Compass Pointe Funeral Services Obituaries Serving Central Florida 407.797.6200

John Joseph Ebert
October 18, 1948 – January 31, 2025

John Joseph Ebert was born on October 18, 1948, in Schenectady, New York. He passed away peacefully on January 31, 2025, with his daughters and hospice by his side.

In his early 20s, John moved to Orchard Park, NY, where he started his own siding business. He also became a volunteer firefighter, a role he cherished and spoke about for years. Fondly known as “Ebert” or “Chief” by friends, he took great pride in his work and community service.

In 1990, John relocated to Yulee, Florida, where he worked for GE Modular until his retirement. He became deeply involved in the Moose Club and was instrumental in founding the Yulee Florida Moose Lodge. His dedication spanned over 40 years, culminating in his service as President.

John had a passion for life—he loved dogs, good food, fishing, and being the ultimate social butterfly.

He is survived by his three daughters:

• Janet Kennedy and her sons, Taylor and Evan Kennedy
• Julie Lewis and her daughter, Nicole Simmons
• Jennifer Ebert-Jones and her husband, Ronn, along with their children, Kaelyn and Jaxsen Jones

John also leaves behind his brother, Alfred Ebert of Schenectady, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his siblings: Marilyn Hargraves, Joan Bertran, Ron Ebert, Claudette Ebert, and Carol Ebert.

John held a deep appreciation for the Foy family, who embraced him as one of their own. He wanted to acknowledge them with heartfelt gratitude.

A celebration of life will be held with family in Orchard Park at a later date.

Joan Rose Belnavis-Sewell

Born 4/7/1967 – Died 1/1/2025

Joan was born on April 7, 1967, in Troja, St. Catherine, Jamaica. She grew up in the Woodside District of St. Mary, Jamaica, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the love of her close-knit community. She attended Happy Grove High School in Portland, Jamaica. In 1987, Joan migrated to Orlando, Florida, to join her family, where she would go on to make her mark both personally and professionally. Joan was well known through the COG 7th day Church community through her dance ministry in West Palm Beach and Port St. Lucie. She pursued her education at Centura College, where she earned degrees in Paralegal Studies and as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). She returned to Jamaica to pioneer senior living care center and at the church alongside her husband. Joan

leaves behind her loving husband, Dr. Selvyn Sewell,  two daughters, Azalie Belnavis (Nick) and Sarah Michaela Sewell. Grandchildren: Zimayah and Elijah Ware. She is survived by her beloved parents, Olga and Phillip Thomas

Siblings—Merlene Sims (Robin), Lance Thomas (Monica), Floyd Thomas, Andrea Thomas, and Michael Thomas

Nieces—Rachel, Kaela, and Marleigh 

Nephews—Robert, Richard, Roger, Lance Jr., and Dakarai.

Joan’s faith was her foundation, and it was through her relationship with God that she found her strength. She dedicated her life to serving him. 

Services will be held Sunday, January 12, 2025 at Clermont Seventh Day Adventist Church

498 W Montrose Street 

Clermont, Fl 34711

Viewing 10 AM

Service 11 AM

Ronald Dale Heft, age 83 of Port Orange, Florida passed away on Thursday, January 2, 2025, the late son of Howard and Nellie (Snyder) Heft.

Ronnie, commonly known as “Hefty” attended Warren Hills High School.  After 25 years of service, Ronnie retired in 2004 as the Director for the Hampton Public Works Department.  During his employment Ronnie was instrumental in instituting the first recycling program in Hampton, Hunterdon County, NJ with other towns eventually following suit.  Ronnie was also instrumental in the development of the Hampton Borough Park which he took great pride in.  Ronnie also managed Hampton’s Community Service Program and served on the Board for Hampton’s Welfare Assistance. 

Ronnie was a Coach and President for the Hampton Recreation Association; in this role he not only coached the team but mentored many of the kids in town.  As one of the coaches for the little league, he was the the first to secure a female athlete on his team.  For many years, Ronnie was also an active member for both the Hampton Fire Department and Rescue Squad.  

Often Ronnie would be sporting a Nascar shirt as he was an avid follower attending races all over the country including Daytona Beach, FL; Pocono, PA; Talladega, AL and Dover, DL.  

Ronnie and his wife Virginia “Ginny” enjoyed taking cruises alone, with their grandchildren and many other family and friends.  Also, Ronnie took many Hunting and Fishing trips to Maine and New York with both his sons, Ron Jr., and Rod. 

On January 12, 1962, Ronnie married Virginia (Strunk) at the Presbyterian Parsonage in Hampton, NJ.  Together they lived in Hampton, NJ and for 18 years were snowbirds until they moved full time to Port Orange, Florida in 2021.

Ronnie was very proud of his family and would often talk about them to anyone who would listen and never hesitated to attend school and sporting events for his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews as well as many friends and will be missed by all. 

Ronnie is survived by many loving family members including his wife Virginia of 62 years, Port Orange, FL; son Rodney Heft and wife Kim Heft of Clinton, NJ; daughter Margaret Beavers and husband Sam Beavers of Hampton, NJ; brother Gary Heft and wife Janet Heft of Raubsville, PA.  Ronnie also had 4 grandchildren, Ceara (33), Corinne (32), Carly (30) and Jesse (28) and 3 great grandsons.  Preceded in death is a son, Ronald Dale Heft Jr., and five siblings, brothers Richard, Donald and Robert and sisters Shirley and Randy.

In lieu of flowers; donations may be made to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Volusia County, FL.

Upcoming Services:

Florida 

Celebration of Life

Friday, January 17, 2025, 11:00 a.m.

Daytona Beach Drive-In Christian Church

3140 South Atlantic Avenue 

Daytona Beach,  FL

New Jersey

Celebration of Life

Saturday, January 25, 2025, 11:00 a.m.

Round Valley United Methodist Church 

30 Main Street

Lebanon, NJ

Steven Parker, age 61, was born on October 19, 1963 in Muskegon, Michigan and passed away on December 8, 2024 in Florida.  

Steve is survived by his mother, Virginia Bowen Parker; his longtime partner Amy Allen; his three children, Crystal Little, Hazel (Delroy) Parker, and Steven Parker Jr; siblings Cynthia (John) Johnson and Michael (Char) Parker; grandchildren Ryan, Baylee, Seth, Darlene and Zoey.  He was preceded in death by his father, Walter Parker Jr, his siblings Angela and Walter Parker.

Steve had a good sense of humor and enjoyed being outside in Florida’s warm weather.  He liked animals, taking in strays whenever he could get away with it.  

Funeral arrangements will be shared when available.  

Sue Barnette Schulz (87) of Winter Garden, Florida, died peacefully on October 24, 2024 at her home, following a long illness.

Sue was born in 1937 in Buckhannon, WVa, to Raymond Layton Knight Barnette and Essie Alberta Gaiser. She grew up in Moundsville, WVa and graduated from Moundsville High School in 1956. Shortly after graduation, Sue moved to Rochester, NY, where she met and married Henry Junior Schulz. They set up house in Fairport, NY, lived briefly in Youngstown, OH, and finally settled with their two sons in central Florida in 1982.

Sue was a dedicated mother and homemaker. Through the years, she held an interesting variety of jobs, including police and emeregency services dispatcher, receptionist, telephone operator, and security guard. She was active for many years in the Windermere Union Church, UCC, in Florida. She was artistic and, like her father, she enjoyed oil and watercolor painting. Sue was an avid reader, especially enjoying mysteries, historic novels, and romantic adventures. She loved solving crossword puzzles, which were a special pleasure as she became less mobile in later years. Sue was known for her good nature, patience, kindness and compassion. She always saw the best in people, and kept her good humor, even when times were difficult.

Sue was predeceased by her parents, her husband, and her half-sister, Lois Mae Barnette McKee (Rochester, NY). She is survived by her two sons, Andrew Henry Schulz (Sugar Hill, GA) and Christopher Barnette Schulz (Winter Garden, FL), two grandchildren, Charissa Nicole Odermatt and Andrew Vaughan Schulz, two great-grandchildren, Takoma Vaughan Odermatt and Svea Faye Odermatt, her niece, Amanda McKee Gillum (Pennington, NJ), her nephew, Mark Harley McKee (Orlando, FL), several cousins, her loyal dog, Peggy, and many dear friends from her Windermere Union Church and the Hyde Park Village community in Winter Garden, FL.

Celebration of Sue’s life and a reception was held in Winter Garden, FL on Sunday, November 3.

Mr.Rosario passed away on September.28,2024

Mr. Rosario was an awesome person he love life it self. He loved taking care of people. He was a hard worker and enjoyed doing the best job possible. Mr.Rosario took all his jobs serious. He did his job to the best of his ability.

He loved his wife and children and grandkids and nephews and nieces and brothers and sisters cousins aunts and uncles. He was a family man that put his family first. He was a food service director and Sous Chef.Mr.Rosario enjoy making the finest meals for his family.

He loves making Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. He loved Halloween giving children candy and scaring the kids. He thought that was so much fun. His family is devastated by his loss. And he will be truly missed. His family loves him so much. His wife and children and grandchildren are devastated by his loss. I don’t know how we’re going to survive without him. Mr Rosario was my soulmate. And I was his soulmate. He talked about us being soulmates from the time we met. He will be truly missed. I love you so very much Mr.Rosario.

This picture is for Mr.Rosario as he wanted to go back to Japan before he passed away. May he rest in Peace. My Love.

February 2, 1961-September 13, 2024

Age 63, Orlando, Florida

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our brother, Michael Anthony Lippis, 63, of Orlando, on September 13, 2024. Michael is predeceased by his parents, who loved him unconditionally.  He is survived by his loving siblings and extended family.

Through his life’s journey, Michael’s youthful spirit of kindness left indelible memories with those he encountered. A funeral Mass and entombment will be private and scheduled for a future time. 

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Burt Newsome, born on March 19, 1947, and was called to eternal rest on September 23, 2024, in Orlando, Florida, United States. Burt was a husband, father, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Burt was born to Sterling Newsome and Hazel Tackett in Vergie, Kentucky. In 1973, he was married to, Colleen Newsome, and together they raised two sons, Michael Burt Newsome and Larry Wayne Newsome.

Burt worked as a Commercial Painter and retired in 2012. Prior to his career in painting, he proudly served in the Army as a Spec 5 Sargent in Company B, 2nd Battalion, 50th Infantry, 2nd Armored Division at Fort Hood, Texas for 2 years.

Outside of his professional life, Burt was a quiet man and enjoyed spending time and having laughs with his friends and neighbors. He enjoyed fishing, working on vehicles, and taking care of his home/lawn.

On September 23, 2024, Burt Newsome passed away due to complications of Alzheimer’s/Dementia. He will forever hold a special place in the hearts of his family and friends.

Joseph J. Brennan, Jr., from Montverde, Florida, died on June 29, 2024 at the Bedrock Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Orlando, Florida after a long illness. He was 80 years old. 

Joe was born in Patterson, New Jersey, the son of the late Joseph J. Brennan, Sr., and Ellen “Nell” Baxter Brennan. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Marilyn Belanger Brennan. He worked in law enforcement for many years, both for the New Jersey State Police, and was the former Chief of Police of Minneola, Florida for six years. He owned his own business, J&M Polygraph Science, Inc. until he retired. 

Joe was proud of his Irish heritage. He loved music, listening to it, and playing his guitar.  He had a wonderful singing voice, playing in a band in the 1950’s. He loved his dogs, and enjoyed spending time at the beach. 

Services will be private at a later date. In his memory, donations can be made to The Alzheimer’s Association or any animal rescue. 

Randal Dean Kirkwood passed away at the age of 68 in Orange County Florida.  Randal was married to Bonnie Lee Bernardo and was self employed at Kirkwood Designs, LLC as a Landscape Architect, designing many projects.

Randal is predeceased by his father, Norbert Kirkwood.  He is survived by his wife, Bonnie Lee Bernardo, mother Garda Lila Leonhardt;  step son, Zachary Daniel Bernardo, sister Vivian Elizebeth Perez and Jess Perez of Ft. Collins, CO; brother Theodore Jermone Leonhardt and his wife,  Miranda of Steamboat Springs, CO.; Nieces Amanda Garrish and family; Misty Van Winkle and family; Aunt Aggie Henderickson and husband Robert; Aunt Joyce Nelson; Uncle Ernest Nelson and numerous cousins in southern Minnesota.

He was loved dearly and he will be greatly missed.

Verona Vickie Jahnke 3/20/1939 – 4/21/2024

Vickie was loving, giving, and had a great sense of humor. She is greatly missed by her surviving 5 children, 15 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren with another on the way.

She lived for her children and always wanted the best for them. Her sense of humor was one of a kind. She loved to laugh and make others laugh. She would always say “don’t ever lose your sense of humor! It releases endorphins which heals your body.” In good times and bad times, she always looked for the silver lining in every situation. She is with the Lord now and no longer in pain. Her legacy will live on through us, and we promise to live our lives with humor and always look for the silver lining.

Rest easy Mom, we’ll take it from here. Give Grandma, Steve, Ron, Randy, and Stevie big hugs from us! We know they were happy to see you. We love you, and we miss you dearly. 

Martin Francis Kuemmeth, better known as Marty to loved ones, passed away in his home in Sanford, Florida on May 25, 2024. Born in Chicago Illinois on January 14 1962, Marty will be remembered as a father, brother, friend, and veteran.

Marty was first in the 3rd recon battalion, then became an embassy guard in Burma, and finished as a sergeant in the infantry before being honorably discharged, and he is known for his bravery, strength, and his work ethic.

He is survived by his daughter, Charlotte (23) of New Hampshire, and his daughter, Alissa (19) of New York, his 8 siblings: Pete Kuemmeth, Michael Kuemmeth, Steve (Duke) Kuemmeth, Colette (Joey) Kuemmeth, Mary Ellen Blankenship, Susan Kuemmeth, Barbara Long, and Regina Wimmer. 

Marty had a passion for the outdoors and the water, and in his glory days enjoyed spending time fishing, golfing, grilling with his daughters and bringing them to the lake or beach, running in every road race he could, catching up with his brothers and his good friend, Kevin, and visiting the East Coast, especially the beaches of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.

A burial service will be held at a future date at the Bourne National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Stop Soldier Suicide nonprofit.  

Darrell Lee Dentino, 46 yrs old of Orlando Florida, suddenly went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday April 18th.

Darrell was born in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and resided in Greenville South Carolina for most of his childhood. Darrell was the avid golfer and was known by name on all the top golf courses in Orlando. He was a fitness buff in the gym four days a week. He loved football and his Pittsburgh Steelers but most of all Darrell was known for his love and relationship with Jesus Christ. He worked in church as sound engineer also with youth groups and sidewalk ministries. Darrell fiercely loved his family and friends.

He is survived by his parents David L Dentino (Miriam) his mother Deborah L Baker (Thomas) His siblings David L Dentino Junior (Melody) Tallahassee Florida Dawn Doty (John) of South Carolina Derrick Dentino (Stephanie) of South Carolina Daniel Dentino(Ashley) of Anderson South Carolina stepbrother Eric Sanchez of Anderson South Carolina stepbrother Joey Sanchez (MK) of South Carolina numerous nephews and nieces and one great niece ranging in ages from 30 to one month.

The family will not be receiving any flowers or in lieu of contributions, you may make a contribution to your favorite charity.

Family and friends will be receiving at his celebration of life service on Saturday, May 11 at Marathon church 315 Roe Road Greenville, SC 29611

We would like to take this time to remember Mildred Perez Rivera (Millie, Grandmama Joe, GG, GGma, Gumbi) who passed away on April 8th, 2024 in St. Cloud, Florida. Mildred was born on May 4th, 1949 in New York City, New York to Antonia and Juan Perez.

She grew up with four sisters and a brother: Mary, Miriam, Nancy, Nilda, and Juan Perez Jr. She remained close with her siblings throughout the years. She then married Confessor (Tony) Rivera on February 3rd, 1968. They were married for 55 years until Confessor’s passing on September 19th, 2015.

She helped raise all six of her grandchildren: Jessica, Michael, Marissa, Jonathan, Marc, and Matthew. Because of this, her house felt like a second home to them. Even long after they needed to be looked after, her grandchildren would often visit her, have dinners, or spend the night. Nothing felt quite like snuggling up like “snow bunnies” and watching movies. She was a kind soul with a heart of gold. She was always there with a hug and a warm meal. She loved nothing more than to be surrounded by her loved ones, and her loved ones loved
nothing more than to be around her.

Despite her life struggles, she always had an abundance of love to give to both people and her many pets. No matter how dark and scary the world became, she always felt like a safe harbor from the storms of life. She was a lot of things to a lot of people, but for those who remained close to her, she was everything. She will be irrevocably and unceasingly missed. Her legacy of love, laughter, made-up words, family dinners, and kindness will live on within her family.

Mildred is survived by her siblings (Mary Medina, Nancy Gonzalez, Nilda Perez, Juan Perez Jr.), her children (Anthony Rivera, Jeannette Rivera Alexander), her grandchildren (Jessica Rivera-Bates, Michael Alexander, Marissa Alexander, Jonathan Rivera, Marc Rivera, Matthew Alexander), and her great-grandchildren (Julian, Dominic, Penelope, Theodore Bates).

A celebration of life will be held for Mildred on May 4th, 2024 for her family and friends.

Edward M. Pelshaw passed away on March 19th, 2024 at the age of 65 after a courageous and long battle with cancer.

He was surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest and keeping a positive outlook on life, no matter how hard times will become. 

Ed was a proud Popster to three children: Eric, Nadja and Michelle. Ed was preceded by his mother Barbara and sister Donna.

He is survived by his siblings Richard, Rebecca, Robert, Barbara and Laura. 

Ed spent 20 years as an Army officer, transitioned to a passionate business professional, and then  turned into a relaxed and joyful retiree.

In retirement, he spent his days traveling the world and enjoying the most beautiful beach sunsets the planet has to offer.

His cheerful attitude towards life and comforting smile will be missed, as well as his wise advice that always wound up being correct. 

We know Ed is looking down upon us riding high in heaven on his Harley Davidson, all while giving us energy and warmth in our hearts. 

In order to allow all friends and family to say their goodbyes to Ed, we will be holding a memorial service within the upcoming months. The family will reach out and make upcoming memorial plans known.

Antonio (Tony) Vito Borotto passed away Monday, February 19, 2024, at his home in Orlando, Florida. He was 88 years old. Born in Brooklyn, New York, he resided in New York until moving to Dumont, New Jersey and later Orlando, Florida in his retirement. He was a good man, a man of faith and high integrity. He was a devoted husband, father, and son.

The son of Dominick and Concetta, he attended Brooklyn Technical High School and later New York University College of Engineering, graduating with a Master of Science in Aeronautics and Astronautics.

Tony began his diverse career working with aircraft during his Air Force military service, where he was assigned to the Strategic Air Command’s 4060th Air Refueling Wing. He achieved the rank of Aircraft Maintenance Officer (Captain).

After leaving the Air Force, Tony worked as a Specialist Engineer for American Airlines. He then moved to System Development Corporation as a senior systems analyst. He founded Flight Operations Planning Corporation (FLIOP) and was later hired as Director of Administration and Operations for Cybermatics Incorporated. Tony led sales and operations at New York Business Computers based in Manhattan.

Captain Tony’s favorite location was above the clouds. He enjoyed recreational flying and worked as a professional pilot through Teterboro Airport and for Bar Harbor Airways, among others. He taught ground school education in VFR, instrument, commercial pilot instruction, and was accomplished author in aeronautics.

Tony was a passionate New York Yankees fan even when they were not winning. He enjoyed photography and was an avid golfer and built custom-fitted golf clubs for friends and family. Tony was a good friend to many and a great friend to anyone who loved to fly! Even later in life as a “Perched Pelican” as he called himself, he managed to watch the planes from his back porch as a constant reminder of his true love in this life.

Tony met Verna June Boyer, devoted wife of 64 years, in Bangor, Maine, when he was stationed at Dow Air Force Base, and June was in nursing school. They continued to enjoy summers on Long Pond with their children and DownEast friends.

His favorite author was Antoine de Saint-Exupery, who wrote, “It is such a mysterious place, the land of tears.”

Tony will be missed by all who loved him. We will find you beyond the horizon with blue skies forever. He is survived by his wife Verna June Borotto, his daughters Tina Koenig and Donna Borotto, and his son Dominic Borotto, as well as four grandchildren, Alex, Jason, Tyler, and Julia.

Theodore Edward Zeidler, 76 passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Orlando, Fl.

Zeidler was born in Le Clair, Iowa June 24,1947 to Dorothy June Woodruff Zeidler and John Edward Zeidler.  He served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged.  His love for the Iowa Hawkeyes started at birth.  He continued his interest at the University of Iowa where he wrestled.  He had a long time love and career for John Deere.  He retired from Harvester Works (John Deere) after engineering for them 31 years.  Ted loves any Hawkeye sport and singing karaoke in a crowded bar.

Zeidlers surviving family members include daughters Andrea Napier and Kristen Zgonis.  Ex wife Nancy Zeidler.  Sister Cheryl (Miller) Jackson.  Grandchildren Brett Zeidler, Labrini and Leanna Zgonis.  Niece Kim (Jackson) Pawlowski and nephew Scott Jackson.  Friends and companions Jamie Mott and her daughter Jillian Smith.

In order to honor Teds memory, donations can be made to University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.  You can find sports fans waiving to the children during hawkeye games.

Theresa Maria Grazette passed away on Saturday, February 10th, 2024 at the age of 51. She was born on the island of Grenada, West Indies, and moved to the US as a young adult, fueled by a desire to further her education and provide a better life for herself and her family. She was an accomplished Occupational Therapist in the Orlando, Florida area who was loved by her patients and admired by her peers. She was a dedicated mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend.

Theresa loved the beach, was an avid reader, enjoyed music, and loved to dance. She loved life and lived unapologetically, on her own terms. She will be fondly remembered for her faith in God, her strength, resilience, compassion, and quick witted sense of humor. 

She is survived by her children Kareem Charles, Kevin Charles, and Kendel Charles, and her mother Veronica Francis.

Other relatives and friends include :

Tarlie Francis, Alma Francis, Carlye Francis,  Christine Francis, Natarlie Criswick, Abigail Francis, Chelsea Millien, Semira Francis, William Gronvold, Derrick Anderson, Irene, Ann Francis, Terrence Francis, Antonia Awanchuku, Amonique Awanchuck, Rose Victory, Tom Bedeau, Elizabeth Bedeau, Stephen Bedeau, Johanna Francis, Paul Victory, Paula Victory, Steven Thomas, Dale Hood Vesprey, Richie, Debbie, Antonia Joseph, Mark Bedeau, Linch Bedeau, Jacob Coy, Blossom, Jessie Bedeau, Jayden, Alister, Abriana, Tina, Debora, loyal K9 companion Sadie, relatives and friends in Grenada, St. Thomas, USA and UK. 

Memorial service for Theresa Grazette(Francis)  will take place on Tuesday, February 20th at Compass Pointe Funeral Home, 743 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando FL 32805

Visitation will begin at 2pm with service to follow at 3pm.