Leila Mae Thayer
September 11, 2020
Leila Mae Thayer, 95, departed this life peacefully on September 3rd in her home, surrounded and comforted by her family.
Born on April 3, 1925 in Nova Scotia, Canada, Leila was the eldest of two children born to Leonard and Reta (Logan) Nicholson. Leila frequently reflected on a very happy childhood with her brother Orville (Bud), with whom she shared an unbreakable bond.
During her early twenties, Leila left her beloved Canada, and traveled to Rhode Island where she was welcomed and mentored by her uncle Ben and Catherine Nicholson. It was at this point in her life where she realized her life’s calling. Leila attended and graduated from the nursing program at Holy Ghost Hospital in Massachusetts as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and began her nursing career which spanned almost fifty years, finally retiring at age 70. While studying nursing, Leila met fellow student Maureen (Ogara) Kennan, who quickly became her best friend. They remained inseparable for the rest of her life.
During her extensive nursing career, Leila was a well-loved and indefatigable worker, devoting her time at the Providence Lying-In Hospital (later becoming Women and Infant’s Hospital), caring for women with high risk pregnancies. She also worked nights, as the charge floor nurse, at Hebert’s Nursing Home caring for patients.
In 1954, Leila married the love of her life, Harold Thayer. Together, they settled in Smithfield, RI raising her two precious children, Michael and Nancy. Following the passing of her husband, Leila relocated to Pensacola in 2000 where she spent the rest of her life near to her son and daughter, and her two beloved grandchildren, Ashley and Joseph. Leila’s children and grandchildren were the lights of her life.
Leila’s lifelong love was her family. She was never happier than when surrounded by family and friends. Holidays were especially joyful for her, as she enjoyed cooking, baking, singing, and just interacting with her loved ones. Leila had a gift for showering her love to others through baking and knitting of dishcloths to share with family and friends. Leila opened her Pensacola home to many friends during the holiday season for food and good conversations which included Barry and Paula Tweedie, M’Adele Carson, the Wallis Family, and the Wilkins Family.
In retirement, Lee discovered another passion working with children. Assisting her daughter Nancy, a teacher, Leila volunteered many hours tutoring and reading to elementary age children at Oriole Beach Elementary School. In addition to being loved by the children she mentored, Lee was also a favorite of the teachers and staff. It was not uncommon for Lee to bake hundreds of cookies during the holidays for her friends at Oriole Beach. Leila was recognized for her selfless devotion to the children and staff by being awarded “Volunteer of the Year” at Oriole Beach Elementary School, an award which she cherished.
Leila also found spiritual guidance and love through her monthly participation with her bible group, led by Janet Wells and Pat Holman. Leila was blessed to make many new friends throughout her lifetime including Mary MacMahon, Maryanne Meier, Laura Robinson, and Jane Barretta.
Leila was preceded in death by her beloved parents, brother, and husband, as well as her loving aunts Thurza and Winnie. She leaves behind her son Michael Thayer, daughter Nancy (Thayer) Virgilio, son-in-law Joseph Virgilio Jr, grandchildren Dr. Ashley Virgilio and Joseph M. Virgilio, and Valerie (Westmark) Virgilio. Other family members include Vicki Virgilio, Donna, Amanda, and Joey Masseur.
In Ontario, Canada, she leaves behind her niece, Suzanne Rowe and nephew Leonard Nicholson, his partner Diane, and their children Alexandra, Emma, and Ryan. Following his parent’s passing, Leonard became like a son to her. In Nova Scotia, she leaves behind her many beloved cousins, Sandra and Gary Matthews, the Rutherford families, the Logan family, the Small family, and the McDonald family.
In Massachusetts, she leaves behind her lifelong best friend and confidante Maureen Keenan, along with the Keenan family, Lagasse family, and Dimock family. In Rhode Island, she leaves behind many good friends and neighbors, Elizabeth and Anthony Szylin, the Schaffer & Courtot families, the Parente family, the Laferriere family, the Atwood family, the Stadnick family, the Smith family, and Carol Main and her family where many wonderful summers were shared at their family beachhouse.
Visitation with her family will be on Thursday, September 10th beginning at 4:30pm with a memorial service to follow beginning at 6:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the family asks that visitors wear face coverings and maintain social distancing.
Paul Nicholas Spettel
September 10, 2020
Paul Nicholas Spettel, 89, of Jay, Fl, passed away September 4, 2020 in Jay, FL. He was born August 26, 1931 in Bromley, Alabama. He was a retired Staff Sergeant with the US. Air Force.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Clara Hastings; three brothers, Lawrence Edward Spettel, Edward (Bo) Spettel, and Pete Spettel.
Paul is survived by four daughters, Susan Johnson, Peggy Nelson, Penny Proffitt, and Teri (Glenn) Palmer; ten grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren; and 1 great great grandchild.
James Hilton Hall
September 7, 2020
Mr. James Hilton Hall, Sr. of Atmore, Alabama left his earthly body to be present with the Lord in the early morning hours September 5, 2020. He was born June 26, 1931 to John Robert Hall and Clydie Brewer Hall. He was born in Freemanville, Alabama and lived all his life on a farm in the area surrounding Atmore. He married Naomi Stewart on September 5, 1950, and they were blessed with two children, Gayle Hanks (Michael) and James Hilton Hall, Jr. (Alice), four grandchildren, Tabitha Frazier (Mason), Cory Hanks (Courtney), Shannon Chisler (Nick), and Justin Hall (Ashley), and several great-grandchildren.
Throughout his years of work Hilton was employed by A & P, Teledyne Continental, and Hendrix Tractor Company. He loved farming and mechanic work, and he enjoyed helping others. He loved to tell many stories about his childhood, his children, and his grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Naomi Stewart Hall, his wife, Pat James Hall, his sisters, Elizabeth Reid, Ila Fuller, Nola Wise, Jimmie Johnson, and Jean Miller and his brothers, Earl Hall, Ray Hall, Gwinn Hall, and Gary Hall.
He is survived by his sister, Joyce Hollingsworth, daughter and son-in-law, Gayle and Michael Hanks of Atmore, his son and daughter-in-law James Hilton Hall, Jr. and Alice Hall of Atmore, his grandchildren, Tabitha Frazier (Mason) of Birmingham and their children, Olivia, Anna Beth, and Barrett, and Cory Hanks (Courtney) of Auburn and their children Naomi, Miriam, Olivia, and Taylor; Shannon Chisler (Nick) and children, Logan and Lorelei, and Justin (Ashley) and son, Stanley. He loved and was loved by many nieces, nephews, and friends.
He made a profession of faith in Christ Jesus in his early 20’s. He loved his church congregation, and he was an active member until recent months when his health prevented him attending. His family members are comforted to know that he is rejoicing with his family and friends who have gone on before him.
Those who are honoring the life of Mr. Hall by serving as pallbearers are his grandsons, Cory Hanks and Justin Hall, his grandsons-in-law, Mason Frazier and Nick Chisler, and friends, Ross Parham and Jerry Poulsen.
Funeral services will be held Monday, September 7, 2020 at 10:30 at the Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral with Rev. James Hill officiating.
Burial will follow at the Nokomis Baptist Church Cemetery.
Warren Edward Morgan
September 7, 2020
Mr. Warren Edward Morgan, age 54, lost his battle with cancer on Thursday, September 3, 2020 in Century, FL; where he was staying with friends during his illness.
He is survived by special friends and care givers; Kimberly, William and Josiah Carter of Century, FL and all the dear friends who loved him as a brother, uncle, as well as several other friends that he shared his love, quick wit and sense of humor, as well as kindness during his lifetime.
Warren had a passion for restoring older model Oldsmobile’s, mostly 442’s. However, he was an expert on anything mechanical. He was the type of person who whenever others were in need, was always there. He seldom said no to anyone who needed his help. Warren was a very private person, but made friends easily with his easy going way and entertaining sense of humor. If he called you friend, you were truly blessed. He will be greatly missed and remembered fondly.
Thank you to D.W. McMillian Hospital and Emerald Coast Hospice for your kindness and compassion while he was in your care. Warren spoke several times about how sweet everyone was to him.
John 14: 1-3 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’shouse are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto myself; that where I am , there ye may be also.
Graveside services will be held Saturday, September 5, 2020, 10:30 AM at Ray’s Chapel Cemetery with Bro. Jim Stickle officiating.
Pallbearers will be William Carter, Josiah Carter, and Keith Stedman.
Nora Dolores Eddins
September 5, 2020
Mrs. Nora Dolores Eddins, age 77, passed away on Saturday, August 29, 2020, in Pensacola, Florida.
Mrs. Eddins was a native of Oak Grove, FL and had resided in Pensacola, FL for most of her life. She was a member of the Olive Baptist Church.
She is survived by her son, David Bryant of Pensacola, FL; half-brother, John D. Eddins of Atmore, AL and sister, Velma M. Brown of Ooltewah, TN.
Graveside services were held Tuesday, September 1, 2020, at Godwin Cemetery with Bro. Dan Strickland officiating.
Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Homes is in charge of all arrangements.
Anna Dailey Emmons
September 5, 2020
Anna Dailey Emmons, resident of Molino, Florida, passed away on Wednesday, September 2, 2020, at the age of 70. She was born on September 14, 1949, in Selma, Alabama to the late Virgil and Helen Cook Dailey.
She is preceded in death by her husband, James Emmons; parents; and sister, Virlene Johnson.
Anna is survived by her sons, David (Krista) Dailey, Robby (Gena) Rogers, and Michael (Carrie) Rogers; daughter, Jewel Scott; grandkids, Shane Abney, Kayla Hughes, Justin Dailey, Mariah Dailey, Steven Rogers, and Allen Scott; great grandkids, Braxton Lauder, Anna Rogers, and Lane Rogers; sister, Nancy Trilling; and nephew, Ryan Trilling.
Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, September 6, 2020, at Faith Chapel Funeral Home North with Bro. Steven Zep officiating.
The family will receive friends at 2 p.m. prior to services.
Burial will be held at Pensacola Memorial Gardens on Wednesday, September 9, 2020, at 2 p.m.
Faith Chapel Funeral Home North is entrusted with arrangements.
Laurie Ann Jennings Braswell
September 5, 2020
Laurie Ann Jennings Braswell, 63, was born on April 22, 1957, in Tallahassee, FL and ran into Jesus’ arms on September 2, 2020, after a long battle with Muscular Dystrophy.
She is preceded in death by her parents, William L. and Doris Jennings, and two loving brothers, Bill and Greg Jennings.
She is survived by her daughter, Jamie Purnell (Craig); her two beautiful grandbabies, Charlie and Clara Purnell. Other special family include: James Braswell, Lisa Braswell, Jane Jennings and Penny Bemis.
Laurie was a long-time resident of Gonzalez, Florida, attending Tate High School, class of 1975. She attended Pensacola Junior College and received a degree in medical terminology where she worked at an ENT’s office until she had her only child, Jamie. She became a homemaker for many years until returning to work at Walmart in the early 2000’s.
Laurie loved studying family history with her brother Bill. As the family was long time residents of Gonzalez they enjoyed tracking their roots back and sometimes traveled to obtain historical family documents.
Growing up, she loved spending time at the family property by the bay with her many cousins. She loved sharing the stories of her childhood growing up in Gonzalez and by the bay. She loved spending time with her family and planning birthdays and holidays.
Laurie was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy in her late 30’s. Simple tasks we take for granted, like clasping a necklace around your neck, squeezing a Lysol bottle, turning a door knob or lifting your arm to turn off a light switch became impossible because her muscles were not strong enough to do it, nor did she have the dexterity. She, however, was more creative and positive in how to overcome those situations.
She was a wonderful mother and grandmother, full of selfless love and actions. She loved her grandbabies, Charlie and Clara. She would spend so much time playing with Charlie when he was younger. Charlie would sit with Grandma for hours. His favorite things to do with Grandma were melting crayons, making inventions out of cardboard boxes and sharing snacks after school. She enjoyed watching her granddaughter, Clara, grow into her funny sassy stage and we are thankful of the memories Clara will have of her.
Laurie will be missed as the most loving Mother and Grandmother, but we know she passed into Heaven’s gates running into the arms of her Savior with new strong legs and hands. That all the little things we take for granted that our bodies can do, she’s doing right now without a sense of frustration. After falling into the arms of Jesus, we are sure a celebration followed with her brothers and parents.
We are blessed to have had Mom home with us since March, where she could listen to the endless chaos, screams and giggles from her favorite people.
A private graveside service will be held for the family at Gonzalez United Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Emerald Coast Hospice, as they have provided the family with so much support since coming into their lives last September. There is no way such care would have been possible for her at home without their help. They are angels walking on earth.
Rest in Peace, Mama. You are so deserving of the rest.
Faith Chapel Funeral Home North is entrusted with arrangements.
Daniel Williamson
September 5, 2020
Daniel Williamson was born on November 2, 1977, to Kenneth and Linda Williamson in Milton, Florida. He went to be with the Lord unexpectedly on August 26, 2020.
Daniel was a devoted husband to his wife, Natasha and he loved all his children, Carolyn, Jackie, Erica, Kelsea, Ethan, Mack, Killian and Malachi with all his heart. He also loved all of his many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Although his life was too short, he touched the lives of many people. “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are” a quote by Theodore Roosevelt sums up what he and his wife teach their children and share with anyone who comes in contact with them. If you needed your car fixed, he was there. If you needed a place to live for a while, his home was open. If you needed a job, he would ask around. If you needed someone to talk to, he would listen. He always found time and love for others. He was a dedicated son to his parents and worked tirelessly to make sure they had everything they needed.
He loved the feel of the wind on his face when he rode his motorcycle. He loved spending time with his children either, tinkering with vehicles, helping with homework, building huge villages in Minecraft, playing Pokemon or just simply sitting on the steps and talking. The world is a little dimmer now that Daniel is gone, but he will live on in our hearts and through his children forever.
Per Daniel’s wishes we will be holding a private Celebration of Life. Please contact Natasha for directions. It will be an outside event.
The family requests no flowers, but memorials may be made to your favorite charity in Daniel’s memory.
Faith Chapel Funeral Home South is entrusted with the arrangements.
Gladys Moye Stanton
September 5, 2020
Gladys Moye Stanton, age 88, of Atmore, AL passed away on August 28, 2020, in Atmore, AL. She was born on July 9, 1932, to the late Ollie and Ruby Higdon Moye. She was a member of Canoe United Methodist Church.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jesse Sewell Stanton and her siblings, Earline Helton, Claude Moye and Willanette Troutman.
She is survived by her two sons, Dennis (Lee Ann) Stanton and Charles Stanton (Lisa Hudson) both of Robinsonville, AL; one daughter, Judy (Steve) Lambert of Robertsdale; AL; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren and her sister, Gertrude Smith of Robertsdale, AL.
A graveside service was held Sunday, August 30, 2020, at Canoe United Methodist Church Cemetery with Dr. Dale Patterson officiating.
For the safety of you and others, please practice social distancing requirements, though wearing a facial mask is strongly encouraged.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.
Charles Nixon, Jr.
September 5, 2020
The shining light of Charles “Donnie” Nixon, Jr. was extinguished on Friday, August 28, 2020.
He was born on December 7, 1966, to Charles and Patricia Nixon in Nashville, TN. Donnie is preceded in death by his father and survived by his mother, Patricia.
Donnie was a military man, who was very proud of his service to his country with the U.S. Navy.
Mr. Nixon is survived by his wife, Penny Crabtree Nixon; children, Jarred, Brittany, Ashley and Morgan; sister, Yvonne Nixon Kemp; his brother, Timmy Nixon and many nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.
Donnie was known by everyone that knew him as a loyal and devoted family man and friend. He was a lover of the beach and boating. He was an honest and reserved man with a fiery spirit. His mother knew him as Donnie, his grandchildren knew him as “Pop-Pop” but everyone that knew him at all, loved him. His light is one that will burn brightly, wherever it goes.
The funeral service was held at Faith Chapel North on Thursday, September 3, 2020.
His body was laid to rest in his family plot at Mount Olivet Cemetery in his hometown of Nashville, TN.
Faith Chapel Funeral Home North is entrusted with arrangements.