TIMOTHY CARRELL DYKES
Timothy Carrell Dykes, 45, of Eufaula, Alabama, died Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025, at UAB Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama.
Graveside services were be held Monday, Oct. 27, at 11 a.m. in the Georgetown Cemetery with the Revs. Chris Toole and Stephen Doss officiating and Chapman Funeral Home directing. The visitation was held immediately following the service at the cemetery.
Born June 26, 1980 in Columbus, Georgia, Tim was the son of Carrell “Ham” (Denise) Dykes and Robin Burtz Hart. He was a loving and dedicated father, son and brother. He was a graduate of Eufaula High School, Class of 1998. He attended Auburn University, Wallace Community College and the University of Alabama Birmingham. He was an avid follower of Jesus Christ.
Survivors other than his parents include his children Jakob and Zoey Dykes; two brothers Whit (Kelly) Dykes and Hart Dykes; and his auntCarol Baker.
SARAH CHARLES CHAFIN BARRON
Sarah Charles Chafin Barron passed away Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025, at her home in the Beauregard Community at the age of 96. She was born July 19, 1929 to the late Charlie Clifton Chafin and Ella Mae Thompson Chafin.
Visitation was held Saturday, Oct. 25, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home with a graveside service following at Mt. Olive Baptist Church Cemetery, Society Hill Road in Opelika. Brother David Crouch officiated.
Sarah Charles was a member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church where she was church secretary for many years. Sarah was a 1947 graduate of Beauregard High School and a graduate of Opelika Vocational School. Sarah enjoyed clerical work and bookkeeping and worked in this field many years. Her early career included 14 years at Rhodes Furniture in Opelika on Railroad Avenue and various other jobs including the Lee County Tax Collectors Office, Diversified Products and Nixon Grass Farm before retiring from Auburn University payroll and employee benefits office.
In addition to her parents, Sarah was predeceased by her loving husband of 50 years James Walter Barron. She is survived by her three daughters: Nancy Lei Barron of Opelika, Lou (Lance) Sexton of Tuscaloosa and Mary Lisa (Tim) Mullins of Opelika, all of whom she loved dearly; two beloved grandchildren Sophia (Blake) Corbitt and Noori Barron Mallaji; one great-grandchild Hiram Corbitt, the newest addition to the family.
The family extends love and gratitude to Sarah’s caregivers: Rebecca, Chris, Meghan and Ree.
Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
BEVERLY STARR
With heavy hearts, the family of Beverly T. Starr announced her passing on Oct. 21, 2025. Beverly was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother whose kindness and warmth touched everyone she met.
She is survived by her husband Richard David Starr; and their cherished children Christopher Michael Starr, (Catherine) and Melissa Ann Starr; a grandson Jackson H. Starr, who brought immense joy and pride into her life. She also leaves behind a beloved dog, Gus.
Beverly will be remembered for her generous spirit, her love for family and her unwavering compassion. She created a home filled with laughter, love and strength — qualities that will live on through all who knew and loved her.
The family invites friends and loved ones to honor Beverly’s memory in their own special way, remembering the love and light she shared so freely.
The family request that in lieu of flowers that donations be made to The Bethany House, Hospice Angles Foundation/Compassus Living Foundation at 3193 Boardwalk Dr., Saginaw, MI, 48603. It is a registered 501(c)(3) organization. The website it www.hospiceAngles.org or www.compassuslivingfoundation.org.
CURTIS RAY SIDES
Curtis Ray Sides, age 71, passed away peacefully on Oct. 21, 2025, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly, after a courageous battle with dementia.
Born on Oct. 11, 1954, in Valley, Alabama, Curtis lived a life marked by laughter, loyalty and an unwavering love for the people around him. He was a devoted son, brother, husband, father and grandfather whose presence filled every room with warmth and joy.
For 50 years, Curtis shared his life with his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Teresa Meadows Sides. Together they built a marriage grounded in deep faith, friendship and fun — a true partnership that weathered life’s highs and lows with grace and laughter.
Curtis is survived by his beloved wife Teresa; his children Benji Sides (Lee), Clay Sides (Kari) and Lindsey Sharpe (Dusty); and his adored grandchildren Morgan, Mallory, Lily, Cannon, Adleigh, Mary Clayton and Elle, who were the absolute lights of his life. He is also survived by his brothers Paul East and Robert Sides.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Myrtle Sides and his sister Glenda Miles.
Curtis had an energy and spirit that drew people in. He never met a stranger and made everyone feel like a lifelong friend. His smile could brighten the darkest day, and his laugh — rich, genuine and infectious — lingers in the memories of all who knew him.
Family was the heartbeat of Curtis’s life. Whether he was cheering from the stands, sharing stories at the dinner table or playing with his grandkids, he was happiest surrounded by those he loved. He also found great joy in the beach, traveling and, of course, Auburn football. Saturdays in the fall were sacred — Curtis never missed a game, proudly celebrating his 500th consecutive Auburn game last season in Athens, Georgia. His passion for the Tigers was matched only by the friendships he and Teresa built through their community of friends who became like family and shared a lifetime of laughter, tailgates and memories. Though the Saturdays ahead will never be quite the same, his Auburn “family” will continue to gather in his honor, carrying forward his love for the game and the people who made it special.
In his later years, as dementia became part of his story, Curtis and Teresa found hope, comfort and belonging through REACH (Refresh, Encourage, Activities, Care, Hope) — the Community Respite Ministry at Auburn United Methodist Church. REACH became a joyful constant in their lives, offering purpose, laughter and community.
A Celebration of Life for Curtis will be held at Auburn United Methodist Church on Friday, Oct 31. Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. with the service following at 11.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the REACH program at Auburn United Methodist Church, a ministry that meant so much to Curtis and continues to bring light to others walking a similar path.
Curtis’s life was one of joy, generosity and love — a reminder to all who knew him that the best legacy we leave is found not in what we have, but in how deeply we love.
A Toast and Tailgate in memory of Curtis will be held on Saturday, Nov. 1 at the Sides/Knox Tailgate. The family welcomes anyone who would like to join in on the celebration of a life that will be dearly missed.
BRENDA BAKER KEEL
Brenda Baker Keel, lovingly known to her family as Mimi, passed away peacefully at her home in Orange Beach, Alabama, on Oct. 20, 2025, at the age of 79.
Brenda was born on April 16, 1946, in Alexander City, Alabama, to the late Fred and Mozelle Baker. She was preceded in death by her beloved sisters, Linda McCollough and Glenda McSpadden and her cherished grandson, Gage Keel.
Brenda was the heart of her family — a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. Brenda is survived by her devoted husband of 60 years, Rayford “Shot” Keel, and their three sons, Mark (Farrah) Keel of Orange Beach, Mike Keel of Dadeville, Alabama, and Scott Keel of Gulf Shores, Alabama. She was a proud grandmother to Alex (Alex) Barger, Tatum (Brendon) Allen, Judson Keel, Ensley Keel, Peyton (Shelby) Keel, Fischer Keel, Nathan Keel and Caleb Keel. She also leaves behind two precious great-grandchildren, Jameson Barger and Bryson Keel, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.
Mimi brought so much light, laughter and love into our lives, and she will be forever missed. She had a light that could brighten any room, a smile that lifted spirits, words that comforted hearts and a love that made people feel seen and cared for. She was truly a reflection of God’s grace, and her life was a beautiful example of what it means to walk with Christ. Brenda spent over 20 years as a real estate broker in Auburn, where her warmth and honesty made lasting impressions on everyone she met. After earning her real estate broker’s license, she owned and operated Keel Real Estate in Auburn for many years. Brenda’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She loved going to church, singing hymns and praising Jesus with all her heart. Her faith gave her strength, peace and joy that she shared freely with everyone around her. Her happiest moments were spent surrounded by family — cooking big meals, sharing stories and cheering on those she loved most.
To know Brenda was to love her. Her life was a testament to love, dedication and grace. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Though our hearts are broken, we find peace in knowing she’s now resting in the arms of her Savior.
A memorial service to celebrate her life was held at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home in Opelika, on Tuesday, Oct. 28, with a graveside service at Garden Hill Cemetery in Opelika. Thank you for lifting Brenda and our family in prayers as we navigate this tragic loss. Please know we deeply appreciate your love and support. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that monetary donations be made to Lifepoint Church in Alexander City.
A GoFundMe account has been set up at www.gofundme.com/f/honor-brenda-baker-keel-donate-to-lifepoint-church.
Frederick-Dean Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
ANNETTE COGGINS
BARFIELD
Annette Coggins Barfield, age 93, of LaFayette, passed away peacefully on Oct. 25, 2025, at Bethany House in Auburn. Annette was born Sept. 14, 1932, in Lincoln, Alabama.
Annette lived a life defined by patience, kindness and quiet strength. She had a gentle spirit and a selfless heart, always content with the simple joys of life — a warm conversation, the company of family and the beauty of everyday moments.
Annette is survived by her three daughters, Gloria Johnson, Teresa Edmondson and Paula (Steve) Green; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.
She was preceded in death by her parents, A.J. and Nettie Crawford Coggins; brother, Jerry Coggins; daughter, Lydia Hubbard; grandson, Jason Hubbard; and sons-in-law, Albert Johnson and Danny Edmondson.
The family would like to offer their heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at LaFayette Nursing Home and the Bethany House for their kindness, compassion and gentle care shown to Annette and her family.
A graveside service was held Tuesday Oct. 28, at the LaFayette City Cemetery with visitation from 1 to 2 p.m. with the funeral services following. Pastor Josh Walley officiated.
The family will be accepting flowers or donations to the Bethany House.
Jeff Jones Funeral Home of LaFayette handled the arrangements.
ROBERT CRAIG WARREN SR.
Robert Craig Warren, Sr., age 74, of Opelika, Alabama, passed away peacefully at his home on Oct. 25, 2025.
Visitation will be held 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31, at Trinity Methodist Church in Opelika, followed by a funeral service at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Earl Ballard and Steve Warren (Eulogy) officiating. Burial will follow at Town Creek Cemetery, Auburn, with Joel Warren officiating. Serving as pallbearers will be Robert Craig Warren Jr., Joshua Kevin Warren, Micah Brett Warren, Benjamin Alan Warren, Archer Clinton Warren and Grayson Robert Warren. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
Robert was born Sept. 1, 1951, to RC and Ingrid Warren. He graduated from Dothan High School and continued his studies at Troy State University, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree. He then attended Asbury Theological Seminary where he earned a Master of Divinity degree in 1982.
Robert proudly served his country in the Air National Guard for six years and the Army National Guard for 20 years as Chaplain. He received the rank of Major during his years of service. He also dedicated his life to the ministry and began serving as pastor at Rutledge United Methodist Church. He went on to pastor several United Methodist churches. In 1998, he became the founding pastor of St. Andrew by the Sea Community Church. He retired from the ministry in 2022 from First United Methodist Church in Phenix City.
Known for his eloquence, insight and compassion, Robert was a gifted public speaker, a thoughtful poet and a seeker of wisdom.
He shared 41 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Patricia Anne Tiller Warren, and together they built a home filled with love, laughter and faith. Robert was a devoted husband, a loving father and an exceptional “Papa” to his cherished grandchildren. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures — fishing, relaxing by the water, listening to music, golfing and making his grandchildren laugh with his signature silly faces.
Robert is survived by his wife, Patricia Anne Tiller Warren; his sons, Robert Craig Warren Jr. (Megan), Joshua Kevin Warren (Amanda) and Micah Brett Warren (Barrett); his mother Ingrid Warren; his brothers, Steve Warren and Joel Warren; sisters-in-law, Renee Warren, Lisa Warren and Dian Warren; his grandsons, Benjamin, Archer, Grayson and Cash; his granddaughters, Savannah, Scarlotte and Caroline; He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, extended family members and dear friends.
Robert was preceded in death by his father, RC Warren and his brother, David Warren.
He will be remembered for his kind heart and his unwavering love for his family.
DAVID BRAZEAL
David Brazeal, 68, passed away peacefully in his home on Oct. 24, 2025. He was born in Valley, Alabama, on March 1, 1957, and lived a life filled with music, laughter and devotion to his family and friends.
David is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Lisa Ward Brazeal, his son Patrick Shivers (Aubryn); stepdaughter April Henley (Scott); grandchildren Hanna, Halie and Bryce Henley, and John Patrick and Blade Shivers; and brother Charles Brazeal (Anita). He was preceded in death by his parents, H.C. and Beth Brazeal and his stepson Bert Jones.
David worked at Vision World as an optician for 30 years, where he was known for his skill and dedication to helping others. Outside of work, his true passion was music. He shared his talent as a drummer with various bands throughout his life, bringing joy and rhythm to countless performances. David will be remembered for his kind spirit, quick wit and the steady beat he brought not only to his music, but to the lives of everyone who knew him.
Visitation was held at Frederick-Dean funeral home on Wednesday, Oct. 29 and a graveside service followed at Shady Grove Cemetery. Donations may be made in his memory to Shady Grove Christian Church, 2194 Lee Rd 177 Opelika, AL 36804.
Frederick-Dean Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
