Jenny Lee Mayo

Mrs. Jenny Lee Mayo, 71, passed away on Monday, April 25, 2022, at her home in Noxapater, MS. A graveside service and interment will be held at 2:00 P. M. on Wednesday, April 27th, at Indian Springs Cemetery, with Rev. Franklin Smith officiating. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Jenny was born March 19, 1951, in Macon, MS. She was a homemaker and a member of Indian Springs Assembly of God Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mae Modean and Davis Hemphill.

She is survived by her husband, Bobby Mayo of Noxapater; a daughter, Lynn Mayo Littrell of Noxapater, a son, Jimmy (Laura) Mayo of Michey, TN; a brother, Sherrill Hemphill of New Caney, TX; and three grandchildren, Marcus Littrell, Justin Mayo, and Brandon Mayo.

Pallbearers will be Marcus Littrell, Justin Mayo, Chase Jordan, Jonathan Massey, Tim Boatner, and Eddie Ellenburg.

Memorials may be made to Indian Springs Assembly of God Church.

Troy Lee Taylor

Troy Lee Taylor, 86, passed away on Tuesday, April 26, 2022, at Winston Medical Center Nursing Home in Louisville, Mississippi. Graveside services and interment will be 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 27 in the Poplar Flat Cemetery with Bro. Doug Wise officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home.

Troy was born August 8, 1935, to Ervin and Willie Bell Roberts Taylor in Louisville. He was a member of Poplar Flat Baptist Church. Troy worked as a welder at Taylor Machine Works until his retirement after 39 years of service. He was an avid outdoorsman; a modern-day mountain man! He loved hunting and trapping; and he enjoyed fishing so much that it earned him the nickname “Catfish!”

Troy is survived by his children: Kim Ming and husband Keith of Louisville, Chad Taylor also of Louisville, LeeAnne Kilgore and husband Jason of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Mark Nowell and wife Reba of Ackerman, Mississippi. One of his greatest joys was being “Papaw” to his grandson Cody (Anna) Ming; his three great-granddaughters: Mila, Emmy, and Joy Hayes Ming; and he was looking forward to the birth of his fourth great-granddaughter in May. Troy also leaves behind loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife Brenda Taylor; the mothers of his children Betty Jo Taylor and Lynn Taylor; his son Rex Taylor; his parents; and four siblings: Loretta Hawkins, Frances Parker, Gail Tabor, and an infant twin brother, Roy Taylor.

The family requests that memorials in honor of Troy be given to Poplar Flat Baptist Church, P. O. Box 684, 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.

Bro. Grady Crowell

Bro. Grady Crowell, 85, passed from this world to his heavenly home on Saturday, April 23, 2022, at the Grenada Living Center in Grenada, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 12 p.m. Thursday, April 28 at Murphy Creek Baptist Church with Bro. Dennis Coats officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the church. Interment will immediately follow the service in Murphy Creek Cemetery.

He was lovingly referred to as “Bro. Grady” by everyone, including his family and friends. Bro. Grady was born to Minor and Maggie Carr Crowell on July 16, 1936. He was raised in Winston County and was born again at Murphy Creek Baptist Church in 1949. Bro. Grady felt the call to the ministry in 1957. In June 1963, Bro. Grady married the love of his life, Martha Ann. His new wife happily went with him wherever they felt the call to go. In December 1979, Bro. Grady accepted the position as Associational Missions Director of Clarke County, serving in this position for 38 years, retiring in December 2017. “One of the delights of my life is sharing gospel tracts,” said Bro. Grady. “My joy in life—spiritual joy—is sharing Jesus with others with a goal of leading them to faith in Christ if they will accept Him,” exclaimed Bro. Grady. “If they won’t, then I will at least sow the seed. They will go to Heaven if they trust Jesus and get saved.”

Bro. Grady is survived by his daughter Naomi McCaffrey and husband Tim of Grenada, Mississippi. One of his greatest joys was being “Papaw” to his grandchildren: Joshua (Allison) McCaffrey, Jordan (Chandler) McCaffrey, and Sarah (Kyle) Nations, as well as his great-grandchildren Asher, Archie, Anderson and Blakely McCaffrey. He also leaves behind his brother Jim (Nancy) Crowell and a host of loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Bro. Grady was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years Martha Ann Crowell and his parents.

Serving as pallbearers are family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that Gideon Bibles be purchased in honor of Bro. Grady.

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.

Ester Taylor

Ester Taylor, age 94, passed away on Saturday, April 23, 2022, at the State Veterans Home in Kosciusko, Mississippi. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 28 at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville, Mississippi, and one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Funeral services will be 12 p.m. Friday, April 29 at Poplar Flat Baptist Church with Dr. Jim Futural and Bro. Doug Wise officiating. Interment will immediately follow the service in Poplar Flat Cemetery with full military honors.

Ester was born November 20, 1927, to John and Virgie Bagwell Taylor in Winston County, Mississippi. He was a devout Christian and a member of Poplar Flat Baptist Church.

He was a combat veteran who served as a corporal in the 25th Infantry “Tropic Lightning” Division of the US Army during the Korean War, where he was awarded the Bronze Star with V for Valor.

After returning from war, he married Marjorie Clark and worked for Southern Natural Gas until his retirement.

He was a popular and upstanding member of the local community, an avid member of “Wrinkled Roosters” coffee club. He loved mission work and relished his trips to build churches for those in need. He loved fishing and crappie across the state feared for their lives every spring.

His loved ones will remember him as a loving husband, father and grandfather. Ester is survived by two daughters Patti Rushton and husband Ronnie of Brandon, Mississippi, and Debra Coward and husband Dell of Louisville. One of his greatest joys was being “Granddaddy” to his six grandchildren: Trey (Andrea) Jordan, Christy Jacobson, Dawn (Heath) Dyer, Brandy Stevenson, Lauren Hill, and Carlee Hill. He also enjoyed his eight great-grandchildren: Owen Jordan, Ethan Jacobson, Michael (Emily) Dyer, Nick Dyer, Trace Dyer, Canon Dyer, Josiah Stevenson and Zoe Kate Usry. He also leaves behind loving nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Ester was preceded in death by his wife Marjorie Taylor; his daughter Susan Jordan; his parents; four brothers: Burtron, J.B., Freeman, and Morris Taylor; and five sisters: Gladys Merritt, Allie Mae Cockrell, Bonnie Ellis, Bessie Alene Taylor and Mattie Doris Taylor.

Honorary pallbearers are the men’s Sunday School Class at Poplar Flat. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that all gifts be made to the Susan Jordan Memorial Scholarship at Mississippi State University. Memorials may be made through the MSU Foundation and designated for the Susan Jordan Memorial Scholarship. Commitments may be made online at www.msufoundation.com or checks payable to the MSU Foundation, Inc. may be mailed to PO Box 6149, Mississippi State, MS 39762.

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 Perkins

Funeral services for Bobby Perkins will be held Tuesday, April 26, 2022 at 2 pm from Coye Assembly of God Church with Rev. Brian McDonald officiating. Burial will follow in Coye Community Cemetery. Visitation will be held Monday April 25, 2022 from 5-8 at McClain-Hays Funeral Home and one hour prior to services at Coye Assembly of God Church. McClain-Hays Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Perkins, 66, of Waveland, Ms., died Saturday, April 23, 2022
Bobby was a native of Claremont Harbor, MS and a resident of Waveland, MS since 2011 and prior lived in Preston Community of Winston County. He worked as a boat captain for offshore supply and served in the U.S. Navy during Vietnam in search and rescue. Mr. Perkins was Assembly of God.

Survivors include his wife, Clynda Perkins of Waveland, Ms; sons, Chad Perkins (Mary) of Longview, Texas and Chris Parker (Shelbie) of Cisco, TX; daughter, Desiree Parker of Texarkana, TX; grandchild, Kyndall Parker; expectant grandchild, Shyann McDowell Parker; Sister, Lynn Lewall (James) of Purvis, MS; sister-in-law, Diane Perkins of Waveland, MS; mother-in-law, Margaret McDonald of Preston, MS; a host of nieces, nephews and their families.

Mr. Perkins was preceded in death by his son, B.J. Perkins; parents, Robert and Viola Perkins; brother, Walter Perkins; father-in-law, Yates McDonald.

Judge George Madison Mitchell, Jr.

Judge George Madison Mitchell, Jr. of Eupora, Mississippi died in the early morning hours of April 19, 2022. If you ever knew George Mitchell, you would remember. His lion’s growl would scare all but those who knew him best; that said, he was a kitten at heart. George was a fighter and a servant, from the jungles of Vietnam to the courtrooms of Mississippi. He was as hard as he was tender, and he was as funny as he was stern. A follower of Christ in word and deed, a patriot who sacrificed much for his country, and a loving father and grandfather, George will be greatly missed. Among his many hobbies – from classic cars to guns – his favorite was being cantankerous.

To those who knew him it is a bit ironic that George Madison Mitchell, Jr. was born on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1945 to George M. Mitchell, Sr. and Lenora Oliver Mitchell in Winona, Mississippi. After the untimely death of his mother, George went to live with his grandparents, Oscar and Minnie Oliver. They raised him well, as anyone who knew him could honestly testify.

After graduating from Mississippi State in 1968, George was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force. He served with distinction in Vietnam. He continued service in both the Mississippi Air National Guard and the United States Air Force Reserve. He retired with the rank of Colonel and the honorary designation as a Brigadier General, one of his proudest accomplishments.

Upon his return from Vietnam, George attended and graduated law school at the University of Mississippi. Thankfully, the “diploma privilege” was in place and he never had to sit for the bar examination. After his graduation in 1975, George clerked for fellow Euporan Justice Robert P. Sugg at the Mississippi Supreme Court and spent the next 40 years serving his clients and his community. From 1986 to 2004, George served as the Webster County Prosecuting Attorney. And for perhaps his favorite role, in 2016, Governor Phil Bryant appointed George to serve as a Circuit Court Judge for the Fifth Circuit Court District. He held that post until his death. Almost every judge who served Mississippi in the past fifty years and every client he ever represented remember him well and can hear his voice as they read this obituary.

George would like most to be remembered as a loving father and grandfather. And he did well in that regard. He is survived by his son, Matt Mitchell (Melissa) of Houston, Texas and his daughter, Mandy Mitchell Davis (Richard) of Jackson, Mississippi, all of whom loved and honored him dearly. He is also survived by his three grandchildren: Lenora Natalia Mitchell, Abigail Lou Mitchell, and Oliver Ward Davis.

Visitation will be held at Oliver Funeral Home in Eupora, Mississippi on April 25, 2022 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on April 26, 2022 at Walthall Baptist Church in Walthall, Mississippi beginning at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at the North Mississippi Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Kilmichael, Mississippi. Any memorials should be sent to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund or the Walthall Baptist Church Benevolent Fund. To most honor his name, George would want you to stand tall in the face of evil and to protect those who can’t protect themselves. That is what he spent his life fighting for, and that is something that would please him without end.

Joel A. Holloway

Joel A. Holloway passed away on Saturday, April 23, 2022, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Eupora, MS. Joel was born April 20, 1937, in Calhoun County, Mississippi, to W.T. and Clara(Hood) Holloway. He was 85 years old. Joel was a retired electronic technician. He was a member of Clear Springs Baptist Church.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 27, 2022, 11:00 a.m., at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS, with Rev. Jim Rhodes officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service time at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Wood Springs Cemetery near Eupora, MS. Pallbearers will be Jason Holloway, Glen Morgan, Mitch McKinney, Justin Blake, Kevin Null, and Lee Wallace.

Joel is survived by his wife, Sarah(Johns) Holloway of Mathiston, MS; 2 daughters, Melissa(Don) Williamson of Chelsea, AL, and Rita Gardner of Davenport, IA; 1 brother, Wren(Florene) Holloway of Mathiston, MS; 4 grandchildren, Shelby Williamson, Kathryn Williamson, Morgan Williamson, and Tegan(Lee) Wallace.

Joel was preceded in death by his first wife, Faye(Peacock) Holloway; his parents; 1 brother and 1 sister who died as infants.

Memorials may be made to the Wood Springs Cemetery Fund or to the Parkinsons Foundation (200 S.E. First St., Suite 800, Miami, FL 33131.

Sandra Dean “Ma Bell” Bell

Sandra D. "Ma Bell" Bell passed away on Friday, April 22, 2022, at Oktibbeha County Hospital in Starkville, MS. Mrs. Bell was born December 18, 1946, in Drew, Mississippi, to Devere and Waudean(Pigg) Lowe. She was 75 years old. Mrs. Bell was a retired Dillard's Associate. She was affiliated with the Ackerman Baptist Church.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 26, 2022, 2:00 p.m., at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS, with Rev. Danny Irvin officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service time at the funeral home. Burial will follow on Wednesday, April 27th, at West Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery in Memphis, TN.

Mrs. Bell is survived by 1 daughter, Katherin Dean Bell of Starkville, MS; 2 sons, Mervin Gene(Jackee) Bell, Jr. of Indianapolis, IN, and William Patterson Bell of Starkville, MS; 7 grandchildren, Brigman Bell, Brooke Bell, Presley Bounds, Joey Houser, Brittnie Chism, Patterson Bell, and Parker Bell; 8 great-grandchildren with one on the way, Sayla Houser, Clay Chism, Liam Bell, Lucca Houser, Brenlee Kate Bell, Isaiah, Houser, Sophia Grace Bell, Lochlan Bell, and little Olivia Bell who will be arriving in August.

Mrs. Bell was preceded in death by her husband, Mervin Gene Bell, Sr; her parents, 1 brother, and 1 sister.

Teresa K. Prince Green

Wife, mother, grandmother, and sister…Teresa Green’s love of life did not come to an end with her death. Teresa K. Prince Green, 55, passed away on April 23, 2022, at her residence in Louisville, Mississippi, with her loving family by her side after a long courageous battle with cancer. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 30, 2022, in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Michael Wells officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home from 10:00 a.m. until service time. Interment will be a private family service at a later date.

Teresa was born on December 26, 1966, to Frank Smith and Nell Adams in DeKalb, Mississippi. She was a member of Ellison Ridge Baptist Church. Her loved ones will continue to honor her legacy by living life to the fullest. Her pleasant personality was contagious to everyone she met.

Teresa’s world revolved around her family and friends. She is survived by her husband Raymond Green of Louisville, and her children: Eric (Danielle) Prince of Millport, Alabama, Nicky (Eric) Trosper and Billy Green all of Louisville, and her father Frank (Mary) Smith of Salt Lick, Kentucky. One of her greatest joys was being “MeMe” to her six grandchildren: Ella Prince, Brooklyn Prince, Aiden Prince, Matthew Prince, Elizabeth Prince, and Lillian Trosper. Teresa is also survived by two sisters Lisa Lee and Geneane Smith; her brothers Keith (Renee) Smith, Alan (Melissa) Smith, William Smith, Donald Harris and Ronald (Kimberly) Harris; as well as a host of loving nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by two sons Matthew Mooney and Jeff Prince, her mother Nell Adams, her sister LeAnne Smith, her grandparents Dick and Virginia Adams, and her niece Nicki Lee.

The family requests in lieu of flowers that memorials in honor of Teresa 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.

Stacey Dale Ricks

Funeral service for Mr. Stacey Dale Ricks will be held 2:30 PM Sunday, April 24, 2022, at John E. Stephens Chapel. Interment will be in the Bethlehem Cemetery in Four Corners. Visitation will be held 5-8 Saturday, April 23, 2022, at John E. Stephens Chapel.Mr. Ricks, 47, passed away Monday, April 18, 2022, at St. Dominic Jackson Memorial Hospital.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, James L. (Hap) Gentry and Dorthey Fedrick Gentry, Johnny Clarence Ricks and Opal Clark Ricks; Uncles, Gary Todd and Jerry Ricks.

Survivors include his mother, Connie Gentry Glenn of Philadelphia; father, Dorris Ricks of Brandon; sister, Anna Grace Savell (Thomas) of Brandon; Aunts and Uncles, Jan Todd of Phila, Rudolph Gentry (Carol) of Phila., Ronda Chisolm (Craig) of Phila., Joyce Way (Bill Rush) of Tampa, FL., Nell Ricks of Brandon, Jimmy Ricks (Diane) of Macon, Alice Ricks of Noxapater, Mary Jo Ricks of Louisville, Linda Waltman (Danny) of Starkville, Marie Wilson (Woody) of Starkville, Randy Ricks (Barbara) of Kosciusko, Billy Joe Ricks (Tammy) of Starkville, Gayle Newman (Ed) of Ethel and a host of cousins.

Stacey started with MEMA in 2006 as a Floodplain Management Specialist. Later that year Stacey passed the Certified Floodplain Manager’s exam and became a Certified Floodplain Manager. He became the State National Flood Insurance Program Coordinator and Bureau Director of Floodplain Management in 2011.

Stacey has accomplished many things while at MEMA. In 2020 Stacey received the Best State NFIP Compliance Office Award. He served as the Association of State Floodplain Management Regulations Committee presently and held the title of Secretary in recent years. He has trained State Coordinators, Local elected officials, Congressional staff, Floodplain Manager and a host of others on the rules, regulations and policies of the NFIP. Stacey’s expertise in his field has led the Floodplain Management Bureau to be deemed and Advanced First Tiered State by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Pallbearers: MEMA Staff, John Cox, Todd Demuth, Caleb Hewitt, Jonathan Hughes, Julius Green, Brent Miller, Garreth Deklerk, Kevin Wade

Honorary Pallbearers: Jana Henderson, Angela Sandifer, Monique Draper-Ousby, Nicole Pressley, Amber Clincy, Al Goodman, Starndra Thomas, Denise Gray Hunt, Dimaya Randle, Cheyenne Draughon.

Nick Elias Papalambros

Nick Elias Papalambros, 61, of Westville, Indiana passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Wednesday, April 20, 2022. 

He was born March 6, 1961 in Hammond, Indiana to Louis & Dorothy (Rogers) Papalambros and graduated from Highland High School in 1979. Nick made his career with Munster Steel for 35 years in their Maintenance Division. He was proud to serve as Business Advisor and Treasurer of Shopmen’s Local #473 of the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers. Nick was an avid hunter and fisherman, embracing every season and species.

Survivors include Tammy Smiley of Westville, daughter, Nikki (Joseph) Popa of Mills Creek, North Carolina, son Joshua (Tiffany) Smiley of Wheatfield, his mother, Dot Papalambros of Louisville, Mississippi, siblings, Maria Ball, Gus (Renee) Papalambros, Angela Papalambros, Thomas (Somer) Papalambros, grandchildren, Easton, Everly & Caladin, and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Louis Papalambros, and twin grandsons, Liam & Gracin.

A visitation will be held Saturday from 12 noon – 2:00 pm at Angelcrest Cemetery Chapel, 180 E. 600 N., Valparaiso, Indiana with funeral service beginning at 2:00 pm and burial to follow at Angelcrest Cemetery.

Don B. Murphy

Don B. Murphy, Sr. passed away Wednesday, April 20, 2022, at his residence in Ackerman, MS. 

Don was born April 18, 1940, in Choctaw County, MS, to James Wilson and Dennie L.(Chaney) Murphy. He was 82 years old and a member of Salem Independent Methodist Church near Ackerman, MS.  Before retiring, Don was employed by Hackney, Inc. in Ackerman, MS for many years. 

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, April 24, 2022, 2:00 p.m., at Salem Independent Methodist Church near Ackerman, MS. Visitation will be held Saturday, April 23, 2022, 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, and one hour prior to service time on Sunday at the church. Burial will follow in the Salem Cemetery.

Don is survived by his wife, Jeanne Murphy of Ackerman, MS; one daughter, Regina (Vaughan) Jones of Ackerman, MS; one son, Brennon (Renee) Murphy of Ackerman, MS; two step-daughters, Vicki (Brian) Bruce-Bankston of Weir, MS, and Lori (Chris) Busby of Ackerman, MS; 7 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Don was preceded in death by his wife, Sarah (Andrews) Murphy; his parents; Dane and Nason Neely who raised him; four brothers, three sisters, and one great-grandson.
Memorials may be made to Salem Cemetery Fund.

Benford Wallace

Funeral service will be held at 2 pm Saturday, April 23, 2022 at Nanih Waiya Mennonite Church with interment in the church cemetery. Visitation will begin at 1 PM Friday, April 22, 2022 at Nanih Waiya Mennonite Church.

Mark Warren Bruce

Mark Warren Bruce passed away on Sunday, April 17, 2022, at Baptist Hospital in Jackson, MS. Mark was born December 24, 1956, in Ackerman, MS to Boyce and Mary Alice(Black) Bruce. He was 65 years old.

After graduation from Ackerman High School in 1974, Mark was employed with Sam Oswalt & Sons for many years until accepting employment with Georgia Pacific in Louisville, MS, where he worked until the business closed. Mark then went into business for himself doing carpentry work. In 2020 Mark took office as District 5 Supervisor for Choctaw County. Mark was a hard worker, but was also an avid fisherman and enjoyed camping and spending time with his grandkids. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and was an active member of his church at Enon Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Ackerman, MS.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 21, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at Enon Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Ackerman, MS, with Rev. Jerry Lawson and Rev. Rob Faulk officiating. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 20, 2022, 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS. There will also be an hour's visitation on Thursday, April 21, 2022, prior to service time at 2:00 p.m. at the church.

Active pallbearers will be Joey Stephenson, Taylor Stephenson, Chance Taylor, Gage McGlothin, Alan Whittington, and Chris Rosamond. Honorary pallbearers will be John Shumaker, Chris McIntire, Greg Fondren, Steve Montgomery, Brent McKnight, Pete Wear, and David Oswalt.

Mark is survived by his wife of 45 years, Betty (Spears) Bruce; 1 daughter, Lindsey Ward of Caledonia, MS; 1 son, Ryan Bruce of Ackerman, MS; his parents, Boyce and Mary Alice(Black) Bruce of Ackerman, MS; 1 brother, Todd(Mary) Bruce of Ackerman, MS; 1 sister, Sherry(David) Jones of Madison, MS; and 3 grandchildren, Moss Bruce, Mattie Ryan Ward, and Markslee Mabrey.

Mark was preceded in death by his grandparents.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105……Donor Services 800-822-6344.

Thomas Hayes Mayo

Thomas Hayes Mayo, 21, died on Thursday, April 14, 2022, in Oxford, Mississippi. Visitation will be held Monday, April 18, 2022, from 10:30 A.M. until 2:30 P.M. in West Hall at Waller Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow at 3:00 P.M. at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church with The Reverend Jody Burnett officiating. A private graveside service will be held at a later date in Oxford Memorial Cemetery.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, on April 2, 2001, Thomas was a junior at the University of Mississippi and a proud member of Sigma Chi Fraternity.

The youngest of four children, Thomas never wanted for or shied from attention. He loved his family, his friends, and life. Thomas never met a stranger. His amazing smile and genuine interest in people broke down all barriers. He seldom uttered negative words or thoughts about anyone. He saw good everywhere and in everybody.

Thomas is survived by his parents, Cal and Caroline Mayo of Oxford; his sister, Virginia Coan and her husband, Fletcher, along with his nephew and namesake, Hayes Fletcher Coan, of Atlanta, Georgia; his brother, William Mayo and his wife, Caroline of Atlanta, Georgia; and his sister, Callie Mayo and her fiancé, Quinn McCarthy of Nashville, Tennessee. He is also survived by his grandmother, Stella Salmon of Oxford. Thomas was loved by and loved in return his aunts, uncles, and cousins. Thomas also leaves his girlfriend, Georgia Hippe, of Atlanta, Georgia, and other friends too numerous to list.

Contributions in Thomas’ memory may be made to the William Magee Center at the University of Mississippi or the James and Sandra Mayo Scholarship Endowment at the University of Mississippi Foundation, 406 University Avenue, Oxford, MS 38655 or to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 113 S. 9th Street, Oxford, MS 38655.

Peggy Jane Baxter

Peggy Jane Baxter passed away on Friday, April 15, 2022, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Eupora, MS. 

Mrs. Baxter was born January 19, 1940, in Oktibbeha County, MS to Hallie and Annie Laura(Hartness) Jones. She was 82 years old. Mrs. Baxter was a retired nursing assistant. She attended Concord Baptist Church.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 18, 2022 at 11:00AM at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS, with Maury Jones officiating. Visitation will be held on Monday, April 18, 2022, 10:00 a.m. until service time at Coleman Funeral Home.

Mrs. Baxter is survived by 1 daughter, Kathy Jenkins of Starkville, MS; 2 sisters, Pam and Frances; 8 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren; and a long-time friend/family member Rebecca Oswalt.

Preceded in death by her husband, Ollie Baxter, her parents, and 3 sons, Danny, Kenneth, and Charles Baxter.

Memorials may be made to the American Lung Association.

Ted Fuller Heath

Ted Fuller Heath, 61, passed away on April 12, 2022, at his home in Jackson, Mississippi. Graveside memorial services and interment will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, April 18, 2022, at Pleasant Hill Cemetery with Bro. David Addy officiating.

Ted was born on June 7, 1960, to Wade and Sue Pearson Heath in Louisville, Mississippi. He is survived by three sisters Millie Heath Slay and husband Scotty of Clinton, Mississippi, Sharon Heath of Louisville, and Glenda Dempsey of Philadelphia, Mississippi. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother Wade Heath.

Memorials in honor of Ted may be given to Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church, 445 Giffin 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.

Darius Treyvon Kennedy

Darius Treyvon Kennedy, 18, of Weir, MS., passed on Sunday, March 27, 2022 in Ackerman, MS. Funeral arrangements will be Saturday, April 16, 2022 at 2 p.m., from Gospel Temple Church of God in Christ, Ackerman, MS., Visitation will be Friday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home, Weir location. Burial will be in the Enon Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Weir in charge of arrangements.

Duran Hickman

Duran Hickman, 39, of Gallatin, Tennessee, formerly of Louisville, MS., passed on Sunday, April 10, 2022, at the Sumner Regional Medical Center, Gallatin, Tennessee. Funeral Service will be Saturday, April 16, 2022, at 2 p.m., from Mount Bell Missionary Baptist Church, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Friday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Oliver Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Gary Hunt Nowell

Gary Hunt Nowell, 70, of Madison was called to be with Jesus, his wife of 48 years, Kathy Mae Kitchings Nowell and parents, Harold B. Nowell and Genece H. Nowell on April 9, 2022. He was born in Jackson, MS January 22, 1952. He graduated from Kosciusko High School, from Mississippi College undergraduate, Masters of Science from University of Mississippi and Doctorate of Medicine from University of Mississippi.

Gary is survived by his three children: Marianna Hydrick (Bronson) of Clinton, MS, Garret Hunt Nowell (Elizabeth) Columbia, MO, and Gavin William Nowell (Lacy) Brandon, MS. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren: TJ Hydrick (Clinton), Caleb and Grayson Nowell (Columbia, MO), and Liam, Ceci, and Anne Wilder Nowell (Brandon, MS). His siblings include Cindy Cruise (James) Clinton, MS, Janet Massey (Al) Noxapater, MS, and Joseph Gwen Nowell (Liza) Fairbanks, AL and 2 nephews, Hal Nowell and Russ C. Nowell of Louisville. He was also predeceased by his brother, Harold Bernard Nowell, Jr.

 
Poppy, as he was known by his grandchildren, practiced internal medicine for 43 years in Mississippi. He served as Chief of Staff at River Oaks Hospital and St. Dominic’s Hospital during his time. He started his Internal Medicine practice in Jackson, MS in 1982.

Gary impacted and saved many lives via his strong convictions, Christ-like example, and caring heart that touched so many lives. He will be missed but remains in our hearts with the confidence that he and our mother are waiting for us to join them in heaven.

A visitation will be held at Parkway Funeral Home in Ridgeland, Mississippi on Wednesday, April 13, 2022 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. Funeral services will take place at Broadmoor Baptist Church in Madison, Mississippi on Thursday, April 14, 2022 at 12:00 pm, with visitation one hour prior.

Frankie Culwell

Ms. Frankie Culwell, 98, passed away on April 11, 2022, at Winston Medical Center Nursing Home in Louisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 14, 2022, in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Rob Faulk officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home from 12:30 p.m. until service time. Interment will be in BethEden Church Cemetery.

Frankie was born on March 9, 1924, to Stan and Tilda Haines Maddox in Savannah, Tennessee. She was a member of South Louisville Baptist Church. Frankie loved to cook and was known for feeding anyone who happened to show up at her door, especially Bro. Rob while he was serving as her pastor!

She is survived by her daughter Dot Eaves, her son Jerry Culwell and wife Sandra, and son-in-law Bobby Joe Todd all of Louisville, Mississippi. One of her greatest joys was being “Mama Frankie” to her five grandchildren: Lisa Strickland; Melissa (Rusty) Foster, Jeff (Molly) Culwell, Ryan (Brooke) Eaves, and Cassandra (Chris) Brannon. Ms. Culwell is also survived by her 11 great-grandchildren: Blake (Emily) Williamson, Missy (John) Williamson, Brock Strickland, Tyler (Kacy) Foster, Makenna (Jon) Boyles, Branson Eaves, Anna Rose Eaves, Nick Culwell, Bobby Culwell, Shan Brannon, and Landi Rae Brannon; as well as her three great-great-grandchildren: John Cole Williamson, Paisley Rae Williamson, and Shelby Williamson, and a host of loving nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband Bobby Culwell, her daughter Jo Helen Todd, her parents, her son-in-law Mike Eaves, and seven siblings.

Serving as pallbearers are Shan Brannon, Bobby Culwell, Nick Culwell, Tyler Foster, Brock Strickland, and Blake Williamson. Memorials in honor of Frankie 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.

Monch Amazie Jernigan

Monch Amazie Jernigan, 76, of Louisville, MS., passed on Thursday, April 7, 2022, at his home. Funeral Service will be Saturday, April 16, 2022, at 11 a.m., from Mount Sinai Missionary Baptist Church, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Friday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Shirley Joan "Jo" Speaks Taylor

Shirley Joan "Jo" Speaks Taylor, 85, passed away on Saturday, April 9, 2022, at Choctaw County Nursing Home in Ackerman, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. on Monday, April 11, in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Chaplain Scott Edwards officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 12:30 p.m. until service time at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville. Interment will immediately follow the service in Louisville Memorial Cemetery.

Jo was born May 7, 1936, to Noble and Lucine Ward Speaks in Deemer, Mississippi. She was an active member of South Louisville Baptist Church until her failing health prevented her attendance. Jo enjoyed cooking, working in her flowers and watching her birds. She also enjoyed traveling as well as visiting with others and spending time with her family. For many years, she worked for Spartus Corporation. Later, she worked at Community Counseling Service in Macon until she retired.

Jo is survived by her daughter Jackie Brantley and husband Larry of Louisville. One of her greatest joys was being “MawMaw” to her three grandchildren: Matthew (Stacey) Farish, Tim Farish, and Jessie (Josh) Stennett. She also leaves behind four great-grandchildren whom she dearly loved: Taylor, Hayden, and Gavin Farish and Adelyn Stennett. Jo was preceded in death by her husband Jack Taylor, and two sisters Jean Davis and Linda Speaks.

Serving as pallbearers are Mike Back, Taylor Farish, Jimmy Lovorn, Keith Matzek, Glenn Sisson, and Josh Stennett. Memorials in honor of Jo 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.

Jane Muckleroy O'Kelly

Jane Muckleroy O'Kelly died peacefully at her home April 6, 2022, in Weir, Mississippi. At the time of her death, she was 92. For more than 50 years she was a key contributor to the health and well-being of the region.

Born February 1, 1930, in Cleburne, Texas, she was the fourth child of Paul Yater Muckleroy and Etta Lou Allison. She pursued the calling of nurse, becoming a registered nurse in 1950, after studying at Parkland Hospital Nursing School. It was there she met her husband, a medical student named William Benjamin O'Kelly.

The two moved to Mississippi following completion of their studies, setting first in Cleveland, then in the town of Weir in Choctaw County, where the two would remain for the rest of their respective lives. Up until Ben O'Kelly's death in 1989, the two were partners in life and in the medical practice, and after her husband's death, Jane continued to follow her calling, working in various clinics, hospitals, and the Attala County Nursing Home.

Jane was no less involved in her community than in the field of medicine, becoming an energetic and committed presence in the Methodist Churches of Weir, and, latterly, of Salem. She joined Weight Watchers, first as a member, and then as a leader, further contributing to the health and well-being of the area. In addition, she followed football avidly, keeping statistics for the Weir High School athletic team for upwards of thirty years, and an ardent fan of the Mississippi State Bulldogs and particularly the Dallas Cowboys. She was also an active gardener.

She is survived by four children: Patricia Jane O'Kelly of Washington, D.C.; John William O'Kelly and his wife Christie of Weir; Mary Katherine O'Kelly Lawrence and her husband Benny of Kosciusko; and Robert Kevin O'Kelly, of Somerville, Massachusetts. A fifth child, Paul Barrett O'Kelly, died in infancy. Additionally she is survived by two grandchildren, Joshua William O'Kelly, and his wife Katie, and William Benjamin Lawrence; as well as two great-grandchildren: Tristan William O'Kelly and Savannah Faye O'Kelly. Of her siblings, she is survived by her brother John; her other four siblings—Paul Harris, Helen, Neville, and Marjorie—all preceded her in death.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to Salem United Methodist Church, 4500 McCool Highpoint Road, McCool, MS 39108.

Jose Guadalupe “Lupe” Velazquez Ramirez

Jose Guadalupe “Lupe” Velazquez Ramirez, 57, passed away on Wednesday, April 6, 2022, at his residence in Louisville, Mississippi. Visitation will be Friday, April 8, 2022 from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home. Interment will follow at a later date in Victoria Guanajuato, Mexico.

Lupe was born on December 12, 1964, to Emiliono and Mana Pez Ramirez Velazquez in Mexico. He was of the Catholic faith. Lupe spent most of his life in Louisville. He was a certified welder for Kirk RailCar Enterprise for 25 plus years and worked in construction for the last few years. He enjoyed life on the farm, gardening and growing his flowers. Lupe spent many hours speaking with the love of his life, his wife Carmen on the phone and with other family members. His children describe him as the best father a child could be blessed with, one that worked his entire life providing a better life for his family.

Lupe. is survived by his wife, Carmen Albardo Romero of Mexico, two daughters, Gricelda Valazquez of Austin, Texas and Janeth Valzquez Alvarado; two sons Sergio Velazguez and Venancio Valazquez both of Austin, Texas. He also leaves behind four Remedios Velazquez, Irma Velazquez, Evanjelina Velazquez, and Lorena Velazquez all of Mexico; six brothers, Valdo Velazquez , Alejandro Velazquez, Robert Velazquez, Guilliermo Velazquez all of Mexico, Salvador Velazquez of California, and Moy “Junior” Velazguez of Louisville, Mississippi. Lupe also leaves behind ten grandchildren. He 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.

Kimberly Dawn Moody

Ms. Kimberly Dawn Moody, 46, passed away on Sunday, April 3, 2022, at Baptist Golden Triangle Medical Center in Columbus, MS. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, April 8th, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Trent Jaudon and Rev. Rob Faulk officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 9:00 A.M. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Kimberly was born June 2, 1975, in Louisville, MS. She was a 1994 graduate of Louisville High School, and a graduate of the University of West Alabama, where she received her nursing degree. She worked as an RN at Diamond Grove and Winston Medical Center for many years. She was a member of South Louisville Baptist Church. Kimberly was a loving and giving person, who loved taking care of her patients and especially her animals.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Darlene Scott Moody.

She is survived by her father, Jimmy Moody of Louisville; her sister, Heather (Ryan) Gilmer of Louisville; her brother, David Moody of Louisville; and her nieces and nephews, Wyatt Moody, Sam Gilmer, and Sydney Kate Gilmer.

Pallbearers will be Ryan Gilmer, David Moody, Ryan Korbel, Sam Gilmer, and Wyatt Moody.

Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.

Dr. Terry L. Amburgey, Ph. D.

Dr. Terry L. Amburgey, Ph. D., of Sturgis, Mississippi, passed away at age 81 on Friday, April 1, 2022, at Baptist Medical Center—Golden Triangle in Columbus, Mississippi. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 7, at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church in Bradley, Mississippi, with Rev. Mike Sanders officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 9:30 a.m. until service time at the church. Interment will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, March 8 at Long Beach City Cemetery in Long Beach, Mississippi, with Rev. Mike Sanders officiating.

Terry was born on December 11, 1949, to Samuel and Neva Alberta Amburgey in Trenton, New Jersey. Prior to his retirement, Dr. Amburgey was a professor for 30 years in the College of Forest Resources at Mississippi State University and retired with the title of Giles Distinguished Professor. He received Awards of Merit from both the American Wood Protection Association and the Railway Tie Association and was elected as a Fellow of the International Academy of Wood Science. While at Mississippi State, he was given the title of Giles Distinguished Professor and received several awards for his teaching by the Department of Forest Products, the College of Forest Resources, and the Mississippi State University Alumni Association. Dr. Amburgey’s graduate students have made significant contributions to their chosen fields of employment. His professorship at Mississippi State was preceded by 10 years with the USDA Forest Service in Gulfport, Mississippi, as a Research Wood Decay Specialist.

Terry is survived by his daughter Lauren Shurden and husband Donald of Oak Grove, Mississippi, and his sister Narice Moore. One of his greatest joys was being “PopPop” to his grandson Joshua Ryan Shurden. He was preceded in death by his daughter Danielle Marie Parker, his parents, and his brother Bart Amburgey.

Serving as pallbearers will be H. Michael Barnes, Nate Irby, Shane Kitchens, Brian Lindsey, Kevin Ragon, and Charles Sanders. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those interested in giving a memorial gift in Dr. Amburgey’s name are asked to send donations to the Oktibbeha County Humane Society, P. O. Box 297, Starkville, MS 39760 or to Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church, 3067 Pleasant Ridge Road, Sturgis, MS 39769.

The family would like to express special thanks to his caregiver and friend, Shirley Long, and to the medical staff at Baptist Medical Center and Hospice in Columbus; as well as his pastor and family friend, Mike Sanders.

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.

Margaret Ann Goss

Margaret Ann Goss, 88, of Louisville, MS., passed on Wednesday, March 30, 2022, at the Winston County Hospital, Louisville, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, April 9, 2022, at 1 p.m., from New Zion M. B. Church, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Friday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Carolyn Hunt Black

Carolyn Hunt Black, 79, passed away Monday, March 29, 2022 at the Mississippi Baptist Medical Center in Jackson. Visitation will be Thursday, March 31, 2022 from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Jordan Funeral Home in Kosciusko, and Friday, April 1, 2022 from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at Edgefield Baptist Church in McCool. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 am at Edgefield Baptist Church with interment in the church cemetery. Rev. Curtis Graham and Rev. Tony Black will officiate.

Carolyn was a faithful member of the Edgefield Baptist Church. She will be remembered for the many children and people she took care of in the Edgefield community. 

“Nee Naw” was survived by two sons, Michael (Mitzi) Black of Noxapater and Marcus (Amy) Black of Crossville, TN; one daughter, Paula Black Summerlin of McCool, MS; one sister, Marilyn (Joel) O’Briant of Louisville, MS; five grandchildren, Justin (Amber) Summerlin, Brittany (Brian) Sisson, Courtany Summerlin, Jay (Amanda) Summerlin, and Jordan (Hunter) Black; nine great-grandchildren, Macee Sisson, Hanna Ray Summerlin, Mollie Sisson, Milee Summerlin, Taylor Summerlin, Grayson Hughes, Kip Summerlin, Wyatt Hughes, and Walker Jones; brothers-in-law, Tony (Sherry) Black and Larry (Rachel) Black. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, James “Randy” Black, and her parents, Houston and Clytee Lavada Ray Hunt. 

Pallbearers will be Justin Summerlin, Jay Summerlin, Brian Sisson, Ryan Moyer, Joshua Black, and Jacob Black. 

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Edgefield Baptist Church cemetery fund, c/o Kim Simpson Baugh 4815 Attala Road 5233 McCool, Mississippi 39108.