Peter C. Badali
Peter C. Badali, age 63, of Fort Walton Beach, Fla., died peacefully in his sleep the morning of Dec. 20, 1997. Peter was born in Minneapolis, Minn., and graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1959. Peter moved back to Fort Walton Beach from Washington, D.C., in 1991, after retiring from Honeywell Inc. Peter's life was filled with achievements: son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, friend and mentor. He ended his successful 30-year career with Honeywell as a vice president. During that time he provided many people with the knowledge and understanding of both life and business, passing on his beliefs in God and family, ethics and honesty. He will be truly missed by many, both young and old.
Survivors include his wife and best friend, Mary Jo Badali, of Fort Walton Beach; his son and daughter-in-law, Paul and Renee Badali, of Springhill, Tenn.; his daughters and sons-in-law, Mary and Jack Head, of Lawrenceville, Ga., Lisa and Whit Harris, of Fort Walton Beach, and Tracy and Bob Dhyani, of Rockville, Md.; his brother and sister-in-law, Anthony and Marie Badali, of Colorado Springs, Colo., and 10 grandchildren.
The family will receive friends at the McLaughlin Mortuary in Fort Walton Beach from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22, 1997. A rosary will be recited at 6 p.m.
A mass of Christian burial will be held at the St. Mary's Catholic Church in Fort Walton Beach at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 23, 1997, with Father Raymond Mullins officiating. Burial will follow in Beal Memorial Cemetery, Fort Walton Beach.
McLaughlin Mortuary, Fort Walton Beach, entrusted with arrangements.
Mary Gautney Krzan
Mary Gautney Krzan, age 50, of Niceville, Fla., passed away Sunday morning, Dec. 21, 1997, in Niceville. Mary was born in DeFuniak Springs, Fla., and has lived in the local area the past 25 years. Mary was preceded in death by her mother, Ellen Ann Gautney; her sisters Elouise Infinger and Okiereeder Gautney; and her brother, Rex Gautney.
She is survived by her husband, Ronald Krzan, of Niceville, (Ret. Air Force and Civil Service); her daughters, Sharon Renee Davis, of Niceville, Carol Post, of Pace, Fla., and Sherry Wiscolmbe, of Pensacola, Fla.; and her son, Danial Krzan, of Pensacola; her brothers and sisters, Max Gautney, Louise Stewart, Wynell Sowell, Lex Gautney, Peggy Infinger, Faye Slay, Ronald Gautney and Donald Gautney. Mary left 10 grandchildren who will miss her greatly and many nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22, 1997, at the McLaughlin Twin City Funeral Home in Niceville.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23, 1997, at the McLaughlin Twin City Chapel with the Rev. Donald Cadenhead officiating. Interment
will follow in Beal Memorial Cemetery, Fort Walton Beach, Fla.
McLaughlin Twin City Funeral Home, Niceville, entrusted with arrangements.
Eva Lee Gosha-Florence
Eva Lee Gosha-Florence, was born Aug. 10, 1935, in Troy, Ala. to parents that preceded her in death. She was raised by her maternal grandmother, the late Rena Bryant. She departed this life on Dec. 17, 1997, at 2:50 a.m.
Eva met and married William Dean Florence (who preceded her in death) in 1957. To this union three children were born, Eddie, Willie (who preceded her in death), and Renita.
Realizing that she needed more in her life, she united with Gregg Chapel A.M.E. Church where she served on the Usher Board and the Senior Missionary Group for many years until her health weakened.
She was well loved by those who came to know and love her for who she was. She loved her family and friends and will be greatly missed. To Endure: She leaves to cherish her memory, one son, Eddie Charles (Patricia) of Fort Walton Beach; one daughter, Renita of Fort Walton Beach; daughter-in-law, Claretha Florence of Tallahassee, Fla.; her niece Sonya (Patrick) Pate of Pensacola, Fla.; nephew, Willie D. Gosha, whom she raised as her own; mother-in-law, Rosa A. Florence of Fort Walton Beach; uncles, Sylvester Bryant of Chicago, Ill.; Fred Bryant of Troy, Ala.; J.P. Bryant of Ohio; aunts, Cora Bruney of New Jersey; Gussie Florence of Fort Walton Beach; Daisy Johnson of Jacksonville, Fla.; brothers-in-law, Henry Florence of Fort Walton Beach; Johnny (Edna) and Clifford (Dee) Florence of Fort Walton Beach; sisters-in-law, Mary Ann (Leonard) Williams of Fort Walton Beach; Fannie (Robert) Levert of Birmingham, Ala.; one stepson, Anthony McKinnon of Fort Walton Beach; grandchildren, Andre Florence, Mario Williams, Tekia and Sharita Nelson, Kris Florence, Tyra Lovejoy and Mario Florence. A host of cousins, among the dearest Ms. Annette Bryant and Jamie Sue.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23, 1997, at Gregg Chapel A.M.E. Church, Dr. I.E. Cotton, Pastor, with Rev. Leonard Williams officiating.
Amos Elbert Hulion
Amos Elbert Hulion, age 75, of New Harmony died Saturday in Gainesville, Fla. Mr. Hulion was born March 3, 1922, and a lifelong resident of New Harmony. He was Southern Baptist by faith, and a member of New Harmony Baptist Church. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and retired from U.S. Civil Service at Eglin Air Force Base.
He is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Cubie and Mary Hulion, of Interlachen, Fla.; four sisters, Milbra Richardson, of Niceville, Fla., Ruby Blackwell, of Windsor, Fla., Sabra Weeks, of Niceville, and Mary Carlisle, of Windsor; two grandchildren, Tracy and Brian Hulion, of Jacksonville, Fla.
Funeral services will be held 10 a.m. Tuesday at New Harmony Baptist Church. Rev. Ed Anthony will officiate.
Comander Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
W. Chellberg
Lt. Col. Clair Chellberg, U.S. Air Force retired, age 78, of Shalimar, Fla., passed away at his home on December 21, 1997.
He was born in Chesterton, Ind. on February 24, 1919, and moved to the area in 1969 from Rome, N.Y. He retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1969 with over 28 years service. He was a member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Fort Walton Beach; the Playground Amateur Radio Society and for 10 years was secretary of the State of Florida Sunshine District of the Barbershop Singers.
Lt. Col. Chellberg is survived by his wife, Lorraine E. Chellberg of Shalimar, Fla.; one son, Robert C. Chellberg of Shalimar, Fla.; one daughter and son-in-law, Jan and Jim Bailey of Niceville; grandchildren, Carolyn Bracey Silberman and her husband, Todd, of San Antonio, Texas, Christina Bracey of Niceville, James R. Chellberg of Pensacola, Fla. and one great granddaughter, Hope Elizabeth Chellberg of Niceville.
The family will receive friends at Emerald Coast Funeral Home from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24, 1997, in the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Fort Walton Beach with the Rev. Steven F. Marko officiating. Interment, with military honors, will follow in Beal Memorial Cemetery.
Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Emerald Coast Barbershop singers.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 363 S.W. Miracle Strip Parkway, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548.
Emerald Coast Funeral Home, 113 N.E. Racetrack Road, Fort Walton Beach, Fla. is in charge of arrangements.
Thomas "Butch" Nelson Stillman
Thomas "Butch" Nelson Stillman, age 41, of Fort Walton Beach, Fla., passed away Saturday, Dec. 20, 1997, at his home. Mr. Stillman was born in Homestead, Fla., on Jan. 3, 1956.
He is survived by his wife Kay Stillman; parents, Robert and Margaret Doughty; daughter, Krystal Stillman, all of Fort Walton Beach; brother, Calvin Wentling of Montgomery, Ala.; four sisters, Denise L. Raymond of Fort Wayne, Ind., Darlene J. Cometto of Bakersfield, Calif., Theresa Patrick of Fort Walton Beach, and Bobby J. Shoemake of Anchorage, Alaska; also by five nieces and three nephews.
A memorial service will be held December 24, 1997, at Fort Walton Beach Landing, at 2 p.m., with Pastor Charles Samsom, Sr., presiding. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to McLauglin Funeral Home in care of Thomas Stillman.
He will be loved and missed by all that knew him. Rest in peace, Thomas - Butch.
Odis Brown
Odis Brown, age 63, died Sunday, Dec. 21, 1997, at a Pensacola hospital. Mr. Brown was born Sept. 22, 1924, in Niceville, Fla., and was a lifelong resident of Walton County, Fla. He was the founder of Odis Brown Air Conditioning and Refrigeration. He served in the U.S.M.C. during WWII. He was a loving father, brother, grandfather, and great grandfather, who will be missed dearly.
Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, James O. and Nancy Brown; brother, Sheldon A. Brown; four sisters, Odessa O'Neil, Dorothy Hutto, Grace Suggs, and Wynell Esquibell; four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, 3 p.m., at Comander Funeral Home with Rev. Louis Taunton officiating.
Visitations will be held Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. and Tuesday 1 to 3 p.m.
Burial will be in Hacther Cemetery.
Comander Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Norman R. Rogers
Norman Rogers, 78, of 5448 Mt. Olive Rd., Crestview, Fla., passed away Dec. 21, 1997, in a local nursing home. He was a native of Boston, Mass., but has been residing in Okaloosa County for the past 21 years. Rogers is a member of the Southside Baptist Church and a World War II veteran.
He is survived by his wife, Alene Rogers of Crestview; two sons, Norman R. Gordon of Holland, Pa., and Roger Belcher of Destin, Fla.; daughter, Genell Pennington of Crestview; 11 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Dec. 23 at 2 p.m. at Whitehurst Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Randy Huckabee and Rev. Eric Redmond officiating. Burial will follow in the Liveoak Park Memorial Cemetery with Whitehurst Funeral Home directing.
Visitation will be held Dec. 22 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. from the funeral home.
Ronald Theodore Kraus
Ronald Theodore Kraus, 67, of Fort Walton Beach, Fla., died at a local hospital Dec. 20, 1997.
Born in Newark, N.J., Kraus moved to the area in 1978 from Cranford, N.J. He was a retired Technical Sergeant from the United States Air Force, a Mason and is Baptist by faith.
Kraus was preceded in death by his wife Wanda June Kraus in 1991. Survivors include a son, Noah Edward Kraus and his wife Patricia; three daughters; Marie Holland and husband Donald, Ronda Creedon and husband Rich, and Donda Sternberg and husband Charlie; one brother, Daniel Kraus; one sister, Audrey Kornicsak and nine grandchildren.
A time of visitation will be Tuesday, Dec. 23, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Little Chapel Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held at the funeral home at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 24, with Rev. James Cole officiating. Interment
will follow at Beal Memorial Cemetery with full military honors.
Little Chapel Funeral Home, 910 N. Beal Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach, is in charge of arrangements.
Ronald Theodore Kraus
Ronald Theodore Kraus, 67, of Fort Walton Beach, Fla., died at a local hospital Dec. 20, 1997.
Born in Newark, N.J., Kraus moved to the area in 1978 from Cranford, N.J. He was a retired Technical Sergeant from the United States Air Force, a Mason and is Baptist by faith.
Kraus was preceded in death by his wife Wanda June Kraus in 1991. Survivors include a son, Noah Edward Kraus and his wife Patricia; three daughters; Marie Holland and husband Donald, Ronda Creedon and husband Rich, and Donda Sternberg and husband Charlie; one brother, Daniel Kraus; one sister, Audrey Kornicsak and nine grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at the funeral home at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 24, with Rev. James Cole officiating. Interment
will follow at Beal Memorial Cemetery with full military honors.
Little Chapel Funeral Home, 910 N. Beal Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach, is in charge of arrangements.
John Harry Mykicz
Lt. Col. John H. Mykicz, U.S. Air Force Retired, age 71 of Fort Walton Beach, Fla., passed away on Monday, Dec. 22, 1997 in a local hospital.
Mr. Mykicz was born Sept. 4, 1926 in Etna, Pennsylvania to Dmytro and Anastasia Mykicz.
His love of flying took him into aviation and into the United States Air Force proudly serving his country for 33 years and veteran of the Korean Conflict and Vietnam Era.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years Virginia (Ginny) Mykicz and a sister Mary Jane Lee and was an avid golfer and loved life.
Survivors include his sons and daughter-in-law, John C. Mykicz and close friend Christa Lee of Ft. Walton Beach, Fla; Kenneth R. and Patricia Mykicz, of Fort Walton Beach, Fla; daughter and son-in-law, Michele and Hamp Hudson of Fort Walton Beach, Fla; Very special friend, Dot Campbell of Fort Walton Beach, Fla.; Brothers and sisters, Charles Mykicz, Anastasia Podobinski, Anna Evans, Olga Elter, all of Pittsburg, Pa; Grandchildren, Suzanne, Jason, Shane, Jacob and Grant; Great Grandchildren, Wesleigh and Cayden.
Family will be receiving friends Friday evening at McLaughlin Mortuary from 5-7 p.m. Funeral services will be conducted from McLaughlin Mortuary on Saturday, December 27, 1997 at 10:00 a.m. with Fr. Peter Zalewski officiating.
Interment
will follow in Beal Memorial Cemetery with military honors.
Contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 222 Hospital Drive, Fort Walton Beach, Fl 32548.
McLaughlin Mortuary, 17 Chestnut Ave., Fort Walton Beach, Fla is entrusted with the arrangements.
Mae Kamens
Mae "Babe" Kamens, age 92, of Niceville, Fla. passed away in a local health care facility on Tuesday, December 23, 1997. She was born on June 13, 1905, in New Jersey.
She will be dearly missed by her loving relatives and friends.
Survivors include her daughter, Judy Larusso, of Niceville, Fla.; son, Jerry Allen Kamens of Miami, Fla.; four grandchildren, William Moss, Scott Moss, Ross Kamens, and Kelly Kamens and four great grandchildren.
Graveside services will be conducted on Friday, Dec. 26, 1997 at 1:00 p.m. at the Rosevelt Memorial Cemetery, Trevose, Pa. Funeral services are under the direction of Goldsteins, Rosenberg's, Raphael Sacks Inc., 6410 N. Broad St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19126.
Floral tributes are acceptable or for those that may desire may make a memorial contribution to a charity of their choice or to Hospice of N.W. Fla., 1005 W. College Blvd., Niceville, Fla., 32578. In memory of Mae Kamens.
Local services and arrangements entrusted to McLaughlin Twin Cities Funeral Home, 1405 John Sims Parkway, Niceville, Fla., 32578.
Donna Lucille Disbrow Farmer
Donna Lucille Disbrow Farmer of Fort Walton Beach, Fla., died December 24, 1997, at her home after an extended illness. Donna Farmer was born in Aberdeen, S.D., to Bertram and Lucille (Dace) Disbrow on February 20, 1925. She graduated from Central High School, Aberdeen, in 1943 where she enthusiastically participated in many extra-curricular activities. She would have qualified for National Honor Society but for the circumstance of having shared a typing class desk, in 1941, with Owen Farmer. This resulted in a lifelong friendship that included going steady, getting married, and a very low typing grade. Donna was a cheerleader, majorette, class officer, and secretary of the acappela choir. She conducted a baton twirling school in the summer of 1943, and at her fortieth high school reunion was warmly greeted by many of her former students.
On October 30, 1944, she married Capt. Farmer, became a world traveler, and the most gracious ambassador our country could have. She visited her husband in Saigon in 1962, and then traveled to visit him in Nakhon Phanom in 1966.
She was a licensed pilot and avid sailor, representing Fort Walton Yacht Club in several Gulf Yachting Association regattas. She was a member of a synchronized swim team and featured in the "Aqua Follies." She later became a member of the Lucky Strike inter-city bowling team in Fort Walton Beach.
A most supportive wife and mother, she encouraged her daughters in many athletic endeavors, including competition in swim meets and horse shows.
She was preceded in death by her mother and father, five brothers and two sisters.
She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Col. (U.S.A.F. Ret.) Owen (Barney) Farmer; daughters Judyth and her husband William O. Treacy, Susan (Suki) and her husband John MacKay; grandchildren Samantha Handley Dawson and her husband Gregory, Hugh (Tucker) Handley, Edward MacKay and his wife Sarah, and Jacqueline MacKay; one great-grandson, Nicholas Dawson. Also surviving are sisters-in-law and nieces and nephews.
At Donna's request, there will be no formal memorial service. Her cremains will be privately interred.
Donald Kenneth Robinson
Donald Kenneth Robinson, born February 11, 1936, in Philadelphia, Pa. Don passed away Dec. 24, 1997, at his home in Navarre, Fla., after a lengthy illness. A long-time Michigan resident, he moved to Florida in 1996 to live in the sun and play golf, both of which he did quite well. He is survived by Dodie, his loving wife of 26 years, sons Craig and Scott, daughter-in-law Cindi, darling granddaughter Caitlyn, special family friend Wesley Allen, and his two best friends (canine variety) Tara and Rupert.
Services are scheduled for Monday, December 29, 1 p.m., at Lewis Funeral Home in Navarre. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice of Northwest Florida, P.O. Box 17887, Pensacola, FL 32522.
Thomas H. Slaughter
Thomas H. Slaughter, age 80, passed away December 25, 1997. He was born in Rappahanock County, Va., on October 28, 1917. He spent his younger years in Washington, D.C. He enlisted in the District of Columbia National Guard in 1940, 260th Coast Artillery, Anti-Aircraft Gun Battery (Battery D). The unit was federalized in January 1941. He was later transferred to Company I, 8th Infantry, 4th Division. He was wounded in action in Germany December 1, 1944, and was awarded the Silver Star, Purple Heart and other medals. He continued to be a member of the 260th Artillery Association.
He worked for IBM for 35 years, spending 18 years in Green Castle, Ind., and retiring as a Personnel Service Manager to Fort Walton Beach in 1973. During those years he served in various civic and local affairs. He was a member of Shalimar Methodist Church and various local golf groups. An avid golfer, he loved to travel and was particularly fond of the west.
His survivors include his wife of 54 years Fannie May Slaughter, Fort Walton Beach; brother Phillip R. Slaughter Jr., Fort Walton Beach; daughter Nancy S. McAlister, son-in-law Douglas B. McAlister of Cincinnati, Ohio; son Thomas W. Slaughter, daughter-in-law Julie N. Slaughter, Springfield, Ohio; grandchildren Maggie M. McAlister, Santa Monica, Calif., Thomas R. McAlister, Cincinnati, Ohio, Betsy A. Slaughter, Katie N. Slaughter, Laura C. Slaughter, Springfield, Ohio; nephew Warren Slaughter, Alexandria, Va. He was preceded in death by his parents, Philip R. Slaughter, Sarah Elizabeth Slaughter; sister Sue G. Strobel and brother Warren Slaughter. He was a wonderful husband and father and grandfather -- a friend to all and "Doobie" to many. He will be missed.
Memorial services were conducted at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 28, at Shalimar United Methodist Church with the Revs. David Chunn and John Collins officiating. Burial will be at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery. Arrangements by National Cremation Society.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shalimar United Methodist Church or the charity of your choice.
Beverly Louise Parker Scott
Beverly Louise Parker Scott, long-time resident of Fort Walton Beach and active member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home with her family early Christmas morning December 25, 1997.
Beverly was born in Ponchatula, La., to Louise Kevlin Parker and John R. Parker on January 8, 1929. She spent her early years in South Louisiana, graduated from Ponchatula High School and Southeastern Louisiana University. She moved to Fort Walton Beach in 1953, began a brief teaching career in Okaloosa County and soon became a full time wife, mother, homemaker and active volunteer in church activities.
She is survived by her husband of fifty years John M. Scott Sr., and half sister Mary Ann Leonard; one daughter Beverly Maureen Scott; and four sons, John Jr. and wife Pam, Bobby and wife Kathy, David and wife Angie, and Jamie Scott, all of whom reside in the local area; grandchildren Sean Barber and wife Cretia, Jaime, Jason, Leslie, Erica, Derek, Brian; and two great-grandchildren Tyler and Kendall Barber. Beverly's faith in God and love of church and family and treasured friends gave her courage and strength to endure with grace a long battle of illness. She will be sorely missed and remembered forever by her devoted husband and family.
McLaughlin Mortuary is entrusted with the arrangements.
December 28, 1997, 5 to 6 p.m. visitation, 6 to 7 p.m. rosary. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Fort Walton Beach December 29, 1997, at 10 a.m. with burial at Beal Memorial Cemetery.
Clarence B. Robert
Mr. Clarence B. Robert, age 71, of Fort Walton Beach, Fla., died Tuesday, December 23, 1997.
Mr. Robert served in the Army of the United States and was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post, the Loyal Order of Moose, and the American Legion. He was Catholic by faith. Born in New Bedford, Mass., he came to the Fort Walton Beach area six years ago from Norwich, Conn.
Survivors include his loving wife Lillian E. Robert of Fort Walton Beach; sons Michael Robert of Norwich, Conn., Jerome Robert of Voluntown, Conn., John Robert of San Francisco, Calif.; daughters Marie Robert of Niceville, Fla., Theresa Wacker of Speedway, Ind., Lucille Cleveland of Taftville, Conn., Christine Gautreaux of Norwich, Conn., Jeanette Criswell of Benedicto, Maine, and Susan Welch of Norwich, Conn.; two brothers Gerald Robert and Roland Robert; three sisters Roberta Senecal, Lorraine Carter, and Theresa Chenette; seventeen grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
Private interment
services will take place at a later date at Barrancas National Cemetery, Pensacola, Fla.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Northwest Florida, 1005 W. College Blvd., Niceville, FL 32578.
Little Chapel Funeral Home, 910 Beal Parkway, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., is in charge of arrangements.
Beulah Mae Reid
Mrs. Beulah M. Reid, age 84, of Holt, Fla., died Thursday, Dec. 25, 1997, at the Delta Health Care in Sandestin, Fla. Mrs. Reid was born in Seattle, Wash., on Dec. 22, 1913, to John and Ida Crowe and had been a resident of the Northwest Florida area since 1983. She was an accomplished artist and homemaker.
Survivors include her daughter, Judy J. Kasputis, of Holt, Fla.; three grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
A time of visitation will be conducted from the Whitehurst Funeral Home on Monday, Dec. 29, 1997, from 6 until 8 p.m. Funeral services will be conducted from the Chapel of Whitehurst Funeral Home on Tuesday, Dec. 30, 1997, at 10 a.m. with the Rev. Russell Taylor officiating. Additional services and interment
will be conducted from the Miller Woodlawn Funeral Home and Cemetery in Bremerton, Wash.
Services and arrangements are under the direction of the Whitehurst Funeral Home, 436 West James Lee Blvd., Crestview, Fla.,
James M. Kralovec
James M. (Marty) Kralovec passed away Dec. 26, 1997, in a local nursing facility. Marty was born in Cary, Ill., on July 2, 1919. He was preceded in death by his father, George Kralovec, his mother, Anna Zelesny, and his brother, George Jr. He leaves his wife, Harriette M., and his daughters, Alice Nye and Claudia Kralovec. He was the step-father of Robert Brothers, Susan Doerrm, Jude Brothers and Joanne Holmes. He's the grandfather of Rachel Crooke, John Nye, Christian Nye and Timothy Nye. Also surviving are four great-grandchildren, Kylie, Sarah Ashley, Gracie Crooke and Tarah Nye. Burial is in Chicago Dec. 31, 1997. Memorial services are planned in Niceville in January.
Doris L. Barrow
Mrs. Doris L. Barrow, age 66, of Baker, Fla., died Saturday, Dec. 27, 1997, at the North Okaloosa Medical Center. Mrs. Barrow was born in Wing, Ala., on May 18, 1931, to Milton and Arrie Smith Batson and was a longtime resident of the Northwest Florida area. Mrs. Barrow was a devoted and dedicated homemaker, mother and grandmother. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. She attended services at the Yellow River Baptist Church and was preceded in death by her husband, Glenn Barrow.
Survivors include her son, Farrel E. Barrow, of Milton, Fla; two granddaughters, Victoria and Samantha Barrow, also of Milton, Fla; two sisters, Margrette Dreading, of Crestview, Fla., and Noma Motley, of Escambia Farms, Fla; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A time of visitation will be conducted from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, Dec. 29, 1997, at the Whitehurst Funeral Home. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30, 1997, at the Yellow River Baptist Church. Mrs. Barrow will be placed in the church one hour prior to the funeral service. Interment
will follow the service in the Yellow River Baptist Church Cemetery.
Arrangements and services are under the direction of the Whitehurst Funeral Home, 436 W. James Lee Blvd., Crestview, Fla.
Billie Armbruster Thornton
Billie Armbruster Thornton, age 71, beloved wife, mother and grandmother, passed away early Saturday, Dec. 27, 1997. A native of Birmingham, Ala., she had resided in Destin, Fla., for the last 15 years. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends. She is survived by her husband of 27 years, Hugh Thornton; her three children, Archie and (Teresa) Brook, Georgia and (Richard) Brown of Birmingham, Ala., and Babs Ingram, of Sun Valley, Idaho; three grandchildren, Ashley Brook of Destin, Fla., Dustin and Kyle Moore, of Birmingham, Ala.; and sister and brother-in-law, Nina and Hank Hamilton, of Birmingham, Ala.
A memorial service was held at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church on Sunday, Dec. 28, 1997. Next week another memorial service will be held in her hometown of Destin at the First United Methodist Church, where she is a member.
Frank D. Clary
Mr. Frank D. Clary, age 81, of Laurel Hill, Fla., died Sunday, Dec. 28, 1997, at the North Okaloosa Medical Center in Crestview, Fla. Mr. Clary was born in Laurel Hill, Fla., on Nov. 6, 1916, to Frank and Sara Senterfitt Clary and had resided in the Northwest Florida area since 1976. He was retired from Greyhound Bus Lines as a commercial driver and had 34 years in his profession. He was also a member of the Magnolia Baptist Church. Mr. Clary was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Survivors include his wife, Anna N. Clary; one son and daughter-in-law, Dean and Debbie Clary, all of Laurel Hill; two daughters and sons-in-law, Gayle and Donald Willard, of Walnut Cove, N.C., and Pat and Ken Earwood, of Lawrenceville, Ga.; 13 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Mr. Clary was preceded in death by a son, Richard D. Clary, in 1967.
A time of visitation will be conducted from the Whitehurst Funeral Home on Tuesday, Dec. 30, 1997, from 6 until 8 p.m. Funeral services will be conducted from the Chapel of Whitehurst Funeral Home on Wednesday, December 31, 1997, at 10 a.m. with the Rev. Sammy Hiers officiating. Interment
will follow the service in the Magnolia Cemetery in Laurel Hill. Arrangements and services are under the direction of Whitehurst Funeral Home, 436 West James Lee Blvd., Crestview, Fla.
Emil F. Gelenczei
Dr. Emil F. Gelenczei, age 76, of Seagrove Beach, Fla., passed away on Dec. 25, 1997. In his last days he had often mentioned his Christmas wish was to have his family around him so he could lovingly say goodbye. Then with all his heart he wished to return to the warm embrace of the love of his life, his wife of 49 years, Edith K. Gelenczei, who passed away three months earlier. Our father was a wise, strong and loving family man who was always there for his wife and children. On Christmas morning the Lord granted Dr. Emil F. Gelenczei his wish.
Dr. Gelenczei was born May 1921 in Budapest, Hungary. He received his D.V.M. and his P.h.D. in microbiology from the University of Agricultural Sciences in Budapest, Hungary, where he also served as assistant professor. A prolific writer, Dr. Gelenczei has authored many scientific papers published both here and abroad.
During his 30 year career in the veterinary biologic field, since leaving his native Hungary in 1956, Dr. Gelenczei had held important research and managerial positions with Pitman-Moore Division of Dow; American Scientific Labs, Division of Schering; Sterwin Labs, Subsidiary of Sterling. Dr. Gelenczei's work in research and product development had resulted in a number of patents and his contributions to the field of veterinary biologics had been of major importance to the industry at large.
Dr. Gelenczei is survived by daughters Edith Gelenczei Hurley and her husband James of Columbia, Md., Adrienne Gelenczei Bazarte and husband Joseph of Niceville, Fla.; son Emil F. Gelenczei III of Seagrove Beach, Fla.; and three grandchildren, Alexis Hurley, Timothy Hurley, and Jacqueline Bazarte.
Dearest Apu (Hungarian for dad) We, your children, could not have asked for a more wonderful father. We will be blessed for the rest of our lives with your loving memory.
Graveside services will be conducted on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 1997, at 1 p.m. at the Point Washington Cemetery with the Rev. Charles Cox officiating. Flowers may be sent to 407 Martinique Cove, Niceville, Fla. 32578.
McLaughlin Mortuary, 17 Chestnut Ave., Fort Walton Beach, Fla., entrusted with the arrangements.
Horace Milton Beast
Mr. Horace Milton Best, age 87, of DeFuniak Springs, Fla., died Monday, Dec. 29, 1997, in the local nursing facility. Mr. Best was born in Kinston, Ala., and had resided in Walton County since 1946. He loved to fish and was Mormon by faith.
Survivors include four sons, H. B. Best, Joseph Best, Roy L. Best, and Richard M. Best; two daughters, Milrose Brown and Myrtle Lee Brown; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
Funeral services for Mr. Best will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, 1997, in the Clary-Godwin Chapel.
Burial will follow in the Magnolia Cemetery.
Friends may call at the funeral home from 6 until 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30, 1997.
Clary-Godwin Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Frank D. Clary
Mr. Frank D. Clary, age 81, of Laurel Hill, Fla., died Sunday, Dec. 28, 1997, at the North Okaloosa Medical Center in Crestview, Fla. Mr. Clary was born in Laurel Hill, Fla., on Nov. 6, 1916, to Frank and Sara Senterfitt Clary and had resided in the Northwest Florida area since 1976. He was retired from Greyhound Bus Lines as a commercial driver and had 34 years in his profession. He was also a member of the Magnolia Baptist Church. Mr. Clary was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Survivors include his wife, Anna N. Clary; one son and daughter-in-law, Dean and Debbie Clary, all of Laurel Hill; two daughters and sons-in-law, Gayle and Donald Willard, of Walnut Cove, N.C., and Pat and Ken Earwood, of Lawrenceville, Ga.; 13 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Mr. Clary was preceded in death by a son, Richard D. Clary, in 1967.
A time of visitation will be conducted from the Whitehurst Funeral Home on Tuesday, Dec. 30, 1997, from 6 until 8 p.m. Funeral services will be conducted from the Chapel of Whitehurst Funeral Home on Wednesday, December 31, 1997, at 10 a.m. with the Rev. Sammy Hiers officiating. Interment
will follow the service in the Magnolia Cemetery in Laurel Hill. Arrangements and services are under the direction of Whitehurst Funeral Home, 436 West James Lee Blvd., Crestview, Fla.
Jane S. Pouncey
Jane S. Pouncey, age 65, of Niceville, Fla., died Monday, Dec. 29, 1997, at her home. Jane was a retired classroom teacher with 40 years experience including schools in Crestview and Fort Walton Beach, Fla., as well as schools in Meridian and Clinton, Miss. She was born in Crestview, Fla., was a former resident of Clinton, Miss., and had resided in Niceville for the past four and a half years. Jane was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Niceville, was a lover of nature and enjoyed plants, animals, and especially birds.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Dr. Jack Stuckey, of New Orleans, La.
Survivors include her husband, Rex Pouncey of Niceville; her daughters, Toni C. Spell of Jackson, Miss., and Carol A. Pouncey of Ridgeland, Miss.; her brother, Joe Bob Stuckey of Fort Walton Beach, Fla.; her sister, Miriam Tollett of Baton Rouge, La.; and four grandchildren.
Memorial services will be held at the McLaughlin Twin Cities Chapel in Niceville on Friday, Jan. 2, 1997, at 10 a.m. with the Rev. J. Edward Chandler officiating.
Jane's remains will be cremated and her ashes scattered in nature at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society, 4 Jackson St., NW, Fort Walton Beach, Fla. 32548.
McLaughlin Twin Cities Funeral Home, Niceville, entrusted with arrangements.
Warren H. Luke
Msgt. USAF, retired
Warren H. Luke of Mary Esther, Fla., passed away at his home Dec. 30 after a brief illness. Warren was born March 5, 1921, in Baconton Ga. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in Sept. 1940 and served in the WWII invasion of Europe. In 1941 he met and married his beloved wife Molly in Conway, S.C., with whom he enjoyed over 56 years until her death last February. Warren retired from the U.S. Air Force Oct. 1971 with over 29 years of military service. After his retirement he worked for Vitro Services for several years. He was a member of Masonic Lodge 312, Niceville, Fla., and enjoyed fishing, gardening, and working with his hands.
He is survived by daughters Phyliss J. Amason of Mary Esther, Paula Bloss of Las Vegas, Nev.; grandchildren Chris Amason of Mary Esther, Fla., Paul McCullough and his wife Anne of Las Vegas, Matthew Amason of Mary Esther, and Aaron McCullough of Las Vegas; great grandchild Alyssa McCullough of Las Vegas; brother Robert Luke of Orlando, Fla.; sisters Ruby Wicka of Orlando and Wilma Nelms of Ocala, Fla.; son-in-laws Jim Amason of Mary Esther and Richard Bloss of Las Vegas; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives, friends, and neighbors.
There will be a visitation at McLaughlin Mortuary, Thursday, Jan. 1, 1998, from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral services 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 2, 1998, at McLaughlin Mortuary with burial to follow at Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola.
McLaughlin Mortuary, 17 Chestnut Ave. S.E., Fort Walton Beach, is entrusted with arrangements.
