West Jones High School Class of 1987

11/05/2025

The West Jones Class of 1987 would like to extend our deepest sympathy to our classmate Philip Smith in the passing of his mother.

Elizabeth Smith, age 90, of Laurel, MS, passed away on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Brookdale Memory Care in Hattiesburg, MS.

Elizabeth was born June 7, 1935 in Moss Point, MS.

Elizabeth was an active member of Salem Heights Baptist Church and a graduate of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary with a Religious Education degree.

She has served as a financial/administrative assistant throughout Jones County in church related work. She also served as a pianist/organist in several churches. During her retirement, she enjoyed traveling, working in her yard, exercising in water aerobics, singing at different nursing homes, feeding the birds and spending time with friends and family.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Melvin Smith; parents, Artis and Maude Wilkerson; sister, Blanche Simmons; and brother, Arnold (Lenelle) Simmons.

Elizabeth is survived by her three children, Rachel (Alex) Chaney of Hokes Bluff, AL, Belinda (Bruce) Ratcliff of Columbia, MS, and Philip (Stephanie) Smith of Laurel, MS; seven grandchildren, Sarah (Brian) Platt, Meredith (Matthew) Ledbetter, Nathan Chaney, Mallory Ratcliff, Jordan (Braxton) Rustin, Kynlee Smith and Cruz Smith; great-granddaughter, Anna Kathryn Platt; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held Friday, November 7, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. at Salem Heights Baptist Church, Laurel, MS.

Pallbearers will be Nathan Chaney, Brian Platt, Cruz Smith, Matthew Ledbetter, Braxton Rustin and Dylan Butler. Honorary pallbearers are Randy Smith, Kirk Smith, Kevin Smith, Chris Creel, Dirk Creel, Greg Smith and Dane Allen Gardner.

A special thank you to Brookdale Memory Care for their gracious and compassionate care of Elizabeth for nearly four years.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Gideons International.

11/03/2025

The West Jones Class of 1987 would like to extend our deepest sympathy to our classmate Carolyn Jones Young in the passing of her mother May Jones.

It is with both heavy hearts and cherished memories that we announce the passing of May Rebel Jones, who departed this world on October 30, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on August 21, 1937, May lived a life rich in love, laughter, and resilience. She was a beloved mother, cherished friend, and a source of inspiration for all who had the privilege of knowing her.In honor of May's life, a Public Viewing will be held at Life Church 5021 Hwy 84 West Laurel Ms on Thursday, November 6, 2025, from 5:00 PM-7:00 PM, providing an opportunity for family and friends to gather, share stories, and reflect on the beautiful moments they shared with her. The following day, we invite all to join us for a Celebration of Life at Life Church on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 1:00 PM, Dr Homer E. Kemp, Pastor of St John Missionary Baptist Church in Vossburg Ms will be officiating. Following the service, May will be laid to rest at Leona Community Church in Vossburg Ms.May Rebel Jones will be deeply missed, but her legacy of kindness, strength, and joy will forever resonate in our hearts. Let us come together to honor her memory, sharing in the love and laughter she so generously spread throughout her life.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of May Rebel Jones, please visit our floral store.

11/03/2025

The West Jones Class of 1987 would like to extend our deepest sympathy to our classmate Paul Waller in the passing of his father THIS PAST April 17, 2025.

Leroy Waller
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Leroy Waller of Pascagoula, Mississippi, who passed away on April 17, 2025, at the age of 75, leaving to mourn family and friends.
As we bid farewell to this luminous soul, let his loved ones carry forward the torch of his memory, illuminating the path ahead with the warmth of his love and the brilliance of his spirit. Though Leroy may journey beyond the horizon of our sight, his essence remains woven into the very fabric of our being — a guiding light in the darkness, a beacon of hope in the night.

11/02/2025

10/01/2025

The West Jones Class of 1987 would like to extend our deepest sympathy to our classmate Ann Hathorn in the passing of her mother.

Mary Ann Bell was born on September 21, 1941 in Noxubee County, and departed this life in Laurel, Mississippi, on September 30, 2025.��Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Walker Wade and Etta Kate Perkins, and by all five of her siblings: Thomas Albert “Snowball” Perkins, Lelia Zaring, John Alton Perkins, Beverly Ellzey, and Stevie Perkins. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband of 52 years, Bobby Bell.��Mary Ann is survived by her sons, Mark Hathorn (Carol), Bubba Hathorn (Cassie) and Huong van Nguyen, and by her daughter, Ann Marie Hathorn. She is also survived by her five granddaughters, Mallory Giovengo (Brandon), Erin Harrison (Nathan), Baylea Hogan, Taylor Hathorn, and Brooklyn Tucker (John Thomas). She is survived by her great-grandchildren, Abree and AnaLynn Giovengo, Jaden Flynt, Hollyn and Hayes Tucker; by a host of nieces and nephews; and by her two dogs, Charlie and Mac.��Mary Ann worked as a cosmetologist for many years and previously owned K-Mac’s Salon in Laurel. Mary Ann enjoyed playing tennis, watching Ole Miss and the Kansas City Chiefs, and being the keeper of her family’s history. Mary Ann was proud of her brother Snowball’s commemoration on the Korean War Memorial in Washington, DC and of the fact that four of her five siblings represented the four branches of the US military: Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. Her sister Lelia, who served in the US Air Force, and Mary Ann enjoyed visiting her and her family in the Pacific Northwest. She also enjoyed going out for Friday lunch with her “sister-friends.” ��Visitation will be held at Indian Springs Baptist Church on Saturday, October 4th beginning at 9:30 AM, with the graveside service to follow at 11 AM at Calhoun Cemetery.��In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to a charity of your choice.

09/25/2025

The West Jones Class of 1987 would like to extend our deepest sympathy to our classmate Scott Carmichael in the passing of his mother.

Linda Sue Carmichael, 82, of Laurel, MS, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. Born on April 22, 1943, in Yazoo City, Mississippi, Linda was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, as well as friend to many.

Mrs. Carmichael, better known as “Mama C” was known for many qualities.

As one of her grandson’s wrote, expressing the common thoughts of all: “…to know her is to love her! If you were hungry, she would feed you. If you needed a place to rest your head, she would house you. If you needed someone to listen to you, she would hear you.”
Momma’s devotion to others was evident in her commitment to her work. She started out at Mel-Mac’s Department store and left there to help our daddy in his stores, Mac’s Mini Marts. She dedicated her life to serving others through the store as an outreach to many.

Our momma followed hard after Christ and was such an example of the person we should all strive to be: a Christ-filled follower. As was said online, “She was put on this earth to serve and that is exactly what she did.” Ask anyone who knew her! From her talented eye for decorating for parties at her church, weddings and celebrations for loved ones, to her beautiful sparkly clothes, Mama C shone as bright as Jesus EVERY SINGLE DAY!

Today, we grieve her leaving, but we do not grieve as the world grieves for we grieve with the hope of Christ. She is celebrating and worshipping Jesus and those who know Him will one day join her.
She will be extremely missed, but we are comforted knowing that she is no longer suffering and that she is finally resting in her forever home!

See you later Mama C. We love you!

She is survived by her devoted husband of 64 years, William Malcolm “Billy Mac” Carmichael, Sr., and her loving children: sons, William “Malcolm” Carmichael, Jr. (Mari) and Scott Carmichael; and daughters, Debbie Maddox (Don) and Pam McBride (Frankie). Linda was cherished by her siblings: Eddie Paul Smith (Patsy), David Smith (Linda), Gary Smith, Mary Houston, Pat Avantz, and Martha Williams.

Linda's legacy continues through her grandchildren: Courtney Maddox, Michael Maddox (Rebecca), Chynna Cook (Steve), Jazz Callender (Eric), William Malcolm “Mac” Carmichael, III (Somer), Joseph “Kross” Carmichael, Danielle Cooley (Ben), Daniel McCarty, MyKenzie Carmichael Delk, Logan McBride (Darien), Laken McBride, Samuel “Sam” Piper, and Jade McBride, as well as her great-grandchildren: Mila Cook, Lucia Cook, Roman Cook, Swayze Callender, Willow Carmichael, William Malcolm Carmichael, IV, Wylie Carmichael, Trenton Cooley, Zoie Cooley, and Maddie McBride. There is also another precious great-grandchild on the way. In addition, she leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews that she loved as her own.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Claude Ira Smith and Mary Kathryn Davis Smith, her brothers: James Smith and Johnnie Smith; her brother-in-law, Howard Williams; and her grandchild Cody Maddox.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel, located at 4593 Indian Springs Rd, Laurel, MS. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 PM at the same location, with Wayne Williams and Greg Williams officiating. Burial will take place at Little Logan Cole Hill Memorial Cemetery, located behind Christway Baptist Church on Highway 84 West. Arrangements are under the care of Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel, and condolences may be shared online at their website.

After the celebration of life at Colonial Chapel, we will have a brief graveside continuance followed by a meal at the church for those who can stay and visit.

Family members, please don't forget to help us have a huge family picture taken before you leave.

Pallbearers will be William “Mac” Carmichael III, Kross Carmichael, Blane Holifield, Logan McBride, and Samuel Piper. Honorary Pallbearers are Michael Maddox, Steve Cook, Eric Callender, Ben Cooley, and Nick Scucchi
In lieu of flowers, if you would like to make a donation, please go through Christway Baptist Church or donor’s choice.

09/23/2025

The West Jones Class of 1987 would like to extend our deepest sympathy to our classmate, Joey Matthews in the passing of his mother.

Katie Norton Collins, 78, of Laurel, MS, passed away at her residence in Laurel on September 22, 2025. She was born on November 27, 1946 in Jones County, Mississippi.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 9:30AM until 11:00AM at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel in 4593 Indian Springs Rd, Laurel, MS. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 11:00AM at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel is in charge of arrangements. 601-649-3342.

She is survived by her loving husband, Dwight Collins, of 43 years. Other survivors include her son, Joey Matthews (Cheryl), her daughter, Leigh McCarty (Justin), and her grandsons, Kade Matthews (Mackenzie), Kace Matthews, and Kale Matthews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest “Mutt” and Juanita Norton.

Katie retired from the Jones County School System with 40 years of service. In her recent years, she spent her time volunteering faithfully at the American Legion Post 11. She will be remembered for her love of life and for her devotion to her family and friends and her unwavering faith.

Pallbearers will be Justin McCarty, Kade Matthews, Kace Matthews, Kale Matthews, Ken McLain, and Dwayne Holifield.

In lieu flowers, memorials may be sent to the American Legion Post 11 or Venture Church.

09/22/2025

Happy first day of Fall classmates 🍁

09/18/2025

The West Jones Class of 1987 would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the family of our classmate Steve Baker.

In Loving Memory of Warren Stephen “Steve” Baker
(April 21, 1969 - September 16, 2025)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Steve Baker, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, and friend. His sudden passing after a brief illness brings great sadness to all who knew and loved him. Our “Pops” was one-of-a-kind. He was always there to lend a hammer to what could be fixed or an ear for what required reassurance.

Steve was preceded in death by his father, Warren Sherrill Baker, and survived by his mother, Charlotte, and sisters Elizabeth & Stacy (Joey). A dutiful son, he devoted himself to caring for both of his parents in their later years.

Steve was a loving husband to Meredith for over 25 years. Together they raised four children, Erin (Jonathan) Rayburn, Megan Ekes, James (Desereigh) Baker, and Shawn (Angelina) Baker in a home filled with laughter, chaos, and love. They were also blessed with the joy of grandchildren - Christian, Adison, Kristina, Lennon, Alice, Jonas, Ben, and Everleigh – who brought them immense happiness and pride.

As a father, he was a source of guidance and strength, always placing his family’s well-being above all else. His wisdom and kindness will be missed by those who had the privilege of knowing him. His love for his children and grandchildren was immeasurable, and he took great pride in watching them grow and succeed.

A visitation will be held Saturday, September 20th, 2025, from 1:30-3:00 at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home in Laurel, located at 4593 Indian Springs Road. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 with Bro. Ken Johnson officiating. Steve’s memory will live on in the many lives he touched. May he rest in peace, knowing he was truly loved and revered by those who knew him best.

08/16/2025

The West Jones Class of 1987 would like to extend our deepest sympathy to our classmate John Stennett, in the passing of his father.

Jerry Dale Stennett, 84, of Hattiesburg, MS, passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Cedar Place Care Home in Laurel, MS. Born on September 14, 1940, in Ellisville, Mississippi, Jerry was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia Stamps Stennett, and his children, Chris Stennett, Mark Stennett, and John Stennett, as well as his step-daughter, Nan Meadows. Jerry was a proud grandfather to Casey Stennett, married to Kelli, and Logan Olafson, married to Devon.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Barna Stennett and Wilma Beach Stennett, his brother Glenn Stennett, and his sisters Floyce Evans, Pauline Dobson, Jean Wood, Helen Anderson, and DeeDee Koehler.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 1:00 PM until 3:00 PM at Ellisville Funeral Home, located at 1204 B Ave, Ellisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 PM at the same location, with Bro. David Rogers officiating. Jerry will be laid to rest at New Hope Baptist Church Cemetery in Ellisville, Mississippi. Arrangements are being handled by Ellisville Funeral Home.

08/15/2025

The West Jones Class of 1987 would like to extend our deepest sympathy to our former classmate, John Stennett in the passing of his father.

Jerry Dale Stennett, 84, of Hattiesburg, MS, passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Cedar Place Care Home in Laurel, MS. Born on September 14, 1940, in Ellisville, Mississippi, Jerry was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia Stamps Stennett, and his children, Chris Stennett, Mark Stennett, and John Stennett, as well as his step-daughter, Nan Meadows. Jerry was a proud grandfather to Casey Stennett, married to Kelli, and Logan Olafson, married to Devon.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Barna Stennett and Wilma Beach Stennett, his brother Glenn Stennett, and his sisters Floyce Evans, Pauline Dobson, Jean Wood, Helen Anderson, and DeeDee Koehler.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 1:00 PM until 3:00 PM at Ellisville Funeral Home, located at 1204 B Ave, Ellisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 PM at the same location, with Bro. David Rogers officiating. Jerry will be laid to rest at New Hope Baptist Church Cemetery in Ellisville, Mississippi. Arrangements are being handled by Ellisville Funeral Home.