Obituaries: Week of June 23, 2025, In Loving Memory
ROBERTSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE:
(Smokey Barn News)
*Refresh this page for updates and newly listed obituaries for this week.
Robert Earl Hoback
October 9, 1935 — June 14, 2025
Nashville, TN
Robert Earl Hoback, a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on June 14, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on October 9, 1935, Robert dedicated a significant part of his life to his work as a butcher, and later a supervisor at Rudy Sausage Company, where he served until his well-deserved retirement.
Known for his infectious sense of humor and his adept fishing skills, Robert was a cherished member of Faith is a Victory Church, where he embraced a strong community spirit. His dedication to his craft, coupled with his jovial personality, left an enduring mark on those fortunate enough to know him.
Robert is survived by his children, Robert Hoback and Becky Hoback Eddie; his grandchildren, Christan Hall (Randon), Rebecca P’Simer (Sam), and Brent Essary St John; and his great-grandchildren, Maysen, Desi, Watson, Liam, and Lucy. He also leaves behind several slings, who will remember him fondly.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 68 years, Alice Hoback, and several siblings. His legacy of love and laughter will forever reside in the hearts of his family and friends.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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James “JD” Balser
July 31, 1946 — June 15, 2025
Greenbrier, TN
James Dale “J.D.” Balser, a beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, at the age of 78. He was born in Charleston, WV, on July 31, 1946.
Life and Legacy
J.D. graduated from Ripley High School in Ripley, WV, and later moved to Nashville, TN, to pursue his education at Nashville Auto Diesel College. His career was marked by dedication and craftsmanship, as he worked in aircraft assembly at Triumph Aerostructures for over 30 years. J.D. also served with distinction in the Army Reserve, retiring after 23 years of service to his country.
His passions extended far beyond his work and service. J.D. had a deep love for classic cars, particularly Mustangs and El Caminos. He was an enthusiastic attendee of car shows and cruise-ins. He also enjoyed cheering on the Vols at football games in Neyland Stadium. He recently celebrated 50 years with the Mason Lodge at Edgefield.
Family and Relationships
J.D. is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Angela Beth Balser-Heusser (Donavin), and his step-grandchildren, Ava and Ian Heusser. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews: Kathy Scantlen (Monte), Pamela Beymer Smith, Chad Shoulders (Jessica), Paula Ross (Randy), Lisa Looper, Cynthia Norton (Kevin), Kathy Cunningham (Tommy), Anita Woodall (Lance), Yvonne Buckner, and Tammy Jeffers (David). His favorite cousin, Vanessa Ball, held a special place in his heart.
J.D. was preceded in death by his parents, Wade and Flossie Balser; his beloved wife of 56 years, Mary June Shoulders Balser; his nephews, Randy Beymer, Jamie Johnson and Michael Beech; his nieces, Tina Thibideau and Jennifer Flatt; and his half-sisters, Zelma Alverson and Georgia Beymer.
Celebration of Life
A celebration of J.D.’s life will be held on June 25, 2025, at 11:00 AM in the chapel of Cole and Garrett Funeral Home in Goodlettsville, TN. Minister James Johnson will officiate the service. Visitation will take place from 9:00 to 11:00 AM prior to the service. Following the celebration, J.D. will be laid to rest in Springfield Memorial Gardens.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Paul Melton Neighbours, Sr
November 22, 1942 — June 20, 2025
Paul Melton Neighbours, Sr., a beloved figure known for his unwavering dependability and warm-hearted nature, passed away on June 20, 2025, at the age of 82 in Gallatin, Tennessee. Born on November 22, 1942, Paul was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend whose life was marked by service, craftsmanship, and a spirit that endeared him to many.
Paul’s professional journey began with the Nashville Gas Company, where he dedicated 16 years of his career until moving on in May of 1984. Following his time there, he worked at Jarrett Promotions with the renowned wrestler, Jerry Jarrett, which lasted until 1994. He later joined forces with his brother Charles to establish their own electrical business, a venture that showcased his many skills as a jack of all trades. Paul fully retired in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication.
In addition to his impressive career, Paul served his country honorably by joining the Navy in 1965. His service was a point of pride for him and reflected his commitment to the values of duty and sacrifice.
Outside of his professional life, Paul found joy in several hobbies and interests. He enjoyed watching Westerns on television and was an avid hunter, often spending time outdoors. Paul had a deep love for horses and embraced the beauty of nature in all aspects of his life.
Paul is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Mrs. Wanda Cole Neighbours. He leaves behind children Paul (Shirley), as well as stepchildren Tia (Terry) Wright and Jimmy Todd Elliott (Larisa), who will carry forward his memory. He was proud of his grandchildren: Ryan, Taylor, Sarah, Ethan, and Casey, alongside ten and a half great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life. Paul is also survived by his brother, David Neighbours (Pam); half-sisters Audrey McCarter and Shelia Thurman (CT); and half-brother Mark Tate.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Melton and Pauline Neighbours, as well as siblings Patsy Jordan and Charles Neighbours (Sue). He also mourned the loss of half-siblings Paul Larry Tate and Gale Brugger; and his birth mother, Marie Harris Tate.
Visitation services will be held at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home and Cremation Services in White House, TN, on June 23, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on June 24, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. A Celebration of Life will take place on June 24, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the same location. Burial will take place at Walnut Grove Cemetery.
Paul Melton Neighbours, Sr. will be remembered as a dependable friend, a loving family man, and a community member who touched the lives of all who knew him. His legacy of kindness and support will forever remain in the hearts of those he loved.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Betty Jean Reasoner
August 30, 1937 — June 22, 2025
Greenbrier, TN
Betty Jean Reasoner, age 87, of Greenbrier, TN, went to be with the Lord on June 22, 2025. She was born on August 30, 1937, to the late Gerald “Jerry” and Frances Thornton, in Nashville, TN. She is also preceded in death by her sister and brother-in-law Cindy and Jerry Hall, cousin Donna Hay, and her grandson Brandson Hobson. Betty is reunited in heaven with her loving husband of 55 years Walter Reasoner. Betty is survived by her children Laurie (Steve) Johnson, Cindy (Chester) Harris, and Tony (Lisa) Reasoner. She is also survived by her grandchildren Emily (Chad) Diehl, Beth (Troy) Henley, Clint Hobson, Josh (Elizabeth) Reasoner, Amy (Dwight) Dorris, Ashley Hobson, Katie (Toney) Lamberth, and Zachary (Joanna) Reasoner, 19 great grandchildren, one great great grandchild, and her brother Chuck (Patsy) Thornton. Betty will be missed greatly by many who were fortunate enough to know her, especially her church family at the Hillcrest Church of Christ.
Betty was a proud graduate of the Isaac Litton High School Class of 1955. She would go on to devote her life to the nurturing of those she cherished most. An immense love for her family anchored her every decision, guiding her as she chose to embrace the role of a dedicated homemaker. From the days spent caring for her parents to the laughter-filled moments with her children and eventually turning her gentle hands toward her beloved husband, her heart swelled with pride and joy as she cultivated the most important garden of all—her family.
Known for her natural servitude, Betty embodied the essence of selflessness. She was a woman who radiated warmth, her humble spirit lighting up the lives of those fortunate enough to know her. Always thankful for life’s offerings, she believed in finding joy in life’s simplest pleasures, often punctuated by her infectious laughter. Her sense of humor danced through her days, inviting smiles and light-hearted cheer into her home and beyond.
Betty’s passions blossomed through her love of gardening, with her grandmother’s geranium holding a particularly cherished place in her heart. She reveled in the vibrancy of flowers, recognizing in them the beauty of life’s transitions and cycles. Furthermore, she took delight in antiquing, a time-honored pursuit that brought her closer to the stories and legacies of generations past as her mother owned an antique shop!
Deeply devoted to her faith, Betty attended church regularly, finding solace and strength in her spiritual practices. Her commitment to God further fueled her desire to serve, which was evident in both her actions and her demeanor. She was a steadfast presence whose loving spirit enriched the lives of the countless individuals who marveled at her grace and strength. Although she is gone, her memory will forever reside within us all.
A graveside service for Mrs. Betty Jean Reasoner will be held at Forest Lawn Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens. Service times are to be determined.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Jeremy Pennington
March 29, 1979 – June 11, 2025
Jeremy Michael Pennington, age 46, of Clarksville, Tennessee, died Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at his home.
A memorial visitation for family and friends will be held between 4:00 and 6:00 pm, Friday, June 20th, at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View.
Jeremy was born on March 29, 1979, in Nashville, Tennessee. He was self-employed with a moving company. He loved working on cars, bicycles, and basketball. He was a Christian who loved his family very much.
He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Henry & Tommie Hipsher; and mother-in-law, Linda Marin.
He is survived by his son Michael “Hotrod” Pennington; daughter, Marissa “Sissy” (Jacob) Pennington Nunley; mother, Jacqueline Smith; and brother, Justin Pennington.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made in Jeremy’s memory to Austin & Bell Funeral Home to assist with funeral arrangements.
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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Peggy Louise Bush
January 10, 1946 – June 16, 2025
Peggy Louise Bush, age 79, of Greenbrier, passed away Monday, June 16, 2025 at The Waters of Springfield. A Memorial Services will be at a later date and will be announced when arrangements are complete.
Mrs. Bush was born January 10, 1946, in Nashville, to the late James Preston Skaggs, and to the late Sadye Belle Waggoner Skaggs. She, along with her husband Hugh, owned and operated greenhouses.
In addition to her parents, Mrs. Bush was preceded in death by her husband, Hugh C. Bush II; and sisters, Sue Lockhart and Faye Baldock.
She is survived by her sons, Sam (Ericka) Bush, and Hugh C. (Melissa) Bush III; 5 grandchildren, Anna, Timothy, Bailey, Sadye, and Jackson; and 2 great grandchildren, Bentlee, and Dalanee.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME-
509 WALNUT STREET, SPRINGFIELD, TN (615) 384-1000
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Janice (Qualls) Frey
August 20, 1936 ~ June 17, 2025
88 Years Old
Janice Q. Frey, age 88, of Springfield, TN, passed from this life on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at The Residence at Alive Hospice in Nashville, TN. A Remembrance of Life Celebration will be held on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at noon at Woodland Street United Methodist Church with Pastor Anne Proctor and Tim Harris officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until the service. A private family burial will follow.
Ms. Frey was born on August 20, 1936, in Maggart, TN to the late Reverend R.S. and Susie Poston Qualls. She retired from the City of Springfield as the City Clerk. She was a member of Woodland Street United Methodist Church and was an Eastern Star. She loved travelling the world and would even invite herself on trips if she heard others were going. Ms. Frey made it to all but four of the fifty states and visited several other countries as well. She loved sitting outside and spending time with her grandkids and great grandkids.
Ms. Frey is preceded in death by her parents, husband: Jimmy Donald Frey, Sr., brothers: Allen Qualls, Ray Qualls, and John Mark Qualls, and sisters: Frances Denney, Mary Hutto, Barbara Bragg, and Laura McMinn.
She is survived by her son: Jimmie D. (Diana) Frey of Greenbrier, daughter: Susan Frey (Larry) Groves of Cedar Hill, sister: Pat (John) Marlin of White House, grandchildren: Mamie (Klint) Arnold, Anna Stevens, Joshua (Julie) Groves, Jaimie (Mike) Shetsky, and Rachel Frey, and by her eleven great grandchildren.
The family requests, if so desired, memorial contributions to be made payable to the Eastern Star Youth Scholarship. Donations may be sent in care of Robertson County Funeral Home.
Robertson County Funeral Home is in charge of these arrangements.
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Eunice (Walton) Fuquay
October 3, 1941 ~ June 20, 2025
83 Years Old
Eunice Walton Fuquay, 83, of Springfield, passed away on Friday June 20, 2025, at The Residence at Alive Hospice in Murfreesboro. Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday June 24th at 1:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Pastor Lan Stapleton officiating. Interment will follow in the Elmwood Cemetery with Scott McEwing, Zachary Johnson, Logan Morgan, Jacob Harned, David Dean, and Bill Bales serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Monday from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Ms. Eunice was born October 3, 1941, in Springfield, to the late Thomas Henry and Mary Beatrice Butrum Walton. She was a retired assembly technician with Mansfield Tire & Rubber. Ms. Eunice was a member of Lighthouse Baptist Church, where she enjoyed being a part of the sewing ministry that made bags and blankets for the residents of local nursing homes. She herself loved to sew, but more than anything she loved to share the gospel and her love of Jesus with everybody.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband: Robert Ray Fuquay, by her sons: Stanley Ray and Troy Fuquay, and by her brothers: Henry, Hillis, and Julius Walton. Ms. Eunice is survived by several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.
Robertson County Funeral Home is in charge of these arrangements.
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Charles “Ricky” Graves
January 7, 1945 ~ June 21, 2025
80 Years Old
Charles Leo “Ricky” Graves, age 80 of Clarksville, passed from this life on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at his home. Graveside services will be conducted on Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at 11:00 AM in the Bellwood Cemetery with Randy Graves officiating. Burial will follow with Darryl Graves, Corey Graves, Tim Emerson, Stan Ellis, Don Jent, and Steve Powell serving as pallbearers. There will be no visitation prior to the graveside service.
Mr. Graves was born January 7, 1945 in Cedar Hill to the late Amon Boyd and Eris Powell Graves. He was a member of Red River Baptist Church and was retired from Bellsouth. He enjoyed fishing and golfing and loved his fur babies and visiting family and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Amon Boyd Graves, Jr. and Gordon Dale Graves, and a sister-in-law, Donna Graves.
Surviving him are his wife, Donna Jones Graves of Clarksville; sons and daughter-in-law, Darryl Graves of Clarksville and Corey and Jennifer Graves of Dallas, TX; daughter and son-in-law, Kristy and Tim Emerson of Clarksville; grandchildren, Conner Graves, Colton Graves, and Tyler Wiggins; brothers and sister-in-law. Randy and Teresa Graves of Mt. Juliet and David Graves of Adams; and a sister-in-law, Beverly Graves of Raleigh, NC.
The family request, in lieu of flowers, for you to make a donation to a charity of your choice.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Robertson County Funeral Home.
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