With heavy hearts but deep gratitude for a life filled with faith, love, and service, we announce the passing of Janice Morgan, who went home to be with her Lord on July 2, 2025, at the age of 86.
Janice lived her life as a shining example of grace, compassion, and unwavering faith. A devout Christian, she carried her love for God in her heart and shared it freely with everyone she met. Her prayers were constant, her faith unshakable, and her spirit endlessly generous.
For many years, Janice dedicated her life to education, shaping young minds and nurturing tender hearts as a beloved teacher. To her students, she wasn’t just an educator–she was a mentor, cheerleader, and often, a second mother. Her classroom was a safe haven where every child felt seen, heard, and deeply valued.
Beyond her professional calling, Janice was a devoted mother, a cherished aunt, and a steadfast friend. Family meant everything to her. She poured love and encouragement into the lives of those she held dear, always offering a listening ear, warm embrace, or wise counsel at just the right moment. Her home was a gathering place filled with laughter, love, and the aroma of her famous home-cooked meals.
Janice’s generosity knew no limits. While through acts of service, heartfelt letters, or quiet prayers whispered for others, she constantly found ways to bless those around her. Her loving demeanor and radiant smile left a lasting impression on all who crossed her path.
In her church community, she was a source of both strength and comfort. Whether working in the nursery, volunteering at events, or simply offering kind words and encouragement. Janice lived her faith out loud—always pointing others toward hope, love, and grace.
She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, faith, and unconditional love that will live on in her family, friends, former students, and all who were privileged to know her.
A celebration of Janice’s beautiful life will be held at Searcy Funeral Home and Crematory on Thursday, July 3, 2025, with a visitation at 1:00 PM followed by a service at 2:00 PM. Burial will follow in Meadowlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Enterprise City Schools Special Projects Center, P.O. Box 311790, Enterprise, AL 36331-1790.
Janice was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Elsie Grimes; her husband, Thadius William Morgan; and a daughter, Cornelia Anne Morgan.
Survivors include her son, Thadius William Morgan Jr., and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
You may sign the register book or send condolences to the family at our website: www.searcyfuneralhome.com.
Billy Ray Sewell, known affectionately as Ray to his friends and family, passed away unexpectedly on June 28, 2025, in Pooler, GA, at the age of 63.
Born on July 2, 1961, in Dothan, Billy Ray was the beloved son of Billy Earl Sewell and Lennie Clark Sewell. A graduate of Ashford High School, Billy Ray carried with him the lessons and friendships he made there throughout his life. He was a man of many interests, but perhaps none so passionate as his love for Alabama football. Game days were sacred, and his enthusiasm was infectious.
Billy Ray’s zest for life was evident in his love for joyriding, often taking his beloved Susan on excursions that would lead to unexpected adventures and cherished memories. His leisure time was often spent in the comfort of his home, where he enjoyed watching television and playing games on his phone, always ready to challenge family members to a friendly match.
Above all, Billy Ray was a family man. His happiest moments were those spent surrounded by his loved ones, whether it was a boisterous family dinner, a quiet evening at home, or cheering from the stands at his grandchildren’s sporting events. His presence was a source of stability and joy, and his guidance was sought after and deeply respected.
He was a devoted husband to his wife, Susan Sewell, and a loving father to his son, Steven Smith (Michelle), and daughter, Stephanie Hanks. Billy Ray’s joy was multiplied by his six grandchildren, who were the apples of his eye. His parents, Billy Earl Sewell (Lynda) and Lennie Sewell also survive him and he was a cherished brother to Vickie Massey (Dean) and James Sewell (Zanna). Billy Ray is also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and numerous friends. Although his grandparents and his sister-in-law Becky Dunn predeceased him, the memories they shared continue to be celebrated by the family.
Billy Ray’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and the importance of family. He lived his life with a generous heart and an open door, always ready to welcome friends and family into his home. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his spirit will continue to live on in the stories told and the memories cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Funeral services for Billy Ray will be held at 2 PM, Saturday, July 5, 2025 at Ward Wilson Funeral Home with Brother S. E. Newberry and Reverend Tony Welch officiating. The family will receive friends from 1 PM until 2 PM, prior to the service at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to your favorite charity.
Michael George Harris, affectionately known as Mickey to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025, in Jakin, Georgia, just a week shy of his 71st birthday. Born on July 8, 1954, in the vibrant country of Panama, Mickey’s journey through life was marked by dedication, love, and an unwavering sense of adventure.
Mickey’s early years were spent in the lush landscapes of his birthplace before he answered the call of duty and went to serve in the United States Coast Guard after high school. His service to the nation was a source of immense pride and instilled in him a deep sense of discipline and commitment. Upon his return to civilian life, he embarked on a distinguished career with the City of Dothan, where he eventually retired as the Transportation Mechanic Director. His colleagues remember him not only for his expertise but also for his camaraderie and warmth.
Mickey’s life was a tapestry of deep relationships and cherished moments. He was a loving husband to his wife of 30 years, Judy Johnson. He is also survived by his children, Jimmy Harris, Mary Harris, Katie Keel, and Tanya Johnson Leonard, and a grandfather to five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
His brother, Marshall Harris, along with Marshall’s wife, Tracey, fondly recall Mickey’s infectious laughter and his ability to light up any room he entered. The Harris family reunions will surely miss his presence, as will the memories of his late brother, John Harris, who predeceased him.
Mickey’s zest for life extended beyond his family and career. An avid golfer, he could often be found on the greens, perfecting his swing and enjoying the camaraderie of fellow golf enthusiasts. His love for the outdoors was evident in his countless boating excursions on Lake Seminole, where he was a familiar and welcome sight. Those who shared these moments with him will cherish the memories of the sunsets they watched and the gentle waves they rode alongside a man who truly lived life to the fullest.
Mickey’s legacy is one of joy, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved. His absence will be deeply felt by all who were fortunate enough to know him, but his spirit will continue to inspire and guide his family, friends, and all who were touched by his generous heart.
A celebration of Mickey’s life will be held at a later date.
Tony Edward Bloodsworth of New Brockton, AL, passed away Monday, June 30, 2025 at his home. He was 74.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, July 5, 2025 at Searcy Funeral Home and Crematory Chapel with Rev. Jared Stanley and Rev. Tim Beasock officiating. Burial will follow in McGee Cemetery with Searcy Funeral Home and Crematory directing. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until service time.
Tony was preceded in death his father Rex Bloodsworth and mother Pauline Sipper; stepfather, Edgar Sipper; daughter, Sharon Davis; grandson, Tryston Whitley; brother, James Sipper; nephew, Allen Tice.
Survivors include his wife Diane Bloodsworth; son, Anthony Lee Bloodsworth (Angel); grandson, Tyler Bloodsworth (Cassidi); two great-grandsons, Jaxyn Whitley, Dean Bloodsworth; three granddaughters, Kayleigh, Addison, Mackenzie; two sisters, Martha Frausto, (Oscar), Dot Cochran (Jerry); sister in law, Doris Sipper; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.
Cynthia “Cindy” Martinez, a beacon of kindness and friendliness, passed away on July 2, 2025, at the age of 59. Born on July 17, 1965, in Ponce De Leon, Florida, Cindy grew up under the loving care of her parents, Ada Clara Brown and Heyward Lynn Johnston. Her life was a tapestry of warm relationships and creative pursuits, woven with the threads of love, art, and family.
Cindy’s journey led her to the Art Institute in Ft Lauderdale, Florida, where she cultivated her passion for the arts. Her creativity was not just limited to her studies but spilled over into every aspect of her life, especially in her love for cooking. She had a special talent for baking sweets and cakes, which brought joy to many and made any gathering a memorable one.
After meeting her beloved husband, Antonio Martinez, in Florida, the two embarked on a new chapter together. Their love blossomed, and in 2011, they decided to move to Dothan, Alabama, to be closer to Cindy’s parents.
Cindy’s gentle spirit and warm heart touched everyone she met. She is survived by her devoted husband, Antonio, with whom she shared a life full of love and partnership. Her legacy lives on through her children, Hunter Jack Rivers, Wyatt Jesse Rivers, and Deseree Dawn Martinez, who will carry forward the values and lessons she instilled in them. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren will grow up hearing tales of their grandmother’s kindness and the love she had for her family.
Her brother, Fredrick Joe Johnston, remembers Cindy as not just a sibling but a lifelong friend. Their bond was one of mutual respect and deep affection, a testament to the strength of family ties.
Cindy’s best friends, Sandy Barentine and Gina Mia Donorfo, were her confidants and partners in laughter. Their friendship was a source of comfort and joy throughout her life, and they will cherish the memories of the times they shared.
Cindy’s impact on the world was marked by her gentle demeanor and her readiness to lend a hand or a listening ear. She was the epitome of what it means to be kind and friendly, always putting others before herself and spreading warmth wherever she went.
As we bid farewell to Cynthia “Cindy” Martinez, we celebrate her life and the love she gave so freely. Her memory will be treasured, her presence missed, and her spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. Cindy’s journey through life was one of purpose, joy, and an unwavering commitment to her family and friends. Her story is not one of an end but a beautiful legacy that will endure in the hearts of all who loved her.
A memorial gathering will be held on Monday, July 7, 2025 at 2pm in the Sunset Memorial Park Parlors where the family will share their favorite memories with Cindy.
OZARK…Mattie Lantz, a resident of Ozark, died Sunday morning, June 29, 2025, in Coffee County. She was 21.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, July 5, 2025, from 10:00 until 11:00 A.M. at Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.
Mattie was a native of Ozark, Alabama, where she attended Ozark City Schools. For over a year, Mattie worked as a Deli Associate at Walmart in Enterprise. She was known for her kindness, her strong work ethic, and the way she made customers feel welcome—always greeting them with a cheerful “hello” and taking pride in doing her job well. Her coworkers remember her not only for her dependability but for her laughter that could lighten even the busiest days.
Outside of work, Mattie found joy in the little things that made life meaningful to her. She loved video games—not just as a hobby, but as a way to explore new worlds and share time with her friends. She enjoyed going thrift shopping, hanging out with friends, and playing games. Her heart belonged to her pets, who were her constant companions. Caring for them came naturally, a reflection of the deep compassion that defined her. That same love inspired her dream of becoming a veterinarian. She had a soft spot for animals, especially dogs, and often talked about one day opening her own animal clinic where no creature would be turned away.
Mattie’s life, though far too short, was rich in love, laughter, and kindness. She was preceded in death by her beloved grandparents, Ana Lantz, Paul Lantz, Bobbie Boudreaux, and Terry Carter.
She will be remembered not just for the things she did, but for the way she made others feel—loved, accepted, and seen. Her absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but her memory lives on in every life she touched.
Surviving relatives include her father, Timothy Thomas Lantz, Ozark and her mother, Terri Ann Carter, Magnolia, Texas; two sisters, Samantha Lantz and Destiny Kimbro, both of Ozark; niece, Althea Rionne Kimbro; nephew, Theodore Makaveli Hudson; aunts, Marisol Lantz and Ana Lantz; cousins, Asia Lantz, Ivory Kirkley, and Alejandro Carpentero; best friend, Jessica Parker.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
