Arnold Parham, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, coach, mentor, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 67. Arnold Parham was born on January 13, 1958 in New York and moved to Virginia where he stayed.
Arnold was kind to everybody and a hard worker and a very helpful person. Arnold’s loving wife of 41 years, Ophelia Parham, stood by his side as a testament to their love and partnership. Arnold’s dedication to his country was evident in his over 10 years of service in the US Army, from which he medically retired. Arnold was an Aircraft Structures Technician, and he loved coaching track at Providence Christian School. Arnold demonstrated as an instructor of Hapkido where he earned the respected rank of a 3rd degree blackbelt. He was a funny guy who could light up a room.
Arnold was preceded in death by his mother, Louise Rebecca Parham, father, Franklin Roosevelt Bailey and step-father, Horse Brooks, his brothers, Michael Parham and Franklin Roosevelt Bailey, Jr and uncle, Howard Parham.
Arnold is survived by his devoted wife, Ophelia Parham, 3 children, Karrico Parham (Monifa) and Jermaine Corand (Jasmine), and daughter Marquita Springfield (Torey Oliver). Arnold had 7 grandchildren: Larisha Jones, Laquita Jones, Kennedy Corand, Caden Corand, Kingston Corand, Cloves Corand, and Asher Caleb Parham. He is survived by his sisters, Gloria Bailey, Nadine Bailey, Elois Bailey, Regenia Akers, Valarie Mack; his nieces and nephews, Keshon Lee, Shonnel Mack, Lamarenee Williams, Pierra Parham, Cherri Parham, Ciara Parham and Amia Parham; his aunt, Shirley (Carter) Baker; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Callie and James Springfield; and sisters- in-law and brothers-in-law, Cynthia (Michael) Green, Doris (Jerry) Reid, James Larry (Willie Bell) Springfield, Michael C. Springfield, Jeffery (Sherry) Springfield, Gussie (Jimmie) Springfield, Danny (Sara) Springfield, Christa (Darrin) Springfield. Arnold said to all his nieces and nephews and friends, “I love you and I’ll miss you.”
Arnold’s generosity extended beyond his immediate family to his nieces, nephews, and the countless friends and community members whose lives he touched. He was known for his loving demeanor, his readiness to share whatever he had, and his ability to bring laughter and joy to any situation. These qualities made Arnold not just respected but deeply loved by all who knew him.
In his passing, Arnold leaves behind a void that cannot be filled. Yet, his legacy endures through the lives he touched and the memories that will continue to inspire and comfort those who were fortunate enough to know him. The world is undoubtedly a better place because of Arnold Parham’s presence in it.
As we say goodbye to Arnold, we celebrate a life well-lived, marked by love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to others. Though he may be gone from our sight, his spirit will live on in the hearts of his beloved family and the community that he served with so much passion and dedication.
Arnold Parham will be deeply missed, but never forgotten, as his story continues to be told through the lives he shaped and the love he shared. May he rest in peace, knowing that his life was a beacon of hope and a source of endless joy to many.
A celebration of Arnold’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at Sunset Funeral Home with Pastor James Springfield and Reverend Griffin officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time.
Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com
Mrs. Mary Eldessa Powers Phillips, a resident of Skipperville, died Thursday, May 22, 2025, in Oakview Manor Healthcare Facility. She was 89 years old.
Funeral services for Mrs. Phillips will be 3:00 P. M. Sunday, May 25, 2025, from Skipperville Methodist Church with Reverend Gail Joyner officiating. Interment will follow in Skipperville Community Cemetery, Holman Funeral Home of Ozark directing.
The family will receive friends in the church Sunday from 2:00 P.M. until service time.
Mrs. Phillips was born January 23, 1936 in Dale County, Alabama to the late Glenn Powers and Lois Andrews Powers. She was a life-long resident of Dale County where she worked as Lunchroom Supervisor at G. W. Long School for twenty-five years and retired in 1997. Mrs. Phillips was a very active member of Skipperville Methodist Church where she served in various positions including Sunday School Teacher and Chairman of Trustees when the new sanctuary was renovated.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one sister, Emily Lois Maheu; one brother, John Foster Powers; her grandson, Robert Bailey “Rob” Camarata; great granddaughter, Allison Grace Camarata; and great grandson, Jack Martin.
Survivors include her husband of 71 years, Ralph Phillips of Skipperville; two daughters, Pam Martin (JP) of Wetumpka, Alabama and JoAnn Camarata (Bill) of Skipperville; one son, Glenn Phillips (Carol) of Dothan; two sisters, Cathy Williams (Fred) of Midland City and Sharon Enfinger of Alabaster, Alabama; one brother, Stanford Powers (Sherrie) of Ewell; grandchildren, Jason Martin (Meredith), Katie Davis (Hamp), Ryan Phillips (Leigh), Tyler Phillips (Kelsi), Megan Phillips and Bill Camarata. Nine great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews also survive.
The family would like to thank Kathy Johnson and Community Hospice along with the staff of Oakview Manor for their loving care. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made in her memory to Skipperville Community Cemetery, P. O. Box 214, Skipperville, Alabama 36374; or to the Skipperville Methodist Church Building Fund, 5189 AL Hwy 105, Skipperville, Alabama 36374.
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.
