Annie Bell Newsome, affectionately known as Annie to all who knew her, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025, at the age of 99, in Dothan, AL. Born on May 16, 1925, in Malone, FL, Annie grew up imbued with the warmth and charm of the Sunshine State. Her life was one marked by devotion to her family, her faith, and her community, leaving an indelible legacy of love and service.
Annie’s early years in Florida laid the foundation for a life characterized by compassion and kindness. Before moving, she was a teacher in Malone, Florida. She carried these virtues with her as she moved through life, spending significant periods in Tuskegee, AL, and Atlanta, GA, before finally settling in the Dothan area in 1989. Annie’s professional journey as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Atlanta showcased her innate desire to care for others, a trait that was only further exemplified in her later work as a social worker. Her career was not just a job but a true calling, as she touched the lives of countless individuals with her selfless nature.
A loving mother and grandmother, Annie is survived by her daughters, Rosa Wesley, Theresa Newsome, and Belinda Waters; her grandchildren, André Waters, Joel Newsome, Chanté Waters, and Justin Williams, her sisters, Ella Mitchell, Hattie Lester, Mary Langston, and Leola Speights (Johnny); and her sisters-in-law, Doris Collins and Dianne Collins. She also leaves behind a loving host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss her dearly. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joel Newsome, her daughters, Lillie Bell Newsome and Edna Newsome Williams, her parents, Trexie and Daisy Collins, her siblings, Rosetta Williams, Johnnie Collins, Trexie Collins, Jr., Carrie Bowers, Elijah Collins, Emma Pittman, Ralph Collins; and sisters-in-law Diane Collins and Doris Collins.
Annie never met a stranger, and her friendly and gracious demeanor was a breath of fresh air to all who had the pleasure of crossing her path. Her ability to make anyone feel welcome and loved was one of her most remarkable qualities.
Annie found joy and tranquility in the water. It was a passion that kept her active and exemplified her love for life. Her spiritual life was also of great importance to her, and she found solace and inspiration in reading her Bible, an activity that enriched her faith and provided guidance throughout her life.
Annie was the epitome of a loving, faith-filled, and selfless individual. Her life was a testament to the power of positivity and the impact one person can have on the world around them. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and the countless lives she touched with her kindness and generosity. She will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A celebration of Annie’s life will be held on Monday, May 5th, 2025 at 11am at Sunset Memorial Park Chapel. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service.
Robert Lamar Calloway, a man of exceptional character and joyous spirit, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 79. Born on April 6, 1946, in Marianna, Florida, Robert’s life was a tapestry woven with love, adventure, and unending dedication to his family and friends.
Robert’s journey through life was as heartwarming as it was inspirational. His love story began when he fell deeply in love with Kate, his soulmate, and life partner. Their romance faced an early challenge when Kate’s parents insisted Robert earn his diploma before they could marry. True to his determined nature, Robert obtained his GED with steadfast resolve and proudly presented it as a testament to his commitment to both his education and his future wife. Their marriage flourished over 59 beautiful years, blessed with his son, Robert Lamar Calloway, Jr., his two loving daughters, Samantha Reardon and Stephanie (Matthew) Minick, and further enriched by the joy of his grandchildren, Virgil Lamar Kutter Fulford and Kandlei Driskell.
Robert’s dedication to his family was mirrored by his commitment to his country. He was drafted into the US Army and honorably served in the Panama Canal, demonstrating the same level of steadfastness and courage that characterized his personal life. Upon returning to civilian life, Robert embarked on a career in construction, specializing in drywall work. His work ethic was unmatched, and he provided for his family with unwavering devotion, moving as far as Alaska to ply his trade for six years before eventually settling back in Casselberry, Florida.
Those who knew Robert will fondly remember him as the life of the party. His humor and generosity knew no bounds, and his laughter was infectious. He had a passion for stock car racing, a hobby that he shared with his beloved Kate, even gifting her with her own race car. His adventurous spirit was matched only by his thoughtfulness and his innate ability to fix and build, earning him the reputation of being exceptionally handy.
Robert was a man who lived life to the fullest, never missing an opportunity to make memories with those he cherished. His adventurous nature was complemented by a thoughtful and generous heart, always putting others before himself. His legacy is one of love, laughter, and the kind of practical wisdom that comes from a life well-lived.
He leaves behind a family that adores him: his devoted wife, Kate; his daughters, Samantha and Stephanie; his son-in-law, Matthew; his treasured grandchildren, Virgil Lamar Kutter and Kandlei; and his brother, James Albert Calloway. Each of them carries a piece of Robert’s spirit, humor, and love within their hearts. Robert was preceded in death by his infant son, Robert Lamar Calloway, Jr.
Robert Lamar Calloway’s life was a testament to the power of love, the joy of laughter, and the importance of family. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we celebrate a life that was truly well-lived, and we take comfort in knowing that his legacy will continue to shine brightly in the lives of all who knew him. His memory will be cherished and kept alive through the stories shared, the lessons learned, and the love he gave so freely. Rest in peace, Robert, knowing you have left the world a better place for your presence.
A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at Sunset Funeral Home at 11:00am. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service. Military honors will follow in Sunset Memorial Park.
DOTHAN. . .Sarah Petty Key, a former resident of Dothan, died Tuesday afternoon, April 29, 2025, in Hartford Health Care. She was 97.
Graveside services will be held at 3:30 P.M. Friday, May 2, 2025, in Gardens of Memory, between Headland & Dothan, with Chaplain Chris Adams officiating. The family will receive friends following the graveside services.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105
Mrs. Key was born and reared in Amory, Mississippi, daughter of the late Mayo Petty and Velma Smith Petty. She moved to Dothan in 1947 where she was a member of Southside Baptist Church. Mrs. Key was formerly employed by Sony Corporation in Dothan. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Preston Key, and three brothers, Henry Petty, Robert Petty and Rex Petty.
Surviving relatives include a daughter, Marilyn Key Ivey (Robert), Dothan; a son, Jimmy Key (Kerry), Dothan; a brother, Bernie Petty (Judy), Tupelo, MS; grandchildren, Jana Hollingsworth (Jamie), Susannah McCord (Adam), Jason Key (Christie) and Justin Key (Daria); great-grandchildren, Elizabeth Webb (Eddie), James Webb, Evan Key, Patrick Key, Jamie Hollingsworth, II (Rhandi), Anderson McCord, John Robert McCord, Dalia Key and Julian Key; a great-great-grandson, Everett Donaldson; several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to express their appreciation to Hartford Health Care and DaySpring Hospice for the extra special loving care and kindness shown to Mrs. Key during her illness.
HOLMAN-HEADLAND MORTUARY & CREMATIONS IS IN CHARGE OF ARRANGEMENTS. Phone 334-693-3371. may sign a guest register at www.holmanmortuaries.com. This establishment does not own a crematory.
Jerry Wallace Kennedy
February 28, 1946 – April 3, 2025
Jerry Wallace Kennedy passed away on April 3, 2025, at the age of 79. Born on February 28,
1946, Jerry lived a life of service, commitment, and quiet strength.
He honorably served his country in the United States Air Force from 1963 to 1967, with
assignments in Okinawa and North Dakota. Following his military service, Jerry continued
to serve his community as a dedicated officer with the Albany Police Department from
1972 until his retirement in 1990.
In his retirement, Jerry made his home in Ft. Gaines, Georgia, where he enjoyed a quieter
pace of life on Lake Eufaula.
Jerry was preceded in death by his father, Lloyd Edmon Kennedy; his mother, Nell Johnson
Kennedy; his sister, Genella Kennedy Hancock; and his brothers, Thomas Edwin and Jackie
Wayne Kennedy.
He is survived by his wife, Diane Kennedy; his daughter, Nicole Knights (fiancé Patrick
Kinzel); and his cherished grandchildren, Mackenzie Willis (Clay) and Christian Knights
(fiancé Marylen Kennedy); and his great grandchildren Jaxon, Lilly and Sadie. He is also
survived by his brothers-in-law, Danny Williams (Leigh) and Jackie Williams (Elaine), who
were especially supportive during his illness.
He will be remembered for his service, his devotion to family and country, and the legacy he
leaves behind in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Sandra “Sandy” Butler Schlueter from Taylor, Alabama passed away
peacefully on April 12, 2025 after an extended illness. She was 83 years old,
born and raised in Huntsville, AL.
Sandy loved spending time with her friends at the Taylor Senior Center,
where she was an enthusiastic member of the Taylor Senior Dancing Team.
They often visited various Assisted Nursing facilities to spread joy through
dance. She also had a passion for traveling and playing BINGO at the Elks
Lodge. Mrs. Schlueter cherished being around people and was a devoted
member of Grandview Baptist Church. After retiring from civil service at Ft.
Rucker, AL, she continued to touch hearts with her sweet and kind nature.
She had a special fondness for chocolate and Diet Coke, which always brought
a smile to her face.
Mrs. Schlueter was preceded in death of her husband Walter Schlueter; her
parents Foster and Lillian Butler.
She is survived by her beloved children: Denise (Ron) Wilkins, Cottonwood,
AL, Ralph (Rachael) Pritchard, Tampa FL, daughter in law Delanie Pritchard,
Bonifay, FL.
Grandchildren: Charlotte Wilkins, Cottonwood, AL, Bradley Wilkins
(Courtney) Dothan, AL, Michelle (Jeff) Bosse, Panama City, FL, Meredith
Pritchard, Bonifay, FL, Ethan Pritchard, Silicon Valley, CA and Cameron
Pritchard, Tampa, FL.
Great-grandchildren: Colton and Emmie, Cottonwood, AL, Ellie and Lily
Panama City, FL.
Brother: Senator Tom (Karen) Butler, Huntsville, AL.
A family private memorial service will be held at Maple Hill Cemetery,
Huntsville, AL.
The family would like to give a special thank you to Sodalis Senior Living,
Defuniak Springs, FL for the care they provided.
