Roy Decelle Sr.
Mr. Roy Joseph DeCelle, Sr., 73, of Starke passed away Friday, March 27, 2026, at Haven Hospice in Gainesville. He was born July 3, 1952, in Quincy, Massachusetts, to the late Leroy and Catherine (Lyons) DeCelle. He faithfully served his country in the United States Air Force for 21 years, primarily stationed at McDill Air Force Base. He was a proud veteran who served during the Vietnam Conflict as well as Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Following his distinguished military career, he continued to serve his community as a postal driver with the United States Postal Service. His passion for helping others extended far beyond his professional life; he was an active member of several organizations, including Rolling Thunder Chapter 3, ABATE of Florida, American Legion Post #202, AmVets Post #86 in Keystone Heights, and VFW Post #8255 in Middleburg.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 33 years, Carole (Kennedy) DeCelle; four children, Faith DeCelle (Michael) Jolley of Mt. Vernon, Indiane, Roy (Maryann) DeCelle Jr. of Leavenworth, Kansas, Richard (Lesley) Ortiz of Las Cruces, New Mexico, and Jonathan (Sara Rigby) James of Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. He was lovingly called “Pops” by nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Also left behind is Amanda Parryman of Palm Harbor, a special niece who was dear to his heart; and a host of additional family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
A memorial service celebrating his life will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 7, at DeWitt C. Jones Chapel with Pastor Chris Ruggles officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Franciscan Center, 3010 No. Perry Ave., Tampa, FL 33603.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke 32091. 904-964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Oliver Dennis
Oliver “Ollie” Charles Dennis, 58, of Keystone Heights passed away at his home on Friday, July 24, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born April 20, 1968, in Washington, DC, to Dorr and Caroline (White) Dennis. Ollie graduated with the class of 1986 from Keystone Heights High School and pursued a fulfilling career as a mechanic specializing in heating and air. His dedication to his trade was matched only by his love for family, friends, and the joys of life. He was a passionate person who enjoyed various hobbies, including his prize collection of stamps, putting puzzles together, and watching sports, especially cheering on the Florida Gators and Jacksonville Jaguars. His mother, Caroline Dennis, preceded him in death in 2012.
Left behind to cherish his memory is his father Dorr Dennis; and his brothers, Anthony (Stacey) Dennis, all of Keystone Heights, and Hilary (Alda) Dennis of San Francisco. Ollie took great pride in being an uncle to his nieces and nephews: Alexander, Gwendolyn, Penelope, Amelia, William, and Fiona, who will cherish the fond memories of their time together. Also left behind are extended family members and close friends who became family.
A private burial will be held at Keystone Heights following cremation. Family and friends will gather to honor Oliver’s memory and share their love and stories. Details regarding the memorial service will be communicated to those who wish to pay their respects.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 3522-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Richard DeVoe
Richard Jay DeVoe, 81, passed away Friday, July 31, 2026, at North Florida Hospital. He was born in Neenah, Wisconsin on April 6, 1945, to William F. and Theda Holcomb DeVoe. In 1958, the family moved to Miami Springs. He graduated from Hialeah High School, attended Young Harris College (now University) in Young Harris, Georgia and then graduated from Georgia Southern College (now University) in Statesboro, Georgia. Upon graduation, Rik moved to Washington, D.C. and worked in the Senate Dispersing Office. He then moved to Gainesville and worked as a Classification Officer at Lake Butler Reception and Medical Center. After obtaining his insurance license he worked at Maines Insurance Agency and became a Certified Financial Planner until his retirement. He married Barbara Maines on Dec. 19, 1965. They enjoyed over 60 years of marriage. He and Barbara had two children, Richard York DeVoe and his wife Tammy and Karen Michelle DeVoe and her partner William Autio. They have six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren with one on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his beloved aunt and uncle, Clare and Bob Otto.
He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren; along with his sister and brother-in-law, Debi and Chet Carter; his sister-in-law, Harriett Maines; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Services will be held Saturday, Aug. 8, at Archer-Milton Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. with a service following at 11 a.m. Rik will be laid to rest immediately following the service at Dekle Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a contribution to Trinity United Methodist Church, 4000 NW 53rd Ave., Gainesville 32653 or to your favorite charity in Rik’s honor.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve Rik’s family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Alvin Henley
Alvin Everett Henley, 75, also known by his friends and family as “Bulldog”, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at Haven Hospice in Palatka. Born Sept. 6, 1950, Everett was the son of the late Calvin Sr. and Helen Henley. He was a husband, loving father and grandfather, caring brother, and faithful friend whose gentle spirit and kind heart touched the lives of many. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved spending time on the water fishing and could often be found searching for hidden “treasures” with one of his metal detectors. A devoted sports fan, he faithfully cheered on his beloved Florida Gators and the Jacksonville Jaguars, always looking forward to game day. More than anything, Everett’s faith was the foundation of his life. Having accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior, he found great comfort in reading his Bible and treasured the fellowship and encouragement he received during visits from Pastor Gene. His quiet faith and steadfast hope were an inspiration to those who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Calvin Sr. and Helen Henley; brothers, Charles Henley, Calvin Henley, and Steve Henley; and nephew, Justin Hardenbrook.
He leaves behind to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Blanche Henley; his son, Christopher Henley; stepchildren, Marc Rose and Jerry Roebuck; his cherished granddaughter, Chloe; and one great-grandson, Weston. He is also survived by his sisters, Sheila (Sam) Basset, Jeanne Peacock, Marolyn (Dale) Bradley, and Carolyn (Mark) Hardenbrook; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss him greatly.
Although his family grieves his passing, they rejoice in the assurance that Everett is now in the presence of his Lord and Savior. His legacy of faith, love, quiet strength, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A graveside service to honor his life will be held Thursday, Aug. 6, at Crosby Lake Cemetery beginning at 11 a.m. with Brother Gene Bass officiating.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored once again to serve the Henley family during their time of loss. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Michael Hinman
Michael Jack Hinman, 73, of Lawtey passed away peacefully with family and friends by his side, on Monday, July 27, 2026, at Haven Hospice, Lake City. He was born Aug. 23, 1952, in Santa Paula, California, to the late Jack (Jennie) Hinman and Wilma Ferne Boyington. He was raised in Oklahoma and joined the United States Navy right after graduating from Konawa High School in 1970. Mike proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1970 to 1978 and served in the Vietnam War. He began his career with Sheet Metal Local #435 in 1979 and retired in 2007. Since he couldn’t sit still after retirement, he then worked as a corrections officer with Florida Department of Corrections, an installer at Dana Safety Supply, a maintenance worker at Northside Baptist and, one of his favorite jobs, as Archery Coach for Northside Christian Academy. He led a life filled with his favorite things, fishing, hunting, and spending time with his family (especially his grandbabies) and friends. In addition to his parents; he was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Gentry Cooksey; and brother, David Hinman.
Mike is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Connie Creamer Hinman; four beautiful daughters, Missy (Shawn) Waite, Alicia (JJ) Etheridge, Jaime (Scott) Cooksey, and Jessica (Josh) Henry; 10 grandchildren whom he loved beyond measure, Dustin (Brooklyn) Elder, Luke Smith, Lindsy (Anthony) Van Steenkiste, Lexie Paige Etheridge, Alaina (Collin) Slagle, Easton Cooksey, Jett Smith, Kylie Rae Henry, Kamryn Henry, and Isla Waite; great-granddaughter, Lily; and a great-grandson on the way; one brother, Steve (Debi) Hinman; and two sisters, Carol (Stuart) Peek and Janet (Mike) Winters; along with many nieces, nephews, family and friends who will greatly miss him and his crazy antics.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, Aug 8, at 11 a.m. at Northside Baptist Church, 7415 NW CR 225, Starke, with Pastor Chris Davis and Pastor Larry Finley, officiating. Visitation with the family will begin at 10 a.m. until the service begins.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke 32091, 904-964-5757. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com
PAID OBITUARY
Alan Messmore
Alan Lee Messmore of Brooker passed away July 14, 2026, at the age of 91. Alan was born March 30, 1935, in Toledo, Ohio, to Chester Lee Messmore and Florence Cripe Messmore. Growing up, he was very athletic and always active. He played basketball for Miami Edison High School junior varsity and varsity teams. He earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Florida in 1958. After graduation, he served two years in the Army at Fort Belvoir. He later worked as a civil engineer for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Savannah, Georgia, and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in Washington, D.C. Alan married Leslie Annette Green in 1961, and together they raised three children, Anna, Lee, and Laura Lynn. Alan and Annette loved square dancing with their friends on weekends. He also enjoyed listening to classical music. Although he never took music lessons, he had an ear for playing the songs he liked on the piano. His favorite song was “When the Saints Go Marching In.” He continued to foster his love of sports by teaching his children how to play softball and basketball. He coached Lee’s and Laura Lynn’s basketball teams at the Temple Hills Basketball Recreational League in Maryland and also served as a referee for the league. Lee fondly remembers that his dad always gave every team member equal playing time, even those who were not the strongest players. He was also a pitcher for Our Savior Lutheran Church’s softball team in Temple Hills for one year. As a left-handed pitcher, he had an advantage over right-handed batters, and he also played first base. His team went on to win the championship that year. In addition to sports, he enjoyed traveling with his family, especially camping in their pop-up tent camper. Each summer, they visited a different part of the United States, exploring many major national and state parks and traveling from California to New York. He was an excellent swimmer and fisherman and shared those skills with his children. After retiring in July 1988, he and Annette moved to Brooker, and became members of Brooker Baptist Church. An avid card player, Alan played bridge, hearts, and pinochle at a senior citizens’ retirement center in Gainesville. He also became interested in the stock market and regularly read Barron’s and The Wall Street Journal for investment tips. He loved talking about the stock market with anyone who was interested and offering suggestions about good stocks to buy. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Laura Lynn; and his parents, Chester and Florence.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Annette; children, Anna Marie (Jim) Deighton and Leslie Lee (Isabel) Messmore; and grandchildren, Rose Deighton, Katherine Deighton, and Lucas Messmore.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to fulfill Alan’s wish for cremation. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Kenneth Sayers
Kenneth Earl Sayers, beloved husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, in Gainesville, at the age of 90. Born April 11, 1936, in Joliet, Illinois, Kenneth lived a life defined by hard work, service, and quiet generosity. He proudly served his country in the United States Army before building a career in carpentry. He later shared his knowledge and craftsmanship as a Carpentry Instructor at Florida State Prison in Palatka, where he worked until his retirement. He believed in giving back to his community. He was an active member of Keystone Heights Methodist Church, where he belonged to the Men’s Club and faithfully volunteered in the church thrift shop, serving as its cashier for many years. He was also an original member of the Keystone Heights Volunteer Fire Department and volunteered with the local hospice, always willing to lend a helping hand wherever he was needed. He enjoyed spending time outdoors and was happiest when he was building, repairing, or fixing something. If a neighbor needed help, he was often the first to show up with his tools and a smile. In his younger years, he played in the Keystone Heights Men’s Softball League and later volunteered for many years with Keystone Heights Little League Baseball. During retirement, he rarely missed a day at the Keystone Heights Senior Center, where he enjoyed his daily card games with friends. At home, he looked forward to watching classic Westerns, Jeopardy! and Family Feud, simple pleasures that brought him great enjoyment. He was preceded in death by his stepdaughter, Nancy Roberts, who remained a cherished part of their family and was remembered with love.
Above all, Kenneth’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, JoAnne Elizabeth Sayers, whose love and companionship were the foundation of their life together.
He is also survived by his children, Sharon (Larry) Hinds, Roger (April) Sayers, Carol (Eric) Sales Eric; and Michael (Melissa) Sayers; and by his stepchildren, Joyce Pokoy-(Osman) Kurtulus, and Joel (Kari) Roberts. Kenneth was the proud grandfather of nine grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and five step-grandchildren, including Christopher Roberts, whom he and JoAnne lovingly helped raise.
Kenneth will be remembered as a man of integrity, humility, and unwavering dependability. He never sought recognition, preferring instead to let his actions speak for themselves. Whether serving his community, helping a neighbor, or caring for his family, he lived a life defined by kindness, generosity, and quiet strength. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, and in the family and friends who will forever treasure his memory.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, with details to be announced by the family.
PAID OBITUARY
Margaret Sirmons
Margaret Marie Smith Sirmons, 93, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026, at Solaris Healthcare in Lake City, surrounded by love and with her family by her side. Margaret was born May 25, 1933, on a farm in Hanover, Pennsylvania, to the late Ligouri and Bertha (Huff) Smith. Her mother died when she was only 18 months old, so as the baby of the family, her siblings were vital to her upbringing. Her father remarried the late Bernice (Woodring) Smith and gave Margaret the gift of three additional siblings. After surviving the great depression, the family moved to Palatka in 1943. It was there while waitressing at the local diner that she met the love of her life, Elmer Sirmons. They were married July 27, 1950, at St. Monica Catholic Church. She and Elmer had three children during the first years of their marriage, while traveling for Elmer’s work with Southern Bell Telephone Company. In 1957 they settled in Lake City, where they bought their first house for $9,000. Margaret was affectionately referred to as the “neighborhood momma” by the children and their friends. They settled into their days of raising their three teenage children when – surprise! – their fourth child came along. Elmer was in the National Guard and was often gone on duty, leaving her with the primary responsibility for raising the family. Margaret took great pride in being a homemaker, and if there were a Ph.D. for raising children and making a house into a home, she mastered it. In 1972, they moved to Gainesville, where she worshipped at Holy Faith Catholic Church for over 30 years. Her faith and her desire to plant and nurture the seeds of belief in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, was her strongest conviction. She and Elmer owned and operated Buck Bay Marine in Gainesville from 1985-1991. Margaret and Elmer worked tirelessly to build the family business until their retirement in 1991. She enjoyed square dancing, horseback riding, cooking for her family, boating, fishing, riding through the woods, serving on St. Ann’s Guild, participating in the Telephone Pioneers, gardening, visiting the mountains, spoiling her animals, making crafts, and feeding the birds. Most importantly, however, she LOVED her children and grandchildren. Her world truly lit up when her first grandchild was born, being a grandparent brought her immense joy. Six grandchildren followed and then 10 great-grandchildren. Her greatest achievement was being called “Momma,” “Nana,” “Granny,” and “Gee-Gee.” In 2007 her husband of 57 years passed away. Although her world was shattered, she remained strong. To be closer to family, she moved to Starke, where she was a resident for nearly 20 years before moving to Solaris Healthcare in Lake City in 2025, where she battled Alzheimer’s until she received her heavenly healing on Aug. 1. During her time in Starke, she was active in St. Edward Catholic Church and treasured her time with family. She was a force of strength to be reckoned with. The words that best describe her are devoted, selfless, and compassionate. She leaves a void on this Earth that no other could ever possibly fill. We are thankful for having her with us for 93 wonderful years and are comforted that she is finally at rest with Jesus enjoying the love of her mother, father, husband, and other loved ones who passed before her. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; her stepmother; her sisters, Pauline Conrory, Alice Hammond, Catherine Stafford, Grace Byrd, Josephine Stallings; and her brother, John Smith.
She is survived by her siblings, Janie Chapman of Palatka and Thomas Smith of Interlachen; her children, William “Bill” (Kristy) Sirmons, of Milton; Barbara (Dal) McDuffie of Lake City; Robert “Bob” (Vicky) Sirmons of Island Grove; and Deborah “Debbie” (Danny) Parmenter of Starke; her grandchildren, Sondra (Ryan) McKeon, Shelly (Michael) Case, Barry (Kyungsun) Sirmons, Casey (Tony) de Moya, Shane (Shelby) Parmenter, Meaghan (Matt) Church, and Samuel (CeCe) Shuff; great-grandchildren, Kennedy Case, Tony “LT” (Maddie) de Moya, Bryce McKeon, Barrett Case, Rylea McKeon, Harper de Moya, Hayden de Moya, Tinley Parmenter, Adaline Shuff, and Lillian Church; and great-great- grandchildren, Rhett de Moya and McKinley de Moya.
A private Mass of Resurrection will be held for the family on Friday, Aug. 7, at Holy Faith Catholic Church, 747 NW 43rd St., Gainesville. A private interment will follow immediately after at Forest Meadows Cemetery, 4100 NW 39th Ave., Gainesville.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Solaris Healthcare for the love and compassion showed to Margaret while she was in their care, as well as Haven Hospice, and Epiphany Catholic Church for their weekly visits to her. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Margaret’s name to Solaris Healthcare in Lake City.
PAID OBITUARY
Billy Wolfe Jr.
Billy Monroe Wolfe Jr., 74, of Lake Butler and formerly of Keystone Heights as well as San Mateo passed away peacefully Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026, in Palatka. He was born June 13, 1952, in Gainesville, to the late William and Georgia (Stanley) Wolfe Sr. He started his working career as a TV repairman in Palatka, then was hired on with the Florida Highway Patrol as an electronics engineer for the next 35 years until his retirement in 2013. He was a longtime member of First Baptist Church in Keystone Heights, where he found solace in his faith. In his free time, he would often be found fishing or camping. He was also a 43-year Mason, which he was very proud of, as well as being a Shriner helping to do what he could for the children.
Left behind to cherish his memory is his loving and devoted wife of nearly 16 years Denise (Ellis) Wolfe; son, William “Bunk” (Christi) Wolfe III; sisters, Carol (Chandler) Rozier, and Gail (Mike) Acree; and stepchildren, Aaron (Lacey) Coleman and Heather (Charlie) Garman. Also left behind are two nieces; five nephews; two step-granddaughters; one step-grandson; and one step-great-grandson; along with a host of extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 6, at Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Bobby Epps officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the services. Private interment will be at Eilam Cemetery in Melrose.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.Jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
