Obituary for Jefferson “Chase” Faircloth of Midland City
MIDLAND CITY…Jefferson C. “Chase” Faircloth, a resident of Midland City, died late Friday evening, June 6, 2025, in Oakview Manor. He was 27.
Funeral services will be held at 4:00 P.M. Saturday, June 14, 2025, in the Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home Chapel . The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 4:00 P.M. Saturday at the funeral home. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.
Chase was born on March 31, 1998, and spent his entire life in Dale County, a place that always felt like home to him. He grew up surrounded by family, friends, and a community that shaped him into the incredible person he became. From an early age, Chase had a bright mind and a kind heart, always eager to learn and help others. He began his education at Newton Elementary School, continued through Southdale Middle School, and later attended Dale County High School. His dedication to his studies was evident—he was an “A” Honor Roll student every step of the way, pushing himself to excel in everything he did. His passion for learning led him to dual enrollment at Wallace College, where he pursued his dream of becoming a nurse. He wanted to make a difference, to care for others in their most vulnerable moments, and he worked hard to turn that vision into reality. In 2014 Chase had a medical accident that cut his childhood short and ultimately placed him in the nursing home.
Outside of academics, Chase had a full and vibrant life. He had a deep love for baseball and spent many seasons playing in Newton, finding joy in the sport, the teamwork, and the friendships he built along the way. He was also a devoted fan of Alabama Football, never missing an opportunity to cheer on the Crimson Tide. And like so many his age, Chase enjoyed unwinding with his Xbox, talking with his friends online, diving into games that let him relax and have fun.
More than anything, Chase was a person who brought warmth, laughter, and kindness to those around him. His impact on his community and the lives of the people who loved him will always be remembered.
Surviving relatives include his parents, Melissa Johnson (Walter) Midland City; two sisters, Lindsay McLean (Alex), Black and Nicole Faircloth; two step-brothers, Garret Johnson (Maranda) and Garrin Johnson; grandparents, Sandra Gron Gulledge, Ozark, Robin and Don Riddle, Belton, South Carolina, and Murl and Ross Faircloth, Luverne, Alabama; nieces and nephews, Lilyannah Faircloth, C.J. Faircloth, Asher McLean, Emma Johnson, and Spencer Johnson; aunts and uncles, Lori and Chris Simpson, and their children, Brittany and Bethany Simpson, Garrett Smith, and his daughter, Kodie, and Daniel Riddle (Nayibe) and their children, Victoria, Isabella, and Emily; his loving and supportive family at Oakview Manor, Gayle “Boo” Jordan, Cherese Harmon, Tina Spruill, Calandra Crittenden, Nikki Thompson, Val Levens, Ruthie Teal, Rhonda Pugh, Pamela Weed, Shameka McCray, and numerous others.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
Legary Lovett McBride
ABBEVILLE. . .Legary Lovett McBride, a resident of Abbeville, died early Saturday morning, June 7, 2025, in a Dothan hospital. He was 75.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, June 10, 2025, in the McBride Family Barn, 1215 Singletary Road, Abbeville, with Reverend Otis Derrah and Reverend Joey Hudspeth officiating. Burial will follow in the Abbeville Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the services. Holman-Abbeville Mortuary & Cremations is in charge of arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Adoniram Baptist Church, c/o Tina Barnes, 3475 County Road 71, Shorterville, AL 36373.
Legary McBride was born and reared in Eufaula, son of the late James Joseph McBride and Madie Lovett McBride. He was a graduate of Eufaula High School and received an Associates Degree from Wallace College Sparks Campus. Legary was a member of Adoniram Baptist Church. He was retired from Alabama Power Company in Eufaula as Supply Chain Coordinator. Legary was preceded in death by a step-son, Trevor Haywood and a brother, Joseph McBride.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Sammi Singletary McBride, sons, Drew McBride (Jennifer), Hoover, AL; Chris McBride (Brandi), Temple, GA; and Patrick McBride (Carrie), Headland, AL; a daughter, Dawn Walters, Winder, GA; grandchildren, Anderson McBride, Madelyn McBride, Haley Anderson (Chandler), Isabella McBride, Gabby McBride, Carleigh McBride, Calleigh McBride, Pate McBride and Jonathan Walters (Amber); two nieces and a nephew.
HOLMAN ABBEVILLE MORTUARY & CREMATIONS IS IN CHARGE OF FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS. Phone 334-585-5261.You may sign a guest register at www.holmanmortuaries.com. This firm does not own a crematory.
Thomas Gerald Griffin
Thomas Gerald Griffin, a cherished father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on June 6, 2025, at the age of 93 in Dothan, Alabama. Born on November 16, 1931, in Washington, DC, Thomas was a man of exceptional character, known for his courage, friendliness, and loving nature.
Raised in the heart of Coffee County, Thomas grew up at Danley’s Cross Roads near Elba, where he formed the foundation of his strong values and work ethic. He attended Curtis Junior High School and later graduated from Elba High School. Furthering his education, Thomas attended Troy State Teacher’s College, where he honed his leadership skills and prepared for a life of service.
Thomas dedicated a significant portion of his life to his country through a distinguished career in the United States Air Force. As a Vietnam War veteran, he exhibited bravery and commitment that earned him the respect and admiration of his peers. His service to the nation was a testament to his patriotism and courage. Upon retiring from the Air Force, Thomas chose to settle in Olympia, Washington, where he enjoyed many happy years.
In Olympia, Thomas was not only known for his military service but also for his amiable personality and his ability to form lasting friendships. He was a beacon of love and strength to his family, and his guidance was a cornerstone in their lives. Two and a half years prior to his passing, Thomas moved to Dothan, Alabama, to be closer to his loved ones, making the most of his time with them.
Thomas leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. He is survived by his daughter, Yvonne Jaremko and her husband Roman, his granddaughter, Ruby Christie and her husband Tom, his brothers, Floyd and Jerry Griffin, his sister, Sue King, and his nieces and nephews, Floyd Griffin, Kathy Griffin, and Amy Griffin. His presence will be profoundly missed by each of them, as well as by the community he impacted so positively.
Thomas was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jeanette Griffin, his parents, Eugene Cleo Griffin and Elsie Cauley Griffin, and his brother, Harvey Griffin. The love and memories shared with his wife, Jeanette, will remain a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew them.
In honoring Thomas’s life, it is impossible to overlook the words that best describe him: courageous, friendly, and loving. These qualities were evident in every aspect of his life, from his military service to his unwavering support of his family. Thomas will be laid to rest next to his beloved wife in Olympia, Washington, where together they will continue to watch over their family.
Thomas Gerald Griffin’s life story is one of honor, dedication, and love. As we remember him, we are reminded of the impact one individual can have on the lives of many. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us. Thomas’s life was a journey of purpose and passion, and though he has departed from this world, his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Alvin Norman Farmer
Alvin Norman Farmer, known affectionately as Norman to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025, in Tampa, FL. Born on June 20, 1955, Norman lived a rich and fulfilling life, marked by devotion to his faith, his country, and his loved ones. His warmth and generosity touched the lives of everyone he met, leaving a legacy of kindness and steadfastness that will be cherished forever.
Norman is survived by his loving wife, Mary Farmer of 30 years. Norman was married previously for 18 ½ years to Teresa with whom he raised two wonderful children, Jeff (Heather) Farmer and April Karejwa. Norman’s joy was multiplied with the arrival of his grandchildren Tyler, Peyton, Hope, Benjamin, and Thomas, whom he adored beyond measure. He was a beloved brother to Marty (Kim) Farmer, Mark (Cindy) Farmer, Charles Farmer, Rodger (Tami) Farmer, Sealia (Doug) Raley, Rose Ann (Dennis) Grantham, and Mavis (Chris) Purvis. His numerous nieces and nephews also held a special place in his heart. Norman was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. Alvin Monroe Farmer and Trecy Eldora Farmer and a brother, Wakely Kirkland.
Norman’s service in the United States Air Force for 17 years showcased his unwavering commitment to his country. After his military career, he transitioned into the corporate world, contributing his talents to Capital One for several years. He later found a sense of purpose in his role as a courier for a medical company, where he was able to combine his love for the open road with his desire to serve others.
A man of deep Christian faith, Norman’s beliefs were the cornerstone of his existence. His parents instilled in him the values that would guide him throughout his life: a love for God, family, and country. These principles were evident in everything he did, from his passionate support of Alabama Football to his enjoyment of old school country music. Norman never met a stranger; his ability to converse with anyone and everyone was one of his most endearing qualities. He was a very giving man, always placing the needs of others before his own, and his strong Christian faith was a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew him.
Norman’s zest for life was infectious. He was a loving, passionate, and occasionally stubborn man, but above all, he was a man of God. His sense of humor and love for fun made him the center of attention in any gathering.
We will remember Norman as a man who lived life to the fullest, cherished every moment with his family, and upheld his values with unwavering conviction. His presence in our lives was a gift, and while we mourn his passing, we take solace in the knowledge that his spirit lives on in each of us. Norman’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and faith—a legacy that will continue to guide us in the years to come.
The Farmer family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to all those who have supported them during this time. Norman’s life will be celebrated with the same love and joy he shared with us all. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
A Celebration of Norman’s life will be held at 2:00 pm on Monday, June 9, 2025 at Piney Grove Assembly of God Church, County Road 9, Newton, AL 36352 with Rev. Billy Fortune and Rev. Rickey Jenkins officiating. Norman will be laid to rest in Piney Grove Assembly of God Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church on Monday from 1-2 pm.
Shirley Reese Nodes
Shirley Reese Nodes, a beacon of love and faith, passed away on June 5, 2025, after an extended illness. Born on August 23, 1946, in DeFuniak Springs, Florida, Shirley lived a life characterized by service, devotion, and joy. Her final days were spent surrounded by the love of her family in Headland, AL, where she had made an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her.
Shirley’s life was one of steadfast love and commitment, beautifully illustrated by her nearly 58-year-long marriage to her beloved husband, Wendell Willkie Nodes. The couple exchanged vows on November 11, 1967, and since then, built a life together founded on mutual respect and affection. Their union was blessed with a son, Gerald Paul, who, alongside his wife Rose, continued the legacy of love that Shirley and Wendell exemplified.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Gerald Price Drew and Lollie Orea Johnson Drew, as well as her brothers, Bobby and Tommy Drew. Her family circle was further extended to include her cherished grandchildren, Juliana Nodes, Johnathon Vandegrift, Justin Vandegrift (Amber), and Jessica Vandegrift (JoAnna), who brought immense joy to her life. Her niece, Kimberly Drew, great-grandchildren, Joseph, Caiden, Ethan, and Emma Vandegrift, as well as her great-niece, Arizona Bishop, and great-nephew, Dakota Bishop, will hold dear the memory of her loving presence.
Shirley’s professional life was marked by her 20 years of dedicated service in the US Navy, where she rose to the rank of lieutenant. Serving alongside her husband, she displayed an unwavering commitment to her country. Following her military career, Shirley, together with Wendell, embarked on entrepreneurial ventures, opening and operating the Headland Oil Processing Company (HOPCO) and Emu Miracles in Headland, AL. Their businesses were not just commercial pursuits but also expressions of their shared passion and teamwork.
A woman of deep faith, Shirley was an active member of Harvest Church, where she found strength and solace in her church family. Her love for the Lord was the cornerstone of her existence and influenced every aspect of her life. Shirley’s interests reflected her zest for life and her love for people. She adored the beach, relished in traveling, took pleasure in gardening, and cherished times of fellowship and shopping. A loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, Shirley’s generosity knew no bounds. She took delight in hosting gatherings, where her captivating and contagious smile would light up any room.
In every sense, Shirley was the life of the party, always ready to share a laugh or lend a listening ear. Her kindness was as bountiful as her generosity, and she touched the lives of many with her charitable spirit. Shirley’s legacy is one of a life well-lived, full of love, faith, and generosity. She is deeply loved and will be sorely missed by the countless lives she enriched.
A celebration of Shirley’s life will be held at 2pm in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, with Bill Dominy officiating. Military honors will follow the service at the Sunset Helicopter Pavillion. The family will be receiving friends an hour prior to the service in the chapel.