Louise Barfield

Louise Barfield, age 97, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2025, in Blountstown, Florida. Louise was born November 27, 1928, to the late Benny and Lizzie McDaniel. She lived in Blountstown her entire life. She was a homemaker, loved her family, and working in her garden nurturing her flowers and plants. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 49 years, William J. (Bill) Barfield and daughter, Barbara Parker. Louise is survived by her daughters, Sandra (John) Lindsey and Diane (Ernest) Hill and son in law, Rex Parker. Grandchildren Sherry (Thomas) Flowers, Sandy (Jeff) O’Bryan, Susan (Wade) Hall, Mel Lindsey, John (Erin) Parker, Rex Parker Jr. and Jeff (Teresa) Hill. Great-grandchildren, Carson (Shayn) Baggett, Hunter Flowers, Bret O’Bryan, Brylee O’Bryan, Maelee Hall, Carter Hall, Seth (Jikemia) Parker, Natalie (Brendan) Elliott, Grant Parker, Michael Hill, and Megan Hill. Great-great grandchildren Banks Baggett, Scarlet Parker and Jameson Elliott.

The family would like to send a special thank you to Vitas Hospice Nurse Emily Fowler and Blountstown Health and Rehabilitation for making Granny’s last year of life the best it could be. She made new friends, especially her roommate Joanne Heath, and thrived under their care. Flowers will be accepted or donations to Vitas Hospice in her memory.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by funeral services at 11:00 AM on Monday, December 8, 2025 at Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown. Interment will follow at Pine Memorial Cemetery in Blountstown. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home. 

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

   Bernice Coxwell, 89, of Blountstown, FL, left this earth on Thursday, December 4, 2025.  Bernice was born on August 23, 1936, in Blountstown, FL, and lived most of her life in Blountstown.  She was often described by those who knew or met her as being sweet and kind.  She loved spending time with family, telling old stories, and taking naps.  She was a home body but always welcomed visitors with a big smile. She worked primarily as a homemaker but also helped my dad run his business for many years until his passing.  She was an amazing mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt and was dearly loved by all her family. 

She is preceded in death by her husband, Alton Coxwell, Jr.; her sons, Richard “Rickey” Coxwell and Charles “Chuck” Coxwell; her mother, Ollie Whitaker Armstrong; her stepmother, Lula Armstrong; her father, George Armstrong; her brother, Hubert Armstrong; her sister, Verna Neal; and her brother-in-law, Carl Neal.    

She is survived by her son, Michael “Mickey” Coxwell; daughters, Cathy McWaters (Bo) and Peggy Thrasher (Mark); daughter-in-law, Sue Coxwell; sister, Ruth Bracewell (Frank); granddaughters, Heather Raines, Leslie Keel (James), Cayla Norris (Jeremy); Megan McWaters; and Carly McWaters (Adam); grandsons, Chase Thrasher (Jenn) and Camren Coxwell (Brittany); as well as a host of great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, and nephews.   

A memorial service will be held at a later time and will be announced.  All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL.   

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

  Cassidy Garrett Carter, 22 years old, he resided in Altha Fl. and is survived by his mother Maria Michelle Mercer as well as his two older brothers Cody Mercer and Fritz Carter. Along with 3 estranged siblings.

He is survived by his beautiful daughter Amelia Carter and his fiance Emily Young.

He loved doing anything involving his friends and his fiance.

He was always shooting a BB gun or climbing some big tree when he was younger and if he wasn't doing any of that he was fishing or playing his xbox. 

He liked to sit and talk with his momma as well, and his brothers as brotherly love goes. His granny liked to take him to the sheltons public library park to play and swim almost every weekend. A young man gone far too soon, and may he rest in heavenly peace. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 11:00 AM CT at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL 32424.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

  Sterling Joseph (Rooster; Little Prince, The Baby) Miller, 23, of Altha, Fl, left this earth on Thursday, November 27th, 2025.

Rooster was born on September 11, 2002, in Jackson County Fl. and lived his entire life in Altha Fl. He was the definition of a wild man, no woods, creek, river, stream or cave was unexplored by him; and not alone of course right alongside his big brother Jared, Garrett and occasionally Jeremiah and maybe a few more that probably shouldn't be named. He enjoyed catching literally anything from fish to snakes to many other reptiles we will leave out. He truly enjoyed going fishing with his papa and spending time with his dad.

He enjoyed camping out with his fiancé, and anything involving the sun and water. Let's be real anything his brother/s and friends who became brothers wanted to he was always in. But he wasn't just a wild man, he was a great man, a great son, grandson and brother and uncle. 

He was a light, a kind light you don't get to meet but once in a lifetime and he was that light. He shared and showed kindness in more ways than any of us will ever know. 

He was a hardworking pipefitter at JBE sitework LLC. out of Tallahassee Fl. 

He is preceded in death by his Papa, Johnny Miller of Altha Fl, his Nana, Juanita Wheelock of Altha Fl.

He is survived by his Fiancé Bristen Bramblett and stepdaughter Abigale Nichols alongside His Mother and Father Sarah and John Miller of Altha Fl, his granny Sonja Miller of Altha Fl. His Big Daddy Richard Mayo of Altha Fl. His Great uncle's Don Miller and Glenn Miller. Followed by his big brother Jerad Miller along with his big sister Hailey & Christian Barnhart and all his nieces and nephews Chloe, Julianna, Cullen, Remy. Aunts and Uncles, Shelly Smith, Jessica Mayo, Ashley Millard, Staci Mayo, Cory Girardot, Eric Mayo and Courtney, Ricky and Jennifer Mayo, Wilber Miller, and Jeris and Mike Pitts of Albany GA.. His cousins Jason & Kim smith, David & Tana Smith, Steven and Jessica Smith, Zac and Jaelyn, Elijah Wilson, Jeremiah and Sawyer, Carson, Braden, Savanna Nicole, Violet, Izabella and Phoenix, Iriz, Ashlyn, Emma, Bryleigh, Zoe & Ruth, Selah, Parker and Lawson.A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 11:00 AM CT at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL 32424.

Donation Account: Ameris Bank  Account Name is: Sterling Miller Memorial. As well as Cashapp: $Sterlingmemorialfund

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

   William Franklin “Bubba” Knight passed away on December 1, 2025, in Birmingham, AL, after a long and courageously fought battle with heart disease. He faced every challenge with quiet strength, stubborn determination, and, always, his unmistakable sense of humor. Bubba was born on December 12, 1954, in Dothan, AL, to Franklin Harold and Flora Williams Knight. When the family moved to Chipley and settled on the Williams family land, Bubba found the place that shaped him. Bubba spent his youth roaming those hundred acres—bird hunting, deer hunting, and fishing—developing a lifelong love for the outdoors. After graduating from Chipley High School, Bubba attended Chipola Junior College and later earned his Civil Engineering degree from Auburn University in 1978. His career took him to several cities, but it was in Birmingham that his life truly shifted. Through church he grew close to the Fuller family, and in 1982 he married their daughter, Kimberly—the love of his life and his companion for the next 43 years. Together they began an adventure that carried them to Iowa, Texas, and ultimately home again to Chipley. Bubba spent 16 years with the Florida Department of Transportation before moving into the private sector engineering. He was talented in his work, but it was his ability to talk to anyone, anywhere, that opened countless doors. He built friendships across states and countries, leaving behind a trail of people who still smile when they think of a conversation with him. Bubba had a way of making others feel seen and valued—whether for five minutes or fifty years. Bubba was a man with an enormous heart. He gave freely: his wisdom, his compassion, his time, and his listening ear. He had a special ability to show up for people exactly when they needed someone. And though he could fix anything and figure out almost everything, he did it at his own pace—slow enough to drive you crazy, but steady enough to get it right. In 2006, Bubba experienced a major heart event that changed his life. He often said God had spared him for a reason, and he lived the rest of his years with that conviction. He shared openly about his faith, about what God had done for him, and how God could move in the lives of others. He loved wrestling with the muddy, confusing passages of Scripture, but he always came back to the core truth he believed mattered most: that Jesus came, died, and rose again for us. That certainty sustained him through every setback, every struggle, and every moment of grace. Bubba leaves behind his beloved wife of 43 years, Kimberly Knight; daughter and son-in-law, Niki and Travis Peavy; daughter, Bethany Knight; grandchildren, Lesleigh and Logan Peavy; sister and brother-in-law, Gail and Danny Exum; and a great host of friends who became family along the way. All of them carry a piece of Bubba’s kindness, his humor, and his faith with them. To know Bubba was to love him. To be loved by him was a blessing. And his legacy—of generosity, courage, and steadfast faith—will live on in all who had the gift of calling him theirs. Memorial services will be held Saturday December 6, 2025, at Holmes Creek Baptist Church with visitation beginning at 2:00 PM and service at 3:00 PM. Arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL. 

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

   Carlton Edson Van Lierop, age 98, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2025, in Clarksville, Florida. Born in Benton Harbor, Michigan on May 11, 1927 to Johannas C. Van Lierop and Mary Tabor Van Lierop. After graduating high school, Carlton served in the U.SArmy during World War II.

Carlton co-owned Hartford Farms with his cousin Jack, raising gladiolus cut flowers. Carlton was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Blountstown where he served as a Deacon and was also active with The Gideons and Prison Fellowship Ministries. He loved water skiing, rollerblading and cycling, and was affectionately called “Pop” by his grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Ann, and two sons, Carlton Edward and Johannas “Joe” Cornelius. Carlton is survived by his loving wife Marilyn, children Ronni (Angie) Van Lierop, Carla (Jimmy) Hand, Dwight (Sheree) Van Lierop, Daughter-In-Law Debbie Van Lierop, Grandchildren Johann, Johanna, Lauren, Enocha, Rona Lee, Ron Alan, Abby, Emily, Matthew, Carolyne, Joshua, and Caleb, Great grandchildren Elisa, Jace, Gus, Pearl, Penelope, Josie, Jonathan, Ryan, and Emeree; and Brother John (Dianne).

Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 2, at First Baptist Church of Blountstown. Interment will follow at Pine Memorial Cemetery Blountstown FL. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home of Blountstown Fl.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

    Vera Herring Rozier, age 101 years, 9 months, 13 days, passed away in Jackson, Mississippi, on November 21, 2025, closing her eyes to time and opening them to eternity with Jesus. 

Ms. Vera, as she was affectionately called by friends, was born in Bolling, Butler County, Alabama, on February 8, 1924, according to her birth certificate and other records. But she and her twin sister grew up being told that they were born in 1925. 

At about the age of 16, Vera accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior and was baptized in Big Turkey Creek, Awin, Wilcox County, Alabama. Vera graduated from Moore Academy, Pine Apple, Alabama. 

In October 1946, she married and moved to Pensacola, Florida, where two daughters were born. The family moved to Wewahitchka, Florida, in 1956. Vera graduated from Pensacola Beauty College and, in 1961, opened her beauty shop on Highway 71 North in Wewa, where she worked until age 94. In 2013, the Executive Director of the State of Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation sent her a letter commending her for keeping her cosmetology license up-to-date for over 50 years and for owning and operating her own salon for more than 50 years. 

At her city-wide birthday party celebrating 100 years in 2024, the Gulf County Board of Commissioners presented her (and her now deceased twin sister) certificates recognizing and honoring them as the county's oldest citizens.

Vera enjoyed working in her yard and nurturing her flowers and plants. One of her greatest enjoyments was cutting her two-acre yard on her riding lawnmower, which she did up into her 90s. Her handmade biscuits and her butternut cake (that had her special touch) were favorites of her family. Vera was very active in Sunday School, worship, prayer meeting, and a home Bible study at First Baptist Church until her health started to decline. She ate meals at the Senior Center and enjoyed their exercise class there as well as playing bingo and chicken legs dominoes. 

Vera intentionally tried to do one good deed every week, if not every day. She shared Jesus with her family and prayed for them daily. Her greatest desire was that they all accept Jesus as their Savior and Lord. She loved her family beyond measure and was at her happiest when they were all together at her home.

Vera was preceded in death by her husband of 39 years, Malcolm Rozier; her parents, Tom and Exie (Smith) Herring; her sisters, Era Luckie Daniell and Mary Ethel Luckie; and her siblings by her father’s first wife: brothers Richard Herring, King Herring, and Tommy Herring; sister Lillie Smith; and 12 nieces and nephews.

Vera is survived by her daughter Linda Joyce and son-in-law Bill Davis; daughter Doris Ann Wray; five grandchildren: Joylin Simpson (Keith), Kimberly Hood (Jerry), Christy Wray, Tiffany Williamson (Chris), John D. Wray (Esmerelda); seven great-grandchildren: Hannah Wray, Thayer Hood, Karlynn Hood, Elijah Simpson, Anora Williamson, Ella Williamson, and Grayson Wray; former son-in-law, John Thomas Wray; and many nieces and nephews.

The Celebration of Vera's Life will be held at First Baptist Church Family Life Center at 436 Highway 71 South, Wewahitchka, Florida, on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Central time. Friends may visit with the family from 1:00 until service time. 

A Graveside Service will be held at Jehu Cemetery. Bro. Mike Stroud will be officiating. Pallbearers will be Jerry Hood, Thayer Hood, Elijah Simpson, Keith Simpson, Chris Williamson, and John D. Wray. Bill Davis will serve as honorary pallbearer. The family invites everyone to wear pink or purple, Vera's favorite colors. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home of Blountstown FL. Memorials, in appreciation of their assistance to Vera after Hurricane Michael, the family requests that donations be made to: Samaritan's Purse P.O. Box 3000 Boone, NC 28607 or First Baptist Church P.O. Box 787 Wewahitchka, FL 32465

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

  Donald “Don” Hugh Walden, 83, of Frink, Florida, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.

Don was born on October 20, 1942, in Clarksville, Florida, to the late Rev. Otis and Nellie Grace Lindstedt Walden. A proud patriot and devoted family man, Don dedicated 22 years of honorable service to the United States Air Force. Following his military career, he continued serving his country for another two decades as a civilian OSI agent, a role he carried out with unwavering integrity and commitment.

A graduate of Florida State University, Don was a lifelong Seminole and an enthusiastic FSU football fan. Fall Saturdays were sacred, and cheering on the Noles was one of his greatest joys.

Don was married to his beloved wife, Tina Marie, for 55 years until her passing. Their life together was filled with deep love, laughter, and unwavering partnership. In September 2024, Don was blessed to find companionship again when he married his wife, Judy, who brought renewed joy and warmth into his later years.

He loved living in the country, where he found peace in the quiet, open spaces and the simple beauty of rural life.

Don will be remembered for his steady strength, warm heart, and the profound love he held for his family and country. His legacy lives on in all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his three children, Michael Walden and his wife Carlene of Milledgeville, Georgia, daughter Stacey Warner and husband John of Melbourne, Florida, and daughter Marisa Amick and husband Marcus of Dallas, Georgia. Grandchildren, Kristen Capps, Chloe Amick, Matthew Warner, Caitlin Amick, and Ashley Warner. 

Sisters Esther Holland and husband Dr. Willis, the late Barbara Artabasy and husband Greg; and brothers, the late Ted and wife Joan, Glenn Walden and wife Dorothy, Dr. Edmund Walden and wife Sheila, the late Robert Wiltsie and wife Dottie, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held on Sunday November 23, 2025, at Peavy Funeral Home Chapel in Blountstown FL. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM CT, with the funeral service following at 2:00 PM CT. Interment will follow at Magnolia Cemetery in Blountstown FL. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, Florida.     

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

   Annie Lee Larkins McClellan was born on July 21, 1935, in Bristol to Richard and Ida Bateman Larkins. She passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025

Ann was raised on the Florida River at Larkins Fish Camp. After graduating from Liberty County High School, she attended Troy University. Having a double major in P.E. and History, she received a teaching degree. She taught at Chipley High School, Vernon High School, and Liberty County High School. She oversaw the driver’s education program at each school and even created the girl’s P.E. program at LCHS. After her teaching career, she owned and operated McClellan’s Bookkeeping until her retirement. 

In 1955 she married her soulmate Harry V. “Billy” McClellan. They lived in Chipley for 10 years before moving to Blountstown in 1971. Together they spent a lifetime of fishing and camping. 

Ann and Billy had two daughters, Anita (Donnie) Parish of Bristol and Peggy (Tommy) Messer of Blountstown. Ann was Granny to Jamie (Lane) Parish of Bristol, Ric (Jolene) Dabney of Blountstown, Jody (Jessica Sans) Parish of Bristol, and Selena Stone of Tallahassee  . She was GG to Keirra Dabney and Teirra Dabney both of Tallahassee, Kamryn Parish of Blountstown, Konnor Parish of Bristol, Paisley Dabney of Blountstown, Karter Parish, Cason Parish, Kylin Parish, and Kooper Parish all of Bristol. Ann also had several nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Billy, and her sister Marietta Kelly. 

Ann will be terribly missed by all. 

Funeral services will be held Friday November 21, 2025, at 10:00 AM CT at Boggs Cemetery in Blountstown. Casual attire is requested. In lieu of flowers please send donations to either Williams Memorial Methodist Church in Scottsferry, FL or to your favorite charity. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Shirley Shelton White, 84, of Altha, passed away on November 16, 2025.

Born on September 6, 1941, to Earl and Beulah Shelton, Shirley spent her entire life in the Altha community she loved. She graduated from Frink High School in 1959 and continued her education at Chipola Junior College.

Shirley dedicated many years as the secretary for her husband’s business, Jack White Trucking, where her steady presence and hard work were invaluable. She was also a woman of strong faith and a lifelong member of the Baptist tradition.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Leon Shelton; her sisters, Louise Kelly, Oleta Shelton, Jean Etheridge, and Audrey Shelton; as well as two nephews and a niece.

Shirley is survived by her loving husband, Jack White; her sisters, Myrtic Baldwin of Minnesota and Doris Nichols of Blountstown; and her sisters-in-law, Martha Morgan of Altha and Motie Jimenez of Clearwater.

The family held a private service in Shirley’s honor. Those wishing to remember her are invited to make donations to New Shiloh Cemetery.

All arrangements were under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Syble Gwendolyn “Gwen” Strickland, 79, of Blountstown, FL, passed away on November 16, 2025—exactly 79 years after her birth on November 16, 1946, in Cottonwood, AL, to Leo and Estelle Kirkland.

Known to everyone simply as Gwen, she will be remembered for having “a heart the size of Texas.” Her generous love extended to all children and animals. She could often be found sitting by the window watching over her fishpond and her beloved donkeys. Gwen also found joy in flowers, gardening, cooking, and her famous bargain shopping—she had a special talent for finding a good deal wherever she went. She likewise had a natural talent for remodeling and decorating.

Gwen was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Carlos Jerome Kirkland; and her sister, Mary Alice Kirkland. She is survived by her husband, James C. Strickland; brother-in-law, Donald Chambers; niece, Marsha Rudd; nephew, Robert Chambers; and numerous cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Peavy Funeral Chapel. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM CT, followed by the service at 2:00 PM CT. Interment will take place at Nettle Ridge Cemetery in Blountstown.

All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Earnest Richard Dunn was born July 25, 1937, on his family farm in Alger, Michigan, to Willard and Mary Dunn. He was the youngest of seven children. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife and mother of his children, Lois Newsome Dunn, as well as a son, David (Shannon). Also preceding him in death are his siblings Catherine, Wanda, George, and Grace. Ernie is survived by his wife, Betty Brantley Dunn, and brothers John and Jim (Judy). Ernie’s children are Diana (Brian), Richard (Cindy), and Dana (James). Ernie has seven beloved grandchildren, Leah (Jason), Devon (Clay), Claire, Kyra (Darian), Erin (Matthew), Taylor, and Bethany. He was a great grandpa to Myla, Olivia, Alex, Vincent, Caleb, and Willow. Ernie is also survived by three stepchildren — Huey (Barbara), Tim (Nikki), and Karen Brantley Geiger (Shannon) — three step-grandchildren and five step-great-grandchildren. Ernie had many nieces and nephews that he loved dearly, as well as the Newsome family. He had a lifelong love of baseball and deer hunting. He served in the United States AirForce; he was last stationed at Tyndall Air Force Base. After serving in the US AirForce, Ernie sold insurance, and then he began his career with General Motors. He was a past member of the Jaycee Civic Organization, a board member for the Chief Pontiac Federal Credit Union, a business owner, a Little League coach, and a Cub Scout leader. Ernie was the star pitcher for many community softball teams. Ernie was always quick with a joke and a smile. We will all miss him. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday November 11, 2025, at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will begin at 12:00 PM CT and the service at 1:00 PM CT. Interment will be at a later date at Alger Cemetery in Alger Michigan. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

  Christine Ella (White) Bird, 86 years old, was welcomed into the loving arms of Jesus on the afternoon of October 31st, 2025, and is now celebrating with several family members in Heaven. Christine was born in Tioga County, Pennsylvania on July 4th, 1939. She met her husband, Dean, at an early age and they were married when she was 16. She spent her career working as a nurse, but devoted her life to caring for her husband and all those that she loved. It was especially important to her that they all knew that Jesus Christ is Lord. She was very active in the churches she attended throughout her life, including Millerton Wesleyan during her early life and Beach Baptist Chapel for the past 30 years. She is survived by her husband of over 69 years, Dean Bird, and children, Cindy (Keith) Wright, Tom (Sue) Bird, Tim (Deb) Bird, and Mike (Terri) Bird, as well as many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren. Christine was predeceased, and is now reunited in Heaven, by children, Penny (Dave) Stump and Gary Bird. She was passionate about helping children throughout her life and housed around 200 foster children over the years, as well as teaching Sunday school, nursing at Port St Joe High school, and volunteering at a childcare facility. She spread so much love into this world and got it back from everyone that knew her. She wouldn't want us to mourn her passing. She would much rather we celebrate her new life in Glory and think of the Paradise waiting there for all who believe in the Lord, Jesus Christ. So as you remember her, we urge you to think on this verse, a verse that we feel epitomizes Christine and the life she lived. Philippians 4:8
"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." KJV. A memorial service to celebrate Christine's life will be held at Beach Baptist Chapel, 311 Columbus Street, St Joe Beach Florida, at noon Eastern, on November 8th, 2025.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to One More Child, a Christian organization dedicated to providing many of the services that Christine thought most valuable.
To donate to One More Child, you can make checks payable to Beach Baptist Chapel and put "One More Child" in the memo line. Or use one of the methods below...
Website: https://onemorechild.org/give/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/share/1ArwJLdBgU/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Mailing address: One More Child (Monica Blazuk) 1300 South Blvd Chipley, FL 32428. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown FL.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Joseph Earl Spears, age 89, died on October 17, 2025, at his home in Blountstown, Florida. 

Joe was affectionally known by his family and friends as Buddy or Uncle Buddy. He was an avid sports fan and loved watching all sports. He was especially fond of baseball. Joe loved working in his yard and cutting grass. He could be seen quite often picking up paper and trash that gathered from the highway as he always wanted his yard spotless. Joe was known for growing tomatoes and loved sharing his tomatoes with family and friends. He always wanted the first red tomato in the family as well as the largest.

Joe retired from Calhoun County School District as a teacher. He taught mathematics and science at Altha Public School, Carr School, Blountstown Middle School and Calhoun County Adult School. He also did some coaching while working at Altha. Mr. Spears was known for his neat desk; everything had a place.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Vera Spears. He is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Mary Lou and Jimmy Lee Holley. Uncle Buddy’s survivors also include his two nieces and their husbands, Vicki and Eddie Davis and Kay and Ricky Tipton. He is also survived by his great nieces and nephews: Laura Davis, Neil and Jessica Davis, Nicholas and Lindsey Tipton and Nichole Tipton. He cherished his great-great nieces and nephews: Autumn, Cayden, Anistyn, Grayson, Declan, Raelyn and Evie.

Graveside funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at Nettle Ridge Cemetery in Blountstown. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM CT and service at 10:00 AM CT. Peavy Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements. 

If so inclined, memorial donations may be given to the Nettle Ridge Cemetery Fund at 20813 NE McDonald Lane, Blountstown, FL.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Ray Edward Williams, 82, of Clarksville, FL passed away on Monday, October 13, 2025, at Select Specialty Hospital in Panama City Florida after a lengthy illness. Ray was born on October 12, 1943, in Blountstown, Florida to Woodrow Williams and Maldria Floyd Williams. Ray was a millwright and retired in 2010 from Berg Steel Pipe Corporation as the Maintenance Coordinator. He was a 1961 graduated of Blountstown High School and a member of Poplar Head Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Floyd Williams and Charles Lynwood Williams, and a sister-in-law Audrey Marshall Williams. 

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Elaine Attaway Williams; son, Patrick Williams; grandson, Hunter “Ray Ray” Williams; sister, Loretta Shelton; and many nieces and nephews.

Services to honor Ray’s life will be held on Saturday October 18, 2025, at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel in Blountstown, FL with Reverend Billy Melvin and Reverend Gary Richerson officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM CT until service time at 2:00 PM CT. Interment will follow at Poplar Head Cemetery in Clarksville, FL.

Pallbearers will be Rob Dodson, Michael Dodson, Stephen Raisebeck, Jeremy Whitworth, Charles Green, and Steve Williams.

Flowers will be accepted, or donations may be made to your favorite charity. 

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Kevin Thomas Montgomery Jr., born on June 15, 1989, in Eustis, FL was liberated from his worldly sufferings October 8, 2025. Bubba, as he was known to those that loved him, was kind, funny, and a true momma’s boy. Diagnosed with schizophrenia in early adult hood, he fought many one-man battles with the most impressive uppercut one can ever witness. He enjoyed long walks down roads to nowhere, connecting with nature, getting lost and getting into some trouble while doing so.

There will be much mourning in the places where Bubba ran his escapes including here in Blountstown where his mom and dad, Karen and Kevin Montgomery, dedicated their lives to ensuring his happiness and maintaining his full belly. Also, his brother Theodore Montgomery, sister-in-law Allie Montgomery, his favorite sister Amanda Bush, brother-in-law Matthew Bush, his Gemaw, Betty June Montgomery and nieces and nephews Karra Montgomery, Shelley Montgomery, Theodore Montgomery Jr., Maclellan Bush, and Miles Bush. He will also be missed by many friends and family in his hometown of Altoona, FL including his grandma and grandpa Al and Irene Hemmingway, and his aunt Sharon Newmons. He is also survived by his aunt Sharon Montgomery, uncle Keith Montgomery, aunt Debbie Montgomery, and cousins Tyler Newmans, Audra and Lydia, Katie Spencer and Brandon Robinson. 

Services will be held at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel in Blountstown, FL on October 17, 2025, with visitation at 2:00 pm and service at 3:00 pm. All are welcome to join as we celebrate and honor Bubba. 

FOR FLOWERS CALL SHIVER'S FLORIST

   (850) 674-8191 OR (850) 674-4788 

BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Edward Leo Jones, 73, of Hosford, passed away on October 9, 2025. He was born on September 6, 1952, in Gadsden County, Florida, to Donald Earl and Mae Malissa Jones.

Edward was a retired dump truck driver and a certified transmission specialist. He was an avid dog hunter who loved working on his truck and, in his younger days, enjoyed racing it. He could often be found at the corner store, visiting with friends and swapping stories.

Edward was a kind and loving man who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister-in-law, Evelyn Ann (Cato) Jones. He is survived by his brother, David Jones of Hosford, and close family friends, Frances Suggs and her daughter, Adrianna Suggs, both of Hosford.

A graveside funeral service will be held at Hosford Cemetery on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. ET, with the service following at 2:00 p.m. ET. Arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, Florida.

FOR FLOWERS CALL SHIVER'S FLORIST

   (850) 674-8191 OR (850) 674-4788 

BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Stephanie Ann Tarazi, 59, of Tallahassee, passed away at her daughter’s home on October 5, 2025. She was born on September 9, 1966, in Orlando, Florida, to Pamela McIntyre and Terry McIntyre.

Stephanie had a beautiful, creative soul. She loved arts and crafts, poetry, and spending time hunting for treasures while thrifting. Her faith in God was strong, and her love for her family was even stronger. Stephanie’s family was especially proud of her six years of sobriety — a true reflection of her strength, determination, and grace. 

She will be deeply missed by her daughter, Teresa McIntyre of Blountstown; her grandchildren, Cabela Ward, Georgia Girardot, and Jackson Girardot; her mother, Pamela McIntyre of Salt Springs, FL; and her father, Terry McIntyre and Anne Holmes of Blairsville, GA. She also leaves behind her sister, Sherri Rogers of Tallahassee; niece, Leah Rogers; nephew, Tyler Rogers; and great-nephews, Carlin, Blaine, and Colson — all of whom loved her dearly.

Memorialization will be by cremation with Peavy Funeral Home directing the arrangements.

FOR FLOWERS CALL SHIVER'S FLORIST

   (850) 674-8191 OR (850) 674-4788 

BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST