From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Thomas “Tom” W. Wilkes, Jr., 84, Vero Beach
August 01, 1937 – March 07, 2022
Thomas “Tom” W. Wilkes, Jr., passed away peacefully on March 7, 2022.
He was born August 1, 1937, in Nashville, TN, to parents, Thomas W. Wilkes, Sr. and Evelyn D. Wilkes.
Tom is a graduate of Battle Ground Academy, Franklin, TN, and Vanderbilt University, Nashville.
Following many years in banking, Tom, pursued a career in airline marketing with Sabena Airlines and Korean Air, until his retirement.
In 1996, he and his beloved wife, Catherine, decided to move from Palm Beach County to Vero Beach. They purchased a home and a commercial property which became Past & Present Interiors & Mélange, which they sold in 2018.
Tom always kidded that his name should be in “Ripley’s Believe It or Not!” as he had an active Real Estate Broker License for 60 plus years and never sold a parcel of real estate. Cathy always said, “keep it current, you may want to open a real estate office at some point in time.”
Tom is survived by his wife, Catherine S. Wilkes and his son, Michael W. Wilkes.
Along with his parents, Tom was predeceased by his sister, Beverly Carolyn Brown.
Tom’s last wish to their many friends, was no flowers, no donations, just please from time-to-time, check to make sure the love of his life, is doing fine.
Arrangements by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
John William “Bud” Lang, 91, Vero Beach
June 18, 1930 – February 13, 2022
Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, John William “Bud” Lang, 91, passed away peacefully Sunday, February 13, 2022.
John was born June 18, 1930, in Detroit, Michigan son of Helen and John Lang. Living in Fort Lauderdale, FL, and Kennebunkport, ME before settling in Vero Beach, FL in 1977.
As a young boy living during the Great Depression, John grew up with his two older sisters Elaine and Jackie.
He was an avid swimmer on the Grosse Pointe High School Blue Devil swim team, breaking records in the men’s relay during his high school career. John was a proud Army veteran who was drafted in September 1951 during the Korean War. He attended basic training at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas.
He served as a Corporal in Korea from January 1952-May 1953 in the 69th Artillery 25th Division, manning the 105 Howitzer. John spoke of the Korean War with clarity, like it was yesterday, and you could always see him wearing his Korea Veteran hat with pride.
After serving in the Army, John returned to Michigan and attended the Walsh Business School studying the field of accounting. During this time, he met the love of his life, Marlene Joan Basney, at a friend’s wedding and went on to have four children, Brian, Scott, Gary, and Lori.
John enjoyed a long career as an Accountant before becoming Controller/Manager for The Colony Hotel in 1968 spending summers in Kennebunkport, Maine, and winters in Florida, traveling back and forth with his family making the best memories along the way. He then went on to become Controller of John’s Island Club in Vero Beach, FL from 1977-1996 before retiring after almost 20 years. He loved spending time with his family traveling, boating, fishing, and golfing.
John is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 64 years, Marlene Lang; adoring children, Brian Lang, Scott Lang (dec.), Gary Lang, and Lori Mock (Dan); granddaughter, Danielle Lang; grandson’s, John Lang, and Daniel Mock.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 26, at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1850 Sixth Avenue, Vero Beach, FL.
Should friends or family desire, donations may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church or The Scott Lang PGA Golf Management Scholarship at Coastal Carolina University; Attn: Office for Philanthropy; P.O. Box 261954; Conway, SC 29526. In memo state “Scott Lang PGM Scholarship”.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Thomas Paul Gallagher, 63, Sebastian
March 12, 1958 – March 03, 2022
Thomas Paul Gallagher, age 63, passed away March 3, 2022 at his home in Sebastian, Florida.
He was born March 12, 1958 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to the late John and Margaret Gallagher, II. He moved to Sebastian, Florida from Beaver Dam, New York over 36 years ago.
He was a graduate of Monroe Woodbury High School in Central Valley, New York.
Mr. Gallagher was a member of St. Sebastian Catholic Church in Sebastian, Florida. He served for many years as the Crematory Operator of Seawinds Funeral Home on Palm Bay, Florida.
Survivors include his wife of 15 years, Charity Gicain Gallagher; brother, Christopher D. (Darlene) Gallagher; sister, Eileen G. (Robert) Jacobsen; 9 nieces and nephews; 11 grand-nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was deceased by his brothers, John R. Gallagher, III and Owen T. Gallagher.
A Funeral Mass will be held 10:00 a.m. on Friday, March 25, 2022 at St. Sebastian Catholic Church, 13075 US-1, Sebastian, FL 32958.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
James H. Taylor (JT), 89
January 02, 1933 – March 07, 2022
James H. Taylor (JT), beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather passed away March 7, 2022. During his career, JT was an International Operations and Business Development Executive, who worked for Fortune 500 companies including Dow Chemical. He and his family lived oversees in South America and the Bahamas for several years. They ultimately returned to Florida, leaving their Midwest roots behind. Even with his professional successes, he was most proud of the work he did away from the office and during retirement where he positively impacted and taught so many others. His work oversees was often shrouded in mystery, and his nickname “Joe Matriach” perhaps hinted at a secret career, one that showcased JT’s suave “man about town” reputation.
Born January 2, 1933, in St. Paul, MN, JT grew up roaming the woods surrounding Fort Snelling and swimming in the Mississippi River. His love of the outdoors and environment impacted how he lived his life. Dog paddling in the river while trying to keep up with his older brothers led to his love of swimming and success in the pool. He swam competitively in high school, the Navy, and at the University of Minnesota, being named Athlete of the Year, and winning NCAA championships. His love of swimming never left him, and he competed with the Gold Coast US Masters Team, gaining Top Ten National and World Championship rankings. At the University of Minnesota, he was president of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity and named “Big Man on Campus”. It was at the University of Minnesota where he met the love of his life, Ann and they were married for 62 years. He also studied at the University of Madrid which led to a lifelong love of Latin America, and his fluency in Spanish and Portuguese. JT was a graduate of Stanford University Graduate School Program for Executive Management.
“Coach JT” shared his love of swimming with many others, starting his coaching career with his son and his teammates, US Masters Swimmers at the University of Miami, and finally at St. Edwards School in Vero Beach. He also found great joy and fulfillment volunteering for Indian River Habitat for Humanity where he became a crew leader. Anything built by JT was built to last and his gifts of craftmanship remain with us, from arbors, to pottingbenches, a 2-stall barn, and the famous Taylor geese that swim in a pool of light during the holidays.
JT was a man of faith and loved God, his church, his family, and friends. He served as an elder at First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach and sang in the church choir where his deep voice made earned him the nickname “basso profundo”. He sang with the Treasure Coast Chorale, and performed with the Vero Beach Community Theater, playing the role of the lead police officer in “Pirates of Penzance”.
While his many accomplishments professionally and personally are notable, it was JT’s compassion, intellect, and pride in how he lived his life that defined him. He searched for adventure and always looked for the opportunity to explore new places and try new things. He always expected the best of himself and others. His reminders to “tuck in your shirt” or “wallet, watch and keys” were gentle nudges to be ready, look sharp, and make the most of any opportunity. JT made sure his family lived a life of adventure, filled with love and laughter. At any moment he would come in and scoop them up for a road trip with the top down, leaving a trail of dust behind. His greatest joy was his taking care of his family and supporting and celebrating their successes.
JT is now swimming in heaven with the Lord and teaching the angels new stroke techniques with his furry warrior Mimosa by his side. He is survived his wife Ann L. Taylor, his children Kimberly Taylor Locey and Jayme Taylor; grandchildren Brent Taylor Locey, and Skyelar and Leyton Taylor; and great grandson Brent Taylor Locey Jr. (JR).
A private memorial service will be held on Saturday March 19 at 2:00 pm at First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Indian River Habitat for Humanity in his memory.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Duane Arden Judd Sr., 78, Sebastian
September 2, 1943 – February 8, 2022
Duane Arden Judd Sr. 78, of Sebastian, FL, passed away on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, at Kindred Hospital in Melbourne, FL.
He had been the loving husband of Mary (Pereau) Judd for 59 years. Duane was born on September 2, 1943, in Bristol, CT to the late Kenneth M. and Frieda B. (Springer) Judd.
He had been a long-time Southington, CT resident and was a drummer in the Southington high school marching band. Duane retired from R&J Renauld of Cheshire, CT where he worked as a Machinist for many years. Duane also proudly served his country in the United States Navy aboard the U.S.S. Wasp C.V.18 during the Cuban Missile Crisis and Vietnam War. Duane was a member of the American Legion Post 72 of Southington, CT for 47 years. Duane was also a volunteer firefighter for Southington Engine Company #1 for 10 years.
In addition to his wife Mary, he is survived by his two children, Duane A. Judd Jr., and his wife Patricia of Southington, CT, and Donna L. Judd of Sebastian, FL, three granddaughters, Sarah Yaskolka and her husband Justin of Southington, CT, Abigail Judd of Southington, CT, and Alyssa Judd of Sebastian, FL, and six great-grandchildren, Coraline Judd, Avril Judd, Levi Judd, Wynter Yaskolka, Dashiell Judd, and Charlotte Judd all of Southington, CT. He is also survived by a sister Claudia Bell and her husband Kenneth of Plantsville, CT, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by three brothers, Ronald Judd, Kenneth Judd, and Richard Judd as well as a granddaughter Emily Judd all of Southington, CT.
A graveside service with military honors will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Southington, CT at the convenience of the family.
Arrangements are entrusted to Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1623 North Central Avenue, Sebastian, Florida 32958.
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Duane Arden Judd, Sr., please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
From Cox-Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory
Richard David Harter (R.D.), 66, Vero Beach
May 18, 1955 – March 11, 2022
“But those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles. They shall run and not be weary; they shall walk, and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31
Richard David Harter (R.D.), 66, of Vero Beach, FL passed away at his home on March 11, 2022.
Born to William Petrie and Dickie Herring Harter on May 18, 1955, at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital in Albany, GA, Mr. Harter was a Dougherty High School graduate. He served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1973-1977. He received his BA in Journalism from the University of Georgia and his Master of Education from Georgia Southern University. His career in marketing communications and public relations spanned 35 years and included: Director of Public Relations and Marketing at Swainsboro Technical College, President/CEO of R.D. Harter Marketing, Inc., and Public Information Director of Dougherty County School System. He retired in 2015.
Mr. Harter served his communities in many capacities including: Multiple boards at Dublin First United Methodist Church, Leadership Dublin-Laurens County, Board of Directors for Dublin-Laurens Meals on Wheels, Dublin-Laurens County Chamber of Commerce, Dublin Rotary Club, Dublin Laurens Arts Council, Keep Albany-Dougherty Beautiful, and Albany Symphony Orchestra. Other civic group affiliations and recognitions include: Dublin Rotary Club Paul Harris Fellow, Dougherty County Rotary Club Paul Harris Fellow, Leadership Albany graduate, United Way of Dougherty County, and Dougherty County Economic Development Commission. Over his lifetime he received many recognitions including the Anne Raymond Distinguished Service Award by the Georgia School Public Relations Association. He was also the winner of numerous Best in State Awards for Electronic (Video), Special Purpose Publications and Marketing Campaigns.
It was in junior high in Albany that Mr. Harter met Kim, the love of his life. They were married for 48 years and were blessed with two daughters and five grandchildren. Kim called R.D. her “Renaissance man” because of his great love of life and wide-ranging knowledge in many fields. He was first and foremost a child of God, and his faith was always evident in any conversation. He was an avid Georgia Bulldog fan who loyally and enthusiastically rooted for his Dawgs and got to celebrate their winning of the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship in January. He loved music of all kinds, but his all-time favorites were both rock-and-roll and Jimmy Buffett. He loved motorcycles and biking and spent many hours over the years exploring miles of trails and roads. He sought adventure, loved the ocean, and was a gifted writer and photographer. But his most cherished role was family man. His greatest joy was time spent with Kim, their daughters and grandchildren. He will be remembered for his faith, his love of life, family, friends, colleagues and for his quiet energy and ability to handle any situation with consummate professionalism and dignity.
Mr. Harter is survived by his wife, Kim Jackson Harter, daughters Daisy Harter Beaver (Bo) and Sarah Harter Akins, grandchildren Caleb Kangeter, Skylar Akins, Jackson Beaver and Adeline Beaver, sister Patricia Harter Lanning (Richard), and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and multiple cousins.
He is preceded in death by his father and mother, William Petrie and Dickie Herring Harter, and his grandson Dawson Trevor Akins.
Visitation and graveside services will be held March 17, 2022, 9:30am at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in North Mims, FL, with Color Guard flag presentation and playing of Taps. Reverend Richard Lanning will officiate.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Flint River Baseball team in Leesburg, GA flintriverbaseball.com/donations or Wesley UMC Student Ministry at 825 N. Belair Rd., Evans, GA 30809
A few days before his passing Mr. Harter’s daughter posted these words from “The Dance”. They speak well to Mr. Harter’s outlook on life: “I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean. Whenever one door closes, I hope one more opens. Promise me that you’ll give faith a fighting chance. And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance. Dance . . . I hope you dance.”
To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Richard David Harter, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
From Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory
Diana Shihadeh Urbonowicz, 58
March 27, 1963 – March 06, 2022
It is with our deepest sorrow; we announce the passing of Diana Shihadeh Urbonowicz. Diana was born March 27th, 1963, and passed away March 6th 2022. Diane was preceded by her husband John Urbonowicz. She is survived by her two sons Jason and Jeremy. Diana is also survived by her sisters Sylvia Kassees, May Diab, Doris Springman and Nabila Babcock. Diana is survived by her brother David and preceded by her brothers Easa, Shihadeh and Mosa.
Diana lived her life with a dedication to her family and friends. Her sense of humor, generosity and fighting spirit will always be remembered. She was truly loved and will be missed dearly. May her memory be eternal and may she rest in peace.
The family invites you to celebrate her life in a funeral service which will be held between 11am-1pm on March 15, 2022 followed by a lunch service in honor of late Diane.
Seawind Funerai Home
735 S Fleming St,
Sebastian, FL 32958
Note: Sympathy cards can be forwarded to Nabila Babcock: 55O Perwinkle Dr. Sebastian, FL, 32958
To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Diana Aziz Urbonowicz, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
