Obituaries: Week of May 18, 2025, In Loving Memory
ROBERTSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE:
(Smokey Barn News)
*Refresh this page for updates and newly listed obituaries for this week.
C. Roger Blackwood
February 15, 1935 – May 17, 2025
C. Roger Blackwood, a titan of industry, a pillar of public service, and one of the most influential figures in Robertson County for generations, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of unmatched civic, professional, and philanthropic contributions.
Born with an engineer’s mind and a servant’s heart, Roger’s lifelong pursuit of excellence began with dual Bachelor of Science degrees—one in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Tennessee and another in Mathematics from Middle Tennessee State University.
He was a proud leader among peers, serving as president of both the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the Pi Tau Sigma engineering honor society, even teaching engineering, mathematics, and sciences as a young academic. Roger’s professional career spanned more than six decades and reflected his incredible entrepreneurial drive. From launching equipment and construction businesses in his early 20s to consulting with and rehabilitating over 200 companies across the country, he was a dynamic force in the business world.
He held ownership or leadership in ventures ranging from crane services and structural steel fabrication to oil and gas wells, real estate development, thermoforming plastics, and investment enterprises in over a dozen states.
But it was his love for Robertson County that defined his heart. Roger faithfully served multiple terms as a County Commissioner, where he chaired the Finance, EMS, Highway, Juvenile, and Building & Grounds Committees.
As Chairman of the Robertson County Economic Development Board for over a decade, he played a central role in shaping the growth and prosperity of the region. His leadership and vision fueled economic development and brought lasting improvements to the lives of countless residents. Roger was also a deeply generous man. His quiet philanthropy spanned dozens of organizations. He was a founding force and long-standing board member of the YMCA, chaired construction efforts for their local facility, and was twice recognized as Volunteer of the Year. His decades-long commitment to the Kiwanis Club—both in Tennessee and Louisiana—garnered him awards and inspired programs to provide shoes, clothing, and dental care for children in need. Whether serving on the Historical Commission, coaching football, volunteering with Big Brothers, or building homes for Habitat for Humanity, Roger gave his time, treasure, and talent freely.
Among his many honors were the Good Scout Award from the Boy Scouts of America, the University of Tennessee Benefactors’ Society membership, the State of Tennessee Economic Development Council Volunteer of the Year, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Springfield High School Athletic Club.
Above all, Roger was a builder—not just of businesses and buildings, but of people and communities. He believed in second chances, personally mentoring and employing more than 35 formerly incarcerated individuals to help them restart their lives.
Roger is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Nancy Dods Blackwood; his children, Charles David Blackwood, Karen Lee Blackwood Bonner, Kathy Blackwood Williams (Royce); and his cherished grandchildren, Mitchell Matthews Bonner, Brogan Blackwood Bonner, Emma Williams, Reed Williams, and Genevieve Michelle Spratt. He also leaves behind his nephew Bond (Dana) Oman, Jim Ward, cousin Leland Caldwell Blackwood Jr. (Lisa), and many other special family members.
He was preceded in death by his late son Charles Roger Blackwood Jr., his brother Dr. H.O. Blackwood, and his foster parents, Moneta and Richard Thorpe.
His impact on Robertson County is immeasurable, and his absence will be profoundly felt by all who knew him. C. Roger Blackwood’s life was a masterclass in service, leadership, and enduring generosity. His legacy will continue to shape our community for generations to come.
The family will receive friends from 10 am until 1 pm on Friday, May 23rd, 2025, at the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield. www.austinandbell.com Funeral services will be conducted at 1 pm Friday in the funeral home chapel with Jack Breithaupt and Jordan Osborne officiating. A private family-only burial will follow in the Blackwood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to: Robertson County Family YMCA, 3332 Tom Austin Hwy., Springfield, TN 37172, or by visiting www.WMCAmidtn.org
Blackwood’s passing in the news: Roger Blackwood, Former Robertson County Commissioner, Dies at 90
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Bettye Hinson
March 23, 1933 – May 19, 2025
Bettye Ruth Hinson, age 92 of Pleasant View, Tennessee, died Monday, May 19, 2025, at Fieldstone Assisted Living in Clarksville, Tennessee.
Ms. Hinson’s wishes were to be cremated and later buried with her husband in Dover, Tennessee.
Ms. Hinson was born on March 23, 1933 in Bumpus Mills, Tennesse,e to the late Samuel & Velma Clark Shaw. She retired from the banking industry as a teller.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Earl Hinson.
She is survived by her friends, Cynthia Boyles and Cassandra Highsmith.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146 (615) 746-4433 www.austinandbell.com
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Joseph Auther “Woody” Woodard
October 19, 1950 – May 9, 2025
Joseph “Woody” Woodard, age 74, passed away Friday, May 9, 2025.
He was born in Dayton, OH to the late Walter and Cleo Woodard on October 19, 1950.
Woody was a veteran of the U.S. Army where he flew Cobra attack helicopters with the 361st Aviation Company, aka the Pink Panthers, supporting Special Ops in Vietnam. During his two tours, he was shot down three times. He served from 1969-1981 and was Honorably Discharged as a CWO3. Woody received many prestigious military medals including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with a V for Valor, Vietnam Service Medal, Bronze Star, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry (with a Silver Star), among others.
Following his military career he joined the Metro Aviation family as an EMS helicopter pilot until his retirement in 2018. He was lead pilot at several bases including Tyler, TX; Las Vegas, NV; and Melbourne, FL during his 34-year career with them. He was the 2011 and 2013 Florida EMS Pilot of the Year and as the 2013 Florida EMS Association President he worked to implement statewide EMS helicopter safety procedures. In his retirement, Woody participated in several podcasts and interviews pertaining to his military career.
Woody is survived by his wife of 38 years, Julia (Porter); sons Michael (Kimberly) Woodard, and Andy (Emily) Woodard; grandchildren Haley, Liam, and Greyson Woodard; brother Lee (Gloria) Woodard; in-laws David (Brenda) Porter and Cindy Porter; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister-in-law: Nanzy Porter Stewart, and nephew: John Stewart, Jr.
His family was always his first priority in life.
A Celebration of Life service is scheduled for 10:00am on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier, TN.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his honor to the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas or St Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. www.austinandbell.com
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME-
509 WALNUT STREET, SPRINGFIELD, TN (615) 384-1000
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Sallye Mae Wilson
June 17, 1931 – May 11, 2025
Sallye Mae Wilson, age 93, of Springfield, passed away Sunday, May 11, 2025 at the TriStar Skyline Medical Center. Funeral services will be conducted at 11am Thursday, May 15th, in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield with Bro. Doug Spain officiating. Burial will follow in Springfield Memorial Gardens with Jason Hester, Tim Krantz, Tim Teasley, Donnie Spain, Terry Hester, and Dallas Wilson serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends from 4-7pm Wednesday, and again from 10-11am Thursday, at the funeral home.
Mrs. Wilson was born June 17, 1931, in Limestone County, AL, to the late John Robert Horn and the late Emma Williams Horn. She retired from Wilson Sporting Goods after many years of service, and she had been a member of Owens Chapel Methodist Church.
In addition to her parents, Mrs. Wilson was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Louis Wilson; son, John David Wilson; granddaughter, Amber Wilson; and a brother, Marshall Horn.
She is survived by her sons, James Louis (Sandy) Wilson, and Paul Sanford (Maria) Wilson; 7 grandchildren, Angela Teasley, Amanda Wilson, Alisha Hester, Kristin Long, Jessica Wilson, Christina Hadley, and Emily Crum; 10 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. www.austinandbell.com
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME-
509 WALNUT STREET, SPRINGFIELD, TN (615) 384-1000
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Jeff Brisendine
January 31, 1965 – May 13, 2025
Jeffrey “Jeff” Allen Brisendine, age 60, of Springfield, Tennessee, died Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at his home.
His wishes were to be cremated and no services are planned at this time.
Jeff was born on January 31, 1965, in Clarksville, Tennessee, to the late Gary & Amelia Draughon Brisendine. He was an integral part of HMS Capital Management. He was involved in many restoration projects for steam locomotives across the country – specifically the locomotive that sat in Centennial Park in Nashville. He was also an avid car and motorcycle collector.
He is survived by his wife, Dana Brisendine; brother, Rick (Terri) Brisendine; sister, Cynthia B. Dowlen-Stephenson; nephews, Joey (Ashley) Dowlen and Jonathan Stephenson; and niece, Jenna Stephenson.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made in Jeff’s memory to: Nashville Steam Preservation Society at nashvillesteam.org
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146 (615) 746-4433 www.austinandbell.com
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Charles Kenneth Escue
December 10, 1973 – May 14, 2025
Charles Kenneth Escue, age 51 of Greenbrier, TN passed away Tuesday, May 14, 2025 at his residence in Greenbrier, TN. His wishes were to be cremated and there are no services planned at this time.
Charles was born in Nashville, TN on December 10, 1973 to the late Paul Allen Escue, SR and Vickie Cheryl Moore Escue Moncier.
Charles enjoyed fishing, reading, watching cooking shows on TV, Camping and loved his family dearly especially his daughters and grandson, Jasper. He loved the Lord first and above all else.
Charles also preached in the Children’s Church at Calvary Baptist for a period of time. His favorite scripture verses are, Romans 10:8-11 “the word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart, (that is the word of God which we preach) that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him up from the dead, you will be saved.
For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto Salvation. For the scripture says, “Who Ever believes on Him will not be put to shame”. Verse 13 says, “For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
He was a Meter Reader for the City of Greenbrier for 20+ years.
He is survived by daughters, Victoria Escue, Kennedy Escue of Greenbrier; grandson, Jasper of Greenbrier; mother, Vickie Moncier of Poplar Bluff, MO; brothers, Paul A. Escue, JR of Poplar Bluff, MO, Christopher Wayne Escue of Greenbrier and a host of friends. Donations may be made to Victoria to assist with her expenses at this time and to assist with care for her sister, Kennedy.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home, 2619 Hwy 41S, Greenbrier, TN 37073 –
615-643-4000 www.austinandbell.com
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Doug Demonbreum, Jr.
March 1, 1962 – May 16, 2025
Amos Douglas Demonbreum, Jr. “Doug”, age 63, of Pleasant View, Tennessee died Friday, May 16, 2025, at TriStar Ashland City Medical Center.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 o’clock am, Monday, May 19th, at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View with Bro. James Hayes officiating.
Burial will follow in EverRest of Cheatham with Mark Cannon, Rusty Murphy, Roy Gene Pigg, Bobby Rutland, Kemmy Shores, David Clymore, Nathan Hudgens, and Corey Stinson serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Josh Demonbreum, John Helton, Ivan Helton, Bernie Deffinger, and Jhones Gonzalez.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday, May 18th from 2:00-6:00PM, and again on Monday beginning at 10:00AM until the hour of service at 11:00AM.
Doug was born on March 1, 1962, in Nashville, Tennessee, to the late Amos Douglas Demonbreun, Sr. and Sarah Sweeney Pemberton. He was a carpenter who made cabinets for Cumberland Architect Millworks for over 24 years. He dearly loved his family. He also enjoyed woodworking, fishing, and was an avid Alabama fan. He was a member of the Pleasant View Church of Christ.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his father-in-law, Doug Clymore.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Linda Demonbreum; son, Josh (Elizabeth) Demonbreum; daughter, Tosha (John) Helton; grandchildren, Isabella Demonbreum and Ivan Helton; sisters, Evelyn Clement, Natalie (Bernie) Deffinger, and Betty Sue (John) Wright; mother-in-law, Sue Clymore; and several nieces & nephews.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146 (615) 746-4433 www.austinandbell.com
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Sandra Jean Hale
March 18, 1959 – May 16, 2025
Arrangements are incomplete at this time.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. www.AustinAndBell.com
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David Rose
October 12, 1949 ~ May 12, 2025
75 Years Old
David Craig Rose, 75, of Springfield, passed away on Monday May 12, 2025, at Vanderbilt Medical Center. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Thursday May 15th at 1:00 p.m. at the Martins Chapel Church. The family will receive friends at the Martins Chapel Church on Thursday May 15th from 11:00 a.m. until service time.
David was born October 12, 1949, in Columbia, MO to the late Ralph and Jean Alice Thompson Rose. He was an Eagle Scout, a veteran of the U.S. Marines, a business owner of Healthcare Receivables, and was of the Lutheran faith. David loved rebuilding and restoring cars, spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, and was an avid sports fan, especially the U.T. Vols.
David is survived by his wife: Jerri Jernigan Rose of Springfield, by his sons: Eric (Sheva) Rose of Atlanta, GA, and Brent (Gretchen) Rose of Germantown, by his bonus children: Ethan Morton of Springfield, and Dylan (Kali) Morton of Greenbrier, by his grandchildren: Nicholas Rose, Waylon Rose, Conrad Rose, Serianne Rose, Hannah Rose, Greta Rose, and Eric Rose, by his bonus grandchild: Wesley Morton, and by his siblings: D.Ann Fussell, Douglas and Donnie Rose.
This obituary is a courtesy of Robertson County Funeral Home.
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Aaron Marschal Sarles
July 8, 1978 — May 8, 2025
Mt. Juliet, TN
Aaron Marschal Sarles, a beloved son, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on May 8, 2025. He was preceded in death by his mother, LaVerne Sarles and his loyal dog, Buddy.
Aaron is survived by his father, James Stephen Sarles, and stepmother, Melinda Sarles. He leaves behind his cherished sister, Allison Couturier, and brother-in-law, Philip Couturier, along with his treasured nephews, Jonathan and Joseph. He will also be missed by his many beloved friends.
A true aficionado of all things Phish, Aaron found joy in music, family, and friendships. He had the remarkable gift for gab and was known for making everyone feel welcomed and accepted. Even in the face of pain and limitations, Aaron’s unwavering spirit shone through as he dedicated himself to making those around him smile.
Aaron’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Linda Fay Pursley
December 4, 1944 — May 8, 2025
Goodlettsville, TN
Linda Fay Pursley was born on December 4th, 1944 and passed away May 8th, 2025 peacefully at home after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease and a recent fall. She enjoyed her last days at home with close family and friends. Linda retired from the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County after many years of service as both a School Patrol Mother and Business Tax Officer with the County Court Clerk’s Office. She enjoyed spending time with her family, playing cards and lounging at the pool.
Linda was preceded in death by her loving husband of 51 years retired MNPD Major Danny Pursley; her parents, William and Mary Bess, 5 sisters, 1 brother and grandson James Thompson. Linda is survived by her children Dan (Angela) Pursley and Kim Pursley, 4 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Special thanks to the nurses at Amedisys Hospice and special friends Robyn and Bill Covington.
A private family memorial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Linda’s name to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital or American Parkinson’s Disease Association.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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