Danny Lee Atkins, 54, Rossville

Danny Lee Atkins of Rossville died Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2011, at his residence. He was 54.

A lifelong resident of the north Georgia area, he was an employee of U.S. X-press where he worked for over 17 years as a mechanic and was of the Baptist faith.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Annie Ruth Stoker Atkins; brother, Doyle Atkins; grandparents, Jim and Eva Atkins and Emmitt and Willie Mae Stoker; uncle; Buddy Stoker; and nephew, Derek Atkins.

Survivors include his loving wife of 35 years, Dianne Howard Atkins of Rossville; Father, Marvin Lee Atkins of Bryant, Ala.; three step-children, Sheila Darlene Hughes (Jeff) of Anderson, S.C., Missy Littlejohn (Lee Hogan) of East Ridge, Tenn,, and Marty Collins Jr. (Polly) of Ringgold; brother, Steve Atkins (Kathy) of Bryant, Ala.; sister, Deborah Rape of Rossville; aunt, Glenda Stoker of Ringgold; five grandchildren, Adam Johnston, Kyle Johnston, Micah Littlejohn, Tymber Littlejohn and Brandon Collins; three great grandchildren, Gracie Scarbrough, Kaden Johnston and Braydon Johnston; three nieces, Jamie Atkins, Marlena Atkins and Karlie Saint; and one nephew, Cody Rape.

Funeral services: Saturday, Dec. 31, at 1 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Burial: Oak Lawn Memorial Park in Bryant, Ala. Visitation: Thursday, Dec. 29, from 3-9 p.m., all day Friday, Dec. 30, and Saturday, Dec. 31, until funeral time at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Ft. Oglethorpe.

William Judson Hall Sr., 72, Chickamauga

William Judson Hall Sr. of Chickamauga died Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2011. He was 72.

He was born to the late Judson C. and Anne Elizabeth Holcomb Hall on June 6, 1939 in Chickamauga. He retired from PB&S Chemicals, was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a member of Old Bethel Baptist Church. He often served as the choir director and he enjoyed classic cars and collecting hats and knives.

He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Loretta Ann Hall; sisters, Louise Mull and Gladys Powell.

Survivors include three children, William J. Hall, Jr. of Chickamauga, Wayne Levi Hall of Chickamauga, Elizabeth Grace (Daniel) Gibson of Ringgold; sister, Sarah Knight of Chickamauga; three grandchildren, Christina Ann Hall, Ava Grace Gibson and Halle Faith Gibson; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Friday, Dec. 30, at 3 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Visitation: Thursday, Dec. 29, from 1-9 p.m. and Friday, Dec. 30, until service time at the funeral home. Burial: Chattanooga National Cemetery at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 2. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

James Edward Martin III, 44, Rock Spring

James Edward Martin III of Rock Spring died Monday, Dec. 26, 2011. He was 44.

He was a lifelong resident of Chickamauga. His parents and children are life-long members of Rock Spring United Methodist Church and his brother and sister-in-law are members of Silverdale Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Toby Martin.

Survivors include his four children, Ethan K. Martin Miller, Chase Martin Miller, Mariah Martin Miller and Jarrod Martin Miller; parents, Ralph and Vivian Miller of Rock Spring; brothers, Jarrod (Lisa) Martin of Rock Spring and Christopher (Jessica) Miller of Tallahassee, Fla., Phillip Martin of Fort Oglethorpe; paternal grandmother, Marie Miller; several aunts, uncles and cousins, friends and co-workers, Corey Smith and Oscar Harris.

Memorial services: Saturday, Dec. 31, at 1 p.m. at the Rock Spring United Methodist Church with Pastor Jerry Peele officiating. Visitation: Saturday, Dec. 31, from 11 a.m. until the service hour at the church. Flowers may be sent to the funeral home for delivery to the church. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.



Kenneth Paul Estus, 71, Trion

Kenneth Paul Estus died Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2011. He was 71.

He was a member of Bethel Memorial Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Marie Young Estus; sister, Doris Blevins; and brother, Ronald Estus.

Survivors include his loving wife of 52 years, Tressie Williams Estus; father, Paul Jefferson Estus; daughters, Theresa (Greg) Latta, Debra (Michael) Taylor, all of Trion, and Marcella (Jose) Cabrera of Trion; sisters, Charlotte Collis, Kathy Jones, Paula Worley, all of LaFayette; brothers, Donnie Estus of LaFayette and Leonard Estus of Texas; grandchildren, Andy Latta, Ben Latta, Philip Cabrera, Nina Cabrera, Faith Cabrera; great-grandson, Knox Latta; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Friday, Dec. 30, at 2 p.m. at the Bethel Memorial Baptist Church conducted by Revs. Bud Martenn and Tim Jones. Burial: West Hill Cemetery. Visitation: Thursday, Dec. 29, from 6-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Wilma Jean Pearce Foster, 67, Chickamauga

Wilma Jean Pearce Foster of Chickamauga died Monday, Dec. 26, 2011. She was 67.

She was a Jehovah’s Witness and attended the Mountain Cove congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Survivors include her husband, E.V. Foster; daughter, Cynthia (Pate) Davis of Chickamauga; sister, Willie Pearl Farmer of Chattanooga, Tenn.; granddaughter, Rekieta Davis of Chickamauga; sister-in-laws, Betty Lou Foster of Chattanooga, Tenn., Sarah Gifford of LaFayette, and Tessie Harris of Chattanooga, Tenn.; several nieces and nephews; cousins; and special friend, Deanna Gaines.

Memorial service: Saturday, Dec. 31, at 3 p.m. at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, off Hwy. 27 bypass at 547 Roadrunner Blvd., LaFayette, GA 30728, with Bro. David Dixon officiting. Visitation: Thursday, Dec. 29, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Thomas Earl McKay, 71, Rossville

Thomas “Tommy” Earl McKay of Rossville died Saturday, Dec. 24, 2011, at home surrounded by loving family. He was 71.

He was born to Mamie Ruth McKay and the late Earl Joseph McKay on Oct. 20, 1940, in Chattanooga, Tenn. Tommy was a devoted member and deacon at Fairview Baptist Church. He was best known as a man who truly lived to serve the Lord and did so by teaching Sunday school for 12 years while serving on various committees to aid in development and outreach of the church.

Tommy completed his high school education at Rossville High School in 1958. He began his naval career by enlisting in 1958 in Nashville, Tenn., then went to San Diego for training. He was stationed upon the USS Shangri La as a radar technician. While in the Navy, he sailed the world, visited multiple countries and was stationed in Cuba during the missile crisis.

After serving in the Navy, Tom returned to Georgia and attended Southern Polytechnic State University in Marietta. While in school, he was top of his class and completed railroad training. He proceeded to work at Southern Railway as a machinist for 40 years. In his free time, he was an avid farmer and gardener and enjoyed sharing his vegetables and spending time on his tractor.

Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Jeanette Tatum McKay; sons, Jonathan (Linnie) McKay of Gainesville, and Joseph (Julia) McKay of Rossville; sister, Faye (Dave) Brotherton of Lakemont; brother, Robert “Bobby” (Frankie) McKay of Rossville; “Papaw” of six grandchildren, Candace and Heath Dunwoodie, Phil Gunter, Daniele and Tyler Wear, Kayla Gates and Morgan McKay; and of three great-grandchildren, Alex Wade, Trace Dunwoodie and Jackson Thomas Dunwoodie.

Funeral services: Wednesday, Dec. 28, at noon at Fairview Baptist Church, 108 Jenkins Road, Rossville, with Rev. James Bennett officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens, South. Visitation: Tuesday, Dec. 27, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home as well as the hour before the funeral on Wednesday, Dec. 28, at the church. If you wish, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, a donation be made to either Fairview Baptist Church or the Disabled Veterans Association. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home.

Victoria Brown Newton, 51, Rossville

Victoria Brown Newton of Rossville died Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2011. She was 51.

She was a lifelong resident of Rossville and a member of Mission Glenn Baptist Church. Victoria graduated from Rossville High School as an honor student in 1978. She loved spending time with her family, delivering school buses and was employed at Norton Transport for seven years.

She was preceded in death by her son, Seth Aaron Brown.

Survivors include her husband, of 10 years, LeBron Newton; parents, Ralph and Faye Callaham Brown; daughter, Jennifer Cooper-Clark (Tommy) of Flintstone; step-sons, Eddy Newton (Wendy) of Flat Rock and Allen Newton (Ashley) of Carrollton; sister, Rochelle Powell Smith (Timothy) of Chickamauga; brother, Clyde “Buster” Powell of Rossville; grandchildren, Kaleb Lee and Landon Edward; and nephew Todd Edward Smith (Tasha) of Flintstone.

Funeral service: Friday, Dec. 30, at 1 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Bros. R.V. Wells and David Smith officiating. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Wednesday, Dec. 28, after 4 p.m. all day Thursday, Dec. 29, and prior to the service on Friday, Dec. 30. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Ft. Oglethorpe.

Rickey DeWayne Williams, 56, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Rickey DeWayne Williams of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011, in a local hospital. He was 56.

Mr. Williams was a member of Pine Hill Baptist Church and sang with the gospel group Pine Hill Boys. Rickey was a wonderful husband, father and son-in-law. He loved his family, loved to hunt and loved Georgia Tech football. He had worked for the maintenance department of the Catoosa County school system for the past 28 years.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Verner Spurlin Williams and a brother, Terry Williams.

Survivors include his wife, Wendy Land Williams; father, Halbert Williams; two sons, Rick Williams, II and Brett Matheny, both of Chattanooga, Tenn.; three daughters, Tiffany Paquette, Brittany Matheny, both of Chattanooga, Tenn. and Whitney Matheny of Ringgold; sister, Pam Hamilton of Ringgold; grandson, Jaxson Knight of Chattanooga, Tenn.; and several nieces and nephews.

Services: Thursday, Dec. 29, at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with Greg Phillips officiating. Burial: Land’s Chapel Cemetery, Englewood, Tenn. Pallbearers: Cody Azbill, Ronnie Fulton, Jerry Garrison, Jake Haynes, Ronnie Kitchen and Bill Simpson. Visitation: Wednesday, Dec. 28, from 12–8 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 7454 E. Brainerd Road.

James Ronald York, 69, Ringgold

James Ronald “Ronnie” York of Ringgold died Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2011, in a local hospital. He was 69.

He was a lifelong resident of north Georgia and was owner of Ringgold Auto Parts for 28 years. Mr. York was a member of Lakeview First Baptist Church and was an avid southern gospel quartet singer, having sung with the Scenic Land Quartet, The Believers and the Kingsman Quartet. He was also a charter member of the Ringgold Kiwanis Club.

Survivors include his loving wife of 46 years, Sue York; daughters, Leisa (Ron) Kibble of Ringgold, Kristi (Ron) Johnson of Rock Spring; God-son, Philip (Molly) Wong of Norman, Okla.; sister, Joye (James) Dean of Ringgold; 12 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Service: Thursday, at 5 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Revs. Dennis McNulty and Chris Pepponis officiating. Visitation: Thursday, from 1:30-5 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be private. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. A memorial fund has been established at Gateway Bank and Trust, 5102 Alabama Highway, Ringgold, GA, 30736. Heritage Funeral Home, Battlefield Parkway.



Ellen Hale Cameron, 85, LaFayette

Ellen Hale Cameron of LaFayette died Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011, on Christmas Day at National Health Care in Fort Oglethorpe. She was 85.

She was a member of First Baptist Church of LaFayette and a member of the Seekers Sunday school class. A lifelong resident of Walker County, she was born July 11, 1926.

The daughter of A.R. Hale and Minnie Smith Hale, she was preceded in death by her husband, James Arra Cameron; sisters, Allene Underwood, Jamie Moore, Nell Edwards, Ernestine Bartlett, Martha Oliver, and Betty Gilbreath.

Survivors include two sons, David A. Cameron of LaFayette and Rick Cameron (Myra) of Macon; two granddaughters, Allison Camercon (Scott) Tarrer of Ideal and Courtney Cameron (Kevin) Shields of Calera, Ala.; great grandchildren, Andrew Tarrer, Abigail Tarrer, Katie Shields, Cassie Shields, and Conner Shields; sister, Daphne Edge of LaFayette.

Special thank you to Dr. Ted Scroggins and caregiver, Sue Brown.

Funeral service: Wednesday, Dec. 28, at noon at First Baptist Church in LaFayette led by Warren Moorhead and Todd Gaddis. Pallbearers: nephews, Joe Moore, Johnny Edge, Tommy Edge, Gary Underwood, Ronald Underwood, Mike Gilbreath, Mark Oliver, Ronnie Scoggins, Terry Dilbeck and Steve Dilbeck. Honorary pallbearers: members of the Seekers Sunday school class. Burial: LaFayette Cemetery. Visitation: Tuesday, Dec. 27, from 5-8 p.m. at First Baptist Church of LaFayette. Memorial gifts may be made to the First Baptist Church of LaFayette. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Reuben Jacob “RJ” Hookey, 78, Rossville

Reuben Jacob “RJ” Hookey of Rossville died Friday, Dec. 23, 2011. He was 78.

He was born in Kimball, Tenn., to the late Herbert and Virgie Hookey, and served his country in the U.S. Air Force. He later was a steward over the union at Bowman Transport where he worked for 26 years, and retired from Walker County school system after 13 years of service as a school bus driver. He was a member of Mountain View Baptist Church.

He was also preceded in death by his son, Roger; great grandson, Koti Brooks; and foster brother, Homer Marshall.

Survivors include his loving wife of 33 years, Pat Lassetter Drake Hookey of Rossville; children, Judy (John) Parker of LaFayette, Susan (Mark) Walker of Chattanooga, Tenn., Galen Luther (Angela) Drake, Terry Paul Drake all of Ringgold; foster daughter, Lisa Marie Fleming; sisters, Martha Hunnicut of Jasper, Tenn., Estelle Peoples of Kimball, Tenn., Jane Alder of Whitwell; foster brothers, Bill and Fred Marshall; grandchildren, Stephanie Radcliff, John and Elizabeth Hookey, Jennifer Brooks, Justin and Jacob Drake, Tara and Hannah Drake, Mackenzie Walker; four great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Wednesday, Dec. 28, at 11 a.m. in the chapel with Revs. Greg Finch and Wally Mann officiating. Burial: Mountain Home Cemetery in Henagar, Ala. Visitation: Monday, Dec. 26, after 4 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 27, after 4 p.m., and prior to the service Wednesday, Dec. 28, at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson ane Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Ericka Dawn Hullender, 29, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Ericka Dawn Hullender of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Thursday, Dec. 22, 2011. She was 29.

A lifelong resident of the north Georgia/ Chattanooga area, she was a former employee of Dollar Tree in Ooltewah, Tenn., and was a member of Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Bennie Levi Hullender, Bobbie Jo Jones, Richard Scoggins and Maybell Scoggins.

Survivors include her father, Bennie Douglas Hullender of Ringgold; mother; Mildred Scoggins Hullender of Chattanooga, Tenn.; stepfather, Richard Goins of Chattanooga, Tenn.; brother, Nathan Douglas Hullender of Chattanooga, Tenn.; companion, Kelley Callahan; several aunts; uncles; and cousins.

Funeral services: Tuesday, Dec. 27, at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Danny Henson officiating. Burial: Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation: Monday, Dec. 26, from 3-9 p.m. and Tuesday, Dec. 27, until service time at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the funeral home for funeral expenses. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Ringgold.

Jerry Lynn Melton, 56, Rock Spring

Jerry Lynn Melton of Rock Spring and a former longtime resident of Cleveland, Tenn., died Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2011. He was 56.

He was employed with the Tennessee Department of Transportation and was the former owner of Outdoor Adventures in Cleveland, Tenn.

Survivors include his wife, Irene Melton of Rock Spring; mother, Beatrice Irene Melton of Cleveland, Tenn.; stepsons, Rusty Hindman and wife, Gina of Kennesaw, and Justin Hindman of Dalton; one grandson, Benjamin Hindman of Kennesaw; one sister, Charlotte Smith of Riceville, Tenn.; sister-in-law, Juanita Beavers of Dalton.

Visitation: Jan. 1, at 2 p.m. at Ralph Buckner Funeral Home. Online guest book is available at www.ralphbuckner.com. Arrangements: Buckner Funeral Home.

John Walter Rhea Jr., 87, Chattanooga, Tenn.

John Walter Rhea Jr. of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011, in a local health care facility. He was 87.

Mr. Rhea was a lifelong resident of Chattanooga, Tenn., and a member of McFarland United Methodist Church. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, and was the retired owner of a Tom’s Foods distributorship.

He was preceded in death by his wives, Dorothy Martin Rhea and Martha Shepard Rhea.

Survivors include his sister, Hazel Ryan; nephews, Larry (Nancy) Ryan and Mike Ryan; niece, Pat Kimball; and several great-nieces and -nephews.

Graveside services: Thursday, Dec. 29, at 12:30 p.m., with full military honor at the Chattanooga National Cemetery with Matt Hampton officiating. Visitataion: Thursday, Dec. 29, from 11 a.m. until noon at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Edward Lebron White, 66, LaFayette

Edward Lebron White of LaFayette died Friday, Dec. 23, 2011. He was 66.

Survivors include his wife, Joan White of LaFayette; daughters, Kristy White of Chattanooga, Tenn., Lora Evans of England, Julie Davis of Hazelhurst; sons, Bronny White of Ringgold, John White of Swainsboro, Andy Ingram of Gainsville, Daniel White and Jonah White, both of LaFayette; sisters, Barbara Hartley and Brenda Avakian, both of Fort Oglethorpe; brother, Ralph White of Ringgold; 12 grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside service: Monday, Dec. 26, at 2 p.m. in Wood Station Cemetery with service conducted by Rev. Lowell Cantrell. Visitation: Sunday, Dec. 25, from 6-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.



Vivian Lovern Hampton, 88, LaFayette

Vivian Lovern Hamption of LaFayette died Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2011. She was 88.

She was a member of LaFayette First United Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Barney Hampton Jr.; brothers Homer Lovern Jr. and Horace Lovern.

Survivors include a daughter, Patti (Randy) Staton of Summerville; sons, David (Nancy) Hampton of Dalton, Mike (Brenda) Hampton of Rocky Face; sisters, Sara Ledbetter of LaFayette, Helen Ridley of Tavares, Fla.; sisters-in-law, Betty Lovern of LaFayette, Jane Waters of LaFayette, Barnette Brimer of Trion, Nell Freeman of Dalton; brother-in-law, Bryant Campbell of Trion; seven grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; one great great grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Saturday, Dec. 24, at 11 a.m. from the First United Methodist Church of LaFayette conducted by Revs. David Autry, Queon Smith and John Moore. Pallbearers: Kevin Hampton, Shane Floyd, Chris Hampton, Blake Floyd, Josh Staton, Jeremy Staton, Jeremy McMahan. Honorary pallbearers: James and Sarah Ingram, Joel and Louise Tucker, Albert and Delene Ellis, and her church family. Burial: LaFayette Cemetery. Visitation: Friday, Dec. 23, from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers donation may be made to the First United Methodist Church of LaFayette. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home. LaFayette.

Paul Benson Kelley, 82, Fayetteville, N.C.

LTC Retired Paul Benson Kelley of Fayetteville, N.C., died Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2011, at the N.C. State Veterans Home. He was 82.

Born in LaFayette on Aug. 23, 1929, LTC Kelley grew up in LaFayette and Rockmart. After high school he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served in the Panama Canal Zone and at Paris Island, S.C. When his enlistment was over he attended the University of Chattanooga and at graduation was commissioned as 2nd Lt. in the United States Army. His tours of duty included assignments in Augsburg and Munich, Germany, Ankara, Turkey and South Vietnam plus more than 12 post in the U.S. After retirement he was instrumental in the establishment of an Army ROTC program at Western Harnett High School and then had a second career as a guidance counselor for the Harnett County School System. He was a longtime member of Snyder Memorial Baptist Church and the Cogswell men’s Sunday school class. He was an ordained deacon and served in the bicycle ministry and the carpentry ministry at the church.

He was preceded in death by his son, Dr. William Andrew Kelley.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Josephine Walker Kelley; son, Paul B. Kelley Jr. (Laura) of Wake Forest, N.C.; brothers, William E. Scott of Murfreesboro, Tenn. and Howell Scott of Rossville; and sister, Sheila Manley of Ringgold; eight grandchildren, Andrew Kelley of Nashville, Tenn., Evan Kelley of Chattanooga, Tenn., Kathryn Luke, Rebecca and Rachel Kelley of Wake Forest, N.C.; and Georgia and Jake Kelley of the home.

Funeral service: Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011 at 11 a.m. in Snyder Memorial Baptist Church Sanctuary by Robbie Byrd. Burial: following in Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery with full military honors. Visitation: Thursday, Dec. 22, one hour prior to the service in the gathering hall at Snyder Memorial Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Philadelphia Ministry or the Carpentry Ministry at Snyder Memorial Baptist Church. Arrangements: Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home.

Patricia G. Owen

Patricia G. “Momma Pat” Owen died Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2011, with Alzheimer’s disease surrounded by her family.

She was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother. Mrs. Owen worked for 44 years with the Social Security Administration and, in retirement, taught for 15 years as a substitute teacher for the Ringgold school system. Momma Pat was famous for her generous heart, fun spirit and delicious baking. She will be greatly missed by hundreds of people whose lives she touched with her kindness.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Duke and Thelma Graham; her brother, Charles Graham; and her sister, Imogene Malone.

Survivors include her husband, Leslie C. Owen; her three daughters, Diane Tawbush (Don), Susan Owen and Leslie Owen Crosdale (Kareem); two granddaughters, Rachael Tawbush and Nichole Hill (K.C.); great-granddaughter, Madilynn Hill; and brothers, A. Duke Graham Jr., Harold Graham and Ben Graham; sisters, Jeanette Glaze and Lila George; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Amedisys Hospice of Dalton, 1510 N. Thornton Ave., Ste. 200, Dalton, GA 30720 in honor of Momma Pat Owen. Services: Friday, Dec. 23, at Ridout’s Elmwood Chapel, 800 Dennison Ave S.W. Birmingham, Ala. 35211 at 3 p.m. CST/4 p.m. EST. Rev. Gregory G. Graham officiating. Visitation: one hour prior. Burial: Elmwood Cemetery.



Lee M. Hewitt, 67, LaFayette

Lee M. Hewitt of LaFayette died Wednesday, Dec.21, 2011. He was 67.

He was a member of Macedonia Baptist Church in Villanow, and he retired from World Carpet after 35 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Luther and Annie Hewitt.

Survivors include sisters, Judy Watts, Mary White, both of LaFayette, and Helen Cooper of Resaca; brother, Steve Hewitt of LaFayette; caregiver, his nephew, Paul Hewitt of LaFayette; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Friday, Dec. 23, in the chapel with Scott Cooper officiating. Burial: Macedonia Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation: Thursday, Dec. 22, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Ethel Thomas “Tommy” Mayes, 89, Dahlonega

Mrs. Ethel Thomas “Tommy” Mayes, formerly of Dahlonega, died Nov. 1, 2011, in Rock Spring, of a longtime illness. She was 89.

Mrs. Mayes was born in Danville, Ky., Sept. 23, 1922. Her lifetime work was wife, mother, and homemaker. She was a talented seamstress. Tommy supported Dahlonega’s Lions Club and Chamber of Commerce at her husband's side. Tommy was the daughter of the late Rev. Stephen and Mary Louise Soper Gilbert. She will be sorely missed.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Kenneth Guy Mayes.

Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Stephen Arthur and Diane White Mayes of Chickamauga; and daughter and son-in-law, Tomi and Philip Cambron of Dahlonega; grandchildren, Tracy and Todd Bruce of Columbus, Shelby Cambron of Idaho Falls, Ida., and fiancée, Katie Gregory, Marc and Paige Mayes of Chattanooga, Tenn., and Guy and Jessica Cambron of Dahlonega; greatgrandchildren, Katherine, Mackenzie, and Peyton Cambron, Kati and Alli Bruce, and Olivia and Sawyer Mayes.

Memorial service: Nov. 12, at 2 p.m., at Dahlonega United Methodist Church. Visitation: at 1 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers, gifts to JDRF in memory of Tommy Mayes would be appreciated. JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International) 26 Broadway, 14th floor, New York, NY 10004. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, LaFayette.



W. Howard Buckner, 95, Flintstone

W. Howard Buckner of Flintstone died Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2011. He was 95.

Mr. Buckner was born in Winchester, Tenn., and had lived the past 56 years in Flintstone. He was an active member of the Chattanooga Valley Church of the Nazarene, where he had served as trustee and secretary of the church board for 25 years. He was also a Sunday school teacher and choir member. He was owner and operator of the Chattanooga Dental Laboratory until its sale in 1981, and then he founded Buckner Craft, continuing to serve many dentists in this area. He was a true artisan in his field. His passions in life were his church, family, farming, repairing antique clocks, and serving others in his church and community.

He was preceded in death by his wives, Margie Floyd Buckner and Cora McCutcheon Buckner; daughter, Nancy Marie Maples; parents, W.M. and Nancy Buckner; brother, Rube Buckner; sister, Vivian Buckner; and granddaughter, Karen Buckner.

Survivors include his three children, Garry (Marilyn) Buckner of Chickamauga, Helen (Kelly) Hawkins of Flintstone, and Jim (Pat) Buckner of Flintstone; sister, Mable North of Rogersville, Tenn. and Polly Fisher of Chickamauga; brother, Cecil Buckner of Henegar, Ala.; 10 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Thursday, Dec. 22, at 3 p.m. at the Chattanooga Valley Church of the Nazarene with Rev. Jon Bemis officiating. Visitation: Wednesday from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home and Thursday, Dec. 22, from 1-3 p.m. at the church. Burial: Lakewood South Memory Gardens. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Betty Ann Petet, 75, East Ridge, Tenn.

Betty Ann Petet of East Ridge, Tenn., died Saturday, Dec. 17, 2011. She was 75.

Born on July 11, 1936, in Detroit, Mich., Betty was the daughter of the late Delbert C. and Mary Lee Hancock. lifelong resident of the Chattanooga area, Betty married her childhood sweetheart, Tommy, at age 17. Betty was an active member of South Seminole Baptist Church for over 50 years. An excellent cook and homemaker, Betty was constantly doing things that would make a difference in people's lives, from visiting the sick to preparing and delivering meals for others. She was the perfect example of a Godly woman who loved the Lord and always put others before herself. During her later years, she particularly enjoyed spending time with her “widow women” friends from church.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Charles H. “Tommy” Petet, and brother, Delbert C. Hancock Jr.

Survivors include her daughter, Donna Petet Barbree of Rossville; sons and daughters-in-law, Randy and Ashleigh Petet of Ringgold; and Jeff and Becky Petet of Ooltewah, Tenn.; grandchildren, Brandon Barbree and Morgan Petet; great-granddaughter, Jada Anna Marie Walker; brothers and sisters-in-law, John T. and Barbara Hancock of Hixson, Tenn.; Robert J. and Sue Hancock of Harrison, Tenn.; uncle, Robert E. Dyar of Soddy Daisy, Tenn.; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Tuesday, Dec. 20, at noon in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Ron Perry officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens, South. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the Building Fund at South Seminole Baptist Church, 1201 S. Seminole Dr., East Ridge, Tenn., 37412. Visitation: Monday, Dec. 19, from 4-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.

Dot Stansell, 52, LaFayette

Dot Stansell of LaFayette died Sunday, Dec. 18, 2011. She was 52.

Survivors include husband, Larry Stansell; mother, Betty Bowen of Akron, Ohio; daughter, Michelle Raines of Sevierville, Tenn.; sons, Randall Raines of Sevierville, Tenn. and Patrick and wife Michelle Stansell of LaFayette; sister, Linda Lydick of Ravenna, Ohio; brothers, Mike Thompson, Carl Thompson, both of Akron, Ohio; Eric Thompson of S.C.; one grandchild, Brook Varnes of Sevierville, Tenn.; and several nieces and nephews.

No service. Visitation: Tuesday, Dec. 20, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.



Jewell E. Cates, Rossville

Jewell E. Cates of Rossville died Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011, at her home.

She was born in Chattanooga, Tenn., to the late Andrew and Essie Russell, and was a member of Battlefield Baptist Church, her newly extended loving family.

She was also preceded in death by her husbands, Irvin McCormick and William Cates; son, Ricky Dewayne McCormick; sisters, Grace Smith, Marcella Cobb, Betty Denton, and brothers, James and Bill Russell.

Survivors include her daughter, Vickie Hunkapillar; sons, Mickey (Becky) McCormick, Steve (Delinda) McCormick; stepson, Eddie (Donna) Cates; grandchildren, Taffi (Patrick) McBride, Chad (Tonja) Hunkapiller, Stephanie (William) Hudson, Jennifer Suits, Stacy Ellis, Todd (Claudia) McCormick, Dustin McCormick; eight great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Monday, Dec. 19, at 1 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. David Crane officiating. Pallbearers: grandsons, Chad Hunkapiller, Todd and Dustin McCormick and her great-grandsons, Cameron and Robert Anderson, and Austin Hudson. Burial: Chattanooga National Cemetery. Visitation: Saturday, Dec. 17, from 2-5 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 18, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Lois Virginia Nabors Gossett, 73, Rossville

Lois Virginia Nabors Gossett of Rossville died Friday, Dec. 16, 2011, at her residence. She was 73.

A native of Hollywood, Ala., she has lived in the Rossville area for 60 years and was formerly of Paint Rock, Ala. She was a former employee of Rossville Chrometex where she worked for 28 years and was a member of Central Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Elexander Gossett; parents, Arthur “Hop” Nabors and Ruby Talley Smith; two brothers, James and Marion Nabors, and special niece, Pam Nabors Chastain.

Survivors include two daughters, Cathy Thomas (Bo) of Rossville and Donna Graham (Charles) of Trenton; sister, Syble Byram of East Ridge, Tenn.; two brothers, Floyd Nabors (Norma) of Bridgeport, Ala., and Al Nabors (Sarah) of South Pittsburg, Tenn.; four grandchildren, Sabrina Bloodworth (Chris Shell), Stacy Newman, Jeremy Bloodworth (Angela), and Justin Bloodworth (Ashley); five great-grandchildren, Stephenie Kisor (Will), Stephen Watson II, Jessica Bloodworth, Morgan Bloodworth and Aiden Pierce; five step-grandchildren; eight step-great-grandchildren; special niece, Brandy Norton, and several other nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Tuesday, Dec. 20, at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Johnny Feagan officiating. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Sunday, Dec. 18, from 3-9 p.m., all day Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 19 and 20, until funeral time at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Ft. Oglethorpe.

Bruce Wayne Glenn, 62, Chickamauga

Bruce Wayne Glenn of Chickamauga died Friday, Dec. 16, 2011. He was 62.

He was born in Etowah, Ala., to the late Ralph Edward and Dicie Mae Brown Glenn. He had resided in Chickamauga for the past 50 years. He was an employee of Roper Corporation for more than 30 years. He enjoyed camping, woodworking, fishing and hunting. He was of the Baptist faith.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Nathan Thomas Glenn.

Survivors include his wife of 39 years, Peggy Dianne Stephenson Glenn of Chickamauga; children and their spouses, Les (Jeanne) Glenn of Chickamauga, Lisa (Larry) Muir of Rock Spring, Noah Glenn of Chickamauga; sister, Deborah Hodge; brother and sister-in-law, Ronald (Carolyn) Glenn, all of Chickamauga; grandchildren, Joshua, Ashley and Matthew Glenn, Alyssa Gravitt, Colbe and Christian Muir, Courtney and Dustin Garrett, Dakota Pace, and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation: Saturday, Dec. 17, from 6-9 p.m. and Sunday. Dec. 18, morning until the service. Funeral services: Sunday, Dec. 18, at 3:30 p.m. in the chapel with Melvin Wimpee officiating. Pallbearers: Randy Graham, Stacey Womack, Steven Womack, Jamie Tomlin, Steve Harold and Michael Glenn. Honorary pallbearers: employees of the Roper Corporation. Burial: LaFayette Memory Gardens. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, Chickamauga. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com.

Jeffery Walter Hudson, 52, LaFayette

Jeffery Walter Hudson of LaFayette died Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011. He was 52.

He was a resident of the north Georgia area for over 40 years and was a longtime member of the Speleological Society. He loved the great outdoors, including camping, fishing, rock climbing, caving, and cave rescue. He was also an avid animal lover. He was a devoted husband and father for over 10 years.

Survivors include his wife, Brandi Jo Hudson; three children, Jacob Alan Hudson, Jacklyn Heather Hudson, and Jason Joseph Hudson; step-son, Tyler Mitchell; mother, Melody Hudson; father, Horace Hudson; mother-in-law, Kimberly Ford; fathers-in-law, Mitchell Ford and Dale Swanson; sister, Dawn Hudson; sister-in-law, Heather Feierstein; niece, Carly Hudson; nephew, Job Feierstein.

Memorial service: Thursday, Dec. 22, at 6 p.m. at 300 Oak Street, LaFayette. For more information, please call pastor David McCormick at 423-255-7625. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Fort Oglethorpe.

George Franklin McKee, 87, Rossville

George Franklin McKee of Rossville, retired Master Sergeant in the U. S. Army, died Monday, Dec. 12, 2011, at his residence. He was 87.

He was born Feb. 26, 1924, in Monroe County, Tenn.

McKee was preceded in death by his parents, John H. and Mary Elizabeth McKee; his wife, Gisela McKee; three brothers, Steve R., John H., and James McKee, and one sister, Reba McKee Cantrell.

Survivors include daughter and son-in-law, Doris and Fred McAllister; siblings, Hazel Blizzard of El Paso, Texas, Mildred Cole of Cocoa Beach, Fla., and Harmon McKee of Sierra Vista, Ariz.

Funeral services: Thursday, Dec. 15, at 1 p.m. in the funeral home. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens, South. Visitation: Wednesday, Dec. 14, from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home, Battlefield Parkway.

Deborah Richards, 57, Lookout Mtn.

Deborah Massey Richards of Lookout Mountain died Dec. 10, 2011. She was 57

She was a lifelong resident of Lookout Mountain. She had retired from Walker County DFACS, was a foster parent for 11 years and was a member of Mount Carmel Gospel Church. She was a loved wife, mother, aunt and friend.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Elsie Massey; two sisters, Virgie Massey and Barbara McCormick; four brothers, Johnny, Arlie, Wayne and Kenneth Massey.

Survivors include her husband of 33 years, Mark Richards; three daughters, Amy and husband Scott Sivak of Huntsville, Ala., Kimberly Richards of Hixson, Tenn., Emily Richards of Lookout Mountain; son, Mark Richards of Lookout Mountain; sister, Brenda Landrum of Lynchburg, Va.; three brothers, Winfred Massey, Aaron Massey and Bobby Massey, all of Lookout Mountain; 28 foster children and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Wednesday, Dec. 14, at 2 p.m. at Mount Carmel Gospel Church with Cecil Gravitt, Jody Massey and Darryl Massey officiating. Burial: Mount Carmel Cemetery, 13902 Highway 157, Rising Fawn. Visitation: Monday, Dec. 12, from 4-8 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 13, from 2-4 p.m. and Wednesday, Dec. 14, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the church. Arrangements: Moore Funeral Home, Trenton.

Johnny Carl Justice Jr., 51, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Johnny Carl Justice Jr. of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Friday, Dec. 16, 2011, at a local hospital. He was 51.

He was a native of Rome and had lived most of his life in Chattanooga, Tenn. He had attended Orange Grove Center and the Tennessee School For The Blind in Nashville. His passions in life were fishing, going to school, and listening to the radio.

He was preceded in death by his father, John Carl Justice Sr.

Survivors include his mother, Evelyn Justice; brother and sister-in-law, Jimmy and Denise Justice of Chattanooga, Tenn.; nephews, Anthony and Chris Justice and Joshua Caldwell, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Graveside services: Monday, Dec. 19, at 2 p.m. at the Pleasant Hope Cemetery in Silver Creek, near Rome. Visitation: Sunday, Dec. 18, from 12-8 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com.

Arrangements: Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Johnny Carl Justice, Jr. please visit our Sympathy Store.



Randall Ray Benton, 81

Randall Ray Benton died on the evening of Friday, Dec. 16, 2011, with family by his side. He was 81.

He was born on Dec. 29, 1929, the son of the late Charles and Elizabeth Benton of Ringgold. He graduated from Ringgold High with the class of 1947, and then served as a cryptographer in the U.S. Army. Shortly after, he relocated to Newport News, Va., where he had lived ever since. He had an extensive career in the automobile industry on the Peninsula. Randy was quite the horticulturist and he was known for having the most pristine yard on the block. He was passionate about his plants and hostas which he beautified with his green thumb. Randy also enjoyed his classic cars and Cub Cadet tractor, boating, and boat-racing.

He was a wonderful husband, father, Pop-Pop, caregiver, and provider. He was married to Marie L. Benton for 52 years.

Survivors include his son, Michael and his wife, Nancy, and their two daughters Tori and Parker and ;his daughter, Jan Bennett and her husband, Jan.

Visitation: Wednesday, Dec. 21, from 12-1 p.m., at Weymouth Funeral Home. Funeral services: following visitation at 1 p.m. at the funeral home chapel, by Rev. Dennis Worsham. Burial: Peninsula Memorial Park. Memorial contributions can be made to the American Heart Association, 500 E Plume St. Ste 110, Norfolk, Va. 23510 or the American Lung Association, 9702 Gayton Rd, #110, Richmond, Va. 23238. Arrangements: Weymouth Funeral Home.

L. Douglas Carson, 68, Fort Oglethorpe

L. Douglas Carson of Fort Oglethorpe died. He was 68.

He was the son of William Troy Carson Sr. and Blanche Tarvin Carson. He was an electronics repairman and guitarist.

Survivors include children, Cindy Gladden and Douglas E. Carson, and grandchildren, Zach and Mandy Gladden.

Memorial service: Sunday, at 3 p.m. at Tarvin’s Pocket, Pigeon Mountain. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Mildred Childers Dunwoody, 86, LaFayette

Mildred Childers Dunwoody of LaFayette died Friday, Dec. 16, 2011. She was 86.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Arthur Lewis Dunwoody; parents, William and Ora Childers; four sisters; and two brothers.

Survivors include several nieces and nephews; and great nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Sunday, Dec. 18, at 2 p.m. with service conducted by Rev. Jeremy Singletary. Burial: Naomi Cemetery. Pallbearers: Scott Keown, Johnny Brown Jr., Joseph Brown, Kenny Visage Jr., Ronald Whitley, and Mickey Whitley. Visitation: Saturday, Dec. 17, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Redith Ruth Autry Groves, 87, Chickamauga

Redith Ruth Autry Groves of Chickamauga died Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011. She was 87.

She was a lifelong resident of Chickamauga and was a member of Oakwood Baptist Church. Ruth was a nurse for Dr. Fletcher, Dr. McCall and Tri-County before retiring in the late 1970s. Ruth enjoyed being a caretaker of her family, friends, and the roses in her yard. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and sister who will be greatly missed.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James “Harlen” Groves; daughter, Shirley Groce; siblings, Bobbie Kellogg, Lee Autry, and Clarence Autry.

Survivors include her daughters, Faye Selfridge (Henry) of Arizona and Donna Yadon (Dan) of Florida; son, Mike Groves (Judy) of Chickamauga; brother, Ed Autry of Chickamauga; nine grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; 13 great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Sunday, Dec. 18, at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Bro. Jack Price officiating. Burial: Chickamauga City Cemetery. Visitation: Friday, Dec. 16, from 5-9 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 17, all day, and Sunday, Dec. 18, prior to the service. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Chickamauga.

Lynn Brown Mann, 63, LaFayette

Lynn Brown Mann of LaFayette died Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011. She was 63.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Edna Dover Brown, and brother, Michael Brown.

Survivors include her husband, Kenneth Mann of LaFayette; daughter, LaChrisha Simmons of Trion; son, LeDon Mann of LaFayette; grandchildren, Chase Simmons, Ally Simmons, Hunter Mann and Ashley Mann; and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside service: Saturday, Dec. 17, at 1 p.m. in Littlejohn Cemetery with service conducted by Rev. Clay Powell. Pallbearers: Glenn Mann, Red Hurtt, Wayne Mann, Earnie Schrader, Jim Beede and Johnny Human. Honorary pallbearers: nieces and nephews, employees of Trion Post Office. Burial: Littlejohn Cemetery. There will be no visitation. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Edward Schaefer Jr., 90, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Edward Schaefer Jr. of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Friday, Dec. 16, 2011. He was 90.

He was a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga area and attended Calvary Memorial Baptist Church in Ringgold. He was an Army veteran of World War II and was employed with South Central Bell for more than 36 years, before retiring in 1977. He always enjoyed working outdoors and was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, who will be sadly missed by all that knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Carrie Schaefer Sr.; first wife, Mary Elizabeth Schaefer; second wife, Louise Schaefer; stepson, Eddie Ray Brown, and sister, Mary E. Schaefer.

Survivors include his three daughers, Linda Bryant and Rebecca LeeAnn Brown, both of Chattanooga, Tenn., and Cheri Brackett of Helena, Ala.; brother, William F. Schaefer of Malene, Ala.; three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside service: Monday, Dec. 19, at 3 p.m. in the Hamilton Memorial Gardens with Rev. Clay Privett officiating. Visitation: Sunday, Dec. 18, after 5 p.m. and prior to leaving for the cemetery on Monday, Dec. 19, at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Michael David Scroggins, 9, Fort Oglethorpe

Michael David Scroggins of Fort Oglethorpe died Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2011, in his mother's arms. He was 9.

He attended Our Lady of the Mountain, Morris Hill Baptist Church and was in the fourth grade at Boynton Elementary School. David was a very precious child; his curiosity and love for life touched all those who had the privilege to be around him. David loved swimming and taking trips with his family. David enjoyed boating and building with his Papa. He is enjoying his new life with his Father in Heaven and will be remembered and missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his mother, Jennifer Scroggins; grandparents, David “Papa” and Sharon Scroggins; brothers, Kyler Joseph Scroggins and Aiden Josiah Scroggins.

Funeral service: Saturday, Dec. 17, at 11 a.m. in the chapel with Father Wise officiating. Visitation: Friday, Dec. 16, after 3 p.m. and prior to the service on Saturday, Dec. 17, at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Kathy Visage, 81, LaFayette

Kathy Visage of LaFayette died Friday, Dec. 16, 2011, at her home. She was 81.

She was a member of the LaFayette First United Methodist Church.

She had volunteered for Walker County Sheriff Auxillary, Pink Ladies at Hutcheson, Mental Health, Advocacy, retired from Roper, member of the order of the Eastern Star, Red Hats of LaFayette, was on the Walker County panel review, and a Cosa Volunteer.

Survivors include daughters, Sarah (Lamar) Craig, Deborah Doran of LaFayette; son, Alan E. Kubif of LaFayette; grandchildren, Monica Woodard of North Carolina, Jason Craig of Rock Spring, Emily Doran of LaFayette; six great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Monday, Dec. 19, at 3 p.m. conducted by Revs. David Autry and John Moore. Burial: LaFayette Memory Garden. Pallbearers: Zeke Mason, Terry Bradley, Eric Stephenson, Roger Hester, Greg Phillips, and Lamar Craig. Honorary pallbearer: Payton Gingles. Visitation: Sunday, Dec. 18, from 6-9 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, make donations to Wounded Warriors Foundation, 2115 Park Blvd., San Diego, Calif. 92101. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home.

William Jeffrey Young, 64, Ringgold

William Jeffrey Young of Ringgold died Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2011, at his residence. He was 64.

A resident of the Ringgold area for the past 15 years, he was formerly of Joliet, Ill. He was a former employee of East Tennessee Protective Services and was a veteran of the U.S. Army where he served during the Vietnam War.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Dorothy Risden Young.

Survivors include his wife, Staci Dorion Young of Ringgold; children, Richard Young (Christie) of Ringgold, Dorothy Ogden (Anthony) of Whitwell, Tenn., Billy Williams Young (Lori) of Marion, Ill., Zachary, Joshua, Rebecca, and Sara Chaney, all of Lockport, Ill., and Monica Spradling of Murphysboro, Ill.; 17 grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Friday, Dec. Dec. 9, at 1:30 p.m. graveside at Cartersville City Cemetery in Cartersville, Ill. Visitation: Friday, Dec. 9, from 11-1:30 p.m. at Riggin-Pillatsch and Burker Funeral Home in Cartersville, Ill.



Ellen Trula Hinds, 84, Trenton

Ellen Trula Hinds of Trenton died Monday, Dec. 12, 2011, at her home. She was 84.

She was a native of Knoxville, Tenn., and was raised in Rossville. She had lived in Trenton for many years, was a member of Victory Baptist Church and worked at Cherokee Cotton Mills, Burlington Woolen Mills in Cleveland, and Synthetic Industries.

She was preceded in death by two husbands, Richard Lee Crisp; and daughter, Julia Ann Black; sisters, Irene Hammer, Ruth Johnson, Naomi Hill, Mary Simms, and Sue Shuller; and brother, Floyd Maynett.

Survivors include daughters, Trula Young and Mary Rector of Valley Head, Ala.; sons, Forrest Lee Crisp of Hixson, Tenn. and Charles Crisp of Ft. Oglethorpe; several grandchildren; great-grandchildren; great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Thursday, Dec. 15, at 1 p.m. at the South Crest Chapel with Rev. Billy Garner officiating. Burial: Chattanooga National Cemetery. Visitation: Thursday, Dec. 15, from 10:30 a.m. until the service hour at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Ellen Trula Hinds please visit our Sympathy Store.

Stephanie Moore Jones, 51, Ringgold

Stephanie Moore Jones of Ringgold, won her three year battle with brain cancer and began her new life Monday, Dec. 12, 2011. She was 51.

A lifelong resident of the Ringgold area, she was a former employee of UTC where she worked for over 30 years and was a member of Spring Creek Church of God where she taught a Sunday school class. Stephanie loved to sing gospel music, and was dedicated to church and work.

She was preceded in death by her father, Gene Dawson Moore, and three siblings, Timmy, Casey and Amy Moore.

Survivors include her daughter, Brittany Jones of Rossville; mother, Maxine Touchstone Moore of Ringgold; maternal grandmother, Evelyn Touchstone of Ringgold; two sisters, Jessica Moore Wheeler (Jeff) of Chattanooga, Tenn., and Rebekah Moore of Ringgold; four brothers, Mitchell Moore (Angela) of Chickamauga, Thomas Moore (LeaAnna) of Kingsport, Tenn., Timothy Moore (Melinda) of Naples, Fla., and Micah Moore of Ringgold; two nieces, Leila and Alyssa; and two nephews, Dakota and Riley.

The family would like to say a special thanks to Hospice of Chattanooga, Manorhouse and Mary Scott for all they’ve done for Stephanie and her family during this time.

Funeral services: Thursday, Dec. 15, at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Bennie Mills officiating. Burial: Anderson Memorial Gardens. Visitation: Wednesday, Dec. 14, from 3-9 p.m. and Thursday, Dec. 15, from 10 a.m. until funeral time at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Ringgold.

Betty Parker, 74, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Betty Parker of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011. She was 74.

She was a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga and North Georgia area and was a member of Ridgedale Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Breast Cancer Foundation at 1220 B East Joppa Road Suite 332 Baltimore, MD 21286. Memorial services: Sunday, Dec. 11, at 4 p.m. in the Ridgedale Room of Ridgedale Baptist Church with Bill Owens officiating. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Betty Joyce Parker please visit our Sympathy Store.Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Mary L. Hill Sims, 80, Rossville

Mary L. Hill Sims of Rossville died Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, at a local health care facility. She was 80.

She was a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga and north Georgia area where she was owner and operator of Mary’s Beauty Shop and had worked at Lake Winnepesaukah. She was an avid Atlanta Braves fan and in her younger years she enjoyed roller skating and playing softball.

She was preceded in death by her sons, Mike and Ronnie Sims; parents, Otis and Lennie Hill; grandson, Jason Sims; and sisters, Irene Hemstreet and Nancy Day.

Survivors include her son, Barney Sims of Chattanooga, Tenn.; sister and brother-in-law, Rosetta and Jack Wilson of Ringgold; five grandchildren, Tiffany Sims, Kelley Johnson Sims, Nikki Sims, Kelley T. Sims, and Kevin Sims; and several great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Funeral services: Wednesday, Dec. 14, at 2 p.m. in the South Crest Chapel with Reverend Jim Bennett officiating. Burial: Lakewood East Memory Gardens. Visitation: Tuesday, Dec. 13, from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mary Sims please visit our Sympathy Store.

Terry Wayne Quarles, 59, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Terry W. Quarles of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011, at his residence. He was 59.

He was a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga and Cleveland area. His passions in life were his family, playing his guitar, fishing and enjoying the outdoors.

He was preceded in death by his father, James H. “Bud” Quarles Jr.

Survivors include his wife of 29 years, Bonnie Quarles; four children, Shaina Garner, Ariel (Daniel) Cowan, Zachary Quarles, and Nathan Quarles; mother, Frances Quarles; sister, Kathy Cannon; and six grandchildren.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to our friends at McCallie School for their care and concern during this difficult time and also to Hospice of Chattanooga for their help and care.

Funeral services: Sunday, Dec. 11, at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Burial: Pine Hill Cemetery in McDonald, Tenn. Visitation: Sunday, Dec. 11, from noon until the funeral hour at the funeral home. Online guest book available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Terry Wayne Quarles please visit our Sympathy Store.

Mary Taylor Dengler, Rossville

Mary Taylor Dengler of Rossville died, at a local hospital, Dec. 12, 2011.

Born in Miami, Fla. Oct. 14, 1934, she was preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Ruth Taylor. In 1952, she graduated from Miami Jackson High School. In 1966 she was selected as one of ten best-dressed career women by the Miami Herald. In 1971 she was selected woman of the year by Beta Sigma Phi. Mary was a member of Fellowship Baptist Church in Chickamauga, where she was a member of the Golden Bells Sunday school class. She worked at Rossville (Community) Bank, Rossville, for 16 years before retirement.

Survivors include her husband of 48 years, Richard Dengler; brother, Fred (Ana) Taylor; goddaughter, Julie Kimmel; godsons, David and Vance Wright; sister-in-law, Beverly Overby; several nieces; and nephews.

The family requests, in lieu of flower, donations be made to Hutcheson Hospice, Fort Oglethorpe, or Fellowship Baptist Church of Chickamauga, GA. 30707. In celebration of Mary’s graduation, a musical concert will be held at Monday, Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. at Fellowship Baptist Church of Chickamauga. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, LaFayette.

Buford “Sonny” Eugene Martin Jr., 64, Rossville

Buford “Sonny” Eugene Martin Jr. of Rossville died Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, at a local hospital. He was 64.

A lifelong resident of the north Georgia area, he was a former employee of Southeastern Salvage and was of the Baptist faith.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Buford E. Martin Sr. and Wilma Marie O’Brien Martin; Ex-wife, Martha Martin Vance; and two brothers, Fred and Part Frost.

Survivors include his ex-wife, Karen Lane Martin of Chattanooga, Tenn.; four children, Chris Castleberry (James) of Statonville, Michael Martin (May) of Atlanta, Danielle Martin Harris (Jeff) of LaFayette, Cory Martin (Sandy Gladney) Chattanooga, Tenn.; sister, Charlotte Cox (Wesley) of Ringgold; three grandchildren, Jamie Castleberry, Megan Castleberry and Alana Martin; one great-grandchild, Jaylee Castleberry; and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside services: Wednesday, Dec. 14, at 3 p.m. at Dalley Hills Cemetery with Rev. William Harris officiating. Visitation: Wednesday, Dec. 14, from noon until 2:30 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Boynton Lions Club Cemetery Fund. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Ft. Oglethorpe. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com.

Annie Kate Alexander, 81, LaFayette

Annie Kate Alexander of LaFayette died Monday, Dec. 12, 2011. She was 81.

She was preceded in death by her son, Rocky Alexander; parents William and Flavie Roach; sisters, Elsie Barrett, Louise Greene, and Johnnie Roll; brothers, Charlie Roach and Herman Roach.

Survivors include her daughters, Joan Dillard of North Carolina and Joann Camp of Resaca; sons, Fuzzy Alexander of LaFayette, Tommy Alexander of Cohutta, Rex Alexander of Trion, and Jimmy Alexander of LaFayette; sister, Dorothy Bryant of LaFayette; 23 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Funeral: Wednesday, Dec. 14, at 1 p.m. with the service conducted by Rev. Jim Powell. Burial: Mt. Olive Cemetery. Pallbearers: Nick Camp, Drew Cam, Drennon Alexander, Rusty Alexander, Stevie Montley, Tony Huges, Chad Millican and Tim Smith. Visitation: Tuesday, Dec. 13, from 6-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home.

Billy LeNeal Peek, 60, Rock Spring

Billy LeNeal Peek of Rock Spring died Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011. He was 60.

Survivors include his loving wife, Marie Peek; son, Jason and wife, Courtney Peek of Kentucky; stepfather, Clyde Stevens; brother, Steve Peek, both of Gaylesville, Ala.; granddaughter, Marian Peek; and several nieces and nephews.

Memorial service: Tuesday, Dec. 13, at 6 p.m. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, of LaFayette.

Doris Evelyn Estus Blevins, 67, LaFayette

Doris Evelyn Estus Blevins of LaFayette died Tuesday, Dec.13, 2011. She was 67.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James J.B. Blevins; mother, Dorothy Estus; granddaughter, Misty Blevins; and brother, Ronald Estus.

Survivors include father, Paul Estus; daughters, Rachel Daniel of Rising Fawn, Michelle Stuckey, of Henagar, Ala.; sons, Steve Blevins, and Lamar Blevins, both of LaFayette; sisters, Charlotte Collis, Kathy Jones, and Paula Worley, all of LaFayette; brothers, Kenneth Estus of Trion, Donnie Estus, of LaFayette, and Leonard Estus of Texas; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral: Friday, Dec. 16, at 2 p.m. by Revs. Bud Martenn and Tim Jones. Burial: Center Point Cemetery. Visitation: Wednesday, Dec. 14, from 6-9 p.m. and all day on Thursday, Dec. 15, at the funeral home. Arrangements: Arrangements are by Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

John Earl Ramsey Sr., 86, Chattanooga, Tenn.

John Earl Ramsey Sr. of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011. He was 86.

He was a lifelong resident of Chattanooga and was a member of Hillcrest Baptist Church. John served his country in the U.S. Marines during World War II in the Pacific campaign and retired from E.T. and W. N.C. Transport. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother who will be greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Oliver and Irene Anderson Ramsey; and sister, Frances Eugenia Ramsey Shipp.

Survivors include his children, Jennifer Ramsey of Ringgold, Cindy Ramsey Adair (Gerry) of Dawsonville, John Ramsey Jr. (Rita) of Ooltewah, Tenn., and Mark Ramsey of Nashville, Tenn.; sister Marguerite Dorothy Ramsey Brown of Chattanooga, Tenn.; 12 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Saturday, Dec. 17, at 1 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Bro. Bobby Wilson officiating. Burial: Hamilton Memorial Gardens. Visitation: Friday, Dec. 16, from 2-9 p.m. and prior to the services Saturday, Dec. 17. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Ft. Oglethorpe.