Berry

With hearts weighted by sorrow yet uplifted in remembrance, we mark the peaceful passing of Leonard Kirk Berry on June 24, 2026. Born on January 6, 1963, in Opelika, Alabama, Kirk’s life spanned 63 years characterized by warmth, ingenuity, and an abiding commitment to those he loved.

Throughout his life, Leonard was a man of many interests and talents. For a time, he worked as a driver for a trucking company, contributing his hard work and dedication to every mile he covered. Yet it was his time away from work that most clearly revealed his character: Leonard was an avid woodworker, creating furniture that graced the homes and memories of those fortunate enough to receive his craft. His hands shaped wood into more than just objects—they became treasures imbued with his care.

Kirk’s love for life was equally displayed in his affinity for music, as he enjoyed listening to all kinds. Also, his dedicated passion for Harleys extended to riding and working on them, bringing him immense joy and a sense of adventure.

Kirk’s presence bestowed a lasting gratitude on those around him. He was a devoted son to his mother, Gloria C. Collins (Kenneth), whose unwavering love remained a cornerstone in his life. He carried forward the memory and values of his late father, Jack Newton Berry, and brother, Jack Berry, Jr., whose absence was felt yet softened by Kirk’s continuity of their family’s spirit.

He also leaves behind his beloved daughter, Jessica Harper; sister, Karen Walters (Tim); who cherished his guidance and affection, and whose own journey is indelibly shaped by his wisdom. Kirk found family and kinship beyond blood, nurturing bonds with his step-sons; Joseph Basciano (Marissa) and Robert Basciano (Kelly) and his step-sister, Melinda Summerford and several nieces and nephews.

Perhaps nothing brought greater delight to Kirk than the laughter and vibrancy of his granddaughters: Makayla Burns, Carmen Vazquez, and Melissa Vazquez. Their very lives are echoes of the gentleness and love he so graciously gave.

Family and friends will gather for visitation at Jeffcoat Funeral Home, 255 Friendship Road, Tallassee, AL 36078, on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, from 10:00AM until service time at 11:00AM, Rev. Jay Woodall officiating. All who wish to share in honoring Kirk’s life are welcome to attend.

Leonard Kirk Berry made a profound impact on the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know him. His quiet strength, kindhearted nature and remarkable craftsmanship leave a lasting legacy that will be cherished always. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Englett

Berdie Pauline “Polly” Englett, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026. She was born on March 7, 1956, in Montgomery, Alabama, a place that always held a special meaning in her heart.

Throughout her seventy years, Polly touched the lives of many with her warmth, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family. She is lovingly remembered by her sons, James Castleberry (Tiffany), Dustin Sousa (Julie), and Samuel Englett, each of whom carry forward her strength and spirit. Polly’s legacy continues through her grandchildren—Alexis A. Castleberry, William Castleberry, Camden Castleberry, McKenzie Castleberry, Kaylee Luster, D.J. Sousa (Adeline), Carleigh Sousa, Khloee Sousa, and Zachary Englett—as well as her great-grandchildren, Millie McGriffin and Georgia Sousa. Her deep love for her family was evident in all aspects of her life, and those who knew her will remember the gentle encouragement and support she gave so freely.

Polly is preceded in death by her husband, Donnie Englett, and her grandchild, Kingston G. Castleberry, both of whom held cherished places in her heart.

Those closest to Polly fondly recall her passions and the simple joys she found in everyday life. She delighted in the beauty of flowers—roses being her favorite—finding peace and happiness amongst their blooms. As a talented cook, Polly was particularly proud of her biscuits and tomato gravy, a dish she loved making and sharing with those she cared about. Her home was often filled with music; country songs, especially those by Billy Ray Cyrus, provided a comforting soundtrack to her days. She rarely missed an opportunity to watch her favorite movies or to immerse herself in police and cop shows, finding as much joy in these stories as she did in her own family’s company.

While words can only begin to capture the fullness of Polly’s life and the impact she made on those around her, her memory will be cherished forever by all who knew her. Her warmth, resilience, and unwavering love set an enduring example for all who were fortunate enough to share in her journey.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to honor Berdie Pauline Englett’s memory and legacy. Family and friends will gather in heartfelt remembrance, sharing stories and holding dear the many ways she enriched their lives.

Polly’s spirit, compassion, and devotion to her family will live on in the hearts of all who loved her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Mote

Lorene Payne Mote, a cherished soul whose life was marked by warmth, devotion, and a zest for simple pleasures, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026. Born on February 27, 1930, in Macon County, Alabama, she graced this world with a spirit that touched all who knew her.

Throughout her 96 remarkable years, Lorene was an embodiment of love and grace. She delighted in the gentle rhythms of her daily pursuits—immersing herself in the quiet joy of fishing in a nearby fishpond, indulging in her favorite comforts of Diet Coke and Honey Buns, and sharpening her mind with reading, jigsaw puzzles, and crossword puzzles. These were not merely hobbies but reflections of a contemplative and lively mind that found beauty in life’s smallest treasures.

Foremost in Lorene’s heart were her beloved grandchildren, to whom she imparted boundless affection and wisdom. She is lovingly remembered by her devoted daughter, Beth M. Hornsby, whose companionship was a source of great comfort. Lorene’s legacy is further carried forward by her grandchildren: Steven Mote and his wife, Melissa; Stephanie Segura and her husband, Dan; James Cooper, Jr.; James Michael Nelson and his wife, Laura; Chris Hornsby and his wife, Petrina; Joe Hornsby and his wife, Patricia; Kevin Hornsby; and Linda Saunders and her husband, Mark. Their lives, rich with the influence of her nurturing spirit, are graced by her memory.

Beyond her immediate family, Lorene’s love extended to eighteen great-grandchildren and ten great-great-grandchildren, each a living testament to the enduring nature of her affection and care. She also leaves behind her brother, Phillip Payne, whose bond with her was dearly treasured.

The tapestry of Lorene’s life is woven with both joy and sorrow. She was the devoted wife of Jesse Hickman Mote for fifty-four years until his passing. She also mourned the loss of her daughter, Ruby Cooper and husband, James, as well as her parents, James B. and Viola Jackson Payne, whose presence shaped her early years.

Lorene Payne Mote’s passing leaves a silence felt deeply in the hearts of all who loved her. Yet, the memory of her gentle nature, her laughter shared over puzzles and pondside afternoons, and the unwavering love she showered upon her family endures as a radiant light.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later time to honor and remember the extraordinary journey of Lorene’s life. Until then, those who knew her hold close the precious moments of her presence, remembering a woman whose grace and warmth made the world a kinder place.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

McHargue

Danny Darrell McHargue, a cherished son of Opelika, Alabama, was born on April 17, 1959, and departed this life on June 3, 2026. He lived a life marked by unwavering devotion to family, a deep appreciation of the natural world, and an abiding enthusiasm for the beloved Crimson Tide.

Born and raised in the heart of Alabama, Danny held close a rich tapestry of passions that colored his days. Danny possessed a profound love for science fiction, a genre he cherished particularly for its enchanting embrace of dragons. His love for hunting and fishing was not merely a pastime but a profound connection to nature’s rhythms. Gardening provided him solace and joy, tending to the earth as tenderly as he did his loved ones. Animals of all kinds found a friend in Danny, whose kindness knew no bounds. And a fervent Alabama fan he remained, proudly embracing that allegiance throughout his years.

Danny’s family was the cornerstone of his life. He is survived by his beloved daughters, Alicia Coan, married to Chase, and Alison Smith, married to Tim. Their children—Danny’s treasured grandchildren—Hannah Garner, Emily Coan, Gage Coan, Mia Coan, Jaxton Smith, and Natalie Smith—carry forward his legacy of warmth and kindness. He also leaves behind two sisters and a brother, several nieces and nephews and a beloved friend and neighbor who was both great company and a great help for many years.

Among those who preceded Danny in passing was his beloved mother, Ann Cooper, whose memory undoubtedly remains a guiding light in the lives of those who knew her.

At this time, there are no services scheduled. Yet, in the quiet hearts of those who loved him, Danny Darrell McHargue’s spirit endures—a testament to a life well-lived, a soul deeply loved, and a legacy that does not fade with time.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Reed

Sherry Peeples Reed 69, of Tallassee, Alabama, originally from Eclectic, passed away at Baptist Medical Center South on June 1, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born April 4, 1957, to Harold and Carolyn Peeples. Sherry was a graduate of Castleberry Christian Academy and attended Trinium College for a short time, majoring in business, but put being a mother first. She later found her calling, billing and selling insurance. She loved to cook, especially when her granddaughters joined her in the kitchen. Sherry was a firm believer in family and traditions including annual Christmas fruit cakes she baked in efforts to keep her grandmother’s spirit alive. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Tallassee, where she was active in her Sunday School class and helped with Vacation Bible School when she was able. She had an uncanny knack for entertaining children.

Sherry is survived by her mother, Carolyn Peeples of Eclectic; daughters, Michelle Griffith Foster of Eclectic and Sandy Jenkins (Freddie Jr.) of Dawsonville, Ga; son, Jonathan Reed (Heather) of Flat Rock, NC; partner, Eddie Lindsey of Tallassee; step son, Elijah Lindsey; grandchildren, Ariel Jenkins, Micaiah Moore (Dustin), Freddie Jenkins III, Hannah Parris, Chloe Griffith, Anabelle Foster, Kathryn and Jonathan Reed and great grandchildren, John Chameli, Hudson Lawrence and Harlyn Moore.

Sherry is preceded in death by her husband, Jonathan Reed; father, Harold Peeples of Eclectic; paternal grandparents, George and Inez Peeples of Eclectic; maternal grandparents, Festus and Ellie Mae Griffith of Red Hill and her brother, Kerry Peeples of Eclectic.

Sherry loved life and people and was a friend to all who knew her. Her family was always first. She loved to hang out and play with her grandchildren who affectionately called her Gigi.

The family will receive friends Friday, June 19, 2026, from 10:00AM until service time at 11:00AM at Jeffcoat Funeral Home Chapel, Rev. Jay Woodall officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Elmore County, 255 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka, Alabama 36092.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Daniel

Jeraldine “Jerri-BoDean” Daniel, a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, passed away on May 22, 2026, at the age of 82. Jerri was born to Erma L. Smith and Hubert Webb Jr. on January 23, 1944, in Tallassee, Alabama.

Jerri accepted Christ in her life at an early age at A.M.E. Zion Church on Wall Street in Tallassee, Alabama, and later became a student of Kingdom Hall in Carrville, Alabama, with Jehovah’s Witnesses.

She was a proud graduate of Auburn University with a degree in early childhood development and worked with Community Action Head Start of Elmore County for thirty years.

Jerri was the beloved wife of Robert Lee Daniel for 36 years. He preceded her in death in September of 2025. During the course of their marriage, Jeraldine and Robert were the proud adoptive parents of Troyulus M. Potts, the son of Kimberly Potts.

Jerri and Robert Lee were treasured parents and grandparents to Kimberly F. Potts and her children, Evita Potts Montgomery (Mitchell), Troyulus M. Potts, son and grandson, Steven Demetrious Potts, deceased, Keziah Jade Potts, Michael Prince Potts and Nayanna Golden Potts. She was also the beloved mother and grandmother from her first marriage to Clinton Bishop Potts (deceased 2011) to Kimberly F. Potts, Debra E. Shealey, Clinton Gerrard Potts, Tracy Bernard Potts, and Robert Michael Potts. Jerri was a devoted sister to Regina W. Sanders and brothers, John Kenneth Kennebrew (Annie Lois) and Hubert Webb, III. A very special accolade to Deborah Bowen and her family who Jeraldine thought of as her extended family.

Jerri is preceded in death by her parents, Hubert Webb, Jr. and Erma Lewis Smith Webb Kennebrew; aunt, Eva Louise Battle (twin) and siblings, James “Pook” Kennebrew, Ronald Dean “Smokey” Kennebrew and Felix “Cutter” Kennebrew, Michael “Duck” Kennebrew, Steven “Prune” Kennebrew and Angela “Angie” Hollyfield and her grandson, Stephen D. Potts.

Jeraldine Daniel’s legacy of love, dedication, and artistry will remain deeply imprinted on the hearts of her family and those fortunate enough to have known her.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Oliver

Mark Allen Oliver, born on January 24, 1991, in Montgomery, Alabama, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026. A man remembered for his vibrant spirit and joyful presence, Mark was truly the life of the party and touched the hearts of many throughout his life.

Mark was an accomplished musician, skilled in playing the tuba and piano, and had a beautiful voice that he loved to share through singing. His passion for music was only matched by his enjoyment of fishing, pastimes that brought him both peace and happiness. Above all, Mark held a deep and unwavering love for his sons, Riley Oliver and Mark Allen “J.R.” Oliver, Jr., who were his proudest accomplishments and the center of his heart.

Mark’s family life was rich and extensive. He is lovingly mourned by his mother, Claudia O’Connell and her husband, John; his brothers, Luke Oliver—his twin—and Wade Oliver, married to Sammie, as well as Joshua Moore. His maternal grandmother, Carolyn Adams, along with several nieces, nephews, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins, also grieve his passing. Together, they hold dear the memory of a beloved son, brother, grandson, uncle, and friend who enriched their lives beyond measure.

He is preceded in death by his father, Wade Oliver, Sr., his paternal grandparents, Aaron and Hattie Oliver, and his maternal grandfather, Robert Moncrief. Their legacy lives on in Mark’s heart and the many lives he touched.

Mark’s devotion extended beyond family; he was an avid fan of Alabama football, embracing the spirit of teamwork and community that mirrored his own approach to life.

Services to honor Mark Allen Oliver will begin with a visitation on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, from 5:00PM until 7:00PM at Jeffcoat Funeral Home, Tallassee, Alabama. A funeral service will follow Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Riverside Heights Baptist Church. Burial will take place at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Eclectic, Alabama.

In bidding Mark farewell, we remember a man who was truly the heart of every gathering, a devoted father, an accomplished musician, and a soul who lived fully and loved deeply. His legacy of joy, music, and boundless affection will endure in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Lumpkin

Ronald David Lumpkin, born on March 3, 1972, in Opelika, Alabama, passed away on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. He was a man whose love for life and lively spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Known for his mischievous sense of humor, Ronald was always playing pranks on those around him, bringing laughter and joy to family and friends alike. A proud enthusiast of S-10 pick-up trucks, he had a deep connection with the outdoors, spending much of his time hunting, fishing, and reveling in the beauty of woods and wildlife. His profound affection for the outdoor world extended to all creatures within it, reflecting a gentle and compassionate soul.

Ronald’s role as PawPaw was dear to his heart, as he cherished every moment spent with his beloved grandchildren: Miley Lumpkin, Tinsley Lumpkin, and Harper Kate Reed. He leaves behind a devoted family that includes his daughter, Brittany Lumpkin, and his son, Ron Lumpkin, along with Ron’s wife, Ashley. His brother, Joe Lumpkin and Mona, his sister, Alice Hawkins, and his nieces and nephews—C.J. Hawkins and Megan, Eve Hawkins, Madison Freeman and Kaleb, and Dylan Hawkins, cousin, Jeremy Lumpkin, and friends, Adam Vann and Worm Lacey —also mourn the loss of a treasured relative.

He is preceded in death by Mr. Billy Joe and Mrs. Betty Lumpkin, his sisters, Teresa Williams and Ann Lumpkin, his brother, Dub Hawkins, and his nephew and best friend, Billy Joe Lumpkin.

The community will have the opportunity to honor and remember Ronald Friday, May 29, 2026, at Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home in Opelika, Alabama. The family will receive friends from 10:00AM until service time at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Garden Hill Cemetery, Opelika, Alabama.

Ronald Lumpkin’s memory will live on through the stories shared by those who loved him, the laughter he inspired, and the love he so freely gave to his family, especially his grandchildren. His connection to the natural world and his lively spirit remain a testimony to a life well-lived. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Santiesteban

It is with intense sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Jeannine Rose Santiesteban, a beloved wife, daughter, mother, sister, and cherished friend, who departed this life on May 18, 2026. Born on January 3, 1980, in Whittier, California, Jeannine graced this world with a radiant spirit that touched all fortunate enough to know her.

Jeannine was truly a “home girl” at heart, finding great joy and fulfillment in tending to her garden, where her green thumb nurtured a vibrant and lively space full of life. Her love and patience extended beyond plants to animals as well, reflecting a compassionate spirit that made her home a welcoming haven for creatures big and small. Known as a “people person,” she effortlessly connected with others, sharing her infectious smile and generous heart, traits that endeared her to all who knew her.

An excellent cook, Jeannine delighted in gathering loved ones around the table to share meals crafted with care and creativity. Her culinary talents were an expression of her nurturing nature and her desire to foster community and belonging.

Jeannine is survived by those closest to her: her devoted husband of twenty years, Gilbert Santiesteban; her beloved daughter, Destiny Rose Santiesteban; her father, Jerry Jackson, and mother, Susan Lorraine Cooper; her brother, John Jackson and his wife, Diana; and her cherished fur companion, Rider. Each held a special place in her life and heart, their bonds growing ever stronger through the years. She is also remembered with love for her step-father, Steven Cooper, who preceded her in death, as well as her fur baby, Kaos.

A graveside service to honor Jeannine’s life will be held on May 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Pleasant Springs Baptist Church Cemetery, located at 3854 Pleasant Springs Drive, Tuskegee, Alabama. The service will provide a reflective moment for family and friends to come together and celebrate the enduring impact of Jeannine’s life.

Jeannine Rose Santiesteban’s legacy is woven through the lives she touched—through the laughter shared, the meals enjoyed, the gardens blossomed, and the profound kindness she showed to all. She will be deeply missed, treasured always for the warmth and love she so freely gave.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Hale

It is with profound sorrow and heartfelt reverence that we announce the passing of Rebecca Lynn “Becky” Mulder Hale, a cherished daughter of Tallassee, Alabama, who departed this life on May 17, 2026. Born on June 22, 1969, Becky graced the world with her presence for nearly 57 years, a time marked by love, devotion, and a spirit that touched all who knew her.

Becky was a woman of many passions and deep affections. She found joy in the melodies of Steve Perry’s timeless voice and rooted wholeheartedly for the Alabama Football team, embodying the fervor of a true fan. Her fondness for the vibrant hues of yellow and red mirrored the brightness and warmth she exuded in life. Above all, her greatest pride and happiness derived from her family, who were the center of her world. Known affectionately as Meemaw, Becky delighted in every moment spent with her beloved grandchildren, Emily, James, and Luke Blakely, fostering memories cherished beyond measure.

She leaves to mourn and celebrate her life her loving husband of 37 years, Mickey Hale, whose companionship was a testament to enduring love. Her beloved mother, Margaret C. Mulder, stands steadfast with her family in this moment of loss. Becky’s devoted daughter, Mandy Blakely, along with her husband Cory, shares in the sorrow and remembrance. Her brother, Troy Mulder, together with Michele, and a circle of special nephews—Micah Brackett, Chad Mulder, Tyler Hale, Tristen Hale, Taylor Hale, and Tray Hale—hold dear the legacy she leaves behind. Becky is preceded in death by her father, Donald Berry Mulder, whose memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew him.

The community will gather to honor Becky’s life with a visitation at Jeffcoat Funeral Home, Wednesday, May 20, 2026, from 10:00AM until service time at 11:00AM, Rev. Jay Woodall officiating. The final resting place will be Carrville Cemetery, Tallassee, Alabama.

Rebecca Lynn “Becky” Mulder Hale lived with grace and zeal, a beacon of familial love and spirited enthusiasm. She will be remembered not only for the brightness she brought to her family’s lives but for the unwavering warmth and kindness that defined her soul. Though her passing leaves an indelible void, her memory will forever illuminate the hearts of those who loved her.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.