ASHFORD… Nanci Virginia Clark Bottoms, a resident of Ashford, Alabama, passed away peacefully at home while surrounded by her family, who loved her deeply, on Sunday afternoon, December 21, 2025, at her home. She was 74.
A memorial service will be held 2:00 P.M. Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at the Ashford Historic Train Depot, 312 Midland Street, Ashford, Alabama 36312, with Chaplain Dalton Keel officiating. Wright Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.
Mrs. Bottoms was born in Elba, Alabama to the late Finton Clark and Louise Moore Clark. She earned a BSN and two master’s degrees, with one in nursing and another in nursing anesthesia, to pursue a career as a CRNA, reflecting her lifelong dedication to healthcare. She had previously lived in Enterprise and Panama City Beach, Florida, before moving to Ashford, Alabama just shy of a year ago.
Along with her parents, she preceded in death by her husband, Michael Dean Bottoms; her sister, Sara Maher; and her brothers, James Clark and Buddy Clark.
Leaving to cherish her memories are her daughter, Heather Harrison Perry (Robert) of Ashford, AL; her son, Derrick Rainwater (Carol) of Enterprise, AL; her step-children, Kimberly Bottoms Buxton (William) of Enterprise, AL and Christopher Dean Bottoms (Mark) of Eugene, OR; her sister, Celia Allen of Elba, AL; her brother, Charles Clark (Huey) of Jacksonville, AL; her grandchildren, Andrew Perry, Abbey Perry, Austin Rainwater, Trent Rainwater, Ella Perry, Paul Bower, Ian Bower, Ashton Buxton, and Ashlynn Buxton; her four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank DaySprings Hospice, especially Olivia, Heather, Sonya, Bree, and Dalton. The family also would like to express a sincere thank you to Leslie Lane, who was Mrs. Bottoms personal caregiver.
Judith B. Decker, affectionately known as Judy to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama. Born on June 28, 1940, in Bessemer, Alabama, Judy’s life was a testament to her loving, kind, and generous spirit.
Judy’s early years were spent in North Alabama, where she completed her high school education. Her quest for knowledge and her passion for helping others led her to Auburn University, where she earned an associate’s degree in education. Judy’s commitment to education was evident throughout her career as she dedicated many years to shaping young minds as a substitute teacher in Houston County Schools and Dothan City Schools.
Judy’s love for her family was the cornerstone of her life. She is survived by her son, Justin Decker, and her granddaughter, Lauren Case, who both brought immense joy to her life. Judy’s legacy also lives on through her numerous nieces and nephews, who will cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her sons, Bradley Baughan and William Baughan; her grandson, Allen Bradley; her parents, William Bradley and Ruth Roy Bradley; and her sister, Lena Ruth Bradley. Each of these individuals held a special place in Judy’s heart, and she carried their memories with her always.
A woman of many interests, Judy was an active member of the Newcomers Club and the Dothan PEO Sisterhood. Her involvement in these organizations reflected her love for community and her desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Judy’s passion for helping people was matched only by her love for needlepointing, gardening, and playing bridge. Her social nature made her a beloved figure in her community, and her presence at social gatherings will be deeply missed.
Judy’s kindness extended beyond her immediate circle, touching the lives of students, friends, and even strangers. Her generosity knew no bounds, and she was always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. Those who knew Judy will remember her for her warm smile, her gentle demeanor, and her unwavering positivity.
Lynda Janine Starling, known affectionately to all as Janine, passed away on December 22, 2025, in Dothan, AL, concluding a life marked by dedication, resilience, and love. Born on November 2, 1962, in Bainbridge, GA, to the late Larry Hare Sr. and Mary Jean Hare, Janine’s journey through life was characterized by her unwavering spirit and her devotion to those she held dear.
Janine’s professional path as an administrative assistant and secretary in the healthcare sector was a testament to her commitment to helping others. Her meticulous work ethic and compassionate nature made her a beloved figure among her colleagues and the many lives she touched through her role. Her contribution to the healthcare community was not merely a job but a calling, as she provided support and care that went beyond her duties.
Janine’s zest for life was paralleled by the love she had for her family. She is survived by a family who adored her, including her children, Steve Starling, Casey Starling, who is married to Brad, and Briana Starling. Her legacy continues through the life of her grandchild, Sophia McCoy, who brought immense joy and pride to Janine’s life. Janine’s siblings, brother Blake Hare and his wife Renee, along with sister Donna Lewis, will hold dear the memories of a sister whose life was full of laughter and love. A host of nieces, nephews, and other family members also share in the loss of Janine, each with their own cherished memories of the times they spent with her.
As we say goodbye to Janine Starling, we celebrate her life and the countless ways in which she enriched the lives of those around her. Her warmth, her generosity, and her unwavering positivity will be deeply missed, but the memory of her spirit will continue to guide and inspire us. We take solace in knowing that her legacy will live on through the love she shared and the lives she touched. Janine’s story is one of triumph, love, and an enduring spirit that will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Shirley Marie Hughes, a beacon of warmth and the heart of every gathering, passed away on December 22, 2025. Born on July 28, 1949, in Dothan, AL, Shirley’s early years in Midland City were filled with the love of a close-knit family, a fondness that only grew as she moved to Columbus and eventually returned to her roots in Dothan.
Shirley’s life was one of devotion and joy. A homemaker throughout her life, she found great pleasure in nurturing her family and creating a welcoming home for all who crossed her threshold. Her passion for life was complemented by her role as a drummer in her husband Ronnie Hughes’ band, where she played for a decade, adding rhythm and vitality to many cherished melodies.
Survived by her daughter, Lisa Merritt, and son-in-law Jerry, Shirley’s legacy continues through her vibrant family, including her sisters Joann Keath, Kathy Looney, and Martha Cavitt, along with her brother-in-law Mike. Her spirit also lives on in the laughter and stories of her several nieces and nephews, each of whom she adored.
Shirley’s education journey began in Midland City, took her to Dothan, and later to Columbus, but it was the lessons she learned from life and people that she valued most. A woman of faith, she was an active member of the Baptist community, where she shared her love and kindness with all.
An outgoing, center-of-attention personality, Shirley thrived when hosting gatherings at her home. Her hands were never idle, often seen skillfully shuffling dominos or preparing sumptuous meals for her loved ones. Her cooking was not just food; it was an expression of her love and a testament to her belief in the power of fellowship.
Shirley was a person who never met a stranger. Her ability to strike up a conversation with anyone she met was unparalleled, and her genuine interest in others’ lives won her many lifelong friends. Whether offering a listening ear or sharing her own stories, Shirley’s presence was a gift to everyone she encountered.
As we say goodbye to Shirley Marie Hughes, we celebrate a life lived with gusto, generosity, and an open heart. Her memory will be cherished and her stories retold, ensuring that her spirit continues to inspire and bring joy to those who were fortunate enough to know her. Shirley’s life was a melody, a harmonious blend of love, laughter, and the enduring beat of a drum that will echo in the hearts of her family and friends forever.
An entombment will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, December 26, 2025 at Sunset Memorial Park.
Mr. Charles J. Erhart of Gordon passed away Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at the age of 71.
Graveside services will be held at 2 P.M. Friday, December 26, 2025, at Memory Hill Cemetery with Ward Wilson Funeral Home directing.
Mr. Erhart was born May 28, 1954, and was a lifetime painter who took pride in his work and the people around him loved him. He had a big sense of humor, and enjoyed fishing and spending time with his grandkids who he loved dearly.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles Erhart and Mary Louise Erhart, and his brother, Jimmy Wayne Cobb.
He is survived by his significant other, Kay Beasley, brother, James Roger Cobb (Susan), step-son, Dwayne Beasley (Tammy), step-daughter, Lynn Holloway, eight grandchildren, and twenty one great-grandchildren.
Rebecca Herring King went home to be with the Lord for all eternity on the nineteenth of December, 2025. She passed away at her home in Germantown, peacefully surrounded by her devoted husband and daughter after a long illness. Rebecca is now at rest, joining her parents, Raymond and Ruth Herring. She is preceded in death by daughter Lisa King of Birmingham, AL; sister Emma Hollis and niece Sandra Hollis, both of Henry County, AL; and son-in-law, Larry Garrett of Brentwood, TN.
Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband of almost 74 years, Connie Mack
King and her daughter, Rhonda King Garrett. Rebecca was blessed with two grandchildren, John Michael (Tori) and Lucy Bowling; and three granddaughters by marriage, Kelly Garrett Hancock (Bradford), Diana Garrett Jackson (Orsorio), and Caroline Garrett Andrews (Tyler). Rebecca was blessed with ten great-grandchildren as well.
Rebecca was born on the twenty-sixth of February, 1932, to Raymond and Ruth Herring in the Browns Cross Roads Community in Henry County, Alabama. She grew up and lived in Tumbleton, AL, until she met the love of her life, Connie Mack King, whom she married on January 6, 1952. Connie and Rebecca went on to have a wonderful life together. Many marveled at their enduring love story. They were blessed sweethearts to the very end of her days.
Before moving from Dothan, AL, Rebecca worked for The Headland National Bank and Dothan Bank and Trust. After several years, the Kings moved throughout Alabama to Birmingham and Anniston before permanently settling in Tennessee in 1966. They lived in East Memphis until retirement where they moved to Germantown. The Lord blessed Rebecca and Connie with two daughters, Rhonda and Lisa. Rebecca was a wonderful and devoted mother to them. Her dedication to her family was unmatched.
Rebecca was the epitome of a true, sweet Southern lady who, with grace and charm, strived to
live her life by example and to train up her girls in the way they should go, as the book of Proverbs describes. She would say that her two greatest joys and accomplishments in life were the love of her husband and the gift of her daughters.
Rebecca’s faith guided her, and she genuinely loved people and her church community. She was especially active in the churches she was a member of, where she served in many capacities. Some of her favorite positions were teaching the Girls Auxiliary, being a long term Sunshine Chairman in her Sunday school classes, and serving on the Lord’s Supper and Baptism committees. She was known for the scrumptious poundcakes she made for anyone who was sick or just for a happy treat.
Known for her creative flair, Rebecca won many ribbons in the Garden Club and enjoyed
decorating. She helped many people enhance their homes, which brought her much
joy. She considered creating beauty and helping to create a welcoming home as her ministry. In her later years, Rebecca, Connie, and Rhonda even owned an antique and accessory business. She was active in charity work and was a longtime member and officer of the Josephine Circle charity. Rebecca’s golden friends brought much delight to her life, where they enjoyed playing bridge, going out to eat, and having coffee dates. She especially loved traveling with her husband. They were blessed to have visited over 35 countries together.
We would be remiss if we did not mention Rebecca’s love for sports, especially her beloved
University of Alabama Crimson Tide football team. Rebecca received a kiss from Connie for each Alabama score. Needless to say, she received many kisses. Not only did she love football, but she also appreciated watching tennis and golf. She was truly a woman of many interests and talents.
Rebecca will be deeply missed by all who loved and cherished her. A graveside service will be held to honor her on December 27, 2025, at New Zion Baptist Church in Tumbleton, Alabama, at 2:30 P.M. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Youth Department of the Covenant Baptist Church. Mailing address: P.O. Box1165 Collierville, Tennessee 38027.
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.
Lynda Janine Starling, known affectionately to all as Janine, passed away on December 22, 2025, in Dothan, AL, concluding a life marked by dedication, resilience, and love. Born on November 2, 1962, in Bainbridge, GA, to the late Larry Hare Sr. and Mary Jean Hare, Janine’s journey through life was characterized by her unwavering spirit and her devotion to those she held dear.
