Warren Carver
Warren Carver, loving husband, father and grandfather, went to his Heavenly home on Thursday, March 19, 2026. Warren was born in Suwannee County on Sept. 7, 1943. He proudly served in the Florida National Guard after high school graduation and was employed for 30 years with the USDA as County Executive Director, ASCS, for Bradford and Clay counties. He was a member of the Bradford County Fair Association for 50-plus years and served as past president. One of his favorite pastimes, in addition to fishing, was his longtime membership in the Kiwanis club of Starke. He received the coveted George F. Hixson award in 2006 and was Kiwanian of the Year in 2021. He spent his free time enjoying his family and coaching his boys in Little League baseball and helping them with their swine projects for the fair. His favorite times were family times, grilling outside poolside with everyone around. During his early years growing up in Live Oak, he was baptized and accepted Jesus as his Savior. He spent 55 years as a member of First Christian Church of Starke, where he served many years as a deacon. He was deeply loved and will be missed. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Weeta and Melvin Carver; his sisters, Vida Bonds, Rebecca Carver, Wanda Green and Esther Staats; and his brothers, Earis, Burnice, Vic and Clifton.
He is survived by the love of his life, his wife, Carolyn; sons, Robert (Laurie), Jamey (Nicole), and Jeff (Sharon); and grandchildren, Ryan, Ty, Rachel, Finn, Mae, and Leia. He also leaves behind his favorite brother-in-law, Butch, and his wife, Patti; sister-in-law, Kathy and her husband, Rick; and sister-in-law Christie; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins
The family will receive friends at 1l a.m. on Tuesday, March 31, at First Christian Church of Starke, with a celebration of life service beginning at 11:30 a.m. A luncheon will follow at Belle Oaks Barn, 11800 S.W. 157th Ave., Brooker 32622.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke 904-964-6200 www.jonesgalagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Donnie Conner
Donald “Donnie” Joseph Conner, born Aug. 28, 1956, in Dade City, passed away Monday, March 16, 2026, at Live Oak Health and Rehab after an extended illness, surrounded by his loving family. Donnie’s life was marked by hard work, strong community ties and a genuine passion for the simple pleasures of life. A man of many hats, and not just his “Gator” one, he began his career as a brick mason, demonstrating a skill set grounded in precision and labor-intensive craftsmanship. He later served as the head mechanic at Lake Butler Apparel Company for nearly 15 years until the company ceased operations. Undeterred, he established Big “D” Painting & Pressure Washing, which he managed successfully for another 15 years until health issues prompted his retirement. Known for his outgoing and talkative nature, he was a cherished friend who enjoyed spending time with his hunting buddies, the Jackson’s crew, and his family. In his earlier years, he was an avid hunter and later found joy in fishing. He was also renowned for his culinary skills, frequently cooking for friends and family. He was known to keep a gas cooker in the truck just in case he needed to whip up a meal. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marlin and Marline Conner; his brother, Ralph Conner Sr.; and his nephew, Ralph Conner Jr.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Cathy Conner; their daughter, Donna Kay (Drue) Luke; as well as their granddaughter, Caitlin Luke. He is also survived by his sister, Linda Whitehead; and half-siblings, Charlie Owens, Ricky Owens, and Shiela Owens.
A memorial service to honor his life was Friday, March 30, 2026, at Archer-Milton Funeral Home. Family. Friends, and those whose lives he touched are invited to pay their respects and celebrate a life well-lived.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home was honored to serve Donnie’s family during this difficult time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Floyd Crosby Jr.
Floyd Russell Crosby Jr., 89, passed away Saturday, March 14, 2026. Born Jan. 10, 1937, on a 40-acre farm in Starke. He was the son of the late Floyd Russell Sr. and Annie Teresa Bennett Crosby. His family was of the Baptist religion, and he accepted Christ at an early age and committed to live for Christ the rest of his life. He graduated from Bradford County High School, Starke, in 1954, after working two years at T Big Dad Shirt Manufacturing Company. He then joined the United States Air Force. He served four years as a radar operator in South Carolina, Alaska, and Tampa, where he met his future wife, Judith Helen Roth, who became his lifelong companion on Aug. 20, 1960. After marriage, Floyd and Judy moved to Jacksonville, where Floyd was introduced to a lifelong career in the computing profession. He then went to work as a computer operator and, later, into management at the University of Florida, where he got his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Degree. In 1978, he accepted a job at the University of West Virginia as Director of University Computing and Telecommunications. During his tenure, he earned his master’s degree in business administration and joined the Naval Reserve, traveling throughout the United States and European Headquarters in Germany. At age 60 he retired and moved back to Florida until 2021, when he and Judy moved to Pennsylvania to be near their son and family. He was living in Oak Hill Independent Living, where he resided until his death. In 1967, he and Judy were blessed with a son, Mark Alan Crosby who is married to Melissa. He and Judy have a grandson named Tiberious Edwin Crosby. He was predeceased by his sisters, Wanda Ione Crews, Mary Alice Stanley and Anna Ruth Johnson; and brother, Marshall Bennett Crosby. He was a member of Hershey Free Evangelical Church.
A memorial service will be held Monday, March 30, at Hershey Free Church, 330 Hilltop Road, Hummelstown, Pennsylvania, 17036 at 10 a.m. Interment with military honors will take place at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery at a later date. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.FinkenbinderFamily.com.
Arrangements entrusted to Miller-Finkenbinder Funeral Home & Crematory, Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania.
PAID OBITUARY
Harold Davis
Harold Kenneth Davis, 92, of Starke passed away Monday, March 16, 2026, at Solaris Healthcare in Lake City. He was born in Charleston, South Carolina on Aug. 13, 1933, to the late Harry K. Davis and Myrtle Gooding Davis. He was raised in South Carolina and relocated to Jacksonville in the early 1940s. Shortly thereafter, his family made Bradford County their home, where he remained a lifelong resident. After graduating from Bradford High School, he continued his education at the University of Florida, where he proudly earned his associate degree before joining the United States Army. He served honorably from 1953 to 1956 during the Korean War and was stationed in Japan. Following his military service, he began a career in the insurance profession with Independent Life Insurance Company, where he helped others plan for their futures. During this time, he met his best friend and lifelong companion, Sandra Kay Moore. They were happily married on Oct. 30, 1965, and shared 60 wonderful years together, raising two children and building a family that grew to include four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. After his years providing insurance, he enjoyed a long and successful career in banking, culminating with his role at Gainesville Mortgage, where he worked as a mortgage broker for more than 20 years. Harold was a true jack-of-all-trades and was affectionately known by family and friends as “Mr. Fix It.” Having learned from his father, an electrician, he developed exceptional skills as a handyman. He generously shared his talents in plumbing, electrical work, air conditioning, and woodworking. He especially took pride in crafting banisters for family homes, a trade he truly enjoyed. He was a longtime member of American Legion in Starke and enjoyed participating on their baseball team. Harold found great fulfillment in giving back to others, particularly through working with youth. He coached local softball for many years, forming lasting bonds and meaningful relationships along the way. In his free time, he cherished the peacefulness of the outdoors, especially the calm of fishing, while always enjoying the thrill of reeling in the next big catch. He was also an avid Florida Gator fan who took great pride in cheering on his team, but more than anything, he was a family man who cherished time with his family. Harold was a man of honor and patriotism whose greatest joy came from helping others, a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Randall Davis; and sister-in-law, Ginger Davis.
Harold is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Sandra Moore Davis of Starke; children, Tracy (Joe) Reichert and Harold Kenneth (Renee’) Davis II, both of Starke; grandchildren, Hunter (Amber) Reichert, Shelby (Scott) Brushingham, Hailey Reichert, and Harrison Davis; great-grandchildren, Peyton, Andi, Raelyn, and Colbi; along with several extended family members and friends.
Harold’s family will celebrate his precious life with family and friends at a later date, which will be announced.
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
Evelyn Dicks
Evelyn Joyce Dicks, 94, passed away peacefully at her home in Lake City on Monday, March 16, 2026. Born on April 3, 1931, in Union County, Evelyn’s life was a testament to kindness, resilience, and an enduring zest for life. She devoted 23 years as a deli manager for Publix, where her dedication and cheerful demeanor made her a beloved figure among customers and colleagues alike. Known for her welcoming nature and the adage that she “never met a stranger,” she carried a light and joy that brightened even the most ordinary days. A proud member of Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, her faith was a cornerstone throughout her journey. Her passions extended beyond her career; she was an avid enthusiast of yard work, shopping, and the mindful challenge of jigsaw puzzles. Ever the adventurer at heart, she was known to have a bag always packed and ready, eager to embrace the next travel opportunity. She was preceded in death by her parents, Doc and Emma Harris; her son, William Marvin Dicks; and an extended family of six sisters and seven brothers.
Her family was her pride and joy. She is lovingly remembered by her devoted daughters, Shirley (Russell) Adams and Debbie Childers. Her life was enriched by the laughter and love of seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. Numerous nieces and nephews also remain touched by her guidance and spirited personality.
A visitation was held on Friday, March 20, at Archer-Milton Funeral Home, 55 N. Lake Ave., Lake Butler, followed by a funeral service. She was laid to rest following the service at Elzey Chapel Cemetery. Evelyn’s community and loved ones were invited to gather and celebrate the remarkable life of a woman who inspired kindness, embraced life’s adventures, and left an indelible mark on all who had the honor to know her.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home was honored to once again serve the family of Ms. Evelyn Dicks. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Larry Ford
“Captain” Larry L. Ford, 70, a lifelong resident of Keystone Heights, “Speedville Community,” Florida, was born Dec. 4, 1955, to the late Lois Mae Harris and Lawerence “L.Z.” Ford. He departed this walk of life Saturday, March 21, 2026, at his home. Larry was a 1973 graduate of Bradford High School in Starke, then served in the United States National Guard and Army. After, he was employed with the State of Florida, Department of Corrections for many years and retired as a Captain.
Visitation will be Friday, March 27, from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m., at Divine Deliverance COGBF, 3562 SE Eight Ave, Melrose. Celebration of Life service will be Saturday, March 28, at 2 p.m. at Keystone Heights Methodist Church, 4004 S.R. 21 S.E., Keystone Heights. Burial will be at Speedville Cemetery, 875 S.E. 35th St., Melrose.
Services entrusted to the care of Pinkney-Smith Funeral Home of Hawthorne. 352-481-2903. For further information please contact Pinkney-Smith Funeral Home, Hawthorne and Gainesville.
PAID OBITUARY
Janine Goolsby
Janine Marie Goolsby, 51, of Florahome died unexpectedly on Friday, March 20, 2026. Her family moved to Melrose in 1975, where she attended Keystone Heights schools.
Survivors are her husband, John Goolsby; daughter, Ashleigh Marie Allen; siblings, John Allen Jr., Julie Allen, and Jeff Allen; three stepchildren; and two granddaughters.
A visitation will be held at Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E Walker Drive, Keystone Heights, 32656, on Thursday, March 26, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. A Celebration of Life will take place at Brooklyn Boys Pizza on Sunday, March 29, at 1 p.m.
Gloria Shuford
Mrs. Gloria Crawford Shuford, 88, of Lawtey passed away Sunday, March 22, 2026, at her residence in Lawtey. Gloria was born Jan. 21, 1938, in Lawtey to the late Jack and Lettie (Edwards) Crawford and was a Bradford High School graduate, class of 1956. Following graduation, she moved to Jacksonville and worked for Prudential for 15 years. She returned to Bradford County and worked as the records supervisor at Lawtey Correctional Institution before ending her career working as vice president of the Raiford Branch of State Employees Credit Union in 2003. She was a member of Grace United Methodist Church in Lawtey and enjoyed sitting by the pool, time with family, spoiling her granddaughters, and loved gardening. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Dave Shuford; and her siblings, Lloyd Crawford, Betty Rosenberg, Hazel Muse, Jack Crawford, and Vivian Crawford.
Survivors are her son, Raymond (Pattie) Shuford of Lawtey; and brother, Darold (Dale) Crawfor of Douglasville, Georgia. She was lovingly called “Nanny” by grandchildren, Taylor Shuford and Courtney Tillman (T.J.); and great-grandchildren, Remi, Paislyn, and Sadie.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, March 28, at 1 p.m. at DeWitt C. Jones Chapel of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home. A celebration of life service will follow at 2 p.m.
Arrangements are with Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
David Woodard
It’s with a heavy heart and a lot of fond memories that we gather to remember and celebrate the life of David Earl Woodard of Starke. Born Dec. 22, 1933, he lived a full and colorful life until the day he passed after an extended illness on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Riverwood Health and Rehab at the age of 92. Now, if you knew David, you knew he was talkative, social, downright silly at times, and full of life. He had a way about him that could light up any room, and he surely was Papa to everyone, a title he wore as one of his proudest accomplishments. He loved casting his line and spending quiet hours fishing, finding peace in the ripples of the water. His work ethic was as steady. He devoted 30 years of his life as a salesman for Sawyer Gas Company. He also proudly served our country in the US Army and Army National Guard for over 22 years, showing a deep sense of duty and honor that never faded. He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Jimmie Gray Woodard; his dear wife of 55 years, Betty Lou Woodard; his son Bill Woodard; and his siblings J.M. Allen, Earnest Allen, Susie Glisson, Evie Johnson, and Emma Pierce.
David is survived by the children he loved and raised: Earnest (Mary) Woodard, Annette (David) Dixon, David Steven (Tammie) Woodard, Susie (Kirby) Smith, and Sarah Woodard. His grandchildren, who brought him so much joy, Christie, Angela, Vicky, Dustin, Matthew, Lacey, Alan, Rose, Roxanne Dean, David and Tad DeLoach, whom he considered another grandchild; and his great-grandchildren, Brayden, Austin, Ethan, Colbie, Abby, Brooklyn, Liam, Kyleigh, Landon, Hallie, Rory, and Reid, each carrying a piece of Papa’s laughter and heart with them.
We gathered to say our final goodbye with a graveside service on Monday, March 23. It was held at Crosby Lake Cemetery in Starke. David Earl Woodard may have left this world, but he won’t ever leave our hearts. His voice, his stories, and that ever-cheerful spark will keep on echoing in the hearts of many for years to come. Rest easy, Papa.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home was honored to serve the Woodard family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
