Gunner Black
Gunner Paul Black, August 13, 2021 – August 31, 2021. Just 18 days after coming into the world Gunner died while being treated at Wolfson’s Children Hospital in Jacksonville. During his short time on earth, he brought joy to those that were around him.
He is survived by: his parents, Cody Black and Tiffany Hill; his brother, Grayson Gause; his paternal grandparents, David and Pamela Black; and maternal grandparents, Jason and Melissa Hill; great-grandparents, Joyce Vorpe, Diane Center and Halsie Hill.
Services will be announced at a later date.
Arrangements by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, Keystone Heights.
Bobbie Faye Blackshear
STARKE Bobbie Faye Blackshear, age 75, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 12, 2021 at North Florida Regional Medical Center in Gainesville. She was born on May 31, 1946 in Gainesville to Kirby Shi Smith Sr. and Eula Mae (Dyal) Smith. She was a 1964 graduate of Bradford High School and soon after graduated from the University of Florida (Go Gators!). She was a beloved Bradford County school teacher for over thirty years. Her love for her school, her teacher friends, and her students was felt by every person she came in contact with. She was always teaching invaluable life lessons and reciting a bible verse to anyone in need. Bobbie Faye was truly cherished by everyone who met her. Her love for Jesus, Kingsley Lake, and her people was evident in her everyday life. She could always be seen sitting on her porch watching the sunrise over the lake with her coffee or standing on the porch taking a picture of a beautiful moon over the lake. She just recently joined Kingsley Lake Baptist Church and felt like she was truly at “home” with her church family. She left her family and friends with a heart full of love and a head full of memories. Bobbie Faye was preceded in death by her husband, Lew Chaff; her later husband, Thomas Blackshear; her mother, Eula Mae Smith; her father, Shi Smith; and her brother, Robbie Smith.
Bobbie is survived by: her son, Andy (Wendy) Chaff; her daughter, Shilynn (Robby) McRae; her sister, Linda Hildebran; and her brother, Kirby Shi (Kitty) Smith; her grandchildren, Cole (Jaclyn) McRae, ShiAnn (Jonathan) Best, Hunter Chaff, Molly McRae, and Cassidy Chaff; her great-grandchildren, Kingsley and Wake Best, and Berklee and Stockton McRae.
A Graveside service will be held on Friday, Sept. 17 at 1 p.m. at Kingsley Lake Baptist Church Cemetery. Pastor Jonathan Rodriguez officiating. Flowers are appreciated; however, donations can also be made to The American Heart Association.
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
Gloria Boggs
KEYSTONE HEIGHTS Gloria “Lori” Boggs of Keystone Heights passed away on Wednesday, August 18, 2021 after a long battle with cancer.
She is survived by: her husband, Calvin; brother, Charles; son, Wayne; step-son, Kevin; son-in-law, George; six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
PAID OBITUARY
Janet “Jan” Carlson
KEYSTONE HEIGHTS Janet “Jan” Lynn Carlson, 61, of Keystone Heights died at home in her sleep on Thursday, August 26, 2021. Jan was born October 28, 1959, in Pompton Plains, New Jersey. She is preceded in death by her parents, the late Leonard and Edith Carlson. Jan was a CNA and was most recently employed with the Keystone Heights Post Office before transferring to Gainesville.
She is survived by: her partner of 10 years, Carlton (Harold) Martin of Keystone Heights; and a son, Cortez Coleman of Gainesville; her sisters, Diane Johnson and Nancy Pearson also of Keystone Heights.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Arrangements by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, Keystone Heights.
James “Jimmy” Clemons
STARKE James Walton “Jimmy” Clemons, age 69, of Starke passed away in Gainesville on Sunday, September 12, 2021. Jimmy was born on February 1, 1952 in Lake City to the late Roy and Ethel “Parrish” Clemons. Jimmy will be remembered for his faith in Christ and always wearing his cowboy hat. Jimmy was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Starke, where he also taught Sunday School. Jimmy enjoyed riding horses, traveling with his wife, Donna, working the hay fields with his nephew, Jeff, working on job sites with his son, Jacob and spending time with his grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Connie Mills.
Survivors include: his wife, Donna Clemons; children, John (Pat) Clemons, Jamie (Barbie) Clemons, Jason (Amanda) Clemons, Jacob (Kim) Clemons, Alisha (John) Clemons, and Kenya (Aaron) Arnette; siblings, Betty Norman, Roy “Bud” Clemons, Patsy Newmans, Brenda Tew, and Marsha Nugent; 14 grandchildren; and 6 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at First Baptist Church of Starke on Monday, Sept. 20 beginning at 11 a.m. with Pastor Michael Conner and Wailon Haston officiating. A visitation will be prior to the service beginning at 10 a.m. Burial will take place at Lawtey Cemetery.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke. 904-964-6200.
PAID OBITUARY
Barbara Crawford
STARKE Mrs. Barbara “Mema” Jean Crawford, 85, a lifelong resident of Starke passed away Thursday, September 9, 2021 in Gainesville. She was born February 15, 1936 in Starke to William R. and Pearl (Sapp) Conner. Prior to retirement, she worked for Clay County School Board as a bus driver and at Southside Elementary School in the cafeteria for 29 years. She was a long-time member of Laura Baptist Church and enjoyed camping, attending gospel sings, and spoiling her children and grandchildren. She was also a great example of being a wife and mother. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Jason “J.B.” Crawford.
Her survivors are: four sons, Allen B. (Elaine) Crawford of Starke, Donnie (Denise) Crawford of Lake Butler, Gordon “Dinky” Crawford of Starke and Eric (Charmin) Crawford of Lake Butler; and two sisters, Nancy (Hilton) Coleman and Betty Ann Griffis all of Starke. She was lovingly called “Mema” by ten grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and four great great-grandchildren.
Funeral services for Mrs. Crawford were held on Sunday, Sept. 12 at Sampson City Church of God. Bro. Jason Crawford, her grandson, and Rev. Lester Austin officiated. Interment followed at Conner Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St. Starke. (904) 964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Gladys Crawford
BROOKER Gladys Louise Crawford 83, of Brooker passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 7, 2021. Gladys was born on August 20, 1938 to the late Gideon Crawford and Ethel Whitehead. Gladys lived most of her life in Ft. Myers where she raised her six children. She has called Brooker home for over the past 25 years. Gladys became a CNA and did home health care and also retired from Publix Supermarkets after working there for many years in the meat department. Some of her favorite things to do were baking, crafting, sewing, crocheting, gardening, and playing the piano. She loved the Lord, singing, listening to gospel music, attending church and babies. She enjoyed spending time with her family and grandchildren. She had eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren who called her “Mema.” Her presence and laughter will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Gladys is preceded in death by her siblings, Margaret Fine, Helen Griffin, Ruth Skinner, Betty Henthorne; sons, Martin Fine, Steven Fine; and granddaughters, Natalie and Nicole Salah.
She is survived by: her sisters, Mary Jane “Janie” Green of Dandridge, Tennessee and Barbara (Ben) Kellogg of Cape Coral; sons, Daniel O’Brien of Brooker, Joseph “Kevin” Fine of Bradenton; daughters, Janet (Dwight) Fitzmaurice of Brooker, Jennifer (Grant) Jones of Lake City; grandchildren, Kelly Grant of Bradenton, Matthew Sweitzer of Lake City, Ryan DeGeus (Gloria) of Brooker, Joe Elliot of Roachdale, Indiana, Kristopher “Jordan” Beasley of Clarkesville, Georgia, Madelyn Jones, Kameron Jones, and Konnor Jones of Lake City; great-grandchildren, Jake DeGeus, Hailey DeGeus, and Lindsey DeGeus, of Brooker, Jade Goyette of Alaska and Logan Goyette of Bradenton; and a host of nieces and nephews.
A memorial service to honor Gladys’ life was held Sept. 15 at Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. Gladys was laid to rest immediately following the services at Dedan Cemetery, Brooker.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Stacy Crawford
UNION COUNTY Mr. Stacy Alan Crawford lost his courageous battle with COVID-19 on Tuesday, September 7, 2021. Stacy was born in Macclenny but grew up, graduated high school, and raised his family in Union County. Stacy dedicated 29 years to the Department of Corrections as a correctional officer. After retirement, he joined the Union County Sheriff’s Office where he has served faithfully and diligently since 2016. Stacy was a die-hard Florida Gators football fan who loved being outdoors, especially riding his side-by-side. Stacy loved people, hanging out or just helping anyone in need. Stacy is preceded in death by his father, Amos Crawford; step-mother, Evelyn Alice Crawford; his nieces and nephews, Katherine Alice Miller, DeAiré Montez Miller, Alma Earle Miller, Eric Lewis Dalrymple, and Kristen Renee’ Holmes.
Stacy leaves behind: his wife, Laura Crawford of Lake Butler; children, Kyle (Meghan) Wade, Ashley, and Casey Crawford; his grandchildren, Madelyn Feltner, Kyleigh Groves, and Jase Feltner; his mother, Billie Griffis of Lawtey; siblings, Bryan (Mary) Turner, Billy “Darrell” (Alice) Crawford, Cynthia “Diane” (Alvin) Crawford, Sharon (Robert) Marrero, Denise (Mack) McDonald, Kelly (Joe) Holmes, Kevin Davis (Jeanie Troup), Mandy Davis, and Michelle (James) Trollinger; and numerous nieces and nephews to cherish his memories.
A service to honor Stacy was held at on Tuesday, Sept. 14 at the First Christian Church, Lake Butler. Stacy was laid to rest with full honors immediately following the service at Swift Creek Cemetery. The family is accepting donations to the Stacy Crawford Covid Relief Fund. Cash App: $CrawfordCovidRelief or make checks payable to Laura Crawford and can be mailed to:
Kelly and Joe Holmes
Attention: Laura Crawford
15337 SW 91st Way
Lake Butler, FL 32054.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. 386-496-2008
PAID OBITUARY
David Dodge
STARKE Mr. David Langston Dodge, age 91, of Starke passed away Sunday, September 5, 2021 at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville. Mr. Dodge was born on July 11, 1930 in Boston, Massachusetts to the late Elbert L. and Anna (Johnson) Dodge. He graduated from Commerce High School in Worcester, Massachusetts in 1948 and went to the University of Massachusetts at Amherst where he received a degree in Pomology. David was an active member of the First United Methodist Church of Starke where he was an active member of the Praise team and choir. Prior to retirement, he was the co-owner of Outlaw & Dodge Appraisals and the owner of David Dodge Appraisals. He also worked as head pilot and flight school director for Bedford Aviation Hanscom Field in Bedford, Massachusetts and was the general manager for Spring Hill Orchards in Sterling, Massachusetts. Mr. Dodge received an appointment to the North Florida Planning Council by both Governors Jeb Bush and Charlie Crist, he was a past member of the Bradford County Code Enforcement Board, a member of the Executive Board of the ARC of Bradford County for over 30 years and was a member of the Bradford County Republican Executive Committee. He enjoyed working stage and sound production for local theater productions, band and chorus concerts and local 4th of July celebrations. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Consuelo (Godfrey) Dodge; and his son, Dominick David Dodge.
Survivors are: his children, Jennifer Dodge Weller of Starke, Roger Dodge of Bushnell, and Lawrence E. Dodge of Sterling, Virginia. Also left are seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Memorial services will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Bradford County ARC, 1365 S. Water St., Starke, FL 32091.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Mary “Sue” Erickson
KEYSTONE HEIGHTS Mrs. Mary “Sue” Erickson, 71, of Keystone Heights died Sunday, September 12, 2021. She was born October 11, 1949 in Bristol, Virginia to Elmer and Betty (Atwood) Francis. She and her husband owned and operated a small engine repair business for many years. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband of 40 plus years, Leonard Erickson; and two sisters, Marjorie and Ginny.
Her survivors are: two children, Tammie Erickson and Rick (Cheryl) Erickson all of Starke; along with seven siblings, Larry, Juanita, Rosemary, Carol, Gary, Wayne, and Joanne; and four grandchildren.
There are no scheduled services at this time.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke.
Ernestine “Ernie” Gann
KEYSTONE HEIGHTS Mrs. Ernestine “Ernie” Shawn Gann, 79, a longtime resident of Keystone Heights passed away at her home Thursday, September 2, 2021. She was born September 16, 1941 in Richmond Hill, Georgia to the late Ernest and Myrtle (Neel) Shaw. Prior to retirement, Mrs. Gann worked many years for the Clay County School System. She was a longtime member of Keystone Heights First Baptist Church and enjoyed camping, traveling, shopping with the girls and especially spending time with her family.
Mrs. Gann leaves behind: her loving and devoted husband of 61 years, Terry Gann; and their children, Phillip Neel (Robin) Gann and Christopher Kent (Kim) Gann all of Keystone Heights. She was also lovingly called “Grandma” by Shawn Gann, Brittany Gann, Troy Gann, Kyle Gann, and Marci Gann.
A memorial service for Mrs. Gann will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 18 in the First Baptist Church with Pastor Daniel Findley officiating. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the First Baptist Church Building Fund, 550 E. Walker Dr., Keystone Heights, FL 32656.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home 340 E. Walker Dr. Keystone Heights. (352)473-3176 www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
William “Bill” Girouard
KEYSTONE HEIGHTS William “Bill” R. Girouard, 51, of Keystone Heights passed away Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at North Florida Regional Medical Center in Gainesville. Bill was born February 15, 1970 in Ware, Massachusetts to Dennis and Joan (McCarthy) Girouard. Bill was proud to be a stay at home dad. He held a membership at Mission of the Dirt Road. Bill was an avid gardener, he loved researching and growing herbs for medicinal use. He was a family man who loved his family deeply. Bill was a stay at home dad to his two children who he adored. He helped the love of his life, Cassy, run a local store.
Bill is survived by: his parents; his loving wife of 14 years, Cassandra “Cassy”; and two beautiful children, Austin and Lexi, all of which reside in Keystone Heights. He is also survived by his brother, Joel (Kathy) Girouard; and father-in-law, Francis (Ruth) Mann of Warren, Massachusetts.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. The family would like to request in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to care for Bill’s young children, or the Mission of the Dirt Road.
Arrangements by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Dr., Keystone Heights. (352)473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Luther Green
STARKE Mr. Luther Herman Green, 84, of Starke died Thursday, September 9, 2021 at North Florida Regional Medical Center in Gainesville. He was born March 9, 1937, in Raiford to Levy Washington and Pearlie Onie (Griffis) Green. He was a retired Truck Driver and member of the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his wife of 63 wonderful years, Wanda (Whitaker) Green.
Mr. Green leaves behind: his four children, Christine Green and Tammy Green (Anne) all of Starke, Jesse Green (Cruz) of Carlsbad, New Mexico, and Max Green (Lisa) of Hobbs, New Mexico. Also left behind is his sister in-law, Irene Green of Starke; twelve grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Graveside services for Mr. Green were held Monday, Sept. 13. Mr. Steve Barber officiated. Interment will be at Sapp Cemetery.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke. 904-964-6200.
Richard Millar
Richard Karsten Millar, 62, passed away Tuesday, September 7, 2021. He was born on June 8, 1959 in Jacksonville. He graduated from Robert E. Lee and was a dedicated Service Manager at Equipment Services in Palatka. He was preceded in death by his wife, Cynthia Millar.
He is survived by: his son, Jacob Crenshaw; one grandson; his siblings, Albert (Barbara) Millar, Troy (Karen) Millar and Vicki (Danny) Duncan. He was and preceded in death by his wife, Cynthia Millar; daughter, Ashley Crenshaw and parents, Albert Millar and Sigrid (Millar) Jolicoeur.
The family is hosting a Celebration of Life on Saturday, Oct. 2 at noon at the Bat Cave, 5823 Trout River Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32219.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke.
Ginger Miller
Ginger Nicole Miller, 39, died on Sunday, September 5, 2021, at UF Health Shands after an extended illness. She was born January 18, 1982 in Gainesville to Paul Martin Miller and Mary Alice Garvin. She is preceded in death by her paternal grandmother, Matilda McRae; and her maternal grandparents, Mike and Carol Garvin.
Ginger is survived by: her mother, Mary Alice Hall of Worthington Springs; her father, Paul “Marty” Miller of Lake Butler; brothers, Daniel Hall of Dade City, Kelly Hall of Worthington Springs, and Cody Rogers of Starke; two sons, Christian G. Erwin and Hayden R. Erwin of Lake Butler.
Ginger will be laid to rest at Ft. Call Cemetery. There will be no services at this time.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler.
Barbara Murray
KEYSTONE HEIGHTS Mrs. Barbara Lucille Murray, 79, of Keystone Heights died Sunday, April 26, 2020, at Windsor Health and Rehab Center in Starke. She was born February 4, 1941, in Bradford, Pennsylvania to the late John and Agnes (Kearns) Rose. Prior to her retirement she had worked as a bookkeeper and office manager for a doctor’s office. Mrs. Murray was of the Catholic faith.
She is survived by: her husband of 60 years, William M. Murray, Jr. of Keystone Heights; and their two daughters, Connie Murray (Kenny Hall) of Keystone Heights and Donna (Nolan) Wilson of West Palm Beach; one brother, Tom Rose of Bradford, Pennsylvania; step-brother, Kent Stewart of New Jersey and step-sister, Pam Nick of Pennsylvania; along with brother in-law, David Murray of St. Cloud; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held Sunday, Sept. 19 at the Funeral Home Chapel.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, Keystone Heights.
William “Pop” Nipper
BROOKER William “Pop” Steve Nipper Sr., 76, of Brooker died on Sunday, September 12, 2021 at St. Vincent Riverside Hospital in Jacksonville. He was born in Brooker on July 3, 1945, to the late Calley Nipper and Doris Goodge Nipper. He will be forever missed, always loved, and never forgotten. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Betty Jean Nipper; daughter, Sheri Kay Nipper Bostwick.
William is survived by: his son, Stevie Nipper; his brother, Richard (Shirley Ann) Nipper; brother-in-law, Edward (Thelma) Allen; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
A Graveside Celebration of Steve’s Life was held on Wednesday, Sept. 15 at Dedan Loop Cemetery in Brooker. Bro. John Frampton officiated.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke.
George Pierce
Judge George Hinton Pierce passed peacefully in his sleep Monday morning, September 13, 2021 after a brief stay at North Florida Regional Hospital. Judge Pierce, currently of Gainesville, was a long-time practicing attorney, county judge, and senior judge of Bradford County. Judge Pierce was born in Opp, Alabama on August 3, 1931 to George Dewey and Kitty Mae Pierce. After attending grade school in Live Oak, George moved with his family to Pompano Beach where he graduated from Pompano Beach High School in June 1949. From August 1949 to December 1952 George proudly served in the United States Air Force where he was involved in the Korean War. He was honorably discharged as a staff sergeant with four Bronze Battle Stars and several citations and medals. On January 18, 1953, George married Gladys Cartwright of Cleveland, Tennessee. They subsequently moved to Gainesville where George attended the University of Florida, graduating in 1956 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. The Peirce’s then moved to Lebanon, Tennessee where George attended and graduated from Cumberland Law School in 1958. Returning to Gainesville, George was employed by the law firm of Scruggs, Carmichael, and Avera until December of 1959. At that time, the Pierce’s moved to Starke where George began a practice with A.J. Thomas, Jr. He served as Bradford County Attorney and Prosecutor for three years, Bradford County School Board Attorney for two years, and City Attorney for Starke, Brooker, and Hampton for 20 years. In December of 1981, he was appointed to the bench as Bradford County Judge by Governor Bob Graham. Judge Pierce served unopposed until his retirement in 1994. From January 1995 to September 2007, Judge Pierce served as a Senior Judge in various Circuits. Named an outstanding Floridian in 1971, George served on the Santa Fe Community College Endowment Board for 25 years. Judge Pierce also served on various Florida Bar Association committees being Vice President of the 1st District, President of the 8th Judicial Circuit, and Vice President of the Conference of County Judges. He was past president of the Bradford County Chamber of Commerce and Starke Rotary, past Commander of Post 56 American Legion, life member of the Free & Accepted Masons Lodge #35 in Starke, Scottish Rite and York Rite Bodies of Masonry. George was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Francis Pierce (Govan) Smith of Live Oak.
He leaves behind: his loving wife of 68 years, Gladys; his daughter, Lynn (Jay) Godwin of Gainesville; and son, Rob (Molly) Pierce of Cleveland, Tennessee. He also leaves five grandchildren, Jordan (Whitney) Pierce of Ooltewah, Tennessee and Claire Pierce of Knoxville, Tennessee; and Jacob Godwin, Thomas Godwin and Grant Godwin of Gainesville; and three great-grandchildren, Carter, Catherine and Caroline Pierce all of Ooltewah, Tennessee; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and extended family will miss their Uncle George (Poppy).
A man of service and distinction, the Hon. George H. Pierce will be missed. A loyal and faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Starke, George has gone home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
The family will receive friends at the First Baptist Church of Starke on Saturday, Sept. 18 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Funeral services will follow visitation and will start at 11 a.m., interment will immediately follow at Crosby Lake Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to First Baptist Church General Fund, P.O. Box 1258, Starke, FL 32091 or a charity of choice.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke. 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
John Rosado
LAWTEY Mr. John Santiago Rosado, 82, of Lawtey passed away Wednesday, September 8, 2021 at St. Vincent’s Hospital of Clay County. John was born on the 21st of October, 1938 in Haiku, Maui, Hawaii to the late Joseph and Mary (Santiago) Rosado. He graduated from Maui High School in 1958 and had some college experience. John married his wife, Susan (Rider) Rosado on the 3rd of April, 1976 at Havre de Grace First Baptist Church parsonage. They shared 45 years of marriage. He proudly served his country 20 years in the United States Army and worked 13 years at the Union Correctional Institute in Union County. He was a member of Starke Masonic Lodge #35 and Lake Butler OES Chapter #40. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 4 brothers, George, Natalie, Peter and Manual; and 2 sisters, Louisa, and Lucy.
John is survived by: his wife, Susan; daughter, Carolyn of Petaluma, California; sons, Jonathan and Christopher, both of Lawtey. Also left are his six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Oct. 2 at 2 p.m. at Grace United Methodist Church on County Road 225 in Lawtey. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Lake Butler OES Chapter 40 or Grace United Methodist Church.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke. 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Frederick “Rick” Sanford
KEYSTONE HEIGHTS Frederick “Rick” Elton Sanford, Sr., 52, of Keystone Heights died at his home on Saturday, September 11, 2021. Rick was born on September 11, 1969 in Starke to the late Earl Jack and Dorothy Marie “Lizenbee” Sanford. He worked for Putnam County as a heavy equipment operator. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Marie Sanford; and his daughter, Cora Sanford.
He is survived by: his wife, Amy Sanders Sanford; children, Kimberly Sanford, Kandice Sanford, Dokata Sanford, Amber Sanford, Kayla Sanford, Frederick “Ricky” Sanford, Jr.; step-children, Jamie Sanders, Sandra Trowell and Brittany Trowell; step-mother, Mollie McCall (Sanford); two estranged children; and 21 grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 18 at the Keystone Heights Chapel with burial at Santa Fe Cemetery. A visitation will take place from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 17. Pastor Conner Goodwin will be officiating.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, Keystone Heights.
Kenneth “Kenny” Stephens
JASPER Kenneth “Kenny” James Stephens Sr., age 58, of Jasper passed away on Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital. Kenneth was born in Starke on July 12, 1963, to the late Freddie Monroe Stephens, Sr. and Vonda Gayle Starling Stephens. Kenny was raised in Starke and attended Bradford High School. Shortly after high school Kenny enlisted in the United States Navy where he proudly served his country for one year one month and one day. In 1984, Kenny married the love of his life, Tammy Hall Stephens and together they spent 30 beautiful years. In 1987, Kenny relocated to Jasper for a job opportunity as a correctional officer at Hamilton County Correctional Institution. During this time he was promoted to Captain before retiring in 2008. He enjoyed his retirement for two years and then decided to get back into what he loved; Kenny took a job as Captain at Lake City Correction Institution in 2011 and has been employed there since. Kenny enjoyed hunting, fishing, and being outdoors. Kenny was a mama’s boy, he loved his mama dearly. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his kids and grand-kids. Kenny was loved deeply and will be missed by all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his father; wife; and brother, Paul “Stevie” Darren Stephens.
Kenneth is survived by: his mother, Vonda Gayle Stephens of Starke; his children, Kenneth (Ricci) James Stephens Jr. of Mount Dora, Kyle (Sadie) Stephens of Jasper, and Michael Hall of Georgia; brother, Freddie (Charleen) Monroe Stephens, Jr. of Brooker; grandchildren, Ashden, Carter, Jordan, Collin, Gavin and Reid.
A Celebration of Kenny’s Life was held on Tuesday, Sept. 14 at Archie Tanner memorial chapel. Bro. Freddie Stephens, Jr. officiated. Interment followed at Crosby Lake 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
James “Jim” Tomlinson
James (Jim) E. Tomlinson left us on Wednesday, June 30, 2021 with family by his side. “He fought the good fight, he finished the race, he kept the faith. Now there is in store for him the crown of righteousness which The Lord will award to him” (2 Timothy 4:7-8). He was born October 6, 1933, in Chicago to Guy Tomlinson and Ruth LeBlanc. He was the 5th son born of 9 children. At the age of 18, Jim enlisted in the Army and was a veteran of the Korean War. Jim retired in 1992 after 23 years with the University of Florida Police Dept. He was an active member of Christ Lutheran Church in Keystone Heights since 1985. He served Christ and the church in many capacities, including as Council President for 25 years. His leisure activities included traveling with his wife and family, vacationing at Daytona Beach, playing card and board games with family and friends, golf, bowling, and coaching a girls’ softball team. He spent time reading, working on word puzzles, and watching Y&R daily. Jim cherished time with family and friends. Rest in Peace, you will be remembered always.
Jim is survived by: his wife of 63 years, Darlene; three daughters, Terri Seymour, Lorri (Paul) Parsons, and Susan Tomlinson; grandson, Tyler (Ashley) Parsons; great-grandson, Kyle Parsons; many nieces and nephews and church family and friends.
A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, Sept. 26 at 11 a.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 3760 State Rd 21, Keystone Heights, FL, 32656. The service will be performed by Pastor Paul Lemke.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Dr., Keystone Heights, FL 32656. (352)473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Donna Youngblood
HAMPTON Donna Marie Youngblood, 79, of Hampton passed away on Sunday, September 12, 2021 at UF Shand’s in Gainesville. She was born in Oroville, California on December 23, 1941 to the late Woodrow Wilson Rabe and Eugenia Rabe. On December 3, 1977, Donna married Larry Youngblood, Sr. and together they spent 41 wonderful years. Donna enjoyed working in several different fields starting out at the University of Florida where she was a librarian and then at the Department of Transportation as a receptionist. She worked in Bradford County School System as a school bus driver. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and daughter, Sherri Anne.
Donna is survived by: her children, Melody (Eric) Young of Raiford and Mark Youngblood of Hampton; four grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.
A Memorial Celebration of Donna’s Life will be held on Thursday, Sept. 16 at 10 a.m. with Pastor Jim Cox officiating. Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke.
