Obituaries: April 26, 2024
Martha Laura Boyett Cochran
Celebration of Life Service for Mrs. Martha Laura Boyett Cochran, 89, of Alexander City, will be Saturday, April 27, 2024, at 1 p.m. at Cornerstone First Global Methodist Church. Rev. Billy Coleman and Rev. Mike Densmore will officiate. Burial will follow in the Sears Chapel Methodist Church Cemetery in Rockford. The family will receive friends Friday, April 26, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home.
Mrs. Cochran; born March 31, 1935; served the Lord with gladness for her entire life, and passed away April 23, 2024. Martha’s life was marked by her hospitality, intelligence, and creativity.
Martha was the wife of Harold Wayne Cochran and mother to Kenneth Wayne Cochran and Martha Carol Cochran Hornsby (Larry). Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Laura Hornsby Lesley (Justin) and Drew Hornsby (Miranda), as well as her great-grandchildren, Blake Hornsby and Calvin Lesley. Martha was preceded in death by her parents, Gerald Boyett and Martha Esther Waites Boyett, and her brothers, Gerald Lloyd Boyett and Jimmy Morris Boyett.
A woman of remarkable intellect, Martha was valedictorian of Coosa County High School’s class of 1953. Her academic excellence continued at Alabama Polytechnic Institute, now known as Auburn University, where she graduated in 1956 with high honors with a degree in Home Economics with a Clothing and Textiles concentration and was inducted into numerous honor societies.
While studying in Auburn, she met her husband, Harold. They married on August 18, 1956, at Sears Chapel Methodist Church in Rockford, where Martha wore the wedding gown she designed and made by hand as part of her college senior project. An avid and highly skilled seamstress, she enjoyed clothing and pattern design.
Martha’s professional life was characterized by her pioneering spirit. She was the first woman to serve on a grand jury in Tallapoosa County and became the county’s first female real estate broker in the career she enjoyed for over 30 years. She served as a Camp Fire Girls leader for seven years and was a faithful member of Cornerstone First Global Methodist Church, formerly First United Methodist Church of Alexander City, where she contributed her musical talents to the choir since 1960 and provided guidance as Chairman of the Board of Trustees. She loved her Bible study groups, as well as Twentieth Century Study Club and Beta Sigma Phi civic organizations.
The family requests no flowers and for donations to be made in her memory to the Youth Building Fund or Music Fund at Cornerstone First Global Methodist Church at 310 Green Street, Alexander City, AL 35010.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Martha Laura Boyett Cochran.
John Benjamin Lawrence Jr.
John Benjamin Lawrence Jr. was born on August 11, 1953, to John Benjamin Lawrence Sr., and he passed on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at his residence.
John was a wonderful loving husband to Florence for 34 years. He was an avid NASCAR fan and enjoyed watching Practical Jokers on television.
He is survived by his wife, Florence Roxanne Lawrence of Goodwater; stepson, Samuel Westphal; stepdaughters, Rebecca Dion, Thersa Westphal; grandson, Evan Dion; niece, Roxanne Murphy; and friends, Derek and David.
He was preceded in death by his father.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of John Benjamin Lawrence Jr.
Charles L. Luker
Funeral service for Mr. Charles L. Luker, 74, of Kellyton, was Sunday, April 21, 2024, at the Kellyton First Global Methodist Church. Rev. Mike Jackson officiated.
Charles, or Charlie to those who knew him, was born on September 29, 1949, to Lafe and Mary Ellen Rogers Luker. Charlie loved his Lord and Savior; his wife, Melinda; his family; his church; and all of his dear friends – those who were inside and outside the Alabama Association of Tax Administrators. Charlie was a kind-hearted and wise man with a servant’s heart. He made it his life’s work to serve the Lord and those around him. He accepted his first earthly calling to serve when he became Revenue Commissioner of Coosa County, a role he proudly held for 33 years until he retired in 2013 to better serve and direct his full attention to his beloved wife, Melinda Langford Luker. Charlie made a lifelong commitment to Melinda on December 8, 1979, which he happily and humbly honored until he departed this earth on April 18, 2024. Charlie’s greatest joys and achievements were found in his three children; Chase Luker (Callie), Amanda Luker (Patrick) and Abby L. (Harry) Fitzpatrick; and his two grandchildren, Mary Sellers Luker and Charles Lum Luker. Charlie also loved Auburn University, where he made many great memories before and after his graduation.
Charlie is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren, as well as his precious sister, Martha Jean (Keith) Gray; his amazing nieces, Kelly Gallops (Rick) Davidson and Lauren Gray (Bran); their talented children, Walker, Luker and Patrick Davidson and Maya Castor; and his great friend, Don Armstrong.
Charlie was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Mary Cathryn L. (Robert) Gallops.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorials be made to the Kellyton First Global Methodist Church or Alzheimer’s research.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Charles L. Luker.
Marion W. “Sonny” Rayfield
Marion W. (Sonny) Rayfield passed away peacefully at Coosa Valley Medical Center on April 19, 2024, in Sylacauga, at the age of eighty-one, after a battle with cancer.
Sonny was born on February 4, 1943, to O.W. (Dude) Rayfield and Laverne Pody Rayfield in Sylacauga. After graduating from Weogufka High School in 1961, he drove a crane for Goodwin and Murphy Bridge Company.
After this, in 1968, he began working for Kimberly Clark in Childersburg, where he would retire in 2001.
In 1960, Sonny’s life took a beautiful turn when he met Linda Meadows, the love of his life. They embarked on a journey of love and togetherness, culminating in their marriage in 1961. Their union was blessed with a daughter, Denise Rayfield Rice, who brought immense joy to their lives.
Upon his retirement in 2001, Sonny embraced his leisure time with zest. He found joy in playing with his grandchildren, camping at Wind Creek State Park, and working in his shop. His hobbies included collecting knives and tractors, and he took pride in driving his beloved red Chevy truck.
Sonny was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Juanita Rayfield Shell; and his brothers, Dwight and Charles.
Sonny is survived by his adoring wife, Linda Meadows Rayfield; his daughter, Denise (John) Rayfield Rice; his sister, Kathy (Jack) Rayfield Brewer; and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A visitation for Sonny was held Monday, April 22, 2024, at Radney-Smith Funeral Home, Sylacauga, followed by a funeral service. Officiants were Bro. John Rice, Bro. Jordan Alker, and Bro. Mike Kiser.
Sonny was laid to rest in Unity Cemetery, 8780 Coosa County Road 56, Weogufka, 35183.
Serving as pallbearers were Brian Barnes, Aiden Barnes, John Tyler Rice, Josh Lowe, Brint Rice, and Dusty McClurg. Serving as honorary pallbearers were Jack Rayfield and Phillip Cosper.
Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/sylacauga-al/radney-smith-funeral-home/8516.
Radney-Smith Funeral Home in Sylacauga directed the services.
Amber Nicole Trong
A Celebration of Life Service for Mrs. Amber Nicole Trong, 29, of Goodwater, was Monday, April 22, 2024, at First Baptist Church, Alexander City. Rev. Matthew Reams and Rev. Sheldon Hutcherson officiated.
Amber Nicole Trong, affectionately known as Amber to all who knew her, passed away tragically on April 15, 2024, at the age of 29 in Alexander City. Born on November 17, 1994, in Sylacauga, Amber was a beacon of light and love to everyone who had the pleasure of crossing paths with her.
Amber’s life was a testament to the power of love and compassion. A graduate of Coosa County High School’s Class of 2013, she went on to earn an Associate’s Degree from Central Alabama Community College. Throughout her education and life, Amber’s creative and artistic talents shone brightly, bringing joy and color to the lives of those around her. Her goofy nature and infectious laughter were a source of constant happiness to her family and friends.
As a wife and mother, Amber was unparalleled. Her love for her husband, Paul Michael Trong II, was a deep and enduring flame that warmed all who witnessed it. Together, they created a life filled with joy and raised two wonderful sons, River Dawson Trong and Aaron Ridge Trong. Amber’s capacity for love was not diminished by loss, as she continued to hold her late son, Raiden Paul Trong, in her heart.
Amber’s family was the cornerstone of her world. She is survived by her devoted husband, Paul; her caring mother, Amanda Joyce Kimsey, and her husband, Steve; her loving father, Jonathan Douglas Peters, and his wife, Carrie; her cherished sons, River and Aaron; her dear sisters, Kaitlin Paige Caldwell and her husband, James, and Holly Gabrielle Overton and her husband, Kenneth; her adoring grandparents, Virginia Diane Rainwater and Dennis Lynn Peters with his wife, Janie; and her respected father-in-law, Paul Michael Trong I, and his wife, Jodi. Amber’s spirit will also be treasured by a host of other family members and friends who were touched by her generosity and kindness.
To describe Amber as loving, spirited, and generous barely scratches the surface of her character. She had an amazing heart and was always the first to offer help to those in need. Her empathy knew no bounds, and she was often seen as an angel to others. Her protective nature made her a safe haven for many, and her generosity extended beyond her immediate circle, touching the lives of countless individuals.
Amber’s warmth was matched by her spirited personality. She was not just loving, but she could also be a firecracker, known for her signature “eye roll” that could speak volumes. Her playful spirit and strong will were balanced by her generous soul, making her a truly unique and unforgettable presence.
In her life, Amber was a wonderful wife and a loving mother, always putting the needs of her family first. She was a protector of others, standing as a steadfast guardian for her children and loved ones. Her heart was big, and her actions were always guided by love and a desire to make the world a better place.
As we mourn the loss of Amber Nicole Trong, we also celebrate her remarkable life. She has left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her, and her legacy of love, creativity, and compassion will continue to inspire us. Though her physical presence is no longer with us, her spirit lives on in the countless lives she has touched and the memories we all hold dear.
Amber’s life was a beautiful journey of love, laughter, and selflessness. As we say goodbye to this extraordinary soul, we take comfort in knowing that her love will continue to guide us, just as the stars guide travelers in the night sky. Amber’s memory will be cherished forever, and her light will never fade from the hearts of those who loved her.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home was honored to serve the Trong family.
Aaron Ridge Trong
A Celebration of Life Service for Aaron Ridge Trong, age 5, of Goodwater, was Monday, April 22, 2024, at First Baptist Church, Alexander City. Rev. Matthew Reams and Rev. Sheldon Hutcherson officiated.
Aaron Ridge Trong, known affectionately as Ridge, was a beacon of pure love and joy in the lives he touched. Born on December 11, 2018, in Sylacauga, Ridge’s vibrant spirit and loving nature were evident from the very beginning. On April 18, 2024, at the tender age of five, Ridge passed away in Birmingham, leaving behind a legacy of love that will be cherished forever.
Ridge was the adored son of Paul Michael Trong II, and the cherished grandson of Amanda Joyce and Steve Kimsey, Jonathan Douglas and Carrie Peters, and Paul Michael and Jodi Trong I. He was the treasured great-grandson of Virginia Diane Rainwater and Dennis Lynn and Janie Peters. His loving aunts, Kaitlin Paige Caldwell (James) and Holly Gabrielle Overton (Kenneth), along with a host of other family members, will forever hold Ridge’s memory in their hearts. He was preceded in death by his loving mother, Amber Nicole Trong, and his dear brothers, River Dawson Trong and Raiden Paul Trong, as well as his great-grandfather, Johnnie Paul Rainwater.
Despite his young age, Ridge’s strength and toughness were remarkable, and his resilience shined through in his everyday actions. His touch was a gift, always seeking to connect with those around him, embodying the essence of comfort and healing. Ridge was the embodiment of pure love, and those who had the privilege of feeling his small hands knew the power of a touch that could soothe the weary spirit.
A snuggle bug with the ability to give the best hugs, Ridge’s affectionate nature made him a cherished companion. His bright eyes and developing firecracker personality, reminiscent of his mother’s, brought laughter and light to every room he entered. Ridge’s kindheartedness and passionate approach to life were infectious, inspiring all who knew him to live with more love and kindness.
Ridge was a child who loved unconditionally and with every fiber of his being. His loving and kind nature, coupled with his passionate spirit, made him a remarkable young boy who will be deeply missed. He was a source of joy and comfort, a young soul who, in his brief time on earth, taught those around him the profound impact of love and the strength of the human spirit.
As we bid farewell to Ridge, we are reminded of the joy he brought into our lives. His memory will live on as a testament to the power of love and the deep connections that can be formed in even the briefest of lifetimes. Ridge’s legacy is one of unwavering love, a reminder to cherish every moment with those we hold dear.
In the story of Aaron Ridge Trong, we find the purity of childhood, the warmth of a close-knit family, and the indelible mark of a life lived with boundless love. Though his time with us was short, the memories he leaves behind are etched into the hearts of those who loved him. Ridge’s spirit will continue to shine brightly, guiding us through the days ahead with the same love and kindness he so freely gave.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home was honored to serve the Trong family.
River Dawson Trong
A Celebration of Life Service for River Dawson Trong, age 8, of Goodwater, was Monday, April 22, 2024, at First Baptist Church, Alexander City. Rev. Matthew Reams and Rev. Sheldon Hutcherson officiated.
River Dawson Trong, known affectionately as River, passed away on April 18, 2024, at the tender age of eight, in Birmingham. Born on January 19, 2016, in Alexander City, River was a beacon of joy and laughter, whose presence was a gift to all who knew him.
River was the adored son of Paul Michael Trong II, and the cherished grandson of Amanda Joyce and Steve Kimsey, Jonathan Douglas and Carrie Peters, and Paul Michael and Jodi Trong I. He was the treasured great-grandson of Virginia Diane Rainwater and Dennis Lynn and Janie Peters. His loving aunts, Kaitlin Paige Caldwell (James) and Holly Gabrielle Overton (Kenneth), along with a host of other family members, will forever hold River’s memory in their hearts. He was preceded in death by his loving mother, Amber Nicole Trong, and his dear brothers, Aaron Ridge Trong and Raiden Paul Trong, as well as his great-grandfather, Johnnie Paul Rainwater.
River’s brief life was marked by his uncanny ability to light up any room. He never sought the spotlight; rather, it found him, drawn by his natural charm and infectious laughter. His quick wit and humorous antics earned him the title of class clown, and his joyful spirit made him the life of any gathering.
An engineer in the making, River had an insatiable curiosity for how things worked. His hands were rarely still, as he was often found building intricate Lego structures or fixing broken gadgets around the house. His intelligence and problem-solving skills were evident to all who watched him play and learn.
Beyond his clever mind, River had a rhythm in his soul. He loved to dance, moving with a grace and confidence that belied his young age. His charisma was undeniable, and he had a special way with people, especially the little girls who were utterly charmed by his playful demeanor.
More than just a source of laughter and fun, River was the anchor of his family. He had an innate ability to bring people together and keep them united, a loving adhesive that bonded his family through the best and worst of times.
River’s adventurous spirit was matched only by his loving nature. He embraced life with open arms, always ready for a new adventure, and his warmth and affection were felt by everyone he encountered.
The words funny, adventurous, and loving are but a small testament to the extraordinary boy that was River Dawson Trong. His eight years on this earth were far too short, yet the depth of his impact is immeasurable. River’s legacy will live on in the countless memories he created and in the indelible mark he left on the hearts of those who loved him.
As we bid farewell to River, we take solace in knowing that his light will continue to shine brightly in the lives of his family and friends. He was a remarkable child, whose spirit will forever be woven into the fabric of the memories he leaves behind.
River’s life was a precious gift, and though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit endures. We honor his memory by cherishing the moments we shared with him and by carrying forward the love and joy he so freely gave. River Dawson Trong, you were, and always will be, deeply loved.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home was honored to serve the Trong family.
