Murrice Ebling
Murrice Earl Ebling, 85, of Melrose passed away at Roberts Care Center on Sunday, June 25, 2023. He was born Jan. 3, 1938, in Menomonie, Wisconsin to the late Erwin and Jenny (Gear) Ebling. He proudly served in the United States Army. He was an entertainment gaming and equipment business owner, along with owning Lee’s Bar with his wife, Barbara, in Melrose. He was an active member of AMVETS Post 86 and American Legion Post 202; he enjoyed life, having fun, and joking around with everyone.
Survivors are his wife, Barbara Deschamps; two children, Shawn Ebling of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Colleen Burrow of Keystone Heights; along with Barbara’s two sons, Frank Battista of Coloma, Michigan, and Robert Battista of Ft. Lauderdale. Also left behind are granddaughters, Carol, Catherine, Hailey; and grandsons Conner, Ethan, Matthew, and Frank.
A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, July 30, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. at AMVETS Post 86. Private interment was at Eliam Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke, 32091. 904-964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Marjorie Gilliam
Marjorie Grace Jackson Gilliam, 83, of Starke passed away Monday, July 24, 2023, at PruittHealth of Fleming Island. She was born on Nov. 20, 1939, in Bedford, Pennsylvania to the late Ralph Boyd and Estha (Price) Jackson and was a longtime area resident. Prior to retirement, she was the owner-operator of Gilliam’s Office Associates, doing tax preparation and bookkeeping. She enjoyed flower gardening and was known for the beautiful roses she grew. She loved to play with her dogs and watch the birds. Her greatest joy was her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Until her health declined, she attended Kingsley Lake Baptist Church and had a strong and profound faith in Jesus. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Clinton Gilliam Sr.; and siblings, Joanne Foor, and Ralph Jackson.
Survivors are her children, Yvonne Gilliam (Lu Cretia), Lorene (Lori) (Richard) Hall, Jerry Gilliam Jr., and Harlie Gilliam; and grandchildren, Danielle (Brennaen) Beckham, Stephanie (Robert) Reed, Tiffany (Preston) Rhoden, Michael (Rachael) Turner, Treavor Gilliam, Amanda Gilliam, Tabitha Gilliam, Nicole Weber, Lindsey Weber. Great-grandchildren include, Curtis Reed, Nora Reed, Adalynn Rhoden, Blake Beckham, Rylee Beckham, Vannessa Weber. Oakley Turner, and Cleo Turner. Also left are sisters, Jacqueline Schroer, Darlene Stephen, Dorothy Alderson, Sandra White; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends on Monday, July 31, at the DeWitt C. Jones Chapel of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. with funeral services beginning at 2 p.m. Interment will follow at Hope Cemetery. Pastor Jonathan Rodriguez will officiate with Jamie Pitts, Christopher Hall, Stephanie Reed, and Tiffany Rhoden providing music.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke, 904-964-6200.
PAID OBITUARY
Jacob Houdershelt
Jacob Jordan Houdershelt, 39, of Keystone Heights, died from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident early Saturday morning, July 15, 2023. He was born in Gainesville on Sept. 2, 1983, to Neva Janiece (Altman) and Bobby Lee Houdershelt. He attended Keystone Heights High School, where he played the flute in the Indian Marching Band. He loved music and learned to play several instruments. He was an avid wood worker and loved to make gifts for family and friends. He worked with his dear friend, Jason Kraemer, in Jason’s business enterprise, creating metal art. His most recent employment was with Lake Area Landscaping, where he was a supervisor. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, William Harvey and Irene Burnsed Houdershelt; and James William Altman and Neva Belle (Altman) (Pete) Bondi.
He is survived by one grandmother, Pearl Altman; parents, Bobby Lee (Debbie) Houdershelt, Neva Janiece (Randy) Manning; two brothers, Jeremy Jason Houdershelt and Joshua Justin Houdershelt; three stepbrothers, Michael Devon Fingulin, Thomas Joseph Fingulin, and Jonathan Kenneth Kwaak; and one stepsister, Victoria Marie Fingulin. He leaves behind seven cousins, Kimberly Altman, James Kenneth Altman, Cyan Michele Altman, Janelle Victoria Altman, Miranda Courtney (Altman) Boman, Heather Suzanne (Hany) Naggar, and Catherine Janeva (Ryan) Reeves. He also leaves behind a dear lifelong friend, Heather Wilson.
He did not have insurance of any kind. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, and will be greatly appreciated, to help defer end-of-life expenses. The Venmo link is venmo.com/u/dhoudershelt. Share a memory or condolences at www.jonesgallagherfh.com. Interment will be at Oak Grove Cemetery in Macclenny at a later date.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights, 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
Charles Kelley
Charles Bentley Kelley, 86, passed away peacefully at home and transitioned to his heavenly home on Saturday, July 22, 2023. He was born on Oct. 12, 1936, in Brooker to Otis Clyde Kelley and Doris Sowell Kelley. He graduated from Bradford High School in 1954. Soon after graduating, he enlisted in the United States Navy, where he would proudly serve and retire after 20 years of active service. Following his time in the military, he returned close to home and settled near Waldo. He then began to pursue another passion – farming. By early 1983, he would meet and marry his wife, Edwina. Together they became members of First Baptist Church of Waldo and began a small family farm. As their farm began to grow, he ran the Kelly U-Pick for many years, providing fresh vegetables to friends and family in the Waldo area. In his later years, he continued his passion for farming and enjoyed spending time with his immediate and extended family. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sarah Edwina (Wynn) Kelley; sister, Carolyn (Kelley) Dyal; and brothers, Roswell Kelley and Winston Kelley.
He is survived by his son, Shawn (Rachel) Kelley; his siblings, Lenox Kelley of Ormand Beach, Jerome Kelley of Brooker, Dottie Kelley (Terry) Cranford of Branford; two grandchildren, Sarah Kelley, and Nathan Kelley; and a host of family located both near and far.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, July 28, at 11 a.m. with viewing an hour prior from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Waldo with Rev. Jim Dubois officiating. Interment will follow at Dedan Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor him may make donations in his name to First Baptist Church of Waldo or Haven Hospice.
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
Kyle McDonald
Kyle William McDonald, 43, of Jacksonville passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 17, 2023. He was born in Jacksonville, and he moved and lived in various cities around the state of Florida with his father and mom. He was a graduate of Glades Day School in Belle Glade where he lettered in football. He was very athletic and loved sports. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, and he subsequently served at Parris Island; Iwakuni, Japan; and Cherry Point, North Carolina. He received honors during boot camp. He worked as a service writer and manager for diesel and truck repair companies in Wyoming and worked the parts counter at Lazenby Equipment in Hampton. In his spare time, he enjoyed water skiing, being on the water, and cheering on his favorite sports teams at Florida State University. He dearly loved his children, Erin, and Carter. He brought his unique and quick sense of humor to every gathering. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents; Eugene and Geraldine McDonald; maternal grandmother; Susie Eiland; and his grandfather and mentor, Loren Carter.
He is survived by his children; Erin Marie McDonald and Carter James McDonald; his father, Jim; his mom, Cindy McDonald; his mother; Toi Eiland; sisters; Morgan (Chuck) McDonald and Krystal McCauley; a brother, Ray (Amanda) McCauley; his paternal grandfather, Carl T. (CT) Eiland; his grandmother, Dorothy Carter; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles.
A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, July 27, at 11 a.m. at Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel in Starke with Rev. Alton C. Thornton officiating. The family will receive friends an hour prior at the funeral home. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in his honor.
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
Riley Rivera
Riley Rene Rivera, 2 weeks old, born Thursday, July 6, 2023, of Starke passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, July 22, 2023. She was born in Gainesville and resided in Starke with her mom, dad and three brothers. Little Riley was only with us for two short weeks, but she touched so many people hearts, even people who hadn’t gotten to meet her yet. She was happy, loved and a bright star to our life. Her three brothers were over the moon to have a little sister. She was proceeded in death by her maternal great-grandfather, Robert Thornton; and her maternal great- great-grandfather, George Griffis.
She is survived by her mom and dad, Cassandra (Cassie) Rene Garber and Jacob (Jake) Rivera; three brothers, Anthony Lucas Rivera, Andre Jace Rivera , Robert Jackson Rivera all of Starke; her maternal grandmother, Lisa Thornton of Starke; maternal great-grandmother, Audrey Thornton of Starke; maternal great-grandmother, Tina (Dennis) Garber of Starke; great-great- grandmother, Sandra Griffis of Lawtey; maternal grandfather Chris (Courtney) Garber of Inverness; paternal grandmother, Jamie Lucas; paternal grandfather, Leonardo Rivera; paternal uncle, Justus Harper; paternal aunt, Jayden Harper; aunt, Macy Thornton (Cody Lovett) of Starke; uncle, Eric Thornton (Skylar Murwin) of Starke; and many great aunts, uncles, cousins, loved ones and friends.
A Celebration of Life was held on Wednesday, July 26, at Archer-Milton Funeral Home in Lake Butler Florida with Rev. Johnny Frampton officiating. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to the GoFundMe for a headstone and other arrangement costs.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
Joseph Shuler
Joseph “Joe” A. Shuler went to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, July 16, 2023, at his residence in Brooker surrounded by his cherished family. Born on April 26, 1959, in Gainesville to Audie and Shirley Shuler, he possessed an indomitable spirit that resonated with all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He dedicated a significant portion of his life in service to his country as a proud member of the United States Army. He served for four years, including a tour in Korea. Following his honorable military service, he attended the University of Florida, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. He then embarked on a distinguished career spanning 35 remarkable years with the Department of Corrections. Beyond his professional achievements, he was known for his vivacious personality and endearing character. Outgoing by nature, he effortlessly gravitated towards creating meaningful connections wherever he went. Friends sought solace in the genuineness of his friendship while strangers became fast friends under his warmth and openness. He never turned down an opportunity to travel. Whether it was a cross-country or international trip, he enjoyed seeing new places and experiencing new adventures. He was a devoted family man and a long-time member of Sardis Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his father, Audie Shuler; and wife, Terri Fraser Shuler.
He leaves behind to cherish his memories his wife, Dana Dyal Shuler of Brooker; mother, Shirley Shuler of Gainesville; children, Jeremy (Brittney) Shuler of Seattle, Washington, Zeke (Sunshine) Scaff of Worthington Springs, Christopher (Terra Godwin) Shuler of Worthington Springs, and Hannah Scaff (Jonathan Taylor) of Brooker; his three beautiful grandchildren: Jayden, Carson, and Elliana; his siblings, Elizabeth Shuler and Richard (Dottie) Shuler; and a host of extended family and friends.
On Friday, July 21, a funeral service was held at Sardis Baptist Church, after which he will be laid to rest at Elzey Chapel Cemetery with military honors. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to one of the following, Moffitt Cancer Center for pancreatic cancer research atgive.moffitt.org; Haven Hospice at beourhaven.org; or Autism Speaks autismspeaks.org.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Xander Vanzant
Xander Dwayne Vanzant, 20, of Lawtey passed away Friday, July 21, 2023, in Kentucky from injuries he sustained in an automobile accident. He was born Jan. 28, 2003, in Gainesville to Donald Vanzant and Shondee (Lewis) Vanzant. He graduated from Bradford High School with the Class of 2021. He moved to Louisville, Kentucky and began his apprentice with Norfolk Southern Railroad as a switchman. He loved Jeeps, fast cars and playing in the mud, riding side-by- side ATVs and 4-wheelers. He also enjoyed fishing and hanging out with his family and friends.
He leaves behind parents Donnie (Renee) Vanzant of Lawtey and Shondee (Lewis) Vanzant of Lake Butler; siblings, Ashtyn (Kendallyn) Lewis and Breianna (Dean) Vanzant all of Starke, Todd Stenner III and Ryan Potter of Hampton, along with Lauryn Potter of Keystone Heights. Also left behind are his grandparents, Rosemary (Dwayne) Vanzant, Eddie Lewis, and Glenda Lewis all of Starke and Christy (Ronnie) Harper of Keystone Heights. Also left behind are a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members and friends that will not only miss him but will miss his beautiful and contagious smile.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, July 25, at the First Baptist Church with Pastor Michael Conner officiating. Interment will follow at Lawtey Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke, 32091. 904-964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
