Obituaries
Goff “Buck” Miller
Goff “Buck” Miller, age 76, of Rockford, passed away at home with his caregivers; his wife, Heather; and special friend, April Hyde; on Monday, August 26, 2024.
Buck is survived by his wife of 10 years, Heather Shelton Miller; her children, Katylyn Kirk and C. J. Kirk; he was known as Big Daddy to her grandchildren, Jada and Jaxsun; niece, Dana Sue Miller; and a host of friends to celebrate his memory.
Buck was preceded in death by his parents, Gothard and Berta Sue Miller; brothers, John Henry Miller and Junior Miller; and sister, Mary Jean Miller.
Buck labored in coal mining all his life as a master diesel mechanic. He later opened his own business, Miller’s Heavy Equipment and Repair. It was his passion. He worked until the very end of his life. In his school he received a national FFA award, delivering a speech in Washington, D.C. Buck was noted as being a man’s man. Always to be seen in his overalls, he was known for his charisma and natural charm. He had a big heart and vast knowledge of nature. He could name every tree on his farm.
A visitation for Buck was held Thursday, August 29, 2024, at Radney-Smith Funeral Home, Sylacauga, followed by a funeral service with Rev. Tommy Thornton officiating.
Buck was laid to rest in Poplar Springs Baptist Church Cemetery, 330 Coosa County Road 34, Rockford, 35136.
Pallbearers were Matthew Honeycutt, Steven Honeycutt, Thomas Gable, Logan Mitchell, Austin Stone, and Shayne Epperson. Honorary pallbearer was Tommy Sellers.
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.
Brenlee Taylor Parker
Brenlee Taylor Parker was born February 11, 2008, to Pamela Parker Jackson and John Todd Hall. Brenlee was a junior at B.B. Comer High School. Brenlee was a sweet, outgoing, fun loving, full of personality, kind hearted, beautiful young lady. She loved everybody she met. She is loved by so many. To know her is to love her. Brenlee was full of life, a life that was taken too soon. Brenlee will be missed and loved forever.
Brenlee is survived by her mother, Pamela Parker Jackson; brother, Colton Jackson; sister, Abigail Parker; Gg Sandra Parker; grandmother, Martha Hall; uncle, Dane Goodwin (Tina); uncle, Michael Parker; uncle, Travis Hall (Stacey); uncle, Tucker Hall (Dana); and her cousins, Alanna Goodwin (Josh), Kaleigh Maness (Seth), Daylynn Goodwin, Parker Strickland, Rosie Strickland, and Adalynn Mathews.
Brenlee was preceded in death by her father, John Todd Hall, and her papa, Mike Parker.
Pallbearers were Seth Mathews, Josh Childre, Walter Maness, Chandler Maness, Roy Hanna, and Drew Fowler. Honorary pallbearers were Colton Jackson and Jeremy Jackson.
Visitation was held Sunday, August 25, 2024, at Curtis and Son North Chapel followed by a funeral service with Rev. Steve Hartsell officiating.
Aairon Riggins
A funeral service for Mr. Aairon Riggins was held Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at New Home Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Christopher Todd officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery.
Mr. Aairon Riggins was born June 29, 1938, to the late Mr. Shellie D. Riggins and Mrs. Estella Vaughn Riggins.
Aairon was preceded in death by his wife, Elsie Riggins; his father, Shellie Riggins; his mother, Estella V. Riggins; five brothers, James, Robert, George, Henry, and Shellie Lewis Riggins; three sisters, Callie Love, Nellie Hatten, and Willie Riley.
Aairon became a member of the New Home Missionary Baptist Church and he remained a faithful member until his death on August 9, 2024.
He was joined in Holy Matrimony to Elsie Owens, and to this union three children were born.
Aairon attended Coosa County Training School (J.D. Thompson). He retired from Russell Corporation after more than 30 years of service. He was a member of the New Home Missionary Baptist Church male choir, a member of the usher board, trustee board, and a member of the church’s grounds keeping team.
His memory will forever be cherished by two sons, Earnest (Katie) of Alabaster and Sidney of Montgomery; and one daughter, Brenda Riggins of Tuscaloosa; as well as two brothers, Douglas Riggins (Virginia) and Reverend Ceborn Riggins (Bessie), both of Alexander City; in-laws, Izedar Brown of Alexander City, Ida Hosea of Rockford, Amanda Owens of Alexander City, Katie Owens of Goodwater, and Fredrick Owens of Sylacauga; grandchildren, Trevonte Riggins, Kiara Moon Bullock, Sidrecuz Riggins, and Jalen Riggins; great-grandchildren, Kayden and Karter Morgan, Chase and Rhylee Riggins, Kameron and Kaitlynn Moon, and Kayson Riggins; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
Final arrangements entrusted to Armour’s Memorial Services.
Reed Marshall Smith
A Celebration of Life Service for Reed Marshall Smith, 10, of Alexander City, was Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at Rocky Creek Baptist Church. Dr. Josh Sammons and Rev. T.C. Brown officiated.
Reed Marshall Smith, affectionately known as Reed by all who knew him, left this world far too soon on August 23, 2024, at the tender age of ten. Born on June 16, 2014, in Alexander City, Reed was a bright light in the lives of everyone he touched. His untimely departure occurred in the same loving community where he first began his journey, surrounded by the natural beauty he so cherished.
Reed’s life was one of vibrancy and joy, filled with the love of his devoted parents, Joshua Marshall Smith and Lindsey Marine Smith. His infectious smile and boundless energy were a source of constant happiness to his adoring sisters, Madelyn Grace Smith and Lillian Brooke Smith. Reed’s warmth and kindness were also a comfort to his grandparents, Reed Marine and Lynne Marine, who supported and guided him throughout his life.
His grandfather, Gary Marshall Smith; great-grandmothers, Myril Giddens and Julianne Evans; great-grandparents, Jack and Carolyn Marine; and aunt and uncle, David and Diane Drain, preceded Reed in death but left a legacy of love that Reed carried forward.
The bond Reed shared with his family extended to his uncle, Caleb (Taylor) Marine, and his cousins, Jack and John Sawyer Marine, along with a host of other cousins, family members, and many friends. Each relationship was treasured by Reed, who had an innate ability to make everyone feel special.
Reed’s academic journey was blossoming at Horseshoe Bend School, where he was a diligent and curious fifth-grade student. His intelligence shone brightly, and his empathetic nature made him a friend to all. Reed’s love for learning was matched only by his passion for soccer. As an excellent player, he was not only dedicated to the sport, but also to his teammates, whom he inspired with his teamwork and sportsmanship.
A true outdoorsman at heart, Reed relished every opportunity to explore the great outdoors. Fishing with his Pop was among his favorite pastimes, a serene activity where he found joy and tranquility. His love for animals and insects spoke to his inquisitive spirit and his appreciation for all living things.
Reed’s bravery and courage were evident to all, qualities that shone through even in his youthful years. He approached life with a fearless love, embracing every moment with happiness and an open heart. His beautiful smile was a beacon of light, reflecting his inner goodness and the positive impact he had on the world.
A devout Christ follower, Reed lived his faith with conviction and was never shy about expressing his love for worship. His favorite verse, Joshua 1:9, encapsulated his approach to life, as he truly was strong and courageous in all he did. His love for his family was profound, and he revered his sisters, believing they hung the moon.
To describe Reed is to speak of love, adventure, and friendliness. These attributes defined him and were the essence of his being. His legacy is one of pure love, an adventurous spirit that sought out the beauty in every corner of the world, and a friendly demeanor that drew people to him naturally.
Reed Marshall Smith may have left this world too soon, but his memory will endure in the hearts of those who loved him. His life, though brief, was a testament to the power of love, the joy of discovery, and the strength of faith. He will be deeply missed, but the light of his spirit will continue to shine brightly, guiding and inspiring all who were blessed to know him.
Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be given to Camp ASCCA; 5278 Camp ASCCA Drive; Jacksons Gap, Alabama 36861.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home was honored to serve the family of Reed Marshall Smith.
Marian Annette Thornton
Funeral service for Ms. Marian Annette Thornton, 79, of Clanton, will be Saturday, August 31, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Sardis Baptist Church. Rev. Matthew Reams and Rev. Jeff Hardy will officiate. Burial will follow in the Sardis Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday, August 30, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home.
Marian passed away on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at Hatley Health Care, Clanton. She was born on January 9,1945, in Rockford, to Herschel and Dera Ward Thornton. Marian received her education at Coosa County High School, followed by Masses Draughon Business College in Montgomery. She worked at State Farm Insurance in Birmingham before moving to Huntsville to work at Redstone Arsenal. She later worked in Montgomery at the Alabama State Attorney General’s office, followed by employment at Alabama Probation and Parole Board. She retired from Tutwiler Prison for Women. She knew all the inmates at Tutwiler by name, treating them like her family and providing spiritual friendship. She frequently entertained them by playing the piano and singing gospel songs. She spent time with every Death Row inmate by visiting them in their cells.
Marian’s number one joy was serving her Lord through music. She began playing the piano and singing at five years old. As an adult she was in a quartet called the Sweet, Sweet Spirits that sang frequently in the Central Alabama area. She taught Sunday School to children, youth, and adults. She had a special love for Israel and The Samaritan’s Purse ministry. Marian spread love everywhere she went with everybody she met.
She loved animals and rescued dozens of cats and dogs through the years. Her family teased her as being the stereotypical Crazy Cat Lady. She even named her cows.
She is survived by her brother, Grady Thornton (Laura), and nephews, Christian Thornton (Barbara), Brandon Thornton (Donna), Joel Nesmith (Pam), Robert Bullard, Daniel Bullard, and Thomas Bullard; great-nephew, Austin Thornton; and great-niece, Sierra Thornton Henry (Ethan).
She is preceded in death by her parents, Herschel and Dera Thornton; and brother, Herron Wayne “Buster” Thornton.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Sardis Baptist Church; 6690 Coosa County Road 29; Rockford, Alabama, 35136 or online at https://give.idonate.com/baptist-foundation-alabama/sardis-baptist-church.
The family wishes to express gratitude to the staff of Hatley Health Care for their loving care of Marian for over six years.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the Thornton family throughout the years.
