Albert Andrews
Albert Jefferson Andrews, 79, was called home Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025. Born and raised in Lake Butler, he embarked on a journey that would see him wear many hats. A man of many talents, he dedicated himself to many ventures, ranging from chicken houses to owning and operating a bar and even establishing a tree- service business. Each endeavor bore the hallmark of his unwavering work ethic and tenacity, attributes that served him well through a life lived fully and passionately. In 1965, he distinguished himself by joining the Army, serving as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne for two years, embodying bravery and commitment that reflected his extraordinary character. He was a man of the land and an ardent lover of horses. Whether he was riding or enjoying the exhilarating rush of barrel racing, each time on a horse captivated his heart. He took great pride in helping children who sought to learn the art of riding, nurturing their dreams with the same generosity of spirit that characterized his entire life. His big heart and willingness to assist anyone in need earned him the admiration of many as he seamlessly wove compassion into the very fabric of his existence. His ventures did not overshadow a sense of adventure found in the great outdoors, where Albert relished hog and deer hunting.
He is survived by his devoted sons, Albert, (Cindy) Andrews Jr., Brent Andrews, Bart (Danielle) Andrews, and Don (Jennifer) Andrews; along with his grandsons, Luke (Brittany) Andrews, Tristan (Sonya) Andrews, Clint Andrews, and Houston Andrews. He also leaves behind his brother, Alvin (Lorine) Andrews; and sister, Betty Zimmerman.
Though he leaves behind a profound legacy, we also remember those who predeceased him, including parents, James and Ida Mae Andrews; siblings, Mildred King, Amelia Morgan, James Andrews, Frank Andrews, Bobbie Andrews, R.L. Moore, Neva Andrews, Andy Andrews, Perry Andrews, and Ken Andrews; and granddaughter, Amberly Andrews.
A visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 17, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Archer-Milton Funeral Home in Lake Butler, where family and friends will gather to honor and celebrate the life of this remarkable man.
PAID OBITUARY
Sara Gordon
Sara Lynn Gordon, 62, of Orange Park died Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025. She was born Jan. 2, 1963, in Jacksonville to the late Perry and Wanda (McLamore) Nall.
Survivors are her husband, Keith Wade; children, Michael (Wilinda) Gordon and Misty Gordon (Tom Platt): stepson, Kevin (Sarah) Gordon; brother, Kenneth (Janet) Nall; and extended family.
She wanted to be cremated, and a service held at a later date.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke 32091. 904-964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
Martha Powell
Martha Jule Armstong Powell passed away peacefully at home Monday, Sept. 15, 2025,
surrounded by friends and family. She was a retired schoolteacher and a longtime
community leader who influenced generations of Union Countians.
She was born May 2, 1933, in Montgomery, Alabama. She was preceded in death by her
parents, James and Bernice Armstrong; brother, Jimmy Armstrong; sister, Mary Tom Kleiderer; and daughter Carol Suzanne.
She is survived by her sons, Jonathan (Linda) and David (Lisa); daughter, Nancy Bivins; three grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren
“Ms. Martha” or “Miss Mommy” was a devout Christian and a member of Lake Butler Church of Christ since 1962. Once her children were older, she returned to school and earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from the University of North Florida. She taught for many years in the Union County school system. She was a well-known storyteller and delighted in dressing up in costume and entertaining audiences with her tales. She was an avid reader and enjoyed watching old movies and PBS shows. She loved the mountains and took a number of memorable trips to see them.
She was active in a number of community organizations, including the Lake Butler Woman’s’ Club, Union County Historical Society and Union County library.
Archer Milton Funeral home is handling funeral arrangements with services to be held 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 19, at Lake Butler Church of Christ. The family will receive visitors from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 18 at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to Florida Bible Camp, 2087 SE Bible Camp St., High Springs 32643.
PAID OBITUARY
Dorothy Simmons
Dorothy Lee Simmons, 96, passed away Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025, at her residence. She was born in Lake Butler and attended the schools of Union County. She was a member of Hopewell Church of God by Faith, Providence. She was a supervisor at Alachua County Courthouse, Gainesville.
Survivors are her sisters, Fannie Grimmage, Minnie Lee Holmes, Ruth Holmes and Janie Lee Walker; and brothers, Ruben M. Holmes, Otto Holmes, John Wesley Holmes, and Clyde Holmes; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and sorrowing friends.
The viewing will be Saturday, Sept. 20, from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. at Hopewell Church of God by Faith, 6948 SW County Road 241, Lake Butler (Providence). The Cortege will form Saturday, Sept. 20, at 10:45 a.m. at the residence of Dorothy Simmons, 6869 SW 71st Ave., Lake Butler (Providence). Funeral services will be Saturday, Sept. 20, at Hopewell Church of God by Faith with Elder Walter Patrick, officiating.
Arrangements are by Haile Funeral Home Inc., 802 Oak St., Starke, 32091. 904-964-7905.
PAID OBITUARY
Leon Triest
Leon “Peewee” Triest, 73, of Gainesville and formerly a longtime resident of Keystone Heights unexpectedly passed away Friday, Sept. 12, 2025. He was born March 12, 1952, in Palatka to Thomas S. and Inez (Pribble) Triest. He graduated with the Class of 1970 from KHHS and then earned his BA degree in fine arts from Florida Southern College in Lakeland. He has been a longtime member of North Central Baptist Church in Gainesville and was definitely an AVID Florida Gator fan. He enjoyed artwork, calligraphy, reading, and most importantly, he loved his relationship with his Lord. You would never see him without a smile, which was extremely contagious. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Thomas “Tommy” Triest; and sister, Ann Klein.
Left behind to cherish his memory are his children. Amanda Schmieder and Jon Triest; sister Brenda (Jimmy) Nooney; sister-in-law. Janel Triest; grandchildren, Gabriel Triest and Giovani Triest, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends that will miss him dearly.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, Sept. 18, beginning at 2 p.m. at Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home Chapel. Wear your Gator gear with pride as we remember and celebrate Leon. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the United Cerebral Palsy Association of America.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656.
PAID OBITUARY
