Obituaries: Nov. 21, 2025
Martha Janice Dark
Funeral service for Mrs. Martha Janice Dark, 83, of Kellyton, was Thursday, November 20, 2025, at the Kellyton First Global Methodist. Rev. Mike Jackson officiated. Burial followed in the Kellyton Memory Garden.
Martha Janice Dark, a beacon of love and faith, passed away surrounded by her adoring family. Born into the loving arms of James Terrell Bruce and Annie Margaret Bruce, Janice grew up to be a woman of grace and virtue, touching the lives of all who knew her.
Janice’s educational journey began at Bibb Graves High School in Clay County, where she blossomed into a young woman of intelligence and ambition. Her passion for beauty and care for others led her to receive her cosmetology license, which she used not only to enhance the outer beauty of her clients, but also to brighten their spirits with her warm conversation and genuine interest in their lives.
A devout Christian, Janice’s faith was the cornerstone of her existence. For 64 years, she was a dedicated member of the Kellyton First Global Methodist Church, where she led the Altar Guild with devotion and sang in the choir with a voice that was both tender and powerful. Her commitment to her faith and church community was unwavering and served as an inspiration to many.
Janice’s zest for life was evident in her many interests and hobbies. She was an avid reader, a lover of shopping, and a master baker whose recipes were cherished by her family and friends. Her adventurous spirit led her to travel the world with her beloved sister and daughter, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Furthermore, her involvement with the Alabama Cattle Women’s Association reflected her love for her community and her desire to contribute to its prosperity.
Janice’s selfless nature was most apparent in her role as a matriarch. She is survived by her devoted husband, Samuel Wilson Dark of Kellyton; her loving daughter, Margaret Amanda (Michael) Wilbanks of Maylene; her cherished grandson, Taylor Wilbanks; and her adored great-grandson, Arthur Wilbanks. Her siblings, Bobbie Bruce, Windell (Ann) Bruce, and Terry Bruce, along with her sister-in-law, Anelia Bruce, will hold her memory dear in their hearts. She was preceded in death by her father, James Terrell Bruce; her mother, Annie Margaret Bruce; and her brother, Wayne Bruce.
Those who knew Janice would describe her as faith-filled, selfless, and loving. She had a unique ability to make each person feel valued and loved, and her legacy of kindness and compassion will live on through the many lives she touched.
Martha Janice Dark’s life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and family. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to guide and comfort those she left behind. As we say goodbye to this remarkable woman, we celebrate the extraordinary life she led and the countless ways she enriched our world.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home was honored to serve the family of Martha Janice Dark.
James Allan Thompson
James Allan Thompson (most recently of Auburn, Ala.) took his last breath peacefully at 1:32 p.m. on November 18, 2025, at Regional Medical Center in Anniston.
He was preceded in death by his father, Harold Williams Thompson Sr., and his brother, Harold Williams Thompson Jr. (known as Bill). He is survived by his mother, Mary Ann Thompson; his brother, Benjamin Thompson; his nephews, Caleb Thompson and Alden Thompson; his niece, Canaan Thompson; his cousins, Rodney Ivey, Robin Merced, Margaret Pippin, Shannon Grier, Albert Wilson Ivey III (known as Will), Cathy McIntosh, Victoria Marren, Colin McIntosh, Amy Gisczinski, and Cyndy McMenamin; and his “brothers” Clark Brown and Caleb Campbell. He also is survived by a host of “adoptive” nieces and nephews, close friends and coworkers.
James was a graduate of Faulkner University and Troy University. Though he held several jobs with the state, he most recently worked as an auditor for the GI Bill program for the State of Alabama. He was a die-hard fan of his beloved Auburn University. He loved music, traveling, his family, and his friends. He loved to laugh and to make others laugh. To know James was to know he enjoyed life and what it had to offer.
James’ funeral will be held at the Rockford Church of Christ church building at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 22. There will be no graveside service, but there will be a time of food and sharing together afterwards. That is how James would want it.
