Bobby Lee Grant
September 16, 2025
Bobby Lee Grant, 85, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025, after a three-year battle with congestive heart failure and multiple strokes. When a catastrophic stroke on August 10, 2025 left him with no hope of recovery, his family honored his wishes and provided comfort care, allowing him to die as he lived – surrounded by the many family members who loved him, secure in his faith that he was going home to Jesus and a joyful reunion with his loved ones in heaven.
Bobby was born in Florence, South Carolina, to Wade and Bessie Grant on August 30, 1939. He moved to Pensacola with his family in 1955. He worked in commercial construction for more than 50 years, including 40 years as a general superintendent with FE Booker company, where he supervised the construction of schools, businesses, churches, and government facilities. During his last five years in construction, he worked almost exclusively at Baptist Hospital, overseeing renovations across the entire campus before retiring in 2010.
Bobby was involved in automobile racing for more than 40 years. Before computerized scoring systems existed, he scored races for Five Flags Speedway, Mobile International Raceway, and NASCAR. He built his first race car in the late 1970s, and over the next 30 years, seven drivers celebrated many wins and championships in his cars. For Bobby, the greatest thrill in racing was the roar of his engines on the racetrack and during the traditional victory laps.
As the son of a farmer, Bobby loved planting and harvesting vegetable gardens, as well as freshwater fishing. He perfected the art of frying fish and hosted large fish fries for family, friends, and coworkers. He often rode his golf cart through the neighborhood, sharing fresh vegetables from his garden. He even combined his motor building and gardening skills, plowing gardens that ranged from one to three acres with a tractor powered by a race car engine that he built.
Bobby was preceded in death by his father, Wade Grant, his mother, Bessie Grant, three brothers: Charles, Larry, and Harry, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Bobby leaves behind a legacy of love and will be greatly missed by his wife of 40 years, ReNae; his daughters, Lisa Lagergren (Gary Yates) and Gina (Eric) Miller; his son, Derek Adams; seven grandchildren: Olivia (Aaron) Schmidt, Alan Lagergren, Eric (Rikki) Miller, Lauren (Todd) Scott, Andrew Miller, Aiden Miller, and Hannah (Kendra) Halcomb; six great-grandchildren; and a circle of nieces and nephews as well as his dog, Buddy, who was his constant and devoted companion.
A visitation will be held Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, from 12:00-1:00 p.m. CT at Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 S Hwy 29, Cantonment, FL 32533, with the funeral and grave site services to follow. Interment will be at Pensacola Memorial Gardens, 7433 Pine Forest Road, Pensacola, Florida 32526.
The family asks those who wish to honor his memory to make a memorial donation instead of flowers. If you wish to honor Bobby’s love of animals, please consider donations to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). If you wish to help fight the health problems that led to his death, please donate to the American Heart Association or the American Stroke Association.
Kathy Lynn (Hadley) Cooper
September 15, 2025
Kathy Lynn (Hadley) Cooper, 69, beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at her home in Cantonment, FL.
Kathy was born on December 16, 1955, in Atmore, AL to the late Marion “Big Boy” Hadley and Gloria Jeanette Morris Glover. She was a devoted employee of Escambia County School District. Her greatest joy was her family especially all who called her “Nana”. She loved them fiercely. She was a pillar of strength and wisdom to all of her loved ones. She was a warrior that bravely battled cancer with unwavering hope, perseverance, courage, and resilience for nearly 9 years.
Kathy is preceded in death by her grandmother, Lois Gohagin, brothers-in-law, Don Schmidt and Scott Stevens.
Survivors include her loving spouse, Rick Cooper of Cantonment, FL; daughter, Jennifer (Russell) Smith of Covington, LA; son, Josh (Holly) Ray of Cantonment, FL; mother, Gloria Jeanette Morris Glover; daughter in love, Diana (Cody) Crooks of Pensacola, FL; sisters, Susan (Mike) Stiles of Opelika, AL and Angela Stevens of Pensacola, FL; stepmother, Jewel Hadley; stepchildren, Kelly Bunch, Ashley Cooper, and Bryant Cooper; sisters-in-law, Linda Jernigan & Gloria Brantley; brothers-in-law, Shannon & Buddy Cooper; numerous nieces, nephews and friends that she loved dearly.
Those that called her “Nana”: Gracie and Eli Smith, Brooklyn “Izzy” Ray, Haleigh Dove, Haley Marie Smeltzer, Hannah and Kennedy Tilley, Eric Crooks, Ella and Liam Lee, Madi Duncan, Sutton Snyder.
A Visitation will be held from 10:00am until a Funeral Service begins at 11:00am Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel, 2276 Airport Blvd., Pensacola, FL 32504, with Pastor Julian Walker officiating. Interment will follow at 2:00pm in Oak Hill Cemetery, Atmore, AL.
Active Pallbearers will be Russell Smith, Eli Smith, Ron Moore, Shannon Cooper, Robbie McLaney, and Jessy Martin.
Honorary Pallbearers are Mike Stiles and Buddy Cooper.
Emmett Otto Nall Jr.
September 15, 2025
Mr. Emmett Otto Nall Jr., age 82, passed away Friday, September 12, 2025.
Mr. Nall has lived in the McDavid community for more than 30 years coming from Brewton, AL. He loved being outside on his property looking around and enjoying nature. Mr. Nall loved attending his church. He is preceded in death by his parents – Emmett Nall Sr. and Dorothy Russell; one brother – John Nall.
He is survived by his two sons – Wayne (Sandra) Nall of East Brewton and Larry (Rhonda) Nall of Brewton; one daughter – Cynthia Nall of Brewton; one brother – Michael Nall of McDavid, FL., and a sister – June (Glenn) Hughes of Cantonment, FL.; five grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.
Graveside funeral service will be Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 11:00AM at Hopewell Primitive Baptist Church with Bro. Joey Johnson officiating with Craver’s Funeral Home directing.
Wilburn Cleo Drew
September 14, 2025
Mr. Wilburn Cleo Drew, age 93, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025, in Pensacola, Florida. A devoted family man, veteran, and pillar of his community, he leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering faith.
Born on February 28, 1932, in Lottie, Alabama, Wilburn was the son of James Alex and Ettie Solomon Drew. He grew up surrounded by a large and close-knit family that instilled in him the values of hard work, kindness, and integrity—principles he carried with him throughout his life.
Wilburn proudly served his country during the Korean War as a member of the U.S. Army’s 711th AAA Gun Battalion. His commitment to service continued with the Alabama National Guard from 1950 to 1955. These formative years shaped his deep sense of duty and patriotism.
Following his military service, Wilburn embarked on a long and successful career as a chemical operator at Monsanto, where he worked diligently for over 30 years before retiring. His dedication to his work was matched only by his devotion to his family and community.
A man of deep faith, Wilburn was one of the original members of The Point Church. His relationship with God was central to his life; he lived each day guided by Christian principles and shared that light with everyone around him.
Wilburn was also deeply involved in Masonic life. As a dedicated Mason and dual member of Carney Masonic Lodge in Atmore and Ensley Masonic Lodge in Pensacola, he exemplified the values of brotherhood and charity. He was also an active member of the Shriners organization and took great pride in transporting children to the Shriners Hospital in Tampa—a mission close to his heart.
An avid gardener with a green thumb and a love for all things outdoors, Wilburn found joy in nurturing plants and spending time under open skies. Green was not only the color that flourished under his care but also his favorite hue—a reflection of his vibrant spirit.
He is lovingly remembered by his son Barry Kirk Drew (Kymberley), daughter Tonia Anderson (Rex), grandson Barry Kirk Drew Jr. (Jessica), Jeremy Sean Drew
great-grandchildren Easton and Havanah Drew, and sister Voncile Branch.
Wilburn now reunites with those who went before him: his beloved wife Mildred Hadley Drew; son Keith Drew; parents James Alex and Ettie Solomon Drew; brother Onas Drew; and sisters Estelle Dean, Jessie Criswell, Essie Josey, and Dorothy Barber.
Those who knew Wilburn will remember him as a loving husband and father—a gentle soul whose positive outlook uplifted everyone around him. He raised his children with strength tempered by compassion and always had words of encouragement ready for anyone facing hardship: “Tomorrow will be a brighter day,” he would say—and it always was.
His wisdom lives on through another cherished saying: “You can’t do wrong and get by.” These simple yet profound words reflect the moral compass by which he lived.
No one can ever fill the void he has left behind. We are immensely grateful for every moment we shared with him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him—and may tomorrow indeed be a brighter day because he walked among us. A Service will be held on September 15, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 03:00 PM at Lottie New Home Cemetery 22555 Lottie New Home Road. Graveside service
Ellajean K. Bledsoe
September 14, 2025
Ellajean K. Bledsoe, 69, died August 28, 2025, at The Heritage at Sagewood in Grand Island NE.
Ellajean was born July 17, 1956 in Pensacola, FL, the daughter of Billie E. Bledsoe and Viva Jean Cunningham.
Ellajean graduated from Escambia High School, Pensacola, FL, in May 1974 and later moved to West Palm Beach FL. She worked in the banking industry for several years, while attending various College courses and seminars to obtain her Emergency Medical Technology (EMT) certification in August 1984. She worked with Emergency Medical Services in Jupiter FL, before moving to Atchison KS to be closer to her beloved grandmother. Ellajean worked as an EMT with the Atchison Kansas Fire Department until she completed her Fire Service Training. Ellajean was the first female fire fighter hired in Atchison, October 1986.
It was there that she discovered her passion for healing as she continued her education and later became a Physician Assistant.
She completed her Bachelor in Health Science at Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, May 1993. Ellajean worked at Riverbend Rural Health and Atchison Hospital, Atchison, KS. And then moved on to Nebraska.
Ellajean went on to complete her Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies, Emphasis on Emergency Medicine at the University of Nebraska, Omaha, NE. Dec 2001. She started working at Bryan Heart Institute Lincoln, NE and Crete Area Medical Center Oct 2008. She finally retired in Molino, FL, Dec 2018.
Ellajean was an adventurer. Often leaving for weeks to chase wild mustangs in the Rockies or hike the Grand Canyon on two replaced knees. She seldom spent an entire day relaxing on the beach. She loved traveling the world. I don’t think she missed a continent.
She had a great love for all things Doberman. Gypsy, XON, Finn and Nico. She once told a house sitter, “I don’t care if the house burns down, just get the boys out”.
Ellajean was a past member of the First Christian Church, Martha Washington Order of the Eastern Star Chapter No. 215.
She is preceded in death by her parents Billie E. Bledsoe and Viva Jean Bledsoe.
Survivors include: her sister, Patricia Storey (Greg) Molino, FL; her brother Billie E. Bledsoe, CA; several nieces, nephews, grandchildren and her beloved dobie Nico.
Wilburn Cleo Drew
September 14, 2025
Mr. Wilburn Cleo Drew, age 93, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025, in Pensacola, Florida. A devoted family man, veteran, and pillar of his community, he leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering faith.
Born on February 28, 1932, in Lottie, Alabama, Wilburn was the son of James Alex and Ettie Solomon Drew. He grew up surrounded by a large and close-knit family that instilled in him the values of hard work, kindness, and integrity—principles he carried with him throughout his life.
Wilburn proudly served his country during the Korean War as a member of the U.S. Army’s 711th AAA Gun Battalion. His commitment to service continued with the Alabama National Guard from 1950 to 1955. These formative years shaped his deep sense of duty and patriotism.
Following his military service, Wilburn embarked on a long and successful career as a chemical operator at Monsanto, where he worked diligently for over 30 years before retiring. His dedication to his work was matched only by his devotion to his family and community.
A man of deep faith, Wilburn was one of the original members of The Point Church. His relationship with God was central to his life; he lived each day guided by Christian principles and shared that light with everyone around him.
Wilburn was also deeply involved in Masonic life. As a dedicated Mason and dual member of Carney Masonic Lodge in Atmore and Ensley Masonic Lodge in Pensacola, he exemplified the values of brotherhood and charity. He was also an active member of the Shriners organization and took great pride in transporting children to the Shriners Hospital in Tampa—a mission close to his heart.
An avid gardener with a green thumb and a love for all things outdoors, Wilburn found joy in nurturing plants and spending time under open skies. Green was not only the color that flourished under his care but also his favorite hue—a reflection of his vibrant spirit.
He is lovingly remembered by his son Barry Kirk Drew (Kymberley), daughter Tonia Anderson (Rex), grandson Barry Kirk Drew Jr. (Jessica), Jeremy Sean Drew
great-grandchildren Easton and Havanah Drew, and sister Voncile Branch.
Wilburn now reunites with those who went before him: his beloved wife Mildred Hadley Drew; son Keith Drew; parents James Alex and Ettie Solomon Drew; brother Onas Drew; and sisters Estelle Dean, Jessie Criswell, Essie Josey, and Dorothy Barber.
Those who knew Wilburn will remember him as a loving husband and father—a gentle soul whose positive outlook uplifted everyone around him. He raised his children with strength tempered by compassion and always had words of encouragement ready for anyone facing hardship: “Tomorrow will be a brighter day,” he would say—and it always was.
His wisdom lives on through another cherished saying: “You can’t do wrong and get by.” These simple yet profound words reflect the moral compass by which he lived.
No one can ever fill the void he has left behind. We are immensely grateful for every moment we shared with him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him—and may tomorrow indeed be a brighter day because he walked among us. A Service will be held on September 15, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 03:00 PM at Lottie New Home Cemetery 22555 Lottie New Home Road. Graveside service
Matthew Jacob Dockham
September 14, 2025
Matthew Jacob Dockham, known to his family and friends as Jake, passed away on September 8, 2025, in his hometown of Pensacola, Florida, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on November 19, 1993, Jake was a beloved husband, father, and friend. He built a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Jake was predeceased by his father, Ronald Dockham; and mother-in-law, Judy Maglione.
Jake leaves behind his wife and partner of nearly ten years, Liz; and their two precious sons, Jalen (2) and baby Jake (7 weeks), who were the light of his life. Although his time with them was far too short, he poured every ounce of his heart into being the best husband and father.
He is also survived by his mother, Stephanie Dockham; brother, Travis Dockham; father-in-law, Phil Maglione; mother-in-law, Lindsey Duval; as well as many brothers and sisters-in-law whom he welcomed into his life through marriage and his childhood best friend, Ryan Lackey.
Nine months ago, Jake received a diagnosis of a very aggressive cancer. In the months that followed, he displayed remarkable strength, resilience, and optimism. Even in the hardest moments, his spirit inspired those around him. His love for his family carried him through unimaginable challenges, and his bravery will never be forgotten. Jake’s passing leaves his family’s hearts broken beyond words.
He will be forever missed, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of Liz, Jalen, baby Jake, and all who knew and loved him.
His family asks that those who knew Jake honor his memory by keeping his spirit alive through sharing stories, holding loved ones close, showing kindness every day and living each day with the same strength and love he showed throughout his life. Tell your loved ones how much you love them as often as you can.
In lieu of flowers we are asking for your support to help his wife and their sons during this difficult time. Any contribution, no matter the size, will help provide stability and comfort as they navigate the days ahead. Your generosity will honor Jake’s memory and help his family feel the love and support he brought into so many lives.
Donations can be made at TogetherForJake.com
Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 South Highway 29, Cantonment, is entrusted with arrangements.
Barbara Lynette Cannon
September 10, 2025
Mrs. Barbara Lynette Cannon, age 80, passed away on Monday, September 8, 2025.
She was born in Century, Florida, and has lived in Flomaton more than 55 years. She was a graduate of Jay High School.
Mrs. Cannon enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. In her younger years she loved working in her flower gardens, cooking, and visiting with friends in the neighborhood. One of her favorite things to do was shopping. She worked several jobs during her lifetime. She owned and operated a clothing store called Pauline’s located in Flomaton and Brewton. Later in life, she worked at Atmore Hospital and then Jay Hospital working in dietary department. But her favorite job was being a caregiver to her grandchildren.
Barbara is survived by her daughter, Sherry (Joel) Ellison of Flomaton, AL; her son, Kenneth Cannon of Flomaton, AL; grandchildren, Melissa Cannon, April (Cale) Simons, Jake Cannon, Leah (Dustin) Yuhasz, Kameron Cannon, and Courtney (Levi) Watson; and her great-grandchildren, Rhett Madden, Addie Lynn Simons, Parker Yuhasz, Calen Simons, Brooks Yuhasz, and Laynie Louise.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 37 years, Jerry Cannon, her mother, Bernice Bush Wise; brother, Jerry Burgess; sister in law, Louise Burgess.
Those who loved Nanny will remember her strength, her laughter, and the way she made everyone feel at home. Her legacy of love and faith will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
Funeral services will be held Friday, September 12, 2025, at 2:00 PM from the chapel of Flomaton Funeral Home with Bro. Ricky Tedder officiating and family friend Mr. Earl Jones speaking. Interment will follow in Rock Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Friday, September 12, 2025, from 1:00PM until 2:00PM at the Flomaton Funeral Home Chapel.
Pallbearers – Cale Simons, Dustin Yuhasz, Gerald Burgess Jr., Jimmy Burgess, Jeremiah Johnson, William Burgess, John Rowland.
Honorary Pallbearers – Ken Brewton, Ben Thompson, Kris Cane, Shannon Dale White.
Thomas Wilton ‘Toby’ Quimby
September 8, 2025
Thomas Wilton “Toby” Quimby, age 57, of Atmore, AL, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on September 6, 2025, at his home. Toby was born on May 23, 1968, to Robert English and Julianne Johnson Quimby. Toby is preceded in death by his grandparents, Lawrence and Minnie Quimby, and Julius and Sybil Johnson, and his brother, Robert Lawrence “Robby” Quimby.
Toby was a graduate of Escambia County High School class of 1987. Upon graduating from high school, Toby felt the calling to join his family’s business at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home. Toby graduated from the Dallas Institute of Mortuary Science and served as Sergeant of Sigma Chi. Toby passed the Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards of the United States, which he was very proud of. Toby was a Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer in the states of Alabama and Florida. He took immense pride and was known for his professionalism in his calling to serve many grieving families through a difficult time in their lives. Toby will be deeply missed.
Toby was a longtime and faithful member of First Methodist Church of Atmore. He was a die-hard Alabama Fan and loved to go hunting any chance he could. Toby cherished his family and treasured sweet memories, especially trips to Alabama Football games and Pensacola Beach. Toby was an avid skier and loved to barefoot ski in his younger years.
Toby is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 32 years, Maggie Deese Quimby; his parents, Robert English and Julianne Johnson Quimby; his sons, Blake Quimby, Brad Quimby (Samantha Roux), and Bryant Quimby; his grandson, Myles Quimby; and a host of family and friends.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Mike Von Keyserling and Bro. John Brannan officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery.
Active pallbearers will be Blake Quimby, Brad Quimby, Bryant Quimby, Shannon Hayes, Braxton Hayes and Wade Everette.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 10, 2025 from 1:00 p.m. until service time at 2:30 p.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home in Atmore, AL.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First United Methodist Church of Atmore “More than bricks”. Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Rayford Earl Jeter
September 8, 2025
Rayford Earl Jeter, age 87, of Atmore, AL, passed away on September 6, 2025. Rayford was born on July 9, 1938, to Floyd B. and Mable Ledkins Jeter in Bratt, FL. Rayford was the co-founder of Atmore Carpets and Jeter Housing Rentals. Rayford is preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 65 years, Margaret M. Jeter; his brother, Charles Jeter; and his brother-in-law, Wayne Moring.
Rayford is survived by his sons, Tom Jeter of Atmore, AL, and Randy (Brenda) Jeter of LaGrange, GA; his daughters, Dianne (Robin) Baggett of Huxford, AL, and Linda (Gary) West of Atmore, AL; his brother, Vernon (Susan) Jeter of Bratt, FL; his sister-in-law, Marcella Moring; his grandchildren: Heather, Noah, Emma and Ava Baggett, Maranda, Raylin, Rye, and Rein Lambeth, Lilly English, Brian, Russell, Aaron, David and Laura Jeter along with a host of family and friends.
Graveside services will be held Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery in Atmore, AL, with Bro. Gary West officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family asked for donations to be made to the Atmore Animal Shelter.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.