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RED MOUNTAIN  PARK

 Perhaps you have read in the newspaper or seen on TV info about the new RED MOUNTAIN PARK that is currently being built in Birmingham.  When finished, it will be the largest "green" park in America even larger than New York City's famous Central Park.   It will stretch from Vulcan to Bessemer along Red Mountain encompassing Ishkooda, No. 11, Tarpley City, Wenonah and all the other ore mines and mining camps that most of us are so familiar with as kids from either our relatives working there, or living there ourselves, or just playing there.  Most of us Jones Valley alums think of Blueberry Hill or Shannon/Oxmoor straights for drag racing in Dad's car.....but this excited, dedicated Red Mountain Park staff envisions a beautiful park with hiking/biking trails and lakes... and tours of former mining structures and camp houses.....and a museum full of OUR memories recorded for future generations to learn about what it was like to live and work and grow up in a booming mining area that built Birmingham into the Magic City!   What an honor for our hardworking parents....as well as ourselves to be the CENTER PIECE of a multi-million dollar tourist attraction!   Read about the plans on www.redmountainpark.org....  or on FaceBook...."Red Mountain Park" and join one of the monthly tours that shows the cleanup and development work currently being done in our old stomping grounds!   Amazing!  Hope you will be part of it.  

Shirley Tipper Crumpton  JV ‘59
_____________

HELLO!   I'm  Paul Stokes (JV ’63), brother of Jerry (’58) and Becky (‘59), and a certified, card-carrying "Camp Kid", since I grew up in the Ishkooda mining camp.

I have been working closely with the Red Mountain Park staff for several months, trying to help them with their plans to re-create a bit of the Red Mountain history that many of us were a part of.  I even went to the old mine sites and camps last weekend for a personal mining history tour.  It was fantastic!

The Park staff has run into many roadblocks to gathering the history of the mines and camps,  including the fact that TCI seems to have destroyed all their documentation, such as employee lists and mine records.  They are, literally, having to go through old tax records, etc. to try and come up with names of the camp residents and mine workers.  They are very interested in hearing from us Jones Valley kids.

I would like to help them in their efforts by inviting any and all of you that either grew up in the mining camps... had relatives that worked there.... or even know stories and/or have additional information about life in the camps.... to share your knowledge and memories with them....as well as sending me names of relatives and acquaintances who lived in the areas and worked there so we can piece together as accurate a history as possible.  

The park staff is trying to re-create not only the physical mining camp areas, but to get a handle on the cultural aspects as well.  For example, they were stunned when I told them about the big Christmas tree (actually a BIG pole with strings of lights) located near the #13 tipple.  Do any of you remember this??  I sure do, since Daddy would take us up there to “help” him change the bulbs.

Eventually, I would like to put everyone in touch with the Red Mountain Park staff directly, but, as a start, I would ask you to respond to my e-mail address stokesbama@aol.com with whatever you have to offer...or if you prefer, you may also send info to me via US mail to my home address, 3712 Wyatt Lane, Texarkana, Texas 75503.  I’d like to see what kind of response I get before turning things over to RMP. 

If you have something that would be better handled via a phone conversation, please contact Shirley Tipper Crumpton, JV '59, at 205-980-2086.   I travel extensively in my job (am on the West coast almost every week), and Shirley is firmly settled in Hoover, so she would be the best for your telephone calls.

Again, this is an effort to re-create a portion of Birmingham’s history, as well as OUR history, and I would like to see them succeed.  Anything you can offer would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

Paul

A POEM

Honoring Mrs. Denson's 100th Birthday

by:  Carol Penfield Burgay
(Class of ’68) 

The best example of what a teacher should be . .
your excitement and enthusiasm was contagious, you see.
To Jones Valley students you’re a priceless treasure
and the lessons you taught always blessed beyond measure.

A constant source of care and concern,
insights, opinions, laughter and fun.
You inspired us to appreciate biology,
and your class was always where we wanted to be!

 We learned all about chlorophyll and algae too,
frogs and earthworms, to name just a few.
Photosynthesis and molecules were surprising delights
and our “field” trips produced some amazing sights.

 Now we pray the good Lord, our Father above,
will continue to bless you with lots of His love.
And we’ll think of you often and want you to know . .
you’ve enriched our lives more than silver and gold! 

(C6  H12  O6)

 Happy 100^th Birthday !! 

7/4/09

REUNIONS

You can call me at:

(205) 910-5413 - cell
(205) 733-o267 - home
(205) 979-5420 - work

HODGES, CLARENCE MILTON "MILT", of Hoover, Alabama passed away on February 8th 2010 at the age of 88. He was a loving husband and father. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Millie. He is survived by one son, Porter. He was a varsity football player and graduate of Jones Valley High School. He attended Auburn University until the start of the World War II. He was a B-17 Pilot and 1st Lieutenant in the 490th Bomber Group during the war. Stationed in England, he successfully piloted 32 Combat Bombing Missions over Germany without losing his plane or his crew. He and his crew were hand picked by General Doolittle to personally fly Paul Tibbits back to the U.S. from the European Theater for Tibbit's to prepare for his mission in the Pacific Theater. He returned to Europe and flew relief missions over France and Germany for 3 additional months. His original Pilot logs are held in the Southern Museum of Flight. After the war, he returned to Auburn University and graduated in 1948 with a Bachelors' Degree in Civil Engineering and Land Surveying. He was employed with US Steel Corporation and headed various Engineering and Safety Divisions until he retired as the General Superintendent of Railroads and Material Handling after 40 years of service. He was a former member of Woodward Country Club and one of the original members of Hoover Country Club where he past served on the Board of Directors. He was an avid golfer with 3 holes-in-one. He was a true gentleman and will be greatly missed by his family and many friends. The family would like to thank Home Instead Senior Care and especially thank his two care givers, Bennie Miller and Sharon Kendrick's, both of whom showed so much love, respect, and caring in his final years. One of his final requests was to have he and Millie's ashes spread together in a private spot that they picked out many years ago and requested that no memorial service be held.

CARR, ROBERT "BOBBY" MORROW, age 81, of Hueytown, AL, went home to be with his Lord Thursday, January 14, 2010. He was a member of The Baptist Church at McAdory and Woodward Golf and Country Club. He was a veteran serving in the U.S. Air Force. Mr. Carr graduated from Jones Valley High School, and the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, where he was named to the "All Century Baseball Team". He went on to play professional baseball with the Cleveland Indians. He was a proud supporter of the University of Alabama Athletic Program. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Mary Beth Carr; his daughters, Susan Harrison, Laura Anderson, Barbara (Doug) Walker and Amy Mink; his grandchildren, Angel, Beth, Hannah, Ryan, Karson, Cassidy and Holden; his great grandson, Trey and his nephew, Bobby Carr of Columbus, GA. Funeral Services will be held at The Baptist Church at McAdory Saturday, January 16, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. Rev. Bill McCall officiating. Visitation will be held Friday, January 15, 2010 from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the church. The family requests that Memorial Contributions be made to The Baptist Church at McAdory "Building Fund" or the Big Oak Ranch.

VEITCH, BEULAH MILES WILKERSON Beulah Miles Wilkerson Veitch, 106, went to be with her Lord and Savior on January 11, 2010. She was born, at home in Birmingham, on November 12, 1903 and is the daughter of the late John A. Miles and Maggie Patton Miles. She attended Jones Valley High School.  Beulah married John Ward Wilkerson in 1922, had four children and was widowed in 1941. In 1936 she accepted the Lord at a tent revival in Birmingham, led by Dr. Glenn V. Tingley of the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination and later joined West End Alliance Church where she was a member for 50 years. In 1943, she married Joe C. Veitch and together they had a prison ministry at Kilby and Draper Prisons. She was head deaconess in the church and they entertained many missionaries in their home. Beulah loved to cook and was always busy cooking, cleaning or helping other people. She also had a green thumb and had a beautiful flower garden. In later years, she even found enough ground around her apartment to grow tomato plants and flowers and did so until the age of 97. She joined Hunter Street Baptist Church in 1992 and was a member of the Joy Friendship Sunday School Class until her death. Her crowning achievement was being a loving, mother and grandmother to her family. Her life produced a remarkable legacy of 4 children, 2 step-children, 14 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 22 great-great grandchildren. She is survived by her daughters, Gladys Craig (Dick) of Helena, Peggie Gaston (Wilbur) of Montevallo, step-daughter Mary Sorrell of Summerville, Fl, daughter-in-law Merrie Wilkerson of Powder Springs, GA. and two nieces, Doris Miller of Helena, and Elsie Hayes of Sylacaga. Her grandchildren, Lynda Brannon (Fred) of Hoover, Pam Thrasher (Randy) of Marietta, GA, Brenda Gant (Lloyd) of Townsend, TN, Britt Gaston (Melody) of Trenton, GA, Deborah McNamee (Mike), Sharon Pearson, JoAnne Cofer (Randy), Cheryl LaFontaine (Joe), all of Birmingham, and Donna Ratcliff of Summerville, Fl, Becky Hill (Gary) of Provo, Utah. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Margaret Ann Miles and Thelma Smith, and brother, Charlie Miles, her son, John Ward Wilkerson, Jr., daughter, Betty Campbell, step-daughter, Betty Jo Noel, granddaughter, Glenda Wells, grandson, Reggie Campbell and great-granddaughter, Erin Gaston. Funeral services will be held at Hunter Street Baptist Church in the Chapel on Friday, January 15 at 11:30 a.m. with Dr. Buddy Gray, Rev. Chris Sullivan and Rev. Brom Cowser officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:30-11:30 before the service and burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery. The family would like to express their thanks and gratitude to New Beacon Hospice to Lucy, David, Gayle, and Bev. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Hunter Street Baptist Church, 2600 John Hawkins Parkway, Hoover, AL 35226.

Funeral for Alvin Hugh Vick, 70, of Decatur will be Sunday, Jan. 10, 2010, at 2 p.m. at Shelton Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Joe Hoover and the Rev. Dr. Scotty Hogan officiating.  Burial will be in Burningtree Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be one and a half hours prior to the service.  Mr. Vick, who died Friday, Jan. 8, 2010, was born Nov. 1, 1939, in Birmingham to Roy Douglas Vick and Ina Grady Vick.  He was a member of Westmeade Baptist Church. He was retired from General Electric.  He is survived by his wife, Walterene Jones Vick; one son, Michael Vick of Decatur; two sisters, Janet Atkins of Birmingham and Ann Liner of Jacksonville, Fla.; and one granddaughter, Savannah Vick of Decatur.  Pallbearers will be John Landers, Jackie Burney, Terry Steele, Brad Hamilton, Brad King and Rusty Smith.  In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorial donations be made to Alacare Hospice, Gideons International or Westmeade Baptist Church.

MCBRAYER, BILLY EUGENE, passed away January 4, 2010.  He graduated from Jones Valley High School class of 1947,  a Korean War veteran, a member of Springville First United Methodist Church and a longtime member of West End Baptist Church. He enjoyed square dancing for many years with the Birmingham Solos, Eastern Wranglers, Kurly Q's, and Logan Martin Swingers, Campers and Dancers. He was retired from US Steel with 42 years of service. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mamie and Herman McBrayer. Services will be Thursday, January 7 at 2pm in the Chapel with burial in Jefferson Memorial Gardens East. Visitation will be from 5 until 7pm Wednesday. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Verlie McBrayer; children, Richard E. "Ricky" (Donna) McBrayer, Thomas A. "Tommy" (Tamara) McBrayer, Donald F. "Don" (Autumn) McBrayer, Pamela McBrayer (Ramón) Arias; grandchildren, Staci Butler, Kevin McBrayer, Brooke and Jason Johnson, Brent and Jennifer McBrayer, Matthew Arias, Christopher Arias, Daniel Bahkle, Bruce Bahkle, Ben McBrayer, and Hannah McBrayer; great grandchildren, Madison Johnson, Rylie Johnson, Derrick Butler, Isabella Butler, and Colton McBrayer; stepchildren, Jim Hyatt, John and Susan Hyatt; and step-grandchildren, Michael Hyatt, Hayden Hyatt, and Kirsten Hyatt. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Springville First United Methodist Church or the charity of your choice. Jefferson Memorial Trussville directing.

CUNNINGHAM, CHARLES HAMILTON, age 63, of McCalla, AL, went to be with the Lord on Friday, December 25, 2009. Charles was born on May 27, 1946 in Fairfield, AL. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1965 to 1969. His last year of service was in Vietnam. Charles was devoted to his wife, children, grandchildren and his church. He was married to the love of his life Sidera Elaine Patterson on April 9, 1974 for 35 years. Charles was a member of Loveless Park Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, Travis and Dorothy Cunningham. Charles is survived by his wife, Sidera; children, John D. Ratliff (Barb), Jennifer E. Clark (Glynn) and Michael S. Sumerlin (Wendy); grandchildren, Andrew Ratliff, Matthew Ratliff, Kalee Slater, Kandice Ratliff, Kyle Ratliff, Zane Ratliff, Gracean Ritliff, Seth Sumerlin and Brandon Sumerlin; great-grandchildren, Lily, Poppy, Sweet Pea and Gabriel Ratliff; sister, Janet Berry (Craig); nieces and nephews, Amy Musgrove, Grant Berry, Ashley Smith and Abbey LeCroy. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, December 29, 2009 at 11 a.m. at Loveless Park Baptist Church with burial to follow in Hickman Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday, December 28, 2009 from 6 until 8 p.m. at the church. Bessemer Brown Service Funeral Home is honored to serve the Cunningham family.

MILLER, MRS. WANDA K., age 69, of Huntsville, Alabama passed away December 7, 2009. She was a loving mother and grandmother who spent years with her husband working with the youth in the church and community. Mrs. Miller will be greatly missed by many but is celebrating with her Savior in Heaven .She was a member of Willowbrook Baptist Church. Receiving of the friends will be Wednesday at 2:30 PM at Elmwood Chapel, with funeral services at 3:30 PM and burial immediately following. Rev. Robert Gray of Oak Ridge, TN, will be officiating. Survivors include her husband of 50 years, George Miller; son and daughter-in-law, Brad and Shelley Miller of Atlanta, GA; daughter and son-in-law, Traci and Jim McClanahan of Knoxville, TN; grandchildren, Chase, Madison and Alexis Miller of Atlanta, GA; and David and Kaylee McClanahan of Knoxville, TN; sister-in-law, Jean Wilbanks of Birmingham, AL; sister-in-law and husband Edna Erle and Ernest McCarty of Birmingham, AL; sister-in-law Maryann Miller of Virginia Beach, VA; and many nieces and nephews. Ms. Miller was preceded in death by sisters, Carol Pridgen and Mildred Bradley; brothers, Robert Wilbanks, Johnny Wilbanks, Henry Clark Wilbanks, Jr.

WESLEY, KENNETH FORREST, SR. Kenneth Forrest Wesley, Sr., age 84, of Hueytown, died peacefully Saturday, November 28, 2009. He was a graduate of Jones Valley High School and attended Birmingham Southern College. He was a veteran of World War II and proudly served in the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing based primarily in the South Pacific. He was a member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church in Hueytown for over 45 years where he served in the Judson Jones Prayer Fellowship and the Marantha Sunday School class. Previously, he served as an ordained deacon at West End Highland Baptist Church. He was retired from South Central Bell after 33 years of employment. He was preceded in death by his father, A. E. Wesley, mother, Annie Wesley, brother, Roy Wesley and sister, Geraldine Hartwig. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Margaret Anne Jackson Wesley; son, Ken F. Wesley, Jr. (Virginia); daughter, Leigh Ann Roberson (Robby); and grandchildren, Hali Roberson and Victoria Roberson. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 1, 2009 at Peoples Chapel Funeral Home, 195 Brooklane Drive, Hueytown, Alabama 35023 from 10 to 11 a.m. with funeral service immediately following. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Alzheimer's of Central Alabama, PO Box 2273, Birmingham, AL 35201. Peoples Chapel Funeral Home Directing

WALTON, NANCY "COOKIE" JONES, passed away on Friday, December 4, 2009. She was a member of All Saints' Episcopal Church and worked at the Homewood Public Library. She was a loving mother and grandmother. Mrs. Walton was preceded in death by her parents, Billie Vines Jones and Carl Elliot Jones and her brother Neil Jones. She is survived by her sons, David Walton and Neil Walton; daughters, Amanda Walton (Sam Peroulas) and Rebekah Walton Smith (Graham); grandchildren, Cole, Eli and Max McCutcheon, Tucker and Reid Smith (Rebekah) and Siena Peroulas (Amanda). The family will receive friends on Sunday evening, December 6, 2009 from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Ridout's Valley Chapel in Homewood. The funeral service will be held on Monday, December 7, 2009 commencing at 11:00 also at Ridout's Valley Chapel.

MILLER, BARRY Mr. Barry L. Miller, age 63 of Mountain Brook, passed away on Sunday, November 22, 2009. A member of Mountain Brook Baptist Church for 35 years, he served faithfully in the Rehobeth Sunday School Class, as a deacon, and as a life deacon. A faithful employee for 34 years with Birmingham Wholesale Furniture Company, Mr. Miller was also a member of the Vestavia Country Club, loved art, and enjoyed painting and creating sculptures of stone and clay. He is survived by his wife, Honey Miller; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Judy and Sam Lowrey; cousins, Mr. and Mrs. Lamar Stewart and Mr. and Mrs. James E. Jones; and a host of other cousins and family members. Graveside services will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, November 24th, at Ridout's Southern Heritage Cemetery in Pelham. The Memorial Service will then be held at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary of Mountain Brook Baptist Church. The family will receive friends immediately following the memorial service in Mountain Brook Baptist Church's Hudson Hall. In lieu of usual remembrances, memorials honoring Barry L. Miller may be directed to the Tulane Cancer Center's Dr. Oliver Sartor with eternal gratitude for his compassion and loving care. The address is Tulane Cancer Center, Memo: Sartor/Prostate Cancer; Dr. Oliver Sartor located at 1430 Tulane Avenue SL-78, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112 or to the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center with deepest appreciation to Dr. John Fiveash and Dr. Graeme Bolger. Services are under the direction of Ridout's Valley Chapel (879-3401) in Homewood.

CORNELIUS, JACK, age 79, of Lipscomb, AL, went to be with Jesus on Thursday, November 12, 2009. He was a member of Union Baptist Church of Lipscomb. He was retired from R.L. Zeigler after 55 years of service and also served as a Head Scorer for NASCAR sanctioned races for many years. Funeral Services will be held at Bessemer Brown Service Funeral Home on Monday, November 16, 2009 at 11:00 am with burial in Highland Memorial Gardens. Rev. Dewey Mayfield and Bro. David Mahaffey will be officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:00 am until 11:00 am. He would say, he is a blessed man because of the family he so loved. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James B. Cornelius, Sr. and brother, James B. Cornelius, Jr. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Bell Cornelius; children, Carol J. Cornelius, Jack E. Cornelius (Jeanne) and Cheryl L. Cornelius; grandchildren, Dustin Cornelius (Heather), Linsey Harmon (Chris) and Matthew Cornelius. He also leaves behind two precious great-grandchildren, Kailey and Caleb Cornelius; as well as numerous family members and friends. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contribution be made to Union Baptist Church of Lipscomb, 5187 Avenue K, Lipscomb, AL 35020. Bessemer Brown Service Funeral Home is honored to serve the Cornelius family.

BLOUNT, MR. DARRELL LEE, SR., age 50, of Birmingham, passed away Tuesday, October 6, 2009. He was a member of Greater St. John Baptist Church, Powderly. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Donna J. Blount; son, Darrell Blount, Jr.; mother, Mrs. Lillie R. Blount; sister, Mrs. Beverly (Herman) Stone; brother, Mr. Nathaniel Blount, Jr. (Joyce); and granddaughter, Demetria Anaijah Blount. Viewing Sunday from 1 - 6 PM. The family will receive visitors from 5 - 6 at Arrington's Chapel. Funeral service will be Monday, October 12th at 11:00 AM from the church with burial in Elmwood Cemetery. Arrington Funeral Home, Inc. directing.

RITA CAMPBELL WILLIAMS

WILLIAMS, MS. RITA CAMPBELL, age 46, of Birmingham, passed away on Saturday, October 3, 2009. A graduate of Jones Valley High School and Booker T. Washington Business College. Her working career spans some 18 years with Jefferson County. She was a member of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, Ensley. She is survived by her son, Rashad (Iris) Campbell; mother, Patricia Campbell; father, Joseph Thomas; sisters, Cynthia Burnett and Xanthier Campbell; brothers, Carl (Veretta) and Jessie Campbell and Andre Thomas; and grandson, Mikel Campbell. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2009 at 12:00 noon at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, Ensley with burial in Carver Memorial Gardens. No public viewing. Arrington Funeral Home directing.

Larry Pendley passed away on October 4, 2009, at the age of 63. 

He lived in Watkinsville, GA.  Larry was a retired Master Sergent from the U.S. Army.

NEEDHAM, PAMELA DIANE NEWMAN, age 54, of Oneonta, AL, passed away August 23, 2009. She was born in Jefferson County, AL to Herbert Arlee Newman and Imogene Mealer Newman. She was a homemaker. She was predeceased by her mother. She is survived by her daughter, Lacie Hamilton (Eric) of Locust Fork, AL; son, James "Buddy" Needham (Deanna) of Snead, AL; grandchildren, Alyssa Hamilton, Juliana Hamilton, Emellie Hamilton, Kiley Needham, and Olivia Needham; father, Herbert Arlee Newman of Moody, AL; sisters, Melanie Latham (Jeff) of Remlap, AL, Judi Peters (Dale) of Moody, AL and Lee Newman (Leslie) of Riverside, AL; a host of nieces and nephews. Funeral service will be August 26, 2009 at Lemley Chapel at 11:00 AM with interment in Oak Hill Cemetery. Bro. Barry Hallman officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday from 5 until 8 PM and on Wednesday from 8 AM until funeral time. Pallbearers will be James "Buddy" Needham, Eric Hamilton, Jeff Latham, Dale Peters, Lee Newman and Farris Cason. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society in Birmingham, AL. Lemley Funeral Home & Crematory directing.

Harris, Randy, age 57 passed away Monday, August 24^th, 2009.  The talented singer was preceded in death by his parents, Robert (Turp) and Polly Harris.  He is survived by his wife of over 13 years, Cindy, daughter, Amanda, two stepsons, Josh and Cody, 3 grandchildren, Zoe, Daniel and Lila, 3 brothers, Jerry, Mike and David, one sister, Carol,  father and mother in-law, L.S. and Carol Parker and numerous nieces and nephews.  A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 5^th from 2:00 until 5:00 at Westwood Baptist Church , 2349 Forestdale Boulevard .  His beautiful voice will forever be etched in the minds of those who loved him. A special thanks goes out to Roy Attison and family and Leslie Mixon for making his transition to Heaven a smooth ride. Also, a big thank you to the staff at Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville for their true compassion and concern during his final days.  

PRICE, CYNTHIA HULSEY, age 55, of Pleasant Grove, Alabama, passed away on August 11, 2009. Funeral Services will be held at Patterson-Forest Grove Funeral Home on Friday, August 14, 2009 at 10:00 A.M. with burial in Forest Grove Memorial Gardens. Dr. Davin Watkins officiating. Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2009 from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Survivors: Husband, Tommy Price; Son, John Price; Daughters, Jeannie Price, Halee Price; Mother, Billie Ann Hulsey; Grandchild, Cameron Gagliano.

ELTON, JAMES ARTHUR, age 84, of Bessemer, Alabama passed away Saturday, August 8, 2009. Mr. Shelton was a member of Peoples Church in Hueytown and retired from Millbrook Bakery. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Laura Beth "L B" Shelton. Mr. Shelton is survived by his loving wife of 61 years Olivia Shelton; sons, Wayne (Charlene) Shelton and Johnny (Dale) Shelton; daughter, Judy (Bryant) Jones; grandchildren, Megan (Brad) Beard, Zack Shelton, Shelley Grace and Jordan Jones; great-granddaughter, Laura Faith Beard; and sister, Betty (Lloyd) Mahan. Funeral services will be Tuesday, August 11, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. at Valhalla Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Valhalla Cemetery. Bro. Buddy Poe will be officiating. The family will receive friends Monday, August 10 from 5:00-7:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

SWATEK, VIRGINIA, of Alabaster, passed away on Thursday, August 6, 2009 at the age of 68. She was preceded in death by her mother, Beaulah Norwood. She is survived by her husband of 28 years, Tom Swatek; four children, Van Shell (Sheila), Terri Matherson (Frank), Mike Swatek (Jennifer), and Kelly Brown (David); and thirteen grandchildren. The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 9, 2009, from 5:00-7:00 PM at Currie-Jefferson Funeral Home on Hwy 150 in Hoover. Funeral service will be Monday, August 10, 2009, at 11:00 AM in the funeral home chapel, Father Ray Dunmyer officiating. Interment will follow in Jefferson Memorial Gardens, South.

Imogene Pierce Dauphin, age 72, passed away after a lengthy illness, on Friday, July 31, 2009. Beloved wife of Harold R. Dauphin. Mother of Janet Dauphin Fox (David), and the late Kristen Cecelia Dauphin. Grandmother of Kristen Virginia Fox. Sister of Sara Elizabeth (Libby) Blackwell. Preceded in death by her father L D Pierce, mother Verda Pierce Meeker, stepfather Theodore (Sid) Meeker, and siblings Lester Donald Pierce, Betty Lorraine Brand, Mary Jo DeLoach Mitchell. Survived by her beloved dog Tangeaux. A native of Birmingham, Al. and a resident of Metairie. Mrs. Dauphin retired as an executive secretary from CBS after working 25 years in outdoor advertising. She was a member of Beta Sigma Phi, XI XI Chapter. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Funeral Mass at St. Angela Merici, 901 Beverly Garden, Metairie, on Tuesday, August 4, 2009 at 11:00am. Visitation from 10:00am until time of service. An evening wake will be held at Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home, 4747 Veterans Blvd., Metairie, Monday August 3rd, from 6 to 8:00pm. Interment in Lakelawn Mausoleum. In Lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Angela Merici. Online condolences at www.legacy.com.

KITCHENS, TIMMY AL, age 59, of Montevallo, AL, passed away Wednesday, July 29, 2009. He was born on April 17, 1950 in Pea Ridge. He was preceded in death by his parents, Murriel Ellene "Ted" K. Kitchens, Brady Herston Kitchens; a sister, Darlyne K. C. Brand. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Joyce L. H. Kitchens; sisters, Kay (James) Lawley, Mona (David) Lamb and Nanette (Tim) Tingle; brothers-in-law, David L. Brand and Jimmy Hutchison; numerous nieces and nephews. Timmy graduated from Jones Valley High School in 1968. In 1969 Timmy married Joyce, the love of his life. He served in the Army from 1969 thru 1972. He was stationed in Germany and served as a medic. He came back home and worked at multiple jobs as a welder, mechanic, maintenance worker, manager, and at one point he and Joyce had their own company and could weld anything. He loved fast cars and motorcycles. His Harley was his Freedom on the road. He loved his wife and all their critters. He was the best brother and friend to us all. Visitation will be held Sunday, August 2, 2009 from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Valhalla Funeral Home, Midfield. Graveside Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, August 3, 2009 at the American Village Alabama National Cemetery. Willie Hatcher officiating. Valhalla Funeral Home Directing. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to the American Heart Association .

HUNTER, CATHERINE HORTON., of Montgomery, AL and formally of Birmingham, AL passed away in Montgomery on Wednesday, June 17, 2009. She was predeceased by her husband, Harold Hunter; and also two sisters, Pauline White and Mildred Langston, both of Birmingham, AL. Catherine is survived by her son, Norman H. Hunter of Prattville, AL; one sister, Ruth Edwards (Vic) of Shannon, AL; and one brother, James Horton (Vera) of Omaha, NE; five granddaughters, Dianna, Rebecca, Elizabeth, Leah and Rachel Hunter, all of Forsyth, GA. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who all loved her dearly. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 19, 2009 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Ridout's Elmwood Chapel with funeral services to be held Saturday June 20, 2009 at 11:00 AM in the Chapel at Ridout's Elmwood Chapel with burial to follow in Elmwood Cemetery.

Ernie Wilson - class of 1970 passed away today (June 19).  Ernie is survived by his wife, Susan, one daughter - Lanie and 2 grandchildren, one sister - Faye Wilson Yarchak (class of 1967) and one brother - Wyman Wilson (class of 1974).

Ernie was 1st cousin with the Huguley family (Terry (68), Sandy (69), Stan (72), Sheila (74) and Jeff (80).

Visitation will be Monday, June 22 from 6-8
Services Tuesday, June 23 at 2:00

Patterson-Forest Grove Funeral Home
1498 5th Ave.
Pleasant Grove, AL 35127
205-744-1611

HAIG, EDWARD JAMES "JIM", after 83, years of life is now on eternal patrol with Jesus. Born in Venice, California. He was a graduate of Jones Valley High School and Jefferson State College, US Navy - Submarine Veteran, with two years duty aboard the USS Stingray, Retired as a Lieutenant, after 30 years of service with the Birmingham Police Department. Jim was a member of Forestdale Baptist Church and the men's Sunday School Class. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Audrey Rollins Haig; son, James "Kenny" (Joan) Haig; daughter, Carol (Tom) Felton; granddaughters, Julie (Tyler) Jones and Lisa Felton; and brother-in-law, Robert Rollins. Visitation will be held at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home on Friday, June 12, 2009 from 10:00AM-11:00AM. Graveside services will follow in Jefferson Memorial Gardens East at 11:00 AM. The family wishes to thank New Beacon Hospice and Dr. John Dumas for their loving care of our "Pop". In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Forestdale Baptist Church 1400 Brisbane Ave. Birmingham, AL 35214.

Bob(Robert C. Nabors) of Momntgomery,  Al Passed away at Baptist Medical Center East on Sunday, May 10, 2009.

Bob was a loving husband and father, a respected businessman in the community for more than 30 years, and a loyal friend.  

Bob is survived by his wife of 58 years, Dorothy, who cared for him unselfishly throughout  his illness.

He is also survived by two children and their spouses, Chris and Gail Nabors and Nan and Mike Stinson all of Montgomery; 5 grandchildren, Leslie Blackwell (Jake), Kristy Lackey (Ryan)Paul Nabors, Amber and Jacob Stinson; and three great-grandsons, Peyron Lackey, Coleman and Mason Blackwell. He also has one brother and his spouse David C. Nabors and Jeanette of Huntsville.

Bob's forthright spirit, his generosity toward others, and his genuine love of his family and fellow man will be sincerely missed by everyone who had the pleasure of Knowing him and calling him friend.

Funeral Services will be held at Valhalla Funeral Home in Birmingham, Al on Wednesday, May 13 at  2:00 PM

 A memorial Service will be held at Heritage Baptist Church in Montgomery on Monday, May 18 at Noon.

RIGSBY, BELLE EDNEY, (JVHS Class of 1950) age 76, life-long resident of Jefferson County, died Friday, April 10, 2009. She was a faithfully devoted wife, daughter, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Mrs. Rigsby took great pride in her service as a homemaker. She and her husband, Howard, were long-time members of Philadelphia Baptist Church in Cahaba Heights. Mrs. Rigsby was preceded in death by her husband, Howard; her parents, Fred and Jetta Mae Edney; her brothers, Curt, Lewis, and V.J. Edney; a sister, Ruth Welsh; and a grandson, Chance Walker. Survivors include one brother, Lohren Edney; a son, Randy Rigsby (Gina); two daughters, Debra Walker (Ken) and Ginger Williamson (Mike); grandchildren, Jade Rigsby, Jason Snyder, Stacia Snyder, Cody Young, Stephen Rigsby, and Cheyenne Williamson; and great-grandchildren, Cole Snyder and Sloane Snyder. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, April 13, 2009 at Ridout's Southern Heritage Funeral Home in Pelham. The funeral service will be at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2009 in the funeral home's chapel in Pelham. Pastor Allan Murphy will officiate. Burial will follow in Southern Heritage Cemetery, Pelham. The family suggests that memorial gifts be made to Alzheimer's of Central Alabama, 300 Office Park Drive #225, Birmingham, AL 35223. 205-871-7970.

Elaine Rutledge Loveless
Class of 73

WILLIAMSON, LYNN STUBBLEFIELD, After a short but courageous fight with lung cancer, Lynn Stubblefield Williamson, born July 26, 1955, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2009 surrounded by family. A member of Smokerise Baptist Church, Lynn was a beautiful and charming woman who was full of life. She loved her family and friends and enjoyed spending time at her beach house, lake house and her home. Lynn was a dedicated employee of SBA Communications and will be missed by all of her colleagues and clients. Lynn is survived by her grandmother, Frances Richey; parents, Ray and June Stubblefield; her husband, Mike Williamson; her children, Madison Williamson and Shane Stubblefield (Pamela); granddaughter, Edie Stubblefield; brothers, Greg (Mary), Richey (Ginger) and Tom (Arcel) Stubblefield; and numerous brothers and sisters in law, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, and cousins, who will all miss her vivacious spirit. Lynn was preceded in death by her grandparents, James and Elsie Stubblefield and John W. Richey; and her nephew, Hunter Stubblefield. The family will receive friends on Friday, March 6th, 2009, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 PM at Currie-Jefferson Funeral Home, Hwy 150 in Hoover. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 7th at 11:00 AM in the funeral home chapel. Interment will be in Jefferson Memorial Gardens, South. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace Ministries, 2920 18th Street South Homewood, AL 35209 (in Lynn and Maddison Williamson's names) or the American Institute for Cancer Research, 1759 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20009 to support lung cancer research.

STACY, SHIRLEY "MIMI" WILLIAMS 1936-2009 Mrs. Shirley Williams Stacy, affectionately known at "Mimi", went to be with the Lord Jesus on Wednesday, March 4, 2009, at the home of her family, surrounded by love and peace. Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 7, 2009 at 1:00 PM at Lakeview Baptist Church in Auburn with Brother Al Jackson and Brother Chette Williams officiating. The family will receive visitors at the church one hour prior to the service, at 12:00 noon. The most important part of Mimi's life was her relationship with the Lord, closely followed by her love for her family and her brothers and sisters in Christ and especially the Emmaus community. She was born August 20, 1936 to Mrs. Catherine Williams and the late Daniel B. Williams. She is survived by her mother, her husband of 54 years, Jim (JVHS ’49), her daughter Christi and son-in-law Wayne Hall, and her grandsons Ed and Tom Hall, whom she loved with "all of her heart". She is also survived by her sister, Gaye Reeves (JVHS ’59) (Doyce (JVHS ’59)) and their children, Angela DiBiase (Benjamin), Jaqueline Vaughan, Robert Barnett (Danita) and Jennifer Suleiman (Nasser); her brother, Danny Williams (JVHS ’67) (Knoxye) and their daughter, Lanning; sister-in-law, Frances Orange (Wayne) and their children Jennifer Creamer, Kathy (Bill) Edge, Johnny (Regina) Orange, and Skipper (Yuki) Orange; sister-in-law, Joan Kines (Joe) and her children, Lisa Hindman and Joey Kines (Eloise); and sister-in-law, Peggy Oglesby and her son Stacy McClure; as well as many great-nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank Dr. Edie Graves and Dr. Wes Glisson and their staff for their loving care. They would also like to express appreciation for the wonderful Hospice staff, including Sally, Felisha, Carrie, Nanna, Ann and Katie. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any gifts go to the Lottie Moon Mission Fund, c/o Eric Ellis, Lakeview Baptist Church, 1600 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, AL 36830. It was Mimi's desire, in keeping with the heart of God, that more people would have the opportunity to know Him though His son Jesus. Fredericks Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. www.fredericksfh.com

SPEER, RICHARD "ALAN", age 52, of Bessemer died Sunday, February 8, 2009. He attended Jones Valley High School in Birmingham and worked with restaurant equipment, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical equipment. He was preceded in death by his father, John Freeman Speer. Survivors include Alan's loving wife, Mary Beth Speer; mother, Ernestine "Ernie" Erwin; sons, Matthew "Matt" John Speer and Richard Gregory "Greg" Speer; a daughter, Carly Elizabeth Speer; a sister, Lee Ann Dasher (Bob); and a niece and nephew, Lauren and Billy Dasher. The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 12, 2009 at Ridout's Southern Heritage Funeral Home in Pelham. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 13, 2009 in the funeral home's chapel. Burial will follow in Southern Heritage Cemetery, Pelham.

BELL, LINDA EULER ROLLINS, age 64, of Birmingham, Alabama, went to be with her Lord Jesus on December 24, 2008. She passed away peacefully in her sleep. She had lived at Grace Healthcare of Birmingham since her stroke four years ago. Prior to that she had lived in Bankhead Towers where she was a friend and caregiver to many residents there. She grew up in Powderly and went to Jones Valley School. She was a Southern Baptist before joining the Salvation Army with her second husband. Her last two churches with close affiliations were Fulton Springs and Glen Iris Baptist. She was a tenderhearted mother and friend who was ready to offer assistance for growth to each one. Her sweet disposition endeared her to people wherever she went. Linda was preceded in death by her first husband, Albert A. Rollins, her second husband, Charles Bell, her dad, Fred Euler and her mother, Mildred Riley Euler and her brother Leonard M. Euler. She is survived b y her three sons, Chris Rollins of Woodlawn, Ernest Rollins of the Birmingham Salvation Army and Adam Rollins of North Carolina. Adam and his wife, Amy, blessed Linda with an adorable granddaughter, Abigail Grace, in September. She is also survived by her brother, Rev. Ronald Euler and his wife Jeanine, of Pleasant Grove. Funeral Services will be held at 11:30 am on Monday, December 29, 2008 at Bessemer Brown Service Funeral Home with visitation preceding from 10:00 am until 11:30 am. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery in Ensley. Major Matt Riley and John Key will officiate. Active pallbearers will be Louis Allen, Carlton and Brandon Euler, Gary Euler, Mark Farley and Ed Howard. We are grateful for several cousins who ministered lovingly to Linda in recent years. A special thanks to her lifelong friend, Glenora Farley. Memorials may be made to The Salvation Army in Birmingham. Bessemer Brown Service Funeral Home is honored to serve Linda's family.

Mildred Horton Langston
Jones Valley Class of 1935

LANGSTON, MILDRED HORTON, age 91, of Tarrant, passed away on November 7, 2008. She was preceded in death by one sister, Pauline White. She is survived by: three daughters; Emily Cole of Holtville, AL (JV Class of 55), Sue Bailey(JV Class of 59) of Pinson, AL and Cathy Satterlee (Larry) (JV Class of 59) of Hueytown, AL; seven grandchildren: Teresa Wallace (Michael), Doug Cole, Christy Sellers (Greg), David Cole, Scott Walls (Renea), Randy Walls (Debbie), Kevin Walls (Jamie); nine great grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; one brother, James Horton of Omaha, NE; two sisters; Catherine Hunter of Montgomery, Al and Ruth (Vic) Edwards of Shannon, AL. The family will receive friends at Ridout's Elmwood Chapel on Sunday, November 9, 2008 from 5 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. The funeral service will be held on Monday, November 10, 2008 at 11:00 A.M. at Elmwood Chapel, with burial in Elmwood Cemetery. The family would like to thank Jefferson County Rehab for over 12 years of care. Elmwood Chapel directing 205-251-7227.

Billy Brigman passed away on Monday, November 3, 2008 in Stockbridge, Georgia.  Billy is survivied by his brother George Brigman and his sisters Lena Brigman White Virginia Brigman Colvin and Martha Brigman Spota.  Graveside services will be held in Stockbridge on Thursday, November 6^th.

FORE, EVA PATSY, age 68, died on October 28, 2008. She was born in Steele, Alabama and lived most of her life in Birmingham. She is preceded in death by her father, Morris Fore and her mother, Hazel Ballard Fore. She is survived by her aunt, Jewell Ballard Walker and many cousins, who loved her dearly. As a long time member of Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church, Patsy was a member of the Faith Sunday School Class and enjoyed many hours of sharing her time and talents through organizing meals and volunteering at the Fire House Shelter and delivering meals to church members coming home from the hospital. Upon retiring from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama after 42 years of service, Patsy became an active member and officer in the Trailblazers, an organization of retired former employees. The service will be held on Friday, October 31, 2008 in the chapel at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 with the service at 11:00

EADS, DAVID LETTUS, age 53, of Charlotte, NC (formerly of Birmingham area), passed away Monday, October 6, 2008 in North Carolina where he was living and working as a draftsman for Southern Designs. He was a graduate of Jones Valley High School. Survivors include his father, L.G. Eads, Adamsville; brother, Phillip Wade Eads, Charlotte, NC; and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lois Caddell Eads; brother, Roger Scott Eads; grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Grover Eads and Mr. and Mrs. A.B. Caddell. Chapel service will be Friday 2:00 PM with burial in Winfield City Cemetery. Visitation will begin Friday at 12 Noon at the funeral home. Mike Cox officiating. Miles Funeral Home of Winfield directing.

Pilgreen, Virginia  Lacy McCombs, 1918-2008 Graveside services for Virginia Lacy Pilgreen, age 90 of Camp Hill, AL will be Thursday, September 25, 2008, 3 p.m. at the Elmwood Cemetery in Birmingham, AL with Bishop Daniel Parker officiating. Mrs. Pilgreen was born January 17, 1918 in Birmingham, AL and passed away September 20, 2008 in Opelika, AL.  Virginia attended Jones Valley High School along with her five children:  Marlene, Diane, Michael (deceased), Stephen and Richard.  Virginia's father, Doctor McCombs ran a drug store in powderly for many years.

 Fredericks Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. www.fredericksfh.com

PEPPER, BRYAN SIMPSON, age 79, Coach Pepper, of Birmingham, died August 7, 2008, after a brief illness. He had a long life in education as a teacher, coach, administrator and principal that spanned 58 years. His second career "as the public address voice" at Legion Field and Bryant-Denny Stadium spanned the last 44 years. The Ensley High School graduate lettered in four sports, baseball, basketball, football and track, in high school. He attended Livingston University (now West Alabama) where he received his Bachelor's Degree in Education. He also lettered in football, baseball and basketball. After graduation, he coached at B.B. Comer High School in Sylacauga, AL, until he was drafted into the United States Army. Upon completing his military service to his country, he returned home to coach at Hueytown, McAdory and Ensley high schools. During this span he also earned his Masters and AA degrees from Peabody College in Nashville, Tenn. Coach Pepper left the coaching profession in 1964 to become principal at Jones Valley Elementary School --where he remained for the next 14 years. In 1973, he became principal at Jones Valley High School where he remained until his retirement in 1986. For the past 23 years, he has worked as a teacher and athletic director at Central Park Christian School. In 1964, Coach Pepper, at the urging of his longtime friend, then athletic director Bill Harris, was hired by the Birmingham City Schools to become the public address announcer at all sporting events. In 1970, he became the voice for the University of Alabama football at Legion Field and Bryant-Denny Stadium. He continued that role until 1997. His announcing career also included University of Alabama basketball home basketball games for 14 years. He also announced Samford University games, professional football games, high school football and basketball games, state tournaments, track meets and the Alabama Lions East-West Baseball Classic, among other special events - including the annual Magic City Classic between Alabama A&M and Alabama State at Legion Field. An avid St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan, Coach Pepper became the public address announcer at Rickwood Field for the Birmingham Barons for five years. Always the ultimate impartial professional, his voice is considered by many to be the most recognizable in Alabama. Coach Pepper received many honors during his public announcing career. His most prized honor came in 1997 when the public address booth at Legion was named in his honor and had a bronze plaque erected that still proclaims the "Simpson Pepper" public address booth. Also in 1997, the Birmingham City Board of Education honored him for his long, faithful service. In 2002, he was presented a Distinguished Service plaque by the Monday Morning Quarterback Club. His love for East-West Baseball spanned the last 64 years. He played in the first classic in 1944 and announced most since 1970. In 2003, Coach Pepper was inducted into the Alabama Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame as a Distinguished Service selection for his contributions to the East-West Classic. Coach Pepper was preceded in death by his parents, Dewey Bryan and Mary Kate Simpson Pepper. He is survived by cousins Charlotte Tate Jackson of Birmingham, Judy Harris Cooper (Harry) of Daphne, AL, Martha Hodnett Ward (Bruce) of Conyers, GA, Sam E. Simpson (Ginger) of Lake Alfred, FL, Fred Morgan Simpson (Kitty) of Montgomery, AL, Hugh Lee Simpson (Anne) of Banner Elk, N.C., Mary Eleanor Pepper Jones (Buddy) of Millerville, AL, L. T. Pepper (Marie) of Titus, AL, James L. Saxon and Doris Saxon of Columbia, MO. Services will be held at Central Park Baptist Church, 1900 43rd Street West, in Birmingham, AL on August 10, 2008, at 2:30 p.m. Visitation will be from 1:00 to 2:15 in the church sanctuary prior to the service. Burial will be at Elmwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Coach Bryan Simpson Pepper Scholarship Fund f or deserving students at Central Park Christian School.

Turley, Wallace (Turk) Class of 1949, passed away the early morning of Monday, August 11, 2008.  He died unexpectedly after a very brief heart-related illness.  

He was preceded in death by his sons,  Guy Turley and Brian Turley, his parents, H.W. and Lena Mae Turley and his brother, John W. (Bill) Turley.

Turk is survived by his beloved wife of many years, Nancy, a daughter, Lisa Mareno, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, his sister, Hazel Turley Ingalls and several nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Funeral service will be held Friday, August 29, 2008, 11:00 A.M., at Mariposa Funeral Home, Mariposa, CA.  

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to: The Air Warrior Courage Foundation, in Memory of "Turk" Turley, (to help pay medical bills of Veterans' not covered by their insurance).    P. O. Box 1553, Front Royal, VA  22630,  OR  http://www.airwarriorcourage.org/  

Michael Dainard, passed away Sunday, July 13, 2008 in New York City.  Michael is in the Jones Valley High School Hall of Fame for his many achievements and talent as a prolific writer, author and marketing/advertising/consulting/teaching entrepreneur.  To read his biography in the Jones Valley Hall of Fame (www.jonesvalley.net )

introduces one to a man of great intellect and ability in his many fields of endeavor.   For a deeper view of his accomplishments go to www.Google.com and search on Michael Dainard.  To read on his two websites, www.michaeldainard.com and www.mdainc.us about his "summer office" for daily writing excursions aboard the SS Carinthia while circling Lake Worthersee in Austria, gives one a glimpse into the soul of an amazing man in tune with nature and his own inner being...and transports the reader to the lapping waves of his peaceful, creative voyages.  Beloved Austrian wife, Baerbel, will honor Michael's request to have his ashes spread on this beautiful lake he so loved and enjoyed.....as well as among the beauty of New York City's Gramercy Park near his home in Gramercy Park South, where  when in the states he often sat and wrote with pet park squirrel "Nutsy" perching on his computer.

Michael lived the life of his dreams while motorcycling through the Alps of Austria and Italy...but his great love was his family.  He is survived by his wife Baerbel; his sons Stefan Michael of New York City and Vienna and Michael Scott Dainard; his daughter Susan Margaret Dainard;  grandchildren Brandy Thompson, Adam Montgomery, Michael Cole and Melissa Dainard; great-grandchildren Aliya Crutcher, Lacey Thompson and Faith Montgomery all of the Birmingham area.  Michael also leaves a sister, Denise Pounder of London, Ontario, Canada.  He was preceded in death by Michael was preceeded in death by his son Michael Steven; his mother Mrs. Margaret Logsdon of Birmingham, a native of London, England,  and beloved grandmother "Nana".

Michael's daughter, Susan, speaks for the family in saying "He was very loved by all who met him.  He was a unique and special man; truly one of a kind.  His accomplishments were too numerous to count and yet he remained humble.  He constantly  would strive to "build a better mouse trap".  Even during his lenghy illness he continued to work on documentaries and mentored former students via email.  It seems everyone who knew him knew something different or had another piece of the puzzle that made up this wonderful man.  There is a hole in our hearts that nothing could ever begin to fill, but as time passes it will be filled with memories.   He will be greatly missed!"

A memorial service will be held in September at The Player's Club in New York City.

KEASLER, JOAN EVELYN, age 56, of Birmingham, passed away Saturday, July 12, 2008 at a local hospital. She attended Blessed Sacrament Church and graduated from Jones Valley High School. She is survived by her daughter, Theresa Shores (John); grandchildren, Travis and Hunter Shores, all of Adamsville; her mother and father, Mina and Chuck Keasler of Midfield; sister, Sylvia Keasler Morton of Birmingham; brothers, Hans Keasler of Midfield and Billy Keasler of Birmingham; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins from Alabama and Germany. A memorial mass will be held at 11:00 a..m., Saturday, July 19th at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1460 Pearson Ave. SW. Birmingham, AL. Celebrant will be Father Jose Manjaly. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in her memory to Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church.

Mary Lee Allen Costa
Class of 56

Alfred “Sut” Rogers
Class of 51

Geraldine Wammack
Class of 50

KING, BETTY DEAN, age 67, of Gardendale, passed away on July 9, 2008. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. Betty was a very special lady. Our loss is Heaven's gain. Special thanks to Myra Myrick and other friends and family that helped during her illness. She loved you all. She was preceded in death by her son, Ronnie Sumners. She is survived by her husband, Al King of Gardendale; son, Mike (Leilo) Sumners of Gardendale; daughter, Kanna (Keith) Buntyn of Pinson; three grandchildren, Michael Brenton Sumners, Melissa Sumners and James Buntyn; brother, Bob Sizemore; sister-in-law, Juanita Sizemore; daughter-in-law, Robbie Sumners; nieces, Phedra Sizemore and Amber Butler; great nephews, Brandon Butler, Gibb Butler and a host of other relatives and friends. Funeral Services will be held at Valhalla Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, July 12, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. with burial in Valhalla cemetery. Visitation will be Friday from 5 until 8 p.m.

DOMASCHK, ELLEN SIZEMORE, age 74, a native of Jefferson County, AL and resident of Siverhill since 1993, died Friday, June 20, 2008. Mrs. Domaschk retired from Nationwide Insurance in Birmingham, AL and was a member of the First Christian Church in Robertsdale, AL. She is survived by her husband, Carl "Pete" Domaschk of Silverhill, AL; daughters, Celia Williams of Silverhill, AL and Donna (Louis) Zook of Sylacauga, AL; son, Brady (Cindy) Leith of Fairhope, AL; brother, Donald B. (Gayle) Sizemore of McCalla, AL; sister, Evelyn (Ed) Leslie of Remlap, AL; and seven grandchildren. Graveside funeral services and burial will be held Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 2 p.m. at Highland Memorial Gardens, Bessemer, AL. A visitation will be held Monday, June 23, 2008 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Mack Funeral Home. Funeral arrangements are by Mack Funeral Home & Crematory, Hwy. 59, Robertsdale, AL.
Published in The Birmingham News on 6/23/2008.

Emily Hicks Jones, age 79, of Bessemer, Alabama, went to be with the Lord on May 19, 2008 after a brief illness. She was born in Birmingham, Alabama where she attended Jones Valley High School. She was a full-time mom and homemaker. She also worked at First National Bank of Birmingham, West End Branch, and Pizitz department store downtown. Before retirement, she was most recently employed part-time at the Birmingham News public affairs department. She served in support of the Miss Alabama pageant and also served as a traveling companion to Miss Alabama for several years beginning in 1982. She was a member of the Baptist Church at McAdory where she served as Sunday school teacher for the "Faith" class. She made many friends in her 79 years. She was a dedicated Christian mother and grandmother, was loving and supportive of family and friends, and will be missed by all. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Lloyd Jones; three sons, David Alan Jones (Robin) of Gulf Shores, Darryl Lloyd Jones and Timothy Dale Jones of Pelham; grandchildren, Erin Peebles, DJ Jones, Prentice, Kayla, and Kendyl Jones; and sister, Sara Bruce of Florence, AL. She was preceded in death by her father, James Holland Hicks; mother, Ruby Burns Hicks; sister, Elsie Hicks McCary; and brother, Joe Terrell Hicks. Visitation will be held from 5:30 to 8:00 PM on Tuesday, May 20, 2008 at Peoples Chapel Funeral Home, Brooklane Road, Hueytown, AL. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, May 21, 2008 at the Baptist Church at McAdory with burial in Elmwood Cemetery. Rev. Bill McCall and Bro. Jim McCain officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Building fund of the Baptist Church at McAdory or the Alabama Baptist Children's home.

GARDINER Bobby Lee Gardiner, 63, passed away with his family by his side on May 17, 2008. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. His loving and unselfish qualities will forever be missed but never forgotten. He loved fishing, Alabama Crimson Tide football, the Jaguars and was an avid Nascar fan, but most of all he loved his family and friends. Survivors include his loving wife and best friend of 25 years Barbara C. Gardiner, who he loved more than life. He was the husband of her dreams, her soul mate and the love of her life, his strength, love and faith will live on thru her, just as he would have wanted. His mother in law, Louis Smallwood, he loved like a mother and she loved him as her own son. His daughter, Robyn Gardiner (Shawn) Step children, Michelle Gundal, Kristina Seybold, Cindy and Melvin Geiger, Jack and Merry Dixon and Latrell and Delza Smith III. He was a very special man and a wonderful daddy to us all, word cannot describe how much he will be missed, but never forgotten. The key to his heart was held by his grandchildren, who he loved and raised as his own. They brought him more joy and happiness than he could wish for, they were truly his living angels. His angels on earth are: Jessica and Alex Granucci and his only Great grandbaby Gianni Granucci, Wesley and Cassidy Geiger, Brett Richards and Madison Mcclellan and Delza Smith IV. They now have Angel Pappa watching over them in Heaven. Bob is also survived by 3 brothers, Don Gardiner (Yuanita), Johnny Gardiner (Vicky) and Billy Jo Gardiner and a very special Aunt Dot. There are so many family and friends to mention that helped and prayed for our family during this time and though you may not be mentioned, we love and thank you all. Bob recently accepted the gift of Christ and was baptized into the Catholic faith. We find comfort knowing he is in heaven with God and will find the strength to move on with our memories. We were all fortunate to have Bob in our life and we will never forget the lessons he taught us and the good times we had as a family, he will live on in our hearts forever. A Catholic memorial service will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, at 11:00 AM at FRASER FUNERAL HOME, 8168 Normandy Boulevard, (904-781-4314) with Father Joseph Meehan officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until service time at the funeral home. Please Sign the Guestbook @ Jacksonville.com 

McNIEL, MRS. PATRICIA NAISH "PAT", age 63, of Birmingham, passed away on Friday, April 11, 2008. She was a member of Springdale Baptist Church where her husband is the pastor. A graduate of Samford University and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, Mrs. McNiel served with her husband as a missionary to Costa Rica and Columbia, South America, as a homemaker who cared for and raised three children and served as a teacher for more than thirty years. Most recently, she taught second grade at Parkway Christian Academy. She was also a leader and servant in the churches where her husband pastored, working in Vacation Bible School and singing in the choir. She is survived by her husband, Rev. Winston W. McNiel; sons, Bart (Stacey) McNiel and Andy (Dana) McNiel; daughter, Sandra McNiel; grandchildren, Bailea, Allyssa and Mattie McNiel; mother, Louise Naish; brother, Wayne Naish; and sister, Sue Duke; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. Funeral service will be at Springdale Baptist Church on Tuesday, April 15th at 2:00 pm with burial in Oakwood Memorial Gardens. Dr. Gary Fisher officiating. Visitation will be on Monday, April 14th at Gardendale Chapel Funeral Home 6 until 8 pm. The family suggests that memorials be made to Springdale Baptist Church. Ridout's Gardendale Chapel is honored to serve the McNiel Family.

Donald E. Holcombe, 77, of Wright, FL, passed away on March 26, 2008.  He is survived by his wife, Nancy Holcombe, also of Wright, FL; daughter, Lt Col Donna R. Holcombe, San Antonio, TX; step-children, Lori Bona, her husband Steve, their children, Dominic and Addie, Delano, MN; Michaela Quello, her husband Tim, their children, Kelly, Hannah, and Derek Schmeising, Plymouth, MN; Scott Williams and his wife Gwen, their children, Reid and Connor, Richfield, MN; Kevin Williams, his son Josh and his wife Liz and their son Cody; Parker, Caitlyn, and Mackenzie, Norwood/Young America, MN; Matthew Williams, his wife Martha, their children Jesse and Jonathan of Sauk Centre, MN; and several neices, nephews, and cousins.  He is preceded in death by his first wife of 42 years, Bette J. Holcombe; his father, Aubrey Holcombe; his mother, Mildred B. Brown; and his brother, Robert J. (Jack) Holcombe.

Don was born on July 16, 1930, in Birmingham, AL; he graduated from Jones Valley High School in 1949.  He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1952 and became a jet engine mechanic.  While in the Air Force, he served at several installations worldwide. He retired after 20 years of service at the rank of Technical Sergeant. Following his last assignment at Eglin AFB, he remained a resident of Mary Esther and continued as an active member of Wright Baptist Church, where he was a deacon, children's Sunday School teacher and superintendent, and choir member. Papa Don and Nancy later joined Trinity United Methodist Church, where he was an active member of the choir and worked with the church's ministry teaching English as a second language.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, March 30, 2008, at 2:00pm, at Trinity United Methodist Church (UMC), Ft. Walton Bch., FL with visitation one hour prior.  A formal visitation will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2008, from 6:00-8:00pm, at McLaughlin Funeral Home in Ft. Walton Bch.  Donations or memorials in lieu of flowers may be made payable to Trinity UMC for the Guynelle Stewart Organ Scholarship Fund, 403 Racetrack Road, Ft Walton Bch, FL 32548.

Rodney Thomas
Class of 55

RODGERS, THOMAS RODNEY, (JVHS Class of 55) age 71, of Gardendale, AL, passed away Friday, March 7, 2008. He was retired from Yellow Transportation and a member of Gardendale's First Baptist Church, where he loved singing in the choir. He attended Jones Valley High School and served four years in the Navy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ostelle and William Rodgers; sisters, Janice Deerman, Beverly Pratt and Eloise Deward; brothers, Joe Strother, Billy Rodgers and Bobby Rodgers. He is survived by his wife, Nita Rodgers; sons, Dale (Leigh Ann) Rodgers, Rusty (Rebecca) Ward and Rick (Sandra) Ward; daughters, Vonnie (Butch) Fancher, Cathy (Robin) Lawley; and the loves of his life, grandchildren, Justin and Jamie Rodgers, Jillian Fancher, Andrea, James and Rachel Ward, Shawn and Kim Davis and Sara Catherine and Madeline Ward; sisters, Nell Fry and Ellen (Larry) Tackett of Sacramento, CA; and brother, Jack Rodgers of Hope Valley, RI. Funeral Services will be held Monday, March 10, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at Gardendale's First Baptist Church, with burial in Oakland Cemetery. Rev. Bruce Hill and Rev. Leon Zalenski officiating. Visitation will be held Sunday, March 9, 2008 from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Ridout's Gardendale Funeral Home, 2029 Decatur Hwy., Gardendale, AL. In lieu of flowers, we request donations be made to John Croyle Big Oak Ranch or Gardendale's First Baptist Church.

Robert “Jack” Holcombe
Class of 47 

Robert “Jack” Holcombe, age 79, of Midfield passed away on March 9, 2008.  He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church Pleasant Grove, AL. 

 He was preceded in death by his parents Mildred Blackburn and Aubrey Holcombe.  He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Juanita King Holcombe; daughter Pamela Thompson (Raymond); son Mitch Holcombe (Renee); five grandchildren Amanda Reagan (Alan), Patrick Thompson (Mary Jo), Sam Thompson, Mitch Holcombe Jr., Heath Holcombe; and three great-grandchildren Georgia and Frank Thompson, and Jackson Reagan.

 He retired after thirty years as Revenue Examiner at the Jefferson County Commission, was a graduate of Jones Valley High School class of ‘47, and was a U.S. Navy veteran serving during the Korean Conflict stationed in Norfolk, VA.

 Jack lived in West End where he was active as an officer and coach in the Powderly Little League influencing the lives of many young boys.  He was an avid softball player playing for teams such as Frisco Railroad, Central Park Baptist Church, and First Baptist Midfield.  A former member of South Park Baptist Church then First Baptist Church Midfield where he served for many years as a Deacon, Sunday School Director, R.A. Leader, Choir Member and was a dedicated servant of the Lord in many other ways.

 Funeral Services will be held Tuesday March 11^th at 11am at Brown‘s Service Funeral Home West Chapel at Hueytown.  Visitation will be at 10am prior to the funeral. Memorials may be made to Amedisys Hospice or Bethel Baptist Church building fund

STANLEY, RICHARD TERRY, 60 of Alabaster, beloved Husband, Daddy, Grandy, Brother, Father-in-law, Uncle and Friend, passed away on Friday March 14, 2008. Terry served in the Army Reserves and retired from BellSouth with 34 years of service. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard T. and Mary Jo Couch Stanley. Terry is survived by his wife of 42 years, Pat Squires Stanley; daughters, Tara Stanley (Craig) Broome, and Amanda Stanley (Tony) Zagar; son, Russ Squires Stanley; grandsons, Alex, Sawyer and Ryan Broome; sister, Carol Stanley McGiboney (Gary Adams); niece, Marla Dunaway; nephew, Brad (Lauren) McGiboney; and his loyal dog, Barkey. The family will receive friends on Sunday, March 16, 2008 from 1:30 PM until 2:30 PM at Southern Heritage Funeral Home. The graveside service will be held at 3 PM on Sunday, March 16, 2008 at Jefferson Memorial Gardens - South in Hoover. Rev. Reid Crotty will be officiating.

VANDIVER, MR. P.A., JR., a life-long resident of Birmingham until 2005, passed away on Saturday, February 23, 2008, in Brewton, Alabama, at the age of 87. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Sara and Curtis Ray Parker of East Brewton, Alabama; a brother, W.A. Vandiver of Waverly, Tennessee; and three nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Claudia Faulkner Vandiver; and a granddaughter, Maria Kay Parker. He was a teacher in Jefferson County and Birmingham City School Systems for 33 years and a charter member of Midfield Baptist Church in Birmingham until his move to Brewton in 2005. Visitation will be held at Elmwood Chapel Thursday morning, February 28, 2008 at 9:00 a.m., with funeral to follow at 10:00 a.m. Interment will be at 3:00 p.m. in the old Vanderford family cemetery at Lebanon Camp Ground in Spring Garden, Alabama. Ridout's Elmwood Chapel directing.
Published in The Birmingham News from 2/26/2008 - 2/28/2008.

 Anne Ferguson Hardy, 90 Former Birmingham, AL resident Anne Ferguson Hardy, 90, went home to be with her Savior and Lord Jesus Christ February 18, 2008, at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Jim Farrow in Carmel Valley, CA.
 
A time of visitation with the family will be held at Shades Crest Baptist Church in Birmingham, AL on February 23, 2008 from 12:00pm until 2:00pm, followed by a memorial service conducted by Dr. Dennis Foust at 2:00pm and a brief graveside service at Currie Jefferson Memorial Gardens. Anne was a charter member of Shades Crest, where she taught Sunday School for many years.
 
Anne was born May 03, 1917 in Collirene, AL to Claudius and Pearl Rives. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Florence State Teachers College in 1938 and from the University of Alabama in 1957 with a Masters degree in English.
 
Anne married James H. Ferguson of Jasper, AL in 1946. She taught typing, shorthand and English for over 20 years at Jones Valley High School. Several years after Jimmy’s death in 1963, she married a childhood friend, Ralph Hardy, and moved to Selma, AL, where she lived until his death in 1985. She then moved back to Birmingham to live with her greatly loved sister, Lois Rives Johnson. In 2003 they moved to Carmel Valley, CA to live with Dr. and Mrs. Jim Farrow, who loved and cared for Anne as if she was their own mother.
 
Anne is survived by her sister, Lois Rives Johnson, her brother, Claudius Greene Rives V, her son and daughter-in-law, Dr. and Mrs. James H. Ferguson, her grandson, his wife, and two great granddaughters, Kobi and Shani Ferguson and their daughters Illit and Lahav, and her granddaughter Amy Lynn Ferguson,

Instead of sending flowers, the family requests that appreciation of Anne’s life and love for God be expressed through contributions to Yeshua Israel Ministries to help bring the gospel of Christ to the nation of Israel. Donations can be made online at www.yeshuaisrael.com, by calling 800-856-7060, or my mailing a contribution to YeshuaIsrael Ministries, P.O. Box 535788, Grand Prairie, TX 75053.
 
Anne's life was a testimony to the reality of the last words she spoke to her son four days before she went home to be with her Lord - "God is good!"

Brother of Sue Colburn Brooks (64) and Don Colburn (67)

COLBURN, JOHNNY LOWELL, age 56, of Hueytown, died February 3, 2008. He was a member of St. Aloysius Catholic Church. He served in the U.S. Army during the Veitnam Era. Mr. Colburn was a partner in Colburn Construction Inc. as well as an avid golfer. Survivors include wife, Kathy Colburn; daughters, Vanessa (Jeromy) Dailey and Kristi Leigh (Kevin) Scoggins; granddaughter, Kailyn Dailey; sister, Donna Sue (Cecil) Brooks; brother, Don (Deborah) Colburn. A Mass will be held Wednesday, February 6, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, with burial in Highland Memorial Gardens. Father Patrick Cullen officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday from 5 - 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Peoples Chapel Funeral Home directing. 

Charles T. "Hank" Snow
Class of 1945