rickey@rickeystokesnews.com

Text Rickey: 334-790-1729

Monica Ann Durham Griffin

Monica Ann Durham Griffin

 Monica Ann Griffin of Westville, FL, born on July 16, 1958, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2025, surrounded by her family. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and servant of the Lord, she leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and dedication to others.

Monica lived a life of humility and hard work. She worked a variety of jobs throughout her life, including Russell Manufacturing in Geneva, AL. Upon its closing, with the encouragement of her husband, she returned to school and earned her teaching degrees. She began her teaching career at Bonifay Middle School, where she taught briefly before transferring to Ponce de Leon Elementary School. There, she spent almost 20 years loving, educating, and inspiring Little Pirates.

Loved deeply by her students, Monica had a gift for making them feel special and capable. They knew they were loved, and in return, they loved her. Each class she had the privilege to teach was touched by her kindness and dedication.

Though she served in many grades throughout her teaching career, her favorites were her 4th-grade science and social studies classes and her time teaching 2nd grade.

She was a dedicated member of West Pittman Baptist Church, where she served as the children’s Sunday school teacher. She taught the books of the Bible and the Disciple’s names. Her students at West Pittman could play Bible games and Bible Drills with expertise.

Though the community knew her as quiet and kind, her family was privileged to know the other sides of her—her humor, her stubbornness, and the wit that kept them laughing. She could be strong-willed, fiercely protective of those she loved, and always ready with a sharp remark or a playful joke.

She was married to Michael Stanley “Stan” Griffin for 38 years.

Monica was preceded in death by her parents, Harvey Allen Durham and Ann Leota Williams Durham.

She is survived by her husband, Stan, and her four children: Heather Gainey (Gina) of Pensacola, Florida; Holly Blane Culpepper (Grant) of Westville, Florida; Shannon Griffin White (Jared) of Ponce de Leon, Florida; and Henry Griffin (Summer) of Westville, Florida.

A devoted and proud grandmother, she leaves behind seven cherished grandchildren: Jayden Welcome White, Chloe Bijou Culpepper, Madison Snow White, Henry Austin Griffin II (Hank), Carmen Alana Culpepper, London Blaze Griffin, and Benjamin Blake Otha Griffin.She is also survived by her loving siblings, Leo Durham of DeFuniak Springs, Florida; Lin Mims (Johnny) of Bainbridge, Georgia; and Trina Durham of DeFuniak Springs, Florida, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

Monica was a woman of quiet strength, always moving where she was needed. She was a good friend—humble and kind—with a servant’s heart that guided her actions. Whether in the classroom, in her church, or with her family, she worked tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of those around her. Her hardworking spirit, gentle heart, and steadfast faith will live on in the many lives she touched. Her impact on her family, students, church, and community will never be forgotten.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at West Pittman Baptist Church with Rev. Daniel Smith officiating. Burial will follow in the Hurricane Creek Baptist Church Cemetery with Warren Holloway Ward Funeral Home of Geneva directing. The family will receive friends at the church on Thursday beginning at 2:00 p.m. Flowers will be accepted.

 

 

 

Mavis Inez Phillips Heath

Mavis Inez Phillips Heath

 

Mrs. Mavis Inez Phillips Heath of Samson, AL, passed away Friday, March 14, 2025. She was 67.

Graveside funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at Marvin Chapel Cemetery with Rev. Donnie Earles officiating. Burial will follow with Warren Holloway Ward Funeral Home of Geneva directing.

Mavis was born January 24, 1958 in Samson, AL to the late Ralph and Mildred Irene Young Phillips. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who enjoyed spending time with her family. She was an exceptional southern cook who made her famous homemade buttermilk biscuits for her family, their favorite. In her spare time, she enjoyed crafting, going to auctions, yard sales and just being with her family and friends.

In addition to her parents, Mavis was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy; son: Randy Bryant; daughter, Tanya Bryant; grandson, Branden Nelson; sister, Frances Johnson and nephew, Shannon Heath.

Mavis is survived by one daughter, Melinda Nelson, two stepchildren, Sheri Troublefield (Scotty), and Michael Heath all of Samson, AL; one daughter-in-law, Amy Heath of Samson, AL; 11 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and one on the way; four siblings, Betty Moody of Samson, AL, Jimmy Phillips of Gant, AL, James Thomas of Enterprise, AL and Patricia Broxson (Tommy) of Bellwood, AL.

Willa Dean Condrey

Willa Dean Condrey

 

Willa Dean Condrey, affectionately known as Dean, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025, in Birmingham, Alabama, surrounded by her children. Born on November 16, 1939, in Webb, Alabama, she was the cherished daughter of the late Allie and Terry Strickland. Her life was a testament to the love and devotion she held for her family and her unwavering faith in God.

Dean attended Cottonwood High School, where she laid the foundations for a life filled with love, hard work, and service. She was the matriarch of her family, a role she embraced with every fiber of her being. As a tireless servant of God, Dean’s love knew no bounds as she nurtured and cared for her family and friends. Her dedication to her children was evident in her loving survivors: Angeline (Richard) Gibson, Margie (Jimmie) Miller, Wanda Chesnut, and Tony Johnson. She was predeceased by her husband, Rev. Cecil Laverne Condrey and her son, George “Carey” Hall.

Dean’s siblings were a significant part of her life, and she is fondly remembered by Nina Sue Campbell, Linda B. Shepard, Brenda Joyce Jewel, Margaret Ann, Elisa Grier, Shelby Strickland, Robert Strickland, Larry Strickland, and John Allen Strickland. She was preceded in death by her sisters Shirley Hall, Sarah H. Raye, and her brothers Shelton and Clarence Strickland.

Her legacy continues through her adoring grandchildren Jacey Chesnut Murray, Victoria Hall, Trista Brophy Cerquera, Danielle MacPherson, Christopher (Mae-Gan) Mavromihalis, Jessie (Timothy) Martin, Zoe Nelson, and Jessica Gibson-Ware. She is also survived by many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Dean was preceded in death by her grandchildren Jacob Gibson and Jamie Fenn.

Dean’s life was one of service and joy. She loved to socialize and her presence in any room was comforting and uplifting. Her culinary talents were legendary, especially her famous cakes, and she relished in cooking huge meals, canning vegetables, and ensuring no one left her home hungry. Her voice was a staple in the church choir, where she found joy in singing and listening to gospel music.

A woman of many talents, Dean was an avid sewer and gardener, taking pride in her flower beds. Any visitor was likely to leave with a cutting or two. She also enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, such as fishing, camping, interior design, and caring for her pets. Her devotion and faith to God and her family were the center of her unwavering strength, courage, and endurance.

Faith-filled, loving, and selfless—these words best describe Dean. She had an unwavering work ethic, and slowing down was never an option for her. Dean believed in the power of love, and she lived by the principle that we should all love one another. Her ability to “steal your heart” was unparalleled, and she left an indelible imprint on the hearts of all who knew her.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Southeast Health ICU Nurses, The Cardiologist Team, and Dr. Nelson Gwinn for their compassionate care during her final days. Her life was a beautiful example of service and love, and her memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Willa Dean Condrey’s life was a journey of faith, love, and selfless devotion. As we bid her farewell, we take comfort in knowing that her spirit will live on through the many lives she touched. Her unwavering commitment to her family and God will never be forgotten, and her legacy will continue to shine as a beacon of hope and love for generations to come.

A celebration of Dean’s life will be held at 3pm on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Ed French officiating. The family will be receiving friends at the funeral home from 2-3pm prior to the service. Dean will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery.

Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com

Mary Frances Stringer Jordan

Mary Frances Stringer Jordan

Mary Frances Stringer Jordan of Geneva, AL passed away on Thursday, March 13, 2025. She was 88.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 22, 2025, in the chapel of Warren Holloway Ward Funeral Home with Rev. Red Coleman officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery with Warren Holloway Ward Funeral Home of Geneva directing. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday beginning at 9:00 a.m.

Frances was born in Crenshaw Co., AL on August 29, 1936, to the late Dewey and Jennie Stringer. Mrs. Jordan was an educator for over 45 years. She worked in various school systems throughout her working career. Her longest tenure was at James A Mulkey Elementary School in Geneva, AL where she taught math for 30 years. Mrs. “F” Jordan as she was affectionately called by her students at Mulkey had the privilege of teaching generations of families.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Billy Ray Jordan; one son, Timothy Ray ‘Timmy” Jordan; one daughter, Jennifer White; one grandson, Justin White; two brothers, Leon Stringer, and William Howard Stringer.

She is survived by three grandchildren, Mason White (Gracie), Carson White, and Blaze Neely; son-in-law, Dennis White (Jennifer); one niece, Dianne Wilhelm (David); six nephews, Ronnie Stringer, Garry Stringer, Leon Stringer (Debra), Michael Stringer, Ronald Stringer, and Darryl Stringer.

 

Warren~Holloway~Ward Funeral Home (334) 684-9999, is in charge of arrangements. “Continuing The Trust You’ve Placed In Us” To sign a guest register, please visit: www.whwfuneralhome.com

 

 

Daniel Mark “Ky” Deaver

Daniel Mark “Ky” Deaver

Daniel Mark “Ky” Deaver, a man known for his unwavering work ethic and kind-hearted nature, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama. Born on October 6, 1951, in Indiana, Ky’s life was a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact one can have on their community through a lifetime of dedicated service.

Ky, as he preferred to be called, was a proud graduate of Winter Haven High School, where he established the foundation of what would become a lifelong career in craftsmanship. His work as a general contractor and carpenter was not just a job but a passion that allowed him to connect with and enrich the lives of many. Ky’s hands were known to shape wood as deftly as he shaped the hearts of those around him.

His skills were matched only by his integrity and the respect he garnered from colleagues and friends. Ky’s commitment to excellence was evident in every project he undertook, leaving behind a legacy of sturdy foundations and well-built homes that will stand as a testament to his craft for generations to come.

Family was the cornerstone of Ky’s life. He is survived by his loving sisters, Valorie Chancey (Harold Jr.) and Tonya King. His memory will also be cherished by his brother, Derek Deaver. Ky now joins his brother, David Blane Deaver and sister, Debra Lynn Weeks Brown, who preceded him in death. Each family member carries forward the strength and love that Ky exemplified throughout his life.

Ky’s presence was a source of stability and support for his family. His laughter and stories, often shared at family gatherings, will be deeply missed but fondly remembered. His influence extended beyond bloodlines, touching the lives of all who knew him, whether through his work, his friendship, or his everyday kindness.

In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, “To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.” Ky’s life was a living embodiment of this sentiment. His generosity of spirit and willingness to lend a hand whenever needed made a significant difference in the lives of those he encountered.

As we bid farewell to Ky, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life filled with purpose, joy, and love. Though he has left this world, the memories and lessons he imparted will continue to inspire and guide us. Ky’s legacy is not just in the structures he built, but in the character he modeled and the community he helped to strengthen.

We take comfort in knowing that Ky’s journey was a remarkable one and that his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who had the pleasure of knowing him. His was a life of service, a life of friendship, and above all, a life of love.

As we reflect on Ky’s life, we are reminded of the indelible mark he has left on this world. He will be dearly missed, but his light will continue to shine in the works he created and the lives he touched. Rest in peace, Ky; your story is one of true success.

Sally Lou Culp of Tumbleton

SALLY LOU CULP

TUMBLETON…Sally Lou Culp, a resident of the Tumbleton Community of Henry County, Alabama, passed away Sunday night, March 16, 2025, at Wesley Place. She was 86.

Funeral services will be held 3:00 P.M. Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at Wright Funeral Home and Crematory Chapel with Reverend Joey Pettis officiating. Burial will follow in the Gardens of Memory Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 P.M. prior to the service. Burial will follow at Gardens of Memory Cemetery in Headland, Alabama. Wright Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.

Mrs. Culp was born in Henry County to the late Leonard Robinson and Ora Bell Hutto Robinson. She was a graduate of Abbeville High School. Ms. Culp was an active member of New Zion Free Will Baptist Church for many years and was an epitome of what a Christian woman should be. She was employed as a seamstress at West Point Stevens until her retirement. She was a pillar of strength, known for her loving heart, her gentle spirit, and her devotion to God and her family.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Billy Culp; and siblings, Minnie Rose McKinnon, Lois Gilder, and Ray Robinson.

Surviving relatives include her daughter, Renee Lingo (Mike) of Cottonwood; her sisters, Christine Clenney of Abbeville and Maurine Akins of Phenix City, AL; her brothers, Cecil Robinson and Bob Robinson, both of Abbeville; her sister-in-law, Shirley Robinson of Abbeville; her granddaughter, Ashton Mayo (Harris) of Headland; her great-grandchild, Fisher Mayo of Headland; and her several nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Serving as active pallbearers will be David Price, Harris Mayo, Jess McInnish, Mark Hanna, Kirby Shelley, and Irby Gilder.

WRIGHT FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY

Phone 334-6WE-CARE (693-2273)

www.wrightfuneralhomeandcrematory.com

…Celebrating a life, one family at a time…

Our establishment DOES OWN AND OPERATE ITS OWN CREMATORY, so your loved one never has to leave our care.