The News-Press, 10/13/2008 -- Adeline M. Salerno (Addie), 79, of Lehigh Acres, FL passed away Saturday, October 11th. Originally of Yorkville, New York, she moved to Lehigh in 1988 and is a retiree of Mfg. Hanover Trust Bank. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and Lehigh Senior Center. She loved working with her hands doing stained glass art, oil paintings and making puppet clowns. She is predeceased by her husband Peter J. Salerno and her sister Maryann. She will be sadly missed by her loving family and friends.Survivors include her son, Peter and wife Cheryl Salerno of New York; granddaughter, Laura and husband Rob Lamond and grandson Peter Michael Salerno; great grandchildren Haley and Danielle all of New York. She is also survived by her sister, Jeannette Brown and her brother Henry and wife Shirley Tourangeau all of Lehigh Acres. Visitation will be held on Monday, October 13, 2008 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm at the Anderson Funeral Home of Lehigh Acres, 2701 Lee Blvd. Funeral services will commence on Tuesday, October 14, 2008 in the funeral home chapel at 10:00 am. Burial will follow at Lee Memorial Park.

Fort Myers News-Press, Sep 20 1999-- Helen Pingree Balch Salot was born in Topsfield, MA, on 26 of November, 1910, daughter of Franklin Balch and Helen Smith Balch. Helen, her mother and sister came to Fort Myers in 1922 to reside with maternal grandparents, Fred E. and Helen Smith. Helen graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1928 and then graduated from Bryant and Stratton Business College in Boston, MA. She was employed locally at The Fort Myers Press as society editor, and at the Lee County Bank. In 1937 she took a leave of absence from the bank to accept employment with the U.S. Government in Washington, D.C., where she met her husband, Nevin Salot. They were married in St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Fort Myers on 20 July, 1939. They returned to Fort Myers in 1969 after retiring from government service. In her early period in Fort Myers, Helen and sister, Barbara, known as the Balch sisters, were very popular duet singers. They performed at the Fort Myers Pleasure Pier and private parties and organizations. Helen was born in the same house as her ancestor, Roger Balch, who, as a 'Minuteman', fought in the American Revolution. This and her New England background inspired her interest in patriotic and historical organizations. She was a member of the DAR and served a term as Regent of the local Caloosahatchee Chapter. She was organizing president of Everglades Chapter Colonial Dames XVLLth Century. Membership in other organizations includes: Florida Royal Palm Chapter Daughters of Founders and Patriots in America; Women Descendants of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company; Order of The Crown of Charlemagne in USA: Magna Carta Dames; Society of Mayflower Descendants; Fort Myers Woman's Community Club. She served several years as a Docent at Edison Community College Art Gallery. She is survived by her husband of sixty years, Nevin Salot; daughter, The Rev. Susan S. Gaumer and son-in-law, Dr. H. Richard Gaumer, New Orleans, LA; granddaughter, Catherine G. Farr, Seattle, WA; grandson, Matthew R. Gaumer, Los Angeles, CA; sister, Barbara Mann, Fort Myers; sister-in-law, Lorraine S. Primeau, Grosse Point, MI; nieces and nephews. Mass of Christian burial at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 2635 Cleveland Avenue, at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 22nd. Serving as pallbearers will be: George T. (Pat) Mann, Jr., Franklin B. Mann, Franklin B. Mann, Jr., Ian F. Mann, George T. (Ted) Mann, III, Matthew R. Gaumer. Interment at a later date.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, February 8 1944-- Funeral services for Charles Wallace Salter, Jr., who was killed Sunday afternoon on the Palm Beach Boulevard, will be held this afternoon at 4 o'clock in the Lawrence A. Powell chapel with the Rev. John W. Swanson of the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church officiating. Interment will be in the Fort Myers Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press, May 25, 2009-- Samuel Sampler died of lung cancer in Fort Myers in 1979 at age 84, his death meriting a modest obituary in The News-Press. His deeds, though, were epic, not modest. As a 22-year-old Army corporal in World War I, he sprinted across a French field near the Argonne Forest, stepping on corpses littering No Man's Land. It was Oct. 8, 1918, a little more than a month before the war's end. He single-handedly captured 28 Germans.Hundreds of dead surrounded his foxhole. Shells fell around him. The Germans were firing machine guns. Sampler forged ahead."I said to the rest of the guys, 'You can stay here or go with me,'" Sampler, who is buried at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens, told The News-Press in 1975. "It's up to you.It means death if we stay and it means death if we go, but I'm going to try and make a run for it."He picked up unexploded German hand grenades and ran toward the enemy. After the war, Sampler returned to Oklahoma, where he grew up. He and his wife, Rosina, later lived in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Rosina died in 1961, after which Samuel moved to Fort Myers Beach and remarried in 1965. He and his new wife, Florence, moved to North Fort Myers. His grandson, Reg Raban, now a 63-year-old attorney in Beach Haven, N.J., lived with his grandfather for a while as a third-grader, attended John Kennedy's 1961 inauguration with his grandfather and came to Fort Myers in 1979 for his grandfather's funeral."He didn't talk about it that much," Raban said. "I remember when I was living with him there was a book about the Medal of Honor with stories about the more famous recipients. I read that, so I was always aware of what he had done. Didn't really understand the magnitude of it at that time, but have come to know what a great honor it is."Sampler was born in Texas and spent years in Oklahoma and New Jersey. Fort Myers resident Dan Younger, a volunteer with the Medal of Honor Historical Society, said other states claim Sampler as their own. So does Florida.

Caloosa Belle, 5 May 2005-- Egudelia Sanchez, age 58, of LaBelle, passed away April 26, 2005, in Lehigh Acres. She was born February 9, 1947, in Las Marias, Puerto Rico. Survivors include her husband of 44 years: Jose Sanchez Mercado of LaBelle; children: Ana Jaimes and husband Amadeo, Zoraida Sanchez and Angelo Sanchez, all of LaBelle, Francisco Sanchez and wife Tonya of New Jersey and David Sanchez and wife Icelsa of Lehigh Acres; sisters: Monsa Mendez of Connecticut and Isabelle Soto of Brooklyn, NY; brother Juan Soto of Brooklyn; grandchildren: Arlene Molina, Amy Carrillo, Karie Sanchez, Joseph Sanchez, Michael Sanchez, Anthony Sanchez and Logan Sanchez and great grandson: Aidan Molina. She was preceded in death by her son: Jose Antonio Sanchez Jr.Funeral Services were held April 30 at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle with Rev. L.W. Howard officiating. Interment followed at Fort Denaud Cemetery.

Caloosa Belle, Mar 10 2005-- Jose A. Sanchez Jr., age 42, of LaBelle, passed away March 1, 2005, in Greenland, NH. He was born January 9, 1963, in Matical, Puerto Rico, to Jose Sanchez Mercado and Egudelia Soto Sanchez.Survivors include his children: Karrie Ann Sanchez, Joey Sanchez and Michael Sanchez, all of Miami, Anthony Sanchez of New Jersey and Logan Sanchez of LaBelle; parents: Jose Sanchez Mercado and Egudelia Sanchez of LaBelle; brothers: Angelo Sanchez of LaBelle, Francisco Sanchez of New Jersey and David Sanchez of Lehigh Acres; and sisters: Anna James and Zeralda Sanchez, both of LaBelle.Funeral services were held, March 7, at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home with Pastor L.W, Howard officiating. Interment followed at Fort Denaud Cemetery. Arrangements by: Akin-Davis Funeral Home-LaBelle, Florida.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Feb. 1, 1935--Charles Sanders, 75-year-old Floweree Grove employe, died at 6 o'clock yesterday afternoon at his home in Alva. Funeral services will be held at 3 o'clock this afternoon at the Fort Myers cemetery with Lawrence A. Powell, Inc. in charge. He is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Q. Baker and a son, M. Sanders, of Alva.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2005-04-13-- Bonnie Jean Morgan Sanders died at home April 9, 2005. She was born January 21, 1926 in Chicago, IL the daughter of Homer and Louise (Kennedy) Morgan. She was raised in Phillips, Wisconsin and graduated from Phillips High School in 1943. She worked as a bookkeeper in Chicago until her marriage to Dr. Kenneth Sanders in February 1968. She was a member of the D.A.R. and an avid animal lover. She resided in Fort Myers Beach, FL from 1968 until the present. Mrs. Sanders was preceded in death by her husband in February 1983. She is survived by a brother, Arley Morgan of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, two nephews, four nieces and nineteen great nieces and nephews. The family expresses sincere appreciation to Chris Scott, Ms. Sander's longtime caregiver and friend. Cremation arrangements have been handled by Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home and Crematory, Fort Myers.

Fort Myers News-Press 2 Mar 2008-- John Carter Sanders, 60, of Fort Myers, passed away unexpectedly Friday, February 29, 2008.John was a Fort Myers native, born November 18, 1947 to James T. and Daisy (McSwain) Sanders. He was a 1965 graduate of Fort Myers High School and grew up in a Fort Myers that was small and close-knit and where people focused on God, family and the gentle things in life. John had a lifelong love of music, especially the piano, and a natural talent for ballroom dancing that was cultivated by Miss Betty Black. As a child, John's family owned and operated Sanders Brother's Tire Store, and later, he opened Suncoast Tires. John was widely known for his association with Sam Galloway Ford where he worked for 32 years in truck and commercial sales.In his leisure time, John enjoyed golfing, playing pool, scuba diving, and a good game of Gin or Texas Hold 'em, but most of all, John loved to fish. He was an accomplished sports fisherman, having competed in every Cracker Invitational and Ole Timers' Invitational since their inception. John will be remembered as man who was a lighthearted and fun loving with a laid-back outlook on life and gruff exterior that covered a loving and sensitive interior. His family was the center of his existence and lived to make them happy and provide for them to the best of his ability.John leaves behind his loving wife of 22 years, Susan; his former wife of 10 years, Terry Sanders of Fort Myers; his two children, Mark and Tammy Sanders, both of Fort Myers; two Havanese "fur children" Annie and Sophie Sanders; two brothers, J.T. (Sandra) Sanders, Jr. and Cullen (Kim) Sanders, both of Fort Myers; one sister, Jane(Donald) Baucom of Kiniston, AL and formerly of Fort Myers; his brother-in-law Bruce Robertson III of Naples; his nephews, Tyson Sanders, James T. "Jamie" Sanders III and Bruce "Buddy" Robertson IV; his nieces, Ashley Robertson and Jill (Walt) Bethel; grand nieces and grand nephews, Peyton and Truman Bethel and Bruce "Alex" Robertson, V. John is preceded in death by his parents and eldest brother, Terry Sanders.John will be sorely missed by his family as well as the myriad of friends and acquaintances he had acquired as a lifelong resident of Fort Myers. His hallmark was his ability to relate to people of all walks of life. John was as comfortable sitting on a swamp buggy in the middle of the woods as he was at a county club cocktail party. As a child, he enjoyed summers with his family at Fort Myers Beach and Naples. In his younger years he spent many happy hours hunting and fishing on Bear Island with family and friends. His wife, Susan, shared his life-long passion for fishing and the two of them spent many happy hours on the back bays of Pine Island Sound cruising their favorite fishing holes looking for snook and redfish.John and Susan were residents and members of Fiddlesticks County Club for 13 years where John loved to play the "Long Mean" -- a golf course he considered to be one of the finest in Southwest Florida. His golf career was highlighted by three "hole-in-ones" on the third hole, of the Long Mean. Six years ago, he and Susan moved into a little home on the Caloosahatchee in East Fort Myers where, together, they could watch the sun rise and set on the water every day and fish off the "dock of their bay" anytime they wanted.The family will receive friends on Wednesday, March 5th, 2-6 pm, with a memorial service to follow at 6:00 pm at Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Havanese Rescue, c/o Harold Donner11246 Ramrod Road Woodbridge, VA 22192.

Fort Myers News-Press, 15 Apr 2005-- Sherri Lee Owens McCoy Sanders, 42, of Ft. Myers, FL passed away peacefully Wednesday, April 6, 2005. She was also well known by her maiden name Sherri Owens and her 1st marriage name Sherri McCoy because of Sherri's loving and affectionate ways her nickname to the community was Big Red and Lady Sunshine. She leaves to cherish loveable memories her devoted husband Eligah Sanders, Sr., 4 daughters, Shelbrena, Jaquar, Patrice, and Mariah; 2 sons Demetric and Corey McCoy. A home going celebration of life will be held on April 16, 2005 at Covenant Community Ministries, 940 Tarpon St., Ft. Myers, FL (off Palm Beach Blvd.) 1:00 PM. Flowers may be sent to James C. Boyd Funeral Home, 2966 Dr. M.L. King, Jr., Blvd., Ft. Myers, FL 33916.

Writer, artist, teacher Ella Kathryn Hendry Sandige dies at 81 Sarasota Herald Tribune, June 11, 2003-- PORT CHARLOTTE -- Author Ella Kathryn Hendry Sandige, a member of the Hendry family, after which Hendry County was named, died here Saturday at the age of 81. Sandige grew up in Fort Myers. The daughter of former Lee County Schools Superintendent Harry Hendry, she graduated from Florida State University and went on to work as a public school teacher and reading specialist in Florida, Arizona and California. Hendry County bears the name of her great-grandfather Capt. Francis Asbury Hendry, a cattleman and legislator. LaBelle was named for his daughters. Sandige was a private person who dedicated her later years to her artistic pursuits, said her cousin, James "Harold" Hudson. She is best known for her book "Front Porch Stories," a narrative of the Hendry family, who were among the first settlers in the Peace River Basin. Sandige, who earned a master's degree from Arizona State University and served in the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps during World War II, also wrote a children's book, "Honeycomb," and was in the process of writing a cookbook, a book of poetry, and a book about the Everglades, when she died Saturday. Sandige was an accomplished painter whose work has been displayed at Temple University and the University of Alabama. "She was gifted in so many ways," Hudson said. "Her writing and painting were done at a time when most people would be sitting in their rocking chair contemplating their life." Sandige is survived by a son, Phillip B. Porter II, and four grandchildren, Phillip, Sharon, Lesley and Mary. She will be buried at Cool Springs Cemetery in Ashville, Ala.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - June 28, 1980 Annie G. Sands, 82, a resident of Fort Myers for the past 44 years, died in Atlanta, Ga. Friday afternoon. She was a retired school teacher, having taught in the high school in Fort Myers for the past 20 years. She was a member of the First Baptist Church and graduate of Florida Southern College. Surviving is her son, Williams Sands of Washington, D.C.; sisters, Mrs. Estelle Noble of Atlanta, Margaret Tarrer of Fort Myers; nieces, Mrs. Ross Swartsel of Fort Pierce, Mrs. Dwight Lamb of Lakeland; nephew, Joseph Tarrer, Jr. of Miami. The family requests that flowers please be ommitted and donations made to the Heart Fund. Funeral service will be held Monday at 10 a.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with the Rev. Frank Singleton officiating. Burial will be in Fort Myers Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Paul Harris, James Sapp, Travis Gresham, Dr. Parke Lewis, Bill Reynolds and Rex Gilliam. Honorary pallbearers will be Harry Fagan, George Whitehurst, Joe Moses,George Beemer, Mason Foshee, Ralph McWilliams, Harold Thompson and Dan Beall.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - December 21, 1965 The owner of a well drilling company died Monday after a half-ton counter-weight on the drill rig fell and hit him in the head. The well-driller, Charles W. Sands, 47, of 1668 Tennessee St., North Fort Myers, was rushed to Lee Memorial Hospital by an Immokalee ambulance but to no avail. Sands was the owner of Sands & Sons Well Drilling Co. He was working on a water well in the Immokalee area when the accident occurred. Further details were not available last night. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Betty Sandss, and sons, Larry, Charles, Steven, Kevin and Kim Sands of North Fort Myers; daughters, Miss Marsha Sands of Arlington, Va., Mrs. Sheila Lawon of Fort Myers, Marilyn Sands, Maureen Sands, Tammie Sands and Jaqueline Sands of North Fort Myers; one brother, Wyatt Sands of Alva; sisters, Mrs. Lois Hamm and Mrs. Oneeta Hamm of Naples, Mrs. Betty Ann O'Neil of West Palm Beach, and seven grandchildren. He was a veteran of World War II. Funeral arrangements will be announced by Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home. FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - December 22, 1965 Funeral service for Charles W. Sands, 47, of 1668 Tennessee St., North Fort Myers, will be held Friday at 2 p.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Rev. Gary Tompson officiating. Burial will be in Fort MyersCemetery.

Ten-Year-Old Boy Fatally Wounded in Shotgun Mishap Five 10-year-old boys and one of 13, the latter with a loaded shotgun, went "hunting: yesterday in North Fort Myers near their homes. The gun went off and Timmy Sands, 10, fell fatally wounded. He died an hour later while five doctors worked vainly to save him. The accident occurred as the boys walked single file along a dirt road about 100 yards from the new Highway 41 construction. Sherman Williams, 13, had his 410 shotgun. The other 10-year-olds with Timmy were Joe Bryant, Robert Kirkland, Jack Pelham and David Carpenter. Timmy, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Sands, was walking in front of Sherman although the latter said he had warned him to get away from the gun. Deputy Jimmy Hisler said that somehow Sherman jerked the weapon and it went off, a load of birdshot ripping through Timmy's right hand and into the right side of his chest. "Sherman, you didn't shoot me, did you?" the little boy cried as he collapsed to the ground, Sherman falling upon him in grief. Hisler said the other boys scattered in fright but Sherman quickly realized Timmy needed help and ran to nearby Pine Island Road. There he tried to flag down several cars but none stopped. Finally he threw himself onto the highway in the path of a car driven by Marshall Alford of Dunn Construction Co., the highway contractor, who stopped. When Sherman told him what had happened, Alford used his radio to call an ambulance. At Lee Memorial Hospital the five doctors and a staff of nurses worked over the boy. Five pints of blood were administered and a tube was inserted into his right lung through which air was pumped, but at 5 p.m. he died. Timmy, whose full name was Timothy John Sands, was a fifth grade student at J. Colin English School. Sands, a well driller, and his wife have 10 other children -- four sons, Emily Larry, Charles W. Jr., Steven Clelly and Kenneth Revis, and six daughters, Marsha Betty, Sheila Arline, Marilyn Sharlene, Maureen Raye, Tammy Nell and Jacqueline Ouida Sands. Timmy's grandmother is Mrs. Ouida Williams of Fort Myers. Funeral arrangements will be announced by the Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home. FORT MYERS PRESS - December 16, 1963 J. Colin English School Will Close For Boy's Funeral J. Colin English School will close at 1:30 p.m. today for the funeral of Timmy Sands, 10-year-old son of Mr. and mrs. Charles W. Sands of North Fort Myers, Supt. Robert N. Kreager announced yesterday. Timmy was wounded fatally by an accidental shotgun blast last Friday as he and several other youngsters were hunting near the north approach to the new bridge. He was a fifth grade student at the school. +++ Funeral services for Timothy J. Sands will be held today at 2 p.m. at Leo w. Engelhard Fuenral Home with George Cobb offficiating. Pallbearers will be Albert Heinkel, Henry Mix, Larry Browant, Sammy Moore, Gary Skinner and Evan Skinner. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press, Mar 11 2005-- Theresa Pottinger Sands, age 61, of Fort Myers, Florida passed away on Tuesday March 8, 2005 at Health Park Medical Center. Born in Fort Myers on August 16, 1943, Theresa was the daughter of the late George and Mila Honc Pottinger. Her family has been in the nursery business in Fort Myers and Bookelia since the 1920's. She graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1961. On September 17, 1961, Theresa married Raymond J. Sands Sr. of Miami, Florida and had five children together, Ray-Ray, Michael, Theresa, Steven and Tanya. Her husband preceded her in death in May 16, 1977. The family lived in West Palm Beach, Florida until relocating back to Fort Myers in 1990. Theresa was a licensed general contractor with the State of Florida, and continued in the family business operating Sands Sunset Vista Nursery with her three sons. Theresa was a faithful member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in downtown Fort Myers as well as donating to many of the area diocese. She participated in and sponsored many community activities including Edison Festival of Lights, Inc., Cypress Lake High School, and Rutenburg Little League. Theresa especially enjoyed watching her grandchildren's athletics and activities. She constantly put her family and friends feelings ahead of her own, until her untimely death. Theresa is survived by, her three sons and two daughters Raymond (CJ O'-Haver) Michael, Steven (Kim) Sands, Theresa (Michael Ficarro), and Tanya (Harris Wolin) and by her grandchildren; Anthony, Angela, Joseph, Raychel, Victoria, and Austin. Her brother Jerry and wife Sue Pottinger, sister Milla and husband Richard Vollinger, sister-in-law Bobbie and Sam Wainwright, and sister-in-law Ann and Rick Rapp also survive her. Though her life was cut short Theresa's memories will live in the hearts of her family and friends. We love you Ga. Mass of the Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 A.M. Saturday March 12, 2005 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Interment will follow in Ft. Myers City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 - 7:00 P.M. on Thursday 4:00 - 8:00 P.M. Friday at Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Thursday, March 3, 1960 William L. Sands, 76, a resident of 1668 Tennessee St., North Fort Myers, died Tuesday. He was the first male to be born in Alva. Survivors include two sons, Charles W. Sands, Fort Myers, and William Wyatt Sands, Alva; three daughters, Mrs. Ometta Hamm, Naples; Mrs. Annie Lois Hamm, Naples; Mrs. Betty Ann Page, Denver, Colo.; two sisters, Mrs. Della Walker, Fort Myers; Mrs. Frances Smith, Auburndale, Fla.; a brother, Herbert Sands, Punta Gorda; 26 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Services will be held Friday at 2 p.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Rev. James Daniels officiating. Pallbearers will be Ivan McCannon, Dave Bull, Kenneth Daniels, Nathan Walker, Coleman Miner and Dan English. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - June 7, 1951 William Langdon Sands, Sr., 63, died yesterday at Lee Memorial Hospital where he had been taken Sunday following a stroke. He was born in Georgia and came to Fort Myers in 1926. He was connected with Lee Motors for nearly 20 years and until his death he had been with Kingston Motors. A son, William S. Sands, Jr., is in the diplomatic service at Washington, D.C., and flew here Friday to be at the bedside. Sands was a member of the Masons, Elks, First Baptist Church and Men's Bible Class, Men's Garden Club and the Lee County democratic committee. He is survived by his wife, a retired teacher; his son; three sisters, Mrs. H.C. Timmer of Boston, Mrs. T. F. Dodd and Mrs. T. A. Croghan of Charleston, S.C., and a brother, Charles L. Sands of Pompano. Funeral services will be held today at 2 p.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Rev. James E. Byler officiating. Pallbearers will be Joe Moses, John Bowen, Eddie Johnson, Harry Fagan, L. F. Rutledge and James A. Franklin, Sr. Honorary pallbearers will be Ralph Mcwilliams, Fred Durre, Buster Hill, Capt. B. C. Fowler, H. A. Littlejohn, Don Drake and Carl Hanton. Friends may call at the funeral home until the services. Burial will be in the Fort Myers Cemetery.

MIAMI NEWSPAPER, May 1927 - Funeral service for Adolphe Phillip Santini , 87, who died Wednesday at the home of his daughter, 138 NW 36th Street will be conducted from the Jesu Catholic church at 9 am Friday. Burial will be in Miami City cemetery. Mr. Santini was the son of Phillipe Armand Santini of Tomino, Corsica, and Mary Frances Perera of Charleston, SC. He was born in New Orleans. He came to Miami in 1900. He is survived by three sons; Phillip Bernard, Lorenzo C., and Joseph C, and three daughters; Mrs. J. C. Botts, Mrs. R. M. Brion, and Mrs. J. J. Chafneaux. Combs funeral home has charge of arrangements.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, June 17, 1947- Mrs. Elmo (Alice) Santini, 30, died early yessterday morning after a long illness. She had made her home at Fort Myers Beach for a number of years. She was born Sept. 2, 1916 in Jacksonville. Surviving are her husband, Elmo Santini, a daughter, Genevieve, age seven years, a son Elmo jr., age five, all of Fort Myers Beach; her father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Bartleson jr., of Houston, Texas, a sister, Mrs. J. R. Hill, San Antonio, a brother, Charles Bartleson, Houston. Services will be held at the Spooner and Engelhardt funeral home Thursday at 2 p.m. with Father James J. O'Riordan officiating. Pallbearers will be Frank Brown, Porter Bartleson, Godfrey Santini, Nick Santini, Bert Draughon and Buck Armeda. Honorary pallbearers will be Honey Bartleson, Conray Kelly, Charlie Green, Brown Taylor, Dr. Fred Bartleson and Dr. Ernest Bostleman. Interment will be in the Fort Myers Cemetery.

FORT KYERS NEWS-PRESS, undated Mrs. Carmela M. Santini, 82, of 232 Ohio Ave., Fort Myers Beach, died Monday. A native of Chokoloskee Island, she had lived here for the past 31 yars. coming from Miami and was a member of the Church of the Ascension Catholic Church. She is survived by her husband, Guy F. Santini, two daughters, Mrs. Charles Haule, of Peacedale, R.I., and Mrs. Camille Taylor, of Fort Myers Beach, and a son, Paul F. Santini, of Fort Myers Beach. Her brother-in-law, Leonard Santini, is a prominent developer of Fort Myers Beach, including Leonardo Arms and the Santini Shopping Plaza. She is also survived by two brothers, Theodore Santana, of Miami, and Joseph Chefnaux, of Fort Myers beach, a sister, Mrs. Al White of Frostproof; five grandchildren and one great grandchild. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by the Harvey Funeral Home. Friends may call on the Funeral Home after noon today.

FORT MYERS NEWS PRESS, AUGUST 7, 1970- Funeral Service for Elmo C. Santini, 59, of 167 Primo Drive, Fort Myers Beach, will be held Monday at 3 pm at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Father Allman officiating. Pallbearers will be: James E. Hendry, Jr., Travis Cowart, Carlton Thompson, Dave Green, and Reece Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be: Cecil Murphy, Frank Brown, Mr. Carpenter, Warren Wiltshire, N.A. Cunningham, Sheriff Flanders Thompson, Herman Hastings, and Britt Pomeroy. Interment will in in Fort Myers Cemetery.A rosary wake will be held tonight at 8 o'clock at the funeral home.

Ft. Myers News Press, Friday, Jan. 16, 1959 - Godfrey P. Santini, 64, a businessman at Fort Myers Beach since 1938, died of a heart attack yesterday noon just before an ambulance arrived to take him to a hospital.Santini became ill about 11 am and went to the home of his brother, Nicholas R. at 134 Virginia Ave. Dr. James E. Schutt was called, gave him medication and called a Fort Myers physician to arrange to have a cardiogram made at Lee Memorial Hospital. Santini succumbed when an ambulance was enroute for him. He fought overseas in World War I, was a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Fort Myers and the Knights of Columbus.Santini established a business as Godfrey Santini, Realtor, a few years ago after selling Godfreys Restaurant. A commercial fisherman when a young man, he started the Kleen Fish Co. at the Beach in 1938. He also operated a garage at one time.Surviving are his wife, the former Daisy Galvin, Greenwich, Conn., daughters, Rita at Marquette University and Joan at Fort Myers High School: sons, Godfrey Jr., 13 and John, 11; brothers, Leonard and Guy F. and Nicholas, all of the Beach; and a sister, Mrs. Dennis Kelly, Fort Myers. The Santini home is at 169 San Carlos Blvd.Santini was born on Chokoloskee Island, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Tino Santini. The family moved to Miami when he was six and he received most of his education in Key West. He was active in civic affairs at the Beach. Associates in his realty business were Ralph Davis an Randolph Highbaugh. Santini became mildly ill Monday night but it was considered an attack of indigestion.Funeral arrangements will be announced by the Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News Press, Sunday, Nov. 27, 1983- Captain Guy F. Santini, 93, of Fort Myers Beach, died Friday. He was a life-long resident of Florida and a resident of FortMyers Bach since 1943. Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Camille Smith, Bonita Springs; one son, Paul F. Santini, Fort Myers Beach; one brother, Nick Santini, Vidor, Texas; and one granddaughter, Robin Smith. The Mass of Christian Burial will be said Monday at 10:00 am at the Catholic Church of the Ascension, Fort Myers Beach with the Rev. Eugene McCarthy officiating. Local interment will follow. There will be no visitation at the funeral home. Harvey Funeral Home, Beach Chapel, 20202 San Carlos Blvd. is in charge of arrangements.

Fort Myers News Press, Dec. 11, 1993- Hazel Spencer Santini, 77, of Fort Myers, died Dec. 9th at her home, 1824 Paul St., Ft. Myers. She was born Nov. 17, 1816 in Jacksonville, Fla. She moved to Ft. Myers when she was 11, graduating from Fort Myers High School in 1934. She attended Florida State University and was a member of Phi Mu Sorority. She was married in 1935 to Joseph G. Santini who was born in Fort Myers and played football for Fort Myers High School. He preceded her in death in 1983. They moved to Key West, Fla. at the end of WWII where she retired from teaching at St. Marys Catholic Church in 1979. While a resident of Key West, she belonged to the Key West Garden Club and the DAV auxiliary. She moved back to Fort Myers in 1979 and has resided at Paul St. since that time. She belonged to the Royal Palm Garden Club in Fort Myers. She was be honored Dec.16th as a life time member of the State Counsel of Garden Clubs. She was a member of the Le County Pioneer Club and St. Cecelias Catholic Church. She is survived by her two daughters, Mrs. Sandra (George) Smith of Miramar, Fla., her children, George-Ann Smith Ely, Kevin Smith, and Barbara Smith Cochrane, and Mrs. Martha (Rod) Stants and her daughter Christy Bachman. her survivors also include the children of her deceased son, Joseph G. Santini, Jr.: Joann Santini Rodriguez of Hollywood, Fla., and Jolynn Santini or Seabrook, Texas. She was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Tiffany Bachman. She has six great-grandchildren. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Cecelias Catholic Church at 11:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 13. Friends will be received after the service at 1824 Paul St. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Lifelink of Southwest Fla.

Ft. Myers News Press, Tuesday, August 14, 1951- Joseph Cyril Santini, 72, Fort Myers Beach commercial fisherman, died yesterday of a heart attack at a Tampa hospital were he had been taken August 4 for a lung operation. Santini was one of six * sons of a family who pioneered in the Ten Thousand Islands south of here. He was born at Chokoloskee on *June 15, 1879, and spent almost his whole life as a fisherman up to the time of his last illness. He came to Lee County in his early twenties. During his youth, he served brief periods as captain of yachts and guide boats. Members of his family said he did not miss more than 15 days of fishing in the last 50 years. Surviving are his wife*; five children, Grinnell, Elmo, Blanche, Frances, and Mrs. S. J. Johnson Jr.; 5 brothers, Nick, Victor, Leonard, Guy, and Godfrey; and six grandchildren, Kristin Johnson, Sandra, Martha, Joe, Buddy, and Genevieve Santini. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by the Leo Engelhardt Funeral Home. Rosary services will be held at 8 pm tomorrow at the funeral home. Corrections by submitter : One of 7 sons- first son died at age 16. Birth month is May, not June. Wife is Margaret.

Ft. Myers News Press, March 29, 1969 - Joseph G. Santini, Jr., 27, of Key West, died by drowning Sunday, March 23. The body was recovered Thursday. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. J.G.(Grinnell) Santini Sr. of Key West. He is survived by his wife, Juanita; twin sons*, Hector and Homer, and a daughter*, Joanne, all of Key West; his grandmother, Mrs. Morning Fouts of North Fort Myers; sisters, Mrs. Sandra Smith of Hialiah and Miss Martha Santini of Key West. A mass will be said at St. Bedes Catholic Church, Key West, at 10 am today. Graveside services will be held at 5:30 pm today in Memorial Gardens, Fort Myers, with the rev. J. Normand Hardy of the Church of the Ascension, Fort Myers Beach, officiating. Pallbearers will be: A.J. (Doc) Townley, Jr., S. J. Johnson, Jr., John Santini, Harold Santini, Mitchel Santini, and Nick Santini.

Ft.Myers, Tuesday, Oct. 22, 1957 - Josephine J. Santini, 73, a resident of Fort Myers all her life, died at her home on 1615 Bessie Ave. yesterday. She was born in North Fort Myers, July 3, 1884. She was a member of the Church of Gold on Palm Beach Blvd. Surviving are a son, Harold Santini; a daughter, Mrs. Marie Colvin, Fort Myers; two brothers, Frank Brown, Fort Myers, and Jim Brown, Naples; a sister, Mrs. L. G. Price of St. Petersburg, and five grandchildren. Funeral service will be held Saturday at 3 pm at the Church of Gold with Rev. Clyde Ogle officiating. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery. Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home is in charge.

SW Florida Historical Society undated, - Lawrence C. Santini, 77, of Key Largo, a native of Lee County, died Monday, He was a lifelong commercial fisherman.Mr. Santini is survived by his wife, Shirley of Key Largo; three sons, Dr. Douglas Santini of Cape Coral, Richard Santini of Galveston, Texas, and Paul Santini of Marathon; and three step-daughters, Hollis, Donna, and Denise Adams; five grandchildren, Lawrence, Lisa, Rodney, Sadie, and Laurie Santini, and three great-grandchildren. Graveside funeral services will be conducted on Saturday at 10 am at Fort Myers Cemetery with the Rev. Thomas Anglim officiating. The family will receive on Friday from 6-7 pm at the Harvey-Engelhardt Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd.

DR. LEO H. SANTINI - Funeral Card, Alexander Funeral Home, East Chapel, Evansville, Ind. May Jesus have mercy on the soul of Dr. Leo H. Santini Born: March 3, 1925 Died: January 22, 1983 Funeral: January 25, 1983 9 am; St. Benedict Church Burial: Maple Grove Cemetery Boonville, Indiana

Ft. Myers News Press, March 25, 1947 - Leonard Santini, 20* year old merchant marine veteran and son of Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Santini of Fort Myers Beach, was instantly killed yesterday when his gun went off accidentally as he stepped into a fishing boat near Everglades. The boys father was a witness to the accident.The boy had gone with his father and six or eight other boats on a fishing trip around Pavilion Key off Everglades. The group stopped at the key and young Santini took his gun and went ashore for a look around. Returning to the boat, he placed his gun aboard and then climbed in. As he did so, the gun somehow went off and the charge inflicted fatal injuries.One of Santinis best friends*, Allen Kelly, received similar fatal injuries, near Fort Myers Beach almost three months ago to the day. Santini was a member of last years Green Wave boxing team. The boy is survived by his parents, two brothers, Grinnell and Elmo Santini, and three sisters, Mrs. S. J. Johnson, and Blanche and Frances Santini. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Funeral arrangements will be in charge of Lawrence A. Powell and will be announced later. * Corrections by submitter , 19 years old at the time. Allen Kelly was cousin.

Ft. Myers News Press, June 12, 1917- DEATH OF MRS. LILLIAN SANTINI - Body will be sent to Sanibel tomorrow where burial will take place. Announcement of the death of Mrs. Lillian Santini, wife of Godfrey Santini, which occurred about 1 oclock this afternoon at the residence of Tom Williams on Cottage Street, will be received with shock by her many friends in this city. Mrs. Santinis death was most sudden, she having been in apparent good health, almost up to the time she passed away. Uremic poison was the cause of death. The deceased was a young woman with an unusually bright and happy disposition, she having a sunny smile for all, and she never seemed happier than doing some little act of kindness for her fellows.Deceased was barely 17 years of age, having been born at Sanibel, October 19, 1900. She leaves besides her husband, her father, Eugene Shannahan. The body has been taken in charge by the Carl F. Roberts Co. an will be prepared for burial by the side of her mother at Sanibel to which point.......(article copy ended)

Ft. Myers, Tuesday, Jan 16, 1962 - Mrs. Lilly V. Santini, 69, of 2168 Johnson St., died Monday. She was a lifetime resident of Fort Myers. Survivors include her husband, Lorenzo Santini, one son, Lawrence Santini, Key Largo; one brother, Basantia Armeda, Fort Myers; grandchildren, Douglas Santini, Ricky Santini, Fort Myers, and Paul Santini, Key Largo. She was a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Funeral service will be held Wednesday at 9:30 am at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery. Rosary service will be held tonight at 7:30 pm at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press June 13, 2009 Lisa Marie Santini, age 38, passed away unexpectedly on June 8 in Albany, Georgia where she has resided for the last ten years. Lisa grew up in Fort Myers and attended the Lee County Public Schools.She will be missed by her daughter, Taylor, parents Dr. Douglas Santini, Dr. Mary Santini, brother and wife, Lawrence and Lorie Santini, stepmother Vickie Santini and the many pets she so lovingly cared for. Her Aunt Helen Bartley, Aunt Margaret Dea and cousins Francesca and Vanessa Dea are also sad survivors.Lisa now joins in eternal rest her paternal and maternal grandparents and her Uncle Babe and Uncle Ricky. A private funeral service will be held at a later date.

Ft.Myers News Press, Monday, March 11, 1963 - Lorenzo Santini, 81, a resident of 1305 Johnson Street, (Fort Myers) died Sunday in Homestead. He is survived by a son, Lawrence Santini of Key Largo, and a brother, Joe Santini of Miami. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News Press, Tuesday, May 2, 1967 - Mrs. Nell Santini, 77, resident of 85 Mound Road, Fort Myers Beach, died at her residence Monday afternoon. She had lived in Lee County for the past 60 years. Survivors include her husband, Leonard Santini; one daughter, Mrs. Delores Weidman, Columbia, S.C.; cousin, Mrs. Grace Wiles; nieces, Mrs. Thalma Sweeting, Mrs. Ira Thompson, Key West, Mrs. Robert Futral, Stuart, and Mrs. Clarice Armithage, Tampa, and eight grandchildren. She was a member of the Catholic Church of the Ascension, Fort Myers Beach. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home.

Fort Myers Beach Bulletin - Thursday, July 12, 1984 - Word has been received here of the death of Nicholas R. Santini, 91, the last of the famous Santini brothers who wrote their familys name into the pages of southwest Florida history with courage and industry. Mr. Santini died at Vidor, Texas on June 4, 1984, where he and his wife, Gertrude, had moved only months ago. Just before his departure for that far shore the Bulletin carried an interview  with the longtime beach resident as he sat in his yard still fashioning the fishing nets which gave him so much pleasure. Growing up just outside the present Everglades City, Nich had always enjoyed the test of the sea. His tales of the early years in this area never failed to fascinate his listeners and the Bulletins young reporter was sorry to see him ship out for a new harbor. Fort Myers Beach will never be the same again. He reported. Now that would appear to be the case, yet the Santini legend is etched deeply into Lee Countys history and that must continue after him. Nicholas is survived by his wife, Gertrude, of Vidor, and a son, Herbert C. Pope. Mr. Santini is also survived by five grandchildren and four great-grand children.

Fort Myers News Press - Thursday, April 29, 1915- AGED RESIDENT PASSES AWAY NICHOLAS SANTINI SUCCUMBS TO BRIEF ILLNESS - SERVICE AT NINE A.M. FRIDAY - Nicholas (Tino) Santini, one of the oldest residents of this city, passed away at 7:15 this morning at the home of his son, Victor Santini, on Cottage Street, his death following an illness of brief duration. Mr. Santini, who was 70 years of age, was taken ill last Saturday night will visiting among relatives at Boca Grande, being brought to Fort Myers Sunday morning in a critical condition.Besides numerous relatives in Fort Myers and other Lee County points, Mrs. Santini is survived by six sons and one daughter, who are: Nicholas Jr., Guy, Leonard, Godfrey, Victor, and Cyril Santini of Fort Myers and Boca Grande, and Mrs. Olive Kelly of Key West. Funeral services and mass will be held at 9 oclock Friday morning at St. Xavier Catholic Church, Rev. Father Latiolias officiating. The Carl F. Roberts Co. conducted the funeral.

Ft. Myers News Press, Wednesday, Oct. 11, 1978- Naples - Norman F. Santini, 67, or 64 Buttonwood Lane, died Monday. He had been of resident of Naples since 1946, coming from Fort Myers, where he was born. Since 1949, he was active in catching, training, and selling porpoises for sea aquariums around the world. He was a veteran of World War II, a member of the Elks Club, BPOE Lodge 2010 of Naples, and the Pioneer Club of Fort Myers. He is survived by his wife, Wilma of Naples; four sons, Donald, Michael, and Pat all of Naples, and Robert in South Carolina; and two brothers, Milton Santini of Marco island and Leo Santini of Evansville, Ind. Funeral will be Friday at 3 pm at the Earl G. Hodges Funeral Chapel, with Monte Seidel, branch president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latte Day Saints, officiating.

Fort Myers News Press, Oct. 4, 1959 Naples, Oct.3 - Funeral Services will be held Monday morning for Airman 3rd Class Paul Stanton Santini of Naples who died in the Lackland Air Force Base Hospital at San Antonio, Texas, Sept. 29. Santini, 20, was a Naples high School 1957 graduate. He is survived by his father, Norman Santini, Naples; his mother, Elsie Smith, Tampa; a brother, Donald Santini, serving in Hawaii with the Air Force; three half-brothers, Richard, Michael, and Patrick, Naples; a grandmother, Bessie Gentry, Fort Myers; and a grandfather, Victor Santini, Tavenier. Rosary services will be conducted Sunday at 7:30 pm at the Pittman Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral Services will be held Monday morning at 11 am at St. Ann's Roman Catholic Church with Rev. John Osxajca, officiating. Interment will follow in Crestlawn Memorial Gardens with full military honors accorded by an honor guard from Homestead Air Force base. Pallbearers will include Laban Lebuff, Charles Lebuff, Richard Beatty, Joseph Hunter, Dale Lyon, and Ray Smith. Friends may call at the Pittman Home Sunday from 2 - 9 pm.

Ft. Myers, Thursday, March 25, 1954 - Phillip Bernard Santini, 81, a resident of Fort Myers for 70 years until he moved to Miami in 1946, died at Miami, Wednesday. he was a boat captain and fishing guide here. He was a guide for the late Thomas A. Edison for many years. Surviving are his wife, Josephine Santini; a son, Harold P. Santini; a daughter, Mrs. Marie J. Colvin, all of Fort Myers; two brothers, Lorenzo Santini, Fort Myers, and Joseph Santini, Miami; three sisters, Mrs. Fannie Chefaneux, Mrs. Angela Botts, and Mrs. Rosina Sawyer, all of Miami; and several grandchildren. He was a member of the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by Leo W. Engelhardt.

Ft. Myers News Press, Sunday, Nov. 7, 1982, Philip Harold Santini, 69, of 4394 McCormick Street, died Friday, He was a life-time resident of Fort Myers.He is survived by his wife Ruth Eleanor Santini; two sons, Mitch Santini of Orange, CA., and Joseph Santini of Fort Myers; two daughters, Beth Bronson of Saudi Arabia, and Cynthia Erickson of Orange, CA., a sister Marie Gilleon of Fort Myers, and four grandchildren.Funeral services will be conducted Monday, at 10 am, from the chapel of the Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd, with Rev. Harmom Roberts of the Marsh Avenue Church of God and Rev. Mark Little of the Calvary Temple Assembly of God, officiating.Burial will be in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens. Friends may call at the funeral home today from 5-7 pm. Pallbearers will be Dawson C. McDaniels, Rick Nielson, Alan Daniels, Tim Powers, Raymond Martin, and Bill Mott. Honorary bearers will be Dawson McDaniels, Willard Osborn, Delbert Osborn, Ned Carde?, Herman Hastings, Jewel Mott, S.J. Johnson, and Maylon Hetrick.

Phillipe Armand Santini, Diary of Adolphus Santini, Chokoloskee, Florida: 25 October 1882 Note: Adolphus and Tino were sons of Phillipe. These families were living on Chokoloskee Island at the time of these diary entries. Saturday, October 21, 1882: Father took sick. October 22-24 entries: Father still sick. Wednesday, October 25, 1882: Father died at half past four this afternoon. Thursday, October 26, 1882: Made a coffin and buried father. Hired Davis and Elbeck to dig the grave. Additional information: Phillipe was born in 1804 in Tomino, Corsica. Phillipe and Mary Santini had six children: Alonzo P., Adolphus P., Santino Nicholas (Tino), Mary Magdalene, Mary Margaret (Dorinda), and Mary Angela.

Fort Myers News-Press, 8 Apr 2006 -- Ruth Eleanor McIntire Pagh Santini passed away Sunday, April 2, 2006, after a brief illness. She was born April 19, 1916, in Bradford, Pennsylvania, to Ernest and Ruby McIntire. Her family moved to Florida in 1924, and she graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1934. She was married to the late Lt. Col. William S. Pagh, of Fort Myers, and subsequently the late Philip Harold Santini, of Fort Myers. She was preceded in death by her sisters, June McIntire Arnold and Phyllis McIntire Byrd. She is survived by her sister, Barbara McIntire Smith, of Fort Myers, four children, Beth Bronson, of Dallas, Texas, Cynthia Santini Erickson, Mitch Santini and Joseph Santini, of Fort Myers, eight grandchildren, Lindsey Wehner, Amy Alderdice and William Bronson, Dallas, Texas, and Tait Erickson, Philip, Nicole, Nicholas and Kelsy Santini, all of Fort Myers. She leaves nine great-grandchildren, Tyler, Tory and Stephanie Wehner, Aaron and Alexandra Alderdice, and Griffin, Ashton, Emma and Olivia Bronson, of Dallas, Texas. Final arrangements are by the National Cremation Society with inurnment at Memorial Gardens in Fort Myers.

Ft. Myers News Press, Tuesday, May 2, 1967 - Victor M. Santini, 84, died Saturday at Marathon. He was a resident of Fort Myers Beach until recently. He is survived by three sons, Leo of Evansville, Ind., Norman of Naples and Milton of Marathon; three brothers, Leonard, Nick and Guy of Fort Myers Beach, and a sister, Mrs. Dennis Kelly of Fort Myers; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Rosary service will be said at 7:30 pm today at the Martin-Vrague Funeral Home in Marathon. Burial will be in Palm Memorial Cemetery, Homestead, on Wednesday.

St Petersburg Times Oct 18, 2007 SAPP, Bill M. passed away on Oct. 12 at the age of 92. Born Dec. 23, 1914, in Ft. Myers, FL, to the late Ira Sapp and Eunice Sapp Raymond, he was a third generation Floridian. He met and married his beautiful wife Marguerite Collins, of Sebring when, as a U.S. Army reservist, he was stationed in Avon Park and she was working in the county tax collector's office. She predeceased him earlier this year. Sapp had a distinguished military career, joining the Army at age 17 during the height of the Depression. He spent three years as a rodman on an Army mapmaking survey crew. During World War II, he participated in 18 beach assault landings in the Pacific Theater. He served two decades with the U.S. Air Force and rose in rank from private to chief warrant officer. He ran ground survey crews around the world that helped the military map the uncharted wilderness. From the tropical jungles of Brazil to the frozen tundra of Greenland, throughout the South Pacific's tropical islands to the deserts of Ethiopia and Somalia, Sapp's crews often set up electronic ground stations-lugged by hand, boat, donkey or camel-on craggy mountain peaks. He was extremely modest about his military accomplishments and the dangers he encountered. Sapp was an avid horticulturist. He received his early vocational experience working for Thomas Alva Edison as a field hand on his estate. His love of plants was enhanced by his military travels where he saw indigenous vegetation. When he retired from the Air Force after 31 years, he obtained a horticulture degree from Pinellas Vocational Technical Institute and joined the Pinellas Park Department as the county's horticulturist. His legacy is the thousands of trees and plants in the county's parks and roadways. He was particularly committed to creating parks that visually impaired individuals could enjoy and emphasized the use of plants that could be distinguished by smell. He also believed in using native plants for landscaping. Sapp was also an avid traveler. He and his wife worked for the major cruise lines; she as the social director and he as a casino blackjack dealer. They were bridge enthusiasts and he played daily achieving Life Master ranking. He was an expert poker player and even four months before his death, he was playing several times a week at St. Petersburg's Derby Lane. The southern gentleman was always elegantly attired. He enjoyed entertaining family and friends and being updated with loved ones' news and events. He is survived by his sister Mary Ann Solomon, Ft. Myers; his sister-in-law Ruth Sapp, Miami; his nephews Larry Sapp, Blairsville, GA, Edward Sapp, Gainesville, Ronald E. Solomon, Ft. Lauderdale; and his cousins Julia Pearl Keene and Arthur (Junior) Barron, both of Ft. Myers, and Jewel Yeomans McDowell, Bradenton. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, Oct. 20, 2007, at Moss-Feaster Funeral Homes, 693 S. Belcher Road, Clearwater, at 10:30 am. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA, Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2007 at 3 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Air Force Aid Society (AFAS), 241 18th Street South, Ste. 202, Arlington, VA 22202, or the National Kidney Foundation, 1040 Woodcock Road, Ste. 119, Orlando, FL 32803. Moss Feaster Funeral Home Belcher Road Chapel 727-562-2070

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, April 20, 2007--Birdie M. Sapp, 68, Of Buckingham passed away Thursday. She was a resident for the past 56 years formally of Ohio. She is survived by her daughters, Melanie (Donnie) Fewell, & Melissa (Chris) Dean; sons, Perry Sapp, Rick (Margaret) Sapp, grandson Byron Sapp, great grandson Hunter Sapp, brothers Tom & Marion Santin, sister April Richardson. Funeral Service 2:00PM Monday April 23, 2007 at Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home 12777 State Road 82. Interment will follow in Lee Memorial Park. Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home 334-4880

Harold Sapp

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, August 1, 1937 - Ira Sapp, 49, widely-known furniture dealer, died yesterday from a heart ailment after a short illness. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Eunice Sapp; two sons, Howard and Bill; a daughter, Miss Mary A. Sapp and a grandson, Larry D. Sapp. Funeral services will be held at 4 o'clock this afternoon at the residence on Hendry street with the Rev. E. B. Evans officiating. Pallbearers will be Walton Gilliam, O. d. Garner, R. V. Lee, Dewitt Farabee, Wiliam Shiver, John Fohl and Supt. Harry F. Hendry. Lawrence A. Powell is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Sapp came to Fort Myers 35 years ago as a young man. for more than 15 years he was engaged inthe furniture business here. He was a member of the Baptist church and of the Masonic order.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Monday, October 11, 1999 SARAH SAPP Mrs. Sarah Tooke Sapp of Fort Myers, FL, and Franklin, NC, died Friday morning, September 24, 1999, in Atlanta, GA, at the home of her daughter, Tomi. Sarah was a direct descendant of Captain Manuel A. Gonzalez, first settler of Fort Myers, and the daughter of Charlton Taylor Tooke and Hazel Irene Morris. She had two brothers, Charlton Taylor Tooke III (Bud), and the late Joseph Clyatt Tooke (Joe). During her early life, she was active as a dancer, performing locally and for private residents such as Ms. Jetty Burroughs of the famed Burroughs typewriter family. After graduation from Fort Myers High School, she worked briefly at the courthouse before meeting and marrying Clifton Sapp. They had three children: Tomi Irene, David Clifton, and Alan Kimberly. As a parent, Sarah was active in the PTA and volunteered for the American Cancer Society. She was also a life-long member of the Pioneer Club of Fort Myers. After the death of her husband, she built a home in Franklin, NC. The community where she lived provided many dear friendships and an opportunity through her new social life to reconnect with her love of dancing. She will be remembered always for her love and knowledge of nature, native flowering plants and birds, and the knowledge and passion for it that she passed along. Her daughter, two sons, a brother, five nieces, two nephews, three sisters-in-law, a daughter-in-law, three aunts, several cousins, and four grandchildren survive her. The family wishes to thank Peachtree Hospice in Atlanta for all their incredible support for Sarah and her two familial caretakers during a very desperate time. A memorial service will be held Monday, November 1, 1999, at Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33916. The family requests memorial donations to be sent to any nature foundation or to the following: Hospice Preferred Choice Fndn. (Peachtree Hospice) 3600 DeKalb Technology Parkway Atlanta, GA 30340 Hope Hospice 9470 Health Park Circle Fort Myers, FL 33908 Reach, Inc. Franklin, NC (a shelter for raped and/or battered women and children)

Fort Myers News-Press Nov 25, 2003 After an extended illness, Ft. Myers, Florida pioneer, Sara Hattaway Sapp, died November 23, 2003 at the Hope Hospice House in Ft. Myers. Born in Milan, Georgia, on October 24, 1915, Sara was the daughter of Harvey Walker Hattaway and Eulalia Clark Hattaway Cannon and the stepdaughter of James A. Cannon, Sr. She moved with her grandparents, John M. and Mattilu Clark, her mother, sister, Lalai and extended family to Ft. Myers in 1924. Sara was graduated from Ft. Myers High School in 1933, and Florida Southern College in 1936. She taught at Gwynne Institute elementary school from 1936 to 1941. Sara married James Austin Sapp on July 4, 1937. She helped James and son, Jim in the family business Tice Foodway, Tice, Florida, until illness forced her to retire in 1994. James preceded her in death on September 1, 1995. She is survived by four children, Lali Hamric (Curtis), Lee O'Hare, (Russell), Lyn Atherton, (Brooks) and James Medford Sapp (Roxanne). In addition to her children, she is survived by her grandchildren, Cynthia Fetterhoff (Charles) Chris Aloia, (Iris), Gary DeVore, (Kelli) Kim Dean (Brian) and Ginny Sapp; several step grandchildren, several great and step great grandchildren, her devoted, loving sister and best friend, Lalai Stout, Aunt Margaret Clark Bartleson, many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Since 1997, Sara resided at HealthPark Care Center, where she was loved and watched over by her extended family there, among those she leaves there, who were primary to her needs are Carol Nicotra, LPN Supervisor, Mary (Esther) Battle, FiFi Berluis and her roommate, Gloria McCarty. During her lifetime, Sara was an active member of the community. She belonged to the First Baptist Church in Ft. Myers where she was a past president of the Women's Missionary Union, taught Sunday and Bible School, the Girl's Auxiliary, and directed the Cradle Roll and Nursery Department for many years. She was on the Flower Committee of the church, which created all the floral arrangements for the various church services and events. She was a charter member and past officer of the Ft. Myers Collector's Club, Edison Garden Club, Ft. Myers Community Club, and the Daughters of the American Revolution. She taught Junior Garden Club for many years as well as serving as a substitute teacher for the Lee County School System. Sara and James were members of the Royal Palm Yacht and the Cypress Lake Country Clubs. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the First Baptist Church, 1735 Jackson Street, Ft. Myers, FL. 33901, the Southwest Florida Community Foundation, P.O. Box 9326, Ft. Myers, FL. 33902 or Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Ft. Myers, FL. 33908. Rev. William Smith, Pastor, will facilitate a memorial service at the First Baptist Church on Second Street in Ft. Myers at 11:00 AM on November 26, 2003. Arrangements by Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd., Ft. Myers, FL.

Fort Myers News-Press, 3 Nov 2005-- Thelma Faye Sapp went home to be with her Lord on Thursday, October 20, at the age of 93. She was a life long resident of Buckingham and a member of Morningstar Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Sapp and son, Harold Eugene Sapp. She has four surviving children; Hilton Sapp, Herbert Sapp, Audrey Sapp Solomon (George), and Harvey Jack Sapp (Fred Griffith) all of Buckingham. There are fourteen grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. She had many, many friends and acquaintances. She was known and loved by all who crossed her path. Visitation will be on Friday, Nov. 4 from 5-7 PM at Lee Memorial Park. Funeral services will be on Saturday, November 5 at Morningstar Baptist Church (formerly Russell Park) at 11:00 AM with Rev. Wayne Beeler officiating. Entombment will follow the service at Lee Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Harold Solomon, Tim Solomon, Terry Solomon, Joshua Hanchey, T.J. Weinstock, Joshua Solomon, Curtis Solomon, Perry Sapp and Rick Sapp.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - January 4, 1946-- Funeral services for Mrs. Tommy Z. Sapp, who died at her home Tuesday morning, will be held tomorrow afternoon at 3 o'clock in the chapel of Lawrence A. Powell with the Rev. J. B. Culpepper officiating. The following will act as pallbearers: Active, Roy McDaniels, Leon D. Smith, Gene Odom, W. H. Briggs, A. P. Byrd and Roy Cochran. Honorary, Grover C. Gatlin, L. H. Furen, Godfrey Lawrence, James O. Connor, Glenn Gibson. O. T. Tuttle, W. R. Hauser, Norman V. Joy, Jacks Harvey and C. H. Collins. Interment will be in the Fort Myers Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Sunday, Sept. 25, 1932--John Stephen Sargent, 86, Estero writer and member of the Koreshan Unity, died there Thursday afternoon. He had lived in Estero for 38 years and had been a member of the Unity for 40, contributing regularly to the Estero Eagle and Flaming Sword. Mr. Sargent is survived by three daughters and three sons, Paul T. Sargent, Mrs. Opal Hodges and John Sargent of Charleston, Ill., Mrs. Coral T. Keen and Samuel Sargent, Los Angeles, Cal., and Mrs. Pearl Cox of Charleston, who has been attending her father.

FORT MYERS PRESS - November 23, 1923 The funeral of Charles. H. Satchell, who died early yesterday morning, was held this afternoon at 3:30 o'clock at the home, 416 Hoople St. The Rev. J. A. Ansley, pastor of the First Baptist Church, conducted the services. Burial took place in the Fort Myers Cemetery.

Miami Herald Tribune Dec 27, 2006 SATCHELL, HAROLD C. "HAL", 84, longtime resident of Hollywood passed into the hands of the Lord on 12/22/06 at the age of 84. He was a 1941 graduate of Fort Myers Senior High, Fort Myers, Florida. A graduate of UF law school in 1950, he began his banking career in Phoenix, AZ and moved to Hollywood in 1954 to start the Trust Dept at First Nat'l Bank of Hollywood where he rose to President until 1984. During that time Hal was very active in community affairs and in 1967 was instrumental in funding the Albert E. and Birdie W. Einstein Fund, Inc. His compassion, understanding and foresight formed the philosophies of the Funds giving policies today. Serving on the Einstein Board is an honor when you see the tremendous good the Einstein Legacy has created. To be entrusted with this honor and to pass it on to others left Hal with a great sense of accomplishment. He was so proud of this appointment and took it very seriously. The present Einstein Board will truly miss him and the Fund will go on in perpetuity. While a passionate tennis player, himself, he took great pride in bringing to David Park professional tennis in 1967 with World Ranked Tennis Players Pancho Gonzalez and Rod Laver among others, paving the way for the Lipton and now NASDAQ Tennis Tournaments. Hal was a loving father and grandfather who lived a good life, who valued integrity and believed in doing what was right. Hal is survived by his loving wife of 58 years Maxine Satchell, daughter Melloe Nash (Brad), sons Craig, Deven (Maria), and Tayman Satchell. Loving sister Betty Jean Graham, and by his grandchildren, Brittney Runnion (Andrew), Megan Nash, Brandon Nash, Dylan, Brett, and Shannon Satchell. His sister Audrey and two sons, Garth and Brett predeceased him. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Eternal Home Ministries, 4231 DeSoto Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33905, a Christian transitional center for men and women who are homeless and/ or suffering from substance abuse. Visitation will be held Thursday, 500pm - 800pm at the funeral home. Funeral Services will be held Friday, 1100am at Sheridan Hills Baptist Church, 3751 Sheridan St., Hollywood. On-line condolences to www.fredhunters.com. Fred Hunter Funeral Home 6301 Taft Street Hollywood, FL 33024 (954) 989-1550 To visit this Guest Book Online, go to www.MiamiHerald.com/obituaries.

Caloosa Belle -- Juan Sauceda, age 63, of Immokalee, passed away May 2, 2005, in Immokalee. He was born May 23, 1941, in McAllen, Texas. He was a former, longtime resident of LaBelle and lived in Immokalee for the past 20 years.Survivors include his children: Sylvia Lambert of LaBelle, Erasmo Sauceda of Immokalee, Ismael Sauceda of LaBelle, Susana Sauceda of LaBelle, Juan Sauccda Jr. of Lehigh Acres and Agustina Sauceda of Immokalee, siblings: Eva Ochoa of McAllen, Tex., Leonor Cantu of Pharr, Tex. and Narcisco Sauceda of Flint, Mich., five grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter Maria Sandra Sauceda.Funeral Services were held May 7 at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church in LaBelle with Father Jiobani Batista officiating. Interment followed at Fort Denaud Cemetery in LaBelle.Arrangements by: Akin-Davis Funeral Home-LaBelle, Florida.

Fort Myers News-Press, 20 Jun 2005 -- Ralph Harold Sauls, 78, of Ft. Myers died June 18, 2005, he was born in North Carolina a son of the late Ralph Brantley and Linda Vivian (Smith) Sauls. Harold served in the U. S. Navy during WW II, he attended Campbell Colllege, Wake Forest College, FL, Atlantic University University of South Florida he received his B.A. and M.A. education specialist degree. He moved to the local area in 1957 and worked for the Lee County School Board as a teacher of geography at Ft. Myers Junior High for 10 years before becoming the principal at Edgewood Elementary School for 20 years. He was the square dance caller for The Swingers Square Dance Club for 29 years, he was a memeber of Masonic Lodge #258 and the Scottish Rite, he was a master gardener a man for all season he could do anything. He was a member of First United Methodist Church and attended First Assembly of God. Mr Sauls is survived by his wife of 55 years Joyce Vann Mitchell Sauls, his children Jennifer McPhail Sauls Lemmons, of CA, Timothy David Sauls, of Cape Coral, Michael Lee Sauls of VA, Toby Scott Sauls of Ft. Myers, his grandchildren Portia Lemmons, Shannon Lemmons, Frank Lemmons, Jr., Casey Lemmons, David Perch, his sister JJulia Sauls Wells of NC. Entombment will be in Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press, 30 May 2005 -- Janet Saunders, age 71, of Land O' Lakes died at her home on Saturday, May 28, 2005. She was born in Youngstown, OH and move to Tampa in 1952. Janet was a well known business women in several communities for many years. She at one time owned a Window Company in Tampa, Williams Co. of Tampa, Inc., AAA Aluminum Stamping, Inc. in Ft. Myers and Williams Co.,/Door Division in Sanford, FL. Janet was voted Business Women of the Year in Tampa in 1981. Throughout her many years in the business world she touched the lives of many people. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister and grandmother. She is survived by her husband Captain Andrew Saunders; three daughters, Vicki LePree (Captain Michael), of Lake Placid, Diane Zanella (Dr. Thomas), of St. Petersburg and Nancy Nigro (Bob) of Tampa, one brother Don E. Williams of Ft. Myers, eight grandchildren; Tiffany, Crystal, Kyle, Stephanie, De Anna, Corinne, Carley & Cokee. A memorial service will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church at 10 AM on Wednesday, June 1, 2005, 5103 N. Central Ave. in Tampa.

Fort Myers News Press, May 11 2004 - Joel James Savage passed away May 8, 2004, at Haley Veterans Hospital in Tampa. Cremation will occur. He was born in New Orleans, LA July 10, 1947 and thereafter was a lifelong resident of Florida. He graduated from Fort Myers High School and served in the U.S. Army in Korea. In recent years, he resided in Pensacola. He is survived by his parents, John and Betty Savage, of Fort Myers; a brother, Bryan J. Savage and sister, Sharon F. Savage, both of Fort Myers; a son Sean Savage of Fort Myers, and one grandchild.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, March 10, 1933--Mrs. Harry B. Sawyer, 69 years old, winter visitor at Lake Wales, died late yesterday at the Lee Memorial hospital following a brief illness. Mrs. Sawyer, whose northern home is at Bath, Maine, came here Monday to visit Mr. and Mrs. Ike Shaw, old friends. She was stricken that day and underwent an emergency operation Tuesday. Her husband and a daughter survive, Mrs. Walter Brennan of Augusta, Maine, both of whom were here. The body, in charge of L. W. Engelhardt & Son, will be sent to Bath late today for burial.

Fort Myers News-Press Nov 26, 2008 Peter P. Sbarra, 76, of Cape Coral passed away on November 22, 2008. He was born on Dec. 25, 1931 in Brooklyn, NY, a son of the late John and Marie Sbarra. After retirement from the New York City Police Dept. he became a longtime resident of Cape Coral for the past 32 years.Peter is survived by his children, Vicki and husband Doug Santini, Peter Sbarra, Linda Pidkameny and her husband Harry, and Michael Sbarra and his wife Tina. Also leaves behind 10 grandchildren, Thomas and Adrienne Patton, Sean and Tabitha Pidkameny, Shane Manson, Noel, Nicholas, Nathaniel, Meghan and Tyler Sbarra; 2 great-grandchildren, Kyle and Logan Patton. His life so blessed and a heart so deeply loved. You will be sadly missed by all who love you as father, grandfather and most of all a true friend.A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, Nov. 28, 2008 at 2:30 PM at St. Katharine Catholic Church in Cape Coral. The family will receive friends on Friday from 12:15-2:15 PM at Coral Ridge Funeral Home. Entombment will follow in Coral Ridge Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press, Feb 6 2005-- Viola M. Scelfo, 94, of Ft. Myers died February 3, 2005, she was born in Chicago, IL, a daughter of the late John A. and Agnes Snyder, she worked for the telephone company for many years and moved to the local area from Chicago in 1960, she and her late husband Anthony started Tovi's Pet Cemetery and she ran the cemetery with her husband, two sons and daughter for over 35 years before closing it in 1999. Mrs. Scelfo is survived by her son William of Ft. Myers, her sister Gladys of OK, her granddaughter Angie Koff of Labelle and her 5 great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Anthony in 1980 her son William and her daughter Shirley. A funeral service will be conducted in the Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home on Monday at 11 AM., a visitation will be at the funeral home from 10 to 11 AM. Entombment will be in Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press 6 Nov 2007 Harriett Jean Schafer died unexpectedly November 3, 2007. She was born February 5, 1930 in New Castle, IN to Harry F. and Ida Gladys Tape. The family moved to Illinois when she was a small child and there she spent her childhood and a good part of her adult years. She graduated from East Peoria Community High School. After graduation she was employed by Caterpillar Tractor Co. for 18 years and became the executive secretary to the plant manager. She left there in 1970 to marry her beloved husband, Harold M. (Ham) Schafer, who passed in 1997. In 1972 they decided Florida was where they wanted to retire and ultimately they did.Those left to cherish her with fond memories are sister, Eileen F. Sutton (Larry) of Fort Myers, FL; brother, Paul E. Tape (Teresa, deceased), Bellview, FL; stepson, Michael Schafer (Eileen) of Glenview, IL; stepdaughter, Leola Bitkoff (Stewart) of Bartonsville, PA; stepdaughter, Teresa Eckman (Dennis) of Houston, TX. Her many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews will also mourn her passing as she considered them all to be "her kids" and loved them dearly. Mark A. Sutton, Scott D. Sutton (Luanne), Shea, Spencer, Sara and Silas; Michelle Sutton DiGiacomo (David), Megan, Lindsay and Ellie; Paul E. Tape, Jr. (Kelly) Paul I, Haley and newborn, Raymond Tape, Ian; Alice Tigue (Gerry), Stacey, Chase and Chance Carter; Douglas Johnson (Margo) Jennifer, Julie and Jodie; Steve Schafer (Laura), Samantha, Peyton and Carleigh; Brian Schafer (Jeannie) Patrick, Brendon, Thomas, John (deceased); Cathy Schafer Ryan (Kevin), Kelly, Maggie, and Brennan; Dave Schafer (Denise) Madeline; Dan Schafer (Dennise) Marian; Holly Flannagan ( Greg) Abby, Emily and Caity and Melody Bitkoff; Marci Eckman Anderson (Eric), Dakota and Kane; Chris Eckman (Katie) Shane and Gabriel.Her sister Mary Ann Johnson preceded her in death in 2006. She also left at home two precious puppies, Buffy and Barney, who will continue to be loved and cherished.Harriett lived a busy life from shepherding kids to swim practice, to becoming the deviled-egg expert in the family, to maintaining the flowers and plants in her yard. She was a very caring person, always there to lend an ear or hand. She and Ham were active in the Royal Palm Yacht Club for several years, both in boating, bowling, and special events. Many will sorely miss her compassionate and loving nature. Visitation will be held at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens on Wednesday, November 7th from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 8th at 10:00 a.m. at the same location.Harriett loved flowers and they would be greatly appreciated, however donations can be made in her honor to the American Heart Association or American Diabetes Association.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, May 25, 1942-- John Davis Schell, 81-year-old Lee County pioneer, died yesterday at his residence at Olga. Funeral services will be conducted at 5 o'clock this afternoon in the Lawrence A. Powell chapel with the Rev. Joseph Barton officiating. Interment will follow in the Fort Meyrs Cemetery. Pall bearers will be D. F. Walker, Joe Lewis, A. T. McNeill, R. V. Lee, William McCoy and C. A. Bruner. Mr. Schell was born in Halifax, Pa. on March 9, 1881 (sic), one of 11 brothers and sisters. He moved to Illinois in the late 1900's, where he operated a dairy farm. In 1899 he married Miss Hilda Swanson. In 1912 Mr. Schell and his family moved to Florida, where he has lived ever since. Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Hilda M. Schell; a son, John L. Schell of Bartow, two daughters, Mrs. John H. Shultz of Lakeland and Mrs. Merrel Vivas of Fort Myers; two granddaughters, Marcia Schell and Rebecca Schell of Bartow and one grandson, Richard Shultz of Lakeland.

Fort Myers News-Press, Dec 31 2004-- Virginia D. McClain Scheneman, 81, a long-time resident of Alva, passed away at her residence on Wednesday, December 29, 2004. Virginia was born May 25, 1923 in Upshur County, WVA to the late John and Edna (Armstrong) McClain. She devoted her life to her family and was a wonderfully caring wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. When she and Chester made their permanent residence in Alva, Virginia became a very active member of the Alva Garden Club. She had a great love for her friends and neighbors and always expressed a deep appreciation for natural beauty of Alva. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her brothers James and Ward; and her sisters Maxine, Juanita and Hazel. Virginia is survived by her loving husband of nearly 61 years: Chester "Chet" Scheneman; her four children and their spouses: Nancy and Tom Brehm, Phoenix, AZ; Brent Scheneman, Alva; Lori and Steve Allshouse, Charlottesville, VA; Larry and Brenda Scheneman, Phoenix, AZ; eight grandchildren: Marcy, Zachary, Alexander, Zoah, Rose, Orion, Emma and Amanda; three great grandchildren: Natalie, Dustin, BenHenry and Jacqueline; and her nephew and his wife: John and Lois Fidler of Lehigh Acres, with whom she was very close. Friends will be received Saturday, January 1, 2005 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, January 2, 2005 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Farley Funeral Home, Lehigh Acres, corner of Lee Boulevard and Williams Avenue

Fort Myers News-Press 22 Oct 2007 In loving memory of my husband, Henry Schlichte, who was born on March 22, 1923 in Bramel, Germany and immigrated to New York in 1960. Henry is survived by his loving wife, Edith of Fort Myers Beach, FL; his eldest son, Frank and his wife, Debbie of Garden City, NY; his youngest son, Henry and his wife, Cheryl of Cape Coral, FL. He also leaves behind five grandchildren, Sarah, Zachariah, Lindsay, Amanda and John. Visitation will be held Wednesday form 5-7 PM and Thursday from 10-11 AM in the chapel of Coral Ridge Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 11AM in the funeral home. Entombment will follow in Coral Ridge Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Jan. 12, 1951 - Mrs. Nell Virgil Schmaltz, 55, died yesterday. She was born May 12, 1895 in Bessemer, Ala. and had been a resident of Fort Myers since February. She is survived by her husband, Anton Schmaltz and a sister, Mrs. Hattie Knapp of Bessemer. Funeral services will be held today at 10 a.m. at the Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Rev. James Byler officiating. The body will be sent to Orlando for cremation.

Fort Myers News-Press, Dec 31 2004-- Walter J. Scholle, 71, of Cape Coral died December 29, 2004 at his residence. Walter was born April 28, 1933 in Chicago, IL, a son of the late Harry and Isabel Rimme Scholle. A former business owner, Walter had been employed for the past 11 years at Tween Waters Resort. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving in Korea and Viet Nam. He was a member of the American Legion. Walter was an avid bowler and golfer and had resided in the Cape for the past 17 years coming from Illionis. Walter was preceded in death by a brother, Gilbert. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Judy Scholle; sons, Brian Scholle and Bill Butler; daughters, Susan (Donald) Duda and Cynthia (David) Savone; his grandchildren, Michael Scholle, Stephanie Stanton, David "Bud" Savone II, Nicole Reyes, Lindsey Hoelter, Danielle Duda, Kelsey Scholle and Dustin Scholle; great-grandchildren, Theron and Ainsley Hoelter, a sister, Shirley Taylor. Visitation will be held Sunday, January 2, 2005 from Noon-2 PM in the chapel of Coral Ridge Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held Monday, January 3, 2005 at 1:00 PM in the funeral home. Entombment will follow in Coral Ridge Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press Feb 22, 2007 Oswald ("Sam") Schooley, former Fort Myers resident and a 1948 graduate of Fort Myers High School, died Monday, Feb. 19, in West Palm Beach after a long illness. He was 76. Mr. Schooley was a former director of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Conservation Programs for 20 counties in South and Central Florida.He was born July 15, 1930, in Granite City, Ill., and moved to Fort Myers at age 15. He graduated from Fort Myers High School, then attended the University of Florida, receiving a bachelor of arts degree in education in 1952.He served in the U.S. Army from 1952-1954, and in the Army Reserve for 32 years.Mr. Schooley joined the Department of Agriculture and moved to Palm Beach County in 1958. After serving as director of Conservation Programs, he remained with the federal government in the USDA's Food and Nutrition Service. He retired from federal service after 32 years.He and his wife, Sue, were married in 1960 in West Palm Beach.Mr. Schooley was active in Lake Clarke Shores affairs, serving on committees. He ran unsuccessfully for the Town Council in 2006.He was secretary of the BYKOTA-Unity Lodge No. 333, F&AM in Greenacres for 38 years; a member of the Scottish Rite bodies of Lake Worth; and a charter member of Amara Temple of the Shrine.He was a member of Memorial Presbyterian Church in West Palm Beach, and served on its Board of Deacons. He was on the Boy Scout advisory committee at First Evangelical Church, president of two PTAs and on several committees of the Palm Beach County Council of PTA.He was a Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office volunteer for 15 years.Mr. Schooley is survived by his wife Sue, daughter Melinda of West Palm Beach; sons Robert of West Palm Beach and Stephen of Lake Clarke Shores; and two grandsons Justin R and Jared M.The family will receive friends from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Friday at Tillman Funeral Home, 2170 Military Trail, West Palm Beach, with a Masonic service at 7:30 p.m. Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at Memorial Presbyterian Church, 1300 S. Olive Ave., West Palm Beach. Burial will be in Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell.The family requests memorial contributions to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, American Heart Association or Shriners Hospitals for Children.Hail and farewell old friend. See you in the next place!

Fort Myers News-Press, Jan 15 2005-- James Owen Schreck passed away on Wednesday January 12, 2005. A loving husband and father, Jim was born on July 18, 1921 and is survived by his wife of 58 years, LaDonne, son Donald, daughter Deborah and three grandchildren: Jennifer, Sam and Heather. Jim earned his BSME from the University of Kentucky in 1948 and his Masters Degree in Engineering Administration from The Institute of Technology, Wright Field, Ohio in 1955. During WW II Jim served as Squadron Navigator for the 446th Battle Group and flew 30 missions as nose turret Pilotage Navigator. Including the first B-24 Berlin Raid and the first D-Day mission on Normandy. In 1949 Jim returned to active duty in the USAF and flew 49 B-29 missions over North Korea. He retired Lt. Col. USAF in 1968. A resident of Cape Coral since January 1968, Jim was a key player in the planning and construction of the city. He worked 17 years as Engineer and Vice President of the Land Development Construction Co., owned by Avatar, retiring for the second time in 1985. Jim's hobbies included boating, fishing, skeet and trap shooting. He was the winning member of the US Air Force Skeet Team World Open in Paris, France in 1961, and had numerous wins in various gauges and classes in S.W. Florida including the Orange Bowl Classic in 1970. He was a member of the Cape Coral Tarpon Hunters Club, member and past Commodore of Cape Coral Cruise Club. A Memorial Service will be celebrated on Friday January 21, 2005 at 10:30 A.M. in the Chapel of the Cape Coral Memorial Funeral Home, 3740 Del Prado Boulevard, with Pastor Sue Haupert-Johnson of Cape Coral First United Methodist Church officiating.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-09-10 -- Betty Crumb Schroeder went to be with the Lord on Thursday, Sept. 9, 2004. Born in Birmingham, AL on Dec. 24, 1925 she was the precious daughter of Russell M. and Florence Crumb. She attended Birmingham Southern College and was a member of Tau Alpha Chapter of Zeta TAu Alpha sorority. During WWII in 1945 Betty married Malcom W. Schroeder who was a pilot in the Army Air Corps. She faithfully served in many ministries at Canterbury Methodist Church in Mountain Brook, AL. Betty was elected to Civietts, Inc. where countless volunteer hours were devoted to the eye clinic at the University of Alabama. She loved her Bama football team under the leadership of the legendary coach Bear Bryant. She was eligible for the Daughters of the American Revolution. In 1969 she moved to Ft. Myers, FL with her family through an opportunity for Mal to serve as President of the old First National Bank in Ft. Myers, followed by serving as President of Lee County Bank for a number of years until his retirement. Betty was a member of the Royal Palm Yacht Club for 30 years, the Sabal Palm Garden Club and the Elizabeth Benevolent Colonial Dames organizations. However, Betty devoted most of her life to her husband and her three sons, Bob (who died before they left Birmingham), Bill and John. She cherished her daughters-in-law, Candy and Deanna, along with her five grandchildren, Nicholas, Andy, Sarah, Daniel and Elizabeth. She'll always be known as a gracious and refined Southern Lady who was loved by all. Betty so loved animals, especially Boston terriers. Her family was blessed in having the wonderful care services of Hope Hospice and its staff for many months, along with private nursing services. The Schroeder Families also give special thanks to Dr. Daniel Dosoretz and Dr. David Lee of Radiation Therapy Services, Inc. for their care and services. Because of her Christian Faith, she is now in heaven with the rest of her loved ones. Funeral service honoring her life will be conducted Sat. Sept. 11, 2004 at 11:00 AM at the Harvey-Engelhard-Metz Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd., with Rev. John Davis, officiating. Her family will receive friends one hour prior to service time at the funeral home. Private interment will follow in Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Oct. 26, 1936--Corbon N. Schuck, 13-month-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry S. Schuck, died yesterday at Lee Memorial Hospital afater an illness of a week. Besides his parents, he is survived by a sister Catherine of Fort Myers and a brother, Walter, of Key West. Funeral arrangements are in charge of Lawrence A. Powell and will be announced later.

Fort Myers News-Press Feb 5, 2009 Kenneth N. Schultz, age 57, passed away unexpectedly at home on February 3. He was a 1969 graduate of Fort Myers High School and a graduate of the University of Miami. Ken was a professional oboeist.He is survived by his mother, Betty, sister, Cindi Koehler, niece, Stacey Perkins and nephew, Brian Scheall. No services are planned.

THE FORT MYERS PRESS, Jan. 21, 1927--Arrangements are being made to carry the remains of John Schumacher attorney of Chicago, Ill. who died at his winter home on Captiva island at 9 o'clock this morning, back to his Chicago home for burial Mr. Schumacher, who was 51 years of age, died from an attack of heart failure. He came to Captiva three months ago. The body will be accompanied back to Chicago by the sister-in-law of the deceased, Mrs. Anna Thompson, of Kew Gardens, N.Y., who is also spending the winter on Captiva. Mr. Schumacher is survived by two children in Chicago.

Fort Myers News-Press -- 15 May 2005 -- Patricia Rodda, known to many as Pat Schumacher, 56, passed away May 12, 2005 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born in Detroit on July 22, 1948, Pat, her children and her parents moved to Sanibel where together with her parents, she formed and operated Captiva Island Realty. After the passing of her parents (93' - 94'), Pat continued to operate the business until 1998 when her health caused her to retire. Widely known in island real estate circles, Pat is better known for the courageous way in which she fought her illness. First diagnosed in 1996, Pat adopted an attitude that while the illness may one day take her, it would never beat her. She approached every day with an upbeat attitude coupled with a keen sense of humor. Over time, her smile and her courage became inspirational to others, not just other patients, but to her doctors, her nurses and the staff as well. Though she was ultimately diagnosed with three separate cancers and endured many surgeries and treatments, Pat never once appeared for a medical appointment without looking her best. Her clothes, her makeup, her hair, and most of all, her smile, were always perfectly in place, and while she may now be gone, her legacy will remain, that of the graceful warrior who always had a smile for everyone. Pat is survived by her husband, Harry, her daughter, Lisa Crumpler (Billy), her son, Wally Pavel (Becky), her grandchildren, many aunts, uncles and cousins, her special cousin Cindy, and her close and special friend, Paula Wagner (Chris), without whose love, help and constant clowning, Pat would have never survived so well. A memorial service celebrating Pat's life will be held at The Church of the Cross, Daniels Parkway at 10:00 AM, Saturday, May 21, 2005. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to be sent to Hope Hospice (Shell Point Facility), 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908.

The News-Press, 11/26/2008--Thelma E. Schumann, 73, of Fort Myers, passed away Monday, November 24, 2008, a resident for the past 20 years formally of New Orleans. She was a member of the Ovarian Cancer Support Group at Lee Memorial Hospital. She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Ronald, sons Ronald Jr. & wife Marilyn, Ralph and Raymond & wife Tracy Schumann, daughter Thoy & husband Roger Leonard, 9 grandchildren, sisters Gloria Bonner & Elva Champion. Mass of Christian burial at Blessed Pope John the XXIII 2:00 PM Friday November 28, 2008. Interment will follow Friday at Lee Memorial Park. Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the service at the church.Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home334-4880

Fort Myers News-Press, 31 Aug 2005-- Herbert Schwartz, born May 16, 1925, died on August 30, 2005 at 11:30 a.m. with his loving wife and children by his bed side. Mr. Schwartz and his brother Gunther were among the fortunate Jewish children that traveled to America to escape the holocaust. His parent's and over thirty of his family members did not survive. He lived his life to the fullest, and entered the US Army during WWII and was injured during the Italian campaign. He married Dorothy Shankmen and had three children, Ted, Ken and Karen. After his discharge from the Army he continued serving his country as an employee of the CIA and dedicated his life to democracy and the security of his country. After his retirement, he spent many hours leading the local Jewish War Veterans Post 400. During the last years of his life he spoke to many of the high schools in Southern Florida teaching about the holocaust and tolerance. He taught his children and others that prejudice towards others was wrong. He was a man of peace working with the hope that we never forget horror of the holocaust and that it never be repeated against any persons any where in the world. Mr. Schwartz is survived by his wife, his three children, five grandchildren and one great grandchild. Funeral Services will be conducted at 10:00 A.M. Thursday September 1, 2005 at the Metz Funeral Chapel with Rabbi Devora Buchen officiating. Burial will follow at Coral Ridge Cemetery with Military Honors.

Fort Myers News-Press, 6 July 2007-- Sybil E. Hamilton Bembry Schwarz passed away July 3, 2007. She was born Feb. 4, 1920 on Marco Island, FL and was the daughter of Monville and Flossie Hamilton. She was raised on Marco Island and Moore Haven, FL. She lived in Clewiston, FL for 25 yrs. before moving to Fort Myers in 1960. She worked as a supervisor at Ohio Medical Company until her retirement in 1978. She is preceded in death by her parents and daughter Sharon Harn. She is survived by her daughters, Nadine Winter, Cindy Luettich (Larry), grandchildren Gerald White, Janet White, Steve Devore, Tammy Luettich, Amy Luettich Smith, Wayne Luettich, Holly Harn Orozco and 8 great grandchildren. Sybil was a devoted mother, grandmother and friend. Her strength of spirit and easy laugh will be missed by all who love her. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday July 6, 2007 at Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL. Interment will follow in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the funeral home at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, 936-0555.

Fort Myers News-Press, Dec 7 2004 - William K "Dutch" Schwerdtfeger, 88 of Cape Coral, died suddenly December 1, 2004. Dutch was a CW03 Naval Officer, he served on the USS Colorado BB45 in WWII, also served on the USS Valley Forge Aircraft Carrier during the Korean War. Dutch completed two tours in the Paris and US Embassy. Retired as a CW03 in Washington DC, relocated to Cape Coral, FL in 1974. Dutch was a member of the American Legion Post 90 in Cape Coral, VFW Post 8463, a Master Mason at Kemper Macon Ware Lodge #64 AF&AM. Dutch also volunteered at the VA Clinic in Ft. Myers for 12 years. Dutch is survived by his two sons, Bruce and Karl, grandsons Brandon, Jeffery and Alan, great-granddaughter Jana & great-grandson Tyler. Dutch will be cherished and sadly missed by all who knew him. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at Faith Presbyterian Church, 4544 Coronado Pkwy., Cape Coral, Dec. 11, 2004 at 11:00 AM. Please join the family after the service at 5401 SW 6th Ave., Cape Coral. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Horizon Funeral Home & Cremation Center.

Earl S. Scobee, Jr., 77, of Lehigh Acres, went home to be with the Lord, September 13, 2003. He was a native of Key Largo, FL and lived for many years in LaBelle, FL. Earl proudly served his country with the U.S. Coast Guard during WWII and the Korean Conflict. Ear is survived by his wife Patricia Dillon-Scobee; two daughters; Cindy Keller of Ft. Myers and Nancy Collins of Muse; one brother; Robert of LaBelle; 14 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren; step-children; Donna, Diane, Daniel and Kelly. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held 1:00 PM, Wednesday, September 17, 2003 at the LaBelle Baptist Temple. Arrangements by Farley Funeral Home, Lehigh Acres.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS-March 29, 2007-- George William Scofield, 92, of Fort Myers passed away on Wednesday March 28, 2007. He was born in Syracuse, NY the son of the late Jarid and Caroline Scofield and was preceded in death by his loving wife Margaret. George was a disabled veteran of WWII and Korean War and devoted many hours volunteering for veterans in MD and at Bay Pines, St. Petersburg, FL. George was Commander of DAV chapters in MD, Bradenton, FL and Largo, FL and was a member of Masonic Lodge and Scottish Rite Temple, Tampa ,FL and President of WBCCI Suncoast Unit, Bradenton, FL. George is survived by his children; George (wife Judy) Scofield, Happy Jack, AZ; Gary Scofield, Phoenix, AZ; Marcia (husband Charles), Ft. Myers, FL, and step son John McGovern, Manassas, VA; grandchildren Gary Scofield, JR, Jeff Scofield, Thomas Scofield, David Bond, Chris Bond, Melanie Bond Dhue, and Heather Bond and many great grandchildren. Funeral services will be conducted with Military Honors 12 noon Saturday March 31, 2007 at the Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Funeral arrangements under the direction of the Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home 1600 Colonial Blvd Fort Myers. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in George's name to Hope Hospice or the Shriners Hospital.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - Friday, May 26, 1978 Frank Sconn, 56, of 1742 Magnolia Drive, North Fort Myers, died Wednesday in Tampa. He had lived here for the past 17 years and was a member of Noah Masonic Lodge 357. He is survived by his wife, Lola Sconn; three daughters, Debbie Schomer, Barbara Sconn and Janine Sconn, all of North Fort Myers; his father, Oscar Sconn of Orlando; and one granddaughter, Tammy Schomer. Funeral service will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Fuenral Home with the Rev. Bill Love officiating. Burial will be at Fort Myers Cemetery. (Garden of Memories)

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, October 17, 1951-- Charles H. Scott, 49, died yesterday. he had spent his entire life here. Surviving are his wife, Frances Scott; five brothers, John, Punta Rassa, Jim, North Fort Myers, Everett, Punta Rassa, Oscar, Fort Myers, Joe, Fort Myers; two sisters, Mrs. Viola McClenithan, Pine Island, Mrs. Nellie Futch, Pine Island; and two uncles, Max Moralis, Punta Rassa, and George Roland, Fort Myers. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home. October 18, 1951 - Funeral services for Charles H. Scott will be held today at 11 am at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with the Rev. Walter Ray officiating. Pallbearers will be Clarence Sherouse, Wilbur Martindale, William M. Long and N. B. Scott. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Nov. 13, 1932--Clarence Lloyd Scott, 14-months-old son of Mr. and Mrs. C. O. Scott, died suddenly yesterday afternoon of a heart attack. The infant died in its mother's arms while being taken to a doctor's office here in an automobile from Buckingham. Funeral services will be held at 4 o'clock this afternoon at the Lawrence A. Powell funeral home. The Rev. W. H. Edwards will officiate. The baby had suffered with a weak heart since birth. It was stricken at its Buckingham home and the frantic parents rushed to Fort Myers. The child was pronounced dead when taken to the doctor's office.

Fort Myers News-Press May 13, 2008 Darcy Lynn Hagen Scott, 45, passed away quietly in her sleep on May 11, 2008 after a long struggle with cancer. She was born June 22, 1962 to Joan and J. Stewart Hagen III in Detroit, Michigan. She was raised in Fort Myers and graduated in 1980 from Fort Myers High School. For many years she worked in her father's office at Hagen & Bacon Surgical Group and co-owned Grady's Restaurant on North Captiva. Darcy is survived by her son Grady Scott of Sanibel, her brothers, sister and many other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents.Darcy was a beautiful woman who was loved most for her generous nature and sense of humor which she kept to the end. Darcy will be missed by many.In lieu of flowers please send donations to the America American Cancer Society American Cancer Society American Cancer SocietyAmerican Cancer Society. Memorial services will be private.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, June 1, 1929--E. B. Scott, aged fisherman who lived by himself at St. James City for the past two years, was found dead in his bed yesterday morning by neighbors. Death apparently resulted from natural causes, authorities said, and no investigation will be made. Scott, believed to be about 65 years old, was recently a patient at the Lee Memorial hospital. His body is being cared for at the Engelhardt mortuary pending the receipt of word from relatives. The address of an Ed Scott in New York was found among the fisherman's effects, and he was informed of the death. Neighbors knew of no relatives here.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - August 2, 1943 Heart Attack Fatal to E. E. Scott, 61 Emmet Elmer Scott, 61, died early Wednesday morning after a heart attack.  Mr. Scott was night operator for the city water treatment plant and has made his home here for the pasat 20 years.  He leaves his wife, Mrs. Clara A. Scott; a daughter, Miss Normanda Scott; and a son, Sgt. E. Reynaud Scott in the service; a sister, Mrs. George M. Thompson; and a brother, John I. Scott, Jefferson, City, Missouri. Funeral services will be held this morning a 11 o'clock in the Lawrence A. Powell chapel on First Street with the Rev. Milner C. Brittian officiating.  Masons will have charge of the services at the grave.  The body will lie in state until services at 11 o'clock.

Ft Myers News-Press, March 26, 2001 - Mr. Gene Martin Scott, 73, of Charlotte, died Thursday, March 22, 2001 at Presbyterian Hospital in Matthews. Mr. Scott was born January 18, 1928 in Mishawaka, IN to Alberta Mae Buckland and the late James M. Scott. He served his country in the Army during the Korean Conflict and will be remembered as a loving and devoted father and friend. His survivors in addition to his mother, Alberta Mae Buckland of Granger, IN are his daughter, Tammy J. Corsino and husband Albert of Charlotte; his step-sons, George Gambill of Jackson, TN, CHarles Gambill of Pensacola, FL and Emory Barger of Wayne, WV; and by his sister, Betty I. Voreis of Granger, IN. His family will receive friends Sunday afternoon from 2 until 4PM at the home of his daughter and son-in-law, Tammy and Albert Corsino. Interment will be private at Lee Memorial Park in Ft Myers, FL, next to his beloved wife, Janice. Arrangements are in the care of Heritage Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press Nov 24, 2001 Glen B. 'Buzz' Scott, died at his residence November 21, 2001. He was born in Fort Myers and graduated from Fort Myers High School and attended Edison Community College. For many years he was a musician and toured with his band. He was later employed as a boat rigger. Glen is survived by his wife, Linda; one brother, H. Neal (Marvine) Scott of Fort Myers; his mother, Josephine H. Scott of Fort Myers; and many uncles, aunts and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Hal K. Scott, Jr., his maternal grandparents, Neal and Dallas Haynie and paternal grandparents, Hal K. Sr. and Edna Scott of Fort Myers. Memorial services will be held Monday November 26, 2001 at 1100 AM from the chapel of Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd. The family will receive friends following the memorial service

Fort Myers News-Press, Mar 8 2005-- Grace Evelyn Ladson Scott, long time resident of Virginia and 23 year resident of Ft. Myers, FL went to be with the Lord on March 4, 2005, at the age of 89. She was born January 31, 196, one of three children, in Washington, DC. Her career as a secretary led her to a position as the Executive Assistant to Senator William Scott of Virginia in Washington, DC. She married Arthur Scott in March 1935 and they were blessed with 42 years of marriage until his death in 1977. They had one child, Anna Scott Cunningham, who gave her five active grandchildren whom she loved selflessly and provided with advice and wisdom over the years. Her family is known for their closeness and shared bond of love. A lifelong member of the Baptist faith, belonging to the First Baptist Church of Ft .Myers for the last 23 years, she taught Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and made special mission presentations for her church. She as a woman of strong faith and many people benefited from her teachings. An avid traveler during her marriage and afterward, she traveled in the US, Canada, Mexico, and Europe, including mission trips in Europe. Grace will be missed by family and friends who were blessed by her love and caring. She is survived by her brother, William P. Ladson and wife Jacqueline of Sarasota, FL; her grandchildren, Karen McAlister and husband Jerry of Fair Oaks Ranch; TX, Robert Cunningham and wife Lois of Blackwood, NJ; Cheryl Knight and husband James of Bridgewater, NJ; Shawn Cunningham and wife Crystal of Red Lion, PA; and Kevin Cunningham of Corpus Christi, TX; and great grandchildren, Brandon Cunningham, James Knight, Jr., Michael and Christopher Knight, Allura Alonzo and Gabriel Cunningham and Peyton Graves as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Funeral services will be held March 8, 2005 (TODAY) at 11:00 AM at the First Baptist Church of Ft. Myers, 1735 Jackson St., Ft. Myers, FL 33901. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Habitat for Humanity, or the First Baptist Church of Ft. Myers. Arrangements by North Fort Myers Memorial Funeral Home, 239-936-0555.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS James Henry Scott, 66-year-old owner of the Golden Rule Market on Anderson Avenue, died yesterday morning at the Lee Memorial Hospital after a stroke Friday. Mr. Scott is well-known in Fort Myers and vicinity having made his home here for the past 23 years, coming from Jackson County, Florida. He is survived by his wife, Mary E. Scott and eight daughters: Mrs. J. C. Martin of Fort Myers, Mrs. Mike Henry of Tampa, Mrs. Amanda Hines, Miss Mattie C. Scott, Mrs. Buck Fernandez, Mrs. Myitis Allison, Mrs. George Myer, Miss Barbara Scott of Fort Myers. He also leaves 16 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Mr. Scott was an active member of the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church. Funeral services will be held at the church at 3 o'clock Thursday afternoon, the Rev. J. W. Swanson officiating. The following will act as pallbearers: F. E. Strousbaugh, Clarence Scott, Roy Sparks, Ernest Horne, E. R. Thompson and John Haas. Interment will be in the Fort Myers Cemetery with Lawrence A. Powell in charge of arrangements.

Fort Myers News-Press--July 10, 2007 Mary Josephine Haynie "Jo" Scott passed away on Sunday July 8, 2007 she was 77. Josephine was born to John and Dallas Haynie in Royston, GA on April 27, 1930. She moved to Florida when she was six years old. Josephine was a member of the New Voice Club, Red Hats and the American Business Women Association. She worked for Allied Appraisers as their chief controller. Jo was very devoted to her family.Josephine is predeceased by her parents John and Dallas Haynie, her husband Hal and her son Glenn "Buzz". She is survived by her son Neal (Marvine), and a sister Gatha. She leaves three grandchildren, Sheila, Michelle and Amber and three great-grandchildren Matthew, Samantha and Eric and a nephew Billy (Carmalita) she is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.A memorial service will be held on Thursday, July 12, 2007 at 10:30 AM in the Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd. 936-0555. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Fort Myers Memorial Gardens

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, July 8, 1937--Mrs. Nancy Elizabeth Scott, 46-year-old wife of Wilton D. Scott,died yesterday at their home on Highland avenue after a long illness. Mrs. Scott had lived in Fort Myers for the past 10 years. She is survived by her husband, a daughter, Mrs. Gladys Kirkpatrick, and three sons, J. W., T. J. and W. C. Scott. Funeral arrangements will be made by Spooner and Engelhardt and announced later.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, July 7, 1950 - Newman H. Scott died at his home at 1024 Hoople Street Thursday afternoon. He was born in Postmill, Vt. on Jan. 2, 1868 and had lived in Fort Myers for 11 years. Surviving is his wife, Sigrid Scott. Funeral services will be held Saturday at 10 am at the Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with the Rev. W. E. Dance officiating. The body will be taken to Sarasota.

Fort Myers News-Press, Oct. 16, 1962-- Oscar Scott, 48, a resident of St. James City, died yesterday. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Nora Scott; two sisters, Mrs. Frank Futch and Mrs. Viola McClenithan; 3 brothers, J ohn Scott, Everett Scott, Fort Myers, and Joe Scott of St. Petersburg. He was a veteran of World War II. Funeral service will be held today at 2 p.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Rev. U. Curry Walton officiating. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Howell Grimm, Richard Harding, Albert Brown, Ted Smith, Howard Jones and Stanley Jones.

Fort Myers News-Press Feb 10, 2002 Paul J. Scott, 65, went to be with his Saviour, Jesus Christ, February 7, 2002, under the loving care of Hope Hospice and his wife, Virginia. He was born February 19, 1936 in Ft. Myers, FL, the son of James H. Scott and Ruth C. Scott. With the exception of two years in the Army, Paul lived his life in his favorite area, Lee County, FL. Paul is survived by his wife of 44 years, Virginia; his son, Mark A. Scott and his wife, Susan; his grandson, Michael; his sister, Patricia Harrell; his brother-in-law, W.H. Mason and many nieces and nephews who will miss his loving presence. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, and three sisters, Kathleen Mason, Leona Watson and Betty Jean Bass. Memorial service to be held at First Alliance Church, 4050 Colonial Blvd., Ft. Myers, FL on Sunday, February 17, 2002 at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to First Alliance Church, World Missions, or Hope Hospice. via Fort Myers News-Press

Fort Myers News-Press Oct 18 2007 Phyllis A. Scott, of Fort Myers passed away on October 16, 2007 she was 85. She was born on March 1, 1922 to William and Helen Fitzgerald in Flint, Michigan. Phyllis worked for the Flint Community Schools, and on November 15, 1941 she married Earl A. Scott. Phyllis was a parishioner of Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church and she worked for Edison Community College. She was devoted to her family and her grandchildren were her pride and joy. Phyllis is predeceased by her parents William and Helen. She is survived by her husband of 66 years Earl; she has four children Gary, David (Diane), Linda Clark (Bob) and Janet Jagger (Loren). Phyllis has a sister Ada Blog, and she leaves seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be private, a celebration of her life will be held in Michigan at a later date. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Fuenral Home. 936-0555

Ft Myers News-Press 2006-06-08 Sarah Elizabeth Crow Scott of Alachua passed away on June 6, 2006 at North Florida Regional Medical Center in Gainesville, FL. She was 89. Mrs. Scott was born in Stephens, GA and moved to Alachua 5 1/2 years from Miami. She was Baptist. Mrs. Scott enjoyed gardening. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles E. Crow. Survivors include daughters, Barbara Layuna Lunger of Alachua; Karen Ann Rhoades of Fort Myers; a son, William Lamar Jones of Glendora, CA and a sister, Bessie Layuna Brannen of Fort Myers; 7 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 1 PM, Saturday, June 10, 2006 at N. Fort Myers First Baptist Church with Rev. Ronald Prueter conducting the service. Burial will be in the Fort Myers Cemetery under the direction of Williams-Thomas Funeral Home West area, 823 N.W. 143rd St., Gainesville, FL 32601, (352) 376-7556

Fort Myers News-Press--Feb 12, 2009 Susan Beckett Scott, 63, of Altamonte Springs, FL passed away on Friday, March 13, 2009. She was born in Fort Myers, FL on April 20, 1945, and resided there until she moved to Central FL in 1984 with her husband and children. Susan was a dedicated elementary school teacher in Fort Myers and in Central Florida. In her thirty-five years of teaching, Susan touched the lives of many children in her classroom. In 2007, Susan retired from her much loved profession to spend time with her husband, children, granddaughter, and friends. She is survived by her husband, David; son, John P. McGuire; daughter Shannon I. Bigham, son-in-law Scott Bigham, and granddaughter Kinsey I. Bigham, all of whom reside in Central Florida. She is also survived by her father, John T. Beckett; sister Sandy Chapman and brother-in-law, Larry Chapman; all of Fort Myers, FL, and brother David I. Beckett of Jackson, WY, and by endearing nieces, nephews, and many friends from her childhood and her years as a teacher. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2009 at 12 noon at Northland, a Church Distributed, 530 Dog Track Road, Casselberry, FL 32750. Friends are invited to the family's home at the conclusion.

Fort Myers News-Press, 16 Jul 2006 -- On Thursday, July 13, Velma Scott lost her short battle with cancer. Her last days were spent at home where she was surrounded by what was most precious to her, her family. Born in Rochester, New York, Velma moved to Fort Myers in her teens where she soon met and married Bruce J. Scott. She was a politician's wife for many years. She was very active in her church and her community. She was a gracious host who loved entertaining in her historic home. Velma had a vast knowledge of the history and development of Fort Myers and its people. Her father developed much of Matlacha and Pine Island where you will find streets named for her and her children. She had a true passion for antiques but her greatest joy was her children and her grandchildren. She excelled at being "the best grandma ever" and it was a title she delighted in. She is survived by her sister, Janet Drake, children Bruce C. Scott and Cheryl Scott Arpasi, and her grandchildren; Amy Scott Miller, Christy Scott Rigsby, Aaron Arpasi, Whitney Arpasi, and Emily Scott. She also leaves behind three great grandchildren, Hannah, Brieanna, and Naomi Miller, and many, many friends whose lives were deeply touched by this extraordinary person. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 19th, 5-7 pm, at Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers, with a Funeral Service at the funeral home on Thursday at 10:00 am. Internment will follow at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens.

St Petersburg Times, Nov 22, 2005-- 'Forever young, forever together' A St. Petersburg couple die in a plane crash on their honeymoon in Belize.Still breathless from a climb amid the Mayan ruins of Belize, Cristy Scratchley typed an e-mail to family and friends back home."Our resort is fabulous (rubbing it in)," she wrote last Thursday. She told of close encounters with exotic animals and of eating termites with the locals. "Yum ... protein.""Going back to the rainforest tomorrow, when we stay at Coppola's. Fun, fun, fun. See you all soon. Thanks again for making our wedding so special."Married Nov. 12 in St. Pete Beach, Cristy and Douglas Scratchley Jr. never made it to filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola's tony jungle lodge, the Blancaneaux.Early Friday, as Tropical Storm Gamma swirled over the area, the resort-owned airplane they were on crashed, killing them and the pilot."The world was theirs," said Cristy's father, Dean Dye of Davenport, Iowa, his voice cracking. "It's just total devastation," Melissa Rivers, a bridesmaid and Tampa co-worker of Mrs. Scratchley's, said Monday. "We've lost great friends. I'm just kind of numb."The newlyweds lived in St. Petersburg and had been together for a decade, meeting at Portofino's restaurant at Sanibel Island. They lived for a while aboard a 26-foot sailboat, then moved to the Tampa Bay area to study at the University of South Florida. He proposed aboard their houseboat last August, waking her with a kiss, then leading her to breakfast and champagne.Mr. Scratchley, 36, was an electrical engineer at Honeywell Space Systems in Pinellas County. He recently worked as technical lead on a Department of Defense project.His family, of Fort Myers, released a statement Monday expressing sorrow for the loss but "comfort in knowing how happy they were together. ... Forever young, forever together, forever in our thoughts and hearts."Mrs. Scratchley, 32, studied chemistry and biology but gravitated to the business world, climbing the ranks at Spartan Staffing in Tampa.She was responsible for training and mentoring staff members in 15 branch offices."She's obviously beautiful on the outside but even more beautiful in the inside," Dye said. "She'd do anything for anyone. Just truly caring."Cristy Scratchley had won the trip to Belize in a contest on the website Travelocity.She and her new husband stayed on Ambergris Caye, the largest of Belize's islands, known for its spectacular water and lush terrain.A trip to the mainland brought the mystery of the Mayan ruins and jungle, where Cristy delighted at the sight of howler monkeys and toucans." "Unbelizeable, " was the subject line of her e-mail home.On Friday morning, the Scratchleys took a small plane to Belize City then, just after 10 a.m., boarded a twin-engine Islander for the 35-minute trip to Blancaneaux Lodge, near the western border with Guatemala. The plane was named Sofia, after Coppola's daughter.Kathleen Talbert, a spokeswoman for the lodge, said there was some cloud cover but it was not raining at departure. When the plane did not show up at the lodge, a search was called. But weather conditions had worsened significantly and the effort from the air was suspended Friday.A civilian search team found the wreckage Saturday afternoon in a hilly, dense area not far from the lodge.Precisely what went wrong was unclear Monday. The cause is still under investigation.Coppola is in Europe working on a film but was notified of the crash."He has expressed his sympathies," Talbert said. "We're in shock as well and very, very saddened by their loss and the pilot."

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, May 3, 1935--L. H. B. Scruggs, 79 years old, died yesterday afternoon at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J. H. Gaskill at 1024 Royal Palm avenue. He had been seriously ill for three weeks. A native of Georgia, Mr. Scruggs had lived in Fort Myers with Mr. and Mrs. Gaskill for the past five years. He is survived by his daughter, Mrs. Gaskill, three granddaughters, Mrs. O. B. Phinney, Mrs. Ava Bishop of Jacksonville and Mrs. R. M. Griner of Nashville, Ga., two grandsons, J. L. and W. E. McDaniel of Daytona Beach and eight great-grandchildren. The body will be shipped to Gleenwood, Georgia this morning and funeral services will be held there sunday. L. W. Engelhardt and Sons have charge of local arrangements.

Fort Myers News-Press Nov 13, 2001 Ft. Myers native Linda Whitehead Sears passed on November 7, 2001. Born July 13, 1942, daughter of Howard T. and Inez Whitehead of Slater, Fl. She was a 1960 graduate of Ft. Myers High School and operated the family business to help beautify the community. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She is survived by her two sons, Charles Thomas and Ronald James Sears, both of Ft. Myers, FL. Two beautiful grandchildren, Tiffany Nichole and Jessica Marie Sears; also of Ft. Myers. and her brother James H. Whitehead of Cape Coral, her two sisters, Mary Kathryn Grace of Jacksonville, and Shirley Lee Ward, of Gilbert, SC. Family and friends are invited to a memorial services at Hope Hospice 2430 Diplomat Parkway, East Cape Coral, FL 33909, (TONIGHT) Tuesday, November 13, 2001 at 7:30 PM. Flowers or donations are to be sent to Hope Hospice, for their dedication and support.

Fort Myers News-Press 7 Jul 2006 Long-time resident of Fort Myers, Ida Segraves passed away peacefully June 28, 2006. Ida, widow of Ray Seagraves who worked for the City of Fort Myers for many years, was born September 20, 1905 in Crawfordville, Florida and moved with her family to Fort Myers in 1928. Her friends knew her as "Kit" but her grandchildren called her "Nanny". She was a woman rich with love and wisdom and never failed to share either with those around her. Deeply spiritual, she was and still is and inspiration to those who knew her. She is survived by her son, C.B. "Jim Bradley of Fort Myers, five grandchildren, Glenda Bradley Bethel of Gulf Shores, AL., Dr. Jimmie Bradley of Fort Myers, Joyce Bradley of Alva, Becky Olsen of Lehigh Acres and Fred Bradley of Naples, 5 great grandchildren and 4 great great-grandchildren. We know that just as a father holds his child, God has wrapped His arms around her and loved her in Heaven. Funeral services will be held Monday, July 3, 2006 at 11:00 A.M. from the chapel of Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home, 12777 State Rd. 82. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time at the funeral home.

Fort Myers News-Press Oct 23, 2008 Debra Anne Roe Seits, 57, a resident of Fort Myers, FL since 1959, passed away peacefully at Hospice House on October 16, 2008. Debbie was born in Wilmington, Delaware and was employed at Gymnastics World for over 30 years. Her passion in life was teaching "her kids". Debbie is survived by her mother, Helen (Lieu) Sabin; her siblings: Bill (Joyce) Rodgers of Wilmington, DE; Bob (Pauline) Rodgers of Fort Myers, FL; Suzanne (Bill) Turner of Fort Myers, FL; and Sandy Rodgers of Lafayette, LA; along with numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Dallas Roe and her brothers, John and Gary Roe; grandparents and several aunts and uncles. The family will receive friends on Saturday, October 25, 2008 from 3-4pm at the First Christian Church, 2061 McGregor Blvd., with funeral services beginning at 4pm. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the ALS Assoc. Florida Chapter, 3242 Parkside Center Circle, Tampa, FL 33619. A special thanks to Debbie's closest friends, the ALS Assoc., Hospice House, her doctors and nurses and especially Trish Childress and Dr. Christine Neilson. FMHS 1969

FORT MYERS NEWS PRESS, Feb. 9, 1932--Funeral services for John Sellers, winter resident from Birmingham, Ala., will be held at 3 o'clock this afternoon at the chapel of the Lawrence A. Powell funeral home. Mr. Sellers died early Sunday morning at his home, 943 Hannah street, following a lingering illness. The Rev. E. N. Philpot will be in charge of the religious service. Active pallbearers will be Cox Andrews, Corley Bryant, Mr. Fountain, R. L. Williams, J. P. Cox and Ben P. King. Honorary pallbearers will be A. R. Stansifer, C. O. Courtney, W. W. Stewart, P. Williams and Solomon Hires. Burial will be in the Fort Myers cemetery. Mr. Sellers came to Fort Myers five months ago.

Fort Myers News-Press May 4, 2006 Vercil Frederich Senseman, D.V.M., 75, of Fort Myers, passed away Monday, May 1, 2006. He was born September 3, 1930 in Dayton, Ohio to the late Vercil E. and Helene H. Senseman. The family moved to Fort Myers in 1940. Vercil attended Fort Myers High School with the class of 1948. He joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1948, served in the Korean War and was honorably discharged after 7 years. Vercil held a Bachelor's Degree in Animal Husbandry from the University of Florida and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Auburn University in Auburn, AL. He returned to Fort Myers after graduation from Auburn and opened North Shore Animal Hospital in North Fort Myers on March 3, 1963 and retired from practice in 1993. Vercil was a founder of the Emergency Veterinary Clinic in Fort Myers, was one of the founders of Canterbury School, a member of Caloosa, Florida and American Veterinary Associations, Boy Scout Leader, member of Tropical Masonic Lodge, #56 F. & A.M., Scottish Rite, York Rite and worked with the Demolay Chapter for boys, sponsored by the Masonic Lodge. He was also a member of the Kiwanis, Sons of the American Revolution, Lee County Humane Society and was founder of the Fort Myers Civil War Roundtable. He was an avid collector of war memorabilia, having his own private museum and library. Dr. Senseman is survived his wife of 56 years, Lois Ann (Heusted) Senseman, whom he married on October 28, 1950. He is also survived by his children: Teresa Ann Kincade (William), Dr. Sharon Jane Powell (Jonny), Dr. Karen Jean Griffis (Michael), Robert Vercil Senseman and Vercil Frederick Senseman, Jr.; grandchildren: Joshua Senseman, Jessie Senseman, Ashley Senseman, Dalton Senseman, Matthew Kincade, Daniel Griffis, Emily Griffis and Jacklyn Griffis. Funeral services will be conducted at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 2635 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers on Saturday, May 6, 2006 at 1:00 PM. Private entombment will follow in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to the Lee County Humane Society, Animal Refuge Center or C.R.O.W. Arrangement have been entrusted to Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., 239-936-0555.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, December 28, 1986 - Jay H. Sentell, 55, of 3085 Central Ave. died in Belle Glade on Friday. A native of Knoxville, Tenn., he had been a resident of Fort Myers for the past 27 years and was a member of American Legion Post #38. He is survived by his wife, Mary Sentell of Fort Myers; one son, Scott Sentell of Tallahassee, Fla.; three daughters, Jaynene McKellen and Carla Sentell, bort of Ft. Myers and Jerri Hendry of Bradenton, Fla.; one brother, Bobby Sentell of Charleston, SC; his mother, Virginia Sentell of Ft. Myers; 2 grandchildren, Amy and Marie Hendry. Funeral services will be conducted from the graveside of Alva Cemetery Monday afternoon at 2:30 p.m. with Rev. Walter Hickman, officiating. The family will receive friends this evening from 7-9 p.m. at the Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, October 18, 1993 - Virginia O. Sentell, 85, of Fort Myers, died October 17, 1993. A native of Knoxville, Tenn. she moved here in 1953.  She was preceded in death by a son Jay and a daughter Donna. Mrs. Sentell is survived by a son Bobby (Ruth) Sentell, Charleston, SC; a dear friend, Wally Yeomans, Ft. Myers, 8 grandchildren, Gene Sentell, NY, Scott Sentell, Tallahassee, FL, Ronald Sentell, Charleston, SC, Jerry Hendry, Bradenton, FL, Jayene McKellen & Carla Sentell of Ft. Myers, Karen Sentell, Vermont and Michelle Morris, NC; a daughter-in-law Mary Sentell of Fort Myers and 5 great grandchildren. Funeral services will be conducted Tues. at 3:00 p.m. from the chapel of Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd., with Dr. Irving Herrick, pastor of Central Baptist Church officiating.  Burial will be in Alva Cemetery.  The family will receive friends today from 7 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Fort Myers News-Press, Feb 2 2005-- Sam Sepielli, 65, of N. Ft. Myers died February 1, 2005, he was born in Niagara Falls, NY, a son of the later Guy and Emma Sepielli. He moved to the east coast of Florida in 1949 and the local area in 1981. Sam and his brother John were site contractors in Florida for many years, they worked for Florida Power and Light and also were the site contractors for the Bell Tower in Ft. Myers. Sam enjoyed buying and selling real estate, his wife and children were his life and he enjoyed the chance of life. Mr. Sepielli is survived by his wife of 29 years Virginia, his children Melissa, Guy, both of Ft. Myers, Jennifer of Tampa, his sister Vera Mulkey of Hollywood, his brother John of N. Ft. Myers, his sister-in-law and her husband Rosemary and Albert Luzietti and many nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends at the Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home on Thursday from 6-7:30. There will be a remembrance service held at 7:30 to 8:00. A funeral service celebrating his life will be conducted in the funeral home on Friday at 11:00 AM. In his memory, memorial contributions may be made to National Kidney Foundation of Florida, 1040 Woodstock Road, Suite 119, Orlando, FL 32803. Interment will be in Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Caloosa Belle June 12, 2009 LABELLE - Helen Cook Green Sessions, age 83, of LaBelle, passed away June 10, 2009, in Fort Myers. She was born Aug. 29, 1925, in Plant City to the late James William and late Rosa Velma (McGill) Cook. She was a longtime resident of LaBelle. Survivors include daughters, Elizabeth Ann Barnes (Charles) of LaBelle, and Carlene Whidden (Johnny) of LaBelle; brother, Robert E. Cook of Okeechobee; nine grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and three great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son, Carl Green Jr. Cremation Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

The News-Press, 9/28/2008 -- Wilma K. Sessions, 84, of Fort Myers, passed away on Friday, September 26, 2008. She was loved by many, and will be missed by all. Visitation will be on Wednesday, October 1, 2008, at Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home in Ft. Myers, from 10-11 am, with a funeral service to follow at 11 am. Interment at Lee Memorial Park Cemetery, (239) 334-4880.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - February 1, 1977 William G. Settle of the Sunland Training Center died Sunday. He is survived by his mother and father, Mrs. and Mrs. Ralph Settle; two sisters, Mrs. Julia Williams and Mrs. Faith Brasher, and two brothers, Ralph Settle Jr. and John Settle. Funeral service will be held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the chapel of the Harvey Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd, with the Rev. John O'Bannon officiating. Burial will be at Fort Myers Cemetery. Friends may call at the Harvey Funeral Home tonight from 7 to 9 p.m. Harvey Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Fort Myers News-Press Feb 6, 2009 Godfrey Seward, Jr., age 7, of Fort Myers passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2009. Born on August 27, 2001 in Fort Myers he was a beautiful son born to Dominique Henderson and Godfrey Seward, Sr. Godfrey loved to eat, was loved by many and brought joy and smiles to everyone who knew him. He attended Buckingham Elementary and truly was an angel.Those left to cherish his memories are his mother and father, two sisters, one brother and many relatives and special friends.Visitation for family and friends will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2009 from 9 - 11 am at the Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd., Fort Myers. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 am with Dr. Benny McLeod of the Mt. Sinai Baptist Church officiating. Burial will follow at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens. Memorials in honor of Godfrey may be made to Anderson Funeral Home with all proceeds going to his immediate family

Laurie Seward

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Nov. 1, 1931--Mrs. Pauline Shadwald, 68 years of age, a resident of Fort Myers for 13 years, died yesterday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. A. A. Gardner, near Alva. Mrs. Shadwald had been ill but a short time. Her Fort Myers' home is at the corner of Second street and Royal Palm avenue. L. W. Engelhardt and Son has charge of the body. There will be no funeral service here. The body will be sent to Minneapolis tonight for burial. In addition to Mrs. Garadner, Mrs. Shadwald is survived by another daughter, Mrs. Frank Stanton, of Robertsville, Minn.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Feb. 28, 1935--Funeral services for Eugene H. Shanahan, former Sanibel island citizen, will be held at 3 o'clock tomorrow afternoon at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel on First street with Rev. F. A. Shore officiating. Mr. Shanahan died Tuesday at the Jackson Memorial hospital in Miami and short services were held there yesterday before the body was returned to Fort Myers. Mr. Shanahan was born in Key West of a prominent Florida family in 1878 and entered the government light house service at the age of 21 years. He had charge of light houses at Miami and Sanibel island and more recently had been employed by the government on Lake Okeechobee. He was a member of the Elks, Odd Fellows, W. W. W., Red Men and White Temple. He is survived by his wife, two children, four sisters and two brothers.

Fort Myers News-Press, Feb 8 2005-- Helen Marie Shanahan, 89, of Ft. Myers died Sunday, February 6, 2005. She was born in Atmore, AL to Elmer and Louise (Bauer) Bronstrup (deceased) and grew up in Mt. Healthy, OH. She moved to the Iona area of Ft. Myers with her family as a teenager and graduated from Ft. Myers High School. Helen was married to Roland Shanahan (deceased) for 62 years. They were members of Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church and its Forever Young Group. They enjoyed many years of boating and fishing. Helen enjoyed sewing, gardening, reading, and taking care of her pets. She also loved spending time with her family and friends and was grateful for the long and full life that she lived. Helen is survived by a large loving family who will greatly miss her. They include her three children, Carolyn (Jack) Gibson of Ft. Myers; Janice Brown of Cambridge, MA; Roland (Brenda) Shanahan of Port St. Joe, FL; 18 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; a great-great grandson expected any day; sister-in-laws Margaret (Shanahan) Chrystie of Plantation, FL and Norma (Shanahan) Millican of Brevard, NC; and many special nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her sister Ruth Trippel and brothers Alan and Linn Bronstrup, all of Mt. Healthy. A memorial service will be held at Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home on Thursday at 2:00 p.m. following visitation at 1:00 p.m.

FORT MYERS PRESS, June 12, 1913--Henry Shanahan, the well known keeper of the Sanibel light, died Sunday morning at about 1 o'clock, following an illness of but short duration. Mr. Shanahan, who was in his 60th year, was stricken suddenly with paralysis Friday night while talking to several of his children. He was apparently feeling well and was joking with them, when suddenly his speech left him and he fell forward out of his chair. Assistance was at once sent for, and Dr. F. K. Armstrong, who responded, worked hard to save him, his efforts however, being of no avail, dealth finally ending the suffering. Mr. Shanahan was one of the oldest residents of this section of the state, having been keeper of the Sanibel light for 24 years, and was a man who was loved and most highly respected by all who knew him. He was in every true sense one of God's own noblemen and hundreds of his friends live to cherish in their memory some one or many of his kind words and deeds. Mr. Shanahan is survived by a number of children and grandchildren, among whom are the following living in Lee county: Webb, Eugene, Henry, jr., Grinnell, Mrs. Tom Williams, Mrs. Frank Dana and Mrs. D. Swint. The body was shipped by the steamer Mildred this morning to Key West, where interment will be made.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Nov. 5., 1933--Henry L. Shanahan, 74-year-old farmer and fishing guide of Iona, died at the Lee Memorial hospital early yeaterday morning as the result of severe injuries received in an automobile accident Thursday afternoon. His injuries included concussion of the brain and physicians had given up hopes of saving his life 48 hours before he died without having regained consciousness. Mr. Shanahan had lived in Lee county for 40 years and had hundreds of friends among the early pioneers and the winter residents. He was born in Key West and moved to Sanibel Island when he was seven years old. At that time his father was lighthouse keeper, a capacity in which Mr. Shanahan also served as a young man. For the past 20 years, Mr. Shanahan has lived at Iona, being engaged alternately at farming and guiding. Mr. Shanahan is survived by his wife, four children, four sisters and two brothers. Before their marriage, his wife was Miss Bama Swint of Sanibel. His children are Norma, Margaret, Edna and Roland. Another daughter, Emily, died as the result of a fall in the Sanibel lighthouse. His brothers are Gene Shanahan of Miami and Webb Shanahan of Sanibel. His sisters are Mrs. Leonard Santini of San Carlos, Mrs. Johnnie Roberts of Key West, Ada Shanahan of Iona, and Miss Mattie Swint of Tampa. Mr. Shanahan was a member of the Iona Community church. Funeral services will be held at 3 o'clock this afaternoon at the L. W. Engelhardt and Sons funeral chapel of McGregor boulevard. Rev. Hubert Dodd will officiate. Pallbearers will be Harrison Woodring, Grover Hackney, John Bane, Carl Henschen, Roscoe McLane and Fred Chappel.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Oct. 29, 1950--A pioneer Sanibel resident, Mrs. Irene Rutland Shanahan, 85, died yesterday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. K. Padgett, 1215 Monroe Street. Mrs. Shanahan was born in Montgomery, Ala., Nov. 1, 1864, and lived most of her life on Sanibel Island where her husband, the late Henry Shanahan, kept the lighthouse for 25 years. The Shanahans were noted for the hospitality they extended to visitors and excursion parties which made the trip to the island in the days before Fort Myers Beach became popular as a resort. For the past several years Mrs. Shanahan made her home here with her daughter. Mrs. Shanahan is survived by Mrs. Padgett, two sons, Clarence Rutland of Sanibel and Grinnel Shanahan of New York, and four stepchildren, Webb Shanahan, Mrs. Leonard Santini, Mrs. John Roberts and Mrs. Mattie Swint. Funeral services will be held today at 2:30 p.m. at the Leo W. Engelhardt funeral home with the Rev. Charles Milligan officiating. Interment will be in Fort Myers cemetery. Pallbearers will be Roland Shanahan, Curry Wiles, Robert Mitchel, Francis Bailey, Herman Frank and Louis Wiles.

Fort Myers News-Press 6 May 2008 John DeRemer Shanklin, 91, died Sunday, May 4, at Hope Hospice in Bonita Springs, Florida. Known to friends and family as Jack, he was born November 27, 1916 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Shelby and Eleanor DeRemer Shanklin. He married Elizabeth Jackson on July 18, 1938. They celebrated their 69th anniversary this past summer. Also surviving are three daughters, Susan Shanklin Threlkel, Brevard, NC, Mary Shanklin Pringos, Altheimer, AR, Sally Shanklin Rosser and her husband Paul, Atlanta, GA; three grandchildren, Shelby Threlkel Weisberg and her husband James, Atlanta, GA, Leigh Hays Threlkel, Mill Valley, CA, Carey Elizabeth Rosser, a senior at Georgia Tech University, two step grandchildren, Paul Rosser, Jr., and Mary Rosser Bouvard, two great grandchildren, Justin Hays Weisberg and Andrew Stewart Weisberg, Atlanta, GA, a sister, Barbara Shanklin Cornwell, Ft. Myers and a sister-in-law, Harriett McWhorter Shanklin, Lexington, KY and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Shelby Shanklin, Jr., a son-in-law, Lawrence Theodore Pringos and a brother-in-law, Nat Spoon Cornwell.Mr. Shanklin's family relocated in 1919 to Clearwater, Florida and following graduation from high school he moved to Lexington, Kentucky to attend the University of Kentucky. He earned a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1938. Marriage soon followed and the honeymoon journey began immediately after the ceremony. The destination was Fort Myers and Pinellas Gladiolus, Inc., a business managed by his father that had been forced southward three years earlier to take advantage of more favorable climate conditions. Construction had just been completed on cold storage and flower packing facilities and his career was centered on the expansion and diversification of this company to include potted plants and chrysanthemums. During World War II he served as a flight engineer on a B29 in the US Army Air Force.Throughout his career he was an innovator and a visionary, introducing and implementing new concepts to the industry. Mr. Shanklin was the organizer and president of the Florida Flower Association. Their purpose was to include representation of all floral producers in the state by protecting rail services and rates, establishing and operating refrigerated truck service and maintaining cooperation with state and federal research agencies.He was a director and president of the Society of American Florists, a national trade association, chartered by Congress to represent all branches of the flower business.He also served as an organizing director and treasurer of Fort Myers Federal Savings and Loan.Mr. Shanklin was always a committed and involved citizen. He was a member and examiner on the Civil Service Board and filled an interim appointment on City Council. He was a director, the treasurer and president of Lee Memorial Hospital, where he organized the Hospital Auxiliary. He was a trustee of Edison Community College and a charter member of the Royal Palm Yacht Club. A member of the Cypress Lake Country Club, he served as president. As a senior active member he performed thirty-two years of service in the Ft. Myers Rotary Club, also assuming the role of president. At the request of the Principal of Orangewood Elementary School, he organized the PTA and served as its first president. He was also an Elder and a Trustee at First Presbyterian Church.Mr. Shanklin was a loving and devoted husband and father. There is nothing so gentle as real strength and that strong gentleness and his integrity were what family, friends and business associates respected and admired.He had a love for fishing, golf and spending the summer months in the mountains of western North Carolina. The Shanklins enjoyed a part-time residence in Highlands, NC for many years and were members of the Wildcat Cliffs Country Club.Donors should choose how they express their sympathy. Should one elect flowers, it is suggested that they be given to a church, a hospital or some other venue where they might benefit a larger number of people. Donation to the charity of your choice is always appropriate. Kind thoughts and prayers are most acceptable.A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 10 at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens. Following the service, the family will receive friends at Cypress Lake Country Club.Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., 239-936-0555 and condolences may be sent through their web site at:www.fortmyersmemorial.com.

THE FORT MYERS DAILY PRESS, Sept. 25, 1915 - Emily Maria Shannahan, the four-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Shannahan, died at 3 o'clock this morning at the home of Mr.and Mrs. T. M. Wiliams of Cottage Street, following an illness of some time. Funeral services were held over the remains at 9 o'clock by Rev. E. F. Ley of the Methodist Church.  The little body was taken to Sanibel, the home of the bereaved parents for interment.  The funeral arrangements were in charge of the Carl F. Roberts Co., directors. NOTE:  She is listed on the DAR list as Emily Maria Sannabau.

THE FORT MYERS PRESS, April 17, 1902 - After an illness of a little over a week, Mrs. Gene Shannahan passed away on Friday night at 9:15 o'clock. She leaves a grif stricken husband, a dear little baby girl, only three and a half years old, besides mother, sisters and brothers to mourn her loss. Roxie, for by his name she was best known, was conscious to the end.  She knew her friends and seemed to realize this was her lastillness.  During her illness she sang frequently, "what a Friend we have in Jesus" and "footsteps of Jesus," being among her favorites. Thus ,one who, but nineteen years of age passes from us, and we sorrow and mourn our loss, but not as for one gone forever, only gone before, where she will await with beckoning hands those who are left behind. Weep not dear friends for she is happy now where no sorrow nor pain ever cometh. The remains were interred in the cemetery here just as the sun had sunk on Saturday evening, while sympathizing friends gathered to witness all that was mortal of the dear one laid away in its long resting place. In behalf of all friends we extend sympathy to each of the bereaved ones.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Sat., March 25, 1961--Webster Shannahan, 76, died late Thursday. Born in Key West, he moved to Sanibel when he was four and has lived there since. He was retired from the U. S. Post Office where he had served on Sanibel for 34 years. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Catherine Williams, Sanibel, and Mrs. Lorraine Cannon, Homeland Park, N. C., one son, Gernald Shannahan, one sister, Mrs. Leonard Santini, Fort Myers, and four grandchildren. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by the harvey Funeral Home.

FORT MYERS PRESS, November 15, 1984 - John Oakley Shannon, 73, of Welch St., Ft. Myers, died Wednesday. A 25-year resident of the Fort Myers area, formerly of Ft. Lauderdale. Mr. Shannon is survived by one sister, Ava L. Thullen of Fort Myers; one brother, Eli Shannon of London, Ohio and three nephews. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday at 11:oo a.m. from the chapel of the Harvey Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd. with Rev. Jeff Remsland officiating. Private interment will follow. The family will receive friends from 2-4 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Ft Myers News-Press, January 17, 2001 - Charles A. Shaw, 78, North Fort Myers, passed away Saturday, January 13, 2001. He was born at Indianapolis and was a retired experimental welder with G.M. Allison. He was an Army veteran of WWII serving in the European Theater. He was an active member of the V.F.W. Post 261, Lawrence, IN and Post 10127, North Fort Myers where he had been Post Commander at both. He was a member of the American Legion, formerly the Chief of Civil Defense in Indianapolis and was an instructor with the Indiana Midwest Scuba Club. He had been a Scout Master with the Boy Scouts in Indianapolis and had been affiliated with the Lawrence Fire Dept. He currently had been a security Guard with the Textile Service, Inc. Mr. Shaw is survived by his son, Steven (Linda) Shaw, Indianapolis; a daughter, Diana (Johnny) Garcia, Corpus Christi, TX; a brother, Ernest (Alice) Shaw, Fort Myers; a sister, Georgia Bellis, Indianapolis; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the North Fort Myers Memorial Funeral Home with funeral services celebrated at the funeral home chapel at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Lee Memorial Park Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Feb. 1, 1933--Claud D. Shaw, 42, died yeterday at the Lee Memorial hospital from injuries received Saturday when a boiler fell upon him at the Strickland lumber mill at Bonita Springs. Mr. Shaw was taken to the hospital Sunday. He is survived by a widow and four children. The three sons are F. D., Edward and Carl Shaw. One daughter, Margaret, survives. Mr. Shaw had been connected with lumber mills for several years. He had been employed at the Strickland plant in Bonita Springs for two years. Funeral services will be held at 10 o'clock this morning at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel, with the Rev. G. C. Powell officiating. Burial will be in the Fort Myers cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Aug. 30, 1935--Members of St. Xavier's Catholic church will gather to say the rosary for Mrs. Elizabeth Sheasley at her home on the Tamiami Trail at 7:45 o'clock tonight. Mrs. Sheasley died yesterday morning. Funeral service will be announced later and Lawrence A. Powell will have charge of arrangements. Mrs. Sheasley is survived by her husband, Herbert W. Sheasley, two sisters, Miss Irene Gahles of Fort Myers and Mrs. C. L. Meehan of Alequeppa, Pa.,; and five brothers, George A. Gahles of Cleveland, O., Leo J. Gahles of New Castle, Pa., Edward Gahles of Fort Myers, Thomas D. Gahles and Dr. E. M. Gahles of Beaver Falls, Pa.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, April 28, 1936--Miss Marian Sheen, 28, died last night at Lee Memoriah Hospital after a short illness. Miss Sheen has spent the winter at Captiva with Mr. and Mrs. F. B. Pearce of Bristol, Virginia. she is survived by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frederick sheen of Bristol. The body will be shipped today to Bristol for interment. Lawrence A. Powell has charge of arrangements.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, March 21, 1936--Funeral services for J. W. Shelley, school teacher who died at Boca Grande, will be held in Arcadia at 2 o'clock this afternoon instead of 3 o'clock as previously announced. The services will be held at the First Baptist Church in Arcadia. Mr. Shelley was well known in Fort Myers having taught here for 10 years and once served as principal of Junior high school.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2005-03-23 Eva O. Shellhouse, age 83, of Bonita Springs, Florida, died Monday, March 21, 2005 at North Collier Hospital in Naples. She was born November 12, 1919 in Amanda, Ohio to Granville and Nora Hobbs Stebelton. She had been a resident of Bonita Springs since 1958. She was a dispatcher for the Lee County Sheriff's Office from 1969 to 1981 and was a member of The First Baptist Church of Bonita Springs. She is survived by two sons, Gordon Shellhouse and Roger Shellhouse both of Bonita Springs, three daughters, Jean Johnson, Barbara Lynn Havard and Cynthia Ann Englund all of Bonita Springs, one brother, Max Stebelton of Amanda, Ohio, two sisters, Ruby Hansley of Lancaster, Ohio and Marilyn Queen of Immakolee, FL, ten grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lester "Shorty" Shellhouse in 1999, a son Dennis G. Shellhouse in 1995 and a granddaughter, Ginger Gallander in 1997. A memorial service to celebrate Eva's life will be held on Thursday, March 24, 2005 at the First Baptist Church of Bonita Springs at 7:00 PM with Reverend Ernie Harvard officiating. Burial will be in Bonita Springs Cemetery. Walter Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements. Walter Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press, 1999-06-25-- Lester R. (Shorty) Shellhouse, 83, of Bonita Springs, died June 23, 1999 at his residence after a lengthy illness. Mr. Shellhouse has been a resident of Bonita Springs since 1958 coming from Miami, FL. Mr. Shellhouse was a former employee of Lee County for over 23 years retiring in 1980. Mr. and Mrs. Shellhouse celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary Oct. 14, 1998. Shorty is survived by his wife, Eva Shellhouse of Bonita Springs; two sons: Lester R. (Leeann) Shellhouse and Gordon Lee Shellhouse both of Bonita Springs; three daughters: Jean (Jim) Johnson of Bonita Springs, Barbara Lynn (John) Harvard of Arcadia, FL and Cynthia Ann Shellhouse of Lacy Springs, AL; half brother, William Dubois, of Pheonix City, AL; 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Shorty was preceded in death by a son, Dennis G. Shellhouse in 1995 and a granddaughter, Ginger Gallander in 1997. A Memorial Service will be held Friday, June 25, 1999 at 7:00 p.m. at Walter Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home. Burial will be in Bonita Springs Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press, 12 Dec 2005 -- Army Corporal Jimmy Lee Shelton, age 21, of Alva, was killed Dec. 3, 2005 in Bayji, Iraq. He was born Apr. 15, 1984 in Belle Glade. He was a member of B-Troop, 1st Squadron, 33rd Calvary, Iron Rakkasans, 101st Airborne, from Ft. Campbell, Kentucky. Jimmy was a recipient of the Army Commendation Award and the Purple Heart for his service in Iraq. He was a member of Gunnery Road Baptist Church in Buckingham. Survivors include his father and mother: Burgess and Billi-Jo Shelton of Alva, Donna Manger, mother and her husband Doug of Belle Glade, brothers: Burgess A. Shelton Jr. of Savannah, GA and Douglas Shelton of Clewiston and a sister: Jennifer Reese of Belle Glade. maternal grandparents: Arce and Zora Salvador of Athens, TN and maternal grandparents, William and Bonnie Mahlbacher of Fort Myers. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Nathan Shelton. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 13, 2005, 10:00 a.m. at Riverside Baptist Church, 8660 Daniels Parkway, Fort Myers with Pastor Terry Vance and Pastor Dick Riley officiating. Military Honors and interment will be Friday, Dec. 16, 2005 at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA.

Fort Myers News-Press May 27, 2009 Jeanette Griffin Shepherd, 81, a native of Fort Myers, died peacefully Saturday, May 23 after a long illness. Jeanette was the loving mother of Dick Galley, grandmother of David and Karen Galley, great-grandmother of David Frazier and aunt of Cindy Carver and Pam Krass. She is also survived by her brother, Milton Griffin, her sister and brother-in-law Ruth and Norb Krass, many nieces and nephews and a multitude of close friends. Jeanette grew up in Fort Myers and married Jack Galley, who was stationed at Buckingham Army Air Force base during World War II in 1944. They moved to Cincinnati Ohio in 1946 where Jeanette worked at WCPO Television during its infancy. In 1959 she went to work with Cincinnati Rotary Club, where she worked for 33 years, becoming the first woman Executive Secretary of a Rotary in the United States in 1984. Upon her retirement in 1992, she returned to Fort Myers where she remained active in the local Rotary until her death. Jeanette was active in many other community activities, including volunteering at the HealthPark Medical Center and was a true Customer Service ambassador for the Lee Memorial Health System. Jeanette enjoyed tennis and represented both the Cross Creek and Legends tennis clubs as a player and organizer for their women's senior teams. Jeanette will be sadly missed by all who knew her. According to her wishes, there will be no memorial service. Donations in her name may be directed to the Southwest Florida Community Foundation, 8260 College Parkway, Suite 101, Fort Myers, FL 33919

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, March 30, 1938--Mrs. Mary Dorothy Shepherd of 329 Third street, 72-year-old wife of William J. Shepherd died yesterday after a long illness. Mrs. Shepherd came to Fort Myers four years ago from Ozark, O., and was a member of the First Methodist church here. Mrs. Shepherd is survived by her husband, four sons, W. L. Shepherd of Fort Myers, G. D. Shepherd of Chicago, F. L. Shepherd of Bethel, Conn. and R. D. Shepherd of Hobart, Ind., and two daughters, Mrs. W. C. Brown of Fort Myers and Mrs. C. W. Russell of Brooklyn, N. Y. Funeral arrangements to be made by Spooner and Engelhardt will be announced later.

Published in The News-Press from 10/3/2008 - 10/4/2008 Stephen (Steve) J. Sheplak Jr., of Fort Myers, FL passed away October 1, 2008 at 47 years old. He was the beloved and cherished husband for 29 years of Kim Sheplak and a loving devoted father of Stephen Sheplak III. Steve also leaves behind his Aunt and Uncle, Esther and Chuck Houck who he loved like a mother and father as well as many other family members that were very dear and close to his heart. He cherished life with his family and tried to make the most of each day. Steve loved life and lived it to the fullest on his own terms. His favorite past-times were golfing and fishing and watching the Boston Red Sox play. Steve was an honorable man and the most forthright person anyone could ever meet and will forever be in our thoughts and hearts.Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 5th 10-11 am, at Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers. Funeral Services will be held at 11 am, with interment to follow at Lee Memorial Park. The Sheplak family requests in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to Hope Hospice, 9470 Healthpark Cir., Fort Myers, Fl 33908. Condolences may be viewed and offered at: www.harvey-engelhardt-metz.com.

Fort Myers News-Press May 27, 2009 Jeanette Griffin Shepherd, 81, a native of Fort Myers, died peacefully Saturday, May 23 after a long illness. Jeanette was the loving mother of Dick Galley, grandmother of David and Karen Galley, great-grandmother of David Frazier and aunt of Cindy Carver and Pam Krass. She is also survived by her brother, Milton Griffin, her sister and brother-in-law Ruth and Norb Krass, many nieces and nephews and a multitude of close friends. Jeanette grew up in Fort Myers and married Jack Galley, who was stationed at Buckingham Army Air Force base during World War II in 1944. They moved to Cincinnati Ohio in 1946 where Jeanette worked at WCPO Television during its infancy. In 1959 she went to work with Cincinnati Rotary Club, where she worked for 33 years, becoming the first woman Executive Secretary of a Rotary in the United States in 1984. Upon her retirement in 1992, she returned to Fort Myers where she remained active in the local Rotary until her death. Jeanette was active in many other community activities, including volunteering at the HealthPark Medical Center and was a true Customer Service ambassador for the Lee Memorial Health System. Jeanette enjoyed tennis and represented both the Cross Creek and Legends tennis clubs as a player and organizer for their women's senior teams. Jeanette will be sadly missed by all who knew her. According to her wishes, there will be no memorial service. Donations in her name may be directed to the Southwest Florida Community Foundation, 8260 College Parkway, Suite 101, Fort Myers, FL 33919

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, March 31, 1942-- Paul H. Shepard, 81, long time Lee County resident, died yesterday at the home of his son, Hugh M. Shepard, at the Floweree grove in Alva. Mr. Shepard, who was born Nov. 4, 1860, in Kansas, came to Lee County in 1904 and has lived in Florida ever since. Funeral services will be held at the graveside in the Ft. Denaud Cemetery at 2 o'clock this afternoon. The Rev. J. D. Reavis will officiate, while arrangements are in charge of Lawrence A. Powell. Survivors include a sister, Mrs. Hattie Drake of Fullerton, Cal.; a daughter, Mrs. Bessie S. Taylor of Immokalee; three sons, Hugh of Alva, Lisle H. of Longwood, Fla., and J. A. Shepard of Ft. Lauderdale. In addition, he leaves 17 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Fort Myers News-Press Sep 2, 1998 Mary Woolslair Sheppard, 91, of Fort Myers, passed away August 30, 1998. She was a native of Lee County, her parents coming to Fort Myers in 1898. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, W.A. Sheppard, her daughter, Mary Ellen and son, Bill. She is survived by her son, John Sheppard of Fort Myers; nine grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Mrs. Sheppard was devoted to her family, her friends and her church. Service of life celebration will be conducted Thursday, at 10:30 a.m. at the Pilgrims Church, at the corner of Daniels Road and Freshman Lane. Family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home 1600 Colonial Blvd. Memorial contributions may be made to the Pilgrims Church Nursery Fund of the charity of choice.

Fort Myers News-Press, 29 Oct 2006 -- Virginia R. Sheppard of Lake Placid and Fort Myers, Florida, died at her home in Lake Placid in the loving arms of her husband of 12 years, on October 26, 2006, after a short illness of brain cancer.She was born in Fort Myers to the late Robert Shepherd (Shep) Bass and Ruth Virginia Bass. Ginger as she was known, loved life and all of its wonders. Bear Island in Collier County, which at one time was owned by the Bass Family was a favorite of hers, as was the Gulf of Mexico for salt water fishing. After her husband retired from the practice of law in Fort Myers, they began a new adventure of their lives by moving to Lake Placid. They lived and fished on beautiful Lake Grassy and Lake Istokpoga. She was a member of the Board of Directors of DeeAnn Lakefront Estates and Chairman of the Garden Committee. The premises are beautiful thanks to Ginger and those who helped her. Ginger had been a Florist and a Sales Person before she married her husband Walter O. Sheppard, Jr.She is survived by her husband, her children, Keri R. Richards, Carroll S. Duncan (J. Thomas) Barbara S. Andrews, (Richard) Walter O. Sheppard III, Lucinda S. Sheppard, her grandchildren, Sarah L. Fisher (James), Daniel W. Richards, Jr., Jena Walldroff (Chad) Gabe Purser, Richard Andrews, Alex Andrews, Lauren A. Sheppard, her great-grandchildren, Lexis M. Fisher, Caitlyn H. fisher and Kathrine R. Walldroff, and her niece Beverly Bass Stawicki. Her brother, Robert Shepherd Bass, Jr. predeceased her as did her parents. Visitation will be held Monday, October 30, 2006 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Phil Kiser Funeral Home, 9231 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers, Florida. Graveside services will be held the morning of Tuesday, October 31, 2006 at 11 a.m. at the Old Fort Myers Cemetery.Ginger loved flowers, however, in lieu of flowers, her desire was that donations be made to Good Shepherd Hospice, 2121 SE Lakeview Drive, Sebring, Florida 33870 or Hope Hospice, 9470 Health Park Circle, Fort Myers, Florida 33908. Ginger was our Beautiful and Wonderful Southern Lady! We love you dearly, Ginger. Godspeed to your Heavenly Destination.Kiser Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press Jul 18, 1998 William A. (Bill) Sheppard, Jr., 69, of Evergreen, CO, died Tuesday following a long illness. Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, June who resides at 2887 Witter Gulch Road, Evergreen, CO., 80439; six sons and their wives: William A. III (Mike) and Colleen, Jeff and Mary, Dan and Lita (Fort Myers), Matt and Barbara, Steve and Jill, Tim and Darla, and seventeen grandchildren. He is also survived by his mother, Mary Sheppard and brother, John Sheppard both of Fort Myers. Bill attended Fort Myers High School, graduating in 1947, and graduated from the University of FL. Law School in 1953. He practiced law with the firm of Sheppard and Woolslair, until 1963 when he and his family moved to Princton, NJ., where Bill received a Divinity Degree and was ordained by the United Presbyterian Church. Bill and June then moved to Northglen, CO. where he and June organized the Good Sheppard Presbyterian Church which he served for years. He later was in private law practice in Northglen and served as Municipal Judge. Later, he was the innovator of a complete Paralegal Degree Program at Denver Community College in which he taught until his retirement several years ago. A memorial service will be held in Northglen, CO. on Wednesday at the Good Sheppard Church he founded. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to the National Parkinsons Foundation, Inc., 1501 N.W. 9th Ave./ Bob Hope Road Miami, FL. 33136 of the charity of choice.

Fort Myers News-Press June 25, 2009 Joseph L. Sherman passed away peacefully on June 23, 2009 at the age of 90. He was born in Rush, PA on October 7, 1918. Joe was a graduate of Penn State University with a major in agriculture, and he taught agriculture "in the field" rather than the classroom for several years in upstate New York. Joe moved to Fort Myers in 1957 and started Gulf Cascade Water Conditioning Company. He later became a general contractor with his own company, J.L. Sherman, Inc., and specialized in water and sewage systems. Joe was well-loved by his family and the Fort Myers business community.Joe was an honorary Florida Cracker, and often called himself "a Florida Native by choice." He was also an avid hunter and gun collector. At age 80, Joe built his own house in Dahlonega, GA and dubbed it "Sherman's Mountain." Joe was also a member of the Tropical Masonic Lodge in Fort Myers, and the Fort Myers Elks Club. He was a member of Olga United Methodist Church, and was also a charter member of Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church. Joe is survived by two daughters: Susan S. Bryant and Cheryl Sherman; five grandchildren: Debbie (Rolf) Rathie, Heather Jurgensen, Martin (Meredith) Sherman, Ed Bryant, and David (Anastasia) Bryant; one sister, Barbara Kruley; six great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and longtime companion June Alkunous.A memorial gathering will be held at Anderson-Patterson Cremation & Funeral Services chapel, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd., Fort Myers; 239-694-4121 on Sunday, June 28, 2009 from 1 to 2 pm, with a memorial service starting at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL, 33908; 239-492-4673.

The News-Press, 2/19/2009--Roger G. Sherman, 61, of the Gateway community in Fort Myers, FL passed away on Friday, February 13, 2009. He was born on May 6, 1947 in Bainbridge, New York, to Elvira Sherman Tompkins and Frederick William Sherman. He is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Kathleen Ann; two sons, Gavin Edward and Geoffrey Gordon; his two brothers and three sisters, Carolyn Sherman, Mary Sherman Wilder, Joan Sherman Antonello, William Sherman and Richard Sherman; a special aunt, Geri Sherman Martin and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Roger retired from the AAA Auto Club South after 33 years of dedicated service. He began his career in 1978 and later entered their management training program. Upon completion he served as Division Manager of the Tallahassee branch office, then District Manager of the Fort Myers and Naples branches. Throughout his life, Roger strove to enhance the lives of his fellow man. He served literally hundreds of thousands of individuals over his three decades of AAA service. Additionally, he championed the cause of youth soccer in the area, enriching the lives of thousands of our youth. One of his most notable achievements was his procurement of funding for a soccer/community activity complex which was named in his honor. He also served on several Boards of Directors to enhance the quality of life of his neighbors. Roger was an avid athlete - notably a fierce tennis player. Winning or losing, Roger was always chivalrous, and his opponents and partners had an equally enjoyable time. In all he did, Roger was a team player who never gave up, even over the course of his long struggle with renal cancer. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy continues in the lives of all those who have been touched by his kindness and tenacity. A service of remembrance will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2009, at 2:00 p.m. at the Riverside Baptist Church, 8660 Daniels Parkway, Fort Myers, with Mr. William Van Helden officiating. Following the service, a reception will be held from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Gateway Golf and Country Club, 11360 Championship Drive, Fort Myers. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Roger Sherman's name to either St. Jude Children's Hospital (http://www.stjude.org) or The Kidney Cancer Association (www.kidneycancer.org). Inurnment will be privately administered by Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, Oct. 29, 1927--Funeral services for Betty Sherouse, 10 months old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Sherouse, who died Thursday night were held at the home of her parents 2620 Laura ave. yesterday afternoon by the Rev. M. E. Myers.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, May 5, 1999 -- Carlisle LaGrange 'Cobby' Sherouse, 85, of Fort Myers, died Friday, May 21, 1999, in Fort Myers. The youngest child of Lewis Marion and Cornelia A. Sherouse, he was born October 5, 1913, in Reddick, Fla. He moved to Fort Myers in 1914 with his family. Mr. Sherouse's grandfather, Edgar Smith, became Thomas Edison's gardener, and young Cobby learned to swim in Fort Myers' first swimming pool on the grounds of the Edison Estate. Mr. Sherouse was a graduate of Lee County High School, Class of '34, where he played varsity football and baseball. In addition to assisting his parents in their grocery business, he was a skilled nurseryman. His hobbies included fishing and spectator sports. Mr. Sherouse had been a resident of Shady Rest Nursing Home since 1974. He will always be remembered for his warm and affectionate spirit by all who knew him. He is survived by his sister, Mrs. Ned Hammond of Alexandria, La., and numerous nieces and nephews. Graveside funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 25, 1999, at the City of Fort Myers Cemetery, with the Reverend Al Beck officiating. The family will receive friends Tuesday from noon to 1:00 p.m. at the Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, March 3, 1963 - Clarence W. Sherouse, 67, 3721 Bell St., died yesterday afternoon in Bay Pines Veterans Hospital. He had been a resident here for the past 50 years. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Onie K. Sherouse, Fort Myers; daughters, Mrs. E. L. (Winfred) Hays, Elmhurst, Ill., Mrs. Joyce Hawkins, Mrs. James (Carrie) Taylor, Fort Myers; brothers, Cyril Sherouse, Miami; Carlos M. Sherouse, Denver, Colo.; sisters, Mrs. R. C. Moss, Tice, Mrs. Harry W. Morrow, page Park; and three grandchildren. He was a member of the Edgewood Methodist Church and a veteran of World War I. Funeral arrangements by Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home. Note: Burial in Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens, Lee County, FL Born at Smithville, Marion County, FL

The Miami News, 22 June, 1985-- Cyril M. (Red) Sherouse 72, of Miami on June 21, 1985 following a brief illiness. Came to Miami in 1937 from his native Ft. Myers,FL. He was employed in aircraft & home decorations industries & for many years was a Orange Bowl Scorekeeper. Survived by his loving wife of 48 years Mary Allen Sherouse of Miami, daughter Carole Morris of Orlando, & by his son Mark Allen Sherouse of Dallas,TX; two grandchildren and one brother.A memorial service will held at the First Christian Church of North Dade 175 NW 128th St. Family request that donations be made to the First Christian Church & Hospice, Inc 111 NW 10 Ave. Miami, FL. Burial: Miami Dade Co., FL

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Nov. 30, 1945-- John M. Sherouse, 73, died at 1912 Broadway yesterday morning. He was formerly in the grocery business here. He leaves two daughters, Mrs. R. C. Moss and Mrs. H. W. Marrow of Fort Myers; three sons, Clarence W. Sherouse of Fort Myers, Carlos M. Sherouse of Englewood, Colo., and Cpl. Cyril M. Sherouse, enroute to the Pacific; two brothers, L. M. Sherouse of Fort Myers and T. C. Sherouse of Nocatee; a sister, Mrs. R. L. Denham of Reddick, Fla., and 13 grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon at 3 o'clock from the Edgewood Methodist Church. The Rev. Robert Weaver will officiate. He will be assisted by the Rev. J. H. Culpepper. The following will act as pallbearers; active, James B. Roberts, Dreyfus LaMon, Leon Williams, Earl Hendry, Elmer Davies and John L. Reeser; honorary, John M. Boring, O. B. Blount, N. L. Wine, J. F. Inginger and R. Percy Jones. Interment will be in the Fort Myers cemetery. Lawrence A. Powell is in charge of arrangements.

Ft. Myers Newspress Nov 1988 - Katie ( Onie) I. Sherouse 94, passed away Sunday in South West Regional Medical Center She was born in Fort Odgen, FL.and has been a lifetime resident of Ft. Myers. She was a member of the Edgewood United Methodist Church . She is survived three daughters Winnie Long of North Fort Myers, Joyce Geoffrot and Carrie Taylor of Fort Myers; five grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren. Funeral Services will be at 11:00 am. Friday at the Chapel of Memorial Gardens Funeral Home with the Rev. Wallace Spillman,of the Wesley United Methodist Church, officiating. Friends may visit from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday in the funeral home chapel. Arrangements by Memorial Gardens Funeral Home 1589 Colonial Blvd. Burial in Memorial Gardens private. She was the wife of Clarence Winifred  Sherouse. The daughter of Steven Sloan and Caroline ( Carrie ) Williams of Ft Ogden DeSoto County, FL

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, March 25, 1953-- Lewis Marion Sherouse, 79, died at his home, 215 Second St., yesterday afternoon after a lingering illness. Sherouse came to Fort Myers in 1944 from Marion County and was in the grocery business here until he retired in 1944 because of ill health. Sherouse was born Aug. 12, 1873 at McMeekin, Fla. Survivors include his wife, Cornelia Annette Sherouse; three daughters, Mrs. Dorothy Heath and Mrs. J. G. Jeffcoat of Fort Myers and Mrs. L. J. Moriarty of Alexandria, La.; three sons, Kenneth B. of Miami, R. Leroy of Tampa and Carlisle (Cobby) of Fort Myers; a sister, Mrs. Mae Denham of Reddick; a brother, Tom C. Sherouse of Nocatee; 11 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. A fourth son was the late L. Edgar Sherouse. Active pallearers will be his grandsons and nephews. Funeral arrangements by Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home.

Miami Herald September 14, 2007 SHEROUSE, MARY ALLEN, July 22, 1920-September 9, 2007. Mary Allen Sherouse was born in Savannah, the daughter of Joseph and Portia Allen. She was raised in Frost proof and Ft. Myers, and in 1936 married Cyril Mark Sherouse. The couple moved to Miami, where they resided the next 47 years, were employed, and raised a family. Mary was employed at Eastern Airlines, McCrory's, and later at Miami Shores Realty, and attended First Christian Church. In 1985, Cyril passed away, and she moved to Pembroke Pines. Greatly beloved by her family and many friends, she is survived by her daughter Carole Sherouse Morris and grand-daughter Alexis Cristina Morris of Weston and by her son Mark Allen Sherouse of Missoula, MT and grand- daughters Rebecca Leigh Sherouse of San Francisco and Rachel Laura Sherouse of Washington, DC. A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 15, 2PM, at Parkway Christian Church, 1200 S. Flamingo Road, Davie, FL, 954-476-0020. Arrangements with T.M. RALPH Funeral Home SAWGRASS/WESTON, 371 NW 136th Ave, Sunrise. (954) 587-6888 www.tmralph.com To visit this Guest Book Online, go to www.MiamiHerald.com/obituaries.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Nov. 22, 1936--Mrs. Pearl L. Sherouse, 60-year-old Fort Myers resident, died early yesterday morning at the Lee Memorial hospital after an emergency operation. She had been ill for some time. Mrs. Sherouse had lived on Seminole avenue in East End for the past year and had a wide circle of friends in Fort Myers. Mrs. Sherouse is survived by her husband, John M. Sherouse, three sons, C. W., C. M. and Carlos, two daughters, Mrs. Harry W. Morrow and Mrs. Clyde Ross, two brothers, L. I. Smith of Tampa and A. M. Smith of Farmville, Va., and two sisters, Mrs. I. M. Hinson of Whiteville, N.C. and Mrs. L. M. Sherouse of Fort Myers. Funeral services will be held at 3 o'clock this afternoon at the Edgewood Methodist church with the Rev. H. L. Wiggins officiating. The pallbearers will be J. C. Sumner, J. P. Underwood, Russell W. Underwood, J. F. Infinger, Clarence Clutz and O. B. Blount. Lawrence A. Powell has charge of arrangements.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Sunday, Sept. 24, 1978-- Robert L. Sherouse, 74, of 307 East Emma Ave., Tampa, died Saturday. He is survived by his wife,Virginia;two daughers, Jo Lynne Rundle and Peggy L. McNab; two sisters, Dorothy H. Obrecht of Ft. Myers and Nellie S. Hammond; of LA, one brother, Carlisle L. Sherouse, of Ft. Myers:3 grandchildren and 2 great-grand-children. The funeral will be Monday at the F. T. Blount Funeral Home, 5101 Nebraska Ave., Tampa.

Fort Myers News-Press-- 7 Feb 2007 William H. (Bill) Sherrod, Jr., 65, of Felda, peacefully went to be with the Lord at home with his family by his side on February 4, 2007. Bill was born on May 4, 1941 in Inverness, FL to the late William Horace Sherrod and Grace Mildred Roberts Sherrod. Bill was a devoted husband to his wife of 26 years, Carey Campbell Sherrod, and a loving father to son William L. Sherrod, II, of Los Angeles, CA, and daughters Bethany (Bruce) Corbitt of LaBelle, FL, and Suzanne (Charles) Nickerson of Bonita Springs, FL. He is also survived by his mother Grace Mildred Roberts Sherrod, his brother Phillip (Susan) Sherrod, sister Jane (Lynn) Wood and other extended family, church family, and friends.Bill graduated from the University of Florida with B.S. and M.S. degrees in agriculture. He served as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy piloting helicopters which nurtured his life-long passion for flying. He enjoyed sharing his love of aviation with others as a flight instructor while pursuing an extensive career in agriculture. Bill was an elder and active member of Life Ministries Church in LaBelle, FL. The most important part of Bill's life was his family.A celebration of Bill's life will be held Saturday, February 10th, 10 a.m., at First Baptist Church of Immokalee, 1411 Lake Trafford Road. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be sent to Life Ministries Church designated for the building fund, P.O. Box 1584, LaBelle, FL 33975.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-04-16 -- Harold Nelson Sheuy, born in Dubuque, September 28, 1930 passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on April 13, 2004. Beloved husband of Carmela, father of Monica (Jim) Liguari, Wonderlake, IL, Frank DiMaria of Alva, Al Shuey of Lehigh, Luciana (Jack) Scarpelli of Algonquin, IL; grandfather (PaPa) to Shaun, Michelle, Kevin, Idamarie and Anthony, great-grandfather of (2). Survived by one sister Betty of Loves Park, IL, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Harvey (Doc) Shuey and mother Helen (Salvisberg). Served with proud destinction in the United States Marine Corps for 10 years. Veteran of the Korean War and surviving (POW) Harold went on th serve the Postal Service for 30 years. After retiring from the Postal Service, relocating to Alva, FL with his wife, found Harold working as a driver/instructor for Lee County School Bus Service. Master Mason and an active member of the Ft. Myers Shrine Number 4 (POWS). Harold's greatest accomplishments was the many Christmas wishes he fulfilled protraying Santa Claus. Services will be held at Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church, 705 East Leeland Heights Blvd., Lehigh Acres at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hope Hospice Red Team, 205 East Joel Blvd., Lehigh Acres, FL 33972. Thank-you Harold for being responsible for Alva receiving Postal Home Delivery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - November 28, 1960 Infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Shevitski died Saturday. Survivors in addition to parents are two brothers, Mark and Glenn, sisters Regina, Josephine Elizabeth and Nancy Jane Shevitski of Fort Myers, grandparents Mrs. Walter Bartz of Buffalo, N.Y., E. R. Shevitski, Pa., and Mrs. Frank Gay of Fort Myers. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at Fort Myers Cemetery with Father Patrick Slevin officiating. Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

The News-Press, 7/28/2008 -- William H. Shields, 79, of Fort Myers, FL passed away peacefully at Hope Hospice House on July 24, 2008. Born and raised in Tennessee, he graduated from Maryville College in 1951 where he met his wife. He went on to graduate from the University of Tennessee Law School in 1953. he proudly practiced law for over 36 years, first in the U.S. Army, then in Tennessee before moving to Fort Myers in 1963 where he helped establish a successful law firm. Mr. Shields was dedicated to his work, his family and helping others. he was a proud member of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Valley of Fort Myers. However, he found time to enjoy life and was passionate about countless activities. Some of his greatest pleasures were experienced in Ashe County, NC where he and his wife spent many wonderful summers after their retirement. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Jean P. Shields; one sister, Barbara Shields Thurmer, of Alcoa, Tennessee; two beloved children, David William Shields of Wantage, NJ and Kathy Jean Shields of Tampa, FL; daughter-in-law Kimberly Ann Shields; grandson, Devon Michael Wilson; three nieces and one nephew. Visitation will be held at Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home, 12777 SR 82, Fort Myers, FL 33913 on Wednesday, July 30th at 10:00 AM followed by an 11:00 AM memorial service. A private burial will follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be donated to Hope Hospice House, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908; the First Presbyterian Church, 2438 Second St., Fort Myers, FL 33901 or a charity of your choice. Bill Shields was a loving husband, a dedicated father and a wonderful man who was very active in the Fort Myers community. He will be greatly missed by all.

Fort Myers News-Press, 19 Apr 2005-- Elizabeth Brown Shikany 73, of Bonita Springs, FL passed away Sunday, April 17, 2005 at the Estero Life Care Center. Betty had been a resident of Bonita Springs since 1978 coming from Coral Gables, FL. She was born October 30, 1931 in Gainesville, FL a daughter of the late Judge William F. and Margaret (Dyal) Brown, Jr. She graduated from Ponce de Leon High School and attended the University of Georgia. She was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity. Betty and her husband Walter were married on June 24, 1950 at the Church of the Little Flower in Coral Gables. In 1978, they moved to Bonita Springs and opened Walter Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home which they have operated as a family owned business since. She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Walter R. Shikany, Sr.; four children, Walter R. Shikany, Jr. (Terri) of South Miami, FL, Sharon E. Shikany-Demore (Tom) of Coconut Creek, FL; Gary A. Shikany of Bonita Springs, FL and William B. Shikany (Liz) of Bonita Springs, FL; five grandchildren, Walter R. Shikany, III, Michael Shikany, Christopher T. Green, William J. Shikany and Megan M. Shikany; brother, William D. Brown (Karen) of Tallahassee, FL, five nieces and two nephews. She was preceded in death by her sister, Shirley Imand. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, April 21, 2005 at 10:00 AM at St. Leo Catholic Church. Entombment will follow in Naples Memorial Gardens. Walter Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home 28300 Tamiami Tr. So. Bonita Springs, FL.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, May 24, 1932--Walter S. Shine, resident of Sanibel for 11 years, was killed late Sunday night in an automobile accident on the main road of the island. A coroner's jury yesterday returned a verdict charging Albert S. Willis, owner and driver of the car with driving in a reckless mannner while under the influence of liquor. Willis was arrested by Deputy Roy Larson and was released by Coroner Frank Bailey on his own recognizance for appearance before County Jude L. Y. Redwine this morning. Shine, Willis and T.M. Wiles, jr., were said to have been riding at a speed estimated at 40 to 50 miles an hour when the accident occurred on a curve near the community hall directly in front of the home of Frank Marvin. Willis was said to have lost control of the machine, which careened along the road for several hundred feet before it crashed into a tree and overturned. Shine was pinned beneath the machine. Marvin and his son Lavern, using their own automobile, pulled the Willis car from Shine's body. They said he breathed once or twice and died. He was found to have suffered a fracture of the skull at the base of the brain. There were indications of a broken neck and internal injuries. Shine was 42 years old.--FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Dec. 14, 1932--Two sisters yesterday gazed upon the face of their dead brother whom they had not seen for more than 10 years and definitely identified him as Walter N. Shine. The casket containing the body was exhumed from a shallow grave in a shell mound cemetery on Sanibel Island where it had lain for seven months. Mr. Shine was killed in an automobile accident last May. Ten years ago the brother had left his North Carolina home to come to Florida, leaving behind his parents, a wife and a son, in addition to the two sisters. Nothing had been heard of him by his relatives since that time until recently their attention was called to newspaper accounts of his death. The sisters, Miss Clara and Miss Lucy Shine, had expressed doubt that the casket buried in the Sanibel cemetery contained the remains of their brother and insisted upon seeing the body. Last night the body was placed aboard a train bound for Saison, N. C., near Rocky Mounty, where it will be buried in the family plot. L. W. Engelhardt & Sons was in charge of the exhumation, the sisters making the trip to the island with the undertaker on the morning ferry. They stood by and watched as the grave was opened, the casket removed and its lid taken off for identification. The sisters accompanied the body of their brother last night. They arrived here a few days ago and immediately sought a permit from the state bureau of vital statistics for exhuming the body. Mr. Shine, who had made many friends on the island and mainland during his 10 years of residence, was buried without any facts concerning his earlier life being known here. Even his closest acquaintances said at the time of his death that he had never mentioned his relatives. The sisters were reticent when asked why their brother had left North Carolina. Albert S. Willis, driver of the car involved in the accident, was bound over to the grand jury following the accident but the recent grand jury failed to indict him after hearing the evidence.

Rosa Lee Shipp, 59, of 2774 Blake Street, died Thursday morning. She came to Fort Myers 35 years ago from DeLand and was a member of the Mt Olive A.M.E. Church, Eastern Star and Tranquille Temple, No., Chapter No 44 Order of the Elks. She is survived by her husband, Naamon Shipp; five sisters, Mrs. Eartha Ordley and Mrs. Phyllis Covington of DeLand, Mrs. Annie Moore and Inez Cathy of Cocoa, and. Mattie Williams of Fort Myers. Funeral service will be Sunday at the Mount Olive A.M.E. Church at 2:30 p.m. with Rev A.M. Scott officiating. Burial will be in Oak Ridge Cemetery. Baker's Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Fort Myers News-Press, 12 Jan 2007-- John Wise Shoemaker, who lived most of his life in Fort Myers, died Wednesday, January 10, 2007. John was born on March 5, 1923, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Ruth Kyle Shoemaker and John W. Shoemaker and moved with his family to Fort Myers in 1925. He attended local schools and during those years he played clarinet in local bands. On graduation from Fort Myers High School in 1941, he attended the Navy School of Music in Washington, D.C. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. John married Jacqueline Holst on September 30, 1945, at St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Fort Myers 61 years ago. He graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a degree in geology and worked as a petroleum geologist in Texas and Louisiana until returning to Fort Myers, where he worked in the land title business and later as a real estate broker. John was a past member of Kiwanis, a life member of the Elks Club Lodge #1288, a member of the Pioneer Club of Lee County, the Southwest Florida Historical Society, the Calusa Nature Center, the Edison Pageant of Light Lamplighters and the Royal Palm Yacht Club. He was a member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church where he taught Sunday School and served as a member of the Vestry. Music continued to be an important part of John's life, and he played his clarinet with various groups throughout the area. One of his greatest joys was to go fishing at every opportunity. One of his greatest satisfactions was that he got to travel to every country in the world on his "must see" list, and he loved reliving those many trips through scrapbooks and souvenirs. John is survived by his wife, Jacqueline, his son and daughter-in-law, John Kyle and Carolyn L. Shoemaker, four grandchildren, John Matthew Shoemaker, Marilla J. Shoemaker, Meghan K. Shoemaker and Mackenzie Kyle Shoemaker, his uncle and aunt, Fred and Peggy Sheppard and family, his brother-in-law, Jack Holst, Jr. and his wife, Louetta, nephews and nieces Nick and Suzanne Armeda and family, Johnny Ken and Jane Willis and family, Garry and Yuki Willis and family, Diane and Jim Geater and family, Louetta and Gary Muller and family, Mamie Holst, and a cousin, Beth Alderman and family. He was predeceased by two sisters, Vula Armeda and Mary Kate Allen. The family will receive friends from 5-7 at Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home at 1600 Colonial Boulevard on Friday, January 12th. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 2 PM Saturday, January 13th at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 2635 Cleveland Avenue, Fort Myers, with Fr. Philip D. Read II, SSC, celebrant. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Hope Hospice or to St. Luke's Church.

Fort Myers News-Press, 1 Aug 2007-- Melissa Jill Esckilsen Shook, age 31 of Fort Myers, FL and graduate of Estero High School in 1994, was a beloved Mother, daughter, sister, and granddaughter. She was known to all as a happy, vibrant, beautiful young woman. All who met Melissa fell instantly in love with her and her contagious smile.She is survived by her three children, Joseph Ray Shook, II, Kaylee Jill Shook, and Kronos Magnusson Shook; her Mother Debbie Smith and Step-father Steve; her Father Gary Esckilsen and Step-mother Teresa; her three sisters Jodi Vidaurri (Rey and Maci), Brandy and Stephanie Ireland; Grandmother Alice White; Step-grandmothers Ann Esckilsen, Joyce Smith, and Dorothea Parker; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; also, her dear friend Justin Castagner. She is preceded in death by her grandparents Roscoe and Leona Esckilsen, and grandfather William White. There will be a memorial service held for Melissa at 11am on Saturday, August 4, 2007 at Our Lady of Light Catholic Church located at 19680 Cypress View Dr., Fort Myers, FL 33967. The family will be receiving guests one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of her three children can be made to the Steve and Debbie Smith at Heitman Financial Center, 1530 Heitman St, Fort Myers, FL 33901, for the benefit of the Shook Children. For more information contact Wachovia Bank at (239)332-1899.Walter Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home 992-4982

Fort Myers News-Press Oct 12, 2007 Scott Matthew Shore, 38 of Fort Myers died Tuesday, October 9, 2007. He had been a lifetime resident of Fort Myers and was a graduate of Fort Myers High School. Scott was an owner of Metron Surveying and Mapping. Surviving are his wife, Kim, children, Caylee, Colton and Leanne, Step-children, Corinne and Ellie Bowden, mother, Linda Hadsock, sister, Jennifer Fisher and brother, Kevin Shore. A life celebration memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 20th at 3:00 PM at the Living Word Family Church, 519 West Street, Naples, FL. Kiser Funeral Home 481-4341.

THE FORT MYERS PRESS - March 16, 1923 Mrs. Josephine Smith Shultz, highly respected and much beloved pioneer resident of Fort Myers, passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. H. E. Heitman, First and Jackson Streets at 7 a.m. Friday morning. Death was due to pneumonia. She had been ill several days and Thursday morning when symptoms of pneumonia developed. Those at her bedside when she died were: her devoted son Martin Shultz, and daughter, Mrs. H. E. Heitman; Mrs. Shultz's granddaughter, Miss Lorraine Heitman; her sister, Mrs. C. W. Long of Chicago; and her niece, Mrs. N. R. Garrison of Lexington, Ky. Mrs. Shultz, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jonas O. Smith of Jersey City, N.J., was born there on August 26, 1849. At the age of seventeen she was unanimously appointed to be the principal of the public schools of Jersey City, a marked distinction and high honor for one of her youth. With great credit she held that responsible position until August 30, 1873 when she married George Renton Shultz of Newark, N.J. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Shultz came to South Florida, being among the first settlers in Lee County. They made their home at Punta Rassa until a few years ago, where Mr. Shultz for years served as the operator at the Western Union's cable station and at Punta Rassa he was the proprietor of a fashionable hotel at which were guests of renown from this and other countries. Mrs. Schultz, a prominent resident of this community for half a century had much to do with the upbuilding of Fort Myers and of Lee County. She numbered her friends by he acquaintances and took much interest in every activity looking to the betterment of the community.

Fort Myers News-Press Sep 29, 2009 Clarence E. "Gene" or "Papa Gene" Sibley, Chief Master Sergeant, USAF, retired of N. Ft. Myers; age 77 died September 12, 2009. Born April 14, 1932 in Alma, GA. He was a Lee County resident since 1933. He is preceded in death by wife Judith Hager of Ft. Myers (deceased '97); by parents Louis F. Sibley, Sr. (deceased '48) and Berah Rennolds Lamb (deceased '02); by brothers: Louis F. Sibley Jr. "Mike" (deceased '94) (Joy) of Lawrenceville, GA and Wilson R. Sibley Sr. (deceased '08) (Barbara) of N. Ft. Myers. He is survived by two children, Cheryl Ann (Rick) Joyce of N. Ft. Myers and David Eugene (Jama) Sibley of Malabar; grandchildren Zachary James and Elijah Jacob Joyce of Tampa; brother, Charles Sibley, III, (Sue) of Gainesville. Raised and educated in Lee County; graduated from Ft. Myers High School in '50. He attended Stetson U. 1950-52, leaving to enlist in the USAF. He spent a year in the Florida National Guard at Daytona Beach and 27 years in the USAF as a Photo (Imagery) Interpreter. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal (Merit), the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal and the Air Force Commendation Medal (with oak leaf clusters). He invented two camera mounts for employment on Special Operations aircraft for which Letters Patent were issued. He was awarded an Associate in Applied Science -Imagery Analysis (AAS) Degree from the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) (Geography) from the REGENTS EXTERNAL DEGREE Program at the University of the State of New York. After retirement from the USAF, he entered graduate school at UF Gainesville; transferred to USF, Ft. Myers campus and was awarded a Masters of Education (Med). As a youth he was an Eagle Scout with Bronze, Gold and Silver Palms. He earned 63 merit badges and as an adult scout, served units in Puerto Rico, Louisiana, England, Thailand, Florida, and Germany. He was awarded the Silver Beaver by the Gulf Coast Council, BSA; was a 3-bead Wood Badge Scout; and a Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow. Second career was as a teacher at the Lee County Alternative Learning Center and Lehigh Acres Middle School. Gene retired from teaching in '94. He was a member of North Shore Alliance Church. He served in numerous positions. Visitation 11:30 AM Saturday October 3, 2009, followed by 12:00(Noon) Memorial Service at the National Cremation and Burial Society, 3453 Hancock Bridge Parkway, N. Ft. Myers, FL. Inurnment at a later date at Bushnell National Cemetery

Fort Myers News-Press May 7, 2008 Wilson R. Sibley Sr. departed this world for a better place without pain and suffering on May 2, 2008. Wison was born in Alma, Georgia to Louis F. Sibley and Berah Rennolds. He moved to Fort Myers as a three (3) year old. He graduated from the Fort Myers High School in 1948.Wilson is survived by his wife of fifty four (54) years Barbara Hager Sibley and two sons. Wilson R. (Bill) Sibley Jr. and Kenneth E (Ken) Sibley (Barb) and grandson Nicholas (Nick) Wesner (Kayla). He was preceded in death by daughter Leslie Ann Dana. He is also survived by his brother Charles L. Sibley (Sue) and Clarence E. (Gene) Sibley.Wilson served in the United States Air Force for 20 years. He also retired from the U.S. Postal Service. He was a avid gardener and enthusiastic pilot who loved to take people for rides. He was a member of the VFW Post 10127 and American Legion Post 38. He was a Charter member of Suncoast Baptist Church. A memorial service will be held at Suncoast Baptist Church May 8th 2008 at 3:00 PM with Rev. Ralph Williams Officiating. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Suncoast Baptist Church.Arrangements by National Cremation Society and Funeral Home, 3453 Hancock Bridge Parkway, N. Fort Myers, FL.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Sat., March 21, 1936--Mrs. Walter(Lida) Siebert, 44-year old resident of Omaha, Neb., died late Thursday night after a short illness at the home of her brohter, Floyd Moraine on Second street. Mrs. Siebert came to Fort Myers two weeks ago for a visit and was taken ill shortly after her arrival. The body will be taken to Omaha for burial services and interment. Mrs. Siebert is survived by a daughter, Joyce, a son William, her mother, Mrs. Alfred Moraine, three brothers, Arden, Verin and Floyd, and four sisters, Mrs. C. L. Hallock, Mrs. William Ferguson, Mrs. Frank Minikers and Mrs. Rex Beck of Omaha. Lawrence A. Powell has charge of arrangements.

Ft Myers News-Press, March 20, 2001 - Julia R. Siford, 84 of Lehigh Acres, died March 18, 2001. Born in Cleveland, OH, she moved here in 1967 from Eastlake, OH. Julie leaves her Husband, Howard of Lehigh Acres. Julie is a member of American Legion Aux #38, Council of Catholic Women and St. Raphaels Catholic Church. Family will receive friends today from 6-8 p.m. with a wake service at 7:30 .p.m. Mass of the Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Dennis Cooney at 10 a.m. on Wed, at St. Raphaels Catholic Church. Burial will follow Lee Memorial Park. Knights of Columbus will provide pallbearers. Anderson Funeral Home of Lehigh Acres, 2701 Lee Blvd.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-08-26 Steven Paul Silbernagel, Sr., 48 of Fort Myers, known to many of us as 'Snagel', died August 21st at Tampa General Hospital of complications from burn injuries sustained in a fuel tank explosion on July 2nd. Steve was born April 18, 1956 in Fargo, ND. He grew up in Moorhead, MN and graduated from Moorhead High School in 1974. He attended MN State Community College and completed their certified welding program. On August 27, 1977, he married Susanne Orth in Fargo. They raised their two children there and he owned and operated Snagal's Trailers from 1981 to 1993. In 1993 they moved to Fort Myers and he was employed at Ott Welding, Inc. until 2002. From January 2003 until his death, Snagal devoted his time to his son and his new business. He was a member of the West Coast Muscle Car Club of Naples, Fl. During his life, Snagal enjoyed Nascar races (Earnhardt fan to the end), working on classic cars and spending precious time with his family, grandchildren and friends. Steve will be greatly missed by his wife, his children Stephanie (Jeff) Ketterl of Minneapolis, MN and Steven Jr. of Fort Myers, two grandchildren, Annabelle HazelRae and Jeffery Wallace Ketterl Jr., his mother, Magdaline Silbernagel of Moorhead, MN, three sisters, Mary (Jerry) Naasz of Moorhead, MN, Rita (Gary) Miller and Anna (Terry) Trautmann, both of Fargo, ND, and many aunts, uncles, nieces and a large extension of friends both in Florida nd North Dakota. Memorial Services will be held Friday, August 27, at 2 pm in the Chapel at St. Andrew's Catholic Church located at 2627 Del Prado Blvd, Cape Coral. A luncheon reception will follow the Services.

Fort Myers News-Press--Jun 28, 2006 Mary Anne Lynch Sills, 71, of Stuart, FL died Monday June 26, 2006 in Stuart, FL. Anne was born in Winter Park, FL, was a life long resident of FL and moved to Stuart, in 1970 from West Palm Beach, FL. She was a teacher for many years at J.D. Parker Elementary and was the current president of the Martin County Retired Educators Association. She was a long time member of the First United Methodist Church of Stuart. She was predeceased by her husband Nesbitt B "Red" Sills Jr .Anne is survived by her 3 sons Tripp (Barbara) Sills of Jensen Beach, FL, Michael (Mary) Sills of Vienna, VA and Andrew (Kristina) Sills of Stuart, FL, A daughter Susan Anne (Doug) Dahlbeck of Castro Valley, CA, 9 grandchildren, Nicholas, Erin, Sara, Katy, Chris, Caitlin, Michael, Rebecca and Amanda. Visitation for friends and family will be Friday June 30, 2006 5-7pm at Aycock Funeral Home, Stuart, FL. A funeral service will be held on Saturday July 1, 2006 , 11:00am at First United Methodist Church of Stuart. Interment will follow at Fernhill Memorial Gardens, Stuart, FL. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church of Stuart and Martin County Retired Educators Association, P.O. Box 484, Stuart, FL 34995.Arrangements are entrusted to Aycock Funeral Home, Stuart, FL.

Fort Myers News-Press Sep 15 2009 Ruth M. Sheets Silva dies peacefully, on Thursday, September 10, 2009 at Sunrise of Mount Vernon, Alexandria, VA. Born in Fort Myers, FL, the daughter of Leslie and Marguerite Sheets, on August 3, 1922. She is predeceased by her sisters Marguerite Veale and Gerry Ligon and her loving husband of 45 years Theodore Deane Silva. She is survived by sisters Leota Barco and June Knipper, sons Ted and Chuck, daughters-in-law Meg and Gabriela and grandchildren Christopher, Patrick and Stephanie. She was an avid basketball player and swimmer at Fort Myers High School and on the court of the Thomas A. Edison pageant in Fort Myers. Married in Tampa, FL on November 1, 1947, she lived the life of an Air Force wife at numerous duty stations in and outside the US, moving to Alexandria in 1965. She worked at the National Headquarters of the Arthritis Foundation and spent many hours volunteering at the Mount Vernon estate. She was devoted to her faith and a regular member of Saint Luke's Bible Study, Alexandria, VA. Her door was always open to those needing help, understanding and a place to stay.A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, September 16, 2009 at Saint Luke's Episcopal Church, 8009 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria, VA 22308. If desired, memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Salvation Army or Crank's Creek Survival Center, PO Box 32, Crank's Creek, KY 40820, ATTN: Betty Simpson.

Ft Myers News-Press, June 25, 2001 - Joseph M. Simanski, 92, of Lehigh Acres, died June 23, 2001. He was born in Austria-Hungary, a son of the late Michael and Anna Simanski. He retired as a machinist and moved to the local area in 1974 from New Jersey. Joseph was a member of St. Raphael's Catholic Church. Mr. Simanski is survived by his son, Robert Simanski of Sterling, Va and his grandsons, John and Joseph Simanski of Herndon, VA. He was predeceased by his wife, Adeline in 1994. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 27, 2001 at 10:00 a.m. in St. Raphael's Catholic Church. The family will receive friends at the Farley Memorial Funeral Home, 1100 Lee Blvd., Lehigh Acres on Tuesday from 5-7 p.m. Interment will be in Lee Memorial Park.

Fort Myers News-Press Sep 7, 2009 Juanita Kay Simmermon, 97 of the Sanctuary at St. Paul's in South Bend passed away Thursday, September 3, 2009, at the Sanctuary. Juanita was born March 9, 1912, in Jefferson, Texas to Alfred Joseph and Edna (Kiley) Kay and had lived in South Bend for the past three years coming from Fort Myers, Florida where she spent most of her life. Surviving are her children, Kay S. Laney (R. Dave Laney) of North Liberty, Indiana and Fred L. Simmermon (Sandra Simmermon) of Norfolk, Virginia.A memorial service for Juanita will be held Thursday, September 10, 2009, at 11 a.m. in the Sanctuary at St. Paul's Memorial Chapel, 3602 S. Ironwood Drive, South Bend, Indiana 46614. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Joseph County Humane Society, 2506 Grape Road, Mishawaka, Indiana 46545. To send condolences online, please visit Kaniewski.com.

Fort Myers News-Press, Jan 4 2006 -- South Florida lost one of its proudest native sons when David Simmons, 67, died of lung cancer Saturday, Dec. 31, 2005, at Hope Hospice in Fort Myers. David was born in Miami on Dec. 28, 1938, to Dorothy Griffin and Fred A. Simmons, both of whom were Glades pioneers. David grew up in Pahokee and Belle Glade, and graduated from Pahokee High School in 1958. He studied engineering at the University of Florida and worked as a crane and dragline operator on both coasts of Florida. He was an avid reader, thanks in part to his aunt, Cleo Douthit, a longtime Pahokee teacher who also helped raise him. He loved history, woodworking and boating. He is survived by his three children, Scott Simmons of Lake Worth, Amy McGinley of Fort Myers and W. Clayton (Leigh Anne) Simmons of Alva; three grandchildren, Jonah and Kathryn McGinley of Fort Myers, and Savannah Leigh Simmons of Alva; his wife, Colette Simmons of Blackpool, England; the mother of his children, Martha Simmons of Fort Myers; a cousin, Janette Johnson of Statesboro, GA; two aunts, Frances S. Knight and Lucille DePamphilis, both of Palm Beach Gardens; and a host of friends. His ashes will be put to sea at one of his favorite spots near Pine Island. Friends may call from noon-3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at his home in Fort Myers. Phone: (239) 994-5733. In lieu of flowers, his family encourages donations to local hospice organizations.

Fort Myers News-Press May 19 2008 Ronald R. Simmons, 71, local artist and long time resident of Upper Captiva Island, died May 3, 2008, in Fort Myers, FL., following a six month illness. He was born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, September 30, 1936, to Irene (Karol) and Stanley Simmons. He grew up in Youngstown, OH and later graduated from the University of Pittsburg in electrical engineering. Ron moved to Sanibel, FL, in 1974, where he and a partner started Sanibel Taxi Co. In 1982, he moved to Upper Captiva and stayed. He was a respected artist and generous man who gave much of his time and talent back to his island community. He is survived by his Mother, Irene Simmons and brother, David Simmons, from Youngstown, OH; his sister, Phyllis (Michael) Roth of Boca Raton, FL, and his brother, Thomas (Martha) of Essex Junction, VT, and his nieces and nephews: Matthew, Amanda, Isaac, Johanna and William. He is also survived by his cousins: Barbara Banic from Ormond Beach, FL and Ruth Spiro from Palos Verdes, CA. Mass for Ron Simmons will be Saturday, May 24, 2008, 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal on Stringfellow Rd., Pine Island, FL. Inurnment will follow mass at Coral Ridge Cemetery.The family suggests that donations be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 2200 North Florida Mango Rd., Suite 304, West Palm Beach, FL 33409

Fort Myers News-Press July 4, 2009 Mark Simms, Gentleman extraordinaire, lost his two year battle to cancer on June 23, 2009.After receiving his Master's Degree in theater from UCLA, Mark went on to pursue a career in the entertainment field working throughout the United States, into the Caribbean via the cruise ships and culminating as a DJ until his illness prevented further work.He is survived by long time companion and love, Kay Lenart, and two sons, Adam and Noel, of California.Special thanks are extended to Hospice Team 110 for their care and compassion during Mark's final months and a donation in his name may be made to Hope Hospice, 9470 Health Park Circle, Ft. Myers, FL 33908.A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, May 10, 1931--William Simpler, 28, of Avon park, died in the Lee Memorial hospital yesterday of injuries received in a collision of two trucks on the one-way bridge at Estero Friday and L. T. Warren of New Albany, Ind., driver of one of the vehicles, was held under his own recognizance for a preliminary hearing before Judge L. Y. Redwine at 9 o'clock tomorrow morning. Authorities said he probably would be charged with manslaughter. Meanwhile Frank Woodward, employed with Simpler at the Ritter sawmill south of Estero, who was riding with him on the truck, was recovering from fractured ribs suffered in the accident. Robert Cowan of Louisville, Ky., a passenger on Warren's truck, was not hurt. Simpler's body was sent to Avon Park for burial by the Lawrence A. Powell funeral home yesterday. He is survived by a wife and two children, Howard and Jeanette, and two brothers, Gus and Offie, all of Avon Park. Dr. H. Quillian Jones ascribed his death to shock and a ruptured liver. Simpler and Woodward received their injuries from their load of timber which crashed through the cab of the truck following the collision. Eye witnesses told authorities that Warren's truck was backing up off the bridge when the crash occurred and ascribed the accident to faulty brakes on the timber truck.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, OCT 22 2003 - Elizabeth G. Simpson, age 74, of LaBelle, passed away Oct. 20, 2003 in LaBelle. She was born July 18, 1929 in Ft. Myers to James L. Powers and Gertrude V. Powers. She lived in the Glades and Hendry County area her entire life. She served on the Glades County School Board for 12 years. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, and the V.F.W., American Legion and Moose Ladies Auxiliaries. Survivors include her husband, Jack, daughters; Audrey Curry (Jimmy) of Clewiston, Wanda Searcy and Martha C. Cross, both of LaBelle, son; Larry Crews of LaBelle, step children; Donald T. Crews of Ft. Myers and Julia Atkinson (Mike) of Sarasota, brother; Frank J. Powers of LaBelle, four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; James 'Bootie' Powers and Gertrude Powers, late husband; Joe Crews, grandson; Jason L. Curry and step-son; John H. Simpson. Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 23, 2003, 9:30 AM at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle with Pastor L.W. Howard officiating. Interment will follow at Ortona Cemetery. Visitation will be TONIGHT from 7-9 PM at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home-LaBelle, Florida.

Fort Myers News-Press, 15 Apr 2005-- Flossie Lee Simpson, 90, of Ft. Myers passed away April 11, 2005. She was born in Folston, Georgia, January 9, 1915. She was united in Holy Matrimony to James Z. Simpson Sr. on June 12, 1949. In 1993, he preceded her in death. To forever cherish her memories are her seven devoted children; James Z. (Bertha) Simpson, Cheyenne (Herbert) Brown, Richard (Berthena) Simpson, Mary C. Simpson, Andrew (Debra) Simpson, Theodore Maceo (Judy) Simpson all of Ft. Myers, Florida and Kenneth (Brenda) Simpson of Port Charlotte, Florida; two devoted grandchildren, Tracy McDowell of Snellville, Georgia and Roy Anderson of Tallahassee, Florida; two sisters-in-law, Lena Mae Pearson of Riverside, California and Francis Simpson of Palmetto, Florida, twenty grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, a host of devoted nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, April 16 at 10:00 AM at Mt. Olive A.M.E. Church with the pastor, Rev. Dr. Alan B. Stockton, officiating. Interment will follow in Veterans Garden of Lee Memorial Park.

Fort Myers News-Press, 11 Aug 2007-- Richard Gwynne Simpson, Jr. was born October 22, 1929 in Tampa, Florida to Doris S. and Richard Simpson. He died on August 9, 2007 at Hope Hospice surrounded by his loving family. Richard moved to Fort Myers in 1935 and graduated from Fort Myers High School with the class of '47. While in high school he was a member of the Key Club and lettered in football, track and boxing. He was on the All-Conference football squad his senior year. He attended the University of Florida and was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha. He served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. After serving his country he returned to Fort Myers and joined his father in the family business. In 1956 Richard married Katherine Ballard at First Baptist Church in Fort Myers and they celebrated their 50th anniversary January 28, 2006. Richard established Construction Sales and Rental Equipment, Inc. in 1960 and was active in that business until his retirement. He was involved in the early stages of WEVU-TV, serving as president. Richard also served as a director of People's Bank in N. Fort Myers. Richard was a 50 year member of Elks #1288. He was very active in the Masons and a 50 year member of Tropical Lodge #56, serving as Master of the lodge in 1968 and 1979. He was the oldest living past master. He joined the Scottish Rite in 1959 and was master of all four bodies of the Rite. He was honored as a Knight Commander Court of Honor in 1976 and as Thirty Third Degree Inspector General honorary in 1973, this being the highest degree of the Rite. He was a perpetual life member in the Masonic Lodge and also the Scottish Rite. He was also a charter member of the Araba Shrine Temple. Richard was an active member of Central Baptist Church.He is survived by his wife Katherine, his son Rick III and his wife, Kimberly, his three daughters, Cindy Barrios and her husband, Robert, Ginny Dickinson and her husband, Sal, Shelly McGovern and her husband, Butch. He was "Big D" to his nine grandchildren: Aaron and Matthew Simpson; Katie, Kristin and Rob Barrios; Ally and Jessie Dickinson and Mallory and Carly McGovern. He is also survived by his sisters Annette Simpson and Martha Stephenson and by numerous nieces and nephews.Funeral services will be held Sunday, August 12, 2007 at Central Baptist Church, 3208 Central Ave. Visitation will be at 2 PM with the funeral at 3 PM. Burial, with Masonic services will be private. Donations in Richard's memory may be made to Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908 or Lifeline Family Center, 907 S.E. 5th Ave., Cape Coral, FL 33990. Arrangements by Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 936-0555.

Fort Myers News Press, 24 Oct 2006 -- Tyler Christopher Sims, 14, of East Fort Myers, born August 11, 1992 , lost his life suddenly on Oct. 19, 2006 when he was struck and killed while crossing Palm Beach Blvd.He is survived by his mother Nikki Lynn Gray, father Danny Wade Sims, sister Courtney, and two brothers Danny Jr. and Daniel.A public viewing will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2006 from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM at Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd. Services for burial will begin at 12 Noon on Thursday, Oct. 26, 2006 at Anderson Funeral Home. Burial services will follow at Fort Myers City Cemetery, 3200 Michigan Ave. Please join us as we send our little angel home.

George Singletary

Fort Myers News-Press, Jan 11 2005-- Lucille Browning Singletary, 84, of N. Ft. Myers died Sunday January 9, 2005. She was a native of Ft. Myers born August 11, 1920 the daughter of David Wright and Susan Deelona Hogan Browning. Mrs. Singletary was a nurses' assistant at Lee Memorial Hospital retiring after 25 years. She was preceded in death by her husband of 26 years George Buford Singletary and is survived by her sister; Juanita Hutchison, 2 sons; Michael Singletary (Yvette) and Franklin Singletary (Ellen), daughter; Darlene Magee Lane, 8 grandchildren; Patrick Magee, Joseph Magee, Christopher Magee, Donya Sushill, Joey Singletary, Mark Singletary, Josh Singletary and Amey Collier, 15 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandson. Funeral service will be conducted Thursday January 13, at 10:30 AM at the Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd., with Rev. John Paul Marlow, officiating. Family will receive friends Wed. evening from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Funeral Home. Interment will take place at Ft. Myers Cemetery

Fort Myers News-Press, 20 June 2006 -- Mildred Singletary, 81, of North Fort Myers passed away Sunday June 18, 2006. She was born in Fort Myers the daughter of the late Isom and Margaret McClenithan. She was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Hank Singletary and grandson Justin Singletary. Mildred is survived by her children; Nick (Pat) Singletary of Punta Gorda, Denise (Charles) Robbins of Punta Gorda, Johnny (Suse) (Buffi) Singletary of North Fort Myers and Steve (Heidi) Sngletary of Alva, nine grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and sisters; June Stephens of Haines City and Norma Harris of Naples, and numerous nieces and nephews. Mildred's family will receive friends from 10-11 AM Thursday June 22, 2006 at the Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home 1600 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers with funeral services at 11 AM. Interment will be in Fort Myers City Cemetery. The family would like to offer special thanks to these "Angels of Tidewel Hospice & Palative Care"; Judith, Marlehn, Rachel, Liam, Robbie, Mary, Heather and Doctor Martin.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - December 22, 1965 Leo W. Singleton, 50, of 3830 Edgewood Ave., died Tuesday. He had lived here for the past 15 years. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Merle J. Singleton; daughters, Mrs. Frankie Jean Keys, Mrs. Jo Ann Denkhaus, Maribeth Singleton, Mary Singleton, Susan Singleton, Cindy Singleton and Nanorea Singleton; sons George Singleton and Gary Singleton of Fort Myers, Larry Singleton of Warren, Ohio, Leo W. Singleton, Jr. of Fort Myers; sisters, Mrs. Viola King, Mrs. Edith Cooper of Mayport, Mrs. Jeanette Cason of Jacksonville Beach, Mrs. Ada Wylie of Freeport, Texas, brothers Chauncey Singleton, Holley Singleton and Robert Singleton of Jacksonville Beach, Earl Singleton of Mayport and eight grandchildren. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Tice and veteran of World War II. Funeral service will be held Thursday at 3 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Tice with Rev. M. M. Mosley officiating. Burial will be in Fort Myers Cemetery. Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (Garden of Memories)

Fort Myers News-Press, 24 Apr 2005-- Carl Skinner, 79, of Ft. Myers died on April 22, 2005 at Hope Hospice North, Cape Coral. He was born in Ft. Myers into a pioneer family on November 2, 1925, a son of the late Abraham and Virginia (Waldron) Skinner who settled in Ft. Myers in 1909. Carl worked throughout the State of Florida and many other states representing the State of Florida Agricultural Department, Inspection Division. He honored his country by serving in the military and was a lifelong member of the Church of God. He is survived by his sister, Annie Pigott of N. Ft. Myers, his brother, Fred Skinner of Carrollton, GA, many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his bothers, Bill, Abe, Noah, Dan and Luke Skinner and his sisters, Emmie Skinner and Katherine Gaskill . A funeral service will be conducted on Tuesday, April 26, 2005 at 2:00 PM in the Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd. (239) 936-0555, where the family will receive friends after 1:00 PM. Burial will be private.

Fort Myers News-Press Dec 15, 2006 Mr. Fred Skinner, Sr., age 83, of Villa Rica, GA died Tuesday, December 12, 2006.Mr. Skinner was born in Fort Myers, Fl on December 22, 1922 the son of the late Abraham Skinner and Virginia Skinner. He was a retired manager of Liberty National Life Insurance Co., a US Navy veteran of WW II serving as a communication petty officer and member of the First Christian Church. Survivors include daughter, Nancy, Curry Calhoun, GA, son Minister Fred Skinner, Woodstock, GA, 7 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren. Graveside services will be Saturday, December 16, 2006 at 11 AM at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at the funeral home 1 hour prior to the service.Fort Myers Memorial Funeral Home & Gardens in charge of arrangements.

Fort Myers News-Press, 8 Feb 2007-- Susan Pearl Skinner, 88, of N. Fort Myers went to be with the Lord Wednesday February 7, 2007. She was born May 3, 1918 in Gainesville, FL to her parents Joseph W. and Mattie Parker. She moved to Fort Myers in 1935 from Sarasota and married Luke Skinner in 1938. Together they owned and operated Palm City Glass and Mirror for over 40 years. Pearl was an 80 year member of the Church of God. She enjoyed hand crafts and was an avid seamstress. Survivors include her three daughters Patricia Jean (husband Devon) Land and Edith (husband Ronald) Roberts all of Fort Myers and Sandra (husband Joe) Brown of Crystal River, FL, five grandchildren Crystal Hamlin, Stephanie Campbell, Stacey Waldron, Ricky Land and Ann Sears and nine great-grandchildren. Pearl was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Luke, in 2003.Funeral Services will be conducted at 11:00 AM Monday February 12, 2007 at the Broadway Community Church with Rev. Dr. Thomas Frye officiating. Burial will follow at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. The family will receive friends for viewing Sunday from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Harvey Engelhardt Metz Funeral Home.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Wed., April 28, 1943 - Mrs. Florida Virginia Skinner, 62, died suddenly yesterday of a heart attack.  Mrs. Skinner, resident of Fort Myers for the past 36 years, is survived by her husband, A. S. Skinner, Sr., seven sons, Abe, William, Noah, Luke, Carl and Fred, of Fort Myers and Dan, who is with the armed forces in Portland, Oreg., and three daughters, Mrs. Reuben Skinner and Mrs. Wilson Pigott of Ft. Myers and Mrs. Austin Gaskill of Belle Glade.  Lawrence A. Powell has charge of arrangements. Mrs. Skinner was a member of the Church of God, and because of her death, the weekly prayer meeting scheduled for tonight at the Marsh Avenue church has been called off.

Fort Myers News-Press, Feb 24 2005-- Nancy Carroll Skinner, age 55, of N. Ft. Myers, lost her courageous battle with breast cancer and passed away at home on February 21, 2005. Born June 7, 1949 in Pittsburgh, PA she was the daughter of James and Eleanor (Sullivan) Carroll. The family relocated to South Florida where Nancy's early childhood was sent in Miami. As a teenager she moved to Ft. Myers and attended Ft. Myers High School, living in the area for more than 40 years. Nancy worked in the health care field for many years as a medical administrator for physician services. Her hobbies included needle crafts such as crocheting, knitting and sewing. She was talented as a creative quilter and crafter. Many of her family members and friends hold cherished works created by Nancy's gifted hands. During the time her three daughters were growing up, Nancy volunteered as a cheerleading coach and many of the young ladies of the area will remember her cheerfulness, good humor, kindness and generosity. Dedicated to her husband and daughters, Nancy had a warm and loving nature, unselfishly giving priority to the needs of others. She especially enjoyed family gatherings and vacations in the Skinner cabin in the Smoky Mountains. Nancy's devotion to her husband was inspiring. Commitment to her family was unfailing, her love boundless, and her strength unshakable. Survivors include David Skinner, Nancy's loving, devoted husband of 38 years; three adoring daughters; Monica (Ray) Adkins and Melissa Skinner, both of N. Ft. Myers, and Michelle (Sean) Loy of Wheeling, WV; a treasured grandson, Bryce Adkins, and a future grandchild to be born in September 2005 (Baby Loy); sister Eleanor (William) Nelson of Parachute, CO, Susan Snyder of Ft. Myers and Kathryn (Behzad) Habibnejad of Melbourne; and several nieces and nephews. Nancy was predeceased by her parents and a sister, Christine. A celebration of life will be held at Grace Church, 13 S.E. 21st Place, (corner of Hancock Bridge Pkwy and S.E. 21st Place), Cape Coral, FL on Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 11:00 AM with a reception to immediately follow in the fellowship hall.

Rodney Eugene Skinner was born on February 10, 1960 in Fort Myers, FL and went to be with the Lord on May 23, 2008. He passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side.Rodney was a native of Fort Myers and a graduate of N. Fort Myers High School. He was a family man, avid hunter and outdoorsman. He worked at Johnson Engineering as a land surveyor for the past 28 years. Rodney will be best remembered for his huge heart and enthusiasm for life. He loved playing the guitar, banjo, and singing and was a member of a band for many years. He will always be remembered as a "good ol boy" who was proud of his southern heritage. He loving person, wonderful father, grandpa, brother and friend to many.For many years he had researched extensively his family genealogy that allowed him to meet distant relatives and learn about his ancestors. He loved to tell stories about his family. Rodney was preceded in death by his parents Lersey and Inez Skinner and a brother Roger Skinner. He is survived by his Fiancée Jacqueline Rappold, one daughter Tonya Skinner of Cape Coral, his son Jason (Shelly) Skinner, Tallahassee, three grandchildren Jesup, Devin, and Dillon that he adored, brother James David Skinner, N.Fort Myers, sister Judy Ramirez, Juanita, Aunt Mary and several nieces and nephews and great nephews.The family will receive friends Tuesday May27, 2008 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm in Coral Ridge Funeral Home, 1630 Pine Island Rd. A celebration of his life will be 2:00pm Wednesday May 28, 2008 at Grace Church 13 SE 21st Place Cape Coral with burial in Fort Myers Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to be made to Hope Hospice in his name.Coral Ridge Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Caloosa Belle Nov 22 2007 Tera Reece Skipper, age 4, of Muse, died on Saturday, Nov. 17, 2007. She was born in South Ft. Myers on Jan. 18, 2003 to Darrell and Danielle Skipper. Tera attended preschool at West Glades preschool program since August 2007. She was a former tumble-tyke student at LaBelle Dance. Tera's favorite activities included going to church at Community Harvest Worship Center and playing outside with her siblings and friends. She will be missed by everyone because of her vivacious spirit, bubbly laughter, courage and her loyal and kind heart. Tera was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Timothy Bruce Allen, in 1996.She is survived by her parents, Darrell and Danielle Skipper; her siblings, Shay, Callie and Coltin; her paternal grandparents, "Nana and Papa" Rhonda and Terrell Skipper and her "Mema" Lois Fussell. Tera is also survived by her maternal grandmother, "Meme" Robin Brannan as well as her great-grandmother, Jean Williams. In addition, she is survived by her "Nanny" Gloria Allen and also by numerous aunts, uncles and cousins who loved her. Services celebrating Tera's life were held on Tuesday, Nov. 20, with funeral services held at Akin-Davis Funeral Home, LaBelle. A memorial service will be held at Community Harvest Worship Center on Wednesday, Nov. 21, at 1 p.m. Interment will be held immediately after services at Ft. Denaud Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press Feb 10, 2009 Terrell Reece Skipper (Skip), age 52, of LaBelle, passed away February 7, 2009 in LaBelle. He was born December 27, 1956 in Sebring to Arno Jay Skipper and Thelma Evelyn (O'Berry) Skipper. Terrell was a resident and entrepreneur of LaBelle since 1983. He owned and operated Statewide Palms with other horticultural interests. He was a sponsor of the LaBelle Longhorns from 1995-1997 and 1999. Terrell was a member of River Ranch Hunting Club, Florida Cattlemen's Association, NMRO, NRA and NASRA. Survivors include his wife of thirty years, Rhonda Lynette (Rimes) Skipper, son, Darrell Skipper of LaBelle, three sisters, Laticia Skipper, Flavia Mansberger and Pamela Vertulo, all of LaBelle, grandchildren, Callie Skipper, Colton Skipper, Shay Hunter and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Tera Reece Skipper in 2004.Funeral services will be held Wed. February 11, 2009, 1:00 pm, Graveside at Fort Denaud Cemetery with Pastor L. W. Howard officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday from 7-9 p.m. at Akin-Davis Funeral Home, LaBelle.Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, March 30, 1932--Mrs. Harriet L. Slack, 91 years old, who knew Abraham Lincoln personally and who frequently went to market in Washington with Lincoln's wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, died here yesterday afternoon following a brief illness. Mrs. Slack had been a regular winter visitor to Florida and other southern states for many years. She paid her first visit to Florida 60 years ago. She frequently recalled visiting Atlanta when that city had but a few hundred inhabitants. Born in New York, Mrs. Slack lived there until her marriage. She moved to Chicago with her husband where she resided for 73 years, coming to Fort Myers a year ago to be with her daughter, Mrs. Harriet Pope. She had traveled extensively and her husband was one of the largest wholesale and retail grocery merchants in Chigago before entering the banking business. Philip Hichborn, chief naval construction engineer of the United States navy in 1893 and designer of the battleship "Maine", whose sinking preceded the Spanish-Americah war, was a nephew of Mrs. Slack. She attended a mammoth banquet in Washington in her younger days at which her nephew was the guest of honor. Mrs. Slack also told of attending many of the Shakespearean plays given by the Booth Brothers, one of whom assassinated Lincoln. Mrs. Slack had been a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution of Chicago. She was well acquainted with Ulysses S. Grant and recalled playing with President Grant's little son, Fred. The aged woman's mind was perfectly lucid to the end. She attended a cantata given at the Methodist church Friday evening. She retired feeling as well as ever but suffered a stroke during the night, followed by another Saturday which resulted in her death yesterday. She is survived by her daughter, Mrs. Pope; a brother, Frank Favor, who lives at LaBelle and a grand-daughter, Mrs. Mary Schering of Berlin, Germany, who has been visiting in Fort Myers for several months. Mrs. Slack claimed direct descent from Paul Revere. funeral services will be held this afternoon at 3:30 o'clock at the chapel of the L. W. Engelhardt and Son funeral home. Burial will be in Fort Myers. The Rev. O. T. Anderson will officate. Mrs. Slack attended the Edison Park church here. Mrs. J. D. Lynn will sing a solo during the funeral servics. Pall bearers will be Don Bellows, Judge L. Y. Redwine, C. C. Travis, R. C. Williams, Byron Hough and Harry Poe Johnson.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Nov. 14, 1933--Funeral services for Andrew Slater, boatman who died at the Marine hospital in Key West Sunday, will be held at 10 o'clock this morning at the Lawrence A. Powell funeral home on First street. The Rev. E. N. Philpott will officiate and interment will take place at the Fort Myers cemetery. The deceased is survived by his wife, Mrs. Edith Slater, and one daughter, Joyce Slater. Pallbearers will be John Prevatt, Capt. Arthur N. Wintle, Walter Bostick, Walter Moore, L. Santini and Santa Armeda.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Jan. 25, 1955 - Claude F. Sloan, 69, winter visitor from Plainfield, N. J., died suddenly Sunday night. He was retired superintendent of Tide Water Pipe Line. Surviving are his wife, Anna A. Sloan, Plainfield; a sister, Miss Lottie Sloan, San Francisco; a brother, Verne Sloan, Plainfield, and a niece, Mrs. Ralph Smalley, New market, N. J. The body was sent yesterday to Plainfield for services and interment by Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, January 19, 1967 -- Clewiston - Mrs. Thera Dosha Small, 87, of LaBelle, died Tuesday afternoon in the Clewiston Hospital. She was a native of Sylvania, Ga., and had been a resident of LaBelle for 44 years. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of LaBelle. She is survived by a son, G. H. Small of Clewiston; daughters, Mrs. J. O. Davidson, Mrs. Kirby Thompson and Mrs. Norma Jean Langford, all of LaBelle, and Mrs. Edna Landdon of Miami; 12 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren. The funeral will be Friday at 2 p.m. at the First Baptist Church with Rev. Glenn M. Smith and Rev. Reeves Dean officiating. Burial will be in Fort Denaud Cemetery. Pattison Funeral Home of Clewiston is in charge of arrangements.

Fort Myers News-Mar 29, 2005 Bruce M. Smart, 70 years, of Ft. Myers, died February 20, 2005. He was born in Rensselaer, Indiana the son of the late Rev. Thomas & Elizabeth Smart. His father was the Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Myers from 1943 to 1955. A memorial service will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 29th at 6 PM at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 1918 Hill Ave., Ft. Myers. Pastor Richard Riley and the Rev. Dr. Ian Lamont will officiate. Funeral arrangements by Harvey-Engelhardt -Metz Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd., Ft. Myers. FMHS 1952

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - November 10, 1955-- Word was received yesterday by Mrs. R. E. (Doc) Johnson of Naples that her uncle, Abner Marion Smith, died Wednesday in Jacksonville. Mr. Smith, who was 94, had resided on Lake Shore Boulevard in Jacksonville for the past five years. He was a resident of Bonita Springs for 60 years and a Lee County commissioner for 12 years. His wife, Mrs. Emma W. Smith, preceded him in death in 1950. Funeral services will be held Friday at 2 p.m. from the Young-Harvey chapel. Pallbearers will be R. E. (Doc) Johnson, Leon McCormick and Forrest Walker, all of Naples, R. A. Lawhon, Floyd Long and Ocie Jones, all of Bonita Springs. Interment will follow in Fort Myers Cemetery. Mr. Smith is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Florida Cash of Jacksonville; a brother, and a niece, Mrs. R. E. (Doc) Johnson of Naples. Arrangements by Young-Harvey, funeral directors.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, April 3, 1931--On the street and at work as recently as last Saturday afternoon, Dr. Amos Tuttle Smith, a widely known Fort Myers druggist for the past 14 years, died yesterday noon at the Lee Memorial hospital of peritonitis which involved the appendix and intestinal tract after an operation for gallstones. He first complained of illness Saturday night wnd was taken to the hospital Sunday. His condition became extremely critical Tuesday night and doctors attending him despaired of saving his life. His brother, Dr. C. E. Smith, a physician from Donaldsonville, Ga., was called into consultation and from him Tuttle learned that he could not live. He acccepted the verdict cheerfully and went to his death bravely, those at his bedside said. Funeral services will be held at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel at 7 o'clock this morning and the body will be taken by train to Donaldsonville, the family home. Sandifer Jones of Sandford, a brother of Mrs. Smith, will accompany the body. Mrs. Smith, with another brother, Watt Jones of Blakely, Ga., and his wife, will go by motor to Donaldsonville. The Rev. G. S. Roberts of the Methodist church will conduct the seervice here, assisted by the Rev. O. A. Thrower, Tuttle Smoith's pastor for many years. The pallbearers will be Judge George W. Whitehurst, Dr. Nat Hunter, Capt. George Kinzie, Ald. V. C. Robb, John Boring and Ted Evans. Members of the Elks and the Masons, fraternal orders to which he belonged, will attend the funeral. Tuttle smith was 42 years old. He was born in Donaldsonville and was educated at Auburn college in Alabama from which he was graduated after taking a course in pharmacy. He was married at Blakely to Miss Willa Jones. Coming to Florida, they first lived at Wauchula where Tuttle, jr., was born. Later Dr. Smith was employed as a druggist at Marianna and came to Fort Myers from there to work for Dr. Nat Hunter. Two other children, Benjamin and Caroline, were born here. Dr. Smith left Hunter's to enter into a partnership with Ted Evans which was later dissolved. His last position was with the Parkview Pharmacy... Familiarly known as "Doc" to a large circle of acquaintances he enjoyed wide popularity in Fort Myers. He was keenly interested and frequently active in politics, usually on behalf of friends who were running for office. Born and reared in Georgia, of an old southern family, he was a stalwart democrat in national politics and was usually well informed on campaign issues. While his death had been forecast by reports from the hospital since Tuesday, news of his passing came as a shock to his friends yesterday. Until stricken by the attack of gall stones Saturday night he had apparently been in robust health. He was on duty at the Parkview Saturday and many recalled seeing him on the street Saturday afternoon

Anna Belle Boyd SMITH

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Feb. 27, 1938--Bartow Smith, 44-year-old field worker employed by the A & W Bulb company, was instantly killed late yesterday afaternoon in an automobile accident on McGregor boulevard opposite the Miles Farms. Smith was thrown from an A & W Bulb company truck when it was struck from the rear by a vegetable truck driven by Edwin Summerall, employe of the Frank Saley Trucking company. Smith's neck was broken when he fell off the truck and he was crushed by the truck coming up from behind. Deputy Sheriff L. H. Furen said an inquest would be held today or Monday. In the meantime, Summerall is being held in the Lee county jailpending the result of further investigation by the sheriff's office and the coroner's inquest. Deputy Furen said that from testimony it appeared that the bulb truck bringing workmen back to town slowed up and that the vegetable truck failed to stop, crashing into the car ahead. Smith fell backwards and was run over by the vegetable truck. This body was brought back to Fort Myers by Lawrence A. Powell. Smith was 44 years old and his home is in Statesboro, Ga. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Sallie T. Smith, two sons, Charles and Winfred and two daughters, Elma Lou and Olivia, all of Statesboro.

Fort Myers News-Press, Mar 1 2005-- Carolyn S. Smith, 72, of Ft. Myers, died Sunday, February 27, 2005. She had been a resident here for the past 28 years, formerly of Galena, Ohio, and was one of the founders of Big Arts on Sanibel. Surviving are her husband, Peter G. Smith of Ft. Myers, daughters, Cynthia Haas of South Bend, Indiana, Lisa Pierot of Ft. Myers, Carrie Ross of Winchester, Virginia, son, Adamm Smith of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, brother, Tim Bradford of Morehead, North Carolina and 11 grandchildren. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Kiser Funeral Home

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Aug. 20, 1934--Charles N. Smith, 56-year-old Spanish American war veteran and proprietor of the Kandy Kitchen, died yesterday in the Veterans hospital in St. Petersburg. His death was unexpected, as his wife received a letter in the morning mail saying that he was much improved. A military funeral will be held at 3 o'clock this afternoon at the L. W. Engelhardt chapel. The Rev. F. A. Shore of St. Luke's Episcopal church will conduct the service. In addition to war veterans, the Knights of Pythias will attend the funeral in a body. The organization has been asked to meet at 9 o'clock at the Pythian hall. Active pallbearers include Simon Loeb, Fred Durre, J. W. McWilliams, Luke Towles, Mr. Kitchens and Walter Kaune. Honorary pallbearers are L. Hicks, F. F. Modie, Lew Stewart and L. M. Stroup. Mr. Smith was born in St. Louis and later moved to Key West, Florida. He has lived in Fort Myers for 22 years where he and his distinctive confectionery store have been widely known. He has served as an officer both in the local port of Spanish war veterans and with the West Coast organization. He leaves two children, Mrs. Walter Kaune, jr., and Reece Smith, in addition to his widow. He is also survived by his mother, who arrived at the St. Petersburg hospital yesterday from St. Louis.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, March 16, 1972 - Mrs. Clara H. Plain Smith, 69, of 4375 Tuscaloosa Drive, died Tuesday.   Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Carol Harris of Fort Myers; sons, Carl Lewis Smith of Overland Park, Kansas, Mrs. Christian William Smith of St. Petersburg; brothers, General Louis of Plain, Calif., Arnold Plain of Cleveland, Ohio; one sister, Mrs. Dorthea Bonavitch of Cleveland and nine grandsons.   She was a member of St. Michael Lutheran Church.  Funeral arrangements will be announced later by Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home.

FORT MYERS PRESS - August 30, 1923 Devine B. Smith, age 77, died Wednesday afternoon at 4 o'clock at his home in East Fort Myers. Death was due to a stroke of paralysis which he suffered at Lakeland last Friday at the home of his wife's sister. Sunday he was brought to Fort Myers and taken to his home. Medical aid was of no avail and he continued sinking until death. Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. Dr. O. A. Thrower of the First Methodist Church, South, at 10:30 o'clock Thursday morning at the church. Burial was made in the Fort Myers Cemetery. He is survived by his wife whom he married about a year ago. Friends of Mr. Smith deplored the fact that Thursday's Tropical News said that Mr. Smith was recovering when the fact is he died at 4 p.m. Wednesday.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, August 15, 1958 -- Era Smith, 68, a resident of Lee County all her life, died Thursday.  She was a resident of St. James City and a member of the Methodist Church.  Surviving are her sister, Mrs. Clarence Cleveland, Fort Myers; a brother, William Yeomans, Daytona Beach, Fla. and many nieces and nephews.  Funeral services will be held today at 2 p.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Rev. John Few officiating.  Pallbearers will be Sheriff Flanders Thompson, Elmore Pearce, Earl Hord, Wilson Pigott, Dawson McDaniel and Russel Williams. Honorary bearers will be Dr. George Hopkins, Dr. James L. Bradley, Dr. H. Q. Jones and Tom Smoot.  Burial will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS PRESS, Sat., May 27, 1933--Judge E. S. Smith, 85 years old, died late Thursday night at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J. M. Sherouse, on Madison avenue in East End. Judge Smith was born in Liverpool, England. He had lived here for 14 years coming from Kenwood, Fla. Judge Smith leaves a long list of survivors including his widow and children. Mrs. J. M. Sherouse and Mrs. L. M. Sherouse of Fort Myers, L. L. Smith of Tampa, Mrs. I. M. Hinson of Whiteville, N. C. and A. M. Smith of Farmville, Va. He also is survived by 26 grandchildren and 15 great-grand-children. Funeral services will be held at the Edgewood Methodist church at 4 o'clock Sunday afternoon. The Rev. Martin will officiate. Lawrence A. Powell is in charge of arrangements. Pallbearers will be J. C. Sumner. T. P. Hill, Jack Foshee, Mr. Dupre, O. B. Blount, J. F. Infinger and Fred Lanier.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - December 13, 1965 Mrs. Eunie Smith, 82, 539 State St., North Fort Myers, died Saturday night. She had lived here for the past 20 years. Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Clyde Johns; grandchildren, Denny Johns, Mrs. Martha Rooks, North Fort Myers; five great-grandchildren. She was a member of the North Fort Myers Methodist Church. Funeral service will be Tuesday at 2 p.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Rev. Claude O. Tucker officiating. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - January 19, 1961 George B. Smith, age 66, retired seafood market proprietor of 2562 Franklin St., and a resident of Fort Myers since 1942, died last night. He was a native of Bartow and lived in Arcadia prior to coming here. He was a member of the Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Fannie Lou Smith, four daughters, and three sons. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by the Harvey Funeral Home.January 20, 1961 - Funeral services for George Burton Smith, 65, of 2562 Franklin Street, have been set for 2 p.m. Saturday at the Harvey Funeral Home with Rev. Howard Long, pastor, Russell Park Baptist Church and Rev. Troy Johnson, pastor, Felda Baptist Church, officiating. The Fort Myers Lodge No. 63, Independent Order of Odd Fellows will conduct graveside rites at the Fort Myers Cemetery. Odd Fellows will serve as pallbearers. Surviving besides his wife, Mrs. Fannie Lou Smith, are four daughters, Mrs. Leroy Douglals, Mrs. James H. Douglas, Mrs. Martin A. Murae, all of Fort Myers; Miss Joyce Smith, Miami; three sons, Jerry Smith, Troy and Willie J. Johnson, all of Fort Myers; and seven grandchildren.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, June 14, 1979-- Grover Smith, 79, of 3631 E. Michigan Ave., Fort Myers, died Wednesday. She had been a lifetime resident of Fort Myers and was a former member of the Church of God of Prophecy. She is survived by one son, Roscie A. Smith of Fort Myers; one daughter, Sophronia Howard of Fort Myers; three sisters, Pearl Whisnant of LaBelle, Aurila Wiggins of North Fort Myers, Mary Lee of Fort Myers; one brother, JOhnnie Lee of Fort Myers, 12 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and 24 nieces and nephews. Funeral will be held Friday at 3 p.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with the Rev. Donnie Webster officiating. Burial will be at Fort Myers Cemetery (Garden of Memories). Friends may call at the funeral home from noon today until time of service on Friday.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2005-06-13 -- Harold Murdoch Smith, of Ft. Myers, Florida, went to his eternal rest on June 5, 2005, at the age of 104. He was born on August 2, 1900, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Clara B. Hill Smith and Herbert Irvin Smith. As a young man, Harold enlisted in the United States Marine Corp, serving his tour of duty during World War I. Throughout his lifetime, he has maintained a strong spirit of patriotism and love for his country. In later years, he became a member of World War I Veterans Post No. 1954. Currently he was a member of The Paul E. Ison Detachment of The Marine Corps League. Recently, it was verified that Harold was the oldest living Marine in the United States. As a result, he was presented with an official letter by Senator Bill Nelson of Florida, acknowledging that he was so recognized by the United States Marine Corps.Following World War I, Harold became employed by the Gulf, Mobile, and Ohio Railroad in St. Louis. In 1940, he was transferred to Mobile, Alabama, where he remained until his retirement in 1965. At that time, he moved to Florida where he spent the remainder of his life. While employed by the G.M. &O Railroad, Harold met Kathryn George. On October 17, 1936 they were married in St. Louis and shared 58 years of marriage until Kathryn passed away January 14, 1995. They were members of the Ft. Myers Congregational United Church of Christ. Survivors include his daughter and son-in-law, Janet S. and Emmette P. Waite, Jr. of Ft. Myers. Grandchildren surviving are Julie W. Dean & her husband Robert S. Dean III of Auburn, WA; E. Phillip Waite III & his wife Suzanne M. Waite, of Ravensdale, WA; and Susan C. Black & her husband John S. Black of Seattle, WA. Surviving great grandchildren are Emory, Amy & Aaron Dean all of Auburn, WA; and Calvin, Christiana & Colin Black all of Seattle, WA. Harold was preceded in death by his wife Kathryn, his sister Lois S. Sutter, his brother Irvin H. Smith and half sister Laura S. Kurtzeborn.A memorial service will be held at 3:30 PM on June 14, 2005 at the Ft. Myers Congregtional United Church of Christ, with Rev. C. Alan Hogle officiating. Inurnment will follow at a later date in St. Louis, MO.. C. Alan Hogle officiating. Inurnment will follow at a later date in St. Louis, MO.

Fort Myers News-Press March 16, 2008 Helen M. Smith, passed away March 13, 2008 in Cumming, GA. Formerly of the Fort Myers area, she was a member of The Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord. She loved her cats and her chocolate, but especially her family.Helen was preceded in death by her husband Harlow, and is survived by her children, Sally (Dick() Orcutt, Don (Gerry) Smith, Jimmy Smith and Beverly (Clark) Atchison, 6 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren and her sister-in-law, Muriel Nichols.Visitation will be held Monday from 6-8 PM at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home. Funeral Mass Tuesday, 10:30 at the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord, Fort Myers. Burial to follow at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society.Arrangements under the direction of Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, 936-0555

Fort Myers News-Press-- 7 Feb 2007 June Elaine (Kitchens) Smith, age 70, of LaBelle, passed away February 4, 2007 in LaBelle. She was born June 14, 1936 in Irvington, Georgia to Henry Thomas Kitchens and Mildred Pauline (Jackson) Kitchens. She worked as an educator at the elementary, middle school and high school level. She retired in 1997 from LaBelle High School. Survivors include her husband: Tommy Smith of LaBelle, son: Scott Smith and wife Anna of Fort Myers and grandsons: Wyatt Smith and Morgan Smith of Fort Myers. She was preceded in death by her son, Stuart Smith.Funeral services will be held Fri. February 9, 2007, 11:00 am, Graveside at Fort Denaud Cemetery in LaBelle with Paul Puletti officiating. Public Visitation will be Thursday, Feb. 8 from 7-9 p.m. at Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle. Flowers may be sent to the services or donations made in Junes's honor to Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 366337, Bonita Springs, FL 34136.Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Fort Myers News-Press 25 Nov 2007 K. Gus Smith Jr., 83, of Fort Myers passed away Friday, November 23, 2007. Born and formerly of Massillon, OH, K. Gus proudly served with the Marine Corps from November 27, 1941 until April 25, 1946 where he served in the Pacific Islands during WWII. He was an active member of the Greek Orthodox Church since 1986 where he enjoyed spending time with his circle of friends. He also enjoyed working with flowers. K. Gus is survived by his 2 loving children Ted Lakkides and Marcia Diamant; sister Christine Kester; 4 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his brother George Smith and 2 sisters Frances Hoffee and Helen Ertle. A visitation will be held on Sunday, November 25, 2007 at the chapel of the Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home between the hours of 2 PM and 6 PM with a Trisagion Service at 5:30 PM. The funeral mass will be held at 10:30 AM on Monday, November 26th at The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church with entombment and military honors to follow at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Fort Myers Memorial Gardens 936-0555 www.fortmyersmemorialgardens.com

Fort Myers News-Press, Jan 27 2005-- Kenneth Leroy Smith, age 81, of LaBelle, passed away Jan. 25, 2005 in LaBelle. He was born Oct. 6, 1923 in Detroit, MI. to Walter Smith and Frances Rienicke Smith. Ken was a longtime resident of Fort Myers where he was a self employed General Contractor with Ken Smith Construction. Upon retirement, he and his wife, Elizabeth, moved to LaBelle in 1992. Ken was a veteran of the U.S. Army Air Corp, serving during WWII. He was a member of American Legion Post #130 in LaBelle. Survivors include his son: Bill Smith of LaBelle (Nancy), brothers: Don Smith of Ormond Beach and Jerry Smith of San Diego, CA, sister: Harriet Mills of Michigan, and grandchildren: Shawn Smith, Ryan Smith, Tristan Fischer-Smith and Logan Fischer-Smith. He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth in 1997 and daughter, Sandi Smith in 2004. A celebration of life will be held Sat., Jan 29, 2005 from 3-5 p.m. at Bill & Nancy Smith's home in LaBelle. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, 992 Tamiami Trail, Unit C-2, Port Charlotte, FL 33953 or by calling 800-227-2345. Arrangements by: Akin Davis Funeral Home-LaBelle

Fort Myers News-Press April 8, 2009 Lewis Carl Smith, age 52, of Fort Myers, passed away Sunday April 5, 2009. He was the son of the late L.D. smith and of Dorothy Ann (nee Kemp) Smith who still resides in Fort Myers. Carl leaves behind a son, Michael Ryan Smith; sisters, Caye Smith and Leslie Keen; nieces, Jennifer and Amy; nephew, Austin as well as many uncles, aunts and cousins. Carl will also be missed by many dear colleagues and friends. A memorial gathering will be held 3-4 PM Friday April 10th, 2009 with memorial services beginning at 4 PM the same day at the Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33916.

Ft. Myers News-Press, July 18, 2003 - Mary Gail Smith, 49, a resident of Lehigh Acres since 1989, passed away July 15, 2003. Mary Gail was born Nov. 21, 1953 Wauchula, FL., to Louis Smith, Sr. and Mary Hines, both of N. Ft. Myers. She was employed as an independent truck driver with Cypress Trucking. Mary Gail was an animal lover who enjoyed dogs, birds and horses. She was a loving mother and grandmother. In addition to her parents she is survived by her daughter; Crystal Gayle Clemmons, Lehigh Acres; two grandchildren; Chasity Diane Clemmons and Jamaul Owen Jackson; one brother Louie Smith, Jr., N. Ft. Myers; three sisters and their husbands; Tereasa & Joseph Coladarci, Naples, FL., Dale and Eldon Johnson, Lehigh Acres; and Jackie & Joe Richmond, N. Ft. Myers, FL., and her fiance'; Errol Minto, Lehigh Acres. Friends will be received from 12:00 noon until 3:00 PM., Saturday, July 19, 2003 at Christ United Methodist Church, corner of Lee Blvd. and Homestead Road, Lehigh Acres, where a service will be held at 3:00 PM. Interment will follow in Lee Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in loving memory of Mary Gail may be directed to her daughter. Arrangements by Farley Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press Dec 6, 2007-- Robert H. Smith, 76, of Murphy and N. Fort Myers, FL died Thursday, November 29, 2007 in an Andrews care facility. A native of Girard, IL he was the son of the late Samuel O. and Helen Heaton Smith. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War, serving in the US Navy as a naval aviator. In 1967, he went to work for American Airlines as a commercial pilot and retired in 1991 as a captain for the airline. His hobbies included camping, sailing, skeet shooting, wine making, and woodworking.Surviving are his wife of 40 years, Nancy Coogan Smith; three daughters, Lisa Smith-Ruvalcaba of Chelmsford, MA, Laura Royek of Apex, NC, and Vicki Smith of Springfield, MA; two sons, James J. Smith of Tucson, AZ and Robert O. Smith of Apex; a sister, Beverly Heinecke of San Anselmo, CA and six grandchildren.A funeral service will be held at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home on Friday Dec. 7, 2007 at 2 PM. Visitation will be 1 hour prior to service. Entombment will follow at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Fort Myers Memorial Gardens, 936-0555.

Fort Myers News-Press, 16 Jul 1998-- Ronald Coleman Smith, Jr., of Fort Myers, died Monday, July 13, 1998. He is survived by his mother, Margaret Tolbert; his father, Ronald Coleman Smith Sr., two grandmothers, Beatrice Hicks, and Bula Nelson of Fort Myers; six aunts: Virginia (Walter) Watkins, Patricia (John) Mitchell both of Fort Myers, FL. Marilyn (Dallas) Lacey of Thomasville, GA., Debbie (Charles) Nixon of Fayetteville, NC., Shirley Smith of Fort Myers, and Shirley Cummings of Fort Myers; one uncle, St. First Class Williams Hicks, Jr., of El Paso, TX. and a host of beloved cousins and close friends. Homegoing services will be held 1:00 p.m., Friday, July 17, from Mt. Hermon Baptist Church, 2856 Douglass St., with Rev. William L. Glover, Pastor, officiating. Interment to follow in Fort Myers Cemetery Hickson Funeral Home.

FORT MYERS NEWS PRESS Ruth E. Smith, 64, of No. Ft.Myers, died Monday. She was a lifetime resident, a member of Harbor Chapel and did volunteer work at Southwest Florida Regional Hospital and Meals on Wheels. Mrs. Smith is survived by two sons, John L. Thompson, Jr and fiancee Marlene, Larry Smith and wife, Becky of Orlando; seven daughters, JoAnne Cotner and husband Tom of Ft.Myers, Jackie Hutto of Lakeland, Carole Graham and husband Buddy of Orlando, Barbara Bullard and husband, Bobby of Alva, Linda Johnson and husband, Robert of Orlando, Julie Paoletta of Naples, Teresa Smith of Alva; one sister, Myrtle Bell of Debary, Fla, 23 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday at 2 p.m. from the chapel of Anderson Fuenral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd., with Rev. Jerry Hawkins officiating. Pallbearers will be F. T. Cotner, Troy Cotner, Kim Walker, Jason Walker, Carl Newman and Nick Spiller. Burial will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, June 11, 1945--Mrs. Sarah M. Smith, 88, died last night at the home of her daughter, Mrs. L. M. Sherouse, 215 Second Street. She leaves besides her daughter two sons, A. M. Smith of Lynchburg, Va., L. L. Smith of Tampa; and a sister, Mrs. Robert Watkins of Joliet, Ill. Mrs. Smith has made her home in Fort Myers since 1916. Funeral arrangements are in charge of Lawrence A. Powell and will be announced later.

Fort Myers News-Press April 17, 2009 Steven G. Smith, age 46, and a lifelong resident of Ft. Myers Beach, passed unexpectedly in his sleep on Easter Sunday, April 12, 2009.Steve married his high school sweetheart Lisa Woerner in 1982 at St Raphael's Church on Fort Myers Beach, and she remained the great love of his life throughout the nearly twenty seven years of their marriage. Steve is also survived by his children, Anthony; Anthony's wife Viviana; Michael Paul; and Jacob; sisters Gini Smith of Fort Myers and Terri Walrod (Jim) of Ann Arbor, Michigan; and by several nieces and nephews, all of whom adored him. He, in turn, loved all of them very much, and was an important guiding force in their lives.His father, Paul G. Smith pre-deceased him. His mother, Roxie Smith, is a Fort Myers Beach resident and well-known Lee County and Fort Myers Beach community leader. Steve and his sisters grew up on Fort Myers Beach at the Pink Shell Resort, then a family-owned-and- operated cottage resort. His grandfather, Bob Davis (who with wife Johnnie started the Pink Shell) believed if the kids were old enough to say, "Hello" they were old enough to work at the resort. Steve began delivering papers to resort guests with his grandfather at age 5, and never looked back. He worked at the resort in various capacities until the family sold it in 1989. Steve's accomplishments include getting his Real Estate license; successfully completing firefighter and EMT training; earning a degree in Architectural Drafting; and obtaining his general contractor's license. Steve loved the building industry, and took great pride in the work he did. He also loved gardening, and grew beautiful flowers. He was involved for several years when his boys were younger in the Boy Scouts of America and was for several years a Little League coach.Steve and his cohorts were among a very lucky few who grew up in the days of skiing on the back bays and traveling everywhere they wanted to go by boat. He knew the waters surrounding the island by heart and knew the location of every snook hole in the area. He was in every sense of the word a true beach boy.A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 18 at St. Raphael's Episcopal Church, 5601 Williams Dr, Fort Myers Beach, FL.

Fort Myers News-Press, 5 Apr 2006 -- William A. "Bill" Smith, 79, of Lehigh Acres, FL went home to be with Jesus with his loving family at his side April 1, 2006. He was preceded in death by his mother, Pearlie Smith, his father, E.A. "Frog" Smith, and brother, George. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Eloise Snyder Smith, 1 daughter, Sharon (Jim) Collins, 2 sons, Billy (Becky) Smith, Tim (Darla) Smith, 8 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and his brothers E.A. Smith and Quinton Smith. He was born in St. Petersburg, FL July 27, 1926. He moved to Fort Myers from Clewiston, FL in 1942. He served 18 months in the Army with 6 months overseas during WWII. He was a salesman until he went to the Post Office where he retired. Bill was known for his Christian testimony and his love for people. He sang and promoted Gospel music with his family for 32 years. He was also president of Christian Fellowship of Fort Myers for 28 years. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends. Goodbye Bill, we'll see you in Heaven someday. Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 8, 2006 at 1 PM at New Life Assembly of God Church, 507 Sunshine Blvd., Lehigh Acres. The family will receive friends 12-1 PM at the church. Lee Memorial Park

Fort Myers News-Mar 14, 2007 William Ernest Smith, 66, of Marianna died Sunday, March 11, 2006 at Jackson Hospital in Marianna.A native of Ft. Myers, Mr. Smith was a retired Delta Airlines employee, a member of Masonic Lodge 709 in Riverdale, Georgia, was presently employed at The Arthur G. Dozier School and a member of Providence Baptist Church.Mr. Smith was preceded in death by his father, William Ray Smith and a brother, Mark Lee Smith.He is survived by his wife, Carol Smith of Marianna; Two sons, Steve Ernest Smith, Kevin Ray Smith and wife Narda all of Georgia; one grandson, Mason Alexander Smith of Georgia; his mother, Barbara Smith of Ft. Myers and one sister, Phillis Ann Gutknecht of Bonita Springs.Funeral services will be conducted at 10am, Wednesday, March 14, 2007 at Maddox Chapel with Revs. Willie Butler and Dallas Ellis. James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel directing. The family will receive friends 6 to 8 pm Tuesday, March 13, 2007 at Maddox Chapel. FMHS 1958

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, March 31, 1938--William F. Smith, 58-year-old Kansas City, Mo., storage company official, died yesterday at Lee Memorial hospital as the result of a cerebral hemorrhage Sunday. Accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Grace Smith, Mr. Smith had been in Fort Myers four days after spending the season at Winter haven. The body will be shipped Friday to Kansas City for services and interment. Besides his wife he is survived by two sons, William E. of Omaha, Neb., and Charles E. at Missouri State university; six sisters, Mrs. Ellison Neel, Mrs. E. H. Bachman, Mrs. Clifford Jones, Mrs. Sam Sebree, Mrs. Mable Saunders and Miss Marian Smith of Kansas City; a brother, E. B. Smith of Kansas City. Spooner & Engelhardt are in charge of arrangements.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, August 2, 1936--Stephen L. Smithhart, 64 year-old garage operator, died last night at the Lee Memorial Hospital as the result of a heart attack. He had been ill for the past year. Mr. Smithhart came to Fort Myers 25 years ago from Des Moines, Iowa and had many friends in Lee County. Funeral arrangements will be made by Lawrence A. Powell.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, December 17, 1950-- John Newton Smoot, 88, died at his home in Tice yesterday after a long illness. He was born Dec. 23, 1861 in Edenburgh, Va., and was a retired school teacher. He had been a resident of Tice for the past four years. He is survived by his daughter, Mrs. O. M. White of Tice; two granddaughters, Miss Carrol White of Lakeland and Miss Lois Elizabeth White of Fort Myers and one grandson, Roger John White of Fort Myers. He was a member of the Assembly of God Church. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 2 p.m. at the Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Rev. Walker officiating. Interment will be in the Fort Myers Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-11-16 - Rylee Logan Snead, age 3 months of Moore Haven passed away November 15, 2004 at HealthPark Children's Hospital in Ft. Myers. Rylee was born July 27, 2004 at Ft. Myers to Ronald Lee and Kimberly "Hart" Snead. Survivors include her parents, Ronald and Kimberly Snead, Moore Haven; a brother Alan Kyle Adams, Moore Haven; maternal grandparents Henry & Shirley Freechette, Ft. Myers, Frederick and Belinda Hart of Zolfo Springs, paternal grandparents Peggy Jones, Clewiston, Charles Snead, Danville, VA, maternal great-grandmothers Cassie Johnston of Lehigh Acres, Jesse Hart, N. Ft. Myers, paternal great-grandparents Doris Moore, Danville, VA and James W. Dillon, Martinsville, VA. Visiting with the family will be Wednesday, Nov. 17th at Akin-Davis Funeral Home in Clewiston with Rev. Gary Corley officiating. Burial will follow at the Ortona Cemetery. The family suggests memorials to your local March of Dimes or the Ronald McDonald House at HealthPark.

Fort Myers News-Press, Dec 27 2004-- Jane Helene Snell, of Fort Myers, passed away on December 25, 2004. She was born in Moose Lake, Minnesota on July 8, 1916 to parents S.A. and Etta Jacobson. Her brothers Nathaniel and John, sister Alberta, and husband Perry G. Snell, Sr. preceded Jane in death. Jane moved to Fort Myers in 1945 when she wed Perry. She was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Fort Myers for fifty-nine years. She and her husband were the owners of the Pines Motel; and Jane retired from Edison National and Barnett Bank. Jane was the former president of the Pilot Club, and enjoyed playing bridge regularly with her friends. Jane is survived by her son Frank A. Snell and his wife Margie, of Fort Myers, FL, stepson Perry G. Snell, Jr. and his wife Janann, of Sarasota, FL, loving grandchildren Martha Snell Lynn of Venice, FL, Robert Snell of Pisgah Forest, NC, Kerri Snell Kokinda of Buffalo, NY, Laura Leigh Snell and Casey Ann Snell both of Fort Myers, FL. Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press, Feb 23 2005-- John E. Snell, 79, of Ft. Myers, died Monday, February 21, 2005 at Hospice House, south Ft. Myers. John was born to Milo and Margaret (Cool) Snell in Muncie, IN on October 23, 1925. He served in the Merchant Marines during World War II and moved to Ft. Myers 30 years ago. Prior to his retirement, he was the owner of John's Outboard on Pondella Rd., in N. Ft. Myers. He is survived by his wife, Julie M. Snell (Dildine) to whom he was married for 16 years, step-daughters, Cheryl Murray and husband Mark of Sylmar, CA and Daphne Berlin and husband Drew of Astoria, NY. His sister Mary Grobey and husband Rodney of Grobey of Sebring, FL and his grandchildren Daniel Murray, Kathryn Berlin and several nieces and nephews also survive him. A memorial service will be held at Hope Hospice Chapel on March 5, at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family would welcome donations to Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Ft. Myers, FL 33908 in John's name. Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens.

Fort Myers News-Press, Feb 11 2005-- Charlotte Alvey Snelson, 95, of Ft. Myers Beach died February 9, 2005, she was born in Detroit, MI, a daughter of the late Paul and Amelia Lokuta. Charlotte was a teacher in the Detroit Michigan Schools for 40 years, upon her retirement she went on to a new life and moved to Ft. Myers Beach where she has been a resident for 35 years. Charlotte considered herself blessed with many beautiful years in "Paradise". Charlotte is survived by her nephew Loren Winn of Cape Coral, great niece Eleanor R. Winn of Ft. Myers Beach many other nieces, nephews and a large extended family that dearly loved her. Mass of Christian Burial celebrating her life will be conducted in the Church of The Ascension, Ft. Myers Beach today at 10 AM. Entombment will be in Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press--Jan 21,2009 Carl B. Snipes, 91, of Lehigh Acres, passed away Saturday, January 17, 2009. He was born December 22, 1917 in Winston-Salem, NC and moved here from Washington, D.C. in 1980, after a distinguished 35 year career of governmental service with the National Labor Relations Board. He was past Fire Commissioner of the Lehigh Acres Fire Control and Rescue District, a member of the SW Florida Regional Planning Council and was the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Dr. Piper Center for Social Services. He was very active with the Board of Directors of the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, was a member and past President of the Kiwanis Club of Lehigh Acres. Carl was also a member of the Lee County Black History Society.Mr. Snipes is survived by his two sons: Carl, Jr. and Michael, seven grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. Also surviving is his very close friend, Norma Lane. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Romelia M. Snipes and his daughter, Pensy Snipes-Belton.Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 24, 2009 at Christ United Methodist Church of Lehigh Acres, 1430 Homestead Rd., N., Lehigh Acres, with entombment to follow in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Friends will be received from 10:00 AM on Saturday until the time of the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Kiwanis Club of Lehigh Acres Scholarship Program, the Christ United Methodist Church of Lehigh Acres, 1430 Homestead Rd. N., Lehigh Acres, FL 33936 or Hope Hospice of Lee County, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908Funeral arrangements by Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907. 239-936-0555 www.fortmyersmemorial.com

Fort Myers News-Press April 28, 2006 Kathryn Brawner Snow, 72, passed away on April 25, 2006 in Jacksonville, Fl. She was born January 29, 1934 on Caxambas Island to her late parents, John Brawner and Willie Mae Brawner. Kathryn moved to Fort Myers at age 11 where she lived for the majority of her life. She was predeceased by her loving husband of 26 years, Dr. Marcus L. Snow, and also by three brothers, Otis, J.C. and Lamar Brawner, and her one sister, Janice Moser. Kate is survived by her son, Marcus L. Snow, Jr.(FMHS 1978), daughter-in-law, Cheryl, and three grandsons, Marcus L. Snow, III ("Trey"), Zachary and Jeffrey Snow all of Jacksonville. She is also survived by her brother, Jack Brawner (FMHS 1946), of Hernando, Fl and several nephews and nieces including Wade Moser who was like a second son to her. A memorial service and celebration of Kate's life will be held Saturday, April 29, 2006 at 930 am at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home where following the service she will be laid to rest adjacent to her loving husband, Marc, in Memorial Gardens' Garden of Prayer.

Fort Myers News-Press, Feb 27, 2005-- Phyllis Ann Townley Soderholm, 76 of Ft. Myers died peacefully at her residence, Wednesday, February 23, 2005. She had been a resident here for the past 42 years formerly of Atlanta, GA. Phyllis was a member of the Delta Airline Stewardess Association and was the First Lady Wrestling Referee in Florida. Surviving are her husband, Jack Soderholm of Ft. Myers, daughters, Susan Ann (John) Stormant of Alachua, FL and Jaime Lou (Jack) Cribbs of Hendersonville, TN, sons, Jon Scott (Mary Lou) Soderholm of Homestead, FL and David Edward Soderholm of Miami, FL, brother, Edward Townley of Ft. Myers, FL and grandchildren, Sean, Matthew, and Rebecca. A gathering of family and friends will be held on Wednesday from 3-6 PM at the Wheel House at the Landings, Ft. Myers, FL. The family prefers that in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Friends of Lovers Key Inc., 8700 Estero Blvd., Ft. Myers Beach, FL 33931 or the Lee Memorial Health System Foundation, 9800 S. HealthPark Dr., Suite 210, Fort Myers, Florida 33908. Kiser Funeral Home

THE FORT MYERS PRESS, Jan. 11, 1921--George S. Sofford, of this city, died at his home shortly before noon yesterday after a short illness. Funeral services were held at 2:30 o'clock this afternoon at Roberts Undertaking Company's chapel, the Rev. Haeflinger, pastor of the Methodist church, in charge and interment was made here. Mr. Sofford was a veteran of the War Between the States and was in his 78th year. He is survived by one daughter, Mrs. A. S. Haas of Washington, D. C., and two stepsons, M. E. Church of Falls Church, Va. and C. D. Church of Fiveoaks, Va.

Fort Myers News-Press October 3, 2009 Mary Ann Sapp Solomon went to be with her Lord and to rejoin her beloved late husband on October 1, 2009. Born in Fort Myers on July 17, 1922, she was a proud 2nd generation native of Lee County. Her family were pioneer Floridians who sailed here from Louisiana in 1883.Mary Ann attended historic Edison Park Elementary and graduated from Fort Myers High, where she met the love of her life, Ellis Solomon. They married in 1940 and lived in the same house on Clifford Street from 1947 through 2004. Ellis was public and outgoing while Mary Ann was private and reserved. She supported her husband enthusiastically but preferred to remain in the background. She truly was "the wind beneath his wings." Before health took its toll, she was an avid reader and worked as a volunteer helping others to achieve literacy. She was also active in Little League support groups, Cub Scouting and the PTA. She was a wonderful mother, a friend to all who sought her discreet counsel and a cook beyond compare. Throughout her entire life, Mary Ann's lighthouse for living was her rock solid belief in the Christian faith. She and Ellis rarely missed a Sunday service at the First Baptist Church of Fort Myers where they were lifelong members. She was active in its auxiliary organizations, Sunday School and she particularly enjoyed her friends and her time in Bible study. Moreover, she honestly lived her faith each and every day. Mary Ann is preceded in death by her father, Ira Sapp, her mother, Eunice Maywald Sapp (Raymond), her brothers, Bill M. Sapp and Charles Howard Sapp, her cousin, Ann Eva Carter, and her beloved husband of 64 years, Ellis Solomon. Her passing is mourned by her son, Ron Solomon (Fort Lauderdale and Key West), her cousins, Julia Pearl Keen and Arthur Barron, Jr. (Fort Myers), her cousin Jewel McDowell (Bradenton), numerous nieces and nephews and many friends. The family wishes to pause in this solemn moment to express sincere gratitude to the caring staff of Calusa Harbour Senior Living Community and Hope Hospice. Thank you Katie, Gerald, Penny, Daniel, Shelley, Julie and the other wonderful people who cared so lovingly for "Miss Mary Ann". Special thanks, also, to Dr. Robert Pritt, DO and Melissa Grubb, PA, ultimate professionals who combined skill and sensitivity in administering the highest quality of medical care.Dr. Winford Hendrix will officiate the celebration of life on Wednesday, October 7, 2009, at The First Baptist Church of Fort Myers, 1735 Jackson Street, Fort Myers. Family and friends will be received in the Activities Center Atrium from 1:30pm until 2:00 pm. The service shall begin promptly at 2:15pm in the main sanctuary. Internment will follow at the cemetery on Michigan Avenue and all guests are invited. Arrangements are entrusted to the Anderson-Patterson Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that remembrances be in the form or donations to the First Baptist Church of Fort Myers or a simple prayer.’’

Fort Myers News-Press, Dec 17 2004-- Maureen J. Austin Sorce, 51, of Okeechobee, FL., a former Ft. Myers resident of 32 yrs., passed away Sunday December 12, 2004. Maureen was born May 18, 1953 in Tacoma, WA. She was a registered nurse for 15 yrs. practicing nursing in Lee, Collier, Charlotte and DeSoto Counties. She had a great love for art and animals leaving a farm in Okeechobee behind to her husband and children. She is survived by her husband, James R. Sorce of Okeechobee, FL; 2 sons, James DeHays and Nicholas Sweeney both of Ft. Myers, FL; Sister Pam (David) Fields of Ft. Myers, FL and their children William and Kyle and great niece Ashlyn. Brother Joel (Colleen) Austin and their children Sierra and Logan. Brother Ronald Austin and his children Elijah and Allie. Brother Albert Austin and his son Mason. Aunt Sylvia Austin of Okeechobee, Fl. Funeral mass will be celebrated at Blessed Pope John XXIII Catholic Church 8991 Daniels Center Drive, Suite 105, Ft. Myers, FL. 33912 .

Thursday, May 12, 2005 -- Gustavo Soriano, age 9, died in a car accident on May 7, 2005. Gustavo was born in Lancaster, CA and had lived here for seven years. He was a student and he enjoyed soccer, reading and Lehigh Senior High School Sports. He is survived by his parents: Gustava Soriano and step-mother Sherri Soriano of Fort Myers; sister: Ashley Summerall; and brother: Juddie Summerall of Clewiston. Services will be at Christ Community Church, 4050 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. The viewing will be May 15 from 5-8 p.m. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. on May 14 with Rev. David Lane officiating. Akin-Davis, Riverdale, is in charge of arrangements.

Ft. Myers News Press, November 5, 1997 - Johnnie A. Soto, 79, a lifelong resident of Estero, FL, passed away on November 3, 1997. Johnnie was a commercial fisherman for the past 50 years, and a distinguished World War II Veteran who was honored with a purple heart. Johnnie is survived by his loving daughters, Ellcina Soto McKuen and Norma Soto Williams; 2 grandsons, Lee Hutto and Brian Bailey; great granddaughter Samantha Hutto; sister Julia Hall; and brother, Robert Soto.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2001-01-23-- Gilbert Soud, age 70, of Lake Placid, died on January 20, 2001 at Jacksonville. He was born August 12, 1930 at Jacksonville to Abraham Caliste Soud and Souritha Shediac Soud. He has resided in Lake Placid for the past two years where he attended 1st Baptist Church of Lake Placid. Gilbert is a former resident of Felda. He was self employed as a Dentist until he retired two years ago. Survivors include his wife: Juelda Soud of Lake Placid, sons; Chris and Carey Soud, both of LaBelle and Steven Soud of Ft. Myers, daughter; Andrea Skiera of Ft. Myers, brothers; Salem and Voctor Soud and A.C. Soud Jr., all of Jacksonville, and nine grandchildren. Funeral Services will be held TODAY, Tuesday, January 23, 2001, 10:30 a.m. at Eastside Baptist Church in LaBelle with Reverend James Caves officiating. Burial will follow at Fort Denaud Cemetery in LaBelle.

Ft Myers News-Press, July 20, 2003 - Rose Marie Sparacino, 69, of Ft. Myers, died on July 18, 2003. She was born February 23, 1934 in Brooklyn, New York the daughter of Joseph and Frances (Perchanti) Dellicurti. She leaves to cherish her loving memory, her beloved husband, Sam Sparacino of Ft. Myers, 2 sons, Joseph Sparacino of Ft. Myers, and Vincent (Theresa) Sparacino of Las Vegas, NV., as well as 2 grandchildren Kristy and Jessica. Visitation will be on Wednesday July 23, 2003 from 10:00-11:00 AM at Phil Kiser Funeral Home, 9231 Cypress Lake Drive, Ft. Myers, FL. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday at 12:00 at Saint Columbkille Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Lee Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes contributions in Rose Marie's loving memory be made to, Sam Sparacino, 15594 Beach Pebble Way, Ft. Myers, FL. 33908. Funeral Arrangements under the direction of Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Sept. 24, 1932--J. A. Spaythe, 61 years old, died yesterday at the Lee Memorial hospital. Funeral services are being deferred pending word from two daughters who reside in Ohio, Mrs. Ross Riley of Akron and Mrs. D. J. Dawson of Dayton. Mr. Spaythe operated a chicken farm on the Ballard road. Lawrence A. Powell is in charge of funeral arrangements. Sept. 25, 1932--The body of J. A. Spaythe, 61-year-old chicken farm owner who died here Friday, will be sent ot Galios, Ohio today for burial by the Lawrence A. powell Funeral home. He leaves two daughters, both of Ohio.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-06-25 -- Lt. Colonel James M. Spearing, 78, of Ft. Myers died June 21, 2004. Jim was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on Sept. 29, 1925. He served in the US Army for 27 years and was awarded the Bronze Star. He is a veteran of WWII, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Upon retiring from the military, he was a professor of Political Science and History at Edison Community College, Ft. Myers, FL for 21 years. He is survived by his wife Margaret, seven children: Eileen Harden of Palm Beach Gardens, FL, Jim (Conny) Spearing, Jr. of Tallahassee, FL, Margaret (Fred) Schwartz of Ft. Myers, FL, Betsy Spearing of Tallahassee, FL, Neil Spearing of Santa Rosa Beach, FL, Mary Spearing of Tallahassee, FL, Leo Spearing of Palm Beach Gardens, FL, a niece, Melody O'Shea of Brandon, FL. He leaves seven grandchildren: Jeremy Harden, Bradley Harden, Kristen Schwartz, Kelley Ann Spearing, Amy Schwartz, James Spearing, III and Danny Spearing.Following cremation, his ashes will be placed at Florida National Veteran's Cemetery, Bushnell, FL.

Fort Myers News-Press January 28, 2009 Specie, Joseph Glenn, 78, a resident of North Fort Myers died Saturday, January 24, 2009 at Manor Care in Fort Myers. Joe was a native of Moberly, Missouri and the son of Joseph and Edith (Mitchell) Specie. Joe worked as an electrician in Moberly before moving to Fort Myers, where he retired from Comcast Cable TV after 30 years. Joe served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War and was a Deacon of the North Fort Myers First Baptist Church. In his free time he enjoyed woodworking. Joe is survived by his wife of 30 years, Nancy Specie; sons, David (Terry) Williams and Gary (Karen) Williams; daughters, Kathy (John) Fick, Linda Specie, and Sarah "Kathy" Conrad (deceased); and brother Roy (Loretta) Specie. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. Funeral services for Joe will be held 9:00 AM Friday, January 30, 2009 at the North Fort Myers Baptist Church. Interment will follow at the Fort Myers Cemetery on Michigan Avenue. Friends may call from 5 to 7 PM, Thursday, January 29th at Coral Ridge Funeral Home, 1630 SW Pine Island Road, Cape Coral

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Aug. 13, 1955 - S. A. Spencer, 66, a resident of Fort Myers for the past six years, died at his home yesterday after a long illness. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. S. A. Spencer of Fort Myers, a son, Charles Spencer; four sisters, Mrs. Henry Martin, Mrs. Charles Fox, Mrs. L. L. Whitaker and Mrs. Mary Neely, all of Asheboro, N. C.; one brother, Colon Spencer of Carthage, N. C.; and two grand-children. He was a member of the Episcopal Church of Fort Myers and a 32nd degree Mason, a Shriner and an Elk. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press -- Mar 29, 2009 Salvatore Paul Spilotros, age 87, of Del Tura, N. Fort Myers, FL passed away Thursday at Cape Coral Hospital. Sal was born in the Bronx, New York and died of heart disease. Sal served in the US Army from 1942 through 1946 and in 1946 earned a Purple Heart. He also was in the Battle of the Bulge. He retired from the US Postal Service in the early 1970's where he had given them 33 years of service in order to move to Cape Coral. Upon arrival he opened up a bait and tackle shop at the Cape Coral Yacht Club and loved to play poker with the guys and watch the beautiful women walk the beach. He was an avid motorcyclist and was even riding his motor scooter just days ago. He was an active member of the Italian American Club, American Legion, Elks, Eagles, VFW and St Theresa's Catholic Church.He was a great husband who he shared most of his life with his wife, Connie. He was a father, grandfather, great grandfather and great-great grandfather. He is preceded in death by his beautiful wife of 58 years, Augusta "Connie" Spilotros, and his parents, Josephine and Adolf Spilotros. He is survived by a sister and brother, Jeannie Fiorello, and Terri and Raymond Spilotros, two children, Arlette and Gary Spaniak, Sr., and Linda and Dennis Spilotros, four grandchildren, Jodi and Gary Spaniak, Jr., Denise (Spaniak) and Mark Houghtaling, Deanne Spilotros and Danielle Spilotros, fourteen great grandchildren Kasey and Gary Spaniak III, Samantha Spaniak, Alexandra Bransfield, Arlette Bransfield, Brittney Bransfield, Brandi Bransfield, BillieJo Bransfield, Caitlin Houghtaling, Amber Houghtaling, Dallas Weeks, Ryan Catterson, Rory Catterson, Cadence Spilotros and McKenna Spilotros, four great-great grandchildren, Clayton Joel Chester, Abigale Spaniak, Beau Chester and Payton Partain, a niece, Jeannette Fiorello and companion, Betty Borchardt.Someone said, even though Sal did not have a college education, he was the absolute smartest man he'd ever met. They surely don't make them like they used to. Visitation will be Sunday evening from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the Metz Chapel at the Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home, 1306 Lafayette St., Cape Coral. Funeral services will be held Monday morning at 11:00am at St. Theresa's Catholic Church, 20115 North Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers. Immediately following church services, Sal will be laid to rest at the Coral Ridge Cemetery, 1620 N.E. Pine Island Road, Cape Coral.

Pensacola News-Journal Sep 27, 2008 AUGUST 22,1946-SEPTEMBER 13, 2008 James Stewart Spooner - husband, father, brother, coach, friend. As a young boy growing up in Fort Myers, Jimmy loved the outdoors-fishing, hunting, playing sports His love of baseball began in his youth, continued at Fort Myers High School(1964,) then took him to Edison Junior College and on to Florida State University. His passion for the game turned into a career that spanned 35 years, giving him many opportunities to influence the lives of young men. Loved by many and respected by all, Jimmy spent untold hours developing both the talent and the character of the young men he coached. That mutual love and respect was apparent by the efforts of former players to name the University of West Florida baseball field in his honor, an act that both filled him with joy and humbled him. During his courageous journey over the past year, he was continually encouraged by the many cards, emails, calls, and visits from his family, his friends, and his former players. He will be remembered as a good man who always took time for everyone who needed him, as a family man, and as a man with a strong sense of character who loved the Lord. Jimmy's memory will be cherished by his wife of 36 years, Carolyn, his daughters Jamie (Timothy) Sousa and Lindsay (David) DeWald and his two grandchildren, Carson and Caroline. His presence will be missed by his brother Phillip (Carolyn) Spooner and his sisters, Jeanette (Harry) Brown and Donna Jo (Frank) Cline, his extended family, and countless friends. The family requests in lieu of flowers donations be made to the University of West Florida Foundation, Inc., designated to the Coach Jim Spooner Endowment Fund. Visitation is at Faith Chapel North on September 18, 2008, from 5-7 PM. The celebration of his life will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, September 19, 2008, at Hillcrest Baptist Church, Pastor Jim Locke officiating. Interment will follow at Bayview Memorial Park. Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 Highway 29 South Cantonment is in charge of arrangements.

Fort Myers News-Press, 12 Aug 2007-- Annelle Wells Spranza, age 95, of Cape Coral, Florida, born July 28, 1912 in Gainesville, FL, passed away August 10, 2007.She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Marilyn and John LaBarbera and grandson, John A. LaBarbera and numerous nieces and nephews throughout the United States. She loved and spoiled the family pet Pomeranian dog, Jackie. She was married in Yankeetown, Florida to William James Spranza. He preceded her in death in 2001. They were married for 67 years and resided in Cape Coral since 1972 where they were members of St. Andrew Catholic Church. She accompanied her husband on his Air Force military assignments in the United States, Europe and the Far East.She was preceded in death by her parents, May Alice Yonge and John Lawrence Wells and her only brother, Chandler Ido ("CI") Wells.She was a native Floridian with a family history dating back to 1813. Her grandfather, Chandler Yonge brought the first bricks into the Tampa Bay area. She was a Charter Member of the Cape Coral Hospital Auxiliary. She was a member of the Monday and Friday Bridge Clubs, Club 68, Gourmet Club, Italian-American Auxiliary and Symphony Women.The family will receive friends on Thursday evening, August 16, 2007 from 6:30 - 8:30 PM at Fuller-Cape Coral Funeral Home-Cremation Service, 3740 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral, FL 33904. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 AM Friday, August 17, 2007 at St. Andrew Catholic Church with entombment to follow in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the St. Andrew School Endowment Fund, 2628 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral, FL 33904

Fort Myers News-Press Mar 20, 2006 Sandra Wynell Daniels Spurlin, 62, died Friday, March 17, 2006. Born in Ft. Myers, Florida she moved to Brevard County in 2003. She was retired from the Lee County School Board. Sandra enjoyed animals, cruises, shopping, and especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. Her family includes her husband of 44 years, Jere Spurlin; son, Todd Spurlin; son, Chris Spurlin and his wife, Stacy; daughter, Brandy Froncak and her husband, Clayton; mother, Esoline Stanford; step-mother, Barbara Daniels; sister, Christi Betts and her husband, Clif; sister, Melody Meinhardt and her husband, Jerry; brother, Charles Daniels and his wife, Tammy; brother, Rusty Graham and his wife, Dee; brother, Kevin Graham; grandchildren, Lance Spurlin and Kealey Froncak; numerous nieces and nephews; dear friends; and her four legged companion, Willow. She was preceded in death by her beloved father, C.B. Daniels. Calling hours will be Thursday, March 23, 2006 from 5pm to 7pm at the South Brevard Funeral Home, Melbourne, with services following at 7 PM. Arrangements entrusted to South Brevard Funeral Home, Melbourne, 321-724-2222

Ft Myers News Press, 2004-05-05 -- Daniel Attila Stachowiak, 26, of Kent Technologies, was lost in a boating accident on April 27, 2004. He gave his life in an attempt to save another. Dan was a respected Cisco Engineer in the Collier and Lee County Business community. Dan is survived by 2 children, Simone Airianna (5), and Chloe Melissa (3), his wife of 6 years, Alicia Pershell-Stachowiak, his mother Margie Houghton, his aunts; Christine Johnson and Lilly Moberg, his uncle Joe Stachowiak, his sister Jill Levenhagen, his in-laws, Richard and Kathy Pershell, and Ms. Charlie Galvin-Hurd, and his sister-in-law, Sarah Pershell. His loss is great, as is our love for him. He will forever be remembered and missed. A memorial service for those who knew Dan will be held on Saturday, May 8, at the Santa Barbara Clubhouse (2114 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral, FL 33991-4344) from 1-3 PM, with a eulogy at 1:30. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, a donation to be made for his children, at First National Bank (or FNB), PO Box 413043, Naples, FL 34101-3043, payable to In Trust for Simone A. and Chloe M. Stachowiak; or any First National Bank Branch Office.Arrangements by Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home. 334-4880.

Fort Myers News-Press, Oct 14, 2006 -- In loving memory of Joan M. Stadtman of Fort Myers, Florida, a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, who passed away at age 75 on October 12, 2006. Joan was born on May 14, 1931 in Livingston, NJ. She married her high school sweetheart Charley and reared three children. Joan enjoyed a rewarding career in education. Prior to her retirement and relocation with her husband to Fort Myers, Florida, she was honored by Princeton University as the New Jersey Distinguished Teacher of the Year. Joan enjoyed her travels throughout the world with her husband, cooking, and time spent with her friends and family.She is survived by her children Lynn J. Griffith, Sharon Rannelli, and Thomas Stadtman; her grandchildren Charley Griffith, Valerie Griffith, Dawn Rannelli, and Tara Rannelli; and her cousins. Viewing will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Friday, October 20, 2006 with services commencing at 2:00 P.M. at Lee Memorial Park, 12777 ST. RD. 82, Fort Myers, Florida (239)334-4880. Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home, 334-4880.

Fort Myers News-Press, Oct 14, 2006 -- In loving memory of Lambert C. (Charley) Stadtman, devoted family man who passed away at age 78 on October 12, 2006. Charley was born on June 10, 1928 and lived with his wife Joan in Livingston, NJ until their retirement and relocation to Fort Myers, Florida in 1982. Charley served in the U.S. Navy in World War II and was awarded the American Theater Medal and the victory Medal. He had a distinguished career in law enforcement with the Livingston Police Department. Charley enjoyed fishing, his travels throughout the world with his wife, and time spent with his friends and family. He is survived by his children Lynn J. Griffith, Sharon Rannelli, and Thomas Stadtman; his grandchildren Charley Griffith, Valerie Griffith, dawn Rannelli, and Tara Rannelli; and his many nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and nephews.Viewing will be held on Friday, October 20, 2006 at 1:00 P.M. with services commencing at 2:00 P.M. at Lee Memorial Park, 12777 St. Rd. 82, Fort Myers, Florida, (239) 334-4880. Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home, 334-4880.

THE FORT MYERS PRESS, March 8, 1922--Mrs. Catherine Staffeld, aged 69 of Saginaw, Mich., died at 1 o'clock this morning at the Lee Memorial Hospital. She came to Fort Myers with her husband on Thanksgiving day and had been at the Cottage Home Hotel untilseveral days ago when she was admitted to the hospital where she died. Mrs. Staffeld and her husband left here last year for their home and were injured in a railroad wreck in Kentucky. Mr. Staffeld suffered a broken shoulder and collar bone and several slight injuries, while Mrs. Staffeld suffered internal injuries. Drs. Parnell and Johnson performed an autopsy this morning at the mortuary home of L. W. Engelhardt, finding that death occured from injuries of the stomach.Mrs. Staffeld was the wife of Charles Staffeld. Mr. Staffeld and two sons were at the bed side when the end came. Paul W. Staffeld left this morning for their home in Saginaw., Mich. to make arrangements for the funeral there. The body will be shipped tomorrow.

Fort Myers News-Press June 10, 2008-- Corella P. Stahl, 72, of Fort Myers, passed away Sunday, June 8, 2008. Corella was born June 28, 1935 in Morehead City, NC, the only child to Lewis and Mary (Bloodgood) Piner. Her family moved to Fort Myers in 1937 when Corella was just 2 years old and then moved to Pine Island where they owned and operated Piner's Seafood. She was a 1953 graduate of Fort Myers High School and after graduation she attended Bob Jones University and Stetson College. Corella was an accomplished musician and over the years she has served as music director at many local churches: Pine Island Baptist Church, First Christian Church, Riverside Baptist, Shell Point, and St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church to name a few. Corella delighted in sharing her love of music with Fort Myers children, as she has given piano lessons for many years. She was a woman of faith and music director at St. Francis Catholic Church. Corella leaves behind her four children, Patricia (Keith) Parker of Fort Myers, Lewis Johnson of Fort Myers, Marilou (Greg) Clark of West Unity, Ohio, and Robert Johnson of Louisville, KY, 9 grandchildren, Keyla, Jessica, Brittany, Kristen, Russell, Robert, Justin, Marshall, and Alley, and 3 great-grandchildren, Samantha, CJ, and Jared.The family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 11th, 5-8 PM, at Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, June 12th, 1:00 PM, at St. Francis Catholic Church, 2157 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers, with entombment to follow at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made in Corella's name to St. Francis Xavier Services to the Elderly, 2055 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901. Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home of Fort Myers is in charge of arrangements.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, July 8, 1936--Velora Stallings, two-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. N. Stallings of LaBelle, died yesterday at Lee Memorial hospital from an attack of pneumonia. Besides her father and mother she is survived by a sister, Peggy. Services will be held at 3 o'clock this afternoon at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel on First street. Interment will be in the Fort Myers cemetery.

THE FORT MYERS PRESS, Sept. 9, 1929--Louise Stallins, 18-year-old girl, died of self-inflicted gun wounds Sunday afternoon at the home of her brother-in-law, J. C. connor, of Sears. Internal hemorrhages resulting from a pistol ball through the girl's breast caused her death before a doctor could arrive from the nearby community of LaBelle. Miss Stallins lived at the home of her brother-in-law and sister who were at a loss to explain what appear to be a clear case of suicide. The girl was alone in her room during the afternoon and at about 3 o'clock Mrs. Connor heard a pistal shot. She rushed into her sister's room and found her lying on the floor with a heavy pistol close to her side. Dr. C. E. Weaver was summoned from LaBelle but he did not arrive until after the girl had died. A search made of the girl's room failed to disclose any message or throw any further light on the act. The remains were brought to Fort Myers last evening by a motor hearse from the new Lawrence A. Powell funeral home on First street. Mr. and Mrs. Connor will accompany the remains to Surrency, Ga.,, this afternoon where the girl is survived by her mother and father, Mr. and Mrs. David Stallins. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday morning at Surrency.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Nov. 18, 1935--Mrs. Carrie Stalls, 70, died yesterday after a long illness at the home of her son, Bryan Stalls of North Fort Myers. Funeral services will be held at 2 o'clock this afternoon at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel on First street with the Rev. W. H. Edwards officiating. Interment will be in the Fort Myers cemtery. Pallbearers will be Charles Metz, Walton Gilliam, W. P. Henley, William Jeffcott, Charles Starnes and Ed Barden. Besides her husband, C. W. Stalls, Mrs. Stalls is survived by three sons, Bryan and Sam of Fort Myers; two daughters, mrs. M. f. George of Canal Point and Mrs. J. A. Touchstone of Homeland, Fla.

Ft. Myers paper, Feb. 3, 1949 - Samuel Stalls, 57, a former resident of Fort Myers, who moved to Miami in 1940, died at a Miami hospital Sunday after a short illness. He was an electrician and a member of the Loyal Order of Moose. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Hazel Stalls; a daughter, Mrs. Ray Olson; a brother, Howard B. Stalls of Miami; and two sisters, Mrs. J. F. George, Canal Point, and Mrs. J. A. Touchstone, Homeland, Fla. Services will be held here Tuesday at 2 pm from the Lawrence A. Powell chapel with the Rev. Guy Owen officiating. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press Feb 16, 2009 Aaron Hulce Stancel, born April 27, 1926, Fort Myers, FL passed this life on February 13th. Aaron was preceded in death by parents, Howard and Roberta Stancel; brother, Roy; and sisters, Bessie and Pauline. He is survived by 2 sisters, Roberta and Lottie; 2 sons, Mark (Joanne) and Greg (Sheila); 1 daughter, Beverly (Billy); 6 grandchildren, Shea, Brandon, Andrea, Nicole, Matthew and Courtney; and 6 great-grandchildren. He served in the US Navy during WWII and Korean War. He is a lifetime member of VFW and American Legion.Visitation will be at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, February 17th, at Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home, 12777 SR-82, with services following at 2:00 PM, (239) 334-4880.FMHS 1946

Fort Myers News-Dec 29, 2008 William (Bill) Stancel Sr, 73, passed away Saturday, December 27, 2008. He was born in Fort Myers, FL, on June 21, 1935. He graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1954. He married his highschool sweetheart, Joan (Wadlington) with whom he would have celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary this coming February. He was a self-employed businessman who built custom trailers and buggys along with dealing in produce. As a native Floridian of Cherokee descent, he was an avid sportsman who spent many of his years in the Everglades hunting and fishing. He was a devoted family man who cared deeply for his children and grandchildren. He was also a faithful servant to the Lord, who diligently worked to win over countless souls to Him. He is survived by his loving wife, Joan Stancel; son, Bill Stancel, Jr., (wife, Kim) Alva, FL; daughters, Gayle Inge (husband, Michael), N. Fort Myers, FL, Teri Stancel Green (husband, Teddy), Highlands, NC, Marla Cartright Tetlow (husband, Eric), N. Fort Myers, FL; brother Cecil Stancel, Jr. (wife, Betty Ruth), Fort Myers, FL; sisters, Betty Jean Roller (husband, Don), Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, Judy Gomes, Fort Myers, FL. He also left behind 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by daughter, Lisa Kelli Stancel; parents, Cecil and Cleo Stancel; sister, Sylvia Halbrook (husband, Ralph); and granddaughter, Niki Cartright.Services will be held at Sonshine Worship Center, 12925 Palm Beach Blvd., on Tuesday, December 30, 2008, with Pastor Bobby Calvert officiating. Visitation for family will begin at noon, friends at 1 PM, and services to begin 2 PM.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - June 2, 1960-- Angel mass for Andrew Burch Stanley, age two, son of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond J. Stanley, 2156 Victoria Ave., will be said 11 a.m. Friday from St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church with Father Joseph H. DeVaney officiating. Pallbearers will be Frank and Anthony Daniele, Raymond Myrne and Don Garrison. Interment willbe in the Fort Myers Cemetery. Other survivors include a brother, Michael D. 5; a sister, Katherine E. 3; maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. A. A. Burch, Crestview, Fla., and paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. James Stanley, Belmar, N.J. Arrangements are by the Harvey Funeral Home.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, Sept. 12, 1930--Funeral services for Mrs. Charity Hand Stark, 83, who died yesterday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Colonel Halgrim, at 615 Seminole avenue, will be held at 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon at the Lawrence A. Powell funeral home. The body will be taken to Humboldt, Iowa, Sunday morning for burial in the Union cemetery there. Colonel Halgrim will accompany the body back to Iowa. Mrs. Stark died from the effects of a stroke suffered two weeks ago. Since that time she has failed rapidly and died at 7 o'clock Thursday morning. other daughter, Mrs. Gertie Ruth Hunt, Thief Rivber Fall, Minn.; two sons, Harry L. Stark, Mankato, Minn. and Merritt C. Stark, Luther, Iowa; three brothers, Fletcher Hand, Long Beach, Calif.; Hendry Hand, Glenn Dale, Ariz., and Edgar Hand, Louisburg, Kans. She has made her home with Col. and Mrs. Halgrim since 1915. Herhusband died in 1908.

Fort Myers News-Oct 27, 2003 Daniel M. Starks, 21, a Police Officer with Ft. Myers Police Dept., went to be with the Lord, Saturday, Oct. 25, 2003, following a motor vehicle collision while on duty in Ft. Myers. He was born on January 17, 1982 in Ft. Myers, the son of Jerry and Kathe Starks. Daniel was an active member of the First Christian Church of Ft. Myers, the Ft. Myers Police Explorers Post, a former Boy Scout and a volunteer Firefighter with the Bayshore Fire Department. In his brief 21 years, he was dedicated to a life of serving others and the Lord. He is survived by his loving parents, Jerry and Kathe Starks, Cape Coral, his maternal grandparents, Carl & Virginia Wolf, Flushing, MI, 2 brothers, Andrew and Benjamin Starks, Cape Coral; and his fiancee, Jessica Ruhl, along with his many friends, police officers and firefighters. Visitation will be held at the First Christian Church of Ft. Myers, 2061 McGregor Blvd., Ft. Myers, on Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2003, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A service celebrating Daniel's life will be held at the First Christian Church on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2003, at 1:00 PM. Full honors will be accorded at the Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. FMHS 2000

Charles Lawrence Starnes

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Thursday, June 21, 1979 C. Wilson Starnes Sr., 73, of St. James City, died Tuesday. He was a lifelong resident of Lee County. He was an executive in banking in Lee County for 56 years. He was the son of the late Charles and Dora Starnes. He is survived by his wife, Christina Chapman Starnes of St. James City; a daughter, Mrs. Patricia Starnes Highsmith of Dalton, Ga.; a son, Charles Wilson Staranes Jr. of Fort Myers; six grandchildren, Charles Wilson Starnes III, Mark Chapman Starnes, Erin Sue Starnes, Tracy Chapman Highsmith, Michael Wilson Highsmith and Susan Christina Highsmith; a sister, Mrs. Carolyn Starnes DePew of Fort Myers; an uncle, F. E. Starnes, and one nephew. He was a 52-year member of BPOE Lodge 1288 of Fort Myers, a past master of Tropical Lodge 56, a member of Noah Lodge 357, a 32nd Degree Mason, a member of the Scottish Rite, and a member of St. John's Episcopal Church of St. James City. The family will receive friends today from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Harvey Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd. Funeral will be held on Friday at 2 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Chruch in St. James City with the very Rev. C. A. Comfort officiating. Burial and graveside Masonic services conducted by Noah Lodge 357 will take place at 3:30 p.m. at Fort Myers Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - March 4, 1959 Mrs. Dora A. Starnes, 79, of 1648 Royal Palm Ave., daughter of pioneer Fort Myers settlers, died yesterday. She was born here June 20, 1879, and had lived here her entire life. Mrs. Starnes leaves her husband, Charles L. Starnes; a son, C. W. Starnes; a daughter, Mrs. Carolyn DePew; two sisters, Mrs. Carmen Prince of Fort Myers and Mrs. Iola Mitchell of Jacksonville; two grandsons, Larry Ligon and Wilson Starnes Jr. of Fort Myers; a granddaughter, Mrs. Norwood Highsmith of Dalton, Ga., and seven great-grandchildren. She was a member of First Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 10 a.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Revs. John Rooks and John Few officiating. Burial will be in Fort Myers Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Burton Stewart, Martin Way, James B. Roberts, Ned Barden, Murl Carter and Joseph A. Ansley. Honorary pallbearers will be Capt. Arthur Wintle, Ben King, Dr. Ernest Bostelman, Ed Barden, Gilmer Heitman Sr., M. L. Cheshire and A. T. Jameson.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - December 23, 1982 Finis Ewing ("Unk") Starnes, 77, of Fort Myers, died Tuesday, in Fort Myers. Born in Mt. Pleasant, Texas, and moved to Ft. Myers in 1914. Surviving is his wife, Hazel L. Starnes, of Ft. Myers; one son, Judge Hugh E. Starnes, of Ft. Myers; daughters, Marjorie Starnes of Ft. Myers and Suzaanne Santa Maria of Sanibel Island; stepson, Julian Clarkson of Tallahassee, FL; stepdaughter, Hazel Hough of St. Petersburg, FL and 15 grandchildren also survived. Funeral services will be conducted at graveside Friday morning at 11 a.m. at the Fort Myers City Cemetery with Rev. Bryan Robinson officiating. Pallbearers will be George Mann, Sr., Lloyd Hendry, James Franklin, Jr., Wilson Ward, Lynn Gerald, Sr., Judge Robert T. Shaffer, Jr., Bill Stewart and Ernest Hatch. Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - March 27, 1989 Hazel Lamar Starnes, 86, of Fort Myers, died Sunday. A 58-year resident of Fort Myers, formerly of Coral Gables, Fla., she was a menber of St. Luke's Episcopal Church, D.A.R., U.D.C., Colonial Dames; former member of the Fort Myers Public Library Board of Directors, and the Royal Palm Yacht Club. Mrs. Starnes was preceded in death by her husband, F. E. Starnes. She is survived by two sons, Judge Hugh Starnes of Fort Myers, Julian Clarkson of Tallahassee, Fla.; three daughters, Suzanne Santa Maria; Marjorie Starnes-Stephens, both of Fort Myers; Hazel Hough of St. Petersburg, Fla; 17 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.Memorial service will be conducted Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, with the Rev. R. Bruce Ryan officiating with graveside service following at 12 noon at Fort Myers Cemetery. Arrangements by Harvey-Engelhardt Fuenral Home, Colonial Chapel.

FORT MYERS PRESS - October 25, 1888 Mr. Charles H. Stebbins died in this city at 12:10 Tuesday morning, aged forty-six years. The cause of Mr. Stevvin's death was a gunshot would through the left lung, received in the war between the States. Proper resolutions of respect will be found in today's paper. Business was generally suspended and all our citizens united in paying their last sad tribute to the memory of a good and enterprising citizen. We join with our people in feelings of great regret at his early demise, and extend to his bereaved widow, child and relatives our sorrow for their great affliction. Peace to his ashes.

Fort Myers News-Press, Dec 2 2004-- Richard Slayton Stebbins, 82, of Ft. Myers, FL departed this world on November 29, 2004.Known to his friends as "Dick" and his family as "Pop", he is survived by his beloved wife of over 61 years, Lucille Wassink Stebbins, two daughters, Constance Elaine and Susan Christine and their respective husbands Robert Lynch and Charles Parrish. He leaves behind five grandchildren; Kevin and Brian Lynch and Scott, Drew, and Meghan Parrish. A sixth grandchild, Christine Lynch, preceded him in death as did his parents and his brother, John, of Ft. Myers. He was an avid golfer, a gardenia grower, and served his country in World War II. As a gunnery officer aboard the LST 292, which first deployed troops and tanks to Omaha Beach during the invasion of Normandy and then served as a hospital ship for the wounded. Stebbins shared his memories of WWII with the News Press on the 50th Anniversary of D-Day and the dedication of the WWII Memorial. A graduate of Pennsylvania State University, Stebbins was born in North East, PA where he resided for 61 years and participated in numerous community and civic activities until he retired to Ft. Myers in 1982.

Fort Myers News-Press--Jan 13,2009 Marietta J. Steinmetz, 64 died peacefully on January 11, 2009. Her husband Edward, son Sam, and daughter Eva were at her bedside.She was born on February 4, 1944 in Kennett-Square, Pennsylvania to William and Angelina Smith. She grew up in Miami, Florida where she met her future husband, Edward F. Steinmetz in tenth grade Biology Class. She graduated with Honors from Miami Senior High School and attended University of Florida where she received a Master's in Spanish and taught until 1969 when her husband graduated from Medical School.She then traveled to San Francisco where she worked at Pan Am as a ticket agent, where she also taught English as a second language.In addition to her teachings in California she also taught English in Barranquilla, Columbia.Her students loved her for her skills and patience and continued to stay in touch. She was a loyal and devoted wife and mother. Her first son Benjamin was born in San Francisco, her two other children Samuel and Eva were born in Fort Myers. She was active at Saint Luke's Church in Fort Myers and Saint Paul's Episcopal Church in Key West where she was loved by her friends and family. Her smile truly "made one's day". A friend said that, "she had a wonderful way with words and a compassionate and empathetic ear". She will be missed by all who met and loved her. Services will be held at 5:00 PM, on Thursday, January 15, 2009 at St. Lukes Episcopal Church; 2635 Cleveland Avenue Fort Myers, Florida 33901. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hope Hospice or Susan G. Komen for the CureSusan G. Komen for the CureSusan G. Komen for the CureSusan G. Komen for the Cure. Condolences may be viewed and offered at: www.harvey-engelhardt-metz.com

Fort Myers News-Press, Mar 126 2005-- Margaret E.Monaghan Stejskal, age 87 of Ft. Myers passed away peacefully Monday morning, March 14, 2005 at Shell Point Hospice. She was born August 19, 1917 in Pocahontas, Iowa, the daughter of Edward and Mary Monaghan. Mrs. Stejskal lived in Pocahontas, IA where she and her husband owned and operated a farm. She moved to Cape Coral in 1969 and lived there until 1995 when she moved to Ft. Myers. She was a member of St. Cecilia Catholic Church and enjoyed gardening, cooking and most of all her family. She was the wife of the late Frank who died in August 2001, at the time of his death they had been married for 53 years. She is survived by her sons, Jim (Betty-Jane) and Bill (Candi), all of Ft. Myers, her grandchildren, Barrett (his fiance, Christina Shapiro), Kate, Christy (Lee) Blosser, Dustin and Rebecca and her great grandchildren, Jersey and Roaden. A concelebrated Mass of Christian Burial will be on Thursday, March 17, 2005 at 3:30 Pm in St. Cecilia Church, 5632 Sunrise Drive, Ft. Myers. Burial is private. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, March 16, 2005 from 6:00-8:00 PM in the Ft. Myers Memorial Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd. (239) 936-0555.

Fort Myers News-Press, March 12, 2007 - Bruce James Stelzenmuller, 22, of Fort Myers died by an accident March 10, 2007. Bruce was born in West Islip, NY, a son of Catherine and Bruce A. Stelzenmuller. Bruce moved to the local area in 2003 from Amelia Island, FL, he worked detailing cars at the B.M.W. and Mercedes dealership. Bruce enjoyed surfing and snowboarding and was an music and movie lover, he was a member of St. Cecelia Catholic Church. Bruce is survived by his mother Catherine L. and father Bruce A. Stelzenmuller, his sister Amanda Stelzenmuller, his maternal grandmother Irene Markarian, his maternal grandfather Vito N. Lombardo, many uncles, aunts and cousins. A funeral mass celebrating his life will be conducted in St. Cecelia Catholic Church on Wednesday at 10:30 AM. The family will receive friends at the Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home on Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home 239-936-0555.

Fort Myers News-Jan 16, 2005 Reverend Gerald Nathanial Stephens, 77, passed away Dec. 30, 2004 at his home in Wylie Texas. Gerald was preceded in death by his father and stepmother, Cecil E. and Edith McLeod Stephens of Ft. Myers, FL and sisters, Gloria Ann Stephens Charles (FMHS 1950) and Dora Louise Stephens Payneb(FMHS 1956). Survivors include an adopted son Chris L. (Linda) Stephens of Wylie, TX, granddaughter Christy Stephens of Wylie TX., grandson Nathan L. (Christy) Stephens, great granddaughter Christy Roy Stephens, all of Wylie TX., brother, David E. (Ellen) Stephens of Spring City, TN., sister Dorothy Stephens Coleman of Fort Myers, FL., aunts Velda (Clarence) Thompson Hersey of Chattahoochee, FL, Lucille (Laverne) Thompson Holmes of Ft. Pierce, FL and Lois Thompson Merrifield of Sarasota, FL., uncle Cylde (Dorothy) Stephens of Land O Lakes, FL., and many cousins, nieces and nephews in Ft. Myers, FL., Lakeland, FL and Cumming, GA. Gerald attended FMHS and Edison College in Fort Myers. He attended FSU and several Colleges and Universities in preparation for the priesthood. Gerald was born Feb 16, 1927 in Bartow Florida and grew up in the Ft. Myers area. He enlisted in the military, serving both in the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Army for 30 years. He served in both the Vietnam War and the Gulf War. He also served in Iceland, Germany, Panama, Alaska, Louisiana and Michigan. After retiring from the Army as a Major, he settled in Wylie, Texas where he served as an Assistant Priest in the Dallas Fort Worth Diocese. Arrangements were made under the direction of Allen Funeral Home in Wylie, TX.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - December 8, 1952-- John R. Stephens, 69, Marco Island resident who had seen the county's outer reaches grow from almost-barren wilderness to modern farm and recreation area, died yesterday. He had been a resident of Goodland for the past 51 years, coming to Florida as a child and to the Estero area as a boy of 16. He chose to spend his life in and about the islands of Florida's southwest coast and few men knew them better, his friends said. Survivors include two sons, Raymond A. Stephens, St. Petersburg, John R. Stephens, Goodland, two daughters, Mrs. Mattie C. Wisner, Tampa, Miss America Stephens, Goodland, and 4 grandchildren. Funeral services will be held today at 2 p.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt funeral home with Dr. J. Donelson Jones officiating. Pallbearers will be J. C. Brawner, Buddy Weeks, Bud Kirk, Robert Griffis, John Ludlow and Kenneth Vogstad. Interment will be in Fort Myers cemetery.

THE FORT MYERS PRESS - October 19, 1926 The body of Mrs. Juana Rojas Stephens of Caxambas will arrive on the noon train tomorrow, accompanied by Mrs. J. M. Barfield, Mr. Stephens and his son Raymond. The funeral services will be held at 4 p.m., Wednesday, at the Barfield home, 245 Lee Street, in charge of L. W. Englehardt, mortician. Mrs. Stephens was taken to the Kellum hospital in Richmond, Va., something more than a month ago, for treatment, and succumbed to her illness there on Sunday. Mrs. Stepehns is survived by her husband, John R, and four children, Raymond, 17, Mattie 16, America 15, and John, Jr. 9, her brother J. M. Barfield, and her mother and five sisters, residents of Caxambas. (Fort Myers Cemetery)

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-07-04 -- Jean E. Stern, 85, of Ft. Myers, Fl., died July 2, 2004. She was born in Yokohama, Japan, a daughter of the late Edward W. and Ethel M. Maitland. Jean received schooling in Switzerland and England and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, she was an actress when she lived in Kenya, East Africa where she also farmed from 1946 to 1962 at which time she moved to Canton, CT where she lived until moving to the Ft. Myers area in 1991. Mrs. Stern is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law Anthony and Carole Foster, of Ft. Myers, John and Sally Foster of England, her grandsons Graham and David, her great granddaughter Molly, her niece Susan Ellis of Cromwell. Ct., she was predeceased by her husbands Donald Foster in 1965 and Larry Stern in 1985. Cremation arrangements by Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press June 18, 2009 Heaven Ah'Zaria and Tavarien Stevens passed away June 14, 2009. They are survived by their mother, Lakeshia Pointer; father, Frederick Stevens; two sisters, Ka'Norie and DaShanti; two brothers, JaVieane and Ah'Mari; grandparents Mary and Michael Pointer, Chanetta Campbell-Brunson; great grandparents, Delia Pointer, John and Annie Campbell and a host of other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held 1:00pm, Friday, June 19, 2009 at the Hickson Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral services entrusted to Hickson Funeral Home Inc., 3308 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Fort Myers, Florida, 334-6440

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, Dec. 9,1927--Funeral services for Hiram Stevens, former Fort Myers boy, who died in Miami Tuesday, will be held this morning at Engelhardt's chapel at 11 o'clock. Pallbearers will be Kenneth Bryant, Granville Bryant, Reese Smith, Warren Bylaska, Lafayette Armeda and Ernest McDonald. Burial will follow in the Fort Myers cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press April 18, 2008 Jim Troy Stevens, 1914 - 2008 was born in Lois, Florida. He was preceded in death by his wife, Loma Stevens, sons: Jimmy Stevens and Troy Stevens and daughter, George Ann Osborne. He is survived by daughters: Donna Strayhorn (Guy), Grace Waite, Annie Tibble (Dave) and Susan Piscitelli (Gary); 13 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren and 1 great, great grandchild.As a child, he lived in various lumber camps in South Florida and his family finally settled in N. Fort Myers where he attended the one-room school house on Moody Road and later graduated from Fort Myers High School. In his teen years, he delivered telegrams to Thomas and Mina Edison. Later, he distributed the News-Press to outlying communities.He learned his trade as a carpenter helping to construct Fort Jackson in South Carolina and then worked for various Southwest Florida contractors. He then established Stevens Cabinet Company in N. Fort Myers where, for many years, he built quality cabinets for homes, local schools, banks and the Edison Home. His warm personality and quick wit endeared him to all those around him. He will be missed by all who knew him and loved him.Funeral services will be conducted at 3:30 PM Saturday, April 19, 2008 at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home with burial to follow in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Friends will be received from 5-7 PM on Friday, April 18, 2008 at the funeral home. The family requests memorial contributions to the Lifeline Family Center, 907 SE 5th. Ave., Cape Coral, FL 33990.Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, 239-936-0555.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Feb. 8, 1936--Mrs. Julia I. Stevens, 89 years old, died early yesterday morning at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Mabel McLean, at 43 Patio de Leon. She had been an invalid for several years, coming from Georgia to Florida in 1881 and having lived in Fort Myers for the past 11 years. Mrs. Stevens is survived by two daughters, Mrs. McLean and Mrs. Frances D. Jones of Tampa, one son, Joseph M. Stevens, and seven grandchildren, Mrs. Olin R. Gay and Donovan McLean of Fort Myers, Frank Jones of Tampa, Mount and Jack Stevens of Jacksonville, Bronson and Carlisle Stevens of Cairo, Ill., and two great-grandchildren, Donnie McLean and Janice Gay. Funeral services were held yesterday afaternoon at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel with the Rev. William G. Kennedy and the Rev. Carlock Hawk officiating. The pallbearers were Hugh Senneff, E. Hollis, W. Gibson, Charles Gibson, Chesley Perry, C. L. Hanshaw, A. C. Carlton, J. H. Hart, Stewart Senneff, Howard Fitzgerald, Harry McWhorter, Walter D. Moody. Interment was at the Fort Myers cemetery

FORT MYERS PRESS, December 16, 1922 Mrs. Lucinda Stevens, age 88, the mother-in-law of W. W. Robins, passed away at her home at the end of Second Street sometime last night. She was found dead in bed when her daughter, Mrs. Ida Robins, called her for breakfast this morning. Mrs. Stevens was the widow of George Stevens and was born and reared in Canada. Funeral services were held at 4 o'clock this afternoon at the Mortuary Chapel of L. W. Englehardt. Burial took place in the Fort Myers Cemetery.

St Petersburg Times 10 Aug 2005-- Roger Harry Steward, 75, died Aug 8, 2005 in Indian Rocks Beach, FL. He was born on Sept 5, 1929 in Beaver Falls PA as Charles Bernard McFrederick to Charles and Maria Martinez McFrederick. Roger was later adopted by Blanche Doudna and Harry Steward and grew up in Cleveland, OH. A graduate of Eastman School of Music, his first professional job was on tour with the Clyde McCoy band. Later he played trumpet for many years with the Oklahoma Symphony Orchestra, taught music at University of Oklahoma and was teacher and mentor to dozens of private students. Following his retirement from the Symphony he joined the Peace Corps and served in Guatemala. At his home in Florida he continued teaching until his death. He is survived by daughters Shevaun Steward Kuhn and Hillary Appen, grandson Richard Appen Jr, and former spouse, Feodora de Grasse Steward. He was preceded in death by his son, Roger Steward Jr.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, June 24, 1927--Charles G. Stewart, 75, died yesterday at the Lee Memorial hospital where he had been taken for a cancer operation. Funeral services will be held by Rev. F. A. Shore at 3 o'clock this afternoon at the Engelhradt funeral home. The body will be buried in Detroit. Survivors are his wife, Ellen, a daughter, Mrs. R. Hughten of Detroit, one son, S. M. Stewart of this city, a brother, Johnson Stewart of Detroit and three sisters, Miss Belle Stewart and Mrs. Murray Voigt of Detroit and Mrs. George McGuire of Fort Myers.

Fort Myers News-Press Jul 2, 2000 Eleanor R. Stewart, 85, of Fort Myers, died Wednesday, June 28, 2000, in Fort Myers. A native of Long Island, New York, she was the daughter of Elizabeth and Henry Reibling and had come to this area in the 1930s with her family. Mrs. Stewart had been an active member of the St. Francis Xavier Catholic community. She had been a member of the Mothers' Club of St. Francis Xavier School in 1946, where she was instrumental in providing the first cafeteria for the school. She had been the third president of the Mothers' Club, which is known today as the Home and School Association. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Floyd B. Stewart (FMHS 1931); her three sons, Larry (Pat) Stewart (FMHS 1956) of Miami, Don Stewart (FMHS 1961) of Fort Myers, Alan (Ava) Stewart (FMHS 1971) of Fort Myers; her grandsons, Scott (Beth), Todd, Drew and Walker Stewart; her great-grandson, Austin Stewart; her sister, Marge Link (FMHS 1935) of Fort Myers; her brother, Henry Reibling of Beverly Hills, Florida; and her very good friend, Bill Eddy of Fort Myers. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:30 a.m. Monday, July 2000, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, with Father Marian Konobroki celebrating. Committal services and interment will be in Memorial Gardens Cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. in the Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd.

Fort Myers News-Jul 11, 2008 James Burton Stewart, 79, passed away July 11, 2008, in Altamonte Springs, FL. He was born in Fort Myers, FL, on September 4, 1928 to Gladys and R.B. Stewart. He grew up in his father's business, R.B. Stewart & Son, and took over when his father passed away. He belonged to the Elks Club, Rod & Gun Club, and the 200 Dance Club. He enjoyed boating with family and friends, playing the piano, and flying. After earning his pilot's license he joined the Civil Air Patrol. Burton was known for his fun loving personality, great attitude. He always had an infectious smile on his face, making others feel better by being around him. Burton is survived by his wife of 60 years, Matha, Altamonte Springs, daughters Carolyn Blakely, Altamonte Springs, Connie Smith, Highlands, NC, and three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Donations can be made to Vitas, a hospice group, 5151 Adanson St., Orlando, FL 32804. FMHS 1947

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, March 7, 1933--John W. Stewart, 52, died yesterday morning at his home on Sanibel island. Mr. Stewart had lived on the island for several years. Survivors include four sons, Gentry, John, Ernest and James and two daughters, Ellen and Sidney. Funeral services will be held this afternoon at 3 o'clock at the home with the Rev. Hubert Dodd officiating. Burial will be in the Captiva cemetery. L. W. Engelhardt & Son have charge of arrangements.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, March 1, 1944 Funeral services for Mrs. Mary E. Stewart, 79, who dies at her home in Larchmont, will be held this afternoon at 4 o'clock in the Lawrence A. Powell chapel with the Rev. Frank Ireland of the Episcopal church officiating. The following will act as pallbearers: Active, J. D. Walker, E. L. Daniels, Fred J. Henry, Shep Bass, J. E. Shafner and M. E. Mills; honorary, John Borning, N. G. Stout, R. V. Lee, R. L. Thompson, Oscar Sheets, Paul Denington, Les Sheets, Ed Theegarten, W. C. Cooledge and J. D. Dermon. The Order of the Eastern Star of which Mrs. Stewart was a charter member will have charge of the services at the grave. Mrs. Stewart and her husband, L. C. (Uncle Lew) Stewart, celebrated their 61st anniversary last Oct. 1. Coming to Fort Myers with her parents when she was only two years old, Mrs. Stewart was prominent in the Episcopal Church, the Eastern Star and other activities here, particularly during the pioneer years of the city. (Fort Myers Cemetery)

Fort Myers News-Press Nov 18, 1999 A Celebration of Life gathering was held in Eugene Oregon, Nov. 1, 1999, for Dr. Sarah Emily Stewart of Eugene, OR, who died Oct. 19 of pulmonary disease. She was 76. Dr. Stewart was born Sept. 3, 1923, in Fort Myers, FL to Willie Warner Stewart and Marjorie Goolsby Stewart. She graduated valedictorian of her class of 1941 at Ft. Myers High School. She earned a bachelor's degree in psychology at Florida State University, a medical degree in pediatrics at Tulane University, and a medical degree in psychiatry at Oregon Health Sciences University. Survivors include her life partner of 23 years, Dr. Jeanine Bennett; a brother, Dr. Thomas (Tinker) Stewart (FMHS 1947) of Lebanon, OR and sister, Frances (Dede) Jacoby (FMHS 1943) of Fort Myers Beach, FL.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Jan. 21, 1936--Franklin Stiles, 55-year-old farmer, was found dead at 8:30 o'clock last night in a lane 200 yards from his home at Alva and law enforcement officers investigating the case were of the opinion that he had taken his own life. Stiles apparently blew his brains out with a .38 calibre pistol which was found a few feet from the body. Stiles' body was found by his son, Raymond, who said his father had been depressed over money matters and had been drinking during the day. Raymond and other members of the famly heard the shot but did not find the body for at least 30 minutes. Stiles is survived by is wife, Mrs. Minnie Stiles, five sons, Paul, Ernest, Raymond, Jack and Roger, three daughters, Annie Belle, Pearl and Nobel, two brothers, Edell and Charlie, and two sisters, Mrs. Stafford King and Mrs. Minnie Rogers, all of Alva. The body was turned over to Lawrence A. Powell.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Aug. 10, 1955 - Jacob William Stiner, 82, a resident of Fort Myers for the past eight years passed away here yesterday afternoon. He is survived by three sons: Robert Stiner of Baltimore, Md; Raymond Stiner, stationed in Japan; and Stanley Stiner of Jersey Shore, Penn.; three daughters: Mrs. Gordon Snook of Jersey Shore, Penn.; Mrs. George Lunger, and Mrs. James Lee also of Fort Myers; one brother, James Stiner of Williamsport, Pa, 20 grand-children and 19 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at Leo W. Engelhardt funeral home 10 a.m. Thursday with Rev. E. F. Mayton officiating. Pallbearers will be Kennedy Carson, Eugene Hamilton, James Lee, Philip Mercer, Emmett Johnson. Interment in Fort Myers Cemetery.

Ft Myers News-Press, June 5, 2001 - Iris A. Stinson, 80, died in Fort Myers June 4, 2001, she was formerly of Lehigh Acres. She was born in Hickeys Creek Olga, FL the daughter of the late S.L. and Urmia Rutledge she was a life long resident of the local area, for many years. Iris and her late husband David owned and operated Orange Groves in Olga. She was a member of Church of God. Mrs. Stinson is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Barry and Patti Stinson of Fort Myers Beach and her brother and sister-in-law, Aubrey and Lou Rutledge of Fort Myers; two grandsons, Cole and Ben Stinson. She was preceded in death by her husband David D. Stinson in 1996. A funeral service will be conducted in the Farley Memorial Funeral Home on Thursday, June 7, at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be in Lee Memorial Park.

Fort Myers News-Press, 20 Nov 2005-- Our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, friend and mentor, Edythe Buck Stokes, passed away peacefully November 18, 2005 in the loving arms of her family at Hope Hospice. Ede was born in Lansing, Michigan December 13th, 1928 to Christine and William T. Jenkins. Her grandparents, Bailey and Edythe Buck came to Sanibel in 1902 as tourists, bought a cottage next to Island Inn and came for the winter each year until they died. Ede's first steps may have been taken on Sanibel where her family spent at least a month each winter until relocating to Orlando, Florida where she grew up. She moved to Sanibel in the fall of 1949, where she married and then lived in Nova Scotia, Washington, DC and Germany until returning home to Sanibel where she raised her five children. She worked for U.S. Fish and Wildlife at Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge for 32 years, retiring in 2003 and building a home in Lehigh Acres. Ede was also Sanibel's Avon lady for 30 years. Ede is survived by her sons, Marty, Tom and Rick Stokes, her daughters, Chrys Webb & Barbara Strickland; by her daughters-in-law Joni, Dianne and Pat Stokes; by her son-in-law Butch Webb; her grandchildren, Rachel, Luke, Jonathan, Alexis and Kelsey Stokes, David and Melissa Webb, Nicholas Strickland, Eric Potts, and Mindy Dickman; her great grandchildren, Gessie and Ariana Restrepo; her sister and brother-in-law, Milbrey and Jack Rushworth; and several nieces and nephews and many loved and loving friends. She will be greatly missed by all. A memorial service will be announced when arrangements have been completed. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Ding Darling Wildlife Society, 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel, FL 33957.

FORT MYERS NEWS PRESS, April 13, 1933--Burns received when a gasoline marine engine on which he was working exploded, proved fatal to Everett Terrell Stokes yesterday morning. Following the accident, which occurred March 26, the 17-year-old fisherman was rushed to the Lee Memorial hospital. Funeral services for the youth will be held in Arcadia at 3 o'clock today after which interment will be made in the Oak Hill cemetery. The Rev. W. H. Edwards, jr., of Fort Myers will conduct the seervices. Surviving are his father, J. E. Stokes, three brothers, J. E. jr., John and Winston, and one sister, Hazel. Lawrence A. Powell has charge of the funeral arrangements.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, June 3, 1932--Funeral services for Dr. George Stone, who died Wednesday evening following a brief illness, will be held at 5 o'clock Saturday afternoon at the home at 927 Hoople street. The Rev. J. F. Bell, pastor of the First Methodist church, will officiate at this services, while the Masonic lodge will have charge of services at the graveside. Hundreds of the doctor's friends viewed the body yesterday as they paid their last respect to one of Lee county's most prominent residents. The body lay in state at the L. W. Engelhardt and Son funeral home until late in the afternoon, when it was removed to the residence for the services Saturday afternoon. N. G. Stout will read the Masonic ritual as the body is lowered into the grave at the local cemetery. Dr. Stone's death came with shocking suddenness following an illness of a few days. He had contracted a cold early last week but did not regard the ailment as serious. Mrs. Stone summoned Dr. H. Quillian Jones Wednesday afternoon and he found her husband suffering from lobar pneumonia. A few hours later Dr. Stone was dead...Active pall bearers wil be selected from the Masonic membership, it was announced last night, but no list had been completed. Members of the Lee County Medical association will act as honorary pall bearers. Dr. Stone was president of the association.

Fort Myers Daily News, Apr 19, 1918 -- DIED AT CAMP WHEELER WEDNESDAY;REMAINS BROUGHT TO ARCADIA TODAY Arrangements for the funeral of J Franklin Stonebraker, who died Wednesday of this week at Camp Wheeler are planned for the services to take place from the residence of his father in Arcadia at 4 o’clock and conducted by the Rev F A Shore. Friends of Mr Stonebraker in Fort Myers were shocked to learn of his death at Camp Wheeler, Macon GA, Wednesday morning at 9:30 of spinal meningitis. His father had been notified of his son’s illness and reached his bedside before he passed away. He is survived by father, mother, three sisters, wife and two brothers, one of whom is Sgt George stonebreaker now at Camp Wheeler.

Fort Myers News-Press July 2, 2009 Joseph Edward Stonis, 101, of Cape Coral died Monday, June 29, 2009, under the loving care of Hope Hospice. He was born March 27, 1908, in Newark, N.J., to Matis and Ana Stonis.He leaves behind his wife, Doris Butts Stonis, a blind date that turned into 36 years of friendship and love. They were married May 7, 1981. He never used "step" in speaking of Doris's two adult children, Barbara (John) Hill of Fort Myers Beach and Roger (Pam) Butts. He was much loved as a grandfather to Stephanie and Courtney, daughters of Roger and Pam, all of Cape Coral.He also leaves his only daughter, Patricia Beckwith, her two children, Kathy Hayes and Henry Beckwith II, and great-grandchildren, Brian Beckwith and Katy and Stephanie Hayes, all of Jacksonville.He moved to Cape Coral 28 years ago from Memphis, Tenn., after retiring from C.P. Hall of Chicago. He embraced the city of Cape Coral with all his heart and energy of a man half his age, as many who knew and worked with him would attest.Retirement was not for him. He soon found this young city could use his help in many ways. He learned as much as he could about the native trees, grasses, flowers and wildlife and began a dedication to making Cape Coral "green," thus earning the city the title Tree City USA.Mr. Stonis was awarded for his work with the Lawrence Enersen Award, given to him by the National Arbor Day Foundation, in May 1999.He felt his other love, the parks, determined the culture and character of a city. He was so proud and honored when a park was named for him in December 2007.In 2006, at the age 98, he published a book, "Slices of American Pie." This was one of his greatest achievements.He was preceded in death by his first wife, Genevieve Reardon; son, Joseph Jr.; parents, Matis and Ana; sisters, Mary and Anne; and brother, John.A celebration of life will be held Saturday, July 18, at 10 a.m., at Joe Stonis Park on Ceitus Parkway. The family requests that memorials be made to Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908, or to the Arbor Day Foundation, 211 No. 12th Street, Lincoln, NE 68508.

Fort Myers News-Press, 13 Nov 1999 -- Birma Montine Storter, age 83, of Ortona, FL. died on November 11, 1999 at Lehigh Acres, FL. She was born October 14, 1916 at Sale City, Ga. to Edward Joseph Wamble and Susie Mae Whitley Wamble. Montine had resided in Ortona the past fifty-four years and was a member of the Ortona Community Association. she also attended Eastside Baptist Church in LaBelle. Survivors include her husband: Vance L. Storter of Ortona; daughters, Birma Sue Bowers of Pensacola and Donna Storter Long (J.C.) of Ortona; grandchildren: Jenness Heflin Allen (Doug) of Ortona, David S. Heflin (Tina) of Ortona, Lonnie V. Howard (Vanita) of LaBelle, Thomas G. Howard of Gainesville and Sara Nelson Madrid of Albany, Ga.; great-grandchildren: Katie Allen, Scott Heflin, Douglas Allen, Kaitlyn Heflin, Jacob Heflin, and Patrick Heflin; sisters: Sally Wamble Roark of Naples, FL and Dorothy Wamble Davis of Naples, FL. Funeral services will be held Sunday, November 14, 1999, 2:00 o'clock p.m at the Eastside Baptist Church with Rev. C.W. Hamil, Jr. Akin-Davis Funeral Home, LaBelle, FL .

Fort Myers News-Press, 28 Jul 2006 -- Herbert Morrison Storter born to Robert Bembury and Nancy Elizabeth Storter in Fort Myers, FL on July 27, 1909, predeceased by his wife of 77 years, Dolly, on July 12, 2006. He is survived by two daughters, Marian McRae (George) and Voncile Tomlinson, (Charles, deceased); 6 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was the last of the Pioneer Storter family. He was known by most as "Hub". Hub was a career fisherman. He was a very ambitious and adventurous person; developing the first cement block company in Naples and owner of the first licensed taxi company there. He was a Captain in the United States Coast Guard in World War II with a large fleet of ships stationed at Everglades City, FL. Capt. Hub ventured into many other fields during his career, and he took it to a higher level. He has owned 22 shrimp boats which patrolled the Atlantic off North Carolina, and both sides of the Gulf of Mexico, Tampico, Bay of Campeche, and Dry Tortugas. He was well known in all the shrimp ports along the Gulf from Texas to Florida. Hub and Dolly were among the Charter Members of the Church of God in Naples. His church was the second most important aspect of his life; his family came first. He will be greatly missed. There will be a visitation held at Naples Memorial Funeral Home, 525 111th Ave. N., Naples, Florida, on Friday (TODAY) July 28, 2006 from 11 AM to 12 PM. A funeral service will be conducted at 12 PM following the visitation period. Burial will at Naples Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Nov. 23, 1933--Mrs. Elizabeth Story, 63 years of age, died at her home, 2603 Rose avenue, after a heart attack at 3 o'clock yesterday afternoon. Mrs. Story, who had been ill for the last three years, is survived by her husband, W. A. Story of Fort Myers. The couple came here 11 years ago from Ohio. The body was removed to the Lawrence A. Powell funeral home. Announcement of the funeral arrangements will be made later.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - November 14, 1949 Daniel Chester Stovall, a resident of Fort Myers for the past 30 years, died yesterday after a long illness. He was 54. He was a member of the local American Legion post and a veteran of World War I. Stovall had been a lineman for the Inter County Telephone and Telegraph Company for 25 years. He was severely burned when a gasoline truck exploded here several years ago. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Dollie Stovall of 1924 Lee Street; two sisters, Mrs. Sam Haynes of East Point, Ga., and Mrs Ella Hambrick of Carrollton, Ga., and a brother, Horace Stovall of Cordova, Ala. The funeral will be at 2 p.m. today at the McQueen and Young Chapel on First Street with Rev. Richard Stephenson officiating. Active pallbearers will be Howard Fisher, L. H. McKown, Troy Springer, Eli Woodruff, C. D. Berry and Paul Ley. Interment will be in the Fort Myers Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press, Jan 13 2006 -- Abigail (Abi) Tandy Maye Stout, age 5 and 3/4, of Bellingham, WA passed away in the presence of her parents and a grandma on January 7, 2006. She died due to massive head trauma sustained from a falling limb while hiking with her parents on North Lake Whatcom Trail. Abi was their sweet baby girl who brightened every part of their lives. She was always smiling, singing or dancing and filling their house with joyous sounds. She loved to play and create music with her parents; she also loved all things Harry Potter, the Little Mermaid, books and reading and creating beautiful works of art. She loved her two cats, especially her kitten Precious P. She loved her school and teachers at Gardenview Montessori and was known to greet every visitor so that they felt welcomed. Abi is survived by her parents, Karen and Jerald (JB) Stout of Bellingham, WA; grandparents, Veryl and Arlene Rohrbauck and Aunt Susan of Bellingham, WA; grandmother, Juanita Stout of N. Cape Coral, FL; grandparents, Roland and JoDonna Stout of Punta Gorda, FL. She is also survived by a large extended family of aunts, uncles and cousins in Florida, Alaska, Colorado, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Ohio and Oregon. She is also survived by many, many friends considered family throughout the United States. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, January 13, 2006 at Garden Street United Methodist Church, 1326 Garden St, Bellingham, WA at 2:00 PM with Pastor Bill Green officiating. A reception will follow at the church. Her parents extend a special invitation to the service to all the unnamed people who helped on the trail after the accident. Karen and JB appreciate their kindness and would like to thank them for their efforts to help save their daughter. Balloons may be brought in lieu of flowers. Family friends have established two Memorial Funds in Abigail's name. Donations may be made for the Abigail Stout Memorial Scholarship Fund via the Department of Communication through Western Washington University's Alumni Foundation or to any Whatcom Educational Credit Union branch in Abigail's name. Her parents will determine the purpose of the fund at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Jerns Funeral Chapel and On-Site Crematorium, Sunset and James. ments are in the care of Jerns Funeral Chapel and On-Site Crematorium, Sunset and James. }

Fort Myers-News Press, Dec 31 2004-- Elizabeth Carr Straight, age 68, of Ft. Myers, died Monday, December 27, 2004 at Martin Memorial Medical Center in Stuart, FL. She was born in Lebanon, MO and was a resident of Stuart, FL for 2 months, coming from Ft. Myers. She was the daughter of the late Arthur Carr and the late Agnes Carr. She is survived by her one daughter Marian Hansborough of Stuart, FL; three sons Richard Straight of Ft. Myers, Charles Straight of Ft. Myers and Ronald Straight of Ft. Myers and one brother Arthur Carr and 4 grandchildren. Memorials can be made to Hope Hospice of Martin & St. Lucie Inc., 1201 S. E. Indian St., Stuart, FL 34994. Arrangements are being handled by All County Home & Crematory, 1010 NW Highway, Stuart, FL.

Fort Myers News-Jul 6, 2006 Jarrod G. Strand, 21, of Fort Myers, died July 3, 2006. A graduate of Fort Myers High School International Baccalaureate program, Jarrod was a student at Florida Gulf Coast University. Jarrod is survived by his parents, Dennis and Starr Strand of Fort Myers, paternal grandmother, Winnie Strand, Aunt and Uncle, Linda and Leo Cross, cousins Leo Cross, Jr., and Larry Cross all of Madison, Wisconsin. Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 8, 2006 from the chapel of Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home, 12777 State rd 82. The family will receive friends Friday from 6-8 PM at the funeral home. Lee Memorial Park 334-4880.

Fort Myers News-Press 15 Aug 2002 Robert Doyle 'Bob' Strasbaugh, 74, went to be with his Heavenly Father on August 11, 2002 at Lee Memorial Hospital. He was born on December 9, 1927 to Floyd and Lura Strasbaugh in North Fort Myers, FL where he lived the majority of his life. He graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1945. He served in the Army in the Korean War. He graduated from the University of Florida in 1958 with a Bachelor of Building Construction and entered the construction business in Fort Myers. He was certified as a General Contractor in 1976 and started his own business which he operated until his retirement. He was active in the North Shore Church of the Christian & Missionary Alliance in North Fort Myers where he was a founding member. He was also an active member of the Rotary Club of North Fort Myers since 1978, the Caloosa Rare Fruit Exchange, and The Woodturner's Club. He enjoyed many hobbies including beekeeping, woodturning, gardening, and introducing his friends to new and exotic fruits. After his retirement, he went on several short mission trips to Ecuador, Guatamala, and Guinea. He is survived by his loving wife, Lois Thurmond Strasbaugh, whom he married on August 14, 1953 in Fort Myers, FL. They have three daughters: Diane (Art) Jordan of Blairsville, GA; Debra (Kent) Blackwell, Missionary to Guinea, West Africa. on furlough in Toccoa, GA; and Dena Strasbaugh of North Fort Myers, and four grandchildren, Melodee Blackwell, Summer Blackwell, Shawn Blackwell, and Scott Blackwell, all of Guinea and Toccoa, GA. Two brothers also survive him, Boyd Strasbaugh of Fort Myers Beach, and Jack (Peggie) Strasbaugh of Fort Myers; as well as several nieces and nephews. One brother, Wilson Strasbaugh, predeceased him. There will be a service celebrating the life and homegoing of Bob on August 17, 2002 at 11 a.m. at North Shore Church. Visitation will be at 10 a.m. at the same location. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions nay be made to the North Shore Church - Bob Strasbaugh Memorial Fund. Arrangements are being handled by North Fort Myers Memorial Funeral Home.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Jan. 15, 1955 - Edward N. Strattman died late last night at his home at 1142 Franklin St. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Lena C. Strattman. Funeral services will be announced by Young-Harvey Funeral directors.

Fort Myers News-Press April 19, 2009 Michael M. Strayhorn, 67, of Fort Myers, passed away April 15, 2009. Mike was born and raised in Fort Myers and graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1959. He also attended Marion Military Institute in Alabama before attending Florida State University. He was a life-long supporter of his Seminoles. He became a brother of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity and participated on the Florida State Wrestling Team. As a wrestler he was the State of Florida champion and participated in the A.A.U. Olympic Trials where he championed at the State level.After Mike graduated from FSU in 1966, he went on to become an Eastern Airlines Pilot and retired as Captain in 1987. While flying for Eastern, Mike was actively involved and successful in the commercial real estate business in the Miami area. After his retirement, he returned to Ft. Myers and opened Strayhorn Realty Corporation, where he was again successful in the commercial real estate and real estate investment business. Mike was a veteran and a member of the Masonic Lodge.Mike is known as a kind and generous man who enjoyed scuba diving and competing in (and winning) many triathlons and scuba diving. He supported many charities, especially those associated with his Christian faith, children and the poor. Most of all, Mike cherished his friends and family. To know Mike was to love him, and so many will miss him terribly. Mike is survived by his mother, Lorraine Strayhorn Miller of Fort Myers, and his sons, Joseph Matt Montgomery (Karen) and grandchildren April and Mark, of Katy, Texas and Edward Mark Montgomery (Vivian) of Lake Mary, Florida, and his many aunts and cousins. Mike's father, Orville T. Strayhorn Sr. and his brother Orville T. Strayhorn, Jr. pre-deceased him.A memorial service will be held Monday, April 20 at First United Methodist Church, 2466 First St., Fort Myers. Visitation is at 12:00 and services begin at 1:00 with a reception following. Private graveside services will follow. The family requests memorial donations be made to either Florida United Methodist Children's Home (www.funch.org) or First United Methodist Church. Fort Myers. Arrangements are by Anderson Funeral Home, 3864 Palm Beach Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33916

Fort Myers News-Press Nov 9, 1982 Norwood Redwine Strayhorn, 70 of Fort Myers died Monday. A native of Labelle, FL, he has been a lifelong resident of Fort Myers. He is a member of the Masonic Lodge #56 F. & A.M. and the Scottish Rite.He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Marietta F. Strayhorn of Fort Myers;two sons, Guy R. Strayhorn and E. Bruce Strayhorn, both of Fort Myers; one daughter, Marilee Lindner of Wheaton, IL; one nephew, Michael M. Strayhorn of Atlanta, GA and four grandchildren, Deborah Lindner Stoep, David Lindner, April Strayhorn and Steven R Strayhorn.Funeral services will be conducted Thursday morning a 11am from the First Methodist Church with Rev. Donald F. Padgett and Rev. William B. Petherick officiating.Active pallbearers will be M. T. Randell, Travis Gresham, Albert Miller, Edward Hansen, William Mellor and Lloyd G. Hendry.Honorary pallbearers will be the Lee County Bar Association Flanders Thompson, Harry Tritel, Walter O. Sheppard, Arthur Kelley, Joseph Kelley, Allen Ellis, Clyde DeLacey and Wilson Ward. The family requests in lieu of flowers donations be made to the American Heart Association or to their favorite charity.The family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 7-9pm in the Chapel of the Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd.FMHS 1929

Fort Myers News-Press, 29 Sep 2006 -- Marietta Flood Strayhorn age 89 of Fort Myers passed away September 27, 2006. She was the daughter of Irish immigrant, Joseph George Flood, and his wife, Amanda Ezell Wilson of Fort Meade, who was a descendent of a very old Polk County family whose predecessors served in Florida's Calvary, Confederate States of America, in the regiment of Captain Francis Ashbury Hendry in the War of Northern Aggression. Joseph George Flood immigrated from Enniscorthy, County Wexford, Ireland on February 22, 1886, arriving in Fort Meade, Florida in March of that year as a passenger on the first train into Fort Meade. Divorced and later widowed at a very young age, she began her professional career while still in her early twenties when she became secretary for Florida State Representative Guy M. Strayhorn. During World War II, she served as secretary to the Lee County Draft Board. In 1947, she returned to work for the Florida Legislature as secretary to the House Judiciary Committee Chairman, Norwood R. Strayhorn, who also served as chairman of the House UnAmerican Activities Committee. As secretary for the Committee, she was responsible for scheduling the Committee's work and the numerous witnesses for the House UnAmerican Activities Committee. She married Norwood R. Strayhorn in 1951. For the next forty years, she served the Southwest Florida community in a variety of capacities including member of the City of Palms Chapter of Save the Palms; Poinciana Garden Club; Fort Myers Women's Community Club; American Lung Association; American Heart Association; March of Dimes; Lee County Democratic Women's Club (serving that organization as president on several occasions); Fort Myers Democratic Woman's Club; City of Fort Myers Signage Committee; member of First Baptist Church; and member of First United Methodist Church. She was Southwest Florida coordinator for the gubernatorial campaigns of Farris Bryant and Hayden Burns. She was predeceased by her husband Norwood R. Strayhorn; sister, Juanita Bradford and brothers, Joseph Seidel Flood and Henry Quinten Flood. She is survived by son, Edwin Bruce Strayhorn; granddaughter, Megan Whitney Strayhorn; son, Guy Russell Strayhorn (Donna); grandson, Steven Russell Strayhorn; granddaughter, April Pringle (Richard); daughter, Marilee Strayhorn Lindner (Tom); and grandchildren, Debbie Stoep (Paul); grandson, David Lindner (Susie); sister, Helen Eleanor Knight, brother, Edward Charles Flood; and numerous Great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Marietta passed on to a better world in the arms of her son, Bruce. She leaves behind a loving family, a multitude of friends, and a world of people better off for her having been in their world. A product of Irish immigrants and long-time Florida settlers, her life reflected an intense dedication to God, her family, Southwest Florida, and the downtrodden of the community. As Shakespeare wrote: "Thou art thy mother's glass, and she in thee calls back the lovely April of her prime." Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sunday, October 1st at Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Boulevard, with a memorial service at 5:00 PM officiated by Father Stephen McNamara. Private internment at Fort Myers Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, please hug and kiss your parents. If they are not around, send up a prayer in honor of your parents.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, May 1, 1961 Mrs. Stella A. Strayhorn, 74, a resident of Fort Myers for the past 46 years, died Sunday morning. Surviving is her husband, Guy M. Strayhorn; two sons, Norwood R. and Orville T. Strayhorn, all of Fort Myers; two brothers, . H. Redwine of Sandy Hook, Ky. and J. T. Redwine of Louisvile, Ky.; granddaughter, Mary Lee Linder, grandsons, Guy R. Strayhorn, Bruce Strayhorn, Michael Strayhorn; great-grandsons Matt Strayhorn and Mark Strayhorn; great-granddaughter, Deborah Sue Linder. Mrs. Strayhorn was a member of the Christian Missionary Alliance Church of Fort Myers. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 4 p.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Rev. J. W. Swanson officiating, assisted by Rev. S. G. Ferrell. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.

The News-Press, 12/12/2008--Streeter, Ralph--SUNRISE OCT. 5, 1912 - SUNSET DEC. 4, 2008 Ralph was born on October 5, 1912 to Sam Streeter and Willie Morris in Eufaula, Alabama. He served in World War II in 1943. The viewing will be at Barrett Funeral Home, Friday, December 12, at 5:30 - 7:30 PM and the funeral will be held at the Chapel of Barrett Funeral Home, Saturday, Dec. 13th at 12 PM followed by burial at Lee Memorial Park, Lehigh Acres, FL.

Caloosa Belle-July 3, 2008- Staff Sergeant Christopher Strickland, age 25, of LaBelle died in Afghanistan while supporting Operation Freedom.Christopher was born July 7, 1982, in Jacksonville, the son of Michael and Beth Church. He moved to LaBelle with his family in June of 1990. He graduated from LaBelle High School in 2000. He did his basic training at Parris Island, South Carolina, and was based with the 1st Marine Logistics Group, Marine Expeditionary Force out of Camp Pendleton, California. He was a member of the Moose Lodge 2398 of LaBelle. He married Carrie Richter on March 27, 2004. She survives. He loved to travel in his spare time. Also surviving include his mother; Beth Church of LaBelle, son; Michael Paul Strickland, sisters; Brianna Gibson and Kelly Songwinds. Memorial service will be held Saturday, July 6, 2008, in First Baptist Church at 1 p.m. with Pastor Frank Deerey, Jr. celebrating. Burial with Military Rites will be in Arlington National Cemetery on July 11, 2008.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, January 9, 1966-- Mrs. Cleo M. Strickland, 66, of 2328 Unity St., died Friday night. She is survived by her husband, DeWitt Strickland; sisters, Mrs. W. E. Lavoie, Mrs. R. C. Williams, Fort Myers, Mrs. Pat Patterson, Miami; parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Outlaw, Fort Myers. Funeral service will be Monday at 2 p.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Rev. E. S. Anderson officiating. Pallbearers will be Ernest Lavoie, Gary Lavoie, Ernest Roberge, E. E. Edenfield, Dawson McDaniel and Bard H. Williams. Interment will be in Memorial Gardens Cemetery

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Dec. 19, 1963--The Rev. Daniel W. Strickland, retired Congregational minister who was pastor of the Community Congregational Church in Edison Park from 1950 to 1957, died yesterday in Lee Memorial Hospital where he had been a patient since Saturday. He was 72. Rev. and Mrs. Strickland had returned to Fort Myers for the winter just last week from their summer home in Vermont. They were living with their daughter, Mrs. Wilmer White and Mr. White at 1028 Polk St. Rev. Strickland, a native of Haverstreaw, Vt., had a distinguished record in World War I in which he served as a captain and was a prisoner of the Germans for six months after being wounded. He was decorated with the Croix de Guerre by Gen John J. Pershing personally and also received two citations of the Distinguished Service Cross and the Purple Heart. He also had served on the Mexican border in 1916. After the war he wrote 'Connecticut Fights' the story of the 102nd Regiment. At the time of his death he was national chaplain of the Yankee Division Veterans Association. He also had been chaplain of the Rabe O. Wilkison American Legion post here and a member of the Legion post in Waitsfield, Ft. He was a graduate of the Yale Divinity School and received an honorary doctor of divinity degree from Northland College at Ashland, Vt. He served as a Connecticut state senator in 1927-28 and was pastor of churches in Connecticut and Vermont before coming to Fort Myers from Moretown, Vt., in 1950. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Olive M. Strickland; three daughters, Mrs. White, Mrs. Robert Fulton of Schenectady, N. Y., and Mrs. Barry Binz of Sarasota; three brothers, Silas Strickland of Detroit, Thomas Strickland of Moline, Ill., and Royce Strickland of New Haven, Conn.; three sisters, Mrs. Emil Strauss of Springfield, Mass., Mrs. Omar Shelton of New Haven and Mrs. William Hertz of Stratford, Conn.; 14 grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Funeral arrangments will be announced by the Harvey Funeral Home.

Caloosa Belle--April 8, 2009 LABELLE -John Wesley Strickland, of LaBelle, passed away April 5, 2009, in LaBelle. He was 66. He was born Aug. 18, 1942, in Tampa, to the late Colen Wesley Strickland and Bernice (Parker) Strickland. Survivors include his daughters, Jackie Strickland, Shawn Johnson (Skeeter), Brenda Leitner (Lacey); siblings, James Strickland, Becky Strickland, Mildred Strickland, Bud Strickland, Julian Strickland, Tom Strickland, Helen Strickland; mother, Bernice Strickland; grandchildren, Cody Johnson, Justin Landrum, Miranda Landrum; great-grandchildren, Cole and Anden. He was preceded in death by his wife, Julia R. Strickland; granddaughter, Kayla Johnson; siblings, Gary Strickland, Red Strickland, and Pauline Strickland. A graveside funeral service was held Tuesday, April 7, 2009, in Fort Denaud Cemetery where Pastor L.W. Howard officiated. Interment followed in Fort Denaud Cemetery, LaBelle. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home, LaBelle.

Caloosa Belle, Dec 2, 2004 - Julia F. Rimes Strickland, age 58, of LaBelle, passed away November 26,2004 in LaBelle. She was born February 5, 1940 in Clewiston, Florida to Delmar H. Rimes and Gladys Faye Williams Rimes. She was a lifelong resident of the area.Survivors include her husband: John, daughters: Jackie Strickland of LaBelle, Shawn Johnson of LaBelle and Brenda Leitner of Sebring, father: Delmar H. Rimesof LaBelle, sisters: Hilda Malin or LaBelle, Bonnie Starr of Georgia, Lisa Rimes of LaBelle and Frankie Rimes of LaBelle, grandchildren: Cody Johnson, Justin Landrum, Miranda Landrum and Kayla Johnson.A graveside funeral service was held Monday, November 29, 2004. 3 p.m. at the Ortona Cemetery with Pastor L.W. Howard officiating.Arrangements by: AKIN-DAVIS FUNERAL HOME-LaBelle.

Fort Myers News-Press Mark A. Strickland, 18-months old son of Mr.and Mrs. Jack Strickland Jr. of 4946 Gary Drive, died Wednesday morning. Survivors in addition to parents are one brother, Richard Todd Strickland; a sister, Kelly Ann Strickland, grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Horace B. Lowery and Mr. and Mrs. Jack Strickland, Sr. of Ft. Myers. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Sat., Sept. 1, 1956 Naples, Aug. 31--Norwood (Donnie) Strickland Jr., 38-year-old member of the local police force, died suddenly this afternoon of natural causes in North Naples. He had been a policeman for three years after coming here from Bonita Springs. The native of Bainbridge, Ga., attended Fort Myers High School and was a star halfback on football teams there in the late 1930's. He had played some softball in Naples and was considered an excellent player. Strickland was a veteran of World War II. He was a member of the local lodge of the Loyal Order of Moose and the Florida Peace Officers Assn. Surviving are his wife, Ruby, daughter, Mary Katherine and son, Donnie, all of Naples; mother, Mrs. Barbara Strickland of Bonita Springs; two brothers, Vance of Bonita Springs and Roscoe of Ft. Myers; three sisters, Mrs. N. K. Andrews of Tallahassee, Mrs. Henry J. Kinard of Greenwood, S. C., and Mrs. Frank Liles of Bonita Springs. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by the Richard A. Pittman Funeral Home of Naples. Sunday, Sept 2, 1956 Funeral services for Donnie Strickland Jr., Naples, policeman who died Friday of a heart attack, will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at Pittman Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. B. C. Collins, pastor of Bonita Springs Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will follow in Crestlawn memorial Gardens Cemetery in Naples with Pittmans in Charge. Active pallbearers will be Herbert Henning, George Galloway, W. L. McSwain, Nick Kelly, Bob Alexander and Pershing Hogue. The Naples police force will be honorary pallbearers. Note: Crestlawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery was renamed Naples Memorial Gardens Cemetery. FMHS 1940

Fort Myers News-Press, Jul 29 2001 Willie Mae Strickland was born on November 10, 1912 in what is now the community of Felda of pioneer parents, Will and Matilda Curry. She attended schools in Lee County and lived her entire life in Lee and Collier Counties. She passed away peacefully on July 25, 2001 at her home in Naples. Mae was a member of the Miracle Harbor Tabernacle Church, Dwight Bevins pastor. She leaves one sister, Gloria Fleischer of Prescott Valley, Arizona; and one daughter, Helen Daniels of Naples. Grandchildren include Rebecca Daniels, Capt. Joey Daniels, Danny (Amy) Daniels, Teresa Thorpe and David McCormick. Two great-grandchildren, Stevie Thorpe and Dalton Daniels and one son-in-law, Harvey D. McCormick. Mae was preceded in death by her husband, Cornelius Strickland and a daughter, Sandra G. McCormick. Mae was a proud retiree of United Telephone Company, now Sprint, and gave 31 years of devoted service before retirement. Anderson Funeral Home in Ft. Myers. Services will be conducted by Rev. Dwight Bevins. Burial will follow at Ft. Myers Cemetery.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, Jan. 25, 1931--William J. Striebel, familiarly known as "Uncle Billy", who has been gardener and caretaker at the Royal Palm hotel for the past 14 years, died at 6:40 pm last night in the Lee Memorial hospital at the age of 72. Mr. Striebel had been seriously ill of grippe and pneumonia for the last two weeks and his death was not unexpected. He was born in Kalamazoo, Mich., but did not come to Florida until late in life...A simple funeral service will be performed at 4 this afternoon at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel. Dr. William Graham Kennedy of the First Presbyterian church will have charge of the ceremony. The body will be held in the Powell mortuary awaiting burial instructions from his relatives. Mr. Striebel is survived by a sister and eight children, all living in Michigan.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-12-20-- Mrs. Sharon Norman Stroud, age 44 of Dacula passed away Saturday December 18, 2004. Mrs. Stroud is survived by her loving husband Richard Stroud, Dacula, daughters, Brooke and Victoria Stroud, Dacula, parents, "Bud" and Norma Jean Norman, Sylva, NC and brothers Joseph Norman, Okeechobee, FL and Eddie Norman of Cocoa, FL. In lieu of flowers the family wishes for donations to be made to The American Liver Foundation, 75 Maiden Lane Suite 603, New York, NY 10038 or The American Diabetes Association, PO Box 1131, Fairfax, VA 22038-1131. Memorial services for Mrs. Stroud will be held Tuesday December 21, 2004 at 2:00 PM in the chapel of R.T. Patterson Funeral Home, 5275 N. Buford Highway, Norcross, GA 30071. (770) 448-2441.

Fort Myers News-Press , 12 Nov 2006 -- Claude L. Stroup, 85, of N. Fort Myers died Thursday, Nov. 9, 2006 under the care of Hope Hospice. A native of Fort Myers, he was the grandson of Larkin Moses Stroup, one of Fort Myers early settlers. He was involved in Freight Transportation for 64 years, retiring from Beachcomber International in April of 2005. Claude was the Past Treasurer of the Fort Myers Power Squadron. He was a veteran of WWII who served as a Master Sergeant in the U.S. Army, he was also a member of the N. Fort Myers First Baptist Church. Mr. Stroup was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Delores S. Stroup. He is survived by a daughter, Naida (Jim) Stebbins of N. Fort Myers; a son, C. Lee (Virginia) Stroup of Fort Myers; 3 granddaughters, Lisa (Frank) Burns of N. Fort Myers, Debbie (Lee) Atherton of Windermere, FL and Paula (Randy) Morton of Palmetto, FL; 4 great-grandchildren, Justin King, Jason King, Kyle Atherton and Cyndi Morton, and many beloved nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held Tuesday, November 14, 2006 from 6-8 PM in the chapel of Coral Ridge Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 15, 2006 in the N. Fort Myers First Baptist Church in N. Fort Myers. Interment will be held in Fort Myers Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Sep 12 2003 - Delores Sadler Stroup, 82, of N. Ft. Myers died Thursday, Sept. 11, 2003 under the care of Hope Hospice. A native of Ft. Myers, she was very proud to be a member of the John Powell Family, pioneers to N. Ft. Myers. Mrs. Stroup was a member of N. Ft. Myers First Baptist Church and was the church W.M.U. director for many years. She was also a past commander of the C-Bells (Ft. Myers Power Squardon Auxiliary). Mrs. Stroup is survived by her husband of sixty-two years Claude L. Stroup, a daughter Na Delores Cornelia Sadler, daughter of Samuel Jackson Sadler and Stella Lenore Powell, married Claude Lee Stroup, 14 May 1941 in Lee Co., FL. Claude Lee Stroup was son of Claude Lee Stroup, Sr. and Ethel Scholten, grandson of Larkin Moses Stroup and Claudia Baxter. Samuel Jackson Sadler was son of Andrew Jackson Sadler and Cornelia Fanita Whidden (daughter of Elias Whidden and Lorinda Corbitt). Stella Lenoer powell was daughter of John Homer Powell and Florrie Lee Jackson Loy.  John Homer Powell was son of John M. Powell (1829-1901) and Penelope Q. Bellamy.  John M. and Penelope Powell are both buried in New Prospect Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Feb. 3, 1938--Amos Strout, 72-year-old boarding stable proprietor from Middleton, Mass., who friends said won enough money two years ago on an Irish sweepstakes ticket to permit him to winter in Florida, died yesterday at Lee Memorial hospital after an illness of three weeks. Mr. Strout had been at Naples until three weeks ago with his sister, Mrs. Jennie London. Besides Mrs. London he is survived by two other sisters, Mrs. Grace Walkup of Salem, Mass., and Mrs. Alfred Taylor of Mechanic Falls, Me. The body will be shipped today by the Spooner & Engelhardt funeral home to Mechanic Falls for services and interment.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, June 17, 1936--Mrs. Maude Middleton Stubbs, 74 years old, died yesterday morning at the home of her son, State Attorney Roy D. Stubbs, at 1115 Florida avenue. She had made her home in Fort Myers with Mr. and Mrs. Stubbs for the past 10 years coming here from Georgia. Her husband, the late Robert Davis Stubbs, died here in 1933. Funeral services will be held at 5 o'clock this afternoon at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel with the Rev. Carlock Hawk officiating. The active pallbearers are Walter Walters, Judge David Elmer Ward, J. H. Ragsdale, V. G. Howard, T. G. Dennis and Judge George W. Whitehurst; honorary pallbearers E. Dixie Beggs, J. A. Franklin, William J. Wood, Ed Ley, A. N. Odom, Harrell Kuester, W. L. Draughon and Pete Wells.

Fort Myers News-Press, August 15, 2007--Ellen Stucky, born in Fort Myers in 1921, died Friday in her Dean Park home where she had resided for 82 years. Ellen was the only child of Nell Evans and Harry C. Stucky, who co-founded Robb & Stucky Furniture in Fort Myers in 1915 and also the niece of Alta Lewis Evans who owned and operated Evans and Park Ladies Apparel in downtown Fort Myers. She graduated Fort Myers High School in 1939 and attended Salem College in Winston-Salem, NC, graduating in 1943. Ellen retired from the Lee County School District in 1978 after teaching 7th grade geography for 35 years at Fort Myers Middle School and Dunbar Middle School. She is fondly remembered by many former students and friends for her wit and eccentricities.Ellen's survivors include cousins John Evans, Fort Myers; Ted and Kim Evans, Arcadia; Jeff and Rhonda Evans, Cashiers, NC; Jerry and Pam Evans, Sopchoppy, FL; Harry and Cathy Evans, Dallas, TX; Elizabe th Alderman, Ft. Myers, and lifelong friends; Joan Jackson, Pam Houck, and Sara Jackson.Ellen loved her dogs, the North Carolina Mountains, and The Young and The Restless. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.A memorial service will be held at Saint Luke's Episcopal Church, 2635 Cleveland Ave., 11 AM Saturday August 18, 2007. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908 will be greatly appreciated. Funeral arrangements by Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home & Crematory.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Aug 5, 2005 Funeral services for Charlie Sturgis, 53, will be conducted on Saturday at 11:00 AM, at St. John First Baptist Church with Pastor R.L. Anderson officiating. Interment will follow in Fort Myers Cemetery. Friends may call from 6 until 8 this evening at the Church. Arrangements entrusted to Carlos Jones Funeral Home, Sarasota, FL. FMHS 1970

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, January 12, 1966-- Charles G. Styles, 73, of 3704 Lora St., died early Tuesday morning. Survivors include two sisters, Mrs. Minnie Rogers of Fort Myers and Mrs. Lorena Keen and a brother Edell Styles of Alva. The funeral service will be Thursday at 2 p.m. at Alva Cemetery with Rev. James Daniels officiating. Pallbearers will be Harvey Mottaz, Ivan McCannon, Coleman Minor, Kansas Lamb, Claud Lippincott and Kenneth Daniels. Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Fort Myers News-Press-18 Jul 2008- Franklin D. "Buddy" Suggs, age 71, of Palmdale, FL, passed away July 16, 2008 at his home in Palmdale after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born Oct. 29, 1936 in Bradenton, son of the late Pinkey D. and the late Geneva (Davis) Suggs. He has worked for Bronson's Ranch, Kelley and Bowden Construction and most recently Rinker. Buddy enjoyed hunting, fishing, going to church and being with family and friends. He was a member of Venus Baptist Church and River Ranch Property Assoc. He was a former resident of Okeechobee. Survivors include his wife of fifty-two years: Joanne(Arnold) Suggs, two sons: Del (Cindy) Suggs, Bill (Beth) Suggs, both of Okeechobee, three daughters: Margie (Wesley) Poncier of Palmdale, Lisa (Mike) Lilley, Kandi (Anthony) Pascher, both of LaBelle, three sisters: Daisy Fallowfield, Shirley Miller, both of Bradenton, Maxine (Bill) Wells of St. Marks, FL, eleven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Sat. July 19, 2008, 11:00 am at Venus Baptist Church, Venus with Rev. Jimmy Snell and Rev. Earl Cline officiating. Interment will follow in Ortona Cemetery, Moore Haven. Visitation will be Friday from 6-8 p.m. at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle.Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Ft Myers News-Press, January 14, 2001 - Donald R. Sullivan, 71, of Ft. Myers, passed away quietly on January 11, 2001. He was a 50 year resident of Ft. Myers. He retired as a carpenter and from his A/C repair service. He was a caring father and friend to all. Surviving are his eldest children, Don Sullivan, Jr., Deborah "Missy" Campbell, Patricia "Patty" Bloomfield; and his younger sons, Danny, David and Stephen Davis. Also six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Graveside services will be held Friday, January 19, 2001 at 2:30 p.m. at Lee Memorial Park Cemetery, 12777 St., RD 82, Ft. Myers. In lieu of flowers, tributes may be sent to Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Ft. Myers, FL 33908 or Lee Memorial Foundation, 7th Floor, ICU Staff of Lee Memorial Hospital, P.O. Box 2218, Ft. Myers, FL 33902. Lee Memorial Park 334-4880

Fort Myers News-Press, Mar 16 2005--Henry Sullivan, 88 of Ft. Myers passed away in peace surrounded by family and loved ones on Saturday, March 12, 2005. Henry was born in Byromville, Georgia on June 25, 1916 to Love and Lula Sullivan. He moved to Ft. Myers in 1940 where he worked for many years at Fohl Hardware (Bill Smith Appliances) then later he worked at Lee Vocational School where he retired as Building Supervisor. Henry leaves many warm and joyful memories to his wife; Naomi L. Sullivan, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a host of other family and friends. Funeral Service 10:00AM Saturday March 19th at St. John First Baptist Missionary Baptist Church also where family will receive friends from 6-8 PM on Friday March 18th for a Memorial Service. Arrangements by Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, November 30, 1945 -- Orin D. Sullivan, owner of Sullivan's Store in the East End for the past 23 years, died last night at his home, 900 East First Street. He was 86 years old. Mr. Sullivan, born in Oneonta, N. Y., had been a resident of Lee county for 27 years. He was a member of the Masons and Oddfellows lodge. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Laura A. Sullivan and a daughter, Mrs. Mildred G. Redman, Hardisty, Alberta, Canada. Funeral arrangements, in charge of Spooner and Engelhardt, will be announced later.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, May 13, 1955 - Awildie Summerall, 76, a resident of LaBelle for the past 30 years, died here yesterday. She was born in Fort Myers Oct. 14, 1878. She was a member of the Church of God of LaBelle. Surviving are her husband Berry Summerall, LaBelle; sons, Edgar, Fort Myers, Raleigh, Clyde and James of LaBelle, a grandson, Clyde Jr., four daughters Mrs. Rozella Dees, Lake Placid, Mrs. Bessie Tillet, LaBelle, Mrs. Irene Howard, LaBelle and Mrs. Annabelle McDaniel, Fort Myers, 26 grandchildren and 44 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon at 3 o'clock at the Church of God at LaBelle with Rev. Ben Carter officiating. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery. Leo W. Engelhardt funeral home is in charge.

Berry Summerall

Caloosa Belle -- May 19 2005 -- Doyle W. Summerall, age 61, of Felda, passed away May 15, 2005, in Clewiston. He was born January 23, 1944, in Wauchula to Clyde Summerall Sr. and Edith Marie Thompson Summerall. Survivors include his wife: Marjorie M. Summerall of Felda; children: Kathy Lofton of Okeechobee, Gene Rogers of London, Ky., James Rogers of Venus and Judd Summerall of Clewiston; brothers: Clyde Summerall Jr. of Arkansas and Royce Summerall of Mississippi; sisters: Marlene Grillo of Okeechobee and Joyce Boatwright of Palmdale; 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.Visitation was May 18 at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the National Kidney Foundation of Florida, 1040 Woodcock Road, Suite 119, Orlando, FL 32803.

Fort Myers News-Press July 5, 2009 Edgar Summerall Jr., 71 of Lehigh Acres passed away on June 30, 2009. He is survived by his wife Dawn and son Jeff (Kathy) Summerall a daughter Tina (Denny) Morrow. Edgar leaves his grandchildren, Jessica Soto, Jered Morrow, and Sarah, Jeffery, Zachary, and Hannah Summerall. Edgar has two brothers Shorty (Pauline) and Herbert (Betty) a daughter Dorothy (Charlie) Bright. Funeral services will be held on Monday July 6th at 2:00 PM from Fort Myers Memorial Gardens, burial to follow visitation will be from 12:00 Noon until the time of service.Funeral arrangements under the direction of Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Sept. 5, 1934-- Mrs. Elizabeth Summerall, 80-year-old Ballard Road resident, died yesterday afternoon following a stroke suffered at her home on Sunday. Funeral services will be held at 10 o'clock this morning at the graveside in the Fort Myers cemetery with Rev. Joshua Hires officiating. Mrs. Summerall is survived by her husband, William M. Summerall, a daughter, Mrs. Mary Douglas, and a son, Berry Summerall of LaBelle. She had lived in Fort Myers for the past 35 years. Funeral arrangements are being made by Lawrence A. Powell

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, April 16, 1987-- Eugene William Sumerall, Sr., 72, of Longview Lane, North Fort Myers, died Tuesday. He was a native of Charlotte County and a lifelong resident of this area. He was a retired US Deputy 1st Sergeant with 34 years of service and was affectionately known as "Top" in the Florida National Guards. Memberships include: B.P.O.E. Lodge #1288 and V.F.W. Post #2444, both of Fort Myers. Mr. Sumerall is survived by his wife, Evelyn D. Sumerall; a son, Eugene William "Dusty" Sumerall, Jr. of Fort Myers; three sisters, Dorothy Lescher of N. Ft. Myers, Mildren Whitten of Fort Myers and Annie Williams of Tice. Fraternal service by B.P.O.E. Lodge #1288 will be conducted Saturday at 10 a.m. at Harvey-Engelhardt Funeral Home, Colonial Chapel, 1600 Colonal Blvd. Honorary pallbearers will be Leo Doerr, John Allen, Jobie Burkett, Charlie Doss, Harold Johnston, Ronnie Thomas, Snag Thompson, Jack Breton, Pat O'Hara, Louis Haynes, Jerry Smith and Walter Powers. Active pallbearers will be Max Mullins, Roscoe Smith, Earl Williams, Bert Williams, David Bull, Jr., Morgan House, Al Jones and Tommy West. Interment will be in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Jan. 30, 1938--Mrs. Manda L. Summerall, 65-year old widow, died yesterday at her home at 1031 Washington street, as the result of a heart ailment. He is survived by a son, Fred McDaniel and four sisters, Mrs. Goldie Williams, Mrs. Dunk Summerall of Aracadia, Mrs. Frank Smith of St. James and Mrs. Clarence Cleveland of Cleveland, Fla.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, January 31, 1982 - Mary E. Sumerall, 64, of Maple Ave., Fort Myers, died Thursday at her residence. She is survived by her husband, Eugene W. (Gene) Sumerall, Sr.; one son, Eugene W. (Dusty) Sumerall, Jr. of Fort Myers; and one brother, Walter Powers of Fort Myers. Funeral services will be held Monday at 10 a.m. at the Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Rev. J. W. Peoples officiating.. Pallbearers will be J. O. Burkett, C. L. Doss, P. T. Thomas, Max Mullins, Roscoe Smith and Robert Baker. Honorary pallbearers will be Morgan House, Ellis Keene, Harold Ford, Elvin Washburn, Jerry Spurlin, Al Jones, Tommy West, Thomas Bridges and Harold Johnson. Interment will be at Fort Myers Cemetery. Leo W. Engelhardt in charge of arrangments

Fort Myers News-Press June 18, 2009 Phillip C. Summerall born in Fort Myers entered into rest on June 8th. He loved hunting and is occupation as a commercial fisherman (Pine Island).He will be greatly missed by his son Shane (Stacy) Sumerall, daughter Nicole (Justin) Thomas, brothers Mike(Bonnie), Steve (Linda), Randy, Aunt Mildred Whitten, grandchildren Taylor, Tristin Sumerall, Tyler, Cheyanne, Alyssia Thomas and many life long friends.He was preceded in death by his mother Anne Cross and his father Richard (Shorty) Sumerall.Family will receive friends at 5:00PM on Saturday, June 20th at the family barn located at 13181 Pinto Lane, Fort Myers, FL.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Jan 28, 2003 Raymond Wesley Summerall, 67, passed away on January 24, 2003, after a long and courageous battle with cancer, at his beloved North Carolina home. There he felt at peace and in touch with God's Wonder. A lifetime resident of Fort Myers, Raymond owned and operated Raymond's Rollerland for 35 years. He was known and loved by many for his infectious smile, his kind heart, his love of people, and total devotion to his family. Raymond is survived by; his dearly loved wife Elaine Summerall; his mother, Annette Daniels of Fort Myers; his six children: Donna Archer (husband Bobby); granddaughters, Shannon and Chelsea of Fort Myers; Raymond Wesley Summerall, Jr. (wife Teri); grandsons, Raymond Wesley III and Corey Summerall, of Lehigh Acres; Kathy Algire and granddaughter, Karley Algire, of Fort Myers, Teresa Titus and grandsons, Jake D'Ambrosio and Joshua Perez, of Cape Coral, Karen Bennett (husband Joey) and grandchildren, Kameren Waln, Garrett Waln, Landon Waln and Whitney Bennett, of Fort Myers, Deborah Hinson (husband Robert) and granddaughter, Keri Clement, of Lehigh Acres. His brother Kenneth Summerall (wife Naomi) of Fort Myers; his brother, Gary Summerall (wife Susan) of Fort Myers; his sister, Katherine Keene (husband Mitchell), of Englewood. Funeral services will be 11:00 TODAY at McGregor Baptist Church, Ft. Myers. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations to Hope Hospice of Avery County, North Carolina (351 W. Mitchell Street, Newland, North Carolina 28657). FMHS 1953

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, May 10, 1952 -- LaBelle, May 9 - Tom Summerall, died today at the home of his brother here. Coming from Arcadia, he had made his home with his brother for the past five months.   He was a native of Hillsborough County. He is survived by his brother, William, a daughter-in-law, Mrs. Ellen Summerall of Nocatee and six grandchildren. Graveside services will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday at the Ft. Denaud Cemetery with Rev. C. E. Corley of the LaBelle Church of God and Rev. Alex Duncan of the Nocatee Church of God, officiating.  Futch Funeral Home of Clewiston is in charge of arrangements.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, April 28, 1967 -- Clewiston - William M. Summerall, 98, of 1448 Tenth St., Naples, died Wednesday evening in a Naples hospital. He had been an area resident for the past 20 years. He was a member of the Church of God and a native of DeSoto County.Survivors include a son, Charlie Sumerall of Naples; three daughters, Mrs. Ellen Durrance of West Palm beach, Mrs. Robert Storter of Naples, and Mrs. Lottie Dees of Ft. Myers; and 23 grandchildren. Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Ortona Church of God with Rev. Bill Thigpen of LaBelle officiating. Burial will be in Ortona Cemetery. The Pattison Funeral Home of Clewiston is in charge of arrangements.

Fort Myers News-Press June 3, 2009 George Rodney Summeralls, age 61, of LaBelle, passed away June 1, 2009, in Lehigh Acres. He was born Sept. 13, 1947, in Tampa. Rodney was a lifelong resident of the area. He loved spending time outdoors and his favorite pastime was hunting. Survivors include daughter, Jackie Sue Summeralls; mother, Nellie J. (Cruise) Summeralls; brothers, Carless (Brenda) Summeralls, D.E. (Ann) Summeralls, Jimmy (Teresa) Summeralls; sisters, Earlene (Clyde) Kilburn, Carol (Jimmy) Rivers, Paula (Howard) Whitman, April Rowe; grandson, Michael Summeralls; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Earl A. Summeralls. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, June 6, at Akin-Davis Funeral Home, LaBelle with Pastor Roger Bradley officiating. Interment will follow in Fort Denaud Cemetery. Visitation will be 10 a.m. until service time Saturday at the funeral home in LaBelle. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, July 15, 1955 - Mary Ola Kennedy Summers, 72, a resident of Fort Myers for the past 30 years, died yesterday. Surviving are her husband, R. L. Summers; a son, W. H. Kennedy, both of Fort Myers; step-daughters, Miss Linda Kennedy, Fort Myers, Mrs. Pearl Baggett, Sarasota, Mrs. Paul Dukes, Fort Myers; a brother, J. B. Beeman, Fort Myers; stepsons Lester and Tommy Summers of Ocala, Master Sgt. R. L. Summers Jr., Fort Bragg, N. C., and three grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt funeral home with Rev. Loren Williams officiating. Pallbearers will be Tom Pace, O. C. Williams, Paul Ley, Decourcy M. Pollock, Buford Curry and Robert Nault. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.

Albert B. Sumner, 85, of Fort Myers, passed away Friday, January 27, 2006. He was born August 23, 1920 in Winter Haven and has lived in Fort Myers most of his life. He was a graduate of Fort Myers High School and delivered Fort Myers News Press for over 20 years and owned several businesses on Fort Myers Beach. Mr. Sumner is survived by three children; Susan Henderson (Rass) of Fort Myers, Albert "Ben" Sumner, Jr. (Tandy) of Naples and Steven M. Sumner (Darlene) of Fort Myers; a brother, John Edward Sumner of North Carolina; a sister, Madeline Meyer of N. Fort Myers, grandchildren, Kim Brantley, Kathy Gonzales, Kelly Sanders (April) David Sumner (Lori), Eric Sumner (Julie), Ryan Sumner (Meylisa) and Andrew Sumner (Jenna); great-grandchildren; Natalie, Chris, Michael, Brendan, Amber, David, Michael, Tessia, Kamron, Laney and Morgan. He was preceded in death by his wife, Edna M. Sumner in 1999, parents; Joseph Clarence and Eula (Blount) Sumner and two brothers Clayton and Fred Sumner. Friends may visit with the family from Noon - 2 PM Sunday, February 5, 2006 at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd. Private burial will follow in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Dec. 25, 1936--J. Clarence Sumner, 46-year-old Florida Power and Light employe, died a few minutes after midnight as the result of a fractured skull and concussion suffered when he was thrown out of a car struck by another automobile at the corner of First and Fowler streets yesterday morning. Prince Paschal of Walnut Grove, Miss., driver of the car which struck the Sumner automobile, was transferred from the city jail to the county jail as soon as hospital attendants notified Police Lieut. Bill McAllister that Sumner had died. Death came as the result of a multiple fracture suffered when he was thrown through the window of his car and into the base of a royal palm in front of the Kingston residence. Witnesses told Lieut. Mcallister and State Patrolman Homer Klay that Paschal's car approached the stop street at a speed of from 50 to 60 miles per hour and failed to slow down at the corner which is marked by a stop sign. Albert Sumner, driving his father's car, was also thrown into the street but was not seriously injured. Both Mr. Sumner and his son were hurled out of the car by the impact of the collision. Neither Paschal nor his companion, Henry Warren, were injured. Mr. Sumner and Albert were rushed to the Lee Memorial Hospital and treated by Dr. H. Quillian Jones. Paschal was taken to the city jail to wait developments in Mr. sumner's condition. Late last night Dr. Jones said Mr. Sumner's condition was critical and that his chances to recover were 'slight' unless he showed a decided improvement within 12 hours. Mr. Sumner talked incoherently when first taken to the hospital but soon lapsed into a coma from which he had not aroused at midnight. He suffered a multiple fracture of the skull, a fractured cheek bone and deep bruises about both eyes. Albert Sumner suffered deep cuts about the fact but his injuries were not considered serious. Police Lieut. Bil McAllister said last night that Paschal had retained Jim C. Clements, local attorney, to represent him. Warren, although not being held, remained here and sent for friends from Miami. The Sumner car was a complete wreck while the front of the new Chevrolet driven by Paschal was telescoped. Mr. Sumner is survived by his wife, Mrs. Eula Sumner, three sons, Albert, Clayton and Frederick and a daughter Madeline. The Sumner family lives at 719 Seminole Avenue. Mr. Sumner had been a Florida Power and Light employe for 12 years and recently had been on the night platform at the ice station on Lee Street. Both cars were hauled in by the Coons wrecker service.

William Sumner

Fort Myers News-Press, Jan 26 2005-- Frank K. Sumy, 74, of Ft. Myers, FL passed away Monday, Jan. 24, 2005. He was born in Pittsfield, MA and came to Ft. Myers in 1968. He was a letter carrier for the Post Office for 35 years. He was a member of the St. Vicent DePaul Catholic Church. He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Carolyn; 2 sons, Earl (Kathy) Scott, Cape Coral, Steven (Margaret) Scott, Apopka, FL; 3 daughters, Kathy Marler, Ft. Myers, Cande (Lou) Markham & Penny (Dennis) Frenier of Pittsfield, MA; 3 brothers, Anthony (Loretta) Sumy, John Sumy, Stach Sumy, all of Pittsfield, MA; 9 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. he was preceded in death by a son Ellis Sumy. Visitation will be held at the St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church on Wed., 1/26/05 from 7:00 to 8:00 PM with a scripture service at 7:30 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the church on Tuesday, 1/27/05 at 9:00 AM. Interment will be in the Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press, March 22, 2007-Jack L. Sunman, 72 passed away on March 20, 2007. Jack was born in Springfield IL, but was a life long resident of Fort Myers. Jack was predeceased by his father Harold D. Sunman of Fort Myers, FL., two brothers Harold Sunman Jr. of Chokoloskee, FL., and William Sunman of Fort Myers, FL. He is survived by his mother Dolly P. Sunman of Fort Myers, FL. a sister Dorothy Owens of Easley SC. A brother Jerry Sunman of Watertown NY. Jack leaves three daughters Karla Bright of Cape Coral, FL, Robin Wiggin of Mannheim, Germany and Janine Rickner of Northport Fl. Jack also leaves 8 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. A funeral service will be held on Saturday March 24, 2007 at 9:30 AM at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home 1589 Colonial Blvd, burial will follow in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be Friday March 23, 2007 from 6:00PM ?8:00PM at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Fort Myers Memorial Gardens, 936-0555.

Caloosa Belle, 16 Nov 2006-- Howard Lamar "Fritz" Surrency, age 82, of Merritt Island, formerly of Clewiston and Belle Glade, died on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2006 in Rockledge.He was born July 10, 1924 in Naples, to the late William H. and the late Veda (Carlton) Surrency. He served during World War II in the Army. After working as a cowboy, he became a cattle buyer for several years. He developed a herd and for several years was an independent rancher at Clewiston.He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Veda Surrency; brothers, Kenneth, Eugene, Charles, Archie and Carlyle Survivors include one daughter, Rhonda Roth of Ft. Myers; a brother, Carlton "Buck" Surrency, Ft. Pierce; sisters, Miriam Curtis, Merritt Island and Billie Jackson Eisele, Murphy, N.C.Funeral services were held on Saturday, Nov. 11, at 2 p.m. at Akin-Davis Funeral Home, Clewiston with Rev. John Hancock officiating.Interment followed in Ortona Cemetery, Ortona.Visitation was held on Saturday, Nov. 11, from 4 hours prior to funeral at Akin-Davis Funeral Home, Clewiston.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, January 26 1954-- Funeral services for Samuel Surrency, 56, who died Friday , Jan 22, in Coral Gables, will be held at Ortona Cemetery at 2 p.m. tomorrow. Hawkins Kirk Gordon Post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars will conduct the services. A military graveside ceremony is planned. Futch Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Dec. 16, 1935--David Franklin Sushil, 15-months-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Gerald C. Sushil, died early yesterday morning at the home of his parents on Pine island road after a short illness. He is survived by a brother, Gerald Stewart, and two sisters, Laura and Margaret. Funeral services will be held at 10 o'clock this morning at the graveside in Fort Myers cemetery with the Rev. Father R. P. Brennan officiating. Lawrence A. Powell has charge of arrangements.

Fort Myers News-Press May 21,2008 Ellen F. Sushil, 82 of Fort Myers died Sunday, May 18, 2008. A long time resident of Lee County, Ellen was a member of St. Cecilia Catholic Church, bookkeeper for Bishop Verot High School, and along with her predeceased husband, Gerald, a founding member of the Bishop Verot High School Booster Club.Surviving family members are children, William (Bert Morales)Sushil of Wesley Chapel, FL, Gerald (Patricia) Sushil of Fort Myers, Michael (Mia) Sushil of Cape Coral, FL and Mary (Anthony) Byrd of Cape Coral, FL, brother, George Collins of Greenwich, CT. and sister, Mary Rothwell of Thornwood, NY, and grandchildren, Derick Simpson, Shawn Byrd, William Byrd and Sarah Byrd, David Sushil, Alexander Sushil, Matthew Sushil, Mark Sushil, and Megan Sushil, and great grandchildren, D.J. and Jada Simpson.Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, May 23, 2008 at 10:30 AM at St. Cecilia Catholic Church. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.Friends may call at the Kiser Funeral Home, 9231 Cypress Lake Drive, Thursday, from 6-8 PM.The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to Hope Hospice

Gene Sutton

Fort Myers News-Press - 2004-11-28 - Robert G. Sutter, "R.G.", 84, of Ft. Myers, passed away Saturday, November 27, 2004. He has been a resident here for the past sixteen years, moving from Cleveland, Ohio. Robert was a WWII veteran of the Army Air Corps, and a member of the Church of the Resurrection and the K.O.C. He is survived by his devoted and loving family, wife of fifteen years, Louisa L. Sutter (Tita), sons, Robert Patrick (Rosemary), James K. (Connie), Anne K. Lenahan, Margaret F. Armston (George), Jean T. Sutter and Colette M. Sutter, brother, John (Gigi), sister, Catherine Gehring, 13 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Mary C. Sutter. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Monday, November 29, 2004 at 9:00 AM in the chapel of the Church of the Resurrection. In lieu of flowers, memorials made in Robert's name to Hope Hospice and Palliative Care, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Ft. Myers, FL 33908 would be appreciated. Arrangements by the Kiser Funeral Home, 9231 Cypress Lake Dr. Kiser Funeral Home

Fort Myers News-Press, 29 Mar 2005-- Donald E. Swagler, age 76, of Ft. Myers stepped into the presence of the Lord on Easter Sunday, March 27, 2005 at Hope Hospice North after a brief illness. Born on April 15, 1928 in Wadsworth, OH a son of Glen L. and Muriel Swagler. Mr. Swagler moved in 1970 from Boardman, OH to Cape Coral where he lived for 11 years before moving to Ft. Myers 23 years ago. He served his country in the US Navy during WWII and in the US Army during WWII and the Korean Conflict. Don was the owner and operator of Swagler Realty Company in Ft. Myers from 1972-1983 then he joined Rawlings Realty Company until his retirement in 1993. He enjoyed his two favorite sports, fishing and golfing. He will be dearly missed by his loving wife of 23 years, Phyllis, his children, Linda Santillana of Ft. Myers, Mark (Cherry) of Ft. Myers and Matt of Tampa, his stepchildren, L. Shannon Bramblett of KY and Jason A. (Dawn) Bramblett of TN, his grandchildren, Nila (Scott) Downer, Andres Santillana and Andrew Bramblett, his sisters, Helen Stekle of Ft. Myers, Bette Yonkich of OH, Joann Winkler of OH, his brother, Tom of AZ and many nieces and nephews. Don was the brother of the late Robert, Richard and Larry Swagler. A funeral service will be conducted on Wednesday, March 30, 2005 at 2:30 PM in the Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd. (239) 936-0555.

Caloosa Belle -- 20 May 2005 -- John D. Sweeney, age 78, of LaBelle, passed away May 16, 2005, in LaBelle. He was born April 8, 1927, in Fort Denaud to George Lyman Sweeney and Amy Kirkland Sweeney. He was a lifelong resident of the area. John was a veteran of the US Army. He worked for Hendry County Road and Bridge Department for 27 years, and was a heavy equipment operator.Survivors include his nieces: Delores Agnew, Evelyn Blake and Elaine Blake, all of LaBelle and several great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers: A.G. Sweeney and Ira Homer Sweeney and sisters: Tyra Walker, Mary Alice Ethington, Iona Jewel Frazier and Elvene Sweeney. A graveside funeral will be Friday, May 20, 3 p.m. at the Fort Denaud Cemetery with Rev. L.W. Howard officiating. Visitation will be Thursday from 6-8 p.m. at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle.Arrangements by. Akin-Davis Funeral Home-LaBelle, Florida.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, August 16, 1962 Elmer E. Sweet, 81, a resident of Fort Myers for the past 60 years, died yesterday. Surviving are a son, T-Sgt Clyde Sweet in the Air Force i Iceland, a daughter, Mrs. Kathleen Lindenmayer, North Fort Myers; two sisters, Mrs. Edna Kellogg, Tice and Mrs. Birdie Haefeker, Gainesville; a brother, Alton Sweet, Tampa, and 8 grandchildren. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery. Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home in charge.

Fort Myers News-Press Dec 7, 2006 Allie Soloman Swett, 90, of N. Fort Myers died December 4, 2006. Allie was born in Glennville, GA, a daughter of the late Hugh M. and Allean Solomon. She moved to Fort Myers in 1945, she was a member of the Fort Myers Elks and First Presbyterian Church, Allie was an avid reader. Mrs. Swett is survived by several nieces and nephews and her sister-in-law Mary Ann Solomon of Calusa Harbor and her caregivers Roger and Debbie who helped and loved her for the past 5 years. She was preceded in death by her husband Robert L. in 1975, her parents and 10 brothers and sisters. A funeral service celebrating her life will be conducted in the Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home on Saturday at 11 AM, there will be a visitation from 10-11 AM, friends and relatives are invited to attend.Interment will be in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery.Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 936-0555.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, July 24, 1948 Mrs. Matilda Padgett Swint, 88, died at Lee Memorial Hospital yesterday. She is survived by six daughters, Mrs. John S. Hollingsworth, Griffin, GA; Mrs. W. S. Antisdale, Muskegon, Mich., Mrs. Robert Mitchell, Mrs. J. S. Tarrer, Sr., and Mrs. L. H. Frnak, all of Fort Myers, Mrs. William Austin, Jacksonville, and one brother, Frank Padgett of Fort Myers, 22 grandchildren and 20 great-grand-children. She was a member of the Eastern Star and Methodist Church. Funeral services will be conducted at 4 p.m. tomorrow at the Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home by her grandson, Rev. C. L. Milligan, assisted by the Rev. Millard Clevel and Pallbearers will be Herman Frank, Robert Mitchell, Curtis Spence, Roland Shanahan, Norman Smith, Donald Kitchens and Ralph Peters, all grandsons. The Eastern Star will have charge of the services at the cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press -- 2000-01-09 -- Nellie Swyers, 70, of Cape Coral, FL, died Saturday, January 8, 2000, in Cape Coral. She was born in Raceland, Kentucky, and had lived in Cape Coral since 1980, coming from Port Clinton, OH. She attended Abiding Love Lutheran Church in Cape Coral and was a retired school teacher. She is survived by two daughters, Patricia Swyers and Jacqueline Sue (Roger T.) Williams of Cape Coral; three brothers, Oscar Dials of Cape Coral, Eugene Dials of Spotsylvania, VA, James Dials of Toronto, OH; three sisters, Marie Swyers of Mt. Sterling, OH, Leatha Lemaster, Helen Boggs, both of North Fort Myers; and two grandchildren. Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 11, at the Coral Ridge Funeral Home. Interment will follow.