Larry Lloyd McIntire

Larry Lloyd McIntire "Papaw L" passed away Friday, February 26, 2021, at his home surrounded by his wife, children, and grandchildren. He was 82 years old.

Larry was born on January 20, 1939, in Chester, Mississippi to the late Oscar Lloyd "O.L." and Azalee McIntire. Larry grew up in Weir, Mississippi and attended Weir High School. He was a graduate of Weir High School Class of 1957. He loved the town of Weir and was a dedicated Weir Lion fan his whole life. He went to every home football game to support his hometown team.
On March 1, 1962, Larry married his bride, Shirley King McIntire. Together, they raised their three children in the wonderful community of Weir, and loved every single minute of it. Larry and Shirley were a few days short of their 59th wedding anniversary. They were a true testament of love and commitment to one another.

Larry was a member of Weir Baptist Church where he brought his family throughout the years. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge where he recently received his 60 year pin. Larry served our country in the U.S. Army. He proudly flew the American flag wherever he went.
​Until the very end, Larry was a hard worker. He worked for the Town of Weir as the water and gas supervisor. After he retired in 2004, Larry continued to serve the town as he would pick up the mail for the town hall every morning. Whenever the town needed help finding a water line, Larry would always lend a helping hand with a smile on his face. He knew exactly where every water line was in the town. Later on in life, Larry served the town as an Alderman. After he retired from the town of Weir, Larry started his dream job as a full time Papaw.

​Larry loved his family with his whole heart. He was present at every family reunion, called each family member on their birthday, and loved us throughout every season of life. He truly was the glue that held us all together. He always thought family was one of the most important things in life and always urged all of his children and grandchildren to stay close even after he passed away. Larry thought the world of his children and grandchildren, and he loved to spend all of his time with each of them and his loving wife.

​Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar Lloyd and Azalee Black McIntire, and his oldest son, Curtis McIntire.

​Larry is survived by his caring wife, Shirley McIntire of Weir, MS, daughter, Pam McIntire of Long Beach, MS, son, Chris McIntire (Cheryl) of French Camp, MS. He leaves behind three grandchildren, Nolan McIntire (Heather), Sam McIntire, and Reese McIntire. Larry also leaves behind three brothers, Kenneth McIntire (Jan), Jimmy McIntire, and Eddie McIntire (Suzanne), and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

​Funeral Services were held Monday, March 1, 2021, at Weir Baptist Church in Weir, MS. Pallbearers were grandsons, Nolan McIntire and Sam McIntire, Brice Utley, Ken Chandler, Ben Turnipseed, and Lee Turnipseed. Honorary Pallbearers included Larry's closest friends, Don Chandler, Jim Turnipseed, and Harvey Cook.

​Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

Ouida A. Loper

Ouida A.(Richardson) Loper, 81, passed away Saturday, February 27, 2021, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, MS. She was born July 22, 1939, in Frankville, AL, to Simon W. and Lottie M.(Anderson) Richardson.
She was a retired Hospital Administrator for Choctaw County Hospital and Choctaw County Nursing Home.

Services will be held on Tuesday, March 2, 2021, at 11AM, at Ackerman Baptist Church with Rev. Danny Irvin officiating. Burial will follow at Enon Cemetery in Ackerman, MS. Coleman Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Ouida is survived by 1 daughter, Carolyn Lindley of Ackerman, MS; 2 sons, Randy(Marina) Loper of Ackerman, and Joey Loper also of Ackerman, MS; 3 sisters, Lois(Shelton) Oats of Millry, AL, Lorene Morgan of Millry, AL, and Gayle(Mike) Hill of Demopolis, AL; 5 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren with 2 expected later this year.

Ouida is preceded in death by her husband, Harold Loper, and her parents.

Memorials may be made to the Ackerman Baptist Church Children's Fund.

Jaxtyn Smith

Christopher Jaxtyn Smith passed away on February 20, 2021, at the age of 8 months. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, February 27th, at Vernon Assembly of God Church, with Rev. Eugene Duran and Rev. Allen Eaves officiating. Visitation will be one hour before the service at the church. Interment will be in Vernon Assembly Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his mother, Ashton (Brad) Smith of Shannon, MS; a sister, Piper Smith of Shannon, MS; grandparents, DeAnna (Dale) Swearingen of Shannon, MS; Jackie Robertson Goodin of Louisville; Michael (Kay) Smith of Tupelo, MS; Frankie (Papaw Don) Robertson of Louisville; Cindy Pate of Tupelo, MS, Harvey Swearingen; aunts and uncles, Allyson (Sam) Musa, Caleb (Jenny) Swearingen, and Trisha, Laken, and Kayla and cousins, Jaclyn “Wawa” Presley, Chandlor Swearingen Kaleigh Swearingen, and Amera & Mia Musa.

He was preceded in death by grandparents, Chad Goodin, Steve Robertson, and Chris Smith.

Pallbearers will be Caleb Swearingen, Chandlor Swearingen, Junior Robertson, Sam Musa, and Don Kemp.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s or Blair Batson Children’s Hospital.

Dyanne Rigby

On February 25, 2021, Margaret Dyanne Rigby, 74, went home to be with her Savior and Lord. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on February 27, 2021, at First Baptist Church of Louisville, Mississippi. Dr. Don Boone, Rev. Heath Hillman, and Brad Rigby will be conducting the services. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the service time at the church. Interment will be at Memorial Park Cemetery of Louisville.

Dyanne was born on January 23, 1947, in Neshoba County to Victor and Jewell Fulton. She graduated from Neshoba Central High in 1964, attended East Central Junior College in 1965, and graduated from Mississippi State University in 1968 with a bachelor’s degree in business education. In the fall of 1968, she began her forty-three year career with the State Department of Human Services as a case worker in Attala County; in 2011, she retired as a program investigator in Winston County. Until failing health hindered her attendance, Dyanne was an active member of First Baptist Church of Louisville. For several years, she served as a Sunday School Teacher to teenage girls and later to adult ladies’ group, but her greatest love was working with the church and associational Bible Drills for more than twenty-five years.

She was a member of several Bible study groups including the Bible Study Precepts Class at Good Hope Baptist Church and Truth Bible Study at First Baptist Church. Despite her health problems and Covid-19 restrictions, she remained active with her close friends in 2020, creating masks and bibs at her dining room table. She strongly supported the missionary efforts of Samaritan’s Purse Ministries and Disciple Makers Multiplied (DM2).

Dyanne enjoyed shopping with her sisters, traveling to foreign counties, and being a good listener to others that needed to voice their problems and concerns. The laughs and good times she shared at game nights with all of her friends was a highlight of her later years. She also enjoyed her frequent outings traveling to Starkville, Ackerman, Philadelphia and French Camp to eat with her friends as well as her Birthday Group meetings.

Dyanne is survived by her husband of 54 years, Ferrell Rigby of Louisville; two sons, Brett Farrell of Union, Mississippi and Bradford Lee of Cordele, Georgia. Her greatest pleasure was following the pursuits of grandson, Parker Fulton, his wife Natalie Rae, and granddaughter Ansley Suzanne. She was affectionately called “Gran” by Parker, Natalie and Ansley, who never found her without the best instructions for them. She is survived by siblings; Shirley Faye Cumberland (Ray) of Pearl, Mississippi, James Keith Fulton (Mary Ann) of Philadelphia, Mississippi, and Linda Charlene Thompson (Gary) of Huntsville, Alabama. She also leaves a host of nieces and nephews.

The Pallbearers will be her grandson Parker Rigby, and her nephews: Michael Fulton, Mitchell Fulton, Marty Fulton, Phil Cumberland, and Chris Thompson.

Memorials may be given to Disciple Makers Multiplied (DM2), P.0. Box 1614, Livingston, Texas and First Baptist Church of Louisville. Memorials and condolences may be shared with family by signing the guest register at porterfuneralhome.net

Marcia P. Davis Collins

Marcia P. Collins, 72, passed away on Thursday, February 25, 2021, at North Mississippi Medical Center, in Tupelo, MS. She was born February 21, 1949, in Ackerman, Mississippi, to C.A. and Roxie(Woods) Davis.

Graveside services will be held on Sunday, February 28, 2021, 2:00 P.M., at Old Lebanon Presbyterian Cemetery with Rev. Rob Faulk officiating. (IN CASE OF INCLEMENT WEATHER: Graveside Funeral Service will be held under front portico of Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS) Coleman Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Marcia is survived by 2 sons, Lee(Melissa) Collins of Weir, MS, Michael(Candice) Collins of Ackerman, MS; 2 daughters, Samantha(Matthew) Goza of Louisville, MS, Laci Collins of Weir, MS; 4 brothers, Bobby(Anita) Davis of Ackerman, MS, Terry(Sharon) Davis of Weir, MS, Jacky(Kathy) Davis of Harvest, AL, Jimmy(Linda) Davis of Batesville, MS; 10 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren.

Marcia is preceded in death by her husband, Archie Collins, her parents, and 1 sister, Linda Wills.

Memorials may be made to UMMC Division of Nephrology. 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216.

Helen Rebecca Gallop

Helen Rebecca Gallop, 72, passed away on Thursday, February 25, 2021, at her residence, in Ackerman, MS. She was born April 27, 1948, in West Point, Mississippi, to Gilbert and Willene(Ray) Gilbert. She was a retired Licensed Practical Nurse.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

Ms. Gallop is survived by 1 sister, Judy(Wade) Blaine of Ackerman, MS.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Shelton, and her parents.

Jack Cousins

Jack Earl Cousins, 62, passed away on Thursday, February 18, 2021 at Winston Medical Center Nursing Home. Interment was held in Good Hope Cemetery in Louisville, Mississippi.

Jack was born June 2, 1958, to Harry and Sarah Suttle Cousins.

Jack is survived by his sister Marilyn A. Cousins of Louisville, Mississippi and his uncle Robert Earl Suttle of Oklahoma. He also leaves behind several cousins. Gary was preceded in death by his parents.

Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.

Mary Frances Wilson

Mary Frances Wilson, 66, passed away on Thursday, February 18, 2021, at Kindred Hospital in Sugar Land, Texas. Graveside services will be 12 p.m. Saturday, February 27 at Harmony Baptist Church in Louisville, Mississippi. Interment will immediately follow the service in Harmony Baptist Church Cemetery.

Mary was born May 15, 1954, to Osler and Effie Haggard Stevenson in Louisville. She was a member of South Louisville Baptist Church. Mary retired from the Louisville Municipal School District as a Special Education teacher. She felt her “calling” to be a special education teacher while she was in the seventh grade herself. Mary enjoyed fishing and camping and working in her flower beds in the yard. She also was an avid Mississippi State fan.

Mary is survived by her husband of 45 years Lowell Wilson of Louisville. She is also survived by her niece Wendy Cornett and her nephew Clint (Kelly) Cornett as well as many cousins and friends. Mary was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Patricia Holt.

Memorials in honor of Mary may be given to Harmony Baptist Church Cemetery,
c/o David Holder, 11755 Highway 397, Louisville, MS 39339 or to the Baptist Children's Village, P. O. Box 27, Clinton, MS 39060-0027.

Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 N. Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.

Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.

 

Frank Sanders

Mr. Frank Allen Sanders, 68, passed away on Thursday, February 25, 2021, at his home in Louisville, MS. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Sanders was born December 8, 1952, in Macon, MS to Tyson Sanders and Mary Triplett Sanders. He was retired from Boral Brick where he was a maintenance supervisor, and he was a member of Mashulaville Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife, Cathy McDavid Sanders of Louisville, MS; a daughter, Mary Sanders Orr of Union, MS; two sons, Gabe (Samantha) Sanders of Hernando, MS and Michael (Brandi) Sanders of Louisville, MS; three grandchildren, Madison Orr (Jacob) Norris, Hunter Sanders, and Camden Sanders; and three great grandchildren.

 

Diana Jones

Diana Jones, 69, of Louisville, Mississippi, passed on Monday, Feb. 15, 2021, at the Oktibbeha County Hospital, Starkville, MS. Graveside service will be Sunday, Feb. 28, 2021, at 11 a.m., from Rockport United Methodist Church Cemetery, Louisville, MS. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Sadie Carter

Sadie Carter, 94, of Louisville, MS., passed on Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2021, at the Winston County Medical Center, Louisville, MS. Funeral Service will be Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021, at 11 a.m., from Beck Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Church Cemetery, Louisville, MS., Visitation will be Thursday, from 9:30 a.m., until Funeral Service time. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Timothy E. Smith

Timothy Edward “Tim” Smith, 36, passed away on Wednesday, February 24, 2021, at Winston Medical Center in Louisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Monday, March 1 in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Paul Blanchard officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville. Interment will immediately follow the service in Bevill Hill Cemetery.

Tim was born November 30, 1984, to Marvin and Rosie White Smith in Eupora, Mississippi. He was a member of Gum Branch Baptist Church. Tim loved being outdoors and any activities in which he could be involved outside.

Tim is survived by his mother Rosie Smith and his grandmother Joyce Haimes both of Louisville. He is also survived by five siblings: Debbie Buford of Starkville, Mississippi, Dennis (Shelia) Smith of Olive Branch, Mississippi, Kawanna (Doug) Parsons of Rochester, Indiana, Melissa Smith of Ackerman, Mississippi, and Bryan (Janette) Smith of Macon, Mississippi. Tim also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews and friends. Tim was preceded in death by his father Marvin Smith, his grandfather Johnny Haimes, and two brothers Wayne and Donald Smith.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials in honor of Tim be given to Nowell-Massey Funeral Home to help defray funeral expenses.

Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 N. Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.

Ronald "Ron" Ragan

Ronald Ragan, 71, passed away on Monday, February 22, 2021, at Merit Health—River Oaks in Flowood, Mississippi. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, February 25 at First Apostolic Church of Louisville with Rev. Mark Copeland and Rev. Antoine Stokes officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville. Interment will immediately follow the service in Sun Rise Cemetery in Noxapater, Mississippi, with Rev. Glynn Barker officiating.

Ronald was born to Orville and Lucille Tucker Ragan on February 6, 1950, in Akron, Ohio. He was a devoted Christian and a member of the First Apostolic Church of Louisville. During his career, he worked for the Alabama Department of Transportation Highway Department. Ronald was an avid sports fan especially supportive of Alabama sports programs. He loved to sing, enjoyed having a good time with family and friends, and had a very outgoing personality—never meeting a stranger. He was a loving, kind man who particularly enjoyed children and animals.

Ronald is survived by his son Jason Ragan and wife Tracy of Noxapater. One of his greatest joys was being “Papa” to his grandson Nathan Ragan. He is also survived by his siblings: Celestine Bruce of Hurst, Texas, Roger D. (Cindi) Ragan of Pell City, Alabama, Pamela S. Privetti of Talmadge, Ohio, and Karen Furlong of Wetumpka, Alabama. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Serving as pallbearers are Jason Ragan, Byron Foster, Eugene Hemphill, Drew Jones, William Shepheard, and Danny Sullivan. Memorials in honor of Ronald may be given to Sun Rise Cemetery, Noxapater, MS.

Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 N. Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.

Ouida Mitchell Ward

Ouida Ward, 92, passed away on February 21, 2021, at Winston Medical Center Nursing Home in Louisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, February 24 in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jeff Holland, Rev. Junior Davis, and Bobby Shields officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 10 a.m. until service time at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville. Interment will immediately follow the service in Memorial Cemetery.

Ouida, the only child born to A. C. and Zelma Sanders Mitchell, arrived on July 2, 1928. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Louisville. Ouida was a graduate of Louisville High School and was a member of the School Debate Team that won many honors at the state level of competition. She began her working career at Mineola’s Jewelry Store in Louisville. Soon afterwards she worked for Walter Fuller Baker’s Construction Company. Later Ouida retired from her 38-year career at the Coca Cola Bottling Company working in both the Louisville and Starkville locations. She loved animals especially her dogs. She was an excellent seamstress, even though she had vision in only one eye due to a childhood incident. Ouida enjoyed making bedding, window treatments, clothing, and pillows with showmanship of fine detail. Ouida also was a collector of dishes and she enjoyed keeping newspaper clippings of local events that were of interest to her. She was very creative and loved to travel in the United States.

Ouida is survived by two first cousins: Joan Agent of Louisville, Mississippi, and Jean King of Madison, Mississippi, as well as a host of other cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years Norris D. Ward and her parents.

Memorials in honor of Ouida may be given to First Baptist Church, P. O. Box 547, Louisville, MS 39339.

Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 N. Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.

Alvin D. “Al” Montgomery, Sr.

Alvin Delay "Al" Montgomery, Sr. of Weir passed away in the Choctaw County Medical Center on February 19, 2021. He was 85 years old.

Al was born July 29, 1935 in Ackerman, Mississippi to Hilry "Buddy" and Esther Watson Montgomery of Ackerman. He was a 1955 graduate of Ackerman High School, and a veteran of both the Mississippi and South Carolina National Guard. Al married the love of his life, Bonnie Power Montgomery on June 21, 1959 and they spent 57 years together building a family, serving their neighbors, and establishing a legacy of love, strength, and faith throughout the community of Weir and Choctaw County.

Al began his career in the printing business, and in the early 1960's he became the first State Farm Insurance Agent in Starkville, MS. He took over the operation of C.O. Power and Sons Hardware Store in Weir for a number of years, and then worked at Henson Oil Company and Mills Oil Company as a bulk fuel distributor. He also worked in the Veteran's Administration for a number of years.

A member and elder of Weir Presbyterian Church, Al had a heart for God and a strong faith. He served his community whenever needed. He was a former mayor of the Town of Weir, and a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Weir Volunteer Fire Department. Al, or "Pop", loved his family fiercely. He enjoyed spending his time with Bonnie and their boys. He also loved the grandchildren and was often seen driving to school plays, basketball and soccer games, church solos, and other activities.

Al was preceded in death by his wife Bonnie Power "Honey" Montgomery, his parents, and his sisters Mavis "Jack" Montgomery (Joe) Houston of Aberdeen, MS, and Audrey Montgomery of Ackerman. He is survived by his son Alvin Delay "Monty" Montgomery, Jr. (Susan) and granddaughter Anna Leigh Montgomery of Madison, MS; Meredith Skelton (Drew) Malloy of Fredrick, Maryland , Leslie Skelton (Ed) Musshafen of Madison, MS; his son Steve (Sabrina) Montgomery and grandchildren Ben and Laci Jo Montgomery of the Chester Community in Choctaw County, four great-grandchildren and his sister-in-law Carol (Steve) Wright of Weir. He is also survived by a large loving extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Al was especially cared for by Catherine Miller, Kinzley Daniels and Rudy Meaders.

Funeral services and burial were held on Wednesday, February 24 at Weir Presbyterian Church with Rev. Ann Houston Kelly and Rev. Wes Gillespie officiating. Pallbearers were Jimmy Oliver, Morris Belk, Joe Lynn Gant, Trey Gant, Dewitt Vowell, Gene McIntyre, Barry Kelley and Jeff Graff.

Memorials may be made to the Weir Presbyterian Church, c/o Jimmy Oliver, 3390 MS Hwy 12, Weir, Mississippi 39772.

Nicky D. Power

Nicky Dale Power, 61, passed away on Wednesday, February 17, 2021, at Baptist Memorial Hospital Golden Triangle, in Columbus, MS. He was born December 21, 1959, in Ackerman, Mississippi, to James Homer and Iva Jean(Ming)Power. Nicky was an Electrical Estimator.
Memorial services will be announced and held at a later date.

Nicky is survived by his wife Ann(Lee)Power; 2 sons, Roy(Angie)Thomas, II, of Mathiston, MS, and Samuel Kelly(Dawn)Manning of Germantown, TN; 1 sister, Lori(David) Kerr of Weir, MS; 4 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild.

Nicky is preceded in death by his parents and 1 daughter, Melinda McCleer.

Memorials may be made to West Point/Clay County Animal Shelter, 5122 Old Tibbee Rd., West Point, MS 39773.

Jimmy Sanders

Jimmy Glenn Sanders of Starkville, MS, passed away Saturday, February 20, 2021, at Oktibbeha County Hospital in Starkville, MS. Jimmy was born December 5, 1944, in Birmingham, AL, to C.J. and Geneva(Buckner) Sanders. He was 76 years old, and was a retired Lieutenant with the Memphis, TN Fire Department.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, February 25, 2021, 1:30 P.M. at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery near Bradley, MS, with Rev. Mike Sanders officiating. Family requests that attendees adhere to Covid guidelines by wearing masks and social distancing. Coleman Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

Jimmy is survived by his wife Linda(Elam) Sanders; 1 son, Charles "Chuck" Sanders of Memphis, TN; 1 daughter, Suzanne(Brad) Creely of Fulton, MS; 1 brother Charles R.(Susie) Sanders of Starkville, MS; 4 grandchildren, Lainey and Chase Sanders both of Memphis, TN, Zackery Creely of Starkville, MS, Alissa Creely of Fulton, MS; and 1 great-grandchild, Ryleigh Sanders of Memphis, TN.

Jimmy is preceded in death by his parents, and 1 sister, Ginger Barton.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church.

Lemoyne Young

Lemoyne Young, 81, of Noxapater, Mississippi, passed on Tuesday, February 16, 2021, at the Neshoba General Hospital, Philadelphia, Mississippi. Funeral Service will be Friday, February 26, 2021, at 11 a.m., from Beck Funeral Home. Visitation will be Thursday, from 3 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Mount Pleasant#2 Church Cemetery, Noxapater, Mississippi. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Evelyn Johnson

Mildred Evelyn Johnson, age 71, passed away on Saturday, February 20, 2021, at Merit Health Rankin in Brandon, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, February 22, in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Charles Rook officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 10 a.m. until service time at Nowell Massey Funeral Home in Louisville, Mississippi. Interment will immediately follow in Murphy Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.

Evelyn was born in Winston County on February 15, 1950, to James Henry and Betty Bouchillon Johnson. She is survived by her mother Betty Johnson of Louisville. Evelyn is also survived by her sister Nez Loyd, her brother Johnny D. Johnson and wife Arlene all of Louisville; and her sister-in-law Susan Partridge Johnson of Macon, Georgia; as well as her nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father James Henry Johnson and her brother Clyde Johnson.

Memorial contributions in honor of Evelyn may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org/donate or by mail 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Services are under the direction of Nowell Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.

Guy Dwayne Wraggs

Guy Dwayne Wraggs, 61, of Louisville, Mississippi, passed on Tuesday, February 16, 2021, at his home. Graveside Service will be Saturday, February 27, 2021, at the Antioch Church Cemetery, Louisville, Mississippi. Visitation will be Friday, February 26, 2021 from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Gary J. Cheatham

 Gary Jack Cheatham, 68, passed away on Thursday, February 18, 2021 at Winston Medical Center. There will be a memorial service held at a later date.

Gary was born December 28, 1952, to Travis and Peggy Joyce Smith Cheatham.

Gary is survived by his wife Joanne Rogers Cheatham and his son Chad Cheatham of Louisville, Mississippi. He also leaves behind his sister Cheryl Cheatham Breckenridge of Preston, Mississippi. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Lamar Cheatham, and his sister Deborah Cheatham Jarriel.

Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.

Larry Maurice Eiland

Larry Maurice Eiland, 50, of Louisville, Mississippi, passed on Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021, at his home. Funeral Service will be Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2021, at 11 a.m., from Beck Funeral Home Chapel. Livestreaming Service will begin at 10:50 a.m. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Harold B. Wilcher

Funeral services for Harold B. Wilcher were held Friday, February 12, 2021 at 1 p.m. from McClain-Hays Chapel with Bro. Kyle Wooten and Bro. Dudley Winstead officiating. Burial was in Wilcher Cemetery with Full Military Honors. Visitation was held Friday, February 12, 2021 from 12 noon until service time. McClain-Hays in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Wilcher, 68, of Edinburg, MS, died Monday, February 8, 2021.

He was a native and lifelong resident of Edinburg MS and a 1970 graduate of Edinburg High School. He served in the MS Air National Guard 183rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron as a Chief Master Sgt. Until he retired in 2011 with 40 plus years of service. He was an avid outdoorsman and had a love for music and singing. Mr. Wilcher was a member of New County Line Baptist Church where he served as a deacon for many years.

Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Deborah Ray Wilcher of Edinburg; daughter, Melanie Wilcher Griffin (Danny) of Louisville; son, Michael Wilcher (Stephanie) of Edinburg; grandchildren, Madison and Mallory Wilcher; brothers, Howard Wilcher (Shellie) of Edinburg, Dennis Wilcher (Beccy) of Edinburg; a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mr. Wilcher was preceded in death by his parents, Troy (Tut) and Rosa Wilcher.

Pallbearers are Steve Adams, Ricky Adcock, Ben Adams, Steve Stone, Ron Fitzhugh and Joseph Fitzhugh. Honorary pallbearers are members of the Mississippi Air National Guard.

Jim Wood Burt, Jr.

Jim W. Burt was born on October 2, 1928, and left this world for his final heavenly resting place on February 15, 2021. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Thursday, February 18 in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bobby Hardy and Kiel Higginbotham officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 1 p.m. until service time at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville.

Jim was born to Jim W. Burt, Sr. and Ethel Day Burt. He had 3 brothers and 3 sisters. Jim joined the military in 1946 so he would not have to work in the fields each day. He loved his career and served his country proudly in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years. The love of his life, Eva S. Morris Burt shared his military career with him, and they were blessed with 71 years of marriage.

After retiring from the Air Force, he and his family moved back to Noxapater. He enjoyed camping with lifelong friends, fishing, and gardening. He was a member of Noxapater Baptist Church where he also served as deacon for 22 years.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Eva Sue Morris Burt; two children, Teresa Burt Hardy (Bobby) and Tim Burt (Lori). He is also survived by one brother, Harry Burt (Pat). One of his greatest joys was being called “Paw” by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Grandchildren are Tiffany Bruton (Shawn), Tyler Smith, and Lara Burt Higginbotham (Kiel). Great-grandchildren are Kinsley and Riley Bruton, Taelor and Marley Smith, Carson and Brady Smith, Owen Holland, and Jett and Lake Higginbotham.

Jim was preceded in death by an infant son, his parents, Jim and Ethel Burt, his siblings; Russell Burt, Everett Burt, Carolyn Burt Kelley, Francis Burt Davis, and Shirley Burt Sharpe as well as a granddaughter, Briana Leigh Burt.

Serving as pallbearers are Chris Johnson, Sid Massey, Danny Mills, and Wes Stapp. Memorials can be made to Mt. Carmel Cemetery Fund, c/o Noxapater Baptist Church, P. O. Box 251, Noxapater, MS 39346.

Services are under the direction of Nowell Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowell-masseyfuneralhome.com.

Franklin D Hall

Franklin D Hall, 73, of Louisville, MS., passed on Friday, February 12, 2021, at the Veteran Hospital, Jackson, Mississippi. Funeral Service will be 11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 20, 2021, from Beck Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the New Prospect Church Cemetery, Louisville, MS. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangement. The Service will be Livestreamed, beginning at 10:50 a.m., on Saturday.

Mattie Bell Davis

Mrs. Mattie Bell Davis, 97, of Eupora, MS., passed on Thursday, February 11, 2021, at her Home. Graveside service will be Friday, Feb. 19, 2021, at 11 a.m., from Boyd Chapel Church Cemetery, Sturgis, Mississippi. Visitation will be Thursday, Feb. 18, 2021, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home in Louisville. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Bobbie Jean Moody

Mrs. Bobbie Jean Moody, 92, passed away on Monday, February 15, 2021, at the Winston County Nursing Home. A family memorial service will be held at 11:30 A.M. on Saturday, February 20th, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Rob Faulk officiating. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Moody was born March 20, 1928, in Noxapater, MS, to Hattie and Clark Johnson. She was a graduate of Noxapater High School, from East Central Junior College, and after attending Mississippi State University, she taught Business Education in Winston County Schools. In 1964, she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education at Mississippi state University, as well as a Master of Education Degree in Reading (K-12) and in 1976 completed at Education Specialist Degree in Elementary Education, In graduate school, she was a member of Phi Kappa Honor Society. Mrs. Moody taught all grades 1-8, and Remedial Reading Grades 7-12 in Winston County Schools, Noxubee County schools, and on the Choctaw Indian Reservation, Pearl River School, near Philadelphia. In addition to teaching children, she did Reading and Language Arts in-service programs for Mississippi Public Schools while working as a Field Staff Specialist for MESC, a federally funded program at MSU. When federal monies were cut off for MESC, she did Per Diem Reading and Language Arts Consultant work for Ginn Publishing Company in the southeastern states and taught off campus reading courses at MSU. Mrs. Moody taught second grade at Macon Elementary from 1964-1970. Returning to Noxubee County on November 1, 1986, she taught the last seven years at Reed Elementary to complete her retirement. She received the Excellence in Teaching award at Reed for the 1987-88. She and her husband were owners of Blon Harris Hardware. She was a faithful member of South Louisville Baptist Church, where she also taught Sunday school. She loved all the students she taught over the years and encouraged them to always strive to be their best. They, in turn, loved her and many stayed in contact with her for years after they were out of school. Along with her teaching career, she loved her flowers and gardening, and especially spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James K. Moody; her parents; and her siblings, Herbert Johnson, Otis Lee Snow, Pauline Gregory, Sarah Clark, Irene Hood, and Hazel McCullough.

She is survived by her son, Jimmy (Darlene) Moody; her daughter, Sherri (Gene) Reed, both of Louisville; five grandchildren, Kim Moody, David Moody, Heather (Ryan) Gilmer, Corie (Thomas) Bounds, and Cody (Taylor) Reed; and five great grandchildren, Wyatt Moody, Sam Gilmer, Sydney Gilmer, Taylor Bounds, and Georgia Kate Reed.

Pallbearers will be Cody Reed, David Moody, Thomas Bounds, Sam Gilmer, Ryan Gilmer, and Wyatt Moody.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Jerry Donald

Mr. Jerry Lavaughn Donald, Sr., 82, beloved and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather was promoted to heaven face to face with his Savior, Jesus Christ, on Saturday, February 13, 2021. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Saturday, February 20th, at First Baptist Church, with Dr. Heath Hillman officiating. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Jerry was born on March 17, 1938, in Louisville to Willis Edward and Willie Green Donald. He graduated from Louisville High School in 1956, and went on to Mississippi State University where he graduated with a degree in Industrial Management. In 1958, he began work at Taylor Machine Works and had the first computer system installed, initiated the first cost control of manufacturing, and became Vic-President of Manufacturing Production control, including inventory, cost and production controls. Jerry and his wife, Jeanette, bought out the downtown division of Taylor Machine Works in 1968, which became D & T Services and NAPA Automotive. He later added Ace Hardware. Jerry was a faithful and active member of First Baptist Church and was elected a deacon at the age of 25 and still holds the record for the youngest deacon to be elected at First Baptist Church. From there he served as chairman at times on many different committees, as Sunday School and Training Union leader, and taught Sunday School for over 50 years. Most importantly, he served with a wonderful pastor search committee as chairman and God led them to the right pastor/teacher for First Baptist Church. Jerry served in many civic and community positions. He served as president of the Winston County Chamber of Commerce, and was awarded the first Lifetime Achievement Award in 2003. He served as chairman of the Winston County Hospital Board, and the Louisville Utility board. As chairman of the Winston Academy board of directors, and he received an award at an MPSA meeting in Jackson as the longest standing private school board member in the state of Mississippi. He also served on the board of First United Bank and Bancorp South, chairman of the Rick Hughes Evangelistic board, and on the board of evangelist John Tierney’s Haiti missions.

Mr. Donald is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 62 ½ years, Jeanette Taylor Donald; two daughters, Deborah (Pete) Johnson and Cynthia (Hal) Nowell, all from Louisville; a daughter-in-law, Danielle Donald of San Juan Capistrano, CA; and his son, Jerry L. Donald, Jr, who went to heaven on March 29, 2014; his grandchildren, Jade Johnson (Stephen) Arnett, Miles Taylor Johnson, Mary Mackenzie Nowell, Darby Taylor Nowell, Hallie Turner Nowell, Neely Kate Nowell, and Sophia Ryan Donald; and a great grandson, Johnson Reed Arnett. Jerry set a wonderful, godly example for his wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandson all his life. He loved spending time with his family and loved taking the entire family to the beach every summer.

Pallbearers will be Miles Johnson, Stephen Arnett, Matthew Barrett, Jacob Prisock, Zack Roberson, and Joe Hallford.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church or French Camp Academy.

Zane Vanlandingham

Zane Vanlandingham, 79, passed away on Friday, February 12, 2021, at his residence, in Ackerman, MS. He was born June 17, 1941, in Ackerman, Mississippi, to Emmitt Grady and Delcie (Fulgham) Vanlandingham. Zane was a retired, self-employed appliance repairman.
Graveside services will be held on Saturday, February 13, 2021, 2:00 P.M., at Bethlehem Baptist Church cemetery. Coleman Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

Zane is survived by his wife, Mary(Andrews)Vanlandingham; 1 son, Zane Jr. "Cash"(Emily) Vanlandingham of Ackerman; MS, 3 daughters, Nicole Scott of Ackerman, MS, Donna(Ricky) Adams of Ackerman, MS, Sherry Woods of Ackerman, MS; 1 brother, Jimmy(Lilia) Vanlandingham of Reno, NV; 1 sister, Marlin Ogden of Sacramento, CA; 7 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren.

Zane is preceded in death by his parents; 3 sisters, Mary Gail Lovell, Keyland Tennyson, Bernice Vanlandingham; and 1 brother, Grady Lavay Vanlandingham.

Memorials may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, 3100 Samford Ave., Shreveport, LA, 71103.

Anders Lee Carter

Anders Lee Carter, 69, of Louisville, Mississippi, passed on Monday, February 8, 2021, at the Winston County Medical Center, Louisville, Mississippi. Funeral Service will be Monday, February 15, 2021, at 11 a.m., from Beck Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Church Cemetery, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Sunday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Sandra Ruth Ellis Grace

Sandra Ruth Grace, 75, passed away on Monday, February 08, 2021 at St. Dominic’s in Jackson, MS. Visitation will be Friday, February 12, 2021 at Raymond Rd. Baptist Church from 6:00 p.m.—8:00 p.m. and again Saturday, February 13, 2021 at Poplar Flat Baptist Church in Louisville, MS from 12:00 p.m. until the hour of the service at 1:00 p.m.

Mrs. Grace, the 4th of five sisters, was born to Leonard Ellis and Bonnie Taylor Ellis on June 23,1945 in Louisville, MS. A long-time resident of South Jackson and Byram, she had lived in Ridgeland for the past two years. Mrs. Grace was the co-owner and operator of Metro Painting. Sandra was a very dedicated person. She loved taking care of not only her grandchildren, but the children at Raymond Rd. Baptist Church where she was a member as well. She also enjoyed cooking.

She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Lavon Grace; sons, Michael (Pshone) Grace of Gluckstadt and Preston (Alisha) Grace of Byram; sisters, Margie Bell of Hattiesburg, Ellen Prisock of Madison, Glenda Baswell of Ackerman, and Connie Greer of Richton; and five grandchildren, Aubrey, Tatum, Lindi, Lexie, and Lacie Grace.

Online guestbook may be signed at chancellorfuneralhome.com.

Bobby E. Burdine

Bobby E. Burdine, 67, of Ackerman, passed away Wednesday, February 10, 2021, at Specialty Hospital in Meridian, MS due to complications of Covid-19. Bobby was born September 18, 1953 in Choctaw County, MS and was the son of Henry Burdine and Estelle (Wells) Burdine Lollar. On October 10, 2000, he married Jeanith White Burdine. Bobby lived his whole life in Choctaw County. He graduated from Weir High School in Weir, MS. Bobby graduated from Holmes Community College in Goodman, MS. Bobby had a successful heating and air conditioning business for over 25 years. In 2014, he was employed by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety. Bobby was mostly self-taught but began to start repairing, restoring and collecting antique clocks. He enjoyed this hobby up until his death.

​Bobby was a member of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors. He was a member of Enon Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Ackerman, MS. 

Left to carry on his legacy is his wife, Jeanith; his children, Joey (Kim) Burdine of Louisville, MS, Ronnie (Amy) Burdine of Ackerman, MS, Donnie Burdine of Orlando, FL, Andrew (Jade) Miller of Brandon, MS, Leslie (Blake) Collins of Brandon, MS and Steven (Amanda) Miller of Ackerman, MS; his grandchildren Issac Burdine, Tyson Burdine, Kenzi Burdine, Bre Burdine, Hailey McAdory, Joshua McAdory, Kailey Burdine, Eli Burdine, Liam Miller, Lexi Collins, Hayden Collins, Miles Collins, Kaylan Collins, Jacob Miller and Tate Miller; his siblings, French Henry (Linda) Burdine of Brookland, MS, Sarah Hodges of Gluckstadt, MS, Mary Hood, Jean (Ned) Abbott and Nina Threet of Ackerman, MS, Georgia (Lewis) Childress of Flora, MS and a sister-in-law Winnie Burdine of Metairie, LA. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Phillip Burdine of Metairie, LA.

​A graveside service will be held on Sunday, February 14, 2021 at 2:00 pm at Salem Independent Methodist Church Cemetery with Brother Jerry Lawson officiating. Coleman Funeral Home of Ackerman is in charge of the service and arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to: Enon CP Church PO Box 294 Ackerman, MS 39735

Vivian Cassiemae Ashford

Vivian Cassiemae Ashford, 88, of Ackerman, Mississippi, passed on Monday, Feb. 8, 2021, at her home. Graveside service will be Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021, at 2 p.m., from Pilgrim Rest Cemetery(Tyler-McMullen Memorial). Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home in Louisville. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Raymond Carter

Raymond Carter, 83, of Louisville, Mississippi, passed away on Friday, January 29, 2021, at his home. A Memorial Service will be Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at 1 p.m., from the Funeral Home. The Service will be livestreaming. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Charles Reed

Mr. Charles Reed, Jr., 85, of Noxapater, passed away on Monday, February 8, 2021, at Anderson Regional Medical Center in Meridian, MS. Funeral services will be at 2:00 P.M. on Thursday, February 11th, at First Apostolic Church in Louisville, with Rev. Glynn Barker and Rev. Charles Reed officiating. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Porter Funeral Home. Interment will be in Noxapater Methodist Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Charles was born December 10, 1935, in Dekalb, MS, to Flora and Charlie Reed. He was a graduate of Noxapater High School, and retired from Canadian National Railroad. He was a member of First Apostolic Church in Louisville. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary Ann Reed; a son David Reed; and a daughter, Debra Lynn Reed.

He is survived by two sons, Rev. Charles (Amanda) Reed of Batesville, MS; and Daniel Reed of Noxapater; three sisters, Mildred Goodin and Patsy Webb, both of Noxapater, and Martha (Ricky) McArthur of Louisville; a brother, David (Mary) Reed of Noxapater; two grandchildren, William Thomas Reed and Mary Frances Barnes; and two great grandchildren, Nora Barnes and Luke Charles Reed; and his dear friend, Lois Ellis.

Pallbearers will be Michael Reed, Cole Reed, Chris McArthur, Jason McArthur, Luke Goodin, and John Wright.

Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.

Lynne Vickers Eskridge

Mrs. Lynne Vickers Eskridge, 80, passed away on Saturday, February 6, 2021, at the home in Hoover, AL. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, February 10th, at First Baptist Church in Louisville, with Rev. Mike Childs officiating. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Eskridge was born December 19, 1940, in Louisville, MS, the only child of Edward Lee and Mary Beatrice Ellis Vickers. Lynne became a Christian at the age of six, and was reared in a wonderful Christian home where all extracurricular activities centered around her church. Lynne excelled at music at an early age, and played piano and organ for several churches in Winston County. In 1958, she married Bobby Eskridge, her best friend and the love of her life. Bobby’s work took them to Alabama, Louisiana, back to Louisville, and in 1978, to Birmingham, AL. There Lynne was blessed to use her musical ability and played for many churches in the Birmingham area. Lynne was employed in the UAB School of Medicine for over 50 years, and served as administrator of the UAB Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center for 22 years.

She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Bobby Gene Eskridge of Hoover, AL; her children, Rob (Sheila) Eskridge of Triangle, VA; John (Frances) Eskridge of South Mills, NC; and Sharron (Tim) Stevens of Vestavia, AL; and her beloved grandchildren, Brandon Murphy, Natalie Murphy, Lauren (Jack) Gutschlag, Nathan Eskridge, Kayla Eskridge, and Emily Eskridge.

Pallbearers will be Paul Vickers, James Marshall Vickers, Bob Allman, Breck Allman, Jay Allman, and Keith Blanton.

Memorials may be made to UAB Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center, Birmingham, AL, www.uab.edu/medicine/sicklecell/.

 

Mary Clytee Manning

Funeral services for Mrs. Mary Clytee Manning will be held Monday, February 8, 2021 at 1 p.m. from McClain-Hays Funeral Home with Dr. Jon Martin officiating. Burial will follow in Mars Hill Cemetery in Winston County. Visitation will be held Monday, February 8, 2021 from 10 a.m. until service time at McClain-Hays Funeral Home. McClain-Hays Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Manning, 87, of Philadelphia, died Friday, February 5, 2021.

She was a native of Winston County and a longtime resident of Philadelphia, MS. She formerly owned Jack & Jill Daycare and later worked as a housekeeper at Philadelphia Middle School until her retirement. Mrs. Manning was a member of North Calvery Baptist Church.

Survivors include daughter, Sandra Martin (Ricky) of Philadelphia; son, Rayford Manning, Jr. (Tammy) of Noxapater; grandchildren, Craig, Patrick and Jon Martin, Rayford III, Bruce and Andrew Manning; great-grandchildren, Meg, Will , Seth , Ty, Anna Kay, Riley and Mary Hannah Martin, Rafe, Caroline, Julia Kate, Lena and Owen Manning ; siblings, Jerry Drury, Douglas Drury, Linda Fortune, Mavis Smith and Sherry Clay.

Mrs. Manning was preceded in death by her husband, Rayford Manning, Sr.; parents, Henry and Nona Drury; granddaughter, Elizabeth Manning; great-granddaughter, Faith Martin; siblings, Bernice Sisson, Joe Mack Drury, Travis Drury, Patsy Drury, Shirley Drury and Infant Janice Drury .

Pallbearers are grandsons, Dr. Craig Martin, Patrick Martin, Dr. Jon Martin, Rayford Manning, III, Bruce Manning, Andrew Manning.

Honorary Pallbearers are great-grandsons, Will Martin, Riley Martin, Ty Martin, Seth Martin, Rafe Manning, Owen Manning.

Doris D. Thomas

Doris Dean Thomas, 82, passed away on Sunday, February 7, 2021, at Oktibbeha County Hospital in Starkville, Mississippi. A private family service will be held on Thursday, February 11 in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Jerry Allen officiating. Interment will immediately follow the service in Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery in Oktibbeha County. Please follow Covid-19 precautions.

Doris was born July 15, 1938, to Albert and Ruby Dawkins. She was member of New Zion Baptist Church of Weir, Mississippi. Doris enjoyed shopping especially for clothes, shoes, and jewelry; traveling, and watching movies. She also enjoyed gardening as long as her health permitted.

Doris is survived by her daughter Teresa Moore of Starkville, Leonard Harold Thomas, Jr. and wife Christi of Harrison, Arkansas, and Johnny Wayne Thomas also of Starkville. One of her greatest joys was being “Grandma” to her three granddaughters: Kaitlin (Will) Evans,Olivia Thomas, and Lisa (Henryk) Scheibner as well as her four great-grandsons: Brantley Evans, Blake Evans, Rex Thomas, and Leo Scheibner. She is also survived by three brothers Wayne Dawkins, Carroll Dawkins, and Calvin Dawkins and a host of nieces and nephews. Doris was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers Marvin, Leon and Ozell Dawkins, and her half-sister Myrtle Sides.

Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.

Max Wayne Vickers

Max Vickers passed Saturday, February 6th. A resident of Sturgis, MS. He was born in Morgantown April 6, 1931. Born to Moody and Annie Lois Vickers. He served his country in the army fifth division as a Sgt machine gunner from 1951-1952 during the Korean War. He received the purple heart medal in addition to many other medals upon discharge. In 1955, he married Joyce Clark from Louisville, MS. They were happily married for 65 years. 

He is survived by three children. Georgia (Gully) Warren, Bo (Kim) Vickers, Kim (Dawn) Vickers all of Sturgis, MS. Fourteen grandchildren. Misty Hunt, Justin Pritchard, Colby (Katherine) Vickers, Curt (Eden) Vickers, Neshay (Blake) Daniels, Tia (Daniel) Parker, Larkin (Jared) Daniels, Kimberlin (Bryse) Christopher, Trystun Vickers, Sackett Vickers, Nashlynn Vickers. Twenty-two great grandchildren. Kaden (Megan) Hunt, Kohen Hunt, Sage Pritchard, Zander Warren, Sheyenne Warren, Janet Warren, Hank Vickers, Hagen Vickers, Ayden Hester, Ryder Bo Vickers, Gracelynn Vickers, Kipland Vickers, Everly Vickers, Coltland Vickers, Brantland Vickers, Blakeley Daniels, Knox Daniels, Griffin Daniels, Fletcher Daniels, Ellis Parker, Anderson Christopher, Mary Rivers Daniels (due May 2021).

Max retired after a successful career in farming. He spent much of his time in his overalls, hunting, riding the four-wheeler, taking care of animals, telling many stories, and spending time with his family and his "sweetie pie". Max was known for his ability to know when people needed help. Max touched the lives of the people around him with his contagious smile and humorous jokes. Always loved and never forgotten.

Max Timothy “Tim” Avant

Max Timothy “Tim” Avant, age 61, was born on April 30, 1959, and passed away on February 2, 2021. Tim’s passion was his love for music and band. He loved each and every student he taught. While attending MSU, Tim was drum major for “The Famous Maroon Band” as well as being their Auxiliary Coordinator for the past 5 years.

He taught in the Mississippi Public School Systems for 26 years and retired as Director of Bands from the Louisville School District in 2014. His teaching career began in McComb, followed by stops at Southwest MS Community College, Kosciusko, Amory, West Point and Stone County. Having taught on all academic levels from kindergarten to college, his primary focus was middle school and high school band. His groups consistently received superior ratings in marching, concert and sight-reading.

After graduating from West Point High School in 1977, he received his Bachelor of Music Education and Master of Music Education degrees from Mississippi State University. He served on the staff of the Florida All-Star Marching Band, Mississippi Lions All-State Band in 1992 and was Visual Coordinator for the 2006 International Champion Mississippi Lions All-State Band. In 1994 and 1995, he served as Visual Coordinator for Itawamba Community College’s WGI Southern Regional Finalist Indoor Color Guard. Tim was a member of the National Band Association, Mississippi Bandmasters Association and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. He served as an officer for the Northeast Mississippi Jr. High Band Directors Association, a former member of the Gulf Coast Band Directors and East Mississippi Band Directors Association. He adjudicated marching band, color guard and drum major throughout the Southeastern United States.

Tim is survived by his brother, Clint Avant and wife, Jennifer of West Point; sisters, Tina Avant of West Point and Lynn Nance and husband, Delynn of Caledonia; nieces, Stephanie Smith, Megan Pennington (Colby); nephews, Zack Avant (Leah) and Clay Nance (Nikki) and a host of great nieces and nephews.
Tim was preceded in death by his parents, Max and Peggy Avant.

A graveside Celebration of Life Service will be held Monday, February 8, 2021 at 2:00pm from Odd Fellows Cemetery, Starkville, MS. The Famous Maroon Band will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Robin Gregory

Graveside Services will be held for Robin Gregory on Thursday, February 4, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. from the Vernon Assembly of God Cemetery in Nanih Waiya with Rev. Scott Boatner officiating. Visitation will be held at McClain-Hays Funeral Home from 11:00 a.m. until time of departure. McClain-Hays Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Ms. Gregory, 63, of Philadelphia, died Tuesday, February 2, 2021.

She was a native and longtime resident of Philadelphia and a resident of Nanih Waiya for several years. She worked as a nurse at Winston Medical Center. Ms. Gregory attended West Philadelphia Baptist Church.

Survivors include daughter, Ragan Coggins (Brad) of Guntown; sons, Johnnie Gregory (Marianne) and Jessie Gregory (Heather), both of Nanih Waiya; two grandchildren, Gray and Mara Coggins; sister, Brenda Hardy of Philadelphia; numerous cousins, extended family and friends.

Ms. Gregory was preceded in death by parents, Junior and Bobbie Jean Hardy; infant son, Toby Wade Gregory; husband, Gerald Gregory; and special cousin, Billy Hardy.

Henry Lee Micou

Henry Lee Micou, 94, of Louisville, Mississippi, passed on Monday, February, 1, 2021, at his home. A Joint Graveside service with his Wife will be Friday, Feb. 5, 2021, at 1 p.m., from Pleasant Grove Memorial Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Sophie Lee Micou

Sophie Lee Micou, 86, of Louisville, Mississippi, passed on Saturday, January 30, 2021, at her home. A Joint Graveside service with her husband, will be Friday, Feb. 5, 2021, at 1 p.m., from Pleasant Grove Memorial Church Cemetery, Louisville, MS., Visitation will be Thursday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Jureline Love

Jureline Love, 80, of Louisville, Mississippi, passed on Wednesday, January 27, 2021, at the Oktibbeha County Medical Center, Starkville, MS. Graveside service will be Saturday, Feb. 6, 2021, at 11 a.m., from Ruth Cemetery, Macon, MS. Visitation will be Friday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.