Joy to the World

UNITED STATES AIR FOR BAND

May There Be Christmas Blessings and Joy

Happy Birthday In December

Weaver, Mary Anthony McLemore (MHS)	Dec. 27
Thigpen, Morris (MHS)	Dec. 25
Burnett, Ivan (MHS)	Dec. 22
McCraney, Charles (MHS) (deceased)	Dec. 18
Long, Tee Mann (MHS)	Dec. 16
Bailey, Bob (MHS)	Dec. 12
Smith, Minor (MHS) (deceased)	Dec. 11
McDonald, Patsy (MHS)	Dec. 11
White, Jo Ann Mills (MHS)	Dec. 10

Bobby Fleming, deceased

Graveside services for Mr. Bobby Fleming will begin at 1:30 pm Tuesday, November 26, 2019 at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens with Reverend Jack Kern officiating. Robert Barham Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.

Mr. Fleming, 79, of Meridian passed away, Friday, November 22, 2019 at his residence surrounded by family.

Bobby was born in Clark County MS in 1940 and was a graduate of the class of 1958 from Meridian High School where he played on the baseball team.  After graduation he continued playing on semi-pro teams where he excelled at all sports.  He was also heavily involved and enjoyed coaching all ages of youth baseball.
 

Bobby worked for several insurance companies before forming a partnership in Fleming Robinson Parker and Goforth Independent Agency from where he retired.  He was a longtime member of Highland Baptist Church.

Mr. Bobby is survived by his wife of 60 years, Eloise Hurst Fleming; children, Michael Steven Fleming, (Jo Marie), Richard Anthony Fleming (Jennifer), Kristy Suzanne Fleming. Granddaughter, Madeline Martin Fleming as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and his beloved dog, Maggie.

Mr. Fleming is preceded in death by his parents, Calvert James and Gladys Dansby Fleming.

The family suggest that memorials be made as donations to St. Patrick’s School or to Russell Christian Academy in lieu of flowers.

Pallbearers will be Steven Fleming, Richard Fleming, Stephen Jones, Brookes Jones, Joe Jackson, and Jerry Murphy.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at robertbarhamffh.com

The Fleming family will receive friends from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm at the funeral home prior to graveside rights.

O God our Father, Creator of all the living, we entrust to Your gentle careall those we love who have gone before us;and have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again. . . .

Eternal rest, grant unto Bobby Fleming, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.

May the souls of the faithful departed
through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

William Clyde Stephens, husband Mary Jane Spencer Stephens

FEBRUARY 25, 1939 – NOVEMBER 13, 2019

William C. Stephens passed away at home on November 13, 2019 in Edmond, Oklahoma with his loving family by his side. Bill was born on February 25, 1939 in Meridian, Mississippi.

Bill received his Bachelor’s degree from Mississippi State University and his Master’s in Social Work from Louisiana State University. He worked for a few years as a federal probation officer in Mississippi, then in 1967 he and his family moved to Oklahoma. Bill was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

He enjoyed biking, reading and walking in his neighborhood.

Bill was preceded in death by his son, John Lamont Stephens, and his parents, Clyde Stephens and Eloise (Toland) Williams. He is survived by his wife, Mary Jane (Spencer) Stephens; sons, William C. Stephens, Jr. (Cristina), and David Spencer Stephens; four grandchildren: William Spencer Stephens, Sarah Shourie Stephens, Spencer Read Stephens, and Adam David Stephens; and sisters, Lynn Wilkerson and Kathryn Randall (Lee).

O God our Father, Creator of all the living, we entrust to Your gentle careall those we love who have gone before us;and have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again. . . .

Eternal rest, grant unto William Clyde Stephens, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.

May the souls of the faithful departed
through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

Carolyn Gipson Falcon, deceased

August 9, 1940 - November 3, 2019

Our mother Carolyn Gipson Falcon, age 79, formerly of Meridian Miss,, and a lot of other places, has arrived at her final address as of Sunday Nov. 3, 2019.

Carolyn graduated from Meridian High School, class of 1958. Aer graduation she made her way to Florida, where she met and married a Navy man, our father Gene Moore, and they proceeded to have three wonderful children, Tonya, Kashlyn and Develin, who they dragged all over the United States. She did return with her family to live in Meridian on several occasions.

Carolyn seemed to love traveling and moving and continued to do just that after her divorce from our father. She tried wedded bliss three more times to John Guillot, Jack Minton and Ed Falcon, but found it really wasn't for her. She outlived three of the four.

Carolyn has been spending her days in North Dakota since 1993 when she was bothered by a stroke in 2014. She continued to hang out in North Dakota with her soon to be ex-husband Ed Falcon, and her beloved son Develin Moore. Develin was with her when her second stroke came calling and decided her final address. We do not believe she suffered, and that's the way she would have wanted it.

Carolyn loved coffee, cigarettes, and slot machines, and she enjoyed all three in her later years. Ok, maybe she didn't wait that long.

Carolyn was proceeded in death by her parents Champ C. Gipson and Margie Swann Joiner both of Meridian. Her oldest brother Ray Joiner Jr of Meridian also decided to beat her to the Pearly gates.

Those of us remaining waiting our turn are her loving sister Champee Kemp and husband Bill, her patient brother Charlie Joiner and wife Kay, her sister Rita Kay Benton and husband Richard, her sister Johna Rodgers and husband Timothy, her sister Darla Alex and husband Eugene; her much loved stepmother Alva Merle Etchen, and her sister-in-law Debbie Joiner.

Then there's us, her children, Tonya Moore Clayton and husband Tony, Kashlyn Moore Covington and husband Frank, and Develin Moore, the baby, and her beloved son. She also leaves behind seven sad grandchildren: Lance, Keith, Autumn, Felicia, Michael, Neil and Colin, as well as 11 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of a service (because she didn't want one) the family will hold a "Celebration of Life."

Friends may contribute to the Salvation Army at SalvationArmyUSA.org in the name of Carolyn Falcon, so she can continue to help those less fortunate than herself.

O God our Father, Creator of all the living,
 we entrust to Your gentle careall those we love who have gone before us;and have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again. . . .

Eternal rest, grant unto Carolyn Gipson Falcon, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon her.

May the souls of the faithful departed
through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Birthday in November

George, Philip, Nov. 28

Williams, Jewel Patridge, Nov. 24

Farr, Jimmy, Nov. 21

Harmon, Kenneth, Nov. 19

Adams, Ronnie, Nov. 14

Kozman, Carolyn Tanner, Nov. 12

Davis, Michael M., Nov. 12

Tatum, Bill, Nov. 10

Carlisle, Patsy Craven, Nov. 10

Hall, Carol Annette Walley, Nov. 2

Celebration of Life in Memory of Bob Merson

HAPPY BIRTHDAY - OCTOBER

Rogers, Joyce Thompson (MHS) (dec'd) October 30

Russell, Ray (MHS) October 29

Strickland, Maxine Reeder (MHS) October 25

Edwards, Ella Kappes (MHS) October 24

Davidson, Marty (MHS) October 11

Garrett, Dorothy Pigott (MHS) October 6

Obituary of Robert M. Merson, Husband of Arlene Davidson Merson

Robert M. Merson, passed away September 24, 2019 in Boca Raton, FL with his loving family by his side.

Bob was born on May 1, 1938 in Oklahoma City, OK. He and his older brother and best friend, Harry were raised by their loving parents, Camille and Herman Merson.

Growing up, Bob's parents taught him that the most important things in life are family, showing people respect, always staying true to your words and following the Jewish faith.

Bob lived every day of his life believing and following those values and naturally inspired others to do the same.

In 1957, Bob enlisted in The 
United States Air Force. In 1958, while studying at the University of Oklahoma, Bob met the love of his life, Arlene. Their immediate attraction and appreciation for one another was truly a rare find, and for 61 years, their family and friends witnessed that their love was truly one out of a storybook.https://www.jafco.org/donations/).

In May of 1961, Bob graduated from the University of Oklahoma married to Arlene and excitingly waited for the arrival of their first born. Bob set out to build a career in order to create a wonderful life for his family.

Bob was always a "go-getter" and a remarkable businessman. Shortly after moving to Meridian, MS, Bob saw an opportunity to purchase Southern Electric Supply, which at the time was a very small division of the Southern Pipe and Supply company.

Through his consistent hard work and keen ability to identify the potential and talent in others, Bob grew the company to become one of the largest electrical supply companies in the United States.

Although many people viewed Bob as outstanding and inspiring, he remained completely humble. He never spoke about his business success because he believed that the only success that mattered, was being kind to others and providing strong family values.

Bob's happiest times were those spent with his family. Bob was a loving and inspiring father to his two children, Howard and Michelle and a "Papa Bob" to his four grandchildren, Josh, Rebecca, Sammi and Hannah.

Everyone who met Bob came away a better person because they experienced his warmth and sincerity. Bob Merson positively influenced and touched the lives of thousands of people; he is a true legend and will be missed dearly.

Funeral Services 10:30AM Thursday September 26, 2019 at Temple Beth El 333 SW 4th Ave. Boca Raton, FL 33432.

If you wish to make a donation in honor of Bob, please make it to JAFCO, Jewish Adoption and Family Care Options, 4200 N University Dr, Sunrise, FL 33351 954-749-7230 (

For further information contact KRONISH FUNERAL SERVICES / (info@kronishfuneral.com) or 561-717-2874.

God full of mercy who dwells on high

Grant perfect rest on the wings of Your Divine Presence

among the holy and the pure

who shine in the brightness of the firmament

to the soul of Robert M. Merson

who has gone to his eternal rest

as all his family and friends

pray for the elevation of his soul.

His resting place shall be in the Garden of Eden.

Therefore, the Master of mercy will care for him

under the protection of His wings for all time

And bind his soul in the bond of everlasting life.

God is his inheritance and he will rest in peace

and let us say Amen.

James Ray Hopkins Obituary

Funeral services for James Ray Hopkins will be held Tuesday, September 24, 2019 at 11:00 AM at Robert Barham Family Funeral Home, with Rev. Tom Belcher officiating. Burial will be at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.

Mr. Hopkins, age 79, of Meridian passed away Saturday, September 21, 2019 at his son’s home in Birmingham surrounded by family.

He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church where he served as a deacon for over 50 years. He retired from Lauderdale County DHS where he served as a social worker helping foster and abused children in addition to serving others seeking guidance. He enjoyed reading, watching old western movies, and family activities especially those with the grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years Judy Hopkins; children, Wendy Stroud (James) and Kevin Hopkins (Keri); grandchildren, Meagan Spangler, Taylor Welch (Ethan), Kevin Hopkins, Jr. and Kristen Hopkins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Bernice Hopkins.

Pallbearers will be Donald Vance, Max Vance, Al Seal, Mark Schroeder, Billy Rogers, Lawrence Hunter, Willie Hudnell and Kevin Hopkins, Jr.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at robertbarhmaffh.com.

Visitation will be held Monday, September 23, 2019 at Robert Barham Family Funeral Home from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

O God our Father, Creator of all the living, we entrust to Your gentle careall those we love who have gone before us;and have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again. . . .

Eternal rest, grant unto James Ray Hopkins, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.

May the souls of the faithful departed
through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

Happy Birthday

Willis, Kathleen Bustin	Sept. 28
Elliott, Gay Love Rawlings (deceased)	Sept. 26
Grimes, Lynne Johnson	Sept. 25
Nichols, James Nic	Sept. 20
Smith, Briggs	Sept. 20
Rayzor, Peggie Sellers (deceased)	Sept. 20
Skelton, Jere	Sept. 19
Rucker, William J. (Bill)	Sept. 16
Butler, Linda Thompson	Sept. 13
Chatham, Bob	Sept. 8
Moore, Mary Petty (deceased)	Sept. 7
Massey, Don	Sept. 6

Happy Birthday August 2019

Chancellor, John (MHS) August 31

Davis, Joy Jean Shotts (MHS) August 27

Foil, Judy Johnson (MHS) August 20

Walz, Jinny Curran (MHS) August 15

Falton, Carolyn Gibson (MHS) August 9

Tomlinson, OFS, Ouida L. August 1

Pictures from Nancy Ranager

Happy Birthday - July

Tyner, Larry (MHS)	July 27th
James, David (MHS)	July 24th
Bruister, Gloria Brown (MHS)	July 21th
Johnson, Frances Ousley (MHS)	July 20th
Martin, Leila Keeton (MHS)	July 17th
Brand, Pat Stewart (MHS)	July 13th
Satterfield, Jimmy (MHS)	July 9th
Dollnig, Pat "Trish" Rawson (MHS)	July 8th
Dalton, Carey Ann Sanford (MHS) (dec'd)	July 5th
Quinn, Buddy (MHS)	July 1st

Shelia Kay Nicholson, daughter of Rosemary Stormer

Sheila Kay Nicholson went to be with her Lord June 12, 2019 in the presence of her loving family. She had fought a long battle with a rare, aggressive cancer and unfortunately in the end the cancer won.

Sheila has always loved sports, especially basketball. She continued to play basketball in college until her leg was injured so badly she could no longer play. So she turned to golf and watching football and soccer teams. She loved Alabama football as all who knew her are aware of. 

She will be dearly missed by her mother and stepfather, Rosemary and Kenneth Stormer, brother and sister in law, Glenn and Jill Nicholson, brother and sister in law, Keith and Kathy Nicholson, nephew, Kevin (and wife Cynthia) Nicholson, nephew, Danny Nicholson, and niece Taylor NIcholson who treated her as a "second mom". She was preceded in death by her father, Bobby Lee Nicholson.

We will celebrate Sheila's life on July 20, 2019 at 11:00AM at St. Andrews Church 3315 S. Bryan Road Brandon, FL 33511 (phone 813-689-6849).

Many of you have asked if we had established a place for donations. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Hope Hospice 9470 HealthPark Circle Fort Myers, FL 33908 or you can donate by going to the web site at www.hopehospice.org. The staff there was great.

_________________________

O God our Father, Creator of all the living,
we entrust to Your gentle care
all those we love who have gone before us;
and have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again. . . .

Eternal rest, grant unto Shelia Kay Nicholson, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon her.

May the souls of the faithful departed
through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

Peggy Sellers Rayzor

Peggy Sellers Rayzor - her freshman year at Ole Miss. Fall of 1958. Parade of Beauties and Favorites. From 1959 Ole Miss annual.

Peggy Louise Sellers Rayzor, deceased

September 20, 1940 - May 31, 2019

Service: 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 4, 2019 at First United Methodist Church.

Peggy Louise Sellers Rayzor passed away peacefully on May 31, 2019 in Fort Worth at her home surrounded by family.

Peggy was born on September 20, 1940 in Meridian, Mississippi and attended the University of Mississippi as one of the first women in the business degree program and a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. She subsequently moved to Midland, Texas and worked for Northern Natural Gas Company. She married the love of her life, J Newton Rayzor, on September 21, 1968 and moved to Fort Worth.

Peggy was an active member of the Fort Worth community; a Board member of the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, a board member of the Fort Worth Symphony, member of the Jewel Charity Ball, a docent at the Science and History Museum, Co-Chair of Mayfest, a volunteer for Camp Fire and Fort Worth Country Day School. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church and Rivercrest Country Club.

She had many dear friends who she cherished and loved. She traveled with her high school friends, the Dateless Dolls, and always delighted in hosting the Christmas party for her book club. She was a member of her book club for 35 years and her bridge club for almost as many years. She also enjoyed her investment club, creative writing, gardening and painting.

Her greatest joy was being a devoted mother, wife and grandmother. Her energy and enthusiasm were boundless and her creative spirit was simply magical. No one could throw a party like Peggy! Her laugh was contagious and her southern cooking was definitely not healthy, but worth the risk. She ADORED her dogs, past and present, including Wendy, Suzie Q, Baby, Lulu and Skip. She was known for her signature red lipstick and her fragrant perfume. She loved to dance for exercise and sing in the car. Her charismatic personality always made grey moments brighter and serious moments lighter. She had a talent for making everyone in her presence feel valued whether it was through her lifelong generosity or her beautiful smile. She loved her children and grandchildren dearly and they loved her to the moon and back.

The family would like to thank West Side caregivers, Regina Martinez, Tashiba King and Nicole Arnold for their unwavering kindness and support for Peggy. The family also sincerely thanks VITAS for their compassionate, professional care.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Virginia and Horace Sellers; her husband, J Newton Rayzor; her sister, Ann Traylor.

She is survived by two daughters; Selwyn Rayzor and her husband Rich Moses, Sallie Groves and her husband Cavan Groves, four grandchildren; Adair and Jack Moses, Betsy and Alice Cochran, two god-daughters; Marcee James and Kamee Cumbie, one nephew; Jim Traylor and two nieces: Angela Traylor Smith and Leigh Ann Traylor Kenney.

O God our Father, Creator of all the living,
we entrust to Your gentle care
all those we love who have gone before us;
and have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again. . . .

Eternal rest, grant unto Peggy Sellers Rayzor, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon her.

May the souls of the faithful departed
through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.