In Loving Memory: Obituaries April 10-16, 2023
ROBERTSON COUNTY TENNESSEE: (Smokey Barn News)
*Refresh this page for updates and newly listed obituaries for this week.
Obituary for Austin Earl Nichols
Austin Earl Nichols, 95, of Springfield, passed from this life on Sunday April 16, 2023, at his home. A private family graveside service will be held in Springfield Memorial Gardens.
Mr. Nichols was born September 9, 1927, in Springfield, to the late Herbert and Lula Ellis Nichols. He was employed as a lab technician at Pet Milk in Springfield for many years, and then retired from sales at the Robertson County Co-Op. Mr. Nichols was a member of Central Christian Church in Springfield, but also attended Springfield Baptist Church with his wife. He enjoyed gardening and sharing his vegetables with friends and neighbors. Mr. Nichols was noted for his good turnip greens. He enjoyed traveling, ball room dancing, and visiting with his daughters in Knoxville and Charleston, S.C.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife: Shirley Weaver Nichols, brothers: Russell, Dorris, and Ellis Nichols, and by his sisters: Larena Nichols Fuqua and Virginia Nichols White. Mr. Nichols is survived by his wife of 36 years: Elizabeth Brantley Walton Nichols of Springfield, by his daughters and sons-in-law: Debby and Ed New of Charleston, SC, Melissa and Michael Milton of Knoxville, by his grandchildren: Nichols (Megan) Bender, Manning (John) Borden, McCabe Milton, Mary Claire Milton (Brian) Smith, and by his great grandchildren: Caleb Christopher Bender, Margaret Frances Borden, and John McArthur Borden.
Mr. Nichols’ family wishes to thank his caregivers, Rosemary Graves, Fay Bagwell, and Sandy Ellis, for the wonderful care each of them provided to him.
Earl’s love of his vegetable garden and sharing with others brought him much joy. The family finds it fitting to ask that memorials be made to The Fountain c/o Southside Drug Company (Drew Sloan & Ian Bradley). These memorials will help them continue to work with local farmers and growers to support the community. All donations can be sent c/o Robertson County Funeral Home.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Nancy Louise Rogers
Nancy Louise Rogers, age 93 of Adairville, KY, passed from this life on Saturday, April 15, 2023 at Hearthstone Place in Elkton, KY. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday, April 20, 2023 at 1:00 PM at Adairville United Methodist Church with Bro. Clay Burchett officiating. Burial will follow in Sulphur Spring Baptist Church Cemetery in Franklin, KY with Phillip Stratton, Kevin Stratton, Josh Manuel, Hunter Stratton, Adam Hallman, and Hunter Hallman serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Thursday at the church from 10 AM until the hour of service.
Mrs. Nancy was born October 22, 1929 in Adairville to the late William Soloman and Lillie Belle Poole McGee. She was a member of Adairville United Methodist Church. She loved going to church services, crocheting, and fishing. She was proud of her family and was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and great-great grandmother. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, William Chester Rogers, and 5 brothers and sisters.
Surviving her are her daughters and son-in-law, Betty Sue Meadows and Lee Ann and Bill Steen, all of Adairville, KY; sister, Margaret Sears of Indianapolis, IN; grandchildren, Donna Tanner, Terry Stratton, Tommy Stratton, Roger Steen, and Sarah Steen; 10 great grandchildren; and 5 great-great grandchildren.
The family request, if so desired, for memorial contributions to be made to Adairville United Methodist Church. All donations can be sent c/o Robertson County Funeral Home.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Martha Howell Searcy
Martha Howell Searcy, age 70, of Springfield, Tennessee, died Friday April 14, 2023, at Tristar North Crest. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday April 19, 2023, at 1 pm in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Pastor Jimmy Rawls officiating. Burial will follow in Owens Chapel Cemetery with Robert Waynick, Stephen Searcy, Rodney Carrow, Darian Johnson, Brad Woody and Randall Wright serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 4 pm until 8 pm and again on Wednesday from 10 am until the hour of service at 1 pm.
Martha was born January 17, 1953, in Springfield, TN to the late Glenn Howell and Katherine Cook Apple. Her husband, Stephen Joe Searcy and her brothers, Billy L. and John Howell also preceded her in death. She worked for Acme Boot but was also a farmer and a homemaker. Martha was a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She loved family gatherings. Gardening, birds, fishing and collecting snow globes were her hobbies.
Surviving her are her sons and daughters-in-law, Robert Waynick and Jennifer of Springfield, Stephen Searcy and Kalie of Coopertown, TN, daughters and sons-in-law, Jennifer Wright and Randall of Cross Plains, TN, Melissa Woody and Brad of Springfield, sisters, Mary Parks of Springfield, Mary Blaustein of Nashville, TN, Linda Faye of Commercial Point, OH, Brenda Lee McAfee of Franklin, TN, sister-in-law, Linda Howell of Springfield, eight grandchildren, one great grandchild with one on the way.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Dorothy “Dot” Hale Swezea
Dorothy Hale Swezea “Dot”, age 76 passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 15, 2023 from a three year battle with MDS. She was born on October 13, 1946 to Thomas Hale and Jennie Moris Hale.
She was preceded in death by her father, Thomas Hale and Daughter, Angela Swezea Jones. She is survived by her mother, Jennie Hale, brother, Ronnie (Linda) Hale, Niece, Lisa (Richie) Heyn.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 from 9am-11am with service following at 11am, with Ray Bigs officiating. Interment will follow in White House Memorial Gardens with family and friends serving as pallbearers. The family would like to thank the White House Health Care nurses and staff for her excellent care, along with Adoration Hospice for their kindness and care. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Pleasant Valley Baptist Church.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home Arrangements entrusted to 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Norma Lee Blevins
Norma Lee Blevins, age 79, of Springfield, passed away Saturday, April 15, 2023 at her home. Mrs. Blevins’ wishes were to be cremated and there are no services scheduled at this time.
Mrs. Blevins was born November 15, 1943 in Harlon County, KY to the late Bill and Eva Burton. She was a factory worker for many years and loved her family dearly.
In addition to her parents, Mrs. Blevins was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Blevins; daughter, Tammy Fidone; and 11 brothers and sisters.
She is survived by a daughter, Donna Dehmlow; sons, Danny (Kim) Blevins, and David Blevins; 5 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St., Springfield, TN
Obituary for Amelia Stevens
Amelia Stevens, age 87 of Greenbrier, passed from this life on April 13, 2023 at The Residence at Alive Hospice in Nashville.
Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at 2:00 PM in the Oakhurst Chapel of Robertson County Funeral Home with Bro. Richard Mougin officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. Zion Cemetery with Ryan Griffin, Steven Griffin, Henry Griffin, Jeremy Pratt, Evan Curry, Erin Curry, and Dale Atnip serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 12 noon until the hour of service.
Mrs. Stevens was born February 10, 1936 in Chattanooga to the late W.E. and Geraldine Cummings Keels. She was a member of Mt. Zion United Methodist Church where she was the choir director and pianist. She was retired from the State of Tennessee where she was the Administrative Secretary for the Health Board. She was a loving mother and grandmother. She enjoyed music and socializing with her friends.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William H. “Bill” Stevens; a daughter, Amelia Lynette Stevens; and a sister, Nola Rogers.
Surviving Mrs. Amelia are her son, Gerry Stevens (Lenna Woods) of Nashville; daughters, Sara (Jim) Griffin of Mt. Juliet, Lynda Curry of Mt. Juliet, and Lola (Mark) Pratt of Foley, AL; brother, William Elliott (Lori) Keels, Jr. of Walker, LA; sister, Sue (Jack) Shoemake of Inglewood, FL; 8 grandchildren; and 3 great grandchildren.
The family request, if so desired, for memorial contributions to be made to Mt. Zion UMC. All donations can be sent c/o Robertson County Funeral Home.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Laura Jo Keeler
Laura Jo Keeler passed into the arms of Jesus one hour and thirty-seven minutes after she was born on Saturday, April 15, 2023 at Centennial Women’s Hospital.
She is survived by her paternal grandparents, Alex & Carrissa Keeler; maternal grandparents, Tim & Valentine Shiverdeck; parents, Blake & Alexis Keeler, White House, TN; sister, Emryn Keeler; 3 uncles.
Laura Jo is being cremated and a balloon release in her memory is being planned at a later date.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home Arrangements entrusted to 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Michael Ray Goodcourage
Age 68 of White House went home to be with the Lord Saturday, April 15, 2023 at Skyline Medical Center. He was born December 28, 1954 in Winchester, TN to Hubert “Mickey” Grant & Elizabeth McNatt Goodcourage. He worked as a mechanical engineer for Wright Industries until his retirement. Mr. Goodcourage was a member of Cross Plains Church of Christ, where he served as an elder. He enjoyed fishing, Revolutionary War History, Benjamin Franklin and all things pertaining to Philadelphia. He was known to all who knew him as a man who loved God. Serving his church and his Lord were of the uttmost importance to him.
He is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Beth Goodcourage; son, Seth (Rebecca Gourley) Goodcourage, both of White House, TN; sister, Judy (Mike) Bushey, Huntsville, AL; grandson, Parker Bolt.
Funeral service is scheduled for Thursday, April 20, 2023 at 11am in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House with Bro. Sellers Crain officiating. Interment will follow in White House Memorial Gardens with family and friends serving as pallbearers. Visitation with the family is planned for Wednesday, April 19, 2023 4-8pm and Thursday, April 20, 2023 9-11am at the funeral home.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home Arrangements entrusted to 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Vickie Lynn Tackett
Vickie Lynn Reynolds Tackett, age 69, of Greenbrier, TN, formerly of Fincastle, VA, passed away Friday, April 14, 2023 at the NorthCrest Medical Center in Springfield, TN.
Mrs. Tackett was born March 3, 1954 in Roanoke, VA to the late John Aubry Reynolds and Esther Davidson Reynolds Taylor. She was an Administrative Assistant for the U.S. Government (IRS), a military spouse for 27 years, and a member of the First United Methodist Church of Springfield. She spent many years in service at her churches singing in the choir, helping with youth groups, children’s churches, Sunday Schools, and youth choirs.
In addition to her parents Mrs. Tackett was preceded in death by a brother, Kevin Reynolds.
She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Donald Clifton Tackett Sr.; son, Donald Clifton (Tina) Tackett Jr.; daughters, Angela (Thomas) Overstreet, and Patricia Laffredo; 5 grandchildren, Abigail Overstreet, Caleb Overstreet, John Overstreet, Audric Laffredo, and Blythe Lommer; brother, J.W. (Vicky) Reynolds; sisters, Donna (Dennis) Higdon, and Debbie Jacobs; several brothers and sisters-in-law, and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 5-8pm Thursday, April 20th and again from 11am-12pm Friday, April 21st at the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield.
Funeral services will be conducted at 12pm Friday, in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Jason Jones officiating. Burial will follow in Springfield Memorial Gardens with Donald Clifton Tackett Jr., Thomas Overstreet, Eric Lawhorn, Brian Lawhorn, John Overstreet, Caleb Overstreet, Audric Laffredo, and Blythe Lommer serving as pallbearers.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St., Springfield, TN
Obituary for James David Hale Jr
James David Hale, Jr., passed away unexpectedly on April 14, 2023 at home. He was only 40 years old. The family is devastated and deeply saddened by his sudden death. We are heartbroken to lose someone so special. He was a wonderful man who will be deeply missed. Jimmy was born on March 2, 1983, in Nashville, TN to James and Sandra Hale.
Jimmy is survived by his mother Sandra Hale and sister Kimberly Snyder, and Fiancée Deidra Garrett. He leaves behind his daughter Rylee Hale, and nieces Kelsey Snyder, Kennedy Snyder, and Kaydence Snyder, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He is predeceased by his father James David Hale, Sr, grandparents, aunts, and uncles.
Jimmy graduated from White House High School, in White House, TN in 2001 and over the course of his life he worked in various areas of construction that included building, carpentry, roofing and landscaping. Jimmy was aspiring to get his CDL and start his own trucking company.
Jimmy was so much more than his struggles. Jimmy’s antics were legendary and those who knew him have their own stories to tell. He said what he meant and meant what he said. Although known as “Tough Guy” to many, there was another side to him. Jimmy had a huge heart, and compassion. He would help anyone in need, give the shirt off his back, and was good on the inside & out. He cared so deeply for the people around him. He was loving, funny, and stubborn. He made an impact on so many lives. He will be forever missed.
He loved fiercely and deeply, and we take comfort in knowing that Jimmy is now at peace surrounded by light.
Visitation will be held at Austin & Bell Funeral Home, 533 Highway 76, White House, TN 37188 on Thursday, April 20, 2023, from 2pm to 6pm with service beginning at 6pm.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home Arrangements entrusted to 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Loyd Landon McMurtry
Age 83 of Goodlettsville passed away Friday, April 14, 2023 at The Residence of Alive Hospice. He was born May 24, 1939 in Sumner County, TN to Archie & Laura Jane Allen McMurtry. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during Vietnam. Mr. McMurtry was the owner and operator of Loyd’s Car Center before his retirement. He enjoyed car racing, NASCAR, fishing and spending time with his family.
He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mary Frances McMurtry; 3 brothers, Frank, Leon and Freddie McMurtry; 2 sisters, Waynnie Belcher and Mary Alice Allen; daughter-in-law, Angel McMurtry. He is survived by his son, Wayne McMurtry, Cottontown, TN; grandson, Brad (Marie) McMurtry, Greenbrier, TN; 3 great-grandchildren, Elliana, Landon and Harper; sister, Dara Lanning, Goodlettsville, TN.
A Celebration of Life memorial service is scheduled for Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at 6pm in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House with Bro. Harold Young officiating. Visitation with the family is planned for Tuesday, April 18, 2023 2-6pm at the funeral home. Committal service and burial is scheduled for Friday, April 28, 2023 at 1pm at Middle Tennessee Veteran’s Cemetery with military honors.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home Arrangements entrusted to 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Dannie M. Ragsdale
Dannie M. Ragsdale, age 65, of Portland, passed away Thursday, April 13, 2023 at his home.
Graveside services will be conducted at 2pm Wednesday, April 19th in Springfield Memorial Gardens with Bro. Randy Riggs officiating and family and friends serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends from 4-8pm Tuesday, April 18th at the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield.
Mr. Ragsdale was born June 1, 1957 in Loma Linda, CA to the late Dannie and Dorothy Ragsdale. He was an engineer in the automotive industry for many years and was a member of Seventh Day Adventist Church, Madison Campus.
In addition to his parents, Dannie was preceded in death by a brother, Ryan Ragsdale.
He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Toni Ragsdale; sons, Chris Ragsdale, and Ron (Erica) Ragsdale; daughter, Angela Ragsdale (Nathan); 6 grandchildren; brother, Frank Ragsdale; and a sister, Valerie (Jason) Fanning.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St., Springfield, TN
Obituary for Mary Katherine “Cricket” Parker
Mary Katherine “Cricket” Parker age 88 of Greenbrier passed away Thursday, April 13, 2023 at her residence.
Funeral Services will be held on Monday, April 17th at 1pm in the Chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home Greenbrier with Bro. Nathan Washburn officiating. Burial will follow in Springfield Memorial Gardens with David Morgan, Dalton Morgan, Aiden Morgan, Maxie Deaton, Marshall Drake, Caleb Roberts and Billy Ford serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Monday, April 17th from 10am until time of service at 1pm.
She was born in Coopertown, TN on May 5, 1934 to the late William Herschel and Mary Leota Ellis Ford. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Herbert Duane Parker; brothers, Raybon Ford, Charles B. Ford and sister, Yvonne Drake.
She was a Deputy Registrar with the Robertson County Election Commission and a member of Greenbrier First Baptist Church. She also served as Secretary at Greenbrier First Baptist and loved her family especially her grandkid and great-grandkids and her flowers.
She is survived by her daughter, Pam (David) Morgan of Greenbrier; grandson, Dalton (Amanda) Morgan of Greenbrier; great-grandchildren, Logan, Emma, Aiden and Emery; brother, George Richard (Shirley) Ford of Greenbrier and sister, Betty Faye (Max) Deaton of Spartanburg, South Carolina.
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home Greenbrier 2619 Hwy 41 S Greenbrier, TN 37073
Obituary for Jana Broadrick Powell
Age 55 of White House passed away unexpectedly Thursday, April 13, 2023 at Skyline Medical Center. She was born April 18, 1967 in Springfield, TN to Dale Broadrick & Martha Baggett, She worked as a Realtor for Cope Realty. Jana loved eating Mexican food, spending time at the beach, wearing flip flops and high heels wearing BLING and anything that sparkled and spending time with her family and friends. She is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Jewel and Joe Baggett; paternal grandparents, Hubert and Rebecca Broadrick.
She is survived by her loving husband, Scott Powell, White House, TN; daughters, Brandy Marlin, Los Angeles, CA, Chelsey (Corey) Richard, Ringgold, GA, Briana (Andrew) Crague, Portland, TN and Samantha (Derek) Clinton, Osawatomie, KS; father, Dale (Cheryl) Broadrick, White House, TN; mother, Martha Benton, Springfield, TN; brother, Tyler (Carla) Broadrick, Springfield, TN; grandchildren, London Marlin and Stevie Clinton; special friend, Wayne Falls, Joelton, TN.
Funeral service is scheduled for 1pm Monday, April 17, 2023 in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House with Bro. Wayne Smithson officiating. A Private Family Interment will follow in White House Memorial Gardens with Tyler Broadrick, Buster Broadrick, Jonathan Broadrick, Rickey Crague, Andrew Crague and Angel Coffin serving as pallbearers. Visitation with the family is scheduled for Sunday, April 16, 2023 3-8pm and Monday, April 17, 2023 11am-1pm at the funeral home.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home Arrangements entrusted to 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Laura Pauline Taber Fallen
Laura Pauline Taber Fallen, age 55, of Greenbrier, TN, passed away Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at the Skyline Medical Center in Nashville, surrounded by her husband and family.
Graveside services will be conducted at 3pm Monday, April 17th in the Greenbrier Cemetery with Bro. Randy Riggs officiating.
The family will receive friends from 1 – 3pm Monday at the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier.
Laura was born February 28, 1968 in Jasper, Indiana, to Robert Joseph Taber and Mary Ann (Vogler) Taber. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from William & Mary College in Williamsburg, Virginia in 1990 where she studied English and History. Laura pursued a career in publishing where she worked for Harper Collins in Chicago, Illinois. Laura’s passions included her family, baking, her dogs, and music, with a long time love of the music of Duran Duran.
Laura is survived by her husband, James; her mother, Mary Ann; her sisters, Lynn and Joyce; long time caregiver, Wendi Griffin; and close friends who will miss her intelligence, kind heart, and passion for life. And, of course, her dog Poppy.
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home Greenbrier 2619 Hwy 41 S Greenbrier, TN 37073
Obituary for William Everett “Bill” Snyder
William Everett “Bill” Snyder, age 87, of Springfield, passed away Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at his home.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11am Wednesday, April 19, 2023 in the Austin & Bell Funeral Home chapel in Springfield with Bro. Randy Harmon officiating. Military Graveside services will follow at 1pm Wednesday in the Kentucky Veterans Cemetery West in Hopkinsville, KY with Kevin Alexander, Richard Head, Charles Head, and Mike Blackburn serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends from 9-11am Wednesday at the funeral home.
Mr. Snyder was born June, 28, 1935 in Chadron, NE to the late Earl Wesley and Dorothy Doris Luke Snyder. He worked on farms and joined the U.S. Army at the age of 18. While in the Army he got to travel, lived in Germany and Hawaii, and visited Hong Kong. Bill flew Chinooks in 2 tours in Vietnam, and was one of the first Air Cabs in Vietnam. He retired as a Major from the military after 20 years of service. Mr. Snyder worked over 21 years for the Federal Civil Service at Fort Campbell as an Engineer and retired from there in 1995. Bill was a man of few words, but never wanted to let anyone down, and was always an encourager. He enjoyed spending time with his family, watching westerns and Judge Judy, sitting outside with his beloved lab Blackie, eating out, especially Cracker Barrel, and being a role model (Papaw) and buddy to Ashlea, and always being the first on the street to have an immaculate mowed yard each week. Bill will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and friend. He was a devoted Christian and member of Rock Springs Baptist Church in Greenbrier.
In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Clara Mae Binkley Snyder; infant son, Lee Randal Snyder; son, Marshall W. Snyder; sister, Marjorie Mansfield; brothers, Earl Snyder Jr., Wesley Snyder, Marcus Snyder, and Frank Snyder; son-in-law, Donald Wheeler; and his beloved lab Blackie.
He is survived by his 3 daughters, Julie Wheeler, Vicki (Kevin) Alexander, and Bonnie (Richard) Head; 2 grandchildren, Erin (John) Massarello, and Ashlea Head; 2 great grandchildren, John Andrew Massarello, and Caroline Rose Massarello; and a sister, Goldie Sommerville.
In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial donations be made to Rock Springs Baptist Church, 2155 Rock Springs Road, Greenbrier, TN 37073 www.rsbaptist.org , Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516 www.support.woundedwarriorproject.org or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 www.stjude.org
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St., Springfield, TN
Obituary for Linda “Gayle” Herod
Age 76 of Cottontown passed away Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at her home. She was born September 25, 1946 in Gallatin, TN to Thomas H. “Pete” & Fannie Bell Wade Vantrease. She, along with her husband Rick, owned and managed the Piggly Wiggly grocery store in White House for many years. Gayle enjoyed cooking. She used it as her ministry to others when there would be sickness or death to take meals to others. She enjoyed horse racing, visiting Dueling Grounds and playing the lottery for fun.
She is preceded in death by her parents; 2 sisters, Judy Burris and Brenda Vantrease; brother, Tommy Vantrease. She is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Richard “Rick” Herod, Cottontown, TN; daughters, Wendy (Steve) Morris, Cottontown, TN and Elizabeth (Jeff) Porter, White House, TN; 4 grandchildren, Haley (Brad) Edwards, Zach (Savannah) Morris, Lacey (Ryan) Weaver and Seth Morris; 7 great-grandchildren, Easton Edwards, Emmett Edwards, Royce Morris, EllieCate Edwards, Raynen Morris, Elise Edwards and Cooper Weaver; special nephew, Chip (Amy) Vantrease.
Funeral service was held Thursday, April 13, 2023 at 1pm in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House with Bro. Zach Morris officiating. Interment followrf in White House Memorial Gardens with Randy Burris, Chad Burris, Zach Morris, Seth Morris, Brad Edwards and Ryan Weaver serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers were Dane Hall and Cliff Presley. Visitation with the family was Wednesday, April 12, 2023 4pm-8pm and Thursday, April 13, 2023 11am until the hour of the service at the funeral home.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St., Springfield, TN
(Updated) Obituaries April 3-9, 2023
Obituary for David Ray Walden
David Ray Walden, 68, of Springfield, passed away on Sunday April 9, 2023, at his home.
His remains were cremated and a Celebration of Life will be held at a future date.
David was born November 9, 1954, in Nashville, to the late Wade McDonald and Sophie Christine Moran Walden. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served during Vietnam, and he worked as a steel fabricator. David enjoyed fishing, coin collecting, NASCAR, and watching football, especially the TN Titans. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister: Beverly Kay Cundiff.
David is survived by his daughter and son-in-law: Tami and Joshua Crowder of Springfield, by his son and daughter-in-law: Bryan and Chrissy Walden of Springfield, by his brother: Bruce Walden of Portland, by his sister: Donna Rossi of Woodbury, by his grandchildren: Tyler Smith, Emily Quinn, Natalie Hinkle, Bryan Walden, Jr., and Carsyn Henderson, and by his four great grandchildren.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Tommy Neal Ayers
Tommy Neal Ayers, age 73, of Greenbrier, passed away Sunday, April 9, 2023 at his home. Mr.
Ayers’ wishes were to be cremated and there are no services scheduled, but the family did receive friends from 11am until 7pm Wednesday, April 12th, at the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield.
Mr. Ayers was born February 21, 1950, in Springfield, to the late Thomas Floyd and Mable Leota James Ayers. He was a farmer most of his life.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Ayers was preceded in death by a son, J.T. Ayers; and a brother, Russell Ayers.
He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Darlene Ayers; sons, Michael Williams, Daniel (Angela) Williams, and Billy Williams; daughters, Angela (Bob) Murphy, and Angela Woodrum; 12 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren; and a sister, Helon Owens.
In lieu of flowers, the family request that memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or by visiting https://donate.cancer.org
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St., Springfield, TN
Obituary for William Henry “Willie” Wilson
William Henry “Willie” Wilson, 73, of Greenbrier, passed away on Friday April 7, 2023, at his home.
Funeral services were conducted Tuesday April 11th at 11:00 a.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Jarrod Wilkerson and Tim Harris officiating. Interment followed in Springfield Memorial Gardens with Chris Cassidy, Tim Cassidy, John Cassidy, Mike Haley, Henry Haley, and Jarrod Wilkerson serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearer was John Holland Cassidy, Sr. The family received friends on Monday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Willie was born March 12, 1950, in Guthrie, KY, to the late Angis Marvin and Cozetta Mae Smock Wilson. He was a retired painter with Peterbilt and was a member of the Harley Motorcycle Riding Club. Willie enjoyed fishing, shooting guns, being outdoors, and riding his Harley motorcycle. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife: Judy Carol Haley Wilson, by his sister: Anna Mae Cassidy, and by his brother: Benny Wilson.
Willie is survived by his daughter: Carolyn Wilson Rust of Springfield, by his grandchildren: Zoey and Kyra Rust, by his brother: Angis Morris Wilson of Springfield, and by his nephews: Christopher William Cassidy of Goodlettsville, Timothy Scott Cassidy of Springfield, and John Holland Cassidy, Jr., of White House.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Timothy Wayne “Tim” Hutcherson
Timothy Wayne “Tim” Hutcherson, 56, of Greenbrier, died Wednesday April 5, 2023.
Memorial services were conducted Tuesday April 11th at 2:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Tim Harris officiating. The family received friends on Tuesday from 1:00 p.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Tim was born December 3, 1966, in Springfield. He attended Springfield High School and was an excellent baseball player. Tim loved fishing, playing baseball, and watching both baseball and football and always loved the Cincinnati Red’s and the Dallas Cowboys. He was of the Pentecostal faith.
Tim is survived by his parents: Patrick Edward “Pat” and Mary Jo Duke Hutcherson of Greenbrier, by his brothers and sister-in-law: Michael Christopher Hutcherson of Dickson, Derrick and Samantha Hutcherson of Carthage, by his 8 nieces and nephews, and by his 7 great nieces and nephews.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Marjorie Ruth Jackson
Marjorie Ruth Jackson, age 82 of Goodlettsville, passed from this life on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at her home.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Goodlettsville Church of Christ at a later date.
Mrs. Jackson was born September 26, 1940 in Springfield to the late Joe E. and Mary Lynn Gezely Adams. She was a member of Goodlettsville Church of Christ and was a retired LPN. She enjoyed spending time with her family, reading, and traveling. She also enjoyed watching sports of all kind, but especially Vanderbilt football. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Jackie Lee Kirkham, and brothers, Joe Howard, Billy, and Edward Adams.
She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Laura Ann and Kevin Jones of Greenbrier and Jennifer Sue and Jeff Nichols of Goodlettsville; son, Lloyd William Kirkham, Jr. of Springfield; sisters and brother-in-law, Judy Crain of Carthage, Pat and Carl Dorris of Greenbrier, and Mary Jo Lickliter of Knoxville; six grandchildren; and 8 great grandchildren.
The family request, if so desired, for memorial contributions to be made to the American Cancer Society.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Ronald Dale “Ronnie” Dean, 73
Ronald Dale “Ronnie” Dean, 73, of Portland, passed away on Monday April 3, 2023, at his home.
Funeral services were conducted Wednesday April 5th at 2:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Brother Tony Willis officiating. Interment followed in Springfield Memorial Gardens with Kenny Leftrick, Sconie Leftrick, Donnie Wallace, Jeff Dean, Luke Conyer, Tommy Conyer, and Jody Morrison serving as pallbearers. The family received friends on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Ronnie was born February 14, 1950, in Springfield, to the late L.C. and Goldie Eden Dean. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served during Vietnam. Ronnie worked as a small engine repair mechanic. He was a member of Chestnut Grove Baptist Church in Portland, where he served as a deacon. Ronnie enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing horseshoes, trading knives, shooting guns, and working on lawnmowers.
Ronnie is survived by his wife: Charlene Raymer Dean of Portland, by his son and daughter-in-law: Billy and Amanda Dean of Greenbrier, by his daughters and son-in-law: Brandy and Ryan Clayton of Portland and April Dean of Nashville, by her sister and brother-in-law: Cindy and Kevin Rigby of Daytona, FL, by his grandchildren: Karlee Clayton, Caleb Jackson, Dusty Dean, Bailee Dean, Cassidy Hornsby, and Makenzie Dean, and by his great grandchildren: Brylee Dean, Riley Hornsby, and Leo McQueeney.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Marilyn Elaine Holland
Marilyn Elaine Hollingsworth Holland was taken home to the Lord on Monday, April 3rd, 2023, after a brief battle with lung cancer.
A Memorial Service was conducted at 1pm Saturday, April 8th in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield with Rev. Steve Van Hooser, Pastor of McKendree United Methodist Church in Portland, TN, officiating.
The family received friends from 11:30am until time of the service at 1pm Saturday at the funeral home.
She was born in Springfield, TN, on November 17, 1945 to the late Forrest and Margaret Hollingsworth. She graduated from Springfield High School and married Don Smith with whom she was blessed to have two loving daughters, Scottie Smith (Jeff Wilemon), of St. Petersburg, FL and Shelley Smith Bullock (Scott), of Nolensville, TN. During her career, she worked in many areas including sales, purchasing and management in the music industry, various retail, and commercial industrial companies. These positions took her from Tennessee to Texas, Georgia, and Alabama. She was fortunate enough to return to her beloved Tennessee. Marilyn loved crafting of all sorts, was an avid reader, and enjoyed SEC football, particularly her beloved Tennessee Vols, the Auburn Tigers, and the Alabama Crimson Tide. She loved watching the Tennessee Titans and the Predators. After returning to Tennessee, she reconnected with a high school classmate, Forrest Holland, and shared twelve wonderful years together. She and Forrest were faithful members of McKendree United Methodist Church in Portland, TN and loved their church family.
In addition to her parents, Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Forrest, and survived by her two daughters who will miss her every day. She is also survived by her three grandchildren, whom she adored and considered her crowning glory, Halie Elaine Bullock, Hunter Everett Bullock, and Lainey Wilemon. She is also survived by her sister, Diane Hollingsworth Keane (William) and her brother, Jack Hollingsworth.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Alive Hospice, 1718 Patterson Street, Nashville, TN 37203 or by visiting https://www.alivehospice.org/get-involved/give/ or to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or by visiting https://donate.cancer.org/
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St., Springfield, TN
Submit an obituary:
Publishing an obituary on Smokey Barn News is inexpensive and easy. A single obituary up to 375 words & photo is only $59. All veterans, EMS, Firefighters, and Police are always FREE of charge.
To submit your obituary, email to: [email protected]
To See The Latest Stories or to share this article, scroll below
