Carole Breeden Dwyer

Carole Breeden Dwyer was born in Gainesville, Florida on the 25^th of February 1939 to Barney and Lorene Breeden.  She was the second of five children, survived by her sister Nancy Faulkner, who lives in Terra Haute, Indiana; and joining her brothers Robert, Kenneth and Frank Breeden who have gone before her.  Carole grew up in Punta Gorda, Florida, where she attended Girls State, was high school cheerleading captain, homecoming queen, editor of the school newspaper and participated in multiple other activities and organizations.  It was also there that she met and married James Dwyer in 1958 and gave birth to her four children who survive her: James Jr of Orlando, Judith of Orange City, Catherine of Deland and Marjorie of Daytona Beach.   She is also survived by her six grandchildren, who she was very proud of:  Eddie Senez Jr, Braden and Brock Dwyer, Amanda and Emily Rose, and Steven Cochran; and five great grandchildren.  Carole’s passion was caring for and encouraging her children and grandchildren, and she devoted her life to them.  After moving to Orange City, Florida in 1964, she worked briefly for the Mackle Brothers, before a 20-year career with Deland High School as Administrative Assistant to the Principal and Activities Director.  In 1984 she met and fell in love with Roy Peterson of Deland.  They enjoyed a wonderful life together, with Roy always by her side.  A small service with the immediate family will take place to celebrate her in the coming weeks.

Cherlie Jacquet

Cherlie was born in 1989. She started her elementary studies in l’Azile and at the age of 11, she moved to St Marteen, where she completed middle school and high school. Shortly after her graduation, she got hired as a Bank teller in St Marteen. In 2010, she decided to move to Miami, and later to Orlando where she joined the First Haitian Baptist Church of Orlando in 2011. In 2012, she met Johnny Ilceus, the father of her daughter Ashley. Cherlie sacrificed herself to make sure her daughter was well taken care of. Cherlie was truly loved. We know that she would not want to see any of us crying; that is why, we keep her angelic and contagious smile in our memories. Cherlie has gone now to her Savior, for she loved the Lord with all her heart, mind and soul, but Cherlie will never be forgotten.

 Our sincere condolences go to Ashley Shelby, her daughter; Johnny Ilceus: Ashley’s father; her parents: Smarthe Lapaix and Holnord Jacquet; her father-in-law: Mondesir Ramsais; her brother: Jean Bernard Lapaix; her uncle and aunt: Kenold and Yvrose Lapaix; her nephews: Jacy and Jaylen Lapaix; her sister-in-law: Kadie Smith; Family Decembre and Family Charles.

The family will be receiving friends on Thursday, September 23, 2021 from at 9:00 am, followed by the funeral service at 10:00 am at the First Haitian Baptist Church of Orlando, located at 4701 Lennox Boulevard.

Mary Janet (Allgood) Hartman

Mary Janet (Allgood) Hartman entered her eternal rest on Monday, September 13, 2021.  

Born on December 31, 1935, in Bastrop, Louisiana to Sam Sylvester Sr and Minerva Iles Allgood. The youngest and only daughter of four children, the family moved to Lake Charles where Janet lived until she met a young (however, eight years her senior) Air Force officer, Sam Hartman. The two wed on June 1, 1957. They remained happily married for forty-seven years until Sam’s passing in 2004. 

A teacher by profession, she taught at Goldsboro Elementary School in Sanford, Fl.  She was most happy at home and her church. Janet was a lover of the Lord Jesus Christ and people, with a particular bias toward her family (with an even more particular bias toward her grandchildren). To walk in her door was to become family. One was rarely around Janet when food was not involved. A meal usually meant an opportunity to serve and fellowship with those she cared so much for. 

An ardent fan of the Florida Gators and Atlanta Braves, Janet never missed her sons’ sporting events. 

A member of Forest City First Baptist Church for over 45 years, she taught a woman’s bible study for most of that time. 

Along with her husband, Janet was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers (Glen, Frank, and Sam Jr), a daughter who was stillborn, and grandson, Jonathan.  

Survivors include three sons, Lee (Angela), Steve (Sue), and Billy (Kim). Grandchildren, Jessica (Jason), Amanda (Jess), Sarah (Richard), Kelsey (Jeremy) and their mother Melissa. Other grandchildren, Kara (Josh), Quinn, Karla (Chris), Alaric, Katie (Matt), Sam, and Amelia, and seventeen great-grandchildren. 

Services will Tuesday, September 21, at Forest City First Baptist Church with visitation at 9:00 followed by funeral service at 10:00. Burial will be at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Fl at 1:30. Reverend Matt Groce will officiate. Pallbearers will be Quinn Hartman, Sam Hartman, Nick Hartman, David Shore, Will Beach, and Jess Register. 

The family requests that any donations be made to Forest City First Baptist Church, 721 W Lake Brantley Rd, Altamonte Springs, Fl 32714.

 

 

Lynda Jones Aldridge

Lynda Jones Aldridge, 68, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on September 12, 2021, after a valiant fight against complications from COVID. She was born on July 1,1953, in Orangeburg, South Carolina, to Wade Thomas Jones and Mary Lineback Jones, who both preceded her into eternity. Left to cherish her legacy of love and faith are her children, Wade Aldridge and Leah (Joffred) Mercado; brother, Stephen (Llewelyn) Jones; sister, Beth Herndon; grandchildren Zachary Hunt and Maryana Aldridge; granddogs Stella Mercado and Jake Aldridge; her blonde bonus daughter, Shelley Bradford (Darren); and her godsons, Thomas and Meyer Bradford. 

Lynda graduated from East Carolina University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. She was very proud of her service in the United States Navy; she was active 1978–1982, and remained in the reserves until 1993.

Lynda lived out her testimony by sharing the love of God with everyone she met through encouragement, prayer, and deeds. She was kind, selfless, and generous in all facets of her life. When someone would make the comment “Who knows?” Lynda would always answer, “God.” 

Lynda enjoyed her diversified career from an upstart business in “offsite” administrative support (well before its time, such as working from home today) to HD Supply. She finished her career at First Baptist Church of Orlando (FBCO) children’s ministry. Her mission and outreach extended beyond any clock. 

Lynda worshipped as a member at FBCO for more than 40 years and enjoyed serving on the creative arts stage management team, where she brought balance and peace to any situation. In the past few years she was introduced to Matthew’s Hope, a local homeless ministry, where she served in any area needed, always wanting to know people’s stories, from guests to staff members. Lynda preferred being behind the scenes, and she called herself an elf.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Lynda found her a loyal friend. She was smart, funny, and joyfully dedicated to serving others. Her love for the word of God and turning any situation “spiritual, never judgmental” was a gift that would leave those around her in awe. Lynda regularly handed out Bibles, and when she found a book that blessed her (most recently Threadbare Prayer), she bought copies in bulk to share. Her love for watermelon (which she called “birthday cake”) was well known to those who knew her. She walked through this life with outstretched arms and a gentle touch of grace, and even now she continues to bring people together.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, September 19, at First Baptist Church, 3000 S. John Young Parkway, Orlando, FL, 32805. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Baptist Orlando children’s ministry, 3200 John Young Parkway, Orlando, FL. 32805 or Matthew’s Hope, 611 Business Park Blvd #101, Winter Garden, FL, 34787.

Louise Martha Westbrock

Louise Martha Westbrock "Louie", of Orlando Florida, was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She left us peacefully on September 1, 2021 at the age of 86.

She was born to Joseph and Martha Mechavich on December 27, 1934, in St. Cloud, Minnesota. After high school, Louie became an X-ray Technician. While working, she met her future husband, Donald Westbrock, a Naval aviator . After a long-distance courtship and a convincing letter, she agreed to marry him in Madrid, Spain. They began their 64-year journey on August 17, 1957. They experienced a true Navy life by living in Rota, Spain, San Diego, San Francisco, & Monterey, California, Alexandria, Virginia, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Virginia Beach & Springfield, Virginia, and Orlando, Florida.

She was a remarkable wife to Don…as well as the Navy. There is a phrase in the military; "The toughest job in the Navy ... a Navy wife.". It's true. She experienced the stress and uncertainty of all military spouses when her husband and father of her children was deployed on 5 missions to Vietnam, the Pacific & Mediterranean Seas.

She had a passion for family, laughter, and friendships. She created a nurturing and active homelife in every community across the country. Throughout her life, she enjoyed playing tennis, golf, and cards. She was a passionate artist, and she was determined to exercise and/or take Zumba classes daily. In addition to Don, she loved Johnny Mathias & Sam Elliott.

Louie was a great mom to her three children, Donald "DJ" (Dinda), Katherine "Kate", and Christine "Chris" (Mike). She was also a loving GramJam to her eight grandchildren Joe, Jake, Ben, Jack, Sam, Sadie, Grayson, and Elliot. She is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren and her brother, Joe. She is preceded in death by her parents, and siblings Sylvester, Josephine, Larry, and Delores.

A celebration of Louie's life will be held at 1:00 PM on September 17, 2021 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 5129 South Apopka Vineland Rd, Orlando, FL, 32819. Thank you for considering a donation to a fund established for Louie at The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.  Please go to the link below.

https://secure.info-komen.org/site/Donation2?idb=342722466&df_id=23915&FR_ID=8827&mfc_pref=T&PROXY_ID=26195159&PROXY_TYPE=20&23915.donation=form1

Noel T. Vold

Noel T. Vold died August 12, 2021.  Noel was born March 26, 1936 in McVille, ND to Carl and Louise Vold.  Noel graduated from McVille High School.  After high school he graduated from Concordia College, Moorhead, MN with a BA in Biology with minors in Education and Psychology.  He taught 2 years Biology in Ruthton, MN, and became commencement speaker of his 1st Biology class.  He then graduated with honors with a Masters of Divinity degree from Luther Seminary, St. Paul, MN.  On August 6th, 1966, Noel was united in marriage to Sharon Arlene Christensen at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Belview, MN.  Following marriage, Noel served the following churches:  Bethany Lutheran- Viborg, SD, Our Savior's Lutheran- Flandreau, SD, Hope Lutheran- Sioux Falls, SD, Our Savior's Lutheran AFLC-Dickinson, ND, Advent Lutheran-Winchester, VA.  He was in ministry for over 50 years.  This included a radio ministry, 21 preaching missions, first person Biblical portrayals, part-time counselor for Alcoholics and Drug Addiction Center, counselor, teacher, led group to the Holy Land and various leadership positions in the church conference.  He was widely known for his singing ministry in hospitals, nursing homes and wherever he went. Noel's life was characterized by preaching, teaching, relationships and reaching people for Christ.  Matthew 28:18-20.  His emphasis was always a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  The only authority in all of life is God's Word.  He also enjoyed outdoor activities and spending time with his wife, Sharon, his 4 children and 14 grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Sharon.  They lived in Stephenson, VA.  Also, their 4 children: Dr. Steven Vold-Arkansas, John Vold-Japan, Julie Stephenson-Florida, Heidi Mondesir-Florida and 14 grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Carl Vold.

James William Coup

James William Coup (76) passed away from cancer on September 01, 2021 at his home in Gotha, Florida.

Jim was born in Lewisburg, PA on November 24, 1944. In February of 1962 he enlisted and became a Photographer's Mate in the US Navy. He served 4 Tours of Duty in Vietnam. He eventually traveled the world serving on both ships and shore duty. He received several Awards and Commendations to include the Navy Achievement Medal. He retired after 25 years as a Chief Petty Officer.

After separation from the Navy, in 1986 he began his second career as a Crime Scene Technician with the Orlando Police Department. His wartime photographic experience helped him excel at working major crime scenes. That experience also allowed him to take care of his co-workers from a personal point of view. His dry sense of humor was a source of fun and support for many of the officers and detectives working those scenes. He was instrumental in transitioning the Department Photo Lab from Film to Digital photography. When he retired in October 2003, he was a Court Certified Expert Witness and Chief Forensic Photographer. He received Awards and Letters of Commendation from Police and civilians alike. He is remembered as someone who could strike up a conversation with anybody.

He is preceded in death by his father Leroy, mother Emily, his sister Darla, and brothers John, Butch, and Homer. He is survived by his wife Pat, his sons James, Dale and Dave. His brother Lee and his sisters Sylvia, Mary and Edith. He has 3 grandchildren.

The viewing and funeral will be held at Dobbs Funeral Home, 430 N. Kirkman Rd. Orlando, FL. 32811 on Tuesday, September 14, 2021. Viewing at 1100. Service at 1200. He will be interred on Monday September 20, 2021 at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, 5525 US Highway 1, Mims, FL. 32754

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society in his name.

Frank Scelta

Frank Scelta passed away on September 8, 2021 at his home in Winter Garden, Florida.  He was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., son September 13, 1950, the beloved son of the late Frances and Joseph Scelta.

Frank was the loving brother of Linda Jandrasits; Brother-in-law and dear friend of Edward Jandrasits; Wonderful Uncle, confidant and friend to his niece Diane Jandrasits Osacar and great-nephew Caleb.

Devoted husband to his late wife of 42 years Victoria.  A graduate of St. Francis College, Frank exhibited a Tremendous sense of humor and had a sparkling personality.  He will be dearly missed.

Linda Jean Warren

Linda Jean Warren, gained her Heavenly Wings on September 3, 2021 at the age of 73. At Health Central Hospital Ocoee Fl. She lived in Clermont FL. She was Born June 12,1948 to Clifford and Nellie Farley. She loved to spend time with all of her family and friends. Going on vacation with her sister Elaine. Her favorite holiday was Christmas. She was preceded in death by her Father and Mother Clifford and Nellie Farley, Husband Vern Warren , Daughter Becky Warren, Son Bobby Warren and Brother Benny Farley. She left behind her Daughter Barbara Neeley and Son Christopher Warren  ( Maria Garica). Grandchildren Jacob Warren ( Alisha Roman), Amber Neeley, Dalton Neeley, Hunter Warren, Matthew Williamson, Zackary Williamson, Kyle Williamson, Jessica Winn  ( Jr Hughey). Great grandkids Phoenix Webb, Annabelle Webb, Paislee Hughey, Delilah Hughey. Daughter in laws Jenny Sims Grey, and Marcie Warren. Brothers Jim Farley, Allen Farley (Sherry), Jerry Farley (Vivian), Fred Farley. Many nieces and nephews. 

Stephen J. Plunkett, III

Stephen J. Plunkett, III, 79, died after a short illness on August 20, 2021 at an Orlando hospital.  He was born March 19, 1942 in Nyack, NY to Stephen J. and Naomi M. (Davies) Plunkett, Jr.

Stephen graduated from Clarkstown High School in 1960 and went on Siena College in Loudenville, NY where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in History. After moving to Rochester,NY he attended the Visual Studies Workshop where he studied photography and received a Masters in Fine Arts through the University of New York.  While in Rochester he also taught photography at Monroe Community College where he met the love of his life, Karen.  He worked in the food and beverage industry until taking his skills to the hospitality industry, where he worked in Indiana and Orlando until his retirement. After retirement, Stephen turned his interest of fine art into contemporary art on canvas.  He created many beautiful pieces and attended trade shows throughout the east and mid-west.  He loved good food and drink, fine art, cooking, reading and current events.  He also truly loved his nieces, nephews and three grandchildren and found great joy in their visits and spending time with them.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife of 36 years, Karen (Kelberman) Plunkett; son, Aaron Plunkett; brothers: Richard W. Plunkett, Thomas M. Ryan, and Michael C. Plunkett.  He is survived by son, Jeremey Plunkett of Rochester, NY; brother, Terry (Donna) Plunkett of Denver, CO; grandchildren, Noah, Adam and Carem all of Rochester, NY and many nieces and nephews.

 The family wishes any memorial contributions be made to the charity or organization of your choice in Stephen’s name. 

 

 

Michael Dean Ragsdale

Michael Dean Ragsdale (Orlando) was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.  Michael went home to be with his savior on Thursday, Sept 2, 2021 at the age of 58.

Michael was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease – Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) in December 2015.  He fought a long, hard, and courageous fight, he always had a very positive attitude in his battle with this debilitating disease. He had an extensive career in the staffing industry for over 35 years that spanned from Florida, Georgia, and Texas.  He was a laid back, quiet man devoted to his family and friends, and a true animal lover.  He enjoyed a robust political conversation as he was an avid follower of the political stage.

Michael was born to Vonda Lee Taylor and Harry Louis Ragsdale on September 29, 1962 in Key West, Florida.  Predeceased by his parents and brother Tim, he leaves to mourn his wife Fran (Orlando), son Bryan, stepson Wesley Nott (Tannia), granddaughters Aurora and Viviana, brothers Robert, Chris, and Harry (Susie).  

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or a charity of your choice.  According to Michael’s wishes, there will be no funeral service.

 

Rest eternal grant on him, Oh Lord

And let light perpetual shine upon him

May he rest in peace

 

Esther Ann Maness

Esther Ann Maness, age 80, of Yalaha, Florida passed away Tuesday, August 31st, 2021 at Southlake Hospital, in Clermont.  Esther was born in Ferndale, Michigan, the daughter  of the late Elsie (Vincent)  and Otto  Johnson.  She was a homemaker and member of Church at the Cross in Orlando.

Esther leaves to cherish her memory, daughter, Debbie McGlothlin of Winter Garden;  two sons Guy Maness of Yalaha,  and David Maness of Cocoa;  6 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.

The family will be receiving friends at 10:00 am, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 am on Thursday, September 9th, 2021 at Church at the Cross in Orlando, located at 700 Good Homes Road,  with Pastor Clayton Cloer officiating.  Interment will follow the funeral service at  Oak Hill Cemetery, in Clermont.

Sylvester Elliott

Sylvester Elliott, age 57 passed away on Tuesday, August 24, 2021 at Health Central Hospital in Ocoee, Florida. He was born in Smithfield, North Carolina, the son of Waddall and Janie Mae (Sanders) Elliott and served in the Army National Guard.  He is preceded in death by both parents and his brother Johnny Lewis Holliday.

 He attended Benson Chapel Church in his early life and was the youngest of 6 siblings. Sylvester graduated from Lake Wales High School. He was a hard worker for many years until his health declined.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory, wife Phenia (Ramsey) Elliott of Alabama; daughter Samantha Elliott Merriweather (Anthony), son Sylvester Elliott Jr. (Tiffany) both of Alabama, sisters Janie Surran (Jeffrey) of Louisville, KY and Georiga Elliott Gainey of North Carolina. Three brothers William Earl Sanders, of Four Oaks, N.C., Daniel Sanders of Benson, N.C., Wendell Elliott of Orlando, FL., and a host of nieces and nephews, relatives and friends. He will be dearly missed.

The memorial services will be held at Dobbs Funeral home on Friday, September 10, 2021 at 10:00 am. 

Cindy Darsan

On Wednesday, August 25, 2021, Cindy Darsan passed away at the age of 34. Cindy was born on January 13,1987 in Bronx, NY. She leaves behind a loving mother Lachmie Shantie Darsan, sister Sandy Darsan and father Samnarine Darsan. 

 Cindy always had a passion for dancing since she was a little girl.   She enjoyed listening to music, watching movies, going to the beach and having a great time with her loved ones. She was known for her wisdom, strength, kind heart and quick wit. She never failed to make those around her feel cherished and loved. She will always be remembered by her loved ones as they carry her memories forward.

Viewing will be held on Tuesday, August 31st, 2021 from 6:00PM to 9:00PM at Dobbs Funeral Home, 430 N Kirkman Rd, Orlando, FL 32811.   Masks Required

Services will be Live on Zoom 

 Viewing of Cindy Darsan

Tuesday, Aug 31st, 2021 - 6:00PM-9:00PM

Meeting ID: 897 2331 1804

Meeting Passcode: 271502

 

Funeral & Last Rites of Cindy Darsan

Wednesday, Sept 1st, 2021 - 6:30AM-8:30AM

Meeting ID: 816 7657 5250

Meeting Passcode: 991091

Ruth (Tubby) Marilyn (Underwood)Price

Ruth (Tubby) Marilyn (Underwood) Price, born in Columbus, Ohio, July 2nd 1927, baptized May 21st 1972, and died August 19th 2021, in Orlando, Florida, to be with the Lord. Preceded into eternity by her beloved husband of 65 years, James Edward Price, father and mother Charles and Ida Underwood, all six of her siblings and great-granddaughter, Jillienne Marie  Price. She leaves her five sons, James "Mike" (Susan), Keith, Jeffrey, Charles (Ann) and Matthew (Elaine), twelve grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Ruth graduated West high school in 1945, worked as many jobs as the places she lived. She loved to play golf, especially with her husband. Her final requests included cremation, placement next to her husband at Miramar National Cemetery and no showing or funeral service.

Betty LeBlanc Wilroy

Betty LeBlanc Wilroy, age 90 of Orlando, Florida, passed away August 26, 2021.  She was preceded in death by her mother Nora Bond Rushan, father Arvey Leon and his wife Eleanor LeBlanc, brother Shirley LeBlanc and nephew Richard.  She is survived by her husband, Robert Avery Wilroy; daughter Ava Sims; son Rex and wife Liz Wilroy; granddaughter Christina; nieces Sandy, Linda, Mickey and Debbie; plus many Stuffed Bears!  Graveside funeral service will be held Thursday, September 2, 2021 at 10:00 am at Dr. Phillips Cemetery.  Visitation will be held Wednesday from 6 pm - 8 pm, at Dobbs Funeral Home.

Betty was born July 24, 1931 in Mobile AL. She learned early to grab her own destiny when she taught herself to drive with the family’s car in the front yard.  A young Betty was a Beauty Queen and loved watching her dad compete in boat races.  She ran the custodial operations at the Naval Training Center Orlando. Her true love of beautiful old furniture became “Humbugs Antiques”, first in a shop near downtown Orlando and then in Mount Dora.  Working till the end, she just finished completely rebuilding a beautiful chandelier a few months ago.  We will miss her dearly!

Ramon Jaime Lopez

 

Ramon (Jimmy) Jaime Lopez was a caring husband, father, grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend. He went home to be with Jesus on Thursday August 19th 2021 at the age of 78. He died peacefully at home surrounded by his wife and family members. 
Ramon was born to Francisco and Lorenza Lopez on July 22nd 1943 in Manati, Puerto Rico. After the passing of his mom he was raised by his dad till the age of 11. Together they enjoyed his favorite pastime - fishing. 
In 1954, he left his beloved island in “El Campo” to move in with his oldest sister, Isabel. She had an apartment in the “projects”, which was located in a section of the Bronx. New York City would change his life forever.
In 1960, he met his wife and courted her for 5 years before getting married on November 27th, 1965. After enjoying their life as newlyweds, they went on to have two children. 
Ramon and Theresa moved the family to Orlando, Florida in 1979. This is where he would reside for the rest of his days. 
Ramon had many jobs, but he had a big heart for the elderly. He was blessed to be a part of Split Rock Nursing Home in the Bronx, as well as Central Park Village in Orlando.
Ramon was a lifelong boxing fan and rarely missed a fight. His love for Spanish music and avocados were undeniable. Most of all, he loved his family. They adored him and he was very fortunate to always be encircled by them.
Ramon leaves to mourn: his faithful wife Theresa, son Raymond (Yadira), daughter Anna Marie (Daryl), grandchildren; Thomas, Olivia, and Alex; his sisters Lydia, Ramonita, Constancia, and Maria Del Carmen. Also mourning him are many nieces, nephews, devoted family, and friends. 
He is predeceased by his parents, two brothers, and two sisters. Ramon left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He will be missed dearly. Ramon was a warm-hearted man and our love for him will live in our memories forever.
The family would like to express our gratitude for the wonderful help and tender care given by Cornerstone Hospice. We would like to express our heartfelt thanks for all the prayers, kind words of encouragement, and support during this difficult time. Thanks to Dobbs Funeral Home for excellent service with making all of the arrangements, and to Jeff Thompson at First Baptist Church of Orlando for graciously meeting with us to make the service such an honorable day for Ramon. 
A viewing will take place at 1pm on Wednesday, August 25th 2021 at Henry's Chapel, located at First Baptist Church of Orlando (3000 South John Young Parkway Orlando, Florida 32805). A service will begin promptly at 2pm at the same location. The service will also be livestreamed for family and friends unable to attend. This can be viewed on both Facebook and Instagram. Further information on the matter can be found on Anna Marie Lopez-White  and Theresa Saavedra Lopez’s social media accounts.

Thelma Kate Birmingham

 

Thelma was born on March 5, 1939, in Scott County, VA to Orban and Bessie Barnett.  She was graduated from Dobyns-Bennett High School in Kingsport, TN and attended the Salvation Army’s School for Officers’ Training.  She and her husband David,  were officers with The Salvation Army with over 30 years of service with assignments in the Kentucky-Tennessee Division, Florida Division and Atlanta Territorial Command.  She is survived by her sons Greg (Justine) Birmingham, of Ocoee, FL, and Mark (Lisa) Duke of Louisville, KY, two sisters Mildred Height of Dayton, OH and Rose Castle of Maysville, GA, one brother Bill Barnett of Rockford, TN, one grandchild, seven nieces, three nephews, and one great-nephew.

Thelma lived at the Grand Villa Assisted Living facility in Altamonte Springs, FL since 2016. She held Sunday worship services there and taught a weekly Bible class and enjoyed making beads and designing jewelry with friends.  She loved playing cards, board games, and working jigsaw puzzles, as well as coloring complex pictures.

About 15 years ago, Thelma was stricken with stage four ovarian cancer.  She survived, surprising her doctors, but has suffered greatly from the side effects of chemo and radiation.  In 2019 she learned that the cancer had returned.  She chose not to have chemo, radiation, or surgery.  She was under the care of hospice since October 2020 and was Promoted to Glory on August 7th, 2021. 

A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, August 21, 2021, at 11:00 a.m., at the Salvation Army Citadel Corps, 244 W Colonial Drive, Orlando,FL.

Maria Del Rosario Rivera Rodriguez

Maria went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on August 14th, 2021.  She was born on November 14, 1950 in Puerto Rico. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jose’ Rivera and Amparo Rodriguez and her brother, Angel Rivera. 

 

Maria leaves behind her beloved husband, Enrique Cruz of Orlando, FL and several nieces and nephews in North Carolina. Although Maria never had children of her own  she loved children and worked as a teacher. 

 

Maria was a godly woman that lived her life by the Bible. She had a wonderful sense of humor and loved a good laugh. Maria enjoyed watching Spanish soap operas, Westerns, beautiful flowers and her two chihuahuas. 

The family will be receiving friends on Friday, August 20, 2021 at 5:00 pm followed by a 6:00p funeral service at Dobbs Funeral Home with Deacon Spencer Silvers officiating.

 

James Thomas O'Neal Jr.

James Thomas O’Neal Jr passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on August 11, 2021.   Jim is the son of Eileen Higgins O’Neal and James Thomas O’Neal Sr, both deceased. He is survived by his wife, Sally McCracken O’Neal; his four children, James Thomas O’Neal III, Kelly O’Neal Kisla, Kathleen O’Neal Wells and Patrick Riley O’Neal; his siblings, Peggy O’Neal Weisenberger, Eileen O’Neal, and John “Doc” O’Neal; and his eleven grandchildren.

Jim was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on December 1st, 1945. He grew up in Carmel, Indiana, attended Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School  and graduated from Carmel High School. He played four years of varsity football and he was President of the Student Council. During his time at Butler University, he was in the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. On August 26, 1967, he married his high school sweetheart, Sally McCracken. 

He was in the newspaper and automobile businesses. He was a founding member of Holy Family Catholic Church for forty five years. Jim enjoyed golf, attending PGA events, travel and most importantly time with his family. He never missed a family celebration. 

 Visitation will be held at Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Carmel, Indiana on August 19th, 2021 at 3:30pm. Funeral mass to follow at 4:30pm.

 

John Charles Rackers, II

John Charles Rackers, II passed away on August 6, 2021 at the age of 85, in Orlando, Florida.  John had battled a serious illness for over a year and there were a number of times where his family thought they lost him.  But John always fought back, and always with a smile.  While God granted his family some borrowed time, He ultimately called John back home.

John was born on January 20, 1936, on a dairy farm in Jefferson City, Missouri, and grew up surrounded by a loving family.  Even before the rooster crowed, John would get up, get dressed, and work with his father (Poppy) - morning til night - milking the cows, feeding the chickens and pig, plowing, bailing hay, and generally tending to their 200+ acres.  He went to high school in Jeff City, where he played football and ran track.  John attended the University of Missouri and graduated in Civil Engineering.  With his work ethic from the farm, and an ethos from another era, he spent the next 40 years with the same company selling construction products.

John met the love of his life, Marlene, in Nassau, Bahamas at a Catholic Alumni Club retreat - the "CAC" or what Marlene ("Boo") thought John looked awfully handsome in his plaid Bermuda shorts and she was hooked.  They would marry, live first in Edina, Minnesota and then move to Atherton, California, where they raised three children.

John and Boo were married for 54 years.  John was devoted to Boo.  While not much of a cook, unless you liked your steaks well done, when Boo was recovering from knee surgery he cooked her pasta every night and made her pancakes every morning.  John was an amazing father.  Always the athlete, he coached his kids' soccer and baseball teams.  He taught them to golf, play tennis, and ski in Lake Tahoe, holding them steady between his legs, which had to be exhausting.  John was also an incredible grandfather.  He never missed a Baptism, First Communion, or graduation; and would travel the country at a moment's notice to spend time with his grandkids, even at a rain-soaked Michigan football game.  And John did it all with a smile and an infectious laugh.  No one remembers John saying a harsh word about anyone.  He was kind and welcoming, a pillar of his church and community, and always generous with his time and treasure.  John didn't have to know you to strike up a conversation, which he did often, sometimes to his family's embarrassment.  But that did not matter to John.  To him, everyone had worth and everyone had a story.

John loved his family, his church, his rose garden, and the family farm in Jeff City.  He loved watching sports, any sport really, but particularly his Golden State Warriors.  He loved John Denver, Harry Belafonte and Fiddler on the Roof, and singing (not always well) to their songs.  John loved to travel and he loved good food, especially vanilla ice cream with Baileys Irish Cream.  And John loved being spoiled by Boo.  In the end, while the hospital said no to the Baileys, John passed peacefully surrounded by his loving wife, his children and grandchildren, red roses , and John Denver's "Back Home Again" playing in the background as he journeyed home to heaven.

John is survived by Boo, his three children: Megan Morris (Craig), John Rackers (Vanessa), and Mark Rackers (Molly); nine grandchildren: Lennox, Luca, William, John Kelly, Miles Mia, Eliana, Emilia, and Jacob, his siblings: Lucille Krummen, Edwin (Mary) Rackers, Betty Boyd, Fred (Susan) Rackers, and Evelyn (Conrad) Rehagen; and more -than-you-count nephews, nieces, and cousins, who all loved John and will miss him terribly.  John was predeceased by his mother and father, and his brothers-in-law Delbert Krummen and Ron Boyd.

John will be honored at a funeral mass on August 20, 2021 at the Chapel of the Holy Family Catholic Church on 5125 S. Apopka Vineland Road in Orlando, Florida.  There will a biewing at noon, followed by the mass at 1:00 PM.

William Edward Weckbacher

William Edward Weckbacher (Bill)

Bill, age 81, of Orlando, FL passed away into Jesus’ arms on Monday, August 9, 2021.  He was born in Warren, Ohio and graduated from Cortland High School in 1957.  After graduating from Youngstown University he landed a job with Texas Instruments in Dallas, Texas where he was a design engineer assigned to the Apollo program.  While raising his two children alongside his late wife of 58 years Susan Weckbacher, Bill spent the better part of his career working at Lockheed Martin in Orlando, FL.  Many of the systems he designed or lead had a significant impact on the country’s defense systems.

He enjoyed hunting , fishing, gardening and a general love of the outdoors. His special love of growing Bromeliads lead to developing hybrids, which ended up registered in the Smithsonian.  Bill enjoyed collecting coins, fishing lures, rocks and guns. He was an expert at flint napping of arrow and spear heads. Whatever activity he took on, he would go all in with dedication to perfection.  Above all these hobbies he took great pride in his kids and his grandkids. He will be forever missed by all.

Bill leaves, to cherish his memory, son Thomas Weckbacher with his wife Julie Weckbacher and Daughter Jeanne Atalski with her husband Kevin Atalski.  Grandchildren Michael Watson, Ryan Weckbacher, LeeAnn Weckbacher, Tayler Weckbacher, Kelsea Hallberg, Kayla Wright, and Alexa Trull.  Bill had two loving sisters Linda Totten and Marilyn Picuri who currently reside in Cortland, OH.

Family welcoming guests to a Chapel service on Saturday, August 21, 2021 from 

1:00 – 2:00 pm

Dobbs Funeral Home

430 N. Kirkman Road

Orlando, FL  32811

 

And immediately following all Family and Friends welcome at Celebration of Life visitation anytime between 2:00 – 5:00 pm at

6843 W. Livingston St.

Orlando, FL  32835

 

Eudena McKoy

A legacy Worth More than Gold

The Eulogy of Eudine Hinds-McKoy

Eudine Hinds-McCoy embarked on her journey in mortality on Monday December 14^th, 1942.  She was the first child born to parents, Albert Hinds and Urinthia Curtis, in the farming community of Orange River, St Mary. The young family was of humble circumstances and both Albert and Urinthia labored diligently to provide the necessities of life for their new born. With the passage of time, Eudine was joined by a younger brother, Lloyd. However, the family union was short lived as a result of the premature separation of her parents. The sting of these circumstances, no doubt, provided much tutelage for Eudine in her formative years relative to the realities of life. Through her interactions with both parents, close family members, and community she was schooled in matters of the heart, religion, moral agency, hard work and discipline. As Eudine grew, these life lessons concretized into a fixed determination to better her circumstances and that of her future family.

Eudine’s ambition in life was no secret to those who knew her. Like most young ladies, she desired to one day have her own family and be able to provide appropriate circumstances befitting the rearing of children. Around 1958, she met and fell in love with Milford Clarke, a farm worker from her community. She was hopeful that this union would be the means by which her dreams of rearing the ideal family would be realized. The union produced her first child, Julette Clarke. She was overjoyed about the prospect of curating her own family, but this was short lived due to unforeseen eventualities. Though not the result she was expecting, Eudine gathered courage and with a fixed determination tried again, when a certain handsome fellow in the person of Lloyd Jackson called on her. The two courted and in time their union produced five children: Denzel, Joan, Owen, Junior and Wayne. The two settled their family in a humble community in Hopewell, St Mary. As a team, Eudine and Lloyd laboured tirelessly to satisfy the demands of their family. Eudine was especially keen on reinforcing the dos and the don’ts of life to her children. She insisted that their lessons at school be taken seriously and that their obedience and respect towards authority figures be forth coming in exactness. She further insisted that her children’s behaviour abroad was an exhibition of the values taught at home. Eudine spared no chance at reinforcing the idea that the gazes of her children should not linger towards the pitfalls that befell so many young people at the time.

After a valiant fight and admirable persistence to maintain the dignity of her family, the slowly brewing and ultimately unforgiving challenges of life took its toll, and waged some crippling blows to the relationship between Lloyd and Eudine. This resulted in the two separating.  Broken hearted, sad, and a little discouraged she found solace in the company of a kind friend, Noel Lee. The two grew fond of each other and in time this relationship produced her last child, Craig Lee.

Eudine’s love for her children could not be denied. After surveying their circumstances, and the difficult prospect of supporting them in achieving the kind of education that would make a sustained difference in their lives, she determined to seek opportunities outside of her present situation and space. In 1980 she travelled to Canada to seize the means by which her carefully calculated plans for her children’s success would be realized. While in Canada she obtained a job as a house keeper. This Job provided the means for her to send the needed resources for her children and pay her tuition for a dental course she was pursuing. In time, Eudine’s longing to be with her children triumphed and she resolved to return home to be with them in 1985.

 It was indeed a joyous reunion for Eudine and her children who were all now grown and certainly past the worst. Eudine’s labour of love was not in vain and she was able to find comfort and hope in the prospect of her children realizing a brighter future.

After the grand reunion with her children, Eudine started a business where she sold clothing and grocery items. It was during this time that she met and fell in love with Neville McKoy. The two got married and became business partners where they manufactured and sold scented and pastoral candles to churches and hotels on the island. The love between Eudine and Neville was unflinching and admirable, she was his lady and the love of his life and he, the apple of her eyes. The two lived happily for many years together while they served their community as devote members of the Roman Catholic Church. During this time of relative peace, tragedy struck the family with the loss of her fifth child, Junior Jackson in 2002. It was a difficult time, however, united, the family was able to bolster through this time of trial. Subsequent to this time of grief, it would be many years before the passing of her beloved husband Neville. Though difficult, she handled the circumstances with dignity and grace.

The Latter years of Eudine’s life marked a time of quiet reflection. After her best efforts, the dust had settled and the vision which she dreamed of as a little girl was now clear for all to behold.  All her children are now professionals in their respective careers. The effects of her push have now transcended generations, with each generation achieving more and more success academically and professionally. Some of whom have served in national and international capacities.

The path to the realization of Eudine’s dreams was certainly unconventional, yet in the end they were all realized.

On Thursday, August 5^th 2021, 79 years to the time of her birth, she departed mortality with a legacy that is sure to stand the test of time. She died leaving: 8 siblings, 6 children, 23 grand children, 14 Great Grandchildren, Nieces and Nephews, and other relatives and friends.

She might be gone from us for a season but her influence lives in and through us. Rest in peace Mama Eudine, God be with you till we meet again.      

Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm until 5:00 pm on Wednesday, August 11th, 2021 at Dobbs Funeral Home in Orlando.  The funeral mass will be held at 4:00 pm with Deacon Armand officiating.  A second service will be held on August 27, 2021 also at the funeral home.  The time will be posted at a later date.