Magnolia Chapel Funeral Homes

04/02/2026

Suzanne Michelle Knox

Suzanne Michelle Knox, of Buhl, Alabama, passed away at her home on March 28, 2026.

Suzanne was born on September 18, 1969, to Kenneth Everette Stripling and Jan Allison Hamner. She grew up in the Tuscaloosa area alongside her brother, Steve, and graduated from Central High School in 1987.

For several years, she worked at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Tuscaloosa, where she formed many lifelong friendships and met her husband, Charles Steven Knox II (known as "Steven"). The two were married in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, in 2012.

Suzanne, lovingly known as "Suzi" to friends and family, was known for her kind and lively spirit. She had a wonderful sense of humor and was often the life of the party. She spent her life going above and beyond to care for those she loved.

She preferred spending her weekends "yard sellin'" and visiting estate sales, always looking for vintage treasures to give new life to. People recognized Suzanne for her 80's-style curly hair, flared jeans, and bright, colorful outfits. For a few years she ran a small antique business she named, "Funky Junkin Girl & Vintage Vibe Market" in Cottondale, Alabama that was beloved by the community.

In recent years, Suzanne and Steven made their home in Buhl, where they settled down to raise cows and fish in their pond, embracing the simple joys of country life. It was here she filled her days spending quality time with her granddaughter, Addie, whom she adored. Though her family was small, her husband, son, and granddaughter were the center of her world.

Suzanne leaves behind her husband, Charles Steven Knox II; her son, Ethan Alexander Elmore, and his wife, Elizebeth Nicole Elmore; her granddaughter, Adeline Lilith Elmore; her stepson, Trey Knox; her brother, Steve Stripling; her uncle, Hal Hamner; and extended family members who will miss her dearly.

A memorial service will be held at Shepherd's Way Christian Church, 15486 Highway 43 N, Northport, Alabama, on Friday, April 10. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., with a service to follow. The family kindly requests that those in attendance wear purple in Suzanne's honor.

Suzanne will be deeply missed by all who were lucky enough to have her in their lives.

03/30/2026

James Douglas Simpson

James Douglas “Doug” Simpson, age 76, of Samantha, Ala., passed away March 28, 2026, at Glen Haven Health and Rehabilitation where he was a long-term resident. Services will be 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Magnolia Chapel North with Bro. Terry Oswalt officiating. Burial will follow in Piney Woods Cemetery with Magnolia Chapel North directing. Visitation will be 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Wednesday at Magnolia Chapel North.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Simpson; parents, Samantha and Brady Simpson; brother, Brady Simpson, Jr.; sisters, Martha Nell Barrentine, and Fannie Jane Swindle; and son-in-law, Terry Cushen.

Survivors include his daughters, Rebecca Cushen, Mary Clanton (Greg), Tammy Smith (Bryan), and Lisa Gann (Jason); grandchildren, Kristie Yerby (Nathan), Samantha Smith (Josh), Sidney Olmstead (Michael), Joseph Barksdale (Madison), Gage Lowery, Brady Lowery, Rosie Adams, Jace Gann, and Cassie Hartley (David); and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Doug spent most of his life in the Samantha (Sterling) Community. He was a logger and truck driver by trade. He spent his days providing and caring for his family. He was a man of few words, but his actions showed the depth of his love. He enjoyed his work because he got to do what he loved, and that was spending time outside in the fresh air and driving “Big Trucks” as his children and grandchildren liked to call them. He loved his family and community, and he will be missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

The family would like to thank the staff and residents at Glen Haven for supporting James and taking part in his life.

Pallbearers will be Brady Lowery, Gage Lowery, Lane Smith, Josh Smith, Joseph Barksdale, and Scott Bigham.

Honorary pallbearers are Hospice of West Alabama.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of West Alabama.

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03/30/2026

Today we recognize the doctors who serve our communities with integrity, compassion, and unwavering dedication.

Happy National Doctors’ Day!

03/30/2026

Lorraine Teresa Saunders

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03/28/2026

Dennis Earl Holliman

Dennis Earl Holliman, age 77, of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, passed away on March 27, 2026.

John 14:1-4

Born in Pickens County, Alabama, Dennis lived a life defined by dedication—to his faith, his family, and his work. He spent over 40 years as a Sales Representative with Thompson Tractor, where he built lasting relationships and earned the respect of colleagues and customers alike through his strong work ethic and integrity.

A faithful servant of the Lord, Dennis served as a Deacon at Taylorville Baptist Church. His commitment to his church and community was a reflection of the values he lived by each day.

Dennis found his greatest joy in time spent with his family. Whether traveling to the mountains or visiting Cades Cove, those moments together were what he treasured most. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather.

He is survived by his loving wife, Melita Holliman; his daughters, Donna Holliman Strange (Sky Strange), Leigh Holliman, and Amanda Holliman Smithson (Johnathan Smithson); his grandchildren, Caleb Dimond, Cameron Dimond, Brooke Smith, Katie Hutchins, Nathan Smithson, Damon Smithson, and Addy Smithson; his great-grandson, Beckham Storey.

He is also survived by his brother, Keith Holliman (Cathy Holliman).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Laura Jones and David Earl Holliman Jr.

Funeral services will be held at Taylorville Baptist Church on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.

Dennis will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his legacy of faith, love, and devotion will live on through his family for generations to come.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Enhabit Hospice would be appreciated. Many thanks to Jada Childers as well as the other nurses with Enhabit Hospice

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03/28/2026

We hope you enjoy your special day, Angela!

03/27/2026

Gerald (Jerry) Keith Eure, Ed.D

Gerald (Jerry) Keith Eure, Ed.D, died on March 26, 2026, at age 92. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 on Tuesday, March 31 at First United Methodist Church of Tuscaloosa with reception following. The service will be conducted by Dr. Ken Dunivant and Reverend Robin Wilson. Burial with immediate family will precede the service at Sunset Funeral Home in the Veteran garden.

Dr. Eure is survived by his wife of 64 years, Elizabeth Jane Eure and three sons: Gerald Keith Eure (Cindy) of Hoover, AL; Stephen Taylor Eure (Ava) of Northport, AL and Timothy Clifton Eure(Tina) of Northport, AL ; three grandchildren Daniel Eure (Caroline) of Madison, AL; Amanda Stamm (Tyler) of Nashville, TN, and Jennifer Pickle(James) of Leeds, AL and one great granddaughter, Olivia Schrencongost of Leeds. Other survivors include many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and Morris Eure of Forest, MS and his brother Donald Ray Eure of Senatobia, MS.

Dr. Eure was born on January 18, 1934, in Vernon, Texas. He grew up in Forest, MS and graduated high school there. He attended East Central Junior College in Decatur, MS where he earned his Associate of Arts degree. He served in the United States army during the Korean War from September 1953-September 1955. He then achieved his B.A. degree from Mississippi College in Clinton, MS; his Master of Social Work Degree from Tulane University and his Doctor of Education degree from the University of Alabama.

His career included Child Welfare work with the Mississippi Dept of Public Welfare where he served in several capacities including district supervisor. He was the founder and executive director of the Family Counseling Agency in Huntsville, AL and worked in that capacity for seven years. He came to the University of Alabama School of Social Work in 1968 as a member of the first group of professors after the school was created by legislative action. He served in many positions while at the school including Director of Field Education and Director of the BSW program.

Dr. Eure was well known for his compassion and his concern for students and was sought out by many for his kind listening and his skillful advice. He was held in high regard for his integrity and moral values.

While at the university, he received many awards and honors which were the result of the respect and esteem with which he was regarded by both students and fellow faculty. He received the Jean B. Rayfield award in 1990 and 1995 in recognition of outstanding contributions to students and in recognition of his dedication to the promotion of student well-being. He was inducted into Phi Alpha Honor Society and received the Frank R. Egan Award for Outstanding representation of Phi Alpha ideals. In 1996 he was awarded the Howard B. Gundy award given in recognition and appreciation for distinguished service to the faculty, staff, students, School of Social Work and to the profession of social work. He was awarded the Lifetime Achievement award by the Alabama Conference of Social Work in Feb 2007. Upon his retirement, he was awarded the distinction of retired Professor Emeritus. In August of 2012, he was inducted into the Alabama Social Work Hall of Fame in recognition of his many contributions to the field and practice of social work and service to his community. Many social agencies in the state of Alabama have been staffed or directed by his former students.

Dr. Eure was a loyal fan of UA sports including football and gymnastics. He and his wife were privileged to travel extensively through the years. They served on the International Friends Board and were "family" to many international students, some of whom they continued to have relationship and contact with after leaving the University. Dr. Eure was very active in giving back to his community after his retirement in 1996. He served as a volunteer and member of the Board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity. He was a volunteer at Hospice of West Alabama, Community Soup Bowl, Caring Days Day care and DCH Regional medical center. He was an active member of First United Methodist Church of Tuscaloosa where he previously sang in the choir and was a member of the Lee Sunday School Class. He lived out his faith through his service and his response to the needs of others. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Matthew 25 Fund at First United Methodist Church, 800 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401.

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03/25/2026

Every life tells a story.

The memories we share, the traditions we pass down, and the lives we celebrate continue to grow long after the moment has passed.

03/24/2026

Lona Grace Crook Barth

Lona Grace Crook Barth, 91 of Tuscaloosa, entered the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on March 16, 2026 at the home of her daughter in Tuscaloosa, AL. She was born November 30, 1934 to Edna Earl Elrod Crook and George Edwin Crook in Calhoun, GA.

The family moved to Lizella, GA during her senior year at Calhoun High School. Following graduation Grace joined the family in Lizella. She married Robert E. Barth in 1957, divorcing after several years. Grace raised two wonderful daughters from that marriage with help from her parents. Her daughters and her grandson were the light of her life. She was very active in Lizella Baptist Church, serving as youth leader for many years.

Grace began her career in federal service at age 18 as a clerk at Robins AFB, GA. Her sharp mind and constant desire to grow and learn moved her through the system over her 38-year career from clerk to her final position as War Planning Analyst in logistics. She was a highly respected subject matter expert in her position and was called in during any national emergencies, often spending several days "locked" in the "War Room." During those years, she had several trips to the Pentagon in Washington, transferred to Wright Patterson AFB in Ohio for five years and accepted an assignment for one year at Osan AFB, Seoul, Korea.

After retirement, Grace enjoyed caring for her grandson, Brandon, who she said made being a Grandmom really grand! She always said she loved everywhere she lived and she always made good friends in those places. She lived close to her youngest daughter and grandson in Alabama for several years then moved to Graham, TX in 2013 to spend time with her sister. In Graham Grace enjoyed many "sister trips" together. The favorite was the trip to New York, complete with buying one another a felt hat (red of course for Grace) followed by a carriage ride through Central Park under falling snow. They had a wonderful time talking about early family days when she used to go from work to Arthur Miller dance lessons then come home and teach that lesson to brother Corrie. He became quite the dancer. After almost ten years in Graham, Grace moved to live with her oldest daughter and son-in-law in Tuscaloosa, AL.

Grace is survived by her daughters, Barbara Barth Nichols (Dow), Gail Barth Horn (Jimmy), sister, Reta McCallum (Wayne), grandson, Brandon Mullis (Nicole), step-granddaughter, Isabelle Nichols, step-grandson, Aaron Nichols (Valerie) along with many beloved nieces and nephews and other extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edna and George Crook, and her brothers, Corrie N. Crook and Harry David Crook.

A family Celebration of Life Service will be held at the family plot at Oconee Baptist Church, Commerce, GA at 11:00 am on April 11, 2026

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice of West Alabama, 3851 Loop Rd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 or Oconee Baptist Church, 4554 Hwy 82N, Commerce, GA 30529.

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03/24/2026

Jane Richardson Ellis

Jane Richardson Ellis died peacefully on March 23rd, 2026, at Moundville Health and Rehabilitation. She was born on September 15th, 1944, in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama to John Dewey Richardson Sr and Janie Montgomery Richardson and raised in the Mount Olive Community of Coker. She was the youngest and only daughter of five.

Her friends and family knew her as a loving mother who was fiercely protective of her four daughters. She was a gifted chef, with a particular talent for her family’s favorite homemade macaroni and cheese. Her recipes and cooking often came from the heart rather than a book and was a skill she perfected in cooking for her five precious grandchildren.

She was the loving wife of George “Sonny” Ellis for 43 years. The pair loved to share time on the river in the beauty of the natural world. They spent countless hours across from each other with only each’s presence while fishing, making memories of love in the mundane.

She spent her career as a seamstress making the special moments a pin better for anyone that she could. She did so on her own terms running her own business and teaching her daughters the importance of working hard for what mattered. A pair of pants hemmed, a formal dress gathered, or a button put back on was no challenge, but along came her grandchildren with a particular affinity for dumping out all her buttons and retirement into full time “me-me” called out.

She was a talented musician and gave back her talents playing the piano or organ when needed. A life-long member of Mount Olive Baptist Church, she found joy in using the talents the Lord provided her.

She spent her life in service and love to her family, her friends, and her community.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 43 years, George “Sonny” Ellis; parents, John Dewey and Janie Richardson; and brothers, John Dewey Jr, Calvin Wayne, Tom “Tommy” Belton, and Dewey Hershel.

She is survived by her children, Daphne Ellis, Jill Ellis, Susie (Joey) Mullenix, and Angie (Calvin) Kuykendall; grandchildren Anna, Abbie (Dustin), Gracie, John Ellis, and Matt; great-grandchildren Ava, Thomas, James, Harlie, Alyssa, and Grace; and many loving nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Calvin Kuykendall, Joey Mullenix, John Ellis Kuykendall, Matt Kuykendall, David Richardson, and Jeff Richardson. Honorary Pallbearers will be Moundville Health and Rehabilitation staff.

Services will be 2:00 p.m. on Saturday March 28th, 2026, at Magnolia Chapel North with visitation one hour prior. Brother Scott Fulford will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations should be directed to Mount Olive Baptist Church Cemetery fund or Moundville Health and Rehabilitation Activities fund.

Mount Olive Baptist Church

13303 Mt Olive Road

Coker, Al 35452

Moundville Health and Rehabilitation

121 Union Street

Moundville, Al 35474

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03/23/2026

James Bruce Hallman Sr.

James Bruce Hallman, Sr., age 88, of Tuscaloosa, Ala., passed away March 21, 2026, at Forest Manor Health & Rehab. Services will be 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Mt. Hebron Baptist Church with Rev. Glenn Kennedy and Rev. Billy Jones officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with Magnolia Chapel North directing. Visitation will be 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, at the church.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Edith Lynch Hallman; his parents, Jessie and Avis Hallman; brother, R. B. Hallman; sisters, Ruby Spruill, Bama McDaniel, and Barbara West; stepson, Bobby Jones; and step-son-in-law, Herbert Jones.

Survivors include his wife, Joyce Jones Hallman, Tuscaloosa; daughters, Tina Watkins, Duncanville, and Tammy Trawick (Bill), Northport; son, James Bruce Hallman Jr. (Debra), Northport; stepchildren, Dorita Jones, Talladega, Donita Reid, Gordo, and Rev. Billy Jones (Tammy), Jacksonville, Fla.; grandchildren, Emiley Madison (Clint), Kristin Shuttlesworth, Kimberly Stroup (Alex), Adam Watkins (Jennie), and Matthew Trawick (Kassi); great-grands, Katelyn McNutt (Jace), Kalea Hewitt, Rylan Shuttlesworth, Jackson Watkins, Eydie Madison, McKinley Trawick, Landry Stroup, Jameson Watkins, James Brady Trawick; and many many step-grands and step-great-grands.

Bruce graduated from Montgomery HS in 1956. He was a member of the national guard. He worked at the Tuscaloosa Co. Courthouse for many years. During this time, he attended the Univ. of Ala., where he earned a Bachelor Degree in Education. Although he loved teaching the skills of electrical wiring, plumbing, and building, his true love was farming and raising pigs. Many folks may know him from the Farmer’s Market in Tuscaloosa. He and his wife, Edith, owned and operated a produce store on 15th Street in Tuscaloosa, and eventually The Corner Market in Fayette. Before retiring from farming, he sold from the back of his truck at various places in Northport.

Bruce was blessed to find another love in life – his current wife, Joyce Jones Hallman of 23 years. They loved traveling in their motorhome, but put down roots at Lake Guntersville, where he fished and Joyce would read. Bruce gained a special friend with his step-son-in-law, Herbert Jones. They loved to talk.

Bruce was a member of Mt. Hebron Church. He knew when his day came, he would be in heaven with his Lord and Savior. When he talked about heaven, tears of joy always flowed.

Pallbearers will be Adam, Jackson, and Jameson Watkins, Matthew and James Brady Trawick, Rylan Shuttlesworth, Kevin Hallman, and Andrew Connell.

Honorary pallbearers are Bill Trawick, Bobby and Patsy Hallman, Jim and Charlotte Guin, friends at The Crossings of North River, Brownville and Samantha Communities, caregivers, Dianne Gregory, Trinity Rawling, Forest Manor Health & Rehab, Dr. Scott Fulgham, and Alabama Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mt. Hebron Cemetery Fund.

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03/23/2026

Spring cleaning isn’t just about closets and paperwork.
It’s also a great time to organize the plans your family will one day need.

A little planning now can bring a lot of peace later.

Call us to learn how simple it can be.