James Ballinger
James David Ballinger went to be with our Heavenly Father on Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. He was born Nov. 20, 1981.
Survivors are his wife, Amber Ballinger; son, Dalton Ballinger; mother, Sarah (Bruce) Prater; father, David Ballinger; sister Ashley (Troy) James; grand-parents, Alice (Jim) Brown and Wyvonna Thorp; two nephews, Jesse and Clayton James; aunt, Susan Jackson; and uncle, Saun Thorpe.
Till we meet again. Love and miss you!
A memorial Celebration of Life will be held Monday, March 10, at 5 p.m. at 102 S.E. 44th Ave., Starke.
PAID OBITUARY
Joetta Croft
Joetta Croft, 83, of Lulu, passed away peacefully Friday, Feb. 21, 2025, at UF Health Shands Hospital. Born on Aug. 15, 1941, on the Union/Columbia County line, she was a lifelong resident of Union County. After graduating from Columbia County High School in 1959, she married the love of her life, Travis “Slim” Croft, later that year. She soon began working at Belk’s before she and Travis opened Croft’s General Store in Lulu. She left the store to take a job at the GE battery plant before finally dedicating 23 years of her life working for J.C. Penney’s until her retirement. She was not only an industrious worker, but also a devoted homemaker. Her family fondly referred to her kitchen as “Nana Jo’s Buffet,” a testament to her love and passion for cooking. She also loved being outside, either working the farm, gardening, tending to her flowers, or finding a fishing hole. And she always looked forward to her annual trip to the mountains, where she loved attending arts and craft shows. She was a humble woman of faith who truly embodied kindness. Her personality was characterized by a warm and loving spirit; she never uttered a cross word to anyone. She was a Godly woman who many people would lean on in troubled times. She was preceded in death by her brother, Randall Ashley “Sonny” Johnson; daughter-in-law, Lara Croft; great-niece, Elizabeth “Liz” Lavoie, and great-nephew, Garrett Dicks.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 65-plus years, Travis “Slim” Croft of Lulu; children, Kim (Tommy) Beasley of Providence and Willie (Amy Packham) Croft of Palestine; grandchildren, Nathan (Bethany Jackson) Beasley, Chaton (Selena) Croft, Datein (Hunter) Ash, and Case “Boo” (Emily Hillard) Croft; and great-grandchildren, Kimberlynn, Aliza, Emeri, Elsie, Trip and Madison. She is also survived by her brothers, Gary (Ellen) Johnson and Mitchell “Sugarfoot” Johnson; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
A funeral to honor her life was held Tuesday, Feb. 25, at her church, Lulu Baptist Church. The family received friends for a visitation on Monday, Feb. 24, at Archer-Milton Funeral Home. She was laid to rest at Swift Creek Cemetery.
Arrangements were under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler, 386-496-2008. www.ArcherFuneralHome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Timmy Hackney
Timmy “Tim” D. Hackney, 67, of Keystone Heights passed away Monday, March 3, 2025, at Haven Hospice Custead Care Center Orange Park. He was born Nov. 20, 1957, in Madison, West Virginia to the late Paul and Shelby (Bradshaw) Hackney. He was a retired maintenance supervisor and painter. He was of the Baptist faith and enjoyed being outdoors fishing, golfing, and sitting around bonfires. He was also known for being a “project” person and loved making others laugh.
He is survived by the love of his life, Tina (Baker) Hackney of Keystone Heights; children, Jason Hackney (Josh Schuster) and Garrett Hackney, all of Jacksonville, Ethan (Jasmine) Edwards of Raleigh, North Carolina and Caitlin Edwards of Orange Park; along with siblings, Tammy Snipes and Kevin Snipes, both of Starke. He was lovingly called “Papa” by Gavin Harlow and Paislee Hackney.
The family will receive friends Friday, March 7, beginning at 1 p.m. at DeWitt C. Jones Chapel. Funeral services will begin at 2 p.m. Interment will follow at Keystone Heights Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke 32091. 904-964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Vivian Horton
Vivian Ruth Horton, 85, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025, at E.T. York Hospice Care Center. Born Feb. 13, 1940, in Cohasset, Massachusetts, her journey through life was marked by loving dedication, compassion, and an infectious joy that uplifted all around her. Her career as a registered nurse spanned over five decades, a testament to her unwavering commitment to caring for others. After completing her nursing education, she devoted 23 years of service to South Shore Hospital in Weymouth, Massachusetts before relocating to Florida. There, she continued her noble profession at Lake Butler Hospital, pouring her heart into her work for an additional 29 years until her well-deserved retirement. Her influence in the lives she touched as a medical caregiver will not be forgotten, her legacy woven among the many who benefited from her dedication. Outside the walls of the hospital, she embraced life with a zest that few could rival. She was a fervent lover of Disney, a passion that inspired countless trips to the magical parks—an annual pass-holder, she visited multiple times a year. The joy Disney brought to her reflected her personality; bright, whimsical, and always seeking adventure. A keen collector of tea pots, her home was a warm haven filled with memories and treasures she cherished. But above all, her profound love for her dog, Summer, was a testament to her nurturing spirit and kindness. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Milton and Olive Rogers; husband, Albert Horton; her long-time companion, Clarence Harvey Gobin; and brothers, James Russel Rogers and Donald Robert Rogers.
She is survived by her sons, Kevin (Patricia) Horton and Scott Horton (Krystyna Zielinska), all of Keystone Heights; her grandchildren, Kelsey (Nic) Robideau, Lauren Horton, and Lucus Horton; and she eagerly anticipated the arrival of her great-grandson, Oswald Robideau. She also leaves a sister-in-law, Geraldine Rogers; along with nieces and a nephew; former daughter-in-law, Tammy Evans of Williston; and her lifelong friends, Lisa Perez of Lake Butler and Anne McKinnon of Rhode Island.
Friends are invited to gather to celebrate her life on Saturday, March 8. A visitation will begin at 1 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 2 p.m., at Archer-Milton Funeral Home in Lake Butler. She will be laid to immediately following the service at Dekle Cemetery.
It is the pleasure of Archer-Milton Funeral Home to serve the Horton family. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
James H. Norman
James Howard Norman, born Sept. 15, 1957, in Lawtey, departed this world Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025, at UF Health Shands in Gainesville, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. He devoted 25 years of his life to the noble profession of a correctional officer, serving at New River Correctional Institution until his retirement. He then became a devoted employee for Walmart in Lake City for the next several years. A true southern man, he was known for his generous heart and unwavering dedication to family and friends. He was the kind of man who would do anything for anyone, always placing the needs of those he loved above his own. Whether he was out fishing or tinkering away on his beloved cars, he found joy in simple, country pleasures, surrounded by the laughter of family, friends and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis Howard Norman and Mary Lou Rosier Hilliard; and his sister, Mary Francis Johns.
He is survived by his wife, Theresa Norman of Sanderson; and their daughter and son-in-law, Susan “Missy” and Robert Walker of Melrose. He was a proud grandfather to Noah and Brandon Ogg, as well as a doting great-grandfather to little David Ogg. The family tree also includes step-grandsons, Garreth Miller, Colby Walker, and Mitchell Walker, who reside in Colorado.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life and honor his memory. Visitation will be held at the New River New Congregational Methodist Church in Raiford, on Wednesday, March 5, starting at 1 p.m., followed by a funeral service beginning at 2 p.m. He will be laid to rest immediately following the service at Dyal Cemetery in Starke. Services will be officiated by Pastor Jimmy Scott and Jamie Williams.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home of Lake Butler is honored to serve the Norman family. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Benjamin Norsworthy
Benjamin E. Norsworthy, a loving husband, father and friend, passed away Friday, Feb. 21, 2025, at the age of 44. Born Feb. 5, 1981, he was a skilled handyman who enjoyed working on projects around his home. He took great pride in providing for his family and creating a warm and welcoming space for them. His greatest joy was spending time with his loved ones. He cherished every moment with his wife, children, and extended family. His kindness, generosity and infectious smile touched the hearts of everyone he met. He was preceded in death by Donald Glenn; sisters; Lisa Brown and Janet Norsworthy; and brother, Everett Norsworthy.
He is survived by his loving wife of 15 years, Tonya; children, Benjamin (Maisyn) Norsworthy, Kaytlyn (Omarion) Norsworthy, and Brad Norsworthy; stepchildren, Tayler (Brandon) Brown and Dylan Phillips; and many nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 4964 N.W. 182nd Way on Thursday, March 16, at 12 p.m. If you would like to attend, contact Tonya at 904-629-0350.
Rest in peace, Ben. Your love, smile and legacy will be deeply missed.
PAID OBITUARY
Connie Oppenlander
Mrs. Connie Jo Oppenlander, 86, of Keystone Heights died Monday, March 3, 2025, at Roberts Care Center in Palatka. She was a homemaker and longtime member of Park of the Palms. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, Harold Ray Oppenlander, on Feb. 6, 2025.
She is survived by her children, Mitzi Vermuelan and Christopher Hudson.
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
Harold Oppenlander
Harold Ray Oppenlander, 85, of Keystone Heights died Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025, at Haven Hospice in Gainesville. He was a retired systems analyst and longtime member of Park of the Palms. His wife of 45 years, Connie (Belk) Oppenlander, died Monday, March 3, 2025.
Survivors are his children, Jo Ann Crysel and Gerald Oppenlander.
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
Allegra Saunders
Allegra Hayes Saunders, 93, passed away peacefully at her home in Lake Butler Monday, March 3, 2025. Born Dec. 14, 1931, in Starke to the late Calvin and Annie Hayes, her life was marked by faith, love, and an unwavering commitment to her family and community. For 20 remarkable years, she served as a beloved school bus driver for Union County Schools, forging lasting bonds with the children and their families. Her outgoing personality made her a cherished figure in the lives of many, as she brightened mornings and afternoons with her warmth and kindness. A proud graduate of Union County High School, she not only excelled academically but also showcased her athletic prowess on the basketball court. Her love for the game continued during her time at Florida State University, where she played ball with fervor and dedication. Her undying spirit and zest for adventure were evident in her hobbies; she was an avid water skier, demonstrating her remarkable skills even into her 80s, proudly skiing on one leg until the age of 81. The joy she found at her lake house in Keystone, where laughter echoed during summer days filled with skiing and family gatherings, will forever remain a treasured memory for all who knew her. Her impact extended beyond her career and hobbies. She was a co-founder of the Union County Riding Club, further contributing to her community spirit. As an active member of First Baptist Church of Lake Butler, she held various roles over the years, expressing her love for teaching through her ladies’ group. She often joked that she had held every position except for pastor, a testament to her dedication and generosity of spirit. Her favorite pastime, however, was riding her bike throughout town. A staple to the Lake Butler community, the cheerfulness she brought to others will be deeply missed. She was preceded in death by her cherished husband, Arthur Jesse Saunders; her beloved daughter, Sandy Saunders Hazen; siblings, Eloise Dobbs, Joyce Ward, George Hayes, and C.B. Hayes; and her parents, Calvin and Annie Hayes.
Her family was the center of her universe. She is survived by her son, Steven (Diane) Saunders of Lake Butler; grandchildren, Suzanne (Eddie) Norman of Lake Butler, Ashley (Steven) Floyd of Cody, Wyoming, and Adam Hazen of Keystone Heights; and great-grandchildren, Garrett Norman of Washington, D.C., Cale Norman of Lake Butler, Colton Cox of Lake Butler, and Annie Floyd and Claire Floyd, both of Cody, Wyoming.
Family and friends are encouraged to honor her at a graveside service at Dekle Cemetery Thursday, March 6, at 10 a.m.
It is the privilege of Archer-Milton Funeral Home to honor Mrs. Allegra and her family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Xavier Warren
Xavier Duane Warren was born Nov. 16, 1990, in Wurtzburg, Germany to Darrell DeWayne Warren and Patricia Reid Warren. He was delivered back to our Lord and Savior on Monday, Feb. 24, 2025. Prior to going away to college, he faithfully assisted at Union Missionary Baptist Church, Barstow, California, in working the audio/visual system and assisting his father with other church-related duties. He was educated in various school systems due to his status as a military child. He graduated from Excelsior High School, Victorville, California, and went on to complete a degree at Barstow College in Barstow, California. From there he went on to attend San Jose State University. His last place of employment was at San Francisco International Airport for United Airlines in San Francisco, California. He was preceded in death by his paternal great-grandfather, Deacon William Blake Reeves; paternal great-grandmother, Sister Lillie Mae Reeves; maternal grandmother, Virginia A. Reid; biological grandmother, Nettie Lee Webb; and paternal grandfather, Tilman H. Thompson.
He leaves behind his beloved parents, Darrell and Patricia Warren of Helendale, California; beloved sister, Yienessa D. Warren of Las Vegas, Nevada; loving grandparents, Morris and Olla Mae Paige of Raiford; loving aunt, Lakia D. Paige; aunts, Terri V. Reid and DeShawn C. Reid of Pendleton, South Carolina; uncles, Ronald M. (Seretha) Reid of Chicago, Illinois, William (Bill) (Grace) Marshall of Atlanta, Georgia, David Lee and John (Dagwood) Lee of Anderson, South Carolina; nieces, Taleya Smith, Tie’ara and Armani Poole; and a host of relatives and friends.
PAID OBITUARY
Chase Wilson
Mr. Chase Bradley Wilson, 24, of Lawtey passed away Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2025, from injuries he sustained in an automobile accident. He was born in Gainesville June 20, 2000, to Charles Bradley and Carol Jean “Jeannie” (Massey) Wilson. He was raised in Starke and graduated with the Class of 2018 from Bradford County High School. Following graduation, he became a plumber, working with Phillip McDonald Plumbing. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, riding 4-wheelers, living life to its fullest, and just being a breath of fresh air. He was a “giver,” always helping when someone called on him. He was funny, enjoyed cutting up, telling jokes, and loved making others laugh; he was known for turning a boring day at work into a fun and productive one. He was a hard worker, and he had definitely touched many lives in the short time he was here on earth. In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Spurgeon and Carol Faye Massey; and his paternal grandmother, Minnie Ann Sparks.
He is survived by his father, Charles (Brad) Wilson; brothers, William (Jamie) Reed and Shea Wilson; a nephew, Tucker Shea Wilson; along with a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family members and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, March 15, at graveside. Interment will be at Kingsley Lake Cemetery.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke, 32091. 904- 964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
