Alice Wilson Adams, 94, died October 4, 2017 after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease at the Quality Health Nursing Home in Fernandina Beach.

Alice was born on October 31, 1922 to Ruth and James Wilson in Asheville, N.C., where she graduated from Stevens Lee High School.

Alice married Ralph B. Adams on August 4, 1942 in Long Branch, N.J. They were married for 67 years. Ralph preceded her in death in 2009. To their union, they had two loving daughters, Joyce Adams Frink (Neil) of Fernandina Beach and Beverly Adams Mantz of Washington, D.C. Alice also had a devoted step-daughter, Xernna Adams Davis (William) of Pittsburgh, Pa. She has one grandson, Sharif Adam Frink (Dania) of Jacksonville. The second oldest of 10 siblings, Alice leaves to mourn her sisters, Harriet Wilson Danner of Asheville, N.C. and Daisy Wilson Jones of Columbus, Ohio; and her brothers, Larry Wilson and George Wilson, both of Columbus. Alice leaves many loving nieces, nephews and friends as well.

Alice received her bachelor's in early childhood education from Philadelphia Community College and master’s degree in education from Temple University. She and Ralph raised both their daughters in Philadelphia, where she also taught in public schools for 10 years. After which, she moved back to Asheville with Ralph and taught for 29 years until retirement before moving to Florida. 

Alice was passionate about helping others. In her spare time, she served the homeless and wrote and produced a play titled Sylvia Anchorage benefiting the Stephen Smith Home for the elderly in 1958.

She was also an active in member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority in both Asheville and Jacksonville until she wasn’t able to participate due to her decline in health.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. October 12, 2017, at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Fernandina with burial at Pine Green Cemetery in Yulee.

To sign Mrs. Adams' online register book please visit the Green Pine website at www.greenpinefuneral.com.

Green Pine Funeral Home, Cremations & Cemetery

John Paul Gray, 52, of Fernandina Beach went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, October 3, 2017, while on a business trip in Atlanta. 

Born on April 5, 1965, he was the son of Barbara Dickerson Gray and the late Thomas Marshall Gray. John was raised in Charleston, W.V., where he developed a love for baseball and the great outdoors. John graduated from Stonewall Jackson High School in 1983 and graduated from West Virginia Tech with a mechanical engineering degree in 1987. After college, John joined the United States Navy and became a commissioned officer on the USS West Virginia out of Kings Bay, Ga.

After the Navy, John was employed by Georgia-Pacific in Brunswick and settled on St. Simons Island. John discovered a love for the coast, met his wife, Robi, and started a family. He began his employment at Rayonier Advanced Materials on July 16, 2008 and transitioned his family to Fernandina Beach in 2014. John was the manager of engineering and maintenance. He helped to build boiler programs and improve reliability for Rayonier. He was also president of the Black Liquor Recovery Boiler Advisory Committee (BLRBAC) and helped to develop industry standards for pulp and paper mill boilers nationally.

It was on Amelia Island that John and his family would spend their happiest days together. John began collecting shark’s teeth during their trips to the beach. He enjoyed working in the family garden and continued his lifelong passion for baseball.

John passed this love on to his sons who all played baseball as well as other sports at various levels. John always told his sons, "Be a good man first and a good baseball player second." 

John leaves behind his wife of nearly 20 years, Robi Britton Gray; sons, J.T., Dave, Rob, Sam, Tom; his step-daughter, Harvest; his mother, Barbara Gray of Charleston, W.V.; his sister, Tonya Propst of Myrtle Beach, S.C.; and his niece and nephew also of Myrtle Beach.

Services will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday, October 10, 2017 at St. Peter's Episcopal Church with The Reverend Stephen Mazingo, Rector.

In lieu of flowers, a scholarship memorial for John’s five sons has been established at youcaring.com/robigray-970631.

Please share his Life Story and leave your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Elizabeth “Betsy” Lacoss Jones of Fernandina Beach passed away on October 3, 2017, surrounded by her family.

The daughter of Donald A. Lacoss and Louise Emlaw Lacoss, Betsy was born in Cumberland, Md., on May 29, 1940. The family, including older brother Dennis, soon moved to Rock Hill, S.C., where Betsy attended Winthrop Training Academy.

In Rock Hill, Betsy mastered the fine art of torturing student teachers, managed to earn a spot as a majorette in the marching band, modeled for a local department store and satisfied her love of beach music and shag dancing by sneaking off to Myrtle Beach whenever possible.

A debutante who had thank you cards written within minutes of opening a gift, purchased presents for every occasion months in advance and refused to wear white before Memorial Day, Betsy was a Tri Delta sorority sister at Duke University, where she earned a degree in math. While at Duke, she also met her future husband, Clayton W. Jones, on a blind date. After graduation, Betsy worked on computers at Bell Labs while waiting for Clayton to graduate from Duke Law School.

Married on August 29, 1964, the couple lived in cities around the world, including Atlanta, Ga., Caracas, Venezuela, Washington, D.C., the Philadelphia area, London, England, Prague, Czech Republic, Durham, N.C., Hilton Head Island, S.C., Asheville, N.C., and Fernandina Beach. 

In 1985, Betsy took the Internal Revenue Service’s Special Enrollment Examination and recorded one of the top 20 test scores nationwide. When stateside, Betsy spent several seasons working as a tax preparer at H&R Block in West Chester, Pa., and at Carey & Co., P.A. on Hilton Head Island.

An avid collector favoring egg cups, sheep memorabilia and original, handcrafted jewelry, artwork and wood furniture, Betsy was also an avid reader, animal lover, bridge player and golfer with current memberships at Reems Creek Golf Club and Amelia River Golf Club.

Betsy leaves behind her husband of 53 years, Clayton W. Jones of Fernandina Beach and Weaverville, N.C.; daughter, Allyson Jones Tant of Hilton Head Island and Hardeeville, S.C.; son-in-law, John Tant and grandson Wyatt Tant; daughter, Victoria Jones of Westtown, Pa.; brother, Dennis H. Lacoss and sister-in-law, Jet Lacoss, of Atlanta, Ga.; nephews, Donald and Jim Lacoss; niece, Liane Lacoss; sister-in-law, June Browning of Madison, Fla.; nephew, Dennis Clayton Browning; niece, Sherri Browning Gonynor; as well as a number of lifelong and newfound friends.

A memorial service will be held at a later date with interment at Six Oaks Cemetery on Hilton Head Island. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Duke University Cancer Institute or The Nature Conservancy.

Stephen “Bryon” Pierce, 53, of Yulee passed away on Tuesday, October 3, 2017 at Southeast Georgia Health Systems.

He was born on April 21, 1964 in Newcastle, Ind. to Steven Bennett and Mary Frances (Burns) Pierce.

In the fall of 1979, Bryon moved to Florida, where he spent his teenage years. He became a volunteer firefighter for Flagler County at the age of 16. He worked as a paid firefighter with Kings Bay Fire Department for two years. In 1985, Bryon started his career with Nassau County Fire Rescue. He was one of the founding members of the newly formed county fire department, and one of the only employees to retire with a full 25 years of state retirement. Bryon shaped and influenced just about every current member of NCFR.

He took pride in everything about being a firefighter. Because Bryon was a true servant of the community, he was invited to become a member of the Masonic Lodge. Bryon loved the outdoors. He was an avid boater, fisherman, hiker, and hunter. After retiring from the fire department, Bryon developed a love for motorcycles. He helped establish Odin’s Council and enjoyed a brotherhood with his fellow members.

He leaves behind his parents, Fran Gray and Steve (Carmen ) Pierce; daughter, Caroline Pierce and her mother, Jennifer Pierce; son, Chance Pierce and his mother, Whitney Broyles; siblings, Ron Pierce, Jim Cox, Brent (Susan) Pierce, Michelle Counceller, Stephanie Pierce, and Grant Gray; and many aunts, uncles and extended family members.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 7, 2017 at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church with the Reverend Stephen Mazingo, Rector officiating.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at Oxley-Heard.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his name to Magic Foundation, 4200 Cantera Dr., No. 106, Warrenville, IL 60555.

Please share his Life Story and leave your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Mr. Robert Eugene Spangler, Sr., 82, of Amelia Island passed away on October 2, 2017 at Community Hospice & Palliative Care’s Warner Center for Caring in Fernandina Beach, Fla.

He was born on October 9, 1934 in Lancaster, Ohio to the late Homer and Edna Buehler Spangler. He graduated from Lancaster High School, where he played football, and then attended and graduated from Ohio State University. Mr. Spangler then joined the U.S. Air Force from ROTC as a lieutenant. He wore many hats, including being a farmer, entrepreneur and land developer. He had a love for flying, skiing and his beloved Australian cattle dog, Bonanza.

Mr. Spangler, a longtime resident of Amelia Island, served on the Fernandina Beach Economic Development Board and the Vocational Education Committee. 

His final months were blessed with a wonderful caregiver, Margarita Rojas, whose devoted efforts and those of Vitas and the Warner Center for Caring, made his transition easier and more comfortable for the entire family and grieving friends.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Jodi, children, Robert Spangler Jr. of Vail, Colo. and Stacie (Eric) Westerhausen of Cherry Creek, Colo.; sisters, Joyce Rife and Dorothy Johnson of Lancaster, Ohio; daughter-in law, Katalin Spangler of Buffalo, N.Y.; step-daughter, Stacy (Edward) Benson of Gulfport, Fla.; grandchildren, Wesley, Naomi, Coco, Ava, Christian and Ande; nieces, Beth (Rick) Deeds, Becky (Gary) Hughes and Danielle Reeves, all of Lancaster, Ohio; and favorite cousin William (Kathy) Eaton of Amelia Island.

His family, friends and Fernandina airport buddies wish him Godspeed and “wind beneath his wings.”

A Celebration of Bob’s life will be held in November at the Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport.

Memorials may be made in his name to the Nassau Humane Society, 639 Airport Road, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034.

Please share his Life Story and leave your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Barbara Sue Armstrong, 52, of Fernandina Beach passed away on Wednesday, October 4, 2017.

Barbara Adams Armstrong, 52, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, October 4, 2017.

In 1983, she married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, John Fred Armstrong III. They went on to have two wonderful children, Johnny and Caitlin Armstrong, who were her entire world. She was a godly woman who always put others before herself. In 2015, she received her greatest joy, a grandchild, and was then blessed with two more in the following years. There was nothing that made her happier than spoiling and spending time with them and family.

Over the years, Barbie had suffered with pain and sickness due to the illness scleroderma but never complained and continued to put the needs of others before her own. She was the rock of her family and will be greatly missed by many.

She is survived by her husband, John Armstrong III; children, John Armstrong IV (Heather) and Caitlin Armstrong (Justin); grandchildren, Finley and John Armstrong V and Luke McIntyre; grandmother, Virginia Lee; parents, Neil and Sue Adams; siblings, John Adams (Shari), Pam Hayes (David), JL Adams (Amanda); and numerous nieces and nephews.

Condolences may be expressed by donating to Nemours Children’s Hospital or the Scleroderma Foundation at www.sleroderma.org.

Services were held at 11 a.m. Monday, October 9, 2017, at the Memorial United Methodist Church. The family received family and friends from 10 a.m. until the hour of service at Memorial Methodist Church in Maxwell Hall.

Please share her Life Story and leave your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

The Lord called Ronald Dean Braddock Sr. home October 2, 2017 in Callahan at the age of 69, following a lengthy battle with his health. 

Our “Miracle Man” defied the odds countless times after suffering a cardiac arrest in July 2014 while out on a boat. For the past three years, our beloved family man has fought to regain his strength and continued to stay “Braddock Strong.” Early Monday morning, Ronnie succumbed to his illness and went home to be with the Lord and all those who preceded him in death. 

Ronnie is survived by his wife, Lissa, of 45 years; twin brother, Donnie, and brother, Dale (Carol); children, Ronnie Jr. (Kadie), Erin (Chris), Lauren (Shea) and Natalie (Bryan); nine grandchildren; and a large extended family, including a very special nephew, Alex Croft, who helped care for Ronnie since his illness.

Ronnie was born in Callahan to Donald and Claudine Braddock. He graduated from Callahan High School in 1966 and Henderson State University in 1971, where he joined ROTC. Ronnie served in the U.S. Army until 1974 as a first lieutenant, then in the Army Reserves.

In 1972, he married his college sweetheart, Lissa, while they were both teaching at Hilliard Middle School. He went on educate and coach hundreds of Nassau County students for the next 11 years before turning his attention to his businesses. He owned and operated Super Test Food Store and Braddock Transport Trucking in Callahan.

Anyone who knew Ronnie Braddock knew of his love for football. After high school, he played linebacker for the Henderson State Reddies, then went on to play in the American Football Association for the Chicago Fire, Texarkana Titans and the 1979 AFA champions, the Jacksonville Firebirds. After his years of playing football, Ronnie coached hundreds of players in Nassau County and helped many of them to the collegiate level, often sending them to his alma mater. He was inducted into the Henderson State Reddies Hall of Honor in 2006. 

Most currently, Ronnie was an elected official for the Nassau County Port Authority. He held his position for the last 16 years. 

Ronnie had a reverent love for his Lord, his family and his friends. He never met a stranger and waved at everyone he passed on the road. He could always be counted on to share a story or help a friend in need. Ronnie will forever be remembered as the most loving, kind, generous and special husband, Daddy and friend. 

Please keep the Braddock family in your prayers.

Marguerite Diane Carroll, 83, of Amelia Island passed away on Wednesday, August 30, 2017. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Sunday, October 15, 2017, in the Burgess Chapel of Oxley-Heard with her son, Jim Aker, officiating.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Phyllis Curtright, 54, of Yulee passed away Saturday morning, October 7, 2017, at Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, October 13, 2017, in the Stephens Chapel at Green Pine Funeral Home with Pastor Adam Page officiating. Interment will follow in Green Pine Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, October 12, 2017, at the funeral home.

Green Pine Funeral Home, Cremations & Cemetery

Susan B. Randers, 70, of Fernandina Beach passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Saturday, October 7, 2017 in the care of Community Hospice & Palliative Care’s Warner Center for Caring in Fernandina Beach, Fla.

Eternity Funeral Homes & Cremations – Nassau

Evelyn L. Cobb died October 6, 2017. She was a faithful member of Victory In Christ Bible Church, Elder W. F. Faust Jr., pastor. She was also a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and the Class of 1965 of New Stanton High School. Memories will be cherished by son, Lucious Cobb; daughter, Alesia C. Peterson; mother, Louise Cobb; sisters, Mary Calhoun, Linda Hanrahan (Michael) of Newport Beach, Calif.; other relatives and friends. Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 14, 2017, at New Dimensions Church of God By Faith, 3142 Edgewood Ave. W., Jacksonville. The late Ms. Cobb will rest at Victory In Christ Bible Church, 2525 W. Edgewood Ave., for visitation of friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, October 13, 2017, and in the church on Saturday morning from 9:30 a.m. until the hour of service. Interment will be in Restlawn Cemeteries.

Marion Graham Mortuaries

Mildred “Renay” Demps, 56, was born to Mildred Butler Staten and Ostean Demps, Jr. on July 23, 1961 in Fernandina Beach. Renay transitioned peacefully on Saturday evening, October 7, 2017, while surrounded by her loving family at Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville.

Renay attended Fernandina Beach High School. She was employed at Amelia Island Seafood with her father, Ostean Demps Jr. Renay was a lifetime member of Macedonia African Methodist Episcopal Church, where she served as a Stewardess. Renay enjoyed solving crossword puzzles, playing mahjong and solitaire. She exemplified her skill in crocheting blankets and making pillows. She loved singing her favorite song, “Going Up Yonder.” She also loved and enjoyed close fellowship with her family.

Renay will be sorely missed by those who mourn her passing, including two daughters, Karen Demps of Fernandina Beach and Portia (Mouhamed) Dembele of Jacksonville; her parents, Mildred Staten and Ostean Demps Jr., both of Fernandina Beach; her sisters, Glenda Brown, Teresa Demps, Tracey Middleton and Starletha (Jimmie) Williams; her brothers, Ostean Demps III and Ronald Demps; grandsons, Tyshawn and Keshawn Demps-Moore; nieces, Cierra Middleton, Tia Harris, Keisha Harris, Shakinna Dill, Lutece Hooks, Crystal Brown, Lakeira Brown, Tameka Demps-Frye and Rhea Demps; nephews, Troy Harris, Anthony Brown, Rodrick Dinkins and Ostean Demps IV; a special friend, Daniel Fernandez; and a host of loving aunts, uncles, great nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, October 14, 2017 at the Macedonia AME Church, 202 S. Ninth St., Fernandina Beach with Rev. Anthony Daniels, pastor and officiant. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, October 13, 2017 at the Martin Luther King Center, 1200 Elm St., Fernandina Beach and 11 a.m. until the hour of the service at the church. Interment will be in the Bosque Bello Cemetery.

Sarah L. Carter’s Funeral Home

Richard Daniel Groover Sr., 74, of Fernandina Beach passed away on Monday, October 9, 2017 on Amelia Island.

In the summer of 1963, Richard returned home from Korea to grieve the loss of his father, not knowing he would kindle a love with a girl with whom he once walked the halls of his school. They married that same year and knew they were soul mates. Fifty-four years later they still are.

Richard was a man of honor. That honor was the promises he made through a strong handshake. He found joy by helping anyone in need. He was always there to lend an ear to listen and speak words of truth and wisdom. Richard could most of the time be found high in a tree or under a hood of an old truck. In his spare time he enjoyed time on the water fishing with his family. Richard served his country, community and most of all, his family. He loved teaching life lessons through the stories he told. His faith kept him grounded and humble throughout his life. He was known as a "jack of all trades" whether that be his military service, entrepreneurship, gifted mechanical skills, or his love of being an arborist. His greatest contribution in life was his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His legacy is of love, faith, honor, and respect.

Mr. Groover was predeceased by his parents, Woodrow Wilson and Bobby Ida (Elson) Groover; his son, Richard Daniel “Danny” Groover  Jr.; a sister, Nina Mary Groover; and two brothers, Charles “Spuggy” Groover and Jimmy Groover.

His surviving family includes his wife of 54 years, Lois Groover; three daughters, Nina (Joe Boatright) Groover of Fernandina Beach, Kimberly (David) Thomas of Fernandina Beach and Deanna (Wayne) Groover Williams of Yulee; a daughter-in-law, Ginger Groover Akemon, widow of Danny Groover of Otisco, Ind.; three sisters, Sharen (Larry) Gilmer of Yulee, Karen (Wayne) Combs of Yulee, and Cristy (Randy) Scott of Fernandina Beach; nine grandchildren, Matthew (Ashley) Thomas, Joey (Logan) Boatright, Destiny Bass, Shelbie Groover, Jake (Emily) Boatright, Dalton (Trina) Williams, Aaron Groover, Jade Groover and Bradly Thomas; eight great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 14, 2017 at the First Assembly of God in Fernandina Beach with Pastor Ed Shick officiating.

The family requests in lieu of flowers please make donation through First Assembly of God, 302 S. 14th St., Fernandina Beach, FL 30234 for Lois and Richard Groover. 

Please share his Life Story and leave your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Brother Abraham “A.B.” Richo transitioned peacefully on Tuesday, October 10, 2017 in Jacksonville at the age of 93. He was born August 31, 1924 in Chester, Fla. to the late Mary Ella Hooper-Richo and Japannah Richo.

Abraham “A.B.” attended the public schools of Nassau County and was employed at Rayonier, Inc., Fernandina Beach until he retired.  He was a very faithful and active member of the Elm Street Church of God in Fernandina Beach until his failing health.

He leaves to cherish his memory a loving and devoted wife, Dorothy Thompson Richo of Kings Ferry, Fla.; stepson, Louis Jordan of Kings Ferry; brothers, Johnell (Deloris) Richo and Jerome (Jeanette) Richo, both of Fernandina Beach; sisters, Gladys Middleton of Chester, Hattie Joseph of Gautier, Miss., Mary E. (George) Thompson and Geraldine Walker, both of Fernandina Beach; grandchildren, Jamie Glover of Fernandina Beach; Louis Jordan II and Brian (Ivy) Jordan, both of Kings Ferrym and Desmond (Jennifer) Jordan of Orlando, Fla.; great-grandchildren, Brian Jr., Cameron, Jaylen, Palmer and Marguarite Jordan; son-in-law, Michael Johnson of Fernandina Beach; sisters-in-law, Evelyn Jordan of Kings Ferry, Edna Brown of Tampa, Fla., Thelma Albertie of Sandhill, Fla., Jereline (Lawrence) Williams of O’Neil, Fla., Grace (Charles) Mitchell of Fernandina Beach, Willie Mae (John) Ewing of Clarksville, Tenn., Bernice Thompson of Yulee, and Katrina (Granderson) Davis of St. Marys, Ga.; brothers-in-law, Sammie (Kay) Thompson of Kings Ferry, Willie (Eva) Thompson and Kalvin (Erin) Thompson, both of O’Neil; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and sorrowful friends. 

Homegoing Celebration in his memory will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 14, 2017 at River of Praise Worship Center, 83410 St. Mark Drive, Yulee, Florida. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, October 13, 2017 at Elm Street Church of God, 502 South 11th Street, Fernandina Beach, and from 9:30 a.m. to the hour of the service Saturday at River of Praise Worship Center. The cortege will line up at Elm Street Church of God at 10 a.m. the morning of the service. Interment immediately following service will be in Bosque Bello Cemetery in Fernandina Beach.

Huff Funeral Home

Melissa Marie Sluder died September 26, 2017 due to medical complications.

Melissa was born March 25, 1975 at Keesler AFB in Biloxi, Miss. She was living in Americus, Kansas at the time of her death.

Melissa is survived by her son, Garrett Sluder; daughter, Decoda Sluder; brother, Richard Sluder; father and step-mother, Richard and Lynn Sluder; paternal grandparents, Luther and Mary Sluder; step-maternal grandparents, George and Jennie Crady. She is also survived by her mother, Charlotte Hathaway Sluder Stalvo and step-brother, Shawn Stalvo of Minn.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday October 14, 2017 at the Moose Lodge No. 2352 at 850682 U.S. 17 in Yulee. All are welcome.

Katherine (Kay) Ann Yudt, 76, entered into her eternal home on September 18, 2017 at Hilliard Assisting Living located in Columbus, Ohio with two of her children by her side. Kay previously lived in Indiana as well as Boca Raton and Fernandina Beach, Fla. A final move to Columbus, Ohio, allowed her to spend more time with family.

Born December 8, 1940 in Chicago, Illinois, the eldest of five siblings, Kay was predeceased by her parents Thomas and Betty Hardin. Kay was married to Michael F. Yudt for over 35 years. Their life together was filled with traveling, socializing, and enjoying each other’s company. Kay quickly surrendered her battle with dementia when they recently started living apart.

Kay leaves behind five children, Kelly (Rick) Evans of Georgia, Rob Urbanek of Michigan, Kathy Urbanek of Ohio, Fred (Annie) Urbanek of Ohio, and Karen (Merrick) Morris of Pennsylvania; 12 grandchildren,  Ashley (Matt) Beer, Amanda (Charley) Connolly, Zachary George, Jenna George, Jessica Urton, Jack, Julia, Luke and Ava Morris, and Max, Grayson, and Sammy Urbanek; and three great-grandchildren, Ezra and Milo Beer and Charley Connolly IV. Also surviving her are her four siblings, including Judy Hardin of Indiana, Janet Kirgan of Texas; Bill (Carol Jean) Hardin of Hawaii; and Tom (Geri) Hardin of Texas, along with many nieces and nephews.

Kay was a 1958 graduate of William Wirt High School and a 1978 graduate of Indiana University, where she studied nursing. She worked as a nurse at Mercy Hospital in Hobart, Ind. She was an avid gardener who loved raising orchids. Long walks on the beach with her dear friends was a favorite activity. Her laugh was infectious and she always stopped to talk with people wherever she went.

The family would like to thank the staff of Hilliard Assisted Living and Memory Care and Kindred Hospice, both of Columbus, Ohio, for their care of Kay. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Central Ohio Orchid Society in her name, in care of Edna Markley, 906 N. Stygler Road, Gahanna, OH 43230.  Following her wishes, memorial services are private.

Thomas Jesser "Tom" Dietz, 75, of Fernandina Beach passed away peacefully surrounded by his family in the care of Community Hospice & Palliative Care’s Warner Center for Caring in Fernandina Beach, Fla.

Eternity Funeral Homes & Cremations – Nassau

Richard D. Groover, 74, of Fernandina Beach passed away on Monday, October 9, 2017.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Deborah Harrington, 63, of Fernandina Beach passed away on Tuesday, October 10, 2017.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Thomas Jesser Dietz, 75, of Amelia Island and previously of Bedford Hills, N.Y., passed away peacefully on October 8, 2017 at the Retreat at Osprey Village in Fernandina Beach after suffering from Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

Tommy was the beloved husband of Marcia Tetelman. He is survived by his children, Seth (Penny) Dietz of Charlotte, N.C. and Kelly (Nat) Arata of Sandwich, Mass., along with his two grandsons, Miller and Watson Dietz, and countless extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth Kohl and William Dietz, and his brother, Peter Dietz.

Tommy received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of New Hampshire in 1964 and an Master of Arts in Education from New York University in 1967. He was an insurance executive and a dedicated member of the insurance community. Tommy was a leading independent insurance agent who testified and appeared before national and state regulatory boards in matters affecting medical malpractice, consumers and independent agents.

Tommy purchased a Bedford Hills independent insurance agency that he grew into the largest producer of school bus business in the Northeast. He then founded Medical Professional Liability Agency (MedPro) in 1986, which specialized in medical malpractice insurance. Tommy served as president and CEO of MedPro and later as a senior vice president of Frontier Insurance Company.

Tommy was a past president of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of New York State and also served as a director for the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America national association. In 2004, he was awarded the Woodworth Memorial Award, the highest honor bestowed by IIABA, in recognition of his outstanding service.

Contributing to his local community was also very important to Tommy. He was a life member of the Bedford Hills Fire Department for 52 years. Tommy served as past commissioner of the fire district as well as engineer and lieutenant of the Engine Company. Tommy also served in the Bedford Hills Chamber of Commerce and the Bedford Hills Lions Club and was a member of the Bedford Farmer’s Club and a founder of the Bedford Hills Historical Museum.

Tommy had an exuberance and zest for life that was unsurpassed. His infectious spirit and charisma impacted all who were fortunate enough to be with him. Tommy was a wonderful cook and together with Marcia, they opened their homes to everyone. Tommy liked nothing more than to share his love of good food and wine with friends and family. He brought joy to every gathering, showed compassion to those who needed it and displayed a generous spirit of giving.

Tommy and Marcia first visited Amelia Island for an insurance convention in 1991 and returned several more times before purchasing a second home in 1997. Tommy especially loved his weekly visits to the Fernandina Beach farmers market, where he had a great rapport with the local vendors.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, November 10, 2017 at Memorial United Methodist Church in Fernandina Beach. A celebration of Tommy’s life will be scheduled at a later date in Bedford Hills.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tommy’s name to the following organizations:

• Cats Angels, Inc. SPCA, P.O. Box 16072, Fernandina Beach, FL 32035

• Community Hospice & Palliative Care, 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257

• Bedford Hills Fire Department, 332 Bedford Road, Bedford Hills, NY 10507

It is with great sadness that the family of Elaine V. Hadley, 87, announces her passing on Friday, October 13, 2017 in Fernandina Beach.

She was born on March 28, 1930 in Williamsport, Pa. to the late John and Catherine (Detweiler) Saville.

Elaine was a retired registered nurse and was a member of the Eastern Star of Yardley, Pa. She was an active member of the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Fernandina Beach. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother.

Elaine will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Peter Hadley; children, David Hadley, Susan McEwen and Jeffery Hadley; sisters, Marjorie Ruch and Edith Hendrick; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of her Life will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 21, 2017 at the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her memory to the Organ Fund at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 2600 Atlantic Avenue, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034.

Please share her life story and leave your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Mac Arthur Howard, 75, of Fernandina Beach passed away Tuesday evening, October 10, 2017 at Baptist Medical Center Nassau in Fernandina Beach.

Mr. Howard was born September 24, 1942 in Goshen, Ala. to the late Arthur Rayfield and Maudie Lee Howard.

Growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, Mr. Howard was a member of Mount Zion Church of God and Christ and accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age. He began preaching the gospel at the age of 12 years old. He built a small church, Faith Tabernacle, affiliated with the Church of God in Christ denomination in Cleveland, Ohio. After ordination, Elder Mac A. Howard pastored a small congregation for a number of years. Mac was a graduate of Glenville High School in Cleveland and earned his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the Fenn College of Engineering at Cleveland State University.

Mr. Howard’s professional career included responsible technical sales and marketing positions in a number of Fortune 500 firms, including General Electric Company, Reliance Electric, leading mass media firms with national and international coverage, Walmart and Aflac Corporation. Mac received a number of awards and commendations for superior performance and accomplishments during his professional work career.

He was an extraordinary musician and music teacher who played keyboards, guitar and trumpet. Mac was an accompanist for soloists and choirs. Mr. Howard was a private person – reserved, patient and kind. He had a quiet, gentle way of speaking truth and creating peaceful environments and interactions with nearly everyone.

Mac was predeceased by his parents and six siblings. Survivors include his wife, Barbara Howard, of Fernandina Beach; his daughter and son in law, Faith and Kevin Rowell of Houston, Texas; a son, Mac Howard Jr. of Cleveland, Ohio; sister, Lucy R. Dillard of East Point, Ga.;  brother and sister in law, Ray F. and Sharon H. Howard of Locust Grove, Ga.; a granddaughter, Brianna Rowell; and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, October 20, 2017 in the Stephens Chapel at Green Pine Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the Green Pine Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the hour of the service Friday at the funeral home.

To sign Mr. Howard's online register book, please visit the Green Pine website at greenpinefuneral.com.

Green Pine Funeral Home, Cremations & Cemetery

David Cory McQueen passed away August 6, 2017 at Huntsville Memorial Hospital in Texas.

Born in 1957 in Atlanta, Ga. to Edward F. McQueen and JoAnne H. Gilmour, he graduated from Fernandina Beach High School, Class of 1975. David entered the United States Marine Corps in 1975 and served four years. He was then employed at Kings Bay Naval Air Station prior to entering the U.S. Army in 1982. After serving four years, he entered the Federal Aviation Administration in 1986. He performed duties as an air traffic controller at facilities in California, Arizona and Texas. He retired out of Bush Intercontinental Tower in Houston, Texas in 2007. In his retirement, David enjoyed horses on his ranch in New Waverly, Texas.

David is survived by his mom, Mary Ellen McQueen; sisters, Mary Reagan Bishop and Kim McQueen Stewart; brothers, Steven, Patrick and Michael McQueen; children, Heather, Robert, Sean and Madison; and five grandchildren.

Memorial service with military funeral honors and interment will take place at 10:30 a.m. Friday, November 3, 2017 at Jacksonville National Cemetery, located at 4803  Lannie Road in Jacksonville.