Obituaries







Joe Edd McAlister - 1933-2024

Joe Edd McAlister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: A05; CMA Member Number: 003


Birth: 15 October 1933

Death: 07 November 2024



Joe Edd McAlister, born on October 15, 1933 in Whiteflat, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2024, in Athens, Georgia, at the age of 91.

Joe dedicated his professional life to TSC Express Trucking, where he served as an Operations Manager from 1970-1988, ensuring the smooth and efficient running of operations. His commitment to his work was matched by his dedication to his country, having served as a proud Veteran of the United States Marine Corps and the Navy Reserves, serving in the Korean War.

A man of faith, Joe was an Elder Emeritus at Covenant Presbyterian Church, where he was a respected member of the community. He was also a devoted mason and a 60-year lodge member, having served as a member of York Rite, a past master of Rico Lodge and a current member of Palmetto Daylight Lodge 755, reflecting his lifelong commitment to service and brotherhood.

Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara McAlister; his sons, Frakes McAlister and Jay McAlister; and his siblings, Bubba McAlister, Ben McAlister, Juanita Brannom, Edith Kelley, and Weldon McAlister.

He is survived by his loving daughter, Suzy Bortles and her husband Rob; his step-son, Prentice Robertson and his wife Cindy; and his cherished grandchildren, Blake Bortles and his wife Kasey, Colby Bortles and his wife Samantha, Brodie McAlister, Brittany Blankenship and her husband Wes, Corey Robertson, and Casey Robertson. Joe was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Remi Bortles, Bowen Bortles, Colton McAlister, Kate Blankenship, and Ryan Blankenship, who brought him immense joy.

A memorial service to honor Joe's life will be held on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Covenant Presbyterian Church, located at 819 GA-314, Fayetteville, GA 30214. Inurnment will follow at Holly Hill Memorial Park.

Joe Edd McAlister will be remembered for his steadfast dedication to his family, his faith, and his community. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and integrity that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at www.parrottfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Covenant Presbyterian Church in Fayetteville, GA, https://www.covenantpres.net/. Funeral services provided by: Parrott Funeral Home, 8355 Senoia Road P.O. Box 66, Fairburn, GA 30213

(Courtesy of Parrott Funeral Home)



Joy Yvonne Starr - 1930-2024

Joy Yvonne Starr Photo

Birth: 9 April 1930

Death: 2 October 2024


Joy Starr passed away on Wednesday October 2, 2024 at a local hospital.

She was born in Smithfield, Texas on April 9,1930 to James and Suzanne Turner. Joy was a CPA and a Board-Certified Genealogist. She was a member of the DAR and the Colonial Dames. She and her husband, Wade, were active members of family genealogy groups including the Gann Family and the Clan McAlister.

Joy was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Wade; her father and mother; her sister, Carol Bingham; and her beloved brother, Don Turner.

Survivors include her daughters, Ayn Conner and Dana Bates; grandchildren, Drew Conner, Erin Nelson and her wife Toni, Meghan Walker and her husband Phillip, Taylor Bates, and Nikki Grace and her husband, John; great-grandchildren, Katlyn and Kai Crocker, Austin and Garrett Hill, and Preston Bates; her sister, Edwina Dye; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Private services will be held.

(Courtesy of Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home & Hillcrest Mausoleum & Memorial Park)


Frank McAlister: Joy was a long-time member of CMA. She was an avid and demanding genealogical researcher. Joy was the point person for members to send their family trees from 2002-2011 and, for a number of years, she chaired the CMA Genealogy Committee. Along with her husband Wade (1928-2015), they made great progress in adding family trees to the CMA Ancestral Database. Joy and Wade both served as CMA Directors and attended many CMA Gatherings. With her CPA background, Joy was an avid proponent for a sound financial footing for our organization. Her contributions to our CMA genealogical archives can be clearly seen in our expansive Wiki holdings.



Robert D. Shoemaker - 1925-2024

Robert D. Shoemaker Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J27; CMA Member Number: 768


Birth: 30 November 1925

Death: 12 August 2024


Robert D Shoemaker, known as “Bob” to family and friends, of Alliance, OH passed away August 2024 at age 98. He was the son of the late Lloyd and Emma Shoemaker. Robert was preceded in death by his wife Margaret “Ethel” (McAlister) Shoemaker; and daughter, Jean Shoemaker; his three sisters, Margarie (Robert) Griffith, June (Rufus) Nunamaker, and Anita Rose (Raymond) Willig and his brother, Carl “Jack” (Myrle) Shoemaker. He is survived by his younger brother, John (Pat) Shoemaker; his daughter Carol (Jim) King; grandchildren, Jennifer (Nick) Roesler and Matthew (Christen) King; and great-grandchildren Nathaniel, Adalyn, and Claire.

Bob grew up in Huntington, IN and was the third of six children. At the time, our country was recovering from “The Great Depression.” He learned at an early age, the value of helping others as well as the importance of teamwork. At eighteen, he was drafted. He chose the U.S. Army. He wanted his feet firmly on the ground. Bob was a lineman in the 410th Artillery Group, which landed on Utah Beach in Normandy on Sept 16, 1944, and then moved across Europe setting up communications via “wire” between the artillery units and command. Around December 1944, the 410th was engaged in combat against the large German counter-offensive “Battle of the Bulge”. Bob served 18 months overseas during WWII. He traveled to Wales, England, France, Luxemburg, Germany, and Austria. He returned home following an honorable discharge in Feb 1946. He was awarded the European Theater Ribbon with four bronze stars (battles), the Good Conduct Medal, and the World War Two Victory Medal. Bob was proud to have served our country, and fought for our freedom. Later, when telling stories to his family, Bob’s positive nature came through, he chose to remember and share humorous and funny stories.

After returning home to Huntington, IN, Bob soon moved to Alliance, OH in 1949 to work for Olan Mills Studio photography. He met Margaret at a dance, and they jitterbugged into marriage in 1950. 

Bob and Margaret bought a house on three acres outside of Alliance, but not far from the McAlister family farm. They had two lovely daughters. They planted a huge garden which became a family project. Bob worked as an insurance salesman for John Hancock Insurance for over 25 years, retiring in 1985. 

Carol married, and gave Bob and Margaret two grandchildren, Jennifer, and Matthew. A great grand-son followed from Jennifer, and two great grand-daughters followed from Matthew. 

Bob’s daughter, Jean, a teacher at Lake Elementary School in Hartville, did not marry. She resided with Bob and Margaret at the family home near Alliance for many years. Jean passed away in April 2015 after a battle with cancer. 

Bob lost Margaret in November 2017 after 67 years of marriage.

Bob loved his family and friends. He and Margaret worked hard to make their home a welcoming and fun place for people to gather. Margaret would cook and bake. Her pies were a favorite, and of course, Bob would dish out the ice cream. Bob loved ice cream! Bob made it his job to involve everyone in the backyard games – croquet, badminton, wiffleball, volley ball, or corn hole. Inside games included cards, ping pong, shuffle board and jig saw puzzles. 

The family went on many outings, such as, mini-golf, picnics, fireworks, parades, festivals, vacations, and local sporting events throughout the years. 

As you can see, Bob loved to be at the center of activity and fun. He was active in church. He was a member of the New Baltimore Athlete’s Club, helped with maintaining the park and ball fields, and played slow-pitch soft ball for many years. Bob bowled for 50+ years, and was still bowling in 2020 only to be interrupted by the pandemic. After his retirement, Bob took up golf, a talent that he then taught and shared with his grandson, Matthew. He also enjoyed playing ping pong at the Alliance Senior Center. Bob was a fun-loving person and enjoyed the people around him. 

Calling hours will be held from 5:00-7:00 on Monday, August 19th at Cassaday-Turkle-Christian Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 20th at Aldersgate Family Methodist Church with 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. calling hours preceding service. Internment will take place at Marlboro Cemetery in Marlboro.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in memory of the Shoemaker family to Aldersgate Family Methodist Church, 11394 Edison St NE, Alliance, OH 44601, or to The Alliance Senior Center, 602 W Vine St., Alliance, OH 44601.

(Courtesy of the Cassaday-Turkle-Christian Funeral Home)



Larry Leon McAlister - 1943-2024

Larry Leon McAlister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J26


Birth: 10 November 1943

Death: 30 July 2024


Larry Leon McAlister, age 80, of Electra, Texas, passed away peacefully Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Hospice of Wichita Falls.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 2, 2024, at the First United Methodist Church of Electra with Rev. Bob Lee, Pastor of First United Methodist Church, officiating. Interment will follow in Electra Memorial Park under the direction of Aulds Funeral Home of Electra.

Larry was born November 10, 1943, in Electra, Texas to the late William Harrison(W.H.) McAlister and Gynal Louise Campbell McAlister.

He was a 1962 graduate of Electra High School.

Larry and his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Linda Lois Fritsche, were married December 29, 1962, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Harrold, Texas. They were married for over sixty years before her passing on February 23, 2023.

He was a farmer and rancher throughout his life. Larry raised his family on the farm and taught them the values of hard work and dedication. He was very much a family man and could always be found watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in the various events they were involved in.

Larry was a man of few words often times and very soft spoken, but if he said something, you had better be listening because whatever he said was usually full of immeasurable wisdom. He was extremely quick-witted and always up for exchanging a good joke or talking politics with anyone who was willing. Larry also loved a good game of 42. Survivors include two sons, Kenneth McAlister and wife, Diane of Electra and Robert McAlister and wife, Laurie of Iowa Park; one daughter, Carla Bowden and husband, Benny of Iowa Park; four brothers, Terry McAlister and wife, Pat of Electra, Albert McAlister and wife, Sue of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Harry McAlister and wife, Barbara of Electra and Amos McAlister and wife, Barbara of Fort Worth; sister-in-law, Annell McAlister of Wichita, Kansas; seven grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and his special family nurse, Jennifer Canafax of Iowa Park.

Larry was also preceded in death by one sister, Glenda Louise McAlister; one brother, Raymond McAlister; and one grandson, Zachary Leon McAlister.

The family suggests memorials to Hospice of Wichita Falls, 4909 Johnson Road, Wichita Falls, Texas 76310.

Funeral Service: 10:00 AM Friday, August 02, 2024, at First United Methodist Church of Electra, 1107 South Bailey Street, Electra, TX 76360.



Thomas Augustus Wright - 1929-2024

Thomas Augustus Wright Photo

Birth: 06 August 1929

Death: 25 June 2024


Thomas Augustus Wright, 94, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2024. Just a week prior, Tom had been to Alaska, a fitting tribute to his love for the outdoors-fishing, hiking, skiing, camping-passions he eagerly shared with family and friends. It was a point of pride to have visited Yosemite every year of his life from 6 months old to well into his 70's, and beyond. Born on August 6, 1929, in San Jose, California, to Thomas Augustus Wright Sr. and Thelma McGirr Wright, Tom graduated from San Jose State, a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.

Tom enlisted in the Navy, first with the SeaBees, followed by the naval reserves, retiring as a Lt. Commander, United States Naval Intelligence, USNR, with twenty-two years combined Active and Reserve service.

In 1958, Tom married Alice Decker McAllister, happily married until her passing in 2018. He worked as a financial executive at Wells Fargo Bank for nearly 30 years, followed by another 30-plus years as a real estate broker with Hill & Co., a career he never truly retired from.

Community service was a cornerstone of Tom's life. Tom found kindred spirits as a member of many genealogical clubs and societies in the United States and England. He was a life member of The Guardsmen, St. Andrew's Society, and The Naval Club, London. He frequented the Pacific-Union Club, and was delighted to become a 50-year member last November. He was a skilled and dedicated player of dominos, bridge, and billiards, fostering lifelong friendships at each table.

Tom's many passions included genealogy, enjoying a daily cigar, reading historic books, fact and fiction, donating blood, and sharing his vast knowledge of turn-of-the-century lore. He had an uncanny knack for making strangers into friends.

"Tom Terrific"/Grandpa TT will be greatly missed by his family, Sally Wright (Brent Bonwell, Santa Fe, NM), Peggy Wright (David Griscom, Santa Fe, NM), and Kathy Wright (Kimmet Holland, Silverton, CO), his grandchildren, Logan Bonwell (Megan), Carly Bonwell, and Chelsea Griscom, and so many dear friends. He was predeceased by his brother, Roderick Wright. A small family service will be held at Cypress Lawn, where he will rest alongside Alice.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle on Jul. 9, 2024.



Carolyn McAllister Rowsell - 1945-2024 u

Carolyn McAllister Rowsell Photo

Birth: 15 December 1945

Death: 26 May 2024


In memory of Carolyn Rowsell born December 15, 1945 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Alvin and Ethel McAllister. In her youth she loved being outdoors - anything from walks to camping for days on end. She was the life of the party everywhere she went.

She married Stanley Rowsell and had two boys: David Rowsell and Danny Rowsell. In her later years, she still loved the outdoors but loved it more when surrounded by family and friends. Her favorite pastime was drinking her wine and doing word searches.

She is survived by her oldest brother Dale McAllister, her youngest Son Danny Rowsell, his daughter Cherish McLaughlin, David's kids Alyssa and Anthony Rowsell. Plus all the other grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and anyone she called family. She will forever be in our thoughts and hearts.

Carolyn is no longer struggling with dementia. She passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 26, 2024. 

A Celebration of life will be held at Palms RV clubhouse on June 29th from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM



Bert Bakker -- 1946-2024

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: C22


Birth: 1946

Death: 18 May 2024


Bert Bakker, 78, died peacefully at Hospice in Lecanto, Citrus County, Florida on 18 May 2024 after a long illness. He was born in Utrecht, Netherlands and came to the United States in 1949 with his family. He is survived by his loving wife Cheryl (nee Jones) Bakker, step-daughter Jennifer (Dozier) Sanders (Benjamin), step-son Benjamin Dozier (Mary), sister Joan (Bakker) Wilcox (Michael), granddaughters Janae Dozier-Sparks and Daisy Pollard, grandsons Jarrod, Blake, and Nicolas Sanders, Dennis and Franklin Pollard and Matthew Dozier-Montalvo. He was preceded in death by his daughter Juliana (Bakker) Pollard (Carl), his sister Jettie Bakker and brother William A. Bakker (Rayna).

Bert retired from the Cleveland Police Department (3rd District) after serving in Traffic and the Ports and Harbors unit. He had been a certified scuba instructor (YMCA and PADI), and was certified by PADI as an Underwater Navigator, Underwater Photographer, Wreck Diver, Rescue Diver, Search and Recovery Diver, and Underwater Police Science Technician.

He was a leader of a Cub Scout troop and assisted his wife Cheryl with her Daisy Girl Scout troop in Mentor. A life-long Episcopalian, he was an acolyte at St. Alban’s Church in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, a member of St. Andrew Episcopal Church, Mentor, Ohio and St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, Crystal River, Florida where he served a term as Jr. Warden.

A Mass of the Resurrection was held 4 June 2024 followed by interment in St. Anne’s Columbarium. He will be greatly missed by all.



Juliana (Bakker) Pollard -- 1985-2024

Juliana (Bakker) Pollard photo

CMA Ancestral Line: C22


Birth: 13 September 1985

Death: 24 April 2024


Juliana Pollard, 38, died peacefully under Hospice Care at home in Columbia, SC on 24 April 2024 surrounded by her loving family. Julie, born in Ohio, resided in Crystal River, FL until recently moving to Columbia. She is survived by husband Carl, children Daisy, Dennis and Franklin, parents The Rev. Cheryl (Jones) and Bert Bakker, mother-in-law Vicki Sharpe (Richard), sister Jennifer Sanders (Benjamin), brother Benjamin Dozier (Mary), aunts Joan Wilcox (Michael) and Rayna Bakker (William, deceased), niece Janae, and nephews Jarrod, Blake, Nic and Matthew.

Julie attended Crystal River middle and high schools and the University of South Florida. She was a woman of strong faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as her Savior, was a member of St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, and later attended Christ Community Church, Lecanto and Calvary Chapel, Irmo, SC. She was instrumental in founding La Leche League in Citrus County and was active in Citrus County Christian Homeschool Group.

There will be visitation at Christ Community Christian Church, Lecanto on Saturday, April 27th from 1:30 -2:00 pm, a funeral service 2:00 – 4:00 pm, followed by a private interment at Fero Memorial Gardens, Lecanto.

She was a loving wife, mother, sister, daughter and teacher and will be greatly missed. Rest in peace, Julie, and may Light Perpetual shine upon you.

(Courtesy of Fero Funeral Home with Crematory & Memorial Gardens)



Elizabeth "Libbet" Ford Paullin Terrell -- 1947-2024 u

Elizabeth (Libbet) Ford Paullin Terrell Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J41


Birth: 17 June 1947

Death: 30 March 2024


Elizabeth “Libbet” Ford Paullin Terrell, 76, of Traverse City, Michigan, passed away on March 30, 2024, at Munson Hospice House surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on June 17, 1947, in Buffalo, New York, to the late Edward and Dorothea (Ford) Paullin Jr. She grew up in Williamsville, New York, until attending Middlebury College in Vermont and earning a B.A. from Michigan State University.

Libbet had a passion for learning that spanned her entire life. She pursued her love for education and earned a master's degree from Central Michigan University in education, becoming a dedicated secondary education social studies teacher and earning highly qualified certification from the Michigan Department of Education. She found particular joy in teaching writing and United States history, and enjoyed her many years of teaching at Traverse City East Middle School, as well as later years at Traverse City Central High School. She specialized in working with students with difficulties, and found great joy when former students returned to see her years later with stories of their personal successes. Libbet left a lasting impact on her students beyond her retirement in 2010.

Outside of the classroom, Libbet had a multitude of interests. She immersed herself in genealogy, cooking, traveling, sailing, skiing, and various craft projects. Her craftsmanship was showcased at numerous craft fairs where she sold her handmade creations.

She cherished her involvement in AAUW, MEA, book clubs, the Grand Traverse Yacht Club, and found fulfillment in supporting women’s literacy and dog rescues. Libbet was proud of her Irish heritage, which she discovered through her genealogy research. She enjoyed several trips to Ireland to visit her reconnected family. Whenever she traveled, Libbet was a promoter for Traverse City, telling everyone she met how lucky she was to live in such a beautiful place. She was also a proud election worker, committed to ensuring the smooth operation of elections. She leaves behind a legacy of service and dedication to her community.

Libbet will be remembered fondly for her zest for life, her love of learning, and her love for her family, friends, and community. Many of the people who enjoyed spending time with her talked about how much fun she was. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She is survived by her three children, Katherine “Katie” Horvath, Julie (Jayson) Horvath, and Christopher “Chris” Horvath, three grandchildren, Elayna Vyas, Leaf Spaulding and Jinta Spaulding, her siblings, Peter Paullin, Patricia “Patsy” Dinsmore along with many other loving family members and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, brother-in-law Will Dinsmore, and sister-in-law Ann Paullin.

A gathering will be held at the Grand Traverse Yacht Club on Sunday, April 28 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. Memorial contributions may be directed to The Grand Traverse Yacht Club Foundation or the Scholarship Fund at the Local AAUW. Kindly share thoughts and memories with her family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.

(Courtesy of Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services)



Marvin E. "Mac" McCallister -- 1935-2024 u

Marvin E. McCallister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J43


Birth: 26 October 1935

Death: 22 March 2024


Marvin E. “Mac” McCallister, 88 of Fishers, IN, formerly of St. Albans, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 22, 2024, with family by his side.

He was born October 26, 1935, in South Charleston, WV, to the late Howard and Mary McCallister. He was also preceded in death by his first wife, Sharleen Skeen McCallister; second wife, Bertha Mae Boggs McCallister; brother, Joseph McCallister and sister, Martha McCallister Kauff.

Mac was the previous owner of Mac’s Garage in St. Albans, WV, and Chestnut Street Exxon in South Charleston, WV.

After retirement, he enjoyed transporting his granddaughter, maintaining his immaculate lawn, gardening and traveling. He was a member of the Washington Masonic Lodge No. 58 A.F. & A.M. of St. Albans, WV and a 32nd degree Scottish Rites Bodies, Charleston, WV. He was active in the Hansford Senior Center and served as past president of the Friends of Hansford Board of Directors. He attended Faith Missionary Baptist Church.

Mac is survived by his son, Mark (Cathy) of Noblesville, IN; granddaughter Emily Knodle (David) of Columbus, OH; brothers Curtis (Sheila), Roger of Glencoe, IL and David Michael of Lugoff SC; stepdaughters Cindy McKee (Danny) of Cross Lanes, and Robin Ellis (Doug) of St. Albans.

A celebration of Mac’s life will be held at 2:00 P.M., Saturday, March 30, 2024, at Bartlett-Nichols Funeral Home, St. Albans, with Rev. Mike Hager officiating. Entombment will follow in Cunningham Memorial Park, St. Albans.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. on Friday, March 29.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Hansford Senior Center. Please make checks payable to, Friends of Hansford Senior Center, 500 Washington Street, St. Albans, WV, 25177 in memory of Marvin “Mac” McCallister.

You may visit Mac’s tribute page at BartlettNichols.com to share memories or condolences with the family.

Bartlett-Nichols Funeral Home, family owned and located at 409 Sixth Avenue, St. Albans is honored to serve the McCallister family.

(Courtesy of Bartlett-Nichols Funeral Home)



Jimmie Ray McAllister - 1945-2024

Jimmie Ray McAllister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: JG02


Birth: 31 July 1945

Death: 19 March 2024


Mr. Jimmie Ray McAllister, age 78 of Stevenson, Alabama (formerly of Grant) passed away Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at his home.

Jimmie was born on July 31, 1945 in Marshall County to Walter & Pearl Bonds McAllister. He will forever be remembered for being a loving man with a big heart. Jimmie truly enjoyed life, nature-especially the mountains, but most of all, his family. He was a man of many talents and could build, make or repair anything he put his mind to.

He is survived by his wife, Deborah McAllister; daughter, Alisha Jones (Chris); son, Patrick McAllister (Christine); step-children, Anthony Jackson (Melissa), Mark Jackson, and Meredith Graham (Dale); grandchildren, Riley Eddleman, Jacob Fennimore, Grace Fennimore, Lunden Isenhower (Bobby); 7 step-grandchildren; and 10 step-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter & Pearl McAllister; brother, Alton McAllister; sister, Ann Setser; granddaughter, Lauren Eddleman; and many aunts and uncles he loved.

Visitation will at Grant Memorial Chapel on Thursday, March 21, 2024 from 5-8 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Grant Memorial Chapel on Friday, March 22, 2024 at 2 p.m. Burial will follow in Free Home Cemetery.

Arrangements Entrusted to Grant Memorial Chapel

(Courtesy of Grant Memorial Chapel)



Phillip McCown -- 1934-2024 u

Phillip McCown Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: A05; CMA Member Number: 007


Birth: 16 January 1934

Death: 10 March 2024


Phillip McCown of Fayetteville, Tennessee, passed away on Sunday.  He was 90.  He was a longtime Christian and member of the Wells Hill Church of Christ.

Mr. McCown served in the United States Army and then graduated from Lipscomb University.  He had retired from Fayetteville Public Utilities after 50 years of service in various roles including Finance Director.   

Phillip loved family and served as his family's genealogist and historian.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Kathleen Wood McCown; His parents, Otis & Linnie McCown;  His siblings:  Carol Chandler, Barbara Spencer, Newman McCown, Joyce Mahal, Gail Cornelius, and Darrine Roper.

Surviving family members include his son, Chuck McCown;  His sister, Judy McCown;  His brother, Danny McCown;  His brother, Joe McCown;  His brother, Larry McCown; He is also survived by a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends. 

A graveside service will be held on Thursday at 12 Noon at Macedonia Cemetery with Bro. Richard McWilliams officiating. Hazel Green Funeral Home is honored to serve the family. 

(Courtesy of Hazel Green Funeral Home)



Lucille McAllister -- 1936-2024 u

Lucille McAllister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: P05


Birth: 5 April 1936

Death: 29 February 2024


Lucille was born on April 5, 1936 in Panguitch, Utah to Joseph and Aza Worthen. Lucille had 8 siblings, 7 children, 2 stepchildren, 17 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends that she loved and cherished. She graduated from Jordan High School and attended technical college to learn shorthand and became a secretary at Granger High Seminary and the Utah Vital Statistics Office. She moved from Panguitch to Garfield, Utah and eventually settled in Salt Lake County where she met the love of her life, Dale McAllister. They spent 46 years in West Jordan, Utah. Throughout her life she was devoted to her family and faith. She held many callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Mom enjoyed and loved everyone. She loved church, camping, her book club and square dancing. She especially loved all things family. She always made sure we had our family Christmas party and wanted everyone there. She always wanted to have a birthday party for everyone as an excuse to get everyone together. She loved her pictures and always wanted to take a photo even though she couldn’t figure out how to use her camera.

Lucille is survived by her husband G. Dale McAllister, sons Jack (Lisa) Tucker, Paul Tucker, Robert Dale (Lynette) McAllister, Michael (Debbie) Tucker, Steve (Kellie) McAllister, and 12 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. Siblings: Wallace Worthen, Fern Lougy, and Gean Martin. She also had numerous nieces, nephews and cousins that she loved very much.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Joseph and Aza Worthen, siblings Jerry, Kenneth, David, Ann, and Myrtle, and 2 children: Carla Jean and Jeffrey.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at 12:00 pm at Jenkins-Soffe South Valley, 1007 W. South Jordan Parkway, South Jordan, Utah. Viewings will be on Monday, March 4 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm and on Tuesday from 11:00 – 11:45 am at the Funeral Home. Interment at Elysian Burial Gardens.

The family would like to thank the many nurses and doctors who helped care for Lucille and all the amazing people at Aspire Hospice and Home Health and the staff at Legacy House.

(Courtesy of Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Chapels & Cremation Center)



Dale Alder McAllister -- 1925-2023 u

Dale Alder McAllister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: P01


Birth: 16 September 1925

Death: 11 November 2023


Dale Alder McAllister, 98, passed away on November 11, 2023. Dale was born September 16, 1925, in Provo, Utah to John Wells McAllister and Mary Myrl Alder. His family moved to California when he was three.

Dale loved music. He played the harmonica and ukelele for a radio contest when he was thirteen. He played the bass trombone in Santa Barbara’s High School band and orchestra. His family moved to Manti, Utah when he was in twelfth grade.

He served in the Eastern States Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Dale served in many different callings - he directed many ward choirs through the years and was usually gospel doctrine teacher in Sunday School.

Dale married Faye Craig. They had five wonderful children: Craig, Mike, Cindy, Jeffrey and Kevin. They raised their family in Arizona and Utah. They later divorced.

Dale loved playing with his children and creating and building fun things for them to play with. He was very mechanically minded and could fix most any machine-including all of his vehicles.

He attended Brigham Young University and was a Twirler of the Baton and a Drum Major in the Marching Band. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Music and a Master’s degree in Bible and Modern Scripture. Dale developed the Old Testament Chronological Chart for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Seminary. He wrote his thesis on the Analysis of the Old Testament Chronology in the Light of Modern Scripture and Scientific Research.

Dale taught music for eight years. He taught seminary for twenty-one years and Institute for two years.

Dale sang in the Tabernacle Choir. He wrote a thirty-minute Christmas Cantata called “Christmas Means Jesus” for ward choirs with three original songs and seven arrangements of Christmas Hymns with scripture narration. Dale composed and arranged musical numbers, hymns and carols. He conducted the Wallsburg Ward Choir and conducted the Midway Stake Choir for the dedication of the new Stake building.

He was an amateur photographer and loved shooting the camera - and has over 11,000 slides.

Dale met and married Laura Young Cieslak in the Provo Temple. He gained a large Bonus Family. Dale and Laura loved to watch football and travel together. They visited numerous places including Niagara Falls, church history sites, Bahamas, Hawaii, multiple national parks-Bryce Canyon being one of his favorites. They have been married for thirty-four years.

He is survived by his loving wife Laura. His children Craig (AnnaRae), Mike (Debby) and Cindy (Joel) Tuaileva. Daughters-in-law Caroline McAllister and Cheryl Hansen. 31 Grandchildren, 106 Great-Grandchildren, and 1 Great-Great Grandchild. Bonus Children: Tammi (Ralph), Julie (Jim), Michal (Richard), Caroline (Morgan), Nathan (Brandi), Aaron (Suzanne), Rachel (Chad), Benjamin (Cheryl). 35 Bonus Grandchildren and 37 Bonus Great-Grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his sons Jeffrey McAllister and Kevin McAllister. Great-Granddaughter Pearl McAllister. His parents and his brothers Wells McAllister and Earl McAllister. His sisters Lucile Weenig and Elaine Moody.

Special thanks to Tiffany, Rosa, and Erin for their Tender Care and Faylene with MAG.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023, from 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM with funeral services to follow at 11:00 AM at the Wallsburg Ward, 494 West Main Canyon Road, Wallsburg, Utah.

Interment will be in the Wallsburg Cemetery.

(Courtesy of Wallsburg Ward)



Stephen McAlister Keating -- 1974-2023 u

Stephen McAlister Keating Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: W10


Birth: 5 July 1974

Death: 30 October 2023


Stephen McAlister Keating of Canton passed away on October 30, 2023, after a brave fight with cancer. He was born in Royal Oak, Michigan on July 5, 1974. He is survived by his beloved wife of twenty years, Lisa Morris Keating, and his children James and Claire, whom he adored. He is also survived by his parents, Mary Lou and Michael Moore and Edward J. (Ted) Keating and Steven Oaks, and his sister, Katherine Keating Edsey and brother-in-law David Edsey.

Steve was raised in Grosse Pointe Farms, and was a 1992 graduate of Grosse Pointe South High School, where he formed a group of lifelong friends. He attended Albion College, and graduated from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas. He later earned an M.B.A. Steve was a twenty-three-year employee of Ford Motor Company, serving in several areas of Logistics, Product Launch and Management. He was proud to work in his role of Material Flow Engineering Supervisor until his last days.

His family was his passion, and Steve fought for them every day of the past four and a half years. He relished vacations with his wife and children, especially when they involved a lake or ocean view.

Steve’s darkest days turned out to be his finest hour — using his time to guide and support others with similar diagnoses. Steve volunteered with the Patient and Family Advisory Committee at the University of Michigan’s Rogel Cancer Center and was featured in a series of orientation videos for new cancer patients. He was loved and respected by all who knew him. His dependability and integrity were well known, as was his kindness and mentoring of those he worked with. He will be greatly missed by all whose lives he touched.

Steve's family will receive guests on Monday, November 6th, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at McCabe Funeral Home, 851 N. Canton Center Rd., Canton. In lieu of flowers, Steve requested two things: support the cancer-related charity of your choice and get screened. He was adamant about not delaying colonoscopies and similar tests, and urged all to visit a doctor about issues they are deferring.

(Courtesy of McCabe Funeral Home)



Doyle Ryburn McKinney -- 1930-2023 u

Doyle McKinney Picture

CMA Ancestral Line: J02


Birth: 10 November 1930

Death: 18 September 2023


On Sept. 18, 2023, Dr. Doyle Ryburn McKinney passed away peacefully in his apartment at South Wind Heights Retirement Residence in Jonesboro.

He lived a long and productive life of nearly 93 years. He served in the United States Air Force for 32 years and another 20 years in public education administration. He was a veteran of both the Korean and Vietnam wars. After a long journey of faithfully serving God, country and family, he is now enjoying his eternal reward in heaven with Jesus.

Doyle, the eldest of six children was born on Nov. 10, 1930, to Russell and Alma McKinney in Manson. A few months after graduating from Delaplaine High School in 1949, he joined the United States Air Force where he eventually served his country faithfully for nearly 32 years.

During a short separation from the USAF, Doyle attended Jonesboro Business College. He met Jan Barber of the Bay/Lake City area, and they were married on Oct. 12, 1956. Shortly afterward, Doyle rejoined the Air Force where he and Jan became a career military family, along with their children, David and Karen.

The many locations where Doyle served in the USAF included bases overseas in Guam and Thailand as well as bases in Louisiana, Texas, Arizona and California. He particularly enjoyed his service at Vandenberg Air Force Base (now a Space Force base) near Lompoc, Calif., where he was assigned for 13 years.

At Vandenberg, as an electronics and radio communications specialist, he worked alongside both military and civilian personnel in the early development of the technologies that support the guidance of ballistic missiles as well as the tracking of satellites. While serving in the USAF, Doyle earned an associate's degree from Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria, Calif., as well as a bachelor's degree from Chapman University in Orange, Calif.

After his years of active duty in the USAF, Doyle and the family moved back to Jonesboro. He continued his educational pursuits and earned both a master's degree and specialist degree from Arkansas State University. He also began his new career in public education.

After serving for several years in the special education department at Trumann High School, Doyle, along with his colleague Jack Bower, established the Craighead County Educational Cooperative. Through the cooperative, both Doyle and Jack provided testing, training and support services to the schools of Craighead County, particularly in the area of special education. Other colleagues joined the cooperative as the venture expanded into other services such as alternative education.

In the mid-1990s, Doyle retired from public education but continued to work part-time. He was a very active member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Jonesboro. His retirement also allowed him to have more time to devote to his loving wife, Jan who was fighting a courageous battle with breast cancer. He was her greatest advocate during those difficult years. After nearly 44 years of marriage to Doyle, Jan entered her rest with Jesus on March 2, 2000.

Later, Doyle moved to Walnut Ridge where he married Pat Erskine. During his years in Lawrence County, he served as the volunteer director of the county's literacy council and also was active with the United States Corps of Chaplains as well as the Gideons. He was a member of the Commemorative Air Force and an avid amateur radio enthusiast.

Doyle and Pat also enjoyed constant activities with friends, family and fellow church members as well as activities at their health club. It was also during these years in Walnut Ridge that Doyle earned his doctorate from California Southern University. After Pat passed away in 2017, Doyle moved back to Jonesboro and became a resident of South Wind Heights. He made many friends during his years at South Wind.

Although Doyle had many pursuits in life that occupied his time, his number one passion was his family. In addition to his happy marriages, he deeply loved his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as his extended family. He truly saw his family as the crown jewel of his life.

In addition to his first wife, Jan Barber McKinney, and his second wife, Pat Erskine McKinney, Doyle was predeceased by his parents, Russell and Alma McKinney, and his brother, Jesse McKinney.

He is survived by his children, Dr. David (Carla) McKinney of Jonesboro and Karen (Ed) Underwood of Phoenix; his stepson, Rick Ladner of Mobile, Ala.; his grandchildren, Paul (Dr. Kelly) McKinney of Newport, Amy (John) Murphy of Jonesboro, Heather (Jonathan) Stanley of Las Vegas, Kevin (Shelbie) Underwood of Ozark, Mo., and Melody (Rob) Rainwater of Walnut Ridge; his great-grandchildren, Joshua McKinney, Elizabeth Murphy, Helen Underwood, Michael Murphy, Mary Emma McKinney, Reed Rainwater and Wyatt Rainwater; his brother, James McKinney of Jonesboro; his sisters, Joan Sellers of Fayetteville, June Kelm of White Oak, Texas, and Elizabeth (Larry) Garner of Jonesboro; and numerous nephews and nieces.

Visitation will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Monday in the chapel of Gregg-Langford Bookout Funeral Home in Jonesboro followed by the service at 2 p.m. with Craig Miller and Paul McKinney officiating. Burial will follow in Jonesboro Memorial Park Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Rob Rainwater, John Murphy, Colby Miller, Scott Watkins, Greg Beavers and Caden Beavers.

Honorary pallbearers will be Mike Miller, Dale Miller, Kevin Underwood, Jonathan Stanley, Norris Watkins and Rick Ladner.

In lieu of flowers, lasting memorial gifts to the Gideons International are encouraged.

(Courtesy of Gregg-Langford Bookout Funeral Home)



Thomas E. McCallister -- 1946-2023 u

thomas e mccallister photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J43


Birth: 16 December 1946

Death: 5 August 2023


Thomas E. McCallister, 76, of Scott Depot, passed away peacefully at his home on August 5, 2023. He was surrounded with the love of his family and dear friends during the last months of his life while facing a recently diagnosed illness.

Born December 16, 1946, in Scott Depot, he was the son of the late Pete and Mary McCallister. He was married to Carolyn Cyrus McCallister for 47 years until her passing April 11, 2013. Tom was also preceded in death by two sisters, Connie Straughan of Hampstead, NC and Carol Sanford of Scott Depot, WV.

Tom was a 1964 Winfield High School graduate and a United States Navy veteran who served his country during the Vietnam War. Later, he joined the West Virginia State Police and then Union Carbide Corporation, before retiring from Aventis. Tom’s first retirement was short lived because we all know, Tom was not a man that could just sit back and relax, He continued helping others with home projects and eventually went to work at Teays Valley Hardware in Scott Depot. He finally retired for good just a handful of years back. He was a person that was happy working and very grateful for all the friendships he made over all of these years.

Surviving Tom are two children, his daughter Dee Rose (husband Scott) of Nitro, WV; and his son Tommy (wife Sherry) of Hurricane, WV; Three grandchildren: Scott McCallister of Nitro, WV; Tanner McCallister (fiancé Abby Ventura); and Tory McCallister of Hurricane, WV; Sibling Terry McCallister of Saint Albans, WV and two nephews Jimmy Straughan of Hampstead, NC., and Ryan McCallister of Saint Albans, WV.

Recognizing that some of the dearest people to Tom held such a special place in his heart, we include Mile Slater and Kenny Johnson, both who spent countless hours with Tom in recent years; and Trish McCormick who provided companionship during the last several years and her presence in the last several months.

Funeral service will be 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at Allen Funeral Home and Tom will be laid to rest at Tyler Mountain Memory Gardens in Cross Lanes beside his wife Carolyn. Visitation will be from 6 til 8 on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, at Allen Funeral Home 2837 Main Street Hurricane, WV.

(Courtesy of Allen Funeral Home)



Ceilia Ann McCallister Stratton Guilbault -- 1946-2023 u

Ceilia Ann McCallister_Stratton_Guilbault Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: G01


Birth: 9 June 1946

Death: 20 June 2023


Ceilia Ann McCallister Stratton Guilbault, 77, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on June 20 after a short battle with cancer. She was born June 9 1946 in San Bernardino, CA to CPT Harold and Margaret Leora (Poteet) McCallister. It was an 'end of the war' love story where Oklahoma girl met Arkansas boy. Their love story lasted for 63 years. Ceilia was raised in a military family so moving became a way of life. She was taught how to fish and hunt by her father and home making skills by her mother.

She graduated from Guthrie Oklahoma High School and Oklahoma State University with graduate work done at Central Oklahoma State University. She began work with the Oklahoma Historical Society in February of 1972 and stayed with the organization through several different jobs-including Curator at the Oklahoma Territorial Museum, Guthrie Oklahoma, where Fred Olds featured her as the model for Miss Indian Territory in his monument sized statue in front of the building; Curator at the State Museum at the state capitol, Oklahoma City; and Director of the Cherokee Strip Museum, Perry, Oklahoma. While at the State Museum, among the many temporary and permanent exhibits one of the largest was the "75 Years of Statehood"-which included giving a guided tour to the governor. At Perry, she and Kathy Dickson initiated a national award-winning program that continues today.

In 1989 she began work for the US Army at Fort Hood, TX as Director of the 2nd Armored Division Museum where she continued for the next 20 years. She describes it as one of the most rewarding jobs of her career. She did a lot of peripheral work for the Center of Military History including many certification inspections of museums throughout the world.

A first marriage produced two beautiful daughters. A much later marriage united her with her life partner and love --Michael Guilbault.

She was a talented artist, whether painting, quilting, card-making, or cooking. She loved food, to garden and to experiment with new recipes. She also loved to hit the casinos on occasion. She was smart, quick-witted and a walking encyclopedia on any history subject.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Lee; her daughter, Kristen Lee; and her sisters, Margaret Jean McCallister and Elizabeth Lauren McCallister.

She is survived by her husband, Michael Guilbault of the home in Mountainburg, AR; daughter Kelli Shafer Yadon and her husband, Craig, Guthrie, OK; grandson Jackson Caldwell Yadon, Guthrie, OK; nieces Maggie Wade, Guthrie, OK; Stephanie Lorance, Oklahoma City, OK; and numerous cousins and friends.

Memorial service will be 1:00 PM Friday, June 30, 2023 at Ocker Chapel of Alma. Cremation and arrangements are under the direction of Ocker Funeral Home of Alma. The service will be livestreamed on the Ocker Putman Funeral Home website.

(Courtesy of Ocker Funeral Home of Alma)



Charles William McAlister -- 1942-2023 u

Charles William McAlister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: CR01


Birth: 2 June 1942

Death: 27 May 2023


Westminster– Charles William McAlister, 80, husband of Lois Blackwell McAlister, passed away Saturday, May 27th, 2023 at his residence.

Born in Stephens County, Georgia, Charles was the son of the late Garnett McAlister and Ellen Murray McAlister. Charles worked at TRW and later retired from Torrington, was a member of Fairview Church of God.

Charles is survived by his beloved wife, Lois Blackwell McAlister of 61 years of marriage; daughter, Denise Hill (Wayne Roach) of Westminster; brother, Joe McAlister of Westminster; sisters, Fannie Lou Smith of New Jersey, Martha Pelfrey of Walhalla, Betty Barker of Westminster; two grandchildren, Nikki Howard and Laura Taylor; and four great grandchildren, Jasmine Dorsey, Katlyn Dorsey, “Little” Charlie Dorsey and Alexis Sanford; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Charles is preceded in death by his infant twin daughters, Charlene and Arlene McAlister; brothers, Frank McAlister and James McAlister; sisters, Beulah McAlister Chappell and Emily Bramlett; and a son in-law, Larry Hill.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm, Wednesday, May 31st, 2023 at Sandifer Funeral Home with burial to follow at Rocky Fork Cemetery. The family will receive friends and family 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, Tuesday, May 30th, 2023 at Sandifer Funeral home.

The family will be at the residence. Flowers are accepted. Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.sandiferfuneralhome.com

(Courtesy of Sandifer Funeral Home)



Roy Raymond Pauley -- 1960-2023

Roy Raymond Pauley Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J43


Birth: 1960

Death: 28 May 2023


Roy Raymond Pauley, 62, of Charleston, formerly of Alum Creek & Yawkey, went home to be with the Lord, Sunday, May 28, 2023, at Hubbard Hospice House West.

Roy was a heavy equipment operator in the coal mining industry.

He was preceded in death by his father, Roy Pauley.

Roy is survived by his mother, Ninnon Pauley.

Funeral service will be 1:00 p.m., Thursday, June 1, 2023, at Curry Funeral Home with Pastor Rick Cooper officiating. Burial will follow at Orchard Hills Memory Gardens. Friends and family will gather one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

(Courtesy of Curry Funeral Home)



William H. "Buddy" McAllister III -- 1942-2023 u

William H Buddy McAllister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: A04


Birth: 1942

Death: 1 May 2023


William H. "Buddy" McAllister III of Fairfax VA succumbed to complications of Covid pneumonia May 1, 2023 at the age of 81, surrounded by his family.

He was born in Durham, NC to Dorothy T. and William H. McAllister Jr. He was raised in the nearby town of Pittsboro, NC along with his sister Margaret and brother Michael. His father, a banker, went overseas as a Navy signalman during WWII leaving Buddy to be raised by his mother and aunts during this period.

It was in Pittsboro where he discovered his lifelong fascination with the Postal Service, often visiting the local Post Office to observe the sorting of the daily mail. Later in life, he wrote of his hometown post office. "Excitement would come twice a day to Pittsboro, my North Carolina hometown of 1,875. Once in the morning and again in the afternoon, folks would gather at the town’s post office to watch the incoming letters slide into their mailboxes. The mail doesn't come to most residents of Pittsboro. They go to the mail."

He was a proud graduate of the University of North Carolina, receiving both Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees. A lifelong journalist, he found his vocation early in life when his Aunt Margaret gave him a toy printing press on which he published a neighborhood newspaper for a penny. He worked for The Washington Post from 1975 to 1999. He served as a reporter on the Virginia staff, became Virginia Editor on the Metro desk, and was promoted to the National Desk as a general assignment reporter. As a reporter, he covered the Reagan White House, The Department of Veteran's Affairs and the Postal Service.

He was a mentor to young writers in the craft of reporting and writing, and cherished his newsroom relationships throughout his life. Prior to the Post, he worked at the Virginian Pilot and the Wall Street Journal. He also served in the US Naval Reserves as a Public Affairs Officer, rising to the rank of Captain in 26 years of service.

After retirement, he continued to write for Linn's Stamp News, continuing his lifelong love of the Postal Service and stamps.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years Rene “Polly” F. McAllister (nee) Farrell; his sons William H. IV (Kathryn) of Newport News, VA, Christopher F. (Leah) of Alexandria, VA, Jonathan T. (Karen) of Narbeth, PA, and Benjamin J. (Eliza) of Chapel Hill, NC; and seven beloved grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 6 at Providence Presbyterian Church, 9019 Little River Turnpike Fairfax, VA 22031. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or Habitat for Humanity.



James Clair Lewis -- 1950-2023

Photo of James Clair Lewis

CMA Ancestral Line: H02


Birth: 25 May 1950

Death: 20 April 2023


James Clair Lewis, 72, of Southington [CT] passed away on Thursday, April 20, 2023, at the MidState Medical Center in Meriden. Jim was born May 25, 1950 in Buffalo, NY and was the son of the late Robert and Elizabeth (McAllister) Lewis. Jim was a sheet metal fabricator by trade, spending the majority of his career working for Morin Corporation in Bristol and Colonial Blower Co. in Plainville. His expertise in sheet metal, coupled with his love of auto racing, brought him to his favorite job/hobby of designing and making parts for many local race cars. He was proud to see "Lewis Sheet Metal" displayed on many cars as they raced throughout the Northeast. After retiring from the sheet metal business, Jim devoted his time to his second passion - buying and selling antiques and "junk", as he loved to say. He loved going to tag sales and flea markets, both buying and selling his treasures.

He is survived by his loving daughter, Jennifer Amalfa, and husband Timothy of Middletown. His absolute pride and joy were his two granddaughters, Skye and Morgan Amalfa, both of Middletown. He leaves behind a sister, Sally Repec, and husband Joseph of Stuart, FL, sister-in-law Dawn Mencio and husband Raymond of Wolcott, and sister-in-law Sandra Membrino of Wolcott. Jim was so lucky to have many dear cousins, nieces, and nephews who he went out of his way to keep in touch with and to connect with despite the distances. The sheer number of dear friends that Jim had all over the world is a testament to the person he was, and he will be deeply missed by all of his family and friends.

Services for James will be celebrated privately with his family. The DellaVecchia Funeral Home, 211 N. Main St., Southington has been entrusted with the arrangements. For online condolence please visit, www.dellavecchiasouthington.com

Published by Hartford Courant on Apr. 23, 2023.

(Courtesy of The DellaVecchia Funeral Home)



Bertha Oleta Roha -- 1939-2023

Bertha Oleta Roha Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: N05


Birth: 7 August 1939

Death: 11 March 2023


Bertha Oleta Roha, 83, slipped peacefully into eternal life Saturday, March 11, 2023, at Texoma Medical Center in Denison, Texas.

Bertha leaves behind her beloved family, husband Daniel Roha, brother Henry Taylor, son Chuck Hooten, daughter Shirley Houston, 3 grandsons, 1 granddaughter, 7 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandson.

Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 18, 2023, at West Hill Cemetery in Sherman, Texas. There is no set time for family visitation.



Richard Reese McDonald -- 1930-2023 u

Richard Reese McDonald Photo

Birth: 28 November 1930

Death: 11 March 2023


It’s with heavy hearts of the McDonald Family to tell you our father Richard R. McDonald passed away March 11, 2023. He was 92, born in Clarksburg, WV, son of Orville and Nelle McDonald and a brother of Robert O. McDonald.

Our father, after graduating from Washington and Lee, was a Geophysicist with the Kilauea USGS in Hawaii and a Naval Reservist with rank of Lt. Commander, where he met and married the love of his life, Mildred Lewis Fullaway, daughter of William H. and Grace A. Fullaway. Our father then went on to serve two tours in Vietnam plus 35 years in the US Navy, retiring at the rank of Captain. Our Mother served in the US Army Nurses Corp. at Kilauea Military Clinic, a Nurse at Tripler Army Medical Center, Bethesda Naval Hospital and the National Institute of Health.

After retirement, our parents split their time in places they loved: Lanikai, Hawaii and Wintergreen, Virginia.

Our parents served their country, but nothing gave them more joy than their four children (Richard T., Geoffrey R., Melissa L., and William R.), nine grandchildren (Tyler, Travis, Grace, Jake, Matthew, Michael, Anna, Sophie and Collin), and three great grandchildren (Damian, James and Gabriel).



David Johnson Wray - 1941-2023

David Johnson Wray Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: R06


Birth: 08 June 1941

Death: 04 March 2023


Mr. David Johnson Wray, age 81, of Providence, NC, passed away on March 04, 2023 at SOVAH Health—Danville.

He was born on June 08, 1941 in Caswell County, NC to the late Johnson Wray and Viola Saunders Wray.

Before his retirement, Mr. Wray worked at Dan River Mills for 25 yrs., and he later worked at IEM Plastics in Reidsville, NC. Also, he farmed for many years.

He is survived by his wife, Jeanette Adkins Wray, of the residence; daughter and son-in-law, Robin and Mike Alderson, of Pelham, NC; grandsons, Andrew Alderson (Emily) and Tyler Alderson (Heather), both of Pelham, NC; great-grandchildren, Kaylin; AJ; Connor; Sarah; and Natalie Alderson, all of Pelham; and brother, Cecil Wray, of Reidsville.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Wray was predeceased by brother, Neil Wray.

Daddy, you worked hard at Dan River and farming tobacco to buy your own farm. When you stopped growing tobacco, you started raising grandchildren. All you ever wanted was a place for your family.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 09, 2023 at Swicegood Funeral Home with Rev. Duane Blevins. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 08, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Danville Memorial Gardens.

(Courtesy of Swicegood Funeral Home)



William Donald ("Old Hickory Don") McAlister -- 1933-2023 u

William Donald McAlister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: A05; CMA Member Number: 17


Birth: 16 September 1933

Death: 17 January 2023


I was born September 16, 1933, and I passed into Glory on January 17, 2023. In the 89 years between, I have had a wonderful life. To have lived this long with as few significant illnesses, have such a loving family, and count hundreds of people as my friends have been a blessing to me. I've been a student, and I've been a teacher. I've been a coach, a principal, and a superintendent. I've been a lobbyist for better public education in the great state of Tennessee. I've been the husband to two lovely and amazing women, father to one child, and stepdad to three. I am the grandfather to two children (one of whom bears my name). I was blessed with two loving parents, a brother, and a sister, and I am an uncle to their children and families. I've written many letters to the editor of The Tennessean and written more poems than you can imagine (yes, I am a poet)! I learned to square dance, and all the ladies wanted to dance with me! I taught myself how to play harmonica as I drove the highways of Tennessee. I hung out with church Olympians in our backyard, and I hunted for and moved large rocks to build the waterfall of our Koi pond. I kissed the Blarney Stone on a trip with daughter #1. I've danced a jig with daughter #2 at Bluegrass Night at the Ryman. I've been to all 50 states, and cranked ice cream on the porch. I built chicken coops, and I lived on a Navy minesweeping ship in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. I was pretty good at crossword puzzles and pretty sad at working my computer. I played golf with a lot of nice guys, drove Meals on Wheels, and sang for folks in the nursing homes. I accepted Jesus as my Savior and put my trust in Him. My favorite spot was sitting in our swing on the patio listening to the waterfall and humming old church hymns. Life has been sweet for the most part. Hard times came and went, but Love conquered all! I know those who loved me will have an awful empty place in their hearts but remember me with joy.

Love Don

Please join our family and friends on Sunday January 22, 2023 at the Donelson Church of Christ 2706 Old Lebanon Rd, Nashville to share memories and stories from 1:00 – 3:00PM followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 3:00PM. Interment will be Monday January 23, 2023 at the Riverview Memorial Gardens, 119 River Dr. Fayetteville, TN at 1:00PM

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.HermitageFH.com for the McAlister family.



Frank C. McAlister -- 1922-2022 u

Frank C. McAlister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J01; CMA Member Number: 541


Birth: 27 December 1922

Death: 5 December 2022


Frank C McAlister passed away peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, December 5, at the age of 94. Frank was born to Augustus C. McAlister and Gladys (Moore) McAlister in Greenville, SC on December 27, 1922. He grew up in Chili, IN where he graduated High School. He was editor of the school paper, senior class president, and active in many sports. After high school, Frank worked at Bryan Manufacturing Co. in Peru Indiana entering as a shipping clerk, and soon worked his way up Personnel Manager of this 1100 employee multi location firm. On July 16, 1944, he married the love of his life Mary Jane Grismore and they were married 63 years until she died in 2007. As truly devoted husband, he wore his wedding ring even after her death as a testament to his love for her. Also in 1944 Frank served his country faithfully in the US Army in France, Germany and Belgium during WWII. He entered as a private. He came back stateside in 1946 with the rank of Battalion Sergeant Major. Using benefits from the G I Bill, Frank enrolled in the IU school of Business and received his MBA degree in 1951 and was a Beta Gamma Sigma scholastic honoree. From 1951-1955, Frank worked at the Spencer Chemical Co. in Kansas and Mississippi as Personnel Manager. He then moved back to Indiana late 1955 and went to work for The Indiana State Chamber of Commerce, first as a 5-year Director of Transportation, and then as Director of Personnel and Labor Relations. He held this until his retirement. During that time Frank was honored with 3 Sagamore of the Wabash Awards under Governors Orr, Bowen, and Bayh. He also received special recognition plaques from the Department of Health and Human Services for his work on child support legislation and was honored by the Indiana Optometric Association receiving the Outstanding Service in the Public Interest Award in 1989. His name was included in the Midwest edition of Who's Who. In addition to work, Frank was very active in many roles at the East 38th Christian Church, the Eastside Family YMCA, the American Legion, Indiana Press Club, Indiana University Varsity Club, School of Business Alumni Association and the Indiana Historical Society. His hobbies included gardening, photography, telling jokes and most of all being a loyal fan of his IU Hoosiers. As a loyal counselor and adviser for family and friends Frank's advice was always sound, reasoned and optimistic. He encouraged you to see the possibilities of your potential and to do "common jobs uncommonly well". He was a true patriot. He believed it the goodness of this country and the duty of each person he dealt with. He encouraged people to "do the right thing." It is easily said that Frank left the world a better place than he found it. His loss will be felt by many.

Survivors include his very grateful son and daughter, Mark and Susan McAlister, along with his grandchildren Daniel, Leith and Brand McAlister, James Roberts, and great-grandchildren, Jax and Lake McAlister; Matthew and Alexandria Roberts.

Funeral services for Frank will be held on Friday, December 8, at 1:00 pm at Wilson St. Pierre Funeral Service and Crematory, Greenwood Chapel. A visitation will be held from 11:00 am until the time of service. Military honors will be rendered at the funeral home immediately following the funeral. Entombment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Frank C. McAlister's name to The Indiana Historical Society, 450 W. Ohio St., Indianapolis, IN 46202.

(Courtesy of Wilson St. Pierre Funder Service and Crematory)



Patrick Robert McAllister, Jr. -- 1967-2022 u

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: J27


Birth: 29 December 1967

Death: 17 November 2022


Sergeant First Class Patrick Robert McAllister, Jr., was a man of great faith and exceptional achievement.

He served his country honorably and selflessly. He was the pride of his wife and family and an inspiration to all those who knew him and with whom he served.

He was born on December 29, 1967, in Bridgeton, NJ, to Patrick R. McAllister, Sr., and Joan McAllister. He attended Cumberland Regional High School, Rowan University and later University of Maryland. On September 11, 2001, not long after the second airplane hit the Twin Towers, he drove to the Army recruitment office and enlisted in the Infantry. He served three tours of combat in Iraq and two tours of combat in Afghanistan. He remained in the military for his career and became a member of the highly prestigious Old Guard of Arlington Cemetery at Ft. Myer. During his service, he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Valorous Unit Award and many others. He also earned the Combat Infantry Badge and the Expert Infantry Badge. Most important to Patrick, however, was the impression he left on his men. Many of his soldiers looked to him as a father that kept them safe through combat, taught them how to be great soldiers, and most importantly – showed them how to be great men. Although he was humble, Sergeant First Class McAllister’s reputation for excellence was well-known everywhere he was stationed. While at Arlington Cemetery, his integrity and honor were memorialized in the U.S. Senator Tom Cotton’s book “Sacred Duty” about the Old Guard and the exceptional devotion of the men who serve in that prestigious unit. Despite battling cancer, Patrick remained on active duty until his retirement in November 2021, after twenty years of service to his country. He was also a lifelong die-hard Eagles fan.

On November 17, 2022, he went to be with his Lord and Savior. His life and memory are forever cherished by his wife, Marlaine; his parents Patrick Sr. and Joan; his brother Ben; his Army brothers and his life-long friends. He is also survived by a brother, Michael, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his precious daughter Laina and his dear sister Kate.

Services will be held 2:00 PM, Friday, November 25th in Greenwich Presbyterian Church, 630 Ye Greate Street, Greenwich, NJ 08323 where friends and family may call from 1:00 to 2:00 PM. Burial with Military Honors will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Wounded Warriors Project or to the Honor Flight Network in Patrick’s memory and honor.



Bob A. McAlister -- 1927-2022 u

Bob A. McAlister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: N05


Birth: 7 February 1927

Death: 12 November 2022


Bob A. McAlister passed away on November 12, 2022, in Burleson, Texas. He was born on February 7, 1927, in Stamford, Texas, and grew up in Stamford, Childress, and Palacios Texas. Bob graduated from Palacios High School in 1943, from Texas A&M University in 1948 as class of '47 with a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, and served in the U.S. Navy during WWII as a radio technician. Bob met his wife, Celia, during an A&M/LSU football game weekend while she was attending LSU in 1946, and they married on August 7, 1948. They were married for over 72 years until Celia passed away in 2020.

Bob worked for Buffalo Forge, McAlister Van Lines, RangeAire Corporation, and Lennox Industries until he retired as branch manager in Austin, Texas. A few years later, he and Celia moved back to Cleburne and lived there for the last 20 years. Bob was active in the Episcopal church throughout his life, and was very involved with the El Buen Samaritano outreach mission and food pantry in Austin. He was an avid historian of the Texas Revolution and the Civil War, and also devoted his time to Save Old Cleburne. Bob was friendly, outgoing, generous, and made numerous friends over the years. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Ores and Mattie, his wife Celia, and his brother Theodore. He is survived by his brother Joe and wife Keeta; sons Robert, James, and Jere; grandsons Trent, Joel, Neal, James Robert, and Steven; great granddaughters Lucy and Mila, and great-grandson Max; daughters-in-law Diane, Cindy, and Carol; and granddaughter-in-law Laura.

Visitation will be on Friday, November 18, 2022, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home in Cleburne, Texas. Graveside service and burial will be on Saturday, November 19, 2022, at 10:00 AM at Cleburne Memorial Cemetery. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM at St. Anthony's Anglican Church in Alvarado, Texas, with the Reverend Cooper Wise Morelock officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Ubuntu Life Foundation (https://www.ubuntulife.foundation).

(Courtesy of Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home)



Roy Lee Myers -- 1929-2022 u

Roy Lee Myers Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J26


Birth: 21 June 1929

Death: 16 October 2022


Roy Lee Myers, 93, of Biscoe, died Sunday, October 16, 2022 at Autumn Care of Biscoe. A Memorial Service will be 1:00 PM Saturday, November 12, 2022 at First Baptist Church Biscoe.

Born in Montgomery County on June 21, 1929, he was the son of Robert Lee and Minnie McLeod Myers. He was a deacon and Sunday school teacher at First Baptist Church Biscoe and a veteran of the US Army, serving during the Korean War. He was a retired educator having taught at Candor for over 30 years. Roy attended Pfieffer College and later graduated from UNC Chapel Hill in 1958. He was also the boys’ basketball coach in Candor and a member of the Lions Club. Roy was preceded in death by his wife, Carol McAlister Myers in 2020, 3 brothers, Robert, J.C. and Carl, and a sister, Catherine Fox Thomas.

He is survived by 2 sons, Roy L. Myers, Jr. and wife Barbara Ezechel Myers and John R. Myers and a grandson, Roy L. Myers III (Trey).

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church of Biscoe, PO Box 36, Biscoe NC 27209.

Briggs-Candor Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

To plant trees in memory of Roy Lee Myers, please visit the website below.

https://www.briggsfuneralhome.com/obituary/roy-myers

(Courtesy of Briggs-Candor Funeral Home)



Jane Greene -- 1937-2022 u

Jane Greene Picture

CMA Ancestral Line: J26


Birth: 15 March 1937

Death: 15 October 2022


Jane McAlister Greene, 85, of Star, passed away on Saturday, 15 October 2022, surrounded by family. Jane was born on 15 March 1937, to Ezra Eugene McAlister and Minnie Blanche Maness McAlister.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert "Bobby" Greene; daughter, Sandra Holleman; three brothers: James, Howard, and David, and two of her sisters, Carol Myers and Martha McAlister.

She is survived by two sisters, Nancy McInnis of Rockingham, NC, and Rebecca Allison of Matthews, NC, as well as three daughters: Beth Greene (Bob) of Raleigh, NC, Susan Maness (Robin) of Summerfield, NC, and Patty Faulkner (Keith) of Grundy, VA; grandchildren: Megan Brandberg (Jake), Will Maness, Hannah Faulkner, Erin Faulkner, and Ryan Faulkner.

Jane was a 1955 graduate of Biscoe High School. She attended Campbell College and received her B.A. in education from The Woman's College (UNC-G). She spent her entire career teaching in the Biscoe and Star Elementary Schools, leaving a lasting impression with her wisdom, creativity, generosity, patience and love for each and every student.

She took great pride in her family, and treasured time spent with her brothers and sisters and their families. She spent her lifetime tirelessly and selflessly providing and caring for, encouraging and praising her children and grandchildren. She also enjoyed gardening, canning, cooking, feeding and watching birds on her deck, Hallmark movies and playing Wordle. She was the family's reigning champion of Scrabble. She sewed many of her daughters' clothes when they were young, made quilts for each of her children and grandchildren and enjoyed scrapbooking in her later years to preserve a lifetime of family memories.

She was a member of Dover Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School, Kids for Christ, and sang in the choir for many years. She set a beautiful example of Christian love and service toward all.

Memorials can be made to the family's scholarship fund: Dover Baptist Church (memo: Bobby Greene Scholarship), 2527 Dover Church Road, Seagrove, NC 27341.

A memorial service will be held at Dover Baptist Church on Sunday, November 6th at 3:30pm.

The Greene family is being served by Phillips Funeral Home of Star.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/jane-greene-obituary?id=36848770

(Courtesy of Phillips Funeral Home of Star)



Virginia Ruth (Porter) McAllister -- 1921-2022 u

Virginia Ruth Porter McAllister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J70


Birth: 7 August 1921

Death: 12 October 2022


Virginia Ruth Porter McAllister was born on August 7, 1921, in Deport, Texas, the daughter of Danial Wright Porter Jr.,, born in Deport, Texas, and his wife, Thursey Charlotte Brackeen Porter, born in Georgia, Texas.

Virginia departed this life in her sleep on October 12, 2022. Unfortunately, she lost her only spouse and daughter before her, A.D. McAllister Jr. and Janet Virginia McAllister Collier (the spouse of Carl Melvin Collier) way too early due to cancer.

While working at the Ear, Nose, and Throat Clinic at Camp Maxie in Paris, Texas, Virginia met A.D., who was training there to become a WWII bombardier. They married on September 1, 1943, in Paris, Texas. At A.D.'s insistence while overseas, Virginia left Blossom, Texas, for Fayetteville, Ark., and the home of A.D. McAllister Sr. (a former Fayetteville Mayor) and his wife, Matilda (who owned and operated Matilda's Dress shop on the west side of the downtown square for 25 years), so that Janet would be born an Arkansan as was A.D.'s only son, A.D. (Lonnie) McAllister III.

Virginia worked as a part-time teacher at the Fayetteville High School, where she taught typing and P.E. When A.D. Sr. became ill, Virginia took over the job of running Matilda's for some 37 years until A.D. became ill. Virginia left behind three grandchildren, Melvin (Mel) Carl Collier, Jr., Meredith Virginia Collier Dowse, both of Fayetteville, and Melanie Dawn McAllister of Mountain View, Ark.; as well as four great-grandchildren, Christopher (Chris) Carl Collier, Jamie Grace Collier, Hailey Vae Dowse, and Katelyn Cartier Dowse, all of Fayetteville. She has one great-great grandson, Braylen McKinley Cate, also of Fayetteville; as well as numerous relatives scattered throughout the state of Texas. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Moore's Chapel in Fayetteville and no services are planned, however the family requests that any memorial donations be sent to either the local chapter of the American Cancer Society or the Junior Diabetes Foundation located at 4241 Gabel Dr Suite 2B, Fayetteville, Ark. 72703. To place an online tribute, please visit www.bernafuneralhomes.com

(Courtesy of Moore Chapel, Fayetteville, AR.)



Daniel K. McAlister -- 1938-2022 u

Daniel K. McAlister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: R02


Birth: 24 July 1938

Death: 9 October 2022


Daniel Kenney McAlister (“Dan”) died at daybreak on Sunday, October 9, 2022 where he met the sunrise and the great mystery beyond in peace and without distress with his wife of 61 years, Martha “Bonnie” McAlister, by his side. Those who knew Dan recall the ever-present twinkle in his eyes – a spark that did not diminish despite a fierce and valiant battle against the Acute Myeloid Leukemia to which he ultimately succumbed.

Dan was born in New York City in 1938, the son of James Schubal McAlister (Spray and Greensboro, North Carolina) and Elizabeth “Betty” Sloan McAlister (Franklin, North Carolina). He grew up in Maplewood, New Jersey and graduated from Columbia High School, Davidson College, Duke University Law School, and the University of North Carolina Executive Program, having married his beloved wife Bonnie along the way. They lived in Charlotte, North Carolina (twice) and Greensboro, North Carolina (twice) and loved their time in both. Over the course of two decades, Dan and Bonnie grew their family by five children, each of whom carry with them the intentionally instilled values of humility, the pursuit of life-long learning, community involvement, service to others, and above all, humor. Anyone who spent more than a few moments with Dan can attest to the way he wove humor into the otherwise ordinariness of life, leaving in his wake laughter and joy.

Dan spent most of his career with Jefferson-Pilot Communications Company (JPCC), the radio/tv/sports production arm of Jefferson-Pilot Corporation, as Senior Vice President and General Counsel. JPCC owned and operated a nationwide group of radio and television stations and was an innovative force in the production and syndication of college sports telecasts. While Dan’s humility precluded him from divulging his integral role in crafting the contracts central to JPCC’s place in the evolution of college sports broadcasting, the fact remains that his role was significant and left its mark in the advancement of televising both the Atlantic Coast Conference and Southeastern Conference games we enjoy to this day.

Dan believed strongly in community service. His lifetime of service began as an Eagle Scout while still in High School. He later served as an Elder at First Presbyterian Church (Greensboro, North Carolina) and at Myers Park Presbyterian Church (Charlotte, North Carolina). He spent many years as Board Chair of the Greensboro Cerebral Palsy Association and had a significant role in the creation of Gateway Education Center, a public school for orthopedically handicapped and medically fragile children; served as Board Chair and was a co-founder of Bell House, a group home for orthopedically handicapped adults; served as Board Chair of Eastern Music Festival, the Bel Canto Company, and the Greensboro Public Schools Excellence Fund; served as a Director of the Greensboro History Museum, Triad Stage, United Arts Council, Carolina Theater Commission, and the Charlotte Oratorio Society; was a United Arts Fund Chair; and served on the WFDD and WDAV Advisory Boards. In addition to these community-facing roles, Dan valued the benefit of anonymous service to others. To that end, he spent many years hidden behind a portable puppet stage as “Aarvy the Aardvark” in a hospice puppet show about grief and loss presented by the Kids Path Program for third graders across the Guilford County School System. Over the years, he helped thousands of young children explore the reality that loss is a part of life.

It was with that same focus on acceptance of loss that he met his most recent journey with cancer. Through messages to friends across the country, meaningful conversations with his family, and posts penned to his CaringBridge site, he reminded those who loved him that the impending end of his own life is a loss to be met with gratitude for the fullness he packed into 84 years. In a recent letter to neighbors, Dan mused “to my mind, this [terminal illness] is not bothersome in the least. I am 84, I am perfectly comfortable with the fact that I will die and, compared to any number of alternative exits, this one really is pretty good. Plenty of time to get things in order, somewhat of a schedule, and no sudden surprise ending.” His family and friends take great comfort in knowing the deep spiritual peace with which Dan met his final sunrise. To live a life to be emulated is an admirable feat; to walk bravely towards death while still modeling to those you leave behind that each moment given to us is a gift to be savored is an accomplishment few can claim. The life lessons Dan leaves in his wake will reverberate for generations through his children, grandchildren, and countless others whose lives were made brighter by his presence. His spark is not dulled by death but, instead, grows brighter through the lives of those left behind.

Dan is survived by his wife Bonnie and their children Sloan McAlister Dudley (Jimmy; children Will, Woodson, and Hallie; Charlotte, North Carolina), Mollie McAlister Jones (Greg; children Jack, Riley, and Cooper; Greensboro, North Carolina), Alec McAlister (Nancy; children Hank, Macy, and Eli; Greensboro, North Carolina), Katie McAlister Wangelin (Chris; children Lily, Siler, and Kenney; Greensboro, North Carolina), and J.D. McAlister (Liz; children Worth and Coeburn; Huntersville, North Carolina), brother Jim McAlister (wife Jane; Redding, Connecticut) Sister-in-Law Amy Gardner (husband Charlie; Silver Spring, Maryland), numerous cherished cousins, nieces, and nephews, and his adoring cat Sylvia. He is predeceased by many beloved family members and friends, which is natural given his age. Additionally, he is predeceased by pets Ralph, Professor Gabel, Bruce, Charcoal, Silver-Bullet the fish, Gator, Jigsaw, Mason, Dixon, Yankee, Boris, Boo, Maggi, Vito, and other animals whose names escape the family at this time.

A celebration of Dan’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, October 16th at First Presbyterian Church, located at 617 N. Elm Street, Greensboro, North Carolina 27401. The service will be followed by a reception in the Mullin Life Center at First Presbyterian. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.haneslineberryfhorthelm.com. The family wishes to thank the medical team members from the Cone Health System, the Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical System, WellSpring Life Plan Community, and AuthoraCare Collective for their caring support of Dan during his illness. In lieu of flowers, the McAlister family requests that you consider a memorial contribution to First Presbyterian Church of Greensboro. The family is also delighted to learn of anonymous acts of service you perform in honor of Dan’s spark.



Theodore Eugene McAlister -- 1931-2022

Theodore Eugene McAlister Photo

Birth: 2 May 1931

Death: 6 October 2022


Fort Worth, Texas - Theodore Eugene McAlister, 91, passed away on Thursday, October 6, 2022 in Fort Worth, Texas.

Funeral: 10 a.m. Tuesday, October 11, at Wade Family Funeral Home, 4140 W. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington. Interment: Restland Memorial Park, Dallas.

Theodore's birth certificate name was Teddy Gene McAlister. Teddy was taken from President Teddy Roosevelt. The name Gene was taken from Gene Autrey. At Princeton, they changed his name to Theodore Eugene which was more in keeping with East Coast proper names.

Theodore McAlister was born in Wichita Falls, Texas on May 2, 1931 to Ores Autrey McAlister and Mattie Adeline Griggs McAlister. His father became Water Supervisor for the Fort Worth and Denver City Railroad. His mother was a telephone operator for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company for Stamford, Texas. Ted was always a mama's boy. Ted has an older brother, Bobby Autrey, and younger brother, Joe Bill. The family moved numerous times to Childress, Palacios, Abilene, Snyder, San Antonio, Abilene (again), and Springtown.

Ted graduated from Abilene High School in 1948 with very high grades. He received a scholarship to Princeton University where he majored in Russian language. He then attended Columbia University where he received his Master's degree. Ted returned to Snyder, Texas and went into business with his father at McAlister Van Lines. Eventually he moved to the real estate business in Snyder, Sweetwater and Abilene. He later moved to San Antonio and managed a real estate investment firm.

Ted became an active member in restoring and preserving historic old homes in San Antonio. He was also active in the Hemisfair in San Antonio by providing visitors with housing. Ted then became an entrepreneur seeking new ideas and working with excellent friends.

Ted was a member of St. Patrick Anglican Church in Hurst, Texas. Through the years, Ted always had a passion for helping outstanding students to attend Princeton University. He traveled the State of Texas to send outstanding students to Princeton University, recruiting them from high school. He was highly successful. Jeff Davis of Fort Worth was one of his recruits and a lifetime close friend.

After moving to Fort Worth, Ted met a man from SMU who told him about a huge collection of plant specimens from all over the world that had been studied in detail. The collection took up so much room and they needed a home for it. Ted went to the Botanic Gardens in Fort Worth and the management was eager to accept it. This was the beginning of the Botanical Research Institute of Texas called BRIT, Many people got involved and contributed much time and help to expand such wonderful work. Ted loved his church. He was a friend to many and now is with Jesus.

(Courtesy of Wade Family Funeral Home)



Gayle Lynn (Warthen) Towery -- 1948-2022 u

Gayle Lynn Towery Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: A05


Birth: 18 April 1948

Death: 29 September 2022


Gayle Lynn Towery was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She left this world peacefully on September 29th at the age of 74.

She was born to Ralph and LaRene Warthen on April 18th, 1948. Gayle has two sisters, and growing up in Hoquiam, WA, she was known as the “pretty” sister. One of our favorite stories about her childhood was when she participated in Logger’s Playday Jubilee, where she was crowned queen. She also participated in the Miss Greys Harbor pageant where she was awarded Miss Congeniality. Her girls used her pageant dresses for dress-up. Gayle left Washington to attend BYU, where she met Randy. They were married on June 3rd, 1970, in the Logan Temple. Randy and Gayle spent the majority of their married life in the same house on Everett, where they raised their family. Jeremy, Wendy, Tammy, Ryan and Erik gave them nineteen grandchildren. Those grandchildren gave them six great grandchildren (so far!).

Gayle loved her children and grandchildren. She put so much thought and effort into creating crafts for the kids to do at family events. For some of the grandchildren, she provided jello for a snack, which is where she gained the name “Grandma Jello”. Grandma Jello always prepared fun snacks for the kids to enjoy during holidays and other events.

Gayle was the epitome of selflessness. Her life was centered around giving to others, never thinking about herself. What she never realized was that the love she gave to people, friend or stranger, was the biggest gift in and of itself. And we all know Gayle knew no stranger! She had a way to make every person in the room feel special.

Gayle suffered from many health problems, but beat all odds. We’ve been able to enjoy her precious smile for many years, and for that we are thankful. We are so grateful to know she is dancing up in heaven, hugging and loving on everyone around her, just like she did on earth.

A funeral service is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 8, 2022 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Montana Ave in Caldwell, with a viewing at Dakan Funeral Chapel from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, October 7, 2022.

(Courtesy of Dakan Funeral Chapel)



Theodore Ralstin McAlister -- 1938-2022

Theodore Ralstin McAlister Pic

CMA Ancestral Line: N05; CMA Member Number: 367


Birth: 23 April 1938

Death: 27 September 2022


Theodore Ralstin McAlister of Sapulpa, OK passed peacefully on September 27th and is now cruising the golden roads of heaven. Ted was born on April 23rd, 1938, in Guthrie, OK to Samuel and Fern Daniels McAlister. He grew up in Okmulgee, OK with his older sister Sammielee. Shortly after high school, Ted married Portra Graham in 1956 and their children were Gregory John, Jeffrey Scott, Stephanie Kaye, Bryan Theodore, and Greta Sue. In 1985 he married Rhonda Tripp Clarkson and their only child was Samantha Raye.

He always had a love of cars and started his working career at the age of 15 working at a filling station. He then worked at Kress 5¢ & 10¢ and became a manager with the opportunity to move to Hawaii. He chose to take his life in a different direction and started selling insurance. From there, he relocated his family to Sapulpa Oklahoma and operated Ted’s 59 minute Wardrobe Dry Cleaners while also working as a supervisor at Banner Engineering. He then moved into becoming the owner of John’s Pawn Shop where he worked for over 30 years. He attempted retirement but couldn’t stay away from work so he went into driving a school bus for Sapulpa Public Schools for 20 years, officially retiring in 2021.

He was a member of the JayCees, Okmulgee Esquires Car Club, Lions Club, Sapulpa Trolley Board, Dragon Masters Car Club, Clan McAlister of America board member, and a member of the Sapulpa Nazarene Church. He was a recipient of the Melvin F. Jones Fellowship award from the Lions Club of America and was the first two time President of the Lions Club in Oklahoma. He also received the Distinguished Service Award from the Sapulpa First Church of the Nazarene.

Ted leaves behind to carry on his legacy, his loving wife Rhonda; his children Jeff & Lisa McAlister, Bryan & Shelli McAlister, Greta Newton, and Samantha McAlister. His most treasured legacy, his grandchildren; Patrick McAlister, Alexandria Brower, Cassidy Henry, Kayla Newton, Jessalyn McAlister, Jacob Hurst, Dillon Youngblood, Lane Youngblood, Porter McAlister, and Peyton McAlister, his 6 great-grandchildren. His nieces & nephew Carolann, Richard, and Nini.

Visitation will be on Friday, September 30th, 2022 from 4-7:00PM at the Smith Funeral Home.

Services will be held at 10:00AM, Saturday October 1, 2022 at the Sapulpa First Church of the Nazarene.

Burial will follow at the Okmulgee Cemetery at 2601 S. Wood Dr., Okmulgee, OK 74447.

(Courtesy of The Smith Funeral Home)



Rev. Frederick David McCallister -- 1929-2022 u

Rev. Frederick David McCallister photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J04; CMA Member Number: 1411


Birth: 16 June 1929

Death: 9 August 2022


Frederick David McCallister, 93, of Southside, WV passed into the loving arms of the Lord on Tuesday, August 9, 2022, at Grant Medical Center in Columbus, OH. He was surrounded by his family. He was the 15th and youngest child of the late Calvin Albert McCallister and the 8th and final child of the late Ida Ellen Dailey McCallister.

Fred was saved at Judson Baptist Church when he was 16 years old. He later married the love of his life, Gloria Lee Harrison in 1950. They had three children together, Regina McCallister Wright, David (Margy) McCallister, &Jennifer McCallister Martin. He worked for many years for Union Carbide at Institute, WV. When he was laid off, which was frequently back in the 50s & 60s, he would take whatever job was available to support his family. He built a simple, brick home on 11 acres in Teays Valley and continued to attend church at Judson Baptist Church on Bills Creek.

Fred began preaching at Silom Church, off of 16-Mile Creek in Southside WV in the mid 60’s. After preaching for a couple years, he was ordained into the ministry and licensed to preach by Judson Baptist Church and was called to preach at the Buffalo Baptist Church in Buffalo WV. Later, he accepted the invitation to come to Harmony/Concord Baptist Church Parrish to preach. After resigning his job at Union Carbide, he became their full-time pastor for 22 years. He retired from the ministry as he was having some health problems, but later began to pastor again at Zion Baptist Church and at his home church of Judson Baptist Church on Bills Creek in Putnam County.

Fred & Harold Maddox were the original men with a plan to build a camp for the area youth to learn about Jesus, through summer camps. Back in the late 50’s when they were the trustees of what later became Teays Valley Church Camp, he and his life-long friend Harold planned out the camp, and how it would be used. It is now known as the Teays Valley YMCA Camp.

While a chaplain at Holzer Medical Center, Fred worked with Art Lund to set up a system for the local Amish Community to have healthcare.

Fred had horses – everyone in the Southside community knew that if they wanted to talk to the pastor, they could meet him at his barn, 6 days a week.

In 1976, the Parrish sent Fred to the Holy Land to walk where the savior walked. He did that – and he was never the same. He showed slides and had many talks about his trip for several years afterwards.

He wrote his real-life stories for the Hurricane Breeze for several years. He was excited to “be published”. He wrote for many years, mostly just for his own pleasure, but he also was in charge of completing the church history for Harmony Baptist & Judson Baptist Churches. He had so much information about both churches and he did not want it to be lost with him.

Fred & Gloria went with a group to Nicaragua on a mission trip. While Fred built a church, Gloria helped with food. This trip became a touch-stone for missions for Fred. He was a huge supporter of missionary work and encouraged the churches he served to do the same.

He held the first McCallister Family Reunion at his home, as an honor for his eldest brother, Oscar. This family reunion was held annually until 2020. He supplied genealogy information and shared any of his findings about the McCallister family. He was very proud of his heritage.

To celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, Fred & Gloria went to Ireland & Scotland and stayed at the McCallister Castle in Kentyre, Scotland. While there, Fred spent a lot of time checking out information of his ancestors.

Family was the most important to Fred. In addition to his three children, he had 9 grandchildren (David (Bethany) Wright, Laura Wright & Andrew Wright, Alan (Jess) Forbus, Kelly (Paul) McCallister Blackmore, Megan (Adam) McCallister Steele, Becky McCallister, Michael Martin, and Jordan (Joe) Martin Hall, & 9 great-grandchildren (David & Ella Jo Wright, Chloe Blake, Penelope Blackmore, Madison & Sadie Forbus, Kaylen Martin, Jolee & Hyatt Hall.) Also, a part of his family was one sister-in-law, Sandy MacCallum of Charleston, and many nephews and nieces.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Fred’s Memory to the Gideon’s International, Mason County Camp. Donation cards/envelopes will be available at the service. Calling hours at Wilcoxen Funeral Home in Pt. Pleasant will be on Saturday, August 13, 2022 from 6 -9:00. Services will be on Sunday, August 14 at 2:00 at Harmony Baptist Church in Southside, with Reverend Ron Stoner officiating. Burial will be at Judson Baptist Church Cemetery in Putnam County.

(Courtesy of the Wilcoxen Funeral Home)

CMA ADDENDUM: Frederick David McCallister (“Reverend Fred McCallister”) served as Chaplain for the Clan McAlister of America (CMA) from 2008-2020. After retirement in 2020, CMA awarded him their Founders Award “in appreciation for outstanding and dedicated service as the appointed chaplain of the Clan McAlister of America 2008 to 2020.”



Sandra Greene Holleman -- 1963-2022 u

Sandra Greene Holleman photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J26


Birth: 12 October 1963

Death: 4 August 2022


Greensboro, NC


Sandra Lynn Greene Holleman, 58, of Greensboro, NC passed away on Thursday, August 4, 2022.

Sandra was born on October 12, 1963 to Robert (Bobby) and Jane Greene of Star, NC.

She was preceded in death by her father and her husband, William (Doug) Holleman.

Survivors include her mother, Jane Greene; sisters Beth Greene (Bob), Susan Maness (Robin), and Patty Faulkner (Keith); nieces and nephews Will Maness, Megan Brandberg (Jake), Hannah Faulkner, Erin Faulkner, and Ryan Faulkner.

Sandra was a lifelong member of Dover Baptist Church. She graduated from East Montgomery High School and UNC-Greensboro with a B.S. in nursing. She worked for more than 30 years as a labor and delivery nurse with Cone Hospital, and made a special effort to be present for the births of all of her nieces and nephews, as well as many of her friends' children.

Sandra lived her life constantly expressing love to others. She gave selflessly and loved unconditionally. She never knew a stranger, and left a lasting impression on her patients, coworkers, friends, and acquaintances. She was compassionate, brave, encouraging, quick witted, and brought smiles and laughter to all with her ability to bring humor to any situation. Her hugs were unmatched, and she had an unlimited listening ear. She was an avid reader, and enjoyed creating fresh cut flower arrangements, taking trips to the beach, and spending time with friends and family, always present in the moment.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, September 18, 2022 at 2:00 PM at Dover Baptist Church in Seagrove, NC.

Memorials can be made to her father's scholarship fund: Dover Baptist Church (memo: Bobby Greene Scholarship), 2527 Dover Church Road, Seagrove, NC 27341.

(Courtesy of Phillips Funeral Home: https://www.phillipsfh.com/obituaries/sandra-holleman)



Mary Jean Fiorini Guglielmino -- 1931-2022

Mary Jean Fiorini Guglielmino Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: P01


Birth: 8 December 1931

Death: 21 July 2022


Mary Jean (Moon) Fiorini Guglielmino, age 90, of Punta Gorda, Florida, passed from this life on Thursday, July 21, 2022.

She was born to the late Charles Glenn and Dulcie Jewell Moon on December 8, 1931, in Kansas City, Missouri. She graduated from Pershing High School in Detroit, Michigan in 1949. Shortly after, she married her first true love, Ignazio "Eddie" Fiorini, and lived a blessed life with him for just short of 50 years (1950-1998). They resided in the Detroit area for over 30 years where they raised their five children before moving to Punta Gorda, Florida where they built TGA Enterprises, their real estate company. She was blessed again in marriage with another loving companion, Sebastian Guglielmino, from 2003-2011.

Mary had a deep love for her family and friends. She was a gentle and kind person who loved unconditionally. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and was a perfect example of Christian faith to all who knew her. Although she was soft spoken, she loved her social groups. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, The Lions Club, Sons of Italy and Moose Lodge to name a few. She loved her country and worked every election possible, but her true passion was researching her family's history through genealogy.

She was an extraordinary woman who left behind her sister, Shirley (Larry) Koebbe, her sisters-in-law, Lucia Sawka and Claire Moon, her children, Diane (Phil) Paonessa, Melissa "Lisa" (Mark) Selleke, Susan (John) Zvara, Joseph Fiorini, and Dennis (Kimberly) Fiorini, her stepson, Joe (Jackie) Guglielmino, her grandchildren, Rachel (Matt) Parker, Ryan (Rachel) Paonessa, Andrew (Stephanie) Paonessa, Jason Selleke, Kelli (Craig) Clemmensen, A.J. Sherman, Jon (Lindsay) Sherman, Terry (Katie) Sherman, Joshua (Charlotte) Fiorini, Jesse (Kristyn) Fiorini, Jenna (Cora) Fiorini, Katelyn Fiorini, Chase Fiorini, Emily Fiorini, Cassie (Keith) Harris, LeeAnn Guglielmino, and Katie Boccanelli, and her 21 great-grandchildren who knew her as "Nonina" and simply adored her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Glenn and Dulcie Moon, her siblings, Helen (Brad) Bradley, Sue (Jim) Earp and Benny Moon, her husbands, Ignazio "Eddie" Fiorini and Sebastian Guglielmino and her stepson, John Guglielmino.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 26 from 2pm-6pm at Kays-Ponger and Uselton Funeral Home, 635 East Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda, with a Funeral Mass on Wednesday, July 27 at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 211 West Charlotte Avenue, Punta Gorda.

(Courtesy of Kays-Ponger and Uselton Funeral Home)



William Alva Deardorff -- 1928-2022

William Alva Deardorff photo

Birth: 28 March 1928

Death: 18 July 2022


William Alva Deardorff, age 94, from South Charleston, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2022, from Parkinson’s Disease.  He was a graduate of South Charleston High School in 1946.  Shortly after graduation, he joined the US Army where he served 2 years in Italy.  He was also the drum major for the US Army band and played the clarinet in the army dance band.

After the war, he attended West Virginia University, earning his pre-Med degree before moving on to medical school in Richmond.  This was also where he met his wife Page who was in nursing school.  After their marriage in 1957, they moved to Detroit, Michigan where Al worked on his Radiology residency at Henry Ford Hospital. During his residency, he had the privilege of treating several celebrities, two of which were Mickey Mantle and Jimmy Hoffa.

Al Deardorff accomplished some great things in the field of Radiology.  The first mammogram done in Charleston was performed by Al.  He brought the first image intensifier to Charleston that was used on top of a Fluoroscope.  The first CT Scanner was brought to Charleston by Al, as was the first Nuclear Scanner.  The innovation that Al was most proud of was his knowledge in the field of Percutaneous Needle Biopsy for diagnosing lung cancer.  He was asked to speak at the Greenbrier on the topic and impressed doctors.  Word spread and he spoke on the same topic at the Homestead in Virginia, which was attended by doctors from the US and Europe.  He then was extended the opportunity to speak in Berlin, Germany in 1974, which was attended by radiologists from all over the world.

Al was President of the Kanawha Valley Medical Society and later became president of Kanawha Valley Senior Services.  He was instrumental in building the new Kanawha Valley Hospital which later became Women’s and Children’s Hospital.

In his spare time, Al coached a Little League Baseball Team and played tennis.  He played tennis well enough to become a Public Courts tennis champion when he was 80 years old.  After retirement, Al enjoyed playing racquetball.  His biggest and most enjoyable hobby was his farm in Griffithsville, WV.  Mowing grass while riding around on his Cub Cadet or Kubota tractor was his happy place.

Al was a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church in South Charleston, and sang in the choir for many years.  He was also a Sunday School teacher.

Al was a patron of the Arts, helping found the Clay Center.  He was a long-time supporter of the Charleston Symphony and the Charleston Light Opera Guild.

Al Deardorff was born on March 27, 1928, at his home on Central Avenue in South Charleston, WV.  His parents were Henry Rosebrough Deardorff and Rose Eldora McCallister. He had one younger brother, Donald Lee Deardorff, now living in Yellow Springs, Ohio.

Al Deardorff is survived by his wife Anita Page Gentry Deardorff of Charleston; son Michael Barry Deardorff of Charleston (wife Kim); daughter Dr. Jennifer Page Deardorff McClung of Williamstown, WV (husband Derek); and son Dr. David Alva Deardorff of Portland OR.  Grandchildren are Michael “Connor” Deardorff of Nashville, TN (Kate); Brooke Deardorff Francke of Charleston (husband Thomas); Alex Deardorff of Titusville, FL (Grace); Joshua McClung of Nelsonville, Ohio (Eva); and Corey McClung of Williamstown, WV.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to First United Methodist Church of South Charleston or Kanawha Valley Hospice Care.  A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 23, 2022, at First United Methodist Church in South Charleston.  Visitation will be from 12:00-2:00 followed by the service.  The Deardorff’s invite everyone to stay for a reception following in the church social hall.

Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Arrangements are in care of Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston.

(Courtesy of Snodgrass Funeral Home)



Hansford Ivan McCallister -- 1944-2022

Hansford Ivan McCallister photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J43


Death: 9 July 2022


Hansford Ivan McCallister, 78, of Montgomery, WV, formerly of Nellis, WV, went to be with the Lord Saturday, July 9, 2022, at Montgomery General Hospital Extended Care. He was preceded in death by his wife Peggy, parents clay &Pearl Gillispie McCallister, and brothers Leonard and Davy McCallister.

He was a retired Master VW Mechanic for Rollyson and Joe Holland, and a member of Morning Star Baptist Church at Ridgeview.

He is survived by his daughter, Janie (Steve) Belcher, son Jason McCallister, sisters Gardenia (Lyle) Snodgrass and Velda Wriston, and brothers Cisco (Cathy) McCallister and Ray (Patty) McCallister. He is also survived by three grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and man nieces and nephews.

Service will be 1:00 pm Thursday, July 14, 2022, at Curry Funeral Home, with Pastor Randell Kinder officiating. Burial will follow at the Kinder Cemetery, Costa/Brushton, WV. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

(Courtesy of the Curry Funeral Home)



Michael David McAllister -- 1963-2022 u

Michael David McAllister photo

CMA Ancestral Line: JG02


Birth: 1963

Death: 4 June 2022


Michael David McAllister, a warrior, a patriot, a man who loved his family beyond measure, and a true child of God, passed away June 4.

Mike was born in 1963 to Alton and Nelda McAllister. He came from a family of great love and strong faith. He and Linda were high school sweethearts at Grissom High School. After marrying in 1981, they were blessed with three children and seven grandchildren.

His life's work was quite remarkable, traveling the globe in support of the American warfighter. In 2009, Mike began working for the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) at the Missile and Space Intelligence Center (MSIC). In 2018 and 2019, Mike was deployed to the Middle East in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve. Upon his return home, he moved to the Weapons Defeat Branch where he served as Senior Defense Intelligence Analyst.

Mike's professional career is highlighted by his always passionate support to the US warfighter, his love of country, and love for his co-workers and colleagues. However, nothing compared to his love of God and his family.

He was preceded by his father Alton McAllister. Survivors include his wife of forty years, Linda Russell McAllister; three children [Connie (Randall) Hajjar, Russell (Heather) McAllister, and Katie McAllister]; seven grandchildren [Abbie and Eli Hajjar; Jake, Ella and Natalie McAllister; Ava and Miriam Holley]; Mother, Nelda McAllister; Brothers Tony and Paul (Loan) McAllister; and many in-laws, nieces and nephews he loved so dearly.

Services will be held Thursday, June 9 at 2:00 at Rivertree Church, 652 Taylor Rd.

In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to the Gideons International, Compassion International, or a church or charity of your choice.

(Courtesy of The Huntsville Times from Jun. 6 to Jun. 8, 2022)



Richard "Dick" McAllister -- 1931-2022

Richard Dick McAllister photo

CMA Ancestral Line: A01


Birth: 27 February 1931

Death: 21 May 2022


Richard “Dick” McAllister passed away at Cedar Grove Assisted Living, Parkersburg, WV, on Saturday, May 21st 2022, where his wife Peggy still resides.

Dick is survived by his wife of 70 years Peggy, his three children; Debby (John) Pitner of Vienna, WV; Mike McAllister of Williamstown, WV and Rick (Denise) McAllister of Tampa, FL.

He is survived by three grandchildren, Sarah, Scott and Taylor; a niece Sherrie and two great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Bob.

Dick was born on Feb. 27, 1931, in Indianapolis, IN, to Robert and Lillian McAllister. He graduated from Indiana University in 1952 with a degree in Chemistry. During his career he held various sales and management positions in the Chemical and Plastics Industry, which took him to many places around the world.

He finished his career as Vice President of Borg Warner Chemicals in Parkersburg, WV and later President of Kemron Environmental Services in Marietta, Ohio. Upon his retirement from the Chemical Industry, he and Peggy started two retail businesses in Marietta: Arts and Letters Book and Gift Store and Marietta Computer.

Dick was very active throughout his life in the Catholic Church and in his final years he and Peggy were members of St. Margaret Mary Church in Parkersburg, WV where he was a Lector and Eucharistic Minister.

Dick was a man of many talents and passions. He was a master chef, painted beautiful pieces of art, played numerous musical instruments and loved to hunt and fish in his younger years. He shared the riches of these interests with all of his family and friends throughout his full life.

About 18 years ago, he became very interested in his family history. In his research, he discovered that he was a fifth generation relative of a Revolutionary War Soldier who is buried in the Mound Cemetery, Marietta, Ohio. This information led him to become very involved with the Marietta Chapter of The Sons of the American Revolution and this was something he was very proud of.

The family is following Dick’s wishes to be cremated. There will be no visitation or funeral. The family will hold graveside services being facilitated by the Marietta Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution at the Mound Cemetery, Marietta, Ohio, on June 20th, 2022, at 11 am.

McClure-Schafer-Lankford Funeral Home in Marietta, Ohio, is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences can be placed on their website at: www.lankfordfh.com/sympathy-note.

(Courtesy of McClure-Schafer-Lankford Funeral Home)



Gary McAlister -- 1956-2022 u

Gary McAlister photo

CMA Ancestral Line: S09


Birth: 20 September 1956

Death: 18 May 2022


Service for Gary McAlister, 65, of Cleburne will be conducted at 10:00 A.M., Monday, May 23, 2022, at Calvary Baptist Church in the Family Life Center. Reverend Charles Payne and Reverend Brooks Monk will officiate. Burial to follow in Rosehill Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00-5:00 P.M., Sunday, May 22, 2022, at the funeral home.

Gary passed away Wednesday, May 18, 2022, in Fort Worth. He was born September 20, 1956, in Cleburne to Willifred Houston and Betsy Louis (Quattlebaum) McAlister. Gary worked as an MOV Tech at various nuclear power plants throughout the USA. He enjoyed many outdoor activities, such as hunting, fishing, farming, boating, scuba diving and extensive travel to many National Parks in the US and Canada. Gary was a big guy with a big heart full of life and joy. He was very independent and self-sufficient with skills to fix anything, a great do-it-yourselfer. He was the Best Big Brother to his “Little Sis.”

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; and grandparents, Benny & Edna Quattlebaum and William and Trannie McAlister.

He is survived by his sister, Darlene McAlister; aunt, Billie McAlister; numerous cousins, and a host of other relatives and friends.

(Courtesy of Calvary Baptist Church)



John D. McAllister -- 1952-2022

John D. McAllister photo

Birth: 29 December 1952

Death: 28 April 2022


Adored father, husband and friend John D. McAllister passed away April 28, 2022 following a valiant, 3-year battle against cancer at Aultman Hospital. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Mary Ann (Grove); and son, Jonathan; as well as four brothers; Tom (Sharon), Bruce (Shirley), Mike (Cheryl) and Larry (Liz) plus many loving nieces and nephews and great and great-great nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Harold and Joan (VanHaverbeke) McAllister.

John spent a majority of his life, laughing and loving in the Canton Area, graduating from McKinley High School in 1970. He graduated from Ohio University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and received his masters of Arts in Education in School Psychology from the University of Akron. Post graduate work in Education Administration was accomplished at the University of Akron and Ashland University.

He devoted his life to the youth, predominantly in education (42 years) and was keen on bringing folks together. This ability shined from his roles from Principal to Director of School Facility Project for Lake Local Schools (expansion); a massive project that broadened the learning landscape for students and teachers alike.

What he didn’t devote to the impressionable future, he gave to his beloved Yankees (sealed in approval by the bicep-encompassing ‘NY’ tattooed on his arm) and his smiling family.

John existed as a vibrancy to every social gathering and a charitable vendor of wisdom to those who were smart enough to seek it.

Your joy to him was a must, as he insisted upon laughter – timely or otherwise; even when you didn’t think you could shake off a bad day, he’d turn you around when you were “sweatin’ the small stuff.”

And so we learned to not sweat the small stuff. Sage, playful, and a fine cornerstone to live by.

As his untimely departure leaves such an immense absence, it cannot be said enough: others’ happiness was and still is priority number one (pending on where the Yanks are in the pennant chase).

His ornery grin, the cascading punchlines, his boyish mannerisms and the wonderful legacy he leaves behind reverberate from the beyond in many of us.

Thus, his wishes were for us to gather, with a little food, drink, family and friendship. All of us together as if we made it to the beach one last time.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, May 22, 2022 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Brookside Country Club, 1800 Canton Avenue NW, Canton 44708.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you continue John’s focus on kids. Please make a memorial donation to Wishes Can Happen, a local charity helping kids and young adults aged 3 to 21 with life threatening illnesses. Log onto wishescanhappen.org or mail to P.O. Box 9428, Canton, Ohio 44711.

(Courtesy of Lamiell Funeral Home)



Robert Jesse McAllister -- 1936-2022 u

Robert Jesse McAllister

CMA Ancestral Line: H02; CMA Member Number: 393


Birth: 25 May 1936

Death: 20 March 2022


Robert Jesse McAllister passed away unexpectedly on March 20, 2022. He was born on May 25, 1936 in York, PA to the late Jesse S. and Margaret E. (Torbert) McAllister.

Bob worked for 33 years as a welder in the refrigeration industry until his retirement at age 80. He was a hunter in his younger years and an avid outdoorsman. Bob traveled extensively with his dear friend, Ike. He was a member of Fawn Grove Church of the Nazarene and loved spending time with his family.

Bob is survived by his dear sister in law, Pat A. McAllister; loving nieces and nephews, Terry L. Moran, Lori A. Pinko, Kenneth L. McAllister (Christine), Deborah Hagen, and William J. McAllister (Carey); 8 great nieces and nephews; and 1 great-great niece; he was predeceased by his siblings, Kenneth L. McAllister, Donald P. McAllister, and Margaret K. McAllister.

A public viewing will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, March 25th, at Hartenstein Funeral and Cremation Care, Inc., 19 S. Main Street, Stewartstown, PA 17363. A funeral service will begin at 12:00 p.m., with interment immediately following in Prospect Cemetery, 8 Orchard Park Rd. New Park, PA 17352. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Fawn Grove Church of the Nazarene, 5300 Fawn Grove Rd, Pylesville, MD 21132.

(Courtesy of Fawn Grove Church of the Nazarene)



Susan Marie Matthews McAllister -- 1953-2022 u

Susan Marie Matthews McAllister

CMA Ancestral Line: J26


Birth: 11 February 1953

Death: 14 March 2022


Susan Marie Matthews McAllister, age 69, a resident of Greenwell Springs, Louisiana, passed away at home on March 14, 2022.

She graduated from Baker High School in 1971, and married James Richard (JR) McAllister at a small chapel in Mandeville, LA, on July 17, 1971. They started their family shortly after and lived in Baker, then Baton Rouge, LA. Susan retired from EBR as a school bus driver. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends and was an avid gardener with beautiful roses.

Susan is survived by her mother, Lillie Mae Guillory Farrell, of Central, LA; daughters, Sandra Ranell Ivy (Charles) of Covington, LA, Kristyne M. Reine (Chris) of Baton Rouge, LA, and Jamie M. Blanchard (Nicolas) of Gonzales, LA; three half-brothers, Robert L. Matthews, Jr. (Robin), Michael G. Matthews Sr. (Gayolyn), and Jeffrey L. Matthews (Christy) of Central, LA; Grandchildren, Dane, Zachariah and Shelby Ivy, Emma and Elaine Reine, Sadie Blanchard and Reese Bamburg. She leaves behind numerous cherished aunts, an uncle, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Preceded in death by her father, Robert Lee Matthews, Sr. (Joyce); beloved husband, James Richard (JR) McAllister; and half-brother, James Paul Chiasson.

Visitation will take place at Resthaven Funeral Home on Monday, March 21, 2022, from 12:00 PM until services at 2:00 PM. Burial will follow onsite.

The pallbearers will be Robert L. Matthews, Jr., Charles Ivy, Chris Reine, Nicolas Blanchard, Dane Ivy, and Zachariah Ivy.

Susan’s daughters extend their heartfelt thanks to Karen Brown for loving and caring for her over the past two years with love and dedication unlike any other. We would also like to thank Susan’s friends for always being by her side and helping with her care, and to Clarity Hospice who lovingly cared for our family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Susan Marie McAllister, please visit our floral store.

(Obituary courtesy of Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70816)



Tommy Lamont McCallister -- 1960-2022

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: J43


Birth: 20 August 1960

Death: 3 March 2022


Tommy Lamont McCallister of Baisden, WV, was born on August 20, 1960 to Zella and Ampless McCallister and went to join them in Heaven on March 3, 2022 at age 61. They are sitting on the banks of the river fishing together once again.

Tommy is survived by: his sons Johnathan (Sarah) McCallister, Daniel McCallister, and Derek (Treshay) McCallister; seven grandchildren; sisters Sue (Wyatt) Smith, Rose Rakes, Peggy (Rodney) Lockwood, Patricia (Terry) Phipps, and Edana (Stevie) Marcus; brothers Ray (Diane) McCallister, Roger (Kathleen) McCallister, and Kelvin (Nancy) McCallister; longtime companion Brenda Godfrey; a special young man Spencer; along with a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Funeral service will be 12:00 P.M., Sunday, March 6, 2022 at Koontz Funeral Home, Hamlin, WV, with Rev. Paul Stevens officiating. Interment will follow in Marcus Cemetery, Hamlin, WV. Visitation will be 11:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. Sunday at Koontz Funeral Home, Hamlin, WV.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to Koontz Funeral Home, P.O. Box 416, Hamlin, WV 25523.

A small obituary notice was published in the Gazette Mail & Herald Dispatch - March 5, 2022

(Obituary was provided Koontz Funeral Home, March 4, 2022.)



Dr. Wayne Kay McCallister -- 1943-2022

Wayne Kay McCallister

CMA Ancestral Line: J04


Birth: 1 September 1943

Death: 28 January 2022


Dr. McCallister was born September 1, 1943 in Muncie, Indiana to the late George and Elizabeth (Atwood) McCallister. Wayne graduated from Indiana University School of Dentistry in June of 1970. He practiced dentistry in Anderson, Indiana from August 1972 to February 2017. Wayne enjoyed photography, gardening and traveling.

He was an avid sailor and outdoor enthusiast. He enjoyed researching family genealogy and history, and sharing his information with friends and relatives across the country, and publishing his collections.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Marion McCallister; his daughter Lorianne McDowell (family: husband Berry, sons, Andrew and Aiden); son, Jeffrey McCallister; sisters, Nancy Barr and Myrna McCallister.

Private visitation and services will be held at Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Service. Burial services will be conducted at Elm Ridge Cemetery in Muncie.

Post online condolences at www.rozelle-johnson.com.

(Courtesy Rozelle Johnson Funeral Service, 229 S. Rangeline Road, Anderson, IN 46012, 765-643-7474)



Joyce Lucille Premeaux -- 1923-2021

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: B07


Birth: 20 August 1923

Death: 16 December 2021


Joyce Lucille Premeaux, age 98, of Tucson, Arizona passed away on Thursday, December 16, 2021. Joyce was born August 20, 1923 in Fenton MI. Joyce was daughter of Harmon Straugh and Muriel McAllister. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.eastlawnpalmsmortuary.com for the Premeaux family.

(Courtesy of East Lawn Palms Mortuary & Cemetery)



Penta Love -- 1927-2021 u

Penta Love Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J26


Birth: 6 February 1927

Death: 13 December 2021


Penta was born Feb. 6, 1927, in Alexis, N.C., to Finley M. Burgin and Effie McAllister Burgin. After college, she was secretary of the First Baptist Church of Charlotte, where she met Davis Love Jr. Her first trip to Sea Island was her honeymoon. She was the best golf student Davis ever had, an expert player all her life, and accomplished the rare feat of shooting her age starting at 73. Penta was also a loving mother, grandmother, golf partner for her boys, backyard farmer and excelled in the kitchen. She loved all things at the Sea Island Club. Not only her golf groups, but exercising, dancing and dining with her friends at her favorite spots. Penta was proud to be part of the Sea Island "family" who stood for the same values of faith and southern hospitality.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Davis Love Jr.; sisters, Lily B. Newton, Lorena B. Vernon and Mabel B. Stanley; and her brothers, Thurman Burgin, Luther Burgin, Marvin Burgin, Austin Burgin and Coy Burgin.

She is survived by her sisters, Lela B. Nixon and Betty B. Sherer; her sons, Mark Love and wife, Lynn, and Davis Love III and wife, Robin; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 20, 2021, at St. Simons Presbyterian Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Simons Presbyterian Church. Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements. www.edomillerandsons.com

Note from Frank McAlister: Penta was my father’s first cousin. Her son, Davis Love III, is a renowned golf professional, and Penta often stayed at our house when Davis was in a tournament in Charlotte.

(Courtesy of Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home)



Michael Larry Rainwater -- 1948-2021

Michael Larry Rainwater photo

CMA Ancestral Line: B03


Birth: 4 July 1948

Death: 22 November 2021, in New Albany, MS

Burial: McAllister Cemetery, Union County, MS

Memorial ID: 234310627


Michael Larry Rainwater "Mud Turtle" left this world for his new Heavenly home on Monday. He was born to William Rainwater and Mary Frances Thornton Rainwater. During his years at Myrtle High School, he achieved many awards including; Most Handsome, Mr. Myrtle High School, Most Popular, Campus Leader, All County in basketball, All Star, All Conference, Most Athletic, and was the very first student from Myrtle to receive an athletic scholarship from Northeast Junior College. He served our country in the US Navy during the Vietnam War, and he served as a Pastor for many years in churches in MS, TN, and AR, and was also a truck driver until his retirement. Mike was so loved by his family and will be greatly missed.

He is preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Greg Rainwater.

United Funeral Service will fly the Navy Flag in honor of his service.

For online condolences please visit www.unitedfuneralservice.com. United is honored to be entrusted with these arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to the American Diabetes Association.

(Courtesy of United Funeral Service)



May Evedene Bennett -- 1929-2021 u

photo of May Evedene Bennett

CMA Ancestral Line: M14; CMA Member Number: 1161


Birth: 08 May 1929

Death: 05 November 2021


May Evedene Bennett passed away in her home on November 5, 2021. Evedene was born in Yuma Country, Colorado, on May 8, 1929 to Marvin Ivy Bennett and Lucy Ehrhart Bennett. Her family moved to Sandy, Oregon, where she graduated high school and attended Lewis and Clark College on a music scholarship, graduating with a music degree in 1950.

In 1949 she married James Grant Russell and moved to Seattle where she gave birth to three daughters: Laurie Anna, Nola June and Rebecca Jane. Two years after the 1956 death of her husband, she married Joseph L Gunter. They moved to Albany in 1959 where son, J Peter Gunter, was born.

While her children were in school, Evedene completed a masters in education, and taught kindergarten, music, and first and second grade in local area schools. She also taught one year in Tonbridge England on a Fulbright Teacher Exchange Scholarship. She especially loved teaching the younger children.

Music was always an important part of her life. She performed, often with her autoharp or dulcimer, folk music from her parents' Appalachian ancestry which were taped for the U of O archives. Some of her busy life involved leading a Great Books discussion group; helping to start the Albany Arts Festival in 1969; starting and chairing the Lewis & Clark Bi-Centennial group; Evedene was interested in researching her ancestry since high school and published books on three of these family lines. She was also an active with Friends of the Library, mushroom/truffle groups; local writing and reading groups, the local genealogical society and was very involved with her gardening.

Evedene was preceded in death by parents, all nine siblings: Frank, Ralph, Elmer, Orval, Henry, Ivy, Ina Gibson, Nola Emerick, and Evelyn Smith; both husbands and two children, Becky Russell Kelly and J Peter Gunter.

She leaves behind two daughters, Laurie Russell Queen Tomsha and Nola Russell; three grandchildren, William Queen, Geni Kelly and Stephen James Russell; four great grandchildren, William, Ashlie and Zavier Queen and Agnus Kelly, and several nieces and nephews. A memorial celebration will be held at Fisher Funeral Home on Tuesday, November 23, at 1:00 p.m., with a reception following.

(Courtesy of Fisher Funeral Home - Albany, Oregon)

Additional quote found on Find-A-Grave attributed to May Evedene Bennett in January, 2014:

"One of the high points of my life was receiving a Fulbright teacher exchange to England for the year 1983/84. What an experience that was! Such a different way of teaching that many of us thought we couldn't persevere, but English teachers who had taught in the USA showed us how to merge styles. The whole experience of living in another country - making new friends of neighbors & fellow-workers, seeing how we can live differently, besides traveling around the country with them on holidays (so much better than looking at natives through bus windows) - is so profound! I came home wishing people in all walks of life could do such an exchange in their own profession. The summer before it, I did research in teaching systems in Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, & Denmark - a real eye opener on different ways of teaching. Friends made that wonderful year & I continue exchanging news at Christmas & we've made visits back and forth. What an adventurous puzzle is life! What a puzzle is life! "



Byron T. McAllister -- 1942-2021

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: J12; CMA Member Number: 1251


Birth: 30 September 1942

Death: 21 October 2021


Byron T. McAllister, Jr. passed away peacefully at home in Queenstown, MD on October 21, 2021 after a long, arduous battle with cancer. Byron was born September 30, 1942, to Byron, Sr. and Ethel McAllister and was raised in Pittsburgh, PA. He earned his undergraduate degree in Zoology at Grove City College in Pennsylvania, and he went on to earn a graduate degree in Entomology from Penn State University in State College, PA. While he was studying in State College, he met and married his first wife, Kathleen, in the campus chapel shortly after his graduation.

Beginning his work-life in the food industry with Pillsbury and General Foods, Byron found his professional calling in the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries, gaining early quality control experience and working through increasing levels of management positions in both manufacturing and quality with Abbott Laboratories' Ross Laboratories and E'iagnostics Divisions, Amersham Corporation, Coulter Electronics Corporation, and lastly served as Vice President of Worldwide Quality Assurance for the Ares-Serono Group of Geneva, Switzerland and Boston, Massachusetts, with operations in over a dozen countries. In 1985 he left the industry and started his own consulting firm, B.T. McAllister Associates, Inc., focusing on using his expertise to energize and lead organizations to move new products through the R&D pipeline to manufacturing for product launch ensuring regulatory compliance and preparing them for pre-approval inspections by the U.S. FDA, EU EMA, and other world health regulatory authorities. His consultancy of 35 years included extensive travel where he and associates operated effectively in more than 50 countries.

Byron truly loved his work and the dynamic and collaborative nature of the work by which he travelled the globe, developed and mentored many a colleague, and generally got things done. His work was a lifelong devotion which brought a shine to his eyes and spring to his step no matter the challenge and often because of the challenge. With his extensive travels as the quintessential "road warrior," he was able to open the world to his family and create a passion for travel and exploration in the family, creating fond memories for a lifetime. We will all miss Byron's "tales from the road" and the ones we made with him.

In addition to work and travel, he was keenly interested in cars and racing throughout his life. Beginning early in his adult life with motorcycles, cars, and when he crewed for the famous female race car driver Donna Mae Mimms, who became the first woman to win a Sports Car Club of America national racing championship in 1963, he had a great affinity for British race cars and drivers. This inspired his first car purchase, an Austin-Healy Sprite, which he and his father worked on together, and he drove in his college years. He even brought his first-born son home from the hospital in a snowstorm in a TR4. His second-born son was named after the famous British racing champion Colin Chappman and, shortly thereafter, he purchased a beloved TR7 which he retained the rest of his life and worked on restoring and modifying in his later years. He was a racing and car enthusiast throughout his life, including multiple family trips to the racetracks of his youth and even to attend the 24 Hours of Le Mans multiple times.

When not working and dreaming of fast motors, his early agricultural studies inspired him to find great pleasure, peace, and restoration at home pursuing gardening, and he would describe himself as "an aggie at heart." This pastoral passion drove him to finally study to become a Master Gardener after moving to Maryland in 2007, and inspired him to plant natively on his property there - the fruit of those efforts bringing him great comfort in his final days. In the evenings, he was known for his love of wine and was always an appreciated guest at any dining event where he was often called upon to order for the table. He also loved fishing from a young age, whether in the Laurel Highlands of PA or when hooking a 76 lb. sailfish off Pompano Beach as a 12-year-old - when his dreams of big fish and big boats was set. In his time off he would often travel later in life for week-long trips with friends to fish for salmon and halibut in Alaska and enjoyed big game fishing, reeling in the big guys to admire and then release for another day. A more recent adventure was learning to fly fish on the Chesapeake near to his home. He was very proud of his Scottish roots, wore the kilt proudly, and was a life member of the Clan McAllister of America.

Lastly, and what truly interested Byron the most his entire adult life was getting to know people with the sincerest intent of creating lasting relationships, of which there were many. In industry and beyond, he lived to mentor those he met along the way, most of which also became life-long friends. At his second wedding at age 58, the festivities were attended by friends from as far away as Australia, revealing the value of the friendships he created. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and were guided by him. Wherever he went throughout his life, no one was too "little" for his kindness and interest or too "big" to be immune from his charms. That will truly be his biggest legacy.

He is survived by his second wife of 21 years, Lisa McAllister, and his sons, Timothy and Colin, and two grandchildren. He also leaves behind a long-time, very close friend, Jane Beckett-Donohue, of Grasonville, MD. He is preceded in death by his first wife of 32 years, Kathleen McAllister, and his parents, Byron, Sr. and Ethel McAllister.

Services and interment will be private. Interment will be in the Cemetery of the First Parish United Church of Norwell, MA where he will be laid to rest beside his first wife, Kathleen. Memorial gifts may be made in his memory to the Delaware Botanic Gardens at Pepper Creek (Donate — delawaregardens.org) where he planned to become active once he relocated permanently to the Delaware beach area.



Barbara Worsham McAlister -- 1940-2021 u

Barbara McAlister photo

CMA Ancestral Line: A05; CMA Member Number: 3


Birth: 16 January 1940

Death: 18 October 2021 (aged 81)


Parrott Funeral Home, Fairburn, GA

Barbara and her husband Joe Edd were charter members of CMA and she served as treasurer for several years. She was a wonderful person and at Gatherings she was often the first, welcoming face one would see. We have lost a shining light and she will be immensely missed.

Mrs. Barbara McAlister, loving wife, mother, and grandmother, and great grandmother, age 81, of Chattahoochee Hills, passed away Monday, October 18, 2021. She was born January 16, 1940 to the late Walter and Louise Worsham. Barbara was a lifelong educator with Fulton County Schools and dedicated her life to the development of her students as well as the teaching professionals who she led. She was actively involved in her church and her sorority, Alpha Delta Kappa. Barbara was preceded in death by her step-sons, Joe Frakes McAlister, Jay Edward McAlister. She is survived by her husband, Joe McAlister; her son, Prentice Robertson (Cindy); her step-daughter, Suzy Bortles (Rob); grandchildren, Brittany Blankenship (Wes), Corey Robertson, Casey Robertson, Blake Bortles (Kasey), Colby Bortles (Samantha), Brodie McAlister; great grandchildren, Kate Blankenship, Remi Bortles, Bowen Bortles, Colton McAlister; sisters, Sharon Miller (John), Deborah Ethridge; brother, Walter Worsham, III (Serena). A funeral service will be held Friday, October 22, 2021 at 1 o’clock at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 819 Hwy 314, Fayetteville, GA 30214 with Pastor Jamie Lambert and Pastor John Sutton officiating. Interment will follow at Holly Hill Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Friday from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers please consider donations to Covenant Presbyterian Church Building Fund, 819 Hwy 314, Fayetteville, GA 30214.



Imogene "Jean" Guyton Callicutt -- 1925-2021

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: B03


Birth: 14 February 1925

Death: 14 October 2021

Burial: Cagles Crossing Cemetery, Coahoma County, MS

Memorial ID: 233202123


Imogene (Jean) Guyton Callicutt, 96, died on October 14, 2021, at Walter B. Crook Nursing Facility in Ruleville, Mississippi.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Thomas L. Callicutt, Sr., parents Thelma Trusty Guyton and Thornton E. Guyton, sister Erin Guyton Mauldin, brother Dr. Joe L. Guyton, son Dr. Joseph Daniel (Dan) Callicutt and daughter-in-law, Connie Constanza Callicutt.

A Valentine's present, born February 14, 1925, in New Albany, Mississippi, she grew up in Blue Mountain, Mississippi, where her parents owned the local drug store. Jean attended Blue Mountain College before marrying Thomas, who was also from Blue Mountain, and moving to a farm near Tutwiler, Mississippi. She was a homemaker and wonderful mother, as well as being known as a fabulous cook and a talented "by ear" pianist. When her children were young, she provided the music and direction for many Kindergarten musical productions and was a substitute Kindergarten teacher. She was also well known for her needlework talents, especially her crocheted baby booties, jackets, and caps.

Jean had an intrinsic love and tender heart for all animals. She kept food in her car for stray animals she might encounter on the side of the road. It was important to her that all animals were fed and comforted.

She is immediately survived by a loving daughter, Cheryl Callicutt Swindoll, and her husband Mike Swindoll of Tutwiler, son Thomas L Callicutt, Jr. and his wife Brenda Ward Callicutt of Covington, Louisiana, and daughter-in-law Ranita Goodwin Callicutt of New Albany, Mississippi. Most importantly, she is survived by seven grandchildren, Charity Swindoll, Chad Swindoll (Edna), Joseph Callicutt (Julie), James Callicutt, L. J. Relle (Devon), Lyndi Dupre' (Arthur), and Laurie Stumpf (Rodney), fourteen precious great grandchildren and numerous nephews, nieces and cousins.

Special appreciation goes to her long-time companion and caregiver Reatha Walker.

A memorial service will be held at Meredith-Nowell Funeral Home, 314 E. 2nd Street, Clarksdale, Mississippi on Saturday, October 23, 2021, with visitation at 1:00 p.m. and a service at 2:00 p.m. A private family burial will follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Cagle's Crossing Cemetery Fund (make checks to Union Chapel Church and specify Cagle's Crossing Cemetery Fund, Union Chapel Church, c/o Lori Burchfield, 2403 Dogwalk Rd., Tutwiler, Mississippi 38963) or CARES Clarksdale Animal Shelter, 1645 Desoto Ave., Clarksdale, Mississippi 38614.

(Courtesy of Meredith-Nowell Funeral Home)



James (Jim) Eugene McAllister -- 1935-2021 u

James (Jim) Eugene McAllister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J70


Birth: 21 June 1935

Death: 11 October 2021


James “Jim” Eugene McAllister was born on June 21, 1935 in Griffithville, Arkansas to Stewart and Alpha (Laferney) McAllister. James also had a stepmom whom they called Cousin Abbie and a stepdad named Thadrick ''Mark'' Lane (all preceded in death). James was a cherished brother to Evelyn Williams, Bedola Fortner (preceded in death), Junie Thurman (preceded in death), Shirley Hopper and Bobby Lane. He was a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews.

On May 31, 1957, James married Virginia Ann Smith and they had three children, and was affectionately called Dad, Pops, or Popadopalis by Carroll (Nancy) McAllister, Nathan (Robin) McAllister, and Trisha (Mark) Giannetti. He was known as Gramps or Papaw to his nine grandchildren: Xavier (Rebecca) Tabor, Zachary Tabor, Trisha (Eric) Irvin, Joshua (Jessica) McAllister, Jessica (Ben) Brown, Jacob McAllister, Sara Giannetti, Ben (Cynthia) Giannetti, and Caitlyn Giannetti. He had 12 great-grandchildren and one on the way. He enjoyed making his grandchildren laugh by singing them silly riddles and putting objects on top of his head!

In the summer of 1949, James attended a Wesleyan Methodist youth camp in Indiana and asked Jesus Christ to save him from his sins. His life was forever changed. When he was not working as a high school teacher, studying engineering, working at Chrysler (where he worked at the plant building boosters for the Apollo Space program) or General Dynamics (writing manuals for main battle tanks used in the US Army), you could always find James at church, no matter where he was living at the time. His love for life was only surpassed by his love for his Lord. He was a deacon at several churches and a treasurer. However, James was not afraid of manual labor and could also be found working under a bus, mowing the lawn, or making repairs on the church building. He loved to sing and play the harmonica in church. ''Haven of Rest'' was one of his favorite hymns to sing. He was not afraid to share his love for Christ with others. James and Virginia raised their three children in church and taught them to always keep Christ first. Because of that, they now have a family legacy of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren that are being raised to love and serve the Lord. Even when James became wheelchair-bound, he never used that as an excuse to stay away from church. His loving wife, Virginia, would push him down the sidewalk to their church in Florida.

James went home to heaven on Monday, October 11, 2021, at his daughter's home in Florida. While we are saddened by the hole left in our hearts, we can be certain that when he opened his eyes in heaven, ''His Lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant;'' Matthew 25:21. We can rest in the hope that we will no doubt see him in heaven one day soon.

Visitation will be 12:00 PM Saturday, October 16, 2021, at Roller-Daniel Funeral Home with service to follow at 1:00 PM. The Interment will follow at Welcome Home Cemetery in Des Arc, Arkansas.

(Courtesy of Roller-Daniel Funeral Home)



Howard C. McAllister -- 1946-2021

Howard C. McAllister photo

Birth: 23 September 1946, Buffalo, New York, USA

Death: 26 September 2021 (aged 75), Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester, NY, USA


IN THE CARE OF Alvah Halloran & Son Funeral Home

Howard C. McAllister, age 75, died on Sunday, September 26, 2021, at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY, after an arduous battle with cancer. Born on September 23, 1946 in Buffalo, NY, he was the son of the late Norman McAllister and Evelyn (Hughes) McAllister.

Howard beamed with pride regarding his US Army Veteran status as he courageously served our country during the Vietnam War. He later retired after twenty-nine years of employment from Kodak, however, the same hard working values that Howard thankfully instilled in his girls got the best of his free-time boredom. Luckily, this monotony led him to a fresh venture at LightFab, where he made further use of his talents and acquired amazing new friends until re-retiring in 2015.

Howard’s primary pastime was hunting, but what he loved most about it was hunting with his wife. He enjoyed golfing, gardening and loved his Fur Babies; Piper, Max and Sammie.

He is survived by his wife, Darlene McAllister with whom he celebrated fifty-one years of marriage on July 29, 2021, two daughters; Julie (Steve) Vasilion and Kristin McAllister, sister; Carol (Kurt) Blakely, brother; Norman (Joan) McAllister, sister: Norma Jean (Jerry) Dolatowski, three grandchildren; MacKenzie, Aiden, Evelyn; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and treasured friends.

In addition to his parents, Norman and Evelyn, Howard was predeceased by a nephew, Richard Blakely, Brother-in-law, Emil Reis and a nephew, Tom Reis.

Relatives and friends are invited to a celebration of Howard’s life that will be held on Sunday, October 10, 2021 at the Alvah Halloran &Son Funeral Home, 2125 Chili Ave. Rochester, NY 14624. Visitation will take place from 11am-12pm, when a service of celebration will begin at 12:00pm. All guests are encouraged to wear something moose or hunting related, or their favorite Buffalo Sabres or Buffalo Bills gear, as Howard would not want everyone wearing black! All guests are required to wear masks.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to Wilmot Cancer Center.



James William McAllister III - 1938-2021

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: F05; CMA Member Number: 1652


Birth: 8 January 1938

Death: 18 September 2021


 James William McAllister III, age 83, of Ellicott City, MD, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2021, surrounded by loved ones, after a difficult battle with metastatic prostate cancer. James was born on January 8, 1938, to James William McAllister, Jr. and Elena R. Heppard of Philadelphia, PA. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister Patricia M. Nelsen. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marjorie McAllister, son Gregory (David, Kyle), daughter Terry (Darrick), grandchildren Blake, Jake, Anthony, Kevin, Britney, Zoe, Vanessa, Michael, Zian, Tristan and great grandchildren J.J., Raelynn, Xylina, and Aidan. The family will hold a graveside ceremony on Saturday, November 27, 2021, beginning at 11am at Crest- lawn Memorial Gardens.

(Courtesy of Harry Witzke Funeral Home)



Joel McCallister -- 1966-2021

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: G01


Birth: 5 December 1966

Death: 7 September 2021

Burial: Mars Hill Church Cemetery, Darrington, MS

Memorial ID: 232254510


Joel McCallister, 54, resident of New Albany, Mississippi passed away Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at Baptist Memorial Hospital in New Albany.  A Private Family Graveside Service is planned with burial in the Mars Hill Cemetery near Crosby, MS. Arrangements will be provided by New Albany Funeral & Cremation Care.

Joel was born December 5, 1966 in Centerville, MS, the son of the late Johnie Fielden and Nancy Calvin McCallister, Jr. He received his education in the Natchez Mississippi Public School System and moved to the North Mississippi area 34 years ago.

Joel was employed as a long distance truck driver where he enjoyed traveling throughout the United States. He served on the Union County Volunteer Fire Department and was a former Security Guard. His passion was wrestling and loved living in a rural community.

Survivors include a son, Tyler Guillot of Thibodaux, LA, his much loved sister, Michelle Ayzinne of Thibodaux, LA, a granddaughter, McKayla Guillot, two nieces and two nephews.

He was also preceded in death by a brother, Jarrod McCallister, Sr. and a nephew.

(Courtesy of New Albany Funeral &Cremation Care)



George T. White -- 1942-2021

George T White

CMA Ancestral Line: A09-3-7


Birth: 1 January 1942

Death: 7 September 2021


George Tappan White, of Morrow, passed away on September 7th, 2021. There will be no memorial service at this time due to the increase in Covid positive cases in Metro Atlanta.

He is survived by his daughter and son- in-law, Amy and Ray René of Atlanta, Ga; son, Alex P. White of Los Angeles, CA; sister, Laura Wiley of Jonesboro, GA; sister, Eleanor Ragsdale of Lavonia, GA; granddaughter, Elza René; numerous nieces and nephews, and numerous great nieces and great nephews.

George T. White was a beloved member of his community and was an active member of the Morrow Masonic lodge, serving as Worshipful Master in 1998 and Mason of the year in 2009. George had a lifelong passion for amateur radio and was licensed by the Federal Bureau of Communications in 1994. George attended Young Harris College and Southern Technical Institute receiving his degree in Civil Engineering with a focus on Land Surveying and was active in the profession for over 35 years.

[Thomas L. Scroggs Funeral Directors]



Richard A. "Rick" Blakely -- 1968-2021

Richard Blakely Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: H02


Birth: 1968

Death: 12 July 2021


Richard Blakely passed away Monday, July 12, 2021 in Greece, NY after a long illness.

He is survived by his loving parents, Kurt & Carol (McAllister) Blakely; sister Sandra (Patrick) Schneider; nieces Ally & Carly Schneider; uncles Howard (Darlene) McAllister, Norman (Joan) McAllister; aunt Norma Jean (Jerome) Dolatowski.

Rick enjoyed the outdoors. He loved fishing, camping, and his dog Sammy and his cat Bella. Rick will be sadly missed by all that knew him.

Friends may call 10-11 am Thursday, July 29, 2021 at New Comer Cremations and Funerals, 2636 Ridgeway Ave. (west of Long Pond Rd.). Funeral services will begin at 11 am following visitation.

(Courtesy of New Comer Cremations and Funerals)



Carol Sue (Barrett) Dellos -- 1942-2021

Carol Sue (Barrett) Dellos Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: P01; CMA Member Number: 991


Birth: 5 March 1942

Death: 31 May 2021


Carol Sue Dellos, also known as Sue Dellos, age 79, our much-loved wife, mother, and grandmother, after battling one of many diseases she faced in her life, passed away at her Elk Ridge, Utah, home on 31 May 2021. She was born as Carol Sue Barrett in San Diego, California, on 5 March 1942, to Thomas Ellwood Barrett and Merle Allred Barrett, the middle child of their three children.

She grew up, and attended schools, in Chula Vista, California, where she was on the synchronized swimming team at the public swimming pool and loved swimming in general. She graduated, in 1960, from Chula Vista High School, then she attended Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. Sue continued her college education at San Diego State University where, in 1965, she earned her bachelor’s degree in home economics.

On 16 July 1965, Sue married her eternal companion, David John Dellos, in the Los Angeles LDS Temple, and she became the wife of a proud United States Marine. They had six children: David John II, Jennifer, Matt, Rebekah, Dwight, and Rachel.

Sue taught home economics and sewing in El Centro, California. She was a busy and talented sewing and craft teacher. She loved teaching her grandkids her passion of sewing, by making many costumes or other projects alongside them. Over the years, she was extremely artistic in every way. One of the ways she loved to express herself artistically was with oil painting. She painted everything and anything she could and was proud of every single piece she made. She also enjoyed crafting and creating for family members and friends’ weddings … things like cakes, flowers, and dresses. Over the many years, she had sewn and put together many quilts she loved giving away. She loved genealogy, both teaching and completing much hands-on work; she spent her lifetime researching, compiling and cataloging genealogy records. She was a member of the Daughters of Utah Pioneers; and in Spanish Fork, Utah, was actively involved with the Senior Citizens group.

Sue is an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she served in the Relief Society; and, where she also taught genealogy classes. She served a service mission calling in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, doing genealogy at the BYU Family History Library, from 1 April 2010 till 1 April 2012. She is survived by her husband, David John Dellos, of Elk Ridge, Utah; and five of her six children and their progeny (Sue’s beloved 27 grandchildren as well as four great-grandchildren); her son, David Dellos II, of Twin Falls, Idaho (his children: Makayla (Kaleb) Coggins and Hailee; and his grandchildren, Kasen and Kynlee); her daughter, Jennifer (Michael) Pollard, of Elk Ridge, Utah (their children: Kylee, Katelyn, Drew, Landon, and Trevor); her son, Matt (Cori) Dellos, of Salem, Utah (their children: Camryn, Baleigh, Lauren, Chase, Hailee, Trevor (Sarah), and Jason); her grandson, Christopher Thiemann (Holli) (their children: Willey and Rogan); her daughter, Rachel (John) Ellertson, of Pleasant Grove, Utah (their children: Ireland, Sawyer, and Zander); and her son, Dwight (Ketra) Dellos, of Caldwell, Idaho (their children: Taven, Rockford, Rebekah-Ann, Phoenix, Atreyu, Colton, Connor, Cooper, and Zayden). Sue is also survived by her brother, Ralph (Rhonda) Barrett; and her sister, Arlene Barrett McCoin; as well as many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents; and her daughter, Rebekah Dellos.

A viewing for family and friends of Sue will be Monday, 7 June 2021, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the Elk Ridge 11th Ward LDS Church, 185 East Ridgeview Drive, Elk Ridge, Utah 84651. Funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the same location. Interment will be at Salem City Cemetery.

There will be a livestream of the service available Monday, 7 June 2021 at 11 a.m.

[Published online at https://walkermemorials.com/obituary/sue-dellos/ ]



Glenn Eugene McAlister -- 1957-2021 u

glenn eugene mcalister photo

CMA Ancestral Line: A09


Birth: 10 September 1957

Death: 27 March 2021


Glenn Eugene McAlister, 63, of Bella Vista, passed away March 27, 2021, in the comforts of his home. He was born on September 10, 1957, in Mulberry to Glenn Eugene and Zelia Lola (Ward) McAlister.

Glenn had lived in Northwest Arkansas for two years after moving from Sherwood. He enjoyed fishing, going to the beach and cooking bar-b-q for his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Zelia McAlister, and sister, Jean Beaty.

Survivors include his wife, Kathy McAlister of Bella Vista; three daughters, Rachael Powers, Sarah (Michael) Grudnowski, and Emily McAlister of Centerton; granddaughter, Spencer Powers; sisters, Jo McAlister, and Brenda (Bobby) Townsend. Glenn was looking forward to the birth of his second granddaughter, Madison Grudnowski. Arrangements: Epting Funeral Home.



Ruble, Dr. Randall Tucker -- 1932-2021

Dr. Randall Tucker Ruble photo

Birth: 15 April 1932

Death: 22 February 2021, in Due West, SC


Randall Tucker Ruble, longtime minister and former president of Erskine College, died February 22, 2021 surrounded by family.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, September 12, 2021 at 3:00PM in the Due West ARP Church. The family will greet friends after the service on the lawn at Erskine College Moffatt Dining Hall. The services for Dr. Randall Tucker Ruble will be live-streamed and may be viewed at www.facebook.com/duewest.arp

Dr. Ruble was born on April 15, 1932, the fourth of five children of William C. and Carrie Conner Ruble. He grew up in Lexington, VA, and graduated high school near Philadelphia.

Upon graduation from high school, Dr. Ruble enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving in the Korean Conflict. He moved to South Carolina to attend Erskine College on the GI Bill, and graduated with honors in three years. Upon graduation, he then earned Master’s degrees from Erskine and Princeton Theological seminaries, and in 1964, the Doctor of Philosophy degree from The University of Edinburgh, Scotland.

He returned in 1965 to begin a long and productive career as an educator at Erskine College and Seminary. He did post-doctoral studies at Harvard University and the ATS Institute for Theological Management at West Point.

Dr. Ruble taught at Erskine for 45 years, first as a professor of Old Testament and Hebrew, later as Dean of the Seminary, and finally as president from 2006-2010. He was named President Emeritus upon retirement. Throughout his tenure, he focused on students, faculty, staff, and alumni. He developed a reputation for encouraging all but especially those who, like him, were first-generation college attendees from modest upbringing. While in college, Dr. Ruble was welcomed into professors’ homes because he had nowhere to go on holidays. He, in turn, regularly welcomed students in the Ruble home for holiday meals.

Dr. Ruble served in many ways. As a minister, he was ordained in 1961, and pastored Abbeville and Mount Carmel ARP churches from 1967 to 2010, with a brief three-year break to serve as chaplain at Erskine College. He preached across the ARP denomination during his career and served as moderator of the ARP Synod, chair of the Presbyterian Council on Chaplains and Military Personnel, and president of the Association of Seminary Presidents of the National Association of Presbyterian and Reformed Churches. He served as chair of many accreditation committees for the Southern Association of Colleges and Universities and the Association of Theological Schools. As a major contribution to the church, he edited the Bicentennial History of the ARP Church.

Dr. Ruble chaired numerous civic groups including the Abbeville Lions Club, the Abbeville Heart Association, the Abbeville Rotary Club, the Christian Prison Ministries Board and Abbeville First Steps. He also helped found the Due West Rescue Squad and served on Due West Town Council.

Above all, Dr. Ruble loved family and friends. He organized family reunions for the Ruble family in Lexington, VA, and annual beach trips to Isle of Palms. He took his family camping across the U.S. and Canada, and traveled extensively with family in retirement.

He was an accomplished runner and loved all sports, but especially Erskine Athletics. He regularly welcomed Erskine sports teams to his home and those teams, in turn, adopted him as their favorite fan.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by two brothers, Bill and Ben, and a sister, Marjorie.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Martha Grant (Molly), two sons, John (Holly) of Orlando, FL, Jeffrey (Cathy) of Columbia, a daughter, Ellen (Mike) of Tucson, AZ, and a brother, Richard (Anne), of Siloam Springs, AR. Grandchildren are Grant and Carter Ruble, Meghan Hall and her husband Trevor Hall, Tucker Ruble, and Flannery and Liam Lindeman. Great-grandchildren are Owen and twins Mary Oliver and George Hall.

(Courtesy of Harris Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Abbeville)



Eloise Luna McAlister -- 1934-2020

Eloise Luna McAlister photo

CMA Ancestral Line: A33


Birth: 15 October 1934

Death: 26 December 2020

Burial: Black Jack Cemetery, Ashland, MS

Memorial ID: 220273276


Eloise Luna McAlister, 86, resident of Cordova and former resident of the Blackjack Community in Benton County, passed away Saturday, December 26, 2020 at St. Francis Hospital in Bartlett.

A Graveside Service remembering the life of Ms. McAlister will be at 11 AM Friday, January 1 in Blackjack Cemetery with Bro. Billy Oyler officiating. Arrangements will be provided by The Ripley Funeral Home.

Ms. McAlister was born October 15, 1934 in Benton County, the daughter of the late James Audrey and Anna Rogers Luna. She received her education in the Falkner Public School System and was a devoted homemaker throughout her life.

A member of Bartlett Methodist Church, Ms. McAlister was devoted to the family she adored. Affectionately known as "Grandmother" to her grandchildren and "Mamoos" to her great grandchildren, she knew that family is where life begins and love never ends. The wonderful memories she gave her family will be cherished always and she will live on forever in their hearts.

Survivors include: four sons [Donnie Naper (Jimmie) of Boise, Idaho; Butch McAlister of Bartlett, TN; Tommy McAlister (Kellie) of Memphis; and Scott McAlister of Cordova, TN], four grandchildren [Dawn Naper, Jason McAlister (Aimee), Randy Naper, and Mac McAlister], and five great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two brothers (Jimmy Luna and Howard Luna) and a daughter-in-law (Ann McAlister).

Graveside Service Friday, January 1, 2021 at 11:00 AM, Blackjack Cemetery, Blackjack Road, Ashland, MS 38603

(Courtesy of Ripley Funeral Home)



Cecil Ray McAlister -- 1940-2020 u

cecil ray mcalister photo

CMA Ancestral Line: CR01


Birth: 24 April 1940

Death: 13 December 2020


PUBLISHED BY ECHOVITA: It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Cecil Ray McAlister in Greenville, South Carolina, born in Westminster, South Carolina, who passed away on December 13, 2020, at the age of 80, leaving to mourn family and friends. Family and friends can send flowers and/or light a candle as a loving gesture for their loved one. Leave a sympathy message to the family in the guestbook on this memorial page of Cecil Ray McAlister to show support.

He was predeceased by: his parents, Macky Roy and Mabel Fitzgerald McAlister; and his siblings, Macky Roy McAlister, Jr. and Mary Edith Clark. He is survived by: his daughters, Angee Pearson of Walhalla and Amanda Medlin (Greg) of Anderson; his siblings, Julia Mae Saylors of Westminster and James William McAlister of Westminster; and his grandchildren, Garrett Pearson, Easton Medlin and Ally Medlin.

https://www.davenportfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Cecil-Mcalister/#!/Obituary



Rick Arlin Harry -- 1952-2020

Rick Arlin Harry Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: P01


Birth: 14 June 1952

Death: 6 November 2020


Rick Arlin Harry, 68, passed away on Friday, November 6, 2020. He was born on June 14, 1952 in Provo, Utah, the son of Albert Eugene and Elaine McAllister Harry.

He married Jeri Lyn Knudson on November 30, 1974 in the Logan Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Rick retired from Boeing as a Quality Engineer. Rick is survived by his wife, Jeri; children, Shannon (Jason) Wood, Amber (Allen) Miller, Gavin (Laurel) Harry, Kira (Anthony) Loubet, and Trenton Harry; 15 grandchildren, Fern, Tony, Kirsten, Hunter, Tanner, Brayden, Sophia, Logan, Colin, Ellie, James, Oliver, Melissa, Thea, and Lindsey; and siblings, Kathy (Mark) Bardwell, Ron (Tena) Harry, and Don ( Pauline) Harry. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Graveside services will be held on Monday, November 9, 2020 at 2 p.m. at Lindquist’s Memorial Gardens of the Wasatch, 1718 Combe Rd., Ogden, Utah.


Here's a story titled "Tinkerer" about Rick written by his daughter, Shannon Wood:


"My dad, Rick Harry loved to work with his hands. He loved having the skills to fix things. Between him and my mom they were able to fix most anything. I can’t even remember having a repair man at the house when I was younger. In October of 1985 Rick got into a very bad accident and broke both of his legs. I remember him working on a shed in the backyard while leaning on crutches for support. I was only 10 so I can’t remember if he was doing the bulk of the work or just supervising. When I was a bit older he was diagnosed with Muliple Sclerosis. That was a hard blow for a man who did everything himself. But he was determined not to let it keep him down. He still continued to work on cars and taught his kids to be hard workers as well. I remember in my early teens I decided I wanted to have tools. I always loved needle nose pliers so my dad proudly gave me my first pair of green pliers. He and I were very happy about that. In high school I decided to take an auto shop class. At that time my dad’s MS was making it hard for him to get up and down from the ground so I remember him sitting by me teaching me to change the U-joint on my old van. I was so grateful for his willingness to teach me how to change a tire, change my oil, put on brake pads, and even change the U-joint. He wasn’t always easy to understand because his instructions always went over my head but I knew he loved me when he wanted to teach me how to work on cars. I even had the privilege of teaching my son to change a tire 3 years ago. I too, due to health reasons, did it on the sidelines. I was grateful he too let me teach him."



Donna Jean (McAlister) Boyer -- 1934-2020

Donna Boyer photo

CMA Ancestral Line: WC01; CMA Member Number: 1339


Birth: 17 November 1934

Death: 4 November 2020 (age 85)


(Obituary published in Ponca City Now - November 6, 2020 5:24 pm)

VaDonna Jean (McAlister) Boyer was born on November 17, 1934 to John Henry McAlister and Dorothy Ellen (Hindes) McAlister in Ripley, OK. God called her to her heavenly home on November 4, 2020 from her rural home near Marland, OK at the age of 85.

Donna grew up on a farm in the Bressie area and went to Tearney School until 8th grade. She then went to Marland School graduating in 1952. Upon graduation, she was employed at Conoco until she met Gerald (Jerry) Boyer. They began their 52 year marriage on January 16, 1954. They had six children whom she loved with all her heart; Cheryl, Cathy, Gerald, Robert, Kimala and Steven. She instilled her kindness, generosity, honesty, work ethic and loving nature in each of them. She went back to work at Conoco, retiring in 1996 with 25 years of service.

Donna was a busy farm wife. She cooked and delivered many meals to the field as well as midnight suppers at the house. She planted and tended a huge garden every year, canning and freezing the harvest. Donna was also an avid quilter who lovingly created beautiful quilts for her children, 11 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. She also delighted in teaching her granddaughters homemaking skills and feeding her grandsons.

She was a great cook and crafter. She enjoyed being a member of Bliss Homemakers and was famous for her chicken salad served in the Noble County Fair kitchen. She ground her own wheat to make her award winning wheat bread. She won many ribbons for her crafts.

Left behind to cherish her memory are Cheryl (Butch) Bennett, Cathy Coffman, Gerald (Mary Ann) Boyer Jr., Robert (Jeannette) Boyer, Kimala Boyer, Steven (Mary) Boyer.

Grandkids: Jonny (Kirstie) Coffman, Cory (Shannon) Randol, Jered (Irenea) Bennett, Heather (Chris) Raffelson, Candala Shenold, David (Courtney) Boyer, Amber Boyer, Rudy Boyer, Tyler (Kryston) Boyer, Maegan Boyer, Allison Boyer.

Great-grand kids: Tyler, Elizabeth, Cash Coffman; Kattie, Maelee, Ethan Bennett; Nathan Randol, Hannah Raffelson, Spec Shenold; Lillian, Paisley, Oakley Boyer; Isabelle, Davin Reyes; Hadley, Raeghan Boyer.

Her sister, Patsy (Jimmy) Smithheisler and sister-in-law Anita McAlister. Several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Donna was preceded in death by her husband Jerry Boyer, her parents, John and Dorothy McAlister, brother John McAlister Jr., sister and brother-in-law Jackie and Leonard Littou, great-granddaughter Presley Ryan Shenold.

Graveside services will be held 10:00 a.m. Monday, November 9, 2020 in the Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery with Pastor Chris Short officiating. Visitation will be Sunday, November 8, 2020 at Grace Memorial Chapel from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Online guest registry is available at www.gracememorialchapel.net.



Jeanette McAlister Carney -- 1942-2020

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: N06


Birth: 2 April 1942

Death: 25 September 2020


[From death certificate, No obituary available.]
Born: Weatherford, OK
Died: at home – Pensacola, FL
Father: Jeff McAlister
Mother: Nancy Cantero
Widow
Survived by: Elizabeth Broadus, daughter
Burial: Fields of Faith Cremation and Tribute Center, Milton, Florida



Walter H. McAllister – 1937-2020

Walter H. McAllister photo

Birth: 25 June 1937

Death: 22 August 2020


[Obituary in the Bemidji Pioneer]

Lake George resident Walter H. McAllister, 83, passed away Saturday, August 22, 2020 at Sanford Bemidji Medical Center. His final days were spent surrounded by the family he loved so much.

Walt was born on June 25, 1937 in Brainerd, MN, the son of Joseph and Ruth McAllister, who named him after his two uncles Walter Marlow and Harold McAllister.

Raised in Backus, they lived in a log cabin in Hendrickson Township, eventually moving into a house on Sheridan Lake, where he went to school and graduated from Laporte Community School.

Walt worked at Erickson Lumber in Hibbing, MN where he started a family and was blessed with three children. He moved his family to Inver Grove Heights while working for Texaco and Midwest Motor Express.

Later, he worked for Koch Refinery and it was during this time he met Jeanette Garrett of Lake George. Walt retired from Koch, and on April 15th, 2000 he and Jeanette married and started their life together. They designed and built their home on their beloved Sheridan Lake. During their Golden Years, they gardened, tinkered, joined a bowling league and enjoyed frequent visits with friends and neighbors.

Walt was a giver, always eager to lend a helping hand. His generous nature was a gift to family and friends alike. Walt volunteered regularly at Trinity Lutheran Church and The Senior Citizen’s Center in Lake George.

Walt is survived by his wife, Jeanette, of Bemidji, children Jody McAllister of Rochester, MN, Craig McAllister of Altamont, TN and Stacy McAllister of Eagan, MN as well as Jeanette’s children Evelyn Halvorson of Bemidji, MN and Wayne Garrett of Fargo, North Dakota, 7 Grandchildren, 4 Great Grandchildren, his sister Marian “Mickey” (Robert) Mechelke, 3 brothers - Pete (Virginia) of Lake George, MN, Twins Jerry (Peggy) Palm of Baxter, MN, and Gary (Eileen) Palm of New Brighton, MN, sister in law, Corrine McAllister, several cousins, nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Joe and Ruth McAllister, sister Jean Thomas, brother Daniel McAllister, 2 infant brothers and brother-in-law, Lee Thomas.

There will be a Celebration of Life at Cease Funeral Home, 2807 Irvine Ave. NW in Bemidji on Friday September 18th from 5-8 PM and a private family service at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lake George on Saturday September 19th.

The family prefers memorials be made to The Lake George Senior Citizens Center, Trinity Lutheran Church of Lake George, Autumn Hills Assisted Living of Bemidji or the Family Suite at The Sanford Health Foundation of Northern MN (Bemidji).



Jeffrey Scott McAllister -- 1957-2020

Jeff McAllister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: P01


Birth: 26 October 1957

Death: 2 June 2020


On June 2, 2020, our beloved father, husband and son, Jeffrey Scott McAllister, returned to his heavenly home after sustaining injuries in a motorcycle accident. He was 62 years old.

Jeff was born October 26, 1957 in Tooele, Utah to Dale and Faye McAllister, the fourth of their five children. He grew up in Orem, Utah and graduated from Orem High School in 1975. Jeff was a loving son, an adventurous brother, and an inquisitive learner. He was famous for asking “Why?” to everything, which later manifested in his successful career as a mechanical engineer.

Jeff was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In 1977, he served a two-year mission in Kobe, Japan where he grew to love the people there and created lifelong friendships. Throughout his life, he served in many capacities in the church, but his favorite was working with youth. He loved young people and forged special, lasting connections with them.

In 1980, while attending BYU, Jeff met the love of his life, Caroline Lawson, who he liked to call “Doll”. They married on December 30th of that year in the LDS Temple in Oakland, California. Together they enjoyed 39 years of marriage and brought 5 beautiful children into the world. His children were the light of his life and he loved supporting each of them in their hobbies and talents.

His favorite pastime was camping with family. He looked forward to family time in the mountains in his yellow “fixer upper” camping trailer. He also had a passion for music and spent much of his time performing in choirs and encouraging his children to develop their own artistic talents.

Jeff graduated from BYU in 1985 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and took a job at Hewlett Packard in Boise, Idaho. There he raised his family and was a devoted employee for 33 years, receiving more than three dozen patents for ingenuity, as well as many other accolades. He loved his work, but his favorite HP memories were having his kids and grandkids come visit him for lunches, and playing intense games of volleyball with work friends.

One of Jeff’s most quintessential qualities was his kindness. He truly loved everyone and consistently demonstrated it through his actions. He had a sincere interest in others and would reach out to engage family and friends in meaningful conversation whenever possible.

Jeff accomplished so much in his 62 short years. His demonstration of steadfast faith, willing service, and constant kindness is imprinted on his children, grandchildren, and friends. He made sure we knew the gospel of Jesus Christ was one of his most treasured possessions. We also knew his other greatest treasure was our mother. He was devoted to her, showing his love through time and attention, continually reminding his kids to do the same.

Dad we will miss you dearly, think of you always, and love you forever.

Jeff is survived by his wife Caroline Lawson McAllister, his children Amber (Rick) Swensen, Tyler (Kindra) McAllister, Heather (Ethen) Roberts, Molly (Trey) Skousen, Dallin (Madeleine) McAllister, 13 grandchildren, his parents Dale and Faye McAllister, and his siblings Mike (Debby) McAllister, Craig (Anna Rae) McAllister, and Cindy (Joel) Tuaileva. He is preceded in death by his younger brother Kevin Leo McAllister.

A public viewing will be held Friday, June 12th from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Utah Valley Mortuary, 1966 West 700 North, Lindon, Utah. A family funeral service will follow the next morning, Saturday, June 13th at 10:00 a.m. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the funeral will also be live streamed for friends and extended family who wish to attend at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1920 North 500 West, Lehi, Utah for the first 99 people that arrive. ALL are invited to the graveside service immediately following the funeral at American Fork City Cemetery. We ask that social distancing rules are followed and wearing of masks is suggested. Those who are not able to attend may watch the service live on Jeff’s Facebook page at the following link https://www.facebook.com/jeff.mcallister.12.



Warren "Scotty" Dykes -- 1947-2020 u

Warren Scotty Dykes photo

CMA Ancestral Line: C01; CMA Member Number: 1932


Birth: 9 February 1947


Death: 14 May 2020


Warren "Scottie" Dykes of Baltimore Co., MD, passed away May 14, 2020. Class member of '65 Dulaney HS, Veteran, Sergeant in the US Air Force. SAR/McAlister, Home in Freeland, MD, owned and operated Dykes Enterprises LLC. "Scottie" was very caring &loved by many close friends throughout his life, along with his admiration for Classic vehicles and John Wayne movies. Survived by sister L. Jeanne Bowman, brother Robert Dykes and wife Melinda Dykes. Niece's Donna Kairewich, Patricia Twardowski and Tanya Hawes, nephews James Blevins, Tom Bowman, Jeremy and Timothy Dykes, Joey Morse and several great nieces and nephews. Special friend "Mr. Slick", protégé Bryce Ryan and dear friends Rhonda, Rich and Anna Ryan.

Memorial services will be announced at a later date. Memorial donations suggested: Please donate dog food to your local Humane Society, Scottie loved and missed his puppy dog "Toby".

Hartenstein Funeral & Cremation Care, Inc., New Freedom is assisting the family.

(Courtesy of the Baltimore Sun, May 17, 2020)



Shirley McAllister Westenfield -- 1931-2020

Shirley McAllister Westenfield photo

CMA Ancestral Line: H02


Birth: 5 December 1931

Death: 16 April 2020


WESTENFIELD – Shirley (nee McAllister) Westenfield of Cheektowaga, NY, April 16, 2020. Loving mother of Anthony (Christine) Westenfield, Lynne Robinson, and the late Louise Westenfield; dearest grandmother of Erin, Adam, Megan, Chad, Tyler, Lauren, Sarah, Kevin, Alexa, and Hannah; great-grandmother of 12. Funeral Services were held privately with the family. Share condolences at www.wendelandloecherinc.com.

(Courtesy of Wendel & Loecher Funeral Home)



Daniel McAllister – 1926-2019

daniel joseph mcallister photo

Birth: 8 June 1926

Death: 29 December 2019


[Obituary in The Bemidji Pioneer]


Daniel Joseph McAllister, 93, of Bemidji, MN died Sunday, December 29, 2019 at Havenwood Care Center in Bemidji.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday, January 11, 2020 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Bemidji with Rev. Genelle Netland officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at the Evergreen Cemetery in Backus, MN under the direction of the Cease Family Funeral Home in Bemidji.

Dan was born June 8, 1926 in Pine River, MN the son of Joseph and Katie (Bogart) McAllister. He was raised in Backus and Lake George, attending school in Laporte and Backus, graduating from Backus High School in 1945. He married Corrine Louise Noble on Dec. 28, 1945 in Backus, MN. They moved to Bemidji in 1948, they had 4 children Joe, Donna, Alan, and Debra. He was a railroad conductor and brakeman for the Northern Pacific and later Burlington Northern Railroad from May 1945 to August 1985 except for 2 years when he served our country during WW II in the US Army Air Corps in Germany from 1944 to 1947. Dan was baptized on June 17, 1964 at Calvary Lutheran Church and was a member for 62 years and served in various ways. He was a jack of all trades as he could repair all kinds of appliances and vehicles and loved to help anyone that needed it. He loved to hunt, fish, and was an avid water skier. He was a member of the American Legion, Bemidji Water Ski Club, and the Retired Railroad Workers Group.

He is survived by his wife Corrine of Bemidji, Children Joe McAllister of Bemidji,  Donna McAllister of Bemidji,  Alan (Cindy) McAllister of Laporte,  Debra (Shayne) Bock of Bemidji, MN,  8 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren,  a sister Marian “Mickey” (Robert) Mechelke of Akeley, MN,  4 brothers Pete (Virginia) McAllister of Lake George, MN,  Walt (Jeanette) McAllister of Lake George, MN,  Twins Jerry and Gary Palm of Brainerd and Minneapolis,  and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, stepmother Ruth McAllister, sister Jean Thomas, 2 infant brothers Jerry & Baby McAllister and brother-in-law Lee Thomas.  Condolences may be left at https://www.ceasefuneralhome.com.



Gerald R. McCollister -- 1930-2019

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: JF02; CMA Member Number: 1791


Birth: 28 December 1930

Death: 30 September 2019


Gerald Robert McCollister, 88, of Ironton, Ohio passed away peacefully, Monday, September 30, 2019 at his residence. Mr. McCollister was born December 28, 1930 in Ironton, Ohio, a son to the late Harley E. and Kathryn (Heib) McCollister. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Ramona Ann (Lloyd) McCollister, whom he married April 1, 1955.

Mr. McCollister was a 1948 Ironton High School graduate and a United States Navy Veteran. He was a retired electrician from Ironton Iron. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Ironton. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by: two sisters (Jean Arthur and Mildred Heslop), and a brother (Donald McCollister). In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons [Robert "Bob" (Faye) McCollister of Ironton, OH and Brian (Jenny) McCollister of Fishers, IN], three daughters [Monica (Robert) Chapman of Cincinnati, OH, Melanie (Harry) Li of Little Rock, AR, and Anna McCollister Slipp of Washington, DC], brother Joseph McCollister of Ironton, OH, and twin sister Geraldine Saunders of Ironton, OH.

Memorial service will be 1pm, Monday, October 7th at Tracy Brammer-Monroe Funeral Home, 518 South Sixth Street, Ironton, Ohio with Pastor Eric Barnes officiating. Burial will follow in Woodland Cemetery. Military graveside rites will be provided by V.F.W. Post #8850. Visitation will be 11:30am until time of the service at the funeral home.

(Courtesy Tracy Brammer-Monroe Funeral Home)



Dovie Ann McAllister Moon Setser -- 1948-2019

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: JG02


Birth: 11 January 1948

Death: 8 July 2019


Dovie Ann McAllister Moon Setser, age 71, of Bluffton, SC and formerly of Birmingham, AL, died Monday, July 8, 2019 at Coastal Carolina Medical Center.

Mrs. Setser was born on January 11, 1948 in Albertville, AL, the daughter of the late Walter G. and Pearl Bond McAllister. She was a graduate of Douglas High School. She continued her formal education at the University of Kentucky and ultimately completed her graduate studies at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, earning an MBA degree in accounting. She worked for many years with Induron Coatings, Inc. where she retired as Controller and Vice President. Ann enjoyed making jewelry and created a business to share her artisan talents with the community. While living in Bluffton, she attended St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church.

Mrs. Setser was preceded in death by her brother, Alton Wayne McAllister. She is survived by her husband of 12 years, William Setser; brother, Jimmie McAllister (Deborah); sister-in-law, Nelda Jean McAllister; stepsons, Randolph Setser (Julie) and Bradly Setser (Kelli); step grandchildren, Emily, Erin, Brian, Benjamin, and Elliot; special friend, Pat Moon; and many nieces and nephews.

Sauls Funeral Home of Bluffton is assisting the family with a private funeral service.

(Courtesy of Sauls Funeral Home)



Don E. McAlister - 1926-2019

Don E. McAlister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J27


Birth: 20 September 1926

Death: 5 May 2019


Don E. McAlister, age 92, of Alliance, went to his heavenly home on May 5, 2019, following a long illness.

He was born September 20, 1926, in Marlboro Township to Carl E. and Gladys (Miller) McAlister.

Don was raised on the family farm in Marlboro Township where he learned about hard work and creative problem solving.

Don was drafted at the end of World War II into the 104th Weather Group in the United States Air Force and was stationed at Macon, Georgia.

A 1944 graduate of Marlboro High School, Don graduated from Mount Union College and the University of Akron Law School.

He was a life resident of Marlboro Township, owner and president of Clem Lumber, and also an attorney. He served more than 30 years on both the Alliance Community Hospital Board and the Marlington Board of Education; taking great personal pride in working on committees that maintained buildings and grounds and used his career knowledge of building materials to benefit the community. He always had time for family and friends and contributed his time, talents and resources to every organization he supported.

Don and Rose enjoyed many years of traveling, visiting multiple states, including his favorite beach in Fort Myers, Florida, and countries, Japan, Hong Kong, Switzerland, Austria, Scotland, and the Caribbean Islands. He enjoyed reading, especially about his family history, politics, and watching the Cleveland Indians and Ohio State football. He loved attending school activities of his children and grandchildren.

He was a member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church and a former member of Wednesday Breakfast Club, the Stark County Republican Party, treasurer for the New Baltimore Cemetery Association, treasurer/trustee of the New Baltimore Athletic Club, Marlington Alumni Association, UCT, Stark County Bar Association, Ohio Bar Association, Clan McAlister of America and the Ulster Historical Foundation.

Survivors include his daughter, Cynthia McAlister; sons, James (Melisha) McAlister and David (Janet) McAlister; grandchildren, Michael (Shelly) McAlister, Douglas (Aubrey) McAlister, Ann (David) Bossert, and Jessica (Eric) Francis; four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Rose F. McAlister, whom he married April 23, 1949, and who died April 27, 2016; brothers Carl and Wayne McAlister and sisters, Wilma Hufford and Margaret Shoemaker.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 14, 2019, at Aldersgate United Methodist Church with Rev. Nancy Manner officiating.

Friends may call Monday from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at Cassaday-Turkle-Christian Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service at the church.

Interment will be at Marlboro Cemetery.

(Courtesy of Cassaday-Turkle-Christian Funeral Home, 75 S. Union Ave. Alliance OH 44601.)



Peggy Marie Premeaux -- 1949-2019

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: B07


Birth: 15 March 1949

Death: 30 March 2019


Peggy Marie Premeaux, age 70, of Lansing, Michigan passed away on Saturday, March 30, 2019. Peggy was born on March 15, 1949 in Lansing, Michigan to Wilson and Joyce (Straugh) Premeaux.

Peggy was preceded in death by her father Wilson Premeaux. Surviving are her mother Joyce Preameaux, her brothers Barry (Lec) Preamaux, Richard Premeaux, sister Nancy (Ken) Despres, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and friends.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place and a gathering to celebrate her life will be held in the summer of 2019.

Memorial contributions in memory of Peggy Marie Premeaux may be made to The Capital Area Humane Society.

(Courtesy of Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes)



Rebecca Turton Brodersen 1940-2019

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: A09-3-7; CMA Member Number: 138


Birth: 1 September 1940

Death: 12 March 2019


Rebecca “Becky” Turton Brodersen passed away Tuesday, March 12, 2019. She was born September 1, 1940 in Brunswick, Georgia to Charles Herbert and Rebecca Ray Turton.

Becky was a 16-year resident of Freeport, Florida and previously lived in Gainesville, Florida and Nashville, Tennessee. She graduated from Glynn Academy High School in Brunswick and went on to receive a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia in 1962. She married Arthur Brodersen on February 6, 1965 and raised two children. Her lifelong passion was working with fabrics and textiles and she was an accomplished fiber arts artist. She owned two retail stores in Nashville which specialized in Scandinavian furniture and fabric wall hangings. She was glad to volunteer her time to causes that improved the lives of others.

She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Arthur Brodersen; her son, Jim Brodersen and wife Wendy Wolff of Alpharetta, Georgia; her daughter, Kris Brodersen and spouse Sharon Kimble of Minneapolis, Minnesota; her sister, Woodie Baumgardner and husband Carl of St. Simons, Georgia; nephews Mike Brodersen and Charlie Lipthratt; and her grandchild, Lillabeth Brodersen.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County.

[Obituary through Clary-Glenn Funeral Home & Crematory.]



Erin Marie Coutant –- 1992-2019

Erin Marie Coutant

CMA Ancestral Line: A33


Birth: 1 May 1992

Death: 13 February 2019


Erin Marie Coutant was born on May 1, 1992 in Denver, CO and passed away on February 13, 2019 in Irmo, South Carolina. Final arrangements were made by Dunbar Funeral Home, Dutch Fork Chapel.

Erin was the grand-daughter of Myran Morgan and the 6th great-granddaughter of Andrew McAlister (A33). Erin loved to help Myran do her genealogical research.



Ann Barkley -- 1930-2019 u

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: B03


Birth: 24 April 1930

Death: 10 January 2019


Ann Elizabeth Ford Barkley, 88, joined Jesus and her loved ones in her Heavenly Home on Thursday, January 10, 2019. Her mind and body have been perfectly restored. She was born April 24, 1930, in Union County to John Pinkney Ford, Jr., and Ellen Verlie McAllister Ford. She was a member of New Albany Presbyterian Church. She was a housewife. She was a member of the Hospital Auxiliary for 30 years which she thoroughly enjoyed. She loved gardening and working in her yard. In her later years she loved square dancing and was a member of both the Union County group and the Tippah County group. She especially delighted in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Services will be at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, January 13, 2019, at New Albany Presbyterian Church with Rev. Kyle Brent, Rev. Bill Everett, and Rev. Jim Davis officiating. Burial will be in Vista Memorial Park. United Funeral Service is in charge of the arrangements.

She is survived by 1 daughter: Sandra Ann Barkley McCollum (Steve) of Blue Mountain; 1 son: Dr. Thomas Ford Barkley (Betty Lou) of New Albany; 5 grandchildren: Ginger Ellen M. Statom, Angela Porter B. Davis (Jim), Samuel Ross Barkley (Lara), Leslie Suzanne M. Brockway (Patrick), and Corrie Elizabeth B. Reed (David); 19 great-grandchildren: Margaret Ann Statom, Virginia Grace Statom, Sarah Christine Statom, and Ellen Elizabeth Statom, all of Germantown, TN., Cora Elaine Brockway, Elliot McAllister Brockway, and Luke Steven Alan Brockway, all of New Albany, Turner Barkley Davis, Collins Samuel Davis, Ivey Katherine Davis, and James Robert Davis, all of Orlando, FL., Samuel Evans Barkley, Thomas Pryor Barkley, Eley Grace Barkley, and Robert Porter Barkley, all of Oxford, MS., Audrey Catherine Reed, Whitten David Reed, Elizabeth Bennett Reed, and Bennett Michael Reed, all of Oxford, MS.; and a special friend: Wayne Heavener.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband: Samuel Thomas Barkley; 1 sister: Ruth Hazel Ford Robbins; 4 brothers: John Stephen Ford, William Clifford Ford, Ralph Doyal Ford, and Walter Boswell Ford; an infant son; and a great-grandson: Joseph Barkley Reed.

Pallbearers will be Samuel Ross Barkley, Michael David Robbins, John Norman Robbins, John Charles Ford, Patrick Charles Brockway, and David Michael Reed.

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Saturday, January 12, 2019, at United Funeral Service. The body will lie-in-state from 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. Sunday, January 13, 2019, at the church.

Memorials may be made to New Albany Presbyterian Church or Alzheimers Mississippi, 855 S. Pear Orchard Rd. Suite 501, Ridgeland, MS., 39157.

(Courtesy of New Albany Presbyterian Church)



"Father" Donald McAllister -- 1933-2018

Father Don

CMA Ancestral Line: J12


Birth: 21 August 1933

Death: 26 August 2018


Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Donald McAllister, who died Sunday August 26, 2018, at St. Ann Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Dover, New Hampshire. He was 85.

Father McAllister was born in the town of Norway, Maine, on August 21, 1933, the son of Donald F. and Mildred (Oberg) McAllister. He was a 1955 graduate of the University of Maine, received an MA at Tufts University in 1956, an MS in American Literature at Columbia College, studied at University of Helsinki in Finland where he earned his PhD, and earned a MS in clinical psychology from Villanova University and a MS in theology at Washington Theological Coalition.

After teaching social studies for a year at Ellsworth High School, he served in the U.S. Army.  While stationed at Fort Jackson in South Carolina, he began attending Mass with several of his fellow soldiers, which resulted in his conversion to Catholicism. After the Army, he returned to Maine and taught at Milo High School and then at Wilbur Lynch High School in Amsterdam, New York. It was then that he discerned he might have a vocation to the priesthood. He began his novitiate with the Augustinian Fathers in 1965 and was ordained on his 38th birthday in 1971.

After his ordination, he went to San Francisco where he became chaplain at St. Mary Hospital. He then served at the Catherine McAuley Health Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and while there, also taught medical ethics at the University of Michigan Medical School and at a nursing program.

Father McAllister returned to Maine in 1988 and became chaplain at Mercy Hospital in Portland. He was formally welcomed as a member of the clergy of the Diocese of Portland in 1993. After retirement in 2003, he moved to Dover, New Hampshire, and resided and assisted at St. Mary Church and served as chaplain in residence at St. Ann Rehabilitation and Nursing Center for about 10 years.

A Mass of Thanksgiving was celebrated on Wednesday, September 5, at the Parish of the Assumption, St. Mary Church, corner of Chestnut & Third Sts., Dover, NH. The following day, Thursday, September 6, Bishop Robert Deeley celebrated a Memorial Mass at noon at St. Catherine of Sienna Church in Norway. Father Robert D. Lariviere was the homilist.

CINDY BRESSON: Rev. Don was one of the famous six Don McAlisters who were present at the Roanoke Gathering. I visited him in NH once and we had a terrific visit; he later gifted Frank with his MacAlister kilt outfit (the whole nine yards, no pun intended!).  



Robert Hunter Tate, Jr. -- 1934-2018 u

Robert Hunter Tate, Jr. Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: R02


Birth: 1934

Death: 1 August 2018


Cdr. Robert Hunter (“Bob” or “Bobby”) Tate, Jr., age 84, died August 1, 2018 at home in Southern Pines, North Carolina.

Throughout his life, Bob dedicated himself to the service of his country and his community. Bob’s military career began at New Hanover High School in the ROTC program, and continued with NROTC at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill.

After graduating from UNC, class of 1957, Bob reported for duty as an Anti-Submarine Warfare Officer aboard the USS Allen M. Sumner, under the command of Captain Oller. While serving off the coast of Cape Hatteras, the ship was visited by Secretary of Defense Neil McElroy, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Arleigh Burke, and Commander-in-Chief of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet Jerauld Wright.

Bob completed his required service and was discharged in 1958. He went on to work as a loan officer trainee with Cooperative Savings and Loan in Wilmington, NC, but continued to be affiliated with the local Ready Reserve Naval Unit. In July 1960, he was recalled to active duty by his former commanding officer to serve as a gunnery officer on the USS Kidd.

Bob sailed the Mediterranean from Spain to Italy, soaking up culture and stories. He served as administrative officer for the Joint Staff of the Defense Communications Agency in Spain, Italy, and Africa; Operations Officer, USS Rushmore; Resource Management Officer, Commander Training Command U.S. Atlantic Fleet; Executive Officer USS Rushmore; Logistics Officer Commander Amphibious Group 2; Joint Services Training Director, U.S. Military Mission to Turkey; and Director of Training and Executive Officer, Fleet Training Center, Norfolk, VA. One of the proudest moments of Bob’s career was when he was promoted to “XO” of the USS Rushmore within 45 days of the ship entering a desperately needed overhaul. The Rushmore then deployed to the Mediterranean as part of Amphibious Squadron 6. Seven months later, the Rushmore returned to CONUS, having received the PHIBRON 6 Battle Efficiency “E” award. Subsequently, the USS Rushmore was awarded the PHIBLAN Battle “E” as well and nominated for the Arleigh Burke Fleet Trophy. Bob retired from the Navy in 1978 after a rewarding Naval career with a lifetime of tales.

While in the Navy, Bob met his future wife, Mary Francis Howe Tate, born in Hamlet, NC and raised in Buffalo, NY. Bob and Mary Francis met in 1965 in Wrightsville Beach, NC, and were married at the Village Chapel in Pinehurst, NC in 1966. Upon Bob’s retirement from the Navy, the Tates moved with their three children to Southern Pines, NC, where Bob began a career in real estate.

Bob served his community as a member of the Planning Board of the Town of Southern Pines from 1981–1992 and was named Chairman twice; by shepherding the adoption of the Town’s UDO, thus preserving equestrian rights in Southern Pines; as President of the Southern Pines Business Association in 1989; as a member of Southern Pines Rotary Club, serving as its president in 1990 and becoming recognized as a Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow; as President of the Pinehurst- Southern Pines Area Association of Realtors in 1992; as Chairman of North Carolina Association of Realtors’ Legislative Affairs Committee, 1993- 1994; and as founding Director of the Carolina Horse Park Foundation, 1998-2002. Bob served for 12 years on the board of the North Carolina Veterinary Medicine Foundation and was instrumental in raising funds for the Randall B. Terry, Jr. Companion Animal Veterinary Medical Center. He also continued to be active with the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity at UNC-Chapel Hill.

Bob is survived by his wife of 52 years, Mary Francis “Muff” Howe Tate, by his son, Robert Hunter Tate, III (Tammy) and two daughters, Mary Elizabeth Tate and Charlotte Anna Tate, DVM, and by two grandchildren, Alexander Carson Tate and Emily Stevenson Tate.

Bob was a member of Brownson Memorial Presbyterian Church, where he sang in the choir. A memorial service will be held at the church, located at 330 South May Street in Southern Pines on Saturday, August 18, 2018 at 11:00 AM. A reception and visitation with the family will be held in the fellowship hall following the service.

Memorials may be made in Bob’s name to Brownson Church Music Department for Choral Music. Services are entrusted to Boles funeral Home of Southern Pines.

Cindy McAlister Bresson alerted us to Bob’s passing and noted: Bob Tate loved all things Scottish and especially all things McAlister. He participated in the Scottish Research Project (SRP) and made several trips to Scotland. On at least two occasions he met with Clan MacAlister Chief William St. John Somerville McAlester, attempting without success to convince the clan chief to share some early MacAlister records.



COL Herbert Sidney “Herb” Holland Jr. -- 1924-2018 u

Herbert Sidney Holland Jr. photo

CMA Ancestral Line: PJ01


Birth: 11 Oct 1924

Death: 20 May 2018 (aged 93)


Burial: Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery , San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas, USA


Memorial ID: 189940755 · View Source



Herbert S. Holland Jr. died on May 20, 2018, after a sudden illness. Herb was born in Ithaca, New York, on October 11, 1924, to Herbert and Mary (Bride) Holland. He was their only child.

After serving as an enlisted soldier with the 696th Armored Field Artillery Battalion in the European theater during World War II, he returned to his hometown of Ithaca. He graduated from Cornell University and was commissioned as an officer in the Reserves in 1948. A year later he completed the MBA program at Cornell, and shortly after that he married the love of his life, Elizabeth McAllister, in Ithaca on August 27, 1949. He completed the Field Artillery Basic Course as a Reserve officer and was planning a career as a civilian accountant, but he changed his mind when he heard the big guns fire at Fort Sill. He instead became a Regular Army officer and served a total of twenty-seven years of active service in the United States Army, including additional combat tours during the Korean War and Vietnam War. His decorations include the Bronze Star Medal and the Legion of Merit, and he retired at the rank of Colonel. With his wife and their ten children, Herb lived in Germany and many places in the US. After retiring from the Army in 1975, Herb & Betty lived in Duncan, OK, and in New Braunfels, TX, before relocating to The Towers in San Antonio in 2004. Herb devoted his life to his family, the Catholic Church, the Field Artillery, and the United States Army. He loved to travel with Betty, and he enjoyed reading, stamp collecting, genealogy, games, and working on his computer. At the Towers he also enjoyed socializing with his many friends.

He was preceded in death by his youngest son, LTC Daniel Holland, who was killed in action in Iraq in 2006, and by his wife Betty, who died in 2007. Herb is survived by sons Robert & wife Carol, Rochester, MN; Mark & wife Josie, Irving, TX; David & wife Mary Ann, New Braunfels, TX; John & wife Rita, Coon Rapids, MN; daughters Patricia Nixon & husband Tom, Oklahoma City, OK; Mary Ralya & husband Steve, Brenham, TX; Claire Nieswiadomy & husband Michael, Denton, TX; Catherine Ochoa & husband Joe, New Braunfels, TX; and Elizabeth Blute & husband Peter, Houston, TX; and son Daniel's widow, Sheryl, Boerne, TX; thirty grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren.

A memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on May 29th at St. Pius X Catholic Church in San Antonio. Interment with full military honors will be held at 9:30 AM on May 30th at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to any military veterans charity or pro-life organization.



Kevin Leo McAllister -- 1961-2018

Kevin McAllister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: P01


Birth: 4 March 1961

Death: 8 March 2018


On March 8, 2018, our dearly beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, and lifelong friend, Kevin Leo McAllister, entered his Savior's arms after a long and valiant battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born March 4, 1961 in Provo, Utah to Dale and Faye McAllister, the 5th and last of their children.

He was an absolute delight and joy to be around from infancy through the rest of his life, being known for his contagious smile and magnetic personality. He grew up in Orem, Utah, graduated from Orem High and soon thereafter married his high school sweetheart, Cheryl Stubbs in the Provo temple. They brought three lovely daughters and a tall, dark, and handsome son into their family.

Although Kevin was not particularly keen on formal education, he was born with a great gift of mechanical imagination and creativity. After some jobs working for others he went into business for himself as a landscape installer. That eventually led to working for an invention firm to build and test prototypes of new machines to prove they worked. He eventually left that firm and started his own that continued the rest of his life, creatively inventing new useful products from vinyl extrusion machines and trucks that pulled train cars to giant pipe lining machines sold locally and overseas. He constantly amazed all that knew him with his mechanical genius and creativity. His final product now being sold by the thousands nationwide is the WeighSafe trailer hitch that weighs the tongue weight of trailers for added safety. He will also be remembered for his adventurous if not daredevil spirit to try all kinds of scary but stimulating tricks, with or without machines and his creative fun at family reunions including turning his pickup truck bed into a hot tub on the beach and rigging a long zip line over an arm of Lake Powell.

While growing into his life's work, he served faithfully in the LDS church in many capacities including young men's, bishoprics, bishop of a single adult ward and faithful temple worker. But, no matter his outside interests or duties, his family was always first and he loved playing and being with them. His four children all grew up, married, and three have had children of their own, two of them born in the last three months as all were praying that Kevin would last long enough to meet them. He was so beloved by all that knew him for his wonderful cheerful countenance and warm supporting and congenial personality. The most common compliment paid to him has been "He always made me feel so happy and good about myself." That was one of his many gifts that we will all miss and those on the other side of the veil with whom he now associates will get a chance to enjoy. We love you Kevin, always have, always will.

Kevin is survived by his parents, Dale and Faye McAllister; three brothers, Craig, Mike, Jeff; a sister, Cindy Tuaileva; his lovely wife, Cheryl; his four children, Kylee Pickering, Kelcie Frandsen, Carson, and Cassidy Frandsen and their eight wonderful grandchildren that knew Kevin affectionately as "Poppy".



Raymond Lee McAlister -- 1957-2018

Raymond Lee McAlister photo

CMA Ancestral Line: N06


Birth: 18 December 1957

Death: 10 January 2018, in Lawton, OK


Funeral service for Raymond McAlister, 60, of Lawton will be at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at Cameron Baptist Church.

Raymond passed away on Wednesday, January 10, 2018 in Lawton.

Burial will be at Old Elgin Cemetery, Elgin, Oklahoma under the direction of Lawton Ritter Gray Funeral Home. Viewing will be held on Sunday, January 14, 2018 from 12:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Monday, from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. with a special viewing and visitation for family and friends on Monday from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Raymond Lee McAlister was born on December 18, 1957 to T.J. "Mac" and Sybil (Stinnett) McAlister. Raymond was raised on the south side of Lawton and attended school at Lincoln Elementary. Being the very special young man that he was, he also attended the Robert Greiner School for Handicapped Children and Young Adults for many years.

The Lord gave Raymond a special blessing that he has shared with many others over the course of his life on this earth. He led a very busy life participating in church functions, sporting events, rodeos, stock car races, county courthouse activities and the Oklahoma Special Olympics. He was famously known as "Bicycle Raymond" because he rode his bicycle everywhere, especially in local parades, always sporting the American Flag. Raymond was one of a kind and never let his handicap rule over his life. He will be sadly missed by all, but all have truly been blessed by knowing him.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents and his step-father, Joe Standridge.

Raymond is survived by many friends of the Lawton community and surrounding areas.

Raymond was a welcomed member of many organizations over the past 40 years. He never knew a stranger.

In lieu of flowers please make your donations to Lawton Ritter Gray Funeral Home or to one of the many Lawton community organizations that Raymond loved so much.

(Courtesy of the Lawton Ritter Gray Funeral Home)



Billie Cline McAllister -- 1932-2017 u

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: J26


Birth: 24 March 1932

Death: 3 February 2017


Billie Cline McAllister, age 84, a lifelong resident of the Mount Pleasant area, passed away Friday, February 3, 2017, at the Mount Pleasant House after a period of declining health. She was born in Gold Hill, NC on March 24, 1932, and was the second daughter born to the late Archie and Evelena Cline.

In addition to her parents, Billie was preceded in death by her husband, Bob McAllister, two sisters, Ruth Hopkins and Sue Walker, and two brothers, Harold Cline and Michael Cline, as well as her beloved daughter, Belinda McAllister Atkinson. She leaves behind a daughter, Robin McAllister, a son-in-law, Neely Atkinson, a grandson, Gentry Atkinson, a granddaughter, Emma Atkinson, and two sisters, Peggy Green and Linda Riley. She also leaves a loving group of nieces and nephews, a circle of supportive friends, as well as all of those who remember “Miss Billie”, either from her days as a teacher’s aide or her time at the Eastern Cabarrus Historical Society Museum in Mount Pleasant.

She was a member of the Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity in Mount Pleasant where she served for many years as Historian, and where the altar was graced several times a year by the flowers she grew in her garden. She was a devoted member of the Eastern Cabarrus Historical Society, serving in many capacities there and remaining on the Board until her death.

She was a wonderful artist and her oil paintings grace the walls of many homes and businesses in Mount Pleasant, but her largest collection of work can be found at the museum.

She was an avid gardener as well, preferring time in the yard to almost any other activity. Her other skills include sewing and quilting. However, in most recent years, Billie was most content with a good book and the television.

A memorial service for Billie will be held on Thursday, February 9 at noon at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity in Mount Pleasant. Following the service, a “Celebration of All Things Billie Loved” will be held in Society Hall on the grounds of the Eastern Cabarrus Historical Society Museum on Main Street in Mount Pleasant. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the ECHS Museum, P.O. Box 1299, Mount Pleasant, NC 28124.

A special thank you for the unwavering expressions of support and extraordinary care and devotion goes to the staff of the Mount Pleasant House Assisted Living Facility; Hospice and Palliative Care of Cabarrus County; Dr. Lara Pons; Steve, Teresa, and Wilson McAllister; Vickey Cline, Elizabeth Bost, Mr. Gene Hough, and to everyone else who reached out to support and to love “Miss Billie”.



Paul Emmitt Towry, Founder of Clan McAlister of America -- 1920-2016


CMA Ancestral Line: A05; CMA Member Number: 1


Birth: 1920

Death: 15 March 2016


Colonel Paul E. Towry (Army Ret.), age 96, died on Tuesday, March 15, 2016 in New Braunfels, Texas. He was born and raised in Skinem, Tennessee. PaulT

Following high school graduation, he graduated from Chillicothe (Ohio) Business College. Soon thereafter, he began his 30-year Army career. His military service spanned World War II, with combat service in France and Germany, through Vietnam. His assignments took him and his family throughout the United States, Europe and the Far East.

Following his Army retirement, Paul's entrepreneurial spirit helped him succeed in two business ventures—an import/export business in Okinawa dealing in oriental fine art and jewelry, and after returning to the US, a flooring business in Eureka Springs, AR. He finally retired to Texas, where he continued his hobbies as a poet, songwriter, world traveler with his wife Nita, and genealogist of the Towry and McAlister names. He helped found the Towry/Towery Family of America, serving as President, Director, and Trustee. He was bestowed their highest honor of Chairman Emeritus several years ago. He also helped found the Clan McAlister of America, a genealogical organization to research his maternal family heritage.

Paul's interest in genealogy was of particular importance to him and it can be said, “he never met a stranger.” He would ask everyone he met ‘what’s your name and where are you from?’ Paul is preceded in death by his parents, John Ewin and Mary Julia McAlister Towry; and wives Ruth S. Towry-Mortar, Ethel “Kathi” Milsted Towry, and the strongest love of his life, Juanita Strock Towry.

He is survived by his children John F. (Gretchen) Towry, Paula Towry, Linda (Vahe) Najarian and Patricia (Laurent) Sibiril; six grandchildren Hollie Dean, Michelle Hetzel, Jennifer Fisher, Aida Kenyon, Oshine Najarian, Jessica Hozain and Quintin Sibiril; ten great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren.

Joint services will be held for both Col. Towry and his wife, Juanita, who died on January 29, 2016. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to the Fisher House Foundation at www.fisherhouse.org. More information



Elaine McAllister (Grant) Moody -- 1927-2016

Elaine McAllister Moody Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: P01


Birth: 21 July 1927

Death: 10 March 2016


Elaine Moody passed away in her birth city, Provo, Utah, on March 10, 2016. She felt blessed to live long enough to tour the Provo City Center Temple because the Tabernacle held many memories for her. Elaine was born into a valiant family on July 21, 1927, the youngest of John Wells and Mary Myrl Alder McAllister's five children. As a Daughter of Utah Pioneers, she was always grateful for her ancestors.

When she was a year old, the family moved to California, where they lived until World War II broke out. The sighting of a submarine off the coast and concerns for the family's safety prompted a move to her parents' hometown of Manti, Utah. They later moved to Provo where Elaine finished high school and attended Brigham Young University (BYU).

She married her high school sweetheart, Albert Eugene Harry, on September 2, 1947 after he returned from serving in the Army. They raised four children in Logan, Utah and enjoyed many happy family times camping, boating and snowmobiling. Al and Elaine divorced in 1977, after which Elaine worked at Utah State University, finished her Associate degree, served a full-time mission in Jackson, Mississippi, and earned a Certified Professional Secretary degree.

On May 11, 1984, following a whirlwind courtship, Elaine married Edward Grant Moody, a widower and Professor of Animal Science at Arizona State University. Their first project together was compiling the book "John Wyatt Moody Family, Past and Present". They served full-time missions at the BYU Benson Institute where Grant wrote the book "Raising Small Animals for Food", the Washington D.C. Temple Visitor Center, and Provo LDS Employment Center. They also served in the Orlando Florida Temple. Throughout her life, Elaine served tirelessly in church callings, including Ordinance Worker in the Provo Temple with Grant for 10 years. She had an abiding love for her Savior Jesus Christ. She loved gardening, quilting, sewing, dancing, music, travel, and, especially, entertaining. She was the ultimate hostess! Her greatest happiness was in her friends, her sweet husband Grant, and their combined 11 children, 43 grandchildren and 99 great-grandchildren.

She endured many trials with grace and guileless trust in God. Her favorite hymn was "Love One Another"; we honor her memory as we follow that admonition.

She is survived by her children Kathryn (Mark) Bardwell, Rick (Jeri) Harry, Donald (Pauline) Harry, Ronald (Tena) Harry, Grant's children Kimberly (Dana) Moody, Janene (Brent) Farley, Margo (Quinn) Johnson, Gregory Noble (Kristina) Moody, Deborah (Dennis) Slothower, Melinda (Robert) Allen, Lauralee (Daniel) Bailey, and a brother, Dale (Laura) McAllister. She is also survived by a large, but unknown number of surrogate children and grandchildren because she loved everyone and everyone loved her. She was preceded in death by her loving husband Grant, and siblings Wells, Lucile and Earl. Funeral services will be on March 14 at 11 AM in the Pleasant View First Ward located at 650 E. Stadium Ave., Provo, Utah. Friends may call at Sundberg-Olpin Mortuary, 495 S. State in Orem, on Sunday, March 13 from 6 to 8 PM, or at the church from 9:30 to 10:30 AM, prior to the funeral .Interment, Manti City Cemetery.

(Courtesy of Sundberg-Olpin Mortuary)



Juanita "Nita" Shepard (Strock) Towry -- 1922-2016

Nita

Birth: 3 February 1922

Death: 29 January 2016


Juanita "Nita" Shepard (Strock) Towry, age 93, passed away in San Antonio, Texas on Friday, January 29, 2016. She was born on February 3, 1922 in Cleveland, Ohio. Nita attended Allegheny College in Pennsylvania. After many years living in Dallas, Texas, she relocated to Eureka Springs, Arkansas. There, Nita was elected as the City Clerk/Treasurer for the City of Eureka Springs, where she later retired. She was a 75-year member of Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority and a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank Meredith Strock and Eda Shepard (Lowrie) Strock and her first husband, William J. Barner. Nita will be remembered as a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She is survived by her devoted husband of 22 years, Col. Paul E. Towry (US Army Ret.); her son, Bradley Barner; granddaughter, Jennifer Barner Fisher and husband, Thomas; grandsons, Robin Barner and wife, Sarah; and Chris Barner and wife, Jenny; four great-grandchildren, Matthew Fisher, Lauren Fisher, Beetrix Barner and Ruby Barner; and stepson, John Towry and wife, Gretchen. In lieu of flowers, request memorial gifts to the San Antonio Chapter of the Salvation Army. More information



Jean Ardith Thomas (McAllister) – 1927-2015

Jean Ardith Thomas photo

Birth: 1927

Death: 11 October 2015


[Obituary by Tammie Calder (19 Oct 2015) in the International Falls Journal (ifallsjournal.com)]

Jean Thomas, of Longville, Minn., passed away peacefully at her home Sunday, Oct. 11, 2015, at the age of 88.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lee Thomas; and her parents, Katie Wilmot (Bogart) and Joe McAllister.

She is survived by her brothers, sister, and in-laws, Dan McAllister (Corrine), Micky Mechelke (Bob), Walt McAllister (Jeanette), Pete McAllister (Jenny), Verna Spalj and Don Thomas.

She is survived by her children, Peggy Thomas, Dan Thomas, Toni Hajek and Ben Thomas (Jackie); grandchildren, Natalie, Deirdre, Meg, Annie, Keith, Beau, Daniel and Robin; 10 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Jean, born in Backus, Minn., in 1927, graduated from the University of Minnesota to become a teacher and school librarian.

Her career took her to International Falls, Minn., in 1957 and St. Paul, Minn., in 1970 until 1985 when Jean and Lee moved to Longville to enjoy retirement.

She taught with great compassion and exuberance and loved her students.

Jean was an avid sailor, cross-country skier, hiker, traveler, volunteer and reader.

Throughout her life she was involved in community activities such as theatre, political campaigns, support groups, and an advocate for world peace. Jean was a true humanitarian.

Her love of family made her an exceptional wife, mother and grandmother.

Her memory will be cherished and she lives on in our hearts.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, at Salem Lutheran Church, Longville.

Arrangements are with Kline Funeral Home, Pine River, Minn.



Wade Starr -- 1928-2015

Wade Starr Pic

Birth: 27 August 1928

Death: 2 October 2015


Wade Starr, 87, of Dallas passed away on Friday, October 2, 2015 at a local Dallas hospital. He will always be remembered as a generous, loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to all that knew and loved him.

He was born in Dallas, Texas on August 27, 1928 to Luther and Alice Rutledge Starr. After his father's death in 1937, his mother married M. D. (Bob) Holston with whom he enjoyed a close father-son relationship. His mother and step-father owned A&B Transfer and Storage Company and he began working in the business at an early age. He graduated from Jesuit Preparatory School in 1946. He attended Southern Methodist University where he received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree (with a major in Accounting) in 1949 and a Juris Doctorate in 1963. He received his license to practice Law in 1963 and continued to practice in the firm of Goodstein & Starr, P. C. until his retirement January 1, 1996. He served in the U. S. Naval Reserve from June 23, 1948 until January 6, 1953 when he enlisted in the U. S. Navy for active duty. He was honorably discharged October 29, 1954.

His passion for photography and swimming began in his youth. In later years, it would include family history and genealogical research. In his retirement years, much of his time was devoted to working with several genealogical societies. He published a book of photos, testimonials and family history dedicated to his maternal grandmother Mary Magdeline McAlister. He enjoyed traveling, fishing and just spending time at his condo on the Texas Coast.

Survivors include his wife Joy Turner Star; daughters: Ann Conner and Dana Bates (husband Leland); grandchildren: Michael Wade, Erin, Meghan and Drew Conner, Nikki Crocker and Taylor Bates; great grandchildren: Morgan Conner, Katlyn and Kai Crocker, Austin and Garrett Hill, Preston Bates; brother-in-law Don Turner, sister-in-law Edwina Dye; numerous nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, mother and step-father.

A Funeral Service will be at 2:00 pm on Thursday, October 8, 2015 at Sparkman/Hillcrest Northwest Chapel, 7405 W. Northwest Hwy., Dallas, TX 75225. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Wednesday, October 7, 2015 at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society Online condolences can be made at www.Sparkman-Hillcrest.com. More information



Charles J. McAllister -- 1933-2015

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: WH02; CMA Member Number: 2094


Birth: 17 February 1933

Death: 23 May 2015


Charles J. McAllister, age 82. Beloved husband of Melani, nee Breundl . Loving father of Kevin (Colleen) McAllister, Lanae Recinas, Kim (James Kelly) McKinney. Special grandfather of Andrew, Benjamin, Tess, Kyra, Kelsey, Sean, J. Ryan, Kaelyn and Colin. Dear Brother of Arlene Caruso. Uncle of one niece and nephew.

Funeral Information: Funeral Thursday May 28, 9:30 am from Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home, 6150 N. Cicero Ave., to Queen of All Saints Basilica for Mass at 10:00 am. Interment St. Joseph Cemetery, River Grove, Cook County, Illinois.

Find-A-Grave memorial id: 146949389

(Courtesy of Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home)



Donald Van McCalister Sr. -- 1934-2015 u

Donald Van McCalister Sr. Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: WC01


Birth: 23 June 1934

Death: 7 May 2015


June 23, 1934 – May 7, 2015 Dr. Donald Van McCalister, Sr., son of Reece B. McCalister and Eula Barnes Rainey of Santa Paula, CA, passed peacefully from this life surrounded by his family, including his dogs on 5/7/15 after a long illness.

Don ("Mac") received a B.A. from Fresno State University and a Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. His academic career took him from North Carolina State, Tulane, Case Western Reserve University, and finally to the University of Alabama, Huntsville where he served as Director of Medical Student Affairs and Professor of Sociology. He loved his students and remained in contact with many of them after his retirement in 1994.

In 1982, Don and Noel moved to Hurricane Valley, near New Market, and established a 5-acre vineyard of wine grapes and eventually the first licensed winery in North Alabama. They operated Alistair Vineyards for nearly 10 years, winning wine tasting awards throughout the Tennessee Valley.

Mac, a true renaissance man, was both intellectual and artist. His book, "Readings In Family Planning: A Challenge to the Health Professions," is still referenced today. His love of research, especially his family's genealogy, juxtaposes his mastery of carpentry, learned from his father and his brother, artisan wine making and photography.

Above all, he spent a lifetime in service to others and always tried to live by the rule "treat folks right."

Dr. McCalister is survived by his loving wife Noel Roberts McCalister, sons Don Jr., Kirby and Ian; grandchildren Ashleigh Crane, Taylor Elliott, Audrey and Addison McCalister, and Greysen, Reed, and Oak McCalister. Great grandchildren include Andrew Crane, Aiden, Callie, and Colby Elliott. He is also survived by his brother Raymond McCalister, nephews Raymond and Ian McCalister, and niece Linda Smith.

A memorial service will be held at Lakewood Methodist Church in Huntsville, AL on Saturday, May 16, 2015 at 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers you may make a contribution to: Lakewood Methodist Church, Doctors Without Borders, Wounded Warrior Project, Humane Society of Huntsville, or the charity of your choice.

Courtesy of Huntsville Times, The (AL) - Saturday, May 9, 2015; the obituary for Dr. Donald Van McCalister Sr., GenealogyBank.com (https://www.genealogybank.com/doc/obituaries/obit/15DD4088CE98DCB8-15DD4088CE98DCB8 : accessed 16 December 2023)



Wanda J. Shelton -- 1933-2015

Wanda

CMA Ancestral Line: W10; CMA Member Number: 658


Birth: 9 February 1933

Death: 1 March 2015


Wanda Joy (Haworth) Shelton entered this life on February 9, 1933 to Troy Elwood and Ina Lowell (Rider) Haworth in Achille , Oklahoma. Wanda went home to be with her Lord and Savior on March 1, 2015 in Denison, Texas at the age of 82 years and 20 days.

Wanda has lived in Bryan County for most of her life and graduated from Blue High School. On December 10, 1954 in Durant, Wanda and James Wesley Shelton were united in marriage and spent many loving years together until his passing on September 28, 1998. She spent 15 years as an Air Force wife, living in many different states. Wanda was an independent business woman owning her own florist shop and also a drapery business. Later on, she worked as a genealogist and was also active in many organizations including, Mary Quisenberry Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution, National Society of Colonial Dames XVII Century, National Society of United States Daughters of 1812 and United Daughters of the Confederacy having served these organizations in both local and state offices. Wanda was a member of the First Baptist Church in Durant where she was a part of the Adult III Sunday School class and was also a longtime volunteer for the Bryan Co. Genealogy Library in Calera , Oklahoma . In her free time, Wanda enjoyed genealogy, sewing, gardening, reading, OU football, traveling and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Wanda is preceded in death by her husband, James Shelton; parents, Ina and Troy Haworth; grandson, Bo Jay Cowan; great granddaughters, Josslyn Marie Peddy and Nora Norton.

Wanda is survived by her two daughters, Lisa Diane Cowan of Durant, Lori Cathleen Peddy and husband Jimmy Dale of Durant; brothers, Donald Elwood Haworth of Durant, Gary Louis Haworth of Durant; granddaughters, Tracey Michelle O’Brien and husband Command Master Chief Joseph Alan O’Brien of Virginia Beach, VA, Amanda Cathleen Norton and husband Landon of Ft. Worth, TX, Jana Marie Johnson of Albuquerque, NM, Sarah Elizabeth Smarr and husband James J. Smarr of Sherman, TX; granddaughter-in-law, Michelle Cowan of San Diego, CA; grandsons, Matthew Jay Cowan and wife Susie of Little Rock, AR, Private First Class Joshua Allen Peddy of Ft. Meade, MD; great grandchildren, Kaitlynn O’Brien, Courtney Cowan, Greta Cowan, Bailey Carroway, Kenny Carroway, Brynne Norton, Braith Norton, Dara Norton, Maryn Norton, Maiya Johnson, Makenna Johnson and Jolee Smarr; along with many other loving family and friends.

Wanda was CMA member #658 and joined CMA in 1994. She was in the W10-William McCollister family line. Wanda was elected to the CMA Board of Directors and Chairman of the Genealogy Committee, July 2000. She served on the Board of Directors until July 2006 and Chairman of the Genealogy Committee until December 2006. In July 2007 she was elected to the CMA Board of Trustees and served until her death March 1, 2015. Wanda became interested in DNA as a helping hand in Genealogy research in about the year 2000. She started the McAlister DNA Project in Family Tree DNA and served as Co-Administrator until her death in 2015.



Charles W. McAlister - 1932-2014

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: J62; CMA Member Number: 944


Birth: 26 March 1932

Death: 17 December 2014


Charles W. McAlister, born March 26, 1932 died peacefully on December 17, 2014 at his home in Colorado Springs, CO. He is survived by Eileen, his bride of 58 years, his son Steve, 3 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents Charles Verious and Agnes McAlister.

"Chuck" was born in Kansas City, Missouri where he graduated from Rochurst High School and Toledo University.

He served his country in the U.S. Army performing several tours in Vietnam and Korea. After 20 years, Chuck was honorably discharged from the Army.

Chuck loved his Catholic faith and was an active member of Corpus Christ Church where he served in the Food Pantry and completed a 4-year Bible Study at Benet Hill.

He loved genealogy and left a lengthy, well-researched history to his family, being active in the Pikes Peak Genealogy Club, and the Genealogy Computer Club.

Chuck's family would like to thank the staff at Penrose Hospital, The Center at Centennial, and Pikes Peak Hospice for their wonderful care given to Chuck.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on December 22, 2014 at Corpus Christi Church followed by a reception in the parish hall.

[Courtesy of Gazette, The (Colorado Springs, CO) - Friday, December 19, 2014; Gazette, The () , obit for Charles W. McAlister, GenealogyBank.com (https://www.genealogybank.com/doc/obituaries/obit/1524F7CB0C5107C8-1524F7CB0C5107C8 : accessed 3 July 2024)]



Pauletta Allen King -- 1946-2013

Pauletta Allen King Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: W15; CMA Member Number: 326


Birth: 25 September 1946

Death: 28 December 2013


Pauletta Allen King, 67, of Raleigh died Saturday, December 28, 2013 at her home. Pauletta was native of Raleigh and the daughter of the late Millard and Brondelle Allen. She graduated from Needham B. Broughton in 1964 and attended Peace College. She was a lifelong member of Hayes Barton United Methodist Church. Pauletta was a die-hard Democrat who loved politics, NCSU Athletics, gardening, genealogy research, and was a member of Daughters of the Revolution.

She was predeceased in death by her husband, Ronald Syke King, in 1995; and her granddaughter, Angelica Maecy Woods, in 2009. Pauletta survived by her three children; daughter, Ronette K. Wheeler of Raleigh; son, Ronald S. King, Jr. and wife, Donna, of Raleigh; daughter, Mary K. Bridgers and husband, Paul, of Garner; all six grandchildren; and a special friend, Chris Dunlap.

A memorial service to honor her life will be held Saturday, January 4th at 1:00 pm at Hayes Barton United Methodist Church, 2209 Fairview Drive, Raleigh, NC 27608. The family will receive friends following the service in the church Fellowship Hall. Burial will be private.

Arrangements by Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, St. Mary’s Street, Raleigh, NC.

(Courtesy of Brown-Wynne Funeral Home & Crematory)



John Y. McCollister -- 1921-2013

John Y. McCollister

Birth: 10 June 1921

Death: 1 November 2013


John Y. McCollister, June 10th, 1921 to November 1, 2013, is survived by his wife Betty H. McCollister; children: John S. McCollister (Deb), Stephen J. McCollister (Pat), and Bruce C. McCollister (Cathy). Grandchildren: S. Scott McCollister (Trina), Todd J. McCollister (Lania), Lauren Ledger (Dan), Daniel McCollister, Keith McCollister (Larissa), John P. McCollister (Mallory), Jeff McCollister, Beth Josten (Brian), and Molly McCollister. Step-Grandchildren: Matt Jackson (April), Angela Olander (Dave), Nate Jackson (Meisha). Great-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren: Aspen McCollister, Cadence McCollister, Mallory Jackson, Hudson McCollister, Andrew Ledger, Sawyer McCollister, David Ledger, Brady McCollister, Bennett McCollister, Brooklyn Olander, and Morgan Jackson. Brother R. Paul McCollister (Barbie). Preceeded in death by his parents, John M. and Ruth Y. McCollister; his first wife Nanette S. McCollister; his brothers, Edwin S. McCollister and Howard R. McCollister.

Education:

Mr. McCollister is a graduate of the University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, with the degree of a Bachelor of Science in Commerce. (1943) He was President of the College of Commerce Senior Class of "43, President of the Commerce Club, President of Phi Kappa Psi social fraternity and a member of the Iowa track and cross-country teams.

Military Service:

Upon graduation from the University of Iowa, Mr. McCollister was inducted into the United States Naval Reserve and was commissioned as Ensign in August, 1943. He was ordered to attend the Navy Radar Technical School at Harvard and MIT. Upon completion of that training in August of 1944, he served as RADAR Officer aboard the USS Birmingham, CL 62 in the Western Pacific. In January 1946 he was released to inactive duty with the rank of Lieutenant (jg)

Business:

He was a Sales Representative for IBM in Moline, Illinois, and Waterloo, Iowa from 1946 to 1952. In early 1952 he became IBM Special Representative to the meat packing industry throughout the United States. He left IBM in mid-1953 to join his father in the manufacture of fluid lubricants in Omaha, Nebraska. Now, partially retired, he serves as the Chairman of the Board of Directors, McCollister & Company, Council Bluffs, Iowa, a regional manufacturer of fluid lubricants. He was a member of the Board of Directors of the Omaha National Bank (now US Bank--Nebraska) until his election to the United States House of Representatives in 1970.

Community Service:

Leadership has been given to a number of Omaha organizations. He served the Mid America Council, BSA, in a number of capacities including three terms as Council President. He also served as Regional Chairman and a member of the National Board of Directors of the Boy Scouts of America. Scouting has awarded the Silver Beaver and the Silver Antelope to him. He has been the President of the Downtown Omaha Kiwanis Club, President of a school Community Club, taught church school for ten years. He was chairman of the Board of Trustees and an Elder of Dundee Presbyterian Church. He is a Mason, 32 degree KCCH Scottish Rite. He has been a member of the Boards of Directors of Greater Omaha Community Action, Westside Community Schools, Omaha Chamber of Commerce, Omaha Sales Executives, Omaha Association for Retarded Children, Omaha Children's Hospital and Iowa Association of Business and Industry. For a number of years he gave leadership to various sections of the United Fund campaigns. Recently he was a member of the Board of Trustees, Countryside Community Church in Omaha, and was chair of Countryside Church's recent Sanctuary capital fund campaign.

Political Involvement:

He has been an active Republican Party volunteer serving as Second District Chairman, State Executive Committee, Senior President of Nebraska Republican Founders Day, a delegate to the National Conventions in 1968 and 1988. In elective office, he was elected to be a Douglas County Commissioner twice and was elected to the US House of Representatives three times, 1971-1977. He was the Republican nominee for election to the United States Senate in 1976. He has recently served as a member of the Board of Directors of the United States Association of Former Member of Congress and was chair of the Association Long Range Planning Committee.

Private Inurnment services will be held at Countryside Community Church Columbarium. A memorial service will be held at Dundee Presbyterian Church at 10:30 a.m. on November 8, 2013, followed by a reception in the Church's Memorial Hall. The family requests that memorials be made to the VNA Hospice program in Omaha or to a charity of your choice.



Stephen McCallister -- 1949-2013

Stephen McCallister

Birth: 1949

Death: 23 May 2013


Stephen McCallister passed away Thursday, May 23, 2013. He was born in Evansville in 1949 and graduated from Magister Noster Latin School. He graduated from St. Meinrad College with a BA degree in 1971. He had worked variously for Marianna Interiors, St. Mary's Medical Center, Stephen Witte Associates and Image Source Photography. He was keyboardist for 15 years at Holy Rosary Church and then a choir member, cantor and psalmist at St. Mary Church downtown, the last three years he was Director of Worship at St. Mary's. He had formerly sung with the Evansville Philharmonic Chorus and the Evansville Choral Artists.

Stephen was a former president of the Westside Improvement Association; an inductee in the Brute Society of the Diocese of Evansville and a Kentucky Colonel. He was an avid gardener, historian and genealogist. Hiscontributions to the Clan McAlister of America were significant, both as a researcher and an excellent Query editor.

He was the son of Charles C. McCallister and Catherine T. McCallister who predeceased him. He is survived by two sisters, Vickie Kane (John) and Mary Anne Schmitt (Tony); two nephews, Curtis Schmitt (Shelley) and Brent Schmitt (Jaclyn); niece, Jenna Schmitt; great nephew, Liam Thomas Schmitt; and special cousin; Michael Kinch (Kris) and daughter Jacqueline.

A Mass of Resurrection will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, May 28, 2013 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, officiated by the Rev. Stephen P. Lintzenich. Visitation will be on Monday, May 27, 2013 from 4:00-8:00 PM at the church and on Tuesday from 9:00 AM until service time. Interment will take place following at St. Joseph Cemetery. Alexander West Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary's Church for memorial Masses or to St. Meinrad Archabbey



Louise Nanney Godwin -- 1918-2012

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: B03


Birth: 15 October 1918

Death: 15 July 2012

Burial: Tupelo Memorial Park Cemetery, Tupelo, MS, Section C - Row 1

Memorial ID: 93735033


Tupelo MS - Louise Nanney Godwin, a lifelong Tupelo resident and widely admired civic leader, died peacefully Sunday, July 15, 2012, at her residence. Mrs. Godwin was the widow of the late Chauncey Rivers Godwin, Sr., a prominent manufacturer, entrepreneur, and statewide business leader. She was the daughter of the late Mayor James Philip Nanney and Annie McAllister Nanney. Mrs. Godwin grew up in a household fully engaged in the city's business, political, religious, and civic life, including recovery from both the Great Depression and the devastating 1936 tornado, which destroyed her family home and required that her father lead government and relief efforts from rented hotel rooms. Mrs. Godwin graduated from Tupelo High School, attended Belhaven College, and graduated from the University of Mississippi. She was an avid fan of Ole Miss Athletics and a strong supporter of the university, remaining very active in the Delta Gamma Sorority. After college, she was employed as a teacher at Lawhon School. She also was a faithful, lifelong member of the First Presbyterian Church (USA), where she taught Sunday School, led the Women of the Church, and had been president of the Women of the Church of the Presbytery of St. Andrew, her church's regional governing unit in northern Mississippi. She served as the first female director of the Community Development Foundation, president of the Prairie Girl Scout Council, and she led a special camp for handicapped children at Camp Tik A Witha. She was a 30-year director-emerita of the Tupelo Concert Association, which her late husband headed, and was co-chairman of its annual membership drive. In 1976, Mrs. Godwin was chairman of the extensive events planned and executed by the Tupelo Bicentennial Commission, an organization that oversaw celebration of the nation's 200th birthday in the city. She was president of the North Mississippi Medical Center Auxiliary and a fundraiser for hospital rooms given as memorials and a trustee of the hospital. In 1977, she was named, jointly with her husband, Tupelo Junior Auxiliary's "Citizen of the Year," generally considered the city's highest civic honor. She was a life member of the Tupelo Junior Auxiliary, Mutual Culture Club and member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and board member of the Mississippi Art Commission. Mrs. Godwin was nationally recognized for her work in civic beautification and environmental protection by HANDS and later served as the first chairman of the City Beautification Commission of Tupelo. She was strongly involved in the Tupelo Garden Club and The Garden Clubs of Mississippi, serving as past president of both clubs. She initiated the "Avenue of Magnolias" planting project in cooperation with the State Highway Department. Her efforts also led to the planning of a grove of trees in the 45-acre area at the interchange of U.S. Highway 45 and McCullough Boulevard in north Tupelo, being the driving force behind reintroduction of Tupelo Gum Tree, the tree for which Tupelo is named. Her beautification efforts included planting of little leaf lindens, which still grace downtown Tupelo's Main Street, the new entrance signs for the city, and ornamental plantings along the railroad tracks in the heart of downtown. She was dedicated to People Against Litter (PAL), and a lifetime member and founder of Keep Mississippi Beautiful, serving as first chairperson and board chairman for many years. Her effort to widely improve the appearance of public places and spaces led to nationwide honors and friendships. Her love for and advocacy of wildflower planting led to her introduction to the late first lady, Lady Bird Johnson, who was a nationwide advocate of wildflower propagation. Mrs. Godwin received the Mrs. Lyndon B. Johnson Award from the Keep America Beautiful national office. Keep America Beautiful later honored her for 50 years of service on behalf of its causes.

Services will be 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 18, 2012, at the First Presbyterian Church of Tupelo, with the Rev. Dr. Thomas P. Groome III and the Rev. Dr. Ron Richardson officiating. Burial will follow in Tupelo Memorial Cemetery. W.E. Pegues Funeral Directors are in charge of arrangements.

Survivors include her children [son Chauncey Rivers Godwin Jr. (Ann) and daughter Ann Godwin Monaghan (Gil), all of Tupelo]; five grandchildren [Chauncey Rivers Godwin III (Lindsey), John Philip Godwin (Mary), Andrew (Mac) McAllister Godwin (fiancé Sarra), Louise Nunley Gable (Michael) and William Jackson Nunley]; six great-grandchildren [Chauncey Rivers Godwin IV, Jude Garner Godwin, Evelyn Meade Godwin, John Philip Godwin Jr., Afton Louise Gable and Ella Michael Gable]; cousins [Margaret McVay Falk of Atlanta, Georgia and Sara McVay of Birmingham Alabama]; several cousins, nieces, nephews and loving caregivers.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Chauncey Rivers Godwin, Sr., and her parents, James Philip Nanney and Annie McAllister.

Pallbearers will be Chauncey Rivers Godwin III, John Philip Godwin, Andrew (Mac) McAllister Godwin, William Jackson Nunley, J. Michael Gable and Dr. J. Paul White.

Honorary pallbearers will be Dick Hill, Charles Johnston, Aubrey Patterson, Jack Reed Sr., David Baker, Boyd Yarbrough, Harry Martin, Greg Pirkle, Brian Steger, Former Governor William Winter, Robert Khayat, Barbara Dorr, Sarah Kountouris, Tom Robinson and Bill Lyle.

Visitation will be at the First Presbyterian Church sanctuary from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 17, 2012, and from 12:30 p.m. to service time Wednesday.

Memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 1725, Tupelo, MS. 38802, or Keep Mississippi Beautiful, 208 Key Drive Suite B, Madison, MS. 39110.

(Courtesy of First Presbyterian Church, Tupelo, MS)



Catherine Mae Harter McAllister -- 1929-2011

Catherine Mae Harter McAllister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: A09


Birth: 1 October 1929

Death: 2 November 2011


Catherine Mae (Harter) McAllister, 82, passed away peacefully Wednesday, November 2, 2011 at Carlisle Nursing Center.

She lived in Mount Carmel, SC, before retiring in 2005 to Covenant Way Retirement Center in Due West, SC.

Catherine attended Ninety Six public schools and graduated from Lander College with a degree in Elementary Education/Music.

She taught elementary grades in Sumter, SC, and Abbeville, SC, before raising her family in Mt. Carmel and helping to build the family's furniture, farm and forestry businesses.

Mrs. McAllister was preceded in death by her parents, Andy Wesley Harter and Rosa Mae (Harrison) Harter, husband, John Andrew McAllister, Sr., two infant sons, James Jones McAllister and Darrell Wesley McAllister.

Burial will be at Mount Carmel Cemetery, Mount Carmel, McCormick County, South Carolina, USA. Find A Grave Memorial# 79853259.



Janet McAllister Collier -- 1945-2011

janet mcallister collier photo

CMA Ancestral Line: J70


Birth: 13 May 1945

Death: 5 September 2011


Janet McAllister Collier of Fayetteville, died September 5, 2011 at home. She was born May 13, 1945 at Fayetteville City Hospital to Alonzo Dallas McAllister Junior and Virginia Porter McAllister. Janet was a member of First Christian Church of Fayetteville. During her life, Janet was an active volunteer and Board Member of the Boys Club in Fayetteville, a volunteer at the Rape Crisis Center, worked off and on at Collier Drug Store and as a legal secretary for her father at McAllister and Wade, Attorneys at Law. Janet enjoyed being a mother and loved attending her children's activities and events. As a life-hobby, Janet was an avid horse lover. Once the grandchildren were born, Janet threw herself into being Nana. The grandchildren LOVED their Nana! She was preceded in death by her father and many aunts and uncles. Janet is survived by the love of her life, husband of 46 years, Carl Melvin Collier, a son, Carl Melvin (Mel) Collier Junior, a daughter, Meredith Collier Dowse and her husband, Brant, her mother, Virginia Porter McAllister, her brother, Alonzo Dallas (Lonnie) McAllister 111, and four grandchildren, Hailey Vae and Katelyn Cartier Dowse, Christopher Carl and Jamie Grace Collier, all of Fayetteville. Cremation will be under the direction of Luginbuel Funeral Home of Prairie Grove. A celebration of Janet's life will be held Sunday, September 11 at Teatro Scarpino, 329 N West Avenue in Fayetteville, from 3-6 p.m. Memorials can be made to Washington Regional Hospice, 34 Colt Square Fayetteville, Ark. 72701.


(From the Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette – 7 September 2011)


NOTE: Janet McAllister Collier’s father was Alonzo Dallas, Jr. (J70-4-3-5-6-4-1) and her brother, is Alonzo Dallas III of Virginia, CMA member #46.



Delbert McAlister -- 1928-2011

Delbert McAlister photo

CMA Ancestral Line: S09


Birth: 25 July 1928

Death: 22 April 2011


McAlister, Delbert, "Dell," 82, passed away peacefully at Life Path Hospice house Friday night, April 22, 2011. Dell was a Tampa native. He was predeceased by his wife, Reva Kitchens McAlister, in 2001; his brothers, James and Forest; his sister, Elizabeth "Betty"; and by his parents, Asa and Julia McAlister. He is survived by his two sons, Scott (Jeanie) and Clay (Pam), as well as several nieces and nephews. Dell graduated from H.B. Plant High School in 1946, and from Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Fla., with a degree in agriculture. Before college, he enrolled in the army and served two years in Korea prior to the Korean War. He worked for Graybar in sales, but retired from TECO after many years. He was a member of Lakeland Lodge No. 91 F&AM and a plural member of Port Tampa Lodge No. 153 F&AM. He was a 50 year Mason and also a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason in the Valley of Tampa. He was a member of the Tampa Amateur Radio Club. His favorite hobby was talking on his ham radio. Dell spent hours listening and talking to various parts of the world. He also was very instrumental in the setting up of the radio room on the Victory ship, currently located in port at Channelside. Dell was a member of St. Andrews Episcopal Church and sang in the boy's choir as a teenager. Visitation will take place 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, at Blount Curry Funeral Home Carrollwood Chapel, 3207 W. Bearss Ave. The funeral will take place at 10 a.m. Thursday at St Andrews Episcopal Church at 501 N. Marion Street, Tampa. Interment will take place following the funeral at Garden of Memories Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to LifePath Hospice in Dell's name. Words of comfort may be expressed at www.blountcurry.com.

(Courtesy of Blount Curry Funeral Home)



Liddie S. McAlister - 1940-2010

Liddie S. McAlister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: A09; CMA Member Number: 1382


Birth: 1940

Death: 21 April 2010


Liddic S. McAlister, age 70, of Calvert City, Ky., died Wednesday, April 21, 2010, at Western Baptist Hospital in Paducah, Ky. She was a homemaker and member of Oak Valley Church of Christ.

She was the daughter of the late Morgan Rickman and Myrtle Angle Rickman of Benton, Ky.

She is survived by one daughter, Renae Beller, husband Ray, Calvert City, Ky.; one son, Mark McAlister, wife Velma, Benton, Ky.; two sisters, Linda Hurt, Benton, Ky., Jackie Rainey, Benton, Ky.; three brothers, Ronnie Rickman, Benton, Ky., Donald Rickman, wife Deb, Calvert City, Ky., Sam Rickman, Benton, Ky.; and two grandchildren, Katy Beller and Kacy Beller, both of Calvert City, Ky.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Vergil Ray McAlister.

Arrangements are being handled by Collier Funeral Home, P.O. Box 492. Benton, Ky. Funeral services will be at Collier Funeral Chapel at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 24, 2010, David Hendrickson officiating. Interment will be at New Hope Primitive Baptist Cemetery, Benton, Ky.

Friends may call between the hours of 4 and 9 p.m. on Friday.

Online guestbook may be found at collierfuneralhome.com.

(Courtesy of Collier Funeral Home)



Elizabeth (Betty) McAlister -- 1931-2009

Elizabeth McAlister photo

CMA Ancestral Line: S09


Birth: 13 June 1931

Death: 8 July 2009


McAlister, Elizabeth "Betty," 78, passed peacefully July 8, 2009 following a brief illness. She was sur-rounded by loving family. Our beloved Betty was a native of Tampa, a graduate of The University of Alabama, a member of Alpha Phi, and a member for many years of Pilot Club. She was predeceased by her parents and by two brothers, Forest and James. She is survived by many family members, including her brother, Del McAlister; his sons, Scott (Jeanie) and Clay (Pam); Molly, Carl, Tyler, and Riley Blanton-Wilson; Peg Blanton, and her daughters Gerhie Richardson (Marc), Lee Grizzard (Sandy) and Beth Blanton; Margaret Lane McAlister and her children, Margaret McAlister, Jimmy McAlister, Ernie McAlister, Lane McAlister, Mary Scaglione and Andy McAlister and their families; and cousins, Bert Roper and Mary Roper Engstrom of Winter Garden, Fla., and Jean McAlister Elrod of Orlando, Fla.; and many loving friends. There will be a visitation 4-6 p.m. Sunday, July 12, at Blount & Curry, on MacDill Ave. Memorial services will be at 3 p.m., Monday, July 13, at Hyde Park Presbyterian Church, 1309 Swann Ave., Tampa. Family members and friends are invited to gather immediately following services at the home of Lee and Sandy Grizzard to celebrate Betty's life. Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made in her memory to LifePath Hospice of Hillsborough, 3010 W. Azeele St., Tampa. Please sign the online guestbook at www. blountcurrymacdill.com.

(Courtesy of Blount Curry Funeral Home)



Vergil Ray McAlister - 1938-2009

Vergil Ray McAlister Photo

CMA Ancestral Line: A09; CMA Member Number: 1382


Birth: 1938

Death: 24 April 2009


Vergil Ray McAlister, 71, of Benton, KY died Friday, April 24,2009, at 7:58 a.m. at his residence. He was a member of the Oak Valley Church of Christ. He served in the United States Air Force. He was also a member of the Briensburg Masonic Lodge No. 401.

He is survived by his wife, Liddie Rickman McAlister. Mr. McAlister is also survived by one daughter, Renae Beller and husband Ray of Calvert City; one son, Mark McAlister and wife Velma of Benton; one sister, Joyce Simpson of Moore; one brother, Charles D. McAlister of Jones, Okla.; and two grand children, Katy Beller and Kacy Beller, both of Calvert City.

Mr. McAlister was preceded in death by one sister, Mary Ann Means. His parents were Claude McAlister and Beulah Bryant McAlister.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday in the Collier Funeral Chapel with David Hendrickson officiating. Interment will be at New Hope Primitive Baptist Cemetery in Benton.

Friends may call from 5 until 8 p.m. Sunday, April 26, 2009, at Collier Funeral Home. Masonic Rites will be held Sunday, April 26, 2009 at 7 p.m. in the Chapel of the Collier Funeral Home. The public is invited to attend.

Online condolences may be sent to collierfuneralhome.com.

(Courtesy of Collier Funeral Home)



Mary Jane McAlister -- 1925-2009

Mary Jane McAlister

CMA Ancestral Line: J01


Birth: 4 November 1925

Death: 12 January 2009


Mary Jane McAlister, 83, Greenwood, Indiana, passed away peacefully Monday, January 12, 2009 at Community Hospital South, Indianapolis. Mary was born November 4, 1925 in Kokomo, Indiana. She was married to Frank C. McAlister (J01) for 65 years after being high school sweethearts for five years. Mrs. McAlister was a resident of Greenwood Village South where she enjoyed art, euchre, bingo, and shuffleboard. She was a DAR, Beta Sigma Phi, and "PHT". A graduate of University Beauty College and a beautician for 15 years. She was ribbon winning oil painting artist and winemaker. Mary and Frank were avid travelers and enjoyed trips to Ireland, Alaska, Germany, Switzerland, and South America. When they were not traveling you could find them at Indiana University football and basketball games, Survivors include here loving husband, Frank; son, Mark of Bloomington and Hilton Head, NC; daughter, Susan of Indianapolis; four grandchildren, Daniel, Leith, Brand, and James; and a great grandson, Jax.

Services:11 A.M., Thursday, January 15, 2009 at Wilson St. Pierre Funeral Service and Crematory, Greenwood Chapel, 481 W. Main St., Greenwood, Indiana 46142 with Chaplain Joanna Morse Lekberg officiating. Entombment will follow in Forest Lawn Memory Gardens Mausoleum, Greenwood, Indiana.



Lois Mildred Hartwick -- 1924-2008

Lois Mildred Hartwick

CMA Ancestral Line: J02; CMA Member Number: 5


Birth: 15 July 1924

Death: 14 August 2008


Lois M. Hartwick of England, AR went into the arms of the Savior August 14, 2008 at Springhill Baptist Hospital in North Little Rock, AR from complications following open-heart surgery. She was born July 15, 1924 to Ira and Myrtle Rogers McAlister. She was married to Amon D. Hartwick on March 8, 1945. They were blessed to be together 63 years.

Lois graduated from England High School and earned her teaching degree from Arkansas State Teachers College in 1958. She began her teaching career at Central High School near England. She taught for many years in the England Public School System. In 1970 she helped establish the England Academy where she taught until her retirement in 1976.

Lois was charter member #5 of Clan McAlister of America. She is indexed in the J02 ancestral line of the CMA database. She served on the first Board of Directors of the Clan McAlister of America from 1990 to 1996. During the first few years as a Board member she worked closely with Paul Towry, the founder of Clan McAlister of America and was instrumental in the organizational growth of the CMA. Her favorite job at the CMA gatherings was registrar. She loved to sit at the registration desk to meet and greet her CMA cousins.

Lois was a member of the first united Methodist Church in England but attended Landmark Baptist Church in England. She was preceded in death by her parents and her son Roger A. Hartwick Her survivors are her husband, her son Grady Hartwick and his wife Lisa; daughter-in-law Kim Hartwick Rowe; grandsons Jeremy and Justin Hartwick all of England; a granddaughter Heather Miller of Ohio; a great grandson, Carter Alan Hartwick of Sheridan and her sister Rhea M. Perry of England.

Funeral services will be at Landmark Baptist Church Sunday, August 17 at 2:00 P.M. by Bro. David Jimerson. Visitation will be Saturday, August 16 from 6-8 P.M. at Roller England Funeral Home (501) 842-3939.


The family request that memorials be sent to Landmark Baptist Church, P O Box 177, England, AR 72046.



Sybert Maurice McAllister -- 1925-2008

Sybert Maurice McAllister

Birth: 23 June 1925

Death: 18 March 2008


Hartselle, AL
Funeral for Sybert Maurice McAllister, 82, of Hartselle will be Thursday, March 20, 2008, at 7 p.m. at Bethel Baptist Church with the Rev. David Gamble officiating and Hartselle Heritage Funeral Home directing. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. prior to the service.

Graveside service will be Friday at 3 p.m. at Big Creek United Methodist Church Cemetery in Dothan with Dr. Steve Hankins officiating.

Mr. McAllister, who died Tuesday, March 18, 2008, at Decatur General Hospital, was born June 23, 1925, in Malvern to Dorman Sybert McAllister and Dixie Bell McAllister. He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church. He was a veteran of World War II and the Korean Conflict, where he served in the U.S. Army. He was retired from Goodyear Service Stores after 33 years.

He is survived by his wife, Jeanette McAllister; two sons, Dale (Carolyn) McAllister of Hamilton, Ohio, and Bruce (Ellen) McAllister of Taylor, S.C.; sister, Mary Jo Dunning of Beaufort, S.C.; sister-in-law, Shirley McAllister of Dothan; and six grandchildren, Brannon, Shayne, Kellie, Karis, Marilyn and Nancy. The family request memorials be made to Bethel Baptist Church Building Fund, Baptist World Missions, Bob Jones University or Gideons Bible Fund.

Published in the Decatur Daily on 3/19/2008.



James R. McAlister -- 1938-2007

James R. McAlister

Birth: 22 March 1938

Death: 9 November 2007


James R. McAlister (Jim), 69, of Jonesboro, Arkansas and Charlevoix, Michigan, went to be with his Lord November 9th, 2007 at Saint Bernard's Medical Center in Jonesboro. He was born in Detroit, Michigan on March 22, 1938, the fourth child of the late James R. McAlister, Sr. and Anna Stein McAlister. The family moved to Marine City, Michigan in 1950 where heCity High School in 1956. He earned a Civil Engineering degree from Michigan Tech after which he was commissioned into the United States Air Force at James Connelly AFB in Waco, Texas. While in Waco, he met Gloria Bradley of Jonesboro, who was attending Baylor University. They were married Sept. 24th, 1961 at Walnut Street Baptist Church in Jonesboro.

Survivors include his wife of 46 years, Gloria Bradley McAlister, daughters: Kelly (Rabbi Aaron) Spiegel of Indianapolis, Indiana, Allison (Tyler) Burchyett of Hernando, Mississippi, and son Craig McAlister of Jonesboro. Five grandchildren: Hannah, Eli and Gabe Spiegel of Indianapolis and Barrett and Baylee Burchyett of Hernando. He is survived by two sisters: Patricia (Hank) Marwin of Troy, Michigan and Mary Lou (Mike) Moore of Grosse Pointe, Michigan; sister-in-law, Barbara (Edgar) Currier of Lakeland, Tennessee, and mother-in-law Helen Bradley, Jonesboro. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Anna McAlister, step-mother, Alma McAlister, sister, Betty Hill, brother, Bill McAlister, and father-inlaw, Doug Bradley.

Jim retired from the Air Force as a Lt. Col. in 1981. During his 21 year career, he served two tours during the Vietnam War, earning the Bronze Star, the Defense Meritorious Service Metal, the Air Force Meritorious Service Metal, the Vietnam Gallantry Cross, and several other medals and awards. He was a Command Navigator with over 4300 hours of fl ight time in the B-52 aircraft.

In 1981, the family moved to Jonesboro where he served as a Senior Vice President of Citizens Bank. He also taught business classes at Williams Baptist College in Walnut Ridge. He was an active member of and past president of the University Heights Lions Club. He held membership in local service organizations including the Chamber of Commerce, the Retired Offi cers Assoc, the American Legion, and the Disabled American Veterans. A long time member of Walnut Street Baptist Church, he served as an Adult Sunday School teacher as well as a member of the Finance Committee and the Sanctuary Choir. The family moved to Fort Worth, Texas in 1988 where Jim was employed with General Dynamics as a Specialist in the Advanced Products Division.

He earned an M.A. in Operational Management from Central Michigan University in 1973, an MBA from Arkansas State University in 1988, professional degrees from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, Air Command and Staff College, Squadron Officer's School and the Stonier School of Banking in New Jersey.

There will be a Memorial Service to celebrate Jim's life on Tuesday, Nov. 13 at 5:30 pm at Walnut Street Baptist Church, Jonesboro. Burial will be at Arlington National Cemetery, Washington D.C. A Memorial Service will be held at the Charlevoix Reformed Church in MI at a later date.

Honorary Pall Bearers will be members of Ron Hatley's Sunday School Class and the University Heights Lions Club. Those wishing to leave a lasting memorial may choose the building fund at Walnut Street Baptist Church, 1910 Scenic Dr., Jonesboro, AR 72401, the Gideon's Bible Society, P. O. Box 4002 Jonesboro, AR 72403, or the charity of your choice.



John Andrew McAlister -- 1928-2007

John Andrew McAlister

CMA Ancestral Line: A09


Birth: 25 December 1928

Death: 23 July 2007


John Andrew McAllister, 78, the only child of the late Elizabeth Jones and Darrell McAllister of Mt. Carmel, died peacefully at the Abbeville Area Medical Center, July 23, 2007.

Born on Dec. 25, 1928, he lived most of his life in Mt. Carmel, retiring in 2005 to the Due West Retirement Center. He attended Calhoun Falls public schools and graduated from Calhoun Falls High School in 1945 with perfect attendance all 12 years. He entered Clemson University after graduation but left shortly after his freshman year when his father died, and he returned home to help his mother operate the family business that was established in 1888 by his grandfather, John A. McAllister. The business grew to include a retail furniture store, cattle and timber farm with numerous real estate holdings. Through his public service, devotion to conservation and economic development in rural communities, he distinguished himself in numerous industries.

He was the Mayor of Mt. Carmel for more than 30 years. Most notably, he was a founder of the West Carolina Rural Telephone Cooperative in 1952 where he served as president for almost 54 years. Upon his retirement in 2006, he was elected President Emeritus. He served many leadership roles in this industry including the Board of National Telephone Cooperative Association and was awarded NTCA's Lifetime Achievement Award in February 2001. He was also named a charter member of the USDA Rural Telephone Bank Board in 1971 and continued serving for more than 35 years. He served as the Chairman of the Savannah Valley Authority, which spearheaded the development of Savannah Lakes Village. He also served as Chairman of the Upper Savannah Council of Governments. His outstanding work earned him the first SC Economic Development Association's Lifetime Service Award in 1989, and in 1992 the National Association of Development Organizations named him the Outstanding Board Member. The Old Ninety-Six Tourism Commission honored him for his accomplishments in economic development in the Piedmont area.

Mr. McAllister was a member of the South Carolina Forestry Commission. His lifelong commitment as a steward of the land earned him the State Conservationist of the Year Award, the Tree Farmer of the Year in South Carolina, the SC Forestry Association's 1996 Charles H. Flory Distinguished Service Award and a 35-year pin of service from the McCormick County Soil and Water Conservation District. He was also recognized numerous times by SC Wildlife Federation and SC Land Resources Commission, and served on the RC&D Council. He served as Chairman of the John de la Howe School Board of Trustees, member of the McCormick County Arts Council and the MACK Foundation. He also served on the Board of Trustees at Erskine College, Board of Visitors and National Alumni Council at Clemson University, and Parents Council at Converse College. He is Director Emeritus for Piedmont Technical College Foundation and was awarded the Presidential Medallion for Distinguished Service. He was also on the Drummond Center Board of Directors. In 1986, Gov. Richard Riley awarded him the Order of Palmetto, the highest service award given to a private citizen in South Carolina. He was bestowed with an honorary degree Doctor of Humanities from Erskine College in 1989 and an honorary degree Doctor of Laws from Clemson University in 1990. Based on his lifelong support of the Boy Scouts of America, he was the recipient of the Silver Beaver Award, the highest volunteer citation given by Scouting.

He was instrumental in the organization of the Willington-Mt. Carmel Volunteer Fire Department. He was also a member of the Calhoun Falls Lions Club, a lifetime member of Calhoun Falls Masonic Lodge No. 283, and a charter member to the Mt. Carmel Yacht Club. He served as an elder of the Abbeville-Mt. Carmel Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two infant sons: James Jones McAllister and Darrell Wesley McAllister. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Catherine Mae Harter formerly of Ninety-Six; son John A. McAllister Jr., and wife Carolyn C. Matthews of Columbia; son T. Edwin McAllister and partner Paul Meyer of Washington DC; daughter Cathy M. Watson and husband, J. Calhoun Watson of Columbia; son Westley D. McAllister, and wife Angel. F. McAllister of Mt. Carmel; and daughter Mary S. McAllister of Columbia. He leaves behind grandchildren: Anne Leigh and Sarah Elizabeth McAllister of Shelbyville, Ky.; Catherine Tatum Watson, Joseph Calhoun ("Jay") Watson, Jr., Elizabeth Kirkland ("Bess") Watson of Columbia, Thomas Edwin McAllister of Anderson, Charles Jacob (Jake) McAllister of Mt. Carmel and Austin A. Bruner and husband Collin Bruner of Charleston. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday, July 26, 2007 at 2:00 from the Due West A.R.P. Church, Due West, SC, with the Dr. Rev. Randle T. Ruble and Rev. Lee P. Kennerly officiating.

The burial will follow in the Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Hwy 81, Mt. Carmel, SC. The family will receive friends at the Bowie Art Center 2 Bonner Street, Due West from 5:00 until 8:00 PM on Wednesday, July 25, 2007. Mr. McAllister's body is at the Chandler-Jackson Funeral Home 208 South Main St. Abbeville, SC, where he will be available for viewing from noon until 8:00 P.M. Wednesday evening. The family is at the home of Ed McAllister Main St. Mt. Carmel, SC. Pallbearers are Ernie Segars of Laurens, Dave Herron and Mack Beaty of Abbeville, John Shiflet of York, Mike Copeland of Columbia, Moses Gray and Mike Fowler of Mt. Carmel, and Jennings McAbee of McCormick. Honorary Pallbearers are Board of Directors and employees of West Carolina Rural Telephone Cooperative. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to: Foundation for Rural Service, 4121 Wilson Blvd., Tenth Floor Arlington, VA 22203.



William C. (Bill) Vincent -- 1931-2007

William Carroll Vincent

CMA Ancestral Line: A17; CMA Member Number: 793


Birth: 12 January 1931

Death: 30 May 2007


On May 30, 2007, WILLIAM CARROLL VINCENT, born 12 Jan 1931, beloved husband of Donna Jean Vincent (nee Secrest), beloved father of Eugenie Vincent, Tamara Vincent Joyce, Gloria Sanders, Catherine Gibbany, William Gosnell, Jr., Daniel and John Gosnell, loving grandfather of William and McAlister Joyce, Tim Sanders, Sarah Nicole and Coulter Gibbany, Kevin, Tyler, Amber, Julia and Brandon Gosnell.

Friends may call at the family-owned Ruck Towson Funeral Home, Inc., 1050 York Road (beltway exit 26A) Saturday 7 to 9 P.M., and Sunday 3 to 5 P.M. Family and friends are to gather on the Ruck Towson parking lot by 10:30 A.M. Monday for a funeral procession to Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens and an 11 A.M. graveside service. The family suggest memorial contributions in William's name to the St. Andrew's Society of Baltimore, P.O. Box 4114, Timonium, MD, 21093.

Published in the Baltimore Sun on 6/1/2007.

Webmaster wrote: "Bill Vincent was a good friend of mine. He was an inveterate optimist. He openly and genuinely loved. He made me feel good when I was with him; he made me feel like I mattered. His gentle demeanor and his excellent ability as a raconteur will be missed."

Cindy McAlister Bresson wrote: "It saddens me to report that the Clan McAlister has lost another loyal member and hard-working researcher. Bill Vincent died on May 30, 2007 just a few days after attending the wedding of a granddaughter, where he is said to have danced with all the pretty girls. Bill was a big man, not just in stature, but also in intellect and in ability. Bill had a big love for his family, a big heart, and a big interest in all things Scottish. After retiring from a career in law and real estate investments, Bill turned his efforts to researching the history of the McAlister family in Scotland. He was generous with his time, his friendship, his resources and played a large roll in amassing a huge data base of Scottish records. Over the past two years he spent many hours in his home office serving as Query Editor for the Clan McAlister journal. Among Bill's hobbies, besides genealogy, were running his sailboat on Chesapeake Bay, golf, traveling, and keeping track of his grandkids. He also liked to sing opera and enjoyed a good joke. When the CMA met in Washington D.C. in 2000, several of us one evening visited an area of Georgetown right on the Potomac River. On meeting some exchange students from Romania, Bill tried to convince the students he was a yacht captain and offered to take them for a ride on his yacht. If you never had the chance to see Bill Vincent in authentic regalia (including the McAlister tartan kilt), with his full head of thick white hair, a beaming smile on his face, and holding forth with some ridiculous line of pure blarney, you have missed quite an experience. Bill, my friend, our time together was entirely too short and you will be sorely missed. I am sure that you and Arlington Bob have already gotten together and are busy terrorizing any Campbells you can find!"



Stan Carroll -- 1935-2005

Stan Carroll

Birth: 31 August 1935

Death: 27 December 2005


Stanley Neal Carroll was born Aug. 31, 1935 and died Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2005. He was 70 years of age.

He was a graduate of Georgia Institute of Technoloby, and was employed as an aerospace engineer at NASA. He was active in the Genealogy Committee of the CMA and provided considerable assistance converting GEDCOM files into a format suitable for the CMA database. He was consistently chipper, helpful and a good friend.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Carroll (Oct 2003, we think) of cancer also. Survivors include daughter, Beverly C. Naylor of Huntsville; two grandchildren, Megan Eckard and Ross Naylor of Huntsville; sister, Betty Jo Parsons of Bowdon, GA., brother, Charles E. Carroll of Bremen, GA., and several nieces and nephews. (Click on image to right.)

Visitation will be held from noon to 2 p.m. today at Berryhill Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Mike Calvert officiating. Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or your favorite charity.



Robert M. McAllister -- 1923-2005

Robert M. McAllister

CMA Ancestral Line: J26; CMA Member Number 142


Birth: 14 February 1923

Death: 19 December 2005


Robert M. McAllister, our "Arlington Bob", former CMA Historian, Genealogist, past President, J26 Line Coordinator, Secretary, Query Editor and frequent speaker and genealogy room greeter and host at Clan gatherings, died suddenly December 19, 2005 in Washington, DC. Bob died of a heart attack while recovering from his fifth cancer operation. A mass of Resurrection was held at his Episcopal parish church in Washington, D.C. where he had been active as a lector for many years. His interment was at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors. Bob was a retired USAF Lt. Colonel, having served during WWII in the China-Burma-India Theater and at many other stations thereafter as an intelligence officer.

Bob hosted a popular weekly Fairfax County (VA) television series called "Out of the Past", a documentary program where he interviewed primarily WWII veterans about their experiences during that historical time period in order that their accomplishments and sacrifices would be known to later generations. He also helped keep the oral history alive as the primary organizer for the Military History Society of Northern Virginia that met every two weeks, providing a forum for shared experiences and new discovery. A very modest man, it was learned at his wake that he had been cited by President Clinton for his volunteer work as a docent at the Old Executive Office Building near the White House as well as at the Smithsonian Museum of American History. Shortly before his final operation he was among several journalists and historians, including Walter Cronkite, who were panelists at the National Press Club commemoration of war correspondents.

Born 14 February 1923, Bob's first five years were spent in Danville and Richmond, Virginia before the family moved to Brooklyn. A serious and accomplished student, Bob attended the demanding Brooklyn Technical High School. After graduation and trying a few jobs, he enrolled North Carolina State in Raleigh, until his studies were interrupted by his call to service in April 1943. After military service Bob enrolled in the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, where he met Mary Ellen. She majored in Chemistry and Bob in European History. Their graduation was in June 1949, and they were married in Savannah, Georgia, Mary Ellen's home town 26 July 1949.

Bob was in the US Army Signal Corps for three years during World War II, including eighteen months in China, Burma and India. Bob accepted a regular commission in the US Air Force in July, 1949. His Air Force assignments included three years in England, and two years in Germany. During his seventeen years in the Air Force, Bob was an intelligence officer with the Strategic Air Command.

Bob was a member (#142) of CMA since 1991, and was appointed Clan Historian in July 1993. His line designator is J26, meaning that he is descended from James McAlister of Tryon / Lincoln County, North Carolina. He was a frequent contributor of articles that he had researched and written for the Mac-Alasdair Clan and the Clan web page. As the primary contact for incoming queries from the CMA web page, Bob corresponded with hundreds of people who were seeking information on their McAlister background.

Bob's genealogical interests led to many positions of service to numerous organizations, and also enabled many new acquaintances to get to know him as a friend. He was a member of the Board of Directors of the North Carolina Scottish Heritage Society and an occasional popular lecturer at their annual symposiums in Laurinburg, NC. He was vitally interested in the history and genealogy of the Clan McAlister and developed a database he called "MAC1" containing McAlisters that trace back to Somerled in the 13th century from seven different traditional sources. It was his goal to expand the clan genealogy and connect CMA lines to their Scottish ancestors as well as document as much of his MAC1 as possible. He was an early and regular contributor to the Scottish Research Project (SRP) which is a group of McAlister researchers who garner source and other reliable Scottish genealogical records of McAlisters for a searchable digital database, and two days before his death, he talked of committing more time to the project when he was fully recovered.

On several occasions he worked with others in a team effort to access and copy all the genealogical materials concerning McAlisters in the Library of Congress and certain military records at the National Archives. He was also active in the National Genealogical Society and was a Trustee for the historical Arlington, VA Public Library which houses extensive genealogical and historically significant collections.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Ellen and was extremely proud of their loving family including daughter Vicky; son Robert, Jr. and daughter-in-law Debbie; and grandchildren Audrey, Emily Jane, and Paul.



Jessie Faye Jamison Lane -- 1928-2005

Fay Lane

Birth: 1928

Death: 18 June 2005


Jessie Faye Jamison Lane, 77, of Jefferson City, Tennessee passed away after a brief illness on June 18, 2005 at her home. Visitation for family and friends will be at Forest Hill East Funeral Home from 6 p.m. on Tuesday, June 21, 2005.

Funeral Services will be held at White Station Church of Christ, 1106 Colonial, at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 22, 2005. Interment following the services will be at Forest Hill East Cemetery at 2440 Whitten.

Originally from Jonesboro, Arkansas, she was a former resident of Memphis where she taught first grade for 21 years at Sea Isle Elementary School and the University of Memphis Campus School. She was also Principal of Richland Elementary School in Memphis from 1976 until her retirement in 1985. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Harding College in Searcy, Arkansas and her Masters of Science in Education degree from the University of Memphis.

Mrs. Lane was active in genealogy and was past president of the McAllister Family Society of America. She was also a member of Clan Gunn and Clan MacLean. She was active with the Association for the Preservation of Tennessee Antiquities and served as a volunteer at the Glenmore Victorian Mansion in Jefferson City. She attended Laurel Church of Christ in Knoxville and was formerly a member of White Station Church of Christ in Memphis.

She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Robert W. Lane and her son, O. Kirk Lane of Jefferson City and her daughter, Lea Ann Lane Flatt, of Memphis. She is also survived by four grandchildren, Lindsey Jean Lane, of Memphis, and Robert Houston Lane, of Jefferson City, and Jonathon Thomas Flatt and Katherine Elizabeth Flatt, of Memphis, and numerous nieces and nephews.



Fred Ranson McAlister, Jr. -- 1927-2004

Fred Ranson McAlister, Jr.

CMA Ancestral Line: A09


Birth: 7 October 1927

Death: 15 February 2004


The Reverend Fred Ranson McAlister, Jr. (A09) 76, of Charlotte, died Sunday, February 15, 2004 following a lengthy illness. He was born October 7, 1927 in Union, SC and was the son of the late Rev. Fred R. McAlister and Estelle Haile McAlister. His grandfather was Jesse Newton McAlister (A09-2-1-5-2) and his gread-grandparents were Obediah Bowen and Elmira Adams McAlister (A09-2-1-5).

He was a graduate of Central High School in Charlotte and Davidson College. He received his Master of Divinity from Columbia Theological Seminary and his Master of Theology from Princeton University Theological School.

After pastorates at Linwood Presbyterian Church in Gastonia, NC and Philadelphia Presbyterian Church in Atlanta, GA, he entered the United States Navy as a Chaplain. He rose to the rank of Captain before his retirement in July of 1975. His 20 years of service in the Navy was varied and distinguished. Among others, his tours of duty included one with the U.S. Marine Corps at Parris Island, SC, with Destroyer Squadron 36, and at the Naval Air Station in Atsugi, Japan. Rev. McAlister also served with the Third Marine Division at Camp Carroll in Vietnam in 1968-69. He served as Director of the Senior Chaplain School in Newport, RI. After his retirement from the Navy, he spent two years as Associate Presbyter for Christian Education with the Mecklenburg Presbytery. He was called to be senior pastor at Third Presbyterian Church in Charlotte and remained there until his retirement in 1991. He joyfully agreed to be Parish Associate in Westminster Presbyterian Church and after four years accepted the same position at Philadelphia Presbyterian Church in Mint Hill, NC, where he had spent his childhood. Ill health forced Rev. McAlister into another retirement in 2001. In the words of the late Rev. Jennings Reed, long time friend and golf partner, "Fred McAlister was a unique and multi-talented individual whom the Lord had richly blessed in ministry. He was an outstanding Presbyter, serving on almost every committee of Presbytery, on council and as moderator. He often served as pastor's pastor and was recognized for his ability to bring reconciliation where it was needed." He was both a dispenser and collector of hugs and he endeared himself to members of congregations through his love, empathy, and compassion.

Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Lillian Burkhalter McAlister; daughters, Louise O'Shea and her husband, Thomas, of Greensboro, NC, and Mary Beth Brown and her husband, David, of Raleigh, NC; son, Andrew McAlister of Charlotte, NC; seven grandchildren, Aaron Brown, Jordan Brown, Anna-Margaret Brown, Ryan O'Shea, Kevin O'Shea, Meaghan O'Shea, and Kyle McAlister; and sister, Ann McAlister Fee. Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Wednesday, February 18, 2004 at Philadelphia Presbyterian Church, 11501 Bain School Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227 with the Reverend Ken Craig, Reverend Bob James, Reverend Charles Kirkpatrick and Reverend Joseph Welker officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday, February 17, 2004 from 6:30-8:30 PM at McEwen Funeral Service, Mint Hill Chapel.

Memorials may be made to Hospice at Charlotte, 1420 E. 7th Street, Charlotte, NC 28204 or to Philadelphia Presbyterian Church, 11501 Bain School Road, Charlotte, NC 28227.

Arrangements by McEwen Funeral and Cremation Services, Mint Hill Chapel.



Teddy Kent McAlister -- 1923-2004

Teddy Kent McAlister

CMA Ancestral Line: AM01


Birth: 18 December 1923

Death: 16 January 2004


Teddy Kent McAlister (AM01-B-6-1) passed away on January 16, 2004 in Aurora, CO. He was buried in the Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, CO. He had been in poor health for the last few years. Ted McAlister was born in Wattis, Carbon, Co., Utah on December 18, 1923. Together with his first wife Barbara Joy Carlson McAlister, Ted spent much time and money in the 1980's in Kintyre, Scotland, researching our Scottish Macalister ancestors. The studies that Capt. Ian MacDonald wrote for Ted comprise much of our knowledge of these early families and our connection to them. During a visit to Salt Lake City by the CMA Genealogist, Ted assisted in retrieving many McAlister records from the Mormon Church archives, which filled in significant gaps in the CMA computer data base. Many members of the Clan McAlister of America remember Ted's warmth and humor and his wearing of the kilt and his green leprachaun suit in past Gatherings. Very few members loved the CMA more. Few gave it as much love and enthusiasm. We will miss him.



Vera M. Harrell -- 1903-2004

VERA M. HARRELL

Birth: 27 January 1903

Death: 9 January 2004


Ada Evening News, Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2004
Vera M. Harrell, Mobile, Ala.


Services for Vera M. Harrell, 100, of Mobile, Ala., formerly of Ada, Okla., are 11 a.m. Friday at St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Ada, the Rev. John D. Norvell officiating, with burial following at Rosedale Cemetery, Ada.

Mrs. Harrell died Jan. 9, 2004, at a Mobile, Ala. assisted living facility. She was born Jan. 27, 1903, at Earlsboro, Indian Territory, to Dr. Elisha R. and Stella Mae Murray McAlister. The family moved to Seminole in 1911 and she grew up there. She moved to Ada to teach at East Central State Teacher's College. She married Lowrey H. Harrell in 1930. He died Dec.19, 1955. She was a longtime active member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church.

Survivors include five grandchildren, Charlotte Harrell Kaufman and husband Houston, Chris Harrell and wife Kim, Marc Harrell, Dr. Jullette Moran Saussy, and Allison Moran Castle and her husband, Wilson; a daughter-in-law, Katherine Harrell; and seven great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, a son, James Harrell, a daughter, Jane Harrell Moran, and a sister, Veva Duffer.

The family says those who wish may make memorials to St. Luke's Episcopal Church, P.O. Box B, Ada, OK, or a charity of choice. Criswell Funeral Home, Ada



Louis F. McAlister -- 1928-2003

Louis F. McAlister

CMA Ancestral Line: E01


Birth: 11 January 1928

Death: 4 December 2003


Born 11 Jan 1928, died 4 December 2003, married Helen Catherine Forester in Pine Bluff, AR, 19 Aug 1946, E01-4-1-3-3.

Louis F. McAlister, age 75, of Little Rock went to be with his Lord on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2003. He was born on Jan. 11, 1928, in Pine Bluff, Ark., a son of the late Will and Minerva Spires McAlister.

He was also preceded in death by one brother, Willie Lee (Bill) McAlister, and one sister, Mary Lee King. In 1946, he began his career with Southwestern Bell as an unlocated lineman and retired as a district manager in 1984 with 37 years of service. He was an active member of Telephone Pioneers of America.

Louis was the founder and leader of a Telephone Pioneers of America volunteer group, building wheelchair ramps for the handicapped. In 1988 he was asked initially to design and build ramps at 19 homes in Pulaski County. He recruited a dedicated group of Telephone Pioneers and the group built over 900 ramps in Pulaski County over the past 15 years and they have a growing back-log of work. The wheelchair access program which he started in Little Rock is believed to be the first of its kind in the United States and has been the subject of numerous newspaper, magazine, and television stories. The program's success led to Mr. McAlister helping to organize and train groups nationwide in various cities. He was named the National Telephone Pioneers of America Volunteer of the Year, and received numerous other awards throughout his career.

His volunteerism also benefited Habitat for Humanity, Race for the Cure, Aldersgate Fish Fry, and many other projects.

He was a lifelong and dedicated Presbyterian and was an Elder of Second Presbyterian Church in Little Rock and was active in various ministries throughout the Presbytery. He was a United States Army veteran of World War II. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Helen Forester McAlister; daughter, Cathy McAlister; sons, Louis Jr. and wife Kathy, Michael and wife Susan, all of Little Rock; sister, Frances Sue Mahan and husband Delton of Cleburn, Texas; grandchildren, James Poe and wife Beca of Fayetteville, Jett, Colin, Schuyler, Grace, Stuart, and Catie McAlister, Allison and Emily Rose Prigmore, all of Little Rock; one greatgrandson, Logan Poe; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2003, at Second Presbyterian Church in Little Rock with The Reverend Steve Hancock officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12 at 14 Cascade Drive, Little Rock (228-5147 ).

In lieu of flowers, lasting memorials may be made to Second Presbyterian Church, 600 Pleasant Valley Drive, Little Rock, Ark., 72227; or Arkansas Hospice, 5600 W. 12th St., Little Rock, Ark., 72204. Cremation arrangements were with Roller-Chenal Funeral Home (224-8300) assisting.

Obituary forwarded by J.A. McAlister, December 7, 2003



Bobbye McAlister Arnold -- 1928-2003

Bobbye Ann Arnold

CMA Ancestral Line: WC01


Birth: June 1928

Death: April 2003


Born June 1928, died April 2003, married William Joshua Arnold, 12 April 1952, WC01-1-4-7-4-1

BATESVILLE, AR - Bobbye McAlister Arnold, 74, of Batesville died Saturday at her home. She was born June 8, 1928, in Russellville to Robert W. and Anna Wells McAlister. Mrs. Arnold was a homemaker and a member of the First United Methodist Church in Batesville. She was a former President of the United Methodist Women and a member of the Arnold-Stokes UMW Circle. She was a graduate of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, a member of the Beta Sigma Phi sorority and a former Home Extension Agent with the University of Arkansas for Independence County. Mrs. Arnold was also the President of Clan McAlister, Inc. and a Democratic Party Central Committeewoman for 33 years. She was a member of the Independence County Hospice Program.

Mrs. Arnold is survived by two children, Blair Arnold of Batesville and Beth Arnold Morgan of Little Rock, and her mother. Also Surviving her are five grandchildren: Blair Danielle Graves, Bret Christiana Graves, William Allen Arnold, Elizabeth Louise Arnold, and Jacob Paul Arnold.

A visitation will be held Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Roller-Crouch Funeral Home. The funeral service will be Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church with the Rev. LaVon Post officiating. Burial will follow in Oaklawn Cemetery under the direction of Roller-Crouch Funeral Home of Batesville. (870) 793-4161.

From Arkansas Democrat/Gazette, April 8, 2003



Rose Beatrice (Dawson) Dykes -- 1921-2003

Rose Dykes

CMA Ancestral Line: C01


Birth: 26 January 1921

Death: 22 April 2003


Born 26 January 1921, Baltimore, MD, died 22 April 2003, married Woodrow Dykes 26 June 1939, C01-3-3-1-6-2-2-1

BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD - Rose Dykes died this evening after a long battle with congestive heart failure. It seems like a lifetime ago that I first met Rose in 1979 when she asked me, a first term legislator, to help her to get a resolution passed declaring "Scleroderma Awareness Week" to bring public recognition to the disease that was devastating her husband, Woody. Thus began a wonderful friendship that lasted twenty-four years. Rose had more than her share of pain and disappointments, but she was always smiling and always ready to lend a helping hand.

Over the years, we worked together on many projects in the community and for the Republican party. One of her proudest accomplishments was getting a public library for the Hereford Community. She was a dedicated member of the DAR and insisted on me getting my paperwork completed. She worked with determination to have a stream on her farm named in state land records after her husband. It is now officialy called Dykes Creek.

Rose baked hundreds of cakes for church events and for Republican Club meetings. The Northern Baltimore County Republican and Civic Association recognized her as the Republican of the Year.

In each of my campaigns, she was a constant fixture in my campaign office, driving faithfully from her home in Northern Baltimore County. When the torch passed to Bob Ehrlich, she worked tirelessly for his Gubernatorial campaign too. Even when she was in a wheelchair and dragging an oxygen tank, nothing would keep Rose down.

Rose was one of a kind, always doing for others, asking for nothing in return. If she believed in you, she was your friend for life. Her courage in adversity was never dimmed. It is said that no one grows old living a number of years. People grow old by deserting their ideals. Rose Dykes never grew old!

Her community, her church, her family, and her friends will always be the richer for having known her. More information

Obituary written by: Ambassador Ellen R. Sauerbrey, United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, Baldwin, MD.



Altha Margaret (Brayton) McAllaster -- 1900-2003

Altha Margaret McAllaster

Birth: 10 August 1900

Death: 1 March 2003


Born August 10, 1900, died 1 March 2003, married Guy C. McAllaster on 1 October 1921 at Little River, KS.

STERLING - Altha Margaret McAllaster, 102, died March 1, 2003, at Thorne Care Center, Hutchinson, KS.

She was born Aug. 10, 1900 at Little River, the daughter of William H. and Lena Truesdale Brayton. A longtime Sterling resident, she was a retired cook at the former Union II School, Sterling, for 16 years and at the Sterling College cafeteria for several years. In addition, she always opened her home to anyone who would stop by for a meal and a chat. She was known to everyone as "Grandma Mc." She was also known for her delicious cinnamon rolls and cookies. She loved her family and she was there to reach out to them. She and her husband's early years were spent in the Little River area, moving to their farm at Sterling in 1940. She and Guy moved into Sterling in 1978. In 1988, she moved to Wesley Towers in Hutchinson and resided there until her death. Her entire 102 years were spent within 25 miles of where she was born. Altha leaves as a legacy to her family the faith she had in the Lord and her love for her family and friends.

She belonged to United Presbyterian Church, Sterling.

On Oct. 11, 1921, she married Guy C. McAllaster at Little River. He died March 10, 1982.

Survivors include: two sons and their wives, Daniel F. and Faye McAllaster, Beaverton, Ore., and Robert Carol and Sue McAllaster, Horton; a daughter and husband, Anna Lou and Oick Wyatt, Dodge City; two daughters-in-law, Doris McAllaster, Omaha, Neb., and Donna Proffitt, Alden; 13 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two sons, Wilbur G. in 1978 and Ansel H. in 1997; and a grandson, Don F. McAllaster in 1987.

Funeral will be at 1:30 p.m. Friday at Sterling United Presbyterian Church, with the Rev. Glen Holman presiding. Private burial will be in Lyons Municipal Cemetery, Lyons, before the services. Visitation will be from 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday and 9 to 10 a.m. Friday at Sillin Funeral Home, Sterling.

Memorials may be sent to Sterling United Presbyterian Church or The Good Samaritan Fund at Wesley Towers, both in care of the funeral home.

The above picture was taken at Wesley Towers in August 2000 at her 100th birthday celebration. There were over 300 people that attended this birthday gathering.



Yeates, McAllister Howse -- 1952-1988

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: B03


Birth: 28 May 1952

Death: 16 June 1988


(No Obituary)
Died: Plantation, Broward County, Florida, USA
BURIAL: Dade Memorial Park, Opa-locka, Miami-Dade County, Florida, USA
MEMORIAL ID: 118234890



John Henry McAlister, Sr. -- 1913-1977

photo not available

CMA Ancestral Line: WC01


Birth: 31 August 1913

Death: 4 October 1977


Burial Resthaven Memorial Park, Ponca City, Kay County, OK

Find-A-Grave Memorial ID: 96195320