Obituaries 02/19/2026
Zachary Beard
WATER VALLEY — Zachary Beard of Water Valley passed away on February 12, 2026, in Water Valley. He was born on June 29, 2005, in Jackson.
Zachary enjoyed listening to music and spending time with his cousins and family, who meant the world to him.
He leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother, Margaret Beard, and father, Jimmy Jennings, both of Water Valley; his grandparents, William Beard, Cecil Shaw and Patricia Telford, also of Water Valley; and a host of cousins who were more like brothers and sisters, Ethan Battles, Brandon Beard, Edward Jennings II, Dexter Campbell, Dean Campbell, Kristian Campbell, Lilly Campbell, Mary Beard and Courtney Jennings, all of Water Valley. He also leaves many dear friends who will miss him greatly.
Zachary was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Lucy Beard and Carla Jennings, and his great-grandfather, Jimmy Hawkins.
To celebrate his life, the family will receive friends during a visitation on Sunday, February 22, 2026, from 11 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Delay Road Baptist Church, located at 1164 Stephens Street, Water Valley, Mississippi 38965.
Burial will follow at Orwood Cemetery, County Road 333, Taylor, Mississippi 38673. Walker Funeral Services is in charge of arrangements
Roxana Brown
Roxana Brown, a beloved mother and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, at the age of 74. Born on August 25, 1951, in Diaz, Arkansas, Roxana spent her formative years in a close-knit community that shaped her loving spirit. A proud graduate of North Natchez High School in 1969, she pursued her passion for business and marketing, earning an Associate’s Degree from Copiah-Lincoln Community College.
Throughout her life, Roxana was an active member of the First Assembly of God Church, where she passionately taught Sunday School and guided countless children through their spiritual journeys, including the “Missionettes”. Her commitment to her faith extended beyond the walls of the church, as she embraced her role in the ministry organization known as “Women’s Aglow,” fostering community and compassion among women.
Roxana’s contributions in ministry were many as she was a talented seamstress. Her creativity and keen eye for design enabled her to create a variety of projects that brought joy to her family and friends. Her true legacy, however, lies not only in her work but in the deep connections she formed with those around her.
Roxana leaves behind to honor her memory one son, James Dallas Brown of Grenada, MS; grandchildren, Grayson Brown, Emily Brown; one sister, Patricia Boyd (William) of Monterey, LA; niece, Amy Lee; step-siblings, Barbara Stein, Dianne Butler, Carolyn Causey, Ray Seyfarth and Roger Seyfarth.
Roxana was predeceased by her parents, Wilbur Ellis Mauldin and James Claudine Woody Mauldin; husband James Ralph Brown; one brother, Henry Mauldin; two step-brothers, James Seyfarth and Tommy Seyfarth.
The family will hold a memorial service at a later date. Seven Oaks Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Frances Burke
WATER VALLEY – Frances Marie Burke, a beloved mother and grandmother, departed this life on Monday, February 16, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth, and resilience.
Frances was born November 26, 1945, in Water Valley. She was born into a humble life as the daughter of a sharecropper, yet she rose to become a valued Certified Nursing Assistant at Yalobusha County Nursing Home, dedicating over 30 years of her life to caring for others. She possessed an extraordinary spirit of compassion and an unwavering devotion to her family, which was evident in everything she did.
A member of the O’Tuckalofa Baptist Church, Frances found joy in her faith and community. She was an avid reader, especially of her Bible, and delighted in crossword puzzles. Her love for nature and learning was as boundless as her affection for family; she cherished every moment spent with her children—Jerry Burke (Tricia), Larry (April), Linda Davis, and Terry Burke—as well as her 12 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Frances is survived by her loving son Jerry Burke and his wife Tricia; as well as Larry and April, Linda, and Terry. She also leaves two siblings and a host of relatives, friends, and church members who will miss her deeply.
In addition to her parents, Benjamin and Leona Dunn, Frances was preceded in death by her husband, Malcom Burke; as well as seven siblings.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, February 19, at 11 a.m. at Seven Oaks Funeral Home, with visitation starting at 10 a.m. Following the service, Frances will be laid to rest in a serene burial at Pine Flat Cemetery in Lafayette County.
In honoring Frances’ spirit, let us come together to remember not just the loss, but the vibrant life she led—filled with laughter, love, and a commitment to family that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Larry Carr
WATER VALLEY – Larry Carr, 78, passed away on his farm in Water Valley, Mississippi, on Monday, February 9, 2026.
Larry was born June 11, 1947, in Water Valley and remained deeply rooted in the community throughout his life. He graduated from Water Valley High School in 1965. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture from Mississippi State University and later received both a Master’s degree in Education and a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from University of Mississippi. He also served his country as a member of the National Guard.
Larry dedicated his entire career in education to the Water Valley School System, serving as a teacher for thirty years, including nine years as high school principal and physics teacher. Education was his life’s work and his calling. He loved his students and devoted countless hours to mentoring young people through FFA and agricultural education. Even after retirement, he continued to generously give his time and knowledge to others who sought his advice on farming, cattle, beekeeping, fruit trees and country living.
A lifelong farmer at heart, Larry found joy in raising cattle, tending bees and caring for his animals, including his beloved dog, Poncho. He faithfully fed the many birds that gathered daily around his home, even keeping peacocks among them. He had a deep appreciation for the land and for God’s creation.
Larry was a man of strong faith and an active member of First Baptist Church in Water Valley, where he served as a deacon for many years and was also a Gideon. He was a generous supporter of ministries locally and abroad, including missions in Cambodia, India and Vietnam. He never met a stranger and was known for his kindness, generosity and willingness to help others.
Above all, Larry loved his family. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Ann Carr; his children, Cheri; John (Denise); and James (Isla); six grandchildren, Harley Baker, Devyn Baker, Ian Carr, James “Jake” Carr, Marion Carr and Alice Carr; his brother and sister-in-law, Phillip and Leslie Carr, and their daughter, Emily Carr; and his sister and brother-in-law, Yvonne and Don Hunt, and their sons, Kris Hunt and Kevin Hunt.
He was preceded in death by his parents, J.D. “Dick” Carr and Marion Carr.
Larry’s legacy of faith, service, education and love will live on in the many lives he touched.
Floyd McGehee
BATESVILLE – Floyd McGehee, 79, passed away Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Baptist DeSoto Hospital in Southaven.
A service to celebrate Floyd’s life was held at 12 p.m. Friday, February 13, in the Martin Willingham Memorial Chapel of Wells Funeral Home, with interment following at Pilgrims Rest Cemetery with military honors.
Floyd was born April 6, 1946, in Warrington, England, to the late Emmitt Floyd and Marion Pemberton McGehee. He led a life filled with purpose, compassion and commitment to his family and friends.
Floyd began his banking career at Mechanics Bank in Water Valley, where he served for 20 years. He later partnered with his brother Paul to establish M & M Construction, showcasing not only his financial acumen but also his entrepreneurial spirit. He earned a master’s degree in banking as well as an undergraduate degree from the University of Mississippi.
In addition to his professional career, Floyd proudly served in the U.S. Army. He was an enthusiastic supporter of Ole Miss sports, particularly Ole Miss baseball, and was also a loyal fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. He enjoyed woodworking, walking and trout fishing. For 35 years, he dedicated his time to the Magnolia Youth League in Water Valley, mentoring countless young athletes. More recently, he took great pride in watching his grandson excel in sports.
He is survived by his daughter, Camille McGehee Breckenridge (Kent) of Water Valley; his son, Leland Andrew McGehee (Joanne) of Water Valley; his sister, Ann McCain (the late Bill) of Batesville; two brothers, Charles “Jimmy” McGehee (Kathy) of St. Johns, Florida, and Paul McGehee (Debbie) of Senatobia; four grandchildren, Sloan Garner (fiancé Chris Stuart), Brame Garner (Jordan), Houston McGehee and Maren McGehee; one great-granddaughter; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Emmitt Floyd and Marion Pemberton McGehee.