Webb & Stephens Funeral Homes

03/11/2026

This National Morticians Day (March 11), we are profoundly proud to celebrate our team of dedicated women who bring compassion, strength, and innovation to funeral service, while also recognizing our fellow professionals across the industry.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we honor the female morticians and directors on our staff who bring unparalleled empathy, care, and precision to their work every single day.
In a field that requires both incredible strength and deep compassion, our women-led team is committed to serving families during their most difficult moments with dignity and grace.
Join us in thanking the women who make up our foundation! 🌸

03/10/2026

Russell "Rusty" Wayne Bonner

Services for Mr. Russell “Rusty” Wayne Bonner will be held Friday, March 13, 2026, 2:00 p.m. at Pleasant Hill Community Church with Bro. George Warner and Bro. Paul Raley officiating. Interment will follow at Springhill Church Cemetery.

Visitation will be held an hour prior to service at the church.

Clarkdale Volunteer Fire Department will be serving as pallbearers.

Rusty, 82, of Lauderdale County, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2026.

Rusty was born on February 9, 1944, to Roy Everett Bonner and Lorene Bonner. After the early loss of his mother, he was lovingly raised by his father and stepmother, Virgie Bonner, who helped shape the man he would become.

Rusty proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam era. After returning home, he dedicated many years to public service. He served his community through the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department, where he later retired after managing the inmate road crew. He was also a longtime member of the Clarkdale Volunteer Fire Department, continuing his commitment to helping and protecting others. Rusty was respected for his steady leadership, fairness, and the dignity with which he treated everyone.

In January of 1971, Rusty married the love of his life, Jessie Fulton Bonner, and together they built a life centered around family, faith, and hard work.

He was a faithful member of Pleasant Hill Methodist Church and a proud member of the local VFW. Rusty enjoyed motorcycles, old cars, and spending time with his family.

Rusty is survived by his son, David Bonner (Andrea), and his grandchildren: Brett Bonner (Anna Marie), Cody Bonner (Anna Marie), Troy Dukes (Julie), and Hayden Bonner (fiancée Katelyn DeWitt).

He was also the proud “Paw Paw” to six beloved great-granddaughters: Stephanie, Jessie Kay, and Maggie Elizabeth Bonner, daughters of Brett and Anna Marie; and Ava Larue, Nellah Reese, and Elsie Kate Bonner, daughters of Cody and Anna Marie.

Rusty was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Everett Bonner and Lorene Bonner, his stepmother Virgie Bonner, his beloved wife Jessie Fulton Bonner, and his sister Bonnie Porter.

Rusty will be remembered as a man who never met a stranger. He had a kind heart, quiet strength, and a genuine warmth that made people feel welcome wherever he went. Above all, he loved his family deeply and took great pride in watching them grow.

After losing Jessie last August, Rusty missed her dearly every day. Though his family grieves his loss, they take comfort in knowing that Rusty and Jessie are now joyfully reunited after a lifetime of love.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

View Russell "Rusty" Wayne Bonner's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/09/2026

Leslie Eugene Sykes

Leslie Eugene Sykes was born on April 12th, 1942, to Leslie and Leona Sykes, in Natchez, MS. Leslie passed away peacefully in Meridian, MS, on March 1st, 2026.

Leslie was a lively person who enjoyed telling stories and laughing with his cherished friend Bessie. He enjoyed telling stories about his jobs and his family.

Leslie always wanted to make sure he had Khaki pants. He also enjoyed eating any type of snack food from crackers to sweet cakes to even potted meat.

Leslie is preceded in death by his parents, Leslie M. Sykes and Leona D. Sykes, Sister, Gloria Maddox, son Christopher Dean Sykes and his niece Leisa Moore.

Leslie is survived by his special and loving friend, Bessie M. Silliman; Children, Anthony Benton Sykes and Leslie Virgina Anpicia; Grandchildren, Christopher David Sykes and Adam Anpicia; Sister, Peggy Cook; and Brother, Bradley L Sykes

View Leslie Eugene Sykes's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/09/2026

Because we have been a part of this community for over 150 years, we understand the immense value of heritage. That is why we believe supporting local history—and teaching it to future generations—is vital to the spirit of Meridian.
We are proud to highlight one of our community’s greatest treasures: Merrehope.
Just like Webb & Stephens, Merrehope is a survivor. Having withstood the trials of the Civil War, this magnificent Greek Revival home represents the resilience of our city. It stands as a physical testament to the memories of days gone by, offering a glimpse into our shared, unfolding story.
Teaching our children and neighbors about landmarks like Merrehope ensures that our unique history is not forgotten. It connects us to the shoulders we stand on and strengthens our community bonds.
We encourage you to visit, explore, and support the Merrehope home. Let’s protect the places that make Meridian special.

Come One, Come All to Merrehope!
Help us build the “We’re In This Together” Community Chain by creating a paper chain as tall as you are and adding it to our growing chain of community support.
👏 Special thanks to Tyler Harrell, Amanda Carney, and Katelyn Tomberlin with Webb & Stephens Funeral Homes for adding 199 inches to the chain!
Every link supports Merrehope and helps keep it a place of learning and inspiration for generations to come.

Community Chain: Now–March 14
🌼 Spring Break Scavenger Hunt Tour
March 10–14 | ⏰ 10 AM–3 PM
Guided mansion tour + prize bags
$5 per person (any age)
✨ Bring the kids and COUNT ON a great time!

03/08/2026

Once a rarity in what was traditionally a male-dominated profession, women now stand shoulder to shoulder, taking the greatest care of families in their most tender moments. This , we celebrate the strength, compassion, and grace of our female funeral directors, arrangers, and support staff. Thank you for leading with heart and bringing a delicate touch to our profession every single day. 🌹

03/06/2026

🌟 Happy National Employee Appreciation Day to my Webb & Stephens and Forest Lawn Memory Gardens family!🌟

They say working in funeral service isn't just a job; it’s a calling. To my incredible team at Webb & Stephens and Forest Lawn Memory Gardens, I want you to know that I see the tremendous heart you bring to work every single day.

You show up during the darkest hours for families, providing a steady, gentle presence when they need it most. From the first phone call to the final, respectful goodbye, your compassion, professionalism, and quiet kindness make all the difference. 💙

I am deeply grateful for your dedication, your empathy, and the way you support each other and the families we serve. You are the backbone of this funeral home. Thank you for your service and for being such amazing human beings.
❤️Amanda

03/02/2026

"Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment, until it becomes a memory." – Dr. Seuss
Every life is a storybook, filled with chapters of joy, laughter, and love. On this Dr. Seuss Day, we reflect on the beauty of a life lived and the memories that last forever.
Let us help you honor those precious memories and celebrate the unique story of your loved one. We are here to guide you through the quiet moments. 🕊️

02/14/2026

Valentine’s Day isn’t only about romance — it’s also a beautiful time to honor the love that shaped our lives. Today, we honor those who are no longer physically with us, but whose love still surrounds us.
There is no right or wrong way to feel on Valentine’s Day. If today is heavy, please know that it is okay to feel sad, and it is okay to feel love simultaneously.
We are holding space for all of you who are navigating grief today. May you find comfort in the memories that make you smile through the tears. How will you honor your loved one today? Maybe it’s a favorite meal, a song, or looking through old photos. We invite you to share a name or a memory in the comments below, if you feel comfortable. 🕯️🤍
Our hearts are with you today.

02/11/2026

☕️ Happy National Latte Day! ☕️
We know that sometimes the smallest comforts—like a warm cup of coffee—can offer a moment of peace during a difficult time. Whether you are stopping by to pre-plan, visiting a loved one, or just need a quiet place to sit, our doors are open and the coffee is hot.
Come share a "latte" love with us today.
What’s your favorite memory of sharing a coffee with a loved one? Let us know in the comments. 🕊

02/07/2026

From all of us at Webb & Stephens Funeral Homes & Forest Lawn Memory Gardens, we extend our deepest love and sympathy to Donna Jill's family. To have known her was truly an honor and a privilege. Her passion for Lauderdale County was inspiring, and we are profoundly thankful for her friendship. She will be greatly missed.

02/06/2026

Grief doesn't follow a timeline. It isn't a straight line, and it rarely disappears completely. Instead, it transforms, shifting from an overwhelming presence to a quiet reminder of love.
It is okay to hold both pain and love at the same time. Whether your grief is quiet or loud today, please know you are not alone on this journey.
We are committed to supporting you long after the funeral service is over. We invite you to explore the "Grief" tab on our website. It is filled with articles, videos, and support guides intended to offer comfort and practical guidance when you need it most.

https://www.webbstephens.com/grief-resources

01/23/2026

J L Dearman

J. L. Dearman was born to Leonard and Myrtle Dearman on April 27th, 1943, in Clarke County, MS. J. L. Passed from this life surrounded by his loving family on January 22nd, 2026.

J. L. was full of life and always had a sense of humor. He enjoyed playing jokes and making his family laugh. He enjoyed making sure his family was always smiling.

J. L. Also was a jack of all sorts of trades. He built a grill and even a whole car port. He could fix anything. He was also very hardworking and took good care of his family.

He loved his family so much and would do anything for them. He especially loved his grandchildren and doting on them. He even took care of his Mother-in-Law because he loved his family that much

He loved his wife dearly. He treasured her so much in the 24 years they were married and always made sure she knew that and he also made sure others knew that she was the best woman ever.

J. L. is preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Myrtle Dearman; son, Joey Dearman; and brothers, Sam Dearman, Jerry Dearman, and Roger Dearman.

J.L. is survived by his devoted wife, Nelda Dearman; sons, Danny Dearman (Lisa) and Shane White (Sommer); Daughters, Angie Meitzen (Rick), Shana Davis (Jon), Miranda Cunningham, Kristie Skipper (Randy) and Shavon Armstrong; Grandchildren, Christopher Gray, Matthew McCraw, Bradyn McMullan, Layla White, David Dearman (Erica), Krystal Fecteau (Austin), Janey Perryman (Kyle), Sydney Cunningham, Matt Dugas, Abigail Cunningham, Emily Cunningham, Blaze Howard (Jessica), Storm Howard, Skyye Howard, Aaron Skipper (Dana), Ethan Skipper, Rebecca Stanwood (Dusty) and Pam Comans; Great Grandchildren, Abigail Dearman, James Wyatt Dearman, Harper Fecteau, Jack Fecteau, Paisley Perryman, Granger Hall, Delta Perryman, Rosie, Parker Skipper, Livi Skipper and one on the way; Sister, Elizabeth Smith; and Numerous Nieces and Nephew

Serving as Pallbearers, Aaron Skipper, Danny Dearman, Ethan Skipper, Shane White, Kyle Perryman, and Jon Davis. Serving as Honorary Pallbearer is Bill Davenport.

An evening visitation will be held on Monday, January 26, 2026, from 6 to 8 PM. The following day, Tuesday, January 27, 2026, Chapel Service will begin at 1 PM with visitation an hour prior to service. Brother Josh Green will be officiating the service.

The staff of Webb & Stephens Funeral Homes-Downtown is grateful for the opportunity to honor J L’s life and memory and to serve his loving family during this time.

View J L Dearman's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.