Frederick-Dean Funeral Home

06/03/2026

06/03/2026

Brandon “Aiden” Morgan

08/09/2007 - 05/25/2026

It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Brandon “Aiden” Morgan, who departed this world peacefully on May 25, 2026, at the tender age of 18. Born on August 9, 2007, in Alexander City, AL, Aiden was a beacon of light and love in the lives of all who knew him.

Aiden was cherished by his devoted parents, Tamara Morgan and Brandon Morgan (Emily Bryant), who nurtured his compassionate spirit and gentle heart. His life, though short, was rich with the love of his children, Tidus and Iris Morgan, who were the joy of his world.

He is survived by a large and loving family, including his grandparents, Julie and Randy Golden, and Edward Jones, who guided him with wisdom and grace, and his great-grandmother, Sue Bennett, who witnessed the beauty of his growth. Aiden’s siblings, Randall Morgan, Jaydin Bryant, Elaina Morgan, Nova Morgan, and Kaylee Bryant, shared countless adventures and memories with him, weaving an enduring tapestry of family bonds.

Aiden’s life was further enriched by the presence of his aunts and uncles, Heather Butler, Joey Hawsey, Cherokee Wood, Adam Kitchens, Scott and Amanda Thomas, and Sam and Neil Suggs, along with his dear nieces, Amiri’ and Alonie Hutchinson. His extended family, including numerous cousins, held him close in their hearts, cherishing the moments they shared.

Aiden was preceded in death by his beloved Mawmaw, Lesia Morgan, Grammaw, Sylvia Mulder, and Granny G, Generia Appel, whose spirits surely welcomed him into eternal peace.

An adventurous soul, Aiden found joy in the simplicity of nature, spending countless hours hunting, fishing, and camping, reveling in the great outdoors. He loved nothing more than riding his motorcycle and listening to his music. He was a friend to all, known for his soft heart and unwavering willingness to help anyone at any time, embodying the true essence of kindness and generosity.

Aiden’s academic journey culminated in his proud achievement of obtaining his GED this past March, a testament to his determination and resilience.

A celebration of Aiden’s life will be held on June 5, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Frederick-Dean Funeral Home, located at 1801 Frederick Road, Opelika, AL 36801. His viewing will be from 9am until 11am. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor his memory and the beautiful legacy he leaves behind.

In this time of grief, Aiden’s family extends their deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers received during this difficult period. Your kindness has been a source of comfort and strength.

Aiden’s warmth and light will forever remain in our hearts, reminding us of the beauty of a life well-lived, no matter how brief. Rest in peace, dear Aiden, knowing that you are loved beyond measure and missed beyond words.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

06/03/2026

Ralph Leonard Bess

02/20/1944 - 05/29/2026

Ralph Leonard Bess, age 82, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2026. He was born on February 20, 1944, in Charleston, West Virginia, and lived a life centered on family, hard work, and a love for the outdoors.

An avid outdoorsman, Ralph enjoyed hunting and playing golf. These passions brought him joy, peace, and many lasting memories shared with family and friends. He will be remembered for his strength, kindness, humor, and unwavering love for his family. His presence touched many lives, and his legacy will continue through the generations he helped shape.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Bess Sr. and Charmaine O’Conner; siblings, Nancy Regalley, Cecilia (“Cege”) Bess, and Gene Henderson; daughter, Charmaine Kebble.

He is survived and cherished by his beloved Wife, Margaret Ann Bess; siblings, Michael Bess and wife Marsha Bess, Donald Bess and wife Debbie Bess, Bobby Bess, Lynn (Robert) Musselwhite, and Kenneth Henderson; children, Robert C. Bess (Christina), David Padgett (Marie), and Thomas C. Padgett (Keshia); Legacy of Love, 24 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, 17 nieces and nephews, along with many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

“Though he is no longer with us, his memory will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.”

FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS ❤️

There will be a celebration of life on Saturday June 6 located at Newsong Baptist Church on Alabama Highway 51 Opelika Al, 36804.

06/02/2026

Eleanor “Bonnie” Laney

2/22/1952 – 5/30/2026

Eleanor “Bonnie” Laney, age 74, of Beulah, AL, went to be with our Lord and Savior on May 30, 2026.

Bonnie is preceded in death by her father Milton Smith Jr, mother Mary L Smith, and brother Byron “Bubba” Smith. She is survived by her son Michael Smith, sisters Lenora (Johnny) Daniel and Beatrice (Ken) Norman, brother Carl (Donna) Smith, and several nieces and nephews.

Bonnie was a lifelong member of Wallace Chapel Baptist Church and spent many years of her life as a caregiver to others. Among her greatest joys were the cats she cherished and considered part of the family. Bonnie was also a devoted Auburn Tigers fan and never missed a chance to chant “War Eagle”.

She requested that no memorial services be held.

06/02/2026

Bailee Alyssa Ward

05/19/2008 - 05/22/2026

Bailee Alyssa Ward, of Reeltown, Alabama, was born on May 19, 2008, at Baptist East Hospital in Montgomery, Alabama. She passed away on May 22, 2026, in Wetumpka, Alabama, just hours after celebrating her graduation from Reeltown High School.

Bailee was a bright and beloved young woman whose smile, kindness, and spirit touched the lives of everyone who knew her. She attended Souls Chapel in Tallassee, Alabama, and cherished her family, friends, and community.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Jace Baker.

Bailee is survived by her parents, Samantha Baker (JoJo) and Josh Clark (Stephanie); her siblings, Cami Baker, Shyla Ward, Corey Clark, Jaxon Clark, and Bonus Brother Chris McBride; along with numerous friends, nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members. She also leaves behind her beloved fur baby, Dartania, affectionately known as "Goose."

Though her time on earth was far too short, Bailee's love, laughter, and beautiful spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for the joy she brought into the lives of others and for the love she shared so freely with family and friends.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home in Opelika, Alabama. Funeral services will immediately follow in the Frederick-Dean Funeral Home Chapel from 11:00 a.m. until 11:40 a.m., officiated by Brother Joshua Dixon. Interment will follow at Antioch Cemetery.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

06/01/2026

"Some losses don't just hurt for a while, they hurt for a lifetime". -Narin Grewal

The loss of a loved one is painful. Grief can be overwhelming, but preserving memories can help ease the pain and celebrate a special life. Contribute to their online memorial to pay homage to your loved one, share memories, and remember all the little moments together.

05/29/2026

Tips for Finding the Perfect Senior Living Place for Dad
Moving to a senior living community is a big step for all aging adults, but it can be particularly difficult for elderly men with care needs. Women tend to dominate the resident population in most senior living communities. This leads many men to believe that senior living communities can’t accommodate their needs and interests. However, communities often incorporate activities and amenities specific to aging men to help them feel at home.
https://www.aol.com/5-tips-finding-perfect-senior-115700744.html

Moving to a senior living community is a big step for all aging adults, but it can be particularly difficult for elderly men with care needs.

05/29/2026

Ronnie Flournoy 12/ 22/1959 - 04/13/2026

Please join us for a Celebration of Life honoring Ronnie Flournoy at 1:00 on Saturday, June 6, at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home in Opelika. To celebrate Ronnie's spirit, we encourage guests to wear Auburn colors or patriotic attire.

05/28/2026

Protecting your peace of mind after a loss. 🤍

Many families don't know that you can drastically reduce unwanted mail, emails, and marketing calls for a deceased loved one. The Deceased Do Not Contact List (DDNCL) is a free registry that tells companies to remove a loved one's details from their marketing campaigns.

It’s a small step that can save a lot of emotional energy.It’s a hidden gem of consumer privacy that most people only discover when they need it most. The Deceased Do Not Contact List helps protect your loved one’s identity and stops painful reminders from cluttering your mailbox.

Pass this along to anyone who might be navigating the paperwork and logistics of losing a family member.
The direct link to register a loved one is:
https://www.ims-dm.com/cgi/ddnc.php
(Note: The registration is hosted by the DMA on their official IMS-DM consumer care portal).