Obituaries

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Jan. 8, 1950 - Charles R. Wade, 82, a resident of Fort Myers for the past 50 years, died yesterday after a long illness. Wade came here from Morehead City, N.C., his birthplace, and was formerly in the wholesale fish business. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Mary Wade; three daughters, Mrs. Della Appleyard of Fort Myers, Mrs. George Durant of White Plains, N.Y., and Mrs. Carlton VandeVort of Bristol, Tenn., and a son, C. R. Wade of Mobile, Ala. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. tomorrow at the Leo W. Engelhardt funeral home with the Rev. Richard Stephenson officiating. Burial will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.

THE FORT MYERS PRESS, September 9, 1922-- Paralysis is Cause of Death of Henry K. Wade at Hospital Henry K. Wade, 67 years old of Bonita Springs, died lasat night at the Lee Memorial Hospital. He had been in ill health for the last three months, but his condition was not regarded as serious until two weeks ago, when he suffered an attack of paralysis and was hurried from his home to the hospital here, where he died last night. Mr. Wade was born on April 12, 1855, in the state of Georgia. he later moved to Bonita Springs, wehre he and his wife have been living for some time. Mr. Wade was one of the most progressive farmers in that district.The widow is his sole survivor. The funeral was held at 11:30 o'clock this morning from the home of Mrs. Wade in Bonita Springs. Burial took place there.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Oct. 27, 1934--J.(Joseph) T. Wade, 79-year-old Alva resident, died at midnight last night. He is survived by his wife, and children in Georgia and Mississippi. Mr. and Mrs. Wade have been in charge of the Wade Inn. Funeral services will be in charge of L. W. Engelhardt and Sons. Oct. 28, 1934--Funeral services for Joseph F. Wade, 75-year-old Alva resident who died at his home at midnight Friday, will be held at 2:30 o'clock tomorrow afternoon at the Alva Methodist church with the Rev. Carlson officiating. Mr. Wade is survived by his wife, Mrs. Lula W. Wade of Alva; a son, Hampton Wade of Atlanta, Ga. and one daughter. Active pallbearers are H. H. Tussey, John Boring, R. S. Clay, John English, Dr. P. H. Jones and Edward Tussell. Honorary pallbearers are Davis Tandy, James Fisher, Frank Parkinson, R. F. Walker, Chess Miner and Tom McCurry. Burial will be in the Alva cemetery with L. W. Engelhardt and sons in charge of arrangements.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Aug. 16, 1950 - Stanley J. Wade, 41, an employee of the C & O Railroad, died at Fort Myers Beach yesterday. He and his wife had been making their home here for the past two months. He was born in Chesterfield County, Va. Surviving are his wife, Margaret Wade of Fort Myers Beach; a son, James S. Wade; two daughters, Mrs. Mary Simmons of Matvaca, Va., and Mrs. Marcia Crews of Fort Myers. The body will be sent to Petersburg, Va., by the Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press, Mar 11 2003 -- Helen Maddox Waggaman, age 56, of LaBelle, passed away March 9, 2003 in LaBelle. She was born January 14, 1947 in Ft. Myers to William T. Maddox, Sr. and Elizabeth Goode Thompson Maddox. Helen was a lifelong resident of LaBelle. Survivors include her daughter, Katherine 'Liz' Peacock and husband Carl Edward Peacock of LaBelle, brother W.T. 'Bill' Maddox, Jr. of LaBelle, and sister Sara Maddox of LaBelle. A funeral service will be held TONIGHT, Tuesday, March 11, 2003, 8:00 p.m. at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle with Reverend Tony Alonzo officiating. Visitation will be held from 6 - 8 p.m. prior to the funeral service. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home, LaBelle, Florida.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, June 23, 1928--E. H. Wagner, 57-year-old fisherman, was found dead yesterday morning in his houseboat near Estero. Death was attributed to a heart attack by physicians who examined the body in company with Sheriff F. B. Tippins and County Judge N. G. Stout. Wagner, neighboring fishermen said, has been suffering with heart disease for some time. The body was being held at the Engelhardt funeral home last night while efforts were being made to locate a sister of the dead man who is believed to be his only relative.

FORT MYERS PRESS, March 9, 1933 - >The body of Mrs. Margaret Wagner, 70, who died late Tuesday night at the Useppa Inn on Useppa sland, was sent from Boca Grande late yseterdday to Dayton, Ohio for burial.  Mrs. Wagner and her husband had been regular winter visitors at the inn for 17 years and were among the first to spend the winter at the inn. Mrs. Wagner suffered a heart attackt wo days before her death. Mr. Waner, retired contractor of Chicago, accompanied the body.  Arrangements for sending the body were in charge of Lawrence A. powell, Inc.

THE BRADENTON HERALD (Manatee Co., FL), Friday, 4 Mar 1977, Page B2-- Mrs. Loren H Wainwright 84, of 1412 4th St., Palmetto died Wednesday in Manatee Memorial Hospital. Visitation will be form 7-9 p.m. today in Edwards Funeral Home of Palmetto. Service will begin at 2 p.m. Saturday in the funeral home. The Rev. DeWitt Mathews will officiate. Burial will be in Manasota Memorial Park. Born in Punta Gorda, Mrs. Wainwright came to Palmetto 17 years ago from New York City. She was a homemaker and member of Palmetto Women’s Club. Mrs. Wainwright was a member of First Baptist Church of Palmetto. Survivors include a brother Carey W. Johnson of Boca Grande; two nephews, Thomas J. Sammon and Iredell W. Sammon, both of Miami; three nieces, Mrs. Lydia Brummer of Sarasota, Mrs. Dellzell Halvin, and Miss Susan Sammon, both of Miami.

THE BRADENTON HERALD (Manatee Co., FL), Tuesday, 16 Jan 1973, Page B2 Microfilm, Smathers library, University of Florida, Gainesville.-- Mr. Walter H. Wainwright, 92 of 1412 4th St. in Palmetto died Monday, 15 January 1973 at a local nursing home. He was born in Worcester County Maryland and came to Palmetto from New York, N.Y. in 1950, He was a retired marine engineer. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Loren J. Wainwright, Edwards Funeral Home of Palmetto is in charge of arrangements.

Fort Myers News-Press Jan 20, 2009 Lois Johnson Waldorf, 83, of Fort Myers, passed away Saturday, January 17, 2009 following an extended illness. She was born April 16, 1925 in Fort Myers and has lived here most of her life. She was a homemaker and member of First United Methodist Church of Fort Myers. Mrs. Waldorf is survived by her husband of over 60 years, Douglas L. Waldorf; her children, Cheryl McGinnis and husband, Richard of Gainesville and Douglas L. Waldorf, Jr. and his wife, Donna of Fort Myers; her sister, Vivian Kight and her husband, James of Sebring; her grandchildren: Christen Crevasse and her husband, Beau, Jennifer McGinnis, Michael McGinnis, Steven Waldorf and Brennan Waldorf and one great grandson: Hunter Crevasse. Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, January 21, 2009 at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home with entombment to follow in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Friends will be received from 10:00 AM until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alvin A. Dubin Alzheimer's Resource Center, 10051 McGregor Blvd., STE 101, Fort Myers, FL 33919 or to Hope Hospice of Lee County, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907, 239-936-0555.

Ft Myers News-Press, 2006-06-08 -- 5/31/41 - 6/03/06 Earnest Willard Waldron, Florida native, age 65, passed awasy on June 3, 2006. Born to one of Punta Gorda's oldest native family Juddie & Hattie (Curry) Waldron which preceded him in death. Earnest started out early in his life by shrimping with his older brothers between Texas and Florida. But that ended with numerous hurricanes and a fire aboard the boat he was on. He then moved to N. Fort Myers in 1970 where he raised his children and became one of Fort Myers first few aluminum installers he stayed in the business for 40 years until his health failed him 2 years ago. He truly was a pioneer in the Aluminum Industry. He is survived by his wife Judith Waldron of 44 years, his daughter Anna and son-in-law Dave Edwards and grandchildren Arlana (his little kiddo) Timothy Stone, David and Joseph (his fishing buddy's) and Rileigh Edwards (his little doctor) all of Lehigh Acres; his distant daughter Mary Bussino and grandchildren Jennifer Graham and Todd Bussino Jr., great-grandchildren Heather Graham of Vermont, his brothers Newton (June) Waldron of N. Fort Myers, Buck (Marge) Waldron of Punta Gorda, Robert Waldron of Sarasota and numerous nieces and nephews. The 3 most important things i his life were his wife and grandchildren and fishing. He will truly be missed. A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 10, at 11 AM at Anderson Funeral Home, Lehigh Acres

Tampa Tribune, 9 Mar 2005-- Gladys Waldron, 99, of Arcadia, passed away March 8, 2005. Gladys was born May 12, 1905, in Birmingham, Ala. She came to the Hardee and DeSoto County area in 1916 by ox cart. She was one of the last pioneers of DeSoto County. She is survived by three sons, Thomas H. (Daisy) Waldron of White Springs, Fla., Gerald G. (Joann) Waldron of Wauchula and James Calvin (Lucy) Waldron of Yelm, Wash.; one daughter, Elizabeth Betty (Larry) Cain of Rogersville, Tenn.; 10 grandchildren; 19 great- grandchildren; and 11 great-great-grandchildren. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, March 9, at the Arcadia Church of the Nazarene located at 132 W. Gibson St. in Arcadia. Services will be 11 a.m. Thursday, March 10, at the Arcadia Church of the Nazarene. Robarts Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, March 6, 1938--Mrs. Henry Grady Waldrop, 47-year-old Lee county resident, died yesterday morning at the home of her daughter, Mrs. R. E. Gooding on the north side of the river. She had been a resident of Lee county for 16 years. She is survived by two sons, W. C. Waldrop, jr., and G. W. Waldrop, and a daughter, Mrs. Gooding, and three brothers, J. D. Wicker, Y. F. Wicker of South Carolina and Albert Wicker of North Carolina, and a sister, Mrs. H. H. Burns of Atlanta, Ga. The body will be shipped over the Atlantic Coast Line at 10:10 o'clock this morning to Newberry, S. C. Lawrence A. Powell has charge of arrangements.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, March 5, 1926-- William C. Waldrop, 42, head of the Waldrop realty company, was killed, and Mrs. Waldrop seriously injured, when their car crashed into a mule on Lee county boulevard two and one half miles east of the city liits at 9 o'clock last night. The animal stepped onto the pavement directly in front of the oncoming machine, which struck it and turned over several times. The Waldrops and Lee Cockman, who was riding with them, were pinned underneath the 4,600 pound Lincoln. All of them were knocked unconscious. Neighbors attracted by the smash and passing motorists lifted the car off the bodies of the three and pulled them out. Mr. and Mrs. Waldrop were immediately rushed to the hospital. Major Waldrop, said by witnesses to be living at the time, died on the way to the hospital. Cockman, who was not seriously injured, hysterically refused to go to the hospital. The Waldrops and Cockman are neighbors in Palm Lake Villa, about four miles east of the city limits. Cockman told a graphic story of how the accident happened: The Waldrops decided to come into town to visit Mr.and Mrs. E. H. Evans,and they invited me to go along," he said. "We all sat in the front seat of the Lincoln. We were going about 35 miles an hour, Waldron driving, when I saw the mule on the side of the road and called his attention to it. ";You don't think that mule will jump out on the road, do you?', I asked. "He said no, but just as we came up to it, it ran in front of us. That's all I remember except that it seemed ages before anyone came. I guess I was unconscious." The car, according to Jack Harned, district sales manager of Poincianna, who was on his way back to Fort Myers from Miami when he saw the accident, had turned over onto the pavement on the driving side, the weight crushing Waldrop. All that saved Cockman's life, he said, was the fact that the windshield frame on his side sheltered him. The car itself was badly smashed and the mule was killed outright. G. S. McLaughlin, who runs a dairy farm nearby, was on the scene immediately with Harry Householder and other neighbors. McLaughlin took Waldrop to the hospital,but the real estate man died in his arms while passing through the East End. A Mr. Kirk, connected with the Seaboard, took Mrs. Waldrop to the hospital and Joe Stephens brought Cockman into town. He spent the night at Harold Davis' home. "Waldrop died of a fracture at the base of the skull," said Dr. G. A. Longbrake, who was called to attend. "Mrs. Waldrop is badly bruised and may be injured internally. I can't say yet how serious her condition is." The Waldrops have three children, a girl of 10 and boys of six and nine. The girl and the youngest boy are at home with Mrs. Waldrop's mother. At a late hour last night they had not been notified of the accident. The oldest boy is 70 miles from here in the woods at a hunting camp. Bill Waldrop, as he was generally known, originally came from South Carolina, but had made his home here. He had been in Fort Myers for four years, recently building his home in Palm Lake Villa, his own development. "I feel terrible about it alll," said Cockman last night. "I had only known him for about six months since we hae been neighbors, but I never met a more likeable man in my life. You couldn't meet finer people than the Waldrops."

Fort Myers News-Press, Dec 2, 2004 - Annie May Peters Walker, age 87, of LaBelle, passed away Nov. 30, 2004 in LaBelle. She was born Sep. 2, 1917 in Sarasota to William Peters and Arminda Mink Peters. She has lived in the area since 1936 and settled in Corkscrew in 1940. Annie was a member of the LaBelle Church of God. Survivors include her children: Lois Fussell (Lyoid Sr.) and Novell Walker (Mary), both of LaBelle and Shirley Handley (John) of Corkscrew, sister: Sydney Yocke of Sarasota, brothers: Everett Peters of Sarasota, L.J. Peters of Fruitville and Early Peters of Starke, grandchildren Randy, Rhonda, Robbie, Ramona, Wendy, Harlan, Shiela and Becky, Step-grandchildren Ann, Cindy, Lyoid Jr. (Thumper) and Ashley, great-grandchildren Lewis, Chester, Leeann, Maura, Dekota, Darrell, Olivia, Jacob, John, Loran, Leeland, Nikki and Carley, Step-great-grandchildren: Derreck, Kelly, Donnie, Adrian, Phillip, Russell and Kyle and great-great grandchildren: Callie, Tera and Reece and Step-great-great grandchildren: Meghan and Shay. She was preceded in death by her husband, Chester Walker. Funeral services will be Sat., Dec 4, 2004, 2:00 p.m. at the LaBelle Church of God with Rev. Jim O'Bannon officiating. Interment will follow at Fort Denaud Cemetary. Visitation will be Friday from 7-9 p.m. at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle.

Fort Myers News-Press, September 28, 2006 -- Clara Mae Walker, age 89, of Ortona, passed away peacefully September 24, 2006 in LaBelle to be with Jesus. She was born Sept. 8, 1917 in Fort Myers to Harlis and Mary (Lee) Tucker. Survivors include her son: Dr. Jimmie (Beverly) Walker of Spartanburg, SC, daughters: Patricia Ann Walker of Ortona and Janet (Bobby) Erwin of Fort Myers, brothers: Earnest Boyd and Harry (Patricia) Boyd of Bonifay, nine grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren. A graveside funeral service will be held Fri. Sept. 29, 2006, 11:00 am at Fort Myers Cemetery with Chaplain Bob Moore officiating. Visitation is tonight from 6-8 p.m. at Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Clarence Walker, age 73, of LaBelle, passed away Dec. 2, 2006 in Fort Myers.He was born Dec. 20, 1932 to the late Daniel Horace and Dorothy Ella (Albritton) Walker. He was a Ranch Foreman, employed by Alico for many years.He was preceded in death by his son, Donald Harvey Walker.His survivors include his wife, Shirley Lea (Turner) Walker; his sons, Robert (Denise) Walker of North Carolina, Johnny Norris (Debby) Walker of Clewiston and Tommy (Regina) Walker of LaBelle; daughters, Sharon (Johnie) White of LaBelle and Shirley (Jimmy) Coker of Arcadia and brothers, Guiness (Dorothy) Walker and Edward Walker, both of Arcadia; a sister, Grace Youmans of Lake Placid; grandchildren, Amanda, Buddy, Lory, Shanna, Jessica, Chad, Keith, Leanne, Justin and Morgan; great-grandchildren, Dustin, Cheyenne, Rhett, Payton, Katelyn, and Haley. Visitation was held on Tuesday, Dec. 5, from 6 until 8 p.m. at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle.Funeral services were held Wednesday, Dec. 6, at 10 a.m., Graveside was held at Felda Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Atkins officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Ft. Myers, FL 33908.All arrangements were under the direction of Akin-Davis Funeral Home, LaBelle

FORT MYERS PRESS - October 19, 1918 A great number of sympathizing friends met the train today which brought the body of George Walker of Buckingham, who died at Camp Jackson, Columbia, S. C., a few days ago of pneumonia. Company A of the Lee County Guards under command of Lieut. A. N. Wintle furnished the pall bearers and also served as military escort as far as the bridge on its route to the cemetery at Buckingham. All the county pays tribute to this young man, who died while discharging his duty to his country. That he died in action can be said of him as truly as though he had died on the battlefield.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Dec. 27, 1933--Funeral services for H(arley). W. Walker, 34, who died in Miami Monday, will be held at 11 o'clock this morning at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel on First street. A military service will be conducted by members of the American Legion. Walker had gone to Miami from this city to seek employment. He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Kyle Walker of this city, three brothers and five sisters. They are C. C. Walker of Dade City, B. N. Walker of Atlanta, Sherman Walker of this city, Mrs. Bulah McGuire of Deland, Mrs. Lulu James of Tampa, Mrs. Belle Faden of New York, Mrs. Mendal Steadham of Atlanta and Mrs. M. Whitehead of this city.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Nov. 22, 1934--Johnny Walker, Jr., age 11 months, died yesterday morning at the home of his parents, 2417 East Park avenue, after an illness of five days. Services will be at 10 o'clock this morning with the Rev. J. J. Musselwhite conducting the rites. Lawrence A. Powell is in charge of arrangements

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, Feb. 12, 1929--Martha E. Walker, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. B. D. Walker of Alva, who died Saturday night, was buried Sunday at the Buckingham cemetery. Funeral arrangements were in charge of L. W. Engelhardt.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, April 17, 1932--Services were held yesterday afternoon at the graveside of Nephi Walker, aged 11, whose death followed a short illness. The service in Buckingham cemetery was conducted by the Rev. W. H. Edwards, with Lawrence Powell in charge of the arrangements. The boy was survived by his parents, two brotehrs, Willard and Rufus, and one sister, Effie Walker.

FORT MYERS PRESS, Feb. 11, 1930--The body of Robert L. Walker, who died at his home on Cattage street at 4:30 a.m. yesterday was sent to his old home at Stanton this afternoon, after funeral services had been conducted at the L. W. Engelhardt chapel on Hendry street, under the direction of the Rev. C. T. Tew of the First Baptist church. Mr. Walker is survived by a daughter, mrs. B. Reed of Miami.

THE FORT MYERS PRESS, Nov. 5, 1929--The body of Dr. William Powell Walker, 69, who died of arteriosclerosis and dilatation of the heart yesterday was shipped to Atlanta for burial today by Lawrence Powell, Incorporated, local undertaker. Dr. Walker was born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1860. He came to Lee county about nine years ago, and has resided at Olga for the greater part of that time. He is survived by his wife, Ida C., and by four children.

Ft Myers News-Press, April 13, 2001 - Kathryn L. Walker, 79, of North Ft Myers, died Wednesday, April 11, 2001. She was a member of Holy Trinity Presbyterian Church. Surviving is her husband of 59 years, Leon H. Walker, daughters, Virginia W (Ed) Miller of St. Louis, MO, Bonnie K (Lonnie) Bergman of Fort Worth, TX, Carol F (Karl) Simon of Niceville, FL and eight grandchildren. North Ft Myers Memorial Funeral Home. Interment will be at Lee Memorial Park.

FORT MYERS PRESS,--July 25, 1931 William T. Walker, 75, a resident of Fort Myers for nearly a quarter of a century, died late yesterday. Funeral services were held this morning at 10:30 o'clock at the First Methodist Church with the Rev. G. S. Roberts in charge. Burial was in the Fort Myers Cemetery. Mr. Walker suffered a sudden illness two years ago and never recovered entirely. Although he had been able to be up and around, his health gradually declined and death was not unexpected. He is survived by his widow and a niece, Miss Mattie Harvey, who lived with him at their home on Third Street which he had occupied for more than 20 years. Mr. Walker came here from west Florida and established a bicycle shop which he operated for many years. Pallbearers at the funeral were E. W. Kinzie, Nathan Blount, John Goolsby, B. C. Foxworthy, Samuel Hough and Guy Haddock. L. W. Engelhardt and Son had charge of the funeral arrangements

Charles Wall

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Oct. 10, 1935--Mrs. Naomi Wallace, 74, wife of W. R. Wallace, passed away last night at her home at 314 Cleveland avenue after a short illness. Mrs. Wallace is survived by her husand and a daughter, Mrs. J. E. Frierson of Moore Haven. Funeral arrangements are in charge of Lawrence A. Powell and will be announced later.

Fort Myers News-Press, 6 Dec 2006-- Norman E. Wallace, age 78, of Fort Myers, went to be with the Lord on December 1, 2006 at Hospice House in Fort Myers after a brief but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born August 23, 1928 in Mulberry, FL and was raised in Ft. White, FL. He is survived by his beloved wife, Merle of 56 years; a daughter Debra (Dennis) Gilkey of Bonita Springs and their children, Jason and Melissa, and great-grandchild, Jarrett; a son Kenneth (Kathryn) Wallace of Fort Myers and their children, Lena and Drew; a brother Jack; 4 sisters-in-law, 2 brothers-in-law, many nieces and nephews, and countless friends. He was preceded in death by 3 brothers, Elmer, Raleigh and Ralph .Norman moved to Jacksonville, FL after graduating from Ft. White High School in 1946 and started working for International Harvester as a clerk in the parts department. After several years he was promoted into truck sales. His biggest accomplishments included handling Ryder Truck Rental account in the late sixties, selling the 3 millionth International Truck produced to Florida Power and Light, and managing with great success the dealerships in Miami and St. Petersburg. After 26 years of service with International, he purchased the International Truck dealership in Fort Myers in 1972. (Wallace International Trucks) He enjoyed working every day until his recent illness. He felt that his loyal employees and customers were his best friends .Norman was admired and respected by all who knew him and he will always be remembered for his warm personality, wit, wisdom, honesty and selflessness. His favorite place to relax was on water in Crystal River, FL. He was a great husband, father and grandfather that enjoyed spending time with his family, which he loved very much. He leaves his family a wonderful legacy to continue, and he will be missed dearly. A visitation will be held on Friday, December 8th, from 3 PM to 7 PM at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home on Colonial Blvd. A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at Wesley Memorial Church, 4141 DeLeon St., on Saturday, December 9th at 11 AM. In Lieu of flowers, we kindly request contributions in memory of Norman to the American Cancer Society, 4575 Via Royale unit #110. Fort Myers, FL 33919. Please designate for pancreatic cancer research or to Hope Hospice, 9470 Health Park Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908 for making his last days the most comfortable as possible.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, April 9, 1929--William J. Wallace, 56 years old, died yesterday at the home of his sister and brother-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Arndt, where he and his family have been visiting for a week. They had spent the winter in Miami. His wife and two daughters, Miss Marian and Miss Helen who survive, expect to take the body to their home, Duluth, Minn., within a few days for burial.

FORT MYERS NEWS PRESS, Nov 23 2004 -- Mortimer L. Wallerstein died peacefully at his home in Estero, Florida, Tuesday, Nov. 16, following a long illness. All that new and loved him called him "Bud". He was a wonderful, creative and loving man with great humor. Bud was an artist, musician, director of plays, story teller, and magician. Bud was also an avid fisherman and loved the sea. Bud is survived by his wife of 59 years, Anita Doff, immediate family include his twin sons Steven and Martin and daughter Nancy. Bud has 4 grandchildren and one great grandchild. Bud was a veteran of WWII served on the aircraft Yorktown. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hope Hospice, 27970 Crown Lake Blvd., Bonita Springs, FL 34135. A "Celebration of Life" will be held Friday at Temple Shalom in Norwalk CT and a private burial service in New Haven, CT Sunday.

Fort Myers News-Press April 12, 2009 Dr. Priscilla LaBonville Walling died on Wednesday, April 8, 2009 at Lee Memorial Hospital following a sudden stroke. She was sixty-three at the age of her death. Priscilla was a brilliant, strong woman with notable achievements in her career and incredible commitment to her church and charitable causes. She is deeply loved and missed by her family and friends.Priscilla was born on November 1, 1945 in Manchester, New Hampshire to Claire and Arthur LaBonville. She was the eldest of four children. The LaBonville family spoke French at home, proud of their French-Canadian heritage. Priscilla was a talented accordion player having been taught by the famous Donati Family of Hooksett, NH, for whom she eventually taught.Priscilla received her B.A. in chemistry from Mount St. Mary's College in Hooksett, New Hampshire in 1967, her M.S. in 1969 and her Ph.D. in 1971 both in inorganic chemistry from University of Detroit in Detroit, Michigan, and her M.B.A. from Keller Graduate School of Management in Illinois in 1998. She was an active member of the Iota Sigma Pi Honor Society.Priscilla conducted the laboratory work for her doctorate at Argonne National Laboratory in Darien, Illinois where she met her husband, Dennis Walling. Dennis and Priscilla married on January 9, 1971. Priscilla worked for Helene Curtis, which later became Unilever Home and Personal Care, beginning in 1984 in the Research and Development division. When she retired in 2004, she was Director of Measurement Science.In 2004, after retiring, Priscilla moved to N. Fort Myers to care for her parents. She was the treasurer of the Council of Catholic Women at St. Therese Parish and was an active volunteer for the St. Vincent de Paul Society in Fort Myers. She was an avid golfer and tennis player and member of the Heron?s Glen Tennis Association. Throughout her life, she was dedicated to the Catholic Church and to raising money for breast cancer, an illness that she survived in 1993.Priscilla is survived by her husband Dennis Walling of FL; her sons, Matthew Walling and Kenneth Walling of IL; daughter Jennifer Walling of IL; parents Claire and Arthur LaBonville of FL; sister Helene (LaBonville) McIntosh of FL; brothers Arthur LaBonville and wife Carol of FL and Jean LaBonville and wife Sue of NH; Aunts Jeannette (Charest) Bergeron of NH, Cecile (Charest) Lessard and her husband Marcel of NH and FL, Marie (Charest) Vigneault and husband Ed of FL, Pauline (Charest) Wenzel and husband Herb of FL; nieces Lisa LaBonville of NY and Tara Adams of WI; nephews Art Stickney of ME, Corey LaBonville of TX, and Joey LaBonville; sister-in-law Julie Dieterle of WI; and brother-in-law Joseph Walling of WI.Services will take place on Monday, April 13 at 10AM at St. Therese Church in Fort Myers with a reception to follow at noon at the Ball Room in Heron's Glen. Thank you to the Council of Catholic Women at St. Therese Parish and the Heron's Glen Tennis Association for organizing the service and reception.In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her honor, to the American Cancer Society, Lee County Unit, 4575 Via Royale Suite 110, Fort Myers, FL 33919.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Dec. 20, 1935--James Selby Wallis, 70, died yesterday morning at his home at 200 Cleveland avenue after an illness of six weeks. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Mabel Wallis; a son, Lionel Wallis; a daughter, Miss Jean Wallis and a sister who lives in England. Funeral services will be held at 11 o'clock this morning at St. Luke's Episcopal church with the Rev. F. A. Shore officiating. Pallbearers are asked to meet at 10:30 at the Lawrence A. Powell funeral home. They are Dr. Henry Needham, Dr. C. M. Joyce, Harry K. Davison, Deane Turner, Thomas Biggar and W. M. Harley. Mr. Wallis was born in London, England. He studied art and became art advisor to a large clientele, including the King of England, until the world war. He was an army volunteer in his younger days and at the outbreak of the war he joined again as lieutenant instructor to recruits. After a nervous breakdown he joined relatives in Florida in 1917. His wife and family followed in 1919. He was a member of St. Luke's Episcopal church.

Fort Myers News-Press, Dec 01, 2004-- Phyllis J. Wallis, 81, of Rotonda West, FL passed away November 25, 2004. She was born February 9, 1923 in Jackson, Michigan. Mrs. Wallis served in the Navy during World War II. She was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and will be missed by all her family and friends. Survivors include her daughters, Sally Lukas of Rotonda West, FL; Barbara (Steve) Brown of Brooklyn Park, MN; son, Robert Wallis of Cape Coral, FL. Memorial services and internment will be at Arlington National Cemetery .

Fort Myers News-Press-July 14, 2008- Gary D. Walsh, 61, of Cape Coral died Saturday July 12, 2008 at his home. He was born in New York in 1946 to Richard & Hilda Walsh. Gary moved to Cape Coral in 1970 from Greenfield, MA. He owned and operated All American Insurance Agency for many years and also worked for Galeana Chrysler. Gary enjoyed spending time with his family fishing and playing cards. He will be remembered as a great handyman. He was a member of St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church.Survivors include his wife of 36 years, Mary, one son Gary D. Walsh, Jr., three daughters Jeanette (Jeff) Phillips, Teresa (Roy) Stabler, and Mary (Michael Schneider) Walsh, three brothers; Richard (Evelyn), Thomas (Daryl) and Michael Walsh, three sisters Jacqueline (Robert) Kulch, Cynthia Bonnett, and Susan Martin, six grandchildren; Cullen, Karrigan, Julionna, Isabella, Emma and Alexandria; sister-in-law Carol D'Auria, brothers- in-law Mario (Michelle) and Mike D'Auria and numerous nieces and nephews.A funeral mass will be celebrated 10:00 AM Wednesday July 16, 2008 at St. Katharine Drexel Church in Cape Coral. Burial will follow at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital St. Jude Children's Research Hospital St. Jude Children's Research HospitalSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942.Arrangements by the Metz Chapel of Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Homes and Crematory, Cape Coral. Online condolences may be viewed and offered at:www.metzfuneralhome.com.

Fort Myers News-Press, 20 Dec 2006-- Claire T. Walter, 95, of Fort Myers, FL passed away December 10, 2006 at Hope Hospice, Ft. Myers. She was born on June 1, 1911 in Littleton, NH and graduated from high school in 1929. After her marriage the family lived in West Burke, VT and then moved back to Littleton where they owned Littleton Gas Co. and later Ken Walter Gas until 1960. She came to Sanibel Island, FL in 1960 soon after Hurricane Donna had passed where they operated the Blue Dolphin Motel. On Sanibel Island she was the owner of "Sanibel-Captiva Real Estate" and was a board member of the San-Cap Chamber of Commerce. Claire was an original board member and vice-president of CROW (Care and Rehabilitation of Wild Life) when it incorporated. CROW was founded by her daughter, Shirley J. Walter. She was a member of the Baha'i Spiritual Assembly, of Lee County.She is survived by sons, Everett and Stephen "Skip", daughter, Shirley, grandchildren, Kevin, Maureen, Elizabeth, Thomas and Lua, great grandchildren, Jonathan, Christopher, Alayne, John and Catherine.She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth in 1983 after 54 years of marriage and her grandsons, Michael and David.Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations in her name be made to Hope Hospice, 9470 Health Park Circle, Ft. Myers, FL 33908.

Ft Myers News-Press, April 27, 2001 - Donald R. "Don" Walters, 58, of Bonita Springs, FL, died Sunday, April 22, 2001 after a brief battle with cancer. Born in Springfield, OH, in 1942, the son of Lucien and Myrtle Walters. He graduated from Springfield High School and attended Ohio State University. While living in Springfield he was the sales Manager of WBLY Radio, hosted the popular Auction Man Show and was co-founder of the Shoppers News. He later owned and operated WXUS Radio Station Lafayette, IN. After moving to Southwest Florida he founded Consumer Communications, Inc., an advertising and marketing firm based in Bonita Springs to the present day. He was a member of Spanish Wells Golf and Country Club in Bonita Springs and Heron Creek Golf and Country Club in North Port, FL. He was dearly loved and admired by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Shirlene Walters; seven children, Scott (Amy) Walters of Centerville, OH, Mike (Kathy) Sparrow of Naples, Sam Sparrow of Fort Myers, Michael (Ann Marie) Walters of Hilliard, OH, Meagan (Terry) Sides of Estero, Julie (Mike) Kelly of Lexington, MA and Jeffrey (Kelly) Walters of Naples; two brothers, David (Frankie) Walters of Springfield, OH, Dustin (Vickie) Walster of South Charleston, OH; three sisters, Angela (Larry) Yoakum of Yellow Springs, OH, Amy Aman of Springfield, OH, Phyllis (Roger) Boles, Lebanon, TN; fourteen grandchildren and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews; dear friends and associate Bob and Jeanie Pierce. He was preceded in death by his father Lucien Walters, birth mother, Arizona Senne and brother Doug Senne. Relatives and friends may call at the Fuller Funeral Home, 1625 Pine Ridge Road, Naples on Thursday, April 26, 2001 from 6:00 p.m to 8:00 p.m. A funeral services will be held Friday, April 27, 2001, at 1:00 p.m. at Fuller Funeral Home. Entombment will follow in Lee Memorial Park, Fort Myers, FL. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to your local American Cancer Society. Fuller Funeral Home Pine Ridge Road 592-1611

Walterson, Johnny Jr

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Sept. 19, 1944 -- Mrs. Emily M. Waltman of 2110 Lee Street and wife of Robert J. Waltman, died yesterday at the Lee Memorial Hospital. Besides her husband, she leaves a son, John Waltman; a grandson, John Waltman, Jr.; and a sister, Mrs. Allen Mercer of Pittsburgh, Pa.Funeral services, conducted by the Rev. Thomas Craigie Smart of the Presbyterian Church, will be held at 3 o'clock this afternoon at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel.  Pallbearers will be Jim Cannon, Robert G. Wilson, Jack Holst, Roger W. Smith, San Johnston and L. C. Curtright. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.Mrs. Waltman had been a resident of Fort Myers for 19 years, coming here with her husband from Denver, Colo., in 1925.

FORT MYERS NEWS PRESS, May 8, 1933--Clinton H(yde) Walworth, eccentric 84-year-old resident, died yesterday afternoon at his residence at 134 Second street. He had been ill but a short itme from heart trouble. Mr. Wallworth had been a winter resident of Florida for 50 sessions when he made his permanent home in Fort Myers 10 years ago. He was of a reticent nature and would not talk of his early life in Milwaukee, although it is believed he was associated with the postoffice there for many years. He is known to have left a substantial fortune. A niece, Mrs. Ralph E. Newton of Milwaukee, is the only known survivor. The body is in charge of Lawrence A. Powell, Inc., and will be sent late this afternoon to Milwaukee. May 9,1933--The body of Clinton Walworth, 84, who died Sunday, was placed aboard a train late yesterday to be sent to Milwaukee, his former home. There were no services here. Lawrence A. Powell was in charge of preparing the body for shipment. Mr. Walworth, who had lived here for 10 years, was the son of Judge Clinton Walworth who was a pioneer lawyer of Wisconsin and who had served many years as police and probate judge in Milwaukee in the midle of the nineteenth century. Clinton Walworth, jr., graduated from Racine college; in Racine, Wis., and for 17 years served in the registered letter department of the Milwaukee postoffice. After becoming interested in Florida, Mr. Walworth acquired several orange groves, finally making his permanent residence in Fort Myers. He had returned to Milwaukee each summer until 1922, when he made Florida his permanent home. He was married in 1914, his wife dying a few years ago. He was a member of the fashionable St. Paul's Episcopal church in Milwaukee.

Fort Myers News-Press, Feb 23, 2005 -- Steven Tyler Wambolt, 19, of Cape Coral died Sunday, February 20, 2005. A life long resident of Cape Coral, he is survived by his father and step mother Kevin S. and Sherri Wambolt of Cape Coral, his mother Julie K. Kilpatrick of Cape Coral, a brother Ryan Wambolt of Cape Coral, three sisters Aimee Wambolt, Halyn Wambolt, Paige Bureau all of Cape Coral, paternal grandmother Mary Wambolt of Ft. Myers, paternal grandparents George and Nancy Starner of Fairfield, Ohio, maternal grandparents Charles and Patricia Kilpatrick of Ft. Myers, maternal great-grandparents John and Dorothy Axberg of Englewood, Florida, maternal great-grandmother Catherine Crase of Ft. Myers and maternal great-grandmother Ruth Childers of N. Ft. Myers. Funeral services will be conducted today Wednesday, February 23, 2005 at 6:00 PM at Grace United Methodist Church. Friends may call one hour prior to the service at the church. The family would prefer memorial contributions be made to Teen Challenge, Grace United Methodist Church. Arrangements by Coral Ridge Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press May 4, 2008 Irene C. Warburton, 89, died Friday, May 2, 2008 at Shady Rest Nursing Pavillion. She received her M.S.W. from Fordam University in N.Y. and practiced social work until her retirement. She moved to Florida with her husband, W. Kenneth, in 1982 and lived in Cape Coral. She is survived by her 3 children, Kenneth, Charles, 2 grandchildren, Laura and Michelle of NY, and a daughter, Irene Warburton-Ennis of 569 Bayside Dr., Ft. Myers. She was a past president of the Knight's of Columbus and a member of St. Andrew's parish in Cape Coral.Viewing at Cape Coral Ridge Funeral Home, 1630 Pine Island Rd, Cape Coral, Sunday, May 4, from 1-4 PM.Funeral mass at St. Andrew's Church on May 5 at 1 PM, followed by interment at Coral Ridge Cemetery.

Caloosa Belle Apr 3, 2009 MOORE HAVEN - Audrey Langdale Ward, of Moore Haven, passed away March 27, 2009, in Moore Haven. She was 77. She was born Aug. 15, 1931, in Moore Haven to Noah Langdale and Mamie (McCall) Langdale. She was a lifelong resident of Moore Haven. Audrey worked for many years at Alvin's Bait & Tackle. Survivors include son, Alvin L. Ward Jr. (Lorie) of Moore Haven; daughters, Brenda Choban (Joe), and Alvina Marie Ward, both of Moore Haven; sisters, Mildred Ford, and Elizabeth Devinney, both of Moore Haven; 11 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Sunday, March 29, 2009, at First Baptist Church of Moore Haven with Reverend Sherrill Tillery officiating. Interment followed in Ortona Cemetery, Moore Haven. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.

James Michael Ward,80, passed away on Nov. 13, 2004, at the home of his beloved daughter, Nancy, surrounded by dear friends and family. He was born on Nov. 29, 1923, in Jersey City. He served his country in the Marines during World War II, stationed in the South Pacific. Upon receiving an honorable discharge, he studied theater at Florida Southern College, received his bachelor's from Carnegie Mellon and did graduate work at the University of Colorado. He became a versatile character actor, featured in more than 100 roles on stage and in movies with James Arness, Richard Chamberlain, John Denver and Sada Thompson. In 1954, he joined the staff at ABC-TV and produced the televised hearings led by Sen. Joseph McCarthy into the alleged Communist influence in the Army. He went on to teach educational television at the University of Colorado. His love of theater and real life drama merged when he joined with an attorney to teach The Courtroom as Theater,instructing lawyers in basic theater techniques which they could apply to trial situations. You have to take the same reverence to a trial that a good honest actor takes to a play, he said. He shared his skills with his daughter Diane, who was a criminal defense trial lawyer in Miami for 20 years and is now a circuit court judge. He was a favorite guest star in the classroom of his daughter Nancy, who teaches elementary school in Naples, telling animated stories to her captivated students. Throughout his life he showed a passion for the underdog or dispossessed. While living in West Virginia, he wrote a poem which became a hit song, condemning the mining disaster that killed hundreds of people in Buffalo Creek. We must determine once and for all that people are more important than coal. This song is a plea that all men turn their minds from a search for profit toward a quest for the prevention of preventable disasters. He was an actor, college professor, deputy sheriff, journalist, drama critic, political campaign manager, TV director, father, confidante and a dear friend of Bill W. He is survived by his daughter Diane (Edward) O'Donnell of Miami; daughter Nancy Titus and grandson Riley of Naples; daughter Leslie (Byron and Melissa) of Washington; sisterAnn Marie Butenhoff; brother Sean (Flo) and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother Patty, sisters Susan and Margaret, and wife Rita. A Memorial Mass to celebrate his life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 20, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 625 111th Ave., North Naples. Walter Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.

Fort Myers News-Press--Dec 17, 2007 Lanny "Hoss" Dale Ward, 65, passed away on December 14, 2007. Born in Los Angeles, California, he was a resident of Fort Myers for many years and worked as a contractor for Raymond Building System for over 25 years.He was predeceased by his father, Lorin Wilson Ward; mother, Rose Ward; and brother, Charelton Ward. He is survived by his children Jeff Dale Ward, Wendi Lisa Ward, Anthony Leon Ward and Ashley Marie Ward; and sister, Daphene Elaine Brower. Lanny "Hoss" loved music, family, friends and the Flywheel Club. He would have wanted everyone to share stories about the good times spent with him and not tears. He will be missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.The family will receive friends on Tuesday evening, December 18th from 6-8pm at the Anderson Funeral Home chapel, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd. with funeral services beginning at 8pm. Graveside services will be conducted at 10:30am, Wednesday, December. 19th at the Fort Myers Cemetery.There will be a gathering for family and friends on Wednesday, December 19th from 6-8pm at his sister, Elaine's house, 7228 Pelas Circle, N. Fort Myers, FL 33917 (Daughtrey's Creek). Please call for directions at 239-292-1906.

Fort Myers News-Press, Sep 29, 2007 -- Life long resident of Fort Myers will be remembered! Virginia Houghton Powell Ward was born in Portsmouth, Virginia, on February 1, 1915, to John Dalrymple Powell and Virginia Houghton Phillips Powell. Virginia was the oldest of three children between the two; there was also Cora Legh Powell (Shields), followed by John Dalrymple Powell, Jr. Shortly after John D. Powell's birth, their mother, Virginia Houghton Phillips Powell succumbed to birthing and the dreaded influenza of that time. Virginia Powell, again the oldest children was five years old at the time. Her grandmother on her mother's side, cared for the children in the absence of their mother. Virginia attended Peabody school in Portsmouth, Virginia. A major occurrence to Virginia, as she would later reminisce was when she, as a young girl, celebrated what she termed her "debut". This was a time when adolescent young girls would attend a chaperoned event and give out her "calling" card, thus allowing young men in the community to call upon the girls socially. Another great event occurred, at this time, that would change Virginia's life forever, the depression. John, her father, an engineer by vacation looked toward Florida for work to proved for the children. Sometime after their move to Florida, John Powell met and married Katherine Wilson on December 11, 1930. From this marriage, Virginia was given three more brothers and sisters; Richmond, Robert and Kathryn (Kashi). Florida, economically, was no panacea for economic flourishing at this time. Virginia, in later years would recall working at a local confectionary business she called "The Sweet Shop" in downtown Fort Myers. Listening to her remembering the "sweet shop", even if it wasn't a pursuit of a life long dream for anyone in the family, as she would say it was a venture "to make ends meet." If there was anything that remained with her from those days it was her fondness for the sweeter things in life! Virginia graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1933. She subsequently began to work for the Seaboard Railroad Company in Fort Myers. Interestingly, while employed at Seaboard, the company was under the leadership of L.R. Powell, her father's older brother. Virginia would throughout her life, embellish on the warm and gracious nature of "Uncle Legh." She would remember, as an employee, traveling on the railway, and when available, she was given a place on the Presidential coach, which was the last car on the train and reserved usually for dignitaries and guests of the company. But, more importantly to her, she cherished the times her Uncle Legh would come and personally check on her needs. She always thought her Uncle Legh was a true prince. Virginia's next event, that would change her life forever, was when she met Charles Wilson Ward, a 1930 graduate of Fort Myers High School. Henceforth, on September 13, 1939, Wilson and Virginia were bound in holy matrimony in Hendersonville, North Carolina. Standing for Virginia was her younger sister, Cora Legh and for Wilson, his older brother David Elmer (D.E.). The subsequent union provided fruitful as to offspring. Wilson and Virginia's bond produced five children; Virginia P. Ward, Charles Wilson Ward Jr., Mary Elizabeth Ward, William L. Ward and John H. Ward. Virginia, while attending five children's needs, would also remain an active participant in local community affairs. She was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church, and a member of the local chapters for the Elizabeth Benevolent Society, the Colonial Dames and Daughters of the American Revolution. She played bridge with life long friends for many years and would refer to it as "Bridge Club" and collectively, she and Wilson, over the years would gather with their friends on Saturday's and enjoy each other's camaraderie...they called it "Supper Club." A memorable event in the history of Fort Myers was the fact that Virginia was one of the few remaining citizens that actually met, as a young girl, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Edison and Henry Firestone. It was a celebration of Mr. Edison's 81st birthday that took place on the Municipal Pier which was located where what now is the approximate site of the Caloosahatchee River Bridge. Perhaps, for Virginia, one of the most momentous events of her life was when Wilson and D.E. purchased cows together. While Wilson was engaged in the practice of law and became one time Judge of Lee County, that eventful day would be prelude to forming one, of two, of their powerful legacies, the other obviously being their children. With both Wilson, working as an attorney and County Judge, and Virginia, working with her father in his construction business, their combined incomes allowed them to raise their children in comfort and also pursue a lifelong dream of Wilson's. As things turned out, the cattle that D.E. and Wilson purchased together, had to be moved from the area of Big Island, that is located just south of where Corkscrew Island is now. Wilson and Virginia located and purchased a place for the cattle. It was known then as, and still is, Devil's Garden, Hendry County, Florida. Once the eventful decision was made, the cattle made the long drive to this new area, which is what most people know today as J Seven Ranch. The cattle business ironically would eventfully become the providing source for Virginia and Wilson's family. If we were to ask them, Virginia and Wilson, what legacy would they like to forward because of their time spent on the Earth, it would be that in their hearts they have given to their children a place and chance for their children to grow and equal their challenge in life. Charles Wilson died in 1986 and it has been twenty-on years since he and Virginia have been in each others company and hopefully it is now eternal. Their love, on this planet, shall exist in what they both have left behind for their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, now and to come.

Fort Myers News-Press Feb 4, 2009 Cindy L. Warner, 38, of Fort Myers, FL died January 31, 2009. She was born November 30, 1970 in Fort Myers and lived there all her life. She had been employed as an Assembly Technician for Fox Electronics, Inc in Fort Myers for the past 17 years. She is survived by her fiancé, Javier Torres, her children, Savannah and Shaylin Torres, her parents, Al and Geraldine Warner, her brother, Tony Gilmore, all of Fort Myers, FL; sister, Judy Massey of Cape Coral, FL; nieces and nephews, Shannon, Colleen, Daniel and Darin, as well as many cousins and friends.The Visitation will be held from 1:00 pm till 4:00 pm, Sunday, February 8, 2009 at the Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home, 635 E Marion Ave, Punta Gorda. The Funeral Service will be held 11:00 am Monday, February 9, 2009 at the funeral home with burial to follow at Indian Springs Cemetery. Please visit kays-ponger.com to leave the family condolences and to sign the online guestbook. Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home, Punta Gorda chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-12-02 - Dean A. Warner, 81, of Ft. Myers, died November 29, 2004. He was born in San Francisco, CA, a son of the late Blake and Florence Warner. Dean was a veteran of WWII serving in the Army Air Force with the 49th Fighter Group he served in the South Pacific. He moved to California in 1953 and in 1967 he took over ASM Manufacturing Co., supplying airless spray equipment to the paint industry. Dean lived part time in the area from 1991 and moved here full time in 1998, he was a member of Royal Palm Yacht Club, Harbour Yacht Club, he attended McGregor Baptist Church, he was an avid boater and fisherman. Mr. Warner is survived by his wife of 20 years Carolyn S. Warner, his son Dean B. Warner, his daughter Kerry Buehler, his step-children Debbie (Angel) Gutierrez, Douglas (Katie) Murvihill of CA, his grandchildren Kara, Kirsten, Brittany, Aaron, Andrew, Jordyn, Nicole. He was predeceased by his son Todd Warner in 1992. A memorial funeral service celebrating his life will be conducted at the Hope Building in the Chapel of McGregor Baptist Church on Saturday Dec. 4, at 11:00 AM. The family will receive friends in the chapelfrom 10-11 AM. In his memory, memorial contributions may be made to Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Ft. Myers, FL 33908. Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home 239-936-0555.

Fort Myers News-Press on 5/8/2008, --Vernon P. Warner-- Services will be at Anderson Funeral Home in Lehigh on Friday, May 9th, viewing at 9:30am with services at 10:30am followed by graveside military salute at Lee Memorial Park Cemetery on Route 82 at 11:30am.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-10-16 - Buell Warren, 74, of Ft. Myers and formerly of Punta Gorda, died Thursday, October 14, 2004. Buell was born January 17, 1930 in Lucas, KY. He came to Punta Gorda in 1952 from Glasgow, KY and in 1980, he moved to Ft. Myers. He was a dump truck driver for most of his life and he loved to work in his yard. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Survivors include his four children; Edna Phillips of Ft. Myers, Douglas Warren of Punta Gorda, Jimmy Warren of Lehigh Acres, and Fred Warren of Nashville, TN, five grandchildren; Rodney Buell Phillips of Longwood, FL, Stephanie Louise Warren of Punta Gorda, Jessica Lynn Warren of Punta Gorda, Jordan Elizabeth Warren of Lehigh Acres, and Caleb John Warren of Lehigh Acres, and four great-grandchildren; Sarah Phillips, Scott Phillips, Shane Phillips, and Spencer Phillips all of Longwood, FL. His loving wife, Parelean, who passed away February 2, 2002, preceded Mr. Warren in death. A visitation will be held Monday, October 18, 2004, 9-11 AM, with a Funeral Service to follow at 11:00 AM at Kays- Ponger Funeral Home in Port Charlotte. Internment will be at Indian Spring Cemetery in Punta Gorda. In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made to the American Diabetes Assoc., 12734 Kenwood Lane SW, Ste. #39, Ft. Myers, FL 33907.

Fort Myers News-Press, 15 Feb 2007-- Emily E. Warren, of Fort Myers died February 9, 2007 after a long illness. She was 93. She is survived by her husband, John of 50 years, her daughter Gloria McIntee of Hallandale Beach, FL, her step-son Andrew Warren of Pennsylvania and her brother Thomas Exharkis of Maryland .She was born in New York City in 1913 and in 1936 she and her family moved to Asbury Park, New Jersey. Later they moved to Allenhurst, New Jersey. She was well educated. Emily moved to Washington, D.C. in 1940 and was employed by the Army Air Forces (now the U.S. Air Force) at the Pentagon. During her service there she rose to the position of Executive Secretary to the AF's Deputy Chief of Staff for Development and retained that position for four succeeding general officers .In 1954 she met her future husband, John, who also was assigned to the Pentagon. After a courtship of 2 years they were married in Rockville, MD in 1956. In 1961 her husband was transferred to Patrick AFB, Florida, as Chief of Dept. of Defense Manned Space Flight Support planning office for NASA's Project Mercury and Gemini. Emily retired from her civil service position of 20 years and joined her husband in Florida. Emily quickly became involved in the many ladies organizations at Patrick and served two years as President of the Officers Wives Club. After 30 years in the Air Force, her husband retired in 1965 and they both moved to Fort Myers, Florida. Her husband became a Shriner and Emily was active in the various ladies organizations of the Araba Shriners. Of all the organizations, she loved the Daughters of Nile and was a Charter member. In 1967 she was hired as secretary of the Jan Crystals Company in Fort Myers and later became Secretary and Treasurer of the company. After 17 years she retired from the company. She and her husband traveled extensively visiting Hawaii, Mexico, the Far East, Alaska, Europe, Russia and other places. They made many cruises to the various islands in the Caribbean. She was particularly fond of the Greek Islands since she could read, write and speak the Greek language. She is a member of the Greek Orthodox Church at Cypress Lake Drive.Emily was a lovable and devoted wife, romantic, patient, faithful, creative, understanding and always cheerful. She enjoyed meeting people and easily made many friends .Funeral arrangements by Fort Myers Memorial Gardens at 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. A viewing will be held on Wednesday, February 21st from 12 to 2 PM. A private funeral service for family members only will be held Wednesday, February 21st at 2 PM at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, Fort Myers. Following the service, interment will be held at the Masonic Mausoleum at Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Araba Shriners Transportation Fund for Children.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, August 25, 1948--Jimmy Warren, 66, died at his home on Cleveland Avenue yesterday after a long illness. Born August 22, 1882 at Macon, Ga., he had made his home in Fort Myers for the past 30 years. Surviving are his sister, Mrs. Walter H. Scott, Decator, Ga., and one brother, Thomas N. Warren of Macon. The body was sent last night to Macon for services and interment by Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home

Fort Myers News-Press, 1 March 2007-- John E. Warren of Fort Myers died February 26, 2007. He was 92. He was predeceased by his wife, Emily. He is survived by his son, Andrew Warren of Pennsylvania, his daughter Gloria McIntee of Hallandale Beach, Florida, three grandchildren, Erin, Kelli Ann and Adam James and three great-grandchildren. In 1961 he was transferred to Patrick AFB, Florida as Chief of Department of Defense manned space flight support planning office to NASA's project mercury and Gemini. John served 30 years in the Air Force and retired in 1965 and moved to Fort Myers, Florida. John and his late wife, Emily traveled extensively visiting Hawaii, Mexico, the Far East, Alaska, Europe, Russia and other places. They made many cruises to the various islands in the Caribbean.John was a very distinguished mason and shriner. He was a charter member of Noah Lodge 357 of N. Fort Myers as well as a Scottish Rite and York Rite mason of Fort Myers, Florida.In 1967 he became a charter member of Araba Shrine Temple and in 1968 was appointed to the position of Captain of the Guard. In 1970 he was elected the recorder of Araba Temple as well as representative to the Imperial Council and was continuously re-elected to these positions for 15 years.He was elected at an Imperial Council Session in Boston as a representative-emeritus to the Imperial Council. He retired from his position as recorder and was elected Recorder-Emeritus by virtue of his long and faithful service to Araba Temple. He served as Treasurer of Araba Temple from 1985-1993.He served as Editor of the Temple "Palms" for five years and was serving as 1st Lieutenant Commander of the Legion of Honor prior to his election as Recorder.In 1970 he served on the Temple Building Committee during which time the committee was responsible for the expansion of the Temple which doubled the size of the Mosque. He was the Commander of Fort Myers Commandery of Knights Templar and in 1972 was appointed District Deputy Grand Commander, District 2 of Knights Templar in Florida. From 1974 to 1981 he served as Representative of the Grand Commander of Knights Templar of Florida to the Grand Commandery of the District of Columbia. He was a member of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America. In 1973 was honored with the York Rite Purple Cross and Ring.He was a member of the Royal Order of Scotland; a Life Member and Past President of the National Sojourners, Chapter 503; a Past Commander of the Hero's of 76; a member of the Royal American Shrine Club; and Honorary member and Past Secretary of the Fort Myers Cabiri 161 of Past Potentates; and an active member of the Imperial Council Election Tellers Committee since 1970. He was a member of the Royal Order of Jesters, Court 170 and Honorary member of R.O.J., Court 112, Mexico City.He graduated from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science Degree and graduate of George Washington University where he received his Master's Degree in Business Administration.He graduated from the Air Force Institute of Technology, Air Tactical School, Air Force Command and Staff College and retired from the Air Force in 1965 with the rank of Colonel.He served both World War II and the Korean War and he was the recipient of many military decorations including the Legion of Merit.Prior to his retirement, he served from 1961 to 1965 with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Man-In-Space programs; specially, projects Mercury and Gemini and was the Director of the D.O.D. Operational and Support Planning Office to NASA. In this position he was also responsible for the preparation and administration of multi-million dollar budgets for the military support of these specific projects.Funeral arrangements by Fort Myers Memorial Gardens at 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, Florida. A viewing will be held on Friday, March 2, 2007 from 12:00 Noon to 2:00 PM. A Masonic Service at 2:00 PM.Following the service, Interment will be held at the Masonic Mausoleum at Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Araba Shriners Transportation Fund for Children.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, July 14, 1938--Sidney J. Warren, 75-year-old sawmill operator died early yesterday morning at the Lee Memorial hospital after suffering from a heart ailment for the past month. Coming to Fort Myers four years ago from Orlando, Mr. Warren lived at 25 Rhode Island avenue and operated a sawmill at Immokalee. He was active in Masonic work and was a member of the Ho-Ho Lumber society. Mr. Warren is survived by his wife, Mrs. Marjorie Warren, two daughters, Mrs. Cordelia W. Bush and Mrs. J. L. Grady of Tampa; two sons, Sidney J. and Joel A. of Fort Myers, and one brother, R. P. Elrod of Immokalee. Funeral services will be held at 4 o'clock this afternoon at the Spooner and Engelhardt chapel with the Rev. E. Rembert Guy officiating. The body will be taken to Orlando for interment.

Caloosa Belle, June 9, 2005-- Wilma Evelyn Warren, age 91, of Branford, passed away June 1, 2005, in Branford. She was born Jan. 8, 1914, in Fort Lauderdale to Harney Altman and Delia Frances Howell Altman.Survivors include her son: Leon H. Warren (Pat) of Port St. Lucie; daughters: Velma E. Carrington (Fred) of Branford and Laura Elizabeth Alford (Dean) of Branford; sister: Hazel Reynolds of New Bern, NC; grandchildren: Jeff Warren, Tammy Ballard, Charlie Warren, Brian Warren, Robert Tyler, Naith Veal, Caroline Hill, Tony Alford and Susan Flick; fifteen great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lonnie J. Warren, and sister, Edna Giese. Funeral services were held Saturday, June 4, at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle with Reverend John O'Bannon officiating. Interment followed at the Fort Denaud Cemetery in LaBelle. Akin-Davis funeral Home, LaBelle

Fort Myers News-Press, March 29, 2007-Betty June Warrick, 71, of Cape Coral passed away Monday March 26, 2007 at the Cape Coral Hospital. Born May 4, 1935 in Liggett, Kentucky to Jim and Sarah Pace. Betty graduated from the university of Michigan School of Nursing and was married to James Warrick in 1963. After moving to Cape Coral in 1977, Betty started her own business of caring for the elderly in her home, which she did until she retired in 2000. After her first husbands death in 1984, she was blessed to find love again and was married to Enoch E. Collins from 1987 until his passing in 2005. Betty's warm smile and generous love will be greatly missed. Betty is survived by her daughter Marni (Malcolm) Mason of Tallahassee, FL, stepchildren Michael (Michelle) Collins and Cindy Collins of N. Fort Myers, one brother Bill Pace of Virginia, three sisters Mary Thomas of Indiana, Geneva Yates of Illinois, and Norma Bunting of Michigan. Her grandchildren Joseph, Olivia, Joseph, Courtney, Sarah, and Christian. Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 PM Friday March 30, 2007 at the Metz Funeral Chapel with Pastor Don Strange officiating. Burial will follow at Lee Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit one hour prior to the service beginning at 12:00 PM. Arrangements by the Metz Chapel of Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Homes and Crematory, Cape Coral, 542-2134.

Fort Myers News-Press, Feb 26 2006 -- Rev. Vergie Mae O'Bannon Warriner was born March 10, 1909 in Dagonia, MO. She went to be with her Lord on Feb. 23, 2006 in Enterprise, AL. She is survived by her children; Frank (Joyce) Warriner of Pineola, NC, Ralph (Yvonne) Warriner of Lake Worth, Jerry (Sylvia) Warriner of Fort Myers, Wayne (Barbara) Warriner of Fort Myers, Eleanor (David) Piper of Enterprise, AL. She also leaves behind over one hundred grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren to cherish her memory. She was predeceased by her husband; Rev. Norman Warriner. Viewing will be held Sunday, February 26, 2006, 6-8 PM at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in Fort Myers. The funeral celebration will be held Monday, Feb. 27, 2006, 11 AM at the LaBelle Church of God with Pastor Chuck Smith officiating. Interment will follow in the Ft. Denaud Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press Jan 22,2009 Wayne Wilson Warriner, 71, of Fort Myers died after a valiant battle with cancer. He was born on February 16, 1937 to the late Rev. Norman W. and Vergie Mae O'Bannon Warriner in LaBelle, FL. He was preceded in death by a brother, Frank Warriner.Wayne was a 1955 graduate of Fort Myers High School where he was a captain of the football team and ran track. After graduation he served in the U.S. Air Force. Upon returning to Fort Myers, he married his wife of 48 years Barbara E. Griffin Warriner who survives him. Wayne worked in the automotive repair/tire business and was the owner/operator of Lee Auto Service Center in Lehigh Acres for 21 years.Dad loved to make people laugh and had the unique ability to make everyone feel special. He will be sorely missed by all.Also surviving are his children: Stephanie (Steve) Wiles, Charlton "Chocky" (Agnes) Warriner and Jodi (Michael) Constantine all of Fort Myers. "Poppy" had eight grandchildren whom he adored: Jeremy (Misty), Joshua, Jacob, Andrew, Zachary, Taylor Marie, Natalia and Ronan as well as two great-granddaughters Arlie and Jala.A memorial celebration will be held on Saturday January 24, 2009 at First Assembly of God, corner of Summerlin and Colonial at 11:00 AM with visitation one hour prior to the service. The Revs. David Yannatone and Chuck Smith officiating. In lieu of flowers the family requests that contributions be made to the Missions Dept. of First Assembly of God, Fort Myers or to Hope Hospice in Wayne's memory.

Caloosa Belle, January 20 2005 -- Beverly Suzanne Washburn Norheim passed away peacefully after a long illness on January 10, 2005, in Moorpark, CA. Beverly was born in Ft. Myers, on September 12, 1942, and she grew up in LaBelle. She moved to California in 1963 and retired from Pasadena City College in 2001. Beverly is survived by her husband: Lloyd Norheim; children: Lori (Dwyer) Hockwald of Salt Lake City, UT, Loma (Richard) Quinn of Simi Valley, CA, Ingrid (Ben) Hawthorn of Norway and Neil Norheim of Los Angeles, CA; grandchildren: Ingrid, Arthur and Walter; father: Lawrence Washburn Jr. of Ft. Myers; mother: Janet Ben-Kori of Charlotte NC; sisters: Patsy (Allen) Billo of Tampa, Sandra (Eli) Bush of Ft. Myers, Lisa (Jeff) Padgett of Jacksonville, Bunnie (Larry) Gast of Charlotte, NC; brother: Alex Ben-Kori of Denver, CO; many nieces and nephews and her cherished friends Joanne Conn and Scott and Valerie Plimpton of Simi Valley, CA. A memorial service was held January 14 at Mountain View Cemetery in Altadena, CA.

Caloosa Belle -- 18 Oct 2007 William Lorenzo Lawrence Washburn, Jr., age 90, of Cape Coral died at his home on Oct. 4, 2007.He was born in Lawrenceburg, Tenn., on Nov. 8, 1916 to Mary Lou Holland and William Lorenzo Washburn and returned to Ft Myers as an infant in 1916. He spent his life in Lee and Hendry counties. He retired from the Lee County Sheriff's Department in 1982.He is preceded in death by his grandmother Annie E. Hall, mother Mary Lou Holland and daughter Beverly Norheim. Surviving family members include daughters, Patsy Billo, Tampa, Sandy Bush, Cape Coral, Lisa (Jeff) Padgett, Bryceville; grandchildren, Rene' Bush, Cape Coral, Sonja (David) Lusk, Brandon, Don Bush, Cape Coral, James Billo (Anne), Tampa, Michael Billo, Tampa, Jason Nef (Luana), Jacksonville, Justin Padgett, Bryceville, Lori Hockwald (Dwyer), Utah, Loma (Richard) Quinn, California., Ingrid (Ben) Haworth, Norway, Niel (Betty) Norheim, California. Mr. Washburn also leaves behind a number of great-grandchildren including, Sonja Rene' and Christen Bush, Jesse, Molly and Shannon Billo, Zachary and Jeri Lyn Lusk, Walter and Trever Quinn, Arthur and Ingrid Hockwald. There will be no service. Donations to Hope Hospice will be greatly appreciated. Special thanks to the staff at Hope Hospice of North Ft Myers, especially to his cars caregiver Theila Rowe and nurses Pam Daya and Cindy Racz.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, Sept. 16, 1930--Funeral services for William R. Washburn, pioneer Fort Myers merchant and grove owner, were held yesterday at 4 pm in the Baptist church, the Rev. C. T. Tew officiating. A quartet composed of Mrs. Effie Winkler Henderson, Mrs. James Kellum, R. P. Ransom and E. T. Pepper sang several of Mr. Washburn's favorite hymns. Mrs. Henderson also sang a solo. Burial was at the Fort Myers cemetery with L. W. Engelhardt & Sons in charge of arrangements. Ball bearers were L. C. Stewart, W. W. Stone, Tom Evans, Ewald Stulpner, L. M. Stroup and Fraenk Kellow. Ceremonies at the cemetery were in charge of the Masonic lodge. Mr. Washburn had been a resident of Fort Myers for 42 years, coming here from Illinois. He was the founder of the Fort Myers Jewelry company.

Fort Myers News-Press July 10, 2009 Grace Gibbs Waters, age 83, of Fort Myers died on July 7, 2009 at HealthPark Medical Center. She was born in Fort Myers on January 2, 1926. Grace graduated from Fort Myers High in 1945 followed by a career in ladies wear. She and her husband owned the Hawaiian Shop on St. Armands Key and were supporters of the Shriners Hospital in Sarasota. She returned to Fort Myers in 1996 and participated in activities of the Class of 45.She was preceded in death by her parents Ida (Holt) and Frank Gibbs, and her husband, James Allen Waters of Sarasota. Her survivors include her son, James William Finger, Jr. of Fort Myers, her grand daughter, Melinda (Finger) Burriss, 2 great grand children, Mattison and Mason, and sisters-in-law Connie Walker and Lil Hamilton.A memorial service will be held Sunday, July 12 at 2:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Fort Myers, 1735 Jackson Street.

Fort Myers News-Press Dec 17, 2000 Joshua Brian Watford, 24, Ft. Myers, died Friday, December 15, 2000 in Ft. Myers. Brian was born April 8, 1976, the son of Sue Ellen Cater (FMHS 67) and Raymond E. Watford, Jr. He has been a resident of the Ft. Myers area since 1985 coming from Denver, CO. He graduated from Ft. Myers High School in 1994, was a former member of City of Ft. Myers Police Dept. Explorers, a member of City of Ft. Myers Police Auxiliary, and was manager of Ricochet's Night Club in Ft. Myers. He is survived by his mother, Sue Ellen Watford, Ft. Myers, father and step-mother, Raymond E. Jr. (Dianna) Watford, Mabelton, GA, sister, Katlyn Rae Watford, Mabelton, GA, maternal grandmother, Elsie Cater, Ft. Myers, paternal grandfather, Raymond E. Watford, Sr., Huntsville, AL, uncles and aunts; Richard (Linda) Cater, Anniston, AL, Don (Joy) Cater, Ft. Myers, LouAnn (Bill) Campbell, Marrietta, GA, and cousins; Amy, Beth, Emily, and Chip Campbell, Chad and Dennis Cater. Family will receive friends TODAY, from 6-8 p.m. and Monday from 12:00-1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Funeral service will be Monday, December 18, 2000 at 1:00 p.m. at the Harvey-Engelhardt Chapel, with Rev. Robert DeKlavon officiating. Interment will be at Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Ft. Myers. Arrangements by Harvey- Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd. 936- 2177.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, August 19, 1963 - Wilbur Carlton Watkins, 81, a resident of Alva for the past 50 years, died Sunday morning.     He was a Spanish American war veteran.  Surviving are his wife, Flora E. Watkins, Alva; son, John C. Watkins, Alva; daughters, Mrs. Juliette Speeringer, Gainesville, Mrs. Mary Ann Parish, Burnt Hill, N.Y., Mrs. Jean DeSimone, Tallahassee, sisters, Mrs. Agnes Croft and Miss Percy Watkins, both of Portland, Oregon, 18 grandchildren and one great grandchild.     Funeral service will be tomorrow at 2:30 p.m. at Alva Cemetery with Rev. Donald Rock officiating.  Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Dorothy Watkins

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Jan. 12, 1936-William "Bill" Watkins, 63-year-old fisherman, was killed shortly after midnight this morning between Punta Rassa and Iona when his Studebaker car turned over on McGregor boulevard and crushed the life out of his body. Watkins left Punta Rassa for Fort Myers at midnight and his friends when notified of the tragedy said that he must have been confused by heavy fog or had skidded on the wet highway. The overturned car was discovered by Roscoe McLane of Sanibel and he reported the accident to Sheriff Ben King. Other cars passing on the highway stopped but when the passengers rolled the car off of Watkins' body he was dead. Watkins is survived by his wife and a number of stepchildren, including John, Earl, Marvin and Luther Wiggins, and Mrs. Elmer Sweet. Watkins' body was brought to town by an Engelhardt ambulance and the car was hauled in by the Pete Ware wrecker service.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, July 17, 1936--Clint L. Watson, 63, died yesterday at his home on Franklin street after a long illness. He is survived by a brother, Clay Watson of French Gulch, Cal. Mr. Watson had made his home in Fort Myers for the past 15 years. Funeral services will be announced later.

Fort Myers News-Press--Jan 16, 2008 Frankie Louise Green Watson, 91, died in Astoria, Oregon December 22, 2007. Mrs. Watson was born in Fort Myers April 20, 1916. She lived in Florida for 89 years and Oregon for the last two years of her life. She was the daughter of Lee County pioneers Annie Leathlean Green and Frank Marion Green. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack C. Watson, a son, Ray s. Birdsong and five brothers and four sisters. Mrs. Watson is survived by two sons, Terry E. (Karen) Watson of Astoria, Oregon, Jack C. "Kippy" (Lisa) Watson of Big Pine Key, four grandsons, Scott (Paula) Birdsong of Loxahatchee, FL, Vincent Birdsong and Christopher Watson of Tallahassee, FL and Erin (Jean Marie) Watson of Palm Harbour, FL, a daughter-in-law, Veronica Birdsong of Loxahatchee Groves, FL and a sister, Joan Johnson of Astoria, Oregon. A memorial service will be held at a later date. "We laughed with her, we learned from her, we loved her and she loved us back."

Fort Myers News-Press Jun 21, 1998 Leona C. Scott Thornton Moore Watson was born in Fort Myers on August 24, 1926. She left this life on June 19, 1998. A native of Lee County and a ten-generation Floridian. Member of the Pioneer Club of Lee County. She was of the Baptist faith. Former owner and operator of J.V.'s Barbeque in North Fort Myers. She was preceded in death by her parents, James H. Scott and Ruth Curry Scott Williams. Also her husbands, Stuart H. Thornton, Nov. 27, 1991; J.V. Moore, Jr., Jan. 8, 1971; sister, Betty Jean Bass, Mar. 12, 1993. Survivors include her children, Carmeletta "Cookie" Anderson (Paul) of Sylvania, Ga., Randall C. "Randy" Moore (Penny) of North Fort Myers, Harry Stuart "Butch" Thornton (Camille) of North Fort Myers, J.V. "John" Moore III (Kathy) of Sylvania, Ga. Other survivors include her sisters, Kathleen Mason (W.H.) and Patricia Harrell of North Fort Myers; and a brother, Paul J. Scott (Virginia) of Fort Myers. She had eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren and many lo ved nieces, nephews, and cousins. Memorial services will be private.FMHS 1945

The News-Press, March 22, 2007 - Sally L. Watson, 75, of Alva, FL died on March 20, 2007 at Fort Myers, Florida. She was a native of Williamsport, PA and came to FL in 1947. Sally was a dedicated and loved Lee County School Bus driver for well over 30 years. She is survived by her three children, daughter June W. Elkins, sons R. Michael Watson, and R. Wayne Watson, 6 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, brothers, George Lunger Jr., John Lunger, sisters, Betty Drawdy, Alice Hershbuger, Phyllis Higginbotham, Nancy McDonald. Graveside services will be held Friday, March 23rd at 1 PM at Alva Cemetery. Family will receive friends tonight from 6-8 PM in the Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd., Fort Myers, FL. 239-694-4121.

Fort Myers News-Press-August 23, 2008- Francis "Frank" Leanus Watts, 77, of Fort Myers, Florida passed away August 21, 2008. He was born February 16, 1931 in Cresco, Iowa the son of Leanus and Anna (Cenek) Watts. He was a Staff Sgt. in the United States Air Force. He was a member of VFW Post 2444 since 1962, The Knights of Columbus, and The American Legion since 1965. He enjoyed cooking, gardening, football, Budweiser, as well as fish fry's with his friends. He leaves to cherish his loving memory, his beloved wife Kathleen Watts of Fort Myers, FL, daughter Teresa Watts of Fort Myers, FL, and 1 sister Darlene Watts Corporon of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He was pre-deceased by his parents and sister Kathryn Watts Jones.Visitation will be on Monday from 1-2 PM at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home with funeral services beginning at 2:00 PM. Burial will immediately follow in the Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Funeral arrangements under the direction of Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907.239-936-0555 www.fortmyersmemorial.com

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Saturday, July 22, 1999 - Grace Mildred Waugh quietly passed away Thursday morning, July 20, at Hospice House, she was 95. Born in Fort Myers on May 17, 1904 to Lavenia (Vennie) and Charlton T. Tooke. Mildred, as she was known by to her many friends was the granddaughter of one of Fort Myers first settlers, Manual Gonzalez. Mildred retired from the Lee County Tax Collector's Office in 1968. She volunteered countless hours to numerous charitable organizations and was most proud of her service to First United Methodist Church Alter Guild, Southwest Florida Historical Society, Pioneer Club, and Lee Memorial's Women's Auxiliary (Pink Lady). Mildred was preceded in death by her parents Charlton T. and Lavenia Tooke, brothers Seth (Violet) Tooke, Barney (Olive) Tooke, Charlton (Irene) Tooke, Jr., Jimmy (Floy) Tooke, and J.J. Tooke. Sisters, Evelyn (J.C.) McDevitt, Carabelle (Jack) Rice. Mildred is survived by sister, Adelyn Tooke, son and daughter-in-law, Charles S. and Jean K. Waugh, grandson and his family Steven L. and JoAnn, great-granddaughter, Casey L. Waugh, granddaughter and her family Jan E. and David A. great-granddaughter, Brittany L. and great-grandson Forrest W. Campbell. A Memorial Service will be held in her honor at St. Michael Lutheran Church at 1:30 p.m. Friday, July 23, 1999, at 3995 Broadway, Fort Myers, FL 33901. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Mildred's memory to the St. Michael Foundation, 3995 Broadway, Fort Myers, FL 33901.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-10-23 - Barbara Jean Way, age 78, of Punta Gorda, passed away October 21, 2004 in Lehigh Acres. She was born Jan. 18, 1926 in Lansing, MI. She had recently moved to Lehigh due to storm damage from hurricane Charley to her home in Punta Gorda, where she had lived for one year. She was a former, longtime resident of Lee County. Survivors include her children: Judy Janssen (Lamoine), Mission Hills, SD, Ricky Way (Rosemary), Punta Gorda, Dawn Mason (David), Alva and Connie Sempf (Billy), Hastings, MI, and daughter-in-law Liz Way, Bellevue, MI, fifteen grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren. Funeral Services will be Monday, October 25, 2004 3:00 PM at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in Ft. Myers with Pastor Kenny Cook officiating. Interment will follow at Alva Cemetery. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home, Ft. Myers.

THE FORT MYERS PRESS, Dec. 24, 1926--J. F.(Fred) Weatherford, a life long resident of Fort Myers died yesterday at Lee memorial hospital, following a short illness. Mr. Weatherford was a son of one of Lee county's pioneers who came to the then little village in the '60's. At the time of his death mr. Weatherford was conducting a successful community grocery on Alicia street. He is survived by his wife, his mother, Mrs. Estelle Weatherford, two brothers, Walter Weatherford of Fort Myers and J. L. Weatherford of Miami; two sisters, Mrs. Julia Fraser of New Port Richey and Mrs. L. L. Wadford of Largo, Fla.

Ft. Myers, Tuesday, Jan. 16, 1962 - Funeral services for Walter Weatherford will be held today at 2 pm at leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Rev. Thomas Craigie Smart and Rev. A. P. Minshew officiating. Pallbearers will be: Tom Burdett, Howard Rogers, Vernon Maxey, Russell Williams, Barney DeLoach, and Harry R. Shadderck. Honorary Pallbearers will be Lewis Stewart, G. B. Page, Flanders Thompson, Dr. Ernest Bostelman, Virgil Harris, and Tom Fink. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.

Dr. Cleo Earl Weaver

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Jan. 20, 1955 - Edna M. Weaver, 70, a resident of North Fort Myers for the past 30 years, died yesterday. Surviving are her husand, Scott Weaver Sr., a son, Scott Weaver Jr., two brothers, Daniel Eikenberry, Columbus, Ohio, and Loren Eikenberry, Greenfield, Ind.; and a sister, Mrs. Roxie Woody, Russiaville, Ind. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Friday, May 26, 1978 Pearl Hendry Weaver, 84, formerly of LaBelle, died Thursday in Gainesville. She moved to Gainesville 10 years ago from LaBelle. She was the widow of Dr. Cleo E. Weaver, who died in 1952.She was a member of thw Carlson Memorial Methodist Church in LaBelle. She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Nell Weaver Coleman of Gainesville; two brothers, Raymond Hendry of Fayetteville, N.C., and Ralph Hendry of Immokalele; one sister, Mrs. Julia Hendry Magill of Tampa, 8 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Funeral service will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. at graveside in Fort Myers Cemetery wihth the Rev. Don Kokomoor officiating. The family will receive friends at the cemetery on Saturday from 1:30 until 2 p.m. Williams-Thomas Funeral Home in Gainesville is in charge of arrangements.

Fort Myers News-Press, Dec 28 2004-- Mrs. Eddie Lee Battles Webb, 90, passed peacefully from this life on December 15, 2004, with her daughter Annie Laura Ashley at her bedside in San Bernardino, CA. She was born Eddie Lee Battle, November 14, 1914 in Macon, Georgia, to the late Joseph and Lettie Battle, the seventh of eleven children. She was a retired career registered professional nurse in New York City where she worked and resided for over 60 years. Mrs. Webb spent the majority of her childhood and retirement years in Fort Myers, Florida having graduated from both Williams Elementary and Dunbar High School. She received the degrees of Bachelors of Science (Nursing) and Bachelors of Arts (Sociology) from The City University of New York. She was married to the late Arnold Webb who preceded her in death. Mrs. Webb was a faithful member of the Church of Christ where she was a fervent advocate and mentor to youth and their education. She leaves to mourn her passing her only child, Annie Laura Ashley and husband Clarence of San Bernardino, California; one sister, Nettie Jewel Sturges of New York City, New York; four grandsons, Arnold Ashley and wife Dianne of Olney, Maryland; Craig B. Ashley and wife Gricelda of Hawthorne, California; Michael Ashley of Los Angeles, California; Randy L. Ashley and wife Wanda of San Bernardino, California; one granddaughter Sherry Ann (Ashley) Gilliam and husband John of Rancho Cucamonga, California; nine great-grandsons, Aaron Bryant, London Ashley, Daniel Ashley, Styce Ashley, Marcus Ashley, John Gilliam IV, Kameron Ashley and Kaleb Ashley; two great-granddaughters, Whitney Ashley and Darnique Ashley; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, and friends. Visitation will be held Wednesday, December 29, 2004, at the Hickson Funeral Home, 2530 Highland Avenue, Fort Myers, Florida, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Funeral Services will be held at the Church of Christ, 1827 Veronica Shoemaker Avenue, Fort Myers, Florida, on Thursday, December 30, 2004, at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be at Calvary Gardens in Fort Myers, Florida.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Sept. 25, 1938--Funeral services for George Webber, sr., 64-year-old retired department store buyer, will be held at 5 o'clock this afternoon at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel with the Rev. William Graham Kennedy officiating. The body will be taken to Webber's former home in Chicago, Ill., for burial at the Mont Rose cemetery. Mr. Webber died yesterday at his home on Fowler street after a short illness. He had lived here for 12 years and had a wide circle of friends. He is survived by a son, George Webber, jr., of New Jersey. Employed by Carson, Pirie & Scott of Chicago. Mr. Webber was the first American buyer to enter Germany after the world war.

Ft Myers News-Press, 2004-08-28 -- Nicole June Webster, 22, of Cape Coral, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, August 24, 2004 in Ft. Myers, Florida. She was born August 31, 1981 in Buffalo, Oklahoma. She attended Edison Community College working towards her Law degree. She was evolved in the Guardian Ad Litum for Children. Nicole will be joining her grandfather, Earl Webster and dear friend Christina Wilson. She is survived by her mother, Teresa June Webster; father, Earl and his wife Karen Webster; brothers, Cody Webster of Cape Coral, Earl III, Jonathan, Jordan Joshua, and little sister, Kaleigh are from Protection, KS. She will leave behind her precious dog, Kismet. Nicole will be missed and loved by all who may have known her. Funeral service will be conducted on Saturday, August 28, 2004 at 6:00 PM at the Harvey-Engelhardt Chapel, 1600 Colonial Blvd., and Ft. Myers. Family will receive friends from 3-6 PM at the Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press,Dec 19, 2004-- Millard "Skip" Filmore Weddel, 84, a resident of Lehigh Acres since 1960 passed away Friday December 17, 2004 after battling a brief illness. Skip was born in Redondo Beach, California. He moved to Ft. Myers in 1960 from Indianapolis, IN. Skip was a veteran of WWII, Korean War-Navy Department and the merchant Marines. Retired from the Post Office after 20 years, he coached football for the Ft. Myers City League & Pop Warner League. Skip was also co-owner of Rosie's Kitchen and an avid sailor. He is survived by his wife Helen (Flint) Weddel of 31 years; his mother-in-law, Ida May Flint, his daughter; Sherry (Tim) Hurley, sons, Michael (Eileen) Weddel, Robert Weddel, Gerald (Maggie) Mount, Brian (Rosie) Mount, step-daughter, Mary Breeyear, and his sister, Thelma Freeart of Denver, CO; six grandchildren, Joshua, Jeremy, Joel, Dillian, Shawn and Elizabeth, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Candice Weddel. Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home, 12777 State Rd. 82.

Caloosa Belle, Feb 6 2005-- Harriet Dorothy Burns Weeks, 88, of Moore Haven, passed away at Grace Health Care of Clewiston on Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2005. The only child of Harry and Regina Burns, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she had resided in Moore Haven since 1942. She was a graduate of both Salisbury State Teacher's College in Salisbury Maryland, and Florida Southern College, in Lakeland. For many years, she was an elementary school teacher in Hendry County, Glades County, and Polk Elementary in Lake Wales. After her retirement, she enjoyed growing roses, tending to her yard, and raising Persian cats. She was preceded in death by her husband, Roger M. Weeks and son Rodney K. Weeks. She is survived by one daughter, Robin Weeks. It was her wish to be cremated. Donations may be made to her church, First United Methodist Church of Moore Haven.

THE COLLIER COUNTY NEWS, April 24, 1924--The body of John Weeks, who died Monday, at the home of his son-in-law, Sam williams, in East Fort Myers, was taken to Naples yesterday for burial. Mr. Weeks was 72 years of age. He leaves a widow and several children. His home was in Naples, but he and his wife had been living with Sam Williams of East Fort Myers since the death of their daughter, Mrs. Sam Williams, several years ago.

Caloosa Belle, 27 Sep 2005-- Robin Weeks, age 57 of Lakeport passed away Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2005 at Raulerson Hospital in Okeechobee. Robin was born December 8, 1947 at Moore Haven to the late Roger Martin and Harriet "Burns" Weeks.Ms. Weeks graduated from the University of Georgia with a B.A. in Business. She was within weeks of receiving her Master's Degree from the University of North Dakota when her father passed away. She returned home to work in the family business and in 1996 established the Weeks Cattle Company with her mother Harriet B. Weeks producing some of the states finest Brangus cattle.Robin was preceded in death by her father, Roger M. Weeks, mother Harriet B. Weeks and brother Rodney Weeks all of Moore Haven.Robin's many acquaintances shall truly miss the remarkable woman. Cremation arrangements with burial at Ortona Cemetery under the direction of the Akin Davis Funeral Home-Clewiston Chapel.

The News-Press, 1/10/2009--Stanley Weeks, 97, of Fort Myers died Wednesday January 7, 2009. Formerly of Purchase, New York he had resided here for the past 36 years and was a member of the Masonic Lodge #367 F&AM of Cape Coral. Stanley is survived by his son, Stanley H. Weeks, 2 sisters, Hazel Taversano, Marge Pugliano, 2 grandchildren, Scott Weeks, Todd (Angela) Weeks, and 2 great grandchildren, Matthew and Marc Weeks. Funeral services will be held Monday January 12, 2009 at 11:00 AM at Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time at the funeral home. Lee Memorial Park, 334-4880.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-11-07 - William B. "Buck" Weeks, Sr., of Ft. Myers, passed away October 26, 2004. He was born Sept. 26, 1936 in Estero and was employed by Krehling Industries as employment sales/job coordinator. William & Rose were married for 48 yrs, they had known each other for a lifetime. He loved his dogs, Karl, Rosie, Sherry and Birdie and they miss him alot. He loved his grandson Antonio and was proud of his Tae-Kwon-Do achievement. We love him very much & will miss him till we see him again. We all love you. He was a great husband, Daddy & grandfather. William is survived by his wife Rose D., son William B. Weeks Jr. (Bill), daughter Pamela R. Weeks (Pamie) grandson Antonio Joseph Weeks, best friends Robert Horne of Estero, Dr. & Mrs. Dana & Julia Killam of N. Ft. Myers.

The News-Press, 8/3/2008-- James Wegman, 73, of Cape Coral, died Wednesday, July 30, 2008 in Cape Coral, FL. He was born June 27, 1935 to his parents, Oliver and Eleanor (nee; Tahsler) Wegman in Columbus, Ohio. Serving honorably in U.S. Navy and serving 30 years with Ford Motor Company as a supervisor, James retired to Cape Coral in 1980 from Lakewood, OH. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Ann Wegman; children, James (Mercedes) Wegman, John (Patricia) Wegman, Leanor (John) Sciullo, Diane (Joseph) Giardina, and David Wegman; brother, George (JoAnne) Wegman; 11 grandchildren, Jeff, Candace, Crystal, Christy, Danielle, John, Angela, John, Julia, Vincent, and Joey; 1 great grandchild Jasmine. Graveside Serivce will be conducted on Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at 10:00 A.M. at Lee Memorial Park Cemetery, 12777 State Road 82, Lehigh Acres. Fuller - Cape Coral Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements, 542-3161.

Fort Myers News-Press, Jan 26 2005-- Nell Colcord Weidenbach, 87, of Port Charlotte passed away January 21, 2005 at Tampa General Hospital. She was born August 31, 1917 in Ft. Myers, FL where her family has lived since 1900. She was an alumni of the University of Florida with additional studies at Florida State College for Women and University of Miami. She was an elementary teacher in the public schools of Boca Grande, Ft. Myers and Miami. She was a freelance writer and member of the National League of American Pen Women, with numerous magazine publications plus several books; she was also a Florida historian. Nell is survived by her sons; Ronald (Estralita) and Michael of Hawaii, 3 grandchildren Joseph, Mariah, Mikia, sister Alberta (Clarence) Barnes of Ft. Myers and her cousins Thomas and Esther Colcord also of Ft. Myers. Nell was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years Joseph. A memorial service will be held on Friday January 28, 2005 at 10:30 AM at Kays-Ponger Funeral Home, 2405 Harbor Blvd., Port Charlotte, FL. Interment in private. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Lutheran Church of the Cross music department, 2300 Luther Road, Port Charlotte, FL 33980, Charlotte County Habit for Humanity, PO Box 496088, Port Charlotte, FL 33949 or The Salvation Army, PO Box 495126, Port Charlotte, FL 33949. Arrangements are by Kays-Ponger Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Port Charlotte, FL.

Ft Myers News-Press, June 19, 2001 - Charles Weiss, 94, of Lehigh Acres, died June 17, 2001 under the loving care of Shady Rest Care Pavilion of Fort Myers. He was born Nov. 23, 1906 in New York, NY. He moved to Lehigh Acres in 1974.He was preceded in death by his wife Helen, one brother, and four sisters. He is survived by his daughter, Helen (Walter) Maidhof of Lehigh Acres, FL and son George (Ann) Weiss of Hampton, VA; grandchildren, Gary (Charlotte) Maidhof, of Inverness, FL, Michael Weiss of Hampton, VA, John (Donna) Weiss of Tenn, Kristine Perez, of Lehigh Acres, FL, Deborah (John) Noonan of Chesapeake, VA, and Thomas (Mira) Weiss of Germany and by eleven great-grandchildren Ian, Michael Ian, Anthony, Aaron, John Alan, Tiffany, David, Leah, Jesse, Steven, and Sean and many nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends on Thursday 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. at the Farley memorial Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday in the funeral home chapel with the Pastor Art Bliese officiating. Entombment will be at Lee Memorial Park. The family requests that

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-11-10 = Ann Welch, age 70, of Ft. Myers died on Sunday, November 7, 2004 at the Lee Memorial Health Systems, Health Park. Born on July 20, 1934 in Cross City, FL to William (Woodard) and Myrtle Welch, Ann has been a resident of Ft. Myers for the past 40 years. Ann graduated in 1952 from high school in North Augusta, SC and was the owner of Ann Foster Interiors, Ft. Myers from 1968 to 1975. She had previously worked in her parent's business, Welch's Interiors in Ft. Myers for many years and had attended the Methodist Church in Estero where she sang in the choir. She is survived by her daughters, Constance E. (Darrell) Horne of N. Ft. Myers and Minerva C. Boyd of Ft. Myers, her grandsons, Jeremy, Nicholas and John Miller, Lucas and Tyler Boyd, her father, Woodard Welch of Jacksonville, her brothers, Bill Welch of Jacksonville, Bob Welch and Jim Welch both of Ft. Myers, her sisters, Sybil Lazarus of Jacksonville, Peggy Griffin of Montgomery, AL, Brenda Howell of Cummings, GA and Linda Flatley of Ft. Myers. She was the daughter of the late Myrtle Bludworth Welch who died in 2001. A funeral service will be conducted in the Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd. . Interment will follow in the Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens.

Fort Myers News Press , April 23, 1949 -- Mrs. Martha Welch, Pioneer, Dies Here ! Mrs. Martha Ellen Welch, 75, pioneer Lee County resident, died last night at Lee Memorial Hospital after an illness of several years. Mrs. Welch lived here at 2815 Rose Avenue. She came to Fort Myers 70 years ago from Savannah, Ga. Her husband, William David Welch, died 26 years ago. Surviving are three daughters, Mrs. W. F. White, Norfolk, Va.; Mrs. Perry Prevatt, and Mrs. George Sipes, Fort Myers; and two sons, W. H. Tucker and William Brecht Welch, Fort Myers. There are 13 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are in charge of the Leo Engelhardt Funeral Home. Services will be announced later. Mrs. Welch was a member of the First Baptist Church. Fort Myers News Press April 24, 1949 Funerals Martha E. Welch Funeral services for Mrs. Martha E. Welch will be held today at 3 pm at the Leo W. Engelhardt funeral home with the Rev. Guy Owens officiating. Pallbearers will be Buck Armeda, Frank Carson, Snag Thompson, Abe Skinner, Charles Moore and Guy Strayhorn. Honorary bearers will be Harry McWhorter, Bill Stewart, Dr. Ernest Bostleman, Percy Jones and J. J. Whitaker. Interment will be in the family lot in the Fort Myers cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Jan. 31, 1938--Perry L. Welch, 30-year-old Florida Power and Light Co. employer, died last night of pneumonia after a four-day illness. He is survived by his widow,Mrs. Nena Welch, his mother, Mrs. M. E. Welch, three sisters, Mrs. Gerald Jones of Miami, Mrs. Frank Cleveland and Mrs. Mary Langford of Fort Myers and two brothers, Brecht Welch and W. H. Tucker of Fort Myers. Mr. Welch had been employed by the Florida Power and Light Co. for more than 10 years. Funeral arrangements will be in charge of Lawrence A. Powell.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, July 28, 1955 - Richard Lee Welch Jr., who served as a rural mail carrier here for 27 years, died yesterday at his home on Canal Street. He was 61 years old. Born in South Carolina, he moved here with his family in 1907. During his 48 years in Lee County, he seldom missed a few days, or weeks, in the woods during the hunting season. Recently he had been a salesman for the Conger Life Insurance Company. He was a member of the First Baptist Church. Surviving are his wife, Ollie B. Welch; daughter, Mrs. H. E. Smith; a son, Richard L. Welch III; sisters, Mrs. Harry K. Davison, Mrs. J. L. Randall, Mrs. J. H. Strong, Mrs. Robert K. Pepper, Mrs. Laura Glawson, all of Fort Myers and Major Mildred V. Welch, of Ft. McCellan, Ala.; two brothers, Oscar L. Welch, Guam, and George Welch, Fort Myers, and 4 grandchildren. Funeral services will be held today at 4 p.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Rev. Jim Lewis officiating. Pallbearers will be J. C. Northcutt, Albert B. Sumner, Kimball Davidson, A. L. Wight, Paul Harley and Glenn Lassiter. Honorary bearers will be Gilmore Fouts, Oscar Sheets, Alva Reynolds, Wayne Lewis, George Wheaton, Ralph McWilliams, Morris McWilliams and Leslie Sheets. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press Mar 7, 2000 Richard Lee Welch, III, 79, of Fort Myers, passed away March 5, 2000, at Hope Hospice House. He was born in Fort Myers and was a lifetime resident. Mr. Welch was a veteran of WWII where he served in the 100th Division Marching Band. He was retired from the Fort Myers Housing Authority. Mr. Welch was a member of McGregor Baptist Church and a 32nd Degree Mason, member of Tropical Lodge 56. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Elinor; son, Richard IV (FMHS 1962) of Tampa; daughter, Shirley (Robert) Rentz (FMHS 1965); grandson, Richard (Lori) Welch V; granddaughters, Tricia (Jay) Grout and Michelle Rentz, and great-grandson, Tanner Grout, all of Fort Myers. He was predeceased by his father Richard Welch Jr., mother, Ollie B. Welch and sister Audrey Faye Welch Smith (FMHS 1943). Funeral services will be held at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens on Wednesday, March 8, at 2:00 p.m. Family will receive friends one hour before service. Masonic services will be accorded at the graveside at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Cir., Fort Myers 33908.

Fort Myers News-Press Jan 2, 1998 Robert Blake Welch, 16, of Fort Myers, died Wednesday, December 31, 1997, due to a boating accident. He was a Junior at Fort Myers Senior High, where he was on the Golf Team and was an Honors Student. He is survived by his mother, Linda L. Welch; father, Robert E. (Lin) Welch; brothers, Robert Brent Welch and Veazy Walker; sisters, Kelie Welch Hedrick and Vicki Walker; maternal grandparents, Stanley and Constance Walker; paternal grandparents, Woodard and Myrtle Welch; paternal great-grandmother, Elizabeth C. Norris; nieces, McKenzie Hedrick and Kelci Walker; nephew, Gavin Hedrick; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 3, 1998, at 10:00 a.m. at First Assembly of God on Summerlin Road, with interment to follow at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. The family will receive friends TONIGHT from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press, 5 Apr 2005--Robert Wheeler Welch, 59, of Ft. Myers, passed away Saturday April 2, 2005 at Ft. Myers. He is survived by his two sons; Robert Jr. and Bryan Welch, his daughter Lanie Welch Gooch, his two grandchildren Caleb, and Savannah, his sister Sherri Westberry, his grandmother Pauline Jobe, his fiance's Sally Saberton, his aunts and uncles Glenn and Linnie Cary, Joe and Susan McClure. He is also survived by many loving family members and friends. Graveside funeral services will be 11:00 AM Thursday April 7, 2005 in the City of Ft. Myers Cemetery with Hope Hospice Chaplain Jeff Trees officiating. Anderson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, April 11, 1929--Fred Wells, 40, a member of the Koreshan Unity, was still hovering between life and death last night as the result of serious internal injuries received Tuesday night when he was attacked by a large bull he was feeding. The bull had recently been dehorned, but he butted Wells with his stumps, causing several broken ribs, which penetrated the man's lungs. Physicians who are attending the injured man at Estero could not be reached for a statement as to his condition last night, but friends expressed grave apprehension for his recovery. Wells had been in charge of the Unity's cattle for many years.--April 12, 1929--Funeral services were held at Estero yerterday for Fred Wells, 49-year-old cow herder for the Koreshan Unity, who died early yesterday morning from the effects of an attack by a dehorned bull which he had been feeding. Wells sustained several broken ribs which penetrated his lungs, and Dr. F. K. Armstrong, who attended him, described his condition as hopeless from the first.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, Tuesday, April 23, 1929--An infant son of Mr. and Mrs. J. G. Wells died early Sunday and was buried in the afternoon at the Fort Myers cemetery

Fort Myers News-Press--Feb 3, 2009 Mr. Walter R. Wentzel, 90, of Fort Myers, FL was called home to be with our Lord on January 30, 2009, where he was reunited with his loving wife, Cora Jean of 58 years. He was born August 10, 1918 in Youngstown, OH the son of Stanley and Mary Wentzel. Walter was a WWII Veteran of the U.S. Army stationed in the Philippines. On December 13, 1947 he married Cora Jean Roberts in Youngstown, OH. They moved to Fort Myers in 1948. He was a self employed residential carpenter. Walter loved salt water fishing and spent most of his weekends with family and friends at their fish camp around Two Pine in Matlacha Pass. For 50 years, Walter and Cora Jean spent their summer months at their family mountain home in Cullowhee, NC. Walter built every house he and Cora Jean lived in. He always had a project going, as soon as one would finish he'd already have a new one lined up. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were his greatest joy. His home was always the gathering place for the many family celebrations on holidays and weekends. Walter is lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his daughter, Susan (Everett) Jordan; his son, Chuck (Judy) Wentzel; five grandchildren, Cathy (Rick) Yelvington, David (Windie) Jordan; Brenda (Todd) Shepard; Laura (Josh) Berger and Chip Wentzel; ten great-grandchildren, Lane, Hunter, McKenzie, Ty, Cole, Tracy, Nicholas, Jacob, Elizabeth and Lorelei and many other extended family and friends. Friends will be received on Wednesday, February 4, 2009, 6-8 P.M. and Thursday, February 5, 2009, 1-2 P.M. with a chapel service at 2 P.M. Burial will follow in the Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery.Arrangements entrusted to Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907.

Fort Myers News-Press, Mar 8 2005-- Clemens A. Werner, formerly of Davenport died february 22, 2005 in Ft. Myers, Florida. A memorial service will be held May 14, at the Sanibel Congregational Church in Florida and a reception will be held June 11 in Davenport, Iowa. Clem was born April 3, 1914 in Walcott, Iowa, the son of Ernest and Anna Riessen Werner. He graduated from Davenport High School and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree and law degree from Northwestern University. Clem served in the US Army during World War II where he acheived the rank of Captain. The 11th Armored Division in which he was a member participated in the Battle of the Bulge. He received a number of commendations from the French and US governments including the Bronze Star from the US Government. Prior to deployment in the European Theatre, he met and married Jane Ellithorp of Canajoharie, New York. Following WWII, Clem and Jane moved to Davenport, Iowa where they their three children: Susan, Clemens A. Jr. (Cal) and Ann. After WWII, Clem was an assistant county attorney and then in private practice for over sixty years. He was a Partner in the firms of Jebens, Butenschoen and Werner; Hoesch, Werner and Harbeck, and for 25 years with his son at Werner and Werner. The last 5 years he has served Of Counsel with the firm of Bittner, Lambert & Werner. He was an organizer of the United World Federalists which believed in World Peace through world law. He ran for Mayor of Davenport in 1954. lem was instrumental in establishing, securing funding and finding a permanent home at the Annie Wittenmeyer complex for Davenport's Junior Theatre. He also helped establish and served for many years as President of the Broadway Theatre League. He was actvie for many years in the Boy Scouts, serving as scoutmaster for several years and received the Silver Beaver award in recognition of more than 25 years of service from the Iowa Council Boy Scouts of America. He was founder of the Davenport Toastmasters Club. He was a past commander of the Walcott American Legion Post. He also was a past President of the Scott County Bar Association and of the Scott County Banker's Association.He loved to speak. In 1930 while still in high school he gave the Gettysburg Address on Memorial Day and he repeated the event 60 years later from memory at the Walcott Iowa Cemetery. Since 1949 Clem has been involved with Walcott Trust and Savings Bank in Walcott, Iowa. He has served as Director, President and most recently, Chairman of the Board of Directors. In 1998, Clem and Jane established the Clem and Jane Werner Scholarship Fund, with the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend. Scholarships are awarded annually to graduating Davenport area high school seniors to assist in post high school educational expense. In recent years Clem donated land to the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation the sale of which was used to assist in the expansion of Nahant Marsh in Davenport. He also has been an active supporter of the German American Heritage Center in Davenport. Clem and Jane have lived in Sanibel, Florida for over 15 years where thay also have participated in contributing to organizations which enhance and protect Florida's natural resources. Clem was a generous and gregarious man who maintained a magnificent sense of humor and terrific wit throughout his life. He had a remarkable ability to communicate with people and had fun with life, no matter what the circumstances. Survivors include his wife, Jane, his three children: Susan Thoresen and her husband A. Robert of Portsmouth, New Hampshire; Clemens (Cal) Werner, Jr. and his wife, Jill of Bettendorf, Iowa; Ann Werner and her husband Terry Dibble of Corvallis, Oregon; his two grandchildren: Kristin Swartzendruber and her husband John of Dover, New Hampshire, and Erik Thoresen of New York City; and his great grandson Jackson Clemens Swartzendruber. Memorial gifts may be made to the Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge, Sanibel, Florida, San Cap Conservation, Sanibel, Florida or Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, Sanibel, Florida.

Fort Myers News-Press--4 Oct 2007 Coleen J. Wert went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, September 30, 2007, one day after her 87th birthday. Coleen had suffered the last 6 years with several debilitating illnesses. Bobbie Coleen Jones Wert was born September 29, 1920, in Camilla, Georgia to James Robert (died May 18, 1920) and Belle Harrell Jones. Coleen was the youngest of 6 children. In 1926, Coleen, with her widowed mother and brother Stanley, moved to Fort Myers to join her two older brothers, Harrell and Edison who were already living her with relatives, the Braden family. Belle Jones had accepted a teaching position at Edgewood Elementary and later taught at Fort Myers Junior High and Tice Elementary. Coleen attended Edgewood Elementary, Fort Myers Junior High and graduated from Fort Myers High School with the class of 1938. In 1942, Coleen graduated with honors from Bessie Tift College in Forsyth, GA and returned to Fort Myers where she taught English at Fort Myers High School for four years. In 1946, Coleen became a social worker with the State Department of Public Welfare (now Children and Family Services). She worked in Lee, Hendry and Collier Counties. Coleen retired in 1979 as Supervisor of Foster Care and Adoptions in Lee County. Coleen Jones and J. Earl Wert Jr. were married January 27, 1952, in Fort Myers. Earl died February 6, 1995, just a few days after their 43rd anniversary. Coleen loved the Lord and The First Baptist Church of Fort Myers, where she was an active member for over 70 years. During these years she was a Sunday School teacher, missions leader, volunteer at the Soup Kitchen, member of Senior Adult Group, volunteer in the church Activities Center and for 35 years helped in the baby nursery. Although the young people who grew up in the church may not remember Mrs. Wert, she loved and cared for them at the church when they were infants. Coleen is survived by son, James E. (Jane) Wert of Fort Myers, grandchildren Rebecca R. Wert of Tallahassee and John Andrew Wert of Fort Myers, son Jack D. Wert (Ed Price) of Fort Myers and brother Stanley (Nadine) Jones of Punta Gorda. Supportive, concerned and caring describes her extended family: sisters-in-law Lorraine Wert (Fran) DeVoll of Federal Way, Washington, and Mary Ann Wert (Joe) Kulo of Fort Myers, nephews David (Gerry) Jones of Tellico Plains, TN; Walter (Anne) Jones of Corvallis, OR; Lee (Jeaneen) Willingham of Forsyth, GA; Richard (Jean) Jones of Montgomery City, MO; Robert Jones of Perry, FL; Dr. Michael Jones of Bethesda, MD; Keith Jones of Indian, AK; Les (Cyd) Jones of Estero, Michael (Harriet Selkowitz) DeVoll of Richmond, VA; and J. Mark Kulo of Fort Myers; nieces, Nancy Ann Jones Clark (Ken) of Tallahassee and Celeste Willingham Clotfelter (Inmann) of Cartersville, GA. There are so many great nephews and nieces, and many great-great nephews and nieces. Coleen is survived by many cousins in Florida and Georgia including Carolyn Barden Smith of Port Charlotte. Coleen is also survived by many loving and caring lifelong friends. Coleen was predeceased by her parents, husband, in-laws, a sister, three brothers, three sisters-in-law, one brother-in-law, several close cousins and much loved niece, Carole Jones Pankow. The family would especially like to thank Coleen's caregiver of the past 21 months, Marleen McCoy. The family would also like to thank Shady Rest Nursing Pavilion and Hope Hospice for their compassionate care of Coleen in her final weeks. Visitation will be held at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, Friday, Oct. 5th from 4-7 PM. A private family burial service will be held at the convenience of the family. A memorial service honoring Coleen's life will be held at First Baptist Church of Fort Myers, Second and Jackson Sts. at 4 PM on Saturday, Oct. 6th with Dr. Winford Hendrix of First Baptist and Rev. Ted Althouse of Cypress Cove Chapel officiating. Coleen requested in lieu of flowers to make contributions to First Baptist Church of Fort Myers, 1735 Jackson St., Fort Myers, FL 33901 or Hope Hospice of Southwest Florida, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, 33908 or your favorite charity. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, Dec. 27, 1927--Christmas brought sorrow to three Fort Myers families when Mrs. Alma C. West, J. F. Allred and A. W. Igleheart died early Sunday morning all within a few hours...Mrs. West was found dead in bed by her son Franklin who went to her room to see why she did not go to the midnight services at St. Luke's church which she had planned to attend. She had retired earlier in the evening apparently in good health. Dr. Bostelman, who was called, attributed her death to heart failure. Mrs. West was the wife of Circuit Judge Thomas F. West of Pensacola, a former member of the state supreme court and prominent Florida jurist. She came here in 1926 to make her home with her son, Franklin West, Fort Myers attorney. Mrs. West, who was 49 years old, was a native of Madison, Fla. She is survived by her husband and son and two daughters, Mrs. Joseph Maharrey of Fort Myers and Mrs. Frank W. Berry of Tallahassee. Mrs. West was active in Fort Myers club work. She was a member of the Eastern Star, the U.D.C. and the Woman's club. Mrs. West's funeral will be held this morning at 10 o'clock by the Rev. F. A. Shore of St. Luke's Episcopal church of which she was a member. Honorary pallbearers will be: Frank C. Alderman, c. C. Pursley, Jim C. Clements, J. F. Garner and W. A. Sheppard, jr. Active pallbearers will be Capt. Nick Armeda, S. Watt Lawler, R. A. Henderson, jr., J. S. Gillentine, J. W. Maharrey and James A. Calderhead. Burial will be in the Fort Myers cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, April 19, 1935--Mrs. Rachel Westbrook, 45-year-old wife of J. C. Westbrook, died yesterday morning at their home at 1927 El Paso avenue. She had been ill for the past six months and recently returned from Tampa where she had gone for treatment. In addition to her husband, Mrs. Westbrook is survived by a son, J. C., jr., three sisters, Mrs. Poston of Arcadia, Mrs. Olliphant, jr. of Bartow, Mrs. Pullen of Nashville, Tenn., and one brother, H. P. McRory of Wauchula. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 o'clock this morning at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel on First street. Rev. J. F. Bell of the First Methodist church will officiate. After the services, the remains will be taken to Bartow for burial

Fort Myers News Press, Dec 28 2004-- Jacob (Jack) and Carol Westerhof died together in Sheboygan County where their private plane crashed due to a mechanical failure on Christmas Day, 2004. Jack and Carol were high school sweethearts who were married on June 8, 1963 in Oaklawn, IL after graduating from Chicago Christian High School in 1961 and 1962. Their three children were born in Chicago Ridge, IL and they later moved to Manitowoc in 1973 when they purchased Rummele's Jewelry Store. The couple worked together in their jewelry business for more than 25 years until they retired to Pine Island, FL in 2000. Jack and Carol were not your typical retirees. They eagerly took full responsibility for vacationing alone with their nine grandchildren to their cottage in Hayward, WI and their home in Florida. Jack was a very accomplished private pilot of 35 years achieving his Airline Transport Pilot rating and logging over 4500 flight hours. Carol was a very talented musician who played piano and organ and regularly shared her talents in church. Her wonderful sense of style could be seen in her display windows at the jewelry store. Jack and Carol had a large circle of friends at their residences in Hayward, WI, Scottsdale, AZ, Pine Island, FL, and Manitowoc, WI. Most important to them were family. Survivors include their three children and nine grandchildren: Julie and David Pahmeier of Manitowoc, along with their children Jenni, Steve, Liz, and Matt; Cari Westerhof of Wausau, WI and her children Katie and Lindy Hoida; Jacob (Jake) and Kathy Westerhof of McFarland, WI and their children, Jacob (Jack), Mitchell, and William; Carol's parents, Arnold and Anjean (Iwena) Bandstra; Carol's sisters and brothers-in-law, Arlene and Jim Achterhof, Palos Park, IL, Barbara and Leon Van de Creek, Beaver Creek, OH, Donna and Rob Thomsen, Leesburg, FL; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Arnold and Therese Bandstra, Winfield, IL, Barry and Deb Bandstra, Holland, MI; Jack's brother and sister-in-law, Paul and Marilyn Westerhof, Tinley Park, IL; one sister and brother-in-law, Judy and Pete Schipma, Lemont, IL. They are also survived by beloved nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. They are preceded in death by Jack's parents Jacob (Jake) and Ann Westerhof. Funeral services for the couple will be held on Thursday, December 30, 2004, 11:00 a.m. at Salem Ebenezer Reformed Church, Newton. Officiating at the service will be Rev. Kyle Sorensen with burial to follow at Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. The family will greet relatives and friends at Salem Ebenezer Church, Wednesday, December 29, 2004 from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The visitation will continue Thursday morning at church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. The Pfeffer Funeral Home and Cremation Care Center is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

Fort Myers News-Press April 16, 2008 Betty Jean (Marriner) Wharton, 65, of Cape Coral, died April 14, 2008 at the Cape Coral Hospital from complications of Scleroderma.Born in Salisbury, MD, she was the daughter of the late Thomas Marriner of Salisbury, and Florence Sweetser who lives in Lehigh Acres. Wharton and her husband, Gene Wharton, moved to Cape Coral in 2001 after she retired from Perdue Foods Inc., of Salisbury, MD. Wharton graduated from Wicomico Senior High School in Salisbury, MD, in 1962 and worked for many years for the Chesapeake and Potomac Telephone Co. She also worked for 25 years for Perdue Foods Inc., in Salisbury.In addition to her husband and mother, she is also survived by two sons, Ron Wharton (Tammy or TJ) of San Diego, CA, and Keith Wharton (Barb) of West Ocean City, MD, and a granddaughter, Jessica Tess Wharton. Also surviving are a sister, Vivian Weinstock of Lehigh Acres, a sister-in-law Barbara (Mel) Toadvine of Lehigh Acres, several nieces, nephews and cousins.One cousin, Peggy Wright of Virginia, a nurse, provided care and comfort during her final days. Wharton was a fun-loving person with lots of friends.Funeral services will be held Thursday at 3 p.m. at the Coral Ridge Funeral Home in Cape Coral. Interment will follow in the Coral Ridge Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home beginning at 1 p.m. Contributions may be made in Betty Wharton's memory to the American Scleroderma Foundation at 300 Rosewood Drive, Suite 105, Danvers, MA 01923

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Aug. 31, 1934--After fighting bravely against odds for life, little June Frances Wheaton, three-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Wheaton of East end, died early yesterday from the result of burns suffered when she tumbled into a tub of scalding water. Although little hope was held out for her recovery, the child lived for more than a week after the painful accident. Funeral services were held yesterday morning at the Engelhardt funeral home and interment was in the Fort Myers cemetery. Rev. H. L. Wiggins of the Edgewood Methodist church had charge of the services.

Fort Myers News-Press 22 Feb 2009 Bonnabell N. Wheeler, 92, of Fort Myers, passed away Saturday, February 21, 2009. She was born November 14, 1916 in Allegan County, MI and moved to Fort Myers in 1952. She retired from United Telephone Company with over 20 years of service and was a member of Southside Christian Church.Survivors of Mrs. Wheeler are her three sons: Gary L. Wheeler and his wife, Edna J., Alan D. Wheeler and David L. Wheeler, all of Fort Myers, eleven grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and several great great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Warren Dell Wheeler.Funeral services will be conducted at 4:00 PM on Monday, February 23, 2009 at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home. Private interment will be in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Friends will be received from 2:00 PM until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hope Hospice of Lee County, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908.Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907, 239-936-0555. www.fortmyersmemorial.com

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Aug. 5, 1955 - Hugh D. Wheeler, 56, a resident of Fort Myers for the past 30 years died yesterday. He was employed by Lee Motors. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. H. D. Wheeler, daughters, Joan Wheeler, Gail Wheeler of Fort Myers; Mrs. Anthony Cruse, Winter Haven; stepdaughter, Mrs. Rex Bennington, Ft. Myers; sons, Bobby Wheeler, Sarasota, Walter Wheeler and Hugh Jr. of Fort Myers; sisters, Mrs. Sallie Farr, Athens, Ga., Mrs. Effie Wallace, Charlotte, N.C., Mrs. Margaret Underwood, Mrs. Lucille Huff, of Fort Myers; brothers, W. L. Wheeler, Albany, Ga.,Bennie Wheeler, Athens; W. W. Wheeler and Moss Wheeler of Ft. Myers. Several nieces and nephews survive. Arrangements will be announced later by Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Oct. 4, 1935--Mrs. Marian Wheeler, 25, wife of Edward L. Wheeler, died yesterday morning at Lee Memorial hospital after a short illness. Besides her husband, she is survived by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Holland; two daughters, Shirley Janette age six and Lucille Annabelle aged four; three sisters, Mrs. Howard Wheeler and Miss Evelyn Holland of Fort Myers and Mrs. Costa Manos of Tarpon Springs; two brothers, Robert Holland of Miami and John Holland of St. Petersburg. Funeral services will be held at 3 o'clock this afternoon at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel on First street. The Rev. W. H. Edwards and the Rev. Kent Pendleton will have charge of services. Interment will be at the Fort Myers cemetery. Pallbearers are D. C. Pollock, Paul Franklin, W. B. Seabrook, Nelson Hough, W. J. Edelblut and Ernest Bowman.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - Saturday, January 7, 1978 Myrtice L. Wheeler, 62, of 342 Kingston Drive, Tice, died Friday. She had been a resident of Fort Myers for the past 40 years. She is survived by three daughters, Patricia Wagner, Gayle Wheeler in California and Rita O'Neal, and seven grandchidlren. Funeral service will be held Monday at 9:30 a.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home. Burial will be at Fort Myers Cemetery (Garden of Memories).

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Nov. 21, 1935--Oscar Wheeler, Slater sawmill negro, fell dead in front of the Royal Palm Pharmacy yesterday morning with prescriptions in his hand which he was to have filled to ward off heart failure. Dr. W. H. Grace, who had examined Wheeler ten minutes earlier and written the prescriptions, was called but the negro was dead. Dr. Grace said he told the negro that his heart was bad and had advised rest and medicine. Wheeler, a 42-year-old millhand, was an employee of the Dowling Camp lumber company.

THE FORT MYERS PRESS, Dec. 21, 1929--Ross William Wheeler, 38, died in the Lee Memorial hospital at 6 o'clock this morning from injuries received when he drove a heavy sedan into a deep ditch on the Tamiami Trail, opposite the Fort Myers Golf course, sometime between 3 and 5 o'clock this morning. Wheeler lived to reach the hospital but died of internal injuries before medical aid could be rendered. The fatal accident occurred when Wheeler, a resident of Buckingham, was returning to Fort Myers from Bonita springs in a borrowed car. An investigation showed that he was driving at a terrific rate of speed and had evidently lost control of the car. The sedan, which belonged to Miss Shenefield of Fort Myers, was a total wreck after it had slid 75 feet through the ditch to the opposite side of the highway embankment. The injured man was discovered by Senefield and Mr. and Mrs. Judd. They had started to take Shenefield home after Wheeler failed to return with the car. According to the story told by Shenefield to Deputy Sheriffs Roy Larson and Jerry Collins, he discovered the wreck at about 3 o'clock and rushed the injured man to the hospital after lifting his body through the windshield. The victim was unconscious at the time and only lived to take several long breaths at the hospital. The sheriff's office failed to substantiate the theory that Shenfield was riding in the death car but they were frank to state that Wheeler was under the influence of liquor when the crash occurred. Wheeler's body was taken to the Lawrence A. Powell Funeral Home where last rites will be held tomorrow. Wheeler is survived by three brothers, Jerry M., G. L. C., adn W. Henry Wheeler of Buckingham and Fort Myers and one married sister, Mrs. Lottie Esclante of Tampa. No inquest was held.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, July 17, 1955 - Archie F. Whidden, 71, a resident of Fort Myers for the past 48 years, died yesterday. Surviving are his wife, Ruth Marr Whidden, four sons, M. B. Whidden, Gilmore Whidden, Abe Whidden and Archie F. Whidden Jr.; a brother, J. W. Whidden ; a sister, Mrs. Annie Wisswear, Sanford, and 11 grandchildren. Funeral arrangements...by Leo W. Engelhardt funeral home.

Fort Myers News Press, Oct 21 2001 - Dennis Ray Whidden, 55 of Fort Myers, died October 20, 2001 in Hospice House. He was born in Clyattville, Georgia to Paul and Ruby Whidden on November 16, 1945. The family moved to Ft. Myers in 1955 where Dennis attended Lee Junior High School and graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1964. He graduated from Fort Myers Technical School in 1970. Dennis served 3 years in the U.S. Army. He was then a meat cutter at Winn Dixie and A&P in Ft. Myers. In 1973, he went to work for the U.S. Post Office as a letter carrier downtown. In 1981 he became the mailman for Six Lakes Mobile Home Park for the next 16 years. Dennis was a member of Olga-Ft. Myers Shores United Methodist Church, Sons of Confederate Veterans, Florida Flywheelers, American Legion, SW Florida Bluegrass Association and an adult leader in Boys Scouts of America. He is survived by his wife of 32 years Joan and their children Christine Case (Donnie) Webster of Newborn, Georgia and son Gary P. of Ft. Myers; grandchildren Slaton Case, Weldon & Ashley Webster; mother Ruby Whidden of Ft. Myers; sister Belle (Marvin) Perry of Morrilton, Arkansas; brothers Alvery H. (Sabine) of N. Ft. Myers, Kirby of Ft. Myers and David (Pam) of Jacksonville. He was preceded in death by his father Paul Whidden in 1994. Funeral Services will be conducted at Lee Memorial Park on Wednesday Oct. 24, at 11:00 AM .

Fort Myers News-Press, 26 May 2005-- Harmon P. "Pete" Whidden, 87, of Corkscrew, died in Port Orange May 26, 2005, he was born in Estero a son of the late Leonard and Stella Whidden, he served in the Navy during WW II, he was a master carpenter in the area for many years. Mr. Whidden is survived by his daughter and son-in-law Billie Jean and George Whitehead of Deleon Springs, his grandchildren Pamela and family of Ft. Lauderdale, Brian and family of Columbia SC and his six great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife Mary I. Whidden in February 2000. A funeral service celebrating his life will be celebrated at the Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home on Saturday at 2 PM., the family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 6-7 PM. Interment will be in Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, March 7, 1961-- Clewiston, March 6, Julian Vernon Whidden, 61, of Lake Port died suddenly Sunday at his home. A resident there for the past five years, he was a native of Florida and was employed by the State Road Department. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Nettie Whidden; a son Vernon of Lake Port; his mother, Mrs. Annie Whidden of LaBelle; three brothers, Marvin of Lake Port and Arch and Bethel of Palmdale; three sisters, Mrs. Mady Yeomans and Mrs. Grace Kinsey of Fort Myers and Mrs. Bertha Thompson of LaBelle. Graveside services will be held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Ortona Cemetery with the Rev. Nobles of Moore Haven officiating. Pattison Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Leonard J. Whidden

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, May 6, 1952 -- Manuel Whidden, 46, died Sunday in Key West. He had lived in Fort Myers until two years ago.  He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Whidden of Key West; a son, Larry Whidden in Minnesota; two brothers, Emerry Whidden of Key West and George Whidden in Ohio; three sisters, Mrs. Lenora Whidden of Olga, Mrs. Laura Belle Wells of Lake Worth and Mrs. Etolia Ridgon of Tampa.  Local arrangements are in charge of Leo w. Engelhardt Funeral Home

Fort Myers News – Press-29 Jul 2008- Ruby M. Whidden, 90, born November 14, 1917 in Empire, Georgia, went home to the Lord on July 27, 2008. Ruby was the youngest daughter of Charlie and Martha (Graham) Davis. She is predeceased by her parents, four sisters, her husband, Paul Whidden and her son, Dennis R. Whidden. Her surviving children are daughter Belle Perry, Palatka, and sons Alvery H. Whidden, North Fort Myers, Kirby L. Whidden, Fort Myers, and David K. Whidden, Jacksonville. She also leaves behind 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandson.She moved from Georgia to Florida in 1937 and lived in many different cities until settling in Lee County. She retired at the age of 80 from the Lee County School Board as a lunchroom worker for Tanglewood Elementary in 1998; and had lived in a nursing home in Jacksonville since March 2003. Visitation and funeral services will be Thursday, July 31, 2008, 10 am at Farley Memorial Funeral Home in Lehigh Acres, with Reverend Jerome Sears officiating. Interment will follow at the Fort Denaud Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to West Jacksonville Health and Rehab, Activities Department, 1650 Fouraker Road, Jacksonville, FL 32221.

Terry A. Whidden, age 48, of Lakeport, passed away March 17, 2008 in Ft. Myers. She was born Nov. 4, 1959 in Okeechobee.Survivors include two daughters, Heather Donbos (Dan) of Michigan, Aimee Clay (Josh) of Okeechobee; parents, Roy L. Whidden and Catherine (Waldron) Whidden of Lakeport; one sister, Ida Green (Mark) of Ft. Myers; granddaughter, Aubrey Clay of Okeechobee; Aunts, Mary Etta Strickland of Lakeport and Lynell Tiger (Amos) of Brighton Reservation.Funeral services will be held Friday, March 21, at 11 a.m. at Ortona Cemetery, with Randy Johnson officiating. All arrangements were under the direction of Akin-Davis Funeral Home, LaBelle.

Fort Myers News Press Dec 6, 2002 Virginia S. Davis Whidden, 89, of North Fort Myers, passed away Wednesday, December 4, 2002, at her home. She was a pioneer resident living her entire life in Lee County.She is survived by her son David E. Whidden and his wife Louise of North Fort Myers; three grandsons, David L. Whidden of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Randy E. Whidden, United States Marine Corp., James D. Whidden, United States Marine Corp. and her niece Carolyn Hawkins of Atlanta, Georgia. She was preceded in death by her parents Florida Pioneers Rab and Effie Davis, her husband of sixty five years Ellis B. Whidden and a sister Elisabeth Davis. Funeral service will be conducted Saturday, December 7, 2002, at 11:00 a.m. North Fort Myers Memorial Funeral Home with Rev. David A. Liddell, pastor North Fort Myers United Methodist Church, officiating. Local interment will be private.Friends may call one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.A very special thanks to Louise for taking such unconditional loving care of Mother and thanks to Hope Hospice for helping in our time of need.

Caloosa Belle, Oct 29, 2008-- LABELLE - Wendy Lane Whidden, of LaBelle, passed away Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Lehigh Acres. She was 18. She was born Feb. 3, 1990, in Fort Myers, the daughter of Stuart K. and Christina Lee (Williams) Whidden Jr. She was a lifelong resident of the Moore Haven and LaBelle. She graduated LaBelle High School class of 2007 and was attending Edison State College in LaBelle. Survivors include her mother, Christina and Larry Davidson, LaBelle; father, Stuart K. and Holly Whidden Jr. of Moore Haven; brothers, Stuart K. Whidden III of LaBelle, Nick Davidson of LaBelle, Brad Davidson of Franklin, N.C.; sisters, Ashley Davidson of Fort Myers, Darcy Green of Moore Haven; paternal grandmother, Barbara Whidden of Andrews, N.C.; maternal grandmother, Vivian Thompson Martin of LaBelle, paternal grandparents, Boe and Janis Davidson of LaBelle. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather, Stuart K. Whidden Sr. "Grand Goggie," and maternal grandfather, Tommy N. Williams Sr. Funeral services will be held 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, 2008, at Life Ministries in LaBelle with Pastors Jorge and Asia Rodriguez officiating. Burial will be in Fort Denaud Cemetery, LaBelle. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle

FORT MYERS PRESS, Saturday, July 13, 1940-- William Wesley Whidden, 67-year-old North Fort Myers carpenter, died yesterday at his residence. Funeral services will be held at 3 o'clock this afternoon at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel on First Street with the Rev. LeRoy Crider officiating. Pallbearers will be Harry Louis, H. N. Peterson, Scott Weaver, H. O. Kight, Sr., C. A. Davis and Tom Corbitt. Interment will be in the New Prospect Cemetery. Mr. Whidden had made his home here for 40 years, coming from Pine Level, and was one of the pioneer builders of the north river section. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Maggie Whidden; four daughters, Mrs. C. H. Rosser, Jr., and Mrs. Marie Elwell of Fort Myers, Mrs. R. M. Brewer of Auburndale and Mrs. Margaret McEvene of Charleston, S. C.; a son, John of Fort Myers; a brother, Bennett of Fort Myers; three sisters, Mrs. L. D. Corbett, Mrs. D. Curry of Fort Myers and Mrs. Mary Davis of Portland, Ore.

Fort Myers News-Press, Jan 4 2005-- George W. Whisenant of Ft. Myers, FL and North Port, FL. Born February 19, 1919. Died December 18, 2004 at the age of 85. He was a Navy Veteran served from 1942 - 1946. He retired from the Metropolitan Police Dept. after 22 yrs. he moved to North Port, FL where he became Lt. of North Port Charlotte Police Dept. 1969 he became Asst. Chief of Police. Then he was elected as a City Commissioner where he was appointed 1st Fire Chief of the City 1976. He helped start the Ambulance Service, he was a member of the VFW, American Legion, Lions Club, Moose Club and CB Chubs. He was proceeded in death by his wife of 65 yrs. Violetta Louise Whisenant. He is survived by 2 daughters Sharyn Price of Ft. Myers, Annette Boots of North Port, 2 sons George Jr. of Cape Coral, Michael of Port Charlotte and a brother Charley Melrose and sister Betsey from Sarasota plus nieces, nephews, grand children and great grand children. A memorial service January 6, 2005 at 11 A.M. at Lee Memorial Park, Ft. Myers

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Monday, October 21, 1985 Mrs. Jewell B. Whitaker, 70, of Fort Myers, died Sunday. A lifelong resident of Fort Myers, she is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Mildred A. Williams and Mrs. Wanda Carter, and three brothers, G. B. Brantley, E. M. Brantley and Russell Brantley, all of Fort Myers. There will be no services and entombment will be private. Arrangements by Harvey Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd.

Fort Myers News-Press Nov 24, 1998 Clyde C. White, Jr., 70, of Fort Myers, died November 21, 1998. He was a native of Fort Myers, a member of First Alliance Church and graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1946. Survivors include his wife, Miriam L. White; a son, Gary B. White; one brother, Glenn D. White and wife Miada; daughters-in-law, Kim White and Denise White all of Fort Myers; four grandchildren: Benjamain White, Jessi White, Jenny White and Carolyn White. He was preceded in death by a son Greg White. Funeral services will be Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. at the First Alliance Church on Colonial Blvd. with Rev. Short and Rev. James F. Hay officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Gardens. Friends may call at the church on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until time of services. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to First Alliance Church. Arrangements by Anderson Funeral Home, Inc. 3654 Palm Beach Blvd.

Fort Myers News-Press, 9 May 2006 -- Earl D. White, age 76, of Felda passed away May 6, 2006 in Felda. He was born January 18, 1930 in Trenton, FL. Earl married Estelle King January 11, 1951 in Felda. He was a loving husband, daddy and papa. Survivors include his wife; Estelle (King) White, children; Jeannie (Ronnie) Lynch of LaBelle, Nancy (Robert) Asbel of Immokalee and Timothy Earl White of Felda, grandchildren; Stephanie (R.C.) Carlton, Mark (Corine) Lynch, Daniel Lynch, Christa (Hugh) Hewitt, Nikki White, Logan Carlton, Lukas Carlton, Joshua White, Shyann White, Ashton Lynch and Dylan Howell, sisters; Elsie (Ray) Townsend of Australia, Deanie (Ray) Rimes of Venus, and brothers; Roger (Virginia) White of Felda and Orville (Agnes) White of Alabama and many other extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; Mark Solomon White and Cora B. (Parrish) White and brothers; Everett and Ronald White. A graveside funeral service will be held Wednesday, May 10, 2006, 10 AM at Felda Cemetery with Rev. James Caves and Rev. Richard Phipps officiating. Visitation will be TONIGHT from 7-9 PM at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718 or Hope Hospice, 25 Homestead Rd., Unit 35, Lehigh Acres, FL 33936

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Dec. 6, 1935--Hubert H. White, 49-year-old East End resident, died yesterday at his home on Woodside avenue after a three days illness. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Lucy M. White, three daughters, Mrs. Bascom Mills, Dorothy and Rosalyn, and a son Hubert, two brothers, Joe L. and Q. W., and two sisters, Mrs. J. T. Tucker and Mrs. Neoma Langford of Conyers, Ga. Mr. White came to Fort Myers 16 years ago from Georgia. Funeral arrangements are being made by Lawrence A. Powell.

Fort Myers News - Press, 15 May 2005 -- Jo-Ann White, 68, of Cape Coral passed away May 13, 2005. She was born in New York City and moved to Cape Coral in 1989. She loved Bingo and enjoyed her family. She is survived by her husband Charles and her children Brad and Beverly of Cape Coral and Mark and Perri-Ann of Shirley, NY. She is also survived by 7 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be conducted on Wednesday May 18th at 11:00 AM at the Chapel of the Coral Ridge Funeral Home. Burial will follow at the Coral Ridge Cemetery.

Ft Myers News-Press, 2004-04-22 -- Judy Pearl White, age 60, of N. Ft. Myers, passed away April 20, 2004 in N. Ft. Myers. She was born November 4, 1943 in Sebring to Robert Greer and Marie Elland Greer. Survivors include her husband; Lester Baker, children; Tammie McDuffie, Ronnie White, Andy White, Danny White and Lisa Thompson, brothers; Buddy Greer and Harold Greer, 15 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 24, 2004, 11:00 AM, at Community Harvest Church in LaBelle with Pastor L.W. Howard officiating. Interment will follow at Fort Denaud Cemetery in LaBelle. Visitation will be held Friday evening from 6-8 PM at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle.

Tallahassee Democrat Feb 24, 1999 Pauline Davis White, 82, of Tallahassee, died Tuesday. The service will be at 1 p.m. Friday at Culley's MeadowWood Timberlane Road Chapel (877-8191), with burial at Culley's MeadowWood Memorial Park. Family will receive friends from 1130 a.m. to 100 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Resource Center of Tallahassee, P.O. Box 3553, Tallahassee, 32315. A native of Olga, she had lived in Tallahassee since 1988. She was a Cub Scout leader and worked for Prather's Dry Cleaning in Fort Myers. She was a member of Tampa Baptist Church and Academy in Tampa. She is survived by her husband, Herman E. White of Tallahassee; two sons, Richard E. White of Tallahassee and Charles E. White of Silver Spring, Md.; a daughter, Carolyn E. Stewart of Lake Charles, La..; and five grandchildren.

Ft Myers News-Press, June 22, 2001 - Thelma Lee White, 67, of Fort Myers, died Friday, June 15, 2001. .Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 23, 2001 from Mt. Hermon Baptist Church, 2856 Douglas Street, Fort Myers. Interment to follow in Lee Memorial Park. Visitation will be 6 - 8 p.m., Today from Hickson Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2005-04-26-- Alchus Whitehead, 83, of Ft. Myers, has gone home to Jesus, April 25, 2005, he was a son of the late Joseph and Sadie Whitehead. Alchus was a Army-Air Force veteran serving in the Pacific Theatre during WW II, he received the Bronze Star, he worked as a truck driver for Whitehead Farms for many years, he then started his own landscaping business Whitehead's Lawn Care which he operated for many years, he was a member of Estero Baptist Church, V.F.W. Post #2444, D.A.V. # 75, he enjoyed fishing and hunting. Mr. Whitehead is survived by his sons and daughters in law Joseph W. and Ann Whitehead, Sr., of Ft. Myers, Gerald and Roxie Whitehead of Lehigh Acres, his sisters Daisy Miley of Hernando, Bessie Croft of Gainesville, his grandchildren Joseph C., Jason, Heather, Joseph W., Jr., Troy, Tara, Darren, 8 great grandchildren, he was predeceased by his wife Verna L., in 1999, his son Gene in 1997, his brother Alvin in 2004. A funeral service celebrating his life will be conducted in the Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home on Friday at 11 AM., the family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. Entombment will be in Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Jan. 5, 1936--Funeral services for Alto(Alta) Whitehead, 48-year-old Lee County resident, will be held at 3 o'clock this afternoon at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel with the Rev.C. T. Tew officiating. Interment will be at Fort Myers Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press Aug 2, 2009 Jane L Whiteman, 90, died peacefully last Sunday. She was preceded in death by her husband, Captain Armand D Whiteman, USN Ret., and her eldest son, William A Whiteman.A resident of Fort Myers since 1962, Jane was active in the community and a long time member of Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church. Jane was a proud member of the National Society Colonial Dames XVII Century, Society of Mayflower Descendants, and the DAR. She enjoyed politics, and for many years volunteered at the polls.Jane was devoted to her family and provided her son Bill a lifetime of loving care. She is survived by her sister, Margaret Schultheiss; daughter, Cynthia Edgington; two sons, John Whiteman and James Whiteman; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be conducted on Saturday, August 15, at 2:00 PM at Wesley Memorial UMC. Inurnment in Arlington National Cemetery, with her husband and son, will be at a later date.

Florida Times-Union Oct 5, 2009 Funeral services for Terry Lee Whitener, 50, who died October 8, 2009, will be held Saturday at 10:30 AM in the chapel of George H. Hewell and Son Funeral Home, 4747 Main Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206 with Rev. Michael Surratte officiating. Interment will follow in Edgewood Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday from 6-8 PM at the funeral home. Mr. Whitener was born in Jacksonville, Florida and was a lifelong resident. He was a member of the Baptist faith. Survivors include his mother, Joyce R. Heufel; 1 brother, Charles A. Whitener Sr., (Debbie) and his uncle, Lee "Jack" Price. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in his memory to: American Diabetes Association , P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312 Please Sign the Guestbook @ Jacksonville.com

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - April 2, 1951-- Old-timers here were shocked yesterday at the news of the death of Frank A. Whitney, former circuit judge who had filled many positions of honor and trust in this community, including that of mayor of Fort Myers, since near the turn of the century. Born in Topeka, Kas., 82 years ago, Judge Whitney came to Florida, in Alachua County, when two years old and spent most of the rest of his life in this state which he loved greatly. As a boy he attended the then Florida Military Academy and went on to Chicago University and Northwestern law school, getting his degree when 21 but, because of his unusual scholastic accomplishments, staying on at the request of Northwestern University as lecturer on law for another year. Funeral arrangements were still pending last night. Grief-stricken and confined to her bed, Mrs. Whitney said: "He was one of the most honest men in the world and one of the kindest husbands any woman ever had." Coming back to Florida after college, Judge Whitney made such a name for himself with a law office at Lakeland that he was appointed judge of the South Florida circuit which at that time included Miami.It was from his headquarters in 1914 that he granted the injunction against building a new Lee County courthouse which William H. Towles, as chairman of the county commission, defied by tearing down the old one so a new one could be built. Judge Whitney was one of the sponsors of the Iona Drainage District in the 1920's. He served as mayor of Fort Myers from 1933 to 1935.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Nov. 7, 1932--Mrs. Mamie Whitney, wife of Judge Frank A. Whitney, died late last night at her home, 11 Michigan avenue. She had suffered for some time with a recurrent heart ailment. She was 59 years old. Judge and Mrs. Whitney had lived in Fort Myers for the last seven years, coming here from Arcadia where he had been prominent in legal circles and public affairs. Arrangements for the funeral of Mrs. Whitney, which will be in charge of Lawrence A. Powell had not been completed last night.

Fort Myers News-Press May 9, 2008 LD Whittaker, veteran of WWII passed away May 5, 2008 at Heritage Health Care Center in Naples. Has been a resident of FL since 1974. Born April 4, 1919 to Robert Luther and Perlie Mae Whittaker in Sparta, TN. He enlisted in the service in 1942 after moving to OH. After being injured in Italy, he returned stateside for several years of hospital care. He is a recipient of the Purple Heart. LD was employed by WPAFB as a civilian until his retirement in 1973 when he and his wife moved to FL from OH.He is preceded in death by his loving wife Jeanette, son Robert and brother Jesse Herman Whittaker. LD is survived by his daughter Sharon Whittaker of WA, brothers, Jesse, Calvin, Willis Duey and Robert Luther Whittaker all of OH; sister Reba Whittaker of TN, daughter-in-law Sherry (Richard Gouveia) Whittaker, of Naples, 3 grandsons Matthew (Lisa) Whittaker of FL; Jared Willis of LA; Jason Willis of WA and granddaughter Teresa (Mac) Irvin of FL; 4 great-grandchildren; Jake and Shelby Irvin, Hayden and Aeryn Whittaker and many nieces and nephews. LD was a member of Disabled Veterans of WWII, Masons, Scottish Rite, Shriners and many other different organizations. Be at rest, we will miss your great humor and laughter and we love you.Graveside service will be held at Coral Ridge Cemetery, Cape Coral, FL on Friday, May 9th, 1PM. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to either the Alzheimer's Foundation or the Disabled Veterans of America.

Fort Myers News-Press, Dec 19, 2004--Jerome W. Whitton, 64, of Cape Coral passed away on Friday December 17, 2004. He served his country in the U.S. Army during Vietnam. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Marthe J. "Marty" Whitton; two children, Michelle Ballantine of Cape Coral and Jerome W. Whitton, II and wife Rebecca; two sisters, Eileen Heinze and Joan Heim; two brothers, Ken Whitton and John Whitton; and one grandson, Alexander Whitton. Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday December 21, 2004 at 2 P.M. at Epiphany Episcopal Church, 2507 Del Prado Boulevard, with The Rev. Dr. Stanley L. Dull officiating. Interment will follow at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements by Cape Coral Memorial Funeral Home, 542-3161.

Hector J Whitworth

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Oct 21, 2003 - Louis T. Whitworth, 84, of Pine Island died Monday October 20, 2003 at the Cape Coral Hospital. The son of the late William and Manuella (nee Rubbio) Whitworth, he was born May 22, 1919 in Cuba. Louis moved to Pine Island in 1931 where he worked as a commercial fisherman. He served his country honorably during WW II where he served as a boat Captain to General Eisenhower. Following the war he returned to Pine Island and married Virginia Anderson in 1964. He was a member of the St. Johns Episcopal Church and a lifetime member of the V.F.W. Louis will always be remembered for his love of the water. Survivors include his wife of 40 years Virginia. His daughter Carmen (Warren) Bordner of LaBelle, granddaughter Angela (Mitchell) Conley of Pine Island, great-grandchildren Mitchell James and Brittany Taylor Conley of Pine Island. Two sisters Willameania Hanson of Ft. Myers and Georgia Aguilar of Cuba and numerous nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends for viewing Wednesday October 22, 2003 between the hours of 6:00 PM & 8:00 PM. Military Honors by the VFW will be conducted at 6:30 PM. Arrangements by the Metz Chapel of Harvey Engelhardt Metz Funeral Homes and Crematory, Cape Coral.

Fort Myers News-Press, 22 Apr 2005-- John P Whyte III, formally of Billerica, Massachusetts / stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas passed away on Sunday, 17 April 2005 after being struck by a moving vehicle at the age of 33. John was born and raised in Billerica, Massachusetts before he was congressionally nominated to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. John excelled in academics and was commissioned as an officer in the Infantry. He served in various positions and levels of responsibility in the 82nd Airborne Division, 2nd Infantry Division, and recently as a Company Commander in the 3rd Infantry Division. John was a highly decorated veteran of both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom receiving both the Bronze Star Medal and Combat Infantryman's Badge for meritorious actions conducted during combat operations in Iraq in 2003. John was a hero not only to the men and women he led while in the Army, but also to his friends and family. John was a devoted and dedicated husband and father who touched more people in his 33 years than most could do in one hundred. He is survived by his wife Jennifer "Treem" Whyte of Fort Myers, FL; son Jack, and daughter Abigail. John was the son of John Patrick Whyte JR. and Marie Whyte of Billerica, MA, and brother to Anne Moore and Elizabeth Lewis. John Patrick Whyte III will always be remembered as a loving husband, father, son, friend, Red Sox Fan and hero. Services will be held at the St. Cecelia Catholic Church in Fort Myers, Fl. on the 23rd of April.

Fort Myers News-Press Sep 22, 1999 Nov. 21, 1953 to Sep. 9, 1999 Debra McMillan Wicker passed away on Thursday, September 9, 1999 in Crestview, Florida. Her husband, Kenneth Wicker, and three daughters, Sheri Morrison, Jennifer Morrison and Sarah Morrison survive her. Debbie is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Gene and Crystal Dee Murray McMillan; nephews, Gary Cline, Arlie McMillan; nieces, Lisa Cline Sweitzer, Christie McMillan. Her lifelong friend, Bonnie Rachel Wright Johns also survives her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Arlie and Bessie McMillan, as well as her sister, MaryAnn Cassels Cline , and her brother, Hilmer Cassels .Debbie was born in Fort Myers, attended Lee County Schools and graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1971. She had a keen interest in horses, and was involved in the raising and training of horses until her death. She was a barber by trade until she joined her husband's business in 1991. It was her dream to live in the West and her dream was realized in the last year of her life. Everyone who knew her will long remember Debbie's determination and her desire to succeed. Friends and family gathered for private services and a celebration of Debbie's life in Crestview, Florida on Saturday, September 11, 1999

Fort Myers News-Press April 22, 2009 Vernon Roberts Widerquist, lately of the City of Friendswood, Texas, passed away Sunday morning, 12 April 2009. Mr. Widerquist was born to Vernon Gustav Widerquist and Johnette Wiley Odom in Ft. Myers, Florida, on 21 September 1922.Mr. Widerquist attended school in Ft. Myers through high school, where among other things he learned to play the clarinet. He entered Georgia Institute of Technology in 1939. He served as Regiment Commander of the ROTC and graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering (with honors). He later obtained a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering. He also attended the Army Electronics School at Harvard University and the Army-Navy Radar School at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Mr. Widerquist served as an officer in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946. From 1948 to 1956 he held positions at the Georgia Tech Engineering Research Station, as a Research professor. He was a founding member of Scientific-Associates, Inc., which later became Scientific Atlanta, Inc. He worked for TRW Systems from 1956 to 1987 managing projects for the Air Force in Florida, and then the Apollo Program for NASA in Houston, Texas.Mr. Widerquist was a member of Phi Eta Sigma , Tau Beta Pi , Phi Kappa Phi and Sigma Xi . He was a Senior Member in the Institute of Radio Engineers, member of Groups on Engineering Management and Bio-Medical Electronics, and a member of the American Association of Advancement of Science.Mr. Widerquist is survived by his wife Catherine of 59 years, sons George, of Friendswood, Texas, and Carl of Alpharetta, Georgia, daughter Jane Forbes of Lubbock, Texas, and his sister Anne and brother-in-law J. D. Raulerson of Bartow, Florida, along with 8 grand children and 4 great-grand children. A private family service will be held.

FORT MYERS PRESS, February 14, 1924 Funeral services for Juliet Widerquist, the infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Vernon G. Widerquist, will be held tomorrow morning at 10:30 o'clock at her parents' home, the Rev. Dr. O. A. Thrower officiating. The burial will take place in the local cemetery. The entire city of Fort Myers is bowed in sympathy with its Mayor Commissioner and Mrs. Widerquist in the sudden death from pneumonia of their little daughter.

Fort Myers News-Press Aug 8, 1992 Wicks, Mark Richard was Born May 6, 1952, Clairon, Iowa and departed this life August 8, 1992 in Ft Myers Florida. Services held at First Alliance Church on Saturday, August 15, 1992 at 1100 A.M. Clergy Rev. James F Hay. Place of Interment: Memorial Gardens Cemetery

Ft Myers News-Press, Thursday, November 10, 1910 With this issue it becomes our sad duty to announce the death of one of our oldest and most beloved citizens, Mrs. Maria Charlotte Widerquist, who passed away at the home of her son, Mr. G. F. Widerquist, last Saturday night, November 5th, at 10 o'clock, surrounded by loving children and friends. Death was caused mostly from old age, this lady at the time of her death being 77 years old. Mrs. Widerquist was born at Orebo, Sweden, march 14th, 1844. In 1858 she married Mr. John Frederick Widerquist. To this union were born four children, two of whom are living in the persons of Mr. Frank Widerquist of Moline, Ill., and Mr. G. F. Widerquist of this city. In the year 1876 her husband departed this life, and with her children Mrs. Widerquist came to America in 1885 and came to Fort Myers, where she has resided ever since. Mrs. Widerquist was reared a Lutheran, but in after years united with the Swedish Methodist Church, living a beautiful Christian life. As a wife she was constant, as a mother, loving and indulgent, and as a friend true and devoted. She was not able, on account of age, to get about much during the last few years of her life, but was ever ready with a loving smile to encourage those who came her way. The funeral services were held last Sunday afternoon, Rev. Fred Pixton, pastor of the Methodist Church, officiating. A large circle of friends were in attendance. To those who mourn we extend condolence in their hour of trial.

Fort Myers Memorial Gardens July 20, 2008- Andrew Widman, 30, of Cape Coral, Florida passed away July 18, 2008. He was born May 11, 1978 in Toledo, Ohio the son of Joseph and Martha Widman. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife Susanna Widman of Cape Coral, FL, three children Samuel Joseph Widman (4 years old), Sasha Marie Widman (20 months) and Sylvia Jane Widman (5 months), his parents Joseph and Martha Widman of Monclova, OH, sisters Abby (Joe) Hillrich and Alyse Widman, and brother Tony Widman, his grandmother Wilma Widman, his mother- and father-in-law, Tommy and Bonnie Rickards of North Fort Myers, FL, as well as three brothers-in-law Major David (Lexie) Rickards, Mark (Suzanna) Rickards, and Joshua Rickards. Visitation will be on Tuesday, July 22 from 6-8 pm at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 23, at 11 am at McGregor Baptist Church of Fort Myers, 3750 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers, Florida.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-11-06 - Jennifer Wigington died November 3, 2004. She is survived by her son Robin Larsson, her father Fletcher Wigington, her sister Melissa Hinkle, brother-in- law Jack Hinkle, nieces Jennifer Wigington Weller and Jessica Hinkle, and nephew Grant Hinkle. A Fort Myers native who also resided on Sanibel Island and in Kenya, Jennifer embraced life with an intensity that inspired all who knew her. She was the first female certified scuba diver in the state of Florida and an activist and advocate for wildlife conservation in Africa. Her conservationist endeavors included tagging elephants, measuring coral reef re-growth, ecological research, and writing articles for Swara and other scientific journals. As a teacher at the International School of Kenya for Sixteen years, Jennifer always found new and creative ways to inspire her students. Jennifer traveled the world, climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, obtained her pilot's license, and occasionally went skydiving. She led numerous safaris and avidly documented her experiences and observations through photography. People throughout East Africa also knew her as a part of the service support team in the safari Rally in Kenya (an off-road car racing marathon). Jennifer was loved by people all over the world, and she will be missed. She will be taken to her home in Kenya, where she may be returned to the land she so loved.

2005-07-11 -- Raymond Lee Wildman, Sr., 59, of N. Ft. Myers passed away Friday, July 8, 2005. Ray was born July 25, 1945 in Albany, GA. Ray was a loving husband, caring brother and devoted Dad and grandfather. "Big Ray" wasn't just a father to his 4 children, after working for the N. Ft. Myers Little League and N. Ft. Myers Football Association for 24 years he became a mentor and father figure to all. He left behind the memories of an extraordinary man and the legacy of a great coach. Ray's coaching career began in 1964 with the N. Ft. Myers Little League Association where he coached until retiring in 1979. He served as president of the league in 1975, 1976 and 1977. In 1965 he and 7 other men started the N. Ft. Myers Jr. Football Association. He was a dedicated coach for 20 years before retiring in 1985. Ray didn't sit on the sidelines for long. When his grandson Chase started playing he returned as little league announcer, scorekeeper and his grandson's biggest fan. He served as President of Little League again in 2005. In tribute for his dedication and everlasting devotion the youth of N. Ft. Myers, that on July 9, 2005 the N. Ft. Myers Community Park Little League was officially name the "Wildman Field". To all the boys and girls "Play Ball". Ray was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Wendy Kay Wildman on March 27, 2005. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Mary Griffin Wildman of N. Ft. Myers; his sons, Ray (Tena) Wildman, Jr. of N. Ft. Myers, and Jay (Shelly) Wildman of Cape Coral; his daughter, Danielle Wildman of N. Ft. Myers; 3 grandchildren, Chase, Brittany and Randy, 2 brothers, Dorman K. (Nadine) Kimbrell, Jr. of Ft. Worth, TX and George Donnie (Estella) Kimbrell Sr. of Albany, GA. Visitation will be held Tuesday, July 12, 2005 from 6-8 PM in the chapel of Coral Ridge Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 13, 2005 at 11:00 AM in the Bethel Assembly of God Church in N. Ft. Myers. Interment will follow in Coral Ridge Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press, 30 Mar 2005-- Wendy Kay Wildman, 34, of N. Ft. Myers, died Sunday, March 27, 2005 at Shands Teaching Hospital, Gainesville, Florida. A native of Ft. Myers, she was a graduate of Cape Coral High School, Class of 91, an employee at Miss Mary's Day Care and a member of Bethel Assembly of God Church. Wendy is survived by her loving parents Ray Sr. and Mary Wildman, her big brothers, Ray Jr. (Tena) Wildman of N. Ft. Myers, Jay (Shelly) Wildman of Cape Coral, her little sister Danielle Wildman of Fernandina Beach, FL, two nephews Chase, Randy, a niece Brittany and her maternal grandmother Estoria Reynolds of Ocilla, Georgia. Funeral service will be conducted Thursday, March 31, 2005 at 11:00 AM with interment to follow in Coral Ridge Cemetery. Coral Ridge Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press, Nov 30 2004 - Franklin Curry Wiles, 77, of Ft. Myers, died suddenly on Friday, November 26, 2004. He was born March 18, 1927 in Iona to Homer and Grace Curry Wiles who preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death is a sister, Barbara Ferguson Kirby and a nephew, Larry Ferguson. Curry served in the U.S. Navy overseas during World War II for seven years. Before his retirement, he worked for Sinclair Oil Refining Company for seventeen years and then was a supervisor for Ft. Myers Ready Mix for ten years. Survivors include his nephew, Wayne Edwin Kirby and Brittany Kirby of Tampa. Also surviving are Betty Meck, Patty Sanders, Paul Markle, Brent Sanders and his children, Ashley, Soloman, and Madison all of Ft. Myers. Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 PM Thursday, December 2, 2004 at Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd. Friends may visit with the family from 12:00 Noon until the time of the service. Burial will follow in Ft. Myers Cemetery with military graveside rites conducted by the V.F.W.

Fort Myers News-Press Mar 24, 1997 ASHEBORO NC - Mrs. Barbara Nickell Wilhelm, 49, of 834 Sherwood Road, died Thursday, March 20, 1997.The funeral will be 11 a.m. Monday, March 24, 1997, at St. John's Lutheran Church; FMHS 1965

Ethel M. Wilkens, 90, of Calusa Harbour, Ft. Myers, Fl., passed away May 7, 1994. She was born in Cincinnati, OH, November 27, 1903. She was a former resident of Whiskey Creek Club Estates for over 20 yrs. She was a member of Cypress Lake Methodist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years. Harold L. Wilkens of Newport, KY. She is survived by 17 nieces and nephews and one cousin, Joseph O. Macbeth of Sebring, FL. Funeral services will be conducted from the Chapel of the Harvey-Engelhardt Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd., Wednesday, May 11, 1994 at 11:00AM. Interment will be private in Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Aunt Ethel's niece, Janet Cole and nephew Michael Bowen, will receive friends and relatives one hour prior to service time at the funeral home.

Fort Myers News Press Sep 11, 2008 Shelly Demko Wilkinson, 60, of Woodbridge, Virginia, formerly of Fort Myers, Florida, passed away on September 3, 2008 in Richmond, Virginia. She is survived by her sister, Sandi Davenport (and husband, Bobby), her niece Lisa Berran (and husband, Brian), her nephew, Denny Groenke (and wife, Susan) and many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends. She is preceded in death by her father, Michael Demko of Fort Myers, Florida and her mother Janet M. McGill of Lake Wales, Florida. In 1988 Shelly moved to Woodbridge, Virginia and became a secretary at the Federal Bureau of Investigation. She recently celebrated her twentieth anniversary with the FBI. While at the Bureau she made many good and long-lasting friends. She was a unique individual with a special gift for laughter. Those who knew her will remember her with a smile. Shelly loved animals and adopted many strays. It didn't matter if they were domesticated or wild, she was their advocate. Shelly leaves behind her well loved parrotlet of twenty years, Scooter. The family will hold a private memorial service in Fort Myers, Florida. In Shelly's memory, donations can be made to the Animal Welfare Institute, P.O. Box 3650 Washington, D.C. 20027 or to the American Cancer Society.

Fort Myers News-Press, Mar 11 2005-- William D. "Doug" Wilkinson, 57, of Ft. Myers died Wednesday, March 9, 2005. Doug was a lifelong resident of Ft. Myers, born in Tampa, Florida on February 4, 1948. Doug began his career as a Fireman and Police Officer with the City of Ft. Myers. In 1974 he became Court Administrator for the 20th Judicial Circuit serving in that position for 28 years. In 2002 Doug accepted the position as the Executive Director for the office of the State Attorney for the 20th Circuit. Doug is survived by his loving family; wife Kathy Wilkinson, stepson Matthew Fronk, his mother, Maxine Bowie and father, Les Wilkinson of Engelwood; his son, William D. Wilkinson, Jr. of Ft. Myers and his wife Stacey; his daughter Karen Pergerson of Dade City and her husband Terry; 2 brothers, Leslie and Welton Wilkinson; 3 grandchildren, Amanda Wilkinson, Shannon Wilkinson, Shannon Wilkinson and Corey Pergerson; numerous aunt and uncles; nieces and nephews; extended family and beloved friends. A Memorial Celebration of Doug's Life will be held Saturday, March 12, 2005 at 2:30 PM at the Uncommon Friends Pavilion in Centenial Park, Ft. Myers. In lieu of flowers the family prefers memorials to the American Diabetes Assoc., Southwest FL Office, 4902 Eisenhower Blvd., Tampa, FL 33634. Arrangements by Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press 24 Jan 2008-- Margaret Merle Wilkison, age 90, of LaBelle, passed away January 22, 2008 in LaBelle. She was born Aug. 23, 1917 in Bainbridge, GA to late Ira Iverson Hollingworth and the late Fredna (Cobb) Hollingsworth.Survivors include four daughters: Carol (Gene) Barnett of Lehigh Acres, Gail (Denny) Wilkison of LaBelle, Helen Spratlin of Alva, Carrie (Scott) Morrison of LaBelle, two sons: Billy Wilkison of LaBelle, Don (Ginger) Lewis of Lakeport, sister: Dale (Glennier) Clyatt of Lake Butler, twenty-two grandchildren, twenty-three great-grandchildren, eleven great-great grandchildren She was preceded in death by her husband, Russell Wilkison, granddaughter, Nina Lewis, three sisters and one brother. She was the oldest of five children.Funeral services will be held Sat. January 26, 2008, 10:00 am at First Christian Church, in LaBelle with Pastor W. T. Maddox Jr. officiating. Interment will follow in Alva Cemetery.Visitation will be Friday from 6-8 p.m. at Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle. Jimmy Long, Billy Wilkison, Koty Lewis, Scott Morrison, Matt Barnett and Russell Clement will assist as pallbearers for at the service. Flowers for the service are appreciated or donations can be made to the Margaret Wilkison Memorial Fund c/o Oakbrook of LaBelle, 250 Broward Ave., LaBelle, FL 33935.Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle

Fort Myers News-Press, Nov 10 1910 -- The news of the death of Mr. Webb Wilkison will be read all over this nation with sorrow. He was a man who had friends in all sections, a typical Florida cracker with a heart that beat warm for everybody. Ever since boyhood we have known him, and we will all miss him. Mr. Wilkison has been in bad health for the past twelve months. For the past three months he has been in this city residing with his niece, Mrs. G. H. Bryant, where every attention was given him. About a week ago he went down to Captiva, where he hoped to regain his health. While there he was at the home of another niece, Mrs. H. D. Brainerd. Here also he was given every attention, but the end was close at hand, and last Monday night, after much suffering from heart trouble, he passed away. Deceased was a native Floridian, spending nearly his entire life in Lee County, where he has been a popular figure on the range. Generous to a fault, he always had friends. Deceased was a widower, one son being left to mourn his loss, Mr. Jasper Wilkison, who possibly had not yet heard of his father's death, as he is now somewhere on Lake Okeechobee. The remains were interred at Captiva. Our sympathy goes out to those who are left to mourn.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, Jan. 7,1928 -- Funeral services will be held at Engelhardt's chapel at 2 o'clock this afternoon for Andrew Jackson Williams, 71, who died yesterday near Venice at the home of his sons, Thomas and Willie E. Williams. Burial will be in the Alva cemetery near Mr. Williams' former home.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Feb. 4, 1938--Archie C. Williams, 45-year-old logging contractor, died yesterday of injuries received Sunday when a log he was loading on his truck slipped and fell across his back. He is survived by his wife, Edith; his mother, Mrs. George A. Williams; four sons, Archie, jr., Richard, Charles and George,and a daughter, Miss Carlie Williams; five brothers, T. F., W. E., R. L., Earl and Elois; a sister, Miss Jessie Williams. Funeral services will be held at 3 o'clock Saturday afternoon at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel on First street with the Rev. E. M. Bryant officiating. Interment will be in Fort Myers cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-08-01 -- Beloved husband Billy C. Williams, age 38, of Muse, FL, passed away July 29 2004 in Muse. He was born October 31, 1965 in St. Augustine. Billy enjoyed the outdoors and spending time with his family. Survivors include his wife; Dawn Williams, parents; William & Cathleen Williams of LaBelle, brothers; Steven Williams and Shelburn Williams both of LaBelle, grandfather; Chauncey Williams of St. Augustine and nieces & nephews; Shelby, Hana, Britten and Austin Williams. A graveside funeral service will be Tuesday, August 3, 2004 at 11:00 AM at the Fort Denaud Cemetery in LaBelle with Rev. Frank Deerey Jr. officiating. Visitation will be Tonight & Monday night from 6-8 PM at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, July 17, 1948-- Mrs. Blanche R. Williams, 64, of 1239 Monroe Street, died yesterday after a long illness. She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Harry Taylor of Fort Myers and Mrs. J. McDougal of Miami; three sons, Fred Williams of Everglades, Jimmy Williams of Miami and Henry Williams of Fort Myers; and a sister, Mrs. Florence Haggan of Fort Myers. Mrs. Williams came to Fort Myers in 1909 to make her home. She was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church. Lawrence A. Powell is in charge of arrangements which will be announced later. (Fort Myers Cemetery)

Fort Myers News-Press, 2005-03-22-- Cary Hunter Williams, 65, resident of St. James City since 1998 passed away March 8, 2005. He was born Feb. 11, 1940 in Miami, FL to parent Clarence and Clara E. Williams. Hunter was a Navy veteran who served in Vietnam aboard the USS Hancock. He retired from Greyhound Bus Lines, was a weather observor at Miami Int'l. Airport and was also a school bus driver for Lee County School System. Hunter was a member of the Pine Island VFW, Moose Lodge and the American Legion. He was also a Past Commander of the VFW in Miami. He is survived by his wife Terry of St. James City, his two sons Shane Williams, Gregory Williams (wife Jessie) and two loving granddaughters Lauren and Amber, all of Knoxville, TN. A private service will be held at a later date.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2005-03-27-- Charles Kenneth "Ken" Williams, Sr. was born August 11, 1930 in Mount Pleasant, Florida. He is predeceased by his parents "Bessie" and Audra Williams. He is survived by his wife of 54 years Olive Simpson Williams, son Charles "Chuck" Williams, Jr., granddaughter Amy Nolan of Ft. Myers, daughter and husband Kenette and Peter A. Newcombe, grandson, Christopher Newcombe of Tallahassee. Ken came to Ft. Myers in 1938. He graduated from Ft. Myers High School in 1949 and was drafted into the Marine Corp and after his discharge attended Sam Houston State Teachers College in Huntsville, Texas where he obtained his BA in Agriculture Education. In 1972 Ken decided to return to Ft. Myers and begin his own business, which eventually led to his association with Tempaco, a heating and air conditioning supply business. A memorial service will be held Monday, March 28, 2005, 7:00 PM at the Gulfcoast Church of Christ, 3825 McGregor Blvd., Ft. Myers, FL 33901.

Fort Myers News-Press Nov 9, 2008 Debbie Lynne (Braswell) Williams, born December 13, 1957 went home to be with her Lord, and Savior on November 5, 2008 after a brief illness with cancer. Debbie blessed many with her singing and musical talent. She was studying to be a musical therapist. Our loss is Heaven's gain.Debbie is survived by one son, Willie Graham Braswell, her mother Marilyn Bryant, father Lloyd Williams (Judy), brother Rev. Danny Williams (Debbie), Kevin Williams (Sue), grandfather Rev. Gaynor Blouin, many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and wonderful friends.Debbie's going home celebration will be at Fellowship of Believers, where she was a member. Rev. Don Lofler, Pastor officiating. Service is 10:30 AM on Monday. Visitation Sunday 5-7 PM at Wiegand Brothers Funeral Home, Sarasota. Interment will be held in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens, 1589 Colonial Blvd., at 2:30 PM

Fort Myers News-Press, Dec 1 2004 - Donald Paul Williams, 69, of Ft. Myers, passed away Sunday, Nov. 28, 2004. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio and was a paratrooper with U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Division. He and his wife moved from Cleveland to Ft. Myers in 1978. He was a member of the Church of the Resurrection of Ft. Myers, the Knights of Columbus, AMVETS, and the Screen Actors Guild. He had been acting in the local theater groups for many years and in 2000 had a part in the movie "The Crew". He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Theresa; 2 sons, Donald P. (Barbara) Williams, Ft. Myers, & David K. (Bridgette) Williams, Las Vegas; 2 sisters, Patricia Saker & Claire (Robert) McCann of of Cleveland; a grandson, Ethan Williams along with many nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother Russell Williams. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the Church of the Resurrection of Ft. Myers on Friday, Dec. 3, 2004 at 11:00 AM. Internment will be in the Holy Cross Cemetery, Columbus, OH .

Donna Mae Williams, age 62, of LaBelle, passed away December 10, 2004, in Fort Myers. She was born August 3, 1942, in Kokomo, IN. She was a longtime resident of LaBelle.Survivors include her son: Jeff Flora (Loretta) of LaBelle; daughters: Stacy Williams of West Palm Beach and Robin Howard (Shorty) of LaBelle, grandchildren. Dustin Flora, Michael Flora, Cody Flora, Kayla Flora, Nikki Howard and Chipper Waddell. She was preceded in death by her son, Michael J. Flora on December 8, 2004.A graveside funeral service was held December 14 at the Fort Denaud Cemetery with Reverend Lester Grant officiating. Interment followed at Fort Denaud Cemetery. Arrangements by- Akin-Davis Funeral Home-LaBelle.

Caloosa Belle, 9 Mar 2006 -- Dwight Harris Williams, Sr., age 79, of LaBelle, formerly of Loxahatchee, passed away February 27, 2006, in West Palm Beach. He was born Aug. 29, 1926, in Statesville, NC, to Byrd O. Williams and Dora (Souther) Williams. He served in the Navy. Survivors include sons: Kenneth W. Williams, Dwight H. Williams Jr., Dennis Williams; daughters: Betty A. Heninger, Sandi F. Hunter, Bonnie S. Whitehead; brothers: Owen Williams and Johnny Williams; sister: Tump Sloan; 16 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife: Mary L. Williams, daughter, Kathy Lee Niehaus and grandsons: Kyle Matthew Williams and Jeremy Hunter. Funeral services were held March 4 at Akin-Davis Funeral Home, in LaBelle with Rev. Johnny Jarriel officiating. Interment followed at Fort Denaud Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, July 7, 1950 - Edith L. Williams, 45, died Thursday night after a long illness. She had made her home for the past 28years. Born May 29, 1905 in Georgia. Surviving is her husband, A. D. Williams; five sons, James Ray Williams, Ambrose Williams Jr., Bobby George Williams, McArthur Williams, Curtis Andrew Williams; three daughters, Mrs. Helen Smith, Mrs. Dorothy Allbritin and Mary Emma Williams; two brothers, T. B. Phillips and J. W. Phillips of Winter Haven; sister, Mrs. Bessie Howell, Gainesville; her mother, Mrs. Emma Wall. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by the Leo W. Englehardt funeral home.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, November 11, 1954-- Funeral services have been set for 3 o'clock Friday afternoon for Mrs. Elizabeth B. Williams, age 55, who died here early Wednesday morning, from the chapel of Young-Harvey, with Mr. Eugene Henderson, pastor, Church of the Christ, officiating. Interment at the Fort Myers Cemetery. Her husband, A. C. Williams, preceded in death in 1937. Survivors include a son, Charles K. Williams, Tice, and a granddaughter, Kenette Kaye Williams. Active pallbearers are P. R. Crews, Jake Hunt, Lester Rizer, Jerry Anthony, Henry Jennings and Warren Jeffcott. Honorary pallbearers, LeRoy Higginson, Clyde Marshall, Stanley Jepson, Howard Summers, Ray Simpson and James Palmer.

Fort Myers News Press, 21 Dec 2005 -- Estle Durwood Williams, age 69, of Ortona, passed away December 18, 2005 in Ortona of Lou Gehrig's Disease. He was born January 29, 1936 in Ortona, the son of Henry Foy and Juanita (Easterly) Williams. Mr. Williams married Jessie LaVerta Potter December 3, 1955 at the Iona Community Church, Ft. Myers. He worked for area ranches as a Cowhand. He was highly educated in cows and hogs. He attended the International Christian Fellowship Church in LaBelle. Survivors include his wife: Jessie (Potter) Williams, sons: Darryl Williams of Ortona, Everett Williams (Janel) of AR, Everett Williams II (Edna). One daughter: Darla Greer (Robbie) of Palmdale, Sister: Minnie Hanson of Muse, a brother: Kirby Williams (Linda) of Immokalee, Sister-in-law, Frances Williams of Felda; Nine Grandchildren, Nine Great Grandchildren; Three step Great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 22, 2005 at 2:00 pm at International Christian Fellowship Church, LaBelle with Pastor Sammy Co officiating. Interment will follow in the Ortona Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at Akin-Davis Funeral Home, LaBelle. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home-LaBelle.

Fort Myers News-Press, -- Captain Eugene R. Williams, born July 7, 1912 to Thaddeus and Florida Belle Williams in Ft. Myers, FL passed away August 14, 2004 at his home in Sanford, FL. He was predeceased by his son, Whitney Eugene Williams. He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Florence, of Sanford, FL, his son Frank T. Williams (Mary) of Key Largo, FL, and his daughter, Candace Charles (Michael) of Sanford, FL. He leaves nine grandchildren; Michael, Frank, Jennifer (Ken), Bridgette, Amanda (Victor), Heather, Mary Kathryn and Whitney and eight great-grandchildren. Capt. Eugene Williams was from a Florida pioneering family who moved to the state in the early 1800's. Like his ancestors before him, Eugene's life was full and adventurous. During high school, he played football for Ft. Myers High School, which he graduated from in 1933. Upon graduation, he went to work as first mate on his father's charter yachts, and eventually was asked to captain the Porpoise, owned by Marineland of Florida in St. Augustine, supplying fish for the marine studio and for scientific study. Eugene also learned to fly at Emery Riddle School in Miami, FL and was a private flight instructor for the military in Arcadia, FL during World War II. He later moved to Miami and continued working as captain on luxury yachts before moving to Florida Keys where he purchased his first charter boat from Bucky Starke. Upon retirement, Eugene moved to Sanford, FL. Captain Williams' love of the sea and the many tales of Old Florida he imparted over the years will be sorely missed.

FORT MYERS PRESS - August 30, 1923 Following an illness of four years of tuberculosis, Mrs. Flossie E. Williams, age 28, died at her home, 56 Cottage street at 8:10 a.m. Monday. Before her marriage she was Miss Shannahan of Sanibel. She was married twelve years ago to Thomas A. Williams, a boatsman. Besides her husband, Mrs. Williams is survived by five children. The funeral of Mrs. Williams was to take place at 5 p.m. Monday at the First Methodist Church, South, the Rev. O. A. Thrower officiating. Burial will take place at the Fort Myers Cemetery.

FORT-MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Friday, December 15, 1972: Forest E. Williams, 90, of 338 Balboa Ave., Russell Park, died Thursday. Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Gladys Lundquist of Fort Myers and Mrs. Mildred Woodham of Jackson-(next line not legible)St. Louis, Mo.; 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Funeral service will be held today at 2 p.m. at Fort Myers Cemetery with the Rev. E. S. Anderson officiating. Friends may call at the federal home until 1 p.m. today. There is also an article: "Skipper Williams Dies at 90" F. E. (Skipper) Williams, who stored up a pile of memories in his 90 years, died Thursday. Those 90 years were packed with action and almost 50 of those years were spent in the Fort Myers area. Williams, of 338 Balboa Ave., Russell Park, probably knew central and southern Florida as well as any man who ever lived in the land. He started out as the son of a Cracker farming family in Suwannee County, born Oct. 13, 1882. He was a regular homestead farmer, speculating in the tomato business, operating a store, drilled well, fished, was a carpenter and was a boilerman. He and his late wife Victoria raised a fine crop of children, and they in turn raised a fine crop of Skipper's grandchildren including Mrs. Myron (Marilyn) Lawson with whom he spent his last years here and broadcasting personality Vernon Lundquist. Williams always loved the Florida sunshine and didn't stay lone with any job that took him out of it. But he always was working until he retired from the fishing business. His trades took him from Suwannee County to the Keys, from East Coast to West, but his home base was mostly Fort Myers. He outlived most of his contemporaries, but would chat about his Florida with his friends, smoking a cigar now and then, chewing tobacco when moved, sitting on the front porch and being a friend to his dog when human cronies weren't around to share a beer. "What I don't know would make a mighty big book," he once said, "but what I do know would make another." The book is closed now.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Thurs., Oct. 28, 1982 - Frank Thomas Williams,71, of Estero and Naples, died Tuesday October 26th in Bay Pines Veterans Hospital. He was born in Caxambas (Lee County), Fl., March 3, 1911 and lived all of his life in this area. He is survived by his wife, Sybil Williams; two daughters, Frances C. Tweed of St. Petersburg and Ramona Giroux of Norfolk, Va.; three brothers, Carl I. Williams of Ponce de Leon, Fl., T. Lawrence Williams of North Fort Myers and Eugene R. Williams of Miami; two sisters, Ruby Kipple of Franklin, N.C. and Elizabeth Peoples of North Fort Myers; two grand-daughters, Kris Ann Tweed and India Frances Giroux; also several uncles, aunts, nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Saturday at 1:00 p.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt's Funeral Home with Dr. Richard W. Rohrer of the First United Methodist church of Naples and Dr. Waldo Farabee of First United Methodist Church of Plant City officiating. Interment will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Dec. 15, 1933--Mrs. G. B.(Gene) Williams, the former Miss Gene Allen, daughter of Mrs. A. J. Allen, sr., of Fort Myers, died Wednesday night in Jacksonville after an illness of two years. At the time of her death, Mrs. Williams was a patient in a Jacksonville hospital where she had recently been removed from a sanatorium in Asheville, N. C. Funeral services for Mrs. Williams will be held at 3:30 o'clock this afternoon at the L. W. Engelhardt and Sons funeral home on McGregor boulevard. The Rev. Joseph F. Bell of the First Methodist church will be in charge of the services and burial will take place in the Fort Myers cemetery. Mrs. Williams' husband, G. B. Williams, will accompany the body to this city. She is also survived by her mother, Mrs. Allen, two sisters, Mrs. Irbie Johnson and Mrs. Allen Powell, and two brothers, Rob Allen and Capt. A. J. Allen, all of Fort Myers. Mrs. Williams was 34 years old. She grew up in Fort Myers and graduated from Fort Myers high school. Pallbearers for the funeral this afternoon will be F. B. Tippens, Dr. M. F. Johnson, Capt. A. N. Wintle, J. H. Hartsfield, Wm. F. Sutton and J. E. Yelvington.

Fort Myers News-Press May 10, 2009 George Williams, 89, peacefully passed away on May 3, 2009 in Ft. Myers, FL. George was born on September 6, 1919, on a small cotton farm near Cardwell, Missouri. George was the first of seven children of Ira Dalton and Myrtle Mae Williams. George left the quiet farm life to serve his country soon after the attack on Pearl Harbor. He served in the 32nd Division of the 128th Infantry. George was deployed to New Guinea where he was engaged in combat service until wounded. He subsequently served in General MacArthur's Australian headquarters when he met the love of his life, Fay Kelley. George married Fay on Thanksgiving Day 1944 at the Albert Street Methodist Church in Brisbane, Australia. They were married for 64 happy years. George was passionate about politics and education. He graduated from Arkansas State University with a degree in business education and political science. He went on to earn his masters degree from the University of Mississippi. He began his teaching career in Steele, Missouri and in 1958 became a high school teacher in Alva. He taught at N. Fort Myers High School and Edison Community College and was Chairman of the Business Education Department at Cypress Lake High School.George had an unwavering belief in Christ and was an active member of the First United Methodist Church. As a testament to his faith, he took great pride in personally greeting all new members and visitors to First United Methodist Church.George served for a number of years as Chairman of the local Democrat Party and was a founding member of the South West Florida Chapter of Phi Delta Kappa. He was an avid amateur radio operator (W4KOB) and introduced many others throughout the world to his enjoyable hobby.George is survived by his sisters (Audrey and Dorothy); his son George (Ellen) Williams, of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL; his grandchildren, Renee Williams, Erin (Troy) Pinta and Kelly (Amy) Williams;and his great grandchildren Adam, Dalton, Gavin, Austin and Jacob whom he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by his true love of 64 years Fay Kelley Williams; his parents, Ira Dalton and Myrtle Mae Williams; and his siblings James Edward, Gracie Wayne, Winford and Lester.The family would like to thank the caregivers who provided compassionate support to George during his illness.Memorial services will be held at the First United Methodist Church, 2466 First Street on Wednesday, May 13 at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to First United Methodist Church of Ft. Myers or a charity of your choice in honor of George Williams. Arrangements by Anderson-Patterson Cremation & Funeral

Ft Myers News-Press, March 16, 2001 - Glasper Lavelle Williams passed away Sunday, March 11, 2001. Funeral services for Glasper LaVelle Williams will be 10:00 a.m., Saturday, March 17, 2001 from Hickson's Funeral Home. Interment to follow in Lee Memorial Park. Visitation will be 6 - 8 p.m., TODAY from Hickson's Funeral Home. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Hickson Funeral Home, 3696 Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Fort Myers, Florida. 334-6440.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, March 7, 1974 A North Fort Myers pioneer and rancher, Hugh M. "Dad" Williams, 79, died Wednesday. He was a lifelong resident of North Fort Myers. A second genertion Lee Countian, he was a member of The Seventh Day Adventist Church, Rabe O. Wilkison Post 38, American Legion and the Pioneer Club.He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Lee Williams; one daughter, Mrs. Christina Huffmaster; a stepdaughter, Mrs. Hazel Williams, all of North Fort Myers; a son, Hubert L. Williams of Vacaville, Calif.; a sister, Mrs. Neil Williams of Phoenix, Ariz.; 11 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren. Funeral service will be held Friday at 3 p.m. from the chapel of the Harvey Funeral Home with Elder O. H. Bentzinger of the Seventh Day Adventist Church officiating. Burial will be in New Prospect Cemetery. March 8, 1974 - Funeral services for Hugh M. (Dad) Williams, 79, of North Fort Myers, will be held today at 3 p.m. in the chapel of the Harvey Funeral Home with Elder O. H. Bentzinger of the Seventh Day Adventist Church officiating.Honorary pallbearers will be George Prevatt, W. F. Huffmaster, Bernard H. Moore, John Lanier, Walter Kaune III, and Howard Whitehead. Active pallberers will be Vance Sweeting, Samuel Sweeting, Michael Huffmasater, Jerry Seward, Neil Gordon and Bill Caprefall. Burial will be in New Prospect Cemetery in North Fort Myers.

THE FORT MYERS PRESS, Thursday, Feb. 14, 1901-- Mr. J.B. Williams of Marco, died in Ft. Myers last Sunday.

Caloosa Belle Sept 2, 2009 Jessie James Williams, age 80, of LaBelle, passed away Aug. 30, 2009, in LaBelle. He was born July 4, 1929 in Athens, Ala., to the late Charlie Williams and the late Lenetta Ridgeway Williams. Jessie was a resident of LaBelle for the past fifty-five years and worked for many years as general contractor. When he moved to LaBelle, he began working for Brown Tiger Ridgdill. He also worked for George Burchard and Bill Maddox. He eventually became a general contactor and worked with his family in construction for many years. Survivors include his wife, Dean Williams; sons, Ricky Williams (Sue), Gary Williams (Rose) and Mark Williams (Diane), all of LaBelle; brothers and sisters, Biladine, Estel, Arlene, Linda, Sherri, Steve, Frankie, Kipp and Terry; grandchildren, Joy Walters, Jenna Williams, Ginger Williams, Angela Taylor (Eddie), Doug Williams (Tracy), Garrett Williams, Crystal Corbitt (Phil), Lisa Chapman (Blake) and Brian Williams; and great-grandchildren, Dalton Walters, Jessie Taylor, Justin Taylor, Tanna Williams, Piper Williams, Rylan Corbitt, Micah Corbitt and Bailey Chapman. Funeral services were 9 a.m., Wednesday Sept. 2, in Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle with Ralph Nicholson officiating. Interment followed in Ortona Cemetery, LaBelle. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Fort Myers News-Press Sep 24, 2005 Joel A. Williams Jr., 65, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday, September 20, 2005 at his home in Ft.Myers. He was a lifetime Florida resident and a member of Crossroads Baptist Church. Joel was previous owner of Williams Hardware in E. Ft.Myers.He was preceded in death by his father J.A. Williams, Sr. Joel is survived by his mother, Louise Williams, his wife, Rena Williams, daughters, Cindy Beams, Renae Brabham, son-in-law Danny Brabham and grandchildren Laci Harrell, Joey Harrell, Tyler Brabham and Dillon Brabham.Visitation will be Sunday, 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Anderson Funeral Home. The funeral service will be Monday at 11:00 a.m. at Crossroads Baptist Church.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Nov. 21, 1932--John Williams, 53, who had been ill for several months at his home on Bay street, died at 5:30 yesterday. The body was taken to Fort Ogden by Lawrence A. Powell, where funeral services were conducted yesterday afteroon by Rev. Mr. Tooke. Mr. Williams is survived by his father, N. K. Williams, two brothers, J. E. and Leon Williams, five sisters, Mrs. Carrie Sloan, Mrs. Floyd Daughtrey, Mrs. Bertha Tippins, Mrs. Effie Lanier and Mrs. Eva Lewis, and a son Oscar williams. He formerly lived at Ft. Ogden, but moved here on account of his health.

Caloosa Belle, June 28, 2007 -- Joyce Williams, age 72, of Port Saint Lucie, passed away June 26, 2007 in Royal Palm Beach. She was born Feb. 13, 1935, in Pahokee, to V.D. Whidden and Mervine (Jarvis) Whidden. She was a former longtime resident of LaBelle.Survivors include two sons: Toby (Kathy) Williams of Middleburg, George E. (Laurel) Williams Jr. of Port Saint Lucie; three brothers: Gene Whidden of LaBelle, Johnny Whidden of LaBelle, Lucky Whidden of Fort Pierce; grandchildren: Joell, Robin, Jennifer, Susan, Toni and George Williams III; great-grandchildren: Kyle, Francisco, Alexis, A.J., Christian, Gavan, Taylor, Rebecca, Raelynn, Kasey and Connor. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, George Williams Sr. Funeral services will be held Sat., June 30, 2007, at 10:00 am at Fort Denaud Cemetery in LaBelle with Rev. Bob Miller officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 7-9 p.m. at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Ft Myers NewsPress, 2004-04-27 - Julia E Dickson Williams, born May 7, 1919 in Ft. Myers, died Friday, April 23, 2004. She was a granddaughter of Edward Marshall Williams a pioneer whose family moved to the Ft. Myers area in 1883. She was a lifelong resident of Ft. Myers. Julia was predeceased by her husband Clare J. Williams. She was a partner in Frey's Prescription Shop until her retirement, a member of the Lee Memorial Hospital Auxiliary for over 35 years and a volunteer with the SW Florida Historical Society. She is survived by sons Larry G. (Hannelore) Williams and Gary A. (Trudy) Williams, sister Margaret D. Frey, 6 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Funeral service will be on Wednesday April 28, at 11:00 AM, family will greet visitors one hour prior to service at Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd., Chaplain Tom Rickards will officiate. Interment will follow at Ft. Myers Cemetery on Michigan Ave.

Fort Myers News-Press Jul 6,2008 Laddie Ray Fabian Williams was born December 4, 1933 in Saginaw, Michigan to Ray L. and Ruth Williams, school teachers in Saginaw and later at Standish Michigan. Moved to Fort Myers, Florida as a teenager and graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1951. He earned the Eagle Scout Award in the Boy Scouts and was the Lodge Chief of the Calusa Lodge of the Order of the Arrow. Mr. Williams also was presented with the E. Urner Goodman Portfolio by the Osceola Lodge 564. After a year at the University of Florida he returned to Fort Myers and established a business building homes. He returned to the University of Florida and earned a bachelor's degree and Masters Degree in Education with a major in Vocational Education. He worked in the Career Education Center as placement and follow-up officer when these services were first offered in the Alachua County Public Schools. He was a loyal Gator Fan. He then became one of the first Computer teachers in the Alachua County School System, teaching at Howard Bishop Middle School. Laddie retired from the Alachua County School Board in June, 2000. He was a member of the Trinity Methodist Church in Gainesville. He also was a member of the Gainesville Camellia Society. His wife, Sandra Howell Williams of Gainesville, formerly of Micanopy, survives Laddie. He is also survived by his brother and sister in-law Jerry and Martha Williams of Orlando, FL. He is also survived by his daughters, Paula Williams of Alachua, Shannon Hopkins of Starke, FL, Kristie Ward of Lake Butler, FL and a son, David Williams of Gainesville, FL. Grandchildren are Desiree and Danielle Williams, Kyle Reyes, Scott and Lenora Hopkins, and Morgan Arnold, Dustin Williams, Cory and Brittany Fischer. He is also survived by his step-children, Mozelle Yawn of Hazelhurst, GA, Jackie Allen of Micanopy, FL, Emory Christian of Rogers Arkansas, Janet and Clay Allen of Virginia Beach and numerous step grand-children and great-grandchildren. The family will receive friends on Monday, July 7th from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Milam Funeral Home, 311 S. Main Street, Gainesville. A Service of Remembrance will be held Tuesday, July 8, 2008 at 11:00 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church Chapel, 4000 NW 53rd Avenue, Gainesville, FL.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Sund. May 12, 1946 - Mrs. Lula May Williams, 52, died yesterday afternoon at her home in Pinecrest. She leaves her husand, Robert Williams; five daughters, Mrs. Walter Brown, Mrs. Lawrence Harrison, Mrs. Todd Gritch, Miss Rose Williams and Miss Birdie May Williams; three sons, Robert, Lee and Herman Williams; her father, James M. Howell; a sister, Mrs. nettie House and 3 brothers, Colin, Hardy and Walter Howell. Funeral arrangements are in charge of Lawrence A. Powell.

Fort Myers News Press--Nov 7, 2007 Marvin Lonnie Williams, age 84, of Ortona, passed away November 4, 2007 in Ortona. He was born Feb. 19, 1923. Marvin served his country in the U.S. Navy on the aircraft carrier "Cisco Bay". The remaining of his life was spent as a rancher, butcher and the best cook in the world. He was a lifelong member of the Ortona Holiness Church. Marvin will always be remembered as having the most generous and giving heart. He believed in and had total faith in his God without waver. To him, his family was his greatest joy and the time he spent with them was what he was all about. Survivors include his four daughters: Cassie M. Williams of Ortona, Dorinda W. (Sal) Campos of Ortona, Stephanie S. (Eddie) Sherrod of Centre, AL, Londa M. Williams of Ortona, son: Gerald V. Smith of LaBelle, twelve grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents: Lonnie R. Williams and Juanita (Townsend) Williams, sister, Cassie J. Williams, wives: Doris A. (Wooten) Williams and Geraldine (Jackson) Williams, infant daughter, Lonell C. Williams Funeral services will be held Thu. November 8, 2007 at 2:00 pm at Ortona Holiness Church in Ortona. Interment will follow at Ortona Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday, Nov. 7 from 6-8 p.m. at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-10-17 - Mary L. Williams, age 78, of LaBelle, passed away Oct. 15, 2004 in LaBelle. She was born Oct. 25, 1925 in Siler City, NC to George W. Fogelman and Ida Jones Fogelman. Survivors include her husband: Dwight H. Williams, Sr., sons: Kenneth W. Williams, Dwight H. Williams, Jr. and Dennis Williams, daughters: Betty A. Heninger, Sandi F. Hunter and Bonnie Whitechad, brothers: Jimmy and Robert Fogelman, sister: Margaret Fogelman, sixteen grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter: Kathy Lee Niehaus and grandsons: Kyle Matthew Williams and Jeremy Hunter. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 19, 2004, 3:00 PM at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle with Pastor Sammy Co, Rev. Johnny Jarriel and Pastor Bob Moore officiating. Interment will follow in Fort Denaud Cemetery. Visitation is Monday, 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the funeral home in LaBelle. Friends are invited to share a meal with the family immediately following the funeral at International Christian Fellowship, 233 S. Clark St., LaBelle, FL. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home-LaBelle.

Fort Myers News-Press, 17 Mar 2005-- Mary St. Jacobs Smith Williams, 82, a retired educator died Monday, March 14, 2005. A native of Jacksonville, Mrs. Williams had lived in Tallahassee for the past 16 years. She was a resident of Ft. Myers, where she had taught physical education and health at Dunbar High School and Lee Middle School for 33 years. Mrs. Williams graduated from Stunton Senior High School in Jacksonville in the class of 1941. She received her Bachelor of Science from North Carolina College at Durham, and her Master of Science in physcial education from Indiana University. She was a charter member of the Theta Nu Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., a member of Phi Delta Kappa teacher's fraternity, the Sor-Frat Club, Friends Forever, Daughters of the Elks Lodge and since 1946, a member of Mount Olive AME Church, where she had served in several capacities including being a member of choir No. 2. Survivors include a daughter & son-in-law Renee S. Tolliver & Edward G. Tolliver of Tallahassee; a son, Calvin E. Freeman & wife Michelle of Ft. Myers; five grandsons, Steven B. Powell, Michael W. Toliver & Marvin Freeman, Christopher Freeman & Erric Freeman; and two granddaughters, Alexis Freeman and Cuoshatta Tolliver. Mrs. Williams was preceded in death by her husbands, Willie Smith in 1978 and Edward C. Williams in 1985. The service will be at 11:00 AM Friday at Mount Olive AME Church in Ft. Myers with burial at Ft. Myers Cemetery.Viewing will be Today from 6 PM to 7:30 PM at Mount Olive AME Church. Local arrangements by Hickson Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-08-22 -- Medford D. (Med) Williams, a resident of Alva for over 50 years, passed away Friday morning in Cape Coral, one week prior to his 87th birthday. Med was born in Anderson, AL and came to FL in the late 1930's as a saw mill operator and later became a state employee for 30 years as a bridge tender in Alva on the old turn bridge and ended his career operating a new drawbridge. Many will remember Med for his skills as a raccoon hunter and trapper, as well as his love of family, friends fishing and playing cards. Survivors include his wife: Hallie Williams, sons: Arvin of Ft. Myers, Dale of Alva, daughters: Irene Newman of Plant City, Sue Luckey of Alva, Patty Allen of Lehigh, step-children: Edward Walker of Hollywood, CA, Edna Whidden of Belle Glade, sisters: Lerlene McConnel of Anderson, AL, and Brina Nelson of Five Point, TN, 17 grandchildren and a host of great & great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by sons Adrian and J.D. Williams. Funeral services will be Monday, August 23, 2004, 10:30 AM at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle with Reverend George Henderson officiating. Following interment at Alva Cemetery, the family will welcome friends at the Woodmen Lodge, 2850 Packinghouse Rd., Alva for refreshments and fellowship. Visitation will be Sunday, Aug. 22, 2004 from 1-5 PM at the funeral home in LaBelle. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home-LaBelle.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Feb. 11, 1935--Mrs. Pearl Williams, wife of Aerial H. Williams, operator at the Arcade theater, died at the Lee memorial hospital last night of pneumonia. She was 32 years old. She is survived by her father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. John C. Hedrick, and a son, George, and four brothers, Ralph, Hugh, Harold and Murl Hedrick, and a sister, Mrs. William Strickland. The body will be sent to Vinennes, Ind., today by Undertaker Lawrence A. Powell for burial. Mrs. Williams had just returned from Vincennes to attend the funeral of a sister and a cold taken there developed into pneumonia

THE NEWS-PRESS, May 8, 2006-- Ralph J. Williams, 74, died May 8, 2006 in Fort Myers, FL. He was born July 8, 1931 in Fort Myers to the late Getzon J. Williams and Annie (Summerall) Williams. Ralph is survived by his brothers, Bert (Carol) Williams and Earl (Francell) Williams; sisters, Norma J. Bundy, Corine (Dave) Harrison, and Peggy A. Miller. A private service will be held at a later date. Lee Memorial Park 334-4880.

THE NEWS-PRESS - May 26, 2002-- Richard 'Dick' Freeburn Williams, 75, of St. James, FL, died May 26, 2002. He was born Jan. 15, 1927 in Sarasota, FL. He was a son of the late Archie and Edith (Freeburn) Williams. He is survived by a sister, Carlie J. Young, Fort Myers, brother, Archie C. Williams (Marjorie) Menisott Beach, NC; Charles S. Williams of Naples, George A. Williams, No. Ft. Myers, nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. Mr. Williams was a US Army WWII veteran. He was a supervisor for Robb & Stuckey Furniture and Interior Design and a lifetime resident of Cape Coral. Cremation entrusted to Fuller Funeral Home.

THE NEWS-PRESS, May 22, 2006-- Robert M. Williams, Jr., 88, formerly of Fort Myers, FL, passed away in Ocala, FL on May 22, 2006. He is survived by his children, Robert M. Williams III (Vivian); Avanah Jent (James), Georgianna McDaniel (Dawson); 6 grandchildren: Joy, Hope and Brantley Williams, Jami Hommerbocker, George and Anna McDaniel. Funeral services will be onducted on Friday, May 26, at 11 a.m. at Heath Funeral Chapel in Lakeland, FL with committal service at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL at 2:30 p.m. Memorials may be made to Legacy Hospice House, 9505 SW 110 St., Ocala, FL 34482.

Fort Myers News-Press--April 12, 2009 Robert Wood Williams, Jr., 82, of Fort Myers, FL, was born in Baltimore, Maryland, on November 20, 1926 to Robert Wood Williams and Helen Gibbs Williams. He graduated from Yale in 1947 and earned an MBA from New York University in 1958.Bob met his wife, Rosetta Marie Adams Williams, better known as "Jeff," while they were teaching in Lebanon at the American University of Beirut and the Beirut College for Women, respectively. They were married in Beirut on June 22, 1951.Bob had a varied career as an economist, banker, consultant, and executive at various organizations, including the Bank Nationale de Paris, the World Bank, and the Hartford Business School in Paris. Most of his career was spent in the Middle East, Europe, and North Africa.In the early 90's, Bob and Jeff chose Fort Myers to build a state-of-the-art energy efficient home with a native plant garden. He was founding director for the Home Ownership Resource Center of Lee County, a position he held until retiring at age 80. He was recognized by Mayor James Humphrey for his efforts on behalf of the citizens of Fort Myers to obtain low-interest home loans to rebuild in the aftermath of Hurricane Charley.Bob loved to play tennis and delighted in singing. He was a member of the Whiffenpoofs, Yale's a cappella singing group. He was also an avid sailor who crossed the Atlantic in his 27-foot boat Ishtar as part of the Christopher Columbus 500th Anniversary Flotilla.Bob is survived by his wife, Rosetta M. Adams Williams; his son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Robert W. Williams III and Kathryn Graehl of Memphis, TN, and grandsons Alexander and Evan Graehl Williams; his daughter and son-in-law, Leslie Adams Williams Silbergh and Alan C.M. Silbergh of Oakland, CA; his brother and sister-in-law, Rufus M.G. Williams and Sheila Janey Williams of Glyndon, MD; and his sister, Cornelia Williams Baldwin of Chicago, IL.Bob was a vibrant, creative and intelligent man with great generosity of spirit, good humor, and charm.His family is planning a memorial for early 2010 in Fort Myers to celebrate his life.

THE FORT MYERS PRESS, Dec. 18, 1926--Mrs. Sarah Williams, better known in Fort Myers as "Aunt Sarah," a resident here for twenty-seven years past, died at her home, 1914 Evans avenue this morning at 5:30 a.m. One of the most respected among the colored residents, and owner of considerable properties in the city, Aunt Sarah has long been a familiar figure in the city. She formerly lived at Cleveland avenue and Johnson street where she owned a large block of property. She is survived by a daughter, Ella M. Piper of this city, a grandchild, Willie Reed of New York and three great grandchildren in New York. The funeral will probably be held Tuesday, but arrangements have not yet been completed, pending word from relatives at a distance.

Caloosa Belle, 20 Sep 2007 -- Sandra Lee (Sayre) Williams, age 78, of Nashville, Ark., formerly of LaBelle, passed away Wednesday, Sept. 12, 2007, in Nashville, Ark. She was born Aug.13, 1929 in Indianapolis, Ind., to Russell A. and Clara A. Taflinger Sayre. She was a homemaker and a veterinarian assistant. She moved to Nashville in the early 1970"s with her husband where they started a veterinarian practice. She was a protestant. She loved cooking, working on the farm beside her husband and she loved animals. She was a member of Tri Delta Sorority. She was preceded in death by four sons, Steve, Lee, Mark and Hank Williams. Survivors include her husband of 57 years, Dr. Jack Williams of Nashville, Ark.; daughter, Donalyn Williams of Nashville, Ark. and a host of friends. Graveside services were held Tuesday, Sept. 18, at Ortona Cemetery. All arrangements were under the direction of Akin-Davis Funeral Home, LaBelle and Nashville Funeral Home, Nashville, Ark.

Fort Myers News-Press, 14 Dec 2006-- Sybil Ramona Hiers Williams: A Florida Pioneer Life Born in Medulla, Florida in Polk County on September 14, 1915, to George Martin Hiers Sr. and Ruby Lee Hicks Hiers, Sybil Ramona Hiers Williams departed this life on December 12,2006. Her life and achievements spanned nine decades and many Florida locations. Growing up in rural Polk County Florida, she helped her paralyzed grandfather tend his orange grove. After graduating from high school she overcame many obstacles to receive a B.S. degree from Florida Southern College in Lakeland. She attended school for 16 years while raising children, teaching school and helping her husband run a dairy and other business ventures. Her greatest passion in life was teaching children. Her 33 years of teaching included a multi-grade, one room schoolhouse on Sanibel Island, as well as classes in Gasden and Collier Counties. She taught children in Everglades City and Chokoloskee, retiring in 1973 after teaching for many years at Shadowlawn Elementary in Naples. Children in her classes enjoyed unique activities, such as learning about geography while taking an imaginary trip around the world. After retirement she spent many happy years in her home in her beloved Naples, where she enjoyed walking, volunteering in classrooms, learning to use a computer, and attending services at the First United Methodist Church, where she was a long time member. Sybil was also an active member of the order of the Eastern Star for more than 50 years, a life member of Florida retired educators, and a member of the Beta Kappa Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma. She is survived by her two loving daughters, Frances C. Tweed of St. Petersburg, Florida, and Ramona W. Giroux of Longmont, Colorado, three grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and by many loving nieces, nephews and loving friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Frank Thomas Williams, two beloved brothers, O. K. Hiers and George Martin Hiers, and one sister, Miriam H. King. The family will receive friends Friday, December 15, 2006 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Muller-Thompson Funeral Chapel, 2011 Pine Ridge Rd. Naples.Service will be held the First United Methodist Church, 388 First Avenue South, Naples,10:30 a.m., Saturday, December 16, 2006, followed by entombment in the Fort Myers City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Florida United Methodist Children's Home at www.fumch.org or by phone at (386)668-4774. Muller-Thompson Funeral Chapel(239)597-8888.

Fort Myers News-Press May 8, 2008 Thelma Louise Williams, age 92, of LaBelle, passed away May 6, 2008 in Lehigh Acres. She was born May 10, 1915 in Sweetwater, FL to the late Thomas Allen Altman and the late Locia (Durrance) Altman. She was a resident of the area for the past seventy-two years.Survivors include daughter: Joan Wilkison(Horace) of LaBelle, five grandchildren, and numerous great and great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband: James Blount Jr., second husband: T.L. "Smiley" Williams, daughter: Sue Williams Martin. A graveside services will be held Fri. May 9, 2008 at 10:00 am at Ortona Cemetery, 12870 W. SR 78, Moore Haven. Donations may be made to Oakbrook of LaBelle, 250 Broward Av., LaBelle, FL 33935.Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Fort Myers News-Press 31 Jan 2008-- Thomas (Jack) Williams of Fort Myers, Florida passed away on January 28, 2008. He was born in Dalhart, TX to John and Ethel Williams on June 4, 1921. He has resided in Fort Myers, FL since 1943.He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Jean Moraine Williams; two sisters, Lois Grupe Warrenburg of Clarendon, TX and Nell Barnhill of Amarillo, TX; his two daughters, Jill Hinson (Terrence) of Hinsonton, GA and Jina Browder of Fort Myers, FL; five grandchildren, Bo Hensley, Ashley Hensley (Jaymes), Jami Browder, Jacki Jones (Seth), and Lindsley Mathison; and many beloved nieces and nephews.Jack was a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force where he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross Award. He flew many different types of planes, and flew 151 combat missions in the Pacific. He was a decorated veteran receiving numerous honors and awards. After World War II, Jack and Jean moved to Fort Myers, FL where he was a partner in the Frizzell Architectural firm. When he retired in 1985, Jack and Jean spent most of their new found free time in Franklin, NC visiting with friends and family.A grave side memorial service will be held Friday, February 1, 2008 at 3:00 p.m. at the Fort Myers Memorial Gardens, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

Fort Myers News-Press, Wed., March 28, 1986, Hendry Co.-- Thomas Lee "Smiley" Williams, 73, passed away Tuesday in Naples Community Hosptial. He was a lifelong resident of the area. He is survived by his wife, Thelma, of LaBelle; a daughter, Joan Wilkinson of Naples, one sister, Fay Rimes of Zolfo Springs, FL, 5 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren. Services will be Thursday at 11 a.m. at the Ortona Holiness Church with Rev. J. E. Lowe officiating. Interment will be in Ortona Cemetery. Akin-Davis Funeral Home, LaBelle is in charge of arrangements.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, January 20, 1961: Mrs. Victoria Williams, 73, of 113 Balboa, Russell park, died suddenly Thursday evening at her home. She had been a resident here for the past 37 years. Survivors include her husband, F. E. Williams, two daughters, Mrs. Gladys Lundquist of Fort Myers and Mrs. Mildred Woodham of Jacksonville, one son James R. Williams of Paloalto, Calif., 14 grandchildren and several great grand children. She was a member of Russell Park Baptist church. Funeral arrangements will be announced by the Harvey Funeral Home.

Fort Myers News - Press 2004-10-10 -- Virginia Lee Blanco Williams, 90, of Brevard, NC died Thursday October 7, 2004. She was a native of Ft. Myers, Fl., the daughter of the late Louis and Hattie Blanco. Her husband, Bard H. Williams and a son, Bard "Bimby" H. Williams, Jr, also preceded her in death. Mrs. Williams was a charter member of the Church of God; an award winning Master Gardner, accomplished pianist and composer of gospel music, and a bible scholar. Survivors include her four children, Paul Sheridan Williams of Inverness, FL, Linda Arlene McCosh of Brevard, Patti Ann McQuattie of Reno, NV, and Stephen Michael Williams of Hillsborough, NC; a sister, Ruby Griffin of Arcadia, FL; ten grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and one great great-grandchild. Private services were held. Moore Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Williams, Willard

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, January 31, 1943 -- William Henry Williams, 82 years old, died last night at his home on McGregor Boulevard from a long illness. He leaves his wife, Mrs. Ella Williams, and five sons, J. J., I.M., P. J. & W. L. He has made his home in Lee County for the past 30 years, coming from Baker county. Lawrence A. Powell is in charge of arrangements which will be announced later.-- FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, February 1, 1943 -- Funeral services for William Henry Williams, 92 years old, who died at his home Saturday night, will be held at 2 o'clock this afternoon from the Lawrence A. Powell chapel on First Street, with the Rev.Leroy Crider officiating. The following will act as pallbearers: L. E. Horne, J. N. Griner, Frank Pedgett, Alvin Gorton, Tom Harrison, Lester Curry. The honorary pallbearers will be Harvey Hobbs, Ernest Harrison, Coleman Crawford, Newton Robinson, Woodrow Robinson, Riley Wilkes. Interment will be in the Fort Myers Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, June 18, 1951-- William Lee Williams, 53, died yesterday morning in a Clearwater hospital. He had been a resident of Fort Myers for 43 years. Mr. Williams is survived by his wife, Mrs. Mable Williams, and four brothers: Ira M. of Fort Myers, J. J. of Jacksonville, A. B. of Orlando and P. J. of Clearwater. McQueen & Young Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. Interment in Fort Myers Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press, Dec 31 2004-- Elizabeth K. Williamson, 59, of Ft. Myers died December 28, 2004 in Bell, FL. She was born in Fort Sill, Oklahoma and was a member of Church of God. Elizabeth is survived by her husband James Ray Williamson of Bell, FL, mother Doris Martin of LaBelle, FL; daughter Lurine Floyd of Fanning Springs, FL, Kathy Landrum of N. Ft. Myers; sons Ron Williamson of Fanning Springs, Troy Williamson of Ft. Myers, David Williamson and Raymond Williamson both of N. Ft. Myers and a sister Carolyn Saunders of Oregon.Arrangements by Watson Funeral Home, Trenton, FL.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, Aug. 26, 1927--The body of Henry Williford, who was struck by a log and killed yesterday morning at the J. W. McWilliams sawmill at Slater, will be taken to his former home in Mississippi today for burial by his wife and their three children. Williford was guiding a log into the whirling circular saw when the log was flipped out of the runway and crashed down on him. He was rushed immediately to the Lee Memorial hospital where Dr. Baker Whitnant was ready to operate, but Williford died during the trip. The body is being prepared for burial at L. W. Engelhardt's undertaking establishment.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, Sept. 6, 1930--Mrs. Bertha Willis, 57, wife of H. F. Willis, Atlantic Coast Line conductor, died at her home at 42 Second street last night following a prolonged illness. The body was removed last night to the Lawrence A. Powell funeral home. It will be held there awaiting instructions from Mrs. Willis' brother in Inverness, where burial is to take place.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, June 23, 1975 -- Carl Oscar Willis, 25, of Felda, died Saturday evening at Hendry General Hospital.  Born in Jacksonville, he was a lifelong resident of Felda.  He was a member of the Eastside Baptist Church in LaBelle, the LaBelle Quarterback Club, alumni of the 4-H and Immokalee Saddle Club. Survivors are his wife, Deborah; one son, Chad Owen; one daughter, Crista Lynn; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Willis, and one brother, Jack L. Willis, all of Felda. Funeral service will be Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Eastside Baptist Church in LaBelle with the Rev. C. W. Hammil, Jr. and the Rev. John Bowen officiating.  Burial will folow in Fort Denaud Cemetery.  The family will receive friends at the Pattison Funeral Home in LaBelle today from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a memorial to the Jacksonville State Children's Home, Jacksonville FL through which Carl Willis was adopted.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Oct. 17, 1931--Harmond C. Willis, 58, died at 2 o'clock yesterday afternoon at his home on 1011 Crawford street. He had been in ill health for some time. Born in South Carolina on Feb. 6, 1873, Mr. Willis spent most of his life in his native state and in Georgia. He came to Fort Myers in August, 1920, establishing an electrical busines here. Always active in any cause seeking to promote the betterment of Fort Myers, Mr. Willis was one of the first organizers of the Fort Myers band, serving as manager and an active member for several years. He was associated with several local lodges, being a member of the Masons, Shrine, Knights Templar and Woodmen of the World. Funeral arrangements have not yet been made. The body is at the chapel of the Lawrence A. Powell Funeral home. Mr. Willis is survived by his widow and two daughters, Mrs. H. C. Colbert of Miami and Mrs. V. L. West of Tampa.

Fort Myers News-Press May 7, 2008 Jack Augustus Willis, age 84, of North Fort Myers lost a hard fought battle with pancreatic cancer on Sunday morning May 4, 2008. He was born to Arthur B. and Annie Lou (Simmons) Willis in Sopchoppy, Florida on September 2nd 1923. His family moved to Fort Myers where he lived for most of his life. He always tried to instill a sense of responsibility in his children as a lesson from the Great Depression. He was a World War II Veteran in the European campaign taking part in the Normandy invasion. When the war was over he stayed on as a peace keeper and was an honor guard at the Potsdam conference in between President Harry Truman, Joseph Stalin and Winston Churchill. He was awarded the Purple Heart for the injuries he received while in Holland. After the war, he became an Iron worker. He was married to Martha Jane White of Hartwell, Georgia on August 3, 1950, while he was working on the construction of the Hartwell Dam. In 1963, he settled into a house that was built by his brother John on 2626 Lafayette St. in Fort Myers. He retired as an Iron Worker in 1975 and built a worm farm in the back yard of his Lafayette Street home and opened Willis Bait and Tackle shop with his wife. In 1980, he and his wife moved to North Fort Myers and commuted to the bait shop every day. He lost Martha to diabetes in 1992 and finally retired himself in 1999. He enjoyed talking politics with anyone who would listen and held strong opinions. He was very well known around the neighborhood and enjoyed talking with the neighbors on his walks. He had a green thumb for growing fruit, vegetables and flowers. He watered and cared for his plants even as his health deteriorated. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in December of 2007. Jack was well known for his sense of humor and his kind heart. He was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years Martha (White) also by his brothers John Willis (Jeannette), Lonnie Willis (Edith), Norris Willis (Ovida-Mae), Warren Willis (Ina), and Gwynne. He is survived by his 6 children Jack W. Willis (Cheryl) of Montgomery, AL, Deborah Nodine (Steve), Dan L. Willis (Teresa), Ben Willis, Dwain Willis and James Willis (Lorna) all of Fort Myers, FL. He is also survived by his sisters, Doll (A.J.) Allen of Fort Myers, Bernice (Solon) Duncan of Olga, FL, and Mary-Lou (Mancel) Marle of Arkansas. His grandchildren are Darrell, Darcy, Jeremiah, Jessica, Jamey, Josh, Jake, Kinsey, and Cherry. His great grand children are Alyssa, Danielle, Travis, and Joshua. He also leaves behind 15 nephews and 7 nieces. Viewing will be Wednesday evening May 7th from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM and funeral services will be Thursday Morning May 8th at 10:00 AM at Anderson Funeral Home at 3654 Palm Beach Blvd. with Pastor Tom Rickards presiding. Pallbearers will be his five sons Jack, Dan, Ben, Dwain, Jim and his grandson Darrell. Burial will follow at the City of Fort Myers Cemetery on Michigan Ave. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that you make a donation to Hope Hospice in Jack's name.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Saturday, April 2, 1988 -- Rodney Allen Willis, 27, of LaBelle died Thursday in Fort Myers. He was a lifelong resident of the area.  He is survived by his wife, Terri; two sons, Rodney and Brandon; his parents, Carolyn and Cecil Willis; his maternal grandmother, Bessie Tillet; his paternal grandmother, Laura Willis; two brothers, Roy and Daryl; and a sister, Tammy Sue Fortune, all from the LaBelle area. Services will be Sunday at 2:00 p.m. at the Eastside Baptist Church with the Rev. Wesley Hamil officiating. Friends may call today from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Akin-Davis LaBelle Chapel.  (Interment in Fort Denaud Cemetery)

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, 2004-07-07 -- Albert Floyd Wilson, 93 years, of Ft. Myers died July 4, 2004. He was born in Buckingham, FL the son of the late William and Lilly (Upchurch) Wilson. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, William, sister Nellie and son Britt Pomeroy Sr. and grandson Francis Pomeroy.Mr. Wilson was a local citrus grower and agriculture inspector with the State of Florida for many years.He is survived by his loving niece Mary Louise Conley of Ft. Myers and her daughter Linda, his children Louise and Ed Wladren, Alice Pomeroy, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, many cousins and dearest friend Bobby and Mazie Howard. Visiting hours will be held Thursday July 8, 2004 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd., Ft. Myers with a funeral service at 1 PM. Burial will follow in theFt. Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press April 21, 2009 Andia Denise Wilson, 30 of Naples, Florida died at the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida on Tuesday, April 14, 2009 after courageous battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.She was born in Naples, Florida on June 28, 1978, beloved daughter of Jodi Wilson and Larry Green.In addition to her parents, Andia is survived by her loving spouse and significant other, Edgerrin James Sr; her adored children, Edquisha James, age 11, Eyahna James, age 7, Edgerrin James, Jr; age 4 and Euro James, age 2. Also survived by her grandmother, Viola Fuller. A Funeral Service and Celebration of Andia's Life will be held on Wednesday, April 22nd at 1:00 P.M. at the First Baptist Church of Naples, 3000 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Visitation at the church on Wednesday, prior to the service, from 11:00 - 1:00 P.M. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to Avow Hospice, 1095 Whippoorwill Lane, Naples, Florida 34105. www.fullerfuneralhome.com

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, August 11, 1936--Mrs. Caroline Muller Wilson, 86-year-old South Florida pioneer, died last night at her home on Marsh avenue afater an illness of five months. Members of her family, one of the most widely known in Lee county, were at her bedside when death came. Mrs. Wilson, widow of the late Francis James Wilson, came to Fort Myers from Quincy, Fla, 62 years ago when there were only a few families living here. Her husand was one of the first county commissioners and also served Lee county in the legislature as a representative. Mrs. Wilson had eight children of which four daughters are now alive. She was the mother of the late Mrs. R. A. henderson, sr. In addition to 11 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren, Mrs. Wilson is survived by four daughters. They are Mrs. Lena E. Lutkins, Mrs. C. L. Starnes and Mrs. Carmen Prince of Fort Myers and Mrs. R. L. Mitchell of Jacksonville. Mrs. Wilson was an ardent worker in the First methodist church and her home always had one room reserved for visiting or resident ministers. An orphan when she was four years old, Mrs. Wilson was raised together with former Governor Mitchell of Florida. Funeral services will be held at 10 o'clock tomorrow morning at the First Methodist church with the Rev. G. F. Roberts of Sarasota officiating. The Engelhardt Funeral home has charge of arrangements.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Wednesday, July 11, 1990 - Donald Frederick Wilson, 59, born in Lakeland, Fla. Feb. 24, 1931 passed away July 8, 1990 at his home at 1011 South town and River, Fort Myers. He was a member of McGregor Baptist Church.  He was a resident of Fort Myers, since 1951. Don was the President of Wolfer Produce Company since 1975, a family business his father and he started in 1951. He is survived by his wife, Maebelle Wilson; sons, Mitch Melvin, Dwain Melvin, Terry Melvin, Keith Melvin, Warren Melvin all of Fort Myers; brothers, William Karl Wilson of Brevard, N.C., Smoot Wilson of Tampa, Olin Wilson of Fort Myers and Billy Wilson of San Marcus, Texas. uneral services will be conducted today at 3 p.m. from the hapel of the Harvey-Engelhardt Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd., with Rev. avid Goins officiating. Pallbearers will be employees of Wolfer Produce, Gregory L. Davis, George Frank, Robert D. Applegate, Darin Davis, Dale Austerman, Jim Bearly, Paul Rider, David Staubs and Randy Poffenbarger.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, March 3, 1931--George Baker Wilson, jr. died at the residence of his parents at 887 Desota avenue Sunday afternoon at 6 o'clock. The services will be held from the Lawrence A. Powell chapel this afternoon at 3:30. Interment will be in Fort Myers cemetery with Rev. W. H. Edwards officiating.

Fort Myers News-Press June 1, 2007 Kathryn Louise Bartleson Wilson passed away on May 26, 2008. Kathryn was born to Porter Bartleson and Geraldine Carson Bartleson on September 7, 1925 in Fort Myers, Florida. She was the granddaughter of Frank Carson and Kate Gerald Carson. Kathryn was preceded in death by her son Charles George Sanders. Kathryn has been married to Edgar Arthur Wilson since September 1, 1951. They have two sons, Giles Gerald Wilson and Edgar A. Wilson, II. They have five grandchildren, Edgar A. Wilson, III (Trey), Matthew Robert Giles Wilson, John Patrick Hart Wilson and Katie Marie Wilson. Kathryn has one grandchild Deni, daughter of Charles Sanders and Sharon Savage . Kathryn worked at the ticket office of the Arcade Theatre during World War II. From there, she watched the "Greatest Generation" soldier boys from Buckingham Field woo the daughters of Fort Myers Finest to start the "Baby Boom generation". Kathryn married a soldier boy herself. It is fitting that she passed on Memorial Day. A celebration of Kathryn's life will be held in the future. All friends and family will be notified at that time.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Thursday, July 9, 1998 - Maebelle (Hamilton) Wilson, 63, a lifelong resident of fort Myers, passed away on Tuesday, July 7, 1998. She is survived by her five sons and their spouses; Mitch (Joni) Melvin of Lehigh Acres, Dwain (Vicki) Melvin of Cincinnati, OH, Terry (Pam) Melvin of Cape Coral, FL, Keith (Dawn) Melvin and Warren (Dawn) Melvin both of Fort Myers; four brothers; Eugene (Shirley) Hamilton and Thomas both of Key Largo, FL, Harvey of Pine Island and Jerry of Tampa; one sister, Irene (Paul) Higgins of Fort Walton Beach, FL; nine grandchildren and a close friend Dick Perkinson of DelRay Beach, FL. The family will receive family and friends for visitation on Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service at 3:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Entombment will be private in the Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. FT. MYERS MEMORIAL GARDENS FUNERAL HOME -1589 COLONIAL BOULEVARD -936-0555

Fort Myers News-Press, Dec 27 2004-- Morrie Wilson, 82, passed away peacefully December 24, 2004. Morrie was blessed with the gift of spreading laughter which will be missed by all that knew him. He was born July 18, 1922 in Fayetteville, IA, graduated from Beloit Wisconsin High School in 1941 and served in the Army Air Corps in the South Pacific during WWII. He moved to Pine Island, Florida in 1989 after retiring as a General Contractor in St. Paul, MN. Morrie is a member of Abiding Love Lutheran Church and the Pine Island VFW and American Legion. He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Marjorie, two sons, Greg (Lisa), Kent (Jill) and two daughters, Lisa DeRose (Tony), and Paula Wilson, eight grandchildren, one great-grandchild, sister Bernice Sciacca, brother Frank and many nieces and nephews. Memorial service will be held at Abiding Love Lutheran Church, Chiquita and Gleason, Cape Coral, Florida .

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Sept. 17, 1938--Ray Ralph Wilson, two-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Wilson of Tice, died yesterday morning at the home of his parents after a short illness, of pneumonia. Survivors besides his parents, are a brother, (spot on film)rwood Lee, and a sister, Helen. Services will be held at 3 o'clock this afternoon at the Church of God with the Rev. John E. Douglas officiating. Lawrence A. Powell is in charge of arrangements.

The News-Press on 7/2/2008. Roberta M. Wilson, 83, of Fort Myers, passed away on Monday, June 30, 2008. She is survived by her son; George (Jeri) Porter, 3 grandchildren; Kim (Jerry) Lemonde, Kevin (Shelly) Porter, and Jennifer (Brian) Ellis, great-grandchildren; Kelsey & Jeremy Lemonde, Riley & Kylee Porter, and Olivia Ellis, brother; Ramon (Pat) Schafer, and sister; Clara Jones. Visitation will be on Thursday, July 3, 2008 from 10-11am at Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home, 12777 SR 82, Fort Myers, FL, with a Graveside service to follow at 11am at Lee Memorial Park Cemetery, (239) 334-4880.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - December 3, 1954 Naples - Thomas J. Wilson, 76, Sunshine Acres, died Saturday. A retired carpenter, he had been a resident of Collier County for 32 years. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Rosa Wilson; a son, daughter, brother, three sisters, stepdaughter and two stepsons. Funeral service will be Wednesday at 1 p.m. at the Earl G. Hodges Funeral Chapel with the Rev. W. R. Richwine of the Assembly of God Church officiating. Burial will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, February 1, 1943 -- William Maynard Wilson, 81 years old, died at his home in Olga Sunday morning after a long illness. He leaves his wife, Mrs. Lillie E. Wilson, a daughter, Mrs. Nellie Craval; two sons, William F. Wilson and Floyd Wilson; and a granddaughter, Miss Mary Louise Munder. Funeral arrangements are in charge of Lawrence A. Powell.
FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, February 2, 1943 Wilson Rites Today Funeral services for William Maynard Wilson, 81, who died at his Olga home Sunday morning, will be held this afternoon in the Lawrence A. Powell chapel at 2:30 with the Rev. Milner C. Brittain officiating. The following will act as pallberers: Frank Walker, Chas. Brunner, George Prevatt, Dave Goggins, Joe Louis and Thomas Prevatt. Interment will be in the Fort Myers Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press, Aug 15 1998-- Chadbourne S. Wiltshire, 78, of North Fort Myers, died August 13, 1998 in Cape Coral. A native of Fort Myers, Mr. Wiltshire was involved in banking locally and was a civic leader for many years. He is survived by his wife, Virgie of North Fort Myers; daughters: Linda Owens and Catherine Palmquist both of North Fort Myers; sister, Helen Serrill of Fort Myers and three grandchildren. Memorial services will be conducted Monday, August 17, at 10:00 a.m. from the First Christian Church of Cape Coral, 2620 Country Club Blvd. with the Rev. Clayton Hunt officiating. CORAL RIDGE FUNERAL HOME

Fort Myers News-Press--25 Dec 2007 Elizabeth Alice Hartsfield "Libby" Wiltshire, 94, a lifelong resident of Fort Myers passed into eternal life on Saturday, December 22, 2007, at home surrounded by her loving family. She was pre-deceased by her beloved husband of 43 years, Warren B. "Bud" Wiltshire, in February 1974. She was born in Fort Myers on June 16, 1913, to Bessie and Newton Hartsfield. She was graduated from Fort Myers High School with the class of 1930. Libby was the third generation of her Southwest Florida pioneer family to be a devoted member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church. An avid gardener and accomplished seamstress, she served on both the Flower and Sewing Committees of St. Luke's Episcopal Churchwomen. Banners and vestments that she constructed are still in use.Libby's membership in Fort Myers Country Club Women's Golf Association, where she served as handicap chairman for the Nine Hole Group, spanned more than 40 years.Libby's civic involvement included many years of membership in Fort Myers Woman's Community Club and the Edison Pageant of Light, where she proudly supported the participation of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren in these activities and events.Although Libby spent her college years at Florida State College for Women, she was an enthusiastic Gator fan. She regularly attended University of Florida football games in Gainesville and throughout the SEC for over 50 years, from the time her children were in school at UF until recently.The main focus of her life has always been her family. Libby leaves a treasured legacy, including memories of the many wonderful family gatherings and trips that she initiated through the years. She is survived by her sons James D. Wiltshire (Susan) of Hamilton, Massachusetts, and Warren B. Wiltshire, Jr., (RubyJean), and her daughter Nancy Wiltshire Roberts, all of Fort Myers. Her 12 grandchildren are: James Wiltshire, Jr., of Chicago, IL; Elizabeth Wiltshire-Gordon (Jacques) of Wilmette, IL; William M. Wiltshire (Serena) of Washington, D.C.; Caroline Wiltshire (Terry Johnson) of Gainesville, FL; Warren B. Wiltshire, III, of Tampa, FL; Lynn Cantisano (Chip); Elizabeth Wiltshire Marlow; William B. Wiltshire (Mary Chris); Richard Roberts (Deborah), all of Fort Myers; Tris Roberts (Maria) of Naples, FL; Michael Roberts of Lake City, FL; and Ronald Roberts (Amy) of Charlotte, NC. She has 16 great-grandchildren. She also leaves her sister-in-law, Shirley S. Wiltshire of Gainesville, FL; her niece, Nancy Hartsfield Pollock (Richard) of Freeport, FL; nephew Keith Hartsfield (Patsy) of St. Petersburg, FL, numerous Wiltshire nieces, nephews, and grandnieces and grandnephews.Visitation at St. Luke's Episcopal Church will be from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, December 26. Services at 10:30 AM, Thursday, December 27, at St. Luke's Episcopal Church. Private interment at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 2635 Cleveland Avenue, Fort Myers, FL 33901, or Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908.

Fort Myers News-Press, 21 Oct 2003-- Ruth McGarey Wiltshire was born in Kentucky on June 9, 1923 and passed away on Oct. 10, 2003. She joined the US Navy at around the age of 18. She was a W.A.V.E., stationed in Virginia during WWII. There she met Chad Wiltshire of Ft. Myers, after they married they moved to Ft. Myers and later divorced in the late 60's. Ruth worked at a few different jobs over the years, but where most of her friends know her is from her 22 years spent at Maas Brothers Department Store. She is survived by 2 daughters and 3 grandchildren; Linda Ruth Owens and her daughter Kelly Owens Taylor both of Ft. Myers and Catherine Wiltshire and 2 daughters Lindsey and Laney Palmquist of Ft. Myers. Ruth's ashes well be put to rest in North Carolina per her request. Any donations to Hope Hospice would be appreciated.

Fort Myers News-Press, 26 Mar 2000-- Virgie Mae Wiltshire, 78, of North Ft. Myers, FL, died Friday, March 24, 2000, in Cape Coral, FL. She was born in Iron Hill, KY., and had lived in N. Ft. Myers 35 years. Member of the First Christian Church in Cape Coral, former owner of Flossie Hill Dress Shop in Ft. Myers. Survived by a daughter, Mary Lou (Timothy) Hennigan of Cape Coral; son, Paul (Bernadette) Brown of Nashville, TN; sisters, Bess Reese of Cape Coral, Ruie Newland of Lexington, KY, Kaye Brammell of MI; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by her husband, Chad Wiltshire, and daughter, Donna Hall. A Service of Remembrance will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday at the First Christian Church in Cape Coral. The Coral Ridge Funeral Home and Cemetery is in charge of services.

Fort Myers News-Press March 12, 2008-- Esther Winfrey, 93, of Fort Myers passed away on March 10, 2008. Born in Chicago, IL she had been a resident of Fort Myers since 1923, owned & operated the White Wagon hamburger stand in downtown Fort Myers for 25 years and worked at Sears for over 17 years.She is survived by her son, Julian Winfrey; granddaughter, Leslie Winfrey; great grandchildren, Trowa and Christian; sister-in-law, Layuna Brannan; and nieces, Karen Rhoades and Barbara Longer. She was predeceased by her husband, Bart Winfrey. Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 13th at the Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd. from 5-7pm with funeral services beginning at 7pm. Graveside services will be on Friday at 10:30am at the Fort Myers Cemetery

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Saturday, September 6, 1956-- Noah Lyndon Wine, this area's first scoutmaster, died in the Lee Memorial Hospital early yesterday after a short illness. He was 80. Born in Kingsport, Tenn., Jan. 7, 1876, he moved from Palo, Ill., to Fort Myers in 1910. Between 1910 and 1920 Wine helped organize the first scout troop here and was its first scoutmaster. During this time he worked on the Poinsettia, an old-time fruit boat that cruised the Caloosahatchee River. He also owned and operated with his brother, J. B. Wine, a repair shop called "Wine Can Fix It." Wine moved from Fort Myers in 1920 to Virginia and became an electrical superintendent for the Army. He spent 10 years in the Panama Canal Zone as chief electrician for the Army. He retired in 1940 and moved back to Fort Myers. Wine was a life-long member of the Methodist Church and was active in church and Sunday School work. He was a past master of the Warwick Masonic Lodge of Virginia and ranked high in that state's Masonic Order. At the time of his death he was president of the East Fort Myers Improvement Assn. He is survived by his wife, Jennie Wine; 3 sons, Lyndon Wine, Florence, Ala.; Lt. Col. Leonard Wine, Air Force, Omaha, Neb.; and Lt. Col. Chester B. Wine, Washington, D.C.; 6 daughters: Mrs. Ernest S. Cleek, Hot Springs, Va.; Mrs. Ernest Armory, Grafton, Va.,; Mrs. James McDaniels, Fort Myers; Miss Eleanor Wine, Schoolcraft, Mich.; Mrs. Russell Meissner, Balboa, Canal Zone; Mrs. Howard DeVore, Fort Myers; a sister, Mrs. Eva Griffith, Petaluma, Cal.; 28 grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at the Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home at 11 a.m. Monday with the Rev. L. D. Patterson of Tampa officiating. Rev. Patterson is a former pastor of the Edgewood Methodist Church. The local Masonic Lodge will be in charge of graveside services at Fort Myers Cemetery. FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, September 9, 1956-- Funeral services for Noah Lyndon Wine will be held Monday at 11 a.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with Rev. L. D. Patterson officiating. The Masonic lodge will have charge of services at Fort Myers Cemetery. The lodge will furnish pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Elmer Davies, Earl Hendry, Victor Frantz, Clarence Sherouse, Leon Williams, R. M. Dart.

Fort Myers News-Press--March 20, 2009 Sol Winer, 87, of Fort Myers, passed away Wednesday, March 18, 2009. He was born July 20, 1921 in St. Paul, MN and moved to Fort Myers from Edina, MN in 1987. While in Minnesota, he was a franchisee of McDonalds and Burger King Restaurants. He was a Marine Veteran of World War II serving in the South Pacific from 1941 - 1945 in Guadalcanal and Iwo Jima. Mr. Winer is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jessie Winer of Fort Myers; three children: Steven Winer (Linda) of Fort Myers, Rollie Fischer of Fort Myers and Debra Gordon (Irwin) of Cape Coral; one brother, Sidney Winer (Gerri) of St. Paul, MN; two grandchildren: Jane Abbott and Cheri Yochelson (Dan) and three great-grandchildren: Samantha, Josey and Scott. He was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Jeffrey Fischer in 2005.Graveside services will be conducted at 12:00 PM on Sunday, March 22, 2009 at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hope Hospice of Lee County, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908 or online at: http://www.hopehospice.org/donate, Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33908.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, August 29, 1963 - Ernest Herbert Wingate, 57, died Tuesday at his home on Tennessee Street, Bonita Springs.  He was a commercial fisherman. Surviving are his daughter, Mrs.Louise Annette Izell; two sons: Ernest David Wingate and Herbert Gadson, all Bonita Springs; two brothers, Noah S. Wingate of Pensacola and F. A. Wingate of Fort Myers, and a sister, Mrs. Carrie Peterson, of Pace, Fla., and a grandson, Robert Wayne Wingate. Funeral will be tomorrow at 10 a.m. from Hodges Funeral Home in Naples with the Rev. David Lanier officiating.  Friends may call from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 today.  Interment will be in Bonita Springs Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, January 5, 1968 A pioneer resident of Fort Myers, Mrs. Nellie Russell Wintle, died Thursday. She was 84. Mrs. Wintle, born Aug. 23, 1883 at Clearwater, was one of the first school teachers in Fort Myers. She also was a member of the First Methodist Church and the True Heart Bible Class. Mrs. Wintle is survived by her husband, Capt. Arthur N. Wintle; three daughters, Mrs. Floyd W. Ellis, Mrs. Floyd Lackey and Mrs. James Moore; a son, A. R. Wintle of Fort Myers; two brothers, Walter Russell of Brawley, Calif. and Leonard Russell of Fresno, Calif; 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. The funeral will be Saturday at 3:30 p.m. at the First Methodist Church with Rev. Robert B. Chapman, Jr. officiating. Burial will be in Fort Myers Cemetery. Those who prefer may make contributions to the Altar Guild of the First Methodist Church. Honorary pallbearers will be Manuel Conquaretto, Frank Brown, Bud Wiltshire, F. Ewing Starnes, Sidney Davi s, Dennis Black, Carl Roberts, R. Q. Richards, Sr., Jimmy Roberts, Wilson Starnes and Charles S. Moore. Active pallbearers will be Russell Wintle, Jr., Allen Floyd Ellis, Arthur Ellis, Greg Olson, Charlton Tooke III and Allen R. Ellis.

WINKLER Christopher Philip

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, Nov. 2, 1933--Funeral services for Dr. W. B. Winkler, 74 year old pioneer citizen and physician, who died Tuesday night, will be held at 3 o'clock this afternoon at the First Methodist church. The Rev. Joseph F. Bell will have charge of the services. Pallbearers have been selected from a group of family friends and pioneer citizens and burial services at the Fort Myers cemetery will be conducted by members of the I.O.O.F. Members of the Odd Fellows are requested to meet at the lodge rooms at 2:30 o'clock and attend the services in a group. The active pallbearers will be R. A. Henderson, Walton Gilliam, Ted Evans, Vernon Widerquist, Charles Powell and J. B. Parker. Honorary pallbearers will be J. E. Maharrey, Richard Welch, Frank Hibble, Grover Gerald, Virgil C. Robb, L. M. Stroup, George R. Lynn, sr., Capt. E. L. Evans, William J. Wood, C. P. Staley, Simon Loeb, F. Irving Holmes and F. B. Tippens. Members of the Lee county medical association will act as escorts.-- FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, November 1, 1933 --Pioneeer Dies (photo) DR. W. B. WINKLER DIES AT HOME IN SEMINOLE PARK; ILL FEW WEEKS Pioneer Physician Lived In Fort Myers For Many Years Dr. W. B. Winkler, pioneer practicing physician, died at home in Seminole Park. Death came as the result of uremic poisoning whcih had confined him in bed for the past three weeks. At the hour of his death, Dr. Winkler was attended by members of his family and Dr. Baker Whisnant. Hundreds are the persons that Dr. Winkler had attended during the 34 years he practiced in Fort Myers and Lee County. In addition to his wide practice, for many years Dr. Winkler operated a farm and grove on Whiskey Creek. In the early cowboy days, Dr. Winkler attended his scattered patients by riding horseback and later he insisted on driving his own car up until recently when he suffered a light stroke. It was a well-known fact that Dr. Winkler had officiated at more births than any other pioneer physician in South Florida. He is survived by his wife, one brother, one daughter and one son. Of these, only his wife, Mrs Winkler, and his daughter, Mrs. Effie Winkler Henderson, reside in Fort Myers. The body will be cared for at the Lawrence A. Powell funeral home and announcement of the funeral date will be made later.

Fort Myers News-Press Nov 4, 2008 Jack Arnold "Shaky" Winters, age 66, of LaBelle, passed away October 30, 2008 in Fort Myers. He was born Aug. 7, 1942 in New Brighton, PA. Jack was a resident of LaBelle for the past thirty years and was a member of the Moose Lodge in LaBelle. He was a loving husband and father. Survivors include his wife: Pat Winters, sons: Herb Unkefer, Jack (Connie) Winters Jr., Tony Ray (Robin) Winters, all of LaBelle, FL, daughters: Becky (Kenny) Warren of Winter Haven, Laura (Roger) Warren of LaBelle, Lucretia Pruitt of Winter Haven, seventeen grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father and mother: Chester Ray Winters Sr. and Mildred Miklos Winters and brothers: Chester Ray Winters Jr. and James Winters.Funeral services will be held Wed., Nov. 5, 2008, 12:00 noon at Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle with Pastor Jeff Zimmerman officiating. Visitation will be Wed from 10:00 am until time of service at the funeral home.Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Fort Myers News-Press--23 Oct 2007 Rita Wirick, 86, of Fort Myers passed away Sunday, October 21, 2007. She was a believing member of the Villas Wesleyan Church. She is survived by her loving husband of 47 years William W., daughter Rita Marie Jackman; 3 granddaughters Amy Buchanan, Tina Masters and Jennifer Bergamo; 3 great-granddaughters Brittany Clark, Michelle Steiner and Jessica Bergamo; 3 great-grandsons Travis Buchanan, Shane Steiner and Brandon Buchanan; 2 sisters Fedora Watterson and Olga Martin; 3 nieces Linda Immenzo, Joan Polk and Nancy Silvestri; nephew Thomas Martin; grandniece Vanessa Polk; 2 grandnephews Nathan Polk and David Beida.A visitation will be held between the hours of 6-8 PM on Wednesday, October 24, 2007 at the chapel of Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home. A 2nd visitation will be held on Thursday from 1-3 PM with service to follow.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, January 31, 1982 -- Clinton Robert Wittmer, 54, of Fairview Ave., died Friday. A native of Vermillion, Ohio, he had been a resident here for the past four years. He was a member of the AmVets of Sandusky, Ohio; the Masonic Lodge No. 177 of Collins, Ohio; the American Legion Post No. 38 and the V.F.W. Post No. 2444. He is survived by his wife, Daisy, three sons, Eugene, John and Robert ; a daughter, Doborah Behnke, all of Sandusky, Ohio; a stepson, Frank Homitz of Vermillion, Ohio; a stepdaughtrer, Mary Lou Foreberger of Fort Myers; two brothers and also three sisters. Funeral services wil be conducted Tuesday at 10 a.m. from the Chapel of the Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd., with Rev. Dudley Gerald, pastor of the Church of the Nazarene, officiating. American Legion Post No. 38 will be in charge of the services Monday evening at 7 p.m. in the funeral home. Friends may call Monday from 7-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Cremation will follow

Fort Myers News-Press, 18 Feb 2007-- Buster James Wolf, 82 born May 17, 1924 in Fort Myers, Florida to parents Charles Christian and Bessie Corbitt Wolf died Thursday February 15, 2007 at Lehigh Regional Hospital. Buck spent all his life in Immokalee except for two years that he served in the Navy during World War II.He retired after working 30 years as project engineer with the Department of Transportation for the State of Florida. He was an avid hunter and spent many happy weekends hunting with his sons in the Everglades.Survivors include his wife of 60 years, 8 months Doris Whidden Wolf, sons Jimmy (Debbie) and Ricky (Rolene) Wolf, daughter Janice DeLisle (Steve); grandsons Michael Wolf, James DeLisle (Maricella), granddaughter Andrea Anzualda (Noel), and Rica Wolf; great-grandchildren, Noel Anzualda Jr., Kaitlin Anzualda, Amanda DeLisle, and Kayla Mays.Visitation will be held at First Baptist Church, Immokalee, Monday, February 19, 2007 at 10 AM. Service will follow at 11 AM with Pastor Richard A. Fountain officiating. Burial at Baptist Cemetery. Family entrusted care to Brister Funeral Home, Immokalee, FL.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Sept. 29, 1938--Charley Wolf, 42, dropped dead yesterday of what Dr. Johnson diagnosed as heart failure while working with a crew of laborers preparing strawberry beds on a farm in the Bayshore neighborhood. The case was investigated by Deputy L. H. Furen. Peace Justice Roy Lamberton said no inquest would be necessary. Wolf is survived by his father, Karl, and a sister, Mrs. A. L. Winsenberger of Brooklyn, N. Y. Lawrence A. Powell is in charge of funeral arrangements which will be announced later. Dr. Johnson operates the farm on which Wolf was working. Fellow laborers summoned Dr. Johnson when Wolf fell dead.--FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Friday, September 30, 1938 - "Charley Wolf, world war veteran, who died of heart failure Wednesday, will be given a military funeral at 2 o'clock this afternoon by the American Legion at the graveside in Fort Myers cemetery. J. A. Kitchens, post chaplain, will have charge of the services. Members of the Leion are asked to meet at the Lawrence A. Powell chapel at 1:30 o'clock."

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, March 8, 2007- Edward T. Wolf, 85, of Cape Coral, FL passed peacefully into death on March 3, 2007 at The Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center of Cape Coral. Ed was born in Chicago, IL on September 30, 1921 and worked for 40 years as a Tool & Die Maker for Western Electric in Cicero, IL from where he retired in 1981. Upon his retirement, Ed and his wife Margaret (Ryan) moved from their home in LaGrange Park, IL to Cape Coral where they have shared the past 26 years. Ed served during WWII in the United States Coast Guard and was a proud lifetime member of VFW Post #8463 in Cape Coral. He had a unique gift of truly impacting every life that he touched. His dry humor and quick wit made him a favorite of many. He was preceded in death by his son Dennis and leaves behind his loving wife Margaret (Ryan), his daughter Nancy Russo of Fort Myers, his stepchildren Robert O'Donnell, Kevin O'Donnell, John O'Donnell, Barbara O'Donnell and Terese Obney, 17 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. A service will be held on TODAY, March 8th at 12 pm in the chapel at Coral Ridge Funeral Home with entombment to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made VFW Post #8463 of Cape Coral, FL.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS--9 Nov 2007 Robert Jennings Wolf passed away Wednesday, November 7th, 2007. Robert had an inspiring love of life, family and animals. His huge heart and kind words will be forever missed. He is survived by his mother, Lari Maciag, step-father Frank Maciag, his step-sisters Cassandra and Leonie Maciag, his best friend Roger Patch and parents, his great grandmother Anna Egbert, his beloved dogs Chip and Maggie, 2 uncles Ron and Mike Egbert, an aunt Shela Weaver, along with several other extended family members. He is preceded in death by his grandparents Evelyn and Joseph Egbert, and his uncle Joey Egbert. Services will be held Saturday, 3 pm at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Friends may visit from 1 pm until the time of service. The family requests donations in lieu of flowers to assist with funeral expenses. www.fortmyersmemorial.com

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, October 23, 2004 - Sylvia Wolf, age 80, of Estero died on Thursday, October 21, 2004 at the Cleveland Clinic Hospital, Naples. Born on May 9, 1924 in Brooklyn, NY to Barnett and Ida Kaplowitz, she has been a resident of Estero for the past 20 years. Mrs. Wolf was employed as a bookkeeper but mostly enjoyed being a hommaker who was devoted to h= er husband and family. She was a member of Temple Beth-El in Ft. Myers. She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Harry Wolf, her sons, Allan J. (Sara) Wexler of Rochester, NY, Martin L. (Sui) Wexler of Tarzana, CA, her daughters, Alyce L= . Aspler of North Lauderdale, FL and Valerie W. (Robe= rt) Gropper of Poughkeepsie, NY, 6 grandchildren and ma= ny loving friends. A funeral service will be conducted by Rabbi Bruce Diamon= d on Sunday, October 24, 2004 at 12 Noon in the Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Fun= eral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd= . (239) 936-0555. The burial will follow in the Temple Beth-El Section of t= he Ft. Myers City Cemetery. Shiva will be held at the family residence from Sunday evening until Tues= day.

Fort Myers News-Press Sep 4, 2009 Robert (Bob) WolfsKeil, age 89, of Fort Myers, went home with Jesus August 27th. Born in Elizabeth, NJ on Nov. 30, 1919 to George F. WolfsKeil and Julia K. Powers, he was a gifted boy soprano in the High Episcopal Boys Choir and sang on the radio. In WWII he served in the Army Air Corps as a radio operator and sang in many USO shows. He lived in Fort Myers for 57 years and was employed by National and Pan Am Airlines where he was remembered for his exceptional service. He was a Power Squadron instructor, a member of VFW, sang in Lyons Club minstrels, and was a member of the McGregor and Central Baptist Churches. Bob also lived in Franklin, NC for 25 yrs. where the Longview Comm. Club honored him for his leadership and service. He joined the Franklin Gem Club and the First Baptist Church, where he sang in the choir and many of the church musicals.He is survived by his dear wife of 66 years, Priscilla Balsley WolfsKeil; sister, Julie Hall, of Alva; daughter Karen (Brien) Smith and grandson Daniel (Krystal) Smith (Ft. Myers); granddaughter Dana (Mark) Heath (Seneca, PA); and two great grandsons, Kaleb and Logan Heath.Visitation from 12:00 to 2:00 and a funeral service at 2:00 will be held on Sunday, September 6 at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens, 1589 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33907; Pastor David Schwein officiating.Bob was a truly gentle man, loving husband and father, loyal friend, and a child of the King.

Fort Myers News-Press, 2004-05-02 -- Ray Bryan Womack, Sr., 76, was born to Willie & Mary Burkhart Womack on March 12, 1928 in La Porte, Indiana and passed away in his sleep on April 30, 2004 in Palmdale. He served in the U.S. Navy for five years during WWII and worked for the U.S. Postal Service until his death. His favorite pastimes were the areas of genealogy and horticulture. Survivors include his loving wife: Merel, sons: Ray Jr. and Jerry Frank, daughters: Mary Risley and Norma Womack, eleven grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Brenda Sue Womack and great-grandson: H.B. Billings. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to your favorite charity. Cremation arrrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home-LaBelle, Florida.

Caloosa Belle-July 17, 2008- Athalie Willis Womble, age 86, of LaBelle, died June 30, 2008, in LaBelle. She was born April 11, 1922, in LaBelle, to the late Reverend William Wesley Willis and the late Annie May (Purviss) Willis. Athalie was known and loved by many people and known by them as "MaMa." She loved the outdoors and would work among her many flowers and tend to her vegetable garden. She felt closest to God when she was working in the soil. Athalie loved God's creation; to her, even a weed was beautiful because it had life. She loved cats and dogs, but especially cats. Many cats were made very happy by her care and attention. Athalie was of the Baptist faith. For many years she taught Sunday school, sang in the church choir and was very faithful in attendance to church. She loved her Lord and certainly knew Jesus Christ as her redeemer. Survivors include her son: Jeffrey Brian Womble; grandchildren: Eric Lenwood Darby, Ronald Eugene Logan, Gina Elaine Logan and Guy Bryan Pickett II; eight great-grandchildren; niece Regina Bush and nephew: Geoffrey Black. She was preceded in death by her husband: Joseph Carlton Womble; daughters: Ida Dell Darby and Mary Frances Spencer; grandson: Lee Austin Darby; sisters: Dagmur Omar Willis, Ethelwyn Willis, Leta Romaine Black and Adra Long and six nieces.Funeral services were held July 3 at Akin-Davis Funeral Home Chapel in LaBelle with Reverend James Daniels officiating. Interment followed in Fort Denaud Cemetery, LaBelle.Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, August 3, 1936--H. M. Dick Wood, 36, Slater sawmill worker, was instantly killed at dawn yesterday on the Edison bridge when he was struck by a pickup truck driven by Charles W. Gaskill of Sarasota, Tampa Tribune carrier. A coroner's jury decided the accident was unavoidable after Gaskill testified that he had been blinded by the lights of an approaching truck and witnesses said Wood had been drinking. Wood's body was badly mangled. The impace of the car threw him into the windshield and broken glass gashed his head. Both legs were broken and one was almost completely amputated. Wood, who had spent the evening at Pirates Cove, was walking toward Fort Myers when the truck caught him from behind. He was without shoes and had stepped directly in the path of the truck. Gaskill, who said it was his first accident in seven years of driving the route, said he took to the sidewalk when he saw the man in front of his truck but was unable to avoid striking him. He said Wood "staggered" as he walked. Basil Simmons also testified that Wood was staggering. Simmons passed Wood shortly before the accident. Raymond Raulerson told the coroner's jury that Wood had been drinking. The accident was investigated by Chief Deputy Sheriff E. P. McAuley and Homer Klay. Deputy McAuley placed Gaskill under arrest and held him in jail until he was cleared by the coroner's jury verdict. Gaskill said he was driving between 25 and 30 miles an hour at the time. Wood's death was the second casualty of the night in traffic accidents. Earlier in the evening Mr. D. C. Powell, also of Slater, was struck down by a car driven by Albert Hord on the highway in front of Pirates Cove. Hospital attaches late last night said Powell's condition was serious because of a head injury. Powell is being treated by Dr. Guy A. Longbrake. Powell, 50-year old mill worker, was crossing the highway when the accident occurred. He stepped back to avoid a car coming from Fort Myers and was hit by Hord, traveling in the opposite direction. No charge has yet been made against Hord pending the outcome of Powell's injuries. Wood had worked for the past two months as a sawyer for the Dowling-Camp Lumber company. He is survived by a wife and three children who make their home at Wabasso near Ft. Pierce. His body was removed to the Lawrence A. Powell funeral home. Members of the coroner's jury who decided the accident was unavoidable were Dan Morrison, Grady Kirkpatrick, V. G. Howard, Ernie Leifand, D. C. Stovall and Cliff Herndon.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, Dec. 10, 1927--The body of R. V. Wood, 57, Fort Myers grocer, who died yesterday morning, was taken to his home in Toledo, O., yesterday afternoon. Mr. Wood, who has been an invalid for several years, conducted a grocery on the Tamiami Trail. He is survived by his wife and son, Roy S. Wood.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Sunday, Nov. 8, 1992--Esperanza Lorraine Woodring, 91, of Woodring Point, Sanibel passed away Nov. 6, 1992. Esperanza was first-born of the 12 children of Manuel and Rosa Almas. Born on the Island of Cayo Costa on July 7, 1901, she lived 77 of her 91 years at Woodring Point. She spent three quarters of a century on Sanibel waters where she worked as a commercial fisherman and fishing and shelling guide. Predeceased by her husband, Samuel B., Sr. in 1942, she is survived by two sons, Preston R. Woodring, Sr of Ft. Myers and Ralph S. Woodring of Sanibel; 9 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Her survivors also include sisters, Edith Reina of Tampa and Betty Lamason of Hawthorne, Nev.,; and brother, William Almas of Ocals. A graveside service will be conducted at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 1992 at Fort Myers Cemetery. Family and friends may also pay last respects to Esperanza on her beloved Woodring Point at 1816 Woodring Rd., at 4 p.m, Nov. 10, 1992...Funeral arrangements are by Harvey-Engelhardt Funeral Home.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Sunday, March 13, 1983 Martha Jane Woodring , 62, of Sanibel, died Friday, March 11th, 1983. She is survived by her mother, Nita Roberts of Sanibel; two daughters, Ramona A. Woodring and Amelia E. Woodring, both of Sanibel; two sons, Jefferson D. Woodring and Preston R. Woodring, Jr., both of Sanibel; two sisters, Virginia Whidden and Ann Jean Thompson, both of Ft. Myers; two brother, Jemes M. Roberts of Winter Haven, Fla., and John P. Roberts of Melborne, Fla.; several nieces and nephews; two grandchildren and one great grandson. Memorial services will be held Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Sanibel with the Rev. David Hope officiating. Arrangements by Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Tuesday, October 18, 1994 Preston R. Woodring, Sr., 75, a Sanibel native, retiring after 27 years as a SMSGT of the USAF, also retiring from the Island Water Association of Sanibel with 22 years service, died Saturday, October 15, 1994. Surviving are four children: Amelia Esperanza Woodring, Preston Raymond Woodring, Jr., Ramona Ann Agnew and Jefferson Davis Woodring; two grandchildren; Joe Daniel Cox and Preston Mitchell Woodring, a brother, Ralph S. Woodring; a cousin; Helen Darna and several direct and extended family members in this area, throughout Florida, Nevada, Illinois, Michigan, Tennessee and North Carolina. A memorial service will be Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the chapel of the Phil Kiser Funeral Home, Inc. with Rev. James O. Holbrook, pastor of McGregor Baptist Church, officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer memorial contributions made to the American Diabetes Association.

April 27, 1942 - Samuel B. Woodring, 61, pioneer Sanibel fisherman, died here yesterday after a long illness. He is survived by his wife Lorraine, daughter, Mrs. Laura Darna of Cayo Costa, 3 sons, Stanely and Samuel, Jr., of Sanibel and Preston, stationed at MacDill field in Tampa, a brother, Harrison Woodring of Sanibel and two sisters, Mrs. Alva C. Finney of Binghampton, N.Y. and Mrs. J. E. Morris of Fort Myers and 6 grandchildren. Services will be held at the Spooner and Engelhardt Funeral Home tomorrow at 2 o'clock with the Rev. R. E. Drymon officiating. Pallbearers will be Morris Mickel, T. M. Wiles, Belton Johnson, George Underhill, jr., Jake Stokes and Clarence Rutland. Honorary pallbearers will be Morris Michle, M. Johnson, Clyde Langford, Harry Stringfellow, John Boring, Bank Pearce, Ralph Hawkins, Webb Shanahan, Will Reed, Frank Smith and George Underhill, Sr.

January 13, 1969 - Samuel B. Woodring, 55, a lifetime resident of Sanibel island, died sunday afternoon. He is survived by one sister, Mrs. Laura Darna of Puta Gorda; two step-brothers, Ralph woodring and Preston Woodring of Sanibel Island and his stepmother, Mrs. Esperanza L. Woodring of Sanibel. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by Leo w. Engelhardt Funeral Home.

The News-Press, 2/15/2009--N. Lillian Woods, passed peacefully from this earth on February 14, 2009. She was born in KY, and lived many years in Newburgh, Indiana. She has resided in Fort Myers nearly 50 years. She loved her family, her God and church, her life and her many friends. She is survived by 3 daughters, Margaret (Jimmie) Forehand, Verna (David) Curry, and Terri (Rick) Payne; 1 son, Gene (Pam) Herr. She was predeceased by 1 daughter, Mary C. Evans; and 2 sons, Larry Herr and Jerry Woods. She also leaves 17 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and 3 great great-grandchildren. Visitation will be on Tuesday, February 17th from 9-11 am, with a funeral service to follow at 11 am, all at Lee Memorial Park Funeral Home, 12777 SR-82, Fort Myers, FL.Interment will be in Lee Memorial Park Cemetery, (239) 334-4880.

Major Roy Alvin Wood, M.D. -MILLEDGEVILLE - Major Roy Alvin Wood, M.D., 47, was killed January 9, 2004 in a vehicular accident while serving his country in a Special Forces unit in Afghanistan. Services will be 1P.M., Tuesday at Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery with full military honors. -Dr. Wood graduated from Mercer University and the Miami School of Medicine. He completed his residency in Emergency medicine at Emory University in Atlanta. He was a member of the Florida Army National Guard and a true patriot who resigned his commission to serve as a sergeant on a Special Forces Team. He served in civilian life as an Emergency Room physician for Lee Memorial Hospital in Fort Myers, FL. -In his over 20-year military career, he earned the Special Forces Tab, Ranger Tab, basic airborne Badge, parachute rigger wings, and was jumpmaster-qualified. In addition, he received numerous decorations and awards. Posthumous awards are pending. -Dr. Wood was a Master Mason in Lodge #5 F&AM in Macon, GA, a Royal Arch Mason York Knights Templar also in Macon, Kappa Alpha fraternity and a member of ARABA Shrine Temple in Fort Myers, FL. -Survivors include his wife, Hana of Milledgeville; children, Roy Andrew, age 6, Caroline Hana, age 3; parents, Julia and Calvin Wood of Graham, TX; brother, Rex of Fellsmere, FL; sisters, Jean of Graham, TX and Peggy of Frederick, OK; brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Boris and Karina Velimirovich of Milledgeville. -In lieu of flowers, donations may be made at any Bank of America branch to a trust fund established for his children or mailed to P.O. Box 50937, Fort Myers, FL 33994-0937. -Moores Funeral Home of Milledgeville has charge of arrangements.

FORT MYERS TROPICAL NEWS, June 26, 1927--John K. Woolslair, assistant cashier of the Bank of Fort Myers, died yesterday of a heart attack in a hospital at Chillicothe, Ohio. He had been suffering for some time from heart trouble and asthma, and was being treated by his brother, a doctor, at Chillicothe. Word of his father's death was received here yesterday afternoon by John K. Woolslair, jr., who left immediately for chillicothe. The body will be brought to Fort Myers Monday and funeral services will be held Wednesday with burial in the cemetery here. Mr. Woolslair came to Fort Myers from Beaver Falls Pa., about 30 years ago and bought an orange grove in Buckingham. For the past 15 years he has been connected with the Bank of Fort Myers and Trust company. J. E. Foxworthy, president of the bank, expressed great sorrow over his death. He said that Mr. Woolslair had always been very loyal and faithful, and that his loss would be deeply felt in the community. Survivors of Mr. Woolslair are his wife, Harriet M., his son John K. jr., daughters Mrs. W. A. Sheppard, jr., Mrs. Edward R. Page and Mrs. Fred Bartleson, and granddaughter Betty Page, all of Fort Myers

DANIEL GOLDEN "DANNY" WOOSLEY, 2005-01-03 Daniel Golden "Danny" Woosley, age 39, of LaBelle died Dec. 30, 2004 in LaBelle. He was born February 24, 1965 in Clewiston, to W.G. Woosley and Joann Jennings Woosley. He was a lifelong resident of LaBelle and was co-owner/manager of Jennings Hardware. He was active in the Praise & Worship Musical Group with the Church on Fire in Ft. Myers and the 4-H Club in LaBelle, teaching archery. He was an avid outdoorsman. Survivors include his children: Ashley Ann Marie Woosley, Britney Lee Ann Woosley and Daniel Stephen Keith Woolsey, all of LaBelle, former wife: Nancy Woosley of LaBelle; mother: Joann Woosley of LaBelle, brother: Larry R. Woosley (Ellen) of LaBelle, sisters: Patricia J. Nixon (Jim) of LaBelle, Sherri L. Carpenter (Steve) of Roxboro, NC and Mara Gail Woolsey (Tim Loyd) of Ft. Myers, sister-in-law Sandra Woolsey and by his very large extended family. He was preceded in death by his father and his brother: Thomas K. Woolsey. Funeral services will be Tuesday, January 4, 2005, 11:00 AM at the Community Harvest Worship Center in LaBelle with Pastor Rob Edge and Rev. Bill Maddox Jr. officiating. Interment will follow at Ortona Cemetery. Visitation will be TODAY from 2-4 and 6-9 at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Danny Woosley Children Trust Acct., C/O Olde Cypress Community Bank, P.O. Box 1469, LaBelle, FL 33975.

Fort Myers News-Press, Dec 18 1990 -- Thomas Keith Woosley, 37, of LaBelle, died Sunday in Fort Myers. Mr. Woosley was a lifelong resident of the area. He was the manager of Jennings Hardware, which belonged to his parents and grandparents beofre him. He was a member and past master of the LaBelle Lodge 379 F&AM, was past president of the LaBelle Jaycees, a member of the Moore Haven Chapter 116 OES and a member of the First Christian Church.He is survived by his wife, Sandra of LaBelle; one son, Thomas J. Woosley of LaBelle; two daughters, Shannon Carter of Athens, Ala., Amanda Sue Woosley of LaBelle; his parents, Joanne and W. G. Woosley; two brothers, Larry Woosley and Daniel Woosley, all of LaBelle; three sisters, Patricia Whysal of Wauleon, Ohio, Sherri Carpenter of Huntersville, N.C. and Mara Richardson of Winter Park, FL; his maternal grandmother, Erma Jennings Tilley of LaBelle and his paternal grandparents, W. G. and Katherine Woosley of Litchfield, KY; 4 nieces and 4 nephews.Services will be Wed. 10 a.m. at the First Christian Church with the Rev. Warren Grant officiating. Friends may call today 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Akin-Davis Chapel.

Fort Myers News-Press, Mar 5 2001-- W.G. Woosley, 73, of LaBelle, FL died on March 4, 2001 at Ft. Myers, FL. He was born November 3, 1927 at Grayson County, KY to W.G. Woosley, Sr. and Katherine Litsey Woosley. He graduated from Western Kentucky University in 1950 and married Joann Jennings July 7, 1950. W.G. owned and operated L.M. Jennings Hardware in LaBelle from 1964-1992. He was a City Commissioner in LaBelle from 1969-1971, a member of First Christian Church and a former Deacon of First Christian in LaBelle. Survivors include his wife; Joann of LaBelle; sons, Larry R. Woosley (Ellen) and Daniel G. Woosley (Nancy), both of LaBelle; daughters, Patricia J. Whysall of LaBelle, Sherri L. Carpenter (Steve) of Roxboro, NC and Mara Gail Woosley of Ft. Myers; brothers, Harley Woosley of Ray City, GA and Royce Woosley of Cullowhee, NC; sister, Patricia Gilman of Lecanto, FL; twelve grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two nieces; and three nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Katherine and W.G.; a son, Thomas K. Woosley; and an infant daughter. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 6, 2001 at 3:00 p.m. at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle with Reverend John Saleeby officiating. Burial will follow at Ortona Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS - January 4, 1971 Mrs. Anna Maude Wooten, 72, of 216 Redland St., North Fort Myers, died Sunday. She had lived here for the past 25 years and was a nurse at lee Memorial Hospital. She was born in Plant City in 1896. Survivors include her husband, Delmar L. Wooten Sr.; stepsons, Wesley F. Wooten or North Fort Myers, Delmar L. Wooten Jr. of Fort Myers; stepdaughters, Mrs. Jim (Pearl) Hall of North Fort Myers, Mrs. Toretha Hall of Fort Myers, Mrs. Dorothy Musselwhite of Pierson, Mrs. Tom (Maybelle) Orr of Henderson, N.C.; sister, Mrs. Maybel Daughtry of North Fort Myers; 18 granchildren and 34 great-grandchildren. She was a amember of North Fort Myers Baptist Church and Nurses Association. Funeral service will be held Wednesday at 3 p.m. at Leo W. Engelhardt Funeral Home with the Rev. Frank E. Singleton and the Rev. Gordon Price officiating. Burial will be in Fort Myers Cemetery.

Fort Myers News-Press--Mar 29, 2009 Dorothy A. Wooten, 74, of Fort Myers, died on Thursday. She was preceded in death by her husband, James "David" Wooten. Dorothy was born in New Hampshire, and she retired from the banking industry.She is survived by her children, Perry (Sharon) Carter, Susan (Thomas) Whitmore, Randy Carter, Donald (Amy) Carter, Jerry (Karen) Carter, Calvin (Monica) Carter, and Sharon (Brent) Webster; 19 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; sisters, Gladys, Connie, and Susan; and brother, Howard. Family and friends are invited to visit at Farley Funeral Home, 1100 Lee Blvd, Lehigh Acres, FL, on Wednesday, April 1, 2009, from 10-12 pm, with a funeral service to follow at the funeral home, at 12 noon. Interment will immediately follow at Buckingham Cemetery. Arrangements are with Farley Funeral Home, (239)369-2181.

Fort Myers News-Press--23 Oct 2007 James "David" Wooten, 67, of Fort Myers died October 22, 2007. David worked for United Telephone Company for 17 years, and was a U.S. Army veteran. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Dottie, daughter, Sharon A. (Brent) Webster, grandchildren, Brent E. Webster Jr., Michael David Webster, Brooke S. Webster, step-children, Perry Carter, Susan Whitmore, Randy Carter, Donald Carter, Jerry Carter and Calvin Carter.Funeral services will be held Thursday at 11 AM at Farley Funeral Home, 1100 Lee Blvd. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 4-6 PM at the funeral home. Interment in Buckingham Cemetery.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, April 26, 1932--Mrs. Lena Mae Belle Wooten, 35 years old and the mother of seven children, died yesterday morning at her home on Alicia street following a lingering illness. The youngest child is but a month old. Mrs. Wooten had resided in Fort Myers practically her entire life. She is survived by her husband, three sons, Audrew, Wesley and D. E., jr. and four daughter, Dorothy, Treather, Pearl and Mae Belle. Funeral services will be held at 4 o'clock this afternoon at the Lawrence A. Powell funeral home. Pall bearers will be John M. Borling, R. V. Lee, Judge L. Y. Redwine, J. P. Cox, H. C. Case and L. M. Stroup. The Rev. W. H. Edwards, jr., assisted by the Rev. Musselwhite, will officiate.

Fort Myers News-Press--20 Jun 2005 Forrest L. "Woody" Wootten, 72, of N. Ft. Myers, died Saturday, June 18, 2005. Woody was born July 4, 1932 in Laurel, DE a son of the late William and Mattie Wootten. He was preceded in death by his son, William F. "Billy" Wootten who passed away January of 2001. Woody served in the US Navy for 4 years and retired from the Delaware Air National Guard as a Master Sergeant after 25 years. He was a member of the VFW Post #10127, AMVETS Post #81, and The Eagles Lodge #4207 all of N. Ft. Myers and the American Legion Post #38 of Ft. Myers. He was the loving husband of Judith Wootten of N. Ft. Myers; the loving father of Kimberly (Matthew) Mauro of Clearwater, FL and Nicole (Ashley) Cootz of Jackson, GA, grandchildren, Kaden, Samantha and Trentin and his sister Barbara Unruh & husband Jack of Georgetown, DE. Private services will be held for the immediate family at Coral Ridge Funeral Home. Entombment will be in Coral Ridge Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Woody's memory may be directed to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, 3 Forest St., New Canaan, CT 06840.

Fort Myers News-Press , 24 Aug 2006 -- Mr. Andrew Wayne Worster of Jacksonville age 30, (April 8, 1976) passed away Monday August 21, 2006 at his residence. Andrew was born in Pontiac, MI coming to Fort Myers in 1979. Andrew graduated from Bishop Verot High School in 1994 and was a member of the State Championship Baseball Team. He earned his BA in Education from Jacksonville, University in 2000 and played Baseball for the JU Dolphins.He is survived by his parents, Dave and Suzie Worster, Fort Myers; brother David, Greensboro, NC. Andy was a good friend to all and loved by many. He will be deeply missed by all that knew him. May God bless him and keep him safe.A small family service will be held in Fort Myers. Arrangements by National Cremation Society Funeral Home, N. Ft. Myers, Florida.

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, June 18, 1936--Joseph B. Worrell, 72-year old Estero farmer, died at the Lee Memorial hospital yesterday morning after a short illness. Funeral services will be at 5 o'clock this afternoon in the Lawrence A. Powell chapel with the Rev. Leroy Crider of the Second Baptist church in charge. The body will be sent this afternoon to Cypress, Fla., for burial. He is survived by four daughters, Mrs. Irene Hall, Mrs. Sally J. Davis, Mrs. Maud Mears and Mrs. Clara Goodman and one son, R. W. Worrell, all of Estero.

Margaret Brown Worthy

FORT MYERS NEWS-PRESS, Dec. 21, 1935--Mrs. Alice F. Wright, 65-year old winter visitor, died suddenly last night at the home of her niece, Mrs. Edna F. Grady, at 1916 Canal street. Mrs. Wright moved to Fort Myers a month ago to make her home with Mrs. Grady. Her body will be taken to Las Cruces, New mexico, for burial. L. W. Engelhardt and Sons have charge of arrangements.

FORT MYERS PRESS, April 29, 2009 Grace Kelly Wright passed away on Monday at the age of 98, after a long illness, at the Park Club of Fort Myers, an assisted living facility. She had been living in Grand Court, College Parkway, since 2004, and in 2006 she married William H. Wright who also resides in Grand Court.She is survived by her husband, "Bill"; niece, Sandra Shaw and Sandra's children, Pamela Flowers and Eric Shaw and their offspring.Mrs. Wright was born in Waterbury, CT and spent two years in Kobe, Japan and later in Elizabeth, New Jersey. After high school, she attended Grand Central Art School for Design in Manhattan. After a career in Design, which included clothing, she taught oil and watercolor painting to senior citizens while living in Youngstown, New York.Her talent was expressed in several art forms-most notably in silk screen, watercolor and oil. Her art was exhibited in museums, fine art shops and galleries in New York and throughout other eastern states.Before her residency and marriage in Fort Myers, Mrs. Wright had three prior marriages. The first ended in divorce, two in death. She had no children.Arrangements by Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home and Crematory

Fort Myers News-Press, 7 Dec 2006-- Zach Wright, 25, of Cape Coral, FL died unexpectedly on December 5, 2006 while in Philadelphia. Born January 13, 1981 in Norristown, PA, he moved to Fort Myers with his parents shortly thereafter. Zach graduated from Mariner High School in 1999. He attended FGCU and graduated in 2004 with a Bachelors Degree's in Business and Hotel Management. He was employed by McKibbon Hotel Management, Inc. as a Bench Manager, Zach enjoyed life, including Scuba Diving, Skydiving, White Water rafting. He was an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan. He loved his "2 boys" Duce and Levi. He is survived by his mother Deborah Tracy of Fort Myers, his father, Howard Wright and wife, Debra of Cape Coral, his devoted sisters, Tiffany, Nicole and Olivia Wright of Cape Coral; his paternal grandmother, Virginia Wright of Bradenton, FL; a step-brother, Joe Stein and a step-sister, Jennifer Stein both of Fort Myers and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews both in Florida and Pennsylvania.Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 9, 2006 at 11 AM at Cape Christian Fellowship Church, 2110 Chiquita Blvd., Cape Coral, FL. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 9 AM until time of service in the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Like Link, 409 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa, FL 33603 in Zach's memory. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Coral Ridge Funeral Home.

THE TROPICAL NEWS, May 1, 1927--Phillip Jerome Wyman, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. G. D. Wyman, 1144 Lafayette street, died early Saturday morning at Lee Memorial hospital. Burial services will be held today at 1:30 p.m. from Engelhardt's mortuary. Interment will be at Fort Myers cemetery.