Obituaries 07/02/2026

Wesley James Crawford

COFFEEVILLE – Wesley James Crawford, 93, of Coffeeville passed away June 27, 2026.

Born Jan. 21, 1933, in Mobile, Ala., he was the youngest of three children born to Fletcher and Bonnie Crawford.

Wesley is remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, dedicated grandfather and cherished friend.

He shared a remarkable 63 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Eleanor Crawford. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter and cherished memories.

His legacy lives on through his daughter, Lisa Love (Kelly) of Texas; his granddaughter, Caitlan Day (Joseph) of Winona; his grandson, Michael Barnhill of Leakesville; his three great-grandchildren, Madison Barnhill, Matthew Barnhill and Mikayla Day; and several nieces, dear friends and generous neighbors who enriched his life.

Wesley served his country with honor during the Korean War. He endured 13 gunshot wounds in an ambush that forever altered his life. For his courage and sacrifice, he was awarded several military honors, including the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star, recognizing his unwavering dedication to his country.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fletcher and Bonnie Crawford, and his siblings, Rebecca Davis and Fletcher Crawford II.

While his family mourns his passing, they find comfort in the love he shared and the lasting impact he made on all who knew him.

Funeral services celebrating Wesley’s life were held Tuesday, June 30, at 10 a.m. at Turkey Creek Messianic Assembly in Coffeeville. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor his life and reflect on the remarkable man he was.

James Michael Jenkins

WATER VALLEY – James Michael “Mickey” Jenkins, 75, a longtime Oxford firefighter and Water Valley native, passed away June 27, 2026, in Tupelo. 

A graduate of Water Valley High School, Mickey excelled in academics and athletics, serving as both an offensive and defensive lineman for the Blue Devils before graduating in 1969.

His commitment to public service was evident throughout his career. He dedicated 28 years to the Oxford Fire Department. Following his retirement, he served as a fire inspector at the University of Mississippi.

In addition to his career, Mickey had a deep love for music and enjoyed playing a variety of instruments, with the guitar holding a special place in his heart. His interests also included fishing, riding motorcycles and enjoying classic cars.

Mickey was a distinguished member of the Masonic community, attaining the 32nd Degree in both the Scottish Rite and York Rite. He was an active member of Valley City Lodge No. 402, McConico Chapter No. 96, J.J. Melton Council No. 50 and St. Cyr Commandery No. 6. He was also affiliated with the Clarksdale Valley Scottish Rite and was a member of Wahabi Shriners, the Oxford Shrine Club and Water Valley Chapter No. 5, Order of the Eastern Star.

Mickey is survived by his daughters, Monica Brandalin “Brandy” Jenkins of Oxford and Rebecca Rushing (Jason) of Water Valley; his son, Adam Jenkins (Nikki) of Water Valley; five cherished grandchildren, Cameron Halbert (Bailey), Dixie Jenkins, Reed Jenkins, Laken Halbert and Ivy Claire Jenkins; one great-grandchild, Tommy Judd Roberts; and his brother, Rick Jenkins (Deana) of Water Valley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mike Jenkins and Emmie Faye (Howell) Jenkins.

Visitation is Wednesday, July 1, at Seven Oaks Funeral Home beginning at 11 a.m. Funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. Burial is at Oak Hill Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Cameron Halbert, Reed Jenkins, Tim Whitehead, Terry Whitehead, Colby Roberts, Matt Lucas and Julian Gray. Honorary pallbearers will be Steve Hale, Joe Pace, Billy Bonds, Bobby Goolsby, Clarence Williams and Kenny Tidwell.