Michel Funeral Home

02/22/2026

Today, in his ninety fourth year, he introduced himself to Lord Protojereus Stavrofor Petar Milosevic. Archpriest Peter was born on June 21, 1932 in Jalovik near Sabac. In Sabac he was a priest for twenty-one years where he escaped communist Yugoslavia where he transfered to the Mid-western American Eparchy where he was appointed Secretary in Libertyville. After five years he is moving to the East American diocese where he was appointed a priest in Miami where he established the first Serbian Orthodox Church. He stayed there for only one year, where he is moving to the Western American Eparchy in the federal state of Montana where he stays for five years. In 1986 he transfers to the Mid-western American Diocese in St. Louis and the St. Parish. Jovana Bogoslova, where he stays until retirement.

He left behind his son Vladan, daughter-in-law Malina, grandson Petar and granddaughter-in-law Aleksandra. He rested in the Lord 19. On February 2026 in the circle of the closest family. The funeral and funeral of Proto Petar will be held in Homeland Serbia in Jalovik, his native village.

Visitation will be Tuesday from 4 to 8 p.m. at Michel Funeral Home 5930 Southwest Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63139 with memorial service beginning at 7 p.m.

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02/21/2026

James “Jim” H. Branson Sr., 88, of Union, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, surrounded by family. Born May 8, 1937, in Chesterfield, Missouri to Oliver Branson and Lillian (Newsom) Branson Golden.

Jim, also known to some as “Skip”, had an outgoing and friendly nature, enjoying the time he spent with family and friends, including his work family at TEMCO, and his faith family.
He was a master carpenter, with some saying he could create anything. In his spare time, he enjoyed golfing, bowling, and hunting. What he loved most, however, was fishing. He
took many trips to the Canadian outback to fish for walleye and still had hoped to make it up there one more time. He also enjoyed watching baseball and football.

He is survived by his children, Deborah M. Branson of Leslie, Missouri, and Denise L. (Steve) Thompson of Union, Missouri; daughter-in-law Kathy (Kevin) Branson of St. Peters, Missouri; his grandchildren: Gary (Nikki) Branson of Cabot, Arkansas; Shaun (Hillary) Branson of Folley, Alabama; Tim (Holly) of Farmington, Missouri; Jessica (Chris) Rylko- Meitner of Battlefield, Missouri; Casey (Kim) Branson of Pacific, Missouri; Anna Thompson of Union, Missouri; Carrie Thompson of Summerville, SC; former spouse Bettie Branson of Union, Missouri; cousin Terry (Jan) Redburn, St. Charles, Missouri; special friends Alberta and Peter Chulick of St. Louis, Missouri; many great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other
relatives and many friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; stepfather Guy Golden; his sons James H. Branson Jr. and Kevin M. Branson; his grandsons Keith W. Branson and Nicholas J. Branson; his brother David C. Branson and sister-in-law Mary Branson.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, April 4, 2026, Union Community Center, Union, Missouri, 12-4 pm open house.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation: www.mochf.org/donate-online.

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02/14/2026

02/13/2026

Jeffrey “Jeff” Scott Dodson age 63, of St. Louis, MO passed away unexpectedly on January 6th, 2026.

Jeff was born in St. Louis, MO on June 1st, 1962 to the late Derwin (Bud) Dodson, and the late Jeraldine P. Smith (nee Young) and his stepfather the late Jack M. Smith.

He enjoyed bicycling in the park and watching wrestling religiously. He also loved hunting and fishing, as well as playing pool with his friends. Jeff also had a love of eagles and motorcycles
(especially Harley Davidson).

Jeff was preceded in death by his parents, step father, brothers Matthew and Kevin Dodson and his brother-in-law Paul T. Kersting.

Jeff is survived by his beloved sisters, Kathy Kersting, Kim Dodson and stepsister Rene Mattieson and brother-in-law Mark Mattieson. Dear uncle to niece and nephews Courtney and Corey Kersting, and Zachary Mattieson. Dear Aunt Joanne Krupp and cousins.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE: Friday, February 20th, 2026. Michel Funeral Home 5930 Southwest Avenue, St. Louis, MO. 63139 from 6-8 p.m.

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02/11/2026

Robert James Collopy, born June 19, 1956, passed away on February 2, 2026, in St. Louis, Missouri, after
bravely battling cancer.

Robert was a man who lived life on his own terms. He worked in construction and took great pride in
being the kind of person who could fix just about anything. He loved boats and especially loved taking
his friends and family out on the water—whether for a peaceful ride or a day of fishing. He loved animals, and they loved him in return; they seemed to sense the gentleness beneath his rough edges.
He faced his share of struggles, but those who loved him never stopped seeing the good in him.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, James and Alice (Dahlberg) Collopy, his sisters Kathleen
Collopy and Patricia Cavanaugh, and his brother James Collopy.

He is survived by his sisters Christina (Bruce) Mackie and Mary Collopy; his nieces Bridget (Mike)
Barnoski, Heather (Mark) Buethe, Karyn (Andrew) Prendergast, and Robyn (Wes) Kuhn; his nephews
James Cavanaugh and Travis Mackie, who was also his godson; and many great-nieces and great-
nephews who will carry his memory forward.

Robert will be remembered for his independence, his loyalty, his quiet tenderness with animals, and the
unique place he held in the hearts of those who knew him.
Rest in peace, Bobby. You will be missed.

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02/11/2026

Johnathan James Coggins passed away suddenly February 2, 2026. Born December 25, 2007 to the late James R. Coggins II and Brandie Elizabeth Payne in Bismarck, North Dakota.

He spent his early years in Bismarck, North Dakota where he touched many hearts. At the age of 6 years old, he began living with his grandparents Rea and Joseph Hicks in Hudson, FL where he attended elementary school. In 2019 he moved to St. Louis, MO where he attended Long Middle School and Roosevelt High and continued to get his diploma.

He was genuinely kind hearted. Loving his family and friends so deeply. He loved and cared for all animals. His most favorite job was at Vinnies Italian as a cook, he loved every minute of it. Johnathan also enjoyed cutting grass with his uncle Rich. He was given many nicknames by his friends and family, most used was J.J., some knew him as John, John John, John J., Baby John, Luh John, and buddy. He will always be our Little buddy.

John is survived by his loving mother Brandie Payne. Dear brother of Patience. Dear grandson of Sara and James Nelson, Rea Hicks and Melissa Oster. Dear nephew of Michael, Casey, Anne, Toni, Ashley, Rich, Jessie, Joey, Matt, Skylar, Kim and Brandon. Loving cousin of Anthony, A***e, Ariana, Brookly, Danielle, Rae'ana, Suresh, Darraj, Taileah, Justyce, Raiya, Ellyc, Jeremy, Maverick, Kemper, Thorstynn, Chosynn, Hunter, Hailey, Alexis, Jase, Brynlee, and many more cousins.

He is preceded in death by his father, grandfather Joseph Hicks, Jimmy Coggins and great grandfather Raymond Wade. J.J. loved his dogs Lil Bit, Bruno Puggy, Ralphy and Mewo Mewo.

J.J. will be loved and missed by so many but never forgotten.

VISITATION: Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at Michel Funeral Home 5930 Southwest Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63139 from 4-8 p.m.

SERVICES: Thursday, February 12, 2026 at Michel Funeral Home at 10:00 a.m.

Interment: St. Matthew Cemetery.

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02/07/2026

James Steven Turman passed away suddenly February 1, 2026. Born November 13, 1968 to the late Jerry Dix and the late Rita (nee Puitt) Ham.

Devoted father of Karli Turman, Kelsi Turman, and Kyle Turman. Loving grandfather of Larson and Miller Stretch. Beloved brother of Gary (Stephanie) Turman. Dear uncle of Miranda (Braxton) Ubben, Cole and Hayley Turman. Dear friend of Lori Turman.

GRAVESIDE SERVICES: Monday, February 9, 2026 at Shepherd Hills Cemetery 1925 Old State Rd. M, Barnhart, MO 63012 at 10:00 a.m.

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02/06/2026

Fr. Radomir Chkautovich passed away February 4, 2026 at his residence.

Protojerej-Stavrophor Radomir Chkautovich was born on December 27, 1935 near Aleksandrovac, Serbia. He served as a priest of Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church in St. Louis for nearly 40 years.

He left behind three children, son Verolijub and twins Milomir and Milo. Daughter in laws Katarina and Chris. Beloved grandfather of 10 and nine great grandchildren.

Fr. Radomir Chkautovich is preceded in death by his loving wife Vera Chkautovich.

VISITATION: Sunday, February 8, 2026 at Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church, 1910 Serbian Drive, St. Louis, MO 63104 from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. with Pomen beginning at 6:00 p.m.

SERVICES: Monday, February 9, 2026 at Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church at 9:00 a.m. followed by a funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Interment Mt. Hope Cemetery.

Dacha will be held at Holy Trinity Serbian Hall following the service at Mt. Hope Cemetery.

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01/30/2026

Darla Denise (nee Willis) Carey passed away January 17, 2026 surrounded by her loving family. Born September 19, 1961 to Eddie Willis and the late Judith (nee McIntyre) Willis.

Devoted wife to Alan E. Carey of 14 years. Loving mother to Rachel LaChance. Beloved grandmother to Kori McMahon, Athana Willis, Lilly LaChance, and Emma LaChance. She will be missed by her loving companion, her dog Scoobs.

She is preceded in death by her mother, daughters Charly Smalley, and Anjel McMahon; and one sister Eyevonne Halbert.

Darla’s faith was with the Assembly of God Church. She was an active quilter and belonged to many quilting groups. Darla also enjoyed attending the Belleville Flea market until the time of her illness in April 2025.

Per Darla’s request, there will no be no services.

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01/30/2026

James Murray Manning passed away January 6, 2026 at the age of 59. Jim was a gentle, kind and caring man. He was a man of great taste for life. James lived large in his youth. He loved his 1965 Mustang 2007 Corvette. He enjoyed designer suits and fine dining. He cherished memories of his parents Barbara and Bobby Manning.

James was an amazing cook and story teller. His pride was his dogs B.B., Buddy, and Brutus. James has a college degree in Bachelor Arts in Accounting and Information Systems from the University of Missouri at Columbia, MO. James will be missed from all at his Schnucks family, Fox C-6 School District and friends at USPS where he worked as a manager for many years.

He James has survived by his best friend Vito Viviano, Jr.

A celebration of life will be at a later date.

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01/29/2026

Brittany Ann Chambers, 34, of Herculaneum MO went to be with our Lord suddenly and unexpectedly on January 13, 2026, in an automobile accident; leaving a void that can never be filled.

Brittany's smile could light up the entire room. It was the kind of smile that made people feel seen, welcomed, and safe. She carried a rare balance within her-serious when it mattered, silly when it was needed most and she left a mark on this world that will never be forgotten.

She had a heart that naturally reached for others. From a young age, she stepped into the role of caretaker, becoming a big sister not just by title, but by instinct. She had an innate ability to step into someone else's shoes, to understand their feelings, and to put their well - being before her own. Her empathy ran deep, and her compassion was effortless. She was warm, cooperative, reliable, and trustworthy - the kind of person people leaned on without hesitation.

She carried a calm presence, even in the middle of life's storms. Britt might get upset, as we all do, but she never gave up on the people she loved. She believed in them. She stayed. She loved her people fiercely and faithfully.

Britt truly loved living. She loved laughter, adventure, and making memories. She was the find of friend everyone hopes to have - the kind who shows up, who listens, who brings light into ordinary moments. She loved the outdoors, sharing adventures, and spending quality time with family and friends. But above all else, Brittany loved being a mother. There was nothing she would rather do than spend time with her son, Hudson. Being his mother was not just a part of her life - it was the highlight of her life. Her love for him was pure, selfless, and endless.

Though Britt no longer with us in body, her spirit can live on in the love she gave, the lives she touched, and the memories she leaves behind. We can see her in Hudson; we can feel her in moments of kindness, and we can carry her forward in the way we love one another.

Though we grieve her absence, we trust that her spirit lives on - held in God's embrace, carried in our memories, and reflected in the love she poured into this world. Her light has not gone out; it has only changed in form. She will always be remembered. She will always be loved.

Brittany was preceded in death by her doting father John Chambers, loving brother Chandler Bradshaw, uncle Larry Plopper, and her beloved grandparents (PaPa & MaMa) Michael and Donna Chandler, and (PaPa & MeMe) Cecil and Carol Chambers

Brittany is survived by her pride and joy; her son Hudson Hankins, his father Steven Hankins, her fur baby Armani, and her devoted mother Debra Borden. Loving sisters Crystal (Joe) Stawicki, Michele Borden, Meredith Chambers, and Dori Stevens. Uncle Don Chambers, Aunt Lisa Chambers, and Aunt Sherri (Patrick) Lambing. Nieces and Nephews Clarissa, Terry, Courtney, Oktober, Lacey, Jayda, Landon, Nevaeh, Julian, Creed and many other cousins, extended family members and friends.

VISITATION: Monday, February 2nd, 2026 at The Loft 7515 Morganford Rd., St. Louis, MO 63116 from 4-8 p.m.

SERVICES: Tuesday, February 3rd, 2026 at The Loft. Visitation from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Lisa Davidson officiating.

Interment: St. Matthews Cemetery.

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01/29/2026

Nancy Magafas (Pratt) passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, surrounded by her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edwin and Susan Pratt; her siblings, Bob (Betty) Pratt, Vincent (Alma) Pratt, and Carol (Don) Hizer.

Nancy was preceded in death nine months ago by her beloved husband, Andrew Magafas, the love of her life.

Nancy was a devoted and proud mother to Kelly (the late Dan) Gerau, Kerry (Steve) Geiger, and Colleen (James) Dalton.

She was a loving grandmother to Bryan (Darby) Gerau, Kevin (Kristen) Gerau, Derek Dalton, and Maximus Dalton, and a cherished great-grandmother to Daniel and Thomas Gerau.

She is survived by her sisters, JoAnn (Bob) Anderson, Janet Seago (Ray Bruton), Donna Morton and (Bob Klingler).

Nancy was a lifelong and dear friend of Sandy Blanner and Paul Smith. She also held a special place in the lives of Kristine (Jason) Ruyle and their children, Jonah and Joseph.

She leaves behind many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will cherish the memories they shared with her.

Nancy will be laid to rest at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery on February 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association or a charity of your choice in Nancy’s memory.

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