Darrell Hallford

Darrell Hallford, 56, passed away on Saturday, December 30, 2023, at Anderson Regional Health Center in Meridian, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Thursday, January 4, 2024, in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend David Keen officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service.

Darrell was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on July 21, 1967, to Billie Joe and Paulette Gelpi Hallford. He volunteered to help with the welding class at the Winston-Louisville Career and Technology Center. Darrell enjoyed collecting guns and target shooting. To say that he was an avid LSU fan is an understatement! Most importantly, he dearly loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them.

Darrell is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Donna Coleman Hallford of Louisville; and his daughter, Kimberly Thomas and husband, Joey, of Columbus, Mississippi; and his sons, Joe Hallford and Zach Hallford both of Louisville. He is also survived by his mother, Paulette Hallford of Brandon, Mississippi; his sister, Tammy Bevan, also of Brandon; and his brother, Danny (Amanda) Hallford of Philadelphia, Mississippi. He was preceded in death by his father, Billie Joe Hallford; and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Don and Ann Coleman.

Serving as pallbearers are Scott Barnhill, Chris Henry, Scott Henry, Tyler Howard, Pat Hunt, and James Moffett. Billy Jack Bradford and Ray Dean Hisaw will serve as honorary pallbearers.

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.

Ira Woodward Horton, Jr.

Ira Woodward Horton, Jr. 83, better known as I.W. to his customers, family, and friends, left his earthly home to be with his Lord and Savior on December 30, 2023 after a brief battle with cancer.

I.W. was born to Ira Woodward Horton, Sr. and Flora Lawrence Horton on June 26, 1940 in Winston County, Mississippi. He graduated from Louisville High School in 1958, East Central Community College in 1961, and later attended Mississippi State University before opening Horton Furniture and Appliance with his family on Main Street in Louisville. He later opened Horton Appliance Repair where he served many loyal customers until his retirement. I.W. was a member of Whitehall Church and served in the U.S. Army, as well as, the National Guard. After retiring, I.W. enjoyed working in his yard and looking after his pasture and tree farm.

I.W. is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Judy Kemp Horton; his son, Woodward Brent Horton, and his sister, Faye Love Horton, along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, James L. Horton and Henry Dean Horton and two sisters, Evelyn H. Black and Mary Nell Horton.

Funeral services will be held at Whitehall Church on January 2, 2024, at 11:00 AM with visitation from 10:00 AM until service time at the church. Funeral services will be under the direction of Nowell Massey Funeral Home in Louisville, Mississippi.

Pallbearers will be Jonathan Holt, Ethan Jordan, Tony Jordan, Tony Kemp, Clinton Mills, Colton Mills, William Moody, and Grant Vandiver. Honorary pallbearers will be Jimmy Blair, Ricky Childress, Scott Childress, Danny Mills, and the men of Whitehall Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Whitehall Church, c/o Garvin Whitten, 10954 Highway 14 West, Louisville, MS 39339.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.

Marion "Buddy" Ball

Marion “Buddy” Ball, 90, passed away on Thursday, December 28, 2023, at Winston Medical Center Nursing Home in Louisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday, January 1, 2024, in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Heath Hillman officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service at the funeral home from 10:00 a.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in Murphy Creek Cemetery.

Buddy was born in Louisville, Mississippi, on August 18,1933, to William Dee and Hester Prisock Ball. Buddy along with his wife, Frances, were entrepreneurs of several business ventures in Louisville. Among their most distinguishable ventures were Kwik Pik #1 and Kwik Pik #2 as they were the first convenience stores in the area. Buddy earned a Bachelor of Science degree and was a Certified Public Accountant. He was a member of the Louisville Volunteer Fire Department for more than 30 years. Buddy loved to play cards at the fire department and enjoyed fishing. He also served as a mail carrier back when the mail was delivered on rural routes and he served as president of the local Housing Authority. Buddy answered the call of his country by serving in the United States Army during the Korean War. In his later years, you would often see him sitting in his rocking chair on the front porch of his home on Ball Drive waving to those who drove by.

Buddy is survived by his children: Debbie Ball Williams of Olive Branch, Mississippi; Marion “Rooster” Ball and wife, Jennifer, of Louisville; and William Ball and wife, JJ, of Noxapater, Mississippi. One of his greatest joys was being “Pop” to his nine grandchildren: Carley (Ramey) Smith, Casey (Lindsey) Cade, Taylor Williams, Laurel Ball (Michael) Beckham, Madelyn Ball (Thomas) Pugh, Mack Ball, Stewart (Ansley) Ball, Wyatt Ball, and Roper (Conner) Ball; as well as his six great-grandchildren: Sarah Scott Smith, Catherine James Smith, Holt Cade, Mia Cade, Francy Cade, and Rayne Beckham. He also leaves behind a sister, Delores Glazier, in addition to many loving nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. 

Buddy is preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Frances Stewart Ball; his parents; his sister, Ann Mayo; and his brother, Robert D. “Sonny” Ball.

Serving as pallbearers are Casey Cade, Mack Ball, Stewart Ball, Wyatt Ball, Roper Ball, Michael Beckham, Ramey Smith, and Thomas Pugh. 

Memorials may be given to the Murphy Creek Cemetery Fund, 5420 Bond Road, Louisville, MS 39339 or to the Winston Shrine Club, c/o Grover Vinning, 23 Tommy Drive, Philadelphia, MS 39360.

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.

Waudine Goldman “Dean” Nowell

Waudine Goldman “Dean” Nowell, 90, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 30, 2023, at her home in the Lobutcha Community, with her loving family by her side. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. on Monday, January 1, 2024, 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 12 p.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in East County Line Cemetery in Winston County.

Dean was born on March 28, 1933, to Floyd and Jewel McBeth Goldman. She was a member of Old Mars Hill Church. She loved all aspects of farming including milking cows and picking up eggs at her chicken houses. Dean was an excellent seamstress; she enjoyed sewing for the public of many years. During the COVID pandemic, she made several thousand masks that were given to children in school. Dean also loved to crochet, making many beautiful items for family and friends over the years.

Dean is survived by her 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 her greatest joys was being “Mammaw” to her six grandchildren: Donald Joe “DJ” (Vanessa) Nowell, II; Stephanie Gillett, Johnathan (Brandi) Nowell; Jeremiah Gillett; Joey (Stephanie) Nowell; and Jerry Jack Nowell; and her eight great-grandchildren: Autumn Nowell, Hayden Nowell, Zoey Gillett, Madalyn Nowell, Minnie Marie Nowell, Seth Nowell, Lyra Mae Nowell, and Weston Dean Nowell. Dean was not “Mammaw” only to her blood family but to all knew her but especially to Kate Norwood, Kinley Norwood, Anna Grace Whitehead, Luke Whitehead, David Utz, Grayson Triplett, Thrasher Triplett, Reed Triplett, Lena Grace Smith, and John William Smith. She also leaves behind her sister, Marie Goldman Myers; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Dean was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Jack Nowell; son, Donald Joe Nowell, Sr.; son-in-law, Roger Gillett; her parents, Floyd and Jewel Goldman; her sister, Mavis Burkes Addkison; three brothers: Fred Cuevas Goldman; Williard Goldman; and Archie Goldman, her brother-in-law, Bruner Myers; and her sister-in-law, Juanita “Nita” Goldman.

Serving as pallbearers Terry Wayne Burchfield, Clarence Goodin, Doug Hancock, Haigan Hancock, Jarrett Keith, 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.

Patricia Maria “Pat” Caminiti

Patricia Maria “Pat” Caminiti, 64, passed away on Thursday, December 28, 2023, at Winston Medical Center in Louisville, Mississippi, with her family at her side. Visitation will be Tuesday, January 2, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville. Funeral services will be Wednesday, January 3, in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Dwayne Barrett officiating. Interment will immediately follow the service in Murphy Creek Cemetery.

Pat was born on March 18, 1959, to Peter Caminiti and Lyda Rea Pennington Caminiti.

Pat is survived by her husband of 40 years, E.T. Smith; her daughter, Melissa Thrash of Noxapater, Mississippi; and her son, Patrick Fussell, of New Orleans, Louisiana. One of her greatest joys was being “Grandma” to her 14 grandchildren and her nine great-grandchildren whom she dearly loved. She is also survived by two sisters, Melba Armstrong and Paula Caminiti; and by two brothers, Russell Caminiti and Clyde (Josephine) Jones. Pat was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Joe Allen.

Memorials in honor of Patricia may be given to the Noxapater Tiger Club, Attention: Becky Hamilton, 220 W. Alice Street, Noxapater, MS 39346.

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

Robert W. "Bobby" Yarbrough

Mr. Robert William “Bobby” Yarbrough, Jr., 88, passed away on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, in Cypress Cottage at Winston Medical Center. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, December 30th, at Whitehall Methodist Church, with Rev. Stacy Parvin officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Porter Funeral Home. Interment will be in Whitehall Cemetery.

Bobby was born July 11, 1935, in Noxapater, MS. He was a 1954 graduate of Louisville High School, and a graduate of Mississippi State University with a degree in engineering. Bobby worked for Taylor Machine Works in the engineering and the sales departments; and later as national sales manager in the Industrial Engineering Division at Nissan Motor Company. He was a U. S. Army veteran, having served during the Korean conflict. He was a faithful member of Whitehall Methodist Church. Due to failing health, Bobby’s last few years were spent in Cypress Cottage where he enjoying arts and crafts, including painting rocks to share with friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Joan McGahey Yarbrough; his parents, Robert William “Bill” Yarbrough, Sr. and Bettye Merrill Filer Yarbrough; a granddaughter, Lesley Boatner; and a sister, Nancy Yarbrough Donovan.

He is survived by two children, Susan Dempsey (John) of Louisville, and Bob Yarbrough (Kari Yatkowski) of Knoxville, TN; two brothers, Daniel “Moe Yarbough (Peggy) Yarbrough and Jimmy Yarbrough, both of Louisville, MS; four grandchildren, Eric (Angel) Whitehead, Jack Dempsey (Madison Hardage), Hannah Yarbrough, and Haley Yarbrough; and his great grandchildren, Tanner Boatner, Beau Boatner, Lana Boatner, Libby Jo Boatner, Annie Brooke Boatner, Anna Grace Whitehead, and Taylor Luke Whitehead.

Pallbearers will be Eric Whitehead, Jack Dempsey, Tanner Boatner, Beau Boatner, Luke Whitehead, Chuck Eaves, Lenny Boatner, and Steven Yarbrough.

Memorials may be made to the Lesley Boatner Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Susan Dempsey, 79 Welcome Chapel Church Road, Louisville, MS, 39339.

James Talley, Jr.

James Talley, Jr., 70, of McCool, MS., passed on Thursday, December 21, 2023, from an auto accident in Sandhill, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, December 30, 2023, at 11 a.m., from Mount Pilgrim M. B. Church, McCool, MS. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 pm., from the Funeral Home in Weir. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Weir in charge of arrangements.

Jerlene Moore

Jerlene Moore, 88, of Louisville, MS., passed on Saturday, December 23, 2023, at the Bee Hive Homes of Philadelphia, in Philadelphia, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, December 30, 2023, at 11 a.m., from Friendship M. B. Church, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Mount Sinai M. B. Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville is in charge of arrangements.

James Edward “Jimmy” Eaves

James Edward “Jimmy” Eaves, 69, passed away on Monday, December 25, 2023, at St. Dominic Hospital in Jackson, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 12 p.m. Thursday, December 28 in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Hiram Eaves and Reverend Mark Shaw officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service at the funeral home from 10:30 a.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in Murphy Creek Cemetery.

Jimmy was born in Louisville, Mississippi, on July 6, 1954, to Harvey and Autence Reed Eaves. He was an active member of Barnett Independent Church in Pachuta, Mississippi, where he enjoyed singing. Jimmy was a truck driver for many years.

Jimmy is survived by his sister, Betty Hatcher of Louisville; his sister-in-law, Rilda Eaves of Moselle, Mississippi; and two brothers-in-law, Clarence Kelley and Ronnie Woodruff both of Louisville. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings: Dot Nance, Garland Eaves, Garvis Eaves, Glynda Woodruff, and Barbara Kelley.

Serving as pallbearers are Chris Eaves, Tony Fulton, Virgil Rodgers, Ken Schooler, Austin Shaw, Tayler Yarbrough, and Tyler Yarbrough. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials in honor of Jimmy be given to Nowell-Massey Funeral Home to help with funeral expenses.

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

Walter Raymond “Scook” Trice, Jr.

Walter Raymond “Scook” Trice, Jr., 74, passed away on Monday, December 25, 2023, at Yalobusha General Hospital in Water Valley, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Thursday, December 28, in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel in Louisville with Reverend Owen Gordon officiating. Visitation will be at the funeral home on the day of the service from 12 p.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in Bevill Hill Cemetery.
Scook was born in Aberdeen, Mississippi, to Walter Raymond Trice, Sr. and Bertie Ruth Weeks Trice on October 21, 1949. When he was younger, he played guitar in a small band. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He enjoyed spending time with his family; especially his children and grandchildren.

Scook is survived by two sons, William “Billy” Trice and wife, Kija, of Mathiston, Mississippi; Kenny Jackson from the Clarkson Community; and his daughter, Sandy Helms also of Mathiston. One of his greatest joys was being “Paw Paw Scook” to his six grandchildren whom he dearly loved: Kortney Trice, Johnathan (Shelby) Collins, Summer (Gabe) Mays; Mattie Douglas; Bridgett (Chad) Johnson, and Dalton (Brianna) Jackson; and four great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister, Brenda (James) Woods; and his brothers, Will (Katie) Trice and Steve (Ann) Trice in addition to his loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Scook was preceded in death by his grandson, Matthew Dylan Jackson; his parents, Bertie Ruth and Walter Trice, Sr.; two sisters, Hilda and Martha; and his brother, Phillip Trice.
Serving as pallbearers are Caine Adams, Josh Adams, Thomas Nichols, Taylor Ray, Timmy Sloan, and Doug Trice.

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.

Sherry Stevenson Burton

Sherry Stevenson Burton, 69, passed away on Friday, December 22, 2023, at Choctaw Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Ackerman, Mississippi. Funeral services will be Wednesday, December 27, at Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church in Choctaw County with Reverend Roger Griffith officiating. Visitation will be at the church on the day of the service from 1 p.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in Mt. Zion Cemetery.

Sherry was born in Winston County, Mississippi, to Earnest Stevenson and Barbara Romedy Fulcher on May 25, 1954. She was an avid reader; and she enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and her nieces and nephews.

Sherry is survived by her daughters: Renae Griffith and husband, Neal, of McCool, Mississippi; and Amy Moore and husband, Jeffery, of Little Rock, Mississippi. One of her greatest joys was being “Maw Maw” to her five grandchildren whom she dearly loved: Mallory (Anthony) Malone; Brady (Taylor) Griffith; Noah (Sydney) Moore; and Calyx Moore and fiancé, CJ; as well as her great-grandchildren: Carolyne Moore; Laynie Dean; Gatlin Griffith; Amory Malone; Bodey Griffith; Elana Dean; and Sawyer; and she was looking forward to the birth of another great-granddaughter in May 2024. She also leaves behind her sisters, Shelia Burton, Gena Stevenson, and Sylvia (Larry) Reed; and her brothers, Kenny (Glenda) Stevenson; and Stevie (Leslie) Stevenson in addition to a host of loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Sherry was preceded in death by her father, Earnest Stevenson; and her mother, Barbara Romedy Fulcher and husband, Max Owen Fulcher.

Serving as pallbearers are Brady Griffith, Anthony Malone, Dakota Moore, Noah Moore, Michael Burton, and Bobby Joe Burton. Memorials in honor of Sherry may be given to Mt. Zion Cemetery Fund.

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.

Preston E. Payne

On Thursday December 21, 2023, Preston E. Payne, 22, entered the gates of Heaven. Preston was born in Starkville MS on August 7th, 2001 to David and April Payne of Mathiston. He was promoted to big brother in May of 2004 to sister, Payton Payne.

Preston was a 2020 graduate of Choctaw County High School. While in high school he was a member of the Charger football and Charger golf team. After graduation Preston attended Mississippi College and then transferred to East Mississippi Community College where he was a graduate of the welding program. Preston loved to weld. He got that passion from his Papaw. After his graduation from EMCC, he went to work for CORE Industries doing what he loved. He utilized his talent in helping construct the Cross of Christ display on Mississippi Highway 25 in Starkville, MS. Preston had made many friends at his workplace and formed a special relationship with his boss, Alex Nicholson, who loved the outdoors as much a he did. During his spare time Preston was found on the water or in the woods. Preston amazed everyone with the tricks he could do while wake boarding on the river or at Smith Lake. He loved to bow fish and jug fish on the Tennessee River and he was an avid hunter of turkey, dove, hog, deer and ducks. Preston loved to do it all.

Visitation for Preston will be held on Saturday, December 23, 2023, from 5:00PM until 8:00PM at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS. Funeral services will be held at Fellowship Baptist Church near Mathiston, MS on Sunday, December 24, 2023 at 2:00PM. Burial will follow in the Fellowship Baptist Cemetery near Mathiston, MS. Rev. Brent Manasco will officiate. Pallbearers for the services will include Noah Smith, Mitchell Smith, Beau Bates, John Thomas Bates, Cooper Bates, Blake Bates, Clark Crowley, and Daygan Crowley.

Preston is survived by his parents David and April Payne, and sister Payton Payne, all from Mathiston, MS, his grandmother Alice Prier of Mathiston, MS and grandmother Sandra Smith of Starkville. He is also survived by his uncles and aunts, Johnny and Laura Smith of Starkville, MS, Ronald and Susan Smith of Clinton, MS, Robin and Adam Bates of Caledonia, MS and Clay Payne of Starkville, MS as well as his girlfriend Neelie Ryan Crowley of Mathiston, MS

Preston is preceded in death by his grandfathers, Perry Payne and John Allen Smith, both from Starkville, MS. Great grant parents Robert Lee “Judge Mac” and Annie May McDavid of Starkville Ms, Hubert and Maurine Smith of Mathiston and Minnie McKee of Maben Ms.

Memorials may be made in memory of Preston to any Cross of Christ Construction Fund.

Ronald "Ronnie" Oliver Presley

Ronald "Ronnie" Oliver Presley, age 69, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, December, 18, 2023. He was born on Tuesday, April 27, 1954.
Ronnie was born in Philadelphia, MS to Sherman Presley and Christine Jones Presley. Ronnie was a Christian and lifelong Baptist. Ronnie was baptized at Good Hope Baptist Church in Louisville, MS. He grew up in Louisville, MS. Ronnie went to Louisville High School, Clarke College, and Mississippi State University.
Ronnie married the love of his life, Cindy Kendrick of New Hebron, MS on October 2, 1982. Together they lived, loved, had good times and weathered all of life’s ups and downs.
He was a loving son, husband, father and grandfather. He spent his career in the manufacturing field with several different companies.
Ronald loved the outdoors, taking pictures, animals, good food, day trips and helping whoever might need it.
He and his wife, Cindy had two lovely daughters, Stephanie Presley Fuller (James) and Mary Presley Nordan (Adam). Along came four handsome grandsons- Cotton Eslie Nordan, James Roland Fuller, Aiden Michael Nordan and Logan Christopher Fuller. Ronald loved them all very much.
Ronnie has a sister, Linda Presley Holder (Terry) of Louisville, MS and a brother, Donald Presley (Nancy) of Baldwyn, MS. Various nieces too.
Ronnie’s life was about working, helping, and making a difference. He lived a blessed life. There will be a memorial service at a later date.

Robert Bob Miller

Robert Bob Miller, age 96, passed away on Monday, December 18, 2023. Visitation will be Friday, December 22, at Taylor's Funeral Home Chapel from 1 pm to 5 pm. The Funeral Service will be on Saturday, December 23rd at noon at New Zion MB Church.

Ella Mae Miller

Ella Mae Miller, 87, of Louisville, MS., passed on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at her home. Funeral Service will be Saturday, December 23, 2023 at 2 p.m., from Union Chapel M. B. Church, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Union Chapel Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Maxine Winfield

Maxine McMinn Winfield, 96, passed away on December 16, 2023. She was born in Sturgis, Mississippi, on January 20, 1927. She was preceded in death by her husband, David Adler Winfield, Jr.

Mrs. Winfield was devoted to her family and provided a shining light of how to be a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and business woman. She enjoyed gardening, cooking, (especially vegetables from her garden) and baking (delicious Christmas fruitcakes, fresh coconut cakes, and fudge) for her family. She loved sewing for her daughters and granddaughters - gifting each of her daughters, her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with sequin and bead Christmas stockings. In later years, she enjoyed spending hours reading novels, bird watching, working crossword puzzles, and enjoying coffee while visiting with friends. She loved the holidays and spending time with her family all year round. Mrs. Winfield was a member of Ackerman Baptist Church as well as Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church while living in Houston, Texas. While her daughters were growing up, she taught Sunday school, Vacation Bible School, and was a member of the women's group at church. From 1970-1990, she owned and operated the Style Shop on Main Street in Ackerman where she enjoyed helping ladies with fashion.

She is survived by her daughters, Patricia and her fiance Tommy of Starkville and Jan of Houston, Texas. She will be missed by four grandchildren, Alicia and her husband Collin; Alison and her husband Chris; Colleen and her husband Leigh; and Joseph and Sarah. Her six great-grandchildren, Olivia, Christopher, Clayton, Hunter, Adler, and Camille will miss her hugs, laughter, and love. She leaves behind her brother Malcolm of Oxford and a sister-in-law Beverly of Houston. Sisters Mary Ellen, Marie, and Martha Nell, along with brother M.D. preceded her in death.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, December 29th@ 2:00 pm.

The family suggests memorials be made to Ackerman Baptist Church, PO Box 277, Ackerman, Mississippi.

Catherine Floyd

Catherine Floyd, 69, of Louisville, MS., passed on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at the Baptist Medical Center, Columbus, MS. Funeral Service will be Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at 1 p.m., from Still Valley M. B. Church, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Monday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Louisville Memorial Cemetery, Louisville, MS. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Raymond "Dale" Schroeder

Raymond Dale Schroeder, Jr., 64, passed away on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, Mississippi, with his loving family by his side. Visitation will be 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. Saturday, December 16 at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home.

Dale was born in Kentucky, to Carole Rose Burton Schroeder on October 5, 1959. He was an avid New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Braves fan. Dale loved cutting grass and assisting Ginger with all the landscaping in the yard. He was a crew boat captain and a pawn broker. Dale enjoyed going to Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Dale is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Ginger Earwood Schroeder of Louisville; his daughter, Randi Shafer and husband Jeremy and son Michael Schroeder and Sara, also of Louisville; his parents, Carol Burton Schroeder and Gerald Williams. He also leaves behind two sisters Stacey Schroeder and Christie Schroeder of Gulfport, Mississippi and one brother, Benjamin Schroeder of Austin, TX; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. One of his greatest joys was being “Paw Paw” to his five grandchildren whom he dearly loved: Hunter Shafer, Alyssa Shafer, Aaron Shafer, Addison Shafer and Charlie Schroeder. Dale was preceded in death by his grandparents; Nanny and Papaw Burton and Papaw Schroeder.

Serving as honorary pallbearers are Bill Henderson, Shane Norris, Hugh O’Neil, Doug Parsons, Dave Schroeder, Ryan Strickland, Mitch Whitehead, and Bob Wren.

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.

Steven William Puckett

Mr. Steven William Puckett, 73, passed away on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at Baptist Medical Center in Jackson, MS. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Friday, December 15th, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Trent Jaudon and Mr. Mike Fuller officiating. Visitation will be Thursday from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. and Friday from 11:00 A.M. until service time at Porter Funeral Home. Interment will be in Ellison Ridge Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Steve was born August 29, 1950, in Norfolk, VA. He was a 1969 graduate of Louisville High School, and a 1980 graduate of Delta State University with a degree in criminal justice. He began his career in law enforcement in 1975 with the Louisville Police Department. He held many positions within the Mississippi Department of Corrections, including serving as the Warden at Parchman State Penitentiary, Superintendent of Mississippi Department of Corrections, and as the Commissioner of the Mississippi Department of Corrections. Steve was a veteran of the U. S. Navy, having served during the Vietnam era. He was a member of Ellison Ridge Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Kellis and Isabel Hastings Puckett; his sister, Carolyn Palmer; his niece, Alaina Puckett; and his nephew, Caleb Puckett.

Steve is survived by three brothers, John (Glenda) Puckett of Remlap, AL, Joe (Amanda) Puckett of Philadelphia, MS, and Jimmy (Norma) Puckett of Louisville, MS; and his nieces and nephews, Aaron (Tracie) Puckett, Laura (Jeremy) Hodge, Daniel Puckett, Courtney (Trey) Shaw, Lori (Shawn) White, Caitlin Puckett, and Carley Puckett. He was also survived by several great nieces and nephews, Jake (Chaney) Hodge, Luke Hodge, Anna Marie Puckett, Bella White, Emmaline Puckett, Elizabeth Puckett, Roegan Shaw, Ridge Shaw, Reese Shaw, and one great great nephew Houston Hodge.

Pallbearers will be Shawn White, Aaron Puckett, Daniel Puckett, Trey Shaw, Jeremy McCullough, and Jeremy Hodge.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or Ellison Ridge Cemetery Fund.

Bobby Ray Ruth

 Bobby Ray Ruth, 88, passed away on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at his home in Louisville, Mississippi, with his loving family by his side. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, December 13 in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Junior Davis officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 11:00 a.m. until service time at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville. Interment will immediately follow the service in Bevill Hill Cemetery in Louisville.

Full obituary to follow.

Alice Lavonne Jackson Pinkerton

Alice Lavonne Jackson Pinkerton, affectionately known by those closest to her as "Tutti", passed away peacefully on Monday, December 4, 2023, in Biloxi, MS. 

Alice was born in Winston County, MS, on October 18, 1940, to the late W.H. “Punch” Jackson and Grace Haimes Jackson.

For 58 years, Alice lived in Canton, MS, where she raised and educated her two sons in a home filled with color and love. She enjoyed antiquing, cooking, and gardening. Most of all, she cherished her family and her church, First Presbyterian Church in Canton.

She is survived by her sons, Tommy (Trish) Pinkerton of Vancleave, MS and Tim (Carol) Pinkerton of Birmingham, AL; grandchildren, Jessie (Ben) Hawkins of Ocean Springs, MS, Sarah Pinkerton of Philadelphia, PA, and Justin Pinkerton of Denver, CO; great-grandchildren, Lou Hawkins, Maggie Hawkins, and J.P. Hawkins; along with numerous other relatives and friends.

Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 11, 2023, at Pleasant Hill Methodist Church Cemetery #1 in Winston County, MS.

Serita Creekmore Gentry

Ms. Serita Creekmore Gentry, 82, passed away on Sunday, December 10, 2023 with her loving family by her side. Funeral services will be 12 p.m. Tuesday, December 12 in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend David Keen officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 10:00 a.m. until service time at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville, Mississippi. Interment will immediately follow the service in Memorial Cemetery in Louisville.

Ms. Gentry was born November 29, 1941 in Louisville, MS. She worked in banking and property management. After retirement, she continued her hobby of gardening, which you could clearly see as soon as you drove up to her home. She also loved to cook meals, especially around the holiday times for her family. Most Saturdays, you’d see her bright and early at the local yard sales, where she would find many wonderful treasures. When you came to visit her at her home, she would always put on a pot of coffee for you to enjoy while you would sit and visit. She loved collecting angel figurines and each one had a special story behind them.

Ms. Gentry was proceeded in death by her parents J.D. and Laverne Gregory; son, Jeff Creekmore; daughter, Alicia Creekmore Miles; grandson, Adam Miles; and niece, Susan Gregory Dillard.

She is survived by her son, Chris (Bonnie) Creekmore; brother, James Gale (Frances) Gregory; and daughter-in-law, Bonnie Sue Creekmore, all of Louisville; her grandchildren, Jessica (Jacob) Robbins, Jonathan (Shelby) Creekmore, Anthony (Nycole) Miles, Brad (Rachel) Creekmore, and Ben (Alisha) Creekmore; her great grandchildren, Carson Robbins, Colton Robbins, Carly Robbins, Caden Robbins, Camille Robbins, Tayler Grace Miles, Kayten Miles, Ryker Miles, Micah Jayce Creekmore, Alora Creekmore, Brinley Creekmore, Tyler Holcomb, Kennedy Holcomb, and Mercy Diggers; great grandchild, Landry Miles; nephew, Kevin Gregory; great nieces; Logan Nowacki, Jillian DeDeaux, and Bailey Gregory; and great nephew John Atwell Dillard.

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.

Altha Wynell “Nell” Woods

Altha Wynell “Nell” Woods formerly of Ackerman, MS, passed away on Friday, December 8, 2023, at Skelton Personal Care Home in Mathiston, MS. Mrs. Woods was born on May 4, 1941, in Choctaw County, MS to John Jasper and Edith Elizabeth (Shackelford) Wood. She was 82 years old. Mrs. Woods was a retired registered nurse.

Her last position was Director of Nursing at Diamond Grove Center in Louisville, MS.

Funeral services were held at Ackerman Church of Christ in Ackerman, MS on Sunday, December 10, 2023 at 2:30 p.m. Visitation was held prior to service time starting at 1:00 p.m. Burial followed at Salem Cemetery near Ackerman, MS.

Mrs. Woods is survived by 2 sons, Jackie (Luisa) Woods of Ackerman, MS, and Ricky (Susan) Woods of Sturgis, MS; 5 grandchildren, Stan (Seetala) Woods, Thomas (Elizabeth) Woods, Misty Goodin, Shawna Murphy, and Brianna Woods. She also leaves behind a host of great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband and father of her children, Murry Woods, and her 2nd husband, Thomas White; her parents, John Jasper and Edith Elizabeth (Shackelford) Wood; 1 son, Hamp Woods; 1 daughter, Anna Woods; 1 brother, Willie Forest Woods and 1 grandchild, Brittany Woods.

Memorials may be made to the Ackerman Church of Christ or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

John Craig Magyar

John Craig Magyar of Ackerman, MS, passed away on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at his residence in Ackerman, MS. John was born on February 21, 1951, in New Jersey to Anthony and Mary Bess (Clements) Magyar. He was 72years old. John was a retired Chemical Engineer at Kerr-McGee. He attended Enon Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

Graveside services will be held at Salem Independent Methodist Cemetery near Ackerman, MS on Tuesday, December 12, 2023 at 11:30 AM. Burial will follow at Salem Independent Methodist Cemetery near Ackerman, MS. Visitation will be held prior to service time from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS.

John is survived by 2 sons, Anthony (Janell) Magyar of Ackerman, MS, and Chad (Chastity) Magyar of Benton, MS, and a daughter, Renea Easley of Ackerman, MS; 8 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. He is also survived by a brother, Joe Cobb of Ackerman, MS.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Christie Janell (Collier) Magyar; his parents, Anthony and Mary Bess (Clements) Magyar; and one brother, Ty Cobb.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Richard Wayne “Rick” Jenkins

Richard Wayne “Rick” Jenkins passed away Friday,December 8, 2023, at his residence in Ackerman, MS. Rick was born August 4, 1945, in Louisville, KY, to H.L.and Edith (Pitcock) Jenkins. He was 78 years old.

Rick was employed by Kellwood Manufacturing for a number of years in various places around the country. During that time, he was transferred to serve as Plant Manager for the Kellwood Plant in Ackerman, MS. After the plant closed, he elected to stay in Choctaw County and raise his family. He then opened up his own business, Mr. J’s Cleaners, where he served this community until his retirement. Through the years, Rick has been actively involved in community activities and organizations. He served on the Choctaw Regional Medical Center Board of Trustees and was also an active member of the Choctaw County Cruisers.

Memorial services will be held for Rick on Thursday, December 14, 2023, 11:00 a.m., at Chester Baptist Church with graveside services following in the church cemetery. Friends and family are invited to gather at the church for a time of remembrance beginning at 10:00 a.m. prior to service time.

Rick is survived by his wife, Linda (Stovall) Jenkins of Ackerman, MS; 1 daughter, Sherrie Paige Jenkins of Oxford, MS; 2 sons, Christopher Wayne (Anita) Jenkins of Ackerman, MS, and Richard Troy Jenkins of Hattiesburg, MS; 1 sister Sonya Jenkins of Scottsville, KY, and 4 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; 5 sisters, Wanda Page, Doris Fishback, Frances Robbins, Patricia Law, and Bobby Hill; and 3 brothers, Jim Jenkins, Randy Kelly Jenkins, and Billy Jenkins.

Memorials may be made to Chester Baptist Church or to the American Cancer Society.

Willie Ruth Hickman

Willie Ruth Hickman, 76, of Louisville, MS., passed on Thursday, December 7, 2023 at the Winston County Medical Center. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Melvin F. Starnes

Melvin Fred Starnes of Sturgis, MS, passed away on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at his residence near Sturgis, MS. Melvin was born on February 8, 1946 in Sturgis, MS to Joseph and Arlin Juanita (Sanders) Boyd. He was 77 years old. Melvin was a former welder at Gulf States in Starkville, MS.

Memorial visitation services will be held at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church in Bradley, MS on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM. A Memorial Funeral Service will follow at 11:00 AM at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church. Rev. Mike Sanders will officiate.

Melvin is survived by his daughter, Cathy Wyckoff (Steve) of Sturgis, MS, two brothers, Hazel Starnes of Sturgis, MS and Chris Starnes (Debbie) of Sturgis, MS. He is also survived by two grandchildren, Tyler and Johnson Wyckoff and two great grandchildren, William Wilson, Jr. and Julia Wyckoff, as well as two special family members, Jane McCool of Sturgis, MS and her daughter Marci Wilson (William) of Eupora, MS.

He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Arlin Juanita Boyd, three brothers, Joe Allen Starnes, Jesse Howard Starnes, and Donald Clyde Starnes, one sister, Nancy Irene Holston Romaine and each of his paternal and maternal aunts and uncles.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and/or an organization of choice.

Brenda Ballew Dover

Brenda Ballew Dover of Ackerman, MS, passed away on Sunday, December 3, 2023, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Columbus, MS. Brenda was born on December 4, 1955in Chattanooga, TN to William Eugene and Martha Ann (Bursley) Ballew. She was 67 years old. Brenda was a retired Hospitality Clerk for Hampton Inn.

A memorial visitation will be held for family and friends at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM.

Brenda is survived by her sister, Debra (Charles) Box of Ackerman, MS, and her brother, Teddy Ballew of Hixson, TN.

She was preceded in death by her parents William Eugene and Martha Ann (Bursley) Ballew, and one brother, Terry Allen Ballew.

Brenden Latrevion Patty

Brenden Latrevion Patty, 15, of Louisville, MS., passed on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at University Medical Center , Jackson, Mississippi. Funeral Service will be Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 11: a.m., from Still Valley M. B. Church, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Friday, Dec. 8, 2023 from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Louisville Memorial Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

I. L. “Buddy” Pickett

I. L. “Buddy” Pickett, 71, passed away on Thursday, November 30, 2023, at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, Mississippi, with his loving family by his side. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, December 5 in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Bert Jones officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 9:30 a.m. until service time at Nowell-Massey Funeral Home in Louisville, Mississippi. Interment will immediately follow the service in Jacksonfield Cemetery in Winston County.

Buddy was born December 12, 1951, to Leslie and Christine Warren Pickett in Winston County. He was a member of Macedonia Revival Center of Philadelphia, Mississippi. Early in his career, Buddy worked at Taylor Machine Works. Later, he enjoyed serving others at BJ’s Restaurant; he especially enjoyed being able to visit with everyone. He was a fun-loving person who enjoyed teasing others to make them laugh…Buddy was loved by so many. He also enjoyed bream fishing; and, he answered the call of his country by serving in the United States Army.

Buddy is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Janie Drewery Pickett, and his sons, Bert (Holly) Jones, Grant Jones, and Clay (Monica) Fuller. One of his greatest joys was being “Paw Paw Buddy” to his grandchildren: Josh Jones, Peyton (Kenzie) Jones, Cheston Jones (Chynna-Jewelles Hodge Carr), Brady (Mattie) Jones, Kyle (Kayla) Jones, and Nora Fuller. He especially adored his four great-grandchildren: Ryklin, Bodie, Selah, and Joah Jones. Buddy is also survived by four siblings: Doris Lovern, Abbie Smith, Warren Pickett, and Gloria (Wayne) Veazey; in addition to numerous loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, and his siblings: Randolph Pickett, Dorothy Green, Betty Williamson, and Henry Pickett.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, the family requests that memorials in honor of Buddy be given to the funeral home to help defray the service expenses.

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.