Archived Belmont Obituaries

SANDRA MAXWELL LEATHERS

BELMONT, MS - Sandra Maxwell Leathers, 67, died Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at North Ms. Medical Center, Iuka, MS. She was born in Tishomingo County, MS and worked as a seamstress. She was a member of Jordan Hill Church of God of Prophecy, Dennis, MS.

Services will be Saturday, January 2, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Rev. James Herman Gray officiating. Burial will be in Joel Cemetery, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by one daughter – Angie Patterson (Bobby); three grandchildren – Isiah, Kurtland and Jasmine Patterson; two brothers – Robert Maxwell (Helen) Tishomingo, MS and Wayne Maxwell, Lewisville, TX; two step-brothers – Rick Wooten and Terry Wooten and lots of special nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Sonny Leathers and her parents, Bobby and Dorothy Thompson Maxwell.

Pallbearers will be Larry Wooten, Steven Wooten, Cory Sparks, Mark Lovelace, Ricky Maxwell and Jerry Kimbrough. Honorary pallbearers will be Ronnie Maxwell, Isiah, Kurtland and Jasmine Patterson.

Visitation will be Saturday, January 2, 12-2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

RAYMOND EDWIN PATRICK

RUSSELLVILLE, AL – Raymond Edwin Patrick, passed away December 24, 2020 at Helen Keller Hospital in Sheffield, AL.  He was born September 18, 1943 in Belmont, MS.  He was a faithful member of North Highlands Church of Christ. He enjoyed playing golf, yard work, and traveling. He was a Mississippi State Athletics fan. He taught school for 42 ½ years in Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi. He spent the majority of his teaching career at Russellville High School in Russellville, Alabama where he taught algebra/math and Driver’s Education.

Graveside services will be Saturday, December 26, at 2 p.m. at Lindsey Cemetery, Dennis, MS with Bro. Philip Goad officiating.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his son, Jason Edwin Patrick, of Vestavia Hills, Alabama.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lucille (Savage) Patrick, and his father, Raymond E. Patrick.

Pallbearers will be Roger Enchiff, Brent Enchiff, Patrick Crummie, George Crummie, Frankie Hammock, Jerry Lindsey, Gary Hester and Jerry Moore.  Honorary pallbearers will be Doug Clement, Dr. Wayne Ray, Hisham Durdunji and Eddie Robinson.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to Sunnybrook Children’s Home (Jackson, MS), Pinevale Children’s Home (Corinth, MS), St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital (Memphis, TN), M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (Houston, TX), or a charity of your choice.

BETTY HANEY

BELMONT, MS – Betty Haney, 72, died Thursday, December 17, 2020 at North Ms. Medical Center, Iuka, MS. She was born in Mississippi and worked as a secretary for more than twenty years. She was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church, Dennis, MS.

Services will be Sunday, December 20, 2 p.m. at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Dennis, MS with Bro. Robert Wood, Bro. Matthew Haney and Bro. Jerry George officiating. Burial will be in Antioch Cemetery, Golden, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by three sons – Michael Haney (Sandy), Matthew Haney (Carissa) and Jonathan Haney (Morgan); eight grandchildren – Ashley Ross, Cari Beth Solomon (Tanner), Madilynne Goforth, Ryker Watson, Shelby Jean Haney, Case Haney (Mattie), Cali Haney, Cade Haney; six great-grandchildren – Gavin Ross, Presley Kate Ross, Owen Ross, Tessleigh Solomon, Ella Solomon and Reid Solomon; one brother – Joe Ewing (Peggy); three sisters – Linda Taylor (Jerry), Donna Roberts and Angela Ewing; one sister-in-law – Shirley Lindley (David) and one brother-in-law – David Joe Poole.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Donnie Haney, two great-grandchildren and her parents, Orville and Ruth Wilson Ewing, Sister- Kathy Poole, Brother- Bobby Ewing.

Pallbearers will be Gavin Ross, Cade Haney, Case Haney, Jason Taylor, Benji Spigner and Daryl Ewing. Honorary pallbearers will be Owen Ross, Lloyd Rhodes, Reid Solomon, Ryker Watson and Jeff Poole.

Visitation will be Saturday, December 19, 5-8 p.m. at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Dennis, MS.

DENNIS DEEN BUSHART

BROWNSVILLE, TN – Dennis Deen Bushart, 64, died Thursday, December 17, 2020 at his residence. He was born in Alabama and worked in appliance manufacturing.

Services will be Monday, December 21, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Ray Kirk officiating. Burial will be in Old Union Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by a sister – JauRhonda Middleton; a nephew – Errick Cobb and several great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Dot Bushart, his parents, Arlis Deen and Syble Bennett Bushart and a nephew, Derrick Cobb.

Visitation will be Monday, December 21, 12-2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

MAUREE EMBREY

GOLDEN, MS – Geanna Mauree Embrey, 91, went home to be with her Lord on Saturday, December 5, 2020 at NMMC, Tupelo, MS.  She was born in Tishomingo County, MS to Delmer and Pearl Smith Beam.  She was retired from Golden Manufacturing after 24 years and was a member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church.

A private family service will be held.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by three daughters-Sue Johnson, Willa Mitchell (Stanley) and Debra Franks (Andy); one son-Eugene Embrey (Stephanie) all of Golden; five grandchildren-Susan Monroe (Scotty), Clint Johnson, April Crum (Donald), Scottie Mitchell and Sheena Wood (Joey); six great-grandchildren-Hayden Monroe (Katylin), Cassie Monroe, Courtney Sparks (Austin), Brody Crum, Chynne Wood and Ana Wood; one great-great granddaughter-Lucy Sparks.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband-Willis Embrey; two sisters-June Embrey and Geraldine Beam; six brothers-Vuin, Bill O., Lawford, Larry, Leburn and Leonard Beam and a son-in-law-Dan Johnson.

Pallbearers will be Tony Embrey, Jody Embrey, Justin Embrey, Clint Johnson, Scottie Mitchell and Hayden Monroe.  Honorary pallbearers will be Brody Crum, Austin Sparks, Joey Wood and Scotty Monroe.

RAY T. FOWLER

DENNIS, MS – Ray T. Fowler, 83, passed away Tuesday, December 1, 2020 at his residence. He was born in Booneville, MS to the late Mirl and Effie Fowler. He was retired from Leggett and Platt and was a member of the Belmont United Methodist Church. He loved spending time in his yard and being with his family.

A private family only graveside service will be held at a future date. Burial will be in Marietta Cemetery, Marietta, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife of fifty-two years – Dolores Fowler; his children – Liz Russell (Alan), Ronnie Fowler (Carrie); grandchildren – Erica Phillips (Wayne), Connie Pieczarka (Micah), Leslie Fowler, Jessica Fowler, Christy Fowler, Chandler Ayers (Hannah), Logan Fowler and Bryce Jackson; several great-grandchildren and a brother– Wade Fowler (Sarah).

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sons, Todd and Dan Fowler, brothers, Bill, Thurman and Joe Fowler and Henry Adams and sisters, Lexie Adams, Reba Thompson, Adelle Bridges, Margaret Fowler, Maxine Fason and Sue Gumm.

Visitation will be Thursday, December 3, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the residence of Dolores Fowler.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online at www.stjude.org.

EULON PRUEITT

DENNIS, MS – Eulon Prueitt, 91, died Monday, November 30, 2020 at North Ms. Medical Center, Iuka, MS. He was born in Franklin County, AL to Marcus and Dicena Hall Prueitt. He had worked at Tiffin Motor Homes and was retired from Johnson RV. He was a member of Bethel Church of God.

Services will be Thursday, December 3, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Roger Johnson, Rodney Johnson and Adam Prueitt officiating. Burial will be in Dennis Memory Gardens, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife of seventy years – Faye Prueitt; three children – Barbara Spencer (David), Rebecca Lambert (Tony) and John Prueitt (Sherry); seven grandchildren – Michelle Barron, Brook Brooks, Brent Lambert, Adam Prueitt, Ashlie Joyner, Abraham Spencer and Danielle Spencer; nine great-grandchildren – Adrienne Hayes, Lauren Lambert, Cody Vick, Brayden Vick, Blake Joyner, Chenoah Embrey, Hunter Embrey, Sy Embrey and Kimberly Barron; one great-great-grandchild – Braxton Ascher Moore.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a great-grandchild, Colton Embrey, five brothers, George, Velon, Raymond, Travis and Joe Prueitt and one sister, Ophelia Ginn.

Pallbearers will be Brent Lambert, Cody Vick, Brady Vick, Adam Prueitt, Abraham Spencer and Derek Joyner.

Visitation will be Thursday, December 3, 12-2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

BILLY DEAN MIDDLETON

DENNIS, MS - Billy Dean Middleton, 74, passed away November 24, 2020 at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, TN surrounded by family. He was born on August 31, 1946 to Bill and Mary Lou Middleton of Iuka, MS. He served his country in the National Guard and worked for TVA until he retired.

A private graveside service will be held for family at a later date. Burial will be in Harmony United Methodist Church Cemetery, Iuka, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife of fifty-three years - Brenda Middleton; three children- Candace Barry (Shannon), Keith Middleton (Chasity) and Craig Middleton;  eight grandchildren - Krista Thomas, Parker Middleton, Collin Middleton, Kylee Barry, Christopher Barry, Carson Middleton, SelahGrace Middleton and JohnMorgan Middleton; a sister - Yvonne Russell (Jim) and a nephew - JohnMark Stephens (Sheryl).

He is also survived by many friends and will be missed greatly.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a great-niece, Liz Stephens.

MARY OWENS CAIN

GOLDEN, MS – Mary Owens Cain, 95, passed on Sunday, November 22, 2020.  Mary was born in Golden, MS on September 1, 1925.  As a young adult she worked at several jobs, including as a helicopter assembly safety inspector in South Bend, IN and as a secretary at Sears, Roebuck and Company in Memphis, TN.  She was a student nurse at Charity Hospital in New Orleans, attended Nursing School in Corinth, MS and graduated as a Registered Nurse from Lutheran Hospital Nursing School in Vicksburg, MS in 1950.  In 1954, she completed Nurse Anesthetist training at the Medical College of Alabama in Birmingham, AL. She was the only Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist in Alcorn and Tishomingo counties for several years.  She worked in the Nursing Field for over 50 years, including in Memphis, TN, Corinth, MS, Russellville, AL, Pinebluff, AR, and Gulfport, MS.  Following her retirement from nursing, Mary returned to Golden, MS to enjoy her retirement.  She volunteered for many years at the Antone Tannehill Good Samaritan Free Clinic.  She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star for over 75 years and was a member of both the Belmont and Corinth Chapters. She also was a member of the Magnolia Red Hat Society and the Tishomingo Co. Needle Chasers.  Mary was a member of First Baptist Church in Belmont, MS.

A private family graveside service will be held at Lindsey Cemetery with Bro. Ray Burks officiating.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Mary is survived by two brothers, William K. Owens (Joann), and Gerald F. Owens; five nieces and nephews, Mike Owens (Kelli), David Owens (Amy), Melissa Owens, Sandra Tribble, and Greg Owens; and eight great nieces and nephews, Samantha Owens, Audrey Owens, Presley Owens, Michael Tribble, Drew Owens, Cassidy Owens, Kip Owens, Celia Owens.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard Cain; her parents William E and Helen Owens; and one brother, Harold Owens.

Visitation will be Tuesday, November 24, 2:30-3:30 at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

Pallbearers will be Greg Owens, David Owens and Tim Burton.  Honorary pallbearers will be Michael Harold Owens and Tommy Clark.

The lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Order of the Eastern Star, Attention:  Donations to Corinth Chapter #27, MS Shelba Walker WM, 1306 East Church Street, Booneville, MS 38829.

LAVERNE BOHANNON

BELMONT, MS – Audrie Laverne Bohannon, 70, passed away Saturday, November 21, 2020 at the Red Bay Hospital.  She was born in Belmont, MS to Raymond and Lurie Pharr Pruitt who preceded her in death.  She was retired from Tiffin Motor Homes and attended New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, November 24, 1 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Brian Weems officiating.  Burial will be in Lindsey Cemetery.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband-Ed Bohannon; her children-Wesley Bohannon (Carey), John Bohannon (Katie), Lynn Dawson (Robert), Andrea McDonald (Shane) and Laine Ozbirn (Stacy); grandchildren-Bryant Bohannon, Carsen Bohannon, Klara-Kate Bohannon, Hadley Bohannon, Reagan Bohannon, Emmy Bohannon, Bradley Bohannon, Matthew Bohannon, John Robert Dawson, Erik McDonald (Monica), Ashlei Laugherty (Bradley), Ethan McDonald, Aleigha McDonald, Brody Giles and AudrieAna Ozbirn; three great-grandchildren and one sister-Linda Wilson (Ronnie).

Pallbearers will be Wesley Bohannon, John Bohannon, Erik McDonald, Ethan McDonald, Stacy Ozbirn and Brody Giles.  Honorary pallbearers will be Shane McDonald, Bradley Bohannon, Matthew Bohannon and John Robert Dawson.

Visitation will be Tuesday, November 24, 11-1 at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

RAY RANDY CREDILLE, JR.

DENNIS, MS – Ray Randy Credille, Jr., 49, died Sunday, November 8, 2020 at his residence. He was born in Iuka, MS and worked at Bonds Paving.

Graveside services will be Wednesday, November 11, 2 p.m. at Belmont City Cemetery, Belmont, MS with Bro. Hal Holt and David Elrod officiating. Burial will be in Belmont City Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by three children – Katlyn Hogan (Corey), Kennedy Credille (Noah Wolfe) and Victoria Swinea; two grandchildren – Andrew and Evelyn Hogan; his parents– Ray and Judy Credille; one brother – Jamie Credille (Latisha); one sister – Teresa Credille; one nephew – Hunter Credille; three nieces – Kayleigh Stokes, Bailey Credille and Madison Stokes and one great-niece – Arabella Young.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Claudie and Mable Credille, Waymon Elrod and Grace Fortner.

Pallbearers will be Corey Hogan, Steven Floyd, Chuck Scott, Ricky Don Thorn, Noah Wolfe and Jesse Atkinson.

Visitation will be Tuesday, November 10, 6-9 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

MARY JOYCE LONG

TISHOMINGO, MS – Mary Joyce Guest Long, 86, passed away Friday, November 6, 2020 at her residence.  She was born in Burnsville, MS to Roy Orlando and Mozelle Candace Smith Nash.  She was retired from Blue Bell and was a member of Jackson Camp Baptist Church.

Graveside services will be Monday, November 9, 11 a.m. at Tishomingo City Cemetery with Bro. Dwight South officiating.  Burial will be in Tishomingo City Cemetery.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by four children-Deborah Ryan (Tim) of Iuka, Ricky Carter (Tammy) of Tishomingo, Roger Carter (Vera) of Montgomery, AL and Carol Josey (Jack) of Tishomingo; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one brother-Jimmy Nash Phillips; one sister-Brenda Sue Cain and a host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her son-Phillip Carter; one sister-Nancy Clark; one brother-Harold Roy Nash and her parents.

Pallbearers will be Neil Ryan, Harry Carter, Ben Carter, Kevin Carter, Nick Harwell and Shea Harwell.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

ANNIE LUCILLE IRBY ORRICK

GOLDEN, MS – Annie Lucille Irby Orrick, 73, died Wednesday, November 4, 2020 at Generations of Red Bay. She was born March 4, 1947 in Itawamba County, MS. She had worked in furniture manufacturing and was a member of Walker Baptist Church.

Services will be Friday, November 6, 12 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Clay Weaver officiating. Burial will be in Butler Cemetery, Golden, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by one sister – Cathy Collum (Robert); one brother – Bob Irby (Regina) and a host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Douglas McArthur Orrick, her father, Floyd Irby and her mother, Marie Irby.

Pallbearers will be Dennis Collum, Andrew Collum, Wade Irby, Clanton Irby, Jeremy Orrick and Brian Sides.

Visitation will be Friday, November 6, 10-12 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

ONEAL WOOD

GOLDEN, MS – Oneal Wood, 77, died Wednesday, October 28, 2020 at North Alabama Medical Center, Florence, AL. He was born February 10, 1943 in Itawamba County, MS to B. B. Wood and Thelma Mae Lucas Wood. He was a member of Salem Baptist Church. He enjoyed horseback riding, fishing, four-wheeler riding, listening to Elvis music, and eating at Reeves Steakhouse every Thursday night. While he enjoyed many hobbies, his most beloved hobby was spending time with his family and making deals. Oneal Wood founded Wood Sales Company in 1968, which has become one of the country’s biggest tool and equipment wholesalers. He has always enjoyed investing and mentoring young entrepreneurs especially those special to him such as his children and grandchildren. Because of the success of Wood Sales and Oneal’s mentoring, many family and community businesses have been brought to life which he helped oversee. Not only has he been a successful business man, but he has taken pride over the past forty years in his 4th of July “Firework Show” at his lake house in Windbush Hollow on the Tennessee River.

Graveside services will be Saturday, October 31, 4 p.m. at Belmont Memory Gardens, Belmont, MS with Haskell Sparks officiating. Burial will be in Belmont Memory Gardens. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He leaves to celebrate his memories his wife of fifty-nine years – Glyndel Hall Wood; one son – Jeffery Wood (Ingrid); two daughters – Tracy Chambers (Daryl) and Tammy McDowell (James); eight grandchildren – Erick McDowell (Ginger), Sheree Randolph (Rudy), Morgan Poole (Dustin), Madison Pearson, Maycee Chambers, Chloe Watson, Caden Wood and Madden Wood; seven great-grandchildren – Eli, Kaylee and Kynlee McDowell, Sadie, Rhett and Reese Randolph and Maddix Oneal Poole; two sisters – Janice York (Richard) and Faye Holland (Thurston); one brother – Terry Parsons (Jacquline) and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a very special granddaughter, Malaya Wood.

Pallbearers will be Norman “Oneshot” Farris, Kevin Donald, Donald Ray Thomas, Dennis Miller, James Quick and Howard Morrow. Honorary pallbearers will be Bob Ozbirn, Billy Harris, Doice Dulaney, Marcus Umfress, Rabbit Swanson, Bro. Gene O’Bryan, David Wood, Shayne Adams and J.P. Wilemon, Jr.

A walk-through visitation will be Friday, October 30, 5-8 p.m. at Salem Baptist Church, Golden, MS.

In lieu of flowers the family would like donations to be made in support of childhood cancer to aTEAM  Ministries, 1809 Oxmoor Road STE 101, Homewood, AL 35209. ateamministries.org

ESTER QUAY NEAL

GERMANTOWN, TN – Ester Quay Neal, 77, died Tuesday, October 27, 2020 at Methodist Germantown Hospital. She was born April 23, 1943 in Lambert, MS to Jimmie Potts and Bertha Johnson Potts. She had worked at Allright Parking for thirty years.

Graveside services will be Friday, October 30, 12 p.m. at Highland Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS with Bro. Ray Kirk officiating. Burial will be in Highland Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by two children – Kelly Neal and Charles Neal; three grandchildren – Colin Toliver, Ally Neal and Riley Neal; one sister – Ree Marsh and one brother – Van Neal.

She was preceded in death by her husband, David F. Neal, her parents and four siblings.

Visitation will be Friday, October 30, 11 -12 p.m. at Highland Cemetery.

THELMA LOUISE NORTHCUTT

BELMONT, MS – Thelma Louise Northcutt, 95, passed away Tuesday, October 27, 2020 at Southern Magnolia, Golden, MS. She was born January 12, 1925 in Itawamba County, MS to Houston Northcutt and Effie Montgomery Northcutt. A teacher for forty-three years, she received her BS degree from Mississippi State University, her Master’s degree from Florence State University and was a member of Kappa Delta Pi honorary society. Louise helped her mother at Effie’s Café in Belmont for many years. She was a member of Old Bethel United Methodist Church where she was a Sunday School teacher for over forty years.

Graveside services will be Friday, October 30, 2 p.m. at Old Bethel Cemetery, Golden, MS with Bro. Roger Wood officiating. Burial will be in Old Bethel Cemetery, Golden, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by one niece – Jan Hardin (Charles) Northport, AL; six great-nieces – Laurie Allen, Stephanie Miller, Amy Hardin, April Lamon, Jenny Jenkins and Becky Carsten;  nephew by marriage – Steve Alexander; a host of great-great-nieces and nephews and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, James Northcutt, one sister, Laverne Strickland, one niece, Cathy Alexander and two nephews, Jerry Strickland and Mack Northcutt.

CALEB IVEY

BELMONT, MS – Caleb Drew Ivey, 27, died Wednesday, October 21, 2020 in Norfolk, VA.  He was born in Amory, MS to Bobby and Keva Stevens Ivey.  He was a machinist and a member of Friendship Baptist Church, Red Bay, AL.

Funeral services will be Saturday, October 31, 12 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Kerry Lee Peden and Bro. David Holcomb officiating.  Burial will be in Dennis Memory Gardens.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife Emily Holcomb Ivey; his daughter-Rowdy Drew Ivey; parents-Bobby and Keva Ivey; one sister-Stephanie Wren (Dustin); one brother-William Ivey; his grandmothers-Eunice Stevens and Myrna Gray (Wade); nephew-Christopher Wren and niece-Alexis Wren; father and mother-in-law-David and Tonya Holcomb; sisters-in-law-Alivia Kostelansky (Adam), Kaylee, Amber, Bella, Jayden and Bristol Holcomb and one brother-in-law-Braxton Holcomb.

He was preceded in death by his grandfathers-Joe Stevens and Carlton Ivey and his uncle-Winford Stevens.

Pallbearers will be Devin Harnage, Kaleb Barnett, Steven Peden, Daniel Sturdivant, William Ivey and Adam Kostelansky.  Honorary pallbearers will be Jake Evans and Dustin Wren.

Visitation will be Saturday, October 31, 10-12 at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Caleb Ivey Memorial Fund at Trustmark Bank or Tremont Attendance Center.

GERNICE POWELL

TISHOMINGO, MS – Gernice Powell, 73, passed away on Saturday, October 24, 2020 at Iuka Hospital.  She was born in Tishomingo, MS to the late D.C. and Elsie Haley on August 22, 1947.  She accepted Christ at an early age and united with St. Peters M.B. Church in Tishomingo.  She graduated from Cherokee High School, Cherokee, AL in 1966.  Gernice met the man of her dreams and united with John “Mickey” Powell on January 3, 1970.  They celebrated 50 years of marriage on January 3, 2020 and to this union they were blessed with two children.

Gernice loved to cook, work in her flower beds, garden and can the harvest that her husband had planted.  She was an active church member and loved to lead songs when called upon to sing until her health failed.

Graveside services will be Tuesday, October 27, 11 a.m. at Carter’s Branch Cemetery with Rev. Parnell Perkins, Rev. Bryant Southward and Rev. Willie Bogan officiating. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS is in charge of arrangement.

She leaves to cherish her memories her husband, John D. Powell; one son, Alan Craig Powell; one brother, Curtis Haley (Bobbie), Iuka, MS; one sister, Bertie McGaha (Lewis), Tishomingo, MS; two goddaughters, Kristi Lambert (Varick), Corinth, MS and Stephanie Finley, Tishomingo, MS; two devoted cousins, William Martin (Lorene) of Muscle Shoals, AL and Donald Martin of Tishomingo, MS; two uncles, Vester Alexander (Mollie) of Fort Worth, TX and Harold Alexander of Tishomingo, MS; nine sisters-in-law; five brothers-in-law; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her oldest son, Jeffrey Powell; one brother, McArthur Haley and a devoted friend, Mattie Bennett.

Her nephews will serve as pallbearers and her nieces will serve as flower bearers.  Honorary pallbearers will be the deacons of St. Peter’s and honorary flower bearers will be the ladies of St. Peter’s.

Visitation will be Monday, October 26, 5-8 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

GERALDINE HOLT RUSHING

TISHOMINGO, MS  - Geraldine Holt Rushing passed away Saturday, October 10, 2020, from complications related to Alzheimer’s disease. She was eighty-three years old. Born in Belmont, MS to Gustia Bridges Holt and Arthur Holt, Geraldine and her twin sister, Willadean, were the youngest in a family that included a sister, Madge Holt Pate and a brother, Thelton Holt. After high school graduation, Geraldine attended business school in Memphis, TN. Soon after her return to Belmont, she met David Rushing of Tishomingo. They were married in 1958, enjoying a fifty year romance that was only paused by his death in 2007. During those years, they lived in several towns in North Mississippi where they met lifelong friends that grieve with us today. They eventually settled down in Tishomingo where they built their home and raised the family. Geraldine was a hairdresser by profession and ran Gerry’s Beauty Salon for almost thirty years. Geraldine and David were active members in the community and were members of Tishomingo Baptist Church.

Geraldine was a fun loving, hard working, generous woman; a confidante, friend and supporter to those in need; a straight talking, pragmatic advisor to those in trouble; and a soft hearted love to her family. The disease of Alzheimer’s took her essence from us well before the Lord took her earthly presence, but we are grateful for every day we could be with her.

Graveside services will be Saturday, October 17, 11 a.m. at Tishomingo City Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS with Bro. Robbie Crane officiating. Burial will be in Tishomingo City Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Geraldine and David had two children, Larry Rushing (Patty) of Prairieville, LA and Diane Barger of Baton Rouge, LA. The family has been blessed with three grandsons – Justin Rushing (Rachel), Josef Hensgens (Julianne) and Adam Hensgens and two great-grandchildren – Korra Hensgens and Wyatt Rushing. She is also survived by her twin sister – Willadean Christian; a niece– Judy Pate McMeans; two nephews – Charlie Pate and Doug Holt and countless nieces, nephews and “adopted” neighborhood kids!

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a sister, Madge Holt Pate and a brother, Thelton Holt.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Alzheimer’s Association in Geraldine’s memory. Let’s find a cure on behalf of those that gave us the “why”.

ANN F. “FLO” MOORE HENRY

BELMONT, MS – Ann F. “Flo” Moore Henry, 89, died Sunday, October 11, 2020 at her residence. She was born in the Moore’s Mill Community to Olen E. and Anna Marie Basden Moore. She was a homemaker and a faithful member of First Baptist Church, Belmont, MS.

Services will be Wednesday, October 14, 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church, Belmont, MS with Bro. Ray Burks and Bro. Parrish Hartley officiating. Burial will be in Belmont Memory Gardens, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband of over sixty-eight years – Floyd Henry; three children – Mark Henry (Donna), Georgia Lee (Ralph) and Lisa Thrasher (Kerry); grandchildren – Matthew Henry (Harlee), Anna Long (Jeff), Katie Cain (Ben), Kerisa Thrasher and Drew Henry; great-grandchildren – Eli Long, Sarah Beth Long and Mattox Moore Henry; one sister – Ferne Jackson and one brother – Billy Moore (Katrine).

She was preceded in death by her parents, an infant son, Stephen Ward Henry and two sisters, Kathryn Moore Martin and Joyce Moore Holland.

Deacons of First Baptist Church will serve as pallbearers – Mark Maroon, Steve McAnally, Jerry McAnally, Edwin Bolding, Terrell Pearson and Phil Byram.

Visitation will be Tuesday, October 13, 5-8 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Belmont, MS.

ELWANDA POUNDERS GENTLE

GOLDEN, MS – Elwanda Pounders Gentle, 74, died Saturday, October 10, 2020 at North Ms. Medical Center, Tupelo, MS. She was born January 8, 1946  in Tishomingo County Mississippi to Ellis Breatis “E.B.” and Claudie Pharr Pounders and was born again July 4, 1962. She was a member of The Pounders Family Gospel Group and The Gentle Two Gospel Singing Group. She was a member of New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church Belmont, Mississippi, where she attended as long as her health would allow her to. She loved playing various instruments, singing and serving people in various ways, including her card ministry.

Services will be Tuesday, October 13, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel Belmont, MS with Bro. Scot George, Bro. Cale George and Bro. Barrett Griffin officiating. Burial will be in Belmont City Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband of fifty-six years – James Gentle, Children- Liesa and Scot George; grandchildren- Noelle and Barrett Griffin, Cale and Claire George, great-grandchildren- Creed and Cutter Griffin, Caroliese and Calla James George and one sister- Laverne Cornelius.

She was preceded in death by her parents;  brother- Dexter Pounders, father-in-law- Jesse Gentle and mother-in-law- Hazel Gentle and great grandchildren- Dakota and Oakley Griffin.

Pallbearers will be- Scot George, Cale George, Barrett Griffin, Creed Griffin, Eudell Crane, David Minnis and John McDougal.

Visitation will be Monday, October 12, 6-9 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

OTIS RAY GEORGE

GOLDEN, MS – Otis Ray George, 69, died Thursday, October 8, 2020 at North Ms. Medical Center, Tupelo, MS. He was born December 14, 1950 in Red Bay, AL to James Oscar and Clara Jane George. Otis worked for Mueller Brass for forty-four years and four months before retiring. He was always a happy person and enjoyed gatherings of his family and also his wife, Myra’s family. He was a member of Golden Central Baptist Church. Otis will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Services will be Sunday, October 11, 5 p.m. at Golden Central Baptist Church, Golden, MS with Bro. Ralph Culp and Bro. Matthew Fancher officiating. Burial will be in Belmont Memory Gardens, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife of fifty-one years – Myra Kay Smith George; three children – Michael George (Margaret), Susan Johnson (Steven), Tia Strickland (Jason); special children – Vicky Self and Yvonne Sharp; one brother – Gordon George (Nora Ann), two sisters – Margaret Pardue (Tommy) and Shelia Bolton (Billy); two granddaughters – MaKena George and Callie Johnson; brother-in-law – J.D. Smith and sister-in-law – Sherry Enlow.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Vester, Edward and Riley George and two sisters, Martha Barnes and Vera Nell Page.

His nephews will serve as pallbearers – Scot George, Anthony George, Ricky Page, Oscar Barnes, Ben George, Anthony Timbs and T.J. Bolton. Honorary pallbearers will be Christian Motorcycle Association.

Visitation will be Sunday, October 11, 2-5 p.m. at Golden Central Baptist Church.

ALBERT LEE CULP

BELMONT, MS – Albert Lee Culp, 82, died Monday, October 5, 2020 at North Ms. Medical Center, Tupelo, MS. He was born in Tishomingo County, MS and was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving 1959-1963. He was a member of Dennis Church.

Graveside services will be Thursday, October 8, 1:30 p.m. at Lindsey Cemetery, Dennis, MS with Bro. Nathan Hodum and Bro. Ralph Culp officiating. Burial will be in Lindsey Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by two sisters – Brenda Rawson (Mac) and Gail Downing (Robert); aunt – Hilda Johnson; uncle – Joe Flurry; sister-in-law – Dot Culp; a host of nephews, nieces and cousins and a very special friend – Wallace Wilson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Mildred Flurry Culp, a brother, Richard C. Culp, Sr. and a sister, Irene Culp Sparks.

Pallbearers will be Douglas Rawson and Greg Whitehead.

Visitation will be Thursday, October 8, 12-1 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

DANNY HONE

TISHOMINGO, MS – Danny Edward Hone, 62, died Thursday, September 24, 2020 at NMMC in Tupelo, MS. He was born in Hammond, IN.  He was a factory worker for 45 years and was a veteran of the US Army.

Funeral services will be Sunday, September 27, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Danny Young officiating. Burial will be in Old Union Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife – Vickie Hone; sons –D.J. Hone (Brittany), Dakota Hone (Stephanie), and Chaz Hone; daughter – Tara Malone; grandchildren – Carson Malone, Montana Malone, Ella Mae Hone and Eli Hone and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parent- Ben and Elnar Hone; his son-Wesley Hone and a sister-Daris Clements.

His family will serve as pallbearers.

Visitation will be from 6-9 p.m. Saturday, September 26, at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

EDNA CREDILLE CLEVELAND

BELMONT, MS – According to Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 we read, to everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die.  Edna Avalene Cleveland was born October 11, 1925 to William Bethel and Arabelle Newell Credille. On January 2, 1946, she wed the love of her life, Arnold Cleveland. They were parents to six children.

Edna was a Primitive Baptist by faith. She was not only a worker at Blue Bell, but also a homemaker who loved caring for her family. With five children that was certainly an accomplishment-especially with a set of twin boys. Edna loved to garden, to prepare food for her family and meet any needs of her family. Her family was her main delight in life. Not only did her children, grandchildren and great-grands give her joy – she gave joy to each of them.

Edna’s time on earth was fulfilled on September 18, 2020. She passed into eternity, but left several loved ones: her children – David Cleveland (Sheila) of Tupelo, Linda Reed, and Donald Cleveland (Barbara) of Belmont; grandchildren – Dan Cleveland (Christi), Brad Cleveland (Mallory), Andrew Cleveland (Makita), Faith Patterson (Ben), Pat Reed, Jr. (Jodi), Cindy Reed, Jennifer Ridgway (Bradford) and Cheryl Keokominh (Pon) and fifteen great-grandchildren.

Besides her brothers and sisters, Ila, Pauline, Oles, Claudie, Noonan, Allie Mae, Lurabelle, Annie, Amy, Faye and Addie, who preceded her in death, she will also be united with her husband, son, Ronald, daughter, Mary Catherine, the son who saw heaven but never earth, Jimmy Harold and her son-in-law, Pat Reed.

Services will be Saturday, September 19, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Greg Forbus officiating. Burial will be in Belmont City Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Pallbearers will be grandsons, Dan Cleveland, Brad Cleveland, Andrew Cleveland, Pat Reed, Jr., great-grandson, Reed Gasaway and nephew, Phillip Cleveland. Honorary pallbearers will be Casen, Mattox, Rowan, Braxton and Baker Cleveland, Ben, Mason, Piper and Arlee Beth Patterson, Makenley and Nora-Kate Cleveland, Skyler and Brylee Grace Reed, Tucker Thorne, Pon, Callie and Caitlyn Keokominh, Bradford Ridgway, Scotty Gasaway and Lanny Gasaway.

Visitation will be Saturday, September 19, 12-2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

HAROLD DEAN OSWALT

BELMONT, MS – Harold Dean Oswalt, 78, died Monday, September 14, 2020 at Iuka Hospital, Iuka, MS. He was born in Belmont, MS and owned and operated Oswalt Construction for fifty-four years. He loved to dig in the dirt and farming.  He was a member and elder of Liberty Church of Christ, Dennis, MS and was a song leader for many years. He was a member of the Board of Directors at Pine Vale Children’s Home, Corinth, MS. Harold joined First American National Bank as a Director in 1993 and served as Chairman of the Loan Committee for almost twenty years as well as Chairman of the Holding Company, First American Bancshares, Inc. since 2015. He took great pride in First American and personally helped build many branch offices, including the Main Office in Iuka, MS.

Funeral services will be Thursday, September 17, 11 a.m. at Liberty Church of Christ, Dennis, MS with David Conley officiating. Burial will be in Lindsey Cemetery, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife – Linda Oswalt; one daughter – Karen Timbs; two grandsons – Justin Timbs (Kaila) and Dillon Oswalt (Lacey); one granddaughter – Anna Timbs; four great-grandchildren – Jackson Timbs, Rylee, Ava and Hadley Oswalt; step-children– Connie Chism, Brent Chism and Cody Chism (Karla); step-grandchildren– Alyssa Grubbs, Maurijo Grubbs, Lexi Chism, Lilly and Kypton; two brothers-in-law – James Estes Sartain (Brenda) and Stephen Sartain (Deb) and one sister-in-law – Brenda Oswalt.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Maggie Talman Oswalt, his first wife, Sherry Oswalt, a son, Keith Oswalt, one sister, Molene Oswalt, one brother, Roger Oswalt and his mother-in-law, Dot Sartain.

Pallbearers will be Kerry Moody, Jimmy Moody, Robert Hester, Shane McNeil, Quint Sartain and Jerry Moore. Honorary pallbearers will be Tommy Moody, Raymon Carr, Ron Deaton, Benford Pierce, Robert Cashion, Mark Segars, Scott Segars, Tommy Chamblee and Larry Sartain.

Visitation will be Wednesday, September 16, 6-8 p.m. at Liberty Church of Christ.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pine Vale Children’s Home, 1872 County Road 700, Corinth, MS 38834.

WESLEY JAMES HONE

TISHOMINGO, MS – Wesley James Hone, 29, died Sunday, September 13, 2020 at Helen Keller Hospital, Sheffield, AL. He was born in Tupelo, MS and had worked at Tiffin Motor Homes. He was a member of Way of Life Church, Tishomingo, MS.

Services will be Wednesday, September 16, 2 p.m. at Way of Life Church, Tishomingo, MS with Bro. Bobby Wadkins and Bro. Scotty Young officiating. Burial will be in Old Union Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his parents – Danny and Vickie Hone; twin brother – Dakota Hone (Stephanie); brothers – D.J. Hone (Brittany) and Chaz Hone; sister – Tara Malone; uncles– Ray McGee and Bo McGee and nieces and nephews – Carson Malone, Montana Malone, Ella Mae Hone and Eli Hone.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents , Jimmy and Alene McGee and Ben and Elnar Hone.

Pallbearers will be Michael Mauldin, Jason Slayton, Jacob Kix, Chaz Hone, D.J. Hone, Dakota Hone and Eric McKee.

Visitation will begin at 6 p.m. Tuesday, September 15, at Way of Life Church and continue until service time on Wednesday.

MELVIN J. TAYLOR

BELMONT, MS – Melvin J. Taylor, 87, died Friday, September 4, 2020, at Tishomingo Manor in Iuka, MS.  He was born in Prentiss County, MS to James “Jim” and Bertha Taylor.  He was of the Baptist Faith.  He loved to coon hunt and fox hunt with his friend Keith Oswalt.  He was a very giving person and will be truly missed by family and friends.

Funeral services will be Sunday, September 6, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Mike Deaton officiating.  Burial will be in East Prentiss cemetery.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his sister-Ollie Dean Harris; his brother-Dexter Eugene Taylor (Flora); six nieces; four nephews and a host of great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister-Dorothy Smith and three brothers-Vernon Taylor, Randle Taylor and James Taylor.

Pallbearers will be Bill Sells, Roger Taylor, Mike Buchanan, Mike Flores, Steve Taylor and Randy Taylor.

Visitation will be Sunday, September 6, 12-2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

The family would like to thank all of his nurses and staff at Tishomingo Manor.  They loved him and took great care of him.

SHARON KAY BLAIR

GOLDEN, MS – Sharon Kay Blair, 65, died Tuesday, September 1, 2020 at North Ms. Medical Center, Tupelo, MS. She was born in Sikeston, MO and worked at Daybrite Lighting, Tupelo, MS. She was a member of Life Unlimited Church, Golden, MS.

Services will be Friday, September 4, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Toby Allison and Judy Pruitt officiating. Burial will be in Ebenezer Cemetery, Vina, AL. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by three children – Sherry Orrick, Crystal Seahorn (Brian) and Joey Wood (Sheena); six grandchildren – Marissa Carpenter (Cameron), Dylan Johnson, Logan Humphries, Chyanne Wood, Ana Wood and Hayden Seahorn; two great-grandchildren – Adalynn and Teegan Carpenter; two brothers – Norman Rose (Margie) and David Rose (Tracy); one sister – Dora Ann Ewing and a host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William”Speedy” and Mary Rose, a granddaughter, Danielle Humphries and a son-in-law, Ronnie Orrick.

Pallbearers will be Logan Humphries, Cameron Carpenter, Michael Rose, Scotty Mitchell, Stanley Mitchell, Mario Aguirre and Brian Seahorn.

Visitation will be Thursday, September 3, 6-9 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

RICHARD NORMAN KENDALL

DENNIS, MS – Richard Norman Kendall, 71, died Friday, August 28, 2020 at his residence. He was born in California and was a plant manager at Sherman Industries. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving in Vietnam. He loved his dogs.

A private family service will be held at a later date. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS assisted the family.

Survivors are his wife – Debi Kendall, Dennis, MS; two sons – Jeff Kendall (Jennifer) of California and Brian Fowler (Kara) of Picayune, MS; six grandchildren – Jordyn Alexander (Trey), Emily Fowler, Jack Kendall, Peter Kendall, Sam Fowler and Eden Fowler; his mother – Joyce Kendall and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, John Kendall, a brother, John Kendall and his best friend, Alan Dankman.

W.E. JOHNSON

OLIVE BRANCH, MS – W.E. Johnson, 88, passed away Friday, August 21, 2020 at his residence.  He was born in Grenada County, MS to Willie Edward and Mattie Robinson Johnson.  He was a minister for many years and was a member of Chapel Hill Church of God of Prophecy.  He was a retired veteran of the US Air Force serving for 20 years.

Graveside services will be Monday, August 24, 1:30 p.m. at Old Bethel Cemetery with Bro. Ronnie Stockdale and Bro. Charlie Summerford officiating. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Betty Johnson; two children-Rick Johnson (Lisa Gay) and Rachel Eben (David); four grandchildren-Erin Driskell (Jonathan), Kelly Page (Keith), Adam Eben and Alexandra Eben; six great-grandchildren-Gavin, Jaxson and Remington Driskell, Karoline, Kinley and Klaira Kate Page and one sister-Eva White.

He was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers and three sisters.

Pallbearers will be Alan Rouse, Phil Robbins, David Eben, Adam Eben, James Harwood and Steve Cleveland.

Visitation will be Monday, August 24, 12-1 at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

ONNIE VIONE ALEXANDER

TISHOMINGO, MS – Onnie Vione Alexander, 84, passed away Monday, August 17, 2020 at Tishomingo Manor, Iuka, MS. She was the fourth and youngest child of Mr. Roddie and Mrs. Louaddie Alexander. She was born July 19, 1936 in Tishomingo County, MS in the Carters Branch Community, where she was reared and lived. At an early age, she joined Carters Branch Missionary Baptist Church and remained a Baptist for her entire life. She attended Carters Branch Elementary, Tishomingo, MS, Cherokee High School, Cherokee, AL, Lane College, Jackson, TN and Meharry Medical College School of Nursing, receiving a B.S. degree in Nursing. She worked in various areas as a registered nurse for thirty-three years before retiring.  Onnie enjoyed working on the family farm, nursing and caring for her immediate family, helping care for the home, yard and farm, with special attention to the yard and flowers until her health failed. She enjoyed sewing, crafts, needle work and other hand projects. Onnie always looked forward to church services and other religious activities and attended regularly as long as her health permitted her to dress and go and she never lost her faith in God.

Graveside services will be Saturday, August 22, 11 a.m. at Carters Branch Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS with Rev. Willie Bogan officiating. Burial will be in Carters Branch Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Vadie Ruth Alexander and Viola Olevia Alexander, one brother, Bufore Alexander and her grandparents.

MARTHA CAROLYN SPARKS

BELMONT, MS – Martha Carolyn Sparks, 64, died Monday, August 17, 2020 at South Central Regional Medical Center in Laurel, MS. She was born in Paden, MS and was a seamstress. She was a member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church.

Graveside services will be Wednesday, August 19, 4:30 p.m. at Joel Cemetery, Dennis, MS with Haskell Sparks officiating. Burial will be in Joel Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by four children – Lisa Mahan (Tim), Tamera Sparks, Tony Sparks and Michelle McMinn (Gene); seven grandchildren – James Timothy Mahan, Jr., Brianna Howard, Wyatt Smith, Blaze Smith, Alex Sparks, Hunter Wigginton and Trenton Wigginton; one great-grandson and one sister – Judy Hood, Fulton, MS.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John Manuel and Exie Maxwell Gasaway; three brothers, Julius Gasaway, Jimmy Gasaway and Billy Gasaway and ten sisters, Ruth Nunley, Faye Whitehead, Lona Bell Johnson, Johnnie Sue Gasaway, Frankie Carter, Dorothy Carter, Barbara Gentry, Bonnie Adams, Janice Harmon and Linda Cox.

Pallbearers will be J.T. Mahan, Alex Sparks, Hunter Wigginton, Trenton Wigginton, Wyatt Smith and Blaze Smith.

GEORGE D. “BRO. BILLY” CREDILLE

BELMONT, MS – George D. “Bro. Billy” Credille, 91, passed away Saturday, August 15, 2020 at Tishomingo Manor in Iuka, MS.  He was born in Belmont to George and Ila D. Duke Credille.  He was a Minister for many years and was a member of Calvary Baptist Church.  He was Postmaster for Belmont and Tishomingo post office and was a veteran of the US Army serving in Korea.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, August 18, 4 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church with Bro. Barry Holcomb officiating.  Burial will be in Belmont City Cemetery.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years-Gloria Credille; his daughter-Donna Tramel (Travis); special granddaughter-Brandy Waddle (Justin); one nephew-E.L. Credille and one niece-Pat Sparks.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers and one sister.

Pallbearers will be Justin Waddle, Bob McCalpin, Greg Pharr and Tony Sparks.

A walk-through visitation will be Monday, August 17, 5-8 p.m. and Tuesday, 3-4 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church.

SHIRLEY IVEY

DENNIS, MS – Shirley Faye Ivey, 79, passed away Friday, August 14, 2020 at her residence.  She was born in Tishomingo County, MS to William Edgar and Eunice Ables Gilley.  She worked as a caregiver and was a member of Liberty Church of Christ.

Graveside services will be Sunday, August 16, 5 p.m. at Lindsey Cemetery with David Conley and John Williams officiating.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by three children-Zane Bennett (David), Jim Ford (Debbie) and Vernie Ivey; nine grandchildren-Kyle Bennett (Leigha), T.J. Credille (Jennifer), Brian Credille (Megan), Madonna Pruitt (Corey), Keylee Moore, Jordan Ford, Julia Ford, Tamera Crumwell and Angela Jeter Dewy; several great-grandchildren and three sisters-Glenda Williams (Wallace), Jenny Johnson (James) and Freida Williford.

She was preceded in death by her husband-Marcus Ivey; her parents; her children-Jerry Credille, Keith Credille and Mark Ivey; her granddaughter-Christian Faith Bennett; one sister-Kathy Gober and one brother-Eddie Gilley.

Pallbearers will be Vance Ramsey, Alan Williams, Mike Thorn, Dustin Farris, Justin Timbs, Jordan Ford and Jay Tate.

A walk through visitation will be Sunday, August, 16, 3:30-4:45 at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

CARLEE E. NUNLEY

IUKA, MS – Carlee E. “Doc” Nunley, 94, died Wednesday, August 12, 2020 at Tishomingo Manor, Iuka, MS. She was born in Red Bay, AL and worked at Genesco for thirty-eight years. She was a member of Golden Central Baptist Church, Golden, MS.

Graveside services will be Friday, August 14, 11 a.m. at Tishomingo City Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS with Bro. Scotty Young officiating. Burial will be in Tishomingo City Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by three children – James Nunley (Judy), Michael Nunley (Carol Baggett) and Sherry Holloway (Norman); six grandchildren – Tammy Hill, Tim Nunley (Jamie), Carla Hawkins, Kevin Ozbirn, Robert Nunley and Keshia Nunley; one step-grandchild – Stephen Holloway; thirteen great-grandchildren; one sister – Martha Pauline Gray and a daughter-in-law-Jettie Ozbirn.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Treman Nunley, a son, Thomas Ozbirn, her parents, Oscar Lee and Cleetus Griffus Engle, two sisters, Laverne Engle and Grace Bridges and a step-granddaughter, Claudia Holloway.

Pallbearers will be Hunter Hill, Shane Hill, Tim Nunley, Robert Nunley, Kevin Ozbirn and Dallas Holloway.

Visitation will be Thursday, August 13, 6-8 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

"SUSIE" PHILLIPS

DENNIS, MS – Merrilee “Susie” Phillips, 73, died Sunday, August 9, 2020 at Magnolia Regional Medical Center, Corinth, MS. Susie was known as Granny to many. She was a great grandmother, mother and friend. She was positive, encouraging and always so sweet. Most importantly, she was a faithful Christian woman, and there is no doubt by anyone, where she is now. She was retired from Wal-Mart and was a member of Liberty Church of Christ and Maud Church of Christ.

Graveside services will be Wednesday, August 12, 10 a.m. at Tishomingo City Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS with David Conley officiating. Burial will be in Tishomingo City Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband of fifty-four years – Jim Phillips; three sons – James R. “Bud” Phillips (Candace), Robby Michael Baker (Chelsey) and Damian Wayne Rinks; twelve grandchildren and one great-grandchild – Aubrey Leigh Horn.

She was preceded in death by a son, William Hoyt “Bill” Phillips; her parents, Hershel L. and Mary Francis Lovelace Sanderson, two sisters, Valerie Jo Rinks and Karolyn Willis and one brother, Michael “Ringo” Rinks.

BENNY DALE “B.D.” SARTAIN

DENNIS, MS – Benny Dale “B.D.” Sartain, 82, died Sunday, August 2, 2020 at his residence. He was born in Dennis, MS and was a farmer. He is of the Church of Christ faith.

Private family services were held with Haskell Sparks officiating. Burial was in Joel Cemetery, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS was in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by two sons – Jeff Sartain and Jamie Sartain and one brother, Billy P. Sartain and his wife, Mittie.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dewey and Pansy Pate Sartain and several brothers and sisters.

JAMES R. “JIM” HESTER

TISHOMINGO, MS – James R. “Jim” Hester, 73, died Friday, July 31, 2020 at his residence.  He was born in Tishomingo, MS to Ruel and Ruth Massey Hester.  He was a heavy equipment mechanic and business owner.  He attended Liberty Church of Christ.

His family and friends will best remember him as a hard worker who loved his job.  He spent his retirement years reading his bible, working crosswords and entertaining loved ones and friends with many humorous stories of the past.

Graveside services will be Monday, August 3, 11 a.m. at Tishomingo City Cemetery with David Conley officiating.  Burial will be in Tishomingo City Cemetery.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years-Joyce Kathleen Hester; two sons-Dale Hester (Angie) and Robert Hester (Tonya) and one daughter-Jennifer Fulmer; three grandsons-Dakota Hester, AJ Fulmer and Jonathan Smith; one sister-Mary Ann Halsell and his first cousin-Gene Hester.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers-Carroll Hester and Donald Hester.

Pallbearers will be Dakota Hester, AJ Fulmer, Travis Luttrell, Richie Rast, Brian Rogers and Rayburn Hargett.  Honorary pallbearers will be Gene Hester, Donnie Cain, Steve Ballard and Butch Carr.

Visitation will be Sunday, August 2, 6-8 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

EDNA EARL PENNINGTON

TISHOMINGO, MS – Edna Earl Pennington, 91, died Friday, July 31, 2020 at her residence. She was born in Tishomingo, MS and worked as a grocery store clerk. She was a member of Tishomingo Baptist Church.

Graveside services will be Sunday, August 2, 2 p.m. at Highland Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS with Bro. Eddie Hamilton officiating. Burial will be in Highland Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by three children – Dorothy Hamilton (Eddie), Bobby Pennington (Marilyn) and Jack Pennington (Patricia); two brothers – Jimmy Dale Coker (Peggy) and Bill “Scotty” Coker (Pat); one sister – Mary Shaw (Joe); five grandchildren – Stephanie Fortenberry (Cole), William Hamilton (Julie), Leigh Ann Vaughn (Dave), Brandi McGuyer (Carter) and Jack Pennington II (Lana); eight great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack L. Pennington, a grandson, Bobby Brent Pennington and six brothers and sisters, Ollie Mae Blunt, Johnnie Blunt, Nelda Johnson, Gilma McRae, Sandra June Valazquez and N.C. Coker.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made in memory of Edna Pennington to Tishomingo Baptist Church, P.O. Box 89, Tishomingo, MS 38873.

SONNY EMBREY

DENNIS, MS – Erskine E. “Sonny” Embrey, 83, passed away Friday, July 24, 2020 at the Iuka Hospital.  He was born in Tishomingo County to Erskine and Evelyn Gipson Embrey.  He was a truck driver and member of Calvary Baptist Church. He was a veteran of the US Army.

Graveside services with military honors will be Sunday, July 26, 4:30 p.m. at Joel Cemetery with Bro. Robert Wood and Bro. Barry Holcomb officiating.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife-Sue Embrey of Dennis; two children-Joel Harris (Sonya) and Martha Mansell (Terry); five grandchildren-Dustin  Harris (Meagan), Trista Eaton (Dustin), Seth Rockwell (Andrea), Shara Allison (Jason) and Asia Mansell; eleven great-grandchildren-Jazlyn Eaton, Savannah Eaton, Caren Eaton, Rita Eaton, Chris Eaton, Kenna Eaton, Mika Eaton, Olivia Harris, Peyton Mansell, Callie Larson and Jax Allison; one great-great grandchild-Jalianna Avant; his brothers and sisters-Thelma Wynn (Ed), Pat Embrey, Linda Embrey, Carol Tomlin (Bill), Jimmy Embrey (Shirley) and Joyce Embrey; sister and brother-in-law-Paulette and Frankie Embrey and his very special cats-Abby and Baby.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one grandson-Patrick Mansell and his brother-Leroy Embrey (Maria).

Pallbearers will be Dustin Harris, Seth Rockwell, Terry Mansell, Dustin Eaton, Tyrel Rutherford and Edward Dennington.  Honorary pallbearers will be Jimmy Embrey and Jason Allison.

JIMMY LEON HALE

TISHOMINGO, MS – Jimmy Leon Hale, 64, died Wednesday, July 22, 2020 at his residence. He was born in Iuka, MS and worked in metal fabrication. He was a member of Philadelphia Church of God.

Graveside services will be Wednesday, July 29, 10 a.m. at Dennis Memorial Gardens, Dennis, MS with Neil Edmondson officiating. Burial will be in Dennis Memorial Gardens. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by one son – Dylan Hale and fiancé, Tiffany of Columbus, MS and one brother, Sammy Hale and wife, Kathy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Della Yarbrough Hale and two brothers, Mike Hale and Tim Hale.

DON CUMBERLAND

DENNIS, MS – Don Cumberland, 61, died Thursday, July 16, 2020 at his residence. He was born in Jackson, MS, worked at Aerotech and was of the Baptist faith. He attended the University of Southern Mississippi on a baseball scholarship and after knee injury attended Ole Miss.

Graveside services will be Monday, July 20, 2 p.m. at Lindsey Cemetery, Dennis, MS with David Conley officiating. Burial will be in Lindsey Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife of twenty-seven years – Jane Cumberland, Dennis, MS; sister– Jan VanCamp (Keith) Brandon, MS; niece – Kate VanCamp; nephew – Kyle VanCamp; aunt – Dot Hendrix; mother-in-law – Betty Tidwell; brothers-in-law – Donnie Tidwell (Anita) and Mark Tidwell; sister-in-law – Janie Tidwell; very special childhood friend – Jeff and Tammy Slaton and several other nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Olen and Carol Cumberland, father-in-law, Kelly Tidwell and brother-in-law, Terry Tidwell.

Pallbearers will be Corey Tidwell, Josh Tidwell, Zach Tidwell, Jason Ashley, Justin Martin and Kyle VanCamp.

Visitation will be Saturday, July 18, 1-3 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

GARY EARL POOLE

DENNIS, MS – Gary Earl Poole, 67, died Tuesday, July 14, 2020 at Sanctuary Hospice, Tupelo, MS. He was born in Tishomingo, MS, was a truck driver and a member of Dennis Church.  He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, a member of the American Legion and Commander of Belmont VFW Post #6112.

Graveside services will be Sunday, July 19, 4 p.m. at Itawamba Memorial Gardens, Fulton, MS with Bro. Nathan Hodum officiating. Burial will be in Itawamba Memorial Gardens. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by one son – Donny Poole (Ginger) Golden, MS; one daughter- Missy Williams (Myrl) Dennis, MS; five grandchildren – Dustin Poole (Morgan), Brett Williams (Chloe), Madison Poole (Harrison Fancher), Trey Williams and Colin Williams; one great-grandson – Maddix Poole; one brother – Mark Poole (Holly Nichols) special brother – Bill Durward; mother of his children – Nancy Poole and a host of cousins and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl Ray and Gearldene Gray Poole.

Pallbearers will be Dustin Poole, Brett Williams, Trey Williams, Colin Williams and Harrison Fancher.  Honorary pallbearers will be members of Belmont VFW Post #6112.

Visitation will be Sunday, July 19, 12-3:30 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

CLEMMIE EMERSON GRESHAM

DENNIS, MS – Clemmie Dale Emerson Gresham, 72, died Monday, July 13, 2020 at her residence. She was born in Alabama and was retired from Bancorp South after seventeen years where she worked as a loan secretary. She had also worked at Sears in Red Bay, AL and The Red Bay News for years. She was a Baptist.

Graveside services will be Wednesday, July 15, 4 p.m. at Old Union Cemetery, Belmont, MS with Bro. Jerry Ginn and Bro. Roger Wood officiating. Burial will be in Old Union Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband – Bobby Gresham; one son – Mark Gresham (Teressa); two grandchildren – Erin and Olivia; two sisters-in-law – Joyce White (Larry) and Barbara Gresham; one niece – Lacey Pruitt and two nephews – Edric Parrish and Kendric White.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Archie and Reca Collum Emerson.

Pallbearers will be Edric Parrish, Kendric White, B.J. Pruitt, Joe Roberts, Mike Scott and Virgil Rogers.

KENNETH LEONARD UNDERWOOD

ABERDEEN, MS – Kenneth Leonard Underwood, 83, passed away Saturday, July 11, 2020 at NMMC-Gilmore Hospital in Amory, MS. Ken was the ninth child of John and Ercell Blunt Underwood. He was born and raised in Tishomingo County, MS and was a 1955 graduate of Tishomingo High School. He graduated from Mississippi State University as he had become a life-long “Dawg Fan”. As he grew older, watching sports, whether it was Atlanta Braves, NASCAR or any of the Dawgs, became extremely important to him. For the past thirteen years, he was a client of the Care Center of Aberdeen and was elected president of the Resident Council, a job he took very seriously. Every Friday was declared “Maroon Friday” in his honor.

There will be no funeral service and there will be a private burial. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS assisted the family.

He leaves behind two daughters – Lisa and Shannon; four grandchildren – Melissa, Brent, Carrie and Emmalee and five great-grandchildren. Only two of his siblings and two sisters-in-law remain – Margaret of Tishomingo, MS, Harold Lee (Martha) of Kingston, TN and Kathy (Karl’s widow) of Tupelo, MS. One dear friend of many years that will miss him also is Bob Cherry of Orlando, FL. Ken left many nieces and nephews, grand/great-nieces & nephews.

He is now having reunions with his children, Joey and Susan, his parents, siblings and their spouses, Ursula, J.O. and Mary Belle, Bluford and Anne, Arch and Eunice, Francis and Mildred, Ruth and Karl, special niece, Amy, nephews, Hood and Rick and grand-nephew, Jimmy.

BETTY HOWARD GINN

GOLDEN, MS – Betty Howard Ginn, 74, died Friday, July 10, 2020 at North Ms. Medical Center, Tupelo, MS. She was born in Tuscumbia, AL and was a seamstress. She was a member of Golden Central Baptist Church.

Graveside services will be Sunday, July 12, 12 p.m. at Belmont Memory Gardens, Belmont, MS with Bro. Jerry Ginn and Bro. Matthew Fancher officiating. Burial will be in Belmont Memory Gardens. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband of fifty-five years – Harmon Ginn, Golden, MS; two children – Toni Massey (Macky) and Sonya Bryan (Phillip Franklin) all of Golden, MS; three grandchildren – Tyler Massey (Kendra), Kylie Mackenzie Bryan and Karsten Bryan; one brother – Jackie Wayne Howard, Golden, MS and one sister – Alice Pullen, Park City, IL.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Lee and Clessie Earline Hall Howard, one brother, Robert Houston Howard and one sister, Peggy Sue Hopson.

PHILLIP WAYNE JACKSON

BELMONT, MS – Phillip Wayne Jackson, 62, died Thursday, July 2, 2020 at his residence. He was born in Mississippi and was a factory worker for more than twenty years. He was of the Methodist faith.

Graveside services will be Sunday, July 5, 1:30 p.m. at Old Bethel Cemetery, Golden, MS with Bro. Jerry Ginn officiating. Burial will be in Old Bethel Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife – Susan Jackson; one daughter – Danica Sitton (Shaun); one grandson – Oliver Sitton; three sisters – Trisha Thornton (James), Pamela Moore and Lois Bailey and two sisters-in-law – Jean Jackson and Diane Sparks.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elton and Mary Brooks Jackson and a brother, J.T. Jackson.

Pallbearers will be Dillon Horn, Shannon Pounds, Grady Newman, Rusty Newman, Levi Newman, Jason Jackson and Michael Jackson.

JEFFREY POWELL

TISHOMINGO, MS – Jeffrey Powell, 44, died Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at North Ms. Medical Center, Tupelo, MS.

Jeffrey was a networker and dreamer.  In his position as Educational Technology Specialist, he created his own niche in connecting all offices in a technology initiative to help Northeast Mississippi Community College become an Apple Distinguished School and a Top 10 Digital College.

Jeffrey was recognized for the Olan E. Ray Leadership and Innovation award for his work in furthering technology in Mississippi Community Colleges.  As an Apple Distinguished Educator, Class of 2013, Jeffrey loved pushing the boundaries of what was possible in education and always promoted the student-first mentality. His work with Career Development Academy, an after school program, helped to guide young minds to better themselves in academics.  Jeffrey’s leadership and drive helped a team of students win the first in web design, third in spirit and sportsmanship and ninth overall in the BEST Robotics competition last year.

Jeffrey was also on the Executive Board for the northeast district and the Booneville Board for Boys and Girls Club. He was a member of Carter’s Branch Missionary Baptist Church, Tishomingo, MS.

Graveside services will be Friday, June 26, 12 p.m. at Carter’s Branch Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS with Rev. Tyrone Southward officiating. Burial will be in Carter’s Branch Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his parents – John and Gernice Powell, Tishomingo, MS and one brother – Allen Powell.

Pallbearers will be Marcus Robinson, Tyrone Southward, Byron Southward, George Powell and Doug Nunley.

Visitation will be Thursday, June 25, 5-8 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS and Friday, June 26, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Carter’s Branch Cemetery.

REBECCA CLARK MARTIN

DENNIS, MS – Rebecca Ann Martin, 63, died Thursday, June 11, 2020 at Iuka Hospital, Iuka, MS. She was born in Waukegan, IL to Leland and Nellie Epps Clark. She worked in banking for more than twenty years and attended Grace Chapel in Pickwick.

Graveside services will be Monday, June 15, 2 p.m. at Dennis Memory Gardens, Dennis, MS with Bro. Don Elliott and Bro. Leonard Pratt officiating. Burial will be in Dennis Memory Gardens. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband – W.R."Skip” Martin, Dennis, MS; a daughter – Megan Martin and many relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Robert Clark, her father-in-law, Rass Martin and her mother-in-law, Nell W. Martin.

Pallbearers will be Darius Green, Jordan Powell, Grayling Cromeans, Lance Pardue, Gavin Cromeans and Jacob Stanley.

Visitation will be Monday, June 15, 12-1:30 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

ROY PRESTON BLAIR

DENNIS, MS – Roy Preston Blair, 90, died Sunday, June 7, 2020 at his residence. He was born in Paris, TX, worked as a mechanic and was a member of First Baptist Church in Dennis, MS. He was a U.S. Marine serving in the Korean Conflict.

Funeral services will be held in his hometown in Texas. Burial will be in Roselawn Cemetery, Seagoville, TX. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS assisted the family.

He is survived by his wife – Val Jean Blair;  three children – Preston Wade Blair (Melissa), Shanda George (Bro. Jerry) and Roy Britt Blair (Cindy); seven grandchildren – Valerie Westmoreland (Josh), J. Blaine Martin (Whitney), Jared Blair (Elizabeth), Ryan Blair (Rachel), Henry Blair, Mack Blair and Catherine Blair; two great-grandchildren– Max and Heidi Westmoreland; three sisters – Betty Kirkland (Clyde), Joyce Freeman and Judy McFadden (Steve) and a favorite aunt – Lorene Moore.

He was preceded in death by a son, Mark Blair, parents, Clarence Preston and Pearl Fultz Blair, two brothers, Mickey Blair and Clarence Blair and one sister, Dorothy Campbell.

GARY T. HALLMARK

DECATUR, AL – Gary T. Hallmark, 70, died Thursday, June 4, 2020 at Huntsville Hospital, Huntsville, AL. He was born in Belmont, MS and was a graduate of Belmont High School. He worked at NASA Contractors in computer and communication for twenty-eight years and loved space, NASA, science fiction and fishing. He had taught his two grandsons to love nature. He enjoyed classic rock and ham radio tag WB5UTV.

Graveside services will be Sunday, June 7, 2 p.m. at Belmont City Cemetery, Belmont, MS with Bro. Mark Nail officiating. Burial will be in Belmont City Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife of fifty years – Fay Hallmark, Decatur, AL; one daughter – Jennifer Still (Paul) Northport, AL; two grandsons – Connor and Crichton Still; two sisters – Mary Henley (David) and Martha Ann Casmus, all of Belmont, MS; one brother– John Hallmark (Donna) Tupelo, MS; an aunt – Dorothy Taylor, Brandon, MS and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernell Elwood and Elsie Taylor Hallmark and a brother, Keith Hallmark.

Pallbearers will be Paul Still, Taylor Hallmark, Robbie Waddle and William Waddle.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Belmont United Methodist Church Food Pantry, P.O. Box 516, Belmont, MS 38827 or a charity of your choice.

CLEOPHUS SOUTHWARD

TISHOMINGO, MS – Cleophus Southward, 65, died Tuesday, June 2, 2020 at North Ms. Medical Center, Tupelo, MS. He was born in Tishomingo, MS and worked in maintenance for the Natchez Trace for eighteen years. He was a member of Carter’s Branch Missionary Baptist Church.

Graveside services will be Saturday, June 6, 1 p.m. at Carter’s Branch Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS with Pastor Tyrone Southward officiating. Burial will be in Carter’s Branch Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife of thirty-four years – Phyllis Southward, Tishomingo, MS; two children – Josh Southward (Carneisha) and Amanda LaKeshia Williams (Benji); five grandchildren – Jaylan Williams, Tylen Williams, Elijah Williams, Jacolby Williams and Jaxson Williams; six brothers – Houston Southward (Ernestine), Jimmy Southward, Sr. (Christine), Wendell Southward (Lanell), Billy Southward, James Southward (Gwen) and Wilmer Southward (Glorastine); one sister – Louvenia Powell (George Sr.) and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lucion and Elviria Southward and brothers and sisters, Della Cummings, Lucion Southward, Floyd Southward, Truman Southward and Louise Powell.

Pallbearers will be Brad Harris, Will Holland, Cleveland Southward, Randall Southward, George Powell, Jr., Darryl Southward, Jimmy Southward and Stephen Powell.

Visitation will be Saturday, June 6, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at Carter’s Branch Cemetery.

SUE GOODIN

NEW ALBANY, MS – Sue Goodin, 69, died Friday, May 29, 2020 at Baptist Hospital, New Albany, MS. She was born in Dennis, MS to Archie Lee and Katherine Credille Bates and was a factory worker.

Graveside services will be Saturday, May 30, 1 p.m. at Fairview Holy Church of Christ Cemetery, Belmont, MS with Mike Deaton officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Holy Church of Christ Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by four children – Kenny Wright (Trish) Belmont, MS, Timmy Wright (Tanya) New Albany, MS, Andy Wright (Candi) Tuscaloosa, AL and Jamey Wright (Jessica) Myrtle, MS; nine grandchildren – Shelby Wright, Collin Wright, Katie Wright, Ashton Aldridge, Emily Wright, Chloe Wright, Dawson Wright, Zoey Wright and Callyn Wright; three brothers – Joe Bates (Tula), Marty Bates (Chris) and Rodney Bates (Mingshu) and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by husband, Terry Goodin, her parents, a brother, Jerry Bates and a sister, Ann Bates.

LISA KITCHENS LIGHT

BELMONT, MS – Lisa Angela Kitchens Light, 60, passed away Thursday, May 14, 2020 at Sanctuary Hospice, Tupelo, MS. Born August 27, 1959 in Jackson, MS, Lisa was adopted at eight weeks old by L.C. and Geraldine Kitchens at the Mississippi Children’s Home in Jackson, MS. Due to L.C.’s vocational ministry in the Methodist Church, Lisa and her parents moved often throughout North Mississippi, living in the following communities before Lisa was eighteen, Mantachie, Crenshaw, Water Valley, Batesville, Tula, Denmark, Pope, Winona and finally Duck Hill, from which Lisa graduated high school in 1978. Afterward, Lisa and her parents moved to Ozark, MS where she would work with her parents in a family mattress business.

Over the following years, Lisa would enjoy quite a varied career, working at Sears Portrait Studio, the assembly line of Super Sagless Steel, as a Certified Nurse Assistant at various nursing homes and North Ms. Medical Center’s main unit and retail work at Bill’s Dollar Store in Belmont and Walmart in Fulton. She also found great fulfillment in working with her parents in their home furniture business and at the Tupelo Flea Market.  She attended and enjoyed her church family at New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. She will be remembered as a faithful prayer warrior.

Graveside services will be Saturday, May 16, 4 p.m. at Kirkville Cemetery, Kirkville, MS with Bro. Glenn Bridgmon and James Underwood officiating. Burial will be in Kirkville Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Lisa is survived by her husband – Robert “Sport” Light, Belmont, MS; one son – James Underwood (Cristy) and one grandson – Trey Underwood, all of Pratts; one step-son – Richard Walker, Midway, GA; two step-grandchildren – Lily Boston and Ryatt Kersey, Midway, GA; two uncles – Wayne Hopkins, Golden, MS and Melvin Kitchens (Carolyn) Pontotoc, MS and many cousins, friends and loved ones she held so dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Pallbearers will be Jeremy Martin, James Underwood, Sr., Gary Medlock, Jackie Pounders, Danny Waters, Kirk Kitchens, Don Hall, Donnie Turner, Jordan Graham and Tim Harris.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sanctuary Hospice, 5159 West Main St., Tupelo, MS 38801.

TULON WAYNE TAYLOR

BELMONT, MS – Tulon Wayne Taylor, 68, died Sunday, May 10, 2020 at North Ms. Medical Center, Tupelo, MS. He was born in Chicago, IL to Tulon and Norma Lee Oaks Taylor and worked as a machinist.

Graveside services will be Tuesday, May 12, 11:30 a.m. at Joel Cemetery, Dennis, MS with Ron Deaton officiating. Burial will be in Joel Cemetery, Dennis, MS.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by three sisters – Carolyn Riley (Eugene) and Judy Wells (Bill) all of Jacksonville, FL and Barbara Johnson, Evansville, IN and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Taylor; his parents; two brothers, Jimmy Wade Taylor and Ronnie Taylor and a sister, Deborah Ziarko.

Pallbearers will be Jerry Taylor, Jerry Bryant and Bill Wells.

Visitation will be Tuesday, May 12, 10:30 – 11 a.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

TOMMY GENE SMITH

DENNIS, MS - Tommy Gene “Tom” Smith, 79, died Sunday, May 10, 2020 at North Ms. Medical Center, Tupelo, MS. He was born in Tishomingo County, MS to Jack K. and Estella Wigginton Smith. He was a construction superintendent with Burton Builders.

Graveside services will be Wednesday, May 13, 11 a.m. at Belmont Memory Gardens, Belmont, MS with Brian K. Smith officiating. Burial will be in Belmont Memory Gardens. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife of fifty-four years – Colleen Smith, Dennis, MS; one son – Brian K. Smith (Heather) Starkville, MS; one brother – Bob Smith (Betty) Red Bay, AL; one sister – Judy Randolph, Tupelo, MS and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Louise Thompson and Mavis Dickens.

Visitation will be Wednesday, May 13, 10-11 a.m. at Belmont Memory Gardens.

NELLIE MESSER

GOLDEN, MS – Nellie Quay Messer, 86, passed away Saturday, May 9, 2020 at Southern Magnolia in Golden, MS.  She was born in Tishomingo County, MS to John Robert “Bob” and Wynona “Nona” Parker Rouse.  She worked at Blue Bell for many years and also at the Dennis Restaurant.  She was a member of Golden Central Baptist Church.

Graveside services will be Tuesday, May 12, 1 p.m. at Ridge Cemetery with Haskell Sparks and Don Rouse officiating.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by one son-Darius Messer; four grandchildren-Angel, Doug, Sam and Luke; one brother-Billy Ray Rouse (Peggy) and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband-Lyle Dean Messer; her parents; one son-John Messer; eight brothers-Troy, Roy, Robert, Orville, N.R., Truman, Junior and Claude Rouse and two sisters-Vera Pharr and Edith Sparks.

Pallbearers will be Hunter Wigginton, Trenton Wigginton, Luke Messer, Dillon Horn, Doug Messer, Sam Messer and Alan Rouse.

Visitation will be Tuesday, May 12, 11:30-12:30 at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

RILEY GEORGE

BELMONT, MS – William Riley George, 75, died Thursday, May 7, 2020 at North Ms. Medical Center, Iuka, MS. He was born in Red Bay, AL and was a truck driver. He was a member of Landmark Baptist Church, Dennis, MS.

Graveside services will be Saturday, May 9, 3 p.m. at Joel Cemetery, Dennis, MS with Bro. Hal Holt and Bro. Scot George officiating. Burial will be in Joel Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife of fifty-six years – Sara George; two children – Michelle Bolton (Randy) Belmont, MS and Anthony George (Rea) Tishomingo, MS; five grandchildren – Whitney Day (Michael), Mackenzie Bolton (Blake Sullivan), Lane George, Eva Moreland and M.J. Moreland; three great-grandchildren – Alexis Day, Madeline Sullivan and Tucker Sullivan; brothers and sisters – Gordon George (Nora Ann), Otis George (Myra), Shelia Bolton (Billy) and Margaret Pardue (Tommy) and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Clara George and brothers and sisters, Vester George, Martha Barnes, Vernell Page and Edward George.

Pallbearers will be Michael George, Ricky Page, Steve Thorne, Stephen Johnson, Nicky Henson and Kale George.

AVINELL SIDES

GOLDEN, MS – Avinell Sides, 90, died Monday, May 4, 2020 at The Courtyards, Fulton, MS. She was born in Red Bay, AL and was a homemaker. She enjoyed gardening, flowers and spending time with her great-grandchildren. She was a member of Fairview Baptist Church, Golden, MS.

Graveside services will be Wednesday, May 6, 1 p.m. at Fairview Cemetery, Golden, MS with Mike Deaton officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by two children – Billy Sides (Debbie) and Lisa Smith, all of Golden, MS; two grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Jennie Segars Harden, a son, Kenny Sides and a grandson, Randy Sides.

Pallbearers will be Chance Gentry, Wayne Beam, Donnie Wood and Bill Worley.

SYBLE SPARKS CLAYTON

BELMONT, MS – Syble Lynette Sparks Clayton, 76, of Belmont, MS went to be with the Lord on Friday morning, May 1, 2020. Syble was born on January 15, 1944 to Ross and Bernice Sparks in Belmont, MS. She spent her early married life in Dorsey, MS and later in Belmont, MS. She was a member of New Bethel Baptist Church in Belmont but also enjoyed worship and fellowship at Greenwood Baptist in Dorsey.

Syble was well loved in her small town of Belmont. She was an exceptional wife and mother who cared deeply for her family and community. She lived a life of great faith and her love for the Lord was apparent in all she did and to all who knew her.

Graveside services will be Sunday, May 3, 2 p.m. at Hopewell Keys Cemetery, Dorsey, MS with Bro. Glenn Bridgmon officiating. Burial will be in Hopewell Keys Cemetery, Dorsey, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by two children – Jan Clayton and Susan Clayton Parr (David); eight grandchildren – Abby Clayton Husband (Leland), Dakota Clayton, Brody Clayton, Chloe Clayton, Layla Clayton, Kayla Clayton, Lauraleigh Syble Parr and Lilah Parr; two sisters – Wanda Sparks Winsted and Ann Sparks Elrod and four brothers – Clyne Sparks (Shirley), Phillip Sparks (Bonnie), W.C. Sparks (Teresa) and Ricky Sparks (Diane); a brother-in-law-Thomas Clayton; two sisters-in-law-Bettye Clayton Baughn and Julia Sparks and a host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands, L.Q. Clayton and Ed Clement and two sons, Andy Ross Clayton and Craig Alan Clayton; two brothers-Harold Sparks and Ralph Sparks and a brother-in-law-Russell Clayton.

Pallbearers will be Josh Elrod, Jake Elrod, Ronnie Cook, Ted Sparks, Mark Chumbley and Gary “Sluggo” Page.

Visitation will be Sunday, May 3, 12-1 p.m.at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

JANELL THORNE POOLE

TISHOMINGO, MS -  Janell Thorne Poole transitioned from this earthly life to her Heavenly Home on April 28, 2020 at home after a brief illness. Janell, lovingly called “Nell” was born April 27, 1961 in Red Bay, AL to the late Sam and Lula Mae Martin Thorne. She confessed hope in Christ at a young age and joined Carter’s Branch Missionary Baptist Church in Tishomingo, MS. On December 30, 1999, Nell married the love of her life, Karl Poole. She enjoyed cooking, gardening, traveling and spending time with her family. Nell had a beautiful smile and laugh that would light up any room.

Graveside services will be Saturday, May 2, 11 a.m. at Carter’s Branch Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS with Rev. Willie Bogan officiating. Burial will be in Carter’s Branch Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Nell is survived by her husband –Karl Poole, Tishomingo, MS; one sister – May Allen, Tishomingo, MS; uncles – Johnny Southward and Jeffrey Southward; aunts – Aera McDaniel, Mamie Mason, Pearline Love, Minnie Southward and Ella Farris; special cousin – Barbara Martin-Abington; a special friend and beautician – Claudette Goodloe and one nephew – Kevin Martin.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Mollie Thorne.

Visitation will be Saturday, May 2, 10-11 a.m. at Carter’s Branch Cemetery.

NELLIE PRUITT

GOLDEN, MS – Nellie Timmons “Tom” Pruitt, 77, was ushered into the Gates of Heaven and to the feet of our precious Jesus on Tuesday, April 14, 2020. She was born in Mississippi to Bonnie D. and Ruby Beam Timmons and worked at Golden Manufacturing, Golden, MS.

Known as Beloved wife, Mom, Mother, Tom, Maw Maw Tom and Mrs. Nellie, she was the strength and spiritual leader to the entire family and she was a hugger. It wasn’t unusual to see her walk up to strangers and say, “You look like you need a hug!” For all who knew her and every stranger she encountered, blessings were received from her “Sunny” personality and loving spirit. She was very devoted to her family and always found the opportunity to teach us about Jesus and how to know Him for ourselves. Her heart was full of the love of Christ. She was always prayerful that God would teach her to love as He does, and…He did just that! With a genuine heart of gold, she loved unconditionally. She was always on guard for opportunities to witness and tell everyone how good God is and has always been there for her. She fulfilled her purpose in life daily as she would introduce many to Christ through her testimony and help them see how good He is and that He loves every one of us. She wanted everyone to know how to have a personal relationship with the Father. Mom made sure that all of us girls and our late brother, Matthew, knew how to reach Jesus, love Him and have a relationship with Him. Not long ago, she was talking about how blessed she was to know that all her kids know God for themselves. She never fell short on thanking God for his love and blessings.

Coming from the Pentecostal faith, she attended Life Unlimited Church and Calvary Family Worship Center. As for Mom, though, she could pray the Holy Ghost fire down in any church she attended. She was Principal of Christ Body Academy, Golden, MS. Mom was a pillar for “Pruitt Hill”, Antioch Community and many areas beyond. It’s a good thing us girls weren’t jealous to share her, because she had a heart big enough to love everyone. She had the tendency to treat everyone as family and she loved them as if they were her own. During the past few months, we have witnessed how many people loved and respected our Mother. We know we’ve only seen the tip of the iceberg of the lives she has touched. We pray in the coming days, that we continue to encounter strangers that were touched by the life and testimony of our, Mrs. Nellie “Tom” Pruitt! Until we see her again, she is dancing and worshipping our Lord and Savior at the feet of Jesus. We rest assured that she experienced the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant”!

Our precious Mom, our selfish hearts are broken by your absence, but we know you’re forever rejoicing. Your love is spread far and wide and we know we’ll reap from that for years to come. You were by far the greatest Christian example and mother we could have ever hoped for. There will never be another like you. From us girls, the grands and great-grands…We will love you and do our best to carry on your legacy.

Graveside services will be Friday, April 17, 5 p.m. at  Hodge Cemetery, Golden, MS with Edward Garcia and Cory Pruitt officiating. Burial will be in Hodges Cemetery, Golden, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband of thirty-two years - Jerry L. Pruitt; four daughters – Sarah Pruitt, Charlotte Nelms (Robbie), Rose Gassaway (Randy) and Cindy Allison (Toby); thirteen grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a son, Matthew Pruitt, a grandson, Robbie “Little Rob” Nelms, Jr., three brothers, Ezra Timmons, Johnny “Buck” Timmons and Joe Timmons and one sister, Susie Pruitt.

Pallbearers will be Cory Pruitt, Andrew Melson, T.J. Allison, Preston Ritch, Ben Wells, Jordan Massey and Kenneth Sides.

JIMMY MCGOUGH

DENNIS, MS – Jimmy Earl McGough, 51, passed away Saturday, April 11, 2020 at the Red Bay Hospital.  He was born in the Burnout Community to R.L. and Ruth Elrod McGough.  He was a logger and member of Antioch Baptist Church.

Graveside services will be Tuesday, April 14, 5 p.m. at East Prentiss Cemetery with Bro. Donnie Wooten and Bro. David Holcomb officiating. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by two sons-Cass McGough and fiancé Paige and Colby McGough (Sandra); four sisters-Rita Smith (Mike), Betty Sue Pounders, Barbara Stidham and Martha Wood; father-in-law-Joe Barron and his special pet-Queen.

He was preceded in death by his wife-Sandy McGough; his parents and his brother-Buck McGough.

Pallbearers will be Dale Gravitt, Johnny Smith and Randy Dees.

DALTON SPARKS

BELMONT, MS – Dalton Vinson Sparks, 89, died Saturday, April 4, 2020 at his residence.  He was born in Belmont, MS to Willis Vinson and Maggie Isabell Scott Sparks.  He was retired from Sears Electronics as a supervisor where he worked for 36 years.  He was a member of Old Union Baptist Church in Verona, MS where he served as deacon for many years.

Graveside services will be Monday, April 6, 1 p.m. at Lee Memorial Park in Verona, MS with Haskell Sparks officiating. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his daughter-Judy Humphries (Steve); five grandchildren-Adam Humphries (Stephanie), Amy Larison (Joe), Josh Sparks (Terah), Becky Luker (Mark) and Caleb Sparks (Misty); fifteen great-grandchildren; two sisters-Peggy Adams (Jake) and Myra Sparks and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife-Maxine Pendegraph Sparks; two sons-Danny Sparks and Tim Sparks and several brothers and sisters.

JAN OSBORN

DENNIS, MS – Melinda Jan Osborn, 49, passed away Friday, April 3, 2020 at her residence.  She was born in Booneville, MS. She was a cosmetologist and a member of the Eastern Star.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS assisted the family.

She is survived by her husband-Lee Osborn; two children-Casey Pardue and LeeAnn Hicks Adams; her father-Nathan Wooten and her mother Maxcine Tesseneer; one sister-Debbie McMeans (Donnie); one brother-Johnny Tesseneer (Amanda) and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents-Nim and Nellie Mae Wooten; her brother-Michael Brown; her first husband-Michael Pardue and a son-in-law-Cody Adams.

RUBY WILSON

TISHOMINGO, MS – Ruby Lee Sandy Wilson, 107, passed away Wednesday, April 1, 2020, at Tishomingo Manor in Iuka, MS.  She was born in Dennis, MS to William Henry and Cora Lee Harris Sandy.  She was a homemaker and member of Maud Church of Christ.

Graveside services will be Saturday, April 4, 11 a.m. at Allen Line Cemetery with David Conley officiating.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by two daughters-Faye Robinson and Cora Taylor (Steve) both of Tishomingo; nine grandchildren-Wanda Wilson, Mitch Parrish, Phyllis Russell, Warren Taylor, Tina Robinson, Mark Taylor, Melissa Watson, Heather Palmer and Crystal Nunley; nine great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband-Sidney Bruce Wilson; her parents; one son-William D. Wilson; one daughter-Ann Wigginton; brother-M.L. Sandy and three sisters-Nadine Sandy, Beryl Coats and Faye Mann.

KELLY SPARKS

GOLDEN, MS – Kelly Dean Sparks, 71, passed away Wednesday, April 1, 2020 at his residence.  He was born in Belmont, MS and worked as an auto body painter.  He was a member of New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.

Graveside services will be Saturday, April 4, 2 p.m. at New Bethel Cemetery with Haskell Sparks officiating.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by five children-Tamara Sparks, Tony Sparks, Michelle McMinn, Lacey Crum and Emma Sparks; five grandchildren-Hunter Wigginton, Trenton Wigginton, Alex Sparks, Wyatt Smith and Blaize Smith; his wife-Tina Sparks and brothers and sisters-Jimmy Sparks, Barbara Jarnigan, Paul Jack Sparks, Charlotte Hester, Donnie Sparks and David Sparks.

He was preceded in death by his parents-Jesse Willard and Gracie Florene Newell Sparks and one brother-Phillip Sparks.

Pallbearers will be Willie Smith, Jeff Mills, Lanny Gasaway and Kevin Sparks.

LEALON YARBER

BELMONT, MS – Lealon Patterson Yarber Sr., passed away Saturday, March 28, 2020, at his residence.  He was born in Belmont to Anthony and Hallie Patterson Yarber.  He was a veteran of the US Navy serving during WWII.  He served as the Postmaster for Belmont for twenty-seven years and was an agent for Yarber Insurance.  Mr. Yarber and Rosie Weathers founded Belmont TV Cable which was the first cable service in our area.  He was a member of First Baptist Church and attended Belmont United Methodist Church.

Graveside services will be Monday, March 30, at 2 p.m. at Belmont City Cemetery with Bro. Roger Wood and Bro. Mark Nail officiating.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife of 77 years-Mabeline Yarber of Belmont; his daughter-Emily Hutcheson (Max Ray); his granddaughter-Leah Tucker (Wesley); great-granddaughter-Hallie Tucker; sister-in-law-Frances Harris and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son-Pat Yarber; two sisters-Opal Creel and Ripple Smith and two brothers-Jack Yarber and infant-Edward Yarber.

The family sends a special thank you to his caregivers and the staff of Kindred Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Methodist Children’s Homes of MS, P.O. Box 66, Clinton, MS 39060-0066 or the Baptist Children’s Village, 114 Marketridge Dr., Ridgeland, MS 39157.

FRANCES CREDILLE

BELMONT, MS – Mary Frances Credille, 77, died Thursday, March 26, 2020, at Tishomingo Manor in Iuka, MS.  She was born in Belmont to Tulon “Jack” and Oniece Clingan Credille.  She had worked at Golden Manufacturing for forty years and was a member of Fairview Holy Church of Christ.

Graveside services will be Saturday, March 28, 1 p.m. at Lindsey Cemetery, Dennis, MS with Brent Colley officiating.  A time visitation will begin noon at Lindsey Cemetery.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived five nephews- Eddie Moore (Beverly), David Credille (Angel), Brent Colley (Mandy), Jeff Long (Anna) and Jason Long; two nieces-Heather Kamarainen (Brandon) and Eugenia Pearson (Richard); great nieces and nephews-Hobie Credille, Hailey Credille Goodell, Elijah Graham, Abbey Colley, Bryant Colley, Ella Nunley, Eli Long and Sarah Beth Long; great-great nieces-Neveah Graham and Raelee Credille and one great-great nephew-Bryant Graham.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters-Gail Berry and Shery Wilson; two brothers-Hermon and Shermon Long and one niece-Becky Graham.

CHARLES POWERS

DENNIS, MS – Charles S. “Charlie” Powers, died Wednesday, March 25, 2020 at NMMC in Tupelo.  He was born in Tishomingo, MS to Darvin and Mary Simpson Powers.  He was a carpenter and member of Emmanuel Baptist Church.

Graveside services were held Thursday, March 26 at 4 p.m. at Bethlehem Cemetery in Tishomingo with Bro. Donnie Riley officiating.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS assisted the family.

He is survived by his wife Peggy Powers; four children-Michael Powers (Donna), Jeff Powers (Anna), Susan Lewis (Kevin) and Misty Hall (Robbie); eleven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two sisters-Dorlin Hall (Ron) and Jackie Walker (Pete) and two brothers-David Powers and Roger Powers (Deborah).

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother-James Powell.

RACHEL ANN FAIRES GOZA

TISHOMINGO, MS – Rachel Ann Faires Goza, 71, died Wednesday, February 26, 2020 at North Ms. Medical Center, Tupelo, MS. She was born in Lauderdale County, AL and had worked at the Iuka Shoe Factory and H.I.S. She was a member of Liberty Church of Christ, Dennis, MS.

Services will be Saturday, February 29, 3 p.m. at Liberty Church of Christ, Dennis, MS with David Conley and Ron Deaton officiating. Burial will be in Lindsey Cemetery, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband of fifty-four years – Danny Goza, Tishomingo, MS; one son – Tim Goza (Deanette) Tishomingo, MS; grandchildren – Cody Goza (Lauren), Nicole Aday (Dillon), Zach Dulaney (Cara) and Anna McMillen (Austin); two great-grandchildren – Theo Dulaney and Dulaney Ann McMillen; one brother – Garry Faires (Doris); three sisters – Quava Akins (Andy), Jewel Bain (Robert) and Sue Melton; a son-in-law – Dale Dulaney and three sisters-in-law – Sandra Faires, Ann Faires and Linda Faires.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Cleo H. and Gertie Faires; a daughter, Donna Goza Dulaney; five brothers, Granvil Faires, Freddie Faires, Glines Faires, Clyde Faires and Eddie Faires; two sisters, Shelba Faires and Sherron Faires and a brother-in-law – Leo Melton.

Pallbearers will be Cody Goza, Austin McMillen, Dillon Aday, Zach Dulaney, Jeremy Goza, Josh Goza, Scott Goza and Justin Gresham.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pine Vale Children’s Home, 1872 CR 700, Corinth, MS 38834.

Visitation will be Friday, February 28, 6-9 p.m. at Liberty Church of Christ.

SARA ELAINE SOUTH

TISHOMINGO, MS – Sara Elaine South, 70, died Monday, February 24, 2020 at her residence. She was born in Baldwyn, MS and worked as an accountant. She was a member of Tishomingo Baptist Church.

Services will be Thursday, February 27, 1 p.m. at Tishomingo Baptist Church, Tishomingo, MS with Bro. Robbie Crane officiating. Burial will be in Tishomingo City Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are two children – Kenny South (Kristi) Tishomingo, MS and Kim Brooks (Rick) DeSoto County, MS; five grandchildren – Hannah Stanley (Jacob), Noah South, Makalah Brooks, Jamie Brooks and Jordan Brooks; one great-grandchild – Maisyn Elaine Stanley and one sister – Sandi Bogardus (George).

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles C. South, her parents, Clinton Stokes and Lora Mae Smith Roper and a brother, Danny Roper.

Pallbearers will be Michael Hutcheson, Jeremy Goss, Lane White, Seth Massey, Joseph McNatt and Lee Gresham. Honorary pallbearers will be Troy Dean, Larry Webb and Ronnie Goss.

Visitation will be Thursday, February 27, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Tishomingo Baptist Church.

BRYAN SPARKS

BELMONT, MS – Bryan William Sparks, 90, passed away Saturday, February 22, 2020, at his residence.  He was born in Belmont, MS to Willis and Isabelle Scott Sparks.  He was a member of New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.  He was an original member of the Pine Ridge Boys and had the opportunity for a contract with Martha White and Sun Records but they turned it down to stay at home with their families.  He was saved in 1972 and after, started the Sparks Family Band and has played with them since.  He has recorded many albums over the years as well as authored several songs that were recorded such as “Memories”, “A Friend like Jesus”, and “Let Him Preach.” He was featured on “Mississippi Folk Life and Folk Artist Directory” in 2002.  He was well known for his love of music, family and friends.  Bluegrass music was his first love and he started playing the mandolin at seven years old and played most every day until he died at age of 90. He left a legacy of love for family and music to his grandchildren as well as the meaning of a good name.  He has spent countless hours teaching and encouraging his grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well as many others in his love of playing music.  He built the Sparks Family Music Place in memory of his son, Wade Sparks.  He has the famous “Thursday night gatherings” there for twenty years.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, February 26, at 2 p.m. at New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church with Bro. Jackie Hastings and Bro. Glenn Bridgmon officiating.  Burial will be at Sparks Family Home Place.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his four children-Patsy Ann Hastings (Jackie) of Belmont, Gerry Sparks (Sherry) of Tishomingo, Kenny Sparks (Sandra) of Vina and Rhonda Bonds (Mike) of Belmont; daughter-in-law-Judy Sparks of Belmont;  fourteen grandchildren-Sarah Peppers, Kim Waldrop, Brandon Sparks, Patrick Hastings, Chad Hastings, Andy Sparks, Anna Glenn, Beth Davis, Chelsea Wells, Austin Bonds, Kalie Faulkner, Kendra Evans, Kasey Sparks and Keenan Sparks; nineteen great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; one brother-Dalton Sparks and two sisters-Peggy Adams and Myra Sparks.

He was preceded in death by his wife-Gladys Sparks; his parents; his son-Wade Sparks; his brothers-Ross, Melton, James, Hautis, Kellus, Billy Wayne and Willie Joe Sparks and his sisters-Audrey Nunley, Elaine Wright, Ruth Ollie Sparks, Maurece Sparks and Reba Henley.

Pallbearers will be his grandsons-Patrick Hastings, Chad Hastings, Andy Sparks, Brandon Sparks, Keenan Sparks, Austin Bonds and Collin Peppers; his great-grandsons will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Visitation will be Tuesday, February 25, beginning at 5 p.m. at New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.

JERRY WAYNE WHITE

BELMONT, MS – Jerry Wayne White, 26, died Thursday, February 13, 2020. He was born in Russellville, AL and worked as a welder.

Services will be Sunday, February 16, 2 p.m. at Forrest Grove Baptist Church, Tishomingo, MS with Bro. Ron Norvell officiating. Burial will be in Sparks Family Cemetery, Iuka, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are his wife – Carley White; one daughter – Evelyn Opheia White; father – Terry White (Martha Brand); mother – Barbara Graham (Joey); brothers and sisters – Nathan Epps, Daniel Johnson, Allen Lambert, Joan Nichols, Dustin Warren, Leah White, Jason White, Kimberly Butler and September Jackson and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his uncles, Mike Morrison, Leland White, Joe White, Jessie Ray White and Dwight White.

Pallbearers will be Andrew Scott, Andrew McKee, Dustin Warren, Allen Lambert, Danny Edward Hone, Collin Williams and Corey Green.

Visitation will be Saturday, February 15, 6 p.m. until service time on Sunday at Forrest Grove Baptist Church.

DONNA JEAN GREENE

TISHOMINGO, MS – Donna Jean Greene, 70, passed away on Thursday, February 13, 2020 at the North Ms. Medical Center Hospice, Tupelo, MS. A lifelong resident of Tishomingo County, Donna Jean was born on July 9, 1949 to Semmie and Ollie Belle Greene. She was a graduate of Tishomingo High School Class of 1967. She was a dedicated employee of Genesco Shoe Plant in Iuka for thirty-one years. She enjoyed gardening, working in her flowers and collecting recipes.

Services will be Saturday, February 15, 1 p.m. at Tishomingo Baptist Church, Tishomingo, MS with Bro. Dwight South officiating. Burial will be in Belue Cemetery, Paden, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors include her sisters – Earline Dew and Delona Mae Palazola (Tony) of Memphis, TN, Arnola Hollifield (Bob) of Alexandria, VA and Patricia Greene of Tishomingo, MS; her brothers – Noonon Greene (Barbara) Collierville, TN, Tommy Greene, Larry Greene and Ronnie Greene (Lora Van Meter) Tishomingo, MS; sister-in-law – Geraldine Greene, Boaz, AL; a host of relatives, friends and a special nephew, Michael Greene Dew.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters, Louise Flurry, Ozelle Cobb and Clarie Winfield and a brother, J. C. Greene.

Pallbearers will be her nephews – David Cobb, Jimmy Cobb, Steve Dew, Dwight Greene, Ricky Greene, Roger Greene and Luke Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be Jeff Holt and members of the 1967 Tishomingo High School graduating class.

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or LeBonheur Children’s Hospital, Memphis, TN.

Visitation will be Saturday, February 15, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Tishomingo Baptist Church.

SYLVIA O. HAMILTON

IUKA, MS – Sylvia O. Hamilton, 89, died Tuesday, February 4, 2020 at Tishomingo Manor, Iuka, MS. She was born in Tishomingo County, MS and worked as a secretary for Case Power & Equipment. She was a member of Gardendale First Baptist Church, Gardendale, AL.

Services will be Friday, February 7, 12 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Donney Holley and Bro. Matthew Fancher officiating. Burial will be in Belmont City Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are three sisters – Dorothy Holley, Gardendale, AL, Shirley Goddard, Belmont, MS and Barbara Farrow, Franklin, TN; two step-sisters; one step-brother; one niece and eight nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Ruth Hamilton and her step-mother, Lois Hamilton.

Pallbearers will be David Goddard, Larry Goddard, Terry Goddard, Scott Farrow, Barry Farrow, Todd Farrow and Ronald Holley.

Visitation will be Friday, February 7, 11-12 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

MARY LOU NORTHINGTON

DENNIS, MS – Mary Lou Northington, 86, passed away Friday, January 31, 2020, at her residence.  She was born in Prentiss County, MS to B.F. and Lundie Schoggins Moreland.  She had worked at Golden Manufacturing and was a member of Liberty Church of Christ.

Funeral services will be Sunday, February 2, 2 p.m. at Liberty Church of Christ with David Conley officiating.  Burial will be in Belmont Memory Gardens.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by one son-Gary Northington of Dennis, MS; one daughter-Dianne Guin (Jim) of Marietta, MS; five grandchildren-Melody Pruitt (Jarett Taylor), Chris Phifer (Jana), Dennis Guin, Tony Guin (Jessica) and Tracy Guin (Jessica); eleven great-grandchildren-Landon Moore, Savanah Pruitt, McKeeleon Pruitt, Paige Phifer, Mia Phifer, Cade Phifer, Cory Guin, Jason Guin (Emily), Chip Guin (Emilee), Haley Beth Williams (Jacob) and Seth Guin; five great-great grandchildren-Layla Miller, Harper George, Chloe, Brinlee and Karson Guin; two sisters-in-law-Eunice Ware and Ann Yelverton (Charles); several nieces and nephews and her special caregivers-Mitzi Mitchell and Debbie Hastings.

She was preceded in death by her husband-Leon Frank Northington; her parents; sister-in-law-Ellen Sanders and three brothers-in-law-Toy, Jack and Leroy Northington.

Pallbearers will be Robert Cashion, Don Mitchell, Jimmy Northington, Randy Northington, Scott Northington and Jeff Ware.

Visitation will be Saturday, February 1, 6-9 p.m. at Liberty Church of Christ.

DORA DEAN WILLINGHAM PATTERSON

GOLDEN, MS – Dora Dean Willingham Patterson, 86, died Wednesday, January 29, 2020 at North Ms. Medical Center, Tupelo, MS. She was born in Tremont, MS and was a homemaker. She, along with her husband, Charlie Patterson, operated C & D Vegetable Patch for many years. She was a member of First Baptist Church, Belmont, MS.

Services will be Saturday, February 1, 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church, Belmont, MS with Bro. Ray Burks officiating. Burial will be in Belmont City Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are one son – Connie Patterson (Ann) Fulton, MS; three daughters – Dianne Powell (Gerald) Saltillo, MS, Denise Harrison (Harlan) Gulf Shores, AL and Charlene Castleberry (Roger) Bartlett, TN; seven grandchildren – Daniel Patterson (Amanda), Andrea Brown (Timothy), Amanda Hodge (Cody), Russell Powell (Erica), Brina Harrison, Jessica Thompson (Ryan) and Adam Castleberry (Sarah); twelve great-grandchildren – Waylon Patterson, William Patterson, Samuel Brown, Jaxon Hodge, Carrie Thompson, Anna Thompson, Carsen Thompson, Isabella Castleberry, Piper Castleberry, Harper Castleberry, Asher Castleberry and Owen Castleberry.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, Fred and Mae Willingham, one brother, Homer Willingham and one sister, Doris Massey.

Pallbearers will be Reid Gann, Stan Malone, Terrell Pearson, Mark Maroon, Mike Neighbors, Phil Byram, Edwin Bolding, Steve Ratliff, Steve Cain, Jerry McAnally and Jim Hester.

Visitation will be Friday, January 31, 5-8 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Belmont, MS.

MARVIN RAY BOYD

DENNIS, MS – Marvin Ray Boyd, 75, died Saturday, January 18, 2020 at the Iuka Hospital. He was born in Golden, MS to William and Azalee Jones Boyd.  He had worked at Sunshine Homes and was a member of New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.

Services will be Monday, January 20, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Glenn Bridgmon officiating. Burial will be in New Bethel Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are five children– Kenneth Boyd (Lisa), Red Bay, AL, Billy Boyd (Betty Wilemon), Red Bay, AL, Mildred Jackson (Brent) Phil Campbell, AL, Christine Luttrell (Danny Brock) Tishomingo, MS and Brenda Owens, Red Bay, AL; eighteen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife Maxine Boyd on December 16, 2019; his parents, and one brother, Jimmy Lee Boyd.

Pallbearers will be Christopher Boyd, Brent Lee Jackson, Billy Boyd, Kenneth Boyd, Ronnie Scott and Tony Luttrell.

Visitation will be Monday, January 20, 12-2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

AMANDA JO HIGGINBOTHAM

BELMONT, MS – Amanda Jo Higginbotham, 32, died Saturday, January 11, 2020 at the Red Bay Hospital. She was born in Coudersport, PA to Barry and Cindy Welch Fisch.

Memorial services will be Thursday, January 16, 11 a.m. at C.C. Shook Park, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS assisted the family.

Survivors are her husband – James Higginbotham; four children – Angel Salic, Brentley Higginbotham, Dallas Tyler and Maddie Jo Higginbotham; her parents – Barry and Cindy Fisch; two brothers – Robert Tyler and Thomas Tyler, Jr.; one sister – Erica Criddle; her grandmother – Anna Welch; grandfather – Oscar Tyler; three step-sisters – Jena Fisch, Jessica Fisch and Jamie McDougal and one step-brother – Jason Sekerak.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Alvin Welch, Sr.

JUDY ELAINE PATTERSON

MANTACHIE, MS – Judy Elaine Patterson, 70, died Saturday, January 11, 2020 at her brother’s residence in Tremont, MS. She was born in Franklin County, AL to Albert Noland and Paula Lorene Grisson Patterson and had worked as a caregiver.  A daughter, sister, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she loved her family, her church, singing and her God. She was a member of Open Door Worship Center, Fulton, MS.

Memorial services will be Thursday, January 16, 2 p.m. at Open Door Worship Center, Fulton, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS assisted the family.

CONNIE JEAN HOUSE

TISHOMINGO, MS – Connie Jean McNatt House, 89, was called to her heavenly home on Friday, January 10, 2020.  She was born in Tishomingo, MS on April 30, 1930 to the late Arlie and Lola McNatt.  She married the love of her life, Audie House on May 15, 1948.

Connie loved her morning coffee, spending time with family, reading her Bible and watching the local news and weather.  Her hands were rarely still, as she loved sewing, cooking and canning vegetables from the summer garden.  She also loved to attend church services at Paden Baptist Church, where she was a devoted member for many years.

“Connie Jean,” as she was lovingly called by many, was a long-time employee of Blue Bell and worked several years at Iuka Hospital in the lab.  Later, she was employed by North Mississippi Elderly Services where she served the community driving a bus to the Tishomingo State Park until she retired at the age of 77 after twenty-three years of service.

Services to celebrate her life and heavenly homecoming will be Sunday, January 12, 1 p.m. at Paden Baptist Church in Tishomingo with Bro. Kevin Rogers and Bro. Earl Barron officiating.  Burial will be in Tishomingo City Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until service time at Paden Baptist Church.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. House left behind one daughter-Debra Nunley (Joe); two granddaughters-Carla McKinney and Amber Bolton (T.J.); four great-granddaughters-Hollie and Haley McKinney and Macy and Molly Bolton; two brothers-Jerry McNatt (Bonnie) and Quthel McNatt (Sara); two sisters-Vonnie Ledgewood and Shirley Vaughn (Randy); one sister-in-law-Francis McNatt and a host of nieces and nephews all of whom she loved dearly.

She was preceded in death in 1982 by her loving husband-Audie House; four brothers-Clatus McNatt, Lakeman McNatt (Mary), Thomas McNatt (Verna) and Bill McNatt; one grandson-in-law-Buddy McKinney.

Pallbearers will be Robert Deaton, Hughie Bates, Josh McNatt, Wesley McNatt, Reed McNatt, Joseph McNatt and James Blackburn.

All whom loved her dearly will never forget the grace, love and care she always bestowed upon them.  Her family wishes to offer their thanks to Kindred Home Health and Hospice service for the care she received.

KERRY POUNDS

DENNIS, MS – Kerry Michael Pounds, 50, died Friday, January 3, 2020, at his residence in Yahoo City, MS.  He was born in Booneville, MS and was a member of the Bay Springs Masonic Lodge.  He enjoyed riding horses, hunting and spending time with his family.

Graveside services will be Monday, January 6, 4 p.m. at Lindsey Cemetery with Bro. Dustin Smith officiating.  Burial will be in Lindsey Cemetery.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his children Laken Fuller (Matt) and Brody Pounds (Mary) both of Dennis; his grandchildren-Ella Kate and Jax Fuller; his fiancé-Susan Young and her son-Brett Young; mother-Sue Barnes; sister-Christi Lambert (Brent); brother-Lee Pounds; nephews-Dustin Smith (Cilia) and Tyler Smith; great-niece-Catherine Smith; uncle-Mike Byram; cousins-Nancy and Lamar Bolton and a host of family and friends.

He was preceded in death his father-Vernon Monroe Pounds and his grandparents-Fred and Myrtle Pounds and Deck and Quay Byram.

Pallbearers will be Ronnie Eaton, Chuck Humphres, Dustin Farris, Brett Young, Jackie Gasaway and Darrin Caldwell.

Visitation will be Monday, January 6, 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

ALICE V. BANKS

GOLDEN, MS – Alice V. Banks, 87, died Saturday, December 21, 2019 at the Iuka Hospital, Iuka, MS. She was born in Burnsville, MS and taught school for over forty years. She was a member of Golden Central Baptist Church and a member of Eastern Star.

Services will be Tuesday, December 24, 12 p.m. at Golden Central Baptist Church, Golden, MS with Bro. Jackie Hastings officiating. Burial will be in Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, Red Bay, AL. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by two children – Alan Banks, Somerville, TN and Benita Crank (William) Franklin, TN; three grandchildren – Alex Banks, Lauren Banks and Sebastian Crank and two sisters – Mabel Hodges and Nora Newell (Jerry).

She was preceded in death by her husband, Huel Banks and a son, Carl Lee Banks.

Pallbearers will be Alan Banks, Michael Hodges, Alexander Banks and Bobby Hodges.

Visitation will be Monday, December 23, 6-9 p.m. at Golden Central Baptist Church.

MAXINE SCOTT BOYD

DENNIS, MS – Maxine Scott Boyd, 74, died Monday, December 16, 2019 at the Red Bay Hospital. She was born in Hodges, AL and worked at Golden Manufacturing Co., Golden, MS. She was a member of Providence Baptist Church, Tremont, MS.

Services will be Thursday, December 19, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Glenn Bridgmon officiating. Burial will be in New Bethel Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are her husband of fifty-seven years – Marvin Boyd, Dennis, MS; five children– Kenneth Boyd (Lisa), Red Bay, AL, Billy Boyd, Red Bay, AL, Mildred Jackson (Brent) Phil Campbell, AL, Christine Luttrell (Danny Brock) Tishomingo, MS and Brenda Owens, Red Bay, AL; eighteen grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two brothers – Roy Scott (Debbie) and Robert Scott (Brenda) and one sister – Margaret Miller.

She was preceded in death by her parents, J.D. and Hazel Mae Taylor Scott, three brothers, Randall Scott, James Scott and Troy Scott and one sister, Ruby King.

Pallbearers will be Christopher Boyd, Brent Lee Jackson, Billy Boyd, Ronnie Scott, Ricky Credille, Faron Credille and Brent Jackson.

Visitation will be Thursday, December 19, 12-2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

VIRGINIA D. BROWNING

DENNIS, MS –Virginia D. Browning, 86, died Tuesday, December 10, 2019 at North Ms. Medical Center Hospice, Tupelo, MS. She was born in Tishomingo County, MS and was a homemaker. She was a member of Highland Baptist Church, Tishomingo, MS.

Services will be Friday, December 13, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Mark Daily officiating. Burial will be in Tishomingo City Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband of sixty-nine years – Troy Browning, Dennis, MS; two children – Jerry Browning (Betty) Southaven, MS and Barbara Browning (Mike) Dennis, MS; three grandchildren – Daniel Browning, Tyler Browning (Paige) and Dylan Browning; one great-granddaughter – Mabry Elizabeth Browning and one sister – Rosa Nell Young, Dennis, MS.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lonnie DeSoto and Vera Hopkins Young, a brother, Harold Wayne Young and two grandchildren, Kevin and Tiffany Browning.

Pallbearers will be Daniel Browning, Tyler Browning, Dylan Browning, Mike Bohannon and Shearl Pardue. Honorary pallbearers will be Eudell Crane and Joe Browning.

Visitation will be Thursday, December 12, 6-8 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

JERRY STRICKLAND

FULTON, MS – Jerry Strickland, 71, died Saturday, December 7, 2019 at Sanctuary Hospice, Tupelo, MS.  He was born in Itawamba County, MS to Charles Allen and Janie Laverne Northcutt Strickland.  He was a member of Fulton United Methodist Church.  He taught school at Fulton Jr. High for twenty-five and half years and was the Jr. High football coach for seventeen years. He then worked as an electrician before retiring.

Services will be Tuesday, December 10 at 11 a.m. at Fulton United Methodist Church, Fulton, MS with Rev. Phillip Box and Rev. John Foster officiating. Burial will be in Old Bethel Cemetery, Golden, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by two daughters– Jennifer Jenkins (Doug) and Rebekah Carsten (Beau) all of Fulton, MS; one granddaughter – Emma Jayne Carsten; two aunts-Louise Northcutt and Ellen Barnes; three sisters-in-law – Sylvia Chamblee (Robert) Fulton, MS, Dixie Griffin (Tim) Iuka, MS and Donna McAnally (Mark) Oxford, MS; one brother-in-law – Buddy Wiltshire (Peggy) Belmont, MS; eleven nieces and nephews and his lifelong friend-Jerry Sheffield.

He was preceded in death by his wife-Nancy Phyllis Strickland; parents and his father and mother-in-law-George and Nancy Wiltshire.

Pallbearers will be Brad Chatham, Joseph Johnson, Randy Rodgers, Danny Dill, Jerry Sheffield, Dan Farrar, Stephen Hood and Jim Stone.  Honorary pallbearers will be the former Jr. High football players from 1971-1988.

Visitation will be Monday, December 9, 5-8 p.m. at Fulton United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to be made to Fulton United Methodist Church Music Ministry, P.O. Box 907, Fulton, MS 38843.

CHARLES COX

BELMONT, MS – Charles David Cox, 70 died Saturday, December 7, 2019 at Sanctuary Hospice, Tupelo, MS.  He was born in Aberdeen, MS to Charlie and Nora Pate Cox. He was retired as an engineer and was of the Baptist faith.  He was a veteran of the US Army serving during Vietnam.

Services will be Monday, December 9 at 10:30 a.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Mark Nail and Bro. J.B. Burns officiating. Burial will be in Corinth National Cemetery, Corinth, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his sister-Gayle Griffin (Hoyt) of Belmont; his brother-Richard Cox (Barbara) of Owens Crossroads, AL; two half-sisters-Denise Duggar of Guyton, GA and Lynn Duggar of Vidalia, GA; one half-brother-Bud Duggar (Sjana) of Quitman, MS and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded his sister-Jane Lyons and his parents.

Pallbearers will be Keith Griffin, Jason Garner, Robert Sewell, Wade Cox, Harold Wilson and Bud Duggar.

Visitation will be Monday, December 9, 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to be made to the charity of your choice.

CONNIE RAMONA SNELL

TISHOMINGO, MS – Connie Ramona Snell, 83, died Friday, December 6, 2019 at her residence. She was born in Jonestown, MS and attended Way of Life Church.

Services will be Sunday, December 8, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Rodney Windham officiating. Burial will be in Joel Cemetery, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are her husband – William ‘Bill” Snell, Tishomingo, MS; two children – Lori Williams and Stephen L. Snell; five grandchildren – Joshua Patterson (Sheri), Jessica Williams Blackman (Oden), Corey Snell, Wesley Stephen Snell (Haley) and Travis James Snell (Stephanie); eight great-grandchildren – Katelyn Patterson, Ryan Patterson, Malachi Snell, Serenity Snell, Braiden Blythe, Ethan Blackman, Nevaeh Blackman and Brookelyn Blackman and one brother – Frank Garza (Mary) Edmonds, WA.

She was preceded in death by a son, William Luther Snell, Jr.; her parents, Ralph and Rose Harden Garza and a brother, James Garza.

Pallbearers will be Jamie Harper, Ryan Patterson, Michael Hutcheson, Jerry Gordon, Jim Murphy and Jeff Hopkins.  Honorary pallbearers will be Corey Snell, Wesley Snell and Travis Snell.

Visitation will be Sunday, December 8, 12-2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the West Cancer Center in Corinth, MS.

RACHEL WADDLE BOLTON

BELMONT, MS – Rachel Waddle Bolton, 62, died Thursday, December 5, 2019 at the Red Bay Hospital. She was born in Tupelo, MS and was a seamstress at Lindsey & Winchester Drapery, Red Bay, AL.  She enjoyed crocheting, canning, sewing, reading, bargain shopping and spending time with family.

Services will be Monday, December 9, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Eric Crews officiating. Burial will be in Berry Cemetery, Red Bay, AL. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are her husband – Jeff Bolton, Belmont, MS; two children – Chad Pruitt, Belmont, MS and Chenoa Parrish (Edric) Dennis, MS; two step-children – Kyle Bolton, West Point, MS and Katie Crews (Eric) Tampa, FL; six grandchildren – Isabella Pruitt, Adaleah Pruitt, Khiaz-Lee Parrish, Indi Parrish, Valor Parrish and Ava Olivia Bolton; her mother – Joyce Waddle; one brother – Steven Waddle and two sisters – Patricia Bounds and Lenora Witt.

She was preceded in death by her father, Milburn D. Waddle.

Pallbearers will be Edric Parrish, Matthew Bounds, Kyle Bolton, Johnson Fowler, Eddie Witt and Michael Waddle.

Visitation will be Monday, December 9, 1-2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

WANDA BROWN MOXLEY

DENNIS, MS – Wanda Brown Moxley, 67, died Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at North Ms. Medical Center, Tupelo, MS. She was born in Iuka, MS and was a seamstress for thirty years. She attended Gospel Lighthouse Pentecostal Church, Tishomingo, MS.

Services will be Saturday, November 16, 11 a.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Bill Burcham and Vincent Goforth officiating. Burial will be in Lindsey Cemetery, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are her son – Vincent Goforth (Zulma) Dennis, MS; three grandchildren – Madilynne, Kaiden and Amelia; two brothers – Mike Brown and Ernie Brown and three sisters – Joyce Simpson, Deborah Brown and Sheree Brown.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Moxley, a sister, Fern Brown and a brother, Buddy Brown.

Pallbearers will be Russ Nunley, Jared Baxter, Nicki Highland, Mike Brown, Megan Highland and Dustin Maxwell. Honorary pallbearers will be Ryker Watson and Ernie Brown.

Visitation will be Friday, November 15, 6-9 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

NANCY DICKERSON WILTSHIRE

BELMONT, MS – Nancy Dickerson Wiltshire, 94, died Monday, November 11, 2019 at North Ms. Medical Center Hospice, Tupelo, MS. She was born in Attala County, MS and was a homemaker. She was a member of Belmont United Methodist Church for fifty years.

Services will be Friday, November 15, 11 a.m. at Belmont United Methodist Church, Belmont, MS with Bro. Ronnie Goodwin and Bro. Mark Nail officiating. Burial will be in Belmont City Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by four children – Sylvia Chamblee (Robert) Fulton, MS, Dixie Griffin (Tim) Iuka, MS, George D. “Buddy” Wiltshire (Peggy) Belmont, MS and Donna McAnally (Mark) Oxford, MS; thirteen grandchildren – Jenny Jenkins (Doug), Becky Carsten (Beau), Rob Chamblee, Jr., Kate Neal (Travis), Lee Griffin (Holly), Anna-Claire Griffin, Madelyn Griffin, Emily Schallock (Marcus), Allison Wiltshire, Wesley Wiltshire, Lauren Moore (Harrison), Jake McAnally and Carlee McAnally; one great-grandchild – Emma Jayne Carsten; son-in-law – Jerry Strickland and sister-in-law – Elizabeth “Tac” Dickerson.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George Lee Wiltshire, a daughter, Phyllis Strickland, brothers, Wesley Dickerson, Hubert Dickerson and Jack Dickerson and sisters, Louise Wilson, Mary Greenwood and Lorraine Grantham.

Pallbearers will be Rob Chamblee, Lee Griffin, Jake McAnally, Wesley Wiltshire, Doug Jenkins, Travis Neal, Beau Carsten, Harrison Moore and Marcus Schallock.

The family wishes to extend thanks to her special friend, Mildred Clark, caregivers, Wanda Winsted, Cathy Brazile and Shirley Bostick, Southern Magnolia Estates in Golden, MS and The Courtyards in Fulton, MS.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

Visitation will be Thursday, November 14, 6-8 p.m. and 10-11 a.m. on Friday, November 15, at Belmont United Methodist Church, Belmont, MS.

SHARON KAYE WALLS

TISHOMINGO, MS –Sharon Kaye Walls, 62, died Saturday, November 2, 2019 at her residence. She was born in Red Bay, AL and was a homemaker.

Services will be Saturday, November 9, 1 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Scot George officiating. Burial will be in Dennis Memory Gardens, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband – Kevin Walls, Tishomingo, MS; four children – Jessica Faulkner (Samuel) Seattle, WA, Heather Hill (Jerry) Dennis, MS, Amanda Mills (Mark) Belmont, MS and Tiffany Wells (Levi) Tishomingo, MS; three brothers – Chester George (Joyce), Glenn Collins (Helen) and Ben George (Kim); one sister – Angie Stephens (Mike); five grandchildren – Austin Hill (Tona), Caleb Hill, Brandon Hill, Addison Mills and Braxton Wells and two great-grandchildren – Abby Claire Hill and Hank McNutt.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Vester George and Beluah Mae Finch, a daughter, Rebecca Taylor, a granddaughter, Miranda Mills and a sister, Brenda George.

Pallbearers will be Jimmy Studdard, Barry Rogers, Alex Ashley, Cody Wooten, Cole Wells and Blake Bowling.

Visitation will be Friday, November 8, 6-9 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

JOY NEAL STRICKLAND

TISHOMINGO, MS - Joyce “Joy” Neal Strickland departed this life on October 29, 2019 at her residence in Tishomingo after a long illness. She was born in 1931 to Daniel Judson and Audrey Neal. She was a former employee of Blue Bell, Inc. of Belmont and Tishomingo. She was married for thirty-five years to E.W. “Pro” Strickland until his death in 1983. She was a faithful member of Tishomingo Baptist Church where she had been the longest living member until her death.

Services will be Thursday, October 31, 3 p.m. at Tishomingo Baptist Church with Bro. Rusty Fair and Royce Howie officiating. Burial will be in Tishomingo Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by four daughters - Sandra Howie (Royce) of Iuka, Brenda Webb (Larry) of Tishomingo, Sharon Quinn (Rick) of Corinth and Betty Jo Williams (Steve) of Corinth, MS; six grandchildren - Brad Howie (Cindy), Laura Smith (William), David Webb (Angel), Matt Quinn (Jessica), Jordan Quinn (Angel) and Mallory Williams; nine great-grandchildren- Colten and Calli Howie, Judson and Collin Webb, Angel Joy Smith, Braxton and Hudson Quinn, Brodie and June Grace Quinn; one sister -Ettie Jean Murff, Kansas City, MO and caregivers, Jean Kennedy and Barbara Ales.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, grandson, Tyler Judson Quinn, an infant great- grandchild, Mary Katherine Smith, one brother, Harold Dwight Neal and one sister, Frances Kennedy.

Pallbearers will be grandsons, Brad and Colten Howie, David Webb, Matt and Jordan Quinn and Kent McClung.

Visitation will be Thursday, October 31, 1-3 p.m. at Tishomingo Baptist Church.

WILLIE THORNE, JR.

CHEROKEE, AL – Willie Thorne, Jr., departed this life on Monday, October 14, 2019, at his home in Cherokee, Alabama surrounded by family and friends.  Willie was born September 29, 1949, to the late Willie Jack and Dorothy (Rogers) Thorne in Cherokee, Alabama.  He confessed a hope in Christ at an early age and joined the Liberty Baptist Church in Alsboro, Alabama.  He completed Jobcorp in 1969, where he trained in Auto Mechanics, Carpentry and Machine operations.  On May 29, 1971 he married Elizabeth Jeannette Johnson.  While married, Willie worked as a foreman and heavy machine operator during the construction of the Tennessee Tombigbee Waterway.  He later started his own business, “Willie Thorne & Son Construction Company.”

Willie later joined Ekklesia Ministries in Sheffield, Alabama, where he served on the Deacon Board and was a faithful member until his health failed him.

Willie was an avid outdoorsman, who loved fishing, hunting, carpentry, and restoring vintage cars in his free time.

Willie loved his family with all his heart and soul.  He enjoyed hosting BBQ’s and fish fries for family and friends and was famously known for his fried catfish and homemade hushpuppies.

Willie especially loved traveling with his family around the U.S. and attending the annual Thorne family reunion, which he attended faithfully for over 35 years until his health failed in the summer of 2019.

He was a friend to all and one who never met a stranger.  He mentored and counseled struggling youth and often offered food, shelter, and a job to many people in need.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory, his wife of 48 years, Elizabeth Jeannette Thorne; one son, Willie Terrell Thorne; six daughters, Sabrina Lowery (Chris), Brandi Patterson (Otis), Kamiya Waddle (Wayne), Natoria Tensley (Von), Tiffany Bennett and Tammy Simmons (Derrick); two brothers, Dwight Thorne (Vivian), Kennedy Thorne; three sisters, Earnestine Walker, Doris Boulrece, Joann Thomas (Anderson); sixteen grandchildren; two great grandchildren and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and special friends; two very special nieces, Donna Jean Thorne & Tammi Johnson; two very special nephews, Justin “Bishop” Alexander and Jerome Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Jack & Dorothy Thorne; one son, Willie Tyrome Thorne; four sisters, Myra Thorne, Ethel Cannon, Landers Coburn, Jurlene Thorne; one brother, Bobby Thorne.

Services will be Saturday, October 19, 3 p.m. at Gospel Lighthouse Pentecostal Church, Tishomingo, MS with Apsotle Kobee Fitzgerald officiating. Burial will be in Tishomingo Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

MARY ANN BRAZIL

GOLDEN, MS – Mary Ann Jackson Roberts Brazil, 82, died Tuesday, October 15, 2019 at The Meadows, Fulton, MS. She was born in Tishomingo County, MS and was a factory worker at Golden Manufacturing. She was a joint member of Old Bethel Methodist Church and Chapel Hill Church of God of Prophecy.

Services will be Thursday, October 17, 2 p.m. at Old Bethel Methodist Church, Golden, MS with Bro. Donnie Riley, Bro. Steve Kennedy and Bro. Charlie Summerford officiating. Burial will be in Old Bethel Cemetery, Golden, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are four children – Terry Stanley (Shelly) Golden, MS, Joe Roberts (Teiah) Red Bay, AL, Linda Pruitt (Terry) Golden, MS and Reggie Roberts, Dennis, MS; seven grandchildren – Tasha Strickland (Rodney), Chad Helton (Kelsey Bentley), Josh Stanley (Wendy), Jacob Stanley (Hannah), Adam Howell (Delilah), Brody Roberts and Cayden Roberts and nine great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by husbands, Arthur Lee Roberts and Harlon Brazil; her parents, John and Florence Whitehead Jackson; a brother, Troy Jackson and two sisters, Annie Jackson and Louverdie Roberts.

Pallbearers will be Josh Stanley, Jacob Stanley, Chad Helton, Brody Roberts, Brock Dexter and Colton Gilliland. Honorary pallbearers will be David Roberts, Donald Ray Thomas, Ray Lynch, Jack Ivy, Rodney Strickland, Clyne Pounders and Tony Jackson.

Visitation will be Wednesday, October 16, 6-9 p.m. at Old Bethel Methodist Church.

WILLIE THORNE, JR.

CHEROKEE, AL – Willie Thorne, Jr., 70, died Monday, October 14,2019 at his residence.Services will be Saturday, October 19, 3 p.m. at Gospel Lighthouse Pentecostal Church, Tishomingo, MS. Visitation will be Friday, October 18, 6-9 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS and he will lie in state Saturday, October 19, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the church. Burial will be in Tishomingo Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

TOMMIE LEE "BILLY" POWELL

TISHOMINGO, MS – Tommie Lee “Billy” Powell, 77, passed away Sunday, October 13, 2019 at North Ms. Medical Center, Iuka, MS. He was born to the late Ben Powell, Sr. and Nina Powell on December 19, 1941. He joined the church at an early age and remained a faithful member at Carter’s Branch Missionary Baptist Church until his health failed. His dedicated services at the church included Chairman of the Deacon Board and Choir President for many years. He attended Carter’s School, Tishomingo, MS, Wick Anderson, Booneville, MS and Carter’s High School, Tishomingo, MS.

He enjoyed singing in the choir, hunting and fishing. He was amiably known as the community barber. His love for the youth afforded him a leadership role in the 4-H Club and Boy Scouts of America. He was retired from Reynolds Metals Alloy, Sheffield, AL.

Services will be Saturday, October 19, 12 p.m. at Carter’s Branch Missionary Baptist Church, Tishomingo, MS with Reverend Anthony Welch officiating. Burial will be in Carter’s Branch Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors include his devoted wife of fifty-five years, Myrtis Powell; a loving daughter – Charlotte Powell, both of Tishomingo, MS; four brothers, George (Luevenia) Powell, Ezekiel (Edna) Powell, John (Gerniece) Powell and Bobby (Mildred) Powell, all of Tishomingo, MS; five sisters, Christine (Jimmy) Southward, Virginia Bennett and Margarete (Willie) Robinson, all of Tishomingo, MS; Earnestine (William) Southward of Cherokee, AL and Marvelene Selby of Jackson, MI, a godson, Tre’ Grizzard of Tishomingo, MS; one sister-in-law, Ila Powell of Tishomingo, MS and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Ben Powell, Jr. and Willis (Louise) Powell and one sister, Mary (James) Robinson.

Pallbearers will be Randall Southward, Jeffery Powell, Greg Brock, Gwen Powell, David Southward, Donnie Robinson, Jerry Young, Derrick Southward, Derrick Brock, Doran Bennett, Eric Powell, Timothy Southward, Darryl Southward, Billy Ray Young, James Thorne, Craig Powell, DeShaun Powell, Jonathan Powell, Jason Powell, Larry Young and Stephen Powell. Honorary pallbearers will be deacons of Carter’s Branch Missionary Baptist Church.

Visitation will be Saturday, October 19, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Carter’s Branch Missionary Baptist Church.

GOLDEN, MS – Roger Keith Wanner, 65, died Sunday, October 6, 2019 at North Ms. Medical Center, Iuka, MS. He was born in Booneville, MS and was a factory worker.  He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church, Belmont, MS.

Services will be Wednesday, October 9, 7 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church with Bro. Barry Holcomb officiating. Burial will be in Belmont Memory Gardens, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by three children – Tisha Kiddy, Corinth, MS, Zack Wanner, Belmont, MS and Tara Wanner Humphres (Wayne) New Site, MS; three grandchildren – Cameron Dexter, Chandler Dexter and Brooke Dexter; his mother – Flora Wanner, Belmont, MS; three brothers – Matthew Wanner (Lisa) Hamilton, AL, Rick Wanner, Booneville, MS and Mark Wanner (Pam) Tishomingo, MS and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Patsy Wanner, his father, Ralph Wanner and a sister-in-law – Paula Wanner.

Pallbearers will be Donnie Mac Wanner, Tommy Nunley, Terry Wooten, Sammy Thorn, Jamie Wanner and Bob McCalpin. Honorary pallbearer will be Greg Pharr.

Visitation will be Wednesday, October 9, 4-7 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church.

L. C. BRIDGES

DENNIS, MS – L.C. Bridges, 88, died Friday, September 27, 2019, at NMMC in Tupelo, MS.  He was born in Monroe County, MS to Leo and Viola Holder Bridges.  He was a welder and was a member of Old Union Baptist Church.

Funeral services will be Sunday, September 29, 3 p.m. at Old Union Baptist Church with Bro. Jerry Ginn officiating.  Burial will be in Old Union Cemetery.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by five children-Brenda Mann of Belmont, Lonny Bridges (Teresa) of Iuka, Ricky Bridges (Kay) of Eupora, Vickie Hardy (Jerry) of Dennis and Sue Pruitt (Allan) of Golden; fifteen grandchildren-Daniel, Leigha, Laura, Beth, Lisa, Jason, Sheena, Swayze, Jerry Dale, Geneva, Allena, April, William, Kayla and Wanda;  twenty great-grandchildren; two sisters-Mary Shebinek and Lola Penrod and one brother-James Bridges.

He was preceded in death by his wife-Adell Fowler Bridges; his parents and three sisters-Clytee Hipwell, Louise Kirk and Lorine Bridges.

Pallbearers will be Jerry Dale Hardy, Jason Bridges, Daniel Mann, William Pruitt, Todd Johnson, Ronnie Fowler, Tommy Fowler and Daniel Beasley.

Visitation will be Saturday, September 28 from 6-9 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home and he will lie-in-state Sunday from 2-3 p.m. at Old Union Baptist Church.

Stanley Wade Credille

PLANTERSVILLE, MS – Stanley Wade Credille, 79, passed away Friday, September 20, 2019, at NMMC Tupelo.  He was born in Belmont, MS to Lolan and Audrey Credille.  He was retired from Burton Golf in Fort Walton Beach, FL and he worked for Golf Bag Co. for over forty years.  He was a member of First Baptist Church in Plantersville, MS.

Funeral services will be Monday, September 23, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Danny Balint and Bro. James Segars officiating.  Burial will be in Belmont City Cemetery.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife Linda Mayhall Credille of Plantersville; one son-Anthony Allen Credille of Mary Esther, FL; one grandson-Hunter Allen Credille of Fort Walton Beach, FL; one granddaughter-Tanya Credille of Pontotoc, MS; two great-grandchildren and host of cousins and friends.

He is preceded in death by his son-Mickey Wade Credille; his parents and one sister-Ellen Segars.

Pallbearers will be Gerald Wigginton, J.P. Wilemon, Jr., Clyne Pounders, Joe Credille, Ricky Credille and Farron Credille.  Charles Ray Searcy will serve as honorary pallbearer.

Visitation will be Monday, September 23, 10-2 at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

BELMONT, MS – Edna Charlene Dishman, 72, died Monday, September 9, 2019 at the Red Bay Hospital. She was born in Tishomingo County, MS and was a homemaker. She was of the Baptist faith.

Services will be Thursday, September 12, 11 a.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Donnie Wooten officiating. Burial will be in Belmont City Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband – Ralph Dishman; two sons – Calvin Blackburn and Carl Blackburn; two grandchildren – Haley Blackburn and Courtney Jackson; two brothers – Erroll Credille and Larry Credille and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Charlotte Jackson and two brothers, Randall Credille and David Credille.

Pallbearers will be Daniel Credille and Calvin Blackburn.

Visitation will be Wednesday, September 11, 6-8 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

JESSIE MERLIN LUCAS

TISHOMINGO, MS – Jessie Merlin Lucas, 71, died Thursday, September 5, 2019 at his residence. He was born in Fairview, MS and was a truck driver. He attended Old Union Baptist Church, Belmont, MS.

There will be no funeral service. Visitation will be Friday, September 6, 5-7 p.m. at Old Union Baptist Church. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Golden, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS assisted the family.

He is survived by his wife of fifty years – Wanda Lucas, Tishomingo, MS; three daughters – Molly Stidham (Clifton), Shawnie Young and Sabrina Hopson; seven grandchildren; four brothers – Frankie Lucas, Roger Lucas, Wayne Lucas and Roy Lee Lucas and one sister – Monlue Burks.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Emise and Velvie Keeton Lucas and a grandchild.

WILLIAM C. BOLTON

BELMONT, MS – William C. Bolton, 71, died Thursday, August 22, 2019 at his residence. He was born in Belmont, MS and was an automobile body painter. He was a member of Old Union Baptist Church, Belmont, MS.

Services will be Saturday, August 24, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Jerry Ginn officiating. Burial will be in Old Union Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are his wife of fifty-two years – Sandra Bolton, Belmont, MS; son – Randy Bolton (Michelle) Belmont, MS; two granddaughters – Whitney Day (Michael) and Mackenzie Bolton (Blake) all of Belmont, MS; three great-grandchildren – Alexis, Tucker and Madeline; three brothers – Thomas Bolton (Gail), Billy Bolton (Shelia) and Larry Bolton (Sherry); one sister – Brenda Bolton Smith (Sean Halm) and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Vernon “Bill” Bolton, his mother, Vera Wydell Bolton, two sisters, one brother and four nephews.

Pallbearers will be Michael Day, Blake Sullivan, Parker Bolton, Jay McGee and T.J. Bolton. Honorary pallbearers will be Bruce Smith, B.J. Moody and Wayne Levoy.

Visitation will be Friday, August 23, 6-9 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

RENELDA PATTERSON HOPKINS GRUBBS

DENNIS, MS – Renelda Patterson Hopkins Grubbs, 80, died Tuesday, August 20, 2019 at North Ms. Medical Center Hospice, Tupelo, MS. She was born in Dennis, MS and worked in garment manufacturing. She was a member of Highland Baptist Church, Tishomingo, MS.

Graveside services will be Wednesday, August 21, 5 p.m. at Lindsey Cemetery, Dennis, MS with Bro. Mark Daily officiating. Burial will be in Lindsey Cemetery, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by four children – Janet Grubbs, Angelia Petree (Bill), Wendell Grubbs and Tony Grubbs; three grandchildren – Haley Humphres (Jonathan), Alyssa Grubbs and Mauri Jo Grubbs; two great-grandchildren – Justin and Blaklei; three sisters – Myra Dean (Troy), Lena Bennett (Bryson) and Shelia Potts (Phil); one brother – Royce Hopkins (Sandra) and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James Lester and Daisy Hopkins.

Pallbearers will be Ricky Hopkins, Justin Martin, Tommy Dean, Jonathan Humphres, Justin Humphres and Hunter Scruggs.

Visitation will be Wednesday, August 21, 4-5 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

TOMMIE JOE CORNELIUS

TISHOMINGO, MS - Tommie Joe Cornelius was born on January 17, 1938 to Thomas Webster Cornelius and Zelma Irene (Babe) Cornelius in Tishomingo, MS. Tommie graduated from Tishomingo High School.  He served in the United States Army, where he reached the rank of sergeant before being honorably discharged to return home to care for his mother and younger siblings.  Tommie worked for thirty-five years in the trucking industry prior to retiring from Cornelius Sales.

His passions included spending time with his family, working in his garden, helping his community, watching movies and bossing people around (especially his wife!).  Tommie was a member of Tishomingo Baptist Church and an officer and active member in the American Legion Post 144. Tommie was a great husband, father, brother, and Paw.   He always made time to spend with others, offer a friendly smile and a humorous comment.

Memorial services will be Thursday, August 15, 1 p.m. at Tishomingo Baptist Church with Bro. Rusty Fair and Michael Cornelius officiating. Visitation will be Thursday, August 15, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Tishomingo Baptist Church. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Tommie leaves his beloved wife of fifty-two years, Edna Harris Cornelius, his three daughters, Carolynn Ferguson (Ray) of Memphis, TN, Nancy Nelson (special friend Paul) of Collierville, TN and Shara Krag (Kerry) of Memphis, TN and his son,  Michael Cornelius (Amy) of Arlington, TN.  He leaves behind his sister, Judy Shifflett of Tishomingo, MS and his brother, Tim Cornelius of Las Vegas, NV.  Tommie had eight grandchildren, Alan (Lydia) and Brian (Lindsey) Ferguson, Colleen Jones (RJ), Joslyn and Amelia Watermeier, Thomas, Carter and Davis Cornelius.  Tommie had three great-grandsons, Landon, Donovan and Adrian.  He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Jimmy Cornelius and his sister, Shelia Latham.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be made to the American Legion Post 144, Tishomingo, MS.  https://www.legion.org/memorials/243721/tishomingo-county-veterans-memorial

BILLY JACK EARNEST

BELMONT, MS – Billy Jack Earnest, 70, died Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at Sanctuary Hospice, Tupelo, MS. He was born in Belmont, MS and was an auto body shop painter.

There will be no funeral services. Visitation will be Friday, August 9, 4-8 p.m. at Dennis First Baptist Church, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS assisted the family.

Survivors are his daughter – Teresa Harris, Belmont, MS; four grandchildren – Aleshia Harris, Caitlyn Petree (Richard), Kameron Earnest and Sophie Harris; three great-grandchildren – C.J. Crowder, Raelynn Saylors and Bryson Petree; three sisters – Dorothy Jane Rogers, Polly Hammett and Virginia Cochran and two brothers – Wayne Earnest and Deelane Earnest.

He was preceded in death by a son, Billy Joe Earnest; his parents, Talmadge Thurman and Ethel Lynch Earnest and a brother, Jerry Neal Earnest.

GEORGE RAYMOND GATTIS

TISHOMINGO, MS – George Raymond Gattis, 87, passed away Thursday, August 1, 2019 at Southern Magnolia in Golden, MS. He was born in Tishomingo County, MS and was retired from Reynolds Metals Co. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and was a member of Highland Baptist Church, Tishomingo, MS. He loved gardening and spending time with his family.

Services will be Sunday, August 4, at 3 p.m. at Highland Baptist Church, Tishomingo, MS with Bro. Mark Daily and Brendix Glasgow officiating. Burial will be in Highland Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by one son – Kenny Gattis (Ramona) Golden, Ms.; one grandson– Brian Gattis (Scarlett) Tishomingo, MS; two granddaughters – Stephanie Stewart (Kyle) Austin, TX and Kayla Owens (Jacob) Dennis, MS; seven great-grandchildren – Caleb and Chloe Stewart of Austin, TX,  London, Mahlon and Charleston Gattis of Tishomingo, MS and Jax and Jace Owens of Dennis, MS and one sister – Edna Ruth Durham Hamby.

He was preceded in death by his wife of sixty-one years, Jean Halcomb Gattis, his parents, George and Maudie Johnson Gattis; five brothers, Howard, Woodrow, Wilmer, Ben and Thomas Gattis and seven sisters, Lottie Bell Lambert, Christine Dempsey, Irene Neal, Geraldine Bostick, Hazel McAlister, Evelyn Poole and Mildred Gasaway.

Pallbearers will be Rick Gattis, Don Gattis, Danny Durham, Dennis Durham, Jimmy Poole and Jackie Poole. Honorary pallbearers will be Allen Dunkin, Larry Durham, Tom Gattis, David Gattis and Gary Bostick.

Visitation will be Sunday, August 4, 1-3 p.m. at Highland Baptist Church.

WAYNE LOWE

IUKA, MS – Wayne Lowe, 77, died Monday, July 29, 2019 at North Ms. Medical Center, Iuka, MS. Born in Birmingham, AL, he was a self-employed contractor and a veteran of the U.S. Army.

Memorial services will be announced at a later date. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS assisted the family.

He is survived by two children – Melanie Beene and Kayla Hill (Tim), all of Tishomingo, MS; five grandchildren – Devin Starkey (Laikyn), Chelsey Starkey, Ty Starkey, Ally Hill and Marlee Hill; one great-grandson – Asher Starkey and one sister – Carolyn Barnes.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Effie Bailey Lowe.

CAROLYN WORKS

BELMONT, MS – Carolyn S. Works, 66, died Saturday, July 27, 2019 at the Iuka Hospital.  She was born in Itawamba County, MS to James Arlin and Evelyn Baggett Rollins.  She had worked at Blue Bell for many years and was a member of Golden Central Baptist Church.  She and her husband Jim Works owned and operated Willow Lane Auto and Wrecker Service.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, July 30, 1 p.m. at Golden Central Baptist Church with Bro. Matthew Fancher officiating.  Burial will be in Belmont City Cemetery.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her son-Danny Works (Melissa) of Golden; her grandson-Austin Works of Belmont; four sisters-Christine Allen of Golden, Joyce Rich (Bob) of Dennis, Betty Mahan (Winkle) and Geraldine Holcomb (Allen) all of Belmont and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband-James A. “Jim” Works, Jr.; her parents; brother-in-law-Charles Allen and father-in-law-James A. Works, Sr.

Pallbearers will be Junior Hutcheson, Randy Allen, Tim Mahan, Jeff Mahan, David Holcomb and Mike Rich.

Visitation will be Monday, July 29, 6-9 at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS and she will lie-in-state from 11-1 on Tuesday at Golden Central Baptist Church.

ELIZABETH ANN CLINGAN

DENNIS, MS – Elizabeth Ann Clingan, 64, died Wednesday, July 24, 2019 at her residence. She was born in Red Bay, AL and was a lab assistant at Iuka Hospital for thirty-five years. She was a member of Highland Baptist Church, Tishomingo, MS.

Services will be Friday, July 26, 2 p.m. at Highland Baptist Church, Tishomingo, MS with Bro. Mark Daily officiating. Burial will be in Highland Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband of forty years – Kenneth Clingan, Dennis, MS; three sisters - Susie Roberson, Belmont, MS, Lynn Gattis (Rick) Dennis, MS and Denise Harden (Terry) Red Bay, AL; several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews and one sister-in-law – Debra Clark (Dave) Paducah, KY.

She was preceded in death by her parents, A.C. and Sarah McRae Hammett.

Pallbearers will be Jack Gattis, Corey Roberson, Shannon Roberson, Terry Harden, Richard Clingan and Rick Gattis. Honorary pallbearer will be Josh Trulove.

Visitation will be Friday, July 26, 12-2 p.m. at Highland Baptist Church, Tishomingo, MS.

KARRON “GAIL” DAVIS

MUSCLE SHOALS, AL – Karron “Gail” Davis, 73, died Thursday, July 11, 2019 at Cottage of the Shoals, Tuscumbia, AL. She was born in Colbert County, AL and was a homemaker. She was a member of the Church of Christ.

Graveside services will be Saturday, July 13, 11 a.m. at Lindsey Cemetery, Dennis, MS with Bro. Steven Butler officiating. Burial will be in Lindsey Cemetery, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are one daughter – Karron Trotti, Tuscumbia, AL; three grandchildren – Krystle Bradley, Katie Flannagin (Matthew) and Kelli Trotti; one great-granddaughter – Kallie Bates and two brothers – Bobby Lindsey and Allan Lindsey.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Haskell and Ruby Carr Lindsey, a brother, Clifford Lindsey and a sister-in-law, Patricia Lindsey.

Pallbearers will be Bobby Lindsey, Allan Lindsey, Phillip Richardson, Matthew Flannagin, Donnie Cansler and Joey Pate.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Kruzn For A Kure Foundation, kruznforakurefoundation.com.

BROOKE McGILL

BELMONT, MS – Kasadee Brooke McGill, 22, died Tuesday, July 2, 2019 in Savannah, TN. She was born in Corinth, MS and was a translator.

Services will be Monday, July 8, 11 a.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Barry Holcomb officiating. Burial will be in Highland Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are a son – Elijah McGill, Belmont, MS; her mother – Gwen Hester (Mitch) Belmont, MS; father – Jamie McGill (Michelle) Fairview, MS; one sister – Jaycee McGill; step-brothers and step-sisters – Josh, Megan and Hallie Hester, Haley Williams and Dacey Burns and her grandparents – Mickey and Donna McGill.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Durward and Bonnie Durham.

Visitation will be Sunday, July 7, 5-8 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

BOBBY D. MAXWELL

BELMONT, MS – Bobby D. Maxwell, 86, died Wednesday, July 3, 2019, at NMMC Hospice in Tupelo, MS.  He was born in Dennis, MS to Gerome Lillian and Lottie Sartain Maxwell.  He was a certified welder and attended the Church of God of Prophecy.

Funeral services will be Saturday, July 6, 1 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. James Herman Gray and Bro. Donnie Wooten officiating.  Burial will be in Joel Cemetery.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by one daughter-Sandra Leathers-Belmont, MS; two sons-Robert Maxwell (Helen) of Tishomingo and Wayne Maxwell (Connie) of Lewisville, TX; five granddaughters-Angie Patterson (Bobby), Christy, Kimberly, Amber and Brandi Maxwell; three great-grandchildren-Isiah, Kurtland and Jasmine Patterson and a host of special nieces, special nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by three wives-Dorothy Maxwell, Betty Maxwell and Darlene Maxwell; four sisters-Lavelle Hawkins, Letra Wright, Flonnie Ford and Florene Ables; three brothers-Freeman, Floyd and Flavis Maxwell and a son-in-law-Sonny Leathers.

Pallbearers will be Bobby Patterson, Stephen Embrey, Larry Maxwell, Mark Lovelace, Larry Wooten and Steven Wooten. Honorary pallbearers will be his great-grandchildren-Isiah Patterson, Kurtland Patterson and Jasmine Patterson.

Visitation will be Saturday, July 6, 11-1 at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

MARTHA LORRAINE “SISSY” ABEL

TISHOMINGO, MS – Martha Lorraine “Sissy” Abel, 56, died Tuesday, July 2, 2019 at her residence. She was born in Oxford, MS and was a homemaker. She attended Walker Baptist Church.

Services will be Friday, July 5, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Andy Barnett officiating. Burial will be in Tishomingo City Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are her husband of thirty-eight years – Johnny Abel, Tishomingo, MS; five children – Jamie Abel (Reagan), Keith Abel (Khristan), Jeremy Abel, Johnny Abel (Shandale) and Kane Abel; ten grandchildren – Zach, Zane, Zander, Keeton, Tucker, Bryson, Ruger, Sailor, Maddux and Glavine; three brothers – Buddy Shoffner (Angie), Ricky Shoffner (Ranona) and Richard Shoffner and one sister – Donna Clark.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William Edward and Martha Louise Odum Shoffner and a brother, James Thomas Shoffner.

Pallbearers will be Ricky Shoffner, Buddy Shoffner, Bryson Abel, Zach Abel, Scott Appearson and Dusty Goforth.

Visitation will be Thursday, July 4, 3-6 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

LINDA REID ABLES

DENNIS, MS – Linda Reid Ables, 71, died Monday, July 1, 2019 at her residence. She was born in Tishomingo County, MS and worked in garment manufacturing. She was a member of Jordan Hill Church of God of Prophecy.

Services will be Wednesday, July 3, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS. Burial will be in Joel Cemetery, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband of fifty-five years – Jasper Ables, Dennis, MS; three children – Joe Ables (Debbie), Lucretia Blakney and Cindy Shewbart, all of Dennis, MS; seven grandchildren – Amanda Brewer (Brad), Bradley Shewbart, Dalton Ables (Whitley), Wesley Hollis, Holden Shewbart, Alanda Johnson and John Johnson and five great-grandchildren – Alex Brewer, Anna-Bell Johnson, Braiden Henson, Kylee Eaton and Madyson Davis.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Kennie Reid and Maudie Castleberry Reid, a daughter, Loretta Ables, two grandchildren, Nick Moss and Stephanie Ables, a brother, Edward Reid, a sister, Alma Sartain, her father and mother-in-law, Audie and Audrie Ables, a sister-in-law, Linda Ashley and a brother-in-law, Mike Ables.

Pallbearers will be grandsons – Bradley Shewbart, Dalton Ables, Wesley Hollis, Holden Shewbart, John Johnson and Brad Brewer.

Visitation will be Tuesday, July 2, 6-9 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

JIMMY WAYNE “JIM” PRUITT

GOLDEN, MS – Jimmy Wayne “Jim” Pruitt, 75, was born on September 17, 1943 to the late William Leo Pruitt and Erma Lou Pruitt. He died peacefully at home on “Pruitt Hill” with family by his side on Sunday, June 30, 2019.

Jim was a staple of the Pruitt Hill community and was loved by many. He was a beloved dad, brother, uncle, “front porch sitting” friend to all the local men and the best PawPaw Jim to his grandchildren. He was Dad! A man with the most tender, humble heart and a God-fearing Christian of the Pentecostal faith. He grew up in the cotton fields of rural Itawamba County and was not one to back down from the challenge of hard work. He made a living primarily as a carpenter but was a “jack of all trades”. Jim was a man with much knowledge about many things in life. He was a constant source of advice and information to his children and he made a huge impact in the lives of his family, friends and people of neighboring communities. He will be missed at the Sunday morning talk sessions with the locals.

The Celebration of Life service will be Tuesday, July 2, 2 p.m. at Calvary Family Worship Center, 369 Ridge Road, Golden, MS. with Bro. David Kelley officiating. Burial will be in Hodge Cemetery, Golden, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors include his children – Sarah Miller, Charlotte Nelms (Robbie), Rose Gassaway (Randy) and Cindy Allison (Toby). Not only was he blessed with sixteen grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren, but he also had one sister, Elaine Ashley and two brothers, Jerry Pruitt (Nellie “Tom”) and John Pruitt (Debi). Along with several nieces and nephews, he had a special friend, Edith “Sweetie” Pitts.

He was preceded in death by his son, Matthew Pruitt,one grandson, Robbie "Little Rob" Nelms, Jr., his father William Leo and his mother, Erma Worthy Pruitt, three brothers, Ruble Pruitt, Gene Pruitt and Bill Pruitt and three sisters, Ruby Pounders, Nellie Hargett and Kathy Ann Pruitt.

Pallbearers will be Terry Pruitt, Randy Melson, Cory Pruitt, Andrew Melson, Preston Ritch and T.J. Allison. Honorary pallbearers include Frankie Smith, Junior Smith and Billy Ray Pounders.

Visitation will be Tuesday, July 2, 12 – 2 p.m. at Calvary Family Worship Center, Golden, MS.

PAM BRAZIL

DENNIS, MS – Pamela Ann “Pam” Brazil, 60, died Wednesday, June 26, 2019 at her residence. She was born in Itawamba County, MS and was a factory worker in garment manufacturing. She attended First Baptist Church, Dennis, MS.

Memorial services will be Friday, June 28, 5 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Dennis, MS with Bro. Jerry George officiating. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are her husband of forty-five years – Stevie Brazil, Dennis, MS; two daughters – Brandy Hodgin (Todd) and Angie Sparks (Jeff); seven grandchildren – Bruce, Chanse, Gaige, Kyle, Aaden, Garron and Ava and one sister – Janice Clark.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Odell and Olene Sides Waddle, a brother, Jerry Waddle and her father and mother-in-law, Harlon and Ruth Brazil.

Visitation will be Friday, June 28, 4-5 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Dennis, MS.

SANDY BARRON MCGOUGH

DENNIS, MS - Sandy Barron McGough, 53, died Tuesday, June 25, 2019 at her residence. She was born in Booneville, MS and had worked at Ole Country Store in Belmont for four years. She was a member of Antioch Baptist Church.

Services will be Thursday, June 27, 5 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Donnie Wooten and Bro. David Holcomb officiating. Burial will be in East Prentiss Cemetery, New Site, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband of twenty-nine and one-half years – Jimmy McGough, Dennis, MS; two sons – Cass McGough and fiancé, Paige Raper and Colby McGough and fiancé, Sandra Ogge; her father – Joe Barron; one sister – Cindy Hood (David); sister-in-law – Darlene Barron; one niece; two nephews; special pet – Queen; four sisters-in-law and special friend – Regina Pardue.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Frances Milstead Barron, a brother, Danny Joe Barron, father-in-law, R.L. McGough, mother-in-law, Ruth McGough and brother-in-law, David McGough.

Pallbearers will be Joey Hood, Jonathan Hood, Dale Gravitt, Johnny Smith, Jeremy Clark and Jay Solomon. Honorary pallbearers will be Donald Reno, John Daughtery, Jeff Sparks and Shearl Pardue.

Visitation will be Wednesday, June 26, 6-9 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

RICKY LETSON

GOLDEN, MS – Ricky Lee Letson, 59, died Friday, June 21, 2019 at Rest Haven Nursing Home in Ripley, MS. He was born in Red Bay, Al and was a factory worker. He was a Baptist.

Services will be Sunday, June 23, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. John Griffus officiating. Burial will be in Walker Baptist Church Cemetery, Golden, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are his daughter- Katrina Lewis (Brandon) of Belmont, MS; five grandchildren-Trenton and Taylor Funderburk, Christian, Korbin and Benjamin Lewis; one great- grandson- Charlie Key; three sisters- Brenda Sides, Nancy Panter and Patsy Hammock; four brothers- David Letson, Randy Letson, Michael Letson (Patsy) and Keith Letson (Candace).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earnest and Irene Orrick Letson and two brothers- Jimmy and Stevie Letson.

Pallbearers will be Brandon Lewis, Johnny Bridges, Brad Parrish, Austin Sides, Keith Letson, Brian Sides.

Visitation will be Sunday, June 23, 10 a.m.  -2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

ROBERT L. CRANE

TISHOMINGO, MS – Robert L. Crane, 64, died Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at his residence. He was born in Booneville, MS and was a maintenance worker. He was a member of Tishomingo Baptist Church. He loved to ride motorcycles and spend time with his grandchildren.

Services will be Thursday, June 20, 4 p.m. at Tishomingo Baptist Church, Tishomingo, MS with Bro. Robbie Crane and Bro. Rusty Fair officiating. Burial will be in Jackson Camp Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are his wife of forty-six years – Brenda Crane, Tishomingo, MS; one son – Robbie Crane (Kim) and two grandchildren – Jordan and Kalynn Crane.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Radfred and Mary Catherine Crane.

Pallbearers will be Jordan Crane, Frankie Howie, Royce Howie, Tim Ryan, Mike Pruitt and Tim Hill. Honorary pallbearers will be Troy Dean, Don Hall and Brian Turner.

Visitation will be Thursday, June 20, 2-4 p.m. at Tishomingo Baptist Church, Tishomingo, MS.

JOHN E. LEE

NEW SITE, MS – John E. Lee, 74, died Friday, June 14, 2019 at his residence. He was born in Pekin, IL and was retired from the U.S. Army as a Motor Pool First Sargeant.

Services will be Sunday, June 16, 3 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Kevin Williams and John Williams officiating. Graveside service with full military honors will be in Dennis Memory Gardens, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are his wife of forty-seven years – Sarah Lee, New Site, MS; four children – Lori Ann Lee, Gatlinburg, TN, Tony Laird of Pennsylvania; Dianne Schmoyer (Dave) East Greenville, PA and Kay Zwan (Eddie) Nashville, Tn; seven grandchildren – Keith Laird, Melissa Laird, Sarah Wheeler, Eric Schmoyer, Joey Zwan, Adam Zwan and Jenna Zwan; three great-grandchildren – Glenn Laird, Kaitlin Owens and Connor Wheeler; one brother – Jimmy Lee and three sisters – Claire Mibbs (Marvin), Mary Katherine Simpson (Nathan) and Phyllis Wright.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer Bud and Edna Irene Switzer Lee, two grandsons, Joseph Laird and Travis John Schmoyer and a brother, Dick Pickner.

Pallbearers will be Ben Bennett, Jeremy Harris, Jeramie Roach, Adam Zwan, Eric Schmoyer and Glenn Laird.

Visitation will be Saturday, June 15, 6-9 p.m. and Sunday, June 16, 1-3 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

JIMMY DALE DEATON

GOLDEN, MS – Jimmy Dale Deaton, 76, died Wednesday, June 12, 2019 at his residence. He was born in Mississippi and was an auto body mechanic for more than fifty years. He was a member of Rock Creek Hunting Club and was active in raising funds for St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital through his horse riding club. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and loved spending time with his grandson.

Services will be Saturday, June 15, 1 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Ron Deaton officiating. Burial will be in Belmont City Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by three children – Regina Russell, Tupelo, MS and Tony Deaton and Bruce Deaton (Melody) all of Golden, MS; six grandchildren – Austin Deaton (Heather), Carley Nunley (Jonathan), Lacy Russell, Sam Russell, Tona Lee Smith (Case) and Taylor Deaton; four great-grandchildren – Cutter Deaton, Knox Deaton, Dyer Nunley and Logann Lee Smith; one brother – Jack Deaton and two sisters – Beverly Shannon (Ralph) and Vickie Hughes.

Pallbearers will be Charlie Barber, Larry Witt, Jeff Martin, Tim Smith, Scott Caldwell and Jessie Shotts. Honorary pallbearers will be members of Rock Creek Hunting Club.

Visitation will be Saturday, June 15, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

JOHN WALSTED

DENNIS, MS – John Martin Walsted, 65, died Saturday, June 8, 2019 at his residence. He was born in Chicago, IL and was a truck driver for forty years.  He was a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church and NRA.

Services will be Tuesday, June 11, 1 p.m. at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Dennis, MS with Bro. David Gould officiating. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are his wife – Michelle Walsted, Dennis, MS; two daughters – Bonnie Walsted of Wisconsin and Heather Massaro of Michigan; adopted children – Ana and Brian Williams; three step-children – Ben Crum (Alayna), Stacey Sweeney (Bernie) and Ashley Ledkins (Michael); thirteen grandchildren; one sister – Kris Walsted, Elgin, IL and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a son, Bryan Massaro, his parents, Herman and Mary Gilroy Walsted, a brother, Tom Walsted and two sisters, Mary Pfortmiller and Karen Walsted.

Visitation will be Tuesday, June 11, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Dennis, MS.

AUSTIN SKYLAR LUMPKINS

WEST MEMPHIS, AR – Austin Skylar Lumpkins, 25, died Tuesday, June 4, 2019 in Mississippi County, AR lending a helping hand to someone in need. Born in Hattiesburg, MS, he was a barge loading truck operator and was passionate about becoming a pilot. He had a big heart and loved to make people laugh. He was a very hard worker and loved spending time working on cars with his Papaw. He loved his family, family meals and family gatherings.

Services will be Saturday, June 8, 12 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Gary Gleason, Sr. officiating. Burial will be in Tishomingo City Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are his mother – Amanda Reno Wells (Kenny) Crawfordsville, AR and formerly of Tishomingo, MS; father – Edward Lumpkins (Jennifer) Fortson, GA; two sisters - Breanna Lumpkins and Faith Lumpkins; grandparents – William and Becky Reno and Danny and Linda Patterson and his fiance` - Sarah Johnson, West Memphis, AR.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Hugh and Carol Lumpkins.

Pallbearers will be Michael Gleason, Jamey Lyon, Johnathon Tway, Joseph Wigginton, Scott Duncan, Justin Haverwaus and Spencer House.

Visitation will be Friday, June 7, 6-9 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

WALTER BUFORD

BELMONT, MS – Walter Erbie “Junior” Buford, 67, died Saturday, June 1, 2019 at his residence. He was born in Mississippi and was a member of Calvary Baptist Church, Belmont, MS.

Services will be Thursday, June 6, 1 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Barry Holcomb officiating. Burial will be in Dennis Memory Gardens, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are two sisters – Betty Coleman (Jimmy) Belmont, MS and Elizabeth Woodard (Dean) Carrollton, MS; one niece – Amanda Harrell (Trent); two nephews – James Coleman and Lee Woodard (Josie) and one great-niece – Daisy Elizabeth Harrell.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Erbie Walter and Mattie Lou Bowers Buford, one brother, William Buford and his grandparents, Johnny and Nezzie Bowers.

Pallbearers will be Greg Pharr, Chris Higginbottom, Woody Watson, Trent Harrell, Lee Woodard and Dean Woodard.

Visitation will be Thursday, June 6, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

LOUISE HILL WINCHESTER

AMORY, MS – Louise N. Hill Winchester, 77, died Thursday, May 30, 2019, at River Place Nursing Center in Amory, MS.  She was born in Philadelphia, PA to Horace Wilbur and Louise Becker Hill.  She attended Word of Life Church at Columbus Air Force Base.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, June 5, 3 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Pastor Martin Gardener officiating.  Burial will be in Old Union Cemetery.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by two children-Louise Besimi (James Hall) of Aberdeen and Todd Winchester of Columbus; twelve grandchildren-Krystopher, Teneshia, Arlisha, Jessica, Gregory, Logan, Jeremiah, Jerry, Jaime-Lynne, Luke, Cody and Kayla and thirteen great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband-Raven Shannon Winchester; her parents; son-Allan Jackson; grandson-Justin Besimi and a great-granddaughter-Adriannah Rose Carbone.

Pallbearers will be James Hall, Jeremiah Besimi, Denny Carbone and Todd Winchester.

Visitation will be Wednesday, June 5, 1-3 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

ROSIE ANN LAWHORN

TISHOMINGO, MS – Rosie Ann Lawhorn, 66, passed away Friday, May 24, 2019, at Magnolia Regional Health Center in Corinth, MS. She was born in Alabama to James and Rosie Boyd Alexander.  She was a member of Provision Ministry in Iuka, MS.

Services will be Saturday, June 1, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Sister Wanda Keele and Justin Alexander officiating. Burial will be in Carters Branch Cemetery, Tishomingo, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by five daughters-Amanda Darlene Patterson (Anthony), Amorita Dawn Lawhorn, Lee Ann Lawhorn, Erica Nicole Lawhorn Nelson (Anthony) and Brittany Desiree Lawhorn King; eight grandchildren-Tonishia Roseanna Nicollette Oliver (Dallon William Oliver), Antonio Devante Gleendale Lee Patterson, Anthony Destin Cameron Patterson, Aliza Rose Lawhorn, Devon Lee Nelson, Gabriel Christian-Edward King, Nevaeh April-Rose King and Abby Toni-Sueanne Michelle King; three great-grandchildren-Sydney Rose Oliver, Kolton William Oliver and Kaiden Lee Oliver; four sisters-Velma Alexander, Johnnie Luster (Michael), Annie Cook (Michael) and Cassandra Blackmore (Jeffrey) and three brothers-Larry Alexander, Jessie Alexander and Willie Alexander (Mary Catherine).

She was preceded in death by her husband-Jimmy Lee Lawhorn; her parents and two sisters-Teresa Alexander Miller and Bernell Alexander.

Pallbearers will be Phillip Allen, R.J. Woodruff, Cameron Patterson, Devante Patterson, Dallon Oliver, Malik Alexander, Keith Alexander, Anthony Patterson and Anthony Nelson.

Visitation will be Friday, May 31, 6-9 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

MILTON W. PRIEN, JR.

GOLDEN, MS – Milton W. Prien, Jr., 88, died Tuesday, May 21, 2019 at The Meadows, Fulton, MS. He was born in Colby, WI and was retired from the U.S. Air Force after twenty-six years, serving in the Korean War and three tours in Vietnam. He was a member of Antioch Baptist Church, Golden, MS.

Services will be Friday, May 24, 11 a.m. at Antioch Baptist Church, Golden, MS with Bro. Dean Warren officiating. Burial will be in Hodge Cemetery, Golden, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by four children – Linda Maxwell (Ronny) Dennis, MS, Larry Prien (Donna) and Leonard Prien (Liz) all of Golden, MS and Valerie Redmon (Mark) Edmond, OK; five grandchildren – Timothy Prien, Patrick Prien, Stephanie Eades, Michael Redmon and Kayla Blackshere (Kyle) and three great-grandchildren – Dustin Eades, Aaron Lee Prien and Kaydyn Buckley.

Visitation will be Thursday, May 23, 6-9 p.m. at Antioch Baptist Church, Golden, MS.

MICHAEL YARBROUGH

HOUSTON, TX – Michael “Mike” Allan Yarbrough, age 61, died March 5, 2019.

Memorial services will be Sunday, May 26, 3 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Dwight South officiating. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by two daughters – Courtney Yarbrough and Lindsey Yarbrough; four grandchildren – Morgan McMinn, Sydney Bowles, Reese Vowels and Jace Barnes; mother of his children – Angie Hodge; his mother – Minnie Yarbrough; one brother – Terry Yarbrough (Shelia) and one sister – Janet Nunley.

He was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Yarbrough.

Visitation will be Sunday, May 26, 1-3 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

RAVENE PARDUE

GOLDEN, MS – Vernedia Ravene Pardue, 89, died Saturday, May 11, 2019, at Tishomingo Manor in Iuka, MS.  She was born in Mississippi to Felix and Ophelia Hill Pardue.  She was a homemaker and member of Liberty Church of Christ.

Funeral services will be Monday, May 13, 4 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with David Conley and Bro. Roger Wood officiating.  Burial will be in Lindsey Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by a host of cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister-Quay Pardue.

Pallbearers will be Alex Martin, Myrl Williams, Ron Parker, Shearl Pardue, Roger Wood and Lance Pardue.

Visitation will be Monday, May 13, 2-4 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

NELLIE POOLE

DENNIS, MS – Nellie Jean Poole, 68, died Sunday, May 5, 2019, at Sunset Manor Nursing Home in Guin, AL.  She was born in Green County, PA to Howard Franklin and Anna Bell Reed Ashbrook.  She had worked as a bookkeeper and was a veteran of the US Army.  She was a member of Landmark Baptist Church.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, May 7, 5:30 p.m. at Landmark Baptist Church, Dennis, MS with Bro. Hal Holt, Bro. Robert Wood and Haskell Sparks officiating.  Burial will be in Landmark Cemetery.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by three children-Michelle McKinnon (Jeff) of Iuka, Chris Hearn and Brian Speers (Chelsey) all of Belmont; two grandchildren-Dalton and Noah; two sisters-Betty Foster and Marlene Maney (Mike) both of Hindsville, GA; one nephew-Mikie Maney and two nieces-Claudia Foster and Betty Jo Foster.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband-Kenneth Speers and a granddaughter-Virginia Pennington.

Pallbearers will be Kenny Poole, Phillip Slayton, Donnie Barnett, Mikie Maney, Dustin Harris and Jason Slayton.  Honorary pallbearers will be Rickey Carter, Johnny Poole and Mike Maney.

Visitation will be Tuesday, May 7, 3-5:30 p.m. at Landmark Baptist Church.

The family wishes to thank the loving staff of Sunset Manor and Hospice of Northwest AL for the care she received.

MINNIE HOLT

BELMONT, MS – Minnie Spencer Holt, 57, died Friday, May 3, 2019, at the Red Bay Hospital.  She was born in Theo, MS to Leo “Red” and Allie Sue Franks Spencer.  She was employed at Golden Manufacturing for 22 years.

Memorial services will be Monday, May 6, 6 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Ellis Stacy officiating.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by two children-Kenny Steen (Angel) of Tupelo, MS and Karen Stacy (Derek) of Golden, MS; nine grandchildren-Tyler Steen, Sara Beth Steen, Hunter Steen, Taylor Putt, Karci Watson, Cameron Thomas, Caleb Stacy, Calleigh Stacy and Elijah Stacy; two great-grandchildren-Kadynce Mhyre and Hudson Putt and two brothers-Jerry Spencer (Carol) and Billy Spencer all of Corinth, MS.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers-Terry Spencer and Doug Spencer and one sister-Wanda Settlemires.

Visitation will be Monday, May 6, 5-6 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

ROMAN JEFFERY ROBERTS

GOLDEN, MS – Roman Jeffery Roberts, 32, died Monday, April 29, 2019 at North Ms. Medical Center, Tupelo, MS. He was born in Tupelo, MS, worked at Tiffin Motor Homes and was a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church.

Services will be Thursday, May 2, 3:30 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. David Gould officiating. Burial will be in Belmont City Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are his mother – Paula Crowe (Jerry Crowe); his father – Jeff Roberts (Liz Roberts); one brother – Jordan Roberts; two sisters – Kayleigh Thomas and Allyssa Thomas; one step-brother – Dalton Ables; grandmother – Martha Roberts and grandfather – Paul Sparks.

He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Cathy Sparks; his grandfather, Caldwell Roberts and an uncle and aunt, Timothy and Wendy Sparks.

Pallbearers will be Dexter Evetts, Blake Taylor, Dillion Oswalt, Chris Southward, Luke Pounds, Brad Hester and Beau Kennedy.

Visitation will be Wednesday, May 1, 6-9 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

GLORIA ANN BATES

NETTLETON, MS - Gloria Ann Bates, 72, died Thursday, April 18, 2019 at Sanctuary Hospice, Tupelo, MS. She was born in Belmont, MS and was a homemaker.  She attended The Church in Union Community.

Services will be Saturday, April 20, 3 p.m. at Fairview Holy Church of Christ, Belmont, MS with Mike Deaton officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Holy Church of Christ Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are one daughter – Janet Higgins, Tupelo, MS; two grandchildren – Corey Ball, Tupelo, MS and Jessica Poores, Pontotoc, MS; four great-grandchildren – Harleigh, Makayla, Kolby and Audrey; three brothers – Joe Bates (Tula), Marty Bates (Chris) and Rodney Bates (Mingshu); one sister – Sue Goodin and sister-in-law – Judy Temple (Merle).

She was preceded in death by her parents, Archie and Katherine Credille Bates, a brother, Jerry Bates and a granddaughter, Shelly Swindle.

Pallbearers will be her grandson and nephews.

Visitation will be Saturday, April 20, 1-3 p.m. at Fairview Holy Church of Christ.

HELEN RUTH PRUITT

RED BAY, AL - Helen Ruth Pruitt, 81, died Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at Generations of Red Bay. She was born in Prentiss County, MS, was a factory worker for thirty years and a Baptist.

Services will be Saturday, April 20, 1 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Mike Deaton officiating.  Burial will be in Allen Line Cemetery, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are two sisters – Dorothy Wells (Nolan) Golden, MS and Yvonne Woodruff, Belmont, MS;  a son – Ronnie Pruitt, Belmont, MS and a host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Selmon and Sarah Allen Gann and two brothers, Travis and Ellis Gann.

Pallbearers will be Roy Bates, Steve Bates, Foy Bates, Jerry Gann, Ethan Kellum and Nolan Wells.

Visitation will be Saturday, April 20, 12-1 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

NANCY PHYLLIS WILTSHIRE STRICKLAND

FULTON, MS – Nancy Phyllis Wiltshire Strickland, 65, died Tuesday, April 16, 2019 at Sanctuary Hospice, Tupelo, MS. She was born in Attala County, MS and worked at the Itawamba County School District for thirty-two years. She was a member of Fulton United Methodist Church where she was organist for twelve years.

Services will be Friday, April 19, 11 a.m. at Fulton United Methodist Church, Fulton, MS with Rev. Phillip Box and Rev. John Foster officiating. Burial will be in Old Bethel Cemetery, Golden, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband of forty-five years – Jerry Strickland, Fulton, MS; two daughters– Jennifer Jenkins (Doug) and Rebekah Carsten (Beau) all of Fulton, MS; one granddaughter – Emma Jayne Carsten; her mother – Nancy Wiltshire, Belmont, MS; three sisters – Sylvia Chamblee (Robert) Fulton, MS, Dixie Griffin (Tim) Iuka, MS and Donna McAnally (Mark) Oxford, MS; one brother – Buddy Wiltshire (Peggy) Belmont, MS and eleven nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, George Wiltshire and her mother-in-law, Laverne Strickland.

Her nephews will serve as pallbearers – Robby Chamblee, Lee Griffin, Jake McAnally, Wesley Wiltshire, Travis Neal, Marcus Schallock and Harrison Moore. Honorary pallbearers will be Jeff Dew, Herbert Dew and Benton Nail.

Visitation will be Friday, April 19, 9 -11 a.m. at Fulton United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to be made to Sanctuary Hospice, 5159 W. Main Street, Tupelo, MS 38801.

LUCILLE HOWELL

GOLDEN, MS – Lucille Howell, 90, died Monday, April 8, 2019 at The Meadows, Fulton, MS. She was born June 18, 1928 in Texas and was a homemaker. She co-founded Rhema Christian Center in California and was a riveter for the U.S. Army.

Services will be Saturday, April 13, 11 a.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Ed Garcia officiating. Burial will be in Belmont Memory Gardens, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by three children – Sharon Brooks (Bill) of California, Susan Garcia (Edward) Golden, MS and Michael Howell, Birmingham, AL; daughter-in-law - Toni Howell; eight grandchildren – Bryan Brooks (Jamie), Brendan Brooks (Anna), Taryn Hopper (Lawson), Brett Brooks, Damaris Hamilton (Ryan), Seth Howell (Sarah), Jedediah Howell (Erica) and Luke Howell; twelve great-grandchildren – Sophia, Piper, Lawson, Judah, Finn, Ethan, Eliana, Avielle, Adelyn Rose, Jase, Navy and Hollister.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Virgle Howell and seven brothers and sisters.

Pallbearers will be Lawson Hopper, Ryan Hamilton, Luke Howell, Seth Howell, Jedediah Howell, Brendan Brooks and Bryan Brooks.

Visitation will be Friday, April 12, 6-9 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

RALPH EDWIN SPARKS

GOLDEN, MS – Ralph Edwin Sparks, 62, died Thursday, April 4, 2019 at North Ms. Medical Center, Tupelo, MS. He was born January 12, 1957 in Red Bay, AL and was self-employed as a carpenter. He was a member of New Bethel Baptist Church and Belmont Masonic Lodge.

Services will be Sunday, April 7, 3 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Glenn Bridgmon and Bro. Mark Howard officiating. Burial will be in Belmont City Cemetery, Belmont, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his brothers and sisters – Clyne Sparks, Memphis, TN, Syble Clayton, Phillip Sparks (Bonnie), Wanda Winstead, W.C. Sparks (Theresa) and Ann Elrod, all of Belmont, MS and Rick Sparks (Diane) Iuka, MS; a son – Ross E. Sparks, Fulton, MS; a sister-in-law-Julia Sparks of Belmont, MS and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ross and Berniece Sparks and a brother, Harold C. Sparks.

Pallbearers will be Jeff Sparks, Jamie Sparks, Ted Sparks, Jake Elrod and Josh Elrod.

Visitation will be Sunday, April 7, 1:30 – 3 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

SARAH FAYE HAMMETT

BELMONT, MS – Sarah Faye Hammett, 82, passed away Saturday, March 30, 2019 at NMMC in Tupelo, MS.  She was born in Tishomingo County, MS to Clonel L. and Bessie Pitts McRae.  She worked as a seamstress for many years.  She was a member of Old Bethel Methodist Church and wrote the Red Bud News article for the Belmont Journal for 25 years.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, April 2, 1 p.m. at Old Bethel Methodist Church with Bro. Donnie Riley and Bro. Steve Kennedy officiating.  Burial will be in Old Bethel Cemetery.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by four daughters-Ann Clingan (Kenneth) of Dennis, Susie Roberson (Donald Ray Thomas) of Belmont, Lynn Gattis (Rick) of Dennis and Denise Harden (Terry) of Red Bay; five grandchildren-Shannon Roberson (Bridgett), Corey Roberson (Megan), Jack Gattis (Dawn), Shiann Wooten and Dakota Wooten and five great-grandchildren-Bryson, Anslie, Talynn, Naomi and Nathan.

She was preceded in death by her husband-A.C. Hammett; her parents, four brothers-Millard, Leland, Johnny and C.L. and one sister-Linda.

Pallbearers will be Shannon Roberson, Corey Roberson, Jack Gattis, Donald Ray Thomas, Jack Ivy and Terry Stanley.

Visitation will be Monday, April 1, 6-9 p.m. at Old Bethel Methodist Church.

KENT QUILLEN

DENNIS, MS – Harold Kent Quillen, 61, died Tuesday, March 26, 2019 at his residence.  He was born in Natchez, MS.  He was a member of First Baptist Church in Dennis, MS and was a car detailer.

Funeral services will be Monday, April 1, 1 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Mike Deaton officiating.  Burial will be in Joel Cemetery, Dennis, MS.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by two sisters-Linda Norris (Lynn) of Tupelo and Cindy Quillen of OR; three nephews-Chris Long (Andrea), Derek Long (Christy) and Trevor Bailey; one niece-Nikki Sanders; five great nephews and two great nieces.

He was preceded in death by his father-Harold Quillen; his mother-Margaret Quillen Smith; his grandparents-Ernest and Mae Quillen and Fred and Christine Meyer and a brother-Johnny Quillen.

Pallbearers will be Chris Long, Derek Long, Lynn Norris, Ron Eaton, Ronnie Eaton, Jr. and Poochum Parrish.

Visitation will be Monday, April 1, 12-1 at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

LEALON O’REAR

NEW SITE, MS – Lealon O’Rear, 82, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 24, 2019 at Sanctuary Hospice, Tupelo, MS. He was born May 11, 1936 in Itawamba County, MS to Novis O’Rear and Nona Adams O’Rear. He worked at Johns Manville for forty-two years and was a member of The Church of God of Prophecy in Red Bay. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army.

Services will be Wednesday, March 27, 11 a.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Mark Barnett and Bro. Josh Westmoreland officiating. Burial will be in East Prentiss Cemetery, New Site, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are his wife – Margie Gentry O’Rear; two sons – Jack O’Rear and Todd O’Rear (Alicia); four grandchildren – Dallas, Justin, Jeb and Kaylee O’Rear; five great-grandchildren -  Nicholas, Justin, Morgan, Maeloni and Jase; two brothers – Addis and Joan O’Rear, Winthrop Harbor, IL and Dexter and Jana O’Rear, Fulton, MS; two sisters – Glenda and Nelson Elrod and Linda Blanton, Red Bay, AL; sisters-in-law – Holley and Betty Tennison, Brandon, MS, Billy and Mittie Sartain, Belmont, MS and James and Dorothy Bailey, New Site, MS and a large host of nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Jack O’Rear, Todd O’Rear, Dallas O’Rear and Jeff O’Rear.

Visitation will be Wednesday, March 27, 10-11 a.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

MARIE WITHERS

GOLDEN, MS – Marie A. Withers, 82, died Sunday, March 10, 2019 at the Iuka Hospital.  She was born in Dennis, MS to Charlie Henry and Hautie McRae Ivey.  She was retired from Uniroyal Tire Company.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, March 13, 1 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Donnie Wooten officiating.  Burial will be in Dennis Memory Gardens.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by one daughter-Debra Slayton (Joe) of Golden; her sister-Nadine Mann (Flurry) of Dennis; her brother-Milford Ivey of Belmont; one granddaughter-Kimberly Allen of Vina and four great-grandchildren-Cody Martin, Josie King, Maddox Hoffman and Jace Phifer.

She was preceded in death by her husband-Edward Allen; her parents; two sons-Thomas Allen and Rickey Allen; two grandsons-Brandon and Jacob King and one granddaughter-Michelle Borden.

Pallbearers will be Ronnie Roberson, Ronnie Roberson, Jr., Daniel Roberson, Gavin Cromeans, Jared Rich, Rocky Bishop and Cole Bishop.

Visitation will be Wednesday, March 13, 11-1 at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

BOBBY CASTLEBERRY

BELMONT, MS – Bobby Wade Castleberry, 82, died Wednesday, February 27, 2019 at his residence. He was born June 9, 1936 in Tishomingo County, MS to Thomas Void Castleberry and Maggie Wigginton Castleberry. He was a business owner and attended Chapel Hill Church of God of Prophecy, Golden, MS.

Services will be Thursday, February 28, 3:30 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Clifford Kelton officiating. Burial will be in Old Bethel Cemetery, Golden, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by one niece – Janie Dees (Jerry) and one nephew – Stevie Harris (Sherry) all of Belmont, MS.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Christine Castleberry, his parents, a nephew, Charles Harris and a sister, Evelyn Harris.

Visitation will be Thursday, February 28, 2-3:30 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

SHEFFIELD, AL – Brent Franklin Black, Sr., 77, died Sunday, February 17, 2019, at his home in Sheffield.  He was born in Colbert County, AL to John Luther and Gladys Kimbrough Black.  He had worked as a hot mill operator for Reynolds.

Graveside services will be Sunday, February 24, at 2 p.m. at Belmont City Cemetery.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by five children-Jewel Burnham (Tony), Brent F. Black, Jr., (Trish), Barbara Ann Howard, Teresa Tucker and Holly Vance; six grandchildren-Eric Burnham, Krystal Moore, Thomas Cane Tucker, Ashleigh Klutts, Brent Franklin Black, III and Jay Street; five great-grandchildren-Cassidy Tucker, Brent Franklin Black IV, Lillian Black, Major Forrest Street and Aron Klutts; two sisters-Annie Jewel Stonecipher and Marlene Black; one brother-John Luther Black, Jr. and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law-Ned and Lesley Cox.

He was preceded in death by his wife-Marilyn Cox Black, his parents and five siblings.

HERMON LONG

IUKA, MS – Hermon Dayton Long, 76, died Thursday, February 14, 2019 at his residence. He was born September 4, 1942 in Mississippi and was a factory worker for forty years. He served in the National Guard.

Services will be Saturday, February 16, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Mike Deaton and Brent Colley officiating. Burial will be in Rutledge-Salem Cemetery, Iuka, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

Survivors are two daughters – Heather Kamarainen (Brandon) Iuka, MS and Eugenia Pearson (Richard) Golden, MS; one granddaughter – Ella Nunley; one step-son – Kevin; one step-daughter – Lisa; several step-grandchildren; one sister – Frances Credille, Iuka, MS and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Oniece Credille, wives, Evelyn Long and Betty Long, his twin brother, Shermon Long and two sisters, Gail Berry and Shery Wilson.

Pallbearers will be Jeff Long, Brent Colley, Eddie Moore, Alton Roberts, Danny Dennington and Thomas Parrish. Honorary pallbearers will be Brandon Kamarainen, Richard Pearson, Jason Long, David Credille, Jimmy Aldridge, Pat Aldridge, Harold Aldridge, Bob Robertson, Ralph Sexton and Mark Greenwood.

Visitation will be Friday, February 15, 5-8 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

MILDRED GASAWAY RAMEY

GOLDEN, MS – Mildred Gattis Gasaway Ramey, 89, died Sunday, February 10, 2019 at her residence. She was born December 19, 1929 in Tishomingo County, MS to George Washington Gattis and Maudie Mae Johnson Gattis. She was a homemaker and a member of Poplar Springs Baptist Church.

Services will be Wednesday, February 13, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Roger Johnson and Greg McCollum officiating. Burial will be in Joel Cemetery, Dennis, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by four children – Holly McCollum (Geary) and Eloise Hall, all of Red Bay, AL and Nancy Orrick and Regina Irby (Bobby) all of Fairview, MS; thirteen grandchildren – Greg McCollum, Stacy Johnson, Patrick McCollum, Rebecca Mayhall, Lisa Childers, Clint Irby, Wade Irby, Randy Gassaway, Jason Gassaway, Teresa White, Chuck Hall, Angela Orrick and Beverly Harless; twenty-four great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; one sister – Edna Ruth Hamby; one brother – Raymond Gattis and one daughter-in-law - Brenda Gassaway Knight.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Cayce Gasaway and Wayne Ramey, her parents, a son, Jerry Gassaway, a granddaughter , Vicki Rogers, sons-in-law – Charles Hall and Richard Orrick; six sisters, Lottie Bell Lambert, Evelyn Poole, Christine Dempsey, Geraldine Bostick, Irene Neal and Hazel McAlister and five brothers, Howard Gattis, Wilmer Gattis, Ben Gattis, Woodrow Gattis and Thomas Gattis.

Pallbearers will be Randy Gassaway, Jason Gassaway, Wade Irby, Clint Irby, Chuck Hall, Gavin Johnson and Patrick McCollum.

Visitation will be Wednesday, February 13, 12-2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.

OPAL MELVIN

BELMONT, MS - Opal Boutwell Melvin, 78, passed away February 7, 2019 at North Mississippi Medical Center.  She was born on February 20, 1940 to Bruce and Anna Boutwell of Crystal Springs, MS. She was a member of the Liberty Church of Christ in Dennis, MS. She was a retired educator and taught for 28 years, most recently at Northeast Mississippi Community College. She enjoyed shopping, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends.  She was very active in her church and a past President of Retired Education Personnel of Mississippi.

A celebration of life service will be Saturday, February 9, 11 a.m. at Liberty Church of Christ in Dennis, MS with Haskell Sparks and David Conley officiating. Burial will be in Booneville Cemetery, Booneville, MS. Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

She is survived by her husband, Richard Hinkle, one sister, Peggy Trull; her children, Penny Melvin Bullard, Christi Melvin Swinford (Michael), James Patrick Melvin, Shelley Fister (Bill), Stephanie Hinkle; eleven grandchildren including Channing Green, Lakyn and Riley Embrey, Amberly Bullard, and Bailey and Marissa Melvin; and three great grandchildren, Payten, CarterLynn, and Myron Green.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, James Melvin in 2004, her parents and a sister, Nannie Lee Duncan.

Pallbearers will be Jody McClung, Shannon Edmondson, Keith Middleton, Brad Howie, Kevin Keith and Ricky Timbes.

Visitation will be Friday, February 8, 5-8 p.m. at Liberty Church of Christ in Dennis, MS.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to be made to the Charles E. Johnson Memorial Scholarship fund, https://repm.us/index.php/foundation-scholarship.

BILL GOFF

DENNIS, MS – Bill Goff, 82, died Friday, January 25, 2019 in Belmont, MS.  He was born October 14, 1936 in Hollywood, AL to Abe and Effie Goff.  He worked as a civil engineer for GE and was a member of the United Church of God for 50 years.  He loved working with horses and other animals.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, January 29, 2 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home Chapel, Belmont, MS with Bro. Terry Beam officiating.  Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by one daughter-Jeannie Carol Kelley (Richard) of Moss Point, MS; four grandsons-Brenton Davis (Lesha), Otha Harbin, William Harbin (Ashley) and Joshua Harbin (Mary); ten great-grandchildren and one sister-Joanna Rhudy (Clifford) of Cleveland, TN.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son-William Goff and four brothers.

Visitation will be Monday, January 28, 6-9 p.m. at Deaton Funeral Home, Belmont, MS.