Joseph Donald “Joey” Coker
March 4, 2025
Joseph Donald “Joey” Coker, age 50, of Huxford, AL, passed away on February 25, 2025. He was born on February 19, 1975, in Pensacola, FL, and was a 1993 graduate of Escambia County High School. After high school, Joey attended Jefferson Davis Community College in Brewton, where he earned his associate’s degree. He also completed the Reid State truck driving classes to obtain his CDL license. Joey was known for his hardworking nature and deep commitment to his family and community and was a lifelong member of Huxford Baptist Church. Joey held various jobs throughout his life, including many years working on the family farm. At his death, he was employed by Alabama River Woodlands.
Joey’s dedication to his work and deep love for his family will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. His kind heart, unwavering work ethic, and devotion to those he cherished left an enduring impact. A true water enthusiast, Joey found his greatest joy skiing and boating, especially on the river or at Lake Martin, surrounded by friends and family. A natural comedian and prankster, he always had a hilarious story to tell, bringing endless laughter to those around him.
Joey was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He is survived by his parents, Joe and Brenda R. Coker; his wife, Karen Marshall Coker of Huxford, AL; his children; Marshall Coker, Jake Coker, and Sam Coker, all of Huxford, AL; his twin sister, Christy Coker of Mobile, AL; his brother, Kenny (Stacey) Coker of Walnut Hill, FL; his nephews, Lucas Coker and Lee (Maja) Marshall; his great niece, Sofia Marshall; and a host of extended family and friends.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home Chapel with High Priest Beth Linam officiating. Interment will follow in Huxford Baptist Church Cemetery in Huxford, AL.
Active pallbearers will be Joseph Gleeson, Nathan Cole, Dawson Butts, Daniel Kirchharr, Koleman Wiggins, Colbie English and Andrew Clausell.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, March 5, 2025 from 11:30 a.m. until service time at 1:00 p.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home in Atmore, AL.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Pilots for Christ, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Make-A-Wish Foundation in Joey’s memory.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Brooks Ray Laney
March 1, 2025
The family of Brooks Ray Laney is deeply sorrowful to share that he peacefully transitioned into the arms of Jesus on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at the tender age of five years old after a short battle with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma, a rare and aggressive brain tumor.
Born December 13, 2019, Brooks came into the world with big blue eyes and immediately captured the hearts of his loved ones, most importantly, Tanner and Laura, as their precious firstborn son. As Brooks grew into a toddler, he kept them on their toes. He knew no fear, a quality that he would never lose. From climbing on high furniture to running a hundred miles an hour, that was our Brooks. He kept Laura and Tanner on their toes and the rest of his family laughing. From a young age, he had the biggest winning grin that made his whole face light up and you never questioned his excitement because it beamed from every part of his little body. Brooks became a wonderful big brother to his little sister, Josie. He taught her so many things in their years together, from how to ride a scooter to how to take care of the chickens. He was her favorite person, sidekick, and protector. Over the last year or two, Brooks transformed into the most genuine, loving, and smart little boy. His artistic abilities, interest in musical instruments, and love of learning was an inspiration to everyone who knew him. The creations he made and pictures he drew were always impressive and will forever serve as a reminder of his many talents at such a young age. We will never see a Lego, monster truck, or tractor without thinking of our little buddy. Although it was cut short, watching Brooks flourish was the experience of a lifetime. While we cannot understand this diagnosis or outcome, we find peace in knowing that we will see him again. We rest assured that he is among the many angels who are always near. Most of all, we thank God for the time that we had with him here on earth.
We want to personally thank everyone in the Jay, Chumuckla, and surrounding communities for your support through Brooks’ Battle, every nurse, doctor, and surgeon we encountered along the way, and anyone else who prayed or contributed throughout this journey.
Brooks is survived by his parents, Tanner and Laura Laney; sister, Josie Laney; grandparents, Tim and Vicki Laney, Leigh Ann and Jeff Cotton, Andy and Wanda Carnley; great-grandparents, Virginia Hendricks, Estelle Laney, James Earl and Nadine Carnley, Don and Jean Cook; uncles and aunts, Todd and Hannah Laney, Brian and Bridgett Carnley; cousins, Eli, Scout, and Stella Laney, Noah Carnley, Jackson and Nickolas Lawson, as well as many extended family members, close friends, and his classmates at Faith Christian Academy.
Brooks is preceded in death by his great-grandfathers, Ray Laney and B.D. Hendricks.
We will honor Brooks on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at Cornerstone Christian Church in Jay, Florida. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM with services beginning at noon. Burial will follow at Cora Baptist Church cemetery.
Active Pallbearers: Brandt Hendricks, Rush Hendricks, Jackson Lawson, Jake Bednarczyk, Andrew Polk, and Levi Findley. Honorary Pallbearers: Brooks’ classmates from Faith Christian Academy, who we know are with us in spirit.
In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to one of these worthy causes that are near and dear to our hearts:
- The University of Florida Pediatric Brain Tumor Fund
- The Ronald McDonald House
- The National Pediatric Cancer Foundation
- Rally Foundation
- Brooks’ Battle, which will be used to keep Brooks’ legacy alive and bless others as we have been blessed in both local and cancer communities.
Carole Joan (Corley) McGhe
February 28, 2025
Carole Joan (Corley) McGhee, age 82, of Walnut Hill, FL and later Deatsville, AL passed away on February 26, 2025. Carole was born on March 19, 1942 in Atmore, AL to D.B. Corley, Jr. and Hilda Brown Corley. Carole was a graduate of Ernest Ward High School in 1960. After high school, she attended and was a graduate of UAB School of Nursing in Birmingham, AL where she became a Registered Nurse. She loved nursing. She had many accomplishments in her career as a nurse. She was one of four nurses that opened the cardiac unit at Baptist Hospital in Pensacola, FL. She worked for the American Red Cross for a time and loved it. She also worked at Greenlawn Hospital in Atmore, AL for a while. She worked most of her career with the State of Florida where she was privileged to wear many caps while working there, from Home Health Nurse and doing home visits with patients to working with pregnant mothers and the Healthy Start Program to eventually becoming the Nursing Supervisor over the rural clinics of Century and Molino, FL. Nursing was Carole’s passion. She simply loved people and loved to help and care for them. She later retired from nursing in 2005, but she always said once a nurse always a nurse. She was a wonderful nurse, friend to many, and a beloved grandmother and Mother to her daughter, Nikki. She will be greatly missed by many.
Carole is preceded in death by her parents, D.B. Corley, Jr. and Hilda Brown Corley, and her husband, Garland “Plugy” McGhee, Jr.
Carole is survived by her daughter, Nikki (Bill) Harris of Deatsville, AL; her brother, Tom (Jackie) Corley of Sarasota, FL; her grandchildren, Jacob (Emma-Ruth) Boatner, Daniel Boatner, Melania Harris, and Micah Harris; her niece Lisa Corley along with a host of family and friends.
Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home Chapel in Atmore, AL with Rev. Jacob Boatner. Interment will follow in Walnut Hill Baptist Church Cemetery in Walnut Hill, FL.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 4, 2025 from 10:00 am until service time at 11:00 a.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home in Atmore, AL.
Cynthia Weaver
February 27, 2025
Cynthia Weaver of Spanish Fort, Alabama, passed away February 16, 2025. She was born in Atmore, Alabama on July 31, 1954, to Volly and Josie Weaver.
Prior to her illness, Cindy received her Bachelor's degree and was employed at The United States Sports Academy in Daphne, Alabama. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, traveling, going to the beach and was an avid reader. Cindy was dearly loved and will remain in our hearts forever. She was preceded in death by her father, Volly Weaver; her mother, Josie Mathis; stepfather, C. J. Mathis; and grandson, Jeremy Voels.
She is survived by children, Ken Byrd, Michael Byrd and Charlie (Pam) Byrd; grandchildren, Jonathon Byrd, Aiden Byrd and Shi-Ann Daley; brother, Bill (Angie) Weaver; sister, Lajuana Mathis; niece, Dana Weaver; nephew, Bill
Weaver Jr.; great nephew, Hunter Franklin; great niece, Marina Franklin; and sister-in-law Helen Black.
A graveside service will be held at Byrneville Community Church, 1351 Byrneville Road Century, Florida 32535, on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 2 p.m.
If you wish, make a contribution to your favorite charity in honor of Cindy.
Helen Elizabeth Armstrong
February 26, 2025
Ms. Helen Elizabeth Armstrong, age 96, passed away peacefully in Century, Florida, surrounded by her loving family. A native of Bluff Springs, Florida, she spent most of her life in Byrneville. Helen was a devoted member of Beulah Chapel Assembly of God, where she found community and connection throughout the years. Her warm spirit will be remembered by all who knew her.
She loved spending time with her family, and there were so many activities that brought them together. Cooking was one of her favorite ways to show her love, especially when she made her special cat head biscuits and delicious lemon pie. Every Sunday, she would attend church and join in the joyful gospel singings, filling the air with music and laughter. She enjoyed playing games like dominos with her cousin Hazel and relaxing with word searches and crosswords. Listening to the radio was another cherished pastime, often filling their home with wonderful tunes and stories. All these moments created warm memories that she held dear.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Louis W. (Bettie Gay) Armstrong, four brothers, John Hugh Armstrong, Winton “Bill” Armstrong, George Armstrong, Clayton Armstrong and one niece Linda Smith.
She is survived by her two brothers, Herman Armstrong, of Byrneville, FL; Virgil E. (Anita) Armstrong, of Flomaton, AL; nieces, Betty Ann Tharp, Debbie Waters, Rita Adams, Joy Jordan, Jan Clark, nephews, Lawrence “Dick” Armstrong, Richard Armstrong, Paul Armstrong, sister in-law, Bettie Armstrong, numerous great nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Funeral service will be held Thursday, February 27, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Byrneville Community Church with Brother Paul Armstrong and Reverend Fred Stallworth officiating.
Burial will follow at Byrneville Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 1:00 PM until service time at 2:00 PM at Byrneville Community Church.
Pallbearers will be Lawrence Armstrong, Richard Armstrong, Rick Thornton, Jerry Bondurant, Turner Armstrong and Gary Bailey.
Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Home, Atmore, Alabama is in charge of all arrangements.
Veronica Lynn Harris
February 26, 2025
Mrs. Veronica Lynn Harris, who was 52 years old, passed away on February 26, 2025, in Pensacola, Florida. A native of Pensacola, she spent the last 17 years living in Century. Veronica faced her battle with cancer for eight long years, always displaying incredible strength and never complaining about her situation. She will be remembered for her courage and the love she shared with those around her.
She was a vibrant person with a joyful spirit who loved every moment of life. The beach was her happy place, where she felt free and relaxed. She had a passion for adventure, often taking her four-wheeler out to explore new trails. In her workshop, she turned pieces of wood into beautiful crafts, and she found joy in visiting local craft shows to share and discover new ideas. Her family and friends were very important to her; she cherished the time spent laughing and creating memories together. She also loved watching cooking shows, always eager to try out new recipes in her kitchen. Gardening brought her peace, as she nurtured plants and watched them bloom, adding color to her life.
She is preceded in death by her father, Warren Eugene Austin.
Mrs. Harris is survived by her loving husband of twenty years, Wade Harris of Century, Florida; daughters, Analeigh Harris of Century, Florida, and Synda Harris of Century, Florida; mother, Johanna Austin of Century, Florida; grandson, Onyx Davis of Century, Florida; sister, Kathy (Fred) Kelley of Alpharetta, Georgia; niece and nephew, Logan and Kristen.
Funeral service will be held Sunday, March 2, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Homes.
Burial will follow at Godwin Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 1 p.m. until service time at 2 p.m. at Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Homes
Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Home in Atmore, Alabama is in charge of all arrangements.
Russell (Rusty) H. LaCoste, Jr.
February 25, 2025
Russell (Rusty) H. LaCoste, Jr., 69, went to heaven on February 15, 2025. Rusty was born on June 26, 1955, at Baptist Hospital in Pensacola. He graduated from Woodham High School, was a proud member of the Moose Lodge, and retired from Ascend Performance Materials after years of dedicated service.
Rusty had a deep passion for family, cherished time with friends, and found true joy in the great outdoors. A true NASCAR enthusiast, he not only loved watching the races but also took to the tracks himself. Racing dirt tracks across Northwest Florida and South Alabama, Rusty’s competitive spirit and skill earned him many trophies. Above all, he enjoyed life most when surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating memories that will be treasured forever. His warmth, adventurous heart, and dedication to what he loved left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Rusty was preceded in death by his parents, Russell H. LaCoste, Sr. and Etta Mae LaCoste, and his beloved granddaughter, Alexa Haley LaCoste.
He is survived by his loving wife, Carole K. LaCoste; his children, Rachel H. LaCoste, Dusty (Jessica) LaCoste, and Autumn Welter; his grandchildren, Madison, Lilly, J.D., Chloe (Zachary) and Ethan; his great-grandchildren, Lucas and Remington; his sisters, Glenda LaCoste and Sandra (Mack) Cramer; his niece, Pam; and his grand-nieces and nephews.
A Visitation with family will be held at 1:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 1st, at Faith Chapel North.
Rusty’s legacy of love, adventure, and family will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Rex Morgan Sheldt
February 25, 2025
Mr. Rex Morgan Sheldt, aged 69, passed away peacefully at his home on February 21, 2025. He was originally from Willoughby, Ohio, and had previously lived in Painesville, Ohio, before moving to Davisville, Florida, where he resided for the last nine years. His warmth and kindness will be missed by all who knew him.
He loved spending his free time enjoying the great outdoors, whether it was hunting in the crisp morning air or fishing by the quiet lakes. Gardening was another passion of his, especially when it came to growing juicy tomatoes that he often shared with family and friends. In the evenings, he found joy in watching shows like “Swamp People,” “Pawn Stars,” and “Ax Men,” always fascinated by the stories they told. He also had a soft spot for tales of Big Foot, which added a sense of adventure to his downtime. Traveling to Ohio was a regular part of his life, allowing him to stay connected with family while cheering on his favorite football team, the Cleveland Browns. Being surrounded by loved ones during those visits made every moment special.
Mr. Sheldt is survived with loving wife of nine years Terresa Michelle Sheldt of Davisville, Florida; two step-sons, Joey (Maryanne) Palachek of Painesville, Ohio, and Mike (Amber) Palachek of Painesville, Ohio; step-daughter, Bethany Prado of Atmore, Alabama; his dog Max; brother, Steve (Angela) Sheldt of Sierra Vista, Arizona; four sisters, Janet (Dave) King of Madison, Ohio, Cynthia Hendricks of Pensacola, Florida, Paula Dyson of Key West Florida, and Marla Sheldt of Key West, Florida; seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Homes, Atmore, AL. is in charge of all arrangements.
Nellie Ree Burkett
February 24, 2025
Mrs. Nellie Ree Burkett, 79 years old, passed away peacefully at her home on February 23, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. A lifelong resident of Atmore, Alabama, Mrs. Burkett was a dedicated member of Calvary Baptist Church. Her warm spirit and caring nature will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Mrs. Burkett was a warm-hearted woman who cherished her time with family, especially her grandkids. She loved being at home, where she could cook delicious meals like homemade biscuits, rice and eggs, and spaghetti. In her younger days, she enjoyed fishing, but as she got older, her hobbies shifted to crafting and watching QVC. Mrs. Burkett also had a passion for playing cards, especially Rummy, and spent twenty years working as a seamstress at Vanity Fair, where she honed her skills and creativity. Her home was always filled with love, laughter, and the wonderful taste of her cooking.
She is preceded in death by her parents, James (Iva Estelle Rutherford) Smith; husband, Tommy Burkett; brothers, A.G. Smith, Ed Smith, and Bruce Smith; sisters, Dellie Roberts and Susie Stewart.
Mrs. Burkett is survived by her only son, Danny (Tracey) Burkett of Atmore, Alabama; grandchildren, Victoria Burkett, Nick Mills, Asleigh Norris, Raven Weaver and Colby Burkett; great-grandchildren, Jax Brown, Emily Brown, Lizzie Stewart, Knox Norris, Collins Norris, River Norris, Greyson Maughon, Nova-Lee Maughon, Presley McCardy and Parker Burkett.
Funeral service will be held Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Homes, LLC.
Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, February 26, 2025 from 1:00 PM until service time at 2:00 PM at Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Homes, LLC.
Pallbearers will be Colby Burkett, Nick Mills, Tim Albritton, Olan Albritton, Mike Burkett & Roger Scott
Honorary pallbearer will be William Stewart
Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Home, LLC Atmore, Alabama is in charge of all arrangements
Helen Elizabeth Armstrong
February 24, 2025
Ms. Helen Elizabeth Armstrong, age 96, passed away peacefully in Century, Florida, surrounded by her loving family. A native of Bluff Springs, Florida, she spent most of her life in Byrneville. Helen was a devoted member of Beulah Chapel Assembly of God, where she found community and connection throughout the years. Her warm spirit will be remembered by all who knew her.
She loved spending time with her family, and there were so many activities that brought them together. Cooking was one of her favorite ways to show her love, especially when she made her special cat head biscuits and delicious lemon pie. Every Sunday, she would attend church and join in the joyful gospel singings, filling the air with music and laughter. She enjoyed playing games like dominos with her cousin Hazel and relaxing with word searches and crosswords. Listening to the radio was another cherished pastime, often filling their home with wonderful tunes and stories. All these moments created warm memories that she held dear.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Louis W. (Bettie Gay) Armstrong, four brothers, John Hugh Armstrong, Winston “Bill” Armstrong, George Armstrong, Clayton Armstrong and one niece Linda Smith.
She is survived by her two brothers, Herman Armstrong, of Byrneville, FL; Virgil E. (Anita) Armstrong, of Flomaton, AL; nieces, Betty Ann Tharp, Debbie Waters, Rita Adams, Joy Jordan, Jan Clark, nephews, Lawrence “Dick” Armstrong, Richard Armstrong, Paul Armstrong, numerous great nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Funeral service will be held Thursday, February 27, 2025 at 2 p.m. at Byrneville Community Church with Brother Paul Armstrong and Reverend Fred Stallworth officiating.
Burial will follow at Byrneville Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 1 p.m. until service time at 2 p.m. at Byrneville Community Church.
Pallbearers will be Lawrence Armstrong, Richard Armstrong, Louis Tharp, and Jerry Bondurant.