Shirley Gail Blair of Daleville, Alabama, passed away Friday, August 8, 2025 at her home. She was 68.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM, Thursday, August 14, 2025 at Searcy Funeral Home & Crematory Chapel with Rev. Randy Heddings officiating. Burial will follow in First Baptist Church of Level Plains Cemetery with Searcy Funeral Home and Crematory directing. The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM until service time at the funeral home.
Shirley had a deep love for animals, especially her goats and dogs, who brought her immense joy. Her connection to the outdoors was something that filled her life with peace. Whether it was a walk through the woods or a quiet moment on her porch, she cherished every opportunity to be outside.
Known for her warmth and kindness, Shirley also enjoyed spending time with family, creating memories that will be treasured forever. Shopping was one of her favorite pastimes, where she found joy not only in the things she picked but in the time spent with loved ones.
Survivors include her husband, Raymon Blair, Daleville, AL; son, Zac Blair (Jennifer), Milton, FL; two grandchildren, Shelby Blair, Pensacola, FL; Sierra Oglesbee, Milton, FL; two brothers, Jimmy Waters (Gloria), Enterprise, AL; Wilfred Waters (Towanda), Georgia; two nephews, Todd Waters, Enterprise, AL; Brent Waters (Mandy), Enterprise, AL; two great nephews, Josh Waters and Cade Waters; great niece, Shani Waters; two great-great nephews, Stetson and Hudson Waters.
You may sign the register book or send condolences to the family at our website: www.searcyfuneralhome.com.
Elizabeth Dorinda Van Loo, known affectionately to friends and family as Dorinda, passed away on August 10, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on January 21, 1939, in the vibrant city of New Orleans, LA, Dorinda was a beloved figure whose warmth and kindness touched the hearts of many.
Dorinda was the cherished daughter of the late Owen and Audrey Downes, and she carried with her the spirit and vivacity of her hometown throughout her life. After moving to Dothan, AL in 1977, she became a pillar of the community, enriching the lives of those around her through her work and her generous spirit.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 63 years, Joseph A. Van Loo, Jr., with whom she shared a life full of love and partnership. Together, they raised three wonderful children, Joseph Van Loo, III (Ann), Jennifer Segers, and Dorinda “Dee” Capella (Frank). Dorinda was a proud grandmother to Evan Capella, Jonah Capella, Anthony Van Loo, Christian Van Loo, Holton Van Loo, and Thatcher Van Loo, each of whom brought immense joy and pride to her life.
Dorinda’s academic achievements were a testament to her intellect and dedication. She graduated from Loyola University New Orleans and went on to obtain her PhD from Tulane University. Her passion for education led her to a distinguished career at Troy State University, where she served as a full professor and chair of the humanities department until her retirement in 2014. She also became a licensed professional counselor and volunteered her services with Catholic Charities.
Throughout her life, Dorinda was an active member of St. Columba Catholic Church, where she served as a Lector and Eucharistic Minister. Her faith was a cornerstone of her existence, and she found great fulfillment in participating in the church’s activities and services. She was a devoted member of the Carmelite Community in Panama City.
Dorinda’s interests were as varied as they were rich. She had an enduring bond with her students and with individuals who sought her guidance and support. Her love for games like Rummikub, solitaire, and slot machines provided endless hours of enjoyment and friendly competition. A voracious reader, she acquired an extensive library of spiritual books that reflected her deep and abiding faith.
Known for her impeccable taste, Dorinda had an eye for jewelry and clothing, and she relished the experience of shopping for these treasures. Her love for the Christmas season was evident in the care and creativity with which she decorated multiple Christmas trees, each a sparkling testament to her joy and enthusiasm for the holiday.
Traveling, especially on a Catholic pilgrimage to the holy lands of Rome and Israel, was among the experiences she treasured most. These journeys were not only adventures but also profound spiritual explorations that enriched her faith and worldview.
Dorinda’s love for the cuisine of her native New Orleans never waned, and she savored the flavors of New Orleans food throughout her life. Above all, Dorinda was kind. It was a word that encapsulated her essence and the way she moved through the world. She gave of herself freely and without reservation, and her legacy is one of compassion, education, faith, and love—a legacy that will continue to inspire and influence all who knew her.
Elizabeth Dorinda Van Loo’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with devotion to her family, her students, her faith, and her community. She will be profoundly missed, yet her spirit will live on in the countless lives she touched.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at Saint Columba Catholic Church Chapel with Father Gallagher officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions in Dorinda’s honor to be made to Little Sister of the Poor Mobile, https://littlesistersofthepoormobile.org/donate/ or Catholic Charities.
Obituary from Holman Funeral Home of Ozark – Ozark, Alabama
Ms. Tammy Louise Ward Lewis, a resident of Ozark, died Friday, August 8, 2025, in Flowers Hospital. She was 55 years old. In keeping with the wishes of the family, there are no public services planned for Ms. Lewis. Holman Funeral Home of Ozark has been entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences may be expressed at www.HolmanFuneralHome.com
Ms. Lewis was born November 11, 1969 in Gevena, Alabama to the late Leon Guy Ward and Willma Lee Phillips Ward.
She is survived by one daughter, Crystal Cooper; one son; Corey Richardson of Ozark; her companion, Dean Beasley of Ozark; grandchildren; Brycen Richardson, Elijah Boben, Waylon Boben, Sean King, Emma McGee and Braylee Brockton; one sister, Becky Ward of Napier Field; and one brother, Chris Ward of Enterprise.
Mrs. Jewel Dean (Bodiford) Saunders, 91, a resident of Dothan, passed away on Friday, August 8, 2025, at Southeast Health with family by her side.
Services will be held at 1:00 pm, Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at Grandview Baptist Church with Reverend Mike Grimes, Reverend Allen Singley, and Kaleb Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Abbeville Memorial Cemetery with Glover Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 11:45 am until 12:45 pm, prior to the service at the church. Flowers will be accepted, or memorial contributions may be made to, Grandview Baptist Church Music Ministry, 2400 Forrester Road, Cowarts, Al 36321.
Mrs. Jewel was born November 21, 1933, in Newville to the late Bernard and Ollie Dean Bodiford. After spending her early life in Newville, she married her husband of 60 years, Calvin Saunders and after living in Abbeville, made a home in Dothan where she lived out the rest of her days. Those who knew Mrs. Jewel knew a kind, generous, and loving woman who met stranger and friend alike with compassion and an outstretched hand. Whether it was gathering with her sisters, cheering on her Braves, enjoying a Red Hat Club outing or spending time with her family, whom she loved dearly, she met life with zeal and excitement. She was widely loved and returned that love tenfold to all who surrounded her. Mrs. Jewel was a true example of being a good and faithful servant as she lived out loud her love for God. Granny Jewel lived up to her name in every aspect of the word and she will be greatly missed.
She is preceded in death by her parents: and her sister Margaret Battle.
She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Calvin Saunders of Dothan, her daughter, Julie Saunders Brown (Todd) of Ashford; her two grandchildren, Jacy Pouncey (Chris), and Janie Smith (Kaleb); her two great-grandchildren, Lucy and Noah Pouncey, and arriving soon Baby Smith; her three sisters, Barbara Sasser (Dewannis), Betty Battle, and Daphne Jones (Sam).
Serving as pallbearers, Kaleb Smith, Chris Pouncey, Sammy Jones, Tracy Jones, Donald Battle, Jackie Battle, and Terry Phillips.
Glover Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. (334) 699-3888. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com.
Joseph Michael Loftin of Hartford, Alabama passed away on Friday, August 8, 2025 at his residence. He was 70 years old.
Mike was born on February 24, 1955 in Mobile, Alabama to the late Samuel Eugene Loftin and Sarah Ward Loftin. Mike was a gifted and creative soul. He had a beautiful artistic talent and exceptional woodworking skills. He also had a knack for fixing or working on just about anything, earning the affectionate title of “tinkerer” from his family. He loved to fish, enjoyed singing, and was the king of “dad jokes,” always bringing laughter to those around him. Mike was also a skilled mechanic. He was family famous for his delicious spaghetti. Above all, he cherished his family, who will forever remember his love, humor, and the countless ways he made their lives brighter.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at Sardis Church in Hartford under the direction of Shelby Lett of Bottoms Garden Chapel Funeral Home.
In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his brother, Samuel (Sonny) Loftin.
He is survived by his wife, Terry Brannon Loftin; children, J. Heath Loftin (Jada), Caitlin McPherson (Justin), and Sam Loftin (Hannah); grandchildren, Eli Loftin, Alec Loftin, Declan Loftin, and Lincoln McPherson; siblings, Sara Oakley (Woody), Becky Watson (Jerry), Pat Loftin (Tracie), Susan Galloway (Kenny), and Terri Cherry (Alan); along with many nieces and nephews.
OZARK…Mr. Carl D. Moseley (CW3, United States Army, Retired), a resident of Ozark, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, early Saturday morning, August 9, 2025, at his home. He was 86.
Graveside services, with full military honors, will be held at 10:30 A.M. Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Cemetery with Reverend Kenneth Hale officiating. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements. The family will receive friends following the graveside service.
Mr. Moseley, born on September 20, 1938, in Ozark, Alabama, was the beloved son of Malcom Moseley and Mattie Lou Harris Moseley. From the very beginning, he was shaped by the values of faith, family, and service—values that would guide him through a life full of purpose and quiet generosity.
He dedicated over twenty-two years of his life to serving in the United States Army, including two tours in Vietnam. His military career was marked by courage, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to his country. Those who knew him rarely heard him boast about his service, but the pride he carried was evident in the way he stood, spoke, and lived. He was a soldier through and through—steadfast, humble, and honorable.
After retiring from the Army in the 1980s, Mr. Moseley continued to serve in a different way—this time as a pilot working with various contractors at Fort Rucker. Flying was more than a job to him; it was a passion. He loved the freedom of the skies and the precision of the craft. Whether in uniform or in the cockpit, he was always focused, dependable, and deeply respected by those around him.
Outside of work, Mr. Moseley found joy in the soil. He was an avid gardener, and his garden was more than just rows of vegetables—it was a labor of love. He poured time and care into every plant, and when harvest came, he didn’t keep it to himself. He shared his bounty generously, especially with his church family. Tomatoes, squash, cucumbers—you name it, he’d show up with bags full, always with a smile and a humble “I thought y’all might enjoy some.”
Church was a cornerstone of Mr. Moseley’s life. He was a current member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church and had previously been a longtime member of Southside Baptist Church. He loved both congregations deeply and was known not just for his presence, but for the warmth he brought with him. At Southside, he earned the nickname “Candy Man” from the children, who knew they could count on him for a sweet treat and a kind word. It wasn’t just about the candy—it was about the joy he took in making others smile, especially the little ones.
Mr. Moseley was the kind of man who didn’t seek attention, but whose life quietly touched so many. He was steady, kind, and full of heart. Whether he was serving his country, flying through the skies, tending his garden, or handing out candy at church, he did it all with love and humility. He was preceded in death a brother, Ewell Moseley.
Surviving relatives include his loving wife, Elaine Moseley; three sons, David Moseley (Angie), Brad Moseley, all of Ozark, Jason Moseley, Dothan; nine grandchildren, whom he loved dearly, Joshua David Moseley (Rachel), Dallas, Texas, Grant A. Moseley, Tallahassee, Florida, Thomas Moseley, North Carolina, Rachel Johnson (Chance), North Carolina, Garrett Daniels, Ozark, Joshua Ethan Moseley, Georgia, Ashton Moseley, Jaley Moseley, Dothan, and Mattie Moseley (Sweet Pea), Ozark; two great-granddaughters; sister, Maxine Moseley, Tennessee; two brothers, William J. Moseley (Shirley), Ozark and Clyde Moseley (Loyette), Albertville, Alabama; his four legged companion, Molly; nieces and nephews.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
