Wilburn Cleo Drew
September 14, 2025
Mr. Wilburn Cleo Drew, age 93, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025, in Pensacola, Florida. A devoted family man, veteran, and pillar of his community, he leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering faith.
Born on February 28, 1932, in Lottie, Alabama, Wilburn was the son of James Alex and Ettie Solomon Drew. He grew up surrounded by a large and close-knit family that instilled in him the values of hard work, kindness, and integrity—principles he carried with him throughout his life.
Wilburn proudly served his country during the Korean War as a member of the U.S. Army’s 711th AAA Gun Battalion. His commitment to service continued with the Alabama National Guard from 1950 to 1955. These formative years shaped his deep sense of duty and patriotism.
Following his military service, Wilburn embarked on a long and successful career as a chemical operator at Monsanto, where he worked diligently for over 30 years before retiring. His dedication to his work was matched only by his devotion to his family and community.
A man of deep faith, Wilburn was one of the original members of The Point Church. His relationship with God was central to his life; he lived each day guided by Christian principles and shared that light with everyone around him.
Wilburn was also deeply involved in Masonic life. As a dedicated Mason and dual member of Carney Masonic Lodge in Atmore and Ensley Masonic Lodge in Pensacola, he exemplified the values of brotherhood and charity. He was also an active member of the Shriners organization and took great pride in transporting children to the Shriners Hospital in Tampa—a mission close to his heart.
An avid gardener with a green thumb and a love for all things outdoors, Wilburn found joy in nurturing plants and spending time under open skies. Green was not only the color that flourished under his care but also his favorite hue—a reflection of his vibrant spirit.
He is lovingly remembered by his son Barry Kirk Drew (Kymberley), daughter Tonia Anderson (Rex), grandson Barry Kirk Drew Jr. (Jessica), Jeremy Sean Drew
great-grandchildren Easton and Havanah Drew, and sister Voncile Branch.
Wilburn now reunites with those who went before him: his beloved wife Mildred Hadley Drew; son Keith Drew; parents James Alex and Ettie Solomon Drew; brother Onas Drew; and sisters Estelle Dean, Jessie Criswell, Essie Josey, and Dorothy Barber.
Those who knew Wilburn will remember him as a loving husband and father—a gentle soul whose positive outlook uplifted everyone around him. He raised his children with strength tempered by compassion and always had words of encouragement ready for anyone facing hardship: “Tomorrow will be a brighter day,” he would say—and it always was.
His wisdom lives on through another cherished saying: “You can’t do wrong and get by.” These simple yet profound words reflect the moral compass by which he lived.
No one can ever fill the void he has left behind. We are immensely grateful for every moment we shared with him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him—and may tomorrow indeed be a brighter day because he walked among us. A Service will be held on September 15, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 03:00 PM at Lottie New Home Cemetery 22555 Lottie New Home Road. Graveside service
Ellajean K. Bledsoe
September 14, 2025
Ellajean K. Bledsoe, 69, died August 28, 2025, at The Heritage at Sagewood in Grand Island NE.
Ellajean was born July 17, 1956 in Pensacola, FL, the daughter of Billie E. Bledsoe and Viva Jean Cunningham.
Ellajean graduated from Escambia High School, Pensacola, FL, in May 1974 and later moved to West Palm Beach FL. She worked in the banking industry for several years, while attending various College courses and seminars to obtain her Emergency Medical Technology (EMT) certification in August 1984. She worked with Emergency Medical Services in Jupiter FL, before moving to Atchison KS to be closer to her beloved grandmother. Ellajean worked as an EMT with the Atchison Kansas Fire Department until she completed her Fire Service Training. Ellajean was the first female fire fighter hired in Atchison, October 1986.
It was there that she discovered her passion for healing as she continued her education and later became a Physician Assistant.
She completed her Bachelor in Health Science at Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, May 1993. Ellajean worked at Riverbend Rural Health and Atchison Hospital, Atchison, KS. And then moved on to Nebraska.
Ellajean went on to complete her Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies, Emphasis on Emergency Medicine at the University of Nebraska, Omaha, NE. Dec 2001. She started working at Bryan Heart Institute Lincoln, NE and Crete Area Medical Center Oct 2008. She finally retired in Molino, FL, Dec 2018.
Ellajean was an adventurer. Often leaving for weeks to chase wild mustangs in the Rockies or hike the Grand Canyon on two replaced knees. She seldom spent an entire day relaxing on the beach. She loved traveling the world. I don’t think she missed a continent.
She had a great love for all things Doberman. Gypsy, XON, Finn and Nico. She once told a house sitter, “I don’t care if the house burns down, just get the boys out”.
Ellajean was a past member of the First Christian Church, Martha Washington Order of the Eastern Star Chapter No. 215.
She is preceded in death by her parents Billie E. Bledsoe and Viva Jean Bledsoe.
Survivors include: her sister, Patricia Storey (Greg) Molino, FL; her brother Billie E. Bledsoe, CA; several nieces, nephews, grandchildren and her beloved dobie Nico.
Wilburn Cleo Drew
September 14, 2025
Mr. Wilburn Cleo Drew, age 93, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025, in Pensacola, Florida. A devoted family man, veteran, and pillar of his community, he leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering faith.
Born on February 28, 1932, in Lottie, Alabama, Wilburn was the son of James Alex and Ettie Solomon Drew. He grew up surrounded by a large and close-knit family that instilled in him the values of hard work, kindness, and integrity—principles he carried with him throughout his life.
Wilburn proudly served his country during the Korean War as a member of the U.S. Army’s 711th AAA Gun Battalion. His commitment to service continued with the Alabama National Guard from 1950 to 1955. These formative years shaped his deep sense of duty and patriotism.
Following his military service, Wilburn embarked on a long and successful career as a chemical operator at Monsanto, where he worked diligently for over 30 years before retiring. His dedication to his work was matched only by his devotion to his family and community.
A man of deep faith, Wilburn was one of the original members of The Point Church. His relationship with God was central to his life; he lived each day guided by Christian principles and shared that light with everyone around him.
Wilburn was also deeply involved in Masonic life. As a dedicated Mason and dual member of Carney Masonic Lodge in Atmore and Ensley Masonic Lodge in Pensacola, he exemplified the values of brotherhood and charity. He was also an active member of the Shriners organization and took great pride in transporting children to the Shriners Hospital in Tampa—a mission close to his heart.
An avid gardener with a green thumb and a love for all things outdoors, Wilburn found joy in nurturing plants and spending time under open skies. Green was not only the color that flourished under his care but also his favorite hue—a reflection of his vibrant spirit.
He is lovingly remembered by his son Barry Kirk Drew (Kymberley), daughter Tonia Anderson (Rex), grandson Barry Kirk Drew Jr. (Jessica), Jeremy Sean Drew
great-grandchildren Easton and Havanah Drew, and sister Voncile Branch.
Wilburn now reunites with those who went before him: his beloved wife Mildred Hadley Drew; son Keith Drew; parents James Alex and Ettie Solomon Drew; brother Onas Drew; and sisters Estelle Dean, Jessie Criswell, Essie Josey, and Dorothy Barber.
Those who knew Wilburn will remember him as a loving husband and father—a gentle soul whose positive outlook uplifted everyone around him. He raised his children with strength tempered by compassion and always had words of encouragement ready for anyone facing hardship: “Tomorrow will be a brighter day,” he would say—and it always was.
His wisdom lives on through another cherished saying: “You can’t do wrong and get by.” These simple yet profound words reflect the moral compass by which he lived.
No one can ever fill the void he has left behind. We are immensely grateful for every moment we shared with him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him—and may tomorrow indeed be a brighter day because he walked among us. A Service will be held on September 15, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 03:00 PM at Lottie New Home Cemetery 22555 Lottie New Home Road. Graveside service
Matthew Jacob Dockham
September 14, 2025
Matthew Jacob Dockham, known to his family and friends as Jake, passed away on September 8, 2025, in his hometown of Pensacola, Florida, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on November 19, 1993, Jake was a beloved husband, father, and friend. He built a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Jake was predeceased by his father, Ronald Dockham; and mother-in-law, Judy Maglione.
Jake leaves behind his wife and partner of nearly ten years, Liz; and their two precious sons, Jalen (2) and baby Jake (7 weeks), who were the light of his life. Although his time with them was far too short, he poured every ounce of his heart into being the best husband and father.
He is also survived by his mother, Stephanie Dockham; brother, Travis Dockham; father-in-law, Phil Maglione; mother-in-law, Lindsey Duval; as well as many brothers and sisters-in-law whom he welcomed into his life through marriage and his childhood best friend, Ryan Lackey.
Nine months ago, Jake received a diagnosis of a very aggressive cancer. In the months that followed, he displayed remarkable strength, resilience, and optimism. Even in the hardest moments, his spirit inspired those around him. His love for his family carried him through unimaginable challenges, and his bravery will never be forgotten. Jake’s passing leaves his family’s hearts broken beyond words.
He will be forever missed, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of Liz, Jalen, baby Jake, and all who knew and loved him.
His family asks that those who knew Jake honor his memory by keeping his spirit alive through sharing stories, holding loved ones close, showing kindness every day and living each day with the same strength and love he showed throughout his life. Tell your loved ones how much you love them as often as you can.
In lieu of flowers we are asking for your support to help his wife and their sons during this difficult time. Any contribution, no matter the size, will help provide stability and comfort as they navigate the days ahead. Your generosity will honor Jake’s memory and help his family feel the love and support he brought into so many lives.
Donations can be made at TogetherForJake.com
Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 South Highway 29, Cantonment, is entrusted with arrangements.
Barbara Lynette Cannon
September 10, 2025
Mrs. Barbara Lynette Cannon, age 80, passed away on Monday, September 8, 2025.
She was born in Century, Florida, and has lived in Flomaton more than 55 years. She was a graduate of Jay High School.
Mrs. Cannon enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. In her younger years she loved working in her flower gardens, cooking, and visiting with friends in the neighborhood. One of her favorite things to do was shopping. She worked several jobs during her lifetime. She owned and operated a clothing store called Pauline’s located in Flomaton and Brewton. Later in life, she worked at Atmore Hospital and then Jay Hospital working in dietary department. But her favorite job was being a caregiver to her grandchildren.
Barbara is survived by her daughter, Sherry (Joel) Ellison of Flomaton, AL; her son, Kenneth Cannon of Flomaton, AL; grandchildren, Melissa Cannon, April (Cale) Simons, Jake Cannon, Leah (Dustin) Yuhasz, Kameron Cannon, and Courtney (Levi) Watson; and her great-grandchildren, Rhett Madden, Addie Lynn Simons, Parker Yuhasz, Calen Simons, Brooks Yuhasz, and Laynie Louise.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 37 years, Jerry Cannon, her mother, Bernice Bush Wise; brother, Jerry Burgess; sister in law, Louise Burgess.
Those who loved Nanny will remember her strength, her laughter, and the way she made everyone feel at home. Her legacy of love and faith will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
Funeral services will be held Friday, September 12, 2025, at 2:00 PM from the chapel of Flomaton Funeral Home with Bro. Ricky Tedder officiating and family friend Mr. Earl Jones speaking. Interment will follow in Rock Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Friday, September 12, 2025, from 1:00PM until 2:00PM at the Flomaton Funeral Home Chapel.
Pallbearers – Cale Simons, Dustin Yuhasz, Gerald Burgess Jr., Jimmy Burgess, Jeremiah Johnson, William Burgess, John Rowland.
Honorary Pallbearers – Ken Brewton, Ben Thompson, Kris Cane, Shannon Dale White.
Thomas Wilton ‘Toby’ Quimby
September 8, 2025
Thomas Wilton “Toby” Quimby, age 57, of Atmore, AL, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on September 6, 2025, at his home. Toby was born on May 23, 1968, to Robert English and Julianne Johnson Quimby. Toby is preceded in death by his grandparents, Lawrence and Minnie Quimby, and Julius and Sybil Johnson, and his brother, Robert Lawrence “Robby” Quimby.
Toby was a graduate of Escambia County High School class of 1987. Upon graduating from high school, Toby felt the calling to join his family’s business at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home. Toby graduated from the Dallas Institute of Mortuary Science and served as Sergeant of Sigma Chi. Toby passed the Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards of the United States, which he was very proud of. Toby was a Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer in the states of Alabama and Florida. He took immense pride and was known for his professionalism in his calling to serve many grieving families through a difficult time in their lives. Toby will be deeply missed.
Toby was a longtime and faithful member of First Methodist Church of Atmore. He was a die-hard Alabama Fan and loved to go hunting any chance he could. Toby cherished his family and treasured sweet memories, especially trips to Alabama Football games and Pensacola Beach. Toby was an avid skier and loved to barefoot ski in his younger years.
Toby is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 32 years, Maggie Deese Quimby; his parents, Robert English and Julianne Johnson Quimby; his sons, Blake Quimby, Brad Quimby (Samantha Roux), and Bryant Quimby; his grandson, Myles Quimby; and a host of family and friends.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Mike Von Keyserling and Bro. John Brannan officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery.
Active pallbearers will be Blake Quimby, Brad Quimby, Bryant Quimby, Shannon Hayes, Braxton Hayes and Wade Everette.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 10, 2025 from 1:00 p.m. until service time at 2:30 p.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home in Atmore, AL.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First United Methodist Church of Atmore “More than bricks”. Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Rayford Earl Jeter
September 8, 2025
Rayford Earl Jeter, age 87, of Atmore, AL, passed away on September 6, 2025. Rayford was born on July 9, 1938, to Floyd B. and Mable Ledkins Jeter in Bratt, FL. Rayford was the co-founder of Atmore Carpets and Jeter Housing Rentals. Rayford is preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 65 years, Margaret M. Jeter; his brother, Charles Jeter; and his brother-in-law, Wayne Moring.
Rayford is survived by his sons, Tom Jeter of Atmore, AL, and Randy (Brenda) Jeter of LaGrange, GA; his daughters, Dianne (Robin) Baggett of Huxford, AL, and Linda (Gary) West of Atmore, AL; his brother, Vernon (Susan) Jeter of Bratt, FL; his sister-in-law, Marcella Moring; his grandchildren: Heather, Noah, Emma and Ava Baggett, Maranda, Raylin, Rye, and Rein Lambeth, Lilly English, Brian, Russell, Aaron, David and Laura Jeter along with a host of family and friends.
Graveside services will be held Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery in Atmore, AL, with Bro. Gary West officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family asked for donations to be made to the Atmore Animal Shelter.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Jan Coleman
September 7, 2025
Jan Coleman, 73, of Century, FL, passed away on August 31, 2025. She was born on October 21, 1951, in Gulfport, MS, to Paul and Mary Frasier, of Waynesboro, MS.
Jan was the first daughter of Paul and Mary Frasier. She was “Little Ms. Waynesboro”, played piano and saxophone, and was a baton twirling majorette. Jan graduated college with a degree in interior design. As life changed courses, so did she. Jan went back to school to get her degree in chemistry. This is where she found another passion. She was a lifeguard and an entrepreneur in selling the clothing that she made. She had a wide variety of things and areas that she was passionate about. Jan loved sewing and making things of all sorts. She made clothing from sweatshirts, dance costumes, outfits for the family, even the sheets and pillowcases that they laid their heads on. She taught many children and grandchildren how to sew.
She had a love for the water, from teaching the children how to swim in the pool to hanging out on the beach with her sons (all 3). She had a love for flowers, so there always had to be flowers in the yard (sunflowers, especially). Jan loved to fish, watch “Law and Order” and sit on the porch or on her swing with a hot cup of coffee. Many grandchildren sat on the porch enjoying a cup of Nana’s hot chocolate with her. She had a love of baking and candy making. Jan loved to put on large family gatherings. They were always over the top to most but not for her- they were just right. She would cook for days on end to “get ready” as she would say. There would be so much more food than was needed and she would say “you never know who all is coming, I want to have enough”.
Christmas was her favorite time of year. Everyone knew all year to be ready for Christmas Eve at Nana’s (it will carry on). She loved watching some good football, whether it be from the stands cheering on the grandchildren or in the living room with family. Jan loved family and watched it grow through the years with many people becoming family. She has impacted a lot of lives in her lifetime, and she will be greatly missed by all that knew her.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, Gary Coleman; parents, Paul and Mary Frasier; and sister, Andreae O’Dom Busby.
Jan is survived by her brother, Paul (Vicki) Frasier of Shubuta, MS; sisters, Mona Shea (Larry) Givens of Chatom, AL, and Denise (Paul) Brown of Fruitdale, AL; sons, David Alan Coleman of Century, FL, Jeremy Coleman of Cantonment, FL, and Nick (Melissa) Fowler of Lyman, SC; daughters, Sylvia Hoy of Century, FL, and Nancy Hudson of Cantonment, FL; 15 grandchildren: Chandler, Micheal, Dillon, Nick, DJ, Jeremiah, Jacob, Joseph, Jasmine, Alex, Faith, Garrett, Damion, Mariah, and Dalton; and 13 great-grandchildren: Alexis, Liam, Destiny, Taccoa, Montana, Kingsley, Tori, JJ, Skyler, Alora, Kayden, Hezekiah and Rosalynn (on the way).
The family would like to give a special acknowledgment to friends and neighbors, Gary and Poly Johnson; and Nikki Fort, Rebecca Hudson, Nora Hudson, Racheal Sexton and Ronald Hoy, who became family many years ago and each had a special place in her heart.
Pallbearers will be Nick Fowler, Alex McMinn, Dalton Hudson, Jacob Coleman, Michael Boyd and David Hoy.
A Funeral Service for Jan were held on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Trahan Family Funeral Home. Burial followed the service at Spruell Memorial Cemetery.
Chad Alan Williams
September 6, 2025
Chad Alan Williams, age 48, departed this life on September 4, 2025.
Chad was a man of quiet strength, quick wit, and deep loyalty. He had a way of making people feel at ease—whether through a well-timed joke, a helping hand, or simply being present when it mattered most. His life was marked by kindness, resilience, and a love for those closest to him.
A proud graduate of Pine Forest High School, Chad carried the values of hard work and camaraderie with him throughout his life.
He went on to co-found Williams-Brown Construction, a commercial building company he started with his business associate, Jeremy Brown. Together, they built numerous structures throughout the Pensacola area, leaving a tangible legacy of dedication, skill, and pride in their work. Chad’s mark on the community stands in steel and stone— buildings that will continue to serve and inspire for years to come.
He found joy in the outdoors, especially through hunting and fishing, and traveled extensively to pursue that passion—hunting all around the world. Yet what mattered most to him wasn’t the destination, but the company. He cherished the time spent sharing those experiences with his children, niece, and nephews. Whether it was early mornings in the woods or quiet afternoons by the water, Chad made those moments feel like adventures— full of laughter, patience, and connection.
By his side through many of those adventures was his loyal canine companion, Moose. Chad raised Moose from a puppy and trained him at some of the finest duck hunting camps in the country. The two were inseparable in the field—Moose was not just a hunting dog, but a trusted friend and a reflection of Chad’s patience, skill, and love for the outdoors.
Chad is survived by his three daughters: Makenley Williams, Maggie Williams, and Molly Williams—each of whom was the light of his life. His world revolved around them, and the love he held for his girls was deep, enduring, and unmistakable.
He is also survived by his mother, Deborah Williams; his sisters, Stephanie (Williams) Hamrac and her husband Mike, and Becky (Williams) Johnson and her husband Brandon; his cousins, Jameson Reynolds and his wife Andrea, Chris Reynolds and his wife Dawn, and Lucas Knight and his wife Dee; as well as his beloved niece, nephews, great-niece, great-nephew, extended family, and many friends.
Chad was preceded in death by his father, Wallace R. Williams Jr., and his grandfather, Wallace R. Williams Sr. Their memory lives on in the stories and love that shaped Chad’s life.
Special thanks to the West Family in Mississippi for their kindness and support during this time. Your love and care have meant more than words can express.
Visitation will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, September 12, followed by the funeral service at 12:00 PM, both at Pensacola Memorial Gardens. A graveside service will follow immediately after.
Pallbearers will be Chad Henderson, Chad Brown, Beau Pollard, Donald Perry, Steve Jordan, and Gray Hassell—each a friend and brother-in-arms who stood beside Chad in life and now honor him in rest.
And if you ever find yourself needing to change the subject, just remember Chad’s favorite line:
“Did y’all see that rabbit?”
Rickey Franklin Anthony
September 4, 2025
Rickey Franklin Anthony, age 40, passed away suddenly in a tragic accident on September 20, 2025, in Brewton, Alabama. He was a beloved son, grandson, brother, father, and friend whose generous heart and deep love for family will never be forgotten.
Rickey was born on January 17, 1985, in Milton, Florida. A lifelong resident of Brewton, he was of the Full Gospel faith. He attended W.S. Neal School and later worked as a heavy equipment operator in the logging industry. Rickey was known for his unwavering devotion to his family, especially his beloved grandmother, Cindy Gayle Anthony, affectionately known as Mama. His kindness, loyalty, and big heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
He is survived by his grandmother, Cindy Gayle Anthony of Brewton, Alabama; his mother, Karen Mudd (Chris) of Corrigan, Texas; his stepmother, Darlene Anthony of Brewton, Alabama; his children, sons Eli Anthony of Century, Florida, and Eric Anthony of Century, Florida, and daughters Mary Gayle Anthony of Mobile, Alabama, Chloe Anthony of Mobile, Alabama, and Madison Anthony of Perdido, Alabama; his brothers, Blake Anthony (Kristen) of Billings, Montana, Lee Anthony of Brewton, Alabama, Chad Mudd (Becca) of Katy, Texas, and Corey Mudd (Sabrina) of Onalaska, Texas; his grandmother, Linda Watson of Shepherd, Texas; his uncles, Steve Anthony of Camden, Alabama, and John Kennedy (Kathie) of Shepherd, Texas; and his aunts, Ashley Kutac (Craig) of Rosenberg, Texas, and Saundra Anthony of Brewton, Alabama, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who loved him deeply.
Rickey was preceded in death by his father, Nathaniel M. Anthony; his grandfathers Marion F. Bud Anthony and Robert Kennedy; his uncle Mickey F. Anthony; his aunt Angela Anthony; and his nephew Conner Mudd of Katy, Texas.
A visitation will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025, from 1-2 p.m. at Williams Memorial Chapel Funeral Home in Brewton. Funeral services will follow at 2 p.m., with Pastor Billy Ray Singleton officiating. Interment will take place at Weaver Cemetery, with Williams Memorial Chapel Funeral Home directing.
Rickey’s spirit, laughter, and love will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Though he is gone too soon, his memory will remain a source of strength and comfort to his family and friends.