rickey@rickeystokesnews.com

Text Rickey: 334-790-1729

Geraldine Duncan

Geraldine Duncan

 

Geraldine Cowart Duncan, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2024, in Dothan, Alabama. Born on July 22, 1955, in Cairo, Georgia, Geraldine was a beacon of love and kindness throughout her 69 years.

The daughter of the late Estella and Judge Cowart Sr., Geraldine grew up surrounded by a large and loving family. She was a sister to eight siblings: Evelyn Windom, Soloman Cowart, William Cowart, Judge Cowart, Jr., Earlene Gordon, Teresa Cotton, Terry Cowart, and Darlene Parker. Geraldine’s family was her pride and joy, and she was a central figure in the lives of her children, Sharon Cowart and Bruce Williams, as well as her adored grandchildren, Nick Mathews and Tony Mathews; and son-in-law, Eddie Bryant.

Geraldine’s passion for floral design was more than just a profession; it was a calling that she pursued for over 40 years. Her innate talent for creating beautiful arrangements brought comfort and joy to countless individuals. Geraldine’s gift extended beyond the physical beauty of her creations; she had a unique ability to uplift spirits and make people feel better with her warm presence and the care she put into her work.

Her work as a floral designer was a reflection of her nature. Geraldine was a hard worker, not only in her profession but in all aspects of life. Her dedication to her family was unwavering, and she provided for them with the same love and care that she gave to her floral arrangements. She was a loving person, always ready to offer support and guidance to those around her. Geraldine was known for her honesty, telling it like she saw it, but always in a kind and loving way that left people feeling heard and respected.

Geraldine’s interests extended beyond her work. She was deeply involved in the lives of her family members, and she cherished the time spent with them. Her love for her family was evident in the way she spoke of them and the countless hours she dedicated to being with them. Her grandchildren were a source of immense joy, and she took great pride in their accomplishments and growth.

The words that best describe Geraldine are loving and kind. These traits were the foundation of her character and were felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Geraldine’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and beauty, both in the art she created and the life she led.

Geraldine leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She was a mentor and friend to many, and her guidance and wisdom will be deeply missed. Her memory will continue to live on through the beautiful moments she created, the lessons she imparted, and the love she shared.

As we say farewell to Geraldine Cowart Duncan, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of passion, creativity, and an unending capacity for love. Her spirit will forever be a part of the lives she touched, and her memory will be cherished by all who knew her. Geraldine’s passing is a profound loss, but her presence will continue to be felt in the beauty of a well-crafted bouquet, the laughter of her grandchildren, and the warmth of the memories she leaves behind.

A celebration of Geraldine’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at Sunset Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service on Saturday at the funeral home.

Grace Bowden Brunson

Grace Bowden Brunson

Grace Bowden Brunson, age 82, of Enterprise, AL went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, December 31, 2024 in Medical Center Enterprise.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00PM, Saturday, January 4, 2025 at New Home Baptist Church with Rev. Cliff Quincey officiating. Burial will follow in Meadowlawn Cemetery with Searcy Funeral Home and Crematory directing. The family will receive friends at the church from 12:00 Noon until service time. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or to New Home Baptist Church, 2734 County Road 617, Enterprise, AL 36330.

Grace was born on June 30, 1942 in Enterprise, AL to the late Feagin and Sallie Mae Bowden. Grace was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mama, grandmother and friend. She also served countless customers during her time working at Bryars Warren Drug Company and Center Drugs.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Feagin and Sallie Mae Bowden; her husband Cliff B. Brunson; one son-in-law, Billy J. Montgomery; two granddaughters, Emma Claire and Madilyn Bell Thrash; and her siblings, Ollie Jo Yarbrough (James), Richard Bowden (Katherine), Mary Lunsford and Maylon Bowden (Janice).

Survivors include her two daughters, Jennifer B. Montgomery and Amy B. Thrash; a son, Cliff Byron Brunson Jr. (Ginger); her grandchildren, Trey Montgomery (Amanda) and their two sons, John Thomas and Will Montgomery, Paige Gannon (Dennis) and their daughter, Ayla and son, Jack, Tyler Montgomery (Mariah), Elizabeth Jones (Tyler) and their daughter, Olivia Jones, Gracie, Zander and Brooks Thrash, John Bradshaw (Faith) and their daughters, Gracie, Breleigh, Blakely, AJ and their son, Noah, Dalton Bradshaw (MJ) and Dylan Bradshaw (Elisabeth), and their daughter, Caroline Bradshaw, and one brother-in-law, Collis Lunsford of Bartow, FL; and numerous nieces and nephews.

You may sign the register book or send condolences to the family at our website: www.searcyfuneralhome.com .

Winona Alma Hutto

Winona Alma Hutto

Winona Alma Hutto a resident of Dothan passed away peacefully at her residence on January 1, 2025, at the age of 91, surrounded by her daughters.  Born on May 15, 1933, Winona’s life was a tapestry of love, family, and spirited journeys that touched the hearts of all who knew her.

Funeral services will be held at 11 AM Saturday, January 4, 2025 in the Ward Wilson Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor David Willis officiating . The family will receive friends from 10-11AM in the chapel. Burial will follow in the Memory Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Highland Park United Methodist Church at 1619 S Park Ave, Dothan, AL 36301 or the American Cancer Association https://donate.cancer.org/

Winona is predeceased by her late husband, Robert Hutto, her sister, Lois Stewart, and her brother Donald Woods, Winona’s memory is honored and her spirit carried on by her loving daughters, Jeanne, Julie, and Janis Hutto. She also leaves behind her sister-in-law, Martha Woods, and a close-knit family of nieces and nephews, among whom Dr. Robyn Stewart White and Dr. Daniel Stewart hold a special place in her heart.

Winona’s life was one of active engagement and joyous participation. Her love for her church, Highland Park Methodist, was profound, and she was a constant presence in its halls, her laughter and wisdom a comfort to all. She was known for her weekly gatherings with the ladies of the church, where they shared in the tradition of dominos, a testament to her love for fellowship and community.

Traveling was another of Winona’s passions, and she approached it with the same adventurous spirit that she lived her life. Her journeys were not just about the places she visited but the people she met and the experiences she shared.
As we bid farewell to Winona Alma Hutto, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a journey well-traveled. Her legacy is one of unwavering love and a faith that shone brightly as a guide to all. Winona’s story does not end with her passing but continues in the lives of those she touched, in the laughter of her daughters, the wisdom of her nieces and nephews, and the hallowed halls of Highland Park Methodist, where her spirit will forever be a cornerstone of the community. Her life was a gift to us all, and her memory will be cherished forever.

2414 Hartford Highway

Dothan, Alabama 36305

334-792-4194

www.wardwilson.com

Daniel Clyde Wilson

Daniel Clyde Wilson

Daniel Clyde Wilson, 81, a resident of Dothan, passed away, on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at his residence.

Dan was born on June 23, 1943, in Dothan to the late Ross Wilson & Gladys (Floyd) Wallace. He spent his childhood in Houston County, and attended Columbia High School. Following graduation he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served for 8 years, in places such as Austin, TX, St. Petersburg, FL, Washington D.C., and Seoul Korea. After his honorable discharge, he began a career with Air Gas as a sales person, and later working his way to the title of Safety Coordinator.

He is preceded by his parents; his grandparents who raised him, Iverson & Bertha Floyd.

He is survived by his wife, Robbie Wilson of Dothan; and his daughter, Robin Wilson of Birmingham; his caring sister, Evelyn Davis; and several nieces & nephews.

A private burial will take place at Garden’s of Memory cemetery. The family will have a memorial service at a later date.

Glover Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 699-3888. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com

Stanley Bruce Sessions

Stanley Bruce Sessions

 

Stanley Bruce Sessions, affectionately known as Stan, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2024, in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 61. Born in Greenville, Alabama, on October 17, 1963, Stanley was a beacon of light in the lives of all who knew him, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering faith.

Stan grew up in the warm embrace of Greenville, where he spent his early years learning the value of hard work alongside his father in the logging industry. His keen mind and natural aptitude for numbers led him to pursue higher education in finance. Stan’s diligence and commitment to his studies culminated in his graduation from Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) with a degree in Banking, a field in which he would excel for many years.

Professionally, Stan was a respected Commercial Lender with Five Star Credit Union, where his genuine care for his customers garnered him not only their business but their lifelong friendship. His reputation for honesty and integrity followed him in every endeavor, including his successful stint in the realty business. Stan’s colleagues and clients alike admired him for his generous spirit and his ability to make even the most complex financial matters seem straightforward and manageable.

Stan’s heart was as full as his schedule, and he was always ready to lend a hand or share a joke, brightening the day of those around him. He was a pillar of his community, calling Dothan home for three decades. His infectious laughter, good-natured ribbing, and the joy he found in the simple pleasures of life made him a cherished companion to many, especially his lifelong special friends and his beloved buddies.

A man of great faith, Stan was raised in the Church of Christ and lived by the principles he held dear. His moral compass, guided by his belief in God, steered him through life with grace and dignity. His good humor, combined with his generosity and handy skills, made him a treasured friend and neighbor. Stan’s ability to connect with children, his big heart, and his unwavering commitment to good values earned him the love and respect of all ages.

Family was the cornerstone of Stan’s world. He was preceded in death by his father, James Carl Sessions, Sr.  Stan is survived by his daughter, Heather Sessions; his mother, Evelyn Hilliard Sessions Lewis; his brother, James Carl Sessions, Jr.; his sister, Rachel Sessions (Todd) Janke; his aunts, Margaret (Dennis) Phillips and Mildred (Robert) McCann; a niece, Hannah Janke; numerous cousins and lifelong special friends who became family, Jeff Rogers, Nan Herring Landwehr, Bonnie Whittle Staley, and Wanda Milstead Couch. His buddies who were more like brothers to him were, Les Pinckard, Fox Flemming, Bobby Landwehr, Richard Talley, Joel Harris, Eddie Rhodes, David Cornelius, and Lister Reeves.  The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Melinda Sessions for her care and compassion during Stan’s final days. 

In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” Stanley embodied this philosophy daily, touching the lives of those around him with his faith-filled spirit, his generous nature, and his unwavering commitment to doing good.

As we bid farewell to Stan, we celebrate the remarkable man he was and the indelible imprint he has left on our hearts. His legacy of kindness, laughter, and love will continue to inspire and guide us. Though he may be gone from our sight, Stanley Bruce Sessions will forever remain a beloved son, father, brother, relative, and friend. His memory will be cherished, and his life celebrated, as we hold him close in our thoughts and prayers.

Stan’s wish was to have a celebration of life. The details and date of this event is to be determined.

Betty Davis Jones of Kinsey

KINSEY, ALABAMA……..Betty Davis Jones,  a resident of Kinsey, passed away early Wednesday morning, January 01, 2025. She was 82.

Memorial services will be held 11:00 A.M. Saturday, January 04, 2024, at Wright Funeral Home and Crematory Chapel with Reverend Brad Hardy officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 A.M. on Saturday prior to the service. Wright Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested contributions be made to Kinsey Baptist Church Bus Fund, 6745 Walden Dr, Kinsey, AL 36303 or online at https://kinseybaptistchurch.org/give (select General Fund and then there is the choice to specify “Bus Fund” in note). .

Mrs. Jones was born in Columbus, Georgia to the late Andrew Jackson Davis and Velma M. Register Davis. She attended Poplar Springs School in Graceville, Florida. She was an avid quilter for many years and loved sharing the talent with others. She especially enjoyed the ministry opportunities with her quilting partners including Sewing for Souls at Kinsey Baptist Church. She loved music and played the piano since she was a little girl. She frequently supported area churches when they needed pianists. She cherished reading and there was always a book by her side. Her favorite hobby was hunting, which she did until just a few years ago. She was an active member of Kinsey Baptist Church for the past eleven years.

Along with her parents, she was also preceded in death by a son, Joseph Haywood “Joey” Jones, Jr.

Leaving to cherish her memories are her husband, Haywood Jones; daughters, Velma Susanne “Susie” Jones-Szoldra (Stanley), Cindy Mechelle Jones Austin (Bobby); son, Michael Jones; sisters, Janie Herring (Nolan) and Barbara Thomason; brother, Ronnie Davis; grandchildren, Rebecca Talley (Shaun), Brian Austin (Hillary), Ashley Elizabeth Spivey (Christina), Olivia Blaire Dufresne (Scott), Emily Brooke Austin; seven great grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, friends and other loving family members.

.