Friday, April 4, 2025

Floyce Dean Adcock Shumaker

 Arrangements are incomplete at this time.



Thursday, April 3, 2025

William Brian Sims

William Brian Sims went to be with His Lord and Savior at the Olive Branch Methodist Hospital on April 2, 2025. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Friday, April 4th, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Rob Faulk and Rev. Trent Jaudon officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 1:00 P.M. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will be in Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Noxapater. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Brian Sims was born Nov. 9, 1976, as the second son of Ray Sims and Carol Sue Young Sims of Louisville, MS. Brian grew up loving the country life around cattle, farming, hunting, and fishing. He loved the outdoors. Brian always enjoyed the simple things in life: faith, family and friends. Brian loved all sports, but especially football, and he excelled as a running back for Winston Academy then continued to play for two years at East Central Community College.

Brian was a Winston Academy graduate, receiving many honors including Mr. Winston Academy. He then graduated from ECCC later attending Delta State University earning a B.S. in general sciences. Brian turned his love for football into a career with coaching teams at Newton Academy, Winston Academy, and Starkville Academy. When not on the field, Brian also enjoyed teaching in the classroom. He also enjoyed another career with Farm Bureau Insurance and Alfa Insurance. He loved people and always loved to make them laugh. He was the center of fellowship with his great sense of humor and storytelling antics. On May 18, 2002, he married the love of his life Laura Hope Faulk Sims. They were blessed with four beautiful children: Julianna Kate (19), Jonah Ray (18), Jillian Faith (16), and Judah Robert Sims (11). Brian's greatest love besides his family was his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was an active member of the South Louisville Baptist Church where he served his Lord Jesus faithfully as a deacon for 20 years and a minister of music for 10 years. Playing guitar and singing in the church and singing with his family was a great joy for him. His sense of humor and love for his neighbors will be greatly missed.

William Brian Sims is survived by his wife of almost 23 years, Laura Hope Faulk Sims, four precious children Julianna, Jonah, Jillian, Judah, his loving parents Carol Sue Young Sims and Ray Sims, and loving brothers Alan Sims (Grace Ann) all of Louisville, MS, and Randall Sims (Jennifer) of Columbus, grandmother Margaret Ann Carter Young of Louisville, and his aunts and uncles, John Albert (Kathy) Young, Gloria (Gary) Miller, and Brenda Sims, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Brian was preceded in death by his great heroes his grandparents: Cleo Strum Sims and Seth Lavern Sims and his “JJ” Albert Harlan Young; his uncle, Robert Sims, and aunt, Betty Winstead.

Serving as pallbearers will be Mich McAdory, Lance Eichelberger, Josh Hatcher, Mack Stubbs, Jason Whatley, John Albert Young, Alan  Sims, and Randall Sims. 

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Wren Alan Thomas, Sr.

Funeral service for Mr. Wren Alan Thomas, Sr. will be held at 2 PM Friday, April 4, 2025, at John E. Stephens Chapel with Rev. Cody Fedrick, Rev. Glynn Barker, and Randy Thomas officiating. Interment will be in Oak Grove Baptist Cemetery in Noxapater. Visitation will be held from 10 AM-2 PM Friday, April 4, 2025, at John E. Stephens Chapel.

Mr. Thomas, 60, passed away on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at North MS Medical Center in Tupelo, MS. He was a U.S. Army Veteran and a former business owner of TeleCom Communications. Mr. Thomas was a member of Oak Grove Baptist Church, Smallwood Hunting Club, and Gunline Shooting Club. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed competitive shooting and tennis.

He is preceded in death by his step-mom, Marilyn Thomas.

Survivors include daughter, Chelsea (Cody) Fedrick of Philadelphia; son, Wren Alan Thomas, Jr. of Noxapater; parents, J.W. Thomas of Noxapater, June Hurst of Hattiesburg; sister, Lynn (Bobby) Martin; brothers, John A. (Denita) Thomas of Noxapater, Bubba Jones and Casey Jones of Hattiesburg, Freddy (Amy) Thomas of Noxapater; a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. A friend to ALL.

Pallbearers are Chase Thomas, Brady Thomas, Sam Gully, James Gully, Cody Coward, Tyler Coward, Daniel Thomas, Pierce Bastien, T.J. Thomas and Bradley Thomas.

Monday, March 31, 2025

Danny Leroy Collier, Jr.

Danny Leroy Collier, Jr., 62, of Gautier, MS., formerly of Louisville, MS., passed on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 in Pascagoula, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, April 5, 2025 at 2 p.m., from Mount Calvary M. B. Church, 1240 Mount Calvary Road, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m. from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Johnny Roy Barron

Mr. Johnny Roy Barron, age 84, of New Orleans, Louisiana, passed away on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at home surrounded by family. Born on October 20, 1940, he was the son of the late John Therrell Barron and Nannie Louise Coleman Barron. In addition to his parents, Johnny was preceded in death by his sister, Judy Barron Taylor.

Born and raised in Ackerman, Mississippi, he graduated from Ackerman High School in 1958. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in business from Mississippi State University in 1962, where he was a member of Sigma Chi fraternity and ROTC.

On April 12, 1963, he married Elizabeth Anne Clark of Louisville, Mississippi. His career as an auditor for various government agencies—including NASA, the Department of Energy, and U.S. Customs— took them across the Southeast, with homes in Huntsville, Alabama; Nashville, Tennessee; and Louisville, Kentucky. Eventually, he and his family settled in New Orleans, Louisiana, where they made their home.

Johnny dedicated 37 years of service to the United States Army Reserve, beginning his military career in 1963 and retiring in 2000. Throughout his tenure, he progressed through the highly competitive and selective ranks to attain the prestigious designation of Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5), a rank achieved by only a select few due to its high standards. His consistent track record of exceptional leadership and extensive expertise earned him numerous accolades and recognitions. He was highly regarded for his outstanding production, integrity, and invaluable contributions to missions and their success. His dedication and service left a lasting impact on those he served alongside and the broader mission of the Army Reserve.

After retiring from U.S. Customs in 2004, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren during their early years. He valued community and volunteered for Habitat for Humanity and numerous projects through the Methodist church. He and Anne also shared a love for travel, exploring destinations both across the country and abroad whenever they had the opportunity.

Johnny was a man who believed in the value of hard work and carried a strong work ethic in all he did. Dependable and responsible, he approached every task—whether in his career, his home, or his community—with unwavering dedication. He took pride in a job well done and always followed through on his commitments. His work was not just about earning a living; it was a reflection of his character, built on perseverance and integrity. Even in his later years, he remained steadfast in his responsibilities. His life was a testament to the belief that true success comes from showing up every day.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Anne, and their three children: Beth, Chris (and wife Christine), and John as well as their five grandchildren: Nicole, Emmett, Clark, Ashley, and Hailey. He also leaves many other family members and friends who will sadly miss him.

A graveside service and burial will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, April 6, Memorial Park Cemetery in Louisville, Mississippi, with Rev. Mike Childs officiating.

Mary Theresa Vowell

Mary Theresa Vowell, 77, passed away on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at her home in Louisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will be Thursday, April 3 at 2 p.m. in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Taylor Yarbrough officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 12:30 p.m. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will immediately follow the service in Louisville Memorial Cemetery.

Mary was born September 27, 1947, to Marvin Lee and Earnestine Garrard King in Louisville. A woman of deep faith, Mary was an active member of West End Baptist Church. There she found community and strength while serving as the choir director for 20 years.

Mary spent over 40 years as a dedicated floral designer, a career that highlighted her exceptional talent and eye for beauty. Her work brought joy and inspiration to countless people, reflecting her warm and kind-hearted nature. Those who knew her cherished her for her unwavering faithfulness and the gentle kindness she shared with everyone she met.

Mary is survived by her daughter, Mary Anne Johnson and husband, Berry; and her son, Ronnie “Buzzy” Johns all of Louisville. One of her greatest joys was being “Boo Boo” to her five grandchildren: Leighanne (Doug) King, Shey Johnson, Casey (Midori) Johnson, Michael Johns, and Barley Johns (Kayla); as well as her six great-grandchildren: Bryce King, Bentley King, Talan King, Brodie Tate, Luca Johnson, and Noah Johnson. Mary is also survived by her brother, Neal King (Sandra) and sister, Ruby Collins; in addition to her nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends.

Mary was predeceased by her beloved husband, Ricky Vowell, who remained close to her heart throughout her life. Together, they shared many cherished memories and built a life filled with love and mutual respect. She was also preceded in death by her granddaughter, Kristi Johnson; her parents; and three brothers, Jerry King, Wayne King, and Benny King.

Serving as pallbearers are Doug King, Byrce King, Bentley King, Brodie Tate, Casey Johnson, and Barry Vowell. Memorials in honor of Mary may be given to the Alzheimer’s Association online at alz.org.

In these difficult times, the family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Gentiva Hospice team, including Melissa, Ashley, Stephanie, Lynn, Allison, and caregivers Maria, Dorothy, and Lestine, for their compassionate care and support over the last year and a half of Mary's illness. Their kindness and dedication made a significant difference in Mary's final days, providing comfort to her and her loved ones.

Mary Theresa Vowell will be dearly missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of love and beauty will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched.

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.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mary Theresa Vowell please visit our Sympathy Store.




Thursday, March 27, 2025

Gary O'Neal Hill

Mr. Gary O’Neal Hill, 72, passed away on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at his home in Louisville. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Saturday, March 29th, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Charles Rook officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will be in Good Hope Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Gary was born November 15, 1952, in Ruleville, MS, to Albert O’Neal and Mary Ellen Hill. He was a graduate of Louisville High School and attended East Central Community College. He was a retired business owner, having installed satellites for many years. He also worked for TRW and Taylor Machine Works. He was a member of Crystal Ridge Baptist Church. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Sandra Neal.

Gary is survived by his sisters, Sheila Fleming and Sharon (Pete) Slater; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Jarred Fleming, Jordan Fleming, John Slater, Kirk Slater, Christopher Dean, Brad Patterson, Scotty Fleming, and Austin Oswalt. Honorary pallbearers will be Stanley Eaves, Steve Eaves, Ted Eaves, and Paul Randle Eaves.

Monroe Davis

Monroe Davis, 86, of Louisville, MS, passed on Friday, March 21, 2025 at the Baptist Medical Center, Carthage, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 11 a.m., from New Zion M. B. Church, 48 New Zion Road, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Joel Lamont Glass

 Joel Lamont Glass, 49, of Noxapater, MS., passed on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, in Louisiana. Funeral Services will be Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 2 p.m., from Mount Vernon Missionary Baptist Church, 200 Culberson Road, Noxapater, MS. Visitation will be Friday, March 28, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., from Beck Funeral Home, Louisville. Burial will be in the Mount Vernon M.B. Church Cemetery in Noxapater, MS. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville is in charge of arrangements.

Joel was preceded in eternal life by his mother, Phyllisine Glass; sister, Kimberly Glass Moore; maternal grandparents, Leoza Culberson and Ina Mae Culberson Johnson; paternal grandparents, Burt Glass and Corrina Glass; surrogate siblings; Leon and Debra Young, Bobby, Vanessa, Willis and Billy Harrington and a special friend, Nathan Hughes.

Joel leaves to cherish fond memories of his earthly journey; father, Dr. Joe B. (Essie) Glass; wife, Barbara Glass; children; Lamontrez Johnson, Morgan, City, LA., Dontrenque Johnson, Houma, LA., Galen Hogan and Bryan Glass, both of Port Gibson, MS: Stepchildren; Tyler Griffin, Noxapater, MS, Brittany Griffin, Louisville, MS., Robert Hardin, Tulsa, OK; niece, Breanna (Brianna) Glass; brother-in-law, Grover Moore, Hattiesburg, MS; special siblings, Barbara Culberson, Noxapater, MS., Georgia (Clifton) Eichelberger, Baton Rouge, LA, Shannon Young, Baton Rouge, LA; stepsister, Alnetha Jackson (James) Thornton, Davenport, IA; Aunts, Erma Smith, Sacramento, CA, Sybil Williams, Janette Madison (Stanley), Karen (Edward) Kirk, Noxapater, MS., Linda Billups, Louisville, MS; Uncles, Ronald Haynes, Kosciusko, MS, Sherman Glass, Jackson, MS., Bush (Carla) White, Scooba, MS., Tommy Glass, Noxapater, MS., Michael Glass, Tuscaloosa, AL., Keith Culberson, Louisville, MS and grandchildren, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Lestine Hall

Lestine Hall, 87, of Louisville, MS., passed on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at the Baptist Memorial Hospital, Columbus, MS. Funeral Services will be Friday, March 28, 2025, at 2 p.m., from Bethel M. B. Church, 5559 Crystal Ridge Road, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Beck Funeral Home Louisville. Burial will be in the Bethel M.B. Church Cemetery in Louisville, MS. Beck Funeral Home Louisville is in charge of arrangements.
Mrs. Hall was born to her parents, Jack Johnson and Leatha Turner in Kemper County, Mississippi on May 22, 1937.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, children; Anthony "Tony" Davis and Karen Davis; and sister, Rosie Hickman.

She is survived by her children: Jackie Hathorn (Lawrence), Dwight Davis (Elizabeth), Angela Coleman (David), Darrien Davis (Latonya), Teresa Hopkins (Farris), Tyrone Davis (Sharon), Paulette Dailey (Keith), Crystal Davis and Eric Davis (Tiffon); a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother, John Lee Johnson, a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and family.

Monday, March 24, 2025

Jewel Gregory Burrage

Mrs. Jewel Gregory Burrage, 100, passed away on Friday, March 21, 2025, at Baptist Golden Triangle Hospital in Columbus, MS. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 P.M. on Tuesday, March 25th, at Harmony Baptist Church, with Rev. Jerry Lundy officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday from 11:00 A.M. until service time at the church. Interment will be in Harmony Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Jewel was born March 1, 1925 in Louisville, MS, to Maybelle and James Gregory. She was a homemaker, and a member of Harmony Baptist Church

She was preceded in death by her husband, Prentiss Burrage; her parents; and three brothers, Charles Gregory, Olyn Gregory, and Edgar Gregory.

She is survived by three sons, William E. “Billy” (Corliss) Burrage, Jimmy (Glenda) Burrage, and Greg (JoAnne) Burrage; 5 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild.

Memorials in Jewel’s memory may be made to Harmony Baptist Church.

Harold “Wibby” Young


Harold “Wibby” Young, 79, passed away Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Baptist Medical Center—Golden Triangle in Columbus, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 25, 2025, in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Doug Shank officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 3 p.m. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will immediately follow the service in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery in Noxapater, Mississippi.

Wibby was born May 18, 1945, to William Edgar Young and Ruby Lee Kemp Young in Kemper County, Mississippi. He graduated from Noxapater High School in 1964. Wibby worked as a Repairman with the Kansas City Railroad for more than 35 years. He loved watching Westerns and could take almost anything apart and put it right back together again. He believed that one man’s trash is another man’s treasure, and he spent his retirement years tinkering with the many treasures he collected at his beloved barn. At the barn, he would spend his days tending to his cows and using his skills as a welder to refurbish antiques into beautiful pieces for his family.

Wibby is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Betty Young of Noxapater; and his children: Brian Young (Natalie) of the Nanih Waiya Community; Pam Young Mills (Brian) also of Noxapater; and Andy Young (Kasey) of Ackerman. One of his greatest joys was being “Wibby” to his grandchildren: Emily Mills, Mary Grace Mills, Brianna Young, Carson Young, Joy Paige Eaves, Case Young, and Cate Young. He is also survived by his sister, Peggy Winstead (Barnard); in addition to his loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Wibby was preceded in death by his grandson, J. D. Eaves; parents; brother, Carl Young; sister, Patricia Lewis; father and mother-in-law, A. B. and Hazel Goodin.

Serving as pallbearers are Carson Young, Case Young, Hunter Johnson, Chunky Thomas, Chris Johnson, Gary Kelly, Tony Delgado, Brady Thomas, Chase Thomas, and Will Baskin. Memorials in honor of Wibby may be given to Make-A-Wish Mississippi online at wish.org/ms.

Services are under the direction of 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.masseyfuneralhome.net.

Friday, March 21, 2025

Lee Audrey Summerour

Lee Audrey Summerour, 86 of Louisville, MS., passed on Monday, March 17, 2025 at the Winston County Medical Center, Louisville, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 2 p.m., from Mount Moriah M. B. Church, 308 South MLK Drive, Louisville, MS. Burial will be in the Louisville Memorial Cemetery, 121 Armstrong St., Louisville, MS. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Walter Earnest Lucas

Mr. Walter Earnest Lucas, 93, passed away on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at his home in Jackson, MS. A graveside service and interment will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 22, at Memorial Park Cemetery in Louisville, MS, with Mr. Bobby Baker officiating. Porter Funeral Home of Louisville is in charge of arrangements.

Walter was born in Sunflower, MS, on February 21, 1932. He grew up in Shaw and Cleveland, MS, where he met the love of his life, Shirley Price. They lived in Clarksdale, MS, for 25 years where he and Shirley raised their children.

He was a U. S. Army veteran, having served during the Korean War. He was stationed at Ft. Jackson in Columbia, SC. He also served in the MS Army National Guard. While living in Clarksdale, he owned an insurance agency for many years. Additionally, he had a cattle farm in Oakland, MS, where he loved spending time with his family and riding horses.

Walter enjoyed photography, woodworking, fishing, hunting, gardening, genealogy, and tinkering with computers. He was a member of Clarksdale Baptist Church where he served as a deacon. He served as President of the Clarksdale Baptist School Board for 8 years.

In 1983, he and Shirley moved to Jackson, MS, where he worked with his brother at Lucas Tire Company. He was a member of First Baptist Church and enjoyed the fellowship of his Sunday School classes. In later years, he loved being a part of a Bible study group at Christ United Jackson. He also enjoyed regular breakfast visits with several of his “guy friends” where they reminisced and bragged on their children and grandchildren.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents, Katherine Connor Lucas and Calvin Jarnigan Lucas, Sr., his wife of 73 years, Shirley Price Lucas, his son, Walter (Lisa) Lucas, Jr., and a brother, Calvin (Sue) Lucas, Jr.

He is survived by his children, Jim Lucas, Mark (Donna) Lucas, and Penne (Bob) Huff; his grandchildren, Leigh (Michael) Monroe, Cooper (Rachel) Huff, Luke (Ollie) Ainsworth, Tucker (Wynn) Lucas, Austin Lucas, Hayden Lucas, Justin (Alana) Lucas, and Marissa (Neil) Usry, and twelve great-grandchildren. His grandchildren will serve as pallbearers.

The family would like to thank his caregivers, Emma Pough and Bettye Mallard, and the entire Accent Care Hospice team for the excellent care they provided.

James Norrell

Mr. James Norrell, 65, of Louisville, MS passed at Winston County Medical Center in Louisville, MS on March 16, 2025. Visitation will be on Friday, March 28, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Taylor Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral services will be on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 1:00 pm at Still Valley Missionary Baptist Church. Interment will take place at Mt. Cannie Missionary Baptist Church. Taylor’s Funeral Home of Louisville is entrusted with the arrangements.


Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Kevin Leverne Hayes

Kevin Leverne Hayes, 62, passed away on March 16, 2025.Kevin was born on August 20, 1962, in Trenton, NJ, to Rutherford "Ford" Hayes and Alice Olivia Gray. He spent the majority of his career as a Commercial Truck Operator and later found great success in freelance Technicial Support, supporting various regions both locally and across the country. When not on the job, Kevin was a gifted saxophonist, whose music brought joy to everyone who heard it. Kevin served the United States through the Navy.

He is survived by his wife, Mae Lean Hayes, his children, Kayla Hayes-Georgewill, Alexander Hayes, Jennifer Hayes, Stephanie Hayes and his grandchildren, Karson Hayes, Kassidy Hayes, Tristan Griffin, Christopher Curtis, Jr., Isabel Georgewill, Ezekiel Georgewill and Elijah Hayes. Kevin is also survived by his siblings- Sharon Holmes, Pryor Bradsbery, Belinda Bradsbery, Alfreda Bradsbery, Darrell Bradsbery, Shawn Gray, Michael Hayes, Merdis Hayes and Charles Cotton. He is survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins who loved him dearly. Kevin is preceded in death by his parents, Rutherford Hayes and Alice Gray.

The family will hold a private viewing observing Kevin's expressed wishes and appreciates your love and support through this moment. Psalm 34:18 -"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

Arrangements by Beck Funeral Home of Louisville, MS.

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Carolyn Caperton Mills

Carolyn Caperton Mills, 95, passed away Monday, March 17, 2025, at her home in Louisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Thursday, March 20 at Center Ridge Church with Bro. Mike Dowd and Bro. Ricky Bane officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service at the church from 9 a.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in Center Ridge Cemetery.

Carolyn was born June 15, 1929, in the little town of Noxapater, Mississippi, to George Herbert and Theresia Elena Talbert Caperton. Growing up in the town of Noxapater, she experienced the usual experiences of small-town children like roller-skating on the sidewalks, walking the railroad tracks, swimming in a swimming hole beside the tracks, playing baseball in a vacant lot with the neighborhood kids, and reading all the books from the WPA Library. She started school in Noxapater at the age of six where she skipped first grade and moved on to second. Her first elected school position was as president of the SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). At the age of eight she joined Mt. Carmel Baptist Church. At the age of twelve, she and her family moved to Louisville to be closer to Fair's Mill where her daddy was a millwright. She and her family joined First Baptist Church in Louisville. She spent the last two months of her seventh-grade year at Louisville school. In the eighth grade she began taking an extra subject each year which in turn enabled her to finish high school in three years, graduating at the age of 16 years.

During her high school years, she was a member of the Debate Club and The Drama Club. As a senior she met and fell in love with her future husband, Archie Lee Mills. Graduating with honors from Louisville High School with honors in May of 1946, she was awarded a work scholarship to Huntington College in Montgomery, Alabama. But instead of going on to college, she married Archie in November and moved with him to the Center Ridge community in the western part of Winston County. She joined Center Ridge Methodist Church and has been a dedicated faithful member ever since. After joining the church, she immediately began teaching the adult Sunday School class. Throughout the years, she also taught children classes and led MYF. She was part of a vocal ensemble at Center Ridge for many years. Her previous duties have also included altar chairman, communion steward and trustee. She has held many county positions within the Methodist church.

At the age of 25 to help support her family of then three children, she went to work at Louisville Pants Factory. She worked there until she was expecting her fourth child. In addition to taking care of the house and children, she helped with all the farm work, raising cows, hogs and chickens, growing and picking cotton and corn, baling hay, milking the milk cow, and raising vegetables for the dinner table. To help supplement their family's income, she also sold Avon products door to door in the neighborhood. Carolyn was among the first to welcome anyone who moved to the community with cookies and an invitation to church.

Upon the entrance of her sixth and last child to the first grade, she began her 24-year career with the school food service and driving a school bus. Her last ten years at the Louisville High School cafeteria she served as manager where she always made sure every child had food. She was awarded the outstanding manger title in District VI in 1986 and was District Director of Mississippi School Food Service in 1989 and 1990. During her summer vacations, she worked as a cook at Tri County Nursing Home.

All three of her girls were Brownies and she served as a Brownie leader. Organizing the Ford 4-H Club, with all of her children being in the club and of which she was a leader for 15 years, she was instrumental in many worthwhile projects being started and completed. Introduced to the American Heart Association by Mineola Melton she served for over 20 years, first as a rural chairman and later as the county wide chairman. She was a member of the Louisville Business and Professional Women's Organization (BPW) for 25 years at which she served as President twice and District Director twice. She was chosen as the 1986 BPW Woman of the Year. After retiring from the school, she joined the Winston County Garden Club and has held many offices. She was a member of the Winston Medical Auxiliary and volunteered weekly in the hospital gift shop. In 2002, she was crowned Queen of the Charity Ball by the Junior Auxiliary of Louisville.

In 2005, she became a Master Gardener and participated in the planting and maintaining of the Butterfly Garden at the Mollie Estes/J.W. Young Park in Noxapater. Carolyn was a member of the Friends of Legion State Park and helped with the fishing rodeo that is held there annually. She was also a member of the Winston Genealogy Society and a member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy where she has held many positions. Since the early 1950's, Carolyn voluntarily wrote her weekly column “Let’s Be Neighbors” for the Winston County Journal.

Carolyn is survived by three daughters: Teresa Ingram (Michael), Carol Clark, and Julie Mills (Billy Catt); and three sons: David Mills (Martha), Clinton Mills (Carol), and Danny Mills (Gidget). She also raised her brother, Larry Caperton, as her own child after the passing of their mother when he was only 12 years old. One of her greatest joys was being “Mammaw” to her grandchildren: Dallas Mills (Kim), Mollie Mills Sheppard (Shep), Jonathan Mills, Drew Gordon, Josh Mills (Jessica), Elena Mills Gilbert (Chris), Landon Mills, and Austin Catt (Daisy); as well as a special niece and nephew whom she considered her grandchildren, Shelley Carr and Thad Caperton. She is also survived by her 16 great-grandchildren: Lindsey Mills, Morgan Mills, Hannah Mills, Rylee Mills, Colton Mills, Bodie Mills, Brayden Gilbert, Mason Gilbert, Aria Gordon, Gabriella Phillips, Tyler Sheppard, Dax Sheppard, Travis Sheppard, Sophie Carr, Kate Francis Carr, and Parker Catt. Carolyn was preceded in death by husband of more than 53 years, Archie Lee Mills; three infant children; grandson, Justin Lane Mills; great-granddaughter, Aubrie Sheppard; her parents; and two sisters, Peggy Stokes and Charlene Baggett.

Serving as pallbearers are Dallas Mills, Josh Mills, Jonathan Mills, Landon Mills, Danny Mills, Drew Gordon, Austin Catt and Billy Catt. Honorary pallbearers are Brayden Gilbert, Colton Mills, Mason Gilbert, Bodie Mills, Tyler Sheppard, Dax Sheppard, and Travis Sheppard. Memorials in honor of Carolyn may be given to Center Ridge Cemetery Fund, 1584 Spay Road, McCool, MS 39108 or to the American Heart Association online at heart.org.





Monday, March 17, 2025

Mary Cynthia “Cindy” Box Malone

Mary Cynthia “Cindy” Box Malone, 68, passed away Saturday, March 15, 2025, at her home in Sturgis, Mississippi. Graveside services and interment will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 19 in McClelland Cemetery on Craig Springs Road with David Chaney officiating. 

Cindy was born March 1, 1957, to Charles and Sue Perrigin Box in Maben, Mississippi. Family was very important to Cindy and she very much enjoyed spending time with her family. She was married to her best friend for 49 years. She also enjoyed shopping for antiques. Cindy retired as a soil testing technician with the Mississippi State Extension Service. 

Cindy is survived by her daughter, Mary Nicole “Nikki” Malone, of Sturgis, Mississippi. She is also survived by her sister, Jo Charlice McKenzie and her sister-in-law, Mary Jean Box; in addition to her loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Cindy was preceded in death by the love of her life, Michael “Red” Malone; her parents; sister, Candace Box; sister-in-law, Janice Malone Petty; brothers, Michael H. “Mike” Box and Charles J. “Jeff” Box, Jr.; and brother-in-law, Darrell McKenzie.

Serving as pallbearers are Michael Box, Chris McBride, Josh McBride, Mike Malone, Robert Patrick, and Waya Patrick. Memorials in honor of Cindy may be given to Oktibbeha County Humane Society, P. O. Box 297, Starkville, MS 39760.

The family kindly requests that no food or visitors be sent at this time. They appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult time.




Sunday, March 16, 2025

Shirley Price Lucas

Mrs. Shirley Price Lucas, 90, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 14, 2025, surrounded by her family at her home in Jackson, MS. Graveside services and interment will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, March 22nd, at Memorial Park Cemetery, with Mr. Bobby Baker officiating. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Shirley was born in Tutwiler, MS, on November 10, 1934. She grew up in Cleveland, MS, where she met the love of her life, Walter E. Lucas, Sr. They were married for 73 years. They lived in Clarksdale for 25 years, where she and Walter raised their children, before moving to Jackson, MS, in 1983.

She was very active in her church home. In Clarksdale, she started their senior citizens’ monthly luncheons and prepared meals for them. She enjoyed playing the piano for children’s programs and singing in the choir. She taught Bible school and was involved in numerous church activities.

She treasured the years she was able to be a stay-at-home mom. After moving to Jackson in 1983, she enjoyed a 17 year career as the office manager for Brian, Pendleton, Swats, & McAlister. She loved playing bridge, gardening, cooking, sewing, and most importantly, spending time with her family.

She was a member of First Baptist Church of Jackson, where she was the designer of the floral committee for ten years. She enjoyed visiting shut-ins and brightening their day. She loved the Lord and her faith in Christ was obvious to everyone that knew her.

She was preceded in death by a son, Walter Lucas, Jr.; and her parents, Winston Vernon and Lilian Ray Price.

Shirley is survived by her husband, Walter E. Lucas, Sr.; her children, Jim Lucas, Mark (Donna) Lucas, and Penne (Bob) Huff; her grandchildren, Leigh (Michael) Monroe, Cooper (Rachel) Huff, Luke (Ollie) Ainsworth, Tucker (Wynn) Lucas, Austin Lucas, Hayden Lucas, Justin (Alana) Lucas, and Marissa (Neil) Lucas; a sister, Patsy Tindle; and twelve great grandchildren.

Her grandchildren will serve as pallbearers.

The family would like to thank her caregivers, Emma Pough and Bettye Mallard, and the entire Accent Care Hospice team for the excellent care they provided.

Tanya Latrice Smith


Tanya Latrice Smith, 58 of Louisville, MS., passed on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at the Merit Health Wesley Hospital, 5001 Hardy Street, Hattiesburg, MS. Funeral service will be Monday, March 17, 2025 at 11 a.m., from Mount Sinai M. B. Church, MS - 397, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Sunday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangement