William “Danny” Parker
William “Danny” Parker, age 69, passed away on January 8, 2026 after a brief illness.
A graveside service will be Monday, January 12, 2026 at 12:00 P.M. at Piney Grove Cemetery in Steens, MS with Andy Tentoni officiating. Lowndes Funeral Home entrusted with all arrangements.
Mr. Parker was born May 5, 1956. He worked in the Motorpool Refueling Maintenance at Columbus Air Force Base for 33 years. Later, he retired from the Lowndes County Road Department. Mr. Parker was also a member of Piney Grove Methodist Church in Steens, MS.
Mr. Parker is preceded in death by his parents – William Edd Parker and Ruby Bernice Perkins Parker. He is survived by his wife of 47 years – Sherry Carroll Parker; daughter – Dana (Jay) Mordecai; and grandchildren – Brett Parker Mordecai and Barrett Jay Mordecai.
Pallbearers will be Brett Mordecai, Barrett Mordecai, Jay Mordecai, Hunter Warren, Curt Younger, James Hays, Jeff Hays, and Andy Tentoni.
The family requests no flowers. Instead, they request memorials be made to Piney Grove Operation Christmas Child Fund or the Piney Grove Cemetery Fund, at 1577 Steens Vernon Road, Steens, MS 39766.
Sarah Elizabeth Turnage
Sarah Elizabeth Turnage also known as Sally, born November 4, 1932 to Roy Aldridge and Margaret Smith Aldridge in Hazlehurst, Mississippi went home to heaven on January 6, 2026 at the age of 93. Sarah was a woman of deep and abiding faith who loved the Lord with all her heart. She was a loyal member of Fairview Baptist Church in Columbus Mississippi since January of 1973. Her life reflected that faith through kindness, generosity, and a joyful spirit that touched everyone she met. She had a special love for flowers, delighting in their beauty and cultivating a garden full of color. She was known for her warm laugh that could brighten any room and lift any heart.
Sarah shared a loving marriage of 71 years with her devoted husband, Billy Turnage, whom she loved very much. Together they built a life centered on love, family, and faith. Sarah was predeceased by her parents and her baby brother Roy Edward Aldridge. Sarah leaves behind a cherished family who will continue to honor her legacy: her loving husband, Billy Turnage; three children, Michael Turnage (spouse: Nancy Shaw Turnage), Bud Turnage (spouse: Cynde Rappe Turnage) and Beverly Turnage Holder (spouse: Keith Holder) and predeceased by twins: Infant Turnage and infant Roy Edward Turnage. She has seven grandchildren: Kelly, Scott, Hunter, Cooper, Caitlin, Summer, and Jason; and five great-grandchildren: Zander, Evan, Emma, Zoe, and Cosmo. She was a steady source of encouragement, wisdom, laughter, and unconditional love to her family.
Sarah Elizabeth Turnage will be remembered for her joyful spirit, her unwavering faith, and the love she so freely gave. Her life was a blessing, and her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. The celebration of Sarah’s life will take place Saturday January 17th at 11am at Fairview Baptist Church. The family appreciates that in lieu of flowers donations be made to her church family at Fairview Baptist Church in Columbus Mississippi.
Harold McCorkle (“Mack”) Eubanks
Harold McCorkle (“Mack”) Eubanks (1942-2026), a devoted husband and beloved father, passed away on January 11th, 2026 at the age of 83. Born in Pansey, AL, Mack was an avid University of Alabama football fan. Mack was a Chartered Life Underwriter selling insurance for over 50 years. He was a man of care and kindness, always making new friends and acquaintances anywhere he went. Mack never met a stranger. In addition to his passion for Bama football, he was an avid bass fisherman. He was a faithful member of Fairview Baptist Church in Columbus Mississippi where he and Carole raised their family. For many years, he took great pride in being a team leader for the ushers.
He is survived by his loving wife of over 60 years, Carole Eubanks; one daughter Jan Eubanks Barnes (Steve Barnes) of Acworth, Georgia and one son Shay Eubanks (Kim McBrayer) of Cumming, Georgia.
He is also survived by five grandchildren, Haley Eisenhart (Thomas Eisenhart), Sarah Waldrop (Matthew Waldrop), Will Barnes, Kaitlin Eubanks, and Jordyn Eubanks; great-grandchildren, Lucy Eisenhart, Tucker Eisenhart, Ellie Waldrop, and Banks Waldrop; his Sister-In-Law, Jane Eubanks of Ashford, AL; his brother Harry Eubanks and his wife Gale Odom Eubanks of Ashford; and multiple nephews and great nephews. In addition to his parents, Mack was preceded in death by two brothers, Dermont Eubanks (Ashford, AL) and Larry Eubanks and his wife Sarah Eubanks both of Dothan AL. Visitation will be held Wednesday, January 14, 2026 from 12:00 P.M. until 2:00 P.M. at Lowndes Funeral Home. Funeral service will be at 2:00 P.M. at Lowndes Funeral Home with Bro. Sammy Crawford officiating. Burial to follow at Friendship Cemetery, Columbus, MS. Lowndes Funeral Home entrusted with all arrangements. Pallbearers include Johnny Fancher, Chris Jenkins, Lance Godfrey, Craig Bateman, Brent Eubanks, and Steve Pyle.
Otis Jerrell Briggs
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Otis Jerrell Briggs, 86, of Columbus, MS passed away Thursday, January 15, 2026, at his residence.
Visitation will be Tuesday, January 20, 2026, from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. at Magnolia Funeral Home, East Chapel, in Corinth, MS. Service will be Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 3:00 P.M. at Magnolia Funeral Home, East Chapel, in Corinth, MS.
Mr. Briggs was born January 1, 1940, in Corinth, MS to the late George Clayton Briggs and Donnie Christine Jones Briggs. He worked in Maintenance and Repair for many years. Mr. Briggs is survived by his wife, Mary Frances Murphy Briggs of Columbus, MS.
Breman “Shea” Woolbright
Breman “Shea” Woolbright, 32, of Columbus, MS, passed away on January 22, 2026 in Columbus, MS.
The visitation will be Wednesday, January 28, 2026 from 11:00 A.M. until 12:00 P.M. at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. The funeral service will follow at 12:00 P.M. at the funeral home with Ron Delgado officiating. Lowndes Funeral Home is entrusted with all arrangements.
Shea was born on January 26, 1993. Shea brought a gentle spirit and a loving heart into the world – qualities he carried with him every day of his life.
Shea is preceded in death by his grandmother – Sharon Taylor. He is deeply cherished and will be forever remembered by his father – Sean Woolbright; mother – Kristi Woolbright; grandparents – Breman and Judy Woolbright and David and Patsy Moore; three siblings – Kaitlyn (Chase) Elmore, Caleb (Courtney) Woolbright, and Ethan Woolbright; girlfriend – Courtney Beasley, who meant so much to him; and nieces and nephews – Hunter Bailey, Sawyer Elmore, Brave Woolbright, and Nash Woolbright – each of whom adored their Uncle Shea.
Shea was known for his tender heart and kind soul. He was always quiet but could bring humor and crack a joke in the perfect situations. Watching Alabama football was one of his favorite pastimes. Guided by his love for God and his faith in Jesus, Shea lived with a gentle heart and a spirit of grace and always knew Jesus was watching over him. He found joy in life’s simple moments, especially when he was out on the water with a fishing pole in hand. Fishing wasn’t just a pastime for Shea – it was where he felt peace, connection, and true happiness.
Shea loved his family. Those who knew him will always remember his gentle presence and his warm smile. His loss leaves an ache in the hearts of many, but his love, compassion, and memory will remain with his family and friends forever. As Shea would say, “I love you…Roll Tide!”
Pallbearers will be Alan Romans, Reed McPherson, Nathan Sprouse, Blaze Reynolds, Rob Griffin, Brandon Reynolds, Tre Travis, and Codey Eads. Honorary Pallbearers will be Ken Schroeder, Bruce Purvis, Gerald Vest, and Tommy Watkins.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lowndes Funeral Home toward the cost of funeral arrangements.
Samuel “Simmy” Hampton
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Samuel “Simmy” Hampton, 68, of Caledonia, MS, passed away Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Baptist Memorial Hospital- GT in Columbus, MS.
No arrangements at this time. Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS entrusted with all arrangements.
Simmy is preceded in death by his parents, Charles Waldon Hampton and Gladys Pauline Newham Hampton. He is survived by his sisters- Brenda Spotts and Peggy Sloan of Caledonia, MS.
Eleanor Fondren
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Eleanor ”Ellie” Fondren, 84, of Columbus, MS passed away Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at Baptist Memorial Hospital- East Memphis.
Visitation will be Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral Service will be Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Interment will follow at Memorial Gardens in Columbus, MS. Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS will be directing.
Mrs. Fondren was born May 18, 1941, to Date Clouse and Bonnie Watts Clouse. She was a homemaker. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Fondren is preceded in death by her grandchild, Jonathan Fondren.
Mrs. Fondren is survived by husband- Sam Fondren; son-Sammy (Angela) Fondren, grandchild- Casey (Christine) Fondren, great grandchildren- Braxton, Sadie, and Evie Fondren, grandchild- Ana (Tanner) Dement; son- Tim (Barbara) Fondren, grandchildren- Chris (Treasure) Fondren, great grandchildren- Marleigh and Easton; grandchild- Chasity Fondren (Jim Logan), great grandchildren- Bryson and Bentley Nash; grandchild- Tabatha (Wade) Swindol, great grandchildren- Addie and Peyton. Son- Daniel (Tammy) Fondren, grandchild- Ashlee (Will) Jones, great grandchildren- Greyson, grandchild- Kaitlyn (Heston) Vaughn, great grandchild- Beverly, grandchildren- Kody (Tristen) Fondren, Dawson Cox, and Isabelle Fondren. Son- Jason (Amanda) Fondren, grandchild- Morgan (Alyssa) Franks, great grandchildren- Kinsleigh, Tucker, and Sawyer Franks, grandchild-Raichel (Austin) Pinkerton, great grandchild- Hayden Pinkerton, son- Ben Fondren, grandchild- Karlee, grandchild- Baylee (Chandler) Collums.
(with two great-grandchildren on the way)
Pallbearers will be Sammy Fondren, Tim Fondren, Daniel Fondren, Jason Fondren, Ben Fondren, and Casey Fondren. Honorary Pallbearers will be Christopher Fondren, Morgan Franks, Kody Fondren, and Dawson Cox.
Eleanor G. Comeau
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Eleanor G. Comeau, 77, of Homosassa, Florida, passed away January 22, 2026, at HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital in Brooksville, Florida. She was born in Isola, MS, on January 26, 1948, to the late William “Ed” and Grace (Naron) Peacock. Eleanor was a realtor and arrived in Florida in 2010, coming from Columbus, MS. She was a Baptist by faith and enjoyed fishing, farming, and taking care of her cattle.
Eleanor is survived by her loving husband of 40 years. Timothy Comeau. Other survivors include her children; Toni Lawrence of Homosassa, Cecelia (John) Nelson of Sanford, NC; Loria (Lynn) McCrimmon of Millport, AL, Mathew (Juliet) Cameau of Brownsville, Maine, and Amy (Thomas) Madoro of Vernon, AL; sisters, Betty Garrison and Nancy (Ronny) Shelton of Columbus, MS; 13 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
A Celebration of Eleanor’s Life will be held at Lowndes Funeral Home in Columbus, MS, at a later date.
Private Cremation arrangements under the care of Chas. E. Davis Funeral Home with Crematory, Inverness, FL.
Roy “R.D.” Fuqua
Roy “R.D.” Fuqua, age 102, of Columbus, MS, passed away Thursday, January 29, 2026 at Mississippi Veterans Home in Kosciusko, MS.
A Celebration of Life will be Monday, February 2, 2026 at 10:00 A.M. at the Mississippi Veterans Home in Kosciusko with Craig Puckett officiating. Lowndes Funeral Home entrusted with all arrangements.
Mr. Fuqua was born June 26, 1923 in Columbus, MS to the late Daniel Roy Fuqua and Ethel Massengill Fuqua. He was a former member of Calvary Baptist Church in Columbus. Mr. Fuqua was an avid golfer and loved the outdoors, especially spending time hunting and fishing. He was also a U.S. Army Veteran, serving during World War II in New Guinea and the Philippines.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Fuqua was preceded in death by his wife – Margie Fuqua; sons-in-law – Willie Menotti and Jud Harper; and numerous brothers and sisters.
He is survived by his sons – Danny Fuqua and Mike (Tonia) Fuqua; daughters – Sharon Menotti and Sandra Harper; grandchildren – Jennifer Brandt, David Fuqua, Dana Putt, Christine Lasher, Machele Fallaw, Todd Harper, and Kevin Fuqua; and numerous great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in honor of Roy Fuqua to Mississippi Veterans Home, 310, Autumn Ridge Drive, Kosciusko, MS 39090.
George Anthony Beard
George Anthony Beard, Sr., age 69, of Columbus, MS, passed away February 1, 2026 at his residence.
The Celebration of Life will be Thursday, February 5, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at Beersheba Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Lowndes Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.
Mr. Beard was born in Columbus, MS to the late Robert D. Beard and Sarah Elizabeth Higdon Brasfield. He loved spending time outdoors, especially fishing and camping. Mr. Beard also enjoyed watching NASCAR and football, and being with family and friends. He was a security guard for SDI and also Fire Chief of District 5 Fire Department. He had the biggest heart and was always willing to help if he could.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter – Melissa Burgoyne.
Mr. Beard is survived by his wife – Ann Beard; children – Tasha Elizabeth (Greg) Wright of Caledonia, George Anthony Beard, Jr. of Columbus, Mark Allen (Meagan) Foster of Columbus, and Wanda (Joe) Redmond of New Hope; grandchildren – Victoria Wright, Paige Wright, Thomas Phillips, John Phillips, Chloe Redmond, Ian Meyers, Bradley Redmond, and Ellie Foster; great grandchild – Fisher Wright; and siblings – Bobby (Rita) Beard of Columbus and Victor (Cindy) Purtha of La Porte, Indiana.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name may be made to the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation, PO Box 498, Emmitsburg, MD 21727.
Tracy Alan Wright
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Tracy Alan Wright, 64 of Columbus, MS passed away Sunday, February 1, 2026, at Baptist Memorial Hospital, Golden Triangle in Columbus, MS.
A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS entrusted with all arrangements.
Mr. Wright was born September 26, 1961, in Water Valley, MS to the late Gearrell Wright and Patricia McCulley Wright.
Mr. Wright is survived by his wife- Lisa Moore Wright; sisters- Denise (Tommy) Farrar. Debbie (Paul) McGehee; stepdaughters- Kalie (Todd) Poole and Kristen Lewis; stepsons- Eric (Lisa) Gibson, Ryan (Shanna) Gibson, and Trey Gibson; granddaughter- Aubrey Poole; and several step-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or Murrah’s.
John “J.T.” White
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John “J.T.” White, Jr., age 96, of Columbus, MS, passed away on February 1, 2026 at his residence.
The visitation will be from 1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M., Thursday, February 5, 2026 at Living Faith Tabernacle, Columbus, MS. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 P.M. at the church with Pastor Anthony Miller officiating. Lowndes Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.
Mr. White was born on September 1, 1930 in Houston, MS to the late John White, Sr. and Selie White. He loved working in the yard and gardening. Mr. White and his wife, Dean, enjoyed taking trips to the Great Smoky Mountains, where they had travelled at least 175 times. He was a member of Living Faith Tabernacle, where he loved to sing.
In addition to his parents, Mr. White is preceded in death by his wife of 75 years, Dean White; daughter – Brenda Campbell; daughter-in-law – Carolyn White; grandchild – Jonathan White; great grandchild – Caleb McCool; and numerous brothers and sisters.
Mr. White is survived by his children – Glenn White, Lawrence White, Charles (Gina) White, and Laura (Bobby) McCool; grandchildren – Justin White, Jaleb White; Haleigh (Will) Burks, Joey Burgess, Jennifer (Chris) Costas, Jessica (Bill) Cunningham, and Angela (Tim) Wilson; and numerous great grandchildren.
Pallbearers will be Jaleb White, Justin White, Kenneth Vail, Bobby McCool, Rusty Reynolds, and Tim Wilson.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in his honor may be made to Living Faith Tabernacle, 216 Shelton Road, Columbus, MS 39702.
Donald Ellis Johnson
Donald Ellis Johnson, 87 of Columbus, MS, passed away Monday, February 2, 2026, in Sylacauga, AL.
Visitation will be Sunday, February 15, 2026, from 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. A Graveside service will follow at 3:00 PM at Friendship Cemetery, Columbus, MS, with Bro. Sammy Crawford officiating. Lowndes Funeral Home entrusted with all arrangements.
Mr. Johnson was born on December 17, 1938, in West Point, MS, to the late Hayward Barton and Dolly Rae Freeman Johnson. He was a graduate of West Point High School. He married Ora Mae Hill on July 3, 1959, and together they had 3 sons: Gary Johnson, Keith Johnson, and Michael Johnson. Mr. Johnson was a long-time resident of Columbus, but recently resided in Sylacauga, AL. He was actively involved in local civic organizations and activities and was a member of Fairview Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon. He served in different capacities in the business of making personal loans, including the establishment and ownership of Loans, Inc., Columbus, MS. Prior to suffering a stroke in 2003, he maintained a health-focused lifestyle, including running marathons. Mr. Johnson enjoyed spending time supporting the band and sports endeavors of their three sons as well as fishing, water skiing, and taking family camping trips. He also enjoyed traveling the country supporting his wife, Ora, in her tour bus travel business. In addition to his parents, Mr. Johnson is preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Ora H. Johnson; sisters, Francis White and Virginia Johnson.
Mr. Johnson is survived by his children – Donald “Gary” (Donna) Johnson, Daphne, AL, William “Keith” (Lisa) Johnson, Germantown, TN and “Michael” Hill Johnson, Sylacauga, AL; sisters – Dorothy Johnson, West Point, MS and Hazel Pearson, Raleigh, NC; brother – Roger Johnson, Tupelo, MS; 4 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family would like to express their deep gratitude to Lakeview Place Alzheimer’s Facility, Mantachie, MS, Brown Nursing Home, Alexander City, AL, and Coosa Valley Nursing Home, Sylacauga, AL, for their compassion and care in providing their services over the past 3 years.
Memorials may be made to American Stroke Association, www.stroke.org or Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org.
Larry Dale Baswell
Larry Dale Baswell, 76 of Columbus, MS, passed away Sunday, February 8, 2026, at his home.
No services are scheduled currently. Lowndes Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.
Mr. Baswell was born on December 7, 1949, to the late Dewitt and Reta Price Baswell in Columbus, MS. He was a graduate of New Hope High School, Columbus, MS. Mr. Baswell was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and retired as a truck driver. He was a member and deacon of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Columbus, MS, and enjoyed bike riding, poetry, reading, and traveling. In addition to his parents, Mr. Baswell was preceded in death by his wife, Brenda Baswell, brothers – Kenneth Baswell and Gary Wayne Baswell, sisters – Penny Diane Baswell and Lisa Haas.
Mr. Baswell is survived by his children – Larry Dale Baswell, Jr., Jason Baswell, Heather Baswell, Christopher Baswell, and Matthew Baswell. Sisters – Katie Walker and Wanda McCrary, brothers – Clifton Baswell and Douglas Baswell. Grandchildren – Kaitlyn Spruill, Devin Spruill, Britney Pennington, Alyssa Steinport, Tyler Holman, Jayson Baswell, and Jared Holman; Justin Baswell, Jacob Baswell, Gracie Baswell, Grayson Baswell, Bernadette Baswell, Rebecca Baswell, Anthony Baswell, Great-grandchild – Jaycee Lee.
Memorials may be made to Heather Baswell, 94 Mac Davis Rd, Columbus, MS 39702.
Sue Wilburn Thompson
Sue Wilburn Thompson, age 81, of Columbus, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2026, in her daughter’s home.
Born April 7, 1944, in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, to Raford Wilburn and Ophelia (Akin) Wilburn, Sue lived a life marked by hard work, kindness, perseverance, and devotion to her family. Known for her warm smile, quick wit, and generous spirit, she touched countless lives.
Sue enjoyed a long and respected career as a server and then owner/operator of her own restaurants. In 1993, she opened Cappe’s Steakhouse in Starkville. In 2002, Sue embraced an opportunity offered by family friends and former employers, Doug and Hazel Hill, to return to Old Hickory Steak House in Columbus as owner and operator—the very restaurant her late husband had opened in the late 1960s. Sue poured her heart into continuing its legacy and serving generations of loyal customers. Known for her warm smile and dedication to excellent service, she spent more than 60 years serving “steaks cooked to perfection” to the Golden Triangle community.
Without question, Sue would say her greatest accomplishment in life was raising her daughter, Cappe, as a single mother and lovingly being “Mamma Sue” to her husband’s son, John. Sue is survived by her daughter, Cappe Thompson Hallberg (Eric), and her chosen son, John Wasson Thompson (Sherri). She was the loving and devoted grandmother of Cy Hallberg, Nicholas Hallberg, Harrison Hallberg, Wasson Thompson, Madison Thompson, and Mary Kate Thompson. Being with them was the greatest joy of her life. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Raford Wilburn and Ophelia (Akin) Wilburn; her husband, William Cyrus “Cy” Thompson, Jr.; her son, Tony Wilburn; her stepson, William Cyrus “Billy” Thompson III; and her siblings, who we know were so excited when she arrived in Glory!
Sue will be remembered for her strength, grace, and generosity. Her family cherishes her steadfast faith, selfless love, and constant support. They take comfort in knowing she is healed and reunited with loved ones who went before her.
There will be a private celebration of life held at a later date.
Charles Ray Hall
Charles Ray Hall, 70, of Steens, MS, passed away Friday, February 13, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.
Visitation will be Monday, February 16, 2026, from 12:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Funeral Service will be Monday, February 16, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS, with Sister Hazel Seichrist officiating. Burial will follow at Egger Cemetery in Caledonia, MS, with Lowndes Funeral Home directing.
Charles Ray was born April 10, 1955, in Columbus, MS, to the late Alma Humbers Hall and John Hall. He attended Caldwell High School. Charles Ray worked at Brownlee’s Auto when he was 15 years old. He later worked as a welder and fabricator for many years at Columbus Machine. Charles Ray loved coaching softball; he coached for 36 years. He loved fishing, hunting, Ole Miss football, and watching softball. He never met a stranger; everyone who knew him loved him.
Charles Ray is survived by his wife, Deborah Hall; daughters- Angela (Murl) Young of Hamilton, MS, Krissy Hall Baucum (Ben Ferrell) of Columbus, MS, and daughter by love- Krystal (Jason) Doty of Caledonia, MS; grandchildren- Toby (Abby) Young of Hamilton, MS, Emily Baucom (Dillon May) of Steens, MS, Hunter Baucom of Steens, MS, Sophie Young of Hamilton, MS; great grands- Colt Young, Collson Young, and Cayden Young of Hamilton, MS; brothers- Henry (Barbara) Hall of Steens, MS, Rena Larry (Ruthie) Hall of Steens, MS, David (Janice) Hall of Columbus, MS; and William (Jenny) Hall of Steens, MS. He also leaves behind his beloved dog Katie Bug.
Pallbearers will be- Hunter Baucom, Toby Young, Dillon May, Greg Hall, Joe Willie Elinburg, and Ricky Gentry. Honorary Pallbearers will be- Jerry Reynolds, Wayne (Bug) Dison, and Daniel Fondren.
Marc Lawrence Cates
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Marc Lawrence Cates, 73, of Caledonia, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026, in his own bed at home, with loved ones by his side.
Marc was born on June 8, 1952, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Herbert U. Cates and Mary Evelyn Cates.
Marc attended Holland Hall High School and graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1975 with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and a commission as Second Lieutenant. After graduation, Marc completed military training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and Airborne School before being stationed in Babenhausen, Germany, as a Field Artillery officer. He later served as Adjutant of the 1st Battalion, 17th Field Artillery at Fort Sill and was honorably discharged in 1981 at the rank of Captain. During his military service, Marc was awarded two Meritorious Service Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Humanitarian Service Award. Marc was incredibly proud of his time at West Point and referred to it as “the best education in the country”.
Following his military service, Marc entered the paper mill industry, where he dedicated 32 years of his professional life. His career took him to Washington, Louisiana, Texas, Georgia, and ultimately to Maysville, Kentucky where he spent 21 years.
Marc was deeply engaged in the Maysville community. He was a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Association of Graduates of the United States Military Academy. In Maysville, he served for a decade on the boards of the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center, including two years as Director, and the Tom Browning Boys & Girls Club, and was active in the Maysville Chamber of Commerce. He was also a proud Kentucky Colonel and perhaps the best town Santa in the state. His smiling face will live on in Christmas ornaments for many years to come.
Known as “Bapa” and “Papa” to his grandchildren—and to many beyond his family—being a father and grandfather was one of Marc’s greatest joys and most meaningful accomplishments. His children and grandchildren were the pride of his life. Whether they knew it or not, he closely followed their lives, adorned his walls with their milestones and experiences, and talked them up to anyone who would listen (or politely pretend to).
Marc is survived by his siblings Lynn Cates and Laurel Cates; by his children Catherine Jackson of Edmonds, Washington; Joseph Cates (Emily) of Portland, Oregon; and Samuel Cates (Sophie) of Los Gatos, California, whom he shared with his former wife, Joan Allen; and by Jacob Cates of Honolulu, Hawaii.
He is also survived by Gwendolyn Kielman (Tony) of Caledonia, Mississippi, a chosen daughter whose love and care meant the world to him in his later years.
He was preceded in death by his brother Matthew Cates.
He adored his five grandchildren with a fierce and joyful love: Arie, Elias, Olivia, James, and Peyton.
Marc was a leader who built community and elevated those around him wherever he went. His legacy lives on in the people he helped grow and the communities he strengthened. Donations in Marc’s memory may be made to Homes for our Troops (www.hfotusa.org).
Details regarding the scattering of his ashes will be announced at a future date. There will be no public service.
Sue Cobb Altman
Sue Cobb Altman, age 88, rollated into heaven on February 11th with her usual speed – the same speed she drove her 1972 Dodge Dart down Hwy 90 to Pearlington, drove her 2008 Buick down the back roads of the Magnolia Community in Perkinston and zoomed down the halls of Trinity and later, the Arrington…full throttle and hammer down. Although Sue was always in a hurry to get somewhere, she always took time to put on her lipstick and brush her hair, something she instilled in her daughters.
Sue Anne Cobb was born on August 7, 1937, in Natchez, Mississippi to Gladys Leila Scott and Silas Daniel Cobb, who died suddenly when Sue was only 7 years old. Gladys and Sue moved to Wiggins, Mississippi in 1946. Sue was popular with her peers, attending dances and participating in school plays and the glee club. She graduated from Wiggins High School as Salutatorian in 1955 and attained her Associates Degree in Secretarial Science at Perkinston Junior College, where she merited laurels as a collegiate debater and met her first husband, Roy Strickland. While he attended law school, Sue worked at Gathright-Reed Drugstore on the Square and later as secretary to the Dean of the School of Education at Ole Miss. Upon return to Wiggins, they started their family. Sue worked as the Church Secretary for the Wiggins United Methodist Church under Rev. William Dement and in the Stone County Agent’s office. After her marriage to Roy ended in 1970, in 1971, Sue married Harlan G. Dean, Sr. and moved to Pearlington, Mississippi. She worked for the Sea Coast Echo newspaper in ads, and later for Gex, Gex and Phillips law firm. She worked as the Secretary to the Superintendent of Education for Hancock County School District for 20 years and Executive Secretary to the President of the Gulf Coast Community College from 1994 until she retired in 2000. She married John A. Altman, Jr. in 1999, and they lived happily ever after until John’s death in April, 2016. With John, Sue toured Europe, which was the most exciting travel of her lifetime.
Sue was a timeless beauty with a flair for dressing and accessorizing. Not surprisingly, she was elected the Queen of the Forest for Stone County in 1955. She was active in the Methodist Church, attending both the Wiggins First United Methodist Church and later the Pearlington United Methodist Church and Wesley Methodist Church. She was a member of the Order of Eastern Star, Miriam Chapter # 67 and a Lifetime Member of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Alumni Association. Alongside her husband John, Sue actively participated in CrimeStoppers, economic development, fire safety coordination, and water utility board meetings in Stone County, Mississippi.
In 2020, Sue moved to the Golden Triangle to be closer to her youngest daughter, Michelle. Although Sue had a stroke in 2021, she recovered quickly and assumed her final role as ambassador to senior citizens and campaigned up and down the halls of Trinity Retirement
Community during Michelle’s 2022 judicial campaign. Sue loved bingo and dominos—in general, she loved winning—and absolutely doted on her teacup chihuahua, Theo. She always had a kind word and a smile for others.
A Celebration of Sue’s life and legacy will be held Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Wesley Methodist Church, 511 Airline Rd., Columbus, Mississippi, with visitation from 1:00 to 2:00. Rev. Justin Pender will officiate.
In addition to her parents, Sue was predeceased by her husband of 16 years, John A. Altman, Jr., and a son, Mark Bedford Strickland. She leaves as her most treasured legacy her daughters, Sylvia Blackwell and Michelle Easterling (Thomas), and a son, Scott Strickland (Lisa), grandchildren Brandon Strickland (Jessica), Bradley Strickland (Jordan), Brentley Strickland (Kasey), Geoffrey Strickland, Christian Strickland (Emily), Word Strickland, Seth Blackwell (Sidney), Blythe Blackwell, Grayson Easterling, and Jack Easterling, and 13 great-grandchildren. She also leaves many special friends, including Willie Houston, Carole Eubanks, Dolly Madestke, Dixie Dukemenier, Joan Thomas, Greg Keller, and Teresa Dearman.
Sue’s family is incredibly grateful for Dr. Navid Dara, Jeana Whitacre, Dr. Clifton Scott, Baptist Hospice and Nurse Anna Scott, and her caregivers, especially Betty Davidson, Katrina Kelley, Lula Randle, Cynthia Matthews, Latisha Chandler, India Barry and many people who made her last years special at Trinity Retirement Place and The Arrington.
D’Rhonda “Rhonda” L. Littles
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D’Rhonda “Rhonda” L. Littles, 50 of Columbus, MS, passed away Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-GT, Columbus, MS.
No services at this time. Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS, entrusted with all arrangements.
Rhonda was born July 13, 1975, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Columbus, MS to the late Edward Lee Littles and Sherron Foster Littles.
My mother, ”Rhonda,” was the strongest and most compassionate woman I will ever know. She could make you laugh just by walking the “Duck Walk” she had. She loved watching her crime shows while sitting in her recliner. She loved playing her games on her phone. She was more than a mother; she was my guardian angel, guiding me with her wisdom and support. Her love was our anchor in life, her presence always warmed our hearts.
Rhonda is survived by her daughter, Sunnie A. Leigh Beard, and son, Cory Alexander Beard of Columbus, MS; two grandchildren- Bentley Beard and Ryder Beard; and one brother, Eddie Dwayne Littles of Columbus, MS.