William Bass
William Allen Bass, 90, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, at the Veterans Medical Center in Lake City, after an extended illness. He was born on April 7, 1935, in Newberry, to John and Elizabeth Bass. He dedicated many years of his career as a correctional officer for the Department of Corrections until his retirement. His time in service extended to the military as well, where he proudly served eight years with the United States Air Force, followed by three years with the United States Army. He was an outgoing individual who had a warm spirit and made friends easily, never meeting a stranger throughout his journey. Life for him was enriched by the activities he cherished. He had a profound love for the outdoors, which he expressed through his hobbies of hunting, fishing, boating, and yard work. These passions allowed him to connect deeply with nature and create lasting memories with family and friends. He shared a loving marriage with his wife of nearly 50 years, Betty Bass, and together they raised a family filled with love and support. He is survived by his daughters, Lori Foster, Wanda Wall, and Malissa Perryman; grandchildren Brittney Talmadge, Wyatt Snellgrove, Janell Fenn, Kasie Nocks, Dana Johnson, Danielle Raen-Saunders, Lynsi Bielling, and Hali Shaw; as well as 11 great-grandchildren who brought great joy to his life. His brother, Monroe Bass, also survives him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Elizabeth Bass; his daughters, Shelly Snellgrove and Kealyn Brown; son, Gary Rabon; grandson, Dillon Snellgrove; and siblings Baxter, Robert, and Thomas Bass; along with his sister, Martha Holder.
Family and friends weree invited to honor his life and legacy with visitation on Wednesday, Aug. 27, followed by a graveside service. Both services took place at Dedan Cemetery, 13883 SW County Rd 231, Brooker 32622, with Rev. Kenneth Martin officiating.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to once again serve Mrs. Betty and the Bass family. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Howard Driver
Howard Wayman Driver, born on Jan. 13, 1945, in Mayo, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025, at Community Hospice Douglas Center for Caring at Baptist Health Hospital in Jacksonville after a short illness. He dedicated many years with the Department of Transportation, where he served with the road department until his retirement. He is remembered for his love of fishing and hunting, as well as his remarkable ability to cultivate a prize-winning garden. He shared an extraordinary bond with his sister, Wanda, a connection that many siblings may not experience. He spent his final years at Macclenny Nursing and Rehab Center, where he was cared for by Wanda until her passing in July 2024. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Vicky Driver, parents, Riley and Apal Driver; and siblings, including Carol Swafford, Wanda Griffis, Joe Driver, Shirley Mulkey, Ray Driver, Mack Driver, Wonell Mulkey, Bernice Jones, G.W. Driver, and Ernest Driver.
He leaves behind his beloved family, including his sister, Glenda Crawford; sons, Darrel Driver of Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and Keith (Andrea) Driver of Corpus Christi, Texas. Howard was a proud grandfather to Genevieve and Logan Driver; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
A graveside service to honor his life took place on Sunday, Aug. 24, at Midway Baptist Church Cemetery, 3701 SE County Road 405, Mayo, 32066.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve Howard’s family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Edgar Douglass Jr.
Edgar Wilson Douglass Jr., 78, of Lake Butler, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family Monday, Sept. 1, 2025. He was born Feb. 6, 1947, in Fort Meade, to Edgar Wilson Douglass, Sr. and Sara Lucille McClure. A lifelong resident of Lake Butler, he was a devoted Christian and believer in Jesus Christ. He retired from Clay Electric after 32 years of dedicated service. Known for his love of the outdoors, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, working cattle, and farming. His hardworking spirit, love for his family, and steadfast faith will be remembered by all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his first loving wife, Martha Ann Douglass; son, Edgar Wilson Douglass III; and brothers, Sonny Douglass, Bert Douglass, and Roger Douglass.
He is survived by his loving daughters, Conney (Nicky) Gay and Kelly (Randy) Carlton; cherished granddaughters, Kierstin Jenkins, Karsyn (Andrew) Robinson, Katelynn Jenkins, Madison (Nate) Turner, and Taylor Douglass; and adored great-grandchildren, Maverick Robinson, Reagan Robinson, and Stella Turner. He is also survived by siblings, Lois Hersey, Charlotte (Lancin) Hersey, Mary (Doley) Hersey, Deborah (Gizzy) Hollingsworth, Barbara Hall, Jean Raulerson, Donna Warren, Larry Joe Douglass, and Bobby Douglass; along with countless nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.
Funeral services will be on Thursday, Sept. 4, at 4 p.m. at Mt. Zion Cemetery in Lake Butler. The eulogy will be given by Brother Mike Norman.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve the Douglass family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Gary Faircloth
Gary Faircloth, 74, a lifelong resident of Jacksonville and Lake Santa Fe passed away Friday, Aug. 22, after a courageous battle with cancer. He left his earthly home surrounded by his loving family and was peacefully reunited in heaven with his wife, Lorraine. He was a vibrant person who loved staying active. He was an avid Alabama Crimson Tide season ticket holder and loved traveling to Tuscaloosa, where he had an amazing group of friends to tailgate with. He became an “Honorary Bailey Brother” (high praise for those who know). As part of his full lifestyle, he was a board member of Santa Fe Lake Dwellers Association, a member of Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, a member of Keystone Heights Methodist Church, and he enjoyed singing karaoke with his friends every week. He also maintained lifelong friendships with countless members of Paxon High School Class of 1969, for whom he and Lorraine coordinated class reunions, luncheons, and other events. They had close friendships with a core group of classmates who became like family to them and their children. His life was a personification of Proverbs 18:24, “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” He worked for decades in the underground utilities industry, most recently as a senior inspector for C&ES Consultants. His knowledge and expertise in this industry were invaluable on any site he managed. He was routinely tasked with multi-million-dollar projects, where his knowledge helped shape growth and development throughout the State of Florida. Gary was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and cousin to his family. He loved spending time with them all and especially enjoyed being surrounded by his grandchildren. He loved sharing stories of his life and passed on lessons that helped shape his children and grandchildren. He showed his affection through action, always willing to help others when called upon. He was a surrogate dad to nephew Dewayne (Danielle) Bennett and a proud, loving “Uncle Bo” to nieces Amy Kinsey, Kim Harrison, and Kate Harrison. He also loved his many other nieces and nephews, who affectionately called him “Uncle Bo” or “UG.”
He is survived by his sister, Gilda Kinsey; children, Adam (Christina) Faircloth and Emily (Steve) Makley; grandchildren, Cameron Fletcher, Grayson Faircloth, Alex Fletcher and Reagan Faircloth; bonus grandchildren, Rory (Brad) Blum and Rachel Nickles’ and his beloved great-granddaughter JoJo.
A Celebration of Life will take place Saturday, Sept. 13, at 10:30 a.m. at Keystone Heights Methodist Church, located at 4004 State Road 21, Keystone Heights 32656. Following the service, the family invites Gary’s friends and family to join them for a catered tailgate party (inside the Multi-Ministry Center) to watch the Tide with Gary one last time. Kickoff at noon.
In lieu of flowers, the family humbly requests donations to be made in Gary’s memory to the Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) at: concernsofpolicesurvivors.org or the National Fallen Firefighters Association at: firehero.org
There will be a private, family interment.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services, 250 N. Lowder St., Macclenny 32063. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family’s guest book. 904-259-5700.
PAID OBITUARY
William Howard Jr.
William Shands Howard Jr., 85 of Lake Butler, peacefully left for his heavenly home on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025, after a brief illness. Shands, as he was known by friends and family, was born Jan. 31, 1940, to Williams Shands Howard Sr. and Opal Baxter Howard. He graduated from Union County High School and entered the US Army in July of 1958, eventually becoming a part of the 82nd Airborne. Following his military service, he attended the University of Florida. He completed his degree with a major in animal science and a minor in agricultural economics in 1965. After college he began his banking career and would be employed by several financial institutions over time, including Farmer’s and Dealer’s Bank and Community State Bank. As a banker, he guided many young people through their first loans and helped farmers and small-business owners navigate troubled financial times. He shared his wisdom and friendship with many, who can testify to the life-changing advice he gave and how they benefited from his knowledge and caring. He married Barbara Frances Douglas of Gainesville in 1962. He and Fran had two children, Shands Douglas and Shantel D’Lynn. In 1975, his love for Union County drew him back to his hometown, and he and Fran built a home in Lake Butler to farm and raise their children. At age 59, after 37 years full of love and grandchildren, Fran passed away suddenly in 2000. In 2002, he found love again with Lori Mooneyham Clyatt, and they were married for 23 years until his death. He grew up with a deep appreciation for the land and the joys of country living. A lifelong outdoorsman, he found great happiness in hunting and farming. He lived a life rooted in hard work and respect for God’s creation and loved being on a tractor and a deer stand. Always a farmer in his heart, he found success in the timber and cattle business and continued being a farmer until his death. In his words, he “lived on the farm growing timber, cattle and grandkids.” He loved hunting and enjoyed sharing this love with his children and grandchildren and spent many hours in the woods, taking in the beauty of nature. He will be remembered for his love for the land and the countless memories made with family and friends around the farm and in the woods. His love for Union County ran deep, and he was actively involved in the community in many ways. He was a member of the Bradford-Union Cattlemen’s Association and, over the years, assisted and supported many youths in their livestock projects. He was elected and served as a Union County School Board Member from 1986 to 1996. He was a member of Rotary club for many years. He loved Union County High School sports and was a football season ticket holder and booster club member. He was an avid Florida Gator fan and held football season tickets for many years and traveled to many away games, making memories on these trips with family and friends. Besides football, he loved all things Gator. Shands was an active and faithful member of Harmony Free Will Baptist Church in Lake Butler. He was raised in this church and through his years, he served as Deacon, Sunday School Director, and Church Trustee. His witness and testimony drew many people to the Lord, and the legacy of his Christian faith will follow him to eternity. He especially loved his role as “Poppy” and thrived in sharing time with his grandchildren and being involved in their lives.
Remaining to cherish Shands memory are his wife, Lori; his children, Shands Douglas (Danielle) Howard and Shantel Howard (Adam) Nelson; stepchildren, Lindsay (Jeremy) Craft and Jordan (Ashley) Clyatt; grandchildren, Sheyenne, Cole, Teala (Matthew), Shands, Sabrena, Charlotte, Levi and Walter; sister, Barbara (Edward) Carter; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Shands was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Fran; and his sisters, Ila Howard Woodingto, and Gloria Howard Holmes.
Visitation was held on Thursday, Aug. 28, at Harmony Free Will Baptist Church. The funeral service was held Friday, Aug. 29, at the same location.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve the Howard family during this time. 386-496-20058 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Jerry Lewis
Jerry Lee Lewis, 44, died Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Jacksonville. He was born Oct. 19, 1980, in Phoenix, Arizona, the son of Charles Lewis and Mary Ann. He resided in Lawtey where he dedicated himself to being a handy man.
He is survived by his mother; two daughters; two sisters; a brother; and five growing grandbabies.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. For more info email [email protected].
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Dr., Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
Lucy White
Mrs. Lucy Mae White, 96, of Coral Springs, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025, at American House, Coconut Point in Estero, following an extended illness. She was born Sept. 3, 1928, in Armuchee, Georgia to the late Howard and Ruth Lillian (Self) Barton and graduated from Bradford High School. She was a homemaker and longtime member of First United Methodist Church of Starke, now known as Foundation Church. She was a member of Starke Women’s Club, the local Hospital Auxiliary and Starke Red Hat Society. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Olin W. White Jr.; sons, Larry O. White and Robert W. White; and siblings, J.C. Barton, Claude Barton, Avanelle Johnson, Olden (Pete) Barton, Clinton Barton, and Thelma (Topsy) Ebling.
Survivors are a son, Michael S. (Patricia) White of Coral Springs, and daughters-in-law, Melinda White of Bonita Springs and Cindy White of Starke. Also left are five grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
The family will receive friends at DeWitt C. Jones Chapel of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home on Saturday, Sept. 6, from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. with funeral services beginning at 3 p.m. A private interment at Crosby Lake Cemetery will follow. Rev. Jerry Carris will officiate. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Foundation Church, P.O. Box 157, Starke, 32091
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Loretta Wolfe
Our beloved Grandma, Loretta Elaine Pewett Wolfe, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025, at the age of 82. She was at home in Lake Butler, surrounded by family and love, exactly the way she would’ve wanted it. She was born Sept. 9, 1942, in Ocala to Ida Mae and Edwin Pewett, who preceded her in death along with her brother-in-law, Jimmy Reynolds; and sister-in-law, Bette Wolfe. Just two years ago, she beat colon cancer with her trademark strength and grace. And only last week, she began preparing to face a new battle with breast cancer. Her courage was never loud or showy, it was quiet, constant, and wrapped in love. That’s who she was. A giver. A protector. The glue that held generations together. To us, she was simply “Grandma.” She was the heart of our family, and not just because she was there for every milestone, every holiday, every time we needed someone to talk to. She was the one who kept the porch light on, the one who made sure no one ever left hungry or unloved. She hated cooking, and yet somehow there was always food. And her homemade pound cakes? You’d better get in line early, or you’d miss out. For the past 16 years, she gave up her own retirement to raise her great-grandchildren, pouring every ounce of her energy and love into giving them the best life she could. That was Grandma, selfless, unwavering, and full of a love that never asked for anything in return. She had a deep love for traveling, especially cross-country road trips with her family. She adored sports, both playing and watching. And yes, she had a bit of a thing for slot machines, penny ones especially. She knew how to find joy in small thrills and big moments alike. Above all, she was a woman of unshakable faith. A devoted member of Church of Christ, she lived her life in service to God and others. Her faith wasn’t just something she spoke about. It was something she lived every single day, through kindness, compassion, and grace.
Her love shaped us. Her strength carried us. Her presence grounded us. And while we already feel the enormous hole she leaves behind, we know she’s exactly where she always hoped to be, resting in peace, wrapped in God’s love, reunited with those who went before her.
She is survived by her loving husband, Jay Wolfe; her only daughter, Vicki Wolfe; and three grandchildren: Tony Gutierrez (Sean LeBlanc), Nikki Gutierrez, and Karinna Fuente. She also leaves behind three great-grandchildren, Antonio Geist, Bristol-Linn Geist, and Cash Geist, who were the light of her life. She is also survived by her siblings, Otis Pewett, Sue Pewett (Richard) Durgee and Marcie Reynolds; and by nieces, nephews, and too many cousins to count, because once you were family to her, you were family forever.
The viewing was held Tuesday, Sept. 2, at Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. The funeral service will be Wednesday, Sept. 3, at 3 p.m. at Lake Butler Church of Christ. Burial will follow at Elzey Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to assist with funeral and burial costs: gofundme.com/f/honoring-loretta-help-us-lay-her-to-rest
Thank you to everyone who has shown love, support, and prayers for our family. Grandma was truly one of a kind, and she’ll live on in all of us.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home was honored to serve Loretta’s family during this difficult time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
