Jerry Harmon Fields, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., peacefully departed this life at Community Hospice & Palliative Care’s Warner Center for Caring in Fernandina Beach, Fla. on Saturday, November 30, 2019 at the age of 70 years and 4 months.

Jerry was born July 20, 1949 in Savannah, Ga. and was the son of the late Sidney Augustus Fields and Mary Lutitia Roach Fields of Pooler, Ga. Jerry was raised in Pooler and attended the Chatham County public schools. After graduating Groves High School in 1967, he attended St. Johns River Junior College on a baseball scholarship and later graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education.

Jerry served in the United States Army and was deployed to Turkey during the Vietnam Era. He was awarded the National Defense Medal.

Jerry was employed with the Fernandina Beach Police Department and served on the force for more than 20 years before retiring in 2003.

In April of 1969, Jerry was united in holy matrimony to Cheri Marie Woods. This union was blessed with three children.

Beyond Jerry’s career service, he was involved in various community organizations. Among them was his dedication to the Fernandina Beach High School baseball team and Nassau County Volunteer Fire Department.

Jerry’s favorite past times were hunting, fishing, boating, scuba diving, and golf.

He was a loving husband and father and was devoted to spending time with his grandchildren.

A “Service of Remembrance” will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, December 19, 2019 at The Journey Church, located at 95707 Amelia Concourse in Yulee, with Pastor Darryl Bellar officiating. The service will be followed by the interment ceremony at 2 p.m. at the Jacksonville National Cemetery, located at 4083 Lannie Road in Jacksonville, Fla.

Jerry was predeceased by his parents, Sidney Augustus and Mary Lutitia Fields; his son, “Brett” Sidney Fields; and his brother, James “Jimmy” Sidney Fields.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years and 8 months, Cheri Marie Woods Fields.

Jerry is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Tracie Lynn Inman (husband, Kevin) of Atlantic Beach, Fla.; his son, Christopher “Dempsey” Fields (wife Sarah) of Yulee, Fla.; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Those who wish to remember Jerry in a special way may make gifts to the Fraternal Order of Police, Nassau County, P.O. Box 1027, Yulee, FL 32041.

Eternity Funeral Homes & Cremations

Margaret (Elaine) Ramsey Bradham, 67, passed away December 2, 2019 with her grandson by her side.

Margaret was born April 9, 1952 in Fernandina Beach, Fla. to George and Margaret King-Ramsey, both deceased.

She spent her life helping others at Baptist Medical Center Nassau and then retired after more than 35 years with the Nassau County School District.

She was predeceased by a brother.

She is survived by her two grown children, five brothers and sisters, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Margaret’s celebration to honor her life will be held at 10 a.m. Sunday, December 14, 2019 at her church, Were For Jesus, located at 5000 N. Main St. in Jacksonville, Fla. A viewing will take place prior to the service. Burial will be beside her brother at Bosque Bello Cemetery in Fernandina Beach following the service.

Funerals by T. S. Warden

Carole Lee Baker, 81, was called home by our Lord on November 25, 2019. After a long and valiant battle with breast cancer, she passed in her home in Fernandina Beach, Fla. surrounded by her loving family.

Born February 12, 1938 in Dearborn, Mich., she was the daughter of the late Leon and Florence Funkhouser. She married her high school sweetheart, David Wesley Baker, on June 7, 1958. Raising her family and being a wonderful wife was her passion and purpose. She truly lived the definition of leading by example. She loved so deeply, cared tremendously for humankind, gave generously to anyone in need, and had a strength and determination that was especially recognized these last few months.

Mrs. Baker was brutally honest, but always with love. She was interested in her family’s lives and genuinely wanted to know and understand their thoughts and opinions. She was always there as a source of strength when anyone was going through the challenges of life.

In addition to her husband of 61 years, she leaves behind her daughter, Laura Rosener and husband Mark; her son, James Baker and wife Patti; her daughter, Jeanie Snyder and husband Alan; and her son, Richard Baker and wife Kathleen. Her relationships with all nine grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren resulted in a legacy of family unity, love, strength, compassion and dedication to family.

The family is planning to gather and celebrate her life later in the coming spring.

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul; he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.” – Psalm 23

The family asks that memorial contributions be made in her name to the First Coast Cancer Foundation at firstcoastcancerfoundation.org.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Rita Elizabeth Yarbrough, 94, most recently of The Lakeside of Amelia Island and former longtime resident of Cypress Village, passed away at home on November 20, 2019.

Rita was born January 1, 1925 in the small farming town of Whitelaw, Wisc. and was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 40 years, Lt. Commander Paul Yarbrough. They retired to the Jacksonville area more than 50 years ago.

During her life, she was an active member of the Mayport Military Officers Wives’ Association, charter member of the North Florida Wives’ of U.S. Submarine Veterans of World War II, member of the Northeast Florida Widow & Widowers Club, and the Red Hat Society. She performed volunteer work at Baptist Medical Center Beaches for more than 17 years.

She is survived by two daughters, Pamela M. Yarbrough (J. Allen Maines) of Atlanta, Ga. and Diane Yarbrough-Roberts (Dr. Bob Roberts) of Fernandina Beach, Fla.; and three grandchildren, Heather Roberts of Chicago, Ill., Preston Roberts (Katie) of Northbrook, Ill., and Lesli Roberts Jennings (Jim) of Chicago, Ill., along with four great-grandchildren, James, Julia, and George Jennings, and Charlotte Roberts.

She cherished being with her family and the many wonderful friendships she developed over the years in the numerous places the Navy took her and Paul.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1 p.m. Friday, December 20, 2019 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Jacksonville Beach, Fla. with Reverend William Kelly as Celebrant. The family invites you to a “Celebration of Life” luncheon immediately following the service in St. Paul’s Family Life Center. Kindly RSVP by December 16, 2019 by calling or texting (678) 365-1239 if you’re able to attend.

The family wishes to express their deep gratitude to her devoted in-home caregivers, Tanya, Jackie, Faye, India, and Laura.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice.

Please visit the online Tribute at www.quinn-shalz.com.

Quinn-Shalz Family Funeral Home

Mr. Peter Dale Hadley, 91 of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Wednesday, December 11, 2019.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Janice Louise Hodges-Lovell, 58, of Chester, Fla., passed away December 10, 2019. Funeral services will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, December 13, 2019 in the Stephens Chapel at Green Pine Funeral Home.

Green Pine Funeral Home, Cremations & Cemetery

Bryant D. Morisey, 76, passed away December 11, 2019. No local services are planned at this time.

Green Pine Funeral Home, Cremations & Cemetery

A Homegoing service for Mrs. Gloria Williams will held at 11 a.m. Saturday, December 14, 2019 at St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church, located at 5253 Moncrief Road in Jacksonville, Fla. with Rev. Canon Eddie E. Jones Jr as Celebrant.

Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Friday, December 13, 2019 at The Soutel Chapel.

J. E. Fralin & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services

Lorna Deloris Griffith Margolin passed away December 11, 2019.

She was born October 4, 1922 in Madisonville, Tenn. and was a wife, mother, and grandmother and a friend to many. A Tennessee farm girl, she met her husband Ted when she joined the Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service in World War II. She spent most of the rest of her life taking care of her family, yard, church and friends. At home, her garden was where she wanted to spend all her time and energy.

Deloris and Ted traveled the U.S. and the world together before his death.

Deloris was a faithful Christian woman having been a member of Orange Park Baptist Church for many years before joining Amelia Baptist Church in Fernandina Beach, Fla.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Theodore A. Margolin; her granddaughter, Rachel Duckworth; and all of her brothers and sisters.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her son, Robert and his wife, Chris; granddaughter, Tomi Margolin; grandson, Clayton Margolin; great-granddaughter, Marley White; her daughter, Betty Duckworth; great-grandson, Jacob Brice; and her son, Charles Margolin.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials in Lorna’s name be made to the charity of your choice.

Jacksonville Memory Gardens Funeral Home

Brenda Vicki Coggins, 68, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Monday, December 9, 2019.

She was born in Waycross, Ga. to Beatrice Sarah Hodge and the late Parnell Joseph Morgan. She grew up in Fernandina Beach and graduated from Fernandina Beach High School.

Vicki, as she was known by all her family and friends, worked as a certified nursing assistant for many years at Osprey Village. In her spare time, she enjoyed flower gardening and spending time with family and friends. Her kind and generous nature was evident in her love for animals and helping those in need.

She was preceded in death by her father, Parnell J. Morgan; her former husband, Mark Jerome Coggins; her stepbrother, Frank Mizell; and stepson, Joshua Coggins.

She leaves behind her son, Mikivin “Shev” Ashmore and his wife, Wendee, of Yulee, Fla.; mother, Beatrice S. Milner and her husband, Charles, of Fernandina Beach; brother, Larry Parnell Morgan and his wife, Holly, of Valrico, Fla.; stepbrothers and sisters, Joe Mizell, Wanda Mizell, and Florence Mizell; stepdaughter, Ashley Nicole Coggins; grandchildren, Lockland Ashmore, Jaden Dove, Cameron Dove, and Riley Coggins; and niece and nephew, Allyce Morgan and Travis Morgan. She also leaves behind her former husband, Robert Nim Ashmore.

Services to remember and celebrate her life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, December 14, 2019 in the Burgess Chapel of Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors with Pastor Rob Goyette of Living Waters World Outreach officiating.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Mr. Louie E. Gray, 93, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Sunday, December 15, 2019.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Vicky Jonson, 54, passed away December 12, 2019.

Eternity Funeral Homes & Cremations – Nassau

Ida Loraine Skender (Williams), 47, departed for heaven on December 12, 2019.

Loraine was known for her infectious smile and sweet laughter. She enjoyed spending time with her three children and two beautiful grandchildren. In her pastime, she enjoyed fishing, gardening, and even hunting. She was an avid Miami Dolphins fan. Loraine was beloved by all who knew her. She was always there for anyone to lend a helping hand.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Carolyn Williams; stepmother, Beverly Williams (Wilks); two brothers, Mike and Mark Williams; and an infant sister, Cilicia Ann Williams.

She is survived by her three children, Frank Skender (Angel Wilcox), Caroline Skender (Luke Crews), and Jessica Skender; the father of her children, Gary Skender (Crossett Arkansas); two grandchildren, Caiden Hendricks and Piper Crews; her father, J. W. Williams (Sandra Ryder); two siblings, Deborah Duran (Williams) and John Wayne Williams (Deanna Williams); a nephew, Dalton Williams (Trina and Mason Williams); and many nieces, nephews and family members whom she dearly loved.

A viewing will be held noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, December 18, 2019 at River of Praise Worship Center, located at 83410 St. Mark Drive in Yulee. A funeral service will begin at 1 p.m.

Marvilene Sage, 90, died December 12, 2019 in the excellent care of Community Hospice.

In addition to teaching for 27 years at all grade levels, she was an adjunct professor for the University of North Florida.

Marvilene loved to volunteer, serving as a Girl Scout leader and at Baptist Medical Center Nassau.

She loved her family and friends and enjoyed playing bridge and canasta, and reading.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Robert Sage, and granddaughter, Corrie.

She is survived by her daughter, Terry Daly; her son, Roland Sage; grandson, Alex Daly (Kate); and granddaughter, Riley Sage.

Per her wishes, no services are planned.

In lieu of flowers, please do an act of kindness in her memory.

Eternity Funeral Homes & Cremations – Nassau

Peter Dale Hadley, 91, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Wednesday, December 11, 2019.

Born October 27, 1928 in Trenton, N.J., he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He was an active member of his Boy Scout troop, earning the degree of Eagle Scout. Peter graduated from Trenton State College in 1946 and then joined the Navy. He was in the Office of Naval Intelligence and was stationed in the Pentagon during the Korean War. After active duty, he remained in the Naval Reserve and retired as a lieutenant.

In 1951, he married the love of his life, Elaine Virginia Saville.

Peter’s first teaching job was in Morristown, N.J. In 1955, he moved to Levittown, Pa., where he raised his three children. He was teaching for Pennsbury School District until he became a guidance counselor for Neshaminy High School in 1975. He retired as a guidance counselor in 1989.

Peter was a deacon in his church. He enjoyed woodworking, gardening, boating, and camping. He has been a member of the Fraternal Order of Masons for 50 years. Peter and Elaine have traveled all over the world.

Peter purchased a house on Amelia Island in 1999, and Peter and Elaine were snowbirds for several years until they finally moved full-time to the island. He moved into Savannah Grand in January of 2018.

He was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Elaine Virginia Saville.

He leaves behind and was a loving father to David Hadley (Jeanette), Susan Hadley McEwen (Dave), and Jeffrey Hadley (Karen). He also leaves behind six grandchildren and four great-granddaughters.

A Celebration of Life is being planned for early 2020.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Prince of Peace Lutheran Church at 2600 Atlantic Ave., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 or Community Hospice of Northeast Florida at communityhospice.com/give.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Caleb Matthew Street went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, December 15, 2019.

He was born October 10, 1992 in Fernandina Beach, Fla. to Matthew Street and Kimberly A. Collins. He was an old soul with a heart of gold. Many would say he was too good for this world.

He was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Jerry Jr. and Faye; maternal grandparents, Ronnie, Joan and Manuelito.

He is survived by his father, Matthew; mother, Kimberly; stepmother, Sandra; stepfather, Donnie; brothers, Aaron, Kristopher (Allison), Peter, Benjamin, Ethan, and Luke; sisters, Sara (James), Anna, Brooke, and Crystal; and nieces, Deborah, Amelia, and Marley.

Funeral services will be held at noon Saturday, December 21, 2019 in the chapel of Cedar Bay Funeral Home, located at 405 New Berlin Road in Jacksonville. The family will begin receiving friends at 11 a.m.

Mrs. Barbara D. Bennett, 88, of Yulee, Fla., passed away Monday, December 16, 2019 at Baptist Medical Center Nassau in Fernandina Beach, Fla.

Born in Anderson, S.C. and raised in Greenville, she was the daughter of the late Louise Ducworth Gentry.

In 1951, she married Thomas “Jim” Bennett and they moved to Jacksonville, where they made their home and raised their family. In 1987, she and her husband moved to Yulee and into her log cabin on the “prettiest piece of property in Nassau County.” Mrs. Bennett retired after 20 years of service with the Florida Department of Children and Family. She also volunteered at Baptist Medical Center Nassau for approximately 25 years.

A longtime member of Blackrock Baptist Church, she was active in the church for as long as her health would permit. Whether singing in the choir or helping in some other way, Mrs. Bennett was always willing to show the love of God in whatever way she could. That love best exemplified itself in her love for her husband and family. She lived a blessed life and was a faithful servant of God.

Always trying to take care of everyone around her, she remained fiercely independent even in her last days. She will be remembered as an “angel on earth.”

Mrs. Bennett loved to cook and enjoyed listening to Elvis Presley. She passed her passion for his music on to all of her daughters.

In addition to her mother, she was predeceased by a brother, Donald Drake.

Mrs. Bennett leaves behind her husband of 68 years, Thomas “Jim” Bennett of Yulee; her three daughters, Mary Johnson and her husband, Steve, of Venice, Fla., Debra Connors and her husband, John, of Port Orange, Fla., and Rhonda Bennett and her husband, Don Barr, of Tallahassee, Fla.; her grandchildren, Joshua Holm and his wife, Sharon, Jennifer Jones and her husband, Tim, Annie Marco and her husband, Brian, and Mallery Mangan and her husband, Mike; and her great-grandchildren, Corrie, Cody, Caleb, Sophi, Addisyn, Jackson, Emmerson, and Samantha.

A service to remember and celebrate her life will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, December 20, 2019 at Blackrock Baptist Church. Pastor John Kasper and Rev. Frank Camarotti will officiate. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 a.m.

She will be missed more than words can say but her legacy of faith and love will live on through all of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Nita Pyfrom Davidson Vereen, 87, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away on Thursday, December 19, 2019.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Bonnie Padgett Ramsbottom, beloved wife of devoted husband William David Ramsbottom Sr., of Amelia Island, Fla., died Thursday, December 19, 2019.

Bonnie Padgett Ramsbottom was born August 28, 1943 in Mobile, Ala. to the late Wilda Gray Furr Padgett and late Elbert Padgett. Moving to Atlanta in 1972, Bonnie joined Transus, a national common carrier and airfreight forwarder. A graduate of the Emory University Executive Program, Bonnie had a lengthy career as vice president of their Corporate Systems Division.

Upon retirement, as a resident of Macon, Ga., Bonnie studied visual art at Wesleyan College, graduated in 1994, and developed into an award-winning artist. In the years after her graduation, she served on the Board of Trustees of Wesleyan College. In 1996, Bonnie was awarded for her Atlanta Summer Olympics artwork that was sponsored by the Middle Georgia Art Association. She was selected as the official artist for the 1999 International Cherry Blossom Festival and received a gold medal for her artwork from the International Association of Festivals. She was named “Artist for the Arts” by the Fine Arts Committee of the Georgia National Fair in 2001. Bonnie was selected by the Georgia Council of the Arts for an exhibition at the Capital Gallery showcasing Georgia Artists. In 2014, three of her paintings were published in the prestigious book Best of American Oil Painters, Vol III. Bonnie participated in numerous museum and gallery exhibitions and juried and invitational shows. She has been featured in numerous magazine articles including one in American Artist magazine, one of the foremost artists’ magazines in the country. An enthusiastic traveler, writer and artist, Bonnie’s vivid colors, distinctive features of regions, and raw beauty was inspired by the feelings and reactions to the many journeys on which Bonnie and Bill embarked. With miraculous determination, she endured many physical challenges. With her contagious smile and sophisticated sense of style, her artistic journey became an inspiration to anyone who met her.

Mrs. Ramsbottom was predeceased by her brother, Harold Van Padgett of Mobile.

Her survivors include siblings, Bonita Padgett Davis and Patricia Padgett Bryant (James Alton); nephew, James Alton (Jim) Bryant Jr.; niece, Kim Bryant Moore (late Joel Christopher); and grandniece, Taylor Anne Moore Seale (Hunter). Bonnie is also survived by her husband of 40 years, William David Ramsbottom; three children, Karen R. Parrott (Stephen) of Spartanburg, S.C., Bonnie R. Best of Atlanta, Ga., and William “Billy” Ramsbottom Jr. (Nicole), of Macon; and eight grandchildren, Jessica Lyle Parrott (Jo), Samuel Price Parrott, and Bonnie Elizabeth Parrott, Tucker Bennett Best and Sara Diana Best, and Kerry Sloane Ramsbottom, Kathryn London Ramsbottom, and Tres Ann Ramsbottom.

The family wants to express gratitude to all of Bonnie’s loving caretakers, especially Jane, Theresa, Jacqueline, Robin, and Christi for their compassion and tenderness.

Her Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, December 27, 2019 at the Amelia Plantation Chapel with the Rev. Dr. Conrad C. Sharps officiating.

In addition to flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to Wesleyan College, Art Department, 4760 Forsyth Road, Macon, GA 31210 or The Community Hospice Foundation, 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Sandra E. “Sandi” Mayes, 71, of Yulee, Fla., passed away Monday, December 16, 2019 at Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville, Fla.

She was born in Greenville, S.C. to the late Herbert M. Elrod and Doris R. Taylor.

Sandi was a very prolific reader and loved books. After finishing them, she was so happy to donate them to Friends of the Library several times a year. She loved crosswords and watching Jeopardy and would call out the right answers before the contestants on TV could do so. She and her husband “Wayne” would travel all over to see dirt track racing. They often went to Bristol, Tenn. and various other races. Sandi was a big fan of Bill Elliot. She enjoyed music and had gone several times with her husband to the Jacksonville Jazz Festival. Over the years, they saw several musicians like Dizzy Gillespie, George Benson, Spyro Gyra and so many more. She has several pictures with Lee Roy Parnell on his tour bus. She loved to travel mostly because she would get to be with family whether it was a cruise, a cabin in the mountains, or a trip to visit with her best friend and mother-in-law, Geneva Mayes.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Milton Wayne Mayes in 2009; her daughter, Melody Yvette Googe in 2014; and her sister, Linda Arnold in 2008.

She leaves behind her son, Charles Bedwell and his wife, Kimberly, of Yulee; grandchildren, Taylor Googe, Richard Jeremiah “Jamie” Bedwell, Keith Howard Googe, and Jakobe Seamus Foster Bedwell and his wife, Alyssa; and brothers, Steven M. Elrod and his wife, Terri, and Randall Wayne “Randy” Elrod and his wife, Janet. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Services to remember and celebrate her life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, December 28, 2019 in the Burgess Chapel of Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors. Her family will receive friends from 1:30 p.m. until the hour of service at the funeral home.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Patty Elliott, 61, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Friday, December 20, 2019 at her home.

Patty was born in Jacksonville, Fla. and was a daughter of Nancy Richardson Graham and the late John M. Elliott.

Patty moved to Fernandina Beach while in elementary school and lived here since then. Graduating from Fernandina Beach High School, she then attended Valdosta State College (now University) and received her bachelor’s degree in social work.

She retired from the state of Florida, where she worked with youth who were challenged in their lives. Patty’s kind and compassionate way with others greatly helped her to do her job. While she devoted much of her life to her work, Patty did love animals and rescued many in her lifetime.

In addition to her father, she was also predeceased by her stepfather, Thomas Graham.

She leaves behind her mother, Nancy Graham of Fernandina Beach; her siblings, Barbara Lam and her husband, Bing, of Lovettsville, Va. and John Scott Elliott and his wife, Xiu, of Jacksonville; and her nieces and nephews, Jeffrey, Zachary, Ashley and Stuart, as well as several other extended family members.

Services to remember Patty’s life will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, December 27, 2019 in the Burgess Chapel of Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors. She will be laid to rest at Bosque Bello Cemetery at a later date.

The family asks that donations be made in her memory to Cats Angels at P.O. Box 16072, Fernandina Beach, FL 32035.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

John Benjamin (Benny) Alvarez Sr., of Kingsland, Ga., passed away peacefully December 21, 2019 surrounded by his family at his home.

Benny was born August 13, 1947 in Fernandina Beach, Fla. to Carrie Jones Alvarez and Albert Castro “Ybor” Alvarez. He graduated from Fernandina Beach High School in 1966, lettering in all sports. He went to Gulf Coast Junior College and Middle Tennessee State University on baseball scholarships. Upon graduation from MTSU in 1970, he coached two years at Clay County High School before morning back to Fernandina Beach to coach baseball at his alma mater. A couple of years later, he became the director of Parks & Recreation in Fernandina Beach. During his tenure, he started numerous programs: Buddy League baseball, Buddy League basketball, girls softball, and tennis lessons. He was able to continue his love of coaching baseball – Little League, Senior League, and Big League, where he coached the team to the Big League World Series. The team finished fourth in the world.

Upon retirement, Benny played on the Senior Golf Tour for five years, then went on to be a golf instructor at Laurel Island Links, which is what he did until he was not physically able. Regardless of what he was coaching, he was always the mentor, coach, and friend. Many say he is a legend, “Swing by Alvarez.”

Before meeting Harriet in 1993, Benny was married to Tricia Scarboro, with whom he raised two wonderful children, John B. (Bo) Alvarez Jr. and Tricia Alvarez Parkin. They maintained a good relationship and embraced their new unique, blended families.

Benny’s zest for life was contagious. He loved his wife and family beyond measure, along with his Florida Gators.

Benny was preceded in death by his father, Albert Castro “Ybor” Alvarez; his mother, Carrie Jones Alvarez; and his sister, Delores Strickland.

He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Harriet Waters Alvarez; son, John B. (Bo) Alvarez Jr. (Darcy); daughter, Tricia Alvarez Parkin; grandchildren, John B. Alvarez III, Palmer Alvarez, Hogan Alvarez, Ryley Parkin, Avery Parkin, and Libby Alvarez; great-grandson, John B. Alvarez IV; sister, Rita Gray (Colin); brother, Sammy Alvarez; mother-in-law, Dorcas Waters; sister-in-law, Marla Waters Phillips (Brent); and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his life will be held at 5 p.m. Friday, January 3, 2020 at the Laurel Island Links driving range and clubhouse, located at 233 Marsh Harbour Parkway in Kingsland.

Memorials may be given to Epiphany Anglican Church at 110 Monticello Drive, Kingsland, GA 31548.

Kathy Brooks, 72, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Sunday, December 22, 2019.

She was born in Baltimore, Md. on October 3, 1947 to the late Catherine Furlong Paulus and the late Joseph Paulus. A summa cum laude graduate of Towson State University in 1969, she was class valedictorian and earned a Bachelor of Science in English and Secondary Education. Prior to moving to Fernandina Beach in 2000, Kathy was a resident of Baltimore, where she held numerous teaching positions at Eastern High School and was a health educator for the American Lung Association, teacher and director at Loch Raven United Methodist Preschool and St. Jerome’s Head Start Catholic Charities. While on the island, she worked as a teacher at St. Michael Academy and then as assistant at the Nassau County Volunteer Center.

Kathy also volunteered with many organizations including Amelia Island Sea Turtle Watch, Wild Amelia, Reading Pals of Fernandina Beach, Our Daily Bread, Villa Julie College Advisory Board, Maryland Public Health Administration Board of Directors, and Towson University Alumni Association.

Kathy was an exemplary educator for more than 36 years. She truly enjoyed her profession and relished the opportunity to work with so many children. Additionally, Kathy was a voracious reader and photographer who loved to travel, spend time in nature, and advocate for many social causes.

Kathy was preceded in death by her brothers, Stanley and Robert Paulus of Baltimore.

She is survived by her husband of 46 years, John Brooks; her daughter, Megann and husband Jeremy; and grandchildren, Everett, Isla and Logan Driver.

Services to remember and celebrate Kathy’s life will be held at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, January 2, 2020 at Burgess Chapel of Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors, located at 1305 Atlantic Ave. in Fernandina Beach. The family will begin receiving friends at 4 p.m.

The family asks that donations be made in her memory to the National Parks Foundation at 1110 Vermont Ave. NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20005 or the Nassau Humane Society at 641 Airport Road, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors