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Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home, 3780 Highway 80 East, Pearl, MS (2026)

05/23/2026

Wade Millard Chappell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and devoted servant of God, passed away on May 21, 2026, after a lifetime dedicated to faith, family, and community. Born on June 7, 1946, in Jackson, Mississippi, to Milda Wooten Chappell and Arthur Chester Chappell, Wade accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior in 1954 and was baptized at Trinity Baptist Mission in Carthage, Mississippi. He was a graduate of Edinburg High School, East Central Community College, Mississippi College, and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He was ordained into the ministry in 1967 and faithfully served as a pastor for more than 50 years at several churches, including New Harmony Baptist Church, Old Pearl Valley Baptist Church, Freeny Baptist Church, and Grandview Baptist Church. Even after his official retirement in 2018, his commitment to ministry led him back to Old Pearl Valley Baptist Church in 2021, where he continued to serve faithfully.

During the early years of his ministry, Wade also made a difference in education, teaching history at Edinburg High School and serving as Drug Education Coordinator for Leake County Schools. Over the past 25 years, he worked with Mississippi Mortuary Service and volunteered as a chaplain for Merit Health System, always striving to help those in need.

Wade was well known for his warm personality, always greeting others with a smile and often a funny story. His greatest passion was preaching the gospel and sharing the love of Jesus, and he cherished his family, his church, and his Heavenly Father. He lived a life of kindness, faith, and love — a guiding example for all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Glenda Tolbert Chappell, and their three children: Sha Chappell of Collierville, Tennessee; Amy McKinzie (Shane) of Pearl; and Toby Chappell (Kristen) of Pearl. Wade was a proud “Pop” to seven grandchildren: Ryan Erwin (Kristin) of Bowling Green, Kentucky; Holly Smith (Andrew), Hunter McKinzie, Riley Young (Emma), Gaige Young, Tristan McKinzie, and Ashlynn Chappell, all of Pearl. He was also blessed with six great-grandchildren: Reece Russell, Graham Russell, and Baker Smith of Pearl, and Lewis, Maggie, and Mary Cate Erwin of Bowling Green, Kentucky.

Also surviving him are three brothers, Wendell Chappell of LaPlata, Maryland; Emmett Chappell (his twin) of Dallas, Texas; David Chappell (Diane) of Pearl; and two sisters, Martha Williams of Kosciusko, Mississippi, and Shirley Hanson of Mobile, Alabama. Wade leaves behind numerous cousins, nephews, and nieces who will cherish his memory.

Known affectionately as “Bro. Wade” or simply “Preacher,” Wade never met a stranger and touched countless lives with his kindness and humor. He leaves a legacy for all to live by and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation will be held from 4:00pm until 7:00pm, Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Grandview Baptist Church in Pearl. Funeral services are 10:00am, Monday, May 25, 2026, at Grandview Baptist Church with graveside services to follow at 3:00pm at Sunrise Baptist Church Cemetery in Carthage.

Fond memories and condolences may be shared with Bro. Wade's family by visiting baldwinleepearl.com.

05/22/2026

Rev. Wade M. Chappell, 79, of Pearl, passed away on May 21, 2026, at Merit Health River Oaks in Flowood.

Visitation will be held from 4:00pm until 7:00pm, Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Grandview Baptist Church in Pearl. Funeral services are 10:00am, Monday, May 25, 2026, at Grandview Baptist Church with graveside services to follow at 3:00pm at Sunrise Baptist Church Cemetery in Carthage.

Fond memories and condolences may be shared with Bro. Wade's family by visiting baldwinleepearl.com.

05/19/2026

Mark your calendars! Come out and join us for our annual Gospel Sing Along, a fun evening of congregational, group and solo singing, celebrating the old time hymns we grew up on. No admission fee, casual dress. Sat, June 6, 2026 at 6:00pm here at Baldwin-Lee.

05/18/2026

Josie Lee Champion, 100, of Crystal Springs, Mississippi, and formerly of Jackson, Mississippi, entered the gates of heaven and reunited with loved ones on May 15, 2026, at her residence surrounded by her loving family.

Josie was born August 25, 1925, in Pioneer, Louisiana, to Mr. Willim P. Fallin and Mrs. Onor Orrie Burch Fallin. She was the oldest of six children blessed to this union.

In her spare time, she loved gardening rather it was the family vegetable garden or her flower garden you could always find her making sure it was kept up and neat. When the vegetables were ready to harvest, she would make sure there was enough put up for her family and then would share with others if she could. She also loved sewing and was an excellent seamstress. She would make all her children’s clothes and was so good at making them when they venture out to Sears and Roebuck department store the sales associates thought that they were designer clothing until they looked for the tag in the collar to see what size the children needed and there would not be one. When she wasn’t gardening or sewing you could find her spending time with her family that she loved dearly.

Mrs. Champion is preceded in death by her husband, James A. Champion, Sr.; sons, Charles Thomas Champion and Andy Champion; two grandchildren, her brother, and four sisters.

She is survived by her sons, Murray Bennett “Ben” Champion and wife Sue and James A. Champion, Jr. and wife Linda; four grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home in Pearl, Mississippi, from 10:00am-12:00pm. A memorial service will follow in the funeral home chapel at 12:00pm. Interment will take place the same day at 2:00pm at Lakewood Memorial Park in Jackson, Mississippi.

05/15/2026

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of Rafael "YuYo" Hernandez Velez, who left us on May 14, 2026, after a valiant struggle with neurological illnesses. Born on September 22, 1952, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Rafael was a beacon of light and laughter for all who knew him.

Rafael spent the majority of his life in the vibrant community of Las Monjas, Hato Rey Central, San Juan, Puerto Rico. Known for his infectious kindness and impeccable humor, Rafael was a friend to many and an inspiration to all. His warm smile and witty jokes brought joy to those around him, making him a beloved figure in his neighborhood.

Rafael dedicated 45 years of his career to Texaco as a gas station attendant, where his exceptional work ethic and dedication to customer service made him a cherished member of the team and a familiar face to everyone in the San Juan area. His unwavering commitment to his work and community was only matched by his devotion to his family.

Rafael's life was enriched by the love of his family. He was a cherished son to Rafael Hernandez and Luz Velez. He was blessed with three children: Rafael “Rafi” Hernandez JR, married to Marilyn Quiles; Julio Hernandez, married to Reyssa Perez; and his beloved daughter, Zuleika Hernandez. Rafael's legacy of love and laughter extends to his three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy and pride to his life.

In 1976, Rafael married Maria Velez, with whom he welcomed his first son, Rafi. Later, in 1984, he married Marta Guzman, and together they raised Julio and Zuleika in a home filled with love and laughter.

Despite his many accomplishments, Rafael's greatest joy was the time he spent with his family and friends. His home was a haven of warmth and generosity, where everyone felt welcome. His love for life and his incredible sense of humor will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Rafael's family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Lakeland Community Care Center, St. Dominick Hospital, and Gentiva Hospice. Their kindness and support brought comfort and peace during Rafael's final days.

In accordance with Rafael’s wishes, his family will take his remains to Puerto Rico to honor his final wishes at a later date. The family invites all who knew Rafael to remember him for his kindness, joyful spirit, and the many lives he touched.

Rafael Hernandez Velez will forever be cherished in our hearts, a guiding light whose legacy of love and laughter will continue to inspire us.

“Lord, we thank you for the gift of his life. Thank you for his hardworking hands, his brave heart, and his constant guidance. Though we walk without his physical presence today, his life continues to shine on our path. Welcome him into your glory and grant us the peace of knowing he rests in your arms.”

05/13/2026

Henrietta Culberson, of Pearl, passed away on her 84th birthday, on May 8, 2026.

Henrietta was born in Madden, Mississippi, a daughter of the late Henry Olen Tatum and Mary Elizabeth Dennis Tatum. She lived most of her life in Pelahatchie where she was a longtime member of Lodebar Church.

Henrietta enjoyed a lengthy career with Polk’s Drugs at Crossgates, where she faithfully served generations of customers with kindness, compassion, and a warm smile. Her caring nature and dedication made her a familiar and beloved presence to many throughout the community.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Murl Culberson; and siblings, Nona Tatum Peoples, Mary Tatum Ferguson, Dean Tatum Sylvester, Jimmie Kay Tatum Sistrunk, Beverly Sue Tatum Cumberland, Carolyn Tatum Tew, J.D. Tatum, and Ronald Tatum.

She is survived by daughter, Toni Goss and husband Steve; son, Donald Williamson and wife Amy; grandchild, Dale Williamson; and sisters, Sandra Tatum Loftin, and Barbara Tatum Kemp and husband Pat.

Visitation will be held from 12:00pm until 2:00pm, Friday, May 15, 2026, at Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home in Pearl. Funeral services will follow at 2:00pm with interment in Lodebar Cemetery in Pelahatchie.

Fond memories and condolences may be shared by visiting baldwinleepearl.com.

05/12/2026

Henrietta Culberson, of Pearl, passed away on her 84th birthday, on May 8, 2026.

Visitation will be held from 12:00pm until 2:00pm, Friday, May 15, 2026, at Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home in Pearl. Funeral services will follow at 2:00pm with interment in Lodebar Cemetery in Pelahatchie.

Fond memories and condolences may be shared with Henrietta's family by visiting baldwinleepearl.com.

05/11/2026

Bobby Dale Baynes, 78, of Jackson, passed away May 4, 2026.

He was born August 30, 1947, in Jackson, a son of the late Charlie W. Baynes and Laura Gentry Baynes. Bobby was deeply devoted to his family and shared an especially close bond with his twin sister, Robbie.

Throughout his life, he worked in several fields and was known for his strong work ethic and friendly spirit. Bobby was employed with Krystal on Highway 80 in Jackson, served as an LPN at Mississippi State Hospital, and later worked in the cafeteria at Jim Hill High School in Jackson, where he enjoyed interacting with students and staff alike.

Bobby was an avid animal lover who enjoyed caring for his beloved dogs. In his free time, he could often be found playing Bingo or enjoying a night of dancing with friends and family.

Bobby was known for being very plain spoken — he always told you exactly what was on his mind — and those who knew him appreciated his honesty, humor, and genuine nature.

Bobby leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication. He believed in working hard, caring for others, and living life with honesty and heart — qualities that will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his siblings, Robbie Baynes, Annette Huff, Betty Price, Reggie Baynes, Willie Frank Baynes, and Mary Jane Porter.

He is survived by his nephew, Frank Brooks and wife Kimberley; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, and great-great-nephews.

A Celebration Gathering to honor Bobby’s life will be held from 2:00pm until 4:00pm, Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home in Pearl.

Fond memories and condolences may be shared with the Baynes family by visiting baldwinleepearl.com.

05/11/2026

Melissa Ann Brenton, 61, of Florence, passed away May 10, 2026, while surrounded by her family at home.

She was born March 9, 1965, in Simpson County, Mississippi, a daughter of the late Robert Earl Hosey and Fannie Craft Hosey.

Melissa retired from Merit Health Central after 37 dedicated years of service as a respiratory therapist, a career she approached with compassion, skill, and unwavering dedication to the care of others.
Melissa was very close to her family and was especially proud of her daughters. She found great joy in seeing her youngest daughter follow in her footsteps into the medical field.

In her free time, Melissa was an avid reader and a devoted fan of Looney Tunes, especially Bugs Bunny. Her favorite color was orange, a fitting reflection of her bright and sunny disposition that brought warmth and happiness to those around her.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her grandchild, Brelynn McFarland; and nephew, Brandon Hosey.

She is survived by her children and their father, Megan McFarland (Joshua McFarland), Kristin Brenton (David Hall), Abby Brenton (Jimmy Tadlock), and Timmy Brenton; grandchildren, Cayden McFarland, Lillie McFarland, and Karter Brenton; brothers, Jamie Hosey, and Chad Hosey (Diane Hosey); sister, Tracy Runnels; granddogs, Milo and Otis; and a host of nieces, nephews, and special friends.

Visitation will be held from 5:00pm until 8:00pm, Monday, May 11, 2026, at Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home in Pearl. Funeral services are 10:00am, Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at the funeral home with interment to follow in Floral Hills Memory Gardens.

Fond memories and condolences may be shared with Melissa's family by visiting baldwinleepearl.com.

05/10/2026

Melissa Ann Brenton, 61, of Florence, passed away May 10, 2026, while surrounded by her family at home.

Visitation will be held from 5:00pm until 8:00pm, Monday, May 11, 2026, at Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home in Pearl. Funeral services are 10:00am, Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at the funeral home with interment to follow in Floral Hills Memory Gardens.

Fond memories and condolences may be shared with Melissa's family by visiting baldwinleepearl.com.

05/07/2026

Thomas Earl Boykin, Jr, 90, of Florence, entered the gates of heaven on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Baptist Hospital in Jackson, Mississippi.

Thomas was born in Raleigh, Mississippi, on October 17, 1935, to Mr. Thomas Earl Boykin, Sr. and Mrs. Bessie Kennedy Boykin.

After graduating high school, he joined the US Army serving his country. After getting out of the military he went to work at DeSoto Furniture later becoming Hood Furniture manufacturing. Even after retirement, he still would make wood tables, cars, trucks, and shelves for family and friends. When he was not doing woodwork, he spent time with the love of his life Mrs. Helen Middleton, whom he married on December 8, 1962. You could also find him spending time with extended family especially nieces and nephews.

Thomas is preceded in death by his parents, and sisters, Mary Dukes, Faye Lott, and Billie Sullivan.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Helen Faye Middleton Boykin, and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Floral Hills Memory Gardens in Pearl, Mississippi, at 11:00 am.

Pallbearers will be Randy Sullivan, Stan Sullivan, Mack Middleton, CJ Luke, Danny Ham, Sr, and Steve Padgett.

Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home

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