Jan. 10 obituaries

 

Elizabeth Hyde Jackson, 93

Elizabeth Hyde Jackson passed away peacefully at her home on December 25, 2025, in Muscle Shoals at the age of 93. Christmas was her favorite day of the year so what a fitting day for her to go to her heavenly home. Her hus­band, Bernard, and daugh­ter, Beth were by her side.

Elizabeth went by many names, Lizbeth to her mom, Libba to her dad, Lib to her brothers, Libby to her husband and friends, Liz­zie to her sister in law, Mom or Momma to her children, Grandmother to her three treasured grand­children and great grand­children, Aunt Lib or Aunt Libby to countless nieces and nephews, and she was crowned Miss Libby in the 1980’s by neighbors, John and LeAnn McReynolds.

Libby had a genuine good­ness about her that drew oth­ers to her. She was sweet, kind, gentle, fun, and most always smiling or laughing. She was a beloved wife, mom, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, pet mom and dear friend to so many.

Libby was born to John and Mettie Hyde on March 28, 1932 in Sheffield, AL. She was the 2nd of 4 chil­dren and the only daugh­ter. Her father worked for Southern Railway for 50 years and one of Libby’s favorite and fondest memo­ries was riding the train to Chattanooga and Memphis with her mom and brothers. She remembered taking her brother Bill to the Mem­phis Zoo on several occa­sions. She also loved going to “the picture show” as she called it and marveled that movie prices had gone up from the 10 cents they were in the 1940’s! She always told her children that she was thankful she had grown up when she did because times were simpler and safe.

Libby had 3 brothers who she loved dearly, John Jr., Bill, and Allen. She and Bernard named their sec­ond son John William Allen (Bill) after her brothers. Lib­by spent most of her child­hood in the beautiful family home on Park Blvd. across from the TN river. She often recalled fond memories of playing and building forts in the wooded areas around Park Blvd. with her friends Lesie Crowson and Pat Mar­tin. She graduated as Salu­tatorian of her class from Sheffield High School in 1950. She attended college for one semester at Florence State, but then took a job at TVA and eventually worked at Colbert Steam Plant.

Libby met Bernard Jack­son when they were ele­mentary students in Shef­field. She remembered him coming to her class to read when he was a 6th grader and she was a 5th grader. She was very impressed with how well he read! Years later they were two single people at a friend’s wedding. Six months later they married on November 29, 1953, and were com­pletely devoted to one an­other for the next 72 years.

Libby and Bernard spent two years at Fort Knox, KY when Bernard served in the Army. There Libby took a job as the secretary to the Chief of Surgery. She was very thankful that she had taken Latin in high school, as it helped her tran­scribe surgeries that were dictated by the surgeons.

Libby and Bernard even­tually moved to Birming­ham where Bernard attend­ed UAB Dental School. They arrived with one child, Carle Bernard, Jr. and left with three! Bill was born in 1960, followed by daugh­ter Elizabeth Hyde (Beth) 20 months later in 1962.

They decided to settle in Russellville where a den­tist was needed and it was also close to Libby’s par­ents in Sheffield. During the 1960’s and 70’s, Libby was busy raising 3 children and seeing to the needs of her own parents. She was a den mother to Carle’s and Bill’s cub scout troops, she was in­volved in the PTA, and she was active at First United Methodist Church. As her children got older and were more independent, she and a friend, Anne Sparks, opened a needlework store, The Spider Web in downtown Russellville. Libby made beautiful needlepoint pic­tures, pillows, and Christ­mas stockings for her three grandchildren. She helped sew the needlepoint kneelers at First Methodist Church in Sheffield where she and Ber­nard had married and where her mother was still active. She also did cross stitch and taught many classes on nee­dlepoint and cross stitch.

Libby thoroughly en­joyed all holidays, especial­ly Christmas, and collected many decorations through­out the years. Her home was always festive and cheery and she welcomed friends and family into her home to share her wonderful cheese straws and other delicious goodies. In the 1980’s she decided to dress up as a witch at Halloween to the delight of the neighborhood children. She did get scold­ed one year when she unwit­tingly scared a little trick or treater with her witch’s nose and scary music! At Easter she had bunnies everywhere and she even dressed up as the Easter Bunny for the church egg hunt when her grandsons were young. For July 4, she loved a good fire­works show and played the 1812 overture at full volume!

In 1998, Libby and Ber­nard made a big move to the coast of Alabama where they had vacationed for many years. It was a major downsize and move, but they lived in Gulf Shores for 19 years and had lots of new adventures, made new friends, and started new tra­ditions with their children and grandchildren. While there, they opened an an­tique shop called Cobwebs, but for only a year. Hurri­cane Ivan came through in ‘94 and they were forced to close. Libby found a job at the Brown Mule antique store which allowed her to continue to help others with antiques and special finds.

Libby and Bernard en­joyed countless visits from their children and grand­children during their years in Gulf Shores. They also had visits from many friends from “up north”, Russellville and the Shoals area. Libby was President of Parkview Condominium Association for several years and got to know and socialize with spe­cial friends there. She and Bernard rode bikes, went to the beach to watch sunsets, and frequented Sea ‘N Suds quite often! In 2017 they decided it was time to move closer to their daughter and her family. From 2017-2022, Libby and Bernard lived in Winder, GA. This was a spe­cial time because they made it special. Wherever they went or wherever they lived, Libby and Bernard enjoyed life, adventures, neighbors, and each other. They always found an antique market, a special restaurant, or some­thing new to experience. They always had a good time together! They were happy to move back to the Shoals area, “home,” in 2022.

Libby had a wide cir­cle of friends and she was dearly loved by all of them. She was fun, outgoing, and adventurous. She loved to travel with Bernard and friends and some of her fa­vorites were trips to Spain, England, Scotland, Hawaii, New York, San Francisco, Nova Scotia, Vancouver, and many other places. She was a fan of Broadway musicals, the symphony, plays, and music. She loved to read, work crossword puzzles, and watch movies. Libby had a soft spot for animals and let her children adopt any stray that came along. Her home was rarely without the com­panionship of a dog or cat.

Libby will be remembered for her genuine and honest sweetness, kindness, and all around goodness. She never complained and always put the needs of others before herself. She never failed to say, “be careful” when you walked out of her house, even if you were only going to the mailbox! She was a devoted and loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grand­mother, aunt, and friend. Her memory will live in our hearts and minds forever.

Libby is survived by her husband of 72 years, Ber­nard Jackson, son Carle Jackson (Regina), daughter Beth Ritchie (David), grand­son Alex Ritchie, grandson Jamie Ritchie (Lauren), granddaughter Savannah Little (Jack), daughter in law Tammy Stone, great grand­children, Charlotte, Parks, and Liles Little, and great grandson, Callum Ritchie.

She is preceded in death by her parents John and Met­tie Hyde, brothers John, Bill, and Allen Hyde, and son Bill Jackson. Libby always said she lived a wonderful, full and happy life, but the one great sadness in her life was losing her precious son, Bill.

The family would like to give special thanks to Hos­pice of North Alabama, es­pecially Katie and Lisa, El­der Care with special thanks to Haley who all provided loving and gentle care. We would like to thank Rev. Jaina Glaize and First Pres­byterian Church of Sheffield for their love, kindness and visits. Lastly, we would like to thank Patsy McReynolds, mom’s best friend, who has been an angel on earth. She has been constant in her vis­its, calls, gifts, and presence.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make a donation to First Presbyterian Church Be­nevolence fund or St. Ju­de’s Hospital in Memphis, whom mom and dad have supported for many years.

A Memorial Service for Libby will be held on Jan­uary 9 at First Presbyterian Church, Sheffield. Visi­tation will be from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. with the service immediately fol­lowing. Family and friends are invited to come cele­brate and remember Libby..

Ty Rutland Thompson, 57

Ty Rutland Thompson, 57, of Florence, passed away on Sunday, Decem­ber 28, 2025. Visitation will be Friday, January 2, from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. at Morri­son Funeral Home, Tuscum­bia. The funeral service will immediately follow in the funeral home chapel with Ernest Emmons officiating. Interment will be in Oak­wood Cemetery, Tuscumbia.

Ty worked as a locomo­tive engineer with Norfolk Southern Railway for thir­ty-five years. He served as General Local Chairman of BLET Local 423 for fif­teen years and was a mem­ber of Sheffield Masonic Lodge 503 for thirty years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Dewanna Thompson.

Ty is survived by his lifetime best friend and the mother of his children, Te­lina Thompson; children, Jennifer Ezekiel (Derek) and Grayson Thompson; brother, Todd Thompson (Lisa); sister, Monaire Mur­phy (Richard); brother-in-law, Wesley Hogue (Pam); grandchildren, Kenley Frederick and Sutton Eze­kiel, and several extended Thompson family mem­bers whom he loved dearly.

Pallbearers will be Jack­ie Parrish, Troy Rickard, Bradley Malone, Jason Hall, Todd Sizemore, Tim Beard, Dale Robinson, and Jim Ellison. Andy Elledge, Danny Gardner, and Matt Thompson will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Ty will be remem­bered for his generous heart, immense love for his family, and quick wit.

Amanda Gail Chafin, 67

Amanda Gail Chafin, 67, of Waterloo, passed away, Tuesday, December 30, 2025.

Visitation will be Satur­day, January 3, 2026 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Morrison Funeral Home, Central Heights. The body will lie in repose Sunday, January 4, 2026 at Waterloo Church of Christ from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM. The fu­neral service will begin at 2:00 PM with Wayne Wood officiating. Burial will be at Richardson Cemetery.

Amanda was a life­long resident of Water­loo. She was the Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager at Farmers and Merchants Bank. Amanda was a member of Waterloo Church of Christ. She was preceded in death by her mother, Mae Rose Chafin; brother, Kenneth Chafin.

She is survived by her daughters, Miranda Delaine Simpson and Beth Ann Ray; father, Arnold Delaine Cha­fin (Betty); brother, Mike Chafin (Ann); sister, Amy Barrier (Mark); grandchil­dren, Lainey Annagail Simp­son, Jeremiah Kane Simp­son, Mycah Beth Ray and Ridge Duncan Ray; Numer­ous Nieces and Nephews.

Pallbearers will be Family and friends.

Honorary pallbearers will be Tom Ray and Tommy Ray.

In Lieu of flowers memo­rials may be made to Rich­ardson cemetery fund or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Annie Yvonne Johnson

Davis, 90

Annie Yvonne John­son-Davis, 90, of Chero­kee, passed away peaceful­ly on December 28, 2025.

Yvonne was born on June 6, 1935, in Colbert County, Alabama, to the late Clar­ence Clifton Johnson, and Vesta Sanderson-Johnson.

Yvonne was a graduate of Cherokee High School and a lifetime resident of Cherokee, Alabama. Yvonne had a deep love for her family and found joy in cooking, gardening, bak­ing cakes, and shopping.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of fifty-seven years, Ken­neth “Lightning” Davis; and her sister, Betty Sue Dreher.

Yvonne is survived by her brothers and sister, Clarence Johnson (Linda), Barbara Moye, and Harold Johnson (Donna); sister-in-law, Char­lotte Noe; children, Tammy Woodis (Larry), Kenny Da­vis (Melinda), Mike Davis, and Kim Sledge (Tommy); grandchildren, Sean Woo­dis (Kayla), Michael Ivey (Gina), Jeremy Ivey (Nich­ole), Keela Melton (Jared), Zachary Davis, and Julia Oliver (Justin); great-grand­children, Aubrey, Grayson, and Thomas; and a slew of nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, Decem­ber 31, 2025, at Barton Cem­etery, beginning at 2:00 p.m. with Gary Cosby officiating.

The family is deeply grateful to Dr. Felix Morris, Pulmonologist, and his staff for their kindness, compas­sion, and excellent care.

Yvonne will be deeply missed and forever remem­bered for her stubborn­ness, strength, and unwav­ering love for her family.

Pallbearers will be Sean, Michael, Jeremy, Zach­ary, Justin Oliver, and Boyle Noe. Steve John­son, Harold Brown, Tyson Noe, Lee Williams, and Randy Gowers will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Alice Mae

McCaig, 88

Alice Mae McCaig, 88, Cherokee, passed away Tuesday, December 30, 2025. Visitation will be Fri­day, January 2, from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Morri­son Funeral Home, Chero­kee. The funeral service will immediately follow in the funeral home chapel with Billy George and Dwight Rivers officiating. No grave­side service will be held.

Alice loved cooking, her precious family and her place of worship, Pride Mis­sionary Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Luther McCaig Jr.

Alice is survived by her children, Steve McCaig (Margie), Frankie Mc­Caig and Regina Watkins (Ricky); five grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers are Michael McCaig, Landon Jones, Daryan McCaig, Adam Wat­kins, Jacob Watkins and Shane Dupuy. Honorary pallbearer is Mike Hayes.

Roy Herbert

Sizemore, 74

Roy Herbert Sizemore of Cherokee, Alabama, passed away on January 1, 2026 at the age of 74. He was born on January 4, 1951 to parents Lecil Size­more and Pearlie Lindsey.

Roy graduated from Cher­okee Vocational High School in 1969 and married Donna shortly after. They spent 56 years together building a life they loved with fami­ly being at the center of all they did. Roy was the father to two wonderful children, Todd and Courtney, and was always near to cheer them on in each stage of life.

Roy worked for Norfolk Southern Railroad for 38 injury-free years as a brake­man and conductor. He also served as a Sergeant, U.S. Army Reserve as a military police officer. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing, watching football, cooking for a crowd, teaching his son Todd the love of fishing and hunting, and making sure that every desire of Donna’s and Courtney’s hearts were met. Each summer he would spend hours in his garden working hard to make sure there was enough squash, green beans, and corn to share with all of Barton.

Known as Pop Pop or Poppa, Roy was the proud grandfather to one and be­loved stand-in grandfather to his nieces and nephew. They will remember popsi­cles always stocked in the freezer, fishing on Cane Creek, special trips for gas station treats, family trips to the beach or the moun­tains, and many fun pool days together. He never missed a chance to tell them how proud he was of them.

Roy loved nothing more than taking care of the peo­ple he loved most. Whether it was making sure the cars were full of gas, helping a neighbor with a project, sending everyone home with an extra plate of food, helping care for Mamaw Christine and her house, or sharing free advice, Roy led the way in showing what it looks like to be a good husband, father, and friend.

Roy was a member at Bar­ton First Baptist Church.

Roy is preceded in death by his father Lecil, mother Pearlie Lindsey, mother-in-law Christine Wallace; brother Gary, and sister Donna Smith. Roy is sur­vived by his wife Donna; son Todd (Kim), daughter Courtney; granddaughter Abbie; brothers Clyde (Kay) and Wayne, sister Debo­rah Carrouth; close fami­ly Pam Worsham (Steve); Sarah Beth Shepard (Billy), Beau, Cameron, Kate; Blake Worsham (Emily), Tate and Ava; Samantha Wright; (Parker), Charlie; and other in-laws and their families.

Roy’s funeral will be Monday, January 5 at 2:00 at Morrison’s Funeral Home in Cherokee. Visitation will be held from 12:00-2:00 and a graveside service following the funeral at Barton Cemetery. Pallbear­ers are Tommy Pounders, Mike Wallace, Jason Green, Matt Franks, Scotty Woo­ten, Keith Malone, Brent Malone, Blake Worsham, and honorary pallbearers are Bill Hutton and Dale Smith.

In lieu of flowers, do­nations may be made in Roy’s honor to the Vander­bilt-Ingram Cancer Center for colon cancer research.

James Futrell, 70

James “Bud” Futrell, 70, of Sheffield, passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026. Visitation will be Saturday, January 10, from 12 p.m. until 2 p.m. at Morrison Fu­neral Home, Tuscumbia. A graveside service will fol­low at 2:30 p.m. at Oakwood Cemetery, Sheffield. Other arrangements will be an­nounced by Morrison Funer­al Home, Tuscumbia.

 

Edith Christine McCormack, 93

Edith Christine McCor­mack, 93, of Leighton, went to meet her Lord and Savior surrounded by her loving family. She lived a faithful life filled with love, laughter, service, and deep devotion to God and family. Visitation will be Tuesday, January 6, 2026, from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at Morrison Funeral Home in Tuscumbia with the funeral service immediate­ly following in the funeral home chapel. Michael Smith will officiate the service.

She often said, “God gave me a sweet and wonderful family.” She believed whole­heartedly that she “had been blessed more than most”, and she lived each day to the fullest. With confident faith she would say, “When I get to heaven, they gonna know me.”

She had a gift of laughter and believed it was better than medicine, knowing it could make people forget their troubles, even just for a moment. She had a way of making everyone feel wel­comed and loved. She en­joyed dancing, telling jokes, and sharing stories. She cher­ished her time in the garden and tending her flowers, es­pecially buttercups, which brought her much happiness.

Edith and her husband Loyd shared a beautiful and enduring love story. Togeth­er, they built a life rooted in faith, commitment, and devotion to each other. She treasured her role as his wife, and their love was evident to all who knew them. Together they were founding members of Blythe Memorial Method­ist Church, faithfully serving since 1949. They were also founding members of the White Oak Volunteer Fire Department.

Welcoming her home is the love of her life, Loyd New­some McCormack; son, Wil­liam McCormack; daughter, Regina McCormack; grand­son Andrew Mays; parents, Homer and Ellen Faulkner; and brother, R. D. Faulkner.

She is survived by her daughters, Janet (Clarence) Swinea, Nancy McCormack, and May Ellen (R. L.) Thig­pen; sisters Earlene Cour­ington, Stella Robertson, Della (Ervin) Feret; brothers Jimmy (Helen) Faulkner, and Johnny (Peggy) Faulkner.

She is also survived by her grandchildren Jason (Char­lene) McCormack Glass, Renee (Chris) Wilkinson, Clarence Jr. (Ginny) Swinea, Dale Gasque (Whitney), Ra­chel (Brent) Austin, Leigh Gasque, Cory Blake, Anna (Jared) Allen, Alex Mays, Heather Jackson, Beth (Brad) Long, Jed Glass, and Julia Pearson.

Great-grandchildren Lau­ren (Patrick) Tharp, Jake (Bailey) Wilkinson, Sam Glass, Jon Brody Austin, Blakelyn Austin, Evan Aus­tin, Dylan Blake, Briley Blake, Logan Blake, Jada Gasque, Mason Hayes, Wil­liam Hayes, Paisley Roden, Shelby Allen, Clint (Malana) Swinea, Keith Swinea, Sky­lan Jackson, Kynlee Jackson, Gia Glass, Cayden Harper, Callie Ann (Bailey) Clem­mons, Caleb Pearson, Clara Long, and Will Long.

Great-great grandchildren Dawson Tharp, Josie Tharp, Eleanor Wilkinson, Oliver Wilkinson, Olivia Glass, Uri­ah Swinea, Aris Swinea, and Eliana Swinea.

Cherished family mem­bers and friends Jose Per­alta, Fairy Benson, Marty Ross, Mary Borden, Dorothy Sneed, Diane (Jim) Glass, David (Gwen) Sizemore, Wilda Lowery, Iva Nell, and members of Blythe Memorial Methodist Church.

Pallbearers will be her grandsons.

Special thanks to Hospice of the Shoals nurses, Dan­ielle and Jasmine.

In lieu of flowers the fami­ly request donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospi­tal.

Walter Bryan

Davis, 53

Walter Bryan Davis, 53, of Florence, passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026. Visitation will be Thursday, January 8, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Morison Funeral Home, Central Heights. The funeral service will be at 2 p.m. on Friday, January 9, at Pleasant Hill Church with Pastor Kenny Windsor and Pastor Chris Weldon offici­ating. He will lie-in-state at the church from 1p.m. until 2 p.m. Interment will follow in the adjoining cemetery.

Bryan was a native of Flor­ence and a member of Pleas­ant Hill Church. He was an avid hunter and specifically hunted deer and coon. Bry­an was a loving and devoted husband and father and loved spending time with his kids.

He was preceded in death by his father, Billy Joe Davis.

Bryan is survived by his wife, Amanda Davis; children, Gavin, Timothy, Priscilla, Manny, and Luis “Keke” Davis; mother, Do­ris Davis; brother, Brad Da­vis (Margie); niece, Kaitlin Davis; and nephew, Wyatt Davis.

Pallbearers will be Quen­tin Hendrix, Doug Hendrix, Greg Rhodes, Clint Stults, Drake Roberson, Mason Bush, Todd South, and Trent Poff.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Bry­an Davis Memorial Fund at Pleasant Hill Church.

Ernest Eugene Arnold, Jr., 59

Ernest Eugene “Gene” Ar­nold, Jr. 59, of Athens, passed away on Wednesday, Decem­ber 31, 2025. Visitation will be Monday, January 5, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Morrison Funeral Home, Tuscumbia. A graveside ser­vice will be held on Tuesday, January 6, at Oakwood Cem­etery, Sheffield, beginning at 2:00 p.m. with William Mays officiating.

With the class of 1984, Gene graduated from Wil­son High School, where he played football. He was an electrician with IBEW Local 558, working at Tim Rhodes Electric, Williams Electric, TJ’s Manufacturing, Curtis Electric and other electrical companies. He took great pride in his work and loved to train his apprentices. Gene was an avid Auburn Foot­ball fan. He was preceded in death by his father, Ernest E. Arnold, Sr.

Gene is survived by his sons, Justyn C. Arnold and Wyatt E. Arnold (Lori); mother, Trudy Mays Col­lier; and brother, Jeff Arnold (Heather).

Friends and family will serve as pallbearers.

Allen Wayne West, 64

Allen Wayne West, 64, of Waterloo, passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026. There will be no services at this time.

Allen was a native of Ten­nessee. He loved riding his motorcycle, horseback rid­ing, and fishing and was a loving father and grandfa­ther. Allen was preceded in death by his father, Donnie West.

He is survived by his daughter, Toni Buchanan (Blake); mother, Marilyn Catalano; brother, Phillip West (Gina Barrett); and grandchildren, Aydan Ingle, Brooklyn Buchanan, and Emily Buchanan.

Betty Louise Bolton, 78

Betty Louise Bolton, 78, of Muscle Shoals, AL passed away on Thursday, January 1, 2026. Visitation will be held on Monday, January 5, 2026 from 11 am-1 pm at Colbert Memorial Chapel with a ser­vice to follow at 1 pm in the chapel. Bro. Stan Pruitt will be officiating. Burial will be in Colbert Memorial Gar­dens.

She was preceded in death by her parents, J.C. and Tiny Gober; husband, Larry Bolton; and nephew, Daryl Gober.

She is survived by her daughter, Angela Scott (Todd); granddaughter, Ivie Scott; brother, Donald Gober (Dorothy); sister, Laura Ca­bell (John); nephews and nieces Dorinda Edwards (Kenneth), Derek Gober (Bethany), Elizabeth Stoll and John Cabell III; great nieces and nephews, Maken­zie, Miles, Bailey Ann, Da­vis, Henley, Walker, Rives, and Beau; and caregiver, Ter­rie Whitehead.

Honorary pallbearers will be John Cabell III, Derek Gober, Kenneth Edwards, Miles Edwards, Paul Johnson and Tony South.

Melba June

Corsbie, 85

Melba June Corsbie, 85, of Spring Valley passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. Visitation will be Fri­day, January 2, 2026 from 10 am-12 pm at Colbert Me­morial Chapel with a service to follow at 12 pm in the chapel. Bro. Mark Mayfield and Perry Berryman will be officiating. Burial will be in Glendale Cemetery.

She was a member of Spring Valley Church of God.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James H. and Hattie McDonald; husband, Ellis Corsbie; son, Wayne Corsbie; grandson, Matt Corsbie; brother, Bubby Mc­Donald; sister, Delores Case; son-in-law, Dennis Posey; and beloved grandson -in-law, Mitch Bryant Mitchell.

She is survived by her sons, David Corsbie (Su­sie) of Tuscumbia, AL and Randy Corsbie (Melissa) of Tuscumbia, AL; daughters, Shelia Sartin (Tom) of Mus­cle Shoals, AL, Becky Posey of Muscle Shoals, AL, and Laura King (Tony) of Muscle Shoals; daughter-in-law, Lisa Corsbie of Leighton, AL; sis­ter, Hazel Stewart of Spring Valley; thirteen grandchil­dren; twenty-five great grandchildren; three great great grandchildren; and host of family and friends.

Grandsons will serve as pallbearers.

Hillard Ray

Ayers, 87

Hillard Ray Ayers, 87, of Leighton, AL passed away on December 31, 2025. Vis­itation will be held Saturday, January 3, 2026 from 5-7 pm at Colbert Memorial Chapel. Service will be held on Sun­day, January 4, 2026 at 2 pm in the chapel. Daniel Rogers will be officiating. Burial will be in Hopewell Cem­etery. He was a member of Hopewell Church of Christ.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Mabel Ayers; brothers, Ray­mond and his wife, Judy, James R. and wife Martha, and Nolan and wife, Linda, and Gaither and his wife, Judith; son-in-law’s, Dexter Isbell and Andy Pace.

He is survived by his wife, Vadra June Vandiver; son, Marshall Ray Ayers of Leighton, AL; daughters, Bonnie Renee Isbell of Tus­cumbia and Angela June Jones (David) of Leighton, AL; grandchildren, Aaron Isbell (Ashley) of Muscle Shoals, AL, Regina Ayers of Hamilton, AL, Christi Ayers of Savannah, TN, Shelly Ayers of Muscle Shoals, AL, Emily Ayers of Hatton, AL, and Dustin Hacker; great grandchildren, Sierra Davis, Lakota Ayers, Daysun Ayers, Loretta Holland, Jacob Hol­land, Rylan Ayers, Journey Blankenship, Crimson Blan­kenship, and Jayda Rhodes.

Pallbearers will be Wade Ayers, Heath Ayers, Mike Ayers, Chase Ayers, Greg Ayers, and Scottie Ayers.

Gloria

Clopton-

Robinson, 72

Gloria Clopton-Robinson was born on July 2, 1953, in Sledge, Mississippi to Louise Ganaway and Calvin Clopton. She moved to Fort Wayne in 1968 and graduat­ed from Central High School. She later attended and grad­uated from Indiana Univer­sity Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW). She met the love of her life, Joe Robin­son. They were wed in holy matrimony on July 31, 1978, and were blessed with three kids, Andre, Jodi, and bonus daughter, Tameka. Gloria de­parted this life peacefully in her home with her husband, Joe, and loved ones by her side on Sunday, December 28, 2025.

Gloria started working at State School and Sears Roe­buck & Company until she started her career with Mc­Donald’s Corporation in Fort Wayne, Indiana where she worked for nine (9) years. Gloria and Joe then relocated to Fort Washington, Mary­land where she continued her career with McDonald’s. She became the Director of Operations for the Mary Hopkins-Navies McDon­ald’s Corporation where she managed eight (8) locations throughout the Maryland area. She worked faithfully for twenty-eight years (28) years until she retired in June of 2021, and moved to Mus­cle Shoals, Alabama, cul­minating in her 37 years of service with the McDonald’s Corporation.

Gloria enjoyed traveling the world with her husband, known around the world as “Mr. Joe”, but to Gloria – he was known as her “Boo”. To­gether, the two of them trav­eled to over ten (10) coun­tries throughout the world, with a few of her favorite places being Kenya, Dubai, Cairo (Egypt), and St. Martin in the Caribbean. She loved experiencing each country’s unique characteristics. On every trip she took, the fam­ily could always count on re­ceiving a picture from Gloria riding on a camel, enjoying African culture, or sending pictures of her mingling with the locals.

Gloria enjoyed spending time with her family. She adored her grandchildren and found her greatest joy in giving them experiences to expose them to the world and making life-long mem­ories. Her favorite activities included shopping at Macy’s, cooking for her family, going to the movies, doing yoga with the “Jazzy Girls”, spoil­ing her fur baby, Kai, and watching him “zoom” in the backyard.

Gloria leaves to cherish her memory: her husband, Joe Robinson of Muscle Shoals, Alabama; her son, Andre (Dawn) Clopton, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, her daughters, Tameka (Sterling) Woody, of Raleigh, North Carolina; and Jodi (Keith) Fortson, of Toney, Alabama; eight (8) grandchildren: Brit­tni Clopton, Brianna Clop­ton, Aerial Woody, Aysia (Marcus) Gibbs, Sterling Woody II; Savonee Fortson, Joseph Fortson, and Kennedy Fortson; two (2) great-grand­children, Milan Gibbs and Avani Fortson; her siblings: Calvin Clopton of Lorain, Ohio; James (Taneka) Clop­ton, of Cincinnati, Ohio; Barbara (William) Cherry of Elkhart, Indiana; Ruby Clop­ton Williams, Mary (Jerry) Clopton, Ann (Derek) Hardy, Carolyn Clopton, Charlene (Bob) Williams, Terri Brat­ton, all of Fort Wayne, Indi­ana; her aunt, Carrie Hill of Indianapolis, Indiana; four (4) sister-in-loves: Mary (J.P.) Wallace of Cleveland, Ohio, Ida Robinson, Geneva (Gregory) Abernathy, both of Uniontown, Alabama; Alice (Maurice) Edwards of Selma, Alabama; seven (7) brother-in-loves: Roosevelt Smith of Elkhart, Indiana, Ben (Rose) Robinson of Jamaica, New York; Robert (Annie) Robinson of Fort Wayne, Indiana; James (Sadie) Rob­inson, Steve (Nancy) Rob­inson, both of Uniontown, Alabama; Roy Robinson of Columbus, Georgia; and Jer­ry Robinson of Selma, Ala­bama; her spoiled “human” fur baby, Kai; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and loved ones.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Louise Ganaway and Calvin Clop­ton, her stepfather, William “Bill” Ganaway, her sister, Catherine Smith and a num­ber of aunts and uncles.

Paul Edward Hanback, 78

Paul Edward Hanback, age 78, of Sheffield, passed away Wednesday, December 31, 2025. Visitation will be on Saturday, January 10th from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm at Williams Funeral Home of Florence. Graveside service will follow at 1:00 pm at Old Macedonia Cemetery.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ellis and Do­nia Hanback, sister, Lola H. Palmer and Faye C. Bailey.

Survivors are his brother, David L. Hanback (Barbara), his nephews, Shane Palm­er, Chris Hanback, and Mi­chael Bailey; nieces, Laura Clemmons, Anne Bailey, and Heather Matlock.

Paul was a self-employed carpenter and a member of Carpenters’ local 109. He loved traveling, fishing and spending time with family.

Martha

Willingham Canerday, 82

Martha “Sue” Willingham Canerday, age 82, of Muscle Shoals, AL passed away on January 4, 2026 surrounded by family. Born on October 5, 1943, she was the daughter of Grady and Mildred Thom­ason. She dedicated much of her life to guiding and im­pacting her students and co­workers at G.W.T. Primary School.

She is preceded in death by her first husband, Glen Willingham; her parents, Grady and Mildred Thoma­son; sister, Linda Gale Kee­ton; and son-in-law, Charles Robbins. She is survived by her husband, Reed Canerday; children, Tammie Wright, Pam Kimbrough (Greg), Mike Wilingham (Michelle), Sharon Robbins, and Tami Dolan; sisters, Barbara Sage and Faye Landers; brother, Kenneth Thomason (Bob­bie); ten grandchildren; nine­teen great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held on January 17, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., at Guy Ceme­tery. Following the service, the family will receive guests for a time of visitation and remembrance at Cox Blvd. Church of Christ.

In lieu of flowers, dona­tions may be made to Kruzn for a Kure Foundation.

Grant Lee

Hester, 42

Grant Lee Hester, 42, of Tuscumbia, passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026. A celebration of life will be Saturday, January 10, at Launch Point Church, Tus­cumbia, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. A devotion will imme­diately follow at the church with Gary Jones officiating.

Grant was a member of Tuscumbia First Baptist Church. He had a servant’s spirit and would help anyone and even give the shirt off his back to someone in need. He loved everyone, and every­one loved him. He was pre­ceded in death by his mother, Jeanene Robinson; son, Ja­kob Hester; and uncle, James Hester.

Grant is survived by his wife, Josie Hester; children, Taylor Hudgins (Paul), Alex­is Hester, Kaylie Hester, and Steele Hester; father, Har­vey Hester (Kay Claunch); brother, Sean Hester (Sara); grandchildren, Indy Hudgins, and future baby Hudgins; the mother of his children, Mar­sha Creamer; his parents-in-law, Mark and Laura Jones; and aunt, Faye Hester.

Dennis L.

Hill, 79

Dennis L. Hill, 79, of Cherokee, passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2026. Arrangements will be an­nounced by Morrison Funer­al Home, Cherokee.