Obituaries: Week of April 5, 2026, In Loving Memory
ROBERTSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE:
(Smokey Barn News)
*Refresh this page for updates and newly listed obituaries for this week.
Paulette McCord
January 3, 1943 – March 30, 2026
Paulette McCord, age 83, of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away on March 30, 2026. She was born on January 3, 1943. Paulette shared a special bond with her parents, living alongside them and dedicating herself to their care and companionship. Her life was rooted in love and unwavering commitment to those closest to her.
She found happiness in the little things like watching her favorite shows, The Andy Griffith Show and I Love Lucy, which never failed to bring her laughter. She cherished peaceful days spent at the lake, taking in the beauty of the water, and had a special fondness for bird watching.
She was a dedicated volunteer with the Red Hat Association and a faithful member of Bells Assembly of God, where she built meaningful connections within her community.
Paulette was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Frances, and her sister, Jean. Survived by her sister, Judy Morehead, nieces, Penny Ogle and Dora Burnette, nephew, Michael Morehead and many great-nieces and great-nephews.
Paulette will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew and loved her. Her gentle spirit, strength, and loving heart touched many lives, leaving behind memories that will continue to bring comfort and warmth for years to come.
At this time, no services are planned. The family appreciates your thoughts, prayers, and support during this difficult time.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Donald Landers
January 1, 1937 – March 31, 2026
Donald Landers, a native of Nashville, Tennessee, was born on January 1, 1937, and passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026, in Gallatin, Tennessee.
Don’s love for motorcycle riding, fishing, and camping defined much of his personal time and brought him immense joy. He found great happiness outdoors and cherished the freedom and adventure these passions provided throughout his life.
Mr. Landers is preceded in death by his loving wife, Betty, daughters, Cathy Hampton and Diane Ellis, parents, Frank and Katherine Landers.
Survived by his children, David Wayne (Luanne) Birdwell, Cynthia (Terry Grave) Strong, Elizabeth Clark, Jeannie Landers; grandchildren, Mike Whittenburg, Angie Grove, Todd Clark, Tony Clark and a host of great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.
The family will receive friends during a public visitation on Monday, April 6, 2026, beginning at 1:00 pm at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow at 3:00 pm at Beech Cumberland Presbyterian Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Edward Norman Hale
August 19, 1946 – April 1, 2026
Edward Norman Hale, age 79, was born on August 19, 1946, in Nashville, Tennessee. He passed away on April 1, 2026, in Springfield, Tennessee.
Edward had a deep appreciation and enjoyment he found in Florida, where he loved spending time fishing. He worked for many years as a dedicated mechanic, a profession he took great pride in. In his free time, Edward enjoyed relaxing while watching television, especially programs on the History Channel.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Louise Hale.
Edward is survived by his cousin, Judy (Charles) King, along with many other beloved cousins. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, beginning at 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home in White House. A graveside service will follow at Hillcrest Municipal Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Sally (Goodman) Tober
May 22, 1941 ~ March 29, 2026
84 Years Old
Sally Goodman Tober, age 84, of Adams, peacefully passed away Sunday afternoon, March 29, 2026, at her residence in Adam’s. She was born May 22, 1941, at home in Adams, a daughter of the late John M. Goodman Jr. and Roena Tindell Goodman of Adams.
Sally was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, William Anton Tober III “Bill”; She is survived by her son and two daughters William Anton “Tony” Tober IV (Kate) of Centennial, CO, Kathryn Tober Rogers (Paul) of Manlius, NY, Judy Tober Hall (David) of Clarksville, grandchildren Daniel Hall, Brandon Rogers, Garett Rogers, Will Tober and Sophie Tober, brothers Joe Goodman (Linda) of Adams and John M. Goodman III (Gail) of Adams. She also leaves many other family members and friends who will deeply miss her.
Sally attended Bell Elementary School in Adams through the 7th grade, and Jo Byrns High School (Adams) provided 8th-12th grades. Upon high school graduation she acquired a B.A. degree in Education from Belmont College in Nashville. Later, she earned an MAE degree from the University of Florida. Sally taught school for eight years, but she considered her most important jobs that of homemaker, mother and pastor’s wife. Along with her husband she served Southern Baptist churches in six different states. When her husband retired they came back to live in the family home in Tennessee. At the age of 11 years old Sally made a decision to follow Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. Her faith and her family were the center and joy of her life. When not cooking, gardening decorating with flowers or splitting wood this hardworking lady loved to read, play piano and was very creative in pursuits like hand quilting, sewing, card making and writing stories.
Visitation is from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2026 at the funeral home. Memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Robertson County Funeral Home in Springfield, with Pastor Bill Graham officiating. Burial of cremains will follow in Adams Cemetery beside her beloved husband, Bill Tober.
Sally’s grandsons Daniel, Brandon, Garett, and Will will serve as honorary pallbearers.
Memorial contributions may be made to Coldstream Christian Camp c/o Robertson County Funeral Home or by visiting coldstreamchristiancamp.org
Services have been entrusted to the Robertson County Funeral Home
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Evelyn (Minnis) Harper
January 19, 1930 ~ April 5, 2026
96 Years Old
Evelyn Minnis Harper, age 96, of Springfield, found eternal peace on Sunday April 5, 2026, at Morningside of Springfield.
Ms. Evelyn was born January 19, 1930, in Springfield, to the late John and Nolie Graves Minnis. She was a lifelong member of Barren Plains Baptist Church and community, and she devoted her life to family and home where her greatest joy was spending time with family.
During her life, she enjoyed anything to keep her hands busy, especially cooking, sewing, and quilting, and it was all a labor of love for her family. Ms. Evelyn was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, and the memory of her generosity and unconditional love will forever live in the hearts of her family.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband: Billy Harper, and by her siblings: Oley, Coleman, Vernon, and Kelly Minnis, Addie Mae Murphy, Elsie England, and Earlene Holman. Ms. Evelyn is survived by her daughters: Virginia (Fran) Schaller and Judy (Kurt) Harper, by her grandchildren: Christine Schaller and Rebecca Schaller, and by her great-grandson: Jordan Lavender.
A private family graveside service will be conducted in the Springfield Memorial Gardens with Chaplin Lynda Boyd officiating.
Services have been entrusted to the Robertson County Funeral Home
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Peggy Elliott
June 28, 1934 – March 31, 2026
Peggy Jean Davis Elliott, age 91, of Clarksville, formerly of Stroudsville, Tennessee, passed away Tuesday March 31, 2026, at Signature Healthcare of Clarksville.
Funeral services will be conducted at 12 o’clock noon, Monday, April 6th, at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View with Bobby Ogg, Jr. and Evan Eley officiating.
Burial will follow in Resthaven Memorial Gardens in Clarksville with Julio Sanchez Gomez, Logan Petty, Elliott Eley, Evan Eley, Greg Davis, David Elliott, and Candido Hernandez serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Ms. Carol, Ms. Johnie, and Ms. Shawna.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday, April 4th from 4:00-7:00PM, and again on Monday, April 6th, beginning at 11:00AM until the hour of service at 12:00PM.
Peggy was born on June 28, 1934, in Clarksville, Tennessee, to the late Ben & Eunice Davis. She worked at Royal Insurance Company and drove Robertson County school buses for many years before ending her career delivering the Leaf Chronicle newspaper in Clarksville. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and a member of Stroudsville Church of Christ.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Ray Elliott; daughter, Karen Elliott Hernandez; and son, Mike Davis.
She is survived by her daughter, Kim (Julio) Sanchez Gomez; son, Tim “Goober” (Sandra) Elliott; granddaughters, Cierra, Samantha, Katie, Susie, Gabby, Maci, Leslie, Shina, Britaney, and Danielle; great-granddaughters, Ximena, Lilyana, and Aimya; sisters-in-law, Virginia Ann Eley and Beverly Davis; son-in-law, Candido Hernandez; and 4 bonus great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Peggy’s memory to: American Breast Cancer Foundation online at abcf.org or by calling (410) 730 – 5105
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146 (615) 746-4433
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William “John” Ryan
May 28, 1948 – April 1, 2026
William “John” Ryan, age 77, of Greenbrier, went to be with his precious Lord and Savior Jesus on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at his home. Graveside services will be conducted at 2:15pm Saturday, April 4th at the Hopewell Baptist Church Cemetery, 6264 Hopewell Road, Springfield, TN 37172. The funeral procession will depart the funeral home, for the cemetery, at 1:45pm.
The family will receive friends from 11am until 1pm Saturday, at the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield.
John was born, May 28, 1948, in Chicago, IL, in the suburb Mt. Prospect, to the late William John Ryan, and the late Marie Elizabeth Fehrenbacher Ryan. He was a man of strong Christian faith who made it a mission to tell others about Jesus. A gifted product engineer and founder of the companies Ryan Audio and Mystery Electronics, John was the inventor of the Floor Box, a now essential product for the audio visual industry. John enjoyed playing guitar for family and pedal steel guitar in his younger years. A self-taught polymath, he was a wealth of knowledge about many things including acoustics, electricity, engineering, mechanical musical instruments, pipe organ building, and music of all kinds. An avid model train enthusiast, he captured the rich history of locomotives and the era of steam. He was a member of the Carousel Organ Association of America, the Steel Guitar Forum, The Tennessee Central Railway Museum, and various professional organizations, as well as a former member of the Nashville Fellowship of Christian Magicians, with an emphasis on clowning for Christian ministry. John loved to work with tools and always enjoyed fixing anything for those he loved. He also enjoyed time on his tractor caring for his rural home where he loved hosting epic fourth of July family gatherings.
John is survived by his wife: Debra “Debbie” Anne Long Ryan of Greenbrier, by his sons: Peter Thomas Ryan and wife Jeanna of Springfield, and Andy Long Ryan of Nashville, by his daughters: Heather Marie (Ryan) Perry and husband Michael of Mt. Juliet, and Meagan Velma Ryan of Nashville, by his grandchildren: Ava Elizabeth Ryan, Noah Andrew Ryan, Cora Paige Ryan, McKenna Anne Ryan, Abigail Ryan, Claire Ryan, Preston Ryan, Royal Ryan, and Amanda Kate Breeden, by his brother: Thomas Charles Ryan and wife Charlotte of Franklin, and by his sister: Patricia Ryan Holland of Grain Valley, Missouri, as well as many dearly loved nieces and nephews.
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
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Joe Dunn
January 5, 1945 – April 2, 2026
Joe Edward Dunn, age 81, of Ashland City, Tennessee, passed away Thursday, April 2, 2026, at Riverview Post Acute in Ashland City.
A graveside service will be conducted at 11 o’clock am, Tuesday, April 7th, at Elmwood Cemetery in Springfield. Burial will follow with family & friends serving as pallbearers.
Mr. Joe was born on January 5, 1945, in Nashville, Tennessee, to the late Elvis & Neona Watts Dunn. He was retired after 35 years as a mail processor with the State of Tennessee. He graduated in 1965 from East High School in Nashville, Tennessee, and was an avid Vandy fan. He loved people and was affectionately known as “Happy Joe”. He was of the Presbyterian faith and was baptized in 1946.
A special thank you to all the caregivers at Riverview Post Acute in Ashland City.
He is survived by many cousins.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146 (615) 746-4433
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Bobby Joe Ralph
January 21, 1945 – April 4, 2026
Bobby Joe Ralph, age 81 of Cross Plains passed away Saturday, April 4, 2026 at Skyline Medical Center. He was born January 21 1945 n Hendersonville, TN to Alex & Rachel Carnihan Ralph.
He worked delivering arts for car dealerships before his retirement. He enjoyed vegetable gardening, watching Westerns, taking long drives in the country and eating catfish. He is preceded in death by his parents; son, Bobby Ralph; brothers, Russell Lee, Robert Allen & Ollie Ralph; sisters, Martha Ann Crissman, Peggy Adams and Sarah Page.
He is survived by his loving wife of almost 57 years, Patricia Ralph; son, Steven Ralph, both of Cross Plains, TN; brother, Bill Ralph, Millersville, TN; sisters, Mona Arden, Cottontown, TN and Agnes (James) Campbel, White House, TN.
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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Dorothy Mae Bryant
July 9, 1932 – April 6, 2026
Arrangements Incomplete at this time
ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL (615)672-5000
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LeeAnn Marie Julian
January 28, 1979 – April 6, 2026
LeeAnn Marie Julian, age 47, passed away Monday, April 6, 2026 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Funeral services will be conducted at 1pm Monday, April 13th, in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield, with Deacon David Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in Springfield Memorial Gardens with Zakk Julian, Jason Couts, Justin Couts, Ronnie Tate, James Strong and Jackson Couts serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Cooper Julian, Aiden Julian and Doug Couts.
The family will receive friends from 11am until time of the service at 1pm Monday at the funeral home.
Mrs. Julian was born January 29, 1979, in Springfield, to Doug and Freida Couts. She was a loving wife, mother and daughter.
Mrs. Julian was preceded in death by her grandparents, Moses and Emma Couts, and Willis and Helen Mason; and her father-in-law, Elton Strong.
She is survived by her husband of 21 years, Terry Julian; sons, Zakk Julian, Cooper Julian and Aiden Julian; parents, Doug and Freida Couts; brothers, Jason Couts and Justin Couts; and her mother-in-law, Rena Strong.
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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