Obituaries — April 1, 2025

Patricia Crawford

 

Patricia Crawford

Patricia Diane Crawford, 65, of Hampton, died Monday, March 24, 2025, at North Florida Regional Hospital in Gainesville.  She was preceded in death by her mother, Marilyn Geer Estes; and, sister, Kathy Estes Crawford.

Survivors are children, John Crawford Jr., Terry Crawford and Deena Crawford; father, Oscar Estes Sr.; companion, William “Skeeter” Cunningham; one brother; and 10 grandchildren.

A graveside Celebration of Life was held Friday, March 28, at Santa Fe Cemetery in Hampton with Pastor John Hodges officiating.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services, Starke, 904-964-5757.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ruby Crawford

Ruby Crawford

Ruby Jewel Carter Crawford, age 92 years 10 months and 13 days, of Starke passed away Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Riverwood Health and Rehabilitation Center in Starke. She was born in Berlin, Georgia, May 13, 1932, to the late William Joe Carter and Cora Cassie McLemore Carter.  She was raised in Georgia and Lawtey.  She graduated from Bradford High School and, shortly after, married her best friend and forever companion, Stanley Crawford, on Dec. 25, 1950.  She was a devoted wife, loving mother, and nanny.  She dedicated her life to taking care of her family and, especially, enjoyed time with her children and grandchildren. She was extremely successful in her careers.  She served for years at the Cigar Factory and Geico Insurance Company in Jacksonville, General Electric Battery in Hague, Winn-Dixie, Doyle Dry Cleaners, and   Handy Way Convenience Stores in Starke and was a private seamstress, helping many with their sewing needs.  She was generous with her talents and loved teaching others how to sew and can vegetables.  She loved traveling to the Smoky Mountains with family and friends.  She also loved attending Madison Street Baptist Church, where she was a longtime member. More than anything, she loved her family and cherished making memories with them.  She was preceded in death by her parents; loving husband of 42.5 years, Stanley Crawford; son, Stanley L. Crawford; and brother, Henry Carter.

She is survived by her daughter, Irita Kirkland of Lake Butler; brother, Horace (Joy) Carter of Albany, Georgia; grandchildren, John Michael (Jennifer) Kirkland, Lezlie Ann Kirkland, Lindsey Nicole Hughes, Donald (Sara) Crawford, and Daniel Crawford; three great-grandchildren, Lorelai Kirkland, Sela Hughes, and Carson Crawford; favorite  nephew, Harold “Nook” (with loving wife, Shyrel) Crawford; along with several extended family members and friends who were treated like family.

A Celebration of Life was held Monday, March 31, at Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel with Brother Charles Warren officiating. Interment followed at Crosby Lake Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke, 904-964-5757. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family guest book.

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

 

James T. Lee

James T. Lee

James Trueman Lee, 78, of Starke passed away Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at Malcom Randall VA Hospital in Gainesville after an extended illness. He was born July 26, 1946, in Starke to Richard Lon (R.L.) and Ruth Fee Lee. Spending most of his life in Starke, he grew up surrounded by family and lifelong friends. He left Starke in 1965 to join the US Marine Corps (ooh rah), where he served his country proudly and valiantly during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1974 and continued his military career in the Army National Guard until his retirement in 1996. In addition to his military career, he also retired from Union Correctional Institution in 2001. He was preceded in death by his parents; youngest brother, Richard Anthony (Tony) Lee; half-sister, Barbara Jean Amason Parrish; and his fifth wife, Ann Podejko Lee, whom he truly adored.

He is survived by his first wife and mother of his children, Linda Sanders Lee, of Melrose; brother, Carlton Leroy (Corky) Lee of Starke; and two children, Lana Marcia (Marcy) Lee and James Christopher (Chris) Lee, both of Melrose. His proudest accomplishment was his granddaughter, Jessica Kaitlyn Doty of Melrose. He also held a special place in his heart for Jacoby Hankerson of Starke, whom he considered his adopted grandson. James lovingly referred to both grandchildren as “knotheads.” He leaves behind a host of nieces; nephews; brothers and sisters-in-law; and cousins; as well as Ann’s daughter, Danielle Sutton Sanchez.

He will be cremated under the direction of Jones Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke and his ashes will be interred at Jacksonville National Cemetery with full military honors. There will be no formal service, but an informal gathering will take place at a later date at the cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Operation Catnip in Gainesville in honor of our father and the only two cats he ever liked, Bosco and One-Eyed Jack. Heartfelt thanks to the staff, doctors, nurses, and caregivers of the VA Hospital and Mederi Caretenders for their dedicated care of our father. Funeral services will be held Friday, April 11, at Jacksonville National Cemetery at 10 a.m.

Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke, 32091. 904-964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com

PAID OBITUARY

 

Lisa McPherson

Ms. Lisa Rae McPherson, 66, of Melrose died at her home Wednesday, March 26, 2025.

Survivors are children, Kyle (Terry) Taylor, Rebecca (Justin) Wallace, Max Hillhouse, and Emmett Griggs; sister, Avis Goode; brother, Charles Jeffery McPherson; six grandchildren; and extended family members.

A graveside service was held Monday, March 31, 2025. Interment was at Eliam Cemetery. 

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

 

William Randolph

William “Ed” Randolph passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones Thursday, March 27,2025. He was born May 13, 1951, in Pulaski, Tennessee, but lived in Starke most of his life.

 

 

Roscoe Seay

Roscoe Seay

Roscoe Seay, a cherished resident of Worthington Springs, passed away peacefully at home Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at the age of 95. Born March 17, 1930, in Worthington Springs, he dedicated his relationship to the Lord, his family, his work, and his passions. At the young age of 16, he embarked on his career in logging, an endeavor that would shape his professional life. He went on to own and operate Roscoe Seay Timber until his well-deserved retirement. His commitment to hard work was matched only by his generous spirit and willingness to help others. He was known for having a big heart, always ready to lend a hand to those in need. In addition to his career, he had a deep passion for horses and participated actively in barrel racing. He was a proud member of the Union County Riding Club and the National Barrel Horse Association. He was also a member of Sardis Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dorthy Louise Seay; son, Ralph Seay; and his siblings: Clyde Seay, Doc Seay, Fate Seay, EllaMae Gainey, Eva Green, Mary Elixson, and Lila Barber. Their memories will undoubtedly be honored and cherished by those who remember the bond shared.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Paula Seay; children, Joan Feuston of Newberry, Clarence (Priscilla) Seay, and Harley Seay, both of Worthington Springs; and sisters, Nita (Travis) Hemphill, Oveida (W.C.) Blue, and Donnie Guynn; along with many grand, great-grand, and great-great-grandchildren. He will be profoundly missed by his loving family and friends.

A visitation was held at his church, Sardis Baptist, on Saturday, March 29, followed by a funeral service at the same location. His services were officiated by Brother Paul Osteen, pastor.

Arrangements were under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. 386-496-2008.  www.ArcherFuneralHome.com

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

 

Chana Sharpe

Chana Sharpe

Chana Sharpe, a beacon of light in the lives of so many, was born Jan. 8, 1977, to Wayne and Margaret Williams, in Gainesville. She departed this world Friday, March 28, 2025, at Baptist Downtown in Jacksonville after a hard-fought battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication. A resident of Raiford her entire life, she made an impact on that community and many more. She devoted her life to the education of others, shaping the minds and hearts of students across multiple counties, including Bradford, Baker, Columbia, and Union. Earning two Master’s degrees in Education and Educational Technology from the University of Phoenix, she was a consummate professional. Yet it was not just her credentials that made her remarkable; it was her heart. Chana never met a stranger and had a unique ability to connect with those around her, leaving a lasting impression that transcended the classroom. She worked tirelessly, often sacrificing her own needs to be the support system for her family. Her kind spirit echoed through the hallways of the Christian Fellowship Temple in Macclenny, where she was a dedicated member and found deep joy in her faith. She cherished singing gospel music, often filling the church with her spirited voice. She was also an exceptional cook, known for whipping up dishes that brought together family and friends in celebration and warmth. Her headstrong personality and fun-loving spirit made her the glue that held her loved ones together. She was patient and selfless, always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. Her love of sports and unwavering dedication to her community showcased her vibrant lifestyle, as she attended games with enthusiasm and cheered for her teams with infectious energy. She was preceded in death by father, Rev. Wayne Williams; mother-in-law, Margie Kirkpatrick; and her uncle, Rev. Billy Williams, but she now joins them in eternal peace.

She leaves behind her beloved husband of 13 years, Robert Sharpe, of Raiford; her cherished son, Haynes (Sara) Sharpe, of Nashville, Georgia. She is survived by her loving mother, Margaret Williams; grandmother, Geraldine Anderson; brother, Jamie Wayne Williams; sister, Stasi Mckenzie; goddaughter, Madison Mckenzie; and her godmother, Dianne Williams. They will carry forth her memory with every shared story and fond recollection.

Family and friends are invited to gather in her honor for a visitation on Tuesday, April 1, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Christian Fellowship Temple, 251 W. Ohio Ave., Macclenny 32063. A  funeral service will be held Wednesday, April 2, at 11 a.m. at Christian Fellowship Temple.

Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to once again serve the Williams and Sharpe families. 386-496-2008  www.archerfuneralhome.com

PAID OBITUARY