Milam Funeral Home, Inc.

12/22/2025

Milam Minute 12: Embalming Laws Question 🧪

From Reggie: Do I have to be embalmed when I die, even if I don’t want to be?

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Hi Reggie - the short answer to your question is no, absolutely not. Embalming is never required by federal law, though some states or funeral homes may have specific requirements for instances that it must be employed. It is wise to consult your funeral home of choice when making arrangements to understand if they require embalming for chosen services.

When the deceased individual is exposed to the public, embalming is critical as it delays the decomposition process and disinfects the body. Some of the instances where embalming is highly encouraged or required is when a public visitation with an open casket is selected or when the deceased has to travel across state or international lines for services. Other instances when embalming may be required is when refrigeration is not available, though that is not often a predicament in the modern era, or when anatomical donation has been chosen.

In cases of cremation, immediate burial, green/natural burial, burial at sea, and traditional services without an open casket, embalming is not required, so there are many options available to those who wish to decline embalming. No one should feel that they have to select a service that does not align with their values, religious beliefs, or personal preference.

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If you have any end-of-life questions for us to answer, please click the link and fill out the brief Google form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeIdqhtIrTXL08hN3TLluAN0GpIX3TacBXDcJa19RoYjqlUmA/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=105743120442743692654

12/19/2025

Funeral Fact Friday: ‘Funeral’ Term 📝

The word ‘funeral’ wasn’t coined until some time around 1386. Author Geoffrey Chaucer used the term in his novel The Knight's Tale when the main character died, writing "Putte in the fyr of funeral servyse." The word stems from the French word ‘funerailles’ and the Latin words 'funer' and 'funus' which all mean ‘death rites’.

Of course, the word probably existed before this, but this instance was the first time its usage was recorded!

12/18/2025

Donna Irene "Bird" Carter (Riddle), age 90, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2025, at Haven Hospice in Gainesville, Florida.

Born on February 10, 1935, in Greenville, West Virginia, she lived a life marked by compassion, dedication, and quiet strength. Donna was a 1954 graduate of Washington High School in Massillon, Ohio. She remained connected to the Massillon community for many years and was a devoted member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Her faith and commitment to service were evident throughout her life.

She married Louis H. "Bud" Carter in 1956 and together they built a family rooted in love and resilience. Donna was the proud mother of three children: Michael L. Carter (Vikki) of Gainesville, Florida; Peggy A. Lewis (Jay) of Brewster, Ohio; and the late Vicki L. Criswell (Tom). She was also a cherished grandmother to four grandchildren and great-grandmother to three great-grandchildren. Her family was the heart of her world.

Donna’s nurturing spirit extended far beyond her immediate family. For eleven years, she faithfully drove disabled children to school, ensuring their safety and comfort each day. She opened her heart and home to foster babies, providing them with care during their earliest days. As a Cub Scout leader and Girl Scout leader, she guided young minds with patience and encouragement.

Her talents were many—she loved gardening and found joy in tending to her plants; she delighted in cooking meals that brought people together; she sewed with skill and creativity; and she immersed herself in the stories of Danielle Steele novels with enthusiasm. Donna was known for her determination—if she set her mind to something, it got done. Her strength of character left an impression on all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Louis H. "Bud" Carter; her daughter Vicki L. Criswell (Tom); granddaughter Kristeena R. Carter; parents Roy F. Riddle and Marie B. Riddle; and brothers Richard H. Riddle and Ralph Dale Riddle.

Her legacy lives on through those who knew her best—her children Michael and Peggy, their spouses Vikki and Jay, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren—and through the countless lives she touched with kindness. May Donna’s memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Donna was born on February 10th, 1935 and passed away on December 4th, 2025 at the age of 90

12/17/2025

Born in The Bronx, New York July 4, 1977, Jody Diaz was a devoted husband and father who loved spending time with his family. A loving son and brother, Jody cared for his mother in her final years. On December 3, 2025 he passed away in Gainesville, Florida, where he’d lived with his family for more than ten years.

A brilliant engineering mind, Jody forged a career as a structural engineering draftsman; while his focus was on designing houses, he also worked on many commercial projects over more than thirty years in the industry.

Jody enjoyed hiking and camping and spending time in his workshop. A talented carpenter and woodworker, Jody spent much of his free time building furniture, framing his wife’s artwork, and creating pieces to enhance the comfort of his home.

Preceded in death by his parents Pablo Diaz, Jr. and Lillian Rodriguez Geigel, he is survived by his wife, Dawn Diaz-Ruiz, his three children Lilliana, Alicia and Stephen, and four grandchildren.

He is also survived by 3 brothers, Jason, Jesse, and Jared, and was particularly close with his sisters, Jessica (Ron) and Casey (Eric). He was also very close with his godparents, Marilyn and Alan Militscher and their son Andrew.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 18th at 1 pm at Prairie Creek Conservation Cemetery, 7204 SE County Road 234, Gainesville, FL, 32641. For those who wish, in lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Stephen’s college fund or to the family for his future needs and care.

Arrangements are in the care of Milam Funeral and Cremation Services, 311 S. Main Street Gainesville, FL 32601 -(352) 376-5361 - www.milamfh.com.

https://milamfh.com/obituaries/jody-diaz

Jody was born on July 4th, 1977 and passed away on December 3rd, 2025 at the age of 48

12/17/2025

What Do Headstone Symbols Mean? 🪦(Fraternal Organizations 1)

Have you ever explored a cemetery and wondered what all of the different headstone symbols mean? There are many religious, fraternal and organizational engravings that indicate what communities an individual was involved in throughout their life. This recurring series will highlight some of the interesting and unique symbols that one may find in their local cemeteries.

Note: These headstone symbols have variations, so these photos may not be exactly as they are portrayed in every cemetery, especially as organizational logos change over time or vary across different countries, states, and chapters.

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Shriners International
Shriners headstones typically feature a scimitar, a crescent made of tiger claws, and the Star of Bethlehem, often with a Sphinx head as the keystone image within. Other versions may include a pyramid and/or urn as homage to the group’s Masonic roots.

Order of the Eastern Star
OES headstones feature a pentagon and five-pointed Star of Bethlehem. Inside the pentagon is an altar or hammer (a symbol of faith and the “Light of the East”). The points individually represent obedience, religion, loyalty, love and endurance and contain a sword and veil, barley, a crown and scepter, a broken column and a chalice - all ties to biblical heroines.

International Order of Oddfellows
Oddfellows headstones will often portray links of a chain (each representing friendship, love and truth), an All-Seeing Eye (inspired by their link to the Freemasons), a hand with a heart inside (to represent charity), and/or the group’s acronym, I.O.O.F.

12/16/2025

Michael Edward Peace

Michael Edward Peace approached life with curiosity, humor, and a quiet sense of adventure. After the loss of his wife Karin—a sorrow he never truly got over—he put his best face forward, greeting the world with sometimes subdued but heartfelt laughter. During this time, his stories, humor, and generosity shone through, filling the lives of those around him with warmth and care. His family will miss him more than words can express, and we wish we had time to hear every one of his stories.

Michael was born on November 11, 1942, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to Julia V. Peace (née Gubanic) and Leo F. Peace, Sr., both of whom preceded him in death. He grew up in a lively, close-knit family and is survived by his siblings: Leo Peace, Jr. (Diane) of High Point, NC; Barbara A. Peace of Harrisburg, PA; Kathryn N. Nesbitt (Eric) of Harrisburg, PA; and Stephen E. Peace of Harrisburg, PA. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Ametrano of Harrisburg, PA (1997).

While serving in the U.S. Air Force and stationed at Tempelhof Air Force Base in Berlin, Michael met the great love of his life, Karin. They married in 1965, beginning a nearly 60-year adventure together. During his military service, Michael worked on radar systems and traveled across Europe, gathering stories he delighted in retelling for the rest of his life.

After leaving the Air Force with an honorable discharge, he earned an Associate’s Degree then later completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management at National-Louis University. He worked many dedicated years for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a career that took the family to Long Island, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. When he and Karin retired to Ocala, Florida, he soon returned to work as a consultant for the FAA and earned his real estate license, always ready for new challenges.

Michael loved fishing, camping in his RV, and exploring. Europe remained a cherished destination, and one of his favorite places on earth was Lofer, Austria—a town filled with memories of time spent with Karin. He returned there after her passing, honoring those memories while creating new ones of his own.

He is survived by his daughter, Christina E. Beck (John) of Gainesville, FL, and his son Stephen M. Peace (Pamela) of Ocala, FL. He leaves behind five grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy: Tristan J. Beck, Morgan C. Beck, Lincoln W. Beck, Marcus Peace, and Theresa Peace. He also leaves behind his beloved Basset Hounds, Bailey and Charlie, loyal companions who helped him through the loss of his wife.

He will be laid to rest beside Karin in a green burial at Prairie Creek Conservation Cemetery in Gainesville, FL on Monday, December 22, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, Michael asked that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, an organization he greatly valued.

Michael was born on November 11th, 1942 and passed away on November 29th, 2025 at the age of 83

12/16/2025

Eduardo Mondragon, a devoted husband, loving father, and adventurous spirit, passed away peacefully on December 8, 2025, at the age of 72. Born on August 2, 1953, in the heart of Mexico City, Eduardo carried a captivating energy that connected him with every person he spoke with, and ensured he would be remembered long after he left the room.

Eduardo spent his life devoted to the Catholic faith. As the book of Matthew 5:16 says, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” As his family, we had the joy of witnessing this light every day.

After moving to Gainesville, Florida, Eduardo devoted 35 years to Dentistry at the University of Florida, a career he began in Mexico following in his father’s footsteps. He ended his academic journey with a doctorate in dental surgery. Many will remember conversing with him on all things history and geography. Like a walking encyclopedia, it is no surprise that he wanted to be a historian if dentistry did not work out. His love for the world and ability to connect with others stemmed from this deep, inherent curiosity and his fascination with other people's stories.

Eduardo's hobbies embodied his adventurous spirit, often turning the mundane into something worth remembering.

Dancing: He loved to dance merengue, making sure everyone knew how by the end of the night.

Sports: He was a slow and humble opponent until you placed a racquet of any kind in his hand, even when a leg he cannot bend.

Travel and Photography: We cannot believe how many pictures exist of him, Eduardo Jr., and Alan, just living about and enjoying the world. When he wasn’t moving around, he would be found listening to classical music from different countries, watching travel blogs, and learning new photography tricks.

The Early Morning Ride: Looking back, it brings us joy remembering how many people would reach out when they would spot him riding his bike to work. He had a truck, but even in the rain, he just needed that early morning adventure.

At the end of every day at dinner time, Eduardo would share stories from work, often recounting positive messages and uplifting quotes from his boss and finding a way to relate them to the family. Sharing a meal with him was never a quiet event, and it is a vibrant family tradition that will be deeply missed. He taught us the importance of creating quality family time and turning the routine into a moment worth remembering. We are happy he was able to enjoy his life until the very end.

Eduardo was a devoted husband to Maria, his beloved wife, and a loving father to his sons, Alan and Eduardo Jr. Eduardo is preceded in death by his parents Luis and Beatrice Mondragon.

From Alan:
“I am thankful to have grown up with my dad in my life. In our relationship, he was a best friend. In public, we’d always be stopped and praised for our connection and energy as father and son. He was a fun, selfless, old-fashioned guy that always emphasized on keeping the family together. He was nice to everyone he met, and was always connecting with others. I will always appreciate his loving and caring manner, and for always setting high expectations for the entire family. He has taught my brother and I what it means to be a family, how to be a man, and how to manage problems in life. I will remember all of his stories, both the serious and silly ones, even if he always repeated them, as they always came with an important life lesson. Thank you for everything. I will always love you Dad.”

From Eduardo Jr.:
"I think everyone reading this that has met him understands the energy and comfort his presence would bring. I will miss living my life around him. He knew my humor, knew my brother’s, and loved my mom’s. Especially if he started to laugh, it would be a 5-minute ordeal for everyone involved. It was hard to be sad around him, hard to be lazy, and hard to be unmotivated, but never hard to be loved. I owe him so much: for not letting me give up, for the unwavering trust and motivation, and for simply keeping the family together and pushing us along. For making us feel loved and never alone. If you have not met him, I am sure the pictures will let you see who he was to us. We will always remember you and love you pah.”

Services and Memorial
The services for Eduardo Mondragon are under the care of Milam Funeral and Cremation. The funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick Catholic Church on Wednesday, December 17th, at 12:15 pm, followed by a small reception. He will be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery following the reception.

St. Patrick is located at 500 NE 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL, 32601

Evergreen Cemetery is located at 401 SE 21st Ave, Gainesville, FL 32641

Dress Code
There is no dress code, but if you would like to dress for the event, my dad always liked the color blue in honor of the Virgin Mary.

We encourage those who knew and loved Eduardo to share their memories, stories, and photos on his memorial page. Let us come together to remember and celebrate the wonderful, adventurous, and spirited life of Eduardo Mondragon. May his story continue to inspire us, and his love continue to guide us.

Eduardo was born on August 2nd, 1953 and passed away on December 8th, 2025 at the age of 72

12/15/2025

Milam Minute 11: Passing Away from Home ✈️

Question from Stacy: What happens if I die and I’m away from home?

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This is a great question, Stacy - and one that many people don’t consider when pre-planning funeral arrangements. Death can happen anywhere, at any time, and it may result in a complicated situation much like what you are describing. This is a circumstance that happens often enough, and it is one that every funeral home is fully prepared to handle.

If you pass and you are away from your funeral home of choice, a funeral home local to the area of passing will handle making the initial transfer. Both funeral homes will then communicate with each other to work out the logistics of transport (whether it is by car or by plane), refrigeration and/or embalming, and the initiation of death certificates when applicable. Funeral homes are quite used to these situations, so they are able to work together to ensure all aspects of these cases run smoothly. Additionally, there are specific types of insurance offered by some funeral homes or pre-planning agencies that cover deaths which occur away from home. This helps to offset any transportation and extended storage costs that may occur.

As you can see, there are protocols in place for deaths that occur away from home, and it is always recommended that you reach out to your funeral home of choice to understand how they handle these situations.

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If you have any end-of-life questions for us to answer, please click the link and fill out the brief Google form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeIdqhtIrTXL08hN3TLluAN0GpIX3TacBXDcJa19RoYjqlUmA/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=105743120442743692654

12/14/2025

No matter what you celebrate, we hope you have a safe, blessed, and healthy holiday season.

With love,
Your Milam Funeral Home Family 💚

12/12/2025

Amid the candles
and the carols,
we hold a quiet place
for those we miss.
Love does not fade with time.
It settles into our hearts
like a steady light.
May that light guide you
through this Christmas season
with comfort and remembrance.

Thank you to everyone who attended our Service of Remembrance last night. Hearing so many wonderful stories and singing together was absolutely beautiful. Many thanks go out to The Privette Family for performing and Pastor Zach Zedar for the prayers and comforting messages. 🫂

We hope you have all found some comfort and peace this holiday season and we are wishing you endless love and light. 💙🕊️

12/12/2025

Funeral Fact Friday: Rosemary 🌿

Did you know that rosemary was the original funeral flower arrangement? Ancient Romans and Greeks carried rosemary in processions and placed it on the body during funeral rites, while mourners in medieval England tossed sprigs of the herb into graves - both to mask the smell of decomposition and to ward off evil associated with the superstitions of the time.

The Ancient Egyptians used rosemary as part of funerary rites too, but in a slightly different way. Instead of placing it in the grave with the body, rosemary was used as part of the embalming process! 🪴

12/10/2025

Frederick Joseph Latsko
April 4, 1946 ~ December 3, 2025

Frederick “Fred” Joseph Latsko passed away from natural causes at the age of 79 on December 3, 2025.

Fred was born in Gainesville, Florida, on April 4, 1946, to William and Eva Oradell Latsko. He spent his youth surrounded by family and friends, playing sports such as bowling and golf, and taking advantage of the many outdoor opportunities Florida has to offer. He attended Sidney Lanier Elementary, Buchholz Junior High, and Gainesville High School. After high school, he enrolled at the University of Florida, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1976 and later a Master of Arts degree in Educational Leadership in 1988.

Fred joined the U.S. Army in 1970 and was stationed in Seoul, South Korea, before being honorably discharged in 1972. He went on to serve the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office for 33 years, working as a Deputy Sheriff from 1972 to 2005. Throughout his career, he served in various capacities, including jail, road patrol, crime scene investigation, personnel, investigations, the police academy, and accreditation.

Fred enjoyed a wide variety of hobbies that reflected his curious mind and love of friendly competition. He spent many years bowling and golfing, and he loved gathering with friends for a good poker game. At home, he could often be found working through crossword and Sudoku puzzles or relaxing with his favorite home-improvement and cooking shows. Above all, he was a passionate Florida Gators fan and rarely missed a chance to cheer them on.

Fred was a dedicated Mason for nearly fifty years, having been raised to Master Mason at Gainesville Lodge No. 41 in 1976. Over the decades, he served his brothers with distinction in nearly every leadership role, including Worshipful Master, Secretary, Treasurer, and Chaplain. His commitment extended well beyond the local lodge, and he went on to serve as District Deputy Grand Master in 2001, Grand Orator in 2007, and in multiple terms as a District Instructor, as well as Chairman of several statewide committees, including the Committee on Work. He was also a member of the Ocala Scottish Rite, Gainesville York Rite Bodies, Allied Masonic Degrees, and the Gainesville Shrine Club. Fred’s deep love for Masonry was evident in his tireless mentorship, his mastery of ritual, and his steady presence as a leader throughout Florida Freemasonry.

Fred was preceded in death by his brother, Jimbo Latsko, and is survived by Jimbo’s wife, Donna.

Fred is survived by his wife of 55 years, Beverlie Latsko; two children, Mark Latsko (Charlotte, NC) and Elise Latsko (Asheville, NC); and his brothers, Carl Latsko (Pam), Bill Latsko (Linda), and Matt Latsko (Anne), along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Memorial services will be held Sunday, December 14, at 1908 Grand (former Masonic lodge), 215 N. Main St, Gainesville, FL 32601. The program will begin at 2:00 p.m.

Frederick was born on April 4th, 1946 and passed away on December 3rd, 2025 at the age of 79