Burbon Junior Wilson

 Mr. Burbon Junior Wilson, 72, passed away on Monday, August 24, 2026, at his home in Winston County, surrounded by his family. Funeral services will be held at 10 A.M. on Thursday, August 27th, at South Louisville Baptist Church, with Rev. Trent Jaudon officiating. Visitation will be held at South Louisville Baptist Church on Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. Interment will be in Rural Hill Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Junior was born December 11, 1953, in Louisville, MS, to Arbie Bennett and Ruby Lucille Wilson. He was a graduate of Louisville High School. He had a strong work ethic and worked for many years for A & B Electric and Edwards Electric. While not working, he loved to hunt, fish, and ride his motorcycle. He also loved being outdoors and working in his garden. More than anything, he enjoyed his family and spending time with them. He was a faithful member of South Louisville Baptist Church.He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Kenneth Nelson Wilson.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley Ann Melton Wilson; his daughter, Cynthia Ann (Justin) Robertson of Dekalb, MS; a step-daughter, Kristy (Billy) Brewer of Leesville, LA; step-sons, Sean (Candy) Swindle of Columbus, MS, Marshall (Kristen) Swindle of Louisville, and Jason (Glynda) Cummins of Vicksburg, MS; his sister, Jo Woodward (Oti Galban) Tallahassee, FL; his brothers, Robert Bennett (Rita) Wilson of Louisville, Billy Ray (Connie – dec.) Wilson of Gulfport, MS, James Woodrow (Marie) Wilson of Louisville, and Ricky Dean (Jerry) Wilson of Louisville, MS; grandchildren, Clint (Brianna) Quinn and Dillon Quinn, step-grandchildren, Josey Tatum (Nick) Wright, Haley Cummins, Khloe Brewer, and Karley Brewer; great grandchildren, Scarlett Quinn and Remi Quinn; and step-great grandchild, Haidyn Lynn.

Pallbearers will be Scotty Wilson, Clint Quinn, Dillon Quinn, Jason Cummins, Randy Young, and David Wilson. Honorary pallbearer will be Sam Reed.

The family would like to give a special thanks to his hospice nurse, Melissa Flake, who took such good care of him in his final days, and also to a very special family friend, Melissa Reed, who was so good to him for many years.

Walter Lee Miller

 Walter Lee Miller, 69, of Louisville, MS., passed on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at his Sister's home in Louisville, MS. Funeral services will be Friday, August 28, 2026 at 11 a.m., at Union Chapel M. B. Church, 142 Union Chapel Road, Louisville, MS. 39339. Visitation will be Thursday, August 27, 2026 from 4 until 6 p.m. at the Funeral Home.  Burial will be in the Union Chapel Church Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville is in charge of arrangements.

Walter was born September 18, 1956 to the parents of Frank Lee Austin and Jessie Mae Miller Austin, in Winston County Mississippi.

Walter was preceded in death by his father, Frank Lee Austin; daughter, Santana Goss; siblings, Bruce Austin and Alvin Miller.

Walter is survived by his; children, Marlon Goss (Cassandra), Cornelius Davis, Cory Miller and Courtney Miller; 11 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; mother, Jessie Mae Austin; siblings, Sammie Miller (Sherry), Michael Austin (Greenella), Frank Austin, and Lillie Miller (Carey); a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and family.

Anion Burch “Tony” Shearer

 Anion Burch “Tony” Shearer, 97, entered his eternal rest in Eufaula, Oklahoma, surrounded by the deep love of his family. After a courageous and faithful battle with Alzheimer’s disease, Papa met his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ face-to-face in Heaven.

Born on September 3, 1928, Burch lived a life defined by an industrious work ethic, and an unmatched devotion to his family. From an early age, he learned the value of hard work while providing for his family in many venues until finally retiring from the Georgia Pacific Chemical plant in Louisville, Mississippi. He was born in Mashulaville, Mississippi, where he lived until he was 12. During the depression, his family moved west to Stockton, California. He married his devoted wife in Las Vegas, Nevada, and settled down in Stockton until 1971 when he returned his family to his home state of Mississippi. His favorite song was “Dixieland”, because it reminded him that someday he would return to his beloved state.

Beyond his work, Burch attended the First Pentecostal Church in Noxapater, Mississippi. He was a man of creative talents which included photography for which he had a degree obtained in California. Woodworking was a favorite pastime where many people in Winston County have a piece of his talent. He was an avid reader and gardener. One of his sayings was, “I’m a jack-of-all-trades, but the master of none”, but he excelled at everything he put his hand to. He had a wonderful sense of humor, which he carried through his illness. He traveled across the United States with his wife on many trips to visit family left behind in Stockton and Coalinga, California. He served in the United States Army during Word War II in the Azores and Italy in the post-war reconstruction effort for eight years. While serving, he worked as a photographer, lab technician, and firefighter. During his service, both of his knees were crushed in an accident. He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, American Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal and Army occupational Medal. He passed on to his sons, Walter, who served in the Air Force; and Tony, who served in the Army Special Forces, a deep love of serving their country.

God blessed Burch with 68 beautiful years of marriage to his devoted wife, Patricia Mapel Shearer. Together they made their home in Noxapater on the land he cherished and were blessed with three beloved children.

His memory will be forever cherished by his wife; their three children, Schella Stone (John) of Noxapater, Mississippi; Walt Shearer (Lisa) of Eufaula, Oklahoma; and Tony Shearer (Tammy); his brother-in-law Mike Mapel (Donna) of California; his sister-in-law Joann Shearer of California and his wonderful grandchildren, Keith Higginbotham (Shannon) of Noxapater, Caleb Shearer, Jacob Shearer (Marilla) , Weatherbee (Jacob) of Newton, Mississippi; Emily Shearer of Florida, Corey Nelson (Lindsey) of California, and Jake Nelson of California. He also leaves behind five precious great-grandchildren: Levi, Lily, Daniel, Ava, and Avery.

Burch was welcomed into Heaven by his parents, Thomas Barrett Shearer and Tinnie Avery Vantassel; his sisters Jessie Knutson (Ted), Elizabeth Conner (Glenn), Jewel Hammond (Kenny) and brothers Walter Shearer, Joe Shearer, and Tommy Shearer and his beloved granddaughter, Amanda Shearer who he will lie beside at the Sunrise Memorial Cemetery in Noxapater.

Visitation and funeral chapel service will be held at Massey Funeral Home on N. Columbus Avenue in Louisville, Mississippi, with Pastors Tim Flake and William Shepheard officiating. A graveside service will follow immediately after the chapel service at Sunrise Memorial Cemetery on Highway 15 in Noxapater. Visitation will be Saturday, August 29 from 10 a.m. until service time. Immediately following in the chapel at Massey Funeral Home at 11 a.m. the funeral will commence.

Billy Darnell Clay

 Billy Darnell Clay, 44, of Tuscaloosa, AL., formerly of Louisville, MS., passed on Thursday, August 13, 2026 at his home. Funeral service will be Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 11 a.m., at Still Valley M. B. Church, 560 Armstrong Street, Louisville, MS., 39339. Visitation will be day of the service from 9 a.m., until the funeral hour. Burial will be in the Little Member Church Cemetery, 33690 MS Hwy. 14 East, Macon, MS 39341. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Billy Darnell Clay known as "Billy Boy" was born March 10, 1982 in Louisville, MS. to Rev. Billy Joe Clay and the Late Dorothy Jane Clay.Billy graduated from Noxubee County High School in May 2000 in Macon, MS.

After graduation, Billy moved to Tuscaloosa, AL. He was employed full time at Peco Foods for 25 years. He was also employed part time at TJ Maxx for 3 years in Tuscaloosa, AL.,until his death.

Billy confessed at an early age. He was a member of Friendship M. B. Church, in Tuscaloosa, AL., under the Leadership of Pastor Bruce W. Henderson, Sr.

Billy was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy J. Clay, grandparents; (Ephraim and Katie Clay) and (Steven T. and Annie Mae Hammock).

Billy leaves his father, Rev. Billy Joe (Joyce) Clay; 4 sisters, Youlanda Clay, Michelle (Johnny) Brandy, Dante C. King, and Melissa Clay; nephew, Brandon Clay, nieces, Sabriya Clay, Brittany Clay, Johne' Brandy, Johniya Brandy, Ciarra King and Maya (Kylan) Johnson, along with many beloved relatives and friends.

Albert Donald Triplett

 Mr. Albert Donald Triplett, 78, passed away on Saturday, August 22, at Baptist-Anderson Regional Medical Center in Meridian, MS. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, August 25th, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Charles Rook and Rev. David Keen officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the funeral home.   Interment will be in Perkinsville Cemetery. 

Donald was born January 16, 1948, in Macon, MS. He was a graduate of Nanih Waiya High School and attended East Central Community College. He worked for many years with South Central Bell and retired as a facilities technician with Bellsouth. He proudly served in the Mississippi National Guard, and was a faithful member of Bethel Baptist Church. Donald loved hunting, fishing, and Alabama football.

He was preceded in death by his parents, A. T. and Martha Triplett; his sister and her husband, Elaine and Jim Torgerson; and a brother, Billy Butler.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Billie Triplett; two daughters, Donna (Greg) Thomas of Louisville, and Magan Triplett Allen and Shea Allen of Meridian, MS; his grandchildren, Jennifer Wright, Cayson Miles, Landon Miles, Dylan Allen, Colby Allen, and Isabella Allen; and two great grandchildren, Harper and Sophie Wright.

Pallbearers will be Tyler Wright, Cayson Miles, Landon Miles, Colby Allen, Dylan Allen, and Rocky Miles. Honorary pallbearers will be Paul Eaves, Johnny Johnson, Allen Barrett, Shea Allen, and Johnny Triplett.

Mable Holdiness

Mable Holdiness, age 84, passed away on Monday, August 24, 2026, at her home in Maben, Mississippi. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, August 25, at Massey Funeral Home in Louisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, August 26 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Tyler Hunt officiating. Interment will immediately follow the service in Good Hope Cemetery. Mable was born February 9, 1942, to Earle and Ella Dorman Chesney in Union, Mississippi. She was a member of Good Hope Baptist Church. Mable enjoyed being outside; she loved gardening and yardwork, especially working in her flowers. Mable was a caregiver to her husband and her family. She also loved her cats; but most of all, she dearly loved her family.

Mable is survived by four sons: Kent (Debbie) Holdiness of Louisville; Barney (Pam) Holdiness of Noxapater, Mississippi; Roy (Jackie) Holdiness of Maben; and Pete (Pam) Holdiness of Ackerman, Mississippi. One of her greatest joys was being “Mamaw” to her 10 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters: Faye Henley, Maye Ursey, and Birdie McElhenney; her brothers-in-law, J. W. Holdiness and Kellis Holdiness; in addition to a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Barney J. Holdiness; son, Michael W. Holdiness; her parents; and her brother, Purvis Chesney.

Serving as pallbearers are Hailey Moody, Cory Jordan, Kyle Holdiness, Kaden Holdiness, Seth Prewitt, and Thomas Holder. Memorials in honor of Mable may be given to Good Hope Cemetery Fund, c/o Robin Fulton, 2751 E. Winston Road, Louisville, MS 39339.

 

Randy Keith Pauley, Jr.

 Randy Keith Pauley, Jr., 52, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at his home in McCool, Mississippi. A service to celebrate Randy’s life will be held at a later date.

Randy was born to Randy Keith Pauley, Sr. and Sandy Woolsey Boatner on July 12, 1974, in West Monroe, Louisiana. Randy was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed turkey hunting and brim fishing. He was a musician and was always ready to play his guitar. Most of all, he loved his family. He enjoyed reminiscing about his Louisiana family and he also loved playing frisbee with his grandson, Carter; as well as pushing his granddaughter, Khloe, on the rope swing that he had made for her.

Randy is survived by two sons, Daniel Pauley of McCool and Stephen Pauley of Philadelphia, Mississippi; and his dad, Randy Keith Pauley, Sr. of West Monroe, Louisiana. One of his greatest joys was being “PawPaw Randy” to his two grandchildren, Carter Pauley and Khloe Pauley. He is also survived by his siblings: Amy Caudill (Bro. Gary), Angela Boatner, and Robert Boatner; in addition to his nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sandy and Randall Boatner.

Rodney Lawrence McClure

Rodney Lawrence McClure, 88, passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at his home in Louisville, Mississippi, with his loving family around him. Funeral services will be 12 p.m. Friday, August 21 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Doug Wise officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 11:00 a.m. until service time at Massey Funeral Home in Louisville. Interment will immediately follow the service in Poplar Flat Cemetery.
Rodney was born June 16, 1938, in Ackerman, Mississippi, to L. M. and Nealie Estelle “Sis” McClure. He was a member of Poplar Flat Baptist Church. Early in his working career, Rodney worked as a car salesman in Jackson, Mississippi. He continued to buy and sell cars periodically and was known to sell a car out from under his girls! Rodney later retired from Southern Natural Gas. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing. He loved his dog, Sally, and often teased the girls that Sally was their sister! Rodney also enjoyed playing cards, shooting pool, and finding a good deal, whether at a yard sale or Dirt Cheap. Most of all, Rodney dearly loved his family. He enjoyed spending time with them and especially enjoyed riding around with his grandchildren, making memories they will always treasure.

Rodney is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Nell Cockrell McClure; and his daughters: Sheila (Robbye) McMillan and Natalie (Jay) Willis all of Louisville; and Shannon (David) Ruffin of Starkville, Mississippi. One of his greatest joys was being “DeeDee” to his grandchildren: Erik McMillan (Rikki), Connor Romedy (Penny), Chelsea Atchison (Ben), Marly McMillan, Collin Willis, Evan (Riley) Willis, Harris Ruffin, and Hadley Ruffin; as well as his seven great-grandchildren: Jack Romedy, Karley Walters, Manny Romedy, Rodney Romedy, Paige Atchison, Liah Atchison, and Andie Willis. He is also survived by his aunt, Margie Murphy; his sister, Ann McCool; and his brother, Jimmy Ralph McClure (Linda); in addition to his nieces, nephews, extended family members, and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by an infant son, Rodney Lawrence McClure, Jr.; his parents; and his brother-in-law, Russell McCool.

Serving as pallbearers are Connor Romedy, Collin Willis, Evan Willis, Harris Ruffin, Ben Atchison, Will Bane, and John Dempsey. Memorials in honor of Rodney may be given to Poplar Flat Cemetery Fund, P. O. Box 684, Louisville, MS 39339.

Our family of would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice for the compassionate care and support given to us during such a difficult time. A very special thank you goes to his nurses, Melissa and Shaina; his aides, Jerri and Lily; and his caregiver, Samantha, for the kindness, patience, and gentle care they provided. Each of you made a difficult journey a little easier.

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.

Rowdy Mitchell Ray

Our sweet boy, Rowdy Mitchell Ray, was born sleeping with the angels at 20 weeks on August 13, 2026, at Merit Health River Oaks in Flowood, Mississippi. A private family graveside service will be held in the future.

Rowdy is survived by his loving mommy and daddy, Callista Woods Ray and Gavin Ray; his big sister, Riylah Page Ray; his grandparents, Jeremy Woods, Crisseta Woods all of Philadelphia, and Charles Ray of Louisville, Mississippi; his great-grandmothers, Kim Rushing also of Philadelphia; and Jean Tullos of Union, Mississippi; and his great-grandfathers, Dennis “DenDen” Duran also of Louisville; and Toney Martinez also of Union. Rowdy also leaves behind his loving aunts and uncles, Landon Woods (Ashlynn Wammack), Katelyn (Ethan) Porter, Makayla Ray (Keeton Stokes); and Tonio Martinez; along with numerous cousins and many other family members and friends who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Erica Rushing; great-grandmother, Mylinda “MeMe” Duran; and great-grandfather, Mitchell Rushing.

Though Rowdy never drew breath in this world, he brought an overwhelming amount of love and joy to our hearts from the very moment we knew he exited. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Felix Lee Watkins

Felix Lee Watkins, 85, passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at Baptist Anderson Regional Medical Center in Meridian, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Thursday, August 20 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Wesley Donald and Bro. Tim Smith officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 10:00 a.m. until service time at Massey Funeral Home in Louisville, Mississippi. Interment will immediately follow the service in Campground Cemetery.

Felix was born to William Hut and Stella Stanley Watkins on January 21, 1941, in Louisville, Mississippi. He was a member of Liberty Baptist Church. Felix was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed fishing, hunting; and his chickens, who were actually pets to him. A talented woodworker, he made many heirloom pieces of furniture for his family. He retired from Well Lamont Glove Factory in Philadelphia, Mississippi. Most of all, he dearly loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them.

Felix is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Georgia Lang Watkins of Noxapater; and his daughter, Kim Watkins (Shawn Newman) all of Noxapater. One of his greatest joys was being “PawPaw” to his granddaughter, Natasha Roberson (Isaac Triplett); his great-granddaughters, Kalei Bridges (Javan Riggins) and Gracin Bridges; and his great-great-grandson, Zahir Riggins. He is also survived by his sister, Evalina Huey; and his brother, Ricky Watkins. He was preceded in death by his parents; and five sisters: Marie Stevenson (Louis), Tommie Rogers, Gay Hatcher, Minnie Reed, and Peggy Childs; and his brother, David Watkins.

Serving as pallbearers are Shawn Newman, Isaac Triplett, Steeler Shannon, Scott Shannon, Jeff Stanley, and Steve Jones. Memorials in honor of Felix may be given to Campground Cemetery Fund, c/o Becky Waddell, 3080 Young Crossing Road, Louisville, MS 39339.

Nancy Pilgrim

Nancy Pilgrim, 82, born on November 18, 1943, to Grover and Zelma Bennett in Attala County, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loving family.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, August 19, at 12 p.m. in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel in Louisville, Mississippi. Visitation will be the day of the service from 10 a.m. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will immediately follow the service in Parkway Cemetery in Kosciusko, Mississippi.

Nancy was a devoted wife, mother and sister. She was known as Maw-Maw to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Born and raised in Zama, Mississippi, she was a graduate of Zama High School in 1961, where she was Salutatorian. She was married to her husband for 68 years to Fred Pilgrim, and they traveled the United States while he worked on the pipeline. She then worked for over 25 years at First Baptist daycare, known as Mrs. Nancy to her children. Nancy was a member of Noxapater Baptist Church. She also enjoyed cooking and baking for her family.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Fred Pilgrim; daughter, Susan Pilgrim Webb (James Robert); her son, Casey Pilgrim (Candace); her grandchildren, Alyse Manning (Brent), Anna Claire Moore (Tanner), Paden Pilgrim, Audrey Pilgrim, Addy Higginbotham (Taylor), Carson Pilgrim, Camden Pilgrim; her great-grandchildren Jack Harper Manning, Estella Moore, and Ford Manning; and her brother Charles Bennett, in addition to numerous nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Grover and Zelma Bennett and her son Randy Pilgrim.

William Allen Butters

William Allen Butters passed away peacefully in his home in Rainsville Alabama on August 14, 2026. Allen was born to James Atley and Mary Swanner Butters on November 1, 1937, in Meridian, Mississippi. They lived in Meridian and Mobile before settling in Louisville, where he grew up.
Allen was married to Jerry Reed from 1962 to 1966. He was married to Joe Ann Keene from 1967 until her death in 2022. Allen was a 1956 graduate of Louisville High School. He went into the United States Army upon graduation. He completed his basic training in Fort Jackson, South Carolina, in 1956 and a special duty course in Infantry Radio in Fort Benning, Georgia in 1959.

He was a Ham radio operator. After the army, Allen worked for the Coca-Cola Company delivering drinks and painting signs all over Winston County. He worked at Georgia Pacific and for Henry Suber doing television repairs. Then in Meridian he worked at Al Stien Portrait Studio. He hired on as an electrician at Delco Remy in Meridian at their opening in 1976 and worked there until their closing in 1996. He then transferred to General Motors Saginaw Steering Gear Plant in Decatur, Alabama, where he retired.

Allen learned photography from his parents. He learned electronics and electrical skills in the Army. Allen was saved at the First Methodist Church of Louisville at the age of 18. He loved and prayed for his children and grandchildren. He loved animals, especially his cats. He was a jack-of-all-trades and had many life-long friendships.

He is survived by his sister: Laura (Roger) Griffith, sister-in-law: Rubye (Wayne) Clark, children: Linda Kay (Kenya) Duckworth, Kathy Lynn Ward, Karen Jean Roberts, James Allen (Emily) Butters, Rubye Joy (Dennis) Dodson, grandchildren: Kaylin Nicole Duckworth, Kelsey Noel Duckworth, William David Byrge, Woodrow Charles Byrge Jr., Mikel Wayne Byrge, Ruby Ann Dodson, Patrick Allen Dodson, great grandchild: Sincere Duckworth. Predeceased by his parents, his sister: Susan Butters Hale, his brother: David Lester Butters, his grandson: Kristopher Nigel Duckworth, & nephews: Kevin Clark and Gary Butters.

Funeral services for Allen will be 3 p.m. Sunday, August 23, 2026, in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel in Louisville, with Bro. Roger Griffith and Bro. John Sweeney officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 1 p.m. until service time at Massey Funeral Home. Interment will immediately follow the service in Memorial Cemetery in Louisville.

Gloria Hill Fulton

''God didn’t make but one Gloria.” This is an expression often heard from those who knew and loved Gloria Hill Fulton. Born on September 23, 1940, she was the only child of Henry and Hazel Woodward Hill. She ended this earthly journey on August 15, 2026, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Columbus, Mississippi surrounded by her family. Funeral services will be held August 18, 2026 at 2:00 pm with Mike Dowd and Ricky Bane officiating. Visitation will be held 11:30am, August 18, 2026 at Massey Funeral Home. Interment will be in the Rocky Hill cemetery. Massey Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Her father was a Superintendent of the HC Price Pipeline Co and Gloria spent much of her early life living across Canada and all over the United States as Henry kept his wife and young child with him near different job sites. While living in the trailer park environment and attending various schools, Gloria increased her vocabulary with some new words. Later in life, her tight group of friends “The Card Players” had a "cuss jar" for when Gloria practiced the art of her colorful language she had learned as a child. It was a known fact the jar filled with money rather quickly. When not on the pipeline sites in her childhood, she was back in Winston County growing up alongside her large group of Woodward cousins.

Raising her two children as a single mom, Gloria had lots of grit and determination. Dedra and Mark never doubted their mother’s love. In 1988, she married Bill Fulton and they enjoyed many wonderful years together. After her retirement from the Winston County Human Services, she and Bill owned and operated the Greyhound bus station and Bill’s BBQ.

A member of Whitehall Church, Gloria loved her church family. Desiring to learn more and to be filled with the Holy Spirit, she particularly enjoyed the Sunday and Wednesday night Bible studies. Her seriousness to grow closer to God was always mixed with a bit of Gloria humor when she would jokingly ask if Leviticus was a man or a woman. She also attended a Bible study lead by Marie Robbins at Good Hope Baptist Church. She also organized “The Card Players” at Whitehall and was always looking to include widows and senior ladies to keep them active and give them some company.

Not only did Gloria enjoy the church card games, but she loved playing blackjack. She thought nothing of driving to her southern office to play a hand. And she was blessed to be able to zip up and down the roads until just a few days before her death.

Proverbs 31 women come in all shapes and sizes. Gloria was full of compassion and had a heart of gold. When she heard of someone with a need or facing a health issue, she would quietly go pay their electric bill. Very few knew about her gracious giving habits, and she wanted it that way. A credit just suddenly appeared on the account just when they needed it most. Her secret was only revealed to those she occasionally had to ask for help in finding out the recipient's address or full name. She paid thousands of dollars in this manner through the years never wanting the recognition or thanks. As she always said, “I got here with nothing, and I want to leave this world with nothing." She secretly took care of others just as Matthew 6:1 instructs all of us to do.

Gloria is survived by her daughter Dedra Luke and her husband David of Louisville. She was NeNe to her grandchildren Dalton (Kayla) Luke and Victoria Luke. Affectionately called "Glo Jean" by Victoria who Gloria called "Pony". She was blessed with two great-grandchildren, Easton and Cohen Luke. She loved the walks with Easton and Cohen was her baby. She considered Bill’s children her own and is survived by his daughter Cynthia (Schon) Duke and their children Cameron (Julia) Duke and Tally (Owen) Connelly; his daughter Marsha (Scott) Chambliss and their sons Zach (Jordan) Chambliss and Jack (Samantha) Chambliss; his son Patrick (Pam); his daughter Stefanie (John) Ascherl and their sons Fulton Ascherl and William Ascherl; and his daughter Amy Fulton and her son Reese Fulton.

She is proceeded in death by her husband Bill Fulton, her son Mark Davis, and her parents.

God didn’t make but that one Gloria Fulton, but those who knew her were truly blessed to have her in their lives.

Memorials may be made to Whitehall Church, c/o Garvin Whitten, 10954 Highway 14 West, Louisville, MS 39339.

Geraldine Dempsey

Geraldine Dempsey, 89, passed away on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at her home in Louisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Saturday, August 15 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Jimmy Dempsey officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 11:30 a.m. until service time at Massey Funeral Home in Louisville, Mississippi. Interment will immediately follow the service in New Hope Methodist Cemetery.

Geraldine was born to Andrew and Jessie Tharp Dempsey on July 14, 1937, in Winston County, Mississippi. For as long as her health allowed, she was an active and faithful member of West End Baptist Church. Geraldine was a caregiver, lovingly caring not only for her family but also for children through the years. She devoted many years of service to Winston Medical Center, where she worked in the Housekeeping Department. In her free time, she also enjoyed working in her garden.

Geraldine is survived by five sisters: Virginia Stanley, Louise Dempsey, and Dorothy Stevenson all of Louisville; Janice (Tommy) McBeth of Carthage, Mississippi; and Charlene Triplett of Noxapater, Mississippi; and her brother, Harold (Alice) Dempsey of Ackerman, Mississippi. She is also survived by her loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Katie Crossland and Pauline Dempsey; and two brothers, William “Dib” Dempsey and Jack Dempsey.

Serving as pallbearers are Charlie Dempsey, Brady Dempsey, Raymond Landrum, J. C. Nowell, and Terry Woodson.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Quality Hospice of Philadelphia, Mississippi, especially to Emily, Melissa, and Caitlyn for their devoted care, compassion, and support

Mattie Modine Kelley Nance

Mrs. Mattie Modine Kelley Nance, 98, passed away on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at her home in Louisville. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, August 15th, at Ellison Ridge Baptist Church, with Rev. Junior Davis and Rev. Michael Wells officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Porter Funeral Home, and on Saturday from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the church. Interment will be in Ellison Ridge Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Modine was born on October 28, 1927, in Winston County to J. D. and Mattie Sullivan Kelley. She was a graduate of Ellison Ridge High School. Modine was well known for her work as a sales clerk at The Jewell Shop in Louisville for many years, and she enjoyed every minute of her time there. Modine was very active in the community. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, the Winston County Homemakers Club, and the Hospital Auxiliary. She was also a lifelong member of Ellison Ridge Baptist Church. Modine loved spending time with her family. When she wasn’t doing that, she loved playing Bunco and watching Mississippi State sports, no matter which sport it was. Even during recent hospital stays, if the MSU Bulldogs were playing on TV, it was an absolute “must” that she be able to watch the game! At doctor office visits, Dr. Michael Ard always entered the room and greeted her with comments about the Bulldogs or last night’s game. The only thing that got her more excited than the Bulldogs were her twin great grandsons, Sam and Bryce. She enjoyed baking pies and carrying them to new members of the Ellison Ridge Community. While visiting, she would invite her new neighbors to Sunday School. She loved growing tomatoes, drinking a good cup of coffee, and having friends and relatives “drop” by for a visit. Her footprints are all over Ellison Ridge and she will be dearly missed. She always offered others her smile. It was clear that she had the “Light of Jesus” in her soul and it shone brightly.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Bryce “R.B.”; her parents; her son, Jerry Nance; her sisters, Maurice Kelley (Tarvin) Eaves, Christine (Frank) Parker, and Eva Pearl (John) Sansone; and two brothers, Junior Kelley and Dewitt Kelley.

Modine is survived by two daughters, Pam Nance of Louisville, and Patsy (John) Prisock of Craig Springs; a daughter-in-law, Joyce Nance; two grandchildren, Richard (Rachel) Nance and Jason (Sara) Nance; and two great grandsons, Sam and Bryce Nance.

Pallbearers will be Richard Nance, Jason Nance, John Prisock, Sam Nance, Bryce Nance, Barry Parker, Dylan Prisock, and Johnny Snow. Honorary pallbearers will be Dean Scarbrough and Dawson Scarbrough.

Memorials in Modine’s memory may be made to Ellison Ridge Baptist Church.

James Earl Miller-Roberson

 James Earl Miller-Roberson, 74, of Gulfport, MS., formerly of Louisville, MS., passed on Sunday, August 9, 2026 at Saint Joseph Hospice, Gulfport, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 1 p.m., from Trinity Church of God In Christ, 706 Winston Street, Louisville, MS. 39339. Visitation will be Friday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Antioch Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

James was born January 31, 1952 to the parents of James Eron Miller and Clara Miller Coleman, in Lauderdale County Mississippi.

James was preceded in death by his parents, James Eron Miller and Clara Miller Coleman; siblings, Ruth Thelma Walker, and Georgia Dianne Haynes.

James is survived by; wife, Glenette Roberson; children, Shanta Roberson, Lakeith Roberson (Tameka), Anita Roberson, Lakeisha Roberson; siblings, Clara Ann Hampton (Steven), and Eron Lavell Miller; grandchildren; TyAsia Roberson, Makariya Roberson, Kamari Wilson, Kamiah Roberson, Kiera Roberson and Winterlane Pitts; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and family.

David Ephriam Crawley, III

 David Ephriam Crawley, III, 83, of Louisville, MS., passed on Monday, August 3, 2026 at the Louisville Health Care Center, Louisville, MS.  Funeral Service will be Thursday, August 6, 2026 at 11 a.m., at Mount Moriah M. B. Church, 308 South Martin Luther King Dr., Louisville, MS.  Mr. Crawley, will be reposed at the Church on Thursday, one hour before service time.  Dr. Benjamin M. Pittman, will deliver the Eulogy.    Visitation will be Wednesday, from 3 until 6 p.m., at the Funeral Home.  Beck Funeral Home of Louisville is in charge of the arrangements.

David was born to the parents of Norma Gale Crawley and David Crawley, Jr. on June 15, 1943 in Attala County, Mississippi.

David is survived by his wife, Linda Crawley; children, Caroline "Boo" Crawley Commer and husband, Jimmy; David E. Crawley, IV and wife, Vera; grandchildren, Clayton Moore, Tanner Moore (Anna), David E. Crawley, V, Anniston Crawley, Tipper Crawley, Norah Crawley, and Margot Crawley; great grandchildren, Emery Moore, Masyn Moore, Demi Moore, and Estella Moore; step-daughters, Daya Cox and Tarae Hornsby; step-grandchildren, Hampton Cox, Ethridge Cox, Harrison Cox, Wayne Hornsby, Waylan Hornsby, and Ava Marie Hornsby; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Ellis Holdiness, Jr

Mr. Ellis Holdiness, Jr, 88, passed away on Friday, July 31, 2026, at home surrounded by family. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at Poplar Flat Baptist Church with Rev. Doug Wise officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday evening from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Porter Funeral Home, and on Wednesday at the church from 10:00 A.M. until service time. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.


Ellis was born February 19, 1938, in Louisville, MS to Ellis and Lydia Holdiness. Ellis spent a little more than 20 years in the U.S. Army with station stops in Texas, Germany and Washington, DC. After retiring from the Army, Ellis went to work for the VA Hospital where he spent another 20 years. After retiring, Ellis and Arlene moved back to Louisville. Ellis loved spending time with his family – especially his grandchildren and his great grandchild. Ellis enjoyed working with Samaritans Purse when he was able to.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ellis and Lydia Holdiness; four sisters, Valeria (Sis) Humphries, Janie Clark, Vera Hummell and Bobbie Ruth Rogers; four brothers, Herbert Holdiness, Hubert Holdiness, Clyde Holdiness, and T.W. Holdiness.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Arlene Holdiness of Louisville, MS; two sons Bill Holdiness of Woodbridge, VA and Ken Holdiness of Flowood, MS; a sister, Carolyn Ward of Iuka, MS; two grandchildren, Lydia Bryan of Tupelo, MS and Gregory Holdiness of Flowood, MS; one grandchild, Asher Hayes of Tupelo, MS; numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be David Ward, Michael Gates, Clay Gates, Clay Bane, Robert (Bob) Burks and Robbye McMillan. Honorary pallbearers will be David Lewis, Jerry Allen Holdiness, John Michael Holdiness and Patrick Holdiness and the men from Poplar Flat Sunday School that Ellis taught on Sunday mornings.

Zachariah Brown

Zachariah Brown, 92, of Louisville, MS., passed on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at the Louisville Health Care Center, Louisville, MS. Funeral Service will be Sunday, August 2, 2026 at 2 p.m., at the Mount Pisgah M. B. Church, Louisville, MS. 39339. Visitation will be Saturday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Mount Pisgah Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Martha Marie Slawson

Martha Marie Slawson, 93, passed away on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at Pilgrim Manor Nursing Home in Bossier City, Louisiana. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, August 4 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Jerry Lundy officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 9:00 a.m. until service time at Massey Funeral Home in Louisville, Mississippi. Interment will immediately follow the service in Harmony Cemetery.

Martha was born to John Boyd and Annie Laura Horton Gregory on March 3, 1933, in Winston County, Mississippi. She was a member of Harmony Baptist Church. Martha enjoyed gardening and ordering from the $1 menu at McDonald’s. Most of all, she dearly loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them.

Martha is survived by her son, Paul Russell Slawson (Bebia Ann) of Bossier City, Louisiana; and her sister, Betty Stevens of Sallis, Mississippi. One of her greatest joys was being with her four grandchildren: Russell Bryan Slawson, Carie Ann Bernard (Fred), Beckie Leigh McCormic (Todd Woodward), and Thomas Reed Slawson. She is also survived by six great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Randolph Slawson; son, Randy Slawson; grandson, James Randolph Slawson; and her parents.