Grissom High School In Memory

YULONDA HURLEY WILHOITE
July 2, 1951 ~ February 19, 2025
9TH Grade English
1994-2004

Yulonda Hurley Wilhoite, 73, of Huntsville, AL, passed away peacefully on February 19th, 2025. Yulonda was born in Rome, GA, the daughter of Clifford and Gladys (Abernathy) Hurley. She graduated from Red Bank High School in Chattanooga, TN in 1969. She then went on to the University of Tennessee, where she graduated with a degree in Education and later obtained her Master’s Degree from the University of Alabama in Birmingham.

She married John Warren Wilhoite on June 16, 1973. Following their wedding, they relocated to Birmingham, AL, where Yulonda began her first teaching job at Pratt City School. John and Yulonda relocated to Huntsville, AL in 1985. After taking some time off to be home with her children, Yulonda returned to teaching in 1994. She taught 9th grade English at Grissom High School for 10 years, where she was also the sponsor for the National Honor Society and Anchor Club. After a move to Birmingham, Yulonda continued teaching 9th grade English at Hoover High School until she retired in 2010.

Survivors include her husband, John Wilhoite; two children, Emily Wilhoite Bains (David) of Huntsville, AL and Marion Wilhoite Werner (Jason) of Franklin, TN; four grandchildren, Amelia and Owen Bains, and Oliver and Isla Werner; and her sister, Glenda H. Fitzpatrick (Larry Smith) of Conyers, GA.

A memorial service will be held on April 12th, 2025, at 1:30 pm at Valley United Methodist Church in Huntsville, with the Reverend Wren Clanton officiating. A reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Free 2 Teach, P.O. Box 1405, Huntsville, AL 35807.

MICHAEL COLEY RALSTON '72
November 5, 1953 ~ February 5, 2025

Michael Coley Ralston, 71, of Huntsville, passed away February 5, 2025. Mike was a proud graduate of the original Grissom High School.

Survivors include his father, Steve Ralston, stepmother for 43 years, Daphine Ralston; brothers, Tom Ralston (Katie), and Brad Ralston; sons, Jonathan (Chelsea) and Jared (Liz); much loved aunt, Susy Ralston; grandchildren, Jackson, Ava, and Dean Ralston; step-family, Tammy Balch, Brooke Balch (Sheila), Reid Balch; nephews and nieces, Sean Ralston, Stephanie Ralston, Mary Kathryn Edwards (Collin), Patrick and John Balch; great nephew, Ben Edwards; a dear friend, Judy Lawrence; also many kind caregivers for many years at Whitesburg Gardens/Rocket City Rehab. Michael was preceded in death by his birth mother, Mary Lynn Ralston.

Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Whitesburg Baptist Chapel, South Campus. The memorial service will immediately follow. There will be a private graveside service.

Memorials may be made to Samaritans Purse and Gideons International.

JENNIFER LYNNE MARTIN HERKOMMER '91
December 2, 1972 ~ December 14, 2022

Jennifer Lynne Herkommer, 50, of Harvest, Alabama passed away at Huntsville Hospital on December 14, 2022.

She was preceded in death by her sister April Michaell McDowell.

She is survived by her parents; James Martin of Elkmont, Alabama and Cheryl Pylant Mitchell of Ardmore, Alabama, husband; Udo Herkommer of Harvest, Alabama, and brother; Jasen Martin of Goodlettsville, Tennessee.

Visitation will be Sunday, December 18, 2022, at Ardmore Chapel Funeral Home in Ardmore, Alabama from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Funeral Services will follow visitation at 2:00 PM, at Ardmore Chapel Funeral Home. Mrs. Herkommer will be laid to rest at Gatlin Cemetery. Bro. John Sweeney will be officiating.

ABIGAIL FAITH POE ‘22
December 12, 2003 ~ January 29, 2025

Abigail Faith Poe, age 21, of Huntsville, Alabama passed away suddenly on January 29, 2025, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Abigail was born in Huntsville, Alabama to Randall Keith and Julie Byrd Poe on December 12, 2003. From the time she was a baby, she brought joy to everyone around her. Abigail graduated from Grissom High School in 2022 where she was active in theatre and choir while balancing many AP classes. She proceeded to study elementary education at The University of Alabama where she was an involved member of the Alpha Kappa Psi Alpha Rho Chapter and made the President's list for 5 semesters in a row. She was a passionate about her dreams to educate the next generation. Abigail carried laughter, singing, and love everywhere she went, and the love was returned in full by her family, friends and classmates.

Abigail is survived by her mother, Julie; her sisters, Lynnlee and Alyssa; and her brothers, Evan, Gabriel and Stephen. She was preceded in death by her father, Keith.

Memorial donations may be made in Abigails's to honor to Nick's Kids Foundation. https://www.nickskidsfoundation.org/donate

JAMES RONALD CLEMENTS JR ‘80
October 2, 1961 ~ November 24, 2024

James Ronald Clements, Jr. of Huntsville, Alabama, sadly passed away on November 24, 2024, at the young age of 63. James was born in Reform, Alabama on October 2, 1961. The family moved to Huntsville in 1963. James attended Evangel and Highlands Elementary Schools and Ed White Middle. He participated in Indian Guides (he was “screaming eagle”) and played p*e wee football.

He graduated from Grissom High School in 1980. Because of his “big” personality he was a cheerleader rather than a football player.

James attended Jacksonville State for two years. He worked as a salesman in Montgomery for a couple of years for a gutter and siding company and gained enough experience to start his own business in Madison County. James never met a stranger.

James loved German Shepherd dogs. His first dog walked beside him for miles along the Greenway. His last beloved dog was by his side to the end.

James began suffering declining health problems from arthritis in the fall of 2023 and developed cardiorespiratory problems in 2024.

James is survived by his son, James Ellis Clements; parents, Ron and Alice Clements; brother, Alan Clements (Lindsey); and sister, Leslie Riley (Tim).

A visitation will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Laughlin Service Funeral Home for friends and family.

SAMANTHA ELIZABETH “SAM” PAXTON ‘04
April 14, 1986 ~ January 18, 2025

Samantha entered this world on April 14, 1986, and exited this earthly realm on January 18, 2025. Samantha was born in Birmingham, AL. She attended Hewitt-Trussville Elementary School, Mountain Gap Middle School, and graduated from Grissom High School in 2004. She obtained a bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders in December 2010 from the University of Alabama. After working in the public sector, she transitioned to her most rewarding and chosen career in 2020 with the birth of her first child, Van. Bodie followed in 2022.

Samantha was a force of nature with a personality to match. Her hobbies were friendships and memory making. Once you met her, you were unlikely to forget her. Her bubbly personality usually lit up the room. Her laugh was genuine and infectious. She loved to talk, sing, dance with vigor, and travel. She never met a stranger and made people feel “heard and accepted”.

She was full of love, but her greatest love was for her children. When Van was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes two years ago, she met the challenge head on making sure she had the knowledge to give him the best care possible. She had a unique way of touching lives and continued this tradition by donating her organs. She was able to give her heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, eyes, and bone tissue to people in four states. Her legacy is allowing others to live and have improved health and eyesight. Her cousin, Jaimie, commented that whoever received her heart was truly gifted. As her gifts traveled to different states, I know that Samantha would have loved that she is still traveling along!

She was preceded in death by grandfather, James Tucker, grandmother, Gloria Paxton, and uncles, Danny Russell, and David Paxton. She is survived by her sons, William Van Howard and Bodie Bennett Howard; fiancé, Kyle Howard; and mother, Anita Giles (Tom), all of Huntsville; father, Thomas Paxton (Chryl), of Cleveland, AL; grandmother, Ann Tucker of Carbon Hill; grandfather, Roy Paxton, of Vincent; aunts, Denise Rollo (Wayne), and Debra Russell of Cullman; uncle, Greg Tucker, of Birmingham; first cousins (maternal) Kim, Gerald, Ashley, Valorie, Kelley, Seth, Jaimie, and Haley; (paternal), John David, Kyle, and Stone; and stepfamily, Beth, Holden, and William, Robert, Margie, and Miles. Samantha was loved by so many, and it is impossible to list the multitude of cousins and friends left behind.

Her family is gathering for a private burial and will announce the date for a celebration of life later.

In loving memory of Samantha, so full of grace,
Her vibrant personality, a light we can't replace.

She loved and accepted everyone she knew,
With a heart so pure and a soul so true.

Her two boys, her treasures, her pride,
In their love, her spirit will forever reside.

She lit up every room with her radiant glow,
Leaving memories that will always grow.

She gave others life, her final gift so grand,
Through organ donation, she lent a helping hand.

Though she's no longer with us, her light remains,
In the love and joy she shared, her essence sustains.

Rest peacefully, Samantha, in our hearts you stay,
A beacon of love, guiding us each day.

By: Ashley & Malaya

ALLISON MARIE GOMEZ-OROZCO '09
September 27, 1990 ~ April 11, 2022

Allison Marie Gomez-Orozco, 31 of Huntsville, passed away on April 11, 2022.

She is survived by her son, Jace Kane Orozco-Kaholokula; her mother, Vivian L. Gomez; Her father, Joseph A. Orozco; brothers, Eric Michael Orozco and Joseph A. Orozco; grandmother, Ana Maria Gomez; and nephew, Jesse Elijah Orozco.

Visitation will be Wednesday, April 20th beginning at 9:30 AM at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 13550 Chaney Thompson RD SE. Rosary will be from 10:30 - 11:00 AM with Father Tim Pfander officiating followed by Mass at 11:00. Burial will be at Maple Hill Cemetery.

Berryhill Funeral Home is assisting the family.

KAREN VELLACOTT-FORD '07
June 5, 1989 ~ May 21, 2024

Karen Ann Vellacott-Ford, 34, of Raleigh, North Carolina, died at UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill, NC on May 21st, 2024, due to complications from cancer.
Karen was born in Huntsville, Alabama on June 5, 1989 to Kevin and Sandra Vellacott-Ford. She enjoyed many creative pursuits, including writing, dancing, photography, wood-burning, and drawing. One of her many passions was travel, and she had aspirations to visit Iceland.

Karen always managed to maintain an infectiously upbeat attitude, even in times of hardship. Her kind and thoughtful spirit was evident to everyone who knew her.

Karen attended the University of Alabama in Huntsville, where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Biology, as well as Purdue University, where she earned her PhD in Entomology.

Karen was preceded in death by Annie Jo Ford (grandmother), and is survived by her twin sister, Suzanna Vellacott-Ford; her brother, Kyle Vellacott-Ford; her grandmother, Nancy Crownover; her father, Kevin Vellacott-Ford; and her mother, Sandra Vellacott-Ford.

Viewing and visitation for Karen is Wednesday, May 29th, from 10:00-11:30 AM, with burial immediately following, at Valhalla Funeral Home in Huntsville, Alabama.

A Celebration of Life will follow from 1:00-3:00 PM, also at Valhalla Funeral Home.

KEITH ROBERT JENNINGS ‘82
August 5, 1964 ~ January 3, 2025

Keith Robert Jennings was born Aug. 5, 1964 in Frankfurt, Germany to C.D “Jim” Jennings and Carol Pederson Jennings. His father’s career in the Army brought them to Huntsville where he was raised and graduated from Grissom High School in 1982. He died Jan. 3, 2025 at Huntsville Hospital following a progressive illness.

Keith married Oklahoma native Teresa Ann Schwinn on Oct. 17, 2001. Together they raised four girls, Kaely Marie, Lacei Ann, Destiny Rochelle and Tracy Carolynn. Daughter Lacei Ann died in Oct. 2021 as a result of a hit-and-run driver. In addition to Teresa and their three surviving daughters, Keith is survived by siblings Lori, Jay and Charles.

Through much of his life Keith worked in the design and manufacture of weight-measuring devices and for a period in the oilfields in five different states. In is latter years he worked in construction.

A memorial service will be held at the Decatur Seventh-day Adventist Church at 540 Beltline Road on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025 with visitation starting at 2:30 p.m.

Berryhill Funeral Home assisted the family.

KENJARIQ A “KJ” FREEMAN ‘11
December 11, 1992 ~ December 22, 2024

Mr. Kenjariq A. Freeman,32,Gadsden, passed away Sunday, December 22, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. Kenjariq was born December 11, 1992 in Etowah county to Larissa Freeman & Kenneth Green. He graduated from Grissom High School, Huntsville, Al.

He loved video games, and had a Entrepreneur mind. He loved to travel and had a Enthusiastic about friends & family, played football at Grissom High School and his favorite saying was “ I Love You”

Kenjariq was preceded in death by his Father Kenneth Green, Elzorah R. Hann, & Carolyn E. Kennon.

Kenjariq leaves to cherish Mother; LaRissa Freeman(Melvin Skyes, Jr), Sister; Philnecia Freeman, Brother; DeSean Smith, Aunts; LaShunda Freeman, Belinda Green, Sallie Lett, Melissa Britt & Mary English, Special Cousins Terrell Kelly, Keja Green, Jermeshiya Green, Brandon Jackson, Brandy Jackson & a host of other relatives and friends.

Celebration of life for Mr. Kenjariq Freeman Will be announced at a later date by the family.

WILLIAM DAVID “JESSI” CASSIMUS ‘15
April 27, 1997 ~ April 4, 2023

William David Cassimus, 25, of Huntsville passed away on Tuesday, Apr 4, 2023.

William was born and grew up in Huntsville. He lived in Berkeley CA and then Denver Colorado.

He enjoyed cycling, hiking, fishing and being outdoors. He read extensively learning about religion, world history and organic chemistry. He could talk for hours about the history of weapons, world wars, historically significant battles, and could tell you anything you wanted to know about reptiles. William will forever be known for his kind and empathetic heart, quick wit and the ability to make anybody laugh with his keen sense of humor. He will be missed immensely by his family and friends.

William is survived by his parents, Debbie Lee-Cassimus and David Cassimus of Huntsville; his sister, Torrey Cassimus of Alameda CA; his nephew, Levi Cassimus; his uncle, William Lee of San Francisco CA and George D. Cassimus of Dallas, TX; his aunts, Patricia Lee-Leonard (Larry) and Mary Lee (David), both of San Diego CA; his cousins, Nicholas Lee and David Lee of Denver CO, Max Leonard of San Diego CA, George Cassimus and Jason Cassimus of Decatur AL and Caroline Woody of Huntersville, NC.

A graveside service will be held Sunday, April 16, 2023, at 1:00 pm in Maple Hill Cemetery.

RONALD LEROY SAUER '74
March 8, 1955 ~ December 18, 2024

Ronald LeRoy Sauer, 69, passed from this life on December 18, 2024, following a brief illness. Born on March 8th in Evansville, IN, Ron graduated from Grissom High School in 1974 where he competed on the wrestling team and met many lifelong friends. After graduation, he moved to Ft. Lauderdale, FL before re-locating to serve as a U.S. Navy photographer stationed in San Diego, CA which aligned with his passion for travel. Following his service, he returned to Florida, drawn by the warm weather, and embarked on a diverse career as a radio disc jockey, lighting expert, networking specialist, and real estate investor.

During his time in Florida, Ron met the love of his life, Gabrielle Rendini Sauer. Together, they built a life filled with love and shared their home with their adored dogs. Recently, Ron returned to his childhood city, Huntsville, AL, to be closer to family and friends.

Ron is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gabrielle, and his parents, William “Bill” and Amie Marie “Mary” Sauer. He is survived by his loving siblings, Rick (Mary) Sauer, John (Cari) Sauer, Don (Vickie) Sauer, Cheryl (Harry) Garber, Carol (Jerry) Morrison, and James Sauer. He also leaves behind numerous cherished nieces and nephews, Scott, Nicole, Ceacila, Lauren (Joel), Andrew, Rusty (Christine), Matt, Nikki, Layla, Joey, and Amie (Mason); as well as many great-nieces and nephews.

KAREN "KRIS" ANN KELLY '84
August 24, 1965 ~ December 20, 2024

We regretfully announce the passing of Karen "Kris" Kelly on the morning of December 20, 2024. Born on August 24, 1965. A incredible woman with a vibrant spirit, her life exemplified strength, love, and compassion for all those around her.

With her protective nature and witty, sarcastic humor, Karen had an innate ability to fill a room with laughter even during tough times. Her giving spirit was a testament to the selflessness she showed throughout her life, a lesson carried forward by those who were fortunate to know her.

Karen is survived by her loving daughter, Kelly Melton, who embodies her mother's strength and compassion. The bond they shared was impenetrable and filled with mutual respect and admiration. She is also survived by her eldest brother John Kelly III, who she cared for deeply. She was predeceased by her mother, Katherine Williams. The love and strength of these two women remain a constant source of inspiration for Karen's family and friends. She is also predecessor by her father, John Kelly who passed this same year. She exemplified his strength and compassion.

A legacy of love and strength defines Karen. Her selfless nature and compassionate heart have served as guiding lights to everyone she has touched. Her loss leaves an impossible void to fill, yet, her teachings of kindness, courage in life's valleys, and love for those around her provide us with the resilience to bear this loss and celebrate her enduring spirit.

As we remember Karen, we recall her laughter, her love, and the meaningful lessons she imparted on us. We are grateful for the time we had with her, the memories shared, and the legacy she leaves behind – a legacy of love and strength that will continue to inspire and guide us in our journey ahead.

DAVID M KEYES '76
September 22, 1958 ~ March 5, 2022.

David Keyes, 63 years old, of Plano, Tx, passed away March 5, 2022.

He was born September 22, 1958 in Muskegon County, Michigan. He was the son of Richard Keyes Sr and Lenita “Lynn” (Bedford) Charhut.

David was a proud United States Navy Veteran having served two enlistments. After his time in the Navy, he led a civilian life working as a technological engineer. He loved spending time working on his computers, designing and spending time with his family and friends.

He is loved by many and our “Gentle Giant” will truly be missed.

David was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather; Donald “Don” Charhut, Sister; “Debbie” Keyes and a son; Jason Jeffrey.

He is survived by step daughters; Shawna Brooks and Tonya (Eric) Mitchell, both of Sherman, Tx, brother; Richard Keyes and his family, sister; Diana Keyes and her family, both of Huntsville, Al., former wife and longtime friend; Deniese Sims.

He is also survived by niece; Heather Lynch, nephew; Nathaniel Ortiz, Niece; Garbriella, Brother in Law; Phillip Lynch, all of Houston, grandchildren; Chelsea, Casey, Garrett, Nicole, Amanda, Thomas, Brian, Jeremiah, Marrissa, Cameron, Mikey and 5 great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Waldo Funeral Home, 619 North Travis, Sherman, Texas 75090 has charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waldofuneralhome.com.

For further information call his daughter, Tonya Mitchell, at 430-262-9143.

DIANA KEYES MAGERL '74
February 12, 1956 ~June 16, 2024

suddenly passed away on June 16, 2024 in Huntsville, AL. She is survived by her husband Bill, their two daughters Faydra and Michelle, brother Richard and sister Debbie. She is preceded by her parents and brother David. There was a small gathering of Diana's family and friends after she passed. If anyone wants to do something in Diana's memory, please plant something living.

KEITH BLUE CAMPBELL '76
April 3, 1958 ~ December 2, 2024

Keith Blue Campbell, 66, of Huntsville, AL passed away December 2, 2024. He was born April 3, 1958. Keith graduated from UAH in '78 and was the owner/founder of Koncrete Concepts. Keith precedes his mom and is survived by his father Ernie. Visitation was held on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at Laughlin Service Funeral Home. A graveside service was followed at Huntsville Memory Gardens, Huntsville, AL.

LAWRENCE EDWARD SHUMAN '73
March 18, 1954 ~ December 7, 2024

Lawrence Edward Shuman, Jr. MT. PLEASANT - Lawrence Edward Shuman, Jr., (Larry), of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, husband of Donna L. Shuman, entered into eternal rest Saturday, December 7, 2024. Larry was born March 18, 1954, in Charleston, South Carolina, the fourth of nine children and son of the late fun-loving parents, Lawrence Edward Shuman Sr. and Margaret Moore Shuman. He grew up and attended schools in Alabama, where he met and married his high school sweetheart. Larry and Donna moved to Mount Pleasant where he began a career and raised his two daughters. His 35 year career started as one of twenty first hires to start up the new Amoco Chemical Cooper River Plant in Wando, SC. Everyone knew to call Shu when something wasn't operating properly! He was also known for being the go-to guy for all his family and friends when they were in need. When not working, he enjoyed camping, traveling, and cruising the world. Larry especially loved family and his University of Alabama football! ROLL TIDE! He is survived by his wife, Donna, of 51 years; and daughters, Michelle Austin (Jerry) of Rockingham, NC, Sandy Shuman of Greenwood, SC; and grandchildren, Jerry Austin III, William Austin, and Marlee Austin of Rockingham, NC. Siblings: Peggy Hughes (Jim), Georgetown, SC, Sally Sherman (Mike), Leesville, SC, Becky Pennington (Elliott), Mt. Pleasant, SC, Kate Shuman, Columbia, SC, Dina Walker (Cary), Mt. Pleasant, SC, Maria Hudson (Mark), Isle of Palms, SC, Hal Shuman (Emma), Mt. Pleasant, SC; and many special nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by parents, Lawrence Edward Shuman Sr., Margaret Moore Shuman; and sister, Lynn Baker. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, PO Box 4777, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10163 or East Cooper Meals on Wheels, 2304 N. Hwy. 17, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29466. The family would like to give special thanks to Jennifer and Lisa of the Hospice Care Team. A gathering of family and friends will be held Sunday, December 15, 2024, in the J. Henry Stuhr Inc., Mount Pleasant Chapel, 1494 Mathis Ferry Road, from 2:00 until 4:00 pm. Please honor Larry by wearing your Crimson Tide attire/colors. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. A memorial message may be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.