Mary Ruth Hackworth, 68, Rossville

Mary Ruth Hackworth of Rossville died Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2012, at her home. She was 68.

She was born in Rainsville, Ala., to the late Kale and Viola Cooley, and was of the Baptist faith.

Survivors include her loving husband of 55 years, Billy Hackworth of Rossville; daughters, Lesia (Greg) Lewis of Rossville, Tammy Hackworth of Fort Oglethorpe, Susan (Shannon) Clayton of Ringgold; siblings, Lois Hackworth, Leon Cooley, Grace Beard, Barbara Sneed, Arlene Blackstone, all of Alabama; grandchildren, Rodney Clayton, Madalyn Lewis, Breanna Hackworth, Savannah Lively; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Friday, Jan. 13, at 1 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Wade Miller officiating. Burial: Calvary Gardens. Visitation: Thursday, Jan. 12, from 5-9 p.m., and prior to the service Friday, Jan. 13, at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Rex Wesley Loggins, 69, LaFayette

Rex Wesley Loggins of LaFayette Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2012. He was 69.

He was born in LaFayette to the late Jessie and Velma Loggins. He served in the Vietnam War as a U.S. Marine and later retired after many years as a truck driver. Rex was a member of the American Legion and the Elks Lodge No. 2018.

He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Leroy and Clayton Loggins, and Kathryn Haston.

Survivors include his lifelong companion, Wanda Holmes of LaFayette; children, Michael (Stephanie) Loggins of Tunnel Hill, Wesley (Jane) Weaver of Rocky Face, Susan Walker of Fort Oglethorpe; siblings, Allen Loggins and Fannie Lou Reeves, both of LaFayette; grandchildren, Drew Russ, Aliyah Edwards, Ali Jane Weaver, Laura Young; great-granddaughter, Ashlynn Young; and several nieces and nephews.

Services: Friday, Jan. 13, at 12:30 p.m. in the chapel with Revs. Harvey Lively and Lowell Cantrell officiating. Burial: Chattanooga National Cemetery. Visitation: Thursday, Jan. 12, from 3-8 p.m., and prior to the service Friday, Jan. 13, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Elks Lodge No.2018 in LaFayette. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, LaFayette. Online guest book available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com.

Ola Thompson Thornton, 85, Columbia, Tenn.

Ola Thompson Thornton of Columbia, Tenn., died Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2012. She was 85.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Clayton (Slick) Thornton; daughter, Dianne Garwood; parents, Walter and Nettie Sillar Thompson; sisters, Alverna Hegwood, Arlee Hilburn, Louise Wilson; brothers, Curtis and Billy Joe Thompson.

Survivors include daughter, Janet (John) Lang of Columbia; sisters, Helen Hise of LaFayette; Earline Lively of Cleveland, Tenn.; brother, Charles (Martha) Thompson of LaFayette; grandchildren, Michelle (Michael) Bruno, John (Kimberly-Lou); great-grandchildren, Trew Lang, Dakota Lang, Tony Bruno; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Saturday, Jan. 14, at 2 p.m. with service conducted by Bro. David Thompson. Burial: LaFayette Cemetery. Pallbearers: Jim Don, Bill Thornton, Jim Hise, Wayne Hilburn and Mike Hegwood. Visitation: Friday, Jan. 13, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Eddie Lou Kittle Wright, 79, Ringgold

Eddie Lou Kittle Wright of Ringgold died Monday, Jan. 9, 2012, the same date, 18 years ago, as her eternal sweetheart and loving husband of 45 years, John L. Wright. She was 79.

Eddie Lou was a lifelong resident of Catoosa County having descended from the county's pioneering families. She was a member of Burning Bush Baptist Church where she was active in the Joyful Sunday school class and the Prime Time Choir. Eddie Lou always shared her faith in Christ through her words and actions. Mrs. Wright was the epitome of Southern hospitality always happy to share her love of cooking with family, friends and loved ones. She was also a member of the Ringgold Band Booster Club and a big fan of the Jacksonville State University Gamecocks and Marching Southerners. She was preceded by twin sons, Steven and Stanley Wright; mother, Kattie Lou Kittle; and brothers, Charles, Howard, Robert and Pete Kittle.

Survivors include daughters, Carolyn (Larry) Hullender of Ringgold, Marcia Wright Black of Ringgold; sons, Jeffrey (Beth) Wright of Kennesaw, Tracy (Amy) Wright of Chickamauga; sisters, Margaret Gardner and Doris Parker of Ringgold, Polly Colston and June Dennis of Marietta, Jeanette Wilcox of Fort Oglethorpe; grandchildren, Shane Hullender, Robin Hullender (Kenny) Leach, Melanie Black (Michael) Ahlschwede, Ben Black, Nathan (Hannah), Nick, and Avery Wright; great grandchildren, Austin and Patch Williams, Kayla and Kassy Leach, and Darcy Ahlschwede.

Funeral services: Friday, Jan. 13, at 11 a.m. at Burning Bush Baptist Church with Nathan Wright, Rev. Dennis McNulty, Rev. Bill Gardner, and Rev. Roger Kittle officiating. Burial: Anderson Cemetery. Honorary pallbearers: Prime Time Choir and Joyful Sunday school class of Burning Bush Baptist Church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Nathan Anderson Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust Fund, Inc. P.O. Box 429, Ringgold, GA 30736. Visitation: Thursday, Jan. 12, from 11 a.m.-8 p.m., at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.

Sidney H. Johnson, 83, East Ridge

Sidney H. Johnson of East Ridge, Tenn., died Thursday, Jan. 12, 2012, in a local hospital. He was 83.

Mr. Johnson was a lifelong resident of East Ridge, was of the Baptist faith, a 1947 Central High School graduate and a veteran of the U. S. Navy Reserve. He retired from Combustion Engineering after 35 years of service and also served with the original East Ridge Fire Department along with his dad, Captain Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy B. and Mattie Lou Johnson and nephew, Jon King.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Frances King Johnsonl daughter, Donna (Johnny) Cash of Rossville; son, Steve (Crystal) Johnson of Sweetwater, Tenn.; and five grandchildren, Craig (Shelly) Cash, Brandon, Brandie, Matthew and Tyler Johnson; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Saturday, Jan. 14, at 1 p.m. in the chapel with the Rev. Richard Jones officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens, South. Visitation: Friday, Jan. 13, from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Sidney Holden Johnson please visit our Sympathy Store. www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Sara Pauline Oaks, 78, Rossville

Sara Pauline Oaks of Rossville died Monday, Jan. 9, 2012, in a local health care facility. She was 78.

She was a native of Huntsville, Ala., and had lived most of her life in Rossville. Mrs. Oaks was a member of Delray Baptist Church and enjoyed sewing, cooking and being with her family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Albert Oaks; parents, Martin and Virginia Gilliam; and several brothers and sisters.

Survivors include her sons and daughters-in-law, Randy and Rene’ Fann of Cherokee, Ala., Steve and Sue Oaks of Hixson, Tenn., and Barry and Sherri Oaks of Rossville; brother, Ernest Gilliam of Rossville; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside services: Thursday, Jan. 12, at 11:30 a.m. at Lakewood Memory Gardens, South with Rev. Ronnie Childress officiating. Visitation: Wednesday, Jan. 11, 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 Sara Pauline Oaks please visit our Sympathy Store.

Nancy Lee Prater, 45, LaFayette

Nancy Lee Prater of LaFayette died Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2012. She was 45.

Survivors include Courtney (Brandon) Boyd of Soddy Daisy, Tenn., and Stephanie (Joseph) Whittemore of LaFayette; mother, Pat McKeehan of Summerville; grandchildren, Hailiee Whittemore, Madison Whittemore, and due in April, Lily Boyd.

Service: Private. Burial: Oak Knoll Memorial Gardens. Visitation: Friday, Jan. 13, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.



Tina Maxine Bridges, 65, Tunnel Hill

Tina Maxine Bridges of Tunnel Hill died Friday, Jan. 6, 2012. She was 65.

She was born in Woodstock, Ohio, to the late Max Lee and Mary Worthington and was a member of Temple of the Lord in Dalton.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James H. Bridges Sr.; siblings, Margie, Melissa, Johnny, Billy; and grandson, Brian.

Survivors include her children, Brenda (Charles) Styles of Dalton, Linda (Kenneth) Brinkley of Tunnel Hill, Lisa (Timmy) Prince of Chatsworth, James H. Bridges Jr. of Tunnel Hill; four sisters; two brothers; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews, and friends.

Funeral service: Monday, Jan. 9, at 2 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. G. David Henderson officiating. Burial: Gordy Memorial Gardens. Visitation: Sunday, Jan 8, from 2-8 p.m. and Monday, Jan. 9, prior to the service, at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Ringgold.

Elma Jean Garvich, 68, Ringgold

Elma Jean Garvich of Ringgold died Friday, Jan. 6, 2012, at her residence. She was 68.

She was a devoted member of Calvary Memorial Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday school and sang in the choir. Jean was affiliated with various animal hospitals in the Chattanooga area for over 40 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John C. and Thelma Waddell Smith; first husband, Wymer Potts; son, Durwin Potts; brother, John Smith; and her husband, Anthony James Garvich Jr.

Survivors include her sons, James C. Garvich of Atlanta, Michael Garvich and Timothy Garvich, both of Cleveland, Tenn.; daughter, Lynn Brewer of Kermit, W. Va.; brother, Glenn Smith of Ringgold; grandson, Jacob Potts; nine grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside services: Tuesday, Jan. 10, at 11:30 a.m. at the Chattanooga National Cemetery with Rev. Eric Greeson officiating. Memorial contributions can be made to Calvary Memorial Baptist Church, 518 Highway 41, Ringgold, Ga. 30736. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com.

Visitation: Sunday, Jan. 8, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home, Battlefield Parkway.

Billy Hathorn, 82, LaFayette

Billy Hathorn of LaFayette died Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012. He was 82.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Myrtle Hathorn; sons, William (Billy) Hathorn, Jerry Hathorn; sisters, Jackie Hopkins, Dot Wallis, Diane McGill; brothers, Maynard Hathorn, Jerry Hathorn.

Survivors include his wife, Judy Trammell Hathorn of LaFayette; daughters, Gail Foster of LaFayette, Donna Whitaker, Martha McWilliams of Summerville; sons, Billy, Jesse, Michael, Dennis Hathorn; sisters, Barbara Whiteside, Thelma Clark, Flossie, all of LaFayette; brother, Charlie Hathorn of Rock Spring; 11 grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside service: Saturday, Jan. 7, at 2 p.m. in LaFayette Memory Garden with service conducted by Terry Pettyjohn. Visitation: Saturday, Jan. 7, from 1-1:45 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Betty Joyce Jackson Ledford, 83, LaFayette

Betty Joyce Jackson Ledford of LaFayette died Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012. She was 83.

She was preceded in death by her husband, David Ledford Sr.

Survivors include daughters, Jauhyn Gordon of Montgomery, Ala., Judy Tilley of LaFayette; sons, David, Madison, Edward Ledford, all of LaFayette; sister, June Gray of Rossville; brothers, Charlie Jackson of Rock Spring, Swift Jackson of LaFayette; 14 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Sunday, Jan. 8, at 2 p.m. with service conducted by Mack Stephens and Steve Patten. Pallbearers: David Ledford III, Jason Ledford, Adam Ledford, Michael Gordon, Daniel Gordon, and Ryan Ledford. Burial: LaFayette Memory Gardens. Visitation: Saturday, Jan. 6, from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Freida Julie Andrews, 64, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Freida Julie Andrews of Chattanooga, Tenn. died Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012. She was 64.

She was a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga area, was of the Methodist faith and was previously employed as a teacher with the Orange Grove Center for more than seven years after graduating from UT Knoxville. She was also a patrol officer for Sheriff Evitt of Hamilton County, worked at Silverdale Correctional facility and more recently was the owner and operator of Andrews Towing and Recovery.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Freeman and Hattie Keith and her brother, Randall Keith.

Survivors include her loving husband of more than 38 years, Ben Andrews of Chattanooga, Tenn.; two sons, Todd Klein of Chattanooga, Tenn., and Jeff Klein of Rossville; two sisters, Jeanette Howard and Sonya Derrick, both of Chattanooga, Tenn.; two grandchildren, Corey and Erica Klein and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Thursday, Jan. 12, in the chapel with Bro. Donnie McMillian officiating. Burial: Chattanooga National Cemetery. Visitation: Wednesday, Jan. 11, after 4 p.m. and prior to the service on Thursday, Jan. 12, at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Leah Fugate Hendrix, 97, LaFayette

Leah Fugate Hendrix of LaFayette died Monday, Jan. 9, 2012. She was 97.

She was born to the late Walter and Virginia Morrison Fugate in Durham, on Feb. 5, 1914. Mrs. Hendrix was a retired seamstress with Belk Department Store and a member of Brainerd Hills Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Robert Hendrix Sr.; daughter, Cynthia Claire Hendrix; and several brothers and sisters.

Survivors include her son, John R. (Anita) Hendrix; daughters, Elizabeth Ann Hendrix Miles (Robert) Hill and Virginia Lynn Hendrix Barnes; seven grandchildren; several great grandchildren; and great-great grandchildren.

Visitation: Wednesday, Jan. 11, at 1:30 p.m. at the funeral home with the memorial service to follow at 2 p.m. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, LaFayette.



Jimmy Wayne Bridges, 61, Ringgold

Jimmy Wayne Bridges of Ringgold died Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012. He was 61.

A lifelong resident of the Ringgold area, he was an employee of L&W Properties, was a veteran of the U.S. Army where he served during the Vietnam War, and was of the Christian faith. Jimmy enjoyed camping, fishing, riding his Harley and his time spent at “The Coffee Shop.”

He was preceded in death by his wife, Louise Bridges; son, Tracy Williams; parents, William Homer and Pearl Hullender Bridges; brother, Johnny; and two sisters, Sarah and Inez.

Survivors include three children, Tammie Hullender (Roger), Chris Williams (Wendy) and Johnnie Robinson (Paul) all of Ringgold; three sisters, Doris, Hilda and Dimple; three brothers, Homer, Gene, and Tommy; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside services: Saturday, Jan. 7, at noon at Woodstation Cemetery. Visitation: Friday, Jan. 6, from 5-9 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 7, until 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home Wallis, Ringgold. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com.

Mary Marcita King, 57, Fort Oglethorpe

Mary Marcita King of Ft. Oglethorpe died Saturday, Dec. 31, 2011. She was 57.

A resident of the north Georgia and Chattanooga area, she was a former employee of the U.S. Postal Service and a veteran of the U.S. Navy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Horace Jr. and Devora Martin King, and brother, Martin King.

Survivors include four sisters, Kay Windom, Billie K. Hegwood, Teresita King McPhearson and Denise White; and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside services: Friday, Jan. 6, at 1:30 p.m. at Chattanooga National Cemetery. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home Wallis, Ringgold.

Margaret Loretta Vaughn Culpepper, 74, Ooltewah, Tenn.

Margaret Loretta “Rita” Vaughn Culpepper of Ooltewah, Tenn., died Saturday, Dec. 31, 2011. She was 74.

She was a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga area, was a member of the Ooletewah Church of God and a member of the Red Hat Society for more than 4 years. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, who will be sadly missed by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James Paul and Frances Marie Vaughn and her husband, James Kenneth Culpepper.

Survivors include her sons and daughters-in-law, Gary Lynn (Linda) Culpepper of Chattanooga, Tenn., James Robert Culpepper of Rossville, Steven (Cinnamon) Culpepper of Ooltewah, Tenn., and David Culpepper of East Ridge, Tenn.; 13 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Wednesday, Jan. 4, at 12:30 p.m. in the Fort Oglethorpe Chapel with Rev. Edmond Stallings officiating. Burial: Chattanooga National Cemetery. Visitaiton: Tuesday, Jan. 3, after 5 p.m. and prior to the service on Wednesday, Jan. 4, at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Homes, Fort Oglethorpe.

Dennis L. Guffey, 51, Rock Spring

Dennis L. Guffey of Rock Spring died Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012. He was 51.

He was a lifelong resident of the north Georgia area and was of the Church of God faith.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jimmy Guffey, and son, Joel Guffey.

Survivors include his mother, Betty Guffey of Rock Spring; three sons, Jimmy L. Guffey of Rock Spring, Chris L. Guffey of Chattanooga, Tenn. and Jason Guffey of Chickamauga; daughter and son-in-law, Jessica (William C.) Mabrey of Ansbach, Germany; and two grandchildren, Kylin and Jason Guffey.

Funeral services: Wednesday, Jan. 4, at 2:30 p.m. in the Fort Oglethorpe Chapel with Jeff Sexton officiating. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Tuesday, Jan. 3, after 3 p.m. and prior to the service on Wednesday, Jan. 4, at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Doris Vawter, 88, Ringgold

Dorist Vawter of Ringgold died Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012. She was 88.

A resident of the Ringgold area for the past 22 years, she was formerly of Atlanta and was a native of Cleveland, Ohio. She was a former employee of Premier Industrial Corporation, where she worked for 32 years, and was a member of Pathway Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Addison Sears and Nancy Rainey Vawter; two sisters, Mary Elizabeth Pettitt Hamilton and Thelma Ford; brother, Edwin Vawter.

Survivors include several nieces and nephews and cousins.

Funeral service: Friday, Jan. 6, at 3 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Mark Smith officiating. Burial: Westview Cemetery. Visitation: Friday, Jan. 6, from 1-3 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Ringgold.

Billy Don McDaniel, 81, Rossville

Billy Don McDaniel of Rossville died Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2011, at his residence surrounded by his family.

A native and lifelong resident of the Rossville area, Mr. McDaniel was retired from the U.S. Army where he was the recipient of many commendation medals, including the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. For many years, he was employed with Peerless Woolen Mills as a supervisor, and he was a member of East Ridge Baptist Church. He recently received his 50-year membership pen from the Rossville Masonic Lodge # 397 F&AM, where he had served as Past Master. Mr. McDaniel was a founding member of the Chattanooga Cola-Cola Club and loved collecting Coca-Cola memorabilia. Although he was a true patriot and proud veteran, his love for his family came first.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Thelma Thomison McDaniel; daughter, Sharon Ann McDaniel; and brother, Ralph McDaniel.

Survivors include his loving wife of 61 years, Carrie Turbyfill McDaniel; daughters, Billie (Bill) Hain, of Cleveland, Tenn., and Shelia (Robert) Reynolds of Ringgold; son, Larry Wayne (Katy) McDaniel of Lavaca, Ariz.; brothers, Carl McDaniel of Ringgold, Melvin McDaniel of Friendswood, Texas, and Bobby McDaniel of Chattanooga, Tenn.; grandchildren, April Mooney, Amanda Ables, Peyton McDaniel, and Amy Codrey; three great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Monday, Jan. 9, at 1:30 p.m. with Ronnie Mitchell and Rev. Billy Dean officiating. Burial: Chattanooga National Cemetery with full military honors. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. The family would like to express special thanks to Jennifer and Brittany and the staff at Hospice of Chattanooga for their care and concern during this difficult time. Visitation: Saturday, Jan 7, and Sunday, Jan. 8, from 4–8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Rosalee Suggs Webb, 84, Rossville

Rosalee “Rosebud” Suggs Webb of Rossville died Wednesday, Jan.4, 2012. She was 84.

She was born to the late Dillon A. and Ida Combs Suggs on Aug. 27, 1927 in Sanderson, Fla. She was of the Baptist faith and enjoyed cooking, flower gardening and spending time with her family.

Survivors include her devoted husband, D. F. Webb; sons, Felix and Allen Webb, all of Rossville; sisters, Elvie Mobley of Florida and Liz Turk of Virginia; brothers, Jack and Paul Suggs, both of Florida; three grandchildren, Sarah, Mollye and Cliff Webb.

Funeral services: Monday, Jan. 9, at 1 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Burial: Chattanooga National Cemetery. Visitation: Saturday, Jan. 7, from 4-9 p.m., all day Sunday, Jan. 8, and prior to the service Monday, Jan. 9, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Wilson Funeral Home to help with funeral expenses. Arrangements:W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Olin Lee Hayes Jr., 81, High Point

Olin Lee Hays Jr. of High Point died Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012, at his home. He was 81.

He was born in Alton Park, Tenn., to the late Olin Lee Hays and Gladys Mae Gilbert Hays. He served his country in the U.S. Navy from Nov. 24, 1947 to Nov. 13, 1953. His most foreign duty station was Yokosuka, Japan, where he met his beloved wife. Other than his service time, he was a lifelong resident of High Point. He was a member of Lookout Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as deacon and a member of the Men’s Sunday school class. He was a member of the American Legion Post #217 in Chickamauga. He retired from Exxon-Mobil Corporation after twenty eight and half years. He also worked at Hays Framing which was a family business.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Morgan C. Hays.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Violet Hiroko Watanabe Hays of High Point; their son and his wife, Chris and Denise Hays of Rossville; grandson, Carter B. Hays of Murfreesboro, Tenn.; sister, Mary Walker; and a brother, Kenneth Hays both of High Point; several nieces and nephews.

Visitation: Thursday, Jan. 5, from 5-8 p.m. Funeral services: Friday, Jan. 6, at 11 a.m. at Lookout Missionary Baptist Church with Reverend Terry Burns officiating. Burial: Lookout Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial donations be made to Lookout Baptist Church Building Fund. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, Chickamauga. Online guest book available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com.

Clarissa M. Belins, 92, LaFayette

Clarissa (Clara) M. Belins of LaFayette died Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2011, at Heritage Health Care of LaFayette from cancer. She was 92.

Born April 18, 1919, in Merchantville, N.J. She was the daughter of late Ward and Eva St. Claire Hepburn Middleton. She was a faithful witness of Jehovah God and his son Christ Jesus since 1940 and attended the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in LaFayette.

She was preceeded in death by her husband Herbert A. Belins, Sr.; daughters, Betty A. Lallement and Marilyn L Douglas.

Survivors include sons, Herbert A. Belins, Jr. (Rubi), Robert W. Belins (Sylvia), Richard J. Belins (Carol) and daughter, J. Ruedas Vargas (Javier); and 17 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren.

Memorial service: Saturday, Jan. 7, 2012, at 2 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in LaFayette with James Saunier officiating.



Sandra Gail Autry, 51, Ringgold

Sandra Gail Autry of Ringgold Friday, Dec. 30, 2011, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family. She was 51.

Sandra was a member of the Hickory Valley Community Church and was very passionate about serving her Lord. She was a mentor to many women and friends. Sandra was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister. She devoted most of her time to her family, especially her grandkids.

She was preceded in death by her father, Donald Brown.

Survivors include her loving and devoted husband of 33 years, Dale Autry; son, Jeff (Amy) Autry of Chattanooga; daughter, Paige (Christopher) Eden of Pooler; grandchildren, Sarah, Katelyn, Jacob, Davis and Gracie; mother, Vivian Jeanette Brown of Ringgold; brothers, Mike (Karen) Brown, Steve Brown, Donald “Butch” Brown and Charlie (Tammy) Brown.

Funeral services: Sunday, Jan. 1, at 2 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Duke Stone, Rev. Billy Benson and Galen Bell officiating. Burial: Catoosa Memorial Gardens. Memorial Contributions can be made to Hospice of Chattanooga, 4411 Oakwood Drive, Chattanooga, Tenn. 37416. Visitation: Saturday, Dec. 31, from 3-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home, Battlefield Parkway.

Walter “Jim” Decker, 75, LaFayette

Walter “Jim” Decker of LaFayette died Saturday, Dec. 31, 2011. He was 75.

He was a member of Linwood Baptist church and worshipped at Shepard Hills Nursing Home under Harmony Baptist Church. He retired after 35 years from the Georgia Department of Transportation.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Austin and Lillie Mae Decker; brothers, Carl Decker, Charles (Bo) Decker; sisters, Christine Pell, Dot Decker Welch.

Survivors include loving pet, Cricket Decker; special nieces, Angela (Bill) Corbin and Melinda (Gary) Jewell, all of LaFayette; nephews, Richard (Cindy) Cooper of Rossville and Michael Cooper of LaFayette; several other nieces, nephews, great-nieces and -nephews.

Funeral service: Tuesday, Jan. 3, at 2 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Gene Wallin officiating. Burial: Crestlawn Memorial Garden. Pallbearers: Richard Cooper, Matthew Sipsy, Stacey Suttle, Bill Corbin and Justin Cooper. Honorary pallbearers: Bill White Sr., Mickey Frye and the Georgia Department of Transportation. Visitation: Monday, Jan. 2, from 6-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Randall Wayne Hale, 60, Centre, Ala.

Randall Wayne Hale of Centre, Ala., died Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, at his residence. He was 60.

He was a native of Walker County, Georgia, the son of the late Charlie and Dorothy Fitzpatrick Hale. He was a security officer with Goodyear and a member of Pine Grove Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Kathy LeCroy Hale; daughters, Susan Hale, Amy Winkles, and Amanda Simmons, all of LaFayette; brothers, Alvin Hale of LaFayette, Marvin Hale of Fort Oglethorpe; sisters, Nancy Mullinax of LaFayette amd Phyllis Johnson of Ringgold; grandchildren, Senora Winkles, Ella Winkles, Ada Simmons, and Haylee Barnett; and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside service: Wednesday, Jan. 4, at 3 p.m. at the Cherokee Memory Gardens with Revs. Ricky Pollard and Eugene Burgess officiating. The family request that in lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society Relay for Life Team Angela. Arrangements: Perry Funeral Home.

Elmer Lee Hale, 76, Ringgold

Elmer Lee Hale of Ringgold died Saturday, Dec. 31, 2011. He was 76.

A lifelong resident of the Ringgold area, he was a former employee of Shaw Industries and was of the Baptist faith.

He was preceded in death by his father, Luther Hale Sr.; mother and stepfather, Alice Garner and Ervin Drake; and two brothers, Luther Hale Jr. and Thomas Drake.

Survivors include several nieces, nephews, and friends.

Funeral service: Tuesday, Jan. 3, at noon in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Ed Parson officiating. Burial: Anderson Cemetery. Visitation: Monday, Jan. 2, from 5-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Ringgold.

Bobbie Morris, 48

Rossville

Bobbie Morris of Rossville died Friday, Dec. 30, 2011. He was 48.

He was of the Christian faith.

Survivors include a loving son, Shane.

Memorial service: Saturday, Jan. 7, at 1 p.m. at New Haven Fellowship Church in Rossville. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Patricia Ann Graham Owen, LaFayette

Patricia Ann Graham Owen died on Dec. 20, 2011, surrounded by her family.

She was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother who passed away from Alzheimer's Disease. 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-grand daughter, Madilynn Hill; 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, with visitation one hour prior. Burial: Elmwood Cemetery. Gregory George officiating.

Charles “Burt” Burton Ridley, 67, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Charles “Burt” Burton Ridley, 67 of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Friday, Dec. 30, 2011, in a local healthcare facility. He was 67.

A lifelong resident of the north Georgia and Chattanooga area, he was a former employee of Shaw Industries in Ringgold and Lake Winnepesaukah, and was of the Baptist faith.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth Woodrow Ridley Sr. and Florence Marie Brookshire Ridley; and sister and brother-in-law, Betty and Robert Thompson.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley Evett Ridley of Chattanooga; three sisters and brothers-in-law, Rosa Lee and Arland “Bud” Pevehouse of Villanow, Ethel and James Lonnie Nix of Villanow, and Joyce Patterson of Chatsworth; three brothers and sisters in-law, Jesse and Paula Ridley of Alpharette, Kenneth “Woody” and Beth Ridley Jr. of Ft. Oglethorpe, and Raymond Ridley of Chatsworth; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Tuesday, Jan. 3, at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Burial: at White Cemetery in Villanow. Visitation: Monday, Jan. 2, from 12-9 p.m. and Tuesday, Jan. 3, until funeral time at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home Wallis, Ringgold.

Annie Mae Hall Wood, 96, Ringgold

Annie Mae Hall Wood of Ringgold died Friday, Dec. 30, 2011. She was 96.

She was a lifelong resident of the north Georgia area and former employee of Standard Coosa Thatcher.

Graveside service: Monday, Jan. 2, at 2 p.m. at Anderson Memorial Gardens. Visitation: Monday, Jan. 2, from 1-2:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Ringgold.