Excel 2003 Why is edit/replace now not working to delete middle initials from names?

I have numerous spreadsheets with all types of data that I use to build databases in Access. As many of you know with Access everything (ex. Names) has to match perfectly in order for them to run. Some names have middle initials and I have been able to get rid of these in the past with edit/replace for example (Smith, John M.) I would Find "?." and Replace with "", and for names like (White, Betty F) I believe in the past I did Find " ? " and Replace with " " and it would work. I provided an example below can someone help me clarify what I am doing wrong or if I am remembering correctly the right find/replace format. Thank you for any help in advance!