Donald “Bud” Owens, a cherished family man, respected engineer, and a passionate model airplane enthusiast, passed away on March 15, 2026, in Dothan, AL, at the age of 98. Born on January 4, 1928, Bud was a beacon of wisdom and joy for all who knew him.
Bud’s early years were shaped by the loving influence of his parents, Ralph and Arletta Owens. Though they, along with his son Jon Owens, half-brother Lambert Owens, half-sisters Margaret Shott and Lois Lind, and lifelong best friend Bud Allen, preceded him in death, the legacy of his warm, vibrant family lives on.
Bud’s devotion to his wife, Sandi Owens, was the epitome of a lifelong love story. Married for 60 years, their partnership was an exemplar of unwavering commitment and deep affection. Together, they raised a family that includes son Richard Owens, daughters Susie Barton and Susan Wise (Douglas), and were the proud grandparents to Tranace, Justin, Marissa, Megan, Morgan, Callie, Shawn, Crystal, and Alan. His joy was further multiplied by the presence of numerous great-grandchildren, who will carry forward the stories and memories of their beloved great-grandfather.
A graduate of Carnegie Tech in Pennsylvania, Bud’s intellectual prowess and precise attention to detail laid the foundation for a remarkable career as an aeronautical engineer. His journey took him from Pennsylvania to Ocala and finally to Dothan, where he left an indelible mark on the model industry. Bud’s expertise in the design of baggage systems for airports showcased his exceptional skills as a mechanical engineer and earned him the respect and admiration of his peers.
Beyond his professional achievements, Bud was known for his love of model airplane flying, a hobby that brought him immense pleasure and relaxation. His eyes would light up with childlike wonder as he piloted his creations, sharing his passion and knowledge with anyone who showed interest.
Bud’s faithful dachshund, Opie, was his constant companion, embodying the loyalty and unconditional love that Bud himself exemplified throughout his life.
As we mourn the loss of Donald “Bud” Owens, we also celebrate a life well-lived—a life filled with love, laughter, innovation, and the pursuit of happiness. Bud’s memory will soar on the wings of his model airplanes, forever reminding us of the joy and beauty in life’s simplest pleasures. Though he may have taken his final flight from this world, his spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. Rest in peace, dear Bud, your legacy will forever glide gracefully through the hearts of those you touched.
Evelyn Adams Harrell, a resident of Ashford, Alabama died Saturday, March 14, 2026 at her residence. She was 82.
Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Thursday, March 19, 2026 at New Beginning Church with Pastor Logan Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Howard Grove Church cemetery. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 from 6 PM until 8 PM at Ward Wilson Funeral Home.
Mrs. Harrell was born January 10, 1944 to the late Dempsey and Eva Fulton Adams. She was a lifelong resident of Houston County and the Ashford area. She was a member of New Beginnings Church where she worshipped her Lord and Savior that she loved with all her heart. Mrs. Harrell will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother and friend to all.
Mrs. Harrell is proceeded in death by her parents; husband, William F. Harrell, granddaughter, Brittney Phillips; one sister and two brothers.
Survivors include her children, David F. Harrell (Mildred). Carla Harrell (Carlton Jones); grandchildren, Maryann Henderson (Paul), Connie K. Harrell and Samantha Paige Sellers (Paul) along with nine great grandchildren.
Jewel Ann Cole, a woman of creativity and generous spirit, passed away on March 11, 2026, at Flowers Hospital. Born on January 21, 1952, in Dothan, Alabama she was 74, she was surrounded by the warmth and affection of the family she adored.
Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at Ward Wilson Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Ed Stuart officiating. The family will receive friends from 1-2 PM in the chapel. Flowers will be accepted.
Ann was preceded in death by her parents, J.C. Robinson and Ruby Nell Brannon Robinson, who instilled in her the values of hard work and the importance of family. Her legacy is carried on by her devoted husband of 56 years, Ernest Cole, who stood beside her as both partner and best friend through life’s myriad adventures. including their children: Kim Phillips (Tracy), Greg Cole (Jessica), Angie Anderson (Greg Bongino). Sister, Billie Stevenson (Ian), and her brothers, Doug Robinson (Kay) and David Robinson, Grandchildren, Daniel Phillips (Katie), Noah Phillips, Scott Cole, and Emily and Zach Anderson. Great-grandchild, Gracie Phillips along with numerous nieces and nephews
Ann’s professional life was as vibrant and colorful as the floral arrangements she crafted at the Cherokee Florist, a family-owned business where she worked alongside her father. Her artistic prowess extended to the realm of confectionery working for Baskins Robbins where she became known for her exceptional cake decorating skills. Her talents shone brightly at the Dothan Peanut Festival for over 30 years where she always placed, and recently clinched the overall win for her poignant “In Memory” cake, a true testament to her artistry and her ability to touch hearts through her work.
Throughout her 56 years of marriage, it became evident that Ann embodied generosity and creativity. She poured her love not only into her family but also into every endeavor she pursued, leaving a mark of beauty wherever she went. Ann will be lovingly remembered and immensely missed by all who were fortunate enough to have been graced by her kindness, her laughter, and her boundless creativity. She welcomed everyone with an open heart and extended kindness without reservation. Her friends, family, and countless nieces and nephews could always rely on her for support and warmth.
Mrs. Rufesta Hyman Boutwell of Slocomb peacefully passed away on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Graceville Health Center, at the age of 93. Her life was a shining testament to faith, love, and unwavering devotion to her family and community.
Born on April 29, 1932, in Jackson County, Florida, to William Rufus and Addie Leola Underwood Hyman, Rufesta embraced life with a warm heart and a resilient spirit. A woman of deep faith, she loved the Lord and cherished God’s people, faithfully serving as a member of the First Baptist Church of Slocomb. She shared her gift by playing the piano for many years at various churches. Her joyful presence extended beyond the church walls to the Slocomb Senior Citizens Center, where she found delight in community and friendship. Known for her wonderful cooking and baking, many fondly remember her especially for her delightful chocolate cakes. As a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Rufesta’s gentle spirit and loving nature touched the hearts of all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and grace that will be dearly missed by those she held close.
A celebration of Mrs. Boutwell’s remarkable life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 16, 2026, at the chapel of Sorrells Funeral Home in Slocomb. Her brother, Rev. Ennis Hyman, will officiate the service, with interment to follow at Slocomb City Cemetery. Family and friends are warmly invited to join at the funeral home one hour before the service to share memories and pay their respects.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents; husband, Grover Boutwell; daughter, Cathy Perry; and siblings Myrtle Hicks, Marie Mears, Addie Mae Martin, and Alford Hyman.
Mrs. Boutwell’s loving memory is cherished by her daughters, Janice Smith (Billy) and Sharon Meredith; her granddaughters, Tracy Landey and Jennifer Meredith; five great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; siblings Beth Wood and Reverend Ennis Hyman (Jan); as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who were truly blessed to know her kindness and grace.
Her memory will forever rest in the hearts of all who were fortunate to share in her remarkable journey, a beautiful legacy of love and faith that will endure through the generations.
ECHO COMMUNITY…Mrs. Mable Snell Miller, a resident of the Echo Community, passed away Friday morning, March 13, 2026, at her home. She was 79.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in the Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Phil Craddock officiating. Burial will follow in Echo Church Cemetery. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 P.M. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Mrs. Miller, daughter of the late Edward Gibson “Gib” Snell and Ruby Marie Bayne Snell, was a proud native and lifelong resident of the Echo Community. Echo wasn’t just where she lived — it was home in every sense of the word. She grew up walking through the halls of Echo School, surrounded by familiar faces and the kind of small‑town closeness that shaped who she became. She later graduated from Carroll High School in Ozark.
She spent thirty dedicated years working at West Point Stevens in Abbeville, where she was known for her steady work ethic and her friendly, dependable nature. Before and after long shifts, she was the kind of person who still made time for the people she loved. Her life was simple in the best way — full of family, routine, and the comfort of community.
What people will remember most about her is how deeply she loved her family, especially her grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She never missed a chance to brag on them, spoil them, or simply enjoy their company. She also had a soft spot for her cats, who were constant companions and brought her joy in the quiet moments at home.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Alvin Dee Miller, whom she loved dearly and missed deeply. Their life together was built on love, hard work, and the simple pleasures of everyday living.
Surviving relatives include her son, Rickey Dee Miller (Mary), Echo; brother, Larry Snell (Georgia), Dothan; grandchildren, Brittney Dee Miller (Andrew), Gage Dee Miller (Mikayla), Ashley Etheredge, Samantha Hunter, Tesia Hunter, and Kyle Hunter; great-grandchildren, Kaden, Jayce, Johnathon, Brandon, Gunter, and Gibson; nieces and nephews, Sherri Riley (Tim), Todd Snell (Leanne), and Telisa Glover (Tommy); other relatives include, Margie McCall (Don), Salem Community and Trish Chancey (Todd), Echo Community.
Serving as active pallbearers will be Kyle Hunter, Tim Riley, James Snell, Todd Heath, Todd Snell, and Andy Smith.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
HEADLAND… Michael “Mike” Clive Parker, a resident of Headland, Alabama, passed away Thursday evening, March 12, 2026, at his home. He was 82.
Funeral services will be held 3:00 P.M. Sunday, March 15, 2026, at Bethlehem Baptist Church with Scott Blankenship and Reverend Matthew Quincey officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends following the graveside service at the family residence. Wright Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.
The family is accepting flowers or contributions may be made to the Bethlehem Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 2506 AL-134, Headland, Alabama 36345.
Mr. Parker was born in Headland, Alabama to the late William Clive Parker and Dutchie Lee Spann Parker. He lived in Headland, Alabama his entire life. Mike was a 1961 graduate of Headland high School. He farmed most of his life. He worked with Sunsouth for several years before retiring. Mr. Parker was an avid Cushman scooter collector / restorer and loved to ride them. He was a member of the Bethlehem Baptist Church in Headland, Alabama. The most important thing to Mike was his family.
Along with his parents, he was also preceded in death by his sister and her husband, Jeanette Granberry (Glennis); and his brother and his wife, Billy Parker (Joy).
Leaving to cherish his memories are his wife, Carole Webster Parker; his daughters, Kim Lewis (George), Martha Agnew (Scott), and Jane Wallace (Terry); his sons, Jim Parker (Amanda), Chris Parker (Lora), and Kent Hanchey (Sandra); his nineteen grandchildren; his eighteen great-grandchildren; his niece, Glenda Davis; his nephews, Curry Parker (Mary Jane) and Frank Granberry (Vickie); several great-nieces and great-nephews; a special friend, Bill Jack Granberry; and his canine companion, Maggie.
Serving as active pallbearers will be George Lewis, Terry Wallace Scott Agnew, Bill Jack Granberry, Curry Parker, and David Riley. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Pete Shelley, Danny Ellison, David Thomas, Joe Creel, David Key, Mike Oates, Dr. Jim Bostick, and Dr. Perry Mobley.
The family wants to extend a sincere thank you to Dr. Doug Jackson and his nurses, Tammy & Connie; his very special caretaker, NaKeisha Brown; his caretakers, Jeremy Covington, Mary Patrocinio, Jeanetta Johnson, and Shanetha Brown; his Gentiva Hospice nurse, Jody Coffin; and his sixth floor nurse at Flowers Hospital, Brooklyn.
