Obituaries — April 30, 2024

Franklin D. Camp

Franklin D. Camp

Franklin Delano Camp, 89, passed away Monday, April 8, 2024, in Lawtey. He was born April 15, 1934, in Cottonwood, Alabama. He served 20 years in the United States Air Force, retiring on June 30, 1974. His assignments included, Larson AFB, Washington; Charleston, South Carolina; Itazuka, Japan; Brookley AFB, Alabama; McChord AFB, Washington; three years at Hickam AFB, Hawaii; and four years at JAG, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. He served in both Vietnam and Thailand, flying in and out of Vietnam, and taught English in school for one year to the children of Thailand. He was assigned to Auburn University as coordinator of the Pershing Rifle Team for four years. Later, he was assigned to Hamilton AFB, California before being reassigned to Havre AFB, where he retired and came to Florida. Later, he was hired at Union Correctional Institution as an assistant investigator before moving to Lawtey Correctional as an investigator. He also started a senior center in Starke, which was there for many years. He can be remembered for his love and caring for others. He helped so many in need. He loved his family dearly and was dearly loved by them also. He will be so missed, but he will still be with us always.

Survivors are his wife, Sonia; daughter, Deborah Luke (fiance, Billy Smith); son, Bryan (Dawn) Camp; grandchildren, Kindal Mobley, Christina Patrick (Eddie Cashmere), Keisha Hackney (Chris Taylor), and Shelby Brushingham; great-grandchildren, Corey Patrick, Austin Mobley, Dawson Hackney, Bryson Mobley, and Justin Cashmere; a niece, Linda Tatum, whom he was very close to; and many other loved nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 4, at 2:30 p.m. at Grace Methodist Church, 1822 Madison St. (State Road 225), Lawtey.

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

 

Hyta Campbell

Mrs. Hyta Gayle Campbell, 68, died Friday, April 26, 2024, at her home. She preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Amy Michelle Thomas; and two siblings, Frank Johnson and Lama Johnson.

Survivors are her children, Clint Thomas and Tessa Thomas; six grandchildren; a brother, Vance “Seaboard” (Sharon) Johnson; and sister, Ruby Easterling.

There are no currently scheduled services.

Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke 32091 904-964-6200  www.jonesgallagherfh.com.

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

Jannie Christmas

 

 

Jannie Christmas

On the morning of Sunday, April 21, 2024, Jannie Sue Christmas passed away peacefully due to natural causes at Riverwood Nursing Home in Starke. She was 75 years old.

She is survived by her four sons, Stanley (LeeAnn) Hamilton, William Hamilton, Charles (Lynda) Hamilton, and Ronnie Crosby; a sister, Mary Parker; along with several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews and many friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 15. Details will be announced at a later date.

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

 

 

 

 

Emory Crews Jr.

Emory Crews Jr.

Emory Lee “Buddy” Crews Jr., 41, of Orange Park, passed away on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at North Florida Regional Medical Center in Starke.  He was born in Jacksonville on July 29, 1982, to his parents, Emory Lee Crews Sr. and Diana Lynn Gilkey. He was raised in Jacksonville, Middleburg, and Lawtey.  After attending Bradford High School, he had a long career in welding and, more recently, has enjoyed his time as a cook. He liked cooking for others and especially loved grilling. He was an avid Florida Gator football fan and enjoyed fishing and being outdoors in the woods.  More than anything, he loved his family and enjoyed playing outside with children and nephews. He was certainly a treasure and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his stepmother, Katherine Crews.

He is survived by his parents, Emory Lee Crews Sr. and Diana Lynn Gilkey, both of West Virginia; children, Luke Feagin and Ashton Fowler, both of Lake City, Brittany Crews of South Carolina, and Brileigh Crews of Orange Park; sisters, Deanna (Derrick) Barnes of West Virginia, and Christina (Michael) Addis and Jessica (Chris Blair) Crews, both of Lake City; nephews, Kamran and Eli Jones, and Derrick Barnes Jr.; along with several extended family members and friends.

A Celebration of Life was held on Monday, April 29, at Ferreira Funeral Services Chapel.  The family received friends at the funeral home prior to the service.  A private interment was held at Macedonia Cemetery in Macclenny.

Arrangements were under the care and direction of Ferreira Funeral Services, 458 S. Marion Ave., Lake City 32025, 386-752-1234. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com and sign the family’s guest book.

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

 

Wendell Davis

Wendell Davis

Wendell R Davis, 81, of Hampton, passed away on Monday, April 22, 2024, at HCA Florida North Florida Hospital in Gainesville. He was born in Sylvester, Georgia on March 28, 1943, to the late George Alvin Davis and Jeanette Davis. He was born in Worth County and raised in Gainesville. He met the love of his life and forever companion, Phyllis Davis, while working at a service station, which she lived across the street from. It was love at first sight, and 11 months later they were married on Dec. 15, 1963. Wendell worked as a mechanic for 22 years and then went to work at Sawyer Gas in Lake Butler for 25 years, where he retired as manager. The Lord saved him in 1991 at the First Baptist Church of Lawtey under the ministry of Brother Dean McNeese. From there, he faithfully served the Lord at Bible Baptist Church in Starke under Brother Roger Worten. He loved his pastor and church family. In his spare time he enjoyed being with his family, fishing, cooking, baking, watching Gator games, spending time outside, and serving with his church family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He loved his family with all his heart and faithfully prayed for them. He was the kindest man and made an impact on many people. He was preceded in death by his parents; and twin brother, Glendall Davis.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Phyllis Davis of Hampton; children, Donald (Vella) Davis, Sherry (Larry) Turbyfield, Marty (Kim) Davis, and Melissa (Gary) McDonald; grandchildren, Katherine (Patrick) Martin, Kimberly (Caleb) Williams, Jessica Smiley, Justin (Lindsay) Davis, Elizabeth (Michael) Cabrera, Hannah McDonald, Grace McDonald, and Nehemiah McDonald; great- grandchildren, Brayden, Austin, Tyson, Branson, Cameron, Jackson, Justus, Jillian, Lucy, Weston, Elijah, and Levi; sisters, Jean (Gary) Mills and Janice Noegel; brothers, Bobby (Deloris) Davis and Jerry (Elaine) Davis; along with numerous nieces and nephews. We will all miss him greatly.

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

 

Idolia Edwards

Idolia Edwards

Idolia June Edwards, 84, passed away on Friday, April 26, 2024, surrounded by her family at her home in Starke. Born on April 9, 1940, and a lifelong resident of Bradford County, her journey through life was marked by grace, kindness, and an unwavering dedication to caring for others. For over two decades, she immersed herself in the world of childcare, dedicating her time and energy to nurturing and shaping the young minds under her care. Her career in a daycare was not just a job; it was a testament to her boundless love and patience, traits that defined her not only professionally, but personally as well. Described as mellow, even-tempered, sweet, and kind, her gentle spirit left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Beyond her work, she found joy in simple pleasures like cooking and preserving vegetables. She was also an active member of Grace United Methodist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Maxie and Lois Tanner; her husband, Tommy Edwards; son, Robert Edwards; brother, Randall Box; and grandson, Tim Edwards.

June’s legacy extends to her surviving family members. Her children, Larry (Kathy) Edwards of Hawthorne, Lionel (Lynn) Edwards of Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Alicia (John) Padgett of Starke; grandchildren, Matt Edwards, Andrew Edwards, Curtis Edwards, Christopher Edwards, Joshua Edwards, Collie Padgett, Masey Padgett, Kelsey Padgett, and Zack Melton; 17 great-grandchildren; a daughter-in-law, Kim Edwards; and numerous nieces and nephews.

To honor June, a visitation was held Tuesday, April 30, and a funeral service on Wednesday, May 1. Both services were held at Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. June was laid to rest immediately following the funeral service next to her husband at Long Branch Cemetery. Services were officiated by Pastor Don Thompson.

Arrangements were under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home. 386-496-2008  www.archerfuneralhome.com 

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

 

Bobbie Ellis

Bobbie Ellis

Bobbie Ellis, 69, passed away at North Florida Regional Hospital in Gainesville on Sunday, April 21, 2024, due to complications from surgery. She was born in Lake City on Nov. 25,1954 to the late John T. and Montine Thomas. She attended and graduated from Union County High School (class of 1974). She was the owner and operator of The Grooming Boutique in Gainesville for 25 plus years until her retirement. She was known for her animated personality, had a cheerful attitude, was energetic and had an outgoing spirit. She was the family planner for scalloping trips at Steinhatchee and camping trips at state parks and springs. Her favorite hobbies were tending to her yard and plants, fishing, and taking trips. Bobbie always made friends wherever she went. She was kind and thoughtful to everyone and would help anyone in need.  She loved hanging out with friends and being with her family.

She is survived by her daughter, Kerry (Jack) Rawn of Loxahatchee; two grandchildren, Grace Rawn and J.D. Rawn; three sisters, Peggy MacFarlane of Lake Butler, Doretha (Chris) Barry of Lacrosse and Marie Skinner of Lake City; one brother, Ronald (Sally) Thomas of Brooker, and former husband, Charles Van Ellis. She was the favorite aunt of numerous nieces and nephews. She will be missed by us and many others.

A service to honor her was held at Archer-Milton Funeral Home on Monday, April 29. The family received family and friends for a visitation prior to the service. She was laid to rest immediately following the service at Elzey Chapel Cemetery.

Arrangements were under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

Joseph Henderson

Joseph L. Henderson, 42, of Lawtey, died Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at his residence. He attended the local schools of Bradford County. He was a member of True Gospel Missionary Church in Chiefland.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 4, at Mt. Zion AME Church in Lawtey. Interment will be held at Peetsville Cemetery under the direction of Haile Funeral Home Inc.  Visitation will be held on Friday, May 3, at the Carl and Elaine D. Haile Memorial Chapel/Haile Funeral Home Inc., 802 N. Oak St., Starke, 32091 904-964-7905 for friends from 12 p.m. until 5 p.m.

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

Manuel Hilliard

Manuel Hilliard

Manuel “Michael” Hilliard, 65, of Jacksonville, passed away Friday, April 26, 2024, at HCA Florida Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville. He was born in Jacksonville on Dec. 21, 1958, to the late Manuel Hilliard and Faye Elizabeth Wilkes Hilliard.  He was raised in Jacksonville and Starke.  After attending Bradford High School, he joined the United States Army in 1978 and proudly served our country for two years.  Following his honorable discharge from the military, he enjoyed a long, successful career as a butcher. He was a simple man who enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He enjoyed sitting on the front porch, drinking a glass of sweet tea and a cup of hot coffee.  He was known for his love of hunting and fishing, but more than anything, he loved his family.  He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Little Danny Frampton; and brothers, Darin and Joseph “Jody” Hilliard.

He is survived by his children, Angela (Danny) Frampton of Keystone Heights and John Michael (Brittini) Hilliard of Noble, Oklahoma; sister, Keena (Ronnie) Underhill of Georgia; grandchildren, Andria (Stephen) Howell, Bryce (Jordyn) Frampton, Caitlin Frampton, Wesley Hilliard, and Landon Hilliard; along with several extended family members and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, May 2, at 2 p.m. at Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel with Brother John Frampton officiating. Interment to follow at Evergreen Cemetery, Starke, where military honors will be rendered. The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 2, at 1 p.m. at the funeral home.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke, 904-964-5757. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family’s guest book.

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

Nancy Luke

Nancy Luke

Nancy Elizabeth Moulton Luke passed away on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville.  She was a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, who leaves behind a legacy of selflessness, compassion, and unwavering love for everyone she encountered. She was born on Aug. 4, 1953, in Miami. She graduated from Southwest Senior High School in 1971 and moved to Lake Butler in 1974, shortly after her marriage to Richard Luke. Her life was one of service and devotion; not only providing love, support, and guidance to her family and friends, but also in her work. She began her professional life as a teaching assistant for developmentally delayed children, then spent 20 years in community mental health. Next, she served as a care coordinator within the University of Florida’s neurology department and finally retired from the Florida Department of Corrections after 20 years of service. She didn’t just see these jobs as a paycheck, but instead as privileged opportunities to connect with people on a very personal level.  After retirement, she found a loving church family at Victory Christian Center, and she continued to give her time, talent, and material treasures in an effort to make a real difference in the lives of those around her.  Nancy was a proud “Galloneer” blood donor, participated in countless Relay for Life events, and facilitated smoking cessation programs, where she found great joy in seeing other people succeed. Her most treasured role, however, was being a mother to her twin daughters, Jacqueline Luke of Tallahassee and Danielle Luke (Drew Pirrit) of Perth, Western Australia, as well as being a grandmother to her only grandchild, Scarlett Luke-Johnson of Tallahassee.  She loved spending time with “her girls” as much as possible; beach combing in St. Augustine, watching a sunset, admiring the moon and stars, and gazing over a bonfire. She always noticed and savored the beauty of God’s creation around her.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Moulton and Dorothy Allen Moulton; a niece, Dorothy Loftice; and nephew, Anthony Bendjebar.

She is survived by her five siblings, Barbara Moulton (Alan Albee)  of Oakland, California, Stephen  (Wendy)  Moulton of Thurmont, Maryland, Mary Moulton of Chanhassen, Minnesota, Janet Conner of Jacksonville and Catherine Moulton (Richard Rich) of Sacramento, California; as well as many special nieces and nephews, Emily Moulton, Sarah Moulton-Albright, Jessica Bendjebar, Vinh Conner, Cynthia Kirkland, Catherine Conner, Stephanie  Moronta  and Taylor Moulton. 

A Celebration of Life life will be held on Saturday, May 4, at Archer-Milton Funeral Home, 55 N. Lake Ave., Lake Butler, 32054. Visitation is scheduled for 11 a.m., followed by a service at noon.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home. 386-496-2008  www.archerfuneralhome.com

PAID OBITURARY

 

 

 

Wildred Mayhair

 

Wildred Mayhair

Mrs. Wildred Mae Mayhair, 91, of Melrose passed away Thursday, April 25, 2024, at her home with her family at her side. She was born Aug. 31, 1932, in Chattahoochee to Willis and Rhonda (Crenshaw) Brown. In addition to her parents; she was preceded in death by her husband, J.C. Mayhair in 2006; and a grandson, Michael Hutchins in 2005.

She is survived by her brother, John Brown of Chipley; two sons, James Mayhair of Melrose, and Michael (Robyn) Mayhair of Bedford, Indiana; and a daughter, Debbie Mayhair (Kenneth) Hutchins. She was lovingly called “Meemaw” by eight grandchildren; 15 great- grandchildren; and one great-great- granddaughter. 

The family will have graveside services at Crain Cemetery in Milton, Santa Rosa County on Thursday, May 2, at 2 p.m. with her son-in-law, Kenneth Hutchins, officiating.

Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wanda Tyree

Wanda Tyree

Wanda Tyree of Chiefland, born Aug. 16, 1939, in Brooker, sadly left us on Saturday, April 13, 2024. She enjoyed traveling, fishing, square dancing, and being with family and friends. She was a member of the Brooker Baptist Church. She touched the hearts of everyone she met and will be missed dearly. She was preceded in death by her husband, Artell (Pug) Tyree; daughter, Darlene (Kathy) Gordon; brothers, Lawerance and Donald; and sister, Margie. 

She is survived by her daughters, Rhonda, Karen, and Cindy; son-in-law, Terry; sisters, Dee and Gladys; brother-in-law, Vernon; grandkids, Kelly and Matt, Ryan, Michelle, Danielle, Tina, Sabrina, Taylor, and Tyler; and seven great-grandkids. She also leaves behind her best friend and companion, Huey Crosby. 

Wanda’s Celebration of Life will be held at Brooker Baptist Church on Saturday, May 11, at 11 a.m.

PAID OBITUARY