Margaret Brannen
Margaret Carolyn Hersey Brannen, 90, of Theressa passed away Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Grande Cypress Assisted Living in Lake City. She was born May 27, 1936, in Theressa to Clyde and Geneva (Alford) Hersey. Margaret enjoyed a successful career in retail sales, where her warmth and charm endeared her to many customers and colleagues alike. Beyond her professional life, she attended Freedom Baptist Church and found great joy in quilt making, a passion that showcased her creativity and craftsmanship. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, David Brannen Sr.; their son, David Brannen Jr.; along with brothers, Raymond Hersey, Elbert Hersey, Dwight Hersey, Donald Hersey, and John Wayne Hersey.
Margaret leaves behind her cherished brothers, Dewitt (Helen) Hersey and Doley (Mary) Hersey, all of Theressa, and Lancin (Charlotte) Hersey of Brooker; sisters-in-law, Charlotte Hersey of Interlachen, Lois Hersey of Worthington Springs, and Peggy Hersey of Theressa. She was lovingly called “Nana” by her three grandchildren and her five great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life. Also left behind are numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will miss her dearly.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Margaret’s name to Vitas Hospice Nature Coast: https://vitascommunityconnection.org/; 265 S.W. Malone St., Lake City 32025 or 2614 N.W. 43rd St., Gainesville 32606
Funeral services will be held Friday, June 19, at 11 a.m. at Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home Chapel, Keystone Heights, with Pastor Jason Stephens officiating. Interment will follow at Hope Baptist Church Cemetery.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
George Chambers
George Martin Chambers, 79, of Keystone Heights died Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Community Hospice in Jacksonville. He proudly served in the United States Navy. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Judy Chambers; and sister, Joan Mone.
Survivors are his son, Sam (Jennifer) Chambers; grandchildren, Mason, Dezmond, Troy, Jaymz, and Jeniah; two great-grandsons, Avery and Mateo; and extended family members and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, June 22, at Middleburg Christians Church. Interment will be at 2 p.m. at Jacksonville National Cemetery with military honors.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352- 473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
Frances Danese
Frances C. Danese, 98, of Keystone Heights died Monday, June 1, 2026. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Danese; son, Robert, and her parents.
Survivors are her children, Anne Dickinson, Richard Danese, Patrick Danese and Paula True; her sister, Theresa Wagoner; and extended family.
A funeral service was held Tuesday, June 9, at St. William’s Catholic Church, 275 Satsuma St., Keystone Heights. A graveside service was held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery, 4152 Loretto Road, Jacksonville 32223.
Gayle Davis
Gayle Jolly Davis, 77, of Starke passed peacefully at her home on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Chuck Davis; son, Aaron (Sherry) Davis; daughter, Angela Clark; grandson, Conner Davis; and extended family.
A celebration of her life will be announced at a later date.
PAID OBITUARY
Anesa DelMonte
Anesa Faye DelMonte, a woman whose laughter was as contagious as her optimism, passed away Wednesday, June 10, 2026, in Starke. Born Sept. 20, 1967, in New Smyrna Beach, Anesa brought light and laughter to every room she entered and had a unique talent for making even the most ordinary days feel special. She was known not just for her humor and lively spirit, but also for her incredible dependability as a manager at Circle K, where she dedicated many years of hard work. She was that reliable force anyone could count on, someone who managed more than just a store; she managed to keep spirits high and smiles wide. Creativity flowed through Anesa. She was a master crafter, spending hours bringing her vibrant ideas to life with her nimble fingers and artistic vision. One of her signature quirks, which amused many who knew her, was her culinary “art” of keeping her food neatly separated on her plate, except for that important ketchup moment, a true gourmet in her own right! Her personality was a delightful mix of funny, silly, buoyant, and perhaps just a touch gullible, which made her company all the more endearing. She loved to laugh, and her laughter was a melody that brightened family gatherings and social circles alike.
Anesa’s loved ones remember her fondly, her children, Jeremy (Alexis) Edwards Sr., Ashley (Jason) Arthur, and Tiffany (Billy) McLeod; her beloved grandchildren, Riley, Jaleece, Jenesis, Gage, another Riley, Kolby, Preston, Bryce, Macaden, Payton, and Barrett who were the lights of her eyes; and her siblings, Patty DelMonte, Paulette (Darryl) Lindsey, Paul DelMonte Jr., and Krystal (Donnie) Cooper. She was cherished by her parents, Paul and Joyce DelMonte; and her partner, Chuck Wood; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family who will miss her dearly.
Services celebrating her life will be held at Archer-Milton Funeral Home, 55 N. Lake Ave, Lake Butler 32054. The visitation is scheduled for Thursday, June 18, from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m., followed immediately by the funeral service at 12 p.m.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve the DelMonte family during their time of loss. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Nolan E. Dobbs
Dec. 26, 1936-June 9, 2026. It is with profound sadness and deep respect that the family of Nolan Ethridge Dobbs, 89, of Glen St. Mary, announces the peaceful passing of Nolan on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. Born on Dec. 26, 1936, in Raiford, he was the son of Lester and Nora Dobbs. He graduated from Union County High School before answering the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Air Force. He proudly served in the Air Force from July 1954 to July 1974, retiring with the rank of Technical Sergeant (TSGT). During his distinguished military career, he was deployed to multiple countries, including Vietnam. He was awarded multiple commendations during his years of service to include the National Defense Service Medal. After his honorable discharge, he went on to build a successful career as a Florida Department of Corrections Officer. He was a 25-year career employee who rose in rank to Lieutenant and received multiple commendations during his years with the Department of Corrections. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Dorothy Mae; stepson, William Craig; brothers, Kenneth Dobbs, Robert Dobbs, and R.L. Dobbs; and sisters, Mabel Starling and Doris Davis.
Nolan is survived by his children, Sandra (Keith) Boettiger and Dennis (Carol) Dobbs; grandchildren, Jason (Kelli) Colabine, Daniel (Crystal) Colabine and Megan (Mitch) Newbold; great-grandchildren, Allison (Kyle) Kent, Ashley (Quintin) Hendrick, Tyler Colabine, Jaden Colabine, Madison Colabine, Abby Colabine, Peyton Colabine and Blake Craig; great-great grandchildren, Harvey Kent, Harrison Kent, Faye Hendrick, and Wyatt Hendrick; along with his beloved sister, Norma Jean Johns.
A service to honor his life was held Friday, June 12, at First Baptist Church of Raiford, with a visitation time beginning one hour prior. Brother Tommy Smith officiated with pallbearers, Joe Whitehead, Paul Whitehead, Josh Whitehead, Ronnie Rhoden, Jason Colabine and Danny Colabine. He was laid to rest immediately following the service with full military honors at Sapp Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Tunnels-to-Towers Foundation or to First Baptist Church of Raiford.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home was honored to serve Nolan’s family during this difficult time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
David Kedgley
In Loving Memory of David Kedgley. David Kedgley peacefully passed away Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at the age of 83, surrounded by the love of his family and the memories of a life well lived. Born Sept. 4, 1942, in Ipswich, Suffolk, England, David was the beloved son of Arthur Peck and Maude Kedgley Peck. He carried with him throughout his life a deep appreciation for family, friendship, and the simple joys that made each day meaningful. He proudly served in the United States Army as a cook during the Vietnam War. He was honored to serve his adopted country and carried that experience with pride throughout his life. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Taffee Kedgley; and a loving father to his son, Kevin Kedgley. He took immense pride in his grandchildren, Hayden Skyler (Abby) Kedgley, Layken Alissa Kedgley, and Leia Emmaline Mitchell, cherishing every opportunity to spend time with them creating memories that will last a lifetime. A passionate soccer fan, David faithfully supported his beloved Ipswich Town and enjoyed following matches throughout the years. Some of his happiest moments were spent watching movies and television shows with his son and grandchildren, sharing laughter and conversation together. He also loved traveling and exploring with family and friends, making countless cherished memories across Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina. He is also survived by his sister, Pat (Ken) Fordham of England. He remained proud of his English roots and treasured the bonds he shared with family both near and far. Among the many things he loved were his faithful dogs, Rosie and Charlie, who brought him companionship and joy. Above all else, he loved life and the people who filled it with meaning. David’s kindness, warmth, sense of humor, and devotion to his family will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the hearts of his family and friends and in the countless memories they shared together. He will never be forgotten and will forever be loved.
A memorial service was held Tuesday, June 16, at Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home Chapel.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3276. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Ronnie King
Ronnie Lee King, 75, of Starke, passed away Wednesday, June 10, 2026. He was born July 12, 1950, in Covington, Tennessee, to the late Willie King and Clivel Harkness. Ronnie moved from North Carolina to Florida in 1987 to become pastor of Starke United Pentecostal Church, where he pastored for 27 years. He had a life centered on faith, family, and helping others, particularly his students at Bradford Vo-Tech, where he taught auto mechanics and later, when he was principal of Bradford Christian Academy. He loved working with children and teens and once said he particularly loved seeing the “light bulb” go off when they learned something new. Ronnie had a playful sense of humor and loved to make people laugh. His love for practical jokes left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was a genuinely kindhearted and selfless man who was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He was a skilled builder and a talented mechanic who enjoyed working with his hands. He loved staying busy and was always on the go, finding satisfaction in fixing, creating, and improving whatever was in front of him. He also loved to travel and especially enjoyed his many trips to Pigeon Forge, where he made countless memories with his wife. Above all else, Ronnie loved his family. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of his world. He also had a special place in his heart for his beloved dogs, Chester and Cooper, who brought him endless companionship and joy. Ronnie will be remembered for his laughter, his generosity, his strong work ethic, and the unconditional love he shared with those around him. He was truly a wonderful man who will be dearly missed by many. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie King and Clivel Harkness; and his siblings, Venie, Larry, Bob, and Opal.
Ronnie is survived by his loving wife of 12 years, Julia Griffin King of Starke; his children, Mark (Sarah) King of Covington, Tennessee, Lisa (Chris) King-Queen of Moulton, Alabama, and Aaron (Kristen) Waldorf of Middleburg; his brother, Garry (Judy) King of Halls, Tennessee; grandchildren, Brittany King, Ethan King, Levi Waldorf, and Matthew Queen; great-grandchildren, Isabella King and Bentley King; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
A Celebration of Life was held Wednesday, June 17, at V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel with Pastor Cody Thompson officiating. The family received visitors one hour prior to service. Interment followed at Crosby Lake Cemetery.
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 guest book
PAID OBITUARY
Marilyn Kizina
Mrs. Marilyn Mason Kizina, passed away peacefully Friday, June 5, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on Christmas Eve in 1944 in Norfolk, Virginia. Marilyn lived a life full of love, hard work, and passion. She spent her later years in Starke.
She was a dedicated entrepreneur in the real estate industry, known for establishing and operating Kizina Estates in Starke. She loved what she did and made lasting connections with everyone she met along the way. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse Clyde and Netty Pearl Mason; husband, Leonard Kizina; siblings, Ray Mason and Linda Spangenberg; grandson, Nathan Kerr; and great-grandson, Broughton Russell Kerr.
Marilyn leaves behind her beloved sons, Jeff Kerr and Melvin Kerr; her loving daughter-in-law, Patricia Kerr; and grandchildren, Lauren (Grant) McMillan, Shelby Kerr, and Jeremy (Laurie) Kerr. She also leaves her precious great-grandchildren, Berklie and Bayler McMillan, Macee and Enslee Kerr. Her memory will be deeply felt by her twin sister, Carolyn Edwards; her brother, David Mason; as well as countless friends and loved ones
In honor of her life, a graveside service will be held at Jacksonville National Cemetery on Friday, June 26, at 9 a.m.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Keystone Heights, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Michelle Lovell
Michelle Ann Lovell, born Oct. 30, 1967, in Ohio, passed away unexpectedly at home on Thursday, June 11, 2026. Michelle was known and loved by many, not only for her nearly 20 years as a dedicated and compassionate OR nurse at Shands in Starke, but also for the care and kindness she shared with residents and coworkers at Winsor Manor Nursing and Rehab. Armed with an associate degree in nursing, a generous heart, and a healthy dose of determination, she spent her life helping others and making difficult days a little brighter. Those who knew her would describe her as caring, loving, dependable, and endlessly giving. Family was at the center of her world, and she took great pride in staying connected with those she loved. She also had a passion for politics and current events, ensuring she was always ready with an opinion, a lively discussion, and plenty to talk about around the dinner table. She was preceded in death by her father, Stuart Parker; her mother and stepfather, Diane and Mike McFarland; her beloved husbands, Jimmy Lovell and Randy Faile; granddaughter, Kayla Lovell; and brothers, Sean Parker, Kevin Parker, and James “Jimmy” Watkins.
Michelle leaves behind her daughter, Kristin Furneaux; stepson, Jason Lovell; and the role she treasured most, “Nana.” Her grandchildren, Austin Corbin (and Bentley Van Alan), Channing Corbin, Faith Lovell, and Cara Lovell brought her endless joy and countless reasons to smile. She was also blessed to know the love of her great-granddaughter, Evelyn Corbin. She is lovingly remembered by her siblings, Karen Parker, Deena (Rod) Crawford II, Renee (Leroy) Griffis, Christopher (Christie) McFarland, and Jennifer McFarland; along with many nieces and nephews who could always count on Aunt Michelle for love, laughter, and perhaps a little spoiling along the way.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate her life during a visitation on Friday, June 19, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Archer-Milton Funeral Home. Guests are encouraged to share favorite memories, funny stories, and maybe even a spirited political debate or two, something Michelle would have thoroughly enjoyed. Michelle leaves behind a legacy of compassion, strength, laughter, and love. Though she will be deeply missed, the memories she created and the lives she touched will continue to bring comfort, smiles, and gratitude to all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to once again serve Michelle’s family. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Redus Parks Jr.
Mr. Redus “Sparky” Samuel Parks Jr., 70, of Keystone Heights passed away at his home on Sunday, June 14, 2026. He was born Nov. 17, 1955, in Jacksonville to Redus and Louise (Butler) Parks Jr. Redus spent his life in service to others and dedicated 32 years as a shop foreman and lead mechanic at Clay Electric Corporation. He was known for his incredible skills in fixing just about anything, thanks to his artistic talents as a welder and fabricator. Before his time at Clay Electric, Sparky worked at Cool Air, but it was at Clay Electric where he truly made his mark. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Keystone Heights and loved the great outdoors, whether it was fishing, camping, or just hanging out with family and friends, he brought joy and definitely laughter wherever he went. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 38 years, Darlene; and precious granddaughter, Trinity Rasmus.
Sparky is survived by his son, Redus “Dusty” Parks III; daughter, Tina Parks; loving partner of 10 years, Teresa Fore; and sisters, Barbara Carter and Reda Janotti. He was called “Grandpa” by Ty Rasmus; and great-grandchildren, Jade and Carter. He leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and cherished memories that will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Visitation for Sparky will begin at 12 p.m. Saturday, June 20, at First Baptist Church. Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. with Rev. Tom Tyer officiating. Interment will follow at the Keystone Heights Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive Keystone Heights 32656. 352- 473-3176. www.jonesgallaghefh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Bonnie Reed
Mrs. Bonnie Lee Reed, 73, of Middleburg died Sunday, June 7, 2026, at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Jacksonville.
Survivors are her husband of 55 years, John Reed Sr.; children, David Reed, John Reed Jr., and Michelle Smith; siblings, Diana, Ron, Karen, Martha, Delores, and Sharon; grandchildren, Sara Reed, Laura Reed, Josh Reed, Evan Smith, Leah Smith, and Jesse Reed; and extended family.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176
John Riggs Jr.
Mr. John Marshall Riggs Jr., 90, a longtime resident of Bradford County, passed away peacefully at Haven Hospice in Gainesville on Friday, June 12, 2026. He was born April 11, 1936, in Fairmont, West Virginia, to John M. and Nancy Ruth (Haught) Riggs Sr. Prior to retirement, he was the superintendent for Florida Gas in Brooker for many years. In his free time, he enjoyed golfing, fishing, and tending to his garden. He was an avid sports fan and especially passionate about Gator football. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, James Riggs, Judith Gump, and Janie Kurtzweil.
Left behind to cherish his memory is his loving and devoted wife of 71 years, Jane (Christie) Riggs of Starke; and their children, John (Kimberly) Riggs of Worthington Springs, Christie Williams of Starke, and Penny (Steve) Lamb of Gainesville; and a host of grandchildren that lovingly called him “Dad-Dad” including, Joy (Mark) Scott, Jay (Jennifer) Williams, Joshua (Crystal) Williams, John M. Riggs IV, Alexander Riggs, twins, Benjamin Riggs and Michael (Bri) Riggs, Rebecca (Collin) Mings, and Kyle Lamb; along with 11 great-grandchildren, and one more on the way.
Mr. Riggs lived a life marked by love, family, and dedication to his work. He was devoted to his family, many friends and had a special bond with the people he worked with at Florida Hydrocarbons.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, June 17, at 10 a.m. at DeWitt C. Jones Chapel of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home with funeral services beginning at 11 a.m. Rev. Bobby Epps will officiate. Interment will follow at Crosby Lake Cemetery.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Kathy Scates
Kathy Elaine Scates, 85, of Keystone Heights died at her home Wednesday, June 2, 2026. She worked for the Florida Department of Corrections for over 30 years. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Charlie “Pink” Foster Jr. and Norbert F. Scates; and sisters, JoAnn and Lee.
Survivors are children, Winona Foster (Jimmy) Zeh, Charlie P. (Joy) Foster, and Margaret “Liz” Foster Addison, one brother; three sisters; and extended family and friends.
Funeral services were held Monday, June 8, at Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home Chapel. Interment followed at Ochwilla Cemetery in Hawthorne.
Arrangements were under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Dr., Keystone Heights 32656. 352- 473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
Debra Wales
Debra Dawn (Rogers) Wales (Glisson), 69, of Lawtey, passed away peacefully Monday, June 8, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. Debra, affectionately known as Debbie, was born April 6, 1957, in Maryland to Harold and JoAnn (Stewart) Glisson. She grew up in Orlando and later built a life in Lawtey, rooted in family, faith, and her farm. She dedicated over 22 years to her career at Arc as the manager of her group home. Taking care of her residents was one of her greatest priorities. She was known for her dedication to work, generosity, laughter, and love. Outside of work, Debbie found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved relaxing on her porch swing, driving her side-by-side through the countryside, watching her horses graze in the pasture, spending time with her dogs, and gathering with family. She especially cherished horse shows and rodeos, trips to the beach, and the peacefulness of country living. Above all else, she was most proud of her son, Zachary; and her grandchildren, Jade and Shaelyn, who brought immeasurable happiness to her life. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and JoAnn Glisson of Graham; and her brother-in-law, John Long of Graham.
She is survived by her son, Zachary Rogers of Starke; grandchildren, Jade Crawford, and Shaelyn Rogers; and great- grandchild, Brynnlyn. She has six siblings, Lyn Long of Graham Victor (Patty) Glisson of Nashville, Tennessee, Pamala Glisson of Graham, Darryl Glisson of Tennessee, and Josh and Linday Glisson of Florida; and many nieces and nephews, and friends who will miss her dearly.
A visitation was held Saturday, June 13, at Archer-Milton Funeral Home, 55 N. Lake Ave., Lake Butler. A funeral service immediately followed. All who knew Debbie were welcome to attend and celebrate her life. Flower donations may be sent to Archer-Milton Funeral Home.
PAID OBITUARY
Wallace Wise
Wallace Allen Wise, 87 of Starke passed away peacefully on Friday, June 12, 2026, at his home. He was born on August 3, 1938, in Starke to Chester and Evelyn (Odom) Wise.
He served in the U.S. Army and witnessed significant moments in history, including his time in Germany when the Berlin Wall was erected. After 25 years, he proudly retired from Camp Blanding. He then went onto a specialized second career as Quality Ammunition Specialist for the Department of Defense. He served in multiple states and seven different countries prior to his final retirement.
In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his loving and much devoted wife of nearly 55 years Linda (Hutcheson) and a brother Louis Wise.
Left behind to cherish his memory is his daughter Julee Tinsler (John) and son Gary Wise (Donna). He was lovingly called “Papa” by his grandchildren Noah Tinsler (Macy), Paxon Wise, and Jacob Wise.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Julee’s residence at 16167 N.E. 15th Place, Starke, FL 32091. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the American Heart Association, an organization that resonates with Wallace’s spirit of giving.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona Street, Starke, FL 32091. (904) 964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
