Obituaries — Nov. 10, 2026

Richard Bakker

Richard William Bakker of Keystone Heights was born on Aug. 12, 1971, and died Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026.

Harold Bishop III

Harold Arthur “Bish” Bishop III, 80, of Starke passed away Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Bish was a lifelong resident of the Starke and Kingsley Lake communities. A 1964 graduate of Bradford High School, he played collegiate golf at St. Johns Community College and the University of Florida before transferring to and graduating from Florida State University, where he earned a degree in Physical Education. An accomplished golfer, he was widely recognized throughout North Florida for his achievements, including qualifying three times for the National Public Links Championship. He also served as a golf professional at several area courses, sharing his knowledge and passion for the game with generations of golfers. Bish was also a respected, local businessman who owned and operated the Sears Catalog Store in Starke for many years. In later years, he worked at North Florida Technical College, where he taught and mentored students in the dropout-prevention program. An avid hunter and fisherman, he loved the outdoors and spending time at his home on Kingsley Lake. Above all, he was a devoted husband, Dad, and Gramps who took tremendous pride in his family and their accomplishments. He was a member of Kingsley Lake Baptist Church throughout his adult life. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold “Buddy” Bishop Jr. and Lillian Bishop.

Bish is survived by his wife of 58 years, Wanda Williams Bishop; his children, Bo (Shari) Bishop, Link (Erika) Bishop, Brad Bishop, and Bonnie Bishop (Matt) King; and seven grandchildren, Peyton, Chloe, Jack, Cooper, Brock, Lily, and Liam.

Services will be held Friday, Nov. 13, at Kingsley Lake Baptist Church. Visitation will begin at 12:30 p.m., followed by funeral services at 1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Kingsley Lake Baptist Church building fund.

Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke 32091. 904- 964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com

PAID OBITUARY

Alphonso Blye

Alphonso Harold “Chopper” Blye, 74, of Starke transitioned from this life into his eternal resting place on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, at Haven Hospice- Gainesville. He was born Wednesday, Dec. 22, 1951, in Gainesville to Eugene D. Blye Sr. and Gladys Snell-Blye. Affectionately known as “Choppa” by his beloved family and friends, he lived a life marked by quiet strength, dedication, service, and a genuine appreciation for the simple joys of life. Alphonso received his early education in the Pinellas County School System before transitioning to Bradford County, where he continued his educational journey and graduated from high school. Following graduation, he answered the honorable call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. Through his military service, he demonstrated courage, commitment, and patriotism, proudly earning the distinguished title of United States Army Veteran. In addition to his parents, he was preceded into eternal rest by his daughter, Ashleey E. Colston-Blye; sister, Wilahmena Blye; and brother, Raymond M. Blye Sr.

Alphonso leaves to cherish his many memories: daughter, Sharon Blye; son, Aaron Dewayne (Wendy) Blye; brothers, Eugene D. Blye Jr. and Tyrone Blye; granddaughter, Adaiah L. Williams Blye; daughter-in-law, Tanzania Williams; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, extended family and friends.

The Blye family will receive extended family and friends from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, at Greater Bethlehem Freewill Baptist Church, 1103 Ash St., Starke, 32091. The Homegoing Celebration will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at Greater Bethlehem Freewill Baptist Church. The burial will take place at Bob Love Cemetery, Pleasant Grove.

Arrangements are in the professional care of Coleman’s Mortuary Family.

PAID OBITUARY

Joseph Bush

Joseph Franklin Bush, 53, passed away Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026. He was born Aug. 9, 1973, in Lake City to Conley Joseph Bush and Mary Alice Sellers Bush. He attended Bradford High School. Joseph was a man who enjoyed the simple things in life, especially spending time outdoors with his best friend (dog), Chevy. He loved fishing and hunting and had a natural interest in anything mechanical. Whether he was working on something that needed fixing or enjoying a quiet day outdoors, Joseph found happiness in doing the things he loved. Above all else, Joseph loved his family. He treasured the special bond he shared with his daughters and grandchildren, and the memories they made together will remain a lasting part of his legacy. His presence in their lives and the love they shared will never be forgotten. Joseph was preceded in death by his father, Conley Joseph Bush; uncle, Horace Sellers; and his grandparents.

He is survived by his mother, Mary Alice Sellers Bush; his daughters, Morgan (Corey) Bush of Starke, and Hailey (Jared) Harrison of Hawthorne; his sister, Sharon (Greg) Carlisle of Green Cove Springs; his cherished grandchildren, Coleston Thornton, Jensen Harrison, Elena Harrison, and Kensley Thornton; nephew, Steven Hutchins; nieces, Nicole Ownby, Jamie Prendes, and Julia Henry; the mother of his children, Sheila Bush; along with many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, great-nephews;  his loving companion of 20 years, Kimberley Clemons; and extended family members, and dear friends who will miss him dearly.

Joseph will be remembered for his love of the outdoors, his ability to work with his hands, and the special place he held in the hearts of those closest to him. Though his time here was far too short, the love he shared and the memories he leaves behind will continue to live on through his family and all those fortunate enough to have known him.

A celebration of Frank’s Life will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026, at Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel at 2 p.m., with Rev. Randall Griffis Jr officiating. The family will receive visitors at 1 p.m.

The arrangements were under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services & Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, 14397 U.S. Highway 301 S., Starke 32091. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family’s guestbook

PAID OBITUARY

Sarah Campbell

Mrs. Sarah Lynn Campbell, 42, passed away suddenly at her residence on Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026. She was born in Gainesville to Stephen Hoffman and Jennifer Padgett Hoffman of Starke. She was a homemaker and loved quilting.

She is survived by her father and mother: her husband, William Campbell of Homerville; three sons, Logan Campbell, Lucais Campbell and Levi Campbell of Homerville; and several other relatives.

Memorialization will be by cremation with a Celebration of Life held Saturday, Nov. 21, at 1 p.m. at Bayless Highway Baptist Church, Starke.

Ross Chandler

Ross Chandler, 75, was born and raised in Starke. He passed on to eternal rest on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026. He was the Senior Pastor of True Vine Outreach Ministry, Starke. He was employed with Gilman Paper Company for several years until retirement. He was the longest serving Bradford County Commissioner, District 1, for 24 years.

Survivors include his beloved and devoted wife, Velma M. Chandler; son, Ross Donesian Chandler; daughter, Coyia D. Chandler; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren, five brothers; five sisters; and many other relatives, godchildren and friends.

A wake with public viewing took place Wednesday, Nov. 11. Celebration services will take place Thursday, Nov. 12, at 11 a.m. All services will be held at True Vine Outreach Ministry, 422 N. Saint Clair St., Starke. Interment will be at Odd Fellow Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity or organization. Live streaming available at tvom.sermon.net

Haile Funeral Home, 802 N. Oak St., Starke, 904-964-7905 is honored to provide services and support to the Chandler family at this time.

PAID OBITUARY

Rosa Desue

Rosa Beatrice Desue, 77, a native of Starke who lived in Tampa and was the daughter of the late Leo Sr. and Beatrice Tyson-DeSue, submitted to the Will of God on Sunday, Oct.18, 2026 while at Tampa General Hospital. A 1967 graduate of RJE High School, Starke, she later attended Bethune-Cookman College (now University), where she pursued her Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice.  She was an underwriter with Metropolitan Life Insurance Company for many years before retiring.  She was very active in evangelism and teaching and Senior Ministries at New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church and Rivers of Life Change Ministries.

Left to continue to honor her legacy are her children, Trellis A. Thomas, Letesia M. (Pastor William) Nettles Sr., Curtis H. Thomas III and Kendrick T. (Tania) Thomas; brother, Damon DeSue Sr.; sister, Issibelle Smith; grandchildren, Ashley Foxworth, Erika Williams, Lekesia Nettles King, Tyree Jones, Alyssa (Michael) Powell, Briana Nettles, Kamilah Thomas, William Nettles II and Dailen Thomas; great-grandchildren, Jamal, Jamel, Tristen, Christopher “C.J.”, Jordan, Journey, Lyric, Nova, Niea, TiNiyah, Tyree’ Jr. and Armani.

Initial arrangements are entrusted to Aikens Funeral Home, 2708 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Tampa, where Ms. DeSue was viewed on Friday, Nov. 6. The Homegoing Celebration was held on Saturday, Nov. 7, at Pleasant Grove Community Church, Starke, where Pastor Carl Tyson Jr. is pastor, with her son-in-law, Pastor William G. Nettles (Life Changers Ministries/Huntsville, AL), bringing words of encouragement.      On Saturday, Nov. 7, Ms. DeSue was viewed at the church one hour prior to the service. The burial followed at DeSue Family Cemetery, Starke.

Final arrangements were entrusted to Duncan Brothers’ Funeral Home, 428 N.W. Eighth St., Gainesville.

PAID OBITUARY

Norman Easley

Norman Easley, AKA Beaglehound, passed away Monday, Oct. 26, 2026.

A funeral service will be held at Oddfellow Cemetery, Old Steel Mill Road, Lincoln City, on Saturday, Nov. 14, at 2 p.m.

Services are under the direction of Casey Myers, Love and Grace Funeral Home, Sunrise. 

Dorothy Fagan

Dorothy Tison Fagan, 101, of Gainesville died Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, at Haven Hospice Care Center. Dorothy was especially proud of her “pioneer” family who moved to Alachua County in 1822, first to Evinston, and then to Gainesville.  She liked to say that she began her life on Magnolia Street (her childhood home now has a historical marker) and will leave on Magnolia Street, her gravesite location at Evergreen Cemetery. She was married for 57 years to Osee Robert Fagan, whom she met at the First Baptist Church.  She called Gainesville home her entire life.  Her hobbies included gardening, sewing, upholstering, genealogy, and birding.  She raised worms for her birds, hand feeding several wrens.  She and Osee enjoyed fishing and bird watching in Cedar Key as well as traveling.

Dorothy is survived by her four children, Lynn (William “Bear”) Bryan, Laurie Jennings, Osee Robert “Rob” Fagan Jr. and Martha Lee Fagan (Steve Holder). She has many beloved grandchildren, great- grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

The family wishes to express profound gratitude to the workers who cared for mom at the Village in Gainesville. Faithful caregivers Garcia Reese and Youlanda Grundy have become like family because of their dedicated service and devotion to Dorothy.

A private, family graveside memorial service is being held at Evergreen Cemetery in Gainesville. Memorials or donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Gainesville, E.T. York Hospice Care Center of Gainesville or Alachua County Audubon Society. To read the full obituary, please visit her memorial page at Obituaries – Milam Funeral & Cremation Services.

PAID OBITUARY

June Haddock

June Johnson Haddock, 97, of Bowling Green passed away Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026, at Christian Health Care. She was a daughter of the late Daniel Webster Johnson and Essie Minton Johnson and was preceded in death by her son, Guy Haddock; and daughter, Sheila Haddock.  June had been a telephone operator technician with Bell South and was very active in Hampton Baptist Church in Florida, where she loved teaching Bible School. She was a member of the AT&T Pioneers, a community service organization. As a native of Florida, she loved going to the beach and traveling. She was known to be very independent and pictured herself as a true working woman.

Survivors include her seven grandchildren, Esther Cline, Rachel Taylor, Sarah Little, Miriam Brant, Marion Finch, Susan Roberts and Kevin Roberts; she had 12 great- grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren; also surviving is her daughter-in-law, Dorothy Haddock.

A private, graveside service was held Friday, Nov. 6, at Thacker Spann Cemetery at Mt. Union General Baptist Church. Johnson Vaughn Phelps Funeral Home was entrusted with the arrangements.

PAID OBITUARY

Sonny Lawson

Marvin L. “Sonny” Lawson, 87, passed away in Starke, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026. Born in Auburndale, Sonny spent 80 years in Starke with his family in their farmhouse, where they raised farm animals and made a lifetime of memories. During his working years, he was employed as an apprentice-helper at Lawson Paint and Body Shop, where he worked alongside his brother, David. He loved riding horses, especially his favorite horse, Pal. He would ride through the woods to Crosby’s Store to get snacks and a Coke. He also proudly rode Pal in the Starke Christmas parades, later riding a tall double bicycle, and just last year, his decorated side-by-side. Sonny’s love for his community and its traditions never faded. He dearly loved his church, Madison Street Baptist Church, where he was the last active charter member from 1957. He spent many years working with children in Sunday School and Awanas, as he was always a kid at heart. His 77th birthday was celebrated at the church with jump houses for all the church children to enjoy. He loved local sports. He was a Tornado and Gator fan from top to bottom, and he faithfully served on the chain gang for both Bradford High School and Bradford Middle School for more than 30 years, becoming a familiar and appreciated presence in the community. Sonny was very well loved by all who knew him. Known for his good sense of humor and young-at-heart spirit, he had a way of bringing joy to those around him. He will be remembered for his love of family, church, children, sports, and the community he called home for so many years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin Lawson and Sarah Welch; his older sister, Pamela (Guy) Dyal; his brothers, Henry Lawson and David Lawson; and his sister, Sally Groves.

He is survived by his sisters-in-law, Patricia Lawson and Janice Lawson; his brother-in-law, Wayne Groves; 12 nieces and nephews; and multiple great-nieces and great-nephews.

Sonny leaves behind a lifetime of memories and many people who will forever cherish his friendship, laughter, and the joy he brought to their lives. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bradford Tornadoes Touchdown Club, Inc. or the Children’s Ministry at Madison Street Baptist Church.

A viewing for family and friends will be held at Madison Street Baptist Church, 900 W Madison St., Starke 32091, on Thursday, Nov. 12, at 10 a.m., with funeral services beginning at 11 a.m. Interment will take place at Crosby Lake Cemetery immediately following chapel services.

Arrangements are in the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 Nona Street, Starke, 904-964-6200, www.jonesgallagherfh.com.

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PAID OBITUARY

Kenneth Lee

Kenneth Wayne Lee, 64, of Keystone Heights died Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026. He was born June 2, 1962, in Dallas, Texas Prior to retirement, he worked as a truck driver for the United States Postal Service. He was preceded in death by his wife, Leona Lee; and parents, Wayne and Mary Lee.

Survivors are his daughter, Kendra (Keith) Hansen; sisters, Janice Lee and Francis (Carl) Baker; granddaughter, Kaylei Hansen; stepson, Richard Schwab; and extended family,

Services have not been scheduled.

Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Keystone Heights 352-473-3176 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.

Jeannie Norman

Jean “Jeannie” Opal Moore Norman, 86, of Lawtey passed away on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026, at Haven Hospice of Orange Park. She was born Nov. 16, 1939, to Cornelius and Lois (Judd) Moore in Heilbronn Springs. She was raised there until marrying Gene Norman in December of 1959, when they made Lawtey their forever home. That home was filled with love and devotion for nearly 67 years until Gene’s passing two weeks ago. Jeannie was such a sweet and loving person who adored her husband and family. She was the person that was always there for any family member or friend that needed her. Jeannie was of the Christian faith. She worked for many years in the banking industry, but her greatest accomplishment was being a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother (Veve), and great- grandmother. She loved her flowers and always had a beautiful yard full of them. Although she would tell you that she was no artist, she painted lots of beautiful things over the years.

Jeannie was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Gene; her brother, Billy Moore; and her baby sister, Rose Moore.

She is survived by her sons, Sam (Joni) Norman of Starke and Rob Norman of Lawtey; her granddaughters, Lindsay (Cole) Hession of Lawtey and Kacey (Eddie) McCormick of Starke; her three great-grandsons, Weston Hession, Camden Hession, and Maverick McCormick, who all lovingly called her Veve. She is also survived by her brother, Glen Moore of Starke; and several nieces and nephews.

Jeannie was a true treasure that will be missed but never forgotten. Her family is truly thankful that she is once again with her beloved Gene, sitting on their swing in heaven.

Per her request, there will be no services or memorial.

Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.

PAID OBITUARY

Travis Prevatt

Leslie “Travis” Prevatt, 70, of Lawtey died Monday, Nov. 2, 2026, at Haven Hospice, Gainesville. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie and Madeline (Griffis) Prevatt;  wife, Anne (Page) Prevatt; son, Leslie “T.J.” Prevatt Jr.; and brother-in-law, Ricky Page.

Survivors are his sister, Gail Wilkerson; grandchildren, Hayden, Gunner, and Seren Prevatt; nephew, Tracy Prevatt; and extended family and friends.

A graveside service was held Wednesday, Nov. 11. Interment was at Evergreen Baptist Church Cemetery in Raiford.

Arrangements were by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke 32091. 904- 964-6200.

Ronald Price

Ronald Eugene Price, 84, of Keystone Heights died at home Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026.

Survivors are his wife, Benna (Brooks) Price; children: Barbie (Rob) Zenz, Debbie (Jeff) Price, and Billy Price; brother, William Price (Suzanne); half-sister, Vickie (Brad) Hickock; half-brother, Bob (Kathy) Price; and extended family.

Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E.  Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352- 4733176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com

Russell Thomas Sr.

Russell “Ray” Thomas, Sr., 82, of Starke died Monday, Nov. 9, 2026.  He was a member of Pine Level Baptist Church.

Survivors are children, Donnie (Jeannie) King, Lisa (Charles Dale) Norman, Kimberly (David) McKinney, and Rusty (Amanda) Thomas Jr.; one brother; four sisters; and extended family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be Thursday, Nov. 12, at 11 a.m. at Pine Level Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Crosby Lake Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, Nov. 11 from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at the church. 

Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral, Starke, 904- 964-5757.

Linda Wickline

May 24, 1953 – Nov. 04, 2026

Linda Faith Wickline, 73, a lifelong resident of Starke, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026, at Silver Treasures in Orange Park. She was born on May 24, 1953, to the late Edward S. Adkins Sr. and Ruby Pauline Brooks Adkins. Linda graduated from Bradford High School in 1971. She was married to Vern W. Wickline Jr., with whom she enjoyed traveling, visiting new places, and making memories along the way. Linda was the mother of three children, Renee (Dake) Cassels, Robert (Jenna) Hewett, and Trey (Tallie) Wickline. Her family also includes her grandchildren, Dylan (Bailey) Cassels, Shianne (Triston) Brown, Brayden Cassels, Michael Hewett, Maddie (Lance) Horne, Ella Hewett, and Aubrey Hewett; five great-grandchildren, Alaina Brown, Bryer Cassels, Elliet Cassels, Atlas Brown, and Riggs Horne. Linda is also survived by her siblings, Edward S. Adkins Jr., Sophia Massey, Robie Janet Carter, and Roy (Robyn) Adkins, and sister-in-law, Linda Adkins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward S. Adkins Sr. and Ruby Pauline Brooks Adkins; brothers, J.R. Adkins and Mark Adkins; sister, Rrene Hewett; brothers-in-law, Daniel Massey and W. L. Carter Jr.; sister-in-law, Leslie Holder; and great-granddaughter, Saylor Cassels.

Linda retired from the Bradford County School Board after many years of dedicated service as a paraprofessional at Starke Elementary School. She especially enjoyed working in the computer lab and the opportunity it provided to assist students and work alongside fellow staff members. She treasured the memories made during her years at Starke Elementary. Faith was an important part of her life, and Bayless Highway Church played a special role in her spiritual journey. Through the church, she found fellowship, encouragement, and opportunities to grow in her relationship with the Lord. Linda’s life was shaped by her faith, her experiences, and the people whose paths crossed her throughout the years. As family and friends reflect on her life, may they find comfort in the memories they hold and peace in God’s promise of eternal rest.

May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love and grace of our Heavenly Father.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Silver Treasures in Orange Park for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion shown to Linda during her time there. Your dedication and gentle care will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timothy 4:7

A Celebration of Life was held Monday, Nov. 9, at Bayless Highway Baptist Church, 11798 CR-225 Starke, 32091 with Pastor Michael Conner Jr. officiating. Linda’s family received friends for visitation on Monday, Nov. 9, prior to the service. Interment followed at Jacksonville National Cemetery. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at www.broadusraines.com.

Arrangements were under the care of Broadus-Raines Funeral Home, 501 Spring St., Green Cove Springs 32043. 904-284-4000.

PAID OBITUARY