Randy Lamar Luke 1968-2012

A funeral service for Randy Lamar Luke, 44, of Auburn, was held at 12 p.m. on Dec. 5, at Nazareth Missionary Baptist Church. Rev. S. Dewayne Drakeford officiated.

Luke passed on Nov. 30, at his home. He was a member of Fellowship Faith Christian Center. In 1988, he graduated from Beauregard High School and later from Southern Union Community College.

His remains laid in state at the church one hour prior to the service.

Survivors include his wife, B. Luke, Auburn; two children, Cody Lamar Waller, Opelika and Brandy Luke, Auburn; his parents, Charles and Carrie Luke, Salem; two sisters, Patricia Davis, Oklahoma City, Okla. and Deloise Nunn, Salem; one brother, Ezzard Luke, N. Charleston, S.C.;  his mother and father-in-law, Rev. Elzie and Mr. Tommie Elzie, Tuskegee;  three brothers-in-law and four sisters-in-law; a special uncle and aunt, Eddie and Annie Ogletree, Salem; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Peterson and Williams Funeral Home directed.

Norma Taylor Triplett 1939-2012

A funeral service for Norma Taylor Triplett, 73, of Opelika was held at 2:30 p.m. on Dec. 5, at Emmanuel Episcopal Church. Burial followed in Garden Hills Cemetery. The Reverend Dr. Wells Warren officiated.

Triplett was born on Feb. 4, 1939, in Anniston. She passed away on Dec. 3, at Bethany House. She was a member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Opelika, member of the Martha Wayles Jefferson Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution and was Regent from 2003-2006; a member of the Daughters of the American Colonists, and also of Colonial Dames XVII.

Triplett was preceded in death by her husband, Jesse William Triplett; and son, William Taylor Triplett.

She is survived by her daughter, Bethany Triplett Collins; several aunts; uncles and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, gifts should be made to your favorite charity.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed.

Fred Adams 1947-2012

A funeral service for Fred Adams, 65, of Auburn, was held at 2 p.m. on Dec. 5, at Loachapoka United Methodist Church.

Reverend Fred Woodall officiated. Burial was held in Loachapoka Memorial Garden Cemetery. Visitation was Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.

Adams passed away at his home on Dec. 2. He was a lifelong resident of Lee County. He was active in the Rodeo Community and owner of 3A Bucking Bulls. Fred will be remembered as a loving son and father.

He is survived by two daughters, Tiffany Adams of Auburn, Elizabeth Adams of Marianna, Fla..; mother, Virginia Adams of Auburn; and sister, Judy Worrell of Wake Forest, N.C.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed.

Inez R.M. Jensen

1918-2012

Inez R.M. Jensen, age 93, formerly of Edgeley, N.D., passed away on Nov. 21, in Auburn, where she resided the past three years.

Inez Ruth Marie Fevold was born on Dec. 3, 1918, on a farm outside Edgeley in LaMoure County, N.D., the second child and only daughter of Martin and Bertha (Olson) Fevold. She was raised on the family farm outside Edgeley, residing on the same site her entire life until moving to Auburn in 2009.

Inez attended a country school in Wano Township until high school. Her high school years were spent at Edgeley High School from which she graduated in 1937. She and her family attended the Willow Grove Church where at the age of 10 Inez began playing piano in the church. She grew to serve in numerous capacities. Inez attended business college in Fargo and went on to work at the A.S.C.S. and County Agent’s offices, as well as the Farmer’s Home Administration at LaMoure and Lisbon.

Inez married Clarence Harley Jensen, son of Hans and Clara (Oleson) Jensen, on June 3, 1951 at Willow Grove Church. They lived on the family farm and successfully farmed until retiring in 1987. They were active church members at Willow Grove and then at the United Methodist Church in Edgeley where they were very committed to and involved in the music ministry of the church for many years. In 1998, Inez was honored for 70 years of playing the piano and organ. Inez and her husband were married 60 years before he passed away in 2011.

Jensen was a member of Homemakers Club, the Civic and Study Club and United Methodist Women. She enjoyed reading, playing cards with friends, gardening, homemaking, traveling the United States with her family and most of all being a dedicated Christian wife and mother. She thoroughly enjoyed engaging her grandchildren and could often be found sitting on the floor with them playing their chosen games and activities. Trips to Yellowstone, the Black Hills and Medora were especially enjoyable to her. She greatly appreciated the beauty and wonder of God’s creation.

Jensen is remembered as a kind, caring, loving, patient, devoted, faithful, trustworthy and diligent daughter, wife, mother, and grandmother. She watched over her household well and blessed her family richly. Her family is comforted and in turn, blessed richly by the many cherished memories being in her lovely presence.

Jensen was preceded in death by her parents, brother and husband and is survived by her sons Ronald (Cherry) Jensen, Sheridan, Ark., and Marlin (Amy) Jensen, Auburn; and grandchildren, Nicki and Abbey Jensen, Conway, Ark.; and Jordan, Michael and Claragrace Jensen, Auburn; a sister-in-law, Charlotte Bruner, Jamestown; two brothers-in-law, Don Jensen, Edgeley and Doyne (Betty) Jensen, Frederick, S.D.

A funeral service was held at 10 a.m. on Nov. 26, at Wesley United Methodist Church in Edgeley, N.D with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial was in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Edgeley, N.D.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Music Ministry of the Wesley United Methodist Church, 305 5th Ave. West, Edgeley, ND 58433.

Williams-Lisko Funeral Chapel was in charge of arrangements.

Carlton Manley -2012

Carlton Manley died on Dec. 1, at Bethany House in Auburn. Manley was retired from Ampex for over 30 years, he was also owner- operator of Trotters Imaging and also an avid golfer and camper.

Manley was a member of the Church of the Harvest. He is preceded in death by his parents Mary and Carlos Manley. He is survived by his wife, Judy Manley; son Patrick J. Manley (Jana); grandchildren: Kaitlyn and Caleb; brothers: Mike (Elaine) Manley, Gary (Mary Carol) Manley, and Kenny (Nell) Manley.

A graveside service was held at 2 p.m. on Dec. 3, in Garden Hills Cemetery, with Pastor Clint Capps and Pastor William Ruddell officiating. Visitation was one hour before the service from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed.

Tellie Janice “TJ” Sanders 1944-2012

Tellie Janice “TJ” Sanders, age 67 of Opelika was born on Oct. 9, 1944, and passed away at her home in Opelika on Nov. 29. She was a member of Chewacla Baptist Church. She was the owner of TJ’s Appliance Service for 28 years.

Sanders was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Gladys Young; sisters, Betty Rean (Jim) Holliday, and JoAnn (Howard) Dawson; her brothers, Howard Lee (Bobbie) Young and baby Young. Mrs. Sanders is survived by her husband of 52 years, Billy Sanders Sr.; her sons, Billy (Rhonda) Sanders, Jessie P. (Melinda) Sanders, Jimmy (Cindy) Sanders, Curtis (Cheryl) Sanders, Joe Sanders, Chris (Veda) Sanders, and David Sanders; 19 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; a sister, Saundra Young; brothers, Bobby (Minnie) Young and Johnny (Dottie) Young. The family would like to give special thanks to the Hospice nurses and the staff of Bethany House for all their professional care and services. Funeral services were held on Dec. 2, at 2:30 p.m. at Frederick-Dean Funeral Chapel, with Rev. Max Cummings, Rev Harold Cummings and Rev. Hank Demous officiating. Interment followed in Garden Hills Cemetery. Visitation was held on Dec. 1, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice, Relay For Life, or the Winn-Dixie Hope Lodge in Atlanta. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.

Lorene Grissett Sanders 1927-2012

A beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Lorene Grissett Sanders, 85, passed away on Sept. 3, at Bethany House. She was born in Pike County and moved to Opelika when she was 16 years old.

Sanders was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Sanders, who was a lifelong Opelika resident.

Sanders is survived by three children, Ann (Don) Cipperly of Opelika, Rodney (Debbie) Sanders of Birmingham and Meri (Ronnie) Payne of Opelika; nine grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and one sister, Lorese (Jon) Williams of Pensacola, Fla.

Sanders was a sweet Christian lady who lived her life as an excellent example to her family of loving and caring for others.

Funeral services will be held today, Sept. 7, at 3 p.m. with visitation at 2 p.m. in the chapel at Frederick’s Funeral Home with the Rev. Earl Ballard officiating.

Interment will follow at Garden Hills Cemetery. Frederick’s Funeral Home is directing.

Julian Wayne “Mac” McDaniel

1936-2012

Julian Wayne “Mac” McDaniel, age 75, of Salem, was born to the late Jesse and Irene McDaniel on Oct. 11, 1936, in Tallapoosa County. He passed away on Sept. 4, at Bethany House in Auburn. He was a member of Liberty Baptist Church.

McDaniel was preceded in death by two brothers. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Eunice D. McDaniel; his daughters, Diana (Donny) Marshall and Janice (Charles) Price; his brother, Maurice McDaniel; his sister, Jean (Glenn) Laminack; eight grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren.

McDaniel retired from the USAF after 20 years of service. He then retired from Auburn University after 19 and a half years. His favorite hobbies were fishing and Auburn University football.

A funeral service was held on Sept. 6, at 2:30 p.m. in the Chapel at Fredericks Funeral Home, with Rev. Henry Dawson officiating. Interment followed in Garden Hills Cemetery.

Visitation was held on Sept. 5, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Fredericks Funeral Home.

Fredericks Funeral Home directed.

Fannie Mae Moore

1922-2012

A funeral service for Fannie Mae Moore, 90, of Loachapoka, was held at 1 p.m. on Sept. 1, at Pleasant View Missionary Baptist Church with interment in Pine Level Cemetery. Rev. Willie Davis officiated.

Moore passed on Aug. 25, at EAMC. She was a member of Pleasant View Missionary Baptist Church where she served on the Usher Board, the Missionary Society and the Faithful Club.

Prior to the service on Saturday, the family received friends at the church from 11 a.m. until the funeral hour.

Survivors include four sons, James (Carolyn) Moore and John Eddie Moore both of Auburn, Melvin Moore, Syracuse, N.Y. and Donald Moore, Atlanta; four daughters, Ernestine Smith, Mary Cole and Olivia Vandenpool all of Syracuse, N.Y. and Diane (Carnell) Mason, Montgomery; two brothers, Claude (Sandra) Theney, Atlanta and Jessie (Carrie) Combs, Loachapoka; two sisters, Dorothy (Al) Hood, Atlanta and Barbara (James) Howard, Auburn; 17 grandchildren, 37 great grandchildren and 22 great-great grandchildren; an adopted son, John Lee Rowell, Loachapoka; two special brothers-in-law, Willie Hill, Cincinnati, Ohio and Harrison (Naomi) Hill, Detroit, Mich.; a host of other relatives and friends.

Peterson and Williams Funeral Home directed.

Dora Mae Collier

-2012

A funeral service for Dora Mae Collier of Opelika, was held at 1 p.m. on Sept. 1, at Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church with interment in the church cemetery.  Pastor Robert King officiated.

Collier passed on Aug. 25, at her home. She was a member of Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church.

Her remains laid in state at the church one hour prior to the service.

Survivors include devoted nieces and caregivers, Lorene Kennedy, Opelika and Corrine Busby, Salem; lots of nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, great-great nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.

Peterson and Williams Funeral Home directed.

Everett H. Kirkwood 1946-2012

Memorial services for Everett H. Kirkwood, 65, were held Friday, Aug. 31, at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Eufaula.

Dr. Ken Bush officiated with Chapman Funeral Home of Eufaula directing. Kirkwood died on Aug. 28, at Columbus Regional Medical Center in Columbus.

He was born Oct. 31, 1946, in Opelika. He was the son of Kenneth S. Kirkwood of Roamer’s Roost, Gold Hill and the late Alice Susan Pozorski Kirkwood.

Kirkwood was a retired Master Sergeant of the United States Air Force, having served during the Vietnam war. He retired from Wallace Community College after 27 years of service. He was a member of VFW Post 5850, the ALAGA Antique Car Club and the First Baptist Church of Eufala. His hobbies were antique cars and restoring motorcycles. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter Emilee Buch.

Survivors other than his father are his wife, Debbie Crabtree Kirkwood of Eufaula; three daughters, Donna (Marlin) McKinney of Titus, Tanya (John) Thur of Marietta, Melanie Wise of Auburn; three grandchildren, Halee McKinney, Ellis Thur, Owen Thur; great grandchild, Trey Chastain; sister, Nancy Ann Kirkwood of Jackson Hole, Wyo.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to P.A.L.S. of Barbour County or to the Barbour County Humane Society.

Published in The Eufaula Tribune from Aug. 31 to Sept. 7, 2012.

Alma Black Hayes

1953-2012

Funeral services for Alma Black Hayes, 59, of Valley, were held at 3 p.m. on Aug. 26, at Jeffcoat-Trant Chapel. Dr. Rusty Sowell officiated. Burial was in Garden Hills Cemetery. Visitation was at 2 p.m. on Sunday one hour prior to the service at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.

Hayes was born on Jan. 15, 1953, in Montgomery. She passed away on Aug. 4, at Bethany House in Auburn. She had lived most of her life in Hurtsboro and Opelika. She was a member of Providence Baptist Church and worked for Fun Carts of Opelika. Alma was a fun loving compassionate person who was a friend to all. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt. Her strong faith had carried her throughout life and her special love for family.

Hayes was preceded in death by her parents, George and Annette Black; and her son, Michael Worrell Black.

Survivors include her husband, Horace Roland Hayes of Valley; three sons, Martin Ray Hayes of Prattville, William Guy Hayes of Columbus, Martin Daniel Hayes of Cordova, Tenn.; two sisters, Jean (Fred) Woodall of Opelika, Debbie (David) Hightower of Opelika; grandchildren; great grandchildren; nieces, one nephew and one great niece.

The family would like to thank her doctors, the Cancer Center and the Bethany House for their compassion shown to her and through these past months.

Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be directed to Bethany House 1171 Gatewood Drive Building 100 Auburn, AL 36830.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed.

Mildred Washington

Forrest 1934-2012

A funeral service for Mildred Washington Forrest, 78, formerly of Salem was held in Oakland, Calif.

Forrest passed on Aug. 14, in Oakland, Calif. She was a 1952 graduate of J. W. Darden High School. In 1953, she moved to Oakland, Calif., and enrolled at Merritt College and received a degree in Education, retiring in 2003. Until her health declined, she was an active member of Beebe Memorial Church.

Preceding her in death were: her husband, George W. Forrest; her parents, John and Mary Lilly Washington; and brothers, John, Jessie, Lamar and Lorenzo.

Survivors inculde  her children, Eric and Debbie; grandchildren, Adonis, Eric and Kristian; her siblings, Alma Chatmon of Albany, Ga., Plennie Langford of Detroit, Mich. and Homer Washington of Salem; a special Aunt, Jean (Sims) Bruce; a special cousin, Beulah Forman; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends

Peterson and Williams Funeral Home directed.

William Crawford

McClendon, III

“Bill Mac”

1946-2012

William Crawford McClendon, III, was born on March 16, 1946, in Opelika and passed away on Aug. 22. He was 66 years old and a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church of Opelika.

“Bill Mac” was preceded in death by his parents, Ouida Cook McClendon and William Crawford McClendon, Jr.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Patrice Barber McClendon; two daughters, Vera McClendon Lee and her husband Chris, and Virginia McClendon Crawford and her husband Mike; sister, Ouida McClendon Stough and her husband Butch; grandchildren, William Matthew Crawford, David Ryan Crawford, Thomas Conrad Crawford, and Mary Duncan Lee; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and many close friends.

A memorial service was held on Aug. 25, at 2 p.m. at First United Methodist Church of Opelika. Reverend Randy Woodham officiated.

Visitation was held following the service in the sanctuary.

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend who loved the outdoors.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church Honduras Ministry or to the First United Methodist Church Music Ministry.

The family greatly appreciates the compassion and loving care given by Dr. Edie Graves and Dr. David McKenzie and their staffs.

Fredericks Funeral Home is directed.

Fred Golden, Jr.

1920-2012

Fred Golden, Jr., 92, of Opelika passed away on Aug. 4, at Bethany House in Auburn.

Golden was born on April 22, 1920, in Waverly. He spent most of his life in Beauregard, he enjoyed buying, raising, and selling many different species of birds.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Miriam “Jonnie” Calhoun Golden, second wife, Clarine Betts Golden and his brothers, Raymond and James.

Survivors include his daughter, Dorothy Tyson; son, Ernest Golden; stepson, Phillip (Lorrie Dee) Dukes; two stepdaughters, Freda D. (Richard) Dudley, Bonnie Berry; son, David Michael (Kim) Golden; son, Bruce Frederick (Karen) Golden; daughter, Jan Golden (Cleve) Clark; brother, Frank Golden; 20 grandchildren; and 24 great grandchildren.

A private memorial service for Golden will be held at a later date.

The family would like to thank the staff at Bethany House, Dr. John Abrams and EAMC for their care and support during this difficult time.

The family respectfully requests, that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bethany House 1171 Gatewood Dr. Building 100 Auburn, AL  36830.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory was in charge of arrangements.

www.jeffcoattrant.com

Mildred “Milly”

Craft Wright

1961-2012

Mildred “Milly” Craft Wright, of Cusseta, went to be with her parents on Aug. 22. She was born on Nov. 1, 1961. She was 50 years old.

Wright was preceded in death by her parents, Tommy and Geneva Craft, Sr.; and her beloved pets, Ace and Freddie.

Wright was the beloved mother of two wonderful daughters, Patience Melius and Carrie Melius; beloved wife of Jeffrey F. “Yankee” Wright; sister to Tommy (Jane Anne) Craft, Jr., Deborah (Morris) Haywood, and Ricky (Vanessa) Craft; special friend of Kimberly Martin and Miss Faye; stepmother to Jason (Kristin) Wright and Tania (Kevin) Wright; grandmother of four, Tehya Wright, Maxx Schmidt, Alexis and C.J. Wright; beloved daughter-in-law of Eleanor M. Wright and the late Frank J. Wright; sister-in-law to Wendy (Fred) Sleider, William (Nancy) Wright, and Thomas (Amanda) Wright; also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews, as well as many friends; and two pets Suzy and Tava.

She loved gardening and working in her yard, and was known for her green thumb.

A funeral service was held on Aug. 26, at 2 p.m. in the Chapel at Fredericks Funeral Home. Brother Mark Malone officiated. Interment followed in Garden Hills.

Visitation was held on Aug. 25, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Fredericks Funeral Home.

Fredericks Funeral Home directed.

Frances Roberta

McAlister 1916-2012

A funeral service for Frances Roberta McAlister, 96, of Auburn was at 11 a.m. on Aug. 30, at Jeffcoat-Trant Chapel. Reverend Randy Woodham officiated. Burial was held in Auburn Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation was Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. The family also received friends on Thursday, one hour prior to the service.

McAlister was born May 22, 1916. She passed away on Aug. 27. The family owned a farm in South Alabama for several years, and moved to Auburn in 1957. She and her husband, Henry bought a boarding house on Toomer Street in Auburn, McAlister’s Boarding House. She was housemother for many boys during that time and it later became The Farm House Fraternity and she became their housemother. McAlister was a Matron in Eastern Star and member of Lake View Baptist Church in Auburn.

Frances’ greatest passion was her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She loved Auburn football and the Atlanta Braves. She could recount many stories of her 96 years of wonderful living. She enjoyed dancing, and playing at the beach for many years. She had lived at Monarch Estates for nine years, most recently Arbor Springs for five months.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Lee McAlister; father, Luke Yates; mother, Fannie O’Daniel Yates; sisters, Mary Thompson, Hilda Roberts, and Katie Mae Yates.

Survivors include her children, Reba (Bryon) Gulledge of Auburn, Connie (John) Carver of Opelika, Bill McAlister of Phoenix, Ariz., Betty (Jimmy) Broach of Auburn, Kay (Bob) Clark of White, Ga., Luke (Debi) McAlister of Auburn; 16 grandchildren, Barney (Connie) Gulledge, Glen (Stephanie) Gulledge, Regena (George) Spence, Scott Weaver, Cheri (Steve) Parish, Brian (Jennie) McAlister, Danny McAlister, Melinda (Randall) Curtis, Shelley (Paul) Sumner, Freddy (Angela) Broach, Stephany Lindsey, Tom (Melanie) Clark, Julie (Bryan) Robertson, Ken (Jenny) Clark, Heather Weston, Chad (Brittany) Hope; 39 great grandchildren; and one great great grandchild.

Pallbearers are Glen Gulledge, Scott Weaver, Tom Clark, Ken Clark, Drew Weaver, Michael Gulledge, and Barney Gulledge.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed.

Donald Bruce “Blo Pop” Boykins 1956-2012

A funeral service for Donald Bruce “Blo Pop” Boykins, 56, of Columbus, Ga. (formally of Auburn), will be held at 11 am today, Aug. 31, at Peterson and Williams Chapel with interment in Westview Cemetery. Bishop Nolan Torbert will officiate. A family hour will be held this evening at 6 p.m.

Boykins passed on Aug. 23, at the Columbus Regional Medical Center. He attended Fourth Street Baptist Church. In 1974, he graduated from Auburn High School.

Survivors include: one sister, Bettye (Rev. Johnnie) Robinson, Detroit, Mich.; four brothers, William (Rachelle) Neloms and Ronald (Pamela) Boykins both of Detroit, Mich., Benny L. (Cassandra) Comer, Gary, Ind. and Robert (Betsy) Blackmon, Ithaca, Mich.; an uncle, Byron (Carolyn) Neloms, Auburn; an aunt, Mary Ruth Reese, Syracuse, N.Y.; special nieces, Wanda (Anthony) Lewis, Auburn, Evangelist Karen (Bryant) Rhodes, Montgomery and Sonya (Christopher) James, Grand Blanche, Mich.; devoted friends, Thaddeus Jackson, Auburn and Fannie Timite, Columbus; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Peterson and Williams Funeral Home directed.

Wayne Tyler 1962-2012

Wayne Tyler, 49, of Opelika, passed away on Aug. 12, 2012. He was born on Nov. 29, 1962, in Columbus, Ga., and had lived most of his life in Columbus and Dalton, Ga. Tyler had been a resident of Opelika for the past seven years. He worked with his beloved sister, J.P. Lemay, at Mike & Ed’s Barbeque of Auburn.

Tyler is survived by his wife, Dawn Souther Tyler of Opelika; daughter, Ms. Erin Bartley (Josh Marshall) of Dalton, Ga.; son, Bryan Bartley of Dalton, Ga.; brother, Bobby (Terri) Hatcher of Smith Station; two sisters, J.P. Lemay of Auburn, Sandra (Curt) McMenamy of Sebring, Fla.; stepfather, Robert Hatcher of Columbus; three grandchildren, Brynleigh Bartley, Kaleigh Vaughn, Stryker Marshall; special nieces and nephews, Mandy Reed, Chloe Lemay, Taylor Hatcher and Ryan Hatcher; several other nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins; special friends, Amy and Wesley Moore, and all the employees at Mike & Ed’s Barbeque. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse H. Tyler and Pearl Hatcher.

Visitation for Tyler was on Aug. 14, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in Opelika and on Aug. 15, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Julian Peeples Funeral Home in Dalton, Ga. at Pleasant Grove Chapel.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory of Opelika and Julian Peeples Funeral Home Pleasant Grove Chapel were in charge of arrangements.

James L. “Bubba” Parker 1930-2012

A funeral service for James L. “Bubba” Parker, 81, of Opelika, was held 11 a.m. on Aug. 10, at Jeffcoat-Trant Chapel. Dr. Rusty Sowell officiated. Burial was in Garden Hills Cemetery. Visitation was Thursday from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.

Parker was born Sept. 4, 1930, in Lee County. He passed away at his home on Aug. 7, 2012. He was a U.S. Army Veteran serving during the Korean Conflict. Parker was retired from Pepperell Mill, and was the owner/operator of Spring Villa Grocery Store for 18 years. He was a member of Providence Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents, L.C. and Fannie Mayberry Parker; brothers, Clayton and Donald Parker; and son-in-law, Jimmy Smith.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Shirley Roberts Parker of Opelika; daughter, Bonnie Smith of Opelika; three sons, Ray (Sherry) Parker of Opelika, Tony (Christina) Parker of Auburn, Chris Parker of Panama City, Fla..; brother, Johnny Parker of Salem; nine grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Providence Baptist Church Building Fund 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika, AL 36804.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed.

Henry Hammond Swatts 1926-2012

A funeral service for Henry Hammond Swatts, Jr., 85, of Opelika was Aug. 13, at 11 a.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Chapel. Reverend Steve King officiated. Visitation was from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m., one hour prior to the service at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.

Swatts was born on Nov. 22, 1926, in Lee County. He passed away on Aug. 11, at East Alabama Medical Center. He had lived most of his life in Auburn-Opelika. After retirement from Uniroyal, he moved to Lake Martin, and was a member of Sardis United Methodist Church. He was a mason, loved hunting, fishing and playing dominoes. For the past seven years he enjoyed residing at Azalea Place in Auburn. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry H. Swatts, Sr., and Mary Ethel Whatley Swatts Brawner; wife, Mary Ann Swatts; son, Hank Swatts; and brother, John Swatts.

Survivors include a son, David (Delana) Swatts of Opelika; daughter, Susan Swatts (Bill) Murphree of Opelika; six grandchildren, Carley Gunn Clark, Drew Gunn, Chloe and Camden Swatts, Billy and Michelle Murphree; and several nieces and nephews.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed.

Barbara Ann Varner Mixon 1932-2012

Barbara Ann Varner Mixon, 79, went to be with the Lord on Aug. 14, after an extended illness. She was born to Mazie Pierce and Alvin Varner on Dec. 9, 1932, and grew up in Chattanooga, Tenn.

She had a love for music, camping, and reading, but above all loved her family and friends. She was a teacher in the Butler County School System for many years prior to her retirement. A career highpoint was her being named the, IBM Alabama Teacher of the Year, in 1989. Coupled with this award was a Commemorative Proclamation by the Alabama State Legislature. She was an active member of dulcimer groups in Mobile and Loachapoka where she continued her lifelong interest in music. Cherishing her memory is her husband of 59 years, Bill; children Bill (Dianna) of Auburn, Wendy of Mobile, David (Karen) of Pike Road and Doug of Daphne, her grandchildren Ben (Janie) Mixon, William (Laura) Mixon, Jill, Brian and Kimberly Mixon and Whitney (Zach) Stillwell; great grandchildren, Jacob Mixon and Noah Stillwell, her sister Ruth (Jack) Simmons brother-in-law Charles Mixon and sister-in-law Frances (Bill), special daughters Melanie Stonestreet and Amy Toler, and nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be today in Auburn at Auburn United Methodist Church Founder’s Chapel. Service at 11 a.m. with visitation at 10 a.m. A graveside service will be held in Greenville at the Saint Paul United Methodist Church on Highway 10. Service at 3:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to the Lee County Humane Society or to the charity of your choice.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory is directing.

Larry George Cooper 1939-2012

Funeral services for Larry George Cooper, 72, of Auburn were at 1 p.m. on Aug. 14, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home Chapel with interment in Town Creek Cemetery in Auburn.

Cooper, who passed away on Aug. 11, at Arbor Springs Health and Rehab Center, was born Aug. 26, 1939, in Auburn. He graduated from Lee County High School, Auburn in the class of 1959. He was a retired grocery manager for Winn Dixie.

Public viewing was on Aug. 13, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Survivors include: wife Nadine Hale Cooper of Auburn, three children: Larry G. Cooper, Jr. (Brandy) of Auburn, Andrew D. Cooper (Patty) of Auburn, and Paige Cooper Hilley (Tracy) of Athens, Ga.; six grandchildren: Max Cooper of Auburn, Kacie Cooper of Wetumpka, Cason Cooper of Auburn, Jessica Cooper of Auburn, Jackson Hilley and Sabrina Belle Hilley of Athens, Ga.; two brothers: Claude Cooper (Willadean) of Opelika, and David Cooper (Cheryl) of Opelika; two sisters: Betty Cooper Etheridge of Sylacauga, and Jeanette Cooper Burdette of Opelika; and many very special and much loved nieces and nephews.

Cooper was preceded in death by his parents Claude P. and Georgia Belle Whitten Cooper, one brother: Charles Robert Cooper; and two sisters: Jane Cooper Hill, and Glenda Cooper Powers.

Cooper was a long-time member of the War Eagle Lions Club where he received the coveted Melvin Jones Fellow Award by Lions Club International Foundation for dedicated humanitarian service. He was a member of Knight Patrol International and enjoyed talking to and making friends with radio enthusiasts from all over the world. He was a true nature enthusiast, and enjoyed working in his yard, spending countless hour nurturing his flowers and plants. He was a long time member of Auburn First Baptist Church where he served on various committees through the years.

Donations may be made to the Alzheimers Foundation of America, 322 Eight Ave. 7th FL, New York, NY 10001. http://www.alzfnd.org

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed.

Ledell Hughley Jackson 1953-2012

A funeral service for Ledell Hughley Jackson, 59, of Opelika, was held at 1 p.m. on Aug. 14, at Green Chapel Missionary Baptist Church with interment in Evergreen Cemetery. Pastor Roland Austin officiated.

Jackson passed on Aug. 8, at the East Alabama Medical Center. She was a member of Green Chapel Missionary Baptist Church where she served on the Missionary Board and was the Parish Nurse. Ledell not only worked faithfully in the church, but she gave so much through her sorority, Theta Phi Chapter of Chi Eta Phi and The Esquerettes Social Club. In 1971, she graduated from Opelika High School and after completing college; she was employed with Lee County Hospital (now known as East Alabama Medical Center). For 38 years, she was an RN and most importantly a friend to many.

Preceding her in death was her husband, Fred D. Jackson Jr.; her parents, David and Leo Hughley; and brothers, Warren Hughley and Clarence Hughley.

Her remains laid in state at the church one hour prior to the service.

Survivors include two children, Orletta J. (Kenneth) Rush, Birmingham and Marcus D. Jackson, Opelika; two grandchildren, Jordan Darrell Rush, Birmingham and Jada Preston, Douglasville, Ga.; one brother, James (Gail) Hughley, Opelika; her mother-in-law, Johnnie Mae Jackson, Opelika; two aunts, Lenora Coles, Opelika and Channie Coles, Atlanta; three sisters-in-law, Lou Hughley, Columbus, Ga., Susie Hughley and Luvenia (Jack) Robinson both of Opelika; five brothers-in-law, Roy Lee (Mary) Jackson, Eddie (JoAnn) Jackson and Tommy Jackson all of Auburn, Michael Jackson, Opelika and Jerry Jackson, Alpharetta, Ga.; one sister-in-law, Pamela (Percy) Hill, Smiths;  a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Peterson and Williams Funeral Home directed.

Eloise J. Kendrick Ortiz 1928-2012

A private graveside service was held for Eloise Kendrick Ortiz, at the Kendricks Cemetery in Lee County. She was the daughter of the late Mr. Benjamin F. Kendrick and Mrs. Ceola Heard Kendrick.

Ortiz passed on Aug. 3, at her home. She was born Nov. 14, 1928, in Lee County. She was of the Baptist faith and was a graduate of Alabama A&M University in Normal. She did further study at New York University in New York City, N.Y. She was a former teacher in the Lee County school system, and was a retired adult investigator in the Los Angeles County Probation department in Los Angeles, Calif.

Survivors include a daughter, Andrea M. (David) Benton of Acworth, Ga.; three grandchildren, Adena Benton, Daud Benton, and Daylon Benton all of Atlanta; a sister, Etheldra K. Miller of Swainsboro, Ga.; a host of other relatives and friends.

Peterson and Williams Funeral Home directed.

Cynthia Lorraine Thomas Carter

953-2012

A funeral service for Cynthia Lorraine Thomas Carter, 59, of Valley, was held at 11 a.m. on Aug.15, at Gaines Chapel A.M.E. Church in Phenix City with interment in Mason Cemetery in Union Springs. Rev. Richard Carter Jr., Presiding Elder Joseph A. Hall and Rev. Johnny Rutledge officiated.

She passed on Aug. 10, at her home. Carter, the First Lady of Gaines Chapel AME Church of Phenix City, served faithfully as a member of Stewardess Board, Emma Issac Butler Missionary Society, Sunday School and Bible study class.

She was a graduate of Tuskegee Institute and Troy State University. Prior to her illness, she was employed with the Chambers County School System as an Early Childhood Educator.

A family hour was held on Aug. 14, at 6 p.m. at Peterson and Williams Funeral Home. Her remains laid in state at the church one hour prior to the service.

Carter was preceded in death by her parents, the late Henry O. and Sallie Mae Thomas, Sr.;  siblings Etta Carol Harris, Richard Austin Thomas, Rosalyn Denise Thomas and Mary Elizabeth Thomas Smith.

Survivors include her husband, Rev. Richard Carter, Jr. Valley; two daughters Crystal S. Carter, Huntsville; Cynae C. (Jabulani) Tarver, Austell, Ga.; one grandson, Caleb R. Sanders; her siblings, Henry O. (Valerie) Thomas, Jr., Union Springs; Louise (Johnnie) Scott, Los Angeles, Calif.; Julius (Dorothy) Thomas, Montgomery; and Edith T. Miles, Union Springs; four brothers-in-law Walter Harris, William (Carol) Carter, Dr. Charles Carter and Bruce(Diana) Carter; one sister-in-law, Wanda Carter (George) Huguley; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Peterson and Williams Funeral Home directed.

Malchester P. Reeves 1937-2012

Funeral service for Mr. Malchester P. Reeves, 75, of Auburn was held at 11 a.m. on Aug. 16, at Peterson and Williams Chapel with interment in Memorial Park Cemetery. Rev. Benjamin Torbert officiated.

Reeves passed on Aug. 8, at his home. Born and raised in Syracuse, N.Y., Reeves graduated from St. Lucy’s High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Syracuse University and an M.B.A. from Northeastern University in Boston, Mass.

Survivors include his wife of 43 years, Audrey Reeves, Auburn; four children, Paula (Anthony) Reeves-Koonce and Tracey (Benjamin) Reeves-Lumpkin both of Columbia, Md., Cynthia Reeves of Malden, Mass. and Mark Reeves (Netta), Cambridge, Mass.; four grandchildren, Cameron and Matthew Lumpkin, Bryant Koonce and Danielle Reeves; two sisters, Betty Jean Owens and Marcia Neal Thomas both of Raleigh, N.C.; a host of other relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Malchester P. Reeves New England Community Service, Inc., (NECS) Youth Scholarship Fund, 1197 Adams Street, Boston, MA 02124

Peterson and Williams Funeral Home directed.

Gladys Cook Black

1934-2012

Gladys Cook Black, 78, a resident of Auburn, passed away on Aug. 8, at East Alabama Medical Center.

Funeral services were held on Aug. 13, at 11 a.m. from White Street Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Jamal Oliver officiating. Interment followed in Westview Cemetery.

Black was a member of White Street Missionary Baptist Church, The Missionary Society and former church pianist. She retired from Auburn and Lee County school systems as a teacher.

Survivors include: first cousins, Jimmie (Etta) Nunn, Marietta, Ga., Clifford (Emma) Nunn, Minnie Slaughter both of Buffalo, N.Y. and Henderson (Dotsey) Slaughter, Southfield. Mich.; other relatives, Dorothy Slaughter, Stevie Slaughter, Lorenzo (Barbara) Terrell and Alfreda Cosby; care givers, Juanita Williams, Sarah Richardson-Henderson, Casonia Henderson, Shiauna Williams and Josephine Lynch; a host of relatives and friends.

James David

Strickland 1930-2012

James David Strickland, age 81, of Opelika, was born in Georgia on Sept. 2, 1930, and passed away at his home Aug. 3. He was of the Baptist faith. He was the son of Mr. James Alexander Strickland and Mrs. Lee Ella Odom Strickland. He served in the Air Force for 13 years and retired from West Point Pepperell.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Strickland; sons, Dallas, Hermon and Danny Strickland; daughters, Irene and Barbara Strickland, and Latrell Snipes; stepchildren, Gary Warren, Vanessa Nuffer and Eric Lawler; sisters, Irene Burton and Ann Allen; brother, Tommy Stickland; five grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.

A memorial service was held on Aug. 11, at 1 p.m. at Grace Baptist Church in Auburn. Rev. Henry Dawson officiated. Visitation was held prior to the service from 12:15 p.m. until the funeral hour.

Lois T. Watson

1926-2012

A funeral service for Lois T. Watson, 86, of LaGrange, Ga. was held on Aug. 15, at 1 p.m. at Faith Baptist Church in LaGrange. Reverend Brad Thompson officiated. Burial was held in Shadow Lawn Cemetery. Visitation was one hour prior to the service at Faith Baptist Church.

Visitation for friends and family was Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.

Watson was born March 3, 1926, in Troup County, Ga. She passed away on Aug. 12, at East Alabama Medical Center. She was a lifelong resident of LaGrange. She was owner of Alabama Novelty Store and was of Baptist Faith. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jake Watson; two sons, Toney Watson, Carey Watson; two step-sons; and a step-daughter.

Survivors include two sons, Ronnie (Karen) Harris of Opelika, Jack (Linda) Harris of Milledgeville, Ga.; daughter-in-law, Debbie Watson of Hogansville, Ga,; 18 grandchildren; and numerous great grandchildren.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed.

Frankie Brundage King 1937-2012

The family of the late Mrs. Frankie Brundage King received family and friends to share in “A Celebration of Life – Reflections” at 5:30 p.m. on Aug. 7, at White Street Missionary Baptist Church.

King, 75, of Auburn, passed on Sunday at her home. Graveside services were held at 12 p.m. on Aug. 8, at Memorial Park Cemetery. Pastor Jamal Oliver officiated.

She was a member of White Street Missionary Baptist Church where she served as Church Trustee, as a member of the Willing Workers, the Matron Society and the Usher Board. She served for 46 years with Alabama Council on Human Relations (Family Resources/Community Services Block Grant Coordinator). King was a strong advocate for children and testified before Congress during the 1980’s. She was affiliated with the National Head Start Staff Association, the Community Action Agency (CAA) Association, the North Auburn Housing Board, a former member of the City of Auburn Zoning Board and was the first black candidate to run for an Auburn City Council seat.

Her husband, Mr. Willie Lee King, preceded her in death.

Survivors include her seven children, James (Kathy) Richardson, Tuskegee, Willie (Marjorie) King, Acworth, Ga., Mark Anthony (Carol) King and Stanley King both of Atlanta, Timothy King, Auburn, Stephen (Joan) King, Washington, D.C. and Bettye (Lorenza) King-Dorsey, Auburn; 23 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren; one brother, Ronnie C. Brundage, Auburn; one sister, Patricia Jordan, Auburn; a devoted niece and caregiver, Odessa Berry, Auburn; a host of nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Flowers will be accepted or the family suggests memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Research.

George Echols

1942-2012

A funeral service for George Echols, 70, of Auburn will be held at 1 p.m. today, Aug. 10, at Auburn A.M.E. Zion Church with interment in Pine Level Cemetery. Pastor Stephen Faulk will officiate.

Echols passed on Aug. 2, 2012 at his home. He was a member of Mt. Pelia Baptist Church and Milton W. Howze Masonic Lodge #408. Echols retired from Spencer Lumber Company and South Trust Bank.

A family hour will be held today at 6 p.m.

His remains will lie in state at the church one hour prior to the service.

Survivors include his wife, Princella Echols, Auburn; five children, Annette (Johnnie) Cobb and Lenora (Calvin) Finley both of Auburn, Ernest Echols, Atlanta, Randy (Evette) Echols, Tuscaloosa and Helen (Lenard) Beaton, Opelika; 11 grandchildren and one great grandchild; five sisters, Carrie Webb, Camp Hill, Mozell Warren, Orlando, Fla., Lillian (Rev. James) Crabb and Dell Turk both of Loachapoka and Josephine (Lewis) Stinson, Albany, Ga.; two brothers, Arthur Lee (Ida Pearl) Echols, Auburn and James Echols of Champaign, Ill.; brothers-in-law, Arthur Stroud, Champaign, Ill. and Otis Dowdell, Auburn; sisters-in-law, Ethel Echols, Notasulga and Gladys Dumas, Auburn;  several nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Peterson and Williams Funeral Home directed.

Edward Zimnicki 1934-2012

Zimnicki, Edward, age 78, was a proud member of the Auburn community for over 33 years. He passed away peacefully on the evening of Aug. 2, at the Oak Park Nursing Home.

Ed was born in Subina, Poland, and as a young man apprenticed in Mannheim, Germany in the art of woodworking before reaching his goal of Master Craftsman. He immigrated to the United States with his mother and sister in 1951 to escape the escalating turmoil of WWII. Ed found employment in Chicago in 1954 at the Leonard Peterson Company and was quickly promoted to foreman at the young age of 18.

Years later, in 1979, he relocated as Vice President of Manufacturing with the Leonard Peterson Company to open a new manufacturing facility in Auburn, where he worked until his retirement in the year 2000. Ed also served as an auxiliary Police Officer for the town of Riverside while living in Illinois, and as a Deacon in his church for many years.

Those of us who knew him well will remember his love for Florida, especially Siesta Key, as well as traveling, boating, fishing, great food and most of all, his family and close friends. Ed was the beloved husband of Joyce Zimnicki for 33 years; loving father of Carolyn Kennedy, Steven and Bill May (and wife Turna); proud grandfather of Hannah, Daniel and Zachary Dunlap; dearest brother of Christine Dybowski; fond uncle to many nieces and nephews and a special friend and mentor to many.

A visitation will be held today, Aug. 10, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.

A Celebration of Life will take place the following afternoon, on Aug. 11 at 1:30 p.m. at the Auburn United Methodist Church with Dr. George Mathison officiating.

www.jeffcoattrant.com

Howard Francis Tucker 1920-2012

Funeral services for Howard Francis Tucker, age 92, of Auburn, were held on Aug. 9, at 11:30 a.m. at Auburn First Baptist Church. Burial was in Auburn Memorial Park Cemetery. The Reverend Dale Peterson is officiated. Visitation was immediately preceding the services on Thursday from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at Auburn First Baptist Church.

Originally from Logan, Cullman County, Dr. Tucker was an Auburn resident for 64 years, having moved to Auburn in 1948 with his wife, the late Inez Jones Tucker, to finish their education at Auburn University (then Alabama Polytechnic Institute).

Earlier, he had served in the Army Air Corps during and after World War II. Dr. Tucker devoted his life’s work to Auburn University. He received his B.S. and masters degrees at Auburn, then became the first candidate to complete Ph.D. work at Auburn and with, four others, was in the first class awarded Ph.D.’s at the university. He served the university as an assistant, then associate professor in the Auburn Animal Sciences Department, School of Agriculture, until his retirement in the early 1980’s.

He also practiced what he taught, operating a swine farm with his partner and fellow Ph.D. class member, Herman Alexander, for many years. Inez, his wife, was also well known to the Auburn family as the long time head dietitian and manager of the War Eagle Cafeteria in the Auburn University Union Building, where Dr. Tucker could usually be found with the whole family Sunday after church enjoying her Maryland Turkey.

Dr. Tucker is survived by daughter, Anita Tucker Smith, son James H. Tucker and wife, Karen, daughter Beverly Tucker Beitzel and husband, Vernon,daughter  Kaki Tucker Barto and husband, Doug, sister Mary Jo Tucker Kennedy and sisters-in-law Maxine Tucker (widow of Elwin, Dr. Tucker’s brother), Nell Jones Watts and Doris Jones (Inez’s sisters), and Jean Reaves (widow of brother-in-law Sam Jones, Inez’s brother). Dr. Tucker is also survived by his much-loved grandchildren, Rae Hunter, Leigh Hunter, Allen Hunter, Jr., Kimberly Hooper and husband, Brian, Jillian Tucker, Kristy Appleton and husband, Darin, and Ross Beitzel, and great-grandchildren, Tripp Hunter, Zach Hunter, and Langley Hooper. Dr. Tucker’s sister, Eulala Tucker Kaylor, and brother, Elwin Tucker, predeceased him.

The family suggests memorial contributions to a church or charity of choice rather than flowers.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory is directing.

Sara Anderson Hudson 1922-2012

Sara Hudson, 89, died peacefully on July 30, 2012, at the Bethany House in Auburn.

Sara (“Bibba”) was born on Aug. 13, 1922, at Schofield Barracks, Territory of Hawaii, where her father B. Conn Anderson was stationed. The family moved to Auburn in 1925, when Captain (later Colonel) Anderson was assigned to ROTC duty.

Sara recalled those times: “I remember walking barefoot on dirt roads, chasing a mule-drawn ice wagon for chunks of ice on hot summer days, and climbing Chinaberry trees.” Even then, Toomer’s Corner was a fixture in her childhood memories.

The Andersons left Auburn in 1930, and it was more than two decades before Sara returned as an instructor in the API (now Auburn University) English department. During this time, Sara had received a BA degree from the University of North Carolina, marrying poet Hayden Carruth on the day of their graduation from Chapel Hill. He went into the Army and to Italy. She moved to New York to live with the Carruth family and work for a Wall Street firm.

Feeling the need to do more for the war effort, Sara joined the WACS as a medical technician. She and her husband were honorably discharged at war’s end and went to Chicago to pursue graduate degrees under the GI Bill. Sara received an MA from the University of Chicago.

Sara returned to Auburn in 1952, with her infant, Martha, following a divorce, and soon was invited to join the English faculty. She was one of only a few women instructors at the time, forging a long career of “firsts” for Sara as a woman in traditionally male venues. She was not daunted then, nor ever in her life, by the strings of convention.

Sara took a leave of absence to complete her Ph.D. at the University of Chicago, and again returned to Auburn as an associate professor of English. In 1961, she married Fred Hudson in the Civil Engineering Department, her friend and life love until Fred’s death in April 2011. They had a daughter, Elizabeth.

Sara, or Dr. Hudson, enjoyed a reputation as a fiercely focused, brilliant, and demanding instructor who asked nothing less than excellence from her students. Although many students recalled her has the “toughest” professor they ever had, many also have said that she was a significant influence in their approach to learning, and even to their eventual career paths. Sara retained close friendships for the rest of her life with several former students whom she taught and mentored.

Sara became increasingly interested in faculty governance and in securing more equitable treatment for faculty women.  She was elected president of the Faculty Senate in 1980, the second woman to serve in this capacity.  In keeping with character, she was fearless in her efforts to preserve the integrity and financial security of the Liberal Arts departments as the bedrock of education and research—often opposing the interests of powerful entities on the Board and executive committee. Throughout her life, Sara always stood up for what she considered to be just and right, and was deeply respected by her colleagues and friends for this tireless work.

Sara retired from teaching in 1985 and was awarded Professor Emerita status and the highest commendation for her service by the Alabama Senate. In 1986, she accepted the position of Acting Associate Dean of Liberal Arts. She never stopped teaching, researching, and learning. For many years she was both teacher and student with Auburn’s Life Long Learning program. In 1996, she co-authored a historical biography, “Belle of the Fifties.”

Sara will be remembered for her keen mind, curiosity, drive for perfection, and sparkling wit. She was a political tiger, and, as a Yellow Dog Democrat, adored debating with friends from all political persuasions. She was outgoing, loved hosting parties with Fred, attending countless art, music, and literary events, and, above all, loved her friends.

Finally, and importantly, Sara gave far more than she took. She was known in the community for her devotion to those in need, whether through poverty, infirmity, mental illness or old age. She provided physical nourishment and emotional support, and loved listening to the many voices and stories from her visits. She served on the board of the Presbyterian Ministries on behalf of the poor. She carried in her bones a powerful sense of duty, compassion, and social justice for all- and in particular, the least of us.

Sara embraced life through all of its happiness and heartaches. Her first daughter, Martha, died of cancer in 1997, a great time of sadness. But her grandchildren from daughters Martha and Elizabeth provided her with a joy which, per Sara, “has no words.” This well could describe the person of Sara Hudson. Words alone cannot sufficiently encompass this remarkable woman.

Sara is survived by daughter Elizabeth Hudson, brother B. Conn Anderson, grandchildren Britton Herbert, Hayden Ward, Robin Ward, Henry Goff and Alice Goff; and great-grandchildren Lily and Isabel Herbert.

A graveside service for Sara was held on Aug. 3 at Pinehill Cemetery, where she is buried with her parents and daughter Martha. In commemoration of Sara, donations will be gratefully accepted at the charity or foundation of choice.

Fredericks Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Lorene Miller Price 1930-2012

Lorene Miller Price, 82, of Auburn, formerly of Columbus, Ga., was born on Jan. 4, 1930, in Coffee County, and went to be with Jesus on Aug. 3, 2012 at East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika.

Price was a dedicated mother, grandmother, and was a faithful member of Opelika Church of God. Price co-founded Price’s Barbecue House of Auburn, in 1978 and continued to work there until her retirement. She was a wonderful cook and loved to travel and spend time with her family and friends.

Price was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jesse Price. She is survived by two sons, Jesse Wayne Price (Betty), Jeffery Dale Price (Bobbie) both of Auburn; three grandsons, David Wayne Price (Michelle) of Wichita, Kan., Jonathan Jesse Price of Atlanta, Michael Bryant Price of Auburn; two granddaughters, Abbie Price Pari (Naren) of Prattville, Emily Price McElroy (Caleb) of Auburn; two great grandsons, Dawson Price of Wichita, Kan., Jayan Pari of Prattville; sister, Kathleen Harrelson of Phenix City; and one brother-in-law, J.T. Price (Janie) of Elba.

A funeral service for Price was held at 2 p.m. on Aug. 6, at Jeffcoat-Trant Chapel. Reverend Charlie Bolt officiated. Burial followed in Garden Hills Cemetery. Visitation was Sunday, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed.

Martha B. Benson 1921-2012

Martha B. Benson, age 91, of Auburn, was born in Arkansas on July 1, 1921, and passed away on Aug. 5, at Arbor Springs in Opelika. She was a member of Auburn United Methodist Church.

Benson was preceded in death by her husband, Carl F. Benson; and daughter, Katherine Benson Morrison. She is survived by her son, Stephen L. Benson.

Benson was the 2004 recipient of the Alabama Library Association’s Humanitarian Award. During her life, she traveled extensively, including visits to Germany, Italy, Austria and Switzerland, and through her travels, education, and personal pursuits, she cultivated a vast knowledge and deep love of literature, while remaining devoted to her home and family. When Benson’s daughter died, she felt the best memorial to Katherine would be the creation of a trust that would benefit both the adult and youth collections at Auburn Public Library in perpetuity.

Graveside services were held on on Aug. 8, at 11 a.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery in Auburn. Dr. George Mathison officiated.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Auburn Public Library for the trust fund established by Mrs. Benson, 749 East Thach Avenue, Auburn, Alabama  36830.

Fredericks Funeral Home directed.