Archer-Milton Funeral Home

02/09/2026

Peter Kade Caraway, a beloved son and brother, who graced this world on February 8, 2026, only to leave us the same day. Peter was born at St Vincents Clay and his brief time on this earth was precious and will leave an impact on the family. He was the cherished son of Joshua Caraway, Jr. and Jaycee Caraway, and abrother to his dear sister, Ellianna Quinn Caraway.

He is survived not only by his immediate family but also by his loving paternal grandparents, Joshua Caraway, Sr. (and his wife, Rachel), and his maternal grandparents, Jeffrey Crawley (and his wife, April). A close-knit family, they shared countless moments of joy and laughter together, building a bond that was unbreakable. Peter's spirit will continue to live on through the love and memories of these gentle souls and many more family members who will miss him dearly.

In honoring Peter's life, a visitation will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Clay Hill Church of God in Middleburg, starting at 10:30 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am. Sister Baughtman will be officiating the service. Peter will be laid to rest immediately following at Holly Hill Memorial Park.

Peter Kade Caraway, you will be missed beyond measure, and your legacy of love will carry on as a guiding light for us all.

Archer Milton Funeral Home is honored to take care of this family during such trying times.e

02/09/2026

Candace Priscilla Joseph, a ray of sunshine who enriched the lives of many, suddenly passed away on February 3, 2026, at the age of 43 in Lake Butler, Florida. Born on September 3, 1982, in Gainesville, Florida, Candace left an indelible mark on everyone she met.

As an adored content creator on TikTok, she amassed a devoted following, transforming casual viewers into cherished friends. Her vibrant personality shone through every video, where her infectious laughter and witty remarks brought joy to countless lives. Candace's ability to connect with others was unparalleled; her followers were not simply fans but a family brought together by shared experiences and heartfelt interactions.

Her nurturing spirit was evident not only in her online presence but also in her everyday life. A lover of music, Candace forged a deeper bond with her son Aiden through their shared passion, finding harmony in both sound and spirit. She enthusiastically attended her daughter Madison’s lacrosse games, cheering her on with her pride radiating from the stands. Her love for sports was obvious when her Florida Gators were playing ball. Family game nights, filled with laughter and friendly competition, were a staple of her home, where her energetic and spunky nature brought joy to each gathering. Her energetic personality was always on full display when her Florida Gators were playing ball.

Candace is survived by her beloved children, Madison Joseph of Gainesville and Ayden Dodd of Lake Butler; her sister Jamie (Michael) Kelly of Decatur, AL; her brother Brad (Amber) Phillips of Huntsville, AL; and her adoring nieces, Kayla, Hailey, and Aspen Phillips. Each of them will forever cherish the moments spent with their beloved “doodle bug”.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Johnny and Jean Pons, whose love and guidance undoubtedly shaped the remarkable woman Candace became. Her legacy of compassion, humor, and unwavering loyalty will continue to inspire those she left behind.

The community is invited to celebrate her life at Spring Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Gainesville, Florida. Visitation will take place on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a Funeral Service from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Candace’s radiant spirit and unforgettable laughter will echo in the hearts of her family and friends, forever lighting the way in their memories.

02/09/2026

02/06/2026

In today's world, where many of us would rather avoid the topic of death in every way, people don't realize why the funeral matters and the important role it plays in grief and healing. If you'd like to learn more about the value of having a service to meaningful honor a loved one's life, click the link to learn about 4 reasons why the funeral matters!

Many people don't realize the value of the funeral and the role it plays in healing. Click to learn why 4 reasons why the funeral matters!

02/05/2026

Bobby James Griffis, age 85, of Lake Butler, Florida passed away peacefully with family by his side on February 4, 2026. Bobby was born November 3, 1940, in Raiford, Florida to the late James and Francis Griffis, the tenth of twelve children. Bobby attended Union County High School. He left school and made his way to Jacksonville, Florida, where he found work at an AMMOCO gas station. He worked there for two years and then started building houses for JM Mullins. He built houses for Mr. Mullins for approximately ten years before moving on to work as a mechanic and truck driver with his cousin Johnny Griffis for Overland Hauling in Middleburgh, Florida, and then transferring to Occoee, Florida. In 1972, he moved back to Lake Butler, Florida, and worked for Mr. Lowell Shadd. From there he moved onto Owens Illinois in Lake Butler where he worked until 2002 when he retired.

On May 10, 1975, Bobby married Nina Louise (Hill). Together, they raised nine children John Bunyan (Terri), Regina (Barry Taylor), Roxie, Cynthia Lee, Theresa Annette, Bonita Suzzette, Bryan Keith (Terry), Richard Kevin (Misty), and Deborah JoAnn (Kevin Thompson). They were further blessed with 26 Grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren.

Bobby enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and spending time with his family. Bobby was a member of the Raiford Mason and the Shriners.

Bobby is preceded in death by his wife, parents, his sisters Geneva, Edith, Alta Mae, Estelle, Betty Irene, and brothers Lonnie, R.L., Doyle, and Billy, sons John, and Bryan.

A funeral service will be held at Archer-Milton Funeral Home on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 3:00pm. The family will receive friends for a visitation one-hour prior beginning at 2:00pm. Immediately following the service, Bobby will be laid to rest at Crosby Lake Cemetery. Services to be officiated by Randall A. Griffis, Sr. and Pastor Gary Griffis.

02/03/2026

Funeral Service for Kolden Jenkins

02/03/2026

It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Raymond Hoyt Starling, a hardworking man who knew the value of sweat and toil. Born on January 1, 1935, and after 91 full years, he left us peacefully at his home in Lawtey on February 1, 2026.

Hoyt had a long and proud career as a heavy equipment operator with Container Corporation for over half a century, but anyone who knew him would tell you he was a farmer at heart. His hands were meant for planting, and he spent his whole life tending to anything that could grow. When he wasn’t behind the wheel of some hefty machinery or working the land, you could find him out in the wild, finding peace in hunting and fishing.

He was a devoted family man, having shared 55 wonderful years with his beloved wife, Evelyn Starling, who has joined him in rest. He preceded in death by his mother, Lois Starling Tanner, and his siblings, Adel Starling, June Edwards, and Randolph Box.

Hoyt leaves behind a loving family that will carry on his legacy. His daughters, Donna Bentley and Sheila Starling, hold dear the memories of a father who instilled hard work and love into their lives. His grandchildren, Raymond Starling (Danielle Walker) and Stacie Bentley, remember him as a guiding light, while his great-grandchildren—Victoria Padgett, Lloyd Padgett, Ashley Starling, Ryan Starling, Justin Starling, Katelynn Starling, and Re*****on Starling—are better for the time they spent with their grandpa. Adding to the mix are step-great-grandchildren, Michael and Wyatt, and great-great-grandchildren, Oaklynn Ray and Waylon Padgett, who he also loved dearly.

As we come together to celebrate Hoyt’s life and bid him farewell, we invite you to pay your respects at Archer-Milton Funeral Home in Lake Butler, Florida. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on February 9, 2026, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. Raymond will be laid to rest immediately following with service at Long Branch Cemetery.

Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve the Starling family during their time of loss. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com

02/03/2026

Audrey Mae Cooper Thornton, a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on February 2, 2026, at the ET York Care Center in Gainesville, Florida. Born on December 6, 1951, in Starke, Florida, Audrey lived a life filled with love, devotion, and an unwavering commitment to her family.

For many years, Audrey touched the lives of those around her through her work as a cashier at Roy's Meat Market, where her warm smile and genuine kindness endeared her to countless customers. Later, she dedicated her time as a bus aide for the Bradford County Schools, lovingly ensuring the safety and comfort of children during their daily commutes.

Audrey was a passionate cook, known for her great southern food that brought family and friends together around the table. It was through these meals that she shared not just sustenance but also her love and warmth, creating memories that will forever be cherished.

Audrey's proudest accomplishments were her beloved family, who she loved dearly and held the utmost pride for. She is survived by her children, Sylvia (Rodney) Cayton, Glen (Dawnya) Thornton, and Lisa Thornton; her 10 grandchildren; and her 21 great-grandchildren. Audrey also leaves behind her siblings, Bea Strickland, Betty Knight, William Cooper, and Henry Cooper, along with a host of nieces and nephews who will deeply miss her presence in their lives.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 54 years, Robert Thornton; her parents, Robert Cooper and Martha Cooper Nettles, siblings, Leon Cooper, Katie Harden, Thelma Cooper, Iola Cooper, Robert Cooper, Hubert Cooper, George Cooper, Harvey Cooper, and Joan Cooper; and great-grandchildren, Easton Thornton and Riley Rivera.

On February 4, 2026, family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation at Fellowship Baptist Church in Raiford, Florida, starting at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. She will be laid to rest beside her husband at Dyal Cemetery immediately following the service.

Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to once again serve the Thornton family. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com

02/02/2026

Joyce Marylin Bombard, 85, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026, at Community Hospice’s Alice and T. O'Neal Douglas Center for Caring in Jacksonville, Florida.

Joyce was born on July 14, 1940, in Trenton, New Jersey. She later met the love of her life, Robert Bombard, and together they moved to Jacksonville, Florida. Joyce enjoyed a long career in the Claims Department at Aetna, where she worked with dedication until her retirement.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and great great grandmother, Joyce was known for her warmth, generosity, and open heart. Her home became lovingly known as the “Bombard Do Drop In”, a place where everyone was welcome and no one was ever turned away. She treasured spending time with her family—especially her grandkids—and found joy in playing Yahtzee, enjoying bingo with friends, and blasting Cher in the kitchen.

Joyce is preceded in death by her beloved husband Robert Bombard; her parents Elizabeth and John Downs; siblings Cindy, Sharon, Deloris, and John; her daughter Wanda; and her son in law Steve.

She is survived by her brother Ron (Debbie) Downs of Highgate, VT; her daughters Tracy Hanford of Macclenny, FL, and Christine Paulk of Jacksonville, FL; her grandchildren Steven Floyd, April (Trey) Scott, Travis (Ashley) Britt, Matthew Floyd, Jason Hanford, Earlene (Connor) Schindler, and Laraleigh Dickey; her great grandchildren Torah (Hunter), Tiara, Ryleigh, Travis Jr., and Gavin; and her great great grandchildren Kinley and Adaline; along with many dear friends who loved her.

Joyce’s life was a testament to love, kindness, and the power of family. Her presence brought comfort, laughter, and a sense of home to all who knew her.

Funeral services for Joyce will be held on Thursday, February 5th, 2026, at Faith Family Fellowship located at 2503 Tebassa Rd, Jacksonville, Florida 32216 with Pastor Lamar Baden officiating the service. A viewing will begin at 11:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 12:00PM.
Archer-Milton funeral home is honored to take care of this family at their time of need.

02/02/2026

Did you know that Groundhog Day stems from the holiday Candlemas? Apparently, a superstition in Germany stated that if an animal saw its shadow on Candlemas (February 2), there would be six more weeks of winter. When settlers came to the United States, they brought the practice with them! Do you know any other random facts about Groundhog Day?

02/02/2026

Dennis Leon Richardson, born October 6, 1961, in Starke, Florida, was a devoted father, loving family man, and a friend to everyone he met.

Dennis worked as a truck driver and business entrepreneur, taking pride in his independence and strong work ethic. He believed in hard work and responsibility, values he carried throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Tammy Richardson, who passed away in 2014. He was the son of Pansy Taylor (Crosby). Dennis was a proud and loving father to his three children, Scott Richardson, Kevin Richardson, and Tamber Williams (Murphy), who were the center of his world. He also got great pleasure in spending time with his grandchildren, Rowan, Daniel, Matthew, Emma, Austin, Dallas, Savanna, Treven, Braxton, Cheyanne, Nova, and Brayden. He is also survived by his devoted sister, Denise (Wayne) Haight.

Dennis was a fun-loving person who made friends wherever he went. He especially cherished time spent with his family on the Suwannee River, where some of his happiest moments were made. Those days on the river—filled with laughter, relaxation, and togetherness—meant everything to him and will be remembered always.

A service to honor Dennis' life will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Bayless Highway Baptist Church at 1:00pm. A visitation time will begin one hour prior at 12:00pm. He will be laid to rest immediately following the service at Crosby Lake Cemetery. Pastor Mike Conner to officiate.

Dennis will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on through shared stories, familiar laughter, and the love he gave so freely.

Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve the Richardson family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com

02/01/2026

This month, we celebrate the amazing achievements and contributions of African Americans and recognize their strength, resilience, and accomplishments through every challenge. We’re particularly grateful to Garrett Morgan, who invented the three-light traffic signal (red, yellow, green), for making our streets so much safer, even 100 years later!