Brantley-Phillips Funeral Home

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Lawrence Mak BellRev. Lawrence Bell, 85, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on January 11, 2025.A native of Mattaw...
01/13/2026

Lawrence Mak Bell

Rev. Lawrence Bell, 85, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on January 11, 2025.

A native of Mattawamkeag, Maine, Larry was born on February 25, 1940, to Wilfred and Helen Bell. Larry grew up in Maine and joined the army at 18. He then accepted the Lord as his savior and felt the call to ministry. He met his wife Virginia (Mitchell) Bell at Faith School of Theology, married and began their ministry together. They pastored for 37 years at various churches in ME, PA, CT, NY, and MD. Upon retirement from the ministry, he worked for the DeSoto County Sheriff's Department at the courthouse and as bailiff for Judge Couch. After living in SC for a few years he moved back to Hernando in November, the town he called home.

Survivors include his wife Blanche (Pellitier), two daughters,Michelle (David) Pavano and Juanita (Larry) Chamberlin. Two grandchildren Victoria (Garrison) Boling and Larry Chamberlin II. He is also survived by 6 siblings, Angie O'Donal, Mary Magoon, Betty Ann Mason, George Bell, Patricia Bates, Debroah Bell, and his bonus family; three sons Dean Cyr, Gary Cyr, and Scott (Karmin) Cyr. Four grandchildren Rachel Cyr, Brett Green, Brittany Cyr and Lauren (Gage) Winecoff, and two great grandsons, Kayden Cyr and Dalton Lacroix. He was a devoted father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to all.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife of 52 years Virginia Bell, 7 siblings and bonus daughter Gail Cyr.

A service will be held at Brantley Phillips Funeral Home 2470 Highway 51 South, Hernando MS, on Friday, January 16th. Visitation begins at 11:00 with a service at 1:00.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St Jude or the charity of your choice.

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Sherry Lois BerryhillIt is with great sadness and heavy hearts We share the passing of Sherry Lois Berryhill our dear mo...
01/10/2026

Sherry Lois Berryhill

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts We share the passing of Sherry Lois Berryhill our dear mother, wife, and friend. Sherry passed away at home. Now in the arms of Jesus.

She was a loving mother and wife. She loved to cook and we loved her for it. She gave good advice and was known for her tell it like it is attitude. She was so funny and made us all laugh. She loved her children and her church. She was married to Pat for 28 years. She was one of a kind great person. She took care of a lot people while she was here. She loved her church family and friends as well. She liked going to the singing nights. She is survived by her husband Patrick Berryhill, daughters Amber Hotrum and Patience Wilson , son John Cook (Jr) and grandchildren Summer, Emmalee, Cheyenne, Caleb, Tristan, Ariana, and Atlas. Also her brothers Timothy Tubbs and Kenneth Tubbs. She is preceded in death by her parents Edwin and Betty Tubbs.

We love you, Mama!

We will have a celebration of life at her church at a later date.

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James Lee SykesIt is with a heavy heart that we share the sudden passing of our beloved “G’Paw,” James “Jim” Sykes, 62, ...
01/09/2026

James Lee Sykes

It is with a heavy heart that we share the sudden passing of our beloved “G’Paw,” James “Jim” Sykes, 62, known to Elvis fans around the world as “Big Jim.” His infectious smile, larger‑than‑life personality, and unmistakable voice touched countless lives—especially the many Elvis fans who welcomed him into their homes through SiriusXM for the past two decades.

Born in Tampa, Florida, and raised in Paris, Tennessee, Jim discovered his love for broadcasting early in life. He began his career at hometown stations WMUF and WAKQ‑FM, later expanding his reach to Jackson, Tennessee. His natural ease behind the microphone, paired with his deep appreciation for music, quickly made him a standout in every studio he entered.

In the early 2000s, Jim joined the Graceland‑based Elvis Radio channel on SiriusXM, where he became one of its most recognizable and trusted voices. He hosted the afternoon drive show, produced the Friday afternoon TG Sheppard Show, and led several specialty programs, including the popular Elvis Live in Concert. His work connected fans across generations and helped preserve the legacy of Elvis Presley for listeners around the world.

Jim was known for the warmth and enthusiasm he brought to every broadcast. His unmistakable voice, paired with his genuine love for Elvis’s music, made each show feel like a gathering of friends. He created a sense of community for fans everywhere—welcoming callers, sharing stories, and celebrating the music that meant so much to him. His kindness, humor, and passion for radio left an indelible mark on colleagues and listeners alike.

But of all the roles Jim held in his life, his favorite job—by far—was being a G’Paw. Nothing brought him more joy, pride, or purpose. He often said that his family, his kids, and especially his grandbabies—Ava, Garrett, and Amelia—were his greatest blessings and he lived every day proving it.

Beyond the studio and beyond his beloved role as G’Paw, Jim was a devoted friend, loving husband and a man of unwavering faith. He believed deeply in the power of music, kindness, and community to bring people together. His faith was a steady anchor in his life—something he shared openly and often—and it brings us comfort now to know he is exactly where he longed to be, surrounded by peace in the arms of his Lord.

Jim is survived by his wife, Alison Sykes of Southaven, Mississippi; sons Greg Gardner and his wife Brandy of Southaven, Mississippi, and Justin Jayroe and his wife Rachel of Collierville, Tennessee; brother William "Bill" Sykes Jr. and his beloved grandchildren, Ava Grace, Garrett and Amelia. Jim is proceeded in death by parents William Larry Sykes Sr. and Marjorie "Midge" Sykes.

The family will have a Celebration of Life Memorial Service to honor Jim's life at his church at a later date.

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April Dawn Brees RoseApril Dawn Brees Rose, born on February 11, 1981, in Claremore, Oklahoma, passed away on January 6,...
01/08/2026

April Dawn Brees Rose

April Dawn Brees Rose, born on February 11, 1981, in Claremore, Oklahoma, passed away on January 6, 2026, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. She was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, and mother whose life was marked by her deep love for family and her unwavering commitment to helping others.

April's passion for life was evident in her love of travel; she cherished the opportunity to experience different cultures and see the world. Her adventurous spirit and kindness left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of knowing her.

She is survived by her husband, Barry Rose; her son, Austin Lewers; her parents, Ron and Gale Brees; her sister, Lorena Cavnor, and daughters, Jasmine Rose, Lilee Blankenbeckler-Rose and Nina Rose. April's legacy of love and compassion will continue to inspire her family and all who were touched by her warm and selfless nature.

Support in memory of April Dawn Rose http://engdr.co/6-313903

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Sherry Jo HowardSherry Jo Howard, 72, of Byhalia, MS passed away peacefully surrounded by her daughter and son in-law at...
01/04/2026

Sherry Jo Howard

Sherry Jo Howard, 72, of Byhalia, MS passed away peacefully surrounded by her daughter and son in-law at Methodist Hospice House in Memphis, Tennessee on January 3rd, 2026.

Sherry worked in intermodal sales as a dispatcher most of her career. She loved to spend time with her daughter and grand doggies. She enjoyed cooking, reading and playing card games with her late best friend Kay. She also enjoyed spending time with her honorary grandson Wyatt Kelley. She loved to cook his favorite foods for him and always made sure she had BBQ chips on hand for him to snack on.

Sherry was a free spirit with a hippie soul. She loved to laugh and tell jokes. She was always very positive in life and a “stop and smell the roses” type of person. She always told her daughter to “make a memory”. She loved evening sunsets and to go out and look at the moon at night. Sherry will always be remembered for her positivity and kind nature.

She is survived by her daughter Katie Loyd and her son in-law Andrew Loyd of Byhalia, MS. One sister, Barbara Pounders, of Hernando, MS.

She is preceded in death her parents Walker Howard and Winifred (Helen) Patterson. Her brothers Donald Williams, Bobby Dean Williams, William Howard and one sister Marion (Sissy) Creison.

A memorial service will be held at Brantley Phillips Funeral Home in Hernando, MS located at 2470 Highway 51 South on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 1:00 PM with a visitation starting at 12:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to help with funeral expenses.

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James Franklin FlackJames Franklin Flack, affectionately known as Jimmy or "Pee-wee," passed away on January 1, 2026, at...
01/04/2026

James Franklin Flack

James Franklin Flack, affectionately known as Jimmy or "Pee-wee," passed away on January 1, 2026, at Baptist Desoto Hospital in Southaven, Mississippi. Born on September 4, 1946, in Memphis, Tennessee, James lived a life full of passion and dedication to his craft.

As a self-employed paint contractor, Jimmy was dedicated to his craft, pouring his heart and soul into each project he undertook. His commitment to his work was evident in the quality and detail of everything he painted. Alongside his professional endeavors, he had a profound love for the world of Ford Trucks, particularly cherishing his 1978 Ford truck. Jimmy spent countless hours working on old cars and hotrods, finding joy and satisfaction in every repair and restoration.

Outside of his work, James enjoyed the tranquility of nature through fishing and the thrill of hunting, activities that brought him peace and happiness throughout his life. His warmth and generosity will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

James is survived by his daughter, Angelia Flack and her husband Jerald Cannon of Sarah, MS; his sisters, Sharon Newby and her husband Wade of Nesbit, Mississippi, and Deborah Burkeen and her husband Steve of Murray, Kentucky; and his cherished grandchildren, Destiny, Noah, Colton, and Mollie. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren Keira, Cody Jr., Tucker, and Chance, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whose lives he touched.

James was preceded in death by his parents, James and Laverne Flack, and his sister, Belinda Flack. He will be sorely missed but fondly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to share in his life.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Brantley Phillips Funeral Home located at 2470 Highway 51 South in Hernando, MS, followed by a funeral service beginning at 3:00 PM. He leaves behind a legacy of creativity, love, and dedication that will endure in the hearts of those he loved.

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Albert Lamar AblesAlbert Lamar Ables, born on August 11, 1940, in Lexington, Mississippi where he grew up the son of a f...
01/03/2026

Albert Lamar Ables

Albert Lamar Ables, born on August 11, 1940, in Lexington, Mississippi where he grew up the son of a farmer learning the value of hard work and dedication, passed away peacefully at his home on January 2, 2026, surrounded by his beloved family. Lamar was a dedicated and hardworking individual who enjoyed a fruitful career spanning over 40 years. He retired from Turner Dairy in Memphis, Tennessee and previously worked at Midwest Farms Dairy also in Memphis, Tennessee, where he was respected for his strong work ethic and professionalism as a pasteurizer.

Lamar was a proud member of the class of 1961 at Coxburg High School in Lexington, MS. Throughout his life, he was known for his incredible skills and talents, particularly his ability to fix anything, especially lawn mowers. His hobbies included working in the garden, an activity he cherished, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.

Lamar's warm personality endeared him to many, and he was loved by all his coworkers. He had a gift for humor and enjoyed sharing jokes with his family and friends, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter and joy wherever he went.

He was a member of Carriage Hills Baptist Church in Southaven, and previously taught Sunday school at Colonial Hills Baptist Church, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of many young members of the congregation.

Lamar is survived by his cherished wife, Grace Ables, with whom he shared over 62 years of marriage; their daughter, Lisa Taylor and her husband Roger of Coldwater, MS; and their sons, Steven Ables, Keith Ables and his wife Ruth, and Stacy Ables and his wife Paula, all of Southaven, MS. He is also survived by his brother, Tony Ables and his wife Jane. Lamar was a loving grandfather to Joshua Taylor, Nathan Taylor, Andrew Taylor, Robert Ables, Alisa Ables, Meredith Ables, Josiah Ables, Cameron Parrish, and Rachel Spencer, and a proud great-grandfather to Kailey Taylor, Myles Taylor, Hunter Ables, Madison Ables, Abbigale Lawrence, Alieya Wren, Gavin Hale, Alex Quarles, and Aiden Bounds.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dewey and Ruebell Ables, his sisters Fannie Siddon and Rachel Hankins, and his brothers James and Dale Ables. He also mourned the loss of his daughter-in-law, Vickie Ables.

Lamar’s life was well-lived, marked by love, hard work, and a commitment to his community and family. His spirit will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at Carriage Hills Baptist Church, located at 8352 Farmington Dr W, Southaven, MS 38671.

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Donna Carole VanDyke TackerDonna Tacker, a beloved member of the Hernando community, passed away peacefully at her home ...
12/31/2025

Donna Carole VanDyke Tacker

Donna Tacker, a beloved member of the Hernando community, passed away peacefully at her home on December 31, 2025 at the age of 81. Born on January 16, 1944, Donna lived a life marked by love, dedication, and service to her family and community.

Donna was a retired florist and owner of Hernando Flower Shop, she served the Hernando and Desoto County area for almost 50 years in the floral business. Her career allowed her to touch the lives of many.

Donna graduated from Whitehaven High School in 1961. She received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Memphis.

She is survived by her son, Greg Tacker, his wife Nicole and her daughter, Angie Tacker, and her grandchildren, Colin, Daniel and Ethan Tacker, Natalie and Alex Howarth and Cole Tacker.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Nell and Elroy VanDyke, her son Chris Tacker, and her brother, Sam VanDyke

Visitation will be from 1:00 pm until a Celebration of Life Funeral Service beginning at 3:00 pm on Sunday, January 4, 2026 at Brantley Phillips Funeral Home, located at 2470 Hwy 51 S, Hernando, MS. Interment will follow at Christian Church Cemetery located at 2 Getwell Rd in Hernando.

Memorials can be made to the Interfaith Council on Poverty, Post Office Box 424 Hernando, MS 38632, or the Junior Auxiliary of Desoto County, Post Office Box 103, Hernando, MS 38632.

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Keith Alexander AgnerKeith Alexander Agner, born on November 18, 1962, in Hammond, Indiana, passed away at his home in S...
12/30/2025

Keith Alexander Agner

Keith Alexander Agner, born on November 18, 1962, in Hammond, Indiana, passed away at his home in Southaven, MS on December 29, 2025, at the age of 63. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Keith was known for his kindness, generosity, and love of family.

A proud graduate of Southaven High School's Class of 1981, Keith dedicated most of his career to Auto Zone, where he served as a Claims Manager and Parts Sourcing expert. He took great pride in his work, building lasting relationships with colleagues and customers alike, which reflected the essence of his character.

Alongside his professional accomplishments, Keith possessed a wide array of interests. He loved playing golf, fishing, and camping, often cherishing these moments spent in nature. Known for his enthusiasm, he was an avid supporter of the Dallas Cowboys and the Memphis Tigers, a passion that friends and family fondly remember. In honor of this love, attendees are encouraged to wear blue to his service.

Keith's legacy is illuminated by his significant role as "Poppy" to his cherished grandchildren, with whom he shared countless unforgettable moments. His proudest accomplishments include the joy he brought to their lives, always eager to support and create memories that would last a lifetime.

Keith is survived by his loving wife, Saundra Agner; his son, Anthony Agner of Southaven, MS; and his daughters: April Stamps of Hernando, MS, Polly Rhodes and her husband Joshua of Southaven, MS, and Amber Lea Gray and her husband Andrew of Tupelo, MS. He also leaves behind his step-mother, Shirley Agner; his sisters-in-law, Sue Neighbors and Karen Agner ; as well as his grandchildren Chyenne, Glen, Ryleigh, Addison, McKenzie, and Ethan, and great-grandchildren Caspian and Henley. Alongside family, Keith is remembered fondly by nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were touched by his warmth and spirit.

Preceding him in death are his father, Robert Eugene Agner; his mother, Cora Oglesby; his daughter, Courtney Agner; his daughter-in-law, April Agner; his son-in-law, Terry Stamps; and brothers Bill Agner and Bob Agner, all of whom he missed dearly.

Visitation will be held at Brantley Phillips Funeral Home in Hernando, MS, on Friday, January 2, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM. The gathering promises to be a time of remembrance and celebration of a life well lived, reflecting the love and joy Keith Agner brought to those around him.

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Wayne Anthony Bockhold Jr.Wayne Anthony Bockhold Jr., born on September 29, 1966, in South Bend, Indiana, passed away on...
12/29/2025

Wayne Anthony Bockhold Jr.

Wayne Anthony Bockhold Jr., born on September 29, 1966, in South Bend, Indiana, passed away on December 28, 2025, at Diversicare of Southaven. He worked as a warehouse forklift operator at Whole Foods most of his career.

Wayne is survived by his father, Wayne Bockhold Sr., of Memphis, Tennessee; his sisters, Kaylynn Barlow and her husband Earl of Memphis, Tennessee, and Veronica Vazquez of Horn Lake, Mississippi. He cherished his role within the family and is also survived by four nieces and five nephews who held a special place in his heart.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda Ross, and a sister, Sally. Wayne also mourns the loss of his son, Steven Heath, who had a profound impact on his life.

The family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date, reflecting on the memories and legacy Wayne leaves behind. His kindness, dedication, and love for his family will forever be remembered.

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Margaret Sue CothernMargaret Sue Cothern, affectionately known as Sue, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2025, at t...
12/27/2025

Margaret Sue Cothern

Margaret Sue Cothern, affectionately known as Sue, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2025, at the age of 83. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, on November 27, 1942, she lived a life marked by dedication, warmth, and the joy of family and community.

Sue had a fulfilling career as a retired adjuster for the Internal Revenue Service, where she showcased her commitment to service and accuracy. Her professional life was complemented by her personal pursuits, particularly her love for bowling, which she enjoyed with family and friends. These moments were a testament to her vibrant spirit and the happiness she found in shared experiences.

She received her education from Humes High School in Memphis, Tennessee, where she laid the foundation for a life of learning and strong values. Sue was known for her caring nature and her ability to connect deeply with those around her.

Sue leaves behind her loving family, including her sons Mike Cothern of Horn Lake, MS, and Jerry Cothern and his wife Judy of Lake Cormorant, MS. She was a cherished grandmother to Garrett, Lacey, Morgan, Cortney, and Derek, who will carry forward her legacy of love. Sue also took immense joy in her role as a great grandmother to Skyler, Jersey, and Brookie.

Sue was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John R. Cothern, who undoubtedly held a special place in her heart. She is also survived by the cherished memories of her parents, Andrew Jackson Lantrip and Lucy Lantrip, and her siblings, E.J. Lantrip, Jesse Woodroe Lantrip, Eva Doris Milam, Geneva Swift, Joe “Bitty Boy” Lantrip, Willie Turner “Dub” Lantrip, Ruby Turner, Bobbie Jean, Ella Faye, Juanita Jablouski and Wesley Garland.

Visitation services for Sue Cothern will be held on December 29, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Brantley Phillips Funeral Home in Hernando, MS. This will be followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM.

Sue's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of kindness, commitment to family, and joy in life's simple pleasures will continue to inspire those left behind.

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Katie Sue JeffriesKatie Sue Jeffries, born on December 4, 1962, in Memphis, Tennessee, passed away on December 21, 2025....
12/23/2025

Katie Sue Jeffries

Katie Sue Jeffries, born on December 4, 1962, in Memphis, Tennessee, passed away on December 21, 2025. She dedicated most of her career to serving the community through her work in Customer Service at Chick-fil-A, where her warm demeanor and commitment to excellence made a lasting impact on both colleagues and customers alike.

Katie's educational journey began at Fairley High School in Memphis, Tennessee, where she laid the groundwork for her future endeavors. Her life was marked by her relentless dedication to service and her ability to connect with people, traits that defined her both personally and professionally.

She is survived by her son, Matthew Rodriguez of LaGrange, Georgia, along with her siblings: sister Karen Lantrip and her husband Keith of Horn Lake, Mississippi, and brothers Kenny Abston of Nesbit, Mississippi, Keith Abston of Como, Mississippi, and Kelly Abston of Sarasota, Florida. Katie was also a cherished grandmother to her grandchildren Paige, Mason, Logan, and Clayton, who brought immeasurable joy to her life.

Katie is predeceased by her husband, James Mike Jeffries, who held a special place in her heart, as well as her father, George Thomas Abston, her mother, Donna Moffett Abston, and her brother, Kevin Abston.

A Celebration of Life service will be held in her honor on January 3, 2026, at West End Church, located at 7180 Goodman Rd, Walls, Mississippi, with the event starting at 2:00 PM. Friends and family are invited to join together to celebrate the significant impact Katie had on their lives and to remember the light she brought to this world.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the West Cancer Foundation. https://westcancerfoundation.org/

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Address

2470 Highway 51 S
Hernando, MS
38632

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 4pm
Thursday 9am - 4pm
Friday 9am - 4pm

Telephone

+16624296262

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