William F. “Bill” Miller III, 70, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Monday, February 25, 2019 at Baptist Medical Center Nassau.

He was born May 10, 1948 in Atlanta, Ga. to the late William Flynn Miller Jr. and Carolyn Morrison Miller. His family moved when he was a baby to Fernandina Beach, where he grew up and graduated with the Class of 1966 at Fernandina Beach High School. Bill was always athletic and excelled at baseball starting in high school. After graduation, he attended Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and then graduated from the University of Georgia with a bachelor’s degree in forestry. While at UGA, he lettered in baseball and was in the Sigma Chi fraternity.

In 1972, Bill met the former Nancy Ritch in Jesup, Ga., and they married in 1973. His employment as a forester had the family residing all over the southeast. For 33 years, Bill worked for Union Camp Corporation and International Paper in various jobs including regional manager in Alabama, South Carolina, and Georgia. Most recently, he was the vice president of forest operations for F & W Forestry Services. He served as the president of the Georgia Forestry Association and also of the UGA Warnell Alumni Association and Big Jay Hook. He was a member of the Society of American Foresters and was elected SA Fellow in 2012. He was inducted into the Georgia Foresters Hall of Fame in 2012. Bill was also an officer in the Georgia Army National Guard.

In 2011, Bill and Nancy returned to Fernandina Beach, where he enjoyed “semi-retirement” playing tennis and watching any and all sports and Georgia Bulldog football. He was a member of the Kraft Tennis Club and the “Council Group” which consisted of gentlemen from “Old” Fernandina who would gather together every morning for coffee at the high school baseball field. He was an active member of First Baptist Church and the Joy Sunday School Class.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents.

He leaves behind his wife, Nancy R. Miller of Fernandina Beach; children, Carrie Miller Molinari and her husband, Steve, of Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., Katie Miller Bennett of Macon, Ga., and Flynn Miller IV and his wife, Brook, of Athens, Ga.; grandchildren, Drew, Dean and Kate Molinari, Libby and Davey Bennett, and Wills and Doss Miller; sisters, Marilyn Miller of Jacksonville, Fla., Marcia Vincent of McDonough, Ga., Jan (Bill) Henning of Oxford, Miss., and Julia (Mike) Burch of Jesup, Ga.; brother-in-law, Tom and Ashlyn Ritch of Rome, Ga.; and sister-in-law, Anne and Mark Miller of Jesup. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, February 28, 2019 at First Baptist Church with Pastor Zach Terry officiating. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the hour of the service at the church. He will be laid to rest in Bosque Bello Cemetery.

Donations may be made in his memory to First Baptist Church, 1600 S. Eighth St., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

The graveside service for Mrs. Sylethia I. Shafter will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 2, 2019 in the Bosque Bello Cemetery, located at 1320 N. 14th St. in Fernandina Beach, Fla. A public viewing will be held 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. Saturday, March 2, 2019 at the Huff & Battise Funeral Home. The cortege will assemble at 10 a.m. at Huff & Battise Funeral Home.

Huff & Battise Funeral Home

William A. “Wild Bill” Cantwell, 65, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Monday, February 25, 2019.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Mary M. Freeman, 90, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Thursday, February 21, 2019.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Glenda Gaines, 72, of Yulee, Fla., passed away February 25, 2019 at Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 2, 2019 at Yulee Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Green Pine Cemetery. The family will receive friends from noon until the time of the service Saturday.

Green Pine Funeral Home, Cremations & Cemetery

Rosan Habegger, 89, passed away Saturday, February 23, 2019.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Joseph Alva Pascarella, 92, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Tuesday, February 26, 2019.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Martin A. Rourk, 80, passed away February 22, 2019. A memorial service was held at 3 p.m. Sunday, February 24, 2019 with Rev. Alan White officiating.

Green Pine Funeral Home, Cremations & Cemetery

Teresa Eleanor Wickham, 66, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Sunday, February 24, 2019. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, March 2, 2019 at Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors with visitation from 2 to 3 p.m. Details of a reception to follow are to be decided.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Michael Anthony “Doc” Brown, 59, passed away February 26, 2019 in Memphis, Tenn., where he lived for many years. Michael was born February 7, 1960 in Fernandina Beach.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Aldo R. W. Brown Sr. and Jeanette Calhoun Brown, and his sister, Lora Brown Williams.

Michael will be remembered by his wife, Darlene Mosby Brown; his children, Darren (Susanna) Brown, DeAnna Brown, Christopher (Andrea) Brown, and Michelle Brown; four siblings, Sharon (Clary) Jamison, Aldo (Ella) Brown Jr., Kevin (Corliss) Brown, and Edward (Tia) Brown; godmother, Betty Jean Kerr; godbrother, Dwayne Butler; two grandchildren; and a host of other close family and friends.

Homegoing Service and interment will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 9, 2019 at Whispering Pines Cemetery, located at 86050 Pinewood Drive in Yulee, Fla., with Rev. Darien Bolden Sr. officiating. Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Friday, March 8, 2019 at J. E. Fralin & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services, located at 5065 Soutel Drive in Jacksonville.

J. E. Fralin & Sons Funeral Services

Larry Virgil Davis, 65, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away March 2, 2019.

Larry was a native of Fernandina Beach and was born December 28, 1953 to Stella Davis and the late Virgil Davis. After graduating from Fernandina Beach High School in 1971, Larry went on to work at Rayonier, where he retired after 42 years. In 1985, Larry married the love of his life, Debbie Tanner. Together, Larry and Debbie had two sons whom they raised into strong, kind and courageous men.

Larry could often be found outdoors, and he was always living life in the moment. Larry took time to notice the special gifts in nature. He and Debbie loved to watch nature’s animals at their home, especially hawks that chose to nest in their yard. He could often be found riding his bicycle, and he rode many miles in the Nassauville area. Larry was an avid Gators and Marlins fan, and he enjoyed many sports, especially baseball. He taught his sons the love and skill of baseball and was recently doing the same with his grandchildren, Walker and Ansley. Larry enjoyed caring for his home and was always making improvements to make it even more special for his family. Larry never met a problem he could not solve, and he was able to build almost anything.

Above all, Larry loved his wife and family. He is beloved by a multitude of family and friends and will be missed dearly every day.

Larry was preceded in death by his father, Virgil Davis.

He is survived by his mother, Stella Davis; his wife, Debbie; son, Matthew Davis (Sarah); son, Kyle Davis; brother, Troy Davis (Gayle); sister, Linda Powell (Andreu); grandchildren, Walker and Ansley; and a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 9, 2019 in the Burgess Chapel of Oxley-Heard in Fernandina Beach with Chaplain Jackie Hayes officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 a.m. He will be laid to rest in Bosque Bello Cemetery.

The family requests that donations be made in Larry’s name to the American Cancer Society.

Please share your memories at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

James Lawrence “Larry” Keller, 69, passed away Wednesday, February 13, 2019 at Malcolm Randall VA Medical Center in Gainesville, Fla.

He was born November 1, 1949 in Orlando, Fla. Larry grew up in Fernandina Beach, Fla. surrounded by cousins and friends in the close-knit community of Old Town. Larry loved fishing and exploring the waters of the Amelia River and Egans Creek as well as sailing on the Atlantic Ocean.

He married Leigh Keller on June 18, 1983 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Fernandina Beach.

Larry enlisted in the United States Navy in 1967 and served his country proudly. Larry was employed by Florida Public Utilities in Fernandina Beach for 14 years. Then, Larry and Leigh chose to realize their dream of living aboard. They purchased their sailboat Now Voyager and spent 12 wonderful years as citizens of the boating community.

Larry loved sailing and cooking – a combination that earned him the nickname "Sailor Chef." He was also a gifted woodworking craftsman and accomplished carpenter, leaving a remaining legacy of remarkable projects – both large and small – he had completed over the years. Larry loved music, and was inspired, uplifted, and healed by listening to his favorite artists – both family members and friends, as well as internationally recognized performers. Not one day went by that Larry didn't have music playing for hours.

In addition to his parents and stepparents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, William Allen “Billy” Keller and Raymond Harold Lucas, and a sister, Denise Dimkoff.

He is survived by his wife, Leigh Keller of Gainesville; his daughter, Jennifer Keiser (Jody) of Yulee, Fla.; sisters, Nancy Thompson (Truman) and Linda Robbins; and brothers, Ricky Lucas (Faye), Kevin “Jack” Keller, Todd Keller, and David Bissett, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

Larry was cremated, according to his wishes. A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held 5-7 p.m. June 18, 2019 at the Florida House Inn in Fernandina Beach.

Mrs. Betty C. Long, 96, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Saturday, March 2, 2019 at Quality Health.

Born December 30, 1922 in Atlanta, Ga., she was a daughter of the late H. W. and Rachel Bradford Cheney. Mrs. Long attended school in Fulton County, Ga., and upon graduation, she enrolled at Georgia State College for Women in Milledgeville, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in English and Latin.

After marrying Ashburn, Ga. native James Leonard Long Sr., they moved to Jesup, Ga., where he worked for a local pharmacy. After the birth of their daughter, Beth, they relocated in 1953 to Fernandina, where he was employed at Waas Drug Store for many years. Their son, James, was born in 1955. Mrs. Long taught seventh-grade English at Fernandina Beach Junior High School from 1967 until her retirement in 1980.

Mrs. Long was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and the Fernandina Beach Woman’s Club. She was an avid golfer and also a member of the Nine Hole Women’s Golf Association. In her spare time, she loved cross stitching and playing Bridge and was involved in women’s activities at First Presbyterian Church. Mr. and Mrs. Long were active in the Terpsichorean Club in Fernandina Beach.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James L. Long Sr.; two older sisters, Nancy Wynn and Patty Nix; and her beloved dogs, Pumpkin and Honey.

She leaves behind her daughter, Beth (Steve) Rich of Edisto Island, S.C.; her son, James L. Long Jr. of Fernandina Beach; her sister, Barbara Keel of Atlanta, Ga.; grandchildren, Tom (Donna) Rich, Courtney Rich Hanson, and Timothy (Joy) Rich. She also leaves behind four great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 7, 2019 at First Presbyterian Church with Pastor Wain Wesberry officiating. The family will receive friends 5-7 p.m. Wednesday evening at Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors. She will be laid to rest beside her husband in Bosque Bello Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Nassau Humane Society, 639 Airport Road, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Robert “Bob” Monson, 98, who spent nearly all of his retired years in Fernandina Beach, passed away early on March 1, 2019 at the home of his daughter, Fredericka Kessler, in Versailles, Ky.

Robert was born February 5, 1921 in Burlington, Iowa. After graduating high school, he attended the University of Iowa. He received a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering along with honorary degrees in chemistry and engineering. During his senior year, Robert took a hiatus to work on the ALCAN highway, built to connect the contiguous United States to Alaska, across Canada. He returned to Iowa to complete his studies and graduated in the summer of 1942. He joined the U.S. Navy and served admirably for three years. Bob shipped out to Annapolis, Md., and under the “90-Day-Wonder” program, as it was known, he received the stepped-up, intensive three-month officers training course. Soon thereafter, he found himself on a destroyer, the Osmand Ingram, “APD-35.” It was aboard this vessel that Officer Monson served in the Mediterranean during the invasion of southern France, performed submarine duty in the Atlantic, then moved on to the Pacific Theater, where his warship was apportioned as an attack transport and convoy escort and was involved in the Battle of Okinawa against the Imperial Japanese forces, the last major battle of World War II and one of the deadliest.

After he was discharged from the military in 1946, Robert accepted a position with DuPont in Buffalo, N.Y. It was there where he took a shine to a co-worker in the department by the name of Sarah. Robert married Sarah Catherine Breslin on February 11, 1950, creating a loving bond that lasted 69 years until his death.

Robert worked as a chemical engineer for Dupont for 37 years. His career enabled the Monson family to enjoy residing in such locales as New York, Ohio, South Carolina, Delaware, and Kentucky, as well as in Europe – specifically the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg – before he retired in 1983. He was fortunate to have spent nearly as many years in retirement – 36 total – where he pursued his love of sailing, with Sarah, aboard Sandpiper, a 34-foot Aloha sailboat. Their adventures included sailing from the craft’s point of purchase in Ontario, Canada, and down the Intracoastal Waterway to their future home on Amelia Island. Over the ensuing years, Bob collected nearly a dozen sailing trophies, including one for “Rookie of the Year.” He and Sarah sailed all around the Caribbean, including a couple of memorable jaunts to the Bahamas. Whether by sea, land or air, travel was a pronounced part of Robert’s life as he, Sarah, and the family collectively visited exotic locations in several dozen countries on five different continents around the world. Bob was a lifelong and avid golfer, proud of his membership in the famed “Lemonade Boys” at FBCC. He loved his music, and he liked to dance to swing and Sinatra. He could swing a mean hammer as well. Devoted to family, he especially loved reunions and the many family gatherings at their home at Christmas time – the more the merrier. Along with his wife, Sarah, Bob was active with his church, St. Michael Catholic Church in Fernandina Beach, singing hymns with the church choir.

Robert was preceded in death by his brother, Harold.

Robert is survived by wife, Sarah; sons, Christopher (Ann) of Wilmington, Del., Stephen (Laura) and Joseph (Lisbet) of Minneapolis, Minn., Martin (Stacia) of Seattle, Wash.; daughter, Fredericka (Rick) Kessler of Versailles, Ky.; granddaughter, Shawna Monson; and grandsons, Nickolas and Dylan Monson and Ryan and Andrew Kessler.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 9, 2019 at Clark Funeral Home with Fr. Miguel Alvizures officiating. Visitation will be held from 1 p.m. until the start of the service at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.clarklegacycenter.com.

Clark Funeral Home

Roma F. Norris, 81, of Yulee, Fla., passed away Saturday morning, March 2, 2019 at Baptist Medical Center Nassau in Fernandina Beach, Fla.

Ms. Norris was born April 14, 1937 in an area of Yulee known as Chester and was a lifelong resident of the area. She was a member of Blackrock Baptist Church. She loved to cook and enjoyed gardening and sewing. She was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother.

Ms. Norris was predeceased by her husband, Donald Hamilton; her parents, Sidney A. and Geneva Bennett Freeman; and by her seven brothers and sisters.

Survivors include her son, Winton Brett Norris (Tara) of Yulee; her daughter, Rhonda N. Hutchison (Mike) of Fernandina Beach; grandchildren, William Hutchison, Winton Hutchison, Brittany Turner, Brooke Turner, Justin Norris, Julia Norris, and Jacob Deen; a great grandchild, Eli Hutchison; numerous nieces and nephews; and special friend, Betty Benton.

Graveside funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 7, 2019 at Chester Cemetery.

To sign Ms. Norris' online register book, please visit the Green Pine website at www.greenpinefuneral.com.

Green Pine Funeral Home, Cremations & Cemetery

Mr. James “Jim” Joseph Stoffel, 86, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Wednesday, February 27, 2019 at his home.

Born in Huntington, Ind., he was a son of the late Frank Joseph and Mary Gill Stoffel. He attended the local schools of Huntington, and it was in Huntington, as a youth, that he would find his lifelong passion. He worked for two years as the assistant golf professional at the La Fontaine Golf and Country Club in Huntington.

After serving his country in the U.S. Navy, Jim would continue his lifelong pursuit as a golf professional. Over the years, he served as the head golf professional at the Jacksonville Country Club in Jacksonville, N.C., Shaw Air Force Base in Sumter, S.C., and the Surf Golf and Beach Club in North Myrtle Beach, S.C. He was also owner of the Carolina Shores Golf and Country Club in Calabash, N.C. and was co-owner of the Royal Amelia Golf Links on Amelia Island, Fla.

Jim married Rosemary Maples in 1952, and they were the proud parents of seven children. Rosemary passed away in 1988.

Jim was a Third Degree member of the Knights of Columbus for 68 years. He was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church and was active in the St. Michael Men’s Club. In addition to his church life, he was an ardent hunter and fisherman.

In 1991, he married Renée Edmonson of Lake Norman, N.C., and after residing in North Myrtle Beach for eight years, they moved to Fernandina Beach to retire.

In addition to his parents and his first wife, Jim was preceded in death by a four-year-old son, Michael, in 1969.

He leaves behind his wife, Renée; his six children and their spouses, Cary and Susan Stoffel, Karon and Steve Kightlinger, Debbie and Sloan Wright, Mary Ann and Bob Vespa, Ronald and Jamie Stoffel, and Kathleen and Kenneth Siler; and Renée’s son and his wife, Jimmy and Julie Edmonson, and their three sons, as well as his 18 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 7, 2019 at St. Michael Catholic Church in Fernandina Beach with Fr. Jose Kallukalam, celebrant. A reception will follow in the parish hall. Jim will be laid to rest at a later date in North Myrtle Beach.

In his memory, the family asks that memorials be made to Community Hospice & Palliative Care, 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxley-heard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Blanca Acosta Tatum, 83, of Port St. Lucie, Fla., passed away February 27, 2019.

Blanca was born in Manhattan, N.Y. to the late Victor Acosta and Estela Acosta (Rabainne). She relocated to Lake Worth, Fla. before residing in California from 1970 to 2000. From 2000 to 2016, Blanca was a resident of Amelia Island, Fla. In 2016, she settled on The Treasure Coast, which she called home until her passing. Blanca was a graduate of Katherine Gibbs College and spent many years working as an executive secretary. She was active as a Jaycee wife, along with her volunteer efforts with El Camino Hospital in California and Tradition Medical Center in Port St. Lucie. In her spare time, Blanca enjoyed playing Bingo and travelling. Blanca and her husband, John, went on 37 cruises. Blanca was a loving mother to her daughter, Karen, and a doting grandmother. Blanca cherished the time she spent with her family and friends and adored her daughter and grandchildren.

Blanca is survived by her husband, John Tatum; daughter, Karen Farrell (Mike); and grandchildren, Ryan Farrell (Melissa), Kelly Balentine (Josh), and Sarah Farrell, along with numerous cousins. 

A Funeral Mass is scheduled in Blanca’s honor at 10 a.m. Friday, March 15, 2019 at St. Michael Catholic Church in Fernandina Beach, Fla. Inurnment will follow at Bosque Bello Cemetery in Fernandina Beach.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org or 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

An online guestbook is available at www.aycocktradition.com.

Sandra Lee Feldman, 68, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away March 2, 2019. Her memorial will be in July.

Patricia Helper, 44, of Albany, Ga., passed away February 24, 2019.

Hall and Hall Funeral Directors

Carolyn Rose Miles, 94, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Friday, March 1, 2019.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Harold Eugene Warrick, 84, passed away March 5, 2019. Arrangements are incomplete.

Green Pine Funeral Home, Cremations & Cemetery

James Lawrence “Larry” Keller, 69, passed away Wednesday, February 13, 2019 at Malcom Randall VA Medical Center in Gainesville, Fla.

He was born November 1, 1949 in Orlando, Fla. Larry grew up in Fernandina Beach, Fla. surrounded by cousins and friends in the close-knit community of Old Town. Larry loved fishing and exploring the waters of the Amelia River and Egans Creek as well as sailing on the Atlantic Ocean.

He married Leigh Keller on June 18, 1983 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Fernandina Beach.

Larry enlisted in the United States Navy in 1967 and served his country proudly. Larry was employed by Florida Public Utilities in Fernandina Beach for 14 years. Then, Larry and Leigh chose to realize their dream of living aboard. They purchased their sailboat Now Voyager and spent 12 wonderful years as citizens of the boating community.

Larry loved sailing and cooking – a combination that earned him the nickname “Sailor Chef.” He was also a gifted woodworking craftsman and accomplished carpenter, leaving a remaining legacy of remarkable projects – both large and small – he had completed over the years. Larry loved music, and was inspired, uplifted, and healed by listening to his favorite artists – both family members and friends, as well as internationally recognized performers. Not one day went by that Larry didn’t have music playing for hours.

In addition to his parents and stepparents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, William Allen “Billy” Keller and Raymond Harold Lucas, and a sister, Denise Dimkoff.

He is survived by his wife, Leigh Keller of Gainesville; his daughter, Jennifer Keiser (Jody) of Yulee, Fla.; sisters, Nancy Thompson (Truman) and Linda Robbins; and brothers, Ricky Lucas (Faye), Kevin “Jack” Keller, Todd Keller, and David Bissett, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

Larry was cremated, according to his wishes. A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held 5-7 p.m. June 18, 2019 at the Florida House Inn in Fernandina Beach.

Thomas Mayhew Raymond died peacefully March 4, 2019 with family at his side at Baptist Medical Center Nassau in Fernandina Beach, Fla.

Tom was born April 29, 1946 in West Point, N.Y. to the late Col. Charles Walker Raymond II and Anita Cervi Raymond. He was a descendent from a long line of West Pointers. As an Army dependent, Tom lived in many states and in Managua, Nicaragua. Tom attended and graduated from Cambridge High School in the village of Cambridge, N.Y., which he always considered his hometown.

After a year at community college, Tom served for four years in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Bon Homme Richard (CV-31) aircraft carrier. After his military service, he received his undergraduate degree from Arizona State University. Tom later received his MA degree in industrial technology from San Jose State at San Jose, Calif. He embarked on a career in high-tech, working first in Phoenix, Ariz. for Motorola, and then in Silicon Valley for AMD in the semiconductor industry. In 2002, he transferred to Hillsboro, Ore., near Portland, to finish out his career with Lattice Semiconductor.

Tom married Sara Rebecca Gerhold in 1996 in Los Gatos, Calif. He had a special affection for Rebecca's children from a previous marriage and loved them as his own. Tom eagerly looked forward to becoming a grandfather and relished that role in his life. After retirement, Tom and Rebecca moved in 2012 to Fernandina Beach, a place they had been visiting for years and had come to love. Upon settling here, Tom, a history buff, immediately became involved with the Amelia Island Museum of History. He has given presentations over the years at the 3rd on 3rd Street lectures and the Brown Bag Lunches. On Mondays, he led a docent tour of the Eight Flags story. Tom discovered that the city of Fernandina Beach had the wrong Spanish flag on their seal and needed to be corrected. After presenting his case at a City Commission meeting, the correction was made.

Tom also had a passion for writing, in particular, history, and has had articles published in the News-Leader, Amelia Now Magazine, St. Marys Magazine, and his hometown paper (Cambridge Eagle) of Cambridge. In addition to these publications, he wrote biographies of various ancestors providing the books to his extended family.

Another passion of Tom's was his love of the New York teams (Giants, Rangers, Knicks), especially the New York Yankees. Tom mentioned recently that he would have loved to have seen the Yankees win one more World Series.

Tom spent many of his younger years backpacking in the Sierras, Hawaii, and the Northwest, loving that connection with nature. He and Rebecca enjoyed traveling and visiting beautiful places around the country and the world. Tom was quite a photographer and was able to capture some remarkable photos.

Tom had an inquiring mind and interest in all kinds of topics. With a special sense of humor, he could be relied upon to add levity to any conversation.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his stepmother, Marcia Clark Raymond; and his brother, Robert Woodruff Raymond.

He is survived by his wife, Rebecca; stepchildren, Mary Elizabeth Williams (Peter) of San Jose, Calif. and Christopher James Gerhold (Julie) of Florence, Ky.; step-grandchildren, Natalie and Paul Williams and Jaelyn and Emma Gerhold; brothers, Charles Walker Raymond III of Mechanicville, N.Y. and Jonathan Wainwright Raymond of Cambridge; nephews, Charles Walker Raymond IV (Robin) and Peter Timothy Raymond (Tracy); a great-nephew; great-nieces, and many beloved cousins and friends.

Tom was a faithful member of Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Fernandina Beach, where a Requiem Mass, celebrated by the Rev. Brad Cunningham, will be held to honor his memory at 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 13, 2019. A reception will follow in Scott-King Parish Hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Tom's memory may be made to the Amelia Island Museum of History, 233 S. Third St., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Blanca Acosta Tatum, 83, of Port St. Lucie, Fla., passed away February 27, 2019.

Blanca was born in Manhattan, N.Y. to the late Victor Acosta and Estela Acosta (Rabainne). She relocated to Lake Worth, Fla. before residing in California from 1970 to 2000. From 2000 to 2016, Blanca was a resident of Amelia Island, Fla. In 2016, she settled on The Treasure Coast, which she called home until her passing. Blanca was a graduate of Katherine Gibbs College and spent many years working as an executive secretary. She was active as a Jaycee wife, along with her volunteer efforts with El Camino Hospital in California and Tradition Medical Center in Port St. Lucie. In her spare time, Blanca enjoyed playing Bingo and travelling. Blanca and her husband, John, went on 37 cruises. Blanca was a loving mother to her daughter, Karen, and a doting grandmother. Blanca cherished the time she spent with her family and friends and adored her daughter and grandchildren.

Blanca is survived by her husband, John  Tatum; daughter, Karen Farrell (Mike); and grandchildren, Ryan Farrell (Melissa), Kelly Balentine (Josh), and Sarah Farrell, along with numerous cousins. 

A vigil is scheduled in Blanca’s honor at 11 a.m. Friday, March 15, 2019 at Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors in Fernandina Beach, Fla. Inurnment will follow at Bosque Bello Cemetery in Fernandina Beach.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org or 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

An online guestbook is available at www.aycocktradition.com.

Valerie J. Priest, 59, passed away Saturday night, March 2, 2019, in Chattanooga, Tenn. surrounded by friends and family when her body finally conceded a long fight with cancer.

Valerie was the daughter of Robert and Joanne Jenkins and born and raised in Ocala, Fla. She married Joe Franklin Priest Jr. in 1991 on the Rainbow River in Dunnellon, Fla. Valerie will always be mommy, madre, cherished wife, best friend, “Coach Val,” Valski, entrepreneur, free spirit, parrothead, sailor, and so much more.

Though this is an incredibly sad time for those whose lives were touched by her, she wouldn’t want anyone to dwell in their sorrow. Instead, let’s all remember the happiest times we had with her and celebrate her immensely full life.

Valerie is survived by her mom, Joanne; husband, Frank; sister, Cindy Davis; brothers, Ken Jenkins and Keith Jenkins; and her three children, Corinne Priest, Emma Priest, and Camp Priest.

In lieu of a memorial service, please drop by and share your memories of Valerie with her family and friends on Friday, March 8, 2019, between 1 and 3 p.m. on the Rainbow River at the home of Joe F. Priest in Dunnellon, Fla. Bring your favorite photo of Valerie to add to a memory board for the family. For anyone who cannot drop by the River on Friday, please share your favorite Valerie photo or memory with Corinne Priest via text, email, or Facebook.

In lieu of flowers, please support and contribute to your local women’s shelter, food bank, or children’s hospital.

Please sign Valerie’s online guestbook at www.robertsfunerals.com.

Roberts of Ocala Downtown Chapel

Mrs. Sara “Pamp” McKendree, 89, passed away Monday, March 11, 2019 at Community Hospice & Palliative Care’s Warner Center for Caring in Fernandina Beach, Fla.

Born in Waycross, Ga., she was a daughter of the late Homer C. and Grace Johnson Ponsell. She graduated from Wacona High School in Waycross and lived there until the late-1940s. While visiting Fernandina, she met a local boy who became her husband, Eddie McKendree.

Married November 26, 1950, she and Eddie made their first home in Fernandina Beach. She was a homemaker for much of her life but spent 10 years helping her husband in the Nassau County Property Appraiser’s Office. As a homemaker, Mrs. McKendree enjoyed sewing, making clothes for her daughter and making baby clothes. She will be remembered for always being involved in helping give bridal and baby showers for many of Fernandina Beach’s young ladies.

She was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Fernandina Beach and a regular at the Marina Restaurant and T-Ray’s.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband of 51 years, Edwin N. “Eddie” McKendree, in 2001.

She leaves behind her daughter, Thea Laine McKendree of Fernandina Beach; her son, Barry McKendree and his wife, Danielle, also of Fernandina Beach; five grandchildren, Meredith Lane, Trey McKendree Haddock, Jaclyn McDaniel, Shane McKendree, and Tara Ford; 16 great-grandchildren; and several close nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Mrs. McKendree will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 14, 2019 at First Presbyterian Church with Dr. Wain Wesberry officiating. The family will receive friends 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, March 13, 2019 at Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors. She will be laid to rest beside her husband in Bosque Bello Cemetery.

The family asks donations be made in her memory to the Nassau County Council on Aging, 1901 Island Walkway, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Kevin Micah Little, 56, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Thursday, March 7, 2019 at his residence.

He was born May 9, 1962 in Fernandina Beach to the late James K. Little Sr. and Violet V. Russell. Kevin lived his entire life in Fernandina Beach, graduating from Fernandina Beach High School, Class of 1980. After graduation, he attended ABAC and would continue his education at FCCJ, where he obtained an Associate’s Degree in Business.

Kevin was employed as dock master at the Fernandina Harbor Marina for 32 years, a job he truly loved.

In 1990, he met the love of his life, Blanche Ross, and they were married in 1991 on a boat with a view of Tiger Point and Fort Clinch.

He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying boating, fishing, hiking, and off-roading with his sons. He also loved to watch NASCAR, Expedition Unknown, and Destination Truth and listen to music.

He leaves behind his wife of 28 years, Blanche Little of Fernandina Beach; sons, Harrison and Hunter Little; a brother, James K. Little Jr.; a niece, Samantha Little; and a nephew, Cory Little.

Funeral services will be at 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 13, 2019 from the graveside in Bosque Bello Cemetery.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers you please consider a donation in Kevin’s memory to the Okefenokee State Park at Okeswamp.com, the Nassau Humane Society in Fernandina Beach, or any nonprofit effort to preserve and protect wildlife and their natural environments.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Carolyn McKnight Miles passed away Friday, March 1, 2019 at her Amelia Island home, where she and her late husband, Dr. James S. Miles, had lived for the past 16 years. She passed peacefully in her sleep, at the age of 94, after a life filled to the brim with passion, love, and following her dream of world travel.

She was born April 30, 1924 to Louise and David Vacarezza in Manhattan.

She worked at Stanford University bookstore as a book buyer in Palo Alto, Calif. for many years. She and her late husband shared a mutual love of traveling and experiencing other cultures. Carolyn was one of the first Americans to travel to China after the country was reopened to the West in the mid-1980s. She loved antiques, history, architecture, and animals. Particularly loved was her corgi, Phoebe.

She was predeceased by her husband, James Miles, in 2012 and her son, David Joseph Mahoney, in 1989.

She leaves behind her daughters, Carol Delaney of Bedford Hills, N.Y. and Kristin and John Allen of Los Gatos, Calif.; and five grandchildren, Danielle Delaney-Meehan, Suzanne McCarthy, Shelagh Thomas, Kimberly Johnson, and Thomas Delaney, as well as nine great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 16, 2019 in the Burgess Chapel of Oxley-Heard Funeral Home, 1305 Atlantic Ave., Fernandina Beach, Fla.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Martin K. ''Marty'' Sanderson, 59, of Flowery Branch, Ga., passed away February 17, 2019.

Marty was born January 6, 1960 in St. Lukes Hospital in Jacksonville, Fla. He grew up in Fernandina Beach and attended Fernandina Beach High school. Later, he moved to Atlanta, where he met his wife, Debbie. He loved his family, especially his grandchildren and his dogs. He was an avid reader and loved music and his many friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Deborah Glass Sanderson, and his father, Earl Sanderson, of Waycross, Ga.

He is survived by his children, Stephen (Jesseeka) Sanderson and Kayla Sanderson, both of Flowery Branch, Travis Martin of Oakwood, Ga., Kevin Noonan of Gainesville, Ga., and Kenneth Noonan of Roswell, Ga.; and nine grandchildren. He is also survived by his mother, Shirley Sanderson Setzer; a brother, Steve Sanderson; and sisters, Sherry and Rhonda Sanderson, all of Fernandina Beach, Fla. He also had several nieces and nephews that he loved.

He will be greatly missed.