Mr. Gerald Dennis Register, Sr., of Hartford, Alabama, passed away on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at his residence following a brave battle with cancer. He was 71 years old.
Gerald was born on July 14, 1955, in Columbus, Georgia, to the late Lee Register and Grace Baxley Davis. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Germany. Gerald was a carpenter by trade and later worked for Dowling Lumber Company for many years.
Gerald had a true love for music and singing. He could sing just about any genre and especially enjoyed sharing his gift of music with others. He often sang gospel music at the nursing home and retirement village, bringing joy and encouragement to those around him. Gerald loved his church and his church family dearly.
Gerald was a good man with a kind and forgiving heart. He was quick to forgive and even quicker to ask for forgiveness. His faith, his love for others, and his willingness to share his God-given gift of music will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.
In addition to his parents, Gerald was preceded in death by his brothers, David Earl Register and Danny Lee Register, Sr.
A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Pondtown Church with Bro. Zachary Hayes officiating and Shelby Lett of Bottoms Garden Chapel Funeral Home directing. A special time of fellowship with the family will follow the service.
Gerald is survived by his wife, Carolyn Register; his children, Carl (Michelle), Gerald, Jr., Daniel (Chasity), Tracy, Stacey (Angel), Renee (Cindi), and Jennifer (Brad); 18 grandchildren; and a special cousin, Kenny Savell (Robin).
The family would especially like to thank the nurses and case manager, Shelby Brackins, of Southern Care Hospice for the love, compassion, and care given to Gerald and his family during this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Pondtown Church in Memory of Gerald Register.
Harvey Derrel Hagler, a resident of Dothan, passed away peacefully October 19, 2026, at Westside Terrace surrounded by his loving family. He was 90.
Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, October 23, 2026, at Heritage Baptist Church with Reverend Jeff Ross officiating. Interment will be immediately following the service in Salem Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation will be held 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Glover Funeral Home & Crematory of Dothan.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Heritage Baptist Church, 1951 Westgate Parkway, Dothan AL 36303, or Salem Baptist Church, 3336 County Road 23, Ariton, AL 36311.
Harvey was born to the late Walden & Vela Mae Hagler on November 7, 1935, in the Blue Springs area of Barbour County, and he considered his childhood hometown to be Skipperville.
He graduated from Ozark High School, received a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Studies and Physical Education from Troy State University, and received a Master’s in School Administration and AA Certificate at Auburn University.
He spent 18 years working in the Dale County School System, first as a teacher, then as principal, then as Superintendent. In 1976 he began working for Dothan City Schools as Finance Director before retiring from education after 30 years of service.
Not one to be idle, he took on various jobs after retirement, overseeing renovation projects at Wallace College, then in later years delivering cars for Hertz and Toyota, and working as a courtesy driver for Toyota.
He shared his kindness and faith to all he met and served both in the community and with his faith family. As a deacon, he ministered at multiple churches throughout his life and was a faithful member of Heritage Baptist Church in his later years. He spent many years active in the Kiwanis Club, served as song leader at Westside Terrace Worship Services, and became a fond visitor of many businesses and doctor’s offices sharing his popular homemade peanut brittle labeled with John 3:16.
The family is grateful for the love and care from the staff at Gentiva Hospice and Westside Terrace.
Harvey was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Wilmer Hagler (Ruth), and Don Hagler (Gail).
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Ina Merle Hagler; a son, Karl Hagler (Elaine); a daughter, Sherry Snell (Brent); five grandchildren, Maegan Fuller, Ross Fuller (Molly), Travis Hagler, Rachel Dean (Jacob), Matthew Snell (Julia); seven great-grandchildren, Mackenzie Killingsworth, Hadley Childree, Hank Fuller, Briggs Fuller, Sadie Philpot, Addison Dean, and Brooks Snell; along with numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and many friends.
Serving as active pallbearers will be Glenn Johnson, Greg Hagler, Ross Fuller, Travis Hagler, Jacob Dean, and Matthew Snell.
Glover Funeral Home and Crematory has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Richard M. Mearns Sr. went to be with his Lord and Savior on October 19, 2026, at home, surrounded by his loving family, in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 92.
Born on June 27, 1934, in Geneva, New York, Richard lived a life marked by devotion and service to his Lord, his family, St. Columba Catholic Church, his community, and his country. He was the son of the late Arthur Guy Mearns and Pauline Agnes Mearns. Throughout his long life, he was known as a courageous, creative, and kind man whose steady presence left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Richard shared 67 devoted years of marriage with his beloved wife, Barbara Flick Mearns. Their marriage was a lasting example of commitment, partnership, and love. Together, they built a family rooted in faith, respect, and loyalty. He treasured his role as a husband and father, and those closest to him will always remember his warmth, his dependability, and the many ways he showed his love through service and action.
A proud veteran, Richard served his country in the United States Army, including time stationed in Korea. He later served in the New York Army National Guard before completing his military career in the United States Army Reserve, where he retired in 1994 after many years of honorable service. His military career was a source of great pride, reflecting the discipline, dedication, and sense of duty that remained central to his character throughout his life.
One particularly meaningful part of Richard’s military service was the opportunity to serve alongside his son, Richard “Rick” Mearns Jr., in the 98th Division of the United States Army Reserve. The two frequently served together at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, sharing an experience that brought together their family bond and their commitment to serving their country. These years were a special part of Richard’s legacy as both a father and a soldier.
Richard’s commitment to service extended beyond the military. He volunteered as a fire policeman with the Romulus, New York, Fire Department and also served as a volunteer auxiliary police officer in Geneva, New York. Through these roles, he gave his time to help protect others and serve the communities in which he lived. He also served as an aide at the VA, where he offered support and compassion to fellow veterans. Whether in uniform, at work, or among his neighbors, Richard believed in contributing wherever he could make a difference.
Richard was also a gifted, award-winning photographer whose talent allowed him to capture some of life’s most meaningful moments. Alongside his wife, Barbara, he operated a photography studio in upstate New York known as Barbrich Studio, a name that reflected their partnership in both marriage and business. Specializing in portraits, weddings, and other special occasions, Richard preserved memories for countless families and individuals. His artistic eye and professional care earned him the trust and appreciation of those he served. Photography was more than a livelihood; it was an expression of his creativity and his ability to recognize and preserve the beauty of life’s important moments.
Richard was a man who enjoyed staying busy and always seemed to have a project in mind. His daughter-in-law, Karen, would often joke that whenever he came to visit, he was never quite happy unless there was something that needed doing. That quality was especially evident when Rick was deployed to Iraq, as Richard found ways to stay involved, lend a hand, and help wherever he was needed. His willingness to work, fix, build, and serve was one of the many ways he expressed his love for his family. He did not simply visit; he found a way to make himself useful, leaving things a little better than he found them.
Throughout his life, Richard and his family lived in different places, and wherever they settled, he found ways to become part of a church family. He served his churches in many different roles, offering his time, talents, and faithful example to others. His commitment to the church was not limited to attending services; he believed in being involved, helping where needed, and living out his faith through his actions. The example he set for his children through years of Christian service, generosity, and devotion will continue to shape his family and carry his legacy forward for generations to come.
Richard was a Christian and attended St. Columba Catholic Church in Dothan, Alabama. His faith was an important part of his life, offering strength, comfort, and guidance through the years. He valued the fellowship of his church community and treasured the friendships he formed with fellow believers. His faith remained a guiding influence in the way he treated others, cared for his family, and approached the responsibilities of life.
Whether behind a camera, serving his country, helping a neighbor, working on a project, or serving his church, Richard carried himself with dignity and purpose. He was a man who could be counted on, whose hands were rarely idle, and whose life reflected a balance of faith, skill, service, and character. His legacy will live on not only in the photographs he created and the work he completed, but also in the family he loved, the people he helped, and the example he set for those who follow him.
Richard is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Barbara Flick Mearns; his adored children, Richard “Rick” Mearns Jr. (Karen), Lynda Mearns Dillender, Debra Mearns, and Janet Angelovich (Jeff); his grandchildren, Ryan Mearns, Thomas Lowry, Michele Pye, Matthew Lowry, Kenneth Lowry, Heidi Mearns, Jennifer Smith, and Kelly Jackson; 15 and counting great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind a loving extended family, his brothers and sisters in Christ at St. Columba, and many dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Guy Mearns and Pauline Agnes Mearns; his siblings, Arthur John Mearns Sr. and Mary Elizabeth Porterfield; and his son-in-law, Harry Dillender.
A celebration of Richard’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 24, 2026, in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel. The service will include a Liturgy of the Word, with Scripture readings led by Father Jim of St. Columba Catholic Church in Dothan. Following the service, military honors will be rendered by the military honor guard and the Patriot Guard Riders. Father Jim will also offer a graveside prayer service for immediate family. Following the military honors, guests are invited to gather in the reception center for light refreshments and fellowship as they remember and celebrate Richard’s life. A memorial mass is scheduled for Friday, October 30, 2026, at 9am at St Columba Catholic Church.
The family would like to thank the Lord for bringing so many extraordinarily caring and kind people into their lives, providing comfort, peace, and guidance throughout this difficult time. Special thanks are extended to Nita, Richard’s Enhabit Hospice registered nurse, who guided the family every step of the way, along with the entire Enhabit Hospice team. Their compassion and support have meant so much to Richard and his family.
The family would also like to express heartfelt gratitude to Bobbie from Cornerstone, who developed a wonderful, caring relationship with Richard and the entire family.
A special thank-you goes to his sisters and girlfriends in Christ, Melissa, Kathy, and Kristen, who were such a blessing to Dad. Their friendship, companionship, and time together brought him so much joy, including the many cups of coffee shared at Dakota after Friday morning Mass. Their kindness and faithful friendship will always be remembered with gratitude.
The family would like to recognize Sister Chris of the Trinitarian Sisters at the Blessed Trinity Shrine Retreat Center for the special role she played in Dad’s life. As his spiritual advisor for many years, her faith, guidance, and compassion meant so much to him, and we are deeply grateful for the lasting impact she had on his life.
DOTHAN. . .Eddie Maurice Plummer, a resident of Dothan, passed away Tuesday morning, October 20, 2026, at his home. He was 85.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 P.M. Saturday, October 24, 2026, in the Bethel Baptist Church with Dr. Ricky Plummer and Deacon & Sunday School teacher, Gary Granger officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:30 until 3:00 P.M. Saturday in the church sanctuary. Burial will follow in the Mount of Olives Memorial Garden in Cottonwood.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bethel Baptist Church “Building Fund”, 3257 East Cottonwood Road, Dothan, AL 36301.
Mr. Plummer was born and raised in Marion, Alabama in Perry County, son of the late Clinton Maurice Plummer and Zelma Grace Smith Plummer. He served his country in the Army Reserve. Mr. Plummer was a member of Bethel Baptist Church. He was retired from FedEx as a truck driver. In later years, Mr. Plummer attended Troy University where he received an Auctioneer License. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, telling stories and buying storage units.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Betty Massey Plummer, two daughters, Deedra Plummer Edwards (Clay), Cottonwood; and Paige Plummer Whigham (Greg), Dothan; a son, Dr. Ricky Plummer (Leah), Dothan; two sisters, Gail Ivey (Joe), Selma, AL; and Sara Nell VanSickler (Bill), Ft. Worth, TX; grandchildren, Ross Blythe (Tina), Joseph Blythe (Kaylyn), Maddie Patton, Alli Curry (Ethan), Presley Waller (Aubrey), Brandon Plummer (Bethany), Jansen Plummer (Emmalee), Jessica Whigham, Caleb Whigham (Laura), Felicia Edwards and Amy Daniel (Shawn); nineteen great-grandchildren.
Serving as active pallbearers will be Ross Blythe, Joseph Blythe, Brandon Plummer, Jansen Plummer, Clinton Blythe, Greg Whigham and Clay Edwards.
HOLMAN-HEADLAND MORTUARY & CREMATIONS IS IN CHARGE OF ARRANGEMENTS. Phone 334-693-3371. may sign a guest register at www.holmanmortuaries.com. This establishment does not own a crematory.
Melba Hawn of Dothan, Alabama, passed away on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at the age of 101.
Born December 10, 1924, in Dothan, Melba was one of ten children born to Jim and Clara Barton. Throughout her long and meaningful life, she was guided by faith, strengthened by hard work, and devoted to the people she loved.
At 18, Melba met James Mosely at Max’s Grill in Dothan. They married two years later in Marianna, Florida, beginning a 35-year marriage and a life shaped by his 22 years of service in the United States Air Force. Along the way, they welcomed their daughter, JoAnn. Their travels took them to Texas, Maine, Michigan, Florida, Alabama, Germany, and the Philippines.
After James’s passing, Melba continued to serve others. She became director of the Taylor Senior Center, a position she held for 20 years. During that time she met James Hawn, and they shared ten years of marriage before his passing. In recognition of her dedication to older adults, Melba was inducted into the Hall of Fame for Alabama Senior Centers in 2002.
Faith was a steady source of comfort throughout Melba’s life. She was an active member of Tabernacle Methodist Church in Dothan, and her favorite verse was Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
She found joy in jigsaw puzzles, movies, sewing, and bowling, and in the companionship and kindness of those around her. Above all, Melba treasured her family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Clara Barton; her husbands, James Mosely and James Hawn; and her beloved daughter, JoAnn Closson.
She is survived by her grandchildren, Chris Closson (Holli) and Mike Closson (Deanna); her great-grandchildren, Abbey Morris (Dakota), Chandler Closson, Joshua Closson, and Benjamin Closson; her great-great-grandchildren, Miller Morris and Margo Morris; and many other relatives and friends.
Melba leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, faith, perseverance, and service. Her life touched generations, and she will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of Whitehall Assisted Living and Dayspring Hospice for the compassionate care they gave Melba, and to her loving church family at Tabernacle Methodist Church for their prayers, friendship, and support.
Visitation will be held Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Tabernacle Methodist Church in Dothan, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Memory Hill Cemetery.
Elizabeth Griffis Williams, age 72, of Newton, Alabama, passed away on October 17, 2026. She was born on May 8, 1954, and was raised in Orlando, Florida, where she spent her early years before building a life marked by kindness, devotion, and steady love for those around her.
Elizabeth was a loving and faith-filled woman whose gentle spirit touched the lives of many. She was known for being goofy, fun, and deeply caring, and she had a special way of making others feel welcome and valued. Her life reflected a heart that was always ready to help, comfort, and encourage. She carried herself with warmth and grace, and her presence brought light to her family, friends, and all who knew her.
She worked as an LPN at a nursing home, where her compassion and dedication were evident in the care she gave to others. Elizabeth approached her work with a servant’s heart and understood the importance of treating people with dignity and respect. Her coworkers and those she cared for could see that her kindness was genuine, and she took pride in offering comfort and support to those in need.
Elizabeth found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. She loved nature and enjoyed spending time outdoors whenever she could. She also loved her pets and cherished the companionship they gave her. At home, she enjoyed cooking and gardening, both of which reflected her nurturing spirit and her appreciation for creating beauty and comfort. She was also an avid viewer of American Idol, The Voice, and CBN on television, and she enjoyed the entertainment and inspiration those programs brought her.
Her faith was an important part of her life, and she lived as a Christian with trust, hope, and devotion. Those who knew Elizabeth will remember her as someone whose faith guided her actions and whose love for others was sincere and unwavering. She was a woman who believed in caring for people, lifting them up, and meeting life with a spirit of gratitude and resilience.
Elizabeth is survived by her son, Josh Williams and his wife, Tracy; her grandchildren, Brittany Shahabi (Ali), and Dylan Senn; her great-grandchild, Kian Cyrus Shahabi; her niece, Sandy Wooten; and her great nephew, Lee Wooten.
She was preceded in death by her parents, as well as her sisters, Carolyn Trotter and her husband, Ray, and Betty Hamar. Their memories remained a part of her life, and she carried her family bonds with love and respect throughout her years.
Her life was a testament to kindness, devotion, and the quiet strength of a woman who cared deeply for her family and those around her. Though she will be greatly missed, her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
