Frederick-Dean Funeral Home

Thank You Clergy! At Frederick-Dean Funeral Home & Crematory, we have had the privilege of witnessing the dedication and compassionate support provided by our area's beloved clergy. Through their teachings and spiritual counsel, they help us navigate grief and how it affects the families we serve.

Hiram D'Francis Williamson
9/23/1969 - 7/23/2024

Hiram D’Francis Williamson, aged 54, passed away on July 23, 2024, in Auburn, AL. Born on September 23, 1969, in Mobile, AL, Hiram led a life marked by devotion to his family and an unwavering spirit of generosity.

A graduate of W. P. Davidson High School, Hiram continued his education at Auburn University earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Adult Education. He was on the Auburn University Football Team as a defensive tackle wearing number 74. His thirst for knowledge led him to obtain a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. Hiram achieved a Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do. He was also a proud member of the Auburn University Letterman Club for many years.

Hiram was involved with the youth group at Cornerstone Church for many years, where he also worshipped during that time. His commitment to service was evident through his participation in multiple mission trips to Ecuador and Uganda alongside his wife, Jodi.

Hiram was a beacon of joy, known for his infectious laugh and a smile that never faded. His kindness knew no bounds, and he never hesitated to lend a helping hand. But above all, he was a devoted family man.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Jodi; his son, Vik Williamson (Heather), and daughters, Alexis and Jade Williamson; his devoted sister, Dana Williamson; mother-in-law, Bobbie Bishop; sisters-in-law, Chenel Brooks (John) and Jennifer Sedenquist; and his nieces, Hermaine Williamson and Helen Williamson; and nephews, Tony Chima, Cody and Ryan Brooks, and Jackson Sedenquist; along with a host of cousins. Hiram was preceded in death by his parents, Charletta and Herman Williamson, and his brothers, Herman and Dwayne Williamson.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 29th from 5-7 pm at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home in Opelika, AL. Funeral services are scheduled for Tuesday, July 30th at 1 pm at Cornerstone Church in Auburn, AL, followed by a graveside service at Town Creek Cemetery, Auburn, AL.

Hiram’s legacy of love, laughter, and service will forever be cherished and remembered by all who knew him.

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

Elven Wood Rudd
6/28/1929 - 7/24/2024

Elven Wood Rudd, 95, of Opelika, Alabama, and beloved mother of nine children, passed away peacefully in her sleep at her home on July 24, 2024, leaving a tremendous void in the lives of her family. She was born in Bald Rock, AL, on June 28, 1929.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ocie Lee Wood and Minnie Ophelia Howard Wood, her husband, Clarence Houston Rudd, Sr., brothers Robert Crawford Wood and William Jessie Wood, sisters, Minnie Lee Humphrey and Frances Wood Keefer, and grandson, Jeremy Steven Rudd.

She is survived by her daughter, Barbara Ann (Danny) Brewer; son, Clarence Houston (Kay) Rudd, Jr.; son, Ira Lee (Tammy) Rudd; son, Ronald R Rudd; son, Donald D (Susan) Rudd; all of Opelika; daughter, Margaret Marie (Greg) Lancaster, of Dadeville, AL; son, Phillip Roger (Joyce) Rudd, of Arvada, CO, daughter, Julie Diane Kilgo of Salem, AL and daughter, Mary Frances Heptinstall, of Auburn, AL, 26 grandchildren, 67 great-grandchildren, and 24 great-great-grandchildren, brothers, Julian Lee (Frances) Wood, of Huguley, AL, and Clifford Earl (Betty) Wood, of Morton, MS, sister, Mary Joyce (Jerry) Stevison, Anchorage, AK, sisters-in-law, Joyce Allen Rudd, Jerri Ratzlaff Wood, and Gladys Brewer Wood, brother-in-law, Robert L. Rudd, as well as a number of nieces and nephews who will never forget the love she brought to their lives.

Her family was her pride and joy. She was a Ridge Road Baptist Church member and a devout Christian whose unwavering faith influenced many lives. Before becoming disabled, she enjoyed working in her flower beds growing some of the most beautiful flowers ever seen.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 28, 2024 from 5:00 - 7:00pm in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home.

Funeral service will be held Monday, July 29, 2024 at 11:00am at Ridge Road Baptist Church with Pastor Stephen McClain officiating. Interment will follow at Garden Hills Cemetery.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is assisting with all arrangements.

Gayle Derben Wilkerson
1939-2024

Betty Gayle Derben Wilkerson, 84, passed away peacefully in her sleep at Arbor Lake Nursing Home in Auburn, AL on Tuesday, July 23, 2024.. She was born on August 1, 1939 in Chattanooga TN to the late Paul Madden and Minnie Mae Camp Derben.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Frank Wilkerson, her brother, William Paul Derben, and her sister, Emma Jo Derben.

She is survived by daughters Lisa Wilkerson Ellen (Tim) and Lynette Wilkerson Strickland (David), grandchildren Ragan Ellen Herdener (Chris), Spencer Ellen, Taylor Ellen Felker (Andy), Wilson Strickland (Kayla), Emma Strickland Bulso (Nick), Peter Strickland (Paige), Oliver Strickland (Summer), John David Strickland, Cecilia Strickland, Henry Strickland and Oscar Strickland, great grandchildren Mary Larson Herdener, Margaret Herdener, Augustine Bulso, Maximilian Bulso, Albert Bulso, Cyril Bulso, Salem Strickland, Jade Strickland, special sister-in-law, Gloria Derben and many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews.

Gayle worked for many years with students at Auburn University and ultimately retired from there. Gayle and Frank spent many a day at Auburn athletic events showing their loyalty, as well. She enjoyed working with the students very much, but especially cherished her time with family, cooking and loving them. She will be greatly missed by many.

Visitation will be held on August 1, 2024 (what would have been her 85th birthday) from 10:00 until 11:00 am in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home with Pastor Cade Farris officiating. Interment will follow at Garden Hills Cemetery.

The family would also like to thank the staff of Arbor Lake for their care during her residence there.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is assisting with all arrangements.

Memorial Service Ideas
You can hold your memorial service in a funeral home, church, or significant location such as their gravesite, memorial location, or one of their favorite places.

You can use the memorial service as a time to share more memories of your loved one and to gather with friends and family. Use it as a time to reflect on your loss and to connect with those you love.

Explore some creative ways to personalize a memorial service.

https://www.frederickdean.com/services/memorial-services

Planning funeral or cremation arrangements online can provide privacy and convenience for those who prefer to handle these arrangements in the comfort of their own home. Remember, time waits for no one! So seize the moment and be proactive in securing your legacy. https://www.frederickdean.com/online-planner/online-planner

Elder Care
Get easy access to resources, community programs and services.
Made available by the Alzheimer's Association and AARP
https://www.communityresourcefinder.org/

Carelike - Provider Search The Alzheimer’s Association and AARP do not endorse any of the providers listed here. The information contained in the Community Resource Finder is thought to be reliable but is not guaranteed to be accurate. It is compiled from provider descriptions of their own services as well as other public d...

Learn about scams that target older adults and what steps to take to protect yourself or a loved one.
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/safety/beware-scams-targeting-older-adults?utm_source=nia-eblast&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=healthyaging-20240129

Beware of Scams Targeting Older Adults Learn about scams that target older adults and what steps to take to protect yourself or a loved one.

Grief Support
Here are some tools available to assist you in your healing journey. Contact us to discuss other resources and find a personalized solution to support you on the road to recovery.
https://www.frederickdean.com/resources/grief-support

Grief Support | Frederick-Dean Funeral Home & Crematory Frederick-Dean Funeral Home has been serving East Alabama & West Georgia with quality funeral, burial, cremation, & memorial services for over 120 years.

Linda Gregory Sanders
7/08/1947 - 7/09/2024

Linda Gregory Sanders, affectionately known as “May May”, passed away on July 9th, 2024, in Auburn, AL at the age of 77 after a valiant 5-month battle with glioblastoma. Born on July 8, 1947, in Havana, FL, she was a devoted wife, mother, sister and grandmother who cherished her family deeply.

Linda graduated from Havana High School in 1965 and continued her education at Emory at Oxford. She dedicated many years as a teacher’s aide and loving homemaker, nurturing not only her own children but also the many students she encountered.

She was a devoted member of Ephesus Baptist Church, Villa Rica, GA. She cherished the many friendships she made as a member of the Heaven Bound Life Group. Linda found great joy in reading, walking, planting flowers, and spending time outdoors. Her back porch was her happy place where she spent many hours bird watching and reading books.

Linda is survived by her loving children: Joe Sanders and wife Kristi; Amy Odom and husband Cary; Julie White and husband John. She was a proud grandmother to Shelby (Scotty) Easter, Marlee Odom (fiancé Ethan Fisher), Laney and Aubrey Odom, Tyler, Jake, Luke and Megan White, and Madelyn and Cooper Taylor. She is also survived by her great-granddaughter, Corinne “Coco” Easter. Her sisters, Jane Worley, and Martha O’Brien will also hold her memory dear. Linda was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tom Sanders, and her parents Benjamin and Elizabeth Gregory.

Services will be held at Ephesus Baptist Church located at 8445 Ephesus Church Road, Villa Rica, GA, 30180 on Friday, July 19th, 2024, with friends and family gathering at 10:30 AM followed by the service at 11:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Ephesus Baptist Church College & Youth ministries.

How to help a Grieving Friend

Benjamin David Swiney
08/12/1942- 07/08/2024

A visitation will be held for Benjamin on Thursday, July 11, 2024 from 5:00pm- 8:00pm at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home in the Parlor.

Nancy Louise Owens
4/1/1939 - 7/6/2024

Nancy Louise Owens, beloved Mother, Grandmother, and Friend, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2024, surrounded by her family. She was born on April 1, 1939 (85) in Waverly, Alabama. Nancy was the daughter of Lonnie and Elizabeth Smith.

Nancy will be remembered for her love of fishing, gardening, and cooking.

She is preceded in death by her husband Allen O’Neal Owens, after 65 years of marriage and three brothers Alfred Smith (wife Shirley), Woodson Smith (wife Barbara Jean) and Bruce Smith (wife Martha). Nancy is survived by her son Rocky Owens (wife Karen), daughter Caron Gibson (husband Randall), Shirley Lackey (sister), and Hunter (dog of 17 years). Four grandchildren: Natalie Johnson (husband Chris), Haylie Gibson, Travis Gibson (wife Lauren), Tommy Gibson (wife Tiffany) along with several Nieces, Nephews, Brothers/Sisters In-Laws. She was blessed by four great grandchildren Owen, Julie, Kason, and Oliver.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 11:00 AM (CST) at Farmville Baptist Church 3607 AL Hwy 147 N, Auburn, AL 36830 with a fellowship gathering after the service.

Virginia’s Florist in Opelika, AL will be handling all flower arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Bethany House in Auburn, AL for the wonderful care they provided during her final days.

Seth Cooper Ray
11/30/1997 - 07/04/2024

Seth was born on November 30th, 1997 here in Opelika, Al. He left behind a loving family on July 4th, 2024 at the age of 26 years old. He graduated from Beauregard High School. He was beginning his career in gas pipelining. He was a Specialist in the Army National Guard as an Airborne 91 Bravo wheeled vehicle mechanic, Echo Company, 20th Special Forces group.

Seth is survived by his loving parents Steven and Jennifer Ray, brother Spencer Ray (Aapana Ray), sister Presley Vincent (Raley Vincent). Nieces and nephews Grayson, Elliot, Emerson, Lynley, and Ayla. Grandparents Pansy Newman, Floyd Dubose, Aranell Ray Corley (Billy Corley). He was preceded in death by his Granddaddy's Frank Ray, and Gene Newman.

Seth was loved and he will be missed by many including close and distant family and friends.

Seth was a free spirit. He was adventurous, brave, loud, fun, and unpredictable. He was also dependable and tough as could be with a tender heart. He overcame obstacles and fears. At the age of 18 he loaded up and moved to Oregon where he made lifelong friends. He loved the mountains, rivers, and anything in nature. He always looked up to his siblings and wanted a family of his own. He made friends everywhere he went. He was a great friend, and even more loving son, brother and uncle.

Visitation for Seth will be held at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home on Monday, July 8, 2024 from 5:00 until 7:00 pm in the parlor, followed by a chapel service at 7:00 pm.

At Frederick-Dean Funeral Home, we're proud to do our part in honoring our country's veterans. Our duty is to provide you and your family with professional and dignified assistance during your time of need, and we promise to support you in honoring your loved one for their dedication and selfless service.

Our veteran funeral services include anything your family needs to properly honor your loved one’s life.
https://www.frederickdean.com/services/honoring-veterans

Veteran Funeral Services | Frederick-Dean Funeral Home We're proud to do our part in honoring our country's veterans. Learn more about military honors for veterans and obtaining veteran death benefits here.

Carol Louise DeAngelo
4/17/1943 - 6/29/2024

Visitation will be Wednesday, July 10, 2024 from 4:30PM - 6:30PM at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home in the Parlor. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, July 11, 2024 at 10:00AM at Camp Hill Memorial Gardens with Brother Willie L. Ford officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the family or charity of choice.

Frederick-Dean is assisting with the arrangements.

Stephen "Steve" Colley
3/14/1956 - 7/2/2024

Stephen “Steve” Colley was born on March 14, 1956 and died July 2, 2024 in Opelika, AL. He graduated Opelika High School and made a career at Thompson Carriers.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Hazel Colley, and his father, Homer Colley as well as his godson, Christopher McMillion. He is survived by his daughter, Heather Colley (Mother: Sharon Colley), brother, Mike (Angie) Colley, nephew, Scott (Jessica) Colley, and great-nephew Cooper.

He was loved and will be missed by many, including his immediate family, friends, and extended relatives.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 6th from 11:00 am-12:45 pm at Frederick Dean Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow at 1:00 pm at Garden Hill Cemetery.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

On this Independence Day, we honor the brave souls who fought for our freedom. May we remember and cherish their sacrifices today and always. Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Independence Day.

What to Wear to a Funeral

Try to find out the dress code before you attend, so that you can be sure you’ll dress appropriately. If you aren't sure, simply try to dress in a conservative way that shows respect for the family and other mourners. For men, a suit and a conservative tie is usually a safe bet. Women should generally wear a conservative dress, skirt, or pants with a tasteful blouse.
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“A good time to start having these IMPORTANT conversations is when you have a diagnosis that leads you to believe that your life may be shortened in some way, shape or form,”
https://www.curetoday.com/view/end-of-life-care-wishes-are-evolving-conversations-for-patients-caregivers

End-of-Life Care Wishes Are Evolving Conversations for Patients, Caregivers One expert explains how patients’ wishes for their end-of-life care can change with time, making those conversations with caregivers “not a one-time, sit-down discussion.”

Staying Safe in Hot Weather

Watch for these signs of hyperthermia:
Dizziness
Muscle cramps
Swelling in your ankles and feet
Nausea and weakness
Rapid pulse
Tips to prevent hot-weather illness:
Drink liquids
Limit caffeine and alcohol
Wear light-colored, loose fitting clothes
If it's too hot, try exercising indoors
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/safety/hot-weather-safety-older-adults

CHARLES BENSON RIVES
March 11, 1950 - June 28, 2024

Charles “Charley” Benson Rives 74, of Pleasant Hill, lost his battle with cancer on Friday June 28, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family. Charley was a deacon in Pleasant Hill Baptist Church for many years. His love for his community and family was felt by all who knew him. There was never an ask that was unfulfilled, or something broken he couldn’t fix. Charley was a mechanic all his life and was called on by many to help fix whatever was wrong. He loved to hunt and fish, especially with his grandchildren. He also loved using his smoker to feed the masses for every occasion.

Mr. Rives is survived by his loving wife of 51 years Pamela S. Rives, children, Amanda (John Robert) Medley, and Ben (Tara) Rives; 6 grandchildren, Lillian Price, Sadie Rives, Landon Rives, Kaitlyn Rives, Harper Ready, Haydlee Carter; sisters and brother, Kay (Steve) Stephens, Rodney (Donna) Rives, Clare (Greg) Clemons, sister-in-law Lynn Rives; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents, William “Billy” Dunklin Rives, and Carrie Norris Rives; brother, William “Bill” D. Rives, Jr., nephew, Rodney N. Rives, Jr. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Pleasant Hill Cemetery Association.

Memorial services will be held Saturday July 6, 2024, 11:00 am at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church with Dr. David Thomas and George Wood officiating. Visitation will be held at 10:00 am prior to the memorial service.

Special thanks to all of the UAB Physicians, Montgomery Cancer Center, and Southern Care Hospice for the loving care and support he received.

Visit Our Funeral Planning Guide
When it comes to planning a funeral for the first time, or anytime really, it can seem a bit overwhelming. There are many things to keep in mind when planning the service, from the obituary all the way to what kind of flowers you want. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home, we’re here for you every step of the way. Call (334) 745-4667 or visit us today.
https://www.frederickdean.com/resources/funeral-planning-guide

Funeral Planning Guide | Frederick-Dean Funeral Home & Cr... Frederick-Dean Funeral Home has been serving East Alabama & West Georgia with quality funeral, burial, cremation, & memorial services for over 120 years.

George W. Quiggle Jr.
September 30, 1941 - June 18, 2024

George W. Quiggle Jr., beloved husband, father, and respected member of the community, passed away on June 18, 2024, at the age of 82. He was born on September 30, 1941, in Birmingham, AL, to his loving parents Mary and George Quiggle.

George dedicated his life to serving others and making a positive impact. As a co-founder of Greater Birmingham Ministries, he shared a vision to respond more effectively to people in need and build a community of peace and justice. His unwavering dedication and compassionate spirit touched the lives of countless individuals.

George's commitment to his faith led him to serve as a Parish Priest in the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama at Saint Luke's Episcopal Church in Jacksonville and Saint Michael's Episcopal Church in Millbrook. His leadership and pastoral guidance provided solace and inspiration to his congregation, fostering a strong sense of community and spiritual growth.

In his personal life, George was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Dale Quiggle. Their partnership was a model of love, kindness, and support. Together, they raised two sons, Wes (Karmine) and Marc (Leslee), who inherited their father's values of compassion and service.

George was also a cherished grandfather to Bailey Taylor(Daniel), Conner Quiggle, Isabelle Quiggle, Massey Quiggle, and great-granddaughter Mia Taylor. He adored spending time with his family, creating lasting memories filled with love and laughter.

George will be deeply missed by his sister, Caroline Grasso and her loving family. Daughter-in-laws, Karmine and Leslee. Sister-in-law Leigh Murray, her family, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of selflessness and dedication to making a difference in the lives of others will continue to inspire and guide future generations.

A memorial service honoring George's life will be held at Grace Episcopal Church in Birmingham Alabama August 3rd at 2:00PM, a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Greater Birmingham Ministries, Alabama Arise or Habitat for Humanity in honor of George's lifelong commitment to serving his community.

Rest in peace, George. Your kindness, faith, and love will forever be remembered and cherished by all whose lives you touched.