Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home, 307 S Palm Avenue, Palatka, FL (2025)

11/18/2025

Although not all veterans grieve in the same way, sometimes the unique conflict situation veterans face and their inability to take time off to grieve the loss of a fellow service member, frequently brings on specific instances of survivor guilt and traumatic grief. Survivor guilt can be very intense for veterans, in fact it is most common among veterans diagnosed with Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Traumatic grief occurs when a loss is sudden, violent, and/or completely unexpected. This kind of grieving can also extend into physical pain, mental anxiety, and stress disorders. There are numerous resources available from family, friends, and organizations who stand ready to offer assistance. To learn more about veteran offerings, contact us at your convenience.

11/17/2025

Mary Lou Ebel (Castle), 83, of Green Cove Springs, Florida, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025, in Saint Augustine, Florida. She was born November 12, 1942, in Xenia, Ohio, to Everett Castle and Mildred Bennett.
Mary Lou dedicated her life to her family as a devoted homemaker and mother. She was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she shared her musical gifts as an organist and choir member for many years. Those who knew her remember her kind, patient, and loving spirit.
She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Norma Jean, Ronald, and Ruth Ann.
Mary Lou is survived by her beloved husband of 58 years, Richard J. Ebel; her children Chris, Chuck, Dave, Bill, Kathy, Carol, and Becky; 12 cherished grandchildren: Kyle, Charles, Shelby, Matthew, Nathan, Sydney, Jacob, Caitlin, Issac, Sophia, Samantha, and Natalie; and the many lives she touched with her gentle presence.
A viewing will be held Wednesday, November 20, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Johnson Overturf Funeral Home, 307 South Palm Avenue, Palatka, Florida 32177.
Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at Mary’s Book of Memories page at www.j-ofunerals.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.

11/17/2025

Planning a funeral can be overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate the process alone. Our compassionate team is here to assist with every aspect, ensuring your loved one is honored with care and respect. Visit our website today to learn more: https://www.j-ofunerals.com/our-services/funeral-services

11/15/2025

You can receive military funeral honors and memorial items whether you’re interred in a veterans cemetery or a private one. Veterans can receive military funeral honors at no cost. They are also usually eligible for free memorial items including headstones/markers, burial flag, Presidential Memorial Certificate, and death benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs.

11/14/2025

Martha Jane Shepard Rice, 87, of Palatka, passed from this life on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at Halifax Health Hospice of Volusia / Flagler in Port Orange following an extended illness. Born in Cochran, Georgia, Martha resided in Palatka since 1945. She was a 1956 graduate of Palatka Senior High School. Martha had worked at the City Drug Store in downtown Palatka for over 25 years. She had also been active in the women’s auxiliary of the Putnam County Shrine Club and years ago had been a member of Lemon Heights Baptist Church. In years past, Martha enjoyed water skiing and in later years, she loved dancing, traveling and going to casinos. She also enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, David N. Rice, her parents, R.Q. “Shep” and Helen Shepard and a brother, David Shepard.

Martha is survived by her children, Tracy Morgan (Gene) of Daytona Beach Shores, Barry Mast (Vicki) of Palatka, Kristi Nettles (Steve) of East Palatka and Blair Mast (Joni) of St. Augustine, a brother, Daniel Shepard (Charlene) of Palatka, a sister-in-law, Debra Shepard of Palatka, 9 grandchildren, Kelli Kaye Hilligus (Bruce), Kasi Morgan, Griffin Mast (Sarah), Alexis Lewis (Dale), Paul Mast, Josh Nettles (Emma), Jordan Nettles Tilton (Jordan), Kaitlyn Lebel (Stephen) and Quinton Mast (fiancé Danielle Lauzon) and 9 great-grandchildren, Ryan Hilligas, Taigen Lebel, Tripp Lebel, Annabelle Tilton, Lily Tilton, Ellory Tilton, Orion Mast, Garrett Mast, Dalton Lewis and expecting Grayson Mast soon.

Services celebrating Martha’s life will be at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at Johnson-Overturf Chapel in Palatka with Pastor Terry Wright officiating. Burial will follow at Palatka Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 5-7 P.M. at Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.

Flowers are gratefully accepted or memorial donations may be sent to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Dr., Tampa, FL 33607.

Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at Martha’s Book of Memories page at www.j-ofunerals.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.

11/14/2025

Paying tribute to our community’s devoted veterans is a privilege we hold dear. We will work tirelessly to ensure that your veteran receives the benefits and honors they deserve. Visit our website to learn how we can assist you: https://www.j-ofunerals.com/our-services/veteran-funeral-services

11/12/2025

Ronald Keith Hawkins
December 22, 1960 – November 10, 2025
Ronald “Keith” Hawkins, 64, of Perry, Florida, passed away unexpectedly at home on November 10, 2025. Keith was born on December 22, 1960, in Port Saint Joe, Florida, to Walter Lewis and Betty Liner Hawkins and moved to East Palatka when he was 2 years old.
He received his machinist certificate from Daytona Beach Community College in 1981 and went on to work at Georgia Pacific for 30 years in Palatka, FL, Brunswick, GA and then retiring in Perry, FL. He took great pride in his work and was recognized for his dedication and expertise. Keith was devoted to his faith and his family and is part of one of the founding families of Christ Independent Methodist Church. Keith loved spending time outdoors, especially on his tractor, playing golf with his brother, nephews and friends, playing family card games, hunting with his father-in-law, riding in the woods and air boating with friends. Family was so important to him. A lifelong Gator fan, he proudly cheered on the orange and blue every season, even though it was getting tough this season. His most important achievement was his daughter Megan. He was so proud of her, her husband and that he was able to spend time with his two grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Poppie”. He loved them so.
He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years Tresa Stewart Hawkins, Perry, FL, daughter, Megan Michele Raymond, and son-in-law, Mark Stanley Raymond; grandchildren, Thomas Stanley Raymond and Julia Elizabeth Raymond of Sandy Springs, GA, brother, Walter Lewis Hawkins Jr. and sister-in-law, Janel Powell Hawkins of Ocala, FL, father-in-law, Carl Lamar Stewart of Palatka, Sister in law Robley S Davis (Donald), Sister in law Julie S Reed (George) and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who meant so much to him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Lewis and Betty Liner Hawkins of East Palatka and his mother-in-law, Julia Rankin Stewart of Palatka.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Independent Methodist Church in Palatka on Saturday, November 15, 2025, with Rev. Michael Hudson officiating. The family will receive visitors beginning at 10:00 a.m., prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Rodeheaver Boys Ranch or Christ Independent Methodist Church in Keith’s memory.
Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at Keith’s Book of Memories page at www.j-ofunerals.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.

11/12/2025

Bobby Stanley McNaughton, 79 of Crescent City, FL, went to be with the Lord on October 30, 2025, at his home in Crescent City, FL.

Bobby was born on January 6, 1946, to Dora Foster McNaughton and Grover McNaughton in Greenville, AL

He graduated from Greenville High School in 1965, and later moved to Florida in 1969, where he was instrumental in building the chip mill in Palatka, while he was employed by Lewis Wadsworth.

Over time he owned a successful welding business, "McNaughton Welding", where many businesses in the surrounding communities looked to him to build and repair equipment. He was an expert in metal fabrication. He also grew tree fern and pittosporum, and was a member of the Central Florida Fern Co-Op.

He met Peggy Aaron McNaughton on August 21, 1981, and they spent 44 plus years making memories, because Bobby believed in working hard and playing just as hard!

They enjoyed traveling in their motor home to the Smokey Mountains, the beach, and NASCAR races in several states....and "wherever else looked interesting on the map".

He was a grill master and loved spending time around a fire, grilling and listening to Gold Rush.

Bobby has two sons Brad Stanton McNaughton (55) and Bobby Chad McNaughton (53).

Bobby loved attending all his grandchildren's, niece's and nephew's activities, to include sports, Proms, and Recitals. Whatever event was going on, he was there.

Bobby was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Crescent City, FL where he served as an usher. He enjoyed working on various projects, including repairing the beautiful historic bell displayed out front.

One thing many don't know about Bobby was his heart for animals. He went from 57 speeding tickets in his younger years in Alabama (would have been more if they could have caught him), to rescuing animals in need, in his older years.

Bobby loved life, Jesus, and talking (a lot...he was the best storyteller and loved making people laugh).

Survived by wife Peggy, son Brad (Dee), son Bobby "Chad" (Tera); grandchildren McKenzie (Dustyn) Sanchez, Brittany (Ricky) O’Neal, Browning "Carson" McNaughton, and great granddaughter Harper McNaughton.

Bonus grandchildren include Amber (Jacob) McCaffrey, Avery and Hunter Wallace.

Bonus great grandchildren include Tristan, Tanner, Tucker McCaffrey, Kendra, Ryan and Little Ricky O’Neal.

Brothers in law, Donnie (Brenda) Aaron, Mike Aaron.

Nephews Paul Aaron, Joe (Libby) Aaron; Niece Amanda (Sam) Carter.

Great Nephews Aiden and Ethan Carter.

Great Nieces Lilly Carter, Nina and Josey Aaron.

Aunts Mollie Shuford, Rosie Rupert and Linda Hayes.

Cousins Edna Clements, Anna and Frank Johnson, Danny, Royce and Landen Rupert, as well as extended family.

Preceded in death by his parents Grover and Dora, his in laws Joe and Connie Aaron,

uncles Danny Rupert and Ray Shuford; brother-in-law, Joey Aaron (Dana); nephews, Sammy and Donny Wiggs.

The family would like to thank Community Hospice and Palliative Care. There aren't enough words to convey the level of care and true compassion given by Dr. Bobby Lafferty, Heather, Brittany, Beverly, Shani, Kristi, Sam, Stacey, and last, but certainly not least Chaplain "Jakie" Carmicle.

In lieu of flowers, if you wish, donations in Bobby's memory can be sent to Community Hospice and Palliative Care 5111 Crill Ave Palatka, FL 32177 OR S.A.F.E. Pet Rescue Inc. P.O. Box 840215, St. Augustine, FL 32080 (Hollister Location)

Bobby fought a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s and Parkinsonism called Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP).

The family would like to say "thank you" to all who prayed, visited, called and texted, both before and after the Lord called Bobby home.

The outpouring of love shown through cards, flowers and food was heartfelt.

A celebration to honor the life of Bobby Stanley McNaughton will be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, from 4-7pm, at Legacy at Oak Meadows, 590 Bennett Rd., Pierson, FL 32180.

Hors d'oeuvres and refreshments will be provided. At the family's request, they ask instead of bringing food, to "just bring yourselves", ready to honor Bobby and share stories. This is to be a casual and enjoyable gathering.

4pm-4:30 will be a time of remembering, song and prayer.

4:30-7pm is fellowship and Hors d'oeuvres.

11/12/2025

“Goodbye may seem forever. Farewell is like the end, but in my heart is the memory and there you will always be.” - Disney's The Fox and the Hound

11/11/2025

Veterans Day is a time to give thanks for the strength, service, and memory of those who stood in the protection of others. We honor them today and always.

11/11/2025

James “Walt” Bridges, 84, of San Mateo, passed away from this life on Sunday, November 9, 2025 at HCA Florida Punam Hospital. Born in Live oak, Florida, James was a longtime resident of Putnam County since 1961, previously having lived in Clay County. He served in the U.S. Army and then continued his career path working as a truck driver and also owned and operated several car wash businesses. Aside from working, James really enjoyed spending his time with family and his dogs.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Lawanda C. Bridges, his parents, Joseph and Ida Bridges, daughter, Constance Elaine Bridges Sweat, son, James Walter Bridges, Jr. and son-in-law, Jerry Pharr and siblings, Joe Bridges, Lynn Bradburry and Dorothy Bridges.
James is survived by children, John Wesley Bridges (Miki) of Bear, Delaware, Joseph Roscoe Bridges (Tammy) of Satsuma, Julian “Ben” Ferra Bridges (Michelle) of East Palatka, and Brenda Bridges of Palatka, Florida, sisters, Veronica Krantz of Palatka and Patricia Scranton of Immokalee, Florida. Including as well, fifteen grandchildren; Nadine Bridges, John Robert Bridges, Starr Sykes, Selena Bridges, Teri Sweat Sadler (Rick), Regina Sweat, Brandy Barger (Ryan), Ashley Sweat, Kevin Sweat (Ivy), Chelsey Morgan (Justin), Jeremy Bridges (Amanda), Justin Bridges (Adah), Amber Pietro (James), James W. Bridges III (Emma) and Jennifer Blackwelder (Keith) and 27 great-grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 P.M. Friday, November 14, 2025 at Johnson-Overturf Chapel in Palatka with John Bridges officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday, at 1:00 P.M. till time of service at Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.
Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at James’ Book of Memories page at www.j-ofunerals.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.

11/10/2025

Jane Marie Nahabedian-Bush, 58, of Crescent City, Florida, passed away unexpectedly on November 5, 2025, at HCA Florida Putnam Hospital.
Jane was born in Maryland and later graduated in Newport, Rhode Island, where she studied cosmetology. During her youth, she enjoyed competitive rollerblading, developing the determination and spirit that would guide her throughout her life. She went on to become a successful business owner, operating a pizza restaurant in Warwick, Rhode Island, for many years. After relocating to Crescent City, Florida, she opened another restaurant before beginning her career with Winn-Dixie, where she worked faithfully for the past 14 years.
Jane met her husband, Daniel Bush, in a truly memorable way — while he was cutting down a fallen tree in her backyard. Their friendship quickly grew into love, and the two were married on October 13, 2018. Together, they shared a beautiful life filled with laughter, love, and countless memories.
Jane will be remembered for her caring nature, strong work ethic, and devotion to her family. She especially loved fishing with her husband, spending time with her grandchildren, and caring for her beloved animals. Her warmth, humor, and generous spirit made everyone around her feel valued and loved.
She is survived by her husband, Daniel Bush; stepsons, Todd Bush (Charlene) and Tyler Bush (Destiny); and grandchildren, Preston Smith, Grace Smith, Paisley Bush, Bentley Bush, and Conner Bush.
Jane’s legacy of love, kindness, and dedication will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
A Celebration of Jane’s life will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 12:00 PM. at Johnson-Overturf Chapel in Palatka, with Pastor Robert Bush officiating.
Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at Jane’s Book of Memories page at www.j-ofunerals.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.

Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home

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