Bert Franklin Dull
Bert Franklin Dull, son of the late J.T. and Annie Dull, peacefully departed to be with His Lord on Apr. 24, 2024. Born in Winter Haven, Fla., Bert was raised in Plant City, Fla., and proudly graduated from Plant City High School, Class of 1951.
For 64 years, Bert was a devoted husband to Jolly Howell of Plant City. Together, they raised two children, Molly Ann (William Buffington) and Bert Franklin (Angela), cherished by five grandchildren (Suzanne, Beau, Kathryn, Lauren, and Robert) and six great-grandchildren (Saige, Ashley, Christian, Stevie, McKenzie, and Melodie).
Growing up on Lake Shipp in Winter Haven, Fla., Bert found joy in fishing, hunting in the Everglades, and music. Family vacations often included trips to the Smokey Mountains and visits to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN. Their shared love for NASCAR races led to memorable travels across the southeast to attend many races. A modest collection of trophies reflected his passion for golf.
Bert served in the United States Army during post-WWII Germany and France. Following his military service, he pursued a career as an Engineer with the Seaboard Airline Railroad, retiring after 45 years with CSX Railroad. While with the railroad, Bert was elected Local Chairman of the United Transportation Union, becoming an advocate, arbitrator, personal advisor and friend to many. He worked ardently with state and federal legislators to create safer workplace environments and better benefits for rail workers, something he was passionate about. He also served as Associate General Chairman of Florida UTU. Bert was a member of Bethany Baptist Church and was active in the Olin S. Wright Masonic Lodge, the Order of Eastern Star serving as a Worthy Patron, as Grand Representative of Wyoming in Florida, and a 32° member of the Scottish Rite.
Bert lived a life marked by adventure, hard work, a share of good luck, and the support of loved ones. As he peacefully passed, he found solace in reuniting with his beloved wife and Loving Savior on the other side. Bert’s legacy of dedication and service will forever be remembered. May he rest in eternal peace with His Lord.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, May 4 at 3 p.m. at Hopewell Funeral Home, 6005 South County Road 39, Plant City, FL, where the family will receive friends at 2 p.m. Interment at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
Jesse “Leon” Pelham
Jesse “Leon” Pelham, 94, of Lakeland, Fla., born on Sept. 25, 1929, in Ashford, Alabama, entered into eternal rest on Apr. 20, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com
Sandra “Sandy” M. Venable
Sandra “Sandy” M. Venable, 79, of Plant City, Fla., born on Dec. 11, 1944, entered into eternal rest on Apr. 18, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
Grover “Buddy” C. Sewell
Grover “Buddy” C. Sewell, born in Valrico, Fla., on Jan. 15, 1935, age 89 years old, life long resident of Valrico, Fla., entered into eternal rest Apr. 28, 2024. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
Austin Jerry Snow Sr
Austin Jerry Snow Sr., a cherished pillar of the Plant City community and a beacon of unwavering dedication, passed away peacefully on Apr. 26, 2024, in Temple Terrace, Fla., at the age of 92.
A graveside service will be held May 3, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Willow Oak Cemetery, 3390 Willow Oak Road Mulberry, Florida 33860. Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
Gerard Joseph Diguer
Gerard Joseph Diguer, known affectionately as Gerry to his friends and family, passed away on Apr. 21, 2024, in Plant City, Fla., at the age of 86. Born on August 15, 1937, in Ottawa, Canada.
Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
Claudia Mae Pless
Claudia Mae Pless, 91, of Plant City, Fla., passed away on Apr. 24, 2024. Claudia was born on Oct. 17, 1932. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.WellsMemorial.com for the Pless family.
