Oct. 25 obituaries
Joshua Vaughn Staggs, 42
Joshua Vaughn Staggs, 42, of Tuscumbia, passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. Visitation will be Friday, October 17, from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. at Morrison Funeral Home, Tuscumbia. The funeral service will immediately follow in the funeral home chapel with Bro. Tim Robinson officiating. Interment will be in Colbert Memorial Gardens, Tuscumbia.
Joshua was a member of Faith Church. He liked to spend his time volunteering at the fire department, serving as an EMT, and driving an ambulance. He had a passion for taking care of others and spending time with his family and friends. He was an avid Alabama Football fan. Joshua was preceded in death by his parents, Linda Staggs and Bobby Staggs; grandparents, James Paul and Betty Cox; and aunts, Libby Allen and Shirley Allen.
He is survived by his sister, Amanda Lacks (Ron); niece Carley Ashe (Jordan); great-nephew, Casen Ashe; aunt, Donna Justice (Steve); multiple loving cousins; and beloved cat, Baby Girl.
Pallbearers will be his fellow firefighters from Locust Shores and neighboring fire departments.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Community Action Agency of Northwest Alabama, Meals on Wheels of the Shoals, or the Locust Shores Volunteer Fire Department.
Lawrence
Gordon
Rockhill, 76
Born to Irene and Henry Rockhill on February 8, 1949, in Harlingen, Texas, Lawrence Gordon Rockhill of Tuscumbia, Alabama, died peacefully on October 15, 2025, surrounded by family.
Larry was a graduate of the University of North Alabama where he attended on a basketball scholarship. He was also a member of the golf team. In 2011, he was inducted into the Winston County Hall of Fame. He was co-founder of Sales Group South, a sales and service company to the hardware distributor and home center industry in the USA. An accomplished and avid golfer, Larry played courses throughout the United States and Europe, winning multiple tournaments. He also enjoyed fishing bass tournaments with his brother Rocky.
Larry was preceded in death by his mother, Irene Hyde Rockhill. He is survived by his wife Dianne Rockhill, Tuscumbia; daughter Emily Rockhill (Nick Roberts), Jonesboro, Georgia; brothers Henry Rockhill (Rebecca), Tuscumbia, Alabama, and Gary S. Gentle (Mary), Peachtree City, Georgia; nieces and nephews.
Larry was fiercely loyal and devoted to his family. He was a collector of many things—coins, wine, Native American artifacts, antiques, and University of Alabama sports memorabilia.
A private graveside service will be held at Colbert Memorial Cemetery on Friday, October 17. A celebration of life service will be October 26, at 2:00 p.m., at Morrison Funeral Home, Tuscumbia, Alabama.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ALS Foundation or charity of your choice.
Billy Bruce Mitchell, 85
Billy Bruce “Bushy” Mitchell, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, passed away on October 15, 2025, at age 85. There will be a memorial service on Saturday, October 25th at 10am at Morrison Funeral Home, Tuscumbia, AL. The family will receive friends for visitation after the service.
Billy shared 62 wonderful years with his wife and best friend, Gala Hester Mitchell. Together they built a home filled with love and faith — the kind that set a lasting example for their children and grandchildren to follow.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Gala; his daughters, Jill Mitchell Stafford and Becky Mitchell Austin; his “sons” (in law), Mark Stafford and Shane Austin, with whom he shared a special bond; his four beloved grandchildren who made him so proud — Meg Stafford Todd and her husband Dillan, Jake Stafford, Ben Austin, and Molly Austin Shelton and her husband Mac. To them, he was “Poppy” — always ready with a clever joke, encouraging words, or a helping hand. He is also survived by his sister, Martha Brotherton of Covington, Tennessee.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents, William Wiley Mitchell and Ollie Anthum Hester Mitchell; his brothers, David, Wallace and Benny; and sisters, Betty Day Luna and Myra Kaye Rogers.
In 1963, Billy joined the Alabama National Guard, serving his state and country with pride. He later made his living as a talented carpenter and handyman. There wasn’t much he couldn’t fix, and he loved the challenge of figuring out how things worked. Whether tinkering in his shop, solving a tricky puzzle, or lending a hand to a neighbor, Billy approached life with patience and good humor.
Well known and deeply loved in his community —Billy will be remembered for his quick wit, a dry sense of humor, and a kind, easygoing spirit. His steady presence, and quiet wisdom were a gift to all who knew him.
Billy was baptized into Christ in October of 2020 and remained a faithful member of Red Rock Church of Christ.
His family will miss their Poppy’s chuckle, his quit wisdom that could untangle any problem, and the comfort of his company. His hands may rest, but his love and laughter will forever live in their hearts.
Sunnie Bonds George, 100
Sunnie Bonds George, 100, of Florence, passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. Visitation will be Saturday, October 18, from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Morrison Funeral Home, Tuscumbia. The funeral service will immediately follow in the funeral home chapel with Garry Lovette officiating. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery, Tuscumbia.
Sunnie was preceded in death by her husband, Emmett George; and siblings, Mildred Brown, Lucille Grissom, Delcie Bonds, Laron Bonds, and Jack Bonds.
She is survived by her nephew, Steve Grissom; and several other nieces and nephews.
The family would like to offer special thanks to Gentiva Hospice and to Elder Care.
James Wylie Brewer, Jr., 88
James “Jimmy” Wylie Brewer, Jr., 88, of Muscle Shoals, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. Visitation will be Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 1:00-3:00 at Morrison Funeral Home in Tuscumbia with the funeral immediately following in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Tim Martin officiating. Burial will be in Tri-Cities Memorial Gardens Monday at 10:00 a.m.
Jimmy was a native and life-long resident of the shoals. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Jimmy was a member of Grace Life Church of the Shoals in Muscle Shoals and a devoted servant of the Lord. He was a crane operator for Reynold’s Aluminum for thirty-nine years. Jimmy also enjoyed fishing, coaching, gardening and Alabama Football.
Jimmy was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty Rose Brewer; parents, James W. Sr. and Willie Brewer; brother, William A. Kilgore; and sisters, Margaret Inman and Janice Taylor.
Jimmy leaves behind his loving wife of fifty-eight years, Charlotte Lenz Brewer; children, Lynn Brewer (Melanie), Phillip Brewer (Dana), and Kim Brewer Brown (Robbie); grandchildren, Amber Brewer, Becky Johnson (Josh), Lauren Brewer, David Brewer, Cody Brown (Stephanie), Hunter Brown (Morgan), and Garrett Brown (Kaeli); and nine great-grandchildren.
Pallbearers are Josh Johnson, Cody Brown, Marcus Borden, Hunter Brown, David Brewer, Garrett Brown, Brandon Wallace, and Jordan Johnson.
Honorary pallbearers are Steve Purkes, Barry Lenz, DeShawn Bates, and Dawson Brewer.
The family expresses a special “Thank you” to the staff of Helen Keller Hospital, Muscle Shoals Fire Department, Keller Ambulance, Centerwell Home Health, and MK Infusion, who cared for Jimmy and rendered service to the family during his illness. Also a special “Thank you” to Steve and Amy Purkes who we consider part of our family.
Ryan Garrard Bowling, 33
Ryan Garrard Bowling, 33, Tuscumbia passed away Thursday October 16, 2025. Visitation will be Sunday, Oct. 19th, from 1:00 – 3:00p.m. at Launch Point Church, Tuscumbia. The service will immediately follow with Pastor Shane Swinney officiating.
Ryan attended Muscle Shoals High School and was a 2011 graduate of Russellville High School. He was an avid outdoor and sports enthusiast and played college baseball at Alabama A&M. Ryans son, Ryder, was his pride and joy, and he loved watching and supporting Ryder in everything he did. Ryan also adored his precious niece, Brianna. He will always be remembered for his infectious laugh and contagious smile.
He was preceded in death by grandfathers, Ronald Gene Bowling and Gus Garrard. Ryan is survived by his son Ryder Lane Bowling; parents, Ronnie and Kellie Bowling; sister, Lauren Bowling Sams (Blake); niece, Brianna Louise Sams; Granna, (Marcie Bowling); MeMe, (Margaret Garrard); aunts, Kristie Garrard Ezzell (Terry); Maggie Garrard Jenkins (Chad), Deedra Bowling Neil.
Madgett Dennis Crittenden, 96
Madge Crittenden, 96, of Tuscumbia, AL died on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. Visitation will be held on Monday, October 20, 2025 from 1-3 pm at Colbert Memorial Chapel with a service to follow in the chapel. Bro. Greg Beasley will be officiating. Interment will be in Colbert Memorial Gardens.
She was a member of Valley Grove Baptist Church and she loved to sing in the church choir for many years. She also loved gardening.
She was preceded in death by husband, Leo “Buck” Crittenden; mother, Mary “Mamie” Dennis McGregor; brother, Charlie Dennis; sisters, Mary Lou Posey and Maxie Lavender; grandson, Benji Corruth; sister-in-law, Ann Dennis; and brother-in-law, Paul Urbina.
She is survived by her siblings, Evelyn Urbina, Billy Dennis, Sammy Dennis (Joyce), and Linda Jaynes (Larry); granddaughter, Beth (Richie) Pettus; three grandchildren, Allie and Ella Grace, and McKenzie; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers will be Lynn Robbins, Tommy Posey, Lane Jaynes, Steve Urbina, Richie Pettus, and Payden Jeffreys.
Special thanks to the nurses and staff of Neighborhood at Sheffield Assisted Living and to Lauderdale Christian Nursing Home.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Building Fund at Valley Grove Baptist Church.
Thomas Ed
Masterson, 86
Tom Ed Masterson passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 16, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.
He is survived by his wife, Opal Masterson; his children, Janet Masterson-Sexton (Scott), and Stephen Masterson (Tanya); and his stepson, Keith Poston (Brenda); sisters, Bertha Masterson, Dene Briggs, and Beth McCormack (Woodie).
He was preceded in death by his son, Brian Masterson; parents, Vinnett and Reba Masterson.
He was the proud grandfather of Sydney Masterson, Shelby Sexton, Ben Sexton, Kensey Dagson, Kaylee Thompson, and great-grandson Jonah Thompson.
Tom Ed will be remembered for his incredible work ethic and his unwavering commitment to providing for his family at any cost. A lifelong resident of Leighton, Alabama, he was the son, grandson, and great-grandson of a long line of farmers. Farming wasn’t simply his livelihood—it was his heritage and his joy. He took deep pride in his land, in caring for his animals, and in the quiet rhythm of country life. He loved his community and was happiest when working the land, watching the seasons turn, and knowing his hard work provided for those he loved.
Visitation for Tom Ed will be held at Colbert Memorial Chapel in Tuscumbia, Alabama, at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 20, followed by the funeral ceremony at 11:00 a.m. and burial at the gravesite at 11:45 a.m. in Colbert Memorial Gardens.
Howard
Christian Staggs, 44
Howard “Hank” Christian Staggs age 44 of Leighton, passed away on October 16, 2025, due to injuries from a vehicle accident. Visitation and Service will be held on Tuesday October 21, 2025, at Williams Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 12:30pm until 2:00pm, with services to follow at 2:00pm. Mitchell Hallmark officiating.
He is preceded in death by his son Ethan Staggs. His father Howard Wilson Staggs. His grandparents: Claude and Etta Mae Staggs and Charles and Opal Vaughan.
Hank is survived by his mother Kay Vaughan, sister Spring Willingham, his special friend Takaya Warren Staggs, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Hank enjoyed Auburn football, but as this season was unfolding, he was considering going back to the Texas Longhorns. He enjoyed playing video games and spending time with his friends. Hank was a truck driver by trade.
James Edward Hester, 94
James Edward Hester, 94, of Tuscumbia, passed away on Monday, October 13, 2025.
Steven Ray
Watson, 77
Steven Ray Watson, a devoted servant of God, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on October 13, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee at the age of 77.
Born March 28, 1948 to the late Alton Ray Watson and Norma Dee Watson of Gadsden Alabama, Steve grew up with a deep faith and an abiding sense of purpose. He attended Freed Hardeman University before graduating from David Lipscomb University in Nashville Tennessee in 1970 with a Bachelor of Arts in Bible. Steve later earned a Master’s Degree in New Testament from Harding Graduate School of Religion in Memphis, Tennessee.
In 1969, Steve married his college sweetheart, Jane Walker, in her hometown of Tuscumbia, Alabama. Together they shared 56 wonderful years of marriage, raising two daughters and two sons.
A lifelong servant of God and faithful shepherd to many, Steve dedicated his life to proclaiming the gospel—both as a preacher and as a missionary—sharing the message of hope and salvation across the United States and around the world. With a heart for reaching anyone willing to listen, he faithfully testified about his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Steve began his ministry in the South, preaching for several years before answering a call to serve as a missionary in London, England. After four years abroad, he, Jane, and their growing family returned to the United States where he began ministering at the Littleton Church of Christ in Littleton, Colorado. Following a decade of service there, they moved back to the South, where Steve would go on to preach at the Campus View Church of Christ in Athens, Georgia, a role he held faithfully for eighteen years.
Over the course of his forty-three-year preaching ministry, Steve also participated in short-term mission trips, spreading the gospel in places such as Trinidad and Tobago, Fiji, Nigeria, Guatemala, India, Guyana and beyond, often bringing his children along to share in the experience. Steve also spent some time teaching in Tauranga, New Zealand at the South Pacific Bible College. His passion for missions and evangelism touched countless lives around the globe.
After his retirement from full time preaching, Steve and Jane settled in Burns, Tennessee.
Retirement, however, did little to diminish Steve’s passion for serving others. What began as a chance encounter with a young man from Venezuela at a local Home Depot soon blossomed into a deeply personal and impactful mission. Moved by the needs of a struggling nation, Steve and Jane, supported by a growing network of generous partners, transformed a few boxes of donated food into a thriving ministry.
With humility and unwavering dedication, they organized efforts to send monthly shipments of food, medicine, and clothing to communities across Venezuela, with a special focus on caring for children. Even in his later years, Steve embraced this new chapter of ministry with the same faith, energy, and compassion that had defined his life. His love for the Lord and for people knew no boundaries—of distance, difficulty, or age.
Steve is survived by his wife, Jane Walker Watson, and his four children: Julia Curl (Ira) of Bahama, North Carolina; Amy Coleman (Lee) of Greenwood, Mississippi; Jon Watson (Jennifer) of Nashville, Tennessee; and Ben Watson (Brittany) of Burns, Tennessee. He was the proud grandfather of Sam, Sarah, Anna, and Daniel Curl; Madeleine (Michael Sykes), Walker (Karen Coleman), Claire (Max Cioffi), Victoria, Merrick, and Maya Coleman; Emma (Sutton McGehee), Luke, Carter, and Margaret Watson; and Sydney and Avery Watson. He was also blessed to know and love four great-grandchildren: Ben, James, and Luke Sykes, and John Cioffi.
He is also survived by his brothers Danny Watson (Cathy) of Birmingham, Alabama, and Scott Watson (Kay) of Pensacola, Florida.
Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on Saturday, November 15th at 11:00 a.m. at Harpeth Hills Church of Christ in Brentwood, Tennessee. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. Honorary pallbearers are Sam Curl, Daniel Curl, Walker Coleman, Merrick Coleman, Luke Watson, Carter Watson, Michael Sykes, Max Cioffi, and Sutton McGehee.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:
Pegram Church of Christ Venezuela Missions
Post Office Box 439
Pegram, TN 37143
Sharon Lynn Jones Miller, 70
Sharon Lynn Miller, 70, of Tuscumbia, AL passed away on Wednesday, Oct 8, 2025. Visitation will be held on Friday, Oct 17, 2025, from 5-7 pm at Colbert Memorial Chapel. A service will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 12 pm. Burial will be in Colbert Memorial Gardens. On Wednesday, October 08, 2025, Ms. Sharon Lynn Miller departed her life at home surrounded by family in Tuscumbia, Alabama. She was born in Lauderdale County, Alabama. Lynn accepted Christ at an early age and joined Calvary Missionary Baptist Church; and later joined New Bethel Ame Church Sheffield, Alabama. She was preceded in death by her late husband, Sammie D. Miller, Sr., mother, Katie Pearl Hill, father, William Henry Jones, and her sisters, Yolanda Wright, Sarah Jackson, Virginia Summerhill and Sharon Foster; and three brothers, William Young, Percy Thompson and Edward Young. She leaves to cherish her memories: two daughters, Berlinetta (Greg) Jones of Muscle Shoals, Alabama, Shekayla Jones of Tuscumbia, Alabama; one stepson, Sammie Miller, Jr., of Tuscumbia, Alabama; one stepdaughter, Jewell Lewis of Tuscumbia, Alabama; four sisters, Annie Little, Ericka Robinson, Gayzell (James) Pride, Cardelia (Kenisha) Brown, Mary Jean (McKinley) Jackson of Tuscumbia, Alabama; Annie (Willie) Morris of Tuscumbia, Alabama; one brother, Percy (Alice) Jones of Florence, Alabama, Ronald (Jenette) Little, Morris (Gloria) Little, Jr.; two sisters-in-law, Nola Tutwiler and Corene Montgomery; one special brother-in-law, Melvin Geater; two granddaughters, Jasmine Jones and Raven Jones; one grandson, Raylen Hampton, and one great granddaughter, Hazel Cole, along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends, including devoted nephews Earl Jackson, Bernard Jackson, Orenthel Summerhill, Sr., and Don McGee, Jr.
