Ferreira Funeral Services - Macclenny

12/28/2025

The decision on where to lay yourself to rest should not have to be made in a rush, and knowing your options beforehand will also make the final arrangements for loved ones less stressful at the time of death. At Ferreira Funeral Services we appreciate the need for our families to take their time.
💻www.ferreirafuneralservices.com

12/28/2025

12/25/2025

Wishing everyone a joyous and Merry Christmas!🎄
As we come together during this special time, our hope is that each of us experiences a safe and blessed holiday with our loved ones. Amidst the delicious meals and joyful celebrations, let's take a moment to reflect on the true essence of this season.

Isaiah 9:6 "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government will rest upon His shoulder; and his shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

12/23/2025

Kidwell – Sondra Elaine Kidwell, age 80, of Macclenny, Florida passed away peacefully on December 22, 2025, at Macclenny Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Sondra was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on July 26, 1945, to the late Charles Engelhardt and Florence Elaine Camp Engelhardt. Sondra was raised in Ohio and then Hialeah, Florida. While in school, she met her best friend and forever companion, Richard Kidwell. Before graduating from Hialeah High School, the two were united in marriage on April 24, 1963. Sondra was devoted to her family and cherished her role as wife, mother, and grandmother. Being a mother was her greatest joy, and she was very active in her children’s lives and schooling. She served as president of the PTA for several years at her children’s schools. Once her children began middle school, Sondra started her career in food service. She worked as a waitress at Howard Johnson’s Restaurant, where she earned a promotion to manager. In 1981, Sondra and her family relocated to Altamonte Springs, Florida, where she continued her career as a restaurant manager. In the late 1980s, the family made Bryceville, FL their home, where Sondra began her longtime career at Dandee Foods. She proudly served in the Accounts Payable department until her retirement. In 2015, Sondra made her final move and chose Baker County as her forever home. She resided at Macclenny Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the past 10 years. During that time, she created many cherished memories, enjoyed many bingo games that brought out her competitive spirit, and found creativity in making crafts. The bonds she formed and the lives she touched with staff and residents will be everlasting. Sondra was much more than a resident—she was an advocate. She proudly served as President of the Residents’ Council, helping promote residents’ voices, protect those who lived there, and communicate with the dedicated staff. Known for living life to the fullest, Sondra was always laughing, dancing, and bringing light to others. She was a true treasure and will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Above all, Sondra was most passionate about her family, and she adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Life was truly sweeter being a grandmother and great-grandmother. Sondra was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Kidwell, parents and her sister-in-law, Bobbie Engelhardt.

Sondra is survived by her children, Cindy (Kevin) Smith and Lisa (Roy) Hutto both of Macclenny, FL, Michelle (Steve) Pollard of Brooklet, GA, and Richard (Bob Rymer) Kidwell, Jr. of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; brother, Charles Dennis Engelhardt of Ocala, FL; 10 grandchildren, Ashlee (Cody) Whiddon, Justin (Matt) Hutto, Kristin (Mitch) Faudree, Holly (Josh Rochay) Smith, Cody (Heather) Hutto, Autumn (Freddie) Stapleton, Derek Cowart, Eric Cowart, Ashlee Cowart, Travis Pollard; 16 great grandchildren, Aubree, Maverick, Luke, Emma, Beau, Brady, Cooper, Chloee, Kaiden, Bella, Bryson, Victoria, Tessa, Cameron, Cadence, Chase; along with several extended family members and friends.

Sondra’s Family will have a Celebration of her precious life (as she requested) after the holidays. Any flowers can be sent to the celebration later, or monetary donations can be made to COMMUNITY HOSPICE (800) 253-6681. The arrangements are under the care and direction of V. TODD FERREIRA FUNERAL SERVICES, 250 North Lowder Street, Macclenny, FL 32063 (904)259-5700. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family’s guest book.

12/19/2025

Ingram – Betty Jean Weston Ingram, age 95, of Glen St. Mary, Florida passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Baya Pointe Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Lake City. She was born in Birmingham, Alabama on March 31, 1930, to the late Arnold Marcus Seale and Katie Moore Seale. Jean was raised in Birmingham, Alabama and graduated from Ensley High School. Shortly after graduation, Jean married her best friend, Henry Morgan Weston, on December 23, 1949. They shared 53 years of marriage and were blessed with two children. Jean was deeply devoted to her family. Henry and Jean raised their family in Texas, traveling throughout the state as Henry served as a Methodist minister. During this time, Jean worked as a Medical Records Technician for several hospitals while also balancing her roles as a pastor’s wife, mother and grandmother. Following Henry’s retirement, the couple relocated to Palatka, Florida, and later to Virginia to be closer to family. After Henry’s passing in 2003, Jean rekindled a relationship with her high school sweetheart, William “Bill” Ingram. After a brief long-distance romance, they were joyfully married in 2011 in Macclenny, Florida, at the home of Jean’s granddaughter. Jean and Bill made their home in Foley, Alabama where they shared 5 amazing years. After Bill’s passing, Jean made Glen St. Mary, Florida, her forever home. Jean was a woman of many talents and deep faith. She was a gifted artist who loved painting and working with her hands, and she found great joy in knitting—continuing to knit up until just three days before her passing. Her creativity was matched by her strong spiritual life. Although she was not a formal member of Raiford Road Church, she lovingly considered it her church family. More than anything, Jean cherished her family and adored the time she was given with them. She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Henry Morgan Weston and William “Bill” Ingram; and sister, Barbara Hill.

Jean is survived by her children, Marcus “Marc” Weston of Ft. Worth, TX and Kathy (Eddie) Anderson of Glen St. Mary, FL; grandchildren, Jason Anderson, Kacie (Phillip) Kennedy, and Bailey (Tyler) Whittle; great grandchildren, Olivia, Claire, Lincoln, and Naomi; along with several extended family members and friends.

Jean’s family will celebrate her life privately and private interment will be held at Valhalla Cemetery in Bessemer, Alabama. The arrangements are under the care and direction of V. TODD FERREIRA FUNERAL SERVICES, 250 North Lowder Street, Macclenny, FL 32063 (904) 259-5700. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family’s guest book.

12/13/2025

Litton- Marylin Gregory Litton, age 88, of Sanderson, Florida passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025. She was born in Huntington, West Virginia on July 7, 1937, to the late Alfonso Linwood Gregory and Mary McLaughlin. Marylin was raised in West Virginia and graduated from Marshall High School. She furthered her education at Marshall University and then proudly served our country in the United States Army. Education was her calling and her joy. Following her honorable discharge from the military she went back to Marshall University to earn her degree and had a long successful career as an Educator. Throughout her career, she touched countless students and inspired others with her dedication and genuine love for helping people grow. Outside of work, she found delight in the simple pleasures. She was an avid reader of murder mysteries, always eager to solve the next mystery. Marylin treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren, whom she adored beyond measure. Cruises were another favorite. She enjoyed the adventure, sense of exploration, and she cherished the many memories made at sea. More than anything, Marylin loved her role as wife, mother and grandmother. She certainly treasured her family and loved having everlasting moments with them. Marylin was preceded in death by her parents and her husband of more than 30 years, Keith A. Litton.

Marylin is survived by her daughters, Kimberly L. (James M.) Farley, IV of Sanderson, FL and Roxane M. Baldwin of Ironton, Ohio; 7 grandchildren, Emily Farley, Jimmy Farley, Cody Farley, Kaila Baldwin (Timmy) Martin, Amanda Baldwin, Kimo Baldwin, Ashlee Baldwin, and Kapono Baldwin; 3 great grandchildren, Connor Martin, Oliver Martin, and Kalani Baldwin; special cousin, Ann Wade of Huntington, WV; along with several extended family members and friends.

A Celebration Gathering will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025 from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Ferreira Funeral Services Chapel. The arrangements are under the care and direction of V. TODD FERREIRA FUNERAL SERVICES, 250 North Lowder Street, Macclenny, FL 32063 (904) 259-5700. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family’s guest book.

12/12/2025

Kinard – Merle Boatwright Kinard, age 81, of Macclenny, Florida passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at Macclenny Nursing and Rehabilitation Center with her loving family by her side. Merle was born in Lawtey, Florida on October 5, 1944, to the late Marion Boatwright and Effie Manning Boatwright. She grew up in Lawtey and moved to Bradenton during her senior year of high school. After graduation, she returned to North Florida and settled in Jacksonville, where she began her longtime career with BellSouth Telephone Company. Starting as a Long-Distance Operator, Merle advanced through the company and concluded her 31-year career as a Fraud Call Investigator. She retired with pride after decades of dedicated service. One of Merle’s favorite roles was as a wife and mother. She married the love of her life, Leonard B. Kinard, Jr., on October 11, 1968, and they were blessed with 57 amazing years of marriage and a precious son. In 2004, they made Baker County their home, where Merle continued to touch the lives of friends, neighbors, and her church family. Merle was a God-fearing woman whose faith guided her throughout her life. She was a longtime member of Glen Baptist Church, where she thoroughly enjoyed worshipping alongside her church family. Merle was also a woman of timeless style. She loved fashion and had a particular fondness for jewelry—Pandora being one of her favorites. She enjoyed shopping, exploring estate sales, and traveling whenever she had the opportunity. Her impeccable taste and joy in finding special treasures were hallmarks of her personality. More than anything, Merle loved her family and cherished every moment with them. She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, D.E. Boatwright and Warren Boatwright.

Merle is survived by her loving husband, Leonard B. Kinard, Jr. of Macclenny, FL; son, Philip Kinard of Fernandina Beach, FL; along with several extended family members and friends.

A Celebration of Merle’s Life will be held on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at 2:00 pm at V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services Chapel with Pastor Chas Rowland officiating. Interment will follow at Lawtey Cemetery in Lawtey, FL. The family will receive friends on Sunday an hour prior to the service at the funeral home. The arrangements are under the care and direction of V. TODD FERREIRA FUNERAL SERVICES, 250 North Lowder Street, Macclenny, FL 32063 (904) 259-5700. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family’s guest book.

12/09/2025

Bennett – James “Jimmy” Gail Bennett, age 58, of Macclenny, Florida passed away on Monday, December 8, 2025. Jimmy was born in Macclenny, Florida on November 23, 1967, to his loving parents, Benny Joe Bennett and late Donna Hart Bennett. James was a lifelong resident of Baker County. He graduated from Baker County High School in 1985 and furthered his education at Lake City Community College and University of Florida where he proudly earned his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 1991. Jimmy was very successful professionally. He was exceptionally dedicated to his profession, beginning his career with the State of Florida’s Department of Transportation in Lake City, where he served for 20 years. He later joined RS&H Engineering, a private consulting firm in Jacksonville. In 2017, Jimmy joined the Jacksonville Port Authority, where his leadership, integrity, and expertise quickly became evident. In 2022, he was appointed Chief Operating Officer, a role in which he proudly and faithfully served until his passing. Throughout his distinguished career, Jimmy received many awards and accolades that honored his contributions to transportation, civil engineering, and his public service. Jimmy also served diligently within his community, where his impact remains immeasurable. In 2014, he was elected as the District 4 County Commissioner for the Baker County Board of Commissioners. His dedication over the past 12 years has brought meaningful and lasting contributions to the county he loved. Jimmy was a man of deep faith, depending daily on his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was a longtime member of Macclenny Primitive Baptist Church and found great joy in serving through the music ministry, faithfully leading the congregation in worship. Jimmy was most proud of his family and grateful for his role as a husband and father. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Kimberly Thornton, whom he met while working his first job at Winn-Dixie. They were lovingly married on July 25, 1992, and he was delighted to be blessed with two amazing children. Jimmy enjoyed spending time outdoors; boating down the intracoastal waterways, traveling Internationally, tubing at Ocean Pond, camping, and riding his ATV. Jimmy also loved to dance, a joyful trait he learned from his father. Jimmy lived life to the fullest, cherished every moment spent with family and friends, always trusting in his Lord and Savior. He leaves behind a legacy that will forever be remembered. Jimmy was preceded in death by his mother, Donna Hart Bennett; brother, Wesley Bennett; maternal grandparents, Gale and Leona Hart; and paternal grandparents, James Bennett and Lula Bennett. Lula lovingly raised Jimmy as her own and considered him a son.

Jimmy is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Kimberly Bennett of Macclenny, FL; children, Colton Bennett and Cloey Bennett both of Macclenny, FL; father, Benny Joe (Patricia) Bennett; brothers, Joe (Tonya) Bennett and Lex (Pam) Bennett; sisters, Susan (Keith) Woodruff and Monica (Tyler) Page; aunts, Verna Crews who Jimmy considered a second mom and June Brescia; 29 nieces and nephews; along with many extended family members and friends.

A Celebration of Jimmy’s Life will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 11:00 am at Christian Fellowship Temple with Elder Michael Green officiating. Interment will follow at North Prong Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 5:00 – 8:00 pm at the church. The arrangements are under the care and direction of V. TODD FERREIRA FUNERAL SERVICES, 250 North Lowder Street, Macclenny, FL 32063 (904) 259-5700. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family’s guest book.