http://www.ellisvillefuneralhome.com/

Ellisville Funeral Home, 1204 Avenue B, Ellisville, MS (2025)

10/07/2025

Dr. Winfred Randolph Strickland, 91, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, long-time community college educator, administrator, and community servant passed away on October 5, 2025, surrounded by his family. He leaves a legacy that has inspired and touched countless lives.

Born on December 9, 1933, in Laurel, MS, Dr. Strickland, a native of Ellisville, graduated from Jones County Junior College in 1952. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Mississippi State University and both master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Southern Mississippi, specializing in science education and administration.

He is survived by his daughter Beverly Strickland Clark (Brock), his bonus son John Forde (Connie), grandchildren Lindsey Parker Deeks (Alex), Anna Strickland Patterson (Philip), Tyler Parker (Margaret), and Hayes Strickland (Abby), his bonus grandsons John David Forde (Sofia), and Daniel Forde (Laura); bonus family members Mark and Carol Lehman. He also leaves behind a loving legacy in his seven great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents Hannon and Delphine Strickland, his first wife of 36 years Carol Scott Strickland, his second wife of 22 years Anne Forde Strickland, and his son Donald Winfred Strickland, M.D.

He served two years in the U.S. Army in Europe and dedicated 44 years to education in Mississippi. Dr. Strickland spent 17 years at Copiah-Lincoln Community College as an instructor and chairman of the Mathematics and Science Division, followed by 27 years at Jones County Junior College, where he served as a chemistry instructor, Dean of Academic Affairs, and Vice President for Instructional Affairs. During his distinguished career, he also served as chairman of the Mississippi Academic Deans Association for two-year colleges.

Jones County Junior College was central to Dr. Strickland’s life. His father taught and coached there for 30 years, and he began traveling with the Bobcat basketball team in second grade, living on campus for several years, and later earning a degree. These experiences, along with his roles as instructor and administrator, reinforced Dr. Strickland’s belief in the value of a strong foundation provided by a two-year degree. To support deserving students, he established scholarships honoring the legacy of his parents, his son, his daughter, and himself. Both of his wives, former Jones College educators, have scholarships in their names, providing additional support for deserving students. Dr. Strickland was recognized as Jones County Junior College’s Alumnus of the Year in 2009.

He was a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Ellisville, where he faithfully served as a deacon, long-time Sunday School superintendent, and on numerous committees. A dedicated civic leader, he was a member of the Lions Club for 50 years, serving as president, and was well known for managing the JCJC basketball concessions for many decades. Dr. Strickland also served the City of Ellisville as chair of the Zoning Board and Jones County as financial manager of the Council on Aging.

Dr. Strickland will be fondly remembered for his devotion to his family, a lifelong passion for helping students find programs where they could truly succeed, his support for his faculty and students alike, his love for his grand pups (Louie, Bella, and Scooter), his habit of reading multiple newspapers cover to cover, his knack for quoting complete navigation routes, his encyclopedic knowledge of the weather, his loyal support of Bobcats sports, and his love for his alma mater Mississippi State.

A memorial service will be on Friday, October 10, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Ellisville, Mississippi. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Interment will follow the service at the Ellisville Cemetery. Bro. Robert Fennel will officiate. Pallbearers will be his grandsons Tyler Parker, Hayes Strickland, John David Forde, and Daniel Forde; his grandson-in-law Alex Deeks; and Wayne Folkes, who was like a son. Honorary pallbearers will be Dr. Ronald Whitehead, Dr. Billy Thames, Mr. Billy Folkes, and the Men’s Bible Class at First Baptist Church Ellisville.

The family thanks the staff at Biloxi VA Medical Center, and Keja Murphy and Terry Meyer, for their kindness and exceptional care.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorials be made to the Winfred Randolph Strickland Scholarship, Jones College Foundation, Inc., 900 South Court Street, Ellisville, MS 39437.

10/06/2025

Morris Moore Walters, 80, of Ovett, Mississippi, passed away on Sunday, October 5, 2025, in Ovett, Mississippi. Born on Tuesday, October 31, 1944, in Laurel, Mississippi, Morris was a beloved father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Morris served in Jones County Law Enforcement for 38 plus years. He also served in the Navy for 4 years during the Vietnam War. He was a faithful member of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church where he served as Treasurer for many years.

He is survived by his sons, Joseph Walters and his wife Shara, and James Walters and his wife Spring. He also leaves behind his brother, Johnny Walters and his wife Susan, and his cherished grandchildren, Elaina Walters Bates and her husband John, Sabrina Walters, Anslea Robinson and her husband Julian, and Reese Walters. Morris was also a proud great-grandfather to Elliott Fox Robinson. He will be fondly remembered by a host of nieces and nephews.

Morris was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Alfred Walters and Louetta Walters, as well as his brothers, Joe E. Walters, Sr., and Larry T. Walters.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 1:00 PM until 3:00 PM at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, located at 1164 Old Highway 15 South, Ellisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 PM at the same location, with burial in Mt. Moriah Baptist Church Cemetery. Bro. Ray Matthews will officiate the services, and arrangements are being handled by Ellisville Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will include Reese Walters, Julian Robinson, John Bates, Joe. E. Walters III, Josh Walters and Samuel Mitchell. Honorary pallbearers will be Men of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church. Friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.ellisvillefuneralhome.com.

10/01/2025

Vivian Ann Alsworth, 84, of Ellisville, MS, passed away peacefully at her residence on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. Born on April 2, 1941, in Yazoo City, Mississippi, Vivian lived a life full of love and dedication to her family.

She was Miss Jasper County 1959, valedictorian, graduated with an Associate in Arts degree from Jones County Junior College and worked at Sanderson Farms for nearly 45 years as an accountant. She enjoyed painting, camping and loved Mondays with her crochet group.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 55 years, Fred Edwin Alsworth, and her parents, Edward Lamar Trammell and Alice Mae Adams Trammell. Vivian is survived by her son, Alan Blane Alsworth and his wife Theresa. She also leaves behind her brother, Eddie Trammell and his wife Carolyn, and her sisters, Faye Livingston and Sandra Hillman with her husband Pat. Her legacy continues through her granddaughters, Ashten Leigh Wellman and her husband David, Hannah Grace Ponder and her husband Ben, and Sarah Renae Alsworth, as well as her great-grandchildren, Ember Renae Wellman, Benson Drew Ponder, and Beau Declan Ponder.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Ellisville Methodist Church in Ellisville, MS, with visitation starting at 1:00 PM. Burial will follow at Heidelberg Cemetery in Heidelberg, MS. The services will be officiated by Rev. Mark Anderson and David McGowin. Arrangements are being handled by Ellisville Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Ben Ponder, David Wellman, Sherman Livingston, James Livingston, Kelly Trammell, Kenny Reeves, and Colby Reeves.

Vivian will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and the love she shared with her family and friends. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

10/01/2025

FM Smith Jr., 83, of Laurel, passed away on September 29, 2025. Born on August 1, 1942, in Hattiesburg, He is now healed and in the arms of Jesus.

FM was preceded in death by his father, FM Smith Sr.; his mother, Louise Knight Fox; his sisters, Ginny Perrett and Sandra Sims.

He is survived by his wife, Sue Dudley Smith; his daughters, Amy Spencer and Kimberly Chisholm (Jonathan); His sister Denise Morgan (Steven); Grandchildren: Colin Spencer, Taylor Chisholm, Cameron Spencer, Kinsey Housley (Shane), Carsyn Spencer, and Cailey Spencer; Great grand-children, Westen Housley and Millie Housley.

He met his wife, Sue, at Hubs Bowling Lane in Hattiesburg. Four months later, they began their 58 year life journey where they welcomed, 2 daughters, 6 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren.

In his early life, he was an active member of The JCs, The Lion’s Club, and The MS broadcaster’s association. He also worked as a school board member for several years. He served in the Air National Guard for 6 years in his early life in the 60’s. FM was an integral part of WLAU in Laurel, MS for many years. His girls loved to listen to him DJ. He was also a State Senator for Mississippi from 1984-1988. He was a founding member of the Powers Volunteer Fire Department. Later in life, he began working at Morgan Brothers, for 20+ years before retiring to enjoy traveling with his wife.

FM loved motorcycles. He and Sue traveled many miles with their family and friends on their bike, and then later a jeep. They made countless memories with those that loved them like no other. FM and Sue were lovingly referred to as the King and Queen.

He loved his girls and all of his grandchildren. He had a special fondness for his 2 great grandchildren who affectionately called him Papoo.

He was an active member of Eastview Baptist Church and enjoyed hearing sermons by Thomas Montgomery.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025 from 5:00PM until 7:00PM at Ellisville Funeral Home in 1204 B Ave, Ellisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 03, 2025 at 11:00AM at Ellisville Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Eastview Baptist Church Cemetery in Laurel, Mississippi. Bro. Thomas Montgomery will officiate. Ellisville Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 601-477-3797.

Pall Bearers will be Colin Spencer, Cameron Spencer, Todd Braddock, Luke Morgan, Ben Morgan, and Shane Housley. Honorary Pall Bearers will be Jonathan Chisholm and Steven
Morgan.

09/30/2025

Rowdy James Wright, of Ovett, MS passed away Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. He was born Tuesday, September 23, 2025 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

Private Graveside service will be held at Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Ovett, MS. Burial will follow in Good Hope Baptist Church Cemetery in Ovett, MS. Bro. David Fedele will officiate. Ellisville Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 601-477-3797

Rowdy was preceded in death by his great grandfather John Prine Jr., great grandfather Craig Mills, and great grandmother Sue Mills.

Survivors include his father, John T. Wright of Ovett, MS; mother, Hannah Beech Wright of Ovett, MS. His brother John W. Wright and his sister Charlotte (Lottie) Wright.

An online guestbook may be signed at www.ellisvillefuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in memory of Rowdy to abelspeaks.org

09/30/2025

Leland Boyd Maxey entered this world June 27, 1958 and gained his angel wings in the early morning of September 26, 2025 surrounded by love. Leland, a lifelong resident of Ellisville, was one of a kind. He was an authentic man with a deep spiritual soul who loved his family and his Jesus without question. To his accolades, he was a master carpenter who could build a house from a twig! He knew more about the inner work of a Harley Davidson motorcycle than anyone. The miles he logged behind the handlebars are unreachable; too many to count. Little known secret about him- he was a great cook and actually enjoyed it!

He is preceded in death by his parents, R.B. Maxey, Jr and Willa Maxey Woods. Also, waiting on him in Heaven was his sweet sister Barbara (Bobbie) Allday, niece Roxanna Pitts, and friends that went ahead to make sure his Harley Davidson was ready to ride on those Golden Streets.

He leaves two grandchildren, Alexis Wade (doodlebug) and John Maxey (little John), who were his whole heart. Also, leaving behind is his daughter Leanne Maxey and son Brandon Williamson who both brought him life. His love for Susie was beyond compare, unmatched and placed together for a lifetime. He loved her dearly. Leland also leaves his sisters Freda Maxey Langley and Ann Maxey as well as a brother Johnny Maxey all from Ellisville. A host of nieces and nephews will also miss him.

Leland had many friends whom he had great respect and love for. A friendship with him meant no boundaries. A gracious shoutout to all his "ride or die". Ya'll were all his brothers in heart.

The family would like to thank the staff at Forest General Hospital for their care.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later time.

09/29/2025

Did you know that eligible veterans and their families may be entitled to significant funeral and burial benefits? These can include burial in a national cemetery, a grave marker, and military honors. Navigating these benefits can be complex, but we are here to assist veteran families in understanding and applying for the honors they deserve. Thank you for your service.

09/27/2025

Morrett Ellzey, 85, of Ellisville, MS, passed away peacefully at her residence on Saturday, September 27, 2025. Born on March 2, 1940, in Smith County, Mississippi, Morrett was a beloved member of her community and family.

She was a passionate lover of attending church and Gospel music and shared her talent by playing the piano for numerous Quartets. Morrett cherished her family deeply and found joy in working on the farm, being outdoors, and gardening. She took immense pride in her yard and flowers.

Morrett finished Southern MS with a BS Degree in Education and a former teacher at Moselle Elementary.

Morrett is survived by her devoted husband of 66 years, Danny Ellzey, and her sons, Rod Ellzey and Randy Ellzey. She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Lori Dansby (Tommy), Johna Hill (Forest), and Rachel Dixon (Brad), as well as her great-grandchildren, Rutley Dixon, Liam Dansby, Forest Hill, Larsyn Dansby, Wyler Hill, Lane Dixon, and John Beckett Hill.

She was preceded in death by her father, A.T. Bassett, her mother, Sue Smith Bassett, and her sister, Lona Bassett.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025, at Ellisville Funeral Home, with visitation from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM, followed by the service at 2:30 PM. Burial will take place at Ellzey Family Cemetery in Ellisville, MS. Bro. Cecil Hathorn will officiate the services.

Pallbearers will include Forest Hill, Tommy Dansby, Joe Ellzey, Jason Ellzey, Joel Ellzey, and Colby Ellzey, with Brad Dixon serving as an honorary pallbearer.

Arrangements are under the care of Ellisville Funeral Home, and an online guestbook is available at www.ellisvillefuneralhome.com.

09/26/2025

Lydia Lucille Bradley, 71, of Ovett, Mississippi, passed away peacefully at her daughter’s residence on Thursday, September 25, 2025. Born on March 30, 1954, in Carson, Mississippi, Lydia was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 23 years, Brian Kent Bradley; her son, James C. Broome and his wife Andrea; her daughters, Melissa Robbins and her husband Rodney, and Stephanie Peterson and her husband David. Lydia was a cherished grandmother to Emily Peterson, Stephen Peterson, Calley Dunaway and her husband Bryson, Cody Robbins, Camryn Robbins, Graham Broome, Anna Broome, Natasha Findley, and Bernard Findley and his wife Sarah. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Beau Dunaway, Everly Findley, and Levi Findley. Lydia is also survived by her brother, Steve Garner.

She was preceded in death by her son, Anthony Bradley; her parents, S.J. Garner and Sarah Hartzog Garner; her brother, Charles Garner; her sisters, Patricia Ross and Mary Daley; and her grandchild, Phillip Peterson.

Visitation will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025, from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Ellisville Funeral Home, located at 1204 B Ave, Ellisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will take place on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the same location, with Pastor. David Peterson officiating. Burial will follow in Beech Cemetery in Ovett, Mississippi. Pallbearers will include Cody Robbins, Stephen Peterson, Graham Broome, Bryson Dunaway, Bernard Findley, and Bronner James, with honorary pallbearers Harold Beech, Kelton Rowell, Timmy Eakes, and Shaun Padilla.

Friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.ellisvillefuneralhome.com.

09/24/2025

Mila Lou Locklear, of Memphis, TN passed away Sunday, September 21, 2025 at Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women in Memphis, Tennessee. She was born Sunday, September 21, 2025 in Memphis, Tennessee.

Private family funeral services will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025 at 11:00AM. Burial will follow. Bro. Jim Woodyear and Bro. Micah Husser will officiate. Ellisville Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 601-477-3797.

Survivors include her father, Jason Cade Locklear; mother, Gina Chavez Locklear; grandparents, Jason Locklear; Kendra and Richie Dearman and Enrique Broncales Perez and Silvia Moya Chavez; aunts, Dallas Flowers and Megan Dearman (Sean); uncles, Alex Broncales, Chad Locklear (Sophia), Zach Dearman (Lexi) and Logan Dearman.

An online guestbook may be signed at www.ellisvillefuneralhome.com

09/23/2025

Mertice Marie Lee, 71, of Ovett, MS, passed away on Monday, September 22, 2025, at South Central Regional Medical Center in Laurel, MS. Born on August 17, 1954, in Laurel, Mississippi, Mertice was a beloved member of her community.

Marie worked at Shirley’s Discount for many years, Masonite and Ellisville State School.

She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Butler and her husband Barney; her brother, Henry Lee and his wife Mary Lee; her grandchildren, Grant Butler, Annabella Butler, Elise Butler, and Isaac Butler; her nephew, Sean Lee and his wife Beth; her niece, Stephanie Long and her husband Troy; as well as four great nephews and four great nieces.

Mertice was preceded in death by her father, Harold Freelan Lee, and her mother, Mertice McLain Lee.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM at Mt. Olive United Methodist Church in Ovett, MS. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 PM at the same location, with Bro. Troy Long officiating. Burial will take place in Mt. Olive Methodist Church Cemetery in Ovett, Mississippi. Ellisville Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Pallbearers will include Sean Lee, Brandon Lee, Alex Lee, Larry Weeks, Grant Butler, and Isaac Butler.

Friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.ellisvillefuneralhome.com.

Ellisville Funeral Home

10/07/2025

10/06/2025

10/01/2025

10/01/2025

09/30/2025

09/30/2025

09/29/2025

09/27/2025

09/26/2025

09/24/2025

09/23/2025

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Practice

Shortcuts

Share

Category