Betty Blackburn
Betty Bryant Blackburn, 92, of Starke passed away peacefully on Friday, Aug. 7, 2026. She was born in Winterville, Georgia, on Jan. 23, 1934, to the late Roy and Leah Hall Bryant. As a young girl, she relocated with her family to Starke, where she remained a lifelong resident. She married her best friend, William “Bill” Blackburn. Together, they built a life centered on faith and family, sharing 60 years of marriage alongside their beloved son, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Betty and Bill were longtime members of Pine Level Baptist Church, where Betty loved serving alongside her husband and church family. She was a hardworking and devoted woman who spent her life loving and caring for her family. One of her first jobs was at Big Dad’s Sewing Factory in Starke. She later worked as a counselor at Sunland in Gainesville and finished her career at Vital Industries in Gainesville, where she helped build computer parts before retiring. Even while working her day jobs, she continued to help her family on the farm, working alongside them in their chicken business. Betty cherished every moment spent with those she loved and embraced life’s simple pleasures, whether traveling with family and friends or simply making memories with the people who meant the most to her. Her greatest joy, however, was being a ‘Meme.’ Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were truly her pride and joy. To know Betty was to love her. Her kindness, love, and devotion to her family will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed and forever loved. She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Leah Bryant; and her loving husband, Bill Blackburn.
Betty leaves behind a legacy of love in her son, Frankie (Sheila) Blackburn; her brother, Roy (Linda) Bryant; sisters, Linda (Thad) Smith and Dorothy “Dot” (Dennis) Kitchens; grandchildren, Marie (Steven) Tusa, Josh (Melanie) Blackburn, and Bryan (Amy) Blackburn; and great-grandchildren, Kayla (Brady) Mehlenbacher, Abby, Lacy, and Levi Blackburn. She is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews and extended family each of whom held a special place in her heart.
A celebration of life will be held Thursday, Aug. 13 at 11 a.m. at Pine Level Baptist Church, with Pastor Mark Ogle and Terry Williamson officiating. Betty’s family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday, Aug. 13 from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at the church. Interment will follow at Crosby Lake Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Bill.
Her arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, 14397 US Hwy 301 S, Starke 32091, 904-964-5757.
Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family’s guest book.
PAID OBITUARY
Randy Crawford
Randy Eugene Crawford, 65, of Starke died Friday, July 10, 2026, in Starke. He was born Oct. 19, 1960, in Starke. He was preceded in death by half-sisters, Diane Rhoden and Denise Dries; and half-brother, Danny Deets.
Survivors are his son, Alan Crawford; daughter, Pamela Crawford; sister, Darlene Stokley (Robert); brother, Ronnie (Eva) Crawford; sister, Donna Sullivan; and extended family.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no funeral or memorial services held at this time.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352- 473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
Donald Frees
Donald Wayne Frees, 73, died Sunday, July 26. 2026, in Palatka. He was born on Jan. 21, 1953, in Jacksonville. He was a dedicated employee of the Bradford County Road Department for 42 years.
Survivors are his wife, Claudette Frees; daughter, Jennifer Frees; two grandchildren; and sisters, Vicki Powell and Kathy Whitehead.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgalllagherfh.com
Stephen Hendricks
With hearts full of both sorrow and hope, we announce that Stephen John Hendricks entered into the presence of his Savior on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026, following a courageous and grace-filled battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive and incurable brain cancer diagnosed in late May. Though his earthly journey came sooner than any of us wished, we find comfort in God’s promise that “to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8). Stephen was born on April 9, 1953, to the late Bryan and Jeanette Hendricks and was a proud lifelong resident of Union County. As a young man, he married the love of his life, JoAnn, and together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and hard work. Earlier this year they celebrated 53 years of marriage, creating a legacy of unwavering devotion and partnership. While working nights at AT&T for more than 20 years, Stephen farmed during the day alongside JoAnn in Providence. Together they later established the area’s first sod business, serving countless customers through the years. His strong work ethic, determination, and servant’s heart earned the respect of everyone who knew him. He continued operating the family business until his retirement a few years ago. More than anything, he loved the Lord. His relationship with Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life. He faithfully worshiped and served at Lake Butler Church of Christ throughout most of his life and, for the past 14 years, he became a devoted member of Westside Baptist Church in Gainesville, where he found great joy in the fellowship of believers. He often reminded those around him that God’s grace was sufficient, and today his faith has become sight.
His greatest earthly joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, a loving grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife, JoAnn Hendricks; his daughter, Stephanie (Danny) Christmas; and his son, Jason (Angie) Hendricks. He was the proud “Papa” to Elizabeth, Seth (Haley), Gage (Halle), Jordan (Kadi), Macy, Evan, and Molly, each of whom brought immeasurable joy to his life. He also leaves behind his treasured great-granddaughters, Harper and Olivia, and looked forward with excitement to welcoming another great-grandchild later this year. He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings, Linda (Philip) Johns and Joe (Debbie) Hendricks; along with countless nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and church family. He was immensely proud of his family heritage and often spoke with gratitude of his grandparents, whose legacy of family continues through the generations.
Those who knew him will remember his large personality, his gift for storytelling, and his ability to strike up a conversation with just about anyone. He never met a stranger and could turn an ordinary moment into a memorable story, often leaving those around him laughing or reflecting on life’s lessons. He was exceptionally intelligent, endlessly curious, and possessed an incredible ability to solve problems and understand how things worked. He was, above all else, a hardworking man. He poured himself into providing for his family and building a life through farming and entrepreneurship. He always aspired to grow his business into something even greater, constantly looking for the next opportunity or idea. While he would probably tell you he never became the businessman he hoped to be, those who loved him knew that his true success could never be measured by accomplishments. His wealth was found in the family he cherished and the friendships he cultivated.
While we grieve his absence, we do not grieve without hope. As Jesus promised in John 11:25, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” Stephen placed his trust completely in that promise, and today he is healed, whole, and rejoicing in the presence of his Savior.
Family and friends were invited to celebrate his life and the hope he found in Christ. A time of visitation was held Tuesday, Aug. 11, at Archer-Milton Funeral Home. A funeral service followed.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to once again serve the Hendricks family. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Barbara Hutcheson
Barbara Hutcheson, 92, passed away Saturday, July 18, 2026 at the home of her son in Tennessee. Born on Jan. 28, 1934, she was the beloved wife of the late Charles Hutcheson. Together, they built a life centered on family, faith and service. Barbara formed strong ties in the Starke community, through her work, her volunteer activities and through her church. Barbara’s faith was an important part of her life. She was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Starke, where she worshiped regularly and formed many lasting friendships. She was a retired nurse whose caring spirit continued long after her career ended. Friends and loved ones often turned to her with medical questions or concerns. She was always willing to listen and share her knowledge.
Barbara is survived by her son, Chuck (Rosa) Hutcheson; grandchildren, Beth (Kevin) Thornton and Mark Hutcheson; sister Nancy (Larry) Horton; and many extended family members and dear friends.
A memorial service will be held at the First Baptist Church of Starke on Saturday, Aug. 15 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the First Baptist Church “Grow into the Future” fund.
PAID OBITUARY
Charlene Martin
Mrs. Charlene Cowart Martin, 84, of Athens, Tennessee was called home to heaven on Sunday, Aug 2, 2026. She passed away at home surrounded by family and friends following a long period of various illnesses. Born April 23, 1942, in Heilbron Springs to the late Charlie Cowart and Dessie Nix Cowart, she graduated from Bradford High School in 1960. She always had a strong faith in the Lord, loved working in the church and was a very faithful and supportive wife and mother. She is greatly missed. She was preceded in death by her parents; and brothers, Tony, A.J., Huey and Ernest.
She is survived by her husband Ralph; her brother, Charles (Laura); her children, Daniel, Karen (Tim) Fike, Sharon (Robert ‘Bob’) Sykes, and Esther (Matthew) Tarver; six grandchildren; and one great grandson.
Plans for memorial services are pending at present.
PAID OBITUARY
Frank Mikell Jr.
Mr. Franklin “Frank” James Mikell Jr., 79, of Melrose passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at Oak Hammock in Gainesville. He was born Dec. 16, 1946, in Jacksonville, to the late Franklin and Joyce (Godwin) Mikell. As a child he enjoyed riding his horse, Gypsy, playing softball, hunting and fishing. He attended Cedar Creek Baptist Church with his parents and was baptized at 10 years old. Frank graduated from Paxon High School in 1964. On Aug. 26, 1966, he married his high school sweetheart, Marie Silas. It would be years later at the same church that Frank and Marie first heard a missionary speak and felt called to full-time service. At 21, he went to work as a fireman for the Jacksonville Fire Department and within a year he was certified as one of the first “paramedics” in the state of Florida. He continued to work at the Fire Department for 9.5 years. On Oct. 3, 1975, he attained his bachelor’s degree in nursing. In 1975, Frank and the family moved to Keystone Heights, and he worked at UF Shands in Gainesville. He was the supervisor over the dialysis unit. He and his family began attending Friendship Bible Church. During their time in Keystone, they built and ran a FRM feed store with his parents just north of town past Gasline Road. Frank and Marie saw and heard reports from many missionaries and after much prayer and answers from the Bible, in 1980, God called Frank and Marie to Toccoa Falls College. They graduated in 1983. From there, they traveled to San Jose, Costa Rica to attend language school and on Aug. 4, 1984, they landed in Quito, Ecuador, where they would spend 17 years ministering in various positions. Frank worked as an RN in the Hospital Vozandes in Quito, went on rural caravans and was also the Director of Community Development as well as eventually the Field Director for the mission HCJB. In 2000, Frank and Marie moved back to Lake Wales, continuing ministering with HCJB and also working with PALM ministries along with their friends, Art and Barbara Patray. They eventually moved back to the Keystone Heights area, continuing work in the medical field including at HAVEN Hospice, North Florida Rehab (risk care manager) in Gainesville and Windsor Manor in Starke. He was a longtime member of Trinity Baptist Church in Keystone Heights and recently served as a Deacon. He enjoyed woodworking and working on church and community projects, especially projects that helped others in need, including widows. He spent many hours volunteering and working at Trinity Baptist Church, where he worked as the groundskeeper for several years. He lived a life filled with service, love and dedication to his family and community. He will be deeply missed by his family, church family and community.
Frank is survived by his lovely wife, Marie Mikell, of nearly 60 years. Together they raised two children, Jamee Mikell of Jacksonville, and Jodi Geiger of Hawthorne. He was a proud “Grandaddy” to Ryan (Sophia) Miller, Emma (Matthew) Crawford, Ella (Brandon) Kestner, and Josie (Taylor) Huntley; and an amazing great-grandfather to Makenna Miller, Maciah Miller, Tobias Miller, and another Miller baby due in September, Susie Crawford, Raleigh Crawford, Presley Kestner and Wesley Kestner. He was loved by his family and a true pillar of strength for his family and community. His legacy of kindness, a desire to help others and serving God will live on for generations.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to PALM Missionary Ministries at palmministries.com or to the Trinity Baptist Church Benevolence Fund.
www.trinitybaptistchurchbc.org
Memorial services will be held at Trinity Baptist Church, 3716 SR 21, Keystone Heights, 32656 at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 22, with Pastor Brandon Denmark, Pastor Scott Stanland and Pastor James Peoples officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 a.m.
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
Tracey Raulerson
Tracey Melissa Raulerson, 61, of Keystone Heights died Sunday, August 9, 2026.
Survivors are daughters, Stephanie (Lee) Raulerson and Krystin Raulerson; her father, Darryl Deetz; and sister, Toni Rice; her partner, Tonya Hitchcock; and extended family.
A celebration of life will be held Friday, Aug. 14, at 1 p.m. at West Shores Baptist Church.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176 www.jonesgallagherfh.com
Joseph Stucky
Mr. Joseph Herbert “Herb” Stucky, 79, of Keystone Heights passed away Monday July 27, 2026, at home following a long battle with mesothelioma. He entered this world on Sept. 28, 1946, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Samuel and Mary (Cassells) Stucky. Herb was a member of Cross Church and a veteran of the United States Navy. Prior to retirement, he served as the minister of music at Parkview Baptist Church of Lake City and First Baptist Church of Starke and ended his career as minister of music at First Baptist Church of Branford. He enjoyed playing the trumpet and watching his grandchildren playing sports and was a Florida State Seminole fan.
Survivors are his wife of 58 years, Sharon (Mohr) Stucky of Keystone Heights; children, Cheryl Jacques of Lakeland, Brenda (William) Nettles of Winter Haven, Matthew (Kim) Stucky of Starke; and Jennifer Stucky of Fort White; He was lovingly called “Papa” by his grandchildren, Amber (Grant) Von Leue; Justin Kent, Luke (Abbigale) Stucky, Joseph Alexander Stucky, and Eden Stucky; and sister, Carol (Steve) Sinclair of Michigan. Also left are his great-grandchildren, Deyahnna Von Leue Daniel Von Leue, and Delilah Von Leue.
A celebration of life service will be held at Cross Church on Saturday, Aug. 15, at 11 a.m. with a family visitation from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. Interment will be private at Crosby Lake Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to World Vision www.worldvision.org/donate
Arrangements are with Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke, 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Paul Thomas
Paul Thomas, 76, passed away peacefully at his home Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026. He was born on Aug. 22, 1949, in White Springs, to R.D. and Gertrude Brannen Thomas. Paul dedicated 20 years of service as a mechanic for the Columbia County School System, where he was known for his strong work ethic and ability to fix just about anything. Outside of work, he found his greatest joy farming and caring for his goats and chickens. He was preceded in death by his parents, R.D. and Gertrude Brannon Thomas; his daughter, Michelle Thomas, brothers, John, Robert, and Chris Thomas; and sister, Juanita Pridgen.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Patricia “Patty” Thomas; daughters, Stacy Thomas, Lynn (Donnie) Thomas, and Lori (Scott) Thomas; his beloved grandchildren, Taylor, Tyler, Jackson, and Jaden; his sister, Mary Selgas; and brother, William Thomas.
Paul will be remembered for his quiet strength, his love for his family, and the simple life he cherished. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
A service to honor his life was held Monday, Aug. 10, at Archer-Milton Funeral Home. The family received friends for a visitation prior to the funeral. Paul was laid to rest immediately following the service at Elzey Chapel Cemetery.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve Paul’s family during this time of loss. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Gage Williams
Gage Riley Williams, 18, of Hampton passed away on Friday, July 31, 2026. He was born in Gainesville on Jan. 13, 2008, to his loving parents, Jacob John Williams and Samantha Truman. Gage was raised in Keystone Heights, and was currently attending Florida Virtual School, preparing to graduate with the Class of 2027. From a young age, he developed a deep love for mechanics, a passion passed down to him by his father. Naturally gifted with his hands, he loved tinkering with anything that had a motor. In addition to his studies, he worked with his mother at LMB Land Clearing in Green Cove Springs as an off-road dump truck driver. In his free time, he was happiest out in the open air, riding ATVs and spending hours turning wrenches on vehicles and his four-wheelers. Gage was deeply loved by his family and friends, and his presence and fun-loving spirit will be forever missed by all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Kenneth Truman and Vicki Brown.
He is survived by his loving parents, Jacob John Williams of Keystone Heights; mother, Samantha Truman of Hampton; sisters, Brianna Williams, Hadley Moody, and Maria Mynster; brother, Christopher Truman; and paternal grandparents, Thomas (Mary) Williams and Sharon Whitehead; along with several extended family members and dear friends.
Gage’s family will celebrate his precious life Friday, Aug. 21, at 3 p.m. at Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke.
His 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 to sign the family’s guest book.
PAID OBITUARY
