Obituaries 06/11/2026
Mary Louise Sartor Bell
OXFORD – Mary Louise Sartor Bell, a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, child and servant of God, transitioned peacefully from her life on earth on June 2, 2026 in Oxford, Mississippi at the age of 86. Born November 5, 1939, in Water Valley, Mississippi, she was the daughter of Clyde Flake Sartor and Viola Trayser Sartor.
After dating in high school and into college, Mary Louise (Wessie) married the love of her life, James Robert Bell (Jim), on June 14, 1958 (Flag Day). Their love and devotion to each other were a true example of godly love, partnership, friendship and servanthood. They shared three children and were devoted to them, raising them with God’s guidance. Her “mothering spirit” led her to be a “mother” to many children within her churches, schools and communities.
Mary Louise was always very active in leadership roles and teaching in each church that she was a member of. She served in many churches over her lifetime, but primarily in Water Valley United Methodist Church, Raymond United Methodist Church and Corinth United Methodist Church. Mary Louise and Jim joined Oxford University United Methodist Church upon their move to Oxford in 2022.
Mary Louise (Mrs. Bell) taught first grade, kindergarten, and elementary and intermediate gifted education in the Hinds County School District in Raymond and Byram. She touched many lives and helped build a foundation for many children.
Mary Louise leaves behind her loving and devoted husband, Dr. James Robert Bell, “just short” of 68 years of marriage. She also leaves daughters Lisa Bell Davis of Oxford, Lauri Bell Butt (David) of Mobile, Ala., and son James Michael (Mike) Bell (Shana) of Belmont. “Gran” leaves behind grandchildren Jamie Carr of Oxford, Alyssa Thomas (Graham) of Hattiesburg, Shelby Bell (Parker Nelson) of Birmingham, Ala., Tony Butt (Katie) of Mobile, Ala., Mary Bell (Jarrius Kizer) of Henderson, Tenn., Caitlin Butt of Nashville, Tenn., Michael Bell of Nashville, Tenn., and Ramsey Bell of Birmingham, Ala., along with four great-grandchildren, William Carr and Olivia Carr of Oxford, Noah Nelson of Birmingham, Ala., and Aria Kizer of Henderson, Tenn. Wessie also leaves two brothers, Clyde Sartor (Barbara) of Vicksburg and Mike Sartor (Paula) of Water Valley, and sister-in-law Vicki Bell of Water Valley. Additionally, she leaves a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and numerous friends.
Mary Louise was preceded in death by her loving parents, Clyde and Viola Sartor, sister-in-law Beth Crumby (John) and Tom Bell.
A celebration of life was held Tuesday, June 9, at Seven Oaks Funeral Home. Burial followed at Oak Hill Cemetery in Water Valley.
Marion Elizabeth Bratton
OXFORD – Marion Elizabeth Bratton passed away peacefully June 1, 2026, in Oxford at the age of 68.
Marion was born Aug. 14, 1957, in Taunton, Mass., to Theresa Moreau. She dedicated her life to her family and faith and touched the lives of many through her kindness, generosity and compassion for others.
Marion graduated from Austin Peay University and worked as an administrative assistant for much of her professional career. Above all, she cherished time spent with family and friends. She enjoyed sewing, making jewelry, raising chickens, rescuing dogs and gardening. Through her many interests and caring spirit, she created countless memories with those she loved.
Marion is survived by her husband, Keith Bratton; sons Jeremy Harwell (Angela), Demetri Bratton and Ethan Bratton; grandchildren Layla Harwell and Bailey Deaton; and three siblings.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Theresa Moreau; her son, Cody; and three brothers.
The family will hold a private memorial service to celebrate Marion’s life.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Oxford Animal Resource Center in honor of Marion’s lifelong love for animals.
Though deeply missed, Marion will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her kindness, generosity and encouragement of others will continue to be remembered by family and friends.
As Marion often said, “Have your best day!”
John Clyde Easley
WATER VALLEY – John Clyde Easley, age 83, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories cherished by family and friends.
Born on February 5, 1943, in Marks, John exemplified a strong will and a charismatic spirit that touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A proud graduate of Water Valley High School’s Class of 1961, John devoted much of his life to service. He served honorably in the United States Navy before pursuing a career in law enforcement, where he worked as a patrol officer and supported numerous community and charitable efforts.
In addition to his commitment to public service, John found joy in the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a passionate gun collector. His vibrant personality, quick wit and love of making others smile often made him the center of attention. He cherished time spent with family and friends and never missed an opportunity to share a story or create a lasting memory.
John is survived by his loving daughter, Lani Easley (Thomas Ward); his cherished grandchild, Varian “Pax” Ward; his sister-in-law, Margie Pilcher; and his cousin, Carl Easley of Flowood.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Donie Easley; his beloved wife, Carolyn Easley; and his half-siblings, Mark and Kate.
Funeral services will be held at Seven Oaks Funeral Home on Wednesday June 10. A family viewing will take place at 8 a.m., followed by visitation for friends and loved ones at 9 a.m. The funeral service will begin at 10 a.m. as family and friends gather to celebrate the life and legacy of a remarkable man.
Bobby Lloyd Griffin
WATER VALLEY – Bobby Lloyd Griffin, a devoted father, loving son and talented painter, died May 31, 2026, at the age of 35. Born Dec. 7, 1990, in Horn Lake, he was remembered for the warmth and kindness he shared with family and friends.
He is survived by his mother, Pam Winters; stepfather, Gary Winters; brother, Brandon Griffin; sister, Haley Westerfield; stepbrothers Gary Winters Jr., Wesley Winters, Larry Winters, Chris Clements, Clifton Clements and Cory Clements; stepsisters Jennifer Bramlett and Catherine Winters; stepmother Sandra Griffin; and grandmother Shirley Hurst.
Bobby’s greatest pride and joy were his four children, Amelia, Avery, Raylin and Kyson. He cherished every moment spent with them and made sure they knew they were loved.
A skilled painter in the residential construction industry, Bobby was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to his craft. He had a lifelong interest in cars and motorcycles and enjoyed discussing engines and anything powered by horsepower.
Bobby also valued his friendships and shared many memories with close friends Zach Moore and Brandy Daniel-Fultz. His loyalty and kindness left a lasting impression on those who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Griffin; grandparents Robert A. Griffin, Lloyd Little, Laurette Little and Catherine Stroud.
Services were held Monday, June 8, in the Henry Chapel of Seven Oaks Funeral Home.
Charles Lacey Little
WATER VALLEY – Mr. Charles Lacey Little, 80, of Water Valley, passed away Monday, June 1, 2026, at the University of Mississippi Medical Center Grenada. He was born Nov. 25, 1945, in Sumner to Bailey Rex Little and Dorothy Tribble Little.
Charles spent most of his working years in the logging industry, where he earned a reputation as a hardworking and dedicated logger. A true outdoorsman, he enjoyed keeping up his yard, fishing and riding four-wheelers. Above all, Charles was a devoted family man who cherished time spent with those he loved. His kind heart, gentle spirit and unwavering love for his family will be remembered by all who knew him.
He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all whose lives he touched.
Funeral services were held at noon Thursday, June 4, 2026, at McKibben and Guinn Funeral Service in Grenada with the Rev. Kevin Tribble officiating. Interment followed at Wayside Cemetery in Scobey. J.B. Coleman, Bill Lindley, Harvey Little, Raymond Little, Chance Woods and Dalton Woods served as pallbearers.
Survivors include his daughters, Sonia Jackson of Grenada and Cara Branscum of Pell City, Ala.; sons Lacey Little (Celeste) of Cleveland and Stacy Joiner of Grenada; five grandchildren, Lauren Little, Chance Woods, Landon Little, Dalton Woods and Everleigh Branscum; and two great-grandchildren, Olivia and Kaden Woods.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, James Alton Little and Jesse Wayne Burns.