ARITON…Mr. Thomas Martin “Marty” Robinson, a resident of Ariton, died Monday afternoon, December 8, 2025, at Dale Medical Center. He was 49.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, December 12, 2025, in Universalist Cemetery, Ariton, with Pastor Matt Sasser officiating. The family will receive friends following the graveside service. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Robinson was a proud native of Ariton, where he grew up surrounded by family, friends, and the close-knit community that shaped his life. He graduated from Ariton High School in 1995 and went on to continue his education at Trenholm State Technical College in Montgomery. His hard work and determination carried him into a career as an over-the-road truck driver, where he spent several years traveling across states, seeing new places, and building stories along the way. Driving trucks wasn’t just a job for him—it was a way to provide for his family and to take pride in honest, steady work.
He had a deep love for Auburn University football, cheering on the Tigers with passion and loyalty. Saturdays in the fall were special to him, filled with excitement, team spirit, and the joy of watching his favorite team play. Beyond football, Mr. Robinson had a curious mind and a knack for electronics. He enjoyed tinkering, learning, and figuring out how things worked. In his younger years, he also found peace and enjoyment in fishing, spending quiet time by the water with a rod in hand, appreciating the simple beauty of nature.
One of the greatest joys of his life was his faithful dog, “Block.” More than just a pet, Block was his constant companion, offering unconditional love and comfort. Their bond was strong, and Block brought him happiness and companionship through the ups and downs of life.
Mr. Robinson’s life was also marked by the love of family. He carried with him the memory of those who went before him, including his father, George Robinson; his paternal grandparents, Thomas Robinson and Annie Lee Winstead; and his maternal grandmother, Annie B. Bishop. Though their absence was felt deeply, their influence and love remained a guiding presence in his life.
Surviving relatives include his daughter, Katherine Margaret Robinson, Eufaula; mother, Doris Bishop Robinson; sister, Miranda Phillips (William), all of Ariton; two nephews, Joel McMillon and Jake McMillon.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
Juanita Cawley Ogburn, a cherished matriarch, and beacon of love and resilience, passed away peacefully on December 8, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 89. Born in Samson on September 6, 1936, Juanita’s life was a testament to her unwavering spirit and the deep love she held for her family and God.
Juanita’s journey began as the heart of a bustling family. She was the beloved wife of the late William Ogburn, Sr., to whom she was married for 53 years until his passing in 2010. Together, they built a life rich in love and laughter. Her legacy continues through her devoted son, Bill Ogburn (his special friend, Deborah Clark); her loving daughters, Sheila Rizzi (Glenn) and Leisha Ward (David); and her adored grandchildren, Dillon Ward (Danielle), Dustin Ward (Brooke), Jenna Justice (Brent), Hanna Rizzi (Jacob), and Emma Ross (Tanner). Juanita was also a proud great-grandmother to Maddie Kate, Julia Mae, Barrett, Addy, Dakota, Daxon, Ivey, Demi, and Deacon. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Kathleen Vinson, Mary Donaldson, Ralph Cawley, Barbara Johnson, Jack Cawley, and Johnny Cawley, whose memories she held close to her heart.
A graduate of Samson High School, Juanita’s nurturing nature led her to open her home as a daycare provider for over 30 years. She was a cornerstone to many families, providing love and care to the children who passed through her doors. Before dedicating herself to childcare, Juanita worked diligently for 18 years at Alatex, where her strong work ethic and kind demeanor were greatly appreciated by all who worked alongside her.
Juanita’s passion for life was evident in her many interests. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she devoted herself to their happiness and well-being. A lover of beauty, she spent countless hours tending to her flowers, creating a vibrant tapestry in her garden that reflected the love she poured into every bloom. Her culinary skills were unmatched, with her southern cooking bringing comfort and joy to all who were fortunate enough to sit at her table.
Known for her sensitive nature in her younger years, Juanita’s feisty spirit emerged as she grew older, a trait that endeared her to many. Her deep faith was a guiding force in her life, and she was a dedicated member of Abundant Life Church, where she worshipped and found great solace in the teachings of the Lord. Reading, jigsaw puzzles, and word games were sources of pleasure and reflection for Juanita, providing her with many hours of enjoyment and a sharp mind. Among her sweet personal joys later in life was being crowned Miss Westside Terrace, a special honor from the nursing home that celebrated her warmth, charm, and spirited personality.
The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the caretakers at Westside Terrace and Gentiva for their compassionate care and support during Juanita’s final years. Their kindness and dedication were a source of great comfort to her and her loved ones.
A celebration of Juanita’s life will be held at 2:00pm on Friday, December 12, 2025 at Sunset Funeral Home with Rev. Jeff Noles officiating. Juanita will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time.
Obituary from Holman Funeral Home of Ozark – Ozark, Alabama
Thomas Wayne “Tom” Bollin, of Ozark, Alabama, passed away peacefully in his sleep on November 16, 2025, at Oakview Manor Nursing Center in Ozark, following a long struggle with cirrhosis of the liver and cardiovascular disease. He was 82. Service arrangements will be shared by the family. Condolences may be expressed at www.HolmanFuneralHome.com (Holman Funeral Home of Ozark)
Tom was born on April 21, 1943, in Cordell, Oklahoma, to Jack Foster Bollin and Viola Mae (Flaming) Bollin. The son of an Army Sergeant First Class, he spent his childhood in Augsburg and Munich, Germany, as well as Olympia, Washington, and Clinton, Oklahoma, attending Department of Defense (DOD) schools during his parents’ time stationed overseas. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy from November 11, 1960, to March 11, 1964. After boot camp at the Naval Training Center in San Diego, he served as a deck hand on an oiler that sailed the waters of South and East Asia, with time in ports including Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore, and the Philippines. He loved telling stories about life on the sea and on shore. Tom earned his GED and later completed an Associate of Science at Enterprise State Junior College in Enterprise, Alabama, on June 2, 1976. Throughout his life he worked in a wide range of roles, most notably in sales—including cars, jewelry, Avon, insurance, mobile homes, sheds, and RVs. He also served as a bank manager and worked for the Social Security Administration. A lifelong sports lover, he enjoyed playing golf, tennis, and baseball, and enjoyed watching them on TV even more. Tom was married to Erma Jean (Esterly) Bollin on October 4, 1989, in Enterprise, Alabama. They remained together until her passing on November 7, 2017. He was preceded in death by his parents and by his wife, Erma Jean. He is survived by his sister, Patti Bollin Eisenbarth; his son, Eric Scott Bollin; and his daughter, Trisha Wynn Bollin; and his grandchildren Olivia D’Anne Bollin, Rosalynn Josephine Bollin, and Lucas Samuel Bollin.
ELAMVILLE…Mrs. Mildred Evans McLendon, a resident of Elamville, died Monday morning, December 8, 2025, at her home. She was 87.
Graveside services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at Salem Baptist Church with Reverend Kenneth Earles officiating. The family will receive friends following the graveside service. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.
Mrs. McLendon, the beloved daughter of the late Clemit Evans and Willie Gladys Shehane, was a proud native and lifelong resident of Barbour County. She spent her entire life rooted in the community she loved, surrounded by family, friends, and neighbors who knew her well. For many years, she worked with Van Heusen and later Dowling Manufacturing in Clio, where she used her skills as a seamstress to create garments with care and precision. Her hands were steady, her work ethic strong, and she took pride in contributing to something that touched the lives of so many.
Faith was always at the center of Mrs. McLendon’s life. She was a devoted member of Elamville Assembly of God Church, where she found joy in worship, fellowship, and service. Her church family was dear to her, and she carried her faith into her everyday life, offering kindness, encouragement, and a listening ear to those around her.
Family meant everything to her. She cherished her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and her home was often filled with laughter, stories, and the smell of good food cooking in the kitchen. She had a way of making everyone feel welcome, whether it was through a warm smile, a gentle word, or simply her presence.
Though her life was full of love and blessings, she also knew sorrow. She was preceded in death by her grandson, Trent McLendon, whose memory she carried tenderly in her heart. Even in grief, she leaned on her faith and her family, showing strength and grace that inspired those around her.
Mrs. McLendon’s legacy is one of love, faith, and devotion. She will be remembered not only for the work of her hands, but for the warmth of her heart and the way she touched the lives of everyone who knew her.
Surviving relatives include her husband of seventy-years, Macon Eugene McLendon, Elamville; three daughters, Vivian Hagler and her husband, Harold Hagler (Sergeant First Class, United States Army, Retired), Ariton, Jeannie Parrish and her husband, Bobby, New Brockton, and Beth McConvery, Enterprise; her son, Richard McLendon and his wife, Susie, Virginia; sister, Mary Nell Wright, Wicksburg; brother, Carl Phillips (Jan), Ariton; grandchildren; Brian Hagler (Lacey), Derrick Hagler, Jeremy Hagler (Bobbi), Laura Hagler, Brett Parrish, Ben Parrish, Jessica Parrish, Taylor McConvery (Hannah), Tanner McConvery (Meg), Hannah McGuire (Heath), Lily Long (Trent), Braxon McLendon, and Derek Wyrick (Darlyn); twenty three great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Serving as active pallbearers will be her grandsons.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
Dennis Alfred Nagel passed away peacefully on December 3, 2025, at Ben Atchley State Veteran’s Home in Knoxville, Tennessee. Born on December 26, 1955, in Highland Park, Michigan, Dennis’s journey through life was marked by an unwavering love for his family, and commitment to his country.
Dennis’s early life in Michigan was just the beginning of an adventure that would take him to many places, but his heart remained ever true to his roots; and fittingly, he left this world
with an Alabama hat at his bedside.
The great love of Dennis’s life was his beloved wife, Sally Nagel. Their 35-year marriage was a testament to the power of love, companionship, and mutual respect. Dennis and Sally’s life together was a tapestry woven with joyous moments and loving memories. Their years together were filled with joy, partnership, and a deep affection that shaped the very best chapters of his life. After her passing, Dennis carried her memory, and those who loved him
recalled his curmudgeon ways wrapped around a heart that remained soft for her. Their reunion on Wednesday has surely been a moment of profound joy and peace for Dennis.
Dennis’s military career was nothing short of illustrious. Having retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 3 (CW3) Army Pilot, he began his service as an Army infantryman, where he distinguished himself by achieving the elite status of master parachutist. His dedication to serving his country was matched by his commitment to excellence in every endeavor.
Beyond his military achievements, Dennis found joy in life’s simpler aspects. His hobbies included forging, woodworking, camping, and gardening—each an expression of his love for creation and his desire to work with his hands. Those who knew him will remember the meticulous care he took with every project and the pride he felt in sharing his creations with those he loved.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter in his daughter, Diana Nagel Goad, and her husband, Brian Goad; his son, Michael Nagel; his adored grandchildren, Tarin and Hailey Goad, and his grandson-in-law, Devon Malabey. Dennis’s joy was multiplied when he witnessed the births of his grandchildren, and his pride in their accomplishments knew no bounds.
Dennis is also survived by a close-knit family including his sisters and brothers-in-law, Rhea & Brad Grubbs, Dena & Mark Miller, and Ralph, Mary & Steve Kline. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial contributions in memory of Dennis to be made to the Dale County Humane Society, https://www.odchs.org/ .
