Obituaries: Week of May 25, 2025, In Loving Memory
ROBERTSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE:
(Smokey Barn News)
*Refresh this page for updates and newly listed obituaries for this week.
Bonnie Jean (Williams) Heim
(1951-2025)
Bonnie Jean (Williams) Heim, 74, Southaven, MS died on May 23, 2025.
Bonnie was born in Springfield, TN to Robert and Jean Williams.
Bonnie is survived by her husband, Kenneth, 3 children, and 7 grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Desoto County Dream Center.
Services will be held at Getwell Church, Southaven, MS. Visitation is Tuesday from 5 to 7. The funeral was held on Wednesday, May 28 at 10 a.m.
Arrangements were entrusted to Forest Hill Funeral Home and Cemetery- East 2440 Whitten Rd, Memphis, TN
Gary Goins
March 10, 1946 — May 18, 2025
Gary, Beloved father, grandfather, prankster, music lover, and creative tinkerer
Gary, originally from Florence, Alabama, and a proud Tennessean since 1964, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, craftsmanship, and love.
Gary had a magnetic personality—a razor-sharp sense of humor, a gift for storytelling, and an uncanny ability to turn any day into a good time. Whether pulling off an epic prank or fixing a broken appliance with parts you’d never expect, he brought ingenuity and heart into everything he did.
He retired after more than 30 years of dedicated service to St. Thomas Hospital—before it became Ascension—where his creativity and work ethic were as admired as his easy smile.
In the years before retirement, Gary was also an avid cyclist. Never one to do things halfway, he once rode from his home all the way to New Orleans—traveling the Natchez Trace Parkway with nothing but what he could carry on his back and bike. He loved the outdoors, and some of his happiest moments were spent fishing, hiking, and camping—always more at home under a wide-open sky than just about anywhere else. It was all part of his adventurous spirit, quiet determination, and deep appreciation for the simple, rugged beauty of the world around him.
At home, his truest passions played out in quieter corners: in his woodshop, where he transformed ordinary scraps into beautiful pieces, and in his living room, where Lyle Lovett, Ray Charles, and all the greats poured from the speakers as he soaked in every note.
Gary was a true original—equal parts creative mind and practical problem-solver, with a bit of redneck grit that he wore like a badge of honor. He could jury-rig just about anything, build something beautiful from nothing, and still crack a joke while doing it. He had a way of making the resourceful look effortless and the simple feel special.
His taste in music was as eclectic as it was soulful. In addition to Lyle Lovett and Ray Charles, he had a soft spot for artists like Bonnie Raitt, Van Morrison, The Charlie Daniels Band, B.B. King, and Tuba Skinny. Storytellers, crooners, and legends who played with heart and grit. He didn’t just listen to music; he felt it.
Gary is preceded in death by his parents Mr. and Mrs. JB and Pearlie Goins, and sister Nancy House. He is survived by his three daughters, Amber Goins-Finley (Jerry), Katherine Lee (Peter), and Amanda Diamond (Luke), who carry forward his humor, resilience, and love of music. He was the proud grandfather of Olivia Lee, Emma Diamond, and Henry Lee, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.
Gary’s absence leaves a deep void, but his spirit—humorous, resourceful, soulful, and with more than enough stubbornness — will continue to echo in the stories we tell, the songs we play, and the lives he touched.
Dad loved technology but held to his roots of solving problems by hand and returning to the elements of the earthat the Larkspur Conversation to lay dad’s remains to rest among a canopy of trees and a beautiful meadow where butterflies spread their wings, flowers bloom, and his spirit can soar.
Rest easy, Daddy. The shop’s quiet now, but your legacy builds on.
To find out more about Larkspur, click here: https://LarkspurConservation.org/cemetery-photo-gallery
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Lawrence Cecil Tate
September 20, 1944 — May 21, 2025
White House TN
Lawrence Cecil Tate, born on September 20, 1944, in Tennessee, passed away on May 21, 2025, leaving a legacy of love and music. He was a cherished member of both his family and the White House Health Care community where he spent his later years.
Lawrence grew up farming alongside his family, he held a special place in his heart for horses and mules and found joys of music with his guitar and harmonica. Known for his warm spirit, Lawrence shared his love for music with the residents and staff at the nursing home, often singing to uplift those around him.
A was a member of Mount Pleasant United Methodist Church for many years.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Virginia Tate.
Lawrence is survived by his beloved siblings, Diane (Paul) West, Ronnie (Andrea), and Joy Haneline. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews whose lives he enriched with his kindness and humor, as well as his uncle, John Kelley, and aunt, Joyce Leftwich.
His life will be celebrated and remembered during visitation at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home and Cremation Services in White House, TN, on May 27, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life service from 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM at the same location. His final resting place will be at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens.
Serving as pallbearers will be Dustin Lassiter, Jonathan Lassiter, Paul West, Chris West, Joe White, and Brandon Waller.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Billy Joe Erwin
June 1, 1929 — May 24, 2025
Goodlettsville, TN
Billy Joe Erwin of Goodlettsville TN was born June 1st, 1929; and left to be with the Lord on May 24th, 2025; he was 95 years old.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Bessie Erwin and father Charlie Erwin. Also, brothers John (Sarah) Erwin and Burnell Erwin. Billy Joe is survived by his wife of 70 years, Rita Erwin. Also, his son, Bob (Amy) Erwin, granddaughters Julianne (Spencer) Goodwin, and Bethany (Luke) Mitchell. As well as great-grandchildren Graham Goodwin and Oliver Goodwin.
Services will be held at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home in Goodlettsville TN. Visitation will be from 4:00 – 8:00pm on Wednesday the 28th and Thursday 11:00-12:00. Funeral service to be held at 12:00, with internment to follow at Hillcrest Municipal Cemetery in White House TN.
Bily Joe was born in White House TN where he lived until serving his country in the Korean war. After his return from active duty, he first worked at Dupont. After which he was employed by Sears in Springfield, TN. After his employment with Sears, in the mid 1960’s, he went to work at B. F. Myers Furniture in Goodlettsville, TN. Within a few years he went from salesperson to owner. After years of building relationships within the community, he retired in the 1990’s. The continuation and success of the business by his family is something he was very engaged in and proud of.
After years on employment and ownership of B. F. Myers, BJ enjoyed playing golf most every day. Summer months at Bluegrass CC in Hendersonville and winter months in Naples Florida. BJ was known for competitiveness, but more so for his enjoyment in spending time outside and with friends.
Billy Joe loved engaging in conversation with anyone and always wanted to be up to speed on what his family was doing. Another love was the Vanderbilt Commodores, who he followed for years. He was a faithful member of White House United Methodist Church in White House for many years, and later moved his membership to Connell United Methodist church in Goodlettsville, TN.
Billy Joe’s outgoing personality and love for others will be missed by many.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Cheryl “Cricket” Baptiste
April 25, 1962 – May 18, 2025
Cheryl, “Cricket” Baptiste passed away peacefully and was face to face with her Savior Jesus Christ, on May 18, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones, leaving a legacy of faith, joy and strength throughout her family, friends, church and community.
Cricket drew her unwavering strength from her relationship with Jesus Christ and her godly influence and fiery spirit changed the course of their family, the lives of her children, Tammy and Toby, and her church family at Covenant Confirmers Ministries in Springfield, TN. Countless women and men refer to Cricket as their spiritual mother, as she and her treasured husband, Pastor Ron Baptiste, founded and have led Covenant Confirmers for the past 25 years. Their passion for helping people from all walks of life find freedom, through knowing and trusting Christ, echoes throughout the local community as well as nationwide.
Her deepest love of her life was her husband of 45 years, Ron, and her joy was in their family, daughter Tammy (Baptiste) and son-in-law John Liverance, son Toby and daughter-in-law Kyleen Baptiste. She cherished being a Mimi to her 10 grandchildren Aaron, Austin, and Ariel Liverance, Breanna (Baptiste) and Shane Stober, Braiden (Baptiste) and Earl Yates, Braxton Baptiste, Eden Baptiste, Abbi Mboya, and her 5 great-grandchildren (and counting).
Cricket had a servant’s heart and a fiery energy and everyone who knew her felt like Cricket was their biggest cheerleader and strongest encourager. She was a lover of all animals and the outdoors, and you could often find her in her yard with her husband, animals and her flowers when she wasn’t serving in her role as co-pastor at her church.
Mostly, though, she is known for loving all people, well. Her love for Jesus and others radiated out of her constantly and her joy for life has changed lives, families and generations to come, for the glory of God.
Even while battling a brain tumor and treatments over the last two years, most people never even knew she was sick because she never lost her zest for life and that big beautiful smile, her over-the-top cheering for others, and the sparkle in her eyes. Even while leaving this earth for her forever home in heaven, we now understand she was showing us how to face every challenge with joy.
Services were held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, followed by a Celebration Of Life Service at Covenant Confirmers Ministry, 300 10th Avenue E, Springfield TN 37172
Cricket’s memory was honored at the service with guests wearing her favorite color, yellow.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Cricket’s memory to the CCMI Recovery and Outreach Efforts through www.ImpactChangeTogether.org – click ‘give now’ and reference “Cricket” in the giving memo.
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Sandra Jean Hale
March 18, 1959 – May 16, 2025
Sandra Jean (Loftis) Hale passed away peacefully at home on May 16, 2025. after a short battle with lung cancer. She was 66 years old, and the youngest of six siblings. Sandra was a lifetime resident of Tennessee, where she was born on March 18, 1959, in Nashville, TN to Harlan and Edna (Wakefield) Loftis. She married the love of her life the late James (Jimmy) Hale on May 10, 1980. They were married for 42 years before his passing. She had two daughters and one son. She was known for her strong will, stubbornness, and determination, but also for her enormous heart, generosity, love and support for her family and friends and her faith in God. Sandra also had a lucky streak, loved to play BINGO and her dog.
Sandra is survived by her daughter Kimberly (Tez) Henderson and brother Roger Loftis. She leaves behind four granddaughters Kelsey Snyder, Kennedy Snyder, Kaydence Snyder and Rylee Hale. Along with several cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. She is preceded in death by her father Harlan Loftis, Sr., mother, Edna (Wakefield) Loftis, husband James Hale, Sr., son James Hale, Jr., daughter, Lisa Allen, sisters, Geneva Thompson and Wanda Crutchfield; brothers, Harlan Loftis, Jr., and Calvin Loftis, along with grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and many others.
Sandra was a beautiful person, wonderful mother, wife, daughter, sister, grandmother, aunt and niece. She cared deeply and made an impact on many lives. She will be forever missed and never forgotten. Until we see you again.
There will not be a formal service, but those who wish may gather in memory of Sandra for a small graveside service for immediate family and close friends at Hillcrest Cemetery Columbarium 3141 Highway 31W White House, TN 37188 on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at 11am,, where she will be placed with her late husband and son.
ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188 (615)672-5000 www.austinandbell.com
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Frances Christine Outlaw
February 4, 1943 – May 24, 2025
Frances Christine Outlaw, age 82, passed away Saturday, May 24, 2025 at her home. She was born February 4, 1943 in Franklin, TN to John Lester & Christine Clement Fox, Sr. She worked as a commercial property/casualty underwriter for State Auto until her retirement. Frances loved attending church and was a member of Good Shepherd Methodist Church in Hendersonville.
She enjoyed listening to K-LOVE, eating Mexican food with her friends, going to the White House Senior Center to play cards and attending Hockey games. She was a loving mother and grandmother. Everyone loved to hear her laugh. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Huey P. Outlaw, Sr.;2 brothers, John L. Fox, Jr. and Robert A. Fox; sister, Dorothy F. Baker; son-in-law, Donnie Sexton. She is survived by her son, Huey (Kelly) Outlaw, Jr.; daughter, Teresa Sexton, both of White House, TN; 4 grandchildren, Katelyn Armstrong, White House, TN, Jake Zehrung, St. Petersburg, FL, Brenna Outlaw and Emily Outlaw, both of Nashville, TN.
A Celebration of Life Memorial service is planned for Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 1pm in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House. Visitation will be held from 11AM-1PM prior to the service at the funeral home. Her ashes will be placed in the Hillcrest columbarium with her husband at a later date. ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188 (615)672-5000 www.austinandbell.com
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Charles Edward Keef SR
April 4, 1944 – May 23, 2025
Charles Edward Keef, SR age 81 of Greenbrier, TN passed away Friday, May 23, 2025 at Altra Heights in Goodlettsville, TN. Funeral Services will be held at 10am on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at the Green Ridge Church of Christ with Bro. Jack Martin officiating. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Memorial Park in Nashville.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, 4pm to 8pm at the Green Ridge Church of Christ and again on Wednesday, 9am until time of service at 10am at Green Ridge Church of Christ. Charles was born in Nashville, TN on April 4, 1944. He was preceded in death by his parents and Aunt Catherine “Sis” Keef.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Martha Byrd Keef; son, Charles E. Keef, JR; grandchildren, Savannah (Patrick) Waldrop, Loman Keef, Brandon Loreto and one great-grandchild, Hasti Ghorbani.
Charles was a member of Green Ridge Church of Christ for 40+ years where he served as a Deacon and Elder. He was employed as a Buyer at Genesco and had served 3 years in the US Navy. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Green Ridge Church of Christ, 2215 Hwy 41S, Greenbrier, TN 37073
Austin & Bell Funeral Home, 2619 Hwy 41S, Greenbrier, TN 37073 –
615-643-4000
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Norma Louise Sheffield
December 4, 1928 – May 23, 2025
Norma Louise Sheffield, age 96 of White House passed away Friday, May 23, 2025 at Stone Creek Memory Care. She was born December 4, 1928 in Marshfield, WI to Victor & Lydia Marsh Marsh. She worked as a secretary for the KY TN Conference of the Southern Publishing Company until her retirement. She was a member of White House Seventh Day Adventist Church, where she taught Bible studies and had served as editor of the church newspaper.
She had also played piano and organ at Nashville First Seventh Day Adventist Church when she was younger. She enjoyed vegetable gardening and drew beautiful chalk art paintings. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Albert Joseph Sheffield; stepsons, David Sheffield and Joe Sheffield; brother, Harold Marsh.
She is survived by her step-daughter-in-law, Lucille Sheffield; two granddaughters, Donna (Chris) Miller, White House, TN and Sandi Hughes, Greenbrier, TN; Six great-grandchildren; Twelve great great grandchildren.
A private family memorial service is being planned. Memorial contributions are requested to the building fund at White House Seventh Day Adventist Church. ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188 (615)672-5000 www.austinandbell.com
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Amy Michelle Fitzpatrick
September 17, 1966 – May 22, 2025
Amy Michelle Hardaway Fitzpatrick of White House, age 58, passed away Thursday morning, May 22, 2025 at Skyline Medical Center. She was born September 17, 1966 in Nashville, TN to Clifton Eugene and Elizabeth Batson Hardaway. She worked as a loan closer for First American Bank She always enjoyed watching her daughters play fast pitch softball, She was an avid TN Vols and Peyton Manning fan, a Vanderbilt baseball fan, loved classic rock music, especially The Eagles, cooking and having cookouts with friends and family and eating delicious food. The thing she loved most was being a Mimi to her 3 precious grandsons. She is preceded in death by her parents step-father, Bobby Barnes.
She is survived by her loving husband of 38 years, Bryan Fitzpatrick, White House, TN; daughters, Brooke Fitzpatrick, Gallatin, TN, Ashley (Dillon) Kirkham, Portland, TN, Breanne (Alex) Burgett, Springfield, TN and Abby Fitzpatrick, White House, TN; brother, Jeffrey Hardaway, Old Hickory, TN; step-mother, Sandra Hardaway, Madison, TN; grandsons, Emmett Kirkham and Barrett Kirkham, Portland, TN and Xander Burgett, Springfield, TN.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, May 27, 2025 from 4-5:30PM at The Robertson Room 4580 East Robertson Road Cross Plains, TN 37049. A memorial service is scheduled for 5:30PM following the visitation with a celebratory meal at 6pm. The family requests casual attire for those attending. .ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188 (615)672-5000 www.austinandbell.com
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Betty Ann Knack
February 9, 1944 – May 20, 2025
Betty Ann Knack, age 81 of Cottontown passed away Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at her home. She was born February 9, 1944 in Plainfield, NJ to Lucka John & Anna Capparelli Greco. She worked as a principal assistant for Gaylord Middle School until her retirement. Betty enjoyed painting, cooking, making jewelry and flower gardening.
She was an avid Elvis fan and attended White House First United Methodist Church until covid. During and after the pandemic, she watched the services online. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, John Knack; brother-in-law, Alan Bender.
She is survived by her sons, John Knack, Clarksville, TN and Ken (Jessi) Knack, Cottontown, TN; daughter, Amanda (Mike) Orr, Chapel Hill, TN; brother, John (Kathy) Greco, Milford, NJ; sisters, Arlene (Tony) Sumski, Bloomsburg, NJ and Patti Bender, Readington, NJ; 8 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren.
A private family memorial service will be held in July. Her ashes will be placed in the columbarium at Hillcrest Cemetery with her husband. ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188 (615)672-5000 www.austinandbell.com
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