James Bryant
James “Jim” Thomas Bryant passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, with his loving family by his side. He was born on May 3, 1944, in Heflin, Alabama to Jasper and Virginia Bryant. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Mary “Libby” Bryant of Brooker; daughter, Pam (Robert) Johnson of LaCrosse; granddaughter, Macey Johnson; siblings, Helen Childers, Arthur (Diane) Bryant, and Jimmy E. Bryant. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, John David; brother-in-law, Les Childers; and nephew, Vince Childers. He loved his siblings, nieces and nephews and remained very close to his family in Alabama and Florida. He was a man of integrity and honor. He proudly served two terms in the United States Army, stationed in Germany and Korea. He was a paratrooper and loved the thrill of jumping out of planes and flying. He retired from ITT Rayonier and Alachua County Public Works as district supervisor. He was fearless! He was a cave diver and ocean diver, coming face to face with sharks on many occasions. He and a long-term friend established a dive charter business for several years. He obtained his sea captain’s license, which he was very proud of. There was no limit to his tenacity for danger and adventure. He was an avid reader and eager to increase his knowledge, no matter the topic. He especially loved history. He also had a passion for restoring antique cars and a love for listening to all genres of music, from Pavarotti to Cajun! Anyone who knew him knew how much his loved the Alabama Crimson Tide. He could talk endlessly about his team and Bear Bryant.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 26, at Brooker Baptist Church in honor of his life. Visitation will be held at 10 a.m. followed by a service at 11 a.m. Interment will be at Dedan Cemetery, Brooker.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Dallas Crawford
Dallas Lamar Crawford, 79, of Lawtey, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 19, 2023, at Lake City VA Medical Center. He was born in Lawtey on April 12, 1944, to the late Dallas Ray Crawford and Dorothy Crawford. He was a lifelong resident of Lawtey. Shortly after high school, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he proudly served our country for four years. Following his honorable discharge from the military, he started his career as a correctional officer, where he worked at both Florida State Prison and Union Correctional Instituttion, with 45 years of service. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing golf and watching football. He was an avid FSU Seminole and Dallas Cowboys fan. More than anything, he loved his family and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by all who know him. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Ray and Dot Crawford; brothers, Ronnie and David Crawford.
He is survived by his loving wife, Janice Crawford of Starke; children, Dallas L. Crawford II, Michael Crawford, Courtney Crawford, Craig Crawford, Colby Crawford, Calena Crawford, Ernest Steven Varnes, Evertte Varnes; brothers, Ray (Joyce) Crawford of Lake Butler, Jeffery (Sherry) Crawford of Starke, Red (Penny) Crawford of Penny Farms; sister, Loretta (Gene) Ross of Starke; grandchildren, Dallas Lamar Crawford III, Katelynn Crawford, Breonna Crawford, Brittany Crawford, Michael Crawford II, Amanda Sheppard, Teanna Ziegenfuss, Brodi Rosier, Jorden Rosier, Destiny Varnes, Cody Varnes; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 26, at 2 p.m. at Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel with Pastor Lester Austin officiating. Interment will follow at Dyal Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12:30 p.m. until 2 p.m. on Friday, May 25, 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
Jimmie Douglass
Jimmie Dryden Douglass, 82, of Science Hill, Kentucky, passed from this life on Friday, March 24, 2023, at his home. He was born on Nov. 8, 1940, to the late James Elijah Douglass and Elsie Marie Lindsey Douglass in Jacksonville. He enjoyed traveling and looking at road sights. He loved being in the United States Air Force and coaching little league football. Most of all he loved being a husband and Dad. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Elsie Douglass; and brother, Henry M. Douglass.
He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his wife, Clover Douglass; son, James Christopher Douglass of Atlanta, Georgia; daughters, Dawn Elizabeth Douglass of Florence, Kentucky, and Kimberly Carlson of Tampa; and grandchildren, Landen Douglass, Jacob Douglass and Sara Carlson.
A graveside service will be held at Mount Zion Cemetery at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 3 in his hometown of Lake Butler.
Archer Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.
PAID OBITUARY
Mary Rothstein
Mary Kathleen “Kathy” Hagglund Rothstein passed away peacefully on Monday, May 22, 2023, at the age of 56. She was born in Gainesville on Nov. 18, 1966, to Carl and Pat Hagglund of Keystone Heights. She graduated from Keystone Heights High School in 1984 and went on to obtain a degree from the University of Florida. The simplest pleasures brought her the greatest joy; such as times with family and friends, hosting ladies’ luncheons at her home, attending her daughter’s, niece’s and nephew’s activities and events, and volunteering her time to many organizations. She loved animals, but especially cats. She has been a volunteer at many animal rescues over the years.
She is survived by her loving husband of 25 years, Marc Rothstein; daughter, Kailee Madison; mother, Pat Hagglund; brother, Carl (Cindy) Hagglund Jr.; sisters, Debbie (Tommy) Piper and Cindy (Tim) Loose; and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, May 26, at 10 a.m. at Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights, 32656. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Twisted Oaks Rescue Inc, 7655 Monongahela Ave, Keystone Heights, FL. 32656, 262-623-7331(text).
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Keystone Heights, 352-473-3176 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Ronald Harper Jr.
Ronald E. Harper, Jr., 57, of Keystone Heights passed away Thursday, May 18, 2023, in Jacksonville following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born Dec. 15, 1965, in Starke and graduated with the Class of 1983 from Keystone Heights High School. Following graduation, he began his career with Clay Electric Cooperative, working his way to line supervisor before retiring. He attended Gadara Baptist Church and had a passion for being outdoors hunting or fishing. He was also known as being an excellent cook, and a mentor to many, but mostly a great friend to all. He was one you could always depend on, and his family was his number-one priority.
He leaves behind his loving wife of nearly 37 years, Jill (Eland) Harper of Keystone Heights; their two daughters, Morgan Harper (Dan) Bader of Chicago and Erika Harper of Jacksonville; and parents, Diane (Bill) Nettles and Ronald (Christy) Harper Sr., all of Keystone Heights. He was lovingly called “Gramps” by his grandson, Luke. Also left behind are several aunts, uncles, numerous cousins, and a host of additional family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
The family received friends on Monday, May 22, at Trinity Baptist Church. Funeral services were held Tuesday, May 23 at Trinity Baptist Church with Pastor Shawn House officiating. Interment was private at Gadara Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to the American Cancer Society.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights, 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Janette Harvey
Mrs. Janette Penney Harvey, 96 died Wednesday, May 10, 2023, in Starke. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James Harvey.
Survivors include their two children, Virginia Viau of Medway, Massachusetts and John Harvey of Sterling, Connecticut.
A graveside memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 27, at 11 a.m. at Keystone Heights Cemetery.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights, 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
Cosette Howard
Mrs. Cosette Kerce Howard, 73, of Graham, passed away Sunday, May 21, 2023, at HCA Florida North Florida Hospital following an extended illness. She was born on April 16, 1950, in Lake Butler to Benjamin and Sarah (Alexander) Kerce and was a lifelong area resident. She was a godly lady and attended Sampson City Church of God prior to her declining health and never failed to watch Trinity Church in Deltona online. She was a true homemaker, enjoying taking care of her family, cooking, canning, and freezing fruits and vegetables, often from her own garden. She was an expert seamstress and made many wedding gowns for family and friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Michael Thomas Howard; siblings, Bobby Fulgham, Ida Sue Schmidt, Genell Alexander, Bob “Cooter” Kerce, and Bennie Jo “B.J.” Warwick.
Survivors are children, Michelle (Jamie) Jones of De Bary, and Misti (Philip) Brooks of Starke; siblings, Jeanette Abbott of Tampa, Sharon Smith of Starke, Donald (Gail) Kerce of Melrose, and Jerry “Buddy” Kerce of Starke. She was lovingly called “Nana” by grandchildren, Kristen (Armando) Alvarez, James (Alexis) Jones, Joshua Jones (Kristi Ferraro), Colton Taylor (Krislyn Stubbs), Chance Taylor, and Makayla Taylor; along with great-grandchildren, Braxton, Ember, Sunnie, Scarlett, Judah, Benaiah, Maverick, and two more on the way.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, May 25, with her son-in-law Pastor Jamie Jones, officiating. Interment will be at Rock Primitive Baptist Church 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
Richard Rogers
Richard Rogers, 87, of Starke died peacefully on Monday, April 24, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Newburyport, Massachusetts in 1936 to Helen (Babe) and Stanley Rogers. After his many years traveling the world while in the U.S. Navy, he settled in Jacksonville. Soon after, he took a position with the State of Florida, Department of Corrections and relocated to Starke. He was our hero, our rock! He was the most “present” father, grandfather, and great-grandfather a man could be. Always participating and showing up for our life’s events, the good ones and the bad ones. He supported us all, taught us all and loved us all. He was outnumbered by having all daughters, but somehow he managed to stay sane. He loved this country, serving in the Navy for 23 years. And then went on to work for the State Department of Corrections for another 22 years. He was a huge supporter of the NRA and, if you had a question about a gun, he was the person to ask. He loved traveling the United States and seeing the historical sites. Our father was the best friend to many, always helping anyone. He was truly a great man. He was preceded in death by his loving and devoted wife of 40 years, Kaletyo Rogers, whom he adored.
He is survived by his four daughters, Terri Sewell, Tamara Thiels, Shelley (David) Williams, and Kelli (Troy) Suits; eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Service and interment will take place at Jacksonville Memorial Cemetery at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the NRA in memory of Richard.
PAID OBITUARY
Barbara Schnichels
Barbara Ann Schnichels, 79, of Alachua passed away Friday, May 12, 2023. She was born Nov. 22, 1943, in Trenton to Clyde and Florence Parrish. She enjoyed gardening, baking, shopping and spending time with her family. She was an avid Gators fan and a member of Hague United Methodist Church. She also loved her two dogs, Missy and Tebow.
She is survived by her husband of 37 years, Ray Schnichels; daughters, Ronda Petersen and Crissy (Robert) Wheeler; sons, Clint (Sharon) Hamilton, and Clay (Debbie) Hamilton; grandchildren, Tara, Nicholas, Cade, Camryn, Kayley, Garison and Madison; great- grandchildren, Kaylin and Hadley; stepchildren, Kim (Dan) McDonald, Lisa (Brian) Ronan, Raymond Schnichels Jr. and Rob (Brenda) Schnichels; and grandchildren, Justine, Alyssa, McKenna, Taylor, Peyton, Tyler and Jack.
A memorial service will be held Friday, May 19, at 3 p.m. at Hague United Methodist Church with Pastor Keith Elliot officiating. Interment will follow in Hague Cemetery. Those who wish may make a memorial contribution to Hague United Methodist Church, 7001 N.W. 126th Ave. Gainesville, 32653 Please visit her memorial page at www.williamsthomasfuneralhome.com.
For further information contact Williams-Thomas Downtown 352-376-7556.
PAID OBITUARY
Elizabeth Stubbs
Elizabeth “Betty” Ellen Morris Stubbs of Keystone Heights went to be with her Lord on Thursday, May 18, 2023, at the age of 96. She was born in Hatboro, Pennsylvania to the late Robert W. Morris and Elizabeth McCarthy Morris of County Cork, Ireland. She graduated from Hatboro High School in Pennsylvania and, upon moving to Jacksonville with her military husband in 1951, she earned an Associate in Arts Degree in journalism from Florida Junior College of Jacksonville. She went on to work at the Naval Air Station, where she was secretary to the Officer in Charge of the Naval Schools Group, retiring in 1981. For most of those years, she carpooled with her husband, who was stationed there with the Navy. She unexpectedly lost her husband, Clyde Stubbs, who served in the United States Navy for 30 years, on Thanksgiving Day, 1971 at their home on Bolt Lake in Keystone Heights. He had been awaiting his retirement date as AMCS at the time. After retiring from the Naval Air station in 1981, Betty moved permanently to the lake house in Keystone Heights. She later came out of retirement and went to work as a reporter for the Lake Region Monitor for 10 years, alongside her daughter, Lesley Peters, who served as editor. She also later worked as a reporter for the Clay Today newspaper in Orange Park. She became active in civic affairs in Keystone Heights, often attending city council meetings, during which time she served as Publicity Chairman for the Our Country Day festivities, as well as other areas of service to the city. In 1990, Betty, along with Lucille Starnes, the wife of former Keystone Heights Mayor Ray Starnes, Keystone City Councilwoman Kitty McClave, and Patricia Williams met at Kitty’s house and decided the town needed a place for seniors to meet socially. Thus was born the Singles Club of Keystone Heights. The Singles Club is still thriving today as the Keystone Heights Social Club. Though all four founders are now deceased, Betty remained a “lifetime member” until her death. She was recognized in 2014 as a loyal 30-year member of American Legion #202. In 1986, several members of the Legion decided there were enough veterans in the area to support two veterans’ organizations and subsequently, AMVETS Post #86 was established. She was recognized as being significantly active and influential in helping local veterans set up and establish the new post, assisting them with publicity and later helping to set up the Ladies Auxiliary that still exists today. She served two terms as president and many years as Auxiliary Secretary. During her time as secretary, she established a successful Junior AMVETS Program, where young members regularly visited nursing homes in the area, bringing gifts and love to those who lived there. The president of the Junior AMVETS of Post 86, 10-year-old Meghan Gabel of Keystone Heights, was named Junior AMVET of the Year by state officers in 1988. She later went on to serve as Florida State Hospital Chairman for two terms and was lauded for her success programs. She was a 30-year member of the American Legion, a Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and a Life Member of the AMVETS. She was also a member of the Fleet Reserve. She faithfully attended St. William Catholic Church in Keystone Heights. She was a jubilant participant in bingo at the AMVETS and her chair remains well guarded at the post. She will be missed dearly and remembered warmly as someone who fiercely loved her family and her community. She never missed an opportunity to tell you she loved you and was proud of you and she meant it. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clyde Everett Stubbs; and her beloved daughter, Lesley Ann Stubbs Peters.
She is survived by her sister, Helen Kelly; two daughters, Christine Thompson and Kimberly Dugger; her son, Commander (retired USN) Curtis David (Jennifer) Stubbs; granddaughters, Kerry Thompson, Cassidy Galbraith Wilson, and Meghan Gabel; grandsons, Connor and Harrison Stubbs, Matthew Galbraith, Kasey Gabel, and Paul Norris; great-granddaughters, Hailee Gabel, Adelyn Wilson, and Natalie Wilson; and great-great- grandchildren, Oliver, Anna, and Riley Gabel.
A funeral service was held at St. William Catholic Church on Wednesday, May 24 at 11 a.m., followed by burial at the Keystone Heights Cemetery.
Arrangements were under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights, 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
