Obituary: Jerome Conrad Boykin, Jr.
Charles Richard Hartzog
Charles Richard Hartzog, age 82, passed away Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at Jackson Hospital in Montgomery.
Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm on Friday, January 3, 2025, in the Glover Funeral Home Chapel in Clayton with Bro. David Stewart officiating. Burial will follow at Creel Church Cemetery with Glover Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm in the chapel prior to services.
Flowers will be accepted.
Richard was born on July 13, 1942, in Barbour County to James Huey Hartzog and Callie C Brown Hartzog. He began working as a Conservation Officer for the State of Alabama in 1970. Prior to becoming a Conservation Officer, he worked as a Policeman for the city of Abbeville and Eufaula and as a Deputy for the Barbour and Henry County Sheriff’s Offices. Richard enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was a member of the local Masonic Lodge. He attended Midway Baptist Church.
Richard is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Donald Hartzog and William Kency Hartzog; and one sister, Catherine Howerton.
Survivors include his loving wife, Hilda Fay Price Hartzog of fifty-nine years; son, Kyle Hartzog of Eufaula; two brothers, James H. Hartzog and Larry Hartzog, both of Clayton; two sister, Lenora Johnson (Leon) of Clayton and Callie Imogene Mathiew of South Bridge, MA; several nieces and nephews.
Serving as pallbearers will be Wayne Faulk, Buster Volf, Austin Martin, Andrew Hartzog, Justin Eubanks, and Collins McWhorter.
Glover Funeral Home of Clayton was entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 775-3403. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com
Richard Burke, III
Richard Burke, III, a man whose laughter and creativity enriched the lives of all who knew him, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2024, in Dothan, Alabama, following an extended illness. Born on February 15, 1951, in Tennessee, Richard’s zest for life and dedication to his loved ones left an indelible mark on his community and family.
Richard’s early years in Tennessee laid the foundation for a life marked by enthusiasm and talent. His prowess on the football field led him to the University of Alabama, where he played from 1969 to 1971 under the legendary Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant. Richard’s academic journey continued as he earned his bachelor’s degree from Troy University and later a Master’s degree from Auburn University. His pursuit of education was a testament to his belief in the power of knowledge, a value he instilled in his children and grandchildren
Professionally, Richard served as a Director at Wiregrass Rehabilitation, where his leadership and compassion touched many lives. He was not only respected for his professional achievements but also for his involvement in various associations, including SEACT, and his contributions to local music groups like Clique, Legend, and Bopcats. Richard’s artistic flair shone through his musical talents, and he was known throughout the Wiregrass as a gifted musician, playing in several bands from an early age.
The heart of Richard’s world was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Debbie; his son, Drew (Leslie) Burke; his daughter, Courtney (George) Bable; his grandchildren, Christopher (Emily) Breedlove, Burke Breedlove, Amelie and Memphis Burke; his great-grandchildren, Luke and Mena Breedlove; his sister, Marian (Jim) Tucker; and several nieces and nephews. Each family member was a precious thread in the rich tapestry of his life.
An extreme family man, Richard’s presence was a constant at every milestone and everyday moment. He was the life of the party in his youth and remained a steadfast supporter of his children and grandchildren, attending every event and celebration. His love for his family was unwavering, and he was affectionately known as “Big Daddy” for his protective nature. Richard had a unique way of caring for those he loved, always ready to defend and provide for them.
With an artistic soul, Richard’s creativity knew no bounds. From woodworking to making beautiful flower arrangements to sharing his musical gifts, he brought beauty and joy to both the happiest and saddest of times. His voice graced many weddings and funerals, offering comfort and celebration through song.
Richard’s spiritual depth was evident to all who knew him, and his knowledge of Scripture was profound. In his final days, he faced his illness with courage and grace, deciding that when all had been done medically, he was ready to transition to hospice care. His readiness to embrace the next journey reflected his deep faith and understanding of life’s seasons.
His interests and talents were diverse, but perhaps the most memorable was his role as Santa, a testament to his playful spirit and generosity. Richard’s legacy of joy and service will continue to resonate through the countless lives he touched.
In the words of William Shakespeare, “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” Richard played his roles with passion, humor, intelligence, and creativity, leaving a legacy that will be cherished and celebrated by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
A celebration of Richard’s life will be held at 3 pm on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel. Richard will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park. Flowers are being accepted or memorial contributions may be made in his honor to the American Cancer Society, https://donate.cancer.org
Richard Burke, III, was a beacon of light in the lives of his family and community, and while he will be deeply missed, the memories and love he shared will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those he leaves behind.
Susan Lynn Burch
Susan Lynn Burch, 40, a resident of Dothan, passed away unexpectedly, on Monday, December 30, 2024, at her residence.
Celebration of Life services will be held at 12:30 p.m., on Monday, January 6, 2025, at Glover Funeral Home with Dr. David R. Saliba officiating. The family will receive friends from 11:15 until 12:15 p.m., prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to, Savoy Jones Benefit Foundation, P.O. Box 341, Dothan, AL 36302 or online at https://www.savoybenefit.com/.
Susan was born December 8, 1984, in Wichita Falls, Texas to Jack Burch & Shea Mixon. Around the age of 18 months, her family moved to England, before moving back to Dothan at the age of three. She was a 2003 graduate of Northview High School. Following school, Susan has worked for Oncology Supply, Camping World, and most recently, Bondy’s Ford as a Parts Associate for the last 7 years.
She is preceded by her maternal grandparents, Pete Mixon & Betty Mixon.
She is survived by her mother, Shea Mixon; her father, Jack Burch; her paternal grandparents, Jon & Betty Paulding; her stepfather, Kennon Patterson; her special pet, Tikka; and a large extended family.
Glover Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 699-3888. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com.
Brenda Lee Parker Creech
Brenda Lee Parker Creech of Geneva, AL passed away on Monday, December 30, 2024. She was 67 years old.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 4, 2025, in the chapel of Warren Holloway Ward Funeral Home with Rev. Red Coleman officiating. Burial will follow at Beda Baptist Church in Wing, AL with Warren Holloway Ward Funeral Home of Geneva directing. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday beginning at 1:00 p.m.
Brenda was born in Evergreen, AL on July 20, 1957, to the late Leroy and Doris Wells Parker. Brenda was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. In her spare time, she enjoyed spending time with her family, shopping, and going to the beach.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, Ronnie Lavon Creech; two siblings, Terry Parker and Shirley Taylor.
She is survived by one son, Shane Creech (Stephanie) of Geneva, AL; one daughter, Kerry Revell (Chris) of Montgomery, AL; two grandchildren, Sheyanne and Sawyer Creech of Geneva, AL; one brother, Buddy Parker of Mississippi; and many special nieces and nephews.
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.net
Raley “Ray” Curtis Adkins
Raley Curtis “Ray” Adkins, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend passed away peacefully on December 30, 2024, in Grimes, Alabama at the age of 79. He was surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 2, 1945, in Henry County, Alabama to the late Curtis L. Adkins and Virgie Raley Adkins. Ray was a man whose life was defined by his dedication to his family, his work, and his community.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 3, 2025 at 2:00 pm in the chapel of Sunset Memorial Park with Pastor Charles Longshore and Brother Robert Hamilton officiating. The family will receive friends in the chapel from 1:00-2:00 on Friday. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Mt. Zion Assembly of God Church, 1078 Co Rd 112, Midland City, Alabama 36350.
Ray grew up in Dale County and attended Headland High School, where he met his wife of 55 years, Jacquelyn “Jackie” Brown. Ray was a devoted husband and a loving father to their daughters, Tara Adkins and Alicia Adkins Kidd (Anthony “Tony”). His pride and joy were evident in his role as a grandfather to Henry Curtis Kidd.
He was the beloved brother of Virginia Adkins Oliver and Jane Adkins Jenkins (Mickey). Ray was predeceased by his sister, Ellen Jeanette Adkins and a brother-in-law, J.B. Oliver. His life was enriched by his numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews who will miss his generous spirit and warm presence.
Ray was known for his service to his community and his church. He served on the Grimes town council, was a former member of the Napier Field Volunteer Fire Department, and a faithful member of Mt. Zion Assembly of God Church. Ray retired after a 35-year career at Sears, where he was respected by his colleagues for his work ethic and integrity. Ray’s dedication to his work was matched only by his commitment to his community and family.
Ray was a gifted woodworker and loved working on projects for his daughters. He was always eager to lend his handy skills to help them turn their houses into homes. In his younger years, he found joy in restoring antique cars. Above all, Ray will be remembered for his loving nature, his generosity, and his ability to fix anything he put his hands to. He had a heart that overflowed with kindness, and he never hesitated to share his talents and time with those in need. Ray’s life was a testament to the power of love and the importance of family. He will be deeply missed by his wife, daughters, grandson, siblings, and the many lives he touched. For those who knew Ray, his memory will live on in the stories shared, the projects completed, and the community he helped.
As we say goodbye to Ray, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of purpose and passion. His spirit will forever be a guiding light to his family and the countless friends who were blessed to know him.