Catherine Marie Nail

David H. Smith, 72, of Yazoo County, passed away on August 16, 2025.

Preceded in death by parents, Nathan Smith and Marie Smith, W.L. McFarland and Sadie McFarland; sisters, Bettie Williams and Peggy Saxton; and brother Wayne Smith.

Survivors include his daughter, Whitney Smith Roberts (Brandon) of Bentonia; stepdaughter, Mandy Worthy-Catlett (Charles) of Bentonia; brothers, James Harber (Lois), Marvin Smith, Dede Smith (Sheri), Tommy Harber all from Yazoo County; two sisters, Jerri Thompson (Duane) of Madison, and Trish Porter of Yazoo County; sister-in-law, Peggy Smith of Yazoo County; grandchildren, Sadee Jean Roberts and Bo Patrick Roberts, Peyton Thrasher, and John Weston Catlett; and host of nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025,  from 12:30 p.m.-2:00 p.m. at Stricklin King Funeral Home who has been entrusted with all arrangements. 

 Timothy Turner, 52, of Yazoo County, passed away on Aug. 11, 2025, at Baldwin Nursing Home.

Survivors include his mother, Nancy Uthoff of Yazoo City; two daughters, Miranda Turner and Frankie Turner, both of Yazoo City; son, Timothy Turner III of Yazoo City; his sister, Tammie Taggart of Yazoo City; two grandchildren; nieces and nephews, Will Turner, Brandy Wigney, Britney Wigney and Parrish Harris; and several great nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Aug. 16 at 2 p.m. at the Stricklin King Funeral Home Chapel.

  Carl “Jay” Jackson Hicks, Jr. passed away peacefully at his home in Benton on August 5, 2025, at the age of 64. 

Carl was born on May 6, 1961, to Carl Hicks Sr. and Norma Richardson. He was a dedicated member of Black Jack Baptist Church and was employed at CF Industries for 45 years. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Brenda Worbington Hicks; sisters, Sharon Williams and Donna Dickerson; and brother, D.D. Dickerson. 

Carl is survived by his wife, Tina Hicks; stepmother, Carolyn Hicks; daughters, Stacey Botha (Darren) of Yazoo City, Maggie Milnick (Michael) of Madison, and Carly Hicks of Benton; stepson, Brian Stephenson (Elizabeth) of Madison; stepdaughter, Claire Stephenson of Wesson; sisters, Betty Hollowell (Stan) of Madison and Jackie Kish (Rob) of Cordova, TN; brothers, Joe Dan Dickerson (Hope) of Madison and David Dickerson of Florida; 12 grandchildren; a host of nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Sebastian. 

Pallbearers are Brendan Thrasher, John Kinch Wilson, Will Love, Jay Nichols, David England, and John Michael Duell. Honorary pallbearers are Bobby Barton, Joe Dan Dickerson, Stan Hollowell, Matt Cox, and Darrin Threet. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at Black Jack Baptist Church from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with the funeral service to follow. Burial will take place at Black Jack Baptist Church. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Webster Animal Shelter, Black Jack Baptist Church, or the American Cancer Society.

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants.” Psalm 116:15

Robert (Bob) Heard Cato, a faithful servant of the Lord, passed away on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at the age of 86. 

An avid farmer, Bob loved driving a tractor. He left the earth doing that very thing as he passed away on his riding lawnmower, mowing the yard. Medically it will be said that he died of a heart attack, but anyone that knew Bob knows that his heart really stopped beating when the love of his life, Marie, passed away last summer. He never was the same after her passing, and God has finally reunited them in heaven. 

Bob was born in Winona, Mississippi, in his grandparents’ home on September 17, 1938. Bob's parents were Henry Heard Cato and Annie (Ann) May Grace Cato. He was raised in Jackson, Mississippi. His dad was in the Army until he had to resign due to health reasons. His family moved to various states with his father’s frequent relocation as a naval base designer. After World War II, they moved to New Albany and lived with Bob’s grandparents. Bob’s brother, Tommy, was born in New Albany four years from the day Bob was born. Bob went to school in New Albany through the 2nd grade and then the family moved to Jackson. In Jackson, Bob’s sister Ann Grace was born in 1950. Bob attended Clinton Elementary, Bailey Junior High, Central High and he graduated from Murrah High School in 1956. 

Growing up, Bob was nicknamed “wormy Bob Cato” because he was so small. That changed during high school, and during his senior year of high school, Bob was named Most Athletic. He was offered athletic scholarships to several small colleges but decided to attend Mississippi State University and pursue a degree in Civil Engineering. He was a member of the Gamma Upsilon Chapter of Sigma Chi fraternity where his future wife, Marie Harlow Clark, was named Sigma Chi Sweetheart. Bob lived in the Old Main dormitory during his freshman and sophomore year. This was the same dorm that his father lived in 50 years earlier than Bob. 

Marie and Bob were married on August 8, 1959, at First Presbyterian Church in Yazoo City. They moved to West Point, Mississippi, to finish his college education at Mississippi State while Marie taught high school English. One of Bob’s favorite stories to tell from those years was his adventures hitch-hiking to and from Starkville while he finished his degree. Bob completed his Civil Engineering degree from Mississippi State in 1960. 

After Bob’s graduation, the couple moved to Jackson, where Bob worked for BellSouth. In 1961, they relocated to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where Bob was stationed in the Army. Their first son, Robert Clark Cato, was born later that year. In 1963, they moved back to Yazoo City, where Bob began farming with his father-in-law, Will Clark. Bob and Marie were blessed with two more sons: Robert Heard Cato III, who was born in 1963 and tragically died at birth, and Kinch Henry Cato, who was born in 1969.

When Bob moved to Yazoo City in 1963, he knew nothing about farming. His father-in-law, William (Will) Thomas Clark, and other local farmers helped train him to change from being an engineer to a farmer. Bob fell in love with farming and was constantly working to improve his farming knowledge. He served on many agricultural and local boards including the following: Staplcotn, Delta Council (Vice-President), founding member and Vice-President of Yazoo Planters Gin, Yazoo County Farm Service Agency, Mississippi Boll Weevil Association, Yazoo County Soil & Water Conservation, Yazoo County Farm Bureau (President), and Manchester Academy.

Bob loved the Lord, and he faithfully served Him in the churches where he was a member, as well as the many ministries he volunteered his time to such as Gideons International. He taught Sunday School and led Bible studies at First Presbyterian Church and later at Second Presbyterian, which he helped start. He served as an elder in both churches, and he also helped start Covenant Christian School. He also served in the Presbyterian Church in America Presbytery. Bob was a true servant of the Lord.

Bob was a tremendously hard worker and would take pride in “outworking” everyone. His hard work, military background, and leadership skills earned him the nickname: “The General.” He was a committed Christian, loving, generous, and faithful husband, father, and grandfather, and friend to many.

Bob is preceded in death by his wife, Marie Cato, his parents, Henry and Ann Cato, his brother, Tommy Cato, his sister-in-law, Hy Harrell, and his son, Robert. He is survived by his sister, Ann Price (Bill); his son Clark (Christine) and his children Causey, Sterling (Ben Parker), Stewart, Caleb, and Elijah (son Worley); his son Kinch (Audra) and their children Robert and Helen; sister-in-law JoAnne Forbes (Marlin); and his brother-in-law Guy Harrell.

Memorial donations may be made to Reformed Theological Seminary, 4268 I-55 N,

Jackson, MS 39211, Fort Worth Christian School, 6200 Holiday Lane, North Richland Hills, TX 76180, or the charity of your choice.

A visitation will be held on Friday, August 1, from 5:00-7:00 pm at Stricklin-King Funeral Home in Yazoo City. The following day on August 2, a visitation will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Yazoo City starting at 9:00 a.m. followed by a celebration of life service at 11:00 a.m. Immediately following this service, close friends and family are invited to the graveside service at Glenwood Cemetery and lunch at Second Presbyterian Church. Stricklin King Funeral Home has been entrusted with all arrangements. 

 Robert Mitchell Saxton II, known as Rob, 48, passed away on July 20, 2025.

Rob's professional and career achievements were R&L Catering and Rob's Steak House. His proudest accomplishments were his children and grandchildren. He never failed to brag, post or talk about them. He had the biggest personality you could ever meet. He was one-of-a-kind. He was the goofiest, strongest, determined, big-hearted and most passionate person even through the hard times.

He impacted so many different people. He never failed to tell people to pray, have faith and lean on God. He always helped anyone, no matter the circumstance. He always made sure to put a smile on their face. His hobbies included fishing, hunting, cooking and spending time with family and friends.

His family included his wife, Leslie Saxton; father, Mitchell Saxton; mother and stepfather, Kenny and Sue Vandevender; his children, Hanna Saxton, Slayten Saxton, Ashton Saxton and Breanna Saxton; stepchildren, Robyn May, Maddie Campbell and Taylor May; grandchildren, Paizlee Thornton, Havanna Adcock, Coker Ridge Stephens; step-grandchildren, Silas Campbell, Eli Campbell and Khalili Taylor; and siblings, Niki WhitKop, Heather Smith and Peyton Saxton; stepsister, and Haley Vandevender;

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 23, at 2 p.m. at Parkview Church. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 22, from 5-7 p.m. at the Stricklin King Funeral Home Chapel and on Wednesday, July 23, from 12:30 p.m. until the funeral service at the church. The family has entrusted all arrangements to Stricklin King Funeral Home.

Deborah Carol Fant Richardson Creel 

February 7, 1959 - July 17, 2025 

Deborah Carol Fant Richardson Creel, age 66, of Flora, Mississippi, passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 17, 2025. 

Deborah was born on February 7, 1959, in Jackson, Mississippi. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. For the past 3 years, she 

shared her life with the love of her life. Timothy Creel, building a home filled with Iove, laughter, and unforgettable memories. 

She is survived by husband Timothy Creel, son Nathan T Richardson ( Stephanie); daughter, Alicia R Abernathy; brother, Randall Fant; and sister Patricia McCausley (Don). She is preceded in death by her parents Wesley R Fant and Mildred M Dowell Fant; son, William Craig 

Richardson (Shaunesti). 

Deborah leaves behind a lasting legacy in her seven grandchildren; ­Alexis A. Turner, Austin Hardacre, Jennifer L. Abernathy, John Abernathy, III, Cara Richardson, Addie Grace Richardson, and Ethan A. Richardson; and nine great-grandchildren. She is also remembered with love by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great, great ­nieces and nephews. 

Deborah was a true people person, known for her kind heart, harp wit. and ability to make anyone feel like family. She was loved by everyone she met. For over 40 years, she served others with a smile as a waitress in restaurants such as Waffle House, Howell's Pizza Place, and Bill's. Her dedication, warmth, and work ethic left a lasting impression on countless customers and coworkers throughout the years. Deborah was a proud member of Franklin Baptist church in Flora, MS.

A funeral service to celebrate Deborah's life will be held on Saturday, July 19 2025, at 

Scotland Baptist Church, located at 5617 Scotland Road, Bentonia, MS 9040. Visitation will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11 :00 a.m. followed by service at 11 :00 a.m., officiated by Bro. Junior Strickland. All arrangement are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home. 

Pallbearers: Nathan Richardson, Joey Mason, Ethan Richardson, Corby Pace, John John Abernathy, Zach Kircher 

Honorary Pallbearer : Russell Fant, Kevin Caldwell 

Deborah 's memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. he will be deeply missed. 

 Peggy Fraiser, 81, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025, at home in Lake Charles, Louisiana, surrounded by her loving family.

Peggy was born in Neshoba County, Mississippi, and spent most of her life in Yazoo City, Mississippi. Dedicated to her career in banking, she was known for her work ethic, warmth, and care for her community.

Peggy was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 58 years, Gerald Paul “Jerry” Fraiser; her parents, Julian Preston and Sula Kate Ferguson; and her brothers, Pruit Ferguson and Doyle Ferguson.

She is survived by her two sons, Paul Douglas “Doug” Fraiser (Mee Mee) and Gerald Christian “Chris” Fraiser; her cherished granddaughters, Hannah Fraiser and Shelby Fraiser; and her siblings, Marvaline Gurney, Patty Wiggins, June Crow, and Terry Ferguson.

Peggy had a deep love for reading, a steady cup of coffee always nearby, and a special fondness for online shopping. Her humor, strength, and kindness left a lasting mark on those who knew her.

Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m., on July 18, 2025, at First Methodist Church in Yazoo City, Mississippi. All arrangements will be under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home. 

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of Brighten Bridge Hospice for their compassionate care, with special appreciation to Veronica Sheridan, Jessica Percle, Kathy Dammon, and Brandy Summerlin.

 Terri Richardson Goodman, 55, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025.

She was born on May 18, 1970, in Yazoo City, Mississippi.

After graduating from Manchester Academy in 1988, she received her Bachelor of Business Administration from Delta State University and later became a Registered Nurse. She married Oscar Gray Goodman Jr. on February 04, 1995, where she started a beautiful family.

Terri was a kind-hearted, genuine woman. She was strong-willed, quick-witted, caring, and generous. Terri was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She adored her children and grandchildren. She was the “go to” person for so many people involved with her and her children’s lives. Terri was always ready, with arms wide open, to provide guidance and support to anyone who needed her in that moment. She truly was a “second mom” to so many people when they needed one.

Terri’s favorite title and honor in life was being “Yaya” to her grandbaby Ellis. Terri loved a sunny beach day, riding on the lake, and walking in the creek to look for arrowheads as her Daddy did before her. She was a one-of-a-kind lady, who lived her life unapologetically – always. Terri will be missed more than words can express by all of those who were fortunate enough to know or love her.

Terri is survived by her husband of 30 years, Oscar Gray Goodman Jr.; their children Jordan Johnson (Samuel) and grandson Samuel ‘Ellis’ Johnson of Yazoo City, Sarah Selby Goodman of Biloxi, and stepdaughter, Elizabeth Anne Goodman Williams of Biloxi; grandchildren, Katelan King, Charles Williams III, and Karley Williams; and a stepson Oscar Gray Goodman III (Tatum) of Jackson,; grandsons, Herrin Goodman and Wade Goodman; her sisters, Toni Stewart of Canton and Teresa Baker of Tupelo, along with her mother Sharon Richardson Johnson (Charles) of Madison. She is also survived by countless nieces, nephews, and their children, all who she loved deeply. Along with many dear friends and her children’s friends who looked to her as a mother figure and friend.

She was preceded in death by her father, Walter Wilson Richardson Jr. of Yazoo City and her brother-in-law, John Roger Stewart of Canton.

A service in honor of Terri’s life will be held on July 12th at Fletchers Chapel (5675 Fletcher's Chapel Rd., Yazoo City, MS 39194) – visitation from 9am-11am, funeral starting at 11am and burial to follow at the Fletcher’s Chapel cemetery. Stricklin King Funeral Home will be entrusted with the arrangements.

Serving as pallbearers are Gray Goodman III, Herrin Goodman, Simpson Goodman, Eric Patterson, Jason Patterson and Aaron Kennedy.

Honorary pallbearers include William Baker, John Jacob Stewart, Charles Williams III, Wade Goodman, Daniel Goodman, and Peyton Wood.

There will be a luncheon following the burial in Bentonia at 5426 Hwy 433 West, Bentonia, MS 39040.

  Philip Joseph Bergeron, born July 15, 1976, in Thibodaux, Louisiana, was called to his eternal home with our Lord on June 25, 2025, in Jackson, Mississippi.

Philip was a devoted husband, father, and friend who brought light and love to everyone around him. A beloved member of his community, he was known for his generosity, humility, and unwavering kindness. Coaching baseball and softball were more than a pastime; it was a calling through which he impacted the lives of hundreds of young athletes. He led with compassion, patience, and joy always striving to uplift those around him.

A devout Catholic, Philip’s faith guided every part of his life. He lived out his beliefs through service, prayer, and a deep trust in God. Whether in his parish or on the ball field, he shared Christ’s love through his actions. 

Philip also loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. Some of his most cherished moments were spent on trips with his dad, Guy, his brother, Mark, and his sons, Justin, Brian, and Mason. There were many hunting trips to Kansas and Coxburg spent full of laughter, storytelling, and lasting memories with family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his beloved son, Jonathan; his grandparents, Rene Sr. and Flossie Bergeron, Irvin Sr. and Mercedes Bourgeois, Earl and Gladys Coleman, and Billy Sr. and Erbie Lee Bell.

He is survived by his loving wife, Amy, and their six children: Kayla, Ashley, Nicole, Justin, Brian, and Mason. He is also survived by his parents, Guy and Kate Bergeron; his brother Mark (Sandy) Bergeron; and sisters, Amy (David) Briscoe, Mary (Joshua) Keller, and Anne (Chris) Alley. 

Philip will also be deeply missed by his in-laws, Billy and JoAnn Bell: his brothers and sisters-in-law: Trey (Philecia) Bell, Mandy (Daniel) Malone, and Tracy (Jeffery) Patridge; and his 25 beloved nieces and nephews. 

Pallbearers are Justin Bergeron, Brian Bergeron, Mason Bergeron, Mark Bergeron, Stephen Lirette, Jeffery Patridge, Daniel Malone, and Ryan Boyer.

Honorary Pallbearers are Josh Keller, David Briscoe, Chris Alley, Eric Schirmer, Peyton Patridge, Trey Bell.

Funeral Arrangements:

Monday, June 30, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Madison, MS

Rosary at 12:30pm

Visitation at 1 - 3pm

Funeral Mass at 3pm

Burial to follow Mass at Flora Cemetery

Stricklin King Funeral Home will be handling all arrangements for the family.