Robert Axton Eckler

William “Bill” Sessions Cox, Jr., 70, of Bentonia, Mississippi, passed away

peacefully at home on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. He was born in Yazoo County on

December 23, 1954 to William Sessions Cox, Sr and Nancy Tindall Cox.

He was a lifelong outdoorsman who loved the woods and all it offered, from hunting and

fishing to riding his horse through the Delta National Forest. He spent countless days

under big skies and among good friends, where he was happiest in the quiet of nature.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters Martha Cox Wilkes, Eugenia

Cox Walker, and Nancy Cox Kidd.

Bill is survived by his two children, Sarah Parker (Matt) Mabus and William Sessions

(Cassie) Cox III, and by two grandchildren, John William Mabus and Emma Joan Cox.

He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Charles M. Wilkes III, William Cox

Wilkes, Meta Walker Abraham, and Cannon Walker Williams, and by his aunt Barbara

Tindall.

Serving as pallbearers are William Cox Wilkes, Michael Williams, Joseph Williams, Jake

Abraham, Barron Williamson and T.R. Hilderbrand. Honorary pallbearers are James

“Dude” Hilderbrand, Charles M. Wilkes II, Billy Joe Walker, David Parker, Jim Barker,

and Mike Bell.

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the caring staff at The Love House at

Martha Coker Green House Homes and to the wonderful sitters who cared for him at

home.

Visitation will be held Saturday, November 8, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at Stricklin-King

Funeral Home. A private family graveside burial will follow at Cannon Cemetery in Bentonia. All arrangements are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home. 

  The world gained a true Ole Miss Rebel on November 24, 1964, when Kent Adams was born in Yazoo City, Mississippi, to Paul Adams Jr. and JoAnn Adams. The second of three children, Kent showed a bright personality and loving spirit from the beginning, filling every room he entered with laughter and joy – often while running around the house and playing with his older brother, Paul Adams III, and later with his younger sister, D’Ann Adams.

A proud graduate of Manchester Academy, Kent’s warm, encouraging nature made him the kind of person everyone wanted on their team. On the football field, wearing number 20, he played with camaraderie — one of the traits that would later guide his life. His wit and charm drew people in easily; Kent never met a stranger, a gift he carried from his mother. He believed in and was always there for you. A bright and quick-witted student, Kent built lasting friendships with his classmates and teammates. 

Driven by his love for Ole Miss, he attended The University of Mississippi in 1983 and graduated in 1987, shortly after welcoming the birth of his first child, AnnBri. Following his years at Ole Miss, Kent returned home to Yazoo City and continued expanding his family with Ann Adams-Downs. The two welcomed three more children between 1990 and 1996: Jonathan, Taylor, and Balee. His devotion to them never wavered. To them, and later to his grandchildren, Will Keeton, Jack Wylder, Lane Price and Faron Bates, he was affectionately known as “Chief.” He taught them to live life the way he did — with humor, patience, and unconditional love. True to his dedication to his family, Kent spent his career supporting the family business, Adams Home Center, helping build the company across many of its divisions, never afraid to embrace new things.

His infectious light brought him his loving wife, Stacy Adams, in 2016. The two were married in their favorite vacation spot—New Orleans. They enjoyed the “little” things in life: chilling, grilling, and cheering on the Ole Miss Rebels with all their family, and their four dogs—Chloe, Case, Jazzy, and Molly. On Saturdays, you could often find them sitting outside on the deck, with “Grill Master” Kent hard at work by the grill, soaking up the sunlight and watching the game.

From the moment you met Kent, you were enrapt by his persistent optimism—he radiated sunlight. To him, nothing was ever truly bad—just “Another Day in Paradise.” That phrase became his way of life. He had a rare ability to make people feel stronger, lighter, and loved. He was always willing to carry the load with you. It’s not often we meet someone who reminds us why we’re here, but Kent embodied that reason—to love all with an open heart and an endearing smile. His unconditional love for his family and community echoes through all those who were blessed to know him.

Kent lived his life as an example of how to love — fully, freely, and without hesitation. Though he has found his eternal paradise, the warmth of his smile, the sound of his laughter, and the strength of his love will forever echo through the lives he touched.

Kent was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Paul Adams Sr. and Thelma Adams, and his maternal grandparents, Joe Frank Thrasher and Verna Thrasher Powell.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Stacy Adams; his parents, Paul Adams Jr. and JoAnn Adams.; his siblings, Paul Adams III (Libby) and D’Ann Adams; his children, AnnBri Adams Spencer (Britton), Jonathan Adams (Blake), Taylor Adams Haynes (Michael), and Balee Adams; two stepchildren, Reid Hale and Stuart Hale; and his grandchildren, Will Keeton Ketchum, Jack Wylder Spencer, Lane Price Spencer, and Faron Bates Haynes—as well as many other family members, his faithful work crew and friends who loved him dearly.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Mississippi Cancer Institute or Children’s of Mississippi – Blair E. Batson in honor of Kent Adams.

On Friday, September 12, 2025, after a very brief illness, Gary left us with many memories, the value of his wisdom and the warmth of his unconditional love.

Born in Yazoo City, Mississippi, to W.T. Waller, Jr. and Ruth Gary, he married Jacquelyn May Scott (1940-2018) on March 21,1962 after meeting in the university band a few years prior. After completing his graduate studies at Vanderbilt and an extensive trip to Europe, they moved to Waterloo ON, in 1968. Gary and Jackie welcomed into their family James Scott (1973) and Amy Elisabeth (1976).

Gary’s professional history spans over 40 years at the University of Waterloo. He was appointed to the position of Assistant Professor in the department of Psychology in 1968, the department that he later chaired twice before being appointed to the position of Associate Provost, Academic and Student Affairs and then to that of Director of the Centre for Advancement of Cooperative education. While Gary “officially” retired in 2005, he was engaged, contractually, with the Provost, in a number of professional activities in the decade that followed.

Gary also enjoyed a rich and rewarding personal life with Jackie sharing their love of art, music and travel over many years. They were blessed to see their children prosper and thrive, sometimes in the face of adversity, but always with their support. The unequivocal support led to the professional success they both enjoy today. They were immensely proud of Jim and Amy and fortunate to see them happily married: Jim to Jocelyne Roberts and Amy to Robbie Prince. As grandchildren graced the family, Gary loved being “Grandpa” to Abigail and Adeline, the Princes’ 2 daughters.

Jackie’s death from cancer left Gary at sea until he re-connected with a former colleague of 30 years from the University of Waterloo. He and Lorraine Beattie married in 2019 and have been blessed to have had 6 wonderful years together, treasuring every moment and looking forward always to the next day together. They so enjoyed family and friends as well as theatre, music, occasional travel and their textured life in Doon.

Gary often said that he had led a charmed life and was most fortunate to have loved and been loved by 2 wonderful women. Someone who met him recently described him to me as “a great man with a good heart.” He was that and so much more. His unexpected death broke the hearts of all who loved him including his brother, Bob Waller and wife Mila, sister in-law, Gail Waller and late brother Kenneth, brother-in-law and dear friend Gilbert Scott and wife Martha, and brother-in-law, Paul Beattie with wife Rosa. He leaves us with exquisite memories and takes with him a part of all who loved him. 

Gary’s final hours were eased by the invaluable assistance of our dear neighbour, Beverly Brown. We thank the several first responders who did all they could for us, highly capable and sensitive in every way.

Cremation has taken place. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Stricklin-King Funeral Home http://www.stricklin-king.com/obituary.php in Yazoo City. Gary will be interred in a family plot, cemetery at the rural historic Fletcher’s Chapel United Methodist Church near Yazoo City. A quiet graveside service at Fletcher’s will be held at 2:30 PM on Sunday November 9th.

The expressions of support have been overwhelming, with our thanks. In lieu of flowers contributions could be made to the Food Bank of Waterloo Region, the University of Waterloo Foundation, or the newly-reformed Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony.

Glenda Millwood, age 73, of Yazoo City, Mississippi, passed away on October 15, 2025. She was born on October 14, 1951, in Yazoo County, Mississippi, to the late Charles Winstead and L. V. Creel.

Glenda was a devoted wife to Eugene Millwood, Sr. of Yazoo City. A faithful member of Eden Baptist Church, she lived her life with kindness, humility, and love for her family.  For many years, she worked as a cafeteria employee with the Yazoo City Schools.

She is survived by two sons, Michael Spell of Brandon, MS, and Robert “Bob” Millwood of Yazoo City, MS; one sister, Lavern Parker; three grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at Eden Baptist Church in Yazoo City. Visitation will be from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., with the funeral service following at 2:30 p.m. Burial will take place at Tranquil Cemetery in Yazoo County, Mississippi.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Adoration Hospice and Home Health for their compassionate care and support.

Stricklin King Funeral Home is handling all arrangements for the family.

Valgeane Odessa Russell Sr., 84, of Yazoo City, departed this life at his home on Sunday, October 12, 2025, as he had been declining in health.

Valgeane was born May 16, 1941 in Yazoo City, Miss., born to the late Beatrice Odessa Russell and Doyle Valgeane Russell.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, Beatrice and Doyle Russell; and loving wife, Sandra Geneva Russell.

He is survived by his children, Valgeane Russell Jr., (Victoria Romans) of Yazoo City, and Crystal Parker (Charles Parker) of Yazoo City; grandchildren, Jayson, Dalton, Russell, Bella Robles of Yazoo City, Madison and Madilyn Russell of Yazoo City, and Vanessa, Ethan, and Gracin Romans of Elkins, of West Virginia.

Valgeane was a 1959 graduate of Eden High School, attended Mississippi State University with studies in Veterinary Medicine and agriculture. He became a successful businessman of several specialties including logging, real-estate, liquor store, and trucking company. He was married to Ms. Sandra Geneva Farrish Feb 20, 1987 in Las Vegas, NV., as they made their home in Yazoo City, MS. 

Mr. Russell Sr. proudly served his community as mayor of Eden for several years.

Proud, dedicated, and a loving father, grandfather and friend, he will be missed dearly by all who knew him.

The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at Stricklin King Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Glenwood Cemetery, in Yazoo City, Miss. Stricklin King Funeral Home will handle all arrangements for the family.

Helon Mae Callihan was born on June 9,1931 to Lockard and Sadie Clunan Callihan in Yazoo County, MS. She resided in Yazoo County for all of her 94 years. Her adult years were spent in the Dover community near Bentonia.

In 1949 Helon married John Ed Manor. She was known to be creative from her high school years and found great personal satisfaction in her love of arts and crafts throughout her life. Helon was a fine seamstress even in her younger years. She sewed many of the children’s school clothes and later sewed for others in the community.

She came into her own when she discovered her love for painting and became known for that throughout the community and beyond. Many of her paintings have adorned walls in homes of friends and strangers alike for decades. Helon especially enjoyed teaching painting classes in her home studio and formed lasting memories and friendships through that experience.

A talent and love for crocheting accompanied her passion for painting. Even into her very recent years when she could no longer paint, she found purpose and enjoyment in making crochet items for her 9 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren, all who called her Grandy.

After the death of her beloved John Ed, Helon was blessed with 14 years of marriage to Paul Johnson and enjoyed her relationship with his children, Paul Jr (PJ), Barbara, Keith, and Sheila.   With Paul, Helon discovered a new love for gospel music. After Paul’s death, and until her own death, it was expected that any visit with Helon would have The Bill Gaither Vocal Band or the Booth Brothers playing in the background or on a DVD on her tv.

Helon continued to pursue her passions for painting and crocheting for as long as her abilities would allow, never giving up on her wish for a studio to teach in and a store setting to sell from. After moving into the Love House at Martha Coker Green Houses, Helon became known to the staff and visitors alike as the puzzle lady, having found a wonderful outlet for her creative drive.

Late on the morning of October 7, 2025, Helon left her body on this earth and was carried into the arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to be reunited with loved ones who had gone before and whom she missed immensely.

Helon Manor is survived by her brother Tommy Callihan (Judy), and her four children, Wanda (Wayne), Johnny (Belinda), Dennis (Sharon) and Melanie (Mike). Also remaining to carry her legacy are 9 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Larry, and her sister, Nancy.

The family would like to thank the staff of The Martha Coker Green Houses and particularly of the Love House for their tender and loving care over these past few years. Nurses from Adoration Hospice have been tremendous in their care for Helon and the rest of the family as well. We want to extend a warm thank you to her friend, and painting student, Brenda Martin for her faithful and loving visits and for being there with us by her side in her final hours here. We want to thank Mama’s life-long, literally, friend Ann Wert, her Annie, who she loved so much and was there through thick and thin. There are too many others to name, but your love and care for Miss Helon is so greatly appreciated.

The funeral will be held on Thursday, October 9 at Stricklin-King Funeral Home, 718 Calhoun Avenue, Yazoo City, MS. Visitation begins at 1:00 p.m. and the service will be held at 2:00 with burial to immediately follow at Dover Cemetery. All arrangements are being handled by Stricklin King Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers contributions to Mission Dignity PO Box 819109 Dallas, TX  75381-9957 would be appreciated and well used.    

William Pierce Boatner, 77, of Vaughan, passed away Friday, September 26, 2025. He was born 

in Yazoo County on February 1, 1948 to Otis William Boatner and Annie Louise Pierce Boatner. 

Visitation will be on Wednesday, October 1 from 10am until 11am at Black Jack Baptist Church. 

Funeral service will begin at 11am at Black Jack Baptist Church, with Rev. Drake Nelson officiating.  

Burial will follow at Shiloh Cemetery, all under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home.

Pierce was a lifelong resident of the Linwood community. He was a graduate of Benton High School 

and Holmes Junior College, where he obtained a degree in machine shop. After college, he joined 

the family farming operation and spent most of his life raising row crops and cattle. Later in life, he 

owned and operated Benton 66, a local convenient store where you got the day’s news with your morning coffee. Pierce wore many hats in his life, but his favorite role was being a husband, father and grandfather. He loved nothing more than spending time with them. Pierce was a dedicated husband to Nanci, his loving wife of 50 years, and a devoted father to his daughter, Christy and son-in-law, Bill. He was a proud, loving grandfather to Kyle. The pair spent many adventurous times together. Kyle could do no wrong in Pierce’s eyes. He was always there for them, whether he was helping them with everyday activities or cheering them on at sporting and horse events. 

He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his loving wife, Nanci, his daughter, Christy (Bill), his grandson, Kyle, his brother, Howard Boatner (Cindy Lou), sisters-in-law, Cindy Boatner and Glynda Boatner, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Pierce was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Jimmy D. Boatner and Timothy C. 

Boatner. 

Pallbearers are Brandon Batson, Bo Boatner, Jason Boatner, John Wesley Boatner, Landon 

Hood, Chris Pierce, Keith Pierce, and Jacob Williamson.

Honorary Pallbearers are Ralph Faulkenberry, Roy Bradfield, Ronnie Hutchinson, David Ketchum, Albert Moore, Danny Pettigrew, Bill Pierce, and Tony Pierce.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to The Friends of Shiloh Cemetery, Inc.,

8917 Graball Freerun Rd, Yazoo City, MS 39194 or Black Jack Baptist Church, 1914 Black Jack Rd., 

Vaughan, MS 39179.

 Lydia Stubblefield Sligh, 88, passed away Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at Riverview Nursing and Rehab in Greenwood, Mississippi.

Born in Benton, Mississippi, to Lydia North Stubblefield Avery and David Fort Stubblefield, Lydia attended Benton schools where she was a cheerleader and basketball player before graduating in 1954. She studied for a year at MSCW before marrying James Ray Sligh. Together they had one daughter, Lydia Raye.

Lydia worked as a bookkeeper with Mississippi Chemical Corporation in Yazoo City, L.A. Penn & Sons in Canton, and later retired from Bridges Mortgage Company in Jackson. She was known for her vibrant personality, her love for her Benton classmates—whom she often gathered for reunions—and for being the “life of the party.” She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, as well as a loyal New Orleans Saints fan. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in Greenwood.

She is survived by her daughter, Raye Hodges (Ray) of Greenwood; grandsons Justin Hodges (Sally) of Madison, Channing Hodges (Michelle) of Greenwood, and Landon Hodges (Mallory) of Minter City; and great-grandchildren William and Hyatt Hodges, Emma, Hannah Grace, and Whitt Hodges, and Daisy Raye Hodges. She also leaves behind her beloved cat, Katy.

The family is deeply grateful to her faithful sitters—Lillie Swims, Diane Miller, and Beverly Jackson—as well as Dr. Kenneth Hines, AccentCare Home Health, and Riverview Nursing and Rehab for their compassionate care.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Stricklin King Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Glenwood Cemetery. The service will be officiated by Rev. Phillip Dearman. Stricklin King Funeral Home will be handling all arrangements for the family. 

Pallbearers will be Justin Hodges, Channing Hodges, Landon Hodges, William Hodges, Whitt Hodges, and Charlie Montgomery. 

 Ozzie Lampkin Coghlan, 96, of Holly Bluff, MS passed away in her home on Friday, September 12, 2025 surrounded by family. Born Christmas Day, December 25, 1928, to Ike and Callie Mae Lampkin. Her family has peace knowing that she will celebrate all future birthdays together with our Lord and Savor Jesus Christ in heaven.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at Holly Bluff Baptist Church from 10:00am until 11:00am followed immediately by a memorial service at 11:00am and internment at the Coghlan Family Cemetery. 

Her family knew her as a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great grandmother. She was also well known as a dedicated member of the Holly Bluff Baptist Church and served many years as school bus driver and cafeteria manager of Sharkey Issaquena Academy in Rolling Fork, MS.

She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers and two sisters; her husband, Floyd “Son” Henry Coghlan Sr.; her daughter, Deborah Carter; and twoo grandchildren.

She is survived by her three sons, Charles Graham (Kathy), Henry Coghlan (Yolanda), and Ike Coghlan (Angie); daughter, Sandra Coleman; 13 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; and two great great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Holly Bluff Baptist Church.

Stricklin King Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.