Norma Grace Weeks Cochran

 Norma Grace Weeks Cochran, 92 years of age, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2023. She was a resident of The Claiborne Assisted Living, Starkville, MS.

Born January 3, 1931 to Mr. and Mrs. John Thomas Weeks (Hattie), Grace is survived by her husband of 73 years, Robert "Bob" Bennett Cochran; two sisters, Dot Miles, and Faye Pittman of Winfield, AL; three daughters, Dinah Clark (Harold), Lynn Infanger (Peter) of Starkville, Nan Woods (Johnny) of Oxford, MS; seven grandchildren and their families, Jill Holland of New Orleans, LA, Natalie Morgan Underwood of Starkville, John Infanger of Roswell, GA, Robert Infanger of Austin, TX, Catherine Infanger of Winston-Salem, NC, Grant Woods of Eads, TN, Michael Woods of Los Angeles, CA; and eight great grandchildren.

Grace grew up with five brothers and five sisters in rural Marion County, Alabama. After graduating from Winfield High School, she attended Florence State Teachers’ College where she was chosen freshman beauty. She married her high school sweetheart, Robert Cochran, in 1950 and began their life of growing their careers in the field of education. Grace attended Delta State, and MS State University to earn 3 degrees over a span of years while teaching and raising three girls. She and Robert realized that every time they moved to a new town and a new job a new baby was on the way, so when moving to Louisville, MS, they settled to raise their family of five. When the girls left for college, a career move to Meridian and then Vicksburg, MS started a new adventure in their lives: traveling with MS Senior Golf Association, trips abroad, flower gardening, working out, Colonial Dance Club, entertaining at home, cooking, and helping raise the grandchildren.

Grace taught for 28 years, completing her career with Hinds Community College. After retirement she and Robert moved to Deerfield Country Club in Madison, MS to continue the life they had planned all their lives.

They lived the life to which they wanted their children to aspire, a life filled with love and devotion to one another.

Private services will be held at Welch Funeral Home in Starkville, MS with the family in attendance and the Reverend Jim Genesse officiating.

Expressions of love and condolence may be sent to Robert Cochran at 74 Claiborne Way, Room #127 AL, Starkville, MS 39759.

Melba "Billie" McAdory Standrod

Mrs. Melba “Billie” McAdory Standrod, 96, passed away on Monday, February 27, 2023, at the Choctaw Residential Center in Philadelphia, MS. A graveside service and interment will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, March 3rd, at Oak Grove Baptist Church Cemetery in Noxapater, MS, with Rev. Tommy Jones officiating. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Billie was born July 1, 1926, in Noxapater, MS. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Orval E. “Temus” McAdory and John Standrod; her parents, Joseph and Mary Dalton Hicks; a son, James McAdory; four brothers, and seven sisters.

She is survived by a son, Mike Flournoy of Felton, DE; two grandchildren, Sonya Logan and Michelle Flanders; two great grandchildren, Elise Logan and Willem Flanders; and one great great grandchild, Chloe Flanders.

Memorials may be made to Oak Grove Baptist Church.

Nita Halfacre Hartness

Mrs. Nita Joy Hartness, 86, passed away on Sunday, February 26, 2023, at Louisville Healthcare in Louisville, MS. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, March 4th, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Junior Davis officiating. Visitation will be Saturday from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will be in Murphy Creek Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Nita was born February 3, 1937, in Winston County, MS. She grew up in the Crystal Ridge-Boon community and attended Bond High School, graduating in 1954. She went on to attend Mississippi State University. At the time of her retirement, she was an executive assistant in the Engineering Research Lab at Mississippi State. She was a lifelong Baptist and was a member of First Baptist Church of Louisville at the time of her passing.

She is survived by two daughters, Robin LeAnne Hartness, and Tami Michelle (Kevin) Whitehead, both of Louisville; one brother, Jimmy (Gina) Halfacre of Jackson, MS; and two granddaughters, Mary Beth Sullivan (Jasmine Gordon) and Allye (Dre) Whitfield as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Hermie Lee and Vivian P. Halfacre, siblings, her sister, Clytee Halfacre Clark, an infant brother, Johnny Halfacre, her brother, Edward Arthur Halfacre and her husband, Arthur Lee Hartness.

Pallbearers will be Dan Curran, John Winstead, Paul Halfacre, Earl Newsome, Ethan Halfacre, Johnny Sullivan, Joseph Whitfield, and Kenny Sullivan.

Memorials may be made in honor of Nita to the American Cancer Society or charity of choice.

Raymond Ray Jenkins

Raymond Ray Jenkins passed away on Saturday, February 25, 2023, at the Choctaw County Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Ackerman, MS. Raymond was born on September 27, 1941, in Choctaw County, MS, to Wesley Samuel and Beulah (Ray) Jenkins. He was 81 years old.

Raymond married Jo Ann (Southern) Jenkins on August 9, 1963, and the two were married for 53 before they were parted on this earth in 2017. Raymond was employed by Mersman in Eupora, MS, until he was disabled in 1974. He was told he wouldn't live to see 50 years, but he beat all the odds and lived to see 81. Raymond was a determined and stubborn man that loved driving fast cars, telling stories in that slow, southern drawl of his, and enjoyed gardening until health issues prevented him from doing so.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 28, 2023, 11:00 a.m., at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS, with Dr. Danny Irvin officiating. Serving as pallbearers will be grandsons and great-grandsons. Visitation will be held on Monday, February 27, 2023, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Coleman Funeral Home.

Raymond is survived by 2 daughters, Peggy Elizabeth Jenkins Steadman (Johnny) of Ackerman, MS, and Patricia Ann Jenkins Coggins (Paul) of West Point, MS; 1 sister, Margie Watkins of Meridian, MS; 9 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Jo Ann (Southern) Jenkins; his parents, Wesley Samuel and Beulah (Ray) Jenkins; 2 sisters, Clara Mae Wilder and Lois King; and 3 brothers, Billy, Homer, and Kelsie Jenkins.

Memorials may be made to the Salem Methodist Cemetery Fund.

Freddie D Ashford

Freddie D Ashford, 87, of Louisville, MS., passed Tuesday, February 21, 2023 at the Winston County Medical Center, Louisville, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, March 4, 2022 at 11 a.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 New Zion Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Mary Doris Young Parke

 Mary Doris Young Parker passed away on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, at the age of 100, surrounded by family. She was born December 8, 1922, to John Floyd and Jessie Price Young. She grew up in the Mt. Pisgah community, south of Noxapater, MS. On April 3, 1946, she married O'Farrell Parker of Lawrence, MS.

She is survived by her son, Mike Parker (Jerene) of Ackerman, and daughter, Janet Jones of Madison. She is also survived by three granddaughters, Lauren Daigle (Christian) of Madison, Michaela Parker of Starkville, and Michelle Parker of Ackerman, and one great-granddaughter, Ella Daigle. She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, four brothers – Robert T. (Pete) Young, John Paul Young, Herbert H. Young, and Mike Young, and one sister – Willene Young Fryery, who was her best friend. She is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews.

She graduated from Kemper County High School. She then received an associate degree in bookkeeping and started working for Turner Hardware in Philadelphia, MS. While working in Philadelphia, she met her husband of 69 years.

Doris was a talented seamstress, making Starkville Academy band uniforms, MSU majorette outfits, and custom drapes. She also made numerous dresses for her granddaughters, with matching dresses for their dolls. One of her favorite hobbies was drawing and painting and even took art classes at MSU when she was 60 years old. She was a wonderful cook, always making her grandchildren’s favorite meals.

Doris had a green thumb and could grow just about anything. She loved spending time in her garden and caring for her numerous flower beds. She was an active member at First Baptist Church of Starkville, teaching Sunday school and serving on various committees until she was 90. She was a wonderful mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who will be dearly missed.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, February 26, from 1-2 PM at First Baptist Church Starkville with the service to follow. Burial will be held at Memorial Garden Park Cemetery in Starkville. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Starkville Children’s Building Fund.

De'Vonta Ryshun McMillian

De'Vonta Ryshun McMillian, 23, of Louisville, MS., passed on Saturday, February 12, 2023, in Louisville, MS. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later by the Beck Funeral Home.

Kathryn Hurt

Kathryn Hurt, 72, of Macon, MS passed away on Monday, February 20, 2023 at Louisville Healthcare in Louisville, MS. Her funeral service will be held at 11:30 AM on Thursday, Feb. 23, at Cockrell Funeral Home, Macon. Bro. Bill Ross will officiate at the service. Interment will follow in the Soule Chapel Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:30 AM until service time. Memorials can be made to First United Methodist Church Macon, P.O. Box 309, Macon, MS 39341. Cockrell Funeral Home of Macon is honored to be entrusted with the service arrangements.

Kathryn Hurt was born on June 21, 1951 in Macon, MS to the late Robert R. Strait and Elsie Otis. She was a native and lifetime resident of Macon, MS and graduated from Noxubee County High School and attended Mississippi State University. Kathryn worked for her father in his fertilizer business and then went on to work for the Mississippi Food Stamp Commission as a clerk. She was the past president of the Macon Junior Auxiliary and a member of the First United Methodist Church in Macon, MS. She enjoyed reading and was an avid Mississippi State University football fan.

Kathryn Hurt is survived by her husband, Bill Hurt; her son, Joseph Neal Hurt of Macon; her daughter, Ruby Mills Campbell of Meridian. She is also survived by her two beloved grandchildren: Samuel Hurt and Jolie Hurt. And a brother, Jimmy Strait, Jackson, TN.

Sydnee Claire Stokes

Sydnee Claire Stokes, 11, a beloved daughter, granddaughter, sister, niece, cousin, and friend unexpectedly transitioned from this world to her heavenly home on February 21, 2023, in Louisville, Mississippi. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. Saturday, February 25 at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville. Funeral services will be Sunday, February 26 in the gymnasium of Nanih Waiya Attendance Center with her uncle, Bro. Brian Jones, and her pastor, Bro. Michael Wells officiating. There will also be visitation on the day of the service in the gym from 1:00 p.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in Ellison Ridge Cemetery.

Sydnee was born on July 8, 2011, to Jay Stokes and Melanie Wall. Sydnee grew up in the Ellison Ridge community, constantly surrounded by friends and family, which she loved. She enjoyed sleepovers with all her best friends, making videos with sisters Hadlee and Logan, playing softball, singing and dancing, playing computer games with brother Knox, and target shooting, hunting, and fishing with her dad. She was a member of Ellison Ridge Baptist Church, where she was baptized by her grandfather Bro. Mark Jones on December 17, 2017. Sydnee attended Nanih Waiya Attendance Center, where she was an honor student and participated in the gifted students’ program. Sydnee loved to dress up and join her friends in the Nanih Waiya Beauty and Beau Review, where she was named Most Beautiful in 2017, 2018, and 2019 and Little Miss Winston County pageants. Sydnee recently made the Nanih Waiya junior high cheerleading squad, where she was excited to cheer next to some of her best friends this fall. Sydnee was a talented artist and enjoyed working with younger students, and hoped to one day attend Mississippi State University to major in either education, like her mother and grandmother, or in interior or graphic design.

Sydnee is survived by her parents, “Big” Jay Stokes (Laura Mitchell) and Melanie (Nick) Wall; her sisters, Hadlee Stokes and Logan Wall; and her brothers, Knox Stokes and Channing Wall. She also leaves behind her grandparents, Edward and Betty Stokes, and Mark and Gale Jones; as well as numerous other family members, classmates, and friends.

Serving as pallbearers are Michael Burt, Derek Eaves, Tyler Graham, Jeff Rogers, Justin Wilkes, and Chris Wilson.

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.

George Hill

George Hill, 86, of Sturgis, Mississippi, passed away on February 19, 2023. George was born one of ten children in Neshoba County to LV and Nellie Chapman Hill on March 2, 1936. He graduated from Arlington High School in Philadelphia, Mississippi and shortly thereafter served in Korea as part of the Army. On June 10, 1960, he married Jennie Gillis in Sturgis, Mississippi. During his professional career he worked as a Prototype Engineer in the furniture industry for over 30 years.

 
Morgan Chapel Baptist Church was his home church, where he faithfully served as Deacon, Chairman of Deacons, Sunday school leader and member of the choir for many years. George had many hobbies including fishing with his children and grandchildren, wood working, gardening, singing gospel music and watching MSU sports. He had a love of nature and was a weather enthusiast. His ever present sense of humor kept family gatherings light hearted and full of laughter. He was happiest when at home with his large family and dog, Lacey.

George is preceded in death by his father, mother, brother (Charles), sister (Pearl), grandson (Cameron), and great-granddaughter (Sarah).
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, brothers, Jerry (Pat) Hill, Wilbur (Sara) Hill, Urshel Hill, Gene (Dana) Hill, Bennie (Debbie) Hill, Dannie (Ann) Hill, Sister, Rachel Jackson, son, Scott (Annice) Hill, daughters, Missy (Stan) Arrington and Ginger (Bo) Keith and grandchildren; Nikki (Michael) Davis, Mandy (Will) Schaub, Thomas (Anna) Arrington, John (Emily) Hill, Will and Ty Keith. Also survived by great grandchildren: Phillip and Ben Davis, Roper Schaub, Luke, Kate and Avery Arrington, Frankie and Stella Hill and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be at Morgan Chapel Baptist Church Sturgis, Mississippi on Thursday, February 23, 2023, at 10:00 A.M. with funeral service immediately following at 11:00. Pallbearers will be Thomas Arrington, John Hill, Will Keith, Ty Keith, Michael Davis, Will
Schaub and Bo Keith.
Memorials may be made to the Baptist Children's Village, PO Box 27, Clinton, MS 39060-0027

Rodger Dale Keene

Rodger Dale Keene, age 74, of Huntsville, AL, passed away Saturday, February 17, 2023. Rodger was born in Louisville, MS on October 11, 1948 to Juanita Mayo and Purvis "Pug" Keene.

Rodger graduated from Louisville, High School, Class of 1966 and continued his education at Mississippi State University. He graduated with a degree in Accounting. His first job after college was as an auditor at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Rodger was a Deacon and Sunday School teacher at First Baptist Church, Huntsville.

Survivors include wife, Susan Miles Keene; children, Julie Keene Blevins (Greg), John Miles Keene (Elizabeth), and Joel Wilson Keene; grandchildren, Benjamin Blevins, Breanna Keene, Abby Blevins, Nathaniel Blevins, Alaina Keene, Zechariah Blevins, Tori Blevins, and Caitlin Keene; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents and a sister, Purvis Delaine Keene.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon Thursday at First Baptist Church, Huntsville, AL. The memorial service will follow with Dr. Travis Collins officiating.

Arrangements are with Laughlin Services in Huntsville, AL. http://www.laughlinservices.com

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mobility Worldwide (P.E.T. (Personal Energy Transport) North Alabama) https://www.petnorthalabama.org, 2011 Seminole Drive, Huntsville, AL 35805, Lincoln Village Ministry, or Meals on Wheels.

Belzonia Davis

Belzonia Davis, age 86 passed away on Wednesday, February 8, 2023. Visitation will be Friday, February 24, 2023 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at Taylor Funeral Home. The funeral service will be Saturday, February 25, 2023 at New Zion Missionary Baptist Church at 11 AM.

James Arnett Triplett

Mr. James Arnett Triplett was born February 16, 1968 in Winston County to the late Mr. Cliston and Lizzie Dell Triplett. James attended Noxapater Attendance Center. James worked as a carpenter until his health failed. He loved to fish and work.
James was his own little comedian. Some of his favorite sayings were: "Look at the fleas on fluffy", "Business is about to pick up", and "If you can 'huh', you can hear". He loved to mock people and clown around and tell jokes. He also loved to dance. He was one of the best harp players around and could sing too. He departed this life on February 12, 2023. James is preceded in death by his parent, two sisters, one brother, and one nephew.
James leaves to cherish his memories: four lovely children Shabrekia Wyatt, Jamichael Triplett (Chasity), Jalisa Triplett, and Shabretta Wyatt; seven lovely grandchildren, two brothers-Lester and James Wess Triplett, two sisters- Carol Hunt (Steve), and Brenda Triplett, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Visitation was on Saturday, February 18, 2023 at Taylor's Funeral Home.

Lesley Whitehead Boatner

Mrs. Lesley Ané Whitehead Boatner, 41, passed away on Monday, February 20, 2023, at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, MS after a long battle with triple negative breast cancer. She was diagnosed in May of 2021, and fought a long, hard fight, but succumbed to leptomeningeal disease.

Funeral services for Lesley will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, February 25th, at First Methodist Church, with Rev. Newlie Long officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Porter Funeral Home. Interment will be in Whitehall Methodist Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Lesley was born September 10, 1981, in Columbus, MS. She was a 2000 graduate of Louisville High School, and earned her degree as a Registered Nurse at East Central Community College. She worked at Winston Medical Center at Turning Point. Lesley loved her children and never missed a sporting event they were involved in. She loved all sports especially Mississippi State Bulldogs and the Dallas Cowboys.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Joan Yarbrough, Truman Whitehead, and Jack Dempsey.

She is survived by her husband, Lenny Boatner; her parents, Susan (John) Dempsey, and Kenneth Whitehead, all of Louisville; her children, Lana Raye Boatner, Libby Jo Boatner, Annie Brooke Boatner, Tanner Ray Boatner, and Beau Alexander Boatner; her brothers, Eric (Angel) Whitehead and Jack Dempsey (Madison Hardage), both of Louisville; her uncle, Bob (Kari) Yarbrough; and two grandmothers, Rubye Whitehead of Louisville, and Mary Dempsey of Dickinson, TX.

Pallbearers will be Jeremy Shaeffer, Mitch Whitehead, C. J. Boatner, Jay McMillin, Brantley Wright, Jack Wooten, Curry Black, and Michael Major. Honorary pallbearers will be Hollis Richardson, Boys of the Winston Academy Class of 2026, and the Rampage Baseball team.

Memorials may be made to First Methodist Church Youth Fund, P. O. Box 523, Louisville, MS, 39339.

Opal Shepherd McBrayer

Mrs. Opal Shepherd McBrayer, 96, passed away peacefully at her home in Louisville on Monday, February 20, 2023. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday, February 22nd, at First Methodist Church, with Rev. Mike Childs officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at First Methodist Church. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Granny O, as she was known to many, was born October 2, 1926, to Willie Martin Shepherd and Ethel Marie Nester Shepherd in Gholson, MS. She attended East Mississippi Community college (Scooba) and Mississippi State University. After graduation, she began her teaching career in which she influenced the lives of many young people. After marrying Royce McBrayer, they attended Louisville First Methodist Church, where she was a member for over 70 years. During those years, one of her fondest memories was teaching youth Sunday school. When not teaching, she attended the Ed Livingston Sunday School Class. She was also active in the community by being a member of the Business and Professional Women’s Club, the Eastern Star, and supporting the Friends of Legion Park. After her teaching career, Opal worked at the ASCS office and retired from the Winston County Welfare Department with 43 years of service to the state. She lived her life as a Christian, always helping and caring for others. She blessed many by sharing fresh vegetables from their garden and her well-known caramel cakes. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend who will be greatly missed.

Opal is preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 67 years, Clinton Royce McBrayer; her sisters, Lois McMullen, Carolyn Rester, Cherry Dailey Stribling; and her brothers, Bo Shepherd, Brooks Shepherd, and John Shepherd.

She is survived by a daughter, Maria McBrayer Hartness (Ricky); granddaughters: Nan Hartness and Bailey (Corey) Coward; great-grandsons, Mac Coward and Bo Coward, all of Louisville; sisters, Madge Fields of Columbus, MS, Sallie Henderson of Boise, ID; Gloria (Charles) Bynum of Hattiesburg, MS; and Faye Coleman of Macon, MS; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Quality Care Hospice, especially Courtney Boatner and Carol Marie Mars for their wonderful and loving care. Also, her family thanks Talishwa Elmore, Aliya Westbrook, and Sherry Duran for the compassionate and loving way they cared for Granny O over the past two years. They are more than caregivers; they have become family.

Pallbearers will be Giles Ward, Charles Bond, Jerry Nance, Moe Yarbrough, Wesley Clark, Steve Triplett, Hap Hickman, Wade Hailey, Lee Verry, Al Porter, Hal Overstreet, Frank Kennedy, Hugh Whiteside, Todd Tabor, and Terrell Bell.

2 Corinthians 5:7 – “for we walk by faith, not by sight.”

Memorials may be made to First Methodist Church, P. O. Box 523, Louisville, MS, 39339.

George Hill

George Hill, 86, of Sturgis, Mississippi, passed away on February 19, 2023. 

George was born one of ten children in Neshoba County to LV and Nellie Chapman Hill on March 2, 1936. He graduated from Arlington High School in Philadelphia, Mississippi and shortly thereafter served in Korea as part of the Army. On June 10, 1960, he married Jennie Gillis in Sturgis, Mississippi. During his professional career he worked as a Prototype Engineer in the furniture industry for over 30 years. Morgan Chapel Baptist Church was his home church, where he faithfully served as Deacon, Chairman of Deacons, Sunday school leader and member of the choir for many years. 

George had many hobbies including fishing with his children and grandchildren, wood working, gardening, singing gospel music and watching MSU sports. He had a love of nature and was a weather enthusiast. His ever present sense of humor kept family gatherings light hearted and full of laughter. He was happiest when at home with his large family and dog Lacey. 

George is preceded in death by his father, mother, brother (Charles), sister (Pearl), grandson (Cameron), and great-granddaughter (Sarah. 

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, brothers Jerry (Pat) Hill, Wilbur (Sara) Hill, Urshel Hill, Gene (Dana) Hill, Bennie (Debbie) Hill, Dannie (Ann) Hill, Sister Rachel Jackson, son Scott (Annice) Hill, daughters Missy (Stan) Arrington and Ginger (Bo) Keith and grandchildren Nikki (Michael) Davis, Mandy (Will) Schaub, Thomas (Anna) Arrington, John (Emily) Hill, Will and Ty Keith. Also survived by great grandchildren Phillip and Ben Davis, Roper Schaub, Luke, Kate and Avery Arrington, Frankie and Stella Hill and many nieces and nephews. 

Visitation will be at Morgan Chapel Baptist Church Sturgis, Mississippi on Thursday, February 23, 2023, at 10:00 A.M. with funeral service immediately following at 11:00. 

Pallbearers will be Thomas Arrington, John Hill, Will Keith, Ty Keith, Michael Davis, Will

Schaub and Bo Keith.

Memorials may be made to the Baptist Children's Village, PO Box 27, Clinton, MS
39060-0027 or online at www.BaptistChildrensVillage.com.

James Louis “Jim” Jones

Visitation: 5PM til 8PM Tuesday February 21,2023 at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS & 10AM til Service Time Wednesday February 22, 2023 at Sturgis Baptist Church in Sturgis, MS. Funeral Service: 11AM Wednesday February 22, 2023 at Sturgis Baptist Church in Sturgis, MS. Interment: McClelland Cemetery near Sturgis, MS.

Dana Marie Ross

Mrs. Dana Marie Ross, 49, passed away on Sunday, February 19, 2023, at her parents’ home in Louisville. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, February 22nd, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Michael Wells and Rev. David Keen officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Interment will be in Ellison Ridge Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Dana was born July 17, 1973, in Louisville, MS. She was a 1991 graduate of Nanih Waiya High School, and a graduate of Mississippi State University, where she earned her Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics. She was an accountant with Hughes Management. Dana loved animals and was active in riding and showing horses for many years. She loved all her animals, especially her cats, Scooter and Moe.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Elvis and Edna VanDevender, and Henry C. and Magdalene Reed.

She is survived by her husband, Bryan Ross; a son, Reed Ross; and her parents, Danny and Deloris Reed, all of Louisville.

Pallbearers will be West Watkins, Mitch Sanders, Jackson Breazeale, Tommy Trosper, Larry Cockrell, and Dwayne Ming. Honorary pallbearers will be Gale Gregory, Bob Allman, and Donnie Duran. Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Culetta Jean Killens

Culetta Jean Killens, 63, passed away on Friday, February 17, 2023, at her home in Louisville, Mississippi. A service in honor and celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

Jean was born in Macon, Mississippi, on April 11, 1959, to William Gray Boykin and Edith Chambers Boykin. She dearly loved her family, whether you were family by birth or by choice! Jean enjoyed cooking and watching murder mysteries. She also loved to cross-stitch and each of her family members have priceless treasures she made for them.

Jean is survived by her children: Sasha Killens, Joshua Rivera, Jessica Killens, Gabrielle Rivera, Tera Climer, Sissy Ashcraft, Marlo Hughes, and Marquentin Love. One of her greatest joys was being “Mutter” to her nine grandchildren: Shemia Oninski, Damien Triplett, Ethan Quillen, Zaelyn Quillen, Dontae Walker, Christian Walker, Kayson Moody, Kolhby Climer, and Kayla Climer; and one great-grandchild, Zeke Crosby; she was looking forward to the birth of another great-grandchild this year. She also leaves behind her siblings: Phyllis Dempsey, Steve Boykin, Beverly Wigle, Pamela Quinn, Matt Boykin, Bubba Boykin, Susan Beasley, Jo Jo Smith, and James Hollis; her step-mother, June Boykin; and her best friends, Gerald Rivera and Karen Cook; as well as a host of loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. 

Jean was preceded in death by her son, Gabriel Rivera; her grandson, Kyler Climer; her parents; siblings: Rocky Boykin, Stan Boykin, Wendy Boykin and Anthony Drewery; and three nephews: Rocky Boykin, Chad White, and Michael Boykin.

Memorials in honor of Jean can be made to Nowell-Massey Funeral Home to help the family with her funeral expenses.

Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 N. Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS 39339. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.

Maxine McCulloch

Mrs. Maxine McCulloch, 96, passed away on Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at Choctaw County Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Ackerman, MS.

Maxine was born on March 26, 1926, in Winston County, MS. She worked many years for the shirt factory and Belwood Industries, both in Ackerman, MS. After retirement, she enjoyed serving as a caregiver in the local community. Maxine was an immaculate homemaker and enjoyed cooking and entertaining friends and family. She was seldom seen sitting at the dinner table but always up serving others. Maxine loved flowers and was often seen outside manicuring her yard.

Funeral services will be held Monday, February 20th, 2023, 11:00 a.m., at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS, with Dr. Danny Irvin officiating.
Visitation will be held beginning at 10:00 a.m. till service time at the funeral home. Burial will be at Beulah Baptist Cemetery in the Weir/McCool, MS community. Serving as pallbearers will be Cole Glenn, Clint Ford, Scott Ward, Kent Vaughn, Taylor Vaughn, Brandon Cartwright, and Jeffrey McCulloch. Coleman Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

Those left to cherish her memories include daughters, Doris (Dixie) Worrell of Ackerman, MS, Elaine (Dave) Lanthier of Bartlett, TN, and Diane Pyron of Ackerman, MS; sons, David (Sarah) McCulloch of Ackerman, MS, and Mike (Marion) McCulloch of Guntown, MS; 15 grandchildren, Tracy Vaughn of Ackerman; MS, Angela (Clint) Ford of Memphis, TN; Scott Ward of Memphis, TN; Mike Lanthier of Jackson, MS; Kurt (Margie) Lanthier of Austin, TX; Brandon Cartwright of Knoxville, TN; Chris (Alisha) Cartwright of Gillette, WY; Crystal (Darrin) Gard of Headland, AL; Denese (John) Barksdale of Pensacola, FL; Tina (Perry) Lee of Ackerman, MS; Brian Pyron of Ackerman, MS; Jeffrey McCulloch of McCool, MS; Mark (Jean Maree) McCulloch of Ackerman, MS; Jamie (Cole) Glenn of Guntown, MS; and Michael McCulloch of Brooklyn, NY.
She also leaves behind 27 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great grandchildren.

Maxine was preceded in death by her husband, George McCulloch, her parents, Terrel Edwards and Okley Giffin, 2 brothers, and 2 sisters.

Memorials may be given to Beulah Baptist Cemetery Fund, c/o Katherine Black, 1410 Weir McCool Rd, McCool, MS 39108.

Patty Jean Sullivan

Patty Jean Sullivan, born January 3, 1931, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2023. Patty is a member of Cottage Hill Baptist Church. She had retired from BellSouth with 41 years of service. Patty had been a member of the LaLuna Mardi Gras Association and the Garden Club of Canterbury Heights.

Patty was preceded in death by her loving husband of 54 years, Davis Dues (DD) Sullivan, her parents, 3 brothers and one sister. Patty is survived by a special niece, Propst Pittman, who was like a daughter to her, one sister, Sara Hattie Ballard, sisters-in-law, Betty Haggard Parker and Nancy Haggard, nieces, nephews and her spouse, D. P. Jones, Jr.

Patty will always be remembered as a Precious, Petite, LADY. She loved her family and if you knew Patty, you were automatically family.

Visitation will be held at Cottage Hill Baptist Church, 4255 Cottage Hill, Rd., Mobile, Alabama, on Thursday, February 16, 2023 at 10:00. Following visitation, a church service will begin at 11:00. Graveside services will be 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 17 at Memorial Cemetery in Louisville, Mississippi. Nowell-Massey Funeral Home of Louisville is in charge of local arrangements.

Qullie Mae McDonald

Qullie Mae McDonald, 83, of Noxapater, MS., passed on Monday, Feb. 13, 2023 at the R. P. White Nursing Home, Meridian, Mississippi. Funeral Service will be Sunday, at 2 p.m., from Beck Funeral Home. Visitation will be Saturday, Feb. 12, 2023 from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Mount Pleasant#2 Church Cemetery, Noxapater, MS. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Brenda Faye Mullins

 Brenda Faye Mullins, 67, of Louisville, MS., passed on Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023 at the Winston County Fresenius Kidney Care, Louisville, MS. Funeral Service will be Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023, at 2 p.m., from New Zion M. B. Church. Visitation will be Saturday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the New Zion Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangement.

Mary Coletti Cole Barnett

Mary Coletti Cole Barnett, the only child of Marvin and Gladys Cole, was born in Louisville, Mississippi on November 19, 1960. As a young girl Coletti chose to follow Christ as her personal Savior whom she loved dearly and served faithfully all her life. She met Kelly Barnett in the fall of 1981 at Clarke College in Newton, Mississippi. They married on February 5, 1982 and enjoyed 41 years during which God blessed them with two children, Katelyn and Kyle.

Coletti and Kelly graduated from Mississippi College then moved to Ft. Worth, Texas for Seminary. Katelyn was born during those wonderful seminary years. In 1989 God called them to serve as pastor and wife of FBC Ft. Davis, TX where Coletti took on the role of church secretary and Mom and other opportunities including the birth of their son, Kyle in 1993. She also served the St. Joseph Baptist Church, LA, Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home, Florence, TX school teacher, and The Worship Place.
Coletti served God by serving others. She preferred working behind the scenes whether in the audio-visual booth or the kitchen. She devoted her time to showing others the love of God through her service. She enjoyed crafts and used them as a ministry whether crocheting or cooking. She used her gifts as a missionary for Christ. She loved people just as she found them.

When faced with recurring cancer in 2020, she said calmly and reassuringly, “God has a plan and we can trust Him” and so she did. One day she met with her oncologist who explained how the cancer was spreading throughout her body. The oncologist stopped and asked, “What questions to do you have?” Coletti looked her in the eye and asked firmly, “Do you know Jesus as your personal Savior?”
Coletti was an exemplary pastor’s wife. Always serving lovingly, never complaining or criticizing, always faithful. Her motto was, “Wherever the Lord leads is home.” She would want you to know that God loves you and you can trust Him in life and in death.

Coletti will be greatly missed by her husband, Kelly, her daughter Katelyn and son-in-law, Paul Michael Moore of Baytown, TX, her four grandchildren, Luke, Ellie, Addie and Logan, son, Kyle of Florence, TX and many precious friends.

Memorial Donations may be made in Coletti’s name to Baylor Scott and White Central Texas Foundation, 2041 S. 31st Street, Temple, Texas 76508 or Paisano Foundation C/O Buddy Baldridge, 6725 US HWY 380, Snyder, Texas 79549-9331.

Elbert Muldrew "Drew" Ray III

Elbert Muldrew Ray, III, Drew, 37, passed away on Tuesday February 8, 2023. Drew was born May 7, 1985, in Starkville, MS to Elbert Muldrew Ray, Jr and Sandra Kaye Foster. He was a loving father, son, brother, nephew, cousin, and a friend to all he knew. To have known him was to have loved him.

Drew grew up in Sturgis, MS and attended Sturgis Attendance Center, where he was an active member of the Sturgis baseball team. Drews heart was being a daddy to his daughter Denley Blake Ray, his passion was singing, and he loved Auburn Football. He was a member of Friendship Baptist Church in Sturgis, MS.

Drew is preceded in death by his grandparents Elbert Muldrew Ray Sr. and Elizabeth Irene Ray, Willy Ray Trice, and Evelyn Virginia Trice; great grandparents Muldrew and Eddie Mae Ray, Charlie and Lodean Scarbrough, Milton and Viola Trice, Claudis and Pearl Johns.

He is survived by his daughter Denley Blake-Brooks Ray of Pope, Ms; parents Elbert Muldrew Ray Jr and Lori Ray of Monroe, Ga; Sandra Foster of Ackerman, Ms; three brothers John Alan Miller and his wife Beverly of Sturgis, Ms, Joseph Elijah (Eli) Ray of Monroe, Ga, Christopher Greg Jones of Monroe, Ga; two sister Melissa Ray Bell and her husband Heath of New Albany, Ms, Savannah Jones Hall and her husband Nick of Monroe, Ga; godbrother CeCe Cork; nieces and nephews: Mayce Villanueva husband Roberto, Carley Bell, Treylan Bell, Raegan Miller, Kaige Miller, Lexi Miller, Dawson Hall, Sawyer Ray Hall; great nephew Aspen Villanueva; a multitude of uncles, aunts and cousins.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life on Saturday February 18, 2023, at Friendship Baptist Church in Sturgis, MS. Visitation will be from 10-12 with funeral to start at 12pm. In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made in honor of Drew to Mercy House Adult and Teen Challenge, P.O. Box 266, Georgetown, MS 39078.

Shelia Davis

Shelia Davis, 49 of Louisville, MS., passed on Sunday, February 12, 2023 at University Medical Center, Jackson, MS. Funeral Service will be Friday, February 17, 2023 at 2 p.m., from Agape Missionary Baptist Church, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Thursday 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.

Jack M. Nowell

Jack M. Nowell, 88, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 10, 2023, at his home in the Lobutcha Community, surrounded by his loving family. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. on Sunday, February 12, in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Trent Jaudon and Bro. Franklin Smith officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home from 11 a.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in East County Line Cemetery in Winston County.
Jack was born in the Mars Hill Community on November 14, 1934, to Herman and Sybill Sisson Nowell. He was a member of Old Mars Hill Church. Jack was a founding member of the Lobutcha Volunteer Fire Department. He served the department as Assistant Fire Chief and answered to the call name of “Lobutcha 12.” Jack began his career as a farmer at an early age. He attended Arlington School but he enjoyed staying at home with his dad and farming more than going to school. He was still actively serving on the board of Mars Hill Cemetery.

Jack is survived by his loving wife, Waudine Goldman Nowell. Jack and Dean were just four days shy of celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary. He is also survived by his children: Phyllis Nowell Gillett of Louisville; Ronald Nowell and wife, Carolyn, of Philadelphia; and Byron Nowell and wife, Honey of the Lobutcha Community; and his daughter-in-law, Pam Commer Nowell Manning of Philadelphia, Mississippi. One of his greatest joys was being “Papa” to his grandchildren: Donald Joe “DJ” (Vanessa) Nowell, II; Stephanie Gillett, Johnathan (Brandi) Nowell; Jeremiah Gillett; Joey (Stephanie) Nowell; and Jerry Jack Nowell; and his nine great-grandchildren: Autumn Nowell, Hayden Nowell, Zoey Gillett, Madalyn Nowell, Minnie Marie Nowell, Seth Nowell, Israel Harrison, Lyra Mae Nowell, and Weston Dean Nowell. Jack also leaves behind his sister, Faye Nowell Myers; sister-in-law, Marie Goldman Myers; brother, Mitchell Nowell; and brother-in-law, John Harris; as well as a host of loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Sybill Nowell; son, Donald Joe Nowell, Sr.; son-in-law, Roger Gillett; his sisters: Imogene Blount, Christine Pettie, Emma Lou Myers, Helen Harris, and Hilda Carver; his father and mother-in-law, Floyd and Jewel McBeath Goldman; his sister-in-law, Mavis Burkes Atkinson; and his brothers-in-law, Bruner Myers; Fred Cuevas Goldman; Williard Goldman; and Archie Goldman.

Serving as pallbearers Terry Wayne Burchfield, Clarence Goodin, Doug Hancock, Haigan Hancock, Daniel Norwood, Logan Ray, Stanley Shaw, and Ricky Steed. Honorary pallbearers are Donald Joe “DJ” Nowell, II; Stephanie Gillett; Johnathan Nowell; Jeremiah Gillett; Joey Nowell; and Jerry Jack Nowell. Memorials can be made to East County Line Cemetery, c/o Honey Nowell, 750 Nowell-Taylor Road, McCool, MS 39108.

Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 N. Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS 39339. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.

Larry Gene Gregg

Larry Gene Gregg, 73, of Macon, MS passed away on February 6, 2023 at his residence. His funeral service was held on Thursday, Feb. 9 at 2:00 PM at Cockrell Funeral Home chapel in Macon. Bro. Ronnie Cartwright and Bro. Allen Eaves officiated at the services. Interment followed in Butler Cemetery.

Memorials are requested to the Butler Cemetery Fund 991 Johnny Higginbotham Road, Shuqualak, MS 39361. Cockrell Funeral Home of Macon is honored to be entrusted with the service arrangements.

Larry Gregg was born in Noxubee County, MS on October 25, 1949 to the late Robert L and Elsie Eaves Gregg. He grew up in rural Noxubee County and graduated from Noxubee County High School with the Class of 1969. He graduated from trade school at Jackson County Junior College and then worked at Ingall’s Shipyard for 11 years. In 1971 Larry married Hope Raybon and they shared 42 years together until her passing in 2013. They moved to Macon after his stint at Ingall’s Shipyard and he began working in general construction around the southern United States, from Miami, Florida to several locations around Texas. He continued in the construction industry for most of his life. Larry enjoyed wood working and metal working as well as building things.

Larry Gregg is survived by his daughters: Rachel Wilson of Spartanburg, SC and Amy Baldwin of Saltillo, MS and by his sons: Brian Gregg of Brooksville, MS and Jason Gregg of Noxapater, MS and eight grandchildren. He also leaves behind one sister: Eileen Higginbotham of Macon and one brother: Cecil Gregg of Louisville, MS. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife , one son, Scotty and two brothers: Gilbert and twin brother, Harry.

Glyndale Weeks

Glyndale Weeks, 68, passed away on Tuesday, February 7, 2023, at Baptist Hospital, in Columbus, MS. He was born May 30, 1954, in Choctaw County, Mississippi, to Elmer and Bertha Mae (Fulce) Weeks. Glyndale was self employed in the logging industry throughout the years.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 10, 2023, 11:00 a.m., at Salem Independent Methodist Church near Ackerman, MS. Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 9, 2023, 5:00 - 8:00 p.m., at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS., and Friday, February 10, 2023, 10:00 a.m. till service time at the church. Coleman Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

Glyndale is survived by his wife, Vicki (McDaniel) Weeks of Ackerman, MS; 1 son, Michael (Brittney) Weeks of Ackerman, MS; 2 brothers, Doug (Debbie) Weeks of Ackerman, MS, and Dennis Weeks of Ackerman, MS; 1 sister, Frances Odom of Ackerman, MS; and 5 grandchildren, Harper Weeks, Alex LaGrone, Mason LaGrone, Bellagrace LaGrone, and Alexis Mims.

Glyndale is preceded in death by his parents, 1 sister, Joann, and 1 brother, Jerry.

Memorials may be made to the American Liver Foundation, PO Box 299, West Orange, NJ 07052.

Montevious Quartez Goss

Montevious Quartez Goss, 16, of Louisville, MS., passed on Monday, Jan. 30, 2023, in Winston County Mississippi. Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time and will be announced later by Beck Funeral Home of Louisville

Mary Joyce Gladney

Mary Joyce Gladney, 61 of Ackerman, MS., passed on Friday, February 3, 2023 at Baptist Memorial Hospital, Columbus, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, Feb. 11, 2023 at 2 p.m., from Friendship M. B. Church, Ackerman, MS. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m., from Beck Funeral Home(Weir). Burial will be in the Enon Cemetery in Ackerman. Beck Funeral Home of Weir in charge of arrangements.

Walter Perry Eaves

Mr. Walter Perry Eaves, 75, passed away on Monday, February 6, 2023, at his home in Louisville. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Thursday, February 9th, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Dwight Fleming officiating. Visitation will be Thursday from 1:00 P.M. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will be in Old Mars Hill Pentecostal Church Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Walter was born December 3, 1947, in Louisville, MS. He was retired from construction, having worked with King Metal Buildings for many years. Walter had a love for dogs and raised many over the years.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Manning Eaves; two sons, Brent Eaves and Anthony Yates; and two brothers, David Eaves and Jimmy Eaves.

He is survived by two sons, Wendell Eaves, and Philip Eaves, both of Louisville; a brother, Billy (Natalie) Eaves of Louisville; three sisters, Nancy Burnham, Mary (Troy) Burroughs, and Betty Eaves, all of Louisville; nine grandchildren, Lesley Eaves, Cody Eves, James Austin Prestage, Zachery Eaves, Brock Eaves, Nicole Khader, Victoria Delgado, Austin Yates, and Kenny Ray Williams; and 6 great grandchildren.

Pallbearers will bel Philip Eaves, Wendell Eaves, Ken Burnham, Damon Sciple, Shane Sciple, and Austin Prestage.

Memorials may be made to the Louisville Animal Shelter.

Jimmie Sue Hatcher

Jimmie Sue Hatcher, 92, passed away on Sunday, February 5, 2023, at Choctaw Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Ackerman, Mississippi, surrounded by her loving family. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. on Thursday, February 9th, at Harmony Baptist Church with Bro. Jerry Lundy officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service at the church from 10 a.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in Harmony Cemetery.

Jimmie Sue was born in Louisville, Mississippi, on July 6, 1930, to Austin and Bernice Taylor Edwards. She was a member of Harmony Baptist Church. Jimmie Sue loved gardening and enjoyed growing flowers, especially roses. She also enjoyed keeping her house updated; she was always ready to paint and hang wallpaper! Jimmie Sue was an excellent cook and was known for her homemade bread that she often gave as birthday gifts. She was also a very talented seamstress who could make anything. 

Jimmie Sue is survived by her children: Patty Graham and husband, Stan of Pensacola, Florida; Mike Hatcher and wife, Tonia of Kosciusko, Mississippi; Bonnie S. Creekmore; Pam Blackwell and husband, Steve; Jennifer Kaye Kight and husband, Wes; and daughter-in-law, Betty Lynn Hatcher, all of Louisville. One of her greatest joys was being “Mamaw” to her grandchildren: Lisa (Mark) Shaw; Amy Hatcher; Barry (Carla) Graham; Leigh Ann (Eddy) Watts; Emily (Greg) Smith; Michael (Kayla) Hatcher; Sheridan (Jeffrey) Mitchell; Brad (Rachel) Creekmore; Ben (Alisha) Creekmore; Corey (Liz) Blackwell; Brent Blackwell; Kimberly (Tony) Lopez; Kelly (Jason) Hursh; Johnny Kight; and Jake Kight; 25 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Ann Covington and Joyce Springer; as well as a host of loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends

.Jimmie Sue was preceded in death by her husband, John “A. W.” Hatcher; her son, John Austin Hatcher; her daughter, Anita Faye Hatcher; granddaughter, Cindy Yarbrough; son-in-law, Jeffrey Creekmore; her parents, her sister, Louise Hamilton; and her brother, Joe Edwards. 

Serving as pallbearers Barry Graham, Michael Hatcher, Brad Creekmore, Ben Creekmore, Corey Blackwell, Brent Blackwell, Johnny Kight, and Jake Kight. Memorials can be made to Harmony Baptist Church, Memorial Bibles, Louisville, MS 39339.

Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 N. Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS 39339.

Blanche Elizabeth White

Blanche Elizabeth White, 84, passed away January 19, 2023, at Eagle Ridge Alzheimer’s Special Care Center in Denton, Texas, after a two year battle with Alzheimer’s. Memorial services will be 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 11, in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Mike Childs officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 9 a.m. until service time in the Chapel.

Blanche was born in Meridian, Mississippi, on November 22, 1938, to Nathaniel William Francis and Dorothy “Inez” Bartlett Francis. Blanche graduated from Louisville High School. She held a business degree from Jackson Commercial College and an Associate of Applied Science degree from Galveston College. She retired from IBM as an Administrative Assistant and Corporate Security Officer in Houston, Texas. Blanche later went to work for Siemens as a Clerical/Administrative Assistant in Jackson, Mississippi. Blanche was a friend to all who met her and in her last days she was given the name “Boogie” Blanche because of her love of music and dancing. She was very active in the American Business Women’s Association serving as president and treasurer. She was also the Commander of the Jackson Sail and Power Squadron.

Blanche is survived by her daughter, Debbie Vest and husband Freddy of Pilot Point, Texas; sister, Gina McGraw Duffey and husband, Gary of Abbeville, Louisiana; grandchildren, Rowdy Vest and wife, Emilie of Gunter, Texas; Colton Vest and wife, Marissa of Pilot Point, Texas; Leigh Vest McPherson and husband, Nathan of Collinsville, Texas; eight great-grandchildren: Tristen, Addison, Alex, Collin, Jaxten, Marek, Pierce, and Vivian; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Nathaniel Francis and Inez Francis McGraw; stepfather, George McGraw; and brother, William Bartlett “Bart” Francis of Key West, Florida.

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.

Faye C. Hodge

 Mrs. Faye C. Hodge, 85, passed away on Friday, February 3, 2023, at Choctaw Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Ackerman, MS. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Monday, February 6th, at Porter Funeral Home, with Brother Gary Caudill and Brother Antonie Stokes officiating. Visitation will be Sunday from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. Interment will be in Harmony Baptist Church cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Faye was born October 1, 1937, in Winston County, MS. She attended Calhoun High School. She was a retired business owner, having owned a convenience store in Louisville and a Bar-B-Que business in Flowood, MS. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ward and Hazel Kemp Carrington; her husband, Ronald Baer; a sister, Jean Glenn, a brother, Dalton Carrington; and a son-in-law, Jerry Barnett.

She is survived by two daughters, Shirley Barnett of Noxapater, MS, and Alana McCullough of Brandon, MS; three sons, Garry (Tammy) Snow of Kopperl, Texas, Neil (Jane) Snow of Louisville, and John (Jakki) Tigar of Manahawken, New Jersey; three sisters, Ruth Goodin of Pearl, MS, Dora Goodin of Brandon, MS, and Linda (Wayne) Lee of Braxton, MS; 12 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, 8 great great-grandchildren, and 2 honorary grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Gabe Snow, Nick Stone, D. J. Triplett, T. J. Moore, Zak Moore, Blake Wilkinson, Chad Stone and Brandon Creel. Honorary pallbearers Blake Stone, Nolan Musick, Mason Musick, Brazos Musick, Sawyer Snow and Austin Yates.

The family would like to thank Dr. Gentry and his staff, the Beehive of Louisville, Winston Medical Center, Choctaw Regional Medical Center, and Choctaw Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the care that they provided.

Cindye Taylor Williams

Mrs. Cindye Taylor Williams , 60, of Thaxton, MS, passed away on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, after an extended illness with cancer. Visitation will be Thursday, February 2, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Coleman Funeral Home of Oxford (601 Commerce Pkwy., Oxford, MS 38655). A funeral service will be held Friday, February 3, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. also at Coleman Funeral Home of Oxford. Interment will be at Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery (1011 CR 42, Etta, MS 38627). Bro. Don Sparks will officiate. Coleman Funeral Home of Oxford is in charge of arrangements.

Cindye was born in Ackerman, MS, on August 15, 1962, to Harry D. Taylor, Sr., and Barbara G. Taylor. She was a graduate of Ackerman High School and Wood Junior College in Mathiston, MS. She began working while still in high school and continued to work while extending her college education. After college, she worked in many different fields, always returning to work that included meeting and helping people, a trait that she inherited from both her mother and father.

While working in patient accounts at Choctaw County Medical Center, she met her future husband, James, a young man working on one of the major upgrades to the hospital. They were married on May 28, 1988, and established their home near Thaxton, MS.

Cindye never met a stranger and was one of the most selfless people you could ever meet. She cared about others before herself and one of the many proofs of that was in her commitment as a St Jude pledge. She was very family oriented and loving being Mimi to her grandchildren. Spending time with family was always at the top of the list for her, but she also enjoyed hunting and fishing, even deep sea fishing.

Cindye was a devout Christian who read her Bible every night before going to bed. She was also a fighter who had beat cancer once before.

She is survived by her husband of 34 years, James W. Williams of Thaxton, MS; two sons, Casey J. Williams of Oxford, and Corey L. (Natalie) Williams of Batesville, MS; one daughter, Whitney C. Williams of Orlando, FL; three grandchildren, Aiden W. Williams, Colton A. Williams, and Katherine E. Williams, all of Batesville; one brother, Harry D. “Hank” Taylor, Jr. of Ackerman, MS; one sister, Angela “Angie” T. (Kevin) Null of Ackerman; and 22 nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harry D. Taylor, Sr., and Barbara G. Taylor; and her eldest sister, Pam T. St. Marie.

Donation and memorials in honor of Mrs. Cindye T. Williams may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Verlen "Ken" Hill

Verlen "Ken" Hill, 79, passed away on Saturday, January 28, 2023, at Oktibbeha County Hospital, in Starkville, MS. He was born March 6, 1943, in Oxford, OH, to Carl and Louise Hill. Mr. Hill was a retired carpenter. His retirement years were spent doing the two things he enjoyed most…..spoiling his two grandchildren and playing the music he loved at the Longview Opry.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

Mr. Hill is survived by 1 son, Kenny (Tabitha) Hill of Sturgis, MS; and 2 grandchildren, Connor and Kenzie Hill of Sturgis, MS.

Mr. Hill was preceded in death by both of his parents.

Memorials may be made to Choctaw County High School Music Department in Ackerman, MS, or the Longview Opry in Longview, MS.