Wednesday, January 31, 2024
Roxene H. Atkinson
She was preceded in death by her parents, Angus and Hassie Hall, her husband, Charles, and her sister, Dr. Virginia Read.
She is survived by her two daughters, Betty Lynn Atkinson of Florence MS, and Jeannie Atkinson White and her husband, Yaun White of Alabaster AL, and their two daughters, Maggie and Hannah White.
Visitation is scheduled for Friday, February 2, 2024, from 9:45 am to 10:45 am at Welch Funeral Home in Starkville, MS, with the funeral service following at 11:00 am. Dr. Martin Lifer will conduct the service. Burial will be in Oddfellows Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Palmer Home for Children, 800 Baldwin Road South, Lake Cormorant, MS 38641, or French Camp Academy, 1 Fine Place, French Camp, MS 39745.
Milton Maury
Tuesday, January 30, 2024
Reverend Edward Paul Saunders, “Bro. Ed”
Reverend Edward Paul Saunders, “Bro. Ed”, age 63, passed away in an accident at his home in Louisville, Mississippi, on Tuesday, January 16, 2024. He had been serving as the pastor of Noxapater United Methodist Church since June 2023. Funeral services will be on Saturday, February 3, at 2:00 p.m. at Noxapater United Methodist Church with Reverend Hal Hall officiating. Visitation will be on the day of the service from 1 p.m. until service time at the church. Interment will immediately follow the service in Union United Methodist Church Cemetery in DeKalb, Mississippi.
Bro. Ed graduated with a Master of Divinity from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. He moved to Noxapater with his family after pastoring churches in Carrollton, North Carrollton, and Sidon for nine years. Bro. Ed has served in the Mississippi Conference for 30 years. Born on October 16, 1960, to Dr. John Van Dyke Saunders and Julia V. Saunders of Starkville. His father was head of the Sociology Department at Mississippi State University from 1973-1996. His mother has been an outstanding community member in which she received many rewards and honors. He went to First United Methodist Church of Starkville in the “UMYF” United Methodist Youth Fellowship.
Bro. Ed is survived by his loving wife of 22.5 years, Angelene Robbins Saunders; and his daughter, Elizabeth Saunders both of Louisville. He is also survived by two brothers, Thom Saunders and wife, Susan Allen, of Ann Arbor, Michigan; and Andrew Saunders of Dallas, Texas. Bro. Ed was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorials in honor of Bro. Ed may be given to the Winston-Choctaw Gideon Camp, P. O. Box 556, Louisville, MS 39339.
Sunday, January 28, 2024
Dr. William "Billy" Davis
Billy was born on March 13, 1955, to Walter and Ava Davis in Forest, Mississippi. He graduated from Louisville High School in 1973. He attended the University of Mississippi at Ole Miss for his undergraduate education where he excelled in advanced mathematics and medical sciences. Following his undergraduate education, he attended the University of Mississippi School of Medicine in Jackson, Mississippi, graduating in 1981. He completed his Internal Medicine Residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 1984. During his time at UMMC, he was inducted into the distinguished Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society where membership confers recognition for a physician’s dedication to the profession and art of healing. Dr. Davis was undoubtedly dedicated to his profession and well-respected by all who worked alongside him as he practiced medicine and served as the emergency department medical director at OCH Regional Medical Center for 30 plus years. In his spare time, Dr. Billy was an avid hunter and fisherman. Most of all, he was a loving husband, daddy, and grandfather. His calm and gentle spirit always served as an anchor of hope and resilience as he was an unwavering leader to his family, friends, colleagues, and patients through all walks of life.
Dr. Davis is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Dianne Patterson Davis of Louisville, Mississippi; and his children: Jess Davis of Germantown, Tennessee; Jennings Davis of Victor, Colorado; and Foley Davis Graham of Louisville, Mississippi. His greatest joy was being “Big Toe” to his granddaughter, Josie Kate Graham. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Rebecca Patterson Davis; brothers Gene (Midge) Davis of Brookville, MS; along with David Davis and James Davis both of Louisville, MS. He was preceded in death by his parents and his eldest brother.
Serving as pallbearers are Vance Taylor, Steve Roberts, Rick Eaves, Lee Kirkpatrick, Hilry Woodruff, and Kevin McCarter. Honorary pallbearers include Dr. Curtis Balius, Dr. Davis Woodward, Dr. Bill Carr, Eddie Coats, and the OCH Emergency Department physicians, nurses and staff that worked alongside him as his second family during his 30 plus year tenure at the hospital.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Drew Anthony and Dr. Dane Ballard for the exceptional medical care, guidance, and loving support they provided Dr. Davis and his family over the last several years.
Eddie Ali Cotton
Ali will be remembered as a cherished member of his community, leaving behind a legacy filled with love and kindness. He touched the lives of many and his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Eddie had a warm and gentle spirit that instantly drew people towards him. His infectious smile and genuine compassion created an inviting presence that made everyone feel comfortable in his company. Whether he was spending time with family or engaging in conversations with friends, Eddie constantly radiated joy and goodwill.
Born and raised in Louisville, Mississippi, Ali developed a deep appreciation for his hometown. He took great pride in his roots and often shared fascinating stories about growing up in the close-knit community. His nostalgic tales captivated listeners and painted vivid pictures of the vibrant culture and rich history that shaped him.
Ali's love for people extended beyond his own community. He had an uncanny ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life. His empathetic nature allowed him to understand and support others during both their triumphs and struggles. Eddie could brighten even the darkest days with his reassuring words of encouragement.
Eddie Ali Cotton was a man of many passions. He had an insatiable curiosity for learning new things. From reading books to watching documentaries, Ali was always eager to expand his knowledge and broaden his horizons. His thirst for knowledge inspired those around him to continuously seek personal growth.
Beyond intellectual pursuits, Eddie had a deep appreciation for nature's beauty. Spending time outdoors brought him tremendous joy, whether it was hiking through scenic landscapes or simply taking a leisurely stroll under the open sky. For Eddie, nature provided solace and allowed him to find peace within himself.
One of Ali's greatest loves was music. He had an extensive collection of records, and his eclectic taste spanned various genres and eras. Eddie often shared his favorite songs with others, believing that music had the power to heal and unite people from different backgrounds. His vibrant spirit could be felt through every note he played or sang along to.
Above all, Eddie Ali Cotton was a devoted family man. His love for his wife, children, and grandchildren knew no bounds. He cherished each precious moment spent together, creating unforgettable memories and nurturing unbreakable bonds. As a father and grandfather, he led by example, teaching the importance of compassion, respect, and unconditional love.
On Saturday, February 10, 2024, friends and loved ones will gather for a visitation at Beck Funeral Home in Louisville. The kind staff at Beck Funeral Home will oversee the arrangements to ensure a fitting farewell for this remarkable soul.
Eddie Ali Cotton leaves behind an enduring legacy filled with love, compassion, and a zest for life. His presence will be sorely missed but his spirit will continue to inspire all those fortunate enough to have known him. Eddie's memory will forever remain etched in our hearts as we fondly recall the impact he had on our lives.
In honoring Eddie's memory, may we strive to incorporate his kindness and passion into our own lives. Let us remember that small acts of goodness can have a profound ripple effect on others. May we carry forward Ali's spirit of joy and empathy as we navigate life's journey.
Today we bid farewell to a beloved friend, son, husband, father, and grandfather. Our hearts are heavy with grief but also filled with gratitude for having been touched by Eddie's warmth and love. As we say our final goodbyes, let us celebrate the extraordinary life that Eddie Ali Cotton lived and the legacy he leaves behind.
Thursday, January 25, 2024
Charles Garrigues Clark
Charles was a U.S. Army veteran, a faithful member and former board member of the First Methodist Church and an avid outdoorsman. Charles loved to be outdoors taking the opportunity to explore the woods and hunt game from an early age.
He is survived by his two brothers, Robert and Joe, his wife Gerry, his three children, Chuck, Samantha, and Courtney and his five grandchildren, Dade and Hodgson Bookout and Harper, Bodie and Cooper Buxner.
The funeral services will be at 4:00pm on Sunday, January 28th, at First Methodist Church, Rev. Mike Childs officiating. Visitation from 2pm-4pm at First Method Church preceding the funeral. Interment to follow the funeral at Memorial Park Cemetery.
Dade Bookout, Hodgson Bookout, Bodie Buxner, Cooper Buxner, Robert E. Clark, Jr., Jackson Clark, Willy Triplett and Ken Sanders will serve as pallbearers.
Memorials in Charles’ memory may be made to First Methodist Church, P.O. Box 523, Louisville, MS 39339 and/or Friends of Legion Park, 635 Legion State Park Rd, Louisville, MS 39339.
Lamar Hudson
Colon “Hershel” Thompson
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Connie Jean Thompson Dempsey, one brother, James Edward, and four sisters, Mary virginia, Glenda Faye, Charlsie, and Marilyn.
He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Patricia “Pat” Beverly Thompson, of Ackerman, his daughter, Beverly Thompson Rowan of Starkville, Ms. three grandchildren, Sonya (Ashley) Anderson of West Point, Ms., Tyiece (Steven) Woodward of Oklahoma. Tony (Lisa) Berryman of Alabama. ten great grandchildren and ten great-great grandchildren. two sisters, Linda and Jean
The family would like to thank the VA Nursing Home of Kosciusko, MS, and Halcyon Hospice of Philadelphia, MS for the care and support that they gave Mr. Thompson during his brief time as a resident there.
Funeral and visitation arrangements will be at Welch Funeral Home in Starkville, Ms. on Sunday, January 28, 2024. Visitation hours are from 1:00-2:00 p.m. The funeral will immediately follow visitation in the funeral home chapel with Minister Clifton Curtis
The interment will be in Center Grove Baptist Church Cemetery in Maben, MS. In lieu of flowers and/or donations, the family would like it to be donated in memory of Hershel Thompson to the Alzheimer’s Association 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl 17, Chicago, IL 60601.
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
Bro. Randall Boatner
Bro. Boatner, 73, of Philadelphia, died Wednesday, January 17, 2024.
Bro. Randall was a native and longtime resident of Plattsburg Community Of Winston County. He formerly worked as a commercial welder for Yates Construction and Taylor Machine Works. He was saved in 1992 and called to ministry in 1993. Bro. Boatner pastored Way of the Cross “Cowboy Baptist” Church in Plattsburg and did evangelist work all over the United States and abroad. He also had a changed gang recovery ministry at his church. He started riding horses at the age of 6 years and won state championship in 4-H competition. He loved to share his horsemanship skills with children and grandchildren, and also taught children at Vacation Bible School with his horsemanship.
Survivors include his wife, Sandy W. Boatner of Plattsburg; children, Angela Boatner of Philadelphia, Randy Pauley of Philadelphia, Amy Caudill (Gary) of Thomson, GA and Bob Boatner of Philadelphia; grandchildren, Jessie Palmer, Jake Boatner, Daniel and Stephen Pauley, Elijah, Caleb, Joseph, Jonathan and Jude Caudill, April Boatner and Aly Winstead; great-grandchildren, Lucas and Colton Boatner, Lucy Palmer, Carter and Khloe Pauley; and sister, Debra Counce.
Bro. Boatner was preceded in death by parents, Kimble Boatner and Marie Blount; brothers, Donnie and Ronnie Clyde Boatner.
Pallbearers, Robert Boatner, Hubo Boatner, Jim Estes, Tim Boatner, Chad Lovern and Jace Lovern.
Jim Ricky Rives
Jim Ricky Rives, 60, passed away Monday, January 22, 2024, at Diversicare of Eupora in Eupora, Mississippi. Memorial services will be 6:00 p.m. Thursday, January 25 at Meadowview Baptist Church in Starkville, Mississippi.
Ricky was born on February 16, 1963, in Starkville, Mississippi, to Murray and Linda Page Rives. He was a member of Meadowview Baptist Church in his younger days; more recently, he was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church of Starkville, where he enjoyed teaching a Sunday school class. Ricky enjoyed the outdoors and was a logger with Rives Brothers Logging. He also enjoyed working on cars; he really enjoyed working with his hands on whatever was needed. Most of all, Ricky loved his family and enjoyed time with his grandchildren.
Ricky is survived by his three children: Matthew Rives of Starkville; Daniel Rives and wife, Nira, of Maben, Mississippi; and Sarah Rives Combs and husband, Landon, of Roxie, Mississippi. One of his greatest joys was being “Nonna and Paw Paw” to his grandchildren, Kayden Combs and Phoenix Rives. Ricky is also survived by his sister, Susan (Darren) Hurst of Starkville; two brothers, Rusty (Carolyn) Rives of Jemison, Alabama; and Randy (Nikki) Rives of Sturgis, Mississippi; and his father and mother-in-law, Philip and Pat Reynolds; as well as nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Ricky is preceded in death by his wife and his parents
Memorials in honor of Ricky may be given to Huntington’s Disease Society of American online at www.hdsa.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.
Nancy L. Vowell-Perry
Nancy’s unwavering dedication to her family served as a remarkable testament of what it means to be a loving wife, nurturing mother, doting grandmother, supportive sister, and loyal friend. She found great pleasure tending to her garden, cultivating crops, and nurturing her beloved chickens and goats. Additionally, she had a deep passion for reading, immersing herself in books whenever she could. However, above all else, her greatest joy came from cherishing moments with her family and her dear friend, Mary Jane Reed. Nancy’s compassionate nature led her to lend a helping hand to those in need, always ready to volunteer for any task. With unwavering dedication, she devoted herself to Broken Wings Ministries for more than 5 years, leaving a lasting impact. Nancy actively participated in the Salem Independent Methodist church community and found great fulfillment in serving the Lord’s purpose. She had a profound impact on the lives of those around her, and her warm and lovable nature endeared her to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. Her absence will be deeply felt, and she will always be remembered with love.
Nancy leaves behind her children, Ricky (Wanda) Vowell, Sue Vowell, Pete (Mary) Vowell, and Sunja (Dan) Douglas; along with one sister Bettye (Lee) Beevers. She will be missed by 8 grandkids, and 13 great-grandchildren. We will always cherish the memories of her comforting hugs, contagious laughter, and unwavering love that she showered upon us.
She was preceded in death by her husband and father of her children, Richard S. Vowell Sr. (1977), and her second husband Hayward Perry (2015); her parents Hubert M. Fulgham and Elizabeth H. Fulgham; 2 brothers, Hubert D. Fulgham (Buddy); and Charlie B. Fulgham.
Visitation services will be held on Friday, January 26th at Weir Presbyterian Church at 10:30 am with graveside service to follow at 11:00 am.
Memorials may be made to Broken Wings Ministries in Ackerman, MS.
Tuesday, January 23, 2024
Lois Ray Taylor
Mrs. Lois Ray Taylor, 79, passed away on Monday, January 22, 2024, at Winston Medical Center in Louisville, MS. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, January 26th, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Robin Risher and Rev. Warren Hunt officiating. Visitation will be on Thursday from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Porter Funeral Home. The interment will be in Antioch Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Lois was born on April 16, 1944, in Louisville, MS. She was a graduate of Louisville High School. She was a homemaker and a faithful member of Evergreen Baptist Church. Lois loved to cook and took her bread, fruit, and baked goods to share with local nursing home residents, whom she visited regularly. She loved working in her yard and flower beds. She baked her special breads at Christmas and shared them with her many friends and local businesses.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Ed Bouchillon; her parents, John Ovin and Lilie Catherine Shelley Livingston; and a brother, Jackie Livingston.
She is survived by two sisters, Jane Patterson of Preston, MS, and Bettie Starnes of Louisville; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers will be David Starnes, Paul Starnes, Ricky Patterson, Mike Livingston, Sam Livingston, and Cole Starnes. Honorary pallbearers will be Chance Starnes, Dillan Starnes, Adam Livingston, Brandon Livingston, Drew Snow, and Matt Snow. Memorials in Lois’s memory may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Jim Ricky Rives
Jim Ricky Rives, 60, passed away Monday, January 22, 2024, at Diversicare of Eupora in Eupora, Mississippi. Memorial services will be 6:00 p.m. Thursday, January 25 at Meadowview Baptist Church in Starkville, Mississippi.
Ricky was born on February 16, 1963, in Starkville, Mississippi, to Murray and Linda Page Rives. He was a member of Meadowview Baptist Church in his younger days; more recently, he was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church of Starkville, where he enjoyed teaching a Sunday school class. Ricky enjoyed the outdoors and was a logger with Rives Brothers Logging. He also enjoyed working on cars; he really enjoyed working with his hands on whatever was needed. Most of all, Ricky loved his family and enjoyed time with his grandchildren.
Ricky is survived by his three children: Matthew Rives of Starkville; Daniel Rives and wife, Nira, of Maben, Mississippi; and Sarah Rives Combs and husband, Landon, of Roxie, Mississippi. One of his greatest joys was being “Nonna and Paw Paw” to his grandchildren, Kayden Combs and Phoenix Rives. Ricky is also survived by his sister, Susan (Darren) Hurst of Starkville; two brothers, Rusty (Carolyn) Rives of Jemison, Alabama; and Randy (Nikki) Rives of Sturgis, Mississippi; and his father and mother-in-law, Philip and Pat Reynolds; as well as nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Ricky is preceded in death by his wife and his parents
Memorials in honor of Ricky may be given to Huntington’s Disease Society of American.
Monday, January 22, 2024
Louisa Braggs
Sunday, January 21, 2024
Barbara Faye Robbins Fulcher
Barbara was born to John Ben and Needham Moore Robbins on February 17, 1943. She was one of 10 children. Her sisters, Genevieve Walker, Bonnie Walker, Myrtis Bates, Joy Gressinger, Rebecca Williamson and her brothers, G.P. Robbins, John Robbins, Thomas “Sonny Boy” Robbins and James Robbins were all so close and loved each other so much. They created such a legacy of love for their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Barbara graduated from Nanih Waiya High School where she was a cheerleader and played basketball. She was named Homecoming Queen and Most Athletic. She married the love of her life, Carl David Fulcher, in 1962, and they quickly had 2 children and set off to work all over the world for several years before eventually settling back home in the Ellison Ridge community. Barbara worked several different jobs during her life including Spartus, TRW, and Goodin’s Grocery, but her favorite job was being Mama and Granny. She raised two children and two grandchildren as her own. When the great-grandchildren started coming along, her love just multiplied.
Granny, as she was known by so many, was happiest when she was helping someone or doing something for somebody. Her life truly gave meaning to the phrase “hands and feet of Jesus”. She opened her home to so many over the years and was happiest when her house was full. Her children’s, and later grandchildren’s, friends loved to be at her house. So many of these “kids” made the trip back to see her when she became ill and recounted so many good times with her.
Barbara was rarely seen without a grand or great-grand tagging along. She taught them to love what she loved, whether it be singing old hymns while swinging on the porch, sneaking off to a pond to fish, or watching baby goats bounce around the yard. She also passed along her joy of cooking, and most will agree this was her favorite way to show love. She commonly greeted a house guest with the statement, “What would you like for me to cook?”. One also rarely saw her sitting still, unless she had a child in her lap.
Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Carl David Fulcher, her son David Fulcher, her parents and all of nine of her brothers and sisters. Left to continue her legacy is her daughter, Michelle (Daren) Nowell, granddaughters Keisha (Justin) White and Kara Lane (Tyler) Nowell Harless, her grandsons Shawn (Krista) Fulcher and Jamie (Jeannie) McAdory and her daughter in law, Kim Hamm Fulcher. She also leaves behind her great-grandchildren, Kaydn Fussell, Cash Fulcher, Carter White, Emma Fulcher, Waylon White, Jade Chandler, JD Chandler, and Alex McAdory, as well as two sisters-in-law, Marie Robbins and Faye Robbins, and a multitude of nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Michael Wells and Mr. Ronnie Walker officiating. Visitation will be Saturday, January 27th, from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Porter Funeral Home. Interment will be in Ellison Ridge Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Luke Parkes, Jamie McAdory, Mike Etheridge, Johnny Hatcher, Pat Robbins, and Jay Stokes.
Memorials in Barbara’s memory may be made to Ellison Ridge Cemetery Fund or Good Hope Cemetery Fund.
Frank Nimrod Arterberry
Saturday, January 20, 2024
Bonnie Ferguson
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
Dorothy Jean Graham
Tommie Johns
Tommie was born on February 4, 1935, to Thomas Ozell and Mary Iva McCully Johns in Louisville, MS. He was a member of Evergreen Baptist Church and on March 9, 1957, he married the love of his life, Betty Jo Reed. He answered his nations call on two occasions and served two tours in Germany with the US Army. Tommie was a welder and worked construction by trade and worked as maintenance superintendent at GP Particle Board Plant for 29 years. He always enjoyed hunting, fishing and cooking to entertain family and friends. Anyone that came by was always welcomed to enjoy a meal at Tommie and Betty’s. On October 21, 2009, his world would be turned upside down when he lost the love of his life and his best friend. He has been looking forward to their reunion since that day.
Tommie was preceded in death by his parents, his wife and his brother, Ronnie Johns. He is survived by his daughter Renee Papalambros (Gus) and sons Glenn Johns, Joey Johns, Scottie Johns (Cindy), all of Louisville and son Danny Johns (Wanda) of Starkville. He is also survived by a sister-in-law Jill Johns of Louisville. He was also Paw Paw to 13 grandchildren and 32 great grandchildren.
Pallbearers will be Josh Johns, Zack Johns, David Mitchell, George Anderson, Rhett Anderson, and Matt Kunz. Honorary pallbearers will be Jerry Estes, Billy Davis, Phillip Johns, Brandon Garretson, Corey Long, Cole Starnes, Tyler Tanksley, Conner Dixon, and J. D. Huntley.
Memorials in Tommie’s memory may be made to Evergreen Cemetery Fund, or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.



















