Arlene Barrett

Mary Arlene Collins Barrett, age 81, passed away Thursday, July 30, 2026, at her home with her loving family at her side. Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Saturday, August 1, 2026, in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel in Louisville, Mississippi, with Bro. Eddie Agnew and Bro. Dwayne Barrett officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service at Massey Funeral Home from 1 p.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in Sunrise Cemetery in Noxapater, Mississippi.

Arlene was born July 9, 1945, to Lamar and Lillian Kemp Collins in Louisville. In a tribute written by Apryl Barnett Triplett, she described Mawmaw Arlene as “one of the most God-fearing women I’ve ever known. She loved the Lord with all her heart, and she lived her faith every single day. She didn’t have to preach it for people to see it—you could feel it in her kindness, her prayers, her gentle spirit, and the way she loved everyone who walked through her door. I was blessed to be loved by her not only as a child but also as a mother. She babysat me, and years later, she lovingly cared for my own children. What an incredible blessing it is to say that someone loved generations of your family so well. She kissed our scraped knees, dried our tears, spoiled us with her love, and made us feel safe and cared for no matter how old we were. And if you knew Mawmaw Arlene, then you knew about her chicken and dumplings. They were simply the best. They weren’t just food—they were comfort, warmth, and love served in a bowl. 

There will never be another quite like hers because they were made with the same ingredient she poured into everything she did—love. She never met a stranger for very long. Today, I find comfort knowing that while we’re mourning here on Earth, Heaven is rejoicing. I can only imagine her hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” She spent her life serving others, loving others, and pointing them toward Jesus. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, and unconditional love that will live on in all of us who were blessed enough to know her.” Arlene enjoyed the time the family spent traveling across the United States meeting new people and seeing great places while Joe worked with Irby Construction Company. Arlene and Joe had an “open door policy”—they welcomed anyone, even strangers, offering them a safe place with food to eat, a place to sleep, and a family to be a part of for weeks to even months. For many years, she wrote a weekly “Rambling with Arlene” article for the Winston County Journal.

Arlene is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Joe Barrett of Noxapater; and her children: Mary Ann Stokes of Louisville; Dwayne Barrett (TJ) also of Noxapater; Donna Vowell of Philadelphia, Mississippi; and Peggy Hollingsworth (David) of Morton, Mississippi. One of her greatest joys was being “Mawmaw Arlene” to her 13 grandchildren: Dana Parker (Steve), Will Snow (Samantha), Emerald Barrett, Susannah Smith (Austin), Michael Dee Yates (Chasity), April Sills (Roy), Michael Stokes (Keri Beth), Rebecca Foster (Preston), Candace Bragg (Justin), Isaac Barrett, Hailey Barrett, Hannah Hamilton Smith (Cody), and Ashton Brooke Copaus (Chantry); as well as 30 great-grandchildren and eight great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Joanne Goodin; and her brother, Wiley “Pee Wee” Collins (Beth); in addition to many loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and cherished friends. Arlene is preceded in death by her son, Devon Barrett; son-in-law, Antoine Stokes; granddaughter, Karen Woods; her parents; her brother, Shannon Collins; infant twin brothers, James Nelson Collins and Jimmy Elton Collins; and an infant sister, Cynthia Collins.

Serving as pallbearers are Michael Stokes, Isaac Barrett, Michael Dee Yates, Preston Foster, Steve Parker, Austin Snow, Will Snow, and Justin Bragg. Memorials in honor of Arlene may be given to Sunrise Cemetery Fund.

Billy Morris Edwards

 Mr Billy Morris Edwards died Thursday July 30, 2026 at the Mississippi Veteran's Home in Kosciusko MS.  Funeral Services will be held 10:00 am Monday August 3, at Porter Funeral Home with visitation from 9:00 am until service time.  Full obituary to follow.  

Peggy Childs Mitchell

Mrs. Peggy Childs Mitchell passed away on July 29, 2026, at age 87. She was surrounded by family and joined her husband H. C. Mitchell and her parents Howard and Jessie Childs in eternal rest and peace. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, August 2nd, at Porter Funeral Home in Louisville, MS with Rev. Mike Childs officiating. Visitation will be Sunday from 1:00 P.M. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Memorial Park Gardens in Starkville, MS.

Peggy was born January 6, 1939, in Louisville, MS and graduated from Louisville High School. She attended East Central Community College, and while raising her family attended Mississippi State University. Peggy was the manager of the Mississippi Employment Security Commission office in Starkville for 27 years and loved helping the community of Starkville. After retirement, Peggy had more time for genealogical research and went to work on her family line in Winston County and beyond. She worked with other genealogists in Winston County to get the Winston County Mississippi Cemeteries book documented and published. May trips to libraries and city halls were made to look for relatives that were long gone.

Peggy was preceded in death by her husband, H. C. Mitchell; her parents; and daughter-in-law, Beth Hall Mitchell. She is survived by her daughter, Sandy (Dennis) Reves of Madison, MS; two sons, Rusty (Beth) Mitchell of Louisville, and Randy Mitchell of Helena, AL; a brother, Fred Howard Childs of Louisville, MS; grandchildren, Stephen (Jessica) Mitchell, Andrew (Lauren) Mitchell, Cooper (Jackie) Reves, Peyton Reves, Molly (Travis) Glisson, and Ross Mitchell; and her great grandchildren, Carter Mitchell, Parker Mitchell, Harrison Reves, and Murphy Reves. 

Lovie Bush Kusick

Lovie Bush Kusick, age 86, passed away peacefully Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at Winston Medical Center Nursing Home with her loving family at her side. A Celebration of Life Service will be Sunday, August 9, 2026, at 4 p.m. at Wess Chapel Baptist Church in Louisville, Mississippi. Visitation will be the day of the memorial service from 3 p.m. until service time at the church. A private family burial will be held at a later date.

Lovie was born on June 23, 1940, to Perry Lee and Lovie Wingate. Tragically, her mother passed away during childbirth. She was adopted and raised by Ralph and Lucille Hatcher Bush, who loved her as their own. Throughout her life, she remained connected to her birth family, enjoying the love of both families. Lovie married the love of her life, James Edward Kusick, and together they began a life of faith and service. The couple moved to New Orleans, Louisiana, where James attended seminary. As a devoted pastor's wife, Lovie faithfully served alongside her husband, often sharing her musical talents by playing the piano. Lovie was a faithful member of Wess Chapel Baptist Church as long as her health allowed her to attend.

Lovie dedicated 25 years of her life as a school bus driver, safely transporting countless children. Later, she became the primary caregiver for her husband following his stroke. She became interested in and was certified in Homeopathic Medicine focusing on Nutrition.

Throughout her life, Lovie faced extraordinary challenges with courage. After being displaced by Hurricane Katrina, she made Louisville, Mississippi, her home. In 2014, she survived the devastating tornado that struck Louisville, enduring the destruction of her home while she was inside. Through the kindness and generosity of Samaritan's Purse, her home was rebuilt.

She was an enthusiastic early-bird garage sale shopper. She also enjoyed watching home shopping channels, traveling with friends, and never turned down a Little Debbie snack cake.

Lovie leaves behind many cherished family members. She is survived by her daughters, Penny Crowson (Chris) of Louisville; and Jenny Sutton of Burbank, California; and her daughter-in-law, Geri Kusick of Bluff City, Tennessee. One of her greatest joys was being “Mamaw Lovie” to her grandchildren: Sarah Crowson Deal (Michael), Paul Crowson, Amanda Kusick, Stephen Kusick, Katelyn Kusick, Michael Sutton, Noah Sutton, and Lovie Sutton; as well as her four great-grandchildren: John Thomas Deal, Daniel Deal, Baileigh Crowson, and Logan Crowson. She is also survived by her sister, Leola Boyd; in addition to many loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Lovie is preceded in death in death by her husband of 41 years, James Edward Kusick; son, Steve Kusick; granddaughter, Rachel Crowson; great-grandson, Collin Deal; her birth parents, Perry Lee and Lovie Wingate; her adoptive parents, Ralph and Lucille Bush; three sisters, Louise, Bonnie and Julia Kate; and four brothers: Aubrey Bush, Preston Wingate, Austin Wingate, and Joe Bennett Wingate.

Leroy Russell Lewis

 Leroy Russell Lewis, 66, of Louisville, MS., passed on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at the Louisville Health Care Center, Louisville, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, August 1, 2026, 11 a.m., at Beck Funeral Home. Visitation will be the day of service, from 9 a.m., until the funeral hour. Burial will be in the Ruth Cemetery, Macon, MS. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements. 

Leroy was born December 25, 1959 to the parents of Russell Lewis and Lillie Mae Hull Lewis.

Leroy was preceded in death by his wife, Pearlie Lewis; parents, Russell and Lillie Mae Lewis; sisters, Crystal Lewis and Deborah Lewis.

Leroy is survived by his  sisters, Josie M. Lewis, Mabelline Hull (Leonard), Ethel Harris, Earline Brent (Eddie), and  Cathy Lewis; brothers, Willie Hull, Robert E. Lewis, and Frederick Love (Keisha); nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Angela Marie Walker

 Angela Marie Walker, 52, of Louisville, MS., passed on Friday, July 24, 2026 at the Winston County Medical Center, Louisville, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, August 1, 2026 at  2 p.m., from Calvary Apostolic Faith Church, 54 Beal Avenue, Louisville, MS. 39339. Burial will be in the Mount Sinai Church Cemetery. Elder James Young will deliver the Eulogy. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville is in charge of arrangements.

Angela was born to the parents, of Dorothy Willis and John Walker, on December 30, 1973, in Winston County Mississippi.

Angela was preceded in death by her father, John Henry Walker; sister, Mattie Sangster.

She is survived by her children; Tamara Ragg and Jamarica Walker; grandchildren, Triston, Angel, Kemarion, Kingsley, and Patience; Mother, Dorothy Willis; siblings, Alton, Kevin, Chris, Travis, Gloria (Rodney), Teresa, Leslie, Kenisha, Lillian, and  Renita (Jeffery); aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends,

Jean Claire Woodruff

Jean Claire Woodruff, age 92, entered the Kingdom of Heaven on July 26, 2026. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, July 29th, at First Baptist Church, Rev. Tim Smith and Dr. Heath Hillman officiating. Visitation will be Wednesday from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the church. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

She was born in McCool, Miss., where she spent her childhood and was a fixture in Louisville, Miss., for decades.

Jean’s kindness and selflessness knew no bounds. She loved deeply, forgave quickly and prayed constantly. She lived her life for Jesus, and her actions personified His teachings. A phrase that was often said of Jean: “She would give you the shirt off her back.” She would.

As Jesus taught in Luke 6:29: "If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them." That was Jean. She believed everyone was redeemable and made in the image of God. She saw the good in people and wanted everyone to be saved.

She was a great listener and rarely complained. She was a refuge for others during times of difficulty and loved her family and friends unconditionally. She was always thinking of others before herself.

Jean recognized her own wants and desires, but she was quick to surrender them to God’s will. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding,” she would often say. She knew God had a plan and trusted it wholeheartedly, even when the path ahead was unclear. Jean had a beautiful way of reassuring others that God had a plan for them, too, and that there was no need to worry. She often quoted Romans 8:28: “All things work together for good.”

To know Jean was to see one of her many well-worn Bibles — each marked with highlighted passages, underlined verses and handwritten reflections from years spent in God’s Word. Jean immersed herself in Scripture, seeking wisdom, guidance and truth from its pages. This was never more evident than when she prayed, effortlessly recalling and weaving God’s Word into her prayers. Her prayers were spontaneous and sincere. God spoke through Jean, and she prayed for everyone. Jean deeply believed in the power of prayer and used it often as a way to uplift others.

Jean frequently led the blessing before holiday meals and other family gatherings. During these moments, she would give thanks, and the list was long: She gave thanks for the gift of family and for every blessing — big or small — in the lives of those she loved. Whether celebrating a milestone, answered prayer or the joy of being together, Jean never failed to recognize God’s goodness. More often than not, after one of these heartfelt prayers, a family member would gently remind her with a smile, “You forgot to bless the food, Mammaw.” So focused on giving thanks for God’s countless blessings, she would overlook the meal itself. It became a cherished family joke and a moment that never failed to bring laughter around the table.

Jean reflected Christ’s love in ordinary moments that became lasting blessings to those around her. She had a way of leaving people with a thoughtful card, a handwritten note, a printed hymn or devotional, or a small spiritual keepsake. These simple gifts were tangible expressions of her love, encouragement and unwavering faith. Sharing God’s love with others brought Jean great joy, and she never missed an opportunity to remind them of God’s presence in their lives. Jean had a habit of calling others “precious,” a simple word that reflected how she saw the people around her. “My precious grandchildren,” she would often say. Those who knew her would undoubtedly say the same about Jean. Jean was precious.

During the last years of her life, she stopped saying goodbye to people. She didn’t believe in the finality of goodbyes. She was focused on eternity, a blissful eternity she would get to spend with her loved ones. She ended conversations with a simple reminder: “Jesus loves you.”

A mother, wife, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, we grieve the temporary absence of Jean, but we also rejoice. We rejoice knowing that Jean is now with her Lord and Savior and free from pain. She has heard the voice of her Savior say to her, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

She often felt that what she had to give wasn’t enough, but it was more than enough. Her legacy will live on in every act of kindness inspired by her example, every prayer whispered because she taught us to pray and every heart that learned what selfless love looks like simply by watching her live.

Jesus loves you.

Jean is survived by her sister, Polly Whitmire; her daughters, Cindy Reynolds and her husband, Randy, and Jeannie Ammon; her grandchildren, Matt Reynolds and his wife, Sami, Nathan Reynolds and his wife, Lauren, Luke Reynolds and his wife, Raeanna, David Ammon and his wife, Kerri Mathews, Justin Ammon, Bret Ammon, and Abbie Emerson and her husband, Sam; and her great-grandchildren, Tatum Reynolds, Gage Reynolds, Rhys Reynolds, Jett Reynolds, Dru Reynolds, Ripken Reynolds, Brody Reynolds, Bray Reynolds, Zoey Ammon and Noah Wesley Emerson.

She was preceded in death by her husband, David G. Woodruff, and her parents, Pauline and Dewitt Whitmire.

Ann Reynolds

Mrs. Ann Reynolds, 84, passed away on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at her home in Louisville. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, August 1st, at First Presbyterian Church, wtih Rev. Heath Cross officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. until service time at the church. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Ann Rogers Reynolds was born in Canton, MS, August 16, 1941, to Walter Mills Rogers and Karnese Dickerson Rogers. She was named after her great-grandmother Martha Ann Williams Schultz. Ann proudly held her father in high regard, for he died while serving in the U.S. Army in a battle in France in 1944. He was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry and the Purple Heart, and was interred in Brittany American Cemetery, St. James, France. Her mother subsequently remarried.

Ann was brought up lovingly by her mother’s sister, Eleanor Dickerson Rives(called Mother) and her husband, Bill Rives (Pop) in Louisville. She graduated from Louisville High School, and attended Mississippi University for Women in Columbus, MS.

Ann married Terry Reynolds on May 13, 1960. They have two children, Carolyn Dawn Reynolds of Gulfport, MS and William Bruce Reynolds (Cynthia) of Starkville, MS.

She is preceded in death by her parents Walter and Karnese Rogers, Bill and Eleanor Rives; parents-in- law Clyde and Rosie Reynolds; Aunt Juanita D. Allen, Uncle James Dickerson Jr.; sisters-in-law Bertha Beatrice “Biddie” Pickle, and Bonnie Nell “Peck” Terry.

She is survived by her grandchildren: Jonathan Stinson, Josh Stinson, Jake Stinson, Brooklyn Reynolds, Rankin Reynolds, and Rives Reynolds.

It was very special to Ann that her grandson, Josh (and Shelby) chose Ann to be their daughter's middle name after her (Collin Ann Stinson).

Great-grandchildren: Collin Ann Stinson and Hudson Stinson.

She is also survived by sisters-in-law Joy Parkerson, Jo Jenkins, Shirley Kelly, and Sue Ables; eleven nieces and nephews; eighteen great nieces and nephews; and eleven great-great nieces and nephews.

Ann shared a close and special relationship with Terry’s sisters. She loved them as her own sisters and shared her life with them as sisters and friends.

Ann taught kindergarten for many years beginning with First Methodist Church in Louisville, then at Winston Academy. Ann worked as office manager for Rives and Reynolds Lumber Company.

Ann had a love of cooking, entertaining and hosting special events in the lives of others, reading, and spending time with family and friends. For many years, she would regularly visit nursing home residents. She was a member of the Belle Arts Club and the Music Club.

Ann and Terry were members of St. John’s Lutheran Church of Louisville until it was dissolved. They then became faithful members of First Presbyterian Church. Ann was a tireless worker in the women’s ministry of the church. She had a passion to help those who were in need, grieving or in poor health. She was always leading and contributing to these ministries and faithful to the women’s Bible studies. Hosting the meetings gave her great joy.

She was a lover of sound preaching, corporate worship and the fellowship of the saints. As her health declined she grieved because she could not be in worship. She loved good music. As a child her mother had her take voice lessons. One song she learned in Latin was “Jubilate Deo”.

In 2024 the church choir sang this song in Latin. She began to quietly sing along. It all came back to her. She was so happy that day! Now she will never miss church because it will never end, and she will always be singing.

Memorials in Ann's memory may be made to First Presbyterian Church or St. Jude's Children's Hospital. 

Ann’s favorite Bible verses were Ecclesiastes 3:1–8:

1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: 2 a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; 3 a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; 4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; 5 a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; 6 a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; 7 a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;8 a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace. (ESV) 

Clara Bell Roberson

Clara Bell Roberson, 89, of California, formerly of Louisville, MS, passed away on Sunday, July 5, 2026 in Virginia surrounded by the love of her family.  Funeral Service will be Saturday, July 25, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., at Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, 206 Pleasant Grove Road, Louisville, MS 39339.  Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m. from the Funeral Home.  Beck Funeral Home of Louisville, in charge of arrangements.

Clara was born, along side her twin brother, Ozell, to Ezell Porter and Alice Kincaid Porter in Winston County, Mississippi.

Clara was preceded in death by her husband, Willie David Roberson; parents, Alice and Ezell Porter; daughter, Lynette Roberson Merritt; great grandson, Major Campbell; siblings, Ester Coleman, Emma Hughes, Alice Liddell, Sutie Lee Sherrod, Pearlie Mae Triplett, Henry Porter, Arthur Porter, Ozell Porter, Willie D. Porter, Rose Bud Porter, and Albert Porter.

She is survived by her daughters, Debra Love (David) Dowling, Barbara Roberson and Genette Roberson; sister, Erma Jean Davis; grandchildren, Vincent T. Love, Ashley (Geofry) Taylor, Miles A. Moore, Stedman J. (Brie) Merritt, and Lisa L. (Kentrel) Adams; great grandchildren, Quan Harrington, Egypt O. Noah, Geofry Taylor, Jr., Skylar Genette Taylor, Zaya Merritt, Jeremiah Adams, Moses Adams, and Sanaalyn K. Adams; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Bobbie Jean Rush

 Bobbie Jean Rush, 68, of Louisville, MS passed on Friday, July 17, 2026, at St Dominic Hospital in Jackson, Mississippi. Funeral Services will be held 10:00 A.M. Sunday, July 26, 2026, from Unity Outreach Fellowship Church in Louisville, Mississippi. Burial will follow in Center Ridge Baptist Church in Louisville, Mississippi. Visitation will be held 4:00 P.M.-6:00 P.M. Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Beck Funeral Home Louisville. Beck Funeral Home Louisville is in charge of all arrangements.

Bobbie Jean Rush is survived by her daughter, Belmai Latisha Bradford (Gerald) of Louisville, MS; five grandchildren; one great great grandchild; brothers, Selma McQueen, Jr., of New Albany, MS, Eddie Green and Charles Green both of Sikeston, MO; sisters, Josephine Green of Louisville, MS, and Lillie Fisher of Virginia Beach, VA. Bishop Joseph Berry is the officiant of services.

Edward H. Triplett

Edward Hampton Triplett, 91, passed away Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Winston Medical Center Nursing Home in Louisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 22 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. David Keen and Bro. Eugene Triplett officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 12 p.m. until service time at Massey Funeral Home in Louisville. Interment will immediately follow the service in Jackson Field Cemetery with Bro. Corey Jackson officiating.

Ed was born December 19, 1934, to Woodrow and Gladys Cole Triplett. He was a faithful member of Dry Creek Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher. Ed enjoyed reading, fishing, studying his Bible, and gardening. For more than 27 years, he worked at Spartus Corporation as a tool and die maker. Later, he continued his career at Chata Enterprises in Philadelphia, Mississippi. He answered the call of his country by serving in the United States Air Force.

Ed is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, June Triplett; and his sons, Tim (Tammie) Triplett of Meridian, Mississippi; and Steve (Janet) Triplett of Preston, Mississippi. One of his greatest joys was being “Paw” to his four grandchildren: Traci Triplett, Wally Triplett, Taylor Triplett, and Daniel Triplett; and one great-grandchild, Reagan Triplett. He is also survived by two brothers, Ted (Susie) Triplett and Eugene (Jane) Triplett; in addition to his loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Sylvia Kinard; and his brother, Grady Triplett.

Serving as pallbearers are Wally Triplett, Daniel Triplett, Taylor Triplett, Marty Triplett, Randy Triplett, Luke Triplett, and Perry Kitchens. Honorary pallbearers are Wayne Smith and Leon Fulton. Memorials in honor of Ed may be given to Jackson Field Cemetery Fund

Tre'lynda Monique Lewis

 Tre'lynda Monique Lewis, 39, of Midland, Texas, formerly of Noxapater, MS., passed on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at her home. Funeral Service will be Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 11 a.m., at  Mount Pleasant#2 M. B. Church, 637 Mount Pleasant Road, Noxapater, MS. 39346. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville, in charge of arrangements.

Eugene Gordon Triplett

 Eugene Gordon Triplett, 73, of Louisville, MS., passed on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at his home. Visitation will be Saturday, from 12 noon until 2 p.m., from the Beck Funeral Home, 226 North St., Louisville, MS. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Eugene was born to the parents of Garden Triplett and Emma Jean Triplett in 1953, in Winston County Mississippi. Eugene was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Triplett; daughters, Dekeatura Triplett, and April Triplett; parents, Garden and Emma Triplett; sibling, Clara Scrugg.

Eugene is survived by his daughters, Shetara White (Dennis),  and Regina Triplett; ( 8) grandchildren ;siblings, Charles Triplett and,  Mary Lane; niece, nephews, cousins and other relatives and family.

Billy Raymond Power

Billy Raymond Power, 84, of Bay St. Louis, MS, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026 with his wife Sandra by his side.

Born March 8, 1942, in Starkville, MS, Billy was the son of Curtis and Frankie Sue (King) Power. He graduated from Weir High School in 1960 and Mississippi State University in May 1964 with a B. A. in Education.

Growing up, Billy enjoyed working and building with his father at his mechanic shop. Whether it was changing spark plugs on cars or rebuilding motors, there was no task that he would not complete to the best of his ability.

In a town of less than 500 people, Billy met a girl who would become his wife of 62 years. Billy and Sandra met early in high school and dated throughout. Billy’s mechanical knowledge came in handy during college when he would disconnect the odometer in his car so his parents would not know he was going to visit Sandra out in the country.

They married in 1964 at New Zion Church in Weir, MS. After student-teaching in Bay St. Louis, Billy came to love the area and the two made their home there.

In 1966, Billy and Sandra started their family and raised their two children, Stephanie and Doug. They became active members of Old Town Presbyterian Church. Billy served as an Elder of the church for many years and in 2025 was honored as Elder Emeritus after 54 years of dedicated membership.

It comes as no surprise that Billy then spent 22 years teaching junior high shop in the Bay-Waveland school system. In those 22 years, Billy helped shape many of his students’ futures by his ability to instruct and guide them through shop projects. The success of his classes and students was only possible through his unparalleled patience. Just think about trying to teach 13-15 year olds how to measure, cut, and sand a piece of wood for the first time.

Billy left his teaching career to work at GE Plastics as an operations technician. He spent 18 years there and retired in 2005.

In the shop behind their house, there was always a project in progress. From fixing up Stephanie’s and Doug’s first cars, to providing friends and neighbors with the tools and space they needed, Billy’s shop was an integral part of many people’s lives. Not only his children, but his grandchildren have many fond memories of working on projects with him in his shop. There’s no question he earned the nickname “Mr. Fix It”.

One of his proudest projects was building a house constructed of timber he and his father cut and sawmilled themselves. Now called “The Farmhouse”, this home in Choctaw County, MS has served as a place for his family to spend time together. When he was not taking on a big project, he enjoyed carving and painting duck decoys.

Known for his handiness, witty sayings, and love of the outdoors, Billy spent his life serving others and has undoubtedly left an impact on those who knew him. Billy will be greatly missed, but his family has great pride in knowing how many lives he touched and will forever cherish the countless memories they have with him.

He is survived by his loving wife Sandra Whitmire Power, his daughter Stephanie Ruoss (Hans), his son Doug (Marcie), his grandchildren Nick Ruoss, Jonathan Ruoss (Megan), Rachel Ruoss, Victoria Power (Elizabeth), Amelia Power, great-granddaughter Nicole Ruoss, sister Debbie Rice (Bill), sisters-in-law Annabelle Dunlap (Dave) and Martha Mills (David), brother-in-law Wayne Ingram (Gloria), and many extended family members. Billy was preceded in death by his parents and his sister-in-law Linda Ingram. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Katherine Major who assisted recently with his care and for the staff at St. Joseph’s Hospice.

A funeral service will be held on July 16, 2026 at 3:00 P.M. at Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church, 176 Mt. Zion Rd., McCool, MS 39108. Visitation will be held at the church from 2:00 until 3:00 P.M. prior to the service. Interment will be in Mt. Zion Cemetery.

A memorial service will be held at Old Town Presbyterian Church, 114 Ulman Ave., Bay St. Louis, MS on July 18, 2026 at 2:00pm.

Dennis Charles Duty

Mr. Dennis Charles Duty, 64, passed away on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, MS. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, July 15th, at Porter Funeral Home, with Dr. Heath Hillman officiating. Visitation will be Wednesday from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the funeral home. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Dennis was born June 15, 1962, in Dahlonega, Georgia, to Charles and Shirley Duty. He graduated from Central High School in Phenix City, AL, and received his associate degree in fire science from Chattahoochee Valley Community College. Dennis worked as a firefighter until his health forced him to retire. He was a jack-of-all-trades, having worked in construction with his brother, and later as a commercial specialist at Lowe’s. Dennis's love for the outdoors, hunting, and fishing led him to direct and produce his own, very popular, hunting and fishing show, called Southern Sportsman TV.  Along with hunting and fishing, his passion was raising cattle and spending time on his farm.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Vickie Ray Duty of Louisville; his brother, Darrell (Gina) Duty of Louisville; his sister-in-law, Wendy (David) Rouse of Jacksonville, FL; his nieces and nephews, Nick Duty, Courtney Duty Hunt, Cole Duty, and Leslie Dix-Kwiatek; and his great nieces and nephew, Aidyn Smith, Liam Hunt, and Ella Grace Smith.

Martha Dawn Luke Parkes

Martha Dawn Luke Parkes, 83, passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Winston Medical Center Nursing Home in Louisville, Mississippi, with her loving family at her side. Visitation will be Monday, July 13 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Massey Funeral Home in Louisville. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 14 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Becky Smith officiating. Interment will immediately follow the service in Good Hope Cemetery.

Martha Dawn was born to Argie and Jane Warner Luke on September 7, 1942, in Columbus, Mississippi. She was married to the love of her life, Lamar Parkes, on October 22, 1960, and remained a faithful wife for 65 years. Martha served Nanih Waiya school, first as a substitute teacher, and then for the next 23 years as the school secretary. Martha Dawn, affectionately called MD, Marta Dawn, or Martha, by her grands and great grands, supported her family and their many athletic endeavors. Some of their favorite memories involve her and trips to the Final Four.

Martha Dawn is survived by her children: Renee Parkes (Glen) Jones, Luke (Tammy) Parkes, and Dan (Kayla) Parkes all of Louisville. One of her greatest joys was her 12 grandchildren: Amanda Stanton (Adam), Jaimee (Justin) Childs, Drew (Cheryl) Jones, Meredith (Jon) Cherry, Cody (Anzie) Parkes, Warner Parkes, Marlee (Will) Stewart, Morgan (Michael) Pace, Channing Parkes, Taylor (Tayler) Miller, Blaine Miller, and Montana Miller. Martha Dawn especially enjoyed her 17 great-grandchildren: Bryce Stanton, Eli Stanton, Cade Jones, Peyton Jones, Grayson Jones, Hunter Gustavsen, Patton Childs, Quintin Childs, Hanna Gustavsen, Anders Cherry, Chancey Parkes, Charlee Parkes, Parker Williamson, Allie Kate Williamson, Hayes Pace, Nash Pace, and Rory Pace. She is also survived by her sister, Donna Luke (Mike) Pierce and her brother, Johnny (Ann) Parkes; in addition to a host of loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and cherished friends. She was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Lamar Parkes; and her parents.

Serving as pallbearers are Drew Jones, Jon Cherry, Cody Parkes, Will Stewart, Taylor Miller, Michael Pace, Eli Stanton, and Bryce Stanton. Honorary pallbearers are the remaining grandsons. Memorials in honor of Martha Dawn may be given to Middleton Cemetery Fund, c/o Sandra Holdiness, 626 Middleton Road, Louisville, MS 39339.

Tommy Lee "Tom" Chambers

 Mr. Tommy Lee "Tom" Chambers, 72, passed away on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at his home in Sebring, FL. Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time. 

Volia M. Gaddis

 Volia M. Gaddis, 86, passed away on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Winston Medical Center in Louisville, Mississippi, surrounded by her loving family. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 9, at Hight Assembly of God Church in Noxapater, Mississippi, with Rev. Tom Bentley and Rev. Cherish Morrison officiating, assisted by The Honorable Michael Watson. Visitation will be held at the church on the day of the service from 9:30 a.m. until the service begins. Interment will follow at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, July 10, at Machpelah Cemetery in Pascagoula, Mississippi.

Volia was born on September 12, 1939, in Columbia, Mississippi, to Howard and Edna Magee. She was a devoted Christian whose faith in God was the foundation of her life. A longtime member of Hight Assembly of God, she faithfully served as church secretary-treasurer for many years. Her love for the Lord was evident in the way she lived and in the Christian values she instilled in her children and grandchildren.

She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and homemaker who lovingly cared for her six children while also serving as co-owner of Yarbrough Wood Products. Volia had a servant’s heart and found great joy in caring for her family. She was an exceptional cook, and one of her family’s most treasured traditions was gathering around her table each Thanksgiving. She deeply cherished the close relationships she shared with her siblings and extended family. In her spare time, she enjoyed sewing, reading, and creating a warm, welcoming home for those she loved.

One of Volia’s greatest joys was being “Mamaw.” Her legacy of faith, love, kindness, and devotion to family will continue to live on through the generations she so dearly loved.

Volia is survived by her loving husband, Roger Gaddis of Noxapater. She is also survived by her children: Mark Forsman (Kay) of Noxapater; Merry Barnes (Rodney) of Panama City, Florida; Richard Gaddis (Kay) of Oviedo, Florida; William Gaddis (Lisa) of Aledo, Texas; and Joe Gaddis (Anne Kristine) of Vicenza, Italy. She is also survived by her 19 beloved grandchildren: Kerri Neal (Carl); Michael Watson (Lauren); Jessie Lott (Tyler); Jamie Yarbrough; Sara Feldman (Brett); Adam Forsman (Mindy); Josh Forsman (Blair); Cherish Morrison (Shane); Jacob Stewart (Kaleigh); Erin Stewart; Candace Savarese (Tyler); Allison Gaddis; Michaela Gaddis; Charles Gaddis (Anastasia); Thomas Gaddis; Susanna Gaddis; Emily Gaddis; Kristian Gaddis; and Derek Seay; 21 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by three sisters: Ouida Bryant, Linda Forsman (George), and Sybil Bullock; along with many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and cherished friends.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Frank J. Forsman and Kary Yarbrough; her children, Robert Lenn Forsman, Jimmy Yarbrough, Carol Watson, and Joy Watson; her parents, Howard and Edna Magee; and her siblings, Margaret Harvey, Grayson Magee, Edsel Magee, Frank Pittman Magee, and Dan Magee.

Serving as pallbearers are Michael Watson, Adam Forsman, Josh Forsman, Jacob Stewart, Charles Gaddis, and Thomas Gaddis. .

Edwin Karl Werkheiser II

 Edwin Karl Werkheiser II, a U.S. Navy veteran who grew up in Jackson and had an abiding love for his deer camp family along with his own, died July 6, 2026, at the Mississippi Veterans Home in Kosciusko. He was 82.

Known to all as “Eddy,” he was born January 12, 1944, in Greensboro, N.C., to Dr. Edwin Brooks

Werkheiser and Nellie Sue McNeil Werkheiser, of Philadelphia (MS) and Jackson. A student in Jackson public schools, he graduated Murrah High School in 1962 and Mississippi State University in 1966, with a degree in political science.

After graduation, he enlisted in the Navy, serving 13 months on the USS Ranger aircraft carrier in 1970-71 during the Vietnam War, including in the Gulf of Tonkin and Subic Bay. Following military service, he attended Hinds Community College, focused on the engineering drafting and design program. He applied those skills in working at Smith and Sanders Inc. and at Neel-Schaffer Engineering.

For 43 years, Eddy was a member of the High Hill Hunting Club in Claiborne County.He was preceded in death by his parents and by his grandparents, Josie and Marvin G. McNeil and Jessie G. and Edwin Karl Werkheiser.He is survived by his son, Army Col. Edwin Brooks Werkheiser II and his wife, retired Air Force Col. Amanda Gookins Werkheiser, both of Yorktown, VA; grandson, Andy Werkheiser, also of Yorktown; brother, M. Brooks Werkheiser (Celeste) of Jacksonville Beach, FL; and sister, Susan Werkheiser Thompson (William) of Madison, MS; and four nieces and nephews and eight great-nieces and great-nephews.

A gathering of family and deer camp family and friends will be held at High Hill Hunting Club at a later date in remembrance and honor of Eddy.

The family expresses deep appreciation and thanks to the entire staff of the Mississippi Veterans Home in Kosciusko for their genuine kindness and devoted caregiving.

Beason Cooper

Beason Cooper, 71, of Louisville, MS., passed on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at Saint Dominic Hospital, Jackson, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 3 p.m., at Union Chapel M. B. Church, 142 Union Chapel 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.

Beason was born April 16, 1955 to the parents of Charlie Cooper and Annie Welch Cooper in Winston County Mississippi.

Preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Annie Cooper; siblings, Walter Lee (Nig), Willie D. (Bubba), Annie Mae (Sister), Charlie Cooper, Jr., Willis Cooper (Pig), Hermice Dixon (Newt), Nellie McNeese (Doll), Mary Lee Carter, James Welch (Big James), Joe Dan Cooper (Boodoo), Sally Bell Wallace,  Ann Lee Hughes, Veterine Wraggs (Mindy), Calvin Cooper, Gertrude Estes (Tata), Willie James Cooper and Charlene Collier

Beason is survived by his wife, Eloise Cooper; sons, Adrian Hopkins, and Beason Cooper, II, daughters, Devera Ricks, Tamika Gordon; precious grandchildren that he adored, Romance, Katlynn, Ethan Perry; and Vashon Wraggs, who he cherished and loved as a son; nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and family.