Lifelong Dothan resident James P. Hall, Sr. died on January 3, 2025.
Funeral services will be at First United Methodist Church on Friday, January 10, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. with Dr. David R. Saliba officiating and Glover Funeral Home directing. Visitation with the family will be in the parlor following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church at 1380 W. Main Street, Dothan, AL 36303.
Mr. Hall was born in Dothan on December 30, 1931, to Harry and Edith Hall. He attended Dothan City Schools and graduated from Dothan High School in 1950. One of his favorite childhood memories was when he had a pet alligator that he kept at home until it was too large to be around people. He attended Auburn University where he was a member of the Sigma Nu Fraternity. Jim decided to serve his country and joined the army where he served in the Panama Canal Zone. When he returned from the Army he attended the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania where he graduated with a B.S. degree in Economics.
He returned to Dothan to work in real estate with the Harry Hall Company and Hall-Diamond Real Estate. He wanted to try his hand at manufacturing, so he created Hall Plastics Co. manufacturing plastic components for furniture and home goods which he shipped all over the country. When the oil embargo of the 70’s made it impossible to find raw materials for plastics he started a career selling New York Life Insurance that he continued until his retirement in 2016. Jim loved golfing with the “Church Group” at the Dothan Country Club every week and had many cherished friends in that group. After being a golfer for most of his life, Jim decided to quit golf and try tennis, so he joined a tennis group at age 70 and played for many more years.
While he enjoyed his business and his sports, he loved his church. He was a dedicated member of First United Methodist Church for over 60 years. He served in many roles including as an usher until three years ago, a member of the Pathfinders Sunday School Class, United Methodist Men, Wednesday Morning Men’s Bible Study, Chairman of the Administrative Board, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, and as a Sunday School teacher for over 20 years. Jim also served his larger church by working with the Alabama-West Florida Conference as Chairman of the District Board of Trustees for over 10 years and as District Lay Speaker Co-Coordinator. He served the Alabama-West Florida Conference as a member of the Alabama Methodist Homes for the Aging Board for 17 years.
Jim loved Dothan and served his city in many ways. Included in his civic contributions were his service as a Dothan City Commissioner, Dothan’s Police Commissioner, Chairman of the Organizing Committee and the 1st President of the Wiregrass Boys and Girls Club Board, service with the United Way as treasurer for five years and President for one. He was an active Rotarian for most of his adult life and loved this organization. He served on the Rotary Board of Directors and as President as well as other capacities with the Dothan Rotary Club. He was deeply honored when his fellow Rotarians made him a Paul Harris Fellow. Jim felt called to spread the good news of Jesus so he organized and worked for seven years to bring the Billy Graham Crusade to Dothan in 2017. For many years Jim would go to the Houston County Jail on Wednesday nights to preach the word of God to the inmates there and continued to receive letters from these men letting him know the impact his witness had on them and how they had turned their lives around. He worked with the Gideon’s in Dothan to distribute bibles all over this area. He loved to give people he met copies of Jesus Calling as a way to help others and to be a quiet witness. He gave copies of Jesus Calling to the people who helped take care of him right up to the end of his life. He truly loved going to Respite at FUMC during the latter years of his life. In a time when his activities were so limited, this was his favorite and something he looked forward to each day he would go.
Jim loved his wife of 58 years, Marion Grant Hall, his children and grandchildren, Auburn Football and Basketball but above all else, he loved the Lord, and he never forgot his responsibility to his savior Jesus.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Marion Grant Hall, his parents Harry P. Hall and Edith Cottingham Hall and his brother Robert Bruce Hall. He is survived by his sister Harriet Diamond (Chip) of Atlanta and his children Adam Grant Hall, (Melissa), of Newton, Harry Preston Hall II (Jenna) of Dothan, James Philip Hall Jr. of Hobbs, NM and Catherine Hall Kirpalani (Bob) of Birmingham. He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Ashley Logan (William), Lauren Hall, Courtney Hall, Mary Grant Hall, Preston Hall, Mitchell Barbaree and Grayson Barbaree as well as three great grandchildren: Jack Logan, Elizabeth Logan and Anna Logan.
His family would like to thank the staff of Henry County Nursing & Rehab as well as Southern Care Hospice for their amazing kindness and skill through this difficult time.
Glover Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 699-3888. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com
ABBEVILLE… Sara L. Hardamon, a resident of Abbeville, Alabama, passed away Friday morning, January 3, 2025, at a Dothan hospital. She was 85.
A memorial service will be held 11:00 A.M. Thursday, January 9, 2024, at Wright Funeral Home & Crematory Chapel with Reverend Eddie Thomas officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. Wright Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.
Mrs. Hardamon was born in Henry County, Alabama to the late Ed Sanders and Martha Carter. She lived in Abbeville, Alabama her entire life. She was a 1960 graduate of the Henry County Training School. She retired from the Henry County Board of Education, where she had served in the Abbeville Elementary School cafeteria for over twenty-two years. She was a very active member of the Mary Magdalene Baptist Church in Abbeville, Alabama.
Along with her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, John R. “Sporty” Hardamon and adopted parents Angus and Irena Lawson. .
Leaving to cherish her memories is her daughters, Beverly Hardamon and Tina Hardamon; her sons, Timothy Hardamon and John R. Hardamon (Kimberly); her sisters, Annie Lois Cobb (William), Nella Gilmore, and Willie Mae Newsome (Raymond); her brothers, Robert Carter, Cliff Sanders (Melissa), and Ike Sanders; her sisters-in-law, Climmie Cornish (Louis) and Ida Lawson; her brother-in-law, Chuck Adams; her grandchildren, Chandra Lawrence, Jay Bighem, Deon Hardamon (Shardae), Terrence Hardamon (Shimar), Eldridge Hardamon (Ranequa), and Jamerius Hardamon; her great-grandchildren, Zoe Hardamon, Dean Hardamon, Gabby Hardamon, Maddy Hardamon, Bryson Hardamon, Brooklyn Hardamon, Chantiess Lawrence, Kyjuan Kinsey, and Jada Danzey; and her several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Frances Ellison Bailey, a spirited and faith-filled soul, completed her earthly journey on January 3, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on April 10, 1935, in the warm and welcoming community of Headland, Alabama, Frances was a beacon of strength and independence throughout her life. Her final days were spent in Dothan, Alabama, surrounded by the love and care of her family and friends.
Frances, known for her strong will and headstrong nature, navigated life on her own terms. She was a proud graduate of Headland High School and moved to Dothan in the 1950s, where she would go on to establish a remarkable career. For 35 years, Frances dedicated herself to her role as an Office Manager at Dothan Manufacturing, where her diligence and professionalism were a testament to her work ethic.
Her passion for life extended beyond her professional endeavors. Frances was an avid sports fan, with a particular love for NASCAR and football. Sundays were sacred to her, reserved for watching the races and cheering on her favorite player, Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs. Her commitment to her faith was equally evident, as she would also partake in four different church services every Sunday morning on television.
Frances’s commitment to her community was demonstrated through her active involvement in various associations. She was a cherished member of Southside Baptist Church and was a member of the First United Methodist Church. She also enjoyed her Garden Club for years. Her community spirit also shown brightly when she and Selden actively supported The Elks Club. Beyond her social engagements, Frances was deeply dedicated to her family, especially in caring for her mother at Extendicare for over a decade before her passing.
Remembered by her family as the happiest when surrounded by loved ones, Frances’s presence at family functions was always a source of joy. She leaves behind a legacy of love and caring that will be cherished by her sisters, Charlotte Williams and Monette Crowder; brothers, Danny Earl Ellison, Larry Ellison, and Jerry Ellison; several nieces and nephews, including her special niece, Scarlett McDaniel; her dear friends, Anna Jane Owens and Lawanda Henderson, and by her stepchildren, Dean Bailey, Chip Bailey, and Carol Calton. Frances joins her husband, Selden Bailey, her parents, James and Daisy Peterson Ellison, her siblings Joan Prophitt, Sarah Parramore, and Billy Ellison, who preceded her in death.
A celebration of Frances’s life will be held at 2 pm on Monday, January 6, 2025, at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Lynn Nesbitt officiating. Visitation for family and friends will precede the service from 1-2 pm. Frances will then be laid to rest in Memory Hill Cemetery in a private ceremony on Tuesday morning, where she will be remembered for her passionate and spirited nature. In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be made to The Salvation Army, https://www.salvationarmyusa.org
It is said that “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” This quote by Steve Jobs encapsulates the essence of Frances’s approach to her life and career. Her love for what she did, her dedication to her family, and her unwavering faith were the cornerstones of a life well-lived her own way.
Frances Bailey’s memory will be carried forward by all who knew her as a remarkable woman whose life was filled with purpose, care, and an unyielding zest for the things she loved. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have felt her influence.
Raymond Elmore, a lifelong resident of Dothan, Alabama, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on April 4, 1948, to the late Leroy and Edna Mae Kent Elmore, Raymond was a man whose gentle demeanor and friendly nature left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Raymond was born April 4th, 1948 in Dothan, AL to the late Leroy Elmore and Edna Mae Kent of Dothan. He attended Rose Hill Elementary School and New Hope Technical Institute where he would make bicycles. He has worked at The Cover Shop and Swedish Match through the years. Raymond loved to fish, eat oysters at his favorite restaurant Hunt’s, ride his bicycle, hang out with his friends while drinking beer and chewing his tobacco. Raymond was cared and loved for by so many. He was always appreciative and humble.
A devoted husband, Raymond is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Maxine Elmore. The couple shared a profound bond from their youth, navigating the journey of life side by side with unwavering love and commitment. He is also preceded in death by his parents, Leroy and Edna Kent Elmore, by his sister, Carolyn Gail Elmore Johnson, by his brothers, Howard Elmore, Rex Elmore, Larry Elmore, and Gary Elmore; and a very special aunt, Earlene McLin. Raymond is survived by his brother, Kenny Elmore, by his sister, Belinda (Robert) Bodiford, nieces, Angela (Michael) Llewellyn, his great niece, Reagan Early (Patrick) McGregor, numerous other nieces and nephews, his cousins, Glenda and Justin Wynn, and friend and caregiver, Michelle McGregor (Jimmy Deese).
Raymond’s character was defined by his humbleness and gratitude. Never one to seek the spotlight, he was nonetheless the heart of any gathering, bringing laughter and warmth to those around him. His presence was a comfort, his friendship a gift, and his generosity knew no bounds.
A graveside service to honor and celebrate Raymond’s life will be held at 3:30 pm on Monday, January 6, 2025, at Sunset Memorial Park. The service will be officiated by Pastor Billy Gene Dickerson, who will share memories of Raymond’s kind and thoughtful nature with those gathered to remember a life well-lived.
Raymond Elmore will be remembered as a friendly and generous soul, a man who made a positive difference in the lives of others through simple acts of kindness and a heart full of love. His legacy of warmth and thoughtfulness will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.
As we bid farewell to Raymond, we hold on to the cherished memories and the exemplary life he led. His spirit, characterized by friendliness, generosity, and thoughtfulness, will live on in the hearts of his loved ones and the community of Dothan that was his home for 76 remarkable years.
Danny Rex Fulford of Clayhatchee, AL passed away at his home on Friday, January 3, 2025. He was 70.
Memorial services will be held at 3:00 PM, Sunday, January 5, 2024 at Providence Baptist Church with Rev Chad Hixson and Rev. Kevin Woodcock officiating and Searcy Funeral Home and Crematory directing. The family will receive friends at the church from 2:00 PM until service time.
Danny was known for his talent as a floral designer. He spent his early years working at local florists. He later worked as a floral designer for Hall Wholesale. He served his community as an active participant in the restoration and implementation of the Old Providence Church. He served his community with pride and determination. Danny was a friend to all he met.
Danny was preceded in death by his father, Rex Fulford and a nephew, Justin Fulford.
Survivors include his mother, Jerry Fulford, Clayhatchee, AL; brother, Kevin Fulford, Clayhatchee, AL; 2 nephews, Cole Fulford (Kayla) and Phillip Fulford; 2 aunts, Julia Fulford and Ree Rodgers; grandniece, Elizabeth Fulford; grandnephew, Brody Quattlebaum; and several cousins.
You may sign the register book or send condolences to the family at our website: www.searcyfuneralhome.com .
JoAnn L. Stewart, age 80, of Jack, AL, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, January 1, 2025. She passed away peacefully at Elba Nursing and Rehabilitation Center with her last days spent surrounded by family.
Funeral services will be held at 1:30 PM, Sunday, January 5, 2025, at New Hope Baptist Church with Rev. Lanny Shepard officiating. Burial will follow in New Hope Baptist Church Cemetery with Searcy Funeral Home and Crematory directing. The family will receive friends at the church from 12:30 P.M. until service time. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the New Hope Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 5711 County Road 114, Brundidge, AL 36010.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, William Harold Stewart, and parents, Jim and Evelyn Brown Lewis. Mrs. Stewart was a native of Geneva, AL.
Survivors include her daughter, Janet Stewart, Troy, AL; son, Michael Stewart (Nanna), Jack, AL; grandson, Ty Stewart, Elmore, AL; granddaughter, Taylor Felts, Birmingham, AL; and great-grandson, Kade Stewart.
You may sign the register book or send condolences to the family at our website: www.searcyfuneralhome.com.
