Obituaries: Week of October 11, 2026, In Loving Memory
ROBERTSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE:
(Smokey Barn News)
*Refresh this page for updates and newly listed obituaries for this week.
Tiffeny (Sawyers) Flair
February 15, 1972 ~ October 10, 2026
54 Years Old
Tiffeny Flair Obituary
Full obituary to be posted
Services have been entrusted to the Robertson County Funeral Home.
Bill James
January 28, 1941 ~ October 12, 2026
85 Years Old
William Richard “Bill” James, 85, of Greenbrier, passed away on Monday October 12, 2026, at TriStar Summitt Medical Center in Nashville. Funeral services will be conducted Monday October 19th at 1:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Pastor Kenny Hix officiating. Interment will follow in Springfield Memorial Gardens with Dylan James, Beckham James, Cade James, Richard Washer, Jeremy Washer, Danny Smith, Bubba Smith, and Robert Holman serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Monday from 10:00 a.m. to service time at the funeral home.
Bill was born January 28, 1941, in Springfield, to the late Stewart and Nancy Justice James. He was a graduate of Jo Byrns High School, was retired from the maintenance department at Dupont and was of the Baptist faith. Bill loved farming, fishing, hunting, and raising a vegetable garden with his grandsons. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings: Robert James, Jeanette James, and Emma Lou Gower.
Bill is survived by his wife: Carole Rawls James of Greenbrier, by his son: Brian James of Springfield, by his grandson: Dylan James and wife Ashley, and by his great grandchildren: Beckham, Cade, and Hudson James.
Services have been entrusted to the Robertson County Funeral Home.
Terry “Red” Yates
December 11, 1975 ~ October 10, 2026
50 Years Old
Terry Lee “Red” Yates, age 50 of Springfield, passed from this life on Saturday, October 10, 2026 at his home. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday, October 15, 2026 at 1:00 PM in the Oakhurst Chapel of Robertson County Funeral Home with Melissa Pruitt officiating. Burial will follow in Springfield Memorial Gardens with Timmy Groves, Teddy Wayne Hall, Jeremey Harris, Randy McEwen, David Hall, and Roy Harris serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 4 until 8 PM and Thursday from 10 AM until the time of service.
Red was born December 11, 1975 in Springfield to Lonnie Yates and the late Helen Marie Mooneyhan Yates. He worked in tree trimming and farm work. In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by three brothers, James Wayne, Stephen and Robert Yates.
Surviving him are his daughters, Tara Yates and Gabrielle Yates, both of Springfield; father, Lonnie Yates of Springfield; brothers, Randall Yates of Springfield, Michael Yates of Springfield, and Jeffrey Yates of Cedar Hill; sisters, Marcie Harris of Springfield, Joyce Long of Russellville, KY, Cynthia Gutierrez of Springfield, and Janelle Brooks of California; and five grandchildren.
The family request, if so desired, for memorial donations to be made to Robertson County Funeral Home to assist with funeral expenses.
Services have been entrusted to the Robertson County Funeral Home.
Tillie (Haley) Alley
July 15, 1943 ~ October 6, 2026
83 Years Old
Tillie Haley Alley, 83, of Springfield, passed from this life on Tuesday October 6, 2026, at Centennial Medical Center. Graveside services will be conducted Thursday October 8th at 2:00 p.m. in the Springfield Memorial Gardens with Tim Harris officiating. Pallbearers will be Steve Haley, Lucas Haley, Robert Haley, Tom Haley, Steve Hayes, Trevor Hayes, Jonah Harris, Milton Crawford, and Steven Crawford. There will be no public visitation prior to the graveside service.
Tillie was born July 15, 1943, in Robertson County, to the late Tom and Bessie Moss Haley. She was a graduate of Greenbrier High School Class of 1961, was a retired cafeteria manager at Cheatham Park Elementary School, and was of the Baptist faith. Tillie loved cooking, raising a vegetable garden, canning, and seeing what everyone was doing on Facebook. Her favorite pastime was spending time with her family.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers: Morton E. Haley, Robert O. Haley, and Buford Douglas Haley, and by her brother-in-law: J.L. Alley. Tillie is survived by her husband of 65 years: Donny Alley of Springfield, by her daughter and son-in-law: Donna Jo and Terry Riley of Springfield, by her sisters: Shirley Crawford of Bowling Green, KY, and Arley Crawford of White House, by her brother-in-law and sisters-in-law: Noah and Billie Alley of Springfield, Janice Alley of Greenbrier, and by
Services have been entrusted to the Robertson County Funeral Home.
Diane Lynn (Pope) Choate
August 2, 1951 ~ October 5, 2026
75 Years Old
Diane Lynn Choate, age 75 of Cedar, passed from this life on Monday, October 5, 2026, at her home. A private family graveside service in Springfield Memorial Gardens will be held.
Diane was born August 2, 1951, in Springfield, to the late Billy and Betty James Pope. She was retired from Holley Carburetor where she was a supervisor. She loved her children and grandchildren and enjoyed being outside working with her hands in her flowers. She also enjoyed doing sudoku and word puzzles. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Billy Wayne Pope, and sisters, Sandra Pope Moses, Elizabeth Pope McEyea, and Terry Pope.
Diane is survived by her son and daughter-in-law: Ronnie and Lynn Choate of Cedar Hill, by her brothers: Ricky Pope, Jerry Pope, and John Eddie “Buzzy” Pope, by her sister: Penny Sloan, and by her 4 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.
Services have been entrusted to the Robertson County Funeral Home.
Charles Patrick Boyles
December 24, 1944 ~ October 1, 2026
81 Years Old
Charles Patrick Boyles, age 81 of Bishopville, SC, passed from this life on Thursday, October 1, 2026 at his home. Graveside services will be conducted Friday, October 9, 2026 at 2:00 PM in the Greenwood Cemetery in Adairville, KY with Rev. Allen Woodard officiating. There will be no visitation prior to the graveside service.
Mr. Boyles was born December 24, 1944 in Logan County, KY. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force and was of the Baptist faith. He worked in research for the United States Government until his retirement. He was preceded in death by his father, Herman Victor Boyles, Sr.; mother, Roberta Christine King Boyles Edwards; two brothers, Herman Victor Boyles, Jr. and Mike Edwards; and sister, Nancy Williams.
Surviving him are his brother and sister-in-law, Jeff and Penny Edwards of Adairville, KY; daughter and son-in-law, Sandy and Todd Hlavac of Menifee, CA; a granddaughter; and several nieces and nephews.
Services have been entrusted to the Robertson County Funeral Home.
Barbara Lovell
Feb 4, 1947 — Oct 8, 2026
Savannah, GA
Barbara Warfel Lovell passed away on October 8, 2026, in Savannah, Georgia. Born on February 4, 1947, in Cleveland, Ohio, she moved through life with a warmth that made people feel welcome, a bright spirit, and a deep instinct to care for others.
Barbara’s path was guided by both curiosity and compassion. She earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from D’Youville University in Buffalo, New York, and began her career working in a nursing home while continuing her education. She went on to earn a master’s degree in public health administration from Boston University, then served as a public health administrator for Union County, New Jersey. Her work reflected what came naturally to her: a generous heart and a desire to care for others.
That same devotion shaped her life at home. Barbara’s great love story began when she was just fourteen, when she met the young man who would become her husband. In high school, they were named King and Queen of the senior ball—a fitting start to a partnership filled with joy, affection, and dancing. They loved to dance together, especially to Perry Como’s “Once Upon a Time,” a song that holds a special piece of their story. Her husband and children were among her proudest accomplishments, and family remained at the center of her life.
Barbara had a rare radiance. She was beautiful, but what people remembered most was the light she carried – her wonderful smile. Outgoing, lovable, and kind, she never knew a stranger. She met life with innocent wonder and always put others before herself. Her energy and openness drew people close; her generosity made them feel cared for.
Barbara embraced life with curiosity. She traveled widely and made homes abroad in London and Dubai. She treasured family ski trips to Vail, Park City, and Austria, and brought the same enthusiasm to everyday pleasures. She loved cooking, and her family especially looked forward to her Yorkshire pudding at the holidays. She enjoyed gardening, as her mother had, and had a tender place in her heart for animals—especially Chester and Mollie, the family’s golden retrievers. Whether walking, traveling, cooking, or spending time with those she loved, Barbara brought her lively spirit with her.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, John and Marjorie Warfel. She is survived by her loving husband of fifty-seven years, Thomas Henry Lovell Jr.; her children, Thomas Henry Lovell III and Jeffrey Rives Lovell and his wife, Casey Leigh Thompson; her brother, David Warfel; her sister, Susan W. Love; her sister-in-law, Malissa L. Sparks; and dear friends she considered family: Steve and Pam Schroeder, and Carolyn and Bari Saunders.
Barbara will be remembered for the light she brought into a room and the care she brought into people’s lives. A life lived with an open heart, her warmth will remain with all who knew and loved her.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in memory of Barbara Warfel Lovell to the End Alz Association or to a charity of your choosing.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
Paul Coleman
Apr 20, 1945 — Oct 10, 2026
Hendersonville, TN
Paul Ray Coleman, of Hendersonville, Tennessee, passed away on October 10, 2026. Born on April 20, 1945, Paul lived a life marked by dedication to his country, unwavering love for his family, and a deep commitment to those he held dear.
Paul proudly served in the United States Army from 1963 until 1990, completing more than 27 years of military service and attaining the rank of Sergeant Major. Throughout his distinguished career, he demonstrated the leadership, discipline, and dedication that defined his life. His service to his country was a source of great pride and remained an important part of who he was.
Following his military retirement, Paul continued his career of service by working for the United States Postal Service for 10 years. He later worked as a school bus driver for the Sumner County school system, continuing to serve his community and help ensure the safe transportation of local children.
Above all his accomplishments, Paul’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He shared 63 years with his beloved wife and the love of his life, Betty Jane Coleman (Sivak). Together, they built a life centered on love, commitment, and family, raising their children and welcoming grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought immeasurable happiness into their lives.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents, William B. Coleman and Lois Mae Coleman (Lindsey); his sister, Dolly Groom (Coleman); his beloved daughter, Connie Sue Galbreath (Coleman); and his cherished great-granddaughter, Emerson Kate Ayers, who passed away at just 16 months old.
Though Emerson’s time on earth was heartbreakingly short, she shared a special and enduring bond with Paul. The love they shared left a lasting mark on his heart and remained a precious part of his family’s story.
Paul is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Betty Jane Coleman (Sivak); his son, Timothy Ray Coleman, and daughter-in-law, Cindy; his son, Danny Eugene Coleman; and his son-in-law, Keith Galbreath.
He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: granddaughter Tenley Ayers (Jason), grandsons Evan Coleman and Eric Coleman (Ellie), and his great-grandchildren, Adley Ayers and Sawyer Ayers, who will carry forward his legacy of love and family devotion.
Paul especially treasured the time he spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a proud grandfather who found joy in their company and took great pleasure in watching them grow. Among those closest to his heart was his granddaughter, Tenley Ayers, who affectionately called him “Dadden.” Their special relationship was a treasured part of his life, reflecting a deep and lasting love that will forever remain in her heart.
Paul’s love for his family extended across generations. He was immensely proud of his grandsons, Evan and Eric, and his great-grandchildren, Adley and Sawyer. Each held a special place in his heart, and the memories they created together will remain a source of comfort and strength for years to come.
Paul will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, and a soldier who dedicated more than 27 years of his life to serving his country. His life was defined not only by the rank he achieved or the careers he pursued, but also by the family he loved, the relationships he nurtured, and the countless memories he leaves behind.
His family will forever cherish the lessons he taught, the stories he shared, the time they spent together, and the love he gave so freely. Though his passing leaves a profound void in the lives of those who loved him, his legacy of service, devotion, and family will live on through the generations.
A soldier, a husband, a father, and a grandfather—Paul Ray Coleman served his country with honor and loved his family with all his heart. His watch may have ended, but his legacy will never fade.
May he rest in peace, reunited with his beloved daughter, Connie Sue, and great-granddaughter, Emerson Kate, and forever remembered by the family whose lives he helped shape.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
Andrew Douglas “Drew” Carter
February 13, 2002 – October 7, 2026
Andrew Douglas “Drew” Carter, age 24, of White House, passed away Wednesday, October 7, 2026. Funeral services will be conducted at 2pm Thursday, October 15th, in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield.
The family will receive friends from 11am until 2pm Thursday, at the funeral home.
Mr. Carter was born February 13, 2002, in Springfield, to Robert Randle and Rachel Erin Carter. He worked in the restaurant industry most of his working years, and most recently as a manager.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Randle Carter; and his grandparents, Bobby Randle and Gladys Ann Carter.
Drew is survived by his mother, Rachel Erin Carter; sister, Mackenzie Dawn Carter; brothers, Logan Randle Carter and Colton Reid Carter; grandmother, Kimberly Dawn Wilson; grandfather, Douglas Elroy Smith and his wife Virginia Kathleen Smith; aunts, Adrian Dawn (Robert E.) Lee and Emily Danielle Smith; and uncles, Weston Lee Wilson, Dylan Trey Wilson, Lucas McKane Smith and Michael Chad (Julie DeAnna) Green.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME-
509 WALNUT STREET, SPRINGFIELD, TN (615) 384-1000
Eugene Pursley
July 8, 1932 – October 9, 2026
Richard “Eugene” Pursley, age 94, of Ashland City, Tennessee, died Friday, October 9, 2026, at his home.
Funeral services will be conducted at 1 o’clock pm, Tuesday, October 13th, at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View with Bro. Johnny Trail officiating.
Burial will follow in Blue Springs Cemetery in Ashland City with Daniel Connell, Micah Connell, Brent Pursley, Joey Knight, Ty Knight, Adam Moore, Addison Moore, and Ben Knight serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday, October 12th from 4:00-8:00PM, and again on Tuesday beginning at 11:00AM until the hour of service at 1:00PM.
Mr. Eugene was born on July 8, 1932, in Ashland City, to the late Johnny & Gracie Pursley. He was employed by Wholesale Builders, then later worked for Andersen Windows. He loved square dancing, gardening, fishing, and ginseng hunting. He also enjoyed raising chickens and selling eggs. He was a member of Sycamore Chapel church of Christ.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter, Linda Pursley; granddaughters, Brittney & Megan Newman; and siblings, Christine Newman, Carolyn Parker Mildred Newman, Ruby Newman, Annie Hornburger, Simon Pursley, John Pursley, and Willard Pursley.
He is survived by his wife, Annie Pursley, whom he married on December 28, 1987; daughters, Jean (Leonard) Lewis, Jane (Dwight) Newman, and Bonnie Connell; son, Bobby (Leigh) Knight; brother, Willie Pursley, and wife, Brenda; sister, Shirley Holt; and 17 grandchildren.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146 (615) 746-4433
David Joseph Hoyle
May 27, 1986 – October 7, 2026
David Joseph Hoyle, age 40, of Nashville, passed away Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at the TriStar Skyline Medical Center. Funeral services will be conducted at 4pm Wednesday, October 14th, in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield with Greg Galloway, Gerald Williams and William Wilder officiating.
The family will receive friends from 3-4pm Wednesday at the funeral home.
Mr. Hoyle was born May 27, 1986, in Fort Worth, TX, to Richard Allen and Lori Denise Hoyle. He worked in the fence installation industry most of his life.
Mr. Hoyle was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Fred Allen and Betty Elizabeth Hoyle.
He is survived by his wife, Sarah Hoyle; daughters, Bethany Hoyle and Lilly Hoyle; parents, Richard and Lori Hoyle; brothers, Michael Hoyle and Johnathan Hoyle; niece, Sarah Elizabeth Hoyle; and a special cousin, Jeff Hoyle.
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
Jeanna Renee Taylor
November 6, 1973 – October 6, 2026
Jeanna Renee Taylor from Portland, Tennessee passed away Tuesday, October 6th 2026 at Hendersonville Hospital surrounded by family, after a long battle with cancer. Jeanna was born on November 6th, 1973 in Jonesborough Tennessee.
She is preceded in death by her father, Jerry Lee Taylor and her sister, Jennifer Leigh Smith. She is survived by her mother, June Taylor, daughter Makenzie Campbell, brother-in-law, Mark (Trish) Smith, nephews Matthew Smith, Evan (Taylor) Smith and former Husband and best friend Thomas Campbell and multiple relatives in East Tennessee. Jeanna was a Daughter, Aunt, Mother and close friend, known for her love of family, her personality and huge heart.
She was a member of Portland First Baptist Church for many years and was a believer in our Lord and Savior. She fought her battle bravely and gracefully, and she will be missed all.
Funeral service is scheduled for Friday, October 9, 2026 at 12pm in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House with Bro. Mike Bond officiating. Interment will follow in White House Memorial Gardens with Thomas Campbell, Mark Smith, Matthew Smith, Evan Smith, Danny Campbell and Joey Hardin serving as pallbearers.
Visitation is planned for Thursday, October 8, 2026 4-8PM and Friday, October 9, 2026 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
Dave Jones
April 22, 1941 – October 2, 2026
David V. “Dave” Jones, 85, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family. Born April 22, 1941, in Troy, New York, he was the son of the late Edward John Jones and Genevieve Kugler Jones.
Dave was a lifelong resident of Clifton Park, New York, for most of his life before moving to Coopertown, Tennessee, in 2023 to be with his daughter, Dawn. He was a graduate of LaSalle High School, attended RPI and a graduate of Siena College.
Dave dedicated nearly four decades of his career to the New York State Department of Transportation in Albany, New York. He was a hardworking and dependable man who was always willing to help others. A giver by nature, Dave was a caretaker not only to the people he loved, but also to the many dogs who held a special place in his heart.
He enjoyed golfing and watching his favorite sports, especially football, baseball, and hockey. Dave was deeply patriotic and loved his country dearly. He was known for his stubborn streak, quick wit, and wonderful sense of humor. Qualities that made him uniquely Dave.
His dogs were among his greatest loves, especially his long-haired German Shepherds. He was predeceased by his beloved best friend and constant companion, Moose, and is survived by Tank and Hawk, who brought him great joy.
Dave was predeceased by his brothers, Edward Jones, Robert Jones, Jackie Jones, and James Jones, and his sister, Kathleen McGuire.
He is survived by his son, David J. Jones (Susan); his daughters, Dawn M. Wind (Bobby), Donielle Egan (Mark Pingelski), and Darcelle Reed (Jeff); his grandchildren, Taylor, Connor, and Carly Jones; Bailey and Nikki Wind; Fenwick and Morgan Egan; and Julius and Preston Reed; his great-grandson, Jack Jones; several nieces and nephews; and lifelong friends from his years working for New York State.
Dave will be remembered for his generous heart, his loyalty to family and friends, his love of animals, his patriotism, and the humor he brought into the lives of those around him. He was a one-of-a-kind man who gave much of himself to others and will be deeply missed.
At the request of the family, services will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Dave’s name can be made to the Kidney Foundation by visiting kidney.org
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View assisted the family with local arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146 (615) 746-4433
