Martha Joan Jackson Atkinson
Martha Joan Jackson Atkinson went to be with her Lord on Friday, November 28, 2025, after a prolonged hospital stay. She was born on January 8, 1936, in Holly Springs, MS to Charles and Pauline Jackson. She is survived by her sons, Dr. Ralph C. Atkinson III (Denise) and Rev. Ben Atkinson (Lori); grandchildren, Jennifer Simcox (Brandon), Matthew Atkinson, Lindsey Kathryn Shokes (Jon) and their mother Becky Atkinson, Benjamin Atkinson, and Bethany Kealhofer (Sam); great grandchildren, Caroline Simcox, Ellie Simcox, Jackson Shokes and Charlotte Shokes; siblings, Jean Thomason (Ralph) and Charles J. Jackson, Jr. (Elizabeth); and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Ralph C. Atkinson, Jr. and her parents, Charles and Pauline Jackson.
Joan moved to Yazoo City when she was a junior in high school. There, she met the love of her life, Ralph Atkinson, and the two were married after graduating from Mississippi College. She began her decades-long teaching career in a suburb of New Orleans before teaching in schools in Michigan, Texas, Kansas, Kentucky, and Mississippi. Her specialty and joy in teaching were found in serving junior high and high school students in special education. She loved seeing them grow and flourish in developing life skills and self-esteem that would serve them long after high school was over. She truly saw her work as a calling from the Lord and an opportunity for ministering to these students and their families.
Faith and Family were central in Joan’s life. She came to faith in Jesus Christ as a child and sought to serve him throughout her life. She enjoyed serving others in the churches she was a member of through teaching children and giving her time in the church outreach ministries that helped those in need. Her father and mother set the example for serving others with help and a caring hand, and Joan touched many lives this way in the communities in which she lived. She loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and trusted Him to carry her through even the hardest parts of her life – especially the last few weeks.
Joan’s pride and joy were her family. She loved celebrating the good times as well as loving unconditionally through the hard times. She cherished getting to spend time with them all, but especially her grandchildren and, more recently, her great-grandchildren. She was great at keeping up with everyone by texting at random times during the week and letting them know she loved them and prayed for them. Those moments will be missed.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held Wednesday, December 3, at the First Baptist Church in Yazoo City, MS. Visitation will begin at 10:00am and the service will begin at 11:00. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the First Baptist Church of Yazoo City Children’s Ministry. All arrangements are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home.
Lynwood Shipp
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Lynwood Shipp, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Lynwood’s gentle heart, steady presence, and unwavering love left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Lynwood was the proud father of two sons, Ryan Shipp and Chris Shipp, both of whom carry forward his strength, kindness, and quiet wisdom. He was also a devoted grandfather to Lee Montgomery, whose life he touched with endless affection and pride. Family was at the center of everything he did, and he found his greatest joy in the moments spent with those he loved. Born into a large and lively family, Lynwood was one of thirteen brothers and sisters, a place in life that helped shape his patience, compassion, and deep appreciation for togetherness.
At the core of who he was stood his unwavering faith, a guiding light that shaped his character, his choices, and his interactions with others. His deep belief provided him strength in difficult times, inspired the way he treated people, and offered him comfort throughout his life.
Though his absence leaves a profound emptiness, the memories he leaves behind are a lasting source of strength and love. Lynwood’s spirit lives on in his children, his grandson, his siblings, and all who were touched by his life.
Services for Lynwood Shipp will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2025.
Visitation will take place from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM, with funeral services beginning at 11:00 AM. All arrangements are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home.
Philip Dale Kettleman
Philip Dale Kettleman is healed and resting for eternity with his Heavenly Father. Philip passed away from his Earthly journey on Nov. 27, 2025 on Thanksgiving Day and the 34th wedding anniversary for he and his wife, Donna.
Visitation will be held Monday, Dec 1, from 10 a.m. until the funeral service at 11 a.m. at the Stricklin King Funeral Home.
Philip was preceded in death by his parents, Omer and Gwen Kettleman; sister, Jerri Tomlinson; and brother, Junior Gay.
He is survived by his wife, Donna Kettleman; sons, Matthew Kettleman and Jonathan Alford (Ruobing); three grandchildren, Charlie Alford, Alice Alford and Bennett Kettleman; sister, Sarah Dixon; and brother, Buddy Woods.
Philip was so loved and will be missed. He touched many lives. He valued his family and his relationship with God. He believed in loyalty to those he loved, time well spent enjoying God’s creation and in good food and music.
All arrangements are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home
John Kelly Byrd
John Kelly Byrd passed away at home, surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, November 22, 2025. Visitation will be Tuesday, November 25 at First Presbyterian Church in Yazoo City from 12-2 p.m. prior to the 2 p.m. funeral service. Burial will follow at Glenwood Cemetery.
Born May 25, 1953, in Greenville, MS, John, the second of four children of the late Nancy and Tony Byrd, was raised in Greenwood, MS. He relocated to Yazoo City when he married the love of his life, Nettie Clark Byrd, in 1996. John joined First Presbyterian Church soon thereafter and went on t0 serve the Lord as a faithful Deacon for 21 years. He was also the groundskeeper and church custodial manager for over 20 years.
John was a graduate of Greenwood High School and of The University of Mississippi where he received a Bachelor of Business Adminstration. He was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.
He was a kind, genuine man known for his strong work ethic which he cultivated while growing up in the family’s restaurants in Greenwood. After his relocation to Yazoo City, this ethic continued in various roles in Yazoo City including Executive Director of the Triangle Cultural Center, Director of the Main Street Association where he spearheaded a major improvement grant for Yazoo City’s historic downtown and later as Senior Purchase Clerk for the Yazoo County Board of Supervisors until his death. He also spent many years working in Child Support Services in Jackson.
A soft-spoken, deeply caring husband and father, he was a gift to everyone, and his life touched many people in and around the community. John is best remembered by his gentle spirit, his devotion, love and faithfulness to his Lord and his family, and his love of a tasty, well-prepared meal.
He is survived by his adoring wife of 29 years, Nettie Clark Byrd; his beloved son, John (Andrew) Byrd and his wife, Emilie (Jackson, MS); his precious granddaughter, Sofia Byrd; a daughter, Livie Byrd; sisters Toni (John Heston) Powers (Greenwood, MS) and Tracy Byrd (San Antonio, TX); and brother, Richard Byrd (Fort Walton Beach, FL).
Pallbearers are John Andrew Byrd, Richard Byrd, John (Heston) Powers, Jr., John Heston Powers III, Douglas Thacker, and Sam Thacker.
Honorary Pallbearers are McDaniel Gatson, Bill Malouf, and the Diaconate of First Presbyterian Church: Kip Carroll, Henry Barbour, Hayes Dent, and John Murry Greenlee.
In lieu of flowers, any donations can be made to First Presbyterian Church, 231 N. Washington Street, Yazoo City, MS 39194 or the Mississippi Animal Rescue League, 5221 Greenway Drive Ext., Jackson, MS 39204. All arrangements are under the Stricklin King Funeral Home.
Peggy Ann Green Harris
OBITUARY OF PEGGY ANN GREEN HARRIS
Peggy Ann Green Harris, 92, of Sartartia, Mississippi passed away on November 17, 2025, in her home.
A graduate of Sartartia High School, she married shortly before graduating and readily assumed the role of a Farmer’s Wife—a role filled with faith in the harvest, food on the table, and fellowship at every opportunity. As a dedicated Christian woman, her eternal impact will surely last for generations. Nearly always in the company of her own family, as “Mama” to five wonderful children and “Meme” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, her genuine warmth easily made others feel like they were family, too. She strayed little from Highway 3 and her commitments to the farm, unless it was to church, a ballgame, or a short, scenic trip to enjoy the changing leaves.
Inspired by the countless hours she spent in the kitchen, her recipe for life included: spreading love lavishly, dashing her days with devotion to others, pouring out prayers of petition and praise, and blending in patience with perseverance. Her hospitality and generosity were evident in the way she would welcome anyone and everyone through her backdoor with a: “well, we’ll just all eat until it’s gone!” As much as she liked to add a little more to her recipes, she surely added to the flavor and fullness of the lives of her family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband Frank E. Harris, son, Mike Harris, and parents, John R. Green and Freddie Stinson Green. She is survived by her children, Diane Lancaster, Billy Ray Harris, Susan Harris, and Brent Harris (Michelle), daughter-in-law, Nicki Harris, 8 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and numerous other relatives. The LORD surely entrusted her with a bountiful plenty of those she loved and those who loved her.
Visitation is planned at Oak Grove Baptist Church for 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, 11/19/2025 with the service immediately following. All arrangements are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home.
Pallbearers are Justin Lancaster, Chris Harris, John Michael Harris, Shaw Lancaster, Camden Johnson, and Harper Nicholson. Honorary Pallbearers are Bill Johnson, Cody Reece, John Rollings Harris, Witt Harris, Joseph Sanders, Garrett Sanders, Bryan Boyd, John Sanders and the Deacons of Oak Grove Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, family requests donations may be made to the Oak Grove Baptist Church Children and Youth Fund.
Robert “Van” Coleman
Surrounded by love, Robert “Van” Coleman passed from this life into God’s embrace on 11/13/2025.
We remember Van for his unwavering faith, gentle spirit, and the joy he brought to all.
We trust in the promise that “God will wipe every tear from their eyes” (Revelation 21:4).
A service honoring his life will take place at Parkview Church of God on Tuesday. Visitation will be 11am-12:30pm. Funeral will be at 1:00pm.
“Remember me with smiles and laughter! The fun we had the laughs we shared. If you can’t remember me like that don’t remember me at all. One day we will all meet again in Heaven. I love you all!”
I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13
Elizabeth Lynn Strickland
Elizabeth Lynn Strickland, born October 26, 1947, of Ringold, Louisiana, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord on November 13, 2025, in Yazoo City, Mississippi. She was 78 years old.
Lynn was the daughter of Lory and Helen Bates, both of whom preceded her in death. She grew up in Ringold alongside a large, close-knit family, graduating from Ringold High School before attending cosmetology school—beginning a lifelong career for over 50 years. As a hairdresser, she became far more than a stylist to her clients; she was a confidante, encourager, and steady source of warmth and kindness in the community.
On July 1, 1967, Lynn married the love of her life, Webster “Ivo” Strickland. Together they built a beautiful life centered around faith, family, and service. Their marriage, rooted in devotion, lasted 53 years until Ivo’s passing in 2020.
Lynn was a devoted mother to her children, Deb Saxton (Randy) and Chad Strickland. She was affectionately known as “Nana”to her six cherished grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her great joy. Nothing made her happier than time spent surrounded by her family—especially during the Sunday lunches she loved to cook and host.
She is survived by her siblings Larry Don Bates, Jerry Bates, Susan Mangrum, Lisa Aultman, and Tina Bates. She was preceded in death by her sister Dianna Myers and sister-in-law Veronica Strickland.
Lynn lived her life as a faithful servant of God. A dedicated member of Parkview Church of God, she sang joyfully in the choir and poured her heart into organizing Wednesday night meals, family showers, and providing food and support to those in need. Her service was never about recognition—it was simply who she was.
She loved yard work, decorating her home with warmth and creativity, cooking for her family, and finding any reason to gather her loved ones close. Those who knew her describe her as loving, caring, selfless, and steadfast in her faith. She put God first in every step she took and lived out His love through her actions.
A visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., Monday, November 17, 2025, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 p.m. at Parkview Church of God. Interment will take place at Glenwood Cemetery. All arrangements will be under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Parkview Church of God Music and Worship Ministry or the Building Fund—causes close to her heart.
Elizabeth Lynn Strickland leaves behind a legacy of faith, compassion, and family devotion. Her life touched countless people, and her memory will forever be a blessing.
Robert Axton Eckler
Robert Axton Eckler, 62, of Yazoo County, Mississippi, passed away at his home on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, after a short fight with cancer. He was born in Fayetteville, North Carolina on November 1, 1963, to Joe Mack Eckler, Sr. and Mary Davidson Eckler.
He loved spending time outdoors fishing, playing golf and hanging out with the grandchildren, but his passion was restoring antique cars and trucks. He was preceded in death by his parents and 2 brothers, Wesley and Jeffery King of Atlanta, Georgia.
Robert is survived by the love of his life, Cynthia Creel Eckler, 4 stepchildren, Melanie (Frank) Wallace, Monica (Brently) Miller of Jayess, Mississippi, Miranda (Johnathan) Kennedy of Pearl, Mississippi, and Trey (Ashley) Dunaway of Flora, Mississippi and 14 grandchildren. He is also survived by 2 brothers and 2 sisters of Albany and Atlanta, Georgia.
Serving as pallbearers are Trey Dunaway, Gage Beckwith, Wilkes Miller, Cole Wallace, Gabriel Toten, Timmy Creel, Darryl Creel and Clay Creel.
The family extends heartfelt appreciation for all the prayers, love and support that has been given during this difficult time.
A graveside burial service will be held Sunday, November 9th at 2 p.m. at Lula Cemetery in Flora, Mississippi all under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home.
William “Bill” Sessions Cox, Jr.
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.