by Sunset Memorial Park | Dec 26, 2024 | Obituaries
It is with profound respect and affection that we commemorate the life of James Doyle Bond, known lovingly to friends and family as Doyle, who passed away peacefully on December 25, 2024, in Dothan, AL. Doyle, born on November 6, 1935, in the Bay Springs Community, led a life marked by dedication, service, and the joy of human connection.
Doyle’s early years were rooted in the close-knit fabric of his hometown, where he attended Wicksburg High School, laying the foundation for his lifelong commitment to education. His thirst for knowledge and passion for teaching led him to Troy University, from which he graduated with the tools and determination to shape young minds.
Doyle’s professional journey as an educator began at Cottonwood, where his natural leadership skills quickly became evident. He later served at Rehobeth and ascended to the role of Assistant Principal before taking on the responsibilities of Principal at Webb Middle School. His leadership and vision for education were further recognized in 1988 when he was elected Superintendent of Education for Houston County, a position he held with distinction until his retirement in 1992.
Even in retirement, Doyle continued to serve the community he cherished, acting as a board member of the Houston County Board of Education. His commitment to the welfare of the county’s students remained unwavering throughout his life.
A lifelong member of Bay Springs Baptist Church, Doyle’s faith was a cornerstone of his existence. He lived his beliefs through acts of kindness, a compassionate heart, and a willingness to serve others at every opportunity.
Doyle was not only a pillar in the field of education but also a beacon of sociability and warmth. His outgoing nature meant he was often surrounded by friends and loved ones, and his ability to work things in his favor was matched only by his genuine compassion and understanding. An avid follower of political events, Doyle kept his finger on the pulse of the world, always ready with an insightful comment or a thoughtful perspective. Doyle was a fanatical Alabama fan, his passion for the Crimson Tide unmatched by anyone he knew, and he proudly wore his allegiance like a badge of honor every single day.
Family was the bedrock of Doyle’s life. He was a devoted father to his sons, Grant Anthony Bond, Kyle Stewart Bond, and Doyle Eric Bond. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Ryan Anthony Bond (Olivia) and Keller Gracen Bond, who will carry forward his teachings and love. Doyle’s brother, Lynn Bond, along with several nieces and nephews, will hold dear the memory of his steadfast presence and guidance. Doyle was preceded in death by his parents, Johnie J.D. and Ethel Mae Bond, and his brothers, Billy Joe Bond, Johnny Ray Bond and Foster “Bo” Bond.
Doyle’s final days were made comfortable and dignified thanks to the exemplary care and kindness provided by his caregivers, Sandra Hall, Naomi Westbrook, and Danielle Wade, to whom his family extends special thanks.
A celebration of Doyle’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, December 30, 2024 at Bay Springs Baptist Church with Rev. Scott Cox and Rev. Sherrill Tillery officiating. Doyle will be laid to rest in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service.
Serving as pallbearers will be Terrall Barrington, Jon Barnes, Colby Adkinson, Scott Beumer, Bert Woodham and Johnny Champion.
Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com
by Glover Funeral Home | Dec 26, 2024 | Obituaries
Retired SFC Eugene “Barney” Harold Hamric II, a resident of Louisville, Alabama passed away Wednesday, December 25, 2024, at Southeast Health in Dothan, Alabama. He was 70 years old.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. in the chapel of Glover Funeral Home in Eufaula with Rev. Mike Whitman and Rev. Randy Adams officiating and Glover Funeral Home of Eufaula directing. Graveside services with military honors will be held at 12:30 pm CST at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery following the service. A visitation will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home. Flowers will be accepted.
Gene was born June 28, 1954, in Akron, Ohio to the late Eugene Harold Hamric and Betty Darlene Ingram Hamric. He retired after 20 years of service in the United States Army and later worked for Barbour County Sheriff’s Department, Bakerhill Police Department, Clayton Police Department, and retired as Chief of Police from Louisville Police Department. Gene also worked as General Manager at Dollar Tree in Eufaula for several years. He enjoyed a good cup of coffee, collecting police cars and scrap metal, riding his tractor, but most of all he loved his family, especially his grandchildren. Gene was known as a hard worker that was willing to go above and beyond to help anyone in need. His servant’s heart and love for his country and community will be deeply missed by all that knew him. He was a member of Louisville Baptist Church.
He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, John Hamric and Jim Hamric.
Left to cherish his memories are his loving wife of 24 years, Karen Elain Sharpe Hamric; son, Eugene Harold Hamric, III (Crystal) of Jacksonville, Florida; two daughters, Brittnie Robinson (Sean) of Headland, Alabama and Amber Sebo of Phenix City, Alabama; brother, David Hamric (Mary) of Fort Wayne, Indiana; sister, Darlene Blanchard (Steve) of Fort Wayne, Indiana; three grandchildren. Aurora Hamric-Hidalgo, Athena Hamric, and Stetson Robinson.
Honorary pallbearers are Jamey Williams, Henry Miller, Kevin McCauley, Weylin McCraney, and Sam Griffin.
Glover Funeral Home of Eufaula was entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 687-5725. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com
by Glover Funeral Home | Dec 26, 2024 | Obituaries
Doris (Head) Stewart, 93, was called home to Heaven by her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, at Southeast Health Medical Center in Dothan, Alabama. She was a loving mother to two sons and a proud grandma and great-grandma.
A family graveside service will be at 1:00 p.m., Monday, December 30, 2024, at Jefferson Memorial Cemetery in Birmingham. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to, Wesley Place on Honeysuckle, 718 Honeysuckle Road, Dothan, Alabama, 36305.
She was born and reared in Trussville, Alabama. The daughter of William B. and Pearl Head. She was a retired rural mail carrier with the United States Postal Service and she also served as a pastor’s wife for almost 60 years.
She is preceded in death by her husband of more than 59 years, the late Reverend Harry A. Stewart.
Survivors include two sons, Michael Stewart, Fitzgerald, Georgia; Mark (Julie) Stewart, Dothan. Three granddaughters, Elizabeth (Braxton) George and Hannah Stewart, all of Dothan; Dakota Lane Stewart, Fitzgerald; a great-granddaughter, Riley Ann George, Dothan; a niece Lyndall McKay, Alexander City, Alabama; a nephew, William Head, Decatur, Alabama; and a host of great nieces and nephews.
Glover Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 699-3888. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com
by Sorrells Funeral Home | Dec 26, 2024 | Obituaries
Obituary: Mrs. Lounell Lassiter Baxley
Mrs. Lounell Lassiter Baxley of the Fadette Community of Geneva County went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, December 26, 2024. She was 81. Graveside services will be held on Saturday, December 28 at 11:00 a.m. in the New Teamon Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Lee Chorn officiating and Sorrells Funeral Home of Slocomb directing. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday, December 27 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. The family requests that flowers be omitted, and memorial contributions be made to New Teamon Baptist Church Building Fund, 3813 S. County Road 85., Slocomb, AL 36375. Mrs. Baxley was born July 13, 1943, in Geneva County to the late W.C and Elvie May Kirkland Lassiter. Lounell worked at Van Heusen in Hartford and Sony in Dothan for many years. Afterwards, she owned and operated the Flower & Plant Shop in Malvern for over 35 years. Lounell was a talented florist and considered her work to be a ministry to bring encouragement and comfort to others. She was a dedicated woman of faith and member of New Teamon Baptist Church. In addition to her parents, her loving husband of 52 years, Howell Gene Baxley; siblings: Estelle Sawyer, Lewis Lassiter, Sybil Holton, Sheila Mitchell, Larry Lassiter, Rex Lassiter, and Melba Grace Smith, all preceded her in death. Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Tracy and Melissa Baxley; grandchildren: Matthew and Abigail Baxley, and Luke Baxley; siblings: Debra Fowler, Pete Lassiter, and Ricky Lassiter; several brothers-and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.
Sorrells Funeral Home of Slocomb
(334) 886-7777, is in charge of arrangements.
“Because We Care …Is Making A Difference” To sign a guest register, please visit
by Sunset Memorial Park | Dec 26, 2024 | Obituaries
Helen Ruth Taylor, cherished by many for her nurturing spirit and loving heart, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2024, in Graceville, Florida. Born on April 24, 1948, in Pansey, Alabama, to the late Robert and Daisy Watkins, Helen’s life was a testament to her resilience, warmth, and the deep bonds of family.
Helen’s journey began as the beloved daughter of her parents and grew to encompass the roles of a devoted wife, a caring mother, a doting nana, and a dedicated sister. She was the treasured matriarch of a family that revered her, including her son, David Lee Kirkland (Jo Ann), her daughter, Vikki Ruth Cheshire (Jason), her sister, Robbie Watkins Douglas (Bill), and sister in law, Sarah Taylor. Helen’s legacy of love is carried on through her grandchildren Benjamin Martin, Leigh Ann Ditz (Patrick), Judson, and Emma Cheshire, Taylor Cheshire and Stacie Waddell, as well as her eight great-grandchildren, with whom she shared countless cherished moments.
Helen’s family tree was rich and full, with a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and notably, seven double first cousins, who will fondly remember her for her kindness, her laughter, and the wisdom she imparted. They, alongside her extended family and friends, will forever honor Helen’s memory.
Helen was a woman of faith and commitment, as evidenced by her long-standing membership at Cloverdale Baptist Church. After the loss of her beloved husband, Robert Earl Taylor, in 2008, she found solace and support within the congregation of Ridgecrest Baptist Church. There, she continued to nourish her spiritual life, actively participating in several Bible classes, and sharing her light with all those she encountered.
Professionally, Helen’s career was marked by loyalty and excellence. Starting as a teller in 1975 at Dothan Bank and Trust—later known as Regions Bank—Helen’s dedication and hard work saw her rise through the ranks. She retired in 2003 as an administrator assistant to the president of the bank, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and integrity.
Beyond her professional and spiritual commitments, Helen will always be remembered for her “green thumb” and her love for growing things. Her garden was a vibrant tapestry of life that not only brought beauty into the world but also served as a symbol of her ability to nurture and care for all living things. Her passion for gardening was an extension of her nurturing nature, as she cultivated plants with the same tenderness and attention she gave to her family and friends.
Helen’s life was a beautiful blend of her love for her family, her unwavering faith, and her joy in the simple pleasures of life. She approached each day with grace and generosity, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she met. As a wife, she was a partner in the truest sense; as a mother and Nana, she was a beacon of love and guidance; as a sister, she was a confidante and friend; and as a colleague, she was respected and admired.
Though Helen’s presence will be profoundly missed, the memories she created, the lessons she taught, and the love she shared will continue to flourish in the hearts of those who knew her. Her spirit, like the gardens she so lovingly tended, will remain a source of comfort and inspiration.
A service to celebrate Helen’s life will be held on December 28, 2024 at 2:00 pm in Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Dennis Singletary and Rev. Chuck Locke officiating. Helen will be laid to rest beside her husband in Sunset Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 5:00pm-7:00pm Friday evening at Sunset Funeral Home.
Serving as pallbearers are Judson Cheshire, Lamar Watford, Jason Watford, David Sewell, Steve Scott, and Warren Abraham.
Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com
by Sorrells Funeral Home | Dec 26, 2024 | Obituaries
Mrs. Patricia Ann Tolbert (Bowman), previously from Dothan, Alabama, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, December 20, 2024. She was 84. A Graveside Service will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday, December 27, 2024 at the Mt. Gilead Baptist Church Cemetery, Dothan, AL with Rev. Michael Lawson officiating and Sorrells Funeral Home of Slocomb directing. Patsy loved her family very much. She was a member of Mt. Gilead Baptist Church and in earlier years, as her health permitted, enjoyed fellowship with her Sunday School class. She had a soft spot for pets and always was watching redbirds in the yard. Patricia was born June 7, 1940 in Columbus, Ga to the late Clayton C. and Lois (Comer) Bowman. In addition to her husband, Richard of almost 64 years, her parents, and grandson, Elijah Tolbert, all preceded her in death. Survivors include her daughter, Vickie Clearman (Tim) of Johnson City, TN; son, Richard Tolbert, Jr. (Pamela), Dothan; six grandchildren: Amy Rodriguez (Rene), Lori McCarty (Omar), Heather Caster, Ricky Tolbert (Angela), Sarah Jackson (Brandon), and Jessica Flowers (Charles); twenty great grandchildren: Nathan, Noah, Derek, Benjamin, Natalie, John Allen, Zion, Kennedy, Alli, Mia, Nora, Olive, Maille, Declan, Charles, Elijah, Charlotte, Madeline, Katelyn, and Ashlyn. Serving as pallbearers: Richard K. Tolbert III, Tim Clearman, Derek Chandler, Charles Flowers, Brandon Jackson and Chris Forsey. A special thank you to all the wonderful people at Graceville Health Center and Rehab who cared for Patricia.
Sorrells Funeral Home of Slocomb
(334) 886-7777, is in charge of arrangements.
“Because We Care … Is Making A Difference”
To sign a guest register, please visit
www.sorrellsfuneral.com
