Obituaries
“Toodlum” Edward Brown
Funeral service for Mr. “Toodlum” Edward Brown, 85, of Equality, was Thursday, September 5, 2024, at the Bay Pine Baptist Church. Rev. Andrew Collum and Doug Moody officiated. Burial followed in the Rehobeth United Methodist Church Cemetery.
Toodlum Edward Brown; a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend to many; passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. He leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith, generosity, and passion for life that will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Born into the devoted family of Willie Robert Brown and Dollie Mashel Brown, Toodlum was a beacon of strength and love throughout his life. He was a proud graduate of Rockford High School and furthered his education with an associate degree from Massey-Brown Business College, which served as a foundation for his lifelong commitment to learning and leadership.
Toodlum was a man of God, having preached from 1956 until his last days. His spiritual journey led him to be part of the founding group of Bay Pine Baptist Church, and he pastored several local churches over the years. His dedication to his faith was evident in his every action and word, inspiring countless individuals in their own spiritual paths.
In addition to his ministry, Toodlum was a hardworking individual who contributed to his community by helping to build several homes. His work ethic was unmatched, and his contributions will stand as a testament to his desire to serve others. He also served as a Mason for 50 years.
Toodlum was also a passionate Alabama Football fan, a love he shared with friends and family alike. His interests extended to the great outdoors, where he found joy in cutting grass and baling hay. He was a Godly man who cherished the simple pleasures in life, including the company of his beloved fur babies, Yappy and Midnight.
Toodlum’s life was one of selfless service and boundless love, traits that were recognized by all who knew him. He was a faith-filled man whose generosity knew no bounds, and his passionate spirit touched the lives of many.
Surviving him are his children, Angela (Gary) Schuler, Jimmy (Tracy) Brown, and Regina Brown (Barry) Hawkins, all of whom he loved deeply and took great pride in. His sisters; Elea Peppers, Wynell Flourney, and Marie Brown Woodfin; will fondly remember their brother’s kindness and unwavering support.
Toodlum’s legacy continues through his grandchildren, Cassey Thomas, Joey (Tiffany) Thomas, Bo (Christina) Brown, Kevin (Teryn) Brown, Stephanie (Justin) Norwood, Josh (Stephanie) Hawkins, and Ryan (Amanda) Carden. His fifteen great-grandchildren will grow up hearing stories of their great-grandfather’s remarkable life and character.
Preceding him in death was his loving wife, Norma Faye Brown; his father, Willie Robert Brown; his mother, Dollie Mashel Brown; his brothers, William Robert Brown Jr. and Earl Frank Brown; and his sisters, Dollie May Autrey and Willie Adele Reddish.
Toodlum Edward Brown’s life was a testament to his enduring faith and his commitment to his family and community. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were touched by his generous spirit. His memory will live on as a guiding light, encouraging us all to live with the same passion and dedication he embodied for the Lord throughout his life.
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to Food for the Soul; 210 Alabama Highway 259; Equality, AL, 36026.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Edward Ellie Brown.
Betty Frances Osborn
Graveside service for Mrs. Betty Frances Osborn, 88, of Goodwater, was Thursday, September 5, 2024, at the Hillview Memorial Park. Bro. Chris Crumbley officiated.
Betty Frances Osborn, a cherished Southern Belle known for her loving and gentle nature, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2024, in Hackneyville. Born on June 3, 1936, in Tallapoosa County to Aurthur and Lois Patterson Vickers, Betty’s life was a tapestry of dedication to her family, her work, and her community.
Betty is survived by her son, Philip Lee Osborn; grandchildren, Kristin Kathleen (Mark) Chamberlin and Kaitlin Frances Parham; great-grandchildren, Anna Chamberlin, Abby Parham, and Carolyne Chamberlin. Betty’s warmth and kindness also extended to her numerous nieces and nephews, who will fondly remember her nurturing spirit.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Steven Fred Osborn; daughter, Vicky Lynn Osborn; and her siblings, Beman Vickers, Beatrice Vickers, Heflin Vickers, Jack Vickers, Nathalee Vickers, and Billy Vickers.
Betty’s professional life was marked by over 40 years of dedicated service in the front office at Avondale Mills. Her work ethic and commitment to excellence were hallmarks of her character. Beyond her professional endeavors, Betty was deeply involved in her church community. She was a former member of Hackneyville United Methodist Church, where she shared her musical talents by playing the piano. Later, she became a member of Hillabee Baptist Church, where her faith and fellowship continued to inspire those around her.
Betty’s interests were as diverse as they were passionate. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as going places, eating out, and shopping. An avid reader, she was also faithful to read her Bible, drawing strength and solace from its pages. Betty’s love for the outdoors was evident in her fondness for fishing in her pond and tending to her garden, where she cultivated both beauty and sustenance.
Her heart for service shone brightly through her volunteer work at local nursing homes, where she played Bingo with the residents, bringing smiles and companionship to many. Betty’s family describes her as a true “Southern Belle,” a title she embodied through her graciousness, hospitality, and the love she poured into every aspect of her life.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Betty Frances Osborn.
Teresa Taylor Walker
A Celebration of Life service for Teresa Taylor Walker was held Saturday, August 31, 2024, at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Montgomery with Dr. Willie G. Broadnax Sr. officiating. Interment followed at Eastwood Memorial Garden in Montgomery.
Teresa Ann Taylor Walker, a resident of College Park, Georgia, expired Sunday, August 25, 2024. Born on a chilly Saturday on December 11, 1948, she was the youngest daughter of the late Albert W. Taylor Jr. and Gracie Taylor. A devoted Christian from a young age, Teresa’s education began at Billingsley Elementary in North Montgomery. She furthered her studies at Alabama State University, graduating as a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.
Teresa’s professional journey started at Delta Airlines, where she worked as a flight attendant before transitioning to a career in Reservations, ultimately retiring after more than 20 years of service.
She was married to the late Marvin E. Walker Sr., and together they had two children, Chauncey Kiana Walker and Marvin E. Walker Jr., also known as Marty.
In her free time, Teresa loved listening to music, reading, traveling, and staying informed about current events. However, her greatest joy came from spending time with her friends and family, especially her grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her beloved mother and father, Albert and Gracie Taylor; brothers, Carl Murdock and Henri Taylor; and sisters, Carolyn Kelly and Elzora Daniels.
Teresa leaves to cherish her memories, her daughter, Kiana; her son, Marty (Christal); her brother, Reginald Taylor; and her beloved grandchildren, Breyonna, Azaiah, Dylan, and Nicholas. She will be remembered fondly by her family and friends for her warmth, love, and the joy she brought to their lives.
James Victor Whittaker
Graveside service for Mr. James Victor Whittaker, 59, of Rockford, will be Friday, September 6, 2024, at 12 p.m. at the Liberty Baptist Church Cemetery in Alliance.
Mr. Whittaker passed away on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at his residence. He was born on November 8, 1964, in El Dorado, Arkansas, to Walter Whittaker and Priscilla Nelson Whittaker. Mr. Whittaker was a software engineer. He was happiest when he was outside working in the yard or garden. He was a collector of many things but took great joy in his collection of old toys and games. He loved his family very much and was an avid animal lover, especially his cats.
He is survived by his wife, Matty McCullars Whittaker; daughters, Loreleigh (Sam) Weyman, Mina Whittaker, Evie Whittaker, and Penny Whittaker; son, Patrick Whittaker; father, Walter Whittaker; sister, Michelle Whittaker; and brother, Rick Whittaker.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Priscilla Whittaker; and son, William Graddy.
The family requests no flowers and suggests that memorial contributions be given to a charity of one’s choice.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of James Victor Whittaker.
