Nancy Jane Cairns

1938 - 2022

Nancy Jane Cairns (Redner) passed away peacefully February 15, 2022 and was laid to rest with her late husband, William James Cairns at Woodlawn Memorial Park & Funeral Home in Gotha, Florida.

Born in Binghamton, New York March 27, 1938, to William and Lela Redner who moved there into a two-story, seven room home on 9 Kress Street after her Dad took a job with the Columbia Gas Company. She started life as a twin to Nanette, the youngest sisters to their siblings Will, Richard, Norma and Ruth – who named Nancy after their father’s sister. Nancy shared her memories of difficult times growing up during WWII with curfews and blackouts. And although the country was going through a time of depression, Nancy enjoyed wonderful Sunday meals, family reunions, Gas Company picnics and cherished the time spent with her older siblings that were either in college, married or in the military. She loved tea, reading (literature club), playing with paper dolls, roller and ice skating and occasionally going to the movies with her twin Nanette, brother Rich and friends.

If childhood can be held responsible for much of an adult's take on life, Nancy’s lifelong love of her family, friends and gatherings were born and nurtured during those difficult times. Nancy was baptized, had faith in God and attended High Street Methodist Church where she later taught Sunday school. Nancy graduated from the Binghamton City Hospital - School of Nursing on September 10, 1959 and later was re-certified as a Registered Nurse with the Florida State Board of Nursing June 12, 1964.

Nancy Redner married William “Bill” James Cairns June 13, 1959, in a double wedding ceremony with her twin sister, Nanette and John Bender and honeymooned in Niagara Falls, NY. Their first three children, Michael, Julie and Robert were born in Binghamton, New York. After they moved and began working in sunny Florida where Bill’s mother, Geraldine Misevich also lived, daughters Suzanne and Wendy were born in Orlando at Orange Memorial – the hospital where Nancy was employed as a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department.

Nancy Cairns was not only first, a proud Mother of five children, she enjoyed being a Nurse and serving others. She was proud to run the new Orange Vista Hospital in Lake Buena Vista, a part of the Orlando Regional Medical Center as their Head Nurse. The entire staff was not only a great team of dedicated, expert emergency department professionals but also dear and supportive best friends even after the facility was closed. Nancy also enjoyed working at Sand Lake Hospital and part time in the Walt Disney World and Arnold Palmer Golf Tournament First Aid Stations.

Nancy Cairns is survived by her son, Michael Cairns, DeeDee Diehl-Sherman, his son Matthew Cairns and daughter Nicole Cairns; her daughter Julie Hoffman and son in law Gary Hoffman; her son Robert Cairns, daughter in law Amy Cairns, his twin daughters Jamie Cairns and Alexis Cairns; her daughter Suzanne Elliott, son in law Marc Elliott and their daughter Kali Elliott; son in law Jeffrey Fagan and his daughter Leslie May Fagan. Nancy is pre-deceased by her Husband, William J. Cairns and daughter, Wendy Fagan.

All of the cards with well wishes, prayers and contact with relatives over the past few more difficult months were appreciated by Mom. She wanted to thank you for being a part of her life and say she loved you all dearly. If you wish to make a tribute to Nancy Cairns, you might plant a red rose bush, hang a cardinal ornament on your Christmas tree or make a memorial donation in her name to the charity of your choice. Remembrances of the many happy times with Nancy and her Cairns Clan, prayers and condolences to the family may be left on this website. Thank you and God Bless.

Andre Heinrich

It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Andre Heinrich, 87, of Bristol, WI. Andre passed away due to complications from a car accident sustained late last year.

Andre was a colorful character, with a big heart, and he will be deeply missed.

Andre was born on August 17, 1934 in Nimes, France and moved to the United States in the mid 1950’s.  He called Bristol, Wisconsin home since 1976.

Andre was a hard-working, loving Husband and Father.  He was quick to forgive, quick to apologize and extremely generous.  With minimal resources, but plenty of drive and determination, he built a comfortable life for himself and his family. 

A cabinetmaker by trade, and a jack of all trades, Andre could build and fix anything.  Andre enjoyed spirited conversations, especially about politics and religion.  He was a kind soul who would give you the shirt off his back.  At the time of his death, he was just 22 days shy of his 65^th wedding anniversary with his beloved wife Camille.

We are so grateful to have shared so many years with Andre.  He lived a long healthy life, and we know he is safe, happy and free in Heaven.

He will forever be remembered in our hearts and minds as the loving, kind soul that he was and continues to be.

He is survived by his wife Camille, 94, His daughter Nicole, His son Philip and his wife, Monica.

He was located in Clermont, Florida at the time of his passing, while still trying to recuperate from injuries sustained in the crash.  He was surrounded by friends and family at the time of his passing.

Services will take place online on Friday February 25 at 3:00PM from Dobbs Funeral Home in Orlando, FL.  A subsequent Spreading of Andre’s Ashes Ceremony will be held at his home in Bristol, WI.  A day and time for the spreading of ashes have yet to be determined.

William "Bill" Eugene Burkett

William “Bill” Eugene Burkett went to be with his Heavenly Father on February 17, 2022.  Bill is survived by his wife, Natalie Hewett Burkett, and his children, Sara Beth (Hunter) Bryant, Anna Burkett, Will Burkett, and Jordan Long, whom he loved like a daughter. He is also survived by his parents, Nathaniel “Bob” and Alma Thompson Burkett; his brother, Bob (Arlene) Burkett; his sister, Cindy (Hutch) Hutchison; brothers-in-law, Michael (Elizabeth) Hewett and Jamie (Juli) Hewett; eleven nieces and nephews, Martha (Jason) Brackett, Robert (Courtney) Hutchison, Brad (Hiromi) Burkett, Mary (Michael) Veira, Amy (Brad) Ruhmann, Angela (Tim) Young, Daniel Hutchison, Rebecca (Anthony) Tisci, Matthew Hewett, Bryce Hewett, and Hayden Hewett; and eleven great nieces and nephews, Madilyn Brackett, Jameson Brackett, Ashlyn Ruhmann, Brody Ruhmann, Joseph Goodman, Bryson Ruhmann, Ansley Ruhmann, Noah Tisci, Stephen Veira, Rachel Veira, and Nathaniel Burkett.

Bill was born in Orlando, Florida on July 15, 1959. He was raised in West Palm Beach, Florida, where he grew up attending Haverhill Baptist Church with his family. He graduated from Twin Lakes High School in 1977. Bill graduated from the University of Alabama in 1981 with a degree in Civil Engineering, and from Rollins College in 1989 with a Masters in Business Administration. He obtained his Professional Engineering license in 1985, and practiced engineering in Central Florida for over 40 years. In 1994 he was given the opportunity to accomplish his dream of owning his own engineering firm. Burkett Engineering, Inc. has been serving clients successfully for 28 years.

Bill moved to Orlando in 1982 to take a job with Kimley-Horn. He joined First Baptist Church Orlando and began serving as a Sunday School teacher in the youth department. He continued to serve as a teacher and deacon throughout all the years he was a member there. In 1988, he met Natalie on a singles retreat with the church. They became best friends and married on May 2, 1992. Raising Sara Beth, Anna, and Will was their greatest joy. In 2010, they joined Lifebridge Church Orlando where Bill served as a Life Group Leader, Deacon, and Elder. He dearly loved his church family and found great joy in serving.

Bill’s faith in God ran deep. He longed for others to know Jesus as Savior. He loved his family immensely. He was a man of integrity with endless patience. He was known to be dedicated and disciplined. He was known by his children as a “safe place.” He was described by a dear friend as “calm water.” He could be counted on. He was wise and compassionate. He was a lifelong fan of the Alabama Crimson Tide and loved the camaraderie he found throughout all his adult years in church softball leagues.

Bill will be greatly missed by his family and friends. There is great comfort in knowing that although he is no longer here with us in this temporary world, he is in the presence of his Lord and Savior waiting for us to join him one day. That is the hope that gives us the peace that passes all understanding. Bill would agree with David in his Psalm 23:6, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

There will be a Celebration of Life service for Bill held on Friday, February 25th at 11:30am at Lifebridge Church Orlando, 12120 Chase Road, Windermere.

Live streamed - https://lifebridgechurch.org/burkett

Bill took great pleasure in being generous as a way of expressing his gratitude for all God had given him. In lieu of flowers, a memorial giving fund has been established through National Christian Foundation. This fund will be used to support Bill’s church and other faith based charities that he was passionate about. Donations can be made by visiting this link: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0U6S00000cjjk7UAA 

Or, checks can be made out to National Christian Foundation with “The Bill Burkett Memorial Fund” in the memo line. Please mail checks to NCF at 15 N Eola Dr. Orlando, FL 32801.

 

 

Fritz DeSir, Sr.

Fritz De Sir, Sr., age 75, of Orlando, passed away Monday, January 31st, 2022 at AdventHealth Orlando,  He was born in Port Au Prince, Haiti,  the son of the late Polemis (Alesandre)  and Elius  DeSir and was employed as a hospital security director.  

Fritz is survived by his wife Lormilia (Fraglias) DeSir of Orlando; three daughters, Marie DeSir of New York, Nancy DeSir and Lordly DeSir both of Orlando; two sons Fritz DeSir, Jr., and Eugene Liddie, both of New York; two sisters Edith DeSir, and Carmen Surpris both of Orlando; brother Raymond DeSir, of New York; 15 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

The family will be receiving friends at Dobbs Funeral Home on Friday, February 11th, 2022 from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm.  Calling Hours on Saturday, February 12th, 2022 will be from 8:30 am until 12:30 pm, with a 10:30 Funeral Service at The Kingdom Church, 800 N. Pine Hills Road, Orlando 32808.  Interment will follow at Highland Memory Gardens at 1:15 pm.

Diane Xavier

Diane Xavier, age 50, of Orlando, passed away Monday, January 17th, 2022 at AdventHealth Orlando.  She was born in St. Lucia, Virgin Islands, the daughter of the late Maricy (Xavier)  and Klitus  Kangal and was employed in tourism as a receptionist.

She leaves to cherish her memory daughter Dianne Richard of Orlando.  The funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm at Dobbs Funeral Home on Thursday, February 10, 2022.

Maria Iosifovna Kelley

Maria Iosifovna Kelley, age 91, of Orlando, passed away Tuesday, February 1st, 2022 at Health Central Hospital in Ocoee.   She was born in Russia, the daughter of Iosif Nichov and was employed as a government controller.

Maria is survived by her daughter Lyudmila (Milyana) Jeye, of Orlando; 1 grandchild and  2 great grandchildren.

The family will be receiving friends on Wednesday, February 9th, 2022 from 12:30 pm until 3:00 pm with the Funeral service at 1:30p. with Father Andrey officiating at Dobbs Funeral Home.

Kevin Michael Alcott

Kevin Michael Alcott, age 65, of Orlando passed away Saturday, January 29th, 2022 at his residence.  He was born in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, the son  of the late Martha (Caulley)  and Charles W. Alcott and was employed in sales.

Kevin leaves to cherish his memory, daughter Noreen Shapiro of Tamarac, Florida.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Elliott Cleveland Williams

Elliott Cleveland Williams, age 74, an Environmental Services worker for Orlando Health for over 21 years, passed away on Wednesday, January 26, 2022.  He resided in Winter Garden for 23 years.

Elliott is survived by his sister Pauline Williams: brothers Gregory Williams, Nowell Williams; nephews Nowell Williams, Jr., Jonathan Williams, Michael Williams, Gregory Williams, Jr., Dwayne Williams, Abraham Williams, Jr., David Jr; nieces Christin Williams, Desiree Williams, Tammy Williams, Brandi; great nieces Lexi Williams and Ava Williams; 

He was born in New York, NY the son of Hensel Williams and Melvin Dalton.  He moved to Florida in 1991 and lived there until his death.

Elliot was an amateur chess player and enjoyed bowling.  His favorite music was by the Four Seasons, Spinners, and the Stylistics.  He loved playing video games and eating pizza and drinking soda.

He will be greatly missed by his friends, family and all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm on Friday, February 4th, 2022 at Dobbs Funeral Home.

Danny Lane Howell

Danny Lane Howell of Ocoee, Florida went home to be with his Lord on Wednesday, January 26, 2022, at the age of 71.  Danny was born on September 22, 1950, in Clarksdale, MS to Curtis Dewitt Howell and Hazel Marie Franklin.

He was preceded in death by his father, Curtis Howell and his sister, Sandra Carter.

He is survived by his mother, Hazel Howell; Brothers, Wayne (Marie) Howell, Rickey (Linda) Howell, Mark (Kathy) Howell; Children, Kimberly (Danny) Motes, Kelley Hudson, Scott (Erin) Howell, Austin (Brittany) Howell; Grandchildren, Dana (JT) Allred, Sarah Hudson, Jacob Motes, TJ Howell, Samantha Hudson, Nycole Cheney, Kori Howell, Miranda Howell, Maelynn Howell, Reagan Howell; Great Grandchildren,  Camden Allred, Kensley Gibson, Kade Allred.

Danny loved people and he loved to make you laugh.  He always had a joke to tell, a funny song to sing or to impersonate someone.  He was loved by so many.

He served as a city commissioner for the city of Ocoee from 1997 – 2006.  He coached little league baseball, umpired little league baseball, coached a boxing club, loved playing pool, golfing with his friends, hanging out with his brothers singing and playing the guitar, and watching his favorite football team, the Gators play.  But most of all he loved spending time with his family. 

Services will be held Saturday, February 5, 2022, at Glad Tidings Church, 2009 Fullers Cross Road, Ocoee, FL 34761.  Public viewing will begin at 11am with the service to follow at 12 noon.  He will be laid to rest at Orlando Memorial Gardens in Apopka, FL.

To all who loved our dad…. We thank you !

Laura Bishop Legeai

Laura Bishop Legeai, age 65, of Orlando, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 28th, 2022 after a hard-fought battle with Stomach Cancer. She was born in Baton Rouge, LA, the daughter of the late Jackie (Myers) and William Edward Bishop. 

A prayer warrior, she loved Jesus with her whole heart and was an example to anyone who knew her of a godly and generous woman. Her strength and grace were unmatched; she was thankful for each and every day with her feet firmly rooted in her unwavering faith. 

She delighted in her grandchildren and time spent with her dearest friends and family. Many considered her a best friend and confidant - the one to call for advice, the one to trust with your biggest secrets. She loved without reserve or judgment. 

Laura is survived by her husband of 44 years, James J. Legeai, Jr. (Jay) of Orlando; two daughters, Laura “Michelle” (Jeremy) Hill of Madison, MS, Elise Legeai of Orlando; two sons James (Brittany) Legeai of Pflugeville, TX, Steven (Catherine) Legeai of Thomasville, GA; two sisters, Susan Kees of Daphne, AL, Deborah Johnson of Greenwell Springs, LA; brother, Terry Bishop of Baton Rouge, LA; and 5 grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, February 5th, 2022 in the Henry Chapel at First Baptist Church of Orlando in Orlando, FL.

Donations can be made to World Vision or Donate Life Florida.

Her children stand and bless her; Her husband praises her. There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all! Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised. Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.  ~ Proverbs 31:28-31

 

Ronald Ray McDowell, M.D.

Ronald Ray McDowell, M.D. was taken into the loving arms of Christ Jesus, his Savior on Tuesday, January 25, 2022.  Dr. McDowell was born in Indianapolis, Indiana.  His parents were Charles Raymond McDowell and Rosemary June (Campbell) McDowell from Arcola and Chesterville, Illinois respectively.

He attended Indianapolis Public School #51 (James Russell Lowell) through the eighth grade.  Dr. McDowell was selected to play trumpet in the Indianapolis Public School All-City Symphony.  He participated in football, basketball, and track.  He was crossing guard Captain.

He graduated from Danville High School in 1966 as Salutatorian.  The family had relocated to Danville, Indiana in 1962 because of his father's employment for the New York/Penn Central Railroad.  He was class Treasurer, Band Captain, and President of the Latin and Science clubs.  He won multiple awards for solo trumpet, and band music competitions.  He frequently helped in the worship services and MYF at Danville, United Methodist Church.

In June 1970 Doctor McDowell graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology.  He was fortunate to play first trumpet in the Purdue University Marching Band for Professor Al Wright, and marched in the 1967 Rose Bowl Parade and Game.  Dr. McDowell graduated from Indiana School of Medicine earning a Doctor of Medicine Degree in February 1974.  He was a Life-Time Member of both the Purdue University and Indiana University Alumni Associations.

He moved to St. Petersburg, Florida in early 1974 for a Family Practice Residency at Bayfront Medical Center.  After becoming Board Certified in Family Practice he had a solo private Family Practice for eight years.  Dr. McDowell relocated to The Hobe Sound and Jupiter Florida area.  He helped open five Ambulatory Care Facilities for Martin Memorial Hospital.  He then helped open the new Fast Track facility of the Emergency Department in Munroe Regional Hospital in Ocala, Florida.  He then similarly helped open the new Fast Track facility in Lakeland Regional Emergency Department, Lakeland, Florida.

After moving to Orlando in 1990, Dr. McDowell provided medical care in Ambulatory Care Facilities in Lake Buena Vista, Florida owned by Orlando Health and later Centra Care owned by Florida Hospital.  At different times he was on the Medical Staff at both hospitals.  For a brief time he was Medical Director for the Wellness Center at the Darden Corporate office and the Reedy Creek Fire Rescue Services.

In January 2001, Dr. McDowell and his wife, Lisa, opened Windermere Family Practice and enjoyed treating and becoming friends with thousands of great Orlando residents.  In 2014 the medical practice was sold to Physicians Associates (Orlando Health).  He retired in July 2014.

Dr. McDowell was fortunate to be raised in a strong Christian family by loving parents.  He was raised a Methodist but after relocating to Orlando, he became a member of First Baptist Orlando where he was privileged to know a great number of the church members and staff, both as friends and patients, including Dr. David Uth and family.  He loved playing golf, especially with Brother Jim Henry and his wife, Jeanette.  He also enjoyed boating, and traveling to Key West.

Dr. McDowell is survived by his wife, Lisa Lloyd McDowell, and four children Matthew Ray (Land O'Lakes, FL), Melinda Anne (Steamboat Springs, CO), Ryan Christopher (Key Biscayne, FL), and Jennifer Leigh (North Bay Village, FL); Siblings, Richard (Jan) McDowell (Evansville, IN) and Renda (Roger) Riggs (Danville, IN). He was the proud grandfather of nine grandchildren.

The family will be receiving friends on Monday, January 31, 2022 from 1:00 until 2:00 pm, followed by the funeral service in the Henry Chapel of First Baptist Church of Orlando.  Interment will follow the 2:00 pm service at Dr. Phillips Cemetery.

The family requests that any donations should be made to First Baptist  Church of Orlando.

Adonnis DeAndre Cora

Adonnis DeAndre Cora, 30, of Orlando, passed away Monday, January 10th, 2022 at Health Central Hospital in Ocoee.  Born March 6, 1991, to Vikki M. Cora & Robert Early. He was born a twin to Adrienne Cora at Winnie Palmer Hospital in Orlando. He worked as stocker for Walmart & porter at burger king giving them the best service. 

Adonnis would also assistant his sister Adrienne with her project such as providing service at Valencia Film Festival & Orlando film festival. He kept his sister focused and organized and made sure the home was taken care of. He would feed and help those in need because he watched his mother Vikki do it. He gave his life, love, and time to his family & friends. His laugh, smile, personality, and spirit will dearly be missed.

Calling hours will be held 10:00 am until 12:00 pm on Thursday, January 27, 2022, followed by the funeral service with Pastor Darrel Rewis officiating at Dobbs Funeral Home.

Anthony Phillip Pernice

Anthony Phillip Pernice, 33, of Winter Springs, passed away unexpectedly on January 17th. 2022.  He was born in Kansas City, Missouri to loving parents, Phillip and Valerie (Mayer) Pernice, and he filled their lives with joy.

Anthony graduated from Winter Springs High School in 2006 and later successfully completed a degree in Mathematics at the University of Central Florida. He was passionate about music and had an affinity for animals. Anthony was loving, loyal and kind to his family and friends and he was excited for his future. His family was proud of his growth and was hopeful for all that life had to offer him. His presence is sorely missed and his loss deeply felt. 

Anthony was a loving brother to his sister, Alexandra (Pernice) Etayo, brother-in-law to Edward Etayo and doting uncle to his niece, Annalise Etayo. He leaves his maternal grandmother, Beverly Mayer and his paternal grandmother, Rosetta Pernice, as well as his many aunts, uncles and cousins. Anthony is predeceased by his maternal grandfather, Bill Mayer and maternal uncle, Lynn Mayer as well as his paternal grandfather, Rudy Pernice.

A private funeral service will be held per the family’s request.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made in Anthony's honor to: Orange County Animal Services, Pet Rescue & Adoption Center, 2769 Conroy Road, Orlando, FL 32839. http://www.orangecountyanimalservicesfl.net

 

Emiro Ojeda Fernandez

Emiro Ojeda Fernandez, 74, of Maracalbo Venezuela, passed away Saturday, January 15th, 2022 at Health Central Hospital in  Ocoee,   He was born in Maracaibo, Venezuela,  the son of the late Luzmila (Fernandez)  and Emiro  Fernandez and was employed as a beverage sales manager.

Emira leaves to cherish his memory, wife Ana Luisa  also of Venezuela; daughter Ana Monica Ojeda, of Orlando; son,Alfredo Ojeda, of Chile'; 3 grandchildren; Santiago Govea, Laura Govea both of Orlando and Paula Ojeda of Chile'.

The family will be receiving friends from 4:00 until 6:00 pm with the funeral mass at 5:00 pm on Monday, January 24th, 2021 at Dobbs Funeral Home, with Father Heitor Castoldi officiating.

ORACION

Oh Dios, cuya Misericordia es infinita y cuyos tesoros de compasion no tienen limites, miranos con Tu favor y aumenta Tu Misericordia dentro de nosotros, para que en nuestras grandes ansiedades no desesperemos, sino que siempre, con gran confianza, nos conformemos con Tu Santa Voluntad,  la cual es identica con Tu Misericordia, por Nuestro Senor Jesucristo, Rey de Misericordia, quien con Vos y el Espiritu Santo manifiesta Misericordia hacia nosotros por siempre.  Amen.

Lall Beharry

Lall Beharry, age 72, was a caring husband, loving father of three children and an affectionate grandfather of four grandchildren. Lall was born on July 5, 1949 in Bath Settlement, Guyana and grew up surrounded by his large family where he had 9 brothers and 3 sisters.

He was known for being a kind man with a warm spirit. He had a passion for playing cricket when he was in high school and even went to the extent of scoring well over a century (187 runs) in a single game!  As a cricket player he had the position of being a top end fast bowler along with being an excellent batsman. In his village, he was acknowledged as being the most feared cricket player they had ever seen.

While Lall resided in Guyana he took on the job of being a carpenter as well as working on an estate. From there he decided to move to the United States on May 17, 1979 along his family and ended up in Cleveland, Ohio. From here now, he worked long hours as a machine operator in which he took the responsibility of taking care of his wife and kids. Lall was influenced by his family to be a loving and caring man, always giving his time for others, and he incorporated that into his fatherhood. He was known for spoiling his kids along with his grandchildren with anything they wanted. When it came time to having breakfast or dinner he would prepare his famous dishes for the family.

In his leisure time, he loved working in his garden planting various plants, playing ball with his grandkids and fishing. Aside from all of this he was a dedicated Hindu who followed his religion to the best of his abilities. Lall even when on to teach his kids and grandkids about the Hindu faith and had them engaged in religious service. 

Lall was known for having nicknames such as Nemo. He is a devoted and well respected individual that will be greatly missed by his family and friends. In addition, he will be dearly missed by his wife, children and grandchildren and will continue to live in their hearts and minds forever.

Visitation will be held from 7:00 pm until 10:00 pm on Monday, January 24, 2022, followed by the funeral service on Tuesday, January 25, 2022 from 9:00 am until 11:15 am at Dobbs Funeral Home.  Interment will follow the service at Metro Crematory in Ocoee.

OM NAMAH SHIVAYA

Luis Fernando Velez

Luis Fernando Velez Restrepo, 65, of Orlando FL, passed away, Sunday January 9, 2022 at his home with the love of his life, his wife. 

A celebration of life service will be held on  Wednesday January 19 at Dobbs Funeral Home, 430 N. Kirkman Rd, Orlando, FL 32811.

Luis was born July 28, 1956 in Colombia. He lived most of his youth in Medellin, Colombia. Were he married the love of his life Miryam (Vargas) Velez in 1982. In 1983 they welcomed their first child, a son, Johao Fernando Velez.  It was later that year that they decided to make a change, and they migrated to the United States. A few years after in 1987 they welcomed their second child, a daughter, Kelly Velez. They settled in Port Chester, NY and lived their until 2018. When they finally retired and moved to Florida.

Luis loved sports, especially soccer, where his favorite teams were the Colombian National soccer team and Athletico Nacional. He worked as a maintenance manager for 20 years. He spent his free time watching various sports games live and on TV; and he played soccer, ping pong and swam on the weekends. He also enjoyed movies and playing on his tablets. Luis was always there to spend time with relatives and friends and help with household projects.

Luis is survived by his wife Miryam of 40 years, son Johao Fernando Velez, daughter Kelly Velez, and 5 grandchildren Luis, Elyjah, Faith, Leyah, and Isaac. Luis was a loving father, husband, grandfather, and friend to everyone. He brought a smile to everyone’s face with his laugh and his charismatic way of life.

Scott Woodruff

Scott Woodruff was born September 13,1971 and passed away December 15, 2021.  He was a kind loving man. He loved his family and friends with all his heart and was a firm believer that "family helped family".

Scott worked at Sea World Orlando for more than 20 years. He loved sharing his park tickets and showing friends around the park.  Scott also loved to fish it didn’t matter if it was in a small pond or out on the ocean.

Scott and I reconnected in 2004. Our families have known each other since Scott was 3 and I was 5. I never expected to meet such a loving caring compassionate faithful man, but I am thankful I did and it was Scott.

Scott had several medical conditions, when we first reconnected he told me of his rheumatoid arthritis and how it he was in pain all the time. Even though he was in pain everyday it never stopped Scott from getting up and going to work everyday. In 2018 Scott had a massive heart attack. This changed our lives as we knew it.

We were married in the hospital and I was by his side all the way. Scott hated being in the hospital because it was never a quick stay.. but he found a way to laugh and make others laugh as well and it usually involved scaring a nurse or even a Dr. This was something he continued at home with the nurses as well. It was what he loved to do most.

Scott has gone on to a better place where he no longer suffers from his arthritis, heart condition or infections. Although he left us way too soon, we have a life time of memories to share.

Ruth Ard Giddens

Ruth Ard Giddens passed away peacefully surrounded by her daughters in the early morning hours on December 11, 2021, at the age of 86 years young.

Ruth was born to James and Lillie Mae Ard on February 18, 1935, in Damascus, Georgia and moved to Orlando at a young age.

 Ruth and her husband, Earl, raised their four children in Orlando, Florida. She also raised up many grand and great grandchildren thought-out her years, always affectionally known as Granny to them. Ruth had a way of taking anyone in and many neighbors have come to know and love her. She had a close relationship with all of her children, and she will be dearly missed. 

Ruth was preceded in death by her mother, farther, husband, all of her brothers and sisters as well as her beloved Son Ronald E. Giddens. 

Ruth is survived by her three daughters, Patricia Diane Patton, Shirley Ruth Lay, Connie Sue Foley, as well as her 6 Granddaughters, 3 Grandsons, 10 Great Granddaughters, and 7 Great Grandsons

The family will be receiving friends at 10:00 am followed by the funeral service at 11:00 am on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at Dobbs Funeral Home.  Interment will follow the service at Greenwood Cemetery.

Florence Frana

Florence Frana, age  83, of Clermont, FL passed away Tuesday, December 14th, 2021 at Health Central Hospital in Ocoee, Florida.  She was born in Nanticoke, PA , the daughter  of the late Mary (Drazba)  and Stanley J. Wasilczyk. and employed as a clerical worker at Disney. 

Florence is preceded in death by her parents Stanley and Mary; husband Bobby, sons Robert, James and Michael and brother Stanley.  She is survived by daughter Lynda Frana of Groveland; and son Joseph Frana of Clermont; daughter-in laws Missy and Lisa; grandchildren Trevor, Shelby, Alyssa, Logan, Hope and Jacob; and great granddaughter Stella.

The family will be receiving friends at 10:30 am on Monday, December 20, 2021, followed by an 11:30 am funeral mass at St. Andrew Catholic Church with Father Bob Kurber officiating.

Reba M. Clinton

Reba M. Clinton, age 98, of Winter Garden, passed away Sunday, November 28th, 2021.  She was born in Wrightsville, GA  the daughter a  of the late Lizzie (Eady)  and Archie  Tanner and was employed as a railroad clerk.  

Reba leaves to cherish her memory, daughter, Clarice Clinton-Davis, of Winter Garden;  grand daughter Victoria Williams of Winter Garden; grandson Benjamin Williams, III of New York; great grandchildren - Crystal Williams, Benjamin Williams IV both of Orlando, Keilyn Solomon of Winter Garden; 9 great-great grand children,

The family will be receiving friends from 10:00 am, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 am on Wednesday, December 8th, 2021 at City of Destiny Church in Apopka, FL .  Interment will follow the funeral service at Orlando Memorial Gardens.

Dear Mom,

 Thank you, Mom! Thank you for loving me. Thank you for all those words of     wisdom   that  are  resonating in my ear and providing solace during this trying time.

You prepared me for life and for your death. You said that when God called you that you would answer, and you did. You told me that you loved me, that you would regret leaving me, but your higher duty was to God!

You left me that night and I turned my head to shed a tear. When I turned back to look at you, I saw my Godmother. She was just smiling. I realized that she was reminding me of the deep enduring friendship that you shared. I turned away again and when I looked at you, I saw my aunts and uncles. It reminded me of the familial relationships that I grew up observing. By now, the tears were streaming down my face, and I turned away.

When I turned back there was a peaceful smile on your face that soothed my aching heart and dried up my tears. I saw you as a little girl growing up in Dublin, Georgia romping and playing. I saw the good times and the hard times: the loss of your brother under mysterious circumstances and the time that you were violated, and no one was held accountable. I saw the hunger for a better life that led you at age 16 to leave home, after graduating from high school, for greener pastures in Harlem, N.Y.

I saw you falling in love and marrying my father, which resulted in the birth of five children, with only1 surviving. Through the losses and the heartache, you were a caregiver for your mother, a loving wife and mother and Transit Authority Clerk.

You took great pride in the fact that you were a faithful member of Emanuel A.M. E. Church for over 40 years. You served as an usher and a senior class member to assist new members and assist the church in raising money and spreading the gospel to those outside the faith. Your reasonable service brought you joy and peace in leading others to Christ.

So, today I salute you for your strength and courage, for never giving up and instilling these qualities in me. Thank you. I love you, until we see each other again.

Your Loving Daughter,

Clarice

My Grandmother:  By   Benjamin F. Williams, Ill

My maternal grandmother was not just a grandmother, she was grandmotherly. She was a fount of wisdom and knowledge that was not gained from just sitting behind a desk for hours upon hours in an institution of higher learning. Her perspective was gained by living through the Jim Crow south, World War 11, the Al Capone era, the civil rights movement, #Me too, Black Lives Matter, and the covid pandemic. So, when she shared her views and opinions, it came from the blood, sweat and tears of life.

She lived 98 years which meant that she saw more than all of us, she never judged. She told you what she thought and why, then let you decide what to keep and what to discard. She understood that her idiosyncrasies and opinions could be shared but not always adopted by the listener.

If life was a hardship, church provided support and joy. The gospel was her cane. Spirituality  washer most enduring pleasure. Grandma loved Sunday service. When I did not pray, she prayed for me. When I embarked on my own spiritual journey, she did not judge me, but merely stated, "as long as you believe in something baby."

No matter where I was in my life's journey, I always sought my grandmother's opinion. Good, bad, or indifferent, she imparted the truth. She was my Rock of Gibraltar, steady unmovable. I could not fathom life without her. We are a small family, that has now been decreased by one. But I know that she is looking down on us, as our guardian angel, making sure that we are all okay. No matter what I may have done, what may have been said about me, or how many times I may have been scolded, Grandma always came to see about me to make sure I was all right in every capacity, day after day, and week after week.

From here on out the months of my remaining years will be aptly renamed June, July, August, September, October, November, December, January, February, March April and Reba-May, RIP.

Your Loving Grandson,

Ben