H.O. Southward

H.O. Southward, born on August 23, 1940, in Iuka, Mississippi, passed away on December 24, 2025, at Tishomingo Manor Nursing Home. He lived a life full of hard work, dedication, and love for his family and community.

For 35 years, H.O. worked at Reynolds Aluminum, where he also served as the Union Steward, representing his fellow workers with pride. Outside of his career, he had a passion for building houses and spent many years as a farrier, a trade he enjoyed immensely. H.O. was known for his woodworking skills and often found joy in spending time with his grandson. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in his community who needed help, embodying a spirit of generosity and kindness.

H.O. was proud to be a charter member of the Midway Fire Department and was a dedicated member of Paradise Methodist Church. His love for his family was evident in everything he did.

He is survived by his children, Bryan Southward (Wanda), Jason Southward (Linda Jo), and Charles Ezell (Debbie); his grandchildren, Brayden Southward, Artis Ezell (Brittney), and Brandon Ezell (Madison); and his great-grandchildren, Bryleigh and Kaiden Ezell. H.O. also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews who cherished him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Southward; his parents, Herbert and Ora Southward; his sister, Earlene Browning; brother-in-laws, James Browning, Ronnie Edmondson, and Donnie Edmondson; and his mother-in-law, Jewel Edmondson.

Cutshall Funeral Home in Iuka, MS is entrusted with the arrangements. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Cutshall Funeral Home in Iuka, MS. The funeral service will take place immediately following the visitation, starting at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow in Rutledge Salem Cemetery. Pallbearers include Matthew Bates, Alexander Bates, Artis Ezell, Brandon Ezell, Channing Walker, Caleb Walker, Brayden Southward, and Jason Southward. Honorary pallbearers include Charles Ezell, Bryan Southward, Ethan Edmondson, Shannon Edmondson, Casey Kirk, and Jeremy Reece. H.O. Southward will be remembered for his commitment to his family and community, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to Paradise Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, Rutledge Salem Cemetery Fund, or the Midway Volunteer Fire Department.