Walter Earl Smith

 Walter Earl Smith, 76, of Starkville, MS., formerly of Louisville, MS., passed on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at his home. Funeral Service will be Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 2 p.m., at Union Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, 142 Union Chapel Road, Louisville, MS  39339. Pastor Kaiser W. Jones, Jr., will deliver the Eulogy.  Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Union Chapel Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Walter was born November 2, 1949 to the parents of Sam Smith and Beulah Triplett in Winston County Mississippi.

Walter was preceded in death  by his first wife, Annie Cooper-Smith;   his son, Randall Smith; parents, Sam and Beulah Triplett; siblings, Sammy Lee Smith, Willie M. Smith, Herbert Smith and Martha Smith.

Walter is survived by his loving wife, Gloria Edwards-Smith; children, Walter O. Smith (Kalista), Sherri Tolbert (Joseph), Terry Smith and Nicole Triplett; stepchildren, Christie Durand (Kenneth), Delwin Cooper and Jeremy Clay; siblings, Hazel "Mary Joyce" Hall, Charlene Frazier and Bobby Smith; a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and family.

Shirley Lane Robertson

 Shirley Lane Robertson, age 83, of Vernon, Alabama, passed away on December 3, 2025. She was born on October 26, 1942, in Louisville, Mississippi. Visitation will be Friday, December 5 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Nebo Church in Sulligent, Alabama. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Sunday, December 7 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Terry McAdams officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 1 p.m. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will immediately follow the service in Louisville Memorial Cemetery.

Shirley was a proud graduate of Louisville High School and East Central Community College. She went on to earn her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Mississippi State University. A devoted school teacher, she spent 25 years teaching at Louisville Elementary and Middle School before continuing her career at Redwater Indian School for another 12 years. After retirement, she found joy in traveling with family and friends and staying active in her community.

On February 15 1964, she married the love of her life, Charles “Curley” Robertson, with whom she shared 40 years of a life filled with love and laughter and the usual bumps in the road and she loved him through it all. Shirley was a dedicated member of Mt. Nebo Church in Vernon, where she treasured fellowship, worship, and her church family. She was also a proud, longtime member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).

Shirley had many hobbies that reflected her generous and joyful spirit. She loved traveling, reading on her Kindle, collecting pig figurines, participating in community groups, and attending Southern Gospel concerts. She was known for her quick wit, warm humor, and the thoughtful, faith-filled sayings she loved to share with others. Some of her favorites were:

• “Kindness is free.”

• “Rub your mad spot and get glad.”

• “I have too many flaws to be perfect, but I have too many blessings to be ungrateful.”

• “Find joy in every day, not because life is always good, but because God is.”

Her life’s guiding scripture was 2 Corinthians 5:7: “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband Charles “Curley” Robertson; her parents William and Emma Lane Robuck; and her sister Billie Lee Coleman.

She is survived by her children Chuck (Michele) Robertson of Sturgis, MS; Mark Robertson (Sherry) of Vernon, AL; and Beverlee (Kenny) Hollis of Vernon, AL. She leaves behind her beloved grandchildren Courtney Lane Robertson, Kendall Evan (Tyler) Yates, Cooper (Jeuel) Robertson, Tara (Doug) Blair, Paige Watson, Grey Robertson, Jackson Hollis, and Christian Robertson; and her great-grandchildren Emma Lane Robertson, Carter Blair, and Beau Blair. She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews and cousins whom she deeply loved and cherished.

One of Shirley’s running jokes in the family was telling each child, grandchild, and in-law that they were her favorite. No matter who she was talking to, she would grin and say, “You’re my favorite,” adding each of their names. All of the children claimed the title proudly. But beneath the joke was the truth that made it special — she treated everyone equally, loved everyone fully, and never wanted anyone to feel left out or less important. She lived by the principle that kindness matters and that life is too short to worry about the small things.

Shirley treasured her lifelong friends from her years of teaching, as well as her cherished friend Carol Stephens and the entire Stephens family, whom she considered her own. Her Mt. Nebo church family meant the world to her, and she dearly loved being part of the “Nebo Ramblers,” where she enjoyed day trips filled with laughter, stories, and fellowship.

She adored her many cousins and shared a special daily bond with her wonderful Aunt Jean (“Aunt Coot”), who recently celebrated her 100th birthday.

Shirley lived her life in service to others. She gave to the weary, encouraged the discouraged, and uplifted anyone who crossed her path. She taught that dreams were worth working for, that God should always come first, and that we should remain humble and let go of the things we cannot control.

Her favorite song, “Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone),” was the one she wished to have sung at her funeral. She wanted everyone to hear its beauty and truly understand its message.

Her passing was unexpected following a recent surgery — something none of us could have prepared for — and our hearts are devastated by this loss. Shirley lived every day as though it were her last, full of purpose, joy, and faith. She will be deeply missed, and we will forever cherish the memories, the stories, and the lessons she leaves behind.

Shirley — Momma, Mamaw Shirley — was the very definition of a life lived with intention: to uplift others, to encourage them, and to remind them always to be their best.

Serving as pallbearers are Cooper Robertson, Grey Robertson, Jackson Hollis, Christian Robertson, Tyler Yates, Doug Blair, Carter Blair, and George Coleman.

Bettie Jean Johnson McMillon

 Mrs. Bettie Jean Johnson McMillon, 95, passed away on Monday, December 1, 2025, at Carthage Senior Care in Carthage, MS. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 P.M. on Friday, December 5th, at Noxapater Baptist Church, with Rev. Corbin Jenkins officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the church. Interment will be in Mt. Carmel Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Bettie was born September 9, 1930, in Noxapater, MS, to Cynthia and Herbert Johnson. She was graduate of Noxapater High School. Bettie joined Union Ridge Baptist Church on March 17, 1946, and made a profession of faith. She was not baptized until July 21, 1946, as she was baptized in a pond and they had to wait for the water to warm up. She was sitter for the elderly for many years. Bettie loved her flowers and working in her flower gardens. She was a member of Noxapater Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her brothers Billy Keith Johnson and Randall Johnson.

She is survived by her daughters, Patty Kemp of Kosciusko, Peggy (Mac) Moorman of Grenada, a son, Kenneth (Mary Ruth) McMillon of Carthage; a sister-in-law, Kathy Johnson of Noxapater; her grandchildren, Eddie (Carol) Moorman, Honey (David) Simmons, Kenny (Mary Kathryn) McMillon, Kristina McMillon, Kimberly McMillon, Tommy (Lori) Wilson, Tammy Franks, and Buddy McClelland; her great grandchildren, Morgan (Sarah Grace) Moorman, Sophie Moorman, Holly (Peyton) Allbritton, Mallory (Josh) Ables, Victoria Menhal, Cade McMillon, Finley McMillon, Trey (Rebekah) Wilson, Josh Wilson, Joana (Derek) Roos, Allison (Chris) Myers, Phillip (Lindsay) Franks, and Surnaya McClelland; and her great great grandchildren, Aleigh Klarie Ables, Fisher Ables, Charlie Grace Moorman, Addison Roos, Luke Roos, Mason Roos, and Matthew Myers.

Pallbearers will be Derek Roos, Chris Myers, Phillip Franks, Buddy McClelland, Josh Ables, and Kenny McMillon. Honorary pallbearer will be Tommy Wilson.

John Steven “Steve” Higginbotham

John Steven “Steve” Higginbotham aged 66, of Slidell, LA passed away on November 25, 2025 after a short illness.

Steve was born in Junction City, KS on March 11,1959. As the son of an Army veteran, his childhood was spent traveling the world. Steve’s first trip to Germany happened when he was just 2. He made two more trips to Germany in the years before he was 18. He visited Italy twice and saw Rome, Venice, and Pompeii.

Steve always strived for academic excellence. He was awarded the Rensselaer Medal from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute for superlative achievement in math and science as a junior in high school. Steve went on to study aerospace engineering at Georgia Tech where he met his future wife, Cynthia. He then graduated from Mississippi State with a degree in Computer Engineering.

Steve proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy. As an Electrician's Mate Second Class (Nuclear), he served aboard the submarines USS Kamehameha SSBN 642 and the USS Dallas SSN 700. He received his Navy submarine dolphin pin and his SSBN Deterrent Patrol pin while serving.

Steve’s career after the Navy involved several companies involved in pre-GPS navigation systems. He travelled to Kuwait during his development and coding of a tracking related real-time system for the Kuwaiti government. Later in his career, he worked for Textron Marine & Land Services on developing software for controlling the engines on the Navy’s hovercraft landing vehicle. He also tested the programs during the Navy’s sea trials.

Steve’s early travels influenced him his entire life. From Mammoth Cave National Park to Yosemite, he delighted in the beauty of the country. He visited Land Between the Lakes in Tennessee and Kentucky quite often.

As an Elder at Atonement Lutheran Church in Metairie, LA, Steve carried his beliefs with him always.

Steve is survived by his wife Cynthia and daughter Rebecca Rahne. He has two brothers, Ernest Jeffrey (Donna) and Russ Michael (Patt). His father, Ernest Clinton, also survives him. He is preceded in death by his mother, Vera Rochelle Higginbotham.

The funeral service will be held at Poplar Flat Baptist Church, in Louisville, MS, on Saturday, December 6 at 2 pm; led by Reverend Michael Childs. Visitation hours will be 1-2 pm at the church.

Forest Gene Hil

Forest Gene Hill, age 72, was born on September 4, 1953, to Jimmy and Rita Smith Hill and passed away peacefully at his Ellison Ridge home on November 30, 2025, in Louisville, Mississippi.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 6, at Massey Funeral Home in Louisville. Visitation will take place the same day from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow immediately at Sardis Church Cemetery in Winston County. Gene lived a life marked by curiosity, hard work, deep roots, and a profound appreciation for the community around him.

He spent many years with Louis Dreyfus Corporation, embracing the life of a corporate nomad and forming lifelong friendships on the road. His entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to South Carolina, where he built a business alongside his friend and partner, Lonnie Atkins.

A man of many passions, Gene cared deeply about environmental conservation and was endlessly fascinated by invention and engineering. He was a devoted baseball fan, cheering faithfully for his Mississippi State Bulldogs and the Baltimore Orioles. He loved hunting, never passed up a plate of Southern biscuits, and relished a good steak or Southern-style seafood.

Gene also cared deeply for the Ellison Ridge community. A proud member of Ellison Ridge Baptist Church, he worked hard to return home to the family land he loved so dearly and was known as a loyal friend to all who crossed his path.

In recent years, Gene was often spotted roaming the family land in his side-by-side, accompanied by his beloved dog and constant companion, Pookie, who held a special place in his heart.

Gene will be remembered for his warm spirit, his adventurous mind, and the simple joys he never took for granted.

Serving as pallbearers Stanley Eaves, M. L. McGee, Stewart “Catfish” Clay, Derek McKim, Alan Harper, and Ryan Penny. Honorary pallbearers are Albert “Shug” Glass and Lonnie Atkins.

Forest Gene is survived by his three children: daughter Marcelle Deal and husband Allen Deal of Chapin, SC; daughter Genevieve (Genna/Ginny) Hill Evashevski and husband William Evashevski of Good Hart, MI; and son Christopher Hill (with Chelsea Derrick) of Eastover, SC. He is also survived by his siblings, Pamela Jane Hill of Traverse City, MI, and Kenneth Miles Hill (Sonia Lahmer) of Wilmington, DE; his grandchildren, Ryan Penny of West Columbia, SC; Adrienne (Ward) Burrus and Madden Deal of Chapin, SC; as well as his nephew, Alan Harper of Chicago, IL; and great-grandchild Bailyn Grace Burrus. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Tammy Cobb Hill, and by his parents, Jimmy and Rita Hill.

Our family would like to offer our greatest appreciation to Derek McKim, who has cared for him so dutifully and compassionately in his last year of life. Memorials in honor of Forest Gene may be given to the Sardis Cemetery Fund, c/o Glenda Thomas, 215 Thomas Road, Louisville, MS 39339.

Virginia “Ginger” Catherine Higginbotham

 Virginia “Ginger” Catherine Higginbotham, 61, passed away on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at her home in the Craig Springs Community, surrounded by her family. Funeral services will be Monday, December 1 at 2:30 p.m. in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel in Louisville, Mississippi, with Bro. Melvin Mordecai officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 1:00 p.m. until service time at Massey Funeral Home. Interment will immediately follow the service in Craig Springs Cemetery in Oktibbeha County.

Ginger was born August 4, 1964, to Edna Ruth Cole Higginbotham in Ruleville, Mississippi. She enjoyed relaxing, whether she was camping or porch sitting and drinking coffee. Most of all, she dearly loved her family, especially her grandchildren, and she enjoyed spending time with them.

Ginger is survived by her son, Robert Humphrey and wife, Lexie, of Wink, Texas; her partner, Jerry Odom; and stepson, Jeremy Odom both of Bradley, Mississippi. One of her greatest joys was being “Gigi” to her four grandchildren: Lily Humphrey, Emily Humphrey, Freya Humphrey, and T. J. Humphrey. She is also survived by her sister, Billie Annette Sanchez (Renee); and her brother, Toby Higginbotham all of Chicago, Illinois; as well as her cousins, Debra Odom (Paul), Chip Cole, J. R. Cole, Gaye Williamson, and LaBreska Jackson; in addition to her nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Ginger was preceded in death by her husband, Arley Tincher; her mother, Edna Ruth Higginbotham; her grandparents, James Ellis Cole and Cora Estelle Blansett Cole; her brother, Henry Higginbotham; and her sister, Rita Simon.

Serving as pallbearers are Robert Humphrey, Cole Vaughn, Chip Cole, Junior Odom, and Paul Odom.

Sandra Lynn Johnson

 Sandra Lynn Johnson, 83, passed away on Friday, November 28, 2025, at her home in Louisville, Mississippi, with her loving family at her side. Funeral services will be Monday, December 1 at 12 p.m. in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel in Louisville with Bro. Jerry Lundy officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 10:00 a.m. until service time at Massey Funeral Home. Interment will immediately follow the service in Harmony Cemetery.

Sandra was born January 3, 1942, to J. D. and Hazel Stokes Holton in Winston County, Mississippi. She was a member of Harmony Baptist Church. Sandra enjoyed hunting and fishing, and she took great pride in tending both her flower beds and vegetable garden. Known as an excellent cook, she loved preparing meals for her family. Above all, she dearly loved her family and cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren.

Sandra is survived by her daughter, Susan Bane of Pensacola Beach, Florida; and sons: Joe Johnson and wife, Tanya; and John Bane all of Louisville. One of her greatest joys was being “Maw” to her four grandchildren: Wil Bane, Jarrett Bane, Sarah Trosper, and Morgan Trosper. She is also survived by her sister, Kathy Holdiness; and two sisters-in-law, Betty McMillan and Kathy Johnson, in addition to her nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Sandra was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Keith Johnson; her parents, J. D. and Hazel Stokes Holton; and her brother, Marlon Clay.

Serving as pallbearers are Wil Bane, Jarrett Bane, Kenny McMillan, David Parker, Tim Parker, and Bobby Paten.

John H. White

John H. White, 87, passed away on Friday, November 28, 2025, at Baptist Memorial Hospital—Golden Triangle in Columbus, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Sunday, November 30 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Mark Mayo officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service at the funeral home from 2 p.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in Murphy Creek Cemetery.

John was born in Winston County, Mississippi, on February 13, 1938, to Henry Lee and Hazel “Tiny” Crowell White. He was a faithful member of Murphy Creek Baptist Church. He spent his career welding at various locations before retiring and becoming fondly known throughout the community as the “Peanut Man” for his famous boiled peanuts. A talented woodworker, he crafted rocking chairs, porch swings, cedar chests, and toy cars and trucks. He was a member of the local Masonic Lodge and took great pleasure in keeping his yard immaculate on his zero-turn mower. Above all, he dearly loved his grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with them. He proudly answered the call of his country by serving in the United States Navy.

John is survived by his wife of 66 years, Louise White of Louisville; his son, Greg White (Cindy) of Pensacola, Florida; and his daughter, Mary Katherine Johnson (Mike) also of Louisville. One of his greatest joys was being “Johnny” to his four grandchildren: Brandon White (Jennifer), Rachael Greer, (Cody), Daniel Johnson, and David Johnson; as well as two great-daughters, Lynleigh White and Olivia White. He also leaves behind his brother, Gerald White (Mickey); in addition to his loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Lee and “Tiny” White, and two sisters, Mary Evelyn White and Hazel White Ward.

Serving as pallbearers are Brandon White, Daniel Johnson, Clint Chadwick, Garvin Whitten, Scott Whitten, and Greg White. 

Mark Valiant

 Mark Valiant, 57, of Brookhaven, MS, formerly of Louisville, MS., passed on Monday, November 24, 2025 at the King's Daughters Medical Center, Brookhaven, MS. A memorial service will be conducted at a later date by the Family. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Curtis Monroe Quinn

Curtis Monroe Quinn, 74, passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at his home in Louisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Friday, November 28 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Tommy Jones officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in New Hope Cemetery.

Curtis was born November 29, 1950, in Winston County, Mississippi, to Curtis Quinn and Mary Lou Sullivan. He was a devoted Ole Miss fan and an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. Curtis was a gifted cook; he enjoyed cooking for others, especially his many friends. Also, let us not forget his close, personal relationship with President Donald Trump. Above all, he cherished the time he spent supporting and following his grandchildren in their various activities.

Curtis is survived by his daughters, Shannon Quinn of Louisville; and Bridget Hoover (Joe) of Flowood, Mississippi. One of his greatest joys was being “PaPaw” to his five grandchildren: Jenna Jones, Chaney Tisdale, Seth Arney, Jace Arney, and Kinley Jo Hoover; as well as his four great-grandchildren: Hudson Cole Arney, Layia Tisdale, Easton Jones, and Dutton Jones. Curtis is also survived by his sister, Katrina Estes Hill; in addition to his nephews, other family members, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis Quinn and Mary Lou Sullivan; his brother, Mike Estes; and his nephew, Chad Estes.

Serving as pallbearers are Seth Arney, Jace Arney, Danny Heard, Chris Moody, Wayne Moody, and Daniel Robertson. 

Linda Carol Hisaw Kelley

 Linda Carol Hisaw Kelley, 66, passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at her home in Louisville, Mississippi, with her loving family at her side. Funeral services will be Saturday, November 22 at 11 a.m. at Hight Assembly of God Church in Noxapater with Bro. Tom Bentley and Bro. Kenneth Hall officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the church. Interment will immediately follow the service in Hight Cemetery with Bro. Steve Graves officiating.

Linda was born October 31, 1959, to Jessie and Elizabeth Foster Hisaw in Texas. She loved spending time with her family, especially her granddaughters. Linda also enjoyed playing computer games, singing, and reading her Bible.

Linda is survived by her husband, Jimmy Kelley; and three children: Jonathan Kelley, Jeffery Kelley, and Rachel McDaniel (Wayne) all of Louisville. One of her greatest joys was being “MawMaw” to her two granddaughters: Christy McDaniel and Rosanna McDaniel. She is also survived by her sisters, Angela Hisaw and Patricia Hisaw, and her brother, Robert Hisaw, in addition to her nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Jessie and Elizabeth Hisaw; and two brothers, Clifford Hisaw and Joseph Hisaw.

Ethel Lee Young

Ethel Lee Young, 90, of Louisville, MS., passed on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025 at her home. Funeral Service will be Monday, Nov. 24, 2025 at 1 p.m., from Center Hill Church of God In Christ, Hwy. 15 South, Louisville, MS. Elder Clifton T. Haynes, Pastor, will deliver the Eulogy. Visitation will be Sunday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Center Hill Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Ethel was born June 14, 1935 to the parents of Lee Howard Eichelberger and Laura Elleby Eichelberger in Winston County Mississippi.

Ethel was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmie Young, Jr.; son, Jimmy Lee Young; parents, Lee Howard and Laura Eichelberger; siblings, Bobby Dean Eichelberger, Lee Howard Eichelberger, Jr., David Eichelberger and Eldora Jones.

Ethel is survived her children, Shirley Weeden, Geraldine Johnson, Demetrice Cheatham (Kedrick), Tonino Young (Barbara), Joyce Hoskins (Robert) and Terrion Young (Shavonda) ; 40 grandchildren, 37 great grandchildren and 6 great great grandchildren; siblings, Ollie Mae Houston, Doris Taylor (Nathan), Edna Hargett, Willie Thermon Eichelberger, Otis Eichelberger (Laura Dean), Donel Eichelberger and James Robert "Tom" Eichelberger; along with nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and family.

Vickie Jones Snow

Vickie Jones Snow, 66, passed away on November 17, 2025, at her home in Louisville, MS. Graveside services and interment will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Friday, November 21st at Murphy Creek Cemetery, with Rev. Mark Mayo officiating. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Vickie was born September 22, 1959, in Louisville, MS, to Pearl Cutts and Odie Jefferson Jones. She was employed in insurance sales for many years and was a member of Murphy Creek Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Adrienne Burchfield; and a sister, Judy J. Fulcher.

She is survived by her husband, Wayne Snow; two daughters, Kadee Snow and Jonnie Snow; her son, Austin Snow; two sisters, Dianne Jones (Brian) Corley of Florida, and Sandra J. (Don) Sharpe of Louisiana; seven grandchildren, two great grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Lillie Mae Cooper

 Lillie Mae Cooper, 76, of Louisville, Mississippi, passed on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at the Parkway Health & Rehab., Canton, Mississippi. Funeral Service will be Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 2 p.m., from Lonely Valley C. M. E. Church, 12776 Brooksville Road, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Antioch Cemetery. Beck Funeral  Home in charge of arrangements.

Lillie was born July 9, 1949 to the parents of J.C. Jackson and Sarah Anderson Jackson in Winston County Mississippi

Lillie was a faithful  member of the Lonely Valley C. M. E. Church, where she served in various ministries of the church.

Lillie was preceded in death by her husband, Billy George Cooper; parents, J. C. Jackson and Sarah Jackson; siblings, Christine Porter, Jessie Jackson, Johnny Jackson, M. C. Jackson, Annie Mae Jackson and David Jackson.

Lillie is survived by her children, Ronald Jackson (Andrea) and Latasha Cooper; step daughter, Carol Simmons (Ron); 9 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; siblings, Joe Jackson (Letita), Ishia Jackson-Gipson (Jerry), Sylvester Jackson and  Tom Jackson (Janet); nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and church family.

Noble Stanley

Noble Stanley, 79, passed away on Monday, November 17, 2025, at his home in Carthage, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, November 19 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Mr. Billy Sanders 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 Liberty Cemetery in Noxapater, Mississippi.

Noble was born May 19, 1946, to Noel A. Stanley and Frances Turner Stanley. He was a member of Liberty Baptist Church. Noble enjoyed serving his community as an officer and friend.

Noble is survived by his wife, Dianne Stanley of Carthage; and his children: Loriane Sullivan of Edinburg, Mississippi; Brian Sullivan (Tabatha) of Philadelphia, Mississippi; and Kenneth Sullivan (Tonya) of Carthage. He is also survived by his four grandchildren: Zack Vowell, Kellcey Sullivan, Ashlyn Gray, and Maddie Gray; as well as his niece, Debbie Allen (David) and nephew, Stan Parkes (Sandi); in addition to other family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Noel and Frances Stanley; his brother, James Stanley; and his sister, Vera Stanley Parkes.

Serving as pallbearers Ken Sullivan, Brian Sullivan, and Jason Sullivan.

Bobby Wade Green

Bobby Wade Green, 66, passed away on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at his home in Preston, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Monday, November 17 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Mark Thompson officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service at the funeral home from 12 p.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in Goodin Cemetery in Preston.
Bobby was born May 1, 1959, in Louisville, Mississippi, to Marshman and Ethel Stokes Green. He was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and farming. Bobby loved socializing with his many friends and relaxing at home watching television.

Bobby is survived by his children: Kristy Yarbrough (Thad) of Preston, Jerad Green of Decaturville, Tennessee, Cara Jean Green of Preston, Bobbie Kaye Green also of Preston, Jacob Green of Abilene, Texas, and James Danis Floydd Green of Preston. He also enjoyed being “PawPaw Bobby” to his 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Bobby is also survived by two sisters, Catherine Page (Warren) of Clinton, Mississippi, and Margaret McDonald of Preston; in addition to many nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marshman and Ethel Stokes Green; three brothers, Willie Green, Harold Green, and Paul Green; and two grandchildren, Charlie Cross and Alexandria Lewis.

Serving as pallbearers are Wayne Green, Jeremy Green, Jacob Green, Marcus Bobo, Chris Parker, and Brandon Warren.

Donnie Ray Welch

Donnie Ray Welch, 73, of Cleveland, OH., formerly of Louisville, MS., passed on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at his home. Funeral Service will be Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 11 a.m., from Beck Funeral Home. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m. from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Union Chapel Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Vickie R. Shields-Bryant

 Vickie R. Shields-Bryant, 60, of Floresville, Texas, passed away on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at the Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital, San Antonio, Texas. A Virtual Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. A viewing will take place on Friday, November 14, 2025 beginning at 10:00 a.m. from the funeral home. Burial will be in the Mount Pleasant #2 Church Cemetery, Noxapater, Mississippi. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Vickie was born on August 1, 1965, to the late Perry Howard Shields, Sr., and Mary Lee Crawford-Shields. She proudly served her country as a member of the United States Army and carried that same spirit of dedication and resilience throughout her life. 

Vickie is survived by her seven childen; Victoria Bryant-Mazyck, Veronica Bryant, Willie Bryant, Jr. (Veronika), Vanessa Threat (Darryl), Wykeem Bryant(Jazzmin), Wesley Bryant, and Wenston Bryant. She was a devoted mother and grandmother who's greatest joy came from her family. She leaves behind sixteen beloved grandchildren; Johnny Bryant, the late Tarif Mazyck, Harmony Mazyck and Melody Mazyck (Children of Victoria); Terra, Trinity, Willie III and Waylan (children of Willie Jr.); Daniya, Dalila, and Danise (children of Vanessa); Wykeem Jr.,Leilani, Wyzen and Liana (Children of Wykeem); and Wesley Jr. (child of Wesley).

She is also survived by her brothers, Perry Shields, Jr. (Rachel), Edward Shields (Yolanda) and Joshua Shields (Giselle); five nieces, three nephews and a host of cousins, aunts uncles and other relatives who will cherish her memory. In addition, her parents raised Sharon Foster and Jane Forbes, who held a special place in Vickie's heart and life.

Vickie will always be remembered for her strength, compassion, humor, and the warmth she shared with everyone around her. Her legacy  of love, laughter and faith will continue to live on through her children, grandchildren and all who were bless to know her.

Sam Lonzo Paten

 Sam Lonzo Paten, 75, of Louisville, MS., passed on Sunday, November 09, 2025 at his home. Funeral Service will be Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 11 a.m., from Pilgrim Rest M. B. Church, 1501 Middleton Road, Louisville, MS. Pastor Peter James Neely, Sr., will deliver the Eulogy. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Louisville Memorial Cemetery. 

Sam was born February 13, 1950 to the parents of Lonnie Paten and Daisey Mae McDuffy Paten in Winston County Mississippi.

Sam is survived by his loving wife, Rosie Mae Shell Paten; children, Linda Pollock (Lefonzo), Rose Annette Chancellor (Lamar), Sammy Paten (Leigh) and Angie Carter (Ferguson); 12 Grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; siblings, Bobby Paten, Harvey Paten (Ida Mae), Mack Willie Paten, Linda Davis (Tony), Daisey Lee Colson, Elizabeth Triplett and Louise Tucker; nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and family. 

Alex Lee “Bud” Brown, Sr.

Alex Lee “Bud” Brown, Sr., 89, passed away on Monday, November 10, 2025, at his home in Louisville, Mississippi, surrounded by his loving family. Graveside services and interment will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, November 12 at Whitehall Cemetery with Bro. Trent Jaudon officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service at the funeral home from 12 p.m. until 1:30 p.m.

Bud was born November 14, 1935, to William Puckett Brown, Sr. and Leota Hopper Brown. He enjoyed playing golf, bird hunting, and spending time outdoors. Bud retired from Southern Natural Gas after many years of service. He served as Justice Court Judge for 44 years with dedication and integrity. Above all, he loved his family and enjoyed following his grandchildren and cheering them on in their many activities.

Bud is survived by his son, Lee Brown (Brittany) of Louisville. One of his greatest joys was being “PawPaw” to his four grandchildren: Tripp Brown (Logan), Makenzie Stevens (Lane), Ella Brown, and Cayden Brown. He is also survived by his four great-grandchildren: Sadie Brown, Alex Brown, Cohen Stevens, and Georgia Leigh Stevens; in addition to his loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sara Dempsey Brown; his parents, William Puckett Brown, Sr., Arch Hammack and Leota Hopper Brown Hammack; and his brother, Billy Brown.

Serving as pallbearers are Lee Brown, Tripp Brown, Cayden Brown, Lane Stevens, Mark Dempsey, Dwight Dempsey, and Jason Dempsey. Memorials in honor of Bud may be given to Whitehall Cemetery Fund, c/o Garvin Whitten, 10954 Highway 14 West, Louisville, MS 39339.