Marilyn Mae McLendon, affectionately known as Marilyn by all who knew her, passed away on January 6, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 60. Born on January 22, 1964, in Hartford, Alabama, Marilyn’s early years were filled with the warmth of a close-knit community and the love of her family.
Marilyn’s life was characterized by her dedication to her work and her family. Her career in the restaurant industry spanned over 25 years, during which she left a lasting impression as the manager of Sonny’s BBQ. She was known for her tireless work ethic and her ability to lead with both firmness and kindness. In addition to her professional pursuits, Marilyn devoted several years to caring for senior citizens, providing comfort and companionship to those in the twilight of their lives.
Her indomitable spirit was matched by a voice that could fill any room with laughter and warmth. Marilyn was never one to shy away from expressing her opinions, and her candidness was one of the many qualities that drew people to her. Her sense of humor was undeniable and her laughter was infectious, making every encounter with her a memorable one.
As a mother, Marilyn was unparalleled. She nurtured her three daughters, Leona Ann Colon, Tabitha Elaine Peairs, and Laurel Denise Peairs, with an unwavering presence and a heart full of love. Her role as a grandmother to her six grandchildren—Lucas Ross, Olivia Colon, Keegan Ross, Merida Ross, Jax Foster, and Madilynn Beard—was one she cherished above all else. Marilyn’s joy was most evident in the time she spent with them, whether it was a quiet afternoon coloring or assembling puzzles, or the loud and lively family gatherings that she so loved.
Marilyn’s interests reflected her creative and thoughtful nature. Her love for owls was more than a simple fascination; it became a signature motif that could be seen in her extensive collection of owl-themed items. Each piece was a testament to her appreciation for the unique and the beautiful.
Marilyn’s legacy is carried on by her devoted husband, Randall McLendon, her loving daughters, her six grandchildren, her sisters Michelle McClellan and Melissa Millard, as well as several nieces and nephews. Each family member can attest to the incredible impact Marilyn had on their lives, shaping them with her strength, her creativity, and her boundless love.
A celebration of Marilyn’s life will be held at 2 pm on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel. Friends and loved ones are invited to join the family in honoring Marilyn’s memory from 1-2 pm at the funeral home.
Marilyn McLendon’s life was one of laughter, love, and the courage to be unapologetically herself. Her voice, both literal and figurative, will echo in the hearts of those she touched for years to come. As we gather to remember her, we hold tight to the memories of the funny, thoughtful, and creative woman who brightened every corner of our world. Though she has left us, her spirit remains a guiding light that will continue to inspire and comfort us all.
William Randall “Randy” LaPoint, a cherished husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2025, in Midland City, Alabama, at the age of 68. Born on March 17, 1956, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, Randy grew up to be a man of strong character, loving spirit, and an enduring passion for life’s simple pleasures.
Randy graduated from high school in his home state of New Mexico before proudly serving his country in the Army for three years. After his military service, he furthered his education by obtaining a machinist certificate at Wallace Community College in Dothan. He married the love of his life, Barbara LaPoint, and together they created a beautiful blended family. Randy’s career as a machinist was marked by dedication and skill, and he worked in this field for several years in Dothan. Later in life, he embarked on a new adventure, team truck driving with his beloved wife, Barbara. Together, they covered countless miles until his well-deserved retirement in 2019.
Randy is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Jila LaPoint, a brother, Sonny LaPoint, and a son, Michael “Aaron” Jackson. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Barbara LaPoint, children, Robert “Daniel” Jackson (Kim), Amanda (Daniel) Roach, brother, Steve (Hideko) LaPoint, five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Randy’s interests were as varied as they were passionate. He was an avid music lover, a collector of coins, newspapers, and magazines, and a true history buff. These hobbies brought him immense joy and were a way for him to connect with others, sharing stories and knowledge with anyone who showed interest.
As we say goodbye to Randy, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of moments that will be cherished by his family and friends. His memory will live on in the stories told, the lessons learned, and the love he shared. Randy’s journey through life was one of purpose and joy, and while he will be deeply missed, the imprint he left on our hearts is indelible.
Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com
Donald Wayne Peters, 66, a resident of Ashford, passed away on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at his residence with his loving family by his side.
Donald was born on March 9, 1958, in Columbus, Georgia to the late Dorothy Peters. During his early years, he lived around Florida and Alabama, and attended Ashford High School. Life later led him to Michigan, where he married Lila J. Rowley. While up north, he was a factory worker for ITT Automotive in Tawas City, Michigan, and also worked for Tuxedo World as a delivery driver during his 14 years there.
In 2001, Donald and his family relocated to Ashford, where they have remained. During his time in Ashford, he worked for Carroll Tire and Ansleys Building Materials as a delivery driver. In his free time, Donald enjoyed going to the fleamarket to sell and buy for his diecast collection. He loved his family, and especially his grandson, Phillip, whom he considered the light of his life.
He is preceded by his parents, James Gordy & Dorothy Peters; his mother and father-in-law, NJ & Ruth Rowley; his two brothers-in-law, Joseph Rowley, and Phillip Shelton.
He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Lila J. Peters of Ashford; his daughter, Christine Peters of Ashford; his son, Nathan Peters, of Dothan; two brothers, Ronald Peters (Terri) of Webb, and Mitchell Gordy of Cowarts; three sisters, Tina Free of Cowarts, Lisa Smith (Cliff) of Webb, and Sheila Rodgers of Dothan; his step-brother, Jim Gordy (Charlotte) of Phenix City; and the light of his life and grandson, Phillip Peters; his two sisters-in-laws, Delores Shelton, and Sandra Walsh both of Michigan; and several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Savannah of Centerwell Homehealth for the love and care shown to their loved one during this difficult time.
The family will host a Celebration of Life Service on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the family home.
Glover Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 699-3888. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com
Keith Evan Webb, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on January 4, 2025, at the age of 50, while at his beloved Hunting Club in Shorterville. Born on April 10, 1974, in Dothan, Alabama, Keith’s life was marked by his loving nature, gentle spirit, and selfless dedication to those around him.
Funeral Services will be held at 11 A.M. Saturday, January 11, 2025, at Rehobeth Baptist Church with Pastor Chad Hixson officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Enon Baptist Church Cemetery with Ward Wilson Funeral Home directing.
The family will receive friends Friday, January 10, 2025, from 4:00 – 6:00 P.M. at Ward Wilson Funeral Home Chapel.
Keith grew up in the warm embrace of a close-knit family in Dothan, where he attended Rehobeth High School, graduating with the class of 1992. He was a natural entrepreneur, taking over his grandfather’s business, Bama Pest Control at the young age of 18, a business he would passionately lead throughout his life. His work was not just a job; it was a reflection of his commitment to serving his community and helping others.
He was preceded in death by his loving grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. W.E. Dooling and Mr. and Mrs. John Dalton Webb; his cousin, Jason Dooling; his uncle, Donnie Givens; and his aunt, Linda Stewart. They, along with the many friends and family who have gone before him, will no doubt welcome him with open arms.
Surviving Keith is his devoted wife and soulmate of 20 years, Mandy Webb, who stood by his side in every adventure life brought their way. He was a proud father to Hunter Wise (Courtney) and Mallory Webb, and an adoring grandfather to Riley Wise. His parents, Kenneth and Dianne Webb, will remember him as the son who brought immeasurable joy into their lives. Keith was a supportive brother to Kevin Webb (Gena) and Kyle Webb (Sherry), and a fun-loving uncle to his nieces, Grayci and Olivia Webb, and nephews, JonDalton Webb, Kooper Webb, Zach Blankenship, and Zane Rogero. His father and mother-in-law, Charlie and Beverly Blankenship, cherished him as their own. Keith’s best friend, Tony Perry, and his loyal dog, Baxter, will miss his companionship and unwavering loyalty.
Keith’s life was one of active engagement with the world around him. He was a fixture at The Hunting Club in Shorterville, where he pursued his passion for the outdoors. An avid outdoorsman, Keith found solace in hunting turkey and deer, fishing, and simply being on the lake. His love for the outdoors was only matched by his love for his family and friends. He was known to give the shirt off his back to anyone in need, a testament to his generous spirit.
A man of faith, Keith was an active member of Rehobeth Baptist Church, where he found strength and community. His faith was a guiding force in his life, inspiring him to live with kindness and grace.
Keith’s legacy is one of love and service. He was the kind of man who not only loved his family fiercely but also extended that love to his community. He was a mentor to many, always ready with a helping hand or a word of encouragement. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him, but his memory will continue to inspire those he left behind.
Mr. Michael John Covey passed away on Monday, January 06, 2025. He was 68.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Thursday, January 09, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. from the chapel of Warren Holloway Ward Funeral Home in Geneva with Rev. Zachary Hayes officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m. The family will receive flowers or memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in Michael’s memory.
Michael was born in Nuremberg, Germany on December 04, 1956 to Dianne Lou Anderson Covey and the late Duane Merel Covey. He was retired from the US Army as a Construction Engineer Supervisor after 20 years of service. After his military career, he worked as a meat cutter with Reinhart Foods. He was an avid Vikings Football fan, and enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
In addition to his father, Michael was preceded in death by two granddaughters, Helen Margaret Rupel and Kami Rupel.
Michael is survived by three daughters, Bonnie C. Baxley (Wade) of Geneva, AL, Jennifer C. Rupel (Bryan) of Columbus, GA and Patricia C. Gilmore (Sean) of Chancellor, AL; six grandchildren, Brinson and Halen Baxley, Truett Gilmore, Kipten, Nolan and Briggs Rupel; mother, Dianne Covey of LaCrescent, MN; three siblings, Sherrie Gjere of Spring Grove, MN, Kimberly Covey (Kurt) of LaCrescent, MN and Jeff Covey (Debbie) of LaCrescent, MN; step-mother, Linda Covey of Caledonia, MN; special friends, Steve and Robyn Phillips of Hokah, MN and Jim and Kim Scholze of Hokah, MN; and host of special nieces, nephews, extended family and friends also survive.
MSG EDWARD E GOODWAY JR, US ARMY Ret. – a 84- year-old native of Dothan, AL
and longtime resident of Panama City, Florida passed away
January 6, 2025. Mr. Goodway was born in New Jersey, September 1,
1940, where he lived until joining the Army at age 17.
Mr. Goodway, a 3x veteran of the Vietnam War, where he earned a Bronze Star and the
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Medal w/ Palm 2 times, retired as a Master
Sergeant from the United States Army after 20 years of service. He visited many
countries and was stationed all over the United States before retiring at Ft. Rucker,
Alabama. After the Army, he taught ROTC and then joined the Daleville Police
Dept/Dept of Public Safety where he served as Major and Chief, before retiring after 20
years. He was also a long-standing member of the Scottish Rites Masonic Lodge for
over 50 years.
Mr. Goodway was a fun-loving adventurous man, as was evident in his life. He was a
regular on the American Bandstand in the 1950’s. He was an automobile/drag racing
enthusiast, he enjoyed racing in his younger days…winning many trophies. He also
loved to fly. He got his fixed wing license and enjoyed taking family sightseeing in
Alaska and Alabama. He was a loving man who enjoyed life and spending time with his
family and friends. He enjoyed reading, playing games with family, and joking around.
He also thoroughly enjoyed the water (boating, skiing) and has requested that his ashes
be scattered in the ocean.
He is preceded by his parents Edward E. Goodway Sr. and Frances (Statler) Goodway
of New Jersey and survived by his children, Cheryl Hower (Sam) of Cassopolis,
Michigan, Denise Reed (Keith) of Dothan, Alabama, Teraysa Forrester (Kenneth) of
Dothan, Alabama and Marlo Goodway of Daphne, Alabama. 6 Grandchildren; 12 great-
grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans
(D.A.V.) or any POW/MIA support organization. Condolences may be offered
at fowlerfamilyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Fowler Family Funeral Home.
