Mallory ‘Bonzie’ Kermit Gibson, Jr.
August 9, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Matt Gibson, a man whose kindness, generosity, and love for others will be remembered forever. Matt left us far too soon, but we find comfort in imagining that God had a special job for him—perhaps touching up the heavens with his painter’s brush, blending the colors of eternity just right.
Matt was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan, cheering on his team through every high and low. His passion for football was matched only by his passion for helping others. Known for his big heart, Matt would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need—often without a second thought.
He spent his professional life as a talented painter, taking pride in his craft and in the beauty he left behind in every project. His work was not only a career but an art form, a reflection of his patience and skill.
Matt is survived by his loving mother, Patricia Brunelle; his brothers and sisters, Randall Gibson, James Gibson, Terry Smith, Pamela Sanders, and Annette Franklin; his children, Miranda Gibson, Dalton Gibson, Jesse Gibson, Cody Gibson, Timberly Carey, and Tonya Taylor; and his beloved grandchildren, Elijayah Salter, Rosalina Curry, Adrianna Taylor, Jackson Taylor and Jayce Gibson.
He was a proud uncle to many nieces and nephews, including Mallory Gibson, Darieon Gibson, Owen Gibson, Brittney Gibson, Tamara Gibson, Amber Gibson, Wesley Gibson, Devon Whitbey, DJ Whitbey, Jason Smith, Brandon Smith, Abby Smith, Gracie Smith, Zachary Smith, Alexis Smith, and Gabby Smith. Each one held a special place in his heart.
Matt’s legacy is one of generosity, laughter, and love. Though our hearts are broken, we know the world is more colorful because he was in it—and heaven is surely brighter now that he’s there with a paintbrush in hand.
A celebration of Matt’s life will be held on August 16 at 10:00 AM at West Florida Funeral Home at 1200 W Gadsden St. Pensacola, FL 32501 followed by a short graveside service at Whitmire Cemetery, where family and friends will gather to share stories, remember his life, and honor the man who gave so much to everyone around him.
“Perhaps they needed a painter in heaven,
To make the golden streets shine.
God called you home to add your touch,
And left your colors here with mine.”
Cory Sylvester Odom
August 8, 2025
Mr. Cory Sylvester Odom, aged 47, sadly passed away on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at his home. He was originally from Flomaton, Alabama, and had been living in Brewton, Alabama, for the last fifteen years. His presence in the community will be deeply missed.
He had a passion for the great outdoors, delighting in hunting and fishing whenever he could. As a skilled Pyrotechnician, he brought joy to many with his dazzling fireworks displays. Riding four-wheelers was one of his favorite pastimes, and he never missed a chance to cheer on Auburn football. In the evenings, he enjoyed relaxing with shows like NCIS and Tulsa King. Family meant everything to him, and he cherished spending time with his children and grandchildren. He also loved getting his hands dirty, tinkering with motors, cars, and trucks, using his welding skills from years of experience in construction. Every moment spent doing what he loved brought him happiness.
He is preceded in death by his father, Sylvester Odom; sister, Becky Spears, grandchild, Noah Buckhault.
He is survived by his mother, Sandra Odom (Jim Meskill) of Flomaton, Alabama; wife, Dana Lianne Odom of Brewton, Alabama; four sons, Travis Odom, of Flomaton, Alabama, Trent Odom, of Century, Floirda, Logan Odom of Brewton, Alabama, and Braeden Odom of Brewton, Alabama; two daughters, Brooke (Shannon) Buckhault of Evergreen, Alabama and Alexis Odom of Brewton, Alabama; four sisters, Joyce Petty of Atmore, Alabama, Mary Edna (Doug) McKee of Meridian, Mississippi, Cindy Gordon of Flomaton, Alabama, Debbie (Robert) Cash of Flomaton, Alabama; grandchildren, Dawson Buckhault and Liam Buckhault.
Funeral services will be held Monday, August 11, 2025 at 12:00 PM at Petty Funeral Homes. Brother Jim Meskill officiating.
Burial will follow at Emmons Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Monday, August 11, 2025 from 11:00 AM until service time at Petty Funeral Homes.
Pallbearers will be Brady Harris, Cole Harris, DeWayne Pugh, Chris Blackmon, Blake Godwin and Steven Powell.
Betty Jean Weeks Thomley
August 7, 2025
Betty Jean Weeks Thomley, age 82, of Perdido, AL went to her Heavenly Home to be with her husband and son on August 2, 2025 in Bay Minette, AL. Betty was born on February 6, 1943 to Burl Weeks and Louise Brock in Robertsdale, AL. Betty is preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Braxton Thomley, Sr; her son, William Timothy Burl Thomley; her parents; and her siblings, Frances Weeks, June Townson, Bobby Weeks, and Robert Weeks.
Betty is survived by her children, Joey (Sherry) Thomley of Perdido, AL, and Donna (Randy) Carpenter of Perdido, AL; her grandchildren, Hayley, Adam, Alex, Danielle and Donyel; eight great-grandchildren with one on the way; her sisters, Glenda Godwin of Oak Grove, FL, and Wanda (Johnny) Mosley of Andalusia, AL; and a host of family and friends.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 7, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Splinter Hill Holiness Church in Perdido, AL, with Bro. David Baggett officiating. Interment will follow in Bryars-McGill Cemetery.
Active pallbearers will be Joey Thomley, Hayley Thomley, Adam Thomley, Camron Ganey, Brandon Rolin, and Hayden Thompson.
Honorary pallbearers will be Grantlee Thomley and Hunter Ganey.
Services were held Thursday, August 7, 2025, at Splinter Hill Holiness Church in Perdido, AL.
Karyn Ann Turner
August 7, 2025
Kayrn Ann “Kay” Turner, age 75, of Pace, FL, passed away on July 26,2025, peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family. Kay was born on March 28, 1950, to the late Rev. J. R. and Nell Turner in Montgomery, AL, and was raised in Atmore. A 1968 graduate of Escambia County High School, Kay attended Orlando College Medical Education Center, majoring in the Medical Assistant Program. She retired from Covenant Hospice, Pensacola, FL in 2007.
An avid reader, Kay enjoyed cross-stitching, watching English movies and series, and loving her dogs and cats. She was a member of Pensacola United Methodist Church.
Kay is survived by her two sons, William Turner McMurphy, Pace, FL, and Justin Tate McMurphy, Niceville, FL, sisters, Sheila Broughton (Dan), Opelika, AL, and Janice T. Smith (Mike), Canoe, AL. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Lauren and Luke McMurphy of Santa Rosa Beach, FL., and numerous nieces and nephews.
Graveside services were held on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at Oak Hill Cemetery in Atmore, AL with Bro. Paul LaSala officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the charity of your choice or The Florida Australian Cattle Dog Rescue @ australiancattledog.rescueme.org/florida.
The family would like to thank Vitas Hospice and Granny Nannies for the kindness shown to Kay and her family.
Thomas Taylor
August 7, 2025
Thomas Taylor, 57, of Pensacola, passed away on August 07, 2025. He was born in Pensacola, Florida on July 20, 1968, to Tony and Barbara Taylor. He was married to Mary Taylor for 35 years. Thomas had a career in utilities for Emerald Coast Utilities Authority. He had a passion for racing and spending time with family.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Taylor; son, John (Toni) Taylor; daughter, Jennifer (George) Bower; granddaughter, Amelia Bower; sister, Lynita Taylor; mother-in-law, Pat Warren; father-in-law, Tommy Warren; and lots of other friends and family.
Services will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at Faith Chapel Funeral Home North. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m.
James Dickey Avirett, Jr.
August 6, 2025
James Dickey Avirett, Jr., 68, passed away July 31, 2025 after a long battle with cancer. Jimmy, as he was affectionately known, was born in Dothan, Alabama on July 18, 1957. However, he lived nearly his entire life in Cantonment, Florida, growing up on Well Line Road. He began working at St. Regis Paper at the age of 19 and retired from International Paper after 44 years of dedicated service. He was very proud of his work at the Paper Mill.
Jimmy was preceded I death by his parents, James Dickey Avirett, Sr. and Carol Jane Avirett.
He is survived by his sons, Matthew Avirett and Brian (Christina) Avirett; and step daughter, Amanda (Justin) Canfield with his former wife, Cynthia Avirett; 5 grandsons, Hunter Bentley, Shayne Avirett, Dylan and Kyle Canfield; 2 step daughters, Brittney and Shannon Glass with his current wife, Angel Avirett; 4 grandchildren, Dallas Owens, Chase, Riley and Pressley Ritchey.
In his spare time, Jimmy really enjoyed digging for old bottles. He had a real appreciation for antiques and relics of the past. Jimmy also had an appreciation of his family heritage and had books on the subject. He really enjoyed fishing and boating with his kids and grandkids. He would also spend time taking the kids to Spring Lake and hiking around different areas in nature. Jimmy was a family man, he loved all the kids and they loved him right back. Jimmy will be missed tremendously by all who knew him.
Charles Marion Cooper
August 5, 2025
Mr. Charles Marion Cooper, who was 61 years old, passed away on Friday, August 1, 2025, in Atmore, Alabama. He was born in Pensacola, Florida, but spent most of his life in Bratt, Florida. Mr. Cooper was a valued member of the Bratt First Baptist Church, where he brought joy and support to his community. His presence will be missed by all who knew him.
He had a vibrant personality that lit up every room, he was a beloved figure in the community, known for his infectious enthusiasm for life. An avid Alabama football fan, he spent countless weekends cheering on his favorite team at games, often surrounded by friends and family who cherished his spirited nature. His grandchildren were the brightest part of his life, bringing him endless joy and happiness. He loved spending time with them, whether it was playing games, telling stories, or just enjoying a quiet moment together. Beyond the thrill of sports, he was a dedicated prankster who could always be counted on for a good laugh. His love for helping others shone through in his community work—whether it was lending a hand with yard work or providing meals for those in need. For many years, he worked at Cooper Grocery Store, where he not only delivered fresh produce to local stores but also created lasting friendships, as he never met a stranger. Passionate about connecting with others, he traveled across the region offering payment solutions to local businesses, always emphasizing the importance of community and connection in all he did.
Mr. Cooper is preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Doris Troutman Cooper; son, Bryant “Coop” Cooper; brother, Carl Cooper.
He is survived by his loving wife, Dianne Cooper of Bratt, Florida; son, Austin (Lorri) Cooper of Bratt, Florida; step-daughter, Kayla Kresta of Bratt, Florida; sister, Judy (Robert) Gilmore of Pensacola, Florida; three grandchildren, Ella Chason, Lakelyn Chason and Ava Jane Cooper; numerous cousins.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 7, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Petty Funeral Homes, LLC., Reverend Josh Long officiating.
Burial will follow at Godwin Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 6, 2025 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Petty Funeral Homes, LLC.
Pallbearers will be Bill Smith, Wesley Webb, Mark Lewis, Byron Vaughn, Greg Vaughn, Todd Wiggins, and Mike DIgmon.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Steve McGill, Mark McGill, and Bryan McGill
Tammie Knowles Penegar
August 4, 2025
Tammie Knowles Penegar passed away in her home surrounded by family and friends on the morning of July 31, 2025. She was born on December 28, 1964 to her parents in Atmore, Alabama. She was her Mother’s Darling Darlene. Tammie spent most of her life as a resident of Cantonment, Florida.
Tammie loved being a mom to her children Branden and Tyler. She was also “mom” to their many friends whom could be found at her house at any time of the day or night.
Tammie worked in the cellular industry for 12 years. She then worked for a period of time for Don Cotton in estate sales.
As Tammie lived a life of being a Christ follower, she was led to teach Sunday School and be a Youth Leader for many years at Gonzales Methodist Church where many youths’ lives were changed for Christ.
Tammie was preceded in death by her son, Branden Heath Penegar, and by her parents, Frankie and Nora Knowles. She leaves behind her husband, Elbert “Bert” Penegar and her son, Aaron Tyler Penegar. Also left behind are all of the kids who called her “mom” along with many people who called her friend.
Funeral services for Tammie will be held on Saturday, August 09, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 S Highway 29, Cantonment, Florida, with a visitation on August 07, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM.
Interment will immediately follow the funeral at Cottage Hill Baptist. A reception to follow at the funeral home for family and friends. Reverend Dr. George Dunn will be officiating.
Pallbearers will be Aaron Tyler Penegar, Trevor Berry, Kendall Hendry, Kevin Gray, Cade Bowman, and Bryant Walsh.
Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 South Highway 29, Cantonment, is entrusted with arrangements.
Dortha Clinton
August 1, 2025
Dortha Clinton, age 95, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025 at Homestead Assisted Living. She was born on March 29,1930 in Knoxville, Tennessee to Charlie and Josie Sherouse. She has been a resident of Pensacola for 72 years. She married Grady Clinton in Georgia on May 11, 1947.
Dortha worked at Monsanto, Ensley Elementary School and Barrineau Park School.
She went to nursing school to become an LPN and worked at Sacred Heart hospital until she retired.
She was a member of the Eastern Star and reached the status of Grand Matron.
She worked with the rainbow girls and chaperoned them on their outings. She was a member of Beulah Baptist Church and enjoyed helping organize the many fund-raising dinners. Her favorite thing to do was baking and reading her large collection of cookbooks from many areas. She and her husband were members of the Good Sam camping club and enjoyed camping in many states with their family. They were also members of a square dance group.
She is survived by her husband, Grady Clinton; children, Sandra (Kenneth) Kulpa, Teresa (Dennis) Reid, Charlotte (Paul) Schwartz; grandchildren, Angela (Chris)Pilcher, Melissa Reid, Jennifer (Rob) Davies, Christine (Aaron) Schultz; great-grandchildren, Savannah (Cade)Parker, Ryan Pilcher, Jordan Reid, Evelyn Davies, Ethan Davies; great-great-grandson, Landon Reid; and younger sister, Betty Gipson. Also, many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents Charlie and Josie Sherouse; brothers, Clarence, Elbert and Marion Sherouse.
Visitation will be August 6 at 10 a.m. at Faith Chapel North prior to the funeral service at 11 a.m. A graveside service will follow at Union Hill Cemetary on West Fairfield Drive.
Heather Harris
August 1, 2025
Heather Harris, a vibrant soul who left us too soon, passed away on July 15, 2025. She was born on April 16, 1986. Heather’s life was filled with love, laughter, and a deep connection to the world around her.
Heather had a profound passion for collecting unique rocks and found peace spending time outside near a riverbank or on the water, fishing pole in hand. Her radiant smile and truly contagious laugh brought joy to all who knew her. Heather had a heart that loved deeply, whether it was for people or her simple pleasures.
Heather’s greatest dream was to be a mother and give her children the best life possible. Her love for them knew no limits, and everything she did was with their future in mind.
She is lovingly survived by her six beautiful children: Elijah Chase, Hadleigh Lou, Chason Riley, Sieanna Lynn, David Michael, and Myla Naygeh, each a unique reflection of her strength, love, and spirit.
Heather is also survived by her devoted mother, Nikki Harris; her father, Ernie Blair; her beloved maternal grandfather, Tommy Harris; and her paternal grandmother, Mary Blair.
Heather’s memory will live on through her loving sister, Courtney Boyett, and her half-sister, Felicia Blair. She was a proud aunt to her cherished nieces and nephews: River, Leland, Parker, and Lanie. She is also remembered by her uncles, Elton Blair and her aunts, Leigh Anne Mabry and Christi Oppenhien.
Heather’s love, laughter, and light live on in each of her children and in the countless hearts she touched throughout her life. Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find comfort in knowing she is now at peace, free from pain, and watching over us with that same bright smile we will never forget.
Rest easy, Heather. You will be deeply missed, always remembered, and forever loved.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, August 1 from 6-8 p.m. at the Molino Community Center.