Lea Clark Black

  Lea Clark Black, 95, of Yazoo City, passed away Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at the Mississippi Veterans Home in Kosciusko. 

Lea was born on September 4, 1931, in Rosedale to Carl Benton Black and Rosa Lea Black. A United States veteran, he served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He graduated from Mississippi State College in 1957 with a B.S. in Accounting. In 1962, Lea moved to Yazoo City where he worked for over 30 years at Mississippi Chemical Corporation, retiring as director of accounting in 1993. After retiring, he and his wife Lesca lived in Oxford for several years before returning to Yazoo City in 2017.

Lea was preceded in death by his parents, and brother Carl Benton Black, Jr. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Lesca Kemp Black; sons Tom (Michelle) Black and Robert (Angie) Black; grandchildren Katie (Brandon) Poe, Bob (Sara) Black, Kemp Black, Carlton Black, Caroline Black, and Josh Black; and great grandchildren James Poe and Dottie Black. 

Visitation will begin at 11:00 am at Trinity Episcopal Church with the service following at 12:00 pm. Burial will be at Glenwood Cemetery after the service all under the direction of Sticklin King Funeral Home. 

Memorials may be made to Trinity Episcopal Church or the charity of your choice. 

January 4, 1954 – September 30, 2026

Benjamin Allen Smith, 72, of Livingston, Louisiana, passed away on September 30, 2026, in Brandon, Mississippi. Born on January 4, 1954, Benjamin was born and raised in Yazoo City, Mississippi, a place that would always be home no matter where life took him.

Benjamin was the son of the late Pete and Mary Jo Smith. He shared 22 years of marriage with his wife, Donna Perry Smith, building a life centered around family and the people they loved.

Benjamin spent his working years as an auto body technician. He was a true good ole boy—funny,

down-to-earth, hardworking, and someone who simply enjoyed life and the people around him. One of his favorite things to do was ride his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, enjoying the freedom of the open road and the time spent on his bike.

More than anything, Benjamin loved his family. He was a loving father, brother, friend, husband, and the much-loved “Papaw Geez” to his grandchildren. His son, Michael, was an important part of his life, and Benjamin was a devoted father who remained very involved in Michael’s life and, later, in the lives of his grandchildren. He loved being part of their lives, and the time, laughter, stories, and memories they shared with him will be treasured for years to come.

Benjamin is survived by his wife of 22 years, Donna Perry Smith; his son, Michael Allen Smith; his

grandchildren, Michael Smith, Jr., Raylan Smith, and AJ Lowery; and his sisters, Dene Smith and Nancy Holloway. He also leaves behind family and friends who will deeply miss his humor, his easy going nature, and the unmistakable presence he brought into their lives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Mary Jo Smith, and his sister, Jamie Porter.

Benjamin’s life was defined by the people he loved and the way he loved them. He was happiest simply being himself—a good ole boy who loved his family, loved a good laugh, and loved getting on his Harley and riding. To those who knew him as Benjamin, Benji, Dad, a brother, a friend, a husband, or simply “PapawGeez,” the memories he leaves behind will be carried with them always.

Visitation will be held at Stricklin-King Funeral Home in Yazoo City, Mississippi, from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow in Cale, Mississippi.

Stricklin King Funeral Home will handle all arrangements for the family.

March 9, 1960 – September 28, 2026

Kent was born on March 9, 1960, in Kennett, Missouri, to George and Greta Langdon.

Kent lived life to the fullest and embraced every opportunity for adventure. Throughout his life, he wore many hats, including business owner, farmer, crop duster, and construction manager. He enjoyed riding motorcycles, traveling, flying airplanes, fishing, and spending time outdoors, especially on the water. He was also a gifted cook and could fry fish like nobody else.

With his warm personality and genuine interest in others, Kent never met a stranger. He could strike up a conversation with just about anyone and seemed to know a little about everything. Wise, curious, and generous with his knowledge, he taught his children and grandchildren lessons they will carry with them throughout their lives.

Kent’s relationship with the Lord was central to his life. He was a member of Pocahontas Baptist Church, where his faith was an important part of his daily walk.

Above all, Kent treasured his family. He loved his children and took great joy in being a grandfather. Affectionately known as Pops by family and friends alike, he held a special place in the hearts of all who knew him. He rarely missed an opportunity to support his grandchildren, whether sitting on the sidelines, cheering from the stands, or simply being present for the activities they loved. He especially enjoyed practicing with them in the yard, helping them improve their sports skills, and sharing in their excitement. He was proud of each of them and cherished the memories they made together.

He is survived by his wife, Janice Langdon; his children, Chad Langdon (Emily), Tye Langdon (Meagan Grisham, fiancé), Hunter Langdon (Madelyn), and Jamie Langdon; his grandchildren, Anna Grace Perkins, Kellan Langdon, Lillian Langdon, Kentlee Langdon, and Aubree Langdon; his mother, Greta Langdon; his sister, Linda Conner (Billy); and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, George Langdon, and his brother, Keith Langdon.

Kent was more than a husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother—he was our hero. He was the person we could turn to, the one who could figure things out, teach us something new, make us laugh, or simply be there when we needed him. His adventurous spirit, wisdom, faith, and love for his family shaped the lives of those around him. He leaves behind a lifetime of stories, lessons, laughter, good meals, and cherished memories that will live on through all who loved him.

Visitation will be held October 10 at Pocahontas Baptist Church in Jackson, Mississippi, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with a memorial service to follow. 

In lieu off flowers, in honor of Kent’s lifelong passion for the outdoors, children, and flying, memorials may be made to The ARC of Mississippi or Southern Outdoor’s unlimited.

The ARC of Mississippi

www.arcms.org

Southern Outdoors Unlimited www.southernoutdoorsunlimited.org

Stricklin King Funeral Home will handle all arrangements for the family. 

In Loving Memory of Judy Johnston Leach

Judy Johnston Leach was born September 24, 1951, in Sunflower County. She passed away on September 25, 2026. Judy was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. 

She was predeceased in death by parents, Cecil and Mae Johnston and brother, Wesley Johnston. 

She is survived by her son, Neil (Elizabeth) Johnston; her daughter, Carolyn “Missie” Leach; her grandsons, Wesley, Caleb, Cole, Conner, and Jax Johnston; and her granddaughters, Kaitlyn and Carma Leach. She is also survived by her sister, Jean (Larry) Bennett; nieces Lori (Brian) Wilson and Laura (Stephen) Jennings; her aunt, Vera Griffin; and many loving cousins.

Judy retired as a secretary with the Leflore County Sheriff's Office, where she was dedicated to her work and the people she served. Judy was a member of First Baptist Church Itta Bena. 

Funeral services will be held at Stricklin King Funeral Home in Yazoo City. Visitation will be Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. followed by graveside services at 1:00 p.m. at Glenwood Cemetery. Services will be conducted by Rev. Lee Sudduth. 

Pallbearers are Mike Sudduth, Andy Leach, Billy Brewer, David Irvin, Bill Staten, Cole Johnston, Jimmy Bennett, Robert Bennett, and Gregg Throneberry. 

Honorary pallbearers Ricky Banks, Ken Spencer, Chip Cade, Conner Johnston, Jax Johnston and Bobby Barton. 

Judy will be lovingly remembered by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

All arrangements are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home. 

Jerry Donn Peeples, 78, of Vaughan Mississippi, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2026, at St. Dominic Hospital in Jackson, Mississippi. He went to meet his Lord and Savior, leaving behind a legacy of love, family, hard work, and cherished memories.

Jerry was born on February 23, 1948, in Louise, Mississippi. On March 24, 1972, he married the love of his life, Velda Gibson Peeples, in Meridian, Mississippi. they shared their lives together for many years in Louise MS and then later years in Vaughan MS. They shared 54 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, devotion, and countless memories.

Jerry devoted 38 years of his working life to Delta Telephone, where he built a career and friendships that remained an important part of his life. Above all, Jerry loved spending time with his wife and his son. He took great pride in his family. He had a knack for working on projects and could often be found fixing, building, or tinkering with something. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, making memories outdoors and enjoying the simple things he loved.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Velda Gibson Peeples; his son, Jeffrey Peeples (Jennifer). He is also survived by his three grandchildren, Abby, Trace, and Dylan; his sisters, Shirley McIntyre, Barbara (Glen) Daniels, and Jan Logan; his brothers, Harold (Carolyn) Peeples and Pat (Lisa) Peeples; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Maurine Peeples and James P. Peeples; and his brothers, William Pittman Peeples, James C. Peeples, Jimmy Peeples, and Billy Ray Peeples.

Funeral services will be held on September 28, 2026, at Black Jack Baptist Church in Vaughan, Mississippi. Jerry will be laid to rest at Black Jack Baptist Church cemetery following the service.

Pallbearers will be Chuck Janes, John Lang, Mark McLelland, Trace Kirk, Dylan Kirk, and Ian Gibson.

Jerry will be deeply missed by his wife, family, and all who knew and loved him. His memory will live on through the stories shared, the lessons he taught, the projects he completed, the time spent outdoors, and, most of all, the love he gave to his family. Though he is no longer with them, the memories he created will remain in their hearts forever.

  Linnie Rose Ricks Jellum passed away Saturday, August 29, 2026 while a resident at Wildflower Lodge in La Grande, OR.  

Visitation will be held at Stricklin-King Funeral Home on Saturday, September 26 from 1:00 – 3:00 pm with Interment to follow at Midway Missionary Baptist Church, Benton, MS.

Linnie was born October 21, 1939 in Benton, MS, to the late O. B. and Annie Mae Long. She was a homemaker and mother of three children while married to W. D. (Bill) Ricks in Yazoo City, MS.

Linnie loved her house plants and her flowers; especially irises. She enjoyed baking, making jellies, jams, sewing, crocheting and embroidery. She was an active member of First Independent Methodist Church in Yazoo City where she assisted with the youth ministry and accompanied the youth to youth camp.

Linnie moved to La Grande, OR in the Fall of 2002 and where she later married Robert Jellum.

She is survived by her daughter, Pamela (Gary) Thornton of Madison, MS; her sons, Stanley (Frances) Ricks and Christopher (Janet) Ricks, both of Canton, MS; two grandchildren, five great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews; her brother, Donald (Patsy) Long of Rome, GA; and former husband, W. D. (Bill) Ricks of Benton, MS.

She is preceded in death by her parents, O. B. and Annie Mae Long; her sister, Virgie Ray and her brothers, Ivy Long, O. B. Long, Huey Long and James Long; and her husband, Robert Jellum.

All arrangements are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home. 

Ida Louise Bennett, age 60, of Yazoo County passed away at her residence September 16, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was a homemaker and of the Baptist faith.

Louise is preceded in death by her parents, J. S. Robinson and Margaret Haxell Robinson.

She leaves behind her devoted husband, Nathan Bennett; 3 daughters, Angel Smith and Mary Bennett of Yazoo City and Brenda Smith of Jackson, MS; a son, Kelly Bennett of Hattiesburg; 26 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren who she adored; a sister, Margaret “Joanie” Smith of Utah.

Services will be held Monday, September 21, 2026, in the chapel of Stricklin King Funeral Home in Yazoo City. Burial will follow in the Freewell Cemetery in Stewart, MS. 

All arrangements are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home. 

  Terrance “Terry” Haynes, age 83, of Yazoo City, MS, and formerly of Waverly, IL, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 31, 2026, at Humphreys County Nursing Center in Belzoni, MS.

Terry was born on October 31, 1942, in Jacksonville, IL, to Byron “Sparky” and Roberta Haynes. 

He married his high school sweetheart, Phyllis, and shortly after the birth of their first son, they moved to Carter, Mississippi, where they built their life together and raised their family. Terry spent the next 20 years farming, creating a life filled with hard work and many memories. He and Phyllis later ventured into the antique business together, where he enjoyed collecting, restoring, and refinishing beautiful pieces, taking great pride in bringing them back to life. 

Terry loved farming, woodworking, and, perhaps most of all, telling stories to everyone he met. He was known for his big smile, warm personality, and genuine love of conversation. Most mornings, you could find him at the post office, visiting with friends. He never met a stranger and never forgot a face. His welcoming smile, infectious laughter, and endless supply of stories will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Terry’s memory and legacy will live on through his surviving family: his wife, Phyllis Rector Haynes; his son, Scott Haynes; his brothers, Mike Haynes (Beverly) of Huntley, IL, and Richard “Dick” Haynes of Auburn, IL; his grandchildren, Lacey Bowman (Blake), Michael Haynes (Taylor), and Zach Haynes; and his great-grandchildren, Faron Bates Haynes, Carter Bowman, and Sarah Blake Bowman. He also leaves behind many other family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory and miss him dearly. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Tom; and his brother, Kevin. 

A private family burial service will be held at Glenwood Cemetery on Thursday, September 3, 2026. Michael Haynes, Zach Haynes, Blake Bowman, and Jay McConnell will serve as pallbearers. Stricklin King Funeral Home will handle all arrangements for the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made in Terry’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

James B. Hanna, passed away from this world into the arms of his Heavenly Father on Aug. 24, 2026.

Visitation will be held on Friday, Aug. 28, from 9:30 a.m. until 11 a.m. at Stricklin King Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow visitation. Burial services will be held at Fletchers Chapel Cemetery following the funeral services. Military honors will be presented. 

The Patriot Guard Riders and Central Mississippi Heaven's Saints will also be present in honor of James.

James Otis Williamson, Jr. went home to rest on August 26, 2026. Born on August 8, 1959, James lived a life marked by devotion to his nation and deep love for his family.  

​As a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, James carried the values of duty, resilience, and quiet strength throughout his entire life. He served as a Combat Signaler, achieving the rank of SP4. His dedicated periods of active service included November 13, 1978, to October 11, 1985, and November 17, 1990, to May 15, 1991, which included a deployment to Southwest Asia from December 6, 1990, to May 6, 1991. His distinguished service was recognized with numerous honors, including the Good Conduct Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, and Expert badges for rifle and grenade. To those who knew him best, he was a loving husband, a protective and caring father, a proud grandfather, and a loyal friend.  

​James was reunited in peace with those who went before him: his grandparents, Jack and Edith Williamson; his parents, James Otis and Janie Faye Williamson; his brother, Robbie Williamson; his sister, Mary Faye Bestwick; and his beloved daughter, Jennifer Rose Prater.

​His memory and legacy will live on through his surviving family: his faithful wife, Marlene Collins Williamson; his loving daughter, Crystal Williamson Burks, and her husband Willie Burks, whom he cherished as a son; and his two precious grandchildren, Isabella Burks and Jayden Isaiah Prater.

​Arrangements and military honors are entrusted to Stricklin King Funeral Home in Yazoo City, Mississippi.

Carol Slaughter, 87, of Madison, MS passed away on August 25, 2026, at home surrounded by the love of her family.

Born January 2, 1939, in Mechanicsburg, MS, she was a graduate/class president of Louise High School in 1956. After graduating, she had various jobs, but retired from Sta-Home Health after 39 years. In her spare time, she loved to read, spend time with all of her family, and was very involved in her Church community.

Carol was a devoted wife, daughter, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend who found joy in serving others. Those who knew her will remember her sweet and giving spirit.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 69 years, James Slaughter; two daughters, Janice Emerson (Richard) and Lisa Warren (Tommy); four grandchildren, Amanda Emerson (Wesley), Tim Emerson (Ashley), Lindsey Walker (Stephen) and Emily Watson (Brandon); and three great-grandchildren, Brantley Emerson, Avery Walker, and Millie Watson.

Carol was proceeded in death by her parents, Grady and Ruth Sanders.

A funeral service will be held on Friday August 28th, 2026 at 10:00am at
Old Rice Road Baptist Church
82 Old Rice Rd.
Madison, MS 39110

All arrangements are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home.

  Patricia Byrd Peaster died on Monday, August 24, 2026, and was at that moment made perfect as she entered the welcome embrace of her Savior. Known to friends and family as Patsy, and to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren as Dear, she was above all else a warm, loving and devoted servant of her husband, James R. (Sonny) Peaster, III, her children and their friends, her grandchildren and their friends, her church family and her sweet Savior Jesus Christ. She will be missed by the countless lives she touched with her kindness, warmth and hospitality.

Patsy is survived by her husband of 66 years, James R. (Sonny) Peaster, III; daughter Laura Young (John); son James R. (Jamie) Peaster, IV (Monica); and son Richard Peaster (Susan); grandchildren Anna Laura West (Hayden); John Henderson Young (Frances); James Peaster Young (CiCi); Sarah Grafton Irving (David); Matt Peaster (Taylor); Josh Peaster (Lucie); Annie Montgomery (Robert); William Peaster (Anna); and Mark Peaster; as well as 22 great grandchildren. Also, a brother Richard Byrd (Coral).

Patsy was born April 12, 1940, to Richard Ford Byrd and Irvine Cheatham Byrd, and raised in Holmes County, Mississippi, in and around the town of Tchula. She graduated from Tchula High School then went on to Delta State University where she was a beauty and homecoming maid. For a brief time, she lived and worked in Jackson, Mississippi. She married her sweetheart James Peaster in 1960. She and “Pete” (as only she called him) raised 3 children in rural Holmes County on the family farm until daily driving into town for church, school and activities became burdensome. At that point the family moved into a house in Yazoo City in which they lived for the next 50 years. 

This house would soon become Patsy’s testament to the love of Christ in her life. This became a place where people would gather, visitors were welcome, children were loved, friends became family, good food was abundant, the conversation was stimulating and the laughter was plentiful. There was never an hour too late nor an invitation to join for food too late about which there was murmuring or complaining. Patsy was ready and willing to receive and feed and host and serve. She was the loving, beating heart of a home that welcomed everyone all of the time. 

Patsy performed these feats of service in the home while faithfully serving the church as both a teacher and the piano player for as long as I can remember. One of the great sorrows of her aging mind and body was her inability to reliably strike the correct keys as she played. But through it all she remained a kind and cheerful soul who was always more concerned with others than herself. Even as her mind and body continued to fail her, Patsy’s kind eyes and sweet smile remained. A faithful servant now enjoys her faithful Savior’s reward.

The family would like to express our deepest appreciation for all the visitors and friends and enquiries for our Dear over the last few years, and to the precious people at Beau Ridge Memory Care – Josh, Mamie, Dee, Samson, Sabrevian, Olivia, Erika and many more. Thanks to our kind hospice nurse Anna Wright. In lieu of flowers a gift to Reformed Theological Seminary, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, The MIND Center at UMMC or your local church is requested.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 - 11:30 on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at the Second Presbyterian Church in Yazoo City, MS with service to follow.  All arrangements are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home. 

 Nansy Street Huntsberry, born August 25, 1940, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026, surrounded by those she loved.

Nansy lived a life devoted to serving others. She proudly served in the United States Air Force as a registered nurse and later continued her calling to care for others through a career in public health, where she worked as a registered nurse until her retirement.

Nansy grew up in Yazoo County and, upon her retirement, made her home in Pearl, Mississippi. She was a devoted Christian and a member of Skyway Hills Baptist Church in Pearl, Mississippi, where her faith was an important part of her life.

Following the passing of her mother, Grace Street, in 1995, Nansy gracefully stepped into the role of family matriarch. She became the steady heart of her extended family, leading with love, compassion, wisdom, and strength. Her home was always open to family whenever they needed a place to gather, a helping hand, or simply someone to listen.

Nansy was the family’s nurse, confidant, caregiver, and trusted source of comfort. She took that role very seriously and never hesitated to care for those she loved. Her generosity, devotion, and unwavering love for her family will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Peter Huntsberry; her parents, Hess Street and Grace Street; her sister, Joyce Coker; and her brothers, James David Street and Steve Street.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her son, David Huntsberry; granddaughter, Marie Huntsberry; sister, Vivian “Bib” Steed; brother, Mike Street; along with a host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, church family, and friends.

Nansy leaves behind a legacy of service, faith, strength, and, above all, love. Though she will be deeply missed, the love she poured into her family and the many lives she touched will continue through the generations.

Funeral services will be held at Stricklin-King Funeral Home in Yazoo City, Mississippi, on Sunday, August 23, 2026. Visitation will begin at 12:30 p.m., with the funeral service following at 2:00 p.m.

The family invites all who knew and loved Nansy to join them in celebrating a life well lived and a woman whose heart was always open to those she loved.

Verbon Ryals Sr., of Benton, passed away on August 17, 2026, at the age of 80.

Verbon was born on May 2, 1946, in Kosciusko, Mississippi, to Zady Ryals and Eva Lee Tharp Ryals. Throughout his life, he made his home in Vicksburg, Yazoo City, and eventually Benton, Mississippi.

Verbon was a hardworking man who took great pride in providing for his family. He worked as a welder at AMCO Manufacturing and later spent more than 20 years as a cotton picker mechanic at Peaster Tractor, where he retired.

Outside of work, Verbon enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, and spending time in his shop making and fixing things with his own hands. He was a man who could figure out how to build, repair, or make almost anything work. He took great joy in working hard and providing for the people he loved.

Verbon was a Christian, devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather. He and his beloved wife, Sandra Ryals, shared nearly 61 years of marriage before her passing. Their life together was built on family, hard work, and love.

He loved being surrounded by his family and especially enjoyed playing with his grandchildren. He was very loving and caring, but he was also a man who believed in doing what was right and wasn’t afraid to be stern when he needed to be. His family knew they could count on him.

Verbon was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Sandra Ryals; his parents, Zady Ryals and Eva Lee Tharp Ryals; and his siblings, Ed Ryals, Steve Ryals, Christine Coker, Effie Vance, Jewel Rodgers, and Bobbie Morgan.

He is survived by his children, Verbon Ryals Jr., Sharon Myers (Mitch), and Jennifer Kight (Spence); his grandchildren, Amber Fowler (John Avery), Erin Kight (Joey Dombroski), Molly Kight (Anthony Ward), Dustin Porter (Haley), and Jacob Porter; his great-grandchildren, Greyson Jones, Britton Jones, and Thomas Ward. He will also be greatly missed by his loyal companion, Sport.

He was eagerly anticipating the arrival of another great-grandchild, Anna Reese Fowler, a baby he already loved and was so excited to meet.

He is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews, along with extended family and friends who loved him dearly.

The family extends a very special thank you to Kelly and Michael Paul Keene for being kind, patient, and loving in taking care of him daily for the last three years. Verbon often referred to Kelly as his “adopted daughter” and loved her very much.

Verbon will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love of the outdoors, and most of all, his deep love for his family. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories, and a family who will miss him more than words can express.

Though his hands are now still, the things he built, the lessons he taught, his love for the Lord, and the love he gave his family will live on through the generations.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. until 11 a.m. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home.

William Warner Coody, born November 8, 1969, in Dallas, TX, to William and Shelia Coody, met his heavenly Father on August 6, 2026, at the age of 56 years, 8 months and 29 days.  

Bill accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at age 10 and was baptized by Rev. Bob Green at Arrow Heights Baptist Church. Growing up in Broken Arrow and attending private school and then Broken Arrow Public Schools to graduate in the Class of 1988, he then attended the University of Oklahoma. Bill later attended Western State University in Gunnison, CO, where he lived, worked, and grew to love the Colorado mountains.  

While working in Crested Butte as a restaurant manager, his skills led him to cooking and serving hunting groups and providing banquets for the Elks Lodge in Gunnison. Bill enjoyed the social side of serving others, engaging in conversations, challenging math professors, learning business and how structures are built, eventually building a home. Bill returned to Broken Arrow to work in commercial construction where he found his specialty in commercial door installation. 

In recent years, Bill dedicated time toward the family rental business. Known to the tenants as Bill Jr. or BJ, he managed properties by locating appliances, providing maintenance, and problem-solving difficult repairs. His carpentry skills led to amazing results. Tenants loved and respected him.   

As the firstborn, Bill met his brother, Jon, at 18 months and met his sister, Danielle, at the age of 10. At 16, Bill received his Eagle Scout Award after completing a playground structure as his Eagle Project for the Arrow Heights Preschool Division.  

Bill Jr. never married but found a special love in his extended family. He loved his nephews and nieces – the playfulness, watching them learn and be challenged. Bill truly loved the conversations, the trips, the fun, the perfect gifts, the candy, the special care for each of their needs and worked diligently to prepare his pool for summer swimming. Preparing for visits from Jon, Tanya, and Danielle set him to plan meals, outings, and to hunt for “happies” (small gifts). He truly loved them all. Bill loved reading and learning, especially history, politics, and geography. During his life, he had an opportunity to travel with family and friends to 49 states and eight foreign countries. 

Mississippi will be his Resting Place. His family is from Yazoo City where he often visited grandparents. His love for the Coody home began as a baby. His admiration for this home grew as he learned more about wood beams, structure, and materials. Cedar Lane (the farm and hunting acreage) provided open spaces and an appreciation of family heritage. 

Bill Jr. is survived by his parents, William and Shelia Coody of Broken Arrow. His surviving siblings are his brother, Jon Coody (Tanya) of Prague, Czech Republic; his sister Danielle Coody Lopez of Chicago, Illinois, and his nieces and nephews, Anna Coody, Mark Coody, Jean Luc Lopez, Juliette Lopez.  

All arrangements are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home. 

  Sidney Rose Miller Lowery Douglas, age 90, of Yazoo City, Mississippi, passed away at her home on August 5, 2026, surrounded by some of her loving family. She was born in Yazoo City, Mississippi, on March 30, 1936, to the late William E. “Cowboy” Miller and Sidney Montgomery Miller.

Sidney was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She lived a life marked by faith, love, family, and a wonderful sense of humor. Her quick wit and joyful spirit brought laughter to those around her, and her kindness and gracious heart made everyone feel welcome. She had a special way of making people smile and believed that life was meant to be enjoyed, especially if there was peanut butter involved.

In her younger years, Sidney worked for South Central Bell. She later married Ernest Carl Lowery, with whom she shared 25 years of marriage. Together, they were blessed with five children. Sidney devoted herself to raising her family and somehow managed the chaos of five teenagers. Later she married her husband, Keith Douglas. They were married 12 years before he passed. She gave her children encouragement and unconditional love.

Her greatest earthly joy was her family. In her later years, she took great pride in watching her children grow and in seeing her grandchildren and great-grandchildren become the blessings of her life. She treasured every moment spent with them and leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue through the generations.

Sidney was preceded in death by her parents, William E. “Cowboy” Miller and Sidney Montgomery Miller; her beloved brother, William E. “Bill” Miller Jr.; her sister, Patricia Miller; her son, William Sloan Lowery; and her granddaughter, Lake Little.

She is survived by her children, Ernest Carl “Buddy” Lowery Jr. (Michelle), Patricia Lowery Little (David), April Lowery Ward (Timmy), and Mary Lowery Brooks (Bart); her eleven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren, along with numerous extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Sidney’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who loved her, but we find comfort in the promise of Scripture and rejoice in the assurance that she is now resting in the presence of her Lord and Savior. After a long life, we believe she has heard those precious words:

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

We find comfort knowing that Sidney has been reunited in Heaven with her beloved brother and sister, Bill and Patricia, whom she missed dearly throughout her years. We can only imagine the joy of that heavenly reunion.

Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and her love a gift that will remain in the hearts of her family forever. Though she will be deeply missed, her family takes comfort in knowing that this is not goodbye, but only a temporary separation until they meet again.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to: The Methodist Church, 203 N Washington St.,Yazoo City, MS 39194 or Dover Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 173,  Bentonia, MS 39040.

All arrangements are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home. 

Barbara Griffing White, 86, of Benton, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on August 9, 2026. She was born in Bentonia, MS on November 3, 1939. She was preceded in death by her husband Eugene White, her parents M.P. “Pete” and Edith Echols Griffing, her stepson Gene White, and her 3 brothers Bud, Frank, and Jimmy Griffing.

She is survived by her children Dale VanGorder (Judy), Carla White (Jeff), Clair Pierce (Chris), and daughter-in-law Eden White; her grandchildren Brandon VanGorder (Whitney), Jordy White (Laura), Hayden White (Emily), Joe White (Madison), Devin Che Smith (Phillip), Christina Crabtree (Preston), Layton Pierce, Brett Pierce, and Vaden Pierce; her 12 great grandchildren, her five sisters:  Mary Ables (Phillip), Betty Cargil, Linda Bentley, Lynn Montgomery, and Phyllis McDill; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Barbara loved her family deeply. She looked forward to hosting family reunions, and creating a welcoming space where everyone could gather, share stories, and build lasting memories. Her home was filled with love and her most prized possessions: her numerous, treasured pictures of all her family. She will be remembered for her unwavering faith, devotion to her loved ones, and the warmth she brought to every family gathering.

Services will be at Stricklin-King Funeral Home in Yazoo City on Wednesday, August 12 with visitation beginning at 12:30, funeral service at 2:00, and graveside service to follow at Glenwood Cemetery. All arrangements are under the direction of Stricklin King Funeral Home.