Gwendolyn Tucker Sapp

Gwendolyn Tucker Sapp, 78, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2025. Born on February 11, 1946, in Wewahitchka, FL, to James and Cletter Tucker, Gwen devoted her life to caring for her family as a loving homemaker. She and her husband, Joseph, shared 63 wonderful years of marriage, a journey marked by faith, love, and service. Together, they played a vital role in building several churches, a reflection of their deep commitment to their faith. Gwen had a profound love for the Lord and a passion for music. A self-taught guitarist, she spent many years singing in church, considering it a blessing to serve in that way. She was preceded in death by her parents, James E. Tucker and Cletter Dell (Melvin) Tucker; her son, Joseph Wayne Sapp; brothers Bill Tucker, Brant Tucker, Donald Earl Tucker, and David Tucker; and sisters Hazel Crutchfield, Mary Yon, and Ann Kent. Gwen is survived by her devoted husband, Joseph Sapp of Blountstown, FL; her children, William Earl Sapp and wife Wendi of Hoopeston, IL, and Rebecca Cabezas of Marianna, FL; brothers William Tucker (Angie) of Bristol, FL, Wayne Tucker (Monica) of Bristol, FL, and Johnny Tucker (Shebretia) of Wewahitchka, FL; sisters Brenda Neel of Wewahitchka, FL, and Eva Tanton (Dennis) of Bonifay, FL; eight cherished grandchildren; and many beloved great-grandchildren. A funeral service to honor Gwen’s life will be held on February 7, 2025, at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM CT, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM CT. Interment will take place at Pine Memorial Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL. Gwen’s legacy of love, faith, and devotion to family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Harriet R. Reeves, 90, a devoted wife, mother, and teacher, peacefully passed away on January 30, 2025, joining her Lord and Savior. Her legacy will forever endure through the countless lives she touched during her remarkable career, her deep love of music, and her unwavering faith. Born on May 21, 1934, in Blountstown, Harriet was the daughter of James Ramsey and Kathleen (Boggs) Ramsey. As a passionate educator, Harriet dedicated much of her life to teaching. She began her career at the University of Miami and later continued at Chipola Community College after moving to Bristol, FL. Harriet’s love for music was a defining part of her life—whether it was through teaching, playing the piano, or sharing her beautiful voice with the community. Her musical talents and kind spirit left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. Harriet was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank Reeves, her parents, James and Kathleen Ramsey, and her brother and sister-in-law, Andrew and Eloise (Wisa) Ramsey. She is survived by her two daughters, Melisa (Lisa) Gonzales and Karla Kneece; her grandchildren, Clay Gonzales, Craig Gonzales and his wife Jaclyn, and their son Colton; Lauren Wagoner and her husband Jacob, along with their daughter Athena. She is also survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Kate and Ronnie Langston, and their children Suzanne Barwick and Steven Langston; her brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Sue Ramsey, and their children, Rebecca DeVuyst, Allyson Howell, and Chad Ramsey. Harriet’s deep love for her family, her community, and her faith shaped her life in profound ways, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of her family, her church family, her students, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her. Harriet will be remembered for her strength, warmth, and unwavering devotion to her loved ones. Funeral services will be held at Lake Mystic Baptist Church on Friday, February 7, 2025. The visitation will begin at 10:00 AM ET and the service at 11:00 AM ET. Interment will follow at Lake Mystic Cemetery. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Ernest Bailey, 80, of Blountstown passed away on January 30, 2025. Ernest was born on December 20, 1944, to Ernest Bailey Sr and Nora Griffin. He enjoyed drinking and fishing. His survivors include sons, Greg and Phyllis Bailey of Blountstown, and Eddie and Belinda Bailey of Cross City; daughter, Teresa and Joseph Flowers of Blountstown; brother, James Kirkland; sisters Annette Hires, Libby Griffin, and Sherry Sanders; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on February 2, 2025, at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM CT and the service at 2:00 PM CT. Interment will follow at Williams Memorial Cemetery in Scotts Ferry. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL. 

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Joseph Matthew Davis, 74, passed away on January 22, 2025. Joe was born on October 16, 1950, in Calhoun County to N.A. and Verbie Davis. He was the chip mill manager for Shuler Brothers and enjoyed hunting, fishing, horse riding, raising dogs, running deer dogs, and loved to eat his southern food. Joe was preceded in death by his father, N.A. Davis; mother Verbie Davis; brother Skeet Davis; daughter Annie Marie Mitchell; son-in-law Gary Cox; stepson Edmund Baughman; brother-in-law Tom Long. Joe is survived by his wife of 40 years, Annie Davis; two sons, Matthew Davis (Shay) of Marianna and Jimmy Mitchell (Casie) of Dellwood, FL; daughter Rhonda Cox of Marianna; grandchildren Jerad Miller, Melinda Bishop, Hardy Mitchell, Cassy Walker (Austin), Cody Clark, Jasie Mitchell, Carson Mitchell, Terra Lane Mitchell, Justin Barnes; great grandchildren Aurelius Bishop, Chloe Miller, Easton Walker, Blaire Walker; brother Ricky Davis (Debbie) of Sneads; sister Barbara Long of Crawford, AL; sister-in-law, Barbara Davis of Blountstown; and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held on Monday January 27, 2025, at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will begin at 2:00 PM CT and service at 3:00 PM CT. Interment will follow at the Davis Family Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Nellie Bryant, 77, of Blountstown passed away on Tuesday, January 21, 2025. Nellie was born in Rabun Baldwin County Alabama on March 10, 1947, to the late Hubbard and Lugenia (Stacey) Hall. She enjoyed canning fruits and veggies, gardening, and cooking big meals for her family whom she dearly loved. Nellie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 28 years Billy (Buck) Bryant, a son David, infant daughter Melissa Lee, siblings Edna, Della, and Norman, and mother-in-law Essie (Hill) Syfrett. Survivors include daughter Karen Ann, sons, Billy Joe and Eric, 7 grandchildren Jessica, Skyler, Trevor, Kim, Issac, Sheri, and Candy, 12 great-grandchildren, brother Junior Hall, sister Kathy Dabney, and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held on January 27, 2025, at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM CT and funeral at 11:00 AM CT. Interment will follow at Pine Memorial Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL. 

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Jennie Dee (Fant) Stricker, 79, of Altha, passed away on January 14, 2025. Jennie was born on January 24, 1945, to the late Albert and Trudie Fant. She enjoyed fishing, gardening, antiquing, and flowers. Most of all she loved spending time with her family. Jennie was preceded in death by her husband Ivan Stricker; son Marty Smiley and daughter Fe Smiley; siblings, Phillip Fant, William Fant, Dolly Mercer, Lillian Bramblett, Julia O’Bryan, Karen Blackburn, Beneva Mayo, Carolen Anemos, Thelma Fant, and half-brother, Carl Fant.  Survivors include sons, Stephen Smiley (Katie) of Altha, Buel Smiley (Deb) of Texas; grandchildren, Stephen Jr., Stephanie, Anisha, Haleigh; five great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews. Funeral services will be held on January 23, 2025, at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel. The visitation will begin at 11:00 AM CT and service at 12:00 PM CT with Pastor Allan Austin officiating. Interment will follow at Old Shiloh Cemetery. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Patricia Ann Kemp,69, of Wewahitchka, passed away on January 12, 2025. She was born to Charles and Betty Bailey on January 28, 1955. Patricia enjoyed gardening, fishing, cooking, Christmas time, and watching Wheel of Fortune every day. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sons, David Kemp and Tracy Kemp, and her brother, Bud Bailey. She leaves behind her husband, Alva Houston Kemp of Wewahitchka; her son Frederick Kemp of Gulf County; daughter Jennifer Kemp of Washington County; 7 grandchildren; and 3 sisters. Graveside funeral services will be held on January 20, 2025, at the Kemp Cemetery in Wewahitchka. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM CT and service at 2:00 PM CT with Pastor Michael Morris officiating. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL. 

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Robert Ray Phillips Sr., 88, of Bristol, passed away on January 13, 2025. Robert was born to Buford and Almeda Phillips in Liberty County on October 8, 1936. He worked as an auto parts salesman in Blountstown and later for the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Maxie Phillips, grandson John Revell, and his brother, Donald Phillips. He is survived by his son, Robert Ray Phillips Jr. of Bristol, FL; daughters, Marsha Revell and husband Gene of Tallahassee, FL, Deborah Bridges and husband Kenneth of Indian Trail, NC; grandchildren, Torie D Sanders, Troy Lynne Sanders, Bill Revell, Allison Pratt; great-grandchildren, Madison Love, Alden Harper, Morgan Harper, Chelsea Baggett, Ty Revell, Taylor Kate Revell, Blanton Revell, McCoy Pratt, Coralee Pratt; several great-great grandchildren; brother, Francis Phillips; sister Betty Jane Bickley; and a host nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held on January 18, 2025, at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM ET and service at 2:00 PM ET. Interment will follow at the Bristol Cemetery. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL. 

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Mary Alice Jenkins, 65, of Hosford, FL, passed away on January 14, 2025. She was born to David and Helen Todd on November 26, 1959. Alice found joy in fishing, traveling, gambling, cooking for her grandchildren, spending time with her family, and at Carabelle Beach. She was preceded in death by her parents, David and Helen Todd; her brother, Clyde Todd; and her sister, Jessica Tolar. Alice is survived by her daughters, Anita Johnson (husband, Packy) of Hosford and Ashley Godwin (husband, John) of Blountstown; her grandchildren, Christin Henderson, Kasey Piercy, Mary Godwin, Hunter Godwin, and Preston Godwin; her great-grandchildren, Londyn McConnell and Koen Belton; as well as her siblings, David Todd, Ginger (Ronnie) Hathaway, Angel Everett, Lottie Ferrell, and Natalie Johnson. Alice’s memory will live on through the love she shared with her family and the many cherished moments they spent together. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. A funeral service will be held on January 17, 2025, at Peavy Funeral Home Chapel, with visitation starting at 1:00 PM ET and the service beginning at 2:00 PM ET. Interment will follow at Wesleyan Cemetery in Hosford. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Jimmy Carol Lee, 64, of Blountstown Florida, entered eternal rest on Saturday, January 11, 2024. He was the son of Minnie Lee Bodiford and James Lee. Jimmy was a lifelong employee at Cumbaa Monument Services and Scrap Metal. He also enjoyed fishing and tinkering with cars and anything that went fast. Jimmy is survived by his sons Kenneth and James Lee of Blountstown. His family included five brothers, James Eddie Lee of Blountstown, Ronald S. Lee of Virginia, Carlton Wayne Lee, Gerald Allen Lee, and Keith Allen Lee all of Blountstown Florida. He is also survived by six sisters, Deborah Anne Hagerman and Ken, Rhonda Lisa Blocker, Brenda Jean Elgass and Richard, Mary Jane Moore and Rocky, and Vaneisa Michelle Faircloth and Joe Davis all of Blountstown, Florida, and Lawanda Diane Ammons and Joe Davis of Bristol, Florida. Memorial services will be held on January 16, 2025, at the Peavy Funeral Home chapel. Visitation will begin at 3:00 PM CT with the service starting at 4:00 PM CT. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

  Frances Jean Hill of Sumatra passed away January 11, 2025, in Tallahassee, FL. Frances was born in Wausau, FL to Willie and Beatrice McQuagge on March 3, 1944. Frances was a homemaker who enjoyed fishing and working in her yard. She especially loved tending her rose bushes. Frances was preceded in death by her parents; her daughters, Karen Hill Hadoway and Cathy Hill; her brothers, Buddy McQuagge and John McQuagge; and her sister, Virginia McNeil. She is survived by her: sons, Billy Ray Hill Jr., Christopher Bryant Hill (wife Carolyn), and Michael Hill (wife Kala); her daughter, Melinda Hill Tipton; her brother, Carlton McQuagge; as well as numerous cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Memorization will be by cremation. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Clifford Wayne Varnum, 71, of Altha, Florida, passed away on January 2, 2025. Born on October 22, 1953, to Clifford Brooks Varnum and Thelma Irene Clemons, Clifford was a diesel mechanic by trade and an avid junker who loved all his many treasures in his yard. He was a jack of all trades. If it broke, he could fix it and just had a love for all things mechanically, except Fords. Clifford also had a real passion for collecting and fixing up old tractors, but his greatest passion was his family and grandchildren. Clifford was preceded in death by his parents, CB Varnum and Irene Clemons; two brothers-in-law, Bill Adkins and Bobby Bailey; his daughter-in-law, Lora Varnum; and his lifelong friend, Donnie Kimbrel. He is survived by his sisters, Diane Adkins and Hilda Bailey; his children, Michael Varnum (Hollie), Katrina Reeder (Jasper), Michelle Donahue (Devyn), Dustin Varnum, Brooks Varnum (Vanessa), Candy Varnum, and Dakota Varnum; twenty grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two nieces; two nephews; and many great-nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly. A funeral service to celebrate Clifford's life will be held on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel in Blountstown, Florida. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM (CT), followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM (CT). Interment will take place at Red Oak Cemetery in Blountstown. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

  Rebecca Lee “Becky” Barber Hempstead 75 went home to be with the Lord while surrounded by her loving family on Monday December 30, 2024. Becky was born on January 15, 1949, in Marianna, FL to Albert Douglas and Evelyn Barber. She was a member of Corinth Baptist Church in Hosford, FL, and a member of the Eastern Star. She worked with the Leon County Tax Collector as The Chief Deputy of Finance and retired after 33 years. Becky loved her family and Church family and enjoyed spending time with them and traveling with her sisters. She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert Douglas Barber and Evelyn Glass Barber and her husband, Gene Hempstead. Becky is survived by her children, Melissa and David Hargrove, Ken and Michelle Vanderen, Grandchildren, Colby and Kaylah Hargrove, Caleb and Kaitlyn Vanderen, and two great grandchildren, and her siblings, Sherry (Charles) Gilbert, John (Gloria) Barber, Libbie (Dale) Branning, Jackie (Greg) Ball, Ginger (George) Martin and a host of nieces and nephews and other family and friends.  Visitation will be held Tuesday January 7, 2025, at 11:00 am (EST) with funeral services following at 12:00pm (EST) at Corinth Baptist Church in Hosford, FL. Grave side services will be held at 2:30 pm (CST) at Cottondale First Baptist Cemetery in Cottondale, FL. All arrangements are under the direction of Marlon Peavy at Peavy Funeral Home Blountstown, FL.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Christopher Allen Creel, 39, tragically lost his life in an accident on December 30, 2024. Christopher was a vibrant and adventurous spirit who lived each day with passion, joy, and a deep love for the outdoors. His unexpected departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his memory will forever live on in the beauty of the world he so loved. Whether fishing along serene rivers or in open waters, hiking through outdoor trails, or conquering a challenging rock climb, he found joy in every adventure. His love for riding his motorcycle was another extension of his adventurous spirit. Beyond his love for adventure and the outdoors, Christopher was always happiest when surrounded by those he loved, and his most cherished thing in life was his family. His caring heart, infectious smile, and ability to brighten any room will be missed by all who knew him. Christopher is survived by his parents, Jerome and Lazelle Creel, of Blountstown, FL; two sisters, Renee (Kevin) Williams and Amanda (Jamie) Shiver, of Bristol, FL; young children, Ty and Charlotte Creel and bonus son Levi Morrison; fiancé, Kate Morrison; and several loving nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Charles and Ruth Creel, of Blountstown, FL; maternal grandmother, Nora Deese, of Blountstown, FL; maternal grandfather, Jay Deese of Bristol, FL; and nephew, Jamie Jr. Services will be held on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at Rivertown Community Church in Blountstown with Pastor Dustin Malphurs officiating. Visitation will begin at 2:00 PM CT and the service at 3:00 PM CT. Arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Shirley Ann Hastings of Alford, FL passed away Tuesday, December 31, 2024. Shirley was born to Howard and Myrtle Finch on February 11, 1934, in Chenango Bridge New York. She made Florida her home in the 1960s. She worked as a CNA for most of her life, retiring at 76. She enjoyed singing, whistling, playing the accordion, listening to music, and spending time with family and friends. She was an avid baker and would supply family and friends with her marvelous baked goods during the holidays. She was a Christian and loved reading her bible and attending church services. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, husband, James Richard Hastings, oldest brother, Bill Finch, oldest son, Lynn Wood, and youngest son, Robert Hastings. She is survived by her brother Robert Finch of Alabama, Sons: Gary Wood and wife Tonya of Woodville, Kevin Anderson of Alabama, Bill Wells and wife Meredith of Alford, and Rick Hastings and wife Teri of Winter Haven. Daughters: Kathy Dempsy and husband Donnie of Greensborough, Judy Acree of Davenport, and Donna Hornberger and husband Martin of Georgia. She dearly loved her (21) grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. During her last years, she became especially fond of Meredith and Cheryl Wells (aka “Hey Girls”) who cared for her. Visitation and funeral services will be held on January 6, 2025, in Blountstown, FL at Peavy Funeral Home. Visitation starts at 1:00 pm, funeral at 2:00 pm followed by interment at Pine Memorial Cemetery, Blountstown, FL. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home. 

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Michael Addis Free passed away on December 21, 2024, near Altha, Florida. Mike was born on May 16, 1957 in Marianna, Florida, to the late Addis and Delzia Free. Mike was a lifelong resident of Tallahassee, FL where he lived a life filled with joy, hard work, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. He was a proud and devoted Mason of Jackson Lodge in Tallahassee. He cherished the time he spent with his Masonic brothers and lived by the principles of brotherhood, charity, and service. For those who knew him well, Mike had a heart of gold. He was always ready to lend a hand to those in need. This quality was evident from a young age, as seen in his receipt of a state-level award for leading the evacuation of his elementary school bus following an accident. A passionate motorcycle enthusiast, Mike was a highly skilled mechanic and the proud owner of Free’s Cycles. He also applied his mechanical expertise for many years to maintaining the fleet of Lawson’s Plumbing vehicles, earning respect for his skills and dedication. In recent years, Mike dedicated much of his spare time to maintaining and improving the Free Family Homestead near Altha, Florida. He loved being there, spending time with his dogs, family and friends and tending to the property. He will now rest in peace in the place he cherished. Mike is survived by his loving wife, Helen Free; his son, Michael Free, and daughter-in-law, Rachel Free; his brother, Mitch Free, and sister-in-law, Mary Gray Free, along with their family. Mike’s life was a testament to benevolence, compassion and devotion, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Graveside service and a celebration of Mike’s life will be held at 11:00 AM (CST) Saturday, January 4, 2025 at the Free Family Cemetery with Reverend Ricky Russ officiating. Fellowship at “The Barn” at the Free Family Homestead will follow the services. All arrangements are under the direction of Marlon Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, Florida.  

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Frances Joyce Norton, 85, passed away quietly at her home in Wewahitchka, FL with her family by her side after a lengthy illness. Joyce, has her friends and family fondly called her was born in Blountstown, FL on November 19, 1939 to Thomas Marshall Aultman and Ruth Lorine (Rabon)Aultman from Wewahitchka, FL. Frances is preceded in death by her husband, William (Billy) Norton. She is survived by her children Charlotte (Harry), White of Corpus Christi, TX, Valerie Nelson of Wewahitchka, FL and Tommy Norton of Temple TX. Three grandchildren Karen (Nathan)Spencer from Corpus Christi, TX, Celinda (Justan)Orrell from Portland TX and Tyler (Brandi)Norton from Temple, TX. Six great-grandchildren Kaitlynn and Lauryn Walker both from Corpus Christi, TX, Dillon Spencer also From Corpus Christi, TX, Colby and Caleb Orrell both from Portland TX. Two great great grandchildren Lydian and Clare Norton both from Temple, TX. Joyce was a correctional officer at Gulf Coast Correctional Facility for 10 years when she retired at age 68. After retiring she took up quilting and joined a quilting group. She took great pride in her skills. Joyce was a perfectionist when it came to her quilts. They were all beautiful. Although she could have sold her gorgeous quilts she made them for her family. She was Baptized on March 17th, 2013 at the First Pentecostal Church of Wewa.  Marlon Peavy of Peavy Funeral Home, 20367 NW Evans Ave, Blountstown, FL will be getting her ready for her final destination where she will be buried next to her husband (Bill) at Nettle Ridge Cemetery in Blountstown, FL. In lieu of flowers you can donate to the American Lung Association. The family would like to Thank you if you give a contribution, if you could let us know by Sending a note to charlottew464@gmail.com.

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST

Mae Helen Carter Elliott Newsome McCowen, 79, passed away on December 16, 2024, at her home in Blountstown. Helen was born in Marianna, FL, on August 20, 1945, to Paris Wayne and Mary Elizabeth Carter. At a young age, she became a world traveler due to her father's service in the army. She experienced Japan, Germany, and bases all over the US. Helen returned to Blountstown while she was in the 8th grade. She graduated from Blountstown High School in 1963 and worked as a civil servant at Fort Rucker, a cosmetologist, and a medical transcriptionist at a local doctor's office. Helen enjoyed traveling, especially her trip to Spain in 1996. She also enjoyed reading, crosswords, and jigsaw puzzles. Helen is remembered as a woman who constantly thought of others, saw the good in each person, and exuded the fruits of the spirit. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister, Ouida Carter-Evans, the father of her children, Ralph Elliott, second husband Herman Newsome, husband, Bill McCowen, daughter-in-law Kim Elliott, and brother-in-law, Tommy Williams. Helen is survived by her children, Sherry Fortney (Ronnie), and Scott Elliott; stepson, Michael McCowen (Llano); grandchildren, Brooke Graves, Brandon Fortney, Tyler Elliott, and Ashley Elliott; step-grandson, Matthew Couch; 4 great-grandchildren; sister, Mary Ann Williams; brothers, Roger Carter (Lisa), James Larry Carter; a host of nieces and nephews, a large group of relatives and dear friends. Helen was a sweet soul whose love and kindness will be dearly missed by all. Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024, at the United Methodist Church of Blountstown. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM CT and service at 11:00 AM CT with Pastor David Goodman and Pastor John King officiating. Interment will follow at the Newsome Family Cemetery in Clarksville, FL. All arrangements are under the directions of Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, FL.  

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BLOUNTSTOWN'S OLDEST AND FINEST