Seven Oaks Funeral Home

03/16/2026

Dianne Tidwell Goodrum

Dianne Tidwell Goodrum, a bright light in the lives of all who knew her, passed away on March 15, 2026, at the age of 68. Born on December 10, 1957, in Covington, TN, Dianne was not just a beloved spouse, mother, grandmother, and friend but also a fierce survivor who overcame breast cancer with her trademark strength and humor.

Dianne dedicated her working years to the food service industry as a waitress, a job she cherished until her retirement in 2006. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and was always ready with a joke and a friendly smile. Dianne loved spending time outdoors-whether it was casting a line while fishing or simply enjoying the fresh air-and her greatest joy was sharing those moments with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her loving husband Jeff Goodrum, her son David Keith Tidwell, and her cherished grandchildren: Cynthia Dawn Tidwell, Caleb Jackson Stegall, and Deeanna Stegall. Dianne also leaves behind great-grandchildren Lucas, Madison, and Jade, as well as her dear brother Johnny Micgael Tidwell.

She is now reunited in peace with her parents who predeceased her, Malcolm Tidwell and Ann Fullerton; siblings : Margaret Tidwell, Robert Tidwell, Ricky Tidwell, and Betty Tidwell. Dianne was also a proud aunt to a host of nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly.

To celebrate Dianne's life, the family will hold a funeral service at Seven Oaks Funeral Home on Friday, March 20, 2026, at 11:00 AM. They will receive friends one hour prior. Afterward, she will be laid to rest in Hornsby, TN, where her spirit will continue to watch over all those who loved her. Dianne's legacy is one of love, laughter, and strength that will forever be etched in our hearts.

View Dianne Tidwell Goodrum's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/16/2026

03/15/2026

Zandra Morris Walker

Zandra Morris Walker, 70, of Water Valley, passed away unexpectedly at her home on March 14, 2026.

She was born July 18, 1955, to Lina D. Morris and C.A. "Dude" Morris at Dr. George Brown's hospital on Panola Street in Water Valley. She grew up in a lively household as the youngest of six children and remained a lifelong resident of Water Valley, never losing her deep affection for the town and its people.

She graduated from Water Valley High School in 1973 and later attended Northwest Junior College, where she served as a cheerleader.

Zandra was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Water Valley. She sang in the choir and served in many capacities through the years. She often joked that she didn't have much of a singing voice, but those who stood beside her in the choir would tell you she certainly did.

Zandra was also well known through her work with the Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, where she served as manager for many years. For countless visitors and residents alike, she was the welcoming voice on the phone and the friendly face behind the Chamber desk, always ready to help people find the right place, the right person, or the right answer. Anyone who ever walked into the Chamber office also remembers Zandra's smile which could brighten a room.

Zandra and her husband, Dr. Joe W. Walker, were honored as Grand Marshals of the Water Valley Christmas Parade in 2005, a recognition that reflected their long involvement in the life of the town.

Her love of flowers and gardening was well known throughout town. Zandra could often be spotted downtown tending one of the Garden Club planters or working among the flowers in Railroad Park. She was a longtime member of the Water Valley Town & Country Garden Club, where she served as past president and most recently as vice president, and she was the recipient of the Luella Fair Community Achievement Award in recognition of her dedication to beautifying the community. She knew more about flowers and plants than almost anyone and was always happy to share what she knew. She also had a knack for knowing exactly where around town the right greenery or blooming flowers might be found, and just as importantly, who was growing them and wouldn't mind sharing.

Zandra was a gifted floral designer and created beautiful arrangements for many parties, engagements, and weddings over the years. It was never just the flowers, but the care and love she brought to each occasion that people remembered. Wherever Zandra went, someone was likely to stop her and tell her how much the flowers she had done for a special event had meant to them.

Zandra was deeply involved in the lives of her children while they were growing up and rarely missed school or sports activities.

She was also a life member of the Junior Auxiliary of Water Valley and gave her time generously to the organizations and people who make up the life of the town.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Joe W. Walker; her parents, Lina and Dude Morris; her sister, Brenda Smith; and her son, Woody Walker.

She is survived by her children, John W. Walker of Oxford, Mississippi; Justin Ward Walker of Rutland, Vermont; Mary Ann Griffin (Piet) of Greenville, Mississippi; and Joe Walker (Jacqueline) of Rutland, Vermont. She is also survived by her sisters, Betty Hart and Peggy Taylor of Water Valley; her brothers, Jerry Morris of Water Valley and Ron Morris of Holly Lake, Texas; six grandchildren, Anna Marie Green, Addison Walker, Thomas Griffin, Jessica Griffin Hawkins, Jacob Walker, and Sam Walker; six great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Zandra's life was deeply rooted in Water Valley. She loved her church, her flowers, and the people who made up the town she called home.

A funeral service honoring Zandra's life will be held Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Water Valley. The family will receive friends two hours prior to the service.

Those who knew Zandra will remember her kindness, her generosity, and that unmistakable laugh. It was the kind of laugh you could hear before you even saw her, and it is a sound many people in Water Valley will always remember.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Water Valley or to the Water Valley Town & Country Garden Club.

Seven Oaks Funeral Home is honored to work with Zandra's family during this difficult time. We ask that you keep her family in your thoughts and prayers.

View Zandra Morris Walker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/13/2026

Animals are cute and cuddly, but did you know that they can also help you grieve? Check out this article to learn how animals can support you when you're grieving.

Animals are great at providing comfort during difficult times. Click here to learn how animals can help you grieve!

03/12/2026

Cremation is a popular choice for final disposition, but did you know it is still possible to have a service to honor your loved one?

You can hold a service to honor and commemorate their life before or after the cremation process occurs with a traditional funeral service or a simple memorial.

For more information about the importance of a ceremony and how to celebrate the life of your loved one with cremation, visit www.funeralbasics.org/cremation-importance-ceremony.

03/10/2026

Cynthia Dawn New

Cynthia "Cindi" Dawn New, a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend, passed away on March 8, 2026, at the age of 52. Born on July 19, 1973, in Bruce, Mississippi, Cindi touched the lives of all who knew her with her loving spirit and kindhearted nature.

She excelled in her school years, playing softball and showcasing her musical talent as a clarinetist in the school band. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to Northwest Community College, where she earned an Associate's Degree, forging a path that would span decades in the food service management industry. It was at Ramada Inn, where she devoted herself to her work, that she met the love of her life, Darrell Quarles. This serendipitous meeting blossomed into a deep and lasting relationship that became the foundation of her joyful family life.

Cindi's passion extended far beyond her professional endeavors; she was known for her vibrant love of singing, her unwavering dedication to spending quality time with her family, and her genuine commitment to helping others. Saturdays spent with her family became treasured memories filled with laughter and love.

She is survived by her loving parents, William "Bo" Hughes and Wanda "Sue" Hughes; her devoted spouse, Darrell Quarles; her sister, Sharon (Mark) Person; her daughters, Melissa (Michael) Smith and Isabella Quarles; her cherished grandchildren, Breeze Hughes and Toby Clark; her bonus son, Xavier Long; her dear best friend, Cristy Long; bonus grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

Cindi was a woman of warmth, humor, and compassion, and her legacy will live on in the lives she touched.

The family will celebrate Cindi's life during a memorial service that will be held at Seven Oaks Funeral Home on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Prior to the service, a visitation will take place from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the same location.

In this time of sorrow, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Cindi to join them in honoring her life and the joy she brought to all. May we carry her spirit with us as a testament to her enduring love and kindness.

View Cynthia Dawn New's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/09/2026

Bonnie Bernice Page

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bonnie Bernice Page, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Born on December 21, 1980, to Lela H. and Zolia Oliver, Jr., Bonnie brought joy and warmth into the lives of those around her. She lived her life fully and fiercely until she departed from us on March 7, 2026, at the age of 45.

Bonnie was known for her vibrant spirit and dedication to her work as a store clerk and manager in the local convenience stores.. Her cheerful smile and caring nature made her a cherished presence in her community and to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. She made every interaction feel special, always taking the time to connect with customers and coworkers alike.

Family meant the world to Bonnie and her memory will live on through the love she shared with them. Her favorite color was purple. She loved listening to the radio and singing along. Bonnie fully enjoyed the times she spent fishing and hunting with her family and friends. Always kind and generous, Bonnie made a lasting impact on her community.

Bonnie leaves behind her loving husband of 24 years, David Page, and their three wonderful children, Tyler (Alexis), Kayla, and Isabelle, all of Water Valley. She is also survived by her grandson, Tyler Page, Jr.; a brother, Jimmy (Jessica) Gladwell; a sister, Kaye Allen; and a host of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Bonnie was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Brooklyn Page; and her brothers, Gary and Eddie.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at North Main Methodist Church, starting at 1:00 PM, where friends and family are invited to gather and share their fondest memories of Bonnie. We encourage all who knew her to join in remembering her gentle soul, her laughter, and the love she gave so freely.

Seven Oaks Funeral Home is honored to work with Bonnie's family during this time. We ask during this time of mourning that you keep David and the rest of the family in your thoughts and prayers.

View Bonnie Bernice Page's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/09/2026

Bonnie Bernice Page

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bonnie Bernice Page, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Born on December 21, 1980, to Lela H. and Zolia Oliver, Jr., Bonnie brought joy and warmth into the lives of those around her. She lived her life fully and fiercely until she departed from us on March 7, 2026, at the age of 45.

Bonnie was known for her vibrant spirit and dedication to her work as a store clerk and manager in the local convenience stores.. Her cheerful smile and caring nature made her a cherished presence in her community and to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. She made every interaction feel special, always taking the time to connect with customers and coworkers alike.

Family meant the world to Bonnie and her memory will live on through the love she shared with them. Her favorite color was purple. She loved listening to the radio and singing along. Bonnie fully enjoyed the times she spent fishing and hunting with her family and friends. Kind and generous, Bonnie made a lasting impact on her community.

Bonnie leaves behind her loving husband of 24 years, David Page, and their three wonderful children, Tyler (Alexis), Kayla, and Isabelle, all of Water Valley. She is also survived by her grandson, Tyler Page, Jr.; a brother, Jimmy (Jessica) Gladwell; a sister, Kaye Allen; and a host of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Bonnie was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Brooklyn Page; and her brothers, Gary and Eddie.

A memorial service will be held at a later time, where friends and family are invited to gather and share their fondest memories of Bonnie. Details of the service will be announced soon, and we encourage all who knew her to join in remembering her gentle soul, her laughter, and the love she gave so freely.

Seven Oaks Funeral Home is honored to work with Bonnie's family during this time. We ask during this time of mourning that you keep David and the rest of the family in your thoughts and prayers.

View Bonnie Bernice Page's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/07/2026

It's that time again! Don't forget to set your clocks forward tonight.

03/06/2026

Writing a eulogy for a loved one who has died can be a challenging task, especially when you're also processing your grief. AI can help make the writing process easier! Click below to learn how to write a personalized eulogy with AI.

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03/02/2026

William Thomas Gafford

William Thomas (Bill) Gafford, age 81, was born on January 9, 1945 in Water Valley, Mississippi to Irma Kate Trusty Gafford and George Louis Gafford. Bill, the youngest of three children, attended Water Valley schools and enjoyed playing football and running hurdles in track and field for the Water Valley Blue Devils. He graduated Salutatorian of the class of 1963.

Bill and Carol Haley, born six months prior to Bill in the same hospital room, began dating in high school when Carol wrote for the school newspaper and Bill was the photographer. Scouting was an important part of his life, and he earned the Eagle Scout Award. The scouting motto of "Be Prepared" served as a guiding principle in his life.

Bill attended the University of Mississippi, earning a bachelor's degree, majoring in Mathematics and Sociology. Bill and Carol were married at the Water Valley Methodist Church on June 11, 1967.

His first job with Standard Oil/Amoco took him to New Orleans where he began a 35-year career as a Geophysicist in the Oil and Gas Industry, specializing in deep water oil exploration in the Gulf of Mexico. In 1989, Bill moved to Houston, Texas as part of the BP/Amoco merger and embraced life as a Texan. Professionally, Bill was active in the Geophysical Society serving as President of the New Orleans Chapter and later the Houston Chapter.

Their two daughters, Angela and Amy, were born in New Orleans. The family flourished in the unique and diverse culture of the city and Bill developed a deep appreciation of Jazz music. During Mardi Gras, you could find Bill's alter ego atop a ladder along Lee Circle or St. Charles catching beads. Family vacations always included educational opportunities first, while hiking and learning about National Memorials in Natchez or Washington D.C. Angela inherited her father's sense of direction, his attention to detail, a love of photography, appreciation of genealogy, sharp wit and deep loyalty and commitment to justice. She does not carry on his love of math, choosing words over numbers at every turn. Captivated by her Dad's colored pencils for map work at his office, Amy carries her dad's pension for art and handicraft and a deep love of the earth and its creatures, especially birds. She also saves just about anything she can, "just in case".

A strong man of faith, Bill supported his church through leadership and volunteering during his life. Serving as chair and committee member of the Trustees, Finance Committee and Financial Campaigns, and Staff Parish Relations, Bill's ability to calmly listen to a variety of differing views and gently lead people was valued at First UMC New Orleans, Gretna UMC, Cypress UMC and most recently as he supported the new church start Mosaic United Methodist Church in the Cy-Fair area. One of his final memories was celebrating communion in the hospital with his associate pastor and a beloved church member, family by his side and seeing pictures of the land the church hoped to purchase.

Bill continued to serve others by working on Mission trips in Costa Rica and New Mexico. A longtime volunteer of the Angel House Stained Glass Ministry, many homes across the country display his handiwork. Following in the footsteps of his Uncle Aubrey, Bill created a workshop in the garage to build, create and craft woodworking. He was also accomplished in genealogy, gardening and birding.

While Bill may have retired from BP, he never actually stopped working. Bill consulted for short term oil and gas projects for several years. Most of his time and energy was spent as curator of the GeoScience Center in Houston, Texas, the first Museum of Geophysical artifacts. Bill fundraised, collected, inventoried items and led tours.

Carol and Bill became known as the LolliPops with the birth of his first granddaughter Willa Kate. Pop loved supporting the interests of his four grandchildren: sharing his knowledge of investing and example of volunteer service with Willa, Isabella's orchestra trips and rock collection, Evan's interest in piano, insects, rocks and exploring, and Evelyn's 4-H Llama husbandry and travel shows along with her love of photography. Bill always kept tabs on new parks to take the grandkids to on their visits to Houston. An engaged grandfather, Pop celebrated the unique interests of each grandchild making many trips to their homes in Indiana and Arizona.

Bill was a committed community advocate for the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District for over two decades. As a community member, he volunteered countless hours serving on important district wide committees charged with helping district leaders make important decisions. As a scientist/geophysicist, he took every opportunity to learn as much as he could, he asked critical probing questions, considered the data, and was a positive and respected community collaborator. He served on multiple Bond Study Committees and was currently serving on the CFISD Long Range Planning Committee. Bill was a member of the Community Leadership Committee and Leadership CFISD. He was a Super Senior and regularly attended Community Connect meetings to stay informed and engaged with the district. According to district leaders who worked with him, he was one of a kind and his unwavering commitment and support of the school district will be greatly missed.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 59 years Carol, daughters Rev. Angela Gafford Asmus (Joel Asmus) of Fishers, Indiana and Rev. Amy Barron-Gafford (Greg) of Tucson, Arizona, grandchildren Willa and Evan Barron-Gafford, Isabella and Evelyn Asmus, sister Ann McCullar, brother George (Happy) Gafford, sister-in-law Maybelle (Earl) Rutherford and brother-in-law Sammy (Becky) Haley along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, neighbors and friends. The family thanks the many friends and family who helped care for Bill during his recent illness.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the charity of your choice or to the following organizations which Bill loved and supported:

The Building Fund for Mosaic United Methodist Church.

Building Community

16818 N Eldridge Parkway,

Tomball, TX 77377

William and Carol Gafford School Counseling Endowment.

University of Mississippi Foundation,

406 University Avenue,

Oxford, MS 38655

The Houston GeoScience Center c/o GSH Geophysical Society of Houston

1790 NW Sam Houston Pkwy North

Houston, TX 77043 Note: Bill Gafford Memorial

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, March 7th, 2026 at 2:00 PM at First Methodist Church 603 N. Main Street, Water Valley, MS 38965 with the Rev. Angela Gafford Asmus officiating.

Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM

Burial at Oak Hill Cemetery to follow service.

A Memorial Service will be held in Houston, Texas at a later date.

View William Thomas Gafford's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.