Lorene “Tib” Frazier Bruff

Lorene “Tib” Frazier Bruff, age 99, passed away on Friday, May 31, 2024, at Winston Medical Center Nursing Home in Louisville, Mississippi, with her family at her side. Graveside services and interment will be 3 p.m. Sunday, June 2 in Memorial Cemetery with Reverend Jonathan Peeples officiating.

Tib was born April 25, 1925, to John Melvin Frazier and Virginia Rhodes Frazier. She was a lifelong member of Gum Branch Baptist Church where she taught Discipleship Training classes, and was always willing each year to help with Vacation Bible School. At the time of her passing, she was the oldest living member of Gum Branch Baptist Church. Tib was a former member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy. She loved to cook and enjoyed gardening. Tib answered the call of her country by working in the Prairie Ammunitions Factory in Prairie, Mississippi, while her husband, Robert, was also serving our country during World War II.

Tib is survived by her daughters, Judy Bruff Sanders of West Point, Mississippi, and Angie Bruff Marlowe (Jimmy) of Louisville. One of her greatest joys was being “Granny” to her three grandchildren: Bruff (Melanie) Sanders, Kelli (Lloyd) Nanney, and Colby (Rebecca) Clark. She is also survived by five great-grandchildren: Bryce Clark, Landon Clark, Brody Saylors, Eli Saylors, and Brylee Kate Nanney; as well as loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. 

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Robert L. Bruff; son-in-law, Larry Sanders; parents; and her sister, Lottie (Jack) Smith.

Serving as pallbearers are Bruff Sanders, Colby Clark, Bryce Clark, Landon Clark, Brody Saylors, and Eli Saylors. Memorials may be given to Gum Branch Baptist Church, 777 Edwards Street, Sturgis, MS 39769, or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online at stjude.org.
Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.

Karie Anna Broadway

Mrs. Karie Anna Broadway, 31, passed away on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at Mississippi Baptist Medical Center in Jackson, Ms. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, June 2nd, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev Mike Dowd officiating. Visitation will be Sunday from 12:00 P.M. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will be in Center Ridge Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Karie was born January 5, 1993, in Starkville, MS. She was a graduate of Florence High School, and was a member of Crossgates Baptist Church in Brandon, MS. She was a veterinarian tech for Dr. Fred Nabers.

Karie fought till there was nothing left; she had a strong heart. We will carry her with us everywhere we go. We will cherish her memory with lives well lived and she will smile down on us from Heaven.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Mia Shaffer.

She is survived by her husband, Joseph Broadway of McCool, MS; a daughter, Brinleigh Ray and a son, Elijah Broadway, both of McCool, MS; her father, Thom Gordon (Megan Campbell) ; a brother, Blake Ray of Florence, MS; two sisters, Kali Hilton and Linzi Roberts Boyd, both of Florence, MS; and her grandparents, Rev. Dr. Owen and Marie Gordon; and Robert and Kathy Shaffer.

Pallbearers will be Josh Broadway, Kerron Spann, Michael Broadway, Blake Ray, Thom Gordon, and Joseph Broadway.

Memorials may be made to Mississippi Baptist Health Foundation (www.baptisthealthsystems.com) or the Humane Society of the United States (www.humanesociety, org)

Charlotte McAdory

 Arrangements are incomplete at this time. Porter Funeral Home, Louisville, MS

Merle Ruth Cook Jones

Merle Ruth Cook Jones, of Madison, passed on from this life on May 30, 2024 at the age of 95.

The second of four siblings, Merle was born in Matagorda, Texas on December 6, 1928 to the late Alfred Vogg Cook and Katherine Sue Yeamans Cook. She was a homemaker, caregiver, mother and doting grandmother. Blessed with a sweet, giving spirit, she was a great friend to many and the best mother-in law anyone would want. She had an ever-present appetite for good seafood, likely originating from time spent along Matagorda Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway as a child.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, Max C. Jones, her parents and her siblings.

She is survived by her daughter Eileen McKenzie and husband Mike of Madison, MS. She was beloved as “Mamaw Jones” to Tyler McKenzie and wife Rebecca of Harvest, AL, Drew McKenzie of Madison, MS, Abigail McKenzie of Hattiesburg, MS, and Caden McKenzie of Madison, MS.

Visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, June 11, 2024 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at South Union Methodist Church near Ackerman MS, with the Celebration of Life service immediately following. Burial will be in South Union Methodist Church Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to Susan G. Komen organization. www.komen.org.

Robert Earl Harrison

Robert Earl Harrison, 73, of Louisville, MS., passed on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at his home. Funeral Service will be Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 2 p.m., from Beck Funeral Home. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Louisville Memorial Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

John E. Aycock

The family of beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, Mr. John Edwin Aycock, 90 yo, announce his passing on Monday, May 27th in Eupora, MS at NMMC-Eupora. 

He was born on February 28th, 1934 to Homer Keithly and Annie Ruth Aycock in Jackson, TN. 

 He is survived by five children - Dr. Monica Ballard (Kenneth Davidson) of Falkner, MS, Keith Aycock of Mathiston MS, Marc Aycock (Taj Harrower) of Ripley, MS, Robert S Aycock of Duck Hill, MS and Sonya Aycock of Grenada, MS. Five grandchildren – Zac Decker (Geordi Talley) of PC, Florida, Brittany Davidson (Anton Berry) of New Albany, MS, Alli Nance (Ethan) of Ripley, MS, Micah Ballard (Lizzie) of Ashland, MS and Xander Harrower of Ripley, MS. Four great grandchildren – Hannah and Anna Claire Hatfield and Taylin Berry of New Albany, MS and Ava Ballard of Ashland, MS. One niece – Miranda Perry of Mathiston, MS. One nephew – Don Perry of Starkville, MS and one great nephew – Richie Ahmann of Mathiston, MS and various extended family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Homer Keithly and Annie Ruth Aycock and his beloved wife, Mrs. Barbara Ann Perry Aycock.

Mr. John, as he was so fondly known, valued honesty and hard work which he instilled in his children. A man known to be loving and steadfast, as an only child, he doted over his mother and father. As a husband, father, and grandfather, unmatched devotion was his commitment. His love for God, music, history, poetry, animals, his country, and a good laugh, made it hard to not love him for something by all who encountered him. He was a man of so many talents. Whether it was when he was younger in sports, operating machinery in the army, on the field with sports or band, driving a bus, teaching a music lesson, chaperoning kids to tennis courts, ballfields, swimming meets, girl scouts, boy scouts, church, GAs, RAs, or various competitions, his plate was always full and he was always happy to oblige. Never complaining, always maintaining, even if it was just a personal jungle gym himself for kids. He will always be remembered by his family and those around him for his gentle nature and loving demeanor.

In his Bible is marked Psalms 91:2 – “I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God, in Him I trust.” In this verse, he believed. His memory will be honored on May 30th from 5-8 or until with visitation at Chester Baptist Church in Ackerman, MS. Funeral at 11:00 am on Friday, May 31st at Chester Baptist Church in Ackerman, MS. There will be an additional visitation from 10:00 am until service time as well on Friday May31st at Chester Baptist Church.

Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or the Disabled American Veterans.

James Michael McDaniel

James Michael McDaniel, 68, passed away on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at his home in McCool, Mississippi, surrounded by his family. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.

Mike was born January 15, 1956, to Marzene and Eunice Sanders McDaniel. He was an outdoorsman who especially loved gardening and he was a mechanic.

Mike is survived by his wife, Lisa McDaniel; son, Tony Welker of Texas; grandson, Trevor Welker also of Texas; and three sisters, Vera McCarty of Weir, Mississippi; Deborah (Gary) Coleman of Fulton, Mississippi; and Aleita Faye McDaniel also of Weir. He is also survived by his father and mother-in-law, Pat and Alan McQuery; and special friends, Jimmy and Brenda Oliver; in addition to nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Arlis Dean McDaniel.

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.

Walterine Eiland

Walterine Eiland, 92 of Louisville, Mississippi, passed on Monday, May 20, 2024 at her home. Funeral Service will be Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at 11 a.m., from Bethel M. B. Church, 5559 Crystal Ridge Road, Louisville, MS. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. Visitation will be on the day of service one hour prior. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Dihan M. McCullough

Dihan M. McCullough, age 75, passed away on Friday, May 24, 2024, at her home in Louisville, Mississippi, surrounded by those who dearly loved her. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 28 in the Nowell-Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Mike Dowd and Reverend Heath Hillman 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 in Louisville Memorial Cemetery.

Dihan was born October 21, 1948, to John Hulon Miller and Martha Fortenberry Miller. She was an active member of First Baptist Church of Louisville. She helped many families choose their forever home during her career as a realtor of more than 40 years. Dihan married the love of her life, Jerry, on January 28, 1967. After her retirement, she enjoyed sitting on her patio with her dog, Maggie, watching the hummingbirds that came to feast on her flowers. Dihan enjoyed visiting the Smoky Mountains but most of all, she loved her grandchildren.

Dihan is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Jerry McCullough, of Louisville; three children: Todd (Angela) McCullough, Kelly Wilson (Dan Saletzki) all of Louisville, and Molly (Brett) Barton of Frederick, Maryland. One of her greatest joys was being “Grandma” to her seven grandchildren: Corey McCullough, Erin McCullough, Kirby McCullough, Hartley Wilson, Cooper Barton, Laney Barton, and Anna Barton. She is also survived by three siblings, Jannie (Keith) Moorman, Pat (Ricky) McCord, and Tommy (Mollie) Miller, all of Pontotoc, Mississippi; in addition to other special family members, Betty Miller, Peggy Stewart, Susan Owen, and Scotty Wilson; as well as loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Serving as pallbearers are Corey McCullough, Kirby McCullough, Hartley Wilson, Cooper Barton, Scotty Wilson, and Jim McAdory. Memorials may be given to Blair E. Batson Children’s Hospital online at donate.childrensmiraclenetworkhospitals.org.
Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.

Jean Estes Woodruff

Jean Estes Woodruff, age 96, of Louisville, Mississippi went home to be with her LORD and Savior JESUS Christ on May 22, 2024. She was a loving, devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend to those who were dearest to her as she dedicated her life to serving others. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. on Friday, May 24, 2024, at First Baptist Church of Louisville with Reverend Heath Hillman and Trey Woodruff officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 9:30 a.m. until service time at the church. Interment will immediately follow the service in Memorial Cemetery.

Jean was born March 21, 1928, in Winston County, Mississippi to her parents Lottie Craig Estes and Littleton Worthy (Wert) Estes. Growing up in the Calvary community, she was the third of eight children in a family of two sisters and five brothers.

Jean graduated from Noxapater High School in 1946 and attended East Central Junior College to receive an associate degree in education and soon began teaching in rural, county schools and living in teacher housing in Winston County during the early 50’s. She often expressed that those days were difficult as there were few and inadequate amenities in the rural schools. She taught combined grade levels grouped in one classroom which had a chalk board and few textbooks. Jean furthered her education at Mississippi College where she completed a BA degree in secondary education. At Louisville High School, she taught her favorite subjects which were English and literature. Mrs. Woodruff’s high expectations for her students to incorporate grammar and mechanics into composition earned her a legacy of being remembered as their favorite English teacher. Her love for teaching touched many students’ lives over the span of 38 years that she taught in the local school system.

Jean met the love of her life and husband Don Woodruff by accepting a double date arranged by a close teacher friend Mary Catherine McGee and her husband James (Fibber) McGee. She and Don were married on February 11, 1965 at Calvary Baptist Church with only the pastor, his wife, Donnie Woodruff and Donnie’s grandfather, Oscar Thompson attending. She and Don enjoyed a wonderful marriage of twenty years until the time of Don’s death in 1985.

Jean was a caregiver with a servant’s heart for her family, friends, and neighbors. She always seemed to effortlessly have the time needed to take care of her family members and help out with her grandchildren, nieces and nephews who always held a special place in her heart and home. Her love for serving others was spent helping her friends and neighbors who needed meals, rides to church, grocery shopping or taking them to appointments.

Her favorite past time and hobby was found in her own back yard where she made sure there was a plant for every season. She found simple joy in seeing her garden grow, flowers blooming, and getting to add a treasured plant given to her from a friend or a fellow gardener. Jean took pride in meticulously caring for her lawn and garden independent of any help. In fact, she was the sole gardener mowing her lawn with a self-propelled lawn mower until she was 91 years old.

Jean was a member of First Baptist Church of Louisville where she continued her love for teaching. She would spend countless hours studying God’s Word and preparing lessons. Over a period of 40 years, she was a dedicated Sunday School teacher to many different groups of ladies. However, her favorite years were spent teaching her age group known to her as “The Golden Girls” and being a member of the JOY group which they were proudly known as Just Older Youth. She was awarded FBC’s Senior Saint of the Year in 2004.

Jean and her close friends enjoyed sharing lunches, programs at the church each month and taking bus tours with Bro. Billy Bowie. Jean truly enjoyed playing cards with her group of card playing buddies who met faithfully on Friday nights to play Rook. Saturday nights were reserved for a trip out of town to eat catfish. The big decision was, “Who wanted to drive?”

At the age of 93, Jean became a resident at the Bee Hive Home of Louisville. Instantly the staff and fellow residents developed a special bond of friendship and love with Jean. She enjoyed the comradery and the loving, caring atmosphere where she would live for three years.

As a norm, a 95th birthday, if you live to be that old, is definitely considered to be a mile marker in life. Against much persuasion to celebrate her 95th birthday with a grand birthday party, Jean Woodruff refused. Rather than focusing on herself, she chose to raise $95 and donate the money to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital only asking for a one-dollar gift. The Chief of Operations of the Bee Hive Assisted Living, Melba Reed, posted “Mrs. Jean’s” request on their Facebook page. The staff immediately raised $20, but the request went viral. Cards began flooding the mail each day with donations in honor of Jean from family, friends, former students, and from people she did not even know. Within a matter of weeks, the 95-year-old Jean Woodruff had raised and donated over $2300 to St. Jude. She took great pleasure in keeping every one of her cards and counting each dollar.

Jean is survived by her son, Donald M. Woodruff, Jr. and wife, DeLaine; her brother, Jerry Estes and wife, Ilene, all of Louisville. One of her greatest joys was her two grandchildren, Trey (Allison) Woodruff and Joy (Stephen) Busenlehner; her great-grandchildren: Mallory Busenlehner Meyer (Mac), Maddie Busenlehner, Andrew Busenlehner, Colin Woodruff, and John Woodruff. She also leaves behind four sisters-in-law: Patty Estes, Faith Estes, Jane Estes, and Jean Claire Woodruff; as well as loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Donald M. Woodruff, Sr., her parents, and her siblings: Dee Estes, Bob Estes, Wayne (Sylvia) Estes, M. O. Estes, Maxine (Dee) McCool, Elsie (J. C.) Carter, and nephew, Craig Estes.

Jean enjoyed a blessed life of 96 years. She valued the simple and important things in life. And if she knew you, she valued her relationship with you beyond measure. Her motto in life was to “Keep it simple.” Only could we offer this tribute to her posthumously, for she would have only agreed to a short paragraph about her awesome life.

We, the Woodruff family, would like to thank the staff of the Bee Hive Home of Louisville, Dr. Gentry, Winston Medical Center, and Quality Hospice Care, Inc. for the exceptional care that they have given to Jean which went far beyond our expectations.

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.

 

Helen Hill Smith

Funeral services for Helen Ruth Hill Smith will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 26, 2024, at Nowell Massey Funeral Home in Louisville, Mississippi, with Reverends Mark Mayo and Nathan Fitts officiating. Interment will follow in Murphy Creek Cemetery, under the direction of Nowell Massey Funeral Home. A time of visitation will be held at Nowell Massey Funeral home on Sunday, May 26, 2024 from 12:30 p.m. until time of service.

Helen, 86, entered eternal rest in Heaven on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at The Woodlands Healthcare Center in Leesville, Louisiana.

Born October 13, 1937, Mrs. Smith was fiercely independent. She had a passion for gardening and took immense pride in making her yard and flowerbeds beautiful. A loyal and hard worker, Helen retired from her career as a bank teller after over 20 years of service to care for her beloved husband Billy for several years before his death. She was a member of Murphy Creek Baptist Church where she loved attending Sunday school and church. Having a deep appreciation for the importance of family gatherings, she often planned reunions to bring her loved ones together. She will be greatly missed by all who loved her.

Mrs. Smith is preceded in death by her husband, William “Billy” Smith; her babies, Deborah and William; her parents, Oakley Arthur Hill and Mable Clare Wright Hill; her brothers, James E. Hill and Rufus O. Hill; her sisters, Carolyn Imogene Hill Eaves Sheffield, Kathleen Spence Ristom, Betty Jean Hill, and Evelyn Joyce Hill; and her niece, Shirley Spence Rodman.

Left to cherish her memory are her sister, Cynthia Hill Hemphill; her nephews, Donald Eaves (Ludy), Jerry Eaves(Diane), Dennis Eaves(Debora), Ronnie Hill(Shelley), Terry Hill(Jan), Michael Hill(Susan), Steven Hill(Jackie), and Tim Hemphill(Susi); her nieces, Charlotte Eaves Fairchild, Betsy Eaves Reeder(Laurence), Sandra Hill, Monika Hill Behrens(Rich), Jana Hemphill Wilburn(Gary), Tina Hemphill Fitts(Nathan), Melanie Hemphill Bradford(John) and Andrea Hemphill Harrell(Wayne); a host of great nieces and nephews, great great nieces and nephews and close friends.

Memorials may be made to the following places: *Murphy Creek Baptist Church Building Fund, 5420 Bond Road, Louisville, Mississippi 39339 or to Compassionate Care Hospice of Alexandria, 5417 Jackson Street Suite B, Alexandria, Louisiana 71303. (*New Sunday school classes will be built, and the class Helen attended will meet in one of these rooms.)

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.

 

Paul Barron “Bob” Robertson

Paul Barron “Bob” Robertson, 83, passed away on Sunday, May 19, 2024, in Mission Viejo, California. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 25th, at Vernon Assembly of God Church. Visitation will be Saturday from 11:00 A.M. until service time at the church. Interment will be in Vernon Assembly of God Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Paul was born on February 5, 1941, in Louisville, MS, to Wilbur Euin and Vera Ethel Stokes Robertson. Known as Bob, he was the youngest of eleven children -- his mother often referred to him as, “Barron, my baby.” He was generous of heart to his family and friends which was accompanied by a wonderful smile and his memorable laugh. He would always ask how you were before you could ask him the same. He put himself through apprentice school going on to run his own successful construction company for many years until his passing. If you meet Bob, you would soon want to call him a friend.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, Willie Robertson (Pearl), Herman Robertson (Frances), Floyd Robertson, (Gloria), Steven Robertson, Mavis Robertson Hanna (Kenneth), Marion Robertson Bateman (James Paul); Margie Robertson Gully (Grady); Harold Robertson; a sister-in-law, Mary Alice Robertson; and his grandson, David Alan Houston.

He is survived by his children, Anita “Liz” Van De Vanter (Mark), Michele Robertson; his siblings, Wilbur Euin “Junior” Robertson, Maxine Robertson; ex-wife Janice Robertson; his granddaughters Eryn Houston, Amy Knox (Travis); one great granddaughter and numerous nieces and nephews as well as grand nieces and grand nephews.

Walter William Pitt, Jr.

Walter William Pitt, Jr., age 79, passed away on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at Winston Medical Center in Louisville, Mississippi. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later time.
Walter was born October 5, 1944, to Walter William Pitt, Sr. and Emma Iona Womack Pitt in Mobile, Alabama. He worked in electrical and mechanical maintenance. For many years, he worked for Yarbrough Garden Center. He enjoyed gardening and flowers. Walter was preceded in death by his beloved dogs, Sebastian and Sadie; but his current best friend and companion was his dog, Gus. Most of all, Walter loved his family, especially his grandchildren. He answered the call of his country by serving in the United States Air Force.

Walter is survived by his wife, Sabra Pitt of Louisville; and five children: Chelly (James) Phillips of the Nanih Waiya Community, William “Nes” Pitt of Mashulaville, Mississippi, Chris Pitt also of Louisville, Joni (Shane) Prescott of Starkville, and Cindy (Eric) Johnson of Louisville; and one sister, Eloise Smith of Benton, Mississippi. One of his greatest joys was being “Walter” to his 15 grandchildren: Joel Prescott, Aidan Prescott, Nathan Johnson, Aubrey Johnson, Kadee Snow, Johnie Snow, Jordan Hailey, Will Pitt, Jr., Colby Pitt, Brooklyn Pitt, Kayla Pitt, Gunner Pitt, Cooper Pitt, Jacob Pitt, and Cali Pitt; and nine great-grandchildren: Braxton Miller, Logan Rhodes, Madden Snow, Ryder Wyatt, Collin Snow, Bentley Hailey, Emma Hailey, J. J. Hailey, and Nia Pitt; in addition to his nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Holly Pitt; his parents; sister, Juanita Pitt; and brother, David Ledbetter, Sr.

The Pitt family would like to thank CenterWell Home Health for their excellent care of Walter; especially nurses, Mitzi Swindle and Christy King, and his CNA, Rose Glenn. Thank you for making a difficult time in our lives more comfortable.
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.

Wendel A. Massey

Wendel A. Massey, age 81, passed away on Friday, May 17, 2024, at his home in McCool, Mississippi, with those who loved him at his side. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 21 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Ricky Bane and Bro. Mike Dowd officiating. Visitation will be at Massey Funeral Home the day of the service from 12 p.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in Rural Hill Cemetery in Louisville, Mississippi.

Wendel was born May 25, 1942, to Louis A. and Daisy Shumaker Massey in Winston County, Mississippi. He was a member of Rural Hill Methodist Church; he retired from Taylor Machine Works after 40 years of service. Wendel was a very talented craftsman—he could fix anything and he could build anything anyone wanted, whether they showed him a picture or by their description, he could “see” it in his head and design it himself. He enjoyed woodworking; he especially enjoyed making birdhouses, churches, whirligigs, and plaques, all of which he gave away. Wendel received such joy from giving to others; never charging for anything he built. He also enjoyed visiting the Smoky Mountains and built several churches from the Cades Cove area to scale. He answered the call of his country by serving in the Army National Guard.

Wendel is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Carol Patterson Massey; and his daughter, Cathy (Dan) McCool all of McCool, Mississippi. He is also survived by his sister, Carol Coats of Louisville. Wendel was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Sammy Charles “Odie” Massey.

Serving as pallbearers are Murry Lee Black, Michael Collins, Kenny Edwards, Danny Mills, David Patterson, Pete Steed, and Ricky Steed. Memorials may be given to Rural Hill Cemetery Fund, c/o Allen Watts, 675 Sturgis Road, Louisville, MS 39339.

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

Richard Ray

Family to hold a memorial service at a later date.

Mr. Ray, 66, of Philadelphia died Thursday, May 16, 2024

Richard was born in Neshoba County and had lived here his entire life and was a graduate of Philadelphia High School and Hinds Community College. Richard was a member of USMC and ended his duty in 1982. He was the gun room manager for several years at Philadelphia Gun & Pawn. He loved to hunt and ride motorcycles. Richard dearly loved his family and spending time with them. Mr. Ray was Baptist by faith. He will be missed by all.

Survivors include his wife, Jeanene Ray of Philadelphia; daughter, Jessica Emerson (John) of Louisiana; sons, Rod Ray (Dana) of Monticello, AR and Jared Burks (Nicki) of Noxapater; granddaughters, Zoe Burks and MariElla Ray; grandsons, Cameron and Chandler Emerson, Jackson Ray, Landon, Hunter, Tanner and Aiden Burks; sister, Pam Younger (John); brother, Warren Ray; niece, Kathy Berrier (Mike); nephews, David Taylor (Amy) and Kelvin Taylor (Keely); several great nieces and nephews.

Mr. Ray was preceded in death by parents, Rodney and Katherine Ray; sister, Barbara Taylor; sons, Wesley Taylor and James Burks.

Willie Troy Coward Sr.

Willie Troy Coward, age 95, passed away on Friday, May 17, 2024, at Anderson Hospital in Meridian, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Sunday, May 19 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Dusty Coward and Rev. Tommy Jones officiating. Visitation will be at Massey Funeral Home the day of the service from 1 p.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in Oak Grove Cemetery in Noxapater, Mississippi.

Troy was born October 3, 1928, to Willie Archie and Willie Margaret Glass Coward in Noxapater, Mississippi. He was a member of Liberty Baptist Church of Noxapater and he retired from GM&O Railroad after 42 years. He and Jean loved to travel and traveled to all of the 48 contiguous United States. After retirement, he spent his time woodworking, fishing, gardening, and selling anything he could.

Troy is survived by four children: Beverly Wilkes of Noxapater; Janice (Doug) Stephens of Eupora, Mississippi; Troy (Marsha) Coward, Jr.; James (Judy) Coward all of Noxapater. One of his greatest joys was being “PawPaw Troy” to his 10 grandchildren: Jodie (Ralph) Duran, Chet (Amy) Wilkes, Amy (Matt) Page, Stephanie (Ben) Hoffman, Dusty (Brittany) Coward, Justin (Holly) Wilkes, Hays Stephens, Kristy (Clint) Tindall, Corey (Bailey) Coward, and Kayla (Blake) Byrd; 24 great-grandchildren: Ty Duran, Morgan Duran, Madelyn Wilkes, Nona Wilkes, Carson Page, Hallie Page, Walter Hoffman, Grady Hoffman, Clara Hoffman, Timothy Coward, Riley Coward, Elijah Wilkes, Jodie Wilkes, Zane Wilkes, Addie Claire Stephens, Emily Stephens, Blakelee Stephens, Connor Tindall, Emma Tindall, Baylor Tindall, Mac Coward, Bo Coward, Baker Byrd, and Ellie Rose Bryd; and one great-great-grandchild, Oakleigh Wilkes, in addition to a host of nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Troy is also survived by his brother Olyn (Betty) Coward of Philadelphia, Mississippi; in-laws, Jewel and Evelyn Brumfield of Bogalusa, Louisiana; and Gene and Jennie Norman of Summit, Mississippi. He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Jean Brumfield Coward; son-in-law, Tuck Wilkes; and granddaughter, Amanda Coward; his parents; and 11 siblings: Wessie Patton, Birdie Stevens, Arlene Thomas, Wilma Wilson, Sybil Kinard, Thomas Coward, Prentiss Coward, Percy Coward, Bill Coward, Dewey Coward, and Adam Coward.

Serving as pallbearers are Chet Wilkes, Justin Wilkes, Corey Coward, Hays Stephens, Blake Byrd, Ben Hoffman, Clint Tindall, and Matt Page. Memorials may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online at stjude.org or to Winston-Choctaw Gideon Camp, P. O. Box 556, Louisville, MS 39339

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

Sonja Gail Parker

Memorial service for Ms. Sonja Gail Parker will be held at 7 PM Friday, May 17, 2024, at John E. Stephens Chapel with Rev. John E. Stephens officiating. Visitation will be 6 PM – 7 PM Friday, May 17, 2024 at John E. Stephens Chapel.Ms. Parker, 55, passed away Sunday, May 12, 2024, at her home in Louisville, MS.

She is proceeded by her parents Charles Russell and Lurline Dorman Russell; brother, Jerome Russell.

Survivors include sisters, Shayla Woods and Logan Marie Parker; sister, Libby Storey, Lashawn Jones, Shirley Adams; brother, Mikel Denson; (2) grandchildren.

Dorothy Louise Swindle

Funeral services for Ms. Dorothy Louise Swindle were held at 11 AM Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at Hight Assembly of God Church with Rev. Tom Bentley and Rev. Greg Thomas officiating. Interment was in the church cemetery. Visitation began at 10 AM until time for service Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at Hight Assembly of God Church. John E. Stephens Chapel was in charge of arrangements.

Ms. Swindle, 94, passed away Saturday, May 11, 2024, at her home in Noxapater, MS where she lived most of her life. She was a member of Hight Assembly of God Church and she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, sewing, and cooking.

She is preceded in death by her husband Jessie F. Swindle; parents, John Pink Winters and Etta Alma Scallon; sisters, Dessie and Doris; brothers, Billy, Jimmy, and John Winters; grandson, Wade Swindle; son-in-law, Jim Bishop.

Survivors include her daughters, Elsie Bishop, Faye Ellis (Bobby); sons, Wayne Swindle (Shirley), John Swindle (Linda), sister, Carolyn Kelly, brother, William Winters, (6) grandchildren; (13) great-grandchildren; (4) great-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers: Kevin Ellis, Bruce Ellis, Jay Swindle, Brad Nagel, Steve Hammack, Sam Rudolph.

Markeius Desmon Colston

Markeius Desmon Colston, 30, of Louisville, MS. passed on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at the Winston County Hospital, Louisville, MS. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later by the Beck Funeral Home of Louisville. 

Markeius, is survived by his parents; Willie Wayne Colston and LaShunda McMillian; siblings, Lakeitric Coleman, Dashanti McMillian, Makayla Paty, Savanah Triplett and Shenicka Triplett all of Louisville, MS. and Treiona Harris of Meridian, MS. and a host of other relatives and friends.

Linda Jean Baxter

Linda Jean Baxter, of Weir, MS, passed away Saturday, May 11, 2024, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, MS. Linda was born on October 27, 1945, in Ackerman, MS, to Loran and Immogene (King) McKnight. She was 78 years old. Linda was a devoted housewife and mother.

Funeral services were held on Monday, May 13, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS. Burial followed at South Union Cemetery near Ackerman, MS. Visitation was held from 10:00 a.m. till service time at Coleman Funeral Home.

Linda is survived by her husband, Roy Baxter of Ackerman. MS; 2 sons, Tony (Mary) Higgins of Weir, MS; Jonathon Baxter of Sturgis, MS; 1 brother, Dale McKnight of Weir, MS; 2 grandchildren, Scott Peacock and Timmy Higgins; 3 great-grandchildren, Harley Higgins, Fynleigh Higgins, and Ashlynn Peacock.

She was preceded in death by her parents, 1 daughter, Melinda Peacock, and 4 brothers, Jackie McKnight, Donnie McKnight, Dennis McKnight, and Jimmy Wayne McKnight.

Memorials may be made to South Union Cemetery near Ackerman, MS.

McArthur McCully

 McArthur McCully, 61, of Louisville, MS., passed on Monday, May 13, 2024 at Baptist Medical Center, Columbus, MS. Funeral service will be Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at 2 p.m. from Miller's Chapel M. B. Church, Sturgis Road, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Monday 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.

McArthur is survived by; children, Vontreal D. Hunt, Ervin Montreal Coburn, Brittany Cistrunk, QuaMessha Eiland, Andrewnette Walker and Ashton Walker; Mother, Vera Jernigan; siblings; Ernestine McCully Pattie, Jennifer Jernigan Little, Melvin Jernigan, Gregory Jernigan and Latitus Jernigan; grands, 21 grands, 1 great grand, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Robert Wayne Farish,

Robert Wayne Farish, 73, died Sunday, May 12, 2024 in Owasso, OK. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Saturday, May 18, at Porter Funeral Home in Louisville, MS with interment in Union Ridge Cemetery in Noxapater. R. Wayne was born November 30, 1950, in Philadelphia, MS. He graduated from Noxapater High School and went on to receive a business degree from his beloved Mississippi State University in 1972. Soon after college he began his lifelong career at Stuart C. Irby Company.

R. Wayne was quite a character and will be remembered for his sense of humor and elaborate story telling skills. He loved the Mississippi State Bulldogs, watching Indy 500 and hanging out listening to music in his bunkhouse behind the pool.

He is survived by his wife, Helen Ruth Farish (Ruthie) of Owasso, OK; his daughter, Kim Dykes, and her husband, Wayne, of Owasso OK; grandchildren, Aubrey Dykes Castner, and her husband, Matt, Ben Dykes and Sammy Dykes, all of Owasso, OK; Kacy Gilley, and her husband Chris of Medina, TN; great grandchildren, McKinley and Kail Ifantis of Medina, TN; nephew, Neal Iverlett of Murfreesboro TN; grand nieces, Briley and Brennan Iverlett of Murfreesboro, TN; Brother in law, Spencer Iverlett of Smithville, TN; cousins, Diane Hartness and husband, Larry of Madison, MS, Roma Jean Gore and husband Coach of Waynesboro, MS.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Dot Farish of Noxapater, MS; one sister, Faye Iverlett of Smithville, TN, and his son, Robert Tyler Miller Farish of Owasso, OK. He attended First Church in Owasso, OK.

Memorials may be made to Union Ridge Cemetery Fund, c/o Jamie Clark, 1629 Johnson 5 Road, Noxapater, MS, 39346.

Mary Ann Arterberry Miller

 Mary Ann Arterberry Miller, 67, of Louisville, MS., passed on Sunday, May 12, 2024 at the Scott County Hospital, Morton, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 2 p.m., from Calvary Apostolic Faith Church, 54 Beal Avenue, Louisville, MS. 39339. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Mount Sinai Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Frances Carr Spears

Mrs. Frances Carr Spears, 86, passed away on May 13, 2024, at her home in Brandon, MS. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Sunday, May 19th at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Owen Gordon officiating. Visitation will be held Sunday from 2:00 P.M. until the service time at the funeral home. Interment will be in Center Ridge Methodist Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Frances was born December 14, 1937, in Louisville, MS. She attended Ford High School and Louisville High School. She went to work at the Mississippi State Hospital in Whitfield, where she met J. W. Spears. They married and spent all of her life in Brandon and Pearl. She worked as a secretary for S. N. Thomas & Sons, a wholesale dry goods company. She was a longtime faithful member of Grace Baptist Church. Frances loved cooking, spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She loved her flowers (potted) and working in her garden.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Wallace “J.W.” Spears; one son, Dave Spears; her parents, Wilmon D. and Ollie Mae Kelly Carr; and her sisters, Agnes Landberg and Emma Hyde.

She is survived by her daughter, Pam (Mike) Broadway of Brandon, MS; one son, Jim Spears of Brandon, MS; 4 grandchildren, Zachary Spears, Joshua (Nay) Broadway, Joseph (Karie) Broadway, and Whitney (Kerron) Spann; and her great grandchildren, Ashlyn Spears, Amery Spears, Bryson Spears, Isaiah Broadway, Jacob Broadway, Ally Cirino, Elijah Broadway, Brinleigh Ray, Tre’ Spann, and Charlie Spann. 

Pallbearers will be Mike Broadway, Joshua Broadway, Joseph Broadway, Kerron Spann, Zachary Spears, Barry Storey, Isaiah Broadway, and Danny Mills.

Ralph Skinner

Ralph Donald Skinner went to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at UMMC in Jackson, Mississippi, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on March 15, 1958 to Maxie D. and Maggie Anders Skinner in Ackerman, MS. He is affectionately remembered as a devoted husband, brother, uncle, and friend.

In 1976, Ralph graduated from Ackerman High School. He immediately began his career as a construction worker employed by several building contractors through the years before starting his own construction business. For more than 20 years, he worked as a self-employed contractor building homes for many individuals. Then, he began his favorite work as a self-employed excavation contractor owning bulldozers, track hoes, dirt pans, etc. Ralph worked for over 25 years in the construction business helping people’s dreams become reality by constructing beautiful ponds, house sites, shop layouts, and other landscape scenes.

Ralph is survived by his wife of 40 years, Theresa Perry Skinner, of Ackerman. He is also survived by his sisters, Donnell (Larry) Saxon of Starkville, MS and Shelia (John) Lance of Ackerman, MS, one brother, Dan (Suzzane) Skinner of Nashville, TN and a host of nieces and nephews. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Maxie Skinner.

As a member of Chester Baptist Church, Ralph served the Lord faithfully as a deacon for 38 years. He was also a Sunday School teacher and served in many other roles as needed. Ralph had perfect attendance in Sunday School for over 35years.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, May 15, at 12:00 noon. at Chester Baptist Church 177 West Road, Ackerman, MS. Visitation was Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at Chester Baptist Church from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, prior to the service. Burial was  in Salem Cemetery in Chester, Mississippi.

Pallbearers are Donald Saxon, Brady Lance, Drew Lance, Brandon Skinner, Jim Goza, and Dakota Brasher. Honorary pallbearers are members of the Men’s I Sunday School Classwhich Ralph taught faithfully for over 25 years. 

 Coleman Funeral Home of Ackerman, MS was in charge of all arrangements. 

 Memorials may be made to The Rock Campus Outreach (Brock Lillis), P. O. Box 10535, Murfreesboro, TN 37129 or Christian Way United, P. O. Box 1132, Ackerman, MS 39735.

Jimmy Carter

Jimmy Carter, 80, of Louisville, MS., passed on Thursday, May 9, 2024 at the Winston County Nursing Home, Louisville, MS. Funeral Service will be Friday, May 17, 2024 at 2 p.m., from Beck Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will be the day of service. Burial will be in the Mount Cannie Cemetery, Louisville, MS. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Ida Mae Miller

Mrs. Ida Mae Miller, 93, of Louisville, MS., passed on Sunday, May 5, 2024 at the Choctaw County Nursing Home, Ackerman, Mississippi. Funeral Service will be Friday, May 10, 2024 at 1 p.m., from New Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Louisville, MS. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Eva Sue Gibson

Eva Sue Gibson passed away at home on Saturday May 4, 2024, at the age of 91. Eva Sue was born in Noxapater, MS, to Gladys and Tommie Johnson. She attended all 12 years at Noxapater Schools. She graduated in 1950, then attended East Central Junior College for one year and transferred to the University of Southern Mississippi. Sue received her degree in Home Economics in 1954. She taught Home Economics at Mathiston for two years, and met and married Wendell Gibson of DeKalb, Mississippi. Moving to Dadeville, Alabama, Sue was a Home Demonstration Agent, while Wendell attended Auburn University in the School of Forestry. Wendell and Sue moved to Starkville. Sue taught Home Economics in Mathiston and Wendell started Mississippi Highway Safety Patrol School. Sue later finished her teaching career at Armstrong Junior High School in Starkville and retired in 1987. Sue was a member of Starkville First United Methodist Church and the Savage Bible Sunday School Class, where she was very active in numerous mission trips and was always willing to serve others.

Sue is survived by a loving and devoted daughter, Wendy Gibson. She is also survived by grandkids: Sarah Jolly, Christina Thompson, Shelby Huddleston, Aaron Brown, Mandi Anderson, Grant Alexander, Emily Beamer, and Maggie McMinn, and her great-grandkids, Jake Peake, Trent Peake, Brantley Peake, Lottie Sims, Riley Thompson, Maverick Thompson, Remy Anderson, Reid Brown, Jon Russel Brown, and Joanna Brown. Sue is survived by many nieces, nephews, bonus family members, and wonderful friends. She is also survived by caregivers, that she loved dearly, Ethel Johnson and Aretha Jordan. A special thank you to Melissa Flake, her Hospice nurse, and Kuianna Hayes, her Hospice aid, for their love and care. And, last but not least, Sue loved the pets in her life, Zoe, Watson, Sully and Abby.

Sue was preceded in death by her husband, Wendell Gibson, her parents, Gladys and Tommie Johnson, her sisters, Inez Halford and Bettye Stennis, and her brother, Billy Johnson.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for memorials to be donated to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital - 262 Danny Thomas Pl., Memphis, TN 38105

Starkville First United Methodist Church - 200 W. Lampkin St., Starkville, MS 39759

Shriner’s Hospital for Children - P.O. Box 1525, Ranson, WV 25438

Oktibbeha County Humane Society – P.O. Box 297, Starkville, MS 39760

Mississippi State University Vet School – Jimmy Kight, jkight@foundation.msstate.edu

Visitation will be on Wednesday, May 8 starting at 10:00 am- 11:00 am at First United Methodist Church in Starkville with the funeral at 11:00 am Burial will be at Memorial Garden Park Cemetery.

Willis Gerald “Bill” Starnes

Mr. Willis Gerald “Bill” Starnes, 83, of Ackerman, MS, passed away on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Choctaw County Nursing Home in Ackerman, MS. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, May 6th, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Rob Faulk officiating. Visitation will be Monday from 9:00 A.M. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will be in Evergreen Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home of Louisville is in charge of arrangements.

Bill was born on April 18, 9141, to Cay and Addie McBride Starnes. A longtime resident of Ackerman, he was a member of Chester Baptist Church. Bill enjoyed the outdoors and spending time at the old family home place.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy Childress Starnes; his sisters, Vera Lois Henderson, Mildred Ballard, Eunice Crittenden, Barbara Starnes, Bessie McMillian, and Mary Ann Hirose; and his brothers, Donald Paul Starnes, Harold Starnes, Larry McBride Starnes and Randy Starnes.

He is survived by three sisters, Mamie Ruth Dickerson of Ackerman, Saundra Wright of Fentress, and Opal Starnes Prewitt of Texas; a brother, Howard Starnes of New Orleans, LA, and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews; and many life long friends.

Pallbearers will be David Starnes, Paul Starnes, Tyler Flake, and Taylor Flake.

Memorials in Bill’s memory may be made to French Camp Academy or St. Judes Childrens Hospital.

  

Deborah Maureen McEachern Mills

Deborah Maureen McEachern Mills of Ackerman, MS, passed away on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at her residence. Deborah was born on November 24, 1952, in Atlanta, GA to Kenneth Franklin and Maurine (Ellingburg) McEachern. She was 71 years old. She grew up in Vaiden, MS, and spent most of her life in Jackson and Brandon, MS. Deborah was a Retired Financial Consultant for Nursing Home Facilities.

She attended Holmes Community College where she was crowned Most Beautiful in 1971. Deborah lived a full life and always had a smile on her face; she was a social butterfly. She loved spending time with her daughter, grandchildren, and friends. Her greatest joys were playing card games, watching football, shopping, cooking, reading and most of all, spoiling her cocker spaniel, Rascal.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Deborah at Shongalo Presbyterian Church in Vaiden, MS on Thursday, May 9, 2024, at 2:00 PM.

Deborah is survived by her daughter, Leigh Knighton (Lee) Ellington of Ackerman, MS; two brothers, Robert (Linda) McEachern of Tupelo, MS and Kenneth Wayne (Linda) McEachern of Vaiden, MS; two grandchildren, Mauri Wilson and Miller Wilson, and one step-granddaughter, Devan Ellington. She also leaves behind three nieces, Lisa Garrett Norman, Leslie McEachern Pearman, Jennifer McEachern Roberts, and one nephew, Gerald Garrett.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth Franklin and Maurine (Ellingburg) McEachern, a sister, Barbara (McEachern) Garrett, and a brother, Martin McEachern.

Carol Jean Adcock

Funeral services for Ms. Carol Jean Adcock will be held at 2 PM Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Bethlehem Pentecostal Church. Interment will be in the Bethlehem Pentecostal Church Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 12 PM – 2 PM Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Bethlehem Pentecostal Church. John E. Stephens Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Ms. Adcock, 77, passed away Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at her home in Winston County. She lived most of her life in the Four Corners Community and was a member of Bethlehem Pentecostal Church. She enjoyed painting, knitting, and gardening.

Ms. Adcock is preceded in death by her parents, Julius Rosenwald Bennett and Helen Imogene Vowell Bennett.

She is survived by her daughters, Valerie Smith (Dale) of Hutto, TX, and Kelli Pope (Casey) of Philadelphia, MS; sister, Penny Hobson; brother, Andy Bennett both of McCool, MS; (6) grandchildren, Lacey Morris, Reagan Pope, Parker Pope, Gracie Pope, Landon Smith, Hannah Smith;(3) great- grandchildren, Ezra Jean Smith, Jackson Smith, Ida Rugely; (2) extra grandchildren, Taylor and Carter Adcock and several nieces and nephews.

Carl Christopher “Chris” Robertson

Mr. Carl Christopher “Chris” Robertson, 61, passed away on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at Winston County Nursing Home in Louisville. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A. M. on Friday, May 3rd, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Gary Courtney and Rev. Glynn Barker officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 9:00 A.M. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will be in Murphy Creek Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Chris was born in Winston County, MS, to Horace and Betty Robertson, on August 20, 1962. He attended Louisville High School, and then served in the U. S. Army. After military service, he enjoyed a long career as a long-haul truck driver. Chris was an avid Auburn Tigers football fan and a Richard Petty Race Car driver fan. He was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his adopted son, Hunter Robertson and step-daughter, Ashley (Wes) Ware and Chris (Jessica) Hamm, five grandchildren; his sisters, Frances R. Jones and Beverly Barker; his brothers Danny (Michelle) Robertson, Mike Robertson and Don Robertson, and several nieces and nephews. He also leaves three genuine, very close friends from Selma, AL, Ken Smith, Donald Scurlock, and Rev. Gary Courtney.

Pallbearers will be Wesley Ware, Kade Ware, Hunter Robertson, Heath Robertson, Paighton Edwards, and Brittan Barker.

Memorials in Chris’ memory may be made to Murphy Creek Cemetery Fund, c/o Freddie Fulcher, 1405 Bond Road, Louisville, MS,

Jeremy Rodgius Shell

Jeremy Rodgius Shell, 30, of Louisville, MS, passed on Sunday, April 21, 2024, in Houston Texas.

Funeral service will be Sunday, May 5, 2024, at 2 p.m., from Warren Chapel COGIC, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Saturday, May 4, 2024 from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Louisville Memorial Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville is in charge of arrangements.

Linda Marie Hampton

 Linda Marie Hampton, 74, of Louisville, MS., was born to the parents of James Henry Vaughn and Lucretia Jones on May 31, 1949 in Oktibbeha County Mississippi. Linda passed on Wednesday, May 1, 2024 at her home.  Funeral service will be Monday, May 6, 2024 at 11 a.m., from Mount Sinai M. B. Church, Hwy. 397, Louisville, MS. Burial will be in church Cemetery. 

Linda, leaves to cherish her memory; husband, Calvin D. Hampton; children, Calvin Cardelle (Nicole) Hampton, Cynthia Latrece Corbett, Katina Renee (Gbenga) Ibitaye, Songa Rochette Hampton; stepson, Destry Haynes; Sibling, James Vaughn, Charles (Bernice) Stallings, Mary (John) McGee and Julia Hudson; 5 Grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Montrell Lashon Curtis

Montrell Lashon Curtis, 32, of Elkhart Indiana, formerly of Ackerman, Mississippi, passed on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at the Elkhart General Hospital, Elkhart, Indiana of an auto accident.

Montrell was born to his parents, Tammy Cork and Ricky Curtis on January 9, 1992.Funeral Services will be Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 11 a.m., from Reform Chapel M. B. Church, Ackerman, MS. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m. from the Funeral Home in Weir. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery.

Montrell leaves to cherish his memory; parents, Tammy (Robert) Cork and Ricky (Linda) Curtis; son, Camryn Cantrell Walker of West Point, MS; brothers, Micheal(Savanna) Cork, Ackerman, MS., Jamarion Curtis of Tupelo, MS. and Jarvis T. Curits of Louisville, MS; sisters, Shirreka Robinson of Ackerman, MS., and Jacklin Eiland of Louisville, MS; special friend, Roshunda Wagner and a host of other relatives and friends.

Beck Funeral Home of Weir is in charge of arrangements.