Mr. William "Bill" Dwight Smallwood, a resident of Pansey
William (Bill) Dwight Smallwood, a resident of Pansey passed away early Tuesday morning, September 7, 2004 at his home. He was 67. Funeral services will be held Thursday, September 9, 2004 at 2 pm at Liberty Baptist Church, Pansey, AL, with Rev. Coley M. Holloway and Rev. James Miller officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with full military honors and Southern Heritage directing. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to Liberty Baptist Church c/o the Building Fund, 477 Liberty Road, Pansey, AL 36370. Mr. Smallwood retired from the US Air Force after 24 ½ years service as a Master Sergeant. He later retired from Georgia Pacific with 17 years of service as an Electrical Foreman. Mr. Smallwood will be remembered for his faithfulness to his church and the way he embraced life and lived each day to the fullest. His parents, Allen D. and Mollie Mae Collier Smallwood; two sisters, Ruth Smallwood and Dorothy Lakes and a brother, AJ Smallwood, precede Mr. Smallwood in death. He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Nyoka Smallwood; two daughters, Daphne Simpson, Memphis, TN, Melinda and Greg Chaney, Dothan; a step-son, Woody and Cindy Herring, Jasper, AL; six grandchildren, Chystopher, Chase and Isabelle Simpson, Memphis, TN, Brittany Shaughnessy and Tyler Chaney both of Dothan, Wil and Anna Katherine Herring, Jasper, AL; two sisters, Jane Halbrook and Mollie Ann McAdams; brother, Rev. Carl Smallwood. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Wiregrass Hospice and everyone who called or visited during their time of need.

Mrs. Nellie Myra Patterson Gantt of Dothan
Nellie Myra Patterson Gantt, a resident of Dothan, passed away Wednesday morning, November 24, 2004 at Extendicare Health Center. She was 90 years old. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, November 27, 2004 at Southern Heritage Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Kyle Gatlin and Rev. Danny Arnold officiating. Burial will follow in the Beulah Baptist Church Cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 PM on Friday, November 26. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wiregrass Hospice, P.O. Drawer 2127, Dothan, AL 36302 or Extendicare Health and Rehabilitation Center, 950 S. St. Andrews, Dothan, AL 36301. Mrs. Gantt was born August 3, 1914 in Houston County to the late Mary Ellen Kirkland and George Alpheus Patterson. She worked at Dothan Hosiery Mill for 19 years as a seamstress and was a member of Lafayette Street United Methodist Church She is preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Rush Gantt who passed away February 3, 2002, her parents, daughter Laura Gantt, two sisters and five brothers. Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Mary and Lloyd Hughes, Dothan; one son and daughter-in-law, George (Billy) and Faye Gantt, Sparks, GA; one sister, Rebecca Coffey, Pensacola, FL; six grandchildren, Lloyd Hughes II, Atlanta, GA, Kelli Hughes (Mike) Dye, Mobile, David (Beckie) Gantt, Cape Girardeau, MO, Paula (Johnny M.) Carter, Jennings, FL, Denise (Bill) Fuqua, Lake Park, GA, Rhonda (John) Boatwright, Pinetta, FL; twelve great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Ida May "Marie" McNeil
Ida May (Marie) McNeil passed away at Extendicare Hospice Services Facility early Thursday afternoon, October 14, 2004. She was 79. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. today (Monday), October 18 at the chapel of Southern Heritage Funeral home with Rev. George Thompson officiating. Burial will follow at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery at 3 p.m. (E.S.T) in Seale, Alabama with Southern Heritage directing. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 3–5 p.m. Sunday afternoon, October 17. Flowers are being accepted or memorial contributions may be made to Wiregrass Hospice, P.O. Drawer 2127, Dothan, AL 36302. Mrs. McNeil was born in Wingate, IN on December 22, 1924 to Charles and Elizabeth Fletcher. She moved to Linden, IN at an early age and was raised by Foster parents, Eva and Arthur Vail. She lived there for 30 years. She also resided in Lafayette, IN for 26 years. Mrs. McNeil worked for GTE for 14 years as a service clerk. She moved to Dothan in 1984 and resided for the remainder of her life. She was a member of Union Hill Baptist Church, a former member of the American Legion Auxiliary and along with her husband a member of the Clan MacNeil Association of America. She also enjoyed crafts and sewing. Mrs. McNeil is preceded in death by her parents and foster parents, one sister and three brothers. She was married March 13, 1948 to Boyd O. McNeil, Jr. of New Richmond, IN who survives. Along with her husband she is survived by three children, Boyd III and Rita McNeil, of Royal Center, IN, Mavourneen Gay and Ken Walker of Gulf Breeze, FL and John Lee and Suzie McNeil of Austin, TX. She is also survived by five grandchildren, Matthew Dennis, Carla Mavourneen and Sara May McNeil, Alisha Rothwell and Rodney Walker, Jr. and his wife Emma; and twin great- granddaughters Abigail and Kaitlin Walker. Her brother Earl Fletcher and his wife Miriam of Huntington Beach, CA also survive.

Ms. Margarete E. Bartholomew of Dothan
Ms. Margarete E. Bartholomew, a resident of Dothan, passed away peacefully at her residence on the evening of Wednesday, November 24, 2004. She was 75 years old. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM Monday, November 29, 2004 at Southern Heritage Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Sam Brassell, Jr. officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Southside Baptist Church, 423 E. Cottonwood Road, Dothan, AL 36301. Ms. Bartholomew was born November 28, 1928 in Germany. She lived in Bonifay, FL for many years and came to Dothan in 1990. She was proud to be an American. She formerly worked at Dillards, but at the time of her death she was employed with Casual Corner. She is survived by one daughter, Christa Ann Bartholomew, Leavenworth, KS; two sons, Curtis and Thomas Bartholomew, both of Dothan; five grandchildren; two sisters, Eva and Ilse, both of Germany.

Mrs. JoAnn Rowland of Dothan
Mrs. JoAnn Rowland, a resident of Dothan, and former owner and optician of Eye Glass Fashion on North Foster Street, passed away Saturday afternoon, November 27, 2004 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center. She was 68. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. today, November 30 in the chapel of Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Rev. Don Falgout and Rev. Willie Parker officiating. Burial will follow at Memory Hill cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. Flowers are being accepted or memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation of Alabama, 212 W. Burdeshaw Street, Dothan, AL 36303. Mrs. Rowland was born March 15, 1936 in Houston County and was a lifelong resident Dothan. She served as a member of the ABWA for a number of years and served on the board of the Alabama Opticians for two years. Mrs. Rowland was a member of South Lena Baptist Church where she taught Sunday school and Training Union. She was a graduate of Dothan High School class of 1955. Mrs. Rowland is preceded in death by her husband, Samuel Rowland; three sisters, Doris Smith, Inez Hales, Jennifer Whitaker; one brother, Lowell Hicks. She is survived by one daughter, Carla and Bobby Burkett, Dothan; one son, Bennie McNeal; three grandchildren, Bryan Tate, Justin Tate and Felecia McNeal, all of Dothan; one sister, Betty Jacobson, Seattle, WA; two special friends, Sue Sasser and Carlson McNeal, both of Dothan. Several nieces and nephews also survive. Serving as active pallbearers will be: Jerry Vann, Mack Lewis, Braxton Bell, Kenneth Martin, James McNeal, John Ellison, and Jimmy Reeves as an honorary pallbearer.

Mrs. Billie Margaret Loyless of Avon
Billie Margaret Loyless, a resident of Avon, passed away Tuesday morning, December 7, 2004 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center. She was 70 years old. Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. today, December 10, 2004 at the chapel of Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Rev. Max McKinney officiating. Burial will follow at Crestlawn Cemetery with Southern Heritage directing. Flowers are being accepted. Mrs. Loyless was born June 10, 1934 to J.C. and Gertha Deason in Bibb County where she lived the early years of her life. She later moved to Plant City, Florida where she was a graduate of Plant City High School. Mrs. Loyless moved to Houston County in the late 70’s and lived here the remainder of her life. Mrs. Loyless was a familiar face of Loyless Doughnuts where she was the co-owner with her husband. Mrs. Loyless is survived by her husband of 22 years, Garland Loyless, Avon; one daughter, Peggy Milam, Birmingham, AL; two sons, Samprice Harper, Jr., Clay, AL, Robert Grant Harper, Merritt Island, FL; one step daughter, Regina Norwood, Youngstown, FL, three step sons, Roger Loyless, Brinson, GA, Wyndal Loyless, Panama City, FL, Hilton Loyless, Dothan, AL; five grandchildren, Amanda and Anna Harper, Cody Harper, Anthony Steven Beste, Jr., Andrew Barry Milam; two sisters, Sybil Gordon and Mary Soich both of Zephyrhills, FL; two brothers, Ralph Deason, Grove Hill, AL and Allen Deason, Dogwood Lakes, FL.

Ret. Major Herbert Glass of Dothan
Retired Major Herbert Graceson Glass, “Papa Herb” as he was known to his family, of Dothan and formerly of Waynesboro, VA, died Thursday December 23, 2004 at home following an extended illness. He was 60. Memorial services for Mr. Glass will be held at a later time and will be announced by Southern Heritage Funeral Home & Crematory. The family will be receiving friends and family at their home, 814 Sanitary Dairy Road, Ashford, AL. Memorial contributions may be made to Bethel Baptist Church Building Fund, 3257 E. Cottonwood Road, Dothan, AL, 36301 where he was a member. Major Glass was born April 28, 1944 in Waynesboro, VA the son of the late Harvey and Thelma Glass. He was a native of Waynesboro and has lived in Dothan since 1969. He was in the U. S. Army and served two tours of duty in Korea and was a Vietnam veteran. He was a helicopter pilot in Vietnam and also had his private pilots license. He completed his retirement in the Alabama National Guard. After his retirement he worked in sales in the Dothan area. He loved all of his children and grandchildren with an unconditional love. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially relaxing beside his fishpond with his two cats, but his greatest joy was playing with his grandchildren. His parents preceded him in death. Mr. Glass is survived by his wife of 35 years, Linda Gilmer Glass, Ashford; two sons and daughters in law, Graceson and Robyn Glass, Ashford, Heath and Leslie Glass, Duluth, GA; three grandchildren, Hayden and Hannah Glass, Ashford, Garrett Glass, Duluth, GA; two brothers and sisters in law, Rev. Harvey and Jody Glass, Murphy, N.C., Henry and Debra Glass, Lebanon, VA; one brother in law and his wife, Darrell and Jennie Gilmer, Webb.

Mr. Maurice Charles Ryckeley, a resident of Ozark
Maurice Charles Ryckeley, a resident of Ozark, passed away early Friday morning, November 12, 2004 at Dale Medical Center following a brief illness. He was 45 years old. Arrangements are being handled by Southern Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory.

Mrs. Virginia J. Rhodes of Dothan
Virginia J. Rhodes, a resident of Dothan, passed away Tuesday, January 18, 2005 at Early Memorial Nursing Home following an extended illness. She was 78. Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, January 21, 2005 at Memphis Baptist Church cemetery with Rev. Ernest O’Neal officiating. A viewing will be held from 6-7 p.m. tonight at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Wiregrass Hospice, PO Drawer 2127, Dothan, AL 36302; Memphis Baptist Church Building Fund, 4595 Eddins Road, Dothan, AL 36301; Alzheimer’s Resource Center, 1314 Westgate Parkway, Dothan, AL 36303. Mrs. Rhodes was born September 12, 1926 to Zackery and Ada Johnson. She was a lifelong resident of Houston County and a graduate of Dothan High School and Riley Business College. Mrs. Rhodes worked for many years at Sears as a bookkeeper and later retired from there. She was a member of Memphis Baptist Church and the Joyful Christians. Mrs. Rhodes loved her grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with each of them. Her husband, Jack D. Rhodes and a grandson, Neal John Clark, preceded Mrs. Rhodes in death. She is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Beverly and Tony Clark, Dothan; two sons and daughters-in-law, Jack Lamar and Gwen Rhodes, Denham, LA, Ritchie L. and Bonnie Rhodes, Mims, FL; one sister, Ellon Collins, Dothan; four grandchildren, Ryan Clark, Sarah Clark, Olivia Rhodes and Ritchie Rhodes, Jr.

Corporal Matthew C. Bryant
Corporal Matthew Coy Bryant passed away Sunday, November 14, 2004 in Lawton, OK. He was 26. Graveside funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, November 20 at Memory Hill Cemetery with full military honors. The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Friday, November 19 at Southern Heritage Funeral Home. Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to the U.S. Army Emergency Relief Fund, Building 4700, MOW-WAY Road, Ft. Sill, OK 73503. Mr. Bryant was born October 21, 1978 in Chambers County, Alabama. Matt was a 1997 graduate of Northview High School and was on active duty with the U.S. Army. Matt married Janet Cestaro on June 12, 2004, and they shared a very special life together. During his time of service in the U.S. Army, he was stationed in Germany and served with NATO forces in Kosovo. His decorations included the Army Achievement Medal, NATO Medal and Kosovo Campaign Medal. He had recently been promoted to CPL at his duty station in Ft. Sill, OK. Mr. Bryant is survived by his wife, Janet Bryant, Ft. Sill, OK; father, Coy (Cindy) Bryant, Valley, AL; mother, Delana (Joel) Upchurch, Dothan, AL; mother-in-law & father-in-law, Jane and Mark Evans, Dothan, AL; one brother, Jacob Hudmon; two sisters, Ashley Bryant and Tiffany Osbon; sister and brother in law, Jill (Chad) Johnson; grandparents, JoAnn (Milton) Brookins, Jorene Herrin, Vivian Bryant; and special grandparents, Barbara & Kenneth Johnson. Matt’s loving, kind and gentle spirit will be sincerely missed by his family, friends and his military family.

Mr. William Dean Taylor of Dothan
William Dean Taylor, a resident of Dothan, passed away early Wednesday morning, November 17, 2004 at his residence. He was 59. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, November 20 at Bethlehem Assembly of God in Grangerburg with Rev. Heath Kahlbau officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 PM Friday, November 19 at Southern Heritage Funeral Home.

Mr. Charles Edward White of Headland
Mr. Charles Edward White, age 60, a resident of 204 Railroad Street, Headland died early Sunday January 23, 2005 at his residence. Funeral services will be held at 2:30 PM today, January 25, 2005 at the Southern Heritage Funeral Home Chapel with the Reverend Charles W. Price, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow in the Headland Methodist Cemetery with Full Military Honors and Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will be receiving friends at the funeral home from 1 PM until 2:15 PM today prior to services. At all other times the family will be at the residence in Headland. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 2346 W. Main St. Ste. 3, Dothan, Alabama 36303.

Mr. Billy Howard Nicholas of Avon
Billy Howard Nicholas, a resident of Avon, passed away early Tuesday morning, November 23, 2004 at his residence following an extended illness. He was 72 years old. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM Friday, November 26 in the Chapel of Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Chaplain Mike Dease officiating. Burial will follow in Crestlawn Memorial Cemetery with full military honors and Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will only be receiving friends from 9:00 – 10:00 AM prior to the funeral service on Friday. Flowers will be accepted or contributions may be made to Alacare Home Health & Hospice, 4752 Highway 280 E., Birmingham, AL 35242. Mr. Nicholas was born June 16, 1932 in Alton, MO to the late Pearl and William Nicholas. He retired from the U.S. Army after more than 22 years of service. He moved to the Dothan area from Marianna, FL in 1992 following his retirement from Sunland. Mr. Nicholas is preceded in death by his parents, two sons, Billy Joe Nicholas and Gilbert Lee Nicholas; two sisters, an infant sister and Ann Whittington; three brothers, Rhea Nicholas, Bob Nicholas, Ben Nicholas. Survivors include his wife Dorothy Sykes Nicholas, Avon; one son, Warren and wife Marie Nicholas, Griffin, GA; one step-son, Daniel Wilson, Avon; two daughters, Janet Nicholas Parrish, Cypress, FL, Debra Nicholas Felts, Marianna, FL; one step-daughter, Wanda and husband Daniel Mathis, Avon; six grandchildren; two step-granddaughters; three great-grandchildren; four step-great-grandchildren; two brothers-in-law, Glenn and wife Helen Whittington, Alton, MO, Ronnie and wife Brenda Sykes, Ashford; three sisters, Minnie and husband Don Pingleton, Alton, MO, Marie and husband Jim Robinson, Borger, Texas, Mary Kay and husband Donald Lang, St. Louis, MO; numerous special nieces and nephews. Serving as active pallbearers will be Jacob Parrish, Billy R. Nicholas, Daniel Wilson, Daniel Mathis, Lonnie Beasley, Carter Mathis.

Mr. Loyd Edward Powers
Loyd Edward Powers, passed away late Monday afternoon, November 22, 2004 at his residence. He was 69. Mr. Powers wishes were for his body to be cremated and the family will have a memorial service at a later date. Mr. Powers is survived by a daughter, Kim Minnis, Livermore, CA; a son, Loyd Earl Powers, Madill, OK; sister, Margarette Ellis, Dothan and a brother, Dan Powers.

Ms. Vera Imogene (Clade) Paul of Daleville
Ms. Vera Imogene (Clade) Paul, age 76, a resident of Daleville, Alabama (formerly of Paragon, Indiana) died Tuesday February 15, 2005 at the Long Term Care at Southeast Alabama Medical Center in Dothan, Alabama. Ms. Paul was born on June 24, 1928 in Louisville, Indiana the daughter of the late Urban Hayes Goss and Beatrice Louise Allee Goss. She had been a resident in Daleville, Alabama for the past three years moving from Paragon, Indiana. Ms. Paul was a homemaker for all of her life and she was a member of the Forest Hills Baptist Church in Daleville, Alabama. Survivors include: four daughters, Michelle Clade, Daleville, AL; Teresa Blades, Ridgefield Park, NJ; Denise Riordan, Edison, NJ; Diana Malik, New Milford, NJ; a brother and sister-in-law, Urban and Martha Goss, Paragon, Indiana; a sister, Marlene Kinder, Indiana; 7 grandchildren; father of her children, Raymond Clade, Teaneck, NJ. A private family memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to one’s favorite charity.

Mr. James David Loftin, Sr. of Dothan
Jim Loftin, (James David Loftin, Senior) died Thursday, December 16, 2004, surrounded by his family. If such a man could possibly be described in one word, the word would be “Faithful.” Jim was faithful to the Lord, faithful to his wife, faithful to his children and grandchildren, faithful to his friends, faithful in his service to the church, his community, and the University of Alabama and faithful in the work of his hands. Funeral Services will be held at St. Columba Catholic Church in Dothan at 1:00 p.m., Monday, December 20, 2004, with Reverend Patrick Gallagher officiating. Burial will follow at Memory Hill Cemetery with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends at the St. Columba Parish Hall following the Burial. The Wake Service for Mr. Loftin will be held on Sunday, December 19, 2004, at 3:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary at St. Columba Church followed by visitation in the Church Parish Hall, adjacent to the Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Jim Loftin Scholarship Fund at the University of Alabama, P.O. Box 870122, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0122 or to a favorite charity. Jim Loftin was born on November 14, 1935 in Dothan, Alabama, to the late David C. Loftin and the late Shelley Sheehan Loftin. Jim Loftin graduated from Dothan High School in 1954 and was awarded a football scholarship to the University of Alabama where he pursued a Batchelor’s Degree in Transportation within the College of Commerce & Business Administration. He was captain of the Crimson Tide Football team in 1957, received the Coach Frank Thomas Award for Leadership, and was a member of the A-Club. He was the only UA player asked to play in both the Blue-Gray Football Game and the Senior Bowl in 1957 and was drafted by the Detroit Lions in 1958. Jim Loftin’s involvement and service to the University of Alabama extended throughout his lifetime. An active member of the Houston-Henry County Alumni Chapter, he served as President and Scholarship Chairman. In 1982, he started a scholarship fundraising event, “Bama Day in Dothan,” an annual event that has financially assisted over 350 students from Houston and Henry Counties. In 1990, he was named to the Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama. In 1998, he and his wife, Marian, were honored with the Henry & Julia Tutwiler Distinguished Service Award “in recognition of distinguished and exceptional service to the University of Alabama and the people of Alabama” and in 2004, the Loftins received the Frances S. Summersell Award given by Omicron Delta Kappa Honorary to “those whose vision, beneficence, and compassion have enhanced the educational mission of the University of Alabama and improved the quality of life in the state of Alabama.” In 2004, he was nominated for the Paul W. Bryant Alumni-Athlete Award. In 1966, after owning Jim Loftin Moving & Storage in Birmingham, Jim returned to his beloved hometown of Dothan to join his father, D.C. Loftin in Acme Moving & Storage Company. He was very involved in economic and community development, serving as Chairman of the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce 2 terms in 1980-82, and Chairman of the Industrial Development Committee for 1982-84. Other community service included: City of Dothan Recreation Board Chairman 1978-88, receiving the State of Alabama Lay Citizen Award (association’s highest award) from the Alabama Parks & Recreation Board in 1992; Southeast Alabama Medical Center Board of Directors 1986-1997; Bi-Racial Committee of Dothan 1971-1993; Army Aviation Museum Founding Board 1970-1989 at Ft. Rucker; Boy Scouts of America, Ala-Flo Council; Dothan Boys Club Board; Dothan Rotary Club 1976-present. He worked as director of Corporate Sales for COVAN International. A dedicated Churchman, Jim Loftin was an active member of St. Columba Catholic Church. He is a Lay Lector, taught 10th grade Bible classes, and is a member of the Knights of Columbus. At the recommendation of Archbishop Oscar Lipscomb, Jim was named a Papal Knight of St. Gregory, and is also a member of the Order of the Holy Sepulchre, an international spiritual and philanthropic organization committed to the upkeep of holy and historical sites in Jerusalem and the Holy Land. In 1987, Jim served a Dioceses Chairman of the Catholic Charities Annual Fundraising Drive. Jim Loftin was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Cameron Leigh Loftin, and infant twin sons, Joseph James Loftin and Patrick Michael Loftin. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Marian Accinno Loftin; children, Valerie Shevlin (Rick) of Atlanta, Georgia; Jim Loftin, Jr. (Amy) of Dothan; Courtney Loftin of Montgomery; David Loftin (Patty) of Headland; grandchildren: Cameron Shevlin; Thomas Shevlin; Elizabeth Loftin; Claire Loftin; and David Mario Loftin, Jr.; sisters, Jeanette McCollum and Evelyn McMoy (C.L.); godsons, Jonathon Kaz Espy of Dothan; Gary Paul Washington of Birmingham; Brian Christopher Short of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Devontay Davis of Dothan. Pallbearers will be Collier Espy, Jr., Steve McCarroll, Paul Angeloff, Roy Watford, William Lies, III, William Nomberg, Art Solomon, Merritt Holman, Thomas J. (Jack) Barkley, John Hicks, David Rader, and Tony Davis.

Mrs. Grace Kennedy McIntosh of Dothan
Grace Kennedy McIntosh, a resident of Dothan, AL, died Saturday, December 18, 2004 at the resident of her daughter and son-in-law at Thomas Mill Creek in Abbeville. She was 82. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 20, 2004 at Southern Heritage Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Gerald Ross officiating and Southern Heritage directing. The family will receive friends at 10:00 –10:45 a.m. prior to services. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Wiregrass Hospice of Eufaula, 831 W. Washington Street, Eufaula, AL 36027 or to your favorite charity. Mrs. McIntosh was born October 23, 1922 in Coffee County, AL to the late George Henry and Malinda Danford Kennedy. She was married for 54 years to Eugene (Gene) C. McIntosh, who predeceased her in July, 1996. Mrs. McIntosh was a homemaker most of her life but for a few years was owner/operator of Grace’s Beauty Shop in Dothan. She was a member of Ridgecrest Baptist Church. She was also preceded in death by her three sisters and their spouses, Virgil and Nancy Holloway, Lloyd and Jewel Durden, John and Ruth Herrington; three brothers and their spouses, Ervin and Linnie Kennedy, Aubrey and Eura Kennedy, Ed and Vera Kennedy. She is survived by one daughter and son-in-law, Jerry and Sue (McIntosh) Odom and one son and daughter-in-law, Paul E., SR. and Judy (Smith) McIntosh of Madison, AL; two grandsons and their spouses, Lee and Beverly Odom, Abbeville, AL, and Drs. Paul E. and Emily McIntosh, Madison, AL; five great-grandchildren, Cody Odom, Courtney Odom, Hunter Odom, Nikkie Smith, and Alex McIntosh; three special sisters-in-law, Marguerite McIntosh, Crestview, FL and Kathy (McIntosh) Nesmith, Cleveland, AL, Effie McIntosh, Huntsville, AL; several nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank the dedicated caregivers of Wiregrass Hospice and special caregiver Annette Skipper and Katie Shaw. We appreciate the loving care and kindness extended to our family. Mrs. McIntosh’s nephews will serve as pallbearers.

Mr. James Carrol Sheffield of Dothan
James Carrol Sheffield, a resident of Dothan, died Thursday morning, December 30, 2004 at his residence. He was 72. Funeral services for Mr. Sheffield will be held 2 pm, Saturday, January 1, 2005 at the Southern Heritage Funeral Home chapel with Rev. Gerald Casson officiating. Burial will follow in the Bethel Cemetery in Cedar Springs, GA with Southern Heritage directing. The family will receive friends from 12:30 to 1:30 pm at the funeral home prior to the service. Flowers are being accepted or you may make memorial contributions to, Wiregrass Hospice, PO Drawer 2127, Dothan, AL 36302 or Highland Park United Methodist Church, 1619 S. Park, Dothan, AL 36301 Mr. Sheffield was born in Miller County, GA, May 12, 1932 to the late Walter and Vera Sheffield. He attended high school in Jakin, GA and later Berry College in Rome, GA. He has lived in Dothan since 1978 and was an Independent Insurance Agent and a veteran of the United States Army having served in the Korean War. His parents and two sisters, Voleda Ivey and Lois Sheffield, preceded Mr. Sheffield in death. He is survived by his wife, Winifred Sheffield; four daughters, Christine Greer, Atlanta, GA, Donna Sheffield, Manhattan, Kansas, Shirley Burks, Charleston, South Carolina, Jane Sheffield, Brandon, Florida; three sons, Walter Sheffield, Atlanta, Georgia, James Sheffield, San Francisco, California, Philip Sheffield, Birmingham, Alabama and one step-daughter, Sue Widgeon, Jacksonville, Florida; eight grandchildren also survive. Serving as active pallbearers will be: Flecther Moore, Charles Woodham, Gip Kingry, Joe Miller, David Greer, Charles Moulton, Joe Greer and Les Widgeon.

Mr. Lavelle E. Williams
Lavelle E. “Shorty” Williams, passed away at his home early Sunday morning, January 2, 2005. He was 82. Funeral services for Mr. Williams will be held 2 p.m. today, January 4, 2005 at the Southern Heritage Funeral Home chapel with Rev. Wallace Russell officiating. Burial will follow at Gardens of Memory with Southern Heritage directing. Flowers are being accepted or memorial contributions may be made to Wiregrass Hospice, PO Drawer 2127, Dothan, AL 36302. Mr. Williams was born and raised in Smith County, Mississippi and attended high school in Mize, MS. He served six years in the United States Navy serving three years in the South Pacific aboard a destroyer called the Mustin in WW II as a 3C gunner. He returned from the war in 1945. Mr. Williams had an insurance business for a period of time and later worked for Montgomery Wards as an appliance manager. He later retired in 1983 after 30 years of service with Montgomery Wards. Mr. Williams was also a 32nd degree Mason, member of the VFW and DAV. He attended Bethel Baptist Church where he was a member of the Dempsey Seay Sunday School class. Mr. Williams enjoyed spending time with his family and being out and about socializing with friends. Mr. Williams is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Estelle Ates Williams, wife, Wilera Williams and several aunts and uncles. He is survived by two daughters and one son in law, Patsy Williams, Dothan, Sybil and Earl Starling, Dothan; one son and daughter in law, Billy J. and Linda Townsend, San Antonio, TX; seven grandchildren, Shannon (Mickey) Broadhead, Traci Holley, Tommy (Felicia) Starling, Scott Starling, Corey Starling, Kevin M. Townsend, Kerry (Kerri Beth) Townsend; eight great grandchildren, Macey B. Starling, Frankie Broadhead, Skyler Broadhead, Kelsey Gill, Taylor Holley, Jacob Townsend, Madeline Townsend, Maria Starling; one sister, Audelle Williams Sellers, Citronelle, AL; one brother and sister-in-law, Kater W. and Jean Williams, Dothan; several nieces and nephews also survive. Honorary pallbearers will be the members of the Dempsey Seay Sunday School class.

Mr. Miles Steven Blankenship of Headland
Mr. Miles Steven Blankenship, age 87, a resident of 3535 County Road 12, Headland, Alabama died early Sunday January 2, 2005 at Flowers Hospital. Funeral services will be held at 10 A.M. today January 4, 2005 at the Southern Heritage Funeral Home Chapel with U.S. Air Force Chaplain Rob Sugg officiating. Burial will follow in the Gardens of Memory Cemetery with Full Military Honors and with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will be receiving friends at the funeral home from 9 A.M. to 9:45 A.M. Tuesday prior to services. At other times the family will be at the home of the daughter, Beverly Blankenship Campos, 3631 Co. Rd. 12, Headland, Alabama. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to the local Disabled American Veterans Association Chapter 87, 111 North Saint Andrews Street, Dothan, Alabama 36301. Mr. Blankenship was born on March 15, 1917 in Blount County the son of the late Daniel Marion Blankenship and Ruby Mae Riddle Blankenship. He had been a resident of Headland for the past 34 years moving from Auburndale, Florida. Mr. Blankenship was retired from the U.S. Air Force following 28 years. He was a veteran of World War II and the Korean Conflict. Mr. Blankenship also retired from the Amoco Propane Gas Company in Dothan. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Lois Lavett Blankenship and a sister, Dorothy Teal. Survivors include: daughter and son-in-law, Beverly Blankenship Campos and husband, Jhon, Headland; son and daughter-in-law, Danny and Jane Blankenship, Ocala, FL; three grandchildren, Wesley Blankenship and Courtney Blankenship both of Wicksburg; Alaina Keith, Ocala, FL; two sisters, Blanche Phillips, Yantis, TX; Ruth Owens, Albuquerque,N.M.; brother-in-law and sister-in-laws, Ed and Linda Moore, Columbia, Bonnie Sanders, Lakeland, FL; several nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Barbara Fetter a resident of Dothan Southern Heritage Funeral Home & Crematory Mrs. Barbara Fetter, a resident of Dothan, passed away early Sunday morning, December 19, 2004 at Extendicare Hospice Facility. She was 69. A memorial service will be held at 2:30 PM, Thursday, January 6, 2005 at the First Church of the Nazarene with Rev. Mark O. Berry officiating and Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 2:00-2:30 PM prior to service and a fellowship time will follow the service in the Family Life Center. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Wiregrass Hospice, P.O. Drawer 2127, Dothan, AL 36302 or First Church of the Nazarene, 1081 Honeysuckle Road, Dothan, AL 36303. Mrs. Fetter was born June 4, 1935 in Miami, FL to the late Mildred Mayhew and Jack Whelchel. She lived in Dothan 16 months having moved here from Alpena, MI. She was a life member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary #2496, and was a member of the Nazarene Church in Alpena, MI. Mrs. Fetter worked as a sitter and aid to many children and adults. Barbara (Granny or Grandma Barb) leaves behind many children and loving friends that have touched her life and she dearly loved – Marlene Fetter and family, Anna Quagon and family, Gary and Donna Roussin and family, Clementine (Dolly) Davey, Charlotte and Alfred Bradbury, Edna Hall, Eric and Ashley Hunault, Evan and Alyese, Vicky, Leon Thrasher and family, Bob and Fran Garant and family, and Phil Villeneuve all of Alpena, MI. Also, John and Charlotte Black, Kathy of Hearts and Hands, the Rehab and Hospice staff of Extendicare, Bill Thomas, Chuck and Susan King of Ozark, and the members of the Dothan and Alpena First Church of Nazarene. Barbara dedicated her life to caring for others. She always found time to see the beauty of each person that touched her life. She enjoyed the simple things in life and always had a smile and kind words for anyone who crossed her path. She truly never met a stranger. She is preceded in death by her husbands, Theodore Fetter II and John Rembowski and one brother, Eugene Pelley. Mrs. Fetter is survived by two daughters and a son-in-law, Vanessa Covney, Kalamozoo, MI, Carolann and David Roussin, Dothan, AL; four stepchildren, Diane Vander Muellen, Clinton Township, MI, Debra Trent, Warren, MI, Theodore Fetter III, Ferndale, MI, Danny Joe Fetter, Harrison Township, MI; twelve grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren; one brother, Charles Whelchel, Miami, FL. Our world will be darker for her passing, but our night sky will be ten-fold brighter for the new star God has made room for in Heaven.

Mrs. Ruby (Betty) Burk of Hodgesville
Ruby (Betty) Burk, a resident of Hodgesville, died Sunday afternoon March 6, 2005 at her residence. She was 80. Funeral services for Mrs. Burk will be held at 2: 30 pm Wednesday, March 9, 2005 at Hodgesville Baptist Church with Reverends Michael Woodham and Gene Gainous officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held from 1pm until 2:15 pm at the church prior to the service. Flowers are being accepted or memorial contributions may be made to Wiregrass Hospice, PO Drawer 2127, Dothan, AL 36302 or Hodgesville Baptist Church Building Fund, 11190 S. Co. Road 33, Dothan, AL 36301 Mrs. Burk was born December 20, 1924 in the Madrid area to Eddie and Ruby Watford. She moved to Okeechobee, Florida as a child and later moved back to Hodgesville in 1951. Mrs. Burk was involved with the Watford & Burk Cotton Gin until 1972. She was a housewife and a loving mother and grandmother. Mrs. Burk is preceded in death by her parents, husband, Vernon L. Burk; daughter, Brenda K. Temple; brothers, Mark Watford, Ed Watford, Jr.; sister, Corine Ragsdale; special friend, I.B. Devane. Survivors include two sons and daughters-in-law, Joe and Debora Letourneau Burk, Larry and Patsy Hasty Burk all of Dothan; one sister, Ann King, Covington, GA; seven grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

Mr. Edmond Bryant of Midland City
Edmond Bryant, a resident of Midland City, AL, departed this life on January 7, 2005, at the age of 65. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM on Sunday, January 16, 2005 at Bethesda Apostolic Faith Temple Church, 800 Lennox Avenue, Dothan,with Bishop Roy White officiating and with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation today, January 15 from 5:00 – 8:00 PM and a Wake Service beginning at 6:00 PM at Southern Heritage Funeral Home. The body will lie in state one hour prior to services in the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the “Edmond Bryant Medical Fund” at any SouthTrust Bank. Mr. Bryant was born February 24, 1939 in Houston County to Mayola Bryant and the late Willie Mack Bryant. He worked for Saliba Construction Company and Faulkner Construction Company until he became ill in 1993. He was the beloved husband of Pastor Rosalie Payton Bryant; the father to six sons, John W. (Patricia) Crews, Jr., Jeffrey (Nicole) Crews, Johnny L. (Gail) Bryant, Tony Edmond (Mary) Bryant, Kenneth E. Bryant, Zackery Milles; three daughters, Sharee Chapman, Bonita (Reginald) James, Cynthia (Harold) Perry; stepfather of Theresa (Charles) Jones; godfather of Will Calhoun; brother of Willie Earl (Wanda) Bryant, Willie C. (Betty) Bryant, Bruce (Lualice) Bryant, David Lee Bryant, Willie Mae Bryant, Zola May Tyer, Ora Bell (Johnny) Brown and Linda D. McCreary; also brother-in-law of Earl E. Payton, Eldridge E. Payton, Regena P. (Jesse) Jones and Patricia P. Lopez; all of New Orleans, La. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, two great-grand children, and a host of uncles, aunts, and other relatives and friends. Asked to serve as pallbearers will be: Tony E. Bryant, John W. Crews, Johnny L. Bryant, Bruce Bryant, David Lee Bryant and Charles Jones.

Mrs. Carolyn Ruth Manter Shafer
Carolyn Ruth Manter Shafer, went to be with her Lord and Savior early Sunday morning, January 16, 2005 at her residence. She was 65. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. today, January 18, 2005 at the chapel of Southern Heritage Funeral Home with Reverend’s Herbert Whatley and Delbert Freeman officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park with Southern Heritage Funeral Home directing. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to the Wiregrass Hospice, Inc., P.O. Drawer 2127, Dothan, Alabama 36302. Mrs. Shafer was born on May 5, 1939 in Dayton, Kentucky the daughter of Fred William Manter and the late Dorothy Burns Manter. She worked as a homemaker for most of her life. Mrs. Shafer supported her husband through 20 years of service in the U.S. Air Force. After Rev. Shafer retired from the Air Force she supported him as a dedicated wife serving several Methodist churches in Alabama and Florida. She was member of the Rocky Creek United Methodist Church near Ashford, Alabama. She was a member of the Lucy Hathaway Cornerstone Prayer Group. She was preceded in death by her mother, Dorothy Manter. Survivors include her husband, Reverend Richard J. Shafer, Dothan; father, Fred William Manter, Dothan; brother, Tom Manter, Pisgah Forest, North Carolina; two nieces, Heather and Holly Manter, Clearwater, Florida. Honorary pallbearers will be the members of the Lucy Hathaway Prayer Group.

Mr. Roy Cecil Johnson of Dothan
Roy Cecil Johnson, a resident of Dothan, passed away Friday, March 11, 2005 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center. He was 74. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, March 14, 2005 at Southern Heritage Funeral Home chapel with Rev. Raymond Holt officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow at Memory Hill cemetery with Southern Heritage directing. The family will receive friends this afternoon from 4 until 6 p.m. at the funeral home. Flowers are being accepted. Mr. Johnson was born April 11, 1930 to George and Catherine Johnson and was a lifelong resident of Houston County. He joined the United States Navy in 1948 and served four years with the Navy. Mr. Johnson married Nellie Mitchell in 1954 and joined the United States Air Force later that year. He retired from the Air Force as a Tech Sergeant. Mr. Johnson enjoyed fishing and gardening during his retirement. His wife and parents, two brothers, Max and Gene Johnson, precede Mr. Johnson in death. Survivors include three daughters and two sons-in-law, Sheila and Rusty Seaborn, Greenville, AL, Janet Seaborn and Ricky Lewis, Vernon, AL, Susan Elizabeth Johnson, Dothan; one son, Eddie Johnson, Dothan; nine grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Eudine King, Panama City, FL, Kathleen Buff, Pelham, AL, Marjorie Morrill, Greenwood, FL; one brother, Fred B. Johnson, Dothan.

Mrs. Janet Christine Lancaster Ledford Parris
Mrs. Janet Christine Lancaster Ledford Parris went to join her Heavenly Father on March 10, 2005 after a brief illness. She was 53. Janet was a loving wife and mother. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Lancaster and Dr. and Mrs. N.A. Hawks. She was a member of the Church of Christ. Janet is survived by her husband, William Parris; her parents, Dr. and Mrs. William Lancaster; and two daughters, Mrs. Amy Terry and husband Dutch, Mrs. Jenny Hamill and husband Jimmy; five grandchildren, Christopher Willis, Mia Ledford, Aidan Terry, Conor Terry and Rowan Terry. She leaves two brothers, John W. Lancaster and wife Billie, Paul Lancaster and wife, Pam; one sister, Mrs. Jean Willis and husband Elton. Her memory will be treasured by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and dear friends. At her request, there will be no memorial service. Her ashes will be scattered at sea. In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made to Wiregrass Hospice, P.O. Drawer 2127, Dothan, AL 36302 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 332 N. Lauderdale, Memphis, TN 37105.

Mr. Ray Shiver Baggett of Troy
Ray Shiver Baggett, 74, of Troy died on Saturday, January 22, 2005, following surgery at Southeast Alabama Medical Center in Dothan. He was a teacher and an Athletic Trainer at the college level for 52 years. The celebration of his life service will be at 2:00 PM on Friday, January 28, 2005 at Bottoms Garden Chapel in Geneva, AL with his nephew the Rev. Bill Baggett of Miami, FL officiating. Burial will follow in the family plot in Geneva. Visitation is noon to 2:00 PM at Bottoms Garden Chapel. The family suggests that should friends so desire memorial contributions be made to the charity of their choice. Southern Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory will be handling local arrangements. Mr. Baggett was born October 12, 1930 in Geneva, AL to the late Homer C. Baggett and Jannett Shiver Baggett. He graduated from Geneva High School in Geneva, AL and served in the United States Air Force. He received a B.S. degree in Physical Education from Troy State College in Troy, AL. His M.S. degree in Athletic Training came from Indiana University at Bloomington, IN and his doctorate degree in Sports Medicine was earned at the University of Alabama at Tuscaloosa. He was on the faculty and an Athletic Trainer at Indiana University, West Point Military Academy, and spent 30 years at Indiana State University in Terre Haute, IN. After his retirement from ISU, he returned to Troy State University where he was currently teaching. Mr. Baggett was a lifetime member of the National Athletic Trainers Association and Phi Delta Kappa National Honorary. During his career he touched and lovingly guided the lives of thousands of young men and women. He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant son, James Thomas Baggett; three brothers, Homer, Leroy and his wife Hattie, Fred and his wife Savannah; a sister Annie Will Campbell and her husband Angus Campbell. Survivors include his daughter and son-in-law, Sharae Lyn and Steven Henderson; two grandsons, Cory Baggett and Jade Henderson of Terre Haute, IN; his special friend, Annie Ruth Vaughan, Geneva, AL; sisters, Lura Nell Love and husband Carl, Panama City, FL, Virgie Parks and husband Everett, Albion, IN, Margie McMillan, Wadley, GA, Lucille Harrell and husband Richard, Panama City, FL and Marion, IN, Maunette Dowling and husband Oscar, Panama City, FL; nieces and nephews; friends and colleagues.

Mrs. Annie C. Williams of Dothan
Annie C. Williams, a resident of Dothan, passed away Sunday evening, March 20, 2005 at Extendicare Health & Rehabilitation Center following an extended illness. She was 93. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 23, 2005 at the Southern Heritage chapel with Rev. Troy Walsingham and Rev. Earl Bridges officiating. Burial will follow at New Zion Freewill Baptist Church in Tumbleton with Southern Heritage directing. The family will receive friends from 6 – 8 p.m. tonight at the funeral home. Flowers are being accepted or memorial contributions may be made to Wiregrass Hospice, P.O. Drawer 2127, Dothan, AL 36303 or The Christian Lighthouse, 1307 Carlson Road, Dothan, AL 36301. Mrs. Williams was born July 10, 1911 to Daniel and Maggie Elizabeth Geeslin Bridges. She was raised in Henry County and later moved to Dothan in 1970. Mrs. Williams was a retired lunchroom worker for the Henry County School System. She enjoyed taking care of people and was known for her cooking and flowers. Mrs. Williams was a member of The Christian Lighthouse Church. Mrs. Williams is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Wesley Williams; daughter, Martha Ann Williams; son Wayne Ray Williams; great-grandson, Gavin Seay. Survivors include three daughters and three sons-in-law, Dorothy and Zack Bush, Phenix City; Glenda and Bobby Forrest, Dothan; Sharon and David Kilgore, Dothan; a son and daughter-in-law, Bobby and Shirley Williams, Headland; 11 grandchildren; three step grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; three step great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren. The family wishes to thank Mrs. Williams’ extended family of Nurses and CNA’s on Hall 4 and 5.

Mr. Robert Eugene Lovvorn of Dothan
Robert Eugene Lovvorn, 67, a resident of Dothan, went to be with the Lord Monday, March 21, 2005 following an extended illness. Funeral services for Mr. Lovvorn will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 24, 2005 at Pathway Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Jeff Ross officiating. Burial will follow in Memory Hill cemetery with full military honors. The family will receive friends tonight from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Pathway Baptist Church in Robert’s memory, 3551 Flowers Chapel Road, Dothan, AL 36305. Mr. Lovvorn was born September 12, 1937 in Fairfield Highlands, AL and resided there until his acceptance in the United States Navy. He served in the Korean and Vietnam War and retired after 20 years as a Chief on the submarines. Robert resided in several cities prior to retirement, which ended in Fredricksburg, VA. He then relocated to Dothan in 1976 where he began a career with Southern Nuclear Company as a Nuclear Specialist. He gave 28 years and recently retired on July 1, 2004. Mr. Lovvorn was a member of the Fleet Reserve Association where he was vice-president in 1984 and 1985, VFW Post 3073 and a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans. Robert will always be remembered for his dedication to his work and to his family. A daughter, Vachel Lovvorn Sims, precedes Mr. Lovvorn in death. Survivors include his wife of 44 years, Gloria Jane Bird Lovvorn, Dothan; two daughters and sons-in-law, Alicia Lovvorn and Richard Zeski, Madison, MS, Chimene Lovvorn and Jeffrey Carey, Dothan; three granddaughters, Rachel Wilson, Auburn, Tiffany Sims and Winter Bruner both of Dothan; one brother and sister-in-law, James W. and Betty Lovvorn, Fairfield Highlands, AL.

Mr. Rodney Aman of Ashford
Rodney Aman, a resident of Ashford, died Saturday, March 26, 2005 at his residence. He was 56. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Southern Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory.