Charles Gregory Graham, known affectionately to friends and family as Greg, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2024, at the age of 68 in Dothan, Alabama. Born in Shorterville, Alabama, on December 15, 1956, Greg’s life was marked by his kind, gentle, and loving nature. Greg was a beacon of warmth and generosity.
Greg graduated from Abbeville High School in 1975, embodying the spirit of determination and community from a young age. He furthered his education at Alabama State University, where he not only excelled academically but also forged lifelong friendships. Greg’s career was a testament to his hard work and dedication; he was a respected employee at Nucor Tubular Products, where his colleagues valued his commitment and camaraderie.
Greg’s life was filled with the love of his family. He is survived by the love of his life, Vernel Edwards, with whom he shared countless cherished moments. His legacy continues through his beloved daughter, Shantel (Kamau) White, and his adored grandchildren, Khalil and Kaymen White. Greg’s memory will also be honored by his siblings, Dale (Rosalyn) Graham, Judy Nelson, Margia (Percell) Gregory, and Rodney (Lashara) Graham, as well as several nieces and nephews who looked up to him. He was preceded in death by his mother, Minerva Graham, his sister, JoAnn Whiters, and his brother-in-law, Virgil Nelson.
Throughout his life, Greg cultivated a multitude of interests that reflected his zest for life and his love for simple pleasures. An avid fisherman, he could often be found at his favorite fishing spots, enjoying the tranquility of nature. Greg was also a culinary enthusiast, known for his exceptional gumbo—a dish that brought family and friends together around the table. He lived in various places, including Tallahassee, Florida, and Columbia, South Carolina, before ultimately returning to Tallahassee, where he embraced his role as a grandfather.
Those who knew Greg will remember him for his unwavering kindness and gentle soul. He was a man who cherished his family above all else, embodying the essence of a life well-lived. As the famous poet Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Greg made everyone around him feel loved and valued, and his legacy of love will continue to resonate in the hearts of those he touched.
A celebration of Greg’s life will be held at 11 am on Monday, January 6, 2025 at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Charles Davis officiating. Greg will be laid to rest at Sunset Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Monday at the funeral home from 10-11 am.
Greg’s life was a journey of love, laughter, and lasting impressions. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his spirit will live on through the stories shared, the memories cherished, and the lives he enriched. The world was undoubtedly a better place for having had Greg in it, and his light will continue to shine brightly in the legacy of kindness he leaves behind.
As we bid farewell to Charles Gregory Graham, let us celebrate the life of a man who exemplified the virtues of love, kindness, and gentleness. In his memory, let us hold close the moments that remind us of his enduring presence and the indelible mark he left on this world. Greg’s journey on earth has concluded, but his story will continue to inspire those who carry his memory in their hearts.
Mr. William Brady “Bill” Davenport Sr. passed away peacefully Monday, December 30, 2024, at his home in Ozark, Alabama, surrounded by family, following a brief but courageous fight against cancer. He was 62 years old.
A memorial service for Mr. Davenport will be held at a later date. Holman Funeral Home of Ozark has been entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences may be expressed at www.HolmanFuneralHome.com.
Bill, as everyone called him, was born on November 15, 1962, in Anniston, Alabama to Kenneth and Rosa Davenport, who both passed at an early age, in 1971 and 1978. The family moved to Ozark in 1963 where he graduated from Carroll High School in 1981. From a young age, he was a star on the baseball field, his skill and determination earning him a reputation as one of the best players in the league. Every game he played was proof of his talent, leaving a legacy of home runs and unforgettable plays. He was a devoted Auburn Tigers fan but was often seen cheering for the teams of the states his children lived. However, it wasn’t just his prowess in sports that made him remarkable. He was the kind of person who always had your back, no matter the circumstances, especially if you were one of his children. His love for them, no matter the distance, was unwavering and deep. That love will always be remembered. Bill spent his life working for himself, as a carpenter, but that title doesn’t give him enough credit. His creative spirit shone brightly through his work with his hands. A true artisan, he could transform simple materials with his own hands into beautiful, intricate projects that left everyone in awe. Whether it was crafting a piece of furniture or building something from scratch, his craftsmanship was unparalleled, and his creations were evidence to his skill and passion. He was a person of great warmth, humor, and kindness; leaving an unforgettable mark on those who knew him well. Bill met any challenge with resilience and humor. His love for his family, friends, and passions never wavered. In honoring his memory, we celebrate not just the difficulties he faced, but the joy, laughter, and love he brought to those around him.
He is preceded in death by his beloved son, Wesley Grant Davenport, and his oldest brothers Jimmy D. Davenport Sr., Kenneth K. Davenport, and Howard D. Davenport.
His survivors include his daughter, Anna Lillian Davenport of Elizabethtown, KY, who assisted in the loving care of her father in his final months; his son, William Brady (Brad) Davenport Jr., of Dupo, IL; his sister, Nancy Y. Haddan (Roger) of Ozark, AL; his brothers, Tommy M. Davenport of Ozark, AL, and Donald E. Davenport (Mark Van Pelt) of Orlando, FL. Many special nieces, nephews, and in-laws also survive. The family would like to express their appreciation to DaySpring Hospice for the care provided by their entire team.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Paul Trant at the age of 71.
He was preceded in death by his grandmother Minnie Keller; parents, J.B. and Merle Jean Trant; three paternal uncles, Allen, Jack, and Arthur Trant; three paternal aunts, Nora Miller, Ula Mae Carrol, and Bannie Trubeau; and his beloved wife, Sonja McDaniels Trant.
He is survived by his daughter, Jamie McDaniels; son-in-law, Ryan Toups; sister-in-law, Lavoice McDonald; and brother-in-law, Don McDaniels (Karen). He also leaves behind his maternal aunt Paula (Ray) Howell, as well as many cousins, in-laws, and extended family members.
Mike dedicated many years of his life to working at Fleming Foods and Magnolia Market in Geneva. In his free time, he enjoyed listening to music and following sports. He was a proud member of the Geneva High School class of 1972. He had a special greeting for everyone: “Everything almost perfect?” He played the trombone and loved attending Troy games to see “The Sound of the South” marching band and watch the football team. Above all else, Mike enjoyed being with his buddies. Though he was an only child, he had many, many brothers whom he loved very much.
Mike loved his daughter dearly and fondly called her his “little big girl.” People often remarked on how much she (actually his stepdaughter) looked like him, and he never corrected them but proudly responded, “Thank you.” He cared for his wife until she passed in May of 2022 and spoke of her as if she were with him in his final days.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 4, 2025, in the chapel of Warren Holloway Ward Funeral Home with Rev. Michael Herrera officiating. Burial will follow in Liberty Chapel Baptist Church 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.
Pallbearers for his service will be Charlie Fleming, Dennis Huggins, Don Crutchfield, Bill Ammons, Royce Reagan, Steve Hatcher, Benny Speigner, and Bobby Nolan. The Geneva High School class of 1972 are honorary pallbearers.
His daughter would like to extend a special thanks to the people who took extra special care of him in his final years: River Valley Rehab, Bonifay Nursing Home, Barbara Gonzales, Irma Cross, Tony Helms, Bill Ammons (and the rest of the Maple Avenue Baptist Church community), Benny Speigner, Charlie Fleming, and many others.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org) in his memory.
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
DOTHAN. . .Silas Dean Moat, a resident of Dothan, died early Tuesday morning, December 31, 2024, at his home. He was 46.
There are no memorial or funeral services planned at this time. Holman-Headland Mortuary & Cremations is in charge of arrangements.
Silas Dean Moat was a lifelong resident of Dothan. He was disabled all his lifetime. Silas Dean was affiliated with the Madrid Assembly of God.
Surviving relatives include his mother, Cathy Kirkland and step-father, Roy Patterson, Dothan; his father, Ray Kirkland, Dothan; a sister, Marie Kirkland, Kinsey; a brother, Ray “Little Ray” Kirkland, Dothan; three nieces and two nephews.
HOLMAN-HEADLAND MORTUARY & CREMATIONS IS IN CHARGE OF ARRANGEMENTS. Phone 334-693-3371. You may sign a guest register at www.holmanmortuaries.com. This establishment does not own a crematory.
Mrs. Quinoma Pridgen Grant, age 83 of Geneva, Alabama died December 29, 2024 after a brief illness.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at First Baptist Church of Geneva with Dr. Ed Scott officiating and Warren Holloway Ward Funeral Home of Geneva directing. The family will receive friends at the church on Thursday beginning at 9:30 a.m.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or the First Baptist Church of Geneva, Alabama.
Mrs. Grant was born July 25, 1941, in Geneva County to the late Lelon and Myrtle Pridgen in the Hacoda Community. She was a graduate of Samson High School, Troy University and the University of Alabama. Mrs. Grant retired with over 38 years of teaching with a majority of those years having served as guidance counselor at Geneva High School. Her love for the students and her desire to direct, nurture and encourage them was an accomplishment for which she took great pride.
Mrs. Grant was a long-time member of First Baptist Church, the Open Door Sunday School Class, the WMU Circle, the Retired Teachers Association, Delta Kappa Gamma and the Athenaeum Club of which in 2016 she was honored as a 50 year member. She also loved her monthly lunch meetings with the Samson High School class of 1959.
Survivors of Mrs. Grant include her husband of over 60 years, Joe Grant, one daughter Jolie Grant Starling and son-in-law Jay, of Montgomery, Alabama; one granddaughter, Gigi Starling Azar and her husband Michael of Birmingham, Alabama; one brother Roger Pridgen of Hacoda, one nephew Shane Pridgen and one niece Randa Culverhouse.
Honorary pall bearers will be Rex Bynum, Dan Campbell, Wynnton Melton, Stephen Smith, Kerry McLaney, Brad Bynum, and Scott Jordan.
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
Mayor Clay King, 60, passed away on December 28th, 2024. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Clay was born on July 8th, 1964, in Samson, Alabama. He was a lifelong employee of Samson Banking Company and servant to his community. He served on Samson City Council for 4 years (1992-1996) and as mayor for 28 years (1996-present). He was known for his love and dedication to his hometown and the people he represented.
The simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to Clay. He loved spending time with his wife, beekeeping, cooking and watching wildlife at the farm. He was a devoted father who was loved dearly by his children.
Clay is proceeded in death by his mother and father, Gray and Frank King. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Brannon King, his children, Katherine Ashcroft (Clayton), Randal White (Bridgett), Rob White (Jessica) and his grandchildren, Miles Ashcroft, Evie White, Cooper White, Maverick White, Roman White, and Abigail White, 4 siblings, Libby Griswold, Buddy King (Terri), David King (Linda), and Jamie King; several nieces, and nephews. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, January 3, 2025, at the First Baptist Church of Samson with Rev. Danny Branch officiating. The family will receive friends at the church on Friday beginning at 11:00 a.m. There will not be a graveside service following the funeral.
In addition to flowers, donations to the City of Samson for a new community playground, a project currently working on, will be accepted. Donations for the playground can be made at Samson City Hall, 16 E. Main Street, Samson, Alabama 36477.
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
