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.
Brenda Gail Deese
September 21, 2025
Peacefully and surrounded by her family, Brenda Gail Deese passed away on September 18, 2025 at the age of 72. Gail was born in Century, Florida on March 23, 1953, to Clifton and Jeanette Lowry. She graduated from Jay High School in 1971 and shortly thereafter married the love of her life, Lee Deese.
Gail was known for her boundless love and generosity. A truly selfless individual, she gave herself freely to family, friends, and even strangers. Gails kindness and compassion touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to have known her.
She will be lovingly remembered by her son, David (Amber) Deese; grandchildren: Cooper Deese and Carrington Deese; great grand-daughter, Paisley Harigel; brother, Clifton (Chriss) Lowry; sister, Nancy (Gary) Daugett; brother in law, WJ (Linda) Deese; sister in laws, Theresa (Billy) Rainey and Joann Deese; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 46 years, Lee Deese; son, Daniel Deese; grandson, Sawyer Deese; parents, Clifton and Jeanette Lowry; In laws, Willard and Juanita Deese; brother in law, Havis Deese.
Services will be held Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at Cornerstone Christian Church. Visitation will be held from 12pm-2pm, with the service immediately following at 2pm with Bobby Carnley, Zach Carnley and Colby Odom officiating. Burial will follow at Cora Cemetery.
Pallbearers are David Deese, Cooper Deese, Bryce Preston, Josh Daugett, Justin Daugett, Jeremiah Daugett and Randy Lowry
The family wishes to send a special thank you to the staff at UAB Hospital and Emerald Coast Hospice for their care and compassion.
Jay Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
Robert Gary Johnson
September 17, 2025
Robert Gary Johnson, 77, passed away on September 12, 2025.
From the streets of South Alabama to climbing Machu Pichu, navigating inside the Pyramids of Egypt, strolling the streets of Ephesus, munching goodies at Christmas Markets all over Europe, Gary was at home when traveling the world with the love of his life, Pat.
Gary was born on October 24, 1947 at the Turberville Memorial Hospital in Century Florida, the third son of Ernest Hiram Johnson and Lola Mae Simmons Johnson. He is survived by his wife, Patricia (Pat) Staton Johnson, his two brothers, Hiram Johnson and Chester Johnson, and a host of nieces, great nieces, nephews, and great nephews. He was extremely proud of his South Alabama-Northwest Florida upbringing and his Century High School “Blackcats.”
Gary spent his early years working and playing on the farm with his maternal grandparents and uncles who served as stand in fathers after the death of his father. These years established his unusually good work ethic, curiosity about the how to and why of anything, and his logical way of looking at life.
He had a keen interest in engineering and attended the University of Alabama, earning a degree in Mechanical engineering. He was employed by Gulf Power for a short time, until his desire to serve his country and led to his enlistment in the U.S. Army, and served in Vietnam.
He returned to the University of Alabama to earn an MS in Mechanical Engineering. He was hired and worked for Brown Engineering, USBI, in Huntsville and Cape Canaveral. It was necessary in God’s design for him to move to Florida because that is where he met and married his wife, Pat.
Gary cherished his relationships with family and friends from all walks of life. He spent much of life making and cultivating these friendships. He met, believed, and accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord. His relationship with Christ created the direction and actions for the rest of his life. Ministry in missions brought God’s spiritual gift of ‘Joy’ in Gary’s life. This” joy” was encouraged and cultivated by Indian Springs Holiness Camp Meeting, Church of the Highlands, Kairos Prison Ministry and kingdom workers around the world.
For the better part of his adult life, he and Pat worked in and supported ministries across the globe. His impact was seen in establishing an eye glass ministry in Honduras, water filtration devices in Honduras and Kenya, providing and installing radios for the Quechua in Bolivia, providing shoes through Operation Beautiful Feet in several countries and serving in the Kairos Prison Ministry.
He avoided recognition as much as possible, but one document he treasured was a Certificate of Appreciation from NASA for investigating the Space Shuttle Challenger accident and identifying actions to return to flight. In this it meant retrieving parts of the spacecraft from the ocean floor.
A Life Well Traveled, A Life Well Lived because of Jesus Christ
Susan Gay Harmon Meadows
September 16, 2025
Susan Gay Harmon Meadows, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and teacher, passed away peacefully on September 06, 2025. She was 88 years old.
Born on September 22, 1936, Susan lived a life marked by love, faith, and music. A gifted educator, she shared her passion for music with countless children as a kindergarten music teacher at Smoke Rise Baptist Church in Stone Mountain, Georgia, where she taught for more than 30 years. Her gentle spirit, patience, and creativity touched the lives of generations of students and their families.
Susan met the love of her life, Merrill Lamar Meadows, while attending Mercer University in Macon, Georgia. They were married soon after and shared over 50 years together, raising a family and building a life filled with devotion and joy. The couple first made their home in Atlanta before moving to Tucker, Georgia, where they raised their son and became deeply rooted in their community. Later in life, Susan moved to Cantonment, Florida, where she continued to surround herself with family and faith.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lamar, who passed away on December 25, 2015; her mother, Vivian Callahan; as well as several cherished aunts and an uncle.
Susan is survived by her son, Christopher David Meadows; his wife, her loving daughter-in-law, Marilee Waller Meadows; four grandchildren who were the pride and joy of her late years; sister, Linda Callahan of Oregon, who shared a lifetime of memories and love with her.
Those who knew Susan will remember her as a woman of kindness, grace, and unwavering faith. She found joy in music, teaching, and the simple blessing of time with her family. Her legacy lives on through the many students she inspired, the family she nurtured, and the friends who loved her.
In memory of Susan, the family requests that donations be made to the charity of your choice.
Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 South Highway 29, Cantonment, is entrusted with arrangements.