Tuesday, August 30, 2022

Patrick McGovern

 

Patrick McGovern died tragically on August 25 in Orlando, Florida at the age of 58.

Patrick is survived by his aunt, Carol (Kerkes) Wilson, and eleven loving cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother Evelyn (Kerkes) DiMare, his father William “Jimmy” McGovern, his sister Donna McGovern, his aunt Audrey (Kerkes) Velgot, his Uncle Ronald Kerkes, and his cousin, Stanley Velgot.

Patrick was born on November 20, 1963, in Boston, Massachusetts to Evelyn Kerkes and William “Jimmy” McGovern. He graduated from New Smyrna Beach High School in New Smyrna Beach, Florida in 1982. Following High School Patrick joined the United States Navy to serve his country. Since 1991, Patrick worked as a stagehand with the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees.

Patrick had many dear friends through his work, all of whom would agree he was a kind soul, with a sparkle in his eye and love in his heart. He loved New Smyrna Beach and spent countless hours at the beach often with his beloved pup, Memphis.

A service is being held for Patrick at Dobbs Funeral Home in Orlando on Friday, September 9, 2022 from 4:00p until 7:00p with a wake service at 6:00 pm. Those who wish to contribute to Patrick’s memory can make donations to the American Diabetes Association or the Florida Humane Society, two causes very dear to Patrick.

Friday, August 26, 2022

Raymond "Buddy" Leo Conrad

Raymond Leo Conrad, age 86, of Orlando, FL passed away August 14, 2022 at his residence after a long battle with cancer.  He was born in Ocoee, FL, on September 26, 1935.

Buddy graduated from Lakeview High School, Class of 1953.  Shortly after, he joined the Armed Forces as an Airman First Class until January 16, 1963.  He was stationed at ITAZUKE Airbase in Fukuoka, Japan for most of his tour.

He later returned to his hometown of Ocoee, FL where he secured a position with Lockheed Martin as an accountant working on special projects and making a difference within the company.

Buddy loved his family and friends and often spoke about how much he enjoyed attending the Conrad and Hawthorne family reunions.  He especially loved his sister Brenda, as they were always together and were inseparable, always making sure to take care of each other.

When he wasn't with family or friends, Ray was an avid participant with his church overseeing the switchboard for the music and all for the less fortunate, always  helping with the food banks or the Veterans.  He enjoyed reading books and watching documentaries.

Buddy is now reunited with this father Leo Conrad, mother Willie Conrad, and two sisters Brenda Conrad and Ila "Doris" Deal.  He is survived by his niece Beverly Brown and two nephews, Scott and Roberts Owens; followed by four great nieces and three great nephews, five great great nieces, nephews and several cousins.  Buddy will be missed but will rest with his family.

There will be a Celebration of Life Service at Dobbs Funeral Home on Monday, August 29th, 2022 at 11:00 am.

Wednesday, August 24, 2022

John F. Golder

 John F. Golder

March 22, 1936 - August 23, 2022

 


John F. Golder, age 86, of Windermere, FL passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 23, 2022 in his home.  Beloved Husband, Daddy, Mampies, Popa and brother was born on March 22, 1936 in Enfield, England.  He was the son of the late William John Golder and Vera Lillian Golder Kucer.

John sailed to America in 1946 as a young boy with his mother.  He graduated from Wintersville High School in 1954 where he met his high school sweetheart whom he later married.  In 1955, he enlisted in the United States Air Force.  John and Joretta were married in 1956.  He was a decorated United States Air Force veteran who served our country for more than 20 years in many locations including Vietnam.  His favorite assignment was the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO.  John earned the rank of Senior Master Sargeant. 

John was the ultimate family man.  He didn’t hunt, golf or fish, but loved spending time with his family.  John always said, “Family is everything.”  He loved automobiles, collecting model trains and remote-control vehicles.  He enjoyed playing cards and dominoes with friends. He was a die-hard Florida State Seminole football fan!  John was a dog lover and had many cherished pets through the years.  However, his greatest joys were his wife and family.

John is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Joretta Six Golder; his two favorite daughters and sons-in-law, Debbie & Doug Krenzer and Roni & Chris Smith; his three treasured granddaughters and grandsons-in-law, Jennifer & Dennis Cavilla, Lauren & Nick Nesta and Kirsten & Zack Kozial; his five precious great-grandbabies, Brinlee, Callie and Coleman John Cavilla and Aria and Bella Nesta.  He is also survived by two wonderful siblings and their spouses, Tom & Julie Kucer and Susan & Bill Ward.  He was preceded in death by his only son, William John Golder. 

There will be a celebration of life at St. Lukes United Methodist Church on Friday, August 26th at 2pm.  4851 S. Apopka Vineland Road Orlando, FL 32819.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, please make donations to his favorite charity, Florida United Methodist Children’s Home (fumch.org).

Thursday, August 18, 2022

Matheus De Oliveira Sessa

Matheus de Oliveira Sessa, 20 years old, resident of Orlando FL, passed away on Thursday August 11th. He was born in Sao Paulo, Brazil on December 21, 2001, son of Luciana Ferreira de Oliveira and Marcelo Sessa, and beloved brother of Raphael de Oliveira Sessa. 

Matheus graduated from Dr. Phillips high school and was a highlight of the soccer team. He was studying marketing at Warner University and worked at the YMCA as a lifeguard. 

Matheus was an exemplary son, loved by his family and friends from Brazil and Orlando.

He will always be remembered by his companionship, charisma and joy.

The family will be receiving friends from 2:00 until 3:00 pm, followed by the funeral service on Saturday, August 20, 2022 at Dobbs Funeral Home. 

William "Bill" Yamber

William “Bill” Yamber passed away on August 13, 2022, after a spinal cord injury and paralysis due to a car accident. Resistant to Christ his whole life, he eagerly accepted Jesus as his Savior in his last days, so we find hope in the promise that we will see him again. He is now without a doubt shouting victory in Jesus.

Born in Augusta, GA on February 10, 1954, he was adopted by William “Bill” J. and Minalie “Peg” M. Yamber. Bill grew up as an only child and Army brat living in Georgia, California, Massachusetts, Virginia, Germany, and Florida.

An upstanding man, living by a code of honor and integrity, Bill committed his life to the service and protection of others, first to his country as a 1st Lt in the Army. Hooah! He took pride in being a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne division, Military Police, and Florida National Guard Reserves. He held great pride in the military and service to his country. In addition to the military, Bill protected his community as an Orange County Deputy Sheriff and retired after 30 years of service. Specifically, his career included Road Patrol, Criminal Investigation Division, SWAT, Dive Team, and Voice Stress Analysis in Personnel.

Bill enjoyed time with friends and family; it was at these times his quiet nature could really open up to cut a corny joke or two and zing a sarcastic and “sensitive” line. He loved seeing old coworkers at retiree breakfasts and tailgating with his longtime Lamda Chi Alpha (LXA) brothers before sweating in the SWAMP for an assured Gator victory. To say he was an avid Gator is an understatement. He has seen many Gator greats, with Danny Wuerffel as his favorite. From the painful days of 70s to the highly anticipated new Billy Napier era, in “all kinds of weather” Bill bled orange and blue! In recent years, he enjoyed traveling with Linda and a few LXA brothers and their wives.

When not crashing, he loved to ride his bike and scooter. He also could be found in front of the TV watching the stocks, news, old Gator reruns, or latest cop drama. A man of impeccable taste, his favorite meal was a #1 (whatever that happened to be) or hot dogs, chips, and a coke! He was a master of mess, one minute phone calls, few words, pinching two cents out of penny, a fashion icon, and technology bewilderment.

Bill did not often wear his heart on his sleeve, but he cared deeply for his friends and family. He was a good, dependable man. He viewed providing for his family of utmost importance, valuing being a son, husband, father, and brother. He was tough and brave, and a kind, generous, and good friend.

In Bill’s final days, he was at peace with the reality of his circumstances and the assurance of spending eternity with the Lord. As Linda put it, “He worked for an hour but received a full day’s pay.” Matthew 20:1-16. He and his family were blessed with support, prayers, and visits from pastors providing his last communion, friends, fraternity brothers, extended family, coworkers, and incredible neighbors. Special thanks to Colleen Gregory, Lynn Stickley and Glen and Kelly Gettings. God’s presence was so evident, and He graciously gave the gift of time to Bill, Linda, Courtney, and Griffin.

After the passing of his parents Bill and Peg, he was fortunate to meet his birth mother Helen Greene, stepfather Roy (deceased), and five of his siblings Ronnie, David, Lynn Spring, Scott, and Robert and their families. He was predeceased by sister Debbie and brother Kerry. He is survived by his wife Linda of 38 years, daughter Courtney of whom he was incredibly proud, and his favorite dog Ben Hill “Griffin”. He is additionally survived by his mother in law Edith Childs, sister-in-law Joanne Davis, brother-in-law Kirk Chadwick, and several Yamber cousins with whom he shared many memories.

Bill’s Celebration of Life service will be held on August 24, 2022, at 2:00 pm in Henry Chapel, First Baptist Church of Orlando.  3000 S. John Young Parkway in Orlando, FL .Live Stream – begins at 1:55

 https://control.resi.io/webplayer/video.html?id=c8b8a1a7-376d-44e0-81cf-59b352e54e55 

Bill would be honored for you to wear a tribute of some orange and blue. However, he would completely understand if it would pain you too much, as there are several colors he would not wear himself!

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to:

-   Desire Street Ministries (Danny Wuerffel) https://desirestreet.org/?form=donate

-   Wreaths Across American (Veterans) https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org

-    First Baptist’s KIDS (Linda’s volunteer, type KIDS Bill Yamber in the memo) https://pushpay.com/g/firstorlando?fnd=3TJMI4z_exabZZqDqbLr_g&r=No&lang=en&src=pcgl


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Monday, August 15, 2022

Ann Marie Ray

Ann Marie Ray, age  95, of Groveland, FL passed away Wednesday, August 10th, 2022 at Residence.  She was born in Chicago, IL on August 24, 1926, the daughter of the late Mary (Penza)  and Ilario  Alvino.  Ann was employed as a Quality Control Engineer at Lockeed Martin.

Ann is survived by grand daughters Audrey Ann Graves of Ohio, Sandra Jean Ray of Florida, Jamie Lynn Ray-Decker of Florida; grandson Robert Glenn Ray of Florida; 5 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren of Florida.

The family will be receiving friends at 10:00 am, followed by the service at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 20th at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Orlando, FL  with Father Leo Hodges officiating.  Interment will follow the service at Winter Garden Cemetery.

Tuesday, August 2, 2022

Charles E. Woodsby

    Charles Edward Woodsby (Charley) passed away peacefully on July 28, 2022 at the age of 91. Charley was a devoted Christian man born in Spartanburg, SC to the late Lucy Sanders and William Dan Woodsby. Charley came from a family of nine where everyone had to pitch in to make ends meet. Charley’s parents worked hard to keep a roof over their heads and bellies full during the Depression, which taught him a valuable lesson. Living through these difficult times motivated him to strive for a better way of life. This drive brought Charley nearly 70 years of success in the restaurant industry.

Charley got his first job at a grocery store when he was 11. At the age of 15, Charley enlisted in the Air Force for three years. He then attended Cecil Business College followed by The Hotel and Restaurant School of New York City, majoring in Hotel and Restaurant Management.

             Charley bought and operated his first restaurant in 1954 at the age of 23 in Atlanta, GA. Two years later he sold that establishment and converted an old grocery store into a 200-seat restaurant. In 1960, he moved to Jacksonville, FL and formed a business partnership that would change the rest of his life.

While in Jacksonville, Charley purchased the Thunderbird Restaurant with his new business partners William and D.C. Darden. Two years later, Charley and his partners bought Gary’s Duck Inn, one of the most famous family restaurants in Orlando. Numerous other restaurants were started by the team in the early sixties including The Green Frog in Adel, GA, The Coach House in Greenville, SC, the Towne House in Columbia, SC and the Old South in Jacksonville, FL. 

             With the success of Gary’s Duck Inn, Charley had a vision for a family style seafood restaurant offering affordable prices. In developing this concept, he applied what he learned to be the three principles of success in his industry: quality, value and service. He felt strongly that a restaurant that offers fine food, served promptly and congenially, at an affordable price, would succeed.

In 1968, Charley and William Darden opened the first Red Lobster in Lakeland, FL. It was an immediate success and within two years, five more Red Lobsters were opened. In 1970, the pair received a generous offer from General Mills Restaurants, Inc. to acquire the business. Charley signed a three year management contract where he helped develop and open 72 Red Lobster locations. As part of his responsibilities, he supervised the corporation’s real estate, construction, purchasing and operations departments. As Red Lobster continued to grow, he developed four regional offices in St. Louis, Atlanta, Dallas and Orlando.

At the age of 42, Charley retired from the General Mills organization but in just one year, he was back in business with his son, Ron. Together they opened the first Talk of the Town Restaurant in Lakeland, FL. Over the next five years, they opened Talk of the Town Restaurants in Winter Haven, Clearwater, St. Petersburg and Orlando. In 1984, they took their restaurants in a new direction and opened a high-end steakhouse using only the highest quality and standards. Ron suggested renaming the restaurants after their founder – and Charley’s Steak House was created. Talk of the Town Restaurants encompassed 10 restaurants with 5 different concepts in Central Florida. They employed nearly 1500 people, making a sizeable impact on the area’s economy.

Charley’s faith was central to his life and guided his many charitable endeavors. Feeling blessed by his success, in 1998 Charley and his first wife, Jean, established a private foundation. Through the foundation, they contributed to numerous ministries throughout Central Florida, the United States and globally. Some of their most gratifying work was done in Honduras where they sponsored 6 children every year, which meant providing healthcare, clothing, food allowances and tuition for their education. They were most proud of funding the building of four churches in Honduras to promote the Christian faith.

Sadly in 2005 Charley lost the love of his life, his wife of 55 years, Jean Harris Woodsby. But God was good and sent him a second soulmate, MaryLou Johnson, and in 2007 they were married. Charley and MaryLou loved to travel both for pleasure and to take the gospel to unreached areas of the world. In recent years the couple has continued the original vision of the foundation by placing their focus on the Jesus Film, a motion picture made in 1979 according to the Gospel of Luke. It has now been translated into over 2,000 languages around the world. When they were not traveling, Charley and MaryLou loved spending their summers away from the Florida heat at their mountain home in Highlands, NC. There they loved playing cards and golf croquet with their many friends. 

Charley was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather to his beautiful family, of which he was very proud. He enjoyed golf, tennis, fishing, swimming and spending time with his family. He will be remembered as a kind, generous, thoughtful, fun-loving friend to all who had the honor of knowing him.

             “My motto has always been quality, value, service and integrity; be honest, be truthful and treat people with respect. My faith has also always been very important to me. I believe God guided me in all directions of my life, putting the right opportunities and the right people before me at the right time.” – Charley Woodsby

Charley is preceded in death by his wife, Jean Harris Woodsby, and grandson Joshua William Parrish.

Charley is survived by his wife, MaryLou Woodsby; children, Ronald Edward Woodsby (Dana), Deborah Woodsby Thrash (John), and Sherry Woodsby Parrish (Earl); stepdaughters, Jennifer Christine Snell (Nate), and Kristin Johnson Levy (Sean); grandchildren, Edward Clark Woodsby (Emily), James Harris Woodsby (Sarah), Shannon Thrash Parrish (Jay), Jennifer Thrash Lassabe (Keith), John Edward Thrash, III (Yesenia), and Nicole Jean Parrish; and step grandchildren, Dylan Hageman, Beckett Snell, Hendrix Snell, Brooklyn Levy, Londyn Levy and Asher Levy. He was also survived by brother, Billy Eugene Woodsby (Joanne) and many nieces and nephews. 

Charley was blessed with 14 precious great-grandchildren, Cora, Ruby, Jasper, Belle, James, Rose, Leila, Jayce, Alex, Madison, Tanner, Aiden, Zyair and Bentley.

On Wednesday, August 3 there will be a Visitation at 10 a.m. and a Celebration of Life at 11 a.m. held in the Henry Chapel at First Baptist Orlando, 3000 S. John Young Parkway, Orlando. A reception will immediately follow. There will be a private family burial.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: One More Child, 1015 Sikes Blvd., Lakeland, FL, 33815. www.onemorechild.org