Richard Abell
Richard Abell, 84, died Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born in 1941, he grew up in Elk River, Idaho, where a childhood in the woods formed a lifelong curiosity about how the world works. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1960 and served for 20 years, retiring as a Senior Maintenance Chief in 1980. Sea duty and ports around the globe fed his love of travel and stories; he never tired of recounting shipboard life and the curiosities of far places. He told his stories with such excitement that you couldn’t help but get carried along. After military service, he worked as an analyst in the aerospace industry, first with McDonnell Douglas and then with Boeing from 1980 until his retirement in 2003. He valued colleagues who solved hard problems and he took pride in contributing to defense programs, including the Apache Helicopter. Family and friends remember Rich for his sense of wonder at the world. He especially loved engaging with babies, delighted by their newness and possibility. He also valued his friendships made while attending Sardis Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, CJ and Margaret; wife, Audrey; son, Joe; grandson, Sam; and sister, Sondra.
He is survived by his wife, Diane; son, Josh (Denise) Abell; brother, Robert (L.D.) Abell; stepsons, Cimaron Holt and John (Becky) Holt; three grandchildren, four great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In accordance with his wishes, no service will be held. Rich’s final memorialization will be by cremation under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Christy Chandler
Christy Chandler, 72, passed away Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, at Shands at University of Florida Hospital in Gainesville. He attended the schools of Bradford County and Moorehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. He retired from E.I. De Nemours (DuPont) as head operator. He was a member of True Vine Outreach Ministery in Starke.
Survivors are his wife, Marilyn Lee Chandler; four sons, Christopher Chandler, Tafaris Chandler, Timothy Chandler and Derik Dean; daughters. Tabatha Brown and Shacarra Chandler; six brothers, Hamp Chandler, Harold Chandler, Ross Chandler, Captain Chandler, Michael Chandler and Gregory Chander; five sisters, Mary Taylor, Sandra Chandler, Bettye Chandler, Mary Fluellen, and Juanita Phillips; and a host of grands, nieces, nephews, cousins and many sorrowing friends.
The viewing will be Friday, Sept. 12, from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. at True Vine Outreach Ministry, 422 St. Clair St., Starke. The Cortege will form at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13, at the residence of Mrs. Marilyn Chandler. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. at True Vine Outreach Ministry on Saturday, Sept. 13, officiated by Minister Edward Lamar Hamilton, Associate Pastor.
Professional services are provided by Haile Funeral Home, 802 Oak St., Starke. 904-964-7915.
PAID OBITUARY
Donald Dedge
Mr. Donald Wilson Dedge passed away Monday, Sept. 8, 2025, at the age of 78. He passed away peacefully in his sleep in Gainesville. He was born Nov. 8, 1946, and raised in Keystone Heights by his mother, Cathryn, and stepfather, Charlie. He will be remembered for his love of fishing, his sense of humor, and love for his family and friends. He served in the United States Army before starting a career as an electrician, retiring as a master electrician after more than 40 years of service with Ray’s Electric in Melrose. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 25 years, Linda Johnson Dedge; his mother, Cathryn Louise Johnson; stepfather Charlie Alvarez;s biological father Wilson Leo Dedge; and brothers Ernie Alvarez and Randy Alvarez.
His memory will live on with his children, Shannon (Randy) Blankenship and Steven (Banae) Johnson; grandchildren, Caleb (Savanna) Blankenship and Cathryn Blankenship; brothers and sisters, Larry (Kim) Alvarez, Sue Lutgens, Micki White, Kay Kight, and Kevin Alvarez; and aunts, Bonnie Rye and Earline Price. His memory will also be remembered warmly by a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, great grandchildren, and friends.
The family will be hosting a Celebration of Life luncheon at 5488 NW County Road 229, Starke, 32091, on Saturday, Sept. 13, at 1 p.m.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, , 620 E. Nona St., Starke, 32091. 904 964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
Donald Hicks
Donald Eugene Hicks, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, just two days shy of his 67th birthday, after an extended illness. Born on Sept. 7, 1958, he was raised on Smokey Road in Baker County. He graduated from Baker County High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force as a medic, stationed in Colorado Springs. After his military service, he returned to Florida and earned his degree from the University of Florida, a true Gator through and through. He dedicated 35 years of his life to the Florida Department of Corrections, where he not only found a career but also the love of his life. He met his wife, Toni, while working at the Department. Together they built a life full of love, laughter, and purpose in Lake Butler. He and Toni were married for 38 wonderful years and raised two daughters, Ashley Biddix and Amy Hicks. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Landon Biddix. He was a man of strong values, quiet strength, and a generous spirit. He had a great love for the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, and watching the skies for hawks. But one of his greatest passions was beekeeping. He found peace in the hum of the hives and took joy in tending to his bees. He loved teaching others about the art and science of beekeeping, always eager to share his knowledge and encourage anyone interested to give it a try. Whether he was mentoring a new beekeeper or showing his grandson the beauty of nature, his love for learning and sharing never faded. And while he was famously stubborn, and he’d be the first to admit it, that same stubbornness was a sign of his deep convictions, fierce loyalty, and unwavering determination. You always knew where he stood, and when he loved you, he loved you with his whole heart. He was a gifted storyteller whose tales were equal parts wisdom, humor, and heart, a voice that will be deeply missed around every gathering.
He is survived by his sister, Judy Kaye Riggle; brothers-in-law, Kenneth (Robin) Clyatt and Curtis Clyatt; sister-in-law, Prudence Pate; and a large extended family who adored him. He was a devoted and loyal brother, a title he held with great pride. As a brother to the late Woodrow Hicks and a brother-in-law to the late Frank Riggle and Kirk Pate, Donald filled the role of protector, storyteller, and steady presence. His bond with his siblings was deep, enduring, and full of heart. He was a proud uncle to many nieces and nephews, each of whom he cherished dearly, Randy Hicks, Billy Hicks, John Hicks, Dillan Clyatt, Kaleb Clyatt, Paden Clyatt, Kurstie Hicks, Danielle Mouser, Taylor Pate, and Lorrie Sweetapple. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dearwood and Inell Fish Hicks; and nephew, Ronnie Hicks.
A celebration of life was held Tuesday, Sept. 9, at Harmony Free Will Baptist Church in Lake Butler. He leaves behind a legacy of service, love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Donald Eugene Hicks was a rock to many and a blessing to all who knew him. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve Don’s family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
PAID OBITUARY
Billy Mosley
Mr. Billy “Squirrel” Jerald Mosley, 76, of Lawtey passed away Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025, at HCA Florida/North Florida Hospital. He was born Sept. 5, 1948, in Glen St. Mary to the late Ruben and Evelyn (Carter) Mosley and graduated from Orange Park High School. He was a Baptist and never met a stranger. He enjoyed car racing, fishing and spending time with his grandchildren. Prior to retirement, he worked in timber and land sales. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Coco Mosley.
Survivors are his wife of 52 years, Alene (Sweat) Mosley of Lawtey; sons, Wendell (Patty) Durrance, Timmy (Cindy) Durrance and Shane (Kelly) Durrance; sisters, Barbara (Walter) Ann Scott and ErmaJean (Jack) Mosley; and brothers, David Mosley and Cecil Mosley. Also left are his grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Papa Squirrel,” Cassie (Derek) Durrance, Bubba (Stephanie Durrance, Brittany Durrance, Shayna Durrance, Tyler Padgett and Hannah Smith; great- grandchildren, Gracie Durrance, Ryland Bass, Jaydin Alvarez, Raelynn Alvarez, Annslie Nipper, Addison Nipper, Bryar Nipper, Charlotte Padgett and Stella Padgett; along with a host of nieces and nephews.
The family received friends Friday, Sept. 5, at Long Branch Baptist Church followed by funeral services. Interment followed at Long Branch Cemetery with Joey Nolan officiating.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com.
PAID OBITUARY
Ethel ‘Vi’ Tew
Mrs. Ethel “Vi” Viona Sutton Tew, 94, of Lawtey passed away Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025, at UF Health Shands Hospital following an extended illness. Vi was born on Feb. 23, 1931, in Arcadia to the late Walter Preston and Janey Mabel (Colson) Sutton. Prior to retirement, she was a seamstress and was known as “THE DOLL LADY.” She made many dolls that became collectibles around the world, loved animals and possessed a great sense of humor. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Homer Watson Tew; and two grandsons.
Survivors are her children, Roger (Debbie) Tew of Ocala, Larry W. Tew of Lawtey, Ronald E Tew (the late Theresa) of Lawtey, Shara C. Tew of Lawtey, and Sheila T. (Marc) DeRossett of Hillard; and brother, Lamarr (Nancy) Sutton of Land O’ Lakes. Also left are her eight grandchildren and several great- grandchildren who affectionately called her “Granny.”
Graveside funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 5, at Orange Hill Cemetery in Williston.
Arrangements were by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke, 904-964-6200
PAID OBITUARY
Henry Wimberly III
Henry “Bubba” Wimberly III, 63, passed away Monday, Aug. 25, 2025, just days after celebrating his birthday Aug. 16. He was the beloved husband of Cynthia “Cyndi” Wimberly for 40 years, a devoted father to Krystle Wimberly Davis and Henry Wimberly IV, and a proud grandfather to his granddaughter, Keiara K. Hilton, age 13. Bubba was well known in our community as the owner and operator of Wimberly & Son Tree Service, where he served his neighbors with dedication and integrity for many years. Later in life, he returned to his love of the open road as a long-distance truck driver, pursuing his passion for travel and adventure. He had a lifelong love of trucks, cars, and motorcycles- anything with wheels and a motor. He enjoyed working on vehicles, talking about them, and sharing his enthusiasm with family and friends. His love of the road and all things automotive was a defining part of who he was. His kindness touched everyone he met. He truly never met a stranger. His warmth and genuine friendliness left a lasting impression on all who crossed his path, and his caring spirit will be deeply missed. His sister shared that growing up with Bubba was always an adventure, full of laughter and sometimes sadness. He was always a shoulder to lean on, and his passion for life shone through everything he did. Though his time here was cut short, the impact he made will last forever. Her brother wholeheartedly agreed. He was preceded in death by his mother, Jerry Logue; maternal grandparents, Gertrude Logue and Jerry “J.D.” Logue; younger sister, Dorothy Wimberly Richburg; and paternal grandparents, Mildred Wimberly and Henry Wimberly Sr. of Twin City, Georgia.
He is survived by his wife, Cynthia “Cyndi” Wimberly; his father, Henry Wimberly Jr.; sister, Millie Wimberly Cooper; brother, Mathew J. Wimberly; daughter, Krystle Wimberly Davis; son, Henry Wimberly IV; and granddaughter, Keiara K. Hilton. He is also survived by his nieces, Amanda Richburg and Brittany Richburg, daughters of his late sister, Dorothy; niece and nephew, Starlyn Wimberly and Garrett Arrington, children of his sister, Millie; and nephew, Matthew Wimberly Jr., son of his brother, Mathew. His legacy lives on through his loving family and friends.
He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his steadfast love for his family, his passion for anything with wheels and a motor, and his warm, generous spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness and hard work that will be cherished by all who knew him.
John 3:16-For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
The Lord’s Prayer: Our Father, who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation. But deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
PAID OBITUARY
