JL Johnson, 86, of Chattahoochee and Panama City, Florida, passed away Wednesday, June 6, 2018.  He graduated in 1950 from Shanks high School in Quincy, Fl.  JL proudly served in the United States Air Force for 23 1/4 years retiring at Tyndall Air Force Base with the rank of Tgst.  He was a Korean war veteran who worked with the Explosive Ordinance Disposal.  JL retired from the Bay County Wastewater Treatment Department in 2002.

JL loved to fish and enjoyed gardening often making pepper sauce and pear relish with ingredients from his garden.  He achieved Master Gardner status in Hydroponics from Haney Vo-Tech.  JL was a raconteur and avid reader of books on a variety of subjects.  He was a gentle giant known to tease and play with his grandkids.

JL is survived by his loving wife of 64 and one-half years, Betty Jean (Morris) Johnson; one daughter, Matilda J. Conway and her husband Craig of Panama City; two sons, Jerome L. Johnson of Chattahoochee and Wilbon D. Johnson of Panama City; eight grandchildren, Sheila, Sue, Shelley, Nicole, Kristina, Justin, Celeste and Olivia; eight great grandchildren, Kayla, Amiya, Madeline, Alyssa, Keira, Eli, Reagan, and Riley along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents George and Laura Inez (Thursby) Johnson as well as five brothers and one sister.  JL was of the Church of Christ faith.

Visitation for family and friends will take place one hour prior to services Saturday, June 9, 2018, from 1:00 PM till 1:45 PM EST at McAlpin Funeral Home.  Funeral Services will follow at 2:00 PM EST with Reverend S. E. Newberry officiating. Interment will be at Sylvania Cemetery in Recovery, Georgia with McAlpin Funeral Home directing.  Military Honors will be presented by American Legion Post 241 in honor of this Veteran.

Mr. Charles Frasier Jones, 85, a lifelong resident of the Chattahoochee and Sneads area passed away Wednesday, June 20, 2018. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Chattahoochee, FL.  Frasier loved to work in his yard tending to his flowers and cutting the grass or just sitting on the front porch conversing with friends and family.  Frasier loved people in general but adored his four girls, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Frasier was known and loved for his unique greeting of “Hey Baby” to those who knew him.   Frasier was a loving father, grandfather, uncle, brother and a genuine family man.

Frasier is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Shirley Jones; four daughters, Belinda Wyman and husband Robert of Perry, FL; Donna Couto of Sneads, FL and son-in-law Michael of Rhode Island; Connie DeFrancesco and husband Bill of Orlando, FL; Tracy Kellett and Wally of Pelham, GA; one sister, Rebecca Wier of Mobile, AL; eight grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Frasier was preceded in death by his father Beautis Shelmon Jones, mother Violet Brell Godfrey, five brothers, one sister, and a granddaughter Cassie Benson.

A Celebration of Life Service is planned for Monday, June 25, 2018 at 11:00 AM Central Time at McAlpin Funeral Home in Sneads, Florida.  Interment will be private on a later date.

McAlpin Funeral Home
PO BOX 280
8261 Highway 90
Sneads, FL  32460

Mrs. Sylvia F. Mercer, 67, a native of Jackson County, passed away Saturday, June 23, 2018, in Marianna, Florida.  Sylvia was known for her heart of gold.  She never held a grudge against anyone and would give you anything she had if you were in need.  Sylvia was a born caretaker.  Sylvia loved to read.  She enjoyed cooking and baking when she was able and also tending to her flowers.  Sylvia genuinely loved life and the people in her life including her special pup “mollie”; to know Sylvia was to love her.   She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great friend.  Sylvia will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Sylvia is survived by the most important person in her life, Harold J. Mercer of Greenwood, FL her devoted husband of 54 years; one daughter, Sonia Hoffman and her husband Joseph of Marianna, FL; one son, Sean Mercer of Corpus Christi, TX; two grandchildren, Antonio Camacho of Chipley, FL and Autumn Hoffman of Marianna, FL and a host of extended family.

Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents Gordon and Ethel Blighton, one sister, two brothers and one daughter, Stacy Camacho.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Wednesday, June 27, 2018 at 11:00 AM at Welcome Assembly of God Church with Rev. Charles Jackson officiating and McAlpin Funeral Home directing.

Mrs. Nadine Ham, born December 19, 1919 in Jackson County, Florida, was called home to be with her Lord on June 25, 2018 while surrounded by her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents Will and Lizzie Jeter; her husband, Leon Ham; her son, John W. Ham and her daughter, Shirley Ham McDaniel.

She is survived by three loving daughters, Patricia Benefield (Steve), Jennell Basford (Leland), and Ladon Haveard (Ray), along with 9 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. 

Nadine Ham was a homemaker who had a love for fishing, farming, and most of all, her family.  She was an active member of Inwood Baptist Church.  She leaves behind cherished memories and will be dearly missed by her family, her church family, and her community.

Visitation for friends and family will be held Thursday, June 28, 2018 at McAlpin Funeral Home in Sneads, FL from 9:00 AM CST until 9:45 AM CST.  Funeral Services will begin at 10:00 AM CST with Rev. Steve Benefield officiating.  Interment will be in Carpenter Cemetery with McAlpin Funeral Home directing.

Mrs. Annie Baxter Sanders, 83, a lifelong resident of Sneads, Florida passed away surrounded by her loving family Wednesday, June 27, 2018.  Annie’s whole world was her family and her beloved dog Moody. She enjoyed preparing meals for her family and spending time with loved ones.  Her hobbies were fishing, cooking, traveling, and watching her “soaps”. She loved people and serving her community.  She was a faithful homemaker, beloved mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great grandmother and great-great grandmother.  She will be deeply missed by her family, and many friends made throughout the years.

Annie is survived by her daughter Debbie Baxter of Chipley, FL; her sister Bessie Strickland of Grand Ridge, FL; five grandchildren Tanya Howell (Brad), Todd Herring, Monica McDaniel, TJ Storey, and Monique Thompson (Chris); nine great grandchildren; and three great-great grandchildren.

Annie was preceded in death by her parents Alton Smith and Emma Neel; two husbands Foy “Shorty” Baxter and Herman Sanders; her son Richie Baxter; her daughter Judy Baxter McDaniel; three brothers and two sisters.

A special thank you to all the staff at Marianna Health and Rehab for the extraordinary care given to Ms. Annie and her family.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held onSaturday, June 30, 2018 at McAlpin Funeral Home Chapel beginning at 10:00 AM CST with Sister Eva Howell officiating.  Interment will be at Salem Wesleyan Church Cemetery in Sneads, Florida with McAlpin Funeral Home directing.

Rev. James Larry Demakowski, 75, a resident of Woodville, Florida passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, July 4, 2018 in Tallahassee, FL.  He was a faithful Southern Baptist minister of the gospel for over 45 years pastoring in lower Alabama and North Florida.  He enjoyed cultivating flower and vegetable gardens to generously give away his harvest to others.  Larry cherished his family and friends dearly.  He wholeheartedly loved serving his Lord Jesus Christ and devoted his life to serving others. He was a true “people person” that always put others first. He loved traveling and exploring new places and if you asked him if he was ready to go his reply was always “I’m ready where are we going?” Larry particularly enjoyed family festivities where he could sit back and observe his family fellowship and appreciate one another.  He was a beloved husband, proud father, uncle and overjoyed grandfather.  He will be deeply missed by his family, and numerous friends made throughout the years.

Larry is survived by his devoted wife of 48 years, Kay Demakowski; one son, David Demakowski and wife Amber of Sneads, FL; one daughter, Laura Demakowski McAlpin and husband Sammy John of Sneads, FL; two grandchildren, one special grandson, Isaiah Harvell and one most precious granddaughter, Abigail Grace Demakowski both of Sneads, FL. 

Larry was preceded in death by his mother Margaret J. Demakowski.

Visitation will be held Friday, July 6, 2018 at McAlpin Funeral Home in Sneads, FL from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM Eastern Time.  A Celebration of Life Home Going Service will be held Saturday, July 7, 2018 at 11:00 AM Eastern Time at First Baptist Church of Woodville with Rev. Trent Gann officiating.  Additionally, the family will also receive friends one hour prior to services at First Baptist Church Woodville.  Interment will follow at Millsprings Cemetery in Sneads, Florida with McAlpin Funeral Home directing.

Jeanette Combs Horton of Chattahoochee, Florida age 89, died July 10, 2018.

She was born on May 19, 1929 in Sassafras, Knott County, Kentucky, to the late Carlos Eugene Combs and Clora Amburgey Combs.

She and her family were residents of Beckley and Charleston, West Virginia for many years before moving to Chattahoochee, FL in June, 1960.

She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Chattahoochee, FL; a member of the Chattahoochee Decorative Artists and a 1947 graduate of Carr Creek High School of Carr Creek, Kentucky.

She is survived by two sons:  Brantley E. Horton Sr. (Diane) of Guyton, GA and David L. Horton (Wendy) of Sneads, FL.  A brother Robert Combs (Patty) of Mount Sterling, KY; sister-in-law Sandy Combs of Bellbrook, Ohio; nieces and their husbands, Tami Combs (David Miller) of New Albany, IN;  Nicky Combs (Michael Borchers) of Floyds Knob, IN and Rebecca Combs (Jody Powlette) of Bellbrook, OH;  nephew David Combs (Amy) of Mt. Sterling, KY; Grandson Brantley Horton Jr. of Garden City, GA; great nephews, Bradley Combs of Mt. Sterling, KY; Carson Borchers and Liam Borchers of Floyds Knob, IN; great nieces Caroline Combs, Emma Combs, and Sofia Combs of Mt. Sterling KY; step-grandsons Carlis Johnson III (Melanie) of Chattahoochee, FL and Grayton Armstrong of Sneads, FL; and step-granddaughters Mindy Wagner, Courtney Hitson, Brandy Mills, and Lexie Hitson of Sneads, FL.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Green B. (G.B.) Horton, brothers Allen C. Combs and Albert Combs, nephew Kevin T. Combs and niece Donna Miller.

Flowers are welcome or contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Chattahoochee, FL or your favorite charity.

Graveside Service will be held at 10:00 AM Eastern Time on Thursday, July 12, 2018 at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Chattahoochee, FL with Rev. Mike Kramer officiating and McAlpin Funeral Home directing. 

Dixie Charlene Wright of Sneads, Florida age 54, passed away on July 25, 2018.

She was born on August 17, 1963 in Donalsonville, GA. 

Charlene lived most of her life in Jackson County.  She enjoyed spending time with her family and going to the beach.  Charlene had a spunky personality.  She loved to laugh and make others happy through laughter.

She is survived by her daughter, Keshia Wright of Cottondale, FL; two grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Bentley Monk of Cottondale, FL; her father Louie Deese of Altha, FL; two sisters, Gail Deese of Altha, FL and Tammy Keller of Grand Ridge, FL as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Charlene was preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband of twenty-five years, Durwood Wright, Jr; her mother Ada Mae Wright; paternal grandparents; maternal grandparents; several aunts, uncles, and one great niece.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 AM Central Time on Saturday, July 28, 2018 at McAlpin Funeral Home in Sneads, FL with Rev. Juno Douglas officiating.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to services at McAlpin Funeral Home.

John Marvin Burch, 82, a resident of Chattahoochee, Florida passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, September 2, 2018 in Tallahassee, FL.  In 1956, he married his high school sweetheart, began a family and built a farm.  Marvin was a brave, honest, faithful, and hard-working family man. He was a hero to his grandchildren and always showed love unconditionally.  Marvin enjoyed fishing, farming and producing vegetables to support his family and generously give away to others.  He retired after many years of farming and serving the Jackson County School Board as a maintenance technician.  Marvin was a “daddy” to many children not just his own.  He touched many lives in the school system, teachers and students alike, and loved all children as if they were his own.  He was a beloved husband, proud father, brother, uncle, granddaddy and overjoyed great granddaddy.  Marvin will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

Marvin is survived by his precious wife of over 62 years, Geneva Burch; two daughters, Connie B. Mathers of Chattahoochee, FL and Tamelio Anne Mayo of Cypress, FL; one son, Michael D. Burch and wife Juli of Woodville, FL; one sister, Virginia Blount and her husband James T. of Grand Ridge, FL; one brother, Lafayette Burch and his wife Gwen of Grand Ridge, FL; one granddaughter, Anna Shea and three precious great grandchildren, John “Lex”, Allison, and Damien as well as many other extended family members.

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents Ruby and Jessie Lee Burch as well as two brothers, Jerome Burch and Kenneth Burch.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, September 4, 2018 at McAlpin Funeral Home in Sneads, FL from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM Eastern Time.  A Celebration of Life Home Going Service will be held Wednesday, September 5, 2018 at 10:00 AM Eastern Time at First Baptist Church of Chattahoochee with Rev. Barry Cottle, Rev. Charles Stephens and Rev. Mark Moore officiating.  Interment will follow in Shady Grove Cemetery.

John Kerry “Tater” Kirkland, 49, a lifelong resident of Sneads, Florida passed away at home, peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, September 4, 2018.  John, or as everyone knew him “Tater” was a simple man with a big heart.  He loved his family and was one of the biggest FSU fans you would ever meet. After retiring from the State of Florida, John did small engine repairs and bridge construction. He was known for being able to build and fix anything and was always working on something.  He loved to bream fish and when he wasn’t doing that, he was building smokers and cookers, and hanging out with friends by the fireside.   

John is survived by his devoted caretaker and mother, Rita Kirkland; one son, Daniel Kirkland and his mother Brenda Green of Altha, FL; one sister, Katherine Leigh and husband Donnie of Sneads, FL; one brother, Scott Kirkland and wife Tammy of Sneads, FL; one uncle, Larry Johnson and wife Brenda of Sneads, FL; three cousins, Randy Johnson and his wife Melissa and children Keely and Ethan of Sneads, FL, Tara Beloat and her husband Justin and children Mary and Jacob of Navarre, FL and Josh Johnson of Sneads, FL; six nieces, Allie Leigh, Karlie Leigh, Avery Leigh, Teri Ann Farris and husband Chad, Brandy Williford and husband Jason, Brandy Kutchey; six great-nieces, Shiley Coulliette, Addison and Abigale Farris, Haley and Kayla Williford and Hannah Kirkland; three nephews, Jeremy and Damon Leigh, David Lee Kirkland, and two great-nephews, Gabe Coulliette and Lincoln Summerlin,

John was preceded in death by his father Joel Kirkland; two uncles, Charles Johnson and Burl Johnson; one nephew, Jarid Kutchey.

Visitation will be held Thursday, September 6, 2018 at McAlpin Funeral Home in Sneads, FL from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM Central Time.  A Celebration of Life Home Going Service will be held Friday, September 7, 2018 at Sneads Assembly of God in Sneads, FL at 11:00 AM Central Time with Rev. Bill Mayo and Rev. Juno Douglas officiating.  Interment will follow in Shady Grove Cemetery with McAlpin Funeral Home directing.

Bernard Pittman, 83, of Sneads, Florida, passed peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, September 10, 2018.  He was an honest and genuine person, always willing to help anyone.  He was a hard working farmer, a proud Army veteran, and a loyal employee to Florida State Hospital for 39 years.  He loved to sucker fish, but most of all he loved his family.  

Bernard is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Carolyn Pittman; one daughter, Lisa Rabon and husband Norman of Sneads, FL, one son, Gary Pittman and wife Paige of Sneads, FL;  five grandchildren, Austin Pittman and wife Kristen, Dustin Pittman and wife Brandy, Gavin Pittman, Madison Rabon, and Mikayla Rabon, all of Sneads, FL;  two great grandchildren, Averie Pittman and Brent Pittman, of Sneads, FL;  four brothers, Enoch Pittman and wife Pat of Milton, FL, Wilmer Pittman and wife Judy of Canyon County, CA, Helton Pittman and wife Robbie of Munson, FL, Sherman Pittman and wife Pat of Munson, FL;  two sisters Louise Thomas of Munson, FL and Stella Jernigan of Munson, FL; many nieces and nephews, and a  very special caregiver Shirley Roqueplot.

He was preceded in death by his parents Hiram Pittman and Beadie (Phillips) Pittman; one brother, Horace Pittman; two sisters, Esther McCall and Ernasteen Carpenter.

Visitation for family and friends will take place at McAlpin Funeral Home Wednesday, September 12, 2018, from 5:00 PM till 7:00 PM CST.  A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Sneads Assembly of God at 11:00 AM CST with Reverend Juno Douglas officiating. Interment will follow at Shady Grove Cemetery in Grand Ridge, FL. Military Honors will be presented by American Legion Post 241 in honor of this Veteran. The family would like to acknowledge Emerald Coast Hospice for the attentive care and support given during this most difficult time.

Michelle Irene Pease Kornegay of Cypress, Florida age 49, passed away on September 15, 2018.

She was born on July 21, 1969 in Bainbridge, Maryland. 

Michelle lived most of her life in Texas until moving to Jackson County in 2004.  She enjoyed spending time with her family, going to the Grand Ridge Church of God where she was a member, crocheting, making crafts, and driving a school bus for Jackson County.  Michelle loved children and had a big heart for everyone.  She dearly loved her family and especially her precious grandchildren.

She is survived by her loving husband, Gene Kornegay; two daughters, Elizabeth Johnson (Daniel) of Nevada and Jennifer Derryberry (Jerry) of Ft. Hood, Texas; four sons, Alvah L. Johnson, IV (Tabs) of Missouri, Billy Johnson of Sneads, FL, Eddie Kornegay (Brittany) of Marianna, FL and Sherman Kornegay of Marianna, FL; her parents, Michael Wayne Pease of Sherman, Texas and Betty Irene Pease of Princeton, Texas; three brothers, Merlin Pease (RaDonna), Michael Pease, II (Rachel) and Matthew Pease (Christy) all of Texas as well as 10 precious grandchildren.

A Graveside Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:00 AM Central Time on Tuesday, September 18, 2018 at Shady Grove Cemetery in Grand Ridge, FL with Rev. Charles Hewitt officiating and McAlpin Funeral Home directing.

Mr. William A. “Billy” Campbell Sr., 73, a longtime resident of Chattahoochee, Florida passed away on Friday, September 21, 2018 at his home surrounded by his loving family.  Billy loved his shop and loved to mechanic in his shop.  He enjoyed helping others and always tried to meet their needs, no matter the obstacle.  He cherished his precious wife Wanda Sue and loved his family and friends dearly. Billy was retired from the City of Chattahoochee as Maintenance Supervisor and Fire Department Chief.  He was a beloved husband, son, father and grandfather.  Billy will be deeply missed by his family, and many friends made throughout the years.

Billy is survived by his precious wife of 52 years, Wanda Sue Campbell; one daughter, Audrey Williams and her husband Ken; one son, Bill Campbell and his wife Lali; eight grandchildren; six great grandchildren and a special friend Vince Mayo.

Billy was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Campbell and mother, Elouise Jones Campbell.

The family would like to acknowledge Big Bend Hospice for the attentive care and support given during this most difficult time and in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Big Bend Hospice or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Mr. Alton Russel Strickland, 62, passed away on Sunday, October 21, 2018 at Jackson Hospital surrounded by his loving family.  A native of Jackson County Florida, he was born on November 05, 1955.  Alton was a great sports fan especially college football, Nascar, and Golf.  He loved to fish and have fish fries with friends and family.  He loved being with his family and enjoyed traveling with them.  He will be deeply missed by his loving family and many friends.

Alton is survived by his devoted wife, Kathy Strickland of Sneads, FL; one sister Linda Jean Strickland of Panama City, FL; two brothers, Ronnie Lee Strickland (Debbie) of Jacksonville, FL, and John Alan Strickland (Pam) of Sneads, FL, and a very special Aunt Mary Lena Neel; six nieces, Deborah Leah Strickland, Deana Joy Anderson, Wendy Joiner, Kari Birge, Brandy Pittman, and Marissa Parker; two nephews, Landon Lee Strickland and Daniel Lloyd Strickland; two sisters-in-law Jan Valentine of St. Petersburg, FL and Barbara Bunton of St. Petersburg, FL

He was preceded in death by his parents Lloyd Lee Strickland and Betty Jean Alday Strickland.

Visitation with family and friends will be from 6:00pm to 8:00pm CST at McAlpin Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 23, 2018.  Graveside Services will be held on Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at 2:00pm CST at Spring Creek Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Mike Allen officiating and McAlpin Funeral Home directing. 

Ms. Ruth Dennis Barber, 89, passed away on Thursday, October 18, 2018 in Gainesville, Florida.  She was born in Hamilton County, Florida and later moved to Jackson County, Florida with her family.  Ruth was a 1947 graduate of Sneads High School.  She moved from Jackson County after graduation to Tallahassee, Florida where she resided for 32 years before moving to Grand Ridge, Florida in 1979.  For the past few years, Ruth lived in Dowling Park, Florida; but was a longtime resident of Jackson County.  She was a faithful member of Grand Ridge Baptist Church.  After thirty years of devoted service Ruth retired from the State of Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.  Ruth was an avid reader and was especially faithful in reading her Bible.  She loved quilting, cooking, and bird watching.  She loved her pets and was a mother to many dogs.  Ruth was “one more independent lady” according to her family and she would gladly tell you so.  Ruth loved her family dearly and will be missed by them and many friends.

Ruth is survived by many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents Thomas Nelson Dennis and Sarah Pauline Dennis; her husband, Jeff Barber; one sister, Fannie Maphis; and one brother, Jesse Dennis.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you donate to the charity of your choice.

A Graveside Service will be held at Shady Grove Cemetery beginning at 10:00 AM CST on Tuesday October 23, 2018 with Reverends Caron Harn and John Pearce officiating, with McAlpin Funeral Home directing.

Mrs. Oria Annette Roberts Burton, 80, passed away on Sunday, October 21, 2018 at her home with her family by her side.  She was born in Donalsonville, GA and later moved to Chattahoochee, Florida where she spent most of her life.   She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Chattahoochee. After 42 years of dedicated service at Florida State Hospital, she retired as Postmaster at FSH. Annette enjoyed traveling the U.S. with her beloved husband Sonny. Annette was an avid reader and a history buff. She loved her family most of all and enjoyed cooking for them and taking care of them in any way she could. Annette was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and sister who will be remembered with great affection.  

Annette is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Kenneth “Sonny” Burton; one daughter, Amy Burton Nobles (Glen “Sonny” Nobles Jr) of Grand Ridge, FL; four grandchildren, Matthew Burton Nobles, Natalie Nobles Mitchell (Matt Mitchell), Michael Burton Daniel (Holly Daniel), and Dylan Thomas Burton Daniel; five great grandchildren; four sisters, Betty Jean Roberts Jones (Buck) of Tallahassee, FL, Gayle Roberts Spencel (Dale), Dale Roberts Whittaker (Glen) and Karen Roberts Bodrey (Bill); one brother, Idus “Bubba” Roberts (Tina) of Donalsonville, GA and a host of extended family.  

She was preceded in death by her parents Idus Marcine Roberts and Ludie Alberta Helms; and one daughter, Lisa Burton Daniel.

Visitation with friends and family will be held at McAlpin Funeral Home on Thursday, October 25, 2018 at 1:00pm EST and a Celebration of Life Service will follow at 2:00pm EST with Reverend Barry Cottle officiating. Interment will be at Mount Pleasant Cemetery.

Mr. Douglas C. Neel, Sr., 87, passed away on Saturday, October 20, 2018 in Marianna, Florida surrounded by his loving family.  A native of Jackson County Florida, he was born on September 24, 1931.  Douglas was a veteran of the US Army and served his county during the Korean Conflict.  He was member of the American Legion Post 241 in Sneads, Florida and proudly served in the honor guard.  Before retiring as a union member, Douglas traveled the United States extensively for work as a pipe fitter and heavy equipment operator.  He was an avid fisherman and loved the Florida Gators no matter the sport.  Douglas enjoyed spending time with his family most especially his grandchildren and great children as well as watching westerns on television.  He will be greatly missed by his loving family and many friends.

Douglas is survived his devoted wife of 63 years, Mary Lena Neel; one son, Douglas Carlton Neel, Jr. and his wife Andrea of Altha, FL; three grandchildren, Meagan Hinson and her husband John Michael of Altha, FL, Douglas Carlton Neel, III of Panama City Beach, FL, and Dawn Herring and her husband Brad of Altha, FL and five great grandchildren, Grace, Harper, Mikah, Emma, and Ashley all of Altha, FL.

He was preceded in death by his parents Jefferson N. “Boss” Neel and Ella Nobles Neel; two sisters and three brothers.

Funeral Services will be held at McAlpin Funeral Home Chapel on Tuesday, October 23, 2018 beginning at 3:00 PM Eastern Time with Rev. Robert Johns officiating.  Visitation with family and friends will be one hour prior to services at McAlpin Funeral Home.  Interment will be at Spring Creek Baptist Church Cemetery in Donalsonville, GA.

Mary Irene “Marene” Campbell Roberts, age 87, a longtime resident of Sneads, Florida passed away peacefully at Washington Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Chipley, Florida, surrounded by her loved ones, on October 20, 2018. She was born January 24, 1931, in Ponce de Leon, Florida to William Campbell and Irene Weimonts Campbell. While growing up in Ponce de Leon she was a good student, a member of the female basketball team and a member of the Ponce de Leon High School band where she played the clarinet.

She remained a resident of Ponce de Leon until she was seventeen years of age when she enrolled in the Florida State Hospital Diploma Nursing program in 1948. She completed the program in 1951 and took her state boards at the age of twenty. After passing the state boards she married Fred James Roberts of Cypress, Florida who was also employed with Florida State Hospital as an attendant.

Ms. Roberts was the first nurse from Florida State Hospital to become a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner through a certificate program in Jacksonville, Florida. She worked as a nurse practitioner for a short while at Florida State Hospital  then later transferring to the Jackson County Health Department as a public health A.R.N.P. She provided public service as a women’s health A.R.N.P., was a strong advocate for women’s health and women’s issues in general. She was loved by her patients and was very proud that her three daughters and three of her granddaughters entered the field of nursing. She often jokingly said it would take all of them to replace her.

Ms. Roberts enjoyed twenty-eight years of retirement. She traveled but most enjoyed taking care of and loving her grandchildren and seeing her great grandchildren. She enjoyed family gatherings and cooking for the gatherings. She lived a life of dedication to nursing and care of patients. She loved the beauty of nature and enjoyed reading, growing plants and caring for her many cats over the years.

Ms. Roberts was Baptist by faith and a member of the First Baptist Church of Sneads. She attended and taught Sunday school as an auxiliary. She loved her Lord and did her bible studies devoutly.

Marene is survived by her son, Ronald F. Roberts of Sneads, and her three daughters, M. Arlinda Hatton (Mike) of Sneads, Guilda A. Epps of Grand Ridge and Brenda J. NeSmith (Ray) of Sneads. Ms. Roberts is also survived by her five grandchildren Bonnie NeSmith, Jennifer Brown (Jeff), LeAnna Jones (Jason), Sarah Powell (Josh) and Benjamin Hatton (Katy) and five great grandchildren.

Marene was preceded in death by her father, William Campbell, mother, Irene Campbell both of Ponce de Leon, brother, Wilbur Ray Campbell of Tallahassee, sister, Edna Earl Sims of DeFuniak Springs, and son-in-law David P. Epps of Piedmont, Alabama.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to all Covenant Hospice staff but especially to Kayla McClamma and Teresa Owens. A very special thank you to the Washington Rehabilitation and Nursing Center and its staff for opening their doors after Hurricane Michael and making our mother comfortable in her final days. Furthermore, to the angels among us Felicia Hill-Martin, Jill Bennett, Lyn Leeuw and Shirley Rudd for their unconditional care of our mother.

Graveside service and interment at Pope Cemetery, Sneads, Florida on Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at 10:00 AM CST with Rev. Michael Murray officiating and McAlpin Funeral Home directing.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org or to a charity of your choice.

Expressions of sympathy may be made online at www.mcalpinfuneralhome.com

Ollie S. Barfoot, 86, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 5, 2018 in Dothan, Alabama.  She was a lifelong resident of Jackson County Florida.   She was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church of Sneads. In past years, she served as a Sunday School Teacher and Communion Steward.  After many years of dedicated service as a Seamstress at Florida State Hospital, Ollie retired and enjoyed spending time with her family. Ollie was an amazingly strong and resilient lady filled with love for everyone she met.  She was a joy to spend time with and was loved by many.  Ollie loved to play the board game “Sorry”, but mostly enjoyed winning.  She was known as the “poet laureate” at church and as a “mother to many”.  Ollie loved to cook and was known for her legendary teacakes.  She loved her family most of all and enjoyed taking care of them in any way she could. Ollie was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend who will be remembered with great affection. 

Ollie is survived by two daughters, Kathy Dunaway and her husband Russell of Marianna, FL and Janice Brown and her husband Kenny of Sneads, FL; two sons, Elvin Barfoot and his wife Marcia of Grand Ridge, FL and John Barfoot of Sneads, FL; twelve grandchildren, Tanya Lawrence (John), Heath Barfoot (Kelly), Brigitte Rehberg (Tim), Johnny Barfoot, Randa Freeman, Rhett Wright, Chris Brown (Tammy), Jerrod Brown (Amy),Jennifer Brown, Lee Dunaway (Emily), Will Dunaway (Phyllis), and Ashley Johnson (Steve); nine great grandchildren, Maddie Barfoot, Eli Barfoot, Kyle Lawrence, Jacob Brown, Emily Brown, Tayler Johnson, Julian Dunaway, Vivian Dunaway, and Jameson Johnson; one great-great grandchild, Brayleigh White, as well as, one very special care giver and friend Vicke Gray.  

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Pete Barfoot; her parents, Hollie Edward and Lillie Ann Simpson; four sisters, Stella Wilson, Annie Laura McDaniel, Rosa Lee McDaniel and twin sister Dollie Rivers.

Visitation with family and friends will be held at Sneads First United Methodist Church on Thursday, November 8, 2018 at 10:00 AM CST and a Celebration of Life Service will follow at 11:00 AM CST with Dr. Ernie Gray, Rev. John Lawrence and Rev. Heath Barfoot officiating and McAlpin Funeral Home directing. Interment will follow at Pope Cemetery.

Flowers are welcomed; however, in lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Sneads First United Methodist Church Sound System Fund.

Mr. John B. McDaniel, 81, passed away on Saturday, November 10, 2018 in Bainbridge, Georgia surrounded by his loving family.  A native of Jackson County Florida, he was born on June 1, 1937.  John was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Sneads.  He loved to hunt and fish and spend time with his family most especially his grandchildren.  He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

John is survived by his precious wife, Vickie McDaniel of Sneads, FL; two sons, Craig McDaniel and his wife Teresa of Sneads, FL and Gary McDaniel and his wife Susan of Sneads, FL; five grandchildren, Jenna McDaniel, Brittany McDaniel, Allison McDaniel, Timothy McDaniel, and Mallory McDaniel; two great grandchildren, Carter White and Braelyn White. 

John was preceded in death by his loving wife of more than fifty years and mother of his children, Shirley McDaniel; his parents Willies and Bessie McDaniel; two sisters and four brothers.

Visitation with family and friends will be at McAlpin Funeral Home on Tuesday, November 13, 2018 beginning at 10:00 AM CST with Graveside Services following at 11:00 AM CST in Carpenter Cemetery with Rev. Michael Murray officiating.