide fan, enjoyed fishing and cooking. He attended Ridgecrest Baptist and was a member of Johnny Oppert’s Sunday School class.
Survivors include his wife, Mary Douglas Seay Guilford, Dothan; son, Mason Douglas Guilford, Dothan; two daughters, Hanna B. Guilford Mills (Steven), Cottonwood, Hailey Jo Guilford, Wicksburg; three grandchildren, Dallas Payne Hale, Serenity Jo Taylor, Mackinzie Mills; sister, Melissa Justice (Kip), Hartford; sister in law, Linda Odom (Randy), Columbia; nephews, Zach, Noah, Seth Justice and Chris Odom; niece, Jennifer Odom, several aunts, uncles and cousins.
Carleene Hughes, a resident of Dothan, passed away Monday, November 2, 2015 at her home after an extended battle with cancer. She was 81.
Funeral services for Mrs. Hughes will be held at 2 PM Thursday, November 5, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Reverend Rick Glenn and Reverend Billy Rich officiating. Burial will follow in Memphis Baptist Church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1PM until 1:45 PM prior to the service.
Mrs. Hughes was born February 4, 1934 in Henry County, Alabama to the late Marvin G. and Elmer Blackmon Holmes. She was a 1952 graduate of Cottonwood High School. Mrs. Hughes married J.L. Hughes on November 3, 1956 and they resided in Auburndale, Florida for many years before returning to Dothan in 1997. She was an active member of Memphis Baptist Church.
Mrs. Hughes is preceded in death by her parents, step-mother, Minnie Bell Hooper Holmes, brother, Marvette Holmes and a sister, Geraldine Holmes Sallas.
Survivors include her husband, J.L. Hughes; daughter, Rhonda Jill Jowers; granddaughter, Christina Jones (Michael); great grandchildren, Michael Ashton Jones and Addyson Jones; two sisters, Patsy Hooper, Betty Joyce Gunter; brother, Eddie Carl Holmes (Era Jo) and an uncle, Wilton Blackmon.
Mary Catherine Brown, a resident of Dothan, died Thursday, October 29, 2015 at her home. She was 83.
Funeral services for Ms. Brown will be held at 2 PM Sunday, November 1, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Pastor George Bogart officiating. Burial will follow in Ashford City cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1 PM until 1:45 PM prior to the services.
Ms. Brown was born July 29, 1932 in Houston County to the late Marshall and Mandy Sims Bruner. She was a loving mother and caregiver who loved to cook and loved taking care of her family. She was a member of New Direction Church.
Ms. Brown is preceded in death by a son, William Brown and a daughter, Mary Janet Brown.
Survivors include four sons, Raymond Brown (Joyce), Midland City, Larry Brown, Tuskegee, Michael Brown, Englewood, FL, Robert Brown (Lynn), Dothan; two daughters, Carlene Starling (Roger), Avon, Emma Rodgers, Louisiana; 21 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren.
The family wishes to thank Jacob Brown, Samantha Brown and her fiancé, Ronnie Higgins and Juanita Metcalf for their love and care of Ms. Brown.
Verbie Benton, 90, formerly of Ashford, Alabama, passed away Saturday, October 24, 2015 at Community Health and Rehabilitation Center in Panama City, Florida.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 27, 2015 at Pleasant Plains Baptist Church with Pastors Mike Parker and Jason Parker officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Tuesday at the church prior to the services.
Serving as active pallbearers will be Brian Waters, Eric Jones, Steven Jones, Camden Baker, Nathan Willis and David Willis.Born in Houston County, Alabama, Verbie was the daughter of the late J.J. and Candice Sewell Watkins. She was a precious wife, mother and grandmother. She cooked and served the meals for Wednesday night suppers, and was a beloved children’s Sunday school teacher, and faithful member of Pleasant Plains Baptist Church.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, R.C. Benton; a son, Ronald Coleman; two brothers, Ray Sewell and William M. Watkins.
Surviving are two daughters and sons-in-law, Sylvia (Mike) Parker, Panama City, FL and Wanda (Tommy) Waters, Madison, AL; five grandchildren, Tina Willis, Angie Baker, Lori Jones, Brian Waters and Jason Parker; nine great-grandchildren, Steven Jones, Eric Jones, David Willis, Nathan Willis, Kenton Baker, Camden Baker, Alyssa Baker, Lexi Parker and Jeremy Parker.
Joseph Carl “Joe” Robinson went home to be with his Heavenly Father on Tuesday, October 20, 2015, surrounded by his loving family after a long battle with cancer. He was 63.
Memorial services for Joe will be held at 11 AM Saturday, October 24, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Reverend Clint Adams and Reverend Kevin Freeman officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 AM prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wiregrass Humane Society, PO Box 1045, Dothan, AL 36302.
Joe was born in Columbus, Georgia September 8, 1952, the son of the late Fred Lawrence and Julia “Judy” Robinson. He was raised in Opelika and was a 1977 graduate of Beauregard High School. Following high school he graduated from john Patterson College with a degree as an Electrician and was a member of IBEW Local 443 for 40 years. Everyone who knew Joe loved him and also knew that he loved and lived life to the fullest and was so happy all of the time. Joe had a passion for rebuilding and restoring cars and he loved flying as well. He completed his first solo flight from the Headland Airport on April 10, 1994 in a Cessna 150. Joe was also an avid Auburn Tigers Football fan. He will always be remembered for his zest for life and his very humorous, yet compassionate personality.
Survivors include his wife, Brenda Jean Robinson, Dothan, who will always refer to him as “MY JOE”; son, John Brooks Robinson, Clermont, FL, granddaughter, Miss Ellie Rose Robinson; two brothers, Lawrence Robinson, Cowarts, Leon Robinson, Washington State, sister, Yvonne “Von” Owens, Cowarts; very special “Aunt Net” Vordenbaum; three stepdaughters; ones stepson; seven step grandchildren; three step great grandchildren; his very best friend Tim and Wanda Lewis whom he loved like another brother; several nieces, nephews, cousins also survive, along with a host of other very good friends.
A very special thanks to Dr. Sam Banner and all of the staff at Gentiva Hospice.
Mr. Daniel Alton Hall, Sr., a resident of Dothan, Alabama, passed away Monday, September 21, 2015 at his residence.
Memorial services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Friday, September 25, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage Funeral Home with James and Debra Brooks speaking and Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends immediately following the services at the funeral home.
Born in Miami, Florida, Daniel is the son of Rose Evans Hall and the late Oscar Hall, Sr. He worked in the construction industry for several years prior to his retirement and was a veteran of the U.S. Army having served his country in the Viet Nam War.
Surviving are his wife, Marilyn Cox Hall, Dothan, Alabama; a son, Daniel Hall, Jr., Dothan, Alabama; three daughters, Debra Brooks, Huntsville, Alabama, Dana Hall and Brenda Baxley, both of Dothan, Alabama; three brothers, Bobby Hall, Franklin Hall and Joe Hall all of Florida; five grandchildren.
Dorothy Jean “Dot” Kinlaw, a resident of Dothan, passed away Tuesday, September 22, 2015. She was 85 years old.
Dot was born August 10, 1930 in Houston County to the late Lewis and Tessie McCord. She was a graduate of Cottonwood High School. She was a member of Bethel Baptist Church, the Welcome Sunday School Class, and the Never Grow Old senior adult ministry. Dot worked with G.T.E. phone service as an operator and trainer for 35 years before she retired to care for her mother. She will be remembered as a caring and loving mother, Nanny, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by six siblings: Ralph McCord, Christine Glass, Mildred Lewis, Raymond “Pete” McCord, Randall “Red” McCord, and Billy McCord.
Dot is survived by her daughter and son-in law, Cindy & Glen Elmore of Ashford; one grandson, Nick Elmore of Dothan and his fiancé’, Melanie Howell; one great-granddaughter, Raegan Elmore; two brothers, Rudy (Peggy) McCord and Jimmy (Judy) McCord of Dothan; two sisters, Martha Arnett of Columbia and Sadie (Gary) Peeples of Meridian, MS.; two sisters-in-law, Merle McCord of Cottonwood and Leneve McCord of Ashford; many nieces & nephews that she loved dearly and a host of friends.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, September 24, 2015 at Bethel Baptist Church with Reverend. Ricky Plummer officiating. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service at Bethel Baptist church. Burial will follow at the Memphis Baptist Church cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bethel Baptist Church Building Fund, 3257 East Cottonwood Road, Dothan, AL 36301 or the American Cancer Society, 2346 West Main Street Suite 3, Dothan, AL 36301.
Mrs. Catherine Irene Womack, a resident of Cottonwood passed away Saturday, September 19, 2015 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center. She was 75.
Memorial services for Mrs. Womack will be held at 11 AM Wednesday, September 23, 2015 at Cottonwood First Baptist Church with Reverend Jimmy Bolin and Reverend John Smith officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 AM prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Cottonwood First Baptist Church, 12702 Cottonwood Road, Cottonwood, AL 36320.
Mrs. Womack was born June 6, 1940 in Cordele, Georgia and later moved to Jackson County, Florida where she was a 1958 graduate of Campbellton High School. She was multi-talented lady who excelled in nursing, being a caretaker and a florist. Mrs. Womack was a member of Cottonwood First Baptist Church, the Red Hat Society, an avid collector and above all a loving wife, mother and grandmother.
Survivors include her husband, Myrias “Mack” Womack; two daughters, Angela Pickren and Katrina Morgan; two granddaughters, Diawn (Harry) Dupuy, Caitlin Johnson; five great grandchildren, Joshua Miller, Shai-Anne Rozier, Cody Lee Slayde, Catherine Dupuy, Reese Johnson; sister, Abbie (Hurdis) Rudd; two foster sisters, Jerri (Joe) Hough, Bobbie Curtis and several nieces and nephews.
Jimmy Ralph Parker, a resident of Dothan, died Monday, September 14, 2015 at his home. He was 73.
Graveside services for Mr. Parker will be held at 11 AM Wednesday, September 16, 2015 in Cottonwood City cemetery with Reverend John Smith officiating. The family will receive friends from 10 AM until 10:45 AM at Cottonwood First Baptist Church prior to the service.
Mr. Parker is preceded in death by his parents, Alto and Mattie Bowers Parker, sister, Sara Pierce and a brother, R.B. Parker.
Survivors include two daughters, Bonnie and Jim Cook, Dothan, Elaine King, Dothan; four grandchildren, Lindsey King, Landen King, Lauren Cook and Jack Cook; two brothers, Jerry and Gayle Parker, Headland, Levoyd and Ann Bowers, Columbus, GA.
Dean Averill, 54, from Dothan, Alabama, passed away peacefully with his sister by his side at Bonifay Nursing and Rehabilitation in Bonifay, Florida on Thursday, September 10, 2015.
Dean was born in Richland, Washington. He graduated from Northview High School in 1979 before attending Wallace Community College and graduating with a degree in welding. He loved wood working and restoring cars alongside his dad. He enjoyed his travels around the United States with his parents.
I asked friends and family to describe Dean with one word and these are the responses: genuine, selfless, free spirited, witty, ornery, humorous, sarcastic, determined, tough, sharp, clever, and a flirt! He was loved by so many and he touched many lives along the way.
Dean was preceded in death by his parents Floyd and Theresa Averill; a brother, Les Averill; a niece Brigitta Averill; and a brother in law Joel Cooley.
Survivors include a brother, Paul (Vicky) Averill, Lacrosse, WI; two sisters, Julie (Tim) Bigham, Dothan, AL, and Gail Cooley, Hanford, CA; many cousins, nieces, and great nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at a later undetermined date. Memorial contributions may be made to any animal shelter or humane society of your choice, or to Bonifay Nursing and Rehabilitation 306 West Brock Avenue Bonifay, Florida 32425. Dean’s mom contributed greatly at the holidays and we would love for this to continue.
Wanda Renea Devane Knight, 55, a resident of Midland City, Alabama, died Friday, September 11, 2015 at Flowers Hospital surrounded by her loving family.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 15, 2015 at Southern Heritage Funeral Home with a memorial service to be held at a later date.
Born in Houston County, Alabama, on December 15, 1959 a daughter of the late Iverson and Georgeann Snyder Devane. She was of the Baptist faith.
In addition to her parents, Wanda was preceded in death by a daughter, Robyn Fontenot.
Surviving are two sons, Dustin Knight and Eric Knight both of Midland City, Alabama; a daughter, Tiffany Clark, Panama City Beach, Florida; a brother, Sunny Devane, Cottonwood, Alabama; two grandchildren, Tyler Clark and Madison Clark.
Patricia Ann Peacock Holland, a resident of Dothan, passed away Tuesday Sept. 1st 2015 at Brookwood Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. She was 76 years old.
Funeral services for Mrs. Holland will be held at 10 AM Saturday September 5, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Reverend Addis Habbard and Reverend Mark Brackin officiating. Burial will follow in Big Creek United Methodist cemetery with Southern Heritage directing. The family will receive friends from 5 PM until 8 PM Friday, September 4, 2015 at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to; Patricia Holland Memorial Fund Madrid United Methodist Church P.O. box 5568 Dothan, Al. 36302
Mrs. Holland was born May 23, 1939 and a lifelong resident of Houston County. She was the daughter of Hugh Dorsey Peacock and Lota Lee Lott. She founded Holland Machine Shop and Holland Manufacturing in 1965 with her lifelong partner, the late Doyle Holland. Mrs. Holland loved gardening, cooking, sewing, antiquing, raising quarter horses, and spending time with her family. She was a member of the National Cutting Horse Association, Olympia Home and Garden Club, and Madrid United Methodist Church.
She was proceeded in death by her parents, her husband, a sister Peggy Peacock Collins, and a brother Rickey Peacock, and a brother in law Mickey Wayne Holland.
Survivors include a daughter and three sons, Patricia Kaye and husband, Wade Everett, Gregory Doyle and wife, Kim Holland, Steven Morgan Holland, Keith Allen and wife, Amanda Holland; two sisters, Shirley and husband, David Carrol, Brenda and husband, Pat Bradley, brother, Hugh and wife, Mary Peacock; ten grandchildren, Amber Holland-Smith and husband, Justin Smith, Patricia Roberts, Lee Ann Roberts, Marcee Holland, Heather Lane, Syndi White, Isabell Holland, Brooke Holland, Colt Holland, Gracie Holland; and five great-grandchildren, Micheal and Clayton Bass, Holland, Hudson, and Henley Smith.
Ian Seth Hubbard, a resident of Pansey, died Monday, August 31, 2015 at Baptist Medical Center South. He was 23.
Funeral services for Ian will be held 2 PM Friday, September 4, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Rev. Judy Dyson and Rev. Garner Wood officiating. Burial will follow in Ashford City cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 PM until 8 PM Thursday, September 3, 2015 at the funeral home.
Ian was born May 25, 1992 in Richmond, Virginia to the late James Edward Hubbard, Sr. and Giovonnie Faith Gibson. He loved NASCAR, Gibson Racing #16 and Alabama Football.
Survivors include his mother, Giovonnie Gibson, Pansey; Granny, Barbara Gibson, Pansey; grandfather, Johnny Gibson, Pansey; sisters, Faith and James Gray, Panama City, Sheila Silvera, Donna Sanchez; uncles, Johnny and Stacey Gibson, Pansey, Jay Hubbard, Jonathan Hubbard, Judah Hubbard; nieces, Kaitlynn Gibson, Ashtyn and Hannah Gray, Chelsea Lien; nephew, Dylan Gray; several other nieces, nephews and family.
Pallbearers will be; Johnny Gibson, Jamie Gray, Tony Harris and Zale Ingalls.
Patricia Angelin (Angie) Herring was called home in the arms of her loving Savior and Lord at approximately 1:21 PM Saturday, August 29, 2015. Her loving family was by her side.
Graveside services will be held at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 2, 2015, at New Harmony Freewill Baptist Church Cemetery in Cottonwood. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home prior to the service. Flowers are accepted or memorial contributions may be made to the Houston County Humane Society.
Angie was born March 16, 1945 to her late parents, Woodrow W. and Othell Danford Herring, Sr. in Dothan, Alabama. She resided most of her young life in cottonwood, Alabama. She was a graduate of Cottonwood High School in 1963 and attended Troy State University to receive her Bachelor Degree in Business Education. Following a short career in teaching she began a new career in Medical Records Administration at West Paces and Saint Joseph’s Hospitals in Atlanta, Georgia. Angie received the award of one of the Top Ten Medical Transcribers of the State of Georgia. She did retire from her medical career in 2007. The following year she returned back to her childhood home to take care of her mother who was suffering from Alzheimer Disease.
Angie was a dear and loving daughter, sister, aunt and friend to all. Her heart was so full of love and she touched many lives with her tenderness and care. She would come to the aid of all those she felt were in need. Angie was also an animal advocate. She would shelter stray animals and find them homes. She considered her life was a gift so she spent most of her life giving love to others. Her smile and tender touch will be missed by her loving family and friends.
Survivors include a special uncle and aunt, Robert Earl and Ann Danford, Dothan; sister, Phyllis and Brent Jenkins, Dothan; brothers, Woodrow W. Herring, Jr, Cottonwood, Ronnie and Belinda Herring, Dothan, Phillip and Dianne Herring, Cottonwood; niece, Michelle and Jason Wells, Colquitt; nephews, Woody and Cindy Herring, Jasper, Ron and Jennifer Herring, Dothan, Randy and Deeya Herring, Cottonwood, Ricky and Andrea Herring, Dothan, Brent and Joy Herring, Cottonwood; very special friend, Sue and Jim Allen, Atlanta; several loving great nieces, nephews and cousins.
Molly Jo Boswell, 61, a resident of Taylor, Alabama passed away Saturday, August 29, 2015 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center surrounded by her loving family.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, August 31, 2015 in Clearman Chapel of Southern Heritage Funeral Home. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the funeral home. Interment will be at a later time.
Born in Olean, New York, Molly was a daughter of Charles LeRoy Knowlton, III, and Imojean Irene Nupp Cronk. She was employed by Advance Auto Parts prior to her retirement.
In addition to her parents, she is survived by her spouse, Darrell Edge, Taylor, Alabama; a son & daughter-in-law, Thomas & Shannon Boswell, Jr, Elba, Alabama; brothers, sisters and grandchildren, Shelby Boswell, Kyle Boswell, and Sadi Skye Boswell.
A.W. (Ted) Bertagnolli, a resident of Ashford, passed away peacefully at his home Thursday, August 27, 2015 surrounded by his wife and family.
Memorial services will be held Saturday, August 29, 2015 at 2 PM in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Pastor Keith Johnson officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to Covenant Hospice, 104 Rockbridge Rd., Dothan, AL 36303 or Shriners Hospital, 2900 N. Rocky Point Dr., Tampa, FL 33607.
Mr. Bertagnolli was born January 11, 1930 in Daphne, Alabama, where he lived the early years of his life and where his extended family remains. He served his country in the Pacific during the post-war occupation of Japan and the Korean War. Mr. Bertagnolli was a member of the Operating Engineers Local 653 for 63 years. During that time, he was grateful to have had the opportunity to mentor dozens of young men into careers in the building trades. Mr. Bertagnolli became a Master Mason in 1956 and held a dual membership in the Abba and Alcazar Shriners Temples. He took great pleasure in transporting children to receive no-cost medical services provided by the Alcazar Temple and received at the Shriners Hospitals in Greenville, SC and Cincinnati, OH. Mr. Bertagnolli made this trip over 100 times and as long as his health allowed it.
Mr. Bertagnolli was a devoted husband to his wife of 63 years, Ann Rains Bertagnolli, and a proud father of four, Kathy (Larry) Shelley, Andy (Deborah) Bertagnolli, Susan (Thomas) Dale and Laura Bertagnolli, all of Ashford; eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Willie B. Watford, 96, of Cottonwood, Alabama, died Tuesday, August 25, 2015 at Extendicare Health and Rehabilitation Center.
Mr. Watford was born in Madrid, May 9, 1919, the son of Johnny and Alice Watford, He grew up in Madrid where he operated a general mercantile store for a number of years. He was a veteran of World War II and a lifelong member of Madrid United Methodist Church.
He is survived by his wife, Myra Watford and two sisters, Louise Watson and Helen Miller, several nieces and nephews.
A private graveside service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Madrid Senior Center, Madrid, Alabama.
Brenda Joyce Armstrong Deatherage, 66, of Hodgesville, passed away at her home on Sunday, August 16, 2015, surrounded by her loving family.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 18, 2015 at Hodgesville Baptist Church with Reverend Jeff Peacock and Reverend Fred Bacher officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with Southern Heritage funeral directing. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. on Tuesday at the church prior to the service.
Born in Houston County, Alabama, Brenda was a daughter of Lucille Paulk Armstrong Woodham and the late Freddie Armstrong. She was a 1967 Graduate of Cottonwood High School and worked as a Cosmetologist and in management of retail stores, and apartments. She enjoyed the outdoors and gardening.
In addition to her mother, Brenda is survived by her husband, Virgil Harrison Deatherage, JR, Hodgesville; three sons, Kevin (Wendy) Deatherage, Cottonwood, Keith Deatherage, Dothan and Beau (Kristy) Deatherage, Hodgesville; a brother, William Armstrong, Dothan; a sister, Gail Danford, Dothan; three grandchildren, Dakota, Kendyle and Colier Deatherage.
David Bradford Wells, 74, of Cottonwood, Alabama, passed away Thursday, August 13, 2015 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center.
Graveside funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, August 15, 2015 at Madrid City Cemetery with Brother Jayson Kirk officiating. Visitation will be from 8:30 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home prior to the service.
Born in Houston County, Alabama, he was a son of the late Rudolph and Ferrell Pennington Wells. He retired from the Alabama U.S. Army National Guard and PEMCO.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 26 years Beverly Wells, a brother Lynn Wells, and a stepson, Robert Amos.
Surviving are stepsons, Thomas, Billy, John, and Mike Amos; step daughters, Diana McCord and Nichole Payne; sons, Keith and Kyle Wells; three sisters, Joyce Traylor, Juanita Motley, and Mary Davis; a brother, Bruce Wells; twenty eight grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren.
Christine Whitehurst Battles, a resident of Dothan, died Thursday, August 13, 2015 at Extendicare. She was 86.
Funeral services for Mrs. Battles will be held at 11 AM Saturday, August 15, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Reverends Rick Glenn and Travis Free officiating. Burial will follow in Memphis Baptist Church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 PM until 7 PM Friday, August 14, 2015 at the funeral home. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 3054 C McGhee Road, Montgomery, AL 363111.
Mrs. Battles was born April 20, 1929 in Houston County to the late Henry and Claudia Pitts Whitehurst. She was a longtime member of Memphis Baptist Church and has been a member of Rehobeth Baptist Church for the last ten years. She was a loving mother and her grandchildren and great grandchildren were her joy.
Mrs. Battles is preceded in death by husband, Dorman Battles; her parents and a sister, Catherine Byrd.
Survivors include two daughters and a son in law, Patricia Kirkland and Dave Williams, Panama City, Wanda and Jerry Williams, Dothan; four grandchildren, John William Penn (Joanne), Jason Edward Penn (Amy), Frank Williams (Rebecca), Charlene Reiser (Mike); nine great grandchildren, Caitlyn, Courtney, Madalyn, Zane and Kason Penn, Brittany Sanders (Brian), Kristen Reiser, Sarah Brooks and Ryan Morgan; two great great-grandchildren, Rachel and Macie Sanders; four sisters in law, Carolyn and Gene Hall, Rudene Howell, Francie Ingram and Mildred Battles.
The family would like to thank the staff at Extendicare for their care and concern.
Floyd O. Leighton II, 69, of Dothan, Alabama died Monday, August 10, 2015.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, August 15, 2015 at Tabernacle United Methodist Church with Philip Collins and Andy Gartman officiating. Family will receive friends at the church 1 to 1 ½ hours before service.
Floyd was born in Cumberland, Maryland on July 3, 1946 to Floyd and Dolores Leighton. He moved to and spent his adolescent years in Winchester, Virginia, and graduated from Handley High School in 1966.
A 36 year government civil service career took him all over the United States, plus two tours in Europe, with his final assignment of 12 years as the Director of Information Management for Fort Rucker in Enterprise, Alabama before retiring to Dothan, Alabama.
Floyd had a great love of football and coached throughout his life. He was head coach (“The Man”) of several championship teams in Europe and assisted a few years at Dothan’s Houston Academy. He enjoyed weight training, cars, and just talking with people. His sense of humor, wit and compassion earned him many friendships throughout his life.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Linda Crenshaw Leighton; daughter Deborah Leighton of Birmingham, Alabama; son GK (Carolyn) Leighton of Trinity Florida, son Regan (Gloria) Leighton of Katy Texas; grandchildren Logan, Dylan, and Arianna Leighton of Trinity Florida; mother Dolores Y. Leighton of Dothan, Alabama; sister Cynthia Dahlen of Largo Florida; brother Douglas Leighton of West Virginia; and several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank Gentiva Hospice and Home Health Care for their care and support. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, or the Tabernacle Church Building Fund.
John Calvin Strickland, Jr., a resident of Ashford, died Saturday, August 8, 2015 at Wesley Manor. He was 88.
Funeral services for Mr. Strickland will be held at 11AM Wednesday, August 12, 2015 at Rocky Creek United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends from 10 AM until 10:45 AM prior to the service. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Rocky Creek UMC Cemetery Fund, PO Box 677, Ashford, AL 36312.
Mr. Strickland was born March 25, 1927 to the late John Calvin and Alice Mixon Strickland, Sr. He attended Cottonwood High School and was a veteran of the United States Army having served during World War II. Upon returning from the war, Mr. Strickland began a career as a Firefighter with the City of Dothan and retired after 20 years as a Captain. He enjoyed gardening and fishing and was a member of Rocky Creek United Methodist Church.
Mr. Strickland is preceded in death by a son, Ronnie Strickland.
Survivors include his wife, Betty Ruth Strickland, Ashford; two daughters, Shelia and Dennis Robbins, Dothan, Delane and Mike Parris, Hoover; son, Steve and Cindy Strickland, Dothan; six grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; sister, Ann Kirkland; brother, Dan Strickland, both of Cottonwood.
Jane Elmore McCardle, a resident of Cottonwood, died Saturday, August 8, 2015. She was 70.
Funeral services for Mrs. McCardle will be held at 11 AM Tuesday, August 11, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Reverend John Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Ramah Primitive Baptist Church. The family will receive friends this evening from 4 PM until 6 PM at the funeral home.
Mrs. McCardle was born August 16, 1944 to Clarence Eugene and Mary Delitha Bond Elmore. She worked for the Ashford Power for 35 years and then the Enterprise Ledger and the Dothan Eagle. Mrs. McCardle was Ashford’s Woman of the Year in 1982 and a founding member of the Ashford Chamber of Commerce where she served as President from 1995 to 1997. After her retirement she continued to serve on the National Peanut Festival Board, enjoyed Bunco, trips with her cousins and the Cottonwood Senior Program.
Mrs. McCardle is preceded in death by her parents, husband, AJ McCardle; brothers, Jerry Bond Elmore and Jackie Eugene Elmore.
Survivors include her daughters, Pam and Scott Lowe, Kim Dillard; son, Chris McCardle, all of Cottonwood; grandchildren, Taylor and Jarod Lowe, Payton (Jason) Whitehead, Madison Dillard, Cade and Cohen McCardle, special great granddaughter, Emmalyn Jace Whitehead; sisters, Linda (Jimmy) Anderson, Ashford, LaGail (Bob) Chisholm, Collierville, TN; sister in law, Sue Elmore, Bonifay, FL; nieces and nephews and a special family friend, Brenda Joyce Gulledge.
James Grover “Jimmy” Meggs, a resident of Dothan, died Friday, August 7, 2015 at his residence. He was 54.
Funeral services for Mr. Meggs will be held at 2 PM Tuesday, August 11, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Reverends Jim Tate, Rick Glenn and Scott Matthews officiating. Burial will follow at Memphis Baptist Church cemetery with Southern Heritage directing. The family will receive friends from 6 PM until 8 PM Monday, August 10, 2015 at the funeral home.
Jimmy grew up in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. He lived most of his adult life in Dothan. He owned Meggs BP for many years and also owned Meggs Bait & Tackle. Jimmy enjoyed playing golf, was an avid bass fisherman and loved Alabama football. He was active in the Rehobeth High School Quarterback Club and Rehobeth High School Bass Team and was a member at Memphis Baptist Church. The family will be at 4200 Memphis Church Road, Dothan, AL 36301.
Jimmy is preceded in death by his father, Henry Russell Meggs, SR.; mother, Katherine Meggs Brown; father in law and mother in law, James and Mary Nell Kirkland.
Survivors include his wife, Valisa Meggs; son, Tyler Meggs; brothers, Russell Meggs, Jr. (Rebecca), Steve Meggs (Sandra), half-brother, Heath Meggs; brother in law, Tim Kirkland and a step-father, James Brown.
Serving as pallbearers will be; Chris Meggs, Josh Meggs, Hunter Wilkinson, Chris Hale, Rickey Henderson and Marc Vaughn.
Special thanks to Dr. Ryan Conner, Dr. Peter Rao and the staff at SAMC and Southern Care Hospice.
Marion Faye Fuller North, 76, of Dothan, Alabama, went home to be with her heavenly Father on Sunday, August 2, 2015 surrounded by her loving family.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 5, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Reverend Kyle Gatlin officiating. Burial will follow in Memory Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m.to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 4, 2015 at the funeral home, and other times at the home of Jamie Woodham.
Flowers are accepted or contributions may be made to St. Joseph Indian School, 1301 North Main Street, Chamberlain, South Dakota 57325.
Born in Bossier City, Lousiana, Marion was the daughter of the late F.M. Fuller and Fern Creamer. She was a homemaker and loved her family, especially her loyal and devoted husband, Jim, gardening, fishing, the outdoors, and camping – She loved life!
Marion is survived by her husband of 54 years, Jim North, Sr, Dothan, Alabama; two sons: James E. (Sherry) North, Jr, Petal, Mississippi, and Jon (Michelle) North, Ashford, Alabama; three daughters: Cheryl (Craig) Scurlock, Dothan, Alabama, Linda (Ned) Lowry, McLean, Virginia, and Jamie Woodham, Dothan, Alabama; two brothers: Walt (Monette) Creamer, and Ricky (Ruby) Creamer, Dothan, Alabama; 12 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
Shana Kay Buie Snell, a resident of Columbia, Alabama, died Tuesday, July 28, 2015 at her residence. She was 37.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Friday, July 31, 2015 at Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Reverend Markus Murdock officiating. Private graveside services for the immediate family will follow in Center Baptist Church Cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
Born in Houston County, Alabama on October 19, 1977, she was a daughter of William Herbert and Sharron Fountain Buie. She was a 1995 graduate of Rehobeth High School and worked as a receptionist for Carmichael Appraisal Services. She was a member of Center Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by brother, Shawn Buie, and grandparents, James Edward Fountain, Walton Travis Buie and Mitchell Louise Nowell Buie, and an uncle Edward Fountain.
Surviving in addition to her parents are her step mother, Cathy (William Herbert) Buie; two sons, Kyle William Snell, Columbia, Alabama and Kaleb Jameson Snell, Slocomb, Alabama; maternal grandmother, Montez Fountaine, Webb, Alabama; three nieces and nephews, several cousins.
Willard Boyette, 66, of Ashford, Alabama, passed away Monday, July 27, 2015 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 30, 2015 at Madrid Assembly of God Church with Reverend John Smith, Reverend Jerry Harden, and Reverend Jack Wingate officiating. Burial will follow in Madrid City Cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 29, 2015 at the funeral home, and at other times will be at the family residence.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Boyette was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Haley Price, and a brother-in-law, Aubrey Stanfill.
Willard was born in Houston County, Alabama to the late Willard Ralph and Dorothy Mae Adams Boyett. He was a 1968 graduate of Cottonwood High School and worked as a dispatcher for Lane Trucking Company, Bowman Trucking Company, and his own company, TBM Trucking Company. He is of the Assembly of God Faith.
Surviving are his wife, Pamela McMillan Boyette, Ashford, AL; a daughter and son-in-law, Kim (Michael “Big Mike”) Price, Cottonwood, AL; two sons & daughter-in-law, Jimmy Deese, Ashford, AL, Kevin (Brittany) Kirkland, Cottonwood, AL; a brother, Robert Boyett, Cottonwood, AL; two sisters, Sarah Welch, Cottonwood, AL, and Katie Williams, Kinsey, AL; five grandchildren, Michael (Abi) Price, Josh Price (Darian Gill), Dakoda and Rangeley Deese, Kenzie Kirkland; one great grandchild, Jameson Price; several nieces and nephews.
Linda Ann Guilford, a resident of Ashford, died Sunday, July 26, 2015 at her residence. She was 68.
Funeral services for Mrs. Guilford will be held at 11 AM Tuesday July 28, 2015 at Love Hill Assembly of God church with Pastor Stephen Peacock officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10 AM until 10:45 AM prior to the service.
Mrs. Guilford was born and raised in the Cottonwood community on November 3, 1946 to the late Alton and Bessie Inez Nowell Bradshaw. She was a cosmetologist and a homemaker who also enjoyed decorating, hunting and Alabama football.
Survivors include her husband, Johnny C. Guilford; daughter, Sherry Morgan (Philip); sons, Tony Love (Loretta), Timothy Love, all of Lovetown; step children, Johnny and Jeannie Guilford; grandchildren, Blake Floyd, Tyler Love, Caden Love, Katie Gamble, Renea Morgan, Kaley Adams; great grandchildren, Henlee and Lydia Floyd, Madison Love, Bryleigh Spurlock; Brother, Johnny Bradshaw; sisters, Shirley Folds and Evelyn Patton; many nieces and nephews.
Carlos Earl Hodges, a resident of Cottonwood, died Wednesday, July 22, 2015 at Grand Boulevard Health & Rehab in Miramar Beach, Florida. He was 89.
Funeral services for Mr. Hodges will be held at 2 PM Friday, July 31, 2015 at Hodgesville Baptist church with Reverend Mark Bristow officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends beginning at 1 PM prior to the service.
Mr. Hodges was born January 23, 1926 in Houston County to the late Arthur Lee and Mary Anna Hodges. He attended Cottonwood High School and later joined the US Army. Following the Army he obtained his GED and graduated from the University of Alabama in three years in 1950. Mr. Hodges was a dance instructor at the Fountaineblu and Palm Beach Hotel. He later moved to Panama City Beach where he owned restaurants, real estate companies and was a general contractor. Mr. Hodges enjoyed the farm living in Cottonwood but also loved living and working at the beach where he resided for 50 years.
Survivors include a son, Ryan Hodges (Aprill); two daughters, Nina Freer (John), LeeAnna Hodges, all of Panama City Beach; three grandchildren, Nina Victoria Hodges, Krista Southworth and Shayne Southworth.
Betty Adams, a resident of Cottonwood, died Wednesday, July 22, 2015 at the home of a son surrounded by family. She was 79.
Funeral services will be held at 10 AM Saturday, July 25, 2015 at Calvary Baptist Church in Cottonwood with Reverend John Smith officiating. Burial will follow in New Harmony Free Will Baptist Church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4 PM until 8 PM Friday, July 24, 2015 at Mrs. Adams’ home, 23 Todd Street, Cottonwood, AL 36320.
Mrs. Adams was born March 17, 1936 to the late Albert Odell and Bessie E. Sellers Tindell. She moved to East Point, Florida in the 70’s and returned to Cottonwood in 1995 where she lived the remainder of her life. Mrs. Adams was of the Holiness faith and enjoyed working in her flower beds.
Mrs. Adams is preceded in death by her husband, Herbert Cleveland Adams; infant brother; two grandsons, Brian Spears, Jake Hickman and a daughter in law, Ann Adams.
Survivors include three sons, Cleveland Odell Adams, Dothan, Henry Franklin Adams, George Robert Adams (Bonnie); two daughters, Charlotte McCall and Brenda Sanders, all of Cottonwood; eight grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; brother, Henry Tindell (Janice), East Point, Florida.
Agnes Garner, a resident of Cottonwood, died Saturday July 11, 2015 at her residence. She was 62.
Funeral services will be held 2 PM Saturday July 18, 2015 at Hodgesville Baptist Church with Reverends Mark Bristow and Joel Snell officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 PM until 8 PM Friday July 17, 2015 at the funeral home.
Mrs. Garner was born November 7, 1952 to the late Jim and Lucille Jones Crutchfield. She was raised in Graceville and was a 1971 graduate of Graceville High School. She began her career working at the sewing factory in Cottonwood and later worked as an Engineering Assistant for ALDOT where she retired. Mrs. Garner was a lady who loved her family and caring for others, travelling, gardening and was a member of Hodgseville Baptist.
In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by a sister, Sarah Crutchfield.
Survivors include her husband, Billy Garner, Cottonwood; daughter and son in law, Nicole and Randy Hoberecht, Olympia, Washington; son and daughter in law, Clay and Ashlee Garner, Enterprise; grandchildren, Eli, Sara, Taylor, Ella Grace; sister, Catherine Knight; brothers, Edward, David, William and Randy Crutchfield; special cousin, Barbara Day; several nieces and nephews.
Ralph F. Crowe of Cowarts, Alabama born November 27, 1944 and passed away on Friday, July 3, 2015 at his residence. He leaves behind a loving wife Elizabeth Stevens; a daughter, two sons and their wives; six grandchildren; three brothers and three sisters and their families.
James Henry Carter, a resident of Chipley, Florida died Sunday, July 5, 2015 at Washington Rehab & Nursing. He was 65.
Graveside services for Mr. Carter will be held at 10 AM Thursday, July 9, 2015 at Crestlawn Memorial cemetery. Mr. Carter will lie in state from Noon until 3 PM Wednesday, July 8, 2015 at Southern Heritage Funeral Home.
Victoria Sue Black Bain, 70, of Cottonwood, AL, passed away Friday, July 3, 2015 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center.
Private Memorial services will be held at a later date in the home of family members.
Victoria was born in Cheviot, Ohio a daughter of the late Stoner Earl and Laura Grace Field Black. She was a homemaker, mother and grandmother to her children and grandchildren who she loved, cherished and enjoyed.
Surviving are three sons, James Russell (Anita) Bain, Charles Lee (Kimberly) Bain both of Dothan, Al, Richard Alan Bain, Rehobeth, Al; a daughter, Janet Sue (Frank) Bain Molnar, Meriden CT; a brother, Lonnie Black, Cincinnati, OH; four sisters, Mary Cormican, Lawrenceburg, IN, Donna Dole, Harrison, OH, Lena Bentle, Lawrenceburg, IN and Shirley Sanders, Simpsonville, SC; nine grandchildren, Rachel Molnar, Steven Molnar, Christina Doseck, Andrew Bain, Gregory Doseck, Joshua Doseck, Courtney Bain, Jessica Bain and James P. Bain; five great grandchildren, Christian Franck, Jayden Hulon, Alexis Guerrero, Morgan Molnar, Westin Molnar and Slade Doseck.
Candra Michelle Womack, a resident of Cottonwood, died Thursday, July 2, 2015 at her residence. She was 25.
Funeral services will be held 1 PM Tuesday, July 7, 2015 at Friendship Baptist Church in Malone, Florida. Burial will follow at Howard Grove Freewill Baptist Church in Cottonwood, Alabama. The family will receive friends from 6 PM until 8 PM at the funeral home Monday, July 6, 2015.
Candra was born November 16, 1989 in Panama City, Florida to Steven and Tammy Fowler Cullifer. She was raised in Malone and was a 2009 graduate of Malone High School. Candra was a homemaker and loving mother and wife who enjoyed arts and crafts and she was always willing to help with the March of Dimes.
Candra is preceded in death by her father, Steven Cullifer; nana, Sylvia Lou King; grandfather, Mack Cullifer.
Survivors include her husband, Ben Womack, Cottonwood; son, Joseph Womack, Cottonwood; mother and step father, Tammy and Joe Bob Baxter, Malone; father and mother in law, Dewayne and Johnnie Womack, Cottonwood; grandmother, Lola Cullifer, two sisters, Jessica and Joe Slupski, Enterprise, Sabra Cullifer, Malone; brother, Joey and Tabatha Baxter, Dothan; brother in law, Jacob “Scooter” Womack, Cottonwood, several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews also survive.
Bette Maxine Duke Brooks, 77, widow of Franklin M. Brooks, SR of Cottonwood, Alabama, passed away Thursday, July 2, 2015 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center surrounded by her loving family.
Funeral services will be held at 2:30 P.M. Sunday, July 5, 2015 at Union Hill Baptist Church with Reverend Kyle Johnson and Reverend Jimmy Bolin officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing.
The family will receive friends from 1:30 P.M. until 2:30 P.M. Sunday at the church prior to the services and at other times will be at the home of Bucky and Melinda Brooks in Cottonwood.
Bette was a daughter of the late John Irwin and Pennie Barnes Duke. She was retired from TGY Department Store following fifteen years of service and also owned and operated the Lighthouse Ceramics for several years following her retirement. She was a faithful member of Union Hill Baptist Church.
Surviving are four sons and daughters-in-law, Franklin M. Brooks, JR, Cottonwood, AL, Curtis O’Neal (Phyllis) Brooks, Elba, AL, John Dewayne (Stephana) Brooks, Dothan, AL and Delmar Rudolph Bucky (Melinda) Brooks, Cottonwood, AL; seven grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.
William T. Hart passed away on Tuesday, June 23, 2015 at UAB Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama.
Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, June 28, 2015 at Evergreen Presbyterian Church in Dothan, Alabama with Dr. Joseph Johnson, Pastor and Rev. Ashley Drake Mertz, Associate Pastor, officiating. The family will receive friends immediately after the services. Mr. Hart’s ashes will be scattered among the many places he truly loved, including Birmingham, Alabama; Auburn University; Destin, Florida, and the beaches of South Walton County, Florida.
Born in Jefferson County, Alabama, Mr. Hart was the son of the late Samuel Robert Hart and the late Fannie A. Hart. He graduated from Ensley High School and Auburn University.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife of fifty-six years, Barbara Postle Hart.
Surviving are his three children; Lori Kay Hart of Dothan, Alabama, William Samuel Hart of Destin, Florida, and John David Hart (Haven) of Auburn, Alabama; five grandchildren, Elizabeth Thomas, Jon Thomas, John David Hart, Jr., Ellie Hart and Anna Hart. He also leaves a brother, Samuel Robert Hart, Jr. of Birmingham, sister-in-law Patricia Postle of Tuscaloosa, and brother-in-law Greg Postle (Debbie) of Punta Gorda, Florida, along with seven nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Outreach Ministries of Evergreen Presbyterian Church, 1103 North Pontiac Avenue, Dothan AL 36303 (334) 792-7898.
Tammy Lynn Bacher Seagle, age 46, passed away Saturday, June 20, 2015 at her home in Dothan, Alabama.
Memorial Services will be held Wednesday, June 24, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at Dothan Country Fellowship 211 Johnny Murphy Road, Rehobeth, Alabama 36301.
Homer Junior Aman of Ashford, Alabama passed away at home on June 13, 2015 at the age of 88.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Tuesday June 16th, 2015 at Enterprise Baptist Church in Ashford, Alabama with Dr. David Baker officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 am – 10:45 am prior to the service. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will accept flowers or contributions may be made to; First Choice Hospice Inc, 966 Claxton Ave Elba, Alabama 36323 or Enterprise Baptist Church, 25 Enterprise Church Rd Ashford, Alabama 36312.
Homer was an active member of Enterprise Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon. Serving his country proudly, he was a veteran of WWII. Dedicated to the betterment of his community, he served as a Houston County Commissioner for 16 years. He also was one of the founding members and served as a board member of the Farmers Co-op in Ashford, Alabama.
He is preceded in death by his son, Rodney Aman and his daughter in law, Diane Aman.
He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Mary Nell Aman, son, Douglas Keith Aman (Martha), and sisters, Roberta Miller (Grover), and Betty Southerland (Harold). grandchildren; Brad Aman (Jessica), Mark Aman (Suzette), Doug Aman, Jr. (Ann), Mallory Wilson (Trent), and Frank Aman (Laura), great grandchildren; Emma Kate Aman, Karsten Aman, Natalie Ashworth, Nathan Ashworth, Sloane Aman, Mary Suzan Aman, Anna Mark Aman, Wilson Aman, Kate Aman, Miller Wilson, Tucker Wilson, Mallie Wilson, and Frank Aman.
Serving as pallbearers are Greg Baxley, Brad Aman, Mark Aman, Doug Aman, Jr., Frank Aman and Trent Wilson.
The family would like to give special thanks to caregiver Beverly Harris.
Helen Floyd Barnes, 77, of Dothan, Alabama, widow of Willie Gene “W.G.” Barnes, passed away Thursday, June 11, 2015 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center.
Funeral services will be held 3:00 p.m. Saturday , June 13, 2015 in Clearman Chapel of Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Reverend John Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Howard Grove Freewill Baptist Church Cemetery in Cottonwood, Alabama. The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. prior to the services at the funeral home. At other times the family will be at the family residence, 113 Patriot Place, Dothan, Alabama 36305.
Serving as active pallbearers will be Troy Barnes, Jr., Chip Allen Crooms, Robert Lucas Tice, Trevor Grey Edge, Benjaman Yon Floyd, David Rex Floyd, and Terry Dean Edge.
Mrs. Barnes was born in Houston County, Alabama to the late Addis and Lucille Pearce Floyd, and resided in Cottonwood, Alabama before moving to Dothan, Alabama six years ago. She was a homemaker and a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Cottonwood, Alabama.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Barnes was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Candace Barnes, and a brother, James Stewart Floyd.
Survivors include four daughters, Sarah Crooms (Rodney), Ashford, Debra Edge (Terry), Dothan, Sonja Real (Doug), Huntsville, Jeanie Talley (Richard), Dothan; two sons, Troy Barnes (Shelia), Anniston, Keith Barnes (Donna), Ozark; ten grandchildren, Troy Barnes, Jr. (Tracy), Robert Lucas Tice, Trevor Edge, Chip Crooms (Shelley), Jodi Crooms Scott, Angel Barnes Boyd (James), Galen Olive-Talley Smith (David), Hayden Olive-Talley, Emma Claire Talley, Katie Talley; several great grandchildren; a brother, Rex Floyd (Patty), Panama City, Florida; a sister, Elmarie Pickels, Marianna, Florida; a special caregiver and loving friend, Chinita Jackson, and other caregivers, Ashley Frazier and Annie Young.
Sarah Nelson, 83, of Gordon, Alabama, passed away at her residence Wednesday, June 10, 2015, with her loving family at her bedside.
Graveside funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 13, 2015 at Dothan City Cemetery with Reverend Jimmy Bolin officiating and Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 12:30 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. Saturday prior to the graveside service at the funeral home.
Born in Dothan, Alabama, Sarah was a daughter of the late William Crate and Thelma Edwards Davis. She was a homemaker and was of the Baptist faith.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Wayne Nelson.Surviving are six sons, Eugene Nelson, Bobby Nelson, Kenny Nelson, Billy Nelson, Charles Nelson, James Nelson; a daughter, Kathy Kolmetz; a bother, Johnny Mac Davis; a sister, Winnie Owens; nine grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren.
Linda Gail Knight Mertes, 63, of Dothan, Alabama, passed away Tuesday, June 9, 2015 at her residence surrounded by her loving family.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, June 12, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Mr. Roy Wilson officiating. Burial will follow in Bethesda Baptist Church Cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Thursday, June 11, 2015 at the funeral home, and at other times will be at their respective homes.
Born in Henry County, Alabama, Linda was a daughter of the late B.C. and Corine Grantham Knight. She was a homemaker and attended Pine Hills Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by three Brothers, Howard Knight, Robert Knight, Billy Knight and a sister, Kathy Connell.
Surviving are her husband, Steve Alan Mertes, Dothan, AL; sons, Robert (Pan) Deese, Headland, AL, Bryan (Sumer) Mertes, Wicksburg, AL, and Jason (Melissa) Mertes, Dothan, AL; five brothers, Thomas Knight & Hubert Knight both of Dothan, AL Glen Knight, Level Plains, AL, Dennis Knight, Kinsey, AL and Earl Knight, Bainbridge, GA; five sisters, Inez Webb, Headland, AL, Patricia Jenkins, Slocomb, AL, Joyce Griffith, Corinth, MS, Millie Knight Pharr, Pensacola, FL and Shelia Knight, Dothan, AL; eight grandchildren, Hattie Mertes, Brennan Mertes, Luke Mertes, Chad Deese, Angela Deese, Delana Deese, Heather Deese and David Deese; two great grandchildren.
Jacob Andrew Forrest, 36, of Dothan, Alabama, died Monday, May 18, 2015 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 P.M. Wednesday, May 20, 2015 at Memphis Baptist Church with Reverend Jim Tate officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 19, 2015 at Memphis Baptist Church and at other times will be at the family residence.
Flowers are accepted or contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, C/O Memorial Chair: Carol Sloane, 134 Quarles Court, Ozark, Alabama 36360.
Born in Columbus, GA, Jacob is a son of Bobby and Glenda Forrest. He was a graduate of Troy State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology. He had worked as a firefighter with the Charleston, SC and Summerville, SC Fire Departments prior to becoming a teacher at Ashford Academy in Ashford, Alabama. He is a member of Memphis Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Annie Williams and Bonnie Forrest.
Surviving are his wife, Haley Lynn Kirkland Forrest, Dothan, AL; two daughters, Bonnie Joy Forrest and Baylee Sue Forrest both of Dothan, AL; a brother & sister-in law, Josh (Audrey) Forrest, Alabaster, AL; Brother-in-law, John David Kirkland, Tuscaloosa, AL; Nephews, Ben Forrest & Avery Forrest; numerous aunts & uncles; father-in-law and mother-in-law, David & Joy Kirkland.
Danny Ralph Hall, a resident of Dothan, died Saturday, May 16, 2015 at his residence surrounded by his family. He was 52.
Memorial services for Danny will be held at 6 PM Tuesday, May 19, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Reverend Coley Holloway officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 5 PM prior to the service.
Danny was born March 19, 1963 in Dothan, Alabama to Earl Ralph and Edna Merle Jenkins Hall. He worked for Wiregrass Construction as a Heavy Equipment Operator. Danny enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family in many outdoor activities. He was a member of Liberty Baptist Church in Pansey.
Danny is preceded in death by his mother, Edna Merle Hall.
Survivors include his father, Earl Hall, Elba; wife, Donna Hall, Dothan; three daughters, Sierria Hall, Tiffany Hall Farmer (Tyler) and Amber Gist, all of Dothan; grandson, Grayson Towns; two brothers, Ricky Earl Hall (Sheila), Headland, Jason Hall (Myra), Millbrook; sister, Faye Hatcher (Danny), Pansey; mother in law, Connie Lakey, Dothan; sister in law, Veronica Scott (Zack), Pansey; nieces and nephews, Dakota Deatherage, Elizabeth Hall Crooms (Colten), Jackson, Addison, Kylie, Anna and Ella Hall, Chris Hatcher (Tamra), Daniel and Justin Hatcher.
The family wishes to thank so many for their love and support over the last five months but special thanks goes to Wiregrass Construction, Southeastern Cardiology and the Liberty Baptist church family.
Wilma Barnett “Tillie” Johnson, 98, a longtime resident of Dothan, died May 12, 2015 at Flowers Hospital, where she was ministered to by a very professional and compassionate staff, along with her devoted internist Dr. Diana Mancuso. The family is appreciative of these very special caretakers.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2015 at 10:00 AM at First Baptist Church with Reverend Bob Gross officiating and Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 300 W. Main St., Dothan, AL 36303.
Wilma was born December 31, 1916 in Ashford, Alabama. After graduating from Ashford High School, she earned an education degree from Troy State Teachers’ College and then taught school in Ashford for a number of years. She was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Dothan where she regularly attended until prevented by her deteriorating health.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Fred Byrd Johnson, founder and owner of Johnson Funeral Home in Dothan; parents, Lela Taylor Barnett and William Print Barnett; and brother Ray Barnett, all of Dothan and formerly Panama City, FL.
She is survived by two children, devoted son Fred Barnett Johnson (Kathy) of Dothan, with whom she lived for the last 15 years, and daughter Pamela Johnson Beville (Doug) of Greenville, AL, and formerly Mobile; three grandchildren, Natalie Beville Stanley (David) of Montgomery, Laney Beville Hayes (Walker) of Franklin, TN, and Keyal Aronson of Birmingham; nine great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Johnny Thomas Dykes, 74, of Cottonwood, Alabama, died Wednesday, May 6, 2015 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center with his loving family at his bedside.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 9, 2015 at Calvary Baptist Church in Cottonwood, Alabama with Reverend Karl Hudson officiating and Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Calvary Baptist Church prior to the services.
Born in Gulf County, Florida, Johnny was a son of the late George and Dora Mae Causey Dykes. He worked as a diesel and automobile mechanic most of his working career, and served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was a member of Calvary Baptist Church.
Mr. Dykes was preceded in death by two brothers, Buddy Dykes and George Dykes; and two sisters, Frances Ringer and Louise Hart.
Surviving are his wife, Patricia Butler Dykes, Cottonwood, Alabama; a son and daughter-in-law, Bennett Thomas (Holly) Dykes, Dothan, Alabama; a daughter and son-in-law, Joy Lynn (Lynn) Granger, Dothan, Alabama; a brother and sister-in-law, Phillip (Maxine) Dykes, Pansey, Alabama; two sisters and brother-in-law, Bertha (Paul) Davis, Port St. Joe, Florida, and Mary Rhames, Wewahitchka, Florida; four grandchildren and spouses, Hannah (Phillip) Durant, Gregory Heath “Bo” (Kelsi) Dykes, Breanna (Jordan) Bell, and Caitlin (Derek) Guy; three great grandchildren, Phillip Julian “Ian” Durant, Zander Bennett Durant, and Liam Rylee Dykes
Jerry Fay Ridley, 61, of Ashford, Alabama, died Wednesday, April 29, 2015 at his residence.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 2, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Reverend Jerry Harden officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home prior to the services and at other times will be at their respective homes.
Born in Houston County, Alabama, Jerry was a son of the late L.P. and Helen Mercer Ridley. He was a graduate of Ashford High School and worked in route delivery with the Dothan Eagle Newspaper for the past fifteen years and was of the Baptist faith.
Surviving are a daughter and son-in-law, Jeniffer (Jerry) Boyett, Troy, AL; a son and daughter-in-law, Joseph (Hannah) Ridley, Clermont, GA; a brother and sister-in-law, Joel (Rosanne) Ridley, Dothan, Alabama; four grandchildren, Cody Boyett, Dylan Ridley, Tyler Ridley and Kaylee Ridley.
Ethel Shiver, a resident of Ashford, died Wednesday, April 29, 2015 at the Southeast Alabama Medical Center. She was 93.
Graveside services for Mrs. Shiver will be held at 11 AM Friday, May 1, 2015 at Ashford City cemetery with Rev. Ray McKenzie officiating. The family will receive friends thirty minutes prior to the graveside and immediately following the service.
Mrs. Shiver was born June 23, 1921 in Houston County to the late Cleveland and Ola Harris Lewis. She was a seamstress at Wex-Tex and worked alongside her husband growing and selling produce. Mrs. Shiver will be remembered as a very good and loving mother who enjoyed sewing and cooking.
Mrs. Shiver is preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, William Loyd Shiver; son, Jerry Shiver; granddaughter, Julie Pike; grandson, Doug Dismukes; four sisters and six brothers.
Mrs. Shiver is survived by two daughters, Vanarie Dismukes, Dothan, Marie and Gary Lawrence, Ashford; five grandchildren, Micah Dismukes, Eric Lawrence, John David Lawrence, Candace Lawrence Stewart, Emily Lawrence Mendheim; 14 great grandchildren; three great great grandchildren; three sisters, Patsy Pipkin, Enterprise, Diane Wilhite, Texas, Polly Tew, Mississippi; two brothers, Don Lewis, Johnson City, TN and Russell Lewis, Ashford.
Ralph Wayne Sauls, a resident of Dothan, died Tuesday, April 28, 2015 at his residence. He was 72.
Mr. Sauls was born August 24, 1942 to the late Porter and Ruby Johnson Sauls. He worked for and retired from Hedstrom Union after 25 plus years of service. Mr. Sauls enjoyed fishing and watching TV.
Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Peggy Sauls, Dothan; daughter Kandy Harger (Mike), Dothan; son Tony Sauls (Patsy), Dothan; grandchildren, Jason Harger (Natasha), Justin, Seth, Cody and Colby Sauls; five great grandchildren.
Barry Guy Shields, a resident of Greenwood, Florida died Saturday, April 18, 2015 at the Southeast Alabama Medical Center. He was 52.
Memorial services for Mr. Shields will be held at 1 PM Monday, April 20, 2015 at Dothan Christian Fellowship with Chaplain Phillip Durr officiating.
Barry was born February 3, 1963 in Baltimore, Maryland to the late Bedney and Relda Jean Nettles Shields. He was raised in Orlando and joined the United States Navy in 1982 and was granted an Honorable Discharge in 1999. Barry worked as a Corrections Officer for the State of Florida at the Sunland location. He loved baseball and was an avid fan of the Atlanta Braves.
Survivors include his wife of 27 years, Diana Shields; special four legged friend, Regis; sister, Mandy Albright; brothers, Rodney Shields, Bedney Shields, Marvin Shields and Ron Shields. The family wishes to thank AlaCare Hospice, SAMC 3rd floor staff and the Mexican Connection staff. A huge thank you goes out to Sylvia Benavente for being the families’ angel during this time in their life.
Helen Parker Rolen, a resident of Dothan, passed away Saturday, April 18, 2015 at The Terrace at Grove Park. She was 96.
Graveside services for Mrs. Rolen will be held at 11 AM Monday, April 20, 2015 at Memory Hill cemetery with Dr. Johnny Fain officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to; First Baptist Church, 300 W. Main Street, Dothan, AL 36301.
Mrs. Rolen was born January 26, 1919 to the late John and Ethel Parker. She lived in Dothan her entire life. Helen and her husband, Ewell, established Ideal Bakery in 1946, bringing homemade goods to Dothan. In August 1971, their son joined Ewell to open Rolen’s Bakery. In addition to working together, Helen and Ewell had exciting and hilarious adventures as they travelled across the United States in their motorhome. The family has enjoyed many afternoons listening to her regale them with these travel tales. Helen enjoyed playing bridge, visiting with friends and spending time with family. She especially liked hearing about all of the activities of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a longtime member of First Baptist Church Dothan where she served in a variety of roles. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who will be sorely missed.
Helen is preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Ewell Rolen and a grandson, John L. Harris, III.
Mrs. Rolen is survived by two daughters, Dolores R. Harris, Atlanta, Cynthia R. Lumpkin, Dothan; son, and daughter in law, Guy and Jennifer Rolen, Dothan; grandchildren, Helen Smith, Lilburn, GA, Barbra Lail, Lookout Mountain, TN, Jill Pacer, Collierville, TN, Jeina Rolen, Smyrna, GA, and Brent Rolen, Orlando, FL; eight great-grandchildren, Sydney Smith, Ryan, Anna and Sara Pacer, Lindsay and Harris Lail, Jack and Charlie Rolen-Love.
The family wishes to offer a special thank you to the Terrace staff and nurses. Mother was family there.
Elizabeth Jean Metcalf Raines, a resident of Slocomb, passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2015 at Bethany House in Auburn, Alabama. She was 86.
Funeral services for Mrs. Raines will be held at 3 PM Sunday, April 19, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Rev. Jim Simmons officiating. Private family burial will follow. The family will receive friends from 1:30 PM until 2:45 Pm prior to the service.
Mrs. Raines was born July 28, 1928 to the late Charlie C. and Evelyn Smith Metcalf. She was a graduate of Wicksburg High School and retired from the Slocomb National Bank after 20 years of service. Mrs. Raines loved working with her hands and was a master seamstress, enjoyed needlework and loved to cook for her family. She was a member of the VFW Auxiliary and the Hartford Church of Christ.
Mrs. Raines is preceded in death by her husband, C.T. Raines and a sister, Barbara Metcalf Harden.
Survivors include her daughter, Julia Raines Freeman, Auburn; sons, Philip Raines (Donna), Atlanta, Scott Raines (Michelle), Asheville, NC; six granddaughters, Shelley Freeman Taylor (Chuck), Ashley Freeman Ward (Michael), Amanda Raines Burgan (Robby), McKenzi Raines, Jordan Raines and Chloe Raines; five great-grandchildren; brother, B.C. Metcalf (Myra), Dothan and a brother in law, Cliff Harden, Mt. Dora, FL.
Peggy Ann Cureton, a resident of Dothan, died Monday, April 13, 2015 at her residence. She was 69.
Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Wednesday, April 15, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Dothan City cemetery with Southern Heritage directing. The family will receive friends from 12:30 until 1:45 pm prior to the services at the funeral home.
Mrs. Cureton was born June 18, 1945 in Dothan to the late Ernest Neal and Kathryn Duke Hall, Sr. She was a lifelong resident of Dothan and worked as a dispatcher at Dothan Cab Company, Shute’s Pecan and DeanCo Auction. Mrs. Cureton enjoyed reading and collecting angels and was of the Baptist faith.
Mrs. Cureton is preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Ernest Neal Hall, Jr., and the father of her children, General Lamar Brantley.
Survivors include her husband of 33 years, Johnny Cureton, Dothan; two daughters, Patty Brantley Wilson, (Eric), Covington, GA, Pamela Brantley, Dothan; five grandchildren; six great grandchildren; sister, Ginger Price, Winder, GA; brother, Lee Hall (Fonda), Taylor.
Virginia Waller, 84, widow of the late Carl Waller, Sr., formerly of Dothan, died Sunday, April 12, 2015 in Sea Breeze Health Care in Panama City, Florida.
Born in Brooklyn, Alabama, Virginia was a daughter of the late David and Mabell Ware Fuqua.Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, 2015 in Memory Hill Cemetery with Reverend Danny Corley officiating and Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing.
The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the cemetery.
Surviving are three sons, Robert Sutton, Charles Waller and Carl Edward Waller, Jr.; a daughter, Patti Waller; a brother, Ronald Fuqua; a sister, Wilma Lambert; five grandchildren.
Lee Kelly, 64, of Dothan, Alabama, died Sunday, April 5, 2015 at Noland Hospital following an extended illness.
Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Reverend Ricky Plummer officiating and Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, 2015 at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in his honor may be made to Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation, 1004-A O’Reilly Avenue, San Francisco, California 94129 or to Bethel Baptist Church, 3257 E. Cottonwood Road, Dothan, Alabama 36301.
Born in Dothan, Alabama, Lee was a son of the late Foy Kelly and Reba McClellan Swearengin. He attended school in Birmingham, Alabama and Auburndale, Florida before returning to Dothan and attending Wallace Community College. He worked as an insurance agent for Independent Life Insurance Company for a number of years prior to his employment with the U.S. Postal service as a letter carrier for a career that spanned over twenty years. Lee was a member of the National Association of Letter Carriers and served as a shop steward and as the treasurer of the Local NALC Branch 1630. Lee was a former member of Heritage Baptist Church where he served as deacon and is presently a member of Bethel Baptist Church.
Mr. Kelly was preceded in death by a brother, Foy Mack Kelly and a sister, Connie Kelly Meyer.
Surviving are his wife, Terri Jeffries Kelly, Dothan, Alabama; Mother-in-law, Betty Jeffries, Dothan, Alabama; several nieces, nephews and cousins and his very special pets, Bruiser and Deacon.
Miss Morgan Nicole Hasty, passed away peacefully in the arms of family on Friday, April 3, 2015 and was immediately healed and in the presence of Jesus. She fought a courageous battle against cancer for almost 5 years. She was 11 years old.
Celebration of Life services for Morgan will be held at 2 PM Monday, April 6, 2015 at Memphis Baptist Church with Pastor Jim Tate officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with Southern Heritage directing. The family will receive friends from 5 PM until 8 PM Sunday, April 5, 2015 at Memphis Baptist Church. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to; Memphis Baptist Church, 4595 Eddins Road, Dothan, AL 36301 or Children’s Hospital of Alabama, Lowder 512, 1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233.
Morgan was born June 23, 2003 to David and Mitzi McLendon Hasty. She was currently attending Providence Christian School and was in the 5th grade. Morgan loved gymnastics, playing basketball, painting, arts and crafts, playing with her dogs and especially aggravating her big brother. She was a member of Memphis Baptist Church.
Survivors include her parents, David and Mitzi Hasty, Webb; brother, Dylan Hasty, Webb; grandparents, Quency and Sandra McLendon, Ashford, Halcot and Janet Hasty, Webb, Betty Hasty, Dothan; aunts and uncles, Stephen and Wendy Jones, Ken and Amber Brown, Stacey and Kim Trotter; cousins, Landon, Tyler, Caleb and Sophie Jones, Madison Brown, Abree and Ashlyn Trotter.
Charles Edison “Eddie” Booth, 66, of Cottonwood, Alabama, died early Wednesday, April 01, 2015, at his residence surrounded by his loving family.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, April 3, 2015 in Clearman Chapel of Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Reverend James Nance and speakers Eddie Sorrells and Dink Wilkins officiating and Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Thursday, April 2, 2015 at the funeral home and at other times will be at the family residence.
Born in Bonifay, Florida, Eddie was a son of Eleanor Sue Woodham “Momma Sue” and the late Samuel Edison “Honey” Booth. He worked as an electrician at the Farley Nuclear Plant and was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Mr. Booth was a member of Mt. Enon Baptist Church.
Surviving are his wife, Cindy Cooper Booth, Cottonwood, Alabama; two sons and daughters-in-law, Adam (Regina) Booth, Rehobeth, Alabama, and Aaron (Tanya) Scott, Cedar Rapids, Iowa; two daughters and sons-in-law, April Booth (Jason) Shiver, Dothan, Alabama, and Rhonda Bass (Paul), Cottonwood, Alabama; a brother, Kenny Booth, Mobile, Alabama; nine grandchildren, Tyler & Jase Booth, Kim, Megan and Ryane Scott, Hannah and Jacob Shiver, Haley Bass, Marshall Scott- Kellie; two great grandchildren, Bailey and Olivia Ethridge.
Geraldian Dye, a resident of Dothan, died Tuesday, March 24, 2015 at her residence. She was 77.
Funeral services for Mrs. Dye will be held at 11 Am Friday, March 27, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Dr. Tony Dye officiating. Burial will follow at Gardens of Memory cemetery with Southern Heritage directing. The family will receive friends from 9:45 AM until 10:45 AM prior to the service.
Mrs. Dye was born February 15, 1938 in Pike County, Alabama to the late Milton “Red” and Maggie Mae Allen. She was a military wife that travelled the world with her husband. Mrs. Dye was a bookkeeper by trade and a member of the Ladies of Elks Lodge for several years.
Survivors include her husband, Samuel Dye, Dothan; daughter, Donna Quinones, Madison, WI; sons, Tony Dye (Shirlon), Elba, Hugh Dye (Lee), Birmingham, Samuel R. Dye, Jr. (Rosalina), Dothan, Ronnie Dye, Dothan; eleven grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; sister, Sally Allen, brothers, Bill Allen and Johnny Allen.
Marguarete Peggy Reyner, 85, of Dothan, Alabama, died Wednesday, March 18, 2015 at Flowers Hospital.
Celebration of Life Memorial Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 23, 2015 at Wesley Manor Chapel, 718 Honeysuckle Road, Dothan, Alabama with Reverend Ally Freeman officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service in the chapel.
Born in Germantown, Pennsylvania, she was a daughter of the late Louring and Catherine Morton Reyner. She worked as a bookkeeper in suburban Philadelphia and spent most of her life as a caretaker of her mother.
Ms. Reyner is survived by her brother, Webster C. Reyner, Dothan, Alabama; nieces, Robin Gibbons (Greg), Cleveland, Ohio; grand niece, Laine Walker, Chattanooga, Tennessee; nephew, Web Reyner, Jr. and children, Web Reyner, III and Kelli Reyner, Charlotte, North Carolina; nephew, Wayne Reyner (Vanessa) and grand niece, Virginia Reyner, Daphne, Alabama; step niece, Charlotte Atkins, Gainsville, Georgia; a special friend, Richard Betz, Dothan, Alabama.
In lieu of flowers, her, family suggest donations be make to the Friends of Wesley Manor, 718 Honeysuckle Road, Dothan, Alabama.
Rosie B Gainer, 82, of Cottondale, FL, died Saturday, March 14, 2015 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center with her loving family at her bedside.
Graveside memorial services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, March18, 2015, at Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery in Cottondale, FL with Reverend Michael Jones and Reverend Thomas Forward officiating and Southern Heritage Funeral Home, Dothan, AL directing.
There will not be a formal Re-pass, but the family will receive friends immediately following the service in the cemetery.
Born in Jackson County, FL, Rosie was a daughter of the late Jake T and Ethel Jones Allen. She was Homemaker and attended Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Willie Gainer; a son, David Gainer; a brother, Jake T. Allen, JR; a sister, Inez Allen; two sisters-in-law, Lillie Rea Allen and Iris Allen.
Surviving are four sons, Carl L. Gainer, Granada Hills, CA, Marvin Joe Gainer, Jacksonville, FL, Steve Allen Gainer, Ashford, AL, and Larry D. Gainer, Norwalk, CA; seven daughters, Helen L. Brooks, Atascadero, CA, Nancy Gainer and Marilyn Gainer Spires both of Jacksonville, FL, Judy Reed, Grand Ridge, FL, Rosemary Spires, Jacksonville, FL, Wanda Ward, Dothan, AL and Cheryl Brown, Sneads, FL; a brother, Rufus Allen, Augusta, GA; thirty grandchildren; forty great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews also survive.
Louise Freeman, a resident of Taylor and formerly of Corbin, Kentucky, died Saturday March 7, 2015 at her residence. She was 94.
Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Tuesday, March 10, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Reverend Eddie Biss officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 1 PM prior to the service. Burial will follow in Horsecreek cemetery in Corbin, Kentucky at 12 PM Thursday, March 12, 2015.
Mrs. Freeman was born November 1, 1920 in Corbin, Kentucky and lived most of her life in Lexington. She was a beautician and enjoyed quilting.
Mrs. Freeman is preceded in death by her husband, W.O. Freeman; daughter, Tena Freeman and a son and daughter in law, Robert and Ruth Freeman, Sr.
Survivors include two grandsons, Robert Freeman, Jr., Taylor and Ronald Irving, Millersburg, KY; two granddaughters, Tammy McCurdy, Ocala, FL and Bonnie Hayden, Port Royal, KY; great grandchildren, Amy Freeman, David Freeman, Genesis Notestein, Colby Sherrow, Kaitlyn Hayden, Bailey Hayden, Devan McCardy; ten great great grandchildren; caregiver, Kathy Freeman.
Carl Clive Upton, Jr., 81, husband of Doris “Dolly” Frazier Upton died Friday, March 6, 2015, at his residence surrounded by his loving family.
Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, March 8, 2015 in Clearman Chapel of Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Reverend James Lendon Scott, Jr. officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the services at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, 1550 Parramore Road, Dothan, AL 36303 or to Covenant Hospice, 104 Rock Bridge Road, Dothan, AL 36303.
Born in Bakersville, NC, Carl was a son of the late Carl Clive and Lillian Sparks Upton, Sr. Carl was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and worked as a wholesale salesman in the interior design of businesses and with Georgia Pacific Papermill prior to his retirement. He was a member of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Upton was preceded in death by a daughter, Patricia Jean Upton; two brothers, Lawrence Howard Upton and Harley Wayne Upton; two sisters, Mary Kathleen Cook and Pauline Mavis Hudson and a brother-in-law Douglas Huffstetler.
Surviving in addition to his wife “Dolly” are a son and daughter-in-law, David Lee (Joanne) Upton, Mobile, AL; three daughters and sons-in-law, Teresa Gail Upton (Mury) Salls, Orlando, FL, Catherine Elaine Upton (Randall) Bogart and Sandra Kaye Upton (Bernard) Quinnelly all of Lee’s Summit, MO; a sister, Wanda Huffstetler, Dallas, NC; two sisters-in-law, Mary Tucker Upton, Gastonia, NC and Desma G. Upton, Stanley, NC; seventeen grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.
Mary Kaulani SmithVaughn, 81, widow of Clayburn Vaughn of Dothan, Alabama, died Wednesday, February 25, 2015 at her residence with her loving family by her side.
Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Saturday, February 28, 2015 at Bethel Baptist Church with Doctor Ricky Plummer officiating. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory Cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 6 PM until 8 PM Friday, February 27, 2015 at the funeral home.
Mary was born and raised in Bainbridge, GA, a daughter of the late Rhea and Bertha Mary Smolk Smith, She was a graduate of Bainbridge High School and received her Associate Degree in Nursing from Wallace College and worked as a Registered Nurse at Flowers Hospital for thirty years prior to her retirement. She is a member of Bethel Baptist Church.
Active pallbearers will be Jason Justice, John Vaughn, II, Joshua Vaughn, Andy Mayhall, John Mayhall and Joshua Mayhall.
In addition to her husband and parents, Mary was preceded in death by two daughters, Angela Pace and Andrea Mims.
Surviving are four sons, Clayburn Matthew Vaughn, John B. Vaughn I, Charles R. Vaughn and Joseph J. Vaughn all of Dothan, AL; two daughters, Rebecca Skipper and Rhonda Mayhall both of Dothan, AL; thirty two grandchildren, twenty great- grandchildren and two great great- grandchildren; two nephews, Albert Rhea Smith, Muskegon, MI and Larry Hornsby, Pensacola, FL; three nieces, Brenda Bailey, Verna Cohen and Beverly Smith all of Pensacola, FL
Remus Michael Jenkins, a resident of Pansey, died Saturday, February 21, 2015 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center. He was 69.
Funeral services for Mr. Jenkins will be held at 1 PM Tuesday, February 24, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Reverends Stephen Peacock and Marrell Turvin officiating. Burial will follow in the Mt. of Olives Cemetery in Cottonwood, AL. The family will receive friends tonight Monday, February 23, 2015 from 6 PM until 8 PM at the funeral home.
Mr. Jenkins was born November 5, 1945 in Hodgesville, Alabama to Cary and Jewel Givens Jenkins. He was a 1964 graduate of Rehobeth High School and worked for CSX Railroad and retired after 37 years of service. Mr. Jenkins enjoyed woodworking and anything dealing with the outdoors. He was a member of Love Hill Assembly of God Church.
Survivors include his wife, Sue Jenkins, Pansey; daughter, Susan Renea Jenkins, Pansey; two sons, Troy Remus Jenkins (Susan), Sharpsburg, NC, Brian Cary Jenkins (Misty), Graceville, FL, grandchildren, Lance Andrew Sharron (Kirsty), Koren Sharron (Steven), Elizabeth Jenkins (Devin), Tray Jenkins, Blair Lacy, Courtney, Jake, Breanna Warren, Kameron Blake McCord, Jessalyn Abigail Jenkins; 11 great grandchildren; sister, Melba Fears (Nick), Headland.
Lola B. Anderson, a resident of Ashford, died Friday, February 20, 2015 at Oakview Manor in Ozark. She was 93.
Funeral services for Mrs. Anderson will be held at 10 AM Monday February 23, 2015 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Pastor Olan Trawick officiating. Burial will follow in Gordon City cemetery. At other times the family will be at the home of Allen and Doreen Anderson, 2144 Gene Terry Road, Cottonwood, AL 36312.
Mrs. Anderson is preceded in death by her husband, Warren J. Anderson; two daughters, Dorothy Jean Trawick, Sarah Nell Veazey; granddaughter, Cathy Cosby and a great grandson, Cameron Turner.
Survivors include two daughters and sons in law, D’Renda Lewis (Joe), Daleville, Thelma Brown (Tony Godwin), Ashford; two sons and daughter in law, Kenneth Allen Anderson (Doreen), Ashford, Warren Jimmy Anderson, Ashford, 18 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren.
Robbie Jewel Marshall, 85, of Gordon, Alabama, was called to her heavenly home on Friday, January 16, 2015.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. today, Sunday, January 18, 2015 at Clearman Chapel of Southern Heritage Funeral Home in Dothan, AL with Reverend Scott Fulford officiating. Interment will follow in Springhill Freewill Baptist Church Cemetery in Gordon, AL with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. Robbie retired from Southeast Alabama Medical Center in 1994 after twenty one years as a labor and delivery nurse.
Serving as active pallbearers will be grandsons, Justin Mitchell, Nick Nowell, Cole Mashburn and Andrew Marshall and son-in-laws, Bill Mitchell and Van Mashburn.
Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Sunday, January 18, 2015 at the funeral home prior to the service.
Flowers are being accepted or contributions may be made in her honor to Springhill Freewill Baptist Church, 2763 Spring Hill Church Road, Gordon, AL 36343.
Mrs. Marshall was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Kate Douglas; brothers, C.H. Durell, Russell and Willie Douglas; sisters, Betty Baker and Lucille Hatcher.
Surviving are her husband of sixty four years, Bill Marshall; two daughters, Linda Mitchell (Bill) and Crissie Mashburn (Van); one son, Sonny Marshall (Teresa); brothers, John Douglas (Lily) and Randy Douglas (Luverne); sisters, Jean Parker, Blondell Conrad and Dinnah Lingo (Rex); eight grandchildren; five great grandchildren; one beloved pet, Angel.
Donnie Vernell (Wilkinson) Crowley, passed away peacefully at her home, 1895 Lucy Grade Road, Ashford, Alabama. She was 98.
Visitation with the family will be 12:30 p.m. until service time Friday, January 16, 2015 at Southern Heritage Funeral Home in Dothan, AL. The funeral service will follow at Southern Heritage at 2:00 p.m. with Reverend Lynn Miley officiating. Burial will follow in Cowarts Creek Church Cemetery on Lucy Grade Road.
In lieu of flowers the family request that Mrs. Crowley be honored by donations made to Cowarts Creek Church, c/o Mr. Rodney Fowler, 104 Coot Fowler Road, Dothan, AL 36301 or to Covenant Hospice, 104 Rock BridgeRroad, Dothan, AL 36303.
In addition to being wife, mother, and grandmother, Mrs. Crowley was an integral part of her husband’s life as a farmer and later as the two entertained family, friends, clubs, nursing homes and wherever they could with singing and music. Granny Crowley sang for family and others and recited “T’was the Night Before Christmas” until a few days prior to her death. During her active years she enjoyed Home Demonstration Club activities, farm functions, large family gathering, and enjoyed her many active years of church activities.
Mrs. Crowley was married for more than sixty-eight years to Clifford Barnett Crowley who predeceased her in July 2004. She was also predeceased by a daughter, Lovone Crowley in 1957 and son-in-law Wayne Love in 1983.
Mrs. Crowley is survived by a son, Gerald Crowley and his wife Mildred, and two daughters, Gerutha Love and Delores Frye and her husband Billy, as well as ten grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren.
Family and friends will be at the Crowley home on Lucy Grade Road.
Eliza Mae Peverill, a resident of Cottonwood, died Sunday, January 11, 2015 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center. She was 82.
Funeral services for Mrs. Peverill will be held at 3 PM Tuesday, January 13, 2015 at Ramah Primitive Baptist Church with Pastor Winston Jay officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.
Mrs. Peverill was born August 11, 1932 to the late Amos Rufus and Annie Mae Howell Sellers. She was a graduate of Cottonwood High and also Asbury College. Mrs. Peverill was a Methodist Pastors wife who taught Sunday School, had a puppet ministry and did many tasks for the church during their 30 plus years of ministry.
Mrs. Peverill is preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd Vernon Peverill.
Survivors include two daughters, Amy and Joseph Ashby, Stone Mountain, GA, Sue and Anthony Harris, Davenport, IA; two sons, Amos Peverill, Lynchburg, VA, Tim and Ranae Peverill, Manhattan, KS; twelve grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.
Peggy Timmons Fariss, 75, of Cowarts, Alabama, passed away Sunday, January 4, 2015 at her residence, with her loving family at her bedside.
Memorial Graveside Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 10, 2015 at Crestlawn Cemetery with Hospice Chaplain Paul Cowley officiating.
Born on November 25, 1939 Peggy was a daughter of the late William H. and Mable Kube Smith. She worked for Sarasota Memorial Hospital in Sarasota, Florida for over twenty five years prior to her retirement. She was a member of the Misty Creek Golf Club in Sarasota, Florida, and the Dothan National Golf Club in Dothan, Alabama.
The family would like to say a special thanks to Bernestine Oliver, Lupe Vasquez, and Wiregrass Hospice for all the care and love they shared with Peggy.
Peggy was preceded in death by her husband, John W. Fariss.
Surviving are three daughters, Debra Cason Hughes and Sandra Lee Dunaway both of Cowarts, Alabama, and Amy Kaye and her husband Joe Cason, Arlington, Georgia; several brothers and sisters; seven grandchildren, Jimmy Cason, Samantha Smith, Michael Skoyec, Todd Cason, Jonathon Cason, Bradley Cason and Katie Cason; and several great grandchildren.
Southern Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the Fariss family.
Robert Charles Mann, 83, originally from New Castle Pa., passed away at his home in Dothan, AL on December 22nd, 2014.
Memorial services will be held at 10 AM Monday, January 5, 2014 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to the Salvation Army or St. Judes Children’s Hospital.
Born April 27th 1931, he was an Air Force veteran who served during the Korean Conflict. Mr. Mann retired from the Broward County Sheriff’s Office in Sunrise Florida. He grew up in New Castle Pa., where he was in the auto parts business.
Mr. Mann was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Phyllis J. (Fullwood) Mann.
Mr. Mann is survived by a son, Robert Mann and three daughters, Margaret Kaufman, Debbie Mattingly, and Sarah Smolinski, 11 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
Aubrey Bradshaw, 90, of the Love Hill Community, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Sunday December 28, 2014 at Wesley Manor Retirement Community after an extended illness.
Funeral service will be held at Love Hill Assembly of God on Wednesday, December 31, 2014 at 2:00 P.M. with Reverend Marrell Turvin officiating. Visitation will be at the church Wednesday from 1:00 P.M. until service time. Burial will follow at Love Hill Assembly of God Cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Resource Center, P.O. Box 1170, Dothan, AL 36302.
Mr. Bradshaw was a veteran of World War II and a retired farmer. He was a member of Love Hill Assembly of God.
Mr. Bradshaw was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Katherine, his parents, Alice and Andrew Bradshaw, his brothers, Jim, George and Mitchell Bradshaw and his sisters, Roberta Mitchell, Myrtle Jones, Velma Rice and Ruby Dykes.
Survivors include his sister Eunice Varnum and several nieces and nephews.
Robert Charles Mann, a resident of Dothan, Alabama, died Monday, December 22, 2014 at his residence. He was 83 years old.
Private family memorial services will be held at a later date.
Richard Paul Villani, 54, of Dothan, Alabama, passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2014 at his residence surrounded by his family.
Memorial services with a gathering of family and friends will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Friday, December 26, 2014 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage Funeral Home.
Born in Jacksonville, Florida, Richard was a son of the late James Peter and Paula Marie Thompson Villani. He worked as an Industrial painter with the union prior to moving to Dothan and has since worked with his brother John as a residential painter.
Surviving are two brothers, John Villani, Dothan, Alabama, and Luke Lyman, Colorado; three sisters, Kris Beall and Kim Villani both of Las Vega, Nevada and Mary Button, Colorado; a special aunt, Norma Dennis; several nieces and nephews also survive.
James D. Branton, “Jimmy”, a resident of Youngstown, Florida died Saturday, December 20, 2014 following a brief illness at Bay Medical Center surrounded by his family. He was 60 years of age.
Funeral services for Jimmy will be held at 2:30 PM Tuesday, December 23, 2014 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Pastor Nick Bruner officiating. Private family burial will follow at Memory Hill cemetery. The family will receive friends beginning at 1:30 prior to the service. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to: American Heart Association, 1101 Northchase Parkway, Marietta, GA 30067.
Jimmy was born March 28, 1954 to James and Jean Hartley Branton. He was a 1972 graduate of Dothan High and later joined the US Navy. Jimmy was a graduate of Germanna Community College and attended the University of Mary Washington. He worked for BAE Systems Aerospace Company as an Analyst. Jimmy had a love for the outdoors and enjoyed fishing, skiing and boating. He also was fond of woodworking and cars.
Jimmy is preceded in death by his father, James Early Branton and a nephew, Joshua Todd Bruner.
Survivors include his wife, Belinda Branton, Yougstown, FL; son, James Branton, Spotsylvania, VA; mother, Jean Branton, Dothan; two sisters, Linda Jean Bruner and husband, Paul, Columbus, GA, Sue Dean and husband, Ronnie, Dothan; aunt, Mable Branton, Dothan and several nieces and nephews.
Mickey Wayne Holland, 63, of Dothan, Alabama, passed away Friday, December 19, 2014 at his residence surrounded by his loving family.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 23, 2014 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Hospice Chaplain Jodi Haddan officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. Enon Baptist Church Cemetery with Masonic Rites by Jamie Smith with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Monday, December 22, 2014 at the funeral home.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to all his caregivers and Gentiva Hospice.
Born in Houston County, Alabama, Mickey was a son of the late Hubert and Luverne Sims Holland. Mr. Holland was a 1969 graduate of Cottonwood High School and worked as a Pipefitter/Welder with Plumbers and Steam Fitters Local # 52. He was a member of the Ashford Masonic Lodge # 493 and an avid Alabama Crimson Tide Fan. He attended Bethel Baptist Church.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Holland was preceded in death by a brother, Doyle Holland.
Surviving are his wife, Sandra A. Enfinger Holland, Dothan, Alabama; two daughters, Theresa (Andy) Vinson, Dothan, Alabama, and Wendy Marie (Michael) Kennedy, Phenix City, Alabama: a beloved nephew, David (Lori) Littlejohn, Washington, DC; a brother, Bob Holland, Dothan, Alabama; grandchildren, Drew Vinson, David Kennedy, Heather Kennedy, Lexi Littlejohn, Keira Littlejohn, and Slater Toole. Several other nieces and nephews also survive.
Elmer “Wyatt” L. Earp, 85, passed away on Monday, December 15, 2014 at Seacoast Medical Center in Little River, SC.
He was born in Durham County, NC to the late Charles Clifford Earp and Mollie Landon Earp.
He was proceeded in death by his wives Lois Marilyn Spears, Dorothy Carol Terry, and Eleanor Pearl Simpler; sisters, Margaret Weaver, Roberta Hamlett, Alice Duke; brothers, Billy Earp and Bernice Earp.
He is survived by his son, Charles Dupre; daughter-in-law, Seeju Dupree; two grandchildren, Drieux and Devon; sister, Dolly Wilkerson; brother, Joe Earp; nieces and nephews; and many many friends.
Elmer served in the US Air Force for twenty years and attained the rank of Technical Sergeant. During his career he served in Korea and Vietnam. He was a member of the Air Force Sergeants Association Chapter 469A Dothan, AL, Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary Unit 87 Dothan AL, B-47 Stratojet Association, American Legion, VFW, and Elks Lodge. He took great pride in choosing a career that provided an opportunity to render honorable and patriotic service to his country.
He was also a charter member of the Harvest United Methodist Church and Covenant United Methodist Church in Dothan, AL.
Elmer was a sweet and gentle soul who found great pleasure in helping others. He was dearly loved and will be missed by all those who were blessed to have known him.
A military service will be held at Arlington National cemetery in addition to a memorial service in Dothan, Alabama, both to be announced at a later date.
Ben Harold Whitfield, a resident of Dothan died Thursday December 11, 2014 at his residence. He was 61.
Memorial services for Mr. Whitfield will be held at 2 PM Saturday, December 13, 2014 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Rev. Keith Sandlin officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.
Mr. Whitfield was born December 16, 1952 in Valdosta, Georgia to Harold and Jewel Gilliam Whitfield. He lived most of his life in Miami, Florida and moved to Dothan in 1984. Mr. Whitfield retired from Bell South Communications after 33 years of service and enjoyed fishing and playing music.
Survivors include his wife, Frances Whitfield, Dothan; sons, Dax and Beth Whitfield, Birmingham, Dustin Whitfield, Montgomery; daughters, Robyn Harper, Anniston, Denise and Terry Kemp, Montevallo; grandchildren, Chloe and Jackson Whitfield, Rakiya Whitfield, Kristian, Caitlin, Brooke and Dylan Kemp; brother, Gary and Fran Whitfield, Panama City Beach, Florida.
Essie Mae Bridges Kirkland, 82, of Cottonwood, Al, passed away at her home Monday, December 8, 2014 surrounded by her loving family.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 10, 2014 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Reverend Robert Kirkland and Reverend Tony Deese officiating. Burial will follow in Hickory Grove Baptist Church Cemetery with Southern Heritage directing. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 9, 2014 at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Cottonwood Senior Center, 1386 Metcalf Street, Cottonwood, Alabama 36320.
Born in Houston County, Alabama, she was a daughter of the late Ewell and Martha Tindell Bridges. Essie was a homemaker and a member of Cottonwood Senior Center and Calvary Baptist Church in Cottonwood.
Mrs. Kirkland was preceded in death by her husband, Harold “Shorty” Kirkland, SR; a son, Harold Kirkland JR and a granddaughter, Christy Kirkland.
Surviving are four sons, Albert (Starla) Kirkland, Jimmy Kirkland, Robert (Jane) Kirkland and Danny (Kim) Kirkland; five daughters, Janie (Ed) Harmon, Lynda (Randy) Campbell, JoAnn (Herb) Ruff, Kathy (Charles) Hunter, Sue (Dale) Lee and Shirley McGee; sister, Martha (Tony) Andrews; grandchildren, Meagan, Morgan, Madison, Tiffany, Andrew, Jackson, Angel, Ashton, Heather, Jessie, Sonny, Christopher, Jeremy, Lisa , Wendy, Todd, Taylor, John Robert, Joel, Aaron, Dowling, Beth, Nick, Autumn, Holly; Numerous step grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews..
Maudie Ree Forrest Brown, 85, widow of James Edward Brown, passed away Sunday, December 7, 2014 at the home of her son, surrounded by her loving family.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Bobby Forrest officiating. Burial will follow in Eastside Freewill Baptist Church Cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. tonight at the funeral home.
Born in Geneva County, Alabama, Maudie was a daughter of the late Malcolm Leroy and Bonnie Lou Jane Vanlandingham Forrest. She is a member of Eastside Freewill Baptist Church.
Surviving are a son, Jerome Brown, Dothan, Al; two daughters, Lynda (Mike) Whitaker, Black, Al and Kris (Terry) Knight, Dothan, Al; a brother, Bobby (Glenda) Forrest, Dothan, Al; a sister , Madrue (Tom) Majors, Black, Al; grandchildren, Pamela Bond, Jennifer Howell, Allyson Falgout, Jeremy, Tennille and Chad Whitaker, Andee Johnston and Hunter, Kaleb and Colton Knight and eight great grandchildren.
Joseph William Pace died December 3, 2014 leaving behind a loving legacy of family and friends. He was 93.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday afternoon at the Bay Springs Baptist Church on Bay Springs Road, Dothan, Alabama with Rev. Colley Holloway and Rev. Scott Cox officiating. The family will receive friends at the church immediately following the service.
Rev. Pace was born December 23, l920 in Shawnee, Oklahoma to John Pace and Bessie Eylar Pace. He had one older brother, Jack Pace. He graduated high school from Shawnee High School, playing football there and then later at Oklahoma Baptist University until he broke his back. From there he helped his dad build significant structures on campus and was the artist for several venues.
He married Audie Kathleen Cole on May 21, 1948, worked for an auto parts store and then became an ordained minister. Bill pastored several churches in Oklahoma through the years, and later in Independence, Kansas. Upon retirement, he and Audie moved to Alabama to be closer to children and grandchildren. He continued to pastor churches in Dothan and surrounding areas as well as travel to several countries with his wife doing mission work. He also served on the Southern Baptist Mission Board for several years.
Bill is survived by his daughter, Linda Pace Maddox, and husband, Jay Paul Maddox. They have four children, Ashley, Jeremiah, Joshua, and Alexandra. Jeremiah and Abby have the four grandchildren, Pace, Mary Aplin, Jay Paul, and Mae. He is also survived by several other nieces and nephews in Oklahoma and Texas.
Patricia Christopher Akey, 60, of Ashford, Alabama, died Monday, December 1, 2014 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center.
Memorial services will be held at 3:00 p. m. Thursday, December 4, 2014 at the home of a daughter, Kristian Haddan. A gathering of family and friends will also be at the residence at 6:00 p.m. to celebrate the life of Patricia.
She loved spending time with her family but most enjoyed the time she spent with her grandchildren. She worked as a hairdresser for over twenty years and loved taking care of others.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Margaret Joann Christopher; a sister, Donna Kay Wilson; a son, Baby Boy Haddan.
Sadly, she leaves behind her children, Kristian Ann Haddan and husband Clifford Lee Miller, III; Justin Kyle Haddan and wife Hannah Lea Haddan; grandchildren, Della Ann Johnson, Donavan Kahlil Johnson, Jazlea Claire Haddan and Silea Ann Haddan; three nieces and four nephews; father, Franklin David Carl Christopher; sister, Hope Lynn Worden; brothers, Franklin David Christopher and Birt Lee Christopher; and other loved ones, Terry Gene Haddan, Betty Jean Shade, Judy Gale Castleberry, and Christina Amerda Gordon.
She will truly be missed. Heaven has gained another angel.
Danny Lee Helvey, a resident of Ashford, died Tuesday, November 18, 2014 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center. He was 58.
Memorial services for Mr. Helvey will be held at 2 PM Sunday November 23, 2014 at the home of Joseph and Kayla Hodges, 192 Nathan Woods Road, Pansey, AL 36370. Flowers will be accepted and may be sent to the home.
Mr. Helvey was born April 29, 1956 in Jefferson County, Missouri to Herman and Ruby Viola Hawks Helvey. He moved to Ashford and has resided there for the last 27 years.
Survivors include his wife, Pearlie Crooms, Ashford; daughter, Tiffany Helvey; sons, Kelvin Hodges (Tiffany), Eddie Hodges (Heather), Randy Hodges (Jackie) Joseph Hodges (Kayla) and Brian Helvey; 10 grandchildren; sisters, Diane Smith, Yvonne Russell (Raymond), Annette Eaton (Steve); brother, Dennis Helvey (Donna).
Eva Myrle Smith, a resident of Dothan, died Monday, November 17, 2014 at her residence. She was 77.
Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Wednesday, November 19, 2014 at Bethel Baptist church with Rev. Ricky Plummer officiating. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory cemetery with Southern Heritage directing. The family will receive friends from 5 PM until 7 PM Tuesday, November 18, 2014 at the funeral home.
Ms. Smith was born and raised in Bainbridge, Georgia to the late Rhea and Bertha Mary Smolk Smith. She was a foreign missionary with the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention for over 20 years and a member of Bethel Baptist Church.
Ms. Smith is preceded in death by a sister, Cathrine Hornsby; brother, Alvin Smith and two nieces, Angela Pace and Andrea Mims.
Survivors include her sister, Mary S. Vaughn, Dothan; nieces, Rebecca Skipper, Rhonda Mayhall, all of Dothan, Brenda Bailey, Verna Cohren and Beverly Smith, all of Pensacola, FL; nephews, Clayburn M. Vaughn, John B. Vaughn I, Charles R. Vaughn, Joseph J. Vaughn, all of Dothan, Albert Rhea Smith, Muskegon, MI and Larry Hornsby, Pensacola, FL; several great nieces and nephews and extended family.
Fredrick Joseph Colby, a resident of Cowarts, died Saturday, November 15, 2014 at his residence. He was 38.
Funeral services for Fredrick will be held at 2 PM Tuesday, November 18, 2014 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Rev. Steve Trail officiating. Burial will follow in Crestlawn Memorial Cemetery with Southern Heritage directing.
