Mary Lou Woods, of Ashford, Alabama, passed away leaving behind a legacy woven with love, family, and devotion. She was born on November 16, 1944, in Greenhead, Florida, to the late Daniel and Leila Adell Clark. One of eleven children, Mary Lou was raised in Panama City, Florida, where she grew up surrounded by the strength and closeness of a large, loving family.
It was in Panama City that Mary Lou met the love of her life, Jeff Earnest Woods Sr. Together they shared 46 years of marriage, building a home rooted in faithfulness, laughter, and deep family bonds. Their life together was marked by enduring love and unwavering commitment to one another and to their children.
Mary Lou had a special gift for creating beauty with her hands. She lovingly hand-sewed quilts for those she cherished, each stitch a reflection of her care, patience, and generous heart. These quilts became treasured keepsakes—lasting symbols of her warmth and the love she so freely gave.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Jeff Earnest Woods Sr.; her daughter, Hellen Woods; her grandson, Daniel Wilkes; her daughter-in-law, Malisa Woods; and several brothers and sisters.
Mary Lou is survived by her children, Molly Abbott (James Sr.), Jeff E. Woods Jr., and Anna Woods (Sonny); and her son-in-law, Jerry Woods.
She also leaves behind a large and loving family of grandchildren: Robert Wilkes Jr.; Brandy Hires (Mike); James Abbott Jr.; Charles Abbott; Joseph Abbott; Andrew Abbott; Christopher Young (Virginia); Meagan Locklar; Jeff M. Woods; Emma Rocha (Greg); Mary Elizabeth Wiggins (Aaron); Christopher Woods (Maiah); and Tessa Woods.
Her legacy continues through her cherished great-grandchildren: Taylor Thaxton; Chloe, Mason, and John Hires; Abigail, Grace, and Wyatt Wiggins; Maverick, Octavia, and Lucia Rocha; Cailyn and Camila Young; and Leonardo Meola, as well as a god great granddaughter.
Mary Lou’s greatest joy was her family, and her life was a testament to love given freely and faithfully. Her kindness, strength, and the love she stitched into every quilt will be remembered always by all who were blessed to know her.
A celebration of Mary Lou’s life will be held on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 10am in the Sunset Memorial Park Chapel with burial to follow in Antioch Baptist Church Cemetery.
Carol Leigh McAbee, a beacon of warmth and affection to all who knew her, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama. Born on March 13, 1974, in the rolling hills of Kentucky, Carol’s journey through life was marked by an unwavering dedication to her family, a passion for simple pleasures, and a heart brimming with kindness.
Carol’s life was a testament to love and commitment, beautifully exemplified by her 20-year marriage to her beloved husband, Robert McAbee. Carol nurtured a family that was her pride and joy. Her legacy lives on through her son, Robert Alex McAbee, and her daughter, Keri Lynn Davis, as well as her precious grandchildren, Scarlett Deese and Evilynn Rose Chandler. Carol’s nurturing spirit was also a source of comfort to her mother, Debra Banfield, her sister, Stacy Banfield and a host of other family members, who will deeply miss her guiding light. She was preceded in death by her father, Larry Banfield, her son, Kenny Ray Davis, and her brother, Robert Banfield, who each held a special place in her heart.
Carol’s early education in Kentucky laid the foundation for a life characterized by hard work and perseverance. Her professional journey was highlighted by over eight years of dedicated service at Professional Wiregrass Communications, where she was a valued member of the messaging center team. Her colleagues will remember her as a friend who could always be counted on for support and a smile.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Carol’s personal interests painted a picture of a woman who cherished the simple joys of life. She had an infectious enthusiasm for going to yard sales and thrift stores, delighting in the thrill of discovering hidden treasures. Her collection of frogs was not just a hobby but a reflection of her playful and curious nature.
Carol’s love for her family was the cornerstone of her existence. She poured her heart into every moment spent with her grandchildren, and her love for them was as boundless as the sky. Her friends and family will forever remember her as the epitome of friendliness, love, and kindness—a woman whose laughter and warmth lit up any room.
As we bid farewell to Carol Leigh McAbee, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a spirit that will continue to inspire. Her memory will be cherished in the hearts of those she touched, and her light will continue to guide us, just as the stars guide travelers through the night. Carol’s journey on earth may have concluded, but her spirit remains an indelible part of the tapestry of our lives.
Mr. Joseph Edward Anthony, Jr. went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, December 12, 2025 at Flowers Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was 84.
A Celebration of Joes’ home going will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at First Baptist Church of Slocomb with Reverend Brad Price and Robert Letson officiating and Sorrells Funeral Home of Slocomb directing. To honor Joe, the family invites everyone to wear orange and blue for his celebration of life.
The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to service time.
Mr. Anthony was born March 18, 1941 in Riverview, Alabama to the late Edward and Lottie Mae Anthony. He was a graduate of Shorter High School. He was employed with the Alabama Department of Transportation for 38 years and also served his country in the Army National Guard. Joe and Cheryl had a heart for children and were foster parents for about 10 years. Joe served on the board of the Alabama Adoptive Parent Association for several years, was a deacon at First Baptist Church of Slocomb, as well as New Life Baptist Church in Bay Minette, AL and enjoyed singing in the church choir. Joe could be found every Saturday, August through January, from 11:00 am until 11:00 pm, sitting in his recliner enjoying SEC football games. He enjoyed all SEC football games but specifically cheering on the Auburn Tigers-War Eagle! Joe had an unwavering love for his family but most of all for his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
In addition to his parents; James L. Perry, of Shorter; grandparents: Emory and Elizabeth Baker, Lonnie and Gussie Anthony; and special cousin, Richard Baker (Betty Ann) all of Valley preceded him in death.
Joe leaves behind a loving family including his wife, Cheryl Cain Anthony; four daughters: Emmie Anthony, Brianna Anthony, Alisa Coggins, and Renee Bryars-Garrette; son, Michael Kaiser (Teresa); Several grandchildren and great- grandchildren; sisters: Sandra Letson (Bob), Beverly Bass (Mark), and Annette Cox; brothers: Ray Anthony, Emory Perry (Sherry), and Jimmy L. Perry; special friend, Jeremiah Casteel and numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family.
The family would like to thank the caregivers from Day Spring Hospice and the caring staff at Flowers Hospital for the love and care that was shown to Joe.
Joseph Oscar Turner, Jr., known to family and friends as Joey, passed away on December 31, 2025, at the age of 46. He was born on January 18, 1979, in Troy, Alabama.
Joey was preceded in death by his parents, Beverly Turner and Joseph Oscar Turner, Sr. The values they instilled in him—hard work, kindness, and dependability—remained evident throughout his life. Joey was also preceded in death by his sister, Kimberly Turner Hawkins and his aunt, Peggy Haddan.
He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Sabrina Turner; his stepdaughters, Sarah and Mary McBride; his aunt Glenda Varga (Steve); his uncles, Roger Haddan (Nancy), James Turner, Robert Haddan and Jeff Haddan (Teresa); his mother-in-law, Linda Watson; his father-in-law, Jerry Watson (Missy); along with several cousins, extended family members, and many friends.
For over 20 years, Joey worked as a truck driver with Wiley Sanders Trucking. He took pride in his work and was known as a reliable and dedicated employee who valued responsibility and commitment.
Outside of work, Joey enjoyed nature, animals, and traveling. He appreciated the open road and the quiet moments found outdoors. He was always willing to help others and was known for his steady presence and generous spirit.
Joey will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his loyalty to those he loved, and his willingness to lend a hand whenever needed. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A gathering to celebrate Joey’s life will be held from 6:00 pm to 7:00pm on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at Sunset Funeral Home. Family and friends are invited to come together, share memories, and honor his life.
Ronald Lee “Ronnie” Madrie, age 69, of Dothan, Alabama, passed away Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at his residence.
A memorial service will be held at a later time.
Ronnie was born April 10, 1956, in Alabama to Herman Eugene Madrie and Lela Louise Story Madrie. He attended technical college and worked at Dunbarton for a number of years.
Ronnie enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved watching NASCAR, Alabama football, and Atlanta Braves baseball, and he also enjoyed cooking.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Randi Nicole Dinsmore-Lewis, lovingly known as “Monkey”; his brothers, Dennis Madrie and Charles Madrie.
Survivors include his wife of 30 years, Sherry Brannon Madrie; his son, Lee Madrie (April); grandchildren, Ava Wilson, Emma Wilson, AnnaBelle Westbrook (Gavin), Amber Faulkner (Matthew), and Alexander Lewis; great-grandchildren, Andrew Faulkner, Jackson Westbrook, and Evalynn-Grace Westbrook; his brother, James Madrie; his sister, Valerie Fuller;
his father-in-law and close friend, Mr. Jim Brannon as well as several nieces, nephews, and other loving family members and friends.
Nada Sue Delk, a resident of Ashford, Alabama died Friday, January 2, 2026 at her residence. She was 84.
Funeral services for Mrs. Delk will be held at 2 PM Sunday, January 4, 2026 at Liberty Baptist Church with Reverend Jeff Peacock officiating. Burial will follow in Antioch Baptist Church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1 PM until 2 PM prior to the service at Liberty Baptist.
