Warren Pierce Gilmore
August 28, 2024
Warren Pierce Gilmore was born in Milton, Florida on December 6, 1947 to his loving and devoted parents, the late Deacon James Franklin Gilmore, Sr. and Pollie Marie Walker Gilmore. Warren was a highly respected man of great character, strength, courage, dignity, and wisdom. On Tuesday, August 20, 2024, Warren moved from labor to reward when our Heavenly Father called him home to be with Him.
Warren joined Mt. Pilgrim African Baptist Church at an early age and subsequently accepted Jesus Chris as his personal Lord and Savior. During his teen years, his older sister, and “second Mom”, Marie Gilmore Dickerson, taught him to play the piano. He and Marie had a very special bond which extended throughout their adult lives and lasted until her death.
He was educated in the Santa Rosa County Public School System. He attended and graduated from T.R. Jackson School and was a proud member of the Class of 1965. It was at T.R. Jackson where he learned to play the percussions and became the percussion section leader during his senior year of high school. He was also on the track team and ran in long distance track events.
Warren enlisted in the United States Air Force June 1965 and was honorably discharged December 1968 from active duty. During his tenure, he was a Heating System Specialist. He continued to serve his country in the Air Force Reserve until June 1971 in Niagara Falls, New York. During his stay there, he married and from that union two children were born and three children were adopted – Warren Jr., Keisha, Anthony, Kim and Renee. He later moved back to Milton, Florida and found the job that he truly enjoyed at Whiting Field Naval Base where he worked as an Aircraft Mechanic until his retirement in 2003.
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After his return to Milton, he re-joined his home church, Mt. Pilgrim African Baptist Church. There he became a deacon and later accepted God’s Calling and truly became “A Man after God’s Own Heart”. Warren was licensed in the ministry in June 1988 and later ordained in September 1988. While at Mt. Pilgrim, Rev. Gilmore baptized an abundance of youth in the Milton community and most of them referred to him as “Pops”, “Uncle Warren” or “Unk”. Rev. Gilmore faithfully served Mt. Pilgrim until God called him to pastor James Street Baptist Church (JSBC), where he was installed in July 1993. Rev. Warren Gilmore (lovingly referred to as “Rev.”), cared deeply for all of his JSBC members. He made it his priority to check on them regularly to just make sure that they were “good”. He was an amazing pastor who loved teaching and preaching God’s Word to JSBC and surrounding churches. Rev. Gilmore also served the Milton Community as Vice President then President of the Fellowship Churches of Santa Rosa County. After serving God and God’s JSBC flock as Pastor, Rev. retired in October 2014. He subsequently received the honor and title of Pastor Emeritus.
Warren met Annie “Vinia” Dortch during a visit at Greater Union Baptist Church in Century, Florida. A couple years later, on March 30, 1996, they were married and to this union three children were born – Pierce, Jerard and Jermaine (the twins). He absolutely loved and adored his family. He and Annie were the best of friends and did everything together and still “courted” each other going on dates every Friday until he became too ill to do so.
Warren was the “coolest” and “most down to earth” Man of God one could ever meet. He loved to laugh as well as make others laugh. His jovial personality and hearty laugh were contagious. He was a jokester and if he knew anything funny about you, you would be reminded of it at almost every encounter with him, followed by the heartiest laugh ever. He loved different genres of music, but Gospel was his favorite. He loved to see the band “12Eleven” perform. His son, Pierce, is the drummer and he considered Pierce’s band mates (Daniel, Denver and Eric) his sons and they affectionately called him “Dad”.
In addition to his family, Rev. had a group of friends, called “The David’s Catfish Crew”. They would eat lunch weekly at David’s Catfish House in Milton. They would have the best time joking around with each other and were well known by the staff.
Warren was preceded in death by his parents, Deacon James Sr. and Pollie Gilmore; and all of his siblings: Carolyn, Willie, Mary, Erskin, Martha, Marie, Nellie and James, and best friends: Esic Rhodes, Murray Hamilton, Alfred Brewton and Donald Brown.
Warren left an exceptionally unique signature on life. He leaves to share pleasant memories and carry out his legacy – his wife, Annie (Milton, FL); five children: Warren Jr. (Tracey) and Keisha (Niagara Falls, NY), Pierce (Gulf Shores, AL), twins – Jerard and Jermaine (Milton, FL); three adopted children: Anthony and Kim (Niagara Falls, NY) and Renee (Illinois); fifteen grandchildren; sixteen great-grands and one great-great grand; one goddaughter: Juandalynn-aka Tamiko-Leverette (Atlanta, GA); five sisters-in-law; Dorothy M. Newton and Shelia Dortch (Century, FL), Clarissa (Buddy) Burt (Flomaton, AL), Karen (Minister Steve) Evans (Cincinnati, OH), and Linda Dortch (Atmore, AL); six aunts: Margaret Robinson (Marianna, FL), Lois White (Century, FL), Katherine Hastings (Marlboro, NY), Barbara White (Poughkeepsie, NY), Melinda Harris and Debra Edwards (Pensacola, FL); several nieces and nephews of which special bonds were formed with: Margo (Damian) Phillips (Concord, NC), Marlon Dickerson-aka-Bubba, (Little Rock, AR), Marque-aka-Keke (Benjamin) Lee (Chicago, IL), Keith (Francisca) Gilmore (Pensacola, FL), Krystal Gilmore (Milton,FL), Karen Gilmore (Douglasville, GA), Kim (Greg) Gibson (Chesapeake, VA), Krystal Gilmore and Lisa Johnson (Milton, FL), Pastor Vincent Dortch (Mableton, GA), Shana Barton (Milton, FL), Nerissa McKinney (Pensacola, FL), Rhonda Newton-King (Century, FL), Constance Madison (Flomaton, AL) and Brittney Dortch (Flomaton, AL – who greeted him by saying “Hey My Perfect Uncle” and he would respond “Hey My Perfect Niece”); best friends: Rev. Clifford Harris (Milton, FL) and Rev. Lonnie Bennett (Milton, FL); and a plethora of cousins, great nieces, nephews and friends whom he was very close with and ALL shared a very special place in his heart. Rev. Warren Pierce Gilmore was one in a million!
Ollie Strawbridge
August 26, 2024
Ollie Strawbridge, 87, of Atmore, AL, passed away on August 23, 2024, in Bay Minette, AL. Born on June 30, 1937, in Sulligent, AL, he was the son of the late Thomas and Alice Estelle Millican Strawbridge.
Ollie graduated from Escambia County High School in 1959, where he was a cheerleader and president of Future Farmers of America. After serving in the United States Army and receiving a good conduct medal, he graduated from The University of Alabama in 1967.
Ollie married Rachel McGougan in 1969, and they were married for 55 years. He worked at First National Bank for 46 years, serving as bank president for 16 years. A lifelong Methodist, Ollie was a member of Bethel Methodist Church in Atmore, then First United Methodist Church of Atmore, and finally Point Washington United Methodist after moving to Florida.
A dedicated community member, Ollie served as president of Atmore Jaycees, the Rotary Club, and the Chamber of Commerce. He and Rachel returned to Atmore in 2020.
Ollie was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Thomas Priddy Strawbridge, James Edward Strawbridge, Sr., Ronald Strawbridge, Lewis Strawbridge, Mary Wadeema Guyton, and Sylvia JoAnn Johnson.
He is survived by his wife, Rachael McGougan Strawbridge; his children, David Strawbridge, Anna-Lisa Daniel, and Laurie Strawbridge; his grandchildren, Ansley Daniel and Mary Alice Daniel; his sister, Sue Roley; and numerous nieces, nephews, family, and friends.
Memorial services will be held on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at 11 a.m. at First United Methodist Church of Atmore, with Pastor Michael von Keyserling officiating. A private family graveside service will be held in Serenity Gardens Cemetery in Atmore.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
David Dean Morgan
August 22, 2024
David Dean Morgan, 60, of Century, Fl, passed away on Saturday, August 17, 2024… David was a meter reader for the Century Water Department.
Our hearts are saddened by the loss of such a sweet soul. Dave brought so much joy to our hearts. He loved everyday of his life, spending time with family members and friends. He loved his dog Gunny, watching ballgames on tv, and enjoying times together with his longtime friend, Cindy. He and his dad loved the joy of riding motorcycles and spending time together. He gave his mother great joy by talking to her about the good old days. Dave loved growing up with his brother, Chris, and sister Karen. All three of them were close and enjoyed spending time together. There is so much more to express about Dave, but it would take pages to talk about spending time with all his family including his Granny Morgan whom he dearly loved. His Uncles, Aunts, cousins and nieces. There will be an empty seat with his absence, but we will all remember the love and joy that he gave to all of us.
He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Morgan. Survivors include his mother, Helen Morgan; Brother, Chris Morgan; sister, Karen (Darren) Mathis; four nieces and a host of friends.
His family would like to express thanks everyone for being there for David, and the happiness you brought into his life. Thank you from our hearts for your love and prayers and may you all be blessed as well. Thanks to the Century Water Department for giving him the opportunity to work with them.
Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, August 22, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Jay Funeral Chapel with Pastor Bobby Carnley officiating. A visitation will be held from 6:00 PM until service time.
Ruth Ann Miller
August 22, 2024
Ruth Ann Miller, 81, of Molino, Florida died Peacefully in her home on August 21, 2024. She was born September 15 th 1942 in Meadville, Pennsylvania to Samuel John and Cynthia Burkhardt. After she graduated high school she moved to Washington, DC to take a job as a Clerk where she met a small-town southern man from Pineview, Alabama who was serving in the Army. They were married October 13 th of 1961. The two moved to Ensley, Florida and started their family. Ruth and Roger had three sons, John, Jimmy, and Steve. Not long after that, they moved to Molino, Florida and that is where they raised their boys. After moving from the north, Ruth quickly perfected her southern cooking skills and became known for them. She took pride in always taking care of her family and would even take a job when it was necessary to make ends meet, but her greatest titles were Mama and Granny. She took great pride in watching her family grow, especially her great-grandchildren.
In retirement Ruth and Roger were able to spend time together camping, traveling and being grandparents. They loved traveling with friends and playing/listening to music together and camping on the shores of Lake Martin, Alabama. She would often tell stories of how those were some of her favorite memories of their 42 years together.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Samuel John and Cynthia Burkhardt; husband Houston “Roger” Miller. She is survived by her 3 sons John Miller, Jimmy (Becky) Miller, and Steve (Tracey) Miller. Grandchildren April (Adam) Glass, Eli (Sarah) Miller, Kimberly (Robert) Waren, Zach Miller, and Justin Miller. Niece Carol Parks, Nephew Jim Burkhardt; 8 Great Grandchildren. Funeral Services will be Saturday, August 24, 2024 at 10 a.m. at Crabtree Church Cemetery, Molino, Florida. Visitation will be prior to service at 9 to 10 a.m.
Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 South Highway 29, Cantonment, is entrusted with arrangements.
Duane Bond II
August 22, 2024
Mr. Duane Bond II, age 57, passed away, Monday, August 19, 2024, in Century, FL. He was born April 10, 1967, in Jamestown, NY; and resided in Tennessee for some time before moving to Century, FL; the past 10 years.
His favorite pastime was golfing and traveling with his wife. He enjoyed watching Florida Gators Football and was a Baltimore Ravens Fan.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Rebecca Wisor Tarvin.
He is survived by his father, Duane Charles Bond, of Panama City, FL; wife, Cathy Bond, of Century, FL; one son, Christopher Nall, of Century, FL; one brother, Danny Taevin, of Atlanta, GA; one sister, Pam Bowman, of Chattanooga, TN; one grandchild, Trevor Nall, other relatives and friends.
Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Home, LLC. Atmore, AL. is in charge of all arrangements.
Alvin Glenn Myrick
August 16, 2024
Alvin Glenn Myrick, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on August 9, 2024, at the age of 62. He graduated from Tate High School, Class of 1980. Alvin was known for his kind heart and the love he shared with everyone he met. After graduation, Alvin worked at Westinghouse and later moved to Armstrong World Industries. He had a long and fulfilling career as an industrial mechanic until his retirement in 2021. His work ethic and dedication were well respected by all who knew him. Anyone who knew Alvin knew his passion for his cow farm, where he could often be found riding his Kawasaki Mule, ensuring the cows were safe, the fences were intact, and everything was running smoothly. His love for the outdoors was evident in the joy he found in camping, fishing, and hunting, some of which led to organizing fish fries for family and friends. However, no matter how busy he was, he always found time to drink coffee with his mom, cherishing those shared moments. Alvin was the ultimate family man, incredibly proud of both his children and grandchildren. You could always find him riding around the farm with his wife or one of the kids. Every school afternoon, he picked up Harper and Madi from the bus stop. He constantly roamed the 40 acres, finding chores for him and his son to complete and adding them to the “never-ending list” they joked about. He was a constant presence at the “Broken M Farm,” which he shared with his children, grandchildren, mother, and cousins. Another of Alvin’s favorites was Alabama football. He shared games with his dad, brother, and uncles, and passed that love on to his children. He always stood ready to cheer with a “ROLL TIDE.” He took immense pride in supporting his grandson, watching him play as an NWE Chief, an Ernest Ward Eagle, and eagerly looked forward to seeing him shine on Friday nights as a Northview Chief. He even went to NWE to support his granddaughter’s cheerleading (though we all knew he was really watching the game). Alvin was proud of his son coaching under the Friday night lights at Northview High School. He was always willing to help in any way with the upkeep and maintenance of the sports programs. He will be missed for his generous spirit. Those who knew Alvin were more than just friends; they became family.
Alvin is survived by his wife of nearly 42 years, Jan Clayton Myrick; his two children, Monica (Ryan) Scully and Robert (Brittany) Myrick; four grandchildren, Tucker and Harper Scully, Madi and Alli Myrick; his mother, Sheila Myrick; his mother-in-law, Rachel Clayton; his sister, Sharon (Ricky) McCrory; his sister-in-law, Terri Myrick; and his brother-in-law, Stan (Kimberly) Clayton. Alvin also leaves behind a multitude of cousins, nieces, and nephews, as well as friends who became family over the years.
Alvin was preceded in death by his father, Horace Myrick, and his brother, Doug Myrick.
Alvin will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Whether you worked with him, coached with him, befriended him, or were lucky enough to be related to him, you knew the impact he made on your life. He will be remembered most for his genuine ability to befriend everyone he met and for the unwavering loyalty he showed his friends. His legacy of love, hard work, and devotion to his family and friends will live on in the hearts of those who loved him
Briella Lee Bailey
August 13, 2024
Infant, of Poarch, Alabama was born on May 20, 2024 at Spring Hill Medical Center, and entered her heavenly home on August 7, 2024. Briella was her Mother’s world, her Daddy’s girl, and her Brother’s “Brinnifer”. She had a contagious smile that would light up the room. She brought so much love and happiness to all knew her and truly was a gift sent from above.
Briella is proceeded in death by grandparents Junior Bailey, Marshall Boatwright and Verlie-McGhee Bailey. Uncle Joseph Bailey; Aunt Faith Bailey; special cousins Denver Shuttlesworth, Jake Bailey and Joey McGhee; special friend Hannah Martin.
Briella is survived by parents Brianna Bailey and James Peoples; brother Zayden Bailey; grandparents Larry (Poppy) and Robin (Ra-Ra) Bailey, Timmy (Paw Paw) and Jessica (Mi-Mi) Bailey, Donna (Nanny) Bailey, Faye (Grandma) Boatwright. The best Aunt Chloe Bailey. Bonus grandparents Larry Paul and Stephanie Kendrick, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
A special thanks to Atmore Community Hospital and staff, Atmore Medstar, Atmore Police Department, Poarch Creek Indians Fire and Police Department, Sandy Hollinger, Taya Stanley, Haley Hornady, Emily Parker, Makayla Bailey, Trista Barlow, Lauren Stacey, Leslie Ball, Makayla Parker, Gabby McGhee, Francheska Southard, ABC&123 Learning Center and many others.
Funeral service will be held Friday, August 16, 2024 at 10:00 AM at McCullough Christian Center with Pastor, Cornelius Phillips officiating.
Burial will follow at New Home Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Thursday, August 15, 2024 from 6:00 PM until service time Friday, August 16, 2024 at 10:00 AM at McCullough Christian Center.
Pallbearers will be Corey Bailey and Joseph Parker.
Honorary pallbearers will be Brayden Bailey, Chad Odom, Denver Shuttlesworth, Jeremy McGhee, Joey Barber, Larry Paul, Patrick Stanley, and Randy Fretwell, Jr.
Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Home, LLC Atmore, Alabama is in charge of all arrangements
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Dwight Lamar Peake
August 12, 2024
Dwight Lamar Peake, age 77, passed away peacefully in his home Aug. 11, 2024, surrounded by his family. Born on Jan. 19, 1947, in Pensacola, Fla., Dwight was a barber by trade and a former deacon in his church, Calvary Baptist Church on Pine Forest Road.
Dwight was a loving father, grandfather and husband and has been married to his wife for 51 years.
Dwight is preceded in death by his parents, John and Alma Peake, and his brother, Gerald Peake. He is survived by his loving wife, Helen Yvonne Peake; son Joshua (Jessica) Peake; daughter Jennifer (Derrick) Mink; grandsons Roman Peake and James Romans; granddaughter Kailyn Mink; brother Bruce (Cindy) Peake, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. Aug. 16, 2024, at Pensacola Memorial Gardens, followed with a funeral service at 2 p.m. No graveside service, as Dwight was a simple man and only wanted one service. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Calvary Baptist Church on Pine Forest Road in Dwight’s name.
Lloyd Henry Brazwell
August 12, 2024
Lloyd Henry Brazwell, 95, of Jay, Florida, passed away on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Milton, Florida.
Lloyd was born on November 29th, 1928 in Pensacola, Florida. He worked as a tug boat captain for Brown Manie for over 30 years.
He loved his dogs like children. He enjoyed telling stories of his youth to his family.
Lloyd is survived by his daughter, Karen Brazwell and son, Ronnie and wife Beth Castner, 11 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and the 3rd great great grandchild due soon.
He is proceeded in death by his wife of 49 years, Clara Brazwell, his children Lloyd A. Brazwell, James Brazwell and Alice Custner.
A visitation will be held on Friday, August 2, 2024 at Pensacola Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home beginning at 10:00am with services immediately to follow at 11:00am.
Lewis Arnold Hilburn
August 12, 2024
Lewis Arnold Hilburn of Cantonment, FL entered into rest on Thursday, August 1st, 2024.
Lewis was born on August 21, 1956. He is preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Geraldine Hilburn.
He is survived by his wife Linda, his 2 sons, Jeffery (Candice) and Jason (Nicole), his brother Terry (Rhonda), his grandchildren Ava, Destiny, Autumn, Aubree, and Asher, his aunt Joyce, his uncles Robert and David, and numerous cousins.
Lewis was loved by many and will be greatly missed, but the family takes comfort in knowing he is at peace in the loving arms of his Savior.
A visitation will be held Monday, August 5th from 5:00-7:00 at Pensacola Memorial Gardens.
The funeral service will be held the following day Tuesday, August 6th at 11:00 also at Pensacola Memorial Gardens.
A special thank you to Hospice, especially Mr. David, for making this difficult time more bearable. Thank you for doing such an amazing job and taking such good care of Lewis.