MARVIN JACKSON NEWMAN
Gulf Shores, AL
January 23, 1954 – August 19, 2025
Dear Family and Friends,
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Marvin J. Newman, who went to be with Jesus on Tuesday, August 19, 2025. Marvin passed away at Baptist Hospital in Pensacola at the age of 71.
Marvin was diagnosed with lung cancer last September. Despite a courageous fight, he ultimately succumbed to severe pneumonia and heart congestion due to chemotherapy treatments. Throughout his battle, he maintained an optimistic spirit, often saying, “Everything is going to be OK.”
Born on January 23, 1954, in Dothan, AL, Marvin faced early challenges, losing both his parents at a young age. He was the youngest of seven children and the only boy. He and his sister, Diane, were lovingly raised by their mother’s cousin in Dothan, while his other sisters were raised at an orphanage in Troy, Alabama.
Marvin’s impressive career in the newspaper industry began at 19 as a copy boy at the Dothan Eagle. He quickly advanced, becoming the youngest publisher in The Thompson Newspaper Group. His publishing journey took him to the Dalton Newspaper in Georgia, the Enterprise Ledger in Alabama, and eventually back to the Dothan Eagle. In 1993, he was honored to be named Alabama Group Publisher, overseeing newspapers in Dothan, Auburn-Opelika, Enterprise, and Marianna, Florida. He was known for his energetic motto, “We are moving on a very fast train and if you don’t jump on board, you will be left at the station. Let’s all jump on board.” In 1996, Marvin and Sheila moved to Benton, AR, where he became publisher of the Benton Courier and launched its Sunday edition. Two years later, they moved to Virginia, where he was Advertising Director at the Progress Index and published the Hopewell News. After 31 dedicated years, Marvin retired from newspapers in 2004 and moved to Orange Beach, AL.
In Orange Beach, Marvin continued to contribute to his community, working for the City at the Sportsplex and as manager of the Orange Beach Golf Course grounds until his final retirement in 2017. He was a dedicated partner to Sheila, assisting with her wedding business and working alongside her at The Wharf Catering.
Marvin was deeply involved in his community. He served on the board of Southtrust Bank, was a member of The Lions Club in Dothan, and coached his sons, Derrick and Kris’ baseball teams. He enjoyed bowling, playing on a church softball team, and, most of all, golf. He cherished playing in golf tournaments and was fortunate to play with syndicated columnist Lewis Grizzard. He occasionally had lunch with Mike Huckabee and received Christmas cards from President Bill & Hillary Clinton during their time in Arkansas.
Marvin was preceded in death by his mother, Ada Mae Douglass Newman; his father, Marvin Clayton Newman; his adoptive parents, William Jefferson and Mary Pittman Douglass; his granddaughter Maci Granger; four sisters: Jeanette Douglass, Liz Weldon, Betty Newman, and Carolyn Hammock; and his father-in-law, Reverend Charles Mims.
Marvin is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Sheila Mims Newman, and their four children: Derrick (Tiffany) of Fairhope, AL; Kristi Deatherage (Beau) of Dothan, AL; Lori Granger (John) of Enterprise, AL; and Kristopher Taylor (Meagan) of Elberta, AL. He was also a proud grandfather to Emma, Kendyle, Colier, Layla, Bryant, Konner, Levi, and Kohlson. He is also survived by his sisters, Diane Newman Pelham (Joe) and Martha Sue Andrews of Dothan, brother Bill Douglass (Robbie); a very special niece, Amanda Whiddon, and a dear mother-in-law, Etoice Reed Mims Thomas (Robert) of Pensacola.
Funeral Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, September 5, 2025, at Orange Beach United Methodist Church, 28751 Canal Road, Orange Beach, AL 36561, with Pastor Alan McBride and Reverend Ken Johnson officiating. Interment will follow at Mile Marker 158 at The Wharf in Orange Beach.
A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Butters and the nurses at Baptist Hospital for doing everything they could.
Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers for Marvin and the family.
Louis (Lou) Edwin Boothe, age 86, of Dothan, loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, was peacefully called home to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Tuesday evening August 19, 2025, at his residence.
Louis was born in Boothton, AL, a coal mining community in Shelby County, where he spent his early years near the Cahaba River. In 1953, his family moved to Dothan. Shortly after, Louis accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and was baptized at Headland Ave Baptist Church. His family later moved to Napier Field, where he graduated from Midland City High School in 1958. He continued his education at Troy State University. Louis was a kind, loving, humble man, with a humorous side that few realized. He loved his family dearly and was a good, loyal friend to many. He was a faithful member of Curtis Memorial United Methodist church for many years and Ridgecrest Baptist Church since the 80’s, where he taught Sunday school with wife Becky until his health declined. Louis worked for the U.S. Government at Fort Rucker, AL for 35 years, eventually becoming the manager of the Directorate of Information Management, which is responsible for managing the installation’s information technology resources. This involved overseeing technology that supported Fort Rucker’s information requirements and the personnel and equipment that managed it. His hobbies included being an Alabama Crimson Tide fan, watching movies, reading, and keeping up with technology. He would spend many hours on his computer in his later years until Alzheimer’s took that joy from him.
Louis was preceded in death by his mother, Kathleen Boothe Grubbs, brothers Roy and James Grubbs, sister Joan Harris, sister-in-law Jeannie Hardy McDaniel (Gilbert), sister-in-law Ailene Hardy Anderson (Gene), brother-in-law Earl Hardy (Rosemary), nephew Gordy Hardy, and niece Shirley Andrews.
Louis is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Sarah Rebecca (Becky) Hardy Boothe, son, Louis Edwin (Eddie) Boothe Jr. of Eufaula AL, granddaughter Carmen (Josh) Chapman of Trussville AL and grandson Casey (Kaitlyn) Boothe of Kalispell MT, great grandchildren Jackson Chapman and Adeline Boothe, brother Robert Grubbs of Dothan, sister-in-law Judy Grubbs of Ormond Beach, FL, nephews Don Anderson of Austin TX, Lewron (Kathy) McDaniel of Decatur GA, Craig (Susan) Cole of Grantville GA, Chris (Alice) Cole of Winchester CA, nieces Cyntha (Bobby) Harrell of Ormond Beach FL, Michelle (Jason ) Cantrell of Newton, Allyson (Chad) Mims of Dothan, April (Jeff) Perez of Leesburg GA, great niece, Amy McDaniel of Decatur GA, and great nephew Phillip McDaniel of Decatur GA.
A funeral service to celebrate his life will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Tim Willis and Danny Mallory officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 2 p.m. to share memories and honor the legacy of a man who will be deeply missed. A private family graveside service will be held at Beulah Baptist cemetery.
The family would like to thank the staff of Gentiva hospice and all of our precious family, friends, neighbors, and sitters for their love and support over the years and especially over the last few months.
Deborah “Debbie” Nelson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, went home to be with her Savior on the afternoon of August 20, 2025, at the age of 71. Surrounded by her cherished family and dearest friends, Debbie peacefully entered into eternal rest, completing her earthly journey with the same grace and faith that defined her life.
Debbie was the devoted wife of Robert “Bob” Nelson for 49 beautiful years. She was preceded in death by her loving parents, George and Dora Trivett, and leaves behind a legacy of love and faith.
She is survived by her brothers, Randy (Lee) Trivett and Tim (Laurie) Trivett; her son, Ronald Nelson (Monica); and her daughter, Tracy Sawyer (John). Debbie’s life was joyfully enriched by her grandchildren: Zack (Whitley), Rachel (Talgat), Press, Rebecca, Morgan, Barrett, Kristen, Josh, and Will-Hart. She also delighted in her great-grandchildren: Jules, Max, Luka, and Liam, each of whom brought her immeasurable joy.
Debbie was blessed with a circle of unwavering friendship, especially her lifelong friends Jackie and Cleveland Pope, who stood faithfully by her side throughout her journey.
A faithful member of Harvest Church, Debbie was known for her servant’s heart, warm hospitality, and her special gift for making everyone feel welcome. Whether it was preparing a meal for a large gathering or offering a kind word to a stranger, Debbie lived out her faith in quiet, powerful ways that touched countless lives.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers of Amedisys and Dayspring Hospice, whose support and kindness brought comfort during Debbie’s final days.
A private celebration of Debbie’s life will be held at a later date.
Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in the knowledge that Debbie is now in the presence of her Savior, and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind will live on in all who were blessed to know and love her.
Thomas “Tommy” Carter Parker, a resident of Dothan, died Sunday, August 17, 2025 at Flowers Hospital following a brief illness. He was 62.
The family will receive friends at a memorial visitation from 3 PM until 5 PM Saturday, August 23, 2025 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family.
Tommy was born April 9, 1963 in Dothan, Alabama to the late Joe Brack and Frances LaVelle Gentle Parker. He was raised in the Taylor and Rehobeth area and was a 1981 graduate of Rehobeth High School. He worked for Carpetland for over 25 years where he made great relationships with his customers. Tommy had a love of music and shooting pool, where he won several championships, and Alabama Crimson Tide football. He also enjoyed the outdoors arrowhead hunting, Indian artifacts and deep-sea fishing.
Tommy is preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Phillip and Timmy Parker.
Survivors include his daughters, Abbie Vickers (Martin), Bonnie Parker-Smith (Colten); grandchildren, Archer and August; brother, Frankie Parker and two sisters in law, Stephanie Parker and Jill Parker, along with several nieces and nephews, and the mother of his children, Laurie Allgood Parker.
TUMBLETON… Dorothy “Dot” Shelley Hardy, a resident of the Tumbleton Community of Henry County, Alabama, near Headland passed away Tuesday morning, August 19, 2025, at her home. She was 101.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, August 23, 2025, at New Zion Free Will Baptist Church, with Reverend Joey Pettis and Reverend Tim McCraney officiating. Serving as pallbearers will be her grandsons. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M. Friday evening, August 22, 2025, at Wright Funeral Home & Crematory. Wright Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.
Flowers will be accepted, or memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Dot’s honor to the New Zion Free Will Baptist Church Building Fund, 9716 CR-99, Headland, Alabama 36345.
Mrs. Dot was born on July 4th, 1924, to the late Grover “Pomp” Cleveland Shelley and Queenie Bradshaw Shelley. Because of her birthday, her father nicknamed her his “little Firecracker Baby” and she lived up to it well! She attended Tumbleton School and Headland High School and was known to be a very good basketball player. She worked on the farm in her earlier years. Always determined, she once picked an entire bale of cotton in a week just to prove to herself and others that SHE could do it! She was a devoted member of the New Zion Free Will Baptist Church in Tumbleton.
She was also a fantastic cook! There was something extra special about going to eat summer dinner at her house. Fried chicken, freshly picked vegetables, and some types of cobbler were favorite menu items. And who could forget her sweet tea…three generations of grandchildren have walked into her house asking for “Granny Tea”.
She was definitely blessed with a “green thumb”. She was known throughout the Tumbleton Community for driving her golf cart around the yard to water her beautiful flowers. Passers-by were greeted with a wave and a warm smile as she tended to her yard or picked up pecans.
Mrs. Dot loved her family, and we loved her; knowing that the Lord surely blessed us in a special way by allowing us to be led by such a remarkable matriarch for more years than most. During her brief illness, her house was filled with family and friends. There were tears, but there was also love, laughter, and special memories shared with one another. She made this world a better place and our family is surely better for having been nurtured by such a wonderful lady. Her fiery spirit, kind heart, gentleness and strength live on in each of us.
In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband of sixty-seven years, L.J. Hardy; her son, Jerry Hardy; her granddaughter, Dawn Hardy Lewis; her son-in-law, John Allen Skipper; her great-great-granddaughter, Cylann Dawn Hicks; her sisters, Ida Pearl Shelley Wilson and Nina Jo Shelley Killingsworth; her brothers, Cleveland Shelley, Jr., Jack Shelley, Shelby Earl Shelley, and William Major Shelley.
Leaving to cherish her memories are her daughters, Judy Hardy Skipper and Zelda Hardy Oates (Wyatt); her son, Kyle Hardy (Dianne); daughter-in-law, Colleen Hardy; her sister-in-law, Janelle Shelley; her grandchildren; Neal Hardy, Jill Skipper Albert (Todd), Kylie Hardy (Tasha), Janie Skipper Hutto (Thomas), Adam Hardy (Amanda), Jeffrey Hardy (Brandi), Josh Oates (Jenna), Jarrod Oates (Heather), and Jay Skipper (Jamie); her grandson-in-law, George Lewis; her twenty-two great-grandchildren; her seven great-great-grandchildren; her numerous special nieces and nephews; and her sitters, Michele Apida, Margo Apida, JoAnn Culp, Patsy Barron, and Jean Grider. A very special thank you to Enhabit Hospice for their service.
Carolyn Betty (Stanberry) Johnson, a resident of Gordon, passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at her daughter’s residence in Webb, following an extended illness.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 22, 2025, at Webb Baptist Church Cemetery with Pastor Todd Thorpe officiating and Glover Funeral Home of Dothan directing.
Flowers will be accepted.
Carolyn was born on September 23, 1943, in Lakeland, Florida, to the late Floyd V. & Jenny Sara Holcomb Stanberry. She spent the early years of her life there and later moved to Houston County in 1965. Carolyn worked for many years in the textile industry as a machine operator. She was of Baptist faith.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Van Johnson Jr.; her daughter, Kathy Lynn Honea; her grandchildren, Jennifer Dawn Gibson, and Christopher Honea; her son-in-law, James Barrentine; her sisters, Coreen Blount, and Clonia Brady; and her brother, Charles Stanberry.
She is survived by her three daughters, Carolyn Ann Gibson (Harry), Mary Louise Barrentine, and Cynthia Diane Lane; her seven grandchildren, James D. Gibson (Charity), Stephen W. Barrentine (Carrie Linkous), Michael Barrentine (Hayley Morrell), Brandon Johnson (Heather), Blake Honea, Nicholas North (Kayla), and Tyler Shortsleeve (Beverly), 15 great-grandchildren, Jackson Daniel Gibson, Sophia Barrentine, Harper Barrentine, Vera Barrentine, Patricia Linkous, Miracle Linkous, Kinley North, Annette North, Justin Geitz, Emma Shortsleeve, Zane Shortsleeve, Xaiver Shortsleeve, Zander Shortsleeve, Becka Jackson, and Bella Jackson.
Serving as pallbearers, James Gibson, Harry Gibson, Stephen Barrentine, and Tyler Shortsleeve.
Glover Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 699-3888. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com
MARVIN JACKSON NEWMAN
