Parker Memorial Funeral Homes Inc. Bruce - Vardaman, MS.

04/07/2026

Frankie Paul Ward

Frankie Paul Ward was born July 8, 1947 in Bruce, MS to Truman McDonald Ward and Mary Woodruff Ward Bryant. He departed his life on earth January 9, 2026 at St. Francis Hospital, Park Ave., Memphis, TN of complications due to cancer. He was a resident of Slate Springs, MS and Munford, TN.

After growing up and attending school in Vardaman and Calhoun City, Paul joined the Navy in April 1966. He retired January 30, 1986 as a Chief Petty Officer E7 Machinist Mate after serving 20 years. During his Navy career he was stationed in many bases including 2 1⁄2 years in Rota, Spain, Long Beach, CA, Mayport, FL, Millington, TN, and Norfork, VA. He served on many ships including USS Picking DD-685, USS Hollister DD-788, USS Topeka CLG-8, USS Canopus AS-34, USS Mount Whitney LLC-20, USS Yellowstone AD-41.

After retiring he co-owned and operated a landscaping and tree moving business in Virginia before relocating to the Dallas, TX area. There he worked for Pinnacle Group Property Management Company overseeing over a 300-unit apartment complex. Then he worked for L3 Harris Aerospace & Defense Technology Company in Greenville, TX.

In 2018 he relocated back to his beloved Mississippi, buying a home in Slate Springs. There he loved working on his land with his many “boy toys” until his health failed him.

Paul had a passion for fishing and hunting, belonging to several Bass Fishing Clubs and Deer Hunting Clubs during his lifetime. He had quite a collection of guns and found pleasure in gifting them to his buddies. He loved to cook and could grill up some mighty fine meats.

In 2021 he married the love of his life for 40 years, Nancy Sutphin Miller of Munford, TN. where they shared their time between there and Slate Springs.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife of 4 years, Nancy Ward, his daughter Teresa (Jeff) McNeil of Greenville, TX; 3 grandchildren:Jeffery McNeil of Raleigh, NC, Jimi McNeil of Alden, PA and Becca McNeil of San Marcos, TX; 6 sisters: Pam (Eddie) Helms of Slate Springs, MS, Dianne Daniel (Jan Pannell) of Millington, TN, Jackie (Kevin) Stone of Calhoun City, MS, Rita Willis of Calhoun City, MS, Susie (Kevin) Devine of Kenosha, WI, Kay Fridley of Grenada Hills, CA; 2 brothers: David (Martha) Ward of Memphis, TN, Phil (Patty) Ward of The Colony, TX : the mother of his daughter and lifelong friend, Rebecca Grass of Rockwall, TX and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, Mary Bryant and Truman Ward and a brother: Jeffery Ward of Kenosha, WI. There will be a catered Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 16, 2026 from 2 until 5 pm at Macedonia Baptist Church in Calhoun City, MS for all family and friends.

"I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge - that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3:16-19

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04/06/2026

Elizabeth Anne Morgan

Elizabeth Anne Morgan, lovingly known as "Miss Anne," passed away at her home on April 5, 2026, at the age of 85. She was born on November 15, 1940, in Derma, Mississippi, and spent her later years in Vardaman, where she created a warm and loving home for her family. Anne married the love of her life, Howard Morgan, in 1958, and together they shared 52 devoted years of marriage until his passing in 2010. Their union was a testament to enduring love, commitment, and faith.

Anne was a dedicated homemaker and a talented beautician. She had a special way of bringing people together, often cooking hearty meals not only for her beloved family but also for the farmhands. Her warm smile and loving nature were the hallmarks of her character. Anne cherished her coffee breaks and looked forward to her weekly hair appointments every Friday, that brought her joy and connection to her community.

Anne found great joy in life, especially in the time she spent with her beloved grandchildren. She was a constant and encouraging presence in their lives, faithfully attending countless sporting events, school plays, dance recitals, pageants, and any activity in which they were involved. Her unwavering support and pride in her family were evident to all who knew her. Anne's compassion extended beyond her family; she frequently visited the sick and shut-in, bringing comfort and cheer to those in need. Anne was well-loved and will be missed deeply by all who knew her.

Anne was also known for her timeless elegance and attention to detail. She was always beautifully put together-never a hair out of place and her makeup just right. Yet beyond her outward appearance, it was her inner beauty that truly defined her. She will be remembered as a woman of kindness, warmth, and grace-a beautiful soul, both inside and out.

A devoted woman of faith, Anne was a longtime and faithful member of New Liberty Baptist Church, where she cherished her church family and lived out her beliefs with grace and dedication.

Anne is survived by her three children: Millette (Lee) Nabors of Houston, MS, Melissa (Joe) Edmondson of Vardaman, MS, and Tony Morgan of Vardaman, MS. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren-Brandi (Shaun) Parker, Trent (Lauren) Edmondson, Cody (Lindsey) Edmondson, Deidra (Steven) Thrasher, T. J. (Ashley) Morgan, Brennan (Anna Leise) Pugh, Grady Nabors, Harley Nabors, Greer Nabors, and Tucker Nabors-and her great-grandchildren, whom she adored: Ethan, Grant, and Luke Parker; Lizzy, Collier, Jase, and Grey Edmondson; Hardin, Hudson, and Hensley Thrasher; Collins Morgan; and Brody, Brooks, and Morgan Pugh. Along with her special nieces Margery Woodley and Mona Bowman.

Funeral services will be held at New Liberty Baptist Church on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, with a public viewing from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. The service will commence at 3:00 PM with Bro. Michael Baker and Bro. Jeff Harmon officiating, followed by burial at Midway Cemetery in Vardaman, MS. Anne's grandsons will serve as pallbearers: Trent Edmondson, Cody Edmondson, T. J. Morgan, Brennan Pugh, Grady Nabors, Harley Nabors, Greer Nabors, and Tucker Nabors.

The family expresses a special thank you to Gentiva Hospice Care for their compassion, care, and love shown to Miss Ann during her final days.

As a gesture of gratitude and remembrance, the family will honor Anne's end-of-life caregivers and nurses as honorary pallbearers: Lou Mounger, Daisy Williams, Della Stovall, Liz Blanch, Lisa Brown, Linda Daniels, Stephanie Wright, Tracy Fugett, and Jenna Beth Myers.

Anne was preceded in death by her husband, Howard Wilson Morgan; son, Howard Kevin Morgan; father, Joseph Grady Barton; mother, Rena Mae Harrelson Barton; and sister, Laquita Stewart.

In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations be made to New Liberty Baptist Church Building Fund and Midway Baptist Church Cemetery Fund.

New Liberty Baptist Church Building Fund

75 CR 440 Vardaman, MS 38878

Midway Baptist Church Cemetery Fund

C/O Bobby Inman

P.O. Box 72 Vardaman, MS 38878

The Staff of Parker Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the Morgan family as they begin this new season of life. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn the loss of their loved one.

View Elizabeth Anne Morgan's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/02/2026

Phyllis Lynn Patterson

Phyllis Lynn Patterson, born on December 13, 1957, in Pontotoc, Mississippi, passed away at her home on April 1, 2026, at the age of 68. She was a resident of Houlka, Mississippi, where she lived a life filled with love and happiness.

Phyllis was married to her beloved husband, Scott Patterson, for 16 years, sharing a life rich with cherished memories and experiences. She found joy in the simple pleasures, particularly working in her yard and cultivating her love for flowers.

Phyllis is survived by her husband, Joseph Scott Patterson; mother, Marjorie Reeves Cox of Pontotoc, MS; sister, Sandy (Glenn) William of Madison, AL; and her grandchildren, Austin Timmons and Gage Linley.

A public viewing will be held at Parker Memorial Funeral Home in Bruce, MS on Thursday, April 2, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, allowing family and friends to pay their respects. A funeral service will take place on Friday, April 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM, in the Parker Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. James Taylor officiating. Phyllis will be laid to rest at Poplar Springs Cemetery in Vardaman, Mississippi following the service.

Serving as pallbearers are "Fred" Clark, James Edward, Bent Foster, Rick Foster, Stan Mize, and Paul Patterson. Honorary pallbearers are Bob Brown, Chris Foster, Rickey Russell, and Pete Weldon.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her father, Zane Victor Cox; her daughter, Brandi Colburn; and her brother, Gary Cox.

The Staff of Parker Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the Patterson family as they begin this new season of life. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn the loss of their loved one.

03/31/2026

James Lynn Bennett

James Lynn Bennett, a devoted family man and respected member of the community, passed away on March 26, 2026, at his home in Southaven, Mississippi at the age of 71, just days shy of his 52nd wedding anniversary with his devoted wife, Sharon Bennett and his children, grandchildren, and a nephew. He was born on May 6, 1954, in Memphis, Tennessee, and graduated from Messick High School in 1972.��

James was owner/operator of Bear Enterprises, Inc. as an independent contractor for FedEX Ground before retiring in April of 2020 after a successful career, where he exemplified diligence and dedication. His work ethic was unparalleled, having developed skills in welding and the trucking industry early on while working alongside his father. He took immense pride in everything he did, always prioritizing safety for himself and those around him, both in work and in family life.��

Outside of work, James was an enthusiastic hunter especially of deer and elk as well as a fisherman. He began hunting in his youth and was a proud member of the Stumpy Point Hunting Club in Arkansas with his dad. His love for the outdoors led to the purchase of land for his hunting trailer at the Scuna Hunting Club in Coffeeville, Mississippi, where he spent many cherished days enjoying nature and bonding with family and friends. Known for his infectious laugh and knack for conversation, he welcomed everyone with open arms, making all feel valued and included.��

James is survived by his loving wife, Sharon Annette Bryan Bennett, whom he married on April 5, 1974, marking a remarkable partnership that lasted over half a century. He is also survived by his daughter, Cheryl Anne Martin of Hernando, MS; son, James (Lindsay) David Bennett II of Coldwater, MS; and his cherished grandchildren, Brody Alexander Martin, Abbigail Grace Martin, and Everett James Bennett. James's dedication to family was evident in everything he did, and he cherished every moment spent with them.��

A public viewing will be held at the Parker Memorial Funeral Home in Bruce, Mississippi, on April 3, 2026, starting at 1:00 pm, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 pm in the chapel of Parker Memorial Funeral Home. James will be laid to rest at Pittsboro Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers are James David Bennett II, Brody Martin, Charles Day, Charlie Day, Arthur Goss, and Neil Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be George Bardo and Terry Jones.��

James Lynn Bennett will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of kindness, commitment to family, and passion for life will continue to inspire those who were fortunate to have him in their lives.��

James was preceded in death by his father, James David Bennett; mother, Mabel Virginia Hicks Bennett; sisters, Sara Virginia Bennett, Vickie Dianne Goss, and Patsy Kay Bennett.

The Staff of Parker Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the Bennett family as they begin this new season of life. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn the loss of their loved one.

View James Lynn Bennett's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/30/2026

Teresa Ann Waigand

Teresa Ann Waigand, age 56, of Banner, Mississippi, passed away on March 28, 2026. Born on January 25, 1970, in Wisconsin.

Teresa enjoyed knitting, artwork, and creating beautiful picture collages that captured the moments that mattered most and attended church at Faith Baptist Church.

Teresa is survived by husband, Norman Dennis Stone; her children, Augustin "Tony" (Stephanie) Delgado of Derma, MS, Jeovoni Delgado of Banner, MS, Jeremy Mirando of Chicago, IL, and Rebecca Mateer of Chicago, IL; her brother, Carl Waigand of Houston, TX; and 15 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, all of whom were a source of immense pride and joy in her life.

At this time there is no services scheduled; arrangements will be announced by the family at a later time.

Teresa was preceded in death by her mother, Juanita Bun Waigand; son, Hector Alberto Rodriguez; sister, Carol Lebreezie; and brother, Michael Mills.

The Staff of Parker Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the Waigand family as they begin this new season of life. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn the loss of their loved one.

View Teresa Ann Waigand's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/30/2026

Jo Ann Denley

Jo Ann Denley, longtime managing editor of The Calhoun County Journal, passed away Sunday, March 29 at Baptist Hospital in Oxford.

Visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, April 1 at 1 p.m. with the funeral service to follow at 3 p.m. at Parker Memorial Funeral Home in Bruce. Burial will take place in Bruce Cemetery with Don Ball, Mac Burnett, Scott Dunn, Dr. Bruce Longest, Robert Edward Oakley, and Phillip Talford serving as pallbearers. Members of the Bruce Rotary Club will be serving as honorary pallbearers.

Denley was born Aug. 29, 1935 in Louisville, Ms., the daughter of Milton Irvin Scott and Myrtle Higgason Scott. She was raised in Macon, Ms. She graduated from Macon High School, Wood College and the University of Mississippi with a BAE.

She was married for 53 years to the late S. Gale Denley, Associate Professor of Journalism and Director of the Student Media Center at the University of Mississippi. They were the parents of three daughters - Celia, Lisa and Deanna. She worked for decades as a reporter, news editor, and photographer for The Calhoun County Journal - a family-owned newspaper.

She was a member of the Bruce Rotary Club for more than 30 years during which time she earned numerous Paul Harris Fellow honors. She was the first woman admitted in the Rotary District 6800 consisting of more than 42 clubs spanning North Mississippi and the Memphis area. She served as district governor for two years.

Jo Ann served on the board of directors for Sanctuary Hospice House in Tupelo, and was a longtime officer with the Friends of the Library at Jesse Yancy Memorial Library in Bruce. She also served as building committee chairperson for the library in 1970.

She was a past member of the New Century Club of Bruce where she was named Club Member of the Year among three MFWC clubs, and also served a term as state MFWC secretary.

She received numerous community service awards from Daughters of the American Revolution, the Bruce Chamber of Commerce and was named Bruce Citizen of the Year in 2016, and was grand marshal of the Bruce Christmas Parade in 2017.

She was a former judge and speaker at the University of Mississippi High School Press Institute, and served on the board of directors with M&F Bank in Bruce. She was a past president of Wood College Alumni Association and was honored as Wood College Alumnus of the Year with her husband.

Jo Ann taught school at Toccopola in Pontotoc County for one year and two years at the Adult Education Center in Bruce. She was a longtime member of Bruce United Methodist Church and Calhoun County Community Choir.

She is survived by daughters Celia Hillhouse (Lanny) of Bruce, and Deanna Clements (Randy) of Tuscaloosa; grandchildren - Colby Hillhouse, Abby Rea (Sam), Marshall Bailey (Whitney), all of Bruce; Jo Ellen Bailey, of Germantown, Tenn.; Zachary Adams (Kaitlin), of St. Louis; Samantha Scott (Parker), of Birmingham; and Eli Adams, of Tuscaloosa, and great grandchildren - Addi Claire Bailey, Ellie Kathryn Bailey, Jack Marshall Bailey, Jackson Hillhouse, Will Hillhouse, and Lainy Rea, all of Bruce. She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Kathryn (Billie) Baker, her husband Gale Denley, and daughter Lisa McNeece.

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03/26/2026

Emma Jean Taylor

Emma Jean Taylor, a beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, at the age of 84 In North Mississippi Medical Center of Tupelo. Born on July 19, 1941, in Potlockney, MS, she gracefully embraced a life filled with love and service, leaving behind a legacy that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

Jean was a proud member of the Bruce High School Class of 1959 before pursuing her passion for healthcare at the University of Mississippi School of Radiology. For over 40 years, she dedicated herself to her role as a Registered Radiological Technologist, serving the community at Lafayette County Hospital and later at Baptist Memorial Hospital. Her expertise extended to mammography at the Baptist Diagnostic Center, where she provided compassionate care to countless patients.

A devoted member of Anchor Baptist Church, Jean found joy in singing and worshiping alongside her church family. Her faith was a fundamental part of her identity, and she treasured the bonds she formed within her church community. Beyond her unwavering dedication to her family and profession, Emma had a deep love for cooking, fishing, and engaging in spirited games of dominos and cards with her friends.

Jean will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Glenda (Larry) McCullough of Water Valley, MS, her son Kenneth (Susan) Taylor of Holly Springs, MS, and her sister Dee Murphree of Pontotoc, MS, She was a proud grandmother to Jessica (Jonathan) Stegall, Matthew Taylor, Kellen Taylor, and Kingston Taylor, and she cherished her role as a great-grandmother to Hoyt Lawrence, Dean Pryor, Stabler Stegall, Tate Stegall, and Ranger Stegall. Each of them held a special place in her heart, and her legacy will continue through their lives.

Funeral services will take place on March 28, 2026, at Anchor Baptist Church. A public viewing will be held at 1:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM with Bro. Gerald Shook officiating. After the service, she will be laid to rest in Anchor Cemetery, where her memory will be honored. Hoyt Lawrence, Larry McCullough, Jonathan Stegall, Stabler Stegall, Kenny Taylor, and Matthew Taylor will be serving as pallbearers. Tate Stegall and Kingston Taylor will be serving as honorary pallbearers.

As we celebrate the life of Emma Jean Taylor, we reflect on the incredible impact she made through her kindness, her faith, and her unyielding love for her family and friends. She will be missed dearly, but her spirit will carry on in the stories we share and the love we continue to hold for her.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Taylor, father, Hubert Tramel, mother, Burnie Clifton Tramel, grandchild, Michael Taylor, brother, James Richard Tramel, sisters, Helen Pegues, Fran Murphree, Ann Jenkins, and Doris Harmon.

The Staff of Parker Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the Taylor family as they begin this new season of life. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn the loss of their loved one.

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03/24/2026

Miss Greyson McCoy Westberry

Miss Greyson McCoy Westberry, a beloved young soul, passed away on March 21, 2026, at the tender age of six. Born on August 12, 2019, in Rankin County, Mississippi, Greyson lived most of her brief yet cherished life in Polkville, Mississippi. Her presence was a bright light in her family and community, and she is deeply mourned by all who knew her.

Greyson was a lively and joyful child, attended Raleigh Elementary School in Raleigh, Mississippi, and was an active member of Pinelake Church. She found delight in dancing and playing t-ball, and her fondness for frog catching was well known among family and friends. Above all, she loved her family deeply, especially her dear brother known affectionately as Bubby.

Her passing on Hwy 18 in Raleigh, Mississippi, marks a profound loss for her family and all who loved her. She leaves behind her devoted parents, Austin and Mackenzie Westberry; her brother, Layne “Bubby” Westberry; and her maternal grandparents, Stacie Mitchell (Pop). Walter Mitchell (Nell); her maternal great-grandparents, and her paternal grandparents, Chris and Nonnie Westberry, along with Dawn Smith, her paternal grandmother; Helen Gray, a great-great-grandmother; and Judy Conn, a great-grandmother. She is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends who held her dear.

Miss Greyson McCoy Westberry was preceded in death by her paternal grandfathers, Randy Westberry and Danny Purvis; her paternal grandmother, Jackie Smith; her maternal grandmother, Mavis Orr; and her paternal great-grandmother, Mary Purvis.

A visitation will be held on March 26, 2026, from 12:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. at Wolf Funeral Services, 3054 Hwy 80 West, Morton, MS 39117. The funeral service will follow later that day at 5:00 p.m. at Wolf Funeral Services in Morton. There will be no interment service.

Though her years were few, Greyson’s spirit and the memories she leaves will endure in the hearts of her family and community. She will be lovingly remembered for her vibrant spirit, infectious joy, and the unconditional love she shared so freely. The family extends their gratitude to all who have offered support and comfort during this difficult time.

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03/20/2026

Mary Maher Doss

Mary Maher Doss, beloved wife, devoted mother, and cherished grandmother, passed away at her home in Bruce, MS, on March 20, 2026, at the age of 67. Born on December 6, 1958, in Somerville, TN, Mary spent her life serving others and nurturing her family. She was a proud Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with over 36 years in the healthcare industry, having completed her nursing education in 1977 in Somerville, TN, before moving to Bruce, MS in 1979.

Mary's legacy extends beyond her professional accomplishments. She was a woman of many talents, enjoying sewing, quilting, woodworking, fishing, and baking delicious apple pies. Her artistic side shone through her drawings, and she had a passion for genealogy, often spending time in cemeteries photographing headstones to preserve family history. A loving wife, Mary enjoyed countless fishing trips with her husband, Ernie, often playfully competing to see who could catch the most fish.

Among her fondest memories were the joyful smells of Christmas at her parents' home, playing in the snow with her children, and the early-morning fishing excursions with Ernie.

Mary is survived by her loving husband, Ernie Doss; her daughters, Jennifer Carwile of Oxford, MS and Alice Bagwell of Vardaman, MS her sons, Benjamin Bagwell of Oxford, MS and Andrew (Camilla) Bagwell of Bruce, MS; her sisters, Billie Taylor of Olive Branch, MS, Patsy (Tom) Franks of Oakland, TN, Kathy (Ben) Clutts of Oakland, TN, Barbara (Jim) Miller of Whiteville, TN; her brother, Edward Maher, Jr. of Somerville, TN; and her cherished grandchildren, Amber McGreger, Christian McGreger, Rose Bagwell, Sara Bagwell, Jacob Bagwell, and Elizabeth Carwile.

A funeral service in honor of Mary will be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church in Bruce, MS, Bro. Brian Wells and Bro. Joey Hamilton will be officiating. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a public viewing at the church from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM that same day. Following the service, Mary will be laid to rest at Ivy Cemetery in Bruce, MS.

Serving as pallbearers will be Kevin Chrestman, Devin Garner, Corey Griffin, Joey Murphree, Kimmy Murphree, Jeremy Romine, and Willie Wells. Honorary pallbearers are Davy Doss, Glenn Doss, Heath Franklin, and Jimmy Franklin.

Mary was preceded in death by her father, Edward Anthony Maher Sr. and mother, Geraldine Agnes German Maher.

The Staff of Parker Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the Doss family as they begin this new season of life. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn the loss of their loved one.

View Mary Mahner Doss's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/17/2026

Andrew Hollis Edwards Jr.

Andrew Hollis Edwards Jr., 89, of Banner, MS, passed away Monday, March 16, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories, enduring friendships and a loving family that he held dear.

Andy was born November 5, 1936, in Oxford, MS, the third child to Andrew Hollis Edwards and Clarice Smith Edwards of Banner. He graduated from Bruce High School in 1954, attended the University of Mississippi, and later joined the United States Navy from 1958-1962. He attained the rank of Petty Officer Second Class and served as a helicopter crewman for Air/Sea Rescue aboard the USS Lake Champlain(CV-39). He was honorably discharged on August 24, 1962, and returned to Banner, Mississippi.

Mr. Edwards owned a sawmill and gravel pit in Carroll County, MS, and later, spent many years as a bulldozer owner/operator, involved in land-clearing in Mississippi and Tennessee. He was an outdoorsman, and especially enjoyed duck hunting in the McIntyre Scatters and Skuna River Bottom. He "often left before daylight to be in the duck blind when the first duck dropped from the sky to the decoys". Along with his father, brother, son and nephews, he traveled to the Great Lakes each fall to hunt ruffed grouse. He was an avid crappie fisherman, and spent many days with Glenda and friends, boating and wading around Grenada Lake, during the spawning season. He was a lifelong Ole Miss Rebel fan, and enjoyed watching games, as well as, reminiscing about great games of the past. He was a voracious reader of US military history and politics, reading so many books on WWII and the Civil War, that it was hard to find something that he had not read.

He will be remembered for his love of his family, friends and animal companions, his stories and wry sense of humor. Andy was a member of Banner Baptist Church and the American Legion.

He is survived by his son, Andrew Hollis Edwards III (Rachelle) of Banner, and daughter, Elizabeth Edwards Tackett of Greenwood; grandchildren, John Hollis Tackett and Sumner Tackett of Greenwood, Jesse Gilliland (Shawn) of Oxford, and Andi Claire Edwards of Banner; great grandson, Thomas Aiden Gilliland of Oxford; his former wives, Glenda Edwards of Banner (caregiver), and Nancy Edwards Tharp of Oxford; brother-in-law Walter M. Wilkinson of Memphis, TN; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Clarice Edwards, brother, Elwood Edwards, sister, Jeanette Edwards Wilkinson, and son-in-law, Jeff Crowder.

Serving as pallbearers will be John Edwards, Paul Edwards, John Hollis Tackett, Sumner Tackett, Tony Raly, Edwin Baker, Ted Camp, Jeff Poynor, Carlton Leachman and Lynn Stewart. Honorary pallbearers will be Wade Boyle, Wesley Crawford and Glenda Edwards.

Funeral services will be held in honor of Mr. Edwards on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at Parker Memorial Funeral Home in Bruce, MS. Visitation will be held from 12pm to 2pm, with services immediately following at 2 pm with Bro. Brian Wells officiating. Internment will follow at Stewart Cemetery in Banner.

The family requests that memorials be made to Ducks Unlimited, local animal shelter/rescue, or a charity of the donor's choice.

Dog Lover's League

135 Easley Ave.

Bruce, MS 38915

The Staff of Parker Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the Edwards family as they begin this new season of life. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn the loss of their loved one.

View Andrew Hollis Edwards Jr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/12/2026

Jerry Paul Adkins

Jerry Paul Adkins of Memphis, TN, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, at St. Francis Hospital in Bartlett, TN, at the age of 82. Jerry was the son of Howard and Eula Adkins. He was born on August 25, 1943, in Bruce, Mississippi.

Jerry attended Memphis Technical High School and graduated with the class of 1961. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army for two years, demonstrating unwavering dedication and commitment to his service. Following his time in the military, Jerry worked as a machinist at a printing company, bringing skill and craftsmanship to his trade. In his spare time, Jerry enjoyed fishing and enjoying the peace of the outdoors.

He is survived by his sister, Brenda Adkins Morris, along with a host of nieces and nephews. Jerry will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

A graveside service will be held in his honor at Pittsboro Cemetery on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 2:00 PM with Jerry's nephew, Douglas Morris, officiating. Friends and family are invited to come together to celebrate his life and share memories during this time of remembrance.

Jerry was preceded in death by his father, Howard Samuel Adkins; his mother, Eula Kathleen Killough Adkins; and his brother, Samuel Richard Adkins.

The Staff of Parker Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the Adkins family as they begin this new season of life. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn the loss of their loved one.

View Jerry Adkins's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.