Coach Jimmy DeVenny
Vistation for DeVenny will be Feb. 21, at 10 a.m. at Parkway Baptist Church in Auburn.
The funeral will start at 11 a.m.
LINDA THOMAS NORRELL
Linda Thomas Norrell, 77 of Beauregard, AL went home to be with the Lord on Feb. 5, 2026, at her residence surrounded by family after a courageous battle with aggressive thyroid cancer. Born on March 27, 1948, she was a proud graduate of Beauregard High School class of 1966. She lived a life marked by devotion to her family and her Baptist faith. Known lovingly as “Nana,” Linda found her greatest joy in supporting her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, in life and especially sports. She was known for always making sure everyone had their favorite snacks and creating a home filled with love, laughter and comfort. She fiercely loved her grandchildren, and she was driven even more by her deep devotion to her great grandbabies, who were the light of her life. Her family was her world, and she kept them close, drawing strength from her Christian faith. She leaned on the promise of Psalms 23 and held firmly to the hope of John 3:16 trusting in the Lord through every season. She was preceded in death by her parents, PFC Gordon Thomas of Greenville, Alabama, and Roy and Ann Murphy of Fairfax, Alabama; a brother, Terri Blackwell of Greenville; a sister, Sylvia Murphy of Greenville; and her brother-in-Law C.W. McGuire of Lockwood, Missouri.
Those left to cherish her memory include her sister, Betty McGuire of Lockwood, Missouri; her children, Corey Norrell (Gary) of Valley, Alabama, Christy Merritt of Opelika (Beauregard), Heather Bayles (Austin) of Opelika (Beauregard); her loving grandchildren, Christin Deupree (Josh), Austin Simpson (Nichole), Catherine and Gracie Bayles, all of Opelika (Beauregard); her beloved great-grandchildren, Cooper and Conner Deupree and Hudson and Harper Simpson; and many extended family members and dear friends.
Linda will be remembered as a devoted mother, Nana, sister and friend whose love was steady, generous and unconditional. Her legacy will live on in the family she treasured so deeply.
Her wish was to be celebrated in private by her family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to Compassus Hospice and Harper’s Hand nonprofit Organization devoted to helping the community she loved dearly.
Ira Harrison Weissinger, III
On Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, Ira Harrison Weissinger, III was called to leave this realm and join Jesus, his Savior and Lord, in heaven. Ira was born on April 17, 1962, to Rae Tallakson Weissinger and Ira Harrison Weissinger Jr. in Opelika. He remained a resident of Lee County throughout his life. Growing up, Ira attended Lee Academy, and as a youth, he developed a love for cars and tinkering — a passion he never outgrew.
On March 14, 2009, Ira married Melinda Lucille Williams at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Opelika. Their marriage was blessed with two daughters, Emma Nicole and Ella Noelle, who were the joy of his life. Professionally, Ira owned and operated Foreign Automotive Technicians, an automobile repair shop located at 2526 Lee Road 177 in Opelika, for more than 36 years. Ira will be remembered by his love for people, his incredible sense of humor and his servant-hearted devotion to his wife and daughters. Ira’s steadfast belief in Jesus guided his decisions and gave him a profound sense of peace and purpose. As a lifelong member of Trinity Presbyterian Church, Ira served faithfully as both a member and a deacon.
Ira is survived by his wife, Melinda; his two daughters, Emma Nicole and Ella Noelle; his parents, Rae Tallakson Weissinger and Ira Harrison Weissinger, Jr.; his siblings, Charles Lee Weissinger (Ginelle Williams Weissinger) and Kari Weissinger Wood (Joel Carter Wood); and many nieces and nephews: Joshua Carter Wood (Marissa Carroll Wood), Charles Harrison Weissinger (Anna Kierce Weissinger), James Adam Weissinger, Ransom Alexander Wood, Micah Weissinger Warren (John Gonzalez Warren), Kari Elizabeth Wood, Caleb Lee Weissinger, Sara Corinne Weissinger and Calvin Palmer Wood.
A memorial service for Ira was held Saturday, Feb. 14, at at Trinity Presbyterian Church. A graveside service for family and close friends was held at Rosemere Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to www.everloved.com/life-of/ira-weissinger-iii/ fund for the benefit of his wife and daughters. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. The family is grateful for the love, prayers and support extended to them during this time.
Dr. Andrew Malcolm Weaver
Dr. Andrew M. Weaver, 97, of Auburn, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026.
Born May 28, 1928, in White County, Tennessee, to parents Isaac Walter Weaver and Alice L. Whitaker. All of those who knew Dr. Weaver well, called him Andy and if you were in that circle of friends, it was an honor. Dr. Weaver was always available to give advice on both academic and personal situations. Many friends and students will gladly talk about how he changed their lives. What more can be said about Dr. Weaver other than he changed lives for the better.
Dr. Weaver’s parents were farmers who raised eight children, with Dr. Weaver being the youngest. They raised their own food and managed to get by, even though the county was in a depression. With eight children and two adults to feed, dinner time could get quite exciting but “Malc,” as they called him in his younger days, always got fed. When Dr. Weaver turned 17, he enlisted in the Navy. His parents refused to let him join until World War II ended so he served from March 1946 to December 1947. After he returned from the Navy, he worked a few years and then joined the Army. He served from 1951 to 1954 and finished with the rank of captain. Dr. Weaver loved the military and he carried his Navy and Army discharge cards all of his life. His dog tags are still on the keychain that he carried with him. Many veterans benefitted from his love of the Army. During his enlistment he benefitted from the G.I. Bill which paid for his education. He received a Bachelor’s of Science from Tennessee Polytechnic Institute in 1951 in Social Science. Next, he completed a Master of Arts from the University of Tennessee in 1955. At this time a professor asked him if he wanted to be a doctoral student and he agreed whole-heartedly. The Kellogg Foundation was active in helping students fund their education and Dr. Weaver used these funds to complete his Doctor of Education in 1960 from the University of Tennessee. He still carried his UT Alumni card at all times. After graduation he taught in the Knoxville City School System and was an assistant principal while in Knoxville. The next big leap for him was when he was asked by Dr. Truman Pierce to come to Auburn with a few other men. He accepted and worked many years, 49 to be exact, at Auburn.
Before retiring, he served as president for the Alabama Council for the Social Studies and was involved in the Auburn chapter of Phi Delta Kappa. He also chaired a number of committees including the Graduate Faculty Committee. He authored several papers and was a consultant for the U.S. Office of Education. After retiring as the assistant dean of education, he worked tirelessly on the Ivey Cultural Approach program and just recently stepped back from that program.
Dr. Weaver was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Ronald J. Weaver and wife of 45 years, Sara Jacqueline Gnann Weaver.
He is survived by his son, Andrew S. Weaver (Oula); grandson, Andrew S. Weaver Jr. (Kali); and his great-granddaughter, Lily S. Weaver.
All those who knew him, loved him and he lived a long, productive life, leaving many friends behind.
A funeral service for Dr. Weaver was held Monday, Feb. 16, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Burial followed at Auburn Memorial Park Cemetery.
Donations can be made to Auburn University School of Education or the Ronald J. Weaver Scholarship fund at the School of Education.
Carol Ann Childress Miracle
Carol Ann (Childress) Miracle was born on Feb. 16, 1969, to the late Dan and Era Faye (White) Childress in Opelika.
She lived in Opelika for the entirety of her life and was a proud member of the community for that duration, being quoted as saying, “I’ve never wanted to live anywhere else.” She commuted to Auburn University of Montgomery and graduated with a Bachelors in Public Relations.
In recent years, Carol Ann worked at Southern Union State Community College with English Language Learner students, whom she adored, and at the lab of Building 22 of East Alabama Health. Prior to this, she worked as a realtor within Lee County. She worshipped alongside her family at Neos Church.
She is survived by her husband Wayne Miracle; her sister Linda Garb; her two children Abby and Spencer Miracle; and her son-in-law to be Alexander Galloway.
A gathering of family and friends was held on Tuesday, Feb. 17, at Neos Church located inside Auburn Opelika Seventh Day Adventist Church featuring words by Pastor Rudy Sardiñas and Pastor Cade Ferris.
In lieu of flowers any contributions to the Carol Ann Cancer Journey GoFundMe are appreciated in the support of the surviving Miracle family, www.linktr.ee/carolannmiracle.
Levi Alvin Knapp Jr.
Levi Alvin Knapp Jr., lovingly known as “Sonny” to his older sisters and many who knew him best, passed away peacefully on Feb. 8, 2026, at his home in Opelika, surrounded by the family he cherished. He was 96 years old.
Levi was born on April 2, 1929, in Auburn, to Levi and Annie Mae Knapp. From an early age, he developed the warmth, humor and steady character that would define his life. While attending Auburn High School, he met the love of his life, Dorothy “Dot” Knapp. Their school-day romance blossomed into a marriage on April 23, 1949 — a partnership filled with laughter, devotion and square dancing — that spanned an extraordinary 72 years.
Together, Levi and Dot built a loving family. He is survived by their three children Brenda Havron (Ray), Sharon Morgan (Richard) and Levi Knapp III (Susan). He was a proud grandfather to Jennifer Parker (Jordan), Andrew Knapp (Jarah), Jeffrey Knapp (Meg), Chandler Ryan (Kevin) and Erin Morgan, and delighted in the arrival of his great-grandson, Levi Logan Ryan. Levi was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Evelyn, Jeanette, and Annie Mae; and his grandson, Logan Stapleton.
Levi served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, stationed in Okinawa and Guam. Following his military service, he pursued higher education at Alabama Polytechnic Institute — now Auburn University — proudly graduating in 1955 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in accounting.
His professional career spanned decades in accounting and finance, culminating in his retirement as Director of Finance for the city of Auburn in 1994. He approached his work with integrity and dedication — qualities that were carried into every part of his life.
Outside of work, Levi embraced life with enthusiasm. He loved flying, especially piloting his own plane and later kept that passion alive through his flight simulator. Many joyful days were spent water skiing and boating on Lake Martin, square dancing hand-in-hand with Dot, reading and — most importantly — enjoying time with his family. He had a quick wit and a playful sense of humor that could brighten any room, often delivered with perfect timing and a twinkle in his eye.
A devoted member of Trinity Methodist Church in Opelika, Levi treasured his church family and remained a faithful member until his passing. His kindness, charm, loyalty and humor left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Levi lived a full and meaningful life grounded in faith, family, service and laughter. He will be remembered not only for what he accomplished, but for how he made people feel — welcomed, loved and often smiling. His legacy lives on in the family he adored and the countless memories they will carry forward. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.
There was a service and Celebration of Life on Friday, Feb. 13.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donation to Trinity Church or Aveanna Hospice in his name.
Doris Elaine Rankin Miller
Doris Miller, beloved mom, nana, aunt and friend died peacefully, surrounded by family, at her home at the age of 90. Doris was born in Nyack, New York, while her father was a seminary student. The second of three daughters, Doris grew up primarily in Atlanta, Georgia as a “PK” — preacher’s kid — spending much of her time in and around her church. A graduate of Bass High School in Atlanta, Doris worked for the Federal Reserve Bank prior to meeting the love of her life, Gene, in the summer of 1957. Their courtship was a whirlwind long-distance romance — they were engaged by Christmas and married in early 1958.
Doris and Gene welcomed their three children, Mark, Laura and Dara in the 1960s. In the early years of their marriage, the couple made their home in several cities throughout the Southeast, including Orlando and Miami, Florida and Anniston, Alabama, finally settling in Atlanta, Georgia, where they lived for more than 35 years, enjoying a rich social life, until moving to Auburn, Alabama in the early 2000s to be close to family.
Doris was beloved by her children and grandchildren as much as she was beloved by her spouse. A natural caregiver, gentle soul and tender, kind spirit, she nurtured not only her children and their friends but also brought a beautiful spirit of love and joy to her many friendships and acquaintances, her extended family and numerous family pets throughout her life. Being a loving Nana to her grandchildren was one of her greatest joys, and she relished every opportunity to be with them and their friends. Her lovely light will shine on in all whose lives she touched.
As a young mother, Doris learned to play tennis, which became a lifelong hobby and led to deep friendships which she treasured throughout her adulthood. In her later years, she and Gene enjoyed travelling to destinations throughout the world and maintained a rich social life in Auburn where Doris enjoyed the company of a host of friends from church, Campus Club, water aerobics and her neighborhood.
Doris was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Gene M. Miller; by her parents, the Rev. Hamilton Paul Rankin and Elaine Clay Hall Rankin; and by her sisters, Joyce Rankin Vickers and Charlotte Rankin Harris. Doris is survived by her children, Markham C. Miller (Kirsten) and their children Sylvan, Kelly and AnnElise; Laura L. Miller (Peter Lerwill) and his daughter Alexis Nguyen; and Dara L. Miller and her children Connor and Madelaine Duggan; along with a nephew, Tim (Susie) Vickers.
Visitation will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 24 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home in Opelika.
A service of Christian burial will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 25 at 2 p.m. at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Auburn, followed by a private interment. The family will greet guests beginning at 1 p.m.
In lieu of flowers the family invites friends to consider a memorial donation to Holy Trinity Episcopal Church or to the ALTA Foundation (www.altatennis.org/AltaFoundation.aspx).
Deborah “Debbie” Lindsey Keeble
Deborah “Debbie” Lindsey Keeble, affectionately known as “Birdie” by her grandchildren, entered into the arms of Jesus on Feb. 11. She passed away peacefully and without suffering, beginning her eternal life in Heaven.
Debbie was a woman who found joy in a simple, devoted life. A graduate of Lanett High School, she went on to earn her associate degree from Southern Union. She spent 29 years as a dedicated employee of West Point Stevens before choosing to retire to focus on her greatest passion: being a mother and homemaker.
She was a constant support to her husband, Larry, assisting him throughout his real estate career, and she found great companionship in her beloved “fur babies,” Ajay and Molly. A faithful member of Lakeview Baptist Church, Debbie’s love for the Lord was evident in her kindness toward others. She was well-known for her playful generosity, often tucking rolls of coins or spare change into the hands of children so they could treat themselves to ice cream.
Debbie was preceded in death by her mother, Catherine Messer; her stepfather, Noah Calvin “Red” Messer; and her brother, Lamar Lindsey.
Her legacy of love continues through her husband of 49 years, Larry Keeble; her sons, Jonathan Keeble (Allie) and Matthew Keeble; and her cherished grandchildren, Hadleigh and Beckett, who will forever remember their “Birdie.” She is also survived by her brother, Jimmy Lindsey (Linda); her niece, Paige Lindsey Sasser (Neil); her nephew, Brad Lindsey (Sheena); and many beloved great-nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held Friday, Feb. 20, at 2 p.m. at Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home in Opelika followed by a Celebration of Life service to honor Debbie’s life and faith at 3 p.m.
Linda Johnson Bassett
Linda Johnson Bassett, 74, went to be with the Lord on Feb. 13, 2026. She always had a book or a puzzle book in her hands. She loved listening to Elvis Presley and watching crime documentaries. She leaves behind husband Ralph Hovey; daughters, Sherry (Chris) Smith and Kristy (Kenny) Burgess; step-daughter Tammy (Jimmy) Batson; step-sons Ray (Debbie) Johnson and Lee (April) Johnson. She also leaves behind granddaughters Lizzie Burgess, Katie (Justin) Davidson and Kara Batson; grandsons Evan Burgess, Brantley Johnson, Bryce Johnson, Ryan Johnson and Donovan Johnson; and best friends Dawn Simpson and Sarah Moon.
She was preceded in death by husband Winford Ray Johnson; mother Iva Jean Hamby; father Lewis Herbert Hamby; and sisters Glenda Hamby and Brenda (Cecil) Smallwood.
Services were held on Wednesday, Feb. 18 at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home. Visitation was from 10 a.m. to noon, then a short chapel service followed by a graveside service. All are invited to celebrate her life.
Following the funeral, a time of celebration will be held at Sherry Smith’s house located at 835 E. University Drive, in Auburn.
Frederick-Dean Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
Arnold L. Eades
Arnold is survived by his wife Mickie Eades; a daughter Cynthia Eades Harrison; and a son Richard Eades (Shannon). He has five grandchildren: Christopher Davis (Aimee of South Carolina), Brian Brooks (deceased), Holly Price (Jason of Opelika), Jacob Eades (Niina) and Jessica Eades; seven great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.
Arnold was born in Hart, Texas, to sharecroppers. He was fourth of nine children. Later his family moved to Snyder, Texas, where he graduated from Ira High School. One of his first jobs was as a taxi driver where you could travel across town for .25. Times being hard he decided to join the U.S. Army. After eight months of Infantry Basic Training and Leadership School he was promoted to the rank of sergeant. He served as squad leader and platoon sergeant for the first 10 years, serving in Korea, Germany and Vietnam. The second 10 years he served as instructor and senior instructor. His duties required the writing of technical and field training manuals. He had the privilege of writing citations for military service awards. His last year served was in Germany as Battalion Senior Intelligence Specialist where he was a member of Commander’s Staff on advisement of security within the unit and transference of intelligence information. He was promoted to Master Sergeant. Arnold retired from the U.S. Army on June 30, 1972, with possibility of reinstatement if the occasion arose. Arnold went back to school to learn a new trade. Majoring in Drafting (Mechanical and Architectural). In 1973, he was offered a position with NCR in Peachtree City, Georgia. He became Senior Parts Analyst. This included recognition of all components in cash registers. Arnold retired from NCR after 20 years of service.
Arnold accepted Christ at the age of 12. He took his dedication seriously in following wherever the Lord sent him. While in Peachtree City he was a member of Flat Creek Baptist Church in Fayetteville, Georgia. He was involved in missionary studies. He assisted in building several homes in the U.S. for Habitat for Humanity and lead young men in the field of missionary as to several becoming Ministers themselves.
Arnolds’ last 23 years were spent in Paradise (Opelika, Al). Together with Wife (Mickie) they attended the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witness of Crawford, Alabama. Their activities changed a little part of Beauregard. They ran a Pick and Pay of produce, grew beautiful flowers (Flower Zone Nursery), ran an event center for weddings, reunions and birthdays (Windmill Acres). They also ran an RV and camp park for travelers.
Arnold loved talking with everyone that crossed his journeys path about his days in service, methods on how to grow plants or travels across God’s land. He enjoyed staying busy with his hobbies: gardening, carpentry and tinkering on old cars.
My mother’s fondest memory is how every night before bed he would come up with something to make her laugh. He will be missed by all.
