Monday, May 18, 2026
Lester Billups
Jerry Thomas Townsend
Mr. Townsend was born March 8, 1943, in Neshoba County, to William “Mutt” and Nadine Wilcher Townsend. He married Geneva Buck and together they shared 61 years of marriage. Over the years, he was a drywall installer and worked in the logging business.
Despite experiencing a stroke many years ago, Jerry never lost the stubborn determination and strong-willed spirit that defined him. He always found joy by engaging in teasing conversation that always resulted in loud laughter. He had a strong desire to stay connected with family and for the younger generation to know their family history. He spent many hours trying to tell stories through old pictures.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Frank Townsend; a son-in-law, Tim Cutlip; a sister, Peggy Duckworth; two brothers, Truman Townsend and Billy Townsend; and a granddaughter, Crystal Romedy.
He is survived by his wife, Geneva Buck Townsend of Louisville; a son, Thomas (Kay) Townsend of Louisville, MS; a daughter, Jerri Cutlip of Blue Springs, MS; a sister-in-law, Ruby Townsend of Philadephia, MS; four grandchildren, Chad (Megan) Townsend, Matthew Cutlip, Beka Townsend, and Darrion Wesley; and a number of great grandchildren.
Pallbearers will be Chad Townsend, Matthew Cutlip, Jeremiah Shaffer, Al Duckworth, Richard Townsend, and Randy Townsend.
John Eldridge Sullivan
Known for his unwavering loyalty, he stood firmly beside the people he loved and believed deeply in honesty, trust and commitment. He valued loyalty above all else and gave it freely to those who were fortunate enough to know him. His strong spirit and unmistakable presence left a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path.
Above all, he loved his son beyond measure. Being a father was one of the greatest sources of pride and purpose in John’s life. It was a love wrapped in constant protection.
John will be remembered for his love of the outdoors, his fierce loyalty, his very generous heart, his big presence in every room he entered, and the countless memories made around campfires, on fishing trips, and among the people he cherished most.
Though he is gone too soon, his memory will live on in the stories told, and the love he leaves behind in the hearts of his family and friends. “Big John” will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
John is survived by his son, John Eldridge “Jes” Sullivan, II; his sister, Amy Rosamond; and two brothers, Mark Sullivan (Karen) and Jeff Sullivan (Amanda). He dearly loved his nieces and nephew: Chasady Oswalt, Morgan Pace, and Channing Parkes; as well as his great-nieces and great-nephews. John is preceded in death by his parents, T. P. Sullivan, Jr. and Sylvia Hatcher Sullivan; and his grandparents.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Theresa Arnold
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Jessie Mae Miller McGowans
Jessie Mae, better known as "Lil Sister", was born November 27, 1943 to Minnie Burrage Miller and Plummer Miller.
Jessie Mae was preceded in death by her parents, Minnie and Plummer Miller; her husbands, Johnny Gail Lockett and Raymond C. McGowans; a daughter, Melamie Lockett; a grandson, Javreese Lockett; a granddaughter, LaQuonda Kirkwood; and her (8) siblings.
Jessie Mae is survived by her children, George Miller (Ella Ruth) of Louisville, MS, Rose Mary Eichelberger (Carl) of Noxapater, MS, Angela Mitchell (Daniel) of Douglasville, GA, Linda Gail Lockett of Louisville, MS and Katrina Cheadle (Lonnie) of Kansas City, MO, bonus children, Chris Coleman (Cynthia) of Louisville, MS, Essie Mae Rutledge of Denver, CO, Floyd Miller (Fannie) of Louisville, MS, and James Miller of Memphis, TN; (12) grandchildren, (20) great grandchildren, (3) great great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Monday, May 11, 2026
Robert Anthony Clark
Anthony was born November 8, 1942, to Robert L. “Bob” Clark and Hixie Hall Clark in Louisville. He was a member of the Louisville Masonic Lodge for 54 years where he attained the degree of Master Mason. Anthony also devoted 54 years to his career at Taylor Machine Works as a Material Handler and Parts Manager. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, and playing Santa for many years.
Anthony is survived by his five children: Peggy Ward (Rod), Dianne Cunningham, Tommy Clark (Jessica), Angela Clark, and Justin (Sarah) Clark. He is also survived by his sister, Lady Gillis; and three brothers: Wayne Clark, Scotty Clark, and Danny Clark. One of his greatest joys was being “Granddaddy” to his 13 grandchildren; his 13 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his wife, Beverly Chancellor Clark; his grandson, Clark Ray; and his parents.
Serving as pallbearers are Bart Chancellor, Clay Chancellor, Matt Sloan, Robert Prisock, Ben Clark, and Steven Eaves. Memorials in honor of Anthony may be given to Shriners Children’s Hospital online at shrinerschildrens.org.
Lexie Holman
Lexie is survived by her father, John Sullivan; her sisters, Ericka Auglair (Chris), Morgan Sullivan (Ben Barrett), and Jordan Sullivan; her grandfather, Jackie Oglesby; her aunts, Tracy Reynolds Walker (Wenton) and Jan Hollister (Jack); her niece, Presley Dill; her niece, Mamie Phillips; her nephew, Logan Harper; her nephew, Nate Auglair; her nephew, Jack Sullivan; and her nephew, Judd Barrett.
Lexie was preceded in death by her mother, Jackie Holman; her maternal grandmother, Idell Oglesby; and her paternal grandparents, Margaret and William Holman.
Visitation will be held at Shiloh Baptist Church, 3191 Shiloh Rd, Louisville, MS 39339, on May 16, 2026, from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm. Funeral services will follow at Shiloh Baptist Church, 3191 Shiloh Rd, Louisville, MS 39399, on May 16, 2026, beginning at 1:00 pm. Interment will take place at Shiloh Baptist Church Cemetery, 3191 Shiloh Rd, Louisville.
Pallbearers will be Blake McMinn, Alan Young, Craig Doby, Bradley Baysinger, Al Massey, and Chris Auglair. Honorary pallbearers will be Lamar Allen, Steve Allen, John Albert Young, Kenny Sullivan, and Logan Harper.
Carl Eric Hemphill
Eric was born May 18, 1986, to William and Rachel Conn Hemphill in Winston County, Mississippi. He enjoyed life! Eric enjoyed spending time with his friends and family; however, he loved his wife most of all. He especially enjoyed Thanksgiving and his sister-in-law’s dressing. Eric enjoyed fishing, hunting, and cutting grass. He loved sports, specifically wresting and football; especially Mississippi State football. Tammy and Eric had a good time watching tv. Eric loved his momma; she was the person who knew everything (so he thought)! He was loved by so many.
Eric is survived by his wife of 11 years, Tammy Davis Hemphill; and his mother, Rachel Hemphill Sullivan. He is also survived by his brother, Charlie Hemphill; his sister, Larae Cotton; and two sisters-in-law, Chrissy Hooks (Dennis) and Kathy Schaum (Robert). Eric also leaves behind his loving nieces and nephews: Aaliyah Hemphill, Alyssa Cottong, EverLeeanna Fulce, Victoria Hooks, Cameron Hooks, Robert Schaum, Jr., and Caitlyn Hooks; as well as his great-nieces and great-nephews: Kaelyn Hooks, Alex Langford, Khloe Love, Damien Warren, Chozen Hooks, Cotton Hooks, Kashtyn Love, and Kyson Love. He was preceded in death by his father, William Duell Hemphill; his brother, William Larry Hemphill; his grandparents, Paul Conn, Mary Jane Younng, and Carl and Minnie Hemphill; his aunt, Trudy and Herbert Conn; and his mother-in-law, Claudia Davis.
Friday, May 8, 2026
Keith Earl Ferrell
Keith was born September, 23, 1964 in the State of Illinois, to the parents of Odell Fulks and Ardoma Ferrell.
Keith was preceded in death by his father, Odell Fulks; grandmother, Mamie Ferrell; sister, Janet Beck; brother-in-law, Patrick Beck; and niece, Leah Beck.
Keith leaves to cherish his memories his wife, Victoria Jones Ferrell; his mother, Aroma Fulks; (4) sons, Keith Earl Burrage of Atlanta, GA, Travis Jamal Winters (Khandis) of Duluth, MN, Terence R. Griffin and Justin J. Jones both of Louisville MS; (7) daughters, Tatianna Ferrell-Ahmadou (Kolawole) of Chicago, IL, K'briyae Burrage of Atlanta, GA, Angel Jones, Robin Griffin both of Louisville, MS, Anastasia Jones of Fort Smith, AZ, Keisha Allen of Chicago, IL. and Taylor Ferrell of Memphis, TN; (2) sisters, Sabrina Ferrell and Kenyetta Ferrell-Winston (Troy) both of Chicago, IL; (17) grandchildren; (2) special aunts, Helen Wilson of St. Paul, MN and Lisa Waters of Heidelberg, MS; (1) great aunt, Bertha Hollins of Chicago, IL; (2) uncles, Clifford Ferrell and Demetrius; (2) good friends, Harold Reid and Michael Massey; and a host of nieces, nephews, favorite cousins, co-workers, associates, in-laws, and many friends.
Thursday, May 7, 2026
Irvin Jones
Irvin Jones, was born January 26, 1955 in Chicago, IL., to the parents of Ben Jones and Helen Elliott Lawrence.
Irvin was preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Helen Jones Lawrence.
Irvin is survived by; Fiancee, Annie Henley; children, Robin Tiller, Erica Jones, Marquel Peete, Darnell Stone (Shamlisha), Toni Stone; bonus children, Alidia Jackson and Jimmy Jackson (Kenisha); a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren; siblings, Laura Anderson, Doris Obrien (Carlton), Keith Jones, Carmen Melton, Darnardo Jones, Piper Lawrence; nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and family.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
William L. Johnson
William Johnson, 79, passed away on May 5, 2026, at Winston Medical Center in Louisville, Mississippi, and went home to be with the Lord. Born on September 21, 1946, William was raised in Noxapater, Mississippi, the son of Willard Alexander Johnson and Kathleen Lofton Kemp. He grew up with his brother, Johnny Johnson, enjoying a childhood filled with fishing and hunting alongside Noxapater Creek. As a young man, William was baptized at Noxapater Baptist Church. William treasured his years at Noxapater High School, where he formed lifelong friendships. A proud Noxapater Tiger, he often reminisced about his accomplishments in football and basketball, and he kept his letterman’s jacket as a cherished reminder of those days.
He attended Mississippi State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Entomology, a Master’s degree in Entomology and Wildlife Management, and completing PhD coursework in Entomology and Botany. William began his career conducting research aimed at eradicating boll weevils from cotton crops. He was an entrepreneur at heart; founding his own agriculture and crop consulting business in Mississippi and South Georgia, and eventually launching a pine straw supply business serving Mississippi and Alabama.
William never met a stranger. He loved conversation and found joy in connecting with people from all walks of life. His favorite stories often revolved around quail hunting with his beloved bird dogs, his garden, and adventures from his early days of dating Patti, his wife of 53 years. William was a member at First Baptist Church, Louisville.
He is survived by his wife, Patti Todd Johnson and his children: Michael (Sheila) Johnson, Emily (Guy) McClain, Julie Johnson, and Todd (Landrey) Johnson. He also leaves behind his grandchildren: Lane Johnson, Maggie Johnson, Madison (Hunter) Aycock, Meredith McClain, Hutch McClain, Kathleen Bess McClain, Tripp Johnson, Noble Johnson, and Anne Spencer Johnson; and one great-grandchild, Fletcher Aycock. He is also survived by his younger brother Johnny (Cheryl) Johnson, his nephews Chris Johnson and Brad (Jessica) Johnson.
William was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved mother-in-law, Annie Bess Todd.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 8, at Old Mars Hill Cemetery, 3100 Mars Hill Road, Philadelphia, Mississippi. The service will be officiated by Dr. Jimmy Porter and Rev. Tim Smith.
The family is thankful for a merciful God who loves His children all of their days and finds peace in the assurance that William is now in His presence.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Isla Vale Tabor
Born Sept. 24,1939, she was the youngest of five raised by their strong and loving mother Katie Mae Finkley. She grew up in the Whitehall community, enjoying the simple things like pond swimming, and playing in the fields with her brothers and sister. She attended and graduated from Louisville High School where she participated in the drama and Bible clubs. During the summer of 1955, she met the love her life Harry Bernard Tabor, Jr., and they married on June 17,1957, at Whitehall Church. Together they built a beautiful life – raising their four children on a foundation of love, faith and service to each other, their church and their community.
Vale was beloved among all those who knew her. With her striking auburn hair, twinkling eyes and kind smile, she exuded warmth to everyone she met and brought a positive energy to everything she did. She was virtuous, selfless and kind with an infectious playful spirit. She chose the challenging career of being a full-time mom and it was a job she relished. Vale made the Tabor house the home where kids and teens wanted to spend their free time, enjoying home-cooked meals and sage advice. She ran the carpools, served on the PTA, proudly and loudly supported her children from the stands and was the Girl Scout and Cub Scout troop leader everyone adored.
She was always up for anything - water skiing, harrowing rollercoasters or killing a snake. Also, she could outlast anyone in the garden or in a competitive game of cards and Scrabble where she was often the victor.
She equally cherished her role as grandmother to 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She was revered for hosting fun sleepovers and endless games of Chutes and Ladders, Go Fish, and tag. She was even spotted playing soccer with her youngest grandson wearing her housecoat. By all accounts, she was a fierce competitor and showed no mercy.
Outside of her family, she devoted her time to Whitehall Church, answering the call to teach Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, help with the annual bazaar and participate in various women’s groups and committees. Her life of service extended to various Louisville civic clubs including more than 45 years – along with her husband – with the Lion’s Club where she served in leadership roles and as president.
She is preceded in death by her mother, Katie Mae Finkley; brothers Earl, Douglas and Victor; and her sister Zenith Williamson. She is survived by her adoring husband of 69 years, Harry Bernard Tabor, Jr., and their four children and their spouses: Tammy and David Morgan; Tim and Tammie Tabor; Debbie and Kevin Arnett; and Terri and Matt Hickey. She will forever be cherished by her 11 grandchildren: Phillip Watson, Laura Kujawa, Anna Claire Morgan, Tyler Tabor, Taryn Jones, Andrew Arnett, Amanda Arnett, Matt Arnett, Stephen Arnett, John Phillip Arnett and Liam Hickey. She will also be fondly remembered by her 13 great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Saturday, May 2nd, at Whitehall Church, with Rev. Mike Dowd and Rev. Don Bishop officiating. Visitation will be Saturday from 1:30 P.M. until service time at the church. Interment will be in Whitehall Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Carol Stewart Moody
ZD Haynes
ZD, was born February 22, 1947, in Winston County Mississippi to the parents of Frank William Haynes and Estellar Holmes Haynes. ZD, was preceded in death by his parents, William and Estellar Haynes; son, Alvin M. Johnson; siblings, Jimmie Ruth, and Jim Henry.
ZD, is survived by his wife, Betty Haynes; sons, Cedric A. Haynes (Tanisha), and Marcos T. Ball (Carmelia); 8 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren; siblings, Hattie Pearl (AD), Annie Otis), Kay, Marilyn, Linda Pearl, Glenda Jean, Irene, Kenny (Anita), and Willie Frank (Emma); a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, cousins and other relatives and family.
Collar Lakeisha Wilson
Collar Lakeisha Wilson, 53, of Louisville, MS., passed on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at her home. Funeral Service will be Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 2 p.m., from Still Valley M. B. Church, 560 Armstrong St., Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Saturday, from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Louisville Memorial Cemetery. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.
Collar, was born February 26, 1973, to the parents of Willie Lee Davis and Linda Jean Wilson in Winston County Mississippi.
Collar, was preceded in death by her parents, Willie Lee Davis, Linda Jean Wilson and her step-father, Ronnie Harrington; siblings, Laneisha Harrington and Laronn Harrington.
Collar, is survived by her children, KeShonda Wilson and Frederick Parker (Jasmine) ; 8 grandchildren ; siblings, Tarita Slaughter (Maurice), Tehita Davis, Cameoda Burton (Ellis), Markeos Davis, Lautoria Johnson; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and other relatives and friends.
Joleen Marie Carter
Joleen, was born February 19, 1964 to the parents of Harold Hall and Pearlie Mae Riddle Hall, in Winston County Mississippi.
Joleen, was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Pearlie Mae; siblings, Francine Jones and Gwen Eichelberger.
Joleen, is survived by; Husband, Leslie Carter; her daughter, Ieshia S. Hall; grandchildren, Issac Cockrell, Imani Hall and Ivoree Cockrell; siblings, 4 brothers and 1 sister; aunt, nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and family.
Monday, April 27, 2026
Franklin Theratis Davenport
Franklin was born on September 7, 1956 in Louisville, Mississippi to Marie and James Davenport. He graduated from Louisville High School. He had numerous Musical Degrees from many different colleges. He play for several churches in the surrounding areas. He simply loved music. He also loved to read and spend time with his family. He was loved by his family and by many friends in the city of Decatur where he resided before his passing.
He was preceded in death by his parents and many siblings.
Franklin leaves behind his siblings, Renae Clay of Columbus, MS, Dixie Davenport, Paula Davenport, Deborah Mitchell (Henry), Melvin Banks, Ernette Banks, and Joshua Davenport (Kristan) all of Louisville, MS; and a host of nieces, nephews, three of which he treated like his own, Reva, Everett, and Kevin Clay; special cousins, Nikisha Calomese, Derrick Ashford, and Lavon Ashford, Jr.; a special friend, Wayne and many other cousins, in-laws, and friends.
Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Vickie Lajuan Mitchell-Hampton
Vickie, was born April 22, 1964 to the parents of Eddie Mitchell and Barbara Jean McQuiller Mitchell in Clay County Mississippi.Vickie, was preceded in death by her parents, Eddie B and Barbara McQuiller-Mitchell.
Vickie, is survived by her husband, Clifford James Hampton; Step Daughter, Asia Childress McFarland (Andrew); siblings, Andre McQuiller, Tracey Demar Mitchell, Sharon Hatcher and Rennita Lynn Mitchell; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and other relatives and family.
Tuesday, April 21, 2026
John W. “Johnny” Black
Johnny was born February 16, 1955, in Louisville, MS, to Bobby Lee and Janice Lynn White Black. He was a 1973 graduate of Winston Academy, and went on to Mississippi State University where he earned a business degree. He was a pilot for Sharp Construction Company for many years. He was also a property manager for his family’s business. He was a lifelong member of Louisville Presbyterian Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his grandparents, John C. and Sarah Elizabeth Power Black; and E. Edison and Mary Estelle Glenn White.
Johnny is survived by his wife, Kelley Palmer Black of Louisville; two sisters, Beth Black (Kerry) Edwards, and Rhee Black (Glynn) Hankins, both of Louisville; and two brothers, Mike (Debra) Black of Austin, TX, and Stefan (Lori) Black of Louisville, MS, and his nephews, Graham Black of Austin, TX, Sam Hankins of Starkville, MS, Calen Edwards of New Orleans, LA, and Curry Black of Louisville, MS.









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