John D. Smith, of Dothan, AL, passed away Sunday, January 5, 2025, after a brief illness. He was 91 years old. Born in McCracken County, KY, on November 12, 1933, his life was marked by his love of family, learning, and sharing his wisdom with others.
After graduating from high school in 1952, then proudly earning his bachelor’s degree, John went on to obtain his Master’s Degree in Commercial Administration from the University of Detroit in 1965. He completed several courses toward his doctoral degree at the University of Illinois, Champaign Urbana before work transferred his family out of the area.
On June 20, 1959, he married Diana L. Kucinski, in Detroit, MI, and they remained together for more than 61 years, until her death in 2020. After living in several different areas of the Midwest, they settled in Traverse City, MI to raise their family. John was an accountant by trade, and he was active with the National Association of Professional Accountants. He was a past President of the Traverse City Exchange Club, a longtime member of the Elks Club, and a volunteer for the Father Fred Foundation.
Upon retirement, he and Diana moved to Dothan. There, he was a member of the Taylor Senior Center and enjoyed attending weekly Bible Study Sessions and Christian Fellowship. He loved WII bowling, reading, researching, investing, giving advice, and sharing his wealth of knowledge. His motto was “you’re never too old to learn.”
John is preceded in death by his parents, the late Warner P. Smith and Iris Dene (Anderson) Smith, as well as his siblings, Norma Freeman (Esco), Wanda McReynolds (Herbert), Warner Smith (Dorothy), Jean Aston (Eugene), and Jack Smith (Shirley).
He is survived by his sister-in-law, Corinne M. Ellis, his three children, Kevin Smith (Noreen Hodgins) of Chicago, IL, Kathleen (Michael) Ziglar of Dothan, AL, and Karen (Bruce) Abney of Waterford, WI. He leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Craig Lautenschlager, Amy (Drew) Blazo, Eric (Sarah) Abney, Megan (Steven) Worsley, Melanie (Allyson) Smith, Madison Smith, Carmen Ziglar Hamm (Jason Currie), Kayla (Lucas) Davis, and seven great-grandchildren.
The family requests memorial contributions be directed to the Taylor Senior Center, 1457 S. State Hwy 605, Taylor, AL 36301 or the Father Fred Foundation at fatherfred.org.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
C B “Buddy” Jackson, a cherished husband, father, grandfather “Papa”, brother, and friend, passed away on January 5, 2025, at the age of 92 in Midland City, Alabama. Born in Early County, Georgia, to J B Jackson and Susie Smith on March 24, 1932. Buddy’s life was characterized by his unwavering strength, sharp wit, and profound love for his family.
Buddy grew up in the warm embrace of Georgia’s countryside before making Midland City his home for the last four decades. He served as a dedicated security guard, a role that reflected his protective and responsible nature. Upon his retirement he played an active role raising his grand and great grandchildren. His playful assertion that C B stood for “Crime Buster” was a testament to both his sense of humor and his commitment to safety.
Those who knew Buddy would fondly remember him as a man who was always right—or at least that’s what he’d jovially claim. His hard-headedness was matched only by his great sense of humor, making every conversation with him both a challenge and a delight. Despite his tough exterior, Buddy was a devoted family man. He took immense pride in caring for his loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of love and steadfastness.
Buddy is survived by his son, Jerry (Kathy) Shirah, his daughters, Lenora Graham, Dawn (Chris) Betsill, and Autumn (James) Stephens; his several grandchildren; several great and great great grandchildren; his sisters, Helen Beckon, Janice Robinson, Joyce Ingram and Peggy Dehne; and several nieces and nephews who will miss his guidance and laughter. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Annise Jackson, his daughter Shirley Coker, his three brothers, his sister, and mother and father.
His interests painted the picture of a life well-lived and full of joy. An avid Alabama Football fan, Buddy’s enthusiasm for his team was infectious, and game days were always a special event in his household. He was also a keen outdoorsman, finding peace in the simple pleasures of squirrel and dove hunting. True to his adventurous spirit, Buddy loved to travel with his family, often setting out with no destination in mind, simply enjoying the journey and the company of his loved ones.
Buddy’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. As a faithful Christian, he found strength and solace in his beliefs. He lived by the words of Jesus, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies.” This profound faith was a source of comfort to him and to those who knew him.
Friends and family will gather to honor and celebrate Buddy’s life at 11 am on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel. Officiating the service will be Reverend Tim, who will share words of comfort and hope. Following the service, Buddy will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park. Loved ones are invited to join the family in remembrance of Buddy from 10-11 am at the funeral home prior to the service.
Buddy Jackson was the epitome of a life well-lived. He was handy, always able to fix what was broken; friendly, always there with a smile and a helping hand; and funny, never missing a chance to share a laugh. His presence was a gift to all who knew him, and his memory will be treasured in the hearts of his family and friends forever.
Mrs. Barbara Ruth Stokes Davis, a resident of the Salem Community, died Saturday afternoon, January 4, 2025, in a Dothan hospital. She was 91 years old.
Funeral services for Mrs. Davis will be 11:00 A. M. Wednesday, January 8, 2025, from Salem Baptist Church with Reverend Harold Peters and Reverend Tim Willis officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery, Holman Funeral Home of Ozark directing. The family will receive friends at the funeral home in Ozark Tuesday evening from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P. M.
Mrs. Davis was born December 7, 1933 in Birmingham, Alabama to the late Samuel G. Stokes and Bardee Walker Stokes. In 1952 she married her late husband, Joe Merrill Davis and they made their home in Barbour County. She worked with the Bank of Ozark and then with the bank in Clio until her retirement. Mrs. Davis was a talented artist and seamstress who loved homemaking and working in her yard.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Joe Merrill Davis; three sisters and one brother. Survivors include three daughters, Gloria Davis Garrett Helms of Banks, Barbara Davis Lewis of Dothan and Carol Davis Nicholson (Michael) of Brundidge; one sister, Peggy Stokes Bullard of Foley, Alabama; grandchildren, Stacie Black (Jason), Micah Garrett (Amy), Justin Garrett (Kimberly), Whitney Deese (Brian), Zachory McDaniel (Cristy), Davis McDaniel (April) and Brady McDaniel. Eighteen great grandchildren also survive.
Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made in her memory to Salem Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, C/O Mr. Don Johnson, P. O. Box 196, Skipperville, Alabama 36374; or to the charity of your choice.
Lewis Nicholas Martocci, of Enterprise, AL, passed away Saturday, January 4, 2025 at Noland Hospital. He was 86.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Lewis was a dedicated member of the American Legion, where he formed lasting friendships that brought joy and camaraderie into his life. A devoted supporter of the Oakland Raiders, Lewis found excitement in the thrill of the game. The Catholic Church played a significant role in his life. Lewis took great pleasure in attending Mass and participating in church activities. He was also known for his love of family and friends. Many fond memories were created at Chubby’s Garage, a place where laughter and camaraderie flourished.
Lewis Nicholas Martocci will be remembered as a passionate friend, a loyal fan, a devoted churchgoer, and a loving family member. His presence will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Lewis was preceded in death by his wife of 15 years Karen Martocci, two sons Lewis Martocci, III and David Martocci, and brother Richard Martocci.
Survivors include his daughter, Terry Thatcher (Mark), Enterprise, AL; son, Kenneth Bender (Lori), Tatamy, PA; seven grandchildren, Candy Nichols, Amanda McGowan (Michael), Andrew Bender (Trish), Beth Pettis, Brandy Andrews, Mark Thatcher, Jr. (Jen), and Michael Thatcher; thirteen grandchildren, Hayley, Landon, Kaileigh, Zoey, Emily, Jeremy Jr., Kaylynn, Logan, Griffin, Brody, Renlee, Seth, and Faith.
David Allen Berry, of Daleville, AL, passed away Thursday, January 2, 2025 at his home. He was 62.
No services are scheduled at this time.
David was a Journeyman Brick and Block Mason, following his father into the trade. He was also accomplished in many other skills and building trades. David was an avid stock car racing and NASCAR fan. While living in the Carolinas he was a pit crew member on an All-Pro and Busch Grand National racing team, serving primarily as Jackman. He also drove in some Enduro races and acquired the nickname “Enduro Dave”.
David will be remembered for loving to have a good time, sometimes to his detriment. His anthem was “Long Haired Country Boy” by The Charlie Daniels Band. David had many friends and he never met a stranger. He loved his family and his friends. He will surely be missed. May God bless him.
David was preceded in death by his mother Lonie Pearl Berry McInnis, father Verlan Berry, and a brother John Paul Berry.
He is survived by his two brothers, Edward Berry, Level Plains, AL; Verlan Jerome Berry, Level Plains, AL; and nephew, John Edward Berry, Level Plains, AL.
The family would like to thank the Daleville Fire Department, Daleville Rescue Squad, and Daleville Police Department for all their assistance and patience this past year.
EWELL COMMUNITY…Mr. James Ray Goss, a resident of the Ewell Community, near Ozark, died early Sunday afternoon, January 5, 2025, in a Dothan hospital. He was 60.
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.
Mr. Goss, son of the late W.J. Goss and Willie Ray Jackson Goss, was a native of Ozark and Daleville. He attended Daleville High School and joined the United States Army following high school. While in the Army, he served in Desert Storm, where he operated a tank. Mr. Goss also worked as a tower rigger and worked as a chef. He enjoyed riding motorcycles with his family and friends and also enjoyed canoeing on the river. Mr. Goss loved anime and cartoons. He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Emanuel Allen Rogers and a brother, Charles Rogers.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Shirley VanNoy Goss, Ewell Community; sister, Velisha Hodge (Mark), Enterprise; brother, William Curtis Goss, Wicksburg; he raised many kids and was known as Uncle James to a lot of other kids; nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and other relatives.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
