Jean Swinney Brady
Jean Swinney Brady, 82, of Plant City and Lakeland, Fla., entered into eternal rest on Mar. 23, 2025. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
Maurice L. Huskins
Maurice L. Huskins, 58, of Plant City, Fla., born on Feb. 3, 1967, in Miami, Fla., entered into eternal rest on Mar. 23, 2025 in Lakeland. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
Barbara G. Wood
Barbara G. Wood, 71, of Riverview, Fla., born on Aug. 9, 1953, in Plant City, Fla., entered into eternal rest on Mar. 25, 2025. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
Erika “Brooke” Prator
Erika “Brooke” Prator, 40, of Lithia, Fla., born on Oct. 17, 1984, in Tampa, Fla., entered into eternal rest on Mar. 24, 2025. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
Amadeo Daniel Modesto
Amadeo Daniel Modesto, 57, of Plant City, Fla., born on Sept. 12, 1967, in Tlalchapa, Guerrero, Mexico, entered into eternal rest on Mar. 24, 2025. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
Wesley N. Christie
Wesley N. Christie, Sr., 84, of Plant City, Fla., born on Oct. 11, 1940, in Lacoochee, Fla., entered into eternal rest on Mar. 29, 2025. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
William “Billy” Weaver Herold III
William “Billy” Weaver Herold III passed peacefully in his sleep surrounded by his loving family on Mar. 26, 2025, after a short fight with Lymphoma.
Billy was born in Hartford, CT on Dec. 27, 1955, to William ‘Bill’ & Mary Herold, he was one of five children. When he was 3 years old his family moved to Lakeland, Fla. and then in 1965 they settled in Plant City, Fla., where he lived for almost 60 years. He was a graduate of PCHS Class of 1973. Starting in high school, Billy went to work to earn his own money and buy his own car. Cars became his passion. Before he jumped into the car business, he worked at the Holiday Inn working his way up to Maître D’. Customers could count on him to find them a table even when the restaurant was full.
For over 49 years, Billy enjoyed a long and successful career in the automobile industry, starting at Wilson Davis Ford as a car salesman. He then went to Bell Chevrolet and moved up from a salesman to GM. He eventually opened his own business, Billy Herold’s Auto Sales, and expanded that into 4 locations. Billy was recognized by the Chamber of Commerce as Small Business Owner of the Year.
Billy was always active in his community and held many leadership roles. He became a member of Kiwanis. Billy was active in the Rotary Club, where he was President, Lt. Governor, and a Paul Harris Fellow. He emceed Dancing With The Locals and various auctions, including the Wild Game Cookout for 12 years. He was a member of the Elks Lodge for 42 years.
He was a giver and led the Rotary Christmas for an Angel program which included over 2,000 gifts per year for underprivileged children and meeting the Christmas wishes of the special needs classes at Marshall Middle School.
Family was very important to Billy. He is survived by his wife, Sherri Taylor Herold; sons, Tony Mike Herold (Lauren), Nicholas Owens Herold (Andrea); stepdaughter, Brittani Taylor (Billy); stepson, Joey Taylor (Lisa); and 6 grandchildren, Braxton William Herold, Jayden Cruz, Avery Cruz, Mia Herold, Alli Jo Taylor & Colton Taylor; sister, Toni Herold Yamin (Bert); brother, Arthur Harry Herold (Nina); sister, Betty Herold Peck; mother-in-law, Joanne Grace; brother-in-law, Norman Grace (Cindy), and sister-in-law, Terri Hughes (Rick); and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Susan Elizabeth Herold.
A private family graveside service will be held in early April. A public celebration of life will be held at Eastside Baptist Church of Plant City on Saturday, Apr. 12, 2025. Visitation will be from 2:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. with the service beginning at 4:00 P.M.
In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations be made to:
Christmas for an Angel – Rotary Club of Plant City, PO BOX 5601, Plant City, FL 33563. Memo: Christmas for an Angel, please make check payable to Rotary Club of Plant City. Eastside Baptist Church – www.eastsidebcpc.org. For online giving under Building Repair, memo: in Memory of Billy Herold. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
Robert Louis Ziegler II
Robert Louis Ziegler II passed away peacefully on Mar. 30, 2025, in Lakeland, Fla., on his 52nd birthday. Friends and family will be received on Apr. 4, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd Plant City, FL 33563. A memorial service will follow at 7:00 PM. Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
Teresa Louise Wood
Teresa Louise Wood, affectionately known as Pearl to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on Mar. 26, 2025, at the age of 62 in her hometown of Plant City, Fla. Born on Feb. 7, 1963, in the same close-knit community. Services will be held privately by the family. Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
Alice June Davis Cowart
Alice June Davis Cowart, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully on Mar. 6, 2025, at the age of 73, in Plant City, Fla. Alice’s life was a testament to the power of warmth and generosity that she extended to everyone she met. Services are being held privately by the family. Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
Jonathan Andres Cortez
Jonathan Andres Cortez, a cherished son, brother, and friend, passed away on Mar. 28, 2025, in Tampa, Fla., at the age of 18. Born on July 28, 2006, in Brandon, Fla.
A Mass will be held on Thursday, Apr. 3, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Clement Catholic Church. Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
EvaNett “EvaNell” Griffin
EvaNett “EvaNell” Griffin, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully on Mar. 29, 2025, in Lakeland, Fla. at the age of 79. A funeral service will be on Apr. 9, 2025, at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church Dover, 3223 Gallagher Road. Dover, FL. 33527. Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
Nancy Burns
Nancy Burns, 1931-2025, beloved wife, mother, and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully this past weekend at the age of 93. Born in Newton, Massachusetts, Nancy lived a life full of love, faith, and dedication to those around her.
On June 30, 1950, she married the love of her life, Leo Burns, and together they built a lifetime of beautiful memories. In 1981, they relocated to Florida, where Nancy continued to touch the lives of those around her with her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering spirit.
Nancy was mother to her two daughters, Donna Obuchowski and Karen Burns. She took great pride in her family and found immense joy in their accomplishments and happiness. Nancy had one granddaughter and two beautiful great-grandchildren.
A faithful member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Nancy’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She found joy in her community, her friendships, and the simple moments that made life meaningful.
Nancy will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of love and devotion will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind. A service in her honor was held at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Plant City, where friends and family gathered to celebrate her remarkable life.
May she rest in peace, reunited with those who have gone before her.
Dannel “Dan” Cantu
In Loving Memory of Dannel “Dan” Cantu
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Dannel “Dan” Cantu on Thursday, Mar. 20, 2025. Born Sept. 26, 1956, in Rosedale, Mississippi.
He may not have been the loudest person in the room, but his presence was always felt. He showed up for the people he loved—not with grand gestures, but with quiet consistency, unwavering loyalty, and a heart that was always willing to help however he could.
Above all, family was everything to Dan, and no bond was stronger than the one he shared with his brother, Fred. More than just siblings, they were lifelong brothers in every sense, always looking out for each other and sharing in life’s ups and downs. Whether watching football, reminiscing, or simply enjoying each other’s company, their connection was one of true brotherhood.
Dan had a deep love for football and was a familiar figure on the sidelines, never seeking attention but always there. His nieces and nephews knew they could count on him, and his friends’ children found in him the same quiet support and steady presence. Around those he was comfortable with, his conversations were full of warmth, humor, and sincerity, making his absence even more deeply felt.
Dannel “Dan” Cantu leaves behind his devoted brother, Fred, as well as brothers and sisters: Louis (Helen) Cantu, Annie Lopez, Lottie (Jose) Vela, Gloria (George) Marquez, Richard (Laura) Cantu, Paul (Melissa)Cantu, Donna Cantu, Rabul (Miranda) Cantu and Raquel (David) Morrill; many nieces and nephews, along with his best friend Matt Hageman and family. While we grieve his passing, we take comfort in knowing he is now reunited with his parents Gilberto and Clara Cantu, brothers Gilbert Cantu Junior, John Cantu, David Cantu and sister Estelita Alonso, finding peace in their embrace once more.
Please keep our family, especially Fred, in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Ronald “Ron” Owen Lanier
Ronald “Ron” Owen Lanier, 62, of Lithia, Fla., born in Kissimmee, Fla., on Aug. 14, 1962, entered into eternal rest on Mar. 29, 2025.
Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral.com.
Jaylon Daniel Allen Weaver
Jaylon Daniel Allen Weaver, age 4, of Lithia, Fla., passed away and has joined his father, Aaron Walter Daniel Weaver Sr. late Monday, Mar. 24, 2025.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy can be shared at WWW.Wellsmemorial.com for the Weaver family.
Bobby Moore
Bobby Moore, age 78, of Plant City, Fla., passed away on Thursday, Mar. 27, 2025.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy can be shared at WWW.Wellsmemorial.com for the Moore family.
Nila Glee McPhee
Nila Glee McPhee, 88, of Plant City, Fla., entered into rest on Mar. 24, 2025.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy can be shared at WWW.Wellsmemorial.com for the McPhee family.
Larbie Phillips
Larbie Phillips, age 79 passed away on Friday, Mar. 28, 2025.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy can be shared at WWW.Wellsmemorial.com for the Phillips family.
