Betty Cox, 79, Fort Oglethorpe
Betty Cox of Ft. Oglethorpe died Wednesday, May 11, 2011. She was 79.
She was a native of Athens, Tenn., and had lived most of her life in the north Georgia area. Mrs. Cox was a 1951 graduate of City High School where she was captain of the basketball team. She was a member of Lakeview Presbyterian Church and had retired from Barry Corporation to work in the family business, Ray’s Tool and Supply. Her passions in life were her family, playing basketball in high school and going on cruises with her husband.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Estella Bridges.
Survivors include her beloved husband of 60 years, Raymond Cox; three children, Ray (Cathy) Cox of Ringgold, Billie (Stephen) Hayes of Chattanooga, Tenn., and Carroll (Randy) Hixon of Ft. Oglethorpe; two grandchildren, Mickey Cox of Rock Spring and Christopher (Jessica) Hixon of Ft. Oglethorpe, and caregiver, Kathy Long.
Funeral services: Friday, May 13, at 12:30 p.m. in the South Crest Chapel. Burial: Chattanooga National Cemetery. Visitation: Friday, May 13, from 10:30 a.m. until the funeral hour 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.
Shirley Keef Jeffery, 79, Fort Oglethorpe
Shirley Keef Jeffery of Ft. Oglethorpe died Wednesday, May 11, 2011, in a local hospital.
Shirley was a homemaker and had been employed by Olan Mills and Conagra. She was a member of Whiteside Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Willard E. Jeffery Sr.; parents, Fred and Josephine Higdon Keef; six sisters and four brothers.
Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Trudy and Lee Knight of Chickamauga; son, Willard E. “Buddy” Jeffery Jr. of Evensville, Tenn.; granddaughter, Stacie Jeffery Gipson of Navarre, Fla.; stepgranddaughters, Melissa Knight and Stacy Knight; stepgreat-grandchildren, Casey Hamby, Cassidy Richards and Christopher Lee Hannah, all of Crossville, Tenn.; brother, Earl Keef; sisters, Joyce McNabb and Clara “Pug” Prince, all of Whiteside, Tenn.; very special friend, Donna Gudel of Soddy Daisy, Tenn., and many special nieces, nephews, friends and caregivers at Heritage Healthcare of Ft. Oglethorpe, including Carla Perez, whose loving care meant so much to the family.
Funeral services: Friday, May 13, at 2 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Edmond Stallings officiating. Burial: Hooker Cemetery, Wildwood. Pallbearers: Buddy Jeffery, Dave Jeffery, Lacy Privette, Donnie McNabb, Steve Bennett and Tim Keef. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.
Sharon Claudette Smith Mason, 63, Rossville
Sharon Claudette Smith Mason of Rossville died Wednesday, May 11, 2011, in a local hospital after a battle with cancer. She was 63.
Sharon was strong in her faith, and maintained it throughout her battle. Even so, Lord, not our will but thine be done. We now rest assured that paradise is her new home. She will be loved and missed by all the many people whose lives were touched by her presence.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Katherine Knight, and husband and father of her children, Melvin Smith.
Survivors include her husband, Larry Mason; children, Gary Smith Sr., Angela Smith and Shane Smith; grandchildren, Nikki, Kelly, Ashby, Andrew, Aubrey and Asher; brothers, William and Daniel; sisters, Sheila and Katerinda; many nieces, nephews and friends.
Funeral services: Saturday, May 14, at 12:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Fred Santana officiating. Burial: Tennessee- Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Friday, May 13, from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. and after 9 a.m. Saturday, May 14, at the funeral home. Online guest book is available www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.
Posted Wednesday, May 11, 2011
William Shorty McSpadden, 86, LaFayette
William Shorty McSpadden of LaFayette died Saturday, May 7, 2011. He was 86.
He was preceded in death by parents, Arthur and Dollie Mae Miller McSpadden; grandson, Billy McSpadden; brother, Harrison McSpadden; nephews, Doug McSpadden and Lloyd McSpadden, and niece, Joanne Robertson.
Survivors include his loving wife of 68 years, Juanita Douglas McSpadden; son, David (Tammie) McSpadden of Michigan; sisters, Inez Buckman of Rossville and Allene King of Chattanooga, Tenn.; granddaughter, Luci McSpadden, and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral service: Tuesday, May 10, at noon, with service conducted by Revs. Jay Neal and Rick Frazier. Burial: LaFayette Memory Gardens. Visitation: Monday, May 9, from 6-8 pm. at the funeral home. Pallbearers: Wayne Kersey, John Kersey, Jack Kersey, Danny Wallin, Joe Hancock and Jay Brown. Honorary pallbearers: Bobby Cody, Clarence Morrison and Hiram Desai. Special thanks to the staff of Heritage Healthcare of Fort Oglethorpe. Memorial contributions can be made to the Gordon Lake Wesleyan Church or Heritage Healthcare of Fort Oglethorpe. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.
Posted Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Jackie Eugene Mitchell, 64, LaFayette
Jackie Eugene Mitchell of LaFayette died Monday, May 9, 2011, in Memorial Hospital in Chattanooga, Tenn. He was 64.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Shelley and Jeanette McCormack Mitchell, and a brother, Larry Mitchell.
He was a member of the Baptist church. He worked many years for Chattanooga Glass Company and in recent years was a leather crafter who made belts and buckles for Hank Williams Jr., Alabama, their fan clubs and hundreds of others. Jack was someone who could make anyone smile, and he was a friend to everyone. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.
Survivors include his wife, Wanda Dockery Mitchell; son and daughter-in-law, Jack Jr. and Angela Mitchell; daughters and sons-in-law, Jennifer and Shelby Dennison and Angie and Josh Clark; sisters and brothers-in-law, Jean and Danny Bowman and Faye and James Gilreath; brother and sister-in-law, Ron and Deloris Mitchell; grandchildren, Cody and Chelsea Dennison, Courtney Dallas, Heather Mitchell, Dakota and Daniel Tucker, Dylan and Austin Deering and Zoe Clark, and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral service: Thursday, May 12, at 4 p.m. with Bro. David Thompson officiating. Visitation: Wednesday, May 11, from 5-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial: LaFayette Cemetery. Pallbearers: Joey Bowman, Michael Bowman, Wade Gilreath, Paul Gilreath, Tim Powell, Joe Cauthen, Ronnie Mitchell Jr. and Matt Palmer. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.
Thomas Marcus “Murk” Blackwell, 88, Chickamauga
Thomas Marcus “Murk” Blackwell of Chickamauga died Saturday, May 7, 2011. He was 88.
He was born on June 5, 1922, in Benton, Polk County, Tenn., to the late August and Ena Wimberley Blackwell. He moved to Chickamauga at the age of seven and attended Chickamauga City Schools.
He joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1940 at the age of 17 and served with the 1st Marine Division in the Pacific through World War II, being with the first wave on Guadalcanal in 1942. During the Korean Conflict he was part of the famous “Frozen Chosen.” He retired from the Corps after more than 20 years of honorable and faithful service to our country in 1960. During his service, he received the following medals: Good Contact, American Defense, President Unit Citation, Asiatic-Pacific, American Area, World War II Victory, Korean Service with 3 Stars, UN Service and National Defense.
He continued employment at Camp Pendleton, Calif., as a civil service employee for another nineteen years. He moved back to Chickamauga in 1980 and continued to work until age 82. He had been employed by Shoney’s in Fort Oglethorpe, Granny’s Restaurant in Rock Spring, and as a driver for the Walker County Transit Authority. He attended First Baptist Church of Chickamauga.
Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Diora Howard, John O. Barker, Bonnie Best, Emory Barker, Blanche Boyles and Laverne Hensley.
Survivors include his daughter and son-in-law, Alexandra and Jonathan Allen of Oceanside, Calif.; son and daughter-in-law, Emory and Linda Blackwell of Honduras; granddaughters and their spouses, Jennifer and Derek Thomas, Christina and Jesse Weller and Megan Blackwell; great-grandsons, Ryland and Knox Thomas, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation: Tuesday, May 10, from 2-9 p.m. and Wednesday, May 11, after 10 a.m. until the service. Funeral services: Wednesday, May 11, at 2 p.m. in the chapel with Dan Whitaker and Chris Morgan officiating. Burial: Chickamauga Cemetery with military honors. Pallbearers: Buddy Shields, Hal Shields, Colin Shields, Devin Shields, David Best and Steve Ellison. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Buddy Shields for his devotion as Murk’s caregiver for the last several years. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, Chickamauga.
Acie Robert Bethune, 92, Cleveland, Tenn.
Acie Robert Bethune of Cleveland, Tenn., died Wednesday, May 4, 2011. He was 92.
He was born in Grove Oak, Ala., but had lived in the north Georgia area for most of his life before moving to the Cleveland area in 2000. He was of the Church of God faith and loved fishing, camping, and watching sports. He was also an Army veteran of WWII and retired from Yellow Freight in 1982 after more than 29 years of service as a truck driver.
He was preceded in death by two sons, Royal and James Bethune; two grandsons, Donnie Bethune and Chris Womble, and daughter in law, Jessie Bethune.
Survivors include his loving wife of more than 69 years, Mable Gilbreth Bethune of Cleveland, Tenn.; three sons and daughters-in-law, Kenneth (Ruby) Bethune and Michael (Lecia) Bethune, all of LaFayette, and Billy (Patricia) Bethune of Cleveland, Tenn.; nine grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral service: Saturday, May 7, at 12:30 p.m. in the chapel with Larry Morrison and Ricky Smith officiating. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Friday, May 6, after 3 p.m. and prior to the service on Saturday, May 7, at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.
Larry Eugene Burris, 58, Ringgold
Lieutenant Larry Eugene Burris of Ringgold died Sunday, May 8, 2011, at his home. He was 58.
He was born in Sweetwater, Tenn., to the late Earl and Blanche (Thomas) Burris. Larry was in law enforcement for 38 years, and served with Catoosa County Sheriff’s Department for 28 of them. He was of the Baptist faith.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Loy Burris.
Survivors include his children, Dennis Burris of Ooltewah, Tenn., Joseph Burris and Mardi Burris; loving companion, Elaine McNish, all of Ringgold; siblings, Troy Burris of Fort Oglethorpe, Wilma Mount of Rossville and Brenda Vann of Ringgold; grandchildren, Sadie, Trinity and Ryanne Burris, and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services: Thursday, May 12, at 11 a.m. in the chapel with Chaplains Keith McLeod and Neal Brown officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens-South. Visitation: Tuesday, May 10, after 2 p.m., and all day Wednesday, May 11, at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home-Fort Oglethorpe.
Sarah L. “Sue” Carr, 84, Rossville
Sarah L. “Sue” Carr of Rossville died Tuesday, April 26, 2011. She was 84.
She was retired from Chubb Insurance in Chattanooga, Tenn., following 35 years of service.
Survivors include her sister, Barbara Smith of Ringgold, and several nieces and nephews.
It was her wish to be cremated and to be taken to her beloved Hawaii, where a memorial service will be held at a later date. There will be no visitation 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.
Jack Warren Estep Jr., 61, Ringgold
Jack Warren Estep Jr. of Ringgold died Wednesday, April 27, 2011. He was 61.
A native of Muscogee, Okla., he had lived in the Ringgold area for the past 23 years and was formerly of Oregon. Jack attended Cherokee Valley Baptist Church and was owner and operator of Jack’s Auto Repair.
He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Warren Estep Sr., and two brothers, John and David Estep.
Survivors include by his wife, Etta Lorrain Allen Estep of Ringgold; mother, Vivian Lemaster Estep of Las Vegas, Nev.; four children, Jackie Joyce Estep Burton (Jeff) of Ringgold, Carol Lynn Estep (Bob Palmer) of Ringgold, Tim Estep (Doylette) of Ringgold and Veronica Ann Long (Robby) of Ringgold; two sister, Pat Rhoermen (Doug) of Las Vegas, Nev., and Sharon Perry (Jack) of Las Vegas, Nev.; brother, Ralph Etstep (Carrie) of W.V.; nine grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral service: Friday, May 13, at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Franky Ridley officiating. Burial: Anderson Memorial Gardens. Visitation: Thursday, May 12, from 5-9 pm. and Friday, May 13, until the funeral time at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Ringgold.
Jerry “Root” Holcomb, 67, LaFayette
Jerry “Root” Holcomb of LaFayette died Thursday, May 5, 2011. He was 67.
Survivors include his daughter and husband, Kelly (Chris) Oliver of Orange Park, Fla.; sister, Sara Holcomb (Joe) Dingus of Chatsworth; brothers, Larry (Ada) Holcomb of Chickamauga and Johnny (Betty) Holcomb of LaFayette; grandchildren, Hannah Oliver (Bryan) Tanner, Aaron Oliver, Seth Oliver and Elijah Oliver; great-grandson, Grayson Wyatt Tanner, and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral service: Tuesday, May 10, at 10 a.m. in the chapel with Rev. Ricky Clack officiating. Burial: LaFayette Cemetery. Visitation: Monday, May 9, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Pallbearers: Joel, Adam, Joshua, Kelan, Matt, Zeke Snyder, Keith Kinsey, Seth, Elijah and Aaron Oliver. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.
Judy Faye Kilgore Queen, 59, Chickamauga
Judy Faye Kilgore Queen of Chickamauga died Wednesday, April 27, 2011. She was 59.
She was a lifelong resident of Chickamauga and was a member of Covenant Life Worship Center in Chickamauga. She was the owner/operator of Advantage Clothing in Trenton, Rossville and Fort Oglethorpe and enjoyed her time decorating her house.
She was preceded in death by her father, Chester Kilgore; stepfather, Joe Wiley, and grandparents, Johnnie and Mamie Swindle.
Survivors include her husband of 27 years, Lessley Queen; mother, Erma J. Wiley; son, Tony Barbee (Felicia) of Chickamauga; stepsons, Brian Queen and Darin (Lori) Queen, all of Rock Spring; sisters, Peggy J. (Joe) Hulsey of Goodlettsville, Tenn., Joan (Gerald) Bingham of Cottontown, Tenn., and Linda G. (Donnie) Haney of Chickamauga; grandchildren, McCain, Madison, Harrison, Josh, Nick, Doni, Ryan, Garrett and Dylan; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral service: Saturday, April 30, at 3 p.m., at Covenant Life Worship Center with Rev. Jamie Chant and Bro. Dennis Chambers officiating. Burial: Chickamauga City Cemetery. Visitation: April 29, from 4-9 p.m. and prior to leaving for the church Saturday, April 30. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Chickamauga.
Posted Monday, May 9, 2011
William K. Edgeman, 65, Rock Spring
William K. Edgeman of Rock Spring died Friday, May 6, 2011, at home. He was 65.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William (Bill) and Elwyn Edgeman, and daughter, Carol Edgeman.
Survivors include wife of 45 years, Nancy Edgeman of Rock Spring; daughter, Melanie (Jim) White of Montgomery, Ala.; sons, John (Susan) Edgeman and Eric (Kimmie) Edgeman, both of Rock Spring; grandchildren, Austin Fee and Gage, Joe, Will and Elizabeth Edgeman; brother, Steve Edgeman; sister, Marilyn Helton; brother-in-law, Donald (Beverly) Beaty of Chicago, Ill.; sister-in-law, Jane (Calvin) Clark and Christine Beaty, all of Rock Spring, and several nieces and nephews.
Also special thanks to the Hamilton Hospice of Dalton.
Funeral service: Sunday, May 8, at 2 p.m. with service conducted by Garland Hullender and spiritual best friend, Bill Hardin. Burial: Wood Station Cemetery. Visitation: Saturday, May 7, from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Pallbearers: David Beaty, Dennis Beaty, Ricky Beaty, Bruce Beaty, Scott Beaty and Tim Clark. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.
Gladys Alberta Hodge, 86, Rossville
Gladys Alberta Hodge of Rossville, died Friday, May 6, 2011, in a local hospital. She was 86.
She was a native of Alabama and had been a resident of north Georgia for the past 60 years. Mrs. Hodge was retired from Dupont after 30 years of service and was a volunteer at North Georgia Commodities.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Prince Gist and Laura Clark; son, Roy Hodge; daughter, Louise Hodge; sister, Erline Snodgrass; grandson, Phillip Hodge, and husband of 32 years, Mack Hodge.
Survivors include son, Mack (Barbara) Hodge of Lookout Mountain; daughter, Barbara (John) Guider of Harrison, Tenn.; sister, Carolyn (John) Gamble of Ringgold; brother, Kenneth (Joan) Gist of Section, Ala.; daughter-in-law, Joyce Hodge of East Ridge, Tenn.; 10 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; nine great-greatgrandchildren and nieces and nephews.
Funeral services: Monday, May 9, at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with David Sampson officiating. Burial: City Cemetery, Stevenson, Ala. Visitation: Saturday, May 7, from 4-8 p.m. and 10-11 a.m. Monday, May 9. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.
Helen Louise Carlock Hunt, 86, Chattanooga, Tenn.
Helen Louise Carlock Hunt, formerly of Chattanooga, Tenn., died May 6, 2011, in Marietta. She was 86.
Helen was born on March 9, 1925, in Soddy-Daisy, Tenn., to Thomas and Marie Settles Carlock. She grew up in Chattanooga, Cleveland and Rockwood and graduated from Rockwood High School. She attended Chattanooga College of Business and worked as a secretary and office manager in many companies.
Helen was a loving wife and sister and a special aunt. She married Bob Hunt in 1952. Their life together was full of spirit, friends, good food, travel and Auburn football. Helen and Bob founded a series of manufacturing companies which took them from Chattanooga to Dallas, Atlanta and Sarasota. Upon retirement they moved to Auburn, Ala. Each football Saturday would find Helen presiding over an amazing tailgate party at space No. 55.
She was preceded in death by her husband William Bryan “Bob” Hunt Jr.; sister, Martha Carlock Evatt, and brother, John Carlock.
Survivors include her sister, Pat Carlock Henderson (Clarence) of Marietta; nieces, Allison Evatt, Nan Carlock Bishop and Beth Carlock Baddour; nephews, Scott Evatt and Todd Henderson, and several great-nieces and great-nephews.
To share your condolences, visit www.lane-southcrestchapel.com.
Graveside services: Thursday, May 12, at 12:30 p.m. at the Chattanooga National Cemetery. Visitation: Wednesday, May 11, from 4-7 p.m. on and 10:30-11:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 12, at the funeral home. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.
Larry Edward Payne, 57, Rossville
Larry Edward Payne of Rossville died Saturday May 7, 2011, at a local hospital. He was 57.
A lifelong resident of the north Georgia area, he was a former employee of Scott Brown Painting and was of the Baptist faith.
He was preceded in death by his father, Walter Hubert Payne Jr.
Survivors include his mother and stepfather; Catherine and Jesse Roberts of East Ridge, Tenn.; two sons; Scott and Chris Payne, both of East Ridge; two brothers; Dwight Payne (Kathy) and Ronald Payne of East Ridge; niece, Stephanie Hawksworth (David) of Ringgold; nephew; Michael Payne of Ringgold; one great-niece and two great-nephews.
Funeral services: Tuesday, May 10, at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with Greg Nash officiating. Burial: Calvary Gardens Mausoleum. Visitation: Monday, May 9, from 4-9 p.m. and Tuesday, May 10, until funeral time at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Ft. Oglethorpe.
Elgie Spates Sr., 81, Chickamauga
Elgie Spates Sr. of Chickamauga died Wednesday, May 4, 2011, in Chattanooga, Tenn. He was 81.
He was a member of Cove Road Church of God and worked for the National Forest Service.
He was preceded in death by his son, Elgie Spates Jr.
Survivors include his loving family, his wife of 64 years, Rosie Mae Spates of Chickamauga; eight daughters, Towanda Wooten of Austin, Texas, Sheran Jones of Jackson, Mich., Carolyn (Tolliver) Suttle, Celeste (Bradford) Hinton of LaFayette, Teresa Rogers of Rome, Rosie Lee Ransom, Kathleen (Thomas ) Lewis of Chickamauga and Henrietta (Ulysses) Hawkins of Round Rock, Texas; one son, Wilburn Earl (Brenda) Spates of Lansing, Mich.; sister, Carlene Spates; two brothers-in-law, Frank (Jessie) Langston and James (Lonnie) Langston of LaFayette; 19 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
Funeral service: Monday, May 9, at 7 p. m. at Cove Road Church of God in LaFayette with James Brown officiating. Visitation: at the church one hour before the service. Arrangements: Willis Funeral Home Inc., Dalton. Online guest book is available at www.willisfuneralhomedalton.com.
Carolyn S. Wright, 49, Rossville
Carolyn S. Wright of Rossville died Saturday, May 7, 2011, in a local hospital. She was 49.
Carolyn worked as an administrative assistant at Hutcheson Medical Center. Her children and grandchildren were the loves of her life.
She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Judy Reed, and granddaughter, Janisha Binford.
Survivors include her husband, Gilbert Wright; daughters, Misty Holloway, Brandy Bennett and Mellisa Holloway; sons, Michael and Jason Wright; 11 advanced grandchildren; sister, Elizabeth Brown, and brother, Jon Moses.
Funeral services Wednesday, May 11, at 2 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. James Barker officiating. Burial: Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation: Tuesday, May 10, 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.
Posted Friday, May 6, 2011
Roy Cantrell Graham Jr., 82, Rossville
Roy Cantrell Graham Jr. of Rossville died Wednesday, May 4, 2011. He was 82.
He was born in Milstead, to the late Roy and Lucille Graham, and was preceded in death by his brother, Charles.
Roy served his country in the U.S. Navy, retired from Rossville Carpet Dyeing after 20 years of service, and was a member of Canaan Baptist Church in Chattanooga.
Survivors include his loving wife of 62 years, Margaret Graham; children, Alan (Karen) Graham of LaFayette, Patty (Steve) Brackett of Sale Creek, David (Sandra) Graham, Larry (Kim) Graham, all of Rossville; brother, Eddie (Judy) Graham of Rome; aunt, Katherine Murray, of Rome; nine grandchildren; several great grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.
Funeral services: Friday, May 6, at 2:30 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Harold Taylor officiating. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Thursday, May 5, after 4 p.m., and prior to the service Friday, May 6. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.
Ronnie Dewayne Kight, 45, LaFayette
Ronnie Dewayne Kight of LaFayette died Tuesday, May 3, 2011. He was 45.
He was born in Chambers County, Ala. and had resided in LaFayette for the past 12 years. He had worked for the Shred-it Company as a salesman. He was a member of the Cowboy Church in LaFayette. He enjoyed raising animals, especially English bulldogs.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Gloria Sue Poe Kight and father-in-law, Richard Head.
Survivors include his wife of 23 years, Andrea Kay Head Kight; sons, Devin (fiancée: Hannah Millican), Cameron, and Seth Kight; grandson, Emery Kight, all of LaFayette; father, Joseph L. Kight of Ringgold; brother, Keith (Rhonda) Kight of LaFayette, Ala., Connie (Gene) Striblin of Valley, Ala.; and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from.
Visitation: Thursday, May 5, from 2-9 p.m. at the funeral home and Friday, May 6, an hour prior to the service at 3 p.m. at the Cowboy Church in LaFayette with pastor Randy Harden officiating. Burial: LaFayette Memory Gardens. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, LaFayette. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com.
Rhea Garrett McClanahan, 86, Ringgold
Rhea Garrett McClanahan of Ringgold died Wednesday, April 28, 2011. He was 86.
He had been a resident of Ringgold for over 50 years and was a member of Ringgold United Methodist Church. Mr. McClanahan was a veteran of the U. S. Marine Corp, serving in many of the theatres of the Pacific Campaign in World War II. He received his masters degree from MTSU and had been a science teacher and also had been a principal of several schools before retiring as principal of Tiger Creek Elementary School.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Hattie Reese McClanahan; wife, Martha Gene Combs McClanahan; and sisters, Ruby, Pearl and Opal.
Survivors include daughters, Melba (Steven) Weese of Canton, Vida Rush of Tunnel Hill; brothers-in-law, William J. Combs of Chattanooga, Tenn., John B. Combs of Tallapoosa; grandchildren, Dylan Rush, Will Rush, and Rachel Weese.
Funeral services: Tuesday, May 3, at 2:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. John Purrington officiating. Burial: Anderson Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Catoosa County Children’s Fund, P. O. Box 130, Ringgold, Georgia 30736. Visitation: Tuesday, May 3, after 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.
Clyde F. Prather, 85, Rossville
Clyde F. Prather of Rossville died Wednesday, May 04, 2011. He was 85.
He was born in Rossville to the late Harold and Ora Prather, and was preceded in death by his son, David Prather, and his wife, Dora Sue Clayton Prather.
Clyde was a member of the Church of Nativity in Fort Oglethorpe, American Legion Post No. 159, and Disabled American Veterans.
Survivors include his children, Patricia Huffaker of Rossville, Deborah (Ed) Dodski of LaFayette, Ronnie (Vivian) Prather of Rossville; sister, Catherine Ford of Crowell of Texas; numerous grandchildren; great-grandchildren; great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Graveside services: Friday, May 6, at 11 a.m. at Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park with Rev. Betty Latham officiating. Visitation: Thursday, May 5, after 1 p.m. and prior to the service Friday, May 6. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.
Sammy Ray Trammel, 79, Trion
Sammy Ray Trammel of Trion died Wednesday, May 4, 2011, at a local nursing home following extensive surgery. He was 79.
He was preceded in death by parents, Charlie and Lena Trammel; and brother, Frank Trammel.
Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Bettie Tinch Trammel; son and daughter-in-law, Danny and Wanda Trammel of Trion; granddaughter, Brooklyn Trammel of Manhatten, N.Y.; sister, Lucille Turman of LaFayette; sister-in-law, Jo Trammel of Trion.
Funeral service: Thursday, May 5, at 2 p.m. with service conducted by Rev. Sam Barrett. Pallbearers: Kenneth (Whitty) Pettigrew, Keith Thomas, Jerry Thurman, John Lesperance, Charlie Sprayberry and Johnny Brimer. The family wishes to express its sincere appreciation to the caring staff of LaFayette Heath Care and United Hospice of Calhoun for their excellenct care and compassion. Visitation: Thursday, May 5, from 1-2 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial: Bryan Cemetery. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home.
Doris Britt, 74, Trenton
Doris Britt of Trenton died Wednesday, May 4, 2011, in a local hospice facility. She was 74.
A native of Long Island, N.Y., Mrs. Britt was born on June 20, 1936 to the late John and Frances Cersosim Groschwitz. She was retired from Blue Cross/Blue Shield following 36 years of service and was a faithful member of St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Linda Owens; son, Douglas Britt; and brother, Jackie Groschwitz.
Survivors include her husband of 55 years, Joseph Britt; daughters, Yvonne (Mike) Gothard, Beverly Guess, and Norma (Bill) Ramey; son-in-law, James Owens; grandchildren, Stephanie Morgan (Kevin) Massey, Mark Owens, Robert “B.J.” Gothard, April Gothard (Lee) Rogers, Justin Guess, James Guess, Jonathan Rhodes, Kyle Rhodes, Tabitha Rhodes, Caylon Ramey, Ian Ramey, Cathryn Ramey, Jammie Owens and Stephanie Owens; great-grandchildren, Whitley Baker, Keaton Massey, Jackson Owens, Tripp Rogers, nda Madison Gregory; sister, Nancy Groschwitz; several nieces, nephews, and a host of beloved extended family members.
The family would like to express their appreciation to the staff of Dade Health & Rehabilitation and Hospice of Chattanooga for their compassionate care.
Services: Saturday, May 7, at 2 p.m. in the South Crest Chapel with Monsignor Leo P. Herbert and Rev. Dwight Martin officiating. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com.
Visitation: Saturday, May 7, from noon until the service hour at the funeral home. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.
Frances Louise Williams, 75, Flintstone
Frances Louise Williams of Flintstone died Thursday, May 5, 2011. She was 75.
She was born in Polk County to the late Alfred and Christine Bentley, but has lived in the Flintstone area for the last 48 years. She was a member of Flintstone Baptist Church and enjoyed gardening, quilting and was an excellent cook. She was very strong in her Christian faith and was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, who will be sadly missed by all who knew her.
Survivors include her loving husband of more than 57 years, Fred Williams of Flintstone; three children and spouses, Sharon Weitz-Emerling (Bobby) of Ringgold, Keith (Hilary) Williams of Calhoun, and Donna (Paul) Waters of Grayson; brother and sister-in-law, Edward (Carol) Bentley of Cedartown; sister, Inez Bishop of Roopville; 14 grandchildren; six great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services: Sunday, May 8, at 3 p.m. in the Fort Oglethorpe Chapel with Rev. James Davis officiating. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Saturday, May 7, from 2-8 p.m. and prior to the service on Sunday, May 8, at the funeral home. Arrangements: W. L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.
Posted Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Edward Paul “Ed” Brown, 58, Chattanooga, Tenn.
Edward Paul “Ed” Brown of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Sunday, May 1, 2011. He was 58.
He was employed as a security guard with Walden Security.
Private services will be held. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.
Earl Leighton Cope, 71, Chattanooga, Tenn.
Earl Leighton Cope of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Tuesday, May 3, 2011. He was 71.
He was born in Dekalb County, Tenn., to the late Verbal Homer and Zelma Irene Cantrell Cope. He had been a resident of Chattanooga for most of his life.
Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Bobbie Whitton.
Survivors include his brother-in-law, W.O. Whitton of Harrison, Tenn., and nephew, Jason Whitton of Chattanooga, Tenn.
No services are to be held at this time. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.
Billy Guest Sr., 82, Rock Spring
Billy Guest Sr. of Rock Spring died Tuesday, May 3, 2011, in a local hospital. He was 82.
He had been a resident of the north Georgia area for the past 60-plus years. Mr. Guest was a member of Peavine Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon. He was retired from Guest Trim Shop.
Survivors include his loving wife of 59 years, Wilma McClain Guest; son, Billy (Kim) Guest Jr. of Cartersville; daughters, Martha Jean Brooks and Linda (Bert) Chastain, both of Ringgold; sister, Mona Ophelia (Doyle) McBride of Rock Spring; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services: Friday, May 6, at 1 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Steve Anthony officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardnens, South. Visitation: Thursday, May 5, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at
www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.
Posted Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Debra Ann “Debbie” Cook, 48, Rossville
Debra Ann Cook of Rossville died Friday, April 22, 2011. She was 48.
She was born in Jamestown, Tenn., and had lived in the Rossville area for most of her life. She was of the Baptist faith. She was a devoted mother and grandmother who will be sadly missed by all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Mable and Raymond Gamble.
Survivors include her father, Don Chambers of Henegar, Ala.; mother, Rose Cutshall of Rossville; daughter and fiance, Cassy Chambers and Scotty Gosnell of Chickamauga; son, Billy Skiles of Rossville; four brothers, Billy, Danny, Mark and Donny Chambers, all of Rossville; five grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral service: Wednesday, April 27, at 4 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Bro. Fred Burton officiating. Visitation: Wednesday, April 27, from 1 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Son Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.
Myron “Papa Lum” Edwards, 77, East Ridge, Tenn.
Myron “Papa Lum” Edwards of East Ridge, Tenn. died Monday, May 2, 2011. He was 77.
He was born to the late Herman and Della Edwards in Columbiana, Ala. Mr. Edwards retired from CSX Railroad. He was of the Nazarene faith, a mason,and a shriner’s clown known as “Sweet Lum.”
Survivors include his wife, Helen Edwards of East Ridge; sister, Nyra Edwards; brothers, Billy and Vic Edwards, all of Alabama; several grandchildren and nieces and nephews.
Graveside funeral services: Wednesday, May 4, at 11 a.m. in Lakewood Memory Gardens South, Rossville. Visitation: Tuesday, May 3, from 12-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: W. L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.
Bill G. Hammondtree, 88, Rossville
Bill G. Hammontree of Rossville died Monday, May 2, 2011, in a local health care facility. He was 88.
He was a lifelong resident of north Georgia and member of Brainerd Baptist Church. Mr. Hammontree retired from T. U. Parks as a supervisor and was a veteran of World War II. He was a member of Rossville Masonic Lodge #397 F&AM, Chattanooga Scottish Rite and the Alhambra Shrine Temple. Mr. Hammontree was also a member of Carpenter’s Local #74.
Survivors include his wife, Frances Hammontree; son, Cecil Hammontree of Soddy-Daisy; daughter, Sheila Lively of Ringgold; sister, Sarah Jane Rudd of Savannah; grandchildren, Casey Hammontree of Signal Mountain, Tenn., Kenny Hammontree of Hixson, Tenn., and Jenny Lively Blankenship and Cindy Lively McGee, both of Ringgold, and eight grandchildren.
Funeral services: Thursday, May 5, at 12:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Billy Lowery Jr. officiating. Burial: National Cemetery. Visitation: Wednesday, May 4, from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Bethel Bible Village, 3001 Hamil Road, Hixson, Tenn. 37343 or Hospice of Chattanooga, P. O. Box 19269, Chattanooga, Tenn. 37416. The family would like to extend special thanks to NHC of Rossville and Hospice of Chattanooga. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.
Rhea Garrett McClanahan, 86, Ringgold
Rhea Garrett McClanahan of Ringgold died Wednesday, April 27, 2011. He was 86.
He had been a resident of Ringgold for over 50 years and was a member of Ringgold United Methodist Church. Mr. McClanahan was a veteran of the U. S. Marine Corps, serving in many of the theatres of the Pacific Campaign in World War II. He received his masters degree from MTSU and had been a science teacher and a principal of several schools before retiring as principal of Tiger Creek.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Hattie Reese McClanahan; wife, Martha Gene Combs McClanahan, and sisters, Ruby, Pearl and Opal.
Survivors include daughters, Melba (Steven) Weese of Canton and Vida Rush of Tunnel Hill; brother-in-laws, William J. Combs of Chattanooga, Tenn., and John B. Combs of Tallapoosa, and grandchildren, Dylan Rush, Will Rush and Rachel Weese.
Funeral services: Tuesday, May 3, at 2:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. John Purrington officiating. Burial: Anderson Cemetery. Visitation: Tuesday, May 3, after 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Catoosa County Children’s Fund, P. O. Box 130, Ringgold, Georgia 30736. Online guest book is available www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.
Joel Timothy Swanson, 57, Trion
Joel Timothy Swanson of Trion died Friday, April 29, 2011. He was 57.
He was born Jan. 28, 1954, to the late Harry and Clara Swanson in LaFayette. He was a member of Ridgeview Baptist Church and he loved to play country music on his guitar.
He was also preceded in death by his brother, Charles Steve Swanson.
Survivors include his loving wife, Linda Wooten Swanson of Trion; son and daughter-in-law, Jeffrey and Brooke Swanson of LaFayette; sister, Jean (Charles) Littlejohn of Enterprise, Ala.; brothers, Phillip Swanson and James David Swanson of LaFayette, and granddaughter, Alexis Swanson.
Graveside funeral services: Tuesday, May 3, at 1 p.m. in Mount Carmel Cemetery. Visitation: Monday, May 2, from 6-9 p.m. and prior to departing for the service on Tuesday, May 3, at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, LaFayette.
Janie Lou Autry Shannon, 80, Chickamauga
Janie Lou Autry Shannon of Chickamauga died Wednesday, April 27, 2011, from injuries sustained in a tornado. She was 80.
She was born in Chickamauga to the late Jeff and Nora Ann Wallace Autry. She was a lifelong resident of Chickamauga and had worked in housekeeping at Tri-County/Hutcheson Medical Center and National Health Care of Fort Oglethorpe. She was a member of United Church of God in Chattanooga, Tenn.
Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Charles A. Lindburg Shannon; son, Wallace Shannon; grandson, Chris Shannon; sister, Dorothy Autry, and brothers, John, Frank, Charlie, Elder, James, Barnett and Archie Autry.
Survivors include her grandson, Ronnie Shannon of Flat Rock, Ala., and a brother, Wayne Autry of Ringgold.
Visitation: Sunday, May 1, from 2-9 p.m., and Monday, May 2, morning prior to the service. Funeral services: Monday, May 2, at 11 a.m. in the chapel with Rev. Rick Beam officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens-South, Rossville. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, Chickamauga.
Deborah Elizabeth Smith Stier, 44, LaFayette
Deborah Elizabeth Smith Stier of LaFayette died Thursday April 28, 2011. She was 44.
She enjoyed crossword puzzles and embroidery and was a member of Second Baptist Church.
Survivors include her husband, Dean Stier of LaFayette; mother, Betty Addison of Decatur; son, Adam Stier of LaFayette; daughter, Sarah Meagan Smith of Florida, and two brothers.
Memorial services: Saturday, April 30, at 3 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Visitation: April 30, from 1 p.m. until service time at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, LaFayette.
Norma J. Whitworth, 76, Ringgold
Norma J. Whitworth of Ringgold died Sunday, May 1, 2011, at a local hospital. She was 76.
She was born Dec. 31, 1934, in Greenville, S.C., to the late Elsker and Molly Mitchell Whitmire. She had lived the past 45 years in the Chattanooga and north Georgia area. Her passions in life were her family and her faith.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert J. Whitworth.
Survivors include her sons, Steve (Barbara) Huff of Cleveland, Tenn., and Doug (Susan) Huff of Chattanooga, Tenn.; daughter, Donna (Jim) Barnett of Decatur, Ala.; grandchildren, Tiffany Huff (Justin) Braden of Knoxville, Tenn., Dustin Huff of Memphis, Tenn., Matthew Barnett of Orange Beach, Ala., Leslie Barnett (Jon) Aldrich of Nashville, Tenn., Lindsay Huff (Andy) Hughes of Cleveland, Tenn., Sarah Barnett (Justin) Fields of Florence, Ala., Katie Huff of Cleveland, Tenn., and Jessica Barnett of Decatur, Ala., and three great-grandchildren, Justin Shook of Knoxville, Tenn., and Sean and Zachary Barnett of Orange Beach, Ala.
Graveside services: Thursday, May 5, at 2:30 p.m. at Chattanooga National Cemetery with Rev. Jim Caywood officiating. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to your local Humane Society. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.
Posted Monday, May 2, 2011
Anita Greene Abney, 80, Ringgold
Anita Greene Abney of Ringgold died Saturday, April 30, 2011, in a local health care facility. She was 80.
She was a member of Ringgold United Methodist Church. Mrs. Abney was a retired journalist with the Catoosa County News.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Grover Cleveland Abney Jr., and brother, Tommy Greene.
Survivors include her son, Willie Michael Abney of Trenton; daughter, Patti (John) Thomas of Suwanee; grandchildren, Meghan Simmons of San Antonio, Texas, and Brett Thomas of Suwanee, and three great-grandchildren.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.
Christopher Dewayne Black, 47, Ringgold
Christopher Dewayne Black of Ringgold died Wednesday, April 27, 2011, along with his wife, Pamela Hargis Black, and two children, Chelsea and Cody Black. He was 47.
He was an employee of Hicks Tufting and was of the Baptist faith.
He was preceded in death by his father, George Henry Black.
Survivors include his mother, Martha Carter of Ringgold; sister, Patti (Charles) Stephens of Ringgold; brother, Ricky Black of Ringgold; granddaughter, Beatrix Pearl Black, and three nieces, Taylor, Casey and Haley.
Funeral service: Tuesday, May 3, at 11 a.m. at Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle in Ringgold. Burial: New Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation: Monday, May 2, from 11 a.m.-9p.m. and Tuesday, May 3, until the funeral time at Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Ringgold.
Pamela Lynn Hargis Black, 46, Ringgold
Pamela Lynn Hargis Black of Ringgold died Wednesday, April 27, 2011, along with her husband, Christopher Black, and two children, Chelsea and Cody Black. She was 46.
She was a mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Service in Ringgold for 10 years and attended Welcome Hill Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence Sherwood and Patricia Ann Self Hargis.
Survivors include her sister, Connie (Levon) Wilson of Ringgold; three brothers, Doug Hargis of Rossville, Stewart (Paula) Hargis of Ringgold and Bruce (Susan) Hargis of Ringgold; granddaughter, Beatrix Pearl Black, and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral service: Tuesday, May 3, at 11 a.m. at Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle in Ringgold. Burial: New Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation: Monday, May 2, from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Tuesday, May 3, until the funeral time at Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Ringgold.
Cody Dewayne Black, 21, Ringgold
Cody Dewayne Black of Ringgold died Wednesday, April 27, 2011, along with his parents, Christopher and Pamela Black, and sister, Chelsea Black. He was 21.
He was an employee of T-Mobile, where he worked as a customer service representative, and was of the Baptist faith.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, George Henry Black and Lawrence and Patricia Ann Self Hargis.
Survivors include his daughter, Beatrix Pearl Black of Ringgold; grandmother, Martha Carter of Ringgold, and several aunts, uncles and cousins.
Funeral service: Tuesday, May 3, at 11 a.m. at Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle in Ringgold. Burial: New Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation: Monday, May 2, from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Tuesday, May 3, until the funeral time at Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Ringgold.
Chelsea Miranda Black, 16, Ringgold
Chelsea Miranda Black of Ringgold died April 27, 2011, along with parents, Christopher and Pamela Black, and brother, Cody Black.
She was a junior at Ringgold High School, was a member of the FBLA and attended Welcome Hill Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, George Henry Black and Lawrence and Patricia Ann Self Hargis.
Survivors include her grandmother, Martha Carter of Ringgold; niece, Beatrix Pearl Black of Ringgold, and several aunts, uncles and cousins.
Funeral service: Tuesday, May 3, at 11 a.m. at Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle in Ringgold. Burial: New Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation: Monday, May 2, from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Tuesday, May 3, until the funeral time at Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Ringgold.
Sarah L. “Sue” Carter, 84, Rossville
Sarah L. “Sue” Carter of Rossville died Tuesday, April 26, 2011. She was 84.
She was retired from Chubb Insurance in Chattanooga, Tenn., following 35 years of service.
Survivors include her sister, Barbara Smith of Ringgold, and several nieces and nephews.
It was her wished to be cremated and to be taken to her beloved Hawaii, where a memorial service will be held at a later date. There will be no visitation 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.
Juanita Dugger, 71, Trenton
Juanita Dugger of Trenton died Thursday, April 29, 2011, at a local health care facility. She was 71.
A private family service will be held Monday, May 2, at Chattanooga National Cemetery. Visitation: Sunday, May 1, from 5-8 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.
Leroy Wayne Essex Sr., 65, East Brainerd
Leroy Wayne Essex Sr. of East Brainerd died Wednesday, April 27, 2011. He was 65.
Mr. Essex was a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga area where he was a member of the St. Jude Catholic Church. He retired from B.O.C. Gas and had also worked at Bekins Van Line with over 20 years of service. His passions in life were his family, work and sports. He was an avid Braves and Tennessee Vols fan.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Billy “Big Billy” Essex and David Essex.
Survivors include two children, Leroy Wayne Essex Jr. and Monica Cannon; mother, Mary K. Essex; five sisters, Beckey Brockett, Jo Ann Hampton, Joyce Powell, Olivia Anderson and Rosa Petty; three brothers, Bobby Wayne Carpenter, Larry Wayne Essex and Randy Essex; three grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services: Sunday, May 1, at 2 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Don Powell officiating. Burial: Monday, May 2, at noon at Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Saturday, April 30, 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.
Linda M. Graham, 62, Valley Head, Ala.
Linda M. Graham of Valley Head, Ala., died Wednesday, April 27, 2011, along with her loving husband of 35 years, Kenneth “Buddy” Graham. She was 62.
She loved the Lord, music, nature and a good laugh, and believed in the Bible. She also enjoyed spending time with her two grandchildren, Rickey and Kenna. Most summer evenings were spent with a fishing pole in hand or simply relaxing outside. Linda played piano every Sunday at church.
She was preceded in death by her father, James Martin.
Survivors include her daughters, Audra Graham Scull and Samantha Nicole Graham; brother, James Martin, and mother, Lydia B. Martin.
Visitation: Sunday, May 1, from 3-8 p.m. and Monday, May 2, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at New Covenant Baptist Church. Memorial service: May 2, at 2 p.m. with Mike Gregg officiating. Donations are being accepted at New Covenant Baptist Church. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.
Kenneth “Buddy” Graham, 56, Valley Head, Ala.
Kenneth “Buddy” Graham of Valley Head, Ala., died Wednesday, April 27, 2011, along with his loving wife of 35 years, Linda. He was 56.
He loved the Lord, music, nature and a good laugh, and believed in the Bible. He also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, Rickey and Kenna. Most summer evenings were spent with a fishing pole in hand or simply relaxing outside.
He was preceded in death by his father, Harlon Graham, and sister, Judy Thompson.
Survivors include his daughters, Audra Graham Scull and Samantha Nicole Graham; sister, Sheila Hester; brother, Harlon “George” Graham, and their mother, Estelle H. Graham.
Visitation: Sunday, May 1, from 3-8 p.m. and Monday, May 2, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at New Covenant Baptist Church. Memorial service: May 2, at 2 p.m. with Mike Gregg officiating. Donations are being accepted at New Covenant Baptist Church. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home-Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia
Ruby Logan, 92, Rossville
Ruby Logan of Rossville died Saturday, April 30, 2011, in a local health care facility. She was 92.
She was a lifelong resident of the north Georgia and Chattanooga areas. Mrs. Logan was a member of Highland Park Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by parents, Carl and Lethia Hullander; brothers, Homer, Arnold, J. C., C. L., and George, and daughter, Wanda (Harold) Lawson.
Survivors include her son, Ray (Joyce) Crutchfield of Rossville; sisters, Alma (Junior) Bryson of Apison, Tenn., Betty (Wally) Varnell of Cleveland, Tenn.; brother, Carl (Betty) Hullander of Ringgold; grandchildren, Gene (Carolina) Lawson of Miami, Fla., Deborah (Lou) Patton of Cleveland, Tenn., Michael Crutchfield of East Ridge, Tenn., and Angela (Jeremy) Wilson of Rossville, and three great-grandchildren.
Funeral services: Tuesday, May 3, at 1 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Wally Varnell officiating. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Monday, May 2, from 4-8 p.m. and after 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 3, at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.
Elsie Obera Smith Shields, 96, Rock Spring
Elsie Obera Smith Shields of Rock Spring died April 29, 2011, at a local healthcare facility. She was 96.
Obera was a lifelong resident of Walker County and a member of the Church of Christ. She was a dedicated wife and mother and loved spending time with her family.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, John W. “Bill” Shields; grandchildren, Jeremy Shields, Jess Shields and Steve Ballard, and great-grandson, Bradley Shields.
Survivors include her sons, Bill (Geraldine) Shields of Rock Spring, Lebron (Darlene) Shields of Vero Beach, Fla., Don (Amelia) Shields of Ringgold and David (Valerie Johnson) Shields of Knoxville, Tenn.; daughters, Diann Shields-Bell of Ringgold, Elsie (Burton) Gaston of Rossville, Sally (Lamar) McWhorter of Rome and Joyce (Lloyd) Wright of New Market, Tenn.; daughter-in-law, Vickie Shields of Knoxville, Tenn.; brother, Glenn (Suzy) Smith of Minnesota; sister, Martha (Raymond) Alexander; sister-in-law, Mary Ruth Mason of Chickamauga; 15 grandchildren; 42 great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services: Sunday, May 1, at 4 p.m. in the funeral home chapel , with Don Shields officiating. Burial: Rock Spring Cemetery. Visitation: Sunday, May 1, from 1-4 and 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Jeremy and Jess Shields and in honor of Dona Shields Sabine, to Emory University Hospital, 1364 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30329, or in memory of Steve Ballard to Vanderbilt University Hospital, Vanderbilt Gift Processing, PMB 407727, 2301 Vanderbilt Place, Nashville, Tenn. 37240-7727. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.
Clyde F. Tackett, 73, Chattanooga, Tenn.
Clyde F. Tackett of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Thursday, April 28, 2011, at a local hospital. He was 73.
He was born May 17, 1937, in Cartersville, to the late Cleveland and Jeanette Cothran Tackett. Mr. Tackett was a master mechanic, having worked for Pye Nissan for several years, and was a U.S. Air Force veteran with 12 years of service and having served in Vietnam.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Harold Tackett.
Survivors include his wife of 43 years, Peggy Tackett; four daughters; two sons; two sisters; one brother; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Graveside services: Monday, May 2, at 10:30 a.m. at Chattanooga National Cemetery with full military honors provided by VVA 203. Visitation: Sunday, May 1, 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.