Kolden Jenkins
We gather today with heavy hearts to remember and celebrate the remarkable life of Kolden Blake Jenkins, a vivacious young boy who brought joy to everyone around him. Born Nov. 7, 2010, in Gainesville, Kolden, whose time with us was far too short, passed away at his home in Starke on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026. He was known for his kind and helpful spirit. Whether he was riding his bike, enjoying moments of adventure while fishing, or lifting weights while jamming out to his music, he approached life with a delightful enthusiasm. His quirky humor made every gathering feel special; he had a way of making people giggle just by being himself. Family was incredibly important to Kolden. He cherished his dad, Michael “Bull,” and they were best friends, sharing many wonderful experiences together. He was also a loving brother to Kylee, Kaleb, Kinlyn, and Kaiden. He adored playing with his nieces and nephews, Molly, Mason, Henry, and Kentli, creating countless memories filled with laughter and fun that will always be remembered by all.
Kolden is lovingly survived by his mother, Stephanie Clemons; and his father and stepmother, Michael “Bull” (Rhonda) Jenkins and a tight-knit family who will hold his memory dear. He leaves behind grandparents, Jane Clemons, Mike Jenkins, and John and Linda Woods, who showered him with endless love and wisdom. He will also be deeply missed by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Kolden was preceded in death by his grandfather, Lamar Clemons; and grandmother, Mary Jewell.
In honor of Kolden’s life there was a visitation on Tuesday, Feb. 3, followed by a Celebration of Life, both held at Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. Family and friends were invited to come together to share stories, laughs, and tears in remembrance of Kolden Blake Jenkins. Although his time with us was all too brief, the impact he made and the love he shared will forever resonate in our hearts.
PAID OBITUARY
Barbara Northam
Mrs. Barbara E. Northam, 84, of Keystone Heights passed away Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, at Haven Hospice in Palatka. She was born on Aug. 1, 1941, in New Castle, Indiana to James W. and Decil (Spencer) Cotton. Her childhood was spent in Taylorsville, Kentucky. She moved to Florida in her teen years where she met the love of her life, Delmer Northam. He was a born-again Christian, and his testimony led her to accept the Lord as her personal savior. They were married in 1958 and moved to Gainesville for work and to begin their family life together. One of their loves was Child Evangelism Fellowship, where they served on the board. They were instrumental in the establishment of Camp Good News, where many children heard the gospel. After Delmer’s retirement, they traveled for many years and settled in Keystone Heights. She enjoyed traveling, playing Scrabble, reading, and volunteering at Lake Area Ministries. She was a longtime and active member of Trinity Baptist Church, where she served in the nursery, the kitchen and in Vacation Bible School. Her most cherished times were being with her family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Delmer Northam.
Left behind are her daughters, Rebecca Williams (Mike) of Keystone Heights, and Deborah Greene (George) of Brunswick, Ohio; along with her brother-in-law, Elmer Northam. She was lovingly called “Granny” by seven grandchildren and “GiGi” by 12 great-grandchildren. Although she did not have any siblings, there were many friends she called sister.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, Feb. 7, at 11 a.m. at Trinity Baptist Church, with Pastor Scott Stanland, officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 a.m. Graveside services will follow at 2 p.m. at Forest Meadows Cemetery East in Gainesville. In lieu of flowers, monetary gifts can be given to Camp Good News, 120 Twin Lakes Road, Hawthorne, 32640 or Lake Area Ministries, P.O. Box 1385, Keystone Heights, 32656.
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
Shirley Pruitt
Shirley J. (Kelly) Pruitt, 88, was called home by her Savior, on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026, at UF Health Shands in Gainesville following a sudden illness. She was born Dec. 11, 1937, in Starke to Warren and Regina (Pearce) Kelly. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Gene Pruitt; and siblings, Voncil Futch (Benton), E. Carolyn Mann and J.B. Kelly (Golda Mae).
Left behind to cherish their “Best Mom Ever” are her children, Stephanie Pruitt (James Hamby), Buddy Pruitt, and Tracy Pruitt. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and additional family members that will miss her dearly.
Her visitation will be held Thursday, Feb 12, beginning at 10 a.m. at DeWitt C. Jones Chapel of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home. Private interment will follow at Crosby Lake Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations be made to the Madison Street Baptist Church, 900 W. Madison St., Starke, 32091 or Madisonstreet.org.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke 32091. 904-964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Dennis Richardson
Dennis Leon Richardson, born Oct. 6, 1961, in Starke, was a devoted father, loving family man, and a friend to everyone he met. He worked as a truck driver and business entrepreneur, taking pride in his independence and strong work ethic. He believed in hard work and responsibility, values he carried throughout his life. He was a fun-loving person who made friends wherever he went. He especially cherished time spent with his family on the Suwannee River, where some of his happiest moments were made. Those days on the river, filled with laughter, relaxation, and togetherness, meant everything to him and will be remembered always. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Tammy Richardson, who passed away in 2014. He was the son of Pansy Taylor (Crosby). He was a proud and loving father to his three children, Scott Richardson, Kevin Richardson, and Tamber (Murphy) Williams, who were the center of his world. He also got great pleasure in spending time with his grandchildren, Rowan, Daniel, Matthew, Emma, Austin, Dallas, Savanna, Treven, Braxton, Cheyanne, Nova, and Brayden. He is also survived by his devoted sister, Denise (Wayne) Haight.
A service to honor his life will be held Friday, Feb. 6, at Bayless Highway Baptist Church at 1 p.m. A visitation time will begin one hour prior at 12 p.m. He will be laid to rest immediately following the service at Crosby Lake Cemetery. Pastor Mike Conner to officiate. Dennis will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on through shared stories, familiar laughter, and the love he gave so freely.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve the Richardson family during their time of loss. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Wilbur Rogers
Wilbur Willie Rogers, 76, formerly of Raiford and Lake Butler, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, while undergoing physical rehabilitation at Clearsky Rehabilitation Hospital in Lake City. He had been in and out of the hospital Since May 30, 2025, for chronic heart failure, having emergency stints, followed by pneumonia and other health concerns. These illnesses had left him weak, and he voluntarily went to the hospital to get stronger in order to be able to plant his garden in the spring. Wilbur was born in Jacksonville to the late Willie Rogers (Father), and Cora Rogers (Mother), who lives in Raiford. Wilbur retired with 20 years of service from the Department of Corrections, working at seven different institutions during his tenure FSP, UCI, RMC, APCI, River Junction, New River, and Baker CI. After leaving corrections, he owned and operated his own construction company and showed and championed American Staffordshire Terriers in his spare time. He enjoyed gardening, his dogs, and playing Bingo. Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers.
He was preceded in death by his youngest son, Travis L. Rogers Sr., his brother, David Rogers; and David’s wife, Debbie Rogers.
Survivors are his wife of 55 years, Rita Eileen Ellington Rogers; son, Wilbur (BB) Willie Rogers II, and BB’s wife, Rita L. Rogers (who was like a daughter to him), of Lake Butler; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; brothers, Earl Rogers and Dennis Rogers; and sister, Gail Underwood of Branson, Missouri. He left many nieces and nephews on both sides of the family.
At Wilbur’s request, there was no funeral service and he was cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held at a time and place to be determined later. Rita wishes to express her deepest thanks to all of the condolences sent to the family on Wilbur’s behalf. You do not know how much your thoughts and prayers have meant to her at this time.
PAID OBITUARY
Raymond Starling
It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Raymond Hoyt Starling, a hardworking man who knew the value of sweat and toil. Born Jan. 1, 1935, and, after 91 full years, he left us peacefully at his home in Lawtey on Sunday, Feb 1, 2026. Hoyt had a long and proud career as a heavy equipment operator with Container Corporation for over half a century, but anyone who knew him would tell you he was a farmer at heart. His hands were meant for planting, and he spent his whole life tending to anything that could grow. When he wasn’t behind the wheel of some hefty machinery or working the land, you could find him out in the wild, finding peace in hunting and fishing. He was a devoted family man, having shared 55 wonderful years with his beloved wife, Evelyn Starling, who has joined him in rest. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lois Starling Tanner; and his siblings, Adel Starling, June Edwards, and Randolph Box.
Hoyt leaves behind a loving family that will carry on his legacy. His daughters, Donna Bentley and Sheila Starling, hold dear the memories of a father who instilled hard work and love into their lives. His grandchildren, Raymond Starling (Danielle Walker) and Stacie Bentley, remember him as a guiding light, while his great-grandchildren, Victoria Padgett, Lloyd Padgett, Ashley Starling, Ryan Starling, Justin Starling, Katelynn Starling, and Remington Starling, are better for the time they spent with their grandpa. Adding to the mix are stepgreat-grandchildren, Michael and Wyatt; and great-great-grandchildren, Oaklynn Ray and Waylon Padgett, who he also loved dearly.
As we come together to celebrate Hoyt’s life and bid him farewell, we invite you to pay your respects at Archer-Milton Funeral Home in Lake Butler, Florida. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 9, followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. He will be laid to rest immediately following with service at Long Branch Cemetery.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve the Starling family during this difficult time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Wayne Thigpen
Wayne Darrell Thigpen, 74, of Starke passed away peacefully on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, at Riverwood Health and Rehabilitation Center. He was born in Gainesville on May 13, 1951, to the late Wallace L. Thigpen Jr. and Mildred Frith Thigpen. He was raised in Starke and Live Oak and graduated from Suwannee High School in 1971. He went on to have a long and successful career with the Florida Department of Transportation. After 31 years of dedicated service, he retired in 2008. A few years prior to his retirement, he relocated to Bradford County, where he made Starke his forever home. When not working, he enjoyed the peacefulness of the outdoors and loved fishing alongside his brother, David. He held a deep and special love for his family and friends and truly cherished the time spent with them. He was also a devoted fan of Gator football and loved gathering with family and friends to watch football games. He was truly loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Joseph Thigpen; and sister, June Braham.
Wayne is survived by his loving brother, David (Debbie) Thigpen Sr. of Starke; along with several nieces, nephews, and friends whom he cherished.
A Celebration of Life will be held in the near future, and he will be laid to rest with his family at Santa Fe Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke. 904-964-5757. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family’s guest book.
PAID OBITUARY
Audrey Thornton
Audrey Mae Cooper Thornton, a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, at the ET York Care Center in Gainesville. Born on Dec. 6, 1951, in Starke, Audrey lived a life filled with love, devotion, and an unwavering commitment to her family. For many years, she touched the lives of those around her through her work as a cashier at Roy’s Meat Market, where her warm smile and genuine kindness endeared her to countless customers. Later, she dedicated her time as a bus-aide for the Bradford County Schools, lovingly ensuring the safety and comfort of children during their daily commutes. She was a passionate cook, known for her great southern food that brought family and friends together around the table. It was through these meals that she shared not just sustenance but also her love and warmth, creating memories that will forever be cherished. Her proudest accomplishments were her beloved family, who she loved dearly and held the utmost pride for. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 54 years, Robert Thornton; her parents, Robert Cooper and Martha Cooper Nettles, siblings, Leon Cooper, Katie Harden, Thelma Cooper, Iola Cooper, Robert Cooper, Hubert Cooper, George Cooper, Harvey Cooper, and Joan Cooper; and great-grandchildren, Easton Thornton and Riley Rivera.
She is survived by her children, Sylvia (Rodney) Cayton, Glen (Dawnya) Thornton, and Lisa Thornton; 10 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her siblings, Bea Strickland, Betty Knight, William Cooper, and Henry Cooper; along with a host of nieces and nephews who will deeply miss her presence in their lives.
On February 4, 2026, family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation at Fellowship Baptist Church in Raiford starting at 10 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. She will be laid to rest beside her husband at Dyal Cemetery immediately following the service.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home was honored once again to serve the Thornton family. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Stacie Thornton
Stacie Colleen Thornton died Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, after a courageous battle with acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
Survivors are her father and stepmother, Willard (Susan) Thornton; children, Clayton Thornton, Sheila Wimbley, Jenna Salcedo, and Lacee Wesley; seven grandchildren; her longtime partner and best friend, Shawn Cassell; and extended family.
The family is humbly seeking support to lay her to rest. Any donation, share, or prayer is truly appreciated during this difficult time.https://gofund.me/aacdb5b19
