Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home and Crematory

02/26/2026

Mary Lou Bullard

Mary Lou Taylor Bullard (Mrs. J. Wade) White Springs, Florida

Mary Lou Taylor Bullard, 92, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Lake City, Florida, following a lengthy illness.

Mrs. Bullard was the eldest of six children born to the late Boman and Annie Taylor, Live Oak, Florida. She attended public schools in Live Oak and graduated from Suwannee High School, Class of 1952. At the end of 1952, she enlisted in the United States Air Force and proudly served her country for over two years

In 1956, she married the late J. Wade Bullard, a prominent farmer and timber businessman, White Springs, Florida. They were married 37 years until Mr. Bullard's demise in 1993. To this union was born two sons, Johnny Bullard , White Springs, Florida, and Jerry Lawrence Bullard, ( Amanda), Lake City.

Mrs. Bullard was employed for over twenty years at the White Springs Public Library. She also substituted for over 20 years in Hamilton County's Public Schools.

She was a longtime member of First Baptist Church, White Springs, Florida, where she faithfully served in many capacities.

For the past several years, she attended, White Springs Methodist Church.

An excellent Southern cook, Mrs. Bullard enjoyed sharing many of her culinary dishes with others. She was famous for her pecan pies, red velvet cake, and turkey and dressing.

She served on the Hamilton County Industrial Development Authority Board for a number of years, the Stephen Foster Citizens Support Organization, and the White Springs Special Events Committee. She was an avid Florida Gator Fan, and she and her husband attended many Gator Games and were season ticket holders beginning in 1962.

In addition to her sons and daughter in law, she is survived by one granddaughter, Laura Leigh Bullard, Jacksonville, Florida J, three sisters, Margaret Wooley, Live Oak, and Jeannie Wilson and Annette Bullard, Ormond Beach, as well as one brother, Jerry Taylor, Live Oak She was preceded in death by a brother, Bill Taylor, Phoenix, Arizona.

A number of other relatives and friends survive.

The family wishes to express appreciation for the many kind expressions of sympathy. God Bless you. Special thanks to the staff of the VA Medical Center, Lake City, Florida, as well as the staff of Gateway Forest Lawn Funeral Home staff, Lake City.

A private graveside service for Mrs. Bullard will be held at historic Prospect Primitive Baptist Cemetery, Hamilton County at a later date. There will be no visitation.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to White Springs Methodist Church, PO Box 204, White Springs, FL. 32096, or Stephen Foster Citizens Support Organization, PO Box 666, White Springs, Florida 32096.

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02/26/2026

Robert Joseph Lewis

Robert Joseph "Bob" Lewis, age 78, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026, in High Springs, Florida. Born on December 21, 1947, in Miami, Florida, Bob lived a life full of dedication to his family and his work.

Bob spent over five decades working in the elevator industry, a career that showcased his commitment and amazing work ethic. He was also in the U.S. Army National Guard, demonstrating his sense of duty and service.

Bob was a devoted husband to Linda Lewis of Lake City, Florida. Their marriage of over 54 years was a testament to their enduring love and partnership. Together, they built a life centered around their family. Bob was an incredible father to his son Greg Lewis (Jen) of Middleburg, Florida, and his daughter, Diane Vaala (Dane) of Lake City, Florida. His children were the pride of his life, and he always prioritized their well-being with unwavering love and support.

As a grandfather, Bob cherished his three grandchildren—Colton Vaala, Everly Vaala, and Kaylee Lewis—who brought immense joy to his life. His love for them was boundless and evident in every moment he spent with them. He is also survived by his brother, Donald Lewis of Opelika, Alabama.

Bob had a passion for cars and guns that reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship and precision. These hobbies brought him great joy throughout his life. Beyond his interests, Bob will be remembered for his generous spirit and kind heart. Those fortunate enough to know him were often amazed by his willingness to help others without hesitation. He was the type of person who would give you the shirt off his back—even if it meant going without himself.

Bob's legacy is one of love, selflessness, and devotion to those he held dear. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

May Bob rest in peace as those who loved him find comfort in the memories they shared together.

A Visitation will be held on February 28, 2026, from 1 pm to 2 pm at Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home: 3596 South Highway 441, Lake City, FL 32025.

Funeral Service will follow at 2 pm. At Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Lake City, FL.

02/24/2026

John Leo Ellison

John Leo Ellison, Sr., age 81 of Lake City, passed away on Monday, February 23, 2026 at his home. Mr. Ellison was an only child to the late John Oliver Ellison and Essie Mae Ellison. He had lived most of his life in Lake City and retired from PCS in White Springs with 32 years of employment. Following his retirement, Mr. Ellison worked as a crossing guard with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office at Hwy 90 and Old Country Club Road where he loved seeing the smiling faces of the kids. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his son-in-law, Phillip Flint; and his beloved dog “Red”, whom he referred to as his children’s baby brother.

Survivors include his children, Rosemary Taylor (Allen), Loretta Lynn Flint and Johnny Ellison all of Lake City; son Ronald Lee of Arkansas; his cousin, Autra Ellison of Cross City; 4 grandchildren including Justin Porter of Lake City and Jay Porter (Caley) of Jacksonville; and seven great-grandchildren including, Emma, Grantham, Landry and Stetson of Jacksonville.

Graveside funeral services for Mr. Ellison will be conducted on Monday, March 2,2026 at 3:00 PM at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens with his grandson, Pastor Jay Porter officiating. Interment will follow.

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02/24/2026

Aubrey "Ace" Woodrow Sumter

Aubrey W. “Ace” Sumter, 83 of Ormond Beach, Florida, died on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at the Reflections Memory Care of Port Orange. He was born in Deming, New Mexico to the late Eugene and Ardelle Peevy Sumter. Mr. Sumter served in the United States Navy and was stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii when his best friend, “Gator” introduced him to his sister, Betty Glenn. When his service in the Navy, that included two combat tours in Vietnam, was done, he went back to Missouri and started his career with the United States Post Office that spanned 42 years. Nine years after Ace moved back to Missouri, Betty traveled to Kansas City in March of 1976 to attend TWA School for training to be a travel agent and there met “Ace” again. The two married in April of 1976 and spent 49 years of marriage together.

Survivors include his wife, Betty Glenn Sumter, Ormond Beach; two sons, Glenn Sumter (Autumn) of Holly Hill and Matthew Sumter (Jackie) of Olathe, KS; three grandchildren, Kristin Sumter (soon to be married to Jacob Clark), Justin Sumter and Alexia Sumter; two sisters, Arlie Cooksey (Melvin) of Corpus Christi, TX and Martha Beach (Danny) of Kansas City, MO; and one brother, Charley Sumter of St. Joseph, MO.

Funeral services for Mr. Sumter will be conducted on Friday, February 27, 2026 at 2:00 PM in the Gateway-Forest Lawn Memorial Chapel. Entombment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens. A time of visitation with the family will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM.

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02/23/2026

Richard Anthony Wolz

Richard Anthony Wolz, age80, passed away peacefully on February 19th, 2026. Richard was born on October 22, 1945, in Brooklyn, New York, to the late Richard and Leita Davis Wolz. The family later moved to South Florida, where Richard graduated from Pompano Beach High School. In 1979, Richard made Lake City, Florida, his home. He is survived by his 3 children: Sheila Raynor (Bruce), Michael Wolz (Crystal), and Douglas Wolz. He was a proud grandfather to Nicholas, Ashton, Bryson, Karsten, Corbin, and Talynn. He loved all of his grandchildren very much but had a particular soft spot for his great-granddaughter, Estelle. He made every effort to be at all of her events to cheer her on.

A passionate baseball fan, Richard’s heart belonged to the Los Angeles Dodgers. His commitment to watching every game and adjusting his schedule to keep up with the time differences was a reflection of his deep love for sport. The Dodgers were more than just a team to him; they were part of his life’s fabric.

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Brent Hayden, dear friend DeeAnn Yon, and countless neighbors that always checked in on him and shared meals with him. In keeping with His wishes, a private celebration of Richard’s life will take place on Florida’s Gulf Coast. In loving memory of Richard and in honor of his heart for his rescue dogs, Pico & Rex, donations may be made to: Doggie Rescue Ranch, 16516 County Road 136, Live Oak, FL 32060.

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02/21/2026

Roy Raymond "Ramie" Rickett

Roy Raymond “Ramie” Rickett was born on May 17, 1962, in Gainesville, FL, to the late Roy A. Rickett & Marion Louise Tomlinson Rickett. He suddenly and unexpectedly went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 19, 2026, in Lake City, FL.

He spent his younger years in Alachua, FL, prior to making Branford, FL, his home for the past 29 years.

He was a 1980 graduate of Santa Fe High School. During school, he played baseball. After graduating, he was quite the softball player and spent many days and nights on the field, all over the place. After high school, he went on to work for Coastline Air Conditioning, then Energizer for a brief time. He then began working at Clay Electric, which he retired from in January of 2025, after 29 years of service.

He started dating the love of his life, Peggy, in 1997, and they got married in 2004. They were true soulmates, best friends, and spent all their time together. Where you saw one, you saw the other. They enjoyed all the same things, which most recently included getting to travel, thrifting, antiquing, and spending all their time together.

When he married Peggy, he became a father to three beautiful daughters: Kendra, Kelli, and Kaylin. But it wasn’t until 2016 that he earned his most prized title of “Papa.” He loved his wife and his daughters, but he really loved his grandbabies. He spoiled them every chance he got.

Ramie enjoyed collecting models of cars, old trinkets, spending time with his family, spending too much money on grandkids, trying to win the Florida Lottery, and never giving up on being the first one to find Sasquatch.

Ramie was preceded in death by his parents, Roy A. Rickett and Marion Louise Tomlinson Rickett, and his mother-in-law, Margie Cannon Young.

Ramie is survived by: his wife Peggy Young Thomas Rickett, his sister: Renee Sykes, his aunt and uncle, Johnny & Margie Tomlinson, (who he considered his second parents) daughters: Kendra Crews (Dustin), Kelli Thomas (Phillip Taylor), Kaylin Harmon (Tyler), his grandchildren: Kenlyn, Kandyn, Kaibryn, Stetson, Addyson, PJ, & Aspen, and niece Nicki Sykes and nephew Brandon Sykes, a brother-in-law, Eugene Young (Rita), sister-in laws Wanda Hart (Hyman), and Pat Young along with a host of in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A funeral service for Mr. Roy “Ramie” Raymond Rickett will be conducted on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. in the Gateway-Forest Lawn Memorial Chapel with Pastor Robert Bradow officiating. Interment will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery in Branford, FL. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation beginning at 1:00 P.M., prior to the service at the funeral home. Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.

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02/19/2026

Kevin Paul Harper

Kevin Paul Harper, 67, of Lake City, passed away peacefully on Tuesday afternoon, February 17, 2026 at the Haven Hospice – E.T. York Care Center in Gainesville after an extended illness. He was born in San Jose, California on May 2, 1958 to the late Cecil Harper and Hilda Costa Harper. He has made Lake City his home since 1998, moving here from California. He was a truck driver by trade and was currently working for the O’neal companies in Lake City. He was a member of the Lake City Church of God; and in his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, working in his yard and motor cycle riding. He is preceded in death by his step-son, Joshua Miranda.

He is survived by his loving wife of over 30 years, Diane Harper; daughters, Rachelle Barragan, Ashley Harper and Melissa Harper; step-daughters, Donna Miranda and Charlene Vestmorris; brother, Cecil Harper and his sister, Ruth Ross. Nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren also survive.

A memorial service for Mr. Harper will be conducted on Friday, February 27, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. in the Gateway-Forest Lawn Memorial Chapel with Pastor Carl Thomas officiating. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M. in the chapel of the funeral home prior to the service. Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.

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02/17/2026

William David Jacobs

William David Jacobs, 85, of Lake City, passed away Thursday, February 12, 2026. He was born in Arlington, Virginia on February 9, 1941 to the late William Edward Jacobs and Irma Smith Jacobs. He was a United States Marine Corps Veteran, serving during the Vietnam War. He was a work-a-holic, who was always on the go doing something and never slowing down. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing and hunting.

He is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Shirley Jacobs of Lake City; step-sons, Scotty Crowley (Kayla) of Iowa Park, Texas & Randy Crowley (Gloria) of Douglas, Georgia; sisters, Doris Ann Whidden (Mitchell) of Cecilia, KY, Virginia Segars of Pompano Beach and Mary See of Punta Gorda; sister-in-laws, Judy Sinclair of Adel, GA, Dona Harrel (Larry) of Adel, GA and Diane Grinstead (David) of Macon, GA. Six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, one nephew, Rusty Leman along with several other nieces and nephews also survive.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.

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02/17/2026

Rodney Craig Nettles

Rodney Craig Nettles, 73, passed away on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at his residence following an illness. Graveside services will be conducted on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. at Oak Grove Cemetery in Union County. 1088 NW 87th PL, Lake Butler, FL 32054. With Bishop Stephen Bell officiating. Interment will immediately follow the services. Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.

02/15/2026

Billy Wayne Manucy

Billy Wayne Manucy, 82, of Lake City, passed away peacefully on Friday evening, February 13, 2026 at his residence with his family by his side. He was born on August 24, 1943 to the late Francis Dominic Manucy and Lucille Christine Allbritton Manucy. He has made Lake City his home since 1965 and worked several years with the AERO Corporation before going to work for and operating the tire shop at Manucy’s Gas Stop and Grocery. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing & trapping; telling stories & playing pranks on people; and was an avid gun and clock collector. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Mike Manucy and his sister, Pat Wasley.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Sandra Manucy of Lake City; daughters, Betty Campbell (Greg) and Barbara Waters (Donnie) both of Lake City; grandchildren, Brittany Campbell, Chelsey Manucy Spradley (Josh) and Haley Waters (Richard Freeman) all of Lake City; and great-grandchildren, Patricia, Paisley and Presleigh Spradley all of Lake City. One sister, Marty Barnes (Winton) of Live Oak along with many extended family members and friends also survive.

A celebration of life service for Mr. Manucy will be conducted on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 4:00 P.M. in the Gateway-Forest Lawn Memorial Chapel with Paul Moreau officiating. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation beginning at 3:00 P.M. prior to the service at the funeral home. Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.

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02/12/2026

Earl J. "Rusty" North

Earl J. North, Jr., known to most as Rusty, passed away peacefully at his home in Ellenton, Florida, on February 6, 2026, at the age of 72 with daughter Melanie and son in law Brad by his side. Rusty was born and raised in Lake City, Florida, and though he proudly spent his entire life calling Florida home, his career took him traveling extensively throughout the United States. He built a life full of stories, experiences, and friendships along the way—many of which he loved retelling with his signature humor and quick wit.

He worked for many years as a Project Superintendent with Haskell in Jacksonville, Florida, a role he remained deeply committed to until his illness in 2021. Rusty was known for his strong work ethic, leadership, and the respect he earned from colleagues across the country. Rusty had a lifelong love for the water. He especially enjoyed power boating, water skiing, scuba diving, and cherished his annual trips to the Florida Keys, where he felt most at peace. Above all, he was a funny, engaging storyteller who could captivate a room and leave people smiling long after the story ended.

He is survived by his beloved daughter, Melanie North Fasold, son-in-law, Brad Fasold, his siblings Debbie (Renny) Eadie, Nancy Smith, Tim & Monica North, and Kim North, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will fondly remember him. He was formerly married to Kathryn Boyette Clayton and remained close with Virginia Boyette.

Rusty was preceded in death by his parents, Earl J. North, Sr., known as Buck, and Betty Christie North and brother-in-law Rickey Smith.

A time of visitation with the family will be held from 5:00-7:00 P.M. on Friday, March 6, 2026 at the Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a local charity of your choice, in Rusty’s memory. Visitation arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.

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02/12/2026

H. Kendell Smith

H. Kendell Smith was born on August 16, 1933 to the late Charles “Shep” and Orita Smith in Smoaks, South Carolina. The family moved to Denmark, South Carolina, where the parents were farmers. Later his dad was Chief of Police in Denmark and his mother worked for the government at the Savannah River Bomb Plant.

Kendell graduated from Denmark High School in 1952. He attended Clemson University where he played football and Clemson has always been his team. His call to the music ministry was when he was a senior in high school. Kendell graduated from William Carey University in Hattiesburg, MS and the School of Sacred Music at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Kendell was preceded in death by his siblings, Ellis F., Frankie and Landis.

He served Baptist churches for 45 years. He served at the following churches; First Baptist Church in Golden Meadow, LA; First Baptist Church in Poplarville, MS; First Baptist Church in Vicksburg, MS; First Baptist Church in Brookhaven, MS; First Baptist Church in Andersonville, SC; First Baptist Church in Huntsville, AL; and Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church in Jacksonville, FL. His tenure at HAB was for 15 years and he retired as Minister of Music Emeritus in 1998. Kendell and Sandy Sieg were married on April 25, 2009 in Lake City, FL.

Kendell is survived by his wife, Sandy Sieg-Smith; children, Hoyt, Ellis S. (Julie), Melanie and Tammi; and Sandy’s son, Gary Sieg. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.

A graveside celebration of life service will be held at a later date in Little Swamp, South Carolina.

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