Arthur “Art” Doyle, a cherished husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025, in Slocomb, Alabama, at the age of 77. Born in New York, New York, on February 22, 1948, Art lived a life marked by dedication, service, and an unwavering optimism that left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
Art is lovingly remembered by his wife of 56 years, Grace Doyle and his daughter, Julia Doyle. His legacy extends through a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-great-nieces and nephews, as well as several close friends who became like family over the years. Art was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Ethel Doyle, his brothers Richie Doyle and Wesley Doyle, and his sister Janice Selfilein.
Before earning a master’s degree in mathematics from Troy University, Art dedicated 34 years of his life to the United States Army, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5) and Master Army Aviator where he received numerous awards. His bravery and commitment were exemplified through his service in the Vietnam War. Following his retirement, Art continued to contribute to the military community, spending several years at Ft. Rucker’s working at the safety center, where his expertise and guidance were invaluable.
Art’s Christian faith was the cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and interactions with those around him. He was an embodiment of love, intelligence, and courage, always ready to extend a helping hand or share a moment of joy. His optimistic and forward-thinking nature was a beacon of hope, even in the most challenging times.
An avid traveler, Art’s curiosity and zest for life led him to live in numerous places, including a memorable time in Germany. His adventurous spirit was matched only by his professionalism and great intellect. Art’s ability to see the good in people, paired with his quick wit and love for joking around, made him a delightful presence in any gathering.
Art’s interests were as broad as his travels. He was an intelligent man who loved to engage in thoughtful conversations and was always eager to learn something new. His professional demeanor never overshadowed his capacity for fun; he was the epitome of someone who could balance a great career with a great life.
The family extends special thanks to the compassionate caregivers from Centerwell Home Health, Gentiva Hospice, and Joy from the VA office, who provided unwavering support and care during Art’s final days.
Art Doyle’s life was one of purpose, love, and laughter. He was a great man who strove to make a positive impact on the world and the lives of those around him. He will be deeply missed, yet his spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known him.
A celebration of Art’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 2pm in the Sunset Memorial Park Chapel with military honors to follow. He will be laid to rest in the Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in Art’s honor. https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org
WEBB, ALABAMA. . .Mary Elizabeth Bolden Long, a resident of Webb, died Thursday afternoon, May 22, 2025, in a Dothan hospital. She was 74.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Sunday, May 25, 2025, in the Holman-Headland Mortuary Chapel with Reverend Joey Hudspeth officiating. Burial will follow in the Anderson Baptist Church Cemetery in Blue Springs, Alabama. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 P.M. Sunday at the mortuary in Headland. At other times, the family will be at the home of Chris Long, 511 Drake Drive, Dothan.
Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to Gentiva Hospice, 2431 West Main Street, Suite 1102, Dothan, AL 36301.
Mary Long was born and reared in Bonifay, Florida, daughter of the late Joseph Mitchell Bolden and Essie Beatrice Harris Bolden. She formerly lived in Dothan but lived in Pickens, South Carolina from 1969 until1976 when she returned to Dothan. Mary lived between Webb and Ashford since 2014. She attended Wallace Community College where she received an Associates Degree in Business and Office Administration. She was formerly employed by Alatech in Slocomb, London International in Dothan, the Circuit Clerk in Houston County and also Ansell of Dothan. Mary was of the Free Will Baptist Faith. She was preceded in death by her husband, Edwin Wesley Long, sisters, Marie Zachary, Daisey Reed, Violet Pate and Marion Martin, brothers, Billy Zachary, Joe Zachary and a grandson, Robert Lee.
Surviving relatives include a daughter, Maria Long Lee of Webb, AL; a son, Christopher Edwin Long (Amy), Taylor, AL; a former son-in-law, Don Lee, Rehobeth, AL; a sister, Rosie Alexander, Gulfport, MS; a brother, William Bolden (Margaret), Caryville, FL; grandchildren, Elizabeth Nooe (Landon), Taylor Herring (Justin), Mark Long, Alyssa Shields (Andrew) and Courtney Wright (Jordan); great-grandchildren, Grant Herring, Grayson Shields, Preston Wright and Carson Wright; several nieces and nephews, special friends, Merle, Mike “Cowboy”, Rodney and Priscilla; mother-in-law, Jo Linda Taylor and sisters-in-law, Sara Dunning (Jerry), Mary Mckenzie, and a brother-in-law, Tim Pate.
Serving as active pallbearers will be Justin Herring, Marty Richards, Jordan Wright, Kenny Watts, Mark Long and Andrew Shields.
The family would like to thank Gentiva Hospice including, Myndi, Joyce and Mollie for the loving care and kindness shown to Mrs. Long during her illness
HOLMAN-HEADLAND MORTUARY & CREMATIONS IS IN CHARGE OF ARRANGEMENTS. Phone 334-693-3371. You may sign a guest register at www.holmanmortuaries.com. This establishment does not own a crematory.
Mrs. Beverly Ann White Raley, a resident of Ozark, died Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in Dale Medical Center. She was 75 years old.
A memorial service for Mrs. Raley will be held 11:00 A.M. Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the First United Methodist Church of Ozark with Reverend Dr. Jason Thrower and Reverend Marty Hamilton officiating. Interment will be in the Meditation Garden at the church, Holman Funeral Home of Ozark directing.
The family will receive friends in the church Saturday from 10:00 A.M. until service time.
Mrs. Raley was born October 1, 1949 in Donalsonville, Georgia, to the late Herman Darby White and Loyce Spooner White. She graduated from the University of Georgia in 1973 and earned her Masters degree and AA from Troy State University. Mrs. Raley was a die-hard Georgia Bulldogs fan. For over thirty years, she was an educator, speech pathologist and counselor. Throughout her career she had a tremendous impact on many young lives. She worked for many years as a lifeguard and volunteered at the library and throughout the community.
Mrs. Raley was a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church of Ozark where she served in many capacities.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Sonny Raley; and her sister, Barbara Sue. Survivors include her niece; Ila White Dermanoski (Andy) of El Segundo, California; two step sons Kevin (Susan) Raley and Kip Raley all of Daphne, Alabama; seven grandchildren, Darby Cole Dermanoski, Jackson Lee Dermanoski, Kelly Raley, Benjamin Raley, Kerri Raley, Casey Raley, Reagan Raley; and two great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Ozark, 167 East Broad Street, Ozark, Alabama 36360; or Vivian B. Adams School, 2047 Stuart Tarter Road, Ozark, Alabama 36360.
Brenda Annette McCloud was born on May 9, 1964, to James McCloud and Frankie McCloud. She was one of two children. As a young lady she attended Springfield Community School, Hawthorne Middle School, and Frank H. Morrell (Irvington High School) of New Jersey.
Not long after completing high school Brenda was eager to join the NJ workforce and began Social Work at The Woodbridge Developmental Center. She continued her career at Woodbridge Child Diagnostic Center, where she captured the hearts of many. Brenda was a resolute caregiver to troubled youth, not only did she extend an open mind and heart at work she also opened her home to her “other babies” as a thoughtless act. In 2014 she retired to Dothan, Alabama to be closer to her parents.
In her earlier years, Brenda attended Sunday school and ushered at St. Paul A.M.E church in East Orange, NJ. She also enjoyed the Arts. Whether she was modeling, Dancing Jazz, Tap, Ballet or Rolling around Twin City, Brenda was a bit of a Tiger. A nickname given to her by her father that she grew into. She was fearless, confident, ambitious, and just an overall Go Getter.
On May 12, 2025, she was called home to be with the Lord. She was surrounded by angels who guided her into heaven. She was a devoted mother to her three girls and had ample love for those she fostered over the course of her life. She will always be remembered for her bright stylish clothing, matching sneakers / accessories, her hairstyles, her ambition, and overall desire to always help others.
Brenda leaves behind to cherish her precious memories : Her Children LaToya Harrison, Diamond Moore, China Moore. Takei Moore, Bahia Parish, Drena Adams, along with other Bonus Children. Her husband Keith Moore. Parents; James McCloud (Mary McCloud) Frankie Whye (Vernon Whye). Siblings; Ernest McCloud, James R. McCloud, Katia Mc Kiver. Neices, nephews, and a host of family and friends. Special Acknowledgement to her Friends; Joyce Ramsey, Tracey Jenkins, Zina Minter, Jennifer Ivory, Valvonda Brickhouse and countless others.
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
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.