Obituaries
J. Larry Lang
J. Larry Lang, age 77, of Weogufka, passed away on Monday, July 21, 2025.
Larry is survived by his wife of 53 years, Christine Lang; daughter, Stacey Ezekiel (Kevin); grandchildren, Bella Ezekiel, Emma Steverson, Erika Millwood (James), Reed Ezekiel (Morgan); great-grandchildren, Avery Millwood, Oaklynn Ezekiel, Chasidy Ezekiel; and nephew, Dwight Lang.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, John Lang and Ruby Benefield; brothers, Bobby Lang, David Lang; and nephew, Allen Lang.
Larry served in the U.S. Air Force and served in Vietnam for one year. He retired after more than 30 years from the EC Gaston Steam plant in Wilsonville with The Southern Company.
A graveside service for Larry was held Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Unity Presbyterian Cemetery, 8780 Coosa County Road 56, Weogufka.
Serving as pallbearers were Kevin Ezekiel, James Millwood, Reed Ezekiel, Chris Ezekiel, Billy Helm, and Glenn Rye. Honorary pallbearers were Phillip Johnson, Tracey Roberson, Bobby Ezekiel, and Dwight Lang.
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.
Patricia Pike
Graveside service for Mrs. Patricia Pike, 83, of Goodwater, was Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Rock Springs Baptist Church. Bro. James Morgan officiated.
Mrs. Pike passed away peacefully on July 20, 2025, at her home in the heart of the Alabama countryside. She was born on March 16, 1942, to Griffin Royal and Lois Cannon Royal. Patricia’s life was a testament to her steadfast work ethic, her unwavering faith and the joy she found in the simple pleasures of life.
Patricia’s journey began in Goodwater, where she grew from a spirited child into a woman of strength and character. Her dedication to her community was evident in her many years of service at Russell Mills, where she not only contributed her keen sense of diligence, but also formed lifelong friendships that she deeply treasured.
A devout member of the Rock Springs Baptist Church, Patricia’s faith was a beacon that illuminated her path and guided her actions. She was an active participant in the church’s activities, providing support and love to her church family. Her presence was particularly felt on Sundays, a day she revered not only for its spiritual significance, but also for the warm, laughter-filled family lunches that would follow.
An adventurous soul, Patricia could often be seen riding her “buggy” across her land, a sight that became a cherished fixture to those in the know, lovingly waving as they would pass by. These rides were more than a pastime; they were a means for Patricia to connect with the nature around her and the people she adored.
Patricia’s love for her friends and family was boundless, and she made it her life’s work to ensure that her warmth and generous spirit touched all who knew her. Her door was always open, her table perpetually set for an extra guest, and her laughter a symbol of the joy she found in everyday moments.
Though her passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her, the memory of her vibrant spirit will continue to inspire and comfort. Mrs. Patricia Pike’s journey on earth may have ended, but the legacy of love and kindness she leaves behind will resonate for generations to come. A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered.
She is survived by her brother, Keith (Dianne) Royal of Goodwater; sister, Paula Royal of Birmingham; her nieces and nephews that she treated like grandchildren, Katrina (Chad) Brewer of Goodwater, Jamie (Joe) Cordi of Birmingham, Kinsley (Benji) Cotney of Chelsea, Lauren Caver of Birmingham, Ethan (Maddie) Cotney of Sylacauga, Addie Cotney of Sylacauga, Chris (Kristina) Royal of Goodwater, and Adain Royal; as well as many other family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Dwayne Pike; sisters, Betty Karr and Peggy Hamilton; and brother, Johnny Royal.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home was honored to serve the family of Patricia Pike.
Franklin Douglas Seitz
Franklin Douglas Seitz; a man of courage, creativity, and intelligence; has left a lasting legacy as he passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Born to the late Ernest and Virginia Mary Seitz, Franklin’s life was one of dedication, service, and joy which touched the hearts of everyone he encountered.
Franklin proudly served his country in the United States Navy, a testament to his bravery and patriotic spirit. Following his military service, he embarked on a successful career in the construction sales business. His work ethic and expertise were well-regarded, and his involvement in industry associations reflected his commitment to professional excellence and camaraderie.
Franklin’s faith was a guiding light in his life, especially in his later years. His belief system provided him with strength and comfort, shaping the way he lived and interacted with those around him.
Franklin’s passion for life was evident in his many interests. He had a special talent for buying and restoring old cars, a hobby that showcased his creativity and mechanical intelligence. He enjoyed horse barrel racing and won a few competitions. Frank had a passion for art and loved drawing with charcoal, painting, and airbrushing. Franklin cherished the time spent with his children, creating memories that they will hold dear forever.
Franklin’s legacy is carried on by his loving family. He is survived by his dear friend, Virginia Ashworth of Alexander City; his sons, Michael (Linda) Seitz of Equality, and Franklin Seitz II; his daughters, Terry Zedik, and Tammy (Rick) Warner; his adored grandchildren, Holly Warner, Briana Warner, Christian Warner, Victoria Warner, Elizabeth Warner, Matthew Warner, Hailey Detling, Shayla Campbell, Scott Seitz, William Lassiter, and Mario Lassiter; his precious great-grandchildren, Christopher Campbell and Dakota Dean; his sister, Rusty (Larry) Wolny; and his brothers, Bill and Linn Seitz.
The imprint of Franklin’s life is indelibly etched in the hearts of those he loved. His courage, creativity, and intelligence were not only qualities he possessed, but were gifts he gave to the world, leaving it richer than he found it. Franklin Douglas Seitz’s story is one of a life well-lived, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Franklin Douglas Seitz.
Johnny Ray Self
Graveside service for Johnny Ray Self, 67, of Equality, was Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the Equality Methodist Church Cemetery. Rev. Wayne Cowhick officiated.
Mr. Johnny Self passed away on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at St. Vincents Hospital. He was born on March 20, 1958, in Alexander City to Jack Hoover Self and Jeanette McDaniel Self. He was an active member of Equality Methodist Church.
Mr. Johnny Ray Self, known affectionately as Johnny by his loved ones, passed away on July 16, 2025, at the age of 67. Born on March 20, 1958, Johnny’s life was marked by his unwavering faith, his generous spirit, and his ability to bring laughter into every room.
Johnny was a devoted husband to his wife, Patricia Self, of Equality. Together, they built a life full of love and shared laughter. He was a loving father to his daughter, Tammy Johns, and her husband, Jeff, of Alexander City, and to his son, Blake Self, and his wife, Rachel, of Rockford. Johnny’s joy multiplied with the birth of each grandchild: Randy Miller, Kaitlyn Johns, Emily Johns, Eli Self, Addison Self, Harper Self, Athena Herrmann, and Matthew Herrmann. Each one held a special place in his heart, and he cherished every moment spent with them. He is also survived by his sister, Donna Jo Bishop, and her husband, Ronnie, who will remember Johnny’s friendly nature and the bond they shared. Each of his siblings will carry forward the memories of Johnny’s funny anecdotes and generous acts that defined his character.
James Self, Jerry Self, JR Self, Tony Self, Chuck Bradley, and Todd Coleman served as pallbearers for Johnny’s service.
Johnny was preceded in death by his father, Jack Hoover Self; his mother, Jeanette McDaniel Self; and his brothers, Hansel Self and Barry Lynn Self. They paved the way for him to join them in eternal rest, leaving behind a legacy of love and family unity.
As a Christian, Johnny’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He lived out his beliefs through his kindness, his welcoming nature, and his willingness to help anyone in need. Those who knew Johnny experienced his friendship as a constant source of comfort and support.
Johnny’s humor was legendary; he had a unique ability to find humor in the everyday and could put a smile on everyone’s face. His friends and family will miss his jokes and the sound of his laughter, which could light up the darkest of days. Johnny loved motocross, his tree service, and his beloved pets.
Generosity was second nature to Johnny. Whether it was his time, resources, or a listening ear, he gave freely and without expectation. His legacy of giving will continue to inspire all who knew him.
As we say goodbye to Mr. Johnny Ray Self, we celebrate the life of a man who was the epitome of a friend, a family man, and a devout Christian. His memory will continue to be a beacon of joy and kindness for all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Johnny’s life was a testament to the power of humor, the strength of friendship, and the depth of love. He will be profoundly missed, but his spirit will live on through the many lives he touched.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home was honored to serve the family of Johnny Ray Self.
