Obituaries 02/13/2025
Donald Harrison Blackwood
WATER VALLEY – Donald Harrison Blackwood, 83, of Water Valley departed this life on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oxford. He was born on March 8, 1941, in Paris, Tenn., to the late Bonnie and Frances Blackwood. Donald was the proud father of three children, Bonnie, Wess and Johnny. A distinguished member of the Class of 1960, he married Debbie Blackwood on August 1, 2003.
In his early career, Donald worked in Chicago for a year and spent six months in St. Louis before dedicating 22 years to Howell Oil Co. where he served as a transport driver. He later became the Manager and Vice President for Blackwood & Howell, committing 41 years to the company. Donald also held the position of Manager for Haypatch Hunting Club, served as Governor #221 for the MS Jaycee Organization, and was a deacon at the First Presbyterian Church. His affiliations included the National L.P. Gas Association, Gulf Gas, and Denton Warren Petroleum Corporation. Additionally, he was an active member of First Faith Baptist Church, where he served as chairman and greeter.
Donald cherished hunting, fishing, working in his yard and spending time with his dogs. He had a fondness for red roses, the color black, and country music with “In the Garden” being his favorite song. He enjoyed watching old westerns, police shows, and Family Feud.
Visitation was held Monday, February 10, at Seven Oaks Funeral Home with the service following at 2 p.m. Bro. Mark Glidewell and Bro. Terry Floyd officiating. Burial followed at Oak Hill Cemetery.
He is survived by his wife, Debbie Blackwood; his children, Bonnie B. Hill and Johnny Blackwood; three grandchildren, Peyton Hill, Catherine Hill, and Ronnie Blackwood; one great-grandson Ryan Blackwood; two step-children Candace Harris and Tony Eder; four step-grandchildren Nixon Eder, Atlas Eder, Madyson Harris and Noah Harris.
Donald is preceded in death by his father, Bonnie Harrison Blackwood; his mother Frances Atchison Blackwood; and one son Wess Blackwood.
Gary Paul Chandler
OXFORD – Gary Paul Chandler, 69, of Oxford, passed away Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Baptist Memorial Hospital North Mississippi. The family has elected not to host any services and will mourn his passing privately, leaning on one another for support.
Gary was born March 12, 1955, in Oxford, one of the six children born to the late Clarence Criss Chandler and Mary Helen Quarles Chandler. He devoted 51 years to his wife, Vicky Davis Chandler. Throughout their marriage the couple established a life characterized by love and companionship.
Gary initially dedicated many years of his professional life to carpentry, where he honed his skills in driving nails and cutting lumber. Afterwards he spent 20 years as a delivery driver for Tom’s Snack and Vending. He later transitioned to the University of Mississippi’s maintenance department, where he served until his retirement.
Known to family and friends as a jack-of-all-trades, he consistently embraced the challenge of repairing and constructing a wide range of items and cultivating a sizable vegetable garden. His approachable personality endeared him to numerous individuals, and his affection for animals was a testament to his warm-hearted character. Gary will be fondly remembered by all who have had the privilege of knowing him.
Gary is survived by his wife, Vicky Davis Chandler of Oxford; two brothers, Randy (Martha) Chandler of Water Valley and Criss Chandler of Water Valley; three sisters, Judy (Joe) Potts of Water Valley, Mary Katherine Melton of Oxford and Amy Billy) Myles of Pearl; six nephews, Jason Lamb, Travis Inman, Shaun Chandler, Joshua Chandler, Kevin Chandler and David Lamb; four nieces: Amanda Cook, Jasmine Hines, Michelle Dees, and Tina Chandler; a special great-nephew, Christopher (Haley) Lamb of Pontotoc; a host of dearly loved nephews and nieces; his mother-in-law, Frances Davis of Oxford; and a sister-in-law, Cathy Davis Flemmons of Oxford.
The staff at Coleman Funeral Home of Oxford assisted the family during this difficult time.
James David Easley
COFFEEVILLE – James David Easley, 75, of Coffeeville, passed away Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at Baptist Memorial Hospital – Desoto in Southaven. He was born October 11, 1949 in Calhoun City to James Clifton and Opal Hudson Easley.
James was a graduate of Calhoun City High School and earned a degree in Education from Mississippi State University in 1971. He worked as an account rep and warehouse manager at Kellwood in Coffeeville for 17 years and concluded his career with eighth years at Heatcraft in Grenada. James was his family’s official “weather man” and always made sure they were aware of any inclement weather coming their way. He cherished his time in the Smokey Mountains with his wife and family. James was a loving grandfather and always looked forward to time spent with his grandchildren. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing as long as his health allowed. He was a member of First Baptist Church – Coffeeville.
Funeral services were held Friday, February 7 at McKibben and Guinn Funeral Service in Grenada with Rev. Craig Baker, Rev. Jerry McNeer and Rev. Truman Scarborough officiating. Interment followed in the Coffeeville Cemetery. Brandon Harrison, Andy Johnsey, Donney Johnsey, Josh Johnsey, Mason Tillman and Troy Wiltshire honored James by serving as pallbearers. Billy Johnsey, Donney Johnsey and Jonathan Johnsey served as honorary pallbearers.
Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Rosanne Johnsey Easley; a daughter, Ingrid (Kyley) Holloway of Grenada; a son, Will Tillman of Lexington, Tenn.; his sister, Mary L. Tyler of Madison, Ala.; four grandchildren, Mason Tillman (Jess), Layla Tillman, Hydi Rose Holloway and Kai Holloway; and one great-grandchild, William Atlyn Tillman.
James is preceded in death by his parents.
Nancy Ruth Giles
WATER VALLEY – Mrs. Nancy Ruth Giles, 84, died Thursday, February 6, 2025, at her home in Water Valley. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, February 12, at 2 p.m. in the Chapel of Waller Funeral Home with Rev. Barrett Milner officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 1 p.m.
Nancy was born on January 6, 1941, in Steele County, Minnesota, to the late Ruth Ellsworth and Del Glover. A lifelong Presbyterian, Nancy nurtured her faith through her membership at First Presbyterian Church of Oxford. She and her husband, Don, were close to celebrating their 66th anniversary of marriage – one filled with a lifetime of love, humor, travel, and lots of good food. From the start of their marriage, Don never had to suffer through a bad meal, as Nancy mastered every dish she made. This love and talent for cooking made her a natural hostess.
As a mother, Nancy was ever-involved in her children’s lives. Even into their adult years, she was considered a best friend and close confidant by each of her children. To some of her children and grandchildren, she was affectionately known as Maynard. She and Don loved to travel, watch movies, and attend various concerts and shows, but she also wasn’t afraid to get her hands dirty. This showed in her gorgeous and overflowing gardens that she lovingly tended to each year, no matter how hot it was in Mississippi. Nancy drew inspiration from her garden when painting, creating art pieces of landscapes and flowers that depicted the beauty she found in the world.
Nancy had a heart for animals, showing mercy and kindness to any creature that crossed her path, most especially her beloved cats and dogs. Despite life’s ups and downs, she maintained a zeal for life, appreciating an occasional glass of champagne and finding little moments to celebrate whenever she could. To Don she was not just a wife, but a best friend, lover, helpmate, supporter, and critic when needed. Nancy will be remembered for her gracious heart, delicious meals, and beautiful gardens, but most of all, for the abundance of love she had for her family. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her granddaughter, Elizabeth Black; a grandson, Austin Melville; and brothers, Larry Glover and Daniel Glover.
Nancy is survived by her beloved husband of 65 years, Donald Giles of Water Valley; daughters, Suzanne Black of Oxford and Sandra (Hilary) Melville of Rochester, Minn.; son, Steven Giles of Crawfordsville, Ind.; former daughter-in-law, Diane Giles of Minn.; sister, Louise Brady of St. Paul, Minn.; brother, Melvin Glover of Addy, Wash.; five grandchildren, Cherish Goergen, Britany Wiste, Chandler Giles, Kayla Giles, and Robin Melville; and 11 great-grandchildren.
Bonnie Sue James
OXFORD – Bonnie Sue James left this world on February 6, 2025, at the age of 66 in Oxford. Born on December 23, 1958, Bonnie was a beloved daughter, sister, wife and friend who brought warmth and compassion to everyone she encountered.
Bonnie is survived by her devoted husband of 43 years, Kenneth James; and her loving sisters, Vickie Waller and Kay Newman, along with their supportive husbands, Gary Waller and Artie Newman. She is also remembered fondly by her nieces and nephews and many others who were touched by her kindness. Bonnie is predeceased by her parents, R.T. Wade and Sally (Few) Wade, as well as her cherished siblings, Connie West and Margaret Cradock.
A dedicated auditor at the Borg Warner plant in Water Valley, Bonnie’s strong work ethic was matched only by her kindness and nurturing spirit. She was fiercely dedicated to her family, often stepping into the role of caretaker for many, always providing love and support to those in need. Bonnie was a passionate gardener, known for her beautiful flower arrangements and her joyful presence in the garden. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as camping, traveling, and playing bunco with friends and family. Her laughter and good-hearted nature will forever be cherished in the memories of those who loved her.
A funeral service honoring her life was held Tuesday, February 11, at Seven Oaks Funeral Home with Dr. Shane Crawford officiating. Bonnie was laid to rest in a burial service at Oak Hill Cemetery in Water Valley.
Walter Earl Richardson
WATER VALLEY – Walter Earl Richardson – a beloved husband, father, and friend – passed away Saturday, February 8, 2025. He was born on November 22, 1957, in Virginia and moved to Water Valley at the age of 15. A proud graduate of Water Valley High School, Walter devoted his life to hard work and was known for his kindness and unwavering love for everyone he met.
Walter’s working career started at Motts Poultry eventually moving to Holley Carburetor (Borg Warner) where he held various positions throughout his 46 years and retiring as set-up. He was a dedicated worker who poured his heart into everything he did. Walter was a dedicated member of Sylva Rena Baptist Church.
Outside of work, Walter had a passion for the great outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, rabbit and deer hunting, and cherished the time he spent with his family, especially his beloved children, Michael (Leighann) and Brandon (Jessica) Richardson; and his cherished grandchildren, Tyler and Anna Kate.
He is survived by his loving spouse, Kay Richardson; his siblings, Bettye (John) Horn, Linda (Steve) Wilkinson, Eddie (Shirley) House, Missy (Bob) Debo, Sara (Steven) Stewart, Iris (Robert) Mason, Norma Pullen and Belinda (David) Danner. Walter touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Family and friends will gather to celebrate Walter’s life during services at Seven Oaks Funeral Home. Visitation will be Thursday, February 13, beginning at noon. The funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. with Dr. Shane Crawford officiating. He will be laid to rest in the family plot located at Sylva Rena Cemetery. Walter’s lasting spirit will continue to inspire all who were fortunate to call him family and friend. He is preceded in death by his parents, Roy Richardson and Bertha (Newcomb) Hix.