Jerry Tyler Killebrew, who was born on March 28, 1947, in Kynesville, Florida, and passed away on October 20, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama, lived a life marked by hard work, devotion to family, and a steadfast presence that touched all who knew him.
He grew up in the Florida panhandle, where he developed the strong work ethic and practical spirit that would guide him throughout his life. Jerry was known as a builder in every sense of the word. He had a gift for seeing what needed to be done and a determination to see it through. He was also known for being stubborn in the best possible way, standing firm in his beliefs and carrying himself with confidence and conviction. Those who knew him best understood that his strength was matched by his loyalty, his energy, and his deep commitment to the people and places he loved.
For more than 30 years, Jerry worked for Jim Walter Corp, where he built a long and respected career. His dedication and reliability were evident in the many years he gave to his work. He later owned All American Housing, continuing to put his knowledge and experience to use in a way that reflected his lifelong connection to building and housing. Most recently, he worked at Jubilee Builders, where he remained active and engaged, always willing to stay busy and contribute wherever he was needed. Jerry took pride in his work and in the value of a job done well, and he carried that same mindset into every part of his life.
Outside of work, Jerry was a man who loved being active. He enjoyed working in the yard and spending time outdoors, where he could stay busy and keep things in order. He was always moving, always doing, and always finding something that needed attention. His favorite saying, “boots on the ground,” reflected the straightforward, hands-on approach he brought to life. It was a phrase that suited him well and captured the practical, determined spirit that defined him.
Above all else, Jerry loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, and loved one whose greatest joy came from being surrounded by those closest to him. He is survived by his wife, Janis Killebrew; his children, Jerry Killebrew, II and his wife Elise, Justin Killebrew, Jeremy Killebrew and his wife Jesse, and Hannah Killebrew; and his siblings, JD Killebrew, Nina Wilson, and Dwan Barnes. He was preceded in death by his siblings Cora Barnes, William Killebrew, James Killebrew, Ivan Killebrew, and Noah Killebrew. His family will remember him for his steady presence, his strong will, and the love he showed in his own dependable way.
Jerry’s life was one of purpose, perseverance, and devotion. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, family loyalty, and a life lived with energy and determination. Those who knew him will remember his strong character, his active spirit, and the many ways he showed his love through action rather than words. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Sara Elizabeth (McCall) Pitts, age 92, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on October 20, 2026. A devoted woman of God, Sara lived a life filled with faith, love, and selfless service to her family, church, and community.
Born on October 15, 1934, to the late Sam Mason McCall and Eula Viola (Rich) McCall, Sara grew up in Cottonwood, Alabama, and graduated from Cottonwood High School in 1953. On May 2, 1953, she married the love of her life, James Calvin “Billy” Pitts, at her childhood church, St. Mary’s Methodist Church.
Sara was a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church since the 1960s, dedicating much of her life to serving the Lord and caring for others. She had a servant’s heart, especially for the sick and elderly, and lovingly shared her time and talents with those in need. She enjoyed crocheting, knitting, and baking, often blessing others with her handmade gifts and delicious treats.
Above all, Sara treasured her family and leaves behind a beautiful legacy of unwavering faith, kindness, and unconditional love.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Calvin “Billy” Pitts; her sons, James Rodney Pitts and Bobby Ray Pitts; brothers, Theodore McCall, Edward McCall, Earl Gene McCall, and Sammy McCall; and great-grandson, Brandon Tyler Easton.
She is survived by her loving daughters, Peggy Pitts Sheheen and Sara Nancy Knowles (Terry); her sisters, Lonnell Clark and Patty Sue Fowler; and many cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing she is resting in the arms of her Savior. Her life was a beautiful testimony of faith, and her legacy of love and service will continue for generations to come.
Funeral service will be held at 11 AM, Monday, October 26, 2026 at Calvary Baptist Church in Cottonwood with Reverend Tommy White officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery with Ward Wilson Funeral Home officiating. The family will receive friends from 10 AM until 11 AM, prior to the service at Calvary Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Sara’s honor to Calvary Baptist Church, St. Mary’s Cemetery, or Gentiva Hospice.
Joey Glenn McKnight, a resident of Dale County, between Headland & Midland City, passed away early Thursday morning, October 22, 2026, at his home. He was 64.
There are no funeral or memorial services planned at this time. Holman-Headland Mortuary & Cremations is in charge of arrangements.
Joey McKnight was born in Troy, Alabama and was raised in Dale County, son of the late James Webster McKnight and Lula Mae Hartzog McKnight. He was retired, due to disability, from ADK Building Supply in Dothan. Joey was preceded in death by his former wife, Nancy McGovern McKnight, a brother, Danny Allen McKnight, a nephew, Christopher Allen McKnight, and son-in-law, Justin Kyle Reynolds.
Surviving relatives include a daughter, Amanda Reynolds, Headland; a son, Adam McKnight (Kaitlyn), Dothan; step-mother, Miriam McKnight, Elba, AL; sisters, Patricia McKnight Windham, Midland City; and Donna Main, Daleville; grandchildren, Avanna Reynolds, Bradley Reynolds, Emily Reynolds, Avery Henderson and Brantley Wray, and a nephew, Jonathan McKnight.
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.
ARITON…Mary Teresa Brantley, a resident of Ariton, passed away late Wednesday afternoon, October 21, 2026, at UAB Hospital. She was 63.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Sunday, October 25, 2026, at Robert F. Zumstein Field at Ariton High School with Pastor Lanice Bonds officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 P.M. Sunday at the football field. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.
A complete obituary with a list of survivors will be announced later by Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
Jerry Franklin Brown, 90, a resident of Dothan, formerly of Brewton, passed away on Monday, October 19, 2026, at his residence following a brief illness.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at Glover Funeral Home & Crematory with Dr. Taylor Rutland officiating. Burial will follow at Memory Hill Cemetery with Glover Funeral Home & Crematory directing. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 10:45 a.m., Wednesday, October 28, 2026, prior to the services.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Dothan, 300 W. Main Street, Dothan, AL 36301, or First Baptist Church of Brewton, 324 Belleville, AL 36426.
Jerry was born July 7, 1936, in Bailey, Mississippi, to the late William Franklin & Mary Ellen (White) Brown. He spent the early years of his life there and was a graduate of Ponta High School in Bailey. Following high school, he went to work as a lineman, working his way up within the company. Jerry served as the Superintendent of Operations in Southern Pine Electrical Cooperative for 40 plus years in Brewton. Outside of work, he was an avid golfer, previous longtime member of the Brewton Lions Club, and had deep love for Auburn University Athletics, “War Eagle!” Jerry was a current member of First Baptist Church of Dothan, and a former long-time member of First Baptist Church of Brewton during his time there.
He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Julia Ann Childress Brown; his daughter, Jennifer Brown Miles; his sister, Doris Florette White; and his brother, William Larry Brown.
He is survived by his son, Jerry Franklin Brown, Jr. (Ellen) of Lewisville, TX; his two daughters, JoEllen Reeves Brown (John West) of Destin, FL, and Ashley Odom McGhee (Jason) of Dothan; his son-in-law, Howard Miles of Birmingham; his six grandchildren, Jarred Reeves Brown (Jennifer) of Coppel, TX, Samuel Ward Patton of Boston, MA; Sarah Lynne Patton of Helena, Benjamin Carroll Patton of Homewood, Anna Bentley McGhee of Dothan, and Charles Franklin McGhee of Dothan; his four great-grandchildren, Harper Brown, Holland Brown, Henry Brown, and Hayes Brown; and several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Carla McNealy, Barbara Walker, Catresha Walker, Billy Kennedy, and Enhabit Hospice, for the love and care shown to their loved one during this time.
Serving as pallbearers will be Jarred Brown, Sam Patton, Charlie McGhee, Ben Patton, Jason McGhee, John West, Jerry Brown, and Howard Miles.
Glover Funeral Home and Crematory has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Bernard Ivey Eddins, age 90, passed away on October 20, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama.
Bernard was born on November 4, 1935, in Dothan, where he was also raised. He spent his younger years working on his family farm, a beginning that helped shape the steady, hardworking, and humble life he would go on to lead. He graduated from Dothan High School in 1954, carrying with him the values of hard work and perseverance that would remain with him throughout his life. He often remembered his early years as those of a simple man, and he carried that simplicity with grace. He did not have electricity until high school, yet he never viewed those early years as a hardship. Instead, he embraced life with gratitude, perseverance, and a deep appreciation for the blessings that came his way.
Bernard devoted much of his career to IBM, where he began in repair work and steadily advanced through the company. Through dedication and skill, he became a district specialist and later manager of the department. His work took him to many places, and he valued the travel that came with his career. After retiring in 1992, he returned to Dothan, the city he always considered home.
Bernard was a man who found joy in the outdoors and in the simple pleasures of life. He loved golf, yard work, and spending time outside. He also enjoyed deep sea fishing in Connecticut. More than anything, Bernard loved his family deeply, and his life was marked by loyalty, devotion, and quiet strength.
Bernard was baptized at First Baptist Church in Dothan at a young age, where he was a member and sang in the youth choir. After moving back to Dothan later in life, he again became a faithful member of First Baptist, where he continued to worship. Although he eventually had to stop attending services, his faith and his lifelong connection to the church remained an important part of his life.
He is survived by his wife of almost 70 years, Sue Braidfoot Eddins; his son, Mark Eddins (Lois); his daughter, Tracy Simonson (Steven); his grandchildren, Lindsay Fowler (Brooks), Chelsea Binkhorn (Jon), Weston Viglione, Carson Viglione (Melissa), Blake Eddins (Katie), and Alex Woodworth (Justin); and his great-grandchildren, Tate, June, Forest, and Violet Fowler, Clementine and Josephine Blinkhorn, Cosimo and Valentina Viglione, Wesley and Calla Eddins, and Amelia and Jackson Woodworth. He is also survived by his nieces, Terry Estey (Sam) and their children, Sammy and Megan, and Lisa D’Aoust, nephews, Kim Johns, Neal Taylor, Chris Taylor, and Ren Taylor. He also leaves behind his longtime friend, Jarek Wawryn and other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harrison Eddins, Sr. and Alice Marie Eddins; his son, Thomas Andrew Eddins; his brother, Harrison Eddins, Jr.; and his sisters, Marjorie Elizabeth Taylor and Mary Frances Johns.
Bernard will be remembered as a kind and steady man whose life reflected faithfulness, hard work, and love for family. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His family and friends will remember his warm presence, his quiet humor, and the example he set through a life well lived.
A celebration of Bernard’s life will be held on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 2pm in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Taylor Rutland officiating. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service. He will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park.
