Brenda Hallford, 67, of Eufaula, Alabama, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and devotion to her family. She was born on June 4, 1958, in Plant City, Florida, to the late John and Pauline McCord.
Brenda was the devoted wife of the late Gene Hallford, with whom she shared 33 wonderful years of marriage built on love, laughter, and partnership. She was the proud mother of Thomas Hallford, Jr., John Edward Hallford, and Christina Lynn Baughman (Curtis), who were always the center of her life. Her heart overflowed with love for her grandchildren, Lyric Carroll, Logan Hallford, Lanie Mae Hallford, Tabitha Good (Daryl), Austin Baughman, and Ashton Baughman, as well as her great-grandchildren, Rowan Berry, Delilah Carroll, Maddy Carroll, and Kennan Wright. Brenda’s nurturing spirit will also be cherished by her siblings, Faye Trimm (Phil), Annette Simmons (Tim), Wayne McCord, and John Henry McCord, Jr. (Diane), along with many nieces and nephews who adored her. Brenda was also preceded in death by her grandparents.
Brenda built her world around her home and family, where she created a place filled with love, comfort, and open doors for anyone who needed a seat at her table. She devoted her life to raising her children in Cottonwood and took great joy in being the heart of her family.
Her passions reflected her generous and joyful nature. She found peace in crocheting handmade treasures for loved ones, joy in dancing on Saturday nights, and simple pleasure in her shopping trips to Walmart or Sadie’s Flea Market. Yet her happiest times were always those spent with family and friends. Some of her most treasured memories were made on the pontoon boat at Lake Eufaula, floating to the island, sharing stories, and filling the air with laughter that will echo in her family’s hearts forever.
She will be remembered as the steady presence who held her family together, offered comfort in times of need, and celebrated every joy with boundless love. Brenda’s legacy is one of kindness, strength, and devotion, and the lessons she instilled will continue to guide those who loved her for generations to come.
A celebration of Brenda’s life will be held at 2:00pm on Monday, August 25, 2025 at Sunset Funeral Home with Brother Jonathan Broyles officiating. She will be laid to rest in Gardens of Memory Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time.
Dr. Ben Matthew Grimes, M.D., age 89, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on August 12, 2025, at East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, Alabama.
Born in Coffee Springs, Alabama, to Fred and Elsie Grimes, Ben lived a life devoted to service, medicine, family, and faith. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Janice Morgan; his niece, Cornelia Anne Morgan; and his brother-in-law, Thadius William Morgan.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 31 years, Virginia D. Grimes; his children, Dr. Tinsley Grimes (Graham), Andrea Dowell (Patrick), Gilbert Grimes (partner, Jennifer), and John Grimes; his cherished grandchildren, Mac Hendricks, Carson Dowell, and Jacob Dowell; his nephew, Thadius William Morgan Jr.; his brother-in-law, Allison Derby, Jr. (Renee); his niece, Kate Elmore (Chase); his nephew, Al Derby (Paige); numerous great-nieces and great-nephews; and numerous cousins.
A proud graduate of Enterprise High School, Class of 1954, Ben went on to serve his country in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1957, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant.
Dr. Grimes’s remarkable medical career spanned more than four decades. He earned his B.S. from the University of Alabama in 1960, where he was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, and his M.D. from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in 1963. Following his internship at Carraway Methodist Medical Center and a fellowship in Internal Medicine and Pulmonary Diseases at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, he served as a respected physician, educator, and leader in both pulmonary medicine and anesthesiology. His career included roles at Carraway Methodist Medical Center, the University of Alabama Hospital, Anderson Regional Medical Center, Jackson Hospital, Montgomery Surgical Center, and Baptist Medical Center, among others. He held several leadership positions, including Chairman of Critical Care Medicine, Director of the Intensive Care Unit, and President of the Tri-States Thoracic Society.
Beyond his medical achievements, Ben was a man of kindness, humor, and integrity. He enjoyed time with family and friends, whether relaxing at his farm, spending days at the bay, or sharing his dry wit. A devoted fan of the University of Alabama Crimson Tide and the St. Louis Cardinals, he was always quick with a smile and rooted deeply for the teams he loved.
His family extends heartfelt gratitude to Auburn Assisted Living and the caregivers at Synergy for their devoted care, compassion, and friendship during his final months.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. James Episcopal Church in Livingston, Alabama. Burial will follow at the Campbell/Derby Cemetery in Whitfield, Alabama.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.freemancitronelle.com. Freeman Funeral Home – Citronelle, Alabama
Memorials may be made in Ben’s honor to St. James Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 446, Livingston, Alabama 35470.
Ben leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and dedication to others, along with the quiet strength of a man who carried no unkindness in his heart. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Richard Hubert Lovely Jr., a revered figure in the Dothan community and a man of exceptional courage and intelligence, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama. Born on January 19, 1937, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Richard’s adventurous spirit and commitment to service defined his 88 years of life.
After graduating from Grand Junction High School, Richard’s quest for knowledge and skill led him to the Marion Institute in Alabama. His academic journey culminated with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon at Arizona State University. Richard’s career was as varied as it was impactful. He honorably served his country as a helicopter pilot in the military, stationed in France for four years. His dedication to flight continued as he returned to the United States, where he spent two years as a fixed-wing instructor pilot at Fort Rucker.
Richard’s passion for aviation never waned, but he also pursued a successful career as an engineer. He played a significant role in constructing the Dothan Farley nuclear plant, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to the community’s growth. Beyond his professional endeavors, Richard was a dedicated helicopter pilot for the Alabama National Guard until his retirement. His work as an investigator at the Fort Rucker Safety Center was marked by a global reach, ensuring safety and precision in aviation far beyond his local community.
Richard’s love for the skies was evident in his volunteer work as a pilot with the Dothan Civil Air Patrol. His contributions to the field of aviation were not only a testament to his adventurous nature but also to his desire to serve others. He is a long-time resident of Dothan since 1969.
He is survived by his beloved son, Christopher Lovely. Richard also leaves behind an ex-wife, Danielle Lovely. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Hubert Lovely Sr. and Virginia Lovely, who instilled in him the values of hard work and resilience.
William Albert Rivenbark passed away on Monday, August 18, 2025, at his residence in Dothan, Alabama. He was 69 years old.
He was born on December 16, 1955 in Dothan, Alabama to the late Albert and Laurjean Rivenbark.
William was a man of great determination and strong work ethic. His success in life was entirely self-made and hard earned, a true reflection of the kind of man he was. He had a deep love for the outdoors and found joy in hunting and fishing.
Above all, William was a loving father and grandfather. He shared a special bond with his daughter, Ashley, and treasured every moment with his grandchildren, Clark and Cecilia. His love also extended to his nieces and nephews, who held a very special place in his heart. A loyal friend to many, he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 21, 2025 at Bottoms Garden Chapel Funeral Home in Hartford. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Dric Williford officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery under the direction of Shelby Lett of Bottoms Garden Chapel Funeral Home.
William was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Laurjean Rivenbark, wife, Julie Rivenbark; grandparents, Marvin and Exie Wood and W.C. and Martha Rivenbark; nephew, Albert Bettis; aunt, Martha Sue Wood; uncle, David Rivenbark, and brother-in-law, James Cowart.
Survivors include his daughter, Ashley Ramsey and son-in-law, Peter of Dothan; grandchildren, Clark and Cecilia Ramsey of Dothan; sister, Laura Cowart of Geneva; brother, Marvin Rivenbark (Laura) of Wicksburg; mother of his child, Cathy Clark Rivenbark; cousin, Margaret Hendrix (Rodney) of Hartford; and many special nieces and nephews.
Serving as pallbearers: Quintin Bettis, Trey Bettis, Grant Bettis, Stewart Rivenbark, Spencer Rivenbark, and Sawyer Rivenbark.
Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation in honor of William.
Harris “Harry” Obed Pittman, III, a man of unwavering faith and boundless love, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 18, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama. Harry’s life was marked by devotion to his family, his community, and his God, leaving a legacy of kindness and integrity that will be cherished by all who knew him.
Born in Sandersville, Georgia, Harry was the beloved son of Christine Burgamy Pittman and the late Harris Obed Pittman, Jr. He was a proud graduate of Washington County High School, Middle Georgia College, and Valdosta State College, where he completed his education in 1972. His academic achievements laid the foundation for a distinguished career in the banking industry, where he was known for his astute financial acumen and trustworthy leadership. Harry’s professional journey led him to Dothan in 1994 with Southland Bank, which later became Ameris Bank. His dedication and expertise earned him the roles of Vice President, President, and eventually Regional President, positions in which he served with honor and distinction until his retirement.
Harry’s life was a testament to his Christian faith. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church Dothan, where he found great joy and spiritual growth. His daily routine of praying and reading the Bible with his wife, Beth, was a source of strength and comfort to them both. Harry’s love for the Lord was evident in his passion for Bible trivia and his constant gratitude for the salvation of his family and friends. His faith-filled life was a beacon of light to those around him.
Family was the cornerstone of Harry’s life. He is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife of 51 years, Elizabeth Pedrick Pittman, the unwavering love of his life. Together, they raised two sons, Harris (Vickie) Pittman, IV and Scott (Becky) Pittman, who brought into the world grandchildren Eli, Ria, Elliot, and June. Harry’s mother, Christine Pittman, his sister, Dianne (Glenn) Walker, two nephews, Patrick and Brian Walker. He was a selfless and loving patriarch, always placing the needs of his family above his own.
To his grandchildren, Harry was affectionately known as “Hop”, a nickname that captured his playful spirit. He was a dedicated father, never missing an opportunity to support his boys in their endeavors, and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. Harry and Beth’s shared love of travel took them to numerous countries around the world, creating a tapestry of memories that will be treasured forever.
Harry’s life will be celebrated at 11 am on Thursday, August 21, 2025 at First Baptist Church Dothan, with Dr. Taylor Rutland and Rev. Bob Gross officiating. Friends and loved ones are welcome to join the family for visitation at the church on Thursday from 10-11 am. His final resting place will be at Brownwood Cemetery in Sandersville, GA, where Rev. Lee Lacey will officiate the burial at 10 am EST on Friday, August 22, 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society, donate.cancer.org, or to Wiregrass United Way, 304 N. Foster St., Dothan, AL 36301, or to Tennille Retirement Home, 515 N. Main St., Tennille, GA 31089.
The life of Harris “Harry” Pittman was a portrait of love, service, and faith. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, reminding us that a life well-lived is one filled with love for family, faith in God, and selfless dedication to others. Harry will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA…Mr. Alex Parker, Jr., a resident of Tallahassee, Florida, passed away early Saturday morning, August 16, 2025, in Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare. He was 71.
Celebration of Life Services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Friday, August 22, 2025, in the Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home Chapel with his brother-in-law, Roy Shaw officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:00 until 1:00 P.M. Friday at the funeral home. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Parker was born on August 2, 1954, in the sunny city of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. As a young boy, he was full of life with a lot of energy and was lovingly known for his spark of humor and infamous and infectious laugh that would stay with him throughout his life. He moved with his family to Willingboro, New Jersey at an early age, where he grew up surrounded by love, laughter, and the kind of lessons that only life can teach.
He graduated from John F. Kennedy High School in Willingboro in 1972, a proud moment for him and his family. Not long after, he made the brave decision to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps. His time in the Marines shaped him—instilling discipline, resilience, and a deep sense of pride. After his military service, he continued his journey as a merchant marine for two years, traveling the seas and adding more stories to the ones he’d later share with a grin and a twinkle in his eye.
Eventually, Mr. Parker found his way back to Florida and New Jersey before settling down in Tallahassee in the early 1990s. It was there, he built an adventurous but steady life while working at Florida State University as a groundskeeper. He took pride in his work and loved to fellowship with his coworkers. He was a kind man that always had a smile on his face, and always eager with joy to see his family. He was very protective and didn’t always express his love by words but with gestures that came straight from the heart. You understood that he loved you.
If you knew Mr. Parker, you knew he had a gift for making people laugh. He was the family “cut up”—always ready with a joke, a funny story, or a playful jab that left everyone smiling. He had a deep love for boxing, football, and karate, and he could talk about them for hours. But one of his true joys was cooking, especially his famous chili. It wasn’t just about the food—it was about the care he put into it, the way he’d quietly offer a bowl to someone he loved, letting the warmth of the meal say what words sometimes couldn’t.
He didn’t always speak his feelings out loud, but you could feel them in the way he looked after his family, in the meals he prepared, and in the quiet moments he shared. His love was steady, dependable, and always present—even if it came in the form of a plate of food or a helping hand.
Mr. Parker was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Catherine Terry West, and his siblings Gussie Demise Parker, Percy Berry, James Parker, and Patricia Parker. Though they are no longer with us, their memories live on in the stories we tell and the love we carry forward.
He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, strength, and quiet devotion. Mr. Parker will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His spirit lives on in every smile he inspired, every meal he shared, and every heart he touched.
Surviving relatives include his daughter, Tiffany Hinson, Kennesaw, Georgia; father, Alex Parker, Sr., Daleville; sister, Timeka Shaw (Roy), Ozark; brother, Ivan W. West (Nikki), Daleville; four grandchildren, Tavon Scott, Sheyanne Scott, Shamir Hinson, and Devin Clayton; two great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and cousins.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
Obituary for Dr. Ben Matthew Grimes, M.D.
