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Astor Obituaries

Astor Obituaries

Understanding Astor Funeral Home

Located in the heart of Astor, Florida, Astor Funeral Home stands as a solemn facility dedicated to providing respectful and compassionate services to families during their times of loss. This funeral home has been a fixture in the community, serving the residents of Astor and surrounding areas with utmost care and sensitivity. Nestled at 24540 SR 40, it is easily accessible and offers a serene environment suitable for saying final goodbyes.

Services Offered by Astor Funeral Home

Astor Funeral Home prides itself on offering a wide range of services to cater to the diverse needs of the community it serves. The dedicated staff understands that each family is unique and therefore requires personalized services. From traditional funerals, memorial services, and graveside ceremonies to more contemporary celebrations of life, the funeral home is equipped to accommodate any type of service that families prefer. Additionally, they provide a variety of cremation options, including direct cremation and cremation with memorial services.

Astor

Address: 24540 SR 40, Astor, FL, 32102
Phone Number: 352-759-2244
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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Ronald Mitchell Saul - November 12, 1944 - December 04, 2021

Departed: 12/04/2021 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Ronald "Catfish" Saul of Astor Florida died unexpectedly December 4, 2021 at the age of 77.
Born November 12, 1944 in Charlotte, N.C. to Hubert and Margaret (List) Saul. Services will be held Saturday December 11, 2021 at First Baptist Church of Astor 24731 Ann Street, Astor, FL Visitation from 10:00am–11:00am Service 11:00am. There will be a reception at the church Life Center following interment Astor-Astor Park Cemetery.
Ronald served with the U.S. Army 1963 - 1969. He was a member of the VFW and American Legion. He was a member of Union Local 803 Orlando and worked as a plumber pipefitter for 37 years. Was a part time commercial fisherman in Astor on the St Johns River for many years.
He loved his family and enjoyed many hobbies which included metal detecting, coin collecting, searching for antique items, and foremost but not least restoring antique tractors.
Preceded in death by: Parents Hubert and Margaret Saul, brother Larry Saul.
Survivors include: Wife Jacqueline, Astor, FL, sister Nancy Jones, Astor, FL, brother Hubert (Arlene) Saul Jr. Pierson, FL Daughter Janell (Robert) Scott, Deland, FL Daughter Corry DellaValle Apopka, FL Son Ronald Saul Jr., Utah Daughter Marjorie (John) Hosford, TN Son Shane Rutherford Pt Orange FL Daughter Kathryn (David) Utterback S.C. Sixteen grandchildren, five great grandchildren, as well as multiple nieces and nephews.
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John Will Whitaker - August 02, 1927 - September 09, 2021

Departed: 09/09/2021 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: John Will (Jay) Whitaker 94, passed away peacefully September 9, 2021. Jay was born August 2, 1927. He married his sweetheart, Thelma Ockerman Whitaker, February 25, 1951. He was a decorated sharpshooter, Air Force Veteran of World War II, serving in the Pacific. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, brother and friend. He was a man of many talents, including roller skating, square dancing, guitar playing and wood working. He was an avid bass fisherman, water skier and billiard player. His career was in the automotive field. He loved Jesus, his church and Sunday School Class. He was a proud member of the First Baptist Church of Astor, Florida.
Jay was preceded in death by his parents, Ezra Shirley Whitaker and Mildred (Minnie) Frances Thurman Whitaker. Brothers, Everet Whitaker and Ira Whitaker. Sisters, Arilia, Mary and Shirley.
Survivors include: Beloved wife of 70 years, Thelma Faye Ockerman Whitaker, Daughter Toni Lynn Whitaker (Michael) Prater, Son John Timothy (Nancy) Whitaker. Grandchildren, John, Jenny, Anthony and Daniel. Nine great grandchildren. Many nieces and nephews who will miss their Uncle Jay. He was a friend to everyone who knew him and will be missed by all. A celebration of JW’s Life will be held at a later date. Beyers Funeral Home of Astor, FL is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.beyersfuneralhome.com
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George Joseph Collins - October 20, 1940 - September 01, 2021

Departed: 09/01/2021 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: George Collins 80, of Astor, FL, passed away Wednesday, September 1, 2021. He was born in Uniontown, KY, the son of Ruth and Basil Collins. George proudly and honorably served in the United States Navy where he was an aircraft engine mechanic. After his service he pursued a career as an electrician and power company lineman. George enjoyed fishing and relaxing along the St. Johns River and especially loved cruising the Astor area in his golf cart visiting friends and neighbors. He and his wife, Ginger, faithfully attended the Astor Forest Property Owners Association (AFPOA) monthly pancake breakfasts and were usually the first in line!
In addition to his late parents, he was predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Ginger Collins, his sister Betty, and his brother Basil. George was a very loving uncle and is survived by several nieces and nephews.
A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, September 10, 2021, at 10:00 AM at San Jose Catholic Mission, 165 Emporia Road, Pierson, FL with Father Alfredo Ortiz officiating. A viewing will be held from 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM prior to the service. Interment to follow at the Astor Park Cemetery.
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Jonathan Clifford Robinson - May 12, 1980 - August 08, 2021

Departed: 08/08/2021 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Jonathan Clifford Robinson, 41 of Paisley, FL, passed away on August 8, 2021, in DeLand, FL. He was a cook in the restaurant industry and a machine operator II for Sparton Electronics.
He is survived by his wife: Amanda Genereux; daughter: Harper Robinson and son: Grayson Genereux; brother: Paul Prevatt and sister: Donna Robinson; father: Donald Lee Robinson. He is preceded in death by his brother Henry Lee Robinson.
A gathering of friends will be held on Saturday, August 21, 2021 from 2:00-4:00 PM at the Beyers Funeral Home Chapel in Umatilla.
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Patricia T Wood - October 10, 1942 - August 05, 2021

Departed: 08/05/2021 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Patricia T. Wood, 78 of Astor, FL, passed away on August 5, 2021 in Deland, FL. She was born in LaCrosse, FL on Oct. 10, 1942 to parents Troy Thomas and Ethel Andrews. She worked in food services for Volusia Food Services.
She is survived by her loving husband: Loyd Wood; sons: Jeff (Carrie) Wood and Todd (Lucia) Wood; daughter: Carie (Kevin) Haskell; 6 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren and niece Terre (Bobby) Wester; brother: Donald (Alice) Thomas and sister: Joan Olher.
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Virginia Alice Collins - October 31, 1938 - August 01, 2021

Departed: 08/01/2021 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Virginia Alice “Ginger” Collins, 82 of Astor, FL, passed on August 1, 2021. She was born in Monticello, FL to her father: Hershel Roberts and mother: Alice Elizabeth Daniels. Ginger was a member of San Jose Mission in Barberville, FL. She was a bank teller in the banking industry.
She is survived by her husband: George Collins of 55 years and half-brother: Charles Roberts.
A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, August 7, 2021 at Beyers Funeral Home Chapel in Astor, FL at 10:00 AM with Father Alfredo Ortiz officiating. A viewing will be held from 9-10 AM prior to the service. Interment to follow at Astor Park Cemetery.
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Robert Stanley Henderson - April 12, 1944 - July 22, 2021

Departed: 07/22/2021 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: It is with great sadness that the family of Robert “Bob” Stanley Henderson announces his unexpected passing on July 22nd, 2021 at his home in Astor, Florida, at the age of 77 years. Bob was born to Gerald and Ethel Henderson in Guelph, Ontario on April 12th, 1944. At the age of 8, Gerald and Ethel emigrated from Canada with Bob, his sister Donna, and his brother David, in tow, settling in the Orlando, Florida area. He graduated from Ocoee High School in 1962.
Curious and intelligent, Bob was a polymath, and he pursued many careers throughout his life. Shortly after graduating high school, he served in the United States Air Force as an airman first class, receiving the National Defense Service Medal. After leaving the Air Force, Bob obtained an associate’s degree from Valencia College, and he worked at Disney in Orlando for several years afterwards as an audio and animatronics technician.
Bob also worked as a contractor for the United States Navy, refueling nuclear submarines in Connecticut. After returning to Florida, he served as the Vice President of Engineering at Magnetix Disc Corp., before co-founding his own small business, Horizon Duplication, which he co-owned and operated before retiring as president.
Much like his professional career, Bob’s interests and hobbies were diverse. From flying airplanes to building his own airplane, from SCUBA diving to machining, Bob was adventurous, talented, and knowledgeable. Bob enjoyed traveling, the outdoors, and camping. He was quick-witted and possessed a mischievous and peculiar sense of humor that was loved by all who knew him.
Bob was a devout Christian, caring father, devoted husband, and staunch patriot. His warm presence, kindness, encyclopedic knowledge, and generous heart will be sorely missed. Bob was predeceased by his parents and his brother, John "Ted" Henderson. He is survived by his loving wife, Cynthia Henderson, and his children Valerie, Robert, Christopher, and Michelle as well as their families.
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Robert Edward Fulks - October 09, 1933 - March 03, 2021

Departed: 03/03/2021 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Robert Edward Fulks (Bob), 87, of Astor, Florida passed away on March 3, 2021. He was born October 9, 1933 in Kingsford, Michigan. Bob served in the United States Army, was a lifelong commercial fisherman/crabber, and later became a Bridge tender in Astor.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years: Thelma Fulks; daughter: Mary Pollitt; sons: Rick (Denise) Colflesh, John Colflesh; daughter in law: Faye Branham; sisters: Diane Jolly, Debbie Gursky, Karen Kovars; 12 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sons: James Colflesh, and Robert Colflesh.
A visitation for Mr. Fulks will be held Friday, March 12, 2021 from 5pm to 7pm at the First Baptist Church of Pierson. Services will be held Saturday, March 13, 2021, 11am at the First Baptist Church of Pierson with Pastor Jerry Hunter officiating; interment to follow at Astor Park Cemetery.
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Donald Roy Tienhaara - April 16, 1944 - February 21, 2021

Departed: 02/21/2021 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Donald Roy Tienhaara, 76, passed away on February 21, 2021. For the last 10 years, he had been a resident of the Emory L. Bennett Memorial Veterans nursing home in Daytona Beach, Florida. Prior to that, he spent the last 73 years as a Florida resident. He was born April 16, 1944 in Chicago, Illinois. Donald was a United States Air Force Vietnam Veteran.
He is survived by his sister: Judy (Robert “Wally”) Wallace, Carol (Don) Gilbert; and several nieces and nephews.
There will be a graveside service held March 1, 2021, 10am at the Astor Park Cemetery with Pastor Brooks Braswell officiating.
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Harry Eugene Middleton - January 29, 1934 - February 09, 2021

Departed: 02/09/2021 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Harry Eugene “Gene” Middleton, 87, of Astor, Florida passed away on February 9, 2021. He was born January 29, 1934 in Miami, Florida. Harry served in the United States Navy and was a member of New Life Baptist Church.
He is survived by his wife: Sally Middleton; sons: Dean Middleton, Ron Shaw, Ray (Amanda) Shaw, Charles (Jackie) Taylor; daughter: Michelle (Randy) Hagenbuch; sister: Joyce Foster; 7 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his son: Darryl Middleton; daughter: Natalie Middleton; parents: Cecilia & Arthur Middleton; and brother: Bayton Middleton.
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Florence Evelyn Thibodeau - December 23, 1956 - January 27, 2021

Departed: 01/27/2021 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Florence Evelyn Thibodeau, 65, of Astor, Florida passed away on January 27, 2021. She was born December 23, 1956 in Stewartstown, New Hampshire to Evelyn and Milton Newton. Florence moved to Astor in 1977 and worked with Joe Branch in Ferneries for 14 years.
She is survived by her children: Frankie Thibodeau, Angela Hughgan, Kenneth Thibodeau, Racheal; brothers: Tommy Newton, Lawrence Newton; and 8 grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by daughter: Joelene Thibodeau; and brother: John Newton.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 27, 2021, 11am at Beyers Funeral Home in Astor, Florida with inurnment to follow at Astor Park Cemetery.
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Hilma D. George - August 24, 1927 - October 22, 2020

Departed: 10/22/2020 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Hilma D. George (93) of Astor, FL passed away quietly at the Halifax Hospice House, Orange City, FL October 22, 2020. She was born August 24, 1927 in Astor, FL.
Hilma is survived by her children, Wanda Pettigrew of Altoona, FL, Paul George (Linnie) of Pierson, FL and Sheryl Smith (Steve) of Seville, FL. She was also blessed with 12 grandchildren and many great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Helena Pederson, Kathleen “Bootsie” Darden, Florence “Flossie” Vaughn and Lou Ellen Hagstrom. She was preceded in death by her husband Oral George, her children, Oral “Butch” George Jr, Linda Jones and Randy George, as well as her granddaughter, Heather and brothers Tom Dillard, Sherrill Dillard Jr and Johnnie Dillard.
Hilma was a strong, hardworking homemaker who loved caring for others. It was her hobby to take care of people on a daily basis. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Astor, The VFW Auxiliary of Pierson, FL and also volunteered her time for the Astor Community Association and the Astor Historical Society. Hilma never met a thrift store or yard sale that she didn’t like. She was skilled shopaholic. She has left beautiful memories and will be greatly missed.
There will be a visitation and funeral service at Beyers Funeral Home in Astor on Monday, October 26. The visitation time will be from 12:00-1:00 pm followed by the service at 1:00 pm. Kevin Vaughn will be officiating. Burial will follow at Astor Park Cemetery.
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Sadie Lois Briggs - December 31, 1922 - October 13, 2020

Departed: 10/13/2020 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Sadie Lois Briggs (Lois), 97, of Astor Florida passed away on October 13, 2020. She was born December 31, 1922, in Astor, Florida. She lived there for the first 18 years of her life, attending schools in Astor and Barberville then graduating from Umatilla High School in 1939.
She moved to Jacksonville in 1940, finding a job at the World Bar-B-Que. She met her future husband, James Norman Briggs (Chick) who was cooking there, and they were married in early 1941. They remained married for 63 years, until Chick passed in 2004. They raised three sons there.
After raising her family, Lois became an office manager for United Insurance for 19 years, and joined Chick in retirement in 1987. Two years later, they moved to Astor, where they both lived for the remainder of their lives.
She is survived by two sons, Mike Briggs and Jack Briggs; one sister, Evelyn Black, brothers Ray Lucas and Gerald Lucas; four grandchildren, Susan Briggs, Lauren Lawler, Richard Briggs and Cathy Briggs; five great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. She is preceded in death by: husband, James Norman Briggs; son, James Robert Briggs; sister, Willie Mae Shields; brothers Leroy Lucas, Curtis Lucas, Ralph Lucas, and Edgar Lucas, and a grandchild Tracie Lee Briggs.
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Arlington David Manor - November 02, 1925 - September 04, 2020

Departed: 09/04/2020 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Arlington David Manor (A.D.), 94, of Astor, FL passed away on Friday September 4, 2020. He was born in GA, lived most of his adult life in Orlando, FL and then moved to Astor, FL in 2002. He served in WWII as a Naval Seabee in the Pacific Ocean, attended Orlando Junior College and retired from Modern Welding in Orlando, FL.
A.D. was a member of the First Baptist Church of Astor and prior to that he was a Deacon at Woodhaven Baptist Church of Orlando. He was happily married for 72 years to Mary Elizabeth Manor until she passed in 2018; he was very proud of the life he had built and the legacy that he could pass on to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He is survived by his 3 grandchildren; Dania Lee (Chris Lee) of Winter Garden, FL, Stephanie Chew (Jake Chew) of Annapolis, MD., Paula Hodge (Matthew Hodge) of Winter Garden, FL. and 7 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife; Mary Elizabeth Manor and of his son; David Allen Manor.
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Joseph P Franzwa - March 17, 1935 - September 03, 2020

Departed: 09/03/2020 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Joseph P. Franzwa Jr., 85, of Astor, Florida passed away peacefully at home, on September 3, 2020. He was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on March 17, 1935. For almost 30 years, he was the founder and operator of Franzwa’s RV & Marine located in Millville, NJ. Joseph was also a member of the Masonic Lodge (P.M. of Volusia Lodge #77).
Joseph was a loving husband and father, survived by his wife of 66 years: Louise Franzwa (P.W.M. of Barberville Chapter 57 OES); daughters: Mary Ryan, LouAnn Franzwa Yakomin; son: Joseph Franzwa II and four grandchildren: Christopher, Justin, Lisa, and Michael.
Arrangements entrusted to Beyers Funeral Home of Astor, Florida.
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Michael Wayne Dickson - September 17, 1963 - July 26, 2020

Departed: 07/26/2020 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Michael Wayne Dickson, 56, of Astor, FL passed away on July 26, 2020. He was born September 17, 1963 in Deland, FL. Michael was a carpenter.
He is survived by wife, Caroline Bystrzycki; mother, Alice Miller of Astor, FL; sister, Sandy Darden of Astor, FL; and his nephew, Steven Smith of Deland, FL.
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Percy Poole - November 27, 1941 - July 19, 2020

Departed: 07/19/2020 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Percy Poole, 78, of Astor, FL passed away Sunday, July 19 after a long fight with dementia. He was born November 27, 1941 in Clayton, NC. He was the son of Garland and Nellie (Hill) Poole. Everywhere he went, someone knew him. He ran his own business; PEP Electric in Tavares, FL until his retirement.
He belonged to many organizations, Moose Lodge 874, Amvets1992, Masons, Shriners, and at one time he would lead “Gus” the camel in local parades. He enjoyed fishing, boating, and riding motorcycles. He loved music, played the spoons, and sang karaoke. Percy especially loved hanging out with friends while drinking beer.
He leaves behind his friend and soulmate, Lilla Cisch, whom he fondly called his other half. We want to thank hospice and his many friends who helped and supported him through this darker time.
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John William Hutchinson - May 11, 1923 - June 17, 2020

Departed: 06/17/2020 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: John William Hutchinson, 97, of DeLand, Florida, passed peacefully in his sleep on June 17, 2020 from COVID-19. He had deep beliefs complemented by a light heart and was much loved by all who knew him.
Born in Detroit, MI, John moved to Hollywood, FL in 1946, and then to Astor, FL in 1988. He was a born-again Christian and a World War II Marine Corps veteran. He was a carpenter and glazier, an avid bass and snook fisherman, a chess player, a golfer, a Sunday School teacher, and Director of the Astor-Astor Park Cemetery.
He was predeceased by the love of his life, Martha Susan Hutchinson. Survivors include his sister, Edna May Merritt; his son, John Wesley Hutchinson (wife, Christine Artley Hutchinson); grandchildren Elizabeth Brooke Hutchinson (husband, Benjamin Rock) and John Benjamin Hutchinson (partner, Sarah Dubrow), 2 great-grandchildren (John Alden Rock and Haylin Savannah Rock), and 7 nieces and nephews (Debbie Oakes, Eileen Yost, Heather Mosely, Jamie Brown, Jo Ann Brady, John Brady, and Karen Hatten).
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Sarah Lee Cook - March 17, 1947 - June 05, 2020

Departed: 06/05/2020 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Sarah Cook, 73, of Astor, FL passed away on June 5, 2020. She was born March 17, 1947 in Jackson County, IN.
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Retha Mae Grubb - April 25, 1945 - May 22, 2020

Departed: 05/22/2020 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Retha Mae Grubb “Bugs”, 75, of Astor passed away on May 22, 2020. She was born April 25, 1945 in Eustis, FL.
She is survived by daughters: Theresa (Andre) Griesinger; Rhonda Bourdon; Stella (Monty) Wiley; James (Donna) Wiley; sisters: Betty Brown; Genell Cornet; Mary Rae Francis; twelve grandchildren, and twenty four great-grandchildren.
She is preceded by her husband Dean Grubb and son Steven Ray Wiley, Sr.
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Edward Labonte - November 07, 1960 - May 22, 2020

Departed: 05/22/2020 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Edward Labonte, 59 of Astor passed away on May 22, 2020. He was born November 11, 1960.
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Robert Coulter - April 15, 1945 - April 26, 2020

Departed: 04/26/2020 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Robert Coulter, 75, of Astor, FL passed away on April 26, 2020. He was a Firefighter Lieutenant for 30 years, a Florida State Public Trustee, treasurer for the firefighters union, fellow treasurer of the Moose Lodge, and a member of the Masonic Blue Lodge.
Robert enjoyed air boating, hunting in Missouri, and deep sea fishing. He was the type of man who helped everyone, didn’t say no to anyone, and was very loyal.
He is survived by his wife Sandra of 55 years, daughters: Cindy (Michael) Damas of Melbourne, Nancy (John) Adams of Palm Bay, Kristen (Scott) Adam of Astor, Cheryl (Kevin) Vittale of North Carolina, eight grandchildren, and six great grandchildren. He is preceded by his parents, two brothers, and two sisters.
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Richard Peterson - October 16, 1939 - February 11, 2020

Departed: 02/11/2020 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Richard “Oliver” Peterson, 80 of Astor, FL passed away peacefully February 11, 2020 with his family by his side.
Oliver was born October 16, 1939 in Pierson, FL to George and May Peterson. He could accomplish anything he set his mind to. He worked various jobs in his younger years until he found his true passion in Harness Horses. After many years working as a groom for a few prominent stable, he started working as a leather/harness repairman. He and his wife Cheryl went on to start and prosper in their own business (Peterson’s Harness Shop) for 34 years, along with their 3 children, the harness racing seasons in Vernon, NY.
Oliver loved spending time with his harness racing family, his dirt racing family and his golf course family. His interests included NASCAR, antique cars and trucks, cooking outside on his grills and spending time with family and friends. In the winter months while he was home, he and his wife Cheryl spent weekends going to car shows and flea markets with his sister Arlene and brother-in-law Huey. He enjoyed his daily visits and picking on his older brother Floyd.
He is survived by his wife Cheryl of 58 years. Two sons: Rick Peterson (Lorie Kerr), George (Becky) Peterson; Daughter: Roxann (Tom) Cullen; Grandchildren: Danielle Dubberly, Chad Peterson, Janette Flint, Greg Palmer, Nick Palmer, Kristin Peterson, TJ Meacham (Aiyana) great granddaughter; 12 Great Grandchildren and 4 great –great grandchildren.
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William Clark - July 18, 1946 - October 22, 2019

Departed: 10/22/2019 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: William “Bill” Clark, 73, of Astor, FL passed away on Tuesday, October 22, 2019. He was born in Mt. Holly, New Jersey. He worked in the air conditioning business most of his life and for the past 15 years owned a fence company in Leesburg with his wife and son. He enjoyed stock car racing, fishing and spending time with his family and friends. He was a past member of the Astor Kiwanis Club and was of the Baptist faith.
He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years: Linda; his son: Kevin (Leeona) Clark; sister: Brenda Breeding; brother: John (Joy) Clark; sisters: Marijane (Eric) Syfert, Pat (Bob) Harmon, and Cindy (Rusty) Berger; brother: Mike (Sandy) Clark; and numerous nieces and nephews.
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Anna Maniscalco - February 16, 1929 - June 18, 2019

Departed: 06/18/2019 (Astor)
Obituary Preview: Anna Mae Maniscalco, 90, of Astor, FL was born February 16, 1929 in Winchester, IN and passed away June 18, 2019. She was a homemaker and moved to Astor in 1993 where she enjoyed Bingo and Day Casino cruises.
A beloved wife, mother and grandmother: she is survived by her daughter Jane and husband David Thomas; daughter in law Debbie Lasley; grandson Brandon Lasley; brother Alvin “Bud” and wife Beverly Gray; and sister Louise Crawford. She was preceded in death by her first husband Homer Lovell in 1975, second husband Jim Maniscalco in 2019; daughter Janet Lovell, son Mike Lasley; and her parents Nora and Alva Gray.
A Graveside Service will be held on Wednesday June 26, 2019 beginning at 10 AM at Glen Haven Memorial Park in Winter Park, FL with Reverend Bob Whitworth officiating.
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Pre-Planning Options

Understanding the benefits of preparation, Astor Funeral Home encourages individuals to consider pre-planning their funeral arrangements. Pre-planning is a responsible and caring act that can relieve loved ones of the burden of making decisions during an emotionally challenging time. The funeral home's staff offers guidance through the pre-planning process, ensuring that one's final wishes are documented and respected.

Facilities and Comfort

The Astor Funeral Home is designed to offer a tranquil and accommodating setting for families during visitations, services, and other funeral-related events. The facilities boast well-appointed visitation rooms, a chapel for services of various sizes, and a reception area for guests to gather and offer support to each other. The interior is tastefully decorated to provide a comforting atmosphere while paying respect to the gravity of the occasion.

Supportive Staff and Services

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At the core of Astor Funeral Home is a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to providing support and guidance to the bereaved. They understand that coping with the death of a loved one is a significant challenge, and thus they offer services beyond the funeral itself. Grief support resources are made available to help families and individuals navigate their healing journey. Moreover, the staff assists in handling necessary paperwork and coordination with cemeteries, ensuring a smooth process for all involved.

Personalized Tributes and Memorials

Recognizing the individuality of each life lived, Astor Funeral Home specializes in crafting personalized tributes and memorials. The staff works closely with families to incorporate meaningful elements into the service, whether through personalized music selections, photo displays, or special readings. They strive to honor the unique story of each person in a way that resonates with loved ones and friends.

Community Engagement

Beyond providing funeral services, Astor Funeral Home is an integral part of the Astor community. It participates in local events and supports charities, demonstrating a commitment to the well-being of the area it serves. The funeral home often hosts workshops and seminars on topics related to grief, end-of-life planning, and the importance of commemoration, thereby educating and empowering the community.

Transparent Pricing and Affordable Options

Understanding the financial component of funeral services, Astor Funeral Home maintains transparent pricing and offers a range of affordable options. Families are presented with clear information regarding costs, and the staff is dedicated to helping identify services that meet both wishes and budget constraints. The commitment to financial transparency is an integral part of their vow to serve families with integrity and honesty.

In summary, Astor Funeral Home provides a vital service to the Astor community, enveloping those in mourning with care, professionalism, and understanding. The entire ethos of the funeral home is to offer a haven of peace and respect for the deceased and their families. Their aim is not simply to plan a funeral but to craft a memorable and fitting farewell that honors a life well-lived. In doing so, Astor Funeral Home continues to be a pillar of support in the community, upholding traditions of empathy and excellence in their service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice of a person's death, often published in a newspaper or online platform. It typically includes a brief summary of the deceased's life, information about the surviving family members, details about funeral services, and may also include a personal message or reflection on the life of the individual who passed away.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve several important functions. They notify the community of a person's passing, celebrate and honor the life of the deceased, provide information about funeral arrangements, and serve as a historical record for future generations. They also provide a way for friends and acquaintances to offer condolences and support to the family.

Who writes obituaries?

Obituaries can be written by family members, friends, or funeral home staff. In some cases, they are written by professional obituary writers or journalists, particularly for prominent individuals or for those published in major newspapers.

What information is typically included in an obituary?

An obituary typically includes the deceased's full name, age, date of birth, place of birth, date of death, short biography, list of surviving family members, details of the funeral or memorial service, and sometimes a photo of the individual.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Each newspaper has its own process for submitting obituaries. Generally, you would contact the obituary department or review the publication's guidelines, which are often available on their website. Some newspapers require funeral homes to submit obituaries on behalf of families.

Can an obituary be published online?

Yes, many newspapers offer online publication of obituaries in addition to print versions. There are also websites and online memorial spaces dedicated solely to publishing obituaries and memorial information.

Is there a cost to publish an obituary?

Many newspapers charge a fee to publish an obituary, which varies depending on length, whether a photograph is included, and other factors. Online platforms may offer free or paid options.

How long after death should an obituary be published?

Obituaries are generally published as soon as possible after a person's death to promptly inform the community, usually within a few days. The timeline can vary depending on the publication schedule of the newspaper or other constraints.

Can obituaries include personal messages or quotes?

Yes, families often include personal messages, favorite quotes, or verses that were significant to the deceased. This adds a personal touch and helps convey the essence of the person's life and beliefs.

What if I make a mistake in an obituary?

If an error is published, contact the newspaper or online platform immediately to issue a correction. Corrections are usually published in the following issue of a newspaper or updated online.

Is it necessary to include cause of death in an obituary?

No, it is not required to include the cause of death. This decision is left to the family's discretion. Some families choose to share this information, while others prefer to keep it private.

How can family members be acknowledged in an obituary?

Family members are typically listed in an obituary to acknowledge their relationship with the deceased. Surviving relatives like spouse, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, parents, and siblings are commonly mentioned, as well as predeceased family members.

Should an obituary be serious or can it be humorous?

The tone of an obituary can reflect the personality of the deceased. While many are written with a serious and respectful tone, it can also be appropriate to include humor if it aligns with the individual's character and the family's wishes.

How do I choose a photo for an obituary?

Choose a photo that reflects the person well. This might be a recent photograph or one from a significant time in their life. Make sure it is clear and of good quality for printing if it is for a newspaper.

What if the deceased did not want an obituary?

If the deceased expressly did not want an obituary published, it's important to respect their wishes. Some families opt for a private memorial or simply share the news of the person's passing within their community in a more personal manner.

Can I include charitable donation requests in an obituary?

Yes, it's common to include requests for charitable donations in lieu of flowers. This provides an opportunity for mourners to honor the deceased by supporting a cause that was important to them.

What's the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

An obituary is generally a more detailed account of a person's life, including biographical details and personal anecdotes, while a death notice is a more straightforward announcement of death and funeral information, often with less narrative detail.

Can friends of the deceased submit an obituary?

While family members typically submit obituaries, friends can also write and submit them, especially if they are working in conjunction with the family or have been entrusted with this role by the deceased prior to their passing.

Is it necessary to include every family member's name?

No, it is not necessary to list every family member by name, especially in larger families. Often, obituaries will include immediate family and mention extended family in a more general manner, such as "cherished by many nieces and nephews."

How do I handle family disputes when writing an obituary?

Writing an obituary during a family dispute can be challenging. It's important to be as inclusive and factual as possible, and strive for a fair representation of the deceased's relationships. If a consensus cannot be reached, a neutral mediator or the funeral director might assist in resolving disagreements.

What should be done if the deceased had a complicated or difficult life?

Even if the deceased had a complicated life, an obituary can still celebrate their positive contributions and the love they shared. Focus on the meaningful aspects of their life and the impact they had on those around them, while being respectful and truthful.

How are obituaries verified for accuracy?

Most newspapers and online platforms have verification processes in place, commonly requiring confirmation from a funeral home. Family-submitted obituaries are typically reviewed and may be checked back against public records or through direct contact with the family for verification.

Can I update an obituary after it has been published?

For newspapers, updates or corrections are usually published in a subsequent issue. For online obituaries, the content can generally be updated or edited after initial publication, depending on the platform's policies.

Are obituaries public records?

While obituaries themselves are not considered public records, they are commonly accessible to the public through newspapers and online platforms. Death certificates are examples of public records related to an individual's passing.

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About Jeffery Isleworth

Jeffery Isleworth is an experienced eulogy and funeral speech writer who has dedicated his career to helping people honor their loved ones in a meaningful way. With a background in writing and public speaking, Jeffery has a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting heartfelt and authentic tributes that capture the essence of a person's life. Jeffery's passion for writing eulogies and funeral speeches stems from his belief that everyone deserves to be remembered with dignity and respect. He understands that this can be a challenging time for families and friends, and he strives to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Over the years, Jeffery has helped countless families create beautiful and memorable eulogies and funeral speeches. His clients appreciate his warm and empathetic approach, as well as his ability to capture the essence of their loved one's personality and life story. When he's not writing eulogies and funeral speeches, Jeffery enjoys spending time with his family, reading, and traveling. He believes that life is precious and should be celebrated, and he feels honored to help families do just that through his writing.