Melba J. Sayler, 96, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Wednesday, July 31, 2019 at Community Hospice & Palliative Care’s Warner Center for Caring in Fernandina Beach, Fla.

She was born in Brunswick, Ga. to the late Samuel and Pearl Allen Jones and moved to Fernandina Beach when she was a young child.

A longtime member of First Baptist Church, Mrs. Sayler was baptized there May 22, 1938. As a child, she was a member of the Sunbeams and always remembered her Sunday school class beginning each Sunday session with the singing of “On Sunday, I Am Happy.” She often recalled her many happy memories of growing up at First Baptist. Later as an adult in the church, she would teach those “Sunbeams,” work with the GAs and the Youth Group, teach Sunday school, visit the sick and shut-in, and serve wherever she could.

In January of 1941, she married Samuel W. “Sammy” Sayler Jr. Their marriage would continue until his passing in 2014. As a young wife, she worked for Bell Telephone as an operator. She recalled with great detail working on Pearl Harbor Day and how the day unfolded as the sad news filtered into Fernandina. As a homemaker, she raised her daughter, Beth, and was there to help as a “Homeroom Mother” and the Girl Scouts.

Mrs. Sayler’s rich life spanned nearly a century and allowed her to witness many wonderful things and many huge changes in her community and society at large.

In addition to her parents and her husband, she was predeceased by her sister, Margie Harrell.

She leaves behind her daughter, Beth Park of Fernandina Beach; four grandchildren, Ray (Jennifer) Park of Fernandina Beach, Ann (Jamie) McKinnon of Yulee, Fla., Jimmy (Debbie) Park of Douglas, Ga., and Tommy Park of Eagle, Idaho; and eight great-grandchildren, Jamie Lynne (Todd) Dill, Chris (Chastity) Park, Hunter McKinnon, Mason Park, Ashley Park, Josh Park, Allie Park, and Kaleb Park, as well as five great-great-grandchildren, Kinsley Park, Gabriel Bell, Bella Park, Christopher Thomas Park, and Xander Park. Mrs. Sayler also leaves behind many friends and extended family members.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Monday, August 5, 2019 in the Burgess Chapel of Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors with Rev. Shad Goltz of First Baptist Church officiating. The family received friends from 10 a.m. until the hour of the service. Todd Dill, Chris Park, Hunter McKinnon, Mason Park, Josh Park, and Kaleb Park served as pallbearers. She was laid to rest beside her husband in Bosque Bello Cemetery.

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

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Marian “Claire” Robinson Salmond, beloved wife of the late William A. “Bill” Salmond, passed away Wednesday, July 31, 2019 at the age of 93, only a month short of her August 29th birthday.

Born in 1925 to Marian and John Q. Robinson in Montclair, N.J., she grew up excelling academically and musically to become a gifted pianist. She began her education at the select College High School, an educational experiment of Montclair State College. This is where she met the love of her life before entering Vassar College, where she earned her B.A. in philosophy and mathematics. Their love for each other was undeterred by the war. Upon Bill’s return, they tied the knot and eloped on October 25, 1947, even before receiving her college degree. Together, they first settled in Upper Montclair, began raising their three girls, and gave back to their community by leading in both the Montclair Junior League and the Community Chest.

They relocated to Bethesda, Md. when Bill began his service with the Veterans Administration. Claire spent years working for the Montgomery County Public Schools as an elementary school teacher and an expert in early childhood curriculum development. A lifelong learner herself, Claire continued her education and received her master’s degree from the University of Maryland and a Ph.D. in early childhood education from George Washington University.

After successful careers, they both retired to the next chapter of their lives on Amelia Island. They continued to share their busy lives and many talents contributing to their new community until Bill passed away January 23, 2015. Claire was a member of her investment club and for a short time presided as president. As longtime members of the Amelia Plantation Chapel, Claire was proud of Bill’s role in the addition and renovation of the Chapel. She was also a member of the Altar Guild and shared her gift with words as the “ace” writer of encouraging messages to friends in need, which accompanied the beautiful flower re-arrangements designed by The Petal Pushers and delivered by none other than The Pedal Pushers. 

She leaves behind her three daughters, Elise Elliston and her husband, Robert, of Martha’s Vineyard Island, Mass., Cynthia “Cindy” Hogeman and her life partner, Al Moses, of Hummelstown, Pa., and Margaret “Jackie” Landry and her husband, Bob, of Leominster, Mass.; her brother, Jack Robinson and his life partner, Addie Vogel, of Cranford, N.J.; eight grandchildren, Dagny Elliston of Salem, Mass., Heather Elliston of Falmouth, Mass., and William “Casey” Elliston of Martha’s Vineyard Island, Mass., Kim Hogeman and her partner, Bruce Keith, of Columbia, Pa., Allison Carr and her husband, Ryan, of Plain City, Ohio, Megan Baker and her husband, Logan, of Harrisburg, Pa., Taylor Landry of Leominster, and Jackson Landry of Leominster; four great-grandchildren, Weston, Maddox, and Josephine Carr of Plain City and Oliver Baker of Harrisburg; and her two loving Coton de Tuléar dogs, Lili and Nana.

Services will be at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at the Amelia Island Plantation Chapel with Reverend Don Edwards officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Kenya Partners Mission School (HIV/AIDS orphans), c/o Mrs. Diane Hamerick, 95132 Amalfi Drive, Unit 1C, Amelia Island, FL 32034. Contributions may also be made online at kenyapartners.com.

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

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Martin E. Key Jr., 71, of Yulee, Fla., passed away Wednesday afternoon, July 24, 2019 at Community Hospice & Palliative Care’s Warner Center for Caring in Fernandina Beach, Fla.

He was born December 28, 1947 in Fernandina Beach to the late Edward and Daisey Glenda Rowell Key Sr.

A Vietnam veteran (sergeant) and Purple Heart recipient, Martin was the former educational director for the Boys & Girls Club of Nassau County, an eighth grade math teacher, and dean of students at Yulee Middle School. He helped a lot of students to be their best and thrive in their adult lives. He knew his students all by name and nothing made him happier than seeing them grow. He was loved by his community and will be terribly missed.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Ronald Key and Bernard Key.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra L. Key; son, Carey Copeland (Maggie Waterhouse) of Yulee; daughters, Julie Spires of Frostproof, Fla. and Amanda Little of Jacksonville, Fla.; a brother, Gerald Key (Eva Key) of St. Augustine, Fla.; and four grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at 9 a.m. Friday, August 16, 2019 at Jacksonville National Cemetery.

Eternity Funeral Homes & Cremations – Nassau

Katharine Quay Dimlich, 82, of Glade Springs in Daniels, W.Va. and Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Thursday, August 1, 2019.

Born January 28, 1937 in Cleveland, Ohio, she was the daughter of the late A. G. C. Quay and Dorothy Harrington Quay.

Mrs. Dimlich was a homemaker and of the Presbyterian faith. Her greatest joy in life was being a wife, mother, and grandmother. She had made her home in Glade Springs for the past 17 years and enjoyed reading, cooking, and being in nature.

Mrs. Dimlich attended Wells College in Aurora, N.Y. and graduated from Case-Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Suzanne Kelley and Dorothy Kennedy.

Those survivors left to cherish her memory include her husband of 60 years, S. Henry Dimlich, M.D.; sons, Stephen H. Dimlich Jr. and wife Kris of The Woodlands, Texas and Andrew Dimlich and wife Suzanne of Beckley, W.Va.; a daughter, Debin McGee and husband Marty of Concord, N.C.; a sister, Sandra Wilch of Hartland, Wisc.; and four grandchildren, Dorothy and Eleanor McGee and Conor and Alyana Dimlich.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Katharine Dimlich will be held at 4 p.m. Monday, August 12, 2019 at Glade Community Church in Glade Springs. Pastor Troy Rackliffe will officiate. A reception will follow in The Rotunda at Glade Springs.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Beckley Area Foundation or to any favorite charity.

Private online condolences and other expressions of sympathy may be directed to the family online at www.roseandquesenberry.net. 

Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home

Debra Zeluff, 60, of Yulee, Fla., passed away Wednesday, July 31, 2019 at Community Hospice in Jacksonville, Fla.

She was born October 1, 1958 in Jacksonville to Ronald and Maxine (née Fipps) Lee.

On July 1, 1976, she married the love of her life, Robert Zeluff. She was a devoted stay-at-home mother until her children graduated and then was self-employed for many years as a small business owner of in-home housekeeping services.

She was preceded in death by her father, Ronald, and husband, Robert, who passed away August 30, 2018.

She is survived by her children, Tashell (Christopher) Weaver of Orange Park, Fla. and Alicia Zeluff (Stephanie Guedj) of Washington, D.C.; her mother, Maxine; and her sisters, Bonita (David) Dickson of St. Johns, Fla. and Ronda (Randy) Ivey of Middleburg, Fla.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, August 10, 2019 at the Zeluff family home at 86002 Martin Lane in Yulee with Drew Wesseman officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Community Hospice & Palliative Care at 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257 or online at communityhospice.com/give.

Don B. Porter, 60, of Ray City, Ga., passed away Wednesday, August 7, 2019.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Linda J. Nunez, 75, of Yulee, Fla., passed away Thursday, August 1, 2019 at Quality Health after a brief battle with cancer.

She was born in Lawrenceburg, Tenn. to Charles Wilson Pilkington and Velma Lurine Burdett. Mrs. Nunez lived in Yulee for the past 13 years and was a homemaker.

In her spare time, she enjoyed reading, making jewelry for her friends, sewing, and crocheting. She also loved going on cruises, traveling with friends and church groups, and spending time with her “Twisted Sisters!”

She was an active member of Blackrock Baptist Church, where she enjoyed singing to the congregation.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Nunez, and son, Charles Mitchell Sturges.

She leaves behind her daughter, Terri Sturges Merritt and her husband, Gregory, of Brunswick, Ga.; grandchildren, Taylor Lee Woodruff and his wife, Jennifer, of Yulee, Cady Money and her husband, Spencer, of Yulee, Kiley Sturges of Yulee, and Sarah Merritt of Brunswick; and sisters-in-law, Claudine Newton and Nelda Austin, both of Fernandina Beach, Fla.

The family is planning a service to celebrate her life that will be announced later.

If you would like to send a condolence, please do so by donating to Community Hospice & Palliative Care’s Warner Center for Caring in Fernandina Beach, Fla. at 1348 S. 18th St., Fernandina Beach, FL  32034.

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

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Hazel Belle (Brumley) Evans passed away Sunday, August 4, 2019.

She was born on February 4, 1923 in Iberia, Mo., where she grew up on a farm with no electricity or plumbing. The fourth of seven sisters, she combined with two of her sisters to win the high school state basketball championship.

After attending Missouri University on a scholarship, she moved to Washington, D.C. in 1942 to work at the newly opened Pentagon. After Hazel left Missouri, the entire family moved to the town of Ceres in central California, enabling farming in a more dependable climate.

In D.C., Hazel met and married William R. (Bill) Evans, whose mother (Annie Baer) was a Fernandina Beach, Fla. native and member of the 1901 St. Peter’s Church choir. In 1945, Hazel left the Pentagon to raise the first of two sons at their house in the Anacostia area of D.C. With boys in tow, Hazel and Bill drove cross country to visit her California family four times, touching all 48 contiguous states, plus Mexico and Canada. She was active in supporting her children through leadership positions in the PTA, St. Mark’s Church (D.C.), and the Boy Scouts. Her house was always a magnet for the neighborhood children with frequent homemade cookies and her eagerness to create a game or contest keeping the whole group entertained.

By 1963. her boys needed slightly less supervision and Hazel returned to work at the U.S. Treasury Building (seen on the back of the $10 bill). She retired from the Treasury in 1985, taking up and developing considerable proficiency in tennis and in golf. In golf, she won multiple club championships, recorded her first hole-in-one at the age of 81, and continued playing into her early 90s.

In 2009, her husband passed and Hazel relocated to an apartment in Alexandria, Va. She moved again in 2014 to Osprey Village in Fernandina Beach to be close to her sons in Amelia Island and Summerville, S.C.

Her daughter-in-law accurately summarized her life: “There was no one that didn’t like Hazel.”

Private services will be held at a later date.

Eternity Funeral Homes & Cremations – Nassau

Frances S. Barfield (Gardner), 81, from Macon, Ga., Donalsonville, Ga., and Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away July 31, 2019 surrounded by her loved ones in Fernandina Beach.

She was born in Brinson, Ga. the daughter of the late Remus Gardner and Debbie Gardner (Barber).

She was predeceased by her husband, Jack Barfield, and son, Marvin L Barfield of Macon.

Her surviving children are David Barfield (Ron Foskey) of Donalsonville and Jackie Barnes Rushton of Fernandina Beach. Grandchildren include Kyle Barfield and Kali Barfield Warner of Robins, Ga., Korey S. Barnes, Dallas M. Barnes (Jessica) and Walker A. Rushton, all of Fernandina Beach. In addition, she is survived by beloved nieces Debra Elliott, Sue Ellen Smith, Linda Jones, and Ginger Gardner and nephew Neal Gardner, as well as several great- and great-great-nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life was held Saturday, August 10, 2019 in Donalsonville.

We love and will miss you dearly. Rest in peace, Momma.

To sign Frances’ online register book and leave condolences, please visit the Green Pine website at www.greenpinefuneral.com.

Green Pine Funeral Home, Cremations & Cemetery

Hazel Evans, 96, passed away peacefully August 4, 2019.

Eternity Funeral Homes & Cremations – Nassau

George Hayes, 59, passed away peacefully July 18, 2019.

Eternity Funeral Homes & Cremations – Nassau

Mr. John Andrew Heck, 84, of Fernandina Beach, Fla. passed away Tuesday, August 13, 2019.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Martin Key, 71, passed away peacefully July 25, 2019.

Eternity Funeral Homes & Cremations – Nassau

Donald Noble, 77, passed away peacefully August 6, 2019.

Eternity Funeral Homes & Cremations – Nassau

Chattie Mae Williams, 78, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Monday, August 12, 2019.

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Mr. Thomas B. Zvoch, 80, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Friday, August 2, 2019 at Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville with his family at his side.

Born in Pittsburgh, Pa., he was a son of the late Andrew and Mary Kundrat Zvoch.

Shortly after high school, he joined the U.S. Air Force and served honorably. While in the Air Force, he studied and was a graduate of several aircraft jet engine mechanic courses. After his time in the Air Force, he worked for Grumman Aviation in St. Augustine, Fla. for several years.

His working career eventually took him to Anheuser-Busch in Jacksonville, Fla. There, he was instrumental in the opening of the Metal Container Division. He worked in several other locations around the country successfully setting up similar operations. Eventually he found himself working in corporate headquarters in St. Louis, Mo. before he retired. Even after retirement, Tom was never one to sit still. Moving to Fernandina Beach in the early 1990s, he owned and operated Quality Bedding on South 14th Street for several years.

Also in the early 1990s, he made the acquaintance of his future wife, Margaret. After dating several years, they were married. Their marriage would last for the next 25 years. From spending time on the beach to their many travels, including twice-a-year cruises travelling all over the world, he and Margaret loved each other deeply and enjoyed their time together. His love of music was legendary. As part of his morning routine, he would turn on his favorite tunes and listen all day. That love of music was a big part of his love of dancing. Whether as part of a local dance club or lovingly dancing with Margaret in the kitchen, he always enjoyed being able to dance.

He was a longtime parishioner at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, where he and his wife served in many capacities. They could often be found as ushers or greeters at weekly or special services.

In addition to his parents Mr. Zvoch was predeceased by two sisters, Alice Stafford and Rosemary Bodmar, and a brother, Richard Zvoch.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Margaret Baker Zvoch; his son, Michael Zvoch and wife Shannon of Gainesville, Fla.; daughters, Sharon Johnson of Jacksonville and Michelle Morrow of Fernandina Beach; a brother, Raymond Zvoch of New Mexico; and four grandchildren, Lauren Zvoch, Delaney Zvoch, Kyle Johnson and wife Hannah, and Kristin Johnson, as well as several other extended family members.

A service to celebrate and remember Tom’s life will be held at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church beginning at 11 a.m. Monday, August 26, 2019 with the Reverend Stephen Mazingo, rector, officiating.

He will be laid to rest at St. Peter’s Cemetery with military honors at a later date.

The family requests that memorials be made in his name to Purple Dove Resale Center, c/o Micah’s Place, P.O. Box 16287, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034.

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

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Densie Darcel Younger, 68, suddenly and unexpectedly passed away at her home in Fernandina Beach, Fla. on May 25, 2019.

A “Service of Remembrance and Honor for Densie Darcel Younger” will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday, August 24, 2019 at New Vision Congregational Church, 96072 Chester Road, Yulee. For more information, call (904) 225-0538.

Densie was preceded in death by her adored mother, Frances Louise Kennedy Younger.

Densie is survived by her beloved spouse of 31 years, Vicky Olson of Fernandina Beach; her brother, Raymadier Younger (Michele) of Coal City, Ill.; her sister, Cheryl Carter (Randy) of Charlotte, N.C.; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews; and father, Elmo Ray Younger of Morris, Ill.

Densie was born and raised in Morris, Ill. and excelled in sports, leading to her earning a Bachelor of Science in Education from Illinois State University. Densie was a teacher and coach of high school education and sports in Illinois for several years. Densie furthered her education to earn a Master of Computer Systems and Information Management, recertified to teach in South Carolina, and later was close to acquiring her Master of Business Administration (MBA).

After moving to South Carolina, Densie became a firefighter in North Charleston and then became the first woman crane operator at the Charleston Naval Shipyard. Later, she transferred to Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in Georgia. After several years as a crane operator, Densie took the administrative promotional path again and retired as the command evaluator at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay. At her retirement ceremony, Densie was awarded the Meritorious Civilian Service Award, one of the highest civilian awards earned by civilian employees in recognition and appreciation of meritorious service resulting in “high value” of service and benefit to the Navy.

Throughout her life, Densie never stopped doing the things she loved, which were continuing to teach children and young adults about sports wherever she was – Illinois, Charleston, S.C., Kingsland, Ga., and Fernandina Beach, coaching, refereeing, and volunteering for Special Olympics and Parks & Recreation. One of her favorite charities for the past few years was volunteering for the Joy to the Children, Inc. during the Christmas holiday in Nassau County, Fla.

Densie absolutely loved life! One could often find her cheering on her favorite sports teams, biking, practicing yoga, fitness training, and working in her beautiful yard. Densie loved and adored her friends, reading, listening to a variety of music, and playing online games with friends around the world. She was a wonderful cook.

Densie will be forever missed and loved by all who had the opportunity to know such a beautiful soul with her warm and infectious smile.

The family asks that memorial contributions be made to the charity of one’s choice in her name. Otherwise, throughout Densie’s life, she had continuously donated to our veterans services organizations.

Melanie Cobb Parsons, 61, of Macon, Ga., went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on August 10, 2019 after a brief battle with cancer.

Melanie formerly lived in Athens, Ga., Brunswick, Ga., Brewton, Ala., Amelia Island, Fla., and Williamsburg, Va.

Melanie was born in Athens on August 31, 1957 to Marjorie and Leonard Cobb. She graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in banking and finance. Throughout her career, she worked in various roles for the Federal Reserve Bank in Atlanta, Georgia Power, Brewton City Schools in Alabama, Alabama Department of Labor, Nassau County (Florida) School District, Florida Public Utilities, New Kent County (Virginia) Government, and most recently Wesley Glen Ministries in Macon as the admissions and business coordinator.

Melanie was married to Joe Parsons for 37 years. They have two daughters, Meredith Kublbock (Chris) of Ponte Vedra, Fla. and Courtney Parsons of Atlanta, Ga.

Melanie was an active member at Forest Hills United Methodist Church and served on the Hospitality Committee. She was an active member in churches everywhere she lived, working mostly in children’s ministry.

In addition to her husband and daughters, she is survived by sisters, Susan Branan (Bill) of Washington, Ga. and Len Ellerbee (Tom) of Athens; a nephew, Joseph Parsons of Atlanta; and nieces, Ashley Branan Sheffield (Brad), Lauren Ellerbee Goodman (Josh), and Morgan Ellerbee Stewart (Drew).

Melanie had tremendous gifts of communication and maintaining relationships. People were always comfortable discussing joys and problems with her. She was proud of marching in the Rose Bowl Parade with the Clarke Central Gladiators as a majorette in high school. Melanie loved people, spending time with family and friends, working in her church, and cheering for the Georgia Bulldogs. She also enjoyed gardening, water fitness, yoga, traveling, and vacations to the beach and the mountains.

A Celebration of Life for Melanie will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, August 14, 2019 at Forest Hills United Methodist Church in Macon. Rev. Baxter Hurley, Rev. Teresa Edwards, and Rev. John Irwin will officiate. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Forest Hills United Methodist Church, Wesley Glen Ministries, or a charity of your choice.

Visit www.maconmp.com to express condolences.

Macon Memorial Park Funeral Home

Jim Hill McClung Sr., 82, passed away August 8, 2019 at his residence on Amelia Island, Fla.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Sara Josephine McClung, in 2012.

He leaves behind his son, Jim Hill McClung Jr. and his wife, Patricia Ann, of Clayton, Ga.; his daughter, Karen McClung Feuerborn and her husband, Christopher Patrick Wharton, of Marietta, Okla.; his grandchildren, Jim III, Sara Kate, Patrick, Emily, and Matt McClung and Thomas Charles, Christopher Patrick, and Kathleen Marie Feuerborn.

Mr. McClung lived for many years in Atlanta, where he was with Lithonia Lighting for 37 years and served as its chief executive officer for 24 years. He was a graduate of Emory University, the Harvard Business School and served as a captain in the U.S. Air Force.

He was a member of the Board of Directors of Young Presidents Organization, the World Presidents Organization, and Who’s Who in America.

Mr. McClung was very active in the electrical industry. He served as chairman of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, was a board member of the National Service Industries, and was a former member of the Electrical Manufacturers Club and the Illuminating Engineering Society. 

He was a member of St. John United Methodist Church and the Cherokee Town and Country Club of Atlanta. After retirement, he lived on Amelia Island and belonged to the Amelia Island Plantation Chapel and the Amelia Island Club.

Services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, August 13, 2019 at the Amelia Island Plantation Chapel. A family service will be held at a later time for the committal of his remains.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his memory to the Salvation Army.

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

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Alice Jane Holmes passed away peacefully August 12, 2019 after an extended illness at The Retreat at Osprey Village at the age of 94.

Alice Jane Stevenson was born in Mill Hall, Pa. on December 30, 1924 to Harry F. and Ida May Stevenson. She was predeceased in death by her husband, Robert R. Holmes, and her four siblings.

Jane married her high school sweetheart during World War II. They reared their children in Lock Haven, Pa. and Vero Beach, Fla. Because of her love of church, children, and music, she was music director for the youth choir and leading soprano in the Chancel choir. After moving to Fernandina Beach in 2007, Jane and Bob became members of the First Presbyterian Church.

Jane was an avid (8 handicap) golfer, artist, and active member of garden clubs wherever she lived. She won many blue ribbons for her artistic arrangements.

Because of her attention to detail, she became a very successful real estate agent later in life.

She loved her grandchildren and would get at their level to entertain them with fun and games – and maybe a few pranks.

She is survived by her son, Ron (Ann) Holmes; daughter, Sandi (Michael) Irvine; grandsons, Ryan (Amanda) Holmes and Rhett (Chris) Holmes; and eight great-grandchildren, Abbie, Anna, Caroline, Jordan, Victoria, Allie, Catherine, and Kyle.

The family would like to thank the staff at The Retreat at Osprey Village and Hospice for their concern and care for the past 10 years.

A service to remember Jane will be held at a later date at the First Presbyterian Church Columbarium, where she will be interred with her husband.

Memorial contributions may be made to Northeast Florida Community Hospice at 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257-2425 or the Alzheimer’s Association at 437 Salisbury Road, No. 406, Jacksonville, FL 32216.

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

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

Charles L. Christian, M.D., a beloved mentor and revered icon in academic medicine, died Sunday morning, August 11, 2019 in Fernandina Beach, Fla. surrounded by his family. An insightful and caring clinician, a dedicated and influential teacher of physicians throughout the world, a groundbreaking scientist, and a consummate gentleman, it is unlikely that academic medicine will see another like him.

Dr. Christian was born and grew up in Wichita, Kan. After a tour in the Navy, he attended Case Western Reserve School of Medicine, graduating in 1953. He came to New York for training in internal medicine at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, where he developed his interest in the rheumatic diseases under the tutelage of Dr. Charles Ragan, a founder of the Arthritis Foundation. At Columbia, he initiated a scientific career marked by significant insights into the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. In one of his first publications, a single-author study published in Journal of Experimental Medicine in 1958, he described aggregated gamma globulin as the serum target of rheumatoid factor. He went on to characterize immune complexes, anti-DNA antibodies, and the essential contribution of complement to the immune system alterations in patients with SLE. With Paul Phillips, Dr. Christian introduced the possibility that viruses might play a contributing role in connective tissue diseases, a concept that continues to be of great interest. With David Gocke, John Sergent, Michael Lockshin, and others, he led the discovery that hepatitis B (then called “Australia antigen”) can drive polyarteritis nodosa, the first example of a chronic rheumatic disease caused by a virus, and with Robert Inman and others, he characterized the microbial and host components of immune complexes in patients with infective endocarditis.

Dr. Christian’s impact in clinical medicine and as a leader in academic medicine was equally significant. In 1971, with Dorothy Estes, he published the definitive description of the natural history of SLE, a classic paper read by most medical students. Extending and applying the observations of Holman and Kunkel that lupus sera bound DNA and nuclear components, Dr. Christian perfected the Farr assay with Graham Hughes and Selwyn Cohen and demonstrated the association of anti-DNA antibodies with disease activity in SLE. His work established what remains the most informative biomarker for management of lupus patients. With Robert Kimberly, Michael Lockshin, Robert Inman and others, he introduced high-dose pulse methylprednisolone therapy for patients with lupus nephritis.

In early 1970, Dr. Christian was recruited to Hospital for Special Surgery, along with colleagues Stefano Bombardieri, Cohen, Hughes, Lawrence Kagen, Robert Lightfoot, Lockshin, and Phillips, where he served as physician-in-chief and director of Rheumatic Diseases, as well as chief of the Division of Rheumatology at Weill Cornell Medical College from 1970 to 1995. In addition to his role in clinical medicine, he held the position of associate director of the Department of Research. Dr. Christian was called on twice to serve as acting physician-in-chief at The New York Hospital and as acting chairman of the Department of Medicine at Cornell University Medical College. At HSS, Dr. Christian developed the Combined Arthritis Program, a unique clinical and teaching collaboration among rheumatologists, orthopedic surgeons, and social workers, providing comprehensive management of the most complex patients with arthritis. Under Dr. Christian’s leadership, HSS received its first Multipurpose Arthritis Center grant in 1978 from the National Institutes of Health and 10 years later in 1988 received its second grant. After retirement from his academic position at HSS and Cornell in 1995, Dr. Christian continued to care for patients with rheumatic disease as a professor of medicine at the University of Florida College of Medicine in Jacksonville, Fla.

Dr. Christian served as editor-in-chief, Arthritis & Rheumatism, 1971-75, president of the American College of Rheumatology in 1976-77, and received the Presidential Gold Medal of that organization in 1996 in recognition of outstanding achievements in rheumatology over an entire career. He was an emeritus member of the American Society for Clinical Investigation.

Dr. Christian was known for his remarkable memory, particularly when it came to his patients, as well as his elegance, kindness, and grace. He was, first and foremost, a doctor. The words that he expressed in describing his mentor, Charlie Ragan, equally apply to Charles Christian: “His life confirmed the thesis that the skills of a great teacher and physician are inextricably bound with human qualities.”

Dr. Christian was preceded in death by Diane Collings Christian, his wife of 47 years. He is survived by Molly Rinehart, his partner, constant companion, and soulmate of 15 years; and his children, Victoria, Jennifer, and Matthew; grandchildren, Maximilian, Daphne, Luke, and Maria; great-grandchildren, Wilder, Bowie, and Arlo; and so many patients and physicians whose lives he enriched.

A memorial is planned for the fall of 2019 in Fernandina Beach. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/31DRTgW.

Joseph "Glenn" Camp, 51, passed away unexpectedly Friday, July 12, 2019.

Glenn was born November 20, 1967 in Fernandina Beach, Fla. and was a lifelong resident of the area.

He was an auto mechanic and a jack-of-all-trades. He loved working with his hands, riding his motorcycle, camping, and fishing. He loved adventures of any kind. Glenn was known for his kindness, easy-going spirit and love for life. He was a great people person and will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.

Glen was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon Camp; his father, Lester "Gene" Camp; and a brother, Emmett E. Camp.

He is survived by his only child, Joey E. Camp; his partner, Nelda Neaves; his mother, Gloria Thomas (Harry); a brother, James Thomas (Katherine); his many sisters, Gloria Godwin (Roger), Darlene Downey (Keith), Tina Probst (Gilley), and Chrissy Thomas (Krystle); and many nieces, nephews and beloved friends.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 17, 2019 in the Stephens Chapel at Green Pine Funeral Home in Yulee, Fla. Everyone is invited to attend.

To sign Glenn's online register book and leave condolences, please visit the Green Pine website at www.greenpinefuneral.com.

Green Pine Funeral Home, Cremations & Cemetery

Shelton Lloyd Baker, 68, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away peacefully Tuesday, August 13, 2019 surrounded by his family at Baptist Medical Center Downtown in Jacksonville, Fla. A celebration of his life will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, August 16, 2019 at Community Baptist Church, 85326 Winona Bayview Road, Yulee, Fla., with pastor Rev. Carl Lindsay officiating.

Eternity Funeral Homes & Cremations – Nassau

Wanda Lou Murry, 77, of Jacksonville, Fla., passed away peacefully Monday, August 12, 2019 in the care of Community Hospice & Palliative Care’s Warner Center for Caring in Fernandina Beach, Fla.

Eternity Funeral Homes & Cremations – Nassau

Ms. Chattie Mae Williams, 78, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., passed away Tuesday, August 13, 2019 at Curahealth in Jacksonville, Fla.

Born in Wadmalaw, S.C., she was a daughter of the late Aaron and Wilhelmenia Austin Williams and had lived in Fernandina Beach since she was 12 years old.

She began work at an early age and had a long working career. She retired from Amelia Island Plantation, where she was stewarding supervisor after nearly 30 years service.

A kind and loving lady, she was always willing to help when she could. Whether it was lending a helping hand to somebody at work or with a neighbor, she was able to help anybody she knew about.

She was a loving mother and grandmother. In her spare time, she loved to watch old westerns on television and especially loved Gunsmoke.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a son, Anthony, when he was a child, and her brothers and sisters, James, Blue, Buster, Bernice, and Evelena.

She leaves behind her son, Emanuel (Ida Bell) Williams of Fernandina Beach; her daughter, Glennette (Dwayne) Callahan of Jacksonville; her brother, Charles (Claudette) Williams of Tampa, Fla.; 10 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren, as well as host of nieces, nephews, and other extended family members.

Ms. Williams’ family will receive friends 5-7 p.m. Saturday, August 17, 2019 at Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors. Funeral services for Ms. Williams will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, August 18, 2019 at the First Assembly of God with Rev. Arizona Perkins officiating. She will be laid to rest at Bosque Bello Cemetery.

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

Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors

A Memorial Service for Izel Harvey Jenkins will be at 6 p.m. Friday, August 23, 2019 in Burns Hall at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 801 Atlantic Ave., Fernandina Beach, Fla. Visitation will be 4:30-6 p.m. the same day in the Parish Hall.

He is survived by a brother, William (Marjory) Richo; a sister, Flora Jenkins Guy; aunts, Gloria Williams, Elsie Green, and Margaret Williams; and other relatives and friends.

Visit jefralin.com to leave your condolences.

J. E. Fralin & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services