Obituaries 11/09/2023
Judge Andrew C. Baker
CHARLESTON — Judge Andrew C. “Andy” Baker, age 87, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, Oct. 31.
The third of five children, Judge Baker was born on September 29, 1936, in Coaldale, West Virginia to Jesse and Vessie Baker. He graduated from Bramwell High School in 1954. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on Sept. 3 of that same year, at the age of 17, and was honorably discharged on Sept. 2, 1957.
He came to Mississippi in 1957 and worked several jobs before entering Northwest Community College, graduating in 1962. He next attended Delta State University, receiving his degree in 1964. He then enrolled in what was formerly Jackson School of Law (now Mississippi College) and graduated with his Juris Doctorate degree in 1966.
He was admitted to the bar in 1966. He joined a law practice in Charleston to form the partnership Blount, Tennyson and Baker. Governor Cliff Finch appointed him to serve out the unexpired term of Judge Dick Thomas on July 26, 1978, at which time he began his duties as Circuit Court Judge. His first official elected term began on January 1, 1979, and he served continuously in that capacity until his retirement date on December 31, 2010. He served 32 and one-half years on the bench.
He is preceded by death by his parents, Jesse and Vessie Baker; and two sisters, Myrtle Magdalene Farris and Naomi Sullivan.
Visitation was held at Newsom Funeral Home Thursday, Nov. 2, with the funeral service following at 2 p.m. Interment was held at Bethel Cemetery near Enid. Newsom Funeral Home had charge of arrangements.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Barbara Havens Baker. He also leaves behind his daughters, Lisa Baker (Mark) Carlson, Vicki Baker (Lance) Benefield and Donna Baker (Jay) Hill; three stepdaughters, Elise Ashcraft (Morris) Murphey, Maura Ashcraft (Butch) Melton and Lori Ashcraft (Jeff) Bailey; and one stepson, Tad Ashcraft; his brother, David Baker; sister, Audrey Baker (Steve) Wantling; 11 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.
During his retirement, Andy was an avid gardener and took great pleasure in working in his yard during the summer. He enjoyed all things outdoors. One of his greatest pleasures was spending time with his family.
Crystal De’Ann Brower
WATER VALLEY – Crystal De’Ann Brower, 41, of Water Valley passed away on November 1, 2023, at her residence. She was born on August 26, 1982, in Grenada. Crystal’s sudden and tragic departure has left her family and friends devastated.
Crystal graduated from Water Valley High School in 2000. She found joy in painting in her free time as she expressed her vibrant and creative spirit. When her granddaughter, Ava Kate, came to visit, she loved nothing more than playing dress-up and indulging in their imaginative adventures.
Crystal deeply cherished her family connections. She shared a special bond with her children and her father with whom she frequently spent quality time. Shopping trips and exciting travels with her mom, Carolyn Brower, created treasured memories that will be cherished forever. She also loved her furry companion, Belle, a Boston terrier, that brought immense joy into her life.
To celebrate and honor Crystal’s life, a visitation was held Monday, November 6, in the Gardiner Room of Seven Oaks Funeral Home. The funeral service immediately followed in the Henry Chapel at 2. Interment was at Hopewell Cemetery, Water Valley.
Crystal is survived by one son, Heath (Karly) Williamson; one daughter, Carolyne Card; one granddaughter, Ava Kate; a grandson, Justin Walker Williamson; her father, Roger Brower; her mother, Carolyn Brower; her brother, Bobby Allen; her grandmother, Betty Lee Butler; a niece, Trista Martin; her aunts, Lisa Smith and Sheree Butler; a special nephew, Tucker Allen; her best friend, Laurie Tharpe; and her significant other, Kyle Dean.
Mary Ann Melton
COFFEEVILLE – Mary Ann Melton passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on November 5, 2023, at the age of 80. She was born on June 1, 1943, and was a longtime resident of Coffeeville.
A devoted homemaker, Mary Ann found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She had a heart filled with love and compassion, and she dedicated her life to caring for her family. It was very uncommon to see Mary Ann without her daughter, Tammy. Even so, she had a special place in her heart for all of her children.
Mary Ann was a faithful member of Sylva Rena Baptist Church, where her spiritual values guided her every step of the way. She found solace in her faith and derived immense comfort from the fellowship of her church community. One could often hear her as she sang the hymns, yet, even outside of church she would often be found singing with joy.
When Mary Ann wasn’t busy with her homemaking duties or spending time with loved ones, she sought solace in nature. Camping and fishing were her favorite outdoor activities, where she could immerse herself in the beauty of the surroundings. A lover of exploration, Mary Ann also enjoyed traveling, relishing every opportunity to experience new places and create lasting memories.
A funeral service to honor Mary Ann’s life will be held on Wednesday, November 8, at 6 p.m. in the Henry Chapel of Seven Oaks Funeral Home, Water Valley. Prior to the service, friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation, beginning at 5 p.m. in the Gardiner Room at Seven Oaks.
Those left behind to cherish Mary Ann’s memory include her daughters, Pamela “Tammy” Doubleday, Bridget “Mickey” (Charles) Burks, Jessica “Mindy” Doubleday, and Regina (Rick) Hellesto; her son, James “Marty” (Sheri) Doubleday; as well as 15 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Aaron and Martha Bankston; her husband, Claude Melton; and a son, Jessie Doubleday, Jr.
Margie Estelle Rider
SOUTHAVEN – Margie Estelle Rider, a beloved mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2023, at her home in Southaven surrounded by her loving family. She was 86. Margie was born December 11, 1936, in Water Valley to the Late Earl and Estelle (Patton) Walker.
Margie led a fulfilling life, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know her. After graduating from Water Valley High School, she embarked on a successful career at South Central Bell (AT&T) dedicated to providing exceptional customer service for over three decades. Her unwavering commitment and professionalism earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Margie had a deep passion for art. She found solace and beauty in flowers that she lovingly tended and cultivated in her garden. Margie’s loving nature extended to her cherished pets, who brought her joy and companionship throughout her life.
Margie will be dearly missed by her loving daughter, Sharon Francis; as well as her grandsons, David Francis and Daniel Francis. She shared many precious moments with her family and leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion.
Along with her parents, Margie was preceded in death by her husband of over 65 years, Henry Rider.
A funeral service to honor Margie’s life was held on Friday, November 3, at noon in the Henry Chapel at the Seven Oaks Funeral Home. Interment was in the Walker Cemetery.