Obituaries
Mary Louise Sewell
Celebration of Life for Mrs. Mary Louise Sewell, 97, of Alexander City, was Thursday, December 11, 2025, in the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Pastor Gerald Carnes officiated.
Mary Louise Sewell, a beacon of faith and selflessness, passed away surrounded by the love of her family. Her life was a testament to her thoughtful nature and her unwavering commitment to her loved ones and her faith. Born to Frank Cleburn and Smithie Ogburn, Mary Louise was a lifelong resident of Alexander City, where she touched the lives of many with her kindness and grace.
A proud graduate of Goodwater High School, Mary Louise went on to serve her community as a telephone operator with South Central Bell for two decades. Her strong work ethic was further exemplified in her subsequent 20-year tenure at Russell Corporation, from which she retired, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and hard work.
Mary Louise’s Christian faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was a devoted and faithful member of Sunny Level Methodist Church for over 70 years. Her commitment to her church family was evident in her active participation in the United Methodist Women and the many years she joyfully spent teaching Sunday School. Her faith-filled life was an inspiration to all who knew her.
Her love for her family was unparalleled. Mary Louise is survived by her son, Mickey (Traci) Sewell; her grandsons, Will (Dawson) Sewell, Reese Kelley, and Matthew Kelley; and her daughter-in-law, Barbara Sewell. Each of them will carry forward her legacy of love and generosity. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 68 years, Harlan Alden Sewell; her dear son, Randy Sewell; her parents; and her siblings, who welcomed her into eternal peace.
Mary Louise’s interests brought joy not only to her, but also to those around her. She had a passion for growing beautiful flowers and bountiful vegetables, sharing the fruits of her labor with family and friends through her canning and freezing. Her culinary skills were unmatched, and the delicious meals she prepared for her family will be remembered with fondness. Her love for travel took her to the mountains, which she explored with the same enthusiasm she brought to every aspect of her life.
Mary Louise Sewell will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on through the countless lives she touched with her selfless and thoughtful nature. Her spirit, characterized by love and devotion, will continue to guide her family and friends. As they gather to celebrate her life, they will find comfort in the knowledge that her legacy is one of enduring love and faith.
The family will accept flowers, or memorial contributions may be made to Sunny Level Methodist Church; 3237 Highway 63 North; Alexander City, AL, 35010.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home was honored to serve the family of Mary Louise Sewell.
Donald Russell Yarbrough
Funeral service for Mr. Donald Russell Yarbrough, 76, of Goodwater, was Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Bro. Neal Smith officiated. Burial followed in the Hackneyville Cemetery.
Mr. Yarbrough passed away on Monday, December 8, 2025, at his residence. He was born on February 24, 1949, in Alexander City, to Vernon Wayne Yarbrough and Rosie Lee Johnson Yarbrough. He was an active member of Ray Community Church.
Donald enjoyed being outdoors hunting and fishing with his children. He was a loving family man.
He is survived by his wife, Melissa Yarbrough; sons, Kayson Yarbrough, James (Kristal) Yarbrough; daughter, Donna (Jeremy) Mills; stepson, Jerry Lynn Melton; brothers, Thomas Yarbrough and Charles Edward Yarbrough; ten grandchildren; and fifteen great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; stepson, Bluford Ringo Melton; siblings, Earl Yarbrough, Glenda Nelson, Edna Davis, Robert Yarbrough, Charles Vernon Yarbrough, and Harold Yarbrough.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home was honored to serve the family of Donald Russell Yarbrough.
