Beverly
Gayle Olson
Beverly Gayle Olson, age 74, of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, passed away unexpectedly in October 2026.
Beverly was born in June 1952 to the late James Leonard “Red” Walters and Jo Ella Walters. She grew up in LaFayette, where her childhood memories and family roots remained a cherished part of her life. Although her journey eventually led her to Fort Walton Beach, LaFayette always remained an important part of who she was.
Beverly was a beautiful soul whose kindness, generosity and joyful spirit touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. She was a shining star whose light never faded, and her laughter could brighten even the darkest days.
Independent and adventurous, Beverly embraced life on her own terms. She traveled and sailed throughout the Southern states before making Fort Walton Beach her home. She spent 20 years working at Red Lobster and the last 15 years at Publix, where she formed many friendships and touched countless lives.
Beverly had a deep appreciation for music, antiques and sewing. A talented seamstress, she enjoyed creating beautiful clothing. Her creativity, individuality and love of life’s simple pleasures were among the qualities that made her so special.
Above all, Beverly was a woman of Christian faith who loved the Lord. Her kindness, generous heart and willingness to befriend anyone reflected the love she carried within her. She never needed grand gestures to make a difference; her warmth, laughter and genuine compassion were gifts in themselves.
Beverly was preceded in death by her loving parents, James Leonard “Red” Walters and Jo Ella Walters; and her nephew, Derek Lamb.
She leaves behind her beloved siblings, Linda Bradfield, Lisa Washburn, Lee Walters (Shannon) of LaFayette, Alabama, and James Michael Walters (Nancy) of Memphis, Tennessee; her cherished nieces, Cheyenne (Jarod) and Nevaeh; her nephews, Gabe Rodgers (Leslie) and Joseph Rodgers; Gabe and Leslie’s daughter, Peyton; her special aunt and dear friend, Bobbie Jean Ashworth; and many other beloved family members and friends.
Though her unexpected passing has saddened our hearts, we find peace and comfort in knowing that Beverly is now resting in the loving arms of Jesus. The bright light she brought into this world will continue to shine through the memories, laughter and love she leaves behind.
Graveside services honoring Beverly Gayle Olson were held on Saturday, Oct. 24, at LaFayette Cemetery located at 225 Southeast Ave. A, in LaFayette.
Though her journey took her many places, Beverly will be brought home to rest in LaFayette.
Her earthly journey has ended, but her light will never fade.
Jeff Jones Funeral Home assisted with the arrangements.
Amy Hansen Gilbert
Amy Hansen Gilbert, age 47, of Valley passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026, at Lanier Hospital. She was born on May 14, 1979, in Phoenix, Arizona.
Amy was known for her sweet and caring nature and her love of helping others. She had the kindest heart and enjoyed shopping at thrift stores. She attended Cornerstone Baptist Church.
She is survived by her husband, Josh Gilbert; her mother, Tammy Hansen; her father, Ted Hansen; her brother, Matthew Hansen, and his wife, Lindsey Hansen; her son, Justin Edgar; her nephew, Jacob Hansen; her niece, Skylar Hansen; her grandmother, Marian Sager; her uncle, Joel Teague; and her aunts, Maria Smith and Sandra Kay.
Amy was preceded in death by her mother-in-law, Donna Gilbert; and her grandfathers, Charles Duncan and Marlin Sager.
Flowers are welcome, or memorial donations may be made to Cornerstone Baptist Church.
Sarah Elizabeth Barninger
Sarah Elizabeth Barninger, 35, of Fredonia passed away in October 2026.
Sarah was a loving mother of her two daughters, Lexi (14) and Kylie (10), and the beloved wife of E. Harrison Barninger.
She is survived by her mother, Sandi Ward of Cropwell, Alabama, and her father, Randy (Tammy) Farring of Florida. Her siblings are A.J. Hite of South Carolina, Ashlea (John) Crawford of Florida, Darci (Tyler) Dowler of Florida, Morgan (Joseph) Reynolds of Arizona and Brandyn Cusic of Kentucky. She has two grandmothers, Lorraine Ward of Remlab, Alabama, and Judy Farring of Florida. Other survivors are mother-in-law, Regenia Barninger of Fredonia, Glenn (Linda) Barninger of Fredonia and grandmother-in-law, Kate Blair of Fredonia. Sarah also has many nieces and nephews. She will be greatly missed.
Sarah is preceded in death by grandfathers Norman Ward and Roland Farring.
Sarah is an Auburn High School alumni with many hobbies and interests like skydiving, scuba diving and a variety of arts and crafts.
A memorial service celebrating Sarah’s life was held Saturday, Oct. 24, at New Hope Baptist Church of Fredonia, 5240 County Road 263, in Lanett.
The Family of Sarah Elizabeth Barninger was served by Valley-Point Funeral Home and Crematory.
