Cleveland Funeral Home

03/16/2026

03/16/2026

“Preplanning is truly a gift to the people you love. When your wishes are written down, your family doesn’t have to guess what’s right on a very hard day. They can focus on remembering you, supporting one another, and beginning to heal. We’ll walk at whatever pace feels comfortable so your plan reflects your values and your heart.”

Contact us today! Let's us help you help your loved ones! 662-843-2552
When service matters chose Cleveland Funeral Home.

03/13/2026

It's a promise from me to you!

03/05/2026

Rickey Joe Hopper

Rickey Joe Hopper, age 66, of Cleveland, MS, passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at St. Francis Hospital in Memphis, TN.

Born on February 1, 1960, in Cleveland, MS, Rickey was the son of William "Bill" Hughey Hopper and Bettye Jo Tubbs Hopper. He attended Cleveland Schools and later enlisted in the Mississippi Army National Guard, serving for six years. Following his service, Rickey spent some time in Texas, where he worked in the restaurant industry before returning to Mississippi. He built a successful career in printing, having worked at Rhodes Printing, Baxter Laboratories, and a print shop in Clarksdale, MS. Additionally, he contributed to the sales force at Delta Hardware Company and served as a sales representative for Boyle Lumber for 15 years.

An avid musician, Rickey had a passion for traveling and enjoyed singing with his father and friends. He cherished moments spent with his children, particularly as he coached them in their chosen sports. His interests included disc golf, board games, playing dominoes, and occasional hunting trips. Rickey was known for his strong work ethic, love for his family, and his steadfast character. He grew up attending the Church of God of Prophecy, which played a significant role in shaping his spiritual foundation. His presence will be deeply missed by his family, friends and colleagues.

Rickey was preceded in death by his beloved parents and his grandson, Upton Hunter Burchfield. He leaves behind his cherished children: Jerry D. Burchfield of Oklahoma, Ricky L. Hopper (Mariah) of Texas, and Dustin Hopper (Cheryl) of Texas, along with his siblings, William Carl Hopper of Cleveland, MS, and Johna Faye Hopper of Cleveland, MS. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Keigan Hopper, Dustin Tyler Hopper II, Jacey Burchfield, Grayce Hopper, Jerrick Burchfield, Zoey Hopper, Alivia Hopper and his Nieces and Nephews.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM at Cleveland Funeral Home. The Celebration of Life Funeral Service will take place on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the Cleveland Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by Brother Larry Weaver and Brother Joel Hammons. Burial will follow at Lehrton Cemetery in Ruleville, MS.

Pallbearers include Ben Slaton, Bobby Rivera, Zak Walker, A.J. Wilson, Bobby Foster Jr., and Kent Wilburn. Honorary pallbearers are Frankie Roncali, Marty Ross, Marshall Hopper and Timmy Slaton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org.

Cleveland Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of Rickey's family during this difficult time.

View Rickey Joe Hopper's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/02/2026

Sandra Kay Thompson

Sandra Kay Smith Thompson, age 74, of Cleveland, MS, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Delta Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Cleveland.

Born on April 20, 1951, to Charles Smith and Thelma Allen Smith in Cleveland, Sandra grew up in the Skene community and attended Skene Schools. She shared a loving marriage with Emmett Thompson, whom she married on July 27, 1968, and together they built a beautiful life, raising their four children.

A dedicated professional, Sandra earned her LPN license and devoted over three decades of her career to nursing at various hospitals in the area. Above all, Sandra cherished her family, taking great joy in every moment they shared. In her leisure time, she had a passion for playing BINGO and enjoyed the company of friends and loved ones. She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, sister, and grandmother.

Sandra was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Thelma Smith, husband Emmett Thompson, grandson Shane "Brother" Harrison, and sisters Hilda Horne and Patsey Russell. She is surevived by her children, Sandra Kay Nance of Merigold, MS, Nikki Denise Harrison of Cleveland, MS, Andrea Louren Cole (Keith) of Cleveland, MS, Jason Paul Thompson (Memorie) of Merigold, MS, a sister Tobey Sherwood (Raymond) of Cleveland, MS and brother Charles Edward Smith, Jr. (Teresa) of Rosedale, MS.11 grandchildren and a host of great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 AM until 12:00 PM on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Cleveland Funeral Home, followed by a Celebration of Life Funeral Service at 12:00 PM in the Cleveland Funeral Home Chapel. Reverend Ken Harris will officiate the service, and Sandra will be laid to rest at Lehrton Cemetery in Ruleville, MS.

Pallbearers will include her grandsons: Jaxten Milum, Matthew Thompson, Drew Jackson, Max Nance, Trace Harris, Brent Lance, and Lee Townsend.

The Cleveland Funeral Home has the honor of serving Sandra's family during this difficult time, allowing them to celebrate and remember her remarkable life.

View Sandra Kay Thompson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/24/2026

Robert O Love

Robert O. Love, age 76, of Ruleville, MS, passed away on February 23, 2026, at North Sunflower Medical Center in Ruleville, MS.

Born on April 28, 1949, in Doddsville, MS, Robert was the cherished son of Ruben Ottis Love and Ellie J. Ward Love. He completed his early education at Ruleville High School before furthering his studies at Mississippi Delta Community College, where he also played football. Robert later attended Delta State University, though he always found a special place in his heart for the University of Mississippi, cheering passionately for his team.

Robert dedicated several years to coaching at North Sunflower Academy and Pillow Academy, imparting his love for sports and mentoring young athletes. He found immense joy in fishing and enjoyed watching a variety of sports, sharing smiles and laughter with those around him through his vibrant personality.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Ruben and Ellie Love, as well as his sister, Jeri Tribble, and brother-in-law, Bob Shaw. Robert is survived by his sister, Lillian Love Shaw of Greenville, MS; his niece, Teresa Johnson (Van) of Greenville, MS; his nephew, John Shaw (Teressa) of Sallis, MS; his nephew, Dudley Tribble (Jennifer) of Cleveland, MS; along with three great-nephews and two great-nieces who will hold his memory close to their hearts.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 PM on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Cleveland Funeral Home, with a graveside service to follow at 2:00 PM at Lehrton Cemetery in Ruleville, MS. Reverend Thomas Anderson will officiate the service.

Pallbearers will include John Shaw, Dudley Tribble, Van Johnson, Conner Shaw, Judd Tribble, and Levi Tribble.

Cleveland Funeral Home has the privilege of serving Robert's family during this time of sorrow. His memory will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

View Robert O Love's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/23/2026

Joyce Ann Winters

Joyce Ann Cross Winters, 69, of Merigold, MS, peacefully passed away on February 23, 2026, at Walter B. Crook Nursing Home in Ruleville, MS.

Born on May 17, 1956, in Chicago, IL, Joyce was the daughter of Willie D. Cross and Doris Haynes Cross. At the age of two, her family relocated to the Delta, where she grew up and later graduated from North Sunflower Academy. Joyce dedicated many years of her life as a correctional officer with the Mississippi Department of Corrections, a role that reflected her caring nature and commitment to serving others. Known for her selflessness, she always prioritized the needs of those around her.

Joyce had a passion for working in her yard, discovering treasures while thrift shopping, and perfecting her baking skills. Her deep faith was an integral part of her life, and she was an active member of Bethany Baptist Church, where she found community and solace.

Joyce is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Willie D and Doris Cross, and her brother, Norman Cross. She leaves behind a loving family, including her daughters, Andrea Nicole Weeks (Patrick) of Boyle, MS, and Christen Amanda Haire (Dan) of Sidon, MS; her brother, Ricky Cross of Merigold, MS; and her cherished grandchildren: Shelby Lynn Greene, Garrett Greene, Lee Haire, Jack Haire, and Taylor Weeks. Additionally, she is survived by her great-grandchildren, Tyson Muirhead and Waylon Greene, and her loyal canine companion, Lucy.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff at Walter B. Crook Nursing Home, North Sunflower swing bed, and North Sunflower Hospice for the compassionate care provided to Joyce during her time of illness.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Cleveland Funeral Home, followed by a Celebration of Life Funeral Service in the Cleveland Funeral Home Chapel at 2:00 PM. Reverend Howard Beam will officiate the service, and Joyce will be laid to rest at Drew Cemetery.

Pallbearers will include Matt Ray, Nathan Woodward, Jeff Muirhead, Tripp Haynes, Darrel Saxon, and Tommy Smith, with her grandsons serving as honorary pallbearers.

Cleveland Funeral Home is honored to assist Joyce's family during this difficult time.

View Joyce Ann Winters's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/13/2026

02/03/2026

James Everett Henderson

James Everett Henderson, age 82, of Cleveland, MS, formerly of Lucedale, MS, peacefully passed away on January 31, 2026, at Indywood Personal Care Home in Cleveland, MS.

Born on March 14, 1943, in Mobile, AL, James was the son of Everett Henderson and Doris Eubanks Henderson. He graduated from Lucedale High School and later attended Perk Community College. Following his education, James embarked on his career, starting in New Orleans before venturing to California, where he met the love of his life, Patricia "Patty" Coughlin. After several moves, the pair settled in Lucedale. There, James was an active member of St. Lucy's Catholic Church and involved in various community events over the years. With his wife, they created a life full of their beautiful family and cherished friends across the country.

James is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Everett and Doris Henderson; his devoted wife of 48 years, Patricia Henderson; and his sister, Lynn Holland. He leaves behind a loving family, including his children: Allison Koehler (Keith) of Brick, NJ; Aimee Kitching (Hayden) of Merigold, MS; Michael Henderson (Kim) of Atlanta, GA; Jourdan Payne (Adam) of Mobile, AL; and Marcus Henderson of Tucson, AZ. He is also survived by his sisters, Barbara Barnett of Orange Beach, MS, and Martee Gibson (Wayne) of Moss Point, MS, brother in law, John Coughlin (Karla) of Westminster, CA, as well as his cherished grandchildren, Madison and Kyle Koehler; Arin Kelly; Anderson, Asher, and Ansley Kitching; Trevor and Eleanor Henderson; and Jessica McRae. Additionally, he is survived by three great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews who will fondly remember him.

A family memorial service will be organized at a later date to honor James's life and legacy.

Cleveland Funeral Home is honored to serve James's family during this difficult time.

View James Everett Henderson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/30/2026

Billie Rose Flynn

Billie Rose Flynn, 48, of Leflore, MS, passed away on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at St. Dominic Hospital in Jackson, MS.

Born on June 2, 1977, in New Orleans, LA, Billie was the daughter of William Floyd Wallace and Rose Marie Wallace Migliore. Following her early years, she was raised with love and care by her adoptive parents, Paul and Maraget Elizabeth Tingle Williams. Billie moved to Mississippi as a teenager, where she embraced a simple, fulfilling life dedicated to fishing, tending to her yard, thrift shopping, and cherishing her beloved canine companion, Titan. Above all, Billie found her greatest joy in being a devoted mother and grandmother, leaving a remarkable legacy through the children she raised.

Billie is preceded in death by her parents and adoptive parents, as well as her daughter Destiny Whitsell, brothers Tommy Dims and BJ Wallace, and her treasured dog Titan. She is survived by her son Sam Whitsell of Florida, daughters Chelsey Flynn of Duck Hill and Emma-Leigh Flynn of Holcomb, MS, and her granddaughter Adelynn Whitsell. Billie also leaves behind her sisters, Shanon Migliore of Oregon, LaDonna Cruze of Louisiana, Cassie Wallace of Louisiana, and her brother Billy Williams of Arkansas, and life companion Steve Everett, along with a host of nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

A gathering for friends and family will be held at Leflore Cemetery at 12:00 PM on Saturday, February 7, 2026, followed by a graveside funeral service at 1:00 PM, officiated by Reverend Tim Lane.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to Cleveland Funeral Home for their compassionate service during this difficult time. Billie's presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

View Billie Rose Flynn's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/28/2026

Ruth McCollum Cates

Ruth Marion Cates, age 94, of Boyle, MS, peacefully passed away on January 21, 2026, at her home.

Born on April 9, 1931, to Burris Burdell Parish and Elizabeth Franks Parish in Lambert, MS, Ruth was a dedicated worker from an early age as she balanced her education at Drew Schools with helping on the family farm. Her life was filled with love and family, having married James William McCollum and raising ten children together. In addition to her role as a devoted mother, she helped manage a general store and Dorr Flying Service and worked for 20 years with Baxter's Laboratories. Later, she took on the role of manager at the Pocahontas, AR Pizza Hut.

Ruth enjoyed traveling, especially taking cruises with her family and friends, and had a fondness for casino outings. Her hobbies included reading, playing cards, and engaging in friendly games of dominoes. In her youth, she and William participated in dance competitions, earning recognition for their talents. Ruth relished spending time with her grandchildren, and family reunions were cherished events. Her vibrant personality shone through her participation in the Pretty Legs competition, where she also triumphed.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Burris Burdell and Elizabeth Parish; her husbands, James William McCollum and Monroe Cates; sisters Edna Mae Parish, Doris "Dot" Miller, Annie Brower, Gloria Jean Williams, Floy Long, and Hellie Tacker; son Tony McCollum; and grandsons Ronald "Ronnie" Willett II and John Edward Peacock.

She is survived by her children: Bill McCollum (Stella) of Braxton, MS; Shirley Turner of Boyle, MS; Bonnie Willett of Cleveland, MS; Patsy Flautt (Jim) of Greenwood, MS; David McCollum (JoAnn) of Cleveland, MS; Judy Wasson (James) of W. Monroe, LA; Rocky McCollum (Marie) of Hardy, AR, Penny Jones of Biloxi, MS; Kenneth McCollum (Teresa) of Evening Shade, AR; and stepchildren Kathy Cates Lewallen of Jonesboro, AR; Greg Cates of Little Rock, AR; Robert Cates of Washington, DC; and Kim Lawson of Jonesboro, AR. Ruth also leaves behind a remarkable legacy of 36 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren, and 72 great-great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers will include her grandsons: Billy McCollum, Tommy Peacock Jr., Chris McCollum, Rocky McCollum Jr., Jimmy Flautt, and David McCollum II. Honorary pallbearers are James "Jim" Wasson, Jim Flautt, Norman Prewitt and all her grandsons and great-grandsons.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Cleveland Funeral Home, followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 3:00 PM in the Cleveland Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by Reverend Michael Mooneyham. Burial will take place at North Cleveland Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to www.cancer.org.

Cleveland Funeral Home has the profound honor of serving Ruth's family during this difficult time.

View Ruth McCollum Cates's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.