Eddie Baker
In loving memory of Charles Edward “Eddie” Baker, Aug. 31, 1954 – April 21, 2025. ‘The song is ended, but the melody lingers on.” – Irving Berlin. Charles Edward “Eddie” Baker passed away peacefully on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 70 following an extended illness. Though his body grew weary, his spirit remained unshaken- resilient, gentle and full of grace. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Jessie (Jay) Edward Baker and Bessie Fay (Rice) Baker; his cherished sisters, Kathryn, Edna and May; and nephew, Shawn Baker.
While his passing leaves a space no one else can fill, his memory lives on in the hearts of those he leaves behind: his longtime and devoted girlfriend of 15 years, Betty Rhoden; children, Christopher (Victoria) Gilliland, Kelly Holder, Michael (Mary) Watmough; grandchildren, Krystal Rhoden, Matthew Watmough, Christal Gilliland, Wannis Gilliland and Rebekah Gilliland; brothers, Tommy, Jay and Ronnie; sister, Julia; nephews, Jay (Shona) Baker Jr., Thomas (Sarah) Baker, and Edwin Baker; nieces, Ann Bowe Hepburn and, Edna Lee Coleman; and too many other nieces and nephews to mention. All of whom shared in a bond that time, distance or loss could never break. “Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are at peace.” – Inuit Proverb.
Rest easy, Eddie. Your journey here may be complete, but your story lives on in all those who loved you.
PAID OBITUARY
Loyd Bryan Jr.
Loyd James Bryan Jr., 74, of Lawtey, died Monday, April 21, 2025, at HCA Florida North Florida Hospital in Gainesville He married Marian Marice Anderson, on Jan. 1, 1971.
Survivors are his wife, Marian Marice Bryan; children, Loyd (Jeana) Bryan III and Cheryl Lynn (John, Sr.) Hipps; two brothers; two sisters; and extended family members and friends.
A Celebration of Life was held Saturday, April 26, at Northside Baptist Church. Interment followed at Dyal Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services, Starke, 904-964-5757.
Linda Russell
Mrs. Linda Ann Russell, 66, of Melrose died suddenly Monday, April 28, 2025, at Shands Hospital in Gainesville.
Survivors are her sister, Diane Tabler of Hawthorne; nephews, Kevin and J.D. Tabler; and her significant other, Roger McKenzie of Melrose.
Memorial services will be at 1 p.m., Saturday, May 3, at Paran Baptist Church,
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
Gladys Shaw
Gladys Marie (Tanner) Shaw, 83, of Lake Butler, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at North Florida Regional Medical Center surrounded by family and friends. She was born on May 23, 1941, in Ft. White, where she grew up with her siblings and parents, J.B. and Pearl Tanner. After graduating high school, she married her husband, Royce Albert Shaw, and made Lake Butler her home. Their bond was one of joy and partnership, lasting for 59 wonderful years until Royce Albert’s passing in 2017. She had a heart that radiated happiness, always wearing a warm smile that brightened the lives of those around her. Her unwavering positivity and joyful spirit left an indelible mark on everyone she knew. She dedicated her career to serving as an aide at various institutions, including the Northeast Florida State Hospital and Union County Schools. Beyond her work, she embraced life fully, finding joy in all sorts of activities. Whether riding ATVs, thrift shopping, or camping, she made every moment count, often sharing her adventurous spirit with family and friends. She was always ready for an outing, no matter the destination. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Royce Albert; and her parents, J.B. and Pearl Tanner.
She is survived by her children, Jack Royce Shaw, James Albert Shaw, and Glenda Marie Shaw; grandchildren, Nicole Shaw and Jared Benton; great-grandchildren Carmen Dobbs, Jaelen Watkins, Trinity Watkins, Alayna Watkins, and Kaylin Taylor, and even great-great-grandchildren Spencer Williams and Azaire Sosa. She is also survived by her sisters, Nancy (Bobby Gene) Stalnaker and Sarah Pearl Edwards; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Her life will be honored by services on Tuesday, April 29, at New Zion Cemetery Church. A visitation will be from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. She will be laid to rest by her husband immediately following the service. Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve the Shaw family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Robert White Sr.
Robert “Bob” White Sr. died Friday, April 18, 2025, in Estero. His father, Olin Wesley White; and brother, Larry Olin White, preceded him in death.
Survivors are his wife, Melinda White; daughter, Kelly W. (Jason) Fennemore; sons, Robert Wesley White Jr., Keven White (Nathalie); mother, Lucy White of Bonita Springs; and extended family members.
Graveside services will be Friday, May 2, at 10 a.m. at Prairie Creek Conservation Cemetery, Gainesville. Memorial services will be Sunday, May 4, at 1 p.m. at Bay Presbyterian Church.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke. 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
