NELLENE CHADWICK WARD
Family and friends will miss the love, loyalty and fun of Nellene Chadwick Ward, of Salem, Alabama, who passed on Nov. 11, 2025. She recently celebrated her 90th birthday ready to live a much longer life.
Born during the midst of The Depression, her parents and siblings were bound by hard work and an abundance of love. Predeceased were parents, Julian and Ossie Ola Chadwick; siblings Byron Chadwick (Betty Jean), Mary Stillwell (William) and Martha Flournoy (Eugene); survived by sister Joyce Kenney (Gary).
A loyal wife and mother, she was married 49 years and predeceased by husband Guy Ward in 2001.
The experience of losing two children who preceded her death, Debra Ward in 1977 and son Wesley Ward in 2014, was a devastating experience where she strengthened her tranquility and serenity of her faith in God. Grandmother to Wesley’s children, Wesley Jr. (great-grandchild Luke), Christopher, Arin and Sarah.
Her surviving children are son, James Ward; daughter Teressa Jenkins (Clyde); and two grandsons, Jonathan and Taylor Jenkins. She remained loyal to family and friends during her extended life.
“Making a silk purse out of a pigs ear” exemplified her ability to have fun and enjoy life. She embraced the simple things in life and transformed those experiences into lifelong and priceless memories for everyone who knew her. To say she will be missed is an understatement as her love and fervor for life were filled with passion.
Visitation and funeral services were held at the 10th Street Church of Christ, Opelika on Monday, Nov. 17, at noon and 1 p.m., respectfully.
While the family appreciates the outpouring of calls and other communications, privacy is requested at the residence. Thank you and God Bless.
Robert D. Freeman Jr.
Robbie Freeman of Opelika passed away surrounded by his family on Nov. 5, 2025, at EAMC after a short illness. He was 63 years old.
Robbie was a machinist and worked at R&D Metal Fabrication, a family business, for almost 40 years. Robbie was loved by many and will be missed terribly, but we rejoice knowing he is with his Lord and Savior in heaven.
Robbie was preceded in death by his father, Robert D Freeman Sr. and his sister, Penny Harbison.
Survivors include his son Corey Freeman (Olivia); mother, Peggy Brown-Walden; sisters, Pam McCann (Dewayne), Christy Nolen; brother, Steven Nolen (Kelli); stepmother Charleen Freeman Thomas, and a host of nephews. Robbie also leaves behind his very special friend Marlene Highfill and his beloved dog, Cracker Jack.
The family will have a private service on a later date.
Bobbie Ruth Clifton Washington
Bobbie Ruth Clifton Washington, passed from this life to meet her Savior, Jesus Christ, on Nov. 9, 2025. She left a legacy of love that will carry on in her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Bobbie is preceded in death by her husband of 49-plus years Lavelle H. Washington Sr.; son Pat Washington; mother Ellone Clifton; father Bob Clifton; and brother Billy Clifton.
She is survived by her son Harold (Gaye Ann); daughters, Fran (Mike) and Gena (John); son Chris; grandchildren Wes (Tricia) Washington, Annslee (Matt) Hillyer, Sydnee Cleveland, Mason (Tori) Thrower, Patrick (Marley) Thrower, Molly (Jonathan) Kuhn, Lawton Vallely, Carter Henley and Carson Washington; great-grandchildren Lee, Bo, Willie and Joanie Washington; Lucy, Mary and Nelson Hillyer; Cate and Wynn Cleveland; Harper, Grayson and Ann Layton Thrower; Hallie and George Kuhn; and soon to arrive J.W. Thrower.
Bobbie was born on March 29, 1931, in Randolph County Alabama. She graduated from Randolph County High School and worked locally until she married the love of her life, Lavelle Washington. She and Lavelle moved to Auburn and built a life there. They founded Auburn Tire Service and worked hard to raise five children. They were actively involved in Farmville Baptist Church and Community Club. Family, church and friends were so important to her. She loved the simplicity of living life there until Lavelle passed away. She moved to their Lake Martin home for a season then returned to Auburn to live the rest of her appointed days. Bobbie, Mama, Grandmother and Miss Bobbie, as she was known by those who knew and loved her, will be so missed.
The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to all those who prayed for her, visited her and cared for our sweet Mother during her last days. A special thanks goes to Camellia Place, Bethany House, Compassus Hospice and especially to her precious caregivers, Lillie Freeman, Danna Page and Sherry Shaw.
Funeral services were held on Friday, Nov. 14 at 11 a.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. A graveside service followed at Memorial Park Cemetery in Auburn.
To honor Bobbie’s memory, the family requests that donations be made to Farmville Baptist Church, 3607 AL Highway 147N, Auburn, AL 36830.
John Plumb
John Alfred Plumb, 91, of Auburn, passed away on Nov. 8, 2025. John was born on Nov. 29, 1933, in Waynesboro, Virginia. He graduated from Waynesboro High School in 1953 and then attended Fishburn Military School in Waynesboro for one year before entering the United States Army in 1954. Following two years of military service, John earned a Bachelor of Science degree in general physical science from Bridgewater College (VA) in 1960 and a Master of Science degree from Southern Illinois University in 1963. In 1972, John earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in zoology (fisheries) from Auburn University.
From 1962 to 1969, John was employed by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service working at federal fish hatcheries in the Upper Midwest. In 1965, he revolutionized fish health management by being the first to coat fish food with antibiotics to treat diseased populations. In 1969, he was employed by the Auburn University Zoology Department as a research associate. In 1972, John was appointed assistant professor of Fisheries at Auburn University and retired as a professor in 1998. John’s primary professional interest was infectious microbial diseases of fish with an emphasis on freshwater fish species. His research emphasized viral and bacterial infections of freshwater fishes and how environmental conditions affect these diseases. During his time at Auburn, John worked closely with the commercial catfish industry and other aquaculture industries in Alabama as well as state conservation agencies throughout the Southeast. He was also involved with aquaculture on an international level, traveling to more than 20 countries as a consultant. During his professional career, John was elected president of the Fish Health Section of the American Fisheries Society and was a co-editor and founder of the Journal of Aquatic Animal Health. He authored the book “Health Maintenance and Principal Microbial Diseases of Cultured Fishes.”
Outside of academia, John was a gifted woodworker who crafted beautiful furniture and cabinetry. He was an avid gardener and devoted outdoorsman who inspired a passion for nature in those around him. John was active in his church, he enjoyed a good book and he loved his family.
John is preceded in death by his parents, William Howard Plumb and Lois Leticia (Coffee) Plumb; and his sisters, Margaret Alise Leslie and Sarah Ann Doggett.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Peggy (Margaret Louise Davis) Plumb of Auburn; a daughter, Renee Plumb Norman (Drew) of Montgomery; and a son, David William Plumb (Charlotte) of Foley, Alabama. His additional blessings include four granddaughters, Caroline Bentley Cook (Blaine), Mary Elizabeth Norman Booth (Andrew), Suzanne Rebecca Norman, Caitlin Nicole Plumb (Ben); and three great-grandchildren, Holden Thomas Cook, Finley Kay Cook and Hayes Margaret Booth, along with beloved nieces and nephews and their families.
John’s family would like to express its deepest gratitude to the precious people who helped care for him. Chavala Johnson, Evelyn Mills and the people of Compassus Hospice gave his family peace of mind when most needed.
If you wish to honor John, please consider contributing in his memory to one of these organizations:
– The Plumb House Museum, c/o Waynesboro Heritage Foundation, PO Box 517, Waynesboro, VA 22980
– Mercy Medical Ministry, 1702 Catherine Court, Suite 1A, Auburn, AL 36830
– Tunnel to Towers Foundation, PO Box 70719, Philadelphia, PA 19176 (www.T2T.org)
PATRICIA SISLER MAY
Patricia Sisler May, 83 of Opelika, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband Doug May; her parents Lieutenant Colonel O.O. and Myrtice Sisler; and her sister-in-law Retha May.
Pat is survived by her daughters, Michelle Bohlen and Beth Hudson; brother Mike Sisler (Regina); grandchildren Mallory Hudson, Jack Bohlen and Della Bohlen; brother-in-law Cody “Billy” May; nephews Bill May and Carl May; and nieces Emily Sisler and Tracie May Puckett. She also leaves behind many cousins and dear friends who brought her so much love and joy.
Pat was a teacher with Opelika City Schools for 31 years, prior to her retirement in 2002. She was a long-time member of Trinity Methodist Church in Opelika, and she especially enjoyed being part of the Life Builders Sunday School class. Pat was also an active member and leader in a number of professional and social organizations, including the Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority for educators, the Lee County chapter of the Alabama Education Retirees Association, the 20th Century Study Club and the Tulip Garden Club.
Funeral services were held Friday, Nov. 14, at Trinity Methodist Church.
The family is particularly grateful and appreciative for the kindness and care that Pat received from the wonderful doctors and staff at the Spencer Cancer Center and from all of the loving family and friends that supported her during these past few months.
If you would like to honor Pat, please consider donating to the Alpha Delta Kappa Scholarship Fund. Checks can be made payable to Alpha Delta Kappa — Beta Xi chapter and designate Scholarship Fund on the memo line. Donations can be mailed to the attention of Claire Plott, Treasurer, 1115 Sawyer Drive, Opelika, AL 36801.
Jerry McConnell
Jerry McConnell, of Opelika, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025, at age 75. Jerry was born on Dec. 29, 1949, in Opelika. A celebration of Jerry’s life was held Sunday, Nov. 16, at Providence Baptist Church.
Jerry is preceded in death by his parents Woodrow and Susie McConnell; brothers: Charles (Red) McConnell, William (Billy) Oscar McConnell, and Jeffery McConnell; sister Carol McConnell Taylor; and his beloved daughter Kelleigh McConnell Meredith.
Jerry is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Sandra Golden McConnell; daughter Mandie McConnell Greene (Jay); grandchildren: Lauren Meredith Peppers (Cullen), Autumn Ann Meredith and Bailey Elizabeth Greene; great-grandchildren: Jackson and Kallie Peppers; brother Robert (Bobby) McConnell (Linda); and countless other family members and friends.
Jerry was a dedicated, hardworking man, who devoted more than 30 years of service to the Opelika Light and Power Company. When he wasn’t serving the community at work, he enjoyed serving his family at home. A true southern gentleman, Jerry never let anyone leave his home hungry, without a coat in the cold or with an empty tank of gas. He always put the needs of others above his own.
Jerry enjoyed many things in life. From playing softball — his favorite sport — to skiing his family around Lake Martin on his boat, to taking cruises with his wife and friends, to cheering on his Auburn Tigers, to playing golf at Indian Pines — proudly getting two hole in one’s, Jerry loved enjoying God’s creation.
Above all these things, Jerry loved spending time with his family and friends. Whether it be joking with his buddies on the golf course, teaching his grandchildren to swim or rocking his newborn great-grandchildren, it didn’t matter to Jerry what he was doing, as long as he got to do it with the ones he loved. He will be dearly missed by all that had the privilege of loving him, and being loved by him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Kelleigh Meredith Memorial Scholarship Fund www.cacf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate, or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
PHILLIP ERNEST THOMPSON
Phillip Ernest Thompson was born on Feb. 18, 1940, in Birmingham, Alabama, to the late Malcolm Ernest Thompson and Clara Fuller Thompson; he passed away on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. He was 85 years old.
He married the love of his life, Virginia Ann Brown in 1970. They were married 55 years. Preceded in death by Phil’s first son, Phillip Ernest Thompson Jr., they raised four wonderful children, Tracy Ray (Craig), Tiffany Thompson Popma (Martin), Tammy Chapman (Kevin) and Terry Boyd (John). Phil and Virginia have eight grandsons, Brandon Ray, Zachary Popma, Taylor, Tanner, Benjamin, William and Jack Chapman and Logan Boyd.
Phillip’s commitment to hard work started at a very young age leading him to joining his father’s, Malcom Thompson, plumbing supply business, along with his brother Dennis. In 1962, Phillip moved to Opelika to open another branch of Thompson Supply, which is still going strong today. Phil had a passion for snow skiing, hiking and camping and had spent quality time with his family on such activities. He taught many of his grandsons, and even a son-in-law, how to snow ski and hiked many miles with them as well. Phillip had created a legacy through his unwavering dedication, kindness and love for his community. He had been a source of inspiration to his family and friends, touching the lives of countless people throughout his life.
Preceded in death by his brother Dennis Thompson; sisters Susan Gardner; and Dee Prestridge. Survived by siblings, Patsy Armstead and Angel Thompson.
A special thanks to the love and care given to Dad by Anthony Wilson, Trina Reed, Zan Harrison, Wanda Coley, Marquez “Coop” Cooper and Carolyn Wilson.
Our deepest gratitude to Sharon Lee for going above and beyond, for Holly Eaton’s care, and for the incredible staff at The Harbor at Opelika.
A celebration of life was held on Tuesday, Nov. 18. Interment followed in Greenwood Serenity Memorial Cemetery in Montgomery, Alabama.
You may send flowers or contributions can be made in his honor to the Bethany House (Compassus Living Foundation). www.compassus.com/about-us/giving-and-donations/
CAPT. RONALD LEE NEWSOM
Capt. Ronald Lee Newsom, 92, a resident of Auburn, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025.
Ron was born on May 13, 1933. He grew up in Decatur, Alabama, and attended Auburn University (formerly Alabama Polytechnic Institute), where he earned his degree in civil engineering in 1958. He went on to begin a distinguished career with the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey/NOAA, serving as commanding officer of the McArthur (a 175-foot, 995-ton vessel) and later the Researcher (a 278-foot, 2,923-ton vessel). After retiring from military service, he continued his work at The Brighton Dam in Maryland. Over the course of his life, Ron and his family lived in Hawaii, Virginia, Alaska, South Carolina, Washington State, Florida, Maryland and Alabama.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Lee and Merle Bass Newsom; his wife of 69 years, Sylvia Smith Newsom; his children Brad Newsom (Ann), Kenneth Newsom (Carol) and Patrick Newsom; his grandchildren Allie Newsom, Erin Sprague (Chase), McKinley McKinnell (Rusty), Dakota, Addison and Grayson Newsom; two great-grandchildren, Hudson and Logan Sprague.
He was loved by all who knew him. Ron lived a rich and fulfilling life — traveling, scouting, camping and cherishing time with his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a devoted husband, a wonderful Dad and a deeply loved Grandpa. He will be forever missed and forever loved.
The family will hold a private gathering to honor and celebrate his life.
FRED “BUCK” POTTS MOORE JR.
Fred Potts Moore Jr., affectionately known as “Buck,” of Auburn, passed away on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, at the age of 80. Born on Nov. 22, 1944, in Opelika, Buck lived a life devoted to family, faith and community.
A graveside service was held Tuesday, Nov. 18, at Memorial Park Cemetery in Auburn. Attendees were encouraged to wear their favorite Auburn attire in honor of Buck.
Buck is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Cynthia Hawkins Moore; daughters Monica Moore Merrett (Ryan) and Melissa Moore Robertson (Bruce); cherished grandsons Reid Golson and Andrew Golson; beloved sister Fay Hawkins Burns; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A proud graduate of Auburn University, Buck earned his degree in Agricultural Engineering in 1968 and dedicated 41 years of his career to the bush hog. He was an innovator and holds several patents of various types of farm equipment. He embodied the Auburn Creed, continuing to support both the College of Agriculture and the College of Engineering by sponsoring senior projects for Agricultural Engineering students.
Buck was an avid outdoorsman who shared his love of hunting and fishing with his grandsons. He was also a skilled wood craftsman, creating heirloom furniture pieces that will be treasured by his family for generations. Above all, Buck was a devoted family man whose greatest joy was spending time with those he loved. His presence will be deeply missed.
To honor Buck’s memory, gifts can be made to the AU Foundation for the Alabama Section of ASABE. www.give.auburn.edu or mailed to ATTN: Gift Accounting PO Box 3140 Auburn, AL 36831-3140.
THOMAS A. BENNETT
Thomas A. Bennett, 76, passed into Heaven surrounded by his family on Nov. 10, 2025, after a cardiac arrest while getting a massage on his favorite cruise liner. It is just like Tom to go out with a bang! He would have wanted a good story. Tom was born on Sept. 21, 1949, to William Bennett and Margaret Wilson Bennett.
He went to Thomas Dale High School and then onto Virginia Tech for his Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering. In 1971, he married Trish, the mother of his children, and they remained together until her death. In 2020, he met and married his travel companion Lisa. They enjoyed many vacations together all over the country.
Tom was a loving husband, father and papa (grandfather). He enjoyed traveling, Disney World, Virginia Tech football games, playing cards and problem solving. He always took care of his family and loved them deeply.
He worked at Ampex (Quantegy) as an engineer for many years. He was also a recruiter for MRINetwork. In between jobs, he helped Wayne Kimberly build houses. They collectively designed the Bennett family home affectionately known as the “Sunnyslope Estate.”
He was a member of Lakeview Baptist Church in Auburn and Central Church in Pensacola Beach, Florida. He enjoyed teaching Sunday School.
Tom is survived by his wife Lisa Bennett; daughters Kathy Bennett, Valerie Bennett and Debbie (John) Logan; granddaughter Amber Johns; sister Annette Amshoff; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents and first wife Patricia Bennett.
In lieu of flowers, make a donation to a church, charity or an Angel Tree wish in his name.
A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Nov. 19, at Town Creek Cemetery. Pastor Jack Kale will be officiating the service.
MICHAEL KEVIN HAND
Kevin Hand, 53, passed away on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. Kevin was born Oct. 11, 1972 in Opelika, Alabama to Michael and Charline Hand of LaFayette.
Kevin was a 1991 graduate of Chambers Academy in LaFayette. He was a three-letter athlete, having played basketball, baseball and football. He attended Auburn University and graduated from Troy State University with a degree in business. He worked in several jobs before finding his perfect place at Tallapoosa River Electric in LaFayette as manager of member services.
Kevin enjoyed spending time with his family and traveling. He was an avid golfer, enjoying many games with friends. Another activity he enjoyed very much was hunting, especially duck hunting in Mississippi with friends. Kevin also enjoyed going to football games at Reeltown and watching his daughter cheer. He was on his way to one of her games in Cottonwood, Alabama, when his death occurred.
Kevin was a member of LaFayette Heights Baptist Church in LaFayette where he enjoyed participating in their services and activities.
Kevin was preceded in death by grandparents Charles and Tillie Cumbee and Bonnie and Pearl Hand; his father Michael D. Hand; and uncle Felton Langley, all of LaFayette; and aunt Bronwyn Hand of San Antonio, Texas.
He is survived by his wife LaTonia Ison Hand; mother Charline Hand; brother Kenneth Hand (DeAnna); children Addison (Addie) and Kade Hand; nephews Kyle, Landon and Cohen Hand; aunt Phyllis Langley; step-daughter Cambree Fuller; and granddaughter Rockie Brown.
Services were held Tuesday, Nov. 18 at 11 a.m. at LaFayette Heights Baptist Church with the Revs. Dave Bearden and Jimmy Allen conducting the service. Burial followed in the LaFayette City Cemetery.
PATRICE CALHOUN REED
Patrice Calhoun Reed, 78, passed away at UAB Hospital on Monday, Nov. 10, 2025. She resided in Opelika, and was a member of Wallace Chapel Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles Walter Calhoun and Mary Agnes Teel; brother, Tony Calhoun; and beloved nephew, Robert Martin Andrews II.
She is survived by her beloved husband of 60 years, Richard W Reed; sister, Betty Robertson (Joe) Gold Hill, Alabama; brother, Dr. James W Calhoun (Dr. Caroline) Vestavia Hills; niece, Jennifer Pittman; nephew, John Mark Calhoun; grand-nephew, Robert Andrews and grand-niece, Elizabeth Andrews.
A funeral service was held Nov. 18 in the Chapel at Frederick Dean Funeral Home with the Rev. Jodie Robinson officiating. Interment followed at Garden Hills Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or East Alabama Food Bank. Frederick-Dean Funeral Homes assisted the family with arrangements.
