Lee Bass
STARKE Lee Andrews Bass “Iggy Piggy”, 70, of Starke, died on Wednesday, November 3, 2021 at the University of Florida Shands Hospital in Gainesville. A lifelong resident of Starke, he was of the Christian faith. He attended the local schools of Bradford County. He retired from E.I De Nemours Dupont. He was a coach for Oldtimes Basketball in addition to the Tigerettes Softball Team.
He is survived by: his son, Christopher Thomas; daughters, Sharri Bass Kelly, Adrana Jackson, Carmen Bass Eiland, Natalya Cruger and Ashley Bass; brothers; James Bass Sr., O’neil Bass, Barry Simmons and Isaac Simmons; sisters, Mary Clark, LaVon Simmons, Lorain Hamilton, Katherine Harris and Sadie Thomas, 17 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 13, in the Truevine Outreach Ministries Church 422 St. Clair Street Starke, with Min. Edward Hamilton, Eulogist. Interment will be held at Oddfellow Cemetery in Starke, under the direction of Haile Funeral Home Inc 802 North Oak Street Starke 904-964-7905. Visitation will be held on Friday, Nov. 12, at the Carl D. Haile Memorial Chapel/Haile Funeral Home Inc for friends from 4 p.m. until to 5 p.m. There will also be a viewing at the Truevine Outreach Ministries Church on Saturday, Nov 13, one hour prior to the service. Masks are required for the visitation at the funeral home and also at the funeral service.
Rodney Carmichael
BROOKER Rodney “Bones” Lee Carmichael, 61, of Brooker passed away at his home Monday, November 1, 2021. He was born September 23, 1960, in Miami, to Johnath Gilbert and Norma (Williams) Carmichael and served in the Army National Guard. Rodney worked in the repair and maintenance field for several years with Bradford County Telegraph. He was a Christian and attended Madison Street Baptist Church of Starke and Church of God of Prophecy in Palatka. He enjoyed fishing, woodworking in his shop and mostly hanging out with the people he loved. He was preceded in death by his father.
Survivors are: his two children, Rodney (Christi) Carmichael of Starke and Christina (Chad) Branford of Ft. McCoy; his mother, Norma (Jim) Williams of Hampton; and three siblings, Kenny (Ashley) Carmichael of Interlachen, Wade (Lori) Carmichael of Texas, and Darlene (Steve) Douglass of Starke. He was lovingly called “papa” by three precious grandchildren, Kevin Carmichael, Zander Branford, and Jameson Branford.
A Celebration of Life for Rodney will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, the 13 day of Nov. at Madison Street Baptist Church with Pastor Richard Cason officiating.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-GallagherFuneral Home, 620 East Nona Street, Starke. (904) 964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Kathryn Glancy
STARKE Kathryn (Katy) Glancy died Thursday, November 4, 2021, at the age of 64, after a brief and courageous struggle with pneumonia. Katy was born at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan on June 4, 1957, and at the time of her death was a resident at Riverwood Health & Rehabilitation Center in Starke.
Katy lived in Michigan until the age of eleven, at which time she moved with her family to Naples, where she enjoyed fishing, participation in Special Olympics, bowling, dancing, and performing in plays. Her very favorite things included money, food, babies, and animals. For most of her adult life she was also able to participate in workshops for developmentally disabled adults. At the age of 38, Katy moved to Starke, where she lived on her own and received care and assistance from New Perceptions, an agency that served developmentally disabled adults in living independent and productive lives. The family is grateful to New Perceptions and Riverwood for taking such special care of Katy. Katy will be greatly missed by not only her family but also by those who knew and loved her throughout her life.
Funeral services will be private, and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Haven Hospice, the Alzheimer’s Association, or a charity of your choice. Please visit her memorial page at www.williamsthomasfuneralhome.com.
For Further information Williams-Thomas Funeral Home Downtown 352-376-7556.
PAID OBITUARY
Sharon Knapp
KEYSTONE HEIGHTS Sharon Frances (Meyer) Knapp of Keystone Heights died on Wednesday, November 3, 2021 at North Florida Regional Medical Hospital in Gainesville. Mrs. Knapp was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota on Friday, April 30, 1943 to the late Arnold and Beatrice (Wrobel) Meyer. She was a homemaker and a faithful member of Freedom Baptist Church.
Survivors include: her husband of 60 years, David Knapp of Keystone Heights; daughters, Tammy Kihlstadius and Kelly Forehand both of Keystone Heights; son, Jack Knapp of Jacksonville; sisters, Elizabeth and Katherine; brother, Zachary; 12 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren.
Private services will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home 340 E. Walker Dr. Keystone Heights. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
Jerome Naquin
LAKE BUTLER Jerome Joseph Naquin, age 61, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 27, 2021, with his family by his side. A long time resident of Lake Butler, Jerry was known as “Doc” to his many friends. Always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need, he opened his home and his heart to many over the years. Jerry had an adventurous spirit, loved to travel, and was always up for a good time. Jerry was born to Margaret Ann Volker and Norbert Charles Naquin on January 3, 1960, and grew up in Long Beach, California. He was preceded in death, by his parents; and his brothers, Norbert Naquin, Paul Naquin, Duane Naquin, and Lloyd Naquin.
He is survived by his sisters, Cynthia Coccia, Marie Sunseri, and Jennifer Miller; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank all who stopped by to share their loving memories of Jerry and the good times they shared. There will be no formal services at this time. Internment will be with his family in New Orleans, Louisiana.
PAID OBITUARY
Marjorie Richardson
STARKE Marjorie “Margie” Holmes Richardson, 78, native and lifelong resident of Starke, peacefully entered the sunset of life on Wednesday, November 3, 2021 at Haven Hospice E.T. York Care Center, Gainesville. The daughter of Eddie L. Holmes, Sr. and Ellen Isabella (Chandler) Holmes, she was born on Saturday, November 7, 1942. Marjorie was educated in the Bradford County School District. After graduating from high school, she earned her Licensed Practical Nurse and Certified Nursing Certificates. Margie served as an LPN and CNA from 1979 to 2004 in Pinellas, Polk, and Bradford counties. She was a member of True Vine Ministries. She truly enjoyed assisting people with solving problems, singing, and watching classic movies. She appreciated nature, loved to spend time in solitude and witnessing about the love of Christ to others. Margie was preceded in eternal rest by her parents, Eddie L. Holmes, Sr., and Ellen Isabella Chandler Holmes; maternal grandparents, Rev. Captain Early (Sally) Chandler; paternal grandparents, West (Minerva) Holmes; sisters, Joyce Reddish, Tangela Holmes, Camelia Holmes; brothers, Robert Green, Jean Holmes, and Gerald J. Simmons; aunt, Annie Bell, Altamease, Ada, Henrietta Chandler, Susie Ellis, Lillie M. Riley, Mary and Ella Holmes; uncles, Frank, Harrington, Edmond, Henry, Elzie, Clifford Chandler; Rufus Riley, Chuck Anderson Lonzo and Lemon Holmes.
She leaves to cherish her memories: husband, Robert L. “Bobby” Richardson, Jr., Starke; daughters, Jacqueline “Jackie” (Melvin) Randall, Claudette McKnight, Rochelle Davis; sisters, Andrenna Hamilton, Lorie (Edward) Collins, Kimberly (Omar) Giscombe, Riva Holmes, Katie Lawrence, Diane Reddish; surrogate sister, Willie Mae Getter; brothers, Eddie L. (Leola) Holmes, Jr., Rev. Dr. Ronald (Shirley) Strong, Rev. Willie R. (Jeanie) Strong, Randi (Marie) Holmes, Ryan (Chantel) Holmes, Edwin Holmes, Corey Holmes, Kevin (Andrea) Holmes, Lorne (Gladys) Holmes; brother-in-law, Joseph (Ruby) Richardson; sister-in law, Celest Trotman; aunt, Dora Anderson; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins; godchildren, James Davis and Alicia West; special friends of the family, Shirley Collins, Bruce Sanders, Mary Cummings, Yolanda Hankerson, Velma Chandler, Jeremiah Johnson and Vicky Holiday; caregivers, Shronda Allen, Ida Wright; and numerous other relatives and friends.
Public viewing will be from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. with Homegoing Celebration commencing at 10 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 13 at True Vine Outreach Ministry, 422 St. Clair Street, Starke, Elder Ross Chandler, Senior Pastor, and Rev. Richard Chandler, eulogist. Interment will be at Oddfellow-Clark Cemetery. Online condolences: www.flaggserenitychapel.com.
Arrangements entrusted to the care of Karl N. Flagg Serenity Memorial Chapel, 2400 Madison Street, Palatka.
PAID OBITUARY
Barbara Robinson
WALDO Barbara Brown Robinson, age 71, passed away on November 2, 2021, at North Florida Regional Medical Center in Gainesville. Ms. Robinson was born on July 8, 1950, to the late James and Ellis Jordan Brown in Branford. Her family was her whole world, and she spent most of her life taking care of them. Ms. Robinson was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Waldo. In her spare time, she enjoyed playing bingo and watching scary movies and always enjoyed a good cup of coffee. Ms. Robinson is preceded in death by her parents.
Ms. Robinson is survived by her sons, Robert (Amanda) Robinson and Virgil Robinson both of Gainesville; her grandchildren, Andrew, Haley, and Amber Robinson; and great-granddaughter, Della Robinson.
A graveside service for Ms. Robinson will be held at 11a.m. on Monday, Nov. 8, at Fairbanks Cemetery in Gainesville. Pastor Jim DeBois will be officiating the service.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler.386-496-2008
www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
James Rumph
LAKE BUTLER James Lewis Rumph, age 81, of Lake Butler, Florida passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 4, 2021, at his home. Mr. Rumph was born on August 26, 1940, in Lakeland to the late Bernard and Ellen Johns Rumph. He worked with the City of Jacksonville as a plumbing supervisor until his retirement. In 2005, he and his wife, Barbara, moved from Jacksonville Beach to Lake Butler where they enjoyed country living and retirement. He enjoyed working on model train sets and was an active member of the Union County Friends of the Library and Union County Historical Society. He was preceded in death by his parents; and wife of 60 years, Barbara Bennett Rumph.
Mr. Rumph is survived by his daughter, Laura Rumph of Tallahassee.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Union County Friends of the Library, 250 Southeast 5th Ave., Lake Butler, FL 32054.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com.
PAID OBITUARY
John Sirmones
JACKSONVILLE John B. Sirmones was born August 23, 1945, in Jacksonville to the late Mr. and Mrs. James E. Sirmones of Jacksonville. On Friday, October 29, 2021, at the age of 76 years old, God made the sovereign decision to call him home. As a young adult, John submitted his life to Christ in which he was ordained and served as a Deacon in the Ministry. John was gainfully employed his entire life, but for the past 12 years he was an employee of Xpress Global. Later in life, he furthered his education and was always a great provider. John was the second eldest child of 15 siblings and was married to Wanda J. Jones on March 30, 1984 (37 years); they remained married until death. From their union three beautiful children were born. John was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; one sister; son, Daniell Sirmones; and daughter, Michelle Sirmones.
John B. Sirmones leaves to cherish fond memories: his loving wife, Wanda Sirmones; John (Lucille) Sirmones, Jr. Michael Sirmones, Nina (Chester) Sirmones , Lawanna Sirmones, all reside in Jacksonville; and Andrea Sirmones. He also leaves behind 15 grands, three great-grands, five brothers, six sisters, and a host of nieces and nephews.
A Homegoing Celebration for John was held on Saturday, Nov. 6 at the Union County High School Auditorium.
Arrangements were under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, LakeButler.386-486-2008
www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Charles Walters
GAINESVILLE Reverend Charles “Lynwood” Walters died peacefully at home on Monday, November 2, 2021 at the age of 76 after a battle with cancer. Lynwood resided in Gainesville, with his love for over 51 years, Brenda, and their loyal cat, Taj. The couple has two children, Rob (Cori), who lives in Savannah, Georgia, and Mandy (Vivi Poit), who live in Frankfurt, Germany.
Lynwood’s story began in Dublin, Georgia, on September 26, 1945. He was a middle child of a school teacher, Margaret Peek, and known affectionately by his three siblings – Katharine, Dee, and Terry – as the family jokester. He made his profession of faith at age nine and was baptized before moving to Starke when his mother remarried. Following his pole vault record at Bradford High, he attended Furman University on track & field and gymnastics scholarships. He then went to seminary at Wake Forest and met his future bride, Brenda. He had such meager funds as a student that he initially proposed to Brenda with a soda pop top and carrot ring” Brenda still said yes (though he eventually replaced that “ring” with a proper engagement ring). Lynwood impacted many lives as a minister in Danville and Martinsville, Virginia; Greenville, Ayden, and Wilson, North Carolina; and Gainesville. His humor was always present as he supported people on their spiritual journeys. On youth and senior group outings, he was known to stop the van as they passed cemeteries and yell, “people are just dying to get in there!” Through his mid-50s, he did handstands during the worship service when there were records in Sunday school attendance. A meaningful moment in his personal spiritual journey was attending the Academy for Spiritual Formation, which allowed his faith to deepen and evolve. Shortly after, he became a hospice chaplain and served around 500 people and their families at the end of life. In his last sermon, he shared lessons for the living from the dying, including the need for authenticity, honesty, and relationships. He said, “I have not heard any patient say to me, “I wish I had worked harder, made more money, or spent more time at the office.” Those nearing the end of their lives often assess their priorities. They have been my teacher about living.” Years later, he was humbled to be supported by hospice as his cancer progressed. Lynwood was proud of his family. Brenda dedicated her 45-year teaching career to children with special needs. Rob is a black hawk pilot for the US Army, and Mandy works in the US Department of State Foreign Service. Lynwood was a proud “pop” to Jackson, Jameson, and many furry grandchildren. Before Mandy moved to India, her dad gave her Anne Lamott’s book and told her, “Traveling mercies” or in other words,”. . . love the journey, God is with you, come home safe and sound. Brenda, Rob, and Mandy were with Lynwood on his final journey “home” where he no doubt was greeted by his creator and those who went before him: his and Brenda’s first daughter, Tamara Lynn; his loving parents, Margaret and Jimmy Peek; his dear friends and spiritual advisors; and the family’s many pets.
A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church Gainesville on Sunday, Nov. 7, at 2 p.m. To reunite with the Earth, Lynwood chose Prairie Creek Conservation Cemetery as his final resting place. Instead of flowers, the family suggests donations in his honor at the Academy for Spiritual Formation, Prairie Creek Conservation Cemetery, Community Hospice Gainesville, or FBC Gainesville.
PAID OBITUARY
Veda Willis
WORTHINGTON SPRINGS Veda Dupree Willis of Worthington Springs passed away peacefully at Windsor Health and Rehab in Starke on Monday, November 1, 2021, at the age of 92. Veda was born in Tampa on October 3, 1929, to Jennings and Mana Stephens Dupree but lived most of her life in Alachua. On August 12, 1947, Veda married the love of her life, Lemuel Willis. She was a farmer’s wife and worked for Pantry Pride for over 20 years before her retirement in the early 1980s. Veda enjoyed retirement with her husband until his passing in 1984. She has lived the last nine years in Worthington Springs with her daughter, Joyce. Veda is preceded in death by her parents; husband; and two grandchildren, Kevin and Travis Funderburk.
Veda is survived by: her children, Joyce E. (Robert, Sr.) Funderburk and Lemuel Glen (Margie) Willis; her grandchildren, Robert L. (B.J.) Funderburk, Jr. and Lemuel G. (Summer) Willis, Jr.; great-grandchildren, Samantha J. (Jared) Moates, Tabitha Artley, Timothy (Ashley) Odom, Thresa Assink, and Duane Willingham; great-great-grandchildren, Skyler, Jaylynn, and Tinsley Moates, Lexi and Timothy Jr. Odom, and Rylie Canon; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A graveside service for Ms. Veda was held on Thursday, Nov. 4, at St. Johns Cemetery in Alachua. Service was officiated by Rev. Beaver Twist.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com.
PAID OBITURARY
Eugene Wiszowaty
LAKE BUTLER Eugene A. Wiszowaty II, 63, of Lake Butler, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, November 6, 2021 surrounded by his family. Eugene was born in Chicago, Illinois to Eugene I and Anna Wiszowaty (Walus) on August 24, 1958. Eugene grew up in the town of Sauk Village, Illinois. He attended elementary school and middle school there before going to Columbia Military Academy, in Columbia, Tennessee. Upon returning home from Columbia Military Academy he began working as a laborer installing and repairing garage doors. He later began a 30+ year career in security. He ended up spending 28 years working defense contractor, Northrop Grumman in the Chicagoland area. He loved spending time with family and friends watching sports, and grilling. He had a passion for fishing, fast cars, and his grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene I and Anna Wiszowaty; and his brother, John Wiszowaty.
He is survived by the love of his life of 46 years, Katherine Wiszowaty (Theisen); his daughter, Angela (Jason) Griffis; his son, Eugene Wiszowaty III; his grandchildren, Ella and Writ Griffis, all of Lake Butler; brothers, Jim (Kathy), Paul, Robert, and Joseph (Stacey); sisters, Ann Oprondek (David), and Alice; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
A visitation will be held at Archer-Milton Funeral Home on Friday, Nov. 12, at 1 p.m.. He will be laid to rest at Elzey Chapel Cemetery immediately following the service.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. 386-496-2008
PAID OBITUARY
