Obituary from Holman Funeral Home of Ozark – Ozark, Alabama
CW3 John Ray Kennamore, Sr. (United States Army, Retired), a resident of Dothan and formerly of Ozark, died Wednesday, January 21, 2026, in Flowers Hospital. He was 88 years old. Funeral services for CW3 Kennamore will be 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, January 28, 2026, in the Chapel of Holman Funeral Home in Ozark with Reverend Jason Johnson officiating. Entombment will follow in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery with Full Military Honors, Holman Funeral Home of Ozark directing. The family will receive friends at the funeral home in Ozark Wednesday from 9:30 A.M. until service time.
John Ray Kennamore, a devoted husband, decorated United States Army veteran, aviation safety pioneer, and lifelong public servant, passed away after a life defined by perseverance, courage, and unwavering service to others. Born on May 27, 1937, in Birmingham, Alabama, Ray’s early years were shaped by profound hardship. Raised by his widowed grandmother in extreme poverty—often without electricity, plumbing, or a permanent home—he learned resilience, humility, and self-reliance at a young age. Those early struggles forged the quiet strength, determination, and work ethic that would guide him throughout his life. At just 18 years old, Ray enlisted in the United States Army on January 3, 1956, beginning a distinguished military career that spanned more than two decades. While stationed in Germany, he met the love of his life, Christel Becher, and they were married on April 1, 1958. Their marriage became his constant anchor through years of deployments, danger, and sacrifice. Ray served his country in some of its most critical moments, including duty in Beirut, Lebanon; Berlin during the Berlin Crisis; and two combat tours in Vietnam. As an Army aviator and warrant officer, he flew rotary-wing aircraft in combat and later served in leadership roles as Operations Officer, Safety Officer, and Instructor Pilot. He was awarded the Purple Heart after being wounded in a rocket and mortar attack in Vietnam—an attack that tragically claimed the life of a fellow pilot and close friend. Beyond the battlefield, Ray left an enduring legacy in military aviation safety. While assigned to the U.S. Army Safety Center, he helped pioneer groundbreaking human-factors research that transformed how aviation accidents are investigated. His work reshaped safety practices across all branches of the military and influenced national aviation safety standards, saving countless lives in the decades that followed. After retiring from active duty in 1976, Ray continued to serve others through civilian roles. He worked in law enforcement with the Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control Board, instructed future Army aviators, and later served as a GS-13 Aviation Safety Officer with the U.S. Army Safety Center until 2004. Ray often spoke with gratitude about how the military changed his life—taking a boy from desperate circumstances and giving him purpose, education, and opportunity. He earned his GED, a bachelor’s degree in social sciences, a master’s degree in criminal justice, and completed post-graduate studies in psychology, proving through example that perseverance can overcome even the most difficult beginnings. In retirement, Ray embraced a well-earned slower pace, enjoying time with loved ones, a sharp sense of humor, and the simple pleasure of rest—often joking that he was “working hard at doing nothing.” Above all else, Ray was a devoted husband and family man whose life reflected quiet strength, integrity, and service. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. John Ray Kennamore is survived by his beloved wife, Christel Kennamore; his children, John Kennamore, Jr. and wife Paula, and Sylvia Diana Scyphers and husband Sonny; his grandchildren, Steven Scyphers and wife Mallory, Justin Kennamore and wife Kerri, Brandy Kennamore, Sharon Mines, Brandon Kennamore and wife Anna, and Andrew Kennamore and wife Cherish; his great-grandchildren, Natalie Pierce, Izabella Kennamore, Bradon Kennamore, Alexis Kennamore, Molly Kate Mines, Hadley Scyphers, Claire Mines, Brody Brannon, Paxton Kennamore, Maren Scyphers, Jaxon Robinson, and Braelyn Chalmers; and many close family members and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his memory to your local animal shelter; or to The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, 1 Metroplex Drive , Suite 230, Birmingham, Alabama 35209 (alz.org).
Mr. Lenard Buford Fillingim, a resident of Clayton, Alabama, passed away Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at his residence. He was 79 years old.
Funeral services will be held Friday, January 30, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Prospect Baptist Church in Clayton, with Rev. Hollis Ritter officiating and Glover Funeral Home of Clayton directing. The burial will follow in the church cemetery. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Flowers will be accepted.
Lenard was born on July 29, 1946, in Clayton, Alabama, to the late Buford and Annie Jeannette (Brogden) Fillingim. Lenard proudly served in the US Army National Guard for 26 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, building things, and could fix any vehicle. He helped rebuild a 1950 Chevrolet. Lenard was a member of Prospect Baptist Church.
He is preceded in death by his parents; step-son, Cecil Travis Kessler.
Left to cherish his memories are his loving wife of 47 years, Sandra Green Fillingim; daughter, Tami Troesch; two grandchildren, Joshua Troesch and Jonathan Troesch; three great-grandchildren, Emma Troesch, Tristan Troesch, and Caroline Troesch; brother, Andy Fillingim (Sherry); sister, Linda Sowell (William).
Asked to serve as pallbearers are Jeff Greene, Ryan Greene, and Kevin Greene.
Honorary pallbearers are Brandon Fillingim and Bruce Adams.
Glover Funeral Home of Clayton was entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 775-3403. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com
Barry Christopher Shelton, age 56, a cherished family man and friend whose kindness knew no bounds, passed away on January 22, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama. He was born on June 19, 1969, in Nashville, Tennessee. Barry’s warmth, humor, and generous spirit were a constant light in the lives of all who knew him.
A devoted father, Barry’s greatest pride was his children: Brianna Shelton, Adrianna Hawes (Zackary), and Jeremiah Luckado. His joy multiplied with the arrival of his grandchildren, Kimberly and Tate Hawes, and AJ and Addie Luckado. Affectionately known as “Pop Pop,” Barry delighted in making them laugh and filling their lives with love, humor, and unforgettable memories. He was also survived by his father, Larry Shelton, Sr. and his wife, Vee; and his siblings, Larry Shelton, Jr. and Mary.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Kerry Shelton.
Barry was known for his remarkable work ethic and selfless nature. Those who worked with him knew him as someone who would truly give the shirt off his back to help another. His dedication to his work was matched only by his unwavering commitment to his family and friends.
A true lover of 1980s music, Barry’s playful spirit often turned ordinary gatherings into joyful moments filled with laughter and song. Known for his infectious sense of humor and self-proclaimed nerdy charm, he had a way of making everyone feel welcome and at ease.
Barry’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who loved him. His legacy of kindness, generosity, and laughter will live on through his family. A loving father, a devoted “Pop Pop,” and a loyal friend, Barry Christopher Shelton will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Marilyn June Pennington, a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on January 22, 2026, at the age of 79, in Dothan, Alabama. Born on January 21, 1947, in Houston County, Alabama, Marilyn’s life was a testament to the love and joy she brought to everyone she knew. She was affectionately known by most as “Maw Maw”.
Marilyn’s journey began as a small-town girl with a heart for family. Her infectious smile and generous spirit were a beacon of light to those around her. She married the love of her life, the late Bobby Pennington, Sr. and together they built a family founded on love, respect, and the simple pleasures of life. Marilyn was a devoted mother to her sons, Bobby Pennington (Rene) and Frank Pennington (Lisa). Her role as a grandmother to Eric, Michelle (Dyllan), Nathan, and Corey, and as a great-grandmother to Audrey, Aiden, Leilah, Elijah, Hadley, and Ashby, was one she cherished with every fiber of her being. Marilyn is also survived by her siblings, John Bowen, Rex Bowen, Merlene Devan, Mary Lee Hidalgo, Helen Buntin and Sue Jenkins.
She was preceded in death by her siblings, Henry Bowen, Lela Mae Conner, Christine Thompson and Mildred Woods.
Marilyn’s professional life was marked by a long and fulfilling career at Sony, where she formed lasting friendships and left a legacy of hard work and dedication. Even after retirement, she remained an active and beloved member of her community, sharing her warmth and wisdom with all.
An avid bowler, Marilyn spent many years knocking down pins with her team, forming bonds and creating memories that lasted a lifetime. Her love for Elvis Presley went beyond simple admiration; she especially enjoyed collecting Elvis’s memorabilia, a pursuit that brought her great joy and pride.
Above all, Marilyn’s greatest joy was her family. The weekly family night dinners were a sacred tradition, a time for laughter, stories, and the simple pleasure of being together. She believed that family was the cornerstone of happiness and worked tirelessly to keep her loved ones close.
Marilyn’s love for swimming, playing Bingo, and her unwavering kindness to everyone she met were the hallmarks of a life well-lived. She was a woman of faith, strength and grace, who faced life’s challenges with courage and a smile that could light up a room.
As we bid farewell to Marilyn June Pennington, we celebrate a life that was filled with love, laughter, and the making of cherished memories. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and every life she touched. Marilyn’s story is one of love, family, and the joy of everyday moments. She will be deeply missed, but the warmth of her love will continue to embrace us all.
A private gathering will be held for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama at https://bcrfa.networkforgood.com/projects/53076-bcrfa-donation
Mr. Terry Vann Ingram, a long-time resident of Pansey, passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2025. He was 82.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, January 26, 2026, at Liberty Baptist Church with Reverend Jeff Peacock officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with Glover Funeral Home of Dothan directing. The family will receive friends at the church from 10:00 until 10:45 a.m., prior to the service.
Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to Liberty Baptist Church, 477 Liberty Road, Pansey, AL 36370.
Mr. Ingram was born November 10, 1943, in Houston County to the late Woodrow Wilson & Mary Oleta (Etheredge) Ingram. He was family oriented and enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren in whatever they were involved in. Mr. Ingram was an avid sports fan that loved to watch Auburn & loved to fish. He also enjoyed coaching youth football. Mr. Ingram was a faithful member of Liberty Baptist Church and served as a deacon. He was also employed with Georgia Pacific for 36 years.
He is preceded by his wife of 42 years, Mable Sims; their son, Michael Ingram; his three brothers, Gareth, Manley, and Ronnie Ingram; his two sisters, Gwen Hopper and Shelba Scarbrough.
He is survived by his two sons, Todd Ingram (Stephanie) of Ashford, and Brian Ingram of Pansey; two grandchildren, Luke Ingram, and Ashton Ingram; one sister, Gerry Womack (Bobby); brother-in-law, Vernon Hopper; two sisters-in-law, Edna Ingram, and Sylvia Ingram; and several nieces and nephews.
Glover Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 699-3888.
James Marion Sharron, known affectionately as Jimmy to his friends and family, passed away on January 21, 2026, at the age of 64 in his hometown of Dothan, Alabama, where he was also born on September 29, 1961. Jimmy’s life was one marked by dedication, compassion, and joy, which he spread generously to all those around him.
Jimmy grew up in a close-knit family and was the beloved son of Mary Burns and the late Glenn Sharron. He was a cherished brother to Doug Sharron (Janet), Robby Sharron (Martha), and Gary Campbell (Michelle). He was preceded in death by his brother Martin Sharron, whose memory he held dear to his heart. Jimmy’s legacy continues through his sons, Joseph Sharron (Mallory) and Matthew Sharron (Thea), who were his pride and joy, and his adored grandchildren, Gabby and Kaylin. His ex-wife, Emma Sharron, remained a respected and important part of his life.
A man of intellect and curiosity, Jimmy earned his Bachelor’s degree in computer science from Troy State University, an achievement that laid the foundation for a successful career in computer programming. He dedicated many years to the field, making meaningful contributions to both AAA Cooper and Dairy Fresh. His colleagues respected him for his problem-solving abilities, technical knowledge, and unwavering work ethic. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jimmy was also involved in various associations, where he shared his expertise and enthusiasm in support of the community.
Jimmy’s interests were diverse and always centered around the people he loved. A fond memory for many was watching him play video games with his sons, where he was not just a father but also a friend and playful competitor. His passion for baseball was evident, whether he was cheering from the stands or imparting the love of the game to younger generations. Jimmy was a compassionate soul, always ready with a kind word or a helping hand, and his presence was a source of comfort to those around him.
In every aspect of his life, Jimmy embodied a spirit of generosity and kindness. His ability to listen and truly hear what others were saying made him a confidant and friend to many. He faced life’s challenges with grace and a smile that could light up a room. Jimmy believed in the goodness of people and lived his life as a testament to that belief.
A celebration of Jimmy’s life will be held at 2:00pm on Monday, January 26, 2026 at Sunset Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time at the funeral home.
Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com
Mr. Lenard Buford Fillingim, a resident of Clayton, Alabama, passed away Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at his residence. He was 79 years old.
