Meridian High Wildcats '58

noreply@blogger.com (Martha Markline Hopkins) — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 01:24:00 +0000

FLORA ALICE "MAXINE' REEDER STRICKLAND OBITUARY

Our sweet Flora Alice “Maxine” Reeder Strickland, lovingly known as Nany, passed peacefully on January 29, 2026, at the age of 85. She was born October 25, 1940, in Meridian, Mississippi. After attending Meridian High School in Meridian, she went on to enjoy raising her children as one of her favorite things.

In 1980, Maxine and her husband Bill, began what is now a third-generation legacy. Maxine played an integral part in bringing Sunbelt Fasteners, now known as Sunbelt Supply LLC. to the forefront of the supply industry that has served them well over the years.

Nany and her husband, Bill Strickland, moved to LaGrange in 1999. They enjoyed fishing in their lakes. She loved all animals and rescued anything from donkeys to raccoons, dogs to a family of squirrels who still reside in her backyard trees. Her favorite pet was a rooster who loved her. She would take rides around the property in the Kubota and sitting next to her was that rooster who thought he was her protector.

Maxine was an excellent cook and always had food cooking in case anyone dropped by. Her peach cobbler and her cornbread were the best in the land. She named her property the “Garden of Eatin’’. Nany always had a story to tell. Many of her stories were repeated more than once and were enjoyed each time they were heard.

She was an attentive mother who cherished moments spent playing with her children. Her love for her family shone brightly, and she took great pride in her children and grandchildren, which were among her proudest accomplishments. Maxine is survived by her loving children, Marc (Deb) Strickland of Ledbetter, Debbie (Lester) Harlow of Altair, Scarlet (Julius) Castillo of La Grange, Dennis Faulkner of La Grange, Rita Faulkner of Georgetown, Stephanie Baker of Millbury, Massachusetts, Peter (Linda) Strickland of Franklin, Tennessee, and Shane (Karen) Strickland of Round Rock.

She also leaves behind her sister, Cathy Philbin of Houston, twelve cherished grandchildren, several great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever hold her memory in their hearts. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 54 years, Bill Strickland, her parents, Arnold Lee Reeder and Flora Ethel (Ivey) Reeder, brothers Arnold Ozell Reeder and Jerry Arnold Reeder, and sister Gayle (Reeder) Hayes.

Maxine Strickland's life was a beautiful blend of family, friendship, and culinary artistry, impacting the lives of many with her warmth and creativity. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all whose lives she touched.

A private memorial service for Maxine Strickland will be held at a later date.

The family requests that memorial donations be made to Gardenia Janssen Animal Shelter in La Grange, Texas.

noreply@blogger.com (Martha Markline Hopkins) — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 03:21:00 +0000

Obituary for Tommy Coates

MERIDIAN, Miss. (WTOK) -Funeral services for Mr. Graham C. “Tom” Coats, III will begin at 12:30 PM Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Robert Barham Family Funeral Home chapel. Interment will follow graveside rites at Graham Cemetery, on Valley Road. The Coats Family will receive guests from 10:30 AM until 12:15 PM prior to funeral rites. Robert Barham Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.

Mr. Coats, 85, of Meridian, went to be face to face with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Saturday, December 4, 2025, at his daughter’s home.

Tom was involved in many ventures throughout the years, including managing The Threefoot Building, founding the Threefoot Deli, and The Meridian Brakeman Baseball Team, always expressing his entrepreneurial spirit. He was a graduate of Mississippi State University class of 1962 where he majored in Mechanical Engineering. He spent many years in the Aerospace Industry working in Thermo-Dynamics, with companies such as Boeing, Lockheed-Martin, and eventually retiring with McDonald-Douglas. His family often teased him of being a rocket scientist. After his retirement in Aerospace, he took over management of the family business, Coats & Coats Personnel Consultants. Tom was a Real Estate Broker in Meridian for 20 years at Century 21 Howell Realty. Tom was an outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, horses, and tinkering on his tractor. He was a music lover and enjoyed pickin’ and grinnin’ with friends. He was Christian by faith and was a member of Berachah Church Houston, TX. Tom never met a stranger and was fiercely competitive; he loved to “Close the deal.”

Tom is survived by his wife of nearly 67 years, Erma “Genie” Coats; children, Liz Bosarge (Stu), Graham C. Coats, IV (Kelli), Ninette C. Garland, and Lela Linnenkohl (Jerry); Twelve Grandchildren, Twelve Great-Grandchildren; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

noreply@blogger.com (Martha Markline Hopkins) — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 00:50:00 +0000

lizabeth “Beth” Hobgood Clark, age 85, of Meridian, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025.

Born on February 26, 1940, in Meridian, Mississippi, Beth spent her life devoted to her family, her faith, and her community. She worked faithfully as the secretary to the Meridian Chief of Police for 30 years and later served as the secretary for the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department for over a decade. After her retirement from public service, she continued to greet others with her warm smile as a receptionist at Norman Roofing.

Beth was a member of Central United Methodist Church, where she treasured her church family and joyfully served as treasurer of her Sunday school class for many years. Her faith guided her life and shone through in the kindness, humor, and generosity she shared with everyone around her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Otis & Cecilia Hobgood, her sisters Amy Lampton and Felicia Sessums, her husband, Harold Clark, and her daughter, Cheryl Culberson. She is survived by her children Wayne Dowdle (Debbie Batia) and Amy Norman (Chuck); her stepchildren Debbie Barnes (Harry), Steve Clark, and Leslie Clark; her grandchildren Ashley Slaton (Rush), Justin Dowdle (Brenna), Amanda Culberson, Tyler Norman (Julia), and Amber Brune (Jeffrey); several great-grandchildren and many friends and extended family who loved her dearly.

Beth will be remembered for her loving heart, her gentle spirit, and her gift of making everyone feel special. She found joy in crocheting, cooking for her loved ones, and spending time surrounded by her family.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Webb Funeral Home (Downtown) in Meridian, Mississippi. The funeral service and graveside will follow at 12:00 p.m.

Beth’s life was one of faith, laughter, and love—an example of grace and goodness that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Obituary of Harry L., Hopkins, husband of Martha Ann Marklkne Hopkins. They were married for 63 years.

noreply@blogger.com (Martha Markline Hopkins) — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 00:08:00 +0000

Harry L Hopkins, a cherished man known for his kind, loving, caring, and cantankerous personality, left us on September 24, 2024. Born on August 11, 1935, Harry lived a life filled with tremendous passion, discipline and service towards others. As a lawyer, he was the champion of the people, even arguing a case in front of the United States Supreme Court. As a father and friend, he was a steady hand that steered the ship. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Martha Markline Hopkins, daughter Dr. Caroline Baker, son Peter Hopkins (Monica), grandsons Caleb Baker (Taylor), James and Taylor Hopkins, and sisters Eleanor Scites, Sue Berry, and Kay Iffrig (Larry), whose lives were greatly enriched by Harry’s presence. His departure leaves an unfillable void in their lives, yet they find comfort in the memories they shared.

Harry was born in a barn in Piggott Arkansas, one of 12 children, and according to him, had his own milk cow. He was a graduate of University of Southern Mississippi and Tulane School of Law, and practiced law for sixty years, mostly in Birmingham, Alabama. He also taught for many years at University of Alabama Law School. If asked, Harry would likely say he was a farmer, but he was so much more. He was a shining example of how to think of others, a value that was central to his character. Over the years, he taught many how to be a lawyer and person of character.

In the 1970’s Harry became a labor law partner at Lange, Simpson, Robinson, and Somerville (Birmingham) where he would teach and mentor countless young lawyers in labor and employment law. Harry was especially proud of helping the Birmingham Board of Education achieve desegregation without violence or excessive rancor. Concurrently, his deep knowledge and passion for the law led the University of Alabama School of Law to draw on his talents.

In September 1997 Harry founded the Birmingham office of the internationally recognized labor and employment law boutique firm Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak, and Stewart. Harry was thrown an elaborate retirement party when he reached the mandatory retirement age of 70, and he was at the office bright and early the following day continuing to practice the profession he loved.

Harry L Hopkins, a gentleman farmer and lawyer, and beacon of empathy and justice, will forever reside in our hearts and will continue to inspire and guide us. As we grapple with the loss of his physical presence, we find solace in knowing that his spirit lives on in the many people he touched.

Harry appreciated the importance of education, and he founded the Hal R. Hopkins Scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi in honor of his brother who died too soon. If desired, you may donate by calling 601 266 4217,

noreply@blogger.com (Martha Markline Hopkins) — Sat, 08 Mar 2025 17:05:00 +0000

Donations for Reunion Planners' Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (Martha Markline Hopkins) — Wed, 24 May 2023 01:19:00 +0000

Our 65th Class Reunion was memorable in a myriad of ways! The group was large, classmates/attendees were in good form (thanks to our Lord), the reunion arrangements were stellar and all were determined to gather again - SOON! The gifts we presented to our loyal committee members reaped an overage of donations, allowing the class to present to Meridian Children’s Museum $150.00! The donation has been sent to the museum with acknowledgment of Meridian High School Class of 1958 - 65th Reunion - May 2023. Please inform our class of the donation via the blog, Facebook and other social means used by the class. Thank you for your efforts. Jinny Curran Walz

MHS 65th Reunion Class of '58 - May 2023 - Meet and Greet - Threefoot Boxcar Lounge

noreply@blogger.com (Martha Markline Hopkins) — Sun, 07 May 2023 21:11:00 +0000

Max Dinner - 65th MHS Reunion - May 2023

noreply@blogger.com (Martha Markline Hopkins) — Sun, 07 May 2023 19:56:00 +0000

noreply@blogger.com (Martha Markline Hopkins) — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 01:35:00 +0000

2008 Reunion

Carlee Hamilton, Peggy Edwards, Martha Ann Markline. Peggy Selklers, David James, Bennett Britt

In Memoriam

noreply@blogger.com (Martha Markline Hopkins) — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 01:50:00 +0000

IN MEMORIAM

MERIDIAN HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1958

(As of September 2025)

Sterling Ainsworth

Charlotte Alexander (Horn Hunt)

Joyce Bailey (Rider)

Bradford Baker

Margorie Barham (Sims)

Phyllis Beckman (Ainsworth)

Jackie Bergermeyer (Brooks)

William (Bill) Anderson Betts

Robert Earl Billingsley

David Bonner

Martha Ann Boswell (Burdick)

Leeann Bounds

Patsy Bradley

Joyce Bragg (Giles)

Shirley Broadhead (Turner Hamilton)

Gloria Brown (Bruister)

Richard Brown

Walter “Bobby” Brown

Georgia Merel Browning T(urnage)

Jimmy Bruner

Jeanette Buckley (Ferguson)

Oliver Buntin

Willie Ray Bungard

James Butts

Minnie Helen Calvert

Ryan Camp

Jean Chandler (White)

Rebecca Chism (Berta)

Lotelle Chisholm

Sylvia Ann Clark (White)

Thomas Graham Coates

Gloria Jean Cunningham

Everrett Clayton

Roy Crampton

Cecil Crawford

Thomas Eugene Crawford

Buddy Croxdale

Lance Culpepper

Gail Cunningham (Lang)

Gloria Jean Cunningham

Patrick “Pat” Curry

Sharon Daggett (Butler)

Arlene Davidson (Merson)

Mary Evelyn Davidson

Arthur Leonard Davis

Billy Wayne Dean

Alice Faye Dewitte (Ulfers)

Patsy Dorman

Nadoe Rene Ellis

Jackle Eddins (Pickard)

W. F. “Bobby” Enslen

Gerard Donald Ethridge

Marjorie Fant (Sims)

Billy Faulkner

Jeanette Ferguson (Noe)

Carolyn Fisher

Bobby Fleming

Homer Fletcher

Lix Fruge

Sephus Garrett

Carolyn Gipson (Falcon)

Jana Kay Glasser (Dalton)

Margie Fay Godwin (Dalton)

Jimmy Gossett

Richard Hsrrison Gough

Paul Graves

Carlee Hamilton (Whitaker)

Lidia Herrington (Minor)

Sandra Hodge (Jones)

Tony Holt

Amelia Hood (Roach)

Dot Hood (Adams)

James Ray Hopkins

Billy Horn

Richard House

Guy Howard

Michael Howard

Richard Huff-master

James “Jim” Hurley

David James

Robert “Bobby” Johnson

Mary Ruth Jones (Collum)

Lelia Keeton (Martin)

Albert Ray Keller

Mary Jane Kelly (Heisterkamp)

Mary Alice Keyes (Skelton)

Ouida Landreth (Tomlinson)

Delores Lott

Pansy McCarra (Mosby)

Charles “Stuff” McCraney

Judy McKellar (Thomas)

Tommy McMullan

Harold Glenn McQuage

Charles Maggard

Eddie Manney

Ann May (Watts Crowe)

Jimmy Mayatt

Frances Mayerhoff (Askew)

JoAnn Mills (White)

Sandra Mitchell (Huffmaster)

Rita Monette (Tillman)

Jackie Mosley (Massey)

Donald Briggs Murray

William “Dave Owen

Martin Palmer

Nona Parker (Rhodes)

Walter “Mac” Parker

Mary Virginia Petty (Moore)

Thomas Willard Pool, Jr.

Neil Pope

Walter Powell

Sue Powell (Gough)

Denman Powers

Mary Price (Robertson)

Sandra Pulliam

Terry Rainey

Ina Clair Randall (Manney)

Gay Love Rawlings (Elliott)

Fay Reed (Palmer)

Linda Reidenbaugh (Burks)

Arlene Richardson (Miles)

Raymond Roberts

Arlene Richardson (Miles)

Mona Robinson

Sylvia Rucker (Hitt(

Shirley Rush (Guy)

Richard Russell

Carey Ann Sanford (Dalton)

Clyde Searcy

Peggy Sellers (Rayzor)

George Shannon

Sue Shannon (Martin)

Wanda Ruth Sharp (Dixon)

Sarah Shelby

Bobby Shepard

Carolyn Smith (Minor)

James Minor Smith

Grantison “Grant” Smith

Peggy Joyce Smith (King)

Ann Stallworth (McKeown)

Elmer Stodard

Tony Storey

Fred Stroble

Ann Spitzer

Carolyn Tanner Kozman

Tommy Temple

Joyce Thompson (Rogers)

Louis Thompson

Billy Tidwell

Fred Tingle

Al Trussell

Paul Walker

Rita Ward (Alexander)

James “Peewee” Warren

Jimmy Watson

Linda Watts (Taylor)

Danny Wedgeworth

Carl Weldon

Betty Lou White (Ross)

Mack White

Mary Ann Williams (Wagner)

Meredith Williamson (Welch)

Carole Winslett (Dennis)

Edgar Lee Wright

noreply@blogger.com (Martha Markline Hopkins) — Wed, 02 Nov 2022 03:02:00 +0000

Martha (Markline) Hopkins riding Wild Blue, the flying horse she painted for the Meridian airport. It was originally inside, complete with carousel, decorated with her sky paintings. This was part of the Carousels Abound project, which placed artists' painted horses around town to advertise our famous Dentzel Carousel.

Bass caught by Will Hudson

noreply@blogger.com (Little Scribe) — Wed, 26 Jan 2022 21:33:00 +0000

Will Hudson says: nice bass I caught right off my boat dock on spinner bait lure.

Happy Birthday - January

noreply@blogger.com (Little Scribe) — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 19:44:00 +0000

Ethridge, Gerard D. (MHS) Jan. 27

Lewis, Jimmy (MHS) Jan. 25

Trussell, Al (MHS) (deceased) Jan. 21

Shaw, Charles P. (MHS) Jan. 16

Powers, Denman (MHS) Jan. 12
Brown, Richard Allen, MD (deceased) Jan. 4

Happy Birthday - December

noreply@blogger.com (Little Scribe) — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 20:36:00 +0000

Croxdale, Madeline Ray (MHS) Dec. 29

Griffin, Joe (MHS) Dec. 28

Weaver, Mary Anthony McLemore (MHS) Dec. 27

Gibson, Everett "Buddy" (MHS) Dec. .26

Thigpen, Morris (MHS) Dec. 25

Burnett, Ivan (MHS) Dec. 22

McCraney, Charles (MHS) (deceased) Dec. 18

Long, Tee Mann (MHS) Dec. 16

Bailey, Bob (MHS) Dec. 12

Smith, Minor (MHS) (deceased) Dec. 11

McDonald, Patsy (MHS) Dec. 11

White, Jo Ann Mills (MHS) (deceased) Dec. 10

Hermon Gray Johnson, III, Brother of Lynne Johnson Grimes

noreply@blogger.com (Little Scribe) — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 16:57:00 +0000

Graveside services for Gray Johnson will begin Tuesday, March 16, 2021, at 11 a.m. at Long Creek Baptist Church cemetery on Causeyville Rd., with Fr. Augustine Palimattam from St Patrick Catholic Church officiating. Robert Barham Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.

Gray, 82, passed away at Rush Foundation Hospital on March 14, 2021, from COVID.
Gray was the son of Hermon Gray Johnson Jr., and Dorothy Duane Johnson, born April 11, 1938.
The Meridian High School quarterback and Northwood lifeguard caught the eye of Peggy Joyce Shirley, which led to over 60 years of marriage until her passing in 2016. After graduation, Gray enlisted in the Marine Reserve with his first employment being with his uncle, John O'Neil Johnson, at Mississippi Beverage Company. Gray found his true passion by being an engineer with the railroad with GM&O and ICG, even coming out of retirement a few times when needed. After retirement and wanting to stay busy, Gray worked part-time at Lake Shore Studio and also the main downtown post office.
One of his and Peggy Joyce's hobbies was going to flea-markets locally as well as all over the state, yet their biggest interest together was the love of animals. Friends would jokingly say, you both should have been veterinarians, as they would save, feed and care for literally any animal. Known for his card-sharp mind and domino playing, Gray was also a past member of the Meridian Coin Club, and he turned his hobby of coin collecting into being a certified Numismatic enthusiasts' appraiser. Gray would say that he could not hear thunder but had a sharp and keen eye for helping people with their coin collections.
Gray is survived by his children, Dianne Johnson (Donald) Kitchens, Cathy Ann Johnson and Larry Johnson; his four grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren; his sister's, Lynne Johnson Grimes, Donna Jill Johnson and his brother, Duane O'Neil Johnson.
He is preceded in death by the love of his life, Peggy Joyce Shirley Johnson and his parents, Hermon Gray Johnson Jr, and Dorothy Duane Johnson.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be shared with East Mississippi Animal Rescue, 2440 North Hills Street - Suite 105-107 - Meridian, MS 39305 or a charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.robertbarhamffh.com.

Published on March 15, 2021

O God our Father, Creator of all the living,
we entrust to Your gentle care
all those we love who have gone before us;
and have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Eternal rest, grant unto Gray, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May the souls of the faithful departed
through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

John Landreth Obituary, Brother of Ouida Landreth Tomlinson

noreply@blogger.com (Little Scribe) — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 16:48:00 +0000

John Landreth

FEBRUARY 8, 1949 – NOVEMBER 19, 2021

John Landreth, age 72, of Mansfield, Texas passed away on Friday, November 19, 2021. John was born February 8, 1949.

O God our Father, Creator of all the living, we entrust to
Your gentle care all those we love who have gone before us;
and have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again. . . .
Eternal rest, grant unto, John, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.

May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

Obituary of Tommy L. Ranager, Husband of Nancy Collier Ranager (March 22, 2010)

noreply@blogger.com (Little Scribe) — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 04:22:00 +0000

Long-time Millsaps athletic coach Tommy Ranager, 68, passed away Monday, March 22, 2010 at the Brandon Court Nursing Home in Brandon. Visitation will be held today from 10am. until the 11am funeral service at Ott & Lee Funeral Home in Brandon. Graveside services are 3pm. today at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Meridian.
Born in Meridian, Mississippi on September 19, 1941, to Cecil L. Ranager and Annell Hansen, Tommy grew up in Meridian and attended Meridian public schools where he excelled in athletics.
He graduated from Mississippi State University where he was a starting offensive guard and defensive linebacker for the Bulldog football team. While at State he was a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity and MSU M Club.
He married Nancy Collier of Meridian and began his coaching career in Hazelhurst, Mississippi, where he coached football under Charles Calloway. His older son Cecil McKinley (Ken) was born in Hazlehurst and his younger son Thomas Clay was born soon after his move to Millsaps College.
In 1964 Tommy began a long, successful, happy career at Millsaps. For 25 years Tommy served as Coach Harper Davis' only assistant. Together they won games, broke records and touched the lives of hundreds of young men and women.
Coach Davis retired after 25 years, and Tommy became head football coach, concluding his career at Millsaps in 1996 after 32 years. His greatest joy was in knowing of the success and accomplishments of his former players and students.
During his tenure at Millsaps Coach Ranager taught health and physical education while also serving as the Majors' head baseball coach for nineteen years. He was succeeded by the current coach Jim Paige who was his former student and baseball player.
In 1975 Coach Ranager led the defensive unit to finish first in the nation in both scoring defense and total defense. In 1980 he led the defensive unit to set the Division III mark in scoring defense for a season by holding the opposition to 3.4 points per contest. In 1991 he led the football team in capturing its first Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference Championship.
Coach Ranager was inducted into the Millsaps Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995. In 2005 he was honored when Millsaps named the field house The Tommy Ranager Field House. An academic scholarship was also established in his name.
After retirement Tommy worked for Rankin County School District Alternative School under principal Jamie McKlemurry.
Tommy treasured his friends from all areas of life. He loved the outdoors and all it had to offer. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and sharing stories about past adventures. He was a wonderful cook and could easily draw a crowd whenever he fired up the grill or got out his gumbo pot -- the longer it took, the better!
He delighted in friends and family especially his six grandchildren.
He was a life-long Baptist and a charter member of Brandon Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by both parents. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Nancy Collier Ranager and his sons, Ken Ranager (Tana), Clay Ranager (Heather) and grandchildren Thomas Collier Ranager, Catherine McKinley Ranager, Cecil Hudson Ranager, Laura Preston Ranager, Mary Cecille Ranager and Jane Marie Ranager.
Other survivors include much loved stepmother, Helen Ranager; brothers, George Ranager (Beth) of Meridian, Ab Demoran and Louis Demoran of D'Iberville; and sisters, Cecilia Ranager Jackson of Meridian and Kandie Taylor (David) and Mary Scott of D'Iberville, Mississippi.
Memorials may be directed to Millsaps College for the Tommy Ranager Field House, Millsaps College Tommy Ranager Academic Scholarship or Brandon Baptist Church Building Fund.
The memory of a just man is a blessing." Proverb

Published by Clarion Ledger on Mar. 24, 2010.

O God our Father, Creator of all the living, we entrust to
Your gentle care all those we love who have gone before us;
and have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again. . . .
Eternal rest, grant unto, Tommy, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

OBITUARY OF KEN RANAGER, SON OF TOMMY AND NANCY RANAGER

noreply@blogger.com (Little Scribe) — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 04:06:00 +0000

Cecil McKinley "Ken" Ranager, 58, passed away on Saturday, November 20, 2021 in Brandon, MS. Born in Hazlehurst, MS, to Nannie Mae Collier Ranager and the late Tommy Laverne Ranager, Ken grew up in Brandon, MS, and attended Brandon High School. He played football alongside his brother, Clay, and under his father, Coach Tommy Ranager at Millsaps College where he also met the love of his life, Tana. She was his biggest cheerleader - on the sidelines and in life. He was a member of Kappa Alpha Order Fraternity, on the board of the Mississippi Furniture Association, served several terms on the board of Oaks Country Club and was active in the New Albany Main Street Association. He was happiest with a fishing pole in his hand and listening to the Rolling Stones. He was a member of First United Methodist Church of New Albany. He was loved by his friends and family and never met a stranger. Funeral services will be at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 23, 2021 at First United Methodist Church of New Albany with Reverend Doctor Tim Prather officiating. Burial will follow at Vista Memorial Park. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 36 years, Tana Browning Ranager; daughters, Catherine McKinley Ranager Gallagher and her husband James Thomas Gallagher III and Laura Preston Ranager; sons, Thomas Collier Ranager and Cecil Hudson Ranager; mother, Nancy Collier Ranager; brother, Thomas Clay Ranager and his wife Heather and daughters, Mary and Jane; and his grandson, James Thomas "Jack" Gallagher, IV. He was preceded in death by his father. Pallbearers will be his dear friends Rick Adair, Dan Keel, Blair Taylor, Cam Hogue, Jon Jackson, Bill Rutledge and Mike Alef. Visitation will be on Tuesday, November 23, 2021 from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Wesley Hall in First United Methodist Church. For online condolences please visit www.unitedfuneralservice.com. United is honored to be entrusted with these arrangements.

O God our Father, Creator of all the living, we entrust to
Your gentle care all those we love who have gone before us;
and have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again. . . .
Eternal rest, grant unto, Ken, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

Obituary of Jeanette Buckley Ferguson

noreply@blogger.com (Little Scribe) — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Funeral services for Mrs. Edith Jeannette Ferguson will begin at 11:00 a.m. Monday, November 15, 2021 at Robert Barham Family Funeral Home chapel with Pastor Marc Gibbs officiating. Robert Barham Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.

Mrs. Ferguson, 81, of Meridian, passed away Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at her residence.

Mrs. Ferguson is survived by her sons Kevin Ethridge (Natalia) and Curt Ferguson. Her brother Ed Buckley; sisters Laura Faulker and Frances Taylor.

Mrs. Ferguson is preceded in death by her parents Edwin Lawrence Buckley and Thelma Erleen Barber Buckley.

Condolences may be expressed online at robertbarhamffh.com.

The Ferguson family will receive guests from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. prior to funeral rites at the funeral home. 

O God our Father, Creator of all the living, we entrust to Your gentle care all those we love who have gone before us; and have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again. . . .

Eternal rest, grant unto, Jeamette, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon her.
May the souls of the faithful departed
through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

Jerry Arnold Morgan, deceased, husband of Nancy Young Morgan

noreply@blogger.com (Little Scribe) — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 17:04:00 +0000

February 6, 1936 - January 1, 2021

On Friday Jan. 1, 2021, Jerry Morgan, loving husband, father and grandfather passed away at the age of 84. Jerry was born on Feb. 6, 1936, in Meridian, Miss. to Johnny and Sadie Morgan. Upon graduation from Meridian High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he proudly served his country and enjoyed seeing new places like Japan and Hawaii aboard the USS Hornet from 1956 to 1960. After serving in the Navy, he met and married his wife Nancy Young in their hometown of Meridian, Miss. He worked for the City of Meridian as a Supervisor of the Public Works Department and also refereed football and umpired baseball with his brother Joe. In 1969 he began working for Roadway Express. His over 25 years of employment with the company also brought his family to Valdosta, Ga. After retiring from Roadway, he then worked for Guardsmark for over fifteen years until he retired in 2017.

He was an active member of West End Presbyterian Church, where he served as an elder and enjoyed gathering with his church family. Jerry loved to watch and talk about all sports and enthusiastically attended his children and grandchildren's track races, sporting games, recitals and performances. He loved to hear about his children's professional and creative endeavors on a daily basis. He could often be found sitting outside, filling bird feeders and enjoying the view from his front porch where he always greeted his family and neighborhoods that frequented the family home.
He was preceded in death by his father Johnny, his mother, Sadie Morgan, and his sister Betty Hall.
He is survived by his wife Nancy Morgan of Valdosta, Ga.; his children: John Clifton Morgan of Redwood, Miss., Mary Kathleen Morgan (Akira Hayashi) of Smyrna, Ga., Rebecca Galeano of Savannah, Ga., Jessica Castor of Valdosta, Ga.; his grandchildren: Noemi Galeano of Gainesville, Fla. and Madeline, Louden and Layla Castor of Valdosta, Ga.; his brother, Joe Morgan (Rose Morgan) of Gainesville, Fla.; sisters, Carolyn Pratt of Meridian, Miss., Pat Allen (Ron Allen) of Sevierville, Tenn., and numerous nieces and nephews.
Jerry was known for his devoted, kind and hardworking spirit, humorous nature and witty catchphrases that will continue to make his family and friends smile remembering him.
A private Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Jan. 23, 2021, in the Valdosta Chapel of Music Funeral Services.
To sign the guest book please call our Valdosta Location at (229)-244-2500 to let the family know you are thinking of them. Donations may be made in his name to West End Presbyterian Church at 106 St. Augustine Road, Valdosta, Georgia 31601. Kind messages and memories may be left to the family at www.musicfuneralservices.com. The compassionate and caring staff of Music Funeral Services, Azalea Crematory of Valdosta is serving Mr. Morgan's family.

Published on January 20, 2021

O God our Father, Creator of all the living, we entrust to Your
gentle care all those we love who have gone before us;
and have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again. . . .
Eternal rest, grant unto, Jerry, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May the souls of the faithful departed
through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

Happy Birthday - November

noreply@blogger.com (Little Scribe) — Sat, 06 Nov 2021 14:11:00 +0000

George, Philip (MHS)	Nov. 28
Williams, Jewel Patridge (MHS)	Nov. 24
Farr, Jimmy (MHS)	Nov. 21
Harmon, Kenneth (MHS)	Nov. 19
Adams, Ronnie (MHS)	Nov. 14
Kozman, Carolyn Tanner (MHS)	Nov. 12
Davis, Michael M (MHS)	Nov. 12
Tatum, Bill (MHS)	Nov. 10
Carlisle, Patsy Craven (MHS)	Nov. 10
Hall, Carol Annette Walley (MHS)	Nov. 2

Albert Ray Keller, Obituary, July 02, 1940 - October 12, 2021

noreply@blogger.com (Little Scribe) — Sat, 23 Oct 2021 15:57:00 +0000

Albert Ray Keller, Sr., 81, passed away suddenly in Las Vegas, NV, on Tuesday, October 12, 2021, from heart failure. He was a graduate of Meridian High School in Meridian, MS. Ray was a Navy veteran and retired electrician from Entergy Waterford 3. He was a resident of LaPlace, LA, for 39 years. He was a jack of all trades, handyman, electrician, woodworker, painter, artist, motorcycle rider, art and music lover. He was very active in the Goldwing group GWRRA Chapter K of Metairie. Ray was married to the love of his life, Kaye Keller, for 46 years. He is survived by his loving wife, Kaye Keller of LaPlace, LA; sons, David Keller and wife Pam; Barry Keller and wife Toni; Timothy Keller and wife Melanie, all of Meridian, MS; and daughter, Kara Salton and husband David of Houston, TX. He is preceded in death by his mother and step-father, Elwin and Thomas Blizard of Meridian, MS; father, Albert Flynt Keller of Meridian, MS; and his eldest son Albert R. Keller, Jr. of Pensacola, FL. Ray had 10 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. Albert, with his quiet sense of humor and handyman expertise, will be missed greatly by his family and friends. A small, private family memorial will be held as he wished.

A Fallen Limb

A limb has fallen from the

family tree. I keep hearing

a voice that says, “Grieve

not for me. Remember the

best times, the laughter,

the song. The good life I

lived while I was strong.

Continue my heritage, I’m

counting on you. Keep

smiling and surely the sun

will shine through. My

mind is at ease, my soul is

at rest. Remembering all,

how I truly was blessed.

Continue traditions, no

matter how small. Go on

with your life, don’t worry

about falls. I miss you all

dearly, so keep up your

chin. Until the day comes

we’re together again.”



O God our Father, Creator of all the living, we entrust to Your gentle care all those we love who have gone before us; and have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again. . . .
Eternal rest, grant unto, Albert Ray Keller, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May the souls of the faithful departed
through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

Arlene Louis Davidson Merson, Obituary, July 16, 1940 - October 16th, 2021

noreply@blogger.com (Little Scribe) — Sat, 23 Oct 2021 15:43:00 +0000

Arlene Louis Merson passed away on October 16th, 2021 in Boca Raton, FL with her family by her side.

Arlene was born on July 16th, 1940 in Meridian, MS. She and her three siblings, Lisa, Marilyn and Michael were raised by their loving parents, Sammy and Ruth Davidson. Arlene was very close with her parents and held their same values of the importance of family, helping those less fortunate and being true to yourself. Additionally, with inspiration from her Orthodox father, Arlene always loved following the Jewish faith Growing up, Arlene was a member of several groups and organizations. She was a majorette, Junior Auxiliary, Dusty (a local high school sorority) and active volunteer in her community. Arlene attended the University of Oklahoma where she met the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Merson.

Their instant appreciation for each other was truly special and one of a kind. For 61 years, they shared the greatest love story of all time. In 1961, Arlene and Bob graduated from the University of Oklahoma married and expecting their first child. They moved back to Arlene's hometown of Meridian, MS to start their adult lives. Arlene enjoyed working at her travel agency, leading fundraisers, participating in the Meridian Lively Arts Festival, traveling, hosting holiday parties, playing doubles tennis with Bob, skiing, and, most of all, spending time with her family. Arlene always cherished her family time. She was a wonderful Mother to her children, Michelle Merson and Howard and Caren Merson, and a "DD" and "AD" to her four grandchildren, Sammi, Hannah, Rebecca, and Josh.

Arlene's family described her as strong, loving, silly, and the matriarch of their family. Everyone who knew Arlene adored her smile, humor, kindness, and adorable Southern accent. She lit up every room she entered and always made the people around her feel happy. She was a truly sensational person and will be missed dearly.

If you wish to make a donation in honor of Arlene, please make it to the Mississippi Children's Museum - Meridian. Donations can be made through the organization's website, mcmmeridian.org, or by writing a check payable to "Mississippi Children's Museum- Meridian" and mailing it to PO Box 1007, Meridian, MS 39302. Their phone number is 601-512-0278.

KRONISH FUNERAL SERVICES - Boca Raton, Fla
Published by Sun-Sentinel on Oct. 24, 2021.

God full of mercy who dwells on high

Grant perfect rest on the wings of Your Divine Presence

among the holy and the pure

who shine in the brightness of the firmament

to the soul of Arlene

who has gone to her eternal rest

as all her family and friends

pray for the elevation of her soul.

Her resting place shall be in the Garden of Eden.

Therefore, the Master of mercy will care for her

under the protection of His wings for all time

And bind her soul in the bond of everlasting life.

God is her inheritance and she will rest in peace

and let us say Amen.

Anne Heard Stallworth McKeown, April 23, 1940 - October 15, 2021

noreply@blogger.com (Little Scribe) — Sat, 23 Oct 2021 15:22:00 +0000

Anne Heard Stallworth McKeown, 81, formerly of Jackson and Ridgeland, Mississippi, died Friday, October 15, 2021, in Brandon, Mississippi after a lengthy illness handled with grace, dignity, and humor.

A native of Meridian, Anne graduated from Meridian High School, attended Mississippi State College for Women, and was a graduate of the University of Mississippi and Millsaps College. A member of Kappa Kappa Gamma at Ole Miss, Anne taught English at Central High School in Jackson and was actively engaged in Jackson Junior League and other Jackson area civic and social activities. Passionate about all things involving faith, family, friends, and food, Anne’s network of friends expanded over the years, touching many lives and hearts. Anne was pre-deceased by her parents, Robert McClelland Stallworth and Virginia Townsend Stallworth of Meridian, Mississippi and Turnbull, Alabama. Survivors include two children, James Montrose McKeown II (Christina Ramirez McKeown) of Cypress, Texas and Rebekah McKeown Sanders (Richard Devon Sanders) of Atlanta, Georgia; six grandchildren, James Devon Sanders, William McKeown Sanders, and Caroline Ruth Sanders, all of Atlanta, Georgia, and Kathryn McKeown, William McKeown, and Evalyn McKeown, all of Cypress and Houston, Texas; two brothers, Robert McClelland Stallworth, Jr. of Midlothian, Virginia and Hugh Townsend Stallworth of Valrico, Florida; and numerous much beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins in Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, New York, Texas, Virginia, and Washington. A Celebration of Anne’s life and the Holy Eucharist will be held Monday, October 25, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Cathedral, 305 East Capital Street, Jackson, Mississippi with interment immediately following in St. Andrew’s All Soul’s Walk. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. in St. Andrew’s Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations may be made to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Cathedral (http://standrews.ms/giving/ or the Scleroderma Research Foundation (http://srfcure.org).

https://www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/22701553/anne-stallworth-mckeown/ridgeland/mississippi/sebrell-funeral-home?fbclid=IwAR3VeB81rIa6V8T-FyCCKYq4FZKQbZify4dtfASQdDwlFOb4XRIL-TWxBIs

O God our Father, Creator of all the living, we entrust to Your gentle care all those we love who have gone before us; and have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again. . . .
Eternal rest, grant unto, Anne, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon her.
May the souls of the faithful departed
through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

Hot Air Ballooning

noreply@blogger.com (Little Scribe) — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 22:34:00 +0000

Our Jinny crossing another one off her bucket list.