Gwendolyn Gayle Stinson
August 24, 2025
Gwendolyn Gayle Stinson, 71, died Sunday, August 16, 2025, at home in Cantonment, FL.
Gwendolyn was born July 17, 1954 at Baptist Hospital in Pensacola, FL. She graduated from Pensacola Christian High School in 1972, Pensacola Junior College with an AA degree, then from the University of West Florida in 1978 with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education / Elementary Education. Gwendolyn started her career as a substitute teacher with Escambia County Public School District. She then was the K-2 Classroom teacher with the Pensacola Seventh-day Adventist Junior Academy for 34 years, near the end of her tenure, she also served as the school’s principal. Gwendolyn was a faithful member of the Pensacola Seventh-day Adventist Church / University Parkway Seventh-day Adventist Church. Over the years, she served as an Adult Sabbath School teacher, Adult Choir Director, Church Organist and Pianist.
She is preceded in death by her father; mother and stepfather.
Survivors include her husband of 47 years, David Bruns Stinson and a brother, Stephen D. Crowder (Debbie) of Natchitoches, LA.
A Graveside Service will be held 1:00 p.m. Thursday, August 21, 2025, at Bayview Memorial Park with Pastor/Chaplain Earl L. Jones, Jr. of North Little Rock, AR officiating.
Pallbearers will be Wilfred Wixwat, Chris Jernigain, Donna (Holland) Torre, Alexson Aranna, Greg Wise, Geoffery Pittman, Jay Hendrieth, Ray Bell.
In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial contributions be made to Emerald Coast Hospice; Baptist Health Care Foundation – Kugelman Cancer Center, or Pensacola Adventist Academy.
James David Page
August 23, 2025
James David Page Sr, 81, a resident of Honoraville, Alabama, passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday, August 9th, 2025. A celebration of his life will be held at 1:30 PM on Saturday, August 16th at United Pentecostal Church in Atmore with Brother Derek Gobert and Brother Rusty Knowles officiating.
David spent most of his professional career as a truck driver, which allowed him the opportunity to see a lot of places and meet a lot of people he otherwise wouldn’t have been able to do. At home, he loved watching sports. Didn’t matter if it was football, baseball, or racing, he was there for it! He was also a faithful and beloved member of United Pentecostal Church where he adored both his pastor and his church family. David was blessed with a servant’s heart, which was quite fitting for the gentle giant of a man he was. He was also blessed with the gift for gab and nothing, not even physical limitations, would keep him from entertaining you with stories of places you’ve never been and people you’ve never met! Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, and “Paw Paw” to his grandchildren and great-grands. There was nowhere he’d rather be than his home, surrounded by his beloved family members. He never wanted anyone to stray too far, especially his cherished wife, daughter, and favorite son-in-law, Ray. Words could not properly express how much he meant to all of them nor how much he was loved by them all, but comfort is found in the knowledge that he is now dancing on the streets of gold in his heavenly reward.
David was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Walker & Ella Mae Rose Page; siblings, Robert Wesley Page, Edmond Page, John William Page, Iva Jean Page Butler, and Charlene Gilliam Page; and niece, Rita Gail Gilliam. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 62 years, Betty Sue Yarbrough Page; their children, Patty Lynn (Mickey Ray) Stringer and Craig (Maria) Smith; grandchildren, Chelsea Lorainne (Chris) Coburn and Wesley M. (Zoe) Peebles; great-grandchildren, Lane Matthews, Sophia Renea Coburn, and Sylvia Violet Peebles who is set to make her arrival in September; siblings, Myra Ann Joiner, Janice Page Coale, William Paul (Sue) Page, and his baby (i.e. favorite) sister, Mary Jane Page; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to both their church family at United Pentecostal Church of Atmore and everyone else who prayed so fervently for David.
The family requests that any memorial donations be made to David’s church, United Pentecostal Church of Atmore.
Roger V. Grimes
August 21, 2025
Roger V. Grimes, 63, of Molino, Florida, passed away August 19, 2025. He was born in Atmore, Alabama on May 23, 1962 to Venis and Myrtle Grimes. He had a career in welding. He was a member of Pugh’s Chapel Church in Molino, Florida and had a passion for hunting, fishing, and gardening.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Venis and Myrtle Grimes.
He is survived by his son, Justin (Taylor) Grimes; grandchildren, Jase, Rayln, and Kenley; siblings, Pat (Keith) Kelley, Elsie Grimes (Chuck), Robert (Diane) Grimes, Kathy (Hayward) Mason, and Shirley Beavers; several nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles; long time best friends, Rusty Turner, Tim Daniel, Pete Jr.; trusty dog, Buster; and many other friends.
Visitation is August 25 from 1-2 prior to service time at 2 p.m. at Faith Chapel Funeral Home North in Cantonment.
Kelly Duane Davidson
August 21, 2025
Mr. , age 64, passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, in Atmore, Alabama, where he had lived his entire life. A proud member of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, Mr. Davidson was known for his strong connection to his heritage and community. He was also a devoted member of Grace Fellowship, where he found support and friendship among fellow members. His passing leaves a significant impact on those who knew him and cherished the time spent together.
He was a true outdoorsman who found joy in fishing and strumming his guitar. With a knack for fixing anything that broke, he was always ready to lend a hand. His heart was full of love for his wife and family, and he cherished the time spent on vacations with them. A proud supporter of Alabama football and a devoted Chicago Cubs fan, he wore his patriotism like a badge of honor. For twenty years, he worked as a dredge operator, driving his trusty Peterbilt and cruising on his Harley Davidson. He was the kind of person who never met a stranger, always willing to help anyone in need. He had a talent for cooking, often whipping up delicious meals for his loved ones, and he lived by the simple saying, “It Is What It Is.”
He is preceded in death by his father, David R. Davidson; grandparents, Greley and Alberta McGhee, and Ralph David and Bessie Davidson.
He is survived by his loving wife of forty-two years, Cynthia Davidson of Atmore, Alabama; mother, Evelyn McGhee Akins of Petersburg, Tennessee; two sons, Jay (Bethany) Davidson of Atmore, Alabama and Kyle (Savannah) Davidson of Atmore, Alabama; three brothers, Murray Davidson of Poarch, Alabama, Rowdy (Mona) Davidson of Athens, Alabama and Trevar Akins of Huntsville, Alabama; seven grandchildren, Wyatt Swearingen, Presley Swearingen, JD Swearingen, Blakeleigh Borders, JK Borders, Conner Seaney, and Adalyn Baker; Beloved dogs, Mingo and Freedom.
Funeral service will be held Sunday, August 24, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Petty Funeral Homes, LLC with Reverend Rajah Atallah and Reverend Richard Daniels
Burial will follow New Home Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Petty Funeral Homes, LLC.
Pallbearers will be Murray Davidson, Rowdy Davidson, Trevar Akins, Jay Davidson, Kyle Davidson and Wyatt Swearingen.
Betty L. Spiegelhalter
August 21, 2025
Betty L. Spiegelhalter, 93, of Pensacola, Florida, fondly known as Nana, passed away on August 10, 2025. She was born October 24, 1931 to Eva and Hiram Lodge. Betty retired from Escambia County School System, employed as an English teacher at Woodham High School. Throughout her life she enjoyed family and friends, gardening, had a great passion for traveling, and was a fervid reader.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Hiram and Eva Lodge; beloved husband, Robert Earl (Bud) Martin, second husband, R.R. (Spike) Spiegelhalter; and son, Timothy W. Martin.
She is survived by her brother, Danny Lodge; daughter, Debbie Dubus; son, Jimmy Martin, son, Andy (Karen) Martin; daughter-in-law, Belinda Martin; ten grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren.
Nana was a force to be reckoned with and will be deeply missed, but her love and devotion will remain with us forever.
Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 South Highway 29, Cantonment, is entrusted with arrangements
Frank Lamar Hendrix
August 20, 2025
Mr. Frank Lamar Hendrix, 67 years old, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was originally from Flomaton, Alabama, but had spent most of his life in Byrneville. Frank will be remembered for his kindness and the warm memories he created with those around him.
He was a passionate fisherman who loved spending his weekends by the water, casting his line and waiting for the perfect catch. When he wasn’t fishing, you could find him in the great outdoors, enjoying a day of hunting or grilling up a delicious meal for his family. Football season was his favorite time of year, especially when Florida State played; he cheered loudly for his team while enjoying the excitement with friends and family. In quieter moments, he relaxed by watching the History Channel or ID TV, always eager to learn something new. No matter what he was doing, having his loved ones around made everything even better.
He is preceded in death by his parents, William Bill Hendrix and Dorithy Jean Cofield Johnson; step-father, Clyde Johnson; brothers, Ricky Hendrix, Lavon Hendrix, Terry “ToTo” Hendrix; sister, Ruby Jane White.
Mr. Hendrix is survived by his loving wife of forty-six years Dee Hendrix of Byrneville, Florida; son, Josh (Crystal) Hendrix of Festus, Missouri; daughter, Jessi (Roland) Hall of Byrneville, Florida; two brothers, Tim (Melody) Johnson of Cantonment, Florida and Jim (Melissa) Johnson of Flomaton, Alabama; two sisters, Jeannie Moye of Century, Florida; Linda (Bernard) Zimlich, of Bay Minette, Alabama, two grandchildren, Zane Hendrix and Ezra Hall.
Funeral Services will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025 at 4:30 PM at Petty Funeral Homes, LLC with Tom Kimmons and Jessi Hall officiating.
Visitation will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025 from 4:00 PM until 4:30PM at Petty Funeral Homes, LLC.
Pallbearers will be David Carden, James Dewberry, Shorty Madden, Ricky Lambeth, Brian Newby and Baxley Raines
Ronnie Ray Jackson
August 20, 2025
Mr. Ronnie Ray Jackson, who was 76 years old, sadly passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at his home, where he was surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Atmore and spent most of his life in Poarch, Alabama. Ronnie will be remembered for the warmth he brought to the lives of those who knew him.
He was a beloved figure in the Poarch community, known for starting the Poarch Christmas Parade and being a passionate Alabama fan. He loved coon hunting and treasured time spent with his family and friends. As a father and grandfather, he was dedicated and caring, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone he met. His contributions were significant, especially in the REC Department, where he played a key role in laying the gym floor. In 1985, he helped establish the Poarch Fire Department, transforming it from a volunteer service to a professional department, serving as chief from 1985 to 2022. He also made his mark as a former Tribal Council Member and served on various boards, including NAYO and NASA. Over the years, he coached countless kids and adults in baseball and softball, leaving a lasting impact on many lives.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Alton and Mable McGhee Jackson; wife, Deborah Jackson; brother Larry Jackson; great-grandson, Brayden Jackson.
Mr. Jackson is survived by his two sons, Ronald Scott (Tammy) Jackson of Wetumpka, Alabama and Ernest “Bubba” Rolin of Poarch, Alabama; two daughters, Nioma (Shawn) Till of Frisco City, Alabama and Tammy (Mike) Gaffrey of Atmore, Alabama; two brothers, Don (Marcia Ann) Jackson of Brewton, Alabama and Eddie “Dinky” Jackson of Atmore, Alabama; sister, Catherine Sells of Poarch, Alabama; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Funeral service will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 11:00 AM at McCullough Christian Center with Reverend William Bubba Rolin and Reverend Steve Breceda officiating.
Burial will follow Judson Creek Indian Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Friday, August 22, 2025 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at McCullough Christian Center.
Pallbearers will be Robert Johnson, Kevin Baggett, Spencer Williamson, Cade Langham, Dylan Byrd and William Ervin.
Honorary Pallbearers will be All Former Poarch Softball Teams.
Petty Funeral Homes, LLC Atmore, Alabama is in entrusted with of all arrangements
Ann Staff
August 14, 2025
Mrs. Ann Staff passed away on Thursday, August 14, 2025, in Atmore, Alabama. She was born on September 5, 1938, in Cullman, Alabama, and spent the majority of her life in Atmore. A devoted member of Saint Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church, she was known for her passion for Alabama football, NASCAR, and her enjoyment of watching “Gunsmoke” with her beloved husband. Ann took pleasure in sewing and creating garments, and cherished moments spent at their beach house in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Family meant everything to her, especially her grandchildren, and many affectionately called her “Mama Ann.”
She served as the mayor’s secretary for the city of Atmore and later worked as the secretary for Ollie Strawbridge at First National Bank. Cooking and baking were among her delights, and she placed great importance on caring for those less fortunate.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 65 years, Bill Staff, of Atmore, Alabama; two sons, Bill Staff Jr. and his wife Tina from Orange Beach, Alabama, and Speer Staff and his wife Cindi from Ocean Springs, Mississippi; two daughters, Suzanne McGill and her husband Mark from Atmore, Alabama, and Leslie Brand and her husband Doug from Senoia, Georgia; one sister, Helene Taylor from Fairhope, Alabama; along with nine grandchildren Shayna, Mandy, Ashleigh, Arielle, Anna Marie, Haden, Haleigh, Cayleigh, Christen, Ashley; eight great-grandchildren Will, Corbin, Thatcher, Norah, Evvie, Charlie, Nicholas, Ella.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John (Elizabeth Tekulve) Hoehn and one sister Babara Jean Mixon.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Saint Roberts Bellarmine Catholic Church with Father Joji Chacko and Father Gordon Milstead officiating.
Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Saturday, August 16, 2025 from 10:00 AM until service time at 11:00 AM at Saint Roberts Bellarmine Catholic Church.
Pallbearers will be Brandon Strawbridge, Will Strawbridge, Chris Hein, Tanner Webster, Peter Ramsey, Stewart Kremer, and Tommy Mixon.
Although flowers will be accepted, donations may be made to Smile Train or any Catholic charity of your choice.
Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Home, LLC Atmore, Alabama is in charge of all arrangements
James Lawrence Whitehead
August 12, 2025
James Lawrence Whitehead, age 87, a longtime resident of Cantonment Florida, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025 after a long battle with COPD with family by his side.
James was born on March 7, 1938 in Belleville, Alabama to Willis Floyd Whitehead, Sr. and Marie Driver Whitehead.
He was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers and worked on construction sites throughout Northwest Florida and Alabama. He worked for a while in the bag plant at the papermill in Cantonment.
James and his wife, Carlie, enjoyed boating and fishing. In the 70’s while, living in Robertsdale, Alabama, they and their daughter, Patricia, sang as a gospel family group performing in Florida and Alabama. In the 80’s and 90’s James and Carlie performed with a local band known as the Drifters in the Pensacola area. In their later years, they sang in their church and various other churches.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Willis Floyd Whitehead, Sr. and Marie Driver Whitehead; brothers (infant), John Robert Whitehead and Jerald Wayne Whitehead; sister, Helen Emerich; his loving wife of almost 67 years, Carlie Morris Whitehead; son, Donald Ray Whitehead Sr.; and daughter Patricia Estill.
He is survived by two daughters, Lisa Davis of Cantonment and Margaret (Bobby) Boyette of Robertsdale, Alabama; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family and special friends.
Reverend Jean Comans will officiate the service, which will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Faith Chapel North in Cantonment, Florida. Visitation will be held on August 14, 2025 from 5:00-7:00 PM for friends.
Burial will be at Cottage Hill Assembly of God cemetery in Cantonment Florida. There will be no graveside service.
Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 South Highway 29, Cantonment, is entrusted with arrangements.
Jason ‘Jay’ DeWayne Brown
August 12, 2025
Jason “Jay” DeWayne Brown, 51, of Molino, Florida passed away unexpectedly on Monday, August 11, 2025.
Born April 14, 1974, in Pensacola, Florida to Wayne Brown and Donna Brown-Jernigan, Jason was a 1992 graduate of Tate High School. He was a member of East Side Assembly of God. He married the love of his life and beautiful bride, Jamie Knowles Brown, on October 25, 1997. Together they have three children: Kaylee, Kenley, and Karson.
As the owner of Brown Electric, Jason built lasting relationships with many local residents and businesses. He was a Master Electrician and a “Master Griller,”—he loved to cook delicious steak and brisket for his family and friends. A father-figure to many, Jason had many “adopted” children and did all he could to serve his community. He was affectionately known to many as “Brown Sugar” and loved cracking jokes, eating at La Hacienda with family, and singing along to Jimmy Buffett.
He is preceded in death by his father, Wayne Brown, and close friends Kevin Danforth, Curtis Finney, John “Whop-head” Webb, and Rev. Avon Fowler.
He is survived by his wife, Jamie Knowles Brown; three children, Kaylee (Gage) Gibson, Kenley Brown, and Karson Brown; his mother, Donna Brown-Jernigan; his brother, Rodney (Amanda) Brown; nephews, Kaleb (Madison) Brown and Hunter Brown; and many other loved ones.
Visitation for Jason will be held Friday, August 15, 2025 from 12:00 pm until service time at 1:30 pm at East Side Assembly of God in Pensacola, Florida, with Rev. Fred Stallworth, Rev. Jimmy Cook, and Rev. Ken Johnson officiating. Internment will follow at Poplar Dell Baptist Church in Century, Florida.
Active Pallbearers will be Gage Gibson, Ean Lundy, Hunter Brown, Kaleb Brown, Nathan Johnson, Rodney Brown, Nathan Danforth, and Jonathan Knowles.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.