Annie Barry, 70, Columbus
As a retiree, she founded and organized a meal delivering program that provided Thanksgiving meals to thousands of elderly and disabled Columbus residents for almost a quarter-century. She was a devoted advocate for her Southside neighborhood and a leader of the local Democratic Party organization.
George Curry Jr., 90, Oktibbeha County
A dairy farmer by trade, Curry was an advocate for Black residents of Oktibbeha County, which led him to run for county supervisor, a position he held for 28 years. During his tenure, he advocated for county road paving that delivered the first paved roads to many Black residents of the county.
Gary Dedeaux, 65, West Point
The business owner (Gary’s Gun and Pawn in West Point and Columbus) and former West Point selectman (2013-17) was known for his passion for flying, his support of Columbus Air Force Base and his charitable work through his church and with Emmaus Ministries, a national Christian organization that holds spiritual retreats.
Todd Gale, 52, Columbus
As general manager for Columbus Light and Water for 15 years, Gale developed a reputation as an innovative expert in his field, an enthusiastic partner of the city and his warm and accommodating relationship with CLW customers.
Nancy Imes, 92, Columbus
The wife of one Dispatch Publisher (Birney Imes Jr.), mother of another (Birney Imes III) and grandmother of current publisher (Peter Imes), she was a much beloved public figure and philanthropist in her own right, as well as an “influencer” long before the term was invented through her many interests, including the design of the home and grounds of her home in the Prairie known as Windy Hill.
Stephen Imes, 68, Columbus
A businessman, outdoorsman and philanthropist, Imes was known for his expertise in the shooting sport of Helice, his unique personality that made him a friend in any gathering and his support of a wide range of charities, including Kids Across America.
V.J. Robinson, 96, Starkville
A former World War II fighter pilot, the lifelong Starkville resident bought and operated the Western Auto Store as a family business for 50 years until its closure in 2015. He also served as an instructor pilot for the Air Force and personal pilot of former Mississippi Governor J.P. Coleman.
Kevin Stewart, 49, Columbus
He taught math and coached first at Columbus High, then at Caledonia High School, where he inspired his students and community with his positive attitude in battles first with cancer and later with COVID-19, using the hashtag #NoBadDays to express his optimism even as his health deteriorated.
Jan Swoope, 67, Columbus
The longtime Dispatch lifestyles editor’s award-winning work promoted the arts, culture and positive aspects of her beloved hometown. An expert riding instructor and passionate horse owner, she was a devoted music lover and key contributor to helping attract and promote top performers to Columbus Art Council’s programs, shows and exhibits at Rosenzweig Arts Center.
Steve Wallace, 70, Columbus
An attorney who served his community first as a public defender for 15 years and later as Lowndes County prosecuting attorney. Known for his warm personality, love of history and passion for veterans, including his close friendship with “Band of Brothers” hero Brad Freeman, whom he accompanied on numerous appearances across the country and Europe.
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