Obituaries — Jan. 27, 2026

Richard Baleno

Mr. Richard Baleno, 70, of Starke died Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, at Windsor Health and Rehab in Starke.  He was born on May 5, 1955, in Orlando to the late Samto and Ora (Sears) Baleno. 

There are no scheduled services per Richard’s request.

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

 

Larry Baugess

Larry Baugess

Larry “Mr. Larry” David Baugess, 79, of Lawtey passed away Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026, at his residence with his loving family by his side.  Larry was born in Beaver, Ohio on Jan. 31, 1946, to the late Richard Baugess and Mary Porter Baugess.  He was raised in Kentucky, where he completed his schooling before beginning a lifelong career as an industrial mechanic. He married the love of his life, Deloris Jean “D.J.” Baugess, and together they shared a beautiful life built on love, hard work, and devotion to family. In 1971, they made Bradford County their home, where they raised their four children and created countless cherished memories.  A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he took great pride in his family and treasured every moment spent with them. He worked for many years at Owens Joist Steel Mill in Starke and later dedicated nearly 40 years of service to Gilman Sawmill in Maxville.  When not working, he enjoyed watching football and spending time in conversation. He loved talking about the weather and staying up to date with politics. A loyal Florida Gators fan, he cheered them on with enthusiasm, win or lose.  He was a true treasure and will be remembered for his deep love for his family and the quiet joy he found in life’s simple pleasures. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.  He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Carl Baugess; sister, Verna Mae Johnson; wife, Deloris Jean Baugess; daughter, Mary Baugess; grandson, Tommy Bauguess; and son-in-law, Jerry Westberry.

He is survived by his loving children, Loretta Westberry of Starke, Albert (Jackie Christine) Baugess of Lawtey and Richard Baugess of Starke; a cherished bonus daughter, Tina and Bill Gatlin of Starke; brother, Wilbur (Chloe) Baugess of Grayson, Kentucky; grandchildren, Paul Allen (Erica) Holt, Joey Baugess, and Kenneth Andrew (Katie) Wallace; adopted grandkids who knew and loved Mr. Larry as “Papa Larry,” Carter and Ivey Jones; great-grandchildren, Reminton Paul Holt, Trenton Holt, and another great-grandson, Lafoy Wallace, on the way; along with several extended family members and friends.

A Graveside Celebration of Life will be held Friday, Jan. 30, at 11 a.m. at Keystone Heights Cemetery with Chaplain Jim Cox officiating.  The family will receive friends Thursday, Jan. 29, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the funeral home. 

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

 

 

Steve Beard

Steve Beard

Carl “Steve” Beard, 79, of Melrose died at his home Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026.

Survivors are his son, Scott (Nikki) Beard of Keystone Heights; daughters, Kelly Sue Beard of Pearce, Arizona and Kimberly Ann (Jim) Powell of Leigh, Nebraska; and extended family

A memorial service will be held at a later date in Indiana, with details to be announced.

Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights, 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Glenda Borgner

Glenda Wade Borgner, 91, from Oxford, Mississippi died peacefully Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026, surrounded by her family. A devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she will be remembered for her kindness and dedication to her family. As a Jehovah’s Witness she loved talking about the Bible and about her God Jehovah and his son, Jesus.

The family will be having a private gathering.

Arrangements are with Jones-Gallaher Funeral Home of Starke, 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.

 

 

Nancy Buz

Nancy “Nana” Buz, 75, who spent her entire life in Melrose, was born July 20, 1950, in Starke and went to be with the Lord Jesus on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose life was rooted in faith and family. She shared 60 years of marriage with the love of her life, Roger Buz. Two young hearts that God brought together for a lifetime. She was the proud owner of Melrose Florist for 22 years, where her creativity and kindness touched many lives through flowers. She was a faithful member of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church for 45 years, where her faith guided her life. Known lovingly as “Nana” by most, she found her greatest joy in spending time with her family. She loved attending bluegrass festivals where music and laughter filled her heart. She also found joy working as a bluegrass booking agent, had her own bluegrass radio show, and hosted pickin’ jams at a 100-year-old schoolhouse she had relocated to her property for unbelievable “jams” each month.

She is survived by her husband, Roger Buz; her two children, Carl Buz and Tresa Buz; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her gentle but strong spirit and her unwavering Christian faith.

A Victory Service will be held Saturday, Jan. 31, at 2 p.m. at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, 3760 State Road 21, Keystone Heights, 32656. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Christian Life Resources, P.O. Box 56, Reinfield, WI, 53076, www.Christianliferesources.com, 1-800-729-9535

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

 

Lori Greek

Lori Greek

Lori Ann Greek, a beloved wife, mother, daughter, and friend, passed away unexpectedly at her home in Lake Butler on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026. Born on March 23, 1973, in Macclenny, Lori brought warmth and love to all who knew her and had an enduring dedication to her family. A proud graduate of Baker County High School, she embraced life with a quiet demeanor, often keeping to herself but radiating kindness in her interactions. She married Ray Greek, with whom she shared 33 wonderful years of partnership. Together, they raised three loving children, Jonathan Daniel Greek, Bradley Isaiah Greek, and Alora Ann Greek. Her commitment to her family defined her life, as she cherished moments spent with them, nurturing their dreams and aspirations. She found joy in simple pleasures, particularly in her hobbies, which included collecting stuffed animals and visiting the beach. Her modest interests belied the depth of her character, which was marked by a serene presence and a unique ability to bring calm to those around her. She was preceded in death by her mother, Ethel Bryant.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Ray Greek; her children, Jonathan, Bradley, and Alora; and her father, Authur Bryant. The memories of Lori’s gentle spirit and loving nature will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Her final memorialization will be by cremation under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

 

 

Cynthia Hardenbrook

Cynthia Hardenbrook

Cynthia Earleena Hardenbrook, 88, a lifelong resident of Starke, passed away Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, at her residence with her loving family by her side.  She was born in Starke on Feb. 25, 1937, to the late George Troy Norman and Lula Mae Tomlinson Norman.  After graduating from Bradford High School, she married her best friend and lifelong companion, Edward Lee Hardenbrook. Together, they shared a beautiful life and were blessed with four precious children, 11 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and, throughout the years, made many cherished memories. Cynthia had a servant’s heart and took great pride in helping others. For nearly 20 years, she worked as a waitress at Famous Amos Restaurant on Normandy Boulevard in Jacksonville, a career that brought her much joy. She genuinely loved serving meals and brightening the days of those around her.  In her quieter moments, she found happiness in playing her clarinet and listening to music. She loved gardening, especially caring for her plants and petite roses. She also enjoyed relaxing at home, watching her favorite soap operas and NCIS crime shows, often with a Snickers ice cream bar and a Coca-Cola close by—thoughtful treats lovingly brought to her by her husband. She was deeply devoted to Edward. He was truly the love of her life, and their bond was the center of her world.  She faithfully attended First Baptist Church of Macclenny for many years. Above all, she loved her family and was most passionate about spending time with her grandchildren and her beloved chihuahua. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and all who were fortunate to know her.  She was preceded in death by her parents; loving husband of 67 years, Edward Lee Hardenbrook; brother, Jeremiah Norman; sons, Timothy Hardenbrook and Danny Hardenbrook; and granddaughter, Shelby Hardenbrook.

She is survived by her daughters, Tammy (Dale) Hand  of Starke and Joy (Tim) Davis of Jacksonville; daughter-in-law, Vicky Hardenbrook of Macclenny; brother, Earl Norman of Chapel Hill, North Carolina; grandchildren, Stewart, Thorne, Bailey, DeWayne, Timothy, Alexis, Triston, Cory, Jessie, Mariah, and Brandon; great- grandchildren, Asher, Aubrie, and Allie; along with several extended family members and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, Jan. 31, at 2 p.m. at V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services Chapel with Pastor John Shultz officiating.  Interment will follow at Macedonia Cemetery.  The family will receive friends on Saturday an hour prior to the service at the funeral home chapel.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services, 250 N. Lowder St., Macclenny, 32063 904-259-5700. Please visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family’s guest book. 

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

Robert Kitchens

Robert Kitchens

Robert Lenwood Kitchens, known to friends and family simply as Lenwood, was born Sept. 25, 1938, in Glenwood, Georgia. He spent his days in faithful service, working as a tile contractor throughout his life. He proudly owned and operated Kitchens Tile, where he took great joy in his work, crafting beautiful spaces for others. He was not just defined by his profession. He was an outgoing and generous man who had a true heart for helping others. He always placed God first in his life, embodying this devotion in the way he treated those around him. His character shone brightest on the baseball field, where he was known for coaching, playing, and watching the game he loved. In his younger days, he also enjoyed playing flag football. After an extended illness, he passed away on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026, at the Haven Hospice in Orange Park. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jessie and Dessie Kitchens; his beloved wife, Bonnie Kitchens; his son, David Scott Kitchens; his daughters, Susie Mosley and Linda Hodges; his grandson, Marcus Mosley; and siblings, Gene, Tommy, and Corrine Kitchens.

  He leaves behind a loving family that includes his children, Michael Kitchens, Adam Kitchens, Donna Mapel, and Jackie Spears. He was a proud grandfather to Kevin, Katrina, Josh, Joey, Jackie, Michael, Lindsay, J.R., Sonya, Johnny, Charlie, and Kristen; and cherished by his 27 great-grandchildren and several great-great-grandchildren. He also shared wonderful bonds with his brothers, Wedrell, Carlton, and Johnnie Kitchens; and had a bonus mother in Hazel Hanson and a bonus brother, Joe Bodick.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life. Visitation will take place on Friday, Jan 30, from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by a memorial service beginning at 11 a.m. Both services will be held at God’s Rescue House, 9830 SW 104th Ave., Hampton. He will be remembered for his kind spirit, unwavering faith, and love for his family, who will carry his memory in their hearts forever.

Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to once again serve the Kitchens family. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

 

Loca McDavid

Loca McDavid

Loca Renfroe McDavid, a beautiful and sweet soul, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, at UF Health Shands Gainesville after an extended illness at the age of 94. She was born June 15, 1931, in Union County. Her life was one marked by love and faith. For many years, Loca dedicated her professional life to sales at Maas Brothers, where her warm personality and commitment to customer service left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of working with her. Outside of her career, she found joy in various pursuits, yard sales, collecting antiques, and the gentle art of quilt making. Her quilts were more than just fabric and stitches; they were a labor of love, and she lovingly created a unique quilt for each of her grandchildren, wrapping them in her warmth and care. She was a loving believer in Jesus Christ, a faith that guided her throughout her life and inspired her to touch the lives of those around her. Her legacy is felt deeply by her family, including her two sons, Steve Martin O’Steen and his wife Sandra, and Scott Stanton O’Steen. She was a cherished grandmother to Rebecca, Mark, and Sarah; bonus grandchildren Rusty and Jennifer, and her great-grandchildren, Gavin, Dylan, Colin, Halle, Jack, Adaline; bonus great-grandchildren, Sawyer, Laila, Levi, Sienna, Aamyah, Brooklynn, Miracle, and Ellianna, who brought her immense joy and happiness. She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul Renfroe and Loca Parrish; her husbands, Eldred O’Steen and Albert McDavid; her grandson, Mark O’Steen; her sisters, Conetha Renfroe, Nevada Dukes, Eunice Evans, Eletha Malphurs, and Ella Mae Willis; and her brothers, Wilmer, T.L., and Reamer Renfroe, all of whom welcomed her with open arms into eternal rest is our hope.

She is survived by her beloved sister, Dorothy Clyatt; and many nieces and nephews who shared countless memories and family bonds with her throughout their lives.

A visitation will be held Saturday, Jan. 31, from 11 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at Archer-Milton Funeral Home in Lake Butler, Florida. This will be followed by a funeral service at the same location, beginning at 11:30 a.m. She will be laid to rest immediately following the service at Elzey Chapel Cemetery. Loved ones are invited to come together to honor her life, share their stories, and celebrate the remarkable woman she was. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to UF Health Shands. giving.ufhealth.org

Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve Loca’s family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

Carol Parrish

Carol Parrish

Mrs. Carol Ann Parrish, 86, of Keystone Heights passed away Friday, Jan. 16, 2026. She was born July 14, 1939, in Jacksonville, to James and Mary (McCranie) Parrish. She dedicated her life to her family and home, spreading love and warmth to everyone she met. A woman of deep faith, she loved Jesus and found solace in playing the piano and singing hymns. She had a special talent for nurturing her garden and enjoyed spending time with birds and flowers, reflecting her vibrant spirit and love for nature. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Gordon Leon Parrish; and their son, Gary Parrish.

Left behind to cherish her memory are her children, LeeAnn (Andrew) Anderson, Roy Parrish, and Steve (Michelle) Parrish. Also left behind are her sister, Mary Hawkins; and brothers, Glenn Bryant and Dale Bryant. She was also a proud “Memaw” to her grandchildren, Ryan, Alexandra, Erin, and Drew; and a loving great-grandmother to Carter and Beckett. Her heart swelled with joy as she welcomed her great-great-grandchildren, Julia and Jack, into the family.

A family memorial service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

 

 

 

 

Theresa Rhoden

Theresa Rhoden

Mrs. Theresa Hunt Rhoden, 63, of Keystone Heights, passed away Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, at Shands Hospital following a short battle with cancer. She was born Oct. 22, 1962, to Robert Hunt and Jenny Crowley.  She was a wonderful homemaker, mother, and wife. She loved being outdoors near the water fishing and crabbing. She also loved family time and being with others. Her father preceded her in death.

Left behind to cherish her memory are her loving and devoted husband of nearly 34 years, Henry Gerald Rhoden; two sons, William Scott and Thomas Scott; along with her mother and sisters, Donna Williams and Caroly Bigall Hunt. She also leaves behind several grandchildren and a precious great-granddaughter.

There are no scheduled services at this time.

Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

 

 

 

 

John Skinner

John Skinner

Mr. John Charles Lewis Skinner passed away at his home Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, at the age of 61. Born Sept 29, 1964, in Los Gatos, California, John lived most of his later years in Starke. He had a passion for the simple joys in life. Whether it was casting a line on a fishing trip, enjoying meals, or jamming to his favorite tunes, he embraced each moment with enthusiasm. His love of music spanned all genres, and he could often be found reminiscing about the songs that made up the soundtrack of his life. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Skinner and Veazie (Parks) Jones.

John was a constant presence in his family’s lives, a brother to Kevin Skinner, Lisa MacMillan (Bill), Dana Skinner; and his stepfather, Thomas Jones. He held a special place in the hearts of his nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, who will remember him as a loving and generous soul.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home 620 Nona St., Starke, 32091. 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.

PAID OBITUARY

 

 

 

 

Frank Smith

Francis “Frank” Almon Smith, 78, of Hampton died Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, at Community Hospice Bailey’s Family Center for Caring. 

Survivors are his wife, Donna Smith; children, Shannon Lewis, Kim Smith, Jennifer (Chris) Leo, and Bryan Smith; two stepdaughters; two brothers; and extended family and friends.

His family will celebrate his life at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness in Hampton. 

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

 

 

Sherry Strickland

Sherry Strickland

Sherry Margaret (Yetman) Strickland, 82, of Melrose, passed away peacefully Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, at Bailey Center for Caring in St. Augustine. She was born March 10, 1943, in Marianna and lived in Jacksonville until 1972, when she moved to Keystone Heights and eventually to Lake Santa Fe in 1984. In addition to her mother, Sadie Tipton McCallister, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert (Bob) Strickland; and daughter-in-law, Michelle Strickland.

Sherry is survived by her sons, Bobby Strickland, Tim (Deborah) Strickland and Joe (Emily) Strickland; as well as grandsons, Joseph Strickland and John Strickland.

Her memorial service will be held Monday, Feb. 2, at 11 a.m. at Community Church of Keystone Heights, 345 SE Palmetto Ave., Keystone Heights, 32656. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations be made to Foundation of Community Hospice & Palliative Care, 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, 32257 or online at thefoundationcares.org/give.

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