Clakely

Attius Keith Clakeley, a devoted father, grandfather, and skilled plumber, passed away on February 11, 2026, at the age of 63. Born on August 20, 1962, in Montgomery, Alabama, Attius lived a life characterized by his quiet and reserved nature, often keeping to himself while passionately engaging in the things he loved.

Throughout his life, Attius found joy in hobbies such as NASCAR and Alabama football, along with the tranquil pastime of fishing. These interests reflected his spirited personality and provided him solace and excitement.

Attius is survived by his children, Shaun (Stephanie) Clakeley and Ashley Clakeley, as well as his step-daughter, Ashley Hughes (Paul). His mother, Barbara Whitfield, and step-mother, Cynthia Clakeley, also remain as integral parts of his legacy. He was a dedicated brother to Dean Clakeley (Holly), James Clakeley Jr., Byran Clakeley, and Deanna Clakeley.

As a proud grandfather, he cherished his time with his grandchildren: Haylen Clakeley, Phenyx Clakeley, Ethan Clakeley, Kyler Pagan-Clakeley, Preston Boord, Westyn Boord, Caleb Gunn, Nicholas Hughes, Zoe Hughes, Levi Woodruff, and Wyatt Woodruff. His extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends will carry his memory forward.

Attius was preceded in death by his wife, Renee Clakeley; father, James Clakeley; step-father, Norman Whitfield; son, Attius Clakeley Jr.; step-son, Stephen Woodruff; and his grandson, Dylan Roehm. Each of these losses contributed to the depth of his character and his appreciation for family.

The family will receive friends Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Jeffcoat Funeral Home Chapel. His absence will be felt profoundly by all who knew him, as he made a lasting impact on their hearts.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing – Tallassee, Alabama

Ray

Sharon Chavers Ray, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away Monday, February 9, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on September 14, 1944, in Charleston, South Carolina, Sharon dedicated her life to both her family and her career, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Sharon’s career is a testament to her strong work ethic and unwavering commitment to service. She retired from Ampex Corporation after thirty years—three decades that reflect her resilience and dedication. Following her retirement, she continued to contribute to her community by working as an x-ray technician at East Alabama Medical Center for several years, embodying the spirit of caring and compassion that defined her life.

At her core, Sharon was a family woman, and she cherished her loved ones above all else. Her infectious laugh could light up a room, and her love for cooking was well-known among family and friends. She enjoyed creating delicious meals that brought family together, reflecting the warmth and affection that filled her home. In addition to her culinary talents, Sharon found joy in reading, often immersing herself in the pages of a good book during her quieter moments.

Sharon is survived by her devoted husband of twenty years, Billy H. Ray, and her daughter, Zonie Leigh Chavers, along with her son, Andy Buford Chavers, Jr., and another son, Billy Joe Ray (Sandra). She leaves behind the love of her sisters, Gloria Collins (Ken) and Cynthia Granger (Andy), and a cherished legacy through her grandchildren: Nicole Davis (Michael), Brooke Johnson (Drew), Tristin Chavers, Amber Ray, and Brandon Ray (Ashley). Her great-grandchildren—Tyson Davis, Logan Ray, Deacon Ray, and Leslie Lynn Ray—will carry her spirit in their hearts. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, who were touched by her kindness and love.

Sharon is preceded in death by her parents, James Robert and Willie Mae Thomas Casaday; her first husband, Andy Chavers, Sr.; her grandson, Gabe Hatchett; and her brother, Jimmy Casaday.

As we gather to celebrate Sharon’s remarkable life, we invite all who knew her to join in remembrance. Visitation will be held Friday, February 13, 2026, at Jeffcoat Funeral Home in Tallassee, Alabama, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service beginning at 1:00 PM. She will then be laid to rest at Notasulga Memory Gardens.

In these moments of reflection and gathering, may we each remember the joy she brought into our lives, and may her spirit continue to inspire us to cherish our families and share our love with one another.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be sent to the Spencer Cancer Center, 2501 Village Professional Dr, Opelika, AL 36801

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing – Tallassee, Alabama

Carlisle

Susan “Becky” Meadows Carlisle, born on April 6, 1950, passed away Wednesday, February 4, 2026. A cherished matriarch and devoted friend, Becky lived with a spirit as vibrant as the flowers she loved to tend. Her career at Neptune Water Meter Company culminated in retirement, allowing her more time to pursue her passions, which included an ardent love for cooking and a profound appreciation for the splendor of nature, particularly in her garden.

Becky’s enthusiasm for life extended beyond her home and family—she was an avid supporter of football, passionately following both the University of Alabama and Reeltown High School teams. These interests were woven into the fabric of her life, enriching her everyday experiences and fostering connections with those around her.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, cherished by her daughter, Wendy Fomby, and a multitude of grandchildren: Josh Fomby, Brandon (Loren) Fomby, Audrey (Jordan) Moran, Sarah (Zach) Foley, and Cody James Carlisle. The joy of her life grew exponentially with the addition of her great-grandchildren, Sadie and Kylee Moran, Mary Hanlyn, Mavie, Maggie, and Molly Fomby, along with Waylon Wayne Foley and several nieces and nephews. Each of them carries forward her spirit, nestled within their hearts and memories.

Becky also shared a special bond with her sister, Betty Ann (Jimmy) Sloan, a relationship filled with sisters’ laughter and lifelong companionship. Additionally, she was blessed to have a lifelong friend in Charles Hammock, whose presence undoubtedly enriched her life.

Her life also bore its share of sorrow, including the heart-wrenching loss of her son, James Wendell Carlisle Jr., her son-in-law, Thomas Christopher Fomby; parents, Rupert and Audrey Meadows; sisters, Micki Hornsby (Donnie) and Linda Gail Meadows Hammock and her brothers, L.A. Wisener, Frank Wisener and William Wisener. Still, Becky remained a beacon of resilience and love.

Her memory shall be honored in a private Celebration of Life to be held at a later date, where those who loved her will gather to share stories, reminisce about cherished moments, and uphold the enduring legacy she has left behind. Becky’s profound impact on those fortunate enough to know her is a testament to a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and the beauty of the world she so dearly adored.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Reeltown High School Football Program in honor of Wendell Carlisle, 4090 Alabama Hwy. 120, Notasulga, Alabama 36866.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing – Tallassee, Alabama

Hornsby

Judith Ellen O’Daniel Hornsby, known to family and friends as Judy, was born on August 11, 1939, in Elmore County, Alabama, and passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family at age 86 on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

Judy grew up in Kent, Alabama, where she attended elementary and junior high school. She graduated from Tallassee High School in 1957, earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Alabama in 1960, and later received a Master of Science degree from Auburn University in 1967.

From an early age, Judy demonstrated a deep love for music. Her talent on the piano was evident when, at just seven years old, she began playing for church services at Providence Primitive Baptist Church. As a young woman, she played piano for several gospel quartets that performed on the radio and she accompanied the Tallassee High School Glee Club. Judy also played the clarinet in the Tallassee High School band.

While attending the University of Alabama, Judy was an active and accomplished student leader. She served as rush chairperson for the Alpha Chi Omega social sorority and was voted Outstanding Graduating Senior. She majored in Library Science with a minor in English, made the Dean’s List several semesters, and completed her undergraduate degree in three years.

Following graduation, Judy began her professional career as an assistant librarian at Sidney Lanier High School in Montgomery. She married Ernest C. “Sonny” Hornsby in May 1961, and the couple returned to Tallassee in 1962. Judy worked as the librarian at Tallassee High School, where she also directed the Glee Club and assisted with two senior play productions.

Throughout her life, Judy remained deeply committed to education, music, and service to her community. She served as choir director and pianist at Macedonia Christian Church and was the pianist at The First Baptist Church of Tallassee for more than a decade. Judy was known for the distinctive runs she included in her piano pieces, creating a beautiful and unique sound. She served for many years on the Tallassee Board of Education, was president of the Les Temps Literary Club, president of the Tallassee Jayceettes—where she received the State Boykin Award—and president of the McCraney-Cottle Arts Council. She also served for several years as a docent at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Judy and Sonny were consummate hosts and generously opened their home, Seven Gables, to the Tallassee community, delighting in entertaining and hosting gatherings.

Above all, Judy was devoted to her family. She was immensely proud of her three children and devoted much of her time to supporting them in their many activities: tennis, dance, theater, and piano. She especially enjoyed accompanying her children on the piano as they sang and

performed at church and throughout the community. Later in life, Judy experienced great joy in her seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Judy, Sonny, and their family shared many cherished times at Lake Martin, at the lake cabin of Judy’s parents, which continues to be enjoyed by the family today.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Lamar Bruce O’Daniel and Mae Zell Mullins O’Daniel. She is survived by her husband, Ernest C. “Sonny” Hornsby; her sister, Joan O’Daniel; her children, Clay Hornsby (Nancy), Emily Hornsby, and Allison Deison (Tom); her grandchildren, Warner Hornsby (Anna), Judith Capps (Thomas), Ben Nelson (Catherine), Cummings Nelson, Hunt Deison, Oakley Deison, and Mae Deison; and her great-grandchildren, Hastings Hornsby and Julia Capps.

Visitation will be held at The First Baptist Church of Tallassee from 11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., on Saturday, February 7, 2026, followed by a celebration of life service at the church at 1:00 p.m. There will be a private grave side service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to the McCraney-Cottle Arts Council. Contributions can be mailed to the McCraney-Cottle Arts Council, P.O. Box 780551, Tallassee, Alabama, 36078. Please include on the contribution that it is being made in memory of Judy Hornsby.

The family would like to thank Robin Caine, owner of In His Service, a family-owned and operated in-home caregiving service, for providing empathetic, responsible, and kind caregivers for Judy, as well as ProHealth Hospice, who kept Judy comfortable and peaceful during her time of need.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing – Tallassee, Alabama

Sholz

Diane Alice Scholz, born on December 29, 1954, in Washington, D.C., passed away peacefully on January 31, 2026. Diane was known for her vibrant personality, which radiated through her love of karaoke singing, a true passion she often referred to as her “second language.” In addition to her musical talents, she excelled as a professional pool player and was a proud member of the APA Pool League.

Diane was a devoted matriarch, her pride emanating from her close-knit family. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Brenda Marie Wilson; her son, Ronald James Scearce, Sr. (Jennifer); and her siblings: Linda True Brent (Tom), Joseph Michael Tull (Lottie), Robert Lawerence Tull (Lisa), Thomas David Tull (Patricia), Susie Sullivan (Darrell), and Darlene Ringgold (Joey) and special aunt, Connie Virbukas. She took much joy and pride in her grandchildren: Christina Cook, Jamie Embert, Patricia Messer, Douglas Moore, Ronald Scearce, Jr., Shauna Partilla, Malakia Scholz, Sylas Scholz, Skyla Scholz, Michael Giddings, and Randy Smith, as well as her great-grandchildren: Madysen Deharty, Makenzie Everage, Mason Everage, Kayleigh Embert, Cataleya Green, Lyla-ann Green, Analeia Green, Roman Hester, Grayson Chavis, Jaxson Giddings, and Braxton Giddings. Diane’s heart was ever expansive, welcoming many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews into the fold, in addition to her cherished “fur babies,” Hondo, Bailey, and Dixie.

Though Diane’s earthly journey saw an end, her spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those who loved her. She is preceded in death by her devoted husband of 38 years, Bruce W. Scholz; her parents, Courtney and Theresa G. True; her son, Michael Thomas Wilson, Jr.; her daughter, Shannon Scholz; her twin brother, Dennis True; her sister, Maureen Rhine; and her grand pup, Libby.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date, allowing family and friends to honor and remember the vibrant spirit of Diane Alice Scholz, who touched so many lives with her kindness, humor, and warmth. Her dedication to her family and her remarkable presence will forever be cherished in the hearts of all who knew her.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing – Tallassee, Alabama

Lamberth

Charles Franklin “Chuck” Lamberth, a beloved community figure and veteran, passed away on January 20, 2026, at the age of 74. Born on February 15, 1951, in Dayton, Ohio, Chuck was a dedicated family man and a respected member of the Eclectic community where he owned and managed Chuck’s Shell Station for several decades. His commitment to his work and the relationships he built with customers defined his legacy.

A proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Chuck embodied the spirit of devotion and determination, principles he carried with him throughout his life. His enthusiasm for the Alabama football team was a testament to his spirited nature, as he celebrated every game with unbridled passion, fostering camaraderie with fellow fans and friends alike.

Chuck’s heart resided not only in his love for the community but also in the profound relationships he nurtured with his family and friends. He is survived by his beloved sons, John David Lamberth and Matthew Kenneth Lamberth (Emma Rentas), along with his cherished grandsons, Matthew Kenneth Lamberth II and Nathan Scott Lamberth. His family, including his dear cousin, Jan Colson and his brother, Winston Harden (Martha), remain steadfast in their love for him and the indelible mark he made in their lives. A special friendship with Larry Sanders was a highlight of his later years, bringing laughter and companionship that enriched Chuck’s journey.

Chuck is preceded in death by his loving parents, Charles Harmon and Lois Jean Overman Lamberth, who instilled in him values of kindness and integrity. He is also preceded in death by his beloved dog, Forrest.

As we gather to remember and celebrate the life of Chuck Lamberth, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, honoring the man who brought joy, friendship, and service to all who had the privilege to know him. His absence will be felt profoundly, yet his spirit will persist in the memories shared and the love he cultivated.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing – Tallassee, Alabama

Ward

Erika “Ms. Erica” Elsbeth Ward, a beloved member of her community and a cherished homemaker, passed away on January 18, 2026, in her home, surrounded by the memories of a life richly lived. Born on March 11, 1929, in Germany, Erika navigated a world marked by challenges, having attended school during the Hitler Regime. Her vast knowledge of history, particularly regarding World War II, became a significant part of her legacy, influencing many who encountered her thoughtful discussions.

Committed to her faith and community, Erika was a long-time member of Westside Baptist Church, in Tallassee, Alabama, where she found support and friendship among fellow congregants. Her spirit and dedication to her church were evident through her contributions and unwavering affection for those she served alongside.

Erika leaves behind a loving family, including her stepson, Lonny Ward; her sister, Elfriede Vasini; her brother, Alfred Laube; and her sister-in-law, Margaret Ward. She was particularly fond of her four nephews, Milko, Micheal, Marcus, and Thomas, who brought her much joy throughout her life. Erika also cherished her special friend, Shelby Durbin, and held dear the bonds with her special caregivers, Regina Stalnaker and Royetta Link, who provided unwavering support in her later years. Additionally, she had several great nieces and nephews who will forever remember her warmth and kindness.

Erika is preceded in death by her husband of 32 years, Howard Ward, whose memory remained close to her heart until her final moments. She is also preceded by her parents, Willy Erich and Minna Richter Laube, and her stepson, Ronnie Ward.

The memory of Ms. Erika will be etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Friends and family are invited to honor her remarkable life at a graveside service to be held Thursday, January 23, 2026, at 11:00AM at Rose Hill Cemetery in Tallassee, Alabama. The service will offer a space for reflection, remembrance, and celebration of a life profoundly lived.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing – Tallassee, Alabama

McNeal

Shirley Rebecca McNeal, a beloved resident of Panama City, Florida, formerly of Dadeville and Opelika, Alabama, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the age of 91. Born on September 13, 1934, in Tallassee, Alabama, she spent her life cherishing the beauty and serenity of the lake that surrounded her. Her passion for this tranquil environment reflected her warm spirit and her love for the simple joys of life.

Mrs. McNeal worked at Ampex for thirty years, while living in Opelika, Alabama and then retired to Lake Martin in Dadeville, Alabama. She was a proud member of the Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church of Dadeville and had previously been a dedicated member of the Pepperell Baptist Church of Opelika, Alabama. Her faith was an integral part of her life, guiding her actions and nurturing her relationships within the community.

In addition to her unwavering faith, Shirley had a profound love for music. She often expressed her joy in singing and looked forward to attending the Southern Gospel Quartet Conventions every year. Music was an essential thread in the fabric of her life, bringing her comfort and happiness throughout the years.

She is survived by her loving family, including her daughter, Paula M. Rodriguez (Alex), and her son, Barry McNeal (Susan). She also leaves behind cherished grandsons, Kenneth McNeal (Tara) and Kener Rodriguez (Brittney), along with her grandson, Rene Rodriguez. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Micah McNeal, Isaiah McNeal, Madeline McNeal, Dominic Rodriguez, and Damian Rodriguez. The love she fostered extends further through several nieces and nephews, who will remember her with fondness and admiration. She is preceded in death by her parents, Ellis D. and Willie W. Sayers, as well as her brothers Rudy, Doyle, and Lawrence Sayers, all of whom she held dear to her heart.

As we gather to celebrate Shirley’s extraordinary life, her family will receive friends Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 9:00 AM until service time at 10:00 AM at Jeffcoat Funeral Home in Tallassee. Burial will follow at Carrville Cemetery.

May we honor her memory with the same love and joy she instilled in our lives, as we bid farewell to a remarkable woman who will forever be in our hearts.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing – Tallassee, Alabama

Bodiford

Joseph “Jody” Oscar Bodiford, age 68, of Franklin, Alabama, passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, January 17, 2026, in Auburn, Alabama. Jody lived a life marked by devotion—to his faith, his family, his work, and the simple joys that brought meaning to each day.

Jody was born on October 16, 1957, to Jabe “Red” Lee Jack Bodiford and Mary “Boots” Howell Bodiford. He was a 1976 graduate of Tuscaloosa County High School and went on to attend Shelton State Community College, where he earned an associate degree and began his career as an electrician. His professional journey later led him into healthcare, where he worked as a radiology technician at Baptist South in Montgomery, Alabama.

In 2016, Jody joined the Tuskegee Veterans Affairs Medical Center, faithfully serving our nation’s veterans until his retirement on December 31, 2025.

In 1990, Jody met the love of his life, Beverly-Jo Perry. Their love story culminated in a joyful and unforgettable wedding in Las Vegas, Nevada, on February 15, 2015—officiated by “Elvis” himself. Jody embraced his Jewish faith in 2011, a decision that deeply enriched his spiritual life and guided his values of kindness, reflection, and gratitude.

Jody was a man of many passions. He loved playing the guitar, riding motorcycles, tinkering with small engines, and caring for his beloved pygmy goats. He found great joy in building and refurbishing projects for his wife, always eager to create something useful or meaningful with his own hands. Above all, Jody treasured time spent with his family. He especially delighted in playing and laughing with his nephews, Adam Perry and Bobo Ray, whose time together brought him immense happiness.

Those left to cherish Jody’s memory include his wife of ten years, Beverly-Jo Perry Bodiford; his brother, Randy Bodiford; brothers-in-law, Michael Perry and Rhett Perry; sisters-in-law, Kerri Perry, Melanie Bodiford and Wendy Perry; aunts, Peggy Perry Mooneyham, Susan “Joe” Perry DeSantis, and Janice Taylor Perry; nieces, Heidi Perry and Kristyn Engdahl; nephews, Adam Perry and Jeremy Birch; great-nephews, Bobo Ray and Cyrus Ray; and great-niece, Ashlynn Ray.

Jody is preceded in death by his parents, Jabe and Mary Bodiford, and his sister, Jackie Bodiford.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Tuskegee Cemetery, located across from the former National Guard Armory/Tuskegee Police.

Department. Pallbearers will be Randy Bodiford, Adam Perry, Michael Perry, Rhett Perry, Tommy Thomson, and Joe Harrison. Lucius Ray will serve as honorary pallbearer.

In celebration of Jody’s life, family and friends are invited to participate in the Jewish tradition of remembrance by sharing cherished memories, reciting a verse from the Bible (From the book of Psalms), or reading a meaningful poem.

In lieu of flowers, Beverly-Jo welcomes other family and friends to send potted plants, which in Jewish tradition symbolizes the circle of life and enduring memory. Live potted plants may be sent to Jeffcoat Funeral Home in Tallassee, Alabama, in honor of Jody’s life.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing – Tallassee, Alabama

Warren

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kody Winston Warren, who departed this world on January 13, 2026, at the age of 34. Born on April 7, 1991, in Montgomery, Alabama, Kody was a soul whose vibrancy touched countless lives through his passion for music and dedication to education.

Kody’s academic pursuits led him to achieve several degrees in American and International History, reflecting not only his intellectual curiosity but also his commitment to understanding the complexities of the world around him. His thirst for knowledge was matched only by his love for music, a realm in which he truly flourished. An exceptional harmonica player, Kody graced the stages of numerous bands and captivated audiences both at home and abroad. He performed across Europe, leaving an indelible mark wherever he played and forging connections through the universal language of music. His impressive discography stands as a testament to his talent and unwavering dedication to his craft.

Kody’s passing leaves a void felt deeply within the hearts of his family and friends. He is survived by his loving father, Troy Warren, and step-mother, Stefanie Warren, his brothers, Adam Thornton and Case Warren, as well as his sisters, Jade Bruce (Jeremiah), Grace Williams, and Gabby Williams and aunts, Michele Louviere and Christina Chavers. He cherished the time spent with his grandparents, Mike and Janice Warren, and was proud to be an uncle to one niece and three nephews. Kody is preceded in death by his mother, Tammy Williams, and step-father, Scott Williams.

In honor of Kody’s remarkable life, the family will receive friends Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 10:00AM until service time at 11:00AM, at Jeffcoat Funeral Home in Tallassee, Alabama. His legacy as a musician and a beloved family member will resonate long after the final note has been played.

As we reflect upon the life of Kody Winston Warren, let us remember not only his accomplishments but also the warmth and joy he brought to all who knew him. May his spirit live on through the music that inspired him and the love that he generously shared.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing – Tallassee, Alabama