Johnny Wayne Baker, known affectionately to friends and family as J.B., passed away on April 18, 2025, in Dothan, AL, at the age of 90. Born on November 6, 1934, in Donalsonville, GA, J.B. was a man whose life was defined by his unwavering kindness, selflessness, and generosity.
J.B. was the beloved patriarch of a family that cherished him deeply. He is survived by his wonderful children, Pamela K. Baker (Bob Carter), Phillip Wayne Baker (Amy Cobb), and Keith A. Baker (Lynda). His legacy continues through his six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, who will miss their grandfather’s gentle guidance and enduring love. He is also survived by his sister in law, Phyllis Baker. J.B. was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 68 years, Janice Baker, who was his partner in life and business, by his parents, James Murphy Baker and Mary Lucy Baker; and his siblings, Tommy Baker (Betty), Larry Baker, and Linda Sue Baker.
A proud veteran, J.B. retired from the National Guard, having served his country with honor and distinction. His work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit led him to open Baker Hauling, a testament to his dedication and hard work. Alongside his wife, he later established Circle City Transport in 1986, a trucking company that became a respected name in the industry. J.B.’s commitment to his business was second only to his commitment to his family, whom he always sought to provide with the best life possible. When he was not working, he could be found drag racing with his son. He began this hobby in 1992 and it led him to traveling all over and winning the World Championship of Drag Racing in Texas.
J.B. was the rock of his family, a man who led by example and demonstrated what it meant to be dedicated to one’s loved ones. His interests were simple yet profound: he was a kind soul who worked tirelessly, not for personal gain, but to ensure that his family was well cared for and happy. His selfless nature was evident in every aspect of his life, from the way he ran his businesses to the way he interacted with those around him.
Those who knew J.B. would describe him as the epitome of kindness. His generous spirit was felt by all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with him. He was a man who gave without expecting anything in return, and his impact on his community and family is immeasurable.
Annette Drew Granberry, a resident of Dothan, died Sunday, April 20, 2025 at Extendicare Health and Rehab. She was 90.
Funeral services for Annette will be held at 11 AM Thursday, April 24, 2025 at Ridgecrest Baptist church with Pastor Ray Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Memory Hill cemetery. The family will receive friends from 9:30 AM until 10:45 AM prior to the service at the church.
Annette was born in Dothan, March 31, 1935 to the late Robert E. and Bessie Richards Drew. She attended Houston County High School and later graduated from Auburn University in 1957 with a degree in Home Economics. She married following her graduation and taught school in Alabama, North Carolina, Texas and Mississippi. Annette was a member of Ridgecrest Baptist where she taught Sunday School and volunteered at Extendicare. She loved her family and enjoyed time spent with them. Annette loved everyone BIG and her Jesus too.
Annette is preceded in death by her parents; husband, B. Wayne Granberry and her siblings, Betty Martin, Johnny Drew and Bobby Yance.
Survivors include her children, Glen Granberry (Lori), Julie Simmons (Edward Robinson); grandchildren, Neil Granberry (Allyn), Carley Peacock, Stevie Fleming (Jason) and Emma Granberry; one great grandchild, Ivey Teen Peacock.
OZARK…Martha Ann Sanders Morgan, a resident of the Post Oak Community, near Ozark, died Sunday morning, April 20, 2025, in Ozark. She was 57.
In keeping with the wishes of the family, there are no public services planned at this time. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.
Ms. Morgan was born June 16, 1967 in Ozark, where she has lived her entire lifetime. She was formerly employed with Fruit of the Loom in Brundidge as a sewing machine operator. Martha enjoyed playing bingo and was known to her family as the “Bingo Queen” and enjoyed going to casinos. She was preceded in death by her father, Lewie Sanders.
Surviving relatives include her son, Dallas L. Morgan, Ozark; mother, Edna Earl Sanders, Ozark; grandson, Gavin Wesdin Williams; sister, Becky Stokes, Ozark; four brothers, John Sanders, David Sanders, William Sanders, all of Ozark and Lurie Sanders, Little Rock, Arkansas; nieces, nephews, and cousins
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
Rebecca Ann Jones passed away peacefully on April 20, 2025, at Southeast Health. Born on October 14, 1948, in Donalsonville, Georgia, Rebecca’s life was a testament to the power of caring and devotion.
A memorial service will be held at Ward Wilson Funeral Home Chapel at 2 PM Saturday, April 26, 2025. The family will receive friends from 1-2 PM in the chapel. Flowers will be accepted.
Rebecca was preceded in death by her parents, Burt and Emma Ellis Cloud, and her sisters, Louise Lomineck, Edell Worthy, and Eunice Hessert. She is survived by her daughter, Tonya May, and her husband, Kerry. She was a cherished grandmother to Caitlyn Jones, Jordan, and Ryder May. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she devoted herself to their happiness and well-being.
Rebecca, known for her loving nature, was a caregiver by profession, a role that suited her innate ability to provide comfort and support to those around her. Rebecca found joy in the simple things, her garden was a place of tranquility and beauty, reflecting her love for nurturing. She was an excellent cook, and her kitchen was the heart of her home, where family and friends gathered to enjoy her delicious meals and the warmth of her company.
She was a woman who cherished her family above all else, and her presence was a comforting embrace to all who knew her. Her legacy is one of love, care, and the gentle touch of a woman who made the world a better place simply by being in it.
As we bid farewell to Rebecca Ann Jones, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a heart that gave so generously. She will be deeply missed, but her loving spirit will forever be remembered and felt by those who were fortunate enough to have known her.
Mark E. Brooks, age 60, a resident of both Dothan, Alabama and Bristow, Virginia, passed away on April 12, 2025 and went to be with the Lord. A fearless adventurer, devoted father, loving grandfather, faithful Christian, and loyal friend, Mark lived his life boldly to the very end.
A celebration of his life will be held Saturday, April 26th at Ward Wilson Funeral Home in Dothan, Alabama. Visitation will be at 10 AM with the service following at 11 AM.
Born on April 7, 1965, in Ozark, Alabama, to Edsel and Mildred Brooks, Mark spent his younger years in Florida, where his love for the outdoors and high-speed adventures first took root. He later made his home in Virginia, and after retirement, also in Alabama. Throughout his life, he was deeply connected to the natural world and those around him.
A lifelong thrill-seeker, Mark found joy in motorcycle riding, dirt biking, mountain biking, fishing, hunting, water skiing, and snow skiing. He was also a proud member of a close-knit group of competitive motorcycle riders, with whom he shared countless memories, challenges, and triumphs on and off the track
He was a gifted photographer with an artistic eye and a deep appreciation for beauty and nature. He had an innate curiosity and love of learning; he was a talented artist, taught himself to play guitar, and in his younger years practiced martial arts.
During his time in Dothan, he built a community of friends. He had many activities, but he spent most of his days volunteering at Forever Wild trails, assisting in improvements, maintenance, and riding the trails. He attended both Harvest Church and Ridgecrest Baptist Church.
Mark was a skilled software engineer who built a successful and well-respected career before retiring in 2020. Thanks to his hard work and determination, he was able to retire early and spent the past five years enjoying life on his own terms.
Mark’s outgoing personality and quick wit drew people in wherever he went. He built a strong community of friends and lived his life with passion, courage, and curiosity.
He will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his daughter, Mikayla (Long) Pham; a granddaughter, Edith Pham; his sister, Pamela (Jimmy) Franklin; his niece Jessica (Tanner) Barefield and their children; his nephew Zane (Vivian) Franklin, and their children.
In lieu of flowers, our family welcomes donations made in Dad’s name to SAM Dothan, an organization he was deeply committed to. He was one of the lead volunteers for trail maintenance, and all proceeds will go toward the upkeep of those trails he cared so much about. Donations can be made here: https://samdothan.org/make-a-donation/.
John H. White, a resident of Dothan, died April 19, 2025 at his residence following a brief illness. He was 91.
Funeral services for Mr. White will be held at 2 PM Wednesday, April 23, 2025 in Clearman Chapel with Reverend Billy Rich and Jim Corley officiating. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1 PM until 1:45 PM prior to the service at the funeral home.
John was born January 15, 1934 in Graceville, Florida to the late Arthur and Lupher Smith White. He attended school in Wicksburg. Following graduation, he joined the United States Air Force and was stationed in Korea for 18 months and then a year and a half in Washington, D.C. as a security supervisor. He then spent 30 years with the Dothan Fire Department and worked his way up to Assistant Chief. Later he worked in Plumbing and Electric and retired at the age of 78. He was a member of Memphis Baptist church.
Mr. White is preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Debbie Farnsworth and a sister, Virginia White Johnson.
Survivors include his wife of 39 years Peggy White; children, Johnny (Bonnie), Mike (Becky) all of Columbia and Henry of Dothan; two step-sons, Tim (Kim) Shepard, Ozark, Tony (Tammy) Shepard of Dothan; a special niece, Ginny Johnson Morgan (Clint); 6 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren; special brother in law, Don Sanders (Deicy), Dothan.
The Dothan Fire Department will serve as pallbearers and honorary pallbearers will be, grandsons and Terry Mears.
