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Trahan Family Funeral Home, 60 Industrial Boulevard, Pensacola, FL (2026)

04/29/2026

Joseph Larry Lassiter
1948 - 2026

Joseph Larry Lassiter, 77, of Allentown, FL, passed away on April 21, 2026. He was a native of Milton, FL, born to Ernest Ray and Minnie Eva Lee Lassiter, and had lived in Santa Rosa County for his entire life, except for the time he was in the US Marines, during the Vietnam War.

Larry attended Milton High School until he went into the Marines.

Upon leaving the military, Larry worked in several jobs in the area, but was most well known as a long time employee of Bill Salter Sign Advertising.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers; four sisters; and his son, Joseph Larry Lassiter, Jr.

Larry is survived by his wife, Rachel Shelton Lassiter; his son, Michael Wayne Lassiter; his grandchildren, Savannah, Michael, Jr., Matthew, and Michaela; and two sisters, Joanne Cates and Linda Hauser.

Larry loved taking care of his homestead, especially working in the garden and on the lawn.

Funeral Arrangement are being handled by Trahan Family Funeral Home in Milton, FL.

The funeral will be a graveside service on May 5, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Strickland Cemetery with his son, Michael Wayne Lassiter, officiating.

04/25/2026

Scott Lathan
1968 - 2026

Scott E. Lathan Sr., of Milton, FL, passed away on April 23, 2026, surrounded by his wife, children, and several loved ones, following a courageous and brave battle against cancer.

Scott was born March 4, 1968, to Hillard "Sonny" and Sally Lathan, in Milton, FL. Scott loved welding and made a life career out of building and fabricating all sorts of things! Some of his favorite past times included hunting and fishing, and he loved being on a creek bank with family and friends! But his all-time favorite was loving on his grandbabies! Becoming a Papa was his proudest moment!

Scott was proceeded in death by his grandparents: Mr. and Mrs. Herrington and Mr. and Mrs. Lathan; brother, Stanley Lathan; and granddaughter, Makynna Keller; as well several aunts, uncles, and nephews.

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Leah Lathan; daughters, Tabitha (Fares) Al-Sowayan and Kymberly (Kent) Salzer; sons, Scotty (Marie) Lathan and Sean (Dallas) Lathan; parents, Sonny and Sally Lathan; grandchildren: Sarah, Josh, Jake, Brody, Calleigh, Aria, Triniti, Aamanee, Liam, and Ziyad; other bonus grandbabies; and beloved nieces and nephews and friends.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at Trahan Family Funeral Home of Milton, at 1:00 p.m. The family will receive friends beginning at noon.

04/25/2026

Margaretta Frances "Margo" Cook
1962 - 2026

Margaretta Frances “Margo” Cook, 63, of Selmer, TN, passed away on April 22, 2026, surrounded by her husband, sister, and brother-in-law. She endured a long health journey with courage and grace.

Margo was born on November 15, 1962, in San Antonio, TX. She was a seamstress who loved sewing beautiful draperies. She also enjoyed gardening, especially growing flowers.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Miles and Exie Parker; stepdad, Oscar VonAxelson; cousin, Billy Brown; aunt, Mary Vernie Parker; and uncles, Larence Parker and Oliver Parker.

Survivors include her husband, Steve Cook; daughter, Melanie Martin; stepdaughter, Kelly (Thomas) Turman; grandchildren: Britney, Alyssa, Star and Brantley; great-grandson, Darrell; mother, Gloria VonAxelson; sister, Becky (Mark) Flood; brother, Joseph (Belinda) VonAxelson; many aunts, uncles, cousins, other family members and friends; and her special furbaby, Rip.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 am until the funeral service begins at 12 noon all on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Pleasant Home Baptist Church in Holt, FL, with Rev. Brian Deida and Rev. Alton Nixon officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Home Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family to offset some of the healthcare expenses.

04/23/2026

Kathern Jane Driggers
1948 – 2026

Kathern Jane Driggers, 78, of Holt passed away on April 18, 2026. She was born on March 12, 1948 in Milton, Florida to Newman and Betty Andrews.

Kathern owned horses and loved horseback riding. She enjoyed life and spending time with her family and friends. She also enjoyed the beauty of flowers.

Survivors include her husband, Jim; son, Howard (Mary); stepdaughter, Jennifer (Lucas); sisters, Jill and Deanna (Ashley); brothers: Norman (Karen), Danny and Jimmie; stepbrother, Richard (Karen); sister-in-law, Debbie (Chris); brother-in-law, Greg (Ginny); grandsons, nieces, and nephews; a special lifetime friend and “sister”, Judy (Eustice); and many wonderful friends who were also her family.

04/21/2026

James Harris had a lot of names Jimmy, J. P., Daddy, Pawpaw and Great Pawpaw.

He grew up in Marianna, Florida where he was born May 25,1935. James married Peggy Allen on May 2nd, 1958, and then they had their son, William Charles aka, Bill and Billy (Rhonda) and their daughter, Mary Ann Lee (Gary); later a granddaughter, Nicole Peebles and three great grandchildren, Collin, Gypsy and Silas.

He was an ordained deacon and a wonderful example of a Christian man. James led the singing for many years in their church and also enjoyed singing in church alongside Peggy and other church members over the years. He was a wonderful man, loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was a wonderful mechanic at Monsanto where he worked until he retired. James was also a singer, full of wisdom and wit and always knew the right thing to say with just the right amount of words.

He would always calm you down when you were stressed by just saying “Let it roll off your back like a duck.” James would always say “Sonny boy ain't nothing finer” when he was talking about a good meal. Another one of his sayings was say “I think I will.”

James will be missed so very much and will be forever in our hearts no matter where we go. We know we will see him one day in Heaven where he is right now in God's arms.

From all of his family, we love you J.P., Daddy, Pawpaw and great Pawpaw.

A Traditional Funeral service will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Trahan Family Funeral Home. The family would like to invite guests to join them beginning at 12:30 p.m. for the visitation and the service will follow at 1:30 p.m. We will proceed in procession to his final resting place, Cottage Hill First Baptist Church Cemetery immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers please just know that we appreciate your time and love that you have spent with and shown to our family.

04/20/2026

Billy Eugene Simmons
1935 - 2026

Billy Eugene Simmons, 90, of Milton, Florida, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026. Born on December 25, 1935, in Caryville, Florida, Billy was the son of Eugene and Odell Simmons. He lived a full and meaningful life marked by faith, hard work, and a deep love for his family and community.

Billy was a lifelong Christian and a foundational member of Pine Terrace Church, where his faith remained a guiding force throughout his life. He proudly served in the United States Air Force and went on to build a career as a highly skilled welder, eventually retiring after years of dedicated work, including time at Cyanamid Chemical Plant. Known for his talent and strong work ethic, Billy took great pride in everything he did.

A proud member of the Lower Muskogee Creek Tribe, Billy carried a deep appreciation for heritage, nature, and tradition. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing, and he had a lifelong passion for gardening. Always eager to learn, he continually expanded his knowledge through classes and reading, and he found great joy in sharing the fruits of his garden with family, friends, and neighbors.

Billy was also an avid reader and a man of great wisdom, often offering guidance, kindness, and encouragement to those around him. He loved his neighbors well and was a steady, caring presence in his community. He was a proud member of the inaugural graduating class of Milton High School in 1954, where he also played center on the football team.

Billy is survived by his loving children: Pamela and Ricky Hinote, Kathy and Chuck Fullerton, Cindy and Chuck Buckinger, Janet and Mike Whitson; his sister-in-law, Judy Simmons; grandchildren: Justin Hinote, Holley Melton, Krystal Simmons, Misty Simmons, Ryan Fullerton, Chad Fullerton, Adam Buckinger, Jason Wallace, Whitney Smith, and numerous great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Martha Ann Simmons; his parents, Eugene and Odell Simmons; his brother, Eddie Simmons; and his son, Bill Simmons.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to his caregivers: Ms Cheryl, Ms Pam, Cathy, and a very special thank you to Roberta from Gentiva Hospice for the compassionate care and support.

The family wishes to express their appreciation to Lynn, for her dedicated care, compassion and warmth, which brought immense comfort to our dad over the past year; and to her loving dog, Bella, for her companionship and gentle presence, that brought immeasurable comfort, joy, and light to our dad, during his final months, easing our hearts and lifting our spirits when we needed it most.

Billy’s life was one of quiet strength, generosity, and unwavering faith. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy will live on through the many lives he touched.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at Pine Terrace Baptist Church from 11:00 am until the service begins at 12:00 noon. Burial will follow at Serenity Gardens Cemetery.

Honorary Pallbearers are Harry Hawthorne, Bobby Simmons, Nicky Walker and Joe Pool.

Pallbearers are Keith Gilley, Roy Nealy, Hugh Winkles and Neal Enfinger.

04/17/2026

Betty Joyce Parks Manning
1946 – 2026

Betty Joyce Parks Manning, 79, of the Allentown Community, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 16, 2026 with her family by her side.

Betty was born in Butler, GA on March 25, 1946 to Dewey and Agnes Parks. She spent most of her early years in Georgia. Later, she met and married Jerry Lee Manning of Pensacola, FL. They raised three children together and settled in Allentown.

Betty loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was always generous with smiles, hugs, and stories.

She was preceded in death by her parents; five siblings; her husband; and her son, Kenneth Shaun Manning.

Survivors include her daughter, Pualani Lewis (Brandon) of Berrydale; her son, Eugene Manning (Kim) of Allentown; her granddaughter, Callie Frizzell (Spencer) of Allentown; her grandson, Evan Manning (Alisha) of Jay; her seven great grandchildren; a sister-in-law; and numerous nieces and nephews.

While we are heartbroken by her passing, we are grateful she is free from pain and in the presence of the Lord.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 20, 2026 from 2:00 pm until 3:00 pm at Trahan Family Funeral Home, Milton Chapel. Burial will follow at Serenity Gardens Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the staff at Jay Hospital and Emerald Coast Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion.

04/17/2026

Melvin Cody
1943 - 2026

Melvin Cody, age 82, of Pace, Florida, passed away on April 12, 2026.
Melvin was born in Pensacola and raised in the Pace area, where he developed the strong work ethic, resilience, and character that would define his life. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, retiring as a Chief. Following his military service, he continued to serve others as a sheriff’s deputy in Santa Rosa County, dedicating many years to protecting and supporting his community before retiring to a well-earned and fulfilling life.
Melvin was known for his unique blend of humor and deep thoughtfulness. He had a goofy side that brought smiles to those around him, but he was also incredibly intentional—every word he spoke was carefully considered, reflecting his sharp mind and quiet wisdom. He was a man of great intelligence, kindness, and generosity, always ready to step in and help when he felt someone was in need.
In his retirement, Melvin found joy in the simple, meaningful things in life. He took pride in tending to his fish pond, maintaining his property and always keeping himself busy with projects around the house. He especially enjoyed woodworking, creating with his hands and leaving behind pieces that reflected his patience and skill.
Melvin often said he had lived a great life and had no regrets—a mindset that those who knew him will carry forward. He looked forward to the peace of being in the arms of Jesus and being reunited with his wives, whom he missed so dearly.
Above all, Melvin will be remembered for his steady presence, his thoughtful nature, and the love he showed through his actions. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the many lives he touched.
Melvin was preceded in death by his grandmother; grandfather; mother; father; his brother, David; his wives, Juanita and Judy; and his son, Michael Wayne Cody.
He is lovingly remembered by his children, Danny Cody (Alice) and Dennis Cody (Linda); his grandchildren: Dana Stinson, Destinee Cody, Brittany Cody, and Wyatt Cody; and his great-grandchildren: Connor, Adilyn, Emma, Houston, Hendrix, Avery, Jaxon and Hayden.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Funeral will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Faith Baptist Church, Milton, Florida. Visitation will begin at 12 noon and the funeral at 1:30 p.m. Burial to follow at Cora Baptist Church Cemetery.

04/17/2026

If you miss me from singing down here
and you can’t find me nowhere
Come on up to bright glory
I’ll be singing up there.

Catherine Rich Paige of Milton, Florida, departed this earthly life surrounded by her family on Good Friday, April 3, 2026.

She was born on September 28, 1944, to the late Alvin Rich and Rachel Parker Rich of Milton. She was the youngest of the 13 children born into their union.

As a youth, she gave her life to Christ at Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Church. She was the longest continuously-serving member. She sang in choirs and served on the usher’s board and as church clerk of the Board of Mothers & Deaconess. She also served in leadership positions, most recently as President.

She graduated with the T.R. Jackson High School Class of 1962 and went on to earn an associate’s degree at Washington Junior College in Pensacola.

She was a respiratory therapist at Santa Rosa Hospital and Baptist Health Care. She retired from Baptist in 2006.

Preceding her in death are her parents, Alvin and Rachel Rich; her sisters, Hattie Elizabeth Rich, Alvin Jo Rich Walker and Agnes Rich Dixon; two brothers, ages 15 and 16; and her other siblings who died at birth.

Family and friends will always cherish her memories, especially her daughter, Carmen.

The homegoing service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Church, Milton, with visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at the Magnolia Cemetery in East Milton.

04/14/2026

Ernest S. "Ernie" Nava, Jr.
1951 - 2026

Ernest S. “Ernie” Nava Jr. 74, of Milton, passed peacefully on April, 11, 2026. He was born on April, 26, 1951.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest Nava Sr. and Elzira Nava, and sons, Shawn Nava and David Robertson.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Annie Nava; son, Eric Nava; eight grandchildren: Ashley Robertson, Gabriel Jinright, Jaylee Jinright, Dubrea Nava, Madison Nava, Lilly Nava, Hayden Nava, Kynlee Nava; five great-grandchildren: Derrick Robertson, Harley Lord, Gabriel Lord, Leon Lord, and Milo Annalise Lord; brothers, David Nava (Toni) and Richard Nava (Paulette) and sisters, Cynthia Uliana (John) and Cathy Nava (Jeff); many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 11:30 am until the funeral service begins at 12:30 pm on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at Trahan Family Funeral Home, Milton Chapel.

Burial will follow at Ardfield Cemetery.

04/13/2026

John Wright Cook III
1947 - 2026

John Wright Cook III, 78, of Milton, passed away on April 4, 2026. He was born in Laurel, MS, on December 29,1947, to John and Ann Cook. His father was a Southern Baptist Minister moving between congregations in Mississippi, Georgia, and Pensacola.

John graduated from Tate High School in Pensacola, attended Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, GA, and then served two years in the United States Navy. After leaving the Navy, John met and married Nancy Rollins in Ochlocknee, GA, on April 21, 1972.

After their first child, Beth, was born they moved to the Pensacola area and had their next two children, Dennis and Melissa. Pace, FL, was their home for forty years before they finally moved to their dream life in the countryside.

John loved to fish, and his garden was always the envy of the neighborhood. John passed away on April 4, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by wife, Nancy; daughters, Beth Swope and Melissa Dixon; son, Dennis Cook; his sister, Judith Gidcumb; grandchildren: Olivia Cook, Ethan Cook, Bella Swope, Powell Swope, Gabriel Swope, Layton Dixon, and Amelia Dixon; and nieces and nephews.

There will be a graveside service held at Elizabeth Chapel Cemetery Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 11 am.

04/13/2026

Betty Jean Loyed
1937 - 2026

Betty Jean Loyed, lovingly known as “Mom,” “Mama,” and “Mamaw,” passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026, at the age of 88. She was born on December 23, 1937, in Donaldsonville, Georgia, to the late Howard and Eunice Brackin.

Betty was raised with strong values that shaped her into a woman of compassion, quiet strength, and unwavering love for her family and everyone around her.

On December 1, 1954, Betty married the love of her life, Andrew Jackson Loyed, known to all as Jack. Their marriage of nearly seven decades was a testament to commitment, partnership, and enduring love. Jack preceded her in death on February 18, 2024, and Betty longed to be reunited with him. Together, they built a life rooted in family, faith, and mutual devotion.

In addition to her husband and parents, Betty was preceded in death by her siblings: Kenneth Brackin, June Loyed, Janette Turner, and Clinton Brackin. She is survived by one sister, Inez Alldredge of Cottondale FL.

Betty was a devoted mother to her three children: Charles Loyed (Diane), Sherry Turner (Glen), and Leslie Curley (Tom). She was the heart of her family, always offering encouragement, wisdom, and unconditional love.

She was a proud grandmother to Candace Parker (Sam), Allison Beal (Stephen), Melissa Blackwell (Kris), Andrew Loyed (Lindsey), and Tina Broxterman (Daniel), and a cherished great-grandmother to twelve great-grandchildren, whose lives carry on her loving legacy.

Betty dedicated many years of faithful service working for the Santa Rosa County School District, where she was known for her reliability, kindness, and strong work ethic.

One of Betty’s greatest joys in life was gardening. She found peace and purpose tending to her flower beds, where her hardworking hands nurtured beauty from the soil. Her yard was a reflection of her spirit—carefully tended, full of color, and lovingly maintained. Just as she lovingly cultivated her flowers, Betty devoted herself to nurturing her family, helping each one grow with patience, care, and love.

A woman of deep faith, Betty was a devoted member of Pace Assembly of God, where she found great comfort, fellowship, and spiritual strength. Her faith guided her life and was evident in her kindness, patience, and the love she so freely shared with others.
Betty will be remembered as a loving wife, devoted mother, proud grandmother and great-grandmother, faithful servant of God, and a gentle soul whose presence brought peace and warmth to all who knew her. Though she will be deeply missed, her family takes comfort in knowing she is reunited with her beloved Jack and resting in eternal peace.

Family and friends are invited to attend her visitation at Pace Assembly of God, 3948 Highway 90, Pace, on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. also at the church. Graveside services will follow at Serenity Gardens in Milton, FL.

The pallbearers for the service will be Andrew Loyed, Stephen Beal, Kris Blackwell, Daniel Broxterman, David Dorado, Chad Brackin and Sam Parker. Her great-grandsons will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Flowers are welcome, as she greatly loved them, and those wishing to honor her memory may make a donation in her name to the Building Fund at Pace Assembly Ministries.

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