Lila Barber
Lila Barber was called home to be with her Lord and Savior, Sunday, Sept. 3, 2023. She was born at home in Worthington Springs. She thought on Feb. 9, 1936, but had to change the date to Feb. 10, 1936, to match her vehicle operator license due to a Social Security error. She traveled and worked at various Department of Corrections institutions as her husband was promoting. She is known by the affectionate nickname “Monkey” that her grandchildren, family, and work locations gave her. She spent many years working for Lake Butler Elementary School, where the name “Monkey” continued. She lost her first husband, Tom Dowling, in 1979 and found Ted Barber at the Livestock Market Restaurant in Gainesville. The two married on Nov. 11, 1982, at Sardis Baptist Church and were blessed to have 41 years together. Her first love was the Lord God, and she treasured her family! The cookie jar was always full, and soft drinks were available. She put family first and her greatest regret was that her illness would take her away from being able to care for the family. She loved her Order of the Eastern Star and even served as Worthy Matron of the Lake Butler Chapter Number 40 many times. She served as the Grand Representative to Idaho and enjoyed that honor. She loved Sardis Baptist Church and all the members. She and Tom had two children, Dennis, and Denise Dowling Anderson. Ted and his first wife, Frances Kirkpatrick, had Ted Jr. and Jennifer Shumway. And together, Ted and Lila were blessed to have 11 grand and 14 great-grandchildren. Ted wants all to work at thinking, saying, and doing what honors the Lord. And he knows he is “too blessed to be stressed.”
A service to honor her was held Wednesday, Sept. 6, at Sardis Baptist Church. The family received friends for a visitation prior to the service. She was laid to rest immediately following the service at Elzey Chapel Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Lake Butler Chapter #40, Order of the Eastern Star, PO Box 643, Lake Butler 32054.
Arrangements were under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Elizabeth Blevins
Elizabeth Croft Blevins of Lulu passed away peacefully at Haven Hospice in Lake City on Friday, Sept. 8, 2023. She was born to James B. Carter Sr. and Juanita Gilley Carter on Feb. 5, 1934, at their home in Dixie County. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed gardening and dancing and was a lifelong student, thinking it was never too late to learn. Among the many courses she took in her life were Cosmetology, Student Practical Nurse, Registered Medical Assistant and Block Mason, even though she never laid a block! While she avoided titles, she was a licensed preacher and pastor for five years at The United Church of Jesus Christ of Apostolic Pentecostal Faith Inc. that she helped found with five other members. She was passionate about spreading the word of God, even appearing on the Christian Broadcasting Network on the “Amazing Grace” program. In her lifetime she attended several churches of many denominations, spreading the Good News. According to several of her children, grandchildren, relatives and friends, her influence on them led them to seek their salvation. Among her many other talents were songwriting and singing. She belonged to a singing group that traveled around singing at different events. She would spend many hours in studying the Bible. She compiled information that she had planned to turn into a book, explaining the oneness way. However, her eyesight became too poor to continue this endeavor. She was married to Delbert H Croft Sr. for 43 years together, they raised five children, Martha Tilton, Jane (Louis) Hess, Delbert H. (Sherry) Croft Jr., Alan Croft and Alisa (James) Maddux. She had 19 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great-grandchildren. Later in life, she found love again and married Carl Blevins, and they were married for 18 years. She was so happy to have Carl to share the rest of her life. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Barbara Jean Alford (3/23/1952); husband, Delbert H. Croft Sr, (9/8/1995); grandsons, William B. “Scooter” Jackson (12/30/21), Robert Samuel (10/20/18) and Jon Eric Sanders (9/6/03); and granddaughter, Ariel Bonnie Croft (7/6/07).
A service to honor her was held Tuesday, Sept. 12, at Archer-Milton Funeral Home. The family received friends for a visitation prior to the service. She was laid to rest immediately following the service at the New Beginnings Apostolic Church Cemetery in Lulu. A meal was provided after the services. Pastor Larry Carmody officiated the services.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Robert Brice
Robert John Brice, 78, of Lawtey, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023, at his daughter’s residence, with his loving family by his side. He was born in Syracuse, New York on March 28, 1945, to the late Arnold Clarence Brice Sr. and Marian Louise Brice. He was raised in Monticello, New York and relocated to Bradford County as a teenager. Early in life, he helped his father work on automobiles, which was a passion that continued throughout his life. He loved being a mechanic and used his mechanical skills to help many folks who were less fortunate. After graduating from Bradford High School, he enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served for four years. During his time of service, he started dating his best friend and forever companion, Wordna Virginia Prevatt, and they were happily married in 1963. Following his honorable discharge, he drove semi-trucks for a short season until starting his longtime career with the Department of Corrections. He dedicated 41 years with the department and retired on June 30, 2000, from Lawtey Correctional Institution as a sergeant and assistant food director. He was filled with life, and he brought smiles, laughter, and joy to all those around him. He loved helping people, singing to his bluegrass tunes, restoring cars, and winning on scratch-off tickets, loved children, especially his grandchildren. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family and friends and making great memories. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Pamela Brice; brother, Richard Brice; and sister, Betty Jean Brice.
He is survived by his loving wife, Wordna Virgina Prevatt Brice of Lawtey; children, Robert Brice and Jason Brice, both of Lawtey, and Jodie (Lawrence) Andrews of Jacksonville; brother, Arnold Clarence (Susan) Brice Jr. of Lawtey; sister, Patricia Ford of Lawtey; grandchildren, Kristin (Justin) Sturgis, Brittany (Carrie) Freeman, Cameron (MaKayla) Farmer, Jeffery (Jessica) Morrow, Jessica (Steven) Paige, Joey (Brittany) Austin, Robbie Brice, and Heather Brice; great- grandchildren, Little Robbie Sky, Cole, Evan, Caleb, Nicholas, Aiden, Ashton, Kelliana, Angela, Hayden, Hunter, Harmony, L. J., Jaxson, Ezekiel, Sommer, Makaila, Justine, Destiny, Camdyn, Taylor, McKenzie, Cason, Paisley, Cassie, Paisley, and Madison; along with many extended family members and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, Sept. 15, at 4 p.m. at Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel with Brother John Frampton officiating.
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
Amy Dagenais
Ms. Amy Suzanne Dagenais, 29, of Keystone Heights, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023, at Mayo Hospital in Jacksonville. She was born June 25, 1994, in Jacksonville. She graduated high school from Trinity Christian Academy in Jacksonville in 2012 and Jacksonville University with a Bachelor of Music Education in 2016. Her teaching career in music began in 2016 at Wilkinson Elementary in Clay County. She then began studies at Maryville University in St. Louis, Missouri to earn her certificate in Music Therapy. Her passion for music began at a young age and she became an accomplished musician, which included: piano, flute, piccolo, marimba, and guitar to name a few. Her joy of music showed throughout her daily life by putting a smile on someone’s face or joy in their heart. Not only was she musically talented, but she could also do anything she put her mind to. She enjoyed cooking and crafts of all kinds, especially D.I.Y. projects. Throughout her life, she also worshiped and served the Lord in her local churches with her musical talents, but also with her love for youth and children’s ministries. She enjoyed playing in the orchestra and leading worship on the praise teams at First Baptist Church of Jacksonville and Fellowship of Wildwood (Missouri). Recently she had been attending Trinity Baptist Church in Keystone.
She is survived by her loving parents, David and Susan (Beckham) Dagenais of Keystone Heights; a sister, Melissa (Jordan) Morgan of Tampa Bay; and her nephew, Miles Morgan; as well as a brother, Matthew (Stephanie) Dagenais of Jacksonville. She is also remembered by many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members and friends.
Funeral services were held Monday, Sept. 11, at Trinity Baptist Church. Pastor Brandon Denmark and Rev. Dan Elkins officiated. Interment followed at Keystone Heights Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Jacksonville University Music Therapy Program, Office of University Advancement Jacksonville University, 2800 University Blvd. N., Jacksonville, 32211-3394.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Kenneth C. Grider
Kenneth Carl Grider, 93, of Starke passed away Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023, at Riverwood Health and Rehab, surrounded by his loving family. He was born Feb. 10, 1930, in High Springs to the late Rufus Haskell and Nancy Ann Elizabeth (Eldridge) Grider and was a lifetime area resident. He was a member of the Bradford High School Class of 1949. He played football, was class president and was voted “Best All Around” by fellow classmates. At graduation, he was presented with the Bausch and Lomb award for outstanding achievements in science. Following graduation, he attended the University of Florida before joining the Army. His basic training was at Fort Jackson, followed by service during the Korean Conflict. After his discharge, he worked for Denmark Furniture for over 43 years. He was the oldest member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, where he served as junior warden, senior warden, treasurer, and lay reader. He also sang in the choir. He was a member of American Legion Post #56 and served as past post commander and treasurer. He will be remembered for his easygoing, patient personality and wonderful sense of humor. He enjoyed many fun times at Kingsley Lake and George’s Lake with family and friends. Preceding him in death were sister, Marjorie Douville; and brother, Buddy Grider.
Survivors are, his wife of 67 years, Jacquelin Ann (Parker) Grider of Starke; daughters, Catherine Grider of Monticello, and Nancy Grider of Gainesville; brother, Lloyd Grider of Starke; and multiple fur babies. Also left are many nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church Parrish Hall on Friday, Sept. 15, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Memorial services will be Saturday, Sept. 16, at 2 p.m. at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. A reception will follow the services in the Parrish Hall. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Mark’s Foundation, PO Box 487, Starke 32091, or Haven Hospice, 4200 N.W. 90th Blvd., Gainesville 32606.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke 904-964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Theodore Lee Jr.
Theodore Roosevelt Lee Jr. was a remarkable individual whose presence brought joy and laughter to all those around him. Born on May 20, 1951, to the late Theodore Roosevelt and Adline Martin Lee, he was a lifelong resident of Lake Butler. He dedicated many years of his life to working at the sawmill. However, he was a jack of all trades who could, and would, take on any project or task that needed to be dealt with. He was also an artist who enjoyed painting. His outgoing personality and infectious laugh will be missed by all who knew him. On Friday, Sept. 8, 2023, the Lord saw fit to call him home. He was preceded in death by his beloved family members, Doris Williams of Alachua; Doris Thomas of Lawtey; and Geraldine Lee of Lake Butler.
He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Michelle Lee of Lake Butler; brother, Theodore (Regina) Thomas of Lake Butler; brothers, James Lee of Lake Butler, Joe Thomas of Gainesville, and Herman Thomas of Lake Butler, Curtis (Candace) Thomas of Lake Butler; Thurman Thomas of Lake Butler; Alma Thomas of Lake Butler; Juanita Thomas of Lake Butler; Regina (Gregory) Merricks of Lake Butler; and Patricia Goodman of Lake Butler. He is also survived by his children and grandchildren, Carla Lee (Clayton) Lovette, Denise Morrissette, Renee Morrissette, Kenneth Morrissette, and Kassandra (George) Underwood, Victor Valentine Jr., Olivia and Justice Kelly, James Mobley, Brooklyn and Kingston Underwood. In addition, he leaves behind a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless friends who all share in the loss of his presence.
His memorial service will be held at the Archer-Milton Funeral Home, 55 N. Lake Ave., Lake Butler, 32054, on Saturday, Sept. 23, at 11 a.m.
He was a remarkable man who touched the lives and hearts of those fortunate enough to know him. His laughter will echo in our memories as we carry on his legacy of kindness and joy.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Phyllis Nobles
Phyllis Nobles, 76, loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away on the afternoon of Thursday, Aug. 25, 2023, after a battle with renal failure causing heart complications. She was born June 27, 1947, in Gainesville and grew up in Starke, the daughter of the late Charles and Virginia Darby. She had one brother, Arthur Michael “Mike” Darby, and two sisters, Virginia Darby Johns, and the late Nancy Lee Darby Akridge. She graduated in 1965 from Bradford High School. She was very devoted and active in Christ Church (formerly Mandarin Christian Church), from attending Sunday services to teaching Sunday school for many years. She loved her job working for Sherrod Vans as their accounting manager. She was very dedicated to the company up until the day she passed. She was a very loving, kind, selfless, and wonderful woman who never hesitated to do anything for anyone. She met her husband, Robert Nobles, in 1965 and married in June of 1966. They went on to have two sons, Charles and Michael Nobles. Her son, Michael, upgraded her name from mother to grandmother in 1998 with his daughter, Sierra, who in 2017 and 2022 gave her the name great-grandmother to Addilyn Rose and Kylen Richmond. From mother to great-grandmother, she was never anything but kind, generous, and imaginative, and always had the perfect things to say.
The service will be held at Mandarin Cemetery on Saturday, Sept. 16, at 10 a.m. Reception to follow at Christ Church.
PAID OBITUARY
Phyllis Price
Mrs. Phyllis Marie Collins Price, 94, of Keystone Heights passed away Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023, at Haven Hospice Roberts Care Center in Palatka, following a brief illness. She was born April 5, 1929, in Mannington, West Virginia to Miles and Gale (Gump) Gregg. She was a homemaker and a longtime member of the First Baptist Church where she was actively involved in many areas. She enjoyed sewing, growing roses, cooking for family and friends, camping, and being active and social in her community. Most of all, she was known for the love she had for her Lord and Savior, along with being a loving and dedicated wife, mother, and grandma. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by husbands, Jack D. Collins and Jimmy Price.
Survivors are her six children, Richard (Shauna) Collins of Keystone Heights, Darlene (Scott) Given of Raleigh, North Carolina, Diane (Jimmy) Woods of Vidalia, Georgia, Michael Collins of Tucson, Arizona, Janice Vogel of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Janet Wyscarver of Orlando; along with two sisters, Glenda Long of Eustis, and Lee Smith of Dalhart, Texas. She was lovingly called “Grandma” by nine grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, Sept. 16, at 11 a.m., at the First Baptist Church with a reception to follow. Pastor Ryan Begue will be officiating the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the First Baptist Church, 550 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
