Anna Biddix

Anna Leah Biddix, affectionately known as Ann, was born on Aug 21, 1962, at NAS Jacksonville and passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026, at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville after a battle with cancer. Ann was the kind of person who made an impression right away. She was, as those who loved her knew well, a handful in the very best sense of the phrase: direct, to the point, and never one to leave anyone guessing where she stood. That honesty, paired with her unmistakable spirit, made her memorable and deeply loved. She graduated from Union County High School and went on to pursue a career in criminal justice, graduating from the University of Florida. She then devoted 25 years to the Department of Corrections as a correctional officer, serving with commitment and strength in a profession that asked much of her and clearly suited her no-nonsense nature. Outside of work, Ann knew how to enjoy life. She loved tailgating for Florida Gator games, camping, going to the beach, and reading. She also had a special fondness for casinos and playing Texas Hold’em, pursuits that seem perfectly matched to her bold and spirited personality. Whether she was relaxing with a book, soaking up the sun, or enjoying the thrill of a good hand, Ann brought her full self to the moment. Ann was preceded in death by her father, Harold Biddix; mother, Joyce Biddix; and brother, Hal Biddix.

She is survived by her wife, Valerie Seay, her partner of 25 years; her sister, Cynthia “Bebe” Hart; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Visitation was held Monday, Sept. 14, at Archer-Milton Funeral Home. A graveside service followed at Dekle Cemetery.

Ann will be remembered for her strength, her candor, her loyalty, and the lively spark she brought wherever she went. She leaves behind a life that was fully her own, steady in duty, rich in personality, and impossible to forget.

Archer-Milton Funeral Home was honored to serve Ann’s family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com

PAID OBITUARY

Marion Bishop Jr.

Marion Lanson “Lanny” Bishop Jr. entered peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026. Born in Gainesville, on Jan. 7, 1947, to Marion Lanson Bishop Sr. and Mildred Robinette Bishop, Lanny was raised in Newberry, where he attended school and graduated from Newberry High School in 1965. As a student, he played football and was deeply involved in the Future Farmers of America, serving as chapter president and earning the prestigious American FFA Degree. After high school, he attended Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC), earning an Associate of Science in Agricultural Mechanics. On Sept. 7, 1968, he married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Debra Lynn Chastain. They began their life together in Trenton, where Lanny taught agricultural mechanics at the Vocational-Technical School in Trenton. Less than a year into their marriage, as the Vietnam War intensified, Lanny answered his nation’s call. He enlisted in the US Air Force in 1969, completed basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, and became an aircraft mechanic. After being stationed at Little Rock Air Force Base in Arkansas, he deployed in 1970 with the 314th Organizational Maintenance Squadron, Tactical Air Command, Pacific Air Force, to CCK Air Base in Taiwan for 15 months. He served as crew chief on a C-130 Hercules, flying missions into Vietnam and Thailand, transporting troops, munitions, and supplies. He was released from active duty in 1972 and served two additional years in the Air Force Reserve at Eglin Air Base and Duke Field. After Vietnam, he and Lynn moved to Quincy, where he continued teaching agricultural mechanics at Gadsden County Vocational-Technical School while Lynn taught elementary school. During their years in Quincy, they welcomed their first two sons, Marion Lanson “Lanse” Bishop III on March 24, 1974, and Jonathan Chastain Bishop on Oct. 12, 1977. Between the births of Lanse and Jon, Lanny earned both a Bachelor and Master of Science in Agricultural Mechanics and Educational Leadership from Florida A&M University. He was ordained as a deacon at First Baptist Church, Quincy, and the friendships and memories formed during those years remained dear to him throughout his life. In June 1980, Lanny and Lynn moved to Lake Butler, settling into the home on Fifth Avenue where he would spend the rest of his life. He began working with Farm Bureau Insurance while Lynn started her long and distinguished career at Lake Butler Elementary School. On Aug. 3, 1981, they welcomed their third son, Mitchell David Bishop. Lanny continued his service to Christ as a deacon at First Baptist Church, Lake Butler, and later Sardis Baptist Church in Worthington Springs. After several years with Farm Bureau, he returned to the classroom, beginning a decades-long tenure as the agriculture teacher and FFA Advisor at Baker County Middle School. For more than twenty years, he taught agriculture, woodworking, mechanics, and leadership, shaping countless young people and teaching them how to grow things, build things, fix things, and lead with integrity. After 35 years of teaching, Lanny retired in 2009. He had fond memories of the annual Seasoned Owl reunions of retired FFA Advisors. His commitment to service extended far beyond the classroom. Shortly after moving to Lake Butler, he joined the Lake Butler Volunteer Fire Department, then he earned his Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification, and he became one of the first firefighters in Union County to complete state certification at Florida State Fire College. For nearly 30 years, he served his community faithfully as an EMT, firefighter, and the Division Fire Chief for Union County Fire-Rescue. Alongside his teaching and EMS service, Lanny farmed the land where he was raised between Newberry and Gainesville, in what is now Jonesville. He raised cattle and grew hay, watermelon, cantaloupe, and timber. On that same land, he taught his sons the value of hard work, stewardship, and the satisfaction of building, growing, and repairing with one’s own hands. For many years, he balanced a full-time teaching career, night shifts with fire rescue, and weekends on the farm, all to provide for his family. He loved farming and was committed to preserving the land, serving for many years on the Union County Soil and Water Conservation Board. His favorite pastime was woodworking, and he could build or repair nearly anything. Tables, bookshelves, storage chests, bunk beds, and countless other pieces crafted by his hands remain in the homes of family and friends, each one a quiet testament to his skill and generosity. He was a devoted father, always present, always teaching, always supporting. Whether volunteering at school events, building furniture or forts, serving as a medic on the sidelines of a football game, helping with props for a band performance, or offering spirited “feedback” to referees at a basketball game, he showed up for his boys in every season of their lives. And as a grandfather, he poured that same love, pride, and devotion into his grandchildren. He was a steadfast and loving husband to Lynn, his wife of 58 years. Their marriage was a testament to Biblical, covenantal love, weathering life’s highs and lows together, honoring their vows “for better or for worse,” and remaining devoted to one another until the end. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marion Lanson Bishop Sr., and Mildred Robinette Bishop; and his sister, Marilyn Bishop Shaw.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Lynn Chastain Bishop; his sons, Marion Lanson “Lanse” (Tara) Bishop III, Jonathan Chastain (Rachel) Bishop, and Mitchell David (Meghan) Bishop; and his cherished grandchildren: Kaiden Lanson Bishop, Jaxson Angelo Bishop, Morgan Dean Bishop, Isla Lynn Bishop, Landon Marion Bishop, and Declan Joseph Bishop.

A visitation was held at Sardis Baptist Church in Worthington Springs, on Wednesday, Sept. 23, with a service following. Pastor Paul O’Steen officiated.

 Arrangements were under the care of Archer-Milton Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Haven Hospice in Lake City.

Archer-Milton Funeral Home was honored to serve the Bishop family. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com

PAID OBITUARY

Carol Cline

We announce the passing of Carol Inez Cline born Nov. 17, 1964, in Gainesville to Fred and Hazel Pinner Long.

She is survived by her fiancé, Pate Gassett; children, Coley Long, Jason (Crystel) Byrd, Jonathan Byrd, Jeremy Gassett and Shanlee (Kevin) Collins; and extended family and friends.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, at Rick Gooding Funeral Home Cross City Chapel. Interment will follow at New Prospect Cemetery in Old Town. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Arrangements are under the care of Rick Gooding Funeral Home Cross City Chapel, 352-498-5400.

Charlie Dowling Ill

Charlie “Chuck” Dowling, a long-time resident of Keystone Heights, passed away Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026. He graduated from Keystone Heights High School in 1996 and attended the University of Florida. He was preceded in death by his mother, Irene Meserve Dowling; and his father, Charlie T. Downing II.

Charlie is leaving behind two older siblings, Billy and Ronald Easterling; sister, Dawn Dowling Rudolph; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends. Charlie loved to spend time with all his friends. Chriss and Irene Lawson were like family to him and have been his caretaker for the last year. Much appreciation for all they have done.

Anyone who knew Charlie knows he was definitely a Florida Gator fan. He loved his sports. He worked as a sports broadcaster in Orlando and Gainesville. He also wrote many articles for the Lake Region Monitor.

A Celebration of Life service will be held graveside at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, at Keystone Heights Cemetery. Loved and missed, we are forever grateful for him in our lives. In lieu of flowers, please just donate to Gainesville Hospice. Thank You.

PAID OBITUARY

Wilma Geiger

Wilma Estella Geiger died Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, at her residence in Hampton. She was preceded in death by her parents, Luther and Alma Jackson; stepmother, Bernice Jackson; husband, Anthony “Tony” Geiger; and two grandchildren.

Survivors are children, Timothy (Edith) Geiger and LaRae Huff; siblings, Melton (Gloria) McKinney, Marvin (Dietra) McKinney, Jean Tanner and Betty Lee (Dennis) Wallace; and extended family.

A Celebration of Life was held Wednesday, Sept. 23, at Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home.

Arrangements were by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke, 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com

Ada Reddish

Mrs. Ada Edwards Reddish, 92, of Starke passed away peacefully on Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026, at her home in Starke. Born Oct. 28, 1933, in Lawtey, she was the cherished daughter of Mamie Lou and William H. Edwards. Ada lived a life defined by faith, service, family, and devotion to those she loved. A lifelong member of First United Methodist Church, she faithfully served her congregation for many years as a pianist, sharing her musical gifts and enriching countless worship services. She found great joy in spending time at the family condominium in St. Augustine Beach and treasured traveling the country with her beloved husband, Drew, in their RV. Together, they created lasting memories while exploring destinations throughout the United States. She was also deeply committed to serving her community, volunteering with the Starke Hospital Auxiliary for more than 30 years. In her leisure time, she enjoyed knitting, needlepoint, and the companionship of the many cats she lovingly welcomed into her home over the years. Ada was preceded in death by her parents; and siblings, William H. “Bill” Edwards, James Edwards, Mary Edwards Mixon, Jean Edwards Rathel, and Lou Edwards Royster.

She leaves behind her devoted husband of 73 years, Drew F. Reddish, whom she married on Feb. 1, 1953. Their marriage was a beautiful testament to enduring love, commitment, and partnership. Cherishing her memory are her children, Stanley Reddish (Christy Lewis), Thomas Reddish (Lorna Leasure), and Douglas Reddish (Annette Chiappini); her grandchildren; Pamela (Tony) Bomba, Laura (Adam) Wainwright, Brett Reddish (Annie-Partner), Karlyn (Kaylee) Reddish, Janna Rae Reddish, Thomas Drew (Amber) Reddish; numerous great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family members and friends whose lives were blessed by her kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit.

A memorial service celebrating Ada’s life will be held at Foundation Church of Starke on Saturday, Sept. 26 at 11 a.m. A visitation will precede the service at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Foundation Church of Starke, 200 N. Walnut St., Starke 32091. For more information, please call 904-964-6864.

Ada will be remembered for her unwavering faith, generous heart, and deep love for her family. Her legacy of kindness and service will continue to inspire all who knew and loved her.

Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home.

PAID OBITUARY

Anna Sapp

Anna Fay Beckham Sapp, 91 passed away peacefully Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026. She was born Dec. 24, 1934, in Beckhamtown and spent her entire life in the Melrose area, where she made a home and built a lifetime of memories surrounded by family and friends. Anna married John Wilbur Sapp in 1956, and they had many happy years until he passed away in 2002. Anna had 2 sons, Eddie (Teri) Sapp of Melrose and Larry (Kerstin) Sapp, who passed away in 2022; three grandchildren, Jenah Sapp Clark, Tyler Sapp and Madison Sapp; as well as two great- grandchildren, Beckham and Barrett Clark. Anna will be lovingly remembered by her family and all who knew her. Her life was rooted in family, community and the place she called home for more than nine decades.

The family will celebrate Anna’s life at a simple service held at her home church, Orange Creek Church, Beckhamtown.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Orange Creek Church in Anna’s memory. Checks can be made payable to Orange Creek Church, P.O. Box 840 Hawthorne 32640.

PAID OBITUARY

James Skiber

James Francis Skiber, 74, of Melrose died Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, in Gainesville. He was preceded in death by his father and mother.

Survivors are siblings, Carol (Pat) Skiber and Edward (Angela) Skiber; and extended family.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, at Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home in Keystone Heights, Florida. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. Jim’s desire is to be buried at sea according to Navy protocol.

Arrangements are in care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com

Marlena Smith-Perkins

Marlena Janelle Smith-Perkins, born Aug. 3, 1982, died Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026. Marlena leaves behind cherished memories that will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

Arrangements are in the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com

JoAnne Ward

JoAnne Edna Ward, born on July 26, 1934, died Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026. JoAnne leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

Arrangements are in the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176.   www.jonesgallagherfh.com

Ilona Wuesthoff

Her arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, 14397 U.S. Hwy. 301 S., Starke 32091, 904-964-5757. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family’s guest book.

PAID OBITUARY

Randy Whytsell

Randy Blair Whytsell, 68, of Starke met his Heavenly Father on Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026, at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville, surrounded by his loving family. While our hearts are heavy with his passing, we celebrate a life that was richly lived, deeply loved, and filled with purpose, faith, family, friendship, and service to others.

Randy was born in Sutton, West Virginia, on April 15, 1958, to the late Carlis Blair Whytsell and

Philosea Genivee Coffman Whytsell. He grew up in Birch River, West Virginia, where he graduated from Nicholas County High School in 1976. His love of learning and his desire to help others led him to earn a bachelor’s degree in education from Glenville State College in 1980, followed by a master’s degree in educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University. From a young age, he understood the importance of investing in the lives of others. During the late 1970s, while involved in youth ministry, he met the love of his life and best friend, Cynthia “Cindy” Willey. They were happily married July 17, 1982, beginning a beautiful journey together that would span 44 years.  Randy and Cindy made Summersville, West Virginia, their home for many years, becoming deeply involved in their community and church while serving as youth leaders. His calling to guide, encourage, and teach others became the foundation of his life’s work. He began his career as a physical education teacher at Webster Springs Elementary, and he later served at Canvas Elementary. After moving to Florida to be closer to family, he and Cindy lovingly raised their son and daughter in Gainesville before settling in Bradford County in the late 1990s. Randy devoted many years to serving the students, families, and staff of Bradford County schools. He touched countless lives as an administrator, basketball coach for the Tornadoes, and ultimately

as the district’s Human Resources Director. His greatest impact cannot be measured by titles or accomplishments. He was a man who believed in people. He believed in encouraging young people, helping others discover their God-given gifts and making a difference wherever he could.  His faith was at the center of his life. Randy proudly shared his love for God through many forms of ministry, serving for many years as an Elder at Life Spring Church and playing guitar on the Praise Team. His faith was not simply something he spoke about; it was something he lived through the way he loved, served, encouraged, and cared for others. Outside of his work and ministry, Randy enjoyed the simple pleasures that made life special. He was an avid golfer, a passionate Gator fan, and someone who treasured spending time with his family and friends. He had a gift for making people feel welcome, valued, and loved.

Above all else, Randy was a devoted husband, dad, and “Grandy.” His family was his greatest joy.

He treasured every moment with Cindy, Matt, Heather, and his beloved grandchildren, Caden, Callen, Molly, Emmy, and Allie. Being a grandfather was one of the great joys of his life, and his grandchildren knew just how deeply they were loved.

Randy leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, love, service, laughter, and memories that will

continue to live on in everyone fortunate enough to have known him. Though we will miss his voice, his laughter, his stories, his encouragement, and his presence, we can take comfort in

knowing that Randy’s life made a difference.  His work here is finished. His legacy continues. His faith has become sight. And the love he gave so freely will remain in the hearts of all who knew him. Randy was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Louie Frame and James Whytsell; sisters-in-law, Augustine Frame and Violet Whytsell; and brothers-in-law, Jack Rose and Vaughn Davis. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Cindy Whytsell of Starke; children, Heather James) Eison and Matt (Natalie) Whytsell, both of Starke; sisters, Daphene Rose of Brooksville, Darlene Davis of Atlanta, Georgia, and Evelene (Dave) Wallace; grandchildren, Molly, Emmy, Allie, Caden, and Callen; along with extended family members and countless dear friends whose lives were made better because Randy was part of them.

A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, Sept. 24, at 4 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Starke, with Pastor Matt Weaver officiating. Family will receive friends for visitation from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the church. In honor of Randy’s memory and his love for the Florida Gators, family and friends are invited to wear Gator attire or orange and blue. A private family interment and committal service will be held at Crosby Lake Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bradford County Education Foundation, 501 W. Washington St., Starke 32091, 904-966-6800.

Randy’s arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke, 904-964-5757. Please visit www.ferreirafuenralservices.com to share condolences and support the family during this difficult time.

PAID OBITUARY

David Wroblewski

David James Wroblewski was born on April 19, 1985, in Pompano Beach and died Sunday, Aug. 31, 2026, in Starke.

Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-4733176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com