John Russell Yancey, known to his family and friends as Russ, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026. He was 85 years old.
Born on March 7, 1941, in Jacksonville, Florida, Russ lived a life characterized by steady commitment to his family and faith.
He spent over 35 years as a bank executive and mortgage banker. During that time, he became a familiar figure in Southwest Florida, helping families navigate the complexities of homeownership with patience and a calm, dependable presence. Before establishing his career, he served in the United States Army from August 3, 1961, to September 12, 1970. He retired as a Warrant Officer 2 and served in Vietnam. The discipline and perspective he gained during his military service stayed with him, and he often enjoyed sharing stories from those years.
On February 28, 1976, he married Carol. They celebrated 50 years of marriage, a milestone they recently marked. He was a devout Catholic, finding strength and consistency in his faith.
He bore the loss of his sons, John R. Yancey, Jr., and Patrick H. Yancey, with a quiet dignity.
Russ’s world revolved around his family. He found great joy in his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Carol; his son, William S. Stagner; his grandchildren, Jason (Christie) Yancey, Miranda (John) Middleton, and Jay Yancey; daughter-in-law, Veronica Yancey; and his great-grandchildren, MacKenzie, Kopper, Rylee, Charlotte, Ella, and Ember. He was also close with Judy Seelback, his sister-in-law, as well as his brothers-in-law and their wives: Michael and Rosey Brockamp, and Dan and Deborah Brockamp. He held his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and extended family in high regard, always valuing the time spent together.
He bore the loss of his sons, John R. Yancey, Jr., and Patrick H. Yancey, with a quiet dignity.
When he wasn't working, Russ enjoyed simple pleasures. He was an avid bowler for many years and took pride in teaching the sport to local youth. He enjoyed watching football and was rarely one to turn down a game of cards.
A visitation will be held on August 12, 2026, from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. at Akin Davis Funeral Home, located at 13932 Palm Beach Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33905. A mass will follow at 10:30 a.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 13031 Palm Beach Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33905. He will be laid to rest at Alva Cemetery, on Cemetery Road in Alva, FL 33920, at 12:00 p.m.
Russ lived a full life, not marked by grand gestures but by the consistent and dependable way he showed up for those he loved. He will be deeply missed.
Friday, August 07, 2026
Glades Fatal Traffic Death - Driver Convicted After Two-Day Trial
Moore Haven (August 7, 2026) – Kimaini Jharon Holmes, of Ocala, was convicted of Leaving the Scene of a Crash Involving Death, following a two-day trial in Glades County.
Assistant State Attorney Evan Chaput and Assistant State Attorney Natalie Savino, Circuit Court Chief, prosecuted the case.
The crime happened on September 21, 2024, just after 4 a.m. The defendant was driving a semi on U.S. 27, near Boar Hammock Ranch Road, and hit a pedestrian who was in the northbound lane. The defendant drove off without stopping.
Another driver came across the scene as the defendant was driving away and immediately called 911. While that witness was on the phone with 911 reporting the incident, the victim was run over by a second vehicle. The driver of that second vehicle immediately stopped. The victim, a 19-year-old man, died on scene.
The defendant’s semi was located in Georgia several days later. The Florida Highway Patrol conducted an extensive investigation leading to the identification and arrest of the defendant.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 28, 2026.
Wednesday, August 05, 2026
Should You Make A Phone Call During A Traffic Stop?
Making a phone call during a traffic stop can be risky.
Police officers may view reaching for a phone as a threat or a sign you are hiding something or signaling someone to come to the scene. Using your phone can quickly escalate a routine stop into something more serious.
Ask for permission before reaching for your phone if your digital license or insurance is on it. Narrate your actions clearly, telling the officer exactly where the phone is located. Avoid sudden, sharp movements when handling any device in your vehicle.
You generally have the right to record police in public spaces. This right does not mean you can use your phone whenever you want. An officer can order you to stop recording or put the phone away if it interferes with safety.
Police officers make immediate judgments when you reach for or use a phone during a traffic stop. Their primary concern is safety and control of the situation and to make sure your attention is not diverted during questioning.
Officers will always make a threat assessment of your movements and speech: Reaching into pockets or bags for a phone looks identical to reaching for a hidden weapon.
Using a phone signals that you are not paying full attention to their commands, which increases tension. Typing or looking down can make an officer think you are trying to hide contraband or coordinate with someone.
An officer might order you to put the phone down immediately.
Picking up a non-emergency call can be interpreted as a lack of respect, defiance, or a refusal to cooperate.
Ask for permission before reaching for your phone if your digital license or insurance is on it. Narrate your actions clearly, telling the officer exactly where the phone is located. Avoid sudden, sharp movements when handling any device in your vehicle.
You generally have the right to record police in public spaces. This right does not mean you can use your phone whenever you want. An officer can order you to stop recording or put the phone away if it interferes with safety.
Distracting the officer can lead to charges of obstruction or failure to obey.
Best Practices During a Traffic Stop By Law Enforcemen
Keep both hands visible on the steering wheel.
Tell the officer before you reach for your phone to get insurance or documents.
Wait until the stop is completely over to make non-emergency calls.
Record video from a fixed, visible mount if you choose to record the stop.
Tell the officer before you reach for your phone to get insurance or documents.
Wait until the stop is completely over to make non-emergency calls.
Record video from a fixed, visible mount if you choose to record the stop.
Video courtesy YouTube: City of Pahokee, Palm Beach, Fl arrest April 22, 2026
Obituaries - Elliot Curtis, Judith Peeples, Ramiro Ortiz
It is with deep respect and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ramiro “Estrellita” Ortiz, Sr., who departed this life on July 30, 2026, in Fort Myers, Florida. Ramiro was born on December 3, 1982, in La Heroica Ciudad De Tlaxiaco, Oaxaca, Mexico, and throughout his forty-three years, he was a man known for his devotion to family, peaceful spirit, and unwavering faith.
Ramiro’s devotion to those around him touched many—his kindness, patient wisdom, and generous spirit left a lasting impression.
Ramiro’s journey began in the vibrant lands of Oaxaca, where he was instilled with the values of love, humility, and fortitude by his parents, Reyna Maria Sanchez De Ortiz and Rufino Ortiz Hernandez, who survive him. He carried these values with him as he built a life filled with meaning and surrounded himself with loved ones.
A dedicated family man, Ramiro found his greatest joy in the embrace of his beloved wife, Edith Adriana Ortiz. Their enduring partnership was the cornerstone of a close-knit family that flourished through the years. Together, they raised children who were the pride of his heart: daughters Yuriko Ramirez (and her husband, Mitchel Herbert), Sara Ramirez (and her husband, Jusue Orduna), Marisabel Ortiz (and her husband, Nelly Hernandez), and sons Ramiro Ortiz (and his wife, Eva Marquez) and Fernando Eleazar Ortiz. His bond with each of them was a testament to his caring and steadfast nature.
Ramiro’s legacy continues to shine brightly through his precious grandchildren, Aurora Amari Herbert, Adriana Ariel Ortiz, and Luna Sue Ortiz. Their lives are enriched by the countless memories and gentle guidance lovingly given by their grandfather.
He carried these values with him as he built a life filled with meaning and surrounded himself with loved ones.
He is also survived by his cherished siblings, Angela Patricia Ortiz, Francisco Ortiz, Sr., Carlos Ortiz, and Ana Ortiz. The connections shared among these siblings were rooted in deep affection and mutual respect, forming an unbreakable family foundation.
Ramiro’s devotion to those around him touched many—his kindness, patient wisdom, and generous spirit left a lasting impression and created bonds that extended beyond his immediate family. He was affectionately called “Estrellita,” a name reflecting the light he brought into the lives of all who knew him.
Those who had the privilege of being a part of Ramiro’s life speak of his peaceful demeanor, unwavering faith, and dedication to family. There was a quiet strength in him that inspired those he encountered—a strength evident in every aspect of his life. As God called him home, Ramiro departed this world surrounded by love, as he had lived.
The family wishes to honor and celebrate Ramiro Ortiz, Sr.’s life with the following services: A Mass will be held on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, located at 350 South Bridge Street, LaBelle, Florida. Friends and family are invited to a visitation on the same day from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Akin Davis Funeral Home – LaBelle, 560 E Hickpochee Ave, LaBelle, FL. Burial will follow on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Fort Denaud Cemetery, 710 Fort Denaud Cemetery Road, LaBelle, FL, where Ramiro will be laid to rest.
The imprint Ramiro “Estrellita” Ortiz, Sr. leaves behind is profound. He will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched with his warmth and generosity. As we say goodbye, we remember and honor his gentle soul, keeping his memory alive in our hearts forever.
----
Some people leave footprints behind. Others leave a legacy. Judith Lee Peeples left both.
Ramiro’s journey began in the vibrant lands of Oaxaca, where he was instilled with the values of love, humility, and fortitude by his parents, Reyna Maria Sanchez De Ortiz and Rufino Ortiz Hernandez, who survive him. He carried these values with him as he built a life filled with meaning and surrounded himself with loved ones.
A dedicated family man, Ramiro found his greatest joy in the embrace of his beloved wife, Edith Adriana Ortiz. Their enduring partnership was the cornerstone of a close-knit family that flourished through the years. Together, they raised children who were the pride of his heart: daughters Yuriko Ramirez (and her husband, Mitchel Herbert), Sara Ramirez (and her husband, Jusue Orduna), Marisabel Ortiz (and her husband, Nelly Hernandez), and sons Ramiro Ortiz (and his wife, Eva Marquez) and Fernando Eleazar Ortiz. His bond with each of them was a testament to his caring and steadfast nature.
Ramiro’s legacy continues to shine brightly through his precious grandchildren, Aurora Amari Herbert, Adriana Ariel Ortiz, and Luna Sue Ortiz. Their lives are enriched by the countless memories and gentle guidance lovingly given by their grandfather.
He carried these values with him as he built a life filled with meaning and surrounded himself with loved ones.
He is also survived by his cherished siblings, Angela Patricia Ortiz, Francisco Ortiz, Sr., Carlos Ortiz, and Ana Ortiz. The connections shared among these siblings were rooted in deep affection and mutual respect, forming an unbreakable family foundation.
Ramiro’s devotion to those around him touched many—his kindness, patient wisdom, and generous spirit left a lasting impression and created bonds that extended beyond his immediate family. He was affectionately called “Estrellita,” a name reflecting the light he brought into the lives of all who knew him.
Those who had the privilege of being a part of Ramiro’s life speak of his peaceful demeanor, unwavering faith, and dedication to family. There was a quiet strength in him that inspired those he encountered—a strength evident in every aspect of his life. As God called him home, Ramiro departed this world surrounded by love, as he had lived.
The family wishes to honor and celebrate Ramiro Ortiz, Sr.’s life with the following services: A Mass will be held on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, located at 350 South Bridge Street, LaBelle, Florida. Friends and family are invited to a visitation on the same day from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Akin Davis Funeral Home – LaBelle, 560 E Hickpochee Ave, LaBelle, FL. Burial will follow on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Fort Denaud Cemetery, 710 Fort Denaud Cemetery Road, LaBelle, FL, where Ramiro will be laid to rest.
The imprint Ramiro “Estrellita” Ortiz, Sr. leaves behind is profound. He will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched with his warmth and generosity. As we say goodbye, we remember and honor his gentle soul, keeping his memory alive in our hearts forever.
----
Some people leave footprints behind. Others leave a legacy. Judith Lee Peeples left both.
At the age of 81, she went home to be with her Lord and savior Jesus Christ. The one she faithfully loved, served and told others about throughout her life. While our hearts are broken, Heaven is celebrating the arrival of a faithful servant.
If you knew her, you knew where she stood. Her faith was not something she only talked about on Sundays, it was how she lived everyday. She had a sensible way of reading people who were struggling, doubting or searching. Whether through a conversation a prayer, or simply the love she showed, she led many people to Christ and back to Christ.
She was a devoted wife of the love of her life Joey Peeples, even after his passing, her love for him never faded, She spoke of him often, missed him everyday and looked forward to the day they would be together again. That reunion has finally came. She is also reunited with her beloved son, Justin, whose loss she carried in her heart for years. We can only imagine the joy on that heavenly embrace.
To her children, she was simply Mom, and there was none quite like her. She taught her children about Jesus at an early age, that family came first and that faith would carry through anything that life brought your way. She was also a true Mama Bear; she loved to brag about her children and grandchildren. If you stood still long enough, you would hear all about them. She was their biggest fan.
Her greatest accomplishment were never measurable by money or possessions, but by the lives she touched, the faith she shared, and the family she loved with everything she had.
She leaves behind her children; Linda Peeples Martin (Dane), Joseph Henry Peeples, IV (Brandy), her grandchildren; Jenna Danielle Stpehens, Haley Stephens Allen (Josh), Taylor Dane Martin, Payton Marsh, Hank Peeples (Haley), Justin Peeples, Colton Marsh, and Emily Grace Peeples, along with her great-grandchildren; Gracie Joe Spencer, Braydon Palladino, Chandler Allen, Elizabeth Peeples, her two brothers; Ron Weisser (Debra) and Terry Weisser and countless nieces and nephews also survive Judith.
Mom, thank you for loving us when we did not deserve it, praying for us when we didn’t know we needed it, believing in us when we doubted ourselves and pointing us t Jesus.
Until we meet again, we will carry your faith, your strength and your love.
--
Elliott Elmo Curtis, affectionately known to many as George, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026, at the age of 92. Born on July 16, 1934, Elliott lived a remarkable life filled with compassion, resilience, and a steadfast devotion to those he loved.
If you knew her, you knew where she stood. Her faith was not something she only talked about on Sundays, it was how she lived everyday. She had a sensible way of reading people who were struggling, doubting or searching. Whether through a conversation a prayer, or simply the love she showed, she led many people to Christ and back to Christ.
She was a devoted wife of the love of her life Joey Peeples, even after his passing, her love for him never faded, She spoke of him often, missed him everyday and looked forward to the day they would be together again. That reunion has finally came. She is also reunited with her beloved son, Justin, whose loss she carried in her heart for years. We can only imagine the joy on that heavenly embrace.
To her children, she was simply Mom, and there was none quite like her. She taught her children about Jesus at an early age, that family came first and that faith would carry through anything that life brought your way. She was also a true Mama Bear; she loved to brag about her children and grandchildren. If you stood still long enough, you would hear all about them. She was their biggest fan.
Her greatest accomplishment were never measurable by money or possessions, but by the lives she touched, the faith she shared, and the family she loved with everything she had.
She leaves behind her children; Linda Peeples Martin (Dane), Joseph Henry Peeples, IV (Brandy), her grandchildren; Jenna Danielle Stpehens, Haley Stephens Allen (Josh), Taylor Dane Martin, Payton Marsh, Hank Peeples (Haley), Justin Peeples, Colton Marsh, and Emily Grace Peeples, along with her great-grandchildren; Gracie Joe Spencer, Braydon Palladino, Chandler Allen, Elizabeth Peeples, her two brothers; Ron Weisser (Debra) and Terry Weisser and countless nieces and nephews also survive Judith.
Mom, thank you for loving us when we did not deserve it, praying for us when we didn’t know we needed it, believing in us when we doubted ourselves and pointing us t Jesus.
Until we meet again, we will carry your faith, your strength and your love.
--
Elliott Elmo Curtis, affectionately known to many as George, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026, at the age of 92. Born on July 16, 1934, Elliott lived a remarkable life filled with compassion, resilience, and a steadfast devotion to those he loved.
Elliott was a pillar of strength and kindness.
Throughout his long and fruitful life, Elliott was a pillar of strength and kindness. He shared a devoted partnership with his beloved wife, Elsie Curtis, for 73 years. Together, they built a life rooted in love and mutual respect, offering an enduring example of commitment and care.
Throughout his long and fruitful life, Elliott was a pillar of strength and kindness. He shared a devoted partnership with his beloved wife, Elsie Curtis, for 73 years. Together, they built a life rooted in love and mutual respect, offering an enduring example of commitment and care.
Together, they built a life rooted in love and mutual respect, offering an enduring example of commitment and care.
Elliott was a lifelong beekeeper, carrying on a proud family tradition as a third-generation apiarist. He tended to his hives with the same patience and care he showed his family, finding a deep connection to the land and the seasons through his work.
His spirit was most at home in the great outdoors. He found a unique peace in the quiet patience of fishing and the steady focus of hunting, passions that allowed him to appreciate the simple beauty of nature. His love for adventure never faded with age; to celebrate his 80th birthday, he traveled to the rugged landscapes of Alaska, a trip that reflected his lifelong zest for exploration and his enduring strength.
In his younger years, Elliott was a standout on the diamond, remembered by many as a gifted and natural baseball player. His love for sports continued throughout his life, and he remained a passionate fan of basketball, rarely missing a chance to cheer on his favorite teams or discuss the latest game with friends and family.
Elliott leaves behind a cherished legacy through his son, David Curtis, and daughters-in-law, Carole Curtis and Lois Curtis. He took immense pride in watching his family grow and celebrated the joys of his granddaughters, Emily Curtis and Jessica Byers. Greg Byers, along with many nieces and nephews whom he cherished, shares in the family's grief and remembrance of Elliott's steadfast presence.
Elliott's life was also marked by loss. He was predeceased by his dear son, Micky Curtis, and his brother, Harold Curtis, whose memories he carried with him every day.
A man of true character and integrity, Elliott formed bonds that will last beyond his years. His gentle wisdom, quiet humor, and generous spirit touched every life he encountered. He will be remembered for his unwavering support, his thoughtful guidance, and the genuine warmth he extended to everyone he met.
He tended to his hives with the same patience and care he showed his family.
As his family and friends mourn his passing, they also honor a life lived with profound dignity and grace. The memories Elliott created, from the ball field and the beehives to the Alaskan wilderness, will be treasured for generations. Elliott Elmo Curtis will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love and respect by all whose lives he enriched.
Elliott was a lifelong beekeeper, carrying on a proud family tradition as a third-generation apiarist. He tended to his hives with the same patience and care he showed his family, finding a deep connection to the land and the seasons through his work.
His spirit was most at home in the great outdoors. He found a unique peace in the quiet patience of fishing and the steady focus of hunting, passions that allowed him to appreciate the simple beauty of nature. His love for adventure never faded with age; to celebrate his 80th birthday, he traveled to the rugged landscapes of Alaska, a trip that reflected his lifelong zest for exploration and his enduring strength.
In his younger years, Elliott was a standout on the diamond, remembered by many as a gifted and natural baseball player. His love for sports continued throughout his life, and he remained a passionate fan of basketball, rarely missing a chance to cheer on his favorite teams or discuss the latest game with friends and family.
Elliott leaves behind a cherished legacy through his son, David Curtis, and daughters-in-law, Carole Curtis and Lois Curtis. He took immense pride in watching his family grow and celebrated the joys of his granddaughters, Emily Curtis and Jessica Byers. Greg Byers, along with many nieces and nephews whom he cherished, shares in the family's grief and remembrance of Elliott's steadfast presence.
Elliott's life was also marked by loss. He was predeceased by his dear son, Micky Curtis, and his brother, Harold Curtis, whose memories he carried with him every day.
A man of true character and integrity, Elliott formed bonds that will last beyond his years. His gentle wisdom, quiet humor, and generous spirit touched every life he encountered. He will be remembered for his unwavering support, his thoughtful guidance, and the genuine warmth he extended to everyone he met.
He tended to his hives with the same patience and care he showed his family.
As his family and friends mourn his passing, they also honor a life lived with profound dignity and grace. The memories Elliott created, from the ball field and the beehives to the Alaskan wilderness, will be treasured for generations. Elliott Elmo Curtis will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love and respect by all whose lives he enriched.
A Lodge Called Folkestone - Living In The Smoky Mountains
The Dream, The Challenge, The People
by Bob Kranich
(Excerpt 27)
“The Lodge Called Folkestone”. You may wonder why the first half of the book is about my many adventures throughout the USA. Well, this first part explains just why my interests changed from hot rodding cars to backpacking. How the idea of a lodge came about, and just how the lodge came to be in North Carolina and next to the Smoky Mountain National Park, Deep Campground to be exact.
Following are our experiences and adventures over the next five months, in some sort of order as they happened living in Deep Creek Valley, Bryson City, North Carolina.
“Oh, hi Doc.”
“Bob, I was a wondering if’n you would like to help me make molasses for the park?” Doc asked.
“I sure would, Doc. What do I need to do?”
Doc replied, “It’ll be this Saturday, up at the Farmstead Museum, above Cherokee. Just wear some work clothes, because it can be a mite dirty.”
“What time will we head up there, Doc?”
“They open up about nine. We should get up there around eight to get the fire a-go’n. How about seven in the mor’n, sharp?”
“Ok, Doc, see you then, this Saturday.”
It seems that Doc had a job with the national park, just like Harold Jenkins. They used a lot of locals. When we got to the Farmstead, the first thing Doc and I did was to start a fire in this huge fireplace. We also tidied up the area. Doc was particular about things.
About that time, an old mountain farmer appeared leading a horse. He hooked him up to a big log arm out in the center of the field. Doc told me that the horse walked around in a circle, pulling on this log, which turned a cane mill. While the horse was going around, the farmer would put the sorghum cane into the cane mill, and it would squeeze the liquid out of the cane. Then, we would take the juice and strain it by pouring it through this burlap type cloth into our bucket. Finally, we would boil it in the huge flat rectangular pan that was laying on top of our fire pit. After some time of boiling, the water would evaporate out of the juice, and it would thicken, leaving molasses.
One thing I found out years later. Both the National Park Service and a postcard company took photos of Doc and me making the molasses. They made a postcard of it, and put it in a park magazine published by a magazine company. It was distributed in the Smokies by the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce. The postcard and a slide were sold in the national park gift shops, in local tourist shops, and who knows where else. Just think, Doc and I may still be together on a postcard being sold somewhere, and it’s been almost fifty years!
One day I got a call from my good Army buddy and friend, Ed Clement. It seems that Ed had gotten married.
“Hello, Bob Kranich here.”
“Hey Bob, this is Ed Clement.”
“Oh, hi Ed.”
“Bob, what I’m calling you about is that my wife and I are going to go on a three-month trip to England, Wales, and Scotland. We are going to visit her parents and also tour. Of course, you probably figured out that she is English. Would you two like to go with us?”
“It sounds interesting, Ed. I’ll talk to Irene and get back to you.”
“Tell you what, Bob. I will send the brochure on the special airline, three month tour. It is kind of a no-frills flight. They get you there, and then three months later, they pick you up and bring you back.”
We decided to take a look at the brochure, and then make a decision. Ed’s brochure arrived, and we reviewed it. It looked promising, and we decided to go. I called Ed to confirm. I can’t remember the details, but the flight wasn’t very expensive. Ed was correct. According to the brochure, it would definitely be a no-frills flight.
Before we left Al’s house, we had the idea to send out some resumes to see if I could find any contract work. I put a cover letter together, and sent out my resume to some of the national contract companies. It didn’t take long, and I got a call a couple of days later. A company wanted me to work for Kodak up in Rochester, New York. This was the same city I had worked in on my first contract job. It was after I had got out of the Army. I thought, here I go again, winter was coming on, just like the last time I worked up there. It’s going to be cold, but maybe this time I wouldn’t get laid off for Christmas.
Our time was up. Irene and I had to clean up, pack up, and leave the Smokies to get up to Rochester, New York. It was October of 1973, and we would not be back to the Smokies until the summer of 1976.
From the Author:
This is a new book. It is about the Lodge I built in the Smoky Mountains, near Bryson City, and Deep Creek campground, North Carolina. Having been from Florida, I know that a lot of Floridians love to visit the Smoky Mountains National Park. Therefore hopefully you will enjoy my story of the building of “A Lodge Called Folkestone”.
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