Shawn Dunne
Mrs. Shawn Marie Dunne, 65 of Keystone Heights, died Saturday, July 20, 2025, in Orange Park. She was born Oct. 2, 1959, in Burlington, New York to the late Ray and Grace (Beckman) Prier.
Survivors are siblings, Michael Prier of Iowa, Connie Barngrover of Keystone Heights, Douglas Prier of Oregon, and Bruce Prier of Oklahoma.
There are no local services.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-316. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
Carl Griffis
Carl Griffis, 81, passed away at his home on Monday, July 14, 2025. A lifelong resident of Raiford, he was born Aug. 24, 1943, to the late Hubert and Rube Varnes Griffis. His deep roots in this land grew into a steadfast career as a poultry farmer and cattleman, where he tended to his fields and herd with a diligence that earned him the respect of neighbors and friends alike. For 20 years, he also owned and operated a trucking business. Folks could always count on him; if you needed something hauled or delivered, he was the man you turned to. His talents didn’t just lie in farming or trucking, but rather in making connections and building relationships with everyone he met. He was the everyday hardworking man, crafting a life from the sweat on his brow and the kindness in his heart. Carl was surrounded by love until the very end, spending his final moments peacefully at home in Raiford. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Ruby Varnes Griffis; along with brother, Aaron Griffis; and sister, Mary Brown.
He leaves behind a family who adored him deeply, including his wife, Joyce Griffis; as well as his son, Wayne “Porky” Griffis; grandson, Carl Michael Griffis, great-grandchildren, Jace and Jerogiah Griffis; and sister, Betty Ann Provo (Michael Allen); along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
A visitation time for the family was on Thursday, July 17, at Archer-Milton Funeral Home. He was laid to rest with a graveside service at Pine Grove Cemetery on Friday, July 18, with Brother Neil Griffis officiating. As we celebrate the rich life Carl led, we remember the countless hours he poured into working the land and providing for his family.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve the Griffis family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Denise Norman
Denise Michelle Norman, born on Nov. 8, 1968, in Gainesville, passed away Sunday, July 13, 2025, at UF Health Shands Gainesville after an extended illness with her mother by her side. She began her career as a cosmetologist, where she honed her creative talents and transformed countless hairstyles, leaving a lasting impression on the clients she served. Her passion for helping others led her to transition to the role of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), where she continued to touch lives with her compassion and care. Eventually, she took on a new challenge by working with the Department of Corrections, where she retired after 10 years of service. Her creativity extended beyond her professional life; it was a defining aspect of her very being. She had a vibrant personality that brought joy to those around her, and she left a mark on many hearts. She was preceded in death by her father, Gary Whitten.
In her passing, Denise is remembered dearly by her mother, Cynthia “Sis” Whitehead; and son, Jonathan Gregory Norman.
As we reflect on Denise’s life, we celebrate her many contributions and the love she shared with her family and friends. Her memory will forever endure in the lives she touched.
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
Linda J. Norris
Linda J. Norris, 81, peacefully passed away Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Haven Hospice in Gainesville. She was born Jan. 29, 1944, in Lake City, to the late Ismal and Ella Will Markham. Growing up in Lake City, she graduated from Columbia County High School. Throughout her life, she embraced the role of a homemaker with grace and dedication, creating a warm and nurturing environment for her family. She is remembered as a woman of few words but deep affection. She possessed a tranquility and gentle spirit that made a lasting impact on her family and friends. She found joy in going camping and fishing, and her green thumb brought forth life in her beautiful garden. Yet, it was in the simple pleasures of life where she truly thrived curling up with a good book, solving crosswords, and sipping a delightful cup of coffee were among her favorite pastimes. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 44 years, Carl Norris; and son, Tracy Croft.
She is survived by her loving children, Stacy Croft and Josette (Stephen) Rassel. She reveled in the joy of her grandchildren, Marie Croft, Katelyn (Nick) Reddick, Bethany Croft, Kayla Croft, Madeline Croft, Carolina Croft, Melissa (Timm) Ross, Stephen (Britney) Rassel Jr., and Robby (Maggie) Rassel; alongside her 15 great-grandchildren, all of whom adored her and will miss her greatly. She is also survived by her brothers, Nevin Markham and Ken (Sandy) Markham. Along with a host of nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Linda’s life at Archer-Milton Funeral Home in Lake Butler. The visitation will take place on Wednesday, July 23, beginning at 9:30 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her memory to Haven Hospice, havenhospice.com/donate.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home was honored to serve Linda’s family during this time. 386-496-2008
PAID OBITUARY
Ruth Poppell
Ruth Marie Poppell, beloved matriarch, devoted wife, and cherished friend, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at her home in Lake Butler, surrounded by her loving family. Born and raised in Homestead to the late Phillip and Lucille Reams on Sept. 14, 1933, she dedicated her life to her work and her family. In 1968, Ruth, along with her husband, Jasper Clayton Poppell Jr., and their two sons made the move to Lake Butler, where they would plant deep roots and become integral members of Providence Village Baptist Church. She began her career as a secretary for Farmers and Dealers Bank in Lake Butler. When the bank closed its doors, she transitioned to the IRS, ultimately finding fulfillment as an administrative assistant with the VA in Lake City, from which she retired. Her work ethic and commitment to her roles exemplified her character; she approached every task with diligence and grace. Her most treasured joy was her family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Phillip Reams and Lucille Gosman Reams; son, William “Billy” Clayton Poppell; two great-grandsons, Apollo Leviticus Poppell and William John Poppell; and siblings, Mildred Sykes and Phillip Reams II.
She is survived by her husband of 73 years, Clayton, who remains a steadfast partner in love and life; and son, Mike Poppell and his wife, Laura. She was a doting grandmother to Christopher “Wayne” (Kristen) Poppell, Ashley Nicole (Keith) Harrison, Jessica Lynn (Keone) Silva, Philip Nathaniel Poppell, Jonathan Malachi (Victoria) Poppell, and Ethan Daniel (Mariah Marrero) Poppell. As well as a great-grandmother to William Clayton Wayne Poppell, Preston Wayne Tyre, Cooper Ty Harrison, Jasper William Poppell, Averie Rain Poppell, Jacob Nathaniel Poppell, Zachary Skylar (Shelby) Silva, Kealoina Kirsten Silva, Kia’Ikaika Elijah Silva, Lilli Grace Poppell, Isabel Rose Poppell, Elijah Malachi Poppell, Royal Tiberius Poppell, Calipso Havanna Poppell, Aries Atlas Poppell, and Persephone Poppell. In addition, she is survived by her sister, Dorothy Watkins; and daughter-in-law, Marguerite Poppell. Each of these individuals held a special place in her heart, and her legacy continues through them.
A service to honor her life will be held at her church, Providence Village Baptist Church, on Thursday, July 24, at 11 a.m. A visitation will begin one hour prior to the service. Brother Dax Summerhill will officiate. She will be laid to rest the following day at the Tallahassee National Cemetery in Tallahassee. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to either Wounded Warrior Project (support.woundedwarriorproject.org), St. Judes Children Hospital (www.stjudes.org), or The Gideons (www.gideons.org).
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve the Poppell family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Robert Starling
Robert Freeman Starling, 58, died Friday, July 18, 2025, at E.T. York Care Center in Gainesville. He was born March 23, 1967. He was preceded in death by his parents, Freeman Robert Starling and Rose Marie Starling; sister, Tonya Starling; and brother, Ricky Wayne Starling.
He is survived by son, Joshua Starling; twin, Brenda Bennett; sister, Angela Carter; brother, Mark Starling; and extended family members and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be on Thursday, July 24, at 3 p.m. at Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel. The family will receive friends an hour prior at the funeral home.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services, Starke, 904-964-5757.
Rita Sutton
Rita Marie Sutton, affectionately known as “Nonnie” by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, passed away peacefully at her home in Lake Butler, Friday, July 18, 2025. Born May 5, 1956, in St. Augustine, she led a life filled with warmth, love, and the joy of family.
Throughout her life, she dedicated herself to her role as a homemaker, creating a nurturing and loving environment for her family. Her quiet, yet humorous, personality endeared her to those who knew her, making her presence felt in the hearts of her loved ones. She was preceded in death by her father, Donald L. Bath; mother, Jimmy Lee Emmanuel; granddaughter, Mallory Holmer; great-granddaughter, Rhyder Lee; and dog, Dory
She is survived by her four beloved children, Tara (Kenneth) LeNeave of Keystone Heights, Helena Bath of Starke, Brandie (Darrick) Page of Lake Butler, and Michael Sutton II of Seattle, Washington. She took great pride in her grandchildren, Chase Lee, Aaron Akridge, Morgan (Austin) Parker, Whitney Holsenbeck, Macy Rose, Trinity Flanders, Kylie Frew, Brandon Page, and Kaylee Page. She also cherished her role as great-grandmother to Archer Parker, Taylin Holsenbeck, Blaine Holsenbeck, Avery Holsenbeck, Karsyn Rose, Gracelyn Cruz, Bryson Rose, Novahlee Rose, Wilder Logan, Weslyn Logan, Emerlyn Page, and Weston Warren, with one more expected addition to the family, Maybrey Lake. She is also survived by her sister, Betty Ann (Salvador) Palmisano of Jacksonville; great-uncle, Eugene Bath of Georgia; and beloved cat, Neil. Her passion extended beyond her family. She found joy in riding horses and caring for her animals, pursuits that reflected her tender spirit and love for life.
A visitation will be held Friday, July 25, from 12 p.m. until 1 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 1 p.m. at Archer-Milton Funeral Home, 55 N. Lake Ave., Lake Butler, 32054.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve Rita’s family during this difficult time. 386-496-2008
PAID OBITUARY
Dakota Thacker
Dakota Brooke Thacker, 30, of Starke, died Sunday, July 13, 2025. Born June 8, 1995, she was the daughter of Shannon Preston Thacker and Brandee Moody Barnes. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Martin and Judy Thacker; and maternal grandfather, Robert “Bobby” Moody.
She is survived by her father, Shannon (Amanda) Thacker; mother, Brandee (Richard) Barnes; twin brother, Dalton (Taylor) Thacker; sister, Josie Barnes; maternal grandmother, Diane Moody; and extended family.
A memorial was Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Sampson City Church of God.
Arrangements were under the care of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler.
Rev. Henry Thornton Jr.
Rev. Henry Frank Thornton Jr., a nearly lifelong resident of Starke, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Monday, July 14, 2025. Born in Palatka on August 21, 1946, to Henry Frank and Julia Ann Klip Thornton, Sr., he was one of five siblings. He went into the ministry over 50 years ago, first serving as pastor at Sanderson Congregational Holiness Church before moving on into evangelism. He would travel the southern states, leading souls to Christ. He spent the entirety of his adult life as a faithful servant to God and was proud of it. He was a member of Green Cove Springs Church of God for the last several years. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Robert Thornton and Everett Thornton.
He leaves behind to cherish years of sweet memories, his beloved wife of 48 years, Connie E. Thornton of Starke; daughters, Crystal (Darrell) Wilkinson of McAllen, Texas and Cherith (Joshua) Daniel of Glen St. Mary; grandchildren, Conner and Caleb Wilkinson, Collin, Braxton, Titus, Julia, and Jessa Daniel; one great- granddaughter, Charlotte Anne Wilkinson; sisters, Sharon Spears and Carol Ann Carter, both of Starke; nieces and nephews who he loved as his own; and many extended family member and close friends.
A home-going service to honor his life was held Friday, July 18, 2025, at Sanderson Congregational Holiness Church with Rev. Larry Hall officiating. The family received friends at the church prior to the service. Interment followed at South Prong Cemetery.
The staff of Guerry Forbes Funeral Home was honored to serve the Thornton family during their time of loss.
PAID OBITUARY
