July 4 obituaries
William “Eric” Grissom, 55
William “Eric” Grissom, age 55, of Tuscumbia, Alabama, passed away on June 20, 2026. Services were private.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Florence Virgina Grissom; father, Robert Wesley Grissom; sister, Alica Mae Grissom; and baby brother, Robbie Grissom.
Eric is survived by his wife, Melissa Grissom; children, Britney Grissom, Destiny Grissom, Marissa Grissom, Nathan Grissom, and Breanna Griffin; big brother, Eugene Goforth; grandchildren, Kaylee Mason, Wesley Mason, and Rae Lynn Kimbrell.
Eric loved his chickens and found great joy in spending time with them in the yard each day. He was a devoted husband, father, and friend to many. His love for his family and friends was unwavering, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will forever be watching over those he loved.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who cared for Eric throughout his life. He was, and always will be, an extraordinary man whose kindness, strength, and love will never be forgotten.
Martha McCargo Sellers, 79
Martha McCargo Sellers (Marline) passed away from her earthly home on June 17, 2026, at the age of 79 after an extended illness. Marline lived her life with an unwavering trust in God, and through every season she always remained faithful. Her relationship with the Lord was not just something she spoke about, it was something she lived every day. She was a 1964 graduate of Anniston High School. She graduated from Birmingham Southern College with a Bachelor’s of Education. While at BSC, she was a treasured member of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. She obtained her Master’s of Education at the University of North Alabama. She was one of the founders of The First United Methodist Church Day Care Program in the Shoals Area. She worked at Shoals Christian School as a teacher and principal for over 30 years. She sang joyfully in the Shoals Praise and Worship Choir and the Mother Singers. She was a founding member of Zeta Tau Alpha (Eta Rho Chapter) at the University of North Alabama and loved instilling Godly truths in the women she encountered. She touched countless lives through her kindness, compassion, and servant’s heart. She never stopped looking for ways to help others, encourage those who were struggling, and she honestly said “I love you” to almost everyone she met. Her generosity was not measured by what she gave, but by the love with which she gave it. Whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or a faithful prayer, she made a lasting impact that will continue to be felt for generations. She loved her country and was a true patriot of America. She was an advocate for defending the truth and fought for what was right in our country and the world. She demonstrated to us importance of maintaining the earth to sustain His Glory. She was a nature lover and traveled with her family to many National Parks across this nation. By doing this she exemplified the importance of taking care of God’s creation.
She was survived by her loving husband of 57 years Dr Jack Sellers, her two loving daughters Allison Sellers and Jennifer Adams (Mike), her three cherished grandsons Jacob Adams, Blake Adams, and Zach Adams, her three devoted brothers Bill McCargo (Kathy), Avrea McCargo (Mark), and Virgil McCargo, her wonderful niece and nephew, Brooke Haynes (Jason) and Adam McCargo, as well as a host of phenomenal cousins and family members.
She is preceded in death by her parents DeWitt and Dorothy McCargo, and her brother Dee McCargo.
The family will would like to acknowledge the unwavering service provided by Elder Care Services, Caring Place of the Shoals, and Compassus Hospice. You have become part of our family, and we are forever indebted for the impeccable care you all provided for Marline.
While our hearts grieve her absence, we rejoice in knowing that her faith has become sight. She spent her life loving and serving God, and now she rests in His presence. We will carry on her legacy by loving God wholeheartedly, serving others selflessly, taking care of the world that God has given us, cherishing our families deeply, and living with purpose and faith. We love you, Mimi!
The family will hold a private gathering after cremation and plan to celebrate her life on July 25, 2026, at Christ Chapel (3501 Cloverdale Road, Florence, Al). Visitation with family will be from 1:00pm to 2:30pm and a Celebration of Life Service will begin at 2:30pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Caring Place of the Shoals (210 Marengo St., Suite 1, Florence, Al 35630 or at www.caringplaceshoals.org)
Robin Lamar Holtzclaw, 59
Rob was born July 8th, 1966, to Margie and Michael Holtzclaw along with sisters Dawn and Michelle Holtzclaw. Rob attended Riverdale High where he became an avid swimmer as well as wrestler and met his high school sweetheart and first wife Tammy Cooper. After graduating high school Rob joined the United States Air Force reaching the rank of Sergeant as an air traffic control man. After serving in the Air Force Rob became a Cobb County Sheriff Deputy, meeting the men and women that would become lifelong friends. Rob was a part of many teams including drug lab, undercover narcotics and various leadership positions within the jail itself where he honorably retired from at the rank of Lieutenant.
Rob enjoyed golf as his favorite pastime, he brought his love for this to many of his friends introducing them to the greatest game ever played. Rob spent most of his time playing at Creekside Country Club in Paulding County Ga but loved to travel to enjoy the sport in other states. Rob also loved playing the guitar and could often be found playing on the back porch of their family home, especially during rainy nights. Rob and Tammy raised two children Jacob and Haley Holtzclaw, Jacob their first born was always taught the pillars that made an honorable man. To Rob that was honor, integrity, duty and commitment. These same pillars follow Jacob to this day as he leads teams as his father had before him and joining the Army National Guard to serve his country. Haley was always a bright child and was taught to be the smartest person in the room, to study, be bright, and to be strong. These teachings have helped her achieve what Rob always wanted, which was for his children to live better lives than he did.
After Rob and Tammy’s divorce in 2010, Rob began a new and exciting relationship with Veronica Mason. The two were nearly inseparable, enjoying the same hobbies, going on spectacular vacations and overall completing each other. The two eventually moved from Georgia to Muscle Shoals, Alabama and established the famous Shack, where they enjoyed numerous hobbies including shooting, local foods and riding ATVs (and of course having a world-famous golf course nearby was a plus as well). Their lovely relationship also brought another gift, Alexandria Mason. Alex has often been described by Rob as one of the hardest working people, respectful, sweet and intelligent. Alex was a stepchild, but their relationship was anything but. The love they had for each other needed no explanation, Rob always showed so much pride for Alex and one quick walk around their home would reveal numerous letters and cards simply stating “love you dad”- Alex.
Rob is survived by his lovely wife Veronica Holtzclaw, his two children Jacob Holtzclaw and Haley Pfotzer, his 6 grandchildren: Evelynn and Charlotte Holtzclaw, Hayden Wills, as well as Millie, Callan and Cooper Pfotzer and stepdaughter Alexandria Mason.
In Lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Judes Children’s Hospital, it is a foundation Rob has always supported and know this is what he would have always wanted.
Edith L.
Laster, 87
Edith L. Laster, 87, passed away on Monday, June 22, 2026. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date.
She is preceded in death by her husband, William Hayes Laster; parents, Greenberry and Haddie Mae Fuller; daughter, Jackie Wilkerson; sisters, Mildred Aday, Lois Treadway, Joyce Ann Patterson; brothers, Brimp Fuller, Dill Fuller, Thomas Fuller, Hollis Fuller, Ricky Fuller.
She is survived by her son, Duce Laster (Anna); grandchildren, Nicole Hallmark (Jason), Trei Laster, Tyler Laster (Rebekah), Brittnay Laster; great-grandchildren, Jackson Hallmark, Sawyer Hallmark, Axel Romans, Atlas Laster; special niece, Ann Boyd; special friend, Debora Robinson.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
James Samuel Dodson, Jr., 66
James Samuel “Sammy” Dodson Jr., 66, of Muscle Shoals, AL passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026 from 10 am- 12 pm at Old Brick Presbyterian Church with a service to follow at 12 pm. Dr. Ron Ethridge and Bro. Carl Malm will be officiating. Burial will be in Colbert Memorial Gardens.
Sammy was president of Hendrix Glass Service, Inc. and an Elder at Old Brick Presbyterian Church. He was also a graduate of Auburn University and a member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. He will be deeply missed by all who loved him.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Dodson and infant son, Jamie Dodson.
He is survived by his wife, Alison Dodson; sons, Austin Dodson (Amy) and Charlie Dodson; father, James Samuel Dodson, Sr; father-in-law, Bob Hendrix; sister, Lisa Teal (Butch); grandchildren, Emmett and Nora Dodson; beloved nieces and nephew.
Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Fraternity Brother of Lambda Chi Alpha.
William Ned Campbell, Jr., 70
William Ned Campbell Jr., Major, U.S. Army, Retired, known to all as Dan, was born on March 9, 1956, and entered his heavenly home on June 22, 2026. The visitation will be 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Friday, June 26, 2026, at Morrison Funeral Home in Tuscumbia. The service will follow in the chapel at 1:00 p.m. The burial will be at Glendale Cemetery in Leighton.
Dan was a graduate of Colbert County High School (Class of 1974), where he played on the state championship-winning football team.
His collegiate years began at Auburn University, where he played football his freshman year. Dan continued his education at the University of North Alabama (Class of 1983), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in political science.
A retired U.S. Army major, Dan devoted his career to serving and protecting the country he loved so dearly.
Dan is survived by his devoted wife of 46 years, Dian. Their relationship began when they were teenagers and blossomed into nearly five decades of loving marriage. Dan and Dian were blessed with four children, Morgan (Jacob), Rebekah (Wayne), Daniel, and Mackenzie (Blake); six grandchildren, Kaleigh, Bryce, Weston (“Big Daddy’s Wiggy Boy”), Audree, Addi Kate, and Will; beloved nieces and nephews; and special friends, Phil and Kay Moss.
Dan had a great appreciation for music and especially enjoyed playing the guitar and listening to The Beatles. He and a few friends formed the musical group “Band of Brothers” and provided entertainment whenever possible.
Dan was kind, loving, and deeply empathetic. People were drawn to him because he was a truly good soul, always willing to lend a helping hand. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
The family wishes to extend a special thank-you to Amedisys Hospice; particularly Carmen, Anna, and Leslie for their compassionate care and support. They would also like to thank the Town of Leighton, Mayor Silcox, and the Wallace family. It was in Leighton where their love first blossomed and where they chose to make their forever home.
Larry Harvie Smith, 79
Larry Harvie Smith, age 79, of Florence, passed away on Monday, June 22, 2026. A memorial service will be held at 3:30 p.m. Friday, June 26, 2026, at Morrison Funeral Home in Tuscumbia with military honors.
He proudly served his nation in the U.S. Navy. He worked as a purchasing agent at Muscle Shoals Minerals. He was a Navy Diver, Torpedoman, and a dive instructor.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Earline Hammond Smith; father, Harvie Smith; and brothers, Jerry & Bobby Smith.
He is survived by his wife, Philis Lewis Smith; daughter, April Wright (Terry); brother, Derance Smith; grandchildren, Austin Wright (Daven), Alana Wright; and great-grandchild, Stetson Wright.
Linda Faye Crowden, 72
Linda Faye Crowden, age 72, of Tuscumbia, passed away on June 23, 2026, at Helen Keller Hospital. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, 25, 2026 at Oakwood Cemetery in Tuscumbia with Tommy Crowden officiating the service.
She was a lifelong resident of Colbert County and was a graduate of Deshler High School.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Curtis and Kathleen (Arnold) Crowden.
She leaves to cherish her memories, her siblings, Jerry Crowden (Darlene), Kathy Brown (Jack); nieces, Leslie Scogin, Jennifer Crowden; several great nieces and nephews; and special friend, Missy Bates.
William
Harrison Turman, 71
William Harrison Turman, Jr., age 71 of Florence, passed away on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at North Alabama Medical Center. He was born on April 6, 1955, in Sheffield, Alabama. The visitation will be 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Morrison Funeral Home in Tuscumbia. The funeral will be at 2:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Bro. Larry Kilpatrick officiating the service. The burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Sheffield.
He was a retired boilermaker in the Local 455. He was a member of Cox Blvd Church of Christ and was a mason in the Masonic Lodge #503.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Judy Pierce Turman; his father, William Harrison Turman, Sr.; mother, JoAnn Moore Turman; grandparents, aunts, and uncles.
He is survived by his wife, Carey Turman; daughter, April Goodson (Rob), stepson, Kevin Burton; stepdaughter, Kelly Singleton (Bo Smith); and aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Pallbearers will be William’s Boilermaker brothers: Greg Harper, Dale Cooper, Bear Hampton, Virgil Howard, Johnny Stout, and Gary Hamilton.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to any animal shelter or pet rescue of your choice.
Wanda Jean Bates, 61
Wanda Jean Bates, age 61, of Sheffield, passed away on June 23, 2026, at her residence. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
She is survived by her husband, Jackie Lee Bates; grandson, Brayden Stutts; “Mom” Bonnie Bates; sister-in-law, Shannon Murray (Thomas), stepdaughter, Aundrea Weeks (Ken); eight other grandchildren; special friend, Donna Peebles; and fur babies, Chloe, Bella, Lacey, Betty Boop, and Paisley.
Shirley Estelle Oliver Nelson, 77
Shirley Estelle Oliver Nelson, age 77, of Sheffield, passed away on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at Cypress Cove Nursing Home in Muscle Shoals. The visitation will be 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Morrison Funeral Home, Tuscumbia. The funeral will be at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel with Kenny Windsor officiating. The burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Tuscumbia.
She is preceded in death by her daughter, Melissa Oliver; grandson, Josh Oliver; parents, William Johnny McBrayer and Lydia Lee Morris; brothers, Leonard McBrayer, James McBrayer, and Preston McBrayer; and sister, Elsie Gilliland.
She is survived by her son, Duane Oliver; brother, Johnny McBrayer; granddaughter-in-law, Christina Oliver; great-grand-child, Micah Vess, Ashton Oliver, Nevaeh Oliver, and Memphis Oliver.
Friends and family will serve as pallbearers.
Paul Eugene Wright, 86
Paul Eugene “Gene” Wright, 86, of Morris, passed away on Friday, June 26, 2026. Visitation will be Wednesday, July 1, 2026, beginning at 12:30 until 1:00 at Morrison Funeral Home in Tuscumbia with the funeral service immediately following in the funeral home chapel. Pat Driskell will officiate the service. The burial with military honors will follow the service in Mt. Olive Cemetery in Hodges.
Gene was born in Gobbler, Missouri. He was a United States Air Force Veteran serving in the Vietnam War. Gene was a Millwright and Bull Gang Leader with U.S. Steel. He enjoyed traveling, fishing and wandering the woods.
He was preceded in death by his son, Paul “Mike” Wright; parents, Albert and Grace Wright; and brother, Jerry Wright.
Gene is survived by his son, Mark Allen Wright (wife, Rhonda); daughter, Laura Grace Bushey (husband, Douglas); Brothers, James Rodney Wright and Douglas Alan Wright; sister, Evelyn Lucille Carpenter; Uncle Neal Lipsey; grandchildren, James R. Wilson III and Lauren N. Wilson; great grandchildren, Effy and Stella Wilson; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Pallbearers will be Mark Wright, James R. Wilson III, Vaughn Scott Carpenter, Tony Cosby, Douglas Bushey, and Tyler Cosby.
The family expresses special thanks to the Palliative Care Unit at the V.A. Hospital in Birmingham, and Margaret Martin and Shelly Sanchez for their loving care of Gene.
In lieu of flowers please make donation to the Wounded Warrior Project at www. support.woundedwarriorproject.org.
Carolyn Marie Thompson, 85
Carolyn Marie Thompson was born on August 18, 1940, in Cherokee, Alabama, to Sam Thompson, Jr. and Marie Helen Davis Thompson. She departed this life on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at the age of 85 in Cherokee, Alabama.
Carolyn was a faithful member of Rutland Chapel C.M.E. Church.
In October 1955, Carolyn married Omar Gene Goodloe. To this union, seven wonderful children were born: Joyce, Debra, Derrick, Freda, Bridgette, Beryl, and Daron.
Carolyn was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother.
She was a wonderful cook who enjoyed R&B music, puzzles, and word searches.
She was lovingly known as NaNa, Na, YaYa, and Grannie.
Carolyn leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Joyce Chatman (the late Ray Chatman) of Florence, Alabama, and Freda, Bridgette, and Beryl Goodloe (the late Cameron Goodloe) of Cherokee, Alabama; and her son, Daron Goodloe of Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
She is also survived by her grandchildren, Michael (Jennifer) Goodloe of Cherokee, Alabama; Derrick (Kristyn) Chatman, Jori Chatman, and Jamey (Carsen) Johnson of Florence, Alabama; and Michael Johnson.
She is survived by her son-in-law, Percy Johnson (the late Debra Goodloe Johnson).
Carolyn is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Eugenia (Ian) Rucker of Birmingham, Alabama; Mykel and Jayden Goodloe of Cherokee, Alabama; David and Noah Chatman, Laeloni Johnson, Hazel Johnson, Ci’Lah Stewart, and Micah Stewart of Florence, Alabama.
She leaves four great-great-grandchildren: Elijah, India, Ivy, and Aubrey Rucker.
She is survived by her sister, Betty Goodloe of Cherokee, Alabama; and her brothers, Larry (Lois) Thompson of Cherokee, Alabama, and Frederick (Janice) Thompson of Mauldin, South Carolina.
She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Omar Gene Goodloe; her father, Sam Thompson, Jr.; her mother, Marie Helen Thompson; her daughter, Debra Jean Goodloe Johnson; her son, Derrick Edison Goodloe; her sister, Barbara Gambell; her niece, Janet Yvonne Goodloe; her sons-in-law, Ray Chatman and Cameron Goodloe; and her grandson, Percy Leon Johnson II
Robert Earl
Garner, 82
Robert Earl Garner was born on July 10, 1943, in the small community of Sugarhill, Alabama, located in Lauderdale County, to the late Willie James Garner and Eva Louise Garner. He was one of eleven children and was blessed with a life filled with faith, family, friendship, and service.
Robert was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He was a hardworking man who spent many years employed within the industrial industry, faithfully providing for his family and leading by example. He believed in the value of honest work, integrity, and treating others with kindness and respect.
One of Robert’s greatest joys was serving the Lord. He loved his church and found tremendous joy in singing praises unto God. His faith was the foundation of his life, and his love for gospel music touched the hearts of those who worshipped alongside him. Whether through song, fellowship, or quiet acts of kindness, Robert demonstrated a servant’s heart and a steadfast commitment to his faith.
Above all else, Robert cherished his family. He shared a beautiful life and lasting love with his beloved wife, Brit Ella Garner. Together they built a legacy rooted in faith, love, and devotion to family. Their home was filled with laughter, encouragement, and treasured memories that will live on through generations.
Robert was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Brit Ella Garner; his sons, Donald Earl Garner and Ricardo Carroll; his parents, Willie James Garner and Eva Louise Garner; his siblings, Johnnie Snell, Andrew J., George L., Willie C., Eugene, and sisters Mary Sue Willis, and Mattie Louise Grimes, and other loved ones who welcomed him into eternal rest.
On June 17, 2026, Robert peacefully transitioned from labor to reward, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy of faith that will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.
He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Dr. Varilie Garner of Madison, Alabama; Sequieta Garner Young of Atlanta, Georgia; Leslie James Garner of Muscle Shoals, Alabama, and Cornell Carroll, Florence, Alabama; his brothers, Reverend Otis Garner and Charles Garner; his brother-in-law, Sister, Bessie A. Garner, Reverend Jacob Earl Malone (Annie Malone); sisters-in-law, Ella Mae Garner, Diana Chatman (Lee Chatman) and Remalle Burnett (William Burnett); grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; cousins; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that Robert’s earthly journey is complete and that he is now reunited with the love of his life, singing praises before the Lord he faithfully served.
Carlean Holiday Humes, 89
Carlean Holiday Humes, age 89, of Florence, Alabama, was born in Riverton, Alabama, to the late Hezekiah Holiday and Mary Holiday. She was a proud graduate of Cherokee High School and later completed nursing school. Carlean devoted 40 years of faithful service in nursing at Eliza Coffee Memorial. She especially enjoyed sewing and loved patterns and materials, often spending her money on fabric and supplies for her next creation.
Carlean was a devoted member of the Eastside Church of Christ in Florence. Brother James Gray was the minister, and she dearly loved Brother and Sister Gray.
She was preceded in death by her son, Willie Eric Long; brothers, Milbert Holiday, Charles Holiday, Henry Holiday, Dexter Holiday, and Thomas Holiday.
She leaves to cherish her memory three children: Harrison Humes Jr. (Ruth), Lynn Humes (Shacy), and Sarita (Chris) Thompson; eleven grandchildren: Erica (Karey) Smith, Candice Long, Bobby (Demyia) Harris, Alina Humes, Ciera Thompson, Donovan Allen, Issac Humes, Jessica Zaragoza, Aaron Micheal (Jackie), Camaya Doxie, and Joseph Thompson; five great-grandchildren: Eric Giles, Bryon Ashlock, Jr., Cadence Nix, Kenzie Smith, and Dhvani Harris; her sister, Johnnie Cooper; her sister-in-law, Ann Holiday; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
