Obituary from Holman Funeral Home of Ozark – Ozark, Alabama
Mr. Stanley Isaac “Stan” Matthews, a resident of Ozark, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Stan was 81 years old.
A memorial service for Mr. Matthews will be held 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at Trinity Methodist Church in Ozark with Reverend Marty Hamilton officiating, Holman Funeral Home of Ozark directing. Interment will follow in Westview Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends in the church Wednesday from 1:00 P.M. until service time.
Mr. Matthews was born July 17, 1944 in Ozark, Alabama to the late Alto Ray “Pat” Matthews and Johnnie Lynn Riley Matthews. Stan retired from the Army National Guard with the rank of Captain following twenty-two years of service. He began working with his parents with Matthews’ Dale Florist in 1963 and became owner in 1983. He received his Floral Design Education in Denver, Colorado. Stan was a Certified Master Designer with FTD, Director of the Southern Florists Association, Secretary of the FTD Association of Alabama, and Board Member of the Alabama State Floral Association. He taught designer courses at Auburn University and was a featured designer at several floral shows in the South. He loved to sketch images of flowers with charcoal, pencil, and watercolor. He was an avid collector of model trains and loved taking road trips to train yards, the mountains, and going fishing with his sons. He was also an avid Auburn fan. Stan and Lonnell are members of Trinity Methodist Church in Ozark. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Timothy Mark Matthews; the mother of his children, Connie Worthington Matthews; and his brother, Steve Riley Matthews. Survivors include his wife, Lonnell Butler Matthews of Ozark; son, Jeffery Scott Matthews (Julie) of Ozark; daughter, Rachel Matthews Carpenter (Darrell) of Midland City; daughter-in-law, Lysanne Wade Matthews of Lillburn, Georgia; grandchildren, Wesley Scott Matthews (Morgan) and Brookelyn Marie Matthews all of Ozark; and a special niece, Kathy Matthews Gassett (Ted) of North Carolina.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like memorials to be made in his memory to Trinity Methodist Church, 246 Church Avenue, Ozark, Alabama 36360.
Robert “Bob” Nelson, devoted husband, loving father, proud papa, brother, and friend, went home to be with his Savior on the morning of November 28, 2025, at the age of 73. Surrounded by his cherished family, Bob peacefully entered into eternal rest, completing his earthly journey with the same grace and faith that defined his life.
Bob was the devoted husband of Deborah “Debbie” Nelson for 49 beautiful years. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Johan and Bettie Nelson, and leaves behind a legacy of love and faith.
He is survived by his sister, Marsha White (Ed); his son, Ronald Nelson (Monica); and his daughter, Tracy Sawyer (John). Bob’s life was joyfully enriched by his grandchildren: Zack (Whitley), Rachel (Talgat), Press, Rebecca, Morgan, Barrett, Kristen, Josh, and Will-Hart. He also delighted in his great-grandchildren: Jules, Max, Luka, and Liam, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.
Bob was blessed with a circle of unwavering friendship, especially his friends, Cleveland and Jackie Pope, Ben and Shelia Shelley, and Eric and Candy Lawrence, who stood faithfully by his side throughout his journey.
Before his career of 35 years with Alabama Power as a nuclear serviceman, he served in the United States Army for 8 years. Bob was a faithful member of Harvest Church and he always helped the less fortunate when able within the church as well as through other volunteer organizations.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers of Dayspring Hospice, whose support and kindness brought comfort during Bob’s final days.
A private celebration of Bob’s life will be held at a later date.
Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in the knowledge that Bob is now in the presence of his Savior, and the beautiful legacy he leaves behind will live on in all who were blessed to know and love his.
MIDLAND CITY. . .Billy Ray Raley, a resident of Midland City, passed away Wednesday afternoon, November 26, 2025, in Westside Terrace in Dothan. He was 91.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, November 29, 2025, in the Holman-Headland Mortuary Chapel with Pastor Benny Lindsey officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 A.M. Saturday at the mortuary in Headland. A private burial will be Monday, December 1, 2025, in Gardens of Memory, between Headland & Dothan.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Zion Assembly of God, 1078 County Road 112, Midland City, AL 36350.
Mr. Raley was born in Henry County and was raised in Midland City, son of the late Homer Raley and Inez Paramore Raley. He was a graduate of Midland City High School and received a Bachelors Degree in Applied Science from Troy University-Dothan. Mr. Raley served his country in the U. S. Air Force during the Korean War era. He was retired from U. S. Civil Service as an Aviation Inspector at Fort Rucker. Mr. Raley was an active member of Mt. Zion Assembly of God where he served as a Deacon and Treasurer and participated in most church activities and served on many committees. He formerly served as Director of the Midland City Housing Authority and served as a Dixie Youth Baseball Coach in Midland City.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Anne Roberson Raley; a daughter, Angie Raley Brackin, Midland City; two sons, Mark Raley (Tammi), Dothan; and Joel Raley (Paula), Dothan; two brothers, Wayne Raley (Teresa), Hurtsboro, AL; and Doug Raley (Sealia), Napier Field; grandchildren, Kaitlin Moulton (Jay), Alec Raley, Aiden Raley, Ashton Brackin and Madison Ward (Kendall); great-grandchildren, Raley Moulton, Luna Williams and Maris Ward.
HOLMAN-HEADLAND MORTUARY & CREMATIONS IS IN CHARGE OF ARRANGEMENTS. Phone 334-693-3371. You may sign a guest register at www.holmanmortuaries.com. This establishment does not own a crematory.
With hearts overflowing with love, pride, and deep gratitude for a life so beautifully and faithfully lived, the family of Jim King announces his peaceful passing on November 26, 2025. To know Jim was to know kindness itself. He was a devoted companion, a proud father, a loving grandfather and great-grandfather, a loyal friend, and a man whose unwavering faith steadied him through every season of life. Jim touched countless lives with his warmth, generosity, and unmistakable laughter. Though no longer seen, his presence remains everlasting in the hearts of all who loved him. He lived by a simple truth he shared often and lived always: “Do good and good will follow; do bad and you will be sad.” Those words became a guiding light for generations — not only for his family, but for everyone blessed by his example.
Born on August 21, 1946, Jim grew up with the values that would shape both his character and his legacy: hard work, honesty, humility, and compassion. As a young boy, he worked alongside his parents and siblings farming, where he came to understand the meaning of effort and integrity — lessons reinforced by his mother’s steady encouragement: “Come on kids, the harder we work, the more we will have.” These simple truths became the foundation of his life. Through the years, he worked in road construction, at the cotton mill, and at Reliable Sheet Metal before building a successful trucking business of his own. Every mile of that journey reflected his determination, grit, and unshakable work ethic. When that chapter closed, he continued his lifelong commitment to service as a Holmes County Commissioner, fulfilling his duties with fairness, integrity, and a genuine heart for the people he represented. Whether sitting in a meeting room or leaning against a porch railing swapping stories, Jim treated everyone with the same respect. He truly never met a stranger.
In retirement, Jim embraced his greatest joy — his family. His beloved lady friend, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the treasures of his heart and the reason he greeted each day with purpose. His happiest moments were often the simplest ones: cheering from the bleachers at every game, spending quiet mornings with a fishing pole along the Choctawhatchee River or sculling across his favorite lakes, walking the woods on crisp hunting mornings, or searching for the perfect Christmas tree with his children. The outdoors was his sanctuary — the place he felt closest to God — and sharing those moments with the people he loved made them sacred.
Jim had a rare and beautiful gift: the ability to make people feel truly seen, valued, and loved. He was the first to lend a hand, the first to encourage, and the last to ever ask for anything in return. His heart was big enough for everyone who crossed his path. He carried a calming presence that could steady even the hardest moments, and a laugh that could brighten the darkest ones. He found comfort in gospel music and the familiar hymns that echoed his steadfast faith — a faith he lived not loudly, but quietly and consistently, through the kindness he showed others.
Those who knew Jim will forever remember his gentle spirit, his good humor, and the simple yet powerful truths by which he lived: work hard, love deeply, and always help when you can. He was deeply proud of the life he built and the family he raised, and his love will continue to guide them — and future generations — long after his earthly journey has ended.
Jim’s life was a profound blessing to all who knew him. Though his passing leaves an ache that words cannot fully mend, there is comfort in knowing he is home — at peace, wrapped in the eternal love of his Savior, and joyfully reunited with those who went before him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Vassie Justice King; his brothers Bob King, Ronnie King, and Dan King; his sisters Evangeline Elrod and Shirley King; his precious great-granddaughters Hayden and Harper, who surely ran to greet their Papa with open arms in Heaven; and David Hanes.
He is survived by his three children, Malisa Yates (Richard), Michelle Harris (Shawn), and Jimmy King (Bryan); his loving lady friend of 33 years Evie Hanes and her daughter Michelle Hudson (Kevin); ten grandchildren — Tyla Yates, Tiffany Harris, Ryan Yates (Shelby), Sha-Lea Yates (John), Mahalie Harris, Timra Miller (Josh), Zachary Hudson (Taylor), Addison Hudson (Eden), Ethan Young, and Brent Young; fourteen great-grandchildren — Brayden Yates, Logan Yates, Ryleigh Yates, Brantley Harris, Braxston Turner, Korbyn King, Kingsley Yates, Barrett Turner, Kollin King, Maisyn Yates, Weston Yates, Hadley Miller, Leyton Miller, and Briella Miller; one sister, Sybil Jenkins; Sister-In-Law Gail King, and a host of special nieces and nephews; along with a other extended family and countless friends who will forever carry the imprint of his love in their hearts.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025 at Bethleham Baptist Church with Reverened Dr. Wesley Adams and Clint Erickson officiating. Interment will follow in the East Pittman Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery with Warren Holloway Ward Funeral Home of Geneva, AL directing. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday, November 28, 2025 from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m.
Although Jim’s life was not always easy, and at times he felt he was pushing against the current, he will be remembered for his laughter, his unwavering work ethic, and his boundless, unconditional love. He had a gift for making every person feel like they mattered — because to him, they truly did. His was a life well-lived, deeply loved, and beautifully shared. The world feels a little quieter without him, but Heaven is surely brighter because he is there.
Serving as pallbeares will be: Steve Paulk, Rodney Pope, Marty Majors, Clay Mitchell, Dean Sconiers, and Brandon Elrod.
Serving as honary pallbearers will be: Ryan Yates, Zachary Hudson, Addison Husdon, Ethan Young, Brent Young, Brayden Yates, Logan Yates, Brantley Harris, Braxston Turner, Korbyn King, Barrett Turner, Kollin King, Leyton Miller, and Weston Yates.
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
NEWTON…Mr. David T. “D.D.” Bodiford, a resident of Newton, died early Tuesday evening, November 25, 2025, at his home. He was 73.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Sunday, November 30, 2025, in the Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Mike Griggs 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. Sunday at the funeral home.
Mr. Bodiford was born on October 12, 1952, in the small town of Red Level, Alabama, where he began a life that would be marked by hard work, devotion, and love for his family. He grew up with strong values and a determination to succeed, graduating in 1970 from Walton County High School in Defuniak Springs, Florida. His love for learning and his natural curiosity led him to the University of Florida in Gainesville, where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering—a field that allowed him to use both his sharp mind and his problem-solving skills.
In 1983, his life took its most meaningful turn when he married the love of his life, Nell. Together, they built a home in Newton, Alabama, where they shared not only years, but countless memories filled with laughter, faith, and the everyday joys of life. Their marriage was a true partnership, one that reflected deep love, respect, and commitment.
Throughout his career, Mr. Bodiford worked with GTE and SONY Corporation before retiring from General Electric Motors in Dothan. He was known for his strong work ethic and his ability to approach challenges with patience and determination. His colleagues respected him not only for his knowledge but also for his kindness and willingness to lend a hand.
Outside of work, Mr. Bodiford was a man of faith. He attended Bethel Baptist Church in Newton, where he found fellowship and strength. His faith was not just something he practiced on Sundays—it was woven into his daily life, guiding the way he treated others and the way he lived with gratitude and humility.
Family was always at the center of his world. He cherished his role as a husband, father, and grandfather, and those who knew him best will remember the way his face lit up when he was surrounded by loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents, Litton and Mary Bodiford, his son-in-law, Larry Burcham, and his brother-in-law, Dr. Lynn Mayfield, DDS, losses that weighed heavily on his heart but never diminished the love he carried for his family.
Mr. Bodiford will be remembered as a man who lived with integrity, who loved deeply, and who left behind a legacy of faith, family, and hard work. His story is not just about the places he lived or the jobs he held, but about the countless lives he touched with his gentle spirit and steady presence.
Surviving relatives include his wife of forty-three years, Nell Bodiford; daughter, Paula Burcham, both of Newton; son, Pete Beasley (Kimberly), Midland City; sister, Ellen Mayfield, Defuniak Springs, Florida; four grandchildren, Misty Cherry (Mike), Kristy Barefield (Patrick), Jesse Beasley (Wendie), and Jolie Beasley (Devin Fields); five great-grandchildren, Madelyn Cherry (Drake Newman), Reese Barefield, Aaron Beasley, Ashlyn Beasley, and Emersyn Fields; several nieces and nephews including, Mary Chris Murray and Earl Elmore; his best friend, Randall Shirah.
Serving as active pallbearers will be Mike Cherry, Patrick Barefield, Jesse Beasley, Aaron Beasley, Drake Newman, Devin Fields, and David Mosely.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
Ashton Taylor Jacobs, affectionately known as Taylor Made to all who adored her, graced this world with her vibrant spirit on July 13, 2004, in Dothan, Alabama. Her journey on earth came to an end on November 23, 2025. Taylor’s infectious laughter and warm presence were a gift to those who knew her, leaving an indelible mark on every heart she touched.
Taylor was the cherished daughter of Alicia and Doug Jacobs and the loving sister to Hunter Jacobs. Her role as a devoted mother to her beloved son, Easton Rhodes, was one she embraced with her whole heart. Taylor’s unwavering bond with her best friend, Haley Shelley, was a testament to the depth of her loyalty and affection. Her family was her sanctuary, and the laughter-filled moments they shared were the essence of her joy.
A proud graduate of Cottonwood High School, Taylor’s academic journey was marked by her enthusiastic participation in the Future Farmers of America (FFA), where her passion for agriculture shone brightly. She took great pride in showing cattle at the National Peanut Festival, an activity that not only showcased her dedication but also her connection to the community and its traditions.
Taylor’s professional life was characterized by her compassionate nature, as she worked as a private sitter. She approached her work with the same love and care that she devoted to every aspect of her life, ensuring that those in her charge felt comforted and valued.
To say that Taylor was full of life would be an understatement. Her personality was a blend of sweetness and exuberance, and her ability to light up any room was unparalleled. Her humor was a source of endless entertainment, and her love of a good time was contagious. Taylor’s outgoing nature meant she never met a stranger, and her friendly demeanor ensured that friendships came easily and lasted a lifetime.
Taylor’s interests extended beyond her work and her love for agriculture. She was a beacon of joy within her family, cherishing every moment spent with her loved ones. Her zest for life was evident in everything she did, and her outgoing nature made every gathering a memorable one.
The words that best describe Taylor are loving, funny, and friendly. She was a soul who gave love freely and laughed heartily. Her friendly spirit made her an unforgettable presence in the lives of all who knew her. Taylor’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and friendship a legacy that will continue to inspire and comfort those she has left behind.
As we bid farewell to Ashton Taylor Jacobs, we celebrate the time we were privileged to share with her. Her memory will be cherished, her stories retold with smiles, and her spirit will continue to guide us. Taylor’s journey was a beautiful one, marked by the love she gave and the joy she brought into this world. She will be profoundly missed, but the light she emanated will never dim in the hearts of those who loved her.
A graveside service will be held at 10am on Monday, December 1, 2025 in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery.
