In Loving Memory: Obituaries June 27-July 3, 2022
ROBERTSON COUNTY TENNESSEE: (Smokey Barn News)
*Refresh this page for updates and newly listed obituaries for this week.
Obituary for Margaret Clinard Hale
Margaret Clinard Hale of Greenbrier passed from this life at age 91 on Friday, July 1, 2022, at her home. Services will be conducted Friday, July 8, 2022, at Greenbrier First Baptist Church with Pastor John Briggs officiating. Visitation will be at Greenbrier First Baptist Church in Greenbrier on Thursday evening from 5 to 8 pm and Friday from 12 to 2 pm. The funeral service will begin at 2:00 pm Friday, with interment immediately following at Memorial Gardens in Springfield. Jim Hale, Ryan Hale, Steven Dorrell, Brandon Frank, John Wentz and Clay Jones will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Walter Ray Clinard, Aaron Shelton and Terry Elmore.
Mrs. Hale was born October 26, 1930, to the late Lloyd Clinard and the late Bethel Clinard (Ramsey). In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charles E. Hale, Sr.; daughter, Malinda Margaret Coulter; son, Charles E. Hale, Jr.; brother, James Robert Clinard; stepmother, Wilmoth Clinard; and grandsons, James M. Hale, Jr. and Randall Lee Wentz, Jr. She is survived by her children, Gwen (Randy) Wentz of Greenbrier, James (Donna) Hale, Sr. of Chesterfield, Va. and her brother, Walter Ray Clinard of Adairville, Ky. She is also survived by 9 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 15 nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Hale was a member of Greenbrier First Baptist Church in Greenbrier. While a member of her church, she served her Lord as a member of the choir, numerous committees and devoting herself serving as a Deacon’s wife for many years. She owned and operated The Petal Peddler, a florist shop in the town of Greenbrier, for many years. She was also proud of her work with Cub Scouts and the Brownies while raising her children.
Thanks to the following caregivers for their love and care during the final years of her life- Amanda Jones, Rylee Frank, Terry Elmore, Taylor Jones, Amy Frank, Caris Healthcare, NHC Homecare and Ashley Hale. A special thanks to her devoted granddaughter, Amanda, for her daily love and attention over the last five years.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the American Heart Association or First Baptist Church in Greenbrier.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Steven Dwayne Baker
Steven Dwayne Baker, age 63, of Greenbrier, passed away Sunday, July 3, 2022 at his home.
The family will receive friends, and celebrate Steven’s life from 2-4pm on Friday, July 8, 2022 at the Greenbrier United Methodist Church. All who knew him are welcome to attend.
Mr. Baker was born August 22, 1958 in Chicago, IL to the late Everett Dewayne and Carol Christiansen Baker. He was a Mail Carrier for the U.S. Post Office and a member of the Greenbrier United Methodist Church.
Mr. Baker is survived by his wife of 37 years, Teresa Baker; sons, Rory (Tanya) Baker, Coby Baker and Chaz Baker; grandchild, Caden Baker; brothers, Brian (Lynn) Baker, Kevin (Donna) Baker, David (Tina) Baker and Jeff (Nichole) Baker; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or go to https://www.stjude.org/donate
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home, 2619 Hwy 41 S Greenbrier, TN 37073
Obituary for Richard Bryan “Ricky” Carter
Richard Bryan “Ricky” Carter, 60, of Adams, passed away on Friday July 1, 2022, at his home.
Graveside services will be conducted Wednesday July 6th at 11:00 a.m. in the Highland Cemetery in Guthrie, KY with Billy Vogle officiating. Pallbearers will be Logan Carter, Joshua Lowe, Samuel Lowe, Wayne Evans, Eddy Dean Bland, and Jeremy Mantlow. There will be no visitation prior to the graveside service.
Ricky was born August 13, 1961, in Springfield to the late James Edward Logan Carter and Ruth Evelyn Riley Carter. He was a graduate of Jo Byrns High School Class of 1979, where he was a trombone player in the band. Ricky had formerly worked for the Adams Water Plant and for the Tennessee Forestry Department. His primarily love was farming, and he was of the Methodist faith. Ricky enjoyed bowling, playing cards, and throwing darts. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother-in-law: Denny Lowe.
Ricky is survived by his brothers and sister-in-law: Ronnie Carter of Adams, Neil and Susie Carter of Adams, by his sisters: Cathy Lowe and Connie Carter both of Adams, and by several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, and friends.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Evelyn Anne Smith
Evelyn Anne Smith, age 39, of Ann Arbor, Michigan, passed away suddenly on June 28, 2022, in Grass Lake, Michigan, following a longstanding battle with severe mental illness.
Evelyn was born on January 22,1983, in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She graduated with honors from Huron High School, earned a Bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Michigan and a Master of Social Work degree from Washington University of St. Louis, MIssouri. She worked with at-risk youth as a social worker.
Evelyn was also a musician, and was an accomplished singer, pianist, and cellist. She studied at the Berkelee College of Music in Boston in a singer/songwriter program and also in music production. She was an accomplished yoga practitioner and certified yoga teacher, as well as a loom weaver. She was a lifelong Episcopalian. Her kind and generous spirit will be missed by all who knew her.
Evelyn is survived by her mother, Virginia Sory Brown of Ann Arbor; father, Mark Brampton Smith (Catherine) of Stoughton, Wisconsin, and brother, Simon Peter Brampton Smith of Bellevue, Washington.
She was predeceased by her grandparents, Jordan Stokes and Anne Sory Brown of Springfield, and Robert Wesley and Charmian Ettinger Smith of Arlington, Virginia.
Evelyn enjoyed many visits with her grandparents in Springfield.
A memorial service was held on August 15, 2022 at the First Congregational Church of Ann Arbor, Michigan.
A brief service of committal will be held on Thursday, September 1 at 11 am, in the chapel of Austin and Bell Funeral Home on Walnut St. in Springfield, preceded by a time of visitation with the family at 10 am, and followed by inurnment of ashes at Elmwood Cemetery and a lunch at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Humane Society of Huron Valley (www.hshv.org) or American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (www.afsp.org).
“If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.” —Romans 14:8 (NIV)
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St, Springfield, TN
Obituary for James Randall Carr
James Randall Carr, 74, of Cross Plains, passed away on Monday June 27, 2022, at his home.
Funeral services were conducted Friday July 1st at 3:00 p.m. at the Mt. Carmel Baptist Church with Pastor Russ Noss and Dr. Bill Owen officiating. Interment followed in the Cross Plains Cemetery with Aiden Woodfin, Andrew Woodfin, David Buntin, Dennis Morris, Bobby Couts, and Montana Jones serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers were Will Ed Osborne, Jimmy True, Ken Jernigan, Harold Pearson, Jim Fisher, Rusty Graves, Jeff Yates, and Tommy Jones. The family received friends from 1:00 p.m. until service time on Friday at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church.
Mr. Carr was born September 16, 1947, in Cross Plains to the late Fort and Betty Barry Carr. He was a graduate of East Robertson High School Class of 1965 and was a veteran of the Army National Guard. Mr. Carr was true to his lifelong profession of being both a rancher and a cowboy. He was a member of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church and was a Trustee for the Mustang Heritage Foundation. He had a great love for horses and loved nothing better than being on his horse and riding wherever he wanted to go. Mr. Carr enjoyed fishing, hunting, hay farming, and had also been a semitruck driver. He was an inductee in the Western Hall of Fame and had a great love for black powder firearms and had won many awards for his record scores across the years.
Mr. Carr is survived by his wife of 45 years: Paula Ewell Carr of Cross Plains, by his sons: Jeff Woodfin of Oxford, MS, and Mark Woodfin of Cross Plains, by his sister: Linda Buntin of Cross Plains, and by his grandsons: Aiden Woodfin and Andrew Woodfin.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Lafern Belt Martin
Lafern Belt Martin, 89, of Springfield, passed from this life on Monday June 27, 2022, at her home.
Graveside services were conducted Friday July 1st at 10:00 a.m. in the Springfield Memorial Gardens with her grandson, Ryan Martin, officiating. Pallbearers were David Walker, Tommy Johnson, Steve Fisher, Nathan Fisher, Eddie Allred, and David Martin. Honorary pallbearers were Kenny Johnson, Mike Martin, Kent Martin, Gary Johnson, Mike Belt, John Mark Belt, and Cletis Fisher. The family received friends at the graveside service on Friday.
Mrs. Martin was born February 1, 1933, in Robertson County to the late Clarence Thomas “Jack” and Etta Cook Belt. She was a graduate of East Robertson High School and was a retired clerk with South Central Bell. Mrs. Martin was a member of Crossroads Baptist Church and she attended Grace Baptist Church with her family. She loved reading, working puzzles, watching sports and game shows. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband: Billy Mac Martin and by her daughter: Joni Martin.
Mrs. Martin is survived by her son and daughter-in-law: Jeff and Kim Martin of Springfield, by her daughter: Jana Martin of Hendersonville, by her grandchildren: Jackie Rawls, Ryan Martin and wife Michelle, and Greg Martin, by her brothers: Robert Belt of Columbia and George “Johnny” Belt of Hendersonville, by her sisters: Noreen Fisher of Springfield, Juanita Johnson of Springfield, and Phyllis Curtis of Springfield, by her 5 great grandchildren and by her honorary grandson: David Walker.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to Grace Baptist Church, the American Heart Association, or the American Lung Association.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Ila Bell Roach Tucker
Ila Bell Roach Tucker, 87, of Springfield, passed from this life on Monday June 27, 2022, at her home.
Funeral services were conducted Friday July 1st at 12 noon in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Pastor Joey Jones officiating. Interment followed in Springfield Memorial Gardens with Randy Blazer, Derek Clinard, Jeremy Clinard, Jamie Denson, Dillon Denson, and Ricky Blackburn serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers were BJ Denson, Jeremiah Clinard, Jackson Clinard, Tim Roach, and Porter Roach. The family received friends on Thursday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Mrs. Tucker was born April 15, 1935, in Celina to the late Bedford and Abbey Scott Roach. She was a homemaker and loved to share of love of her Lord and Savior with others. Mrs. Tucker loved spending time with her family, crocheting, cooking, and loved going around to nursing homes to sing with the residents. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her children: Harold Slayton, Rosemary Hunt, Kathy Slayton, Alice Mae Slayton, Judy Payne, and Janie Denson, and by her stepdaughter: Melissa Tucker.
Mrs. Tucker is survived by her husband: James Henderson Tucker of Springfield, by her daughters and son-in-law: Ila Mae Elder of Springfield, and Sherry and Randy Blazer of Springfield, by her stepsons: Joey and Chris Tucker both of Kentucky, by her sisters: Anna Frazier of Springfield, and Mary Elizabeth Sager of Minnesota, and by her 6 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, and many great great grandchildren.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Joe Burns Williams, Sr.
Joe Burns Williams, Sr., 85, of Springfield, passed away on Monday June 27, 2022, at TriStar NorthCrest Medical Center.
Funeral services were conducted Thursday June 30th at 10:00 a.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Reverend Rick Robinson officiating. Interment followed in the Williams Chapel Cemetery with Kenneth Spivey, Carter Spivey, Larry Williams, Corey Williams, Kenneth Williams, and Phil Murphy serving as pallbearers. J.L. Pearson served as an honorary pallbearer. The family received friends on Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Mr. Williams was born September 4, 1936, in Robertson County to the late X.R. and Birdie Lee Honeycutt Williams. He was a graduate of East Robertson High School and was a retired farmer and carpenter. Mr. Williams was a member of Williams Chapel Baptist Church, where he sung in the church choir and was a former treasurer of the church. He enjoyed fishing, camping, and was an avid U.T. Vols football fan. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Mr. Williams loved reading his Bible and applying God’s word to his daily life. He always had a song in his heart to share with others. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by several siblings.
Mr. Williams is survived by his wife of 45 years: Glenda Pearson Williams of Springfield, by his sons and daughters-in-law: Jim and Holly Sanders of Smyrna and Joe and Lauren Williams, Jr., of Adairville, KY, by his grandchildren: Alex Sanders and wife Amanda, Ben Sanders and wife Reagan, Matt Sanders, and Jackson Williams, and by his sisters: Mary Edna Sommerville of Portland, and Norma (Erich) Gurr of North Carolina.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Williams Chapel Baptist Church 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 Robert “Turner” Redfern
Robert “Turner” Redfern, age 77, of Adams, passed away Friday, July 1, 2022 at NorthCrest Medical Center.
Graveside services will be conducted Monday, July 4, 2022 at 10am in the Bellwood Cemetery in Adams, TN with Brother Bruce Cunningham officiating. Pallbearers will be Jono Redfern, Tom Redfern, James Stiles, Allan Shepard, Billy Dowlen and Joe Mack. Honorary Pallbearers will be John Grant, Stan Shepard, Michael Redfern, Keith Copeland, Jimmy Dowlen, and William Johnson.
Mr. Redfern was born July 27, 1944 in Livingston, TN to the late David and Fannie Parrish Redfern. He grew up in Port Royal, TN, attending Clarksville High School, Class of ’63. Turner worked as a welder-supervisor for Schultz Mobile Home in Guthrie, Kentucky and also could fix small engines and truck motors. Also, in his spare time he loved music, helping others and talking or as some would say he had the gift to gab, loved his church, Oakwood Baptist Church, and playing the harmonica, which he self-taught himself.
In addition to his parents Mr. Redfern is preceded in death by his brother, Thomas Earl Redfern and numerous other siblings.
Mr. Turner is survived by his loving wife of 55yrs, Peggy Dailey Redfern; daughters, Tonya (fiancé, Steven Darrow) Redfern and Sharon (James Neblett) Redfern; sisters, Barbara Holt and Millie Owens; and 5 grandchildren, Jimbo, Jacob, Mark, Jonathan and Brie.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be to Mrs. Peggy Redfern c/o Austin and Bell Funeral Home.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St, Springfield, TN
Obituary for Ronald Brown
Ronald Dewitt Brown, age 78 of Pleasant View, Tennessee, died Thursday, June 30, 2022 at The Residence at Alive Hospice in Nashville.
Funeral services will be conducted at 24 Church in Pleasant View at 11:00AM on Thursday, July 7th, with Pastor Chris Royalty officiating. Burial will be at 10:00AM on Tuesday, July 12, in Middle Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery in Nashville. Family & friends will serve as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends at the church on Thursday from 9:00AM until the hour of service at 11:00AM.
Mr. Brown was born on December 5, 1943 in Spartanburg, South Carolina to the late Dewitt & Lois Tolleson Brown. He was a veteran of the United States Army. He retired after 40 years from DataCard. He had a great love for his country and loved animals and electronics. Mr. Brown attended 24 Church.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sons, Phillip Anders and Kevin Brown; his sister, Joyce Thorton; and brothers, David Brown and Robert Brown.
Survivors include his wife of 46 years, Linda Brown; son, Billy (Lina) Anders; daughter, Robyn (Marcus) Folks; brother, Wayne (Jane) Brown; sister, Judy (Mike) Rollins; grandchildren, Leeann Brown, Maddie Brown, Alecia Houston, Jasmine Jourdan, and Robert Folks; and great-grandchildren, Mikayla, Alexander & Zoe.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Cheatham County Animal Shelter, 2797 Sams Creek Road, Pegram, Tennessee 37143.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146
Obituary for Henry Allen Ruff
Age 67 of Cottontown passed away Friday, July 1, 2022 at his home. He was born November 1, 1954 in Waynesville, NC to Charles and Mary Ruff. He was self-employed in bread sales. He enjoyed watching cowboy movies and riding motorcycles.
He is preceded in death by his father, Charles Ruff. He is survived by his wife, Chris Ruff, White House, TN; mother,, Mary Ruff; 3 step-daughters, Lisa (David) Benton, Nashville, TN, Christina (Jerry) Hare, Cross Plains, TN and Gina Buti, White House, TN; 2 brothers, Anthony (Wendy) Ruff and Dennis (Margaret Ruff, both of Waynesville, NC; 8 step-grandchildren; 8 step-great grandchildren.
There are no services or visitation planned.
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Josie Wagner
Eudora Wagner “Josie”, age 85 of Ridgetop, Tennessee, died Friday, July 1, 2022 at her son’s residence in Clarksville.
Funeral services will be conducted at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View at 11:00AM on Wednesday, July 6th, with Bro. Tom Payne officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant View United Methodist Church Cemetery with family and friends serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday, July 6th from 8:00AM until the hour of service at 11:00AM.
Mrs. Wagner was born on December 8, 1936 in Nashville, Tennessee to the late Edward & Vittie Hester Martin. She was a homemaker who was a master quilter. She dearly loved her family, most especially her grandchildren. Mrs. Wagner was a member of Stroudsville Church of Christ.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Roy Wagner, Sr.; brother, Edward C. Martin, Jr.; sisters, Mary Frances Denton and Verna Lou Staggs; and grandson, Raymond Lee Wagner.
Survivors include her sons, Roy E. (Carolyn) Wagner, Jr., Stanley (Elizabeth) Wagner, David Wagner, and Edward C. (Magdalena) Martin; daughters, Yvonne Eudora Jackson and Tina Marie (Robert) Adkins; 18 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and many loving nieces & nephews.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Stroudsville Church of Christ Building Fund, 1531 Stroudsville Road, Adams, Tennessee 37010
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146
Obituary for Brenda Joan Hulsey
Age 91, of Greenbrier went home to be with the Lord Friday, July 1, 2022 at her home. She was born February 16, 1931 in Springfield, TN to Samuel & Esmer Warren Mayes. She worked as a cashier for several local grocery stores before her retirement. Brenda enjoyed tending to her flowers, quilting, knitting sweaters and painting. She was a dedicated Christian woman and was a member of Bethel Baptist Church. She had also enjoyed being a member and participating in the Robertson County Home Demonstration Clubs over the years.
She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Floyd B. Hulsey; two brothers, Ralph Mayes and Edward Mayes. She is survived by her sons, Gary Hulsey and Randy (Margie) Hulsey, both of Greenbrier, TN; 3 grandchildren, Jennifer, Kristy and Shaun; 6 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild on the way.
A Graveside service and interment is scheduled for Monday Morning July 4, 2022 at 9am in Mayes Cemetery with family and friends serving as pallbearers. There is no public visitation planned.
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Jerry Wayne Dixon
Age 66 of Orlinda passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, June 30, 2022 in Denver, CO. He was born May 9, 1956 in Clinton, NC to Leland and Mildred Lane Dixon. He worked as an entertainment bus driver for many well known and respected country music artists over the years. He was well respected, very professional and highly sought after by the artists in the country music industry. He loved being home with his family. But he also enjoyed and loved being on the road with his “other family”. When not on the road, he enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren, cooking on the grill, hanging out around the fire pit, listening to a wide variety of music and riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
He is preceded in death by his mother. sister, Teresa Brown. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 40 years, Janice Dixon, Orlinda, TN; sons, Cody (Danielle) Dixon, Cross Plains, TN, Dallis (Laura) Dixon and Paden (Chelsea) Dixon, both of Orlinda, TN; father, Leland Dixon, WV; 6 grandchildren, Alex, Sarah, Rhaelyn, King, Abel and Milena; several aunts, uncles and cousins; many nieces and nephews. A very special thank you to Tina Foster, Janice’s sister, who has been Janice’s rock all of the years Jerry has been on the road. Jerry and Janice both depended on her to be there for Janice in Jerry’s absence.
Funeral service is scheduled for Monday, July 11, 2022 at 11am in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House with Ronald Foster officiating. Interment will follow in White House Memorial Gardens with Cody Dixon, Dallis Dixon, Paden Dixon, Dave Whitted, Drake Alsup and Chris Alsup serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Tommy Griffith, Craig Maddox and Gman Monahan. Visitation is planned for Sunday, July 10, 2022 4-8pm & Monday, July 11, 2022 9am-11am at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made by VENMO @ Dixondonations or direct at any Regions Bank by using JaniceDixon37141 Account Dixondonations.
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Patricia Griffiths
Patricia Ann Griffiths “Gana”, age 68 of Pleasant View, Tennessee, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Wednesday, June 29, 2022 at her home.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00AM on Saturday, July 30 at Flewellyn Baptist Church in Springfield.
Mrs. Griffiths was born on March 6, 1954 in Lake Charles, Louisiana to the late Paul & Nora Ann Holding Harwell. She was employed by Vanderbilt University Medical Center as a surgery scheduler for 15 years. Her most important thing in life was her family and grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brother, Michael Harwell.
Survivors include her daughters, Rhoda (Ricky) Binkley and Emily (Stephen) Palk; grandchildren, Dovrick Binkley, Oliver Palk, and Baron Palk; and loving family member, David Griffiths.
If so desired memorial contributions may be made to the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee, 27E Main Street, Hohenwald, TN 38462.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146
Obituary for Horace Redfearrin
Horace Dean Redfearrin, age 82, of Cross Plains, passed away Monday, June 27, 2022 at The Residence at Alive Hospice in Nashville.
Funeral services were held Friday, July 1, 2022 at 11am in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield with Brother Randy Riggs officiating. Burial followed in the Cross Plains Cemetery with Dalton Pigg, Drake Curtis, Jerrid Traughber, Mike Webb, Buzz Graves, Rusty Graves, and Jeff Redfearrin serving as pallbearers. Mr. Lukas Traughber served as an honorary pallbearer.
Visitation was held at the funeral home on Thursday, June 30, 2022 from 4-7pm and again on Friday from 9am until the hour of service at 11am.
Mr. Redfearrin was born August 18, 1939 in Cross Plains to the late Woodard and Bertha Hunter Redfearrin. He was a veteran, serving in the U.S. Army. He loved playing cards, dancing, telling jokes, hunting, fishing and spending time with his family and friends. Up until his last five years he farmed his entire life. He and his wife also ran a grocery store/restaurant for many years. They loved the people in their community and tried to help them out as much as they could.
In addition to his parents Mr. Redfearrin is preceded in death by his wife, Nancy Ann Graves Redfearrin, his daughter, Sandra Redfearrin, his grandson, Eric Hulsey, his son-in-law, Chris Compton, his brothers, Earl Redfearrin, Ray Redfearrin and Sam Redfearrin, and his sisters, Mary Evans, Betty Gann and Shirley Key.
Mr. Redfearrin in survived by his daughter, Missie Redfearrin Compton of Cross Plains; brothers, Jr. Redfearrin of White House and Roger Redfearrin of Cross Plains; sisters, Barbara Ann Nicholson of Pleasant View and Margaret Tuberville of White House; grandchildren, Crystal (Jerrid) Traughber of Cross Plains, Aleshia Hendricks of Lafayette and Courtney (Josh) Hesson of Orlinda; great-grandchildren, Dalton Pigg, Drake Curtis, Lukas Traughber, Lane Hulsey, Colby Hulsey, Kimberly Traughber, Olivia Traughber, J.C. Traughber, Aria Lynch, Preston Bush and Elijah Hesson; four great-great-grandchildren; and his fur baby, “Lil Man”.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St, Springfield, TN
(Updated) Obituaries June 20-26, 2022
Obituary for Martelle Jonquise Black
Martelle Jonquise Black was born September 17, 1992 to Melissa and McKinzie “Tootie” Black, Jr.
Martelle was educated in the Robertson County School System and was a 2011 graduate of Springfield High School.
Martelle had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. He had a smile that would light up a room. He loved his family and most of all, he loved his children. If you needed a pick me up, he was that person to do it. He was the life of the party keeping everyone laughing til you were crying, doubling over. Martelle would give you the shirt off his back, if he had it and you needed it. He would give it to you even if it was his last. Martelle would also give you the shoes off his feet.
Martelle was preceded in death by his brothers, Ventrell D. Blakemore and McKinzie M. Black, III; grandparents, Mattie Witt, Joe Terry and McKinzie M. Black, Sr.
Martelle departed this earthly life on June 23, 2022 and he leaves to cherish his memories: his mother, Melissa D. Black; his father, McKinzie M. Black, Jr. of Clarksville, TN; his son, Jayden Serna of Clarksville, TN; two daughters, Marielle Sensing and Merci Black; grandmother, Katie Black; two brothers, Montrelle S. Black of Springfield, TN and Austin Black of Gary, IN; god-sister, LaCresha Patterson of Springfield, TN; aunts, Rita Bowens of Springfield, TN, Tracy Black of Nashville, TN, Consuella Black of Nashville, TN, and Bridgette Hodges of Clarksville, TN; niece, Akeelah Bursey of Covington, TN; nephew, DaQuan Head of Springfield, TN; girlfriend, Dereshia Hurt of Springfield, TN; devoted cousin, Shawntez Williams, and a host of cousins, other family and friends.
Viewing, Visitation and Funeral was Friday, July 1, at First Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Mark Washington, Officiant and Pastor Delmus Johnson, Eulogy; Interement was in Restlawn Memorial Garden.
W. D. Crowder Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.
Obituary for David Bryant Ruck
David Bryant Ruck, 63, of Greenbrier, passed away on Saturday June 25, 2022, at Sumner Regional Medical Center in Gallatin.
Funeral services were conducted Thursday June 30th at 2:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Steve Carter officiating. Interment followed in Springfield Memorial Gardens with Jeremy Ekeman, Matt Holland, Winston Winchester, Ty Andal, Kyle Gainous, Harold Hooper, Joel Walker, and Adam Huddleston serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers were Sonny Hill, Brandon Hinkle, Colton Carver, Matthew Carver, and Cooper Warren. The family received 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.
David was born January 11, 1959, in Nashville. He was a graduate of Gallatin High School Class of 1977 and was a veteran of the U.S. Marines. David loved listening to rock music, NASCAR, the Tennessee Titans, and being outside grilling. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. David had lived in both Albuquerque, New Mexico and Shallowater, TX, where he had family and many friends that he loved keeping in touch with. You could always find him talking on the phone with his family, his friends, and his fellow Marine buddies so that he could be kept in the loop of what was going on in all the people’s lives that he cared so much about.
David was preceded in death by his mother: Martha Louise Conquest Ruck and by his half sibling: Michelle Douglas. He is survived by his wife: Connie Cothron Ruck of Greenbrier, by his son and daughter-in-law: Kody and Trina Ruck of Hendersonville, by his daughter: Kensey Ruck of Greenbrier, by his grandchildren: Ariyana Farmer and Daniel Ruck, by his father: George Ruck of California, by his brother and sister-in-law: Tony and Cindy Ruck of Kennedale, TX, and by his half siblings: Bryan Ruck, Jeananne Ruck, and Cheryl Ruck all of California.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to The Wounded Warrior Project 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 William Cook
William Percy “Pete” Cook, age 80, of Springfield, passed away Sunday, June 26, 2022 at Alive Hospice Residence in Nashville.
A Graveside service will be held Wednesday, July 6, 2022 at 12pm Owens Chapel United Methodist Church Cemetery with Dr. David Evans officiating.
Mr. Cook was born June 20, 1942 in Robertson County, TN to the late Percy and Ruby Osborne Cook. He worked as a licensed Tobacco sprayer and was a member of the Owens Chapel United Methodist Church. He was in the Robertson County Laity Club, watched NASCAR, Bull riding, Blue Bloods and westerns. He also enjoyed getting outside and mowing and gardening and turning on some gospel music.
In addition to his parents Mr. Cook is preceded in death by brothers, Wayne and Richard Cook, and sister-in-law, Peggy Cook.
Mr. Cook is survived by his wife of 36 years, Jo Wix Cook; nephew, Tony (Lisa) Cook; nieces, Beth (Ken) Toothman and Kathy (Scott) Wiggins; special nephew, Chris Cook; and best friends, Melvin Spain, Lola Cook, Linda Cook and John Wiggins.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St, Springfield, TN
Obituary for Wilson Sims
Wilson ‘Woody’ Sims died at his home on Sunday, June 26, 2022. Woody is survived by his wife of 74 years, Linda Bell Sims; children, Linda Rickman Baer and husband Terry Blair, Nashville; Suzanne Sims Haizlip and husband Wilson Haizlip, Chattanooga; and Wilson Sims, Jr. and wife Ann Sims, Asheville, NC; grandchildren, Jeffrey Sims Edmonds and wife Lourdes Cuellar, Nashville; Philip Wilson Edmonds and wife Linsey Hayes Edmonds, Driggs, ID; Callie Elizabeth Sims, Mars Hill, NC; and Jenny Mariah Sims, Santa Barbara, CA; great-grandchildren, Panambi and Luna Edmonds Cuellar, Nashville; sister, Betty ‘Bebe’ Sims Hatcher, Atlanta. He is predeceased by his older brother Cecil Sims, Jr., killed in action in World War II, and by sister, Grace ‘Susie’ Sims Irvin.
Woody was born December 24, 1924, in Nashville to Grace Wilson and Cecil Sims. He attended Parmer School, Nashville, and graduated from The Webb School, Bell Buckle, TN, Senior Class President, and Honor Council Chairman. He entered Vanderbilt University in June 1942, simultaneously enlisting with the Marines Corps Reserve. After attending Vanderbilt for one year, he was sent by the Marine Corps to active duty at the University of North Carolina, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree, 1946.
Upon graduation, Woody completed Marine Boot Camp at Parris Island, SC, was stationed at Camp Lejeune, NC, and attended Officer’s School at Quantico, VA. Commissioned a Second Lieutenant, 1945, Lt. Sims was assigned to the Commandant’s Intelligence Staff, part of a team planning the proposed invasion of Japan. He was discharged from active duty upon the War’s conclusion.
Woody graduated from Vanderbilt Law School, 1948, immediately joining the law firm of Bass, Berry & Sims in Nashville. In August of that year, he married Linda Bell of Springfield, TN. He was recalled to active duty in the Korean War, 1950, assigned to the US Naval School of Justice, Providence, RI, graduating with Honors and working as a legal officer for two additional years.
Mr. Sims practiced law with Bass, Berry & Sims for over 50 years in a variety of specialties, beginning as a trial attorney throughout many counties across TN. He eventually engaged in trials across the country. Over time, his practice shifted to labor law and then to general business practice. During these years he served as General Counsel or on the Board of Directors of over a dozen publicly and privately held companies. In later years, he confined his practice to commercial litigation and business consulting.
As an attorney, Mr. Sims contributed to the legal profession, serving as President of the Nashville Bar Association, Speaker of the House of Delegates of the Tennessee Bar Association, and President of the Tennessee Bar Association. He was a founder and first Chairman of the Tennessee Bar Foundation, President of the Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee, a member of the American Bar Association, the American Judicature Society, and a life member of the American Bar Foundation. He lectured to the Tennessee Bar Association on pro-bono work, the Tennessee Medical Association on medical malpractice and the Tennessee Manufacturers Association on labor matters.
Mr. Sims was actively involved in the political affairs of the state of Tennessee, serving in the 1960’s as Chairman of the Tennessee Commission on Human Relations, with a focus on racial issues and civil rights. In 1959 and 1960, he served as Chairman of the Davidson County delegation, in the Tennessee Legislature, helping to create and pass legislation terminating the state income tax. In 1987, he was cited by the Supreme Court of Tennessee “for his leadership and service to the legal profession as the first chairperson of the Commission on Continuing Legal Education,” and in 1988, Mr. Sims was awarded the highest honor of the Nashville Bar Association, cited for his “outstanding contributions to his community and faithful service as a member of the Bar.”
A loyal Tarheel, Woody was a life member of the Chancellor’s Council and member of the Board of Visitors and Gerrard Society, University of North Carolina. A devote Commodore, he was a life member of the Chancellor’s Council, member of the Oak Leaf Society and the Alumni Association Board of Directors, Vanderbilt University. He served the Vanderbilt Law School as Founder of the Dean’s Council and President of the Alumni Association, awarded the Distinguished Service Award, Vanderbilt Law School.
His contributions to the local Nashville community are many, serving on the Board of Directors of the Nashville Chamber of Commerce, Hillwood Country Club, Belle Meade Country Club, and the Nashville YMCA. He was a member of the Watauga Society, and supported United Cerebral Palsy of Middle TN, the TN Kidney Foundation, and Matthew 25, Inc. He was a trustee of Meharry Medical College for 20 years and The Webb School for 70 years, where he earned the Distinguished Alumnus Award. He was a member of the President’s Society of Martin Methodist College in Pulaski, TN, and long-time member, Nashville Society of Amateur Chefs. In his later years, he and his wife, Linda, tutored elementary school children in Nashville’s Public School system.
Woody was an outdoorsman, spending much of his life farming, hunting, and fishing, with farm interests in Williamson, Robertson, Cheatham, and Perry counties, TN and Ballard County, KY. In his retirement years, he spent a substantial part of the winter months waterfowl hunting in Ballard County. Summer months were spent golfing and fly fishing at their family summer home in the mountains of Cashiers, NC, where he was a member and President of the Colony Club at High Hampton.
Woody was a member of the Cashiers United Methodist Church and the West End United Methodist Church, where he served on the Administrative Board.
A Celebration of Life Service will occur Wednesday, July 6, at 11:00 am, Main Sanctuary, West End United Methodist Church, Nashville. The Reverend Carol Cavin-Dillon, officiating. Live stream of the Service will be available at: www.westendumc.org/livestream.
Visitations: Tuesday, July 5, 4:00-6:00 pm and Wednesday, July 6, 9:30-11:00 am in Reed Hall. Private burial will occur at a later date.
The family would like to thank Margaret Lawrence and her wonderful team of angels at “Serving Our Seniors” for the care they have given the Sims’ over the past three years, and Alive Hospice for their support. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests remembrances be made to The Webb School, P.O. Box 488, Bell Buckle, TN 37020, Vanderbilt Law School, 131 21st Ave South, Nashville, TN 37203, or West End Methodist Church, 2200 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St, Springfield, TN
Obituary for Harriett R. Dorris
Harriett R. Dorris, age 88 of Greenbrier, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2022. Mrs. Dorris was born on August 15, 1933 in Adairville, Kentucky to the late Wallace and Verna Rutherford.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Claude Dorris; and siblings, LaVergne Wilson and Mary Agnes Ratliff. She is survived by her daughters, S. Renee Dorris and Teresa Haynes (Mike); grandchildren, Stephanie Haynes (Chris Nabors), Chris Haynes (Melissa), and Clint Haynes (Lacie); great-grandchildren, Quincy, Brayden, Jackson, Jordan, Oliver, and Elsie Haynes; and sisters, Patricia Ann “Charlie” Rhea (Richard) and Janet Lirette (Jess).
Mrs. Dorris was a Devout Christian and member of Hillcrest Church of Christ in Springfield. She was a talented quilter and seamstress; she enjoyed cooking and baking, gardening and golfing. Mrs. Dorris lived a life of service and enjoyed helping others.
A Celebration of Life was held Thursday, June 30, 2022, 1:00 P.M. at Hillcrest Church of Christ in Springfield, TN with Bro. Marvin Crouch officiating. Visitation with the family was Thursday, June 30, 2022 from 11:00 A.M. until time of service at the church.
Arrangements Entrusted To: Sumner Funeral & Cremation, Gallatin (615) 452-9059.
Obituary for Kenneth L. Welch
Kenneth L. Welch, 55, of Springfield passed away on June 20, 2022, at Tristar Centennial Medical Center in Nashville surrounded by family and friends.
A visitation with the family was held on Saturday, June 25, 2022, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Robertson County Funeral Home. A private family graveside service was conducted in the Elmwood Cemetery. Pastor Jerry Davis officiated the service. Christian Welch, Justin Perry, Patrick Welch, Jeremy Byrd, Steven O’Connor, Jud Scharff, and Andrew Taylor served as pallbearers.
Kenneth, who was affectionately known as Kenn, was born January 7, 1967, in Heidelberg, Germany. He was a mechanical engineer with the Q corp. He formerly attended Browns Bridge Church in Gainesville, Georgia. In his free time, Kenn loved to be out on Lake Lanier in his boat, where he enjoyed fishing, the sunshine, and seeing how fast he could get people thrown off while tubing. If he was not out on the boat, he enjoyed taking trips to the beach with his family. When the weather was cold, he could be found yelling at his favorite football team, the Philadelphia Eagles, while sipping on a nice glass of bourbon. Although he was taken from us far too soon, he was at least able to see his Eagles win a Super Bowl. If Kenn was not on his boat or watching football, he was building or repairing something, or cooking up a delicious batch of barbeque in his smoker. He also loved making everyone laugh with his sharp and witty humor.
Kenn was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence Welch. He will be deeply missed by his wife of 28 years, Rebecca Laxton Welch of Springfield, his children that he loved so dearly, his son Christian Welch of Springfield, and daughter Nicole Anna Welch and her fiancé Justin Perry of Mableton, Georgia. He also leaves behind and will be missed dearly by his mother Heidimarie Welch of Levittown, Pennsylvania, his sister Heide Kraus of Bensalem, Pennsylvania, and his brother Patrick Welch of Berlin, Germany. He will also be deeply missed by many friends he made along the way.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for James Richard “Ricky” Adams
James Richard “Ricky” Adams (aka – Rabbit), age 69 of Chapmansboro, TN passed away Friday, June 24, 2022 surrounded by family.
Funeral services were held at 1pm on Tuesday, June 28th, 2022 at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier, TN. Burial followed at the Dunn-Higdon Cemetery in Cedar Hill, TN. The family received friends 4pm to 7pm on Monday, June 27th and 11 am until time of service on Tuesday, June 28th at the funeral home.
James was born on June, 10 1953 in Nashville, TN to the late James George and Colyne Hope Callis Adams. He was proceeded in death by a sister, Sandra Gayle (Leslie) Shaffer.
He served in the US Marines where he received the National Defense Service Medal, Rifle Marksman Badge, Pistol Marksman Badge, Good Conduct Medal, and Certificate of Appreciation. He was employed by Piedmont Natural Gas (formerly known as Nashville Gas Co) for 36 years. He was a proud Journeyman MTJ as a member of the UA (Local 702).
He loved being “Paw Paw” to his seven grandchildren. He enjoyed classic cars, motorcycles, and watching old westerns in his retirement.
He is survived by sons, Brian (Erin) Adams, Kevin (Tiffany) Adams, Justin (Keely) Adams; brothers, Scott (Cindy) Adams, Phillip Adams, Carl Adams; grandchildren, Hayden Angus, Deziree Ridgeway, Cameron Adams, Justin J. Adams, Brelee Adams, Miles Adams, and Kylie Adams.
Visitation: JUN 27. 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM (CT)
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home, 2619 Hwy 41 S Greenbrier, TN 37073
Obituary for Dennis Keith Cummings
Dennis Keith Cummings, age 62 of Greenbrier passed away Tuesday, June 21, 2022 at Tri Star Summit Medical Center.
Funeral services were held at 7pm on Monday, June 27, 2022 at Calvary Baptist Church in Greenbrier with Bro. Donnie Bryant officiating. Burial followed Tuesday in the Crain Hill Cemetery, Rock Island, TN. The family received friends 5pm to 7 pm on Monday at the church.
He was born in Euclid, OH on April 14, 1960 to the late David Lawrence Cummings and Sarah J. MCCormick Cummings. He was also preceded in death by a brother, David Clark Cummings.
He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Greenbrier and was a Senior Account Manager for Sabre Hospitality. He enjoyed spending time with family, reading, cooking and was a big Cleveland Sports fan.
He is survived by his wife, Scarlett Gillum Cummings of Greenbrier; mother, Sarah MCCormick Cummings; brother; Doug (Karen) Cummings of SC; sister, Susan Cummings of FL; sister-in-law, Marnie Cummings of OH and several nieces and nephews.
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home, 2619 Hwy 41 S Greenbrier, TN 37073
Obituary for Thomas “Tommy” Pratt Burroughs Jr.
Thomas “Tommy” Pratt Burroughs, Jr. age 65 of Madison passed away Tuesday, June 21, 2022 at his home.
The family received friends 4pm to 8pm on Thursday, June 23rd, 2022 at Austin & Bell Funeral Home Greenbrier. There was a private family burial on Friday, June 24th at Oakland Cemetery with Chase Warren, Taylor Bagwell, Chase Christian, Michael Walker and other family and friends serving as pallbearers.
He was born September 30, 1956 in Nashville, TN to the late Thomas Pratt (Jr) and Melba Howard Burroughs. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Mary Beth Warren.
He attended Cornerstone Church and was a Machinist for Vought Aero Space. He loved his family very much, especially the grandkids. He enjoyed motorcycles and race cars.
He is survived by his wife, Paulette Warren Burroughs; son, Alan (Jennifer) Warren; sister, Carol Ann Burroughs; grandchildren, Chase Warren, Hannah Bagwell, Aymie Christian, Ali Beth Johnson; great-grandchildren, Dani Bagwell, Weston Bagwell, Decklan Bagwell, Blakley Christian and Dawson Christian.
Arrangements entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home, 2619 Hwy 41 S Greenbrier, TN 37073
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