DOROTHY “QUINCY” BUTLER CORDELL
Dorothy “Quincyˮ Butler Cordell, 72, of Auburn passed away at East Alabama Medical Center on Feb. 14, 2025.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20, at St. Michaelʼs Catholic Church in Auburn, with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Memorial Park in Auburn.
Dorothy was born in Quincy, Florida, on March, 24, 1952, to Louis and Hanzel (Edwards) Butler. She graduated from James A. Shanks High School in 1970 and earned a bachelorʼs degree in accounting from Auburn University in 1974.
On April 6, 1974, Dorothy was united in marriage to William “Billˮ Cordell II in Quincy. They made their home in multiple places over the years including Pintlala, Dothan, Albany, Georgia, and finally settling in Auburn. Dorothy worked as an accountant for Auburn University in its Contracts and Grants Department.
Always aspiring to be an interior designer, she served as chapter advisor and board member for her beloved Gamma Phi Beta sorority. A point of pride for her was overseeing their new chapter dorm rooms at Auburn University. Dorothy loved her family, enjoyed playing hostess at holiday gatherings, was an avid Tom Selleck fan, enjoyed traveling to the Blue Ridge Mountains, being an HGTV oficiando and watching Auburn Tigers football.
Dorothy is survived by her children, William (Kate) Cordell III of Oakton, Virginia, and Daniel (Mary Eileen) Cordell and Elizabeth Cordell, both of Auburn; grandchildren, William, Quinn Maggie and Daniel; sisters-in-law, Kathy (Steve) Thornton of Charlottesville, Virginia, Judy (Eddy) Paul of Alabaster and Jan Cordell of Montgomery; brothers-in-law, Robert (Karen) Cordell of Pintlala and John (Ann) Cordell of Montgomery; and several nieces and a nephew. She was preceeded in death by her husband and parents.
Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
The family is accepting flowers but encourages you to make a donation in Dorothyʼs name to the Parkinsonʼs Foundation.
RALPH “ANDY” DUNAHOO
Ralph “Andy” Dunahoo, 68, passed away at East Alabama Medical Center on Feb. 14, 2025.
Andy was born in Cuthbert, Georgia, on Oct. 25, 1956, to Ralph and Miriam Dunahoo.
Andy was known for his love of hunting and fishing and his love for the outdoors. He also had a green thumb and grew awesome tomatoes. He passed his love for the outdoors on to his daughters.
Andy had an honorable discharge from the Army. Andy received medical degrees. He was an phlebotomist and a patient care assistant. He took care of his parents until their passing. Andy had a heart of gold and loved everyone from his fishing buddies to all of his family.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph W Dunahoo; mother, Miriam Canington; and sister, Deborah Lee.
Andy is survived by his loving and lifelong companion, Vicki Dunahoo; daughters, Heather (Jack) Brown, Audrey Dunahoo and Amy Dunahoo; and grandchildren, Shelbee, Bella, Paisley, Jacob, Ivy and Cam.
A memorial service was held Feb. 19 at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home, with Reverend Howard K. Johnston officiating.
JEFFREY K. VENABLE
With hearts full of love and profound sadness, we honor the life of Jeffrey Keith Venable, a man whose presence brought light, comfort and unwavering strength to all who knew him.
Born on Oct. 28, 1949, in Noblesville, Indiana, Jeff passed away peacefully on Feb. 13, 2025, with his loving wife by his side.
He was joyfully welcomed into heaven by his beloved parents, Jesse and Geraldine Venable, whose memory he carried close to his heart every day of his life.
Jeff is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Janet P. Venable, the love of his life and steadfast partner. Their journey together began at Homestead Air Force Base in Florida and blossomed into a marriage rooted in unwavering love, shared dreams and countless precious memories. Together, they raised three children who were the pride and joy of Jeff’s life: Christina Darcey (Steve), Jacqueline Stewart (Sean), and Jeffrey Venable (Aaron Amos).
Jeff’s heart was filled with immeasurable love for his granddaughters, Phoebe Rae Darcey, Hailey Rae Stewart, Hanna Lain Stewart and Ariel Kessler (Jon) and his great-granddaughter, Autumn Faith. He found joy in every moment spent with his grandchildren, offering them encouragement, laughter and boundless love. Jeff also shared a deep and lasting bond with his sister, Judy Howell (Richard), as well as his sister-in-law, Shirley O’Neill, and his beloved niece, Kelly O’Neill.
A proud veteran, Jeff served his country with honor as a Master Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force, including a tour in Vietnam. After his distinguished military career, he worked supervising quality control for NASA and held other engineering roles with the government.
Jeff’s life was a testament to integrity, selflessness and deep faith. His wisdom and gentle compassion made him a source of comfort and peace to anyone who sought his guidance. His listening ear and open heart were a gift to all who knew him. Though deeply missed, his spirit will live on forever in the hearts of his family and in the many lives he touched. His love, kindness and devotion will continue to inspire all.
A service was held at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home in Opelika on Feb. 17.
STACI HISE BELYEU
Staci Hise Belyeu, age 55, of Auburn finally won the battle and defeated cancer as she was welcomed into our loving Savior’s arms on Feb. 14, 2025.
Staci was a faithful Christian, an amazing wife, proud mother, loving sister and daughter. For the past 25-plus years, she was a successful accounting and tax preparer professional for many clients that valued her knowledge and guidance.
Born in Fairborn, Ohio, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base on Nov. 3, 1969, she and her family finally made their home in Opelika, where she attended Opelika High School. After graduating from Opelika High School in 1988, Staci graduated from Auburn University in 1994 and then married the one and only true love of her life on Aug. 5, 1995. From their early dating years and throughout their marriage, Staci made it known to everyone that Roger was her best friend and the absolute love of her life. Her dedication as an amazing wife only grew their connection and love with each other. With the arrival of their sons, she then dedicated her life to being the world’s best wife and mom. She loved her boys, watching and attending all of their sports and activities. She was so very proud of both of them and all of their accomplishments.
Staci was preceded in death by her mother, Rita Hise; mother-in-law, Nell Belyeu; maternal grandparents, Jessie and Ruth Williams; and paternal grandparents, Robert and Helen Hise.
Staci is survived by her husband of 29 years, Roger Belyeu; sons, Brock and Cade; parents, Jim and Barbara Hise; brother, Scott (Donna) Hise; sister, Tara (Blake) Chandler; many nieces, nephews and extended family and her big hunk of English Bulldog love, Remington “Remi.”
The funeral service was held at Providence Baptist Church on Feb. 17, with Rev. Dr. Rusty J Sowell and Ronald Sumner officiating. A graveside service followed at Garden Hills Cemetery in Opelika. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Auburn University Baseball program through the 108 Club and www.tigersunlimited.com
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude and appreciation for all the outpouring love and support that they have received from so many friends and family and an extra special thanks to all of the medical staff and team members at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston for the loving and exceptional care that Staci received while she was there.
DONGYEOUN LEE
Dongyeoun Lee, 48, passed away at his home in Auburn on Feb. 8, 2025. He was born in Asan, South Korea.
He was preceded in death by his father, YongDal Lee. He is survived by his wife, Inyoung Bang, and daughter, Jumi Lee.
A service was held Feb. 17 at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home.
CAROLYN WILLIAMS CHAVIS
Carolyn Williams Chavis, age 75, of Auburn passed away on Feb. 7.
She is survived by her son Chris Chavis (Kim), daughter Brandolyn Chavis, sister Shirley Havron (Bill), grandchildren, niece and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father, Julian Willard Williams, and mother, Bernice Hancock Williams.
Carolyn spent her entire career in office administration with Uniroyal/Michelin until her retirement from the Opelika plant. Her hobbies included reading books, watching movies and spending time with neighbors.
A celebration of life is being planned for a future date. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home of Opelika is assisting the family with arrangements.
RICHARD L. DUNCAN
Richard L. (Dick) (Butch) Duncan, 86, of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, passed away on Feb. 7, 2025.
He was born Nov. 22, 1938, in Colorado Springs, son of the late Emery Joseph Sr. and Bertha Mary (White) Duncan.
He was preceeded in death by his loving wife of 47 years, Beverly Ann Robbins Duncan; stepson, Robbie Wallace; daughter-in-law, Ramona Wallace; grandson, Keith McGogney; brothers, Emery Joseph Jr., Bertrum Ellsworth and John Lee Duncan; and sisters, Betty Jean (Duncan) Holiski and Mildred Florence (Duncan) Meyers.
He is survived by his daughter, Shelly Duncan; stepsons, Brian (Paula) Duncan and Michael Wallace; grandchildren, Maxwell Sanderford, Kimberly Sanderford, Heather (Dustin) Graben, Van (Melissa) Duncan, Amanda Miller and Richard B. Duncan; and great grandchildren, Allen McGogney, Taylor Graben, Maddison Graben and Amy Wendell.
Richard retired as regional manager of the Mine Safety and Health Administration. After retir-ing, he and Beverly moved from Pittsburgh to Jackson’s Gap, Alabama, where they raised their family in their dream home on Lake Martin. He enjoyed taking his kids and grandchildren out on the boat and spending time teaching them to ski and kneeboard. His greatest joy was spending time with his Grandchildren attending their games, dance recitals, and many other activities. He proudly served as a U.S. Marine and volunteered for the American Red Cross.
Richard will be deeply missed by those in his life. The family would like to express thanks to Richland Woods, Windber Hospice and Pastor Mike and Theresa Waldrop for their support.
Funeral services were held Feb. 19 at River of Life Worship Center in Alexander City, followed by burial at Tallapoosa County Memorial Gardens.
Frederick-Dean Funeral Home of Opelika assisted with arrangements.
RHONDA SUE PATTERSON JONES
Rhonda Sue Patterson Jones’ life was a masterpiece of love, kindness and generosity, and on Feb. 9 she embarked on her eternal journey, leaving behind a legacy that will forever inspire and uplift those who knew her.
Rhonda wore many hats and went by many names by those who loved her: Rhonda, Rhonda Sue, Aunt Runt, Wanda, Gigi and most of all she was called a friend by most. She had the gift of gab, never met a stranger, never met anyone she wouldn’t help. Her bubbly spirit infected anyone and everyone who would cross paths with her.
She had 57 years of memories with her surviving family: her father, Grover; brother, Tony; daughter, Jodi; fiancée, Josh; bonus daughters, Ricky and Skyler; nephews, Michael and (Marlee), Anthony and Caden; grandchildren, Maci, Payson, Finley and Yaya; great-niece, Landry and great nephew, Reece.
A celebration of life was held Feb. 18 at the First Free Will Baptist Church. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
LEONARD HALL
Leonard Hall, 82, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on Feb. 12, 2025, in the presence of his wife, Judith Hall. He was a loving husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, great grandfather and uncle and a great friend.
Leonard was born on Aug. 31, 1942, to the late Nathan and Addie Pearl Hall. He lived in Opelika and was a devoted child of God. He loved hunting, fishing, gardening, singing, watching football games and making everyone laugh. He loved everyone and was beloved by many. He attended church at Northside Baptist Church, where he sang Christian songs during the service. He loved his morning coffee, brotherhood breakfast his wife’s Filipino cooking. He loved showing up and making surprises for everyone during birthdays, holidays and even on normal days. He was the person who never forgets to check up on people. He worked in Uniroyal Tires for 25 years and Auburn University for 10 years, was a cook at a restaurant in South Carolina and served the military in the U.S. Army Reserves.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Billy and Preston Hall; sister-in-law, Alma Hall; and sister, Eleanor Jane Allen.
He is survived by his wife Judith; son, Dwayne; daughter, Eunice; siblings, Louie (Martha), Ray (Cherie), Martha and Pat (Harold); grandchildren, Jacob, Austin, Kaitlyn and Kara and six great grandchildren.
A funeral service was held Feb. 15 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home, with Rev. John Coker officiating.
GENINA C. “GINA” HARRIS
Genina C. “Gina” Harris passed away on Feb. 9, 2025, after a long battle with declining health. She courageously and bravely battled breast cancer three times.
She is survived by her husband of 31 years,Dion Harris; sons, Jeremy Matthews and Justin Harris (Carrie); grandchildren, RaSean, Adriauna and Ada; mother, Gloria White; sisters, Samantha Elliott (Mike) and Melinda Utley (James) ; nephews, Jamie and Trey; and nieces, Amanda and Amber.
Gina loved to travel, go camping in her RV and tend to her flowers and garden. She was an avid reader and loved listening to music. She was also a gifted knitter, loved crafts of all kinds and playing with her beloved cat, Tiger.
Gina was a beautiful, generous, kind and humble person. She will greatly be missed by her family.
A graveside service was held Feb. 14 at Garden Hills Cemetery. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
The family wishes to thank all those who have reached out and sent prayers and condolences to the family. The family will accept flowers.
JOSEPH “JOE” TERRY TOUCHTON
Joe Touchton, son of Mary Nell and William Quarterman Touchton, born Aug. 9, 1947, in Valdosta, Georgia, crossed the great divide on Feb. 4 at his home in western Lee County under the loving care of his wife, Gina, and his sweet daughter, Maggie
Joe was a man of the land. At an early age he, his dad and brothers worked the family farm on White Water Road just south of Valdosta. In 1970, after earning his undergraduate degree from the University of Georgia, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Joe served three years of active duty during the Vietnam War as a gunnery officer on ships patrolling the Northern Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean and Mediterranean seas. He continued to serve in the Naval Reserves until he was honorably discharged in 1987.
After his tour of duty, Joe came home to Georgia to earn a master’s degree at UGA and a Ph.D. at the University of Illinois before beginning his career as a soil scientist at the Ag Experiment Station in Griffin, Georgia. In 1980, he joined Auburn University’s Department of Agronomy and Soils, where he became nationally renowned for his cutting-edge research in sustainable agriculture and where he mentored hundreds of undergraduates and guided many a graduate student to successful careers in the world of agriculture.
In the late 1980s, Joe was named Department Head, a position he held for 24 years until his retirement in 2013. During his tenure at Auburn, Joe always treated his faculty and staff with a fair and steady hand and supported them in both words and actions. For example, one year the university gave administrators a pay raise but neglected to provide one for staff members. Infuriated, Joe refused to accept his raise until he was guaranteed that his staff would receive one, too. That’s the type of man he was.
After leaving his family farm, Joe always dreamed of owning a tract of land where he could raise cows, grow a garden and one day build a home. In 1985, that dream came true when he found the loveliest property this side of heaven, where he and Gina worked together to build their forever home. They also hosted many exuberant parties — “Party like a Touchton” was a common refrain among their circle of friends — including fish fries, pig roasts, crawfish boils and other celebrations of life and friendship.
Though Joe rarely expressed his love and appreciation in words, his affection for family, friends and community was evidenced in his actions: the piles of wood he chopped for the stove each winter; growing a cornucopia of vegetables in his huge garden which he shared with friends and with the local food bank; raising catfish in the pond beside their home for those famous fish fries; shucking oysters for friends during their annual beach trip; and building a long ramp from their deck in 1994 so Gina could wheel her ailing father down to the pond’s edge. Joe departed his home for the very last time using that same ramp, coming full circle.
Joe is survived by his wife, Gina; daughter, Maggie (Aaron); siblings Bill, Gary (Susan), Roger (Liz) and Kathy; many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins; and countless friends who loved him dearly and always will.
Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, consider donating to the Food Bank of East Alabama (355 Industry Drive, Auburn, AL 36832). And in honor of Joe, plant something you can eat and share with others this year.
