Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home and Crematory

03/08/2026

Richard "Ricky" Crawford

Richard C. “Ricky” Crawford, 66, of the Lake City, passed away on Thursday evening, March 5, 2026 at the Haven Hospice – Suwannee Valley Care Center in Lake City after an extended illness. He was born in Lake City on December 30, 1959 to Mary Joyce Aldridge Crawford and the late Neil “Billy” Crawford. He has made the Lake City area his home all of his life and was a Framing Contractor; a job that he loved and worked in for over 40 plus years. He also worked in roofing for a little over 25 years. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with his family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Laurie Nazworth Crawford; mother, Mary Joyce Crawford (Gordon Spencer); sons, Ricky Crawford, II. (Amanda Brannon Stephens), David Kirby (Amanda), Cody Crawford and Hunter Crawford; daughter, Angie Mayfield. Two grandchildren Chloe and Taylor; along with his brothers, Dennis Crawford, Greg Crawford (Pam) and Timmy Crawford (Darlene) and his sister, Donna Guirado (Burt) also survive.

A funeral service for Ricky will be conducted on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. in the Lake City Church of God with Pastor Carl Thomas officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation beginning at 9:30 A.M. prior to the service at the church. Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.

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03/08/2026

Betty Louise Damron

Betty Louise Damron, age 94, passed away March 7, 2026 at her home in Fort White, Florida.

She was born February 11, 1932, in Kayford, West Virginia, a daughter of the late Frank and Sophie Walker. Betty was a beautiful person, inside and out. She was kind and caring and had many careers and pursuits.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Damron; three siblings, Tommy Walker, Nadine Sharp, and Janet Rutherford; and one son, James Damron.

She is survived by three daughters, Alease Christie of Archer, Florida, Crystal Damron of Fort White, Florida and Zelda Clark of Centerburg, Ohio; six grandchildren, David Christie of Gainesville, Florida, Matthew Stewart of Minneolia, Florida, Jay Johnstone of Fort White, Florida, Kenny Zachariah of Columbus, Ohio, Bobby Damron of Columbus, Ohio, and Signe Damron of Columbus, Ohio; and eight great-grandchildren, Bailey Stewart, Alley Stewart, Violet Stewart, Neviah Johnstone, Hayden Christie, Parker Christie, Wyatt Johnstone, and Ezekiel Johnstone, along with many other family and friends who will sadly miss her. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the family and all who mourn Betty’s passing.

Services will be held at Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home and Crematory Inc. in Lake City, Florida. A viewing will be held Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 4:00 PM with a celebration of life held immediately afterwards at 5:00 PM. We invite all who knew and loved Betty to join us in honoring her memory.

03/06/2026

Eileen DeVoe Stock

Eileen DeVoe Stock, 79 of Lake City, passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at her home. She was born in East Orange, New Jersey on April 7, 1946 to the late Albert Sherwood DeVoe and Eileen Margaret Brett DeVoe. Mrs. Stock had made her home in Lake City since 2018. She worked 30 years with AT&T and Lucent. She enjoyed gardening and had won many awards for her vegetables. Mrs. Stock also loved tending to her chickens and giving their eggs to friend and family. She was an avid Kansas City Cheifs and Nebraska Corn Huskers fan. She was preceded in death by her parents; and one brother, AL DeVoe.

Survivors include her husband of 60 years, George Stock of Lake City; three brothers, Brett DeVoe (Remy) of St. Augustine, Dennis DeVoe of Washington, D.C. and Kevin DeVoe (Susan) of Jacksonville; four sisters, Dawn Roddy (Mark) of Virginia, Lois Taylor (Larry) of Lake City, Judith Mock of Middleburg and Noel Olsen (Dave) of Texas; numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews also survive.

A celebration of life service for Mrs. Stock will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Epiphany Catholic Church.

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03/06/2026

Always an honor to be there for our local VA and the Veterans that served our country!

03/06/2026

Charles “Mr. C” Wesley Coppock

Obituary for Charles W. Coppock

Charles W. Coppock was born on September 16, 1931, in Swainsboro, Georgia, and peacefully departed this life on March 2, 2026, at the age of 94.

Charles was born to the late Joseph Coppock and the late Densie Shedrick Coppock. He was raised with strong values of discipline, faith, and perseverance—principles that guided him throughout his life.

Charles proudly served his country for 22 years as an Operating Room Technician in the United States Army. Following his military service, he continued his commitment to serving others by working for more than 20 years as an Operating Room Technician at the Veterans Affairs Hospital. Later, he served more than 20 years as a Commissary Manager for the Lake City, Fl, Sheriff’s Department. His career reflected his dedication, skill, and unwavering commitment to service. He carried that same sense of responsibility and honor into every area of his life.

He was preceded in death by his siblings, Delores Coppock and Solomon Coppock.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife, Dorothy R. Coppock. Charles loved his wife deeply, and their marriage stood as a beautiful example of lifelong commitment and devotion. He was a proud and caring father to Teri Dantzler, Alfred (Carmen) Seymour III, and Vicki (Dancel) Seymour.

Charles was a beloved grandfather to Michael Seymour, Tiffany Townsend, Alfred Seymour IV, Linwood Dantzler II, Terry Brown, Jerrod Dantzler, Tervaris Brown, and Tyger Finlayson. He was also blessed with 20 great-grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will continue to honor his legacy.

He is also survived by his loving siblings: his brother, Joseph (Loretta) Coppock, and his sisters, Lilly Mae Grooms and Patricia Shehee.

Charles will be remembered for his strength, wisdom, quiet resilience, and deep love for his family. His life stands as a testament to commitment—to his country, to his family, and to living with dignity and purpose.

His legacy lives on in the strength of his family, the memories they cherish, and the values he instilled in each of them. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Scripture

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

— 2 Timothy 4:7

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03/05/2026

Hugh Monroe Kirby

Mr. Hugh Monroe Kirby, 89, passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at the Bedrock Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Live Oak, FL., following an extended illness. He was the son of the late Marshall Edgar and Edna Hammock Kirby and was preceded in death by a daughter, Susan A. Kirby, and a sister, Sarah Kirby. He was a lifelong resident of Columbia County and a lifetime and active member of Athens Baptist Church. He owned and operated Kirby Trucking for over forty years. He always had an entrepreneurial spirit, and before starting a hay business, he owned several businesses, the last of which was the Cash-N- Carry in Columbia City. He enjoyed spending time with his family. He became an FFA member in 1952 while in high school. He was then honored as a lifetime member in the nineties while his grandchildren were members of the FFA.

He is survived by his wife of forty years Sue Kirby, Lake City, FL; two sons Stan Palmer, Jacksonville, Fl., and Ronald “Ronnie” Palmer, Lake City, FL two daughters Pamela Hubert (Scott) Valdosta, GA; and Sonja McMullan (Michael) Valdosta, GA; one sister Relma Faul (Harvey) Lake City, FL. and fourteen grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren also survive.

A funeral service for Mr. Hugh Monroe Kirby will be conducted on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. in the Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home Memorial Chapel with Pastor Jason Hudson officiating. Interment will follow in Athens Baptist Church Cemetery in Lake City, FL. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation on Monday, March 9, 2026, from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. In Lieu of flowers family asks that donations be made to the missionary fund at Athens Baptist Church. Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.

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03/05/2026

Nella Mae Richardson

Nella Mae Richardson, affectionately known as "Nana," was born on April 23,1941, in Lake City, Florida. She departed this life on March 3, 2026, leaving a legacy of love, faith, and devotion that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew her.

Throughout her life, Nella embraced a career characterized by dedication. Her work journey included esteemed positions at GE Battery in Alachua, the school lunchroom, Gibson McDonald's, Heilig-Meyers, and she proudly retired from Farmers Furniture in 2020. Her experiences in these roles showcased her strong work ethic and commitment to serving others.

Nella was an unwavering servant of Christ, deeply involved in her community as a devoted member of Pine Grove Baptist Church, where she not only attended services but also enriched the church choir with her beautiful voice. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and relationships. Nella strongly believed in the teachings of the Bible, living by her favorite verse, Proverbs 3:5-6, which reflects her trust in the Lord's guidance.

Family was at the center of Nella's world. She cherished every moment spent with her children, Jimbo Richardson and his wife Lisa, and Marcie Kemp and her husband Jerry. Her role as a grandmother brought her immense joy; she took pride in her grandchildren, Jake Richardson and his wife Amber, Brittany Markham and her husband Dylan, Micah Richardson and his wife Ashley, Makenzie Adler and her husband Dawson, and Ethan Richardson with his girlfriend Savana. The blessings continued with her great-grandchildren, Liam and Everleigh Richardson, and Emmett and Jaxson Markham, each bringing light and joy into her life.

Nella's legacy extends into the memories she created with her family during cherished gatherings and activities. She enjoyed Bible study classes, jewelry-making sessions, and lunches at Shirley’s. Her kindness and warmth will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Nella Mae Richardson is preceded in death by her father, Elmer Holliday; her mother, Annie Mae Holliday; her brother, Ellis Holliday; and her beloved granddaughter, Adelyn Ruth Richardson. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit and teachings will continue to inspire family and friends alike.

As we remember Nella, we celebrate a life well-lived, marked by devotion to family, faith in Christ, and a heart full of love. Her presence will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Pine Grove Baptist Church, chest of Joash at 1989 US-441, Lake City, FL 32055.

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03/03/2026

Charles Albert Peeler, Sr

Mr. Charles Albert Peeler, Sr., 77, passed away on Monday March 2, 2026, unexpectedly at the Tampa General Hospital. He is the son of the late Carl and Pauline Bussey Peeler. He is preceded in death by one brother John Peeler, four brother in laws Glen Markham, Mike Cox, Claude Kennedy, Sherrill Sistrunk, and one sister-in-law Faye Peeler. Charles was a lifelong resident of Columbia County, owning and operating Charles Peeler Construction for the past fifty years until he sold the company to his son in 2022. He served his country in the United States Navy for four years. He was a member of the Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, The Lake City Masonic Lodge #27 F&AM, Morrocco Temple Shrine Club, and the Scottish Rites, the Hardees Breakfast Club and the NWTF (National Wild Turkey Federation). His greatest joy in life was being a papa.

He is survived by his wife of fifty-six years Dianna Waites Peeler, his two sons Chuck Peeler (Lyndsie) and Doug Peeler (Maci) all of Lake City, FL. his five brothers Billy Peeler (Patsy) Wellborn, FL; W.H. Peeler (Janet), Earl Peeler, Dale Peeler (Kathi) and Raymond Peeler(Alice) all of Lake City, FL; his five sisters Lula Mae Sistrunk, Anne Little (Harold), Glenda Markham, Velina Cox, and Carline Kennedy all of Lake City, FL; sister-in-law Vicki Anders (Norman) and a brother-in-law Marty Waites (Lisa), and his six grandchildren Chandler Wade Peeler, Adalyn Olevia Peeler, Maverick Charles Peeler, Charles Albert Peeler, III, Cyrus Patton Peeler and Amos Cotton Peeler all of Lake City, FL and a host of nieces and nephews also survive.

A funeral service for Mr. Charles Albert Peeler, Sr. will be conducted on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 10:00 A.M. in the Gateway-Forest Lawn Memorial Chapel with Pastor John Kerry officiating. Interment will follow in the Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church Cemetery in Lake City, FL. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation on Thursday, March 5, 2026, from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. In Lieu of flowers family asks donations to be made to Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church cemetery fund. Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.

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03/03/2026

Paula Ann Kennedy

Paula Ann Kennedy, born on February 25, 1951, in the embrace of a loving family, departed this life on February 27, 2026, in Gainesville, Florida. She was a remarkable woman known for her kind heart, warm smile, and loving spirit.

Paula had a passion for the beauty around her, particularly in her appreciation for butterflies and her fondness for all things purple. She found delight in life’s smallest details, often expressing herself through her cherished jewelry collection. Her vibrant personality and welcoming nature made her a beloved figure among all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Family meant everything to Paula, and she relished simple pleasures such as sharing a bucket of KFC with loved ones. Her laughter and joy brought light to many gatherings, creating memories that will forever be cherished. Paula is deeply mourned by her surviving family, including her daughters, Delise Sparks and Tricia Trammell, along with their husbands, Shawn Sparks and Lane Trammell. She was a proud grandmother to Lance Trammell, Maria Trammell, Sierra McCahon, Ryan McCahon, Joshua Mitchell, Will Trammell, Evan Trammell, Tiffany Sparks, and Megan Sparks. Paula’s legacy lives on in her family, who will continue to carry her love and spirit in their hearts.

Preceding her in death were her loving mother, Verona Price; father, Richard Price; her devoted husband, Richard Kennedy; and her brother, David Price. While her presence will be profoundly missed, Paula Ann Kennedy's vibrant spirit and the love she shared will remain an everlasting memory in the lives of those she touched.

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02/26/2026

Mary Lou Bullard

Mary Lou Taylor Bullard (Mrs. J. Wade) White Springs, Florida

Mary Lou Taylor Bullard, 92, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Lake City, Florida, following a lengthy illness.

Mrs. Bullard was the eldest of six children born to the late Boman and Annie Taylor, Live Oak, Florida. She attended public schools in Live Oak and graduated from Suwannee High School, Class of 1952. At the end of 1952, she enlisted in the United States Air Force and proudly served her country for over two years

In 1956, she married the late J. Wade Bullard, a prominent farmer and timber businessman, White Springs, Florida. They were married 37 years until Mr. Bullard's demise in 1993. To this union was born two sons, Johnny Bullard , White Springs, Florida, and Jerry Lawrence Bullard, ( Amanda), Lake City.

Mrs. Bullard was employed for over twenty years at the White Springs Public Library. She also substituted for over 20 years in Hamilton County's Public Schools.

She was a longtime member of First Baptist Church, White Springs, Florida, where she faithfully served in many capacities.

For the past several years, she attended, White Springs Methodist Church.

An excellent Southern cook, Mrs. Bullard enjoyed sharing many of her culinary dishes with others. She was famous for her pecan pies, red velvet cake, and turkey and dressing.

She served on the Hamilton County Industrial Development Authority Board for a number of years, the Stephen Foster Citizens Support Organization, and the White Springs Special Events Committee. She was an avid Florida Gator Fan, and she and her husband attended many Gator Games and were season ticket holders beginning in 1962.

In addition to her sons and daughter in law, she is survived by one granddaughter, Laura Leigh Bullard, Jacksonville, Florida J, three sisters, Margaret Wooley, Live Oak, and Jeannie Wilson and Annette Bullard, Ormond Beach, as well as one brother, Jerry Taylor, Live Oak She was preceded in death by a brother, Bill Taylor, Phoenix, Arizona.

A number of other relatives and friends survive.

The family wishes to express appreciation for the many kind expressions of sympathy. God Bless you. Special thanks to the staff of the VA Medical Center, Lake City, Florida, as well as the staff of Gateway Forest Lawn Funeral Home staff, Lake City.

A private graveside service for Mrs. Bullard will be held at historic Prospect Primitive Baptist Cemetery, Hamilton County at a later date. There will be no visitation.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to White Springs Methodist Church, PO Box 204, White Springs, FL. 32096, or Stephen Foster Citizens Support Organization, PO Box 666, White Springs, Florida 32096.

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02/26/2026

Robert Joseph Lewis

Robert Joseph "Bob" Lewis, age 78, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026, in High Springs, Florida. Born on December 21, 1947, in Miami, Florida, Bob lived a life full of dedication to his family and his work.

Bob spent over five decades working in the elevator industry, a career that showcased his commitment and amazing work ethic. He was also in the U.S. Army National Guard, demonstrating his sense of duty and service.

Bob was a devoted husband to Linda Lewis of Lake City, Florida. Their marriage of over 54 years was a testament to their enduring love and partnership. Together, they built a life centered around their family. Bob was an incredible father to his son Greg Lewis (Jen) of Middleburg, Florida, and his daughter, Diane Vaala (Dane) of Lake City, Florida. His children were the pride of his life, and he always prioritized their well-being with unwavering love and support.

As a grandfather, Bob cherished his three grandchildren—Colton Vaala, Everly Vaala, and Kaylee Lewis—who brought immense joy to his life. His love for them was boundless and evident in every moment he spent with them. He is also survived by his brother, Donald Lewis of Opelika, Alabama.

Bob had a passion for cars and guns that reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship and precision. These hobbies brought him great joy throughout his life. Beyond his interests, Bob will be remembered for his generous spirit and kind heart. Those fortunate enough to know him were often amazed by his willingness to help others without hesitation. He was the type of person who would give you the shirt off his back—even if it meant going without himself.

Bob's legacy is one of love, selflessness, and devotion to those he held dear. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

May Bob rest in peace as those who loved him find comfort in the memories they shared together.

A Visitation will be held on February 28, 2026, from 1 pm to 2 pm at Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home: 3596 South Highway 441, Lake City, FL 32025.

Funeral Service will follow at 2 pm. At Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Lake City, FL.

02/24/2026

John Leo Ellison

John Leo Ellison, Sr., age 81 of Lake City, passed away on Monday, February 23, 2026 at his home. Mr. Ellison was an only child to the late John Oliver Ellison and Essie Mae Ellison. He had lived most of his life in Lake City and retired from PCS in White Springs with 32 years of employment. Following his retirement, Mr. Ellison worked as a crossing guard with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office at Hwy 90 and Old Country Club Road where he loved seeing the smiling faces of the kids. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his son-in-law, Phillip Flint; and his beloved dog “Red”, whom he referred to as his children’s baby brother.

Survivors include his children, Rosemary Taylor (Allen), Loretta Lynn Flint and Johnny Ellison all of Lake City; son Ronald Lee of Arkansas; his cousin, Autra Ellison of Cross City; 4 grandchildren including Justin Porter of Lake City and Jay Porter (Caley) of Jacksonville; and seven great-grandchildren including, Emma, Grantham, Landry and Stetson of Jacksonville.

Graveside funeral services for Mr. Ellison will be conducted on Monday, March 2,2026 at 3:00 PM at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens with his grandson, Pastor Jay Porter officiating. Interment will follow.

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