Sara Blackburn (‘Nana’)
September 6, 2023
It is with the deepest sorrow and immense love that we announce the passing of Sara Aileen Jennings Blackburn, affectionately known to everyone as “Nana.” A pillar of love, kindness, and unfaltering support, Sara left this earthly realm to join her mother and father, Sara and Fred, her Aunt Nannie, and her brothers, Fred and Wayne, in Heaven.
Born to a loving family on May 22nd, 1956, Sara grew up in a household that emphasized the values of compassion and community-qualities she carried with her throughout her life. As a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Sara’s selfless love touched everyone who knew her. Her warm embrace was a refuge, her laughter was infectious, and her sweet gentle spirit was a joy to all she met.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and enduring relationships, particularly with her devoted husband of forty-two years, Rex. Together, they built a life filled with joy and purpose, and instilled these same values in their children: Jonathon and his husband Chris, Matthew and his wife Candice, Marc and his wife Kaitlin, and Hunter and his wife Laura.
A proud and loving grandmother, Sara cherished every moment with her grandchildren: Addison, Alexis, Raeleigh, Deacon, Brooks, and Bryce. Her beautiful, kind spirit will continue to live on in them and the future generations of the Blackburn family.
Sara is also survived by her sisters, Susan Hagan and Kathy Jernigan (Cecil), sister-in-law Marilyn, brother Lee (Susan), mother-in-law Myrtle (“Granny”), sister-in-law Linda, sister-in-law Kathy Blackburn, cousin Kim Carlson, and her nieces MaryAnn Jennings, Laura Jennings, Caitlin Jennings, Kaye Jernigan, Sydney Jernigan, Meghan Stackhouse, Natalie Stroman, and many great nieces and nephews.
In life, Sara was an active and beloved member of her community, particularly her congregation at Gonzalez Baptist Church, where her devout faith and warm spirit lifted up all those around her. Her absence will be felt deeply within this community and many others.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the pallbearers, nephews Scott Jernigan, Robert Jernigan, Philip Jernigan, Steven Jennings, Sawyer Jernigan, Fred Jennings, Chris Jennings, Mike Jennings, and Andy Blackburn, along with Chad Hetherington and David Gaines, for their love and support. Special thanks to honorary pallbearers Joe Murphy, KC Fehl, Packy Mitchell, Terry Smith, Gary Peters, and Jeff Hoffman for their enduring friendship and care for Sara.
As we mourn the loss of a remarkable woman, we also celebrate her beautiful life, knowing she is at peace, embraced by the love that she so generously gave throughout her life. Sara will be remembered with immense love and affection by her family, friends, and community. We are all better for having known her, and her spirit will continue to inspire us all. Sara loved her weekly bowling league family, her Ransom Middle School family and special friends Richard, Mary, Joe, Nubia, and Terrie, and her choir family at Gonzalez Baptist.
The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Sara’s name to her beloved Gonzalez Baptist Church Choir, Covenant Care, or UAB Gift Records (specify Alzheimer’s Research).
We invite all who knew and loved Sara to join us in celebrating her remarkable life and legacy. There will be a visitation for family at Gonzalez Baptist Church on Saturday, September 9th from 11:00-12:00, and a general visitation from 12:00-2:00. A funeral service to honor Sara’s life will be held at 2PM, followed by a committal service at Gonzalez Methodist Church. Following the service, a reception will be held at Gonzalez Baptist Church for all who would like to attend.
Sara may have left this world, but she will forever remain in our hearts. Hers was the very definition of a life well-lived.
Rest in Peace, Nana. We love you always and forever.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
Faith Chapel Funeral Home North is entrusted with arrangements.
Cantonment House Fire Caused By Charging Lithium-Ion Batteries; Fire Department Warns Of Battery Dangers
September 5, 2023
A residential fire in Cantonment on Labor Day Monday was sparked by lithium-ion batteries, the third such fire in two weeks in Escambia County. That prompted the fire department to warn residents of the dangers from charging batteries.
Firefighters responded to the 300 block of Homeland Avenue about 9:30 a.m. They arrived to find a garage fire that had extended to a nearby car. The home suffered heavy damage, but can be reoccupied with extensive repairs, according to Escambia County Fire Rescue. There were no injuries.
ECFR determined the cause of the fire to be lithium-ion batteries charging in the garage. This was the third fire in Escambia County in two weeks caused by lithium-ion batteries.
Two previous house fires were sparked by lithium-ion push mower batteries that were charging in garages, ECFR said.
“While battery-powered equipment such as vehicles, lawn mowers and bikes are good for the environment and reducing emissions, we want our citizens to know the dangers associated with lithium-ion batteries,” said ECFR Deputy Fire Chief Paul Williams. “These devices and equipment, when charged in your home, can pose dangers and should be monitored closely. Fires resulting from lithium-ion batteries intensify significantly and quickly, leaving little time for people to react.”
The National Fire Protection Association offers the following tips to prevent fires from lithium-ion batteries:
- Purchase and use devices listed by a qualified testing laboratory
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions
- Only use the battery designed for the device
- Put batteries in the device the right way
- Only use the charging cord that came with the device
- Do not charge a device under your pillow, on your bed or on a couch
- Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged
- Keep batteries at room temperature when possible. Do not charge them at temperatures below 32°F (0°C) or above 105°F (40°C)
- Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire
- Stop using the battery if you notice an odor, change in color, too much heat, change in shape, leaking or odd noises. If it is safe to do so, move the device away from anything that can catch fire and call 911.
Additionally, residents are urged not to put lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Batteries are considered household hazardous waste and can be brought to the Perdido Landfill year-round for proper disposal at no charge to Escambia County residents.
Photos by Kristi Barbour and others for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
School Data Clerk Accused Of Cocaine And Fentanyl Possession, DUI On Barrineau Park Road
September 5, 2023
An Escambia County Public Schools data clerk was arrested for alleged DUI and possession of drugs including fentanyl after being stopped on Barrineau Park Road.
Regina Denise Bonal, 39, was charged with driving under the influence, possession of fentanyl, and possession of cocaine.
The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported impaired driver on Highway 29 and observed the vehicle “drifting drastically onto and over the lane lines and was unable to maintain a consistent speed,” an arrest report states.
According to the ECSO, Bonal had difficulty articulating her words, her speech seemed lethargic and she was dropping items. Bonal denied any alcohol or medication.
A field sobriety test showed “extreme” impairment, and she was arrested, a report states.
A deputy observed a clear baggie on the floor that appeared to be cocaine or methamphetamine, and she replied that she would never do methamphetamine, “suspiciously omitting the cocaine”, according to the arrest report. Deputies reported finding a coffee drink container in the center console that contained numerous bags of narcotics, one of which tested for approximately 1.5 grams of fentanyl, and a wrapper in her wallet that field tested positive for cocaine residue. according to the ECSO.
The ECSO said Bonal was employed as a records clerk at Escambia High School and was in possession of two large boxes of student files at the time of her arrest. Deputies made arrangements to return the records to the school, along with her school identification and keys.
She remained in the Escambia County Jail with bond set at $4,500.
Labor Day Fires Damage Two Cantonment Area Homes
September 5, 2023
For an update on the cause of one fire, click or tap here.
Two unrelated fires heavily damaged homes in the Cantonment area on Labor Day.
A fully involved mobile home located off Coweta Road was reported about 9 a.m.
The second fire was reported in a wood frame home in the 300 block of Homeland Avenue about 9:35 a.m.
There was no immediate word of any injuries or the cause of either fire.
For more photos, click or tap here.
NorthEscambia.com photos by Kristi Barbour, click to enlarge.
Cantonment Rotary, District Governor Discuss Goals
September 5, 2023
The Rotary Club of Cantonment recently hosted District Governor Kerry Anne Schultz. She presented the goals for the district as well as those of Rotary International.
Rotary continues in the fight to control and eradicate polio as well the fight against child abuse. Schultz said she is very excited about the ambitious programs ahead for Rotary International and the local district.
Cantonment Rotary is working on plans for the annual Ted Ciano Memorial Golf Outing supporting the annual Thanksgiving food giveaway. Last year, over 1,800 people were served in the Cantonment area. More details will be coming about the September 29 golf event.
Photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
These Are This Week’s Road Construction Traffic Delay Hotspots
September 5, 2023
Drivers will encounter traffic disruptions on the following state roads in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties as crews perform construction and maintenance activities.
Escambia County:
- Interstate 10 (I-10) Escambia County Welcome Center – The truck parking lot at the Escambia County I-10 Welcome Center, located at mile marker four, will be temporarily closed until fall when the Welcome Center improvements are scheduled to be complete. The front and middle car parking lots are open.
- East Nine Mile Road (U.S. 90A) Roadway Improvements from Chemstrand Road to east of Baldridge Drive – The bicycle lanes are temporarily closed to allow crews to widen the turn lanes and construct new five-foot bicycle lanes. In addition, the speed limit has been reduced from 45 mph to 35 mph as vehicles and bicycles share the roadway. The closure and speed limit reduction will be in place until the project is complete later this summer.
- U.S. 29 (North Century Boulevard) Resurfacing between Henry Street and Cottage Street in Century – Northbound and southbound traffic on U.S. 29 (North Century Boulevard) is shifted to one outside travel lane in each direction between Rudolph Street and Green Street. The shift will be in place through September as crews perform drainage improvements. Signage will be in place to safely direct drivers through the work zone.
- Lillian Highway (State Road (S.R.) 298) Resurfacing from north of U.S. 98 to east of Fairfield Drive (S.R. 727) and Lillian Highway at Blue Angel Parkway (S.R. 173) - Drivers will encounter alternating daytime lane closures, between U.S. 98 and Blue Angel Parkway, Tuesday, Sept. 5 through Friday, Sept. 8 from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. as crews perform drainage work. In addition, drivers will encounter nighttime lane closures, between Fairfield Drive and Blue Angel Parkway, Tuesday, Sept. 5 through Friday, Sept. 8 from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. as crews perform widening and driveway work.
- County Road (C.R.) 4 over Canoe Creek Bridge – C.R. 4, between Byrneville and Bratt, will be closed through fall 2024 as crews replace the Canoe Creek bridge. Traffic is directed through a 5.6-mile detour using Bratt Road to Pine Barren Road, then back to C.R. 4.
- North Palafox Street (U.S. 29/S.R. 95) Resurfacing from Cervantes Street (S.R. 10A) to Brent Lane (S.R. 296) – Drivers may encounter alternating lane closures, between Cervantes Street and Brent Lane, Tuesday, Sept. 5 through Friday, Sept. 8 from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. as crews perform sidewalk work.
- Mobile Highway (U.S. 90) Resurfacing from Nine Mile Road (U.S. 90A) to west of Pine Forest Road (S.R. 297) - Drivers may encounter nighttime lane closures, between Nine Mile Road and Pine Forest Road, Tuesday, Sept. 5 through Friday, Sept. 8 from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. as crews mill and pave the roadway.
Santa Rosa County:
- U.S. 98 (S.R. 30/Gulf Breeze Parkway/Navarre Parkway) Resurfacing of specific areas from Abercrombie Road to Calle De Palencia Street - Drivers on U.S. 98 (Navarre Parkway), between S.R. 87 and Calle De Palencia Street, may encounter intermittent nightly lane closures from 8:30 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. as crews perform construction activities.
- U.S. 98 Widening from Bayshore Road to Portside Drive – Motorists will encounter the following traffic impacts:
- Median and turn-lane closures from Bayshore Road to Tiger Point Drive.
- Intermittent lane closures and additional median closures between Tiger Park Lane and Bayshore Road Tuesday, Sept. 5 through Friday, Sept. 8, from 9 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. for stormwater drainage improvements and paving operations.
- I-10 Resurfacing from S.R. 281 (Avalon Boulevard) to east of S.R. 87 – Motorists will encounter nighttime east and westbound lane closures Tuesday, Sept. 5 and Thursday, Sept. 7 from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. for paving operations.
- U.S. 90 Bridge Replacement over Simpson River – The outside (right) lane of U.S. 90 eastbound on the Simpson River Bridge will be closed Tuesday, Sept. 5 and Wednesday, Sept. 6 from 8 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. as crews receive delivery of construction materials. Drivers are reminded that the speed limit is 35 mph throughout the work zone.
- U.S. 98 Routine Maintenance Near the S.R. 87 Ramp – Motorists will encounter intermittent southbound lane closures Tuesday, Sept.5 from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. for striping operations.
All activities are weather dependent and may be delayed or rescheduled in the event of inclement weather.
Sunny Skies, High In The Low 90s
September 5, 2023
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 92. Light and variable wind becoming southeast 5 to 10 mph in the morning.
Tuesday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 69. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph.
Wednesday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 70. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Thursday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2pm. Sunny, with a high near 95. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Thursday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 72. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
Friday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2pm. Sunny, with a high near 95. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Friday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 71. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Saturday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93.
Saturday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly clear, with a low around 69.
Sunday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 93.
Sunday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly clear, with a low around 68.
Monday: Sunny, with a high near 95.
Pictured: Labor Day Monday sunset in North Escambia. NorthEscambia.com photo, click to enlarge.
Florida Gas Prices Fall Over The Last Two Weeks
September 5, 2023
Florida gas prices have followed a downward trend through the past two weeks with the state average declining 17 cents per gallon.
On Monday, the state average price for regular gasoline was $3.70 per gallon.
In Escambia County, the average was $3.46 Monday night. A low of $3.35 could be found in North Escambia at a station on Highway 29 in Cantonment, while Pensacola prices were as low as $3.22 on Nine Mile Road.
“Although gas prices have recently declined, Florida drivers paid the most expensive Labor Day gas prices since 2012,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Where pump prices go from here is unclear, because oil and gasoline futures prices are moving in opposite directions.”
NorthEscambia.com photo.
Escambia County 4-H Labor Day Classic Cow Show Winners Announced
September 5, 2023
The fifth annual Escambia County 4-H Labor Day Classic Cow Show was held at the Escambia County 4-H agriculture facility on Highway 99 in Molino.
Youth from Northwest Florida, Central Florida and Alabama showed their cows including prospect steers, market steers and heifers, highlighting the hard work put into them.
Winners included:
- Prospect Steer: Sarah Alexander of Pensacola Grand Champion: A.T. Bridgers of Cantonment Reserve Grand Champion
- Market Steer: A.T. Bridgers of Cantonment Grand Champion; Mallory Mahoney of Cantonment, Reserve Grand Champion.
- Heifers: Jack Trejo of Walnut Hill Grand Champion; Tucker Padgett of Molino, Reserve Grand Champion
Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Helen Boone Ward
September 5, 2023
Helen Boone Ward was born to William and Leah Boone in Dyas, Alabama on May 2, 1923. She went to be with her Lord on September 2, 2023. Her 100 years were filled with faith, family and love.
She is preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Marshall Ward; her son, James “Jim” Ward; her parents, William and Leah Boone; her brothers, Daniel and Rhondal Boone; her nephew, William “Billy” Boone and her son-in-law, Richard O’Quin. She was a lifetime member of Walnut Hill Baptist Church. She was a retired library clerk with Ernest Ward High School.
She is survived by her daughters, Marilyn Ward Bridges (Ted) and Mary Helen Ward O’Quin; her daughter-in-law, Martha Ward and also by her eight grandchildren, Reverend Ted Bridges (Somer), Jason Ward, Marshall Ward Bridges, Leah Bridges Taylor (Seth), Shane Bartczah (Adam), Kelly Wicker (Jim), Grant Williams, Wayne Williams (Sherri) and nine great grandchildren.
Special thanks to her caregivers Rebecca Denair, Sandra Iutzi, and Barbara Loewen. Also, Jerry Poulson who lovingly cared for her lawn.
Funeral services will be held Sunday, September 10, 2023, at 3 p.m. at Walnut Hill Baptist Church with Reverend Ted Bridges officiating. Interment will follow in Walnut Hill Baptist Church Cemetery.
Active pallbearers will be Bret Ward, Horace Ward, Scott Ward, Heath Ward, Russ Ward and Roy Glenn Ward.
Honorary pallbearers will be Jerry Poulson, Tim Gibbs, Wesley Foster, Harry Ward and Lloyd Driver.
Visitation will be held Sunday, September 10, 2023, from 2 p.m. until service time at 3 p.m. at Walnut Hill Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the Walnut Hill Baptist Church.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.