Gwendolyn Iona Smith Eaton, a resident of Eufaula, Alabama, passed away Friday, January 2, 2026, at her daughter’s home in Eclectic, Alabama. She was 75 years old.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the Glover Funeral Home Chapel in Eufaula with Chaplain Stacy Austin officiating. The burial will be held at Parkhill Cemetery in Columbus, Georgia, at 1:00 p.m. CST. A visitation will be held from 9:00-9:45 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
Gwen was born on March 6, 1950, to the late Rev. Robert Lee and Nancy Elizabeth Dixon Smith. She spent all her life serving the Lord and enjoyed going to church and reading her Bible. Gwen loved her family and friends and as her health declined, she enjoyed being able to talk on the phone with them. Gwen was of the Pentecostal faith.
She is preceded in death by her parents; son, Tim Eaton; sister, Nancy Hartin; two brothers, Robert “Buddy” Smith and Kenneth Smith; loving partner, Larry Sawyer.
Left to cherish her memories are her three daughters, Kimberly Kaye Wilson (Pete), Sherry Elizabeth Hooks (Tony), and April Gwendolyn Adkison (Nick); sister, Marcia Robinson; eight grandchildren, Kelly Carter, Timothy Phillips, Dylan Tyler, Ashlee Tyler, Jayleigh Adkison, Carley Adkison, Faith Adkison, and CJ Adkison; nine great-grandchildren; several beloved nieces and nephews.
Asked to serve as pallbearers are Tim Kilpatrick, Tony Hooks, Dylan Tyler, Hunter Carter, Joshua Hartin, and Demetrius Hooks.
Honorary pallbearer will be Timothy Phillips.
The family would like to express their love and gratitude to Ivy Creek Hospice for the wonderful care they provided Gwen during her time of need.
Glover Funeral Home of Eufaula was entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 687-5725. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com
Thomas Richard Hagerty, a fiercely independent spirit with an unshakable work ethic and deep respect for family, honor, and tradition, passed away on December 23, 2025, at the age of 74.
Born on January 4, 1951, Thomas lived life on his own terms—strong-willed, resilient, and adaptable, even as the world around him changed rapidly. Loyalty meant everything to him, and once earned, it was given without reservation. A proud “momma’s boy” who could do no wrong in her eyes, Thomas carried that love and confidence with him throughout his life.
An entrepreneur at heart, Thomas believed in betting on himself—and winning. Whether owning and operating Be Back Motors, his used motorcycle parts shop, or Juggs Bar, he poured himself into every venture. His passion for engines and speed was undeniable, from Drag racing circle dirt track racing to driving fast in his beloved sports car. He spent time working with the Milwaukee Chicago Railroad and was never far from grease, gears, or the thrill of motion.
Thomas was a proud combat veteran of the United States Army, serving as a decorated officer and rifle marksman during the Vietnam War. His service was formally honored through the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017, which designated March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day—recognizing veterans like Thomas who answered the call to serve. The Act was signed into law by President Donald J. Trump on March 28, 2017, coinciding with the 33rd birthday of his only son, Richard Thomas Hagerty.
A single parent, Thomas was deeply devoted to his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his son, Richard Thomas Hagerty, and his cherished grandchildren, Taylor (22), Carter (15), and Luca (8), who were the pride of his life.
Outside of work and family, Thomas found joy in life’s simple and bold pleasures—candy (lots of it), his cats, the warmth of the sun, and the serenity of the ocean, especially at Anna Maria Island. He was a devoted Green Bay Packers fan, a lover of America, and had a lifelong appreciation for music, especially Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Free Bird and Simple Man . Racing legends like Dale Earnhardt Sr. (#3) and Dale Earnhardt Jr. (#8) were heroes in his eyes, and the number 69 held special meaning to him.
His favorite gemstone was the blue star sapphire—fitting for a man whose life reflected strength, depth, and brilliance.
Thomas lived boldly, loved fiercely, and left nothing undone. He will be remembered as a soldier, a businessman, a racer, a father, a grandfather, and a patriot—one who lived fast, worked hard, and stayed true to who he was.
His legacy lives on in the lives he shaped, the stories he leaves behind, and the unmistakable mark he made on this world.
Mary Lou Woods, of Ashford, Alabama, passed away leaving behind a legacy woven with love, family, and devotion. She was born on November 16, 1944, in Greenhead, Florida, to the late Daniel and Leila Adell Clark. One of eleven children, Mary Lou was raised in Panama City, Florida, where she grew up surrounded by the strength and closeness of a large, loving family.
It was in Panama City that Mary Lou met the love of her life, Jeff Earnest Woods Sr. Together they shared 46 years of marriage, building a home rooted in faithfulness, laughter, and deep family bonds. Their life together was marked by enduring love and unwavering commitment to one another and to their children.
Mary Lou had a special gift for creating beauty with her hands. She lovingly hand-sewed quilts for those she cherished, each stitch a reflection of her care, patience, and generous heart. These quilts became treasured keepsakes—lasting symbols of her warmth and the love she so freely gave.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Jeff Earnest Woods Sr.; her daughter, Hellen Woods; her grandson, Daniel Wilkes; her daughter-in-law, Malisa Woods; and several brothers and sisters.
Mary Lou is survived by her children, Molly Abbott (James Sr.), Jeff E. Woods Jr., and Anna Woods (Sonny); and her son-in-law, Jerry Woods.
She also leaves behind a large and loving family of grandchildren: Robert Wilkes Jr.; Brandy Hires (Mike); James Abbott Jr.; Charles Abbott; Joseph Abbott; Andrew Abbott; Christopher Young (Virginia); Meagan Locklar; Jeff M. Woods; Emma Rocha (Greg); Mary Elizabeth Wiggins (Aaron); Christopher Woods (Maiah); and Tessa Woods.
Her legacy continues through her cherished great-grandchildren: Taylor Thaxton; Chloe, Mason, and John Hires; Abigail, Grace, and Wyatt Wiggins; Maverick, Octavia, and Lucia Rocha; Cailyn and Camila Young; and Leonardo Meola, as well as a god great granddaughter.
Mary Lou’s greatest joy was her family, and her life was a testament to love given freely and faithfully. Her kindness, strength, and the love she stitched into every quilt will be remembered always by all who were blessed to know her.
A celebration of Mary Lou’s life will be held on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 10am in the Sunset Memorial Park Chapel with burial to follow in Antioch Baptist Church Cemetery.
Carol Leigh McAbee, a beacon of warmth and affection to all who knew her, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama. Born on March 13, 1974, in the rolling hills of Kentucky, Carol’s journey through life was marked by an unwavering dedication to her family, a passion for simple pleasures, and a heart brimming with kindness.
Carol’s life was a testament to love and commitment, beautifully exemplified by her 20-year marriage to her beloved husband, Robert McAbee. Carol nurtured a family that was her pride and joy. Her legacy lives on through her son, Robert Alex McAbee, and her daughter, Keri Lynn Davis, as well as her precious grandchildren, Scarlett Deese and Evilynn Rose Chandler. Carol’s nurturing spirit was also a source of comfort to her mother, Debra Banfield, her sister, Stacy Banfield and a host of other family members, who will deeply miss her guiding light. She was preceded in death by her father, Larry Banfield, her son, Kenny Ray Davis, and her brother, Robert Banfield, who each held a special place in her heart.
Carol’s early education in Kentucky laid the foundation for a life characterized by hard work and perseverance. Her professional journey was highlighted by over eight years of dedicated service at Professional Wiregrass Communications, where she was a valued member of the messaging center team. Her colleagues will remember her as a friend who could always be counted on for support and a smile.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Carol’s personal interests painted a picture of a woman who cherished the simple joys of life. She had an infectious enthusiasm for going to yard sales and thrift stores, delighting in the thrill of discovering hidden treasures. Her collection of frogs was not just a hobby but a reflection of her playful and curious nature.
Carol’s love for her family was the cornerstone of her existence. She poured her heart into every moment spent with her grandchildren, and her love for them was as boundless as the sky. Her friends and family will forever remember her as the epitome of friendliness, love, and kindness—a woman whose laughter and warmth lit up any room.
As we bid farewell to Carol Leigh McAbee, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a spirit that will continue to inspire. Her memory will be cherished in the hearts of those she touched, and her light will continue to guide us, just as the stars guide travelers through the night. Carol’s journey on earth may have concluded, but her spirit remains an indelible part of the tapestry of our lives.
Mr. Joseph Edward Anthony, Jr. went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, December 12, 2025 at Flowers Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was 84.
A Celebration of Joes’ home going will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at First Baptist Church of Slocomb with Reverend Brad Price and Robert Letson officiating and Sorrells Funeral Home of Slocomb directing. To honor Joe, the family invites everyone to wear orange and blue for his celebration of life.
The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to service time.
Mr. Anthony was born March 18, 1941 in Riverview, Alabama to the late Edward and Lottie Mae Anthony. He was a graduate of Shorter High School. He was employed with the Alabama Department of Transportation for 38 years and also served his country in the Army National Guard. Joe and Cheryl had a heart for children and were foster parents for about 10 years. Joe served on the board of the Alabama Adoptive Parent Association for several years, was a deacon at First Baptist Church of Slocomb, as well as New Life Baptist Church in Bay Minette, AL and enjoyed singing in the church choir. Joe could be found every Saturday, August through January, from 11:00 am until 11:00 pm, sitting in his recliner enjoying SEC football games. He enjoyed all SEC football games but specifically cheering on the Auburn Tigers-War Eagle! Joe had an unwavering love for his family but most of all for his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
In addition to his parents; James L. Perry, of Shorter; grandparents: Emory and Elizabeth Baker, Lonnie and Gussie Anthony; and special cousin, Richard Baker (Betty Ann) all of Valley preceded him in death.
Joe leaves behind a loving family including his wife, Cheryl Cain Anthony; four daughters: Emmie Anthony, Brianna Anthony, Alisa Coggins, and Renee Bryars-Garrette; son, Michael Kaiser (Teresa); Several grandchildren and great- grandchildren; sisters: Sandra Letson (Bob), Beverly Bass (Mark), and Annette Cox; brothers: Ray Anthony, Emory Perry (Sherry), and Jimmy L. Perry; special friend, Jeremiah Casteel and numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family.
The family would like to thank the caregivers from Day Spring Hospice and the caring staff at Flowers Hospital for the love and care that was shown to Joe.
Joseph Oscar Turner, Jr., known to family and friends as Joey, passed away on December 31, 2025, at the age of 46. He was born on January 18, 1979, in Troy, Alabama.
Joey was preceded in death by his parents, Beverly Turner and Joseph Oscar Turner, Sr. The values they instilled in him—hard work, kindness, and dependability—remained evident throughout his life. Joey was also preceded in death by his sister, Kimberly Turner Hawkins and his aunt, Peggy Haddan.
He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Sabrina Turner; his stepdaughters, Sarah and Mary McBride; his aunt Glenda Varga (Steve); his uncles, Roger Haddan (Nancy), James Turner, Robert Haddan and Jeff Haddan (Teresa); his mother-in-law, Linda Watson; his father-in-law, Jerry Watson (Missy); along with several cousins, extended family members, and many friends.
For over 20 years, Joey worked as a truck driver with Wiley Sanders Trucking. He took pride in his work and was known as a reliable and dedicated employee who valued responsibility and commitment.
Outside of work, Joey enjoyed nature, animals, and traveling. He appreciated the open road and the quiet moments found outdoors. He was always willing to help others and was known for his steady presence and generous spirit.
Joey will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his loyalty to those he loved, and his willingness to lend a hand whenever needed. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A gathering to celebrate Joey’s life will be held from 6:00 pm to 7:00pm on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at Sunset Funeral Home. Family and friends are invited to come together, share memories, and honor his life.
Gwendolyn Iona Smith Eaton, a resident of Eufaula, Alabama, passed away Friday, January 2, 2026, at her daughter’s home in Eclectic, Alabama. She was 75 years old.
