David Canova
Mr. David E. Canova, 85, of Starke and a former resident of over 50 years at Kingsley Lake passed away at HCA Hospital in Gainesville, Monday, Nov. 3, 2025. He was born Sept. 14, 1940, in Gainesville, to the late Levy and Mona (Alderman) Canova. David lived a full and vibrant life, cherished by all who knew him. A proud veteran of the U.S. Army, he served his country with honor. He spent his professional life as a Senior Systems Analyst for Florida Farm Bureau in the insurance industry, where he was known for his dedication and expertise. He was a longtime active member of Kingsley Lake Baptist Church, where his faith played a central role in his life. He enjoyed the great outdoors, whether it was tending to his yard, hunting, or fishing. He was a passionate Florida Gators fan and a coin collector as well. He also loved to sing in church choirs. David was a devoted family man, celebrating 57 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Dee (Walters) Canova, and together they raised two sons, Brian (Erica Pfenniger) and Jason (Peijie) Canova, who have continued his legacy. As a grandfather to five grandchildren, David took immense joy in his role as “Pop,” creating countless memories filled with laughter and love. He also had a soft spot for his fur babies, Benjii and Anndee.
The family will be having a private graveside service at Crosby Lake Cemetery, with Rev. Jonathan Rodriguez officiating. A Celebration of Life will be held at Kingsley Lake Baptist Church on Saturday, Nov. 22, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Kingsley Lake Baptist Church Building Fund, 6289 Mary Dot Lake, Starke, 32091
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke 32091. 904-964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
William Lawson Jr.
William Edward Lawson Jr., also known as Bill or Sonny, passed away Friday, Oct. 17, 2025, at the age of 83. He was born to the late William Edward Lawson Sr and the late Mildred Mosely Lawson in Starke on April 4, 1942. Mr. Lawson was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. He served from 1959 to 1963 during the Minuteman Missile and the Cuban Missile Crisis. Bill started dating Janet in Oct. 1965. The two fell in love and got married June 17, 1966. They would have celebrated 60 yrs of wedded bliss this coming June 2026. Bill attended the University of Florida and was a die-hard fan of the Florida Gators, especially Steve Spurrier, Danny Wuerffel and Tim Tebow. He was preceded in death by his parents; and great- granddaughter, Olivia Rose Passmore.
He is survived by his wife, Sarah “Janet” Parmenter Lawson; four children, Cindy (Bob) Bailey of Georgia, Karen (Chad) Oakley of Florida, April (Jeff) Fowler of Florida and Michael Lawson (Keitha) of Texas; 15 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and brothers, James (Joanne) Lawson of Florida and David “Tony” (Patricia) Lawson of Florida. He will be missed greatly by all those who loved him.
A Celebration of Life will be held on his birthday, April 4, 2026. Time and location to be announced at a later date. You may send your condolences to the family at this email address: [email protected].
PAID OBITUARY
Glen Preuhs
Glen Preuhs died peacefully, surrounded by family. He was preceded in death by his children, Susan Marie Blomstrom, Nancy Ann Hale, and Tony Glen Preuhs; and great-grandson, Devlyn Glen Voss.
Survivors are granddaughters, Tracy (David) van Eijl and Jessi Voss; four great-grandchildren; two sisters; and extended family members.
The family will have a time of fellowship beginning at 10 a.m at DeWitt C. Jones Chapel on Saturday, Dec. 13. A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
Robert N. Stewart
Robert N. Stewart, 77, of Lawtey passed away at home following a lengthy illness on Friday, Nov. 7, 2025. His hometown was Jacksonville and he was born there in 1948 to J.R. and Mary L. Stewart. He attended Andrew Jackson High and later worked for a pest control company. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, raised cattle and grew hay. He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; and one sister.
Robert is survived by his wife, Caroline Stewart; and two brothers, John Stewart Jr. and Donald Stewart.
Services for Robert are not planned at this time. Donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation in his memory.
Cremation is under the direction of Crevasse’s Simple Cremation.
PAID OBITUARY
Ronald Willis Sr.
Mr. Ronald Eugene Willis Sr., 58, of Starke passed away Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025, at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville. Ron was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on March 30, 1967, and has been a resident of Starke his entire life. He was an active member of Cross Church of Starke and enjoyed Victory Revival Center. Prior to retirement, he worked as a driver for Padgett Trucking for many years. His greatest joy was spending time with his family. He loved hunting and fishing and could be found wearing his favorite camouflage T-shirts most days. Preceding him in death was his grandmother, Dorothy Tetstone, who raised him as her own; and his birth mother, Juanita Bradley.
Survivors are his loving wife of seven years, Jennifer “Lynn” Welch Willis of Starke; son, Ron (Zak) Willis Jr.; stepdaughter, Alexis N. Lane, who he adored. He was lovingly called “Pop Pop” by Hadley Willis, and leaves behind many cousins and friends who will remember him as a great listener with a big heart and a great sense of humor.
The family will receive friends at DeWitt C. Jones Chapel of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home on Friday, Nov. 21, from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. with funeral services beginning at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Crosby Lake Cemetery.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
