Barbara Duttinger
Barbara S. Duttinger, 89, of Melrose, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 26, 2025.
A graveside service will be held Saturday, Oct. 11, at 10 a.m. at Keystone City Cemetery.
Diane Godwin
Diane Cox Godwin, beloved and caring mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend to many, passed into her Savior’s arms on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, at the age of 74. Diane was a lifelong resident of Bradford County. She was a caring yet feisty individual from childhood onward. In her teens, she was known for being a fierce competitor in several sports, drag racing her Comet, and being a no-nonsense type of person. Little changed as she became an adult, where she remained competitive in her hobbies. She traded in fast cars and ball tournaments to provide for her family and put their care and well-being above everything else. Before she started being affected by illness, she could be found at bass fishing tournaments and was still unafraid to slide into third base when playing a game of kickball, like she was still in her 20s playing travel softball. She retired from the Department of Children and Families after several decades of working both in Starke and Gainesville offices. She never actually retired and always remained active. She loved tending to her gardens, flowers, and yardwork, while also continuing to fish and hunt regularly. She also enjoyed music, but more than anything she loved spending time with her family and friends and ensuring they were doing well. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Estelle Cox; husband, Harold Godwin; sisters, Carol Cox and Gwen Cox; and grandson, Randy Carlton.
She is survived by her brother, Steve (JoAnn) Cox; sons, Kevin (Donna) Jordan and Ray “Frog” (Kirsten) Jordan; grandchildren Rhett Jordan, Lilly Jordan, and Joey (Carrie) Carlton; great- grandchildren, Wade, Bailee, and Mason Carlton; along with several cherished nieces, nephews, and other extended family.
A memorial visitation celebrating her life will be held Thursday, Oct. 9, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel. The family appreciates the support and care so many provided as she went through the rigors of illness and passed. In lieu of flowers and cards, we would like to suggest making a donation in honor of Diane Cox Godwin to Haven Hospice at www.havenhospice.com/donate Or to University of Florida Alzheimer’s and Cognitive Disorders Research Fund at https://www.uff.ufl.edu/giving-opportunities/001741-alzheimers-and-cognitive-disorders-research-fund/
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
Clifton Griffis
Mr. Clifton Eugene “Cliff” Griffis, 95, of Starke, went to his Heavenly home peacefully on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025. Clifton was born May 1, 1930, in Starke to the late Eugene and Ada Griffis and was a lifelong area resident. He was a graduate of Bradford County High School and proudly served in the Florida National Guard for 35 years. He was an active member of Madison Street Baptist Church and served the Lord for many years there. He was very active with the COPS (Concerns of Police Survivors) organization, which helps families struggling with the loss of their law enforcement officers. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by son, Del Griffis; and siblings, Hazel Jolin and Ray Griffis.
Survivors are his loving wife of 61 years, Lanette Griffis of Starke, son Kevin Griffis; and daughter, Sharon (Chip) Scheetz. He was a proud “Papa” to his grandchildren, Adam (Amanda) Scheetz, Nash Griffis, Cory (Charles) Eddleman) and Naomi Griffis. He was also known as “Papa G” to his precious great-grandchildren; niece, Karen Shepard; and nephew, Andy Griffis.
The family received friends at Madison Street Baptist Church on Monday, Oct. 6. A celebration of life followed, with Rev. Chip Scheetz officiating. Interment followed at Crosby Lake Cemetery.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Janie Hunter
Mrs. Peggy Jane “Janie” Hunter, 88, of Starke passed away peacefully Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, at Haven Hospice in Orange Park. She was born Feb. 25, 1937, in Jacksonville to the late Ozie and Minnie Ethel (Gordon) Rogers. She was a devoted homemaker and had a passion for life that shone through in all she did. She loved fishing, cooking, shopping, and gardening, but above all, she cherished spending time with her family. Her warm and loving spirit will be missed by all who knew her.
She is survived by her beloved husband of 58 years, George Mack Hunter; and their three daughters, Janell (Daniel) Damato of Jacksonville, Marty (Sam) Cooler of Middleburg, and Kim (Michael) Crockrell of Keystone Heights. She was lovingly called “Granny” by four grandchildren, Natalie (Jody) Wright, D.J. Damato (Whitney) Kaylee and McKenzie Griffis; and seven great-grandchildren, Noah Damato, Nash and Noel Broussard, Curran and Nolan Davis, Ronan and Rocco Damato.
A visitation was held Wednesday, Oct. 8, at DeWitt C. Jones Chapel, followed by services, with Pastor Bobby Epps officiating. The burial was private at Crosby Lake Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Haven Hospice, 745 Blanding Ave., Orange Park 32065.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke. 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Juanita Jenkins
Mother Juanita Jenkins, 87, passed away Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, at Aviata at North Florida. She was born in West Palm Beach. She attended local schools and was a 12th grade graduate. She attended Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Gainesville.
She is survived by sons, Terry Jenkins and Rick Jenkins, both of Gainesville; daughters, Anita Jenkins McCarter and Audrey Jenkins, both of Gainesville; sister, Mildred Griffin of Starke; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
The viewing will be at Haile Funeral Home Inc., 802 Oak St., Starke on Friday, Oct. 10, from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. Services will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 11, at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, 2505 NE Eighth Ave., Gainesville, officiated by Pastor Destin Williams. The Cortege will form at 10:50 a.m. at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Oddfellow Cemetery, Starke.
Haile Funeral Home, 802 Oak St., Starke, is honored to provide services to the family of Mother Jenkins.
PAID OBITUARY
Joyce Johnson
Brenda “Joyce” Johnson, 73, of Starke, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025, at Baptist Medical Center South in Jacksonville. Joyce was born Oct. 12, 1951, in Jacksonville to the late Clyde and Nellie Griffin Dyer. She was raised in Jacksonville and graduated from Robert E. Lee High School. Shortly after school, she married her high school sweetheart and forever companion, Jerral Lee Johnson, on Nov. 28, 1970. Together they shared 41 wonderful years of marriage and were blessed with two amazing children and three precious grandchildren. From an early age, she knew her calling was to help others, loved to learn, and had a profound gift for teaching. She furthered her education at University of North Florida, proudly earning her bachelor’s degree. She and Jerral made Bradford County their home in 1977, where she devoted her career to education. She served as a teacher with the Bradford County School System for 31 years, retiring in 2010. More than anything, she was a woman of deep faith and a believer of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. For years, she was a member at Madison Street Baptist Church, Sampson City Church of God, and, more recently, had attended Evergreen Baptist Church. She loved worshipping with and being near her church family when she was able. In her spare time, she found joy in gardening, reading, and, most of all, spending time with her beloved grandchildren. She was a true treasure, was greatly loved and will be forever missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents; and her loving husband, Jerral Johnson
She is survived by her children, Kimberly Ann (Jeff) Johnson of Jacksonville and Greg (Erin) Johnson of Lawtey; brother, Michael Dyer; grandchildren, Abbigail, Madilyn, and Braxton Johnson; along with many extended family members and friends.
A Celebration of life was held Saturday, Oct. 4, at Evergreen Baptist Church in Lawtey, with Dr. R. Wayne Wright officiating. Interment followed at Crosby Lake Cemetery. Her family received friend on Friday, Oct. 3, at Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel.
Arrangements were 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
Mary Mosley
Mary Alice Mosley, born Nov. 8, 1949, was dismissed from this life Monday, Sept. 29, 2025. She attended R.J.E. and Santa Fe College. She was a dedicated and faithful member of Pleasant Grove Community Church, where she served on the Usher Board for many years.
Services will be at Truevine Ministries on Saturday, Oct. 11, at 11 a.m.
Margaret Pritchett
Margaret Avie (Crews) Pritchett, 94, of Lake Butler went to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, at her home surrounded by loving family. She was born in Union County to Lonnie and Dessa Crews. She was a proud graduate of Union County High School. She and her beloved husband, Marvin Pritchett, devoted their lives to Union County, giving of their time and their hearts. After Marvin’s passing, Margaret continued to support Union County, honoring the legacy they had built together, keeping their shared love for this community alive. She worked at Gainesville Gas and Farmers & Dealers Bank before working alongside Marvin, keeping the books for Pritchett Timber and as office manager of their Napa Auto Parts business, where she stayed until she retired. Her presence remained woven in the family business long after her retirement. Family was her heartbeat. Holidays at her home were filled with food, laughter and joy. She loved watching her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren enjoy Easter-egg hunts, Thanksgiving feasts and the opening of gifts at Christmas! She loved to travel with family and friends. She and Marvin had many adventures. Their travels included many places across this country and abroad. Margaret was involved in countless community organizations and a devoted member of First Christian Church. In her final days, a red cardinal perched faithfully outside her bedroom window. It felt to family as though Marvin was waiting to welcome her into heaven. She was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, Marvin Pritchett; brothers, Malcom and L.J.; and sisters, Cindy and Vivian. She is survived by her children, Carl Drake, Greg (Rena) Drake, Denise (Mike) Willis, Phillip (Emily) Pritchett, Robin (Ronny) Pruitt, and Jon (Kelly) Pritchett. She was “Nanny” to her cherished grandchildren, Nicole (Damian), Austin, Ashley (Jordan), Sidney (Aaron), Luke, Loren, Kendyl (Ashton), Elizabeth, Catherine, Erika, Preston (Nicole), Alexandra and Christina. She also leaves behind her beloved great-grandchildren, Bailey, Graysen, Kennon, Rhett, Drake, Zeke, Levi, Audrey and Avie Kate. Her family is beyond grateful for the gift of her 94 years of faith, resilience and love. Her legacy will live on through her family and every person that was graced by her presence.
A Celebration of Life was held Thursday, Oct. 2, with Brother Art Peterson officiating and assisted by Brother Shane Collins. The family received friends for a visitation Wednesday, Oct. 1. All services were at First Christian Church of Lake Butler. The family would love to extend their appreciation and gratitude to all of her caregivers through the years, whom she loved so deeply, along with Haven Hospice for their support during the most difficult time.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home was honored to serve the Pritchett family during this time. www.archerfuneralhome.com 386-496-2008
PAID OBITUARY
Marnell J. Rogers
Marnell Rogers, 79, of Palatka passed away Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, at her home following an extended illness. A native of Tifton, Georgia, she had lived here for many years. Marnell had worked as a factory worker, a hairdresser and a server for many years. She loved to sing and play the guitar with her kids and also loved being surrounded by her family, listening to them read her Bible stories. She was a member of Southside Baptist Church and loved her Lord and family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lester Junkins, and Lenell Thues; brothers, Kirby Thues and George F. “Buddy” Cason; grandson, Justin R. Chambless; great-grandson, Tucker Edwards; and son-in-law, Mike Thomas.
She is survived by three daughters, Dora Thomas, Deborah (James) Griffis and Donna (Bill) Brundage; sons, Ronald Chambless and William M. Chambless; along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were Monday, Sept. 22, at Johnson-Overturf Chapel, Palatka with Brother Shaun Thomas, officiating. Burial followed at Oak Hill West Cemetery. The family received friends prior to the service. Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at Marnell’s Book of Memories page at
www.j-ofunerals.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marnell, please visit our floral store.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.
PAID OBITUARY
Douglas Rudd
Douglas Lynden Rudd of Keystone Heights passed away peacefully Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and love for his family and country. Born in Albany, Georgia, to Jennie Clarissa Carlson Rudd and Walter Lyal Rudd, he carried the values of honor, integrity, and perseverance throughout his life. A proud United States Air Force veteran, Doug enlisted on Oct. 11, 1974, and served in the Strategic Air Command with distinction. Rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, throughout his career, he earned numerous medals and decorations in recognition of his commitment and service to his nation. He also pursued academic excellence, obtaining a master’s degree, and exemplified leadership both in uniform and in life. His passion extended beyond his military career. A devoted outdoorsman, he cherished gardening, tending to his plant nursery, cultivating blueberries, beekeeping, and immersing himself in the beauty of nature. He was a loving father to Matthew and Andrew Rudd and a proud grandpa, affectionately known as “Grandpa Doug,” to Henry. He is also survived by his brother, Brad Rudd; and stepmother, Mary Rudd.
A funeral service will be held at Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home on Monday, Oct. 14, at 2 p.m. Following the service, a graveside service with full military honors will be held at Keystone City Cemetery, 7304 State Road 100, Keystone Heights, 32656.
Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. 352-473-3176.
Doug’s life was a testament to duty, devotion, and the enduring love of family. He will be remembered as a patriot, a leader, and a man who found joy in both service and the simple pleasures of the natural world.
PAID OBITUARY
Judith Spell
Mrs. Judith (Judy) D. Spell, 82, of Hampton, passed away peacefully Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, at UF Health Shands Hospital. Judy was born on Jan. 13, 1943, to the late Charles “Omer” and Viola (Cory) Lefebvre in Owensboro, Kentucky. She resided in Miami until 1972 when she moved to the Hampton-Lake area. She enjoyed horseback riding and showing, fishing and all outdoors adventures. In addition to her parents; she was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Ed Spell.
She leaves behind a son, Stephen (Tammy) Spell and their daughter, Ashley Spell; daughter Connie (William) Muse and their children, Debbie, Shaun, Brad (Kristin) and their children, Aubrie, Emery and Blake Muse.
She is at peace in the arms of our Lord with the rest of her family and husband in Heaven above. The family received friends at the funeral home Monday, Oct. 6. Graveside funeral services were held Tuesday, Oct. 7, with Pastor Bobby Epps officiating. Interment was at Santa Fe Cemetery.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke. 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
