Bennie Adams
Bennie Adams, 88, of Alachua, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at his home surrounded by family. He was born on Jan. 22, 1936, in Erin, Tennessee, to Okla Homa and Verble Golden Adams. At the age of 11, his family moved to Florida looking for work and they settled in the Titusville area. He began working at a young age in construction. That work ethic would prove valuable as he had a successful career specializing in the asphalt industry. While working on a project in Palatka, he stopped in at a diner and met the love of his life, Mary Sue Crawford. The couple would go on to enjoy 61 years of marriage. After his retirement in 1997, they relocated to Alachua. He was known as “Mr. Fix It.” He was a talented handyman who enjoyed woodworking, mechanics, and tinkering with small engines. He was a member of New Oak Grove Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Robert Dale Adams; and his brothers, Bob, Bill, and Brooks.
He is survived by his loving wife, Sue Crawford Adams of Alachua; his children, Deborah (Carlton) Smith of North Carolina, Carol Jean of Georgia, Judith of North Carolina, Bennie Ray (Melinda) Adams of Bartow, Raymond Bradley (Diana) Adams of Lakeland, and Randall Lee (Stacy) Adams of Bessemer, Alabama; 19 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren; sister, Betty Cole of Griffin, Georgia; and numerous extended family members.
A funeral to honor his life was held on Saturday, April 6, at his church, New Oak Grove Baptist Church with Brother Terry Elixson, pastor, officiating. He was laid to rest in the church cemetery.
Arrangements were under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. 386-496-2008. www.ArcherFuneralHome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Donald B. Bagwell
Mr. Donald “Donnie” Barrie Bagwell, 77, of Starke passed away Thursday, April 4, 2024, at HCA Florida North Florida Hospital. He was born on Aug. 9, 1946, in Bradford County to the late Donald Franklin and Dorothy Rae (Dixon) Bagwell and was a lifelong area resident. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Starke and retired from the United States Army and Florida National Guard as a Command Sergeant Major. During his 32-year military career, he also worked for the Florida Department of Transportation as a structural material and research lab manager. His philosophy was “Let No Soul Cry Out, If Only I had Been Trained.”
Survivors are his wife of 57 years, Shirley (Morrison) Bagwell of Starke; son, Donald “Byron” Bagwell of Keystone Heights; nephew, Shane Johnson of Plano, Texas; and brother-in-law, Johnnie Johnson of Starke.
The family will receive friends in the DeWitt C. Jones Chapel on Thursday, April 11, beginning at 11 a.m. Funeral services will begin at 12 p.m. Entombment will follow at Crosby Lake Cemetery Mausoleum with military honors.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke, 32091. 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
David Burk
AWOC David Michael Burk, 37, of Whidbey Island, Washington went to be with our Lord on Friday, March 29, 2024, from injuries he sustained in a motorcycle accident. He was born Aug. 14, 1986, in Madison, Wisconsin. He proudly served eight-plus years in the United States Navy and had traveled the world. He was a musician, enjoyed music, his favorite color was blue, and he was known for always being a happy person. But mostly he was known for the love he had for God, his family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his sister, Tanya Drell.
Left behind to cherish his memory are his parents, Kathleen (Peter) Banning of Keystone Heights and Timothy (Lynn) Burk of Waukesha, Wisconsin; siblings, Michael Wayne Schmoyer, Kim Marie Schmoyer, and Robert (Shannon) Banning, Michael Fuss, Mike “Pedro” (Amanda) Burk, Jamie (Steve) Shirley, Benjamin Burk, Max (Jozie) Burk and Lukas David Burk. Also left behind is his soulmate, Anisa Colon; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends that became family.
A celebration of life will be held 11 a.m. at Paran Baptist Church, on Friday, April 12, with Pastor David Price officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 a.m. Interment with full honors will follow at Paran Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Wounded Warrior Project. There will be a gathering immediately following at Kathleen and Peter’s home.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Johnnie M. Cuffee
Johnnie M. Cuffee, 89, of Starke, died on Monday, April 1, 2024. She attended the local schools of Bradford County. She was a member of Greater Bethlehem Freewill Baptist Church in Starke and she retired from the Bradford County School Board.
She leaves precious memories to her daughters, Lula M. Cuffee, Sandra Cuffee, Gwendolyn Cuffee and Phyllis Thomas; her son, Lenwood Cufee; and host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and many sorrowing friends.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 13, at the Greater Freewill Bethlehem Baptist Church with Pastor Michael McDuffie, eulogist. Interment will be at Greater Bethlehem Memorial Garden Cemetery under the direction of Haile Funeral Home Inc., 802 N, Oak St., Starke 32091. 904-964-7905. Visitation will be held Friday, April 12, from 2:30 p.m until 5 p.m at Greater Freewill Baptist Church. The cortege will form on Saturday at 12:30 p.m at the home of Johnnie M. Cuffee, 318 Red Grave St. Starke 32091.
PAID OBITUARY
Ted Curtis Jr.
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ted B. Curtis Jr., who departed this life on Monday, April 1, 2024, at the age of 67. Born on Dec. 20, 1956, in Starke to Ted B. and Billie Jean (Lott) Curtis Sr., he was a dedicated, self-employed carpenter, often collaborating with his father in operating Curtis Recycling. He was a faithful member of the Church of Hampton, finding joy in spreading laughter and holding his faith in Jesus dear to his heart. His love knew no bounds, extending deeply to his treasured Jack Russell puppies, Jibby, BJ, and Fannie, that are left of the 19 furry companions he adored. His profound faith was the cornerstone of his life, reflecting in his devotion to Jesus, his cherished dogs, his beloved family, and his extensive circle of friends. His infectious laughter and boundless kindness touched the lives of all who knew him. He had a heart of gold, always ready to lend a helping hand and bring joy to those around him, including his cherished practice of distributing pocket crosses to all.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 15 years, Jody Stevens-Curtis; his children, Crystal “Sital” (Chad) Norman, Ted “Bubba” Curtis III, and Melissa “Sissy” Curtis; as well as his grandchildren, Alexandra N. Curtis, Chase B. Curtis, and Cayden W. Norman, who lovingly called him “Gampy.” He also leaves behind great-grandchildren, Annslie Thomas and Alister Thomas, who were the light of his life. In addition to his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, he is survived by his devoted mother, Billie Jean Curtis; and siblings: Sheila (Frank) Bryant, James (Christy) Curtis, Brenda (Steve) Jones, and Denise (Aaron) Mathews. Though deeply mourned, Ted’s passing reunites him with his late father, Ted B. Curtis Sr.; and his sister, Melissa G. Newman. Their memories will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him.
A service to celebrate his life was held at The Church of Hampton, 10196 N Division St, Hampton 32044, on Friday, April 5, with Pastor Donnie Lott and Pastor John Hodges officiating.
PAID OBITUARY
Wayne Moore
Clarence Wayne Moore, 77, a lifelong resident of Starke passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Friday, April 5, 2024, at Community Hospice. He was born April 15, 1946, to Clarence and Doris (Brown) Moore. Prior to retirement, he was employed by Winn-Dixie as a manager in the meat cutting department. He enjoyed being outdoors fishing, farming, or just sitting on the back porch drinking his coffee, smoking a cigar, and playing his guitar. He also had a love for his cats and dog. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Clara Susie (King) Moore; a sister, Gloria May; and two grandsons, Clinton Moore Jr. and Trey Gilpin.
His survivors are two children, Clint (Ruth) Moore and Kelly (Matt) Roling, all of Starke; sisters, Sharon Carlton of Lawtey, Kathy (Doug) Bennett of Starke, Ann Arflin of Pensacola, Cindy (Jimmy) Wheeler, Donna (Kevin) Elixson, all of Starke, and Teresa Richard Martin of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Also left behind are six grandchildren, Ashley Sharpe, Crystal Moore, Darren Jackson, Logan McKinley, Cody Moore and Connor Roling; along with six great-grandchildren.
A viewing will be held Wednesday, April 10, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the DeWitt C. Jones Chapel. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. on Thursday, April 11, at DeWitt C. Jones Chapel with Mr. Mathew Carlton officiating. Interment will follow at Sapp Cemetery.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 Nona St., Starke, 32091. 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Althea NesSmith
Althea May Schoonover NesSmith passed away on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Haven Hospice in Lake City. Born on Nov. 25, 1945, in Corning, New York to Hugh Schoonover and Mildred Austin. She was raised near Knoxville, Pennsylvania, graduating from Cowanesque Valley High School in 1963. After graduation, she enrolled in cosmetology school where she met her future husband, Carlton NesSmith, and they were married in 1965. After marriage they moved to Lakeland until moving to Providence in 1980. Known to her family as “Nanny,” she was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Known for her love for traveling, bingo, cheering on her grands’ sports teams, and caring for her family.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 38 years, Elma Carlton NesSmith; a son, Bryan Scott NesSmith; and a brother, Edward Lee Schoonover.
She is survived by a son, Bruce (Michelle) NesSmith; daughters, Kim (Shane) Kennedy and Kelly (Bruce) Dukes; eight grandchildren, Aaron (Chesley) Dukes, Mason Dukes, Morgan (Brennan) Starling, Austin (Hayley) Dukes, Shawn Cloud, Stephanie (Lance) Thornton, Ashley Lasseigne (Gaje), and Taylor Lee (Hunter); 10 great-grandchildren (and one due in May), Boone Dukes, Shep Dukes, Everley Dukes, Jude Dukes, Darby Starling, Hampton Dukes, Luke “L.A.” Dukes, Lyla Starling, Micah Dukes, and Eva Chancey; and a sister-in-law, Marie Lewis of Jacksonville.
A service to honor her life was held at Archer-Milton Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 9. The family received friends for a visitation prior to the service She was laid to rest immediately following the service at Oak Grove Cemetery.
Arrangements were under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home. 386-496-2008.
PAID OBITUARY
Patricia Sost-Hyde
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Patricia Sost-Hyde, cherished sister, and esteemed nurse, who peacefully passed away on Monday, April 1, 2024. Her life was a beacon of love, compassion, and dedication to her family, her faith, and her profession. Born on Aug. 12, 1957, she embarked on a journey filled with compassion and service, exemplified by her distinguished nursing career. For many years, she dedicated herself to caring for others, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those she served at Lake City Medical Center and North Florida Regional Hospital. Her unwavering commitment to healing and comforting others was a testament to her compassionate nature and unwavering professionalism. Her faith was central to her life, and she found strength and solace as a devoted member of Cross Church. Her unwavering devotion to her spiritual community was a guiding light in her life, providing her with comfort, support, and a sense of purpose. Beyond her professional and spiritual endeavors, Patricia found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She had a special fondness for llamas and delighted in showcasing these gentle creatures whenever she had the opportunity. Additionally, she found solace and creativity in crocheting blankets, each stitch a labor of love that brought warmth and comfort to those fortunate enough to receive them. She also enjoyed exploring the vast world of online shopping and cherished the moments spent dining out with her loved ones. One of her greatest joys was gathering with her family, especially during the cherished holiday of Thanksgiving. Her presence illuminated every celebration with warmth, laughter, and love, leaving an enduring legacy of togetherness and gratitude. She was preceded in death by her father, Charles E. Sost; and mother, Patricia A. Sost. Patricia leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed by her beloved siblings, brothers, Paul (Maryanne) Sost of Plantation and Lawrence (Melody) Sost of Grant; sisters, Kathleen Sost of Lake City and Charlene (Christopher) Liston of Providence; nieces, Chelsea, Nicole, Katie and Kelly; nephews, Shawn, Bryan, Matthew S, Matthew L., Timothy and Christopher; great-nieces, Annaston, Bailey, Taylor, Amara, Arloh, and Arden; great-nephews, Noah, Cameron, Barrington, Kolby and Greyson.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 13, at 2 p.m. at Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home, where family and friends will come together to honor and remember her remarkable journey. Visitation with the family will be held one hour prior to service. Though she may be gone from our sight, her spirit will forever live on in our hearts. Rest in peace, dear Patricia. Your love, laughter, and legacy will forever be cherished and remembered.
Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home, 2596 S. US Hwy 441, Lake City. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gateway-forestlawn.com
PAID OBITUARY
