Milam Funeral Home, Inc.

02/13/2026

Surrounded by loving family, Judy Trotta died peacefully at home February 3, 2026, from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Throughout her struggle with the disease, she maintained a wonderfully positive attitude and was well prepared to die.

Judy was born in Saranac Lake, New York to Elizabeth Duckett Trotta and Robert Trotta. The Trotta family settled in Miami, Florida while Judy was still an infant. She attended Saint Rose of Lima Catholic School and graduated from North Miami High School. She met Bob Stone in 1985 and they married July 4, 1987. Judy had recently discovered hiking and camping, and soon became an enthusiastic member of the Florida Trail Association (FTA). Bob introduced her to a world of traditional music and dance and they enjoyed many good times dancing and sharing live music with friends. Judy earned a baccalaureate degree from Florida International University by attending night classes.

Following their passions, in 1989 Judy and Bob made bold career changes and moved to Gainesville. Judy served as administrator at the FTA headquarters office and Bob quit his engineering job to work as a folklorist for the Florida Folklife Program. They were living their dream. Judy lovingly supported Bob in his new career—a change he simply could not have managed without her.

A few years before retiring from the FTA, Judy served as a dedicated volunteer at the Haven Hospice Care Center. After retirement from FTA, she worked for Haven Hospice in the development department. She became a Master Gardener, making dozens of new friends and colleagues, learning about plants and growing them, and enthusiastically shared her knowledge with others.

Judy loved people and made friends quickly wherever she went. She lived by the old adage, “People may not remember what you say, but will never forget how you make them feel.” A diagnosis of ALS strengthened her resolve to make the most of life, forgive the human frailties of herself and others, and radiate positive energy. She was an amazing, loving human being. Judy learned years ago that she was the only person who determined how happy she was, a realization that guided her daily life.

Judy is survived by her husband Bob, sister Loraine Melero, nieces Debbie Metzkes, Janet Kinghorn, Chrissy Lawrence, and Karen Miller, nephew Michael Toledo and a number of grand nieces and nephews.

Milam Funeral Home provided funeral service arrangements. In lieu of flowers, consider donating to Alachua Conservation Trust, Florida Trail Association, or Prairie Creek Conservation Cemetery.

Judith was born on September 7th, 1946 and passed away on February 3rd, 2026 at the age of 79

02/12/2026

Shirley Jean McMath, 89 passed away peacefully at Haven Hospice in Gainesville, Florida on February 5th, 2026. She was born in Corning, AR to the late Harold and Rudie Vines on November 12, 1936.

Shirley loved quilting and sewing and was a member of the Tree City Quilters Guild in Gainesville for many years. She also enjoyed cooking, traveling, reading, arts and crafts, and spending time with family and friends.

In addition to her parents, Shirley was also preceded in death by her husband Connie McMath and her brother Ronnie Vines.

Shirley is survived by her children Jan Secor (John), Jeff Ward (Estelle), and Brian Ward (Heather), her five grandchildren Krista Jackson (Brian), Kelley Cole, Joshua Ward, Owen Ward, and Cody Ward, along with her two great grandchildren Theo and Quinn Jackson.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made in Shirley’s honor to the Humane Society of North Central Florida, 4205 NW 6th Street Gainesville, FL 32609. https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/hsncf/memorialperson

https://milamfh.com/obituaries/shirley-mcmath

Shirley was born on November 12th, 1936 and passed away on February 5th, 2026 at the age of 89

02/11/2026

https://milamfh.com/obituaries/beatrice-newsome

Beatrice “Bea” Newsome, 98, a longtime resident of Gainesville, Fl. passed into heaven on January 27th with her daughters present. Bea was proud to be a true Floridian who was born and raised in Jacksonville, Fl.

Bea was retired from St. Patrick Interparish School, and she worked parttime at the University of Florida Athletic Association ticket office. She was a longtime member of St. Patrick Catholic church and a devoted member of the Associate Sisters of St Joseph in St. Augustine.

She is preceded in death by her husband Thaddeus Hill Newsome.

Her greatest achievement was raising five daughters. She and dad emphasized our Catholic faith and our education. She taught us to love reading, singing, sewing, gardening, baking and to love God, Family and Country.

Bea is survived by her daughters Theresa Daly and husband Edward, Marianna Panzik, Frances Lapinsky and husband Jerry, Michelle Schmidt and husband David, Sheila O’Hara and husband Brad. She is also survived by her sister Joan Marie Nelson and husband Gene. She was Granny to 10 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren.

The family will have a memorial Mass in memory of Beatrice at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Gainesville, FL. on Thursday, February 19th at 1:00. A rosary will be prayed at 12:30 at the church. The family will have a private interment in Guyton, GA on February 21st.

In lieu of flowers, the family would suggest a donation to St. Patrick Catholic Church in Gainesville, Fl. https://spccgnv.org/online-giving-2/

Beatrice was born on December 1st, 1927 and passed away on January 27th, 2026 at the age of 98

02/10/2026

Frank Edward Miller, 59, passed away on February 4, 2026. Born on August 2, 1966, in Louisville, Kentucky. Frank was the son of Gerald Virgil "Jerry" Miller, Sr. and Mary Anita Smith Miller. A proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Frank served his country with honor across California, Alaska, Oklahoma, and South Carolina.

Frank’s life was defined by his devotion to family, his never-ending passion for his wife and travel partner, Cathy, and his appreciation for life’s simple pleasures: a good pizza, a cold beer, and the Louisville Cardinals. He found immense joy in traveling with Cathy as his co-pilot, seeking out scenic views and local breweries, and cherishing time spent with those he loved.

Frank is survived by his best friend and wife of 35 years, Catherine Stanley Miller. He was a proud father to his two sons, Christopher (wife Stephanie), 33, of Charlotte, and Ryan, 29, of Gainesville. His spirit carries on through his brother, Matthew; his sisters-in-law, Carol, Maria, Sue, and Jeanne; and his brothers-in-law, Glen and Bill. He is also survived by his nieces, Megan (husband Luke), Erin (husband Noah), Morgan (husband Zach), Madeline, and Bobbie; and his nephews, Jason (wife Gina) and Alan (wife Tara).

He now rests eternally in Heaven, reunited with his mother, Mary; his father, Jerry, Sr.; his brother, Jerry, Jr. and his many loved ones.

His love, laughter, and cherished memories will live forever in our hearts.

Frank was born on August 2nd, 1966 and passed away on February 4th, 2026 at the age of 59

02/07/2026

In loving memory of a much-loved husband, father, brother, and friend, Jeffrey Joseph Duncan. Jeffrey, or “Jeff”, was born on October 1, 1961. Jeff was the youngest of six, and according to his sister, he truly lived up to the role -- getting away with just about everything, being the baby. Jeff was never afraid to do things, and to fight for the things he wanted. He lived for the people he cherished. Jeff did not like school very much and he was very free spirited, adventurous, and inquiring. Growing up, he loved kickball, climbing trees, swimming, sledding, and especially fast cars. Jeff also liked staying up and was the life of the party.

Curiosity became one of Jeff’s signature traits. He loved disassembling things, seeing how they worked, then putting them back together again. He wanted to learn about everything. He liked to build models too. When Jeff got his first job at a car dealership, he found his calling. His straightforward personality and his desire to help people made others naturally gravitate toward him wherever he went.

Jeff was known for his humor and playful spirit. Even as a kid, he loved to joke and prank. One time, Jeff sneaked mashed potatoes into his brother’s shoe to help his sister escape the dinner table, as their mother had said that they were not to leave the table until all the food was done.

He loved Christmas, pool games in the basement, and teasing his siblings. Despite being the youngest, Jeff assumed the role of big brother upon the passing of their father.

Jeff was also a loyal friend and coworker. His long time friends would say Jeff was someone who would do anything for you, always willing to help no matter the situation. Moreover, they described him as a straightforward, honest, and deeply respected person. Customers loved dealing with him because he always did everything possible to have them taken care of.

Jeff was truly a family man. He always took care of his family as much as he possibly could. He made sure to do little things like making coffee, turning the car around, and starting the boiling water for his wife in the morning so that she won’t have to do it. He would also help out his step-children to the best of his ability, such as changing oil for his step-daughter’s car, teaching his step-son how to do stuff around the house, or asking them about school and their days. Jeff liked to decorate the house with lights, plants, or a “mini beach” -- things that the family could enjoy together. He enjoyed sweet pastries, boat trips, and golf. He also loved his dogs. Jeff’s wife called him “Big Man” because he deserved that name in every circumstance.

Jeff wanted to spend many more years with his wife and children. He sought to live a happy life with his family after retiring, but cruel sickness cost him the battle. On Thursday, January 29, 2026, Jeff passed away at UF Health Shands hospital. A viewing service was held on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at Milam Funeral and Cremation Services (311 S Main St, Gainesville, FL 32601).

Jeffrey was born on October 1st, 1961 and passed away on January 29th, 2026 at the age of 64

02/06/2026

We have some exciting information for our regular Milam Minute readers: we’re working to upgrade our Milam Minute column in the print edition of the Main Street Daily News!

Once we get an official timeline for our column and where to find our new articles in the paper, we’ll update our page. Until then, we will post backlogged articles and work hard to develop new content for our readers. You can support us by submitting deathcare questions to be answered in our brand new column by scanning the QR code or clicking the Google Forms link: https://forms.gle/7FiXBWuEooEneZKL8

Thank you always for your continued support of Milam Funeral Home and our educational outreach initiatives. We hope you will like what we have in store for 2026.

- Ashtyn Davisson, Milam Minute Editor and Licensed Intern

02/05/2026

Lucille “Ceel” Lane of Gainesville, FL, was born on December 4, 1934, in Bridgeport, Connecticut. She lived to be 91 years young at her passing on February 2, 2026.

Lucille was nothing short of an amazing woman. She graduated from Stratford High School in Connecticut where she was on the basketball team, was voted “most likely to succeed”, and was valedictorian of her class. She bravely went south to Durham, NC to attend and graduate in 1956 from Duke University with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. Soon after graduation she married her classmate, Dr. James “Jim” Lane, and worked briefly as a supervisor in a silver-plating factory but then began her second career as a full time “Mama” to their children, carrying the load as “Papa” Jim served his country as a US Marine Corp pilot in Cherry Point, NC. They moved to Raleigh, NC soon after the birth of their second child for Jim’s PhD in Civil Engineering at NC State, and then briefly to Columbia, MI for his post-doctorate work. After this, they put down roots in Temple Terrace, FL and bought their first home. Along with raising children and cooking up fabulous meals, Lucille became active in the League of Women Voters, sometimes taking her children to protests during the teacher strikes. Her parenting was the perfect balance of structure yet allowing her children the freedom to develop their unique personalities. She unwaveringly supported many activities including a wide variety of academic pursuits, swim team and a multitude of other sports, innumerable land and sea creature pets, magician training, Boy and Girl Scouts, and a cornucopia of musical and artistic endeavors.

When her marriage to Jim ended, Lucille re-entered the work force as an ophthalmic photographer. Her self-taught expertise with a camera and innate photographer’s eye led to amazing portraits of many, including her thirteen grandchildren. Her love of adventure drew her to hobbies such as riding motorcycles from South Florida to Myrtle Beach, scuba diving throughout the Caribbean, and earning her captain’s license, sailing the Gulf waters in hers and many other salty friends’ sailboats. Once, when her motor failed, she had the exceptional skill to sail back into the marina and her slip without bumping a boat or a boardwalk.

Lucille’s next career was in real estate, eventually using her analytical skills full time as a real estate appraiser in Tampa. Still practicing at age 70, she moved her business to Gainesville, FL to be closer to her grandchildren, spending many hours on country roads in her succession of luxury European cars. She became active in the community, serving on a city board and engaging in the arts community. She was a talented tennis player, traveling with her team to tournaments across the state and eventually to the Super Senior National Tournament. Her Gainesville grandchildren were often recruited to help tend her yard full of lovely camellias, paid in part with her favorite beverage--Coke in a glass bottle.

Lucille is preceded in death by her parents Virginia Rita Rickel Uhlrig and Harry William Uhlrig, and her sister Joan Uhlrig. She is survived by her four loving children, Julia Stevens (Scott), Frances Lane, Henry “Hank” Lane (Elizabeth), and Carl Lane (Elizabeth), her grandchildren Carolyn Duggan (Ian), Laura Stevens, Sarah Berro (Michael), David Stevens (Meaghan), Cameron Wylde (Victoria), Luke Meyer, Claire Meyer, Arianna Lane, Ethan Lane, Aidan Lane, and Connor Lane, and her great-grandchildren Lane and Margot Duggan. The family is especially grateful for her longtime companion and caregiver, Aurora Davis.

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM Friday, February 6 at Prairie Creek Preservation Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, family and friends are welcome to contribute to the Alachua Conservation Trust at www.alachuaconservationtrust.org or St Francis Veterinary Care at www.StFrancisVetCare.org.

https://milamfh.com/obituaries/lucille-lane

Lucille was born on December 4th, 1934 and passed away on February 2nd, 2026 at the age of 91

02/04/2026

Linda “Polly” Breeden, 70, of Newberry, Florida, passed away on January 23, 2026, surrounded by the family she loved so dearly.

Born on June 24, 1955, in Greenville, South Carolina, Polly was the daughter of the late Rev. Joe O. Johnson and Lavada (Luckie) Johnson. Her life was defined by two unwavering pillars: her deep Faith and her devotion to her Family. Polly’s greatest joy was found in the simple moments of togetherness. She was happiest when her home was full, gathering her entire family on the porch after sharing a meal for stories, teasing and laughter. An avid lover of the outdoors, she enjoyed gardening and admiring the beauty of nature and the birds that visited her yard.

Polly is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 50 years, Eddie L. Breeden. Her legacy lives on through her sons: Joseph (Adam) Breeden and his wife, Rachel; and James (Kyle) Breeden and his wife, Brittany. She was a proud grandmother to Logan, Camron, Hannah, and Marquis.

Polly also leaves behind her sisters, Lola Johnson, Jeanne Stanley (husband Glen, children, Bobbie and Alan) and her brother JO Johnson (wife Pam, children Hendrix and Megan).

Her warmth, loving dedication to her family and spirit of hospitality will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Polly was born on June 24th, 1955 and passed away on January 23rd, 2026 at the age of 70

02/03/2026

Delaware Jackson Tate III, 70, of Gainesville, passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026, at his residence surrounded by his wife, children and grandson.

Dan was born in Merced, California on June 7, 1955, raised by Delaware Jackson Tate Jr and Ann Tate. After graduating high school, Dan joined the US Air Force and served his country for 4 years. After his time in the Air Force he enrolled in school to pursue his goal in Biomedical Engineering. He later accepted a position at Shands Hospital where he was employed as a Clinical Engineer for 42 years. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing golf, poker, cribbage and riding his motorcycle. Above all he cherished spending time with his family. He is preceded in death by his father, and brother, Chuck Wright.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Fran and his children; DJ, Joey, Becky, Sean. His mother Ann, sisters Missy and Kim, and his brother Mike. As well as Becky’s partner Chris, Sean’s wife Missy and his grandchildren Brannon, Jackson, and Colton.

A Celebration of Life Service for Dan will be held from 2:00pm-5:00pm, on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Milam Celebration Center, 22405 W Newberry Rd., Newberry Fl, 32669. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Milam Funeral Home and Cremation, 311 S Main St., Gainesville, Fl 32601, (352) 376-5361. Please leave words of love and comfort for the family at www.milamfh.com

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project.

https://milamfh.com/obituaries/delaware-tate-iii

Delaware was born on June 7th, 1955 and passed away on January 23rd, 2026 at the age of 70

02/02/2026

Dorothy “Dot” Forrester Stout, age 87 of Gainesville, FL passed away on January 28, 2026. She was born in Richmond, VA on May 26, 1938, to Rev. Richard Forrester and Agnes Halford.

Dot graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University as an Occupational Therapist who did parts of her fieldwork in Hawaii and Maryland. After her children were born, she transitioned to homemaker. As her children grew, she kept herself busy with the Dental Wives Guild, volunteering in the community and the occasional part-time job.

On a snowy night in Baltimore, she met her future husband Dr. Frank W. Stout. They exchanged vows on July 27, 1968. They lived briefly in Cleveland, OH and Charleston, SC before settling down in Gainesville, FL in 1972.

Dot was a long-time member of Trinity United Methodist Church, enjoying time and fellowship with her many friends in the Fisherman Sunday School class and the church in general. She was active with several committees and helped with the Stepping Stones Preschool program.

She and her husband, Frank, developed, owned, and operated the Garden of Love Pet Memorial Park in Micanopy, FL from 1980 – 2002.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, Frank W. Stout, her brother, Richard H. Forrester Jr., and her son-in-law, Timothy G. Hare. She is survived by her son, Frank William “Bill” Stout Jr. of Gainesville, FL, her daughter, Diana Stout Hare and her grand-daughter, Autumn Rayne Eisenhauer, both of Columbus, GA as well as her step-grandchildren (Abigail, Joshua, Gina, Steven, Ryan), many nieces and nephews, and countless furbabies. All of whom she held dear to her heart.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Dot's memory to The Alachua County Humane Society (https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/hsncf/memorialperson) or Trinity United Methodist Church (https://pushpay.com/g/trinitygnv?src=hpp).

Burial will be private. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 AM Wednesday February 4, 2026 at Trinity United Methodist Church 4000 NW 53rd Avenue Gainesville, FL 32653.

https://milamfh.com/obituaries/dot-stout

Dot was born on May 26th, 1938 and passed away on January 28th, 2026 at the age of 87

02/02/2026

What Do Headstone Symbols Mean? (Military Emblems 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 symbols may vary depending on the date in which the headstone was erected, as these symbols are updated or replaced by newer logos after some time. Some symbols may also be displayed as a metal marker or plaque adjacent to a headstone or added superficially onto it, rather than engraved directly into the stone.

• • • • • •

Paratrooper / Airborne Forces
Paratroopers are light-infantry soldiers who are trained to deploy in forced-entry operations to secure regions and gather intel. Their emblem features wings (symbolizing flight) and an open parachute to represent the courage and skills needed for this job. Stars and wreaths above the emblem indicate ranks and jumps completed.

Military Intelligence Corps
The Military Intelligence Corps (MI) is an Army branch that provides strategic information and electronic surveillance devices to support commanders in their decision-making. The dagger, sun and rose symbolize secrecy, omniscience, loyalty, vigilance and danger. Their slogan “Always Out Front” may be written beneath the emblem.

Seabees
The Seabees are a U.S. Navy construction battalion formed in 1942 that provide critical infrastructure-building and necessary maintenance to both combat and humanitarian regions. These emblems may be accompanied by slogans like “We Build, We Fight” or “Can Do!”

• • • • •

02/02/2026

Mark Symoens was a man who believed in the value of a job well done and the joy of a long ride. Born in Racine, Wisconsin, on March 26, 1975, Mark carried a distinct charisma and an infectious sense of humor that defined his life. He was a man of action and intellect, known just as much for his sharp mind as for his compassionate heart. To those who knew him, Mark was a steady source of positive energy and a friend you could always count on.

"The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existence." Albert Einstein’s words perfectly captured Mark’s approach to the world. He was a lifelong learner who was happiest when he was uncovering how things worked. As a Maintenance Supervisor at AYR Wellness Inc., he was a cornerstone of his team, blending an innovative spirit with deep technical mastery. His academic achievements at Santa Fe Community College, earning dual degrees in Biomedical Engineering Technologies and Business Administration with high honors and a 4.0 GPA, were a testament to his dedication and his constant drive to understand the world around him.

When he wasn't solving problems at work, Mark was often found tinkering with gadgets, adding to his collections, or finding peace on his motorcycle. He had a deep appreciation for the mechanics of the world and the simple freedom of life on the road. Yet, the center of Mark’s universe was always his family. He is survived by his daughter, Sarah (Dakota) Kernahan; his mother, Darlene Symoens; and his siblings, Jodi (John) Payne, Richard (Michelle) Heusdens, and Michael Heusdens. He was preceded in death by his father, Carlos Quintanilla.

A visitation will be held at Milam Celebration Center, 22405 West Newberry Road, Newberry, Florida, 32669, on Tuesday, Feb 3, 2026, at 11:00 am EST. The interment will take place at Laurel Hill Cemetery, 14028 SW 174th St, Archer, Florida, 32618, at 12:00 pm EST on the same day. The services are under the diligent care of Milam Funeral and Cremation Services.

We invite everyone who was touched by Mark's vibrant spirit to share their memories and upload photos to his memorial page. Celebrate Mark's life by remembering the laughter he shared and the quiet pride he took in everything he fixed or built.

Mark was born on March 26th, 1975 and passed away on January 27th, 2026 at the age of 50