Minnie Gray Van Ling
March 3, 2026
Minnie Gray Van Ling, beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the age of 92. She lived a long and beautiful life defined by Faith, Love and generosity, she was devoted to her family.
As a proud mother of Nine children, grandmother of eighteen grandchildren, and great grandmother to ten children, her family was her greatest joy and accomplishment. Nothing brought her more happiness than gathering her children and grandchildren close, sharing stories, laughter, and meals. Her grandchildren held a particularly special place in her heart, and she loved them beyond measure.
She had a remarkable gift for nurturing both people and passions. She expressed her creativity through quilting, stitching love into every quilt she made. She found quiet joy in growing orchids, tending to them with patience and care. In the kitchen, she was a wonderful cook whose meals became cherished family traditions. Her home was always warm, welcoming, and filled with the comforting aroma of something delicious.
Above all, she had a giving heart. She consistently put others before herself and taught her children from a young age to be mindful of those who had less. Through her example, she instilled compassion, generosity, and gratitude – Values that continue to live on through her family.
Her legacy is one of faith, love, and kindness and she drew her strength from her Lord Jesus Christ. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the lives she shaped, the lessons she taught, and the love she gave so freely.
She was preceded in death by her husband of seventeen years, Charles O. Van Ling: her grandsons, Bobby J. Campbell, Ernest B. Brown and Devan A. Brown and her parents William Thomas, and Julia Inez Lindsey.
She is survived by her nine children, Ronald R (Debra) Smith, Libbie D. Robinson, Darlene (Jim) Chavers, Shelia F. Henley, Gene (Renee) Brown, Lynn (Larry) Springer, A. Wayne Brown, Willard E Brown, Shawn L. (Amy) Brown; eighteen grandchildren ; ten great grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends who were blessed to know her.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Nonie’s Place by Covenant Care, 1901 North Palafox Street, Pensacola, Florida 32501
A Celebration of life will be held March 14, at 12:00 pm at Hamiltons Pond, 243 South Pine Barren Road, McDavid, Fl 32568
Hubert Ellis Howard
March 3, 2026
Hubert Ellis Howard, age 90, of Gonzalez, Florida, passed away March 1, 2026 in Pensacola. He was born in Apalachicola, Florida, on June 27, 1935 to Houston Howard and Elizabeth Lisco Howard. He was married to Peggy Courtney Howard for 65 years.
Mr. Howard worked for Air Products and Chemicals for 34 years and Wesco Gas and Welding for 27 years. He was a member of Gonzalez Methodist Church. In his spare time, Mr. Howard enjoyed playing softball, golfing, bowling, car racing and working in his yard. Mr. Howard served his country in both the US Marine Corps and the US Navy.
He was preceded in death by his parents Houston and Elizabeth Howard; sisters Gladys Howard, Marie Weber and Essie Woodworth and his brothers J.R. Howard, Joe Howard and Randall Howard.
Mr. Howard is survived by his wife Peggy Howard; his children Tony Howard and his wife Deanna, Tim Howard, Kelly Trowbridge and Shelly and husband Wayne McArthur; grandchildren Rachael and husband Matt Smith, Kaylen Thomas, Kyle McArthur, Molly McArthur, Wesley Howard, Diandra Howard and Christopher Trowbridge; great grandchildren Paisley Thomas, Emberlyn Smith and Hendric Smith; his brothers Billy Howard and Ronnie Howard; his sister Grace Paulchek and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Gonzalez Methodist Church in Cantonment at 12:00 Noon with Pastor Andy Perry officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service at the church from 11:00 AM until Noon. Burial will be in Gonzales Methodist Church Cemetery. Faith Chapel Funeral Home North is entrusted with arrangements.
Marilyn June Taylor Brown
March 2, 2026
Marilyn June Taylor Brown, 79, passed away on February 28, 2026, in Atmore, AL. She was born in Lottie, Alabama, to Kindle and Sena Mae (Hadley) Taylor. She attended local schools in McCullough until junior high, when she transferred to Escambia County High School in Atmore. There, she met and married her first husband, Carl Ladon Watford. They were married only a few years when “Donnie” was tragically killed in a car accident, leaving her a widow at just 21 years old with two daughters, Pamela Denise Hall and Christie Michelle Watford Shannon. Only a few years later, she was introduced to John William “Boots” Teal. They enjoyed several blessed years of marriage filled with family fun and dancing. Their son, Thomas Shannon Teal, was just three years old when “Boots” was killed in a head-on collision.
By the age of 28, June had been widowed twice and was raising three small children. Some people might have given up, but instead, she went to work. It was during this time that she met lifelong friend Mrs. Betty Raley at Barton Flower Shop. There, her natural talent for decorating and design began to flourish, and she built a wonderful work family. After several years of raising her children and working, June reconnected with an old friend, William Henry Brown. Their relationship lasted more than twenty years and brought her much happiness, along with one more son, Ryan Taylor Brown. Through all the years, her strength and love remained constant.
After “Pops” passed, her dedication to her family and work never faltered. Following a cancer diagnosis, she and her oldest granddaughter set a goal for her to reach her 80th birthday. Unfortunately, she passed away two weeks before that milestone. Her passing was peaceful at home, surrounded by her children and grandchildren. With her final breath, she smiled as she joined the many loved ones who had gone before her. She will be deeply missed.
Marilyn June Taylor Watford Teal Brown is survived by her four children; nine grandchildren—Caitlin Hall, Taylor Shannon, Jonathon Shannon, Kyndall Hall, Leyton Teal, Abi Teal, Oliver Brown, Jennie Mae Brown, and Theodore Brown; and one great-grandchild, Lillie Rose Shannon.
Funeral Services will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Sardis Baptist Cemetery in Wawbeek, AL.
Visitation will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until service time at 11:00 a.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Michele Ann Turner
March 1, 2026
Michele Ann “Nana” Turner, age 62, of Atmore, Alabama, passed away on February 24, 2026. Born on July 26, 1963, in Fairmont, West Virginia. She later made her home in Alabama, where she built a life centered around family, faith, and simple joys.
Michele had a servant’s heart and a love for caring for others. She enjoyed cooking, specially making her famous lasagna, talking on the phone with loved ones, and spending time with family and friends. She loved watching soap operas, Auburn football, and treasured traveling with her husband. Michele also had a special fondness for animals and enjoyed seafood, especially oysters. She was proud of her children and grandchildren, who were the light of her life. Michele will be remembered for her warm spirit, her love for her family, and the comfort she brought to those around her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph L Cooley Jr. and Emma Louise Cooley; son, Blake Michael – Allen Turner; sister, Evelyn Owens, sister in-laws, Shirley Turner Cathy Hill; and nephew, Joey McGhee..
Michele is survived by her loving husband of 25 years, Allen Turner of Huxford, Alabama; her son, Josh Turner (Brooke) of Spanish Fort, Alabama; her daughters, Brittany Powell (Andy) of Pensacola, Florida, and Heather Merchant (Erik) of Flomaton, Alabama; ten grandchildren, Kymberlee Victor, Emmalee Victor, DJ Victor, Blake Hagen, Emma Catherine Turner, Lizzi Turner, Ford Turner, Elli Cooper Turner, McGhee Turner, and Mary Caroline Turner. She is also survived by eight great-grandchildren and her “Fur Baby Rocki” and other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at 12:00 noon at Petty Funeral Homes, LLC with Rev. Ray Ward officiating.
Burial will follow at New Home Cemetery.
Visitation will be held prior to the service from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon at Petty Funeral Homes, LLC.
Pallbearers will be Jeremy McGhee,, Clint Ramer, Olan Albritton, Ronnie Jay, Tim Albritton, Michael McGhee and Buzzy Jordan.
Honorary pallbearers will be Ed Turner, Eddie Ramer, Ronnie McGhee and Matthew McGhee.
A “special thanks” to her caregivers Kathy Lambert and Debra Riley.
Debra Ann Dawkins Ramsey
March 1, 2026
Debra Ann Dawkins Ramsey, 71, of Cantonment, Florida, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on the morning of February 26, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on May 9, 1954, in Brewton, Alabama, Debra lived a life marked by steadfast faith, unwavering devotion to her family, and a gentle spirit that touched all who knew her. She carried herself with grace, compassion, and a quiet strength rooted deeply in her love for Christ.
Debra was married to Michael Ramsey, with whom she shared the blessing of children, and together they built a life centered on faith and family. She is survived by her devoted husband of 52 years, Michael Ramsey; her children, Ashley (Joseph) Pollard and Stacy Ramsey; her granddaughters, Shelby and Sophia Pollard; her sister, Dianne (Toney) Clements; her dearest cousin, Linda Gale Franklin; along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews, near and far, all of whom she loved dearly.
Professionally, Debra was a gifted and highly respected seamstress for interior designers and decorators throughout the greater Pensacola area. She worked alongside her mother for many years, learning the art and discipline of the craft, and later took over the business after her mother’s passing. She maintained the highest standards in her work and was known for her meticulous attention to detail and deep pride in the finished product. Every piece she created reflected not only her talent but her integrity and commitment to excellence.
Debra was preceded in death by her father, Ruperd Eugene Dawkins; and her mother, Joy Lindsey Dawkins.
Her life was a testimony of perseverance through an incredibly difficult disease process. Even in suffering, her faith never wavered. She endured with dignity, courage, and an unshakable trust in God, serving as a witness to all who observed her journey. Scripture reminds us in James 1:12, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” Debra lived this promise daily.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to her compassionate caregivers at VITAS Hospice, especially Jillian and Shauna, whose kindness, tenderness, and unwavering support brought comfort and dignity to Debra in her final days. Their care was a true blessing to our family.
A celebration of Debra’s life will be held on March 8 from 3:00 to 6:00 PM at her sister Dianne Clements’ home, located at 1418 Knollwood Drive in Cantonment, Florida. All who knew and loved her are warmly invited. We would love to see everyone as we gather together to honor her life, share memories, and celebrate the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.
Though her family grieves her earthly absence, they find peace in knowing she is whole, restored, and rejoicing in the presence of her Savior. Her legacy of faith, love, strength, and devotion will continue to shine through the lives she shaped and the hearts she touched.
She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.
Luman Ray Biggs
March 1, 2026
Luman “Ray” Biggs, 88, of Atmore, AL, passed away February 19, 2026, in Savannah, GA. He was born on July 8, 1937, in Lottie, AL, to Ernest Biggs and Neoma Green. Ray was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ whose faith redirected the course of his family for generations to come. His life was anchored in a deep love for God and a sincere love for others, expressed through daily prayer, faithful study of God’s Word, and a quiet generosity that touched countless lives. He leaves behind a spiritual inheritance far greater than any earthly possession and a legacy of many lives transformed by the Savior he loved and served so faithfully.
Ray is preceded in death by his parents, Ernest Biggs and Neoma Green Biggs; his spouse, Duane Gunnels Biggs; his grandson, Cory Ladd Jones; his three sisters, Nell Presley, Dorothy Little, and Ernestine Raspberry; and his six brothers, Leroy Biggs, John Thomas (J.T.) Biggs, Gladden Biggs, Otha Biggs, Lloyd Biggs, and Melvin Biggs.
Ray is survived by his daughter, Felicia Carlton; his grandson, Eric Jones; his two daughters-in-law, Carmon Jones and Dana Jones; his five great-grandchildren, Kennedy Jones, Dagan Jones, Addison Jones, Madelyn Jones, and Garrick Freese; all of his many nephews and nieces that he loved with all his heart; and a host of other family and friends.
Funeral services will be held Monday, March 2, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home Chapel in Atmore, AL, with Bro. John Loper and Bro. Richard Daniels officiating.
Interment will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spanish Fort, AL.
Visitation will be held Monday, March 2, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. until service time at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home.
Joan Mae Johnson
March 1, 2026
Joan Mae Johnson, born on April 12, 1934 in South Dakota, entered eternal rest on February 23, 2026, after a life well-lived and full of love and laughter. She was raised around the Colton, South Dakota area, where she learned the values of hard work and kindness that she carried throughout her days.
Joan dedicated numerous years to working at the Avon Manufacturing facilities, where she retired to enjoy the simple pleasures in life. Her favorite pastime after retirement was bird watching, finding joy in the colorful cardinals and red roses that she lovingly tended, creating a beautiful view that reflected the beauty she carried within.
Her faith and spirituality were a guiding light in Joan’s life, providing her with strength and solace in both moments of happiness and times of sorrow. Her legacy of love and compassion will forever be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to have known her.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Lyle Johnson; her son, Robert Stark; and her stepson, Randy Johnson.
Joan is survived by her daughter, Pam Neal (Wayne); and son, Darin Johnson (Lucy); as well as her loving sister, Dorothy Reurink. She will be dearly missed by her grandchildren, Mike Neal (Olivia), David Neal (Melissa), Aaron Neal (Tammie), Lori Edgington (Tony), Brandy Enright (William), Kylie Johnson, Katie Vargas (Andy), Kevin Johnson, Nicole Chavez (Adrian), Drew Johnson (Toni), Colleen Thake; along with multiple great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
As we bid farewell to Joan Mae Johnson, we celebrate a life of love, and a deep connection to nature. May her spirit soar high with the birds she cherished, forever remembered in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date in Colton, South Dakota.
Charles Floyd Winters
February 25, 2026
Charles Floyd Winters, 87, of McDavid, Florida, passed away on February 21, 2026. Born on July 23, 1938, in Byng, Oklahoma, Charles—affectionately known as Charlie—was a steadfast and principled man, cherished for his loving and caring nature.
He dedicated 25 years of his career to Brown & Root in Houston, Texas, before contributing significantly to various enterprises in Florida after receiving his State of Florida General Contractor’s License. Some of the companies he worked with included Deep South Cranes, Grundy Marine, Oden-Hardy Construction, and John Fayard, Inc.
Charlie was deeply rooted in his family and faith and was a member of Ray’s Chapel Baptist Church in McDavid, Florida. His passions included building construction and maintaining his yard—activities that reflected his no-nonsense, hands-on approach to life. A man of strong faith, Charlie lived out his beliefs through his actions. His hobbies reflected his enduring work ethic, his love for practical creativity, and his appreciation for the outdoors.
Charlie met his beloved wife, Susan Milstead Winters, in 1986 while working at the Champion Paper Mill in Cantonment, Florida. They were married in Cantonment on August 8, 1988, by Susan’s grandfather, Reverend Thomas E. Givens. His legacy continues through his children: Donna (Chris) Hansen, Deacon (Laura) Winters, LeeAnne (Steve) Brown, Weston Winters, Travis Winters, Kayla Winters, Luke Winters, and Elise (Chase) Helton; his siblings, Sue (Craig) Hoppe and Johnny Winters; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and his brother-in-law, Carl Milstead. He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Geneva Winters; his sister and brother-in-law, John and Joyce Purcell; his niece, Megan Hoppe; and his mother-in-law, Betty Lou Milstead.
Visitation will be held at Faith Chapel Funeral Home – North on March 4, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held on March 5, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., with burial to follow at Farm Hill United Methodist Church (1251 Muscogee Road). Immediately following the graveside committal, a celebration honoring Charlie will be held at Harvest Christian Center (1095 Muscogee Road) with food and fellowship.
Charlie will be remembered as a cornerstone of his family—a God-fearing man whom many looked up to. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, and brother, always ready to lend a hand or share his knowledge.
Milford L Dees
February 25, 2026
Milford L Dees went home to be with his Lord on February 20, 2026 after a brief, aggressive battle with cancer. Born in Jay, Florida, he was a lifelong resident on Northwest Florida; he did travel a little, but was happiest when he was home.
He graduated from Tate High School in 1957, and joined the United States Army Reserves, serving for 8 years. He worked at Chemstrand/Monsanto for 35 years, retiring in 1992.
In 1960, he married his high school sweetheart Carol (Miller) Dees, and they were happily married for 47 years, until Cookie’s death in 2008.
In 2013, he married Patricia (Arnette)Dees, and was a faithful husband until her death in 2024.
He is survived by his two daughters – Denise (Keith) and Carolyn (David); two grandchildren, Ben and Rachel; a beloved sister-in-law, Frances; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Services will be held at Faith Chapel North in Cantonment, Florida, on Friday, February 27, 2026 at 10:00 am. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, that the money be donated to your favorite charity.
Kathryn V. Mondrone
February 25, 2026
Kathryn V. Mondrone, age 98, entered into eternal rest on February 17, 2026. Kathryn was born on May 6, 1927, a beloved daughter of Ida Smith and Alvin Lawson. She was a devoted sister to Alvin, Frances, Vernie, Walter, and Raymond.
Kathryn is preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband, Daniel A. Mondrone, and her son, Daniel Mondrone.
Kathryn leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Donna Godfrey (Bob), Denise Vasilenko (Greg), and Kathryn Samuel; her son, Kurt Mondrone (Diane); twelve grandchildren; nineteen great-grandchildren, along with many extended family members and friends.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home Chapel.
Kathryn’s life was a testament to faith, dedication to family, and quiet strength. Her love and guidance will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.
“Her children arise up, and call her blessed.” ~ Proverbs 31:28
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.