Obituaries

MAKI, TREVOR. Death strikes family twice in two months. Trevor Maki joined the Navy two years ago to earn money for college. Instead, the 1997 Gulf High School graduate will join his grandfather later this week in the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. The 22-year-old Navy airman was hit by a plane’s propeller blade aboard the USS Enterprise on Friday during routine exercises off the Virginia coast. He died the next day. The accident is under investigation, according to Navy officials. Maki’s death is the second this year for the Maki family members, who are longtime New Port Richey residents. His mother, Alda Maki, died in February after a seven-year battle with cancer. “I was just beginning to get my life back together after that,” John Maki, Trevor’s father, said Wednesday. An avid sports fan, Trevor Maki had played football all four years at Gulf High and planned to study physical therapy with an eye toward sports medicine when he got out of the Navy, his father said. In Trevor Maki’s bedroom, a Tampa Bay Buccaneers team pennant was among those adorning the walls, and a well-worn football shared space on a bookshelf with several football trophies. The husky athlete smiled out from a stack of pictures on his shelf, several with his prom date and others with his football pals. “He’s really the kind of kid you’d like to have on your team because you always knew you could count on him,” said Keith Newton, head football coach at Gulf High. “He was an easy kid to get along with.” But not one to mess with on the field: With his 5-foot-9, roughly 235-pound frame, Maki was an effective offensive and defensive tackle, even when starting against players taller than he, Newton said. “He always got right back up.” Whenever he got leave from the Navy, Maki would come by for a visit, Newton said. “We’d mostly talk about sports when he was here,” Newton said. “He loved the game.” Maki’s two years in the Navy were spent aboard the Enterprise, one of the Navy’s best known nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, capable of launching aircraft every 30 seconds, according to the Navy. Maki was an aircraft handler with the ship’s Air Department and was trying to secure a plane that had blown a tire when he was hit by the propeller, Navy officials said. “He was supposed to get in there and tie the birds (aircraft) down” after they landed, Drew Carmichael said. Carmichael met Maki in boot camp and worked with him aboard the Enterprise. He accompanied Maki’s body back to Florida. John Maki, a respiratory therapist at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, said his son usually called home two or three times a week, especially since his mother died. He said he’d been out the last few times his son had called and missed those calls. “I hadn’t spoken to him for about two weeks,” John Maki said. Still recovering from his wife’s death, John Maki said he has depended on the Navy, family and friends from River Ridge Presbyterian Church to help him cope with his son’s. He said it isn’t about taking things one day at a time. “It’s one minute at a time,” he said. In addition to his father, Trevor Maki’s survivors include two brothers, Richard and Michael, and his maternal grandmother, Nedra Summers, all of New Port Richey. St. Petersburg Times, Apr. 21, 2000.

MALOY, MIKE (December 10, 1935-April 1, 2013), age 77, of Live Oak FL, passed away Monday evening, April 1, 2013, at the Good Samaritan Center in, Dowling Park FL. The Ft. Wayne, Indiana, native moved to Live Oak FL in 1985 from New Port Richey FL. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Pharmacy from the University of Florida and played the trombone in the Gator Band. He also served in the U.S. Army Reserve for two years. Mike was a private pilot, loved sailing and founded Sailing Adventures, Inc. He had a great passion for the outdoors, farming and riding motorcycles. He was the King of the Chasco Fiesta in New Port Richey and member of the Wellborn Baptist Church. He is survived by one son, Norm Maloy, Swansea, IL; one daughter Wendy Stanley, Sunnyvale, CA; six grandchildren. Memorial services will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, April 6, 2013 in the Brody Harris Memorial Chapel with Rev. Jack Jones officiating. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Florida Sheriffs Boys Ranch, P.O. Box 2000, Live Oak, FL 32064. [GHS Class of 1953]

MANGAN, JOHN J., 92, of New Port Richey and formerly of St. Petersburg, died Saturday (April 23, 1994) at HCA New Port Richey Hospital. Born in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., he lived in St. Petersburg before moving to New Port Richey in 1959. He retired as a teacher from Gulf High School and was a member of Community Congregational Church, New Port Richey. He was a Navy veteran of World War II and a member of the Pearl of the West Masonic Lodge and American Legion, both of New Port Richey. Survivors include two brothers, George, New Port Richey, and Henry, Altoona, Pa.; and two sisters, Maria Brown, Long Island, N.Y., and Theresa Bowman, Denver. North/Meadowlawn Funeral Home, New Port Richey.

MANNELLI, MARIO CARL, 53, New Port Richey, died July 5, 2012. Survived by son, Mario, II; daughter, Tenille; 2 grands; brother, Michael. Visit Mon 6 – 8 pm Michels & Lundquist Funeral Home. [GHS Class of 1977]

MANTICOS, GUS S., 75, of Tarpon Springs, born May 9, 1945, died July 18, 2020. He is survived by sister, Teena; daughters, Christine and Stephanie; ex-wife, Kathy; and seven grandchildren. Dobies FH/Tarpon Springs. [Manticos, who had been a dean at Hudson High School, transferred to Gulf Comprehensive High School in November 1975.]

MAPES SR., PAUL DAVID, 71, of Hudson, died Oct. 28, 2017. Survived by wife, Rita; son, Paul David Jr.; daughter, Lisa; sisters, Marilyn, Donna, Joah Jean, and Cindy; and many grands. Morgan FH [GHS Class of 1964]

MAPHET, JOSEPH, beloved son, brother, uncle, and fiance was taken by the Lord on July 15, 2020. Jason was born on November 6, 1974 in Orange, New Jersey to Paul and Elisabeth Maphet. He called Chipley, FL home for almost 20 years. Jason had a heart of gold, a contagious smile, and would do anything for anyone. Jason left a special mark on everyone he came in contact with. Jason loved his family and friends fiercely, and lived to ride his Harley Davidson. He was a loyal brother to the Iron Legacy MC where he served as a Chapter President. Jason is survived by his mother: Elisabeth Maphet, father: Paul Maphet, sister: Robyn Maphet, nephew: Wyatt and fiance: Nicole Gieraltowski. Jason has gone home to be with the Lord, leaving behind broken hearts and endless fond memories. The world is a little less brighter, but the heavens are shining for they gained a beautiful angel. Ride the heavens, Jason. Memorialization will be by cremation with Obert Funeral Home of Chipley, Florida in charge of arrangements. To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Jason Maphet, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

MARCHMAN, FRED K., 93, of New Port Richey, died Saturday (Feb. 19, 2005) at Community Hospital of New Port Richey. Born in Daleville, Ala., he came here 71 years ago from Plant City. He was a former principal at Richey Elementary School and was appointed Superintendent of Pasco County Schools. He was an Army captain and a veteran of World War II. He was a member of Paradise Post 79, the American Legion, the Gulfcoast Amateur Radio Club and the Florida Retired Educators Association. He was Methodist. Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Marguerite; two sons, Frederick, Tarpon Springs, Richard, Jamestown, Colo.; three grandchildren; and a great-grandson. Michels and Lundquist Funeral Home, New Port Richey. [More information is here.]

MARCHMAN, MARGUERITE C., 88, of New Port Richey, formerly of Plant City, died Thursday (Oct. 6, 2005) at Southern Pines Nursing Center, New Port Richey. Born in Ocala, she came here 65 years ago from Plant City. She was a teacher for the Pasco County School System. She was a member of the Florida Retired Educators Association, the Daughters of the American Revolution, the United Daughters of the Confederacy, the Questers, Southern Dames, West Pasco Historical Society and the Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority. She was Methodist. Survivors include two sons, Frederick K., Tarpon Springs, and Richard L., Jamestown, Colo.; a brother, Kenneth G. Cassels, Salt Springs; three grandchildren; and one great-grandson. Michels-Lundquist Funeral Home, New Port Richey.

MARCHMAN, RICHARD L. “DICK,” 66, of Lyons Colorado passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 9, 2014, after rescuing a stranded hiker in the Brainard Lake Recreational Area. Dick was born in Dunedin, FL to Frederick and Marguerite Marchman. After graduating valedictorian from Gulf High School in 1965, Dick attended the home of the Gators, University of Florida. Shortly after he entered the United States Air Force and served from 1967-1973. The majority of his service was spent at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver as a Technical Instructor. Dick started Astral Communications in 1977 with Bob McLaughlin and Bob Locher. Dick’s main contribution was developing the technical work for two way radios and emergency phone systems in the Rocky Mountain canyons. His work showed his passion for providing valuable rescue resources for local authorities. Dick spent 50 years as a Ham Operator for KF0LA and 25 years as an EMT with Allenspark and Indian Peaks FPD. He was liked by everyone in the emergency service field, as an outstanding volunteer firefighter and a friend. Dick is survived by his wife, Susan Harford Marchman; brother Fred (Gail Love) Marchman; daughter Nikki (Jeremy) Dean and her mother Heide Abbey; two grandsons, Connor Matthew and Logan Joshua Dean; and nephews Brian and Brent Marchman. Funeral service will be held 10 am Thursday July 17, 2014 at Crist Mortuary, 3395 Penrose Pl. Boulder. Interment to follow 12:15 pm at Ft. Logan National Cemetery Staging Area C, Denver, CO, In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Dick’s honor to any local volunteer Fire Department.

MARLOWE, RICHARD, Class of 1978, died from complications of a staph infection.

MARQUIS, JASON DANIEL, 25, of Silver Spring, Md., died Tuesday (March 20, 2001) at home in Silver Spring. Born in New Port Richey, he moved to Silver Spring two years ago. He was a registered nurse at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, D.C., for the last 18 months. He was a graduate of the University of Florida in Gainesville where he received his nursing degree. Survivors include his father, David Sr., Port Huron, Mich.; his mother and stepfather, Rita L. and Gary A. Phillips, New Port Richey; a brother, David Paul Marquis Jr., and a sister, Jennifer Lynn Marquis, both of New Port Richey; paternal grandmother, Mary Marquis, Spring Hill, a nephew, David Paul III, and a niece, Jorden Ashleigh, both of New Port Richey. Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Homes, New Port Richey.

MARRS, AGNES ALINE, 92, of Anaheim, Calif., formerly of New Port Richey, died Friday (Aug. 13, 2004) at Western Medical Center in Santa Ana, Calif. She was born in Kendrick and moved to Anaheim in 2001 from New Port Richey. She was a 1931 graduate of Gulf High School of New Port Richey. She was a 20-year volunteer pink lady at Hardee Memorial Hospital. She was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Wauchula. She was a homemaker. Survivors include her daughter, Kathleen Christina Marrs, Yorba Linda, Calif.; a sister, Audree M. Heisey, New Port Richey; two nephews, Alex Bell, Tarpon Springs, and Mark Gamble, Shelby Township, Mich.; and five nieces, Marlyn Jones, Loretta Gamble and Carla Wilson, all of New Port Richey, Rebecca Morgan, Fort Collins, Colo., and Bonnie Cabe, Clayton, N.C. Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Homes, New Port Richey.

MARSH, ROBERT J. Robert J. Marsh, retired educator, died after a long illness at HCA New Port Richey Friday. He was 69. For more than 40 years, Marsh taught children. His teaching career began in a one-room school house in Michigan where he taught kindergarten through eighth grade. He came to Pasco County 23 years ago, first teaching in Dade City and later at Land O’ Lakes High School. In addition to teaching, Marsh was also dean of Saint Leo College for two years and principal at Gulf High School for three years. But his first love was always teaching, his wife, Mary, said. “He loved it,” she said. “Teaching was his life. Children learned from him.” Marsh’s efforts earned him many awards, including numerous Teacher of the Year nominations and a Service to Mankind Award from the Sertoma Club in 1980. But his biggest award came in the form of a letter from a former student, Mrs. Marsh said. The student, who wrote Marsh three years ago, said that if not for his kindness and guidance, she wouldn’t have been able to pursue her dreams. “That shows you what kind of a man he was,” Mrs. Marsh said. After he retired from teaching three years ago, he still tutored children in English, Mrs. Marsh said. He couldn’t be away from it, she said. Marsh is survived by his wife; two sons, Robert, Seattle, Wash., and Thomas, New Port Richey; two brothers, Jeoffrey Chidlaw, Virginia, and David Chidlaw, Champaign, Ill.; a sister, Caroline Marvin, Lockport, N.Y.; and two grandchildren. A memorial service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church in Holiday. North Funeral Home in New Port Richey is handling arrangements. St. Petersburg Times, March 26, 1990.

MARSH, THOMAS, 52, died August 15, 2011. He is survived by his daughter, Hillary; granddaughter, Angie; and brother, Bob. Dobies FH, Congress Chapel, (727) 868-4441

MARSH, THOMAS A. (ANDY), 23, of New Port Richey, died Sept. 23, 2010. Survived by parents, Thomas D. Marsh, Lori Teskey; sister, Hilary; niece, Angie; Several aunts, uncles, cousins. Dobies F.H.-Congress. [Class of 2005]

MARTELL, Joseph J. (W.O.J.), 34, passed away March 29, 2008. He was born in LaCrosse, WI, and came to New Port Richey 20 years ago from there. He had lived in Homosassa for the past 2 years. He was an asphalt plant operator for C. W. Roberts Co., in Wildwood. He was a member of the Sand Hill Hunt Club, Perry, FL, and was an avid hunter and fisherman. Joseph is survived by his parents, Kenneth & Mary Martell; a son, Travis, all of New Port Richey; 2 sisters, Jennifer, New Port Richey & Susan Smith, Las Vegas, NV; maternal grandfather, Willie Antony, LaCrosse, WI & his companion Chris Piermatteo, Homosassa. The family will visit with friends Thursday, 6-8 pm at Michels & Lundquist Funeral Home 5228 Trouble Creek Road, New Port Richey 727-845-1957

MARTIN, CHRISTOPHER A. “CHRIS,” 29, of New Port Richey, died March 31, 2008. He was born July 14, 1978, in Clearwater. He went to Gulf High School in New Port Richey from approximately 1992-1994. He is survived by his wife, Misty Martin; 2 beautiful children, Christopher and Christalynn Martin; a loving mother, Donna Gause; 2 brothers, Daniel Martin and Steven Gause. Other family members include 2 aunts, Rhonda Olsen, and Glenda Kamardos, and 2 uncles, Philip Rose and Donald Rose, Jr. all of New Port Richey; and numerous cousins. The Funeral Service will be held today, April 8, at 12 pm. Dobies Funeral Home, Holiday 937-7555

MASSE, CHRISTOPHER STEPHEN, 21, New Port Richey, passed away Nov. 9, 2010. He was born in Holyoke, MA to Bruce and the late Barbara Masse and a 2007 graduate of Gulf High School. Survived by father, Bruce; step mother, Michele; brother, Jonathan; sister, Mariah; step brother, Shayne; step sisters, Bryona and Alyssa; 5 nieces and nephews. Christopher enjoyed playing basketball and time with family. His aspirations were to study accounting at PHCC. To celebrate his life, join us at Dobies Funeral Home, 6616 Congress St., New Port Richey, Nov. 15, 2- 4 pm and 6-8 pm with services at 7 pm.

MASON, JOSEPH GRAY IV 88, of Columbia, Tennessee, died November 5, 2023. He graduated from Gulf High School class of 1953 as class president. Joe Mason was born June 6, 1935 in Nashville and raised in Mt. Pleasant, Tennessee and New Port Richey, Florida.  He attended Vanderbilt University and then Montana State College when his parents moved to Butte, Montana.  Joe served in the Army as a draftsman and designed his parents’ home where he lived much of his life. Joe loved animals and over his life had horses, dogs and most recently, his beloved feline companion, Buddy. Joe taught high school and coached in Florida and Tennessee before becoming a full-time minister. The ministry was his true passion, and he was always ministering to others – friends, family and even strangers he would meet. Gardening was also important to Joe. He grew a wide variety of vegetables and enjoyed sharing his crop with others. Joe traveled to Israel 5 times and visited Greece and Korea. Joe was preceded in death by his parents – William (Bill) and Claudine (Huck) Mason. Survivors include his brother, Bill (Cheryl) Mason; niece, Maria (Stuart) Harvey; nephew, Scott (Billy) Mason; grandnephews Andrew and Jason Harvey. Joe was a faithful member of Trinity Family Church. Memorial Service officiated by Reverend Don Richey will be held on Friday, November 10 at 10:00, at Trinity Family Church 2628 Leah Circle, Columbia.

MATHENY, PAUL MICHAEL. Paul was born on January 31, 1956 and passed away on Sunday, December 24, 2017. Paul was a resident of Tarpon Springs, Florida at the time of passing. [GHS Class of 1974]

MATHEY, STEVEN, 19, of New Port Richey, died Saturday (May 13, 2000) at North Bay Hospital as the result of an automobile accident. He came here 15 years ago from his native Clearwater, and was employed by Specialty Pool Service, Tarpon Springs. He was a member of First Christian Church of Tarpon Springs, a graduate of Gulf High School class of 1999 and attended St. Petersburg Junior College. Survivors include his parents, Edward and Lugene Mathey, Holiday; a brother, Brian, Holiday; his paternal grandparents, Robert and Margaret Mathey, Clearwater; and his maternal grandmother, Patricia Roebuck, Dunedin. Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Homes, Holiday Chapel.

MATULEWICH, DENISE LYNN, 25, of Largo, formerly of Hudson, died Wednesday (March 8, 1995) at Largo Medical Center. Born in Nassau County, N.Y., she came here 18 years ago from Long Island, and was a nail technician and dancer for Rachel’s Dance Club. She was a Catholic. She attended Gulf High School, New Port Richey. Survivors include her mother and stepfather, Arlene and Richard Bondanza, Hudson; her father and stepmother, Michael and Linda Matulewich, Jupiter; a brother, Michael, Hudson; a sister, Laura Matulewich, Clearwater; her paternal grandmother, Lena Matulewich, New York; and maternal grandparents, Amelia and Stephen Fries, Port Richey. Bell Funeral Home, Bayonet Point.

MAVIS, ROBERT WILLIAM. Robert “Bobby” Mavis, age 40, of Land O’ Lakes, passed away on Wednesday November 13, 2019. He was born in Boonton, New Jersey and moved to New Port Richey, Florida when he was 8. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Mavis; sons, Kyle (18) and Evan (8); and daughter, Kendall (5); his mother, Cynthia Van Dunk; father, Leonard Van Dunk; brother, Eric Mavis and his wife, Katrina Mavis, and their son, Scott; and sister, Calena DeSouza and her husband, Marco DeSouza. Bobby was an avid sports fan and shared his love of baseball with his son, Evan. Together the two attended many sports events and planned to travel the country visiting the different baseball stadiums. He was always up for spending time with family and friends, and was one of the best people to be around; whether attending car shows, having water balloon fights, playing softball, or hanging by the pool, it was sure to be a good time in his company. Bobby was an amazing husband and father. He always put his family first and was there to support each member in whatever way he could. He was kind, loving, selfless, and someone everyone was naturally drawn to. He is loved by so many and will be missed greatly by everyone. [Robert was killed in a traffic accident.]

MAYO, MICHAEL A. “MIKE,” 25, of Clearwater, formerly of Holiday and New Port Richey, died Wednesday (Sept. 27, 2006) at home. Born in Hammond, Ind., he came to Florida in 1988 from Chicago. He was a petty officer second class in the Coast Guard stationed in Clearwater, and attended Calvary Chapel, Holiday. Survivors include his mother and stepfather, Richard and Laury McKenna, Holiday; his father, Michael Aloi, Calumet City, Ill.; two sisters, Misty Jean McKenna and Kaylee Ann McKenna, both of Holiday; his maternal grandfather, George Mayo, Melbourne; and his paternal grandfather, Philip McKenna, Flat Creek, Ga. Veterans Funeral Care, Clearwater.

MAYTUM, WILLIAM C. William C. (Bill) Maytum was a lifelong resident of New Port Richey, attending Pierce Elementary School, and was one of 30 graduates from Gulf High School’s Class of 1952. Lasting friendships were forged during those formative years and many of those friends continued to call him “Billy”. He was proud of the education he received at GHS and to be known as a “Florida Cracker”! After graduation, he joined the United States Air Force. He served four years which included a tour in Korea. SSgt. Maytum was an electronics technician and completed his military time at Calumet, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula coping with the freezing temperatures and snow – difficult for a Florida boy. Upon returning to civilian life, he married, settled down in New Port Richey and started an electrical contracting business. He served on the City of New Port Richey Electrical Contractors’ Board and later on the Pasco County Board, and was instrumental in writing early electrical safety codes. He also owned and operated the Palm Harbor Water Utility and performed electrical work and consulting services for many of Pasco County’s privately owned utilities. In addition to serving on several boards, he was a charter member of the Pasco County Historic Preservation Committee. Bill served six terms on the New Port Richey City Council. His grandfather, William Critchley, and his father, Joseph Maytum, also served as City Councilmen. Additionally, Bill served as President of the Richey Suncoast Theatre for four years. He was an avid aviation enthusiast providing hundreds of Young Eagle flights for area youth through the local Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter. He was recognized by the EAA for having given the 300,000th Young Eagle his first flight. In addition to flying, he was a lifelong amateur photographer working in large format, black and white photos mostly documenting area history. Many of his photographs were donated to the West Pasco Historical Society and are viewable on their website. Bill loved his church and served at FUMCNPR as trustee and on many committees. He was the general handyman, but the food ministry was his focus. He enjoyed

MCCART, BRUCE EDWARD, 59, of Hudson, died Tuesday (Sept. 5, 2006) at home. Born in Franklin, Pa., he came here 44 years ago from North Irwin, Pa. He was an Air Force veteran working as an aircraft mechanic in the Vietnam War. He had been an assistant principal at Hudson High School. He earned his master’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi and bachelor?s degree from the University of South Florida. He was an alumnus of University of Southern Mississippi, Krewe of Chasco, member and state president of Retreads Motorcycle Club, and member of Beacon Community Church. Survivors include his wife, Janie; two sons, Sean McCart, New Port Richey, and Brian VanWinkle, Elizabeth City, N.C.; a daughter, Holly DiFabio, Hudson; his mother, Vivian “Dot” McCart, and a brother, Craig, both of Hudson; and four grandchildren. Michels & Lundquist Funeral Home, New Port Richey.

MCCART, KEITH, 59, of Hudson, died Saturday (Oct. 9, 2004) at Hernando-Pasco Hospice Care Center, New Port Richey. Born in Bradford, Pa., he came here a month ago from Cairo, Ga., and was a former resident of this area. A 1963 graduate of Gulf High School, he was a purchasing manager for Seminole Marine, Cairo, an Air Force veteran of Viet Nam, and Christian. Survivors include a daughter, Jennifer Bisping, Safety Harbor; his mother, Vivian McCart, and two brothers, Bruce and Craig, all of Hudson; and several nieces and nephews. Michels and Lundquist Funeral Home, New Port Richey.

McCART, WILLIAM, 74, of New Port Richey, died Monday (Nov. 21, 1994) at home. Born in Gilford, County Down, Ireland, he came here 33 years ago from North Irwin, Pa. He was a minister at Port Richey Community Church and a member of River Ridge Presbyterian Church, New Port Richey. He was a member of P. A. L., a former member of the Optimist Club, and the founding vice president of the O. P. Morganthaler Foundation, all of New Port Richey, a former dispatcher for the New Port Richey Police Department, and a patient counselor at St. Luke’s Eye Clinic. Survivors include his wife, Vivian R. “Dot” three sons, William Keith, Panama City, Bruce Edward, Hudson, and Craig Alan, Hudson; seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Michels-Lundquist Funeral Home, New Port Richey. [GHS faculty]

McCAULEY, KAREN ANN, 48, of Largo, died Dec. 23, 2011. Survived by loving family. Memorial Service, Saturday, Jan. 7, at 1 pm, Florida Memorial Gardens, Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill. Dobies F.H., Tarpon Springs [Karen Croft was in the GHS Class of 1981]

McCORMICK, TIMOTHY SHAWN, 62, of Holiday, FL, died August 12, 2019 from cancer. Tim was raised in Madison, Ohio and move to Florida in 1970. After graduating from Gulf High School, he moved west to Las Vegas and then Phoenix but returned to Florida where he worked in construction and trucking. Tim was preceded in death by his father, Thomas McCormick. Tim is survived by his mother, Bonnie McCormick; brothers, Michael (Judy) McCormick, Gary (Nancy) McCormick, Mark McCormick, Tony McCormick; and sisters, Patricia (George) Truell and Kim (Paul) Hart as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Per Tim’s request there will be no service. The family would like to thank Moffitt Cancer Center and the outstanding help and guidance from Hernando-Pasco Hospice.

McEACHERN, RICHARD J. of Carver [Massachusetts], formerly of Florida died after a brief illness on October 4, 2008. Born on October 4, 1972 in Quincy, Richard lived in Carver, then Florida. He graduated from Gulf High School in Florida and then later graduated from Cape Cod Community College for Nursing. The beloved son of Angus A. McEachern Sr. and the late Barbara J. (Hutchins) McEachern. He is survived by 7 brothers, Angus McEachern, Jr. of Kingston, Frederick McEachern of Quincy, George & William McEachern both of Carver, John McEachern of Weymouth, Robert McEachern of Bridgewater, Thomas McEachern of Florida and the late Joseph McEachern. He is also survived by 6 sisters, Christine Williams and Jeanne Marr both of Carver, Eleanor Wright of NH, Teresa O’Sullivan of Pembroke and Beverly Cook and Maryanne Carmack both of FL. Richard is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the Life Celebration Service in Keohane Funeral Home, 785 Hancock St., QUINCY, Friday at 9:15am. Funeral Mass in Saint Ann’s Church, Wollaston at 10am. Memorial visitation will be on Thursday 4- 8 PM. [GHS ’91]

McGINNIS, TINA, Class of 1978, died in 2012.

McGOVERN, FRANK, died on May 23, 2016. GHS Class of 1987.

McINTYRE, HAROLD (MAC), 83, of 153 Virginia Ave., New Port Richey, died Friday (Oct. 24, 1980). Born in Pleasantville, Pa., he came here 43 years ago from Columbus, Ohio.. He was a retired teacher in the Pasco County school system. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of New Port Richey. He is past post commander of the American Legion Paradise Post 79, New Port Richey, for the years 1940-41. He was a member of the VFW. He was also a former council member for the City of New Port Richey in 1948. He was a member of the Pasco Harmonizers, a barbershop quartet. He was also a member of the Retired Teachers Organization of Florida. Survivors include his wife Margaret of New Port Richey; one son, James, of Virginia, and four grandchildren. Friends may call today from 3 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Riverside Chapel North Funeral Home, the Rev. Walter Cross of the First United Methodist Church officiating. Cremation.

McINTYRE, MARGARET M. “PEGGY,” 90, of New Port Richey, died Monday (Dec. 5, 1994) at HCA New Port Richey Hospital. Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, she came here 56 years ago from Columbus, Ohio. She was a manager for the cafeteria at Gulf High School, a member of the First United Methodist Church and an adult leader of its youth fellowship. She was an officer of the American Legion Auxiliary Paradise Post 79. Survivors include a son, James, New Port Richey; and three grandchildren. Morgan Funeral Home, New Port Richey.

McKAY, CHESTER. Local Boy Is Listed As Lost In the Atlantic. Parent of Chester McKay Advised That Their Son Died While On Duty At Sea. War and what it means in terms of grief and pain and sudden death was brought sharply to the consciousness of New Port Richey and Pasco county people when news was received last Sunday by Mr. and Mrs. J. W. McKay of this city that their son Chester Rufus McKay had lost his life in line of duty while serving with the naval forces of his country in the Atlantic. It was the first casualty of the war so far announced as from this county affecting those in active duty in any war zone. Chester McKay was 31 years of age. He came to New Port Richey with his parents (illegible) years ago, and received his early education at the local schools. Fourteen years ago he enlisted in the navy and his terms of enlistment had sent him to many parts of the world. Lately he had been serving in Atlantic waters, with rank of boatswain second class, and his last address given was as a member of the crew of the supply ship Pollux, which was officially announced as being sunk in (illegible section). He was a most likable chap, and his friends were numbered by acquaintances — and they were many. The news of his passing came to this community as a considerable shock, tempered only by the fact that all knew that he had set an example in passing by accepting his dangerous duty bravely and was staunch at his post when the final challenge came. Besides his parents survivors are three brothers: W. Allen of Brockton, Mass.; Geo. L., New Port Richey; J. Gordon, St. Petersburg. New Port Richey Press, Feb. 27, 1942.

McLAUGHLIN, Richard Steven Jr. of New Port Richey, died June 1, 2008. Survived by mother, Deana; father, Richard, Sr.; sister, Kathleen. Dobies Funeral Home Congress dobiesfuneralhome.com

McLEOD, MARY MARGARET GIBBS. Sept 4, 1942 – July 16, 2014. Mary Margaret Gibbs McLeod was called home to be with our heavenly father on July 16, 2014, after a ten month struggle with cancer. She was born Sept. 4, 1942 in Boaz, Al. She graduated from Gulf High School in New Port Richey, Fl. An alumni of Livingston University she attended UAB where she obtained a masters degree. She taught for 33 years in various schools and finished as librarian at Oak Grove High after 23 years. She was a member of Concord Baptist Church where she served as Sunday School teacher, a member of the choir and church clerk. She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Thomas W. McLeod; sons and their wives, David (Brenda), James (DeAnna) Steven (Hope); grandchildren, Mary Beth, Josh, Caleb, Jameson, Dawson, Grayson and Serah; step-granddaughters, Marisa and Amanda; brothers and their wives, Thomas E. Gibbs (Donna), and James A. Gibbs (Elizabeth). Visitation will be Thursday, July 17, 2014 at Concord Baptist Church from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. Funeral service will be Friday at 2:00 PM at the church with Bro. Joe Guthrie officiating. Burial will follow at Rock Creek Church of God Cemetery. In lieu of flowers family requests that memorial be made to Concord Baptist Church. [GHS Class of 1960]

McMICKLE, CARL EDWARD “ED,” 69, New Port Richey, died Friday (Nov. 4, 2005) at Marliere Care Center, New Port Richey. He came here in 1939 from Valdosta, Ga. He was a retired Master Sergeant in the Army Corps of Engineers with 22 years of service, a Vietnam veteran, a bell captain at Innisbrook, and was Christian. He attended Tarpon Spring Elementary and Gulf High School. Survivors include his wife of 44 years, Joan; three daughters, Lisa McClure, Holiday, Laurie Easley, Hoover, Ala., and Lorna Fogg, New Port Richey; a brother, Walt McMickle; a sister, Paat Hamill, Tarpon Springs; nine grandchildren; and a great-grandchild. Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Homes, Hudson.

McPHERON, LINDA, who taught at Gulf High School in the 1970s, died on July 8, 2014. She was born on Aug. 27, 1946. She was originally known as Mrs. LaGasse until she married Michael McPheron. Coach McPheron died in 1999. After leaving Gulf, she continued in education in Pinellas County. An article at tampabay.com is here.

McVEY, ROBERT J. 58, a bowling center manager, of Las Vegas, passed away July 19, 2016. He was born Dec. 10, 1957, in Port Jefferson, N.Y., to Constance and Hugh McVey, and was a resident of Nevada since 1991. Robert was a loving and devoted husband, father, uncle and friend. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, John. He is survived by his wife, of 27 years, Donna; and son, David Ward. Memorial service will be at 4 p.m. Saturday, July 23, at Palm Mortuary, 7979 W. Warm Springs Road, Las Vegas, NV 89113. [GHS Class of 1976]

MEHLER, LANCE, died on Oct. 3, 2010. Gulf High School Class of 1983.

MENICOLA, JOSEPH, February 04, 1968 – January 13, 2018, age 49, of Port Richey, passed away on January 13, 2018. He was born in Passiac, New Jersey to Joseph and Marie Menicola on February 4, 1968. He was the owner of Bright and Clean Company. He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia, his son, Joseph, his daughter, Brittany and his parents, Joseph and Marie, his brother, Anthony Menicola. A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2018 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm at Prevatt Funeral Home, 7709 St Rd 52, Hudson, FL 34667. A mass will be held at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 5340 High St, New Port Richey, FL 34652. [GHS Class of 1985 or 1986]

MERCADO, CARLOS, was born on May 17, 1968, and died on Sept. 15, 1996. He is survived by a daughter, Chelsea Mercado.

MERCER, MARGARET M., 81, of New Port Richey, died Tuesday (Oct. 16, 2001) at Southern Pines Nursing Center in New Port Richey. She came here in 1971 from her native Chicago. She retired as a teacher from Gulf High School in New Port Richey. She was a graduate of Northeastern Illinois State University with a master’s in English Literature and was an honorary member of Phi Beta Kappa. She was a member of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church. Survivors include a son, George Barkes, Webbers Falls, Okla.; two daughters, Dorothy Kathan, McHenry, Ill., and Susan Huju, Bigfork, Minn.; 10 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Homes, New Port Richey.

MERCOGLIANO, MICHAEL J., 15, of New Port Richey, died Wednesday (Feb. 5, 1997) at home. He was born in Dunedin and was a student at Gulf High School. Survivors include his mother, Cindy, New Port Richey; his father and stepmother, Michael and Kathy Mercogliano, Miami; a brother, Paul Nobles, New Port Richey; a sister, Dina, New Port Richey; his paternal grandmother, Connie Gene, Cooper City; and his maternal grandmother, Era Tucker, Trenton. Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Home, Bartelt Road Chapel, Holiday.

METHERELL, TERRY L., 51, of New Port Richey, died Saturday (Dec. 21, 1996) at Columbia New Port Richey Hospital. He came here 42 years ago from his native Mount Holly, N. J. He was an electrician and was Protestant. Survivors include his wife, Connie; a son Jared, New Port Richey; a daughter, Janine, New Port Richey; his mother, Albert Davies, New Port Richey; a brother, Treman Russell Jr., New Port Richey; and a sister, Maryann Reilly, Live Oak. Family Funeral Care, Hudson. [GHS Class of 1964]

MIELKE, KENNETH CHARLES, 26, of Chicago, IL, passed away on June 20, 2012. He was a graduate of Gulf High School. He is survied by his mother, Debora Mielke (Billy Moses); his father, James Julian (Mary); stepsister, Kristine Parrott; stepbrother, Chris Moses; his loving grandmother, aunts uncles and cousins both here and in Illinois. The family will receive friends at Michels and Lundquist Funeral Home, 5228 Trouble Creek Road from 4-6 pm Thursday with a service at 6 pm.

MIHALINEC, GERALD “JERRY,” 68, of Clearwater passed June 11, 2019. He was a 1968 Gulf High School graduate.

MILLARD, BETTY JEAN (NORFLEET), 79, of Aripeka, died Feb. 8, 2017. Survived by children, Debbie, Lauri, Perry; 5 grands; 11 great-grands; siblings, Wayne, John, Joe, Carl, and Carol. Dobies/Hudson Services were Monday, Feb. 13, at Aripeka Baptist Church. Gulf High School Class of 1953.

MILLER, MARTIN WALLACE, 63, of Holiday, died Nov. 17, 2016. He is survived by his loving family. Michels & Lundquist F.H., New Port Richey, FL. [GHS Class of 1971]

MITCHELL, KATHERINE LORRAINE (PITCOCK), 64, was peacefully called home by our Lord May 16, 2021. Born April 24, 1957 in Homestead, Florida, Lorraine and her family were fortunate enough to have lived in various cities and countries during her father’s time in the Air Force, including stays in Paris, France, Pensacola and New Jersey. The family eventually settled in New Port Richey shortly before Lorraine started high school and quickly became well-known in the city. Following her graduation from Gulf High School in 1975, she went on to attend Franklin College in Indiana and became a member of the Delta Zeta sorority. Following graduation from Franklin, Lorraine returned to Florida and began working in child abuse investigations. She served the children and families of the State of Florida for 37 years before retiring, working as a supervisor over adult and child abuse investigations. Lorraine always loved her work and believed it was her purpose to be a voice for the voiceless, making an impact on everyone she met. Lorraine was a devoted member of The Chapel, and loved diving with her husband, bowling with her girlfriends, vacationing in the Keys and New Orleans, boating, and spending time with those she loved, ensuring we all knew how she felt about us each time. Lorraine was a courageous, faithful and loving friend to many, and will be missed more than words can express. She is preceded in death by her husband of 33 years, David; their infant son; her brother, Chuck Pitcock Jr.; her father, Charles “Chuck” Pitcock Sr.; and her mother, Katherine (Lambert) Hirstius. She is survived by her daughter and best friend, Katie (Mike) Mitchell-Gregory; her “best girl” and granddaughter, Caroline Gregory; her sister, Kara Pitcock; her brother, Kyle (Eileen) Pitcock; her nephew, Charlie Pitcock; her sister-in-law, Joni (Taddie) Pitcock; and multiple dear friends and family. To know her was to love her. A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, May 23, 2021, at Gulf Landings Clubhouse, 6035 Barefoot Ct., New Port Richey, FL 34652, 1-5 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to “Lorraine’s Kids” at Youth and Family Alternatives (YFA) or in Lorraine’s name to the Pasco County SPCA.

MITCHELL, DAVID, 68, passed into the arms of our Lord on July 5, 2020. He has been reunited with his father, Dewey; mother, Sally (Musser); and his brother, Wayne. He leaves behind his loving and devoted wife of 33 years, Lorraine (Pitcock); his daughter, Katie (Mike) Gregory; his maternal uncle, John (Pat) Musser; and the light of his life, granddaughter, Caroline Gregory. Born July 12, 1951, in Saginaw, Michigan, David moved to Florida as a child of eight, and immediately became the personification of a Floridian. He and his family caught and raised local tropical fish, collected artifacts, fossils, and retraced the history of prehistoric Florida, pursuing the richness of our Florida’s wildlife and bounty. After graduating from Gulf High School 1969, he perfected scuba diving, becoming so proficient at it that it was said he had grown “gills.” He dove, fished, and sponged the Gulf coast waters scouring the shorelines for fossils and artifacts at times earning a living from the land and water. He took to the backwaters of Florida’s rivers and ponds diving and fossil hunting all over north Florida. He especially loved the Suwannee and oftentimes would dive the dark river depths and shallows alone all day stopping only occasionally to change air tanks. He loved reading everything about Florida History, Key West, Folklore and Clive Cussler books, and never missed a Jimmy Buffet Concert. Although he had many enterprises, his primary vocation was that of a state certified Roofing and Building contractor but was most well-known for embracing life, loving his friends, and cherishing his family. David Mitchell was known by many and truly, truly, never met a stranger. He will be missed beyond belief. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, July 12, 2020 at Gulf Landings Clubhouse 6035 Barefoot Ct. New Port Richey, FL 34652 from 2-5 pm. The family requests all in attendance to wear masks in order to comply with Pasco County’s mandate.

MOREA, ROSE M. “BUDGIE,” 73, of New Port Richey, died Monday (June 26, 2006) in the Madison Pointe Nursing Center New Port Richey. Born in New York City, she came here in 1988 from Hazlet, N.J. She was a former cafeteria worker at Gulf High School of New Port Richey with 17 years of service. She was a member of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. Survivors include her husband of more than 50 years, Joseph; a son, David, Riverview; two daughters, Diane Noyes, New Port Richey, and Debbie Brennan, Keansburg, N.J.; two brothers, Salvatore Policastri, Hudson, and Joseph Policastri, North Vale, N.J.; five sisters, Helen Shade, Kempton, Pa.; Madeline Daly and Joyce Sellars, both of Bethlehem, Pa.; Dolores Dickens and Margaret Zambrano, both of Spring Hill; and seven grandchildren. Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Homes, New Port Richey.

MORGAN, EDWIN JAMES, 70, of Hudson, FL, passed away on May 17, 2011. He was born on December 3, 1940, in Patterson, NJ and raised in Pompton Lakes, NJ. Edwin survived by his loving wife of 30 years Mollie J. Morgan. Edwin is also survived by 4 daughters, Lillian Banter, Hudson, FL, Linda McKinney, Hudson, FL, Nola Clouthier, Georgia, and Dollie Maske of Maine; one son, John Luke, Hudson, FL; 12 grandchildren and raised 3, Mistie Bazsuly, Dave Walker and Patricia Ogletree as his own. He is also survived by 37 great-grandchildren and one is on the way; and 2 great-great grandchildren. Edwin was a Forest Ranger, firefighter, and label weaver in New Jersey. In 1972 Edwin moved to Holiday, FL and began working as a custodian for Pasco County School Board for 36 years, retiring from Gulf High School. He enjoyed spending time with his family who love and miss him very dearly. Arrangements under the direction of North/Meadowlawn Funeral Home & Cemetery, New Port Richey, FL.

MORGAN, FRANK L. “BUD,” 75, of New Port Richey, died Thursday (Oct. 9, 2003) at home while under the care of the Hernando Pasco Hospice. Born in Louisville, he came to Florida in 1970 from Raton, N.M. He was a retired mechanic employed by Fairway Nissan and Sun Toyota. He was a Navy veteran of the Korean War. He was an associate pastor at the New Life Family Church. Survivors include his wife, Malissa; five daughters, Cindi Morgan and Carrie Brooks, both of New Port Richey; Denise Daniels, Bartlesville, Okla.; Linda Zissou, Thousand Oaks, Calif.; and Mimi Kelly, Broken Arrow, Okla.; 13 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. North/Meadowlawn Funeral Home & Cemetery, New Port Richey. [Mr. Morgan’s granddaughter, Malissa Brooks (GHS ’02) writes that her grandfather was in the class of 1945, and that he died of lung cancer. She says he was proud that he played on the Gulf High football team that made it to the championship. He was born on Nov. 22, 1927.]

MORROW, KENNETH J., 47, of Port Richey died April 25, 2011. Survived by wife, Charlene; his father; 4 sisters. visitation on Friday, April 29th, 11 am-12:30 pm. Faupel Funeral Home 727-849-9964. [GHS Class of 1982]

MORTENSEN, REV. ROBERT E., 93, of New Port Richey, and a former resident of St. Petersburg, died at Community Hospital in New Port Richey as a result of complications from a fall, on Thursday, Nov. 29, 2007. Born on Sept. 13, 1914, in Atlantic City, NJ, he grew up in Collingswood, NJ, and later graduated from Eastern Nazarene College in Wollaston, MA. He was the son of the late Jacob and Amalia (Lovdahl) Mortensen. He is survived by a son, Geren W. Mortensen and wife Claudine; a daughter, Sharon E. Meece and husband Ben; three grandchildren; and three great-grandsons. He was preceded in death by his wife, Grace (Barnett) Mortensen, a brother, Gustav Mortensen, and a sister May (Mortensen) Patchell. Rev. Mortensen and his wife traveled in evangelism and held several pastorates in the northeast. In 1956 they moved to St. Petersburg and founded Bayshore Community Church, which first met at Madeira Beach Elementary School and then moved to its own building on Park Street and 40th Avenue. Rev. Mortensen later obtained a master’s degree in education with a major in counseling at the University of Florida and became the first full-time guidance counselor for Gulf High School in New Port Richey in 1969. He and his wife later developed several trailer park ministries, the longest of which he pastored for 10 years at Oak Springs in Port Richey. In addition, he conducted services at New Port Colony in New Port Richey, where he lived until his death. After his retirement in 1989 he continued to serve and minister to others by doing visitation work through the First Baptist Church of New Port Richey and later with the First United Methodist Church of Hudson. This included hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation and assisted living centers. Visitation will be at 11 am on Monday, Dec. 3, followed by the funeral service at 12 noon. Arrangements are being handled by Moss Feaster Funeral Home, Palm Harbor Chapel, 2250 Highlands Blvd. N. In lieu of flowers, those who desire may make contributions to the church of their choice. Moss Feaster Funeral Home Palm Harbor Chapel 727-562-2090

MORTON, THOMAS HERBERT. November 22, 1959 – September 24, 2019. Thomas Herbert Morton, 59, of New Port Richey passed away September 24, 2019. Michels-Lundquist Funeral Home will be handling the arrangements. He will be dearly missed by his loving family and friends. [GHS Class of 1978]

MRAZ-DUNN, GRETEL E., 53, of Hudson, died July 12, 2018. Survived by husband, Wayne; son, Hunter; daughter, Velvet; siblings, Chris, Rudi, Elsie and lnge; three grands. Morgan Funeral Home. [GHS Class of 1982]

MULROY, ALYSSA JEAN. January 11, 1997 – June 1, 2016. Alyssa Jean Mulroy, 19, of New Port Richey, passed away on Wednesday, June 1st, 2016. Born in New Port Richey on January 11th, 1997, Alyssa was the daughter of devoted parents, Erin and Mike, and a wonderful older sister to her younger brother, Adam. She was a 2015 graduate of Gulf High School where she was a member of the National Honor Society, National English and Math Honor Societies, Student Council, Leo Club, and was a four-year varsity softball player. She had also just finished her first year of college at the University of South Florida where she majored in Business and earned her Associate’s Degree a year early. Alyssa excelled in school as well as on the softball field, receiving many awards for both. She was an incredibly intelligent, funny, and loving person who was passionate about dogs and music. Of all her activities, Alyssa’s favorite was spending time with her family. Along with her loving parents and brother, Alyssa leaves behind grandparents, Pete and Ellen Beck, and Yolanda Mulroy, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and an incredible extended family. A gathering of family and friends is to take place at the Michels & Lundquist Funeral Home on Tuesday, June 7, 2016 from 4:30 pm until 6:30 pm. A celebration of life is to follow at the funeral home starting at 6:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family please ask for donations to be made in her memory to the Labrador Retriever Rescue of Florida Foundation.

MUMMA, ORPHA L., 54, of Harts, W. Va., formerly of New Port Richey, died Sunday, Sept. 3, 2000, following an extended illness. She was a 1964 graduate of Gulf High School and also a graduate of Jones College, Jacksonville, Fla. Mrs. Mumma was an employee of Lincoln County Board of Education for 17 years as a special education aide and member of the Ferrellsburg Church of God. Survivors include husband, William; daughter, Sonya Marie Parsons, Ferrellsburg, W. Va.; parents, Billy J. and Pearl R. (Logan), Ferrellsburg; two step-grandchildren. Preceded in death by a stepson, William Scott Mumma. Funeral services were held Thursday, Sept. 7, 2000, at Freeman Funeral Home at Chapmanville, W. Va., and burial at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Pecks Mills, W. Va.

DELLIGATTI-MURTHI, KATHLEEN MARIE (NUTTING) (1961-2020). It is with great sadness and a broken heart that we inform you of the demise of Mrs. Kathleen Murthi, loving wife of Sriram Murthi and mother to her dear children Grant and Rohan Murthi. Kathy fought a brave battle with terminal lung cancer, besting it over 4 years, when the “Overall survival” statistics for her particular strain pointed to a survival period of a mere 15 months. Her valiant fight was selflessly fought so all of us could experience her love and caring – especially her family, friends and charities. Kathy began her career working several jobs to put herself through college and her persistence at the HSBC personnel office in Manhattan paid off when she was recruited there in the early 80s. Kathy worked for just under 2 decades at HSBC New York and later as a Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of Cash & Trade Technology at Bankers Trust (Deutsche Bank), in New York, overseeing US, Europe and Asia. She gave up her job to bring up her children and to travel and live in Paris, France and Hyderabad, India – foreign posting locations of her husband’s employer. Her charity work in Hyderabad caught the attention of many like-minded generous souls and her work output and energy in helping the ISH Hyderabad school in organizing student engagement was prolific. She organized a comprehensive charitable donation of over 2000 used computers to recipient NGOs throughout India, corralling resources from corporates such as HSBC, Microsoft and distribution support from a National Association of Chambers of Commerce. Much help for this initiative was provided by HSBC staff in Hyderabad. Kathy’s passion was travel, charity, her love for her many friends all over the world and her single and significant focus: her family. Other than her husband and children, Kathy is survived by her brother Michael (Joi), her brother Sean Patrick and her sister Mary Watts. She is predeceased by her twin sister AnnMarie Triolo, her brother Robert Nutting, her father John Nutting, her stepfather Lawrence Ford and her mother Ann Marie Ford. Memorial Service and viewing will be held on Sunday Dec 6, 2020 between 1-4 and 6-8 pm at Faupel Funeral Home on 7524 Ridge Road, Port Richey FL 34668. Church Mass service will be held on Monday Dec 7, 2020 at 11.30 a.m. at the Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church at 5340 High Street, New Port Richey FL 34652. Hindu cremation and religious services will be featured at the Morgan Funeral Home at 6025 Trouble Creek Road New Port Richey at 1.00 p.m. on Monday Dec 7, 2020 after the Church Mass service is complete, per Kathleen’s wishes. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to be made payable to “Pasco Hernando State College Foundation Inc (PHSC Foundation Inc)”, This foundation will collect proceeds towards the already created Kathleen Murthi Memorial Scholarship Fund by cheque or via Credit Card at website below:

https://giving.phsc.edu/

Scroll down to: Designation of Gift Select: Kathleen Murthi Memorial Scholarship Fund

GHS Class of 1979.

MUSSATT, SHAVONNE. Shavonne R. Sloan, 41, of 12 Letchworth St., Owasco, died unexpectedly Wednesday, May 2, 2007, at her home. Born in Memphis, Tenn, she was the daughter of Thomas and Vicki Mussatt. She was a graduate of New Port Richey High School in Florida and the University of Florida with a B.A. degree in English. She was employed as a teachers aide by BOCES and also worked part-time at the Skaneateles Country Club. Shavonne was a communicant of SS. Peter & John Episcopal Church, was active in the PTA at Owasco Elementary School, and a Junior Achievement volunteer. Surviving are her husband, Christopher R. Sloan; two daughters, Gillian Sara and Kira Elyse Sloan, both of Owasco; her parents, Thomas Mussatt of California and Vicki Pratt of Atlanta, Ga.; one sister, Monica Malchow of North Carolina; and a stepsister and stepbrother. Visiting hours are 3 to 7 p.m. Monday, May 7, at the Langham Funeral Home LLC, 75 E. Genesee St. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, in SS. Peter & John Episcopal Church, 169 Genesee St., with the Rev. Douglas Taylor-Weiss officiating. Burial will be in Lakeview Cemetery, Fleming. The family has requested the omission of flowers. A fund has been established for the education of Christopher and Shavonne’s two children. Donations may be made c/o Nancy Sloan, 115 N. Seward Ave., Auburn, NY 13021. [GHS ’83, from the Auburn (N. Y.) Citizen]

MYERS, KATHRYN (FRADDOSIO). LAKELAND – Kathryn Elizabeth Myers, age 92, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Saturday January 27, 2018. Kathryn was born in New Port Richey, Florida on November 14, 1925 to Antonio Fraddosio and Anne Lofton Fraddosio. She graduated from Gulf High School in 1945. She was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Lakeland. Kathryn was a resident of Lakeland for 51 years. She was telephone operator for 30 years until she retired in 1992. She is preceded in death by her parents, five sisters and three brothers. She is survived by her daughter, Sharon Vickers (Richard) and sons, Vernon Myers, Jr. (Cindy), Ronald Myers (Debbie), Robert Myers (Faye), Michael Myers (Lana), Richard Myers (Lor-etta). Kathryn has 14 grandchildren: Joseph Vickers, Mary Adair (Josh), Melissa Robertson (Neal), Matthew Myers (Dawn), Jackie Wells (Jose), Ron Myers, Jr. (Tricia), Sebastian Myers, Carina Myers, Lauren Skaar, Michael Myers, Jr. (Heather), Mindy Brabham (Nathan), Kimberly Willett (Chad), Lindsey Soto (Juan), Mitchell Myers. She has 17 great grandchildren. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be on January 31, 2018 from 9:00 am – 9:45 am St. Joseph Catholic Church 210 West Lemon Street Lakeland, Florida followed by Mass at 10:00 am, followed by grave side burial at Serenity Gardens, 3350 Mall Hill Drive, Lakeland. Flowers may be received or if you prefer a memorial donation may be made to Good Shepaherd Hospice or American Cancer Society. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.lanier.care

NAGEL, JULIE ANNE PARIZEK Julie Anne Nagel, 87, of New Port Richey, Florida, passed away on March 15th, 2024.  She was born in February, 1937, at the hospital in Tarpon Springs as New Port Richey, where her parents lived, did not have a hospital at the time.  She graduated from Gulf High in 1953, followed by FSU in 1958 with a bachelor’s degree in Education.  She was a stay at home Mother to her three children LouAnne Nagel of St. Petersburg, Gene Nagel Jr. of Indianapolis, and Chuck Nagel of New Port Richey.  These three children gave her and her husband, Gene Nagel Sr, nine grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren.  Julie also has a sister and brother, Barbara Kotimaki of New Port Richey and Richard Parizek of Seminole.  She started her professional career teaching at several schools in St. Petersburg and followed with a second career in Billing and Financial Counseling in the medical field.  She loved her family dearly and always supported and encouraged them to their full potential.  Some of the many things Julie enjoyed include a cottage on the beach, playing BINGO, and cruising.  She volunteered a good bit of her time over the years to the church teaching children’s choirs and playing the organ or piano as needed.  She will be remembered and missed dearly for her laugh, love of life and her family and friends.

NEHRING, DAVID LLOYD, 49, of Hudson, Florida passed away Saturday, June 29, 2013. He was born in Chicago, Illinois to Charles Nehring and Cynthia Marston. He was a store manager for Walgreen and of the Christian faith. He will be dearly missed by his loving family and friends. He is survived by his loving wife of 14 years Lori Anne Nehring; son Christopher David Nehring; mother Cynthia Nehring; sister Betty Jean Nehring. Visitation will be 2-4 & 6-8pm Monday, July 1, 2013 with a moment of reflection at 6:30pm by family and friends, followed by a vigil at 7pm located at Grace Memorial Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be 11am Tuesday, July 2, 2013 at Grace Memorial Funeral Home. Entombment will follow to Grace Memorial Gardens in Hudson, Florida. Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home 16931 US Hwy 19 Hudson, Fl. 34667. 727-863-5471 www.gracefuneralhomehudson.com. [GHS Class of 1982]

NEMETZ JR., PAUL ANDREW. September 9, 1970 – December 28, 2020. Paul Andrew Nemetz Jr., 50, of Holiday passed away December 28, 2020. Michels-Lundquist Funeral Home will be handling the arrangements. He will be dearly missed by his loving family and friends. GHS Class of 1990.

NEPTUNE, CAMERON G., 21, of Inverness, died Monday (April 30, 2007) in Palatka. He moved to Inverness in 1993 from Ashland, Ohio. A resident in New Port Richey from 2002 to 2005, he attended Gulf High School of New Port Richey and was a member of the wrestling team. He had been an assistant coach for Citrus Free Style Wrestling Club. Survivors include his mother, Dayle K. Neptune, and his father, Cary D. Neptune, both of Inverness; a sister, Rene Neptune, Pasadena, Calif.; three brothers, Cary Neptune II, Palatka, Cellin Neptune and Cody Neptune, both of Inverness; maternal grandparents, David Pearson, Palmetto, and Sondra Cornett, Tampa; and paternal grandmother, Anna Mae Leist, Millersburg, Ohio. Heinz Funeral Home & Cremation, Inverness.

NOBLE, PETE, 48, of New Port Richey, Fla., died December 19, 2007. He is survived by his daughter, Rachel Cooper; his mother, Blea Noble; two sisters, Terry Marcionette and Tina Reardon; two grandchildren, Madison and Austin. The family will receive friends from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday at Michels & Lundquist Funeral Home, 5228 trouble Creek Rd., New Port Richey, Fla., where a service will be conducted at 2 p.m. [GHS ’78]

NOBLES, JOSEPH R. JR., 17, of 213 Mockingbird Drive, died Saturday (Dec. 21, 1985). He came here nine years ago from his native Miami. He was a student at Gulf High School. He was a member of the DCT and the Astronomy Club. He attended St. Vincent DePaul’s Catholic Church, Holiday. Survivors include his father Joseph R. Sr., Miami; his mother Cynthia Woolman, New Port Richey; his stepfather Clyde Woolman, New Port Richey; his stepmother Darlene L., Miami; three brothers, Paul M., New Port Richey, Michael Mercogliano, New Port Richey and Bryan, Miami; two sisters, Dina Mercogliano, New Port Richey and Denise, Miami; paternal grandparents Joseph D., Apollo Beach and Mildred R., Miami; maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Grover Tucker, Trenton. Michels-Lundquist Funeral Home, New Port Richey.

NORFLEET, WAYNE. Born in Aripeka, went to Pierce Elementary, Gulf High, University of Florida MBA; GE Human Resources in six plant locations. He was a member of: Elks Lodge 2520, Eagles Lodge, Central Florida Roadrunners, and Florida Suncoasters RV Clubs. Preceded in death by his parents, Verne and Bertha Norfleet of Aripeka; three sisters, Betty Millard, Verna Mae Sloan, and Carol Ann White; his wife, Nancy; survives along with three brothers, John (Donna), Carl, and Joe. No service during Covid 19. A memorial will be held at the Elks Lodge and burial in Aripeka Cemetery at a later date. Dobies FH/Hudson. [GHS Class of 1956]

OAKLEY CARTER, Mary Elizabeth Edwards, 93 of Spring Hill, died Thursday, Jan. 3, 2013, in Spring Hill. Mary was born in Dothan, Ala. to Matthew and Anna Lee Edwards, a lifelong resident of the Tampa Bay area, a 1938 graduate of Gulf High School, a member of River Hills Church of God, and a homemaker where she spent many hours enjoying crafts and quilting. Preceded in death by her husbands, Harold Oakley and Robert Carter. Survived by her daughters, Kitty (Wayne) Jones of Blue Ridge, Ga., Patti (Hank) Vaughn of Maryville, Tenn., Lee Anna (Andrew) Paylor of Md.; one brother, William H. Edwards; grandchildren, Tom Jones, Karen E. Jones, Greg Jones, Patrick Jones, Kevin Jones, Christine Vaughn, Hank Vaughn, Cheryl Vaughn; great grandchildren; Whitney, Shannon, Darion, Kristen, Gage, Bailey, Audrey, Joshua, Tiffany, Alex, Demi, Larissa; great-great-granddaughter, Jocelyn; and numerous nieces and nephews. Mary’s family will receive friends at 1:00 p.m. until service time at 2:00 p.m. Tues., Jan. 8, 2013, at Hodges Family Funeral Home. Entombment will take place at Chapel Hill Gardens.

O’BRIEN, JOAN M. May 20, 1930 – June 10, 2019. In the afternoon of June 10, 2019, Joan M. O’Brien Obie of New Port Richey, Florida went to her Eternal Life at the age of 89. Joan was born in New York to Robert and Eleanor Boyle on May 20, 1930. She received her Bachelor’s degree from St Francis College and her Master’s degree attending Fordham University and New York University. After joining the Sister’s of St Joseph in Brentwood NY, she taught in numerous schools in Brooklyn and Rockaway, New York. Later she taught at Gulf High School in New Port Richey, Florida. She impacted generations of students during her 40 years as an educator and she “loved every minute of it”. She was a devoted member for 37 years at St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church where she served as a Lecturer and Eucharistic Minister. She is predeceased by her brother Robert Boyle and her sister Carolyn Crowley. She is survived by her husband, Donald Obie, his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren as well as two generations of her nieces and nephews. She spent the last 20 years of her life with her loving spouse and best friend. They were blessed to have had this precious time together. Joan and Don joyfully traveled the world. They enjoyed playing golf together in the both woman and men’s leagues while living happily at Timber Greens. Joan considered these years “a little piece of Heaven”. Joan always said, “I have had a good life and I have no regrets”. She will be sadly missed by her family and faithful friends. A Requiem Mass will be held at 10:00 on June 22, 2019 at St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 8320 Old Country Rd 54, New Port Richey, Florida. Burial will follow at Meadowlawn Memorial Gardens, 4244 Madison St, New Port Richey, Florida. In lieu of flowers Joan has requested that donations be made to St Judes Children’s Hospital www.stjude.org

O’DELL, CHRISTOPHER JOHN, 26, of Mobile, Ala., formerly of Holiday, died Wednesday (Feb. 23, 2000) at home in Mobile. Born in Newton, N.J., he came here from Norfolk, Va., and moved to Mobile, where he was stationed for a year. He was active in the Coast Guard, a 1992 graduate of Gulf High School and was a trumpet player. He graduated from the Pasco County Criminal Justice Academy. Survivors include his parents, Stanley J. and Charlet M. O’Dell, Holiday; and a grandmother, Ida Belle Parker, Holiday. Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Home, Bartelt Road Chapel, Holiday.

O’DONNELL, ARTHUR. Arthur O’Donnell, a retired principal and longtime educator in Pasco County, has died. He was 67. O’Donnell, who died Thursday, worked for the Pasco County school district for 35 years and during his tenure served as principal at Gulf High, Gulf Junior High, Hudson High and Ridgewood High. He retired in 2003. O’Donnell, who began his career as a math teacher in 1968, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, according to information from Gulf High School. He is survived by his wife, Renee; son Dave; daughters Jennifer Troxell, Melissa Turncliff and Courtney O’Donnell; and five grandchildren. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. today at Morgan Funeral Home Chapel in New Port Richey. The funeral service will be at noon Monday at Our Lady Queen of Peace church. [Tampa Tribune, Jan. 4, 2014]

O’HARA, JOHN STEPHEN, passed away March 15, 2014, in Tallahassee, Florida. He was born September 28, 1918, in a farmhouse in Goodels, Michigan. One year later he moved to Florida with his parents in a Model T Ford and grew up in New Port Richey, Florida, where he graduated from Gulf High School. John graduated from the University of Florida in 1946 after three years of military service in the U.S. Navy during World War II. John dedicated his professional career to the State of Florida as an economist and statistician, beginning with the Florida Industrial Commission in 1946 until his retirement in 1982. He served as Chief of the Bureau of Research and Analysis for the Department of Labor and Employment Security in the last twelve years of his career. John and his wife, Ann, loved camping, hiking and canoeing with their nine children. Their travels and adventures continued long after John’s retirement, all over the U.S., Central and South America, and Europe. They were charter members of the Good Sam of Tallahassee camping club and spent many years square dancing with the Tallahassee Twirlers. John was active in the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. He was a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus for many years and served as Grand Knight of Father Hugon Council for two years.

John is survived by his wife, Ann Rhoads O’Hara, and their nine children: John Stephen O’Hara, Jr. (Jeri) of Jacksonville, FL; Janis Spitzer (Phil) of Tallahassee; Vicky O’Hara (Gerry Meyerman) of Ridge, Maryland; and Debbie Grant (Kevin); David Bruce O’Hara (Kathy); Ellen O’Hara; Suzanne Hancock (Manuel Villegas); Cathy Kendall (Roby); and Rebecca O’Hara (Ron Greenstein), all of Tallahassee. John is further survived by his 19 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and scores of in-laws, outlaws, and hangers-on (the door was always open). Dad was the only statistician in the family, so with him gone we cannot be held to accuracy. A visitation will be held at Culley’s MeadowWood Riggins Road Chapel on Thursday, March 20th from 5:00pm – 7:00pm. A Mass Of The Resurrection will be held at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church on Friday, March 21st at 11:00am. [GHS Class of 1937]

OKUN, ARNOLD, 59, of Palm Harbor, died May 4, 2009. He is survived by his loving wife Maddi; daughters Jessica (Shawn) and Teresa (Ryan); and grandchildren Benjamin, Hannah and Ava; as well as other family members and friends. Funeral services will be 11 am today at Temple Ahavat Shalom, 1575 Curlew Road, Palm Harbor. Burial will follow in Curlew Hills Memory Gardens. Online guestbook at davidcgross.com David C. Gross Funeral Homes 6366 Central Ave. 727-381-4911 [Mr. Okun was a mathematics teacher at Gulf High School]

OLIVO, VICTOR A. JR., 22, of Port Richey, died Monday (July 4, 2005) in Hudson. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., he came here 11 years ago from Miami and was a cook. He was a 2001 graduate of Gulf High School and a band member. He was Catholic. Survivors include his mother, Elisabeth Olmo, and a brother, Matthew Stolaski, both of Port Richey; two sisters, Shannon Olivo, New York City, and Mercedes Stolaski, Port Richey; maternal grandfather, Jose Olmo, New Port Richey; maternal grandmother, Luz Olmo, Brooklyn; five uncles and two aunts. Michels and Lundquist Funeral Home, New Port Richey.

OLSON, KARL MIKEL “MIKE,” 68, New Port Richey, passed away June 26, 2013. He was the tax collector for Pasco County and also served as County Commissioner for six years. His memberships include P.O.W #146 F & AM (Past Master), Scottish Rite 32 Degree and Egypt Temple Shrine, Tampa, Gulf Hammock Hunters Assn., Mittye P. Locke PTA. Mike is survived by his wife of 49 years, Mary; two daughters, Mary Beth Grodszinsky (David) and Kelly Rutherford (Bill), all of New Port Richey; seven grandchildren and three great-grand children. The family will receive friends Sunday from 1-4 pm at Michels & Lundquist Funeral Home. The service will be Monday, 11 am at the First Baptist Church of New Port Richey. The family suggests donations to HPH Hospice. Envelopes available at the funeral home. [GHS Class of 1962]

PALMER, VIRGINIA LEE, 18, was killed in a head-on wreck on Dec. 12, 1987, on Little Road, north of County Road 54. A driver had crossed the center line to pass a car; he was not seriously hurt. She was a 1987 graduate of Gulf Comprehensive High School. The Palmers moved to Florida three years ago from a suburb of Atlanta and opened the Chick-Fil-A Restaurant in Gulf View Square Mall, where Ginny worked part-time.

PANTAS, JOAN ELISA (GRANT), 56, of New Port Richey, passed away Nov. 24, 2015. A loving mother to Zacharias and Tara Pantas, she is survived by her children and grandchildren, Maddix Pantas; future daughter-in-law, Danielle Thompson; her sister and brother-in-law, Robin and Tom Andrews; brother, Scott Grant; mother, Joyce Grant; sister and brother-in-law. Kim and Jerry Carrier; many nieces, nephews and old friends. Joan was predeceased by her husband, Louis Pantas. She will be laid to rest in her hometown of York, Maine next to her father, Arthur D. Grant. [Her sister, Robin (Grant) Andrews, writes that Joan died one month after a diagnosis of lung cancer. “She is loved and missed so much. My sister always talked about all the great times and great friends she had at Gulf High School.”]

PAPINEAU, JUSTIN, Class of 1995, died on May 25, 2009. He is survived by his son Ashton Papineau, age 2.

PARKER, JOHN DAVID, 68, passed accidentally on Sept. 2, 2010. He was a U.S. Navy veteran and the owner/operator of the family business, J. D. Parker & Sons, Pasco County’s oldest garbage company (61 years). He is survived by his loving wife, Donna; sons, Dave and Jamey (Shawna); brothers, W.A (Dub) (Janice) and Gene (Cathy); sister, Jane (Tom) and 3 grandchildren, Sara, Kelly and Samantha. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. A memorial service will be held Tuesday at 7:30 pm with a gathering from 5- 7:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Seabird Sanctuary at www.seabirdsanctuary.com. Visit prevattfuneralhome.com

PARKER, JOSEPH RICHARD “DICK,” 89, a longtime resident of Zephyrhills, and recently of Cary, N.C., died Aug. 6, 2008, in Apex, N.C. He was born March 15, 1919, in Odessa, to William and Jessie Parker. Mr. Parker grew up in Odessa and attended Gulf High School in New Port Richey, Fla., where he graduated as salutatorian. He married Marjorie E. “Marge” Parker in 1942. Mr. and Mrs. Parker lived in Tampa, Jacksonville and Miami, before retiring to Zephyrhills. After graduating from high school, Mr. Parker served in the Civilian Conservation Corps. During World War II, he worked in the shipyards of Tampa. After the war, Mr. Parker began working as a machinist for National Airlines and retired after 37 years. He enjoyed fishing, working in his vegetable garden, attending church activities and helping others. He also had a great love for animals and they in turn, loved him back. A man of deep faith, Mr. Parker was ordained as a deacon in the Southern Baptist Church in 1959 and served for 40 years. He was a member of Westside Baptist Church of Zephyrhills for more than 25 years and since living in Cary Mr. Parker worshiped the Lord at Westwood Baptist Church. His survivors include his daughter, Elaine Parker; his son, Joseph (Diana) Parker; his granddaughter, Laura (Henry) Rosenbrock; his grandson, Jeffrey (Pam) Parker; his great-granddaughter, Anneka Rosenbrock; the mother of his grandchildren, Karen Pearce; two brothers, Sebert Parker, and J.C. Parker; and his sister, Mary Lee. Services occurred Aug. 11, at Westside Baptist Church. Private interment occurred at Chapel Hill Gardens. Donations may be made to the Florida Baptist Children’ s Home. [GHS Class of 1938]

PARKER, SHIRLEY (FREDERICK), GHS Class of 1957, died on July 22, 2019.

PARKER-HUDSON, PATTI, 44, passed away Feb. 12, 2015. Survived by sons, Christopher and Ryan; parents, Bernard and Patricia; sisters, Barbara and Bernadette. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in her honor to Pancreatic Cancer Research at www.cancer.org/donate. Morgan Funeral Home. [GHS Class of 1988]

PASCOE, ROBERT B. “BOB,” 46, of Spring Hill, FL (formerly of New Port Richey, FL) passed away April 6, 2013. He was born in Hartford, CT and was a graduate of Gulf High School in New Port Richey where he was very active in the school’s Naval ROTC program. Immediately following his graduation he joined the United States Navy where he ultimately obtained the rank of Chief Petty Officer. He served in the Gulf War and later became an instructor of cryogenics. He then joined the United States Navy Reserve as a Seabee. He left the Reserve and joined the Florida Army National Guard Helicopter Battalion in Brooksville. He was called up and served one year in Iraq. After his return to Spring Hill, he retired his military career in April 2011. He was a member of the American Legion Post 173 in Holiday. He was also a member of the VFW Post 7987, New Port Richey, where he served as Junior Vice Commander and Quartermaster. He was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 10209 in Spring Hill. Bob loved to play acoustic guitar and golf. He was a chit chatter who could and would talk to anyone. He was of Methodist faith. Bob is survived by his wife Sharon; his father and step mother, Robert B. & RoseMary Drake, his mother, Patricia Pascoe; two brothers, George and Russell Pascoe; one sister, Dawn Pascoe; nieces Raven and Vanessa and nephew Josh and his very close friends Steve & Andrea Ward and niece Gracie Ward.

PASSANNANTE, JULIO “Jay.” The funeral service for Julio “Jay” Passannante, 56, will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, at Matz Funeral Home, 410 E. Rand Road, Mount Prospect. Entombment will be in All Saints Mausoleum. Visitation will be from 3 to 9 p.m. Monday, at the funeral home. Born November 6, 1961, in Morristown, N.J., he died May 17, 2018, in Arlington Heights. Jay was a passionate person, who enjoyed spending his time taking professional pictures, playing pool/billiards, looking at classic cars, and listening to the Allman Brothers Band. He loved getting lunch and chatting with his friends. Jay was a loving person who is extremely proud of his daughter, Adrianna, his son, Dominick, and his wife, Bonnie. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Beloved husband of Bonnie; loving father of Dominick and Adrianna; loving son of Fortunata and the late Francis Passannante; dear brother of Stephen (Marsha), Anthony (Sue), and the late Ceasar Passannante; and fond uncle of many nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Easter Seals appreciated. [GHS Class of 1980]

PASSARELLA, NICHOLAS ANTHONY, 48, of New Port Richey, passed away Oct. 17, 2010. He is survived by wife Francine; his father Albert; 3 brothers and a sister. Born in Camden, NJ, he moved to New Port Richey in 1976. Co-owner and developer of Grand Valley, a NPR retirement community.

PATTERSON, HARRIET ROSE KIRCHER (EDWARDS) left this world on November 9, 2016. She is predeceased, by her parents, Edwin Kircher Sr. and Rose Meglio Kircher; her brother, Edwin Jr.; both of her husbands, James M. Edwards and C.W. (Pat) Patterson; along with one child, Kenneth Patterson. She is survived by her son, James Robert Edwards; grandsons, Andrew Jefferson Edwards and Gilbert Dennis Reeber; great-grandchildren, Joseph and Anna Edwards. She is also survived by her Patterson stepchildren, Pati and Bill Deluca, Linda and Joe Greno, Tom Patterson, Ann and Dave Crane. Also her 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Harriet was born November 26, 1922 in New York City. In 1940 she graduated from Gulf High School. She then enrolled in Nursing School at the start of World War II. She met her first husband at Drew Field and married during the War. In 1964 she went to work for Thornton Laboratories retiring after 29 years as a board member. She belonged to St Lawrence Parish. She loved her family and her many animals. She showed kindness and care for all. Services will be held at Boza & Roel Funeral Home, 4730 N. Armenia Ave. Viewing will take place Monday, November 14, 6-8 pm with Catholic Funeral Service on November 15 at 2 pm followed by graveside service. www.bozaroel.com.

PAULK, VONDELL PEDRAZAS, 85, of New Port Richey, passed away peacefully Sept. 11, 2014. She was a 1946 graduate of Gulf High School and retired from GTE after 36 years of service. She was also a member of the Pioneers. She is survived by three daughters, Suzanne Schrader (David), Teri Tillis (Arlen), Pam Dobies (Tom); seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Visitation Saturday, Sept. 20 from 10 am-12pm with a memorial service to immediately follow at Dobies Funeral Home, Old CR 54.

PENDLEY, CREDA MICHELE, died on May 20, 2016. GHS Class of 1982.

PERDUE, CONNIE MAC, 78, of New Port Richey, peacefully passed Aug. 28, 2012. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Karren Perdue Clark. Survived by his wife, Connie Sue Bailey Perdue; son, Jeffrey and spouse, Karen Perdue; daughter, Jobeth and spouse, Jay Marano; and grandchildren, Cooper, Cassidy, Camille, Caylonna Perdue and Noah and Luke Marano. Beloved husband, father, brother, friend, teacher, mentor and minister, who loved our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He will be missed dearly by all who had the honor of knowing him “Roll Tide – Go Rays”. In lieu of flowers, please send only living plants, or make a donation to Building Fund, First Baptist Church of New Port Richey, in his name. Visitation Friday, 2-4 & 6-8 pm at Faupel Funeral Home, 7524 Ridge Rd., Port Richey. Service will be held Saturday at 10 am at First Baptist Church of New Port Richey. Faupel Funeral Home 727-849-9964. [Mr. Perdue was a music teacher, choral director, and the founder of Total Sound at Gulf High School.]

PERDUE, JEFFREY EARL, 57, passed away in Orlando, Florida on February 23, 2020 surrounded by his family and close friends. Jeff was born on September 24, 1962 in New Orleans, Louisiana to Connie Mac Perdue and Connie Sue Bailey Perdue. Growing up, Jeff played soccer and participated in his father’s chorus group “Total Sound” and band—an early love of music that spanned his lifetime. In 1984, Jeff moved to “the big city”, Orlando. He was a graduate—and #1 fan—of the University of Central Florida, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in 1989. He worked as a DJ, stage name “Jazzy Jeff.” In 1992, Jeff married the love of his life, Karen; they were happily married for 27 years. He later earned his master’s degree in public policy and leadership from Ashford University. Jeff was the founder and owner of both All Florida Mortgage Centers and Orlando Home Mortgages for over the past 25 years. He was an active member of Discovery Church Orlando and a prominent community member of the “Lake Holden Yacht Club.” Jeff was very involved in coaching and teaching at Boone High School from 2000-2016. He was both the #1 fan and ultimate coach for each of his children in soccer and softball. He spent many years cheering on his Knights, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and other Orlando teams such as the Magic and Orlando City Soccer Club. One of his greatest memories was attending Super Bowl XXXVII in 2003, where his Bucs took home the championship. His best days were spent outdoors—often on the boat—with his family. Music brought Jeff and his family never ending joy—especially his collection of cassette tapes and records—and Chicago, Tom Petty, Buddy Guy, and Trombone Shorty were always on repeat in their home. Jeff was a member of two bands—Shadofax, a group with his old high school buddies, and Hangar 61, his local Orlando band. Jeff is survived by his wife Karen Wyatt Perdue; his son Cooper, wife Courtney, and beloved granddaughter Chloe; daughters Cassidy, Camille, and Caylonna; and sister JoBeth Marano, her husband Jay Marano, and their sons Noah and Luke Marano. Jeff was preceded in death by his sister, Kaaren, and his parents, Connie Mac and Connie Sue. The funeral will be held on Thursday, February 27 at Discovery Church, Alafaya Campus (2504 South Alafaya Trail, Orlando, Florida 32828). The viewing will begin at 10:00 AM followed by a service at 11:00 AM, graveside service at 12:30 PM at Greenwood Cemetery (1803 Greenwood Street, Orlando, Florida 32801) and reception at the Perdue household (4606 Tinsley Drive, Orlando, FL 32839). Wear your UCF black and gold or Bucs Red and expect to rock n’ roll karaoke in Jeff’s honor. Flowers can be sent to Discovery Church, Alafaya Campus (2504 South Alafaya Trail, Orlando, Florida 32828) beginning at 8:00 AM on Thursday, February 27. [GHS Class of 1980]

PERRY, SGT. JOHN CLOCK, JR. Word has been received by Phillip L. Capdevielle of the Gulf High School faculty from Mrs. Bernie Spain, the former Pat Perry, of the death of her brother Jack. Jack, who was a graduate of Gulf High, Class of 1951, was killed in action near Triangle Hill, Korea, on October 30, 1952. He had distinguished himself with extraordinary valor and courage, and had risen to the rank of sergeant, and had been awarded the distinguished Service Cross, and the Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Clusters. During his undergraduate years at Gulf High School, Jack was active in dramatics, athletics, and student government. He was elected president of the senior class of 1951 and served in that capacity with a great deal of ability. Jack will always be remembered in the hearts of those who knew him for his charming personality, winning smile, and his extremely well developed vocabulary.

PETERSEN, GERALD P. “JERRY,” 66, of New Port Richey, passed away June 18, 2010. He is survived by his loving wife, Margaret “Peg”, son Sean and brother Charles. Dr. Peterson started at Gulf as a guidance counselor in 1977 and later became an assistant principal. He held that position until 1984, when he was elected to one term on the school board. He was born in Cleveland. His wife Margaret also taught at Gulf. More recently, he and his wife taught at River Ridge High School.

PFEFFER, FRANK A. SR., 80, of New Port Richey, died Tuesday (Sept. 10, 2002) at home. Born in Washington, D.C., he came here in 1970 from Michigan. He had been a sociology and history teacher at Gulf High School. He was an Air Force veteran and served in World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam War. He was treasurer of the Air Force Association, a member of Association of Former Intelligence Officers, and was a member of Special Military Active and Retired Travelers. He was Catholic. Survivors include his wife, Phyllis; two sons, Frank A. Pfeffer Jr., Hudson, and Lawrence, Japan; two daughters, Mary Frances Osborne, New Port Richey, and Nancy Miller, Dunedin; a brother, William, Arkansas; two sisters, Mary Wendorf, Waco, Texas, and Florence Mouton, Lafayette, La.; 10 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. North/Meadowlawn Funeral Home & Cemetery, New Port Richey.

PHILLIPS, ELIZABETH ANN “LIZ,” 56, of Holiday, died Monday (Nov. 21, 2005) at home. Born in New York City, she came here 32 years ago from Paramus, N.J. She was a data entry clerk at Gulf High School, New Port Richey, with seven years service and was an employee for the Pasco County School System for 11 years. She was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, Holiday, past president and member of the Cotee River Lions Club, and a member of the Suncoast Girl Scout Council, New Port Richey, where she was a troop leader for Girl Scout Troop 747. Survivors include her husband, Charles L.; two daughters, Suzanne E. and Charlene L., both of Holiday; two sisters, Elaine Wholey, Booten, N.J., and Frances Fishsketta, Virginia Beach, Va.; and one grandson. Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Home, Bartelt Road Chapel, Holiday.

PHILLIPS, RUBY. Local Girl Victim of Freak Accident. A tragedy which cost the life of a popular Gulf High School senior occurred Saturday night shortly before 10, when Ruby Phillips, 17, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Pilkenton, Rt. 1, New Port Richey, received crushing injuries inflicted by an uncontrolled racing car at the Golden Triangle dragstrip in Oldsmar. In view of hundreds of horrified spectators, the young woman was struck by the dragster driven by Jan Ruble, Largo, who lost control of his vehicle at an estimated speed of 100 mph and struck the auto on the hood of which Miss Phillips and her fiance, Paul Hooten, also of this city, were sitting while viewing the race. According to Hooten, he looked around just as Miss Phillips slid from her perch, apparently in an attempt to avoid the racing car, which struck her as she touched the ground. The victim was rushed to Tampa General Hospital, where she died shortly after 11 p.m. Hooten lost his shoes and sox in the terrific impact, but was not struck directly and sustained only a bruised hip. Ruble, driver of the racer, escaped with minor cuts and bruises as his car crashed through a fence, went into a high speed “wobble” and struck the Hooten auto. The dragster race, a supervised event, was held at the strip which is off Mobley Road about a half-mile west of Gunn Highway. Hillsborough County Deputy Charles Kelley, who conducted the investigation, said witnesses told him the car seemed to fishtail out of control for a period, then crashed through the restraining fence into the spectator area. According to measurements taken by Kelley, the dragster traveled 121 feet after it left the track, between the pavement and the restraining fence. After it plowed through the restraining fence, it careened an additional 31 feet, striking the Hooten car. The unfortunate young woman, a native of Louisville, Ky., came to this area one year ago with her parents from Henryville, Ind., and was planning to announce her engagement to Hooten, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Hooten, this summer. Survivors include her parents; two brothers, Carl Phillips, Korea, and Jesse Phillips, Pleasure Ridge Park, Ky.; four sisters, Mrs. Mildred Hawkins, Pleasure Ridge Park; Mrs. Mary Lee De-Jarnette, Muldraugh, Ky.; Mrs. Barbara Humphrey, Lexington, Ky., and Mrs. Peggy Ann Blevins, Valley Station, Ky.; stepbrother, James E. Pilkenton, Louisville, and her maternal grandfather, Albert Rogers, this city. Visitation Monday evening at the chapel of North Funeral Home drew scores of sorrowing students from Gulf High to pay last respects to their classmate. Final services and interment will take place late this week in Shively, Ky. [GHS Class of 1964]

PITCOCK, CHARLES CLAYTON JR., 57, went to be with the Lord Monday, Jan. 11, 2016. He was born Feb. 20, 1958, in Homestead, FL, the son of Charles C. Pitcock and Katherine (Lambert) Pitcock. Both preceded him in death. He was married Sept. 16, 1983, to Joni Taddie of Springfield, PA. He graduated from Gulf High (1976) and Tulane University (1980). Mr. Pitcock was a football captain for Tulane as a guard before he joined the National Football League in 1981, with the Los Angeles Rams and Philadelphia Eagles. Chuck played in the Canadian Football League in 1982. Started for L.A. Express and Tampa Bay Bandits of the USFL (1983-1985) appeared in the ESPN film “Small Potatoes: Who Killed The USFL?” He joined the New Orleans Saints in 1985 and in 1987, he went to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Mr. Pitcock was nicknamed “Pit Bull” or “Wild Man” because of his passionate, punishing style at 6-foot-4 and 260 pounds. Friends say his greatest feature was his heart. Following football, he had a successful career as a general sales manager in the auto industry. Mr. Pitcock was an avid fisherman. He is survived by wife, Joni; son, Charles F. (Monet); sister, Lorraine (David) Mitchell; niece, Katie (Michael) Gregory; grandniece, Caroline; sister, Kara (Rich) LeComte; niece, Kenna LeComte; brother, Kyle (Eileen) Pitcock; and nephew, Mack. Visitation is 3-5 pm, Saturday, Jan. 16, at the First Assembly of God, 6310 Trouble Creek Road. A memorial service follows. The Rev. Ed Hartman will officiate. All arrangements will be handled by Dobies Funeral Home, 8825 Old C.R. 54, New Port Richey, (727) 937-7555. Chuck, you will always live in our hearts.

POINSETT, TINA MARIE FRANCO, 44, Port Richey, passed away May 13, 2010. She was born in Jersey City, NJ and came here 35 years ago. She was Roman Catholic and was a CNA at Heather Hill Nursing Home, New Port Richey. Tina is survived by a son, Jonathan Franco & a daughter Christina Michelle Franco; both of Port Richey; mother Jean Bright, New Port Richey; three sisters, Lynn Marie Franco-Tos, Port Richey, Jennifer Davenport, New Port Richey and Joey Lee Franco-Cherry, Port St. Lucie; and paternal grandmother, Ann Bright, New Port Richey. The family will receive friends Monday, 12-2 pm with a service conducted by Rev. Charles Smith at 2 pm at Michels & Lundquist Funeral Home, 5228 Trouble Creek Rd., New Port Richey. Interment will follow at East Elfers Cemetery, New Port Richey. [GHS Class of 1984]

POTTS, RUSSELL, Class of 1978, died Nov. 16, 2012.

POYNTER, WALTER KEITH, of Gordon, Alabama, passed away Saturday night, December 5, 2020 at Flowers Hospital at the age of 58. Keith was born January 1, 1962 in Cincinatti, Ohio and moved to New Port Richey, Florida at the age of 5. He was a graduate of Gulf High School in New Port Richey. He and his wife have been residents of Gordon for the past seven years. He was employed with Nutrien-Ag Solutions in Donalsonville, Georgia for the past seven years. Keith loved bass fishing and was of the Baptist faith. He is survived by his wife, Toni Poynter of Gordon and daughter, Grace Poynter of Gordon; his parents, Walter and Ruby Renner Poynter of New Port Richey; a brother, Jeff Poynter (Karen) of Linden, Tennessee and a sister, Amy Weisman (David) of New Port Richey, Florida; several nieces and nephews also survive. Glover Funeral Home of Dothan has been entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 699-3888. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com [GHS Class of 1980. He died of COVID, according to another alum.]

PRACK, JAMES, 38, of 209 Landmark Drive, Hudson, died Tuesday (Sept. 27, 1983). He came here 24 years ago from his native St. Louis, Mo., and was owner of Prack Custom Homes, and a U. S. Army veteran. He was a member of the Pasco County Electrical Board. Survivors include two sons, James and Mark; four daughters, Susan, Nancy, and Erica Prack, and Kimberly Heuthe; his parents Mary Jane and Albert Prack; two brothers, Albert, New York, and Donald, New Port Richey; and a sister Nancy Armstrong, Port Richey. North Funeral Home.

PRACON-YERGER, SUSAN M., 35, Port Richey, died March 19, 2010. Survivors: parents Kenneth & Carol Pracon; daughters Carolyn & Kaylee Yerger; siblings Jessica & Joseph, grandmother Agnes Barba. She was a wonderful mother and friend. [GHS Clas of 1992]

PREVOT, DAVID KEITH, 56, of New Port Richey, Florida, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2019 surrounded by family. David is survived by his parents, Frank Charles Prevot and Virginia Jean Prevot; brother, Stephen C. Prevot (Karen Vommaro); daughters, Laura Prevot Sherrin (Nick Sherrin) and Jennifer Prevot. A celebration of life will be held on January 26, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church, 6800 Trouble Creek Road, New Port Richey, 34653. Dobies Funeral Home Tarpon Springs, FL. [GHS Class of 1981]

QUARTERS, VIRGINIA. Teen who had pioneering lupus treatment dies. Virginia Quarters, who was the first person to undergo experimental bone marrow transplant surgery as a treatment for lupus, died Thursday (Dec. 20, 2001) at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg. She was 18. Virginia had the bone marrow transplant in October at All Children’s. Doctors hoped that it would help her lupus, a disease that causes the immune system to attack internal organs. Her struggle was described in a St. Petersburg Times story that month. Virginia started having seizures as a teen, and her behavior became erratic, said her mother, Charann Quarters. The lupus caused her immune system to attack her brain, which caused a number of neurological disorders and other health problems. “When they said that lupus attacks the inner organs, we thought the liver, we thought the kidneys,” Virginia’s mother said in October. “We never thought of the brain.” On Friday, Quarters said that her daughter had been in intensive care at All Children’s since Nov. 6 and on life support since Nov. 9. Virginia graduated with honors from Gulf High School in May. She had been taught at home. Survivors include her parents, Henry and Charann; a sister, Chrystal Lynn Masters (who was Virginia’s bone marrow donor), New Port Richey; her paternal grandmother, Margaret Quarters, Holiday; and her maternal grandmother, Grace Greene, Altamonte Springs. St. Petersburg Times, Dec. 22, 2001.

RANGEL, ANTONIO F., 20, of New Port Richey, passed away on January 15, 2014. He is survived by his parents Felipe and Lucia Rangel, brother, Daniel, sisters, Gabriela and Stephanie. Visitation will be held at Morgan Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, Jan. 18 from 4-8 p.m. Funeral Service will be held at Morgan Funeral Home Chapel on Sunday, Jan. 19 at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be held at East Elfers Cemetery at 3:00 p.m.

RANKIN, FRANK ZANE JR. Information about Mr. Rankin is here.

RAPISARDA, LOUIS W., 27, of New Port Richey, died Monday (Sept. 14, 1998). Born in Hempstead, N.Y., he came here 16 years ago from Islip, N.Y. He was a cook for Bally Hoos Restaurant, Tarpon Springs, and was Catholic. He was a 1990 graduate of Gulf High School. Survivors include a companion, Tracy Groshans, New Port Richey; a son, Robert W., New Port Richey; his mother and stepfather, Phyllis and Carl Doughtie, New Port Richey; a sister, Lauren Ann, New Port Richey; and his maternal grandmother, Madeline Tommolino, New Port Richey.

RAPSON, MORRIS D., 80, of Largo, FL., passed away Monday, January 5, 2009. He was born in Michigan and moved to Florida in 1964 from Carlisle, OH. Morris was a school teacher in both Pasco and Pinellas Counties and attended First Assembly of God in Clearwater, FL. He was an Army Veteran of WWII and enjoyed fishing. Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Dorothy; 2 sons, Mark, and his wife, Patricia of Tierra Verde, FL and David and his wife, Paige of Largo, FL; a daughter, Kathleen Coy and her husband Larry of Corvallis, MT; a brother, Donald and his wife Madelon of Parkersburg, WV; 2 sisters, Evelyn Wilcox and her husband Eugene of Carlisle, OH and Nancy Harding and her husband Jack of Grove City, OH, and 5 grandchildren, April and Alex Nagy, and Bryce, Reagan, and Chloe Rapson. He was preceded in death by a grandson, Zachariah and a sister, Eleanor. Visitation was held 10:00 a.m.Saturday, January 10, 2009 at the funeral home until service time at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Eddie Lamb from First Assembly of God as officiant. Interment with Military Honors followed the service at Garden Sanctuary Cemetery. Arrangements were made under the direction of Garden Sanctuary Funeral Home, 7950 131st Street North, Seminole, FL 33776 / 727-391-0121. [Mr. Rapson was an industrial arts teacher at Gulf in the 1980s.]

REDFERN, Jessica, 21, of New Port Richey, died May 5. She is survived by her loving family. Morgan Funeral Home. Two hit by Spring Hill driver; one dies.A woman was killed and a man severely injured Monday night after they walked into the path of a car on U.S. 41 near Bowman Road, the Florida Highway Patrol said. Jessica E. Redfern, 22, and Brian J. Stover, 21, crossed the highway about 11 p.m. They were hit by a 2007 Chevrolet Impala driven by Andre L. Storr, 29, of 13815 Blythewood Drive in Spring Hill. Redfern, of 4150 Las Vegas Drive in New Port Richey, died at the scene. Stover, of 5410 Trouble Creek Road in New Port Richey, was taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa, where he remained in fair condition Tuesday. The driver was not at fault because Redfern and Stover crossed into his path, said FHP Trooper Larry Coggins. Redfern’s relatives declined to talk to a Times reporter Tuesday. A woman at Redfern’s home said Redfern and Stover had been dating for about a year. [St. Petersburg Times, May 7, 2008. Jessica was in the Class of 2006.]

REED, BONNIE LEE (SMITH), 64, of Weaverville, NC, went home to the Lord on August 1, 2016. Bonnie died at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, NC, surrounded by her family after courageously fighting leukemia. Bonnie is survived by her husband, Ken Reed Sr. of Weaverville, NC; son, Ken Reed Jr. (Michelle) of New Port Richey, FL; daughter, Roslyn Carney of Alexander, NC (J.P.); grandson (whom Bonnie loved to ‘the moon and back’), “Reed” Carney; and brothers, Ward Smith of Chatsworth, GA and Wayne Smith of New Port Richey, FL. [GHS Class of 1969]

ELIZABETHTOWN – REESE, NANCY R., 92, formerly of Kingston, died Thursday, November 27, 2014, at the Masonic Village, Elizabethtown, where she was a resident. Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was a daughter of the late J. Taliesin and Catherine (Lewis) Richards. She was the widow of the late Benjamin H. Reese Jr. She graduated from the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital School of Nursing as an R.N., received a B.S from Western Reserve University and a MEQ from Wilkes College. She worked at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, the former Nesbitt Hospital, Kingston, and was coordinator of the practical nursing program at the Wilkes-Barre Vo-Tech School, until her retirement. She and Ben moved to Bayonet Point, Florida, where she again worked as a head nurse at Mease Hospital, New Port Richey, Florida, and finally as a teacher of health occupations at Gulf High School, New Port Richey. She proudly served her country during World War II as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy Nurse Corps, with duty at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and the Philadelphia Naval Hospital. Nancy was a member of the former First Welsh Presbyterian Church of Wilkes-Barre. Surviving are her brother, David Richards, Cincinnati, Ohio; a son, Retired Ltc. Richard T. Reese; and daughter-in law Susan T. Reese, Woodbridge, Virginia; three granddaughters, Maj. Morgan Reese PE, U.S. Army, Kathryn Ripley R.N., Cpt. Erika Reese M.D., U.S. Army; and two great-grandsons, Noah and Jack Ripley. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her memorial service with military honors at 10 a.m. Saturday in the chapel at Maple Hill Cemetery, 68 E. St. Mary’s Road, Hanover Township. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Fisher House, www.fisherhouse.org, in her name. To send the family online condolences, please visit www.buchfuneral.com.

REICH, ELDON LESTER, 66, died Aug. 18, 2020, from pancreatic cancer. He was born in Portage, Indiana, to parents Eldon Leslie and Dolores Reich. He moved to New Port Richey, Florida, at the age of 15 due to his family’s building business. He graduated from Gulf High Schoool, where he found a love of baskeball and earned the name ‘Mad Dog.’ His full obituary is here. [GHS Class of 1971]

REYNOLDS, DONALD RAY, 61, of New Port Richey. Successful band member of the Intruders & Movers in the 60s & 70s; City of Public Works employee from 1981 until retirement as Street Department Supervisor in 2009; took the stairway to heaven on Jan. 26, 2009, leaving behind his loving wife, Marcia, and daughter, Sarah Reynolds. [GHS Class of 1964]

ROHDE, RONALD WILLIAM. Swinging a supposedly unloaded .38 caliber revolver on his finger, “cowboy fashion,” Charles Robert Simms, 20, yesterday morning accidentally shot and killed his friend, Ronald William Rohde, 16, of West Palm Avenue. Rohde, son of Mr. and Mrs. Meredith Rohde, had asked his friend if he could buy the gun, which belonged to Simms’ father, Robert Simms. Simms said his father did not want to sell the gun, but Rohde wanted to “see it.” Simms was showing him the gun when it accidentally went off, officials said. Dr. R. G. Sprankel said that death was immediate. The bullet entered high on the right side of the chest and was deflected downward, probably severing a major artery near the heart. Ironically, the gun had been in the Simms, house for years and had always been unloaded. Two weeks ago, the elder Simms, being alone in the house, loaded it. His son, in Miami at the time, was unaware that the gun had been loaded. According to Justice of the Peace David Dowling and Constable Joe Fraddosio, the gun is in such condition that they have been unable either to cock or fire it, and they cannot understand how it was fired unless the one shot wrecked the firing mechanism. The David Black Chapel, New Port Richey, is in charge of funeral arrangements. [St. Petersburg Times, 1953]

RICE, MARTIN ERROL, age 64, a long time St. Petersburg attorney, passed away on Monday, Feb. 3, 2014, after an illness with cancer. Born in Cortland, NY, the family moved to New Port Richey in 1956. Martin’s father Robert Irving Rice and his mother, Bessie Virginia “Ginny” Rice, predeceased him. His beloved wife, Elaine Smith Rice; his two sons, and his daughter-in-law, survive him, Brad (Leisa) Baptiste Rice and Jonathan I. Rice, both of St. Petersburg; his brother, Allison (Annette) Rice, Crystal River; sister, Denise (Mike) Gutowski, New Port Richey. Marty left home at the age of 17 and was self-supporting for the balance of his life. He was proud of having worked his way through college and law school. Gulf High School 1967, St. Pete JC 69, USF 71, Stetson College of Law 1974 with honors, where he served on the Board of Overseers. He began his legal career as an associate with the law firm of Harris, Clark, Green, and Piper; he was quickly made a named partner, in the firm of Harris, Green, Piper, Davenport, Nelson and Rice. He then practiced with Robert Willis Sr., and thereafter was in sole practice. Over his career, he represented people from all stations in life, from the poorest to some of the wealthiest members of the community. Judges, lawyers and prominent people sought his judgment. He approached the law as a gentlemen lawyer, with professional judgment, always prepared, and determined to win, while remaining respectful of his opponents. Marty wished to be remembered not only as a lawyer but as a good, and decent person, who tried to do the right thing. He had great love for his wife, Elaine, his sons, daughter-in-law and for all living things, especially his two dogs Moxie and Mr. Sneakers (a lab rescue). He was the recipient of many academic awards, and awards relating to the practice law. He held many prestigious positions in the law and in the community. In 2000, the Judges of Pinellas County awarded him the Richard Earle Award for Professionalism, for demonstrating “…the highest degree of professionalism in the practice of law.” He was active in helping the poor through his involvement in the St. Petersburg Bar Association where he served as its then you-ngest president, with Gulfcoast Legal Aid where he was an early board member, and with the Community Law Program. Marty was a descendant of early American settlors, Moses, Rufus, Benjamin Frank, Irving Frank, Errol, and Robert Irving, many of whom are buried in Cortland Rural Cemetery. His remains will be interned at Sunnyside Cemetery. Marty wished to express his gratitude to Bud Risser and Robert Willis Jr., and his guardian angel Joanne Leverone, for the support they sho-wed him at the end of his life. If you wish to make a donation in Marty’s memory please consider Suncoast Hospice (www.suncoasthospice.org) or Tampa Bay Lab Rescue (www.labrescuefl.org) A reception will be held from 6-7 pm, Friday, Feb. 7th, at Anderson-McQueen Funeral Home, 2201 Dr. ML King Street N., where a Memorial Service will be at 7 pm. To view the family’s personalized online guestbook visit www.andersonmcqueen.com. – See full obituary HERE.

RICHEY, GWYNETTE W., 94, of Clearwater, died Wednesday (Feb. 7, 2007) at Morningside Assisted Living Facility, Charlottesville , Va. She came here in 1954 from St. Louis. She worked 50 years as an educator, most recently at Gulf High School, New Port Richey. She was the former director of the YWCA, Clearwater, was assistant director of summer recreation programs for the city of Clearwater, and for 20 years was in charge of the Pinellas County Youth Bowling League. She was a member of Espiritu Santo Catholic Church, Safety Harbor. She enjoyed competitive roller skating, playing bingo and traveling throughout the 50 states and was an outdoor enthusiast. She collected stamps, coins and sports cards. Survivors include two sons, Skip, Lakeland, and Robert, Oldsmar; a daughter, Gwynette Wu , Seymour, Tenn.; two brothers, Claude Willis, Boise, Idaho, and Norman Willis, Keswick, Va.; 10 grandchildren; four nephews; and a niece; and Sylvan Abbey Funeral Home, Clearwater.

RICHTMEYER, CONNIE (REGISTER) (GHS ’64) died on Jan. 3, 2019. There will be a memorial service on Thursday morning, Jan. 10, at Fellowship Baptist Church, 13515 N US Hwy 301, Thonotosassa. Visitation will be at 10:30 am followed by the service at 11:00 am.

RIDDLE, RICHARD “DICK,” 49, of Hudson, passed away on November 19, 2004, at his residence. He was born in Marseilles, Ill., and moved with his family to Tampa in 1959. He moved to St. Augustine in 1984 before settling in Hudson in 2002. He retired after 20 years with Northrup Grumman in St. Augustine and was of the Protestant faith. He was a 1973 graduate of Gulf High School in New Port Richey, and worked in the Water Management District of Port Richey for eight years. Dick was a volunteer firefighter in Port Richey. Survivors include his wife, Brenda S. Riddle; and step- daughter, Ashlee O’Grady of Ocala; his five children, Joey, Michael, David, Steven, and Amanda Riddle, who live with their mother, Cathy Riddle, in St. Augustine; his mother, Mary M. Riddle of Port Richey; brothers, Ron Riddle and Jerry Riddle of St. Augustine; and one grandchild. A gathering of friends will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 27, 2004, with a memorial service to follow at 3 p.m. at the North Meadowlawn Funeral Home, New Port Richey (727)849-9281.

RIENDEAU, RAYMOND S., 61, of Port Richey, died Friday (May 25, 2007) at Community University Hospital, Tampa. Born in Stockton, Calif., he moved here in 1958 from Dallas, Ore. He was a carpenter and delivery driver for the former Cox Lumber Supply Co., working out of Land O’ Lakes. He was a 1964 graduate of Gulf High School. He was an Air Force veteran of the Vietnam War and the recipient of the Air Force Commendation Medal. He was Roman Catholic. Survivors include his mother, Audrey Riendeau, Port Richey; and two uncles, Rene Riendeau, Clarkston, Wash., and Wilfred Riendeau, Virden Manitoba, Canada. North Meadowlawn Funeral Home, New Port Richey.

RINTALA, ELLERY MERWYN, 77, of Eveleth, Minn., departed this world Thursday, March 8, 2018, from Duluth, Minn., St. Luke’s Hospital, and went to his Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Ellery was born to Jack and Aili (Franttila) Rintala of Iron, Minn., on Dec. 23, 1940, in Eveleth. He was raised in Iron Junction and graduated from Gulf High School, New Port Richey, Fla., in 1958. In 1987, Ellery graduated from Eveleth Vocational Technical Institute with an automated systems technician diploma. Ellery married Carol (Johnson) on Aug. 26, 1961, in Eveleth. Ellery and Carol spent 56 wonderful years together. Ellery worked at Erie Mining Company. He managed Rintala’s Townline Mileage Gas Station. For 25 years he was a millwright through Local 1348. In 1973, they moved to Lutz, Fla., and returned to Eveleth in 1976. Ellery loved working with his hands. He was good at fixing things. He enjoyed gardening, garage sales, traveling, laughing, spending time in Florida, especially swimming in the aqua blue Gulf waters. Ellery loved his wife and family, and he worked hard to provide for them. Ellery attended Grace and Truth Bible Church of Aurora, Minn. When wintering in Florida, Ellery and Carol attended Northside Bible Church of Lutz, where he was water baptized. Ellery was preceded in death by his parents; his aunt, Aini Makinen; his brother, Alden; a sister, Vilda, in infancy; and daughter, Elereen Skaudis. Survivors include his wife, Carol; sons, Ellery Jay of Inver Grove Heights, Minn., Christopher of Bemidji, Minn., and Cory (Joy) Rintala of Ray, Minn.; son-in-law, Peter (Judy) Skaudis; grandsons, Isaiah and Joshua Rintala; granddaughters, Nicolle, Natalie, Tahlia, Atara and Anika; great-grandson, Isaac Engelstad; sister, Palma Voss; and cousins, nieces and nephews. Visitation will be at noon Tuesday, March 27, with a 1 p.m. memorial service at the Mountain Iron Community Center, 8586 Enterprise Dr. South, Mountain Iron. Pastor Dan Miller will officiate.

RIOS, SONIA IRAIDA. March 24, 1955 – May 13, 2018. Service Information: St Michael’s Catholic Church, 8014 St Rd 52, Hudson, FL 34667. Service Date and Time: Friday, May 18, 2018 at 11:00 am. Visitation Information: Prevatt Funeral Home, 7709 St Rd 52, Hudson, FL 34667. Visitation Date and Time: Thursday, May 17, 2018 at 2:00 pm. Age 63, of Port Richey, FL passed away on Sunday, May 13, 2018 with her family by her side. The beloved wife of Benjamin Rios, the loving mother of Damary, Iraida and Emmanuel, and the cherished grandmother of Christian, Meilani, Ariani and Sofia. Born on March 24, 1955 in Humacao, Puerto Rico, Sonia was the oldest daughter of Felicita Gonzalez and the late Teodoro. A respected sister to Madeline and Maria and her late brothers Teo and Wilfredo. She will be greatly missed by her son-in-laws, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Sonia was a dedicated teacher earning her Masters in Education Administration and spent over three decades primarily as a teacher in the educational school systems of: District of Aguada, Puerto Rico where she worked as both elementary and a high school teacher; in Chicago she worked for St Sylvester’s Catholic Elementary School and several Chicago Public Schools; and while living in Florida she taught at Gulf High School in New Port Richey as a Spanish teacher. She was also an assistant principal in Chicago for about four years, prior to moving to Florida. Her immense passion for education was evident to her students and colleagues, who knew her as a loving and dedicated teacher. As a teacher, she facilitated many International Days events. Sonia had a passion for cultures always interested in learning about other traditions, as well as took great pride in teaching her Spanish class students about all the different cultures amongst the Spanish speaking countries. Throughout Sonia’s life she displayed a diverse appreciation for a wide range of genres in the arts and music. She enjoyed going to the movie theaters and was a devoted fan of Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Mystery movies and shows, including Harry Potter, StarTrek and Lord of Rings. She has instilled her love for Classical Movies to her daughters and grandchildren. She loved everything Disney, especially Epcot Center where she enjoyed exploring the different cultures. Attending various broadway musicals, concerts and visiting museums were some of her favorite interests. Her love for music ranged from classical, Latin, country, international, soul and opera, just to name a few. Sonia LOVED to read, she was an avid reader and would read large dense books within a day or two! She had a special place in her heart for nature and animals, especially dogs. You could find her exploring botanical gardens, gardening and would talk to plants infusing them with her love. Anyone who knew Sonia also knew that she LOVED playing dominoes, eating sweets and good food!!! Most importantly, Sonia was known for her genuine smile, her contagious laughter and her open arms as she greeted people with her love and kindness. A visitation will be on Thursday, May 17, 2018 from 2:00pm to 8:00pm at Prevatt Funeral Home Chapel. A mass will be held Friday, May 18, 2018 at 11:00am at St Michael’s Catholic Church.

ROBERT, DR. CHRISTOPHER D. October 29, 1965 – December 5, 2015. Faribault— Dr. Christopher D. Robert, age 50, of Faribault and Minneapolis, MN, died unexpectedly on December 5, 2015 in Minneapolis, MN. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, December 12, 2015, at 1:00 p.m. at the Divine Mercy Catholic Church, 139 Mercy Drive, Faribault. Interment will be at the Calvary Cemetery in Faribault. Visitation will be held at the Parker Kohl Funeral Home, 607 2nd Ave. NW, Faribault, on Friday from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. at the church. Christopher David was born on October 29, 1965, in St. Clair Shores, Mich., to Francois and Christine (Kocsis) Robert. When he was 14 his family moved to Florida. Chris attended Gulf High School in New Port Richey and later worked as a paramedic/firefighter among other occupations. He obtained his pilot’s license and subsequently taught flight lessons to help put himself through undergraduate school at St. Leo University. Even now, he still took great pride in flying his Cessna. His determination to educate himself continued at Nova SE University Medical School in Miami. It was there where he met his wife, Kerry Ace, who also was in medical school. They were married on April 12, 1996. Since Kerry was further along in her medical school training when their son Evan was born, Chris played a great role early in his life and they established a tremendous bond as father and friend. Chris completed his Anesthesia Residency at the University of Minnesota, with his last year as Chief Resident. For the past 11 years, he has been an Anesthesiologist at Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC) and the last five years was the Chief of Anesthesiology. At HCMC he took great responsibility as Chief and cared for many of the high-profile cases that went to Hennepin County Medical Center, even doing the anesthesia for one of Kerry’s ER partners. From their beginning at medical school, Chris and Kerry supported and cared for each through many events in life, knowing each other deeply. They loved to travel to large cities such as New York and New Orleans. Their Minneapolis residence provided them with an apartment close to work and many events they enjoyed in downtown. As Evan’s hockey career developed and he enrolled at Shattuck-St. Mary’s, they became enamored with the small community of Faribault. Knowing also their daughter Jennifer could receive her education in a close knit Catholic environment at Divine Mercy and Bethlehem Academy, they moved to Faribault and still continued to commute for their professions. Chris was very involved with his children’s sports. He was invested and cared for Evan and his hockey friends. He often would jokingly give advice to his nieces, nephews and many of Evan’s friends about their future careers, always wanting them to reach their highest potential as he had strived for himself. He was in tremendous awe of his daughter Jennifer. At a very young age she survived three heart surgeries, and her determination made an impact on him. He loved watching her play volleyball and the two of them had a close loving relationship. Chris enjoyed the banter in political conversations with others from a different viewpoint than his. It wasn’t for argument sake, but for all to take stake in what they believe in, even though he may not have been politically correct! He also was a generous person, many times giving donations to homeless shelters and others without expecting any recognition for his generosity. He will be greatly missed by many. He is survived by his wife of 19 years, Kerry Ace of Faribault; loving children, Evan and Jennifer Robert; mother, Christine (Bob) Broadstock of Holiday, FL; father, Francois Robert of Montreal, Canada; sister, Jacqueline Robert (Mark Forsythe) of Montreal; brother, Francios Robert of Holiday, FL; half brothers, Gabe, Luke, Noah, and Ulysse; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Margaret and Robert McCrae; sister-in-law, Vicky Robert; and stepfather, Howie Pelz. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Christopher David Robert Memorial Scholarship Fund which will be established at Bethlehem Academy. For online condolences, tributes, and further information, please visit www.ParkerKohlFuneralHome.com [Faribault Daily News; GHS Class of 1983]

ROBINSON, James P., 33, of Hudson, passed away on Dec. 2, 2008. Born in Lakewood, NJ. He is predeceased by his grandmother Mary Robinson and uncle Daniel Steinhauer. He is survived by his mother Denise, father Gene; grandmother Arlene; brothers Gene Jr., Sean, Ryan and Joseph and sisters Erin & Mary. A gathering will be held Friday, Dec. 5th, from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm, with a service at 7 pm. A private Graveside service will be held on Saturday, at Florida Hills Cemetery at 12 pm. Visit www.prevattfuneralhome.com. [Class of 1993]

ROBISON, RONALD R. SR., 59, of Port Richey, died Monday (April 18, 1994) at home. Born in Louisville, Ky., he came here 20 years ago from Niantic-Harristown, Ill. He was a teacher and a coach for the Boys and Girls Cross Country Team and the Girls Varsity Basketball Team at Gulf High School, New Port Richey. He was a Marine veteran of the Korean War, a member of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, and the Elks Lodge 2286, both of New Port Richey. He was the Pasco County teacher of the year in 1977-1978. Survivors include his wife, Shirley; two sons, Ronald Jr., Fort Bliss, Texas, and Ricci, Dayton, Ohio; two daughters, Rhonda, Fort Campbell, Ky., and Robin, Tampa; a brother, Larry, Dade City; a sister, Bonita Owens, Jonesboro, Tenn.; and six grandchildren. Faupel Funeral Home, Port Richey.

ROBSON, ROBERT E., GHS Class of 1966, died on Aug. 8, 2017. He was the younger son of Dr. Frank Y. Robson, one of the earliest doctors in New Port Richey. He was born on July 2, 1948. A memorial service will be held Sat., Aug. 12, at 11 a.m. at Meadowlawn Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 4244 Madison Street.

ROGERS, SHEILA JEAN. Sheila was born on September 20, 1957 and passed away on Friday, July 5, 2019. Sheila was a resident of New Port Richey, Florida at the time of passing. She lived most of her life in New Port Richey and graduated from Gulf High School. A visitation for Sheila will begin on Saturday, July 13, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at Memory Chapel Funeral Home, 3100 Audubon Drive, Laurel, Mississippi 39440 with the service following at 11:00 a.m. at Memory Chapel. [GHS Class of 1975]

ROSSI, GRACE IVA, 91, of New Port Richey, died Saturday (Sept. 13, 2003) at Hernando-Pasco Hospice in New Port Richey. Born in Port Richey, she was a lifetime resident of Pasco County. She owned Rossi’s Sunset Diner at U.S. 19 and State Road 52 at Bayonet Point from 1950 to 1968. She was a life member of the West Pasco Historical Society and was a member of Baker House Restoration Program. She was a member of the Florida State Genealogical Society and was awarded several Florida County Pioneer Descendant Certificates. She was Methodist. Survivors include her son, Earl Jack Bates Jr., New Port Richey; a sister, Frances Mallett, Port Richey; a granddaughter, Elena “Laney” LeCompte, Hudson; a grandson, Earl Jack Bates III, Midland, Texas; four great-grandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren. Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Home, New Port Richey.

ROUSH, RAY R. 76, New Port Richey, died Oct. 16, 2011. Retired owner of Rays Cabinet Supply. Survivors: wife, Cora; daughters, Barbara (Bruce) Waters, Susan (David) Berge; 6 grandchildren, Jeremy Waters, David, Tiffany, Timothy, Heather, Heidi Berge; great-grandchildren, Bryson, and Chase Taylor. Visitation Friday, Oct. 21, 5-8 pm with services Saturday, 12 Noon at Dobies Funeral Home Congress dobiesfuneralhome.com [GHS Class of 1952]

ROWE, SGT. MICHAEL DAVID “MIKE,” 23, of New Port Richey, died Tuesday (March 28, 2006) in Iraq. He came here 15 years ago from his native Buffalo, N.Y. He was serving in the Army 46 Engineer Battalion Warrior Brigade, Rahmadi, Iraq. He was a sergeant and petroleum supply specialist stationed at Fort Polk, La., before being deployed to Iraq on Oct. 21, 2005. He was Christian, a graduate of the Class of 2001 from Gulf High School, and a member of the VFW Post 4412. Survivors include his wife, Rebecca Rowe, New Port Richey; his parents, David E. and Marcy L. Rowe, New Port Richey; three sisters, Megan E. Rowe, New Port Richey, Kellie Hess and Danielle Sumner-Rowe, both of Plantation; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. [Michael’s daughter was born after he died.] Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Home, Congress Street Chapel, New Port Richey.

RUMLEY, JAMES DEWEY, III, 54, of New York City, died on Thursday, June 23, 2016. A native of Maiden, NC, Mr. Rumley was a graduate of Gulf High School in New Port Richey, FL, and of Davidson College, where he majored in philosophy. He also earned an MFA in Sculpture at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston and was working on an MFA in Poetry at The New School in Manhattan at the time of his death. Mr. Rumley’s creative talent also made itself manifest in music; he was a talented percussionist, playing over the years with such Southern pop bands as The Popes, Stumble, Discord, and The Lovely Lads. Survivors include his sister, Caroline Rumley, her husband Hiram Maxim, and their daughter Audrey Pearl of Atlanta and his aunt, Helen Cleek, of Elon. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. James D. Rumley, Jr. and Charlotte Bridewell Rumley Swain. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Art Department at Davidson College. Davidson College, Box 7170, Davidson, NC 28035, Designation is the Davidson College Art Department. [GHS Class of 1980]

RUSHING, REBECCA L. “BECKI,” 31, of Hudson, died Thursday (May 13, 1993) at HCA Bayonet Point/Hudson Medical Center. She came here 19 years ago from her native Chicago. She was a graduate of Gulf High School. Survivors include her father, Jim, New Port Richey; her mother, Carol Ehrke, Hudson; two brothers, Jim Rushing, Las Vegas, Nev., and Jon Ehrke, Hudson; two sisters, Laura Stubbs, Port Richey, and Dawn Brensinger, Las Vegas; and two maternal grandmothers, Madolyn Retherford, Hudson, and Irene Retherford, West Palm Beach. Arlington Funeral Home, Port Richey.

RUSS, MARY “ME FRIERSON,” of Old town died Thursday [August 26, 2004] at her home. She was 75. Mrs. Russ was born in Seven Springs and was a fourth generation “Florida Cracker.” She was self employed. She attended Gulf High School, where she was head cheerleader in 1947. She moved to Dixie County in 1980, where she owned and operated The Brown Jug until her retirement in 1989. She was an active member of Calvary Temple Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, James A. Russ. Survivors include sons Eddie Russ of New Port Richey and Jimmy Russ of Cedar Key; daughters Dianne Buck of Cross City and Marcia Reynolds of New Port Richey; a brother, R.L. Frierson of Georgia; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Arrangements by Rick Gooding Funeral Home in Cross City.

RUSS, PATRICK “EDDIE,” 69, of New Port Richey, FL, went to his heavenly home December 1, 2016. He was born September 11, 1947 in Elfers, FL. He is preceded in death by his father, James Anderson Russ; his mother, Mary E. (Frierson) Russ; and his sister, Marcia C. Reynolds. He is survived by his loving wife, Dana Jo; his daughter, Debra Christine LaFave; his sister, Dianne J. Buck of Cross City; his brother, James A. Russ of Cedar Key; many nieces and nephews; in-laws; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren. A fifth generation West Pasco resident, he graduated in 1965 from Gulf High School. He was a jovial fellow who loved little league baseball and played for his high school football team. He served 30 faithful years as a lineman for Florida Power Company before retiring to his airboat. He loved to fish, hunt, and he greeted everyone with his sweet, charming southern smile. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. prevattfuneralhome.com

RUSSO, CYNTHIA JEAN (HARTLEY), died on April 17, 2021, from Covid complications. She is survived by her husband Joe Russo, her 2 children, Jimmy and Nichole, and her 7 grandchildren, Ryleigh, Raymond, Athena, Tyler, Scarlett, Kolton, and Avia. She was GHS Class of 1973.