Obituaries: Week of June 29, 2025, In Loving Memory
ROBERTSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE:
(Smokey Barn News)
*Refresh this page for updates and newly listed obituaries for this week.
Judy Fox Barnes
March 7, 1940 — June 23, 2025
Madison, TN
Judy Fox Barnes, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on March 7, 1940, Judy lived a life characterized by love, strength, and grace. Her presence will be felt deeply by those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Judy dedicated much of her life to nurturing her family. She is survived by her three loving children, Jackie (David) Daniel, Jeff (Carole) Barnes, and Jerry (Lori) Barnes. A cherished grandmother, Judy took immense pride in her grandchildren, Michael (Maggie), Stephen (Natasha), Ryan (Tiler), Bailey (Dustin), Carter, Mitch (Heather), Tyler (Victoria), Jackson (Megan), Macy, Tucker, Abby (Ethan), and Jacob. Her title of “MeMe” was not just a name, but a reflection of the deep bond and love she shared with each of them. Judy also had the joy of knowing seventeen great-grandchildren, further enriching her family legacy. She is also survived by her siblings, Richard Fox and Elaine Adams, and son-in-law, Joe Jackson
Judy was a strong-willed and adventurous spirit, balancing fun and love with quiet strength. She pursued her education in home economics, reflecting her passion for sewing. As a seamstress, she lovingly made clothes for her children and grandchildren, showcasing her creativity and dedication to her family. Following the loss of her husband, Jack Barnes, with whom she shared 42 years of marriage, Judith embraced travel as a way to seek new experiences, continuing her journey through life with courage and determination.
She also spent time doing car shows with her husband, Jack. Showing their 1940 Cadillac. After his death, she continued with the tradition they started together.
A lifelong member of Neely’s Bend Church of Christ, Judith’s faith was at the core of her life. She will be remembered for her grace, her adventurous spirit, and the warmth she brought to everyday moments.
Judy was predeceased by her husband, Jack Barnes, and her daughter, Joanne Jackson, as well as her siblings, Lucy Moore and Charles Fox.
A visitation in honor of Judy Fox Barnes will take place on June 29, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life at 4:00 PM at Neely’s Bend Church of Christ, located at 1502 Neelys Bend Rd, Nashville, TN, 37115. This gathering will serve as a beautiful tribute to a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many with her kindness, strength, and love.
Ms. Judy will be laid to rest at Pigeon Forge First Baptist Church Cemetery, Pigeon Forge TN on Monday, June 30th, at 1 PM EST.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Evelyn Kay Richardson
December 29, 1943 — June 24, 2025
Greenbrier, TN
Evelyn “Kay” Richardson, a radiant soul born on December 29, 1943, in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family on June 24, 2025. Her life was a tapestry woven with threads of unyielding devotion, laughter, and endless love, reflecting the beauty of the world she cherished so deeply.
She is preceded in death by her parents Ervin and Edith Scribner, daughter Gloria Hibdon, and son Dewayne Richardson. She is reunited in heaven with her loving husband of over 20 years Walter Ray Richardson. She is survived by her children Joseph Hibdon, Jacqueline Hibdon, Deanna (Dorris) Gammon, and Lynn McClain. She is also survived by her grandchildren Felicia, Jennifer, Wesley, Michael, Cheree, Ashton, Kaelynn, 6 great grandchildren. Kay is survived by her sister Carolyn (Thomas) Tobitt, nieces and nephews Toby, Tina, and Tammy, as well as 5 great nieces and nephews, and her fur babies whom she loved very much Ralphie and Koda. Kay also leaves behind many other relatives and friends who will miss her greatly.
From a young age, Kay understood the value of family, stepping back from her education to embrace her calling as a caregiver. She nurtured her loved ones with a tender heart, guiding them through life with her unwavering strength and compassion. They were her pride and joy, the center of her universe, always providing her with an abundance of reasons to smile. As a protector and nurturer, she created a sanctuary where her children could always feel safe and supported.
Kay was not just a caretaker; she was the life of every gathering. With an infectious sense of humor, she brought warmth and joy into every room she entered. Family trips to bustling Las Vegas and sun-kissed Florida became cherished memories, full of laughter and shared stories, forever etched in the hearts of those who journeyed alongside her. Kay relished the sun, summoning the warm embrace and creating lasting memories under its golden rays.
An extraordinary cook, particularly her cornbread, which friends and family fondly claimed was the best around. Whether it was fried, muffins, or just on the table they were delighted to have it. Overall, she was a good Southern cook. It was not just food; it was love served on a plate. She had a love of music; harmonizing to the tunes of old country music, where her spirit truly shone—humming melodiously, dancing joyfully, or simply savoring every moment. Life was never quiet for Kay; her melodic existence filled homes with laughter and the sweet sound of happiness.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Larry “Duke” Stephenson Jr.
December 5, 1956 – June 22, 2025
In Loving Memory of Larry “Duke” Stephenson, Jr. Born in Nashville and raised in Madison, Tennessee, Duke lived a life filled with rhythm, heart, and connection. From an early age, he was immersed in the family’s music entertainment business — playing drums, singing harmony, and even driving the tour bus while traveling and performing with his grandparents, the legendary Johnny Wright and the Queen of Country Music, Kitty Wells. Music wasn’t just part of his life; it was in his blood — a language he spoke fluently and passionately.
For many years, Larry was the proud co-owner of the Nashville Nightlife Dinner Theater, where he helped bring live music and joy to countless visitors and locals. His deep love for entertainment and hospitality made him a natural in creating memorable experiences for all who walked through the doors. Beyond music, Larry built a remarkable career in the hotel and tourism industry.
Over more than two decades, he served as a Director of Sales, Sales Manager, and General Manager at various hotels and entertainment venues, earning numerous accolades and industry awards along the way. Whether with colleagues, clients, or guests, Larry never met a stranger. His gift for conversation — rooted in his church upbringing — made him not only a persuasive salesman, but a genuinely warm and unforgettable person. An avid sports fan and gifted athlete, Duke earned a college sports scholarship and remained passionate about all things sports, especially college and pro football. Go Vandy! His competitive spirit, quick wit, and love of the game made every season one to look forward to. With striking blue eyes and a smile to match, Larry’s presence lit up every room. He was a man of deep passion — for music, for people, and for the work he loved.
His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through kindness, conversation, and an unwavering enthusiasm for life. Duke was preceded in death by his parents, Larry Stephenson, Sr., and Ruby Jean Wright Taylor; and maternal grandparents, Johnny Wright and Kitty Wells. He is survived by his husband of 23 years, Jason Pitkin; sisters, Kitty Ervin, and Corrie (Brad) Cluck; nieces, Kourtney Wingert and Katie Ervin; nephew, Brandon Ervin; uncle, Bobby Wright; aunt, Sue Sturdivant; mother-in-law, Jacquie Billings; father-in-law, William Pitkin, Jr.; and several great nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
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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Samuel Ralph Elliott Sr
October 25, 1934 – June 25, 2025
Samuel “Ralph” Elliott, Sr., age 90, went home to be with the Lord Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He was born October 25, 1934 in Cleveland, TN to Carl Monroe & Bertha Mae Prince Elliott. He is a proud U.S. Army Veteran, serving his time in Korea and Germany. Ralph retired from the US Army Corps of Engineers over 30 years. He was also a member of American Legion Post #206 in White House. He loved to ride motorcycles and belonged to the Goldwing Road Riders Association, where he and Beverly traveled all over Tennessee in their custom GL1200 equipped with side car. He enjoyed fishing, camping, woodworking and was an avid UT football fan, but first and foremost he enjoyed spending his time with family.
He has been a member of Halltown General Baptist Church since the early 80’s and was an Amateur Ham Radio Operator, known by the call sign WA4HXG. He had proudly worked every county in the USA and had received awards for his dedication to the organization. He is preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife of 61 years, Beverly Elliott; son, Steve Elliott; brother, Leroy “Bud” Elliott; two sisters, Elizabeth Wright and Etta Faye Coffman. He is survived by his son, Samuel “Bud” (Christa) Elliott, Jr., Portland, TN; daughters, Delores “Dee” (Ronny) England, Cottontown, TN and Frances (Randy) Lewis, White House, TN; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who fondly referred to him as their Pappaw.
Funeral service is scheduled for Monday, June 30, 2025 AT 11AM in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House with Bro. Mike Rymer officiating. Interment will follow in Halltown Cemetery with military honors. Bud Elliott, Michael England, Chris England, Mason Elliott, Stephen York, Cruz Wedin and Blake Byrd will be serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Jay England, Corey Rocchietti, Jaxon Rocchietti and Easton Rawls. Visitation is planned for Sunday, June 29, 2025 3-7 PM and Monday, June 30, 2025 9-11 AM at the funeral home. ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188 (615)672-5000 www.austinandbell.com (http://www.austinandbell.com/)
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Robert Douglas Keene
December 31, 1982 – June 25, 2025
Robert Douglas Keene, age 42 of Gallatin passed away Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at Saint Thomas Midtown Hospital. He was born December 31, 1982 in Madison, TN to Harold Douglas and Julia Anne Blair Keene, Jr. He worked as a physical therapy assistant for The Waters of Gallatin.
He enjoyed fishing, golfing, camping, music, playing guitar and keyboard, as well as being a very talented singer and songwriter. He is preceded in death by his father. He is survived by his mother, Julia Anne Blair Jones (Roger), Hendersonville, TN; step-father, Richard Eschbach, Cross Plains, TN; daughter, Lauren Keene;; fiancée’. Amanda Kemp; step-sons, Riley MizrahI and Daniel MizrahI, all of Gallatin, TN; brother, Gordon Keene (Jessica), Cross Plains, TN; step-brothers, Mark Eschbach, Cross Plains, TN and Timmy Eschbach, Shelbyville, TN; step-sister, Victoria Eschbach, KY;; uncle, Robert Barry Blair, Murfreesboro, TN; nephew, Tucker Keene, Cross Plains, TN.
Funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at 12 Noon in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House with Bro. Andrew McGregor officiating. Interment will follow in White House Memorial Gardens with family and friends serving as pallbearers. Visitation is planned for Monday, June 30, 2025 4-8PM and Tuesday, July 1, 2025 10AM until the time of the service at the funeral home. ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188 (615)672-5000 www.austinandbell.com
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Ruthie Louise Atchley
October 8, 1941 – June 27, 2025
Arrangements are Incomplete at this time.
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Alan “Big Al” Ray Jones
July 7, 1949 – June 28, 2025
Alan Ray “Big Al” Jones, age 75 of Hendersonville passed away Saturday, June 28, 2025 at his home. He was born July 7, 1949 in Louisville, KY to Herman Ray & Clova Bell Hester Jones. Big Al had lived and worked in Muscle Shoals, AL He loved music, played bass guitar and was a vocalist. In the 70’s, he participated in the Eerie Canal Soda Pop Festival. He had played with the Burrito Brothers.
He had also played for and done some recording with Shenandoah. He was the owner of Hot Little Numbers Publishing Company and Magic Tracks Recording Studio. Magic Tracks was started in Berry Hill and was later moved to Hendersonville. He had been the owner of Big Al’s Hobby Shop in the Gallery in White House and Jones Hobby Shop in Hendersonville. One of the things he enjoyed so much was his time substitute teaching at White House Middle and High Schools.
When greeted by his former students, he always remembered the students and enjoyed seeing how happy it made them that he remembered them. He is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 43 years, Anna Marie Jones, Hendersonville, TN; sons, Alan Ray (Cecelia) Jones, Jr., Lexington, TN and Matthew (Christine) Lynn, Evansville, IN; brother, Daniel (Sherry) Jones, Cross Plains, TN; his cat, Poco.
There are no services or visitation planned. ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 WHite House, TN 37188 (615) 672-5000 www.austinandbell.com
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Berle J. Wilson
May 5, 1940 – June 28, 2025
Berle Wilson, age 85 of Greenbrier passed away Saturday, June 28, 2025 at Tri-Star Medical Center in Nashville. His wishes were to be cremated and a Celebration of Life held at a later date.
Berle was born May 5, 1940 in Nashville, TN to the late Joe T. and Maxine Brewer Wilson. His mother Mrs. Maxine Wilson passed away when he was 18 months old and he was raised by his stepmother, Gladys Boatwright Wilson who also preceded him in death.
He is survived by his wife, Emma Jean Graves Wilson and a host of other friends and family.
Berle was a retired Fire Fighter with the Metro Nashville Fire Department and a member of Bethel Church of the Nazarene. He served in the US Army during the Cuban Missile Crisis and he enjoyed fishing, hunting and power lifting. Online condolences may be made at www.austinandbell.com
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Patricia Reynolds
October 21, 1942 – June 28, 2025
Patricia Jane Reynolds, age 82, of Springfield, passed away Saturday, June 28, 2025 at NHC Healthcare. Ms. Reynolds will be cremated and a graveside service will be held Saturday, July 19, 2025 in the Adams Cemetery to bury her cremains.
Ms. Reynolds was born October 21, 1942 in Robertson County to the late Curtis and Marjorie Ruffin Reynolds. She was a loving and caring daughter, sister, and aunt. She was always happy, smiling and laughing.
Ms. Reynolds is survived by her half-brother and sister-in-law, James and Mary Mantlow of Springfield; and nephews, Jay Mantlow and Josh Mantlow. She is also survived by many dear friends and extended family who will miss her very much.
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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Stephen J. Holjes
September 30, 1988 – June 29, 2025
Stephen James Holjes, age 36, of Hermitage, Tennessee, died Sunday, June 29, 2025.
His remains will be cremated, and no services are planned at this time.
Stephen was born on September, 30, 1988, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to Robin Bramblett Holjes and the late Stephen Robert Holjes. He worked in the construction business.
He is survived by his son, Jace Alexander Holjes; brother, Josh (Theresa) McLaughlan; and sisters, Jaci Keymon, Jini Darr, and Jessie Holjes.
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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Richard Hogue Jr
December 21, 1937 – July 1, 2025
Arrangements are Incomplete at this time
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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.
Robertson County Funeral Home is in charge of these arrangements.
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Teresa Faye Yates
September 15, 1962 ~ June 28, 2025
62 Years Old
Teresa Faye Yates, 62, of Springfield, passed away on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at her home. Her remains will be cremated and no services are scheduled at this time.
Teresa was born September 15, 1962, in Springfield, to the late Billy Eugene and Sandra Ledbetter Yates. She was a graduate of East Robertson High School and worked for many years at Kroger’s in Springfield.
Teresa is survived by several cousins.
Services have been entrusted to Robertson County Funeral Home
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Delinda (Townsend) Bell
November 23, 1945 ~ June 28, 2025
79 Years Old
FULL OBITUARY TO BE POSTED
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