Phyllis Griffin Miller

Phyllis Griffin Miller, 80, of Bristol, Florida passed away peacefully in her home on March 9, 2026. She was born on June 1, 1945, in Montgomery, Alabama to the late Winton Ray Tolar and Louise Williams Tolar.  

Mrs. Miller was best known in the community as a beloved educator. She spent 35 of her 36 years teaching in Liberty and Calhoun Counties. Most of that time was as an English and Social Studies teacher at Blountstown Middle/Jr. High School, where she also spent 5 years as the school’s librarian.  

Mrs. Miller was also a longtime member of the Blountstown United Methodist Church where she served in various leadership capacities over the years.

She was preceded in death by her late husband, Rufus Victor Griffin of Blountstown; her parents Winton Ray and Louise Tolar of Bristol. She is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 37 years, William Frank Miller of Bristol; her sons, Bryan Griffin, his wife Carmen of Hudson, Florida, Tolar Griffin and wife Robyn of Tallahassee; her stepdaughter, Tracy Miller Hall of Scotts Ferry; her stepson, Will Miller, his wife Gina of Bristol; her grandchildren, Macey Prescott (David), Carley Carter (Aaron), Brady Griffin, Sarah Wingrove, Brianna Wingrove, Madyson Griffin, Peyton Griffin, Ricky Bozeman, Karrie Bailey (Trent), Scott Bozeman, Waylon Pitts (Lizzie), Liam Miller, Cane Miller;  her great grandchildren, Rhett Bozeman, Little Ricky Bozeman, Blane Bozeman, Bentley Bozeman, Anthony Bozeman, Teddy Pitts, Johanna Pitts, Andy Pitts; her sisters, Kay Bolden (Harrell), Debbie McDowell (Tom); honorary sister Gail McCaskill (Joe Mike); as well as many nieces and nephews. 

Funeral services will be held on March 13, 2026, at the Blountstown United Methodist Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM CT, followed by the service at 11:00 AM CT.  A private family interment will follow at Lake Mystic Cemetery in Bristol, Florida. Peavy Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. 

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Carlton William Baggett, 84, of Altha, Florida, began his 85th year rejoicing in heaven when he entered his eternal home with Jesus at 12:05 a.m. on March 8, 2026. He passed peacefully with his son, Brent, by his side. In glory he was reunited with his beloved wife, Marie, his parents, and his son, Farlon. 

Carlton was born March 7, 1942, in Marianna, Florida, to John “Pete” and Alma (Deese) Baggett. He spent his life deeply rooted in the faith, family, and farming community of Northwest Florida. 

On September 6, 1958, he married the love of his life, Alma Marie “Sister” Hamilton. Together they built a life centered on God, family, and service to others. 

Carlton answered the call to ministry in 1974 and faithfully served as an Assembly of God minister for more than five decades. He continued preaching and ministering until his health prevented him from continuing about six months ago. His life was marked by a steadfast devotion to the Gospel, a shepherd’s heart, and a deep love for the people he served. 

In addition to his ministry, Carlton worked for many years at Florida State Hospital in Chattahoochee before retiring. He was also an entrepreneur and founded Baggett Tree Planting in 1982, which he operated until selling the business in 2017. Known for his innovation and work ethic, Carlton was the first person to set up a walking irrigation system in Northwest Florida. 

Carlton loved the Lord, his family, and the life he built with his hands. He was known for his quiet strength, enduring faith, and willingness to help others. His legacy is one of hard work, ingenuity, devotion, and unwavering belief in Jesus Christ. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marie Baggett, his parents, John “Pete” and Alma Baggett, and his son, Farlon Baggett, who passed away on January 9, 2026. 

He is survived by his children, Ronda Baggett and Brent (Davie) Baggett; his grandchildren, Amy (Timmy) Kitchen, Sherry (Chucky) McCrone, Levi Baggett, Sam “Wrangler” Baggett (Grace), and Landon Baggett; his great-grandchildren, Kleigh Kitchen, Logan Kitchen, Tarrin McCrone, Raylee McCrone, Sophia Baggett, Ava Baggett, and Sterling Baggett; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. 

Visitation will be held Wednesday, March 11, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. CDT at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel in Blountstown, Florida. Funeral services will be held Thursday March 12, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. CDT at the Cypress Grove Assembly of God Church, 3250 Cypress Grove Road, Grand Ridge, Florida 32442. Interment will follow at the Cypress Grove Cemetery. 

Carlton’s life was a testimony of faith, perseverance, and devotion. While his family grieves his passing, they rejoice in the promise he preached for so many years that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.

Peavy Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. 

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Myrl Cooper McCarley Rackley, age 102, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026, having lived a long and blessed life. She was born on January 30, 1924, in Woodland, Alabama, to Hoyt and Myrtice McCarley. Mrs. Rackley graduated from the University of Montevallo with a degree in Home Economics. In 1945, she moved to Altha, Florida, to begin her teaching career at Altha School. She spent the next 36 years in the classroom, devoting herself to her students and the Altha community. As a Home Economics teacher, she was especially known for teaching countless students how to sew, a practical skill many carried with them throughout their lives. On October 19, 1947, she married Rudolph Rackley. They shared 64 years of marriage together until his passing in December 2011. Mrs. Rackley was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose greatest joy was her family. She loved cooking and always had several desserts prepared whenever family or friends came to visit. She also enjoyed sewing, making all her children’s clothes, as well as many beautiful pageant dresses for her granddaughters. In her later years, she enjoyed reading and traveling with her daughters and granddaughters. Throughout her life, she was admired as a woman of dignity, grace, and class. Her gentle wisdom and gracious example left a lasting impression on her family, her students, and all who knew her. The kindness she showed and the lessons she taught will live on in the generations blessed to call her Mama, Mema, and friend. She was a member of Zion Baptist Church in Woodland, Alabama, and was also lovingly claimed by the congregation of Altha United Methodist Church.
 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Hoyt and Myrtice McCarley; her husband, Rudolph Rackley; her brother, Earl McCarley; her sister, Margaret McCarley Golden; and two sons-in-law, Kenny Peacock and Larry Eldridge.
 

Mrs. Rackley is survived by five children: Rudolph Rackley, Jr., Jay Hoyt Rackley, Harriett Peacock Eldridge, and Hilda Edenfield (Greg), all of Altha, Florida; and Gilda Stewart (Joe) of Woodland, Alabama. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren.
 

Visitation will be held Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 5:00 PM CT until 7:00 PM CT at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel in Blountstown, Florida.
 

Funeral services will be held Sunday, March 8, 2026, at 2:00 PM CT at the Altha United Methodist Church, with interment to follow at Mount Olive Cemetery in Altha.

If anyone would like to make donations in Mrs. Rackley’s name, the family requests those be made to either Altha High School Culinary or Library. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, Florida.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Guy Cromer Martin, 77, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2026. He was born October 28, 1948, in Anderson, South Carolina to the late Charles F. Martin Jr. and Sybil Martin. 

Mr. Martin proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam Era as an Aviation Ordinance Man. During his service he was stationed aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ticonderoga, serving in the Mediterranean Sea from 1967 to 1971. Following his military service, Guy devoted his professional life to banking, where he built a respected career and eventually retired as President of Martin County Credit Union. After retirement in 2009, he relocated to Wewahitchka, where he enjoyed a quieter life surrounded by family. 

He is survived by his son, Chad Martin (Tonya); his grandchildren, Ivy Baldwin (Cody), Salis Martin (Grayson), and Ellie Morris (Zac); his six great grandchildren, Mae, Rae, Winnie, Myles, August, and Etta Jean. He is also survived by his brothers, Charles “Mike” Martin and Terry Martin. 

Guy will be remembered for his service to his country, his dedication to his work, and most importantly for the love he had for his family. He leaves behind a legacy carried on through the generation who him as Dad, Pawpaw, and friend. We’ll miss you Old Man.

Memorialization will be by cremation with a celebration of life planned for a later date. Peavy Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.   

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

 Erma Lee (Smith) Davis, 87, passed away on February 26, 2026. She was born on July 24, 1938, in Winter Haven to Simon Peter and Evelyn Smith.

Erma worked as a secretary for the Polk County School Board. She loved fishing, singing, and listening to gospel music. She faithfully served in her church, teaching Sunday school and Missionettes, and was a member of the Red Hat Society. Erma loved going to church and cooking for everyone, but most of all, she loved her family deeply.

She is survived by her devoted husband, James Ocskay Davis of Kinard; her son, Jamie Davis and wife Lisa of Kinard; her daughter, Janet Davis of Auburndale; her grandchildren, Andrew Davis and wife Madison of Lakeland, and Sierra Sombric and husband Paul of Orlando; her great-grandchildren, Micah Sombric and Elliott Sombric; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on March 3, 2026, at Glad Tidings in Wewahitchka. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM CT, followed by the service at 11:00 AM CT. Interment will follow at Pine Memorial Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

John Wayne Hayes, 81, of Quincy, Florida, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, February 22, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 27, 1944, in Cottondale, Florida, to the late Otis V. Hayes and Belle D. Hayes.

After graduating in 1964, he married his sweetheart, Patricia Rudd Hayes, on June 13, 1965. They shared 60 wonderful years of marriage and together raised three children: Timothy Wayne Hayes (Marie), Patricia Lynn McDaniel (John), and Deborah Gail Sellers (Gary).

He was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren: Sarah, Morgan (Slade), Hunter (Jamie), Landon (Caitlyn), Gabbi, Garrett, Jacob, Carlis (Melanie), Brittny, and Caleb; and a loving great-grandfather to six great-grandchildren: Elizabeth, Brody, Mae Mae, Hadley, Braxton, and River, with two more great-grandchildren on the way.

He was preceded in death by his siblings, Glenda Hayes Beach (Robert) and Gwynn Hayes (Mary Joyce).

John Wayne dedicated 50 years of hard work to his business, Hayes Remodeling and Repair, after retiring from U.S. Plywood. Known throughout Gadsden County for his strong work ethic, he repaired and built countless homes. A true Master Builder, if it could be imagined or built, Wayne could build it.

He was a faithful member of Grace Baptist Church for 46 years and was a fine Christian man who loved the Lord and cherished fellowship with friends and family.

While he enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, and fishing, nothing compared to the love he had for his family. He also loved music, especially singing and playing the harmonica, and took great pride in watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow.

He will be fondly remembered for telling the best jokes, making people laugh, and for his famous fried chicken and cowboy beans.

His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday February 25, 2026, at Calvary Baptist Church in Chattahoochee, FL. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM ET followed by the service at 11:00 AM ET. Interment will be at Hayes Hill Family Cemetery in Quincy. Arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown. 

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Our precious, sweet mama, Cynthia “Marie” Kimbrel, was surrounded by family at Bay Medical Hospital as she gained her wings and moved to her eternal home on Saturday, February 21, 2026. She has joined her husband, Donnie Kimbrel, in their forever home where they are at last together again. In 2003, Marie saved Donnie’s life by giving him one of her kidneys. Donnie went to heaven in 2022, and Marie has missed him every single day of those 3 years. It brings us peace knowing they are together again. 

Marie was born on February 8, 1962, to Imogene and Johnny Kelly. Her siblings include John Kelly (Norma), Dwanna Kelly Mullins, Ricky Kelly, Sherry Kelly Daffin, Allen Kelly (Mary), as well as her bonus brothers, Leroy Newton and Ronald Whiting. She is leaving behind her daughter, Brandy Kimbrel, and son, Magnum Kimbrel, her grandchildren, Garrett Webb, Grace Riley, Trinity Kimbrel, Peyton Kimbrel, and Jayce Kimbrel. She is also leaving behind a host of nephews, nieces, extended family, and friends that will always love her.

Marie had a long career as a nurse and worked with the Calhoun County Health Department until she retired. She was not just a nurse; she lived it in every aspect of her life. She was known for her “quick” brain and wealth of knowledge about medical issues. A special thing people noted about Marie was her non-judgement of people and situations. She had a gift for making people feel special and loved no matter who they were or what they had done. 

Marie was known for her great loyalty and love for her family. There was no distance too far to travel when they needed her. She was the lighthouse and the anchor that held everything together, and life without her will not be the same. 

Services will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown. Visitation will be at 10:00 AM CT and service will be at 11:00 AM CT. Her nephew, Jesse Kelly, will be officiating, and a special graveside service will be held later with family.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Craig Lee Baldwin, 65, passed away suddenly on February 13, 2026. 

Craig was born on September 28, 1960, in Alpena, Michigan, and moved to Calhoun County in his late teens, where he made his life and raised his family. He worked in the logging woods for over 30 years, a career that reflected his strength, perseverance, and understanding of hard work.

He was known to be a generous man, the kind of person who would give anything he owned to those in need. Craig loved his family deeply, especially his five sons, and took great pride in each of them. He carried a lifetime of practical knowledge and wisdom. Guiding his sons through projects, home renovations and life lessons, teaching them how to do things the right way.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Baldwin and Shirley Butchard, and his brother, William J. Alever.

He is survived by his sons Triniti Baldwin (children Sofia, Ezra, and Londyn); Cory Baldwin (son Elian); Cody Baldwin (Ivy) (daughters Mae, Rae, and Winnie); Cole Baldwin (Destiny); and Casey Baldwin (son Finn). He is also survived by his sisters Georgia Alever of Florida, Judy Cook of Oregon, and Jenny Sevener of Oxford, Michigan, along with many friends who loved him dearly.

Craig will be remembered for his generosity, his guidance, and his unwavering love for his family. As well as his sweet tooth and love for snack cakes.

A private celebration of life will be held by his sons. The family appreciates all of the love, support and prayers shown to them during this time.

Peavy Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Jack Verlin Peddie, 86, of Bristol, passed away at his home, Friday, February 13, surrounded by his wife of 67 years, Marilyn, and his children. He was born on October 20, 1939, in Bristol, FL to Alfred and Nolie Peddie. 

After graduating Liberty County High School in 1957, Jack entered the Navy where he served 3 years, during which time he married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn. After his service, they returned to Bristol. Jack worked as a project supervisor for Specialty Contractors for 40 years. 

Jack was very active his whole life. He loved hunting with his son, Kevin and his brother, Buster.  He later developed a love for salt-water fishing, scuba diving, and spear fishing… keeping his family supplied with grouper. During his later years he continued to fish in the Apalachicola River, bringing home bream for the family fish-fries. Jack was most known for his sense of humor. He had funny nicknames for his family and friends, and everyone loved sitting and having a chat with him, listening to tales of his experiences in the navy or hunting and diving trips. 

Jack was preceded in death by his brother, Buster Peddie, sister, Lavonia Israel, and his parents Alfred and Nolie Peddie. 

He is survived by his wife Marilyn Peddie, son Kevin Peddie (Karen), daughters Kelly Umphress (Tommy), and Kammy Mann; his grandchildren Kyler Peddie (Donna), Kendall Meikenhous (Ryan), Jordan Bennett (Gwen), Joshua Bennett, and Jake Umphress and 3 great-grandchildren, Alexa, Marly, and Jayden. 

Memorial services for Jack will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will begin at 11:00 am ET with service at 12:00 ET. Interment will follow at Lake Mystic Cemetery in Bristol. Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown is in charge of all arrangements.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Annette Hill, 64, of Blountstown, Florida passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at her home surrounded by loved ones. Born on July 15, 1961, in Blountstown to Junior and Jeannette Hill. Annette was a tax preparer for H & R Block in Blountstown for over twenty years. She enjoyed going to the beach, dancing, fishing, FSU sports, watching her grandkids compete in sports, and spending time with family including her occasional trips to Atmore. She was preceded in death by her parents, Junior and Jeannette Hill, a sister, Kathleen “Kat” Segers. She was survived by a loving partner of many years, Brian Shiver; their beloved dog, Sassy Hill; two brothers, Johnny Hill and Ruben Hill; three sons, Eddie Lee and wife Brooke, Jamie Lee and wife Jennifer, and Jodie Lee and wife Chasity; ten grandchildren, Jordan, Jensen, Carrie, Kensley, Raelynn, Jaxon, Marcela, Robert, Deisy, Ester; one great grand, Tydus; a host of nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. 

Visitation will be held on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 1:00 PM CT at the Bailey-Wood Cemetery on John F. Bailey Road in Blountstown with the funeral service to follow at 2:00 PM CT. Arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home. 

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Natalia A. Tindell, age 83, of Bristol, Florida, passed away on February 7, 2026. She was born on March 10, 1942, in Bristol, Florida, to Leonard and Mary Owens.

Natalia was of the Pentecostal faith and lived her life rooted in her love for the Lord and her family. She enjoyed reading and flower gardening, but her greatest joy was time spent with those she loved most.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Mary Owens; her husband, James Tindell; two infant sons; her son, Jeffery Tindell; her sisters, Cleo Phillips, Peggy Jacobs, and Mary L. Rubel; and her nephew, Darrell Johnson.

She is survived by her children, Leslie Tindell and Josh Tindell; her grandchildren, Tristan (Trinity), Weston, Nolan, Lucas, Haven, Brooklyn, Autumn, and Julian; her great-grandchildren, Liam, Ezra, and Greycen; her special nephew, Kent Jacobs; her special friend, Mark Jarutt; and many other loving nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on February 11, 2026, at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM CT, followed by the service at 2:00 PM CT. Interment will follow at Lake Mystic Cemetery in Bristol.

Arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home of Blountstown.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Cecilia Ann Collins, 77, of Bristol, passed away on February 5, 2026.

Cecilia was born on September 4, 1948, in Wewahitchka to Sanford and Sarah Armstrong. She was known for her strong work ethic and dedication, having delivered newspapers for the Panama City News Herald for many years. Cecilia was a strong, loving woman full of wisdom—hardworking, devoted, and deeply cherished as a mother and grandmother. She loved fishing and spending time with her family, moments that brought her the greatest joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Carlee Daniels Sr.; her second husband, Jacky Lee Collins; her son, Carlee Daniels Jr.; her grandchild, Tracy Minchew; her brother, Carlton Armstrong; and her sister, Eunice Daniels.

Cecilia is survived by her son, Keith Daniels Sr. of Bristol; her daughters, Kimberly Price of Bristol and Robin McDonald (Perry) of Wewahitchka; her grandchildren, David McDonald (Laura), Warren McDonald (Marcia), Ryan McDonald, Kenny Price Jr. (Elizabeth), Shannon Daniels Jr., Jessica Price, Brittany Capps, Raven Daniels, Gina Crane (Doug), Bonnie Peterson, and April Boarders (Woody); along with multiple great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Graveside funeral services will be held on February 10, 2026, at Cypress Creek Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 12:00 PM CT, followed by the service at 1:00 PM CT. Arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Hazel Irene Capps, 84, of Blountstown, passed away Tuesday, February 4, 2026, at Blountstown Health and Rehab.

Hazel was born September 15, 1941, to Charles “C.E.” McDaniel and Mildred Glisson McDaniel Brown. She lived in Calhoun County her entire life. At the age of 15, she married the love of her life, C.L. Capps, and together they built a life rooted in family and community.

Hazel was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Blountstown and was also a member of the Red Hat Society. She loved to travel and was always happiest when she was on the go, enjoying time with family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, C.L. Capps; her son, C.L. Capps Jr.; her parents, C.E. McDaniel and Mildred Brown; her sisters, Alice Nell Goff and Diane Reese; and her niece, Belinda Harris.

She is survived by her daughters, Cindy Capps Lollie (Terry) and Tammy Capps Harrell (Glen); her grandchildren, Cal Hayes (Casey), Clarissa Cooper (Daniel), Corey Capps (Selena), Ceairra Capps (Jordan), and Jerrod Waldron (Kaycee); eighteen great-grandchildren; her niece, Millie Sullivan; and her nephew, Eddie Baggett.

Graveside funeral services will be held Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Pine Memorial Cemetery in Blountstown. Visitation will begin at 12:00 p.m. CT, followed by the service at 1:00 p.m. CT. Peavy Funeral Home is directing.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Kenneth Alan Keel, age 64, passed away peacefully at his home in Clarksville, Florida, surrounded by loved ones, on February 1, 2026. He was born on February 17, 1961, in Panama City, Florida, to James Benjamin Keel and Edith Aileen Dooling Keel. Ken moved to Clarksville with his family in the early seventies where they built and operated Keel’s Store. 

On June 20, 2009, Ken married the love of his life, Lori Bragg Keel. Together they shared a devoted marriage and enjoyed watching their children and grandchildren grow.

Ken worked for 20 years as an independent distributor for Little Debbie. He was widely known as a hardworking and capable man. His strong work ethic and dependability left a lasting impression on all who knew and worked with him.

Outside of work, Ken greatly enjoyed spending time outdoors and had a deep love for deer and turkey hunting and fishing—pastimes he cherished and often shared with family and friends. As a Christian, Ken had a strong faith in God. Ken will be remembered for his steadfast faith, strong work ethic, love of the outdoors, and deep commitment to his family and community. 

Ken was preceded in death by his father, James Keel; mother, Edith Keel; brother, John Wayne Brown, and his niece, Shannon Brown.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lori Bragg Keel; his son, James Alan Keel (Leslie); his daughter, Lori Renee Keel, Rubin Dunaway, Cindy Johnson (Zack); his grandchildren, Jeremiah Keel, Abigail Keel, Jonathan Keel, Jonah Keel, Ava Keel, Anaiah Keel, Jaydon Yon, Jaxon Yon, KateLynn Dunaway, Tommy Dunaway, AdeLynn Dunaway, Luke Johnson, Dean Johnson, Kara Johnson; as well as dear friends.

Services will be held Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel in Blountstown, Florida. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM CT and funeral service at 11:00 AM CT. Interment will follow at Pippin Cemetery in Clarksville, FL. Arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Melanie Ann Barfield Tatum, born August 3, 1963, in Milton, Florida, to William Eugene and Missy Barfield, passed away peacefully. Melanie was retired from Tatum’s Hardware, where she was known for her kindness and friendly spirit. She had a special love for her fur babies, especially her beloved cats, who brought her great comfort and joy.

Melanie was preceded in death by her husband, Jodie Eugene Tatum, Sr., and her infant son, Jodie Eugene Tatum, Jr.

She is survived by her daughter, Emily Carey; her grandchildren, Khaleesi and Lincoln Carey; her brother, Bud Barfield; her sister, Linda Gay; many cousins whom she loved dearly; and several dear friends who supported and cared for her in many ways during her final days.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 1:00 PM CT at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Page Pond Cemetery in Altha. Arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made toward funeral expenses.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST