Milling Funeral Home

04/08/2026

Services for Ms. Julia Annette Boatner will be held 1:00 p.m., Friday, April 10th, 2026 at Milling Funeral Home Chapel of Union. Bro. Mike Miles will be officiating. Burial will be held in Pleasant Ridge Methodist Church Cemetery Collinsville Ms.

Visitation will be held 5:00-7:00 p.m., Thursday, April 09th, 2026 at Milling Funeral Home of Union.

Ms. Julia Annette Boatner , 87, passed away April 07, 2026.

Survivors:

2 Sons: Keith Boatner (Paula) and David Boatner (Cheryl)

6 Grandchildren: Jessi McDaniel, Aaron Boatner, Jammy Rodgers, Ashley Ward (Ken), Brittany Dowdy (Drew), and Breann Moore (Ryan)

11 great-grandchildren

1 Sister: Faye Phillips

2 Sisters-in-Law: Elizabeth Dallas and Deanna Dallas

Son-in-law: Raymond Rodgers

Ms. Boatner is preceded in death by: Husband: James Sidney Boatner, Daughter: Theresa Rodgers, 3 Brothers: Horace Dallas, Bobby Dallas, and Charles Dallas, 3 Sisters: Sarah Jones, Margie Truhett and Clara McMullan.

Pallbearers: Rick Twine, Kenny Moore, Shannon Beckham, Jonathan Pilgrim, Doug Dallas and Tony Phillips.

Julia Annette Boatner passed peacefully into the presence of her Savior on April 7, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family after a courageous illness. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, laughter, faith, and deep devotion to those she loved most.

Annette was known for her strong spirit, sharp mind, and wonderful sense of humor. She had a quick wit that could make anyone smile, along with a delightfully goofy side that brought laughter to family gatherings and everyday moments alike. She had a special way of making people feel welcome, loved, and right at home.

Her faith in God was the foundation of her life. It guided her kindness, her resilience, and the love she poured into her family. Annette treasured staying connected with everyone she loved, always wanting to know what was happening in the lives of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends.

She was a remarkable grandmother and great-grandmother, a role she cherished deeply.

Annette also found joy in tending to her garden. Whether sharing stories, cooking a favorite meal, or simply sitting together in conversation, she made the ordinary moments feel special.

Though her family’s hearts are heavy with loss, they find comfort knowing she is now at peace and rejoicing with her Savior. Her strength, humor, wisdom, and love will continue to live on through the family she cherished so dearly.

Julia Annette Boatner will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

04/07/2026

Funeral Arrangements for Ms. Julia Annette Boatner are incomplete at this time.

04/05/2026

Funeral services for Ms. Janie Marie James will be held at 11:00 am, Thursday April 9, 2026, at Beulah Baptist Church. Visitation will be held from 9:30-11:00 prior to the service at Beulah Baptist Church. Burial will be in the church Cemetery.

Ms. James, 81, of Little Rock, passed away Saturday April 4, 2026 at her residence, surrounded by her loving family.

Janie was a faithful follower of Christ. She had a compassionate servant’s heart. For many years she served diligently in the cafeteria of Beulah Hubbard High School. She then went on to serve as an administrative assistant at Weems Mental Health Center in Meridian for many years. Her coworkers would say that Janie always had a sweet spirit and was encouraging to them.

She was a devoted and loving wife to Bobby for sixty years. She loved and cared for her three children: Gary, Pam, and Penny. She raised them up in the way of the Lord. She cherished time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved all of her family abundantly, and she never failed to show up at family events.

She was a dedicated member of Beulah Baptist Church, where she graciously served as a Sunday School teacher for several years. She loved her church family and friends immeasurably. When she was no longer able to attend church, she enjoyed the home visits from her church family. She also enjoyed time visiting with her friends of the Hopewell community.

She enjoyed the visits with her brother, Roy, and her outings with her sister-in-law, Nadine (Dean). She was a strong and hard working individual. She enjoyed working outside and keeping her yard and flowers in beautiful shape. She also worked countless hours in the garden with Bobby for many years. Inside her home she enjoyed cooking and cleaning.

Janie was a humble and kind person who always put the needs of others before her own. Even through her long battle with cancer, she would still love and show compassion to others around her. Her faith in Christ was resilient.

As we remember Janie and her life, we recall the words of 2 Timothy 4:7 - “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

Survivors:

1 Daughter: Penny Holifield (Kenneth)

1 Son: Gary James (Tina)

9 Grandchildren: Laura Giles, Holly Giles, Daniel Giles (Victoria) , Kayla Moore (Corbin), Kacey Hickman(Elisha) , Noah James, Jonah Luke James, Emma James, Isaac James.

5 Great-Grandchildren: Gabi Kay, Emmie, Sutton Lucy, Crew and a little bundle due late April.

1 Brother: Roy Clary (Judy)

1 Sister-in-Law: Nadine Chaney

Ms. Janie is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews.

Ms. Janie James is preceded in death by: Husband: Bobby James, Daughter: Pam Giles and Parents: Jack and Agnes Clary.

Pallbearers: Daniel Giles, Corbin Moore, Elisha Hickman, Justin Gressett, Glenn Harrison, and Roy Clary.

04/05/2026

04/04/2026

Funeral Arrangements for Ms. Janie James are incomplete at this time.

04/02/2026

UNION: Services for Mr. Billy Ray Ethridge, Sr will be held 11 am, Wednesday, April 08, 2026, at Arkadelphia Baptist Church with burial in the church cemetery. Bro. Keith Lovett and Bro. Michael Pogue will officiate.

Visitation will be held 10 am- 11 am, Wednesday, April 08, 2026 at Arkadelphia Baptist Church.

Mr. Ethridge, age 82, of Meridian died Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

Survivors:

2 Daughters: Lynn Garret (Russell) and Tammy Ethridge

1 Son: Bill Ethridge

2 Grandchildren: Michael Garrett (Brooke), and Kristin Partridge (River)

3 Great-Grandchildren: Kailyn Garrett, Tripp Garrett, and Nayomi Partridge

Mother of his children: Ruth Ethridge

Mr. Ethridge is preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Dorothy Ethridge; Grandson, Mason Pinson, five brothers and one sister.

Mr. Billy Ray Ethridge Sr. was a member of Midway Baptist Church.

Pallbearers: Bubba Ethridge, Michael Yancy, Scottie Ethridge, Johnny McClure, Brisco James and Michael Garrett

The family would like to thank ACG Hospice for their care and compassion.

03/31/2026

UNION: Services for Mr. Billy Ethridge are incomplete at this time.

03/27/2026

Pastor Howard “Lamar” Jackson entered his heavenly home on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at the age of 83.

Graveside services will be held at 3:00pm, Monday March 30, 2026 at Salem Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Walnut Grove, MS.

Visitation will be held from 1:00- 3:00 at the Church on Monday.

Lamar was born on October 10, 1942, in Mississippi to the late William Howard Jackson and Virga Ora McKeeJackson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sandra Elaine(Watkins) Jackson and his grandson, Jackson Luke Myers.

Lamar lived a life devoted to serving others and his faith. To know him was to know a man whose heart fully belonged to Jesus Christ. He graduated from Bethel College with a degree in seminary and faithfully pastored numerous churches throughout his life, including Charleston CP Church, Coker Church, Kosciusko CP Church, Erin CP Church, Walnut Grove CP Church, Atwood CP Church, Antioch Church, New Ebenezer Pleasant Mount CP Church, Steam Mill CP Church, Salem CP Church, Silverdale CP Church, and Flint Springs CP Church. He served as head of The Ministerial Association of Rhea County, was the minister of music at Charleston CP Church and help with the music at Pikeville CP Church. His ministry extended from beyond the pulpit, reaching deeply into the communities he served.

Outside of his pastoral calling, Lamar worked at Bendix-Allied Signal for 24 years before retiring in 2003. He was passionate about mentoring young people and made a lasting impact through his involvement with the Boy Scouts of America as a Scout Master, helping guide many young men to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout including his son, Mark.

Lamar had a deep love for music and especially cherished singing at church. He was also a proud and dedicated blood donor, generously giving over 12 gallons throughout his lifetime to help others in the community. He loved his Saturday morning coffee club at Hardees with his friends or the Huddle House after evening service at First Baptist.

He is survived by his children, Mark Thomas Jackson of Cleveland, and Melanie Ann Jackson Myers of Dayton; his grandson, William Clayton Myers of Dayton; and his beloved cat, Sophie.



Serving as pallbearers are John, Stokes, David Bond, Cecil Jackson, Mark Jackson, Richard Graham, and honorary pallbearer, Tommy Crawford.

03/26/2026

UNION: Funeral services for Mr. Gerald H. Rigdon will be held at 2:00 P.M. Friday, March 27, 2026, at Milling Funeral Home Chapel of Union. Burial will follow at New Ireland Baptist Church Cemetery. Bro. Thomas Fortenberry, Bro. Bobby Barfoot, and Bro. Rusty Walton will officiate.

Visitation will begin at 12:30 pm until service time on Friday at Milling Funeral Home of Union.

Gerald H. Rigdon, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and faith. He had been a cherished member of his community since 1961.

Gerald married his beloved wife, Martha Rigdon, in 1959 at New Ireland Baptist Church. Together they shared 66 years of marriage, building a life rooted in faith, family, and unwavering commitment.

He spent over 40 years working as a Plant Engineer for DeSoto & Cleveland, where he was known for his strong work ethic, leadership, and dedication. Gerald was also a faithful member of New Ireland Baptist Church.

In his free time, Gerald enjoyed rebuilding tractor motors, a passion that reflected his patience and skill. He treasured time with his family, especially making lasting memories such as teaching loved ones to water ski. He lived by the belief to always finish what you start, no matter how difficult the task.

Above all, Gerald’s greatest pride and accomplishment was his family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Martha Rigdon; his son, Mark Rigdon (Anita); his daughter, Alesia Lingle (Chris); his grandson, Colby Rigdon (Lindsey); and his granddaughter, Kristen Lingle. He is also survived by his sister, Lynn Bishop (Prentiss). He also leaves behind honorary grandchildren, Roderick Hawkins and Allison Gibson and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Blanche Gore Rigdon and Lester Lamar Rigdon; his siblings: Lavette Rigdon, Paulvin Rigdon, Keith Rigdon, and Willis Rigdon

Gerald will be remembered for his steady presence, his perseverance, and the deep love he had for his family. His life was a testament to dedication, faith, and the importance of finishing what you start.

Pallbearers: Roderick Hawkins, Daniel Harrison, Bruce Shannon, Zan Tillman, and Darrell Pyle

Honorary Pallbearer: Bobby Tillman

03/24/2026

UNION:

Services for Mr. Gerald H. Rigdon will be held at 2:00 P.M. Friday, March 27, 2026 at Milling Funeral Home in Union.

Visitation will begin at 12:30 until service time.

Burial will follow at New Ireland Baptist Church.

Full obituary to follow.

03/23/2026

UNION: Services for Mrs. Jane Shelton Couturie` will be held 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Union. Bro. Michael Wilbanks and Bro. Nathan Davis will officiate. Burial will be held in Union City Cemetery.

Visitation will be held 2:00-3:30 p.m., Wednesday March 25, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Union prior to church service.

Jane Shelton Couturie’ passed away Saturday night March 21, 2026 in her home surrounded by her family. Jane was 82 years young.
While admired for her outer beauty, Jane was most known for her inner beauty and her love of God's Word and for her family.
When her husband Denny was called into the ministry to be a preacher, Jane stood quietly beside him being his biggest supporter and encourager. She always preferred to do her ministry in the shadows, never the spotlight.

Jane was selfless, always putting others first. Jane loved unconditionally. And it was spending time with children and grandchildren that brought her the most joy and made her the happiest.

She will always be remembered as the best wife, mother and nana anyone could have ever asked for. She will forever be our Angel Jane.

Survivors:

Husband of 61 years: Denny Couturie`

1 Son: Denny Couturie` Jr. (Dallas)

1 Daughter: Danielle Deir (Franklin)

2 Grandchildren: Matthew McGaha (Marianna) and Micah McGaha (Mollie)

1 Great-Grandson: Cooper McGaha

4 siblings: Twin Brother, James "BO" Shelton, Mack Shelton (Gail), Margaret Driskell (Larry), and Velma Graham (John)

She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Jane Couturie` is preceded in death by her parents, Mack and Mary Shelton; two sisters, Gwen Shelton and Barbara Harrison.

Pallbearers: Chad Harrison, Michael Graham, Jeff Shelton, Eric Shelton, Ashley Burroughs, and Scott Driskell

03/23/2026

UNION: Graveside service for Ms. Sara Mae Munn will be held 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Mt. Zion Congregational Methodist Church. Bro. Tod Thompson will officiate.

Ms. Munn, age 96, passed away Saturday, March 21, 2026.

Ms. Sara was very well known in the community for her crocheting. She donated many of her crocheted blankets to the hospitals, nursing homes and children hospitals. She crocheted until her eyes and fingers failed her. Ms. Sara was 95 years old when she had to quit crocheting.

Survivors:

4 Daughters: Joyce Kinloch (Tom) of Union, Marie Harrison (Danny) of Decatur, Mildred Stephens (Freddie) of Union and Faye Vance (Andy) of Union

5 Grandchildren

9 Great- Grandchildren

She is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews.

Ms. Sara Mae is preceded in death by her husband, Jack T. Munn; two daughters, Becky Munn Stoeber, Reba Herrington, and one grandson, Alec Stephens.

Pallbearers: Grandsons: Ethan Breland, Adam Vance, Clay Thrash, Alan Dear, Riley Thrash and Tanner Fortenberry

In lieu of flowers the family request memorials be made to: The Gideons International (The Gideons International P.O. Box 297, Newton, Ms. 39345).