Comforter Funeral Home

04/16/2026

Carlene W. Parker

Carlene W. Parker, a devoted community member and celebrated artist known for her vibrant tie-dye creations, joined her daughter Alicia in heaven on Monday, April 13, 2026, in Port St. Joe, Florida, at the age of 77. Born Carlene Willey on March 17, 1949, in Detroit, Michigan, she lived a life rich in dedication to both family and community.

Prior to residing in Port St. Joe for the past two decades, Carlene made her home in Atlanta, Georgia. A significant chapter of Carlene’s life was deeply shaped by the memory of her daughter, Alicia Parker, who succumbed to cancer in 1985. In Alicia’s honor, Carlene, alongside her husband John L. Parker III, committed 27 years of service at Camp Sunshine in Madison, Georgia—a summer camp dedicated to children battling cancer. Her vibrant tie-dye art became a symbolic and uplifting presence at the camp, providing comfort and joy to many children and families during difficult time and she was known as "The Tie Dye Lady".

After moving to Gulf County, Florida she became an original founding member of the Port St. Joe Salt Air Farmers Market, actively contributing to its establishment and growth.

Carlene's enthusiasm extended beyond her artistic talents; she had a particular fondness for dragonflies, appreciating their delicate beauty and symbolism. Her bright, colorful tie dye artwork and her compassionate spirit left a lasting impression on those who knew her and will be sorely missed.

She is survived by her husband, John L. Parker III, and her two sisters, Terry Standish and Missy Gleneck.

Carlene is preceded in death by her parents, Carl R. Willey and Hazel Reisinger Willey, and her beloved daughter, Alicia Parker, who she has now joined in eternal peace.

Arrangements are entrusted to the caring staff of Comforter Funeral Home in Port St. Joe, Florida.

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04/15/2026

Plan your summer adventures without breaking the bank! This fun guide is packed full of unique experiences you can try for a discount (or free!). Click below to learn more.

From unique festivals to one-of-a-kind concerts, older adults can have fun and enrich their lives without breaking the bank. Here's your ultimate guide to free museums, concerts, and events.

04/13/2026

Chester Derwin Rowland

Chester Derwin Rowland, age 61, a lifelong native of Apalachicola, Florida, passed away on Friday, April 10, 2026, in Panama City, Florida. Born on April 27, 1964, Mr. Rowland was a dedicated and hardworking individual whose life was deeply intertwined with the waters of the Gulf Coast.

A graduate of Apalachicola High School, Chester's early career included various roles in construction. However, it was on the water that he truly found his calling. He spent the majority of his life as a commercial fisherman, specializing in oystering, sh*****ng, and fishing.

Outside of his professional life, Chester was an avid hunter and fisherman, embracing the outdoors with enthusiasm. Above all, his favorite pastime was spending quality time with and caring for his beloved grandsons and a host of nieces and nephews.

Chester is survived by his mother, Louise Rowland, of Apalachicola, Florida; his wife of 32 years, Rose Rowland, also of Apalachicola; his daughter, Jackie Rowland, residing in Apalachicola; and his stepson, Robert Switzer, of Quincy, Florida. He is further survived by two brothers, Jeff Rowland and Victor Rowland (Lisa), and two sisters, Belinda Cassidy (Michael) and Amy Hersey (Matt), all of Apalachicola. His grandchildren, who held a special place in his heart, include RJ Switzer, Landon Switzer, Khayden Smith, Collin Smith, and Oakley Smith. Chester was preceded in death by his father, William C. Rowland.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time to 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time at First Assembly of God - Apalachicola and the funeral will begin at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Immediately following, interment will take place at Magnolia Cemetery in Apalachicola.

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04/13/2026

Coleman Lamar Griffin

Coleman Lamar Griffin age 83 of Port St. Joe, Florida entered into eternal on Sunday, April 5, 2026 at Ascension Sacred Heart Bay in Panama City, Florida. He was born on June 29, 1942 in Port St. Joe, Florida.

Services will be held at Zion Fair Baptist Church in Port St. Joe, Florida on Saturday, April 18, 2026 with the viewing from 10:00 A.M. Eastern Time until 10:45 A.M Eastern Time and the funeral starting at 11:00 A.M. Eastern Time. The committal service will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery in Port St. Joe, Florida.

A full obituary is forthcoming.

Arrangements are entrusted to the caring staff of Comforter Funeral Home in Port St. Joe, Florida.

View Coleman Lamar Griffin's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/13/2026

04/11/2026

Jay A. Gillespie

Jay A. Gillespie, born on November 21, 1941, in Oklahoma, passed away on Friday, April 10, 2026, in Panama City, Florida at the age of 84. Raised on a family farm in Kansas, Jay’s early life was rooted in hard work and dedication, values he carried with him throughout his life. At the age of 18, he joined the United States Air Force, later transferring to the United States Navy, where he honorably served his country for over twenty years as an aircraft mechanic before retiring. His military career took him to numerous postings across the country and beyond.

In 1994, Jay settled in Eastpoint, Florida, embracing a life that balanced his love of family and the serene outdoors. He was known for his simple pleasures, such as fishing at the catfish pond and maintaining his yard with meticulous care, often seen mowing the grass himself.

Jay’s greatest pride was his family. He cherished spending time with his loved ones and had a special affection for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, often found with a baby in his lap. Surrounded by those who loved him, Jay was survived by one son John Gillespie; son-in-law, Mark Boon; sister, Shirley Early Gillespie; grandchildren Makayla Richardson (Stephen), Glen Richards Jr., Alysa Richards, Shayna Richards, Amber Boon, Jeremy Boon, Chad Boon, Kayla Richards, and Robert Richards. Always faithful, his little K-9 companion, “DOG,” was a beloved member of the household.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Gillespie and Mary Fitz Gillespie; his loving wife, Ada Gillespie; sons Robert Richards and Glen Richards; daughter Glenda Boon; and brother Earl Gillespie.

The visitation for Jay A. Gillespie will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. Eastern Time to 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time, followed immediately by the funeral service from 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time to 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time; both events will take place at Living Waters Assembly of God in Apalachicola, Florida with Pastor Scotty Lolley officiating. A private burial will take place at Eastpoint Cemetery

Jay A. Gillespie’s life was marked by service, devotion, and a quietly enduring spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication that will be treasured by all who had the privilege to know him.

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04/10/2026

Cremation continues to be a popular choice, but did you know there are now two forms available in many states? Read this blog to learn more about the differences between flame-based and water-based cremation!

Did you know there are two forms of cremation? Read this article to learn about the differences between water-based and flame-based cremation?

04/08/2026

Spring cleaning can be ruff, but you know it's worth it for your furry friend. Click below to learn more about how you can provide a safe place for your pup to play!

As winter draws to a close, spring cleaning is on lots of minds, including kennel owners. Learn tips in this spring cleaning checklist for kennel owners.

04/08/2026

Gerald Glynn D***s

Gerald Glenn D***s, age 80, of Wewahitchka, Florida, passed away suddenly at home on Monday, April 6, 2026. Born on January 31, 1946, in Marianna, Florida, he was a lifelong resident of the area, deeply rooted in the communities of Wewahitchka and surrounding Gulf County.

Gerald was a hardworking man whose hands built a life of quiet strength and unwavering dedication. As a skilled tile setter and painter, he took pride in his craftsmanship, pouring his energy into every job with the same integrity and care he showed in all areas of his life. Whether on a worksite or at home, he approached each task with diligence, never shying away from the labor that provided for and protected those he loved. Above all, Gerald was a devoted family man. He and his wife, Carrie D***s, shared 24 beautiful years together, creating a foundation of love and commitment.

He is survived by his loving wife, Carrie D***s; his brother, Kenneth D***s of Grand Ridge, FL; his sister, Dot Wiley of Tampa, FL; his children: Angie (Shane) Johnson of Blountstown, FL, Greg (Michelle “Skipper”) D***s of Youngstown, FL, Royce (Sherrie) D***s of Chipley, FL, and Robert (Natasha) Davis of Port St. Joe, FL; his stepson, Rob (Melissa) Halstead; and his stepdaughter, Sonja (Anthony) Romero. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Shana (Jonathan) Doolan of Lynn Haven, FL, Clay Pridgeon of the Florida Keys, Tyler Johnson (Deanna Sullivan) of Lynn Haven, FL, and Kelsey D***s of Wewahitchka, FL; step grandchildren, Ashlynn Skipper, Marissa Skipper, John Daniel Skipper, Cole Skipper, Kenneth (Courtney) Harris of Chipley, FL, Brianna (Matt West) Marron of Virginia, Brendon Herrera of California, and Bryce Herrera. He is further survived by his great-grandchildren: Elijah Doolan, Gabrielle Doolan, Melody Johnson, Kaiden Johnson, Eliza Pridgeon, Hanna Pridgeon, Sterling D***s, Jackson Sasser, Bailee D***s, and Bryson Davison; step great-grandchildren, Blake Harris, Logan Harris, Bryce Harris, Sophia Halstead, Tyson Halstead, Trenton Halstead, Hailey Halstead, Hudson Halstead, and Luca Marron; along with many extended relatives and friends who will miss his stories, his smile, and his presence.

Gerald’s family was his everything. He was the most loving, giving, and family-oriented man, never meeting a stranger and always ready with a kind word or helping hand. Whether fishing, hunting, or simply spending time with loved ones, he cherished every moment shared. He would do anything for his family, friends, or anyone in need. His generosity and warmth touched countless lives. He was so proud of each member of his growing family and made sure they knew they were cherished.

Though he followed a non-denominational faith, Gerald loved the Lord deeply and lived out his beliefs through his actions: honest work, sacrificial love, and steadfast care for others. His life reflected the biblical call of a good and faithful servant. One who worked heartily as unto the Lord and finished his race with integrity.

He is having a joyful reunion in heaven with his parents, Lawrence D***s and Clara Mae D***s; his granddaughter Brittney D***s; and other loved ones who had gone before him.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 6-8 p.m. EST at Comforter Funeral Home in Port St. Joe, Fl. A graveside service will take place on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. CT at Buckhorn Cemetery in Wewahitchka.In lieu of flowers, the family suggests acts of kindness in Gerald’s memory. Helping a neighbor, spending time with family, or simply speaking to a stranger with the warmth he always showed.

Gerald Glenn D***s leaves behind a powerful legacy: a hard-working provider, a faithful husband, a proud and loving father and grandfather, and a man whose quiet faith and open heart made the world around him better. He will be deeply missed, yet his love continues to live on in every story told, every hand extended, and every life he touched.The D***s family is comforted knowing the Lord’s promise of eternal life and the assurance that Gerald is now at rest in the presence of the One he loved and served.

Well done, good and faithful servant. (Matthew 25:21)

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04/07/2026

April 15th is right around the corner! Don't forget to complete your taxes.

04/06/2026

Willa Davis

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04/06/2026

Lauren SanFilippo Sickels

Lauren Jane SanFilippo Sickels age 69 of Port St. Joe, Florida passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026. She was born in New Jersey on January 12, 1957.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Lauren is survived by her husband Jim Sickels; one son, Daniel SanFilippo, five grandchildren and a host of family, friends, and community.

To best describe Mrs. Lauren, her son wrote this beautiful tribute:

With great sadness to say my mom Lauren SanFilippo has passed away this morning..a Single mom who raised me and gave me everything when we had nothing..a strong woman that didn’t put up or take any crap!I love you most

A memorial service will be held at St. James Episcopal Church in Port St. Joe, Florida on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 1:oo P.M. Eastern Time .

Arrangements are entrusted to the caring staff of Comforter Funeral Home in Port St. Joe, Florida.

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