Jean Connell, age 88, joined her Lord and Savior as she passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, in Graceville, Florida.
A private family memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at Glover Funeral Home.
Flowers will be accepted, or memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Jean Connell was born on March 25, 1937, in Florala, Alabama, to Lucius and Pearl (Addie) Spicer. Her life was a testament to love, faith, and selfless service. Jean was deeply devoted to her family and her Lord, pouring her heart into everything she did. Whether it was cooking, gardening, sewing, crafting, or floral arranging, she approached each endeavor with passion and precision—infusing her home with beauty, creativity, and a vibrant energy that made it the heart of every celebration.
She gifted her three daughters with a deeply rooted faith and a model of strength. Jean was the embodiment of grace and grit, overcoming life’s trials and setbacks with steely resolve, always anchored by her love for God and her family. She was smart, fiercely competitive, and endlessly creative—bringing her full spirit to everything she touched and everyone she loved.
She shared 62 wonderful years with her husband, Carey B. Connell. Their whirlwind romance led to a life of adventure as they raised three daughters while moving across the country as a military family. As empty nesters, they eventually settled in Graceville, Florida. There, Jean became an active member of her community and the United Methodist Church of Graceville. She lived a life of service—faithfully volunteering in her church and dedicating her time to others while raising her family.
Her memory will be cherished by her four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, who were the light of her later years and brought immense joy to her heart. Jean will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, but her spirit, her recipes, and the beauty she brought to the world will live on in the hearts of her family and community.
Jean is survived by her beloved husband, Carey B. Connell; daughters, Cecilia D. Homison (Lee), Sonya G. Mitchell (Rickey), and Melissa C. Hall (Adam); grandchildren, Ashley Logan (William), Lauren Hall, Courtney Hall, and Logan Homison; and great-grandchildren, Jack Connell Logan, Elizabeth Logan, and Anna Logan. She also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Lucius and Pearl Spicer, and her siblings, Morgan Spicer, Horace Spicer, Pete Spicer, Peg Spicer, Sue Spicer, John Spicer, and Ernest Spicer.
Her legacy of love and faith will live on for generations.
Glover Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 699-3888. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com
Dorothy Nell Ryals, a cherished resident of Ashford, Alabama, passed on May 21, 2025. She was 80 years old. She was born on November 3, 1944. Dorothy was a beacon of light and loved everyone she knew.
A devoted Christian, Dorothy lived her life grounded in faith and love for the Lord. She was an active member of Antioch Baptist Church, where she served in many different roles, contributing her time and talents to the community that meant so much to her. Her unwavering commitment to her Christian beliefs was evident in her daily life and the kindness she extended to everyone around her. Dorothy was known for her warm heart, gentle spirit, and the countless ways she served her church and community. She inspired many through her example of grace and compassion, reminding us all of the importance of faith and love in our lives.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her father, Fair Daniel Pynes, and mother, Faye Toy Pynes; her beloved husband, William Ryals Sr.; her sons, William “Buddy” Ryals Sr. and Billy Ryals Sr.; her grandson, Justin Ryals.; and sister Sarah Chalmers.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Stephanie Ingram (Todd), along with her cherished grandchildren: Ashton Ingram, Luke Ingram, B.J. Ryals (Rachel), Matthew Ryals, Eric Ryals, Kayla Ryals, and Brandon Ryals. Additionally, she is survived by many great-grandchildren. Dorothy is also survived by her brothers: Mack Pynes (Merlene), Walter Pynes (Maxine), and Dennis Pynes; and her sister, Linda McDaniel (Jesse). She is also survived by her sister-in-law Syble Harper (David). Dorothy’s family was her pride and joy, and she instilled in them the values of love, kindness, and faith that she held dear.
Her legacy of love and devotion will continue to resonate in the hearts of her family and friends. Dorothy Nell Ryals leaves behind a profound impact on the lives she touched and will be dearly missed by all.
A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Antioch Baptist Church with Reverend Ray Cobb and Wayne Quattlebaum officiating. Entombment will follow in the church cemetery with Glover Funeral Home of Dothan directing. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in memory of her to Antioch Baptist Church, located at 3250 South Rocky Creek Road, Ashford, AL 36312.
The family will receive friends at Glover Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, from 3:00 until 5:00 p.m.
Serving as pallbearers are Todd Ingram, Luke Ingram, B.J. Ryals and Matthew Ryals.
Glover Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 699-3888. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com
DOTHAN… Patricia Linder Ross, a resident of Dothan, Alabama, passed away Tuesday evening, May 20, 2025, at the home of her daughter. She was 90.
Funeral services will be held 2:00 P.M. Saturday, May 24, 2025, at First Baptist Church Dothan, with Dr. Taylor Rutland officiating. Family memories and remarks will be shared by her grandson, Reverend Nathan Nowell. Personal remarks will be given by Reverend Bob Gross. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 P.M. prior to the service. Wright Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.
Flowers will be accepted, or contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church of Dothan Music or Mission programs, 300 West Main Street, Dothan, AL 36301, or www.fbcdothan.org.
Mrs. Ross was born in Shawmut, Alabama to the late Clarence Emory Linder and Thelma Bell Riddle Linder. She was a 1953 graduate of Baker High School in Columbus, Georgia, where she was a varsity cheerleader. She had previously lived in Opelika, AL, Marietta, GA, Columbus, GA, and LaGrange, GA before moving to Dothan, AL over sixty-five years ago. She retired from Sears in Dothan. Mrs. Pat was a former member of the Dothan Service League and was very involved in PTA, serving as President for several terms. She was a very dedicated member of the First Baptist Church of Dothan, where she influenced the lives of many young people over the years teaching Sunday School and Training Union. Mrs. Pat never met a stranger and was known for her welcoming spirit and sweet smile.
Along with her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, John Frank Ross; and her brother, Wesley T. Allen, Jr..
Leaving to cherish her memories are her daughters, Ginger Ross and Beth Nowell (Dr. Michael); her son, Wesley Ross (Leilani); her brother, George Linder; her grandchildren, Ross Nowell (Arial), Andrew Nowell, and Rev. Nathan Nowell (Dr. Sarah); and her great-grandchildren, Sean, Aiden, Rowan, Liam, and Flora.
Serving as active pallbearers will be Dr. Michael Nowell, Ross Nowell, Andrew Nowell, Rev. Nathan Nowell, Sean Nowell, Aiden Nowell, Mason Morrow, and Dr. Frank Crockett.
Francis Jerome Mader, affectionately known as Jerry to his friends and family, departed this world on May 20, 2025, at the age of 93 in Opp, Alabama. Born on March 4, 1932, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Jerry lived a life marked by dedication, service, and an unwavering love for his family.
Jerry was a man of many talents and pursuits. His career in the military began humbly as a cook, but his drive and determination saw him learning to fly, eventually retiring as a Flight Activity Commander Colonel in the United States Army National Guard. His commitment to excellence was evident as he excelled in the world of Army Aviation as one of the 1st aviation classes at Camp Rucker. Following his distinguished military service, Jerry continued to serve his community as a faithful attendee of Christ the King Catholic Church in Andalusia.
After retiring in Wisconsin as a Full Bird Colonel, Jerry moved to Kinston, Alabama in the 1970s, where he embraced the tranquility of rural life. Known by his unique nickname, “Spike,” he had an affinity for the simple pleasures of life. He could often be found basking in the sun’s warmth, watching bull riding on TV, or enjoying the company of his horses. Hunting and fishing were activities he shared with his children, creating lasting memories during their younger years.
Jerry’s kind and courageous spirit was an inspiration to all who knew him. His loving nature was the cornerstone of his role as a family man. He is survived by his son, Brian Mader (Susan), his beloved grandchildren, Jennifer Chacon (Kirby) and Katherine Mader, and six great-grandchildren who will carry forward his legacy of kindness and courage. Jerry also leaves behind many friends and extended family members who will miss his presence deeply.
His life story would not be complete without honoring the love of his life, his wife of 69 years, Joan Deann Mader, who preceded him in death. Jerry was also preceded in death by his daughter, Barbara Mader Windham, his grandmother Mildred Bernstein who raised him, his parents, and his sister, Dolly Mader. Each of these individuals held a special place in his heart and helped shape the man he became.
Jerry Mader’s life was a testament to his unwavering strength and the love he had for those around him. As we bid farewell to a man who was larger than life, we are comforted by the knowledge that his influence will continue through the generations he has touched. Jerry’s story does not end with his passing, for he has left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 11am in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Deacon Joe Mueller officiating. Military honors to follow the service at the Sunset Military Pavillion. He will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery next to his beloved wife, Joan.
HEADLAND… Sarah Burkett Knight, a resident of Headland, Alabama, passed away Wednesday morning, May 21, 2025, at her home. She was 91.
A memorial service will be held 2:00 P.M. Friday, May 23, 2025, at Wright Funeral Home & Crematory Chapel with Reverend Jim Tate officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 P.M. prior to the service. Wright Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.
Mrs. Knight was born in Headland, Alabama to the late Archie Lee Burkett and Irell Bond Burkett. She has lived much of her life in Headland, Alabama. She retired from Ansell Manufacturing in Dothan, Alabama.
Along with her parents (Archie Lee Burkett & Irell Bond Burkett), she was also preceded in death by her husband, Gene Knight; her sisters, Christine Webb, Ruby Kelly, and Gayle Wright; her brothers, Bobby Burkett, Carl Burkett, and Willie Burkett; and her grandchildren, Chase Knight, Jason McCraney, John Paul Richards.
Leaving to cherish her memories are her daughters, Connie Carter (Don), Daphne Stokes, and Alice Knight; her sons, Charlie Knight (Vicki) and Terry Knight (Kris); her brother, Donnie Burkett; her twelve grandchildren; her twenty great-grandchildren; and her 19 great-great-grandchildren.
Latrelle B. Wartman, a beacon of creativity and a cherished member of the Ashford community, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on September 2, 1938, in Axson, Georgia, Latrelle’s life was one marked by artistic passion, a love for teaching, and a dedication to family and friends.
She graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in Jacksonville, Florida, where her passion for art first took shape. That passion became a lifelong calling as both an artist and an art teacher. Latrelle inspired generations of students across the region, encouraging them to explore their creativity and find their voice through art.
Latrelle’s creative contributions to the world were immense. Not only was she a talented artist and art teacher, but she also had a love for the land, raising cattle in Ashford. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly when she founded the Tri-State Peachy Painters in 1998, an association that brought together artists from various backgrounds to celebrate and cultivate their craft. Latrelle retired from painting in 2005, leaving behind a legacy of beauty and inspiration that will continue to influence aspiring artists for generations to come.
She was preceded in death by her husband, William “Bill” Wartman, her sister, Lucille Beck; and her grandchild, Khylee Holden. She leaves behind her children, Dawn Strickland (Margie), Kenneth Strickland (Lynn), and Bill Wartman (Lisa); grandchildren Will Wartman III, Chantell Strickland, Colton Strickland (Kayla), and Craig Strickland (Caitlyn); and great-grandchildren Lincoln, Lily, Levi Strickland, Cameron, Cayden, and Clark Strickland; and one step great grandchild, Waylon. Her siblings, Hank Bennett, Rudene Fahey, Mary Brown, Elouise Pellham, and Sandy Webb, will remember her as a devoted sister who brought warmth to every gathering. Latrelle’s life was also graced with the companionship of her beloved cat, Lucy, who was a source of comfort and joy.
Known for her creativity, resilience, and quiet strength, Latrelle Wartman made a lasting impact. Her influence will live on through her family, her students, and the many who were moved by her art. She will be deeply missed.
A graveside service to honor Latrelle’s life will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, May 25, 2025 at Memory Hill Cemetery with Rev. Audrey Scott Williams officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00pm-1:30pm at Sunset Funeral Home on Sunday.
Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com
Dorothy Nell Ryals, a cherished resident of Ashford, Alabama, passed on May 21, 2025. She was 80 years old. She was born on November 3, 1944. Dorothy was a beacon of light and loved everyone she knew.
