Colquitt Keeling Hicks, affectionately known as Colly, C.K., or Papa, passed away peacefully in Collierville, Tennessee on April 16, 2026, at the age of 86. He was a longtime resident of Germantown, Tennessee for 47 years.

Born on October 28, 1939, in Asheville, North Carolina, C.K. was the son of the late William Trotter Hicks and Za-Ida Copp Moore. He graduated from University High School in Oxford, Mississippi, and later from the University of Mississippi, where he was a proud member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity. As a devoted Ole Miss fan, he carried his Rebel spirit throughout his life. C.K. formed and maintained multiple lifelong friendships during his time in Oxford.

C.K. enjoyed a successful career, retiring from Dover Elevators before becoming the owner of a local delivery company. He was known for his strong work ethic, drive, and determination.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Mary Elaine Hicks; his daughters, Robin Majerus (Chris) and Laura Gilluly (Ben); and his four cherished grandchildren, Caleb and Jordan Majerus, and Sydney and Alex Gilluly.

C.K. found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved fishing, boating, and was a very skilled slalom water skier. He and his family could be found on their boat (the Laura Lee) on many summer weekends on Pickwick and Sardis Lakes. He cherished road adventures, traveling to visit family, relaxing at the beach, tackling home projects, and even dabbling in day trading. Above all, C.K. treasured time with his family and friends. His silly personality and warm smile brightened every gathering. In his later years, he spent many happy hours socializing and sharing coffee with friends at the Germantown Athletic Club.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 12:00 pm at St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Collierville with a Celebration of Life to follow starting at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be given to Baptist Reynold’s Hospice House or St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church.

C.K. will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of love, creating fond memories, and devotion to family will live on through those he leaves behind.

On April 1, 2026. Dennis was the beloved husband of Jeanne (née Sherwin); devoted father of Robert “Boomer” Blake, Matthew (Jessica) Blake, and Hillary (David) Laganella; and stepfather of Patrick (Elizabeth) Mooney and Edward “Ted” Mooney. He was a proud grandfather of Aiden, McKenzie, Keagan, Riley, Lucas, and Maya, as well as step-grandfather of CC, Jack, Tommy, Mike, Margaret, and Marin.

He was the son of the late Robert and Bernice Blake, and the brother of Mary Jo Agin. Dennis will also be deeply missed by his nieces and nephews.

Dennis was born in 1947 and raised in Collingswood, New Jersey. As a young boy, he worked alongside his father at Blake Funeral Home, where he developed a lifelong, wry sense of humor about the undertaking business. At his father’s encouragement, he attended LaSalle College High School, where he excelled in football. He went on to attend the University of Pennsylvania, playing tight end for the Quakers, and was a proud member of Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity.

Following college, Dennis served as a Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, where he saw combat and even found time to play football for the Marines. After his service, he earned his law degree from Villanova University School of Law and went on to a distinguished legal career as a partner at Brown & Connery for 25 years. He later served with honor as an Administrative Law Judge for New Jersey.

Dennis had a deep love for golf and for Tavistock Country Club, which he considered his home away from home for over 50 years. He was especially proud to be the namesake of the Blake Cup at Pine Valley Golf Club, a beloved event that brought friends and family together for more than two decades.

Above all, Dennis found his greatest joy in family. He rarely missed a chance to attend his grandchildren’s and step-grandchildren’s sporting events, taking immense pride in each of them.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, April 26th at Tavistock Country Club, 100 Tavistock Ln, Tavistock, NJ 08033 from 5-6:45pm; where family and friends are invited to share memories at 7pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dennis’s memory may be made to The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration

Dracos Dimitry Sloss, better known as “Drake”, died on April 24, 2026, after a six-month battle with stage IV lung cancer. He is survived by his brother, Lynes Robinson Sloss (Liz), his niece, Nina Sloss McGuire (Ryan), and his nephew, Joseph Merrick Jones Sloss (Kate). He was preceded in death by his parents, Nina O’Brien Sloss and Frederick Maclin Sloss, as well as his nephew, Alexander Dimitry Sloss.

Born August 29, 1955, in New Orleans, Drake attended LaSalle School, Metairie Park Country Day, and Tulane University, where he was a member of Delta Kappa Epsilon and graduated with a B.A. in history. Despite his New Orleans roots, Drake had an unparalleled devotion to Bama football. Paired with his intelligence, he possessed an uncanny ability to recall players, statistics, and story lines throughout the program’s history. In one of his final days, after hearing an attending physician’s last name, Drake informed the doctor he had the same last name as a football player for LSU in the 60’s. The physician, happily taken aback, informed him that the player in question was his father.

Small in stature but formidable in presence, Drake was thoughtful, observant, and content in his routines, especially time spent with friends and family. A keen observer of politics from an early age, he never shied away from spirited debate (whether invited or not). At just six years old, he was campaigning through his neighborhood with chants of “Boo for Schiro! Yay for Duplantier!” Drake was direct, sharp, and opinionated, traits rivaled only by his sincere kindness and affable nature. His quick wit and humor made him a constant source of amusement to his friends and family.

Drake remained deeply rooted in New Orleans from birth, and he built a long and successful career as a financial advisor, relying on his attention to detail, analytical mind, and innate skepticism. He eschewed fast-paced, big-city life. When his “favorite niece”, Nina, moved to New York City, he found great joy in reminding her of “the horrors” of the Big Apple, despite not having stepped foot there since the 80’s. He was, in every sense, sui generis. To his family, he will always be remembered as a devoted son, a loyal brother, a loving uncle, and a wellspring of amusement, providing humor and commentary that was as memorable as it was unfiltered.

He once remarked to his brother, “What would we do without Liz?” Now, his family finds themselves asking what they will do without Drake. Although his friends and family will miss him greatly, there is catharsis in knowing he is beyond the reach of pain.

A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, May 4, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Trinity Episcopal Church, 1329 Jackson Avenue. Visitation will begin at 12:00 PM. Arrangements entrusted to Tharp Funeral Home. Expressions of love and sympathy may be placed and viewed at tharpcares.com. Roll tide.

Edward S. Washburn III

May 26, 1930 – March 15, 2026

Leander, Texas – Edward Stephenson Washburn III, a beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at the age of 95.

Edward was born on May 26, 1930, in Chicago, Illinois, to Beatrice Morse Washburn and Edward Stephenson Washburn II. He grew up in Kansas City, Missouri. He attended Southwest High School and later received a BA from Hamilton College in Clinton, New York, where he was a member of Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity. He enlisted in the army during the Korean conflict.

In 1953, he married Bettie Lou Ogan at Saint Andrews Episcopal Church in Kansas City, Missouri. Their first child, Deborah Sue, was born in 1954. Their second child, Dan Murray, was born in 1958. He and his family moved to Ft. Worth, Texas in 1962.

He enjoyed a career in business management for 57 years. He was an Eagle Scout and served as Boy Scout Master, an avid gardener and a member of Saint Andrews Episcopal Church.

Edward was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Bettie Lou; brother, Stephen; sister-in-law, Patricia; and granddaughter, Wendy Love.

He is survived by his daughter, Debbie (Brad Love); son, Dan Washburn; grandson, Caleb Washburn; brothers, Kenneth (Ann Washburn) and Christopher Washburn.

Edwin Jerome (Jerry) Curran Jr., died peacefully at home on Sunday, Nov. 23, age 93, an hour after a joyful gathering of family members, including his great grandson Lucas, who he was seeing for the first time.

Jerry was born on March 17 (St. Patrick’s Day), 1932. He was preceded in death by Eleanor Curran, his beloved wife of almost 50 years, and his sister, Lynn Curran Carlin Wilkins. He is survived by his devoted second wife, Gary Lefevre Curran; son Eddie (Jana) of Mobile; son Greg (Emily) and daughter Leslie Naff (Blevins), both of Birmingham; and his brother, Stroud (Carol) Curran, of Tampa, Fla.

Daddy is also survived by eight grandchildren, some of whom called him Ankeekee. They are: Greg’s children, Lucy (Pedro) Eguren and Ford and Lillie Curran; Leslie’s children, Ellie, Holden and Margot Naff; and Eddie’s children, Jerry (Sara) and Eva Curran. He was also the great grandfather to Lucas Eguren and Eleanor Louise Curran.

He spent his entire life in Mobile, but for some much-enjoyed years at the University of Alabama, where he earned his undergraduate and law degrees, and a stretch in Germany with the U.S. Army. Upon returning stateside, he started practicing law with the firm that came to be known as Vickers, Riis, Murray & Curran. It was sometimes said of Daddy that he was, “The Last of the Southern Gentleman Lawyers.” While surely there are many others, he did belong to that generation whose priority was to serve the interests of their clients and their communities, and who often spent their entire careers with one firm.

He retired from the practice of law some three months short of his 90th birthday, and, or so it seemed, with some reluctance. Had it been up to him, he would have been dealing with clients up until his final breath. As many of his former partners have told us, his clients swore by Daddy, and considered him a trusted friend as well as a supremely wise and gifted lawyer. We’re biased, but believe his reputation in the Mobile legal community was right up there at the top.

Daddy loved spending time at his family home in Point Clear built by his parents, Eddie and Lucille Curran, many years ago. We couldn’t begin to count the dozens and dozens of people who considered him one of their greatest friends. He was someone they could trust in a time of need and have a rousing time with, for he assuredly had a clever, fun side as well.

Jerry was deeply involved in several Mystic Organization from which he took great pleasure. He held positions of leadership with America’s Junior Miss, including serving as its president, and was president of the YMCA in 1966. In that capacity, he led the fundraising drive that paved the way for the Chandler Branch YMCA, now the flagship YMCA center in Mobile.

He was awarded the MO Beale Scroll of Merit, an honorary long given by the Mobile Register, that praised his efforts in the drive to build the Chandler Branch. It also noted that in 1968, Daddy “received the first Religious Layman Award, in recognition of your role of leadership at Government Street Presbyterian Church ”

No memorial to our father could be complete without mentioning his life-long love and devotion to that church. He started going to GSPC, on his own, as a child, and over the next 80 years served in every capacity possible, to include picking up a broom and mop.

Also dear to him was his long-time position as a board member of the Mulherin Home, which serves those with severe disabilities. He called the Mulherin Home “meaningful,” a word he used sparingly. He was deeply fond of its residents, and they of him.

Daddy was not one to brag on himself, ever. If you wanted to make him uncomfortable, all you had to do was complement him. He did for others, always. His children’s greatest hope is that in his final months and weeks, that he finally let himself accept just a little credit for all the good he’d done for so many and to maybe, just maybe, finally give himself a little pat on the back. If he did so, he kept it to himself.

The family will never forget the kindness shown Daddy by his long-time friend and caregiver, Leola Sanders, one of the few people who could tell him what to do, which she did often, usually loudly and with a laugh. He was hospitalized three times in his final months. Painful though these hospitalizations often were, they were made as comfortable as possible by the extraordinary care he received from nurses, doctors and other personnel at Mobile Infirmary, be it in the emergency room, ICU or in regular rooms. Many of the nurses expressed their sadness at seeing him go. “We love him!” they’d say, or, “He’s so precious!”

When asked by an oncologist if he wanted to undergo treatment for his recently diagnosed cancer, Jerry responded: “Well, I would love to get to see one more season of Alabama football.” Roll Tide!

Jim Thomas 73, of Hartford, Kentucky passed away Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at his home in Hartford. James Henry Thomas was born May 11, 1953 in Owensboro, Kentucky to the late John Haines and Kathryn Shutt Thomas, was married to the former Cecilia ‘CeCe’ Kittinger Chinn on August 25, 1984, and was better known as ‘Jim’ to both his family and friends.

Jim was a 1971 Graduate of the former Calhoun High School, a 1975 Graduate of the University of The South in Sewanee, Tennessee, and a 1979 Graduate of the University of Louisville Law School. He started his career as an attorney in Hartford and later in his career transitioned to being a registered nurse, working at Signature Healthcare at Hillcrest in Owensboro. Jim was a member of Hartford United Methodist Church, a member of the Hartford Masonic Lodge, and a member of Rizpah Shrine Temple in Madisonville.

Jim is survived by his wife of 41 years, CeCe Thomas; a daughter, Lelia Kathryn Thomas O’Neill (Jared) of Whitesville; two grandchildren, James Kian Morris and Madelyn Pearl O’Neill; and two sisters, Joan Thomas White (Steve) of Masonville and Julie Thomas Clark (Mike) of Philpot.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Friday, June 12, 2026 at Muster Funeral Homes, Calhoun Chapel. Burial will be in the Sacramento Cumberland Presbyterian Cemetery in McLean County. Friends may visit with Jim’s family from 12:30 P.M. until 2:00 P.M. Friday at Musters in Calhoun.

The Jim Thomas family requests that expressions of sympathy take the form of donations to Sacramento Cumberland Presbyterian Cemetery Fund; P.O. Box 257; Sacramento, Kentucky 42372 or the Madelyn Pearl O’Neill, Educational Fund; C/O Commonwealth Community Bank; P.O. Box 225; Hartford, Kentucky 42347.

Jim’s services will be streamed live on musterfuneralhomes.com at 2:00 P.M. Friday.

James “Jimmy” Heywood Dill, Sr., age 84, passed away on July 27, 2026, in Fairhope, Alabama. Born on October 25, 1941 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Jimmy grew up in Mobile, Alabama, where he attended Murphy High School. An outstanding athlete, he excelled in track and field and football and was regarded as one of the finest track and field performers in the state.

Jimmy attended the University of Alabama on a football scholarship under legendary Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant, where he was a member of two National Championship teams in 1961 and 1964. He was also a member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity. After graduating, he served in the United States Army and coached football at the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York.

Jimmy had a very successful career in property and casualty insurance, owning several agencies in Gadsden and Birmingham. Upon retiring in 2018, his entrepreneurial spirit and lifelong love of baking led him to a second career that was dear to his heart. He and his wife, Paige, founded Tailgate Cheese Straws in Fairhope, Alabama, which grew into a beloved local brand with products sold throughout Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, and Louisiana.

Beyond baking, Jimmy enjoyed gardening, tending his rose gardens, boating, fishing, and Alabama football. He was generous with his time and loved sharing his knowledge, always willing to teach, encourage, and mentor others.

Jimmy accomplished many remarkable things throughout his life, but his greatest achievement was being a devoted father and “Dude,” as his grandchildren affectionately called him. They will forever cherish memories of pancake breakfasts, FaceTime calls to tell a new joke, playful teasing, and the countless moments that made him such a fun, loving, and devoted grandfather.

Whether sharing a laugh, offering advice, or cheering on the Crimson Tide, Jimmy lived with enthusiasm, kindness, and an unmistakable love for the people around him.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents, Norman Tolliver Dill, Sr. and Kathryn Thornton Dill, and by his brother, Norman Tolliver Dill, Jr. He is survived by his loving wife, Paige Peerson Dill; his children, Beeland Dill Voellinger (David) of Charlotte, North Carolina; Elizabeth Dill Welch (David) of Tuscaloosa, Alabama; and James “Bo” Heywood Dill, Jr. (Kelli) of Nashville, Tennessee; their mother, Rebecca Emmet Noojin of Tuscaloosa, Alabama; his cherished grandchildren, Bee and Will Voellinger, Libby and Anne Clayton Welch, and Mary Beck and Tate Dill; his sisters, Kathryn Virginia Hughes of Mobile, Alabama, and Nancy Elizabeth DuPont Dill of Toronto, Ontario.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 31, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Mobile, Alabama. Visitation will begin at 1:30 p.m. in Parish Hall, followed by the service at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.

James Marlin Taylor, Jr. — known to all as Jim, or even farther back as Jimmy — passed away on June 14, 2026. He is survived by his wife of more than thirty years, Alice Kirby Taylor; his daughters, Virginia Grace Taylor (“Gracie”) and Mary Lyle Taylor; his mother, Madge Michelle Taylor (“Shelly”); and his sister, Virginia Taylor Scott (Charles Scott). He was preceded in death by his father, James Marlin Taylor, Sr.

Born on December 15, 1966, in Pascagoula, Mississippi, his naval family soon moved to Honolulu, Hawaii. There, Jim began his life building tree houses, fishing by the shipyard, and exploring Pearl Harbor barefoot on his bike. When his family moved to Alexandria, Virginia in the third grade, Jim brought that same adventurous – and sometimes mischievous – spirit with him, even if his new home required him to finally learn to tie shoes. His vivacious spirit, along with his family’s impressive stock of snacks and Shasta, quickly drew the neighborhood kids in. Many of those neighborhood kids remain lifelong friends.

It was during these early years that Jim absorbed lessons of perseverance and humility from his parents that would shape his character for the rest of his life. Jim attended St. Stephen’s School and despite having dyslexia, he thrived there. He learned from a young age that uncertainty and challenge were adventures to be welcomed. Years later, during a commencement address at St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes, he shared that “real genius lies in persistence, in refusing to give up, and in accepting that failure is an important step forward in any journey worth making.” He remained closely connected to his alma mater throughout his life, later serving on its Board of Governors.

Outside of school, Jim’s lessons in hard work began at age 13, scooping ice cream, working in hot pizza kitchens, painting houses, and hauling trucking parts at his grandfather’s business. Jim or Jimmy Jam was equally in his element as lead singer of “The Hoods”, his high school band, spending weekends performing and getting into hijinks across the DC area.

After graduating from St. Stephen’s School in 1984, Jim went on to the University of Virginia, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Commerce from the McIntire School of Commerce in 1988 and served as President of Delta Kappa Epsilon (DKE). After a brief stint as an auditor at Price Waterhouse, he returned to Virginia to earn his law degree. He remained a devoted supporter of UVA for the rest of his life – tailgating at football games, serving on the Jefferson Trust, and returning to Grounds to visit his daughter during her time there.

Jim described his career as a “journey of discovery.” After law school, he worked as an associate at Hunton & Williams. Then, in 1998, he moved into investment banking, where over nearly fifteen years he worked at First Union Securities, Wachovia, and Eastdil Secured. At each step along the way, he was guided by his integrity and dedication to excellence. In 2012, Jim joined Federal Realty Investment Trust as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. In April 2016, he joined Brixmor Property Group as President and Chief Executive Officer and served there until his retirement in December 2025. In December 2023, Jim was gaveled in as Chair of the International Council of Shopping Centers, the global trade association for the marketplaces industry. During his tenure with Brixmor, Jim transformed the company into one of the nation’s premier owners and operators of open-air shopping centers.

What brought Jim the most joy in his career was empowering others to embody the best version of themselves. Jim possessed a unique gift for recognizing someone’s strength before they did and nurturing that potential into reality. At Brixmor, he proudly embodied his philosophy that “great real estate matters, but great people matter far more.” He knew employees personally up and down the company, taking time to genuinely connect with them. He was known for the patient, thought-provoking questions that made people feel seen and challenged in equal measure. He led with empathy, kindness, and integrity, building a culture where trust and outperformance went hand in hand. He was an unparalleled leader who inspired those around him.

Although Jim built communities for a living, the ones he built outside of work may have been his proudest achievement. His love for his friends and family ran deep. He was a natural connector: someone who nurtured friendships, loved to bring others together, and had a gift for making his friends feel genuinely loved and looked after. Being teased by Jim was a badge of honor.

Jim had an uncanny gift for finding a favorite restaurant and almost immediately becoming a favorite of the staff. If Jim had an Achilles’ heel, it came in the shape of a Coca-Cola can and a box of pretzels. He cherished the classic cars he owned, among them a 1964 Ford Thunderbird similar to one his grandfather owned. He was a wide-ranging reader, partial to historical nonfiction and thrillers; he could often be found reading on the couch with his dogs, George and Willow, at his feet. He found his deepest relaxation hosting friends and family – grilling, boating, and swimming – along the St. Marys River off the Chesapeake Bay in Southern Maryland.

In his final year, Jim was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and more recently Lewy body dementia. He met the illness with the same grace and concern for those around him that had marked his life.

Jim will be remembered as a leader with rare integrity and warmth, a builder of teams and of people, and a loyal and loving friend, husband, father, son, and brother. We honor him by continuing his legacy: by living our own lives embracing hard work, love, integrity, humor, and a little bit of mischief.

The family is beyond grateful for the outpouring of love, support and prayers from those whose lives have been touched by Jim. A celebration of Jim’s life will be planned in the coming months. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations in Jim’s name be made to the Fund a Fellow for Parkinson’s program at Georgetown University Medical Center, to support the next generation of doctors treating Lewy body dementia and other Parkinsonian syndromes. (neurology.georgetown.edu/fund-a-fellow).

John Hinkley Beeler, Jr., passed away at home on Thursday, August 20th, 2026. John, or Johnny to many, was born in Birmingham, Alabama on April 20th, 1948 to John Hinkley Beeler and Nancy Brower Beeler.

John had a quintessential Birmingham childhood, roaming the neighborhood with his best friends, while taking on countless adventures that always included trips to Gilchrist for hot beef sandwiches. The friendships they formed as boys endured for a lifetime.

John met Nancy Davies in high school, and their courtship continued through their college years. After graduating from the University of Alabama, where John was a member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity, he and Nancy married on June 24th, 1972. Together, they built a life centered around family, friendship, and a deep appreciation for the people and places they loved.

After college, John joined the family business, W.P. Ballard & Co., working alongside his father, selling and distributing dry-cleaning supplies and chemicals throughout the southeast. As the business grew, so did John’s relationships with his business partners, customers, and coworkers, many of whom became lifelong friends. John never met a stranger. He had a remarkable ability to put himself in someone else’s shoes, regardless of who they were or what their story might be. If you knew John, you knew you could count on him to lend an ear, have a laugh, share a story, or simply be there.

One of John’s favorite places was Hatchechubbee, Alabama, a place where he enjoyed quail hunting and nature while spending time with friends and family. Over the years, his affection for the area led him to build a cabin there, which became a beloved gathering place for family and friends. Through his foresight and vision, what began as scrubby little pine trees was transformed into Slipaway Farms or simply “Hatch”, a special place filled with laughter, fellowship, hunting, fishing, and family memories. Hatch represented everything that John was, simple and laid back. John and Nancy spent many years hosting friends and family there, and it became a place where his children and grandchildren could experience the joy of being together.

In his later years, John began volunteering at Encore, assisting individuals living with dementia and Alzheimer’s as they navigated the challenges of those terrible illnesses. John was convinced that these weekly interactions helped him as much as they helped those he served. Everyone he met there became an integral part of his life, his time at Encore was a meaningful part of his later years.

Nancy and John were fortunate to have lifelong friendships with so many people in Mountain Brook. They traveled together, shared countless meals and celebrations, and spent much-valued time with friends who became family. These indelible friendships remained an important part of the memories they created together.

John Hinkley Beeler, Jr. is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nancy Davies Beeler. He is survived by his daughters, Laura Beeler Vetter (Roland) and Elizabeth Beeler Strong (David Reiné), his son, John Hinkley Beeler, III (Aften), his grandchildren, Elizabeth Davies (Day) Vetter, Lucia Marie (Lucy) and Laine Davies Reiné, his sister, Dorothy Beeler Stair (Caesar), brother-in-law Benjamin Davies, III, six nephews and their families.

A memorial service will be held at Canterbury United Methodist Church on Tuesday, August 25th at 2:30 pm. A reception will follow at The Country Club of Birmingham. The graveside service will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to: Encore Ministry (c/o Canterbury United Methodist Church, (350 Overbrook Road, Birmingham, AL 35213), Apalachicola Riverkeeper, (P.O. Box 8, Apalachicola, FL 32329), or your favorite charity.

John Happy Jr’s grandfather, Cyrus Happy Sr., a successful lawyer, traveled from Illinois to Spokane in 1891. John’s father, John H Happy, Sr., a Spokane native, was born in 1895. John’s dad started his own insurance agency and became a Washington State senator in 1946 and remained in that elected office until his death in 1962.

Like his father before him, John, Jr., went to Roosevelt Elementary School and Lewis and Clark High School, graduating from high school in 1947. His father offered him the opportunity to go to Harvard but John Jr. decided on the University of Washington, his father’s alma mater. While attending college he joined the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity, joined the Navy ROTC and began dating Joann Thackston of Port Orchard, WA, who would be his wife for 68 years, until her death in 2021. John graduated from the UW in 1951 with a business degree and a naval commission as an ensign. Before he married his college sweetheart, John served on the USS Kennebec and on the USS Banner during the Korean conflict. He joined his father in the insurance agency in 1953. The agency was renamed to John H Happy and Son. John was a successful insurance agent for 33 years and was the City of Spokane’s first risk manager for 7 years.

On July 25, 1953, he married Joann. John’s first child, John Happy III, was born in 1954. Gayle, his second, was born in 1955 and Jeff, his third, was born in 1960. Gayle died of cancer in 2016. John and Joann spent the first 15 years of their married life living near Cliff Park, just a few houses away from where he grew up. In 1966, they moved their family to the Glenrose area where they built a house next to the Spokane Racquet Club. Joann and John moved to Rockwood Forest Estates in August of 2002. John wrote fondly of his childhood experience, with many other kids his age, who spent a lot of time with George Libby.

To most, George was a notable photographer. To John he was that and a generous man who took kids on hikes, taught them to safely shoot a 22, and had a youth camp on Liberty Lake and, later, Arrow Boys Camp on Lake Coeur d’Alene. Mr. Libby was also scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troup 45. John ‘graduated’ from scouting as an eagle scout with silver palm and 36 merit badges. His family fondly remembers hiking mountain trails, his love for Hawaii, camping on Mosquito Bay, visiting with friends on Hayden Lake, golfing with grandma, Christmas trips to grandma’s house in Port Orchard and a lot of time at the Spokane Racquet club often seeing John running tennis tournaments.

John made some lifelong friends during his school years and navy years. He outlived most of them but spoke of them often to his children. He very fondly remembers his childhood and raising his own family in the Cliff Park / Wall Street area of the South Hill. John’s family, past and present, was very involved in playing and promoting tennis. Family members were instrumental in forming the Spokane Tennis Club in the early and mid-1900’s. John Jr was a founding member of the Spokane Racquet Club in 1961 as was his very dear friend, Don Neraas. He finally gave up the sport at 90 years of age blaming balance issues.

John would proudly tell you of raising his three children; John Happy III, Gayle Happy and Jeff Happy. He would also tell you of how blessed he has been because of his foster daughter, Sue Chapin (Svacek) and her husband, Paul. If you had a lot more time to listen, he would tell you how awesome his god children are: Julie Neraas, David Gaiser, Robert Dewey and Laura Utter.

John Jr., is survived by lots of people who loved and respected him; by his sons, John Happy III (Theresa) and Jeff Happy. By his grandchildren, Anna Randall (Matt), Jamie Garbien (Paul), John Dehn (Alyse) and Christopher Happy. By his great grandchildren, Aaron Randall, Noelle Randall, David Dehn, Billy Dehn, Abby Garbien and Dane Garbien. Preceding him in death was his wife, Joann, daughter, Gayle Dehn (Starr) and sister, Marcia.

Leroy Harte Benton IV, age 49, of Mobile, Alabama, passed away leaving behind a remarkable lifetime of stories, laughter, unforgettable memories and a lasting legacy . Roy was born on November 9, 1976, in Mobile, Alabama to his loving parents, Mr. and Mrs. Leroy Harte Benton III. He is survived by our parents as well as his siblings, Thomas Fitzgerald Benton and Aurelia Benton McMahon, his brother-in-law, Dr. Daniel McMahon and many nieces and nephews – all of whom loved, “Uncle Roy” and his stories of adventures in Montana and beyond.

Leroy, known to many as, “Roy” was as courageous in his recent fight as he was in his broader approach to life. He was blessed to be surrounded by his loving family and a fiercely dedicated group of friends, many of whom have stood beside him from first grade at UMS until the very end. These friendships were lifelong, loyal, and unbreakable.

Roy spent most of his youth in Mobile, growing up along Dog River, where days were filled with highly competitive games of basketball, football, nonstop water sports, and legendary neighborhood “war games” with cousins and friends that occasionally ended in sibling “disputes”. I was often the beneficiary of his substantial enforcement which only strengthened our bond.! Those were some of the best days of our lives, and not surprising to anyone here, Roy lived every one of those days wide open.

After graduating from UMS, he then went on to graduate from the University of Alabama, where he was a member of Delta Kappa Epsilon. He fully embraced the college experience and developed a lifelong love for Alabama football. “T-Town,” as Roy called it, was a place where he truly left his mark. Roy in Tuscaloosa was a sight to see—just ask the bike cops!

In his 40s, Roy found his next chapter in Montana, where he chased wild places and wild birds. He loved hunting chukars, pheasant, and grouse, fly fishing for trout, riding horses, and skiing deep into the backcountry. The outdoors wasn’t just something Roy enjoyed—it was where he belonged and where he was most at home.

Roy was headstrong. He loved hard, he lived hard, and he died hard. In his final days, Roy showed a level of courage and strength I have never before witnessed and is impossible to articulate. He has left all of us far too soon, but not before leaving his impact on every one of us and in ways that only Roy could. Roy’s life was big, bold, and unapologetically his— which is exactly how he will be remembered.

Leroy Harte Benton IV will be deeply missed and most certainly never forgotten.

Visitation for Roy will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. until 11 a.m. at St. Ignatius Catholic Church, 3704 Spring Hill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m., followed by a private family committal service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:

River Discovery

P.O. Box 8336

Boise, ID 83707

Dog River Clearwater Revival

P.O. Box 161523

Mobile, AL 36616

Marshall “Gus” August Wakat III of Vail, Colorado, beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, friend, and coach passed away on February 21, 2026. Gus was born in Charleston, South Carolina on November 1, 1972. He is survived by his wife Kristen (Dunn) Wakat, his two sons Marshall “Gus” August Wakat IV and Levon David Wakat, his brother Marty Allen Wakat (and wife Karie) of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, his golden doodle Chewy, his mother-in-law Susan Dunn of Florida, his sister-in-law Amy Dunn of Denver, Colorado, nephews Joseph Peternel and Michael Peternel of Ohio, his niece Addison Von Steeg of Denver, Colorado, his Aunt Linda Brown and Uncle Lynn Brown of Dayton Ohio, and a village of close friends around the country. He was predeceased by his mother Phyllis Daniels Wakat, his father Marshall August Wakat Jr., and his dog Marley.

As a child, Gus moved with his family to Roanoke, Virginia where he attended North Cross High School and played a competitive sport every season, graduating in 1991. He graduated Cum Laude from Wake Forest University in 1995, where he studied Psychology and Business Administration and Management and became a brother in the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity. After college, Gus moved to Breckenridge, Colorado where he worked as a real estate agent and a bartender at The Dredge. He earned his MBA from the University of Denver in 2001.

In the summer of 1999, Gus met the love of his life, Kristen, at a mutual friend’s barbecue in Breckenridge, and they married in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico in 2004. In 2003, Gus and Kristen moved to Denver, Colorado where he worked at American Equity Mortgage until he opened his own business, Home Equity Mortgage, in 2006. Gus and Kristen welcomed their first son, Gus Jr. in 2008 and their second son, Levon, in 2011. In 2016, the mountains called again, and the family moved their home to Vail, Colorado where they could snowboard, ski, mountain bike, raft, and hike just steps from their front door. They called Charleston their second home, where they spent many summers and holidays together at the beach in Isle of Palms.

Together, Gus and Kristen built a life of love and adventure, traveling the world and attending hundreds of concerts with many of their friends. Gus loved going to music festivals, especially the New Orleans Jazz Festival and the Telluride Blues & Brews Festival. He was a devoted fan of the Allman Brothers and Tedeschi Trucks Band, never missing their shows at his favorite venue, Red Rocks Amphitheater, where he inscribed his name in the backstage tunnel.

Gus loved chasing new outdoor adventures with Kristen, Gus Jr., Levon, and their friends. He was known for his spontaneous weekend camping trips in his infamous and well-loved Pleasure-Way van, which he eventually upgraded to a Sprinter van. His adventurous spirit led him to new surf beaches around the world and frequently to Moab and Whistler on mountain biking trips with his boys. Most recently, the family spent their summer vacations in the Mediterranean, on boat trips in Croatia and Italy.

Known by everyone he loved as Dad Gus, he was a bright and generous light in so many lives. Coaching both of his boys in the Vail Lacrosse program over the last eight years, he was admired by many young athletes whom he coached and mentored. Forever a kid at heart, Gus loved watching Star Wars, learning history, and playing Magic the Gathering and Warhammer with his sons and their friends. He was a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan and cheered for Ohio State, Kristen’s alma mater.

Gus will always be remembered for his kind, generous, and fearless spirit, his infectious smile, his deep love for music, and his devotion to his family. It is difficult for Gus’s family and friends to recall a “Best Concert” or a “Best Day Skiing” that didn’t include Gus – he brought the fun and the love, and he always showed up for the people and the communities he loved.

Family and friends of Gus and his family are invited to celebrate at “A Tribute to Gus Wakat – An Album of His Life,” beginning at 2:00 in the afternoon on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 4 Eagle Ranch, 4098 Highway 131, Wolcott, Colorado.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in support of behavioral health programs through the Vail Health Foundation:

Michael Lee Hancock was born in Antioch, Tennessee to his parents, Justin and Grace Hancock, on February 28, 1958. He attended high school in Antioch. He attended Vanderbilt University, graduating in 1980 with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics. He later obtained his master’s degree in mathematics. He taught mathematics for a short while at Memphis University School. He was a biostatistician for St Jude Hospital followed by GTX.

Michael retired in his mid-fifties and continued his love of traveling around the globe. He adored cats and all animals. Michael has been described as larger than life. He was a joy with which to be for all friends and strangers. A light has gone out in this world with the loss of Michael but shines above us all.

Michael died on July 30, 2026. He is preceded in death by his parents and his loving cats Lilly and Friendly. He is survived by his god daughters Jordan Royals (Tyler) and Kendall Anderson, best friends Keith Anderson, Kay Anderson and Dennis Givens along with many more grieving friends around the world.

Family and friends will hold a memorial on Saturday August 15th, 2026, at Memorial Park Funeral Home at 2:30 pm, with a visitation beforehand starting at 1:30. In lieu of flowers, we ask for anyone who wishes to donate to Mewtopia Cat Rescue in Memphis in honor of Michael’s love of cats.

Robert Edward Baldanzi, of Arlington, VA, formerly of Pine Brook, NJ and Upper Montclair, NJ, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026 at 83 years old.

Robert was born on January 11, 1943, in East Paterson, NJ later renamed to Elmwood Park, NJ. He attended the Peddie School in Hightstown, NJ, and in 1965 went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Colgate University in Hamilton, NY. He was a proud member of both the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity and the university swim team.

Some of Robert’s main passions were swimming, golf, and early American history.

Robert was a life guard for many years during his youth at Spring Lake, NJ. He was proud to be a member of the championship team that won the annual NJ Shore Life Guard Tournament in 1962.

Robert enjoyed golf and was a member of Upper Montclair Country Club in Clifton, NJ from 1967 through 2010. Robert won many golf tournaments and other awards across the years. Some of his most notable achievements at the Upper Montclair Country Club include being an ABC C Flight Winner in both 1993 & 1996, winning the Vice President’s Trophy in 2000, winning the 1999 Golf Committee Award, 2001 Azalea Tournament, & 2001 Presidents Trophy with his partner Gary Foerster, and his 2007 Hole In One.

Robert also enjoyed studying history, with his main focus being on the American Revolutionary War and Civil War eras. He was an avid reader and took pride in collecting and curating his personal library of books written by authors from the Civil War era.

In 1965, Robert joined the family business, Aetna Chemical Company, based on Wallace Street Extension in Elmwood Park NJ. His professional career included decades of sales roles and leadership at Aetna Chemical Company where he ultimately served as President. In 1990 he founded Path Silicone Company, also based in Elmwood Park, NJ. He was also an early investor in the use of computers for business activities. Aetna Chemical Company partnered with local computer scientists and software developers to create programs for activities such as managing inventory and material data safety sheets with a focus on the specific requirements of process manufacturing and chemical distributors. They eventually upgraded to use the IBM AS 400. The software efforts began in 1981 and became the separate company DataCor, Inc, based in Florham Park, NJ.

Robert was married twice during his life, first to Margaret Claire O’Connell of Stamford, Connecticut and then to Claire Vargo of Elmwood Park, New Jersey.

Robert married Margaret Claire O’Connell in Stamford, Connecticut on February 5, 1966. They lived in Saddle Brook, Towaco, and Pine Brook, NJ. They were married for more than 30 years and raised 4 children together during that time. Robert consistently supported education and extracurricular activities for his children. Following their divorce, Robert married Claire Vargo in 1999. Robert and Claire lived in Kinnelon, NJ and were married for more than 20 years until her death.

Robert was preceded in death by his father, Antonio “Ted” Baldanzi; his mother, Lena Baldanzi; his sister, Linda Baldanzi; his first wife, Margaret “Penny” O’Connell; and his second wife, Claire Baldanzi.

He is survived by his brother, Ted A. Baldanzi and his family. Robert is also survived by his four children and their families: Christine Baldanzi Schoaff of Apex, North Carolina & her husband Peter Schoaff; Stephanie Baldanzi of Arlington, Virginia and John Owens; Brenda Baldanzi Wilson of Charlotte, North Carolina & her husband Brock Wilson; and Todd Baldanzi of Keller, Texas & his wife Lee Ann Baldanzi.

Robert is additionally survived by his 8 grandchildren: Christine’s children Alyssa & Patrick Schoaff; Stephanie’s children Jacob, Destiny, & Min Joo Muskovitz; and Brenda’s children Brayson, Brevin, & Brielle Wilson.

The Honorable Robert W. Dyche III, who devoted his life to serving the people of Kentucky, passed from this life into eternal life on April 15, 2026, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Jane Winkler Dyche, and his two sons, Robert IV and John William.

Born April 12, 1951, Judge Dyche was the son of the late Robert Jr. and Beulah “Boots” Dyche. He graduated from Centre College in 1972 and the University of Kentucky College of Law in 1975. He began his legal career in private practice in London with the firm of Allen and Bledsoe before opening his own office.

In January 1978, at just 26 years old, he was appointed as a trial commissioner and soon after became a district judge in Laurel and Knox Counties. In June 1986, he was appointed to the Kentucky Court of Appeals, where he served for twenty years until his retirement in June 2006. Over the course of his judicial career, he authored more than 2,000 opinions and participated in over more 3,500 cases. His professional activities include service on the Continuing Judicial Education Commission from 1992-2006, the Ethics Committee of the Kentucky Judiciary 1997-2002, and the Judicial Conduct Commission 2002-2006. After retirement from the bench, he joined Jane in the practice of law at Dyche Law Office and remained active in the legal community, including as a member of the Kentucky Board of Bar Examiners.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Judge Dyche was an avid gardener, devoted reader, world traveler, and patron of the arts.

Judge Dyche’s life was a steady gift to the community he loved. He served on a number of local boards, including the Laurel County Public Library and St. Joseph-London Hospital. As chair of the library board, he helped lead the planning and construction of the new public library and took a particular interest in its design, helping to ensure it would stand as a place of pride and enlightenment for the community. During his time with the hospital, he was involved in the planning and construction of the new St Joseph-London facility. He was a University of Kentucky Fellow, honored with the “James Gugler Outstanding Trustee Award” as an outstanding library trustee, the Kentucky Public Library Association Lifetime Achievement Award, President, Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival Association and the Laurel County Homecoming Lifetime Achievement Award. In addition, Senator Mitch McConnell honored Judge Dyche on the Senate floor upon his retirement from the Court of Appeals with remarks that were entered into the Congressional Record.

He is also survived by his sister, Paige Dyche Stevens of London; his brother, John David Dyche (Laura) of Louisville; and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and colleagues.

Visiting hours with the family will be Saturday, April 18, at 6 PM at House Rawlings Funeral Home. A service celebrating his life will be held at First United Methodist Church of London on April 19 with visitation at 1 PM and the service at 2 PM. Burial will follow at A.R. Dyche Cemetery, with a reception following at the church.

The family requests that expressions of sympathy be made to the London Laurel County Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Dolly Parton Imagination Library or a good cause of your choice.

Robert “Bob” Ward Risley Bob Risley, 75, of New Hartford, New York, passed away peacefully after a brief and courageous battle with cancer, with family and friends by his side. Bob was born February 5, 1951, in New Hartford, New York, to Floyd and Lena Ward Risley. He attended New Hartford schools and went on to study at Colgate University in Hamilton, New York, where he met his late, former wife and lifelong friend, Patty Burke. He graduated in 1973 and was a proud member of Delta Kappa Epsilon (DKE). There, he made lasting connections and enjoyed decades of annual fishing trips and close friendships with his fraternity brothers. Bob had a deep knowledge of and love for New York State, especially the land and community that shaped him. His family’s roots on their property spanned more than 150 years, a legacy he honored through the care he gave to his home and gardens. He was a caring father and a true friend to his three children and two sons-in-law: Madeline (Billy) Fenton (Old Forge), Mike Risley (Florida), and Meg (Phil) Cernera (California). Bob especially treasured his time spent in Old Forge, his travels to visit his children around the country and abroad, and the opportunity to work construction alongside his son, Mike. He was a present and much-loved grandfather, a “Pop,” “Grampy,” and “Bob-Dad,” to eight grandchildren: Tyler and Nolan Fenton; Connor Hudon; Myla, Jax, Ty, and Kaz Risley; and Oscar Cernera. He took great pride in their lives, following their sports and pursuits with genuine interest and love. Bob was closely connected with his two sisters, Jacqui Wiggins (New Hartford) and Sharon Halligan (Sauquoit), and his late cousins, Martha (John) Hoffman and Elaine Risley. He was an engaged uncle and great-uncle to many nieces and nephews, including Chris Bowman (Connecticut), Heather (Chris) Freeman (Nantucket), Dane Halligan (Watertown), and Lisa (Derek) Redder (Rhode Island), and their children. In the past decade, Bob’s life was especially enriched by a close circle of adventure friends: Anne Stuhlman, Barb Felice, Julie Chanatry, and others. Together they traveled throughout Europe, Scandinavia, Canada, the Pacific Northwest and New York State, and their companionship remained steadfast through his final months. Bob was a cherished member of the Utica Curling Club community for over six decades, serving as both a champion curler and a dedicated leader, including time as Club President. His steady role and commitment there will be deeply missed. Bob lived a full life, with deep local roots, enduring friendships and community, and a spirit of humility and openness. His patient, easygoing presence and encyclopedic knowledge will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him. He was a thoughtful, walking MapQuest, always ready with directions and stories for anyone lucky enough to chat with or travel with him. “Riz” was a jack of all trades and one of a kind. In lieu of flowers, Bob’s family would like to share his affinity for Abraham House in Rome, New York, which showed incredible compassion and care for Bob and his children during the loss of their mother, and Bob donated to Abraham House each Christmas season. The mission of Spring Farm CARES in Clinton was also near and dear to Bob’s heart, reflecting his deep appreciation and direct care for animals and nature. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Utica Curling Club; all are welcome. A later gathering to honor his ashes will take place in the Adirondacks. Please join his family on Saturday, May 16 from 2-5pm at the Utica Curling Club in Whitesboro. A short memorial service will be held during the reception at 3pm. All are invited at any time. Online messages of sympathy may be left at: fwefh.com Arrangements are in the care of Friedel Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, New Hartford

Thomas Vinson Handy born March 8, 1944, went home to be with our lord and savior on April 13, 2026 at home with his family by his side after a very brief health struggle. Tom was the son of the Late C.F. Handy and Lou (McCowan) Handy. He is survived by his loving wife of 53yrs Bonnie Sue (Collier) Handy. His Daughter Dennie Beth Mills and spouse Matt Mills. Son Vinson Starr Handy and wife Amy Handy. Tom was blessed to have 5 grandchildren: Mattie Mills, Eliza Mills, Collier Mills, Tanner Hamilton and Tucker Hamilton. He is also survived by his brother James Handy and wife Kathy Handy and many other loving family members and friends.

Thomas Vinson Handy was a lifelong resident of London, Ky, a town he held dear to his soul throughout his life and his many attributes attest to that passion. He was a member of the First Christian Church of London where his family worshiped with friends and family.

Tom obtained his bachelor’s degree from Centre College where he attended with his brother Jim and made many lifelong friends. He went on to receive his degree in law at the University of Kentucky College of Law.

After his Law degree Tom moved to Washington D.C. during the years of 1969-1971 where he worked as an aide to former Congressman Tim Lee Carter. Tom returned to London to have a brief career as a defense attorney but in 1975 he found his true lifelong passion in law by being elected as the Commonwealths Attorney of the 27th Judicial District until his retirement in 2003. It would be remiss to say that his time in defense law wasn’t without merit because due to a fellow attorney he met and fell in love with his wife Bonnie on a blind date.

Tom had too many achievements as Commonwealth Attorney to list in his long 28yr career. Most notably he prosecuted several high-profile cases not only for this area but also prosecutions that gained him national attention for his excellence in prosecution. Tom was very proud of his and his staffs work to bring Crime Victim Advocates to the forefront of the commonwealth’s attorney’s office across Kentucky. He would be remiss not to acknowledge the hard work of people like Missy Bundy, Gina Bennett and his daughter Dennie Beth Mills on all their contributions to the victims over the years. Also not to be overshadowed are the thousands of hours of his assistant prosecutors and wonderful support staff. There are too many excellent people to mention but he knows in his heart and soul each of your names and what you meant to him. Accolades weren’t what drove Tom though, his deep passion for protecting the defenseless and making the persecutors pay for their crimes were his true inner peace during his career.

During his career as prosecutor Tom, with his family’s blessing entered the arena of state politics. First, in 1991he traveled the state as a relatively unknown newcomer to vie for the office of Attorney General. Along with his close friend Richard Dinkins they drove from one end of the state to the other campaigning and making new friends. Although his bid was unsuccessful Tom wasn’t deterred. Tom joined friend Larry Forgy’s campaign for Governor of Kentucky as his Lt Governor candidate in 1995. They ran the closest race at that point in history as a Republican to defeat the Democrats but unfortunately lost in a close battle at the end.

While law was his primary career Tom’s endeavors in life were far reaching. He was an entrepreneur in business, a community leader and politician. Tom and his brother Jim followed in the family business of motels by building and operating the Best Western Hotel in London, Ky. Along with his brother, Cousin Ronnie McCowan and close friend they established Holly Bay Marina on Laurel Lake. This venture not only built a family location for their own families to be raised with the business it brought tourism to this area from around the country. Although no longer owned by the family Holy Bay Marina still thrives in its intended use to this day as a beacon for tourism for Laurel County and surrounding area. Tom had many other business ventures throughout his life, some that his children still maintain.

Public and community service were always at the forefront of Tom’s life. Instilled upon him at a young age by his mother and father who worked to better their community until their passing. Tom served on the Laurel Co Tourism board from 1979-2025 with 12 of those as the chairman. During this period, he was instrumental in developing the World Chicken Festival and bringing in the National 3D Archery Tournament to London along with countless other events to drive tourism in this area. Tom also worked with lifelong friend Congressman Hal Rogers to establish Operation Unite. An organization to combat drug abuse in the fifth district of Kentucky. Tom was board chair for 17yrs. Also, during this period, he worked in partnership to establish Leadership Tri-County to train the next generation of leaders in this area. Other notable boards were the state’s Child Advocacy board, Kentucky Horse Racing Commission, served on the committee to design the new Laurel County Judicial Center and other such causes.

After his retirement in 2003 Tom didn’t stop. He took time to travel the country and world with his beautiful partner Bonnie and children by his side. He helped develop the Able Mission which worked to build and improve facilities and lives in the USA and around the world after many natural disasters. In later life Tom and Bonnie continued to travel as allowed due to Bonnie’s hinderance of MS. This didn’t stop them from their many joys in life being involved in their grandchildren’s lives and many friends. Tom also found joy, well may be some anger and joy, in Golf and spending time at the London Country Club in fellowship with his son Starr and a long list of lifelong friends.

The Handy Family will be receiving friends and family Saturday April 18, 2026 at the First Baptist Church of London located at 804 W. 5th Street London, Ky 40741. Visitation begins at 12pm with the funeral services at 4pm. Directly following the services, the family will host a gathering with food and refreshments at the London Country Club Banquet hall from 5 to 7pm.

In lieu of flowers the family request memorial donations be made to either Operation Unite (donate here), the National Multiple Sclerosis Society or the Baptist Health Foundation (donate here).

Vernon Mark Ventress, Jr., age 91, passed away on Tuesday, January 6th, 2026, in Baton Rouge, LA. He was born in Baton Rouge on October 27th, 1934, to his loving parents, the late Roberta Nawandy Ventress and Vernon Mark Ventress, Sr. Vernon is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Mary Ellen Ventress. He was the dedicated father of his two children; his son, Mark Andrew Ventress and his wife Eva Ventress; and his daughter, Jennifer Lyle Ventress Duval and her husband Jim Duval; and his cherished grandchildren Ava Manuel Ventress, Boston James Duval, Josephine Pace Duval, and Vivian Lee Batile Ventress. Vernon attended Natchez High School in Natchez, Mississippi, where he was an All-State first-string quarterback during his senior year. He later attended LSU, graduating with a master’s degree in education and becoming a member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity. Following his service in the United States Army, from which he received an honorable discharge, Vernon began his professional career as a teacher at Istrouma High School and served as a representative for the Science Research Association (SRA). He later worked for Northwestern Mutual, where he remained until his retirement. He was an active member of many organizations throughout his life, including the Beaver Club Lafayette, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, the Church of the Ascension, Oakbourne Country Club, the Krewe of Gabriel (where he served as a duke), and Red Lerille’s Health Club. In Baton Rouge, he was a devoted member of St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church. In his spare time, Vernon was an avid golfer and outdoorsman who loved duck hunting, fishing, joke-telling and cruising with his friends. However, his favorite pastime was acorn hunting with his grandchildren when they were toddlers, a joy he treasured deeply. The family would like to extend a special thank-you to Audubon Hospice and heartfelt gratitude to the staff and friends of Barclay House of Baton Rouge, especially in the memory care unit, for their compassionate care. Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service to be held at Greenoaks Memorial Park, 9595 Florida Blvd, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70815 on Saturday, January 17th, 2026. Visitation will take place from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by the service at 12:00 p.m. Inurnment will follow in Greenoaks Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be made to a charity of your choice.

William Howard Morris Jr., “Bill Morris,” was peacefully welcomed into his Heavenly Father’s arms on April 21, 2026. He was a bold and righteous man who loved the Lord and was grateful for the life given to him. Bill made it his mission to honor the Lord every day. He had a passion for life that was infectious to anyone who met him. Bill’s overflowing joy made every occasion feel like a celebration, and he was proud to have his precious wife, Camille, by his side.

Bill was born on June 9, 1942, in Jackson, Mississippi to parents, William Howard Morris and Sarah Millsaps Buie Morris. Bill graduated from Murrah High School in 1960 and from The University of Mississippi in 1964 with a BBA and as a distinguished military graduate. While at Ole Miss, he served as president of his fraternity, Delta Kappa Epsilon. From this day forward, Ole Miss became an integral part of Bill’s life, and his passion for the school was apparent by all who knew him. He received his commission in the US Army and entered active duty in August 1964. He served as the admin officer for the Director of Instruction at Fort Rucker, Alabama, where helicopter pilots were trained for Vietnam.

Bill married Camille Kling on September 9, 1972, at Galloway Memorial Methodist Church. Throughout their marriage, Bill and Camille have loved traveling the world, entertaining family and friends in their home and spending time with their daughters, Kathryn and Camille and their families. They are affectionately known by their grandchildren as “Honey and Bee.” Bill was a devoted member of his church family, Holy Trinity Anglican Church.

Following his father’s lead, Bill chose a career in the insurance business and began with Connecticut Mutual Life in 1966. He obtained his professional designations of Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) early in his career and became a member of the Million Dollar Round Table. In October 1980, he formed an insurance firm now known as The William Morris Group, P.A. He frequently excelled to the level of Court of the Table and Top of the Table, which is highly regarded globally. Bill authored two successful books on disability insurance that were widely received. He recently retired from the William Morris Group on April 1, 2026. Bill leaves a legacy of business partners and clients with whom he was deeply connected.

Often described as a renaissance man of today -gentleman, compassionate friend, businessman, writer, musician and lover of the arts. Bill’s photography and writing abilities led to his first book, Ole Miss at Oxford, A Part of our Heart and Soul in 2009, a coffee table book that sold 7000 copies. His memoir, This Magic Moment: My Journey of Friends, Faith and the Father’s Love was published in 2019 and has sold over 2000 copies. This book chronicles his amazing decades of long friendships with four singers from the doo-wop era, Prentiss Barnes and Harvey Fuqua of The Moonglows; Bill Pinkney of The Drifters; and Rufus McKay of The Red Tops and Ink Spots. Prentiss, Harvey and Bill were inducted into the Rock ‘N’ Roll Hall of Fame where Bill was their special guest. Bill loved these men and considered his relationship with them as part of God’s hand upon his life. He gave eulogies and sang at all of their funerals. Bill frequently found himself on stage with these beloved singers. They even referred to him as “Brother Morris.” One of the most notable moments was when he sang with The Moonglows at Symphony Hall in Boston at the Doo-wop Hall of Fame in 2005.

Bill’s relationship with the Lord began as a young boy at the feet of his grandmother, Mrs. Webster Millsaps Buie, who taught him how to pray. This sustained Bill through his teenage and young adult years until a pivotal point in Bill’s faith began in 1983 at a Cursillo event with Camille. In this moment, a new thirst for a deeper relationship with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, became paramount to him. This led Bill to a discipline of journaling daily, as he committed to give the first hour of the day to the Lord. From 1983 to 2026, he penned his love letters to the Lord. His last journal entry was on April 20, 2026. These journals are filled with prayers for his precious wife, Camille, his two daughters, Camille and Kathryn and their families.

One of his greatest accomplishments, for the kingdom, was in 2003 when Bill and Camille became one of the founding couples of Holy Trinity Anglican Church. Bill was an active member of the prayer team, Vestry, and led the first capital campaign for the church building fund. Bill greatly cherished his Holy Trinity Family.

In Bill’s final year of life, he wrote a second memoir, Grace Upon Grace, about how his faith has blessed him immensely as he experienced God’s blessings through the peaks and valleys of life. His family will have the book published in his honor.

He is survived by his cherished wife, Camille, of 53 years, his two daughters, Camille Morris Hellwig (Jason) and granddaughters, Kathryn Jane and Charlotte Lowry of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Kathryn Morris Trotter (Chris) and grandchildren Caroline Millsaps, Elizabeth DuBose and William Cochran of Birmingham, Alabama. Bill is also survived by his three loving siblings, Sarah Buie Morris, Robert (Bob) Frank Morris and Joseph Lowry Morris, of Jackson, Mississippi. A Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Madison. Visitation: 12:30-2:00 with a Celebration of Life: 2:00 pm at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, 432 Bozeman Road, Madison, Mississippi 39110.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials made to Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Madison, Mississippi.

Willis Wendell III, a resident of Newmarket, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026. He was born on April 2, 1942, in Amsterdam, New York, the son of Willis Wendell II and Martha Jean Machold.

Willis is survived by his beloved wife, Suzanne Wells Roux, with whom he shared a partnership marked by adventure, travel, and humor. He was a caring father to his two children, Jennifer W. Benton and Willis Wendell IV, and a proud grandfather to Henry and Madeleine Benton. He is also survived by his brother, Jay Wendell, and his sister, Andrea Wendell-Strauss.

Willis graduated from Bethlehem Central High School in Bethlehem NY. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics from Middlebury College, where he was a member of the ROTC and the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity. Willis later completed his MBA at Columbia University and his education laid the foundation for a long professional career spanning materials management, manufacturing, and consulting attaining a role as Vice President at a top global management consulting firm.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army Infantry, achieving the rank of Lieutenant. During his service, he was stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska, an experience that deepened his appreciation for the outdoors and adventure. He completed his service with an honorable discharge.

An accomplished athlete, Willis was a competitive downhill and cross-country skier in his younger years, served as a member of the ski patrol, and remained a lifelong recreational skier. He was equally passionate about sailing, both competitively and for leisure, completing multiple long offshore passages, including two trans-Atlantic crossings, spending extensive time exploring the Mediterranean, and participating in the Newport–Bermuda Race. He also excelled in collegiate track and field as a high jumper.

Beyond athletics, Willis was endlessly curious and hands-on. He enjoyed carpentry and woodworking, had a natural aptitude for mechanics, and found great pleasure in reading and lifelong learning. Musically, he played the coronet and harmonica.

Willis will be remembered for his great sense of humor, affable nature, and deep commitment to principle and integrity. He was a caring husband and father, a loyal friend, and a man who truly loved adventure-whether on snow, sea, or through new ideas and experiences. His warmth, curiosity, and kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

A celebration of Willis’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages honoring his memory by embracing adventure, lifelong learning, and time spent with loved ones.