Obituaries
Welton Dewitt Cothern
Welton Dewitt Cothern was born July 31st, 1934. He was the son of the late Herman William Cothern and Texie Adell Cothern. He leaves behind his loving wife Mearl Boyd Cothern, son Devon, daughters: Melinda, Millie and daughter Renee (predeceased), his sisters Judy Cothern Dickerson and predeceased by sister Joyce Rayborn and brother Joe Cothern, four grandchildren Aaron (predeceased), Adam, Nataly, Katie and 12 great-grandchildren and 5 great, great grandchildren.
Welton married his beautiful childhood sweetheart Mearl Boyd in 1952 and had a lifelong loving marriage of 72 years. He was a loving husband and wonderful father and grandfather. He taught his grandsons to hunt and fish. He loved the outdoors and the many wonders it had. He was a skillful hunter and fisherman, master carpenter and craftsman. He built houses, custom cabinetry, and furniture, crafted beautiful vases of wood, and made custom jewelry. But that's not all; he wrote many songs and had a beautiful voice. He would sing at church with Mearl and Renee and wrote his own love song "Blue Eyes" for Mearl in 2005 while he worked in South Carolina about how much he loved her and missed her.
Welton & Mearl did everything over their 72-year marriage. They enjoyed traveling all over the country. Together, they enjoyed friends and family, and everyone was always welcome in their home. He was especially fond of his church and all members. When folks were down and needed prayer, Welton & Mearl were always there for them. Welton loved Jesus with all his heart and devoted his life to "Our Lord and Savior"
A little more about Welton that you might not know, when Welton graduated high school in 1952, he was the star center on the high school basketball team and Mississippi State University in Hattiesburg took interest in him and awarded a full scholarship to play basketball, but Welton decided to join the Marine Corp instead. Welton served for one year and had to leave the Corp with a hardship discharge due to his father dying in a terrible automobile crash to look after his family. Welton first went to work for the Army Corp of Engineers as a Boiler Fireman but saw no growth opportunity and decided to leave. Soon after, Welton formed his own company and went on to build several houses. Mearl and Welton found an old house in Tylertown, MS and he renovated the whole house himself. Shortly after, he joined the Carpenters Union Local 1098 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He went on to build bridges and many large structures. He rose in the ranks to Project Superintendent and went on to build 22 Hollow Bridges on Interstate I-55. He also went on to manage the construction of a pickle factory in Wiggins, MS and a chemical plant where he was the Superintendent of Construction. Then one day, his good friend, Jack Sweeden called him shortly after the Three Mile Island Nuclear accident to help manage the melting reactor and the cool down of the containment building. He was named the Project Engineer over the decontamination and clean-up effort of the nuclear site. He and Jack were partners and there wasn't anything they couldn't accomplish together. Welton had a thirst for learning and continued his education and took many courses over the years. He accumulated enough credits through the New York State University to earn his bachelor’s degree in construction management in
- His start in the nuclear industry led him to work across the country at 11 nuclear power plants and numerous fossil fueled power plants where he was either the Superintendent or Project Manager.
I first met Welton in 1979 at the Mohave Generating Station in Laughlin, NV just across from Bullhead City, AZ and the Colorado River. I was the boiler engineer, and he was Superintendent over all plant modifications. We soon became close friends. He was my mentor, and I learned more from him than all my education combined. I watched and learned how he handled the men reporting to him and the respect they all had for him. His knowledge and people skills were second to none. We later worked together on several nuclear projects, and we lived together much of that time. My children adored him and his southern style cooking. Welton was a big guy standing 6'- 2" and 235 pounds very intimidating if you didn't know him. He'd never round-up and say he was 6'- 3". I'd tease him and say "yeah, but you're made of twisted steel and sex appeal", he'd just laugh.
Then one day, while he and Mearl were traveling from the St. Lucie Nuclear plant back to their home driving on interstate 10, at mile marker 19, just after 1am in the morning, he drove into the deepest fog; however, it was smoke from an illegal burning in the adjacent fields that settled over the interstate. They were part of the largest interstate wreck in history, and he almost lost his life, but unfortunately, ended his working career and had to go out on disability at the age of 55, The Lord was watching over him and Mearl that night as they both survived the crash, but changed their lives forever. The Lord looked after him and Mearl for the rest of their lives and gave him 50 years.
I loved that man with all my heart, and we were the closest of friends anyone could possibly be. Over 46 years we enjoyed each other's company and he and Mearl treated me like a son. I love all his family as my own. I will miss him terribly and will love him forever. In his final days, he never lost his sense of humor, although under Hospice Care, he told Mear one night while lying in bed, he said "Baby, I'm not leaving you yet, but I'll give you a two-week notice".
Lastly, if you have ever watched the movie 'Gladiator at the very end after Maximus died, his friend leaned over his grave and held a carved trinket in his hand that Maximus made for his son and said to his good friend, (this is where I hold up the ring Welton made for me) "I’ll see you again, just not yet.”
Services to be announced shortly
Daniel Spear
Today we celebrate the life of a remarkable man who touched the hearts of many. He was a devoted husband, a cherished son, a beloved brother, and an adored uncle.
Preceded in death by his loving wife, Diane W. Spear, his mother Beverly, and his father Harry Luther Spear, he is now reunited with them in peace. He was also preceded by his brother, Kenneth Lee Spear, and his sister, Judith Spear Pichon.
He leaves behind a large and loving family who will forever treasure the memories they shared. Two sisters, Kathryn Spear (James skinner) and Cheryl Hughes (Danny Hughes), and three brothers, , Johnathan Spear (Brittany Spear), James Muir and Paul Muir (Renee Muir), mourn his passing. He was also a proud uncle to twenty-five nieces and nephews, and a great-uncle to twenty-one great-nieces and nephews. He was a man who found joy in the simple pleasures of life.
Hunting and fishing were his passions, and he spent many serene hours in nature, appreciating the beauty of the world around him. He also had a deep love for coin collecting, which was a testament to his appreciation for history and the stories behind each piece. He will be loved and missed by many, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
As we remember him today, let us celebrate the love and joy he brought into our lives and carry forward his legacy of kindness and enthusiasm for life.
Geraldine Freeman Byrd
The funeral service for Geraldine Freeman Byrd will be 2:30 p.m., Saturday, March 1, at Riverwood Family, with burial in Riverwood Memorial Park. Visitation is from 12:30 p.m. until the time of the service.
Mrs. Byrd, 84, of Brookhaven, passed from this life February 23, 2025, at her residence with her family by her side. She was born in Richton, MS, on January 19, 1941, to Wallace Lowery Freeman and Lois Summers Freeman. She was a graduate of Sand Hill High School, Class of 1959.
Mrs. Byrd was a dedicated and loving wife, married to C.H. Byrd for 53 years until his death in 2012, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. First and foremost, she loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Mrs. Byrd was a member of Northview Baptist Church in Brookhaven for 35 years.
She was a true example of what a Christian woman should be. She taught us all how we should walk and talk as a Christian should according to God’s Word. Mama was a quiet and simple lady. She didn’t require fancy things. She loved her family, friends, and church family. She loved to sew, quilt and tend to her flowers until she was no longer able to.
She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.
She is preceded in death by her husband, C.H. Byrd; parents, Wallace and Lois Freeman; sister, Barbara Dykes; and nephew, Dana Walley.
Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Kelly Byrd (Roni), April Williford (Joey), Maye Sullivan (Bill), June Travis (Chris), and Stephen Byrd (Melanie); brothers, Jerry Freeman (Lois), Evon Freeman (Grace), Don Freeman (Deborah), Roger Dale Dykes; sister, Hazel Walley; eight grandchildren, Ashley Herring, Tyler Williford, Kristina Stinson, Joshua Sullivan, Austin Travis, Canon Travis, Blakeney Byrd, and Gary Byrd; 13 great grandchildren, and a host of other loving family members and friends. She is also survived by her caretaker, Sondra Smith, and her friends and nieces, Imogene Galloway and Mary Lee Byrd.
The family extends appreciation to Arden Hospice.
Bobby Ray Martin
A celebration of life will be held for Bobby Ray Martin Noon, Wednesday, February 26, at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation is from 5-8 p.m., Tuesday, February 25 at Riverwood Family and will resume from 11 a.m. until the time of service at Mt. Moriah.
Mr. Martin, 78, of Bogue Chitto, died February 23, 2025, at Beacham Memorial Hospital in Magnolia, MS. He was born in Kelly, LA, September 27, 1946, to Howard L. Martin and Maggie L. Sanderford Martin. Mr. Martin was a member of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church. He was a machinist by trade and enjoyed collecting tools, whether new or anything he found at a good garage sale. He also liked collecting antiques.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Ellen Cox Martin; his parents; brothers, William H. Martin, Larry G. Martin, and Jerry W. Martin; sister, Jackie M. Tucker; grandson, Casey C. Coghlan and nephew, Brian Martin.
Those left to cherish his memory are his children, James D. Martin (Julie), Virgil H. Martin (Brenda), Dehna Martin Maxie (Shannon); sister, Kathy Martin Darnell; four grandchildren, Kristen M. Duplichain, Devan W. Kent, Bridget L. Martin, and Lauren G. Coghlan; and five great grandchildren, Braceigh Case, Brooks Kent, Stella Duplichain, Ellis Kent, and Campbell Kent. He is also survived by a host of other loving family members and friends.
Winifred Allen Hamilton
A celebration of life will be held for Winifred Allen Hamilton 11:30 a.m., Thursday, February 27, at Bethel Temple Pentecostal Church with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation is from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service.
Mrs. Hamilton, 90, of Brookhaven, went home to be with the Lord on February 23. 2025, in her home surrounded by her family. She was born in Lincoln County on October 20, 1934, to the late Fred Allen and Myrtis martin Allen.
Winifred loved her Lord and Savior and was a devoted member of Bethel Temple Pentecostal Church for 55 years, where she took care of the church books for roughly 50 of those years.
“MawMaw Ped” loved her grandkids, they brought great joy to her life. She had a passion for cooking and made the absolute best chicken & dumplings and biscuits.
For 47 years she worked out of her home in her beauty shop, “Ideal Beauty Shop”, where she loved spending time with her customers, witnessing and sharing the love of Jesus with them.
She is preceded in death by her husband of 68 ½ years, J.J.; her parents; sister, Belva Allen Sandifer; brother, Carroll Allen; and sisters-in-law, Janet Smith and Judy Hamilton; brothers-in-law, Buddy Sandifer, Curtis Smith, Butch Hamilton, and Hubert Hamilton.
Those left to cherish her memory are her son, Mike Hamilton (Connie); grandson, Allen Hamilton (Desi); great granddaughters, Makayla Wicker (Daniel), Hannah Chapman (Thomas, Jr.); two great great grandkids, Willa Grace Chapman and Floyd Allen Wicker; two sisters-in-law, Diann Allen and Nell Hamilton; special friends and caregivers, Renee Dunaway, Sondra Smith, and Sandra Hebert, along with the nurses at Arden.
Helen Louise Rushing
The funeral service for Helen Louise Rushing will be at 11 a.m., Friday, February 28, at Riverwood Family. Visitation is from 5-7 p.m., Thursday, February 27, at Riverwood and will resume on Friday from 10 a.m. until the service.
Ms. Rushing, 76, of Meadville, died February 22, 2025, at Meadville Convalescent Home. She was born on September 7, 1948, to Lewis Rushing and Lois Jones Rushing. She was a member of McCall Creek Baptist Church.
Ms. Rushing completed high school and went on to nursing school, where she became a Licensed Practical Nurse.
She enjoyed vintage television programs, reading, and working puzzles. She loved her family most of all and treasured the time she spent with them.
She is preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Lois Elaine Halford and Alma Yvonne Rushing.
She is survived by her sisters, Hazel Price (Charles, deceased), Lillie Irene Rushing (Barbara), and Carrie Annette Calcote (Johnny); nieces, Sharon Halford Wooters and Lisa Beazley (Darrin) and nephew, Larry Wallace (Barbara). She is also survived by a host of great nieces and great nephews.
The family extends appreciation to Compassus Hospice and Meadville Convalescent Home Staff.
Paul Wilson Baham, Jr.
A celebration of life for Paul Wilson Baham, Jr. will be held 10 a.m., Wednesday, February 26, at Riverwood Family with burial to follow at 11:30 a.m., in East Fork Baptist Church Cemetery in Liberty, MS. Visitation is from 5-7 p.m., Tuesday, February 25, at Riverwood.
Mr. Baham, Jr., 75, of Brookhaven, passed from this life February 22, 2025, at his residence. He was born in Virginia Beach, VA, December 31, 1949, to Paul Wilson Baham, Sr. and Minnie Lee Moore Baham. He graduated from Liberty High School and completed his education at University of Mississippi.
Mr. Baham was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was dedicated to his family and the faith family he served the Lord with at Christ Methodist Church. He was a faithful servant and friend to anyone in need. Mr. Baham taught Sunday School, served as deacon, and was a member of Methodist Men. He retired with 42 years of service to Farm Bureau.
He had several hobbies that gave him great pleasure. He was an avid outdoorsman, raising and riding horses, gardening, hunting, fishing, and R.V. traveling. He will be greatly missed by all who loved him.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his wife of 54 ½ years, Bobbye Faye Baham; children, Amanda B. Heard (Derrick) of Brandon, MS, Paul Wilson “Trae” Baham, III (Alicia) of Madison, MS; five grandchildren, Paul “Will” Wilson Baham IV, Annalyn G. Baham, Megan Heard, Emma Heard, and Hannah Heard; brother, Alney A. Baham. He is also survived by a host of other loving family members and his faith family at Christ Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Capital Campaign, Christ Methodist Church of Brookhaven, P.O. Box 4387, Brookhaven, MS 39603.
Virginia Sellers Sparks
A celebration of life will be held for Virginia Sellers Sparks 11 a.m., Thursday, February 27, at Riverwood Family with burial in Riverwood Memorial Park with her pastor, Rev. Tyler Bridge officiating. Visitation is from 5-8 p.m., Wednesday, February 26, at Riverwood and will resume from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Thursday.
Virginia, 75, of Brookhaven, after arriving home from MD Anderson on Thursday night, greeted by family and friends, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at her home surrounded by family. She was born in Canton, MS on October 26, 1949, to Berten M. Sellers and Tomie Pace Sellers Gibson.
Virginia was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. The joys of her life were her grandchildren that she filled their summers with sweet memories together at Meme and Papa’s house with Vacation Bible School, swimming at Mrs. Debra’s and spending time together. She loved watching and supporting them at their sporting events and activities. She was a faithful charter member of Christ Methodist Church of Brookhaven and was active in the Prayer Shawl Ministry there. She taught Kindergarten for many years at Faith Presbyterian Church. She will be greatly missed by all who loved her.
She is preceded in death by her parents and her stepfather, Jim Gibson, and grandmother, Mai Pace Faucette.
Survivors include her husband of 53 years, Allen Sparks; children, Bert Sparks (Meisha) of Saltillo, MS, Leon Sparks (Jennifer) of Meridian, MS, and Michael Sparks (Lacey) of The Woodlands, TX; grandchildren, Emma Cate and BreAnne Sparks, Pace and Sellers Sparks, Maddox and Slade Sparks; brother, Leon Sellers (Jill); and a host of other nieces, nephews, loving family members and friends. The Pallbearers will be Dustin Bairfield, Stan Foster, Dave Langston, Keith Kavitz, Maddox Sparks, Slade Sparks, Pace Sparks, and Sellers Sparks. Honorary pallbearers will be Dr. David Strong and Dr. Greg Howell.
The Sparks family extends great appreciation to Arden Hospice Ministries.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Capital Campaign, Christ Methodist Church of Brookhaven, P.O. Box 4387, Brookhaven, MS 39603
James Caroll Hennington
A Celebration of life will be held for James Caroll Hennington 2 p.m., Monday, February 24, at Sylvarena Baptist Church with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation is from Noon until the time of service.
James Caroll Hennington, 79, passed away on Thursday, February 20, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 54 years, Shirley Ann Hutson, his parents, William Henry Hennington and Winnie Mae Rich Hennington Smith, his stepfather Mathew Butler Smith, and an infant brother, Will Hennington. Mr. Hennington is survived by his children: Darlene Lewis (Mike) of Brandon, MS, Laurie Chassion (Joey) of Wesson, and David Caroll Hennington (Holly) of Canton, GA. He also leaves behind five grandchildren: Trey Chassion (Ariel), Anna Lewis Gunn (Sam), Hailey Chassion, Ava Mae Hennington, and George Hennington, along with a great-grandson, Truett Chassion, and his cherished sister, Zoula Mae Huffman (George) of Wesson, MS. Known for his impressive driving skills, Mr. Hennington was invited to compete in skill challenges at Walmart’s headquarters in Bentonville, AR. His commitment to his work was matched only by his devotion to his family. He loved to proudly share stories of his children, grandchildren, and great[1]grandson with anyone who would listen. He attended countless sports games, band concerts, and rodeos to support his family, including his children, nieces, and nephews. An avid outdoorsman, he passed on his love for nature to his children and mentored his nieces and nephews, helping them cultivate their own appreciation for the outdoors. His infectious smile and warm embrace left a lasting impact on many, earning him the nickname “Uncle Caroll” and “Pawpaw” from both family and friends alike. His family finds comfort in knowing that his legacy will endure through his love for his wife, children, and the countless precious memories shared with so many during his time with us. Caroll and Shirley shared a lifetime together. They eloped to Livingston, AL, on November 26, 1965, during the Thanksgiving holiday. Over the years, they enjoyed many activities together, including camping and participating in CB clubs in the 70s, where they were known as Ranger Slim and Lady Ranger Slim. In the 80s, they took up square dancing at the Old Wesson School, and in the 90s, they devoted time to helping raise their grandchildren while continuing their camping adventures across the state. For many years, they hosted the Dixie National Wagon Train kickoff campout at the Hennington home place on Beauregard Road. A regular presence on Facebook, Caroll loved keeping in touch with his friends and family daily. He was an active member of Sylvarena Baptist Church and attended Beauregard Church during his childhood. Even after moving to assisted living, he continued to watch church services on Facebook. He was fond of unsweet tea, Mississippi State, and fried fish. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to his care team at The Aspen, including Kelly Rutland, Jesse Harrison, Virginia Petty, and Jaylan Hall. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Winnie Mae Rich Hennington Smith Memorial Scholarship, Co-Lin Foundation, P.O. Box 649, Wesson, MS 39191.
Frances Ann Smith Oliver
A Celebration of life service will be held for Frances Ann Oliver 2 p.m., Tuesday, February 25, at Macedonia Baptist Church with burial in the Church Cemetery. Visitation is from 5-8 p.m. Monday, February 24, at Riverwood and will resume from 1 p.m. until the time of service on Tuesday.
Mrs. Oliver, 85, of Brookhaven, went to be with the Lord February 21, 2025. She began her journey in life on October 8, 1939, born to Edward and Bertha Smith. She balanced work and family with grace and strength. She and her husband, Kenneth, owned and operated Oliver Grocery for many years. Mrs. Oliver was a member of Macedonia Baptist Church and a faithful wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She will be greatly missed by all who loved her.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Ray Oliver; her parents; and her sister, Shirley Smith.
Those who remain to cherish her memory are her children, Becky Boyd (Michael), Kenneth Oliver (Margaret), and Ricky Oliver; brothers, Carl Smith (Lawanda), Jimmy Smith (Diane), and Tommy Smith (Jan); sister, Peggy Britt; six grandchildren, Allyson, Amber, Corey, Arron, Leah, and Brianna; and eight great grandchildren.
The family extends appreciation to Silver Cross and Deaconess Home Health for the love and care given to Mrs. Oliver.
Obituaries
-
Welton Dewitt Cothern
Welton Dewitt Cothern was born July 31st, 1934. He was the son of the late Herman William Cothern and Texie…
Read More -
Daniel Spear
Today we celebrate the life of a remarkable man who touched the hearts of many. He was a devoted husband,…
Read More -
Geraldine Freeman Byrd
The funeral service for Geraldine Freeman Byrd will be 2:30 p.m., Saturday, March 1, at Riverwood Family, with burial in…
Read More -
Bobby Ray Martin
A celebration of life will be held for Bobby Ray Martin Noon, Wednesday, February 26, at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church…
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Winifred Allen Hamilton
A celebration of life will be held for Winifred Allen Hamilton 11:30 a.m., Thursday, February 27, at Bethel Temple Pentecostal…
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Helen Louise Rushing
The funeral service for Helen Louise Rushing will be at 11 a.m., Friday, February 28, at Riverwood Family. Visitation is…
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Paul Wilson Baham, Jr.
A celebration of life for Paul Wilson Baham, Jr. will be held 10 a.m., Wednesday, February 26, at Riverwood Family…
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Virginia Sellers Sparks
A celebration of life will be held for Virginia Sellers Sparks 11 a.m., Thursday, February 27, at Riverwood Family with…
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James Caroll Hennington
A Celebration of life will be held for James Caroll Hennington 2 p.m., Monday, February 24, at Sylvarena Baptist Church…
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Frances Ann Smith Oliver
A Celebration of life service will be held for Frances Ann Oliver 2 p.m., Tuesday, February 25, at Macedonia Baptist…
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Betty W. Jones
Betty Woodham Jones, 91, of Brookhaven, Mississippi passed away on February 19 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother…
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Nancy Lynn Smith
The funeral service for Nancy Lynn Smith will be 11 a.m., Monday, February 24, at Riverwood Family with burial in…
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Betty Opal Martin
The funeral service for Betty Opal Martin will be 10 a.m., Tuesday, February 25, at Riverwood Family, with burial in…
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Hugh L. Boyte, Jr.
The funeral service for Hugh L. Boyte, Jr. will be Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Solid Rock…
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Harry Lane Cole, Jr.
A Celebration of Life and crawfish boil for Mr. Harry Lane Cole, Jr. will be 12:00 p.m., Sunday, March 2,…
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Rita Ann Powell
Rita Ann Powell, 77, of Wesson, was born October 27, 1947, to Proby Nations and Opal McGarity Thornton, died February…
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Michael Lavelle Pace
The funeral service for Michael Lavelle Pace will be 2 p.m., Thursday, February 20, at Riverwood Family with burial in…
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Edward Eugene Glodjo
Graveside service for Edward Eugene Glodjo will be 10 a.m. Saturday, February 22, in Wintergreen Cemetery in Port Gibson, MS.…
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Joyce Campbell Asken
The funeral service for Joyce Campbell Asken will be 3:00 p.m., Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Riverwood Family with burial…
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Steven Ray Wages
The funeral service for Steven Ray Wages will be 1:00 p.m., Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Strong Hope Baptist Church…
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