Richard Addison
Richard Raymond Addison, 89, of Keystone Heights died at home on Saturday, June 27, 2026. He was born May 27, 1937, in Tampa to Cecil and Lottie (Drawdy) Addison. He was preceded in death by his parents; and wife, Sara (Starling) Addison.
Survivors are children, Sharon Roark and Rick Addison; brother, Cecil (Martha) Addison; brother-in-law, Lamar Starling; and extended family.
A graveside service was held Wednesday, July 8. Interment was at Keystone Heights Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352- 473-3176.
Jimmy Beasley
Jimmy Beasley, 74, was born July 24, 1951, in Lake City and lived his entire life in Lake Butler. He passed away peacefully at home on Monday, July 6, 2026, with his beloved wife and daughter by his side and under the compassionate care of Community Hospice. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Reba Beasley.
Jimmy dedicated 45 years of his life to serving the people of Lake Butler through his work with both the city and county. He proudly served his community both as Mayor of Lake Butler and as a member of the Lake Butler City Council. He was known for his strong work ethic, servant’s heart, and unwavering commitment to helping others. His kindness, integrity, and dedication to his family, friends, and community left a lasting impact on all who knew him. Jimmy cherished and enjoyed spending time with his family and took great pride in watching his grandchildren grow. He was deeply loved and respected, and his legacy of service, compassion, and devotion will be remembered for generations to come.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Brenda Beasley of Lake Butler; daughter, Kim (Ben) Phillips of Gainesville; sister, Shirley (Ed) Fletcher of Ocala; grandchildren, Kiersten (Skyler) Shatto of Lake Butler and Zackery (Kenadi) Palmer of Hawaii; and great-grandson, Hayz Shatto of Lake Butler.
A visitation for family and friends will be held Thursday, July 9, at 11 a.m. at Archer-Milton Funeral Home in Lake Butler. A Celebration of Life will follow the visitation at 12 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Dementia Society of America in Jimmy’s honor.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve Jimmy’s family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Judith Bruning
Judith Diane “Judy” Bruning, 85, of Keystone Heights passed away Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Haven Hospice Roberts Care Center in Palatka. She was born Feb. 7, 1941, in Miami to Robert and Lillian (Frost) Norton. She was a devoted member of Lake Area Bible Church in Melrose since 1995, where she actively served her church family and community. In 2008, she received her Advanced Diploma in Theology from Life Christian University. Her faith was central to her life, and she could often be found reading her Bible and attending ministry conferences. Judy remained a stay-at-home mom until the 1980s, when she re-entered the workforce. She first worked for Calvary Ministries and then spent 10 years at the bankruptcy law firm of Lansing J. Roy. More recently, she was a caregiver with Comfort Keepers, where she passionately cared for others in their later stages of life. One of her greatest joys was working as cashier at the first Frozen Pelican in Keystone Heights with her daughter and son-in-law. She poured her heart into the family run business as the proudest supporter and biggest fan from day one. In her younger years, she enjoyed horseback riding, painting, and barrel racing on Saturday nights at the Riding Club and was quite the tennis player. She even made a memorable splash in the ’80s by swimming a remarkable 3 miles in Lake Geneva, coming in second place. Judy lived a truly Spirit-led life, completely anchored by her faith in God and filled with his agape love. She was a devoted student of scripture and a mighty prayer warrior, constantly interceding for others, journaling, writing down prophecies, and deeply studying the Word. Her absolute favorite topic of conversation was salvation, the Holy Spirit, the joy of Jesus and the promise of Heaven. That heavenly perspective fueled her earthly purpose. She loved helping people navigate the practical challenges of their daily lives. She possessed a rare maternal grace that extended far beyond her own children, acting as a spiritual mother to many. A natural peacemaker, she always chose to champion the truth and always asked “does it line up with the Word?” She loved her family with a devotion that mirrors Christ’s love and leaves behind a beautiful legacy of unconditional love and faithful service. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter Laura Bruning Densmore; and brothers, Larry Norton and Glenn Norton.
Judy leaves behind her children, Lisa Bruning (Troy) Stephens of Melrose, and Karl (Jackie) Bruning of Plainfield, Illinois; along with her brother, Brett Norton of Keystone Heights; and son-in-law Eric Densmore of Anthony. She was lovingly called “JuJu” by her grandchildren, Ava Densmore, Adysen Stephens, Colton Densmore and Wyatt Bruning.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Lake Area Bible Church in memory of Judy and the life she lived ministering to others.
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
Kay Carter
Patricia Kay Carter, 87, passed away on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, after an extended illness. Kay moved to Starke at the age of 5 in 1944 from Cedar Key. She attended Bradford High School, where she met and later married her high school sweetheart, William E Carter on Aug. 24, 1956. Kay was a homemaker her entire life, a title she was very proud of. Her greatest joys in life came from spending time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and tending to her vast flower gardens, which was evident to anyone who visited her home. She was preceded in death by her husband of over 60 years, William E Carter.
She is survived by her three sons, Benny (Lisa) Carter of Fleming Island, David (Montez) Carter of Orange Springs and Steve (Amy) Carter of Starke; six grandchildren, Ryan, Eric, Danie, Preston, Peyton and Cayden; and six great-grandchildren, Brody, Carrington, Emily Kay, Lorena, Natalie and Cooper.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 18, at 10:30 a.m. at St Marks Episcopal Church in Starke, where she was a member for over 80 years. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to: St Marks Legacy Fund. P.O. Box 487, Starke 32091.
Arrangements are under the care of the National Cremation Society.
PAID OBITUARY
Steve Cornwall
Steve G. Cornwall, 77, of Starke died Thursday, July 2, 2026, in Gainesville. He was born July 30, 1948, in Starke to the late Robert and Thelma Cornwall. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sara Cornwall; parents; son, Steven E. Cornwall; three brothers; one grandson; and one granddaughter.
Survivors are his daughter, Angela (Ronald) Goodman; sons, Robert (Susan) Cornwall and Edward Cornwall; brothers, Jessie Cornwall and Wayne (Kelly) Cornwall; and extended family and friends.
Steve’s family will celebrate his life privately at a later date.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services, Starke. 904-964-5757.
Cohen Erickson
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Infant Cohen John David Erickson, who left us Thursday, July 2, 2026. Cohen was born on June 11 in Gainesville and brought warmth and joy to our lives in his short time here.
Cohen is survived by his parents, Chase Erickson and Anne Andraschko; brother, Braxton Erickson; maternal grandparents, Colleen and Edwin Andraschko; paternal grandparents, Richard and Cheryl Erickson; and extended family.
A memorial service was held Sunday, July 5, at DeWitt C. Jones Chapel of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home. Cohen’s time with us may have been brief, but his presence will be lasting.
James Profitt
James Sanford Profitt, 77, of Starke passed peacefully on Friday, June 26, 2026, at the VA Hospital in Gainesville. Born Oct. 8, 1948, in Furnace, Kentucky, James was the son of the late Charlie Elmer and Elsie Patrick Profitt. A proud United States Army veteran, he faithfully served his country from 1968 to 1970, earning numerous military honors. He was welcomed into eternal rest by his parents; his beloved son, James Sanford Profitt Jr.; daughter, Crystal Profitt Hall; brothers, Chester Profitt and Michael “Farmer Jack” Profitt; and sisters, Bettie Lorene Cornett and Barbara Wise.
He is survived by his wife, Juanita Sanders Profitt; daughter, April Profitt (Brian Lickliter); stepsons, Ray Smith, Jr., Ramon (Cordy) Smith, Allen (Jada) Smith and Stanley Brown, stepdaughter, Abreana Smith; his cherished grandchildren, Barry Baskin, Tyler Hall, Sam Madison and Ben Madison, R.J. Jr., and Gabe; and granddaughters, Devon Madison, Lashay Hall, A’shiyha, and Grace Ann. He is also survived by his sisters, Lucille Estes of Palatka, Margie (Jim) Fielder, Sharon Sue Frazier, and Angela (James) Rogers of Madison County, Kathy (Guy) Cooper and Staci (Willie) Hymer of Estill County. James is also survived by his brother, Lanny Glenn Profitt of Estill County; Mae Pearl (James) Woods, Maggie Tyson (Arthur) Smith, Mary Alice (Leon) Cruger, Cecil Sanders, and Marvin (Melanie) Sanders, all of Starke; along with a host of beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts
James will be cremated and, in accordance with his wishes, laid to rest at Jacksonville National Cemetery. Though his earthly journey has ended, his steadfast spirit, quiet strength, and enduring love will remain with all who were blessed to know him.
PAID OBITUARY
Conner Rizer
Conner Cade Rizer passed away suddenly Thursday, July 2, 2026, leaving family and friends heartbroken by his loss but eternally grateful for the time they shared with him. Conner was known to many as a hardworking man whose dedication and good heart touched the lives of everyone who knew him. He approached life with an unwavering work ethic, devoting his career to welding, a trade he embraced with pride and skill. Whether at work or in his personal pursuits, he brought a purity of character that was evident in his every action. Family and friends recall how he always had a ready smile and a light-hearted nature that lifted spirits and made any gathering brighter. Conner’s love for life was also reflected in his passions. He cherished working on cars, finding both challenge and joy in every project he undertook. The gym became a second home for him, a place to push boundaries and find strength. Fishing brought him peace and reflection, and playing video games offered laughter and camaraderie with those closest to him. Above all, he treasured the bonds with his family and friends. He loved his brothers deeply and held a special place in his heart for Jadyn, his confidante, companion and his everything. He was a devoted son to his mother, Christy Rizer and father, Jonathan Rizer; and a caring brother to Micheal Rizer, Mitchell Rizer, Destiny Jones, and Ashlyn Jones. He was also a proud grandson of John and Regina Rizer, known as “Mimi” and “Papa;” grandfather, Ralph Noblitt, affectionately known as “Papa Punk;” and grandfather, Tommy Goodbread. Conner valued the warmth and support of his extended family as well. He is survived by his brothers-in-law, Walker and Dalton Starling; and mother and father-in-law, Cynthia and Joey Starling. Special friends and companions like “Bear,” Conner and Jadyn’s dog, who will forever remember the joy he brought into their lives. Conner leaves behind numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.
Conner’s memory will also be honored by remembering those who have gone before him, including his grandmothers, Karen Noblitt and Marie Goodbread; and cousin, Courtney Burdeshaw.
Family, friends, and all who knew Conner are invited to pay their respects and support one another at a visitation with the family on Thursday, July 9, from 5 p.m. until 6 p.m. at Archer-Milton Funeral Home, 55 N. Lake Ave., Lake Butler, 32054. A Celebration of Life will follow at the same venue from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m., where memories and stories will be shared in remembrance of Conner’s kind spirit and lasting impact. Friends and family members are encouraged to share memories and stories at his service. Conner Cade Rizer will be remembered not only for his abilities and accomplishments but for the happiness he brought and the example he set with his love, laughter, and friendship. He will truly be missed.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve Conner’s family during this extremely difficult time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Daina Smith
With hearts that are forever changed, we announce the passing of our beloved Daina Mae “Peep” Smith, who left this world on Friday, July 3, 2026, at just 17 years old. Born Aug. 6, 2008, Daina lived in Lake Butler, where she filled the lives of those around her with laughter, love, and a personality that could never be forgotten. She was sweet, until you made her not be, and anyone who knew her smiled at that truth. Beneath her feisty spirit was a heart bigger than words can describe. She had a fire in her spirit, a quick wit, and a heart that loved fiercely. She found joy in (annoyingly loud) music, books, and side questing in Shaqueefa. She had a way of turning ordinary moments into unforgettable memories. Whether she was laughing with friends, singing along to her favorite songs, or simply being her unapologetic self, she made life brighter for the people around her. What people will remember most, though, is her heart. Daina would give you the very last thing she had if she thought it would make you smile. She loved deeply, cared without hesitation, and never wanted to see someone hurting. Her generosity, loyalty, and beautiful spirit touched more lives than she will ever know. She was preceded in death by her father, Cedric Smith; grandparents, Connie Berles, John Berles, and Sharon Presley; and cousins, Ashley Plotts and David Jr.
Daina is survived by her loving mother, Crystal Smith; her brother, Branden Smith; grandparents, Deborah Oakes, Timothy and Judy Smith; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and countless friends who became family. Each of them carries a piece of her in their hearts. Seventeen years could never be enough. Though our hearts ache with the loss of her, we are grateful for every laugh, every hug, every memory, and every moment we were blessed to share with Peep. She leaves behind a love that cannot be measured and a space that can never be filled. We will miss her every day, but we will carry her with us always, in every song that reminds us of her, every story that makes us laugh, and every act of kindness done in her memory.
Family, friends, and all who knew Daina are invited to pay their respects and support one another at a Celebration of Life on Friday, July 10, at First Baptist Church of Lake Butler, beginning at 6 p.m. My beautiful PeepaPie, you were loved beyond words, and you will be missed beyond measure. Until we meet again, you will forever remain in our hearts. I love YOU. All the way to the moon and the stars and the sun. And all the way back.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve the Smith family during this extremely difficult time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Michael Sutton
Mr. Michael Edward Sutton, a longtime resident of Starke, died Monday, July 6, 2026, at his home following a long illness. Mr. Sutton was born in Fernandina Beach on April 6, 1956, to the late Frank and Fay Sutton, and had lived in the Bradford County area most of his life. He was a graduate of Bradford High School, Class of 1975 and served as a sergeant in the Army National Guard. He worked as a carpenter for many local construction companies. He was a member of New River Hunting Club for almost 40 years and was of the Baptist faith. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Richard, Gary and Carrie Sutton.
He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Brenda Couey; three daughters, Tara Ann (Kenneth) Leneave, Helena Bath and Brandie (Derek) Page; one son, Michael Edward Sutton II; one sister, Carol Robinson; his grandchildren, Chase and Emily Lee, Whitney Holsenbeck, Morgan (Austin) Parker, Mallory Homer, Aaron Akridge, Macey (Dalton) Rose, Trinity Flanders, Kylie Frew, and Mary Beth (Tyler) Valdez, along with numerous great-grandchildren.
A service to celebrate his life will be held at a later date. For further information call Williams-Thomas Downtown, 352-376-7556. Pease visit his memorial page at williamsthomasfuneralhome.com.
PAID OBITUARY
