Alton David Jones Sr., 81, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016, at the Warner Center-Community Hospice Nassau in Fernandina Beach following an extended illness.

A native of Yulee, he was the son of the late Benjamin Edward and Dorothy Davis Jones. He was also preceded in death by his first wife of 25 years, Maudie Pope Jones.

Mr. Jones is survived by his wife of 32 years, Gloria Harter Jones; brother, Marvin Edward Jones (Mary Ann) of Fernandina Beach; sister, Gail Jones Haddock of Port St. Joe, Fla.; daughter, Cheryle Jones Blanchard (Keith) of Napoleonville, La.; sons, Alton David Jones Jr. (Janet) of Mountain Home, Idaho, Mark Tracey Jones (Diane) of Napoleonville, Daniel Cole Peterson (Amy) of Jacksonville, and Adam Spencer Peterson (Kelly) of Yulee; 12 grandchildren, Miranda, Sherri, Amanda, Randy, Melanie, Mallory, Nicholas, Gracie, Raelee, Carson, Levi and Addilyn, with two grandchildren preceding him in death, David and Brandy; 12 great-grandchildren, Dillon, Beaux, Tyler, Ashlyn, Chiquita, Orry, Christian, Nicole, Hailey, Ryan, Madison and Bailey; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Alton was a graduate of Yulee High School, where he enjoyed playing basketball. Alton was fortunate to be selected as one of Nassau County’s Top 50 Athletes. In the 1970s, he was busy coaching his sons on their Little League teams.

Mr. Jones served his country in the Army from 1955 to 1957. His last rank was specialist third class. He was employed with Lucent Technologies for 47 years.

Through the years, his leisure time was spent fishing, hunting and taking family vacations. In his retired years, he could be found on the golf course with his buddies two to three times a week.

Alton was very active in church, serving as a deacon. He served as chairman of deacons numerous times at Springhill Baptist and Blackrock Baptist churches for many years.

Alton’s caring nature was apparent to all who knew him. He will always be remembered for his strong devotion to his Savior, Jesus Christ. His kind, loving and gentle spirit will be missed by family and friends.

A celebration of his home going will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, at Blackrock Baptist Church in Yulee. Viewing will be at 10 a.m. He will be laid to rest with military honors at Springhill Baptist Cemetery following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent in the form of a donation to the Blackrock Baptist Church Vision Fund or Northeast Florida Community Hospice.

Eternity Funeral Home and Cremations – Nassau

Alton David Jones Sr., 81, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016, at the Warner Center-Community Hospice Nassau in Fernandina Beach following an extended illness.

A native of Yulee, he was the son of the late Benjamin Edward and Dorothy Davis Jones. He was also preceded in death by his first wife of 25 years, Maudie Pope Jones.

Mr. Jones is survived by his wife of 32 years, Gloria Harter Jones; brother, Marvin Edward Jones (Mary Ann) of Fernandina Beach; sister, Gail Jones Haddock of Port St. Joe, Fla.; daughter, Cheryle Jones Blanchard (Keith) of Napoleonville, La.; sons, Alton David Jones Jr. (Janet) of Mountain Home, Idaho, Mark Tracey Jones (Diane) of Napoleonville, Daniel Cole Peterson (Amy) of Jacksonville, and Adam Spencer Peterson (Kelly) of Yulee; 12 grandchildren, Miranda, Sherri, Amanda, Randy, Melanie, Mallory, Nicholas, Gracie, Raelee, Carson, Levi and Addilyn, with two grandchildren preceding him in death, David and Brandy; 12 great-grandchildren, Dillon, Beaux, Tyler, Ashlyn, Chiquita, Orry, Christian, Nicole, Hailey, Ryan, Madison and Bailey; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Alton was a graduate of Yulee High School, where he enjoyed playing basketball. Alton was fortunate to be selected as one of Nassau County’s Top 50 Athletes. In the 1970s, he was busy coaching his sons on their Little League teams.

Mr. Jones served his country in the Army from 1955 to 1957. His last rank was specialist third class. He was employed with Lucent Technologies for 47 years.

Through the years, his leisure time was spent fishing, hunting and taking family vacations. In his retired years, he could be found on the golf course with his buddies two to three times a week.

Alton was very active in church, serving as a deacon. He served as chairman of deacons numerous times at Springhill Baptist and Blackrock Baptist churches for many years.

Alton’s caring nature was apparent to all who knew him. He will always be remembered for his strong devotion to his Savior, Jesus Christ. His kind, loving and gentle spirit will be missed by family and friends.

A celebration of his home going will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, at Blackrock Baptist Church in Yulee. Viewing will be at 10 a.m. He will be laid to rest with military honors at Springhill Baptist Cemetery following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent in the form of a donation to the Blackrock Baptist Church Vision Fund or Northeast Florida Community Hospice.

Eternity Funeral Home and Cremations – Nassau

Mary Louise Schumacher Kurtz died on Amelia Island on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016, after a life of 101 gracious and eventful years.

She was born Sept. 16, 1915, in Paulding, Ohio, to Mary Clara Bolley of Florida, Ohio, and William Mark Schumacher of Archbold, Ohio.

She was predeceased by her brothers, Paul and Victor, and sister, Lucille.

She is survived by her son, Ronald Hayden Kurtz of Fernandina Beach.

A lover of tennis, horsemanship, sharpshooting, swimming and golf, she balanced these passions with extensive training in classical music. She was an accomplished pianist and organist. She never met a book she didn't cherish, and after graduating from Hiram College, she earned a master’s degree in library science from Case Western Reserve. She retired as the head librarian of the Ephrata Community Library.

During World War II, she served in the American Red Cross in the Pacific Theater, and it was in Saipan that she met and married the late Myers Richard Kurtz. A life of travel followed, ranging from Hawaii to the state of Washington; Pittsburgh; Wurzburg, Germany; Washington, D.C.; New Orleans; San Antonio; with years spent in New York City and Lancaster, Pa. She encouraged, inspired and materially supported her husband throughout their years of marriage, assuring him that he could achieve the American dream of an advanced education and an exemplary career in the U.S. Army and as a nationally recognized hospital administrator.

In 1994, she accompanied her son as he relocated to Amelia Island. She was granted a dignified, respectful transition due to the compassionate assistance of Northeast Florida Community Hospice, Nassau County Council on Aging and our local Emergency Services who many times, with great dispatch, provided help without complaint at all hours of the day and night. Her life was enriched by her appreciation for beauty … for music … for words and thoughts of substance.

Please allow the flowers to flourish afield and omit arrangements. Donations in her memory can be made to the Nassau County Public Library or the Nassau County Humane Society. Services to be announced.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Delores Maria McNeil, 56, returned to her heavenly home on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2016, after a protracted battle with cancer. 

Her devotion to her family and her firm belief in God supported her in her struggle and ultimately gave her peace. 

She was the daughter of the late Pete and Evelyn McNeil.

Maria was born April 8, 1960, and departed this life at the Nassau County Community Hospice.

Maria was educated in Nassau County and graduated from Fernandina Beach High School in 1978. She worked in various health-care and food-service jobs over the years. However, Maria’s passion was community service and working with children. She volunteered for Elm Street Little League for more than 30 years and received an award for her dedicated and faithful service in February 2016. She called the games and kept score in the press box until her health failed.

She was baptized in the Catholic church at an early age and attended St. Michael. She was affiliated with various service organizations: American Legion Auxiliary No. 174 and Oceanfront Temple No. 1058.

Maria leaves to mourn her memories three children, Terrance Roberts (Kim), Telmesha Thomas (Keith) and Willalee “Wooda” Smith; nine grandchildren, Teanna, Carmesha, Terrance “Tiny T,” Temari, A’Mari, Tiara, Terryn, Jayla and Jia; seven sisters, Wanda (Robert), Michele, Minnie (Larry), Patricia, Diana, Christy and Cynthia “Twee”; three brothers, Jesse, Pete and Tommie (Cheryl), and preceded in death, Alvin; aunts, Barbara (Earley), Grace (James), Pamela (Thomas) and Pearl; and uncles, Oscar, Johnny and Thomas (Sandra). She also leaves to mourn a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends who will treasure her memory always.

Maria’s devoted friends are Terry Lee Roberts and Kevin Smith. Also devoted to her are her friends, Abe and Laura Coggin, Keith Smith, Carmen Emory; cousin, Janice Ancrum; and godfather, Wayne Tyler.

The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 11, at First Assembly of God, 302 S. 14th St., Fernandina Beach, the Rev. Edwin Shick, pastor. Bishop Jeanette Richo, pastor, will officiate.

Ricky Leroy Simmons was born Sept. 12, 1950, in Fernandina Beach, to the late Joseph Simmons Sr. and Rose Ann Rice-Simmons.

During his younger days, Ricky attended Peck High School. Ricky was a part of the Class of 1968. During high school, Ricky was very involved in sports. Although he was a basketball star, Ricky’s true passion was football, where he was known as “The Superstar.”

Ricky went on to play college football at The Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, also known as “FAMU.” Ricky (No. 86) played offensive end. After college, Ricky joined his father in the family business as a fisherman until his health would no longer permit.

With his loving family at his bedside at the Community Hospice Warner Center in Fernandina Beach, Ricky peacefully answered the call of God on Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016.

Ricky was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Sarah Simmons.

Ricky leaves to cherish memories of his unique laugh and affectionate smile two daughters, Rose Ann (Barry) and Cindy; seven grandchildren, Dellaney “Shay” (Reco), Devaney “Dee Dee,” Jeremy, Nicholas, Fantasia, Ryan and Chrystia; one great-grandchild, Reco Jr.; siblings, Rose Ann (Willie), Joseph Jr. (Ida), Edward (Charmaine), Evett, Tammy, Chris and Troy; and special aunt, Eartha Holzendorf. Ricky loved and appreciated his devoted son-in-law, Barry. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends. 

Funeral service will be at noon Saturday, Nov. 12, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 715 Ash St., Fernandina Beach. The late Mr. Simmons will rest at the church for visitation of friends on Friday, Nov. 11, from 5-7 p.m. and again in the church on Saturday from 10:30 a.m. until hour of service. Interment will be in Bosque Bello Cemetery by the Northside Chapel of Marion Graham Mortuaries, 1504 Gandy St., Jacksonville, 765-0310.

Marion Graham Mortuaries, Northside Chapel, Jacksonville

Jack Armentrout, 87, of Fernandina Beach passed away Saturday, Nov. 12, 2016, at Baptist Health in Jacksonville. 

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Brian Head, 44, of Yulee, passed away Sunday, Nov. 13, 2016, at his home in Yulee.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Mr. Nelson Joseph Mayo, 88, of Fernandina Beach, passed away on Friday, Nov. 11, 2016.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

John Orr, 88, passed away Saturday, Nov. 12, 2016, at Baptist Health in Jacksonville. 

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Walter Howard Bunch, 78, of Fernandina Beach, passed away Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016, at his residence. Born in Leesburg on Sept. 22, 1938, he was the son of the late Jake and Frances Bunch.  

Howard grew up on beautiful Amelia Island and sold the Fernandina News-Leader on horseback as a child. He and his brother Gary ran wild in Fort Clinch, and they could pass for Native Americans because their skin was so dark from swimming and fishing on the beach. Their mother, Frances, felt comfortable sending them out in the morning and not expecting to see them until afternoon. By age 11, Howard loved to be in the woods hunting alone and primarily enjoyed seeing the wildlife, hearing the sounds of nature and feeling the tranquility the woods and sea provided.

He graduated from Fernandina Beach High School and loved the Class of ’57, who have remained close through all the years.

He joined the Navy in September 1957 and served on the CVA-61 USS Ranger until his honorable discharge in 1959. Howard cherished the opportunity to explore many postwar countries in the Caribbean, South America and Southeast Asia. He often shared many stories of his visits to Trinidad, Brazil, Chile, Peru, Mexico, Philippines, Japan and Hong Kong with anyone who would listen. Howard developed a great love of photography, which allowed him to document his adventures throughout his life.

As a father, Howard was always fishing, camping, boating and dune buggy riding with his family and friends. His family’s hearts are filled with lots of fond memories of the many weekends spent on the south end of the island and on the Nassau River hanging out together. His children and grandchildren share his passion for nature and the outdoors.

Howard Bunch lived for drum season, a love he inherited from his father, Jake, and brother, Gary. He always had a pole in the water, and one of his few regrets was not signing up for the Drum Tournament one year in which he caught an 85-pounder. Of course, he would have won!

Howard had a warm heart and a radiant smile he shared with every person in every country he visited and all over this island. He had a genuine interest in each person he touched and prayed for them each day. One of the most significant days of his life was the day Tom and Barb King shared their message of the forming of Holy Trinity Anglican Church, where he found peace, contentment and love. His newfound love of Jesus and the wonderful church family ignited his spirit and lit a fire in him to serve the Lord with full devotion, which he did lovingly until his last days.

He leaves behind his wife of 40 years, the former Pat Cottle; two sons, James and Michael Bunch of Fernandina Beach; his brothers, Jerry, David and Dennis (Sarah) Bunch, all of Fernandina Beach; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, at Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Fernandina Beach. 

Entombment with military honors will follow in the Holy Trinity Anglican Columbarium.

The family will receive friends at the church after the service in the Scott-King Fellowship Hall. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the American Cancer Society, 1430 Prudential Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32207; and Holy Trinity Anglican Church, 1830 Lake Park Drive, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Marie Belle Strange Gill, 102, passed away Sunday morning, Nov. 13, 2016.

Mrs. Gill was born Oct. 28, 1914, in Jacksonville and moved to Yulee in 1984 from Jacksonville. She was a member of the 1932 graduating class of Andrew Jackson High School and a member of Yulee Baptist Church.  

She loved to work in her yard and was an avid reader. She always had an interest in news and weather. Mrs. Gill lived a love story with her beloved late husband, Joseph E. Gill.  The two of them were in love at first sight and were married for 72 years until Mr. Gill's death in 2008.

She was also predeceased by her parents, Claude B. Strange Sr. and Nellie Marie Frank Strange; three sisters, Blanche Strange, Mary Ann Haynes (Frank M., deceased) and infant Nellie Marie Strange; and two brothers, Claude B. Strange Jr. and Charles H. Strange.

Survivors include four daughters, Joann Carroll, Christine Grovenstein (Dan McCarthy), Lindy Cox (William F.) and Andrea Norouzi (Dr. Ebrahim); three brothers, Frank A. Strange, Harold Strange and Joseph D. Strange (Shirley); two sisters-in-law, Sherry Strange and Rose Gill; one brother-in-law, Vernon Gill; nine grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 18, in the Stephens Chapel at Green Pine Funeral Home with the Rev. Doug Sides officiating. Interment will follow in Green Pine Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the time of service Friday at the funeral home.

To sign Mrs. Gill’s online register book, please visit the Green Pine website at www.greenpinefuneral.com.

Arrangements by Green Pine Funeral Home.

Green Pine Funeral Home

Freeland Harris, 85, passed away Sunday, Nov. 13, at the Community Hospice Jane and Bill Warner Center for Caring in Fernandina Beach, surrounded by his family.

Born in Madisonville, Ky., on Nov. 24, 1930, Freeland Harris was the only son and second of three children born to Freeland F. and Georgie Elizabeth Myers Harris.

His elementary and high school years were completed in Madisonville and, in September 1948, Freeland entered the University of Kentucky College of Engineering, having been granted a Kentucky Highway Department scholarship. 1948 was the first year the Kentucky Highway Department awarded such scholarships. Freeland began his college career majoring in civil engineering, but that career path was interrupted by the Korean Conflict. In April 1951, Freeland began military service in the United States Navy (Sea Bees), serving as a carpenter in base construction with the Construction Battalion MCB8 and MCB4 – Atlantic Fleet. His tour of duty took him to Newfoundland, Cuba and French Morocco before his honorable discharge in April 1955 as petty officer 1^st class.

In September 1956, Freeland re-entered the University of Kentucky as a junior majoring in civil engineering. While completing his bachelor’s degree, he was employed part-time as a designer/draftsman in the Kentucky Department of Highways’ Branch Bridge Office located in the Engineering Quadrangle. In 1957, Freeland was inducted into the Tau Beta Pi Honorary Engineering Society. He was awarded a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering in January 1958 with a major in structural engineering. In that same month, Freeland was employed as an engineer-in-training with Leggett & Irvan Consulting Engineers of Lexington, Ky., a professional practice that included the design of structures for schools, office buildings and highway bridges.

Also in January 1958, Freeland entered a master’s degree program at the University of Kentucky College of Engineering and, in May 1960, was awarded a Master of Science in civil engineering with a major in structural engineering.

Freeland became licensed as a professional engineer by the Commonwealth of Kentucky in May 1960. In 1962, his professional career was directed to the Army Corps of Engineers as a field engineer for the construction of the Barkley Lake Dam, Powerhouse and Canal Bridge. 

In April 1965, Freeland organized his private engineering practice in Madisonville as Freeland Harris Consulting Engineers. Originally, the practice encompassed primarily the structural design of educational facilities. In 1981, the office was relocated to Bowling Green, Ky.; in 1988, the office became headquartered in Lexington. In 1981, and continuing to the present, the design practice for Freeland Harris Consulting Engineers has encompassed primarily the structural design of industrial facilities for the global design-build market. In 1991, an additional office was established in Atlanta. After 1995, Freeland continued practicing as a consultant to FHCE KY and FHCE GA. A third office, located on Amelia Island, was established in 2005, and from the Florida location he continued to practice full-time as a structural consulting engineer. In 2012, Freeland was awarded the Civil Engineering Career Achievement Award by the University of Kentucky College of Engineering. In 2016, at the age of 85, Freeland retired from the practice of structural engineering. Mr. Harris was a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, American Institute of Steel Construction, American Concrete Institute and the National Society of Professional Engineers.

He was also a member of the Madisonville Noon Kiwanis Club.

For many years, Freeland was a Sunday school teacher and deacon in the Baptist church. Freeland was most recently a member of Fernandina First Baptist Church in Fernandina Beach and participated at Amelia Baptist Church. He was a member of the Friday Men’s Bible Study group at Amelia Baptist Church. He was a member of the Cecil Brewton Life Group of Fernandina First Baptist Church. 

Freeland has enjoyed three hobbies through the years: sailing, cycling and University of Kentucky basketball. Go Cats!

Mr. Harris leaves behind his wife of 58 years, Patricia Brown Harris of Amelia Island; his children, Dan Owen Harris and his wife, Ginger, of Hickory, N.C., Susan Hall Harris Massey and her husband, Hank, of Suwannee, Ga., Lee Ellen Harris Marmon and her husband, Craig, of Atlanta, and Edward Freeland Harris and his wife, Leigh, of Atlanta. The family also includes eight grandchildren known as “The Grand Eight.” The grandchildren are Georgianna Harris, Rachel Harris, Lauren Massey, Sarah Massey, Andrew Marmon, Harris Marmon, Will Harris and John Harris. Freeland is also survived by two sisters, Beverly Harris Dockrey and her husband, D.W. Dockrey, and Jeanette Harris Yates and her husband, Morris Yates.

Funeral services will be held at the Barnett-Strother Funeral Home in Madisonville at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 19. The family will receive friends in Madisonville from 4-7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 18, and on Saturday an hour before the service.

In Fernandina Beach, the family will receive visitors at Fernandina First Baptist Church from 4-6 p.m. Nov. 22. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fernandina First Baptist Church or Amelia Baptist Church.

Ester Clelia Holt, 96, left this earthly plane and joined her heavenly family on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016.

She spent her last days in the loving care of the Northeast Florida Community Hospice in Fernandina Beach surrounded by her five children, her grandchildren and her great-grandchildren.

Ester was born in Sant’Apollinare, Italy, on Sept. 23, 1920. Her mother, Latizia Neri Assante, her father, Erasmo Assante, and her three brothers, Joseph Assante, Harry Aris and Carl Assante, came to the United States in 1929 through Ellis Island.

Ester served honorably as one of the WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service) in the United States Navy during World War II. 

Those who knew Ester will remember her loving devotion to Jesus Christ, her Savior, and her unwavering faith. 

Ester is survived by her children, Gaylynn Holt Brenoel (Michael), Gary Holt (Cheryl), Deborah Holt, Peter Holt (Antoinette) and Mary Holt Speir (Randy); grandchildren, Lance Lucas (Mandy), Shawn Lucas (Samantha), Garrett Holt (Melissa), Tage McMann, Maria Holt LeStrange (Jeff), Carolyn Holt Woodard (Chris), Jeff McMann, David Holt (Yasi), Ian Speir (Breanna), Amy McMann Black (Ken), Elizabeth Speir Willis (Keith), Courtney Speir Jemison (John) and Daniel Speir; and great-grandchildren, Austin McMann, Lisa Lucas, Nolan Willis, Alesia LeStrange, Cameron Vespoli, Abi Lucas, Ryleigh Holt, Seth Speir, Lydia Woodard, Jenna LeStrange, Gavin Holt, CJ Woodard, Abigail Vespoli, Isaac Speir, Evelynn Speir, Olivia Lucas, Olivia Jemison, Branson Willis, baby John Jemison and baby girl Lucas.

She touched the lives of so many people and leaves her friends with the gift of wonderful memories of her love and friendship.

She was laid to rest at Greenlawn Cemetery at 4300 Beach Blvd. in Jacksonville on Saturday, Nov. 12.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Northeast Florida Community Hospice, 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257. Specify Fernandina Beach location. Donations may also be made to Jews for Jesus (http://jewsforjesus.org) 60 Haight St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Baptist Medical Center Nassau and Northeast Florida Community Hospice for their loving care and support and to the U.S. Navy for the beautiful graveside service honoring Ester Holt’s service in WWII.

Mrs. Mary Leola Johnson, 88, a longtime resident of Fernandina Beach, passed away on Saturday morning, Nov. 12, 2016, at the home of her daughter in Axson, Ga.

Born in Lake Butler, she was the daughter of the late William Leslie and Ethel Theo Duren Williams. She grew up on the family farm in Lake City and attended Mason High School in Lake City. She left Lake City and moved to Jacksonville, where she met her future husband, Alton Monroe Johnson. They were married on Oct. 9, 1944, and made their first home on the Westside of Jacksonville. In 1952, they relocated to Fernandina Beach, where her husband worked for ITT Rayonier. Mrs. Johnson began working for Terminal Bag in Yulee in 1956 and remained until retiring as a machine operator in 1972.  

She enjoyed being a homemaker, cooking, shopping and being independent.

She had been a longtime member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Alton Monroe Johnson, who passed away in 1997; a son, Alton David Johnson, who passed away in 1992; and brothers and sisters, Sevena Wilkerson, Lena Crawford, Myrtice Swilley, Jim Williams, Nita Williams, Lester Irene Luke, Ruby Cersey, Arthur Williams, Marietta Williams and Charles Brannen.

Mrs. Johnson leaves behind her two daughters, Jo Ann Johnson Park and her husband, Lamar, of Axson, and Deborah Johnson Rich and her husband, Clint, of Fernandina Beach; a brother, Buck Williams of Lake City; two sisters, Reba Carter of Fort White and Loretta Hubert of Branford, Fla.; grandchildren, Vennis Holt “Doodle” Pipkin, Theresa Lynn “Teri” Bradley, Robert David Johnson, Cherry Ann Wood, Clinton Ryan Rich, Lindsay Brooke Rich and Brantley Corinne Jaramillo; great-grandchildren, Kyle, Hannah and Holt Pipkin, Dalton and Dawson Bradley, Brandon and Christian Johnson, Ashley and Stevie Wood, Brookland and Bryce Hall, Max and Parker Kate Pisani, Joaquin Jaramillo, Penelope Jaramillo and Wyatt Rich; one great-great-grandson, Landon Johnson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be at noon Wednesday, Nov. 16, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with President Tony LiCausi presiding and Elders Ron Miller and Lamar Park conducting. 

Mrs. Johnson will be laid to rest beside her husband in Bosque Bello Cemetery.

Her family will receive friends at the church from 11 a.m. Wednesday until the hour of service.

Please share her Life Legacy and leave your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Christopher Lee McKendree, affectionately known as “Bubba,” “Pee Wee” and “Chris,” 35, of Yulee, passed away on Saturday, Nov. 12, 2016.

Born in Fernandina Beach, he was the son of Tony Lee McKendree and Linda Louise Estes. He was a lifelong resident of Nassau County and had grown up and lived in Yulee. Since the age of 2, Chris had battled illnesses that required treatments that had a negative impact on his heart that resulted in a heart transplant at the age of 14. He lived his life to its fullest, never letting his condition override his desire to be active and involved. He worked with his father in the landscaping business for a number of years, as well as in construction on the new Yulee High School.

He and his family have been longtime members at Blackrock Baptist Church.

“Bubba” was an avid outdoorsman, devoting many hours to hunting, fishing and collecting roadside treasures. He was a fan of the Georgia Bulldogs and the Dale Earnhardt NASCAR racing team.

His family recalls his Southern courtesies of saying “yes, ma’am” and “yes, sir.”

He leaves behind his father, Tony McKendree and his wife, Tammy, of Yulee; his mother, Lynn Strickland and her husband, Dale, of Kingsland; his paternal grandparents, Jack and Betty McKendree of Yulee; maternal grandfather, Charles Estes and his wife, Carol, of Yulee; maternal grandmother, Faye Leslie and her husband, Les, of Yulee;  sisters and brothers, Ashleigh McKendree of Yulee, John Strickland Jr. of Hilliard, Sabrina Morris of Hilton Head, S.C., Joseph Ed Strickland of Jacksonville, James Destin Strickland of Middleburg, Jeff Harrell of Yulee, and Jason Harrell of Jacksonville; his special aunt, Joyce Maryea of Yulee; uncle and aunt, Dan and Tina McKendree; special cousins, Avah Strickland, Lilli Cooke and Joshua McKendree; as well as a host of additional family and friends.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 18, at Blackrock Baptist Church with the Revs. John Kasper and Frank Camarotti officiating.

Mr. McKendree will be laid to rest in Green Pine Cemetery.

His family will receive friends on Thursday, Nov. 17, from 5-7 p.m. at Oxley-Heard.

Please share his Life Legacy and leave your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors   

Mr. Robert Brandon Sylvester, 33, of Yulee, passed away at his home on Thursday morning, Nov. 10, 2016.

Born in Fernandina Beach, he was the son of Teresa Sylvester and Robert Skipper.  Brandon grew up in the Crandall area of Yulee and attended Fernandina Beach High School. As a young man, he began a career that he loved as a heavy equipment operator.  He had worked for Florida Roads and for the past seven to eight years had worked for Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Co. During his off time, Brandon worked for Samsonite on the north side of Jacksonville.

Brandon was a happy, big-hearted guy who loved being a comedian around his family and friends. An avid fan of the Florida State Seminoles, he enjoyed playing his guitar, singing karaoke and mud bogging in his Jeep.

Brandon leaves behind his mother, Teresa Sylvester of Yulee; his father, Robert “Skip” Skipper of Fernandina Beach; his son, Kaedyn Wingate of Yulee; a sister, June Ramage of Fernandina Beach; a brother, James Riggs of Yulee; and many extended family and friends.

Funeral services were Tuesday, Nov. 15, in the Burgess Chapel of Oxley-Heard.

Brandon was laid to rest in Hughes Cemetery.

His family received friends on Tuesday at the funeral home before the service.

Please share his Life Legacy and leave your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Michael Lee Tauscher, 59, of Bluffton, S.C., passed away in his home Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016. He was born in Rivera, Calif., on Oct. 14, 1957, to Murray Leon and Lillian Geneavee Tauscher. 

He was a U.S. Marine veteran, serving during the Gulf War in Desert Storm. Following his service, he became a commercial truck driver. 

Mike was a devoted, loving husband to Karen. He loved and enjoyed family and friends. To his country, he honorably served and fought while forming a brotherhood bond with his fellow servicemen. 

He leaves behind his wife, Karen, of 12 years. He is survived by a son, Michael Anthony Tauscher; and three stepchildren, Jennifer Galara, Kurt Kuchenbrod and Kendra Kuchenbrod. He will be missed by three grandchildren, Gideon Tauscher, Allyssa Stewart and Carter Kuchenbrod. His siblings, John (Katie), Matthew (Diane) and Jodi Tauscher also will miss his wonderful sense of humor and friendship.

Friends and family are welcome to attend a memorial service that will be held in Calvary Baptist Church in Fernandina Beach at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 19. His remains will be laid to rest alongside his fellow Marines at the Arlington National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to Hospice Care of the Lowcountry, Bluffton; and the Wounded Warrior Project.

Mrs. Patsy E. Woodle, 88, formerly of Fernandina Beach, passed away at the home of her son, in Yulee, on Wednesday morning, Nov. 9, 2016.

Born in Bowling Green, Fla., she was the eldest child and only daughter born to the late Bertie Lamar and Flossie Bell Hancock Bryan. In the early 1940s, her family moved to Fernandina, where she graduated from Fernandina High School. After high school, while working for a local judge, she met Carl H. Woodle, a Florida state trooper. Miss Bryan and Mr. Woodle would marry on Jan. 5, 1948. They moved away from Fernandina for a brief period with Trooper Woodle’s assignments. After returning to Fernandina, Mrs. Woodle joined Container Corporation of America, where she worked in the Planning Department until retiring after 22 years. After retiring from Jefferson Smurfit, she served as the caregiver for her mother and husband until their passing. While in her 70s, Mrs. Woodle traveled worldwide, enjoyed multiple extended cruises and toured almost every state in the U.S.

She had been a lifelong member of Memorial United Methodist Church in Fernandina Beach.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Henry Woodle Sr., who passed away in 1999.

Mrs. Woodle leaves behind her children, Linda C. Steele of Brunswick, Ga., Carl H. Woodle Jr. and his wife, Joyce, of Yulee, and Janice L. Herren of St. Augustine; her brother, Glen Bryan and his wife, Joan, of Newport, Tenn.; two grandchildren, Brian Michael Woodle (Kayla) and Christopher Alan Woodle; two nephews, Ted Bryan (Jamie) and Philip Bryan (Debbie); and a niece, Elaine Morgan (Dan).

Funeral services were Friday, Nov. 11, in the Burgess Chapel of Oxley-Heard with Pastor Frank Camarotti officiating.

Mrs. Woodle was laid to rest with her husband in Bosque Bello Cemetery.

Her family received friends Friday at the funeral home before the service.

Please share her Life Legacy and leave your comments and memories at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Our father, Jack Edward Armentrout, passed away Saturday, Nov. 12, 2016. His nickname to everyone who knew him was "Happy Jack." 

He was warm and kind and always happy. He was loved by everyone who knew him but most of all by his two daughters, Stacey and Christine. He was the best father a daughter could have. He lived for the two of us. There aren't enough words to truly express how blessed we are to have had him as our father. We love him very much and will miss him every moment. 

Our Dad is also survived by his loving brother, Joel Armentrout. 

In lieu of a service we ask that, wherever you are at happy hour, you raise a beer to our Dad, Jack "Happy" Armentrout. 

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

The teacher who walks in the shadow of the temple, among his followers, gives not of his wisdom but rather leads you to the threshold of his own mind. - By Kahlil Gibran

Rychard S. Cook II, called home by our Lord on July 19, 2016, was the youngest of three siblings. His life was shared by older sisters who preceded him in death: Dr. Nettie Cook- Dove (Joshua Jr.) and Laura Lee Cook. The three were reared by his mother's oldest sister, the late Ms. Annie M. Cook, an elementary school teacher and strict disciplinarian to whom good manners were imperative.

A native Fernandinian, Rychard grew up in the Sunday School of First Missionary Baptist church and received his early secular education at Peck High School, where as a student he entered and won a song writing contest that gave Peck High its Alma Mater. In 1951, along with his classmate Mrs. Vernita Johnson Holmes, he graduated as Co-Valedictorian. He received a four year scholarship from the state of Florida and attended Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, Florida. In 1955, he was awarded a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology, and in 1963, he earned a Master of Arts degree in School Librarianship at the University of Denver in Colorado.

Mr. Cook’s stellar career in the educational field was inspired by three outstanding individuals, all now deceased: Mrs. Mamie T. Jordan (music), Mrs. Edythe J. Thurston (communication skills), and Mrs. Dorothy Sanford Love (librarian extraordinaire). For his life’s work, Rychard chose librarianship as a profession and music as his avocation.

Mr. Cook began his teaching career in Nassau County at Peck High School as a substitute teacher. After two weeks, he became a full time teacher at Milner-Rosen Wald Academy in Mt. Dora, Florida. As a Miami-Dade County public school employee, Mr. Cook has taught at West Homestead Elementary-Junior High School, Dunbar Elementary, Miami Northwestern Senior High, Coral Park Senior High, Miami Jackson High, Horace Mann Middle, Holmes and Westview elementary schools. Mr. Cook retired from Westview Elementary as a Media Specialist on June 18, 1999, after spending 42 years of dedicated service in Florida's public schools. An avid reader, Mr. Cook spent hours reading mystery novels and researching African-American history and culture. He was a devoted Toni Morrison fan. He encouraged many African Americans to learn more about their roots, during his serious study of Black History. In 1967, he founded the Afro-Americans, a readers’ theatre group that included his childhood friend Dessie Horne Williams, and which promoted the study of Black History and Culture through its prose, poetry, and song.

Mr. Cook was a life member of the Zora Neale Hurston Society, and was affiliated with the Black Archives, History and Research Foundation of South Florida, The Theodore R. Gibson Oratorical and Declamation Contest, The Association to Preserve the Eatonville Community Inc., William J. Faulkner's Friends of Folklore, The American Library Association, and Dade County Media Specialist Association. Those organizations provided Mr. Cook with many excellent opportunities for the rendering of community service, an activity to which he brought serious and steadfast commitment.

Mr. Cook's extensive travels took him to such places as West Africa, England, Germany, Scotland, Wales, the Netherlands, Iceland, Canada, The Caribbean, France, and Italy. From his travels, he gained a variety of diverse cultural experiences, which he generously shared with family, friends, students, churches, colleges, and universities.

In addition to being an enthusiastic collector of Black Art, first edition books, and collector plates, Mr. Cook was the recipient of a variety of awards including: 1995 Teacher of the Year Award, from Holmes Elementary School; Eighth Annual Sistrunk Historical Festival Award, Ft. Lauderdale, FL in 1995; Florida International University Service Awards for 5, 10, 15, and 25 years of service; and Eighth Annual Theodore R. Gibson Project Award, 1986

Mr. Cook completed 26 years of service as a librarian at Florida National University. His life ambition was to complete his writings on the life and works of Zora Neal Hurston.

Until his demise, Mr. Cook received loving and around- the- clock care in the Orlando home of his son Dave Thompson and wife Elizabeth .Their sons Kristian and David loved their Grandfather dearly and spent many happy hours listening to his wonderful stories and receiving the benefit of his wise counsel.

Mr. Cook leaves to mourn his passing: His Son Dave (Elizabeth) Thompson of Orlando Florida. Grandchildren: Kristian Thompson of Miami Florida and David Thompson of Orlando Florida. Special friend who shared the same passion of wanting to help youth reach their fullest potential: Dessie Horne Williams of Miami Florida. Nephews: Joshua Kenneth Dove III.  & Richard Holland. Nieces: Beverly Dove (Leo) Ross, of Richmond, VA and .Ingrid Bernadette Dove of Atlanta Georgia. Grand Niece: Joy Nicole Ross. Grand Nephew: Raymond Williams and Joshua Kenneth (Angelique) Dove VI. Cousin: Yvonne Fisher. Goddaughters: Rosemarie Crocker, Almeta Birch & L. Ann Cumbie-Patterson (Lester). Godsons: Robert Battle of New York, Evan MacArthur of Japan and Petty officer Aston Cumbie Farquharson of Honolulu, Hawaii. Extended Family members: Joe &Eula Johnson, Earl Robinson, Ron Henry, Roy Moultry, Veronica Wellington, Charles (Bridgette) MacArthur, Bernice Horne Edgecombe-Tel-Saint (Amelius). And many other relatives and friends too numerous to mention.

He will be sorely missed.  

Memorial services will be held at, The First Missionary Baptist Church on Friday August 5 2016 at 6:00pm.22 South 9th Street, Fernandina Beach FL 32034.

In lieu of flowers donation can be made to Nassau County Community Development Corporation, Inc. for the Rychard-Lottie-Annie Cook Scholarship. Address: P.O. Box 16382, Fernandina Beach, FL 32035.

Tiffany Griffin, 42, of Fernandina Beach, passed away Friday, Nov. 18, 2016.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Scott Alan Hargreaves, 54, of Fernandina Beach, passed away Thursday, Nov. 17, 2016. No local services are planned.

Green Pine Funeral Home, Cremations & Cemetery

Ronald Lee Lerman, 67, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2016, at his Amelia Island residence. No local services are planned at this time.

Green Pine Funeral Home, Cremations & Cemetery

Harry Johns, 72, of Yulee, passed away Saturday, Oct. 15, 2016.

He was born Sept. 18, 1944, in Hilliard to Franklin and Georgia Johns.

Mr. Johns was a graduate of Yulee High School, Class of 1963. He served in the Army for two years in Hawaii, attaining the rank of E-4.

He worked at Terminal Bag in Yulee for 39 years. He loved playing basketball and fishing with his brothers.

Mr. Johns was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Thomas F. Johns.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Lucille Johns; his sister, Lessie M. Johns; a brother, Eugene (Shirley) Johns; three nieces; and two nephews.

Harry E. "Doc" Jones Sr., 80, passed away Sunday morning, Nov. 20, 2016, at his Yulee residence.

He was born April 30, 1936, in Sterlington, La., and had been a resident of Yulee for the past 60 years. Mr. Jones retired after 42 years of employment at Container Corporation in Fernandina Beach. He was a journeyman millwright and was well-respected by all of his peers. He coached Yulee Little League baseball for six years and enjoyed traveling and fishing. He was a fan of LSU sports. Mr. Jones was of the Baptist faith.

He was predeceased by his son, Jessie Sam "Buster" Jones.

Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Jimmie M. Jones; sons, William E. Jones (Rena), Roger W. Jones (Dee), Harry E. Jones Jr. (Paula) and George R. Jones (Christina), all of Yulee; a daughter, Debby J. Steele (Thad) of Fernandina Beach; a brother, William L. Jones of Yulee; one sister, Cleva White of Monroe, La.; 20 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and many friends.

The family received friends Monday evening, Nov. 21, at Green Pine Funeral Home.

Graveside funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon, Nov. 22, at Green Pine Cemetery with the Rev. Pete Jones officiating.

To sign Mr. Jones' online register book, please visit the Green Pine website at www.greenpinefuneral.com.

Arrangements by Green Pine Funeral Home.

Green Pine Funeral Home