OBITUARIES
HAMILTON COUNTY
Thomas Brannon
Thomas Edwin Brannon, 72, of Graysville, Tenn., passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2015, in a local hospital.
He was formerly of Chattanooga Valley, Ga., but had made his home in Graysville for the last four years. He was a U. S. Army veteran and was retired from Texaco Oil Co. where he served as a Terminal Supervisor having lived in Texas, Mississippi and lastly Tennessee. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing and hunting. He was of the Seventh-day Adventist faith.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Edwin and Rosa Lee Mathis Brannon; and sister, Cheryl Brannon Cooper.
Survivors include his wife of 37 years, Sandra Kay Scoggins Brannon; sons, Dwight Edwin Brannon, Patrick Brannon and Billy Brannon; granddaughter, LeAnn Brannon; and several nieces and nephews.
Condolences may be sent to www. lane- southcrestchapel.com.
Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2015, at Estell Cemetery in Chickamauga, Ga. Military honors will be observed at this time.
The family will receive friends today, April 16, 2015, from 3 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the funeral home.
Arrangements by the South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory located at the end of Historic Missionary Ridge, Rossville.
Mary Ann Burns
Mary Ann Burns, 82, died on April 14, 2015, in Chattanooga.
Mary Ann was a longtime member of Oakwood Baptist Church ( Chattanooga) and had retired from Parkridge Hospital.
She was predeceased by her husband, Douglas C. Burns; parents, Joe and Lena Turk; and sisters, Boots Cofer and Betty Morgan.
Mary Ann is survived by three daughters, Rebecca (John) Hooper, Chattanooga, Liz Burns and Carla Silas, both of Virginia; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and her brother, Larry J. Turk.
Graveside services will be at 12:30 p.m. Friday, April 17, at Chattanooga National Cemetery with the Rev. Ken Clark officiating. The family will be meeting at 12:15 p.m. on Friday at Chattanooga National Cemetery office for the service.
Memorial donations can be made to Hospice of Chattanooga, 4411 Oakwood Drive, Chattanooga, TN 37416.
Visit www.heritagechattanooga.com to share words of comfort to the family.
Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. today, April 16, at Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 East Brainerd Road.
Ethelene Cook
Ethelene Kendrick Cook, 88, of Chattanooga, passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2015. Ethelene was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother. Her life was totally focused on caring for her family and others. Ethelene was a true southern lady. Ethelene was preceded in death by her husband, General H. Cook.
Ethelene is survived by her children, Falecia Darlene Horne and husband, Chuck, and Terry Cook and wife, Caroline; grandchildren, Terry ( Kiwi) Jr. and Abbie Cook, Brad ( Kristin) Smith, all of Chattanooga and Bryan (Erin) Smith, of Denver, Colo.; great- grandchildren, Kaylie Cook and Larkin Smith; siblings Opal Walker and WayDean Smith; many nieces and nephews.
The family has asked that memorial contributions be made in Ethelene’s name to Hearth Hospice, 1800A Rossville Ave., Suite 7, Chattanooga, TN 37408, or to the Alzheimer’s Association, 7625 Hamilton Park Drive, Suite 8, Chattanooga, TN 37421.
The family will receive friends from noon-1: 30 p. m. today, April 16, 2015, at Chattanooga Funeral Home, North Chapel.
Funeral service for Ethelene will be conducted at 1:30 p. m. today, April 16, in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Terry Shannon officiating.
Interment to follow in Hamilton Memorial Gardens.
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson.
Charles Cronan
Charles V. Cronan, 79, of Soddy- Daisy, died Tuesday, April 14, 2015, at his home.
He was born April 2, 1936 in Etowah, Tenn., to the late James and Louella Cronan. He was retired from the Electric Power Board.
He was preceded in death by sisters, Betty Melton and Alma Pritchard. Mr. Cronan was a member of the Etowah Masonic Lodge #653 F&AM.
Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Elizabeth Cronan, of Soddy- Daisy; daughters, Cynthia (Gregg) Hawkins, of South Pittsburg, Tenn., and Amanda Cronan, of Hixson; sisters, Kathryn Shelton, of Etowah, Tenn., and Thelma Scott, of Hanceville, Ala.; several nieces and nephews.
Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, April 17, in Hensley Cemetery with Mr. Ernie Ricketts officiating and Masonic graveside rites.
The family will receive friends at the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home from 4-7 p.m. today.
The family would like to especially thank Hospice of Chattanooga and all his caregivers for their kindness and care.
Memorial donations may be made to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, 2900 Rocky Point Dr., Tampa, FL 33607 or shirnershospitalsforchildren.org.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com.
Matilda Elder
Matilda Mae Elder went home to be with the Lord Monday, April 6, 2015. She was born on Feb. 13, 1928. in Chattanooga to the union of John E. and Mary Milligan. She was education in the Chattanooga school system and a graduate of Howard High School.
A faithful member of St. Elmo Missionary Baptist Church. She retired from White Star Laundry and as a family housekeeper.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mary Milligan; husband, Norma Elder; one son, McDonald Milligan; two brothers, John Henry Jr. and James E. Milligan; three sisters, Elizabeth Merritt, Constance Ross and Alice Holland.
She leaves to cherish her precious memories two daughters, Joyce ( Charles) Williams, Norma ( Claude) Alexander; three sons, David J. Milligan, Herbert (Prince) Elder, all of Chattanooga and Robert ( Vernon) Elder, Fort Worth, Va.; 12 grandchildren, 26 great- grandchildren; and four great- great- grandchildren; one sister, Daisy Palmer, Columbia, Ohio; one sister-in-law, Madeline Milligan; two favorite grandchildren, Charles Milligan and Kandra Douglas; a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.
Funeral Services will be held on Friday, April 17, at noon at St. Elmo Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Billy E. Church, officiating.
Interment in Highland Cemetery.
The body will lie in state after noon today at John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., 622-9995.
Josephine Gomez
Josephine Dee Dee Gomez Alterman, of Chattanooga, passed away on Monday, April 13, 2015.
Dee Dee was a longtime resident of the Chattanooga area. During her life she was known “The Voice That Ministers” singing in over 100 churches in the Chattanooga area.
Dee Dee is survived by her three children, Chris Gomez and wife Michelle, Kimberly Saldana and Christina Crackel; grandchildren, Alexandra and Giavana Saldana and Aaron Crackel; siblings, Joe Annichino and wife Karen and Debbie Behling and husband Peter; several nieces and nephews.
There will be no visitation at the funeral home.
A celebration of life service for Dee Dee will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, at Hamilton Memorial Gardens, Chapel of Devotion with Don Hanson presiding.
Immediately after the service, the family asks that you join us for a celebration of her life. We are having an Italian dinner at a family owned store, The Gypsy Picker, 3701 Hixson Pike, Hixson, TN 37343.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com.
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson.
Timothy Hampton
Timothy Hampton, 59, passed away on April 14, 2015 at a local hospital.
Arrangements by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Avenue, 622-9995.
Tracy Hunter
Tracy L. Hunter, 44, passed away on April 9, 2015, at a local hospital.
He was a graduate of Kirkman High school class of 1988. He was formerly employed at McKee Bakery and was owner and operator of Hunter’s Trucking Company. He also served in the U.S. Navy and reserves.
He was preceded in death by his father, Charlie Franklin; uncle, Earl Alfred Love; brothers-in-law, Kaiser Taylor and Larry Hardy.
Survivors include his loving and devoted wife, Adriane Hunter; son, Tracy Hunter, Jr.; mother, Earlene Hunter; stepchildren, Andrea Green, Sherelle Byrd, Brandon Byrd and Alliyah Byrd, DeNyshia Brooks, Dominque Gant; five grandchildren; sisters and brothers, Reba Hunter, Deidria Hardy, Debbie ( Elroy) Freeman, Kathy Taylor, Willie James Hunter, Jr., Anthony Hunter, Andre Hunter, Jeffrey Hunter and Charles Hunter; mother- in- law, Geraldine Green; brothers and sisters-in-law, Homer (Kathy), Michael (Kim), Gerald, William (Angela), Kurt (Valerie), Robert, and Timothy Green, Julia Ford, Arnella Lackey and Alisa (Alfonzo) Allen; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 17, 2015 at Orchard Park SDA Church with Pastor Martin Lister and others officiating.
Interment in Forest Hills Cemetery.
The body will lie in state after noon today at John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Avenue, 622-9995.
Gilbert Jackson
Gilbert Lee Jackson, 74, of Soddy-Daisy, passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2015.
He was born June 1, 1940 to the late Luther H. and Mary Elois Jackson of Falling Water.
He was employed with Chattanooga Glass until the closing of the plant where he then transferred to Anchor Glass in Winchester, Indiana and retired after an additional 7.5 years. He loved playing on the Chattanooga Glass softball team. He was a loving husband, daddy, hapaw and great hapaw.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Luther H. and Mary Elois Jackson; infant sister, Roberta Jackson; and brother, James L Jackson.
Survivors include his loving wife of 53 years, Sharon Jackson; son, Eddie Jackson ( Michelle); daughter Lisa Thrasher (Ronald); grandchildren, Sharon McCorvie (Matt), Matthew Thrasher, Ashley Harris, Shannon Jackson and Nathan Jackson; great-grandchildren, Natalie McCorvie, Rylee McCorvie, Amelia Monroe, Thomas Thrasher, Andrew Thrasher, Gilbert Thrasher, Michael Dallas McCauley, Isabelle Simone and Gabriel Thompson; sisters, Genevieve Chastain ( Marvin), Marilyn Harrison (Ken); brother, Don Jackson (Bobbie Jean).
The funeral service will be 1 p.m. Friday, April 17, 2015, at Williamson & Sons Funeral Home chapel with Pastor Tommy Taylor officiating.
Interment will follow in McBrien-Simpson Cemetery. Eddie Jackson, Ronald Thrasher, Matthew Thrasher, Matt McCorvie, Lee Wormsley and Brandon Lively will serve as pallbearers.
Visitation is 2 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home.
The family would like to give a special thank you to the Soddy- Daisy Police Department for providing special help to Gilbert in his time of need as well as Hospice of Chattanooga.
Condolences and memories can be shared at www.williamsonandsons.com.
Arrangements are by Williamson and Sons Funeral Home, 8852 Dayton Pike, Soddy-Daisy, TN 37379.
Clarence Johnson Sr.
Clarence Johnson Sr., 76, of Chattanooga, passed away Friday, April 10, 2015, at his residence.
Graveside service will be today at 1 p. m. in Hamilton Memorial Gardens with Pastor Ronald Gilbert as the eulogist.
Arrangements are by Taylor Funeral Home of Chattanooga Inc.
Lynda Lanham
Lynda Joyce Lanham passed away in the hospital on April 13, 2015, at the young age of 68 years old.
Lynda was born on March 11, 1947, to John and Ruth Lanham, had a brother Johnny and was a loving mother of Kary, Robin and Jay, grandmother to Reagan, Alexander, Jordan and Kary, and great-grandmother of Jaxson.
Lynda was a hairstylist who owned salons in Chattanooga, and operated the long- time Chattanooga Christian Bookstore Lanham’s Bible Bookshop with her parents.
She was a member at Calvary Bible Church where her father John Lanham was the long-time pastor and remains Pastor Emeritus in perpetuity. She loved her church family and always has the fondest memories of Calvary.
Lynda was a golfer who played with her family and friend, and really enjoyed the fellowship and camaraderie of her Chattanooga Ladies golf group. In her younger days she was known for playing in her bare feet, said she could ‘feel the shot“that way. Her presence and laughter and companionship on the course will be missed and cherished by those who played with her.
In lieu of a traditional funeral service, Lynda wanted folks to be happy and enjoy a celebration of her life and share fond memories of her that makes us smile along with the tears.
The celebration of Lynda’s life will be at Calvary Bible Church on Sunday, April 19, at 11 a.m.
Arrangements are by Hamilton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 4506 Hixson Pike, Hixson, TN 37343. 423-531-3975.
Agnes Mitchell
Agnes Meredith Tinker Mitchell, 91, of Chattanooga passed away on Tuesday, April 14 , 2015. Agnes retired from Standard Coosa Thatcher and Piccadilly Cafeteria.
Agnes was preceded in death by pa r - ents, James Henry and Ida Lee Tinker; daughter, Marleita Renee Milkovich; grandson, Michael Shay Milkovich; brothers, Don, France, Lindy, Edward “Buddy” and Howard “Corky” Tinker; sister, Lucille Tinker Toth.
Agnes is survived by her husband of 68 years, Miles Newt Mitchell; sister, Helen Tinker McClendon; special niece and caregiver, Crystal McClendon Gibby.
The family will receive friends on Friday, April 17, 2015, from 4-8 p.m. at Chattanooga Funeral Home, North Chapel, and on Saturday from 10 a.m. until time of service.
Funeral service will be conducted at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2015, in the funeral home chapel.
Entombment to follow in Hamilton Memorial Gardens.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com.
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson.
Elsie Nason
Elsie Marie Stubbs Nason, 94, of Signal Mountain, died April 14, 2015. She was born May 9, 1920, in Utica, Miss., to the late Jesse Aron and Katherine McBride Stubbs. She was preceded in death by her husband, William L. Nason Sr.; sisters, Helenelise Smith, Sybil Simmons and Marjorie Hammond.
She was a 1943 graduate of Mississippi Delta State Teacher College and of Mississippi University of Women in 1944. Mrs. Nason started teaching at Starkville, Miss., where she taught for 2 years and she taught 30 years in Hamilton county teaching at Signal Mountain Grammar School and Thrasher Elementary School. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma and ACEI (Association for Childhood Education International). She worked many years with the Signal Mountain Lion’s Club with their Fourth of July Celebration and the Labor Day Bar-b-que.
Mrs. Nason was a member of Signal Mountain Baptist Church where she played the piano and organ for many years, she also worked in the Beginner Department.
Survivors include three sons, William (Vickie)Nason, David ( Nancy) Nason and Douglas Nason; granddaughter, Angela Sullivan; three great-grandchildren, Avery Sullivan, Aaron Sullivan and Elyse Sullivan; sister, Rachel Tucker.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 18, 2015, at 2 p.m. in the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home with Dr. Steven Wright officiating.
Interment will follow in Hamilton Memorial Gardens.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 4-7 Friday evening.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 4825 Trousdale Dr., Ste 220 Nashville, TN 37220.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthcahpel.com.
Graham Sisson
Graham Lansford Sisson died April 7, 2015, in Ringgold, Ga. He was born May 1, 1930 in Chattanooga.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Janis P. Sisson; his parents, Ottis Graham Lansford and Ione Painter Sisson Kernachan; stepfather, James Sisson; and his daughter, Deidre Sisson Etheridge.
He and his family previously resided in Chattanooga, Sheffield, Ala., Rome, Ga., Cleveland Heights, Ohio, Fairlawn, N.J., and San Jose, Calif.
He attended the Florence Teacher’s College in Florence, Ala., before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force and serving in the Korean War. He rose to Captain in the U.S. Air Force Reserves. He was an avid Civil War buff. His early work accomplishments included developing the early VCRs and television cable systems. His favorite past times included growing tomatoes; playing with his cats and riding the back roads of Catoosa County, visiting the old homesteads and graves of his relatives, the Graham’s and Lansford’s.
He is survived by his children, Melissa Sisson (Carol Hayes), Kira Sisson Williams (Gene), Angela Sisson (John) Bowman, Sandra Sisson Hightower (Greg), Graham Sisson Jr. (Victoria), Emry Sisson (Amy), and Chuck Sisson (Mary). He is survived by his grandchildren, Kate Williams, Rachel Williams-Clark (Taylor), Holly Williams, Ryan Sullivan, Hollin Williams, Christopher Hightower, Emma Sisson, Graham Sisson, Jack Sisson, Charlie Sisson, Bella Sisson, Jennifer Etheridge and Matthew Etheridge; and great-granddaughter Sophie Neilson.
We would like to thank the caregivers over the last few months for their compassion and service: Tammy Ashley, Saundra Smith, Ivey Bonner, Susan Waller and Rebecca Johnson.
There will be a graveside service with interment at Chattanooga National Cemetery in Chattanooga, on April 17, 2015, at 2:30 p.m.
Donations may be made to Catoosa County Animal Shelter, 101 Allmond Trail, Ringgold, GA 30736.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com.
Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.
Bettye Taylor
Bettye Fern Brooks Taylor, 83, of Signal Mountain, died Tuesday, April 14, 2015, at Alexian Village under hospice care. Her last weeks were spent with her children and loved ones.
Bettye Fern was born May 28, 1931 in Chattanooga, the daughter of Ela and Millard Brooks. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 55 years, William Lee Taylor, Junior; and her daughter, Judith Lynn Taylor.
She is survived by her remaining children, William Lee Taylor III, of Nashville, Tenn., Kimberly Taylor Powell (John), of Atlanta, Ga.; Brooks Edward Taylor (Pilar), of Birmingham, Ala.; and Brent Allan Taylor (Betsy) of Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.; her eight grandchildren, Brooks Edward Taylor, Junior (Jessica); Alexander Russell Taylor (Emily); Edith Greer Taylor; Clare Dameron Taylor; Chase Alexander Pendleton Powell; Julia Taylor Powell Payares (Manuel); Grace Elizabeth Taylor and Elise Chapin Taylor.
Bettye was a lifelong resident of Chattanooga and for the last 15 years Signal Mountain. She attended Chattanooga public schools including City High School and the University of Chattanooga (University of Tennessee in Chattanooga. While she was at UC she was a member of Chi Omega. Her final year she became reacquainted with the love of her life (they actually met in elementary school), Bill Taylor. After a whirlwind romance Bettye and Bill married and soon travelled to Japan where Bill served in the Army. They then moved to Knoxville for Bill to attend law school before settling in Chattanooga where she and Bill raised their five children. Throughout Bettye’s life she was involved in the community. Her involvement included being President of her sorority, Chi Omega, at the University of Chattanooga and continued throughout her life with the difference she made in the lives of so many people in Chattanooga and throughout the Southeast. She spent many nights serving on the board of the Chattanooga Area Literacy Movement (now READ) and teaching many to read and write. She and her late husband, Bill, were founders of the Scenic Land School (now Skyuka Hall) which still educates many young Chattanoogans with learning differences. She also served on the board of First Things First, an organization dedicated to strengthening families. She was awarded their Family Legacy Award in 2007. She was known throughout the Southeastern U.S. for her roles in Presbyterians For Renewal, Outreach Foundation, and as a lay leader for numerous Lay Renewal Retreats. She served as an Elder in the Signal Mountain Presbyterian Church, but perhaps will be always be in the hearts and minds of others for her leadership role as Sunday School teacher, small group Bible study leader, Precept leader, and mentor to young couples along with her beloved Bill. So many friends, students, and families will have a special place for Bettye in their hearts for the devotion she showed during her years at Rivermont Presbyterian and later at Signal Mountain Presbyterian Churches. Her family and friends will remember her for her wisdom, laughter and guidance and will be missed by many that knew and loved her. She was a passionate follower of Christ and a tireless educator of his teachings.
On Friday, April 17, 2015 there will be a private graveside service and a memorial service at 1:30 p.m. at Signal Mountain Presbyterian Church followed by visitation with the family immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that gifts be made to the Judy Taylor Award Fund presented by Skyuka Hall (formerly Scenic Land School) and to Signal Mountain Presbyterian Church.
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com.
Taylor Thomas
Michael Taylor Thomas, 23, passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2015, at his home.
A lifetime resident of the area, he attended Soddy-Daisy High School.
Known to many as “T-Bone”, he was active in sports, playing baseball and football at the Middle Valley Recreation Center. He was also active with the Soddy-Daisy Kids Club Wrestling.
Survivors include his parents, Eric and Kristy Knox; grandparents, Billy and Brenda Vineyard, who went above and beyond to make sure Taylor knew he was loved and would forever be cared for, as well as Jim and Joann Knox; siblings, Hayden Thomas, Cameron and Abby Knox; several loving cousins, aunts, and uncles.
A celebration of his life will be held at noon on Saturday, April 18, 2015, at Melville Baptist Church, 9067 Daisy Dallas Road, Soddy-Daisy, TN 37379.
The family will gather with friends at the church on Friday evening from 6-9 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to Melville Baptist church.
Arrangements are by Hamilton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 4506 Hixson Pike, Hixson, TN 37343.
James Watkins
James Oneal Watkins, 57, passed away on April 11, 2015, at a healthcare facility.
He was formerly employed at Lee Smith.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Lillian Watkins; son, Eric Watkins; uncles, Richard Watkins and Willie Watkins; aunt, Dorothy Watkins Ballard.
Survivors include his children, Anthony, LaToya, James “Man Man” and Jahmyah O. Watkins; eight grandchildren; father, Edward Watkins; siblings, Thomas Watkins and Dora Knight, all of Chattanooga; stepsiblings, Vernita Haney and Ellen Ruth Fuqua,; aunt and uncles, Dorothy Mae Watkins, Hayward Watkins, Ben Thomas Watkins, Leo Watkins, Benford Watkins; a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2015, in Chapel.
Interment in Highland Cemetery.
The body will lie in state after noon today and the family will receive friends from 7–8 p.m. at John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., 6229995.
Dennis Weyers II
Dennis L. Weyers II, 48, of Signal Mountain, passed away Friday, April 10, 2015.
He was born in Memphis, Tenn., Sept. 2, 1966, and was of the Catholic faith.
Dennis is survived by his mother, Suzanne Pullman Strauss, of Signal Mountain; daughter, Jackie Jones, of Senoia, Ga.; brother, Richard Stott Weyers (Sharon), of Morris, Minn.; grandmother, Bettye Pullman, of Chattanooga; aunt, Andrea Pullman Goldman (Jonathan), of Boulder City, Colo.; and nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Department 142, Memphis, TN 38148.
Arrangements are by Cremation Center of Chattanooga. 432-362-5999.
TENNESSEE
Avery Collins
RICEVILLE — Avery Aaron Collins, 21, died Monday, April 13, 2015, at Starr Regional Medical Center.
Funeral 7 p. m. today at Mount Harmony Baptist Church #2 Riceville.
Burial 11 a.m. Friday at Hillcrest Cemetery, Cleveland.
Visitation 4-7 p.m. today at the church.
Arrangements by Ziegler Funeral Home, Athens.
Virgie Combs
CLEVELAND — Virgie Combs, 78, died Tuesday, April 14, 2015.
Survivors: daughter, Ginger Combs; son, Keith Combs; granddaughter, Whitney Combs; and several brothers and sisters.
The funeral is 2 p.m. Friday at Fike Funeral Home with visitation from noon-2 p.m. prior to the service.
Please visit: fikefh.com.
Vivian Coxey
DAYTON — Vivian Price Coxey, 91, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, April 13, 2015.
Vivian was a lifelong resident of Dayton, she was born on Aug. 21, 1923 to the late Manuel and Sue Price. She was a retired librarian of the city of Dayton Library where she shared her love of reading for more than 20 years. She also was employed for several years at Robinson Manufacturing Co. Vivian was a gifted seamstress who loved quilting and traveling. She was a dedicated member of the Cranmore Cove Baptist Church and a former member of the First Baptist Church of Graysville. A graduate of the 1942 class of Rhea Central High School, Vivian was a former officer and member of that school’s Golden Grads Committee, which she dearly loved.
She was preceded in death by brother, Floyd Price; and her half brothers, James and John Hood.
She is survived by daughter, Donna Calbough (Marvin), of Hixson; and son, Charles Coxey, of Dayton; grandchildren, Teresa Calbough Dinger (Mike), of Hixson, and Terry Calbough, of Dayton; and beloved great-grandchildren, Haille and Hunter Dinger, of Hixson, and Molly and Cash Calbough, of Dayton. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews and many, many friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests the memorials be given to the building fund of Cranmore Cove Baptist Church, P.O. Box 988, Dayton, TN 37321.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Amedisys Hospice whose staff provided wonderful and loving care, and to caregivers, Sylvia Everett, Carol Suttles and Claudia Bishop for their kind and dedicated service.
Funeral will be at 3 p.m. today, April 16, at the funeral home with Rev. Bobby Schafer and Rev. Clyde Fitzgerald officiating.
Interment in Buttram Cemetery.
Visitation from 1 to 3 p.m. today at the funeral home.
Please visit www.coultergarrisonfuneralhome.com to share condolences.
Arrangements by Coulter- Garrison Funeral Home Inc., Dayton, TN 37321.
Chester Lemons
SPRING CITY — Chester Lemons, 85, died Monday, April 13, 2015.
Funeral service at 2 p.m. Friday in the chapel of Vaughn Funeral Home.
Interment in Spring City Cemetery.
Visitation noon to 2 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
Vaughn Funeral Home, Spring City in charge of arrangements.
www.vaughn-funeral-home.com.
Jeanne Lynam
ESTILL SPRINGS — Jeanne Lynam, 80 passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2015
Visitation 5-8 p.m. Friday at Moore-Cortner Funeral Home.
Funeral at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 18, at the Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Decherd.
Moore- Cortner Funeral Home, 300 First Ave NW, Winchester, TN 37398, 931-967-2222, www.moorecortner.com.
Earl Marshall
BELVIDERE — Earl Clayton Marshall, 87, passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2015, at Southern Tennessee Regional Medical Center in Winchester.
Visitation from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. today, April 16, at Moore-Cortner Funeral Home.
Funeral Services will follow at 1 p.m. at Moore-Cortner Funeral Home, Winchester, TN 37398, 931-967-2222.
Steve Richardson
PIKEVILLE — Steve Allen Richardson, 48, died Wednesday, April 15, 2015.
Services Friday, April 17, at 1 p.m. CDT in the funeral home chapel.
Burial in Rigsby Cemetery. Visitation 9-9 p.m. today.
Online condolences can be made at
www. reedfamilyfh. com. Arrangements by Putnam-Reed Funeral Home, Highway 127 South, Pikeville.
Edna Stephens
DECHERD — Edna S. Stephens, 87, passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2015, at her residence.
Funeral at 2 p.m. Friday, April 17, in the Moore-Cortner Chapel. Interment in Franklin Memorial Gardens.
Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. today at Moore-Cortner Funeral Home, Winchester, TN 37398, 931-967-2222, www. moorecortner.com.
Philip Thomas
CLEVELAND — Philip Michael Thomas passed away Tuesday, April 7, 2015.
Visitation 11 a.m.-noon service time today, April 16, at St. James Cumberland Presbyterian Church in America 151 Short Street N.E. Cleveland, Tenn.
Interment in Chattanooga National Cemetery with full military honors.
Arrangements by Patton Funeral Home wwwpattonfuneralhome1962.com
GEORGIA
Arvine Bradford
NEW SALEM — Bernard Arvine Bradford, 92, passed away April 14, 2015. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend to all that knew him. Arvine was a member of New Salem United Methodist Church, a veteran of World War II, and a member of the Northwest Georgia Fox Hunters Association.
Arvine is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Viva Hixson Bradford; daughters and sons-in-law, Adena and Bob Ferrante, S.C., Shirley and Philip Cagle, Cathy and Roger Castleberry, Rising Fawn; sons and daughters-in-law, Milton and Margaret Bradford, Wesley and Sharon Bradford and Ernie and Barbara Bradford, of Rising Fawn; sisters, Lila Adkins and Joyce Tremmier; brother, Gene Bradford, all of Rising Fawn; 12 grandchildren; 15 great- grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and a host of friends.
Services will be held 2 p.m. Friday, April 17, 2015, at the Trenton Chapel of Moore Funeral Home with Rev. Ken Curtis, Rev. John Stanley and Rev. Jodi Ihfe officiating.
Interment will follow in the Hawkins Cemetery.
Visitation will be held today 4-8 p.m.; Friday 1-2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the New Salem United Methodist Church Building Fund.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.moorefuneralhometrenton.com.
Arrangements by Moore Funeral Home, Trenton, Ga.
Grace Carson
ADAIRSVILLE — Grace Elois Carson, 59, died Saturday, April 11, 2015.
Funeral at 2 p.m. Friday, at Adairsville Body of Christ. Her remains will lie in state at the church noon until the funeral hour.
Interment: Poplar Spring Cemetery, Adairsville. www. willisfuneralhomedalton.com.
Arrangements by Willis Funeral Home Inc., Dalton, Ga.
Perry Cook
ROSSVILLE — Perry Arthell Cook 95, passed away Monday, April 13, 2015, in Hixson.
Mr. Cook is survived by his son, Perry D. Cook, of East Ridge, Tenn.; his daughter, Janice (Jack) Steele, of Hixson; his grandchildren, Will Steele, of Hixson, Amanda O’Neal, of Rossville, and Kelly Cook, of Houston, Texas; his great-grandchildren, Christina (Shane) Skidmore, of Ringgold, Ga., Cayla (John) Jenkins, of Chattanooga, Page Moore and Ethan O’Neal, both of Rossville; his great-great-grandchildren, Jude Skidmore, Zeppelin Skidmore and Unborn baby Baby Leena Boyd; and his sisters, Gail Broadus and Edna McCabe, of Mobile, Ala.
Mr. Cook was preceded in death by his wife, Annie Lou Roberts Cook; and his wife, Mary Lois Cooley Cook.
Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. CDT today, April 16, from Kerby Funeral Home chapel with Pastor Dick Hillis officiating.
Burial will follow in Biddle Cemetery with Kerby Funeral Home directing.
The family will receive friends today from 1 to 3 p.m. CST.
Ernestine Cross
CHICKAMAUGA — Ernestine Galyon Cross, 92, passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2015, at her residence.
She was born in Maryville, Tenn., to the late Walter and Winnie Galyon but had lived the greater part of her life in the Chattanooga and north Georgia areas. She was a faithful member of Gordon Lake Wesleyan Church where she played piano, sang specials, and served as Sunday School teacher. Mrs. Cross started the first youth program at the church and she enjoyed playing the guitar, crocheting, and spending time with her family.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Thomas Burl Cross Sr.; son, Terry L. Cross; granddaughter, Tammie Jean Glass; one sister; and two brothers.
Survivors include her sons and daughters-in-law, Thomas Burl Jr. and Bobbie Cross, Chickamauga, Danny W. and Brenda Cross, Lakesite, Walter Olen and Teresa Cross, Chickamauga; daughter and son-in-law, Charlotte & Howard Bartlett, Chickamauga; daughter-in-law, Debbie Cross Poteet, Chickamauga; sister, Marna Hotle, Clinton, Tenn.; 13 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 18, at 11 a.m. in the South Crest Chapel with Dr. Marlin Hotle and Pastor Rick Frazier officiating.
Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery.
To share expressions of sympathy, visit her online guestbook at lane-southcrestchapel.com.
A special thank you is extended to the staff at Amedisys Hospice for the excellent care given during her illness.
The family will receive friends Friday from 4–8 p.m. at the South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home & Crematory, at the end of historic Missionary Ridge, Rossville.
Bill Dunn
ROCK SPRING — James Willis “Bill” Dunn, 80, passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2015, at his residence.
Mr. Dunn was owner/operator of Dunn’s Garage for many years.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Peggy Logan; and a son, Dennis York.
He is survived by three daughters, Becky Clark and Kathy Harris, both of LaFayette, Ga. and Annette Champion, of Dalton, Ga.; three sisters; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews also survive Mr. Bill Dunn.
A Memorial Service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 18, 2015, in the LaFayette Chapel of Wilson Funeral Home with Jim Saunier officiating.
On-line guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com.
Wilson Funeral Homes, LaFayette Chapel in charge of the arrangements. 706-638-1122.
Sarah Glenn
CHICKAMAUGA — Sarah Buchanan Glenn, 75, passed away Monday, April 13, 2015.
She was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Ringgold. Sarah Glenn was born in Memphis, Tenn., on July 6, 1939 and was raised in Chickamauga, Ga. She was a 1957 graduate from Rossville High School and during her life lived in many countries throughout the world. She lived in Bedford England, Monrovia, Liberia, Blantyre, Malawi and Rio De Janerio, Brazil. In 1975 she moved back to the United States and lived in Virginia up until 1989 when she moved back to Chickamauga.
She was preceded in death by her father, Leland Buchanan; her mother, Violet Buchanan; her brother, John Buchanan; her husband, Archer Glenn; and her son, Bernie Martin.
She is survived by her son, Stephen (Lynn) Martin, of Haymarket, Va.; daughter, Angela (Christian) Ford, of Atlanta, Ga.; five grandchildren, Bryan Martin, Christina Martin, Billy Martin, Delaney Martin and Meredith Ford; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be noon Saturday, in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Jeffery Bush officiating.
Interment will be in Tennessee Georgia Memorial Park.
Visit www.heritagebattlefield.com to share condolences and view memorial tribute.
The family will receive friends from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday, and one hour prior to the service on Saturday at Heritage Funeral Home & Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.
Willard Gustafson
ROSSVILLE — Willard Dean Gustafson, 82, passed away on Wednesday, April 15, 2015.
He was a native of Minnesota and has lived in Rossville for the past 48 years. Willard was a faithful student of God’s Word and was pastor of the First Baptist Church of Evensville, Tenn., for the last few years. He served in the U.S. Air Force as a jet engine instructor.
He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Joanne Gustafson; son, Steven ( Me l i ssa) Gustafson; daughter, Sandra (Mike) Hartline; brother, Neil Gustafson; sister, Nadine Gustafson; grandchildren, Cambrie Gustafson, Seth Gustafson, Alana Garner and Tyler Christian; and great-grandchildren, Emma and Lila.
Graveside services will be 1:30 p.m. Friday at Chattanooga National Cemetery with Pastor Mark Chandler officiating.
Visit www.heritagebattlefield.com to share condolences.
The family will receive friends 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. today at Heritage Funeral Home, Battlefield Parkway.
Lee Hawkins
RINGGOLD — Lee Owen Hawkins, 82, passed away on April, 12, 2015.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Vern Dodd Hawkins.
Lee is survived by his loving wife, Mary Hawkins of Ringgold, Ga.; children, James Dougherty, of Ringgold, Linda Pinette, Craig Hawkins and Susan Lynn Poage, of Arizona, one granddaughter and three grandsons.
The family plans for private services.
Arrangements by Wilson Funeral Home, LaFayette Chapel.
Shelia Johnson
FORT OGLETHORPE — Shelia Annette Johnson, 54, passed away Thursday, April 9, 2015, at a local healthcare.
Funeral Service will be Saturday, April 18, at 2 p.m. at Shady Grove Baptist Church.
Visitation Friday, April 17, from 7-8 p.m.
www.willisfuneralhomedalton. com. Arrangements by Willis Funeral Home, Inc., Dalton, Georgia.
Arthur Van Alstyne Jr.
CHICKAMAUGA — Arthur James Van Alstyne Jr., 86, passed away Saturday, April 11, 2015.
He was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., and had resided in Northwest Georgia for the past three years. He was a longtime resident of Aiken, S.C. and was a retired Professor from the University of South Carolina at Aiken where he taught for over thirty years. He was of the Presbyterian faith.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Van Alstyne; and mother, Wilma Van Alstyne.
He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Paul and Abigail Van Alstyne, of Chickamauga, Ga.; grandchildren. Christopher, Robert, Kathryn; and great-grandchild, Jillian.
The family plans to have a private memorial service.
You can share your condolences on-line at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements by Wilson Funeral Homes, LaFayette Chapel. 706-638-1122.
Gerald Williams
ROSSVILLE — Gerald “Stalk” Williams, 73, passed away on Wednesday, April 15, 2015.
Gerald was a lifelong resident of Rossville and a devoted member of Rossville Church of God for 48 years. He was a star football player at Rossville High School and enjoyed deer hunting and golf.
He is survived by his wife, Yvonne; sons, Kert, Byron Stacey, and Jon David; daughter, Shannon Mosier; four grandsons, Morgan James, Levi, Easton and Ezra Paul; and four granddaughters, Ashton, Emily, Amanda Kay and Evelyn.
Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Saturday at the Rossville Church of God.
Interment will follow at Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park.
Visit www.heritagebattlefield.com to share condolences and view memorial tribute.
The family will receive friends noon-9 p.m. today and 9 a.m.-9 p.m. on Friday at Heritage Funeral Home, Battlefield Parkway and from 1-2 p.m. at the church on Saturday.
ALABAMA
Mary Gibson
RAINSVILLE — Mary Ellen Gibson, 80, passed on Tuesday, April 14, 2015.
Funeral will be at 1 p.m. CDT Saturday at Burt Chapel, Fort Payne.
Burial in White Hall Cemetery.
www.burtfuneralhomes.com.
Visitation from 5- 8 p. m. today and Friday from 4- 8 p.m. CDT at Burt chapel, Fort Payne.
Anna Strange
LAKEVIEW — Anna Marie Strange, 44, passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2015.
Funeral will be at 2 p.m. CDT Friday, April 17, from the Funeral Chapel.
Burial will follow at Kelly’s Chapel.
Visitation from 11 a. m.-2 p.m. CDT Friday from W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.
Edward Varnell Sr.
BRYANT — Edward E. Varnell Sr., 81, passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2015, in a local health care facility.
He retired from Combustion after 20 years and was self-employed for more than 40 years. He was a member of Poplar Springs Baptist Church and a member of Sequatchie Valley Shrine Club.
He was preceeded in death by his wife, Patsy Varnell.
He is survived by his daughter, Sherri Varnell; son, Eddie Varnell; grandchildren, Kyle Varnell and Amber Varnell; great- grandchildren, Shellie Varnell, Hadley Nelms and Jake Varnell; sister, Mary Masingill; several nieces and nephews, all of Bryant, Ala.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. EDT Friday from the chapel of Moore Funeral Home in Trenton, Ga.
The family will receive friends from 2-9 p. m. EDT today at Moore Funeral Home in Trenton.
Interment will follow in Lakewood Memory Gardens, West.
Services entrusted to Reed Funeral Home, 11675 Highway 28, Whitwell, Tenn.