Paul Phillips, age 60, of Donalsonville, GA, passed away Tuesday morning, July 7, 2026, at Southeast Health Medical Center in Dothan, AL.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Oakview Church of God with Rev. John Gunter and Pastor Julius officiating. The family request in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to Seminole County Warpath on Cancer, 200 West 10th Street, Donalsonville, GA 39845, Attn: Jan Taylor.
Mr. Phillips was born in Donalsonville, GA on August 27, 1965, to Albert Phillips and Mollie Sutton Phillips. He worked for Covenant Steel as a welding fitter and inspector.
Paul was the kind of person who never met a stranger. He could strike up a conversation with anyone and had a way of making people feel welcome, valued, and at ease. A devoted Alabama Crimson Tide fan, he rarely missed a chance to cheer on his team and proudly shared his love for Alabama football with everyone around him. He had a gift for making people laugh, whether through a quick joke, a funny story, or his playful personality. And his laughter was as memorable as the joy he brought to others. He will be remembered for his friendly spirit, his sense of humor, and the way he could light up a room simply by being himself. ROLL TIDE!!
He leaves to cherish his memory, his parents, Albert Phillips and Mollie Sutton Phillips; his wife, Verna Mixon Phillips; his children, Erica Drew (Ben), Valorie Scarbrough (Jeffrey), P.J. Phillips (Shelby Myers) and Josh Phillips; his step-children, Roger Ashby, Amanda Burroughs (Bubba) and Diana Owens (Lee); his grandchildren, Alyson Chudzik (Donald Epley), Benion Drew, Faith Drew, Ryder Scarbrough, Delanie McMillan (Deangelo), Timothy McMillan (Megan), Zachary McMillan (Alexis), Tori Edwards, Mati Breeden, Noah Owens, Lily Owens, Dylan Owens, Jesse Owens (Sarah); and his great grandchildren, Braylon Epley, Riley Epley, Kyler McClendon, Ava McClendon, Riley McMillan, Amelia Owens, and Oaklynn Cloud; his brother, Doug Phillips (Tammy); his sisters, Angela Heath (Danny)and Ashley Forsyth (Ian). He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
Mr. Phillips was preceded in death by his brother, Charles Benjamin Dukes “Chuck”; his grandchild, Riley Epley; and his best friend, Sonny Lucas.
Margarita “Marg” Ramos Huggins, age 64, of Dothan, Alabama, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.
Born on October 5, 1961, in Suffern, New York, Marg lived her life exactly as she wanted, boldly, generously, creatively, and unapologetically herself. She never met a stranger, never hesitated to lend a helping hand, and never let someone leave her home hungry.
Marg dedicated her life to caring for others, spending many years serving as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Caring wasn’t simply what she did for a living; it was who she was. Whether tending to her patients, comforting a friend, or opening her home to someone in need, she gave freely of herself without expecting anything in return. If she bought something she loved and discovered someone else admired it or needed it more, chances were she’d hand it over with a smile.
A gifted artist with an eye for beauty, Marg found joy in painting and creating. Flowers were among her greatest loves. One of her favorite projects was transforming an old iron bedframe she discovered in an antique store into a breathtaking garden masterpiece. She carefully planted flowers to resemble a made bed, with the tallest blooms forming the pillows and cascading layers of blossoms creating a colorful floral quilt, a perfect reflection of the creativity and love she poured into everything she touched.
Her kitchen was another canvas. Family and friends eagerly anticipated her famous Puerto Rican pernil, slow-roasted to perfection, along with her hearty chili and comforting lasagna. Around Marg’s table, no one was ever just a guest, they became family.
She lived life out loud, with a heart as big as her love for her family and a sharp wit to match. Marg was a woman of fierce love, zero filter, and an unforgettable spark. If she loved you, you were fed, fiercely protected, and, every now and then, lovingly put in your place with a perfectly timed look or an enthusiastic “¡Ay, por favor!” She danced to the beat of her own drum, spoke the truth without hesitation, and filled every room with laughter, music, and just the right amount of beautiful chaos. Her Puerto Rican sass was legendary, but it was always wrapped in unwavering loyalty and unconditional love.
Above all, Marg was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished sister, treasured sister-in-law, and proud aunt. Her greatest masterpiece wasn’t found on a canvas or in a garden, it was the family and friendships she nurtured with endless love, generosity, and joy.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Delores Mann, and her brother, Al Ramos.
Those left to treasure her memory include her loving husband of 24 years, Bill Huggins; her son, Joey Gonzalez (Tanya); her sisters, Rosa Figueroa (Mario), Lisa Conklin, Monica Johnson, and Juanita Pelletier; her nephew, Gabriel Figueroa; along with several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives were forever brighter because Marg was part of them.
Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that somewhere there is a beautiful garden blooming a little brighter, a kitchen filled with incredible food, and a room echoing with laughter because Marg has arrived. Her vibrant spirit, artistic soul, generous heart, unmistakable sass, and fierce love will continue to bloom in the lives of everyone fortunate enough to have known her.
The family honored her life in a private, intimate gathering.
MIDLAND CITY… Jimmie Wayne Mallory, a resident of Midland City, Alabama, passed away Saturday morning, July 25, 2026 at the home of his fiance’ in Dothan, Alabama following a long illness . He was 79.
Funeral services will be held 3:00 P.M. Tuesday, July 28, 2026 at Wright Funeral Home and Crematory with Reverend Paul Edenfield. Burial will follow in the Gardens of Memory Cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday, July 27, 2026 from 4:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M. at the funeral home.
Mr. Wayne Mallory was born at Adams Mill in Dale County, Alabama, to the late William Robert Mallory and Mildred Cain Mallory. He was a proud graduate of Dale County High School, Class of 1965.
Wayne dedicated forty-four years of his life to working as a safety engineer. Throughout his distinguished career, he traveled extensively across the United States, helping build and perform demolition work at nuclear facilities. He also proudly served his country in the National Guard for six years.
Following his career, Wayne continued serving others by volunteering for many years at Flowers Hospital and Southeast Alabama Medical Center. He was later employed by Southeast Alabama Medical Center for four years, where his caring nature and willingness to help others continued to shine.
A faithful member of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Midland City, Wayne enjoyed spending time outdoors fishing, playing golf, watching NASCAR races, and cheering on his beloved Auburn Tigers. He especially treasured the time spent with his family and friends.
Wayne never met a stranger. He had a gift for conversation and could make anyone feel welcome. Known for his generous heart, he was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His kindness, selflessness, and genuine love for others left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Above all, Wayne dearly loved his family and friends, and above all, He loved His Lord. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a daughter, Shannon Renae Mallory; a brother, Lavern Mallory; brothers-in-law, Sonny Stinson, and Dennis Cole; sister-in-law, Geraldean Mallory
Leaving to cherish his memories are his daughter, Elizabeth “Libby” Mallory; sisters, Emily Mallory Stinson, Sandra Mallory Cole; brother, John Harvey Mallory (Joan); fiance’, Jackie Griggs; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins; several other loving family members and friends.
Serving as active pallbearers will be Ken Stinson, Wade Stinson, Patrick Mallory, Derek Mallory, Marty Cobb, Avery Beasley, and William Culpepper.
Honorary pallbearers will be the Deacons of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Midland City.
John Edward Heitzenrater, age 92, passed away on July 24, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama. He was born on March 26, 1934, in Pennsylvania and lived a life marked by steady service, deep faith, and a warm spirit that touched all who knew him.
John proudly served his country in the Army, carrying with him the values of duty, discipline, and loyalty throughout his life. After his military service, he devoted 35 years to working as a mail carrier in Albany, Georgia. In that role, he became a familiar and trusted presence in the community, faithfully delivering mail and friendship alike. His work reflected the kind of man be was, dependable, respectful, and committed to doing his part each day with care and integrity.
Those who knew John will remember him as a very sweet and humble Christian man. His faith was an important part of his life, and he lived in a way that reflected kindness, patience, and grace. He had a gift for conversation and loved to talk, often brightening the day of others with his friendly nature and easy manner. He had a way of making people feel comfortable and valued, and his presence was a comfort to family and friends throughout the years.
John is survived by his wife, Jane Heitzenrater; his daughters, Susie (Billy) Hope, Rosalind Jackson (Johnny) and nine stepchildren: his grandchildren, Kayla Garcia (Taylor) and Ryan Hope (Courtney); his step-grandchildren, Johnny Jackson II and Marco Jackson; and one brother Ronnie (Mary Kay) Heitzenrater. He also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory and the example he set through his life.
John’s family was one of the greatest joys of his life, and he treasured the time he spent with those he loved. He found happiness in simple moments, in conversation, in shared laughter, and in the everyday blessings of home and family. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him, and his memory will continue to bring comfort to all who loved him.
A life well lived is remembered not only for its years, but for the love, faith, and kindness it leaves behind. John Edward Heitzenrater will be remembered with deep affection and gratitude for the many ways he enriched the lives of others. His gentle spirit, steadfast character, and loving heart will not be forgotten.
A celebration of John’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 at Sunset Funeral Home with Rev. Thomas Harrison officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service at the funeral home. John will be laid to rest at Webb Baptist Church Cemetery.
Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com
OZARK…Mr. Jerry G. Andrews, a resident of Ozark, died early Friday morning, July 24, 2026, at his home. He was 76.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Tuesday, July 28, 2026, in the Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Brian Presley officiating. Burial will follow in Newton City Cemetery. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 P.M. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Mr. Andrews was born on August 1, 1949, and was a lifelong son of Southeast Alabama, having been raised in Midland City before making his home in Ozark in 1987. A man known for his strong work ethic, quiet strength, and devotion to his family, he spent more than thirty years employed with Rebwood Furniture Company in Headland before concluding his working career with King Church Furniture in Dothan. Through the years, he earned the respect of coworkers and friends alike for his dependability, kindness, and willingness to lend a helping hand whenever needed.
Outside of work, Mr. Andrews found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved spending time on the water fishing, where he could enjoy the peace and beauty of God’s creation. Following retirement, he and his beloved wife shared many treasured adventures together, traveling and creating memories that would remain close to their hearts. He was also a devoted fan of University of Alabama football and could often be found cheering on the Crimson Tide each season with enthusiasm and pride. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing softball and cherished the friendships and fellowship that came from being part of a team.
Above all, Mr. Andrews will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted family member, and loyal friend. His gentle spirit, steady presence, and caring nature touched the lives of many. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and love that will continue to be cherished by those who knew him. Though his family mourns his passing, they find comfort in the countless memories they shared and in the lasting impact he made on their lives.
Mr. Andrews was preceded in death by his grandparents, Bryant and Hettie Woodham Andrews; his father, Paul Andrews, and stepmother, Mae Robinson Andrews; and his nephew, Steve Andrews. Their memories, along with his own, will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved them.
Surviving relatives include his wife of fifty-seven years, Ann Whatley Andrews, Ozark; his children, Kim Beasley (Pete), Pinckard, Jason Andrews (Patsy), Lexington, Kentucky, and Christine Perrone, Cullman; grandchildren, Jesse Beasley (Wendie), Jolie Fields (Devin), Tyler Diaz, Paul Diaz, Logan Andrews, Megan Andrews, Austin Perrone, and Ethan Perrone (Kat); great-grandchildren, Aaron Beasley, Ashlyn Beasley Emersyn Fields, Violet Diaz, Dakota Perrone, Addilynn Perrone and one on the way, Loretta Perrone; brother, Douglas Andrews (Joann), Donalsonville, Georgia; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Cathy Ward, New Brockton, Lisa Lange, Bob Whatley (Mel), and Todd Whatley (Shelli), all of Ozark; nieces, nephews, and cousins.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
