In Loving Memory: Obituaries Aug. 17-24, 2020
ROBERTSON COUNTY TENNESSEE: (Smokey Barn News)
*Refresh this page for updates and newly listed obituaries for this week.
Obituary For Mary Ann Fort
MaryAnn Fort was born March 17, 1945 in Keysburg, Kentucky to the late William Ogburn and the late Jeretha Bell Ogburn.
Later in life she moved to Springfield, Tennessee. She left her Earthly Home for her Heavenly Home on August 15, 2020.
She was educated in the Robertson County School System. At an early age, she professed a hope in Christ at New Wells Grove Baptist Church. Later she joined Beards Chapel Baptist Church where she served as an Usher, member of the Pastors Aide, sang in the choir, member of both the Cooking Ministry, and the Youth Ministry. She was also an Eastern Star member.
She worked at many factories until she retired from the Elm Nursing Home. She was a dedicated mother and grandmother. She enjoyed cooking, was a seamstress and she owned Nannie Day Care.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother, William Bellamy and one sister, Edna Gray.
She leaves to cherish her memories: five children, Deloris (Dobbie) Smith, Patrick Smith of Springfield, TN, Danielle Fort of Indianapolis, IN, James Fort of Nashville, TN, and Angela Fort of Russellville, KY; six sisters, Nancy Summers, Patricia Payne, Mary R. Lunsford all of Springfield, TN, Peggy Jones of Nashville, TN, Ruth Lamar and Patricia Bigbee, both of Indianapolis, IN; five brothers, Will Ogburn, Boyd Ogburn both of Indianapolis, IN, Harold Ogburn and Eugene Ogburn both of Springfield, TN and Richard Bell of Allensville, KY; grandchildren, Deandre Turner, Candace Moore, Michael Moore, Martize Leavell, Jamalachi McClain, Aaliyah Smith and Dylon Fort; step-mother, Beulah J. Lunsford; ten great-grandchildren; aunt, Frances Lunsford; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins; special friends, Edna Benton, Grace Ellis, Linda Hill and Marquati Brown.
Funeral Services were Saturday, August 22, 2020 at 1 pm at W. D. Crowder Funeral Home with Pastor Randy Taylor, Eulogy and Interment was in Restlawn Memorial Garden.
Arrangements entrusted to W. D. Crowder Funeral Home
Obituary for Lyle Ruiz Bennett
“Old man take a look at my life, I’m a lot like you were.” We all are, because he was so many things
On August 21, 2020 at around 3:30 in the morning, after a long and brave fight with cancer, Lyle Ruiz Bennett Sr. departed peacefully to his next adventure. He told us he was ready and had his bags packed, no passport needed. We are all sure his bags were carefully and thoughtfully packed and also had bags hanging off of those bags. He was ever the lover of travel and all facets of travel. Bags and stuff and style were a huge priority in his life. He was a maven of fashion and accessories till the very end. Dare we say his ultimate accessories were his huge family? He decided long ago he never wanted to be alone and that family was the most important part of his life. He was true to that, always there if you needed him. We would say he was the best playlist man you’d ever meet. He had such a love and appreciation of music. He was a wine, port and whiskey expert also, so he said. So many great stories about those things. He was expressive, humorous, clever, witty, funny. A jokester. The Joker. He was a color-changing LED fan. He was never boring, for sure. He was so, so smart and loved to teach. He knew the way. If it wasn’t just so, he’d hack. He was a figure-outer. That was part of the fun of life for him. Always an easy master of sport. At Central High School in Murfreesboro, TN he played football and wrestled. After high school and through college he mastered it all, too many to name, really. Roofer, herbalist, scuba diver, explorer, survivalist, technologist, Jedi Master and the list goes on. Golf was his last favorite sport. He would come home after a round and tell stories about how he “lost another friend” because of how badly he beat them. He was also an avid fan of the college football. He was a yelling at the tv type of a guy. It was fun to watch and it was fun to be around him. His knowledge of the world was vast. Partly because he loved to read up on the news, but also because he travelled so much. I bet if I had a map and randomly pointed he’d of gone there and also would be able to tell you a story of it. His story would be about a person he met, and a thing he did, a food he ate, how he single-handedly did whatever it was. He had so many stories. He could talk to anyone. He would make friends with them all.
Surviving him is his wife, Kelly Tolson; his aunt, Dusty Bennett; brother, David Bennett; his 9 children: Melanie Cagle, Sunny Bennett, Christopher Bennett, Aaron Bennett, Lyle Ruiz Bennett Jr., David Bennett, Jared Bennett, Rachel Bennett, and Adrienne Westergard; plus his grandchildren, In-Laws, cousins and a wide group of the very best friends a person could ever ask for.
All in all, Lyle was a spiritual man. A believer of angels and miracles. His energy was vast, is vast still, and will remain forever vast. He said if you wanted to talk with him. Just talk. He will be there, and will continue to be there, if you need him. We love you Lyle, Lylito, Grandpa, Papa, DaddiO, Lovie. Thanks for giving us your time and sharing everything you gave. You will be missed by many many people.
Celebration of Lyle’s Life will be September 6, 2020, from 2:30-7pm. Details can be found by joining our Facebook group: Lyle Loved Life or by emailing: [email protected].
Services entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Hendersonville.
Obituary for Effie Mae Strain Payne
Effie Mae Strain Payne, 90, of Cottontown, passed from this life on Sunday August 23, 2020 at her home.
Funeral services will be conducted Saturday August 29th at 1:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery in Cottontown.
The family will receive friends on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Full obituary to follow. Tribute Wall
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of memorial service.
Obituary Michael Travis Kinney
Michael Travis Kinney, 36, of Cross Plains, passed away Tuesday August 18, 2020 at his home. His remains were cremated and the family plans to have a Celebration of Life service at a future date.
Michael was born January 9, 1984 in Ironton, OH. He was a Machinist for Process Welding Systems. Michael loved playing the drums, being outdoors, watching anything Sci-Fi, and spending time with his family, especially his daughter Regan.
Michael is survived by his wife: Kayley Bollan Kinney of Cross Plains, his daughter: Regan Kinney of Cross Plains, his father: Tom Kinney of Ohio, his mother: Cindy Childers of Ohio, his brothers: Thomas Kinney of California and Troy Kinney of Ohio, and by his sister: Melanie Jeannie of Ohio.
If so desired, the family ask that memorial contributions be given to Kayley Kinney for the Regan Kinney Fund. Please makes checks payable to Kayley Kinney and send them c/o Robertson County Funeral Home 2201 Memorial Blvd. Springfield, TN 37172
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of memorial service.
Obituary for William David “Bill” Johnson
William David “Bill” Johnson, 63, of Springfield, passed from this life on Monday August 17, 2020 at St. Thomas West Hospital.
A Celebration of Life service was conducted Sunday August 23rd at 3:00 p.m. at Red River Farms 5350 Draper Rd. in Springfield with Tim Harris officiating. The family received friends on Sunday from 11:00 a.m. until service time at Red River Farms. Honorary pallbearers were the employees of CEMC in Portland.
Bill was born December 4, 1956 in Memphis to the late Robert Jackson and Dorothy Beck Johnson. He was a graduate of East Robertson High School Class of 1975. Bill was a Lineman by trade for over 30 years, and he was a Working Foreman with CEMC in Portland. He was of the Catholic faith and was a member of IBEW Local 175. Bill loved camping, his Harley motorcycle, “The Blaze”, his job and fellow workers, and especially spending time with his family.
Bill is survived by his wife: Vickie Sneed Johnson of Springfield, by his son: Justin Johnson of Springfield, by his daughters and son-in-law: Julie Johnson Groves and Josh Groves of Springfield, and Jenny Johnson of Springfield, by his grandchildren: Lanika and Serinity, by his brother and sister-in-law; Bob and Sherry Johnson of Cross Plains, by his sisters and brothers-in-law: Vicki and Terry Hester of Springfield, Becky and Marvin Wall of Springfield, by his in-laws: Bobby and Jackie Sneed, Debbie Sneed, Buddy (Jackie Adams) Sneed, Toodle (Melissa) Sneed, and David (Barbara) Sneed all of Springfield, by several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, and by the one that outranked anybody and everybody, his big black dog: Ace.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to the American Red Cross. Tribute Wall
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of memorial service.
Obituary for Mary Jacqueline Sawyers
Mary Jacqueline Sawyers, age 85 of Hendersonville, passed away at her home on Saturday, August 22, 2020.
She was born in Pawnee, OK to Jack Walter and Mary Ellen Long. Mary is survived by her daughter, Kathy Sawyers, of Hendersonville.
All services will be conducted from Poteet Funeral Home in Pawnee, OK.
Local services entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Hendersonville.
Obituary for Marion Russell Davis
Marion Russell Davis, age 104 of Springfield, passed away Thursday, August 20, 2020 at his residence.
The funeral service was held 12pm on Saturday, August 22 at Austin & Bell Funeral Home Greenbrier with Rev. Nathan Washburn and Bro. Steve Sorrells officiating. The family received friends 10am until time of service on Saturday at the funeral home. Burial followed in Springfield Memorial Gardens.
He was born in Kingston, Ohio on December 10, 1915 to the late Harley and Florence Pontious Davis. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Christine Crabtree Davis; son, Ronald R. Davis, sister, Evelyn Davis Stephenson and a brother, Cecil Davis.
He was retired from Genesco where he was a Cost Accountant. He was a member of First Baptist Greenbrier. He loved his family and enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, great and great-great grandchildren. He was a kind and gentle man who enjoyed gardening, watching Lawrence Welk shows and football.
He is survived by son, Richard C. (Donna) Davis; daughter, Glenda Davis Head; daughter-in-law, Gayle Davis; nephew, Joe Stephenson; 7 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren and man nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers will be Scott Elder, Cody Elder, Carson Elder, Chris Davis, Will Davis and Richard Davis, Jr.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to First Baptist Greenbrier, P.O. Box 485, Greenbrier, TN 37073.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier is in charge of these arrangements.
Obituary for Adalyn Mae Murillo
Age 1 day Adalyn was born prematurely to Angelica Potter and Enrique Murillo on August 19, 2020 at St. Thomas Midtown in Nashville, TN and she went home to be with the Lord August 20, 2020.
She is survived by her parents; sister, Isabella Murillo, all of Goodlettsville, TN; maternal grandparents, Casey & Jannette Potter, Raleigh, NC; paternal grandparents, Enrique & Maria Carmen Murillo, Hohenwald, TN There are no services or visitation planned.
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Bill Rains
Bill Edward Rains, age 84, of Springfield, passed away Thursday, August 20, 2020 at NHC Healthcare.
A graveside service was held Monday, August 24, 2020 at 1pm in the Springfield Memorial Gardens with Dr. Jerry Wallace officiating. Burial followed with Brian Shipman, Jay Shipman, Morgan Shipman, Brian Honeycutt, Bryant Pope, Crickett Traughber, Lucus Dempsey and John Traughber serving as pallbearers.
A private visitation was held at the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield
Mr. Rains was born September 26, 1935 in Rosebury, Texas to the late Homer O. and Clara Henderson Rains. He worked at Walmart, was a veteran of the U.S. Army, and was a member of the Springfield 1st United Methodist Church.
In addition to his parents Mr. Rains is preceded in death by his brothers, Calvin Rains and Kenneth Rains and his sisters, Clara Riley and Wanda Rains. He is survived by his wife, Imogene Parchman Rains; daughters, Teresa (Brian) Rains Shipman of Lebanon, Darlene Boyd of Murfreesboro and Crickett (John) Traughber of Springfield; grandchildren, Rachael (Erik) Anschicks, James (Veronica) Shipman, Morgan Shipman, Abigail Shipman, Michael Shipman, Lucus Dempsey, Beth Honeycutt and Megan Pope; and great-grandchildren, Ellie Beth Shipman, Samuel Shipman, Carson Dempsey, Maddie Dempsey, Roland Pope, Piper Pope, Ella Honeycutt and Tyler Honeycutt.
If so desired memorial contributions may be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association. Any donations may be sent in c/o Austin & Bell.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.
Obituary for Nellie Ruth Hunter
Age 83 of Goodlettsville went home to be with the Lord Wednesday, August 19, 2020 at her home. She was born January 21, 1937 in White House, TN to John & Nellie England Bayliss. She worked and was a faithful member of the Church at Grace Park before her retirement. Mrs. Hunter truly had a servant’s heart and the time she spent working at the church was truly a labor of love that she enjoyed so very much. She also enjoyed drinking coffee and talking with her friends and driving her truck. She had a very outgoing personality and never met a stranger. She also worked the voting polls and helped to coordinate all of the delicious snacks that the church provided for voters.
She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Carlton Hunter; son, Joe Howard Hunter; brothers, John Bayliss and James Bayliss; sisters, Gladys Nash and Pauline Morris. She is survived by her daughter, Debbie (Dale) Leftwich, Hendersonville, TN; 6 grandchildren, JoJo (Sherika) Hunter, Justin Hunter, Kimberly (Steven) Jolley, Jeremy (Lindsay) Leftwich, Holly Leftwich and Nathan Hunter; 8 great-grandchildren.
Graveside service and interment is scheduled for Sunday, September 6, 2020 at 3pm in White House Memorial Gardens with Pastor Bob Cook officiating and with family and friends serving as pallbearers. There is no public visitation scheduled. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association 478 Craighead Street, #201 Nashville, TN 37204
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Bryan Wayne Duke
Bryan Wayne Duke, age 60 of Hendersonville, passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2020. He was a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Duke; parents, Don and Nancy Duke and his sister, Becky Bell.
He is survived by his daughter, Misty (Billy) Byrd; grandchildren, Zachary Bauernfeind, Dakota Byrd and Whitney Shariati.
No services are planned at this time.
Services entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Hendersonville.
Obituary for Cynthia Seibert
Cynthia Seibert was born as Kreszenz Suppmayer in Scheyern, Bavaria on Aug 30, 1924. Scheyern was a small community for centuries that derived its life from the Kloster Scheyern beginning as a Benedictine Monastery around the year 1120. In about 1922, her family of four moved into a house which had been the office of the burgermeister and the town’s jail in the 1800’s. Eventually, four more sisters and two of their children would be born in the same house. They lived within direct sight of Kloster Scheyern which flourishes to this day, is known as Scheyern Abbey, and is still under the direction of the Benedictines.
Kreszenz, as surely as most of the local children did, received her secular and Catholic education at the school founded by the abbey in 1838 and which continued classes until the Nazis closed the school in 1939.
As a young teenager, Cynthia was attending school to be a teacher. Those plans ended with the death of her father and with the upheaval of WW2. As the 2nd oldest of the sisters, her mother summoned her back home to help the now fatherless family. She got work in a baby food factory in Munich, about 35 miles away. She narrowly escaped from her temporary home during one of the many aerial bombing and strafing attacks of WW2. Afterwards, she was able to catch a train back to Scheyern where the aerial attacks were not as devastating. They often lent a room to refugees who came from the bombed cities, and the sisters would just pack themselves into another room.
After the war, the German people were destitute and competed for any work that was doled out by the Allied occupation armies or by their appointees. It was while working at the local US Army Camp that she met Sgt. Louis Stanley Seibert of the 116th Signal Service Company, and they married in Scheyern.
After coming to the United States, Kreszenz became a US citizen and then legally changed her name to Cynthia, as many immigrants did to ‘Americanize’ their names. The family which soon included daughter, Dolores (Heidi), and son, Louis, lived in Italy, NC, OH, AL, and GA. She was a full time ‘hausfrau’ and mother to her two children, Dolores (Heidi) and Louis. She introduced her children to church attendance, the Catholic faith, and catechism at an early age. Then in 1966, her husband unexpectedly died.
Remaining a widow thereafter, she became a department manager at Roses Department stores. She was a frequent volunteer at the Augusta, GA Veterans Administration hospitals. After Louis left for college and career, her local family was her eldest sister Betty and her middle sister Theresa, whom also lived in Augusta. All of the families attended St. Joseph Church.
In 1996, she moved to Dothan, AL to live with son, Louis and daughter-in-law, Michelle. For five years in Dothan, she was an active member at St. Columba Church and a regular volunteer at Catholic Social Services in town.
In 2001, she moved to Hendersonville where she sought out her final church home, namely OLOL. She was a regular member of her ladies Bible group and at her weekly chapel adoration prayer group until such time as her failing eyesight and other health issues prevented her.
Cynthia suffered a massive stroke on August 18th and then died on the 19th, 11 days before her 96th birthday. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Betty, Theresa, Agnes, and Regine, all of whom migrated either to the USA or to Canada after WW2. Her youngest sister, Marianne, still lives in Germany. She also leaves behind her daughter Heidi, her son Louis, her grand-daughters Lisa and Kristine, and one great grandson, Ryan.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, August 27, 2020 from 11:00am until her Funeral Mass at 1:00pm at Our Lady of The Lake Catholic Church with Father Luke Wilgenbusch officiating.
Interment will be with her husband in Marietta National Cemetery in Georgia on August 28 at 1:00pm
Services are entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Hendersonville.
Obituary for Eddie Jackson
Eddie Newsome Jackson, age 72, of Inverness, FL and formerly of Robertson County, passed away Tuesday, August 18, 2020.
Mr. Jackson’s remains will be cremated and a Celebration of his Life will be held in Inverness, FL at a later date.
A Memorial Service was held Saturday, August 22, 2020 at 2pm at the Oakwood Baptist Church, 3855 Oakwood Church Road, Cedar Hill, TN 37032.
Mr. Jackson was born January 19, 1948 in Cedar Hill, TN to the late Newsome H. and Frances Williams Jackson. He worked as a truck driver and was of the Baptist Faith. He enjoyed camping and attending races. He loved his job and his co-workers but especially loved his children and grandchildren.
In addition to his parents Mr. Jackson is preceded in death by his nephew, Kenneth Lee “Bubba” Ferrell, Jr. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly Bouton Jackson; sons, Eddie (Carol Ann) Jackson, Jr. of Gallatin, Jeffery (Melanie) Jackson of Greenbrier and Mark Jackson of Nashville; daughters, Brittany Jackson and Ashley Trigin, both of Inverness, FL and Sherry (Joe) Buck of Joelton; brother, Charles Jackson of Cedar Hill; sisters, Shelia Spooner and Patricia “Susie” Ferrell, both of Springfield and Ann (Hugh) Chadwell of Nashville; grandchildren, Casey (Jessica) Lowe, Christopher Lowe, Nicholas Jackson, Brandon Jackson and Nevaeh Jackson; great-grandchildren, Easton Lowe, Jaxon Lowe and Brantley Lowe; and nieces and nephews, Jerry McCormick, Melanie Pricher, Amanda Spooner, Paul Spooner, Melissa Stewart, Kimberly Crawford, Chasity Spann, Ella Stewart, Jesse Crawford, Shelby Taylor, Nicholas Jackson and Jon Wranovics.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.
Obituary for Bartley Colten Lempicki
Age 57 of Cottontown passed away Monday, August 17, 2020 in Hendersonville, TN. He was born March 28, 1963 in Radford, VA to Richard & Peggy Hutson Lempicki. He had been the owner/operator of Lempicki Excavating for 30+ years. He enjoyed fishing and he loved and raised horses. Bart was an avid University of Alabama fan and was a member of White House First United Methodist Church.
He is preceded in death by his parents; step-father, Homer Wright; step-sister, Lisa Ratte. He is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Beverly Lempicki; sons, Jesse (Karlee) Lempicki and Wyatt Lempicki, all of Cottontown, TN; brother, Kevin (Rubby) Wright, Greenbrier, TN; sisters, Linda (Brad) Jones, Cottontown, TN and Leigh Ann (Mark) Stamps, Hendersonville, TN.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service was held Saturday, August 22, 2020 at 5pm in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House. Visitation was held Saturday, August 22, 2020 1-5pm at the funeral home.
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Stephen Jerome Plautz
Stephen “Steve” Jerome Plautz, 78, of Hendersonville, TN passed away on August 17, 2020.
Steve was born on July 8, 1942 in Cleveland, OH to Mary (Meljac) and Steven Plautz. He graduated from Holy Name High School in 1960 and from the University of Dayton in 1964. On August 5, 1967, he married Marjorie Ellen (Lynch).
Steve started his career as a high school history teacher at Bedford High School in 1965. He transitioned his career into the insurance field in 1968 and enjoyed a long, successful career in various management and leadership roles. Later in his insurance career, he enjoyed most his role as financial advisor helping people develop financial plans for their future and retirement.
Steve never met a stranger. He enjoyed meeting and talking with people. He had a quick wit and his conversations were rich and engaging. Steve was a dedicated husband, dad, brother, and loyal friend. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, photography, watching his beloved Cleveland Indians and NASCAR, and spending time with his family.
Steve is survived by his wife Marge, and daughters Stephani (Ed) Ryan of Nashville, TN, and Shannon (Courtney Smith) of Tampa, FL. He is also survived by his sister, Cynthia (Leonard) Ringenbach of Cleveland, OH, and brother, Robert “Bud” Plautz of New York, NY, step-grandchildren, Zach (Meighan) Ryan and Colleen Ryan, several cousins, and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Steven Plautz.
A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family instead suggests donations to Steve’s favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Services are entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Hendersonville.
Obituary for Vicki Kay Cranford
Vicki Kay Cranford, age 68, of Only, TN, left this earth behind to go dance with the angels on August 17, 2020. She was a caring and beautiful person who was loved by all who knew her and will be missed deeply by all who cherished her.
The family received friends Thursday, August 20, 2020 from 3:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Austin & Bell Funeral Home, 2619 Hwy 41S, Greenbrier, TN 37073 and on Friday August 21, 2020 from 12:00 to 1:00 pm prior to the Celebration of Life service at 1:00 PM at the funeral home with Pastor Nathan Batson officiating.
Vicki was born March 12, 1952 in Monterey, TN the daughter of Priscilla Woods Stults Sinor and James Stults. She worked and retired after 17 years of service and dedication to Skyline Centennial Heart Partners. She was an excellent seamstress who made clothes for herself and others, curtains, quilts and many other items for her home. She loved the ocean, the outdoors, animals and all God’s creatures. Her Grand dog, Stella, held a special place in her heart. She was a dedicated follower of Jesus Christ and a member of New Life Church.
She was preceded in death by her husband Glenn Cranford on November 16, 2016; her father, James Stults; her mother, Priscilla Woods Stults Sinor and step-father, Douglas “Mac” Sinor. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Cheri and John Warner; Step-sons and their wives, Bobby and Natalie Cranford, Barry and Becky Cranford; brother, Danny Stults; sisters, Patti (Ronnie) Rogers, Jean (Larry) Orndorff, Debbie (Gary) Beazley, and Kathy Stults; grandchildren, Kaeleigh (Phillip) Powell, Hannah Warner, Avery Cranford, Justin Cranford, Allie Cranford, Maddox Cranford; great grandchildren, Isaac, Jaakan and Josiah Powell. She is also survived by a host of extended family, friends and coworkers and many loving nieces and nephews.
Final resting place is Forest Lawn Cemetery, Goodlettsville, TN. Honorary pallbearers were Shane Stults, Nick Rogers, and Todd Stults. John Warner, Bobby Cranford, Barry Cranford, Justin Cranford, Chad Rogers, Gary Beazley, Ronnie W. Rogers and Colby Rogers served as pallbearers.
If desired, contributions may be made in Memory of Vicki Kay Cranford to the charity very close to her heart, The Alzheimer’s Association, 478 Craighead St., Suite 200, Nashville, TN 37204.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier is in charge of these arrangements.
(Updated) LAST WEEKS OBITUARIES
Obituary for James Max Baer
James Max Baer, age 70 of Greenbrier passed away Sunday, August 16, 2020 at Centennial Medical Center.
A Celebration of life gathering was held 1 pm to 4pm, Saturday, August 22 at Austin & Bell Funeral Home Greenbrier.
He was born in Greenville, SC on April 25 1950 to the late George and Nora Henderson Baer. He was also preceded in death by sisters, Gayle and Ann.
He was a Sales Representative for A&L Bearing Company. He loved playing the guitar, playing video games with the grandchildren, gardening and cooking.
He is survived by son, Neil Baer of Goodlettsville, TN; daughter, Ann (Jason) Kennedy of Columbia, TN; grandchildren, Harlem Kennedy and Nellie Baer.
The family request that flowers/plants being sent be living so they might plant gardens in memory of their father.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier is in charge of these arrangements.
Obituary for Robert Filmore Garrett
Robert Filmore Garrett, 95, of Greenbrier, passed away on Thursday August 13, 2020 at North Crest Medical Center.
Graveside services were conducted Saturday August 15th at 11:00 a.m. in the Springfield Memorial Gardens with Danny Wilson officiating. Pallbearers were Elliott Dorris, Ricky Buckliew, Tim Wilson, Andrew Perry, James Garrett, Jr., and George Haynes. The family received friends at the graveside service.
Mr. Garrett was born February 9, 1925 in Greenbrier to the late Jody and Mary Bloodworth Garrett. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother: James Garrett. Mr. Garrett was of the Baptist faith, having attended Ebenezer Baptist Church since childhood. He loved the Lord and believed in reading his Bible daily and praying for his family and friends. His faith was strong, and he always believed that God would take care of him and those he loved and cared about. Mr. Garrett was a lifelong farmer and his greatest joy in life was working the land. He loved being outdoors caring for his animals and spending time with his beloved pug, Myrtle.
Mr. Garrett is survived by his wife, Susan Ward Garrett of Greenbrier, by his daughter and son-in-law: Sandra and George Haynes of Greenbrier, by his stepson: Danny Wilson of Greenbrier, and by his 3 grandchildren, 2 nieces, and 1 nephew.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of memorial service.
Obituary for James O’Neal McKisic, Sr.
James O’Neal McKisic, Sr., 88, of Goodlettsville, entered into the joy of his Lord on Thursday August 13, 2020 at NHC Healthcare in Springfield.
In honor of his wishes, his remains were cremated, and a private family Celebration of Life was held.
Mr. McKisic was born December 3, 1931 in Springfield to the late Sidney Dilliard and Myrtle Conn McKisic. He accepted Christ at an early age at Jerusalem Temple in Springfield. He attended school in the Robertson County School system. Mr. McKisic served 15 years in the Army and Airforce branches of service. He was one of the first African American Dental Specialist in the armed forces. His declarations and awards from the military included the Army of Occupation Medal (Germany), and the National Defense Service Medal. Mr. McKisic retired from Delight Products in Springfield. He also worked at State Stove in Ashland City, was an Orderly for 15 years at Jesse Holman Jones Hospital, and following retirement from Delight Products, he worked at Al’s Foods in White House. Mr. McKisic was a kind hearted man that went out of his way to assist anyone that he saw in need. A service man at heart and was detail oriented in everyway of his life. He loved his family dearly and shared this with all that crossed his path.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wives: Edna Shannon McKisic and Mary Wright McKisic, by his son: James O’Neal “Jimmy” McKisic, Jr., by is grandson: Deitrick Bell, by his siblings: Henry McKisic, Mary Emma McKisic Jordan, Sidney Dilliard McKisic, Jr., Mary Elizabeth McKisic, Daisy Belle McKisic, Paul McKisic, and Charles Holland, and by his step children: Curt Wright, Jr, Bobbi Jean Wright, and Gloria Faye Wright.
Mr. McKisic leaves to cherish his memory his daughters and sons-in-law: Rhonda Rachelle McKisic Bell and Reverend Robert E. Bell of Cross Plains, Reverend Darlene Renay McKisic Gardner and Lonnie Gardner of Mt. Washington, KY, his daughter-in-law: Liz McKisic of Adairville, KY, his grandchildren: Demetria Bell Duncan and husband Lamar, Christopher McKisic, Lonnie Gardner, Jr. and wife Megan, Felicia McKisic, and Jonathon Gardner and wife Amy, by his great grandchildren: Jude, Bryce, and Clarke Gardner, by his step sons: Willie Roy and Larry Wright, by a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
Mr. McKisic’s family wishes to extend a special thanks to neighbors: James Taylor and John Jernigan, to Caris Hospice, to Dr. Gilbert Bazaldua and staff, and to the nursing staff at NHC Healthcare and North Crest Medical Center.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of memorial service.
Obituary for Reverend James Duane Cowan
Reverend James Duane Cowan, age 83 of Greenbrier, TN, died Tuesday August 11, 2020 at his home.
Memorial services were held at 2 pm on Wednesday August 19, 2020 with Rev. John Casey and Rev. Jason Wilkerson officiating. Honorary pallbearers were Tommy Porter, Lynn Porter, Tony Porter, Wayne Stevens, Grover Wade, Sonny Jones, Billy Browning, Jackie Holland, Tom Graef, Barry Johnson, Roy Sayne, Tracey Cowan and Chris Cowan. Inurnment followed in Springfield Memorial Gardens. The family received friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 12 pm until the hour of service at 2 pm.
Rev. Cowan was born June 5, 1937 in Logan Co., KY to the late J.L. and Lois Austin Cowan. His daughter, Linda Cowan and brother, Clark Cowan also preceded him in death. He was a veteran of the United States Army and worked in sales before answering a call to ministry. He was a retired minster with the Tennessee Conference of the United Methodist Church where he pastored at Pleasant Grove UMC, Greenwood UMC and Mt. Lebanon UMC, all in Lawrenceburg, TN and all at the same time, preaching at 9, 10 and 11 while also graduating from Martin Methodist and Emory University. Rev. Cowan then served at Charlotte-Fagan UMC in Charlotte, TN and from there he served Mt. Carmel UMC in Clarksville, TN and then retired from Woodland St. UMC in Springfield. He enjoyed repairing and restoring Volkswagens.
Surviving Duane are his wife of 48 years, Gale Pope Cowan of Greenbrier, TN; daughter, Marsha Cowan of Clarkston, WA; sister, Beatrice Long of Russellville, KY and many nephews and nieces.
If so desired, the family request memorial donations may be made to either Adoration Hospice or Greenbrier UMC. All donations may be sent in care of the Robertson County Funeral Home.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of memorial service.
Obituary for Sandy Hibdon
Morris “Sandy” Adam Hibdon, age 64 of Pleasant View, Tennessee, died Wednesday, August 12, 2020 at Centennial Medical Center in Nashville.
Funeral services were held at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View at 11 o’ clock am on Saturday, August 15th, with Bro. Bob Hamm officiating. Burial followed at 1:00PM in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Nashville with family and friends serving as pallbearers.
The family received friends at the funeral home from 4PM until 8PM on Friday, August 14th, and again on Saturday from 10:00AM until the hour of service at 11:00AM.
Mr. Hibdon was born on November 25, 1955, in Nashville, Tennessee to the late John and Jackie Sutton Jr.. He was employed at Electrolux in Springfield as a Tool and Die maker and was of the Baptist Faith.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, Christopher Hibdon; grandson, Adam Hibdon; brothers, Marty Wilson and Clifford Ray Birdwell; and a sister, Lisa Hibdon.
He is survived by his wife, Loreen Hibdon,; his daughter, Savannah Hibdon; son, Jeremy (Jordon) Dobson; brother, John (Carolyn) Sutton, III; grandchildren, Amiah Howard, Bella Howard, Kaylie Hibdon, Cameron Hibdon, and Makayla, Ashlyn, & Bailey Dobson.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements.
Obituary for Virginia Coleman
Virginia Justice Coleman, 96, passed away peacefully on Aug 12, 2020 at the Main Street Senior Living Facility in Hendersonville, Tennessee.
Virginia was the daughter of James George Justice and Kathleen Moulton Justice of Cedar Hill, Tennessee. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree from Austin Peay State College in Clarksville, Tennessee and earned a Master of Science Degree from Memphis State University. Virginia was a dedicated educator improving the lives of students in several school systems over a 30 year career. She and her husband John Coleman had three children – Terry Coleman, Ruth Ann Bledsoe, and Kathy Hicks. Following John’s death in 1992, Virginia remarried Ken Bell of Southaven, Mississippi, where they lived until he passed away in 2013.
She is survived by two of her children, has seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren. She is survived by her sister, Mary Ruth Hancock of Nashville, Tennessee, and her brother, George “Buddy” Edwin Justice of Cedar Hill, Tennessee.
A graveside service for Virginia was held at 11AM on August 19, 2020, at Springfield Memorial Gardens, Springfield, Tennessee, Garden of the four Gospels.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a tax-deductible contribution in Virginia’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association (Tax ID 13-3039601) by mail at P.O. Box 96011, Washington, D.C. 20090-6011 or by telephone at (800) 272-3900.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.
Obituary for Juanita Metta Adamson
Age 97 of Grenbrier went home to be with the Lord Tuesday, August 11, 2020 at Skyline Medical Center. She was born September 1, 1922 in Kenna, New Mexico to Chad & Emma Wilhoitt Jones. She worked in civil service in Logistics/Base Supply until her retirement. Mrs. Adamson was a member of The Church of the Firstborn.
She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Raymond C. Adams; daughter, Joyce Ann “Woody” Peterson; 5 sisters; 2 brothers. She is survived by her sons, Ray Adamson, Greenbrier, TN and David (Cathy) Adamson, White House, TN; 8 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren.
Funeral service was held Monday, August 17, 2020 at 7pm in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House with Pastor Roger Brewer officiating. Interment followed on Tuesday, August 18, 2020 at 12:30pm in Middle Tennessee Veteran’s Cemetery in Pegram, Tennessee with family and friends serving as pallbearers. Visitation with the family was held Monday, August 17, 2020 5-7pm at the funeral home.
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Sue Anne Evilcizer Harris
Sue Anne Evilcizer Harris, age 80, of Springfield, passed away Tuesday, August 11, 2020 at NorthCrest Medical Center.
A graveside service was held Friday, August 14, 2020 at 1pm in the Springfield Memorial Gardens with Brother Jack Oden officiating. Burial followed with family and friends serving as pallbearers.
Visitation was held at the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield on Friday from 11:30am until 12:30pm.
Mrs. Harris was born March 9, 1940 in Springfield to the late John W. and Mattie Ellis Evilcizer. She was a homemaker and member of the Springfield Church of the Nazarene. She loved flowers, collecting chickens and her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents Mrs. Harris is preceded in death by her sister, Betty Lynn James, her brother, Gary Evilcizer, and her son, John William Evilcizer Harris. Mrs. Harris is survived by her husband, Jerry Harris; son, Brian Harris of Springfield; daughter, Susan Harris of Springfield; brothers, Larry (Patty) Evilcizer and John (Billie) Evilcizer; grandchildren, Rebecca Harris and Layla Harris; and great-grandchild, Addalyn Harris.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.
Obituary for Hazel Y. Jones
Hazel Y. Jones, age 98 of Hendersonville, passed away on Tuesday, August 11, 2020. She had been a resident at The Hearth of Hendersonville since 2014. She was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Lt. Col. (ret.) Marion A. Jones. She is survived by a son, Paul Jones (Patti), a daughter, Pat Brewton (Charles), and her adored grandson, Danny.
“Miss” Hazel was born in Cochran, GA, and lived in numerous places around the world as an Army wife. While her husband served in the Pacific during WWII, she worked for the Air Force at the Pentagon, living in one of the women’s dormitories at the famed Arlington Farms, built to house the many who came to work in D.C. during the war. The buildings were later torn down to build what is now Arlington Cemetery. She was a long-term member of the Eastern Star, serving a term as Worthy Matron. Hobbies over her life included ceramics, crocheting, macramé, sewing, quilting, traveling, but especially bridge. She was a member of several weekly bridge clubs who played what we jokingly called “killer” bridge. Winning the pot might mean 57 cents. Her love of people and whimsical sense of humor never faded, even as dementia became an issue. She was a beautiful Christian lady who will be sorely missed.
She was laid to rest next to her husband in the Masonic Mausoleum at Parkhill Cemetery located in Columbus, GA. Thank you, God, for letting us have her as long as You did.
No services were scheduled locally.
Service entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Hendersonville.
Obituary for Donald Pendleton
Donald Otis Pendleton, age 84, of Springfield, passed away Tuesday, August 11, 2020 at his home.
Funeral services were held Saturday, August 15, 2020 at 12pm in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield with Robert H. Bell officiating. Burial followed in the Springfield Memorial Gardens with Tony Pendleton, Tim Pendleton, Brian Pendleton, Mike Pendleton, Charles Bibee and Dave Woessner serving as pallbearers.
Visitation was held at the funeral home on Friday, August 14, 2020 from 4-8pm and again on Saturday from 10am until the hour of service at 12pm.
Mr. Pendleton was born July 28, 1936 to the late Otis and Roxie Bell Morris Pendleton. To take care of his family he began working at an early age at Carter Shoe Company in Nashville and went on to work at Water Bonnett and Professional Bags, but retired from Acme Boot Company. He never met a stranger and loved to talk. He loved gardening and was so generous he would give you the shirt off his back. Mr. Pendleton was also a member of the Cross Roads Baptist Church.
In addition to his parents Mr. Pendleton is preceded in death by his infant brother William Thomas Pendleton and infant sister, Mary Faye Pendleton, and his brothers, Leonard Austin Pendleton, Roy James Pendleton and Anthony Ray Pendleton. Mr. Pendleton is survived by his brothers, Billy Ralph Pendleton, George Walter Pendleton and Lonnie Harris Pendleton, all of Springfield; sister, Belvy Evergene Peercy of Springfield; and a host of loving nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews who will all miss him very much.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.
Obituary for Vernon Johnson
Vernon Wayne Johnson, age 67, of Cedar Hill, passed away Tuesday, August 11, 2020 at his home.
Funeral services were held Monday, August 17, 2020 at 12pm in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield. Burial followed in the Springfield Memorial Gardens with family and friends serving as pallbearers.
Visitation was held at the funeral home on Monday from 10am until the hour of service at 12pm.
Mr. Johnson was born January 27, 1953 in Texas to the late Vernon H. and Sue Dillard Johnson. He worked as a welder at Unarco and was a Christian.
Mr. Johnson is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Heather and Adam Edward of Adams; and his sister, Suzanne Wesolek of Arab, AL. Mr. Johnson is also survived by a host of loving friends and extended family that will all miss him very much.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.
Obituary for Norma Ruth Townsend
Age 86 of White House went home to be with the Lord Monday, August 10, 2020 at her home. She was born December 21, 1933 in Rogers, Arkansas to Ed & Blanche Birdge Johnson. She worked as a teller for Farmer’s Bank for 12 years before her retirement. She was an artist, taught pottery classes, loved golfing, hiking, backpacking and camping. She also loved driving fast, even taking a class to learn to drive race cars. Norma was saved and received the Holy Ghost in 1963 and had been a member of the Christian Gospel Temple since 1963.
She is preceded in death by her parents; 3 brothers, Bill, Clarence and Russell; 4 sisters, Gladys, Edna, Eva and Bertha. She is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Albert Townsend; son, Greg (Laura) Townsend, both of White House, TN; brother, Junior (Dorothy) Johnson, Cushing, OK; sister, Juanita Green, White House, TN; 3 grandchildren, Bailey, David and Matthew; 5 great-grandchildren, Matthew, Jr., Allie, Addyson, Everett and Bennett.
Funeral service was held Saturday, August 15, 2020 at 1pm in the Christian Gospel Temple with Bro. Steve Farmer and Bro. Rob Massie officiating. Interment followed in Hillcrest Cemetery with family and friends serving as pallbearers. Visitation was held Saturday, August 15, 2020 11am until the time of the service at the church.
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Nichole Ailean Curtis
Nichole Ailean Curtis, age 26, loving daughter, wife, mother and friend, passed away on August 10, 2020 in Hartsville, TN. Nichole was born on March 26, 1994 in Nashville, TN. The daughter of Jim and Crissy Riddle of Springfield, TN. She was married to Perley Curtis, Jr; and has two daughters, Elena Renee and Pheobe Ailean.
Nikki loved music and loved to sing. She was an avid reader and adored her precious girls. Her beautiful smile could light up any room. She was loved by so many. Nikki graduated from Family Christian Academy and attended Volunteer State Community College. She worked at Fire Kleen Restoration with her mother. She attended Cornerstone Nashville where she was saved and baptized.
Nichole is preceded in death by her grandmother, Nancy Ailean Racine. She is survived by her husband, Perley Jr.: daughters, Elena and Pheobe; parents, Jim and Crissy Riddle; grandparents, Tom and Sally Riddle, Dallas and Lucy Racine, and Loretta Courtney Riddle; her in-laws and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Her family received friends on Friday, August 14, from 4:00pm until 8:00pm and again on Saturday, August 15, from 11:00am until her Celebration of Life Service at 1:00pm at Austin and Bell Funeral Home, Hendersonville. Services were conducted by Pastor Kent Riddle. Pallbearers included Brody Kimbro, Jacob Corbitt, Dakota Richard, Tyler Richard, Christian Richard, and Andy Stephens. Interment will follow in Beech Cemetery.
The funeral home asked that anyone attending the visitation to please wear a mask and refrain from any physical contact with the family such as hugs and handshakes. For their safety, all CDC guidelines were followed.
Service entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Hendersonville.
