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.

Fender

Denver Hugh Fender, born on September 21, 1928, in Highland County, Ohio, passed away on May 13, 2026. Throughout his life, Mr. Fender exemplified unwavering faith, dedication to community, and a loving spirit that touched all who knew him.

Mr. Fender began his career as a farmer in Ohio, cultivating the land with the same care and perseverance he extended to the people around him. Upon relocating to Florida, he embraced a new chapter in construction, building several houses in St. Petersburg. His commitment to fostering community safety and engagement was evident in his initiation of the Neighborhood Watch Program in St. Petersburg. While living there, he was an active member of Clearview Wesleyan Church, serving as a Sunday School Superintendent, song leader, and chairman of the deacons. He also served on the board of other local churches as well, roles in which he enriched the spiritual lives of many.

A man of deep faith, Denver Hugh Fender loved Jesus above all else. Each morning began with reading the Bible and prayer, practices he maintained steadfastly throughout his life. His devotion was not private but generously shared with everyone he met, making him a beacon of hope and comfort. His service extended beyond the local church, as he was a Gideon Chaplain for many years, dedicated to spreading the message of Christ. He was also a former member of Tallaweka Baptist Church in Tallassee, Alabama, and later found fellowship in Sister Springs Baptist Church in Tyler, Alabama.

Mr. Fender was known for a warm and approachable nature, never meeting a stranger. His genuine kindness and openness earned him the affection of all who crossed his path. Among his cherished pastimes were taking his grandchildren fishing and enjoying hunting, activities that created lasting memories treasured by his family.

He is survived by his devoted children: Dale Hugh Fender (Robin), Bonnie Lou Bergeron (Nick), Lena Bayne (Robert), Wanda Sue Dalton, and Mary Ann Gravely (Allen). Papaw’s legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren: Raymond Lee Starcher, Kristopher Dale Fender, Rachelle Peterson, Miranda Fender, Megan Wilson (William), Danielle Silvernail, Jamie Cousins (Waylon), Michelle Bergeron (Francis), Kaitlin Dalton, Ashlin Dalton, Joshua Gravely (Kristin), and Jessica Miller (Larry). In addition, his numerous great-grandchildren carry forward his memory and love.

Mr. Fender is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Lillian Lankford Bowling Fender; his children, Norma Jean Mohyla (John) and Martha Joan Fender and grandchildren, Casey Dale Starcher, Brian Dean Starcher, Annalisa Levin, Daniel Fender, and Jacqueline Bergeron.

A gathering to celebrate the life and enduring spirit of Denver Hugh Fender will be held at a later time. His profound faith, community contributions, and loving family ties remain a testament to a life well-lived and deeply valued.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Moore

Joe Alex Lee Moore passed away on April 29, 2026. Born on July 31, 1966, in Wetumpka, Alabama, Joe’s journey through life was one defined by deep connections with family and friends, and a steadfast spirit that touched all who knew him.

Joe was a devoted son, brother, and cherished friend. He was raised with love by his parents, Marvin and Dora Duke Moore, who preceded him in death. He also shared a close bond with his siblings, brother, Marvin Moore and sister, Rebecca Moore Knight, both of whom now rest in peace.

Throughout his life, Joe remained a pillar of support and a source of joy for his nephews, Jimmy Moore and Timothy Moore (Haley); great niece, Natalie Moore and great nephew, Alexander Moore. They carry forward the memory of their beloved uncle. His enduring companionship with Tammy Duke, his special friend, was a testament to the deep and meaningful relationships he cultivated.

His life, while rooted in the gentle soil of Wetumpka, Alabama – will be deeply missed, yet his memory will remain.

In reflecting on Joe Moore’s life, we honor not only the man he was but the profound and lasting effect of his life upon those he loved. May he rest in peace, forever surrounded by the affection and respect of those who remember him so dearly.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Garnett

Mary Carolyn Diggs Crossley Garnett was born on September 13, 1932, in Anniston, Alabama, and passed away on April 21, 2026, at the age of 93 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Carolyn grew up in Anniston and attended Anniston High School, where she enjoyed playing several instruments in the band. She married H. Cooper Crossley in 1949; together they established several businesses including Lake Martin’s Castaway Island Resort, Battle of Horseshoe Bend in Dadeville, Alabama, and Mount Etna Skyride in Chattanooga, Tennessee, while raising a family. After the death of her husband, Cooper in 1987, she met and married Earnest Garnett of Tallassee, Alabama, in 1992. Carolyn was a dedicated follower of Jesus, and a longtime devoted member of First Baptist Church of Tallassee, Alabama. There she enjoyed teaching a couples class for many years, spoiling her class with baked treats each Sunday. She also volunteered in the nursery, where she loved the babies. Carolyn was a devoted mother, step-mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was a loving influence to all the related children, too many to name, many of whom were blessed by being hosted at her home on Lake Martin during the summers. Some of those blessings included her famous chicken snacks, chicken stew, biscuits, and a multitude of delicious desserts, but only after you cleaned your plate. It was a requirement in her kitchen to eat your vegetables and try new things. Carolyn was always a source of wisdom, generous with her time, and a giver of loving encouragement.

Carolyn is preceded in death by her parents, O. S. Diggs and Ruby Louise Woods Diggs; husbands, H. Cooper Crossley and Earnest Garnett; her son, Hogue Crossley; and grandson, Brandon Crossley. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Lee and Frank Morra; her son and daughter-in-law, Lyle and Nancy Crossley; her daughter-in-law, Cindy Crossley; grandchildren, Charissa Oglesby, Anand Crossley, Emily Crossley, and Sam Crossley; and great-grandchildren, Rhea Oglesby, Morgan Oglesby, Ian Holbert, and Oliver Holbert.

As a final act of service, Carolyn wished her body to be donated for medical education and research, continuing to help others after her passing. A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date.

The family will receive friends Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10:00AM until service time at 11:00AM, at Jeffcoat Funeral Home Chapel.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Carswell

Roy Earnest Carswell of Tallasee, Alabama, passed away quietly at Bethany House on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Essie Bateman Carswell and Royal Espy Carswell as well as brothers, Carl Carswell, James Woodard Carswell, Earl Dean Carswell, Ronald Carswell; sisters, Jeanette Rosson (Earl), Dorothy Bowdoin (Jiggs), Juanita Osborne (Authur); great-grandson, William Brady Mitchell and his first wife, Priscilla McGhee Carswell.

He is survived by his wife of forty three years, Sandra McLain Carswell, as well as his children, Payge Carswell, Robert Shannon Carswell, Carrie Gresham Mitchell (Brad) and David Gresham; brother, Ralph Carswell (Frances) and sister, Vera Hudson (Charles); six grandchildren, Austin Carswell (Emily), Alec Carswell, Brady Mitchell (Tori), Kristen Mitchell Chancellor (Stephen), Courtney Ezra Gresham and Emily Mae Gresham; five great grandchildren, Eliza and Margot Mitchell and Chloe, Aubrey and Eva Marie Chancellor; sisters-in-law, Louise McLain Ramsey and Bobbi McLain Miller and numerous nieces and nephews.

Roy’s pride and joy was his family first and foremost. He enjoyed reunions and get-togethers where he would tell the same old family stories that get better as the years go by. He enjoyed being a father, grandfather and great-grandfather and was proud of each one of the children!

Roy loved and is loved in return by his Church family at Living Water Worship Center. Whenever he was able, Roy regularly attended, participated and served, not only in worship service on Sundays, but weekly small groups and several teams that meet the needs of, not only the members, but, also outreach into the community. He wanted each of you to know, he felt the prayers!

Roy was proud to be called a Reeltown Rebel. In high school he played football, basketball, and was a member of the FFA, during which time, they won several state championships. His Senior year, he was captain of the football team, basketball team and President of the Senior Class. He loved his classmates. You are so very much a part of who Roy became as a man. He held you in high esteem.

Roy proudly served in the National Guard for seven years as a Medical Corpsman. In addition to his military service, Roy was a respected member of the IBEW Electrical Union Local #443 Montgomery, AL, for fifty-six years. He took pride in his work and loved the brotherhood. It was not only how he made his living; it was an honor to work alongside and bond with the members of 443 while traveling the country. They don’t make many like you guys anymore!

Pallbearers: Son, David Gresham, Grandsons, Brady Mitchell, Austin Carswell, Alec Carswell, Son-in-law, Brad Mitchell and Barry Harrison.

Honorary Pallbearers: Members of the IBEW LU443 Retiree Club; Representatives of the membership of Living Water Worship Center, Jeff Osborne, Tony Thomas and Casper Lockhart; Comer Roy Cobb Jr., representing the many young men in whom Roy made a difference.

Graveside Services will be Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 11:00AM in Carrville Cemetery with Rev. Chris Whittington officiating, Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing.

The family will receive friends Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10:00AM until service time at 11:00AM, at Jeffcoat Funeral Home Chapel.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Garnett

Barbara Uptain Garnett, born on October 3, 1938, in Tallassee, Alabama, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026. Her life was one marked by devotion to family, faith, and community, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Barbara dedicated a significant portion of her life to her career as a bank employee, exemplifying professionalism and warmth in her service. Beyond her work, she was a very active member of the Tallaweka Baptist Church, a cornerstone of her life and a place where her spirit thrived.

Those who were fortunate enough to share time with Barbara remember her as a great cook, whose kitchen was filled with love and comforting aromas. She was also an avid book reader, finding joy and knowledge in the pages of countless stories over the years. Above all, Barbara cherished her role as a grandmother, expressing immense love and pride in her grandchildren.

Barbara was the beloved wife of Arwood Dwight Garnett for 52 years, a partnership that shaped a lifetime of memories until his passing. She was born to Joe and Mamie Uptain and was sister to Irval Goodman, Gertie Darnell, Albert Uptain, Estelle Morris, Willie Joe McHarge, Horace Uptain, Charles Uptain, Arlin Uptain, Mildred Everage, and Lewis Uptain, all of whom have preceded her in death.

She is lovingly survived by her daughters, Kimberly Ash (Roy), Leigh Davis (Tim), Teresa Fields (Frank), and her son, Perry Garnett. Barbara’s sister, Martha Weldon remains a cherished part of the family. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Jasmine Wheeler (Daniel), Morgan Ash, Kaitlyn Ash, Tad Davis (Heather), Amber Pecce (Jon), Trey Fields (Lindsay), Anna White (Jacob), and her great-grandchildren, Sierra Victory, Ashlynn Victory, Alissa Ash, Atticus Davis, Rowen Davis, Joe Selph, Ashleigh Selph, and Wyatt Fields. Many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews also carry forward Barbara’s memory and spirit.

The family will receive friends Monday, April 27, 2026, from 11:30 AM until service time at 1:00 PM at Tallaweka Baptist Church, located at 1419 Gilmer Avenue in Tallassee, Alabama. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery, 960 North Ann Avenue, Tallassee, Alabama.

Barbara Uptain Garnett’s life was one of love, faith, and service. Her memory will be cherished by her family and the many lives she touched through her kindness and dedication. Her spirit remains warmly present in the hearts of those who knew her well.

The family extends their gratitude to all who have offered comfort and support during this time. Memorial contributions may be made to the Tallaweka Baptist Church in honor of Barbara’s enduring commitment to her church community.

The family will receive friends Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10:00AM until service time at 11:00AM, at Jeffcoat Funeral Home Chapel.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Bertl

Ann Bernice Bertl, born on June 16, 1972, in Inkster, Michigan, passed away on April 19, 2026. She was a devoted nurse and a cherished member of her community, remembered for her compassionate care and steadfast dedication to her profession.

From an early age, Ann displayed an extraordinary dedication to caring for others, a calling that led her to become a nurse at just twenty years old. Her career was marked by unwavering commitment and compassion, as she served at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan for over twenty-five years. Throughout her distinguished tenure, Ann touched countless lives with her nurturing spirit, skillful expertise, and steadfast empathy. Her work was not merely a profession but a noble vocation, one that defined much of her life.

Beyond her remarkable career, Ann found solace and joy in the embrace of the outdoors. She was an avid gardener whose hands cultivated beauty and life from the soil, reflecting her enduring connection to nature. The gardens she nurtured were reflections of her own gentle and patient soul, places of peace and renewal that echoed her spirit.

Ann’s life was enriched by the warmth and closeness of her loving family. She is survived by her cherished sisters, Leann McHale (David), Tonia McDermott (Clint), and Tammi King (Leon), whose bonds with Ann were sources of mutual strength and affection. Her legacy continues through her nieces and nephews—RoxAnne Turcotte, Kellie Bertl, Miguel Arzola, Victoria Richard, David G. McHale, Jason King, Jessie King, Kaitlyn McDermott and Julia McDermott —each of whom carries forward the light of Ann’s kindness and spirit. The family circle also embraces several great-nieces and great-nephews, heirs to her generosity of heart.

In addition to her human family, Ann’s companionship extended to her beloved fur babies, Bear and Rosie, who brought her companionship and comfort.

Ann’s journey was preceded by the passing of her parents, Walter Jay and Bertie Mae Gibbs Bertl, whose memories she held dear; her brother, Larry Bertl; and nephews, Stephen Bertl and Chris King.

Though Ann has departed from this world, her presence endures in the rhythms of the gardens she tended, the lives she healed, and the love she bestowed. Her family will hold a gathering in her honor at a later date, offering all who loved her a moment to celebrate a life of grace, dedication, and heartfelt devotion.

In reflecting upon Ann Bernice Bertl’s life, we remember a woman of unwavering compassion, gentle strength, and enduring love—a nurse, a gardener, and above all, a beloved soul who enriched the lives of many.

The family will receive friends Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10:00AM until service time at 11:00AM, at Jeffcoat Funeral Home Chapel.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Brown

Lois Eubank Brown, a cherished educator and beloved member of the Alexander City and Tallassee communities, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026. Born on June 16, 1956, in Montgomery, Alabama, Lois led a life marked by dedication, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds.

A daughter of Francis and Lois Davies Eubank, whose memories she carried with immense love, Lois embraced her early years with the spirit of warmth and scholarliness. She pursued academic excellence, earning her undergraduate degree from Samford University before advancing her knowledge with a Master of Education from Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM). These accomplishments laid the foundation for a career that would touch countless lives.

For many years, Lois served as an elementary teacher at Bear Elementary in Montgomery, Alabama. Her classroom was a haven of curiosity and encouragement, where children flourished under her guidance. Beyond her professional endeavors, Lois was a fervent enthusiast of Alabama football, finding joy and camaraderie in the game that so many in her state hold dear.

Lois’s life was enriched immeasurably by her family. She was the devoted wife of Bruce Brown, to whom she was married for 47 treasured years. Together, they shared a partnership filled with devotion and mutual respect. Her twin daughters—Ashley Sousa, alongside her husband Mark, and Meredith Kora, with her husband Mike—stood as pillars of her enduring love. Her brother, Marion Eubank, together with his wife Karen, provided steadfast support throughout her journey. The light of Lois’s life continued to shine through her grandchildren, Jonathan Kora and Abbie Kora, whose presence brought her great happiness. She was also the loving aunt to nieces Lauren and Lindsay, and a doting guardian to her beloved fur baby, Blue Bell.

Services to celebrate and honor Lois Eubank Brown’s life will be held on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at the First Baptist Church in Tallassee, Alabama. The visitation with family will begin at 2:00PM, providing friends and loved ones the opportunity to pay their respects and share memories. A Celebration of Life will follow at 3:00PM, offering a time of reflection and tribute.

Lois Eubank Brown’s legacy is one of kindness, perseverance, and a boundless dedication to her family and students. In every lesson she taught and every cheer for Alabama football, she embodied a spirit that uplifted all who knew her. Though her departure leaves a profound void, the memory of her grace and love will eternally endure in the hearts of those privileged to have known her.

The family will receive friends Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10:00AM until service time at 11:00AM, at Jeffcoat Funeral Home Chapel.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Gainey

Karen Christine (Grady) Gainey, 64, of Tallassee, Alabama, entered into eternal rest on April 9, 2026.

Karen was born on April 14, 1961, in Alexandria, Virginia, and was raised by loving parents, Joseph and Josephine Grady, who provided her with a strong foundation during her early years. During that time, she attended Tuskegee University for a period of time and explored different paths in life. As life unfolded, Karen followed a path uniquely her own—one that led her through different places and experiences, ultimately shaping her into the woman she became. Life was not always easy for Karen, but she always allowed her light to shine, carrying an “oh well, it’ll be okay” kind of spirit that guided her through.

Karen has four daughters, two of which are from her first marriage, whose father, Vincent Morgan, preceded her in death. They resided in Tuskegee, Alabama, before she later relocated to Baltimore, Maryland, where she met Walter James Gainey, remarried, and out of this union came two girls, Kimberly Gainey and Shaneeka Gainey. Karen lived a portion of her life in Baltimore before eventually returning to Tuskegee, Alabama, where she built a life of her own with her children. Karen began a career with the State of Alabama, where she dedicated many years of hard work and service. She later moved to Tallassee, Alabama, where she spent the remainder of her years surrounded by family and loved ones.

Karen was known for her loving and generous spirit—often described as “too nice” in the best way. With all of her love, ingenuity, and her over-giving heart, Karen was truly one of a kind. A true gem. She had such a sweet soul, a true joy to be around, biggest heart with a personality that could light up any room. Her presence brought comfort to those around her, and her very grand, sarcastic sense of humor made her unforgettable. Her big contagious smile was permanent and a memory of her that’ll be treasured forever.

Karen enjoyed creating meaningful items for her loved ones. Her skillful crocheting was both a creative outlet and a way to connect with those she loved through handcrafted expressions of affection—this being one of the many ways she showed her love. She also had a special love for her beloved fur babies, Peaches and Georgia. Though she preferred the comfort of home, her door was always open—if you came by, you were family.

Karen loved her grandchildren deeply and found her greatest joy in spending time with them. She especially cherished the time with her sidekick, Aundre, and never missed an opportunity to support any of her grandchildren at games, birthdays, holidays and events.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Josephine Grady.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Kuanda (Tyrone) Alleyne, Chantelle (Jimmy) Watson, Shaneeka (Alan) Arnold, and Kimberly Gainey; her beloved grandchildren, Aundre Fields Jr., Daelon Morgan, Zion Alleyne, Z’Riyah Alleyne, Kali Arnold, Skylar Arnold; and her special grandson, Justin Jr. “Tugga”, along with a host of other relatives and loved ones whose lives she touched.

Karen will be remembered for her kindness, her humor, the love she gave so very freely in her own unique way, and the lasting impact she made on everyone who knew her.

The family will receive friends Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10:00AM until service time at 11:00AM, at Jeffcoat Funeral Home Chapel.

Online condolences available: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.