Obituaries

Billy Ray Pollard, Sr., affectionately known as Billy to all who knew him, entered into eternal rest on August 25, 2024, at the age of 83. Born on May 28, 1941, in Wedowee, Alabama, Billy's life journey came to a peaceful close surrounded by his loving family at his home in Lanett, Alabama. A cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Billy's love and legacy ripple through the generations. Billy shared 63 beautiful years with his devoted wife, Celia Pollard, demonstrating an unwavering partnership that stood as an inspiring testament to true love. Together, they raised a family that includes their children, Diane Byess (Paul), Terry Pollard (Kim), and James Pollard, who each carry forward Billy's strength and kindness. The joy of his life continued to expand with his adored grandchildren Randi Foster (William), Teri Pollard Rialland (Matt), Jamey Pollard (Meagan), Joey Byess (Brandy), Chelsea Santoyo (Jessie), and Jeremy Pollard, and his great-grandchild

We are gathered today to honor and celebrate the life of Phillip David Landreth, Sr., a beloved family man and respected community member who passed away peacefully on August 5, 2024, in LaGrange, Georgia, at the age of 75. Born on New Year’s Eve in 1948, Phillip's life was one of commitment and caring, a journey that began in West Point, Georgia, and carried through every aspect of his actions and relationships. Phillip is remembered as a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, leaving a legacy of cherished memories. His children, David, Tim and his wife Stacey, Kristie, and Kenny, carry forward his spirit of kindness and strength. His grandchildren, Jonathan, Khristana, Wayne, Jake, Adrienne, Alaina, Shayla, and Dylan, alongside his great-grandchildren, Elizabeth, Lexi, Elli, Eli, Devin, Levi, Kristyn, Jeremiah, Haven, and Lainey, will continue to be guided by his love and wisdom. In addition to his immediate family, Phillip is survived by his girlfriend, Delores Benef

Jeanette Bishop Crook passed away peacefully Friday morning, Aug 23, 2024after three weeks of declining health. She is survived by her husband Paul Crook of West Point, her stepsons Mike Crook (West Point) and David and Scott Crook (College Park, Georgia). Jeanette was born in Manchester, Georgia, on May 9, 1942 to her parents Clyde Jackson Bishop and Maudie Mae Allen Bishop. Eight of her nine siblings preceded her in death: brothers Alvin Ferrell Bishop, Arthur Jackson Bishop, Willie Clyde Bishop; sisters Bessie Bishop McQuoirk, Alma Bishop Aldridge, Mavis Bishop Cline Sheets, Lottie Irene Bishop Childree, Betty Ann Bishop Boggs. She has one surviving sister, Flora Jean Adcock. Jeanette lived a life of love extended to her husband Paul, her stepsons, and the many, many descendants of her nine brothers and sisters. Her other passions included “doing” for folks. That’s why her West Point hairdressing business, Action Cuts, was a social center for many years. In addition, she and Paul tr

Bonnie Calhoun Williams, a member of the Scripps Hall of Fame for Journalism Excellence, died August 23, 2024. She was 73. Born in Langdale, AL, she was the daughter of Samuel J. and Annie Jo Kent Calhoun and the granddaughter of Dr. Samuel J. and Ada Louise Bryan Calhoun. Bonnie graduated from Valley High School and LaGrange (GA) College. After a brief career in banking in Atlanta, where she met lifelong friends, Bonnie returned to Langdale and became the Lifestyles Editor for the Valley Times-News. Bonnie’s newspaper career took her to the Managing Editor’s job at the Dalton (GA) Daily Citizen News and Pagination Coordinator with the Rome News Tribune and its community newspapers. Bonnie later became a public relations writer for Clemson University before ending her career after more than ten years as Editorial Page Editor for the Scripps owned Anderson Independent Mail. Bonnie’s editorials were twice recognized at Scripps National Journalism Awards Ceremony at the Washington Press C

Matthew Gregg Ragland, known affectionately as Gregg, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2024, in Lanett, Alabama, at the age of 66. Born on June 19, 1958, in Valley, Alabama, Matthew was a man whose life was defined by his love for his family, his passion for the outdoors, and his unwavering kindness. Matthew's memory will be cherished by his beloved wife, Cindy Ragland, and his daughters, Shannon Bozeman and Stephanie Brown. He was a guiding light in the lives of his brother, Mike (Mary) Ragland, and his mother, Melba Ragland. His legacy will live on through his five adoring grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Matthew was preceded in death by his father, Johnny Ragland. An avid outdoorsman, Matthew found solace in fishing and hunting, embracing the tranquility of nature. His love for animals was evident, with his cat Nash being a cherished companion. A true NASCAR enthusiast and a devoted Alabama Football fan, Matthew's spirited support for his favorite teams was i

Jeffrey “Mickey” Wayne Poss, age 55, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2024, surrounded by his wife and children. Mickey joins his parents, Howard Lee Poss and Carrie Langford, brothers Howard, Bobby, Marc Poss and sister Linda Herron. Mickey was born one of 12 children, at a time when playing in the creeks and riding your bike until dark was popular. He is survived by his wife, Kathy Poss; sons, Collin Poss (Amanda), Corey Poss (Crystal), Coleman Poss, Cody Kirkland, and Robert Vaughan; grandchildren, Kayleen, Elena, Harrison, and Asher Poss who were the Apple of his eye. Also, siblings, Becky Hart (Kenney), Eddie Poss, Susan Hancock (Joe), Carol Harrison (Mark), Lisa Thurmond (Billy), Sally Love (John), Brian Poss and many special nieces, aunts, and Uncles. Mickey lived his life to the fullest and was happiest surrounded by his children outside listening to his music. For years, he had his own construction company. He later joined Challenge Manufacturing; he was a natural and soon

Mrs. Barbara A. Marshall Hall, a resident of Lanett, AL, died Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at Diversicare of Lanett Healthcare Facility, Lanett, AL. Funeral Services are scheduled for Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at 1:00 P.M. (EST) from New Dimensions Worship Center, 5610 U. S. Highway 29, Valley, AL, Bishop Donald Lancaster, Pastor, Rev. Calvin Marshall, Eulogist. Interment will follow in Pine Hill Cemetery, 2167 22nd Street SW,Lanett, AL. Davis Memorial Mortuary of Valley directing. Public Viewing is scheduled for Tuesday, August 27, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Davis Memorial Mortuary Chapel. Barbara Ann Marshall Hall was born on September 3, 1954, to the the parentage of Charlie Winston and Ethel Marshall in Chambers County, Alabama. She gained her wings into eternal rest on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at Diversicare of Lanett Healthcare Facility in Lanett, Alabama. Barbara was preceded in death by: her husband, LeRoy Hall; three brothers, Terry Marshall, Eddie “Killa” Marshall

Franklin Virgil Chappell, affectionately known as Frankie to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2024, in Cusseta, AL, at the age of 58. Born on March 29, 1966, in Valley, AL, Frankie was a man whose infectious laughter and generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Frankie's life was a testament to the love he had for his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Alana Chappell; his proud sons, Jamie, Brett, and Dokata (Kody) Arabie; his cherished grandchild, Jamison Chappell; his loving mother, Jessie (Cooter) Magbee; his father, Charles (Mary) Chappell; and his caring brother, Lee (Stephanie) Chappell. He will also be fondly remembered by his nephews, Jonathan, Jarad, Jackson Chappell, and Justin Chadwick; as well as his in-laws, Anthony (Cindy) Chadwick and sister-in-law, Jennifer Chadwick. Frankie was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Colene Chadwick, and brother-in-law, Ashley Chadwick. Frankie's professional life was ma

Faye Roberts Cotney, 89, of Lanett, passed away on August 13, 2024, at her daughter’s home in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Faye was born on November 11, 1934, to Evie Mae and Clyde Roberts of Milltown, Alabama. A graduate of Milltown High School, she worked in the weave room at Lanier-Carter mill until her retirement. Predeceased by her husband, J.T. Cotney, her parents, and her brothers Chester, William, Clarence, and Marvin Roberts, Faye is survived by her son, Terry Cotney (Rebecca) of Lanett, daughter, Ann McLendon (Robert) of Virginia Beach, Virginia, granddaughter Rachel Cotney (Monty Walsh) of Valley, her grandson Jeremy McLendon (Tiffany) of Virginia Beach, and her three great-grandchildren, Rylan, Jillian, and Charlotte McLendon. Mrs. Cotney is also survived by her sisters Betty Brown, Sarah Bradley, Marie Daniel, and Evelyn Wagner, her sisters-in-law Barbara Roberts and Leta Roberts, and by her many nieces and nephews. The family will welcome friends at Johnson Brown-Service Fun

Ms. Patricia Brannon,75 of Phenix City Alabama passed away unexpectedly at her residence on Thursday, August 15th. There will be no service planned for Ms. Brannon.

  Mr. Roy Bell Varner, a resident of Valley, AL, died Thursday, August 15, 2024 at East Alabama Medical Center, Opelika, AL. Funeral Services are scheduled for Friday, August 23, 2024 at 12:00 P.M. (EST) from Davis Memorial Mortuary Chapel in Valley, Rev. Robert L. Carter, Officiant and Dr. Raymond Cochran, Eulogist. Interment will follow in Fairview Cemetery, 1335 River Road, Valley, AL. Davis Memorial Mortuary directing. Public Viewing is scheduled for Thursday, August 22, 2024 from 3:00 pm until 6:00 pm (EST) at Davis Memorial Mortuary Chapel. Mr. Roy Bell Varner was born January 23, 1950 in the Riverview Community of Valley, Alabama to the late Ms. Ruth Mae Varner and Mr. Norman Thomas, Sr. He confessed Christ at an early age and joined Bethlehem Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Tom Davidson. He was educated in the Chambers County School System graduating from Rehobeth High School in the Class of 1969. After graduation, Roy proudly served his country in the United States

With a heart full of service and a legacy of boundless courage, Chief Johnny Allen, affectionately known as Johnny, passed away peacefully at his residence in Lanett, Alabama, on August 12, 2024. Born in Langdale, Alabama, on December 30, 1961, Johnny lived a life that exemplified kindness, bravery, and a dedication to his community. Johnny dedicated his career to protecting others, beginning as a firefighter in 1983. Through his unwavering commitment and admirable work ethic, he ascended to the rank of Captain and Paramedic with the City of Lanett Fire Department. His exceptional leadership and passion for service led to his appointment as Fire Chief in 2009, a role he proudly held until his passing. During his tenure, Johnny was responsible for spearheading various projects for the City of Lanett and shared his expertise by serving on several boards, including the Chattahoochee Valley Water District and Chambers County 911. Beyond his professional endeavors, Johnny also left his mark

                                                                                  Ms. Geraldine Tucker Dozier, a resident of Valley, AL, died Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at her residence. Funeral Services are scheduled for Wednesday, August 21, 2024 at 1:00 P.M. (EST) from the Heard Center at Zion Rest Baptist Church, Valley, AL with Pastor Frederick Stanley as Officiant/Eulogist. Interment will follow in Zion Rest Cemetery, Valley, AL. Davis Memorial Mortuary of Valley directing. Public Viewing is scheduled for Tuesday, August 20, 2024 from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. (EST) at Davis Memorial Mortuary Chapel. Funeral Services by Davis Memorial Mortuary of Valley.

Ms. Mattie R. Stephens Hubbard, a resident of Valley, AL, died Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at East Alabama Medical Center, Opelika, AL. Funeral Services and survivors to be announced by Davis Memorial Mortuary of Valley

Roy Beckwith Archer III “Arch”, passed away peacefully on August 6th. Arch was born in West Point, Georgia on the 4th of February 1952. He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Dr. Roy B. Archer, Jr. and Sarah Frances Harrell. He graduated from West Point High School and studied Psychology at LaGrange College. Arch was an avid traveler, but through friends and family remained tethered to the West Point and Valley area. His major accomplishment was building an ocean-going sailboat, from blueprints, and sailing it over to the Out Islands of the Bahamas with his wife and 18-month-old daughter. He also worked as an optician at “Archer Optical”, his father’s optometry practice. He bought rental houses and had a leasing company for a few years. Along with his business partner, Bob Wilkinson, Arch developed the Briarwood Subdivision in West Point. He was a member of West Point Presbyterian Church. Arch is survived by his daughter, Carson MacHell-Archer of West Point, GA. The gravesid

  Mr. Antwurn R. Calloway “Red”, 49 of LaFayette, AL formerly of Atlanta, GA passed away on Friday, August 9, 2024. Public Visitation will be held on Friday, August 16, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. CST at Silmon-Seroyer Funeral Home Chapel in LaFayette. Mr. Calloway will lie in state at the church one hour prior to the funeral service. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024, 3:00 p.m. CST at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in LaFayette, AL, Rev. Gary L. Dixon, Pastor / Officiating, Rev. Shandor Calloway, Eulogist. Burial will follow in Essie J. Handy Cemetery in LaFayette. He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving father and stepmother, Aaron and Margaret Calloway of Lithonia, GA, a stepfather, Bobby Peters (late Mary) of Atlanta, GA, his brothers, Willie Todd and Travis Calloway, his sisters, Tanish Calloway (J. Trent) and Cassandra Moore (Stacy), all of Atlanta, GA, his grandmother, Annie G. Hughley of LaFayette, AL, his special sisters, RoShelle Holloway Pi

Mrs. Katie Ruth (Payne) Walton, 82 of Lanett, AL passed away on Friday, August 9, 2024 in Birmingham, AL. Public Visitation will be held on Friday, August 16, 2024, 1:00 p.m.  until 6:00 p.m. CST at Silmon-Seroyer Funeral Home in LaFayette. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024, 12:00 p.m. CST at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church in LaFayette, AL, Rev. Michael Stiggers, Pastor; Officiating, Rev. Gary L. Dixon, Eulogist. Burial will follow in Harmony Memorial Park in Lanett, AL. Mrs. Walton is survived by a loving and devoted son, Byron Payne and loving daughter-in-love, Dale Payne, her sister, Rosa Kelly of Columbus, GA, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Her list of special friends is too long to list, she made everyone feel special. Her village that she called at any time were, Katie Carey, Ruby Walker, Minnie Holloway, Hazel Woods, and Myron Fears, all of Lanett, AL, Paul Moss of South Carolina, and Carolyn Farmer of Birmingham, AL.

Mr. Willie C. Ray, 73 of LaFayette, AL passed away on Friday, August 9, 2024. Public Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 14,2024, from 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. CST at Silmon-Seroyer Funeral Home Chapel in LaFayette. Mr. Ray will lie in state at the church one hour prior to the funeral service. Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, August 15, 2024, 2:00 p.m. EST at Emanuel Chapel C.M.E. Methodist Church in West Point, GA. Elder Dr. Curtis West, Eulogist, Rev. Gary L. Dixon, Officiating. Burial will follow in the “Old” New Mt. Sellers Baptist Church Cemetery in LaFayette. Mr. Ray leaves to cherish his memories: his wife, Rev. Bettye Ann Ray of LaFayette, AL, five sons, Walter (Lisa) Brooks of LaFayette, AL, Stanley Brooks of LaFayette, AL, Anthony Brooks of Peachtree, GA, Wayne (Sharon) Williams of LaFayette, AL, and Josiah Beasley of Opelika, AL, his father, Willie Jr. Heard of Roanoke, AL, twenty four grandchildren, twenty great grandchildren, his siblings, John Otis Ray

Linda Kelly Butts, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend to many, passed away on August 10th, 2024, in Valley, Alabama. She was born on November 12th, 1948, in the same town where she spent most of her life. Linda is survived by her loving mother Mary Kenady; her two sons Chad (Robin) Butts, Randall (Mandy) Butts, her cherished grandchildren Ryleigh Butts, Caitlyn (Andrew) Anthony, Jaci (Jesse) Lee; as well as her great-grandchildren Emma, Leigha, and Asher Anthony, and Charlotte and soon to arrive baby girl Lee. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ray Butts, and her fathers, John A. Kenady and Thomas B. Kelly, Jr. Throughout Linda’s life she found a joy in simple pleasures such as cheering on her Auburn Tigers, or spending time at the beach with family. Sunday lunches were always a special occasion for Linda, as it brought her family together in her home. Her faith played an important role in Linda’s life as she was an active lifetime member of Langdale Methodist Church. Her

Mr. Horace Trimble, 73 of Dadeville, AL passed away on Friday, August 9, 2024 at Baptist South Medical Center in Montgomery, AL. Public Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 14,2024 from 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. CST at Silmon-Seroyer Funeral Home Chapel in LaFayette. Graveside Services will be held on Thursday, August 15, 2024, 12:00 p.m. CST at Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church in Waverly, AL, Rev. Shandor Calloway, Pastor, Rev. Tommie Finley, Officiating. Mr. Trimble leaves to cherish his memories, his children, Terry Trimble, Monica Maddox and Michael Maddox, his sister, Ruby Finley (Tommie), two brothers, William Trimble (Janie), and Walter Golatte (Fredonia), all of Camp Hill, AL, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Ms. Mary Liza Appleby, 80 of Roanoke, AL passed away on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at her home. Public Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. CST at Silmon-Seroyer Funeral Home Chapel in LaFayette. Ms. Appleby will lie in state at the church one hour prior to the funeral service. Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, 1:00 p.m. CST at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, Roanoke (Welch Community), AL, Pastor Calvin Trammell, Officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Ms. Appleby leaves to cherish her memories to her children, three daughters: Kimberly Goss, Priscilla (Michael) Woods, and Samantha (Rodrell) Burks, all of Roanoke, AL, two sons: Robert Appleby and Gregory Goss, both of Roanoke, AL, seven grandchildren: Barry Goss, April Goss, Kevin Appleby, Kerry Pogue, all of Roanoke, AL, Denise (Sidney) Martin, of Newnan, GA, Cassandra Phillips of Opelika, AL, and Demecia Allen of  Cordell, GA, thirty-one great-

Mr. Rocshell N. Calloway, 48 of Roanoke, AL passed away on Sunday, August 4, 2024. Public Visitation will be held on Friday, August 9, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. CST at Silmon-Seroyer Funeral Home Chapel in LaFayette. Mr. Calloway will lie in state at the church one hour prior to the funeral service. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, August 10, 2024, 3:00 p.m. CST at Christian Memorial Church in Roanoke, AL, Pastor Gilbert Staples, Officiating. Burial will follow in Sky View Memorial Gardens in Five Points, AL. Mr. Calloway leaves to cherish his memories, his mother, Maggie Calloway Hill, children: Nicodda Calloway, Nicorean Calloway, McKenzie Turner, Jaydon Calloway, and Knowledge Huguley, his siblings: James (Kim) Nolan, Prattville, AL, Patrick Nolan, Shanta (Shaquille) Calloway, and Santwanna Thompson, all of Roanoke, AL, and Shandrel Daniels, San Antoino, TX, his aunt: Dicey Sims, Roanoke, AL, his uncles: Curtis Calloway and David (Betty) Calloway, both of Roanoke

  Donald "Smiley" Smith, a man whose infectious laughter and kind-hearted spirit brought joy to all who knew him, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2024, in Phenix City, Alabama. Born on November 19, 1954, in Langdale, Alabama, Smiley, as he preferred to be called, lived a life full of laughter and love. Smiley's early years were spent in the tight-knit community of Langdale. It was there he learned the values of friendship and generosity that would characterize his entire life. He became a cherished member of the Rocky Mount Baptist Church, where he shared his faith and joy with those around him. Throughout his life, Smiley was a dedicated family man. He is survived by a close-knit family, including his lifelong friend, Jo Lyn Sands; his beloved children, LaNesa, Christopher, and Jonathan Kit Smith, who is married to Kelly Watts; and his adoring grandchildren, Hannah Autrey, Erin Autrey (Savannah), Trent Williams (Misty), Michael Chad Spence (Haley Lyons), Austin Smith,

Roy Beckwith Archer III “Arch”, passed away peacefully on August 6th. Arch was born in West Point, Georgia on the 4th of February 1952. He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Dr. Roy B. Archer, Jr. and Sarah Frances Harrell. He graduated from West Point High School and studied Psychology at LaGrange College. Arch was an avid traveler, but through friends and family remained tethered to the West Point and Valley area. His major accomplishment was building an ocean-going sailboat, from blueprints, and sailing it over to the Out Islands of the Bahamas with his wife and 18-month-old daughter. He also worked as an optician at “Archer Optical”, his father’s optometry practice. He bought rental houses and had a leasing company for a few years. Along with his business partner, Bob Wilkinson, Arch developed the Briarwood Subdivision in West Point. He was a member of West Point Presbyterian Church. Arch is survived by his daughter, Carson MacHell-Archer of West Point, GA. The gravesid