Obituaries
Vicki Renee McCullough
Graveside service for Vicki Renee McCullough will be 11 a.m., Thursday, December 5, in Clear Branch Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation is from 9 a.m. until the time of service at Clear Branch Baptist Church.
Mrs. McCullough, 55, of Brookhaven, died December 2, 2024, at her residence. She was born in Brookhaven, September 3, 1969, to Carl Ronnie Diamond and Doris Luper Diamond. Vicki was a loving wife, mother, daughter, and Nae Nae. She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her three beautiful grandchildren. She was a member of Clear Branch Baptist Church.
Vicki is preceded in death by her grandparents, Jim and Virgie Ruth Diamond and Percy and Clara Mae Luper; uncle Ricky Diamond; aunts Carolyn Day (Jack Day), and Betty Stanley (Jack Stanley).
She is survived by her husband of 35 years, David Paul McCullough; her parents; children, Casey David McCullough (Jennifer), Ronald Cade McCullough (Myranda); grandchildren, Harley David McCullough, Cadence Ann-Clark McCullough, and Felix Rowan McCullough. She is also survived by a host of other aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
The family would like to extend heart felt thank you to all those who came to our aid during this time, also thank you to all who have stopped in to check on the family and show their love and support, we are truly grateful for everything.
Lena Mae Huhn Townsend Thames
The funeral service for Lena Mae Huhn Townsend Thames will be 2 p.m., Saturday, December 7, at Riverwood Family, with burial in Easthaven Cemetery. Visitation is from Noon until the time of service.
Ms. Lena Mae Huhn Townsend Thames, a lifelong resident of the East Lincoln Community, whose life spanned over a century, passed away at her daughter and son-in-law’s home in Raymond, MS, on Saturday, November 30, 2024. Born on October 9, 1922, Ms. Lena Mae lived a remarkable and fulfilling life. She was a mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and soon-to-be great, great grandmother. She was a determined and spirited lady. It was her new ambition to crawl out from under her tray in her wheelchair and begin her walk back home. She had things to do like milking the cow, taking care of her mother and father, getting her hair permed. Needless to say, the last year of her life was very challenging for her and those tending to her needs. She could climb over her rail, setting off alarms, heading for her exit like an escape artist.
Ms. Lena Mae was an honors graduate of East Lincoln High School, Brookhaven, MS, graduating at sixteen. She married W. N. “Bill” Townsend shortly thereafter. Mr. Townsend told how he and she had eloped and faced the scrutiny of her father upon their return. It did not take long for Mr. Hampton to accept him into the family.
Hard work and the ambition to make a difference influenced her adult life and accomplishments. She worked many years at Stahl Urban. She loved to sew, knit, and crochet. She gifted her children and grandchildren with quilts as keepsakes. At age 50, she attended Co-Lin for a nursing degree, where she was graduated as Valedictorian and was honored to receive the outstanding nursing student award. She worked at King’s Daughters Hospital for several years, until becoming the nurse for the practice of Drs. Fuller and Irby, Internal Medicine. She retired and did private patient duty for a year. Her husband, Bill, suffered a severe stroke and was completely incapacitated and unable to speak. She handled his care for ten years, until his passing on Christmas Eve, 1999.
Her life was far from over. At age 88, she married Paul Thames of Lawrence County. They had been acquaintances for many years. He passed February 10, 2021.They were married for ten years.
Ms. Lena Mae’s children are Alice Louise Cliburn (Roger) of Raymond, MS, and Charles Wilton Townsend (Linda) of Spring, TX. Grandchildren in order of birth are Melissa Cliburn Launius (Perry) of Flowood, MS; Kimberly Cliburn Hutchins (Roger) of Southaven, MS; Stephanie Townsend Busch (Charles) Spring, TX; Erica Whitaker (Jimmy) Magnolia, TX; Brian Townsend (Whitney) of Cypress, TX.
Great Grandchildren surviving Ms. Lena Mae holding a special place in her heart are Peyton Farmer Cole, DVM (Tanner), Porter, TX; Braden Farmer, Spring, TX; Regan Launius, Flowood, MS; Devin Hutchins, Southaven, MS; Chase Whitaker, Magnolia, TX; Hailey Hutchins, Southaven, MS; Bristol Whitaker, Magnolia, TX; Aubrey Townsend and Mackenzie Townsend, Cypress, TX.
Also surviving Ms. Lena Mae are Tammy Thames, Landon Thames, and Logan Thames (Kelsa) and their daughter Lynnlee.
Ms. Lena Mae’s parents were Charles Hampton Huhn and Alice Asenath McGuffie Keene Huhn. She was the youngest of seven children: Frankie Keene McGraw, Mae Keene Wilson, Andy Lee Keene, Eugene Keene, Lizzie Keene Sartin, and Charles Huhn; all having preceded her in death.
Ms. Lena Mae leaves behind a legacy of purpose, shared memories, and love of family. She will be forever remembered for all the egg custard pies she made for her family and community and her famous chicken and dumplings! She was an inspiration to live one’s best life. She did.
Belinda "Gail" Hudson
The funeral service for Belinda “Gail” Hudson will be 11 a.m., Wednesday, December 4, at Riverwood Family with burial in Newell Cemetery. Visitation is from 9 a.m. until the time of service.
Mrs. Hudson, 66, of Wesson, died November 30, 2024, at King’s Daughters Medical Center. She was born in Laurel, MS, January 11, 1958, to Merideth Newell and Bennie Jean Cooley Newell.
Gail was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church. She treasured every moment with her grandchildren, and she always enjoyed helping those in the community. She would always be there when they needed her. She took great pride in working in her yard and enjoyed the simple things of life. One of her favorite things to do was just spending time outside at night looking at the stars.
She is preceded in death by her parents.
Those left to cherish her memory are her husband of 45 years, Marcelle Hudson; children, Brad Hudson (Stephanie) and Jason Hudson; brothers, Gene Newell, Stacey Newell (Wendy); three grandchildren, Savannah Hudson, Preston Hudson, and Kiptyn Hudson. She is also survived by other family members, Ashley Lynch, Terry Hudson (Judy), Tammy Means (Joey), Tony Hudson (Pam), and sister-in-law, Gail Smith.
Shanna Case Lee
The funeral service for Shanna Case Lee will be 2 p.m., Tuesday, December 3, at Philadelphia Baptist Church, with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation is from Noon until the time of service.
Mrs. Lee, 55, of Brookhaven, died November 29, 2024, at King’s Daughters Medical Center. She was born in Brookhaven on January 11, 1969, to Charles Monroe Case and Evelyn Calcote Case. She was a beloved wife, mother, and daughter. Mrs. Lee retired after 26 years of teaching at Loyd Star School and she was a published author of four children’s books. She was a cherished friend to many and put the needs of others before her own. She found great fulfilment in coming to the aid of others.
Shanna had many interests and hobbies including antique and thrift shopping, decorating, arts and crafts and planting flowers and gardening. She also was an animal lover and an amazing Nana to her three “grandpups”. Shanna made the world a better place by spreading the love of Jesus Christ everywhere she went. She was a faithful member of Philadelphia Baptist Church and will be greatly missed by her family, friends and faith family.
She is preceded in death by her grandparents, Vernon and Wisie Case and Fred and Winnie Calcote; infant brother, Brandt Case; and father-in-law, James Lee, Sr.
She is survived by her husband of 33 years, James William Lee, Jr.; her parents; children, William Houston Lee (Dejone’) and Charlie Anna Lee; brothers, Shane Case (Jennye), Karsten Case (Cassie); her mother-in-law, Bobbie Lee; and her sidekick, “Mattie”.
Margaret Marascalco Weathersby
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Margaret Marascalco Weathersby, who departed this life on November 25, 2024, at the age of 81.
Born on February 21, 1943, Margaret was the beloved wife of Bob Weathersby and the devoted mother of Kim Weathersby (Patrick Murray), Kellie Barrett (Patrick), and Kristi Stutzman (Ronnie). She was also the cherished Gigi of Connor Smith (Kenzie), Morgan White (Colby), Sean Patrick Murray, Sophia Murray, and Emma Barrett. She was the beloved Great-Gigi to Evy Smith, Asa Smith, Emy Smith, and Maggie White.
Margaret's family hailed from Cefalù, Italy, a heritage she held close to her heart. Her love for Italian culture and traditions was woven into the fabric of her life and shared with her family. In 1974, Margaret and Bob made Brookhaven, Mississippi, their home, where they lovingly raised their three daughters and built a life centered on faith, family, and community.
A devout Catholic, Margaret was a dedicated member of her parish, where she found joy and fulfillment in singing and playing guitar with the choir. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, inspiring all who knew her with her kindness, grace, and unwavering devotion.
Margaret's funeral will be held Friday, December 6th at St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 227 E Cherokee St., Brookhaven, MS 39601. Visitation will be held at 10:00 and the funeral mass will begin at 11:00.
Margaret's legacy of love and devotion will forever be remembered by her family and friends. She will be deeply missed and never forgotten.
Robert Dean "Tony" Archer
Robert Dean (Tony) Archer, 84, Of Brookhaven, passed from this life on November 29, 2024 at King’s Daughters Medical Center. He was born on November 25, 1940, to Robert Dean Archer, Sr. and Eleanor Louise Long.
Tony served in The United States Navy and was a Security Guard with Securitas at APTIV. He loved to fish, hunt and watch swamp people.
Preceding him in death was his parents; his wife, Mary Etta McRaney; grandson, Jeremiah Howe, sister, Barbara Gene Archer; son-in-law, Edward Dilley.
Those left to cherish his memory is his daughters, Carol Lynn Hathaway and husband Donald, Tina Louise Dilley and husband Edward and Kathleen Joy Spearbecker; brother, Patrick Archer; sister, Elouise Langenbach. He is also survived by 4 grandchildren, Kristopher Stevens, Angela Krages and husband Jason, Shannon Perkins and wife Judy, Brandon Howe and wife Lee Ann along with 14 great grandchildren with 8 great-great grandchildren.
Charles "Chuck" Edwin Roberts, Jr.
A memorial service for Charles Edwin Roberts, Jr. will be held on Saturday, December 21st, at 11 a.m., at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church. Visitation is from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service.
Mr. Roberts, 66, of Bogue Chitto, MS, died November 3, 2024, at his residence. He was born on November 6, 1957, to Charles Edwin Roberts, Sr. and Betty Moak Roberts Sandifer. He served his country in the United States Army and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel, receiving numerous military honors. Charles enjoyed watching football and Nascar, and he was very interested in genealogy records.
He is preceded in death by his father; grandparents, Julius and Alma Roberts and Ray and Selena Moak; and one sister, Elizabeth Roberts.
He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Deborah D. Roberts; his mother; children, Eva Rael Rushton (Alexander), Brianna Dale Goodrich (Brian); sisters, Deborah "Debbie" Huhn and Mary Roberts; numerous grandchildren; and bonus children, Heather Jetton (Brad), Holly Rachel (David), Elizabeth Riggs (James), and Hanna McDowell (Donavan). He is also survived by a host of other loving family members and friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Mt Pleasant Baptist Church, 3020 Mt Pleasant Lane SE, Bogue Chitto MS. 39629
Marjorie Nell Thornhill
Her life will be celebrated on Monday, December 2, 2024, at Stronghope Baptist Church. Visitation is from 10-11, followed by a service at 11. Riverwood Family Funeral Service is entrusted with the arrangements
Marjorie Nell Thornhill—a remarkable woman whose journey began in Wesson, Mississippi, on September 15, 1934. Marjorie Nell lived a long and fulfilling life of 90 years, bringing laughter, love, and warmth to everyone around her. She passed away from this life, on November 26, 2024, at Silver Cross Nursing Home.
For those who had the privilege of knowing her, Marjorie Nell was the very heartbeat of the Stronghope community. Her faith in Christianity guided her throughout her life, and she was an active and cherished member of Stronghope Baptist Church. Her contributions were many, from singing, to Bible School and various committees. Her sweet and funny nature always brought a smile, while her commitment was inspiring to all.
Marjorie Nell's love for animals was evident in her role as a dog groomer at Dr. Cameron's Animal Hospital in Hazlehurst, MS—a job she held dear. She also brought her hardworking nature to places like the Potter Company in Wesson, MS. In her older years, her storytelling captured hearts, as she regaled tales from her youth involving hotrods and mischievous adventures.
Her family, however, was her greatest joy. Marjorie Nell was a doting grandmother and great-grandmother who made sure her little ones were always well-fed with their favorite snacks, butter noodles, and of course, candy. Summers were for camping, where she somehow managed to keep white clothes spotless amidst all the fun. Her grand dog Larry provided her with joy and companionship, keeping her entertained with his antics.
She is preceded in death by her parents, David E. Martin and Alma Leona Anding Martin; husband, Elgene Thornhill; siblings, Marvin “Pete” Martin, Elon Martin, Louise Beard, and twin sister, Rochelle Martin.
Those left to cherish her memory is her daughter, Elaine Beall (Ricky); grandchildren, Amanda Everett (Michael), Benjamin Beall, and Jennifer Burch (Brian); three great-grandchildren, Wyatt Everett, Ally Everett, and Millie Castle (Dylan); two great-great grandchildren, Vivian Everett and Edith Castle.
The family would like to thank the staff of Silver Cross Nursing Home and Gentiva Hospice.
Ronnie Lee Rast
Mr. Ronnie Lee Rast, 74, of Pearl, MS, died November 21, 2024, at Brandon Court Nursing Home in Brandon, MS. He was born in Brookhaven, MS on July 29, 1950, to Lee Allen Rast and Elsie Earlene Sullivan Rast. Mr. Rast served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He worked in finance and was partner of a Banking Needs Firm.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Iris Ilaine Parker Rast; and by his father.
Those left to cherish his memory are his mother, Elsie Rast; sons, Scott Rast and Allen Rast; brother, Terry Rast (Janice); two grandchildren, Cade Rast and Zach Rast; and one great grandson, Allan Rast.
Peggy Jane Reeves
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Peggy Jane Reeves, who peacefully entered eternal rest at Silver Cross Health and Rehab on November 25, 2024. Peggy was born in Brookhaven, Mississippi on February 11, 1939, the daughter of Benjamin Kinzie Reeves and Lillie Burns Reeves.
A lifelong resident of Lincoln County, Peggy was a proud graduate of Enterprise High School and Copiah-Lincoln Community College. She began her career with Kees Motor Company before working with Godbold Insurance Agency and other insurance firms in the Brookhaven area, earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike.
Peggy was preceded in death by her loving parents; her sister, Janette Reeves Hart; brother-in-law, Stanley Ray Hart; and her infant brother, Benjamin Kinzie Reeves, Jr.
She leaves behind a loving family, including her brother, James Edward Reeves (Carolyn); her nephews, Charles Ray Hart (Wanda), Michael Hart and James Kenzie Reeves (Tonya); her nieces, Janice Haley (James) and Amie Smith (Bryan); as well as several beloved great-nephews and great-nieces.
Services to celebrate Peggy's life will be held at Riverwood Family Funeral Service on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
Visitation will begin at Noon, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m., officiated by Rev. Dan Perry and assisted by Rev. Mike Grenn. Burial will take place at Topisaw Baptist Cemetery, 2668 Topisaw Drive SE, Bogue Chitto, MS 39629.
Pallbearers will include Charles Ray Hart, Matthew Hart, James Kenzie Reeves, James Kenzie Reeves Jr., Bryan Smith, and Ernie Triplett. Honorary pallbearers will be Michael R. Hart, James Haley, and Neal Haley.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Topisaw Baptist Church Cemetery Fund.
