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Roy Michael JenningsRoy Michael Jennings, born on April 23, 1951, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026. He was a che...
03/10/2026

Roy Michael Jennings

Roy Michael Jennings, born on April 23, 1951, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026. He was a cherished son, father, brother, and grandfather who dedicated his life to serving others. Roy proudly served in the military, a testament to his unwavering commitment and dedication. After his military career, he worked as a small engine mechanic.

He is survived by his beloved sons, Jay (Donnie Ann) Jennings and Derrick (Connie) Jennings, who carry forward his legacy of strength and compassion. Roy took great joy in his role as a grandfather to Coy (Brent) May, Kelly (Parker) Shurden, Emma Jennings, Lauren Jennings, and Paden Jennings, and he found immense pride in being a great-grandfather to Jennings May. Roy is also survived by his sister, Gayle (Doug) Crump, and his brother, Skipper (Bessie Ann) Jennings. Together, they created lasting memories that will forever be cherished.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Milburn and Eunice Jennings, and the mother of his children, Beth Jennings. Their influence on his life remains a source of strength for his family.

A visitation will be held on March 12, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Houston Funeral Home. This will be followed by a funeral service on the same day, starting at 11:00 AM and concluding at 12:00 PM.

Roy Michael Jennings will be remembered for his profound love for family, his commitment to service, and his unwavering spirit that touched the hearts of many.

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Virginia Clytee HesterVirginia Clytee Hester, age 91, passed from her earthly home on Monday, March 9, 2026. She was bor...
03/10/2026

Virginia Clytee Hester

Virginia Clytee Hester, age 91, passed from her earthly home on Monday, March 9, 2026. She was born Virginia Clytee Brock on May 11, 1934, to Jack and Ruby Parks Brock. She worked as a secretary for the MS Forestry for 25 years before retiring. Clytee was a member of Friendship Baptist church but had been attending Parkway Baptist church recently.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Houston Funeral Home with Dr. Randy Rinehart and Bro. Fred Hartley officiating. Visitation will be from 5-7 PM, Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Houston Funeral Home. Burial will follow the service at Houston City Cemetery. Houston Funeral Home is honored to serve the Hester Family.

Clytee is survived by her children, Vicki (Jerry) Smith and Chris Hester both of Houston, MS; and her sister, Jackie Hughes of Tupelo, MS.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Edward Hester; parents, Jack and Ruby Brock and her siblings, Joyce Myatt, Hazel Harmon, Danny Brock and Billy Brock.

Clytee was full of life and loved with her whole heart. She will be missed by many.

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Bobbie Jean WilliamsWith grateful hearts for a life well lived, we celebrate the life of a beloved matriarch, Bobbie For...
03/09/2026

Bobbie Jean Williams

With grateful hearts for a life well lived, we celebrate the life of a beloved matriarch, Bobbie Forrest Williams, who passed away at the age of 98 on March 8, 2026. She leaves behind a legacy that spans five generations. Her celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Houston Funeral Home at 12:00 PM with Bro. Eddie Wiggs and Bro. Jerry Walls officiating. Visitation will be from 11:00 till time of service and burial at Memorial Gardens in Houston, MS.

She was born on February 17, 1928, in Calhoun County to Edward B. and Joyce Cole Forrest. She later moved to Houston with her husband, Jess, to begin a new chapter of life together. It was there that they helped build the foundation and legacy of Forrest Auto Parts, a place that became not only a family business but also a gathering place for friendships and community.

She was a devoted wife and a loving mother of two children, a proud grandmother of four grandchildren that called her "BobBob", a cherished great-grandmother of eight, and a great-great-grandmother to seven. Her family was her greatest joy, and "BobBob" took pride in being present for every stage of their lives.

In her earlier years, she never missed a single ballgame her grandchildren played. Whether it was hot summer evenings or cool fall nights, she was always there cheering them on from her chair, faithfully keeping score in her own little notebook.

She also loved her time working at the family parts store, where she greeted customers with conversation each day. One of her greatest joys was climbing into the little red truck and delivering parts to mechanic shops around town. Those simple drives and daily visits created friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Her coffee breaks were a treasured part of her routine for many years. From Pearson’s Drug Store to New Orleans Famous Fried Chicken, Moore’s Restaurant, and later Hardee’s, these stops became places where laughter was shared, stories were told, and lifelong friendships were formed.

Though her family will miss her dearly, they find comfort in knowing she is whole again and at peace. Her 98 years were filled with love, hard work, and laughter. She was the heart of a family that now stretches across five generations — a legacy that will continue because of the life she lived.

She is survived by her son, Larry Williams (Agnes), and daughter, Lynn Brasher; three grandchildren: Jim Brasher (Kelli), Kim Ferguson, and Kristi Gann (Shane); eight loving great-grandchildren: Vance Gann (Lauren), Mallory Gibson (Travis), Chase Ferguson (Brooklyn), Blaize Gann (Georgia), Shea Brasher, Jacob Brasher, Sam Brasher, and Mary Elizabeth Brasher; and six precious great-great-grandchildren: William Ridge and Lennon Gann, Addy and Emmy Gibson, Rowdy Gann, and Logan Ferguson.

She has been reunited with those who went before her. Waiting to greet her with smiles are her husband, Jess Williams; her parents, Edward B. And Joyce Cole Forrest, her grandson, Steven Brasher; her son-in-law, John Brasher; and her great-great-grandson, Axl Gann.

Pall bearers will be Shane Gann, Vance Gann, Blaize Gann, Chase Ferguson, Travis Gibson, and Jim Brasher

Honorary pall bearer will be her great-great grandson, William Ridge Gann.

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Kathryn Louise ForresterKathryn Louise Forrester (1947-2026)Kathryn Louise Sanford Forrester, 78, of Mantee, Mississippi...
03/07/2026

Kathryn Louise Forrester

Kathryn Louise Forrester (1947-2026)

Kathryn Louise Sanford Forrester, 78, of Mantee, Mississippi, left this Earth on March 5, 2026, just after midnight.

She was born on September 18, 1947, in Houston, Mississippi, to Ralph and Betty Sanford. Kathy was a graduate of Cumberland High School, married her high school sweetheart with whom she had and raised three daughters, and spent her life working primarily at Shannon Chair Company and Mississippi State University where she eventually retired in 2010.

Kathy was preceded in death by both of her parents, and her husband of nearly 50 years, Russell Forrester. She is survived by her daughters Melanie Carter (John), Sonya Gilliland (Bill), Amber Parker (Justin), seven grandchildren, and four great grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held Monday, March 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Houston Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM until time of service. Burial will follow at Mount Pleasant Cemetery. Houston Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.

John Carter, Bill Gilliland, Justin Parker, Jake Huffman, Carson Gilliland, and Brent Crimm will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Hudson and Watson Parker.

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Hazel WhittMrs. Hazel Ellynn Hare Whitt, 61 of Woodland, died March 3, 2026. Visitation will be Thursday, March 5, at Ho...
03/04/2026

Hazel Whitt

Mrs. Hazel Ellynn Hare Whitt, 61 of Woodland, died March 3, 2026. Visitation will be Thursday, March 5, at Houston Funeral Home from 5:00-7:00 P.M. Funeral service will be Friday, March 6 at 2:00 P.M. at Arbor Grove Baptist Church officiated by Bro. Jason Pilcher and Bro. Johnny Cherry. Burial will be at Arbor Grove Church Cemetery.

Hazel was born on February 23, 1965, in Vardaman, MS, to James Franklin Hare and Vicie Ellen Hare. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 40 years Tracy Whitt, many aunts, uncles, and her father-in-law. She is survived by her two daughters, Ellen (Tanner) Roberson of Mantee, Anna Leslie (Jay) McKee of Mathiston; her son Jackson Whitt of Woodland. Hazel had two granddaughters, Annie James McKee and Mary Ellynn Roberson, who lovingly referred to her as “GranMommie”. She is also survived by her sister Ramona (Billy) Farr, her two brothers, Curtis (Judy) Hare, and Steve Hare, her mother-in-law, Joyce Whitt, her sister-in-law, Emily (Bill) Peel and several nieces and nephews.

Hazel was a faithful member of Arbor Grove Baptist Church where she was a Sunday School teacher, served on various committees, and was also the occasional pianist. She had a servant’s heart and was always willing to help anyone in need. Hazel was a graduate of Mississippi State University and worked in the furniture industry for over 30 years making many friends along the way. She took much pride in her job and felt privileged to work with the Michael Davis Team. She had a strong work ethic and was considered a “work-aholic”. Hazel enjoyed many family vacations to the beach and snow ski resorts, holding and watching her two precious granddaughters play, enjoying nature by working in her yard and flowers, playing with her “best friend” Maggie, and watching her cats and chickens roam around the yard. She was also very competitive in pickleball and other activities, especially with her special friend and favorite nurse Beth.

Hazel’s life will leave a lasting impact on those who had the pleasure of being part of her life. She had a huge and caring heart. She had an indescribable love for her family. She had a beautiful smile and a fun sense of humor. She had a strong determination to get things accomplished. She was always willing to lend a helping hand. Hazel was also known to be a little late on occasion, but she always made it a better place when she arrived. She touched many lives and will be forever remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, sister, cousin, and friend. She will be in our hearts forever.

Pallbearers will be Ben Peel, Colton Peel, James Curtis Hare, Jamey Farr, Cody Farr, Dalton Bates and Dawson Bates.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Arbor Grove Baptist Church Family Life Center, 883 CR 93, Houston, MS 38851.

Vernon Colley
03/04/2026

Vernon Colley

View Vernon Colley's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Denise Paulette Jernigan**Obituary for Denise Paulette Jernigan**Denise Paulette JerniganIt is with heavy hearts that we...
03/01/2026

Denise Paulette Jernigan

**Obituary for Denise Paulette Jernigan**

Denise Paulette Jernigan

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Denise Paulette Jernigan, who departed this life on February 28, 2026 at the age of 73. Born on December 21, 1952 in Peoria, Illinois to Hilda and Paul Jernigan. Denise grew up and called Houston, MS home where she was a graduate of Houston High School. After high school, Denise had a wide variety of jobs from a cosmetologist, a librarian at Ole Miss, CSM of Walmart in Aberdeen, to her most beloved job as a stay-at-home mom, where her door was always open to not only her children but any child.

Denise was a beloved daughter, sister, and her most favorite title of them all, mother, grand-mother, and great grand-mother.

A celebration of life service will be held Tuesday March 3, 2026at Houston Funeral Home beginning at 11:00 am with Bro. Anthony Williams officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the time of service. Burial will follow at the Chickasaw Memorial Gardens of her final resting place. Pallbearers will be Lucas Tubb, Grant Hall, Johnathen Hall, Curt Jernigan Jr., Jeremy Adams, and Troy McArthur. Honorary pallbearer will be Jamison Adams.

Denise was unapologetically, wild at heart, made of gold; a gypsy soul with a love for people more than even imaginable. She loved to dance in her younger years and would turn any floor into a dance floor. She enjoyed cooking and making sure everyone had a full belly. In her later years, she grew an interest in the news and was sure to never miss those Ole Miss Rebels playing football, or any football game for that matter. Her legacy lives on throughout all the lives she touched and never having met a stranger in her life, the list is endless. Denise touched the hearts of so many kids that saw her as mother; she held them all dear to her heart.

Denise is survived by her cherished daddy, Paul Jernigan, her children, Heath Williams (Jennifer), Heather Hall (Ron), Michael Oakes, Stephanie Tubb, and Alanah Tubb; her brothers, Curt Jernigan (Glenda), Keith Jernigan (Margaret); ten precious grandchildren, Grant Hall (Kaylen), Jonathen Hall, Ally Hall, Alyssa Towery, Zella Ray, Lucas Tubb, Lave Tubb, Jamison Adams, Cage Pettigrew, and Austin Gray; one dear great grandbaby, Paisley, a host of nieces and nephews, and a very special friend whom she called her sister, Carolyn Pappas.

Denise is preceded in death by her mother, Hilda Jernigan.

Please keep the family in your prayers.

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James Winfred PorterJames Winfred “Jimmy” Porter, age 100, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026. He was born on N...
02/26/2026

James Winfred Porter

James Winfred “Jimmy” Porter, age 100, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026. He was born on November 15, 1925, to the late John Robert Porter and Kittly Florence Brown Porter.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Houston Funeral Home with Robert Cliett officiating. Visitation will begin at 12:00 noon and continue until the time of service. Burial will follow at Chickasaw Memorial Gardens. Houston Funeral Home is honored to serve the family. Ryan Puckett, Brayden Cliett, James Cliett, Jason Porter and Chris Ellison will be serving as pallbearers.

Immediately following his high school graduation, Jimmy answered his country’s call to serve. He was sworn into the United States Navy on May 17, 1944. After completing nine weeks of boot camp at Camp Wallace, Texas, he was sent to Rhode Island for advanced training before being assigned to the USS Panamint, Amphibious Force Flagship 13, where he reported aboard on October 13, 1944.

During his military service, Jimmy and his ship traveled down the East Coast, through the Panama Canal, and on to Vallejo, California, for combat preparation before deploying to the Hawaiian Islands. The USS Panamint was actively engaged at Ie Shima and Okinawa for 76 days during some of the fiercest fighting of World War II. Throughout the conflict, the ship successfully evaded bombs, torpedoes, kamikaze attacks, and su***de boats without loss of life among the crew.

Jimmy’s service also took him to Ulithi, Guadalcanal, Adak, Kodiak, and Juneau, Alaska. Following Japan’s surrender, the crew inspected Japanese harbors to determine their safety for Allied entry before traveling to Shanghai and eventually returning home. During his time in the Navy, he traveled more than 30,000 miles across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the Caribbean, Coral Sea, East China Sea, Japan Sea, and the Bering Sea—crossing the Equator and International Date Line multiple times.

While aboard ship, Jimmy served as the ship’s mailman and also manned guns in defense of the vessel. In recognition of his faithful and courageous service, he was awarded the Victory Medal, American Area Ribbon, and the Asiatic-Pacific Area Ribbon with Star.

The USS Panamint was considered a “Lucky Ship,” even though some might have thought it had an ominous beginning. The Panamint’s number was 13, it was scheduled for commission on Friday the 13th, and its pre-commission office was located at 1300 Park Avenue in Hoboken, New Jersey.

Jimmy was married to the love of his life, Jean Vaughn Porter, for over 69 years until her passing in 2019. He is survived by two children, Donna Cliett and Barry (Debbie) Porter; grandchildren, Jason Porter, Michael Porter, Rachel Puckett (Ryan), James Cliett (Diana), Robert Cliett (Hannah), and Allena Sanders (Travis); great-grandchildren, Brianna, Brayden, Emma, Kristen, Levi, Jase, Jake, Nolan and River; and one great-great-grandchild, Unity; and a sister Harriet Nichols.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Jean, his son in law, Ben Cliett and his siblings.

Jimmy’s century-long life was marked by devotion—to his country, to his family, and to the values of honor, faithfulness, and perseverance. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to:

Enon Primitive Baptist church cemetery fund

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John Michael HarmonWith profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of John Micha...
02/24/2026

John Michael Harmon

With profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of John Michael Harmon on February 21, 2026. Born on August 10, 1954, Mike captured the hearts of many with his spirit, resilience, and unwavering devotion to his family and friends. Though nothing prepares a family for such a loss, we take comfort in knowing he is now at peace.

A funeral service will be held Sunday, March 1, 2026, at 2:00 PM with Bro. David Blackwell officiating. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM until time of service at Houston Funeral Home. Skip Winter, David Huffman and Mike's grandsons will be serving as pallbearers. Houston Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.

Mike was a man defined by strength, independence, and love. He found joy in the bountiful nature that surrounded him; an avid outdoorsman, he relished the thrill of deer hunting and embraced the simple beauty of spending time outside. Fall Saturdays were sacred, dedicated to Ole Miss football, where he cheered passionately for his team. Few things brought him more happiness than the wind in his face as he rode his beloved Harley, and spending time with his faithful dog, Bandit, who remained by his side through thick and thin.

His most profound love, however, was reserved for his family. Mike was fiercely protective of his daughters, Karen (Joseph) Atherton and Andrea (Brian) Adams, and he took immense pride in his cherished grandchildren: Logan (Kenna) Winstead, Drew Winstead, Bennon Adams, Adalyn Adams, Haze Atherton, and Kayden Atherton. He also welcomed the joy of being a great-grandfather to Ivy Rose Thornton. Each of them was bathed in his love and affection, which often came with quieter lessons of strength through both example and gentle reminders to work hard and persevere.

The world knew him as a tough yet loving man, sometimes hard-headed, but those who loved him understood that such qualities stemmed from an immeasurable depth of care. John worked tirelessly throughout his life, providing for his family even when he no longer had to. He taught his loved ones invaluable lessons about life, instilling virtues of resilience and the importance of being the best they could be. Memories abound of hunting trips, spirited discussions about football, and the simple joys of picking up sticks in the yard, moments that encapsulated his philosophy of tough love.

Though his life was not without challenges, he faced each obstacle with determination, embodying the true spirit of tenacity. He fought the good fight and leaves behind a legacy of strength, loyalty, and an enduring love that will forever resonate in the hearts of his family and friends.

Mike is survived by his loving daughters, cherished grandchildren, a great-grandchild, along with his siblings Susan (Billy) Fuller and Terry Harmon, and special friends Mary (Mary Dale) Stark and Lisa (Liza Jane) Wilson.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Wilburn and Bobbye Sue Harmon, his brother, Tony Harmon, and his best friend, Johnny Huffman.

As we celebrate the incredible life Mike lived, we remember the countless ways he brightened our days and deeply touched our lives. His memory will live on in every shared story, in laughter, and in the lessons, we pass on to future generations. May he now rest in peace, reunited with those who have gone before him, until we meet again.

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Buster RobertsonWilford Hartel Robertson, affectionately known to all as "Buster" passed away peacefully at his home, Fe...
02/09/2026

Buster Robertson

Wilford Hartel Robertson, affectionately known to all as "Buster" passed away peacefully at his home, February 8, 2026, in Chickasaw County, surrounded by the comfort of the life he so faithfully lived.

A funeral service will be held Friday, February 13, 2026, at Bethel Baptist Church at 1:00 PM with Bro. Sammy McMillan, Bro. Henry Robertson, and Dr. Randy Rinehart officiating. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM until service time. Burial will follow at Bethel Cemetery.

Henry Robertson, Mike Robertson, Randy Robertson, Will Robertson, John Robertson and Mitch Caples will be serving as pallbearers. Danny Lantrip and Gary McQuary will be serving as honorary pallbearers.

Buster was a devoted family man whose greatest joy was his loved ones. He shared more than 50 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Ladys, building a life rooted in love, faith, and commitment. Together they raised five sons, and Buster took great pride in being a dedicated and loving father, guiding his boys by example, hard work, and unwavering values.

Buster proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, with service in Taiwan and Japan an E2. His military service was a source of deep pride, and he carried the discipline, integrity, and patriotism learned there throughout his life.

Following his service, Buster dedicated many years to Natchez Trace Power, where he worked his way to crew foreman. He was proud of the work he did and was respected for his leadership, strong work ethic, and dependability.

A faithful member of Bethel Baptist church, Buster loved the Lord and found joy in serving both his church and his God. His faith was evident in the way he lived—humble, generous, and always willing to lend a helping hand.

In his younger years, Buster enjoyed horseback riding and leatherworking, hobbies that reflected his love for craftsmanship, the outdoors, and a simpler way of life. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family, creating memories that will be treasured for generations.

Buster is survived by his sons, Randy (Fran) Robertson of Brandon, MS, Mike Robertson of Houston, MS, Marty Robertson of New Orleans, LA, Henry (Mary) Robertson of Houston, MS and Bryan (Michelle) Robertson of Houston, MS; his grandchildren, Will Robertson, John Robertson, Morgan Robertson, Sarah Robertson, Anna Beth Robertson, Andrew Robertson, Devon Robertson and Ainsley Robertson; and his sisters, Lounez Straight and Katheryn (Mac) Towery of Tupelo, MS.

Buster was preceded in death by his wife, Ladys Robertson, his parents, Henry and Inez Robertson and his brother, Johnny Frank Robertson.

Buster will be remembered as a man of faith, service, and love—a devoted husband, a proud father, a loyal friend, and a servant of God. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he loved so deeply

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Rose Ellen HaireIt is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Rose Ellen Haire, a beloved daughter, sister, wi...
01/22/2026

Rose Ellen Haire

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Rose Ellen Haire, a beloved daughter, sister, wife, and mother, who departed this life on January 21, 2026, at the age of 85. Rose was born on August 3, 1940, Chickasaw county, Mississippi, and she made her home in Houston, MS, where she lived her life surrounded by the love of family and friends.

Rose loved the Lord and was a faithful member of Faith Bible Church.

Rose dedicated a significant part of her career as a secretary at the Shannon Chair and Franklin Corporation, where her meticulous attention to detail and warm demeanor left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of working with her. She was a steadfast employee, known for her unwavering commitment and dedication.

Beyond her professional life, Rose had a radiant spirit that filled her home with warmth and creativity. She had a special gift for crocheting, often making beautiful baby blankets for new additions to the family. Her artistic talents extended to cross-stitching and coloring, activities she cherished during her leisure time. Rose was also a fan of game shows, finding joy in the simple pleasure of watching her favorites on television.

In her earlier years, she delighted in square dancing and exhibited impressive skills on roller skates that showcased her lively and playful nature.

Above all, Rose held a profound love for her family, particularly for her devoted husband, Wayne Haire, and their son, Joey (Crystal) Haire and step-daughter, Carla (James) Landreth. She was a cherished sister to Daphna Shempert and Lynette Collums, forging bonds with them that would last a lifetime. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Alyssa (Micah Brown) Haire, Kayla Weaver, KB (Colby) Skinner and Avery Marshall Landreth; her great-grandchildren, Kylee Martin, Blaise Weaver, Meely Pratt, Keaton Skinner and Lake Skinner; and a host of nieces and nephews that she loved dearly.

Visitation will be held January 23, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Houston Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service that will commence at 12:00 PM, also at the same location with Bro. Johnny Cherry officiating. Burial will be at Chickasaw Memorial Gardens following the service. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Rose's life, sharing memories and reflecting on the many ways she touched the hearts of those around her.

In our sorrow, we take comfort in knowing that Rose Ellen Haire’s legacy of love, creativity, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts and memories of all who knew her. She will be dearly missed, yet her spirit will live on in the many lives she enriched.

Rose was preceded in death by her parents, Everette Franklin and Inez Franklin; her sisters, Hilda Jernigan, Vannie Tackett, Clara Chapman, Alice and Billy Blue and her brother-in-law, Billy Shempert.

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Juanita Grace YoungJuanita Grace Hollingsworth YoungApril 12, 1927– January 10, 2026Juanita Grace Hollingsworth Young pa...
01/11/2026

Juanita Grace Young

Juanita Grace Hollingsworth Young

April 12, 1927– January 10, 2026

Juanita Grace Hollingsworth Young passed away at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, leaving behind nearly a century of love, beauty, faith, and family.

Born in Loyd, Mississippi, on April 12, 1927, she lived a life so full it feels impossible to fit into a few paragraphs.

To her family she was Mama Grace—and before long, she became everyone’s Mama Grace. She had a way of making people feel claimed, seen, and loved. Friends became family. Neighbors became grandchildren. She was an extended grandmother to many who simply needed one.

A Southern Christian lady in every sense, Grace built her life on faith. God and church were not accessories to her life—they were its foundation. She was a lifelong member of North Jackson Street Church of Christ, and her faith was steady, sincere, and quietly powerful. She didn’t just speak about faith, she lived it, leaving a lasting example for generations.

She loved all things lovely—fashion, the beauty shop, a favorite shade of lipstick, a touch of jewelry, freshly done nails. For her, these were small acts of care, pride, and dignity, a way of honoring both herself and others. She believed in showing up with intention and warmth. Her home reflected her heart: festive, welcoming, and always ready for company. Every holiday was an event. Every gathering felt special. She was a hostess in the truest sense of the word.

Her kitchen was sacred ground. Tea cakes, chicken and dressing, and her famous chocolate fudge cake were acts of love disguised as recipes. If you were fed at Mama Grace’s table, you belonged.She adored telling stories of her younger days, especially the love story that defined her life—the one she shared with Malvin “Bo” Young. Their marriage was the kind people write books about. In all the years they were together, no one ever saw them not in love.

Together, she and Bo owned and operated Young’s Studio in Houston, Mississippi for more than 50 years. Through their lens, they captured the milestones of an entire community: weddings, family portraits, school pictures, sports teams, and everyday moments that became treasured memories. Before color photography, Grace hand-tinted portraits, adding life and warmth with her own careful touch. One of her favorite stories was photographing a young Elvis Presley at a talent show at the National Guard Armory in Houston—long before he became The King.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Malvin “Bo” Young, and two grandchildren, Beau Burks Young and Jennifer Young Looney.

She is survived by her children, Larry Young of Denison, Texas, and Beverly Brooks (Randy) of Houston, Mississippi; her grandchildren, Stephanie Brooks Hall of Tupelo, Jason Brooks (Amanda) of Houston, and Jeremy Brooks (Tori) of Houston; along with 11 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews who were the joy of her later years.

A funeral service will be held at Houston Funeral Home Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 2:00 with visitation from 12:00-2:00 PM on Thursday. Burial will be at Chickasaw Memorial Gardens.

Cade Hall, Barry Hall, Eddie Alford, Donnie Alford, Richard Milstead, Greg Hollingsworth and Jimmy Hollingsworth will serve as pallbearers.

Grace leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured in years but in lives touched. She taught us how to love well, host graciously, live faithfully, and show up beautifully. The world feels quieter without her—but heaven is surely brighter.

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