| BRUNSON,
Mrs.
Mattie - Funeral of Principal, who died yesterday, awaits Husband's arrival. Mrs. Mattie Brunson, principal of the Shore Acres school, a position which she filled in a most acceptable manner for the greater part of a year, died yesterday morning at her home on North Florida Ave. after a week's illness. Blood poisoning is said to have been the cause of her death. Funeral arrangements are being held in aboyance pending the arrival of her husband W.P.Brunson this afternoon, he had been in Alabama. The body is laying in state at the Futch Funeral Home. Mr. Brunson called to say he will take the body to Appalachicola, former home of the deceased, for burial. >Mrs. Brunson is survived by one daughter. Mrs. Brunson was a superintendent of the grammer school at Lake Wire for 2 years prior to her connection with the Shore Acres school. She was loved by all. - Lakeland Star -Telegram,Tues., April 13, 1926, pg.B-5 |
| RISK,
SEENY - 91 - >B: Dec. 22, 1914 in Lakeland,Fl. - D: April 24,
2006 , at home Mrs. Seeny Elizabeth Risk, Of Medulla Elementary School, Polk Co. Mrs. Seeny Risk was a lifelong resident. She was a teacher at Medulla Elementary School for 23 years, she also owned Risk Roses with her husband Joseph Risk. She was a member S.Lakeland Church of God. >Seeny was preceded in death by her first husband, Harris Hart and her second husband, Joseph Risk. >She is survived by; 1 daughter ; 3 sisters; 1 grandchild and 6 great grandchildren. Visitation was Thursday at Epic Church,formerly S.Lakeland Church of God. Burial in Oak Hill Burial Park. Lanier Funeral Home. - Lakeland Ledger, Wed. April 26, 2006, pg.B-4 ------------------------------------------- NOTE: -Harris HART and Seeny Elizabeth FIELDS- married Jan. 4, 1935 in Polk Co.- Harris HART - b; Jan. 20, 1886 -d; Jan.1, 1947, buried in Fitzgerald Cemetery-Polk Co., Fl. Joseph RISK - buried, Mar. 3, 1999 , Oak Hill Burial Park, Polk Co.,Fl. |
| SEGER,
ELIZABETH IRENE PREVATT - 58 - BARTOW - Mrs. Elizabeth Irene Prevatt Seger died Wed. Dec.14, 2005 at home. Born in McIntosh on Oct. 30, 1947, she was a longtime resident of Bartow. She was a secretary for the Polk County School Board for 22 years. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Lake Garfield. > Elizabeth is survived by her husband Tommy, daughter, Tracey; sons, Eddie and Tony; sisters, Jean and Connie; brothers; Walter and Cecil ; 8 grandchildren. >Visitation at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home, Bartow. Services at First Baptist Church of Lake Garfield. - Lakeland Ledger, Friday, Dec. 16, 2005 pg. B-4 |
| SMITH,
Foy
BRIGGS - 100 - Retired School Teacher >born; Oct. 24, 1910 in Mars Hill, N.C. > died; March 31, 2011 in Lake Alfred, Polk Co.,Fla. Foy died peacefully of natural causes with her caregiver, Kathy Durrance and helpers at her side. She recieved her bachler degree in N.C. and taught school for 6 years, before moving to Lake Alfred in 1948 with her husband and daughter. A member of First Baptist Church of Lake Alfred where she played piano and organ. Foy taught 2nd. and 3rd. grade in Lake Alfred until she retired in 1969. >Foy's 100 birthday was celebrated in Oct. of 2010, she was recognized by the city of Lake Alfred Commissioners, Bartow Co.,Commishioners, Lake Alford Baptist Church, all living presidents of the U.S.A. and Govenor Crist and family and friends. > Foy was preceded in death by; her husband Conoley in 1996; daughter, Margaret, 2 sisters, Nora B.Campbell of S.C. and Nell B. Willson of N.C., 2 brothers; Carmel Briggs og N.C. and Henry Briggs of Indiana.> Survivors include; Nephews and Nieces, Roy B. and James W. Campbell > Visitation; was April 8, 2011 at First Baptist Church of Lake Alfred. > Lakeland Ledger, Wednesday, April 6, 2011 |
| WASHINGTON,
Gloria DUNN - 66 - Polk County School Board Lakeland - Gloria was she passed away, Wednesday, November 24, 2010. Gloria was an educator for over 35 years in the Polk County school system, she was a member of the St. Mark United Methodist Church in Lakeland, Fl. She was the daughter of the late Percey Dunn and the late Eleanor Dunn. >Gloria is survived by; her husband, Leroy Washington; 3 daughters, Cheryl Ford, Candacy Washington, and Daphne Fudge; 2 sisters, Eleanor Smith, and Evelyn Johnson; one brother PJ Dunn; 4 grandchildren. Arrangements handled by Gause Funeral Home, Bartow, Polk Co.,Fl. Funeral services were held at the church on Lake Mortan Drive,Lakeland, Fl. Sat. Dec. 3, 2010. Interment was in Oak Hill Burial Park on Bartow Rd. sounth. |
| KENNON,
Suzanna Lipscomb - 87 - School Teacher - Suzanna passed away Monday, November 29, 2010 in Tallahassee, Fl., She was born June 17, 1923 in Memphis, Tenn., Suzanna was a resident of Bartow since 1947. She was a graduate of University of Tenn. in Knoxville with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics. Suzanna taught Home Economice for Bartow High School and Traviss Vo-Tech for many years. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Bartow and the Bartow Lioness Club and the Engineers Wives. > Mrs. Kennon was preceded in death by her husband; James C. Kennon. >Survived by; daughter, Carol Anne and husband Lex Thompson; 2 grandchildren, Jamey and wife Heidi Thompson and Jenna and husband Thomas Larson, 2 great grandchildren. >Memorial service, Friday, Dec. 3, 2010 at the church. |
|
BARTOW
-
James Thomas "JT" Hill, Sr. was born July 31, 1931 in Kissimmee
Florida, to the late Rev. John Franklin Hill and Ella Bertha Robinson
Hill. He passed away from heart failure on June 2, 2012. JT grew up in
Lakeland, Florida where he attended Washington Park Jr. High School. He
then moved to Belle Glade, Florida and graduated from Everglades
Vocational High School. James furthered his education at Florida
A&M University, Tallahassee, where he lettered in football
and
golf. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary
Education in 1957. JT earned his Master's degree in Education from Indiana University, Bloomington. He
also served in the
United States Army during the Korean Conflict.
James was a lifetime member of
Florida A & M University National Alumni Association and member
of
the Polk County Chapter, Lifetime member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity,
and City of Bartow Citizen Advisory Committee Board Member. He was a
dedicated member of St. James AME Church, having served as a trustee,
class leader and choir member. James was employed by the Polk County
School Board where he taught
at Bridges Avenue Elementary, and Lena
Vista Elementary School Auburndale, where he received Teacher of
the
Year Award and later served as an attendance assistant until he
retired. James was the first and only "Mr. FAMU" alumni, a prestigious
honor awarded to him by Florida A&M National Alumni
Association. He
also was the recipient of the Florida A&M Distinguished Alumni
Award. JT received every honor that the FAMU Polk County Alumni Chapter
presented. >James is survived by devoted and dedicated sons James T.
Hill,
Jr. and Harry Williams (Carolyn)
of Bartow, FL, daughter
Cynthia Hill of AZ,
wife Catherine Hill of Bartow, FL, sister Cleopatra Jackson (Edward) of
Boynton Beach, FL, adopted brother, James Daniel Brown of Acworth, GA,
sisters-in-law Annie Pearl Hill, of Belle Glade, FL, Mary Ruth Hill of
Lakeland FL, Lureathea Walker of Sebring, Mary Rogers (Archie), and
Garnell D. Carter of Bartow, FL, brothers-in-law Willie Carter of
Bartow FL, Auban Curtis Carter (Adeline) of Lakeland FL, and a host of
grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. In
lieu of flowers
donations may be made to the Florida A&M alumni Association
Polk
County Chapter in Mr. JT Hill's name. Contact Mrs. Doris Hicks . Visitation was held on
Friday June 8, 2012, and Funeral services Saturday June 9, 2012 at St
James AME Church, Bartow.
|
|
> BORSCH,
MARY
HELEN (GLADMAN) - 86 - Teacher
LAKELAND - Mary Helen (Gladman) Borsch passed away peacefully on August 10, 2012 in Lakeland, FL, after suffering a massive stroke. She was the daughter of Helen Miriam Hallam Gladman and the granddaughter of Lakeland real estate developer W.F. Hallam on November 25, 1925 at the Lakeland Highlands Clubhouse. She attended Child's Garden of Learning, Lakeland High School and Florida Southern College. She graduated as Valedictorian from both high school and Florida Southern. She earned her Masters' degrees at Columbia (NYC). Mary Helen taught school in Lakeland, Lake Gibson and Auburndale, as well as Scottsdale (AZ) and Aruba. She also was the first female principal in the Scottsdale school district. Mary Helen was married to Orba T. 'Butch' Borsch in Aruba from 1953 until his death in 1985. Butch lovingly gave her the nickname of Maria. Maria and Butch enjoyed domestic & foreign travels, especially Italy and France. They often attended local and on & off Broadway (NYC) plays and concerts. They also hosted many parties for their friends, where she often played the piano brilliantly. A few years ago, Maria bought her first horse, a palomino Quarter horse, that earned multiple World halter titles. > Maria is survived by her only child, Mimsi Lovering (TX); granddaughter, Holly Brownlee (Lance) and great-granddaughter, Piper, also from Texas. Visitation was held Friday, August 17, 2012 at Gentry Morrison Funeral Home, Southside Chapel, 1727 Bartow Rd, Lakeland. Funeral services will be Saturday, at the funeral home chapel. Interment
will follow
at Oak Hill Burial Park
where she
will be laid to rest next to her mother with her grandmother and
grandfather. - Lakeland Ledger, Aug. 12, 2012
|
|
>CURRY,
LEONA
W. - 87 - Educator
FORT MEADE - Leona W. Curry passed away from respiratory failure on Wednesday, October 10. 2012 in Lakeland. Mrs. Curry was born on March 25, 1925 in Pennsylvania. She loved and was devoted to her Lord and her family. She enjoyed boating, skiing, and going to the Anna Maria Island and Bradenton beaches. She was a Girl Scout Leader in the 60s and 80s, also serving as service team manager for south Polk county. In the 90s she found much joy in tutoring Math and English at Fort Meade Middle School and then a new fulfillment in the early 2000s volunteering at the Rohr Nursing Home in Bartow. >She is preceded in death by her husband James Curry and son Dan Curry. > Mrs. Curry is survived by a daughter, Theresa Keen (Cecil) of Fort Meade, brother, Jack Whitlow (Laura) of Jacksonville, sister-in-law, Ronita Whitlow of Winter Haven, daughter-in-law, Pam Curry of Bartow, grandchildren: Mark Curry (Holly) of Bartow, Katherine Branch of Lakeland, Karen Harmon (Marc) of Winter Springs, great grandchildren: Nathan Curry, Ashlyn Curry, Gage Albritton, Allen Branch, a special daughter, Julie Keen of Lakeland, a special nephew, Mike Cohen, and many other beloved nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held Monday, October 15, 2012 at the First Baptist Church of Fort Meade, 307 East Broadway in Fort Meade. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Florida Baptist Children's Home, P.O. Box 8190, Lakeland Florida, 33802. - The Ledger, Friday, Oct. 12, 2012 |
| >SHURLING,
MAE E. – 85 - Teacher LAKELAND - Mae E. Shurling, passed away on November 7, 2012 at Grace Manor in Lakeland, due to natural causes. She was born in Detroit, MI, on September 23, 1927 to James and Clara Arye (Guffey) Elder. She was a loving teacher and taught for several years in the Polk School System, and 14 years at Polk School Opportunity Center. >She is survived by one son, James N. Shurling of Plant City, two daughters, Rebecca J. Fager of Naples, and Mary S. Banniza of Winter Haven, two grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. A Memorial Service will be held on Monday Nov. 12, 2012 at Wells Memorial & Event Center. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Burial will be at Springhead Cemetery. Memorials in memory of Mae may be made to Anchor House Ministries, PO Box 625, Auburndale, FL. 33823, or Florida Baptist Children's Home, PO Box 8190, Lakeland, FL. 33802.- Ledger, Nov. 10, 2011, Saturday |
|
> FLETT, ALECK "AL" JAMES - 74 - Polk Co. School Board
LAKELAND - Aleck "Al" James Flett died July 28, 2012 at his home after a battle with lung cancer. He was born November 11,1937 in Granby Center, New York, and after serving in the U.S. Army moved to Lakeland from Oswego, New York in 1978. Mr. Flett retired from the Polk County School Board as a Special Education vocational teacher. He was of the Jewish faith and was a Mason, a Shriner and a member of American Legion Post #4 in Lakeland. > Mr. Flett was preceded in death by his sisters Dorothy Bellows and Priscilla McCann. > He is survived by his loving wife Dani Flett of Lakeland, son Steve Flett (Dianna) of Stafford, Virginia, daughter Jacqueline Evans (Paul) of Lakeland, brother Thomas E. Flett (Pat) of Port St. Lucie, Florida and 6 grandchildren. Memorial services will be held Thursday, 10:30 AM in the chapel of Lakeland Funeral Home followed by inurnment in Lakeland Memorial Gardens. Visitation and repast will follow at his home at 1621 Stephanie Lane, Lakeland. - Ledger, Thursday, Aug. 2,2012 |
|
> HURST,
LINDA
FIELDS – 75 - Retire Polk County School
Teacher
LAKELAND - Linda Fields Hurst went home to be with the Lord on Christmas Day due to a stroke. She was born August 18, 1937 in Tampa, FL but lived her entire life in Lakeland. She was a retired Polk County school teacher serving in various North Lakeland schools. She was a faithful member of Parkview Baptist Church and Alpha Delta Kappa teacher's sorority. >Survivors include her husband, Leslie W. Hurst, Jr and two sons, CDR John Hurst (Debra) of Chesapeake, VA and Bruce Hurst (Kim) of Harrison, AR. Also survived by brothers, Charlie and Butch (Cindy) Harper, and sisters, Annette (Gene) Rogers, Judy (Weldon) Hood, Beverly Fullenkamp, Debbie (Steve) Carlton and Sandy Harper, in addition to five grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Visitation with services beginning at 11am, both at Parkview Baptist Church on Friday, December 28. Burial will be at Socrum Cemetery in Lakeland. > In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Parkview Baptist Church, 509 Parkview Place, Lakeland, FL 33805.- The Ledger, Thursday, Dec. 27, 2012 - See Socrum Obits |
|
> HENRY HARRISON HIGGINBOTHAM – 90
– Land Surveying – Crystal Lake Jr. High School
LAKELAND - Mr. Henry Harrison Higginbotham, Sr., passed away December 30, 2012 in Lakeland, FL, due to natural causes. Henry was born August 22, 1922 in Rupert, West Virginia and was married to Ila Ruth Light of Marie, West Virginia for 56 years. He was the last remaining of seven children. He served aboard the USS Ringgold DD500 in the Pacific during World War II and was a graduate of West Virginia University. He was a resident of Lakeland, FL from 1956 when he came to work with his father and brother's land surveying business. He also worked as a science teacher for 25 years at Crystal Lake Jr. High School until he retired. He then worked another 25 years and retired from Keith and Schnars Engineering in Lakeland, FL. He was a Soapbox Derby Champion in Charleston, West Virginia. He served for 25 years as the Head Scoutmaster of Troop 104 and served as a Deacon and an Elder at First Presbyterian Church, Lakeland, FL. > He was preceded in death by his wife, Ila Ruth Light Higginbotham and his son Henry Harrison Higginbotham, Jr. > He is
survived by his loving companion of 6 years Diane Kegley; son Donald
(Krystal) Higginbotham , daughter, Becky (John) Rodda and daughter in
law Barbara Higginbotham of Lakeland, FL, along with seven
grandchildren Leah Beth Higginbotham, Amy Higginbotham, Andrew
Higginbotham, Kayla Stover, Danae Higginbotham, Jason Rodda and Leslie
Blondell; eight great grandchildren Grace, Ila, Evelyn, Johnny Rodda
and Kate, Ella, Nolan, and Nora Blondell.
Memorial services will be held on January 4th at First Presbyterian Church in Lakeland. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund or the FPC Boy Scout Troop #104 at 175 Hollings-worth Drive Lakeland, FL 33813. – Ledger, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2013 |
| >MARY M.
PRENTICE HARRIS - 85 - Polk Co. School Board LAKE WALES - Mary Prentice Harris died Tuesday, January 9, 2013 at her home from cancer. Mary was born in Port Huron, Michigan January 30, 1927 to Dr. and Mrs. Clarke and Amanda McColl. Mary worked for the School Board of Polk County teaching English at Denison Junior High, Lake Wales Junior High and Frostproof Jr/Sr High. She earned her degree from Hillsdale College in Michigan and her Master's from the University of South Florida. >She is preceded in death by Hugh S. Prentice and K.G. Harris. > Mary is survived by her three children Deborah (Prentice) Becton and husband Ron of Ft. Pierce, Hugh S. Prentice and wife Ingrid of Seattle, WA, Rebecca (Prentice) Phillips and husband Russell of Bradenton, grandchildren Spencer K. Prentice, Brian C. Prentice and Clayton A. Becton and wife Mary Beth; great grandchildren Kaleigh Ann Becton and Easton R. Becton. Her extended family includes four children Karen (Harris) Rowe and husband Ron, Steven Harris and wife Michelle, Martin Harris and wife Holly residing in Michigan and Brian Harris and wife Maureen of Illinois. There are nine grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Mary was proud to be a tribal citizen of the Cherokee Nation, an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Lake Wales, the Daughters of American Revolution (DAR), Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO) and volunteered at the Lake Wales Public Library and the former Lake Wales Art Center. Viewing will be held Saturday January 12, 2013 and a memorial celebration of Mary's life will be held at the First Presbyterian Church Lake Wales. A reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall for friends to gather. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the First Presbyterian Church of Lake Wales, 140 E. Park Ave., Lake Wales, FL. 33853, or Lake Wales Public Library, 290 Cypress Garden Lane, Lake Wales, FL. 33853. - Ledger, Friday, Jan. 11, 2013 |
|
>MARY JEANNE McLEOD - 83 - Teacher - Ledger, July 17, 2008
LAKELAND - Mrs. Mary Jeanne McLeod, passed away Tuesday July 15, 2008 at Savannah Court in Lakeland due to heart failure. She was born June 12, 1925 in Mulberry, Fl to William Jesse Martin & Mary Helen (Byrd) Martin. Mrs. McLeod was a lifelong resident of Polk County. She retired from the Polk County School system after more than 30 years of service, ending her career at the Kathleen Junior High School. She was also a member of the Red Hat Society in Lakeland. >She was preceded in death by her husband, William F. McLeod; and a sister, Sara Ringdahl. > Martin P. McLeod (Christina); >Survivors include a son, daughter, Jeannine McLeod Duncan (Brad); 3 grandchildren, Tiffanie Cannonier, Zacharia Mc-Leod, and Sarah Duncan; 3 great grandchildren, Kaitlynn Smith, Isaiah Smith and Adonyss Cannonier; and numerous other nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be Friday July 18, at the Gentry Morrison Northside Chapel. |
|
> MARY FRANCES SULLIVAN - 85
PUNTA GORDA - Mary Frances Sullivan passed away Friday, February 8, 2013 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in Lakeland of heart & respiratory failure. Born December 27, 1927 in Bradley Junction, FL, Mrs. Sullivan was a resident of Polk County for many years, moving to Punta Gorda in 1968. She graduated from Florida State University in 1948. Mary was a Math and Spanish teacher in the Polk & Charlotte County School systems for over 35 years. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Punta Gorda. > Mrs. Sullivan was preceded in death by her husband, John M. Sullivan, Jr., and son, John M. Sullivan III. > She is survived by two sons: Robert A. Sullivan (Patty) of Winter Park, FL & William E. Sullivan (Angela) of Mulberry, FL; brother: Ken Allen (Bonnie), Bartow; sister-in-law: Sallie Allen, Jacksonville; brother-in-law: Allen Hain (Betty) Bartow; daughter-in-law: Diana Sullivan, Punta Gorda; brother in law: Dr. Jack McDonald of Tallahassee; seven grandchildren: Hunter & Audrey Sullivan, Mulberry; Megan & Casey Sullivan, Winter Park; John & Adam Sullivan, Punta Gorda & Derek Sullivan, Germanton, NC. Family will receive friends Sunday, February 10, 2013 at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home, Bartow. Funeral services will be held Monday, February 11, 2013,at the funeral home. - Ledger, Sat. Feb. 9, 2013 |
|
>RICHARD LORING BOOTH - 62 - U.S. Coast Guard
Officer (retired)
LAKELAND - Richard Loring Booth, of Lakeland, died on June 27, 2013 from heart failure. Richard was born in Detroit, Michigan on January 15, 1951. He moved to Lakeland, Florida in 1963. Richard graduated from Lakeland High School and the University of Florida. He served in the United States Coast Guard for twenty years and retired as a Lieutenant Commander. After retiring from the U.S. Coast Guard, under the Troops to Teachers Program, he taught science at Mulberry Middle School for five years. Currently, Richard was working as an Environmental Specialist for the Tampa Port Authority. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, William and Charlotte Booth. >He is survived by his loving wife of thirty-three years, Marilyn Booth, daughter Emily Booth, son Steven Booth and wife Gwynne, sister Kathy Luther, and brother Robert Booth. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 2, 2013, at Heath Funeral Chapel. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday July 3, 2013, with visitation one hour prior at First United Methodist Church, 72 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland, Florida 33801. – Ledger, Sunday, June 30, 2013 |
|
MULBERRY -- Mrs. Lavada Sweat Hurst of
Mulberry died of heart failure Wednesday (Dec. 1, 2004) at Highlands
Lake Center. She was Born in Madison on April 29, 1914, she came
to Mulberry from Jacksonville in 1945. She was a teacher for
the Polk County School Board. She was a member of Delta Kappa
Gamma. She was a member of Mulberry United Methodist Church where she
was a Sunday school teacher. >Mrs. Hurst was preceded in death by her husband,
Ward H. Hurst Sr.
> She is survived by her son, Ward H. Hurst
Jr., Lakeland; brothers, Leon P. Sweat, Sanderson, Thomas M. Sweat,
Jacksonville; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren. Visitation will be Dec. 2, 2004 (this
evening) at Seigler Funeral Home, State Road 60 E., Mulberry. Graveside services will be Friday at
Willow Oak Cemetery, Mulberry.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made
to Mulberry United Methodist Church. Ledger, December 2, 2004
|
|
>ELDER JOHN ARCHIE HAYES, SR. – 62 -
Retired Educator Polk Co., Fl.
LAKE WALES - John Archie Hayes, Sr., of Lake Wales, Florida passed away on August 23, 2010 at the Florida Hospital South in Orlando, Florida. He was born on September 27, 1947 in Mullins, South Carolina to the late Arthur Hayes and Kathleen P. Hayes. >He is survived by his wife Nadine P. Hayes; two sons: Delton Hayes and John Hayes, Jr; one daughter: Tammi Hayes-Ford(Crawford); and two grandchildren: Drew Thomas and Denise Thomas. John was a retired Polk County Schools elementary teacher and a devoted member of Faith Temple Holiness Church of God in Christ in Lake Wales. Visitation will be held Friday, September 3, 2010 at First Institutional Missionary Baptist Church in Lake Wales. Funeral services will be held
Saturday, September 4, 2010 at First Institutional Missionary Baptist
Church with interment to follow at the Lake Wales Cemetery. Ledger, Sept. 2,
2010 > Memorial in Ledger Aug. 23, 2013 - we love and
miss you – plus family names.
|
|
LAKELAND -
William "Bill" Wall Adams, born August 1, 1940, in Lakeland, Florida,
passed away from heart failure June 21, 2013, in Lakeland.> He was
preceded in death by his parents, William Cecil and Grace Thelma Adams,
and his sister, Mrs. Nancy (Felton) Sumner. > He is survived by his
sisters, Mrs. Mary (Novell) Costine and Mrs. Joanne (Robert) Conibear.
Bill attended Kathleen High
School, where he was the drum major of the Red Devil band, graduating in 1958. He
received his Bachelor of Arts and Masters of Arts in journalism and
public relations from University of Florida. At UF, Bill was a trombone
player for the Marching Gator Band and a member of Delta Sigma Phi
Fraternity. During his
professional career, Bill taught English, journalism, and writing at
Admiral Farragut Academy, St. Petersburg; Santa Fe Community College
and University of Florida, Gainesville. He also served two years as a
contracted educator for the United States Navy. As a talented public
relations representative, he managed the Edward James Hotel, Treasure
Island, Florida; Ritz Hotel, Ocala, Florida; and University Center,
Gainesville, Florida. His talents
as an artist, writer, chef, and interior decorator brought joy to
family and friends throughout his lifetime. He was a member of Holy
Trinity Episcopal Church, Gainesville, Florida, and attended All Saints
Episcopal Church, Lakeland. Bill's
family invites you for a gathering at Lanier Funeral Home Friday from
6-8 pm.The family requests no flowers; however, please consider a
donation in his memory to Good Shepherd Hospice. – Ledger, Wed.
June 26, 2013
|
|
LAKELAND - Raymond
Lee Givens, school principal & artist, died May 16, 2013. He was born in Simsboro, Louisiana on November 8, 1914. He received
degrees from the University of Southwestern Louisiana & the
University of Texas. He was a World War II veteran & served in the
U.S. Army Air Forces 8th Division in the European Theatre. In 1936, he began
his career as an educator. >He moved
to Lakeland in 1956 & worked as a teacher & principal for
22 years. Upon retirement, he devoted his time to his true passion,
watercolor painting. He was an active member of several Lakeland art
groups and United Methodist Temple, Lakeland. >He is
survived by his wife
of 59 years, Marjorie,
and his daughters, Sandra Haueter & Carol Hughes. He is beloved by
his 4 grandchildren and his many nieces & nephews. His colorful
commentary while watching Orlando Magic & Tampa Bay Bucs games will
be missed. In lieu of
flowers, donations can be made to CHERA (Scholarship Fund), 1001
Carpenter's Way, Lakeland, FL 33809. A private service will be held for
the family in Lakeland.
|
|
> CARRIE BELCHER RUIS
HARWELL - 99 - School Teacher
PLANT CITY - Carrie Belcher Ruis Harwell, of Plant City, passed away August 9, 2008 due to complications from old age. Mrs. Harwell retired from teaching after 31 years. She taught in Hillsborough and Polk County. >She is survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great great nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 14, 2008 at Hopewell Funeral Home. The family will receive friends for visitation one hour prior to services at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to Good Shepherd Hospice or the Methodist Children's Home. Hopewell Funeral Home, 6005 S. State Road 39, Plant City, FL 33567 813 737-3128.- Ledger, Aug. 13, 2008 |
|
BARTOW -
Paul E. White, passed away from respiratory failure on Tuesday, June
18, 2013 at home in Bartow. Born March 18, 1939 in Birmingham, AL, he
was the son of the late Murdoc V. and Ruth (Holliday) White.
He graduated from Summerlin Institute in 1957. His great love
for Florida Gator Athletics started with an Education Degree from the
University of Florida, where he played football for four years
and then played professionally for the Buffalo Bills in the N.F.L. Mr.
White was a longtime member of the Bartow First Baptist Church. Paul
worked for many years as an elementary physical education teacher
in Frostproof and Fort Meade. Before his career as a
professional educator, Paul served as the recreation director in Selma,
AL and Plant City. Mr. White was also a member of the Bartow Kiwanis
Club, the Masonic Lodge Tuscan #6 in Bartow, he was an Auxiliary
Police Officer in Bartow, and he volunteered at Bartow
Regional Medical Center, Bartow Police Dept., and the Bartow Greater
Chamber of Commerce. > Mr.
White is survived by a loving family that includes his wife of
54 years, Saralyn Wilson White of Bartow, two
daughters: Lyn Bryan (James) of Bartow, Rae Wiggins (David) of Bartow,
and his son Mark E. White (Angela) of Fort Myers. Paul also leaves
behind his brother Roy V. White of Winter Haven, nine grandchildren,
and several nieces and nephews. Arrangements
are being handled by Whidden-McLean Funeral Home in Bartow where the
family will receive friends Thursday, June 20, 2012 . Funeral service
will follow Friday, June 21, 2013 at the Bartow First Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gideon's
International, P. O. Box 140800, Nashville, TN 37214. – Ledger,
June 20, 2013
|
|
WINTER
HAVEN - Mrs. Evelyn B. Humphrey, passed away quietly in her home
December 4, 2013, of Parkinson's disease. Born in Sykesville, PA, she came
to Winter Haven in 1955. She was a
business education teacher at Winter Haven High School. She was
a member of Beymer Memorial United Methodist Church, P.E.O., a Girl
Scout leader, and leader in Airstream Caravans. >She is
survived by her husband of 72 years, James Humphrey; daughters
Patty Mueller & Peggy Beck; 2 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren. Special
music will be at 10 30 a.m. followed by a memorial service, Saturday,
December 14th, 2013 at Beymer Memorial United Methodist Church, 700 N.
Lake Howard Dr., Winter Haven. Memorials can be made to the Chancel
Choir at Beymer Memorial United Methodist Church. Crisp-Coon Funeral
Home Funeral Home. –
|
|
LAKELAND -
Wilmer Alvord Milton, Jr., July 22, 1940. The
son of the late Wilmer A. Milton, Sr., and Doris P. Milton was born in
Jasper, Florida, He was employed
and retired from Polk County School Board as a Music Teacher,
The family moved to Lakeland, Florida where Wilmer, Jr. was
educated at
Rochelle Elementary, Junior and Senior High Schools, graduating in
1958. "Wil"
then matriculated at Florida A & M University, Tallahassee,
Florida, graduating in 1962, earning a Bachelor of Science Music
Degree. "Wil" was an outstanding trombonist at FAMU, participating in
the famed "Marching 100" and Symphonic Bands. He received two "Bandsman
of the Year" Awards and was trombone Section Leader for two years. He
later played trombone with
the legendary singer, James Brown, after which he organized his
own local groups, playing in the Polk and Hillsborough County areas. In
his early years, Wilmer, Jr. received Jesus the Christ as his Lord and
Savior and was baptized at the Harmony Baptist Church in Lakeland. He
served on the Junior Usher Board as well as Sunday School Secretary. He
later was under "watch care", Church of Life Christian Center,
Lakeland. "Wil" was
where he was respected by administrators and co-workers
alike. Wilmer Alvord Milton, Jr., died peacefully in the Lord,
Friday,
April 12, 2013, 4:30 pm at Consulate Health Care, Lakeland, Florida,
due to cardiac failure. > He is survived by daughter, Katrina Milton
Hunter (Ronnie),
Greenville, S.C., son, Wilmer A. Milton, III (Thalia), Jacksonville,
FL, five grandchildren and one great grandchild, brother, Rev. Charles
H. Milton (Francine), Lakeland, FL, and a host of nephews, relatives
and friends and a very special friend, Gloria Porter. Visitation is
Friday, April 19th, 2013 at Oldham Funeral Chapel. Funeral
Service will be Saturday, 11 am at Greater New Jerusalem Baptist
Church, 1125 N. NY Avenue - Lakeland. Ledger, April 19, 2013
|
|
LAKELAND --
Mrs. Alice Boyd Black of Lakeland died of cancer Monday (April 21,
2003) at Lakeland Regional Medical Center. Born in Galesburg, Ill., on
Dec. 17, 1921, she came to
Lakeland from Stuart in 1957. She was a fifth-grade teacher at Combee Elementary
School in Lakeland. She graduated from Western Illinois
University in Macomb, Ill. She was a member of Grove Park Christian
Church in Lakeland. >Mrs. Black was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Franklin Black.
>She is survived by her daughters, Mary Alice Kelly, Warsaw, Ind., Margo
Jill Foster, Woodstock, Ga., RuthAnne Blach, Colorado Springs, Colo.,
Elaine Jeanette Miller, Rehweiler, Germany; son, Lawrence B. Black,
Lakeland; sisters, Ruth Paton, Galesburg, Ill., Jean Boyd, Fort Pierce,
Rose Gillette, Leavenworth, Kan.; 13 grandchildren; four
great-grandchildren. Visitation will be Thursday at Ott-Laughlin
Funeral Home, 2198 K-Ville Ave., Auburndale. Services will be Friday at the funeral home chapel.- Ledger, April 23, 2003
|
|
LAKELAND --
Mr. Robert James Dru of Lakeland, the manager of the Lakeland Lounge
for more than 30 years, died of renal failure Sunday (Aug. 15, 2004) at
Good Shepherd Hospice. He was born March 29, 1910. Mr. Dru was a
veteran of the Air Force, serving in World War II. He was serving in
the military police when he first came to Lakeland. Stefanie
Dru-Estepp, his granddaughter, enjoyed the stories he would tell about
his time in the military."His passing was a great loss to family and
friends,"she said. "He will truly be missed. "During
the 1950s Mr. Dru served as assistant dean of students at Florida Southern College.
Friend Charles Kells Jr. offered him a job as manager of Lakeland
Lounge, his granddaughter said. He retired from the lounge 33 years
later."My grandpa was very sweet, joyful and always full of happiness.
He made me laugh with every word he said," grandson Christopher Dru
said. > In
addition to grandchildren Stefanie and Christopher, Mr. Dru is survived
by his wife of 61 years, Anne Dru, son, Steve P. Dru,
Lakeland; sister, Francis Richter, Clinton, Mass.; granddaughter,
Stacey D. Owen; and two great-grandchildren. Services
will be held this evening at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Lakeland. In
lieu of flowers donations may be made to Blue Team at Good Shepherd
Hospice, Lakeland and Auburndale. – Ledger, Monday, Aug. 23, 2004
|
|
WINTER
HAVEN- Edith Murrell Schnell, Died May 19, 2014 due to heart
failure. She was born March
5, 1922 in Winter
Haven, Edith served in US Army during WWII in the Euro
Theater. She was a member of Hope Presbyterian Church, a member of the
Eastern Star for over 50 years and a member of the Polk County Security
Union. She was a homemaker, member of the Polk County School board for
42 years, at Denison Middle School. >Surviving are a son; John Murrell Schnell, South Portland, Maine,
daughters; Sally Deming, Winter Haven, Nancy Hevel, Benton Harbour,
Michigan, 4 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. A gathering of
friends will take place,Thursday evening at Crisp-Coon Funeral Home
Chapel. Donations in memory may be made to the SPCA, or the Winter
Haven Humane Society – Ledger, Thursday, May 22, 2014
|
|
WINTER
HAVEN - Garnett Reed Boggs, entered into rest on May 17, 2014, at Good
Shepherd Hospice in Auburndale of heart failure with members of her
loving family by her side. Garnett's influence as an educator exceeded
half a century and imparted upon countless young minds a lifelong
pursuit of knowledge and self discovery. She was the matriarch of three generations who reside
throughout the United States. > She
is survived by her youngest brother, Glenn Reed, of League City, Texas;
three daughters, Carol Coile and Jane Barfield of Winter Haven, and
Linda Salley of Anaheim, CA; devoted daughter-in-law, Mary Pat Boggs of
Winter Haven, and treasured son-in-law, Hammond Salley. She had seven
grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. >She
was preceded in death by her loving husband Professor James Robert
Boggs, her only son, James Oliver (Jim) Boggs, and her brothers Eugene
Reed of Winter Haven and Warren E. Reed of California. Garnett's
life journey began in rural West Virginia on September 7, 1919, where
she grew up and later reared her four children. Garnett earned her
Teaching Certificate from Glenville State Teachers' College in
Glenville, WV, and later her Bachelor's Degree, graduating Magna Cum
Laude. In 1958 the entire family relocated
to Central Florida where she earned her Master's in Education at
the University of Florida. She taught school in Polk County
at Frostproof, Brigham, Wahneta, and First Baptist Elementary Schools
as well as courses in Adult Ongoing Education and provided tutoring
services for individuals within the community. At 92 years of age Garnett
published Fifty Years in the Classroom, a memoir depicting five
decades of her teaching triumphs and travails and Totally Katy, about a
fourth grade girl and her changing perceptions of the world around her.
A family memorial service will be held in June at Silver Hill
Cemetery in Frostproof –
|
|
BARTOW -- After teaching in the
Polk County School District for 33 years, Mrs. Carrie B. Roberts spent
her retirement mentoring and tutoring young people in several
capacities.The retired elementary school teacher died of heart failure
Tuesday (Aug. 27, 2002) at Bartow Memorial Hospital. "Her specialty was
English for hard-to-learn students. She would work with them where they
could start learning a mastering task, anyway," said her daughter,
Dahlaia Roberts of Bartow. "She never really retired. She served as the principal of
the summer program at Carver Rec Center in Bartow for 15 years. She
always substitute-taught when she felt like it, just to stay in touch
with the students."Mrs. Roberts was born in Fairfield on Jan. 22,
1928. When she was 9 years
old, her parents died and she went to live in Tampa with her aunt and
uncle. After graduating from Florida Memorial College in the
late 1950s, she came to Bartow and started her career with the Polk
County School Board, working at
Alturas Elementary and Gibbons
Street Elementary, where she taught primarily fourth and first
grades. After she retired from the School Board in 1988, Mrs. Roberts
worked in summer tutoring programs. Most recently, she worked at the
Learn to Earn Program through the Polk Work Force."The paramedic who
took her out was one of her former students, and the nurse who was
working with her was one. She never forgot them (her students)."She was
a member of Mount Zion AME Church in Mulberry, where she sang in the
choir, taught Sunday school, and was a steward.
> Mrs. Roberts was preceded in death by her husband, Admiral D. Roberts in May. In addition to her daughter, she is survived by her son, Sidney Roberts, Atlanta; daughters, Wanda Ricks, Gainesville, Pearl Sams, Bartow; sister, Juanita Sams, Bartow; brother, Roscoe Sams, Bartow; 14 grandchildren. Visitation will be from 3 to 8 p.m. Friday at Gause Funeral Home, 625 S. Holland Parkway, Bartow. Services will be at 3 p.m. Saturday at Mount Zion AME Church of Mulberry. |