Bruce Eugene Corbitt, Sr, a devoted family man and farmer, passed away on Friday, July 10, 2026. Bruce was born on February 1, 1952 in Fort Myers, Florida to Frank and Eloise Corbitt.
Raised in Immokalee, Florida along with his seven siblings, Bruce graduated from Immokalee High School in 1970 before pursuing his life-long career as a farmer. In 1978, he was recognized as “Outstanding Young Farmer” by the Naples Jaycees. He spent the rest of his life raising various crops including cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes and some of the most delicious watermelons ever grown. Bruce’s life was marked by dedication, hard work, and generosity. Bruce hated to see those he cared about struggle when he could do something about it. From local schools, churches, friends, to family, he always helped where he saw a need.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Sharon Bancroft Corbitt; his six children and their spouses: Susan (Wade), Nathan (Wendy), Bruce Jr (Bethany), Field (Crystal), Ashley (David), and Summer (Dustin); his fourteen grandchildren; his three great-grandchildren; and his siblings Kathy Ann, Sarah (George), and Calvin. He was also a beloved brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, and mentor to those in our extensive family. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brothers: Jimmy, Jason, Steve, and Ralph.
Services will be held Friday, July 24, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Faith Community Church in Immokalee, Florida with food and fellowship to follow. We ask that only close family attend the private graveside farewell.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to LaBelle High School’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) club. Please note “FFA memorial donation” on your contribution to ensure it is routed to the correct account.
Southwest Florida Online News
From LaBelle, Florida for Hendry and Glades County and the Lake Okeechobee region. Don Browne, editor.
Friday, July 17, 2026
Thursday, July 16, 2026
Google Smart Speakers - Unreliable Say Buyers
Customer feedback regarding the reliability of Google smart speakers has turned increasingly negative, with users citing a noticeable decline in software stability, voice recognition accuracy, and connectivity.
While older hardware was historically praised for its longevity, long-time users on platforms like Reddit report that the ecosystem has become unreliable.
The most common complaints from customers focus on several key areas of reliability:
Commands that used to work flawlessly now frequently fail. Users report that speakers regularly say they "don't understand" or fail to stop simple timers. Long-time customers express frustration that the product has "gotten worse over time," with some attributing the decline to Google shifting its focus toward Gemini AI chatbots while letting standard smart home development stagnate.
Devices frequently drop their network connection, prompting the speaker to say, "I can't reach the internet right now." Users complain that they must constantly power-cycle or factory-reset their devices just to keep them online. Bluetooth pairing with external speakers is also criticized for constantly lagging, stuttering, or failing to auto-connect from an idle state.
The integration between the speakers and the Google Home app has become highly unstable. Customers frequently report that asking a speaker to trigger smart lights, switches, or thermostats fails to register, or causes the speaker to shout verbal confirmations when it was supposed to just chime silently.
For the newly launched in June standalone Google Home Speaker, early adopters have reported that the initial setup process stalls out completely partway through, leaving the device bricked out of the box.
While Google has pushed a software patch requiring users to unplug and plug the speaker back in to force an update, the immediate reliability failure has soured early impressions.
How U.S. Purchase Of Intel Stock Is Working Out - U.S. Is 2nd Largest Stockholder
The "deal" made by the Trump administration with Intel consists of two major components: a historic $8.9 billion government equity investment in the company and brokered partnerships to manufacture chips domestically for Apple, and Nvidea producing custom chips.
In August 2025, the U.S. government reached an agreement with Intel to acquire a 9.9% equity stake in the company. The government invested $8.9 billion to purchase 433.3 million shares at $20.47 per share. This was funded by repurposing unspent CHIPS and Science Act funds ($5.7 billion) along with Secure Enclave defense funds ($3.2 billion).
In August 2025, the U.S. government reached an agreement with Intel to acquire a 9.9% equity stake in the company. The government invested $8.9 billion to purchase 433.3 million shares at $20.47 per share. This was funded by repurposing unspent CHIPS and Science Act funds ($5.7 billion) along with Secure Enclave defense funds ($3.2 billion).
The government's stake is passive, meaning it holds no board representation or voting control over standard company matters. The administration removed previous conditions tied to the original CHIPS Act grants in order to give Intel capital stability and reinforce the domestic semiconductor supply chain.
To revitalize Intel’s business and bring chip design and production onshore, the administration helped orchestrate major industry agreements: President Trump announced a deal for Intel to design and build chips for Apple's devices in the United States. The White House facilitated a $5 billion investment into Intel by Nvidia, which also involved Intel producing custom data center chips.
These interventions were part of the administration's broader "America First" strategy to secure the U.S. semiconductor industry. While the actions resulted in major stock market gains and manufacturing commitments, they also drew criticism from lawmakers like Senator Elizabeth Warren, who raised concerns about the lack of specific worker safeguards and the risks involved with the government directly taking equity in a single corporation.
The administration did not need new permission from Congress, but it did need the agreement and consent of Intel's board and leadership to make the deal. Because Congress had already authorized the executive branch to distribute the semiconductor funds, the administration maintained the legal flexibility to structure the payout as an equity purchase rather than a traditional cash grant.
The government could not simply seize the shares; the transaction was a negotiated corporate agreement that required Intel's formal consent. The deal was struck directly between President Trump and Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan.
To revitalize Intel’s business and bring chip design and production onshore, the administration helped orchestrate major industry agreements: President Trump announced a deal for Intel to design and build chips for Apple's devices in the United States. The White House facilitated a $5 billion investment into Intel by Nvidia, which also involved Intel producing custom data center chips.
These interventions were part of the administration's broader "America First" strategy to secure the U.S. semiconductor industry. While the actions resulted in major stock market gains and manufacturing commitments, they also drew criticism from lawmakers like Senator Elizabeth Warren, who raised concerns about the lack of specific worker safeguards and the risks involved with the government directly taking equity in a single corporation.
The administration did not need new permission from Congress, but it did need the agreement and consent of Intel's board and leadership to make the deal. Because Congress had already authorized the executive branch to distribute the semiconductor funds, the administration maintained the legal flexibility to structure the payout as an equity purchase rather than a traditional cash grant.
The government could not simply seize the shares; the transaction was a negotiated corporate agreement that required Intel's formal consent. The deal was struck directly between President Trump and Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan.
Intel was facing heavy financial pressure and needed immediate capital stability. In exchange for giving up a 9.9% stake, the government removed strict "claw-back" and profit-sharing restrictions that had been tied to Intel's original federal grants.
To make the deal acceptable to Intel and its other shareholders, the government agreed to a completely passive ownership structure. The U.S. government holds no board seats, has no special corporate governance power, and is legally obligated to vote its 433.3 million shares alongside Intel's existing board of directors on almost all standard shareholder matters.
In a dramatic and unprecedented move, the U.S. government has become the second-largest shareholder in Intel acquiring a 9.9% share. The U.S. government has made approximately $32.6 billion in open paper profits on its investment in Intel. Because the government has not sold its shares, these gains are technically unrealized, meaning they fluctuate daily based on the stock market.
The explosive growth of the investment is driven by Intel’s dramatic stock rally. In August 2025, the U.S. government purchased 433.3 million shares at an adjusted cost basis of $20.47 per share (a total layout of $8.9 billion). Following an incredibly strong first half of 2026 buoyed by record Q1 earnings and blockbuster manufacturing partnerships with Apple and Nvidia Intel's stock closed at $95.89 per share.
In a dramatic and unprecedented move, the U.S. government has become the second-largest shareholder in Intel acquiring a 9.9% share. The U.S. government has made approximately $32.6 billion in open paper profits on its investment in Intel. Because the government has not sold its shares, these gains are technically unrealized, meaning they fluctuate daily based on the stock market.
The explosive growth of the investment is driven by Intel’s dramatic stock rally. In August 2025, the U.S. government purchased 433.3 million shares at an adjusted cost basis of $20.47 per share (a total layout of $8.9 billion). Following an incredibly strong first half of 2026 buoyed by record Q1 earnings and blockbuster manufacturing partnerships with Apple and Nvidia Intel's stock closed at $95.89 per share.
The government's 433.3 million shares are currently worth $41.5 billion, representing a massive gain from the original $8.9 billion.
The government's paper profits actually peaked near $52 billion when Intel hit an all-time high of $140.94 per share. While the stock has experienced a minor pullback, it still sits nearly 370% higher than it did prior to the administration's intervention.
The government's paper profits actually peaked near $52 billion when Intel hit an all-time high of $140.94 per share. While the stock has experienced a minor pullback, it still sits nearly 370% higher than it did prior to the administration's intervention.
Furthermore, the $32.6 billion profit figure does not factor in the additional stock warrants the U.S. holds. As part of the original agreement, the government locked in the legal right to purchase an additional 5% of Intel's common stock at a locked price of just $20 per share. With the stock trading near $96, those warrants hold immense latent value if the administration ever decides to exercise them.
Would you like to see how Intel’s financial turnaround compares to other top semiconductor companies,
The U.S. government is legally allowed to sell its Intel shares starting next month, in August 2026.
The timing and rules governing a potential sale are structured around explicit corporate constraints and intense political debate.
When the Trump administration negotiated the equity deal on August 22, 2025, the contract included a standard one-year mandatory lock-up period. This provision legally bars the federal government from selling, trading, or offloading any portion of its 433.3 million shares on the open market for 12 full months.
Would you like to see how Intel’s financial turnaround compares to other top semiconductor companies,
The U.S. government is legally allowed to sell its Intel shares starting next month, in August 2026.
The timing and rules governing a potential sale are structured around explicit corporate constraints and intense political debate.
When the Trump administration negotiated the equity deal on August 22, 2025, the contract included a standard one-year mandatory lock-up period. This provision legally bars the federal government from selling, trading, or offloading any portion of its 433.3 million shares on the open market for 12 full months.
The restriction was put in place to prevent the government from immediately "flipping" the stock for a quick profit, which would have flooded the market, panicked investors, and crashed Intel’s stock price. Because the deal closed in late August 2025, this restriction formally expires in August 2026.
Even after the lock-up expires, the government may face new legislative rules on how it must exit the position. Members of Congress are currently pushing back against extended government intervention in private markets.
Even after the lock-up expires, the government may face new legislative rules on how it must exit the position. Members of Congress are currently pushing back against extended government intervention in private markets.
A bill introduced in June 2026 by Senator Jon Husted aims to establish strict guardrails for unwinding federal equity positions. If passed, the legislation would mandate that federal agencies fully liquidate and unload any corporate equity stakes within 8 years of acquisition. For Intel, this would force a total exit by 2033.
Lawmakers behind the bill argue that once an investment has served its industrial purpose (e.g., stabilizing the semiconductor supply chain), the government must step away so future administrations cannot use the shares to politically manipulate private corporations.
While the government can begin selling shares next month to lock in its billions in paper profits, market analysts and political experts expect a cautious approach. Unloading 9.9% of a massive tech giant all at once would trigger intense stock market volatility. Instead, any exit strategy will likely involve selling the shares in highly controlled, gradual blocks over several years to protect both market stability and taxpayer gains.
While the government can begin selling shares next month to lock in its billions in paper profits, market analysts and political experts expect a cautious approach. Unloading 9.9% of a massive tech giant all at once would trigger intense stock market volatility. Instead, any exit strategy will likely involve selling the shares in highly controlled, gradual blocks over several years to protect both market stability and taxpayer gains.
Wednesday, July 15, 2026
Hendry County Sheriff Arrests - Drugs, Probation Violations
ARREST BLOTTER
07/05/2026 – 07/12/2026
Felony/DUI Arrest
Yosniel Cueto-Linares, 43, Clewiston was arrested on July 7, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff G. Camacho on charges of Felony Probation Violation
Shawn David Sanders, 37, LaBelle was arrested on July 7, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff R. Conant on charges of Felony Violation of Conditions of Release and Misd. Contempt of Court
Mary Louise Miller, 65, LaBelle was arrested on July 7, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff G. Camacho on charges of Felony Probation Violation
Charles William Sikes, 40, Alva was arrested on July 8, 2026, by K9 Deputy M. Elsaid on charges of Possession of Firearm by Florida Convicted Felon, Tampering with Evidence and Obstruction without Violence
Jason Jones, 44, LaBelle was arrested on July 8, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff D. Givans on 3 counts of Felony Probation Violation
Robert Billy Ramos, 44, Immokalee was arrested July 8, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff R. Angelo on charges of Driving While License Suspended/Revoked – 3rd Subsequent Violation and Resist without Violence
Tony Raul Navarro, 40, Moore Haven was arrested on July 8, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff P. Overbee on charges of Felony Probation Violation
Manuel M. Avila, 54, LaBelle was arrested on July 8, 2026, by Det. D. Reaves on charges of Theft of Motor Vehicle, Driving with DL Expired more than 6 mths and Attached Tag not Assigned
Patricia Beatriz Hernandez Lizama, 24, Clewiston was arrested on July 9, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff M. Ramos on charges of Aggravated Child Abuse and Battery
Alyssa Marie Pasch, 31, Clewiston was arrested July 10, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff B. DiBernardino on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription
David Waylon Simmons, 45, LaBelle was arrested on July 10, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff R. Conant on charges of Felony Failure to Appear and Felony Violation of Condition of Releases
Jorge Luis Abreu Candales, 61, Belle Glade was arrested on July 11, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff A. McCarty on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription
Yasiel Azcuy Alfonso, 43, Clewiston was arrested on July 12, 2026 by Det. K. Rosado on charges of Aggravated Battery with Deadly Weapon, Aggravated Assault with Intent to Commit a Felony, Robbery and False Imprisonment
Jorge Luis Abreu Candales, 61, Belle Glade was arrested on July 11, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff A. McCarty on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription
07/05/2026 – 07/12/2026
Felony/DUI Arrest
Yosniel Cueto-Linares, 43, Clewiston was arrested on July 7, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff G. Camacho on charges of Felony Probation Violation
Shawn David Sanders, 37, LaBelle was arrested on July 7, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff R. Conant on charges of Felony Violation of Conditions of Release and Misd. Contempt of Court
Mary Louise Miller, 65, LaBelle was arrested on July 7, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff G. Camacho on charges of Felony Probation Violation
Charles William Sikes, 40, Alva was arrested on July 8, 2026, by K9 Deputy M. Elsaid on charges of Possession of Firearm by Florida Convicted Felon, Tampering with Evidence and Obstruction without Violence
Jason Jones, 44, LaBelle was arrested on July 8, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff D. Givans on 3 counts of Felony Probation Violation
Robert Billy Ramos, 44, Immokalee was arrested July 8, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff R. Angelo on charges of Driving While License Suspended/Revoked – 3rd Subsequent Violation and Resist without Violence
Tony Raul Navarro, 40, Moore Haven was arrested on July 8, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff P. Overbee on charges of Felony Probation Violation
Manuel M. Avila, 54, LaBelle was arrested on July 8, 2026, by Det. D. Reaves on charges of Theft of Motor Vehicle, Driving with DL Expired more than 6 mths and Attached Tag not Assigned
Patricia Beatriz Hernandez Lizama, 24, Clewiston was arrested on July 9, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff M. Ramos on charges of Aggravated Child Abuse and Battery
Alyssa Marie Pasch, 31, Clewiston was arrested July 10, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff B. DiBernardino on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription
David Waylon Simmons, 45, LaBelle was arrested on July 10, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff R. Conant on charges of Felony Failure to Appear and Felony Violation of Condition of Releases
Jorge Luis Abreu Candales, 61, Belle Glade was arrested on July 11, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff A. McCarty on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription
Yasiel Azcuy Alfonso, 43, Clewiston was arrested on July 12, 2026 by Det. K. Rosado on charges of Aggravated Battery with Deadly Weapon, Aggravated Assault with Intent to Commit a Felony, Robbery and False Imprisonment
Jorge Luis Abreu Candales, 61, Belle Glade was arrested on July 11, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff A. McCarty on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Obituaries - Pamela Dyess Spikes, Lance M. Whidden, Ruth Warren Miners, Rheannon Villareal Robbins
Pamela Dyess Spikes, affectionately known as Pam, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026, in Punta Gorda, Florida, at the age of 82. Born on June 29, 1944, in Miami, Florida, Pamela lived a life filled with devotion to God, her family, and kindness to all who knew her.
Pamela was the beloved daughter of Charlotte Dyess and William Francis Dyess, both of whom preceded her in death, as did her son Robert. From her earliest days in Miami, Pamela embraced the values instilled by her parents—compassion, integrity, and a gentle spirit. These qualities formed the foundation of the life she built and shared with others.
Pamela met and married Clyde Spikes, with whom she enjoyed a long and devoted marriage. Together, they created a warm and loving home filled with laughter. She was a proud and caring mother to their son, John Spikes, and daughter, Charlotte Spikes, both of whom survive her and continue her legacy of love and dignity, along with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Throughout her life, Pamela exemplified strength, grace, and resilience. She touched the lives of many, nurturing family and friendships with unwavering loyalty and care. Her warmth extended not only to those she loved most dearly but also to everyone fortunate enough to cross her path.
Family and friends are invited to honor Pamela’s memory at a visitation on Sunday, July 19, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Akin Davis Funeral Home in Fort Myers, located at 13932 Palm Beach Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33905. A burial service will follow on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Alva Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Alva, FL 33920.
In mourning her loss, those who loved Pamela also celebrate her remarkable character and compassion. While she will be deeply missed, her legacy will endure forever, alive in the hearts of those she cherished most.
We are saddened to announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Ruth Warren Miners, 95, of Fort Myers, Florida. She was born on March 9, 1931, in Philadelphia, Mississippi, to John and Bernice Watkins Warren and passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026, surrounded by family.
In 1950, Ruth married Curtis Miners, and together they shared 65 years of marriage. Curtis and Ruth built a life together in South Florida, where they owned and operated several grocery stores in Pahokee and Immokalee before retiring. She was renowned for her incredible southern cooking and legendary cakes, and one of her greatest joys was feeding the folks she loved. Ruth was a dedicated and loving wife and a selfless, devoted mother to her children. Her strength, warmth, and steady presence left a lasting mark on everyone who knew her.
Ruth was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Curtis Miners; her son, Alan Miners; and her great-granddaughter, Savannah Miners.
She is survived by her children, Steve Miners (Naples, FL) and Jay Miners (Fort White, FL); her grandchildren, Starr Miners, Jared Miners, Curt Miners, Jeb Miners, and Justin Miners; and six great-grandchildren.
A visitation will be held from 5:00–6:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle, FL, followed by a celebration of Ruth's life beginning at 6:00 p.m., with Rev. Cliff Gobble officiating. Ruth will be laid to rest the following day, Friday, July 17th, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at Port Mayaca Cemetery, resting once again beside her loving husband and son.
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We are saddened to announce the passing of our beloved daughter, mother, sister and friend, Rheannon Villarreal Robbins, age 27, passed away on July 10, 2026 in Immokalee, Florida.
Rheannon was born on September 10, 1997, in Naples, Florida to John Robbins, Sr, and Victoria Villarreal. She was a loving mother who took great care of her children and enjoyed doing fun things with them. She always had a smile on her face to share with everyone she would meet. Rheannon will be dearly missed by everyone who loves and knew her.
Rheannon leave fond memories with her children; Emma Sanchez and Lazarius Robbins, her mother Victoria Villarreal, her father; John Robbins, Sr, her sisters; Destiney Robbins, Mary Robbins, Thora Robbins, Liberty Robbins, and Grace Robbins, her brother; John Robbins, Jr, along with many extended family members and close friends.
Rheannon was preceded in death by her adorable son, Julian Sanchez.
Visitation for Rheannon will be 5-7 p.m., Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at First Seminole Baptist Church in Immokalee, Florida. Her funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m., July 15, 2026 at First Baptist Big Cypress on the Big Cypress Seminole Reservation. Rheannon will be laid to rest in the Big Cypress Cemetery also on the Big Cypress Seminole Reservation.
Pamela was the beloved daughter of Charlotte Dyess and William Francis Dyess, both of whom preceded her in death, as did her son Robert. From her earliest days in Miami, Pamela embraced the values instilled by her parents—compassion, integrity, and a gentle spirit. These qualities formed the foundation of the life she built and shared with others.
Pamela met and married Clyde Spikes, with whom she enjoyed a long and devoted marriage. Together, they created a warm and loving home filled with laughter. She was a proud and caring mother to their son, John Spikes, and daughter, Charlotte Spikes, both of whom survive her and continue her legacy of love and dignity, along with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Throughout her life, Pamela exemplified strength, grace, and resilience. She touched the lives of many, nurturing family and friendships with unwavering loyalty and care. Her warmth extended not only to those she loved most dearly but also to everyone fortunate enough to cross her path.
Family and friends are invited to honor Pamela’s memory at a visitation on Sunday, July 19, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Akin Davis Funeral Home in Fort Myers, located at 13932 Palm Beach Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33905. A burial service will follow on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Alva Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Alva, FL 33920.
In mourning her loss, those who loved Pamela also celebrate her remarkable character and compassion. While she will be deeply missed, her legacy will endure forever, alive in the hearts of those she cherished most.
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We are saddened to announce the passing of our father, grandfather, and friend; Lance M. "Bubba" Whidden has passed away on July 12, 2026 in Lake Wales, Florida after lengthy illness.
Bubba was born on January 15, 1939 in Wauchula, Florida to the late Griffin Milton and the late Ressie Mae Terrell Whidden. Bubba worked for many years as a cowboy, which he enjoyed doing all of his life. He also worked throughout the years as a heavy equipment operator and also spent awhile as a law enforcement officer. If the family had to say what Bubba enjoyed most was being around family and friends. Bubba was the true matriarch of his family, providing for his family the best way he knew. Bubba will be sorely missed by his entire family and all of his friends that he made throughout his cowboying days.
Bubba leaves fond memories with is children; William Whidden and his wife Julia, Steve Whidden and his wife Kassandra, and Cynthia Whidden. Bubba also leaves great memories with his grandchildren; Stephen Whidden and his wife Lauren, Kasey Whidden, William Whidden and his wife Courtney, Frances Jarsen and her husband Matthew, Grace Whidden, Johnny Whidden, CJ Minor and husband Steven, Kayla Whidden, great grandchildren; Weston L. Whidden, Lance H. Whidden, Stephen K. Whidden, and Thomas Jarsen, Bubba has two sisters-in-law who also survive, Maggie Whidden and Peggy Whidden, and a host of extended family members and close family friends.
Celebration of Bubba's life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the Celebration Barn in Alva, Florida. Please remember Bubba with a good joke and story and come share with the celebration of life well lived. Bubba is riding his horse along with all of his cowboy friends who have preceded him in the sky. Ride long Bubba!
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We are saddened to announce the passing of our father, grandfather, and friend; Lance M. "Bubba" Whidden has passed away on July 12, 2026 in Lake Wales, Florida after lengthy illness.
Bubba was born on January 15, 1939 in Wauchula, Florida to the late Griffin Milton and the late Ressie Mae Terrell Whidden. Bubba worked for many years as a cowboy, which he enjoyed doing all of his life. He also worked throughout the years as a heavy equipment operator and also spent awhile as a law enforcement officer. If the family had to say what Bubba enjoyed most was being around family and friends. Bubba was the true matriarch of his family, providing for his family the best way he knew. Bubba will be sorely missed by his entire family and all of his friends that he made throughout his cowboying days.
Bubba leaves fond memories with is children; William Whidden and his wife Julia, Steve Whidden and his wife Kassandra, and Cynthia Whidden. Bubba also leaves great memories with his grandchildren; Stephen Whidden and his wife Lauren, Kasey Whidden, William Whidden and his wife Courtney, Frances Jarsen and her husband Matthew, Grace Whidden, Johnny Whidden, CJ Minor and husband Steven, Kayla Whidden, great grandchildren; Weston L. Whidden, Lance H. Whidden, Stephen K. Whidden, and Thomas Jarsen, Bubba has two sisters-in-law who also survive, Maggie Whidden and Peggy Whidden, and a host of extended family members and close family friends.
Celebration of Bubba's life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the Celebration Barn in Alva, Florida. Please remember Bubba with a good joke and story and come share with the celebration of life well lived. Bubba is riding his horse along with all of his cowboy friends who have preceded him in the sky. Ride long Bubba!
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We are saddened to announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Ruth Warren Miners, 95, of Fort Myers, Florida. She was born on March 9, 1931, in Philadelphia, Mississippi, to John and Bernice Watkins Warren and passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026, surrounded by family.
In 1950, Ruth married Curtis Miners, and together they shared 65 years of marriage. Curtis and Ruth built a life together in South Florida, where they owned and operated several grocery stores in Pahokee and Immokalee before retiring. She was renowned for her incredible southern cooking and legendary cakes, and one of her greatest joys was feeding the folks she loved. Ruth was a dedicated and loving wife and a selfless, devoted mother to her children. Her strength, warmth, and steady presence left a lasting mark on everyone who knew her.
Ruth was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Curtis Miners; her son, Alan Miners; and her great-granddaughter, Savannah Miners.
She is survived by her children, Steve Miners (Naples, FL) and Jay Miners (Fort White, FL); her grandchildren, Starr Miners, Jared Miners, Curt Miners, Jeb Miners, and Justin Miners; and six great-grandchildren.
A visitation will be held from 5:00–6:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle, FL, followed by a celebration of Ruth's life beginning at 6:00 p.m., with Rev. Cliff Gobble officiating. Ruth will be laid to rest the following day, Friday, July 17th, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at Port Mayaca Cemetery, resting once again beside her loving husband and son.
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We are saddened to announce the passing of our beloved daughter, mother, sister and friend, Rheannon Villarreal Robbins, age 27, passed away on July 10, 2026 in Immokalee, Florida.
Rheannon was born on September 10, 1997, in Naples, Florida to John Robbins, Sr, and Victoria Villarreal. She was a loving mother who took great care of her children and enjoyed doing fun things with them. She always had a smile on her face to share with everyone she would meet. Rheannon will be dearly missed by everyone who loves and knew her.
Rheannon leave fond memories with her children; Emma Sanchez and Lazarius Robbins, her mother Victoria Villarreal, her father; John Robbins, Sr, her sisters; Destiney Robbins, Mary Robbins, Thora Robbins, Liberty Robbins, and Grace Robbins, her brother; John Robbins, Jr, along with many extended family members and close friends.
Rheannon was preceded in death by her adorable son, Julian Sanchez.
Visitation for Rheannon will be 5-7 p.m., Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at First Seminole Baptist Church in Immokalee, Florida. Her funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m., July 15, 2026 at First Baptist Big Cypress on the Big Cypress Seminole Reservation. Rheannon will be laid to rest in the Big Cypress Cemetery also on the Big Cypress Seminole Reservation.
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