Wright & Ferguson Funeral Home

03/06/2026

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It is with profound sadness and tender hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Bertha Cornelia Cox Rather, who left this world on March 1, 2026, cradled by the love of her life, in her 90th year. Born on January 3, 1936, in the quaint town of Edwards, Mississippi, Bertha's life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family and friends.

Bertha was the cherished daughter of the late Robert Edwin Cox Sr. and Bessie Louise Cox. She was predeceased by her beloved parents and her siblings: Shelby, Robert Jr., Frank, William, Lamar, Marvin, Billy Ruth, and Betty Jean. Yet, her legacy of love and warmth continues through her surviving family members: her devoted husband of 67 years, Charles Lewes Rather; her adored daughter, Shelia Lewes Rather Wesson and husband Joel Wesson; her treasured granddaughters, Shelby Lewes Wesson Silva (Skylar), Jaci Ashlyn Wesson Altamuro (Drew), and Ainsley Joelle Wesson; and her precious great-grandchildren, Rylee Lewes Kailani Silva, Leilani Stella Rei Silva, and Colton Andrew Altamuro. She is also survived by her dear brother, Jimmy Dale Cox, alongside a host of cherished nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends whom she regarded as family.

Bertha's life was a testament to the power of love and commitment. She met Charles in 1956 and they were married on June 20, 1959, at Edwards Baptist Church, the very place where their love story began. Together, they joyfully welcomed their daughter in 1963, nurturing a close-knit family that would grow to include three granddaughters and three great-grandchildren, each of whom she adored profoundly.

A proud graduate of Edwards High School, where she excelled in varsity basketball, Bertha continued her education at Hinds Junior College. Her professional journey led her to a fulfilling career at Eaton Aerospace Corporation, where she dedicated over 30 years of exemplary service before retiring. Throughout her life, Bertha was an active and devoted member of Edwards Baptist Church, where she found great joy in teaching Sunday school and participating in community activities.

Bertha's zest for life was unparalleled. She was an avid storyteller, a lover of history, and an enthusiast of life's simple pleasures. She found joy in tending to her day lilies, playing cards with friends and family, and relishing adventures, whether it was a spontaneous drive to enjoy a cold orange crush or a lively fish fry. Her goofy sense of humor, coupled with her readiness to help anyone in need, endeared her to all who knew her.

A service to celebrate Bertha's remarkable life will be held on March 7, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Wright and Ferguson Funeral Home, located at 201 Hinds Blvd, Raymond, MS with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. before the service. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Bellevue Assisted Living for their tender and compassionate care during Bertha's final months and to Wright and Ferguson for their kindness and professionalism during this difficult time.

As we bid farewell to our beloved Bertha, Or "Bowie" to her grandchildren, we hold her memory close, cherishing the laughter, love, and warmth she bestowed upon us all. Her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends, forever remembered and always loved.

An online guestbook is available at www.wrightferguson.com

02/24/2026

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Bobbie Hutchison Horn, 87, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loving family. Bobbie was born to the late Redmond B. Hutchison, Sr. and Idelle Rowland Hutchison. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Redmond B. Hutchison, Jr., and her sister,

02/24/2026

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Billy Bradford “Brad” Hall, 67, passed away on February 20, 2026. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 with visitation beginning at 12 noon before the service at Wright & Ferguson Funeral Home in Clinton.

Brad was born in Jackson, Mississippi and attended Council Magnolia High School. He got his bachelor’s degree from Mississippi State University.

He spent much of his life fixing things. Sometimes working on industrial machines, sometimes getting through DIY home renovation projects, sometimes other people’s problems. He spent 8 years working in Mexico for Packard and retired after 15 years working for Nissan Motor Company. He spent every bit of energy that he could muster finding ways to contribute to the world and the people around him.

Always a selfless man, even to a fault. Without hesitation, always put his family, friends, neighbors, strangers first. He supported every interest his kids ever had. He provided, loved, and protected unconditionally.

He loved watching M*A*S*H, enjoying family card games, visiting with his children, and cheering on Mississippi State football and the Saints.

Brad was preceded in death by his father, Billy O. Hall.

He is survived by his wife of almost 28 years, Melissa Sue Ryan Hall; his sons, Justin Christopher and Benjamin Bradford; his daughter, Bella Rose; his mother, Opal Box Hall. He is also survived by his sister, Christy Lee Kindred (Steve); and numerous nieces and nephews.

An online guestbook is available at www.wrightferguson.com

02/21/2026

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Deborah Eaves, 71, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her family on February 17, 2026. Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. Saturday, February 21, 2026 with visitation beginning at 10:30 a.m. at Wright & Ferguson Funeral Home in Raymond. A graveside service will follow at Raymond Cemetery.

Debbie was born on January 10, 1955 in Jackson, MS. She graduated from Provine High School. During her career she worked at Sherry’s Daycare and later retired from the Hinds County Public Works as an administrative assistant. Her two main passions in her life were God and rescuing animals.

Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Bernice Eaves.

She is survived by her sisters, Geraldine E. Hester of Clinton, MS and Glenda G. Taylor of Florence, MS; her brother, Robert Michael Eaves (Catherine) of Pearl, MS; and numerous nieces and nephews.

02/18/2026

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Willard Albert Ryan, age 91, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026, surrounded by his daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was born on May 3, 1934, in Vicksburg, MS, the fourth of eight children born to J.C. Ryan Sr. and Esther Mae Ryan.

On August 16, 1957, he married the love of his life, Fanelle Hilton Ryan, at Central Baptist Church in Little Yazoo, Mississippi. Together they built a life centered on faith, hard work, and devotion to family.

Willard owned Brookhaven Pump and Supply Co., an oil well subsurface supply company, where his strong work ethic and integrity earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike. In addition to his professional life, he was deeply committed to his community. He served as Alderman and Alderman at Large in Clinton, MS and was a faithful member of Morrison Heights Baptist Church.

He found great joy in playing guitar, big game hunting and cattle farming, but nothing brought him more happiness than his family. His favorite memories were made on family vacations and during Christmas celebrations surrounded by those he loved. Each year, he faithfully took his three daughters and seven grandchildren on vacation, creating traditions and memories that will be cherished for generations. His lake house at Eagle Lake in Vicksburg, MS served as a beloved gathering place for weekends and holiday celebrations, filled with laughter, stories and togetherness.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Fanelle Hilton Ryan; his parents, J.C. Ryan Sr. and Esther Mae Ryan; his brothers, J.C. Ryan Jr., Charles Ryan, Garvas Ryan, and Alton Ryan; and his son-in-law, James Babb.

He is survived by his three daughters, Beverly Ryan Babb, Kristy Ryan Long, and Tangela Ryan Rankin; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. His family was the center of his life and his greatest joy.

Willard’s legacy of faith, dedication and unwavering love for his family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

The family will celebrate Willard’s life on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at Wright & Ferguson Funeral Home in Clinton, Mississippi. A visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service. Willard will then be laid to rest at Central Holmes Cemetery in Little Yazoo, Mississippi.

An online guestbook is available at www.wrightferguson.com

02/12/2026

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Sylvia Myers Parrish, age 97, passed away on February 11, 2026, at home in Florence, MS. Sylvia is survived by daughter, Teresa Ann Berry grandchildren Chase, Angel, Misty, and Wendy son, Kerry Virgil Parrish and wife Mary Ann grandchildren, Dustin and Justin 7 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great gra...

02/10/2026

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Today we are here to honor and remember my son, Colby Alford. Colby was 20 years old, and in those 20 years, he touched more lives than most people ever do in a lifetime. From the moment he came into this world, he was deeply loved and he gave that

01/29/2026

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Johnny Harrold Hardacre passed away on January 21, 2026.

Born on March 15, 1952, to Tom and Addie Hardacre of Flora, MS, Johnny was a devoted husband to Rita Burton Hardacre for 52 years. He is survived by his three children, Shaunesti Richardson, Jason Wesley Hardacre, and Melissa Weems (Eric); his four grandchildren, Austin Hardacre, Addie Richardson, Jaylee and Dillon Weems; his beloved dog, LULU; his sisters, Ollie Glascoe, Ann Wilmouth, and Opal Murphy (Michel); and his brother, Jimmy Hardacre (Marie).

Johnny had a deep love for hunting, tending to his cows and chickens, and spending hours talking with friends. He truly never met a stranger.

A memorial service will be held on January 31, 2026, at Franklin Baptist Church, located at 2222 Cox Ferry Rd, Flora, MS. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, with the service starting at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Johnny’s memory to Bethel Cemetery 117 Purvis Rd Flora, MS.

An online guestbook is available at www.wrightferguson.com

01/25/2026

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Pamela Thomas Ellis, age 79, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2026, leaving behind a life marked by her spirited nature and a deep love for her family and beloved animals.

Life with Pam was never dull and she was truly one of a kind. She was known for speaking her mind and being unapologetically herself. She lived boldly, loved fiercely, and left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Pam is survived by her husband of 56 years, Wayne—the love of her life and the center of her world; her devoted son, David; and her treasured grandchildren, Mallorie and Mason. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Suzanne, whom she carried in her heart every day.

Pam found her greatest peace at her lake house, where her spirit felt most at home. She was an avid Elvis Presley and Saints fan, as well as a devoted animal lover with a soft heart for every creature she encountered. Pam will be deeply missed, and her legacy lives on in the stories that will be told, the Elvis music that will be played, and the family and friends she loved so dearly.

In honor of Pam’s love for animals, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to ConcordiaPaws.com in Ferriday, Louisiana, a place she cherished and generously volunteered her time, or to any animal rescue or shelter—just as she would have wanted. A Celebration of Life will take place on February 1, 2026, at the Old Capitol Inn in Jackson, MS starting at 2:00PM.

An online guestbook is available at www.wrightferguson.com

01/20/2026

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Samantha Diane Purvis was born on November 15, 1993 and went to be with Jesus on January 18, 2026. She lived 32 years with cerebral palsy, seizures and many other medical issues. She may not have always been able to verbalize things but she was always able to get her feelings across. The years spent hearing I and nana and bubba and hey there will always be treasured memories for her family. She had the most beautiful blue eyes and a smile that would light up a room. She loved all her family with all her heart, but her two brothers and mother were her world. She was truly a one of a kind.

She was a loved daughter, sister, and aunt. There will always be a hole in our hearts without her but we rejoice in knowing she is running and laughing and completely healed. Also in the fact we will see her again soon in heaven with all our loved ones gone before. We will always love our Sammy Sue!

Samantha is survived by her mother Kimberly Purvis, brother Tim Purvis, brother Ben Purvis and his wife Hailey Purvis and nephew River Purvis, grandfather Homer Purvis, and a host of aunts, uncles and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her grandmother's Lucretia Purvis and Diane Purvis and niece Josie Rae Purvis.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at Franklin Baptist Church in Flora with visitation beginning at 9 a.m. A graveside service will follow at Bethel Cemetery.

An online guestbook is available at www.wrightferguson.com

01/14/2026

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Billy Ray Po***ck Local Auto Executive Born February 1st, 1932, at home in Jackson, MS, to Mr. and Mrs. L. E. Po***ck Sr. Attended Jackson Public Schools starting with Galloway Grammar, Bailey Jr. High, and graduated from Jackson Central High School, Class of 1950. Soon after graduating high school,...

01/07/2026

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Kimberli (Kim) Gordon Yelverton, 64, of Raymond, MS passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026 surrounded by loving family and friends.

Kim was born March 15, 1961 in Vicksburg, Mississippi to Robert (Bob) and Sandra (Sandi) Gordon. She attended Halls Ferry Elementary, St. Francis Xavier Elementary, Warrenton Elementary, Warren Central Jr. High, and graduated from Warren Central High School in 1979. Afterward, she attended Hinds Community College, Mississippi State University and later earned a degree in Education from Mississippi College. Before earning her degree, she pursued part time teaching assistant roles in the Clinton Elementary School system. It was there, through the encouragement of other teachers who saw her potential, that she decided to obtain a degree in Education and make it her life’s work. Like her mother, she was a gifted and natural born teacher.

She joined Mt. Salus Christian School in 2001 where she taught Kindergarten for 23 years before retiring in 2024. She had a heart for Christ, a gift for teaching, and a passion for reaching the minds of little children. She lived a faithful life for Jesus Christ her Lord and used her gift of teaching to lead her students toward Him. Her enormous impact for good on the lives of her family, the many children she taught, and people she met will only be fully revealed in time and eternity.

She was married to her loving and devoted husband, Timothy (Tim) Lynn Yelverton, and they enjoyed 43 years together. They resided in the Clinton/Raymond, MS area where they raised their two sons, Matthew and Connor. She attended Wildwood Baptist church and was an active member within the congregation for 32 years.
She was given the name “Kimi” by her granddaughter Everly and later followed by grandson Logan. Nothing brought her more joy than spending time with her grandchildren. Her generosity and willingness to help others was remarkable. She was loved by all who knew her as well as those she had just met. Her kindness was a defining characteristic of who she was as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her smile was contagious, and her selflessness was profound. She will be missed immensely.

Kim is survived by husband Tim; sons Matthew and Connor Yelverton (Kailyn); grandchildren Everly and Logan Yelverton; parents Bob and Sandi Gordon; brothers Trey Gordon (Karen), Todd Gordon (Cheryl), Scott Gordon (Rhonda) and Hayden Gordon; nieces Amber Gordon, Hannah Gordon, Kayli Claire Thompson; and nephews Hayes Gordon, Channing Gordon, John Gordon.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Wildwood Baptist Church which includes: Visitation from 11:30-1:00; service from 1:00 to 2:00; graveside and burial to follow at Lakewood Memorial Park at 2:30. Carpooling is recommended as parking at the church may be limited. Flowers are welcome; however, donations to Batson Children’s Hospital of Mississippi at UMMC in lieu of flowers is also welcomed.

An online guestbook is available at www.wrightferguson.com