Mildred Yarbrough Davenport

Mildred Yarbrough Davenport, 92, of Louisville, Mississippi, passed Saturday, January 18, 2025 at the Winston County Medical Center, Louisville, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 11 a.m., from Wesley United Methodist Church, 507 South Jones Ave., Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Friday 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.

She was born to the parents of Robert Earnest Yarbrough and Alma Haynes Yarbrough in Winston County Mississippi.

She was preceded in death by; husband, James Edmond Davenport; children, Safornia Knowles, John Eric Davenport, Johnnie B. Davenport, Mary Wells, James Davenport, Louis Triplett, David Davenport, Erlean Davenport, Wilean Morrow and Kenneth Davenport; siblings, Mary Greer, Robert Yarbrough, Marie Robinson, and Zackery Yarbrough.

She is survived by; children, Ernette Banks, Melvin S. Banks, Paula Davenport, Deborah (Henry) Mitchell, Joshua (Kristan) M. Davenport, Dixie Davenport, Rita Clay and Frankie Davenport; siblings, Franklin D. Yarbrough, Ernestine Haynes and Dean Jones; 20 grandchildren, and a host of great grands, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and other family and friends.

Willie Sue "Susie" Kelley

Willie Sue “Susie” Kelley, 92, passed away Monday, January 20, 2025, at her home in Noxapater, Mississippi, with her loving family at her side. Visitation will be Thursday, January 23 at Massey Funeral Home in Louisville, Mississippi, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Friday, January 24 at Hight Assembly of God Church in Noxapater with Bro. Edgar Reed and Bro. Tom Bentley officiating. Visitation will also be the day of the service at the church from 10 a.m. until service time. Interment will immediately follow the service in Hight Church Cemetery.

Susie was born in Noxapater on April 10, 1932. A devout Christian and a faithful prayer warrior, she was a lifetime member of Hight Assembly of God where she was active as a Sunday school teacher, in the women’s ministry, and taught in the Christ Ambassador program. Susie was an excellent cook and she enjoyed cooking for her family and others in need. She also enjoyed working in her vegetable garden growing food for her family and to share.

Susie is survived by her children: Betty Lynn Haggard Parker (Hank), Terry Wade Kelley (Gina), and Connie Sue McKinnion (Michael) all of Noxapater. One of her greatest joys was being “SueSue” to her grandchildren: Kharm Kelly (Gary), Tricy Beth Haggard, Adam Wade Kelley (Pam), Wesley Shane Kelley (April), John Wesley McKinnion (Candace Duran), and Erica McKinnion. She is also survived by nine great-grandchildren: Macy McAdory Holdiness (Lester), Gracy McAdory (Kenny Ray Williams), Alisa Chandler (Chance), Alexis Kelly (Andrew), Wesley Cole Kelley, Canyon Wade Kelley, Axel Wade Kelley, Lamar Swain, and Conner Ray McKinnion; as well as nine great-great-grandchildren: Kate Drury, Alexa Jane Holdiness, Liam Holdiness, Myla Klair Koon, Brody Lane Wesley McAdory, Bella Jane Williams, Carson Chandler, Easton Chandler, and Ella Kelley. Susie is preceded in death by her husband, Wesley Wade “Buddy” Kelley; great-grandson, Wesley McAdory; son-in-law, Jimmy Gale Haggard; her parents; and her siblings: Margie Bond, John “Buck” Reed, and Geraldine Russell.

Serving as pallbearers are Randy Kelley, Rodney Kelley, Tony Kelly, Larry Duran, and Dennis Reed. Donations in honor of our SueSue may be given to Hight Assembly of God Church, 2224 Hight-Moore Road, Noxapater, MS 39346 or to the 700 Club online at cbn.com.

Carlton S. Rowlen

Carlton Shelby Rowlen entered heaven into the loving arms of God at the age of 87 on January 17, 2025 at Sanctuary Hospice in Tupelo, MS. “Sonny” was born to Harvey Lester and Lubie Kilgo Rowlen on January 25, 1937 in Tunica, MS in his grandmother’s home. 

He graduated from Mathiston High School in 1956. Carlton’s early adulthood was spent serving in the National Guard assisting with civil unrest at Ole Miss in 1962. He worked at Futorian and enjoyed serving as a high school athletic referee for school districts. His supervisory roles and tenure at Flexsteel factory revealed a strong work ethic. He owned The Frame Shop in Eupora, MS and was widely solicited for his carpentry work and antique furniture restoration. His love for restoring antiques was a primary hobby and served as evidence of his strong convictions for finding the beauty and potential in everything and everyone. After he retired from Flexsteel, he was often referred to as the “hardest-working retiree.” If he ever rested, it was to watch MSU football, the Dallas Cowboys, or an old John Wayne western movie.

Throughout his life, Carlton was always known for helping and serving others. His mother loved to tell the story of the time in elementary school he saved his lunch money to fill his March of Dimes card. During his marriage with Anne, they became devout parishioners for Mathiston First Baptist Church. Their love for the church and surrounding community was demonstrated through daily acts of generosity. It was during this time Carlton’s convictions for ministering to everyone and obedience in sharing the gospel became a very important part of his life. His unwavering willingness and work ethic for creating, building, coordinating, and executing projects was a resolute example of his strong convictions for how a church should serve a community. His infinite faith and service can be found in the many stories from others of how he prayed with them during times of need. Carlton’s “rain-or-shine” weekly visits to deliver church bulletins and pray with people who were unable to attend church will remain a cornerstone for our memories. After marrying Bonnie, he continued to live his legacy and worked daily to ensure they were capitalizing on every opportunity to minister and serve the church and community. He could always be found at the church working on a project. Carlton’s immeasurable devotion to his family and love for Gregg was unconditional and he delighted in talking about his family. Carlton’s number one priority in every conversation with anyone he met was to make sure they understood the importance of accepting Christ and his favorite passage of scripture was the 23rd Psalm.

Funeral services will be held on Monday January 20, 2025 at 3:00 PM at Mathiston First Baptist Church in Mathiston, MS. Interment will follow the funeral service at Spring Valley Cemetery in Mathiston, MS. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the funeral service on Monday January 20, 2025 at Mathiston First Baptist Church in Mathiston, MS. Coleman Funeral Home of Ackerman, MS is in charge of all arrangements.

Carlton is survived by his wife Bonnie and his son Gregg (Jane) of Mathiston; step-son Barkley Neal of Boyle, two granddaughters Ashley Peeples (Craig) of Ackerman and Heather Rowlen (Kody Gilbert) of Mathiston; great grandchildren, Karlee Rowlen, Kayson Gilbert, and Khloe Gilbert; sister, Dorothy Jane Davidson, Florida; two brothers, Bobby Rowlen (Virginia) of Mathiston and Rodney Rowlen (Jo) of Adaton. He is preceded in death by his parents; nephews Steve and Les Rowlen; brother-n-law Hoyle Davidson; wife, Anne; sister, Joanne Perkins; and brother, H.L. Rowlen.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in memory of Carlton to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105, Sanctuary Hospice House 5159 West Main Street Tupelo, MS 38801, and/or Mathiston First Baptist Church 24901 MS Highway 15 Mathiston, MS 39752.

Dessie Mae Vandevender

Dessie Mae Vandevender, 93, passed away on January 14, 2025, at Neshoba General Hospital. Her funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 18 at 2:00 P.M. at Cockrell Funeral Home Chapel in Macon. Interment will follow in Union Ridge Cemetery near Noxapater. Visitation will begin one hour before the service time. Cockrell Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the service arrangements.

Dessie Mae Tanksley was born in the Noxapater, MS community on March 16, 1931, to the late James Elbert Tanksley and Lillie Mae Justice Tanksley. She attended school in Noxapater and later was a housewife until her children were grown. She then began working at a local fabric store in Macon, MS and quickly gained a reputation as an excellent seamstress. Dessie was a precious and caring person who dearly loved her children and grandchildren, all of whom felt blessed to have had her in their lives. She was a God-fearing woman who loved her Lord and, for many years, worshipped at the Noxubee Full Gospel Christian Center in Macon. Dessie loved keeping her mind active by solving jigsaw puzzles and writing poetry.

Dessie is preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Shorty and Lesley Tanksley and her grandson, Kevin Allen.

Dessie’s survivors include her daughters, Kay Vandevender Martin (Danny) and her children, Brandon (Lacy) Jones, Brandon’s daughter, Sara Beth Jones Fulton (Cameron) and their son, Casen Ryan Fulton; Joe Jones (Amanda) and their daughter, Maddie Grace; and Lucas Jones (Neely) and their son, Henry Joseph; her daughter, Sharon Vandevender Allen (Edward), and their daughter, Tabitha Cross (Jonathan), Tabitha’s daughter, Bailey Edwards, and son Cannon Edwards (Karissa), and a grandson, Jackson Allen; and one brother, Presley Tanksley.

Kenneth Dale Collins Jr.

Kenneth Dale Collins, Jr., 57, passed away Wednesday, December 25, 2024, at his home in Louisville, Mississippi. A memorial service honoring Dale will be 11 a.m. Saturday, January 18 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel in Louisville with Reverend Melvin Mordecai officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 10 a.m. until service time.

Dale was born January 13, 1967, to Kenneth Collins, Sr. and Marion Martin Collins in Jackson, Mississippi. He attended Antioch Baptist Church in Louisville. For approximately 10 years, Dale has worked as a paint operator at Taylor Machine Works. He loved to fish and he enjoyed watching football and NASCAR. Most of all, he loved his family and friends and enjoyed spending time with them.

Dale is survived by his wife, Tracy Brannon Collins; and two sons, Chase Collins and Caden Collins all of Louisville. He also leaves behind his uncle, Ronnie Collins; and aunts, Jessie Faye (Woody) Woodiel; Donna (Pete) Crowell; and Georgette (Steve) Harmon; as well as nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. He is preceded in death by his son, Cody Collins; his parents; and his brother, Douglas Ray Collins.

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.

James Alan “Jimmy” Woodward

James Alan “Jimmy” Woodward, born October 27, 1954, in Columbus, Mississippi, passed away surrounded by his loved ones on January 14, 2025. He was the son of the late George and Mavis Rickman Woodward. Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Friday, January 17 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel in Louisville, Mississippi, with the Reverend Dr. Stacey Parvin officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 2 p.m. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will immediately follow the service in Betheden Cemetery.

Jimmy graduated from Louisville High School in 1972 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture from Mississippi State University in 1976. Over the course of his career, he held various positions with the United States government and retired as a rural letter mail carrier with the United States Postal Service.

A man of deep faith, Jimmy was a devoted member of Betheden Lutheran Church. He dedicated much of his time to serving others through his work with the Salt and Light Ministry, where he ministered to prisoners and shared his unwavering belief in hope and redemption.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Larry Woodward; brother-in-law, Ron Yarbrough; his beloved aunt, Lois Pennington; and his mother-in-law, Lynda Yarbrough.

He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Tara Woodward; his sons, Matt (Kristin) Woodward and Andrew (Maci) Woodward; and five cherished grandchildren: William Woodward, Hudson Woodward, Harper Woodward, Casey Woodward, and James Weston Woodward. He also leaves behind his father-in-law, Jim Yarbrough; sisters-in-law, Margaret Woodward and Ginny (Patrick) Deliman; brother-in-law, Jamie Yarbrough; and numerous nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly.

Jimmy’s life was marked by devotion to family, faith, and community. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.

Serving as pallbearers are Pat Deliman, Corey Hancock, Stephen Mercer, and Pat Peterson. Memorials in honor Jimmy may be given to Betheden Lutheran Church, P. O. Box 508, Louisville, MS 39339.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Gentiva Hospice especially Melissa Flake and Jeri Wooten.

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.

Charles W. “Birddog” Edwards

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charles W. “Birddog” Edwards, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, on January 12, 2025.

Born on February 25, 1952, to Will and Nell Edwards, Charles grew up embodying the values of faith, hard work, and kindness. He carried these qualities throughout his life, leaving an indelible mark on everyone he met.

As a devoted father to his six children—Danny, Renea, Carolyn, Charles Michael, Priscilla and Jacob—Charles showed the unconditional love that God calls us to share. His children were his greatest joy, and he poured his heart into guiding, supporting, and loving them.

Charles was known for his tireless dedication to helping others. Whether working hard to provide for his family or lending a hand to a stranger in need, he lived a life of service and generosity. He was a man who would give the shirt off his back without hesitation, reflecting his selfless and compassionate spirit. He was a God fearing Christian man.

His impact extended far beyond his family. Charles’ warmth and integrity touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. To know him was to experience genuine kindness and steadfast love.

Funeral services will be held at Ackerman Church of God in Ackerman, MS on Thursday, January 16, 2025 at 2:00 PM with Bishop Kelvin Copeland and Rev. Brian Wellsofficiating. Burial will follow at Enon Cemetery in Ackerman, MS. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS, as well as one hour prior to service time from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM at Ackerman Church of God in Ackerman, MS.

Charles is survived by his three sons, Danny Edwards of Caledonia, MS, Charles Michael Edwards (Angel) and Jacob Edwards both of Ackerman, MS; his three daughters, Renea Haimes, Carolyn Edwards and Priscilla Huffman (Justin) all of Ackerman, MS; and one sister, Cherrie Salley (Charles) of Ackerman, MS. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren with another great-grandchild on the way.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Will and Nell Edwards; his brother, Lloyd Edwards; his sister, Carolyn Jones; and his grandson, Dylan Haimes.

Memorials may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Ackerman Church of God.

Bobby Rodreguis Carter

Bobby Rodreguis Carter, 45, of Walnut, Mississippi, formerly of Louisville, MS., passed on Thursday, January 9, 2025 at the University of Alabama-Birmingham, Birmingham, AL. Funeral Service will be Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., from Little Calvary M. B. Church, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m., from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. 

Bobby was born to the parents of Bobby Ray Carter and Ira Dean Dodd, on December 24, 1979 in Winston County Mississippi.

He is survived by his wife, Kimberly Peeples Carter; step-daughter, Adriann Peeples; step-granddaughters,  Shia Peeples and Christian Hoyle; siblings, John (Angel) Dodd and Evelyn (Ronnie Spears) Dodd; nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and other relatives and friends.

Mrs. Margaret Dianne Parks

Margaret Lee Parks, age 77, of Louisville, Mississippi, passed away peacefully at home, January 13, 2025. A memorial service will be held Friday, January 17, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at Bethel Baptist Church, with Rev. Charles Rook officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until service time at the church. Interment will be at Perkinsville Hills Cemetery. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 

 She was born December 18, 1947, to Ulrich and Bonnie Lee, in Macon, Mississippi. A graduate of Noxubee County High School, Margaret furthered her education at East Mississippi Community College, the University of West Alabama, and Mississippi State University. For 37 years Margaret worked at Georgia Pacific Resin Plant in Louisville, where she became a beloved figure. She considered her co-workers to be family. Her dedication to her work and the deep relationships she built there were a testament to her caring nature. 

 Margaret was a faithful and devoted member of Bethel Baptist Church for more than 50 years. Her strong faith and commitment to her church family were central to her life, and she found great joy in serving and supporting her community through her church. 

 Margaret left behind her husband of 56 years, Donald Parks, her children, Jennifer (Ritchie) Hudspeth of Madison, MS; Chad (Natalie) Parks of Louisville, MS and Jacey Bullock of Enterprise, MS. She was also the proud grandmother of six grandchildren, Will (Shelby), Sara, Ethan, and Bonnie Hudspeth; Madeline (Taylor) Warren; and Parks Bullock, as well as 5 great grandchildren, Anna, Katie, and Matthew Hudspeth; and Wyatt and Addy Hudspeth and one brother, Doug Lee of Macon, MS. Margaret’s love for her family knew no bounds, and she cherished each of them deeply. 

 Margaret is preceded in death by her parents, Ulrich and Bonnie Lee, and her brother, David Lee all of Mashulaville, MS and her beloved daughter, Autumn Lee Parks. 

 Margaret’s legacy of love, compassion, faith, and devotion will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and church community. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

 Pallbearers will be Ritchie Hudspeth, Will Hudspeth, Ethan Hudspeth, Parks Bullock, Ryan Parks, Cannon Parks. 

Mary Nell Young Higginbotham

Mary Nell Young Higginbotham, 84, passed away with her loving family at her side on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at the Noxubee County Nursing Home in Macon, Mississippi. Visitation will be Thursday, January 16, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Massey Funeral Home in Louisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, January 17, in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Glynn Barker and Bro. Jerry Lundy officiating. Interment will immediately follow the service in Mashulaville Cemetery in Macon with Bro. Glynn Barker officiating.

Nell was born December 21, 1940, to Ransom and Tennie Vaughn Young in Kemper County, Mississippi. She was a member of Mashulaville Baptist Church. Nell had a passion for quilting and was an excellent seamstress. She also enjoyed gardening and she was a member of the Gideons Ladies Auxiliary of Kemper County. Nell dearly loved her family and she especially enjoyed visits from her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Nell is survived by two daughters, Vickie Richardson and husband, Doug, of Louisville; and Margie H. Ronyak of Macon; and son, Jimmy Higginbotham and wife, Nancy, of the Nanih Waiya community. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Elsie Parny; and her brother-in-law, Charles Higginbotham and wife, Bettye. One of her greatest joys was being “Maw Maw” to her four grandchildren: Dennis (Jessie) Ronyak, Courtney (Ben) Clark, Karla Higginbotham and Ashley Higginbotham, and four great-grandchildren: Hartley Richardson, Lux Clark, Garry Ronyak, and Wrenley Clark. She is preceded in death by her husband, George Higginbotham; son, George Dennis Higginbotham; parents; son-in-law, Garry Ronyak; and her siblings, Grady Young, Ransom Young, Jr., Ruby Jackson, Christine White, Addie Lee White, and Hattie Trosper.

Serving as pallbearers will be Carl Gilbert, David Hemphill, Eugene Hemphill, Billy Higginbotham, William Shepheard, Ransom “Dinky” Young. Honorary pallbearers are Danny Hemphill, Randy Hemphill, James Hemphill, Michael Hemphill, and Larry Higginbotham. Memorial contributions in honor of Ms. Nell may be given to Kemper County Gideon Camp, P. O. Box 650, DeKalb, MS 39328.

Christine Gatheright

Christine Gatheright, 94, of Ackerman, MS. passed on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at the Starkville Manor Nursing Home, Starkville, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 11 a.m., from Beck Funeral Home, Louisville, MS. Visitation will be Friday from 4 until 6 p.m. from the Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Big Jerusalem Church Cemetery, Ackerman, MS. Beck Funeral Home of Louisville in charge of arrangements.

Nancy Jean Robertson

Mrs. Nancy Jean Robertson, 95, passed away on Friday, January 10, 2025, at her home in Louisville. Nancy was born on July 26, 1929, in Winston County, to Raymond Wallace Triplett and Willie Rose Johnson Triplett. She was a homemaker and a member of Evergreen Baptist Church. Nancy was an excellent cook and an immaculate homemaker. Her husband, Gene, was in the pipeline business and she and her children traveled with him all over the country.

 She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Gene Robertson; a daughter, Martha Louise White; a sister, Louise Wilburn; and two brothers, Billy Earl Triplett and Raymond Wallace “Bud” Triplett, Jr. 

 She is survived by two daughters, Margaret Shelton and Norma Seth, both of Louisville; two sons, John Thomas Robertson of Nesbit, MS, and James Henry Robertson of Orlando, FL; a half-sister, Mary Ann (Johnny) Parkes of Louisville; five grandchildren, Scott (Dawn) White, Kim Jordan, Jamie Maroney, Shelby (Trever) Muccillo, and Molly (Daylen) Tapp; and three great grandchildren, Dalen White, Halle Robertsons, and Knox Muccillo.

  A private family memorial service will be held at a later date. 

 Memorials in Nancy’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice. 

Lynda Rogers McHann

Lynda Rogers McHann, 77, passed away with her loving family by her side on Friday, January 10, 2025. Funeral services will be 12 p.m. Tuesday, January 14 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel in Louisville, Mississippi, with Reverends John Nelson and Trevor Fulgham officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will immediately follow the service in Craig Springs Cemetery in Oktibbeha County.

Lynda was born April 8, 1948, to Billie and Mauvelene Goodin Rogers in the Nanih Waiya Community of Winston County. She was an active member of Longview Baptist Church. For more than 40 years, she taught Sunday School and was always willing to help with Vacation Bible School. She also enjoyed reading and studying her Bible every day. Lynda, along with her husband Odie, owned a country store in Sessums for more than 10 years; later she worked for Aspen Bay Candle Company in Starkville. She enjoyed working in her flowers; she also enjoyed gardening, especially growing tomatoes; and she was an excellent seamstress. She dearly loved her family and enjoyed being able to keep her grandchildren as they grew up.

Lynda is survived by her husband of almost 57 years, Odie McHann; and her children: Richard (Tonya) McHann, Angie (Scott) Ruth all of Starkville; and Tammy (Shane) Orrick of Columbus, Mississippi. One of her greatest joys was being “Granny” to her seven grandchildren: Chris (Brittaney) McHann, Josh (Anniston) McHann, Jason (Cheyenne) Ruth, Erin Ruth, Jackson Ruth, Abby (Lane) Johnson, and Braden Orrick; as well as seven great-grandchildren: Emery Rose, Braxton, Ryiot, Brayzleigh, Riggens, Grayson, and Cade. She also leaves behind her siblings: Billy Wayne (Carolyn) Rogers, Keith (Kathy) Rogers, and Marsha (Roy) Roeland; in addition to many loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents.

Serving as pallbearers are Chris McHann, Josh McHann, Jason Ruth, Jackson Ruth, Braden Orrick, and Lane Johnson. Memorials in honor of Lynda may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online at stjude.org.

Mr. William Alton "Bill" Easterling

Mr. William Alton "Bill" Easterling, 82, passed away on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at the Veterans Administration Nursing Home in Kosciusko, MS.   Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time at Porter Funeral Home.

Ruby G. Reid

Ruby Gordon Reid of Ackerman, MS, passed away on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at Choctaw County Regional Medical Center in Ackerman, MS. Ruby was born on February 20, 1952, in Louisville, MS, to Owen Gordon, Sr. and Doris Zane (Kennedy) Gordon. She was 72 years old. Ruby was a Banker and a member of Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church near McCool, MS.

Funeral services will be held at Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church near McCool, MS on Monday, January 13, 2025 at 3:00 PM. Burial will follow at Mt. Zion Cemetery near McCool, MS. Visitation will be held prior to service time on Monday, January 13, 2025 from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS.

Ruby is survived by her husband, Ronnie Reid of Ackerman, MS; her 3 daughters, Andrea Eaves of Sturgis, MS, Holli Mitchell of Pontotoc, MS, and Allison Riley of Starkville, MS; her 4 brothers, Owen Gordon, Jr. (Marie) of McCool, MS, James Gordon (Jan) of Noxapater, MS, Ralph Gordon (Junicha) of McCool, MS, and Robert Gordon (Donna) of Collierville, TN; and her 2 sisters, Brenda Cagle (Glenn) of McCool, MS and Jennifer Kilgore (Steve) of Ackerman, MS. She is also survived by her 7 grandchildren, Matt Moss (Whitney) of Sturgis, MS, Jenni Smith (Ben) of Hattiesburg, MS, Brianne Byrd (Brandon) of Sherman, MS, Cody Landrum (Nikkie) of Louisville, MS, Miracle Riley of Starkville, MS, Marleigh Oswalt of Atlanta, GA, and Abbi Oswalt of Jacksonville, FL.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Owen Gordon, Sr. and Doris Zane (Kennedy) Gordon; and a grandson, Jaylin Reid.

Memorials may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church.

“When peace like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll. Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say. It is well, it is well, with my soul.”

Dee Luke Wright

Mr. Dee Luke Wright, 77, passed away on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, January 9th, at First Methodist Church, with Rev. Mike Childs and Rev. Damon Williams officiating. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. on Wednesday at Porter Funeral Home. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Dee Luke was born August 31, 1947, in Kemper County, MS. He graduated from Lynville High School and attended East Mississippi Community College where he played basketball. In 1967 he began his 57 year career at K&W Auto and Appliance Co. Dee Luke was very active in the community, having served on the board of directors and served as president for the Winston County Chamber of Commerce, the Louisville/Winston County Economic Development Board and the Louisville Rotary Club, where he held perfect attendance for 40 years and was a Paul Harris Fellow. Dee Luke also served on the board of directors for the Winston Medical Foundation, Winston Academy, and Sunburst Bank. He led K&W Auto and Appliance Co. to being recognized as the Louisville Retailer of the Year. He was a volunteer fireman, and served in the Mississippi National Guard for 10 years. Dee Luke was a faithful and very active member of First Methodist church, were he held many leadership positions, including chairmen of the finance committee and the usher committee.

As an avid Mississippi State University fan, Dee Luke and his family attended nearly every sporting event at MSU. Above all, he was affectionately known to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren as “Papa Dee.” He loved them deeply and counted his time spent with his family as his greatest accomplishment and source of ultimate fulfillment.

Dee was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil Lee and Ercelle Luke Wright; and his sisters, Mae Brewer, Jo Pigott, and June Wright.

He is survived by his wife, Faye Stovall Wright; a daughter, Sandra (Wilson) Webb, and a son, Greg (Robin) Wright, both of Louisville; a sister, Faye (Marcus) Wilson of Dekalb, MS; four grandchildren, Avery (Garrett) Bizzell, Logan Webb, Brantlee Wright, and Bryson Wright; and two great grandchildren, John Webb Bizzell and Lucy Wright Bizzell.

Pallbearers will be Logan Webb, Brantlee Wright, Bryson Wright, Garrett Bizzell, Mark Luke, and Joe York. Honorary pallbearers will be Robby Stovall, Randy Stovall, Don Stovall, Tommie Jefcoat, Dickie Caperton, Hap Hickman, Hal Overstreet, Wade Hailey, Paul R. Eaves, and Ralph Goss.

Memorials in Dee Luke’s memory may be made to First Methodist Church, P. O. Box 523, Louisville, MS, 39339.

Lera Jean Coleman Crawford McCarthy

Lera Jean Coleman Crawford McCarthy, 88, left this earthly home to be with her Lord and Savior on December 26, 2024. Visitation will be 1:00 p.m. January 8, 2025, at Resurrection Catholic Church, 259 Miramar Beach Drive, Miramar Beach, Florida where memorial services will be held. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, January 11 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel in Louisville, Mississippi. Visitation will be the day of the service at Massey Funeral Home from 10:30 a.m. until service time. Graveside services and interment will be 11 a.m. on Monday, January 13, 2025, at Lakewood Memorial Park Cemetery, 6110 Clinton Boulevard, Jackson, Mississippi, Section 19, Lot 577, 2nd SE corner.

Jean was born to Estelle Richards Coleman and Bilbo Coleman on March 4, 1936, in Oktibbeha County, Mississippi. She graduated from Sturgis High School at the top of her class and chose to go to Greenwood Leflore Nursing School in Greenwood, Mississippi. After becoming a nurse, Jean was employed by the Veterans Administration Hospital in Jackson. There she continued her education throughout her more than 40 years of employment, earning many degrees and awards. During the Vietnam War, she joined the Mississippi Air National Guard as a flight nurse transporting wounded veterans from overseas.

After retiring from the VA, she moved to Miramar Beach, Florida, where she became very active in seeing to the grounds of her church. She worked at the church garden up until two months before her death. She was a Master Gardner and Daylilies were her favorite flower.

Jean is survived by her son, Guy Crawford; daughters-in-law, Robin Crawford and Meredith Beasley; stepdaughter, Billie MacDonald and Bill’s children. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Dylan Crawford, Devon Crawford, Gracie Crawford, Melissa Crawford; and great-grands, Penny June and Ivy Jane. Jean is also survived by her brother, Travis Coleman and his wife, Martha; sister, Peggy Wallace; sister-in-law, Diane Coleman; many nieces and nephews and their extended families.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Bernard Crawford; son, Ben Crawford; grandson, Olen Crawford; stepson, Jimmy Crawford and Jimmy’s son; husband, Bill McCarthy; Bill’s daughter, Mary; sister, Kate Coleman Brunt Hood; brother, Ronald D. Coleman; nephew, Stacy Brunt; brothers-in-law, Billy Brunt, Jim Hood and

Kenneth Clyde Wallace.

Hershel Elliott Rogers

Hershel Rogers, age 84, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at his residence in Louisville, Mississippi.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Sunday, January 5 in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel in Louisville, Mississippi, with Reverend Jerry Lundy officiating. Visitation will be the day of the service from 1:00 p.m. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will immediately follow the service in Plattsburg Cemetery in Noxapater, Mississippi.

Hershel was born August 15, 1940, to Quinton and Dwight Kemp Rogers in Winston County. He was a member of Harmony Baptist Church. Hershel was an avid reader and fisherman. He enjoyed spending time with his family.

Hershel is survived by his daughter, Bettie Lewis (David) of Louisville. One of his greatest joys was being “Grand Paw” to his grandson Chad Lewis. He also leaves behind his sister, Becky Wright (Billly) of Starkville, Mississippi, his brother, Ronald Dale Rogers of Vicksburg, Mississippi, his sister-in-law, Helen Rogers, and a host of nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by wife Irene Rogers; his parents; and his brother, Wendell Rogers.

Serving as pallbearers are Chad Lewis, Austin Truhett, and Drew Jones.

John Lewis Loving

 

John Lewis Loving, 70, of Louisville, MS., passed on Monday, December 30, 2024 at his home. A memorial service will be conducted at a later date by the Family. 

John is survived by;  children, Tameka (Antawan) Holmes and Johnny Maurice Loving; grandchildren, Ambrielle Holmes, Joshua Holmes and Alexander Holmes; siblings, aunt, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Donny Burkes Todd

Donny Burkes Todd, 78, passed peacefully on to his eternal home on Wednesday, January 1, 2025 Donny was born on November 24, 1946, to Howard Lamar and Mary Evon Todd in Louisville, MS. As a teen in Louisville, Donny excelled in sports, particularly basketball. Devoting much time and effort to this passion, he made lifelong friends out of countless teammates and coaches. Long after he hung up his basketball high-tops, he continued to be an avid sports fan and had a photographic memory for sports statistics that led to innumerable earnest conversations with friends and family about his favorite topic, the Mississippi State Bulldogs. For much of his life, Donny was a loyal Bulldog fan who, without fail, always optimistically proclaimed “they have real potential this year.” Through countless tailgates and football and basketball games with precious friends and family, he instilled this love for the Bulldogs into his girls who both hold degrees from his beloved university.

Donny graduated from Louisville High School in 1965. Following his graduation from East Central Junior College in 1967, he matriculated to Mississippi State University where he developed his passion for Bulldog athletics. After completing his academic career, he had the opportunity to work out west “on the pipeline” and always spoke fondly of the people he met and the adventures he had in what he called “the most beautiful” place he had ever been. He met the love of his life, Kay Arnett, also a Louisville native, and they married at Poplar Flat Baptist Church on November 4, 1972. Donny went to work at Taylor Machine Works where he would remain a decades-long steadfast employee until his retirement in July of 2017. He served his country faithfully as a National Guardsman and Reserve officer and was deployed to active service during Desert Storm where he spent months with his unit in Fort Hood, TX, away from his adoring family.

As passionate as he was about watching and talking about sports and spending time with his much-loved girls, Donny’s love for Jesus and the church was forefront. A devout Christian, he made sure to have his family present every time the church doors were open. He served many years as a deacon and Sunday school teacher at South Louisville Baptist Church where he raised his family. In later years, he worshipped and also served leadership roles at Poplar Flat Baptist Church. He spent a lot of his free time studying God’s Word preparing his Sunday school lessons and always gave the most heartfelt, genuine prayers whether in public or privately with his beloved family. His love for the church and passion for the Gospel touched many lives.

A faithful and devoted husband for 52 years, Donny leaves behind his sweetheart, Kay Arnett Todd (Ridgeland, MS). He was the dearest and most patient “girl dad” to his daughters, Dr. Misty Sharp (Jason) of Columbus, MS, and Ginger Gorman (Shane) of Madison, MS. After raising two independent and strong-willed daughters, Donny was immensely proud of his five precious grandsons, Todd and Parker Sharp and Griffin, Grant, and Tanner Gorman. He was a supportive and loving father and grandfather, and they are all devastated at the loss of their mentor and patriarch. Additional survivors include his siblings, Bobby Todd (the late Jo Helen) of Louisville, Cindy Todd and Karey Todd, both of Philadelphia and his siblings-in-law, Dr. William Arnett (Delores) of Madison, Wayne Arnett of Brandon, and Carolyn Varner (Robert) of Madison as well as a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends. His daughters are eternally grateful for the compassion, friendship, and care selflessly given to their father by their Uncle William during the last two years of his life. Donny is preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Mary Evon Todd and sister-in-law, Jo Helen Todd.

Visitation will be from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday, January 3 at Massey Funeral Home. There will also be a visitation the day of the service at the church from 10 a.m. until service time. A going-home celebration will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 4 at Poplar Flat Baptist Church in Louisville.