Nancy Aldridge
Nancy Aldridge Hughes, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at her residence on March 2, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on April 14, 1947, in Mississippi, Nancy was a radiant soul whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Nancy began her working career in 1966 at the telephone company, with an unwavering commitment that showcased her dedication and work ethic. In 1984, she transitioned to the Tishomingo County News, where she devoted 34 years of her life, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of her colleagues and the community. Her career was defined by her passion and connection with those around her.
In her personal life, Nancy was a fervent supporter of her family, a role she cherished dearly. She shared 56 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Jimmy Hughes. Together, they created a home filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Nancy was proud of her daughter, Emily Hughes, and welcomed Eddie Williams into the family with open arms. The joy of being a grandmother radiated through her as she doted on her grandson, Jordan Waldrop, and reveled in every moment spent with her great-granddaughter, Aubree Waldrop.
Nancy’s interests were as vibrant as her spirit. She was an avid NASCAR enthusiast, finding excitement in the thrill of the races. Her love for fishing and gardening brought her peace and satisfaction, as she nurtured both flora and fauna with care. A devoted member of Eastport Baptist Church and the Gideon’s Auxiliary, her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and enriching her relationships.
Her family remembers her not only for the love she provided but also for the lessons she imparted through her spirit of service and community involvement. Nancy had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel welcome, offering love, support, and encouragement throughout her life.
Nancy is predeceased by her parents, Homer and Ruby Warhurst Aldridge, as well as her sister, Shirley Sue, and her brother, Michael Philip. While they are deeply missed, the legacy of love and strength Nancy leaves behind will live on in her family.
As we gather to celebrate Nancy’s remarkable life, we invite friends and loved ones to join us at Eastport Baptist Church in Iuka, Mississippi, on Saturday, March 8, 2025. The Celebration of Life will begin at 4:00 PM, as we reminisce, honor, and embrace the beautiful memories she shared with us. Cutshall Funeral Home in Iuka, MS is entrusted with the arrangements.
Nancy Aldridge Hughes will be forever cherished in our hearts. Her giving spirit and unyielding love will continue to inspire those who knew her, and her memory will be a perpetual source of comfort.
Donations may be made in Nancy’s honor to the Gideon’s International at https://friendsofgideons.org or God’s House of Hope at https://www.ghohnettleton.com/donate.
Virginia Mae Powell Bennett
Virginia Mae Powell Bennett was born March 26, 1948 in Tishomingo, MS to the late Ben Ellis Powell, Sr and the late Nina Mae Powell. She resided in the Carter’s Branch Community. Virginia, a retired school professional, has been a strong pillar of the community for over the past 50 years. Possessing a strong compassionate and love for children, she began her career serving the community at Carter’s HeadStart inMidway MS. She was hired as an aide and was promoted to teacher, and later as a head teacher. In this leadership role she was highly respected and established a good rapport with the community. She also created a bond with the children that to this day the bonds remain strong. Ms. Bennett retired from Tishomingo Middle School in 2013 as the cafeteria manager. During her past years, she volunteered with the Carter’s Branch 4-H Club, served on the Board of Directors for NMMC Iuka from 1999-2010, served as the chairman for TCEPA 4th District Power Board Election, 2020 Grand Marshall for Tishomingo Christmas Parade and a very strong supporter of the Tishomingo County Special Olympics. After her retirement, she did what she loved “cooking” and serving the community with her unselfishness deeds. She was known for her mouth-watering desserts especially her caramel and strawberry cakes and chocolate pies. Virginia was humble and always willing to help those in needs. She was a great example of a hardworking woman and encouraged everyone that all things are possible with Christ. She was a dedicated and positive individual. Virginia was a caring and gentle person who has shown not only her family but everyone in her presence the example of living through Philippians 4:13 – I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Ms. Bennett pride and joy was her only grandson, Tre’. He was her sunshine on her cloudiest days.
Virginia confessed her faith in Jesus Christ at an early age; and was a member of Carter’s Branch Missionary Baptist Church in Tishomingo MS under the leadership of the late Rev S.W. Shinault; the late Rev Dennis Rainer and current Pastor Anthony Welch.
Virginia Mae Powell Bennett, 76, died Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at her residence after a sudden and brief illness. She was surrounded by her loved ones.
She leaves her cherished memories to her son, Sidney Doran Bennett from Tupelo, MS; daughter, Regina D Bennett (Jeff Durham) of Tishomingo MS, and grandson, Martraevious (Tre’) Grizzard also of Tishomingo MS.
Survivors also include four brothers – George (Luevenia) Powell, Ezekiel “Tuffy” (Edna) Powell, John “Mickey” Powell and Bob (Mildred) Powell all of Tishomingo, MS. Three sisters – Marvilean (Joann) Selby of Jackson, Michigan; Christine Southward and Margarete (Willie) Robinson of Tishomingo Mississippi. One brother-in-law Houston Southward, Cherokee Alabama and sister- in-law Ila Powell of Tishomingo, MS. A very special cousin, Donald Ray Thomas Chief of Police of Belmont. A host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Proceeding her death were her parents, two sisters Mary (James) Robinson and Earnestine Southward. Three brothers – Ben Powell, Jr, Willis Gene (Louise) “Brother” Powell and Tommie (Myrtis) Powell all of Tishomingo MS. In laws – Gernice Powell and Rev Jimmy Southward also of Tishomingo MS.
Pallbearers- Marcus Robinson, Donald Ray Thomas, Timothy Southward, Jeff Durham, Lance Hollingsworth and Cleveland Southward
Honorary Pallbearers – Ben Hall, Payton Robinson, Logan Robinson, Wayne Thomas, Stephen Powell and Jeiron Jones.
Lois Jackson Bailey
Lois Jackson Bailey, a beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2025, at Tishomingo Manor Nursing Home, leaving behind a legacy filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Born on April 25, 1941, in Blackland, Mississippi, Lois’s life was a testament to the values of family, faith, and kindness.
Lois was a devoted member of the Burgess Creek Freewill Baptist Church, where she found community and connection. Her unwavering faith and warmth resonated with all who knew her. A skilled seamstress and lover of the outdoors, she often spent her time sewing beautiful creations, enjoying camping trips, and relishing every moment she could with her beloved grandchildren. Her dedication to her family was evident in every act of love she bestowed upon them.
She is survived by her two loving daughters, Vickie Glasgow (Brendix) and Tanya Sartain, who were both a source of great pride and joy to her. Lois’s grandchildren—Mackenzie Sartain, Chad Sartain (Keisha), Cody Sartain (Nicole), Chasity Moore (Kirk), Brittney Cutshall (Alan), Bailey Edwards (Drew), Taylor Epperson, and Bryce Epperson (Molly Nash)—were the lights of her life, and she poured her heart into each of their adventures and achievements. Lois was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Aaron, Bentleigh, Baylor, Emmalynn, Gunnar, Scarlett, Cody, Maverick, Emma, Lila Kate, Will, Jackson, and Loden, who brought her immense joy and fulfillment.
Lois shared many fond moments and created beautiful memories with her siblings, Linda Clark, Pamela Pounds, Anita Hardin (Alan), Delores Hester (Randy), and Paula Jackson. She also cherished her many nieces and nephews, who were fortunate to experience her nurturing spirit and the joy she brought into their lives.
Her spirit now rejoices in eternal peace, reunited with her late husband, Billy C. Bailey, her daughter, Cindy Epperson, and her parents, James Elton and Mary Florence Brooks Jackson, as well as her siblings, J.T. Jackson, Tony Jackson, Phillip Jackson, Patricia Thornton, and Demois Gallahar, whose memories will live on in the hearts of those she touched.
Cutshall Funeral Home in Iuka, MS is entrusted with the arrangements. Visitation will be held at Cutshall Funeral Home in Iuka, MS on March 8, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again at Burgess Creek Freewill Baptist on March 9, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, where family and friends are invited to celebrate her life. The funeral service will follow at 1:00 PM, leading to her final resting place at the Burgess Creek Freewill Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Lynell Bailey, Jamie Epperson, Chris Clark, Cory Clark, Kirk Moore, Alan Cutshall, Randy Hester, and Bryce Epperson. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Mackenzie Sartain, Chad Sartain, Cody Sartain, Bryce Epperson, Drew Edwards, Jackson Moore, and Aaron Sartain.
Lois Jackson Bailey will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her love, laughter, and unwavering spirit will forever echo in the hearts of her family and friends, guiding them through every step of their journeys.
Marty Finch Stanford
Marty Finch Stanford, 68, of Iuka, MS, died Friday, March 7, 2025, at the North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo. He was born July 12, 1956, to Clarence and Fannie Stanford. Marty was a member of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, as well as planting his fruit trees. Most of all, he loved spoiling his two grandsons.
Marty leaves behind by his wife since August 14, 1976, Terry Luttrell Stanford, and their daughter, Courtney Stuart and husband, Jamie. He is also survived by his grandsons, Jackson and Hunter Stuart; three sisters, Shirley Hagood, Connie Dillard, and Shelia Robbins (Clyde); a brother, Johnny Stanford (Teresa), a sister-in-law, Lynn Stanford; and a brother-in-law, David Luttrell (Deb). He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Fannie Stanford; his father-in-law, Billy Joe Luttrell; his mother-in-law, Mary Faye Luttrell; three sisters, Frances Rast (Austin), Marie Durham (Charlie), and Sue McKee; two brothers, MacArthur Stanford and Howard Stanford; and two brothers-in-law, Paul Hagood and Lawrence Dillard.
Cutshall Funeral Home of Iuka is entrusted in arrangements. Visitation is scheduled for 5:00 until 8:00 p.m., Saturday, March 8, at Cutshall Funeral Home in Iuka. Funeral services are scheduled for 3:00 p.m., Sunday, March 9, at Cutshall Funeral Home Chapel in Iuka, officiated by Bro. Mike Haynes. Interment will follow in Rutledge-Salem Cemetery. Pallbearers include Mike Bridges, Jackson Stuart, Hunter Stuart, Rueben Massey, Wesley Watson, Casey Stanford, Austin Rast, and Richie Rast. An online guest book may be accessed at http://www.cutshallfuneralhome.com.
Jerry Don Pagitt
Jerry Don Pagitt, a revered resident of Iuka, passed away on March 5, 2025, at the North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo. Born on May 28, 1961, in Texas, he journeyed through life known for his dedication, accomplishments, and profound sense of community.
Jerry enjoyed a successful career as a proud partner in several car dealerships before his well-deserved retirement. His professional life was marked not only by success and entrepreneurship but also by an unwavering commitment to customer service and community engagement.
Beyond his career, Jerry had a passionate love for the outdoors. He cherished hiking, particularly at Tishomingo State Park, where he could immerse himself in nature. A devoted hunter, Jerry relished the thrill of deer hunting, which he embraced as a cherished activity. His compassion extended beyond personal pursuits; he was very active in animal rescue groups, reflecting his empathy and dedication to the welfare of animals. Jerry was also of the Baptist faith which was evident in his character and his love for helping others.
Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Tamara “Tammy” Pagitt; his daughter, Holly McMeans and her husband, Cody; and his cherished granddaughter, Sailor Grace McMeans. He also leaves behind his brother, Steve Pagitt and his wife, Cindy; his sister, Donna Richardson; and several nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James Robert and Elzada Clark Pagitt, and his sister, Rhonda G. Pagitt. Jerry’s legacy of generosity, passion for the outdoors, and love for his family and community will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Cutshall Funeral Home in Iuka, MS is entrusted with the arrangements. Visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, March 11, 2025, from 12:00 P.M. until 1:00 P.M. at Cutshall Funeral Home. Services will be on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at 1:00 P.M. at Cutshall Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by Bro. Neil Edmondson. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery.
Donations may be made in Jerry Don’s honor to Lead Me Home Rescue in Corinth, MS at https://www.leadmehomerescue.com/.
Ronald Leslie “Ronnie” Fulghum
Ronald Leslie “Ronnie” Fulghum, age 74, of Booneville, Mississippi, passed from this Earth on March 15 at Tishomingo Manor Nursing Home. Ronnie spent many years as a Scout Master with the Yocona Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Ronnie was proud of being an Eagle Scout since 1966, receiving the Order of the Arrow in 1962 and the Founders Award in the Order of the Arrow in 1984, receiving the Silver Beaver in 1996 and his service as Director and staff of COPE courses at Camp Yocona.
Ronnie is survived by his wife of 22 years, Debora Fulghum of Booneville; his two daughters, Courtney Smith and husband, Jason of Talladega, Alabama, Cassy Fulghum of Iuka; his two stepsons, Ryan Glass and wife, Amber, of Oxford, and Shane Glass of Booneville; and his granddaughter, Katie Glass of Booneville.
Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie Fulghum and Lota Fulghum and his sister, Gloria Fulghum.
McMillian Funeral Home of Booneville is entrusted with arrangements. A graveside service will be held on Monday, March 17, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. at Booneville City Cemetery. The family would like to thank the staff of Tishomingo Manor Nursing Home for the love and care they gave Ronnie during his extended stay, Gentiva Hospice staff for the wonderful care they have given him during the past year, and to their family and friends for the calls, text, thoughts and most importantly the many prayers from all over the world. It is those prayers that have kept us going during the last few days.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations in memory of Ronnie Fulghum to Tishomingo Manor Nursing Home, 230 Kaki Street, Iuka, MS 38852, Natchez Trace Council of the Boy Scouts of America, 505 Air Park Road, Tupelo, MS 38801 or Tishomingo County Foster Rescue, P. O. Box 444, Iuka, MS 38852.
Jimmy Wayne Gortney
Jimmy Wayne Gortney, age 73, passed away March 11, 2025, at his home in Tishomingo, MS after a long battle with congestive heart failure. Jimmy was born October 27, 1951, to James Coleman Gortney and Eula Vee Bryant. He began working for Hiwasee Land Company for 25 years. Then he became a truck driver until he retired. He enjoyed spending time with family, going out to eat fish, deer hunting and working his garden. Jimmy is survived by his daughter, Glenda Duranceau (Troy); two stepdaughters, Angie Whitehurst and Kim Puckett; six grandchildren, Morgan Benefield (David), Samantha Carithers (Jason), Mckenzie Stroud (Channing), Riley Budny, Blaine Bailey and Reese Whitehurst; six great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Wanda Gortney; parents, James Coleman Gortney and Eula Bryant. Visitation will be Sunday, March 16, 2025, at Ludlam Funeral Home, Iuka, MS beginning at noon until 2:00 p.m. Funeral Service will follow visitation at 2:00 p.m. at Ludlam Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will be in South Crossroads, Tishomingo, MS. Ludlam Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Jimmy Wayne Gortney. You may leave your condolences online to the family at http://www.ludlamfuneralhome.com.
Jane Dotson
Jane Dotson, age 61, passed away Sunday, March 16, 2025, at her home. She was born May 11, 1963, to Donnie and the late Madrid Amerson of Fulton. She worked many years at Burnsville Elementary School and had a special place in her heart for children. Jane enjoyed reading, gardening and being with her friends and family.
Funeral services will be Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at Berea Church of Christ, Burnsville, MS beginning at 2:00 p.m. with Bro. Haskell Sparks officiating. Visitation will be prior to funeral services beginning at noon. Interment will be in Little Flock Cemetery, Burnsville, MS.
She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Ricky Dotson; father, Donnie Amerson; sons, Bud Dotson (Emily); Wes Dotson (Sarah Beth); four grandchildren, Ben Dotson, Mina Raye Dotson, Greer Dotson and Eady Dotson.
She was preceded by her mother, Madrid Amerson. Pallbearers include Brett McMeans, Greg Venetta, Bob Wright, Ed Felks, Heath Johnson and Will Wright. Honorary pallbearer will be Rick Wixon.
Ludlam Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Jane Dotson. You may leave your condolences online to the family at http://www.ludlamfuneralhome.com.
Eloise Browning Dover
Eloise Browning Dover, 86, of Allsboro AL, passed away Tuesday, March 18, 2025. The funeral service was held on March 22, at Morrison Funeral Home, Cherokee, AL.
Eloise was a member of Allsboro Methodist Church. She retired from Genesco Shoe Company in Iuka, MS. She then worked as Bookkeeper for Cherokee Water and Gas.
Eloise was a loving and devoted wife and mother. Eloise was preceded ih death by her son, Mike Dover, her Parents, Howard and Daisy Browning, and 4 siblings.
She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Marvin T. ( Sonny) Dover, son Jeffery K. Dover (Michelle), brother Jolene Browning ( Debbie), step grandchildren, Breanna Sullivan (Stone) and Kyle Rutland (Katelyn), 3 great grandchildren, Harper, Jack, and Samuel, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers include : Matthew Bates, Alexander Bates, Benny Hearn, Thomas Woodis, Rheo Dover, David Browning, Malcolm Waldrep, and David Woodis..
Honorary pallbearers were Benny Parrish, Donnie Jose, Larry Parker and Johnny Hayes.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Allsboro Cemetery Fund @ 5965 Allsboro Road, Cherokee AL 35616
Nancy Joyce Robinson Brinkley
Nancy Joyce Robinson Brinkley, 82, of Iuka, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2025.
Nancy was born on November 7, 1942, to Willard and William Herbert Robinson in Sheffield, Alabama. Nancy was a beacon of kindness, a friend to all, and a soul whose warmth and generosity touched every life she encountered. She retired after 28 years of service with the Mississippi State Department of Health and was an active member at Iuka Baptist Church. Nancy served as a county committee member for the Farm Service Agency, secretary of the NEMJC Alumni Association, and bailiff of the East Iuka voting precinct. Some of her fondest memories involved her bridge club. She was a beloved member of the community, known for her joyful spirit, loving heart, and life of service.
Nancy is survived by her children, Frank Mhoon Brinkley, Jr. (Melanie) and Amy Brinkley Speegle; her grandchildren, Anna Beth Crump (Nathan), Frank Mhoon Brinkley, III, Beth Brinkley Morgan (Lane), and John Garrison Dooley (Emma Claire); her great-grandchildren, Charlotte and Jameson Crump; and her beloved first cousin, Sue Hamm. Nancy was preceded in death by her infant daughter, Laura Frances; her husband, Frank Mhoon Brinkley, Sr.; her father, William Herbert and mother Willard Frances Hamm Robinson.
Cutshall Funeral Home of Iuka, MS, is entrusted with arrangements. Visitation is scheduled for 4:00 until 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 25, at Iuka Baptist Church, and will continue from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the church on Wednesday. Funeral services are scheduled for 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, March 26, at Iuka Baptist Church, officiated by Bro. Johnny Hancock. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery.
Pallbearers include Frank Mhoon Brinkley, III, John Garrison Dooley, Nathan Crump, Lane Morgan, Carter Haines, and Chuck Clark. Memorials may be made the Iuka Baptist Church. An online guest book may be accessed at http://www.cutshallfuneralhome.com.