Randy Bryant
Randy James Bryant, 51, of Lake Butler, went to be with the Lord on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024. Born Sept. 5, 1973, in Gainesville, he was known for his vibrant spirit and deep passion for the small joys that life had to offer. Despite living with disabilities, Randy approached each day with a sense of optimism that inspired those around him. He had a remarkable ability to find happiness in simple pastimes, such as watching his favorite shows, specifically anything featuring Ernest. His curiosity led him to a love for collecting odds and ends, and he delighted in the process of taking things apart, exploring how they worked inside. These hobbies brought him immense joy and provided a glimpse into his imaginative world.
He is survived by his devoted parents, James “Jimmy” and Deborah Johnson Bryant, who provided him with unwavering love and support throughout his life. He leaves behind his loving siblings, Gerald, Regina, and Timothy Bryant, who carry with them fond memories of a brother who brought laughter and warmth into their lives. Additionally, he will be remembered by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. He is reunited in eternal peace with his grandparents, Earl and Geraldine Johnson, and Wilma and Randolph Bryant, who embraced him as he crossed to the other side.
Visitation will be held Thursday, Dec. 12, from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. at Archer-Milton Funeral Home. This will be followed by a funeral service beginning at 2 p.m., where friends and family can gather to honor and celebrate the remarkable life Randy led. His final disposition will be by cremation under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Joe Gray III
Joe Gray III, 71, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, after an extended illness. Born in Macclenny on Feb. 23, 1953, to the late Joe Jr. and Edith Davis Gray, he touched the lives of many with his warm spirit and unwavering dedication. He spent his career working in heavy construction, where he not only honed his skills but also developed lifelong friendships. He was known for his incredible work ethic, always taking pride in the tasks he undertook. Outside of his professional life, he found joy in a variety of hobbies that reflected his love for the outdoors and passion for adventure. He spent countless weekends fishing in tournaments, where he sought the thrill of the catch. Additionally, he was an avid horseman, often trail riding, barrel racing, and roping. His dedication to equestrian activities led him to become a valued member of the MBHA District 2, where he found a community that mirrored his enthusiasm and spirit. In addition to his outdoor pursuits, he was a talented saddler, adept at both repairing and creating saddles. This skill demonstrated not only his craftsmanship but also his deep appreciation for the equine world. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe Jr. and Edith Davis Young; as well as his siblings, Monroe Gray and Martha Gray.
He leaves behind a loving family who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts. He is survived by the love of his life, Bambi Gray of Lake Butler; stepdaughter, Patty Altman of Lake Butler; daughter, Dana Barton of Macclenny; son, Dane Gray of Douglas, Georgia; and brother, Tim Gray of Sanderson.
The family invites friends and loved ones to celebrate his remarkable life during the visitation on Thursday, Dec. 12, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Archer-Milton Funeral Home in Lake Butler. A graveside service will take place at Cedar Creek Cemetery in Sanderson on Friday, Dec. 13, at 11 a.m., where he will be laid to rest.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve Joe’s family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Thomas Harding Jr.
Thomas “Tommy” A. Harding Jr., 83, passed away on Monday, Nov. 25, 2024, at Riverwood Health and Rehab in Starke. He was born Jan. 14, 1941, in Lake City, where he was a lifelong resident until moving to Raiford in 1983. He worked diligently for 16 years on the road crew for the city of Starke, until his well-deserved retirement. His commitment to his work showcased his unwavering dedication and love for the job. Outside of his profession, he had a deep love for hunting, a pursuit that provided him with much happiness and time spent in nature. When he wasn’t in the woods hunting, he was talking about it to anyone who would listen.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Nellie Jean Harding; his two children, Greg Harding and Lisa Harding; as well as numerous grandchildren and great- grandchildren. He also leaves behind a nephew, Dale Townsend; and niece, Cathy Richards of Lake City.
A visitation was held on Monday, Dec. 2, at Archer-Milton Funeral Home in Lake Butler followed by a funeral service where friends and family gathered to celebrate Tommy’s life and share their cherished memories. He was laid to rest immediately following the service at Conner Cemetery.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home was honored to serve the Harding family. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Leroy Jackson
Hinton “Roy” Leroy Jackson, 91, of Starke, passed away Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, at Shands UF. Roy was born Nov. 5, 1933, in Lee to the late William Hinton and Evelyn Louise (Bass) Jackson. He was a longtime resident of Bradford County. He was a member of Bayless Highway Baptist Church and the owner/operator of Roy’s Market for 64 years. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing and making both cane syrup and hog head cheese. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Ann Norman; and grandchildren, Megan Jackson and Luke Andrews.
Survivors are his wife of 68 years, Clifford Marie (Welch) Jackson of Starke; children, Karen Gaskins of Starke, Rodney Leroy (Bessie) Jackson of Starke, and Kyle Lewis (Karen) Jackson of Starke; and his sister, Joyce Evelyn Melton of Starke. Also left are his grandchildren, Kara (Drew) Wainwright, Ashleigh Jackson, Cammi Jackson, Lane Sanford and Hunter Jackson; along with great-grandchildren, Logan, Reese, Kate, Kayden, Sayla, and Kaise.
The family will receive friends at the DeWitt C. Jones Chapel of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home on Wednesday, Dec. 11, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Funeral services will be Thursday, Dec. 12, at 11 a.m. at Bayless Highway Baptist Church with Pastor Mike Conner Jr. and Rev. Alvin Greene officiating. Interment will follow at Crosby Lake Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Bayless Highway Baptist Church Building Fund, 11798 NW CR 225, Starke, 32091.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Joseph Jackson
Joseph Wendell Jackson of Alachua passed away gently at his home on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, at the age of 81. Born in Lee on Nov. 19, 1943, his journey took him through the sun-soaked orange groves of Leesburg and across highways as a truck driver, but it was his spirit and devotion to family that defined his legacy. His career began modestly after marrying his beloved wife, Wanda, in 1963. They moved to Leesburg for a brief period, where he toiled in the orange groves, earning a mere 53 cents an hour. However, his tenacity and determination soon caught the eye of an employer, earning him a promotion to operate a trimmer machine, which brought him a better wage at 93 cents an hour. By the time he was 21, he had embraced the adventurous life of a truck driver, starting out with Hercules in Starke, then with Shadd Trucking for many years and ending his driving career with Whitehead Brothers in Starke. After which, he took on the role of over-the-road truck driver, a vocation he cherished with Wanda until finally parking his semi in 2008, turning his concentration to his family. Beyond the steering wheel, he pursued a plethora of hobbies which gave his life joy. He reveled in the thrill of hog hunting and the tranquility of fishing. Saltwater fishing, in particular, stirred his heart. Despite never mastering the art of swimming, he found exhilaration in water skiing, daringly balancing on one foot. His love for the great outdoors extended to horseback riding and barrel racing, where he proudly served as the president of the Baker County Riding Club. Wendell’s green thumb shone brightly as he dedicated time to planting gardens that yielded fresh vegetables, which he lovingly canned. He raised cows and pigs, ensuring his family’s table was filled with nourishment from his own hands. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph B. “Tobe” and Bessie W. Jackson; love of his life, Wanda A. Jackson; son, Brian Jackson; and sister, Josephine Glover.
He leaves behind a warm and loving family who carry forth his legacy. His children, Joseph (Martha) Jackson of Lake Butler, Gwendolyn (Steve) Bailey of Inverness, and Wendy (Charlie) Eatmon of Santa Fe; grandchildren, Joshua (Ashley) Davis, Joey (Kacie) Jackson, Justin Waters, Jordan (Cheyanne) Cazee, Katelynn (Brianna) Bailey, Ryan (Lauren) Lee, and Summer Eatmon, will pass down stories of his adventures to future generations. His great-grandchildren, Allie, Jaye, C.J., Korbin, Madison, Tripp, Asher, Callie, Colten, Jessa, and India, will surely come to know the legacy of love he left behind. Wendell’s heartfelt connection to family does not stop there. He was cherished by his sister, Betty (Glynn) Morgan of Hawthorne; and had a caretaker, son, and friend in Robert Black Jr. of Santa Fe, who shared in the warmth of his life during his later years.
On Wednesday, Dec. 11, friends and family are invited to celebrate his life during visitation from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at Archer-Milton Funeral Home in Lake Butler. A graveside service will immediately follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest next to the love of his life, Wanda.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve the Jackson family during this difficult time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
William Manning
William Gerald Manning, 31, of Starke, died Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024. He attended Bradford County High School. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Survivors are his father; Ted E. Manning Jr.; mother, Connie Smith; brother, Antonio Manning; son, Grayson Manning; and extended family members
Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services Starke, 904-964-5757
Donald Osteen
Donald Osteen, a devoted husband, beloved family member, and cherished friend, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024, at Ascension St. Vincent’s Middleburg. Born Dec. 28, 1955, in Starke, he lived a life filled with purpose, joy, and the warmth of family and community. For 38 years, he dedicated his professional life to Miller Brewing Company, where he was admired not only for his strong work ethic but also for the camaraderie he shared with his colleagues. He had a passion for the outdoors, which was evident in his love for fishing and hunting. He started his fishing journey in fresh waters, but later found great joy in saltwater fishing, embracing every moment spent on the water. As a devoted fan of Florida State University, he took immense pride in supporting his team. His 1965 Chevy truck was another of his passions, as he enjoyed working on it in his spare time. He also relished the freedom of riding Harleys, creating unforgettable memories during these excursions. Always wanting to make others laugh, he loved demonstrating a spirited representation of Santa Claus, a role he embraced with delight each year, bringing laughter and joy to both his workplace and family gatherings. Above all, his greatest joy came from being with his family, a bond he held dear. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Beatrice Manning Osteen; and his brother, Jimmie Osteen.
He is survived by his loving wife, Terri Osteen, with whom he shared 43 wonderful years of marriage. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Cherri Dyer, Tillie Wright, and Judy Osteen; brother-in-law, Tommy Dyer; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will forever cherish his memory.
The family will receive friends during a visitation on Monday, Dec. 16, at Evergreen Baptist Church from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. followed by a funeral service at 2 p.m. He will be laid to rest immediately following the service at South Prong Cemetery.
Donald Osteen will be remembered as a man who brought joy and laughter to all who knew him. His spirit and legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve Mrs. Terri and the rest of the Osteen family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Joann Shadd
Joann Shadd, a beloved mother, grandmother, and sister passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024, at the age of 75. Born on July 3, 1949, in Starke, she was known for her vibrant spirit and her unique personality. She was truly one of a kind; her boldness and willingness to speak her mind made her a cherished presence to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She dedicated 22 years of her professional life working as a licensed practical nurse at Macclenny Nursing Home. Her compassion and dedication to her patients were evident in everything she did, leaving a lasting impact on both her colleagues and those she cared for. It was a career that suited her nurturing spirit and highlighted her desire to help those around her. Family was at the heart of Joann’s world. She cherished the moments spent with her children, Billy Horne, Amy (Jason) Hunter, and Kayla (Daniel) Cubbedge; and stepchildren, Donna (Jesse) Harvey, and Jennifer (Don) Andrews. Joann took great joy in guiding her granddaughters as they baked together, sharing her love for food, even though cooking was not her favorite pastime. Her grandchildren, Payton (Carleigh) Parker, Pierce Parker, Baylie Cubbedge, Danni Cubbedge, Chase Shadd, and Taylor Andrews, were her pride and joy, and she adored creating memories with them. She was also a loving sister, leaving behind her siblings, Linda Lewis, Faye (Jeff) Mullinax, and Donnie (D.K.) Bennett. She shared a bond with her family that was rooted in love, laughter, and very heartfelt moments. She also leaves behind her former husband, Bill Horne. In her leisure time, she found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was indulging in a good meal, always preferring to enjoy others’ cooking, or getting lost in the thrill of murder mystery movies. Her passions reflected her spirited nature and her zest for life, and these interests were woven into the very fabric of her family’s traditions and gatherings. She was preceded in death by her parents, Cecil and Alice Leach; her husband of 40 years, Allison Shadd; brother, Cecil Leach Jr.; and her sister, Marie Green.
A graveside service was held Friday, Nov. 29, at Kingsley Lake Cemetery in Starke. The service was officiated by Pastor Randall A. Griffis Sr. Joann’s warmth, laughter, and fierce love will never be forgotten, and she will always be remembered as the extraordinary woman who deeply touched the lives of those around her.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home was honored to once again serve Joann’s family. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Wayne Williams
Wayne Williams, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, was born on Oct. 20, 1955, in Jacksonville. He went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024, in Raiford, leaving a profound legacy defined by love, humility, and devotion. A proud graduate of Baker County High School’s Class of 1974, he was an integral part of the school’s football team, playing as a running back with a competitive spirit that would last throughout his life. He dedicated nearly 22 years of service to the Department of Corrections, where he rose to the rank of sergeant before his well-earned retirement. His commitment to his work reflected the integrity and discipline that characterized his every endeavor. He was a humble man, whose heart was as big as his competitive nature. He cherished his family deeply and devoted himself to studying the teachings of the Bible, which guided him through life’s challenges. He found joy in gathering his loved ones together for what they fondly called the “Williams Olympics,” a testament to his spirit of fun and camaraderie. Wayne joins in eternal rest with those who preceded him, including his beloved parents, Willie Williams and Ella Mae Williams; and his brothers, Billy, Bobby, David Grubbs, and Tommy King; along with his father-in-law, Bobby Anderson.
He is survived by his loving wife, Margret Ann Williams of Raiford; and his cherished children, Chana (Robert) Sharpe and Jamie Wayne Williams all of Raiford. Wayne was especially proud of his grandchildren, Haynes (Sara) Sharpe and Madison “Hot Dig” McKenzie, who brought immense joy and pride into his life. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Geraldine Anderson; his sister Janice Grubbs; his second daughter, Stasi McKenzie; along with brothers-in-law, Mitchel (Shirley) and Randy (Melanie) Anderson; sister-in-law, Diane Anderson Williams; and a dear friend he considered a brother, Neil (Betty) Griffis. The impact of his love and guidance will continue to resonate within the hearts of all who knew him.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation at Crossroads to Victory Church in Lawtey on Thursday, Dec. 12, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. A funeral service celebrating his remarkable life will be held Friday, Dec. 13, at 2 p.m. in the same location.
Wayne will be remembered not just for his roles as a husband, father, and friend, but for the incredible example he set for those around him. His legacy of love, faith, and family will continue to shine brightly in the lives he touched. He will be dearly missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those who loved him.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to once again serve the Williams family. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
