OZARK…Mr. Danny C. “Danno” Sigers, a resident of Ozark, died Monday morning, August 18, 2025, at his home. He was 61.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Friday, August 22, 2025, in the Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Roger Howell officiating. Burial will follow in Center Ridge Baptist Church Cemetery, between Ozark and Ariton. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home.
Mr. Sigers was born on January 8, 1964, in the close-knit town of Ariton, Alabama—a place where neighbors felt like family and life moved at a slower, more meaningful pace. He moved to Ozark at a young age, but his roots in Ariton always stayed strong. He graduated from Ariton High School in 1981, proud to be part of a community that shaped him into the hardworking, kind-hearted man so many came to know and love.
For forty years, Mr. Sigers dedicated himself to his work at Quality Fab in Ariton, where he served as a shop foreman. He wasn’t just a leader in title—he was someone people looked up to, someone who led with quiet strength, patience, and a deep sense of responsibility. His work ethic was unmatched, and he took pride in every task, big or small. He built more than just metal structures—he built friendships, trust, and a legacy of dependability that will be remembered for years to come.
Outside of work, Mr. Sigers found joy in the simple things that made life rich. He loved spending time outdoors, especially when he had a fishing pole in hand and the sun on his back. Drag racing brought out his thrill-seeking side, and he could talk for hours about engines, speed, and the rush of competition. But above all, he cherished time with his family. Whether it was a backyard gathering, a quiet evening at home, or cheering on Auburn Football with passion and pride, those moments were his true treasures.
He was the kind of man who didn’t need to say much to make you feel cared for. His presence was steady, his laughter genuine, and his love for those around him ran deep. He was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend—someone who made life better just by being in it.
Mr. Sigers was preceded in death by his father, Charles Maxwell Sigers, his precious granddaughter Amber Cummings, and his beloved sister Chrissie Giles. Though their absence leaves a space that can never be filled, their memories live on in the stories shared, the love passed down, and the strength of the family he helped build.
His life was a testament to loyalty, love, and the kind of everyday kindness that leaves a lasting mark. Mr. Sigers will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to shine through the lives of those who knew him best.
Surviving relatives include his wife of forty-four years Debbie Giles Sigers, Ozark; daughter, Tracy Lomanack (Thomas), Echo Community; two sons, Marshall Childree (Felicia) and Raymond Childree (Aaron), all of Ozark; mother, Jeanette Sanders Kohler, Ozark; three sisters, Teresa Pierce (Ray), Birmingham, Ruby Russell, Dothan, and Denise Adkins (Dewayne), Prattville; brother, Mack Sigers (Trudy), Ariton, brother-in-law, Ronnie Giles (Amy), Ozark; eight grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren; his beloved dog, Roxie; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
Dr. John Richard Bland, a resident of Eufaula, Alabama, passed away Sunday, August 17, 2025, at Flowers Hospital in Dothan, Alabama. He was 77 years old.
John was born on October 27, 1947, in Lakeland, Florida, to the late John David and Helen Bryan Bland. He obtained a master’s and bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida and a doctorate’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. John worked as a Clinical Psychologist for the Department of Justice Bureau of Prisons and for the Veterans Administration Hospital in Pineville, Louisiana. He enjoyed boating, fishing, cooking and yard work.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
Left to cherish his memories are his loving wife of 22 years, Valerie Ann Bland and a brother-in-law, Rodney Dalton.
Glover Funeral Home of Eufaula was entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 687-5725. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com
Chelsea Lorraine Merritt Marlowe, age 59, of Dothan, passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2025.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Fowler Family Funeral Home.
Born on October 30, 1965, in Connecticut, Chelsea was the daughter of Roland Merritt and Hermayne Nault Merritt. She enjoyed swimming, spending time at the beach, shopping, and most of all, visiting with her children and grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her father.
Left to cherish her memory are her sons, Jeremy Abbott and Tyler Doyle; her daughter, Kristen Merritt (Adam Adam); grandchildren, Onri and Jaleigh Abbott; her mother Hermayne Merritt; brothers, Ronnie Merritt (Heather) and Jeff Merritt; and her sister, Melissa Merritt.
Chelsea will be remembered for her love of family and the joy she found in life’s simple moments.
Chelsea Lorraine Merritt Marlowe, age 59, of Dothan, passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2025.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Fowler Family Funeral Home.
Born on October 30, 1965, in Connecticut, Chelsea was the daughter of Roland Merritt and Hermayne Nault Merritt. She enjoyed swimming, spending time at the beach, shopping, and most of all, visiting with her children and grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her father.
Left to cherish her memory are her sons, Jeremy Abbott and Tyler Doyle; her daughter, Kristen Merritt (Adam Adam); grandchildren, Onri and Jaleigh Abbott; her mother Hermayne Merritt; brothers, Ronnie Merritt (Heather) and Jeff Merritt; and her sister, Melissa Merritt.
Chelsea will be remembered for her love of family and the joy she found in life’s simple moments.
Gary Patterson, 57, passed away on August 17, 2025 after a battle with cancer.
Born on July 15, 1968, in Montgomery, Alabama, Gary spent much of his life between Dothan and Rockford. He found joy in being near the water and especially cherished time spent fishing with friends and family.
He was preceded in death by his father, James Leon “Jim” Patterson. He is survived by his mother, Gale Reynolds Lee; sons Travis (Jen Miller) and Taylor (Tori Duncan); grandchildren Hollie, Kenleigh Grace, Kason, Mavis, Ellie Maeand Shane; sister Shelli; as well as many beloved cousins and friends.
In accordance with Gary’s wishes, no formal services will be held. In lieu of flowers, he requested that those wishing to honor his memory consider donating to their local blood bank or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
May his memory bring a smile to those who knew him.
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA…Mr. Alex Parker, Jr., a resident of Tallahassee, Florida, 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.
A complete obituary will be announced by Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark.
Dorothy Kay Payne White, a beloved mother, devoted wife, and compassionate nurse, passed away at her home in Midland City, Alabama, on August 16, 2025, at the age of 62. Born on May 7, 1963, in Skipperville, Alabama, Dorothy’s life was marked by an unwavering dedication to her family, her patients, and her community.
Dorothy was the cherished daughter of the late Kenneth Earl and Evelyn Gladys Payne. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Annie Catherine Thompson and Betty Jo Payne, and her brother-in-law, Wesley Dean Williams, Jr. Dorothy’s legacy of love and caring is carried on by her devoted husband of 20 years, George White, and her loving children, son Brandon Miller (Amy Sutton), daughters Morgan Miller (Josh Roberts) and Cierra White. Her joy was multiplied by her adoring grandchildren, Oliva, Kylen Grace, Cooper, Zeke, Jayden, Jackie, Alexis, and Hunter, who will miss her deeply. She is also survived by her dedicated sister, Glenda Faye Williams and a host of nieces and nephews. Dorothy’s affection extended to her animal companions, her dogs Lou, Gracie, Axle, and her bird, Spike, who were her cherished babies.
Dorothy’s formative years were spent in Skipperville, where she graduated from G.W. Long High School in 1981. She went on to earn her nursing degree from Wallace Community College, a testament to her lifelong commitment to caring for others. For 30 years, Dorothy served as a nurse at Southeast Health, where she was known for her exceptional skills and compassionate bedside manner. She was medically retired but continued to hold a special place in the hearts of her colleagues and patients. Dorothy’s adventurous spirit led her to work as a travel nurse for several years, bringing her care and empathy to patients far and wide.
Those who knew Dorothy will fondly remember her vibrant personality and her passion for life. An avid Alabama Football fan, she never missed an opportunity to cheer on her favorite team. Dorothy celebrated every holiday, with Halloween and Christmas holding a special place in her heart. Her love for Disney was unmatched, and she found joy in the magic of its stories and characters. Dorothy’s love for the outdoors shone through her enthusiasm for camping, where she spent time with her family. She especially enjoyed traveling, and the few cruises she took were treasured experiences, as she loved exploring new places and creating lasting memories.
Dorothy’s generous spirit was evident in her unwavering desire to help others. She touched countless lives through her work and her natural inclination to extend a helping hand whenever needed. Her absence will be felt deeply by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she brightened with her warmth and kindness.
A celebration of Dorothy’s life will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at Sunset Funeral Home with Rev. Jackie Downing officiating. Entombment will follow in Sunset Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time.
Dr. John Richard Bland, a resident of Eufaula, Alabama, passed away Sunday, August 17, 2025, at Flowers Hospital in Dothan, Alabama. He was 77 years old.
