John David Phipps, born on May 16, 1966, passed away on September 28, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama, leaving behind a life marked by devotion, hard work, laughter, and love.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Candy Phipps, who stood by his side through every season of life with enduring love and partnership. He also leaves behind his many cherished family members, including his siblings Charles Edward, Rebecca Ann, Catherine Elaine, Linda Pauline, Diane Elizabeth, Nancy Louise, William Timothy, Mary Ellen, Dorothy Jane, Lori Lynn, Michelle Evelyn, and Franklin Richard. He was preceded in death by his siblings Thomas Clifford and Deborah Jean. He was also deeply loved by many special nieces and nephews, as well as his godson, Ryland, all of whom held a special place in his heart.
John was known throughout his life for his strong work ethic and his dedication to doing whatever needed to be done. He worked at Phipps Cabinets as an Installation Foreman, but his contributions extended far beyond any single title. He did it all at the shop and was respected for his skill, dependability, and willingness to help wherever he was needed. His presence was a steady one, and his commitment to his work reflected the same character that defined every part of his life.
Faith was also an important part of John’s journey. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where his life and values were shaped by a sense of service, family, and devotion. Those who knew him understood that he lived with a generous spirit and a sincere desire to be of help to others. He was the kind of man who would do anything for anyone, and that willingness to serve left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
John was a man of many interests and talents, and he embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. Friends lovingly knew him by the nickname Beaker from the Muppets, a fitting reflection of his playful spirit and memorable personality. He was funny, joyful, and happy, and his phenomenal laugh could brighten any room. He had a way of making others feel at ease, and his humor and warmth were among the many gifts he shared so freely.
He enjoyed bowling and was proud of bowling a 299, a remarkable achievement that reflected both his skill and his love of the game. He also enjoyed golf and was thrilled to have made a hole in one. He loved Disney and remained a big kid at heart, always able to appreciate the wonder and joy in simple things. He especially enjoyed the mountains of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, where he found beauty, peace, and memorable times with those he loved.
John was also known for being someone who knew a little about a lot. He asked questions, retained knowledge, and had a natural curiosity that made conversations with him interesting and meaningful. He was a Braves fan and loved Alabama football, cheering with enthusiasm and loyalty. Above all, he loved his wife.
Those who knew John will remember him for his kindness, his humor, his steady presence, and his generous heart. He leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, and cherished memories that will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends. His life was one of faith, hard work, laughter, and deep affection for the people and things he loved most.
John David Phipps will be remembered with great love and deep respect. His memory will remain a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A celebration of John’s life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 2pm in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service.
Bobby Jack Rathburn of Chancellor, Alabama, passed away on Saturday, September 26, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. He was 76.
A Celebration of Life visitation and fellowship will be held in his honor from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm, on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 in the chapel of Warren Holloway Ward Funeral Home in Geneva, Alabama.
Bobby was born in Ashville, North Carolina, on September 18, 1950, to the late Lattie Erwin Jr. and Genevieve Dixie Rathburn. He loved spending time outdoors, especially riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. He also enjoyed camping, fishing, and sightseeing, always making the most of the time he spent enjoying the outdoors. He faithfully served his country in the US Army for more than 18 years.
In addition to his parents, Bobby was preceded in death by his wife of over 45 years, Jane Yow Rathburn and one sister.
He is survived by his love, Melba Beasley of Chancellor, AL ; two bonus daughters, Joy Fulford (Chad) of Midland City, AL and Stephanie Pilot (Scott) of Napier Field. AL; three bonus grandchildren; Mileah Williams (Josh) of Midland City, AL, Shelton Messick of Headland, AL and Shane Messick of Napier Field, AL; and two bonus great-grandchildren; Chance and Cayden Williams both of Midland City, AL; one sister; Debbie Smith (Sid) of NC; one brother; George Rathburn of Hartford, AL; the Yow family; a sister-in-law, Diane Montiforte (Joey) and a brother-in-law, Glenn Yow (Louann); two fur babies Cocoa and Spike; and a host of special nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.
Warren~Holloway~Ward Funeral Home (334) 684-9999, is in charge of arrangements. “Continuing The Trust You’ve Placed In Us” To sign a guest register, please visit: www.whwfuneralhome.com
Ricky Brooks, who was born on March 22, 1951, in Alabama and passed away on September 28, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama, lived a life marked by love, faith, and steady devotion to the people and values he held dear.
Funeral services will be held at 2 P.M. Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Ward Wilson Funeral Home with Dr. Cecil Sanders officiating. Burial will follow in Memory Hill Cemetery with Ward Wilson Funeral Home directing.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1 to 2 on Saturday, October 3, 2026, one hour prior to the service.
Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to the Walk to Emmaus Program, 621 County Rd. 79, Headland , Al 36345.
Serving as pallbearers will be David Butterfield, Mark Butterfield, Tommy Morris, Jonas Brooks, Travis Brooks, Paul Segars, and Harnage Elliott.
He will be remembered as a loving father, brother, and uncle, and as a man whose presence brought comfort and strength to those around him. He was hard working throughout his life and dedicated many years of service to the Fluor Corporation, where he gave his time and energy with commitment and pride.
Ricky loved the Lord and remained faithful in his walk of faith. He understood that this life was temporary and believed with confidence that his ultimate home was with the Lord. That conviction shaped the way he lived, and it was evident in the kindness, humility, and purpose he carried each day. He also devoted time and energy to the Walk to Emmaus Program, where he shared in fellowship and service that reflected his deep spiritual commitment.
He found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. He spent his leisure time building his pecan orchard and took pleasure in being close to nature. He especially enjoyed freshwater fishing, an activity that gave him peace and allowed him to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.
Ricky was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Junior and Anges Pauline Brooks, his sister, Marilyn Morris, and his nephew, Ben Morris. He is survived by his son, Ricky J. Brooks; his sister, Brenda Butterfield; his brothers, Tom Brooks and Mike Brooks; and several nieces and nephews. His family will cherish his memory and the many ways he showed love, loyalty, and care throughout his life.
Those who knew Ricky will remember him as a loving and faith-filled man whose life was a testimony to perseverance, devotion, and trust in God. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, and in the example he set through the way he lived each day. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who were blessed to know him.
Mrs. Doris Mathews Hammond, of Dothan, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at her home. She was 85.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at Burns Assembly of God Church Cemetery, with Sorrells Funeral Home of Slocomb directing.
Mrs. Hammond was born on October 12, 1940, in North Carolina to the late Cecil and Margaret Mathews. She was a loving mother and an adoring grandmother who cherished her family. Above all, she was a woman of unwavering faith who loved Christ with her whole heart. Her love for the Lord was evident in the way she lived her life. She cherished reading God’s Word and kept its teachings close to her heart, allowing her faith to guide her throughout her life. Her relationship with Christ was the foundation of her life and a constant source of strength, comfort, and peace.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, James Patrick Yancey, and one brother.
Survivors include her son, Jeffery Yancey; grandchildren, Harley Vasquez (Allister), James Spencer Yancey II, and James Patrick Yancey, Jr.; great-granddaughter, Cecilia Vasquez; five sisters; several nieces and nephews; and other extended family members and friends.
Mrs. Hammond’s life was a testament to her enduring faith and the love she had for her Lord. She now rests in the presence of the Savior she loved so dearly, having received the promise of eternal life. Her faith and the love she shared will remain a lasting part of the lives of those who knew her.
Thomas Harry Grooms, passed away on September 28, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama, the same city where he was born on October 11, 1971. He was 54 years old.
Thomas found joy in the simple things and appreciated the comfort of home. He liked to relax at home, spend time with his family, and enjoy the company of those he loved most. Thomas was known as a jokester, and his sense of humor often lifted the spirits of everyone around him. He also took pride in his clothes and shoes, always presenting himself with style and care.
Thomas leaves behind his sons, Makendris Wymes and Khamarian Glanton, as well as one grandchild who brought him joy and pride. He is also survived by his father, Bobby Mcclain, and his siblings, Maria Jones, Shelia Grooms, Kenneth Grooms, Calvin Grooms, and James Grooms. Thomas was preceded in death by his mother, Loretta Grooms. In addition, he leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family members who will carry his memory forward with love.
Thomas Harry Grooms will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. His life touched many, and his memory will continue to bring smiles, comfort, and reflection to those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com
Debbie Ann Rudd, born August 14, 1964, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2026 after a three year long battle with cancer. She was surrounded by family and friends.
Debbie was everyone’s “Aunt Debbie” and extended her generosity to those around her. She took pride in being the backbone for those she held so dearly to her heart and especially loved all children as if they were her own. Her hard-work and dedication contributed much to her overall character, making her such a loyal and caring person who wasn’t afraid to crack a joke. Anyone who knew her would say “Aunt Debbie” could be found fishing in any body of water that held fish, or sitting outside with a cup of black coffee enjoying the beauty of nature in her free time.
Family was the most important to her. Debbie is survived by her children, Jimmy Fleming, Blake Senn (Kendra), Necole Rudd (Jordan), and many nieces and nephews.
Celebration of Life information will be disclosed by the family at a later date.
