William Golsen ‘Billy’ Gates Jr.
October 4, 2025
Mr. William Golsen “Billy” Gates Jr., age 78, sadly passed away on October 3, 2025, in Atmore, Alabama, surrounded by his loving family. He was originally from Selma, Alabama, but spent most of his life in Atmore. Billy was known for his kind heart and the joy he brought to those around him, leaving behind cherished memories for his family and friends.
In his early years in the military, he was a helicopter mechanic. Commander Local Post 7016 VFW in Atmore was a dedicated community member known for his many contributions spending countless hours in service. He was a proud member of the American Legion and founded the Automotive Career Technology program at Escambia County High School, where he taught for 39 years. His service to his country included time spent in both the United States National Guard and the U.S. Army, with deployments to Korea and Iraq. Beyond his military and educational achievements, he enjoyed simple pleasures like drinking coffee with friends and spending time at NAPA, where he cherished the camaraderie of those around him. Greatly enjoyed watching Westerns, NCIS and 24.
Preceded in death by his parents William Golsen Gates, Sr. and Dorothy Battles Gates; sister, Diane Southerland.
He is survived by his loving wife of fifty-five years, Linda Gates of Atmore, Alabama; son, Justin Gates and wife Sarah of Loxley, Alabama; daughter, Alison Fournier and husband Chad of Atmore, Alabama; brother, Robert Gates of Lowndsboro, Alabama; six grandchildren, Jordan, Jesse, Savannah, Darrian, William, and Anna; six great-grandchildren, Viola, Dash, Atlas, Scarlett, Maggie and Jack Sheppard; dogs Brie and Briscoe.
Graveside service will be held Friday, October 10, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Alabama State Veterans Cemetery in Spanish Fort, with Reverend Rowdy Boyette officiating.
Visitation will be held October 9, 2025, from 6-8 p.m. at Petty Funeral Homes.
Virginia (Jenny) Neil Wright
October 1, 2025
Virginia (Jenny) Neil Wright, 61, of Cantonment, Florida, passed away on September 25, 2025. She was born in Pensacola, Florida on December 10, 1963 to James and Pansy Wright.
She loved being a Nana, decorating, birdwatching, and spending time with family. She had a multitude of hobbies; painting, gardening, cooking, creating florals, crafting, and enjoying a good cup of coffee with cream.
She was preceded in death by her father, James Neil Wright; mother, Pansy Gertrude Chambers; and her brothers, James (Bo) Neil Wright, Jr. and Jonathan Henry Boland.
She is survived by her sister, Neila Wright Halter; daughters, Jennifer Lynn Kaiser and Heather Alice Pansy Spearman; grandchildren, Kaitlyn Michelle Spearman, Kaylee Rae Spearman, Austin Michael Spearman and all the Kaiser Crew; Elijah, Samuel, Annabelle, Elliott, Thomas, Theo, Naomi, and Nathaniel.
Laudie Mildred Higdon
September 30, 2025
Mrs. Laudie Mildred Higdon, 75 years old, departed this life on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, in Pensacola, Florida. She was born on October 19, 1949, in Century, Florida, and spent the majority of her life in Flomaton, Alabama.
She absolutely loved spending her time outdoors, whether it was fishing by the river or cheering on the dirt track races. Her greatest joy came from her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, with whom she shared countless laughter-filled moments. A talented cook, she made some of the best cat head biscuits that brought everyone together at the table. In her downtime, she enjoyed watching the Hallmark Channel, HGTV, and reality shows, finding comfort in their stories. Every Fourth of July, she looked forward to visiting the river at Eureka Landing for parade and fireworks. She enjoyed moments with family going to the mountains and traveling through Cades Cove watching all the animals. Her strong faith was evident as she was a devoted member of Lighthouse Baptist Church, where she especially loved being around the children, sharing her warmth and kindness with all.
She is preceded in death by her parents, James O’Pete (Mary Moore) Mathis, one sister, Peggy Mathis McDonald, one brother, Jerry Wayne Mathis, grandson, Ronnie Michael Higdon, and one daughter in-law, Heather Marie Sutton.
She leaves behind her devoted husband of 54 and a half years, Danny Higdon, from Flomaton, Alabama; two sons, Marcus Wayne (Cindy) Mathis of Century, Florida, and Daniel (Sonya) Higdon, also of Flomaton, Alabama; one daughter, Gidget (Jeremy) Dortch, residing in Flomaton, Alabama; two brothers, James Dooley (Vivan) Mathis from Bay Minette, Alabama; and Johnny (Tina) Mathis from Flomaton, Alabama; three sisters, Evelyn (Gilbert) Cozart of Jay, Florida; Gayle Mathis of Century, Florida; and Kathy Mathis Simmons of Jay, Florida; five grandchildren: Ryan Reeves, Cody Mathis, Shae Etheridge, Jakob Higdon, and Cadie Higdon; as well as three great-grandchildren, Josie Mathis, Rowdy Etheridge, and Emersyn Higdon, along with numerous other family members and friends.
Funeral services will be held Friday, October 3, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Lighthouse Baptist Church with Reverend Chuck Day and Reverend Gilbert Cozart officiating.
Burial will follow at Little Escambia Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 6-9 p.m. at Lighthouse Baptist Church.
Pallbearers will be Isaiah Day, Josh Day, Parker Bell, Nick Driver, Randy Cozart, David Cozart, and Michael McDonald.
Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Home, Atmore, Alabama is in charge of all arrangement
Max Allen Smith
September 29, 2025
Max Allen Smith, 67, of Jay, Florida left his earthly home Sunday, September 21, 2025. Max Allen was born in Century, Florida on December 9, 1957 to Max Ray and Billie Faye (Cannon) Smith. He was later blessed with a sister, Kelly R. Smith.
He was a lifelong resident of Jay, graduating from Jay High School in 1975. At 15 he started working along side his father at Big “M” Tire Center, Inc. He worked there for 53 years. He was very loyal and well known for his role at the shop.
Max Allen was blessed with three girls Julie Adkinson, Holly (Trent) Ledbetter, and Janna (Bryan) Ellis. Our favorite memories with daddy were staying in Destin, Florida every summer, all the camping trips, and late night catfishing.
Our daddy was set in his ways. You could find him at J&J in the early mornings making the first pot of coffee, sitting around talking with friends and learning the local news. In the afternoons you would find him at Williams Lake with Little Bit, his side kick. He loved the outdoors, hunting and fishing. Daddy also loved Florida Gators and Nascar.
He is proceeded in death by his mother Billie Faye Cannon Smith.
Survivors include his father Max Ray Smith; sister Kelly Smith; daughter Julie Adkinson, Holly (Trent) Ledbetter, Janna (Bryan) Ellis; grandchildren Annasyn and Olivia Adkinson, Bella, Blane, and Boone Ledbetter, and Hydie and Harper Ellis, all of Jay, Florida.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025 at 12:00 PM (noon), at Jay Funeral Chapel. Pastor Larry Pearson will be officiating. Visitation will be from 11AM until time of service.
Pallbearers will be Timmy Roberts, Jeffrey Patterson, Doyle Marshall, Josh Lloyd, Jarrett Lloyd, Steve Farish, Pete Smith, and Joey Golden.
The family asked that you dress casual or wear Florida Gator attire.
Emily Ahnelia Castleberry
September 28, 2025
Emily Ahnelia Castleberry, 84, of Cantonment, Florida, passed away peacefully, Saturday, September 27, 2025, surrounds by family. Emily was born in Prichard, Alabama and was in the area for over 75 years.
Mrs. Castleberry was a beloved wife to Kenneth Castleberry, Sr. for over 64 years, she was a mother to many and a loving grandmother to all. She was a faithful member, choir singer and nursey worker at Victory Bible Baptist Church for more than 48 years. She had a love for youth camp, cooking, roses and taking care of others. She is known as a Godly woman who loved children. She will be deeply missed.
Emily was an avid member at Victory Bible Baptist for many years.
Emily is preceded in death by spouse, Kenneth Franklin Castleberry, Sr. Parents, Rufus and Elizabeth Burnham, great granddaughter, Evelyn Walton, nephew, Larry Wayne Burnham, as well as several other precious children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren born silently to Jesus.
Emily is survived by children, Diane Van Meris (Jean), Brenda Chavis (Eddie), Kenneth Castleberry (Angela), Eddie Castleberry (Nona), Beth Livingston (Billy), Belinda McGrath, Keith Castleberry (Sandy), Junior Kozlowski (Karin), grandchildren; Cody Castleberry, Patrice Beradelli (Jeremy), Debbie Lee (Jerry), Kaila Ward (Addison), Steven Chavis, Trey Thompson, Randall Castleberry (Tessa), Amber Wise, Tayler Dimmick, Nikole Perna (Vincent), great grandchildren; Brody and Colton Castleberry, Mckenzie and Brantley Beradelli, Zachary, Grayson, Noah and Kiaden Lee, Bradley and Summit Castleberry, Xander and Phoenix Dimmick as well as Jaxson Perna and brother’s Doyle (Earlene) Burnham, Donnie (Jeanne) Burnham, Charles (Vicki) Burnham, David Burnham. Plus numerous nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held at Pensacola Memorial Gardens Funeral Home on Friday, October 3 from noon until the service begins at 1 p.m. Brother Allen Cotton will be officiating and the grandsons will be pallbearers. A special thank you to her nurses Jillian, Andrea and Virginia at VITAS Hospice.
JD ‘Dink: Spence
September 27, 2025
Mr. JD “Dink” Spence, who lived a remarkable 97 years, born on March 29,1928, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 27, 2025. Surrounded by his loving family, he left this world in a calm and loving atmosphere. Dink was known for his warm heart and gentle nature, and his family cherished the many memories they created together over the years. His life touched many, and he will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.
He was a devoted partner at Spence Brothers Logging and spent his early years working in a machine shop in Atmore. He cherished the time he spent outdoors, whether it was building beautiful cedar chests or tending to his big garden. Raising animals brought him joy, as he loved caring for chickens, cows, and goats. Above all, he had a deep love for his Lord and Savior, Christ, and held his family close to his heart. A faithful servant, he found great happiness in attending Fretwell Tabernacle, where he shared his faith and love with others.
Preceded in death by his first wife and mother of his children Lois Heathcock Spence; parents John A and Alice Albritton Spence; son Billy Ray Spence; brothers, Alton Spence and John W. Spence; sisters, Marie “Lady” Locke, Doris Payne and Annie Mae Cook.
He is survived by his loving wife Norma Jean Spence of Walnut Hill, Florida; son, John C. “Johnny” and wife Diane Spence of Walnut Hill, Florida; daughter, Susan “Sue” and Husband John Welch of Bay Minette; six grandchildren and eight great- grandchildren, and many great-great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.
Funeral Services will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025 at 2 PM at Petty Funeral Homes, LLC with Sister Helen Stewart officiating.
Visitation will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025 from 1:00PM until 2:00 PM at Petty Funeral Homes, LLC.
Burial will follow at Pineville Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Howard Spence, Hunter Spence, Fisher Spence, Don Spence, Allen Stacey, and Joey Brown
Upcoming
Paul Karl Maucher
September 27, 2025
Paul Karl Maucher, a beloved father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025, in Cantonment, Florida. He was born on November 5, 1962, in Pensacola, Florida, to Helmut and Luise Maucher, who preceded him in death.
Paul lived a life characterized by a profound love for his family, a passion for motorcycles, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of fishing. He was a low-key individual whose warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Whether he was sharing fishing stories or taking a leisurely ride on his motorcycle, Paul’s spirit was infectious, and he was always surrounded by laughter and love.
He dedicated much of his career to his work as an automotive painter, a role that allowed him to express his creativity and attention to detail. His craftsmanship was a reflection of his character—meticulous and patient.
Paul is survived by his three cherished children: his son Russell Maucher of Cantonment, son Nathan Maucher of Chandler, Oklahoma, and daughter Stacey (Maucher) Johnson of Georgia. He also leaves behind his brothers, Michael Maucher and Martin Maucher, both of Cantonment, as well as other grandchildren who will carry forward his legacy of love and family values.
In honor of Paul’s life, an outdoor memorial will be held at the Molino boat ramp on October 4, 2025, at 1:00 PM for close friends and family.
Paul Karl Maucher
September 26, 2025
Paul Karl Maucher, a beloved father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025, in Cantonment, Florida. He was born on November 5, 1962, in Pensacola, Florida, to Helmut and Luise Maucher, who preceded him in death.
Paul lived a life characterized by a profound love for his family, a passion for motorcycles, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of fishing. He was a low-key individual whose warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Whether he was sharing fishing stories or taking a leisurely ride on his motorcycle, Paul’s spirit was infectious, and he was always surrounded by laughter and love.
He dedicated much of his career to his work as an automotive painter, a role that allowed him to express his creativity and attention to detail. His craftsmanship was a reflection of his character—meticulous and patient.
Paul is survived by his three cherished children: his son Russell Maucher of Cantonment, son Nathan Maucher of Chandler, Oklahoma, and daughter Stacey (Maucher) Johnson of Georgia. He also leaves behind his brothers, Michael Maucher and Martin Maucher, both of Cantonment, as well as other grandchildren who will carry forward his legacy of love and family values.
In honor of Paul’s life, an outdoor memorial will be held at the Molino boat ramp on October 4, 2025, at 1:00 PM for close friends and family.
Myrtle Joyce Portier
September 26, 2025
Myrtle Joyce Portier, affectionately known as “Nannie,” passed away on September 24, 2025, at the age of 79. Born on October 31, 1945 in Atmore, Alabama, Myrtle was a beloved resident of Pensacola, Florida.
She was predeceased by her devoted husband, Harold Asbury Portier, and her parents, Joseph Monie and Dora Monie. Myrtle is survived by her daughters, Teena Nicole Portier and Joyce Michelle Phetteplace (Eddy); her grandsons, Dylan Portier and Jonathan Portier, and several other extended family members.
Myrtle was a faithful and strong woman who, despite her disability, remained resilient and did not let it bring her down. She was a beloved member of her community and, before her illness, was a faithful member of East Brent Baptist Church. Myrtle had a deep love for Christian music, particularly the Gaithers, and enjoyed working in her yard and gardening whenever she was able. She also found joy in watching birds from her window.
Visitation will be held at Eastern Gate Memorial Funeral Home, located at 1985 West Nine Mile Road, Pensacola, FL, on October 7, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. The funeral service will follow at the same location from 1:00 pm.
Myrtle Joyce Portier will be remembered for her unwavering faith, strength, and the love she shared with all who knew her.
Yvonne Marie Bailey
September 21, 2025
It’s with great sadness we announce the passing of Yvonne Marie Bailey. She passed away on September 02, 2025, after a short battle with cancer.
She was born on December 03, 1963, in Pensacola, Florida to Edward and Marilyon Knight who she was preceded in death by. Marie loved her family more than anything. Her children, grandchildren, siblings, cousins and friends all held a special place in her heart.
She was always thinking about others and would give her last dollar to a stranger. She had a passion for arts and crafts. She is survived by her partner, Tommy Brown; sons, Gerald Hank Adams, Edward (Meagan) Luther Adams, and Joshua Levitt Bailey; siblings, Sherri Butler, Candy Knight and David Knight; grandchildren, Willow Adams, Ivy Adams and Porter Adams; and her special friend, Susan Camperlino.
A service will be held at American Legion Post 340, 8890 Ashland Avenue in Pensacola on September 27, 2025, from noon until 3 p.m. All family and friends are welcome.