Minnie Mae Miller Triplett

Ms. Minnie Mae Miller Triplett, 84,  passed away on August 28, 2021. Visitation will be held Friday, September 3, 2021 from 1:00 P.M.-4:00 P.M. at Taylor Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, September 4, 2021 at 1:00 P.M. from Taylor Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in New Zion M.B. Church Cemetery.

James Carson Ward

James Carson Ward died at home Saturday, August 28, 2021, after a short illness. James, better known as "Scoot" by his family and friends, was born in Louisville, Mississippi, on January 29, 1936, to Otha and Hilda Ward. James, the oldest of ten children, was a graduate of Louisville High School, and he proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps. In 1958, he married Carolyn Holdiness, also of Louisville, Mississippi. James was a welder by trade, and he retired from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Memphis, Tennessee.

James was an avid reader, and he also loved history. He was a caring and loving husband and a wonderful father and grandfather.
James is survived by his wife, Carolyn, son, David, daughter-in-law, Kathy, granddaughter, Rebecca, and grandson, Matthew; sisters: Gloria Joiner, Martha Nabors, Mary Sanders, Nancy (Billy) Quinn, and Tina Ward; his brother, Richard (Iza) Ward, and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Otha and Hilda Ward, sister, Edith Ann Kagel, sister, Rebecca Burgess, and brother, Charles Ward.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, September 2, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. in the afternoon at Chapel Hill Independent Methodist Church located at 134 CR 944, Glen, MS 38846.

In lieu of flowers, memorials for James Ward may be given to the Chapel Hill Independent Methodist Church’s Building Fund. Ludlam Funeral Home in Iuka, MS is entrusted with the arrangements. You may leave online condolences to the family at www.ludlamfuneralhome.com

Marsha Busby Ellington

Marsha Busby Ellington passed away on Wednesday, August 25, 2021, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Eupora. Marsha was born May 17, 1956, in Starkville, MS, to Jimmy Steve and Juanita "Nita" Ford Busby. She was 65 years old and a member of Bethany Baptist Church in Reform, MS.

Memorial graveside funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 4, 2021, at 6:00 p.m., at Antioch Community Church Cemetery near Ackerman, MS. Rev. Bill Hutto will officiate. Coleman Funeral Home of Ackerman, MS is in charge of all arrangements.

Marsha is survived by her son Lee Ellington (Leigh) of Ackerman, MS, daughter, Tanya Satterfield (Scott Cheshier) of Oxford, MS, sister, Pamela B. King of Ackerman, MS and two grandchildren, Devan Ellington and Presley Satterfield.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jimmy Steve and Nita Ford Busby.

Memorials may be made to the Antioch Community Church Cemetery Fund.

Jimmy Alexander

Jimmy Sebron Alexander, Sr., age 87, passed away on Tuesday, August 31, 2021, at his residence in Louisville, Mississippi. Visitation will be Thursday, September 2 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Friday, September 3 in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Tim McDill officiating. Interment will immediately follow in Dry Creek Cemetery in Kemper County.

Jimmy was born May 15, 1934, to Curtis and Annie Mae Green Alexander in Kemper County, Mississippi. He was a member of Evergreen Baptist Church. Jimmy began his career of metal building construction with Ceco Building Systems in Columbus, Mississippi, and retired as a foreman with King Metal Buildings in Louisville. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed rabbit hunting, fishing, and farming—whether it was caring for his fruit orchard, vegetable gardens, or catawba worms. Jimmy was known in Winston County and the surrounding area as the “Pea Shelling Man” because after his retirement he purchased pea shellers and shelled many bushels of vegetables for others. He also enjoyed cooking the fish he caught and hosting a fish fry either for his family and friends or for the youth at church.

Jimmy is survived by his wife of almost 59 years Callie Hooks Alexander of Louisville, and his children: Nancy Berry and husband Richard of Lucedale, Mississippi, Robin Jones and husband Keith, Michelle McDill and husband Tim, and Jimmy “Bubby” Alexander, Jr. all of Louisville. One of his greatest joys is being “Pa Jim” to his 10 grandchildren: Michael (Mary) Foster, David (Vanessa) Elliott, Patsy Rogers, Adam McDill, Kyle (Kaci) McDill, Hope McDill, Christi (Jason) Richmond, Candace Jones, Trey (Kim) McDill, and Jessica McDill, as well as his 15 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Faye Ballard and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. Jimmy is preceded in death by his daughter Sharon Southern, his parents, and his siblings: Janice Crocker, Parry Lee McDonald, James Alexander, Louis Alexander, Van Alexander, and Cleo Alexander.

Serving as pallbearers are David Elliott, Michael Foster, Adam McDill, Trey McDill, Zachary McDill, and Coty Stokes who is serving for Kyle McDill. Memorial donations in honor of Jimmy may be given to the American Diabetes Association online at diabetes.org/donate.

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.

Gary Alan Clark

Gary Alan Clark passed away at the age of 64 on Monday, August 30, 2021, at his residence in Louisville, Mississippi. Visitation will be Wednesday, September 1 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Thursday, September 2 in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Becky Smith officiating. Interment will immediately follow in Rural Hill Cemetery.

Gary was born February 21, 1957, to Benny and Zola Steed Clark in Winston County, Mississippi. He was a graduate of Louisville High School and a member of Middleton Methodist Church. For 16 years, he was a heavy equipment operator for North American Coal  Corporation. Gary was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, deer hunting, and caring for his cows; but most of all, he loved his grandchildren and the time he spent with them.

Gary is survived by his wife Crystal Hatcher Clark of Louisville, and his children: Kristian Williamson and husband Matthew of Caledonia, Mississippi, and Chris Estes and wife Jena of Jasper, Indiana. One of his greatest joys is being “Pop” to his four grandchildren: Madyson Chamblee, Embry Grace Williamson, Peyton Williamson, and Alex Estes. He is also survived by four brothers: Lamar (Jamie) Clark, Jerry Clark, Keith (Kathy) Clark, and Billy Wade (Faye) Clark, his sister Sherry Clark, and his mother-in-law Carolyn Hatcher as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother Walter Clark.

Serving as pallbearers are Matthew Williamson, Chris Estes, Marty Bennett, Wade Fulton, Danny Mills, and Trey Whitehead. Honorary pallbearers are Lamar Clark, Jerry Clark, Keith Clark, and Billy Wade Clark. 

Memorial donations in honor of Gary may be given to the American Cancer Society online at cancer.org/involved/donate or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online at stjude.org/donate.

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.

Roy Byrd

Mr. Roy Rogers Byrd, 79, passed away on Saturday, August 28, 2021, at his home in Batesville, MS, surrounded by his family. A graveside service will be held at 11:30 A.M. on Saturday, September 4th, at Conn Family Cemetery in Louisville, with Rev. Billy Conn and Mr. Taylor Conn officiating. Visitation will be Saturday from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. at Porter Funeral Home. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Byrd was born June 25, 1942, in Holly Springs, MS. He was a graduate of Holly Springs High School, and worked as a sales representative for Nabisco Co. for 30 years. He was a member of Graham Height Baptist Church. Roy was a long-time volunteer with the Enid Campground. He enjoyed sports, outdoors and fishing, playing cards, and the St. Louis Cardinals.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernice and Charles Callis Byrd, Sr; and a brother, Charles C. Byrd, Jr. H

He is survived by his wife, Charlotte Ruth Keen Byrd of Batesville, MS; two daughters, Tammy (Billy) Conn of Madison, MS, and Cathy (Troy) Davidson of Memphis, TN; four sisters, Nancy Bailey of Water Valley, MS, Mary Hill of Ecru, MS, Martha Herridge of Wichita, KS, and Elizabeth Cullen of Red Banks, MS; two brothers, Michael Byrd of Holly Springs, MS, and Charles Byrd of Byhalia, MS; four grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be Billy Conn, Taylor Conn, Trevor Davidson, Troy Davidson, Trent Davidson, and Frankie Thompson.

Larry Lamar Watkins

Larry Lamar Watkins passed away on Friday, August 27, 2021, at Select Specialty Hospital in Jackson, Mississippi. Graveside services and interment will be 3 p.m. Sunday, August 29 at New Hope United Methodist Church Cemetery in DeKalb, Mississippi, with Rev. Hubert Yates officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 12 noon until 2 p.m. at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville, Mississippi.

Larry was born August 9, 1944, to Jerry Lamar “Bud” and Myrtis Burnett Watkins in Meridian, Mississippi. He was a member of Macedonia Baptist Church. Larry was a 1962 graduate of DeKalb High School; afterwards, he graduated from Mississippi State University with a degree in Agriculture Education. Continuing his education, he also earned a Master’s Degree and a Specialist Degree from Mississippi State University. He was an avid Mississippi State sports fan! Larry taught Agriculture in the Noxubee County School District for 17 years and completed his 31-year education career teaching at Nanih Waiya Attendance Center. During his career, he was a sponsor for Future Farmers of America (FFA) student organization. After his retirement, he enjoyed watching westerns, drinking all the sweet tea he wanted, playing solitaire and dominoes, and caring for his goats; but most importantly, he loved being involved with his granddaughters and their activities.

Larry is survived by his daughter Margaret Brown and husband Jeff of Tupelo, Mississippi, and West Watkins and wife Melanie of Louisville. One of his greatest joys is being “PaPaw” to his two granddaughters Laura Leigh Watkins and Karley Watkins. He is preceded in death by his son Jerry Webb Watkins, his parents, and an infant brother Terry Watkins.

Serving as pallbearers are Chris Clark, Cody Clark, Paul Goodin, Johnny Hatcher, Greg McDaniel and Brian Ross. Memorial donations in honor of Larry may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online at stjude.org/donate.

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.

Joy Parkes Clark

A memorial service for Joy Parkes Clark will be held Friday, August 27, 11 a.m. at First Methodist Church of Louisville. Visitation with the family will be from 9-11. Joy passed from this life to the next on December 8, 2020.

Sue Bennett Fulcher

Mrs. Sue Bennett Fulcher, 95, passed away on Sunday, January 31, 2021, at the Beehive Home in Louisville. A memorial service honoring Sue’s life will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, September 4th, at West Union Presbyterian Church, with Rev. J. Michael Vinson of Conway, AR, and Mr. Charley McCool officiating.

Sue was born May 2, 1925, in Louisville, to Ethel Clark Bennett and Samuel Leonard Bennett. She was a graduate of Louisville High School, East Central Junior College, and attended Mississippi State University. She worked for the Mississippi Department of Human Services (old Welfare Department) for many years, and as a bookkeeper for Mississippi Valley Gas until her retirement. She was a lifelong member of West Union Presbyterian Church, where she played the piano and organ. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, and was a member and officer of the Louisville Pilot Club. She was a devoted and caring mother and grandmother and her sweet spirit made her beloved by children, animals, friends, and family. She loved the Lord with all her heart, soul, and might.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Leon “Pete” Fulcher, her parents; two sisters, Virginia Ward and Joyce Hull; and three brothers, Joe Bennett, Gilbert Bennett, and Dale Bennett.

She is survived by a son, Wade Bennett “Benny” Fulcher of Louisville; a daughter, Ellen Ishee O’Lonney of Roland, AR; five grandchildren, Jacob (Erin) Ishee, Slay Ishee, Jamie Little, Stacie (Rusty) Waites, and Lyndsey Fulcher; seven great grandchildren, Kayleigh, Jackson, Jaicie, Ollie, Khloe, Lilly, and Auden.

The family would like to thank Sue’s friends and caregivers at the Beehive for loving her and making her a home when she could not be at hers.

Memorials may be made to West Union Presbyterian Church, c/o Linda Hudson, 19005 Hwy 15 N., Louisville, MS, 39339; and Belkot Village Relief, Nepal, c/o Regions Bank, Louisville.

Travis Earl Davis

Travis Earl Davis, 69, of Louisville, MS., passed on Tuesday, August 24, 2021, at his home. Funeral Service will be Monday, August 30, 2021, at 11 a.m., from Beck Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will be Sunday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Louisville Memorial Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements. 

Travis Earl Davis was born June 27, 1952 to Lillie Pearl Walker Davis and Roosevelt Davis in Louisville, Mississippi. 

He was preceded in death by his Mother, Lillie Pearl Davis; his father, Roosevelt Davis; his grandmother, Savannah Walker; and one sister Eva Pearl Davis. 

Travis leaves to cherish his memories two daughters, Shaneka Goss of Cleveland, OH., and Kanesha Trammell of Hampton, VA. one sister, Georgie Shell(William) of Louisville, MS., one brother-in-love, William Henry Dismuke of Louisville, MS., and a host of Grandchildren, nieces, nephews and great neices, great nephews and other cousins and family.

Willie Lee Smith

Willie Lee Smith, 67, of Chicago, IL., passed on Tuesday, August 10, 2021, in Chicago, IL. Gottlieb Memorial Hospital. Funeral Service will be Thursday, August 26, 2021, at 2 p.m., from Beck Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church Cemetery, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Thursday, from 12 noon until funeral Hour. Beck Funeral Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

 
Willie worked at Wallace Computer Service and as a personal Trainer, before starting his own business, Willie's Health and Fitness Center in Elwood Park, IL.

Willie leaves to cherish his memory; his mother, Leama Banks; his step-father, Artis Banks; his sons, Jamal D. Robinson, Sr. and Zachery Smith

Wayne Lee Stockman

Wayne Lee Stockman, 54, passed away Monday, August 23, 2021, at OCH Regional Medical Center in Starkville, MS. He was born September 8, 1966, in Columbus, MS to Charlie Sr. and Lillian (Atkins) Stockman.

Wayne was a former floor installer. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and he loved spending time riding his Harley, woodworking, and with his grandchildren.

Memorial Funeral Services will be held on Saturday August 28, 2021 at 2:00PM at Friendship Baptist Church near Sturgis, MS. Visitation will be held on Friday August 27, 2021 from 4:00PM until 7:00PM at Friendship Baptist Church near Sturgis, MS. Coleman Funeral Home of Ackerman, MS is in charge of arrangements.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Sherry Black Stockman of Starkville; five sons, Mitchell Stockman (Tiffany) of Jackson, MS, Dalton Stockman of Starkville, MS, Matthew Stockman of Starkville, MS, Cody Hunt of Ackerman, MS, and Victor Hunt of Pearl, MS; one daughter, Angel Patterson (Chris) of Florence, MS; two sisters, Judy Ponder (Jerry Sr.), and Debra Stockman (Don); and three brothers; David Stockman (Sherry), Larry Stockman (Shirley), and Chuck Stockman (Kim.) He is also survived by ten grandchildren: Dayton, Abigail, Emily, Lynlee, Ellie, Asher, Finn, Dallas, Ryder, and Charleigh Rose.

Wayne is preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Jerry "Rebel" Stockman.

Memorials may be made to the Le Bonheur Children's Hospital.

Willie Faye Dawkins

Willie Faye White Dawkins, passed away at the age of 102 on Wednesday, August 25, 2021, at her residence in Sturgis, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Friday, August 27 at Beth Eden Lutheran Church in Louisville with Rev. Stacy Parvin officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 1 p.m. until service time at the church. Interment will immediately follow in Beth Eden Cemetery.

Willie Faye was born April 12, 1919, to Sammie and Lena Davis White. She was a member of Beth Eden Lutheran Church. Willie Faye was a caring, loving person who always put everyone else and their needs ahead of her. She enjoyed cooking for and visiting those in the community that were sick or needed help. Her grandchildren were the love of her life and yet, she loved her great-grandchildren even more! Her life truly exhibited her love for people and she was a true Southern lady.

Willie Faye is survived by her children: Betty Rhodes of Sturgis, Mississippi, Patty Peterson and husband Giles of Louisville, and Beverly Quinn and husband Larry also of Sturgis. One of her greatest joys is being “Mama Faye” to her five grandchildren: Glenn (Debbie) Rhodes, Carolyn (Dale) Dickerson, Thomas Peterson, Dawn Reynolds, and Tony (Donna) Jordan. She also dearly loved her 14 great-grandchildren: April (Ed) Friedhaber, Morgan (Summer) Rhodes, Betsy Rhodes, Ashley Hays, Lindsie Hays, Tonya (Andy) Darnell, Shena Dickerson, Brad (Brittany) Dickerson, Natalie (Philip) Beddingfield, Jacob and Jordyn Eldridge, Matthew Reynolds, Katelyn (Grant) Vandiver, and Ethan Jordan as well as her 17 great-great-grandchildren, one great-great-great grandson, and a host of nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband Marshall Dawkins, granddaughters Marsha Rhodes Eldridge, sons-in-law Ralph Jordan and Charles Rhodes, granddaughter-in-law Melanie Peterson, great-granddaughter Kisha Hays, great-great-granddaughter Madison Nichole Dickerson, and her parents.

Serving as pallbearers are Dale Dickerson, Ethan Jordan, Tony Jordan, Thomas Peterson, Matthew Reynolds, Glenn Rhodes, Logan Rhodes, and Morgan Rhodes. Memorial donations in honor of Momma Faye may be given to Beth Eden Cemetery Fund, c/o Junie Fuller, 10866 Brooksville Road, Louisville, MS 39339.

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.

Nita Miles Anderson

Graveside services for Nita Miles Anderson will be held Tuesday, August 24, 2021 at 11 a.m. from Bloomfield Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Bishop and Rev. Lawrence Pool officiating. McClain-Hays Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Anderson, 77, of Philadelphia, died Saturday, August 21, 2021.

She was a native of Nanih Waiya Community of Winston County and a longtime resident of Neshoba County. Mrs. Anderson was a member of Center Hill Baptist Church and was a homemaker.

Survivors include daughter, Teresa Morris of Louisville; son, Wendell Eaves of Columbus; grandchild, Lia Morris; sister, Judy Moffett of Macon; brothers, Charles Miles of Louisville and Michael Miles of Nanih Waiya; numerous nieces, nephews and their families.

Mrs. Anderson was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Anderson; son, Wesley Eaves; parents, Louis and Jenny Miles; grandchild, Ashley Linch.

Joseph "J. B." Griffith

Mr. Joseph Brown “J.B.” Griffith, 71, passed away on Sunday, August 22, 2021, at Trend Health and Rehab in Carthage, MS. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, August 25th, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Franklin Smith officiating. Interment will be in Indian Springs Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Griffith was born October 11, 1949, in Noxapater, MS. He was a lineman for 4-County Electric Power for over 35 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Pearl Smith Griffith and Joseph Bryant Griffith; and one sister, Sallie Vowell.

He is survived by one daughter, Tammy Biggers of Tupelo, MS; two sons, Bobby Griffith of Columbus, MS and Bryan Dennis Griffith of Eupora, MS; three brothers, Horace Griffith of Meridian, MS, Richard Griffith of Pontotoc, MS, and Joe Griffith of West Point, MS; 8 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; and special friend, Oretha Smith.

Pallbearers will be Bradley Griffith, Jonathan Edwards, Jim Palmer, Timothy Biggers, Corey Biggers, and Tyler Griffith.

Quentin Anthony Popec

Quentin Anthony Popec passed away at the age of 49 on Saturday, August 14, 2021, at his residence in Beaumont, Texas. Memorial services will be 6 p.m. Friday, August 20 in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel in Louisville, Mississippi. A private family visitation will be the day of the service at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home.

Quentin was born April 10, 1972, to Ray and Linda Smith Popec in Chicago, Illinois. He was an avid sports fan and loved following the Chicago Cubs, Bears, and Bulls both in good seasons and not so good seasons! Quentin loved life, occasionally showing his comedic side. He was also known as a “Mr. Fix-It” because he loved “tinkering” with all kinds of things. Quentin dearly loved his family and being a Poppy. He was an Industrial Electrician who worked on commercial construction sites.

Quentin is survived by his wife Mitsy Collins Popec of Beaumont, Texas, and his children: Adam Popec, Morgan (Kelcey) Popec, Jasmine Popec, and Madison Baysinger. One of his greatest joys was being “Poppy” to his granddaughter Everleigh Baysinger. He also leaves behind his parents Ray and Linda Kaye Popec of Louisville, his sister Kelly (Todd) Eaves of Preston, Mississippi, his brother Scott Popec of Lumberton, Texas, and his in-laws Wiley and Beth Collins of Noxapater, and Linda Pettit of Kosciusko, Mississippi. He is also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Quentin was preceded in death by his granddaughter Adeline Baysinger, Everleigh's twin sister.

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.

Bobby Sciple

The graveside service for Mr. Bobby Sciple of Scooba, MS will be held at 2:00 P.M. Friday, August 20, 2021, at Cedar Lawn Cemetery, located off Jackson Highway in Scooba. Reverend Wilson Kendrick will officiate at the service. Visitation will be Thursday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 P.M. at Cockrell Funeral Home 3478 Jefferson Street Macon, MS 39341. (Masks are not required but are preferred at the visitation). Memorials may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society 3500 Blue Lake Drive #225 Birmingham, Al 35243. Mr. Sciple passed away peacefully on August 15th at the University of Alabama Birmingham Medical Center after a long battle with cancer.

Bobby Sciple was born on September 18,1964 to Clara Dean Patterson Sciple and the late Ralph Sciple in Noxubee County, MS. He lived in Noxubee and Winston Counties as a child before moving to Kemper County along with his family. He attended West Kemper High School where he met and fell in love with his sweetheart, Melinda McMurtry. The two graduated in May of 1982 and were married on June 29, 1985.

Bobby learned to work hard by going to work with his father at an early age. In doing so he developed a passion for operating heavy equipment, and he became a very talented operator. His Dad helped teach him all the skills that he needed to be successful. Bobby was recently employed by The North American Coal Cooperation at their Kemper County Liberty Mine and the Red Hills Mine in Ackerman, MS.

Serving his community was very important to Bobby and it allowed him to make many life-long friends. He enjoyed serving as a long-time member of the Town of Scooba Board of Aldermen and he and his family were members of the Scooba Bar-B-Que Club where he served as President for many years until his passing. He was blessed to be a member of the Geiger United Methodist Church in Geiger, AL.

The top priorities in Bobby’s life were his family and his friends. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and he loved making lasting memories with his children as they hunted deer, turkey, or spent some quiet time together at the “blue hole”. His greatest joy, however, was found in spending time with his grandchildren.
Bobby Sciple leaves to mourn his passing his wife of 36 years: Melinda McMurtry Sciple and their two children: Christopher Sciple (Meagan) and Christina Vernon (Kyle) as well as his mother: Clara Dean Patterson Sciple. He also leaves behind his brother: Jimmy Sciple (Lisa) and his sister: Peggy Sue Besse (Shannon) and his two precious grandchildren: Hadlee Hailey (age 8) and Miles Vernon (age 1).

Hargie Lee Hughes

Hargie Lee Hughes, 84, of Louisville, MS., passed on Saturday, August 14, 2021, at Winston County Nursing Home, Louisville, MS. Graveside Service will be Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021 at 2 p.m., from the Louisville Memorial Cemetery, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Friday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements. 

Mr. Hughes, was born June 13, 1937, to the parents of Nathan Hughes and Rosa Jane Crosby in Winston County Mississippi. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rosie and Nathan Hughes; his wife, Mary Lee Byrd Hughes; one daughter, Ellen Joyce Byrd; one son, Cornelius Dale Miller and ten siblings. 

Hargie leaves to cherish his memories four sons, Lee Hughes, Rodrick(LaCanada)Miller, Terry Hughes, and Richard Lee Henton; two daughters, Ida Faye Henton(Willie) Sangster and Ruby Hughes; He also raised, Bernice Miller(Wes) Flor, Sammy(Inet)Miller, Betty Miller Cotton and Robert(Marie)Miller as his own; two sisters, Grosie Smith and Allie Bell Love; one sister-in-law, Arneater(Willer)Crosby; a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren;(2) very special family friends, Evangelist Debbie Lee Love and Diane Shields Kelly and Family and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Rosie Lee Childress

Rosie Lee Childress, 94, of Memphis, TN., formerly of Louisville, MS., passed on Thursday, August 12, 2021, at Methodist University Hospital, Memphis, TN. Funeral Service will be Saturday, at 11 a.m., from Beck Funeral Home, with Visitation on Friday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Louisville Memorial Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements. 

Mrs. Childress, was born July 3, 1927, in Winston County Mississippi to the parents of Holiday Carr and Rosa Bell Childress Turner. Rosie was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Alan Childress and her son, Johnnie Lee Childress. 

She leaves to cherish her memories, her children; Willene Sowell, Roy Lee Childress, Thomas Childress(Betty), Nora Eddings(Sylvester), and a host of grand children, great grandchildren, great great great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Joyce Mahia Young

Joyce Mahia Young, 72, of Cleveland Heights, OH., formerly of Louisville, Mississippi, passed on Friday, August 6, 2021, at Hospice of Western Reserve, Cleveland, OH. Funeral Service will be Friday, August 20, 2021 at 12 Noon from Beck Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will be Thursday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Union Chapel Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements. 

Joyce M. Young was born on February 26, 1949 to Claudie Hunt and Joe Welch in Louisville, Mississippi. She was preceded in death by her parents, Claudie Hunt and Joe Welch; three sisters and two brothers.

Joyce leaves to cherish her memories; one daughter, Tammy Young and one granddaughter, Courtney Young; five sisters, Ruby(Charles)McBride of Weir, MS., Mary Thompson, Shirley(Leon)Welch, Yvonne(Casey) Moore all of Louisville, MS., and Dolly Burton of Philadelphia, MS. six brothers, Donnie(Elizabeth)Welch of Cleveland, OH., Leon Welch, Tracy(Mae) Hardin, Leroy(Judy)Owens, Thomas Eiland all of Louisville, MS., James(Kathleen)Welch of Weir, MS., and Timothy Welch of McDonough, GA; she also leaves to cherish her memories, a special friend, Bessie Love of Louisville, MS. and Waldena Garrett of Cleveland, OH. two aunts, Joyce Foster of Cleveland, OH., and Vera Jernigan of Louisville, MS;one uncle, Mac Eiland of East St. Louis, IL., and a host of nieces, nephews and other cousins and friends

James "J. D." Eaves

James Doyle “JD” Eaves, II, passed away at the age of 16 on Wednesday, August 18, 2021, at Winston Medical Center in Louisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 5 p.m. Saturday, August 21 at Good Hope Baptist Church in the Nanih Waiya Community with Rev. Jason Gross officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 3 p.m. until service time at the church. Interment will immediately follow in Good Hope Cemetery.

JD was born March 17, 2005, to Natalie Nowell Young and Chad Eaves. He was a junior at Nanih Waiya Attendance Center. JD attended Good Hope Baptist Church with his family. He loved animals and at one time or another has owned a turtle, lizard, gecko, guinea pig, dogs, cats, and pigs! JD was very smart and technology oriented so he was the one to call to fix a cellphone, computer, or television. Even though he was unable to participate, JD loved sports. He also enjoyed Legos architecture (meaning 4000+ pieces) and playing video games.

JD is survived by his mother Natalie Nowell Young and husband Brian Young Louisville, his father Chad Eaves and wife Amanda of Hickory, Mississippi, and his sister Joy Paige Eaves. He also leaves behind his grandparents: Carol and Harry Nowell of Louisville, Betty and “Wibby” Young of Noxapater, Mississippi, and Wanda and Leslie Shivers of Madison, Mississippi. JD is also survived by his step-brothers Carson Young and Logan Sayers, his step-sisters Brianna Young and Lanie Sayers, and his uncle Lucas (Britni) Nowell, as well as many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He is preceded in death by his grandparents Helen and Doyle Eaves, uncle Kevin Eaves, and cousin Nolan Ellzey.

Serving as pallbearers are Logan Ellzey, Cody Ming, Marty Ming, Eric Nowell, Matt Renick, and Tony Sistrunk. 

Memorial contributions in honor of JD may be given to Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital online at friendsofch.org/give or to Make-A-Wish of Mississippi online at wish.org.

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.

Shannon Armondo Carter

Shannon Armondo Carter, 41, of Louisville, Mississippi, passed on Monday, August 16, 2021, at the Winston County Medical Center, Louisville, MS. Funeral Service will be Sunday, August 22, 2021 at 2 p.m., from Beck Funeral Home. Visitation will be Saturday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Louisville Memorial Cemetery. Shannon was born August 31, 1979, to the parents of Linder and James Carter. He was employed by KCS Railroad as Engineer. He is survived; by children; Shunacy Montel Carter, Tivonny Carter, Shamya Carter and Janyla Jones;two grands; Parents; Linder and James Carter; sister, Jamie Sharnay Carter, Aunts, Uncles, and other Cousins and relatives;

Cora Lee Palmer

Mrs. Cora Lee Palmer, 68, passed away at her home surrounded by her loving family and friends on Saturday, August 21, 2010 in Louisville, Mississippi. Visitation will be at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville, Mississippi, on Monday, August 23, 2010 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 24, 2010 at Harmony Baptist Church in the Nanih Waiya Community with interment following in Harmony Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Lundy and Rev. Tommy Jones officiating.

Mrs. Palmer was a retired cafeteria worker from the Nanih Waiya School Cafeteria and a member of Harmony Baptist Church.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Joe W. Palmer, Sr. of Louisville; three sons, Joe W. (Dana) Palmer, Jr. of Mobile, Alabama, Jerry P. (Sue) Palmer of Pisgah, Mississippi, and Johnny L. (Allison) Palmer of Philadelphia, Mississippi; a step-daughter, Rita Herman of Louisville; two sisters, Maria Ann Underwood of Louisville and Bea (George) Price of Riverside, MI; three grandchildren, Jason Palmer of Nashville, Tennessee, Arin Palmer of Mobile, Alabama and Posey Leigh Palmer of Philadelphia, Mississippi; three step-grandchildren, Dustin Herman, Megan Herman and Melanie Waldrop; two great-grandchildren, Hayden Patrick and Katelyn Noel. Preceding her in death were her parents, Lee Roy and Ada Elizabeth Monty Hamilton and a son, Roy Wayne Palmer.

Pallbearers will be Victor Underwood, Dave Underwood, Jason Palmer, Arin Palmer, Dustin Herman, and Paul Reed. Memorials may be made to Harmony Baptist Church Cemetery Fund. Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS is handling the arrangements. You may sign the guestbook at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.

Frederick Edward "Buddy" Vowell

Frederick Edward "Buddy" Vowell, a retired pipeliner of over fifty years, passed away on Monday, August 16, 2021, at his residence near Ackerman, MS. Buddy was born November 13, 1939, in Choctaw County, MS, to Earl and Maude Saxon Vowell. He was 81 years old and a veteran of the United States Army.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 18, 2021, at 1:00 p.m., at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS. Burial will follow at Wood Springs Baptist Church Cemetery near Eupora, MS. Coleman Funeral Home of Ackerman, MS is in charge of all arrangements. Visitation will be held from 12PM until the service time on Wednesday, August 18, at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman.

Buddy is survived by his wife Carolyn Vowell of Ackerman, MS, Sons, Donald Vowell of Ackerman, MS and Daniel (Christy) Vowell of Eupora, MS, brother, Joe Vowell of McCool, MS, and sister Ruth Reed of Panama City, FL. He is also survived by three grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews and numerous great nieces and nephews.

Buddy was preceded in death by his parents, six brothers, and six sisters.

Scotty Williamson

Jeffrey Scott “Scottie” Williamson, 55, passed away on Sunday, August 15, 2021, at the Sanctuary Hospice House in Tupelo, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 11 a. m. Tuesday, August 17 at First Pentecostal Church in Noxapater, Mississippi, with Bro. Fred Frazier, Jr. officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 10 a.m. until service time at the church. Interment will immediately follow the service in Sunrise Memorial Cemetery in Noxapater.

Scottie was born July 24, 1966, to Martin Dan “M. D.” and Betty Ann Pickett Williamson in Jackson, Mississippi. He was a graduate of Mississippi State University with a degree in Forestry. He began his career with Georgia Pacific Corporation, next he worked for Plum Creek, and finally with Weyerhauser Corporation where he enjoyed teaching new interns about the world of forestry. Scottie was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed hiking in the Smoky Mountains, kayaking, fishing, going to the beach and deep-sea fishing, as well as working on the farm keeping it up by bushhogging. Scottie enjoyed cooking for everyone especially at family events. He loved keeping up with the Mississippi State baseball team and any Nanih Wayia school sporting events. With his outgoing personality, he never met a stranger and was a friend to many.

Scottie is survived by his wife of 32 years Lynn Webb Williamson of Starkville, Mississippi, and his daughter Ashley Williamson and her fiancé Alex Sealy of Satsuma, Alabama. He is also survived by his father M. D. Williamson of the Nanih Waiya Community, his sisters Sherri (James) Nicholson of Auburn, Alabama, and Lisa (Jason) Wheat of Flowood, Mississippi, as well as his mothers-in-law Patsy Webb and Judy Webb and sister-in-law Patty Webb. Scottie also leaves behind a host of loved nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother Betty Ann Williamson, his father-in-law Jerry Webb, and his brother-in-law Jerry Webb, Jr.

Serving as pallbearers are Jim Bell, Ken Burton, Mike Kemp, James Nicholson, Walt Nicholson, and Arnulfo Zendejas. Honorary pallbearers are Marc Fioramonti, Stephen Goodin, Chris McArthur, and Jason McArthur. Memorials in honor of Scottie may be given to Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children, Office of Development, 2500 N. State Street, Jackson, MS 39216.

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.

 

Joe "J. W.." Palmer

Joe Welch “J. W.” Palmer, Sr., 89, passed away at his residence surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, August 15, 2021 in Louisville, Mississippi. Funeral services with military honors will be 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 21, 2021, at Harmony Baptist Church in the Nanih Waiya Community with Bro. Jerry Lundy and Bro. Tommy Jones officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service at the church from 12 noon until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in Harmony Cemetery.

J. W. was born September 4, 1931, to Theron Pierce and Bertha Myers Palmer in Winston County, Mississippi. He was actively involved with any activities going on at Harmony Baptist Church as long as his health permitted. J. W. was an avid outdoorsman and he enjoyed such activities as gardening, hunting and fishing, or just piddlin’ always staying busy doing something. Professionally, he was a welder and fabricator for Taylor Machine Works for 20 years. J. W. was “rig welder” on an offshore oil rig and was known as “Joe the Welder.” He also enjoyed watching any team play sports especially football but most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family. J. W. answered the call of his country by serving four years in the United States Air Force.

He is survived by his four children: Rita Herman of Leland, Mississippi, Joe W. (Dana) Palmer, Jr. of Daphne, Alabama, Jerry P. (Sue) Palmer of Brandon, Mississippi, and Johnny L. (Allison) Palmer of Philadelphia, Mississippi. One of his greatest joys was being “Pop” to his five grandchildren: Dustin Herman, Arin Palmer, Melanie Eyler, Megan Herman, and Posey Leigh Palmer and his five great-grandchildren: Hayden Patrick Palmer, Katelyn Noel Palmer, Holden Lee Palmer, Aubree Herman, and Emmie Eyler. He also leaves behind a brother James Alfred (Josie) Palmer. Preceding him in death were his wife Cora Lee Palmer, a son Roy Wayne Palmer, his grandson Jason Palmer, and his siblings Travis Palmer, Nettie Louise Palmer Gregory, Gloria Lee Palmer Reed, Melba Kathleen Palmer Boydston, and Billy Wayne Palmer.

Memorials may be made to Harmony Baptist Church Senior Adult Fund, 320 Harmony Baptist Church Road, 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.

Alesia "Lisa" Gail Channell

Alesia "Lisa" Gail Channell, passed away on Friday, August 13, 2021, at Anderson Medical Center in Meridian, MS. Lisa was born April 21, 1962, in Neshoba County, MS, to Jimmy Stroud and Mary Akins Sullivan. She was 59 years old.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, August 15, 2021, at 2:00 p.m., at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS. Burial will follow at Bethlehem Baptist Church Cemetery near Ackerman, MS. Services will be conducted by Rev. Dan Blake. Coleman Funeral Home of Ackerman is in charge of all arrangements. Visitation will be held from 12PM until 2PM prior to the service on Sunday, August 15, at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman.

Lisa is survived her husband Robert Channell of Ackerman, MS, her son, Jason Channell of Vicksburg, MS, her daughter Ashley (Rob) Gary of Eupora, MS, her mother, Mary Akins (Tommy) Sullivan of Philadelphia, MS, and her father, Jimmy (Mary) Stroud of Lake, MS. She is also survived by a sister, Melissa (Todd) Dunn of Sturgis, MS, and four brothers; Stanley (Margaret) Stroud of Sturgis, MS, David (Samantha) Stroud of Lake, MS, Dennis (LeAnn) Sullivan of Decatur, MS and Tommy (Sarah) Sullivan of House, MS. Lisa also leaves behind three grandchildren, Blake Channell, Jacob Channell, and Hunter Gary as well as numerous nieces and nephews and numerous great nieces and nephews.

Lisa is preceded in death by a sister, Lori Dunaway.

James Theodore “Ted” Crabtree

James Theodore “Ted” Crabtree, 94, of Macon, MS passed away on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, at Mississippi State Veterans Hospital in Kosciusko. Services will be held on Friday, August 13th at 2:00 PM at Salem Memorial Church near Macon with Bro Bill Ross officiating. Visitation will also be held at the church from 1-2 PM. The family requests no flowers, please. All memorials should be made to the Salem Cemetery Fund, 23 Hunter Street Macon, MS 39341. Cockrell Funeral Home of Macon is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.

James Theodore “Ted” Crabtree was born and reared in Macon, MS. He was a graduate of Salem Agriculture High School. Upon graduation, Ted joined the United States Navy for two years and later joined the United States Army National Guard where he was soon called to service during World War II as a supply sergeant.

He was married to Patricia Ming in 1949 and started the Crabtree Dairy in the Salem Community, which he ran until 1972. He then took a position with the Mississippi Forestry Commission where he dedicated thirty-two years of service before his retirement.
He was married to Mary Patterson in 1980. The two of them enjoyed thirty-nine years of marriage before her death in March of 2019.

Ted enjoyed working and fishing– mainly on Hashuqua Creek and the Noxubee River. He will be fondly remembered as a simple country man who always chose his words with care.
Ted is survived by four daughters Debbie (Randy) Stapleton and Diane Tiffin both of Macon, MS. Christie (Richard) Mullins of Guntown, MS. Helen (Claude) Richardson of Louisville, MS and one son Rusty (Kathy) Crabtree of Vancleave, MS. Ten grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by two sons: Teddy Parks Crabtree and Kenneth Allan Crabtree, three brothers, two wives, and one son-in-law.

James G. “Jerry” Carpenter, Sr.

Visitation: None. Memorial Funeral Service: 11AM Saturday August 21, 2021 at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS. Interment: Salem Independent Methodist Church Cemetery

Johnny Ray Coleman

Johnny Ray Coleman, 71, of Louisville, MS., passed on Sunday, August 8, 2021, at his home. A Memorial Service will be conducted at at later date. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements. Mr. Coleman was born September 28, 1949, in Winston County Mississippi to the parents of Sylvester Coleman and Bessie Holmes Coleman. He is survived by children: Tiffany Coleman, Indianapolis, IN., son, Darryl Coleman of IN; Mother, Bessie Coleman, and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Bobby Prewitt

Bobby Hue Prewitt passed away Monday, August 9, 2021, at St. Dominic Hospital in Jackson, MS. Bobby was born February 9, 1935, in Choctaw County, MS. He was 86 years old. Bobby worked in several positions throughout the years. He owned and operated Choctaw Butane, served as Choctaw County Chancery Clerk, and eventually retired with the Mississippi Department of Transportation. Bobby was a very active member of the Ackerman Baptist Church for many years, serving as past Deacon, and donating many hours of service to the church and community. He loved his roots and the people here in Choctaw County, and was deeply loved by all those who were fortunate enough to be called his friend.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 14, 2021, 11:00 a.m., at Ackerman Baptist Church in Ackerman, MS, with Rev. Danny Irvin and Rev. John Thomas officiating. Burial will follow at Old Lebanon Cemetery near Ackerman, MS. Visitation will be held Friday, August 13, 2021 from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS.

Memorials may be made to Ackerman Baptist Church or Old Lebanon Presbyterian Church.

Annie Ruth Yarbrough

Annie Ruth Yarbrough, 78, of Sturgis, MS., passed on Friday, August 6, 2021, at Merit Health Central, Jackson, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, August 14, 2021, at 2 p.m., from Boyd Chapel United Methodist Church, Sturgis, MS. Visitation will be Friday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Mrs. Yarbrough will be reposed in the Church on Saturday, one hour before service time. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Jamiyra Evette Hampton

Jamiyra Evette Hampton, 37, of Louisville, MS., passed on Wednesday, August 4, 2021, at the Baptist Medical Center, Columbus, MS. A memorial service will be Saturday, August 14, 2021, at 2 p.m., from Beck Funeral Home.

Motoko Harashima McAdory

Motoko Harashima McAdory passed away at St. Dominic Hospital at the age of 91 years old around 12:30 Saturday morning August 7, 2021. Motoko leaves a legacy of her actions she endured and those actions affected how people remembered her. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 14 in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel in Louisville, Mississippi. Visitation will be the day of the service from 10 a.m. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will immediately follow the service in Oak Grove Cemetery in Noxapater, Mississippi.

Motoko (known to all of us as Moto) was born in Tokyo, Japan. Her mother, Fuji was a descendant of the aristocracy government. Fuji’s father (Moto’s grandfather) was a Japanese senator and her family history goes back to the Samurai system. The Samurai‘s were known as a powerful military caste in feudal Japan, especially a member of the class of military retainers of the daimyos (meaning owning lots of private land). Moto’s family holds the sacred Samurai sword that carries the mon on it. The Japanese mon was known in Japan as money in the feudal days, but those who were Samurai’s carried the family mon (crest of a coin) which still holds true today. This crest places a mon holder to be a member of the upper Japanese hierarchy. Moto’s father, Kiyoshi Harashima was a business merchant who owned a retail store. The marriage of Moto’s parents was not of a traditional Japanese marriage. Moto’s mother married beneath her class, but Fuji’s father allowed this marriage to take place because Kiyoshi had convinced Fuji’s father that he would provide her with land, material items and would have financial stability. Moto’s family lived well above the middle class people in Tokyo. Their family store was more like a small Walmart store or hardware store we have today. Moto really never talked about her father’s side of the family because they had descendants from the upper islands of Japan that ran into Russia. She always claimed that her sister’s red hair color came from Russia.

When Moto was a young child she always considered herself to be a tomboy. Moto was never prissy, with girl’s clothes. Moto liked wearing shirts and pants, which was really not traditional clothing for a girl to wear back in those days. Moto rarely cried and would always stay close to her father and work with him. Her sisters stayed home and did domestic chores, but Moto would climb trees and play ball in the streets of Tokyo. Moto loved to fight with her sisters and would always win a tumble fight. She would tell stories about fights with her sisters and how they were such crybabies and so weak. Moto learned to fight with boys and would always win her fights. She loved watching boxing matches on television because she loved the art of fighting and would usually pick the correct winner. When Moto became a teenager, she would sneak out of her bedroom window upstairs and jump on the tiled roof and down to the streets of Tokyo and attend movie theaters at night. She wasn’t much of a partier, but she loved the movies, that desire passed down to her daughter, the love of movies. She was destined to go to a private school of Tokyo (all girls) but she didn’t like those girls at the private school, so she would intentionally fail private school tests to go to the public school system (boys and girls). Her mother had hired special tutors to get her in, but she continued to fail the private school entrance exams. Moto finally got her way, she attended public school because she got along better with the boys. Moto’s desire not to go to the private school saved her life because the private school she was to attend was bombed and all the girls died.

Moto used to talk about her cat. She loved her cat, she took care of her male cat and her siblings liked him too, the love of cats also carried down to her granddaughter, Mercedes. One day her cat urinated on a giant banana tree, and the tree died. Her father was furious that his favorite tree died because of Moto’s cat, so he took the cat about 40 miles away and left him. Moto was very sad about her father’s rage for something she loved so much. Her father, Kiyoshi was very surprised when Moto’s cat came back to her and he had decided she could keep her cat.
When WWII broke out, Moto was over 18 years of age. The government came and confiscated their belongings in the store and their jeep/car. They were one of only a few people that had cars in those days, so the government needed it. They maintained a little coal to keep warm, but others didn’t have any way to keep warm so her father shared the coals with some of his customers. When Tokyo was bombed, Moto’s family had to move onto the banks of the Tokyo river to survive. Her father, mother, Moto and her four young siblings lived in the river. The youngest was her two year old brother. This is where her father, Kiyoshi came down with pneumonia and died because they had to jump into the river and go underneath the water when the B-29 aircrafts came to machine gun down the Japanese people. Moto had to breathe for her two year old brother, Mitsugu under the water until the planes flew by. The people there had no food or medical attention, therefore her family knew that in order to survive, they would have to move to the country for food. They traded many pieces of their family jewelry and rare historical items for food along the way. They made their way up into the mountains where her older sister, Fukuko and brother-in-law lived. Moto’s mother and her five siblings had survived the war living in the mountain area of Japan. Sometime after the war ended, Moto’s eldest sister, Fukuko became a famous seamstress. Many people in Japan sought her services. She was asked to make clothes for the emperor of Japan, giving Fukuko, having the family mon hierarchy, an entrance into the emperor’s castle located in Tokyo.

After WWII was over, Moto was betrothed to an aristocratic Japanese man. The Japanese people were to marry in their hierarchy. He was a mountain climber, but that was one sport Moto did not like, she didn’t like going up high. He was unfortunately killed in a mountain climbing accident and she was saddened by the accident but in another feeling she was relieved that she would no longer be told who she had to marry.
Moto worked in a military bank as a bank teller; she would exchange American money to Japanese yen on the Air Force Base. She met a man at this bank named Coy McAdory, (she called Mac) who was stationed in Japan as a soldier in the U.S. Air Force. Mac kept coming back to exchange money. Moto knew this man liked her, because out of all the bank tellers he kept coming back to see her. Finally one day he asked her out for a date. Dating in Japan was a difficult task with an American. Many of the old Japanese people did not like American soldiers. When they walked the streets of Tokyo, they could not walk together or hold hands. The Japanese men would spit at Mac because he wore a flight wing on his military shirt. The same feelings applied with the American soldiers. Mac had to get special permission from his commander to date Moto, then, he had to get permission from the Air Force to marry her. They were to go to Mississippi to meet his family and get married there. There was a lot of red tape to get married, she had to undergo background search for communism. Moto was afraid to go to Mississippi because she felt that the American people would hold animosities against the Japanese for the war. When she arrived in Jackson, Mississippi, she was approached by an elderly woman who welcomed her to Mississippi. Moto was very surprised that she was so nice to her. When Mac applied for marriage in Mississippi, they were not able to get married there. The state had a law in place where two people with different nationalities or race could not get married. They both went to Birmingham, Alabama for their marriage license.

Mr. & Mrs. McAdory headed back to Japan, where Moto gave birth to two children, a daughter named Sara and a son named George. Moto’s brother, Kamio became a lawyer for a bank, her sisters, Toshiko and Kimie both married and moved to America. Toshiko owned commercial real estate in California and her husband worked as a landscape architect for President Richard Nixon and other Hollywood people. Kimie had Kimi’s Dog World where she trained dogs to go into the dog shows and a grooming company that she still works at today. Moto’s brother, Mitsugu became an electrical engineer and lived in California, Texas and moved to London England and retired working in Japan. Moto took culinary classes to become a professional chef. She learned to cook foods from different countries and not only was that her profession, but she really enjoyed cooking. She spent most of her entire life, moving from place to place on military bases working in mess halls, or catering halls. Her favorite work in Guam was baking cakes and decorating them. People from all around Guam would call on her to make special cakes for them. Moto had lived in Japan (three times), Ohio, Guam (twice) California (twice), Texas, Michigan, Virginia and finally Mississippi. Moto’s favorite cooking stories were at Zoli’s Restaurant where she cooked for customers who sat in front of her and watched her cook and they used to tell her that she had the best food in town. She later worked at Little Tokyo as a tempera chef. Moto fell and broke her arm two times at Little Tokyo, but still continued to cook at Little Tokyo. She remained there until she couldn’t work there anymore due to her second stroke, but they wanted her back so badly. Every time anyone visited Moto, she would want to cook for you. Even in her later years, she would cook for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren in her kitchen at home. When Moto wasn’t able to get up anymore, she kept apologizing for not being able to cook for them due to her third and fourth strokes. Moto was an extraordinary woman, tough, strong and everyone thought she was invincible.

Reginald Higginbotham

Reginald Higginbotham, 81, of Shuqualak, MS passed away on Wednesday, August 4, 2021 at Neshoba County Nursing Home in Philadelphia. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, August 7 at 10:00 AM at Macedonia Methodist Church cemetery near Shuqualak with Robert Higginbotham and Bro Gerald Butler officiating. There will be no visitation. The family requests no flowers, please. All memorials should be made to the Mississippi Fellowship of Christian Athletes P.O. Box 449 Ridgeland, MS 39158. Cockrell Funeral Home of Macon is honored to be in charge of arrangements.

Reginald Allen “Reg” Higginbotham was born to Johnny and Flora Butler Higginbotham on January 24,1940 during the worst snowstorm that Mississippi has ever experienced. He passed away from this earthly life on Wednesday August 4,2021 at the age of 81. He was the youngest of four children. His siblings were Lamar, Gilbert, and Virginia. He was a graduate of Shuqualak High School. He married Betty Jean Bateman right here in Macedonia Church 61 years ago on December 27, 1959. He had several jobs during his life but was best known for his expertise in operating a bull dozier. He was an avid Ole Miss Rebel fan, and he always supported his children and grandchildren in their athletic endeavors. He loved walker dogs and beagles. He was a turkey hunter, a fox hunter, a deer hunter, and a rabbit hunter. Simply put; he was a hunter. 

He leaves behind a legacy of hunters, future hunters, and families. Those are Robert (Carol) Higginbotham, Kiel (Lara), Jett and Lake Higginbotham. Josh McNeill, Maci-Jane McNeill, Julee (Benny Ray) Watkins, JD McNeill (Katelin), Maggie–Leigh McNeill. Ronnie (Tina) Higginbotham, Ethan Higginbotham, John David (Kristi) Higginbotham, Ty (Dakota Colville) Cohen Higginbotham, Hanna Higginbotham, Rhett Estes, Taylor Higginbotham.

Johnny Tullos

Johnny Dalton Tullos passed away on Tuesday, August 3, 2021, at the Mississippi Veteran's Home in Oxford, MS. He was born on March 9, 1937, in Choctaw County and was 84 years old.

Johnny was a lifelong resident of Choctaw County and felt there was not a better place to live. He was a member of Enon Cumberland Presbyterian Church and had deep roots in Salem United Methodist Church where his walk with Jesus began.

Upon graduation from Weir High School, Johnny served in the U.S. Army. After his service in the Army, he spent the remainder of his working life in construction, building, and managing housing projects over the south.

Johnny cared deeply for his family. He is survived by his wife, Linda; 2 daughters, Tina Goodin of Louisville, MS, Tracy(Chad) Anderson of Fairhope, AL; stepson George(Amy) Poteet of Holly Springs, MS; stepdaughter Kim(Brent) Harbert of Collierville, TN; 10 grandchildren: Ashton(Alex) May, Dalton Anderson, Lynley Grace Anderson, Lauren Poteet, Sarah(Taylor) Dempsey, Grant Poteet, Abbey Harbert, Allie Harbert, Anna Harbert, and Jameson Poteet; sister, Mamie Trussell of Winona, MS, and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents, Minnie and Willie Boyd Tullos, 1 brother, Billy Tullos, and 1 sister, Norma Long.

Services will be held on Sunday, August 8, 2021, 2:00 p.m., at Enon Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Ackerman, MS, with Rev. Jerry Lawson officiating. Burial will follow in Enon Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. till service time.

Kimberly Foster

Mrs. Kimberly Foster, 43, passed away on Wednesday, August 4, 2021, at her home in Noxapater, MS. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Saturday, August 7th, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Antione Stokes officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Kimberly was born March 12, 1978, in Winston County, MS. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Andy and Ann Nowell, and George and Minnie Mae Foster.

She is survived by her husband, Tommy Williams of Noxapater, MS; a daughter, Megan Williams of Noxapater; her parents, Dale and Janice Foster; sisters, Carrie (Carlos) Hernandez and Lisa (Daniel) Dearing; her brother, Kevin Aguilar; nieces and nephews, Ashley Kelly, D. J. Kelly, and Carlos Andres Hernandez, Anna Grace Dearing, Sarah Dearing, and Georgia Dearing; aunts and uncles, Pam Robertson, Debbie Holiness, Jerry Foster, Larry Foster, Gene Foster; great uncle, Ernest (Brenda) Flake, great aunt, Betty Miles; and a host of cousins and friends.

Maurice Clay

Mr. Henry Maurice Clay, 79, passed away on Wednesday, August 4, 2021, at Anderson Regional Medical Center in Meridian, MS. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, August 7th, at Harmony Baptist Church, with Rev. Jerry Lundy and Rev. Tommy Jones officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Harmony Baptist Church Family Life Center. Interment will be in Harmony Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Clay was born October 21, 1941, in Winston County. He was a 1959 graduate of Nanih Waiya High School, where he played football and scored the first touchdown ever scored for Nanih Waiya. He served in the U. S. Navy during the Vietnam war. He graduated from East Central Community College, and Mississippi State University, where he received his degree in education. He was a retired high school teacher, having taught at Durant, Weir, and Nanih Waiya, and coached football and girls’ basketball. He loved hunting and fishing, and was the gospel music DJ at WLSM for many years. He was a faithful member of Harmony Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Shirley and Joe Clay.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Charlotte Kemp Clay; a daughter, Susan Jackson of Louisville; a son, Joe (Amy) Clay of Lake, MS; seven grandchildren, A. J. (Chasity) Clay, Hannah (Perry) Stroud, Rachel Clay, Olivia Clay, Corey (Kayla) Jackson, Cara (Todd) Hughes, and Clay Jackson; and four great grandchildren, Tucker Clay, Bonnie Clay, Maryanne Stroud, and Owen Jackson.

Pallbearers will be A. J. Clay, Perry stroud, Corey Jackson, Clay Jackson, Todd Hughes, and Jeffrey Yarbrough.

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

Annie Lee Hickman

Mrs. Annie Lee Hickman, 85, of Louisville, MS., passed on Wednesday, August 4, 2021, at the Louisville Health Care Center, Louisville, MS. Mrs. Hickman, was born January 22, 1936, to the parents of Summerfield Worthy and Lillian Barron, in Winston County Mississippi. She is survived by her children; Jolynn Jordan of Starkville, MS., Deila Idom, Garry Hickman, Kerry(Twanda) Hickman, Kimberly (Benny) Tanner and Helen Hickman Avant all of Louisville, MS. Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and other relatives and friends.

Christine Louise Graham

Mrs. Christine Louise Graham, 89, of Louisville, MS., passed on Sunday, August 1, 2021, at the Oktibbeha County Medical Center, Starkville, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, August 7, 2021 at 11 a.m., from Beck Funeral Home. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Hopewell United Methodist Church Cemetery, Louisville, MS. Mrs. Graham was born July 21, 1932, in Winston County Mississippi to the parents of Earl Haynes and Eddie Barron. She is survived by her children; David Graham and Carol Graham both of Louisville, MS., Donnie(Charlene) Graham of Forney, TX., and Dwight (Donice) Graham of Starkville, MS; grandchildren, 7 Grands, 7 Great grands, and a host of Nieces, Nephews and other in-laws and family. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

William Grayson Watson

William Grayson Watson was born at 10:36 pm on April 1, 1999, in Starkville, MS. He left this Earth at 11:57 a.m. on July 31, 2021. He spent his whole life at his home in the Morgantown Community of Oktibbeha County, and he thrived in every minute of it. He was an active member of Morgan Chapel Baptist Church and outspoken about his faith in Jesus Christ. He loved to hunt and shoot. He loved riding horses, motorcycles and 4 wheelers. He loved his dog Charlie very much. Gray was an automotive technician at Watson Automotive and was really beginning to get comfortable in his career.

 
He was recently engaged to Ms. Shelbie Brown of West Point, and they had just set the wedding date for June 4, 2022. Gray and Shelbie were anxiously in the process of planning the wedding. Gray loved his family, friends, fiancé, and dog. Most of all, he had a strong desire to know God and to make him known.

Gray was survived by his parents, Jim and Brenda Watson of Sturgis; brothers, Taylor (Sissy) Watson and Reid (Mary) Watson both of Sturgis; his grandmother, Bennie Watson of Griffin, GA and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Sidney Elaine Watson, nephew Elijah Tuck Watson, paternal grandfather Murphy Watson, and both maternal grandparents, Tommie and Earnestine Beasley.

Services are scheduled for Wednesday, August 4, 2021, at Morgan Chapel Baptist Church in Sturgis, MS. Visitation will be from 10-12 with the chapel service immediately following at 12:00. Burial will be in the Morgan Chapel Church Cemetery in Sturgis, MS.

Roy Lamar Edwards

Roy Lamar Edwards, 83, passed away on Monday, August 2, 2021, at Winston Medical Center in Louisville, Mississippi. Graveside services and interment will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, August 6, 2021, at Spears Family Cemetery in Winston County, Mississippi, with Rev. Austin Bishop officiating.

Roy was born November 19, 1937, to Roy and Annie Johnson Edwards in Louisville, Mississippi. He enjoyed gardening and was known as a Master tomato gardener as he had his own method of growing beautiful tomatoes. He was also an avid fisherman and loved to play basketball in his younger years. Roy retired after devoting many years to Jitney Jungle grocery store.

Roy is survived by his wife of 64 years Reba Spears Edwards of McCool. He is also survived by his children: Donald (Brenda) Edwards of Woodville, Texas, Daniel Edwards, and David (Gena) Edwards all of McCool, June (Wayne) Goodin of Louisville, and Joyce Baggett of Morton, Mississippi. One of his greatest joys was being “Boss” to his 8 grandchildren: Allen Shaw, Nicole Denley, Morgan Baggett, Aleah Baggett, Jessica Edwards, Evan Edwards, David Edwards, Jr., and Tori Edwards as well as his 14 great-grandchildren and he was looking forward to the birth of another great-grandchild soon. Roy also leaves behind four sisters: Mollie Allen, Christine Avery, Carolyn Edwards, and Linda Mitchell. He was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother Hugh Edwards.

 
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.