News!

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Send news items to us via email to reunion@svhs1965.com.

Christmas Lunch at Vestavia Country Club, December 17, 2025

Such a fun SV lunch today—great food, laughs about old times and Johnny Robinson stealing the show with his jokes! Sorry for those that missed it.

Photos from our 60th Reunion are online.

(9/11/25) Some of the photos from our August 23, 2025 60th Reunion are online at gallery-60.html

A slideshow with over 200 photos is being created and everyone will be notified when that happens.

In the meantime, enjoy looking at individual photos.  If you have any to share, send them to me at reunion@svhs1965.com.

- Mae

CLICK HERE FOR UPDATED LIST OF PAID RESERVATIONS.

 

 

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Recently Discovered Older Obituaries (updated 8/5/25)

We have recently been researching "missing classmates" are sad to report the passing of these classmates.

Found in 2025: Kathleen Andrew Ward, John Fredrick Beaumont, Herbert Rish Boswell, Gini (Cox) Kessler, Lynda Ennis, Phyllis Greenberg Risman, Edgar Liston Lawrence, Shari (McKay) Ackerman, Eslie Earl Nordan and Robert Charles Sutton

Found in 2024: Libby Brateman, William "Bill" Carter, Patricia "Patti" (Russell) Winter, Suzanne (Setzer) Brookhart, and Cheryl (Swope) Browne.

Visit the In Memoriam Page to read these obituaries, where available.

Recent Obituaries (updated 3/18/26)

Click to refresh page with latest information.

We are sad to report the passing of our classmates listed below. Visit the In Memoriam Page for a complete list and many available archived obituary announcements.

 

Alan Lee Ferguson
April 17, 1947 - March 9, 2026

Dr. Alan Lee Ferguson (Lee) of Birmingham, Alabama, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 9, 2026 after several months of health complications.

He was born in Birmingham on April 17, 1947, to Eula Christine (Chris) Sawyer Ferguson and James Dalton (JD) Ferguson. Lee spent his younger years in the Ensley area. A family move took him to the Hollywood area of Homewood where he attended Shades Cahaba Elementary, Homewood Junior High School and Shades Valley High School, graduating in the Class of 1965. He dabbled in a few sports growing up but wrestling became his high school specialty.

Lee assisted his father with filming the University of Alabama football team on game days during high school and college. He enjoyed being in the press box and had a number of interesting stories to tell from the experience. The Greek life called him to membership in Psi Chapter of Delta Kappa Epsilon.

He received his B.S. of Chemistry in 1969 from the University of Alabama and his Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) from the University of Alabama Birmingham School of Dentistry in 1975. During his time in dental school, he was selected to be a member of a group called the Super Eight, which allowed a small group of dental students to begin treating patients earlier in their education.

Following dental school, Lee served 3 years in the U.S. Air Force as a general dental officer with the rank of Captain at Edwards Air Force Base. After his service, he worked in Public Health Dentistry for 2 years, then established his private family practice in Homewood, Alabama and retired in 2023 after 50 years of practice. While practicing, he served in the Alabama Army National Guard as an M48 A2C Crewman for 6 years where he drove tanks in military exercises, acquiring entertaining stories along the way.

Lee was dedicated to organized dentistry, serving in numerous positions within the local, state and national dental community. Some of those included the Birmingham District Dental Society, Alabama Dental Association (ALDA), Alternate Delegate –American Dental Association, a Trustee and the Speaker of the House of Delegates-ALDA, Fellow in the American College of Dentists and the International College of Dentists. He was awarded as a Most Excellent Fellow-ALDA and Dentist of the Year-Birmingham District Dental Society in 2008. ALDA granted him Gold Certificate Membership in 2025 for recognition of his 50 years of dental service.

Golf was a favorite pastime of Lee's, as well as riding his Harley with friends on the back roads, tinkering on projects around the house, and Crimson Tide football. Many evenings he could be heard playing jazz on the piano, tapping his foot on the floor to the beat. He enjoyed listening to a good dueling pianos event! Lee was very proud of his three children and loved watching them grow up into the accomplished adults they are today. He also loved to tell a good story, and he had some great ones. Those story-telling sessions and the laughter that followed will be greatly missed.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents and step-parents, JD Ferguson- Martha Joiner Ferguson, Richard E Vick-Chris Sawyer Vick. He is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Elizabeth; his children Alan (Caitlin) Ferguson, Dalton (John) Marshall, Lauren (Kyle) Alligood; grandchildren Clay and Aiden; step-sister Rebecca (Eric) Turner; step-nephew Brett Fairley; step-niece Elizabeth (Steve) Bromley and their two sons.

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and technicians at UAB St. Vincent's Hospital, Brookdale Physical Therapy Rehabilitation, and Lipford Home Care for the compassion and care they provided.

A family graveside service will be held on March 15 at Southern Heritage Funeral Home and Cemetery. A memorial service will be held March 16 at Vestavia Hills Methodist Church in the chapel. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am and the service at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Vestavia Hills Methodist Church or to The Lovelady Center Dental Clinic: The Lovelady Center, Atten: Development, 7916 2nd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35206, marked for Lee Ferguson/dental, or Loveladycenter.org/donations marked in memory of Dr. Lee Ferguson.

Visit the online obituary and guestbook HERE.

Phyllis Jane (Ziff) Alltmont
June 14, 1947 – February 14, 2026

Phyllis Jane Ziff Alltmont, age 78, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was born on June 14, 1947, in Birmingham, Alabama, and passed away peacefully at home in New Orleans on February 14, 2026.

Phyllis was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose life was defined by service, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to the people and community she loved.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Jack Alltmont; her sons, Jeffrey Alltmont (Rachel), and Michael Alltmont (Ava); and her cherished grandchildren, Jacob, Sydney, Hannah, Tatum, and Evie, who were a constant source of pride and joy. She is also survived by her sister, Marilyn Kullman (Paul), and her sister-in-law, Marylynn Alltmont (Charles, z"l); as well as nieces, great-nieces and nephews, and an incredible circle of friends who were family in every sense of the word.

Phyllis was known for her extraordinary generosity, deep devotion to her family and friends, and a sense of humor and honesty that were truly unmatched. She had a rare ability to live with both strength and compassion, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. In a life defined by care for others, Phyllis was, in her final chapter, surrounded by an exceptional team of caregivers who reflected those same values. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the medical, hospice and in-home professionals who provided extraordinary care with dignity, compassion, and genuine humanity.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Touro Synagogue, 4238 St. Charles Ave, New Orleans, with a reception to follow. A private family graveside service will be held at Hebrew Rest Cemetery III. The memorial service can also be live streamed by using the following link. After clicking on the link, please choose "Main Sanctuary"- https://tourosynagogue.com/livestream/ In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Touro Synagogue, Second Harvest Food Bank or Touro Infirmary allowing Phyllis's memory to continue impacting the community she so dearly loved.

Visit the online guestbook and obituary HERE.

Isabelle "Nan" (Britton) White
04/18/1947 - 02/01/2026

Isabella Britton White, affectionately known as "Nan" to friends and family, passed away on February 1, 2026 in Birmingham. She was born on April 18, 1947 in Tuscaloosa to Fred Hubbard Britton Jr. and Mary Penruddocke Britton.

Mrs. White was raised in Birmingham and graduated from the University of Mississippi, where she was a member of Alpha Omicron Pi Sorority. She was a beloved parishioner of St. Mary's-On-the-Highlands Episcopal Church and spent many years teaching pre-kindergarten at Saint Luke's Day School. Mrs. White is survived by her daughter, Katie White, her son, John Mark White Jr. (Rachel), and her sister, Mary Britton Bowling (Rod).

A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Mary's-On-the-Highlands Episcopal Church on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at 2:00 pm with a visitation beginning at 1:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Better Basics Books for Birmingham and St. Mary's-on-the-Highlands.

Visit the online guestbook and obituary HERE.

Janice Windham
January 17, 2026

(1/27/26) Janice Windham, age 79, a native of Springville, Alabama, and longtime resident of Birmingham, died Saturday, January 17, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her parents, F.G. "Windy" and Frances (Simmons) Windham of Birmingham, and her brother, William Rodney Windham of Tuscaloosa. She is survived by her sister in law, Gail (Read) Windham of Tuscaloosa; her nieces and nephews, Read Windham (Kim) of Huntsville, Milla Windham, and Olivia May (Joe), both of Tuscaloosa; and her great nieces and great nephews, Herren Green and Olivia Dubberly (Hays) of New York, New York, Franklin Green of Montgomery, Sims Windham of Huntsville, Emery Windham of Birmingham, Mary Windham May of Auburn, and Virginia Tate May of Tuscaloosa.

Janice graduated from The University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education. She was a member of Mortar Board and served as President of Alpha Gamma Delta. She was an elementary school teacher for a few years, before joining the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) as a Special Agent in 1978. Janice was the hundredth female to become a Special Agent at that time. Over her twenty year career, Janice was assigned to the New Orleans Division, the New York Division, FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C, and finally the Birmingham Division as a Supervisory Special Agent.

Janice was a longtime member of Canterbury United Methodist Church. She was a co-founder and faithful member of the "Women at the Well" Bible Study. She was one of the first Stephen Ministers at Canterbury and founded the "Hearts and Hands" outreach ministry.

The family would like to thank Dr. David DeAtkine and his staff for the many years of loving care. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations from friends be made to The Windham Family Endowed Nursing Scholarship to benefit nursing students at The University of Alabama, or Canterbury United Methodist Church. In honor of Janice's wishes, no services will be held. Visit the online guestbook and obituary HERE.

Thomas Bailey
April 12, 1947 — January 2, 2026

(1/9/26) Thomas Henderson Bailey, age 78, of Orange Beach, Alabama, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 2, 2026, surrounded by loved ones, after a courageous battle with Stage 4 cancer.

Tom was born on April 12, 1947, in Cahaba Heights, Alabama, to Ruben and Lois Bailey. He lived a life defined by compassion, dedication, leadership, and a deep love for his family.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Dorothy "Dot" Taylor Bailey; his three sons, Stan, Rob, and Russ Bailey; their wives, Kala, Ashley, and Julia; and his five beloved grandchildren.

Tom proudly served his country in the United States Army with the 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam War. He was wounded in combat on Hamburger Hill and was awarded two Purple Hearts, the Bronze Star with Valor, and the Army Commendation Medal for his bravery and service.

Following his military service, Tom became a successful businessman, founding and operating Alabama Construction Supply, Inc. for 34 years.

In 2007, Tom retired to Orange Beach, Alabama, where he spent 21 wonderful years with his wife at The Caribe Resort. He especially enjoyed spending his free time playing golf at Pensacola Country Club.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Currie-Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home in Hoover, Alabama. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026; at 10:00 a.m. Friends and family are welcome. Visit the online guestbook and obituary HERE. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Dr. Michael Parker, Sr.
September 28, 1947 - December 26, 2025

(12/9/25) Michael Wayne Parker was born in Birmingham, Alabama, on September 28, 1947, to Sara Williams Parker and Benjamin Wayne Parker. In 1970 his first child, Heather Barr Parker, was born, which initiated one of his favorite roles in life: being an attentive, involved father. After graduating from Auburn University with BS and MS degrees, Mike, a member of ROTC, joined the U.S. Army. With the Vietnam War raging, Mike was assigned to the U. S Army hospital in Nuremburg, Germany. During those years in Europe, Mike became an avid reader, in search of what really mattered in life. Upon returning home to Birmingham, Mike had an encounter with God that changed him for the rest of his life.

Now a committed Christian, Mike continued his professional journey as a PhD. candidate at the University of Alabama. In 1977 he married Lane Knudsen Parker, with whom he had three more children: Sarah Isabelle Parker, Michael Wayne Parker, Jr., and Franklin Knudsen Parker. A member of the Army Reserves, Mike was asked to accept a position as an active duty "reserve status" officer at Fort Riley, Kansas. Some of the happiest years of his family's life were spent in Manhattan, Kansas, where life-long friendships were established.

The Lord then called Mike to make a turning point decision in his life: join the "regular army" and move to Monterey, California. In his next assignment to Heidelberg, Germany, Mike served at the U.S. Army Medical Headquarters in Europe, 7th MEDCOM. After directing the army's alcohol and drug program in Europe for three years (and showing his children all the wonders of Europe and Scandinavia), he received a National Institute of Aging Post-Doctoral Fellowship at the University of Michigan in the department of aging, where he earned a post-doctorate in Geriatrics. Life in Ann Arbor was COLD, but exciting. His last military assignment was to Anniston, Alabama, where Mike served as Chief of the Behavioral Science Division at Noble Army Community Hospital at Fort McClellan before retiring from a 20-year military career as Lt. Colonel. Those 20 years, though fraught with challenging orders and assignments, were some of Mike's happiest, as a husband, father, patriotic soldier, and Christian.

After much prayer, Mike, always the consummate teacher to his military cohorts, church, and children, received orders from the Lord to accept a position at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa in the School of Social Work, where he distinguished himself, particularly in the area of aging. In 2013 he spent three months on Sabbatical at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. Over his 20 years at the U. of A., Mike continually fought to advance the elderly agenda and to make his Lord known as well as one can at a public university. He was selected as a scholar and subsequently as a national mentor for the prestigious John A. Hartford Foundation and Gerontological Society of America. Mike was an active researcher who authored or co-authored more than 100 academic papers and reports. An excellent teacher, Mike consistently received high reviews from his students who counted him as one of their most influential teachers. He retired in 2019 as professor emeritus.

But for this energetic, passionate soldier, there would be no real retirement from life. He co-authored with centenarian James Houston two books to support the aging Christian: A Vision for the Aging Church and A Vision for the Aging Christian. Joining with colleagues throughout the nation, Mike established the James Houston Center for Faith and Successful Aging to support churches in their ministry to older adults. In 2023, the Center launched AgeReady, an interactive website that helps older adults and their families prepare for the challenges and joys of aging.

In his papers found after he died, Mike had made a list of those things he loved most to do: reading, exercising, music, and, listed as #1, being with and having fun with his five grandchildren. "Papa" tried, more than anything else, to direct them toward Jesus, as well as being silly and quirky with them, too!

A firm believer in the integral role of spirituality in aging successfully, Mike walked courageously down his own personal struggle with Parkinson's disease for five years before succumbing to that dreaded disease. Yet, he was a firm believer in the Lord's direction in our lives. Just as his own son, Mike, Jr. fought quadriplegia for 20 years, so Mike, Sr. battled on, in spite of the physical limitations that Parkinson's imposes. As His Word says, "All things work for good for those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose." This was a dedicated, focused soldier for the Lord who only took his life's orders from on High. His final salute was to no man, but to God Himself. Well done, good and faithful servant!

Mike is survived by his wife, Isabelle Lane Knudsen Parker, daughters Heather Barr Summerford (Robert), Sarah Isabelle Parker Silko (Chris), son Franklin Knudsen Parker, granddaughters Shelby Taylor Roberts, Annie Lane Silko, Mary Aubrey Silko, Adele Marshall Silko, grandson Judson Dixon Roberts, sister Linda Sue Johnson, and a host of other loving relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. at First Presbyterian Church, 900 Greensboro Avenue Tuscaloosa, Al 35401. The family will receive friends from 12:00 P.M. to 12:45 P.M at the church. Burial with military honors will follow the service at Elmwood Cemetery in Birmingham, Al.

To honor Mike's memory, a fund has been established to support family caregivers of individuals with long-term care needs. To contribute, mail checks to the Parker Fund, James Houston Center for Faith and Successful Aging, 1678 Montgomery Hwy, Suite 104 #337, Birmingham, AL 35216 or click on jameshoustoncenter.com.

Visit the online guestbook and obituary HERE.

Jimmy Willard "Jim" Bailey

(12/9/25) Jimmy Willard "Jim" Bailey, age 78, of Birmingham, Alabama, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025.

Born on July 28, 1947, Jim was the son of the late Willard L. Bailey and Virginia Stogner Bailey. A proud graduate of Shades Valley High School, Jim continued his education at Birmingham-Southern College before embarking on what would become a distinguished and influential career in real estate. With vision and determination, he founded The Real Estate Group, serving as both owner and broker. His peers held him in the highest regard; in 2002 he was elected President of the Board of Realtors and honored with the Tom Rast President's Cup Award in recognition of his exemplary leadership, integrity, and service. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim found his greatest joy on the water or in the woods. He was an avid outdoorsman, happiest with the sunset from a boat, treestand or a three wheeler. He loved animals and rescued everything from puppies to squirrels and raccoons. Friends and family will forever remember his steadfast work ethic, love of laughter and loyalty he offered so freely.

Jim is survived by his son, Dr. Jason Michael Bailey, and grandchildren Collins Grace (14) and Isla Katherine (11); his daughter, Brooke Bailey Faucett, and grandchildren Kailynn Bailey Jantz (23), Emma Kate Jantz (19), and Tyler Reign Jantz (14); as well as his son-in-law, John Tison Barganier, husband of Jim's late daughter, Barclay Bailey Barganier. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter, and his sister, Eloise Bailey Adams.

A visitation will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at Southern Heritage Funeral Home, 475 Cahaba Valley Road, Hoover, Alabama 35124. A graveside service will follow at 3:00 p.m. Read the online obituary ahd guestbook HERE.

John Robert Burgess, Jr.

(10/29/25) John Robert Burgess, Jr. died on September 24, 2025, surrounded by family, after an extended illness. He was born in Birmingham, Alabama, on December 3, 1946, to Nanaline Holt Burgess and John Robert Burgess, Sr., both of whom predeceased him.

John attended Samford University for one year before transferring to Auburn University, where he was awarded a B.S. degree in Secondary Education (History) and M.S. degree in Rehabilitation Counseling. He was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity at Samford and at Auburn. Later, he served as Sigma Nu Advisor at Auburn for over 25 years and was named National Advisor of the Year in 2004 and received the Regent's Medallion of Merit Award in 2015. Even after retiring as Sigma Nu Advisor, John continued to help members of the Beta Theta chapter in various ways.

John worked as a rehabilitation counselor at the Vocational Rehabilitation Center in Montgomery before joining the staff of Continuing Education at AUM. In 1978, he transferred to Auburn University, where he initially worked in the Counseling Center as an advisor to students with disabilities. Over the next thirty years, he continued his work with Auburn students as Director of the University Program Council (UPC), Director of Foy Student Union, and Counselor for students in the A.U. Admissions Office. John was widely known for his devotion to assisting students both before and after their enrollment and spent countless hours helping them find their niche on the Auburn campus.

After his retirement, John continued a life of service with untold acts of kindness both to family and friends, as well as to many who never knew him. He is survived by his wife of over 52 years, Betty Burgess; his children, Elizabeth Burgess of Auburn, Alabama and John Robert Burgess, III (Carrie) of Birmingham, Alabama; his sister, Nan Burgess of Auburn, Alabama; his brother, Thad Burgess (Barbara) of Nashville, Tennessee; his nieces, Tiffany Davis (Chris) of Cumming, Georgia, Brittany Westerman (Jannie) of Jasper, Alabama, Haley Burgess of Jasper, Alabama and Lauren Burgess of Canton, Georgia; and six great nieces and nephews.

A celebration of John's life will be held in the Sanctuary at Auburn United Methodist Church on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. with a visitation/reception immediately following in the Fellowship Hall in the Epworth Building.

The family wishes to express its gratitude to Dr. John Abrams, John's primary physician, and to the staff at Bethany House for their kindness, compassion, and professionalism.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the John Robert Burgess, Jr. and Elizabeth deGraffenried Burgess Alumni Endowed Scholarship. The name of the scholarship should be noted with a check made payable to the Auburn University Foundation and sent to Auburn Advancement, P.O. Box 3140, Auburn, AL 36830.

Visit the online obituary and guest book HERE.

Loretta Pearl Minor

(8/9/25) Loretta Minor, a lifelong resident of Birmingham, Alabama, passed away on August 8, 2025, at the age of 78.

Born in 1947, Loretta devoted her life to creativity and beauty as a talented interior designer, leaving her artistic touch on countless homes and spaces throughout the community she loved.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Pearl Minor and Edgar Minor, whose guidance and love shaped the person she became. Loretta's deep roots in Birmingham were matched only by her dedication to her craft and her warm presence among family, friends, and clients. Her life and work reflected a passion for making the world more beautiful—one room at a time. She will be remembered not only for her professional talents but also for her kindness, grace, and the joy she brought to those around her.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Johns-Ridout's Elmwood Chapel, 800 Dennison Ave SW, Birmingham, AL 35211. Visitation 10:00 am - 11:00 am.

Visit the online obituary and guest book HERE.

Wanda (Sturgis) Frost

(7/26/25) Wanda Sturgis Frost, age 78, of Homewood, Alabama, passed away on Thursday, July 24, 2025. She was born in Homewood on October 8, 1946, and graduated from Shades Valley High School. On November 14, 1965, she married the love of her life, Andrew Martin Frost.

Wanda had a long and successful career in telecommunications, serving as a manager at South Central Bell. She was a devoted member of Third Presbyterian Church and had a deep passion for exploring national parks, biking the trails of Sanibel Island, shelling along its shores, and spending quality time with her family. She is survived by her husband, Andrew Frost; daughters, Rachel Frost Brockman and Rebecca Frost Owen; grandchildren, Stewart Brockman, Ashley Brockman Kirkland, Harrison Owen, Winston Owen, and Emory Owen; great-grandchildren, Chloe Kirkland, Flint Kirkland, and Joel Kirkland; and siblings, Walter Ammon, Dottie Ammon, and Marshall "Skeet" Edmonson.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dorothy Edmonson and Harold Alvin Sturgis, and her sister, Janice Sturgis May.

Visitation will be held at 9 a.m., followed by a graveside service at 10 a.m., on Monday, July 28, 2025, at Ridout's Southern Heritage Funeral Home and Cemetery in Pelham, Alabama. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Jimmie Hale Mission. Visit www.jimmiehalemission.com to give online.

Visit the online obituary and guest book HERE.

Lynn (Morrow) Turner

(6/8/25) Lynn Morrow Turner passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on June 2, 2025. She was born on February 1, 1947, to Joseph Lynn Morrow, Jr. and Caroline Kidd Morrow. Lynn was preceded in death by her parents and her brother-in-law, William Walker Jemison, Jr.

She is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Wayne Turner; her sister, Caroline Morrow Jemison Kelley (Jim); her daughters, Elizabeth Turner Kuiper (Steve) and Caroline Turner Ezelle (Jay); and her grandchildren, Caroline Kuiper Tankersley (Jacob), William Turner Kuiper, Helen Morrow Ezelle, Charles Turner Ezelle, and Elizabeth Fielding Ezelle; and many dear nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Lynn attended Shades Valley High school, where she was president of Alpha Delta Psi, and the University of Alabama, where she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority. She was also a member of the Junior League of Birmingham and the Junior League of Albuquerque, NM, where she was editor of its newsletter, The Link.

Lynn was a beloved English teacher, known for bringing classic books to life through her soothing reading voice. To further hone her craft, at age 42, she obtained her master's degree in English from Troy University and was awarded outstanding graduate student of the year.

Lynn always made family her number one priority. Known as Winnie to her grandchildren, she instilled in them that same curiosity and love of learning. You could often find her helping her grandchildren with their upcoming spelling bee, reading books, and practicing vocabulary words while supplying a steady supply of mini Blue Bell ice cream cones.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Lynn's caregivers, Paulina Kitele and Cinthia Zavala.

A graveside service will be held at Elmwood Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 5th, followed by a reception at The Country Club of Birmingham. In lieu of Flowers, memorials may be sent to Encore Community Respite, 350 Overbrook Road, Birmingham, Alabama 35213. Visit the online obituary and guest book HERE.

Carol (Hall) Bowman

(6/8/25) Recently, we learned of Carol Hall Bowman's death on May 8, 2025 and do not have an obituary at this time. The following remarks were posted on the SVHS 1965 Facebook page by her daughter Tanna.

My sweet and gracious mother Carol Hall Bowman went to be with Jesus on May 8th. She has had some respiratory issues and never recovered. She is now sitting in Heaven with her Father taking care of all the children and dogs. She was the best mother anyone could have ever asked for and an even better grandmother to my children. She lived a full life and left her mark on every person she encountered. Her many friendships meant the world to her and her friends were her life line. She was a devoted wife to my father and spent her entire life caring for him. I never heard her complain about the hand she had been dealt. She tackled all problems with grace and love and gave the best advice when asked (and sometimes when not asked). She loved her Savior Jesus Christ, the color purple, Alabama football, purple, her family and friends, purple, her dogs, and the color purple. Did I say she loved purple? So every time you see the color purple, please remember my mother.

We are celebrating the life of this amazing mother, sister, grandmother, wife, aunt, friend and the best doggie mom any pet could ever have on Friday May 16th at 11am at Austin Baptist Church, 7016 Ribelin Ranch Drive in Austin. If you are able to join us in celebrating her life, if you can, please wear something purple in honor of her.

Much Love, Pat and Tanna (and of course Doodle)

Stephen Turner Simpson, Sr.,

(5/16/25) Stephen Turner Simpson, Sr., a longtime resident of Auburn, AL and Atlanta, Ga, died Friday, August 28, 2020, surrounded by family at the age of 73. Steve was born on November 8, 1946 in Atlanta, GA to Creighton and Betsy (Turner) Simpson. He graduated from Auburn University in 1971 with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. He went on to further his education with a Master of Science degree from Purdue University in 1977 where he completed a Residency in Neurology and Neurosurgery. Steve was a member of the Omega Tau Sigma Fraternity and The Society of Phi Zeta. After completing his degree at Purdue, Steve went on to work at the Auburn University School of Veterinary Medicine for 27 years. Upon his retirement in 2007, he was named an Associate Professor Emeritus in the Department of Clinical Sciences.

Steve was preceded in death by his wife Lyndal Balentine Simpson; his parents; his brother, Warren Simpson and his nephew, Warren Johnson. He is survived by his son, Stephen Simpson (Corrie) and daughter, Dana Pritchett (Jason); four grandchildren, Chad Simpson, Matthew Simpson, AnnaKate Simpson and Xander Pritchett and other relatives.

The family is having a graveside service on Saturday, September 5, 2020 at 11:00 at Elmwood Cemetery in Birmingham, AL. In lieu of flowers, memorial tribute gifts may be made to Aflac Cancer Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta via choa.org/fightcancer or 3395 Northeast Expressway Atlanta, GA 30341.

Mary Virginia "Ginger" (Bell) Downie

(1/8/25) Mary Virginia Bell Downie passed away on Sunday, December 22, 2024. Ginger was born in Birmingham, AL on July 16, 1947, and for the past 28 years was a resident of St. Tammany Parish in Abita Spring, LA. She is survived by her loving sons, Scott Downie and Michael Downie; her grandchildren, Alyssa "Alex" Downie, Ryan Downie and Elizabeth Downie; as well as her bonus granddaughter Eryn Taylor. She is also survived by her sister Peggy Bell Craven, and nieces, cousins, and wonderful lifelong friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Roderick Laird Downie, and her parents Elizabeth Bell and Frank Gordon Bell, Jr.

Ginger's greatest passion and love was for the Lord. She raised her boys in church and taught them the fear and admonition of the Lord, in obedience to Ephesians 6:4. She loved her spiritual family at Trinity Church, serving in several ministries, and more recently teaching in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program. Ginger's calling in life involved serving others through education. She was a passionate and lifelong teacher, and she served for many years at Northlake Christian School. When not in the classroom, Ginger enjoyed working in her yard, playing cards, spending time with her grandchildren, and of course her annual summer vacation to Orange Beach, Alabama with her family. She is remembered for her exceptional ability to sew up anything on her sewing machine, operate a boat, slalom ski, lead family devotion time, organize everything, whip up on her sons in ping-pong, and to stand in prayer for those in need. Ginger's love for the Lord and her heart for people leave behind a lasting legacy! Ginger will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Mrs. Downie may be made to Trinity Church benevolence fund at https://trinityefca.com/give/. A celebration of life will be held at Trinity Church at 19380 N 10th Street Covington, LA 70433 on Saturday, January 11, 2025, with visitation at 10:00 AM, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 AM and a fellowship lunch. Family and friends are invited to attend.

Visit the online obituary and guest book HERE.

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Other News

 

Shades Valley 1963, 1964 and 1965 Reunion Committees Donate 1947 Architect's Drawing

Pictured here are Bill Trotter '63, Debbie Davis Denson '65, Warren Bailes Cain '63,
Pierre Tourney '63, Mae Bayliss Coshatt '65, Shades Valley Principal Dr. Antjuan Marsh,
Avery Sloan '63, Marsha Currie Terrell '63 and Virginia Kelser Jones '64.

(4/19/18) In January 2017, Class of 1963 Webmaster Avery Sloan was searching for early photos of Shades Valley's old campus in Homewood and found a link on Google to an eBay ad for a framed drawing. He contacted the owner of the drawing, Rick Carter, and found that it was by the original architectural firm Van Keuren & Davis and dated 1947, two years before the school opened. Carter had found it in his aunt's attic when preparing for an estate sale at her house. He had no idea as to how his late aunt may have come to own the drawing. She was an RN at UAB Childrens' Hospital and had passed away the previous year.

Sloan then contacted several Shades Valley Reunion Committee chairpersons for whom he does work. Warren Bailes Cain '63, Lynne Epsman Cohen '64, Virginia Kelser Jones '64 and Mae Bayliss Coshatt '65 agreed to share the cost of the drawing restoration with the idea of donating it to the new Shades Valley. Virginia Jones took the drawing to Presentations, etc. Studio in Edgewood for restoration and reframing. After years in a hot attic, several air pockets developed between the drawing and its backing. The result is what was presented to the school on Friday, April 13, 2018, prior to the Class of 1963's "Combined" 55th Reunion celebration that included the Classes of 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964 and 1965. After the presentation, Dr. Antjuan Marsh, Principal at Shades Valley, conducted an hour long tour of the new campus for the committees.  See tour photos here.

Photos from our 60th Reunion are online.

(9/11/25) Some of the photos from our August 23, 2025 60th Reunion are online at gallery-60.html

A slideshow with over 200 photos is being created and everyone will be notified when that happens.

In the meantime, enjoy looking at individual photos.  If you have any to share, send them to me at reunion@svhs1965.com.

- Mae

CLICK HERE FOR UPDATED LIST OF PAID RESERVATIONS.

 

 

Class of 1965's 70th Birthday Bash held on August 5, 2017

Over 100 classmates and guests attended our 70th Birthday Bash on August 5, 2017 at the Vestavia Country Club.  Photos are being assembled and will be posted here soon.  In the meantime. visit our Facebook page to see some of the pictures.

For more information, visit this page.

50th Reunion photos featured in al.com

We had a great article in Al.com on September 15th by writer Susan Strickland. She said she heard through the grapevine what a great reunion we had and wanted information and pictures. She included 15 of our pictures. Click on this link to see the pictures and article

Reunion Photos available for $20

If you want a large high resolution group picture or CD of the photos that the photographer took, contact Mae Coshatt at mcoshatt@charter.net. The group photo is $20, the CD is $20 or both together are $35.  OR, you can go to http://marvingentry.photoshelter.com/gallery/Shades-Valley-1965-Class-Reunion-8-15-2015/G0000Lk6uiPgUZuc/ to order any of the pictures (all or individuals). 

Senior Pages from Tower are now online

Senior Class Officers - Seated: Susan Atkins, Girls' Activity Chairman; Nan Tucker, Secretary; Louise Moody, Vice President. Standing: Bette McGibboney, Treasurer; Vecihi Basarin, Boys' Activity Chairman; Herbie Stiles, President; Susan Butler, Assistant Treasurer

(9/15/15) We are now posting updates to bios and contact information received after publication of the Tower 1965 50th Reunion Edition. Visit the Classmates Only section.

(8/11/15) A new Classmates Only section has been added.  It is password protected and you'll need the user name and password to access the pages there. In it you'll find PDFs of the 1965 Tower yearbook along with The new Tower 1965 50th Reunion Edition.

Help us find our Missing Mounties

We've maintained the list of contact information from our 40th reunion celebration in 2005 and used it and recent updates to keep our new database current. A list of Missing & Found Classmates has been created and will be updated as we locate missing classmates.

By making an early start in 2014, we've made a lot of progess and our volunteers have used many tools, but still need your help. Please do what you can to help us find missing classmates and faculty members. Look at the lists to see who you may have information about, let us know, and also spread the word to your friends about our website. Email to reunion@svhs1965.com.

Classmates News

E-blast Archives

Read recent MailChimp email blasts here.

Obituaries

We are sad to report the passing of our classmates as we become aware of their obituaries. Visit the In Memoriam Page for a complete list and many available archived obituary announcements.

Send us your photos!

Along with providing 50th Reunion information, our photo Gallery Pages give a look back at previous reunions (we have none for the 10th) and school activities way back when, and the Links Page should be of interest to everyone. You can help by contributing to these pages. Start now - scan your old high school photos and email to reunion@svhs1965.com. Please keep the size to 640 x 480 / 100dpi max resolution, and try to include the names for captions and approximate dates and descriptions.

Bookmark us and spread the word

We'll be posting news and announcements here as things develop. The coming months are going to be very interesting and exciting as we plan and announce reunion events and make contact with old friends and classmates. Occasions such as a 50th reunion come around only once and we're going to make this one very special. So, add our address to your Favorites or Bookmarks and tell your classmate friends, too. Please email your comments or suggestions to us at reunion@svhs1965.com.

Important: Our official site is free to use

There are several commercial Internet sites that, among other things, provide classmate and reunion information for schools and colleges all over the country. Classmates.com is one of the well known ones and many SVHS alums enjoy using the free and paid subscription services there. If you see any references to The SVHS Class of 1965 Reunion on any of these sites, please make certain that they are showing the link to our official site - svhs1965.com - and not asking you to register, RSVP, subscribe or pay a fee to get information. You do not need to register or subscribe to any of these commercial websites in order to get information about our reunion. Do not RSVP on any of these sites. Your Reunion Committee will have our own reservations procedure in place and will coordinate any listings and announcements on these commercial websites should the need arise. Bookmark our site - svhs1965.com and make us your source of official information.

     - Mae Bayliss Coshatt / Reunion Committee

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