All Obituaries

Esther Peterson, a cherished matriarch of our family and friends, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2023. Her unwavering love and dedication to her family defined her life. A pillar of strength and a source of endless support, she touched the hearts of all who knew her. Her passion for family was unparalleled; she exuded boundless love, always putting the needs of her loved ones before her own. Her nurturing nature created a strong and loving foundation, fostering countless cherished...

Mr. Thomas Edward Franks, age 76, of Astor Florida and formerly of Calhoun Georgia departed this life Friday November 17, 2023. He was born July 3, 1947 in Tifton Georgia to the late Elvis and Elouise Franks.    He loved to fish and spend time doing the Lords work. He loved spending time with his family as often as possible. He spent as much time with his church family as he could at Liberty Baptist in Deland Florida where he was the treasurer and he loved to take care of the...

Rudolph B. Arlotta, 95 of DeLand passed away November 16, 2023 at Halifax Medical Center. He was born in Bronx, NY on July 13, 1928 and moved to DeLand in 1988 from Miami. When he was in Miami he worked as a mechanic for Eastern Airlines for 28 yrs working his way up to lead Forman. Rudy served in the United States Army and was a member of Stetson Baptist Church in DeLand. He was predeceased by his wife of 72 years, Charles Lee “Charlie” Arlotta and son Douglas Arlotta. Survivors...

On Saturday, November 11, 2023, at the age of 89, Jack, after a short illness, left his home in DeLeon Springs to reside in Heaven for eternity.  With his wife by his side, he peacefully entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at 1:05 am.  He is preceded in death by his dad, Johnie R. Wilson and, his mom, Flora Missouri Jeffrey Wilson.  He is survived by his wife, of 68 years, Mary Ann (Almond) Wilson, his son, Johnie R. Wilson, III (Dorothy), his...

Antonia Velez Lafosse, 77 of DeLand passed away October 31, 2023 at the Halifax Health Hospice of Volusia/Flagler Care Center in Orange City. She was born in Santurce, Puerto Rico on June 14, 1946 and moved to Florida in 2003 from Boston, Massachusetts. Antonia retired in 2020 as a dining room assistant at DeLand Middle School, after 17 years of service. She was a member of El Santuario in DeLand. She was predeceased by her husband of 46 years, Juan “Wally” Ortega, son Jose...

Agnes D. Burbine, age 89, passed peacefully on October 29, 2023. She was born in Wakefield, Mass on December 12, 1933. She spent the first part of her life there. After getting her Nursing Diploma from Malden Hospital, she married Peter J. Burbine (1933-2017). They spent 63 years together and had seven (most adorable) children. In addition to raising us, she worked as a Registered Nurse at West Volusia Hospital (now AdventHealth DeLand) for over 20 years. She was, along with Dad, active...