Akiz Ballack
Akiz Beemal Carmel Ballack, aka Clyde’s, 63, of Orange Park, passed away Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026. He was born in Rio Claro, Trinidad on July 16, 1963, to the late Angus Ballack and Girlie Mahabir Ballack. Akiz spent his early childhood in Barataria, Trinidad, where he attended Barataria Anglican School. In the late 1980s he met his best friend and lifelong companion, Esther Ramdhan. The two were married on July 9, 1991, building a beautiful life and spending 35 devoted years together. After marriage, he joined Esther in the United States. After living in Orlando and Lawtey, they ultimately made their home in Orange Park. He was a dedicated lifelong learner who pursued his education at St. George’s College in Trinidad, later continuing his studies at Santa Fe College and Florida State College at Jacksonville. He was a driven, natural entrepreneur with a strong work ethic. He began his career in Trinidad at the Port Authority and Albrosco before establishing himself in Florida as a successful business owner. He proudly owned and operated Econo Carpet & Upholstery Care in Jacksonville, as well as Ballack LLC, dba Clyde’s Tire and Brake, with locations in Starke and Waldo. Above all his achievements, Akiz was a simple, generous man who took immense pride in being a husband, father and grandfather, working tirelessly to serve as the ultimate provider for those he loved. He possessed a warm spirit, a curious mind, and a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. He loved engaging in meaningful conversations, whether discussing world affairs, politics, and history, or simply connecting with customers and listening to others’ stories. He enjoyed scenic back-road drives, was drawn to the tranquility of water, the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the joy of going on cruises. At home, he could often be found reading the newspaper, playing cricket, scouting for tires, or listening to the radio, especially Christian and Christmas music, on his boombox and iPad. Most of all, Akiz cherished time spent with his family, and he loved creating everlasting memories. He took quiet joy in watching family gatherings unfold, enjoying a caramel candy bar, or stopping by Carl’s for his signature ice cream order, one scoop of chocolate and one scoop of vanilla on a waffle cone. Akiz was truly a treasure, and his impact was felt by all those he surrounded. He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his strong entrepreneurial spirit, and the kindness he showed to everyone he met. He was preceded in death by his parents; maternal grandparents, Rosie and Maha Maraj; and paternal grandparents, Dennis and Catherine Ballack.
Akiz leaves behind his loving wife of 35 years, Esther Ballack of Orange Park; children, Dr. David Adrian Ballack of Orange Park and Abbigail Amira Ballack-Patel and Dr. Anushil S Patel of Oviedo; grandchildren, Aadhya Layla Patel and Nikhil Benny Patel; sisters, Leah Francis of Trinidad, Lynette (Robin) Seepersad of Queens, New York, Lydia (Gerrad) Chung of Trinidad, and Laura Lea Ballack of Trinidad; along with several extended family members and dear friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, Oct. 3, at 11 a.m. at Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel. His family will receive friends for visitation on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at the funeral home chapel.
Akiz’s arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke, 904-964-5757. Please visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to share condolences and support the family during this difficult time.
PAID OBITUARY
Ryan Gaskins
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ryan Ashley Gaskins, 46, who left us on Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026, following a brief illness. Born July 7, 1980, in Gainesville, Ryan was a cherished son, loving father, and devoted friend to many. He was a proud member of the Bradford High School Class of 1998 and for the past 30 years, he dedicated his life to the family business, Bradford Garbage Service, working tirelessly as a driver. Beyond his professional life, he was known for his fun-loving spirit and infectious laughter. He had a huge love for animals and was often seen lending a helping hand to those in need and showing compassion to all creatures great and small. His generous heart and willingness to help others will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Ryan leaves behind his father, Randall (Jennefer) Gaskins of Starke; his mother, Suzan (Benny) Ricks of St. Augustine; his daughters, Journie and Sumerlyn Gaskins of Starke; his brother, Adam (Laura Lynn) Gaskins of Starke; his sister, April (Rob) Russell of St. Augustine; paternal grandfather, Arthur (Hilma) Gaskins of Lawtey; and maternal grandmother, Ann Macy of Kingsley Lake.
A celebration of life service will be held Sunday, Oct. 4, from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. at the Charley E. Johns Conference Center, 1610 N. Temple Ave., Starke, 32091. Though Ryan’s passing leaves a void in the lives of many, his spirit will live on in our hearts. We will always remember the joy he brought into the lives of those around him.
Arrangements are with Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke, 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Kenny Hall
Kenneth David “Kenny” Hall died Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026, in Keystone Heights. Born April 24, 1984, in Houston, Texas, “Kenny” built a life rooted in family, work, and the activities he shared with those closest to him. He attended New Castle Chrysler High and later served in the United States Army. In time, he founded KLC’s Floors & More, a business that became an important part of his life. His brother, Justin Hall, later joined him in that work, and together they shared that chapter of the business.
Kenny is survived by his parents, Diana Simpson and David Hall, both of New Castle, Indiana; his children, Cassidy Hall and Colton Hall of Keystone Heights; his siblings, Stephanie Gallo (John) of Missouri, Sean (Jessica) Hall and Justin Hall of Keystone Heights, and Kim Moyer and Jeni Cooke of Indiana; and his nieces and nephews, Amaya Hall, Kaylee Hall, Avery Hall, Brayden Hall, Amanda Geist and Channing Adgurson. He especially valued time with his family and his cats. Among the moments that meant the most to him were playing the guitar with his son, Colton, and his nephew, Brayden, as well as hiking and hunting with Colton. He also cherished the bond he shared with his daughter, Cassidy Hall, whom he called his “mini me.” Kenny Hall will be remembered for a life centered on family, shared interests, and the work he created with his own hands. His memory remains with his children, parents, siblings, nieces and nephews, and all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at KLC’s Floors and More on Saturday, Oct. 3, at 12 p.m.
PAID OBITUARY
T.J. McCutchen
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of T.J. McCutchen, 77, on Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026, at North Florida Regional Hospital in Gainesville. He attended the schools of Bradford County and was a member of Greater Bethlehem Freewill Baptist Church in Starke. He worked as a supervisor at SMI Joist, Starke. He loved the Lord, his family and his fellowman. He was a true pillar of the community.
Survivors are his children, Allison Adkins, Sharon (Donnie) Risby, Thomas (Dora) McCutchen, Takeina (Terrence) McCutchen, and Charlette Mendez; three siblings, L.C. McCutchen, Mamie Leola “Dollie” (Simon) Mitchell, and Felicia Cohens; 10 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and extended family and friends.
The viewing will be at Haile Funeral Home, 802 Oak St., Starke on Friday, Oct. 2 at 3 p.m. The Cortege will form at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3 at the residence of Mr. McCutchen, 1434 Grove St., Starke. Services will be on Saturday, Oct. 3, at 1 p.m. at Greater Bethlehem Freewill Baptist Church, 1103 Ash St., Starke. Services will be officiated by Pastor Michael McDuffie. Mr. McCutchen will be laid to rest at Bethlehem Freewill Memorial Garden at the church.
Professional services were provided to the McCutchen family by Haile Funeral Home, 802 Oak St., Starke. 904-964-7905.
PAID OBITUARY
Sylvia Quiette
Sylvia M. Quiette, 85, died Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026, at Haven Hospice in Gainesville. She was married to her husband, James William Quiette, for 44 years. Three sisters and one brother preceded her in death.
Survivors are daughters, Patricia Starling and Sandra Ledger; son, James Quiette; and sisters, Mary Zulawski, Phyllis Sambora, and Pauline Jentz.
Arrangements are in the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St, Starke 32091. 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
