Elmer Dewayne “Boogar” Williams
Elmer Dewayne “Boogar” Williams, 49, passed away on May 30, 2025.
Boogar proudly served in the U.S. Army for 17 years, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant (E6). His service included deployments to Germany, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. He was awarded numerous honors, including the Bronze Star and Global War on Terrorism medals.
After an accident on base left him paralyzed, Boogar retired from the military, but his spirit remained unshaken. He continued to ride horses, team rope in rodeos, and craft beautiful leatherwork, which he shared with family and friends.
A member of Concord Baptist Church in Little Yazoo, Boogar was baptized at age 12 and lived his life devoted to faith, family, and service. He mentored many children and young adults and was known for his generosity, kindness, and unwavering willingness to help others.
Boogar cherished his Mississippi roots and spoke often of Sunday afternoons with his Pawpaw, Tommy Williams, enjoying Mamaw’s fried chicken after church. His Pawpaw was his lifelong role model.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Cannon Williams; sons, Michael and Joseph; mother, Shirley Williams; sisters, Linda Ann (Steve) Fleming and Melissa (Scott) Putnam; brothers, Thomas “Bubba” (Jennifer) Williams and Bobby Williams; nieces, Kayla Putnam, Caraline Walker, Nicole Crawford, Amee Bladacini; and nephews, Chris Rector, Brady Thomas Putnam, Rob Putnam, Dustin Williams, Lane Williams, Dalton Williams, Hunter Williams, Judd Williams, and Jeffrey Williams.
He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas “Shorty” Williams; brother, Jimmy Randall Williams; and grandparents, Thomas and Ethel Williams, Ida May Lindsey and Elmer Strawbridge.
Boogar also leaves behind many close friends from his military service and community—each one dearly loved.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saving Grace Animal Rescue or Martha Coker Green Houses in his memory.
Joan Drake Turner
Joan Drake Turner was born on August 4, 1925, in Griffin, GA to Richard Agustus Drake and Lucia Slade Drake. At nearly 100 years of age, she left us to be with her Lord on May 31, 2025. Joan graduated from Meredith College with a degree in Social Work and for many years was an elementary education teacher in Vicksburg, Indianola and Yazoo City and for over 60 years was the third grade Sunday School teacher. But her heart was in the 50 plus years of service to the Lord in the Christian Service Center at First Baptist Church of Yazoo City where she was a member for 68 years.
On September 10, 1949, Joan became the loving wife of Eugene “Gene” Harrold Turner. They were the parents of two children, Eugene “Tee” Harrold Turner (Cheryl) and Ann Turner Williams (Mike). Joan was the beloved grandmother of Miranda Drake Roark, Sara Kathryn Turner and Anna Turner Newman and the great grandmother of Mari Turner Roark and James Turner Newman. She was also the aunt to a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
Joan was preceded in death by her husband of 43 years, Eugene “Gene” Harrold Turner, her father, Richard Agustus Drake, her mother, Lucia Slade Drake, and her sisters, Lucia “Boopa” Drake Scarano, Barbara “Bob” Drake Bagwell and Ann Drake Hughes.
Joan will be immensely missed by her family and many friends as evidenced by the numerous testimonies recently shared about her life, many of which point to her devotion to the Lord. One thought in particular that well describes Joan’s life is “may everybody get to the end of their life and be able to reflect Christ like Joan did”.
Visitation will be from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM on June 4, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Yazoo City, MS. The funeral service will be at the church at 11:00 AM with a graveside service to follow at Glenwood Cemetery in Yazoo City all are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either the Muscular Dystrophy Association or the Huntington Disease Society of America.
Kenneth Lamar “Kenny” Martin
Kenneth Lamar “Kenny” Martin passed away peacefully on May 30, 2025. He was born in Yazoo City, Mississippi, on April 5, 1967, to Willie Lamar “Bill” and Martha Hicks Martin. Kenny graduated from Bentonia High School and went on to earn a degree in Marketing from Mississippi State University. The highlight of his career was his 19-year tenure at Nissan where he served in a variety of roles and built countless meaningful, long-lasting relationships with his coworkers.
Kenny loved the Lord, spending time with family, cruising in his Jeep, traveling, and enjoying good food. His never-ending jokes, adventurous spirit, quick wit, and infectious smile brought joy to everyone around him. He was proud of his roots and the community of people who helped shape him through every season of life. He leaves behind a legacy of love, tradition, and resilience.
Kenny was preceded in death by his mother, Martha, and his son, Taylor Lamar Martin. He is survived by his loving wife, Shauna Martin; their children, Taylor Poole (Jordan), McKenzie Cryer (Christian), and Wesley Peacock; his father, Bill; his sister, Kimberly Martin Crockett (Lee); his niece, Claire Crockett Faught (Jack); his nephew, Cory Martin Crockett; his great-nephews, Jack Nelson Faught and Haddon Lee Faught; his aunt, Shirley Hicks Neely and many other family members who were deeply loved by Kenny.
Visitation and service will be held at Oak Grove Baptist Church on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. Visitation will be from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM, with the service immediately following. All who knew or loved him are welcome to attend. Stricklin King Funeral Home has been entrusted with all arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in memory of Kenny’s son, Taylor Martin, to the Taylor Martin Scholarship fund at Tri-County Academy. Donations can be made online via PayPal (@taylormartinscholarship) or by check sent to the school at 400 Cox Ferry Road, Flora, MS 39071. Please write "For the Taylor Martin Scholarship Fund" in the comments or on the memo line for all donations.
Barbara Daves Arnold
Barbara Daves Arnold passed away on May 28, 2025. She was born on Aug. 21, 1935 to Robert Ward and Willie Daves and grew up in Greenwood. Later, she married David Walker Arnold and had one daughter, Janet.
Barbara attended the University of Mississippi, where she attained a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. While at Ole Miss, she was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. She was also included in Alpha Lamda Delta Freshman Honor Society and Alpha Epsilon Delta Pre-med Honor Society. She would also earn a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology from the University of Tennessee in Memphis.
Known as an outstanding high school science teacher during her years at Yazoo City High School and Manchester Academy, Barbara was committed to teaching and improving the lives of young people. During her retirement, she assisted dozens of students as an unpaid tutor or homeschool teacher. Her students ranged from elementary to college level.
Honors for Barbara included her being named Physics Teacher of the Year in 1975 by the Mississippi Association of Physicists. She was STAR Teacher five times at Manchester Academy and was inducted into the Hall of Fame at Manchester in 2013.
In addition to her concern for education, Barbara was dedicated to animal rescue and adoption. She took a hands-on approach locally and supported national, state-wide and regional animal rescue adoption organizations.
Among other services performed by Barbara were time spent on the University Foundation Board of Directors, the Alumni Association Board of Directors and Executive Committee, president of the Board of Education Alumni Chapter and member of the Board of Directors, and the School of Engineering Advisory Board. She was a member of the vestry and senior worker at Trinity Episcopal Church and served for more than 30 years on the Board of the Yazoo Library Association.
Memorial gifts may be sent to First Methodist Church of Yazoo City, the Animal Rescue League, the University of Mississippi Foundation or the charity of your choice.
Rana Singleton Hood
Rana Singleton Hood, a beacon of warmth and friendship, departed this life on Monday, May 26, 2025, in Brandon, Mississippi, at the age of 57. Born on January 18, 1968, Rana lived her years with an outgoing spirit that touched all who knew her. She was a loyal friend and a cherished coworker, always ready with a kind word or a helping hand. Her vibrant personality and generous heart will be deeply missed.
Rana’s memory will be forever treasured by those she leaves behind: her loving children, Kelsey Wadford (Danny Johnson), Taylor (Braydon Lewis), and Rhett Hood; her precious grandson, Zayden; her devoted parents, Jimmie Lee and Bo Moore; partner, Dickie Layton; brother, Tim Singleton (Meka); sisters, Mary Frances Moore and Misty Willingham (Rodney); and bountiful of nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth Singleton, and her brother, James DeWitt Singleton.
Visitation will be held from 9:30am-11am with a service directly following at Stricklin King in Yazoo City, MS. All arrangements are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home.
2 Timothy 4:7 "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
Julian Wallace Crawford, III
September 18, 1951 – May 22, 2025
Julian Wallace Crawford III, 73, of Louise, MS, walked joyfully into the arms of his Lord on May 22, 2025. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and servant leader, Julian lived a life marked by faith, curiosity, and a zest for life.
Born on September 18, 1951, in Jackson, Mississippi, Julian built a remarkable 50-year career in the agriculture industry as a respected entomologist. He also faithfully served the town of Louise as an alderman, always seeking ways to support and uplift his community.
Later in life, Julian discovered his greatest passion—ministry. A gifted preacher and faithful teacher, he could be found on Sundays in the pulpit at Louise and Silver City Methodist Churches or leading Bible studies in his home. He was deeply involved in Kairos Prison Ministry and the Walk to Emmaus, offering encouragement and hope to those often forgotten.
A proud graduate of Mississippi State University, Julian was a lifelong learner whose curiosity never waned. He was an Eagle Scout, a member of Kappa Alpha Order, and a true friend to everyone he met. With a larger-than-life personality, Julian had a laugh that filled the room and a smile that could brighten any day.
To his grandchildren, he was "Poppie” the loudest fan at Manchester Academy on Friday nights and the gentle gardener planting daffodils with joy. He shared 47 beautiful years with his beloved wife, Carol Renfroe Crawford, and together they built a legacy of love, laughter, and faith.
Julian was preceded in death by his father, Julian Wallace Crawford Jr.
He is survived by his mother, Betty Montgomery Crawford of Holly Bluff, MS; wife, Carol; his siblings, Wilkins “Wix” Montgomery Crawford (Bobbi) of Holly Bluff and David Fulton Crawford (Susan) of Tok, AK; his children, Mary Love Crawford Johnson of Louise, MS, Michael Aaron Crawford (Anna) of Brandon, MS, and Julian Alexander “Alex” Crawford (Meredith) of Holly Bluff; and his treasured grandchildren, Landon Tyler Johnson, Avery Rose Crawford, Adelaide Amey Crawford, and Emerson James Crawford; and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews. He was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his grandson, Beau Alexander Crawford, this summer.
A visitation and memorial service will be held Friday, May 30, at Parkview Church of God in Yazoo City, MS. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. with the service to follow at 11:00 a.m. All arrangements have under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home.
In honor of Julian’s legacy of faith and service, memorials may be made to Louise Methodist Church and Kairos Prison Ministry.
Charles Adrian Jordan, Sr.
CHARLES ADRIAN JORDAN, SR. was born at home in Carter, Mississippi on May 13, 1926. He was the son of Edward Thomas Jordan, Sr. and Marie Hegman Jordan. He died on May 15, 2025 at home at age 99 with family by his side. He was preceded in death by his wife of 74 years, Mabel Norman Jordan, parents and siblings, Edward Thomas Jordan, Ir. (Ruth), Bernard Albert Jordan (Katherine), John William Jordan (Mary Catherine) and Florine Jordan McKinney. He was also preceded in death by his son, Charles Adrian Jordan, Jr daughters Susan Marie Jordan and Marie Jordan Pepper, granddaughter Liza Jordan Vaughn, grandson Justin Waites Dubois and son-in-law Eugene Earl Pepper.
Charlie is survived by his sister-in-law Rosamond Norman Humphreys of Yazoo City, MS, daughter-in-law Jane Power Jordan of Atlanta, GA, sons Thomas William Jordan (Linda) of Brandon, MS, Edward Thomas Jordan IlI (Beth) of Carter, MS, Joseph "Jay" Patrick Jordan of Madison, MS, daughters Kathleen Cecelia Dixon (Jimmy) of Carter MS, Juanita "Neetsie" Jordan Hutchens (Dr. Zachary) of Centerville, TN, and Margaret Ruth Jordan Love (Keaton) of Carter, MS. He is also survived by 23 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Charlie graduated from St. Clara Academy in Yazoo City, worked at the family farm store for one year, was crafted and sent to Camp Shelby for training then to Tipton, GA in 1944. They suspended flight training and he served as an MP there. He was discharged to Shreveport, LA in November 1945. He was a lifetime member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, where he served as an altar boy, lector, communicant and usher.
He married Mabel Harris Norman on June 12, 1944 and they moved into their new home in Carter. MS on Christmas Day 1945 across from the home where he grew up. He resumed work at the family farm store. E.T. Jordan & Sons, Planters and Merchants, and retired at the age of 65. He continued to live in Carter until his death on May 15, 2025, just two days after his 99th birthday celebration with his family.
Funeral services for Charlie will be Monday May 19, 2025 at 11:00 am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Yazoo City. Visitation will be from 10-11 prior to the service with interment in Glenwood Cemetery. Stricklin-King Funeral Home will handle the arrangements.
Memorial gifts may be made to St, Mary’s Catholic Church, P.O. Box 27, Yazoo City, MS 39194
Winnie Grace Thompson Winstead
Winnie Grace Thompson Winstead, 90, of Yazoo City, Mississippi, passed away peacefully at her home and went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
Grace was born on May 25, 1934, in Carroll County, Mississippi to the late George Robert Thompson, Sr. and the late Sadie Osborne Thompson. She was one of four children and the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thompson.
On July 24, 1953, Grace married her sweetheart, Willie Howard “Buddy” Winstead in Holmes County, Mississippi. Together, Buddy and Grace had four children: Toni Lynn, Howard Glynn, Robert Earl, and Tracy Dean.
Grace was a seamstress with Roberts Manufacturing in Yazoo City, Mississippi, where she retired in 1996. A proud member of the Christian faith, she was a longtime member of Eden Baptist Church in Eden, Mississippi, where she made many lifelong friends in love and Christ. In her spare time, she also loved to read, work in her garden, and spend time with her family and friends.
Grace is preceded in death by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. George Robert Thompson, Sr;, her siblings, George Robert Thompson, Jr., Sarah Elizabeth Adcock, and Chester Eugene Thompson; and her loving husband of 53 years, Willie Howard Winstead.
Grace is survived by her four children, Toni (Jimmy) Mowdy of Canton, Mississippi; Howard Winstead of Tinsley, Mississippi; Robert (Debra) Winstead of Pitkin, Louisiana; and Tracy (Karen) Winstead of Yazoo City, Mississippi, as well as 10 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Visitation for Winnie Grace Winstead will be held at Stricklin-King Funeral Home in Yazoo City on Friday, May 16, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Stricklin-King Funeral Home on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Bro. Albert Grey officiating. Graveside services will immediately follow at Coxburg Cemetery in Coxburg, Mississippi.
Pallbearers are Howard Winstead, Tracy Winstead, Justin Mowdy, Ethan Mancil, Baron Mancil, and Triton Mancil. Stricklin-King is handling all funeral arrangements for Winnie Grace Winstead.
Psalm 23 (KJV): “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
Preston James Hawthorne
Preston James Hawthorne, 12, of Bentonia, Mississippi, went to be with Jesus on May 12, 2025.
Preston was born on July 16, 2012, in Flowood, Mississippi.
Preston is survived by his loving parents, Lisa and William Willcutt of Bentonia, MS and Matt and Mary Hawthorne of Brandon, MS; siblings, Annelise Hawthorne, Parker Hawthorne, Nathan Willcutt, and Rune Westerberg. He is also survived by grandparents who adored him, Bud and Dorothy Parker of Bentonia, MS and Tom and Rita Hawthorne of Madison, MS; an uncle, Ben(Allison) Hawthorne; cousins, Justin (Courtney) Hawthorne, Rawson Hawthorne, Brayden Hawthorne, Christian Hawthorne, and Noah Hawthorne. Preston also leaves behind a host of cousins, great aunts and great uncles, friends, and special aunts who all loved him.
Preston was a 7th grade student at Yazoo County Middle School, where he had friends and teachers who looked forward to seeing his bright smile and bright future ahead of him. He attended elementary school at Bentonia Gibbs. He loved to attend church at Central Baptist Church. Preston looked forward to joining the youth at the church anytime he could, especially on Wednesday nights. The family takes great comfort in knowing he loved the Lord and was a part of a loving church. Bro. Scotty was a true mentor and helped to build Preston’s relationship with the Lord.
Preston loved all things outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping with family. He especially loved his dirt bike and 4-wheeler. At such a young age, Preston was very mechanically inclined and would often take apart his dirt bike and 4-wheeler to work on it. Preston was a true country boy who loved to wear a cowboy hat and spend his time outside. Preston also loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them doing all things that were fun and exciting. He spent spring breaks and summers going to the beach and running from the waves, splashing in the creek, creating unique artwork, and waking up each morning with such energy that the world knew Preston was awake.
Fall and winter brought about two of Preston’s favorite holidays, Halloween and Christmas. Preston always had the best Halloween costume and loved to go to any trunk or treat or hayride that was going on. On Christmas, Preston was the first to rise in excitement.
Preston was the light of his parents' life. He will be forever remembered by family and friends for his infectious smile, funny stories, sweet hugs, bringing joy and laughter to those who were lucky enough to be around him, and his quick wit. Preston’s memory and charming personality will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, near and far.
Services for Preston are Friday, May 16, 2025, at Central Baptist Church in Bentonia, MS. Visitation begins at 9:30am and ends at 11:00 am. The services will begin at 11:00 am. There will not be a graveside service. Stricklin King Funeral Home has been entrusted with all arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, if anyone would like to donate in his memory, please send donations to Central Baptist Church Youth or Building Fund.
Carol Carter McMaster
With hearts full of love and gratitude for a life well lived, the family of Carol Carter McMaster announces her peaceful passing on May 8, 2025, at the age of 86.
Carol’s greatest joy came from being with her family. Whether hosting gatherings, attending milestones, or simply enjoying the company of loved ones, she found deep happiness in the connections she nurtured. Her adventurous spirit also led her to travel the world later in life, exploring new places and cultures with curiosity and enthusiasm.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Connie Lee McMaster, and her dear son, Ronald Clark McMaster.
Carol is survived by her loving daughter, Amy Heinecke (Greg); daughter-in-law, Kim McMaster; grandchildren, Ron (Laura) McMaster, Emily (Chris) Poole, Anna (Will) Scarborough, Caroline Heinecke, Hayes Heinecke and 9 great-grandchildren.
A service to honor her life and memory will be held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 11 am at Fletcher’s Chapel Church in Yazoo City, Mississippi, with burial to immediately follow in the church cemetery. Stricklin King Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Pallbearers will be Chris Poole, Will Scarborough, Hayes Heinecke, Will McMaster, Jack Poole and Sam Poole. Reverend Bill Poole will be officiating.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
Virginia Smith
Virginia Smith, 85, of Bentonia, passed away on May 5, 2025 at the University Medical Center.
Survivors include her three sons, David (Dana) Peden of Bentonia, Joseph Warren of Minter City and Timothy Peden of Bentonia; brother, Miles Peden of Flora; sister, Betty Howell of Flora; nine grandchildren; and a host of great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held on May 10 at Franklin Baptist Church at noon under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home.
Joyce C. Williams
Joyce Williams, 85, of Yazoo City, passed away on April 15, 2025 at her residence. Joyce was born in Star City, AR on August 8, 1939. She is proceeded in death by her parents, Luther Frank Cooper and Mary Emma Burton.
Survivors include her daughter, Kim (Michael) Woods of Yazoo City; five grandchildren; and 18 great grandchildren.
Stricklin King Funeral Home will handle the funeral arrangements for this family.
William (Bill) Harold Ertle, Jr.
William (Bill) Harold Ertle, Jr., 62, of Yazoo County, passed away on May 3, 2025. Known for his hard work, big heart, and love of the outdoors, Bill leaves behind a legacy of dedication, craftsmanship, and deep-rooted family values.
He is survived by his two daughters, Kristi Jenkins (Mitchell) of Yazoo, MS, and Regina Young (Casey) of Raymond, MS; two sisters, Heather Terry (Marty) of Kosciusko, MS, and Erika Ertle of Richland, MS; and two beloved grandchildren, Kaylee Ertle and Brendon Jenkins.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William and Charlotte Ertle; his brother, Brett Ertle; and his daughter, Jennifer Lynn Ertle.
A hardworking man, Bill worked for Yazoo County Road Maintenance. He was also a master carpenter, specializing in cabinetry, where his skilled hands and eye for detail brought beauty into the homes of many. Whether he was hunting, fishing, or simply spending time outdoors, Bill found peace in nature and was rarely still for long.
Known for his warm personality and sense of humor, Bill never met a stranger. He left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered and will be remembered for his easygoing spirit.
A visitation will be held at Stricklin-King Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., with a service to follow. Stricklin King Funeral Home has been entrusted with all arrangements.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.
Bhanu Vanmali
Bhanu Vanmali, 54, of Yazoo City, passed away on April 24, 2025 at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson.
Survivors include his wife, Bela Vanmali of Yazoo City; daughter, Meera Vanmali of Yazoo City; son, Veer Vanmali of Yazoo City; and brother, Allraj Vanmali of Vicksburg.
Funeral services will be held on April 28 at 10 a.m. at the Stricklin King Funeral Home. Stricklin KIng handled all arrangements for the family.
Jerry Luther Creel
Jerry Luther Creel, 67, passed away on April 19, 2025 Baptist Hospital in Jackson. Jerry, who lived in Clinton, was born on Aug. 9, 1957 in Texarkana, Ark.
He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Carlton and Sybil Creel; and brother, Jack.
Survivors include his four brothers, Jimmy (Bobbie) Creel, Carey (Paula) Creel, Randy (Gwen) Creel and Robin (Tina) Creel; longtime friend and employer, Dave Riley; and several nieces and nephews.
Jerry was a member of Midway Baptist Church in Jackson. He enjoyed playing softball, basketball and pool.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 24, at Scotland Baptist Church at 2 p.m. with Dr. Earl Reyer officiating with an eulogy provided by Jamie Creel. Visitation will be held from noon until the service. Arrangements are being handled by Stricklin King Funeral Home.
Pallbearers will be Chris Creel, Cooper Creel, Chandler Creel, Canon Creel, Hayes Creel, Dave Morgan, Cruz Morgan and Isaac Morgan.
Jerry Layton Pierce
Our beloved Jerry Layton Pierce passed away peacefully on April 19, 2025, at the age of 75.
He is survived by his son, Chris (Clair) Pierce; mother, Faye Pierce; grandsons, Layton Pierce, Brett Pierce and Vaden Pierce, all of Benton; sister, Beverly (Monte) Luehlfing of Jackson; brother, Keith Pierce; sisters-in-law, Nanci (Pierce) Boatner of Vaughan, Annette Batson and Barbara Pierce, both of Benton; brother-in-law, Ralph Faulkenberry of Tulsa, OK; and several nieces and nephews.
He was born in Yazoo City on June 7, 1949. His childhood in Benton instilled a lifelong passion for farming, the family’s country store, hunting, antiques, and later running the Big Store in Ebenezer.
He was preceded in death by his wife ,Donna F. Pierce of 50 years; and father, Clarence Layton Pierce.
Pallbearers will be Chris Pierce, Layton Pierce, Brett Pierce, Vaden Pierce, Ralph Faulkenberry and Grady Ables.
Honorary pallbearers will be Keith Pierce, Pierce Boatner, Monte Luehlfing, Blake Luehlfing, Chad Feiber, Eli Feiber, Brandon Batson, Bill Harris, Bryan Ross, Paul Campbell, Berry May, and Anthony Brown.
The visitation will be held at Stricklin King Funeral Home on Thursday April 24, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., followed by graveside service officiated by Reverend Mitchell Long at Shiloh Cemetery. All friends and family are welcome. Stricklin King Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
May W. Gary
May W. Gary, 90, of Brandon, passed away on April 5, 2025.
Survivors include daughter, Patsy Jo Gary of Florence; son, Ben (Glenda) Gary of Yazoo City; one grandchild; and two great grandchildren.
Funeral services were held on April 10 at 10 a.m. at the Stricklin King Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed at Fletcher's Chapel Cemetery in Yazoo County. Stricklin King has been entrusted with all arrangements.
Leroy Vester Counts
Leroy Vester Counts, age 85 of Benton, MS passed away Friday, April 12, 2024 in Florence, MS. He was born September 24, 1939 to the late Shell and Eula Counts.
Leroy spent his life providing for his family and creating laughter wherever he went. As a truck driver for nearly 40 years, he experienced life through the driver’s seat, taking a Moonpie and an RC Cola everywhere he went. He saw the wonders of the West which further instilled in him a deep love for his country.
In retirement, Leroy loved fishing, garaging, and watching Ole Miss Football. He spent his weekends waking early to beat everyone to the sales, arriving back at the house in time for the Ole Miss game, and then loading up the morning haul to sell at the local auction. Even with this strict schedule, Leroy always made time for his grandchildren. He would let them tag along to the sales and teach them the art the deal firsthand. No matter what he was doing, he had a smile on his face and brought laughter to those around him.
Leroy is preceded in death by his first wife Sylvia Yvonne Counts, his second wife Barbara Jean Counts, two of his sons Mike and Jeff, two of his brothers Donald and Shelby, and two of his sisters Doris and Opal.
He is survived by his daughters, Penny (Marty) Turbeville and Michelle (Brent) Lackey; his sons, Gerald (Sonya) Counts and Neal (Tina) Stringfellow; his brother David; his sister Bibb; thirteen grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be held 10:00 A.M. – 11:30 A.M. Tuesday, April 15 at Stricklin King Funeral Home (718 Calhoun Ave) in Yazoo City, MS. The memorial service will be held 12:00 P.M. – 1:00 P.M at Midway Baptist Church (10967 Eden Midway Rd) in Benton with burial thereafter in the church cemetery. Stricklin King Funeral Home has been entrusted with all arrangements.