Pastor Jimmie Ballard, 85, of French Camp, Mississippi, passed away Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at Choctaw Regional Medical Center in Ackerman, Mississippi.
Jimmie was born on July 27, 1940, to Charlie E. Ballard and Birdie Joiner Ballard in Thomastown, Mississippi. He was raised in the Thomastown community. Jimmie retired from the United States Air Force as a Master Seargent where he served for 21 years, including Vietnam during his enlistment. He pastored at New Haven Baptist Church, Poplar Creek Nations Baptist Church, and Walnut Grove Church. Jimmie was a member of Bethsaida Baptist Church.
Jimmie is survived by his wife, Betty Ballard of French Camp, Mississippi; son, Roger (Katie) Ballard of Springtown, Texas; daughters, Sharon (Greg) D’Angelo of New Orleans, Louisiana and Suzanne (Rick) Story of French Camp, Mississippi; grandchildren, Nicole (Adam) Terrebonne of Prairieville, Louisiana, Ned (Angel) Dudoussat of Metairie, Louisiana, Caitlin (Gabe) Rosamano, of Kenner, Louisiana, Rhett (Samantha) Ballard of Springtown, Texas, Chandler Story of Metairie, Louisiana, Gabriel D’Angelo of Metairie, Louisiana, Tyler Story of Starkville, Mississippi, Miranda (Austin) Williams, of Mathiston, Mississippi, and Petty Officer II Class, Brock Ballard, U.S. Navy of Norfolk, Virginia;11 great-grandchildren; brother, Sam Ballard of MS; and sister, Judy McDaniel of Tennessee.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie Ballard and Birdie Joiner Ballard, brother, Bernard Ballard, and sister, Glenda Collier.
Rev. Everett Eli “PeeWee” Childers, Jr., 77, died Friday, April 25, 2025, at the Mississippi State Veteran’s Home in Oxford, Mississippi.
PeeWee was born on November 25, 1947, in Blytheville, Arkansas, to the late Hazel Brown and Everett Eli Childers, Sr. A veteran of The United States Air Force, he bravely served his country as a Seargeant in Vietnam. In 1983, he answered the call the Lord put on his heart to pursue ministry. PeeWee began his studies at Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary, where he earned his Associate of Divinity in 1986, before continuing his education at The University of Mississippi where he earned his Bachelors of Arts in 1990 and his Masters of Arts in 1992.
His studies provided a firm foundation and understanding of the word of God, which he paired with a passion for ministering to others. Throughout his long and impressive ministry, PeeWee was called to many locations across the South, each of which he would answer with the same eager heart to serve. He began his career as associate pastor of Kensington Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee, and went on to pastor New Prospect Baptist Church in Oxford, Mississippi, Concord Baptist Church in Clanton, Alabama, Temple Baptist Church in Big Point, Mississippi, Orchard Baptist Church in Mobile, Alabama, and Wade Baptist Church in Wade, Mississippi. Each location earned a special place in his heart, and he tried to leave each church better than he found it. He was always in church mode, and never grew tired of his work as a pastor. If ever he grew weary, PeeWee looked to the Lord and his precious family to renew his spirit. He was mission-minded, traveling to many locations around the world on mission trips to spread the word of God and provide valuable aid to those in need. In his leisure, PeeWee loved to spend times with friends and fellow ministers on the golf course and enjoyed music and concerts.
All of the deeply important work PeeWee accomplished throughout his life in ministry would not have been possible without the love and support of his wife, Connie, and his beloved daughters. He treasured his role as a husband and father, considering it his most important calling. In addition to his parents, PeeWee was preceded in death by his daughter, Kristy Paige Childers.
PeeWee is survived by his wife of 52 years, Connie Childerss, of Oxford, Mississippi; two daughters, Dana Brookshire and her husband, Billy, of Nashville, Tennessee and Lori Childers of Oxford, Mississippi; brothers, David Childers and his wife, Cindy, and John Mark Childers and his wife, Theresa, all of New Albany, Mississippi; and two grandchildren, Justice Widel and Christopher Wyatt.
Dr. Joe M. Pate was born on February 20, 1962, in Columbus, MS, to the late John William Pate and Mary Katherine Harcrow Pate. While his family grieves the tremendous loss here on Earth, they rejoice in knowing exactly where he is today. Joe was a dedicated pastor to the very end. He was currently serving two congregations: Pickens Baptist Church in Pickens, MS, and Main Street Baptist Church in Goodman, MS. In addition, he has served in a multitude of pastoring, worship leading, and student ministry roles throughout his 45-year career. Despite a lifetime of medical adversity, his positive outlook and faith shown through as a testimony to everyone he came in contact with. He loved to tell jokes, often beginning his sermons with one, and could come up with a catchy jingle about anything. Those who spent any amount of time with him can most definitely recall a silly moment or two because he loved to laugh and have a good time.
In addition to his parents, Joe is preceded in death by his sister – Linda Inmon; mother-in-law – Edna Boone; father-in-law – Bob Boone; and father-in-law – Donald Jones.
Joe is survived by his wife of 41 years – Cecelia “Ceal” Jones Pate; three daughters – Leah (Luke) Pounders of Clinton, MS, Christina (Cody) Kamper of Enterprise, MS, and Heather (Randy) Burke of Atlanta, GA; seven precious grandchildren – Sabin Neely, Libby Pounders, Leland Neely, Lucas Pounders, Lane Pounders, Charlotte Kamper, and Lovie Pounders; siblings – Barbara Ibarra of Seymour, TN, Patty (Alan) Duffie of Candler, NC, and Curtis Pate of Columbus, MS, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Rev. Henderson Williams, 77, passed away on Saturday, November 8, 2025 at his home. He was a member of Hope Indian Baptist Church and Arrowhead Hunting Club. He enjoyed working outside, fishing, hunting and spoiling his grandkids.
Rev. Williams is preceded in death by his parents, Philmon Williams Sr. and Sarah Williams; son, Rennard Clay Williams; sisters, Selma Williams Denson, Joanna Williams, Annie Bell; brothers, Sammy Williams, Jimmy Williams, Sr., Darry Williams, Henry Lee Williams, Bradley Williams, Wayne Williams, Jonas Williams.
Survivors include his wife, Gloria Williams; daughter, Kara Williams; sons, Ty Williams, Trevor Williams, Justin Williams; sisters, Rose Williams, Wanda Williams, Ruby Williams, Fannie Willis; brother, Olin Williams; 3 grandchildren, Sarah Williams, Rocky Steve, Allyson Williams.
Jimmie Darrell Milam, 91, of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, went home to be with the Lord on August 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Greenbrier, Arkansas in 1934, Jimmie lived a life full of service, adventure, and steadfast faith. At just 16 years old, he joined the U.S. Navy in 1950, serving as a Marine Corpsman in the Korean War. His years in the military took him across the globe, and he treasured the memories formed during those travels, often sharing stories of the people and places he encountered.
Jimmie loved people deeply. He had a way of making strangers feel like friends and friends feel like family. He was known for his strong handshake, big heart, and the twinkle in his eye when he told a good story. He loved fishing—never meeting a fish he didn’t want to catch—and he enjoyed reading just as much. Of all the books he ever read, the one that shaped him most was the Bible. He didn’t just read it—he studied it, lived it, and shared it with others.
Over 50 years ago, Jimmie answered the call to ministry, becoming an ordained minister and dedicating his life to teaching about the love and salvation found in Jesus Christ. His faith was unshakable, and his commitment to the Gospel touched countless lives. Even in moments of stubbornness—as his family affectionately recalls—he always returned to his foundation: his faith in God and his love for his family.
Jimmie shared 65 beautiful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Grace, who was his partner in both life and minstry. Together they built a family rooted in love, laughter, and prayer.
He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Milam; his mother, Lucille Driskell; his brother, Jerry Milam; and his sister, Peggy Simpson.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Grace Milam; his children, Jim Milam (Daisy), Deborah Milam Patrick (Emanuel “Manny”), and Sheli Milam Sams (Bradley); his sister, Patsy Brakebill; grandchildren, Kelly Davis (Karsten), Joey Johnson (Ashlan), Courtney Milam Main (Justin), Matthew Milam (Julia), Peyton Sams, and Avery Sams, Russell Patrick (Kaylin) and great-grandchildren, Knox Davis, Hayse Davis, Magnolia Davis, Emma Davis, Emma Kate Johnson, Caustin Main, Cohen Main, Juniper Milam, Winry Milam, Kinsley Patrick, Andrew Patrick, and Olivia Patrick. His beloved pup, Pepper, was his faithful companion and brought him much joy.
Jimmie’s life was a testament to kindness, service, and the power of faith. He leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to ripple through the lives of his family, friends, and all who knew him. Though his chair may now be empty, his presence will always be felt—in the stories we tell, in the lessons he taught, and in the love he freely gave.
Bro. John Sharp,76, passed away October 07, 2025.
Survivors:
Wife of 56 years: Jan Sharp
2 Sons: Jonathan Sharp (Bethany) and Justin Sharp
2 Grandchildren: Eliana and Isabella Sharp
1 Brother: Bill Sharp
He is also survived by numerous cousins and a countless number of friends.
Bro. Sharp is preceded in death by his mother, Mildred Bassett Sharp and father, John E. Sharp, Sr.
Pallbearers: Randy Bell, Greg Trim, Jimmy Glenn, Ricky Smith, Barry Graham, Ricky Wilkerson, Michael Weaver, and Steve Robinson.
Bro. John Sharp will be remembered for his many years of serving the Lord. Throughout his years of service, he pastored eight churches over a span of 50 years. In the later years of his ministry, he served as an interim pastor for two churches. Bro. John was the director of Missions for Scott County and Newton County for six years. After retirement, Bro. John continued to do supply ministry. His life was centered around sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He also had a love of collecting Antiques and made many friends throughout the years doing so.
Foy Edwin Killingsworth, age 98, a devoted servant of the Lord and beloved husband, father, and grandfather, entered his eternal rest on September 25, 2025. He was born on March 30, 1927, in Belk, Alabama, and spent the majority of his adult life in Mendenhall, Mississippi.
Rev. Killingsworth faithfully pastored for 62 years. He began his ministry at Rose Hill Church in Mize, MS, and over the decades went on to serve in churches throughout Madison, Simpson, and Covington counties, concluding his calling at Weathersby Baptist Church in Mendenhall, where he faithfully served for 22 years. His commitment to sharing the Gospel and shepherding his congregations left a lasting impact on countless lives.
Beyond the pulpit, he was a man of many talents and passions. He loved his family dearly, was an avid and skillful woodworker, and enjoyed spending peaceful hours fishing. Above all, his life was marked by his unwavering devotion to the Lord.
He was preceded in death by his parents, five siblings, and his wife of 69 years, Laura Killingsworth.
He is survived by his three children: Mark (Rheba) Killingsworth, Randy (Donna) Killingsworth, and Karen (Jimmy) Johnson; six grandchildren: Kristal (Stephen) Lane, Jami (Jody) Britt, Juli Johnson, Lindsey (Mike) Vega, Meredith Killingsworth, and Mikaela Killingsworth; and eight great-grandchildren: Marley, Maddie Kate, Jaden, Chloe, Aubrey, Hanna, Kayla, and Jake.
Rev. Killingsworth’s legacy of faith, love, and service will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.
David W. Koons, 84, a retired minister, died September 11, 2025, at his residence. Meredith Nowell Funeral Home in Clarksdale, MS, is handling the arrangements.
David had served in the Navy during the early 1960s and was stationed on the aircraft carrier USS Saratoga. His extraordinary 59-year ministry was a testament to his unwavering commitment and unrelenting passion. In the mid- 70’s, he ignited a love of learning in young minds teaching 5th and 6th grades in Concord, Michigan, and shared his strategic thinking expertise through chess club instruction.
Survivors include his wife of 61 years Norma Jean Wireman Koons of Horn Lake, MS; daughters Melissa Simmons of Horn Lake, MS & Staci (Glen) Campbell of Bloomington Springs, TN; brother Teddy Koons (Vivian) of Homer, MI; five grandchildren Tirzah (John) Rowland, Jacob Simmons, Sabrina (Jonathon) Carlson, Marcus (Hali) Cripps, Alex Cripps; two great grandchildren Oliver Rowland & Spencer Carlson; many family & friends.
Preceded in death by his parents Wesley & Hazel Rowley Koons; brothers Wesley Bernard Koons Jr. & Weston Charles Koons; sister Nancy Miller.
Dr. Edgar Lee Wright, 85, of Natchez, MS passed away on September17, 2025. He was born in Electric Mills, MS on June 25,1940 to Lee Edwin and Maggie Faye Wright.
He was a member of First Baptist Church Natchez. He spent his life in service to the Lord as a minister at Arkadelphia Baptist Church in Bailey, MS for 2 years, New Sight Baptist Church in Brookhaven, MS for 27 years, and Morgantown Baptist Church in Natchez, MS for 15 years. He was a gradate of Meridian High School, William Carey College, and Received his Doctor of Theology from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.
Dr. Wright married his beautiful wife, Marguerite, they were married for 63 years and had three children, Steve, Day and Stan. In addition to his service to the Lord, he enjoyed cooking, singing, sports, and of course his family. He was known for his witty sense of humor and joking personality.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Lera Faye Henson, Margaret Allen and his precious daughter Day Pipper. Dr. Wright is survived by his wife Marguerite, sons Steve Wright wife Tracy of Brookhaven and Stan Wright wife Christy of Gulf Breeze, Florida, grandchildren Hope Carr, Nicholas Manton, Stevie Ann Leggett, Jordyn Wright and Sawyer Wright, greatgrandchildren Charlie Ann, Cooper, and Callum Carr, Ryder and Willa Stephens, Walker and Levi Manton, Riggins and Lottie Ann Leggett; along with many other special loved ones.
The family would like to offer a thank you to many friends and family for their love, prayers, and support at this time.
Rev. Jimmie Dale Houston, 86, of Summit, MS went into the loving arms of his Lord Jesus Christ on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at his residence. He was born in Sarah, MS on January 30, 1939 to Frank Houston and Lois Spencer Houston.
He was a pastor for over 50 years, faithfully preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was a member of Bogue Chitto Baptist Church Carter’s Creek.
Bro. Jimmie was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Lois Houston; sisters Kathryn Sinquefield and Dorothy Wade; and brother Pete Houston.
Survivors are his wife of 65 years, Joyce Grady Houston; sons Tim Houston (Beth) and Bart Houston (Angela); grandchildren, Jason Houston (Kelly), Chance Houston (Julia); great grandchildren Ahlyana, Zander, Kylar, Caroline, and Laura Houston.
In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis TN 38105.
The family would like to give thanks to all the people who prayed for Rev. Houston during this time.
Bro. Paul Wade Morris, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away after an extended illness on September 7, 2025, at the age of 58 at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oxford. Born on July 13, 1967, in Vardaman, Mississippi to the late Thomas and Mary Morris, Paul lived a life dedicated to his family, faith, and service to his country.
Paul graduated from Bruce High School in 1986 before enlisting in the United States Air Force on May 26, 1989. He served his country with honor until his discharge on May 25, 1993, achieving the rank of Sergeant (E-4). During his service, Paul was awarded several commendations, including the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon, and the Air Force Training Ribbon. It was during his time in the Air Force that he met his loving wife, Melissa, the mother of his three children.
Paul pursued a career as a Radiology Technologist at Baptist Calhoun, where he dedicated himself to the healthcare of his community until his retirement. His compassion and expertise in radiology left a lasting impact on the lives he touched.
Paul was an ordained Baptist minister, having been ordained in 1997. His heart was dedicated to preaching the gospel, and he was an active member of the Bruce First Baptist Church, where his faith flourished. Paul loved to play the drums and guitar, often sharing his musical talents with family and friends. He had a deep affection for gardening and spending time outdoors, nurturing both his plants and his relationships.
Paul is survived by his devoted wife, Melissa Eckhardt Morris; his daughters, McKenzie (Clay) Hathcock of Sallis, MS and Hannah Morris of Bruce, MS; his son, Adam Morris of Bruce, MS; his cherished grandchild, Walt Hathcock of Sallis, MS; and his brother, Marvin (Sandra) Morris of Pittsboro, MS. Each of them will carry forward his legacy of love, kindness, and faith.
A public viewing will be held at Parker Memorial Funeral Home on September 9, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, allowing friends and family to pay their respects. A funeral service will take place at the Parker Memorial Funeral Home Chapel on September 10, 2025, at 2:00 PM with Dr. Ryan Reed and Bro. Darrell Logan officiating, where loved ones will gather to celebrate Paul’s life and the indelible mark, he made on all who knew him. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Poplar Springs Cemetery in Vardaman, Mississippi with Air Force Military Honors, where he will be among the blossoms of the gardens he cherished.
Serving as Pallbearers will be Kenny Adams, Earl Adams, Danny Sanders, Damon Bumgart, Trent Long, Greg Owens, Dr. Willie Wells, and Josh Morgan. Along with honorary pallbearers Joey Poteete, Miles Jeffery, Tony Owens, Gerald Newman, and Mike Silas.
In remembrance of Bro. Paul Wade Morris, may we be inspired by his unwavering faith, dedication to family, and love of life. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Paul was preceded in death by his father, Thomas L. Morris, mother, Mary Newman Morris and brother, Terry Lane Morris
