Obituaries: Week of January 25, 2026, In Loving Memory
ROBERTSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE:
(Smokey Barn News)
*Refresh this page for updates and newly listed obituaries for this week.
Donald Graves
August 16, 1945 — January 17, 2026
Donald Nichols Graves, age 80, of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away on January 17, 2026, in South Daytona, Florida. He was born on August 16, 1945, in Nashville, Tennessee to the late E.G and Irene Graves.
In addition to his parents, Don is preceded in death by his sister, Kay Graves Hartman, nephew Scott, and niece Renee. Don is survived by his companion of 50 years, Steve Simmons, his brother James Graves, nieces Pam Minutelli (Gino), Kathy Slate (Joe), nephew Keith Graves (Michele), great nephews: Ethan Slate, Nicolas Minutelli, Nathan Minutelli, great nieces: Elizabeth Fletcher (Levi), Julia Smith (Magwan), Sophia Minutelli, as well as his great great nephews Adrien and Nico Smith. Even though Donald Graves departs us, his memory forever resides within those who were blessed to know him.
Don was a long-time resident of Nashville. He began a career in finance but soon found out that the funeral business was his true calling. As a Funeral Director, he was adept at comforting the bereaved. He always ensured that each family that he encountered was taken care of as if they were his own. Always lending a helping hand to those in their darkest moments Don was able to shed a little light on each of them, always showing how kind, caring, and compassionate he truly was. In his free time, Don loved horses. Being in their presence calmed him as he very much enjoyed going on long trail rides. Here, he was able to clear his mind and be present with family, friends, and nature. He also loved the beach, where driving on sandy shores in the sunshine made his heart feel fullest.
Pallbearers for the funeral service of Mr. Graves are to include:
Gino Minutelli
Joe Slate
Keith Graves
Nate Minutelli
Nick Minutelli
Ethan Slate
Services for Mr. Graves are to be determined at this time. We thank you all for your understanding and support of the Graves family. Cole & Garrett Funeral Home are to oversee the arrangements of Mr. Donald Graves. Located at 127 N. Main St, Goodlettsville, TN 37072. Phone: (615) 859 – 5231. Online Condolences may be expressed at ColeandGarrett.com under the Obituaries section.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
SEND FLOWERS TODAY! –> Click HERE
Ina Loraine Webster
August 28, 1958 – January 18, 2026
Ina Loraine Webster, born on August 28, 1958, in Nashville, Tennessee, completed her journey on January 18, 2026, at Hendersonville Medical Center. Her life was a testament to love, strength, and unwavering convictions; traits that defined her character and left a mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Ina is preceded in death by her parents William and Sarah Webster, and uncle Gary Webster. She is survived by her sister Pamela Knecht, nephew Micah (Emily) Robinson, great niece Victoria Robinson, aunt Betty Webster, cousins Brian (Amanda) Webster and children and Benjamin (Merrill) Webster and children. Although she is gone, her memory will forever reside within those who were blessed to know her.
Ina was a woman of quiet resolve, embodying a fierce independence that often became a source of inspiration to those around her. Though she was known to be stubborn at times, her heart overflowed with love and compassion. She cherished her family deeply and devoted countless hours to caring for her parents up until the time of their passing, a reflection of the profound admiration she held for them. The memories of laughter and shared experiences will forever warm the hearts of her loved ones.
A tomboy at heart, Ina found joy in activities that kept her active and engaged. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Goodlettsville, proudly playing on the church’s Championship Women’s Softball Teams, which her father coached. Beyond sports, Ina had an extraordinary passion for all things Dr. Pepper, Star Trek, and cars, particularly her pride and joy—a 1966 White with Red Interior Ford Mustang, which was the first vehicle she ever owned. Ina’s extensive collection of Dr. Pepper memorabilia, spanning from antique glass bottles, a Dr. Pepper Nascar hood to the latest collectables, showcased her dedication to this beloved beverage. In her moments of leisure, she found comfort in the adventures of Star Trek. “To Boldly Go Where No Man Has Gone Before” with Captain Kirk, Spock and the crew of The Enterprise,
“Live Long and Prosper”
At this time there are no services to be scheduled for Ms. Ina Webster.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
SEND FLOWERS TODAY! –> Click HERE
Robbie Jean (West) True
April 3, 1925 ~ January 22, 2026
100 Years Old
Robbie Jean West True, age 100, of Cross Plains, passed from this life on Thursday January 22, 2026, at her home. Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday February 3, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Kenny Swann officiating. Interment will follow in the Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Cross Plains with Lee True, Adam True, Van True, Tuck Tinsley, Gavin True, and Rodney Rodrigues serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Tuesday February 3rd from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Ms. Robbie was born April 3, 1925, in Earlington, KY to the late Elvis West and the late Bessie Keith West. She was a retired line dispatcher with Acme Boot and was a member of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Cross Plains. She enjoyed sewing, cooking, and was a member of the Cross Plains Heritage Commission. At the time of Ms. Robbie’s death, she was the oldest living resident of the City of Cross Plains.
In addition to her mother and father, she was preceded in death by her husband: William Dixon “Dick” True, by her granddaughter: Mary Jean True, and by her siblings: Fred West, Joe West, Johnny West, Geraldine Smith, Rose Lee, Phebia Head, and Kathleen West. Ms. Robbie is survived by her son: James William “Jim” True of Springfield, by her grandchildren: Lori (Tuck) Tinsley, Lee (Candy) True, and Adam (Samantha) True, and by her five great grandchildren.
If so desired, memorial contributions can be made to the Mt. Carmel Baptist Church Stone Soup Ministry. All donations can be sent c/o the Robertson County Funeral Home.
Services have been entrusted to the Robertson County Funeral Home
SEND FLOWERS TODAY! –> Click HERE
Mark Ray King
July 24, 1963 ~ January 25, 2026
62 Years Old
Mark Ray King, 62, of Pleasant View, passed away on Sunday January 25, 2026, at TriStar NorthCrest Medical Center. Celebration of Life services will be conducted Saturday January 31st at 1:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Brother Michael Rule officiating. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Mark was born July 24, 1963, in Chicago, IL, to the late Bobby King and the late Shirley Hadfield King. He worked as an Inventory Specialist with Electrolux in Springfield. Mark loved listening to music, watching TV, especially movies, and was an avid football fan, and his teams were the Chicago Bears and the Tennessee Titans. He loved his family, especially his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed being a Papaw and Grandpa to anyone that needed one. The love of his life was his Chihuahua’s, Abbey and Zoomie.
In addition to his mother and father, he was preceded in death by his brother: Larry King. Mark is survived by his wife: Dina Smith King of Pleasant View, by his daughter: Christine Almaraz and husband, Israel, of Oak Forest, IL, by his sons: Mark King, Jr. and wife, Megan, of Springfield, Markam “Markie” King of Springfield, by his grandchildren: Bentley King, Ariana and Bella Almaraz, and by his brothers: Jeff King, Michael King, Robbie King, and Steve King all of Chicago, IL.
Services have been entrusted to the Robertson County Funeral Home
SEND FLOWERS TODAY! –> Click HERE
Robert “Red” Gwen Harden
October 2, 1950 ~ January 25, 2026
75 Years Old
Robert “Red” Gwen Harden, age 75, of Springfield, passed away Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Centennial Medical Center in Nashville. Celebration of Life Services will be conducted on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Barren Plains Baptist Church with Brother Chad Diehl officiating. The family will receive friends from 9:00 AM until the hour of service at Barren Plains Baptist Church.
Mr. Harden was born on October 2, 1950, in Springfield to the late Bobby and Louise Harden. He spent his childhood in the Hopewell community. He graduated from Springfield High School, Class of 1970. Mr. Harden worked at Payne Chevrolet for over twenty years, where he proudly served as the specialty mechanic for Subaru vehicles. During his time there, he had the special opportunity to work alongside both his father and brother.
He later continued his career with the Robertson County Board of Education in the Building and Grounds Department, where he retired after over twenty years of faithful service.
A man of strong faith, Mr. Harden was a devoted member of Barren Plains Baptist Church.
He sang in the choir, served for many years as a Royal Ambassador leader, was the Chairman of the House and Grounds Committee, and had a deep love for missions. He traveled to Caracas, Venezuela, and the Oklahoma Indian Reservation, but the mission trips closest to his heart were with Deaf Ministries in Ponce, Puerto Rico. For eight summers, he donated his time repairing vehicles and teaching local mechanics, quietly making a lasting impact on countless lives.
Having lost his hearing at an early age, Mr. Harden faced life’s challenges with courage and perseverance. In 2005, he was blessed to receive cochlear implants, a milestone that brought new joy and connection to his life. In his early retirement years, he found great happiness on the lake with his wife, Jessica, fishing with his grandchildren, and enjoying yearly camping trips with his son. He also had a special passion for woodworking, creating beautifully handcrafted pieces – especially his impressive wall clocks and specialty walking canes – which will remain treasured reminders of his talent and creativity. Above all else, Mr. Harden was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be remembered for his servant’s heart, quiet strength, and the love he shared so freely with others.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Harden is preceded in death by his wife: Jessica Nella Harden, brother: James Harden, and daughter-in-law: Amy Hall Harden. He is survived by his children: David Harden and Bethany (Jeremy) Taylor, by his sisters: Debbie Justice and Jenny Greer, by his grandchildren: Lynleigh (Colton) Dieters, Neylee Harden, SSgt. John Taylor, and Levi Harden, by his great-grandchild: John Michael Dieters, and by a host of nieces and nephews.
Services have been entrusted to the Robertson County Funeral Home
SEND FLOWERS TODAY! –> Click HERE
Dale Eugene Murphy
February 9, 1955 ~ January 27, 2026
70 Years Old
Dale Eugene Murphy, age 70, of Cedar Hill, passed away Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at his home. A Celebration of Life service will be held Friday, January 30, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of Robertson County Funeral Home, with Justin Head officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service.
Mr. Murphy was born February 9, 1955, to the late L.T. and Marie Belew Murphy. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Terry Murphy, and his sister, Linda Mackey. Dale worked as a car salesman for 39 years at Tom Bannon and Payne Chevrolet, where the joy of his job came from meeting new people. He also worked for Nolan Plumbing. He enjoyed watching the Tennessee Titans, riding his Harley-Davidson, working with his model trains, spending time in his yard, golfing, and most of all, being with his grandchildren. Most importantly, he was a believer in Christ and a member of Regeneration Church Nashville.
He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Denise Wallace Murphy of Cedar Hill; son and daughter-in-law, Justin and Lindsey Head of Springfield; daughters and son-in-law, Michelle and Curtis Kynard of Smyrna, and Kristen Winfree of Clarksville; brother-in-law, Butch Mackey; sister-in-law, Donna Murphy; grandchildren, Xavier (Rebecca) Kynard, Alexis Kynard, Gabrielle Kynard, Kolton Winfree, Khloe Winfree, Miley Head, Jax Head, and Jase Head; and three great-grandchildren.
Robertson County Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Services have been entrusted to the Robertson County Funeral Home
SEND FLOWERS TODAY! –> Click HERE
Ethel Betts
September 2, 1927 – January 22, 2026
Ethel Lorene Betts “Nannie”, age 98, of Joelton, Tennessee, died Thursday, January 22, 2026, at her son’s residence in Pleasant View.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2 o’clock pm, Friday, January 30th, at New Hope Free Will Baptist Church in Joelton with Bro. Corey Minter and Bro. Tom Malone officiating.
Burial will follow in New Hope Cemetery with Kenny Betts, Jr., Brian Betts, C.J. Betts, Cooper Betts, Austin Craig, Chris Tuberville, Terry Bracey, and Brandon Jarrell serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Jeffrey Binkley and the deacons at New Hope Free Will Baptist Church.
The family will receive friends at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View on Thursday, January 29th from 2:00-7:00PM, and again on Friday at the church beginning at 10:00AM until the hour of service at 2:00PM.
Mrs. Ethel was born on September 2, 1927, in Joelton, Tennessee, to the late Bud & Ruby Chambliss Raymer. She was a homemaker and a lifelong member of New Hope Free Will Baptist Church.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Odis “Red” Betts; brothers, Roy, Elvin, and Charles Raymer; sister, Peggy Kirby; niece, Melba Harris; and special friend, Cato.
She is survived by her son, Kenny (Renee) Betts; daughter, Cheryl Myers; grandchildren, Kenny (Misty) Betts, Jr., Amanda (Brandon) Jarrell, Brian (Kaysie) Betts, Timothy Woods, Bethany (James) Peaine, and Brandy (Chris) Tuberville; great-grandchildren, Alexus, Haley, Presley, C.J., Ashlyn, Cooper, Addison, Zachary, Oceana, Jasmine, and Phoenix; great-great- grandchildren, Ava & Zayden; sister-in-law, Lavern Raymer; and nieces, Gayle (Don) Baggett, Sandy Raymer, and Sherry Raymer.
The family wishes to extend a heartfelt “thank you” for the loving and compassionate care provided by Drudie Hughes, Beverly Hunter, Dorothy Perry, Caris Healthcare, and NHC The Place at the Trace, especially Tracy, Holly, and Regan.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Ethel’s memory to: New Hope Free Will Baptist Church, 1285 New Hope Road, Joelton, Tennessee 37080
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
SEND FLOWERS TODAY! –> Click HERE
Mary Eveyleen Melton
May 10, 1939 – January 23, 2026
Mary Eveyleen Melton, age 86, of Springfield, passed away Friday, January 23, 2026 at her home. Mrs. Melton’s wishes were to be cremated and there are no services scheduled.
Mrs. Melton was born May 10, 1939, in Hawesville, KY, to the late Damien David Johnson, and the late Catherine Morris Johnson. She was a retail sales clerk most of her life.
In addition to her parents, Mrs. Melton was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Melton; granddaughter, Norma Marie Melton; brothers, Gerald Johnson and Frank Johnson; and sisters, Sister Joseph Damien Johnson, Sister David Marie Johnson, Sister Catherine Johnson; Sister Rose Theresa Johnson, Sister Rose Karen Johnson, Maxie Howell, Stella Howe, Elizbeth Johnson and Theresa Johnson.
She is survived by her sons, Bobby Melton, Darrell Melton and Ronnie Melton; daughters, Karen Bellamy, Brenda (Carroll) Dickens, Joyce (Tony) Hester and Becky (Dan) Sligar; 23 grandchildren; 58 great grandchildren; 1 great great grandchild; and a sister, Victoria Higdon.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME-
509 WALNUT STREET, SPRINGFIELD, TN (615) 384-1000 www.austinandbell.com
SEND FLOWERS TODAY! –> Click HERE
Wanda Rodriguez
September 13, 1942 – January 23, 2026
Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God.”
Wanda Nell Rodriguez, age 83, of Pleasant View, Tennessee, passed away Friday, January 23, 2026 at her home.
As per Wanda’s wishes, she will be cremated and her memorial service will be at Mallory’s Church, 4330 Thomasville Road, Chapmansboro, Tennessee 37035, on March 7, 2026 at 10:00AM.
Mrs. Wanda’s life journey began on September 13, 1942 in Jackson, Tennessee. As a devoted believer in Christ Jesus, she embodied the values of love, kindness, and compassion. Family time and holidays held a special place in her heart. Mrs. Wanda’s generosity and care for others inspired those around her. She found joy in music and movies, particularly classic country and family dinners. With a passion for cooking, Mrs. Wanda spent over 30 years in the restaurant business, sharing her talents and creating lasting memories for her loved ones. Mrs. Wanda’s legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched.
Mrs. Wanda is preceded in death by her father, James Henry Sullivan, and her mother, Nellie Varnell Trice; sons, Charles D. Hubbard and Roy D. Hubbard; brother, Jerry Sullivan (wife, Beverly); sister, Cora E. Ray (husband, Clyde, Jr.) sister-in-law, Barbara Sullivan; niece, Lori L. Ray.
Survivors include her life partner, Gary L. Jones; daughter, Victoria Hubbard (Gary “Steve” Watts); brothers, Earlis Sullivan (wife, Renae), and Jimmy Sullivan; brother-in-law, Ron Jones; cousin, Michael C. Montoya; grandchildren, Ambermarie Lowe, Christina Baird (Ryan), Erika Colon (Christian), Allison Burgo (Henry), and Matthew Niebuhr; 14 great-grandchildren; 6 great-great grandchildren; and many, many extended family members.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View assisted the family with these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146 (615) 746-4433 www.austinandbell.com
SEND FLOWERS TODAY! –> Click HERE
David Ray Noble
April 23, 1954 – January 24, 2026
David Ray Noble, White House, TN, also known as “Santa Ray”, “Papa Ray” and “The Trophy Man” April 23, 1954-January 24, 2026. Survived by his wife of 35 years, Constance Ruth Kirschbaum. Born in Nashville, TN, he graduated from Hume Fogg High School in 1972. Ray worked for Golden Flake, Airbourne Express and Fed Ex. In 2004, he opened his own business here in White House, TN, retiring in 2021.
He served several local schools and teams in the area, along with businesses and corporations. Ray’s motto was always appreciation deserves recognition. He was a member of the White House Chamber of Commerce and several networking groups. His biggest thrill was being Santa for the White House Christmas Parade for several years, as he loved all the children. Preceded in death by his father, John “Jack” Michael Noble, Sr. and mother, Clara Inez Law Noble; brother, John “Jackie” Michael Noble, Jr.
He is survived by his wife, Constance Ruth Kirschbaum of White House; brother, Larry (Marilyn) Noble of Seymour, TN; sister, Tina (Jimmy) Castro of Gallatin, TN; children, Jeremy Lee (Melissa) Noble of East TN, Jennifer Lynn (David) Gann of Clarksville, TN and Hope Noble (Garrett) DeRosett of Madison, TN; granddaughters, Jessica and Shiloh Noble and Great-granddaughter, Aislyn Gann. Ray loved gardening and children very much. He also loved to decorate for every holiday.
A Celebration of Life service is scheduled for Friday, February 27, 2026 at 7 pm in the chapel of Austin and Bell Funeral Home in White House. Visitation will be held from 5 pm to 7 pm prior to the service at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to Shriner’s Hospital or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for children. ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188 (615)672-5000 www.austinandbell.com
SEND FLOWERS TODAY! –> Click HERE
Donna Claire Spotts
October 5, 1939 – January 24, 2026
Donna Claire Spotts, age 86 of White House passed away, Saturday, January 24, 2026 at Signature Health Care in Portland. She was born October 5, 1939 in Chester, PA to Robert and Gladys Johnson Snideman. She was retired from the Adventist Health System where she worked in Administration.
She dedicated much of her life sharing her talents of organ and piano playing with multiple churches throughout, Missouri, Texas and Pennsylvania. She also taught bell choirs and led vocal choirs. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the apple of her eye. She enjoyed spending time with them more than just about anything else.
Most recently she was a member of Ridgetop Seventh Day Adventist Church. She is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Phyllis Leiby. She is survived by her loving husband of 67 years, Dick Spotts, White House, TN; daughters, Cheryl (Ronald) Goff, White House, TN, Susan (Scott) Grady, Alverado, TX and Jodi (Jerry) Hobbs, Overland Park, KS; sister, Elizabeth Sue McCracken, Cleburne, TX; 6 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren.
There are no services or visitation planned at this time. ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188 (615)672-5000 www.austinandbell.com
SEND FLOWERS TODAY! –> Click HERE
Howard Wayne Dabbs
August 12, 1943 – January 25, 2026
Howard Wayne Dabbs, age 82 of Madison passed away Sunday, January 25, 2026 at The Maybell Carter Assisted Living in Madison, TN. He was born August 12, 1943 in Linden, TN to John Dabbs, Jr and Lucille Ward Dabbs. He worked as a plumber for Wrangler Boots until his retirement.
He is preceded in death by his parents;3 brothers, John Lewis Dabbs, Billy Ray Dabbs and Joe Dabbs; sister, Nancy Haywood; grandson, Alex. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Dabbs, Madison, TN; sons, Eric Dabbs, Darden, TN and Roger Dabbs, Lexington, TN; sisters, Mary (Billy Ray) Jones, Linden, TN, Sally Pearcy, Lexington, TN and Bessie Nell Duncan, Linden, TN; 1 grandchild.
There are no services or visitation planned at this time. ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188 (615)672-5000 www.austinandbell.com
SEND FLOWERS TODAY! –> Click HERE
Patsy Stroud Walker
July 23, 1941 – January 17, 2026
Patsy Stroud Walker, 84, passed away peacefully at home in Richardson Texas, leaving behind a legacy of love and friendship. Pat embraced a life of discovery, residing in over 21 locations throughout the United States, Germany, El Salvador, Panama, Chile, and Colombia. The extensive network of friends she leaves behind, spanning the United States and Latin America, stands as a testament to her warmth and genuine love for people.
Four and a half years ago, Pat moved to North Texas to be near family, allowing her to spend her final time surrounded by those she loved. Pat is survived by her daughters, Kim Ashby and Jan Van Blarcum; her five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins as well as countless friends around the world who will forever cherish her memory.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Ola Stroud, and her siblings, Clarence Stroud Jr, Betty Griffin, Robert “Bobby” Stroud, and Richard “Dick” Stroud.
Patsy Stroud Walker, devoted friend, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother—lived a life of purpose, perseverance, and profound impact.
Services will be held Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 1pm in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11am until the hour of service at 1pm. Burial will follow in the Springfield Memorial Gardens with Daniel Ashby, Joseph Ashby, Stephen Ashby, Bob Stroud, Jim Stroud, Josh Jackson, and Jeff Walker serving as pallbearers.
The family suggests donations to the Cerebral Palsy Foundation or the Einstein School Foundation in Pat’s memory.Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME- 509 WALNUT STREET, SPRINGFIELD, TN (615) 384-1000 www.austinandbell.com
SEND FLOWERS TODAY! –> Click HERE
