Ackerman High School Reunion Memorial Blog

Mary Elizabeth Graves

2011-02-24T07:03:00.002-06:00

Mary Elizabeth Graves, 88, passed away Saturday, Feb. 19, 2011, at Choctaw County Nursing Center.

Funeral services will be today at 11 a.m. at Ackerman Baptist Church, with Coleman Funeral Home in charge of all arrangements.

Mrs. Graves was a retired home economics teacher who taught for 23 years. She was an active member of Ackerman Baptist Church for over 60 years, where she served as a Sunday School teacher, Vacation Bible School director, senior adult leader and Women's Missionary Union leader. Mrs. Graves was a strong Christian who encouraged others.

She leaves behind her husband of 61 years, Elvis Lamar Graves; daughters, Martha Carol Schiffman, Nell Bowman, Kay McBee; son, Benny Graves; brother, Frank Benson. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren, one great-grandson and a devoted caregiver, Daisy Miller.

Memorial gifts may be sent to Ackerman Baptist Church at P.O. Box 277, Ackerman, MS 39735.

Kent Griffin

2011-02-24T06:58:00.000-06:00

Kent Griffin, age 59, passed away Tuesday, Feb 15th at his home near Ackerman.

Kent was a 1969 graduate of Ackerman High School. He was a disabled electrician.

Kent was the son of H.A. Griffin, Sr. & Mary Perrigin Griffin. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Edgar and H.A. Griffin, Jr.. He is survived by his two brothers, Tracy (Judith) Griffin of El Paso, TX and Dennis ( Karen) Griffin of Gulfport, Mississippi.

A memorial service was held at Coleman Funeral Home of Ackerman on Saturday, Feb 19, 2011 at 11 am.

Barbara Sue Thompson Michel

2011-02-05T08:36:00.000-06:00

Barbara Sue Thompson Michel, passed away January 28, 2011, after nearly two decades of courageously battling cancer. She was born August 16, 1940, in Ackerman, Miss., the only daughter of Aaron and Alma Thompson. Growing up as a farm girl, Barbara Sue loved animals, nature and music, and throughout her life, she was the compassionate caretaker of countless animals, an accomplished pianist and an exceptional gardener.

In 1958 she graduated from Ackerman High School and went on to attend Millsaps College in Jackson, Miss., where she majored in early childhood education and was in the Phi Mu Sorority. After graduating from Millsaps in 1962, Barbara Sue moved to Natchez, Miss., to become an elementary grade school teacher. While working and living in Natchez, Barbara Sue met the love of her life, Donald Clifford Michel. Barbara Sue married Donald June 9, 1963, in Jackson, Miss., and soon after had three children, Michael, Lisa and Samantha. Over the next 34 years, she and her husband, Donald, raised their children; lived in Mississippi, South Carolina and Brandon, Fla.; socialized with their many friends; and traveled and explored the country.

She was predeceased by her mother, father, and brother, Wilmer, and her husband, Donald, who passed in 1997. She leaves behind her three children and six grandchildren, Kaleigh and Madison Carpenter, Olivia and Jillian Devine, and Zachary and Emily Michel.

Barbara Sue will always be remembered as a wonderful and loving daughter, friend, wife, mother and grandmother. She will forever be missed by her family and friends. There will be a graveside ceremony at 3 p.m. Friday, February 4, 2011, at Hillsboro Memorial Gardens.

To leave your condolences, go to www.hillsboromemorial.com.

Schoolmates, if you are on FB, you can see a video tribute to Barbara Sue by her family.

Keith Allen Hunt

2011-01-16T12:47:00.000-06:00

Funeral services for Keith Allen Hunt, 59, were held at 1:30 p.m., Friday, December 31, 2010 at Ackerman Church of Christ in Ackerman. Lusky Green officiated. Burial followed in Mt. Nebo Cemetery near Ackerman.

A resident of Ackerman, Mr. Hunt was the owner of Keith Hunt Pest Control, Inc. He was also a member of Ackerman Church of Christ. Mr. Hunt died Sunday, December 26, 2010 at his residence near Ackerman.

Survivors include his parents Charlie Hunt, Jr. and Hazel Black Hunt, both of Ackerman, wife Marilyn Ann Pittman Hunt of Ackerman, sons Kevin Hunt of Benton, KY, Kirt Hunt of Ackerman, Ryan Hunt of Nashville, Tenn., daughter Tamara Lockridge of Henderson, Tenn. Brother Darren Hunt of Ackerman, sister Sandy Corban of Brookhaven and three grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to Ackerman Church of Christ.

Coleman Funeral Home of Ackerman was in charge of arrangements. Sign the family registry at http://www.colemanfuneral.com/.

Miss Erin Moss

2010-04-01T05:51:00.001-05:00

Funeral services for Miss Erin Moss, 96, were held at 10 a.m., March 13, 2010 at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman. Rev. Bryan Carruba, Rev. George Buell officiated and Rev. Buddy Smith provided special music. Burial followed in the Enon Cemetery in Ackerman.

A native of Choctaw County, Miss Moss was a retired schoolteacher and a member of South Union Methodist Church near Ackerman. Miss Moss died Tuesday, March 9, 2010 at her residence in Ackerman.

Survivors include sisters Evelyn Moss and Thelma Moss, both of Ackerman, one niece, five great nephews and five great great nieces and nephews.

Coleman Funeral Home of Ackerman was in charge of arrangements.

Read the challenge given by AHS Principal Erin Moss in The Arrow (school paper) to the AHS Class of 1969.

Read the inspirational Memorial Day address given by Miss Moss on May 27, 2001, at South Union Methodist Campmeeting.

Brenda Collier Wallace

2010-03-06T21:55:00.000-06:00

Brenda Collier Wallace, 68, went to be with the Lord Friday, February 19, 2010 at River Oaks Hospital after a long illness. Visitation will be held today from 4:00 - 8:00pm at Baldwin Lee Funeral Home in Pearl. Funeral services will be held Monday, February 22, 2010 at 2pm in the funeral home chapel with interment at Floral Hills Memory Gardens. (Brenda was a member of the Ackerman High School Class of 1959.)

Mrs. Wallace retired from the MS Highway Patrol in 1991 after 32 years. The next day she went to work for the MS State Troopers Assn., where she worked until her illness. She enjoyed 51 years associated with the State Troopers.

She never met a stranger and would talk to anyone. She enjoyed flowers and tending her flower gardens.

She leaves behind her husband, Martin H. Wallace; daughters, Subrena Hinton and Yvette Ellzey (Randy); grandchildren, Matthew Hinton, Lori and Rachel Ellzey; sister, Ann Godfrey (Noel); brother, Hayes "Duke" Collier (Empress); and a host of friends and relatives.

Nannie Lee "Nan" Burney Randle

2010-01-09T07:18:00.000-06:00

WEST POINT – Nannie Lee “Nan” Burney Randle, 91, died Friday, Jan. 8, 2010, at the North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo. She was born Nov. 17, 1918, in Ackerman to Nannie Lee Weaver Burney and Richard Valentino Burney. She graduated from Ackerman High School and Blue Mountain College. She was a third grade schoolteacher for the West Point Public School System for 28 years. She was a charter member the Clay County Unit of the Retired Education Personnel of Mississippi. She was also active in the American Cancer Society’s “Reach to Recovery Program” for 20 years. She was a member of the First Baptist Church for more than 40 years and an active worker with the young people of the church. She enjoyed crocheting, knitting and growing Day Lillies. She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Lewis Martin Randle of Blue Mountain, on Aug. 15, 2007.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at Calvert Funeral Home Chapel in West Point with the Rev. Dale Funderburg officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Garden Cemetery of West Point.

Survivors include two daughters, Elizabeth Bounds (Bobby) and Lewise Jackson, all of West Point; three grandchildren, Jay Jackson, Walt Bounds and Drew Bounds (Tatum); her great-grandchildren, Branyan, Baylor, Brylee, Brinkleigh, Aspyn and Burkley Bounds.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and her granddaughter, Randee Bounds.

Pallbearers will be Jay Jackson, Walt Bounds, Drew Bounds, Robbie Robinson, Tommy Henley, Bucky Kellogg and Robert Smith.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 794, West Point, MS 39773; or to LeBonheur Children’s Medical Center, 50 Dunlap Street, Memphis, TN 38103.

Visitation will be from 1 from 2 p.m. Sunday at Calvert Funeral Home.

Friends may leave a Memory Message at http://www.calvertfuneralhome.com/.

Jeanette Bright McGill

2010-01-09T07:10:00.001-06:00

Jeanette Bright McGill, aged 73, passed away December 30, 2009. She leaves her husband, Howard of Mexico, a half-sister, Ella Staples of Ackerman and many neices and nephews.

Jeanette was born in the Bywy community of Choctaw County, Mississippi. After graduating from Ackerman High School (MS) in '54, she worked as secretary in Memphis for about two years. She moved to Dallas and became an airline stewardess for American Airlines. She continued to fly for them after she and Howard were married. They have lived in Mexico for many years, first in Puerto Vallarta, then they built a home in the mountains.

Peggy Ann Crimm Henderson

2009-12-06T09:18:00.002-06:00

The funeral for Peggy Ann Crimm Henderson was held Saturday, December 5, 2009, 2 p.m. at New Haven Baptist Church near Weir with burial in the church cemetery. The Rev. Paul Cain will officiate.

Visitation was held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, December 4 at Coleman Funeral Home of Ackerman and was held from 1 p.m. until service time on Saturday at the church. Coleman Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Henderson, 64, died on Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2009 at her home near Weir. A Choctaw County native, she was a homemaker and a member of McCurtains Creek Baptist Church. She was a graduate of Ackerman High School Class of 1962.

Survivors include her husband, Douglas Henderson of Weir; one son, Mark Henderson and his wife, Jennifer, of San Antonio, Texas; one daughter, Lisa Henderson of Pearl; her parents, Cooper E. “Mutt” Crimm and Evelyn Mitchell Crimm, both of Eupora; one brother, Jerry Crimm of Eupora; one sister, Jo Wade of Weir; and four grandchildren.

The family requests that memorial donations be made to New Haven Baptist Church or to the New Haven Baptist Church Cemetery Fund.

John R. Taylor

2009-11-28T06:18:00.000-06:00

John R. Taylor, 61, a Conservation Officer with the Mississippi Department Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, died Wednesday November 25, 2009, at his residence near Ackerman, MS.

Visitation was held Friday November 27, 2009, from 3 PM until 7 PM at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS. Funeral services are 1 PM today at Enon Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Ackerman, MS with burial in the Enon Cemetery in Ackerman, MS. Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS is handling the arrangements.

Mr. Taylor was a Vietnam Veteran, having served in the US Air Force. He managed the wildlife management area in Choctaw County, MS. Mr. Taylor attended Enon Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Ackerman, MS.

Survivors include: wife, Diane Taylor of Ackerman, MS; mother, Inez Taylor of Ackerman, MS; son, Chance Taylor of Ackerman, MS; daughters, Kerri Whittington of Ackerman, MS and Leigh Thomas of Ackerman, MS; brother, Sedgie Taylor of Ackerman, MS; sisters, Barbara Taylor of Brandon, MS and Katherine Wood of Starkville, MS; and two grandchildren, Whitleigh Myers and Chancey Whittington, both of Ackerman, MS.

He was preceded in death by a daughter, Whitney Layne Taylor.

In Lieu of Flowers, the family request memorial donations to Enon Church Youth Fund and/or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

James (Jim) G. Rester Jr.

2009-09-06T15:49:00.000-05:00

Memorial services for James (Jim) G. Rester Jr., 66, will be at 4 p.m. today at Smith Funeral Home chapel, Greenville. He died Sept. 4, 2009, at Delta Regional Medical Center, Greenville. Smith Funeral Home, Greenville, has charge of arrangements.

Mr. Rester was born March 13, 1943, in Bogalusa, La., to the late James and Estelle Rester. He grew up in Ackerman, where he attended school. He had been a resident of Greenville since 1979. He was a former employee of Atkins Saw Co. and was employed with Viking Range in Greenwood when he retired in 2006.

He is survived by his wife, Tina Rester of Wayside; two sons, Hugh (Stephanie) Rester of Greenville, and Jay (Juli) Rester of Starkville; his stepson, Jerome (Denise) Jackson of Indianola; one brother, Thomas Edwin Rester of Ackerman; one sister, Joan Rester Duffy of New Orleans, La.; his former wife, Cheryl Rester of Greenville; and four grandchildren, Rivers Rester, Raines Rester, Jacob Rester and Alex Rester.

Visitation will be today from 3 to 4 p.m. at the funeral home.Graveside rites will be at Enon Cemetery in Ackerman on Monday at 11 am.

Billy F. “Bo Jack” Jackson

2009-06-29T20:52:00.000-05:00

Billy F. “Bo Jack” Jackson died Thursday, June 18, 2009, after a brief illness. He was a resident of the Mississippi State Veterans Home in Oxford. He was a graduate of Ackerman High School, where he was a member of the football team. He was awarded a scholarship and attended East Mississippi Junior College, where he played football. He later attended Mississippi State University. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran of the Korean War. He was a member of Concord Baptist Church. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Services will be at 2 p.m. today at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman. Burial will follow in Enon Cemetery.

Survivors include one son, Bill Jackson (Elsa) of Cypress, Texas; two daughters, Jan Taylor (Mike) of Hawkins, Texas, and Beth Theiss (Marty) of Houston, Texas; five grandchildren, Jeff, Tyler, Ryan, Isabel and Johann; three sisters, Lela Finney of Nettleton, Linda Jackson Weatherly (Danny) of Pontotoc and Betty Sue Jackson Summar (Lee) of Bartlett, Tenn.; two brothers, C.W. Jackson (Judy) of Southaven and Bobby Jackson (Evelyn) of Memphis. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Arlin Jackson.

Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Memorials may be sent to the Town of Ackerman for upkeep of Enon Cemetery; to Sanctuary Hospice House, 5159 W. Main, Tupelo, MS 38801; or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Terry H. Gatlin, Sr.

2009-05-04T19:29:00.001-05:00

Terry H. Gatlin, Sr, age 66, passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2009 at University Hospital in Jackson, MS. He was the oldest son of the late Grace and N.H. Gatlin.

He was a member of the Class of 1960 Ackerman High School. He was a retired mechanic and had served in the United States Army during Operation Desert Storm.

Mr. Gatlin is survived by 2 sons, Terry H. Gatlin, Jr., and Brian Pyron, both of Ackerman; 3 daughters, Denese Barksdale and Tina Lee both of Ackerman, and Stacie Britton of Shelby, N.C; one brother, Billy Gatlin of Braxton, MS and Onie Gatlin Johns of Memphis, TN; 11 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his wife, Barbara Pyron Gatlin.

Visitation will be Tuesday, May 5, 2009 from 5 pm - 8 pm at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS. The funeral service will be on Wednesday, May 6th at 10 am at South Union Methodist Church with interment in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the South Union Cemetery Fund.

Thomas Fulton

2009-04-20T22:29:00.000-05:00

Thomas Fulton, Opera Conductor, 44
1967 Graduate of Ackerman High School (MS)
Published: Wednesday, August 10, 1994
The New York Times

Thomas Fulton, a conductor at the Metropolitan Opera, died on Thursday, August 4, 1994, in Milan, Italy, where he was vacationing. He was 44 and lived in New York City.

The cause was kidney failure, said his brother, Charles.

Mr. Fulton made his Metropolitan Opera debut in 1981 and conducted more than 20 operas for the company, most recently "Tosca" in Central Park in June. He worked frequently in Europe, conducting the Orchestre National de France and the orchestras of the Paris Opera and other houses in France and Germany.

He was also an associate conductor of the San Francisco Opera, the Glyndebourne Festival Opera, the Ravinia Festival, the Opera Company of Boston and EMI Records.

In addition to his brother, of Gainesville, Fla., he is survived by his father, Joseph, of Fairfield Bay, Ark.

Thomas Fulton Memorial
Published: Wednesday, October 19, 1994
The New York Times

A memorial service for the conductor Thomas Fulton is to be held tomorrow at 5 P.M. at the 92d Street Y on Lexington Avenue. Carol Vaness, Sharon Sweet, Maria Guleghina, Vinson Cole and Sherrill Milnes are to sing, accompanied by John Keenan and Patrick Stevens, and a string quartet from the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra is to play. The service is open to the public; seating is to begin at 4:30. Mr. Fulton, who was 44, died on Aug. 4.

Nancy McBrayer

2009-04-16T06:49:00.002-05:00

Mrs. Nancy Haze Kirkpatrick McBrayer, 78, died Tuesday, April 14, 2009, at Mississippi Baptist Hospital, Jackson.

She was a retired educator, having taught in the Mississippi public schools 38 years.

Born October 20, 1930, she was a native of Noxapater and was of the Baptist faith. During her school days at Noxapater, she and her sister played on the basketball team. She graduated from East Central Junior College and Mississippi Southern, with a degree in elementary education, then taught in Natchez, Noxapater and, for many years, in Ackerman.

She was an avid Mississippi State Bulldog fan and loved traveling to games wearing her maroon and white. In her later years, she never missed a State game on TV. She was known for her beautiful yard, especially the caladiums of every color and variety. Friends and family enjoyed her excellent cooking. With a warm smile and a gentle voice, she was a generous and thoughtful giver.

Her parents, Ira and Algy Kirkpatrick, and two brothers, Joe Davis and Jimmy Kirkpatrick, preceded her in death.

Survivors include her husband of 51 years, Myron; daughter, Myra Ann Lewis and grandson, Adam of Ridgeland; brother, Ira Lee Kirkpatrick, Jr. and his wife, Lucille, of Noxapater; sister, Ann Fulton of Brandon; sister-in-law, Edna Kirkpatrick of New Orleans; niece, Lillian (Joe) Mirando of Ponchatoula, LA; nephews, Ira (Sharon) Kirkpatrick of McDonough, GA, and Jim Fulton of Brandon; great-nieces, Lucy Mirando and Lisa (Jantsen) Haney; great-nephew, Aaron Kirkpatrick; and many more relatives and friends.

Visitation is at Porter Funeral Home, Louisville, today at 5-8 pm. The funeral will be 2 pm Friday, April 17, 2009, at Porter Funeral Home, followed by burial in Mount Carmel Cemetery, in Noxapater, MS.

The family expresses our appreciation to Dr. Bart DeLashmet and Dr. Grace Shumaker for the health care they provided throughout her years.

Memorials may be made to Noxapater Baptist Church, P. O. Box 251, Noxapater, MS, 39339. To sign the guestbook, please go to www.porterfuneralhome.net.

Karah Jones Turnage

2009-02-22T21:29:00.003-06:00

Karah Jones Turnage, 61, passed away on Friday, Feb. 20, 2009 at the Choctaw County Nursing Center in Ackerman.

Mrs. Turnage was preceded in death by her husband Emmitt Turnage; parents, James Howard Jones and Willie Steadman Jones; and brother, Galon Jones.

She is survived by sons, Todd Turnage of Starkville and Toby Turnage of Columbus; sister, Carolyn Adams of Manassas, Va.; brothers, Thomas Jones and Lavon Jones of Ackerman; and grandchildren Clay, Hunter, Mackenzie, and Aiden Turnage.

Mrs. Turnage was a former employee of the Starkville Daily News and was a member of New Life Worship Center.

Visitation will be Monday from 5 till 8 p.m. at Welch Funeral Home, which is handling the arrangements.

The funeral will be held Tuesday at 2 p.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. Donnie Davis officiating. Burial will follow at Enon Baptist Church cemetery. The family asks that memorial donations be made to the Diabetes Foundation of Mississippi Inc.

William Griffin

2009-02-19T22:56:00.001-06:00

William Griffin
Raymond (The Clarion Ledger 2/19/09)

William "Bill" Griffin, 85, passed on to be with his savior on Tuesday February 17, 2009. Mr. Griffin died in his home at Riggs Manor, Raymond, Mississippi from heart failure.

A memorial service will be held at noon Friday at Raymond United Methodist Church with burial in the Raymond Cemetery. Visitation is 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 Friday at Raymond United Methodist Church.

Mr. Griffin was born and raised in Tunica County. He graduated from Delta State with graduate education from The University of Mississippi, Mississippi Southern, Mississippi State, University of Florida, Emory University and Colorado Mountain College. Mr. Griffin taught school for 41 years including 22 years at Hinds Junior College retiring in 1984 as Chairman of the Physical Science Department. He also was Principal of the High School in Ackerman; Past President of Choctaw County Teacher's Association; Past Chairman of 2-year College Chemistry Conference; and Past President of Hinds Junior College Credit Union. In his life he was: an Eagle Scout; a high school basketball coach; high school football assistant coach; an avid genealogist; and a teacher whose true joy was inspiring students to learn and to seeing his many students succeed in life. He was a member of Raymond United Methodist Church, serving as a Steward.

He will be remembered by his family as a cherished husband; loving father; devoted grandfather and great-grandfather; and devout Christian. He will be missed not only by his family, but also his many friends at Riggs Manor.

Mr. Griffin was preceded in death by wives Lena Rose Bassi Griffin and Carolyn Dunlap Griffin and his parents Willie and Norma Griffin, Tunica County. Survivors include: sons, Gary (Gaynor) Griffin of Gadsden, AL; Jim (Charlene) Griffin of Raymond; and stepson Tom (Diana) Dunlap, III of Arkansas; and seven grandchildren (Grant {Kate}, Amanda, Greg, Crystal {James}, Thomas, Nicholas and Daniel); and five great-grandchildren, including special great-grandson Austin of Raymond.

Memorials may be made to Raymond United Methodist Church.

Mildred Irene Cagle Clendenon

2009-01-25T17:49:00.001-06:00

Mildred Irene Cagle Clendenon
AHS Class of 1962

The funeral for Mildred Irene Cagle Clendenon will be held Thursday, January 22, 2009, at 11 a.m. at Bethlehem Baptist Church near Ackerman with burial in the church cemetery. The Rev. Jerry Lawson will officiate. Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until service time Thursday at the church.

Mrs. Clendenon, 65, died Sunday at Methodist University Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. She was a retired dental assistant. She was a member of the class of 1962 at Ackerman High School.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Calvin Cagle and Junior Cagle. Survived by husband, Arsie Clendenon of Coffeeville, two sons, Mark Kilpatrick & Mike Kilpatrick of Jackson; daughter, Kim Trahan of Bay St. Louis, three sisters, June Bruce of Ben, OR, Irene Fulce of West Point, MS; Clara Mae Robinson of Ackerman; two brothers, Glenn Cagle of McCool and Marvin Cagle of Hood River, OR; 7 grandchild and 8 grandchildren.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or to a charity of choice. Coleman Funeral Home of Ackerman is in charge of the arrangements.

Dick Kitchens

2009-01-08T06:11:00.000-06:00

Dick Kitchens
AHS Graduate

WEST POINT – Raymond Lee “Dick” Kitchens, 78, died Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2008, at Dugan Memorial Home, in West Point. He was born Aug. 19, 1930, in Newton to Emma Jones and Walter Kitchens. He was a retired supervisor for Bryan Foods with 37 years of service. A member of West End Baptist Church, he was a U.S. Air Force veteran of the Korean War. He married Dorothy Lee Robertson Kitchens on Jan. 13, 1956, in Winston County.

Services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Calvert Funeral Home Chapel. His nephew, Dr. David Hamilton, will officiate, and Bro. Mike Mathena and Bro. Curtis Bray will assist. Burial will follow in Memorial Garden Cemetery in West Point.

Survivors include wife, Dorothy Kitchens of West Point; two sons, Paul Kitchens (Robin) of West Point and Perry Kitchens (Emily) of Rome, Ga.; three grandchildren, Abby Lewis (Barry) of West Point, and Savannah Kitchens and Zachery Kitchens, both of Rome, Ga.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Paul Kitchens; and two sisters, Zellene Flynn and Annie Mae Hamilton.

Pallbearers will be Pirl Johnson, Gary Cunningham, Zack Kitchens, Ted Triplett, Rod Cook and Derek Eaves.
Honorary pallbearers will be Dr. T.N. Braddock and Dr. John Cox; all his former co-workers at Bryan Foods; members of Barton Ferry Hunting Club; the staff of Gilbert Hospice-Tupelo; and all his wonderful friends.

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the donor's choice.

Nita Kay Dewberry

2008-12-16T22:10:00.000-06:00

Nita Kay Dewberry
AHS Class of 1962

Mrs. Nita Kay Hodges Dewberry, age 64, of Marietta, GA passed away Thursday, December 11, 2008.

She was a homemaker and a loving wife and mother. Mrs. Dewberry is survived by her husband of 34 years, Larry Dewberry; daughters, Desiree Wehner (Allen) of Pavo, GA and Shea Gilbert (Eric) of Cumming, GA; sons, Darryl Dewberry (Connie) of Charlotte, NC and Brandon Dewberry (Caroline) of Huntsville, AL; 14 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren, and a brother-in-law, Dale Dewberry (Ginger).

A funeral service will be held Saturday, December 13th at Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church in Marietta at 2 o'clock with Rev. Jim Bocian and Rev. Rob Bruce officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the M.U.S.T. Ministries, P.O. Box 1717, Marietta, GA 30061.

Arrangements by: H.M. Patterson & Son, Canton Hill Chapel, 1157 Old Canton Rd, NE, Marietta, GA 30068. 770-977-9485.

Shea Dewberry Gilbert was Kay and Larry's only child. The other children listed were Larry's children by his first marriage.

Dorothy Faye Tharp

2008-11-09T21:56:00.000-06:00

Dorothy Faye Tharp, 59, died Thursday, Nov. 6, 2008, at Baptist Memorial Hospital Golden Triangle. She was born Dec. 22, 1948, in Ackerman. She was disabled and a member of Salvation Army Church in Columbus.

Services will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday at Oliver Funeral Home Chapel in Eupora with Capt. Bert Lind officiating. Burial will follow in Montevista Cemetery in Webster County.

Survivors include a sister, Jo Anne Dunham of Columbus; and three brothers, Marion Allen (Joanne) Tharp of Plymouth, Neb., Jerome (Polly) Tharp of Houlka and Ben F. (Linda) Tharp of Ackerman.

She was preceded in death by her parents, A.B. and Ora Golden Tharp.

Garner R. Maddox

2008-11-09T06:21:00.002-06:00

Garner R. Maddox, 67, died Wednesday, October 29, 2008, at his home. Mr. Maddox was the son of the late Selma Bowie and Nolan Maddox, Sr.

He was a retired farmer and factory worker. He was a member of the Class of 1960 of Ackerman High School.

Garner is survived by one brother, Nolan Maddox, Jr. (Marjorie) of Indianola, MS.

There will be a graveside service on Thursday, November 6th at 10 am at Enon Cemetery in Ackerman with Coleman Funeral Home in charge of arrangements, 662-285-6628.

The address for Nolan Maddox according to www.whitepages.com is: 101 Park Ave, Indianola, MS 38751-2535 Phone (662) 887-6367.

James Kenneth Phillips

2008-10-19T14:56:00.001-05:00

James Kenneth Phillips, age 74 and a resident of Gulfport, Mississippi died Monday, October 13, 2008, in Gulfport.

Mr. Phillips retired after 43 years with the Kansas City Southern Railroad, and was an active member of Bayou View Baptist Church.

Kenneth grew up in Fentress, MS near Ackerman. He graduated from Ackerman High School in 1953. He and his wife, Martha Jo Cutts Phillips had celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this year. They were natives of Choctaw County, MS and lived several years in Louisville, MS prior to moving to Gulfport.

He is survived by his wife, Martha Jo Cutts Phillips of Gulfport; and an extended family, one son, three grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Mr. Phillips chose to gift his body to medical research at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

The family prefers memorials to French Camp Academy, One Fine Place, French Camp, MS 39745, or Fentress Baptist Church, 13569 Fentress Panhandle Road, Weir, MS 39722.

RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, helped the family with arrangements. A guestbook may be signed at www.riemannfamily.com.

Martha's mailing address is: 16138 Sylvan Dr., Gulfport, MS 39503, phone 228-832-7571.

Herman A. Morris

2008-10-06T06:57:00.000-05:00

Herman A. Morris
AHS 1970
Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal - 10/6/2008

EUPORA - Herman A. "Ha" Morris, 56, died Oct. 4, 2008, at his residence. He was born Feb. 9, 1952, in Kennett, Mo. He was a retired farmer and truck driver and was a member of Chester Baptist Church in Chester. He was a Mason and Fire Chief of Bywy Volunteer Fire Department.

Services will be at 2 p.m. today at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church with Rev. Curtis Guess officiating. Burial will be at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery in Choctaw County. Oliver Funeral Home of Eupora is in charge of arrangements.

Survivors include his wife, Judy Morris; his mother, Faye Swindle; one daughter, Kim Holmes; two sons, Andy McCool and Shawn Morris, all of Eupora; one sister, Billie Morris of Saxton, Mo.; two brothers, Wade Swindle of Eupora and Don Swindle of Mathison; and seven grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father, Herman D. Morris; his step-father, Rex Swindle; and one brother, Ricky Morris.

Visitation was from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home on Sunday.

Carolyn Austin Fiore

2008-08-13T06:01:00.001-05:00

Carolyn Austin Fiore, age 63, went to be with the Lord on August 8, 2008 after fighting a courageous 14-year battle with ovarian cancer. She was a longtime resident of Birmingham, formerly from Ackerman, Mississippi. She graduated from Ackerman High School in 1964 and attended Mississippi State University. She was a member of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Tom Travis Austin and Hazel Burton Austin; a brother, W.C. Austin; and her sisters, Trudy Zilinskas, Geneva Harris and Nell Atkinson.
Mrs. Fiore is survived by her loving husband, Jerome (Jerry) Anthony Fiore, Sr.; step-children, Jerome Anthony (Tony) (Tammy), Donna Fiore and Angela Fiore Woods (Ian); brother, O'Keefe (Keith) Austin (Pearl); sister, Topsey Austin King; nieces, Sandra Cleary (Ben), and Sheila Cash (Herb); nephews, Bobby Atkinson (Janice), Garrett Erwin (Janice), and Jason Zilinskas (Allison); grandsons, Mathew Woods, Zachary Woods and Jerome Anthony Fiore III; and granddaughters, Emma Fiore, Ruth Fiore and Sara Fiore.

Mrs. Fiore was a very positive person with outstanding love for everyone. She never met a stranger and will be greatly missed by all whose lives she touched. After moving to Birmingham in 1967, she began her banking career with Birmingham Trust National Bank (now Wachovia Bank). In 1984, she went to work for First Alabama Bank (now Regions Bank) where she worked as executive assistant to the chairman and CEO. Her banking career ended in 2001 after a 30-year career.

She was active in many community organizations and enjoyed volunteering on the Oncology Floor at St. Vincent's Hospital and at St. Peter's Church. She served as a member on the United Way Visiting Allocation Team and the Alabama Oncology Foundation. She was Vice President/President elect of the Birmingham Chapter of the Executive Women's International upon her retirement. She was also President of the CanSurvive GYN Cancer Support Group.

Mrs. Fiore also received the American Cancer Society's Life Inspiration Award for her extraordinary contributions of hope, courage and strength to others.

The family would like to send a special thank you to Sister Veronica Ryan of St. Peter's Church for her friendship and unconditional love throughout Mrs. Fiore's illness. She was a true friend. The family would also like to thank J. Max Austin, Jr., M.D. and his staff and also Bethany Smeraglia with New Beacon Hospice.

Visitation services will be held at St. Peter's Catholic Church on Monday, August 11, 2008 from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. Christian burial mass will be at St. Peter's the Apostle Catholic Church on Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. with burial at Elmwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society or St. Peter's Catholic Church, 2061 Patton Chapel Road, Birmingham, AL 35216.
The family appreciates all the prayers and support shown during Mrs. Fiore's sickness. She suffers no more ... she is in the presence of the Lord. Ridout's Elmwood Chapel, 205-251-7227, is directing. Published in The Birmingham News on 8/11/2008

Jimmie Lawrence Long

2008-06-18T21:37:00.002-05:00

Jimmie Lawrence Long, 86, a retired Sheriff & Supervisor for Choctaw County, MS, died Wednesday, June 11, 2008, at his residence in Ackerman, MS. Visitation was Thursday, June 12, 2008, 6 til 8p.m. at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS. Funeral services are 11:00a.m. today at Ackerman Baptist Church in Ackerman, MS with burial in the Enon Cemetery in Ackerman, MS.Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS is handling the arrangements.

Mr. Long was a WWII veteran serving in the U.S. Airforce. Mr. Long was a member of the Ackerman Masonic Lodge #119. He served as Sheriff for Choctaw County, MS from 1956-1960. He served as county supervisor for two terms.
Mr. Long was a member of Ackerman Baptist Church where he was in the Patarich Sunday School Class.

Survivors include: wife, Nanilou McCarty Long, Ackerman, MS; two sons, David Long & Pete Long both of Ackerman, MS; two daughters, Cheryl Stacy and Betty Johnson both of Ackerman, MS; one brother, Bill Long of Hernando, MS; four sisters, Maurice Keen of Leland, MS, Sis McClure of Ackerman, MS, Lavelle Moss of Henderson, TX, and Margie Murphy of New Albany, MS; six grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be Jimbo Johnson, Mark Norman, Jeff Hagan, Jeff Paulk, Andy Stephenson, Hugh Stephenson, Bo Newman, and Jan Ganann. Honorary pallbearers will be nephews and members of the Patarich Sunday School Class.
Memorials may be sent to Ackerman Baptist Church or Springhill Baptist Church.

Published in the Clarion Ledger on 6/13/2008.

Audrey Jane Perry

2008-06-01T21:36:00.000-05:00

OXFORD – Audrey Jane Perry, 94, died Wednesday, May 28, 2008, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi in Oxford. She graduated from Ackerman High School and went on to recieve her R.N. degree in nursing from University of Tennessee School of Medicine. She served in World War II in the Army Nurse Corps as a 1st lieutenant, serving from 1943-1946. She then recieved her B.S. in nursing at Vanderbilt University in 1950 and went to work at TVA as supervisor of nursing. She was a retired registered nurse in Chattanooga. After retirement, she was active in local cultural organizations in Chattanooga. She was also active in organized activities at her church, Brainerd Presbyterian, working with church office staff for seven years in charitable activities. Later, she became a member of First Presbyterian Church in Oxford, where she was active in womens groups and served as voluntary church historian. She enjoyed attending church and Sunday School.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Monday at the First Presbyterian Church with Dr. Mark Catledge Jackson and the Rev. John Semmes officiating. Burial will follow in Oxford Memorial Cemtery. Waller Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Survivors include a brother, Hervey B. Perry of Dallas, Texas; numerous nieces and nephews, and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

Visitation will be held prior to the service from 12:30 until 2:00 at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 924 Van Buren Avenue, Oxford, MS 38655.

LeRoy Banks Weaver

2008-05-15T21:03:00.000-05:00

ACKERMAN - LeRoy Banks Weaver, 99, a retired insurance agent, died Tuesday, May 13, 2008, at Choctaw County Medical Center in Ackerman, MS. Visitation is today from 5p.m. - 8p.m. at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS. Funeral services are 11a.m., Thursday, May 15, 2008, at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS with burial in the Enon Cemetery in Ackerman, MS. Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS is handling the arrangements. Banks was a 1928 graduate of Ackerman High School.

Mr. Weaver was born in Ackerman, MS on August 6, 1908. He was an independent insurance agent for over 68 years until the sale of his family business in 1997. He also operated the first funeral home and ambulance service in Choctaw County until 1954. He was the only surviving Charter Member of the Ackerman Rotary Club founded in 1945. He served as club president and was a Paul Harris Fellow. He was a member of the Ackerman Methodist Church where he had served as Sunday School Teacher for the Men's Bible Class and High School Class and chairman of the Administrative Board, Finance Committee, and Board of Trustees. He was a trustee for Ackerman High School serving as president in 1960. He was currently an Associate Director of Regions Bank.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jane S. Weaver and one son, Hugh Banks Weaver, both of Ackerman, MS. Mr. Weaver was preceded in death by his parents, LeRoy Jefferson Weaver and Mary Banks Weaver, and a brother Joe Garland Weaver. Memorials may be made to Ackerman Methodist Church, Palmer Home for Children, or French Camp Academy.

Rex Charles Bowie

2008-01-16T21:09:00.000-06:00

Rex Charles Bowie, 79, a retired pipe insulator, died Wednesday January 9, 2008 at his residence in Ackerman, MS. Visitation is Friday (1/11/2008), 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS. Funeral services are 11 a.m. Saturday (1/12/2008) at Ackerman United Methodist Church in Ackerman, MS with burial in the Enon Cemetery in Ackerman. Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS is handling the arrangements.

Mr. Bowie was a veteran of the Korean conflict and a Purple Heart recipient. He was a member of the Shriners, the Southern Colorado Consistory, the Ackerman Masonic Lodge, and the American Legion. He was a member of South Union Methodist Church and attended Ackerman United Methodist Church.

Survivors include: wife-Ruby M. Bowie of Ackerman, son, Hamp McKnight of Ackerman; daughter-Christina Bowie of Colorado; brothers, Ralph Bowie and Jack Bowie-both of Ackerman; sister, Joan Graves of Memphis, TN and one grandchild, Mitchell McKnight of Ackerman. Preceded in death by parents, Alien and Cora Bowie, brother Kay Bowie, and sister Lyndell Chambers.

Pallbearers for the service will be Clark Presley, Brent Bowie, Jody Graves, Eric Chambers, Robby Chambers, Doug Wise, Michael Donnell, Shane Burton, and Dale Currie. Honorary Pallbearers for the service include the Men's Bible Class of Ackerman United Methodist Church taught by Joe Griffin, Frank Black, Boyce Bruce, and Jimmy Ralph McClure.

Memorials may be sent to Ackerman United Methodist Church. Published in the Clarion Ledger on 1/11/2008.

Martha J. McMinn Brevard

2008-01-16T21:07:00.000-06:00

Waynesboro, PA - Martha J. McMinn Brevard, 72, of 12125 Country Club Road, died Monday, Jan. 7, 2008, at Community Hospice of Washington, D.C.

Born March 8, 1935, in Mississippi, she was the daughter of the late James T. and Letha C. Carr McMinn.

She was a 1953 graduate of Ackerman (Miss.) High School. She graduated from the Mississippi University for Women, Columbus, Miss., in 1957, with a bachelor's degree in music education.

She was a homemaker and following her husband's retirement, they worked in real estate together.

She was a member of Blue Ridge Summit (Pa.) Garden Club and Waynesboro Country Club.

She is survived by her husband of more than 48 years, William N. "Nick" Brevard.
Services will be Thursday at 2 p.m. at Grove-Bowersox Funeral Home, Waynesboro. The Rev. John Ile will officiate. Burial will be later in Ackerman Cemetery, Ackerman.
The family will receive friends Thursday one hour prior to the services at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Quincy United Methodist Home Benevolent Care Fund, P.O. Box 128, Quincy, PA, 17247.

There will be a visitation at FUMC in Ackerman on Monday, January 14, 2008 from 1-2pm with the funeral service at 2 pm. Interment will be in Enon Cemetery.

Hanson L. Harbour

2007-07-17T06:50:00.001-05:00

Hanson passed away on Saturday, June 9, 2007. He is survived by his wife Lexie Chilsom Harbour. Hanson was last known to be living in Brandon, Mississippi. He was a U.S. Navy veteran and former Science teacher at Ackerman High School.

Contributions in his memory can be made to Zion Baptist Church.

Special thanks to Mr. Bill Griffin, former teacher and coach at Ackerman High School, who submitted this obituary. Mr. Griffin adds that “both were very nice people.”

James Timothy Chesnut

2007-07-17T06:49:00.000-05:00

James Timothy Chesnut, son of Joe and Ruth Chesnut. Born November 29, 1961 and died March 28, 2004 after a valiant battle with cancer. He left his wife, Wendy and four
children: Zachary, J.J., Tori and Noah, his mother, Ruth (Staten) Nowlin, his father, Joe Chesnut, 2 sisters, Marie Chesnut Dendy, Vicky Chesnut Groceman, 2 brothers, Eddie Chesnut and Donnie Nowlin, his step-father Joel Nowlin, 1 step-sister, Linda Nowlin Mulkey, 2 step-brothers, Robert Nowlin and Martin Nowlin and a host of family and friends.

Timmy was a 1979 graduate of Ackerman High School. He served 21 years in the US Navy, most of the time on the USS Ranger before retiring. After retiring he launched the Navy Jr. ROTC program at Neshoba Central High along with Commander Rowell. Timmy was loved by all who knew him. He was buried in the Macedonia Cemetery in Choctaw County.

Edgar A. 'Eddy' Griffin (1958 Graduate of AHS)

2007-07-10T07:04:00.001-05:00

MATHISTON — Funeral services for Edgar A. "Eddy" Griffin will be Sunday, July 8, 2007 at 2 p.m. at Blythe Creek Baptist Church near Mathiston. Burial will be at Blythe Creek Cemetery.

Rev. Danny Irvin and Rev. Mike Adcock will officiate. Visitation will be Saturday, July 7, 2007 from 5-8 p.m. at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman.

Mr. Griffin, 66, died Tuesday, July 3, 2007 at his residence in Mathiston. He served in the U.S. Armed Forces and was a member of Blythe Creek Baptist Church. Memorials can be sent to Blythe Creek Baptist Church.

Kyle Black (2001 Graduate of AHS)

2007-07-10T07:03:00.001-05:00

Kyle Black, 24, a Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer at Jordan Funeral Home, died Saturday February 10, 2007 at Kosciusko, MS. Visitation is today 5-8 p.m. & Thursday 12-2 p.m. at Chester Baptist Church in Chester, MS. Funeral services are 2 p.m. Thursday at the church with burial in the Mt. Nebo Cemetery on Nebo Road in Choctaw County. Jordan Funeral Home in Kosciusko, MS is handling the arrangements.

Kyle was a member of the Chester Baptist Church, The Kosciusko Volunteer Fire Department, and a Master Mason of Trinity Lodge #88.

Survivors include: His Mother, Shelley Stewart and her Husband, Tim; His Father, Greg Black and his Wife, Jackie; Sisters, Jessica and Shannon Black and Grandparents, Thomas and Lorraine Black all of Ackerman, MS.

Memorials may be sent to Mt. Nebo Cemetery Fund C/O Hayward Perry, 189 Wagon Dr. Weir, MS. 39772.

Tony B. Busby

2007-07-10T07:02:00.003-05:00

Tony B. Busby, 60, of Ackerman died Friday July 21, 2006 at Choctaw County Hospital in Ackerman. Services are 2 p.m. today at the Ackerman Baptist Church with burial in Salem Independent Methodist Church Cemetery near Ackerman. Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman is handling arrangements.

Tony was born March 30,1946 in Houston. He was a graduate of Ackerman High School and attended Holmes Jr. College and Mississippi State University. He was a business owner and operator and was a member of Ackerman Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Janet Miles Busby of Ackerman; mother, Georgia Tennyson Busby of Ackerman; son, Dewayne Busby and wife Rene of Starkville; 2 grandchildren, Macey Rae Busby and Bryce Thomas Busby both of Starkville; his father, Thomas J. Busby of Ackerman preceded him in death.

Memorials may be made to Ackerman Baptist Church P.O. BOX 277 Ackerman, MS 39735.

Prentiss Brooks Irving

2007-07-10T07:02:00.001-05:00

Prentiss Brooks Irving, 81, died Tuesday, April 18, 2006 at his home in Ackerman. Visitation is 5-8 p.m. today at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman. Services are 11 a.m. Saturday at the Ackerman Presbyterian Church with burial in Enon Cemetery in Ackerman. Mr. Irving was a graduate of Ackerman High School, Holmes Community College, and Mississippi State University. He began his career as a teacher and a football coach. Prentiss coached at McAdams, Sturgis, Shelby, and Magee, Mississippi before retuning to his hometown to coach at Ackerman High School. After he finished coaching Mr. Irving worked at the local United States Post Office until retirement. He was a member of the Ackerman Presbyterian Church where he served as an Elder. He served on the Choctaw County Board of Education and held a membership in the Rotary Club, Lions Club, V.F.W, and American Legion. He served in the United States Navy during World War II with two years of active duty in the South Pacific.

Prentiss is survived by: his wife of 54 years, Jimmy Payne Irving of Ackerman; three daughters, Jan Bruening and husband Gayle of Madison, Cissy Voight and husband Mike of Nashville, TN, and Pam Marriam and husband Robert of Oxford; five grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Prentiss was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. And Mrs. Frank Irving, and his sister Margie Irving Al-Refai.

Memorials may be made in memory of Mr. Irving to French Camp Academy in French Camp, MS or Palmer Home for Children in Columbus, MS.

Billy Daniel Bowman

2007-07-10T07:01:00.001-05:00

Billy Daniel Bowman, 67, died Thursday, January 12, 2006 at Mississippi Baptist Medical Center in Jackson. Visitation is 1:30 until service time at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Grenada. Services are 2 p.m. today at the church with burial in Evergreen Cemetery in North Carrollton. Lee Funeral Home of Winona is handling arrangements. Dr. Clarence Cooper assisted by Rev. David Bryant will officiate.

He was born to the late Thomas Daniel and Helen Louise Bowman. He was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Grenada where he served on the Bus Ministry Committee. He was a graduate of Ackerman High School, and attended Holmes Junior College, where he is a member of the Hall of Fame. He is a graduate of Delta State College, where he was an All-American Halfback in football. He was an avid hunter and fisherman.

He is survived by: his wife, Joyce Herbert Bowman of Grenada; sons, Billy Daniel Bowman, II, and wife Amy of Winona, and Rainey Bowman and wife Dene of Louisville, KY; sister, Jeanette Whitehead of Jackson; brothers, Jack Bowman of Ackerman, Don Bowman of Starkville, Glen Bowman of Jackson and George Bowman of Weir; four grandchildren, Michael, Cullen, Ben Addison, and Eryn Claire Bowman.

Pallbearers are: Tommy Bowman, Don Bowman, Jr., Rodney Bowman, Rusty Bowman, Paul Bowman, Jamie Whitehead, Dave Herbert, Matthew Whitfield, Shane Whitefield, and Lee Herbert.

Memorials can be made to Emmanuel Baptist Church Bus Ministry Fund, P.O. Box 908, Grenada, MS 38902.

Valarie S. Wood

2007-07-10T07:00:00.002-05:00

Ms Valarie S. Wood, a staff accountant at PharmaPac in Dekalb, MS, died Friday, October, 28, 2005 at Regency Hospital in Meridian, MS of complications from cystic fibrosis after a hospitalization of nearly twelve weeks.

Valarie, 29, was born June 6, 1976, in Biloxi, MS, moved to Ackerman when she was 3, and moved to Meridian four years ago. She previously worked at Peavey in Meridian, BancorpSouth in Louisville, and while in college an immediately afterwards, at Stage and Factory Connections in Starkville. She was a 1994 honor graduate of Ackerman High School, a member of the AHS Marching Band, and among her and awards and honors, she was elected to the AHS Hall of Fame. Valarie graduated from Mississippi State University with a degree in Banking and Finance.

Valaries hobbies included traveling, music and watching movies. Valarie was a Christian and a member of Concord Baptist Church in Ackerman.

Services were held Monday October 31, 2005 at Coleman Funeral Home Chapel and burial in Concord Baptist Church Cemetery.

Valarie is survived by her parents, Billy and Peggy Wood of Ackerman, her sister and brother-in-law, Mary Ann and Jason Wooten of Gulf Shores, AL; her niece, Madeline Olivia Wooten of Gulf Shores, AL, her fiancé, Paul Clark, her grandmother, Latriece Simmons Wade of Soso, MS, several very loving uncles, aunts and cousins and a host of relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, W.F. Wade, Jr. of Soso, her paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Walker Wood of Ackerman and her cousin, Brandon Ellis Wade of Soso.

Coleman Funeral Home of Ackerman was in charge of arrangements.

Anthony D. Lucas

2007-07-10T07:00:00.001-05:00

Funeral Services for Mr. Anthony D. Lucas, 32, of Ackerman, MS were held Monday February 7, 2005 at 2:00 PM at Ackerman Baptist Church with Rev. Danny Irvin and Rev. Jerry Lawson officiating and burial in Providence Baptist Cemetery near Ackerman. Visitation was held Sunday February 6, 2005 at Coleman Funeral Home. He was born in Choctaw County April 10, 1972.

Mr. Lucas died Friday, February 4, 2005 in the line of duty while serving as the Chief of Police for French Camp on Whites Road near Weir, MS.

Mr. Lucas was an Mississippi Department oof Corrections Law Enforcement Officer for the State of Mississippi and Police Chief for the French Camp. He was on duty as Chief of Police for the Town of French Camp at the time of his death. He was a member of the Blythe Creek Baptist Church.

Survivors include wife Penny Jenkins Lucas of Ackerman; son, Kyle Lucas of Ackerman, MS; parents, Wendell and Brenda Lucas of Ackerman, MS; sister, Amy Oakes and husband Timmy and their children Haley, Trenton, and Tristian all of Ackerman; maternal grandmother, Maxine Jones of Ackerman, paternal grandmother, Irene Lucas of Ackerman.

Coleman Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

David Alan Sinn

2007-07-10T06:59:00.002-05:00

David Alan Sinn, 60, passed away Tuesday, August 3, 2004, at Central Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson after a courageous battle against cancer. Visitation is 5-8 p.m. today at Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home in Jackson. Services are 11 a.m. Thursday at Lakeshore Congregational Methodist Church with burial in South Union Methodist Church Cemetery in Ackerman.

David retired in 2003 after 23 years with Trustmark National Bank having served as 1st Vice President. He was born in Meridian, but was a long-time resident of Jackson where he was a member of Lakeshore Congregational Methodist Church. He was preceded in death by his father, Roy McCarty.

David is survived by his wife of 23 years, Ann Russellan (Herbert) Sinn; daughters, Tamsyn (Furne) Gramling and son-in-law, Rob of Nashville, Tenn., DeAnn Sinn of Georgia, Stacye Sinn of Jackson, Kim Poe of Alabama; mother, Wilna McCarty of Ackerman; mother-in-law, Nina Herbert; sister, Susan Elderton and husband Bill of Florida; brother, Randy McCarty of Alabama; several nieces and nephews.

Juanita F. "Nita" Busby

2007-07-10T06:59:00.001-05:00

Services for Mrs. Juanita F. "Nita" Busby, 68 of Ackerman, were held on Tuesday, July 27, 2004 at 1:00 p.m. at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman. Rev. Danny Bryant and Rev. Lane Stephenson officiated the service with internment in the Antioch Methodist Cemetery. Coleman Funeral Home of Ackerman was in charge of the arrangements. Visitation was held on Monday, July 26, 2004 at the Coleman Funeral Home from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m.

Mrs. Busby died July 25, 2004 at Trace Regional Hospital in Houston of pneumonia. She was born August 18, 1935 in Charleston. She was a Cosmetologist /Barber and was a member of Enon Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Ackerman.

Survivors include two daughters, Pam King of Ackerman and Marsha Ellington of Choctaw, OK; two brothers, Irby Ford of Hernando and Kenneth Ford of Ackerman; two sisters, Katherine Wood of Ackerman and Lois Rayford Olive Branch and five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Silas 'S. M.' Dobbs Jr.

2007-07-10T06:58:00.001-05:00

Silas "S. M." Dobbs, Jr., 82, retired businessman, died Tuesday, May 25, 2004, at Aurora Australis Lodge in Columbus. Visitation is 12 noon until the 2 p.m. funeral service today at Gunter & Peel Funeral Home in Columbus with burial in Enon Cemetery in Ackerman.

Bertrand 'BK' Melton

2007-07-10T06:55:00.000-05:00

Bertrand "BK" Melton, 86, died Saturday, February 21, 2004, at Central Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. Services are 11 a.m. Monday at Lakewood Funeral Home with visitation from 3-6 p.m. and after 10 a.m. Monday.

Mr. Melton was born in Choctaw County Mississippi on November 4, 1917. He graduated from Ackerman High School and Milsaps College.

He joined the army and served as a Master Sargent with the Airborne Engineers in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He was a hydraulics engineer with the Waterways Experiment Station/US Corp of Engineers where he retired with over 35 years of service.

Mr. Melton was a charter member of Morrison Heights Baptist Church in Clinton. He later helped form Cornerstone Church in Pearl. He was an active member of Cornerstone and for many years he coordinated food collection for the Fathers Close, a ministry of the church.

Mr. Melton is preceded by his wife of 61 years, Frances Melton. He is survived by two daughters, Donna James and her husband Allen of Clinton and Carolyn Hutcherson of Washington, D.C.; one brother, Thomas Melton of Heber Springs, Ark.; one sister, Gladys Edwards of Jackson; three grandchildren, Jack Strohm of Clinton, Kim Hutcherson of Atlanta, Ga., and Krisin Hutcherson of Washington, D.C.; one great-granddaughter Elaena Hutcherson of Washington, D.C.

William Douglas Burney

2007-07-09T22:07:00.000-05:00

William Douglas Burney passed away on November 13, 2003, in Oak Harbor, Washington. Doug was 54 years old. He was a member of the Union Labors Local 252, a graduate of Mississippi State University, and a Veteran of the United States Coast Guard.

He was preceded in death by his parents Edsel and Jolene Ray Burney, Grandparents, Sam E. and Vera Ray and W. L. and Mayme Burney, all of Ackerman.

He is survived by: his wife, Carol Johnson Burney, of Oak Harbor, Washington; daughters Ashley Cecelia Marcel, Steffen Jolene Burney, both of Olympia,Washington, and Tanya Nicole Manganello of Traverse City, Michigan; three sisters, Sandy Burney Vance of Quilcene, Washington, Julie Burney Brooks of Clarksdale, Mississippi and Lisa Burney Gilliland of Mathiston, Mississippi.; and two granddaughters, Alieyah Jordon and Alexis Marcel of Olympia, Washington.

A memorial service will be held in Doug's memory Friday November 28 at 5:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Ackerman, where Doug remained a member throughout his life. Rev. Buddy Smith will officiate. The family is asking that in lieu of flowers, memorials are to be sent to The Disabled Veterans of America, Federal Building, Room 1040, 915 2nd Avenue, Seattle, Washington 98174.

Trudy Austin Zilinskas

2007-07-09T21:51:00.000-05:00

Graveside services were held Tuesday, May 20, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. at Crape Creek Baptist Church Cemetery in Choctaw County, MS. Visitation was held Monday, May 19, 2003, from 5-7 pm at Jefferson Memorial Trussville Chapel.

Mrs. Zininskas of Center Point, AL, died May 16, 2003, at her residence of an apparent heart attack. She is survived by her husband, Greg Zilinskas, one son, Jason Zilinskas and two grandchildren, Austin and Anna Jayde Zilinskas. She is also survived by four sisters, Carolyn Fiore, Topsie King, Geneva Harris, all of Birmingham, AL and Nell Atkinson of Lousiville, MS; two brothers, O'Keefe Austin and W.C. Austin.

Jeanette Thompson Barksdale

2007-07-09T21:44:00.000-05:00

Services for Jeanette Thompson Barksdale, 57, of Ackerman were held at 2 p.m., Monday, May 26, 2003 at Concord Baptist Church with Revs. Steve Yarber and Rob Faulk officiating. Interment was held in Concord Baptist Church Cemetery. Nowell Funeral Services of Ackerman was in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Barksdale died May 23, 2003 at her residence. She was born February 27, 1946 in Choctaw County. She was not employed and was a member of Chester Baptist Church.

Survivors include two daughters, Michelle Hargett of Baldwyn and Sarah Woodward of Tuscaloosa, AL; two brothers, Hervey Thompson of Ackerman and J.W. Thompson of St. Petersberg, FL; two sisters, Charlotte Vickers of Sturgis and Ilene Alliston of Crystal Springs and three grandchildren.

Leonard G. Black

2007-07-09T21:39:00.000-05:00

Leonard G. Black, 77, a longtime building contractor and co-owner of Black Brothers Building Supply, died of heart failure Saturday, June 29, 2002, at North Mississippi Medical Center. Services are 2 p.m. today at Enon Cumberland Presbyterian Church with burial in Enon Cemetery. Nowell Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Mr. Black was a member of Enon Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Ackerman. He was a Navy veteran of World War II.

Survivors include: wife, Beatrice Black of Ackerman; sons, Jerry Black of Ackerman, Gary Black and wife, Judy of Piedmont, Ala. and Ricky Joe Black and wife, Linda of Jackson; daughter, Regina Liddell and husband, Ricky of Vicksburg; brothers, Bobby Black of Ackerman and Billy Joe Black Sr. of Ackerman; nine grandchildren, Paige Black, Chris Black, Jason Black, Dawn Bouchillon, Heather Black, Amber Vowell, Justin Liddell, Megan Liddell and Chelsey Liddell; and five great-grandchildren, Stephanie Black, Justin Black, Lauren Bouchillon, Avery Bouchillon and Woody Vowell II.

Memorials may be made to Enon Cumberland Presbyterian Church Family Life Center, P.O. Box 294, Ackerman, MS 39735.

R.T. Ward

2007-07-09T20:05:00.000-05:00

SENATOBIA - Roger Truett "R.T." Ward, 87, died Sunday, July 15, 2001, at the Calhoun County Nursing Home in Calhoun City. He was born September 28, 1913, in Louisville. He was a 1939 graduate of Delta State Teachers College and a 1950 graduate of the University of Mississippi, where he received a master of science degree in school administration. He was a teacher from 1939-1944, then served as principal for Drew High School, Walnut School, Bruce High School, Lambert High School, Ackerman High School, Marks High School and Quitman County High School. For two years he served as a hospital administrator in Ackerman. From 1976-1983 he held the office of superintendent of education for the Quitman County School System. From 1976-1987 he served on the board of Trustees for Northwest Mississippi Community College, where he was chairman of the board from 1981-1985. He also was a board member of Coahoma Mississippi Community College. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Marks, where he was a lifetime deacon and former Sunday School teacher. He was a Mason, and a member of Rotary International, Mississippi Association of School Administrators, Mississippi Association of School Superintendents, National Educators Association and his educational fraternity, Red Red Rose.

Services will be at 11 a.m. today at the First Baptist Church of Marks with Rev. Laurie Jones and David Meadors officiciating. Burial will be in Marks Cemetery. Kimbro Funeral Home of Marks is in charge of arrangements.

Survivors include two daughters, Rebecca Ward Arrington of Houston and Patricia Ward Lowder of Senatobia; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren.

Memorial donations may be made to the R.T. Ward Endowed Scholarship at Northwest Community College or the First Baptist Church of Marks.