Joe Barrow Jr.
Joe Barrow Jr., 90, of Keystone Heights died Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Haven Hospice in Palatka. He served in the United States military. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife of 56 years, Oleta (Bacon) Barrow.
He is survived by his wife, Colleen (Ebling) Barrow; daughters, Cindi Adams and Valerie Cole; several grandchildren; as well as Colleen’s family.
At his request, there will be no services.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke 32091. 904-964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
Pamela Crawford
Pamela Jenene Crawford, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Starke on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, after a brief illness. Born on Sept. 20, 1960, in Starke, she lived her life with a deep appreciation for nature and a profound love for the Lord. She enjoyed nature watching, where she found joy in observing squirrels and birds in their natural habitats. Reflecting on the tranquility and simplicity of God’s creatures seemed to draw her closer to the Lord. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles Eugene Crawford Sr. and Betty Joyce Harris Crawford; as well as her siblings, Wayne Crawford and Debbie Crawford; and sister-in-law, Becky Crawford. She was also preceded in death by her cherished pet, Mia, who brought her much comfort and companionship.
She leaves behind her loving children, Christopher (Christy) McFarland, Jennifer McFarland, and Britney Napier; grandchildren, Hannah McFarland, Madison Highland, Brooke Napier, Allie McFarland, Taylor Napier, Marisa Highland, and Kylie Plemons; as well as her great-granddaughter, Nova Napier-Crawford. Pam also shared a special bond with her brothers, Stephen (Tina) Crawford and Charles Eugene “Gene” Crawford Jr.; and is remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews and extended family members.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, May 17, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at 2651 NW 210th St., Lawtey, 32058. Friends and family are invited to gather to share memories and honor the remarkable life of Pamela Jenene Crawford.
Her final memorization will be by cremation under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Edith Kent
Edith Anne “Mema” Kent, 67, of Starke died Monday, May 5, 2025, following an extended illness. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Leo, Hank and Susan Kent; and two granddaughters.
Survivors are her children, Kimberley Clemons, Steven (Marie) Tusa, and D.J. (Judy) Tusa; two grandchildren; extended family members; and friends.
As she wished, the family will hold a small, private memorial to celebrate her life.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke, 904-964-5757.
Betty Krajnovich
Betty Alberta Krajnovich, 63, of Brooker, passed away at her residence on Friday, May 2, 2025. She was born on June 11, 1961, in Clinton, Iowa with her twin brother, Barry Krajnovich, to the late Robert Krajnovich and Harveyetta Nelson Krajnovich. Betty and her seven siblings were raised in Iowa. She graduated from Camanche High School in 1979 and shortly after, in 1986, relocated to Stuart. She had a long. successful career in customer service and was currently employed with the Alachua County Health Department in Gainesville. She made Bradford County her forever home in 2019 to be closer to her twin brother, Barry. She had a lifelong passion for arts and crafts. She loved being creative and her enthusiasm for DIY projects was infectious. She saw beauty in every day and inspired others to do the same. She was greatly loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Michael E. Krajnovich, Peter L. Krajnovich, and Samuel J. Krajnovich; and sister, Roberta A. Krajnovich.
She is survived by her brothers, Barry Krajnovich of Brooker, and Robert J. Krajnovich of Clinton, Iowa; sister, Diana L. (James) Mussman of Clinton, Iowa; along with several extended family and friends.
He family will celebrate her beautiful life on Saturday, May 17, at 1 p.m. at Christian Missionary Baptist Church, 4976 SW 107th Ave. Lake Butler, 32054.
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’s guest book.
PAID OBITUARY
Lila Mader
We are heartbroken to share the passing of our beloved Mother and LaLa, Lila Diane Spires Mader, on Saturday, May 10, 2025. A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor on Saturday, May 17 at 10 a.m. at Central Christian Church, Ocala. Lila Diane Spires Mader, 73, of Ocala, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, May 10, 2025, surrounded by her family, whom she loved so well. Born on Sept. 8, 1952, in Lake Butler, Lila was a devoted wife, mother, LaLa, sister, teacher, and friend. Lila married Bob Mader, June 7, 1984, and together they raised two boys, Joey and Josh, in a home filled with love, laughter, music, and scripture. Lila was a lifelong, faithful follower of Christ, and a cornerstone of her church community. Over the years, she joyfully played piano and worshiped along with her church family. Her ministry as a Kingdom worker was to faithfully and lovingly serve adults and children with special needs. She lived her life as a true servant of Christ and was a living testimony to Proverbs 31:28, “Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.”
She is survived by her loving husband of 40 years, Bob; her children, Joey (Tamara) and Joshua (Meghan); and her five grandsons, Toby, Caleb, Elliott, Gavin, and Luke. She was preceded in death by her parents, F.L. Spires Sr. and Willie Mae Spires; her brother, Tommy Spires; sister-in-law, Nancy Spires; and brother, F.L. Spires Jr. The greatest comfort to our broken hearts is knowing Lila is with our loving God, our Lord and Savior, the only one who could love her even more than us. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family suggests you set aside special time with your spouse and/or other loved ones to continue to build your love and create lasting memories.
PAID OBITUARY
L.E. Padgett
Mr. L.E. Chester Padgett, 88, a lifelong resident of Bradford County, passed away suddenly Friday, May 9, 2025, at Shands Hospital. He was born Aug. 27, 1936, to Harry and Lillie (Tanner) Padgett. He retired from the Bradford County Road Department as a heavy equipment operator in 1998. He attended Smyrna Baptist Church and enjoyed tinkering around the house and working on old cars and mowers that he could resale. But, most of all, he loved riding his grandchildren around on his side-by-side. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Gregory “Greg” Padgett; brother, Homer Pagett; and sister, Mildred Batton.
He leaves behind his loving and devoted wife of nearly 64 years, Velma Padgett; their son, Bryan (Connie) Padgett; as well as a daughter-in-law, Marcilla (Carter) Padgett, all of Starke. He was lovingly called “Papa” and “Papa2” by grandchildren, Alyssa (Trey) Shannahan and Ashlyn (Connard) Rodgers; and great- grandchildren, Mason and Asher and soon to be two more. Also left behind is his niece and nephew, Linda and Joey Baldree.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 15, at Smyrna Baptist Church with Brother Charles Starling officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 12 p.m. Interment will follow at Long Branch Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke 32091. 904-964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Danielle Perone
In loving memory of Danielle Elise Perone, born on Jan. 7, 1991, in Gainesville, her vibrant spirit was ushered into heaven on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, in Starke. Her life was a testament to humor and kindness; she was a bright light who had an uncanny ability to lift the spirits of those around her with her infectious laughter and playful nature. Ever the hard worker, she dedicated herself to her role at Taco Bell, where she was on the cusp of achieving greater heights within the company, but her ambitions were but a small part of her rich life. She embraced faith and community, generously offering her time to Bayless Highway Baptist Church, where she assisted with various events, including VBS, fall festivals, and community meals. With her Sisters in Christ group on Monday nights, she found sisterhood and inspiration, cherishing the bonds formed therein. An avid fan of the Florida Gators, she took pride in rooting passionately for her team in all types of weather. A devoted wife to her husband, Robert Perone; and a loving mother to her daughter, Dakota Thornton, Danielle’s heart was woven deeply with family ties. She was a cherished daughter to her mother, Candace Dent; and shared a bond with her brothers, Robbie (Jessica) Godwin, Joshua (Adrianna) Godwin, and Jacob Dent; and her sister, Misty Dent, held a special place in her heart. The warmth of her grandmother, Violet Doolittle, provided yet another layer of connection and love that grounded her. She cherished her role as “Nae Nae” to her numerous nieces and nephews, each of whom holds a special memory of their aunt’s caring antics, blending laughter and compassion in all she did. She has numerous aunts, uncles, extended family and friends who held a special place in her heart. The fur babies she adored,Kessler Edward, Lucy Alana, Shiloh, and Cocoa “Darlin,” were an ever-present light in her life. She was preceded in death by her father, Donny Dent; and grandparents, Mildred Adkinson, Luis Dent, and Callis Finley.
A gathering to honor her memory will be held during a visitation on Tuesday, May 13, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Bayless Highway Baptist Church in Starke. She will be laid to rest immediately following the funeral service next to her father at Sapp Cemetery in Raiford. Brother Mike Conner will officiate the services.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve Danielle’s family during this difficult time. ln lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the funeral home to help with the unexpected expenses. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Ruby Sutton
Ruby Joyce (Broughton) Sutton, a devoted, loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and “Gema,” passed away Monday, May 12, 2025, at home in Starke, surrounded by her loving family at the age of 77. Born May 6,1948 she was proceeded in death by her loving husband, John; and her parents, Willis and Corene (Kitchens) Broughton. She was a lifelong member of Smyrna Baptist Church in Starke, where over the years she volunteered as treasurer, secretary and Sunday school teacher. She was also involved with Girl Scouts as an assistant leader, leader and cookie chairperson. She worked for many years in Starke at Vogue Manufacturing, Suwannee Swifty, Eckerd Drugs, retiring from CVS in 2015. From the mountains to the beach, she loved to travel. A special shell or rock from many trips added to her collection. She enjoyed nature and her collection of azaleas, hydrangeas and gardenias. Her true joy came from spending time with and spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She is survived by her children, Wayne Sutton of Gainesville and Marian (Tad) Crews of Starke; grandsons, Christopher (Jennier) Crews of Dothan, Alabama and Brandon (Holly) Crews of Rocky Face, Georgia; five great-grandchildren, Maddison, C.J., Levi, Lucy and Morgan; siblings, Lorene Sumner, Buddy (Debbie) Broughton and Lou (Jimmy) Simpson; and many uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, May 17, at 11 a.m. at Smyrna Baptist Church in Starke with Pastor Paul Cannon, Christopher Crews and Brandon Crews officiating. The family will receive friends an hour prior at the church. Interment to follow at Santa Fe Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke, 904-964-5757.
PAID OBITUARY
Debra Taylor
Debra “Debbie” Diane Taylor, a devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and a pillar of kindness and selflessness, finally met her Savior face to face Monday, May 5, 2025, at North Florida Regional Medical Center in Gainesville. Born March 9, 1960, in Lake City, she spent her life setting a godly example to all who knew her, embodying the principle of placing Christ first, then family. Her journey through life was marked by her unwavering dedication to her role as a mother of three boys, Leo (Cassaundra) Taylor of Lake Butler, Phillip Taylor of Branford, and Stephen (Devyn) Taylor of High Springs. Each of her sons carried the values she instilled in them: love, integrity, and humility. As they grew into adults, she continued to be a source of strength and nurturing, a guiding light in their lives. Her legacy extends beyond her immediate family; she was blessed with many grandchildren who adored her. Hailey, Grace, Kerri, Addyson, Emily, Mason, Taylor, L.J., P.J., Finlee, Harper, Jack-Jack, Aspen, and Charley Mae have all experienced the warmth of her love. She also welcomed the joy of great-grandchildren, Jaiden, Alaia, K.K., and Kai, who brought her immeasurable happiness. In addition to her family, she is survived by her beloved siblings, Robin Peeples of Starke and Robert Hampton of Lake City. The impact she had on her family and friends is a testament to her kind and even-keel personality, which shone brightly against the backdrop of life’s storms. She faced every challenge with grace, never complaining, which inspired all around her. Her devotion to Christ served as a reminder to others of the beauty of God’s goodness and grace.
As we remember Debbie, there will be a Celebration of Life held on Saturday, May 17, starting at 10 a.m. at her church, Bible Baptist Church, 150 S. Cherry St., Starke. This gathering will honor her spirit and reflect on the countless lives she touched through her kindness and unwavering faith. “God is with me on Earth and I’ll be with him in Heaven.”
PAID OBITUARY
LeLonnie Tuller
With great sadness, enduring love and profound gratitude, the family of Mrs. LeLonnie Carlson Tuller, 83, of Keystone Heights announce that she passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in Gainesville. She was born March 15, 1942, in Hartford, Connecticut, to the late Lawrence and Amelia Ruth (Emerick) Carlson. After graduating East Hartford High School (CT), she earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Central Connecticut State College, where she met her husband, Richard, and then her master’s from the University of Florida in education. Prior to marriage, she spent two years in the Peace Corps in the Philippines, for which she spent 10 weeks in California learning Tagalog to communicate with and teach English to Filipino adults. She knew she wanted to be a teacher from the age of 8, and it showed. Prior to retirement, she was employed with the Clay County School Board, where she taught elementary and high school students for 36 years. She was a longtime, active member of Community Church of Keystone Heights, where she was involved in a prayer chain: always praying for others. She loved hosting family get-togethers, spending every moment with them, and gardening, nature and beach walks, and watching birds, especially her favorite, cardinals. She truly enjoyed boating, camping, trips to north Georgia mountains and other adventures with her beloved husband and family. She loved dancing, especially with her husband. She danced ballet in high school and was a cheerleader (captain) in high school and college. She also loved to sing, performing with her mother in the International Sweet Adelines, and also lovingly sang The Carpenters tune “Sing a Song” to her young daughters, then grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Left behind to cherish her memory are her loving husband of 57 years, Dr. Richard Tuller; their daughters, Beth (Greg) Miller, Kim (Todd) Sigmon; her brother, Ronald Carlson of Boston, Massachusetts; and sister Joy Carlson (Bob) Waters of Micanopy. She was lovingly called “Grammie” by her adored grandchildren, Anna (Josh) Brown, Oliver Miller, Madilyn Miller, Natalie Sigmon; and great- grandchildren, Addison Brown, Jensen Brown, and Jackson Brown.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, May 16, at Community Church of Keystone Heights with Pastor Steven Klingler officiating. She lived a God-filled life. Well done my good and faithful servant. To God Be The Glory. Interment will be private at Keystone Heights Cemetery. The family prefers flowers at the church, which she loved, then to be cherished by family.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights, 32656. 352-473-3176. Please visit www.jonesgallagherfh.com for further information.
PAID OBITUARY
Dorothy Yarbrough
Dorothy Grace Matter Yarbrough, 73, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, after a courageous nine-year battle with cancer. She touched many lives and will be deeply missed by her family and friends. She was born April 17, 1952, in Youngstown, Ohio to the late Attorney Carroll E. Matter and Grace V. Moyers Matter. She was raised in rural Ohio and graduated from Western Reserve High School in Berlin Center, Ohio. In 1973, she enlisted in the United States Navy and served on active duty and in the reserves until 1978. Her military career brought her to Jacksonville, where she remained until 2017, when she moved to Starke. After the Navy, she earned her bachelor’s degree in allied health from the University of North Florida in Jacksonville. She became a master cosmetologist and quickly realized that cosmetology was her passion. It afforded her the opportunity to witness, grow extended family, fulfill her artistic bent, and make people happy. She shared her knowledge and skills by being an educator in the corporate sector as well as for the Duval County Public School System until her retirement in 2016. She was actively involved in each of her home churches, the most recent being Grace Methodist Church in Lawtey. She had many interests. Over her lifetime, she was involved in ballroom dancing and competition, became a master gardener, was a member of several garden clubs and was involved in genealogical research. She loved and was loved by people and could easily strike up a conversation with almost anyone. She was preceded in her new journey by her parents, Carroll E. Matter (1910-1973), Grace V. Matter (1917-1982); and her brother, Carroll Allen Matter (1956-2017).
She is survived by her husband, Timothy Lamar Yarbrough.
There will be a celebration of life at Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home in Starke, on Monday May 19, at 10 a.m., followed by internment at Jacksonville National Cemetery the same day at 2:30 p.m., where she will be laid to rest with her brother and sister veterans.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke, 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
