Cleo Eston Willis, Jr.
Cleo Eston Willis, Jr. passed away peacefully on May 13, 2025, in Plant City, Fla., at the age of 95 surrounded by his family.
Born on Jan. 12, 1930, in Georgia. Cleo faced early challenges with strength and resilience. After losing his parents at only twenty-one, he assumed the responsibility of raising his five younger siblings with unwavering dedication. These formative experiences shaped a life marked by perseverance and deep-rooted values.
In 1956, he married Judy Lumley, beginning a loving union that lasted 68 years. Together, they built a life grounded in love and shared purpose. Cleo is lovingly remembered by Judy; their children Jody (Lynne), Julie (Larry), and Holly (Dirk); four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and four sisters.
Affectionately known as “Junior” to friends and “Poppy” to family, Cleo was a man of vision and determination. He founded what became one of the largest drywall companies in Florida and constructed hundreds of homes throughout the Plant City area. However, it was the treehouse he built for his grandchildren that brought him the greatest joy—a quiet testament to his enduring love for family.
Cleo’s life reflected a deep spiritual foundation and steadfast commitment to those he held dear. His legacy endures through the lives he touched and the lasting impact of his work.
A funeral service will be held May 30, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at Hopewell Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 6005 South County Road 39, Plant City, where the family will receive friends at 10:00 A.M. Committal to follow at Salem Cemetery, Sydney. For those unable to attend, the service will be live-streamed starting at 11:00 A.M. at https://www.facebook.com/hopewellfuneral.
May he rest in eternal peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him. Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
Muriel Greenwood Harris
Muriel Greenwood Harris, 90, of Riverview, born on November 29, 1934, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, entered into eternal rest on May 12, 2025.
Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
James Boyce “JB” Sweat
James Boyce “JB” Sweat, 91, of Seffner, Fla., born on July 9, 1933, in Tampa, Fla., entered into eternal rest on May 15, 2025.
Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
Carlos Barona Fajardo
Carlos Barona Fajardo, 53, of Lakeland, Fla., born on May 28, 1971, in Cuidad de Mexico, Mexico, entered into eternal rest on May 17, 2025.
Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
Heriberto Vargas
Heriberto Vargas, 83, of Valrico, Fla., born on Oct. 9, 1941, in Lares, Puerto Rico, entered into eternal rest on May 17, 2025.
Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
Antonio Otero
Antonio Otero, 79, of Brandon, Fla., born on Sept. 21, 1945, in Comerio, Puerto Rico, entered into eternal rest on May 19, 2025.
Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
LaRue Cook Crum
LaRue Cook Crum, 99, of Plant City, Fla., born on Feb. 15, 1926, in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, entered into eternal rest on May 18, 2025.
Expressions of condolences at www.HopewellFuneral.com.
Lisa M. Phillips
Lisa M. Phillips, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, in Brandon, Fla., at the age of 60. Born on Sept. 7, 1964. A graveside service was held on May 21, 2025, at Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Turkey Creek Road, Plant City, Fl. 33567. Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
Robert J. “Mac” McInerney
Robert J. “Mac” McInerney, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, in Lakeland, Fla. at the age of 92. A proud veteran, Mac served his country in the Navy. Services will be held privately by the family. Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
James C. Pitts
James C. Pitts, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, in Temple Terrace, Fla., at the age of 84. Born on Oct. 4, 1940, in Baxley, Georgia, James’s life was a testament to the enduring power of faith and family. Services will be held privately by the family. Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
Christel Noel Koltenbah
Christel Noel Koltenbah, aged 70, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025, in Lakeland, Fla. Born on Apr. 6, 1955, in Warner Robbins, Georgia. Services will be held privately by the family. Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
Robert Tesmer
Robert Tesmer, age 82, of Mulberry, Fla., passed away on May 8, 2025.
Fond memories and expressions can be shared at www.wellsmemorial.com for the Tesmer family.
Erwin B Winters
Erwin B Winters, age 98, passed away on May 9, 2025.
Fond memories and expressions can be shared at www.wellsmemorial.com for the Winters family.
Ronnie C Simpson
Ronnie C Simpson, age 70, of Dover, Fla., passed away on May 1, 2025.
Fond memories and expressions cane be shared at www.wellsmemorial.com for the Simpson family.
