Betty Lou (Cardwell) Pippins
March 30, 2026
Betty Lou (Cardwell) Pippins, 96, passed away March 26, 2026. She was born on March 20, 1930 to Hilma and Magnolia (Nicholson) Cardwell. After the death of her mother, she lived with her grandmother Bessie Mama. She graduated from Tate High School in 1948. She was a member of Aldersgate Methodist Church, Molino Historical Society and the Eastern Star. She thoroughly enjoyed her jobs at the Molino Post Office and Molino School.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her grandmother; her husband, Donwood Pippins; her daughter, Patsy Pippins Slater; her sister, Joyce Cardwell; and her stepbrother, Charels Lord.
She is survived by two sons and one daughter, Doug (Tina) Pippins, David (Tammy) Pippins, Cindy (Jonnie) Pippins Gibson; one sister, Carolyn (Robert) Flowers; two nieces; thirteen grandchildren; twenty-seven great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren. She has many cousins and dear friends. She loved them all and enjoyed their visits.
The family appreciates the many blessings of her church family and friends. Also, a special thank you to the Lifecare Center in Pensacola for their care and compassion. The services will be officiated by Jim Reece and Jimmy Cook on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 with a visitation at 10:00 a.m. and a funeral at 11:00 a.m. Her burial service will be to follow at Aldersgate Methodist Church Cemetery.
Charlene Joan Rounsaville
March 25, 2026
In Loving Memory of Charlene Joan Rounsaville
January 11, 1938 – March 23, 2026
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Charlene Joan Rounsaville, aged 88, on March 23, 2026: a cherished former schoolteacher, devoted wife, and loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Joan leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness.
Born in Atmore, Alabama, Joan graduated from Escambia County High School in 1957 and earned her degree in English education from Howard College (now Samford University) and a master’s from the University of New Mexico.
She first married Lee Douglas Coker Sr., a military serviceman, and after 18 years together, endured his passing with grace.
Joan dedicated herself to teaching at Escambia County Middle School, where countless students found inspiration and guidance under her nurturing care. She later married Donnell Rounsaville, a fellow educator, and their union flourished in shared passion and community commitment.
Joan is preceded in death by her parents, Charles James White and Thelma Opal Tullis White; both husbands; her son Lee Douglas Coker Jr.; and her siblings, Maurice Earl White, James Riley “Pete” (Gerry) White, and Thelma Jean (Aubrey) Till.
She is survived by her son, Charles (Mishalene) Coker; daughter-in-law, Felicia Brantley Coker; stepchildren, Steve (Darlene) Rounsaville, Clay (Holly) Rounsaville, Robert Rounsaville, and Kathy (Orbi) Gonzalez; as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, March 27, 2026, at Oak Hill Cemetery in Atmore, AL, to celebrate Joan’s life and legacy, with Rev. Arnold Hendrix officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Marilyn Lynn Dannelley Luker
March 25, 2026
Marilyn Lynn Dannelley Luker, 70, of Atmore, AL, passed away on March 24, 2026. Marilyn was born on May 29, 1955, to Johnny and Irma Wall Dannelley.
She owned and operated Moma Marilyn’s Day Care for many years and loved her Daycare Babies.
She enjoyed Alabama football, fishing, shopping, dancing, and spending time with her family; she especially loved her grandchildren and her pets: Sassy, Cocoa, Deeder, and Buddy.
Marilyn is preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Heather Luker; her grandchild, Butterbean, and one great-grandchild.
She is survived by her son Stevie (Dawn) Luker of Atmore, AL; her daughter, Amber (Glendon) Harrison of Atmore, AL; her sister, Reginia (Wayne) Barrow of McCullough, AL; two grandchildren, Alanna Johnson, Jacob (Gracie) Luker; and 7 great-grandchildren, Farrah, Jaiden, Jase, Makenleigh, Stetson, Emily and Wrenley.
Funeral Services will be held Friday, March 27, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Richard Daniels officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Atmore, AL.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home.
Active Pallbearers will be Leo Luker, Jonathan Luker, Noah Luker, Jacob Luker, Jed Dukes, and Ryan Linam. Honorary Pallbearers will be Glendon Harrison, Eric Hall, and Wayne Barrow.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Leo Edward Amerson
March 19, 2026
Mr. Leo Edward Amerson, born October 28, 1934, in Bratt, Florida, to Rob and Lottie Amerson, passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026, peacefully after a life rich in hard work, family, and simple joys. Leo served his country honorably in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1957, aboard the submarine tender USS Sperry.
Leo was one of seven children, growing up alongside his brothers RJ, Pete, Jerald, James, and Dewey, and their sister Vera. He shared a close bond with his family and was blessed with many nieces and nephews.
He was the proud father of one son, Eric Edward Amerson, and a loving grandfather to Chase Edward Amerson (Katie); Angela McMorris who remained a cherished part of the family. He was also a cherished great-grandfather to Amelia and Charlotte, who brought him great joy. He also leaves behind many others whom he considered family and friends, all of whom will greatly miss him.
A hardworking man by trade, Leo spent much of his life as a roofer. He worked alongside his brother Pete for many years before establishing his own path, repairing and building roofs throughout the community. Even into his 80s, Leo continued working, always willing to lend a hand—often refusing payment if he knew someone was in need. Leo found happiness in the simple things. He enjoyed fishing and spending time at his waterfront cabin at Hubbard Landing. He also loved playing Rook and dominoes, sharing laughter and stories with those around him. He lived in Canoe, Alabama, for over 30 years and built a life surrounded by community and connection. Leo never met a stranger and was known for his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He had a deep appreciation for others and truly enjoyed the company of those around him.
Leo lived life on his own terms—with humor, grit, and a generous spirit. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, kind heart, and the lasting impact he made on those who knew him.
Graveside services will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Godwin Cemetery with Chase Amerson, Gary Amerson and Pete Amerson III officiating
Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Petty Funeral Homes in Atmore.
Pallbearers will be Pete Jr. Amerson, Jeff Amerson, Rick Amerson, Bobby Amerson, Kevin Amerson & Pete Amerson III.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Wade Amerson, David Amerson Jr, Chris Amerson, David Amerson & Drew Amerson.
Eunice Euline Nall
March 19, 2026
Eunice Euline Nall, age 96, of Cantonment, Florida, passed away on March 12, 2026.
She was born in Bogia, Florida, on September 25, 1929 to Arthur and Nunie Smith. Eunice found purpose in her work as a homemaker and was a member of Highland Baptist Church. She had a passion for flowers, fishing, family, and the Poarch Creek Indians.
Eunice was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur Smith and Nunie McGhee Smith; three of her sons; and her numerous siblings.
She is survived by her daughter, Mary Manning; her son, Arthur (Pamela) Kleinatland; her sister, Judy Amos; her brother, Ronnie Smith; her numerous grandchildren; her numerous great-grandchildren; and her numerous nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held for Eunice at Ray’s Chapel Cemetery on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with Henry Johnson officiating.
Kelly Ann Price Nigh
March 18, 2026
Kelly Ann Price Nigh, 54, left us for her heavenly home on Friday, March 6, 2026, surrounded by her family and friends after a courageous and fierce battle with cancer. She was born to Myrtle and Fred Price on February 24, 1972 in Pensacola.
She is preceded in death by her mother, Myrtle. She is survived by her husband of 34 years, Bobby Nigh, her loving son and daughter in love, Gavin (Amanda) Nigh. She was the best “Keepee” to grandson Walker and a loving and dedicated daughter to her Daddy, Fred Price. Sisters include Cheryl Benton, Kym Willnecker (Tommy), Cathy Ciccone (Steve) and sister from another mother, Maria (RiRi) Blackmon. Brothers are Gavin Price (Mary) and Jimmie Martin (Stephanie). She leaves several nieces and nephews and many cousins who were all very special to Kelly. Kind-hearted and caring with an open ear for all, Kelly was a lifelong resident of Beulah and a volunteer for the Beulah Volunteer Fire Department which she served and supported faithfully. She was an advocate for all animals: cats, dogs, goats, chickens, and especially horses. She was in love with the staff and kids of Kingsfield Elementary School. Too many friends to count, they were her second family and she loved them all.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Windy Hill Baptist Church, 9896 Rebel Road, Pensacola, Florida. Family visitation from 1-2pm with the service to follow.
Honorary pallbearers are Floyd Heist, Nathan White, David Barretto, Stacy Schultz, Phillip Polk and Bill Armstrong. Donations may be made to Windy Hill Baptist Church or a charity of your choice.
A very special thank you to Dr. Yazan Al-Sayed and his amazing staff at Sacred Heart Cancer Center. He recognized how special Kelly was. His compassion and sensitivity made a difference.
Melvin Franklin “Buck” Powell
March 18, 2026
Melvin Franklin “Buck” Powell, 82, of Atmore, Alabama, passed away on March 14, 2026. Buck was born on October 14, 1943, in Century, Florida, to Mark and Mabel Powell.
He grew up in Flomaton, AL, where he graduated from Flomaton High School. Buck went on to attend Auburn University, where he graduated in 1966 with a B.S. in Education. He also received his M.S. in Educational Leadership from Troy University in 1983.
Coach Powell began his teaching and coaching career at Lyeffion High School in Evergreen, AL., and then at Greenville High School. In 1970, Coach made a move that had a huge impact on his life; he became the head coach at Century High School. During his six seasons leading the Black Cats, his teams went 46-15-2. Coach Powell was named Escambia River Conference Coach of the Year in 1973, 1974, and 1975. Also in 1975, he was named Florida Coach of the Year.
In 1976, Coach Powell was named the Athletic Director and Head Football Coach at Escambia County High School. During his tenure, the Blue Devils were 33-17 in region play. In 1983, the Blue Devils posted a record-setting season of 13-2 and won the 3A Alabama State Football Championship. Coach Powell was also named Alabama Football Coach of the Year.
In 1984, Buck transitioned into administration as the Assistant Principal at Escambia High School. In 1955, he became the Principal at Rachel Patterson Elementary School. He loved being involved with younger children. He developed a new cream entitled “Sore No More’, a magic wand that could cure stomachaches, and he couldn’t wait until Storybook Week to see what storybook character he would be.
In 2000, Buck was appointed Superintendent of Education for Escambia County Schools, and he shifted his focus to serving teachers and students across the county. During his tenure, the State of Alabama was hit with a financial crisis, and school funding was cut drastically over the next several years. Buck turned his efforts to passing a millage tax that would ensure that funding was available at the local level to continue to provide a quality education for our students and support to our teachers. The referendum was passed, and Mr. Powell retired from public education in June of 2006.
During his retirement, he enjoyed deep-sea fishing with his best friend, Roy, woodworking, anything related to Auburn University sports, and just piddling.
Mr. Powell is survived by his wife of 46 years, Mary Bess Faircloth Powell; his 2 daughters, Kelli Shelley and Joei Buck (John) of Bay Minette, AL., and his son, Mark Powell (Katie) of Mountain Brook, AL. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.
Additional survivors include his sisters Evelyn Downing (Bill) of Flomaton, AL, and Jean Goodwyn (Tyler) of Gulf Shores, AL.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Martin Franklin Powell and Mabel Brantley Powell, and his sister, Judy Champion.
Mr. Powell was a member of First Methodist Church of Atmore, AL.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., at First Methodist church of Atmore, AL. Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 17, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until service time at 2:00 p.m. at First Methodist Church of Atmore. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Atmore, AL.
Active Pallbearers will be Tony Brown, Toney Simpson, Dabney Langhorne, Larry Stuckey, Carl Ward, Robby Jaye, Scottie Flowers, Frank Taylor, Jon Dees, George McMillian, Ron Middleton, Homer Brown, and Mike Stacey.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the More Than Bricks Campaign (Educational Building Renovation) at First Methodist church, Atmore, AL, in memory of Buck Powell.
We would like to thank Dr. Jonah McIntyre, Atmore Community Hospital, Atmore Nursing Center, and Southern Care Hospice for the compassionate and loving care of Buck during his illness.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Martin “Buddy” Upshaw, Jr
March 18, 2026
Martin “Buddy” Upshaw, Jr., 80, of Pensacola, passed away Tuesday, March 10th, 2026.
He was born in St. George, SC on June 4, 1945 to Martin Upshaw, Sr. and Susan Thomas Upshaw. Buddy retired from NAS Pensacola flight line in 2000, he also worked at NADEP Pensacola after serving in the Air Force as a helicopter mechanic during Vietnam. He had a passion for working on cars, spending time at the drag strip, and sharing his knowledge of fixing things with his children.
He was preceded in death by both of his parents, Martin Upshaw, Sr. and Susan Upshaw.
He is survived by two sisters, Linda Tippin, and Pam (Kim) Huggins; two stepchildren from a previous marriage, Anissa Allen (Willie Gaines), Preston (Denise) Minton; children, Eric (Tammy) Rathburn, Janina Upshaw, Jennifer Pollmeier, and Janelle Schroeder (Chris Tucker); his beloved grandchildren, Kendra, Preston, Shelby, Xavier, Dustie, Raven, Jade, Paige, Drayton, Donovan, and Link; along with six great-grandchildren; and multiple nieces and nephews that he adored.
Pallbearers: Eric Rathburn, Preston Minton, Ryan Huggins, Drayton Schroeder, Chris Tucker, and Willie Gaines.
Franklin Nelson “Frankie” Bell
March 18, 2026
Franklin Nelson “Frankie” Bell, 81, passed away peacefully at his home in Atmore, Alabama, on Saturday, March 14, 2026. Frankie was born in Century, FL on July 10, 1944. He was a devoted husband, father, and longtime football coach whose life was marked by dedication to his family, his community, and the many young athletes he mentored throughout his career.
Frankie was a graduate of Flomaton High School in Flomaton, Alabama, Class of 1962. As a senior, he was named to the 1961 All-State Football Team. After high school, he attended Mississippi State College, where he earned his bachelor’s degree and proudly played football for the Bulldogs for all four years. He graduated with the Class of 1966.
Upon graduation, Frankie began his coaching and teaching career, from 1965-1968 in Talladega, Alabama. He later transferred to Haralson County High School, Tallapoosa Georgia, where he coached for six years (1968-1975) with the Rebels. He then came to Escambia County High School, in 1976. He remained a cornerstone of the Escambia County High School faculty and athletic program until 2005, finishing his career as Head Football Coach, as well as, contributing to the athletic program as the school’s tennis coach. During his tenure, Frankie and the coaching staff led the ECHS Blue Devils to a State Championship in 1983. Simultaneously, through his 39 years at ECHS, he was a part of the Summer Recreation Program until his retirement.
Throughout his years at Escambia County High School, he became known for his strong defensive teams, shutout games, and his deep appreciation for the athletes and students who came through the program. When asked in an article with The Atmore Advance during his retirement why he never left Escambia County, Frankie simply replied, “When you come to a place, it’s your home. This is still going to be my home. I never found a reason to go anywhere else.”
In retirement, Frankie cherished time spent with his family and rarely missed the opportunity to attend their extracurricular activities. Frankie also enjoyed caring for horses, a passion he had carried with him since his younger days. He took his love for coaching, and turned that into personal training as a Wellness Trainer with Poarch Creek Indians.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis Nelson Bell and Elvia “Inez” (Knowles) Bell.
He is survived by his beautiful wife of 39 years, Althea Bell; children Michael Bell of Texas, Jeffrey (Kelley) Bell of Flomaton, Alabama, Holly (Jane) Bell of Atmore, Alabama, Brian (Emily) Bell of Walnut Hill, Florida, Brent Bell of Atmore, Alabama, and Brooke (Coty) Rolin of Poarch, Alabama; along with 14 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.
Pallbearers will be Ricky Colbert, Carl Ward, Raymond Robinson, Hank Lee, Tomorrion Barnes (T-Bone), and Ron Middleton.
Honorary pallbearers include former players, coaching colleagues, and faculty members who had the privilege of working alongside him and witnessing the lasting impact he made on generations of students and athletes.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home. Interment to follow at New Home Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, March 18, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Jonah McIntyre and Southern Care Hospice for the compassionate and loving care given to Frankie during his illness.
The family would also like to extend a special thank you to Kaylee Sanspree and Melvin Middleton for their care and coordination before, during, and after Frankie’s passing.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Carol Ann (Ward) Driver
March 17, 2026
Carol Ann (Ward) Driver passed away on March 12, 2026, at Baptist Hospital in Pensacola, Florida. She was 83 years old.
Carol Ann was born on September 14, 1943, in Atmore, Alabama, at Greenlawn Hospital to Ernest and Frances Ward. She was raised in Walnut Hill, Florida, and later in life moved to her husband James Lloyd Driver’s home in Loxley, Alabama.
She graduated from Ernest Ward High School in Walnut Hill, Florida, where she was honored as Senior Class Homecoming Queen, Drum Major, and Lead Majorette. Her senior class also voted her “Beauty.” She was active in sports and played both softball and volleyball.
Carol Ann was a lifelong member of Walnut Hill Baptist Church in Walnut Hill, Florida, where she attended faithfully for many years. Later in life, after moving to her husband James Lloyd Driver’s home in Loxley, Alabama, she regularly attended Loxley Church of God, now known as Loxley Church, while continuing to return to Walnut Hill Baptist Church for special gatherings and homecoming services.
Carol Ann loved her family and was known for her joyful spirit. She enjoyed laughing, baking, cooking, playing the piano, watching westerns, and getting her hair and nails done. She especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends and cherished every moment shared with them.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Frances Ward; her brother, Jeff Ward; her husband, James Lloyd Driver; and her daughters, Lisa Littles and Lynn Driver.
She is survived by her children, Lana Pulido (Raul Pulido), Luci Parmer (Bryan Parmer), and Horace Lloyd Driver.
She is also survived by her grandchildren, Reid Carrillo, A.J. Sappenfield, J.D. Sappenfield, Justice Smith, Samantha Langham (Chase Langham), Raul Pulido, and Sabrina Pulido.
She is further survived by her great-granddaughter, Lennox Langham.
She is also survived by her siblings, Judy Eicher (Wallace Eicher) and Harry Ward (Judy Ward).
Carol Ann will be remembered for her warmth, laughter, and the love she shared with her family and friends. Her senior quote was, “Leave with no tears and few regrets.”
Active pallbearers will be Reid Carrillo (grandson), Raul Pulido (grandson), Vic Eicher (nephew), Brett Ward (cousin), Chase Langham (granddaughter Samantha Langham’s husband), and Julio Atenza (family friend).
Honorary pallbearers will be A.J. Sappenfield (grandson), J.D. Sappenfield (grandson), Justice Smith (grandson), Lloyd Duncan (brother-in-law), Tim Gibbs (niece Gina Gibbs’ husband), Charles Driver (cousin), and Jeff Smith (family friend).
Ladies of the Privy Chamber will be Kathy Baker (sister-in-law), Katherine Breeden (sister-in-law), Marilyn Bridges (cousin), Lynn Wilson (family friend), Sue Crook (caregiver and family friend), and Neak Charnease (family friend).
Ladies in Waiting will be Samantha Langham (granddaughter), Sabrina Pulido (granddaughter), Lennox Langham (great-granddaughter), Mary Helen O’Quin (cousin), Joyce Dempsey (family friend), and Alicia Williams (family friend).
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Sue Crook, her caregiver, for the kindness, compassion, and friendship she shared with Carol Ann.
Visitation will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 18, at Loxley Church with Lead Pastor Kevin Mills, located at 5220 S Hickory Street, Loxley, Alabama 36551.
Celebration of Life funeral services will follow at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, at Walnut Hill Baptist Church with Lead Pastor Ted Bridges (cousin), located at 5741 Arthur Brown Road, Walnut Hill, Florida 32568.
Burial will follow in the Driver family plots at Walnut Hill Baptist Church Cemetery, where Carol Ann will be laid to rest beside her husband, James Lloyd Driver.
Arrangements are being handled by Mack Funeral Home in Robertsdale, Alabama.