OZARK…Mr. Morris R. Lattimore, Jr. (Colonel, United States Army, Retired), a resident of Ozark, died early Tuesday afternoon, May 12, 2026, at his home. He was 76.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, May 20, 2026, in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church with Father Chris Boutin officiating. Full Military honors will be given immediately following the services. The family will receive friends following the service. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Lattimore, the son of the late Morris Robert Lattimore, Sr. and Elaine Wood Lattimore, was born and raised in LaCrosse, Wisconsin, a place he always carried with him in spirit. After graduating from LaCrosse High School, he went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin in 1972.
In 1973, he began what would become a lifelong commitment to service by joining the United States Army Reserve. His dedication to learning and helping others led him to the Illinois College of Optometry, where he graduated in 1976. Soon after, he entered active duty with the United States Army, beginning a distinguished military career that spanned decades and took him around the world. He retired in 2005 with the rank of Colonel, a reflection of both his leadership and his deep sense of duty.
Never one to stop learning, he earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Physiological Optics from the University of Houston in 1987. After retiring from the Army, he continued serving in another way—this time as a Civil Service employee at Fort Rucker. There, he worked as the Deputy Commander of the United States Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory, a role he held with pride until his final retirement in 2020.
Outside of his professional life, Mr. Lattimore found joy in simple, peaceful moments. He loved spending time in his yard, tending to the outdoors with the same care he gave to everything in his life. The beach was another place he cherished—a spot where he could relax, breathe, and enjoy the beauty around him. He was a faithful member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Ozark, where he found community and comfort.
Above all, he was a devoted father, and he carried the memory of his daughter, Sarah Elizabeth Lattimore, who preceded him in death, close to his heart. Those who knew him will remember his quiet strength, his dedication, and the gentle way he moved through the world. His life was one of service, learning, and love, and he leaves behind a legacy that will be felt for years to come.
Surviving relatives include his wife of fifty-years, Carol J. Gardner Lattimore, Ozark; sister, Cynthia Rife (John), Crossville, Tennessee; brother, James Lattimore (Tammy), Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
Jack Turner, known to many as Red, passed away on May 11, 2026, in Eufaula at the age of 81.
Born on July 13, 1944, in Alabama, Red spent his life in the Skipperville and Abbeville communities. He was known as a hardworking man who cared deeply for his family and enjoyed the simple things in life.
Red worked for many years as a truck driver, a job he took pride in and one that reflected his dependable nature and strong work ethic. Outside of work, he enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family.
Family was the most important part of Red’s life. He was preceded in death by his wife, Martha Turner; his twin brother, Mac Turner; his brothers, Austin Turner and Bob Turner; and his sister, Merlene Turner.
He is survived by his son, Jackie Turner and wife Deborah; his grandchildren, Tony Turner, Brandon Turner and wife Christian, Thomas Prince, and Sondra Boswell and husband Jeremiah; his great-grandchildren, Emily Turner, Alyssa Turner, Dakotah Turner, Amiah Boswell, and Alayna Boswell; and his brother, Billy Turner.
Red will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. His family and friends will remember his steady presence, his dedication to hard work, and the love he showed to those closest to him.
Donald Wayne McAllister, born on March 18, 1954, in Dothan, passed away on May 11, 2026, in the same city he called home throughout his life.
He was a man whose life reflected devotion, hard work, and quiet strength. Don was born in Dothan to the late James and Lenora McAllister, and he grew up surrounded by family values that shaped the course of his life. He attended Dothan High School and was a proud member of the Class of 1972. Those who knew him remember a steady, dependable man who carried himself with humility and grace.
After high school, Don answered the call to serve his country and joined the United States Navy, where he served honorably for six years. His time in the Navy included electrician training at Naval Station Great Lakes and nuclear training at Mare Island. He served aboard the USS Saratoga aircraft carrier and the USS Paiute, and through his dedication and leadership he rose to the rank of Petty Officer First Class. Don was a patriotic man who took great pride in his service and in the discipline and responsibility it instilled in him. His years in the Navy were an important part of his life and helped shape the character that family and friends admired in him.
Following his military service, Don built a long and dedicated career as an electrician at Joseph M. Farley Nuclear Plant, where he worked from 1981 until 2011. He was known for his strong work ethic, his reliability, and the respect he earned from those who worked alongside him. He approached his work with care and commitment, and he took pride in doing his job well. His career reflected the same steadfastness that guided every part of his life.
On a personal level, Don was a devoted family man. He married Daisy in 1975, and together they shared a life built on love, loyalty, and enduring companionship. He was a loving husband, a proud father, and a man who cherished the bonds of family above all else. He is survived by his wife, Daisy McAllister; his son, Rex Aaron McAllister; and his daughter, Robin McAllister Johnston. He also leaves behind his brother, Jerry McAllister; his nephews, Steven McAllister and JD McAllister; and many others who loved him deeply and will carry his memory forward. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Lenora McAllister, and by his brother, Russell Scott McAllister.
Don had many interests that brought joy to his life. He loved sports cars and motorcycles, and he enjoyed the excitement and freedom they represented. He was also a pianist, and music was one of the gifts that added warmth and beauty to his life. His faith was important to him, and he served faithfully in church, offering his time and presence in ways that reflected his humble spirit. He was also a devoted cat dad and took great comfort and joy in the companionship of the pets he loved. These interests, along with his devotion to family, revealed a man who found meaning in both simple pleasures and acts of service.
Don will be remembered for his kind heart, his steady presence, great sense of humor and the love he gave so freely to those around him. He lived a life marked by faith, service, and devotion to his family. Though he has departed this life, the example he set and the memories he created will remain with all who knew and loved him. His legacy is one of loyalty, strength, and quiet goodness, and he will be deeply missed.
A celebration of Don’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Sunset Funeral Home with Rev. Mark Kocsis officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 10:00 am -11:00 am on Saturday.
James Cecil “Jimmy” Barrentine, Jr., affectionately known as “Mullet” to his friends, was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. He passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
A Memorial Visitation will be held from 1:00 until 2:30, Sunday, May 17, in the Parlor of the First United Methodist Church of Dothan. A private family burial will be held at a later date.
Jimmy was born on September 21, 1943, in Dothan, Alabama, to the late James Cecil Barrentine, Sr. and Annie Duffell Barrentine. He graduated from Dothan High School and continued his education at Troy State University. He also proudly served in the Army National Guard.
A proud third-generation seafood supplier in the Wiregrass area, Jimmy began working at a young age in his father’s seafood business. Through years of dedication, he built a reputation for hard work, integrity, and a deep commitment to his trade. He was especially proud when his sons chose to carry on the family tradition and join him in the business. In his later years, when his health no longer allowed him to work, he found great comfort and pride in watching his sons take over and successfully manage all aspects of the company.
Outside of work, Jimmy found his greatest joy in the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing, especially when those moments were shared with his children and grandchildren. The memories made during those times will be cherished by his family for generations.
Jimmy will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his strong work ethic, and his quiet, steady presence. The legacy he leaves behind is one of dedication, love, and lasting memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Thomas Barrentine.
He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Carole McGriff Barrentine; his sons, Chad Barrentine (Rachel) and Judd Barrentine (Stephanie); his daughter, Ann Kathryn Barrentine Scarbrough; and his beloved grandchildren, Jackson Barrentine, Sawyer Barrentine, Judd Barrentine, Jr. (Carson), Lily Barrentine, Isaac Burchfield, Seth Burchfield, River Scarbrough, and Finn Scarbrough; his sisters, Peggy Schenck (Larry) and Cecilia Whitaker. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law, Danny McGriff (Jo) and David McGriff, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him greatly.
The family would like to express their appreciation to the nurses and staff of Day Spring Hospice for the love and support shown to their loved one during this very difficult time.
Glover Funeral Home and Crematory has been entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 699-3888.
OZARK…Mr. Robert Lee Powell, a resident of Ozark, died early Monday evening, May 11, 2026, in Dale Medical Center. He was 64.
A gathering of family and friends will be held Friday, May 15, 2026, from 10:00 until 11:00 A.M. in the Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home Chapel. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Powell, son of the late Lantie Bob Powell and Lucille Blakey Powell, was a proud native of Florida whose life journey carried him to many places but always brought him back to the people he loved. He moved to Ozark at an early age, where he began building the roots and relationships that would shape much of his life. Later, he spent several meaningful years in West Virginia, a place that became a second home to him and where he formed friendships that remained dear to his heart. Eventually, he returned to Ozark, carrying with him the memories, stories, and bonds he had gathered along the way.
He found his greatest joy in the simple, grounding pleasures of life—being outdoors, feeling the sun on his face, and sharing unhurried moments with family and friends. He especially cherished the time spent with his West Virginia friends, whose companionship brought him laughter, comfort, and a sense of belonging. To those who knew him, he was steady, genuine, and always ready with a warm smile or a kind word.
Mr. Powell was preceded in death by his brother, Ronnie Bob Powell, whose memory he carried with quiet love. Though he has left this earthly life, the kindness he showed, the friendships he nurtured, and the love he shared will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
Surviving relatives include his sisters, Linda Tomlin, Ozark, Lesa Johnson, Morristown, Tennessee, and Rebecca Simmons (Russell), Ariton; two brothers, Bobby Powell (Mary), Hartford and Larry Powell (Debbie), Ozark; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives.
BIRMINGHAM…Essie V. McLeod Byrd, a resident of Birmingham (formerly of Ozark), passed away late Monday evening, May 4, 2026, in a Dothan hospital. She was 83.
Homegoing services will be held at 1:00 P.M., Saturday, May 16, 2026, St. Paul AME Church with Reverend Gregory Keith McLeod officiating. Burial will follow in Asbury Cemetery near Skipperville, Alabama. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. The family will receive friends from 12:00 until 1:00 P.M. Saturday at the church.
God saw you getting tired and a cure was not to be; so he put his arms around you and whispered, “Come with me.”
With heartfelt gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we celebrate the legacy of Essie Viola McLeod Byrd affectionately known as “Nanny” who was surrounded by love as she peacefully transitioned from her earthly life on the evening of May 4,2026.
Essie was born on April 26, 1943, in Ozark, Alabama, to the late John Oliver and Essie Mae McLeod. She was educated in Dale County and attended DA Smith High School. Essie confessed Christ at an early age and joined St Paul AME Church. She was a devoted member and served the church in several capacities, including the ladies aid, church usher, and food committee.
Essie will be remembered for her free spirit, love of fishing, touching the hearts of many, her kindness, and love of family and friends. We will all miss her tasteful cooking and her making sure nobody went home hungry from her cookouts.
She was proceeded in death by; her parents, John Oliver and Essie Mae McLeod, four brothers; Willie D. McLeod, Johnny Mack MeLeod, Bobby Lee McLeod, and Floyd McLeod. Five sisters; Winona Harris, Minnie Lee Johnson, Ola Mae Johnson, Margart Sue Wilson, and Annie D. Edwards.
She leaves to cherish her memory; daughter, Eleanor Martinez; son, Luther D. Byrd, grandchildren; Shamika Byrd, Reginald Byrd, Nakeia Martinez, Latonya Byrd, Renata Martinez, and Katrice Snell, great grandchildren; Janisha Williams, Ketavion Ike, Daetrion Byrd, Kaylyn Pitts, Salaysis Johnson, and Truth Johnson; two sister-in laws; Mrs. Edna Meral Byrd of Atlanta, and Mrs. Lee McLeod; special cousin and best friend, Bonnie Dyck; special nephew/2nd son, Darren Wilson, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
