In Loving Memory: Obituaries July 18-24, 2022
ROBERTSON COUNTY TENNESSEE: (Smokey Barn News)
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Obituary for Betty June Leftrick Shelton
Betty June Leftrick Shelton, 87, of Greenbrier, passed from this life on Sunday July 24, 2022, at her home. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday July 28th at 2:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Brother Jack Martin officiating. Interment will follow in the Mt. Sharon Cemetery with Landry Hampton, Brett Taylor, Billy Hampton, Ben Traughber, Kenneth Cooper, Brandon Resnick, Charles Shelton, Jr., and Danny Casteel serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Zack Reid and Greg Stroud. The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Thursday from 11:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Mrs. Shelton was born March 2, 1935, in Springfield to the late Vernon and Ethel Mae Fuqua Leftrick. She had previously drove a school bus and was a retired restaurant cook. Mrs. Shelton was a member of the KENO Women’s Club and was of the Baptist faith. She loved cooking, was a lover of nature, and loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband: Charles Thomas Shelton, by her daughter: Ethel Evette Taylor, and by her siblings: Alice Harberson, Bessie Mae Patterson, and Vernie Casteel.
Mrs. Shelton is survived by her children: Nancy Casteel and husband Danny of Cross Plains, James Thomas Shelton of Greenbrier, Linda Carson of Greenbrier, Katrina Shelton of Cross Plains, and Charles Richard Shelton and wife Amy of Cross Plains, by her 14 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren.
The family wishes to extend their appreciation to Alive Hospice for the outstanding care given to Mrs. Shelton in her last days. If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to Alive Hospice in Mrs. Shelton’s honor and memory and may be sent c/o Robertson County Funeral Home.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Amy Jo Gainous Todd
Amy Jo Gainous Todd, 61, of Adams, passed from this life on Sunday July 24, 2022, at her home. Graveside services will be conducted Thursday July 28th at 10:00 a.m. in the Bellwood Cemetery in Adams with Pastor Greg Moore officiating. Pallbearers will be Adam Ellithorpe, Sam Cortez, Jason Newberry, Joey Newberry, Austin Mussman, Trey Williams, Horace Newberry, and Thomas Williams. There will be no visitation prior to the graveside service.
Amy was born July 14, 1961, in Springfield, to the late Joe Alvin and Wilmoth Allene Duffer Gainous. She was a graduate of Jo Byrns High School Class of 1979 and went on to attend Austin Peay State University. Amy had served as a candy striper at the former Jesse Holman Jones Hospital, loved the nursing field, and had formerly worked as a billing clerk in the medical field. She was a member of Red River Baptist Church, where she had formally taught Sunday School. Amy enjoyed spending time with her kids and grandkids.
Amy is survived by her children: Ashley Ellithorpe and husband Adam of Clarksville, Kyle Todd and fiancée Chelsea Warpool of Adams, by her step-daughter: Rachel Williams and husband Thomas of Murfreesboro, by her sister: Vickie Gainous Newberry and husband Horace of Cedar Hill, by her brother: Terry Gainous of Adams, by her grandchildren: Eric Lambert, Makenzie Ellithorpe, Ashton Ellithorpe, and Levi Ellithorpe, by her nephews: Jason (Julie) Newberry and Joey (Emily) Newberry, by her niece: Katlynn Gainous, and by her great nieces: Sarah Mussman, Abby Allen and Kennedy Ann Newberry.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Kidney Foundation
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Sandy Crenshaw Pitts
Sandy Crenshaw Pitts, 69, of Adams, passed from this life on Sunday July 24, 2022, at her home. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday July 27th at 4:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Reverend Steve Pendley officiating. The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Wednesday from 2:00 p.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Sandy was born November 5, 1952, in Clarksville to the late Marvin Vester and Martha Ann Cantrell Crenshaw. She retired from Farmers Bank in Springfield and then went on to retire from truck driving. Sandy was of the Methodist faith, and she enjoyed being at home watching her shows on TV. The highlight of her life was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband: Martin Ray Pitts, and by her brother: Daniel Crenshaw.
Sandy is survived by her daughters: Angela Scruggs Dean and Christy Scruggs Holleman both of Adams, by her sons-in-law: Lenny Blow and Shawn Holleman, by her brother: Jeffery Crenshaw of Adams, by her grandchildren: Sterling Silvers, Kayte Dean, Taylor Blow, and Xander Holleman, and by her great grandchildren: Aiden Lindsey, Aubree Lindsey, Autumn Lindsey, and November Singh.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for James Wesley Slayton
James Wesley Slayton, age 56 of Clarksville, passed from this life on Wednesday, July 20, 2022 at his home. His remains are to be cremated and no services are planned at this time.
Mr. Slayton was born December 17, 1965 in Springfield to the late Ewing Wesley and Clara Mae Brinlee Savley. He had worked in the restaurant business He enjoyed watching movies and he loved animals, especially dogs.
He is survived by his sisters, Beverly Mae Smith of Cedar Hill, Mary Brown of Portland, Sandra Tamayo of Springfield, and Wanda Clinard of Adams.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Juanita Holbert
Juanita Holbert, 93, of Greenbrier TN, passed away peacefully at home on July 20, 2022. Born July 25, 1928, in Banner Elk, NC, to Zollie Butner Wooten, she lived most of her life in Johnson City, TN. Juanita was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Holbert; 3 brothers, John, Ray, and Gene; and a sister Joyce.
Juanita worked hard, played hard and loved hard. She didn’t know a stranger, was the life of the party and was adored by everyone who knew her. Juanita loved the outdoors and plants. Of all her jobs, working for the Forestry Service was her favorite. Just days before her passing, she enjoyed her final ride in the country, with the wind blowing her hair and the sunshine on her face.
Juanita was strong in her faith and was greeted at heaven’s gate with a bouquet of red carnations by those loved ones who went before her.
Juanita is survived by her sister Sylvia Shankle, 5 children: Edna (Jim) Barker; Steve (Sue) Barnett; Glenda Barnett-Streicher; Anita (Bill) Shelton; and Jeannie Blakely. She also has 12 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren. She leaves more nieces, nephews, and friends than you can count.
Her wish is for there no be no formal service, but for everyone who loved her to cherish their memory of her in any way they choose. Her remains will be spread in the many places that she loved, Laurel Bloomery, TN; Snowflake, VA; Panama City, FL; and wherever the next cruise ship takes her.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier is in charge of these arrangements. 2619 Hwy 41S, Greenbrier, TN
Obituary for Michael Cook
Michael Cook, passed away on Wednesday July 20, 2022. His remains were cremated, and a Celebration of Life will be held at a future date.
Michael enjoyed drag racing, working on cars, loved animals, and was an avid golf player.
He left behind quite a few family members and friends, who will always remember the beautiful person He was.
Since Mike loved animals, if so desired memorial contributions may be made in his memory online at logansrunrescue.com
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Richard Franklin Austin
Age 72 of Portland passed away Sunday, July 24, 2022 at The Residence of Alive Hospice. He was born January 11, 1950 in Nashville, TN to Gene Edward & Virginia Elizabeth Stack Austin. He worked as an auto detailer before his retirement. He loved listening to country music and he enjoyed all kinds of cars, especially classic cars. He wanted everyone to know how much he loved his children and his family and that he had had a happy life. He felt that his children were the best things that had ever happened in his life.
He is preceded in death by his parents; 2 brothers, Eddie Austin and Jerry “Bubba” Austin. He is survived by his sons, Greg (Julie) Austin, Huntsville, AL and DJ Olmsted, Portland, TN; 3 daughters, Angie (Mike) Roach, Cross Plains, TN, Gina Austin, Portland, TN and Brittany (Cody) Dillman, Murfreesboro, TN; 2 sisters, Tammie Austin, Adams, TN and Sherrie Austin, FL; brother, Bobby (Julie) Wright, Mitchellville, TN; 12 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren.
Graveside service and interment are scheduled for Wednesday, July 27, 2022 at 11am in Cross Plains Cemetery with Greg Austin officiating and with family serving as pallbearers. There is no public visitation scheduled.
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Kenneth Spain
Kenneth Earl Spain, age 88, of Greenbrier, passed away Saturday, July 23, 2022 at his home. Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 30, 2022 at 1pm in the Christ Worship Center in White House with Pastor Steve Malone officiating. Burial will follow in the Spring Hill Cemetery in Nashville with Corey Edmonson, Joel Evrist, Brayden Campbell, Leo Heimer, Robert Hollingsworth, Jon Viele, Adell Plemmons and Dennis Terrell serving as pallbearers.
Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday from 11am until the hour of service at 1pm.
Mr. Spain was born June 24, 1934 in Cedar Grove, TN to the late Jessie Oliver and Mary Holder Spain. He worked as a Pressman in the Printing Industry and was a member of the Christ Worship Center. He was a Veteran of the U.S. Army, serving as a Paratrooper in the Korean War.
In addition to his parents Mr. Spain is preceded in death by his wife, Delores Ann Hollingsworth Spain, his brothers, Willard, Ladiot, Mitchell and Curtis, his sisters, Floye Holland and Bertha Martin, and by his grandsons, Brandon Campbell and Justin Roberts.
Mr. Spain is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Richard and Tina Spain; daughters and sons-in-law, Sherri and Steve Merryman, Paula Campbell and Alan Hall, and Diane and Max Verdugo; sisters, Carolyn Hollingsworth and Ruth Harris; grandchildren, Lauren Evrist, Brittany Edmonson, Chelsey Heimer, Brianna Viele and Brayden Campbell; and great-grandchildren, Zoe, Asher, Abigail, and Benjamin.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier is in charge of these arrangements. 2619 Hwy 41S, Greenbrier, TN
Obituary for Rubye Jean Atkins
Rubye Jean Atkins, age 73, of Ridgetop, TN passed away Saturday, July 23, 2022 at Alive Hospice in Nashville. Funeral services will be conducted at 11am Wednesday, July 27, 2022 in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier. Burial will follow in Springfield Memorial Gardens with Matt Henley, Jimmy Henley, Jeff Henley, Mindy Henley, Tawanna Henley and Brittany Henley serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends from 4-8pm Tuesday, July 26, 2022 and again from 10am until the time of the service at 11am on Wednesday at the funeral home.
Mrs. Atkins was born August 20, 1948 in Nashville, TN to the late Samuel J. and Alice F. Dishman Henley. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, David L. Atkins; 7 brothers and 1 sister.
Mrs. Atkins is survived by 2 brothers, John Henley and Jimmy (Donna) Henley; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier is in charge of these arrangements. 2619 Hwy 41S, Greenbrier, TN
Obituary for Ricky Yates
Ricky Russell Yates, age 67, of Cedar Hill, passed away Wednesday, July 20, 2022 at his home.
Funeral services will be held Monday, July 25, 2022 in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield with Pastor Bruce Cunningham officiating. Burial will follow in the Springfield Memorial Gardens with Jerry Wooden, Jerimiah Norris, Jeremy Miller, Roy Harris, Blake Kimbrough and Dylan Hall serving as pallbearers.
Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Monday from 11am until the hour of service at 1pm.
Mr. Yates was born August 12, 1954 in Springfield to the late Clarence and Willie Bea Sircey Yates. He worked in the Construction Industry, retired from the Maintenance Department at Hollingsworth Oil, and was of the Baptist faith.
In addition to his parents Mr. Yates is preceded in death by his brothers, George, Junior, Jerry and Red, and his sister, Helen.
Mr. Yates is survived by his wife of 22 years, Sandy Burney Yates; sons and daughter-in-law, Justin and Heather Yates and Shawn Yates; daughters, Allyson Yates, Jessica Yates and Lisa Yates; sister, Jean Berry; 10 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St, Springfield, TN
Obituary for Viola Margaret Kelley
Viola Margaret Tate Kelley, 99, of White House, TN went to be with the Lord on July 23rd, 2022. She was born May 15, 1923 to the late William and Sarah Wheeler Tate of Sumner County, TN.
She was a member of Mount Pleasant United Methodist Church and attended Walnut Grove United Methodist Church regularly until the last few years. She was proud of her over 50 years of volunteer service to the American Red Cross. She was also a member of the Robertson County Farm Bureau Women.
She is preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Cecil, Paul and Anderson Tate; and her daughter Debbie K. Henderson and son-in-law Cary Henderson.
She married John William Kelley on November 20, 1942. This year, they would have celebrated 80 wonderful devoted years of marriage.
She is survived by husband, John W. Kelley; son, Phillip (Diane) Kelley of White House, TN; granddaughters, Stacey (Russell) Stoddard of Springfield, TN and Tracey (Brad) Bertram of Glasgow, KY; three great-grandchildren, Elizabeth, Rachel, and Ethan Bertram. She is also survived by sister, Dot Young of Madison, TN and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.
Funeral Service is scheduled for July 26,2022 at 11:30AM in the chapel of Austin and Bell Funeral Home in White House, TN with Brother Larry Pedigo officiating. Interment will follow in Hillcrest Cemetery with John Struyk, Danny Highsmith, Ray Hester, Donnie Hester, Wes Crain and Wesley Pepper serving as pallbearers.
Honorary pallbearers are Donna Wenzel, Norma Sutherland, Carolyn Pepper, Charlene Reid, Jean Morris, her Walnut Grove UMC Sunday School Class, and her Farm Bureau Family.
Visitation is planned for Monday, July 25, 2022, 4-8 PM, and Tuesday, July 26, 2022, 9:30-11:30 AM at the funeral home.
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Dorothy Madison
Dorothy Mae Ramsey Madison, age 87, of Madison, passed away Tuesday, July 19, 2022 at Centennial Medical Center in Nashville.
Funeral services were held Saturday, July 23, 2022 at 2pm at the Goodlettsville Church of the Nazarene with Pastor Phillip Smith officiating. Burial followed in the Springfield Memorial Gardens with Zachary Madison, Cody Madison, Blake McDonald, Grant Cobb, Tommy Cobb and Michael Madison serving as pallbearers.
Visitation was held at the church on Saturday from 12noon until the hour of service at 2pm.
Mrs. Madison was born May 21, 1935 in Marshal, TX to the late John Lewis and MaeBell Vickery Ramsey. She was a homemaker, a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a woman of tremendous faith, was a member of the Goodlettsville Church of the Nazarene, and was one of the best pastors’ wives ever.
In addition to her parents Mrs. Madison is preceded in death by her sister, Johnnie Booth and her brother-in-law, Pierce Booth.
Mrs. Madison is survived by her husband of 65 years, Bobby G. Madison; sons and daughters-in-law, Ron and Carol Madison and Tim and Cindy Madison; grandchildren, Zachary Madison, Cody Madison and Sarah McDonald; and great-grandchildren, Luke McDonald, Barrett McDonald, Peyton Madison, Brayden Madison, Bentley Madison and Jaxson Madison.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier is in charge of these arrangements. 2619 Hwy 41S, Greenbrier, TN
Obituary for Mary Elizabeth Hulsey
Mary Elizabeth Hulsey, age 84, of Greenbrier, TN passed away Saturday, July 16, 2022 at Alive Hospice in Nashville.
Funeral services were conducted at 1pm Wednesday, July 20, 2022 in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier with Pastor Donnie Bryant officiating. Burial followed in the Greenbrier Cemetery with family and friends serving as pallbearers.
The family received friends from 5-8pm Tuesday, July 19, 2022 and again from 11am until the time of the service at 1pm on Wednesday at the funeral home.
Mrs. Hulsey was born April 22, 1938 in Robertson County, TN to the late Charlie and Corrine Graves. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James W. Hulsey; grandson, Jamie Hardison; brother, Billy Graves; and a sister, Jewel Shannon.
Mrs. Hulsey is survived by her daughters, Elizabeth (Stanley) Hardison-Wagner, and Malissa (James) Hardison; grandson, Eric (Billie) Hardison; step-grandchildren, David Gober, Misty Boyd, Celina Reid and Tracey Stracener; great grandchildren, Cole and Caden Hardison.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier is in charge of these arrangements. 2619 Hwy 41S, Greenbrier, TN (615) 643-4000
Obituary for Greta Stainback
Greta Jean Callis Stainback, age 86, of Adams, passed away Friday, July 15, 2022 at her home.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, July 30, 2022 at 2 pm in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield with Rev. Ken Gillespie officiating.
The family will receive friends for visitation from 12pm-2pm until service time on Saturday, July 30th.
Mrs. Stainback was born on March 2, 1936 in Old Hickory, Tennessee to the late Verner (Fran) Callis and the late Frances “Pete” Darke (Kelly) Mantlo. Greta deeply loved her family and was a devoted wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was a member of the Adams United Methodist Church and enjoyed being active in the Adams Women’s Club. In the 1980’s, she was President of the Brandywine Women’s Club in addition to being a wonderful homemaker. Greta also had a love for reading, baking, and celebrating holidays with family and friends. Her love, kindness, friendship, and laughter will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her dearly.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, George “Ed” Stainback; daughter, Pamela Patrice Stainback; brothers, Frank Callis and Bill Mantlo; brother-in-law, Lonnie Whitlow; father-in-law, George Izor Stainback; and mother-in-law, Annie Lou Stainback.
Survivors include her sons, George (Jenny) Stainback and Lee (Michelle) Stainback; grandchildren, Kristen (Ethan) Fields, Michael George Stainback, Anna Grace Stainback, and Jacob Izor Stainback; great-granddaughter, Leighton Jean Fields; brother, Mike (Mary Alice) Callis; sister, Diane Whitlow; brother-in-law, Wayne (Sue) Stainback; sister-in-laws, Brenda Mantlo and Lynn Callis; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Adams Women’s Club at P.O. Box 155, Adams, TN 37010.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St, Springfield, TN
(Updated) Obituaries July 11-17, 2022
Obituary for Patricia Ann “Patsy” Coleman
Patricia Ann “Patsy” Coleman, 84, of Springfield, passed from this life on Sunday July 17, 2022, at her home.
Funeral service was conducted Wednesday July 20th at 10:00 a.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Tim Harris officiating. Interment followed in the Springfield Memorial Gardens with Reverend Michael Smith officiating. Pallbearers were Jason Hendley, Brian Cherry, Dewayne Coleman, Zachary Cilurzo, Jessi Coleman, Ben Coleman, Jameson Beverly, and Maddox Miller. Honorary pallbearers were Cameron Cilurzo and Zack Hendley. The family received friends on Tuesday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. until service time.
Pasty was born August 19, 1937, in Robertson County to the late Nergie Martin and Barbara S. Turns Graves. She was a graduate of Springfield High School Class of 1956, was a member of North Springfield Baptist Church and the Joyful Noise Sunday School class and was a member of the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary. Patsy loved to travel, go camping, go to yard sales, dancing, going to Wal Mart, and collecting Country Music memorabilia. The love of her life was Elvis Presley and she elected herself his lifetime honorary fan club president and made many trips to Graceland in Memphis. Patsy loved her family and spending time with them, and she loved working on her family genealogy.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband: Howard Hawkins “Pete” Coleman, and by her brothers: John W., Bobby R., and Nergie Layne Graves. Pasty is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law: Cecelia and David Moore of Springfield, Donna and Mark Raley of Springfield, by her son: Jeff Coleman of Springfield, by her 12 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild, by her companion: Bob Keck of Springfield, by her nieces: Michelle Richey and Debbie Graves, by her nephew: Michael John Graves, and by her many cousins and friends.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to North Springfield Baptist Church for the Joyful Noise Sunday School class or to Coldstream Christian Camp. All donations can be sent c/o the Robertson County Funeral Home.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for William Anderson “Billy” Leighton, Sr.
William Anderson “Billy” Leighton, Sr., age 84 of Springfield, passed from this life on Saturday, July 16, 2022 at Morningside of Springfield where he had resided for over 6 years.
His remains were cremated and a memorial graveside memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 30, 2022 at 4:00 PM in Greenwood Cemetery in Adairville, KY.
Mr. Billy was born July 4, 1938 in Springfield to the late Charles Anderson and Mary Agnes Ashabraner Leighton. He was a member of Adairville Church of Christ and was retired from Illinois Tool Work in Russellville, KY where he was a maintenance electrician. He was an avid fisherman and outdoorsman. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Charlene McCullah.
He is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law, William Anderson “Andy” and Brooke Leighton, Jr. of Centerville and Jon and Deborah Leighton of Springfield; four grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Alfred Nile Boyter
Alfred Nile Boyter, age 72 of Springfield, passed from this life on Tuesday, July 12, 2022 in Springfield.
Funeral services were conducted Saturday, July 16, 2022 at 1:00 PM in the Oakhurst Chapel of Robertson County Funeral Home with Tim Harris officiating. Private burial was held in Springfield Memorial Gardens with P.J. Johnson, Roger Phelps, Ray Phelps, Alan Johnson, Brock Boyter, and Blake Boyter serving as pallbearers. The family received friends at the funeral home Saturday from 10 AM until the hour of service.
Alfred was born June 1, 1950 in Spartanburg, SC to the late Doc Leonard and Mitty Marie Boyter. He was a member of Springfield 1st Presbyterian Church, a board member of the Robertson County Credit Union, and a member of the Springfield Civitan Club. He was also a past member of the Robertson County School Board where he served for several years. He retired from NorthCrest Medical Center and was presently doing electrical and plumbing work. In his spare time he enjoyed fishing and watching birds.
He is survived by wife, Dale Dean Boyter of Springfield; sons and daughter-in-law, William Brock and Shelley Boyter of Springfield and Andrew Blake Boyter of Orlando, FL; sisters, Kay Jackson of Springfield and Kathy Johnson of Greenbrier; grandchildren, Jestin Pinkelton and Easton Pinkelton; and nieces, P.J. Johnson of Springfield, Amanda Johnson of Greenbrier, and Tiffany Tanner of Savannah, TN.
The family request, if so desired, for memorial contributions to be made to the Open Door Pregnancy Center and may be sent c/o Robertson County Funeral Home.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Sue Earps
Sue Elaine Earps, age 73 of Joelton, Tennessee, died Thursday, July 14, 2022 at her daughter’s home in Cedar Hill.
A graveside service was conducted at Murphy Cemetery in Springfield at 10:00AM on Monday, July 18th, with Marcia Hogan presiding. Burial followed with family and friends serving as pallbearers.
There was no visitation prior to the graveside service.
Ms. Earps was born on August 13, 1948 in Clarksville, Tennessee to the late Tom & Virginia Pardue James. She was a retired Teacher’s Assistant and was very active in the lives of children at Cheatham Park Elementary School in Springfield for 22 years. She was a Christian.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her grandparents, Will & Lola Pardue; and nephew, Jody Cundall.
Survivors include her daughter, Stephanie (Eddie) Sexton; son, Jonathan Earps (Alberto Mendez); grandchildren, Chase and Hope Sexton; great-grandson, Weston Bowen; and niece, Shelly Cundall Essner.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105-9959
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146
Obituary for Patricia Joanne Toland
Patricia Joanne Toland left our world to begin a new journey. She was born and lived most of her life in Peoria, Illinois and later moved between Kentucky and Tennessee. She struggled the last few years with dementia and its terrible wrath, but passed peacefully while resting. We know her faith took her to her heavenly family, where she is loved unconditionally and held in their arms. Peace has finally found her. Our prayer is that she took knowledge from her journey that will make her next a little more peaceful and a lot less burdensome. All her love was left here for us: her first daughter, Cathy R. Willingham (Don), her second daughter, the little middle sister, Stephanie M. Hutter (Tom), and me, the last little sister, Deirdriu J. Coffman (Jeff). Our brother, Charles A. Hewitt previously passed and has been waiting for mom.
Mom’s grandchildren always meant the world to her. Life moved them near and far. Some were close. Some were distant. Some she held tight every chance; some she prayed for every night. No matter where they were, she always loved them. She could not do all she wanted, but always did all she could.
The first line of grandchildren are Kathleen M. McGill (Greg), Cassandra D. Huffine (Chris), Robyn E. Hewitt (Amber), Chuckie A. Hewitt, Michelle Walker, Dena R. Hutter-Fisk, Steven L. Hutter (Dana), Amanda M. Hutter (Brandon), John R. Grimes, IV and Brooklyn (Abi) Coffman.
The great grandchildren brought another chapter to her story. The babies always had her heart. The great grandchildren are Alexandria K. McGill (Luciano), Rachel C. McGill (Tony), Caitlyn N. Ellis, J. Bailey Goldberg, Skylar J. Walker, Breanna M. Vance (Michael), Kaitlyn A. Hewitt, Justin P. Hutter, Laura M. Fisk, Jacob C. Fisk, Leah Chillington, Chelsey Hutter, Britney N. Eaton (Jace), Casey B. Chastain, Nicholas Hewitt, Hannah R. Hewitt, and Mason Hewitt.
It doesn’t stop there. There was one more generation lined up for her love. The great, great grandchildren are Ansleigh J. Thompson, Tatum C. Eaton, Ryder C. Eaton, Elijah K. Eaton, Mason C. Vance, Ryker M. Vance, Owen N. Vance, Sam L. Erwin, Carlie B. DeBoy, and Ian Chillington. There were always more children brought into the family that mom loved with all of her heart. They were just as much hers as anyone else’s – Donnie Willingham, Nate Willingham, Alec B. Johnson, Payton M. Johnson…just to name a few – they were special and always had a place in mom’s heart.
Mom’s sister, Nancee Pennington (Marlan) previously passed but she was survived by siblings Virginia Marriott (Michael), Laura Stutler, and Dick Craig. There are so many family members that will be able to reminisce and share stories of when they knew “Patty.” I hope you all smile and remember her well. There will be a virtual memorial on August 13, 2022 at 1:00 Eastern. If you would like to attend, please email [email protected]. Mom’s ashes will be released in a private burial at sea in the near future, as she requested.
Moms last days were spent at Signature Healthcare of Portland, 215 Highland Circle Drive, Portland, TN 37148. Any donations made in her honor are greatly appreciated by her friends who will live out their days there and the healthcare workers who did their best to keep mom comfortable during her decline and final days.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier is in charge of these arrangements. 2619 Hwy 41S, Greenbrier, TN
Obituary for Michael Thomas Utke
Age 78 of White House passed away Thursday, July 14, 2022 at The Residence of Alive Hospice. He was born November 15, 1943 in San Jose, CA to Harold and Ruth Gannon Utke. He worked as an administrator for Lockheed Martin before his retirement. Mr. Utke proudly served his country in the U.S. Army in Korea. He was of the Catholic faith and a member of Most Holy Trinity Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Shirley Sue Christian Utke; daughter, Melissa Utke; 1 brother; 1 sister. He is survived by daughters, Rebekah (Steven) Morris, White House, TN and Denise Utke, California; 2 sisters, both in OR; 3 grandchildren, Tyler Morris, Makaila Morris and Madison Morris.
A graveside service was Monday, July 18, 2022 at 1pm at Middle Tennessee Veteran’s Cemetery with military honors and with Bro. Bob Snodgrass officiating. There was no public visitation planned.
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Aubrey Browning
Aubrey Matthews Browning, age 89, of Springfield, passed away Wednesday, July 13, 2022 at Alive Hospice Residence in Nashville.
Services were conducted at 3pm Saturday, July 16 in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home, Springfield with Brother Joe Rushing officiating. Burial followed in the Greenbrier Cemetery with Taylor Carr, Preston Carr, Nick Williams, Rob Ham, Brayden Ham and Andrew Carr serving as pallbearers.
The family received friends from 4pm-8pm on Friday and from 1pm to the hour of Service at 3pm on Saturday.
Mr. Browning was born November 27, 1932 in Springfield to the late Jesse and Margaret Winters Browning. He proudly worked for the city of Springfield for 40 years. After his retirement he enjoyed farming, traveling, free spirited with no reservations to the dismay of his family and spending time with his family. He was known for always having a “sweet treat” and a watermelon just in case. He was a member of HillCrest Church of Christ and also served in the US Air Force.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Browning was preceded in death by his wife of 57yrs, Peggy Slate Browning; brothers, Jerry Mac Browning, Billy Browning, Houston Browning, Buddy Browning and Royce Wayne Browning; and sister Barbara Browning Sprouse.
He is survived by daughters, Jennifer Browning Ham (Robert) and JoAnna Browning Carr; 5 grandchildren, Suzanne Carr, Taylor Carr, Preston Carr, Cathryn Carr and Brayden Ham; and sister-in-laws, Patricia Pardue Browning, Shirley Moore Slate and Patsy Slate Nevels; and brother-in-law, Tommy Sprouse.
In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to Alive Hospice or JDRF Diabetes Research Foundation.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St, Springfield, TN
Obituary for Rita Watts
Rita Valerie Watts, age 70, of Old Hickory, Tennessee, passed away Wednesday, July 13, 2022. She retired after nearly 40 years from Cigna Insurance at Metro Center in Nashville and was a member of Heads Freewill Baptist Church. Rita loved watching Titans football and the Nashville Predators.
She preceded in death by her parents, James F. and Alice Mae Watts; a sister, Brenda Arbogast; and a niece, Mechelle Allen and is survived by many nieces and nephews. Special thanks to Alive Hospice staff and nurses for the care and comfort they gave to Rita.
A graveside service was held at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 16th, 2022 at the Everest of Cheatham Cemetery in Pleasant View, Tennessee.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St, Springfield, TN
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