Obituaries
Sarah Ann McDaniel
Sarah Ann McDaniel, age 70, of Goodwater, passed away on Thursday, September 5, 2024.
Ann loved her church, spending time with her mom, being a servant for God, going to movies, Braves baseball, Alabama football, shopping at thrift stores and yard sales, and spending time with friends.
Ann is survived by her husband of 52 years, James Heflin McDaniel; her son, James Brandon McDaniel; her daughter, Jayna Lynn Pelfrey; and her granddaughters, Brett Finn and Quinn Pelfrey.
Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Alvin and Eunice Smitherman.
A visitation for Ann was held Monday, September 9, at Weogufka Family Worship Center, 20771 Coosa County Road 29, Weogufka, 35183. Following the visitation was a funeral service with Bro. Tommy Thornton and Bro. Phillip Alverson officiating.
Serving as pallbearers were Randy B. McDaniel, Keith McDaniel, Sherwood McDaniel, John McDaniel, Randall McDaniel, Johnny McDaniel. Serving as honorary pallbearers were Paul Mooney and Barry Clemmons.
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 directed the service.
Jack Dempsey Pemberton

Funeral service for Mr. Jack Dempsey Pemberton, 97, of Alexander City, will be Friday, September 13, 2024, at 12:30 p.m. at the Flint Hill Church. Rev. John Hill, Rev. Richard Talley, and Rev. Griff Pemberton will officiate. Burial will follow in the Flint Hill Church Cemetery with Honors provided by the Alexander City Veterans Honor Guard. The family will receive friends on Friday, September 13, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Flint Hill Church.
Jack Dempsey Pemberton, affectionately known as Jack, was a beacon of selfless love and faith who left this world on September 10, 2024, at the age of 97. Born on February 21, 1927, in Tallapoosa County, Jack’s life was a testament to dedication and service, both to his country and his community. He passed away peacefully in Alexander City, surrounded by the love of his family.
Jack’s journey through life was shared with his beloved wife of 76 years, Ella Mae Funderburk Pemberton. Together, they built a legacy of love and commitment that is carried on by their children, Steve (Sybil) Pemberton, Donald Marion Pemberton, and Kathy Jo (Richard) Talley. Jack’s joy was multiplied through his grandchildren, Rachel Pemberton (Payton) Williams, Jason (Renea) Pemberton, Natalie (Adam) Fuller, Griff Pemberton, Heather Talley (David) Mason, and Josh (Julie) Talley. His great-grandchildren, Caleb Goodwin, Hadley Fuller, Abbie Jones, Jackson Venable, Dax Talley, Charlie Williams, Maggie Williams, Claire Williams, Ellie Pemberton, and Isaac Pemberton, as well as his great-great-grandchildren, Bryson Barringer, Waylon Fuller, Hudson Jones, and Lainey Mae Jones, will forever cherish the memories and lessons he imparted.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, James A. Pemberton and Minnie Mae Pemberton; and his siblings, Susie Nerine Cannon, Ruby Allen, Minnie Lou Balentine, Dorothy J. Smith, Jimmy L. Pemberton, Ocie Pemberton, Harvey Pemberton, Mynard Pemberton, Loyd “Shine” Pemberton, William L. Pemberton, Eddie Pemberton, and Henry Grady Pemberton. They have now welcomed him into the eternal family reunion.
For 46 years, Jack dedicated his career to the Russell Corporation, working in the Bleachery with a steadfast work ethic and a friendly demeanor that earned him the respect and friendship of his colleagues. His commitment to his work was only surpassed by his devotion to his family, whom he loved profoundly and supported unconditionally.
A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Jack served his country with honor and carried that sense of duty throughout his life. His faith was the cornerstone of his existence, and he was a longtime and faithful member of Flint Hill Church. Jack’s service to his church included sitting on numerous committees, and his deep-rooted belief was evident in the nursing home ministry he led with his wife, where he shared devotionals and comforted many.
Jack’s interests were as varied as they were heartfelt. His passion for fishing, where he was happiest with a line in the water. His green thumb was evident in his beautiful garden, and the joy of riding his 4-wheeler through the countryside was a simple pleasure he greatly enjoyed. Jack’s talent for woodworking resulted in many crosses that he lovingly crafted and placed throughout the town, leaving a tangible legacy of his faith.
Described as loving, selfless, and faith-filled, Jack’s life was a living example of servitude. Always doing for others, his presence was a source of comfort and strength. He was a man who put others before himself, and his actions spoke louder than words.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in Jack’s memory to Flint Hill Church; Flint Hill Church Cemetery Fund; 2858 Flint Hill Road; Alexander City, AL 35010 or Tallapoosa Christian Crisis Center; 4425 Dadeville Road; Alexander City, AL 35010.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Jack Dempsey Pemberton.
