Alvin Anderson
Alvin “Big Al” Wayne Anderson, 69, of Lawtey passed away Sunday, May 17, 2026, at Ascension St. Vincent’s Clay County in Middleburg. He was born in Starke on Nov. 28, 1956, to the late Ressie Anderson and Anna Mae Thompson Anderson. Big Al was a lifelong resident of Lawtey. Following school, he pursued his passion for over-the-road truck driving, serving over 15 years before embarking on his logging journey with several local companies. In 2000, he began driving with his adopted family at Hardee Timber Inc., faithfully serving for 25 years until his retirement. He found happiness in the simple pleasures of life. He loved spending time outdoors, where you could find him tinkering on a tractor, truck, or lawn mower. He enjoyed the quiet peace of hunting and looked forward to the excitement and challenge of pursuing the next big buck or turkey. Big Al also enjoyed caring for his many chickens, each of which held a special place in his heart. He was known to aggravate, but most of all he loved his family and friends dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Howard Elton Anderson and Larry James Anderon; sisters-in-law, Debbie Anderson and Kathleen Anderson; niece, Heather Anderson; and nephew, Marvin Lee Jr.
Big Al is survived by his siblings, Phil Anderson and Gloria Lee, both of Lawtey, and Shirley Mobley and Donna (Brad) Hildreth, both of Starke; extended family, Wayne (Kathy) Hardee, Karen (Josh) Crawford, Steven (Heather) Hardee, Michael (Amanda) Hardee, Taylor (Kyle) Parrish, Brooklyn (Dustin) Elder, Jencie (Matt) Stanwix-Hay, and Ryker, Stetsyn and Kreed Stanwix-Hay, Hunter Crawford, Macey Hardee, Chase (Katelynn) Crawford, Karlie Hardee, Kiran Crawford, and Tenly Hardee; along with several nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
A Celebration of Life will be on Thursday, May 21, at 11 a.m. at Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel with Pastor Jason Crawford officiating. The family will receive friends Thursday, May 21, from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Highland Cemetery in Lawtey.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke 32091, 904-964-5757. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family’s guest book.
PAID OBITUARY
Franklin Burgin
Franklin “Leroy” Burgin passed from this life to the presence of his loving Saviour on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. He was 79. He was born Oct. 12, 1946, in Grand Junction, Colorado. After living in numerous states, including Alaska, the family settled in the Gainesville area. Leroy graduated from GHS and attended the University of Florida, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree. He served in the United States Army for four years. He received certification and worked in the field of hematology technologist until he retired. He married Pat (Trish), and together they share a son, Richard Corey Burgin. He later relocated to the Hawthorne area, where he attended North Central Florida Baptist Church and was a member of the choir there. It is here where he developed a strong passion for sharing his love for the Lord. In response to his deep sense of gratitude for the immense suffering and sacrifice of Jesus, his self-produced acrylic painting depicts a soldier on bended knee worshipping beneath the cross. In 1989, he met Erlene Wasdin and they married Jan. 12, 1990. He always gave credit to the Lord for answering his earnest prayer for a godly, devoted wife. Together they have enjoyed many adventures as they shared a devotion to Christ and to each other. Leroy was an experienced diver, and Erlene eagerly took classes and became certified as well. Along with scuba diving, they enjoyed boating and sailing and sharing their gulf vacation home with grandchildren in the summer. He became affectionately known as “Papa B” by the grandchildren. Leroy and Erlene enjoyed traveling, even out of the country to Mexico. And to meet their newest granddaughter, Katerine Rauda Rose, they traveled to El Salvador. Erlene and Leroy moved to Hampton in 2024 to be closer to family. As the years passed, his love for nature and God’s creation was now best expressed in his landscaping and gardening skills, and daily walks. His favorite pet, a cat named Comet, would always accompany him. She is 20 years old and now misses her constant companion. Leroy enjoyed watching movies and some of his favorites of his vast collection of DVDs include “The Passion” and “The Sound of Music.” His loss is monumental to his family, but we find comfort in knowing all that he has gained. Until we meet again on Heaven’s shore, we miss you more than words can say. We love you, Papa B! He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Lila Burgin; biological parents, Frank and Margaret Lambert; brother, Albert; sister, Joyce; and granddaughter, Amanda Rose
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Erlene Wasdin Burgin, who remained faithfully by his side until his departure from this earth; his son, Richard Corey (Renee) Burgin of Dade City; brother, Ronnie Burgin, of High Springs; sister, Leanna, of Gainesville; son (stepson), Chris (Charlene) Rose of Waldo; and daughter (stepdaughter), Jilene (Billy) Tomlinson of Jacksonville. He will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Celebration of Life will be Saturday, May 23, at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Waldo 14370 Kennard St., Waldo, 32694. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Acteens program at First Baptist Church of Waldo.
PAID OBITUARY
Alan Edwards
Alan C. Edwards, 55, of Lawtey, passed away Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at Haven Hospice in Clay County. He graduated from high school and attended college, earning an associate’s of science degree. Alan was a member of Pleasant Grove Community Church, Starke. He was a supervisor at Caribbean Cold Storage.
Alan leaves precious memories to his wife, Towanda Edwards; son, Jeric Edwards; and a host of children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, cousins and many sorrowing friends.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, at Pleasant Grove Community Church, 5930 NW 177th St., Starke, 32091, with Rev. Carl Tyson Jr. conducting the services. Interment will be at Bob Love Cemetery, Starke, under the direction of Haile Funeral Home Inc., 802 N. Oak St., Starke 32091. 904-964-7905. Visitation will be held Friday, May 22, from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. at Haile Funeral Home Inc.
PAID OBITUARY
Joyce Gibson
Joyce Wells Gibson, 90, of Lawtey went to her heavenly home at Riverwood Health and Rehabilitation Center on Friday, May 15, 2026, in Starke, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born Oct. 31, 1935, to the late Newnon Hartley Wells and Minnie Mae Kirkland. She was raised in Auburndale and graduated from Auburndale High School in 1953, proudly graduating with honors. Following school, she began her career at Bell Telephone Company in Lakeland. During this time, Joyce met the love of her life, Clarence Robert Gibson, and they were happily married Feb. 18, 1956. Together they shared 64 wonderful years and were blessed with four precious children, nine grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. She was devoted to her family and treasured her role as wife, mother and grandmother. With Clarence’s career at CSX, their family traveled throughout Florida and even had a brief time in California. Throughout their travels, Joyce had careers at JCPenney, Springfield Elementary School in Plant City in their cafeteria, and, later, at Palm Avenue Exceptional Student Center in Jacksonville, serving as a teacher’s aide with special education. She felt called to help others and loved being able to serve with youth. In 1981, Joyce, Clarence and their family made Bradford County their forever home and found their church family at Morgan Road Baptist Church. For years they have been faithful members and thoroughly enjoyed worshiping alongside their fellow church family. While residing in Lawtey, she took on a new venture, earning her CDL license and becoming a mail carrier, running a local Lawtey route. Joyce found her greatest joy in the simple moments spent with those she loved most. Whether gathering around the table with family, baking cakes or desserts for special events or birthdays, sewing anything and everything for those she adored, or holding her grandchildren close, she treasured every memory made together. Her warmth, kindness, quiet strength, and unwavering love for her family will forever remain in the hearts of those blessed to know her. Joyce leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and devotion that will continue to live on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who cherished her. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 64 years, Clarence Robert Gibson Sr.; her parents, Newnon Hartley Wells and Minnie Mae Kirkland Wells; five brothers and four sisters.
Joyce is survived by her children, Sandy Helms of Plant City, Terry Jackson of Lawtey, C.R. “Robby” Gibson Jr. of Possum Trot, and Steve (Elizabeth) Gibson of Hampton; nine grandchildren, Amanda, Krissy (Mark), Nick (Kirstie), Noah, Greer, Terry, Emily, Isaiah, and Delanie; six great-grandchildren, Sydney, Levi, Hope, Kelsey, McKenzie, Kadence, and Wade; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, May 21, at 11 a.m. at Morgan Road Baptist Church with Pastor Gerry Hunter officiating. The family will receive friends Thursday, May 21, from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at the church. Interment will be at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell on Friday, May 22, at 10:30 a.m.
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 guest book.
PAID OBITUARY
Marie Heltzel
Mrs. Marie Y. Heltzel, 88, of Keystone Heights, died Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Windsor Health and Rehabilitation Center.
Survivors are her granddaughter, Terri Heltzel; and nieces and nephews.
Memorial services will be Friday, May 29, at 11 a.m. at Community Church, 345 SE Palmetto Ave., Keystone Heights, 32656.
Arrangements are with Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
Vanessa Lazzaro
Mrs. Vanessa Sue Lazzaro, 42, of Keystone Heights, passed away Sunday, May 10, 2026, at Shands Hospital in Gainesville following a short but strong battle with cancer. She was born March 21, 1984, in Jacksonville to Barbara (Otter) and the late Joseph Denton. Vanessa was a proud 2002 graduate of Bradford High School and enjoyed making countless memories with her family, including annual trips to SeaWorld and joyous summer days spent with family. Her passion for cooking and trying new recipes brought everyone together, filling their home with the delightful aroma of her culinary creations. But, most of all, she loved being a mom! An active member of the community, Vanessa cherished her time as a parishioner of St. William Catholic Church. She was known for her love of animals and her creative spirit, often participating in arts and crafts fairs.
Left behind to cherish her memory is her loving and devoted husband of nine years, Michael Lazzaro; two daughters, Amelia Lazzaro and Kandice “KK” Jackson; two sisters, Angelia Denton and Cindy Riddling; her mother, Barbra Denton; along with her father and mother-in-law, Guy and Tina Lazzaro. Also left behind are two stepdaughters, Brandy Jackson and Dakota Jackson; along with a host of additional family members and many cherished friends that will miss her dearly.
A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday, May 23, at 10:30 a.m. at St. William Catholic Church, with Father Mike Williams presiding. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Vanessa’s honor.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Robert McClellan
Robert “Bobby” Leslie McClellan, 94, of Starke, passed away peacefully at home Friday, May 15, 2025, surrounded by his family. Bobby was born in Bradford County on March 23, 1932, to the late Les McClellan and Mabel McClellan (Futch) and remained a lifelong resident of the community he loved. He grew up on a farm and attended Bradford High School. After graduating, he began his career with the Florida Department of Transportation with no formal engineering training and, through dedication and hard work, worked his way up to maintenance engineer before retiring in 2003. He often spoke fondly of his years with the department and took great pride in the work he accomplished throughout his career. He was an active and faithful member of Evergreen Baptist Church for 94 years. He was also a devoted Florida Gators football fan and could be found watching games with his son on Saturdays. He loved taking drives and spent countless hours driving his grandchildren around, later teaching them how to drive, while sharing wisdom, encouragement, and life lessons along the way. Above all, Bobby was a loving and devoted husband to his wife, Sheila, for 60 wonderful years, and a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, though he often joked he was not old enough to claim that title. His family is deeply grateful for the many healthy years and treasured memories they were blessed to share with him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Ronnie McClellan.
Bobby is survived by his beloved wife, Sheila McClellan; son, Jeffrey (Jennifer) McClellan; granddaughter, Rylee (Tyler) Wainwright; grandson, Cole McClellan; great-granddaughter, Harper Wainwright; sister, Margie (Johnny) Tomlinson; and several nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, May 22, at 3 p.m. at Evergreen Baptist Church. The family will receive friends on Friday, May 22, an hour prior to the service at his church. Interment will follow at Evergreen 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 guest book.
PAID OBITUARY
Lynn Melvin
Lynn Moxley Melvin, Oct. 23, 1959-May 16, 2026. Lynn Moxley Melvin, 66, of Brooker, peacefully passed away Saturday, May 16, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and the faith that guided her throughout her life. She was born Oct. 23, 1959, and lived a life devoted to God, her family, her students and her community. A woman of unwavering faith, Lynn was a faithful member of Brooker Baptist Church, where she served the Lord wholeheartedly throughout her life. Her relationship with Christ was the foundation of who she was, and she reflected His love through her kindness, humility, and servant’s heart. Whether through her church, her career in education or her devotion to family and friends, she touched countless lives with grace and generosity. Her legacy of faith will continue to inspire all who knew and loved her. Above all else, Lynn was the heart and matriarch of her family. She shared a beautiful 45-year marriage with the love of her life, Gene Melvin, building a home rooted in faith, laughter, and unconditional love. Together, they created a family that was Lynn’s greatest pride and accomplishment. She was a proud mother to her sons, Brian and Brad, whose lives were the center of her heart. She stood beside them through every season of life with steady love, constant support and endless pride in the men they became. Though she never had a daughter, she considered her daughters-in-law her own, embracing them with warmth, encouragement, and unwavering love. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she treasured every opportunity to make memories with them. Lynn cherished her close friendships and the special bond they shared, which remained a constant source of strength and joy throughout her life. She enjoyed family shopping trips (especially visits to Bealls Outlet for those that knew her the best), relaxing beach vacations and simply being present with those she loved most. Her home, laughter, and loving spirit created a place of comfort and belonging for all who knew her. A proud alumnus of the University of Florida, Lynn earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in education before continuing her studies at Nova Southeastern University, where she obtained her Master of Science and Educational Specialist Degree. She believed deeply in the power of education and spent her life investing in the future of others. Lynn dedicated her life and career to the children and families of the Bradford County School District. She began her career as a beloved elementary school teacher at Starke Elementary, then transferred to Brooker Elementary, where she nurtured generations of students with patience, encouragement, and love. She later moved into administration at Starke Elementary, continuing her mission to positively impact children and educators alike. She concluded her service as District 5 School Board Member for the Bradford County School Board, proudly serving the community and school district that shaped her own life. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ben, Jr. and Gwen (Netherland) Moxley.
She is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Gene Melvin; her sons, Brian (Cassie) Melvin and Brad (Jaren) Melvin; her cherished grandchildren, Paislee, Brilee, Brayden, and Moxlee, whom she adored beyond measure; and her brother, Ben Moxley III.
There will be a private graveside service for immediate family at Dedan Cemetery. All whose lives were touched by Lynn are invited to attend a Celebration of Life which, will be on Saturday, May 23, at 5 p.m. at the Bradford High School auditorium to honor the incredible legacy she leaves behind. Flower donations may be sent to Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home.
In honor of Lynn’s lifelong passion for education, the Melvin family plans to establish The Mrs. Lynn Melvin Scholarship Fund, which will support a graduating senior pursuing a career in the field of education. Lynn’s life was a beautiful example of faith in action, servant leadership, and unconditional love. Though she will be deeply missed, her influence and legacy will live on for generations to come.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 E. Nona St., Starke 32091. 904- 964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
