http://www.trahanfamilyfuneralhome.com/

Trahan Family Funeral Home, 60 Industrial Boulevard, Pensacola, FL (2026)

06/17/2026

Susan VanOrd
1942 - 2026

Susan Ellen VanOrd, of Cantonment, Florida, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2026. She was born on July 31, 1942, in West Palm Beach, Florida, to James Elbert Johnson and Ellen Hager Johnson.

Susan is survived by her sisters, Belinda (Mikko) Matero and Lynda (Michael) Howell; her brother, James (Peggy) T. Johnson; her daughter, Carol Durell (Frederick) McGhee; and her bonus children: Linda (Johnny) Nemes, Joann (Lone Wolf) Calvin, Grace Philips, and Jack (Brandy) VanOrd, Jr.; grandsons, Thomas McGhee, Lawrence (Leah) McGhee and Sunny Island Durell; bonus grandchildren: David VanOrd, Krystal Philips, Cherie Philips, and Carrie Jo Clark; and great-grandchildren: Anastasia McGhee Budianto, Avalynn McGhee, Junior McGhee, Anthony McGhee, Elijah McGhee, Gabina McGhee, Aidyn Clopton, Jenni McGhee, Kinsley McGhee, and Ruby McGhee.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jack VanOrd; her son, Charles Durell; her bonus son, Joseph VanOrd; her granddaughter, Shannon Ellen Durell McGhee; and her bonus great-grandchildren, Emily and David VanOrd, Jr.

Susan earned her associate’s degree from Pensacola Junior College and worked as a case worker for the State of Florida’s Division of Children and Families until her retirement. She and her late husband, Jack, shared a deep passion for serving the homeless community in Pensacola and faithfully operated Emerald Coast Ministries, a homeless shelter, for many years. Her lifelong dedication to service also included being a faithful Salvation Army soldier.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to VITAS Hospice at Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital; the staff of 5E and 2E/2W; James and Mary Durell; officiant, Thresa Hogue; Major Charles “Chuck” Granat and Major Ed Strong of the Pensacola Salvation Army Corps; and the extended McGhee family for their care, compassion, and support.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on June 18, 2026, at Holy Cross Cemetery, 1300 E. Hayes St., Pensacola, Florida. Family and friends are invited to attend.

06/16/2026

Pearlie Mae Harris
1931 - 2026

Pearlie Mae Harris, 95, of Milton, departed this precious life on June 11, 2026. She was born to Lee and Ortonce Hill on March 26, 1931, in Spring Hill, FL.

Pearlie was a domestic worker and found much joy in helping others. She was a faithful member of the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church where she served on the Usher Board and sang in the choir.

Pearlie built a life centered on faith, family, and kindness. Her hobbies were cooking, gardening, and shopping.

Pearlie was preceded in death by her late husband of 35 years, Silas Harris.

She leaves to cherish her memories her three sons: Bruce Harris (Beverly), Major Harris, and Jefferey Harris; one daughter, Sonia Faye Wilson (John); three sisters: Dorothy Hill, Stella Hill, and Roxanne Budweg; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and her special caregiver and friend, Lisa Wright.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026 at Trahan Family Funeral Home of Milton.

Visitation will also be held from 11:00 a.m. until funeral service begins at 12 noon on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church.

Burial will follow at Morton Cemetery.

Pearlie’s memory will forever live in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

06/16/2026

Keeley Diamond
1982 - 2026

Keeley Keturah Diamond, 43, of Pensacola, FL, passed away on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Baptist Hospital. She was born in Oklahoma City, OK, to her parents, Keturah Fordham and Jerry Michael Diamond, on July 11, 1982.

Keeley grew up singing and playing piano; she loved to spend time with her cousins. In her early adulthood, Keeley spent her time caring for her two kids, Jared and Carissa.

She was married to her husband, Chris, for 20 years until his passing. Keeley loved her two kids dearly but granddaughter, Madelynn, stole her heart in 2023 and was her “KeKe’s” best friend.

She dedicated the last two and a half years of her life to Spreading Awareness for Fentanyl Poisoning and was a practicing Southern Baptist woman of God.

Keeley loved music, especially singing, writing songs, and playing the piano. She was known for her kind heart and giving nature. Keeley not only helped people in need, but she also loved and cared for stray animals.

She is preceded in death by her father, Mike Diamond; grandparents, Mary Beth Long and Theresa and Cecil Diamond; husband, Chris Odom; and her mother-in-law, Sharon Odom.

Keeley leaves her memories to be cherished by her children, Jared Odom and Carissa (Roland) Odom; granddaughter, Madelynn Hanasan; mother and stepfather, Keturah and Paul Wylemski; brother, Mike (Christina) Diamond; sisters-in-law, Heather (Daniel) Josey, Ashley Odom, and Traci Odom; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the nursing staff at Baptist Hospital ICU and cousin, Joni Diamond, for all the care and support you have given to our loved ones.

Visitation will be from 1:30 p.m. until memorial service begins at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Trahan Family Funeral Home.

Keeley’s pride and joy wereher two children and granddaughter. She loved being Maddie’s “KeKe” more than anything she had ever done. Keeley’s legacy will live on with them.

06/12/2026

Dennis C. Hatcher
1946-2026

Dennis C. Hatcher, Sr., 79, of Milton, FL, passed into Eternal Rest on June 9, 2026, surrounded by his devoted family.

Dennis was born in Harold on August 7, 1946 to Oscar and Leoma Hatcher. He was a graduate of Milton High School and then began a life-long career as a skilled electrician. He was a member of IBEW Local #676 and a retiree of the Santa Rosa County School District Maintenance Department. Dennis was also a member of Ferris Hill Baptist Church.

Dennis was a loving husband, son, father, brother, and uncle, and his greatest joy was his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, along with Tebow, his furry companion. Paw Paw D**k leaves his family a lifetime of warm memories, legendary stories, and unconditional love. Though we are deeply saddened by his absence now, we know that we will see him again when we meet our Lord and Savior in Heaven.

Preceding him in death are his parents; brothers: Jake, Dewey, and Cecil; sisters: Annie Laura, Betty Jean, Barbara, and Ellen; and his stepchildren, Kim Hobbs Smith and Danny Hobbs, Jr.

Left to honor and cherish his memory are his devoted and loving wife of 44 years, Carolyn Sue Hatcher; children, Kimberley (Eugene) Manning and Dennis C. “Denny” Hatcher, Jr.; son-in-law, Jimmy Smith; daughter-in-law, Monica Hobbs; grandchildren: Dillion (Ashlynn) Smith, Dakota (Sherry) Smith, Brooke (Mat) Bosler, Callie (Spencer) Frizzell, Tucker (Jessica) Hobbs, Evan (Alisha) Manning, Hunter (Jamie) Hatcher, and Tayner Hatcher; great-grandchildren: Branson, Lanie Jo, Scarlett, Walker, Ava, Abigail, Emmy Lou, Waylon, Braxton, Braelynn, Kash, Lakyn, Sadie, Graham, Grayson, and Wrenley; sisters: Linda (Ken) Cunningham and Beverly (Dallas) Holland; sisters-in-law: Mildred Hatcher, Brenda Hatcher, Betty Williams, and Sandra Baxley; brother-in-law, Ricky (Pam) Hinote; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

The family extends much gratitude to Emerald Coast Hospice, nurses Brittany and Gail, and Chaplain Greg, for their exceptional care and compassion and to all friends and loved ones who have supported the family with prayers, condolences, and meals.

Following Dennis’ wishes, a graveside service will take place at Harold Cemetery at a later date.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”

06/11/2026

Wynell Nowling Gunter
1935 - 2026

On June 7, 2026, our beloved Mother, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother, Wynell Nowling Gunter, went home peacefully to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Wynell was born on August 28, 1935, in Jay, Florida, to Arthur and Mamie Lou Nowling. She was the oldest of their two daughters. Wynell was raised on the family farm where they grew cotton, peanuts and other garden vegetables. She was no stranger to hard work and spent many days in the fields helping bring in the crops to be sold to support their family.

Wynell graduated from Jay High School where she played on the girls’ basketball team. After graduating, she met and married Lee Andrew Gunter, Sr. They were married on June 4, 1953, and together they raised four children: Donald, Lee, Jr., Susan and Dale. They were happily married until Lee’s death in 2003.

Once their children were all in school, Wynell began her career in retail sales with Gayfers in the Town and Country Plaza shopping center. She enjoyed her job and worked in many different departments of the store. She especially loved the people she worked with and maintained many friendships well after her retirement.

Wynell was also dedicated to the Ensley United Methodist Church, now known as Ensley Community Church. She served on various committees through the years and was always willing to participate in any ministry opportunity. If you sat down to have a conversation with her, it wouldn’t take long for her to mention her love for the Lord and how blessed she was to have a personal relationship with Him.

Wynell was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Mamie Lou Nowling; her husband, Lee Andrew Gunter, Sr.; her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Jesse and Smithy Gunter; her daughter and son-in-law, Susan Gunter Jacobson and Ricky Jacobson; her sister and brother-in-law, Caroline Nowling Andrews and Eugene Andrews; her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Wynell Gunter Messick and Sam Messick; and her brothers-in-law, Bobby Ray Gunter and Gary Gunter.

She is survived by her sons and their wives: Donald Gunter and Cherial, Lee Gunter and Cathy, and Dale Gunter and Kellie; and her grandchildren and their spouses: Ricky Jacobson, Brandon Gunter and Britni, Erin Gunter Daniels, Devin Gunter Sanders and Jon, Megan Gunter Bolen and Andrew, Elizabeth Gunter, John Gunter, Jesse Gunter and Brayden. She has also been blessed with great-grandchildren: Jaxson and Brycen Daniels, Braylynn Jacobson, Cooper and Ellie Gunter, Gabriel, Gracelyn, Makenna, Emily and Mason Bolen, and her newest great-granddaughter, Scottie Gunter. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. until the funeral service begins at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, June 12, 2026 at Trahan Family Funeral Home of Milton.

Our family would like to thank the nurses and doctors at West Florida Hospital who have taken such good care of our mother over the past several months as her health began to decline, and the staff of Vitas Hospice where she spent the last couple of days in their care. We would also like to thank Pastor Gina Bryan and the members of Ensley Community Church for the love and support you have shown us during these difficult days.

And last, but not least, our family would like to say an extra thank you to our nephew and her oldest grandson, Ricky Jacobson and his daughter, Braylynn. Several years ago, Ricky and Braylynn moved in to help take care of his Granny when she needed a little extra help. From that point on, we never had to worry about her well-being. From cooking and cleaning, to making sure she got to doctors’ appointments and anything else she needed, he made sure it was done. Ricky, you were her first grandson, and you stepped up in ways that many would not have, and Granny was so proud of you and grateful for all that you and Braylynn did for her. So, from Granny and all of the family, Thank You!

06/10/2026

John L. Mitchell
1935 - 2026

John L. Mitchell, Major US Army (RET), Vietnam Veteran and Mason, passed away peacefully at the age of 91. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He was born in Calera, Alabama, and raised in Haleyville, Alabama, where he was inducted into the Winston County Sports Hall of Fame. John LOVED ALABAMA FOOTBALL.

John is preceded in death by his father and stepmother, Ira and Ethel Mitchell, and sisters, Marylou Goodson and Judy Dickinson.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 68 years, Joan Mitchell; children: John Mitchell, Jr. (Sam), Robert Mitchell, Jerald Mitchell (Stephen), and Susan Mitchell; grandchildren: Brandi Thurman (Stebo), Ryan Mitchell, Brentley Mitchell, Brystol Mitchell; and great-grandsons, Blaine Thorsen and Colton Thurman.

A graveside memorial service at Barrancas National Cemetery with Masonic ceremony and full military honors will take place at 9:30 am on Monday, June 22, 2026. Please gather at Trahan Family Funeral Home to join the funeral procession leaving at 9:00 am.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in John's memory to Tunnel to Towers:
https://dogood.t2t.org/campaign/in-memory-of-john-l-mitchell/c809908

Or the Wounded Warrier Project:
https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org

06/09/2026

Dr. Thomas Burke Westcott
1946-2026

Dr. Thomas Burke Westcott, age 79, passed away on Monday, June 1, 2026. He was born on November 23, 1946, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Dr. Westcott dedicated his life to education and the development of students. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in History in 1967, his Master of Education in Counseling in 1971, and his Doctorate in Student Personnel Services in 1974, all from The Pennsylvania State University.

Over the course of his distinguished career, Dr. Westcott served at several institutions, including Western Carolina University, the University of Guam, Pfeiffer College, and the University of West Florida. At UWF, he spent 29 years as a beloved Psychology Professor and held numerous leadership roles, including Assistant Dean, Associate Dean, and Dean of General Studies. He retired in 2019 and was honored multiple times with the University of West Florida Distinguished Teaching Award for his dedication and excellence in education.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Westcott lived a full and adventurous life. He enjoyed riding Harley-Davidson motorcycles, playing pool and tennis, scuba diving, and reading. He was known for his wisdom, sharp mind, and the lasting impact he made on his students, colleagues, and all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Theron and Phyllis Westcott.

He is survived by his loving wife, Vicki Westcott; his children: Michael Westcott (Katherine), Kim Watson (Al), Stephanie Shaw (Mike), and Cory Neet; his grandchildren: Christopher Westcott, Courtney Reed, Dennis Ratliff, Tucker, Tenley and Teagan Register, Ryder and Lennox Neet, Cooper Westcott, Jake Watson, Courtney Dunn, Austin Watson, Gabriel and Brandon Shaw; and his sisters, Debbie Westcott and Nancy Hauske (Jerry).

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 13, 2026, at Trahan Family Funeral Home in Pensacola, Florida. Visitation with family and friends will begin at 12:00 p.m., followed by the service at 1:00 p.m.

Dr. Westcott will be remembered as an incredible man whose wisdom, guidance, and compassion shaped the lives of many. His legacy lives on through the countless students he mentored and the family he loved deeply.

06/08/2026

Jake Odom
1935 - 2026

Carlton Jacob “Jake” Odom, Jr., 90 years old, of Pensacola, FL, peacefully went into the arms of Jesus, surrounded by family at his home, on Sunday, May 24, 2026.

Jake was born on July 20, 1935, in Darlington, SC, to his parents Carlton Jacob Odom, Sr. & Schadie Dees Odom. Jake was the eldest of five children. He enjoyed spending his childhood with his grandfather, William Henry Dees (“Daddy Bill”), hunting, and fishing. After high school, Jake proudly began service to his country in The United States Navy as a cryptologist. He went on to oversee the cryptology program at Corry Station in Pensacola, FL. After 20 years of devoted service, he retired Master Chief, CTOCM. During his time in the Navy, Jake lived in California, Guam, Japan, Virginia, Hawaii, Pensacola and finally in Puerto Rico where he retired in 1975. During his time in the Navy, Jake received multiple awards recognizing his faithful, zealous & obedient service to his country. He then moved back to Pensacola, FL and worked another 20 years in his civilian career as a manager with Moore Business Forms.

On January 3, 1958, Jake married the love of his life, Beverly “Bev” Ann (Getsinger) Odom. They had two children together, Steven Jacob “Stevie” Odom and Robert “Kevin” Odom. They enjoyed a wonderful 68 years of marriage, setting a beautiful example of love, teamwork and devotion to one another.

Jake had a rich life, full of love and adventure. He enjoyed trips with his wife and buddies on his Goldwing motorcycle. Jake also loved to fish and target practice at the shooting range. He loved spending time with family, making memories with his grandchildren and serving his wife in any way he could.

Jake was a devoted man of God who will be remembered by his kindness, devotion, sense of humor and humility. He never met a stranger and had a way of touching the lives of all that he met.

He is preceded in death by his son, Stevie Odom; his parents; his four siblings: Herman Randolph Odom, William Franklin Odom, Earnest Ray Odom, and Patricia Anne Odom, and his eagerly awaited great-grandson, Noah Thomas Burke.

Jake is survived by his loving wife, Bev Odom; his son, Kevin Odom; his grandchildren, Shelbey (Kenneth) Burke and Ryan (Jade) Odom; and his great-grandchildren, Easton, Waylon, and Lane.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to all who were a part of Jake’s care team over the last several months, with special thanks to Brittany Gaulden and Tracey Locke.

On Friday, June 19, 2026, Jake will be laid to rest at Barrancas National Cemetery with his son, Stevie. We invite all who would like to honor Jake’s life to gather with us at Trahan Family Funeral Home on Industrial Boulevard at 8:30 a.m. for a procession to Barrancas National Cemetery for a graveside service at 9:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to People’s Hospice in Jake’s memory.

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26.

06/04/2026

Karen Jane Price
1948 - 2026

Karen Jane Price (nee Long) of Milton, FL, went to be with her Savior June 3, 2026. Karen was born in Waukegan, IL, to James and Polly Long. She attended Round Lake High School and graduated in 1966. During a volunteer stint in February of 1967 at the Christian Servicemen’s Center in North Chicago, she met the love of her life, Jesse. They married on December 16, 1967, and shared 58 wonderful years together.

Karen was a homemaker by trade, but she was so much more than that. She devoted her life to serving others and her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Karen and Jesse moved to Milton in 1970 where they eventually found a church home at Trinity Baptist Church. During her years at Trinity, she was a faithful choir and music ministry member, Junior Church pianist, and principal of the Trinity Baptist Satellite Schools homeschool for 25 years. She operated a successful seamstress business and taught many women how to sew and cook. Above all, she loved being Grandma Price to her 14 grandchildren, and although her health was ailing when the great-grandchildren came, she adored “her babies.” Karen was loved by many, and she will be missed by her family and community.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents; daughter-in-law, Brenda Ann; and nephew, Ray.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Jesse; five sons: Jesse III (Shelly), Jonathan (Tina), Jason (Nadina), Jimmy (Elizabeth), and Jeremy (Rachel): 14 grandchildren: Katie, Kristen, Lizzi (Evan), Hannah (Brandon), Ashlyn (Sam), Samuel, Kimberly, James, Clayton (Hannah), Jonathan, Stephen, Jessa, Olivia, and James Jr.; 5 beloved great-grandchildren, Asa, Judah, Wyatt, Arwen, and Clarence; 3 brothers, Harold (Betty), Roger (Renee), and Sam (Denise); as well as nieces and nephews. She leaves behind a legacy of selflessness and love for others. Her kindness touched many lives throughout the years, and she will be greatly missed by those blessed to know her.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Trinity Baptist Church in Milton, FL, starting at 1 pm with a public viewing from 11 am to 1 pm. The burial service will be at Serenity Gardens on Stewart Street following the service. The family invites everyone to attend a meal at the Trinity Baptist Church fellowship hall following the burial service.

If desired, memorial gifts can be sent to Trinity Baptist Church where a donation will be made in her name to Bible Literature and Missionary Foundation.

06/03/2026

Joe M. Newton
1945 - 2026

Joe Max Newton, 80, of Cantonment, Florida, passed away on June 1, 2026. A man of adventure, intellect, and generous spirit, Joe lived a life marked by curiosity, exploration, and a deep love for hiking.

Joe was born on December 29, 1945, in Dozier, Alabama, on his grandfather’s farm, to Garland and Flora Newton. His family later relocated to Pensacola, Florida, where he was raised alongside his siblings Lamar, Eleanor, and Arnold. He graduated from Pensacola Technical High School in 1964 and went on to attend the Georgia Institute of Technology on scholarship.

During his time at Georgia Tech, Joe participated in cooperative education programs, spending his summers working with Pan American Airlines and NASA, where he had the opportunity to be in mission control during space missions. He went on to complete his studies, earning a master’s degree in electrical engineering.

Joe took great pride in his work, often referencing his involvement in specialized government-related projects and his experiences connected to NASA. His career reflected both technical brilliance and a spirit of innovation, eventually leading to his retirement from Raytheon after many years of meaningful contributions.

An entrepreneur at heart, Joe lived in the Stone Mountain and greater Atlanta, Georgia area for over three decades. During those years, he owned two computer companies and later opened his own restaurant, Max’s. It was also there that he met the love of his life, Ute. In 2005, Joe swept her away—quite literally—on a helicopter ride to the floor of the Grand Canyon, where they were married. Together, they shared 21 years of love, partnership, and adventure.

An avid hiker, Joe felt most at home on the trail. During his later years living in Oro Valley, Tucson, Arizona, he regularly explored the surrounding desert landscapes. Hiking, for Joe, was never about completion or achievement—it was about the experience itself: the quiet, the challenge, the scenery, and the stories. He playfully dubbed himself the “Desert Dog” and delighted in inviting others to join him along the way.

Some of his most cherished experiences were shared with family: regular hikes in Oro with his wife, Ute; hiking the Appalachians with his nephew, David aka “Daddy Longlegs”; and enjoying a memorable Coast to Coast walk across Northern England with his sister Ellen—an adventure he loved not for its end, but for the joy of walking it together.

Joe also created lasting memories by leading family travels, including a European river journey and a road trip to the Northwestern National Parks. His generosity and love for shared experiences left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Though he appreciated many culinary delights, Joe was often happiest with simple pleasures—a good tequila and a hamburger. He was also a devoted pet owner, sharing special years in Arizona with his wife, Ute, and their Schnauzers, Elke and Pepper.

In quieter moments, Joe was a poet and a reflective soul. He often wrote about his life’s journeys—especially the meaning found in walking, wandering, and observing the world around him. His appreciation for enduring beauty is echoed in these lines from John Keats:
“A thing of beauty is a joy for ever:
Its loveliness increases; it will never
Pass into nothingness…”
Joe sought that beauty throughout his life—in landscapes, in relationships, and in every road and trail he explored.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Ute Newton; his sister, Ellen (Roger) Chatwood; his brother, Arnold (Debbie) Newton; his nephews, Randy (Lisa) Newton, David Newton (Paul Townsend) and Michael Chatwood; his nieces, Debra Jo (Guy) Franklin and Lisa (R.D.) Clark; and many great- and great-great- nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Lamar.

Joe will be remembered for his adventurous heart, sharp mind, thoughtful spirit, and the many paths he walked—both in the world and in the lives of those who loved him.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, June 5, 2026, at Holy Cross Cemetery.

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