Deloris Baugess
Baugess- Deloris Jean “D.J.” Baugess, 75, of Starke passed away Friday, Aug. 16, 2024, at Roberts Care Center Haven Hospice in Palatka. D.J. was born in Baldwin on April 24, 1949, to the late Charles and Bertie Chitty. She was a lifelong resident of Bradford County. After school, she started working at the poultry farms as an egg collector. She was a hard worker and was determined to be an entrepreneur. A few years later, she embarked on her entrepreneurial journey as the proud owner and operator of Pine Tree Inn. She managed her company for over 25 years until her retirement. In her spare time, she enjoyed being outdoors, fishing, and more recently loved bingo. It was her weekly treat to play bingo with her fellow competitors. She loved the simple pleasures in life and was grateful for the small blessings. She was loved by so many and will be greatly missed. D.J. was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Bertie Chitty; daughter, Mary Baugess; son-in-law, Jerry Westberry; sisters, Louise Knight, Dolly Wells, and Marian Wagner; brothers, Fred and David Chitty; and grandson, Tommy Baugess.
She is survived by her husband, Larry David Baugess; children, Lorettea Westberry of Starke, Albert (Jackie Christine) Baugess of Lawtey, and Richard Baugess of Starke; grandchildren, Paul Allen (Erica) Holt, Joey Baugess, and Kenneth Andrew Baugess; great-grandchildren, Remington Paul Holt and Trenton Holt; close friend and caretaker David Sweat; along with many extended family members and friends.
A graveside celebration service will be held on Friday, Aug. 23, at 11 a.m. at Keystone Heights Cemetery with Chaplain Jim Cox officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday 30 minutes prior to the service at the cemetery.
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
Samuel Bennett
Samuel “Sam” Bennett, 55, of Pittsfield, Massachusetts transitioned on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. A native of Starke, he attended the local schools of Bradford County and served in the United States Army.
He is survived by his wife, Eleanor Bennett; five daughters; one son; three brothers; one sister; 13 grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and many sorrowing friends.
Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 24, in the Freewill Memorial Garden Cemetery in Starke. Interment will be under the direction of Haile Funeral Home Inc., 802 N. Oak St., Starke, 32091. 904-964-7905
PAID OBITUARY
Barbara Brown
Barbara “Bobbie” Pearson Wike Brown, 85, of Starke, died Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024. Bobbie was born in Jacksonville in 1939 to Earl and Ethel Pearson. She grew up with her older sister and mentor, Joyce Pearson Peoples, and her younger sister, Joanne Pearson Bertram. She attended Andrew Jackson High School and had fond memories of her childhood. She told stories about attending drive-in movies and sock hops with friends and going on double dates with her sister, Joyce. More than anything, she loved playing sports. She was very athletic and earned her letterman jacket playing basketball and softball. Although she was an avid reader, she claimed that she was not very academic, but she always maintained good grades with the help of her older sister. Bobbie also played violin in her high school orchestra. In addition to stories about her childhood, she liked to talk about her exciting life as a wife and mother. When she was first married, she relocated with her husband, Lloyd, who was in the military, to Denver, Colorado. Later they moved back to Florida, where she and her family kept horses and participated in countless horse shows. She had many hobbies and interests. She was a terrific cook and talented seamstress. After her children were grown, she traveled the world with her husband. For decades she told stories about her adventures in the Middle East, Egypt, and Europe. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Lloyd Franklin Wike, and her second husband, Lauren Carl Brown.
She is survived by her three children, Katherine Wike (Chuck) Chambliss, Debbie Wike (Keith) Walker, and Barbara Wike (John) Coleman. She is also survived by her three grandchildren, Jacob (Kim) Clemons, Alex (Eric) Scamahorn, and Courtney (Matt) Magierski; and her four great- grandchildren, Shyann Clemons, Case Clemons, Malcolm Scamahorn, and Miles Scamahorn. Bobbie loved her family. She is greatly loved and will be greatly missed.
PAID OBITUARY
Larry Hurst Jr.
Larry “Patrick” Hurst Jr., 50, of Starke passed away Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville. He was born Sept. 13, 1973, in Jacksonville and was of the Baptist faith. He graduated from the University of Florida with his bachelor of science in nursing in 1998. His career in the nursing field included serving as a flight nurse for Trauma One in Jacksonville, as well as supervisor and nurse manager for Putnam Community Medical Center. He also worked as a paramedic with Bradford EMS and was currently working as a traveling nurse. He served his country in the United States Army. Preceding him in death was his father, Larry Patrick Hurst.
Survivors are his wife of 30 years, Dana (Whitaker) Hurst of Starke; children, Larry Patrick “Trey” Hurst III of Starke, Hannah Haley Hurst of Starke, Andrew John Hurst of Starke, Aidan Joshua Hurst of Starke; and his mother, Willa Ann Hurst of Starke.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, Aug. 24, from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Lake Butler, with memorial services beginning at 11 a.m. Pastor Jason Johns will officiate. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made directly to the family for expenses.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Donald Jackson
Donald Edison Jackson, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away Monday, Aug. 19, 2024, at the North Florida Regional Medical Center. He was born on March 15, 1935 in Raiford and lived a life marked by love, strength, and dedication to family. At the age of 18, he joined the Merchant Marines, beginning a journey of service that would resonate throughout his life. He found his true calling later on. Col. Jackson retired from the Florida Department of Corrections after 33 years of dedicated service. His commitment to the agency was matched by his deep love for his family, who also continued his legacy of service. His wife, Virginia, served for 10 years as a correctional officer at Florida State Prison. Their son, Donnie Jackson Jr., followed in his father’s footsteps, dedicating 32 1/2 years to the department, and retiring as assistant warden at FSP. Their daughter, Debbie, worked as a nurse, and her husband, Richard Flynn, is still a valued member of the FDC team. Col. Jackson’s leadership was instrumental in shaping many of the procedures and policies the department still follows today. His integrity, courage, and relentless pursuit of excellence were not just ideals he preached—they were values he lived by every day. Known for his calm demeanor, he was the epitome of a servant leader who cared deeply for his people. A defining moment in his career was during the tragic incident involving Sgt. John S. Dennard at Union Correctional Institution, where his courage and composure prevented further violence and ensured the safety of his staff. His actions earned him the lasting respect and gratitude of those who served with him. Beyond his professional achievements, he was deeply committed to building a sense of community. He played a key role, alongside other like-minded individuals, in establishing the annual Old Timers events, which were created to strengthen the connections between current staff and retirees. Every Christmas and Thanksgiving, he made it a point to personally reach out to his FDC family, offering advice, engaging in heartfelt conversations, and showing sincere concern for their well-being. He held a deep appreciation for adventure, and his hobbies included hunting, fishing, and riding around, reminiscing about times gone by. He particularly enjoyed traveling with the “Jackson Crew,” creating lasting memories with those he loved most. It cannot go without saying how very much he loved his Jackson’s Building Supply buddies. Those men and their antics gave him more joy than they will ever know, and the family is truly grateful to them for loving him.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Virginia Evelyn Jackson. Together, they built a loving family that will continue to honor his legacy. He is the proud father of Debbie (Richard) Flynn, Donnie (Donna) Jackson, and Lynn (Dean) Weaver. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Dawn (Tony) Rizer, Kage (Lindsey) Crews, Anthony (Kayla) Flynn, and Jeffrey Goodman. His legacy extends into the next generation with great-grandchildren, Hayden, Mason, Madison, Lake, Hanna, Kileigh, Skylar, Kingsley, and Ashton, who brought immense joy to his life.
He was preceded in death by his father, J.C. Jackson; his mother, Olene (Arvin) Douberly; and his brothers, Ronald “Buddy” Jackson and William “Bill Boy” Jackson. Each of these family members played a significant role in shaping the man he became, and he will be remembered alongside them with love and respect.
A viewing will be held on Friday, Aug. 23, from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at First Christian Church, 155 N.W. First St., Lake Butler. This will be followed by a funeral service at the same location, which will commence at 11 a.m. He will be laid to rest at Swift Creek Cemetery.
Archer Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve the Jackson family during this trying time.
PAID OBITUARY
Kathy Kopelousos
Kathy Kopelousos watched her last sunset on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, peacefully on her deck overlooking the river. She succumbed to a six-year, hard-fought battle with endometrial cancer. Born in Gainesville on Nov. 2, 1962, her love for life and family was evident in everything she did. A proud Gator, she attended the University of Florida from 1980 to 1983, and her devotion to her alma mater never waned. Her Gator flag flew high during college football season, and her fall parties for the Florida-Georgia game were legendary. She later moved to Illinois, where she obtained both her bachelor of arts and master of science degrees from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. She dedicated over two decades to teaching as a math professor at Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey, Illinois, from 1996 until her retirement in 2018. Her passion for teaching and her students was matched only by the joy she found in her family and friends. She remained in Illinois after retirement, enjoying the amazing friendships and connections she had developed over the years in the area. Her life was rich with love and connection. She was the ultimate big sister to her five siblings and an amazing aunt to all of her nieces and nephews, always sending care packages or super cute, hand-crafted, home-made cards for special occasions—or just because. Her love for poker led her to start the cherished tradition of “family poker – no pennies on the table” at every gathering. Her local poker family was an immense support during her battle with cancer, and no matter how tough her day was, she always rallied for her weekly games. Anna Maria Island held a special place in her heart. She spent countless hours walking the beach in search of elusive shark’s teeth that seemed to magically appear for only her, enjoying a burger at Duffy’s Tavern, or challenging locals to poker at Decoy Ducks. These simple pleasures defined the essence of who she was—a lover of life’s small joys, shared with those she cared about.
Kathy is survived by her mother, Mary Katherine Wainwright, of Sarasota; her father and stepmother, John and Ann Kopelousos, of Jacksonville; her sisters, Angela (Bill) Black, Georgia Kopelousos, and Mary Margaret (Robert) Estill; her brothers, G. John (Shannon) Kopelousos and Leslie (Ghita) Alderman; and her beloved nieces and nephews, George, John, Anna, Caroline, Ellie, and Nina. She also had a special bond with Ashtyn Britt, of whom she was very fond.
Kathy’s legacy is one of love, generosity, and resilience. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. A Celebration of Life will be planned for a later date in honor of Kathy and all that knew her will be invited to attend.
As much as Kathy loved flowers and cards, we know she would be smiling down if you would simply make a donation to a cause that was near and dear to her heart. The St. Louis Peregrine Society is dedicated to improving the life of cancer patients living in the greater St. Louis area. https://peregrinesoc.org/donation/
Gent Funeral Home in Alton, Illinois is in charge of arrangements. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Marvin Noegel Jr.
Retired U.S. Army Maj. Marvin Edward “Ed” Noegel Jr. passed away at his home Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024. He was born Oct. 19, 1947, and was the eldest son of Mary Ester Martin Noegel and Marvin Edward “Bo” Noegel Sr. He was born in Lake City and the family moved from Starke to Lake Butler in 1967. Ed served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, receiving several honors and accommodations, and was a career officer for over 20 years. During his training, he was stationed in Germany, where he met Rose in Camp King, near Frankfurt. They later married in Bo and Mary’s home in Lake Butler in 1972. Ed graduated from Bradford County High School, Class of 1965, received a bachelor’s degree from University of Florida in 1970, and an MBA from Boston University in 1979. He was a retired Army veteran, retired high school math teacher, former Florida Department of Corrections officer, and former car salesman. In his youth, he was an avid hunter and enjoyed hunting deer with his brother and father. Ed was also an avid fisherman, accomplished golfer, and huge Florida Gator fan, having played high school football with Bradford County Tornadoes and UF alumni. Following his retirement, he took great pleasure in grilling for his grandkids, Dylan, Brandon, and Marina and their families and watching ballgames. He also enjoyed fishing and hunting with his cousin, Gary, and visiting with Pattie and Gary and their family, fishing with his grandsons Dylan and Brandon and their father, Joe, and golfing with his grandson Dylan. Ed’s daughter, Aileen, and her husband, Romas, are here from Germany, and Aileen is his personal representative. Ed was a loving and caring husband, father, and grandfather. He loved his family and friends and was also loved by many. He was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Rosemarie “Rose” Kunkel Noegel; his daughter Tabatha “Tabby” Ramos; and his nephew, Jason Cummings.
He is survived by his daughter, Dr. Aileen (Romas) Iverson-Radtke; and his daughter Tabatha’s three children, Ed’s grandchildren, Dylan (Sarah), Marina Ramos (Nicky) Chaumet, Brandon Ramos; and their father, Ed’s son-in-law, Jose “Joe” Ramos. Also, his sister, Cynthia “Cindy” Noegel; his brother, Louis “Louie” Noegel Sr.; five nephews and nieces: Louie (Amanda) Noegel Jr., Jeremy (Erica) Noegel, Christy Noegel, Becky (Steve) Shadd, and Zachary Cummings; and their children, Ed’s great-nieces and nephews. Also, his cousins, Patti Bedenbaugh (Gary) Thomas, Jackie (Dan) Harrison; many extended family cousins; and many proud Bradford County football fans. He also will be missed by his special friends, Brother Art (Janis) Peterson, Cynthia “Sis” Whitehead, and Gary Thomas. He was also grateful for his high school friends from Bradford High Class of 1965 and his community of friends at First Christian Church, where he was a member. Ed also leaves behind his friend and devoted dog, “Spud”; and many cats that he and his wife cared for over the years.
Funeral services for include a visitation with the family at 10 a.m., followed by a service at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 22, at First Christian Church, with Pastor Shane Collins and Brother Art Peterson officiating. Followed by a luncheon in the church, he will be laid to rest in a private ceremony with immediate family in Dekle Cemetery, joining there his wife, Rose, and daughter, Tabby. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Christian Church, 155 N.W. First St., Lake Butler 32054, the Florida Veterans Foundation or the ASPCA.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to once again serve the Noegel family. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Lillie Roddey
Mrs. Lillie Mae Roddey, 82, of Starke, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024, at Haven Hospice in Orange Park. She attended the local schools of Bradford County. She worked as seamstress for several years before retiring. She enjoyed taking care of her grandkids, cooking and attending to her flowers. She was also a long-time loyal member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church.
Lillie is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Clarence Roddey; sons, Jeff Rusie and Winslow Roddey; daughters, Classie Cooper, Tasha Roddey and Karen Aldridge; sister, Joyce Perry. She was also blessed with 10 grandchildren and eight great- grandchildren.
Viewing will be held Friday, Aug. 23, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, Starke. Funeral services will be held Saturday, Aug. 24, at 11 a.m. at Antioch Baptist Church. The funeral cortege will assemble at 10:45 a.m. on Saturday, Aug 24, at the home of Mrs. Lillie Roddey. Services will be officiated by Rev. Michael Johnson. Interment will follow at Clark Cemetery.
Professional services are entrusted to J. Hadley Funeral Home, 2030 N. Temple Ave., Starke. 352-286-5946.
PAID OBITUARY
