In Loving Memory: Obituaries Oct. 3-9, 2022
ROBERTSON COUNTY TENNESSEE: (Smokey Barn News)
*Refresh this page for updates and newly listed obituaries for this week.
Obituary for Clifford Holt
Clifford Holt, Age 69, of Adams, Tennessee, died Thursday, October 6, 2022, at the EgeMed Hospital in Soke/Aydin, Turkey after a short illness while on a cruise.
A Celebration of Life Service will be conducted at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View at 1:00 PM on Saturday, October 22nd, with Bro. Bruce Cunningham officiating. Burial will follow in Shepard Cemetery in Stroudsville, Tennessee. Active pallbearers will be Conn Butts, Shawn Clemments, Culley Holt, Frank Holt, Jr., Randy Luckey, John Wamble and Sammy Sanders. Honorary pallbearers are Tony Centonze, Danny Killebrew and Lyle Bogard.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday, October 21st from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM and again on Saturday from 10 AM until the hour of service at 1:00 PM.
Mr. Holt was born on September 6th, 1953 in Montgomery County, Tennessee to the late Walter and Jewell Katherine Shepard Holt. He graduated from Clarksville High School in 1971 and began working at TRANE in November of the same year. After 43 years of service, he retired in August of 2014. Cliff loved watching University of Tennessee Football, St. Louis Cardinals Baseball, playing golf, and spending time with his girls and Joe … but he didn’t want Joe to know that. He loved talking sports with you and could remember scores from back in the 80’s. The past few years he had stepped out of his comfort zone and enjoyed traveling seeing the world.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Holt is preceded in death by his brother, Frank Holt, Sr. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Angie and Joe Groves; granddaughter, Carleigh Joe Groves; Sister, Effie Pardon; dear companion until the end, Judy Holt and best friend, John Wamble.
If so desired memorial contributions may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, Grand Central Station, PO Box 4777, New York, NY 10163-4777 or Online
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View is in charge of local arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146
Obituary for Helen Harp
After an extended illness, on October 8, 2022, Helen Faye Harp went home to rest in the arms of Christ until that day when we will all be reunited in a far better home than this one.
Helen was born on April 28, 1948, to George Thomas and Lena Cleo Gregory, both of whom proceeded her in death. She was also proceeded by two brothers and five sisters, and her much loved mother and father-in-law, Birtle and Lena Harp.
She was a devoted child, beloved sister, and treasured wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, cousin, mentor, and care giver. She loved, and was loved, by all who knew her.
She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Don Harp, and her children Shelly (Steve) Fields of Ideal, Ga, Jason, of Springfield, Tn, Nikki, of Montezuma, Ga, and Derek, of Ellijay, Ga. As well as her beloved grandchildren, Brandon (Jenny), Megan (Stephen), Joshua, Anthony, Jacob (Emily), Braxten, Olivia, and Darien, and several great grandchildren. She is also survived by Emily Lawrence, and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and other kin as well as a multitude of wonderful friends, all of whom loved her very much.
Pallbearers will be Anthony Harp, Jacob Harp, Joshua McMurtry, Brandon McMurtry, Stephen Underwood, and Brien Bush.
Honorary pallbearers will be Wayne (CC McCartney) Scott, Lisa Langley, Linda Cauley, Ray Harp, Emily Ann Lawrence, Debbie Bollinger Jones, Alexandria Altman, Devon O’Day, Becky Hobbs, Billy Centeno, and many other family members and treasured friends.
Helen loved life, and she lived a very full one. She loved to fish and bowl, and when she was younger, she loved to play ladies softball. She was a wonderful dancer and danced on a precision clogging team that won the Mid-South State Senior Fair Clogging championship in 1985. One of her special pleasures was watching her granddaughter Olivia dance.
She loved the University of Tennessee sports, and was a faithful fan of the football team and of the ladies basketball and fast pitch softball teams
Helen was a hard worker, and in addition to being a homemaker, she excelled in many fields of employment. She was employed for several years by Wilson Sporting Goods in Springfield, and by the Springfield Walmart.
In the mid 80s she became the Director of Publishing for Worldwide Entertainment, a country music publishing company and recording label, where she worked with some of the best songwriters in country music.
One of her proudest achievements was when she became part owner and office manager- Director of Operations for a nationally syndicated radio program called Climbing Country, where she met and worked with some of the biggest stars in country music. At many functions among those stars, she was the light in the room, and was loved by all. She was proud to have worked with Chubby Checker when he was in Nashville recording an album and became friends with him. There are so many stories of the things she accomplished in the music business they would require a book to tell.
She retired from public work in 2009 from Sprint, where she was a call center representative, and she and Don moved to Georgia to be closer to their children.
She was much loved and will be missed by all who knew her.
She will be laid to rest in Memorial Gardens at 3:00 PM, on Tuesday, October 18th, in Springfield in a quiet graveside service, where her family and friends will gather to pay their respects.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Travis E. Dowlen
Travis Eugene Dowlen was born November 28, 1983, in Springfield, Tennessee to Linda Hines and the late Michael Dowlen. God called him home for his eternal rest on Monday, October 3, 2022.
Travis received his education at Springfield High School, graduating with the Class of 2002.
He was married to Evelyn Harris and within this union they joined together a family of three sons and one stepdaughter.
Travis was a member of the St. James Missionary Baptist Church. He worked many years at Electrolux.
Travis was a great son, brother and father. He loved spending time with his family and friends. He was devoted to providing and taking care of his family. He worked hard and played hard. He liked to camp, grill and cook.
He was preceded in death by his father, Michael Dowlen and brother, Eric Kinta Hines.
He leaves to cherish his memories: his mother, Linda Hines; three sons, Rashad, Travis Jr. and Kendrick Dowlen; stepdaughter, Halo Harris; sister, Te’erra Dowlen; brothers, Jeffery Dowlen and Brandon McCarley; mother-in-law, Demetra Harris; nephews, Qwentae Buck, Queshon and Seon Cromwell, Jeffery Dowlen Jr., and Tyson Dowlen; nieces, Andrea, Aaliyah, Gracelynn, Laylh and Augustine Dowlen; several devoted friends, LaDaverick Suggs, Jamal Graves, Reggie Malvo, Tony Dowlen, Marcus Johnson and Michael Wayne; his second mom, Melody Dioiorio; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Viewing, Visitation, and Funeral was Friday, October 7, 2022 at St. James Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Mark Washington, Eulogy and Officiant; Interment was in Restlawn Memorial Garden.
W. D. Crowder Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.1800 John L Patterson St, Springfield, TN
Obituary for James Owen Utley
July 29, 1946 ~ October 6, 2022 (age 76)
James Owen Utley, age 76 of Cross Plains, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, October 6, 2022 at Skyline Medical Center in Nashville. Joint funeral services for he and his wife, Clara Jean Utley, who passed on September 30, 2022 will be held on Saturday, October 15, 2022 at 1:00 PM at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. Rev. Robert E. Bell will officiate, and Rev. Arneal Strain will give the eulogy, Pallbearers will be Clifford Walker, Jason Thomas, Jr., Jordan Thomas, Mike Hall, Jr., James Taylor, William Barbee, Sampson Williams, Lance Williams, Michael Utley, Robert Louis Bell, Fred Bell, James K. Blakemore, Ernest Matthews, and Marco Partinger. The family will receive friends at the church on Saturday from 11 AM until the hour of service.
Mr. Utley was born July 29, 1946 in White House to the late Forrest and Lockey Dee Williams Utley. He was a member of Howard’s Chapel Baptist Church in Goodlettsville where he professed his faith at an early age and he was a truck driver and a specialized concrete worker for decades at Tri-County Concrete Company in Hendersonville. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Clara Jean Bell Utley; brothers, Joe Allen and Lansford Robert Utley.
He leaves to mourn his sons, James o. Utley of Nashville and Ronald Utley and wife Regina Utley of Portland; sisters, Portia O’Neal of Nashville and Doris Walker-Taylor and husband James Taylor of Goodlettsville; grandchildren, Savanna, Sean, and Jonathan Utley; great grandchildren, Santana Utley, ZY-ari Jorgia Lynn Utley, and ZY-onna Clara Jean Utley; and a host of nieces and nephews.
The family would like to give special thanks to all the pallbearers and flower bearers.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for David Lee Music
David Lee Music, age 48, of White House, passed away Sunday, October 9, 2022 at his home. Funeral services will be conducted at 1pm Friday, October 14, 2022 in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home, Greenbrier with Bro. Randy Riggs officiating. Per David’s wishes, he is to be cremated following the services.
The family will receive friends from 11am until the time of service at 1pm Friday at the funeral home.
Mr. Music was born March 10, 1974 in Marion, OH to Obal and Rea Jean Carter Music.
David is preceded in death by his father, Obal Music.
He is survived by his sons, Eugene “Carter” Music and Jax Lee Music; mother, Rea Jean Music; brothers, Mark Music and Jerome Music; and sisters, Christa Music and her partner William Nance and Annie Price.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier is in charge of these arrangements. 2619 Hwy 41 S Greenbrier, TN 37073
Obituary for Bob Batson
Robert “Bob” Benton Batson, age 75 of Pleasant View, Tennessee, died Saturday, October 8, 2022 at the Residence at Alive Hospice in Nashville.
Funeral services will be conducted at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View at 1:00PM on Thursday, October 13th, with Bro. Randy Riggs officiating. Burial will follow in EverRest of Cheatham with family and friends serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday, October 12th from 6:00PM until 8:00PM and again on Thursday from 12:00PM noon until the hour of service at 1:00PM.
Mr. Batson was born on June 12th, 1947 in Long Beach, California, to the late Dean & Ruth Brown Batson. He was a retired certified public accountant and a veteran of the United States Air Force having served two tours in the Vietnam War.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Lauwana Batson; son, Brian (Mandi) Batson; brother, Rick (Carol) Batson; and grandchildren, Carly, Nate, and Ellie Batson.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to Alive Hospice, 1718 Patterson Street, Nashville, Tennessee 37203
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View is in charge of local arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146
Obituary for Marty Biggs
Martin “Marty” Odell Biggs, age 62 of Chapmansboro, Tennessee, died Saturday, October 8, 2022 at the Residence at Alive Hospice in Nashville.
Funeral services will be conducted at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View at 11:00AM on Tuesday, October 11, with Bro. Barry Voorhies officiating. Burial will follow at 2:00PM in Burns Cemetery in Rockvale, Tennessee with Milton Johnson, Jerry Brown, Jeff Kelton, Joseph Brown, Jimmy Bennett, and Brad Bennett serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday, October 10th from 3:00PM until 7:30PM and again on Tuesday from 10:00AM until the hour of service at 11:00AM.
Mr. Biggs was born on January 13, 1960 in Nashville, Tennessee to the late Ernest & Ida Arrington Biggs. He had been installing and selling floor covering since he was 15 years old and worked for Carter Floor Covering for over 30 years. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, and being the funniest guy around. Mr. Biggs loved his family, most especially his grandchildren and was a member of the Lifehouse Fellowship Church.
Survivors include his wife of 31 years, Sara Biggs; daughter, Elizabeth (Joseph) Brown; brother, Kirby Biggs; granddaughters, Katherine Brown and Olivia Brown; and Aunt Betty.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Burns Cemetery, C/O Lisa Batey, 7508 Bradley Creek Road, Lascassas, Tennessee 37085
Tribute Photos
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View is in charge of local arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146
Obituary for Jo Taylor Watson
Jo Taylor Watson, 94, of Springfield, passed from this life on Friday October 7, 2022, at TriStar NorthCrest Medical Center.
Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday October 11th at 1:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Brother Caleb Lewis officiating. Interment will follow in the Bellwood Cemetery in Adams with Michael Bilyeu, Austin Bilyeu, Hunter Bilyeu, Jeremy Watson, and Mark McCandless serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be the members of the TriStar NorthCrest Medical Center Volunteers. The family will receive friends on Monday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on and Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Ms. Jo was born August 27, 1928, in Carrollton, KY to the late Harvey and Pauline Wright Taylor. She was a homemaker and a member of Grace Baptist Church in Springfield. She was a member of the TriStar NorthCrest Medical Center Auxiliary for over 27 years. Ms. Jo was the recent recipient of the National Volunteer of the Year for HCA. She loved working word puzzles and traveling. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Claude Watson, Sr., and by six brothers and two sisters.
Ms. Jo is survived by her sons and daughter-in-law: Claude and Donna Watson, Jr., of Lebanon, Arthur Watson of Greenbrier, and Timmy Watson of Elkton, KY, by her daughter: Paula Watson Bilyeu of Springfield, and by her 12 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren, and 5 step grandchildren.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Lovie Virginia Johnson
July 24, 1948 ~ October 6, 2022 (age 74)
Full obituary to be posted.
VISITATION: Wednesday, October 12, 2022- 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Robertson County Funeral Home
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for J.L. Bush, Jr.
J.L. Bush, Jr., 87, of Greenbrier, passed away on Wednesday October 5, 2022, at his home.
Funeral services were conducted Friday October 7th at 11:00 a.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Brother Jon Briggs officiating. Interment followed in the Greenbrier Cemetery with Kevin Bush, Sr., Kevin Bush, Jr., James Foster, Ronnie Jones, and Joe Yount serving as pallbearers. The family received friends on Friday from 9:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Mr. Bush was born May 9, 1935, in Nashville to the late J.L. and Reba Louise Parrish Bush, Sr. He worked in general construction for many years and was of the Baptist faith. Mr. Bush was a 32nd Degree Mason and a member of the Scottish Rite.
Mr. Bush is survived by his wife of 65 years, Betty Parker Bush of Greenbrier, by his son and daughter-in-law: Kevin Jay and Amanda Bush of Louisville, and by his five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Marty Biggs
Martin “Marty” Odell Biggs, age 62 of Chapmansboro, Tennessee, died Saturday, October 8, 2022 at the Residence at Alive Hospice in Nashville.
Funeral services will be conducted at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View at 11:00AM on Tuesday, October 11, with Bro. Barry Voorhies officiating. Burial will follow at 2:00PM in Burns Cemetery in Rockvale, Tennessee with Milton Johnson, Jerry Brown, Jeff Kelton, Joseph Brown, Jimmy Bennett, and Brad Bennett serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday, October 10th from 3:00PM until 7:30PM and again on Tuesday from 10:00AM until the hour of service at 11:00AM.
Mr. Biggs was born on January 13, 1960 in Nashville, Tennessee to the late Ernest & Ida Arrington Biggs. He had been installing and selling floor covering since he was 15 years old and worked for Carter Floor Covering for over 30 years. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, and being the funniest guy around. Mr. Biggs loved his family, most especially his grandchildren and was a member of the Lifehouse Fellowship Church.
Survivors include his wife of 31 years, Sara Biggs; daughter, Elizabeth (Joseph) Brown; brother, Kirby Biggs; granddaughters, Katherine Brown and Olivia Brown; and Aunt Betty.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Burns Cemetery, C/O Lisa Batey, 7508 Bradley Creek Road, Lascassas, Tennessee 37085
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View is in charge of local arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146
Obituary for Bobby George Allen Sr.
Bobby Allen passed from this life on October 6, 2022. He was born in Morrison, TN on March 28, 1944, and spent his early life in Grundy County, TN with frequent trips back to “the Mountain” for family visits. His parents were William R. and Georgia W. Allen. His brothers; Mason and Walter Allen preceded him in death and he is survived by his sister Barbara (Lee) Hodges. His family moved to the Millersville, TN area and then on to Greenbrier, TN in 1960. He attended Greenbrier High School where he was a running back for Coach Blue Howse’s Bobcats during their era of 24 games with no losses. After graduation, Bobby became a welder who was proud of his reputation of being called upon for weld jobs that required x-ray testing. He would proudly point out beams he had welded at Opryland Hotel and the tanks he had welded on Peterbilt trucks. He retired from Peterbilt Motors in 2003.
He was a Christian with strong beliefs and attended Main Street Church of Christ.
He married his high school classmate, Carolyn Fehrman Allen and they had two sons: Bobby G. Allen, Jr (Shelly) and J. Travis Allen (Stacy). He was the proud Grandpa of Curt (Kristy) Allen, Casey (Brittany) Allen, Keri (Nathan) Birdwell and Cody (Shea) Allen. And, then he got the pleasure of repeating the Grandpa role with his great-grands: Willow Rose Birdwell, Braylen Allen, Macie Leigh Allen, Aubrey Allen, Reed Allen, Calum Birdwell, Finn Birdwell (deceased) and Jolie Allen.
Appreciation is expressed to Dr. Thomas Johnston and staff at The Advanced Heart Failure Clinic at Centennial and to Dr. Dennis Rainwater and Tiffany at NorthCrest Tri-Star for their excellent care and compassion.
Pursuant to Bobby’s request, his earthly body is being cremated and a family memorial visitation/Celebration of Life will be held from 4-7pm on Thursday, October 20, 2022 at the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier.
In lieu of other forms of condolence, please perform an act of kindness for someone who could use assistance: hold a door, say a kind word, help with a chore; etc. This will be an honor for Bobby’s memory and most of all you will honor our Lord.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St, Springfield, TN
Obituary for Billie Jean Burney
Billie Jean Burney, age 91, of Cedar Hill, passed away Thursday, October 6, 2022 at NHC Healthcare in Springfield.
Funeral services will be held Monday, October 10, 2022 at 2pm in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield with Brother Bruce Cunningham officiating. Burial will follow in the Dunn Cemetery in Cedar Hill with Nicholas Murphey, Jamie Burney, Jamie Barnhart, Landon Joyce, Wesley Stuard, and Garry Pangborn serving as pallbearers. Mr. Eric Carneal is an honorary pallbearer.
Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Monday from 11am until the hour of service at 2pm.
Mrs. Burney was born November 28, 1930 in Nashville to the late Thomas Wade and Mary Louise Cooksey Gregory. She was a homemaker and was of the Baptist faith.
In addition to her parents Mrs. Burney is preceded in death by her husband, James Burney, her son, Tom Burney, and her daughter, Pat Burney Byrne.
Mrs. Burney is survived by her daughter, Sandy Yates; grandchildren, Stephanie Murphey, Jamie Burney, Shannon Holt, Stacy Byrne, and Katy Barnhart; 6 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St, Springfield, TN
Obituary for Paul Wilkerson
Paul Gene Wilkerson, age 78, of Springfield, passed away Thursday, October 6, 2022 at The Waters of Springfield.
Funeral services will be held Monday, October 10, 2022 at 11am in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield with Dr. Jason Wilkerson officiating. Burial will follow in the Springfield Memorial Gardens with Jack W. Wilkerson, Joseph Traughber, Cody Wilkerson, Colton Wilkerson, Charles Wilkerson, Jr., Calvin Cothron, Mike Watts, and Glenn Mason serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are the City of Springfield Electric Department, the member of the Woodland Street United Methodist Church, Mike Cobb, Jimmy Lemley, Billy Grant, Kempf Wilkerson, and Malcolm E. Wilkerson.
Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Sunday, October 9, 2022 from 12:30-4:30pm and again on Monday from 10am until the hour of service at 11am.
Mr. Wilkerson was born October 28, 1943 in Columbus, OH to the late Malcolm and Annie Lou Martin Wilkerson. He worked for the City of Springfield in the Electric Department for over 44 years, was a veteran of the U.S. Army, and was a member of the Woodland Street United Methodist Church.
In addition to his parents Mr. Wilkerson is preceded in death by his brothers, Albert “Jack” Wilkerson and Robert Wilkerson, his sister, Charlotte Jane Wilkerson, and his nephew, Jackie Wilkerson. Mr. Wilkerson is survived by his special friend of more than 47 years, Linda Carter; brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Donna Wilkerson; and a host of loving nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews.
A special thanks goes to the staff of NHC Healthcare and Caris Hospice for the love and compassion shown to Mr. Wilkerson and his family.
If so desired memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or to the Woodland Street United Methodist Church. Any donations may be sent in c/o Austin & Bell.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St, Springfield, TN
Obituary for Paul Sharp, Jr.
Paul Ray Sharp, Jr., age 56, of Adairville, passed away Thursday, October 6, 2022 at The Medical Center at Bowling Green.
Funeral services will be held Sunday, October 9, 2022 at 2pm in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield with Brother Randy Crawford officiating. Burial will follow in the Greenwood Cemetery in Adairville, KY with family and friends serving as pallbearers.
Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Sunday from 10am until the hour of service at 2pm.
Mr. Sharp was born October 23, 1965 in Springfield, TN to the late Mr. Paul Ray Sharp, Sr. and Mrs. Charlotte Elsie Ollis Sharp of Adairville. He worked in construction and was a Christian.
In addition to his father Mr. Sharp is preceded in death by his sister, Shirley Traylor.
In addition to his mother Mr. Sharp is survived by his daughter, Elaina Sharp of St. Louis, MO; brother, Gary Ollis of NC; and sisters and brothers-in-law, Geraldine and Scottie Stagner of Adairville and Frances and Randy Crawford of Springfield.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St, Springfield, TN
(Updated) Obituaries Sept. 26-Oct. 2, 2022
Obituary for Clara Jean Utley
Clara Jean Utley, age 75 of Cross Plains, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, September 30, 2022 at her home.
Mrs. Utley was born June 24, 1947 in Cross Plains to the late Joe and Hazel Ree Hendley Bell. She was a member of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church where she professed her faith in Christ at an early age. She retired from Skyline Medical Center and worked before that at Nashville Memorial Hospital as an Anesthesia Technician. Altogether she worked at these two places for 53 years. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Douglas, Robert Louis, Charles Oliver, and Bruce Bell.
Mrs. Clara is survived by her husband, James Owen Utley of Cross Plains; sons and daughter-in-law, James O. Utley of Nashville and Ronald K. and Regina Utley of Portland; brother Joe David Bell of Florida; grandchildren, Savanna, Sean, and Jonathan Utley; and great-grandchildren, Santana Utley, ZY-ari Jorgia Lynn Utley, and ZY-onna Clara Jean Utley; and a host of nieces and nephews.
VISITATION: Saturday, October 15, 2022: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Friendship Missionary Baptist Church – 2871 Friendship Road
Cross PLains, TN 37049
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for William L. “Bill” Miller, Jr.
William L. “Bill” Miller, Jr., age 67 of Springfield, passed from this life on Tuesday, October 4, 2022 at The Residence at Alive Hospice in Nashville.
Graveside services were conducted Friday, October 7, 2022 at 2:00 PM in Greenwood Cemetery in Adairville, KY with Rev. Ken Cowan officiating. Pallbearers were Peyton Stanley, Matthew Rodgers, Morgan Javier C. Estrada, Pedro Gomez Perez, Diego Giron Jimenez, and Manuel Giron Perez. Honorary pallbearers will be Chandler Givens, Kasyn Peters, and Landyn Peters. There was no visitation prior to the graveside service.
Bill was born October 16, 1954 in Russellville, KY to the late William L. and Roberta Hardin Miller, Sr. He owned Miller’s Lawn and Landscaping in which he served Robertson County for over thirty years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Lester Wayne Miller
He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Amy Miller Peters and Wood Peters of Myrtle Beach, SC; sister, Belinda M. Rodgers of Adairville, KY; grandchildren, Peyton Stanley, Kasyn Peters, and Landyn Peters; niece, Rebeca Givens of Russellville, KY; nephew, Matthew Rodgers of Auburn, KY; and great nephews, Chase and Chandler Givens.
The family request, if so desired, for memorial contributions to be made to either St. Jude Children’s Hospital or to Alive Hospice. 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 Shelby Eugene Hollis
Shelby Eugene Hollis, 82, of Springfield, passed away on Sunday October 2, 2022, at his home.
Funeral services were conducted Thursday October 6th at 2:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Pastor Curtis Hester officiating. Interment followed in Springfield Memorial Gardens with Navy honors. The family received friends on Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Mr. Hollis was born January 31, 1940, in Nashville to the late Gilmer Eugene and Fannie Williams Hollis. His parents were originally from Henrietta, TN. He was a retired Medic with the U.S. Navy, having served 22 years. During his military career, he served on the Dwight D. Eisenhower and was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal and three Good Conduct Awards. After retiring from the U.S. Navy, he worked as a supervisor at Hale and Cotton in Springfield. Mr. Hollis was a member of Good News Apostolic Church, and he loved sports, especially football and the Tennessee Titans. He loved everyone, especially his family.
Mr. Hollis survived by his wife: Addie G. Perry Hollis of Springfield, by his daughter: Sheila Hollis (John Morris) of Cedar Hill, by his brother: Tommy Hollis of Nashville, by his sisters: Janice (Carnell) Buttrey of Nashville, Shirley (Glen) Freels of Harriman, and Pat (Roger) Cooper of Kentucky, and by 11 stepchildren, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Peggy Sue Beasley
Peggy Sue Beasley, age 79 of Springfield, passed from this life on Thursday, September 29, 2022 at the home of her daughter in May, TX.
Funeral services were conducted Wednesday, October 5, 2022 at 1:00 PM in the Oakhurst Chapel of Robertson County Funeral Home with Gary DiOrio officiating. Burial followed in Springfield Memorial Gardens with Jamie Lemmons, Rick Mitchell, James Giddens, Jody Morrison, Matthew Cobasky, and Mike Harrison serving as pallbearers. The family received friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 4 until 8 PM and Wednesday from 11 AM until the hour of service.
Mrs. Beasley was born July 27, 1943 in Clarksville to the late Buck and Mildred Duke Evans. She was a member of Hopewell Baptist Church and was a seamstress. She was also a member of the Red Hat Society and loved to spend any and every spare minute she had with or doing things for her family.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Cecil Beasley; sisters, Linda Shephard and Barbara Jean Harrison; and son-in-law, Mark Mitchell.
Surviving her are her daughter and sons-in-laws, Annette Mitchell of Springfield, Pam and Denzil Evans of Cedar Hill, and Kaye Beasley and John Stacey of May, TX; brothers and sisters-in-law, William and Wanda Evans, Roy and Kathy Evans, and Jimmy Evans, all of Springfield; sisters, Patsy Tuberville of Church Hill, Margie Crain of Clarksville, and Phyllis Long of Hendersonville; 12 grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren; and a great-great grandson on the way.
The family request, if so desired, for memorial contributions be made to the Rheumatoid Arthritis Foundation. 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 Stanley Crutcher
Alfred Stanley Crutcher, age 92, of the Coopertown Community, passed away Tuesday, October 4, 2022 at his home.
Funeral services were held Sunday, October 16, 2022 at 2pm in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield with Brother Judson Phenicie and Brother David Davis officiating. Burial followed in the Springfield Memorial Gardens with Brian Davis, Garrett Davis, Jonathan Lovings, Sean Crutcher, Scott Lovings, Kevin Davis, Jacob Culwell and Caleb Culwell serving as pallbearers.
Visitation was held at the funeral home on Saturday, October 15, 2022 from 4-8pm and again on Sunday from 12 Noon until the hour of service at 2pm.
Mr. Crutcher was born June 9, 1930 in Springfield, TN to the late Thomas Alfred and Bertrice Ethlea Binkley Crutcher. He worked as a heavy equipment mechanic for many years as well as being a farmer in his younger days, repairing lots of farm equipment over the years. He was very strong in his faith and a member of First Free Will Baptist Church in Springfield where he was very active for many years as a deacon, song leader, and Sunday School teacher. He attended Welch College and was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving in the Korean War.
In addition to his parents Mr. Crutcher is preceded in death by his daughter, Mary Alice Crutcher, his brothers, J.T. Crutcher and Travis Crutcher, his sister, Evelyn Fann, and his great-grandsons, Nicholas and Christopher Lovings.
Mr. Crutcher is survived by his wife of 66 years, Marjorie June Ellis Crutcher; son, Tim Crutcher of Springfield; daughters and sons-in-law, Martha and David Davis of Greenbrier and Lois and Lee Culwell of Greenbrier; grandchildren, Charity (Scott) Lovings, Brian (Sonya) Davis, Kevin (Olessia) Davis, Sean (Rosie) Crutcher, Meagan (Michael) Rogers, Michaela (Jordan) Chandler, Jacob (Ellen) Culwell, Caleb (Ariel) Culwell; great-grandchildren, Jessica (Jason) Lovings-Bilbrey, Jonathan Lovings, Garrett Davis, Madalynn Davis, Aleksander Davis, Travis Rogers, Eleanor Rogers, Audrey Crutcher, Elijah Crutcher, Asher Culwell, and Oliver Chandler; and his sister, Ethel Spiller. He is also survived by several sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, and many nieces and nephews.
A special thank you goes to Mr. Crutcher’s caregivers, Jessica Knight, Delinda Bell, NHC Homecare, and Caris Hospice.
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Welch College. Any donations may be sent in c/o Austin & Bell
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut St, Springfield, TN
Obituary for Russell Lee Yoder
Age 74 of Portland, TN, formerly of Sarasota, FL, went home to be with the Lord Tuesday, October 4, 2022 at Bethany Center for Rehab and Healing. He was born October 16, 1947in Hartville, OH to George and Betty Heckman Yoder. He was self-employed and worked as a home inspector. Russell was an avid golfer and Florida Seminoles fan. He also enjoyed fishing, boating and watching rodeo. He was a member of Abundant Life Church in Sarasota, FL.
He is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Linda Yoder, Portland, TN; sons, Preston (Lisa) Yoder, Bell Buckle, TN and Tim (Sarah) Newsome, Smyrna, TN; daughter, Leigh (Ryan) Booker, Portland, TN; sister, Barbara Elizabeth (Ken) Snyder, Massillon, OH; 6 grandchildren, Madison, Ryleigh, Desirae, Evander, Charlotte and Luke. His first great-grandchild is on the way.
There is a memorial service being planned in FL for Mr. Yoder. This obituary will be updated with the service information as soon as the arrangements are finalized.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House is in charge of these arrangements. 533 Hwy 76E, White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Paul Johnson Jr.
Rudy “Paul” Johnson, Jr., age 52 of Gallatin, Tennessee, died suddenly, Monday, October 3, 2022 at Sumner Regional Medical Center.
A graveside service was conducted at Battle Creek Baptist Church Cemetery in Coopertown at 11AM on Friday, October 7th, with Pastor Carole Dollar officiating. Burial followed with family and friends serving as pallbearers.
The family received friends at the funeral home on Thursday, October 6th from 4:00PM until 8:00PM. There will be no visitation on Friday prior to the graveside service.
Paul was born on August 23, 1970 in Nashville, Tennessee to Joyce Goodrich Goff and the late Rudy Paul Johnson, Sr. He was employed as a security guard. Paul was an avid fisherman and his hobbies included playing guitar, making music, drawing and painting.
In addition to his father, he is preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Pauline Woodside; and his maternal grandparents, Faye Leach & William Goodrich.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by his brothers, Christopher Alan (Misti) Goff and Gary Michael (Nicole) Goff; sisters, Christina Williams and Melissa Pitt; and many loving uncles, aunts, nieces & nephews.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Tennessee Kidney Foundation, 1600 Hayes Street, Nashville, Tennessee 37203.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View is in charge of local arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146
Obituary for Beverly Jane Elliott
Beverly Jane Elliott, age 84, of Cottontown, TN passed away Saturday, October 1, 2022 at Alive Hospice in Nashville.
Funeral services were conducted at 11am Thursday, October 6, 2022 in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home, White House with Bro. Mike Brady officiating. Burial followed in the Halltown Cemetery in Portland, TN with Bud Elliott, Mason Elliott, Michael England, Chris England, Cruz Wedin and Blake Byrd serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers were Jay England and Corey Rocchietti.
The family received friends from 3-7pm Wednesday, October 5, 2022 and again from 10am until the time of service at 11am Thursday at the funeral home.
Mrs. Elliott was born September 3, 1938 in Kentucky to the late Harley and Kextie Threlkel Ballard. She was a U.S. Marine Corp veteran, a homemaker and a member of Halltown Baptist Church. Mrs. Elliott loved and cared for her family deeply, loved camping and the Tennessee Vols.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her twin sister, Barbara Jean Pickett.
Mrs. Elliott is survived by her husband of 61 years, Ralph Elliott Sr.; son, Bud (Christa) Elliott; daughters, Frances (Randy) Lewis and Dee (Ronny) England; and multiple grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House is in charge of these arrangements. 533 Hwy 76E, White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Christopher Gordon Creasy
Christopher Gordon Creasy, age 59, of Cross Plains, passed away Wednesday, September 28, 2022 at his home.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, October 4, 2022 at 4pm in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House with Brother Alan Baggett officiating. In accordance with Mr. Creasy’s wishes his remains were cremated.
Visitation was held at the funeral home on Tuesday from 12noon until the hour of service at 4pm.
Mr. Creasy was born June 20, 1963 in Nashville to the late Paul Creasy, Sr. and Mrs. Alice Faye Burrow Creasy of Cross Plains. He worked as a truck driver, loved his family very much, and was a Christian.
In addition to his mother, Mr. Creasy is survived by his daughter, Kristen “Nikki” Creasy of White House; and his brother, Paul Creasy, Jr. of Cross Plains.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made the Christopher Creasy Memorial Fund. Any donations may be sent in c/o Austin & Bell.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House is in charge of these arrangements. 533 Hwy 76E, White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Heath Andrew Sloan
Heath Andrew Sloan, age 36 of Goodlettsville, passed from this life on Tuesday, September 27, 2022 in Goodlettsville.
Funeral services were conducted Saturday, October 1, 2022 at 1:00 PM in the Oakhurst Chapel of Robertson County Funeral Home with Pastor Brandon Pugh officiating. Honorary pallbearers were Jacob Raines, Hunter Raines, Adam Raines, Brad Pennick, and Brandon Tate. The family received friends on Friday from 4 until 8 PM and Saturday from 10 AM until the hour of service.
Heath was born January 12, 1986 in Nashville. He attended Bethel Baptist Church and was a member of Iron Workers Local 492 Union. He enjoyed building things out of iron and wood and was good at it. He was preceded in death by his father, Glen Sloan.
Surviving Heath are his wife, Ashley Sloan of Goodlettsville; sons, Holden Sloan and Weston Sloan, both of Goodlettsville; daughters, Jada Sloan, Baylee Sloan, and Paisley Sloan, all of Goodlettsville; mother and step-father, Beverly and Steve Tate of Springfield; brother, Stephen Sloan of Springfield; niece, Luna Sloan of Springfield; and nephews, Grant Sloan and Conor Sloan, both of Springfield.
The family request, if so desired, for memorial contributions to be made to the Heath Sloan funeral fund. All donations should be made to Robertson County Funeral Home.
Robertson County Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 2201 Memorial Blvd Springfield, TN 37172
Obituary for Amy Akin-Houck
Amy Marie Akin-Houck, age 25, of Maryville, TN, passed away Thursday, September 29, 2022 at Centennial Medical Center.
Funeral services were held Monday, October 3, 2022 at 1pm in the North Ridge Church in White House. Burial will follow in the White House Memorial Gardens with Noah Houck, Aaron Akin, Christian Adams, James Bloodworth, Brandon Mooney, Cody Houck, Tristian Roberts and Michael Miller serving as pallbearers.
Visitation was held on Sunday, October 2, 2022 at the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House from 1-4pm and at the church on Monday from 11am until the hour of service at 1pm.
Mrs. Akin-Houck was born February 14, 1997 in Hendersonville to Neil and Renee Rist Akin. She graduated from White House Heritage High School in 2015 and graduated from Austin Peay in 2019. She worked as a special education teacher at Sterchi Elementary School in Knoxville and was a member of North Ridge Church.
Mrs. Akin-Houck is preceded in death by her grandparents, Albert and Mary Ruth Akin; uncle, Eddie Bloodworth; great0-aunt and uncle, Betty and George Bloodworth; grandfather-in-law, Bobby Edwards, and grandmother-mother-in-law, Barbara Houck.
She is survived by her husband, Noah Houck; parents, Neil and Renee Risk Akin; brother and sister-in-law, Aaron and Christina Akin; sister and brother-in-law, Amanda and Christian Adams; grandparents, Dot Bloodworth Rist, Wallace “Buddy” Houck, and Gail Edwards; mother and father-in-law, Jeannie and Chris Houck; brother-in-law, Cody Houck and wife, Emily; sister-in-law, Hannah Mooney and husband, Brandon; niece, Lily Houck; nephew, Eli Houck; and fur baby, “Koda Bear” Houck.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House is in charge of these arrangements. 533 Hwy 76E, White House, TN 37188
Obituary for Gene Spencer
Hubert Eugene Spencer “Gene”, age 92, of Pleasant View, Tennessee, died Monday, September 26, 2022 at his home.
Burial was in the Erick Cemetery in Erick, Oklahoma. Funeral services are pending at this time.
Mr. Spencer was born on January 9, 1930 in Magic City, Texas to the late Stanford R. & Lela M. Lowe Spencer. He was a retired electrical lineman and served in the United States Air Force. He was of the Baptist faith.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Alethia; and brothers, Roy Dale, Alvah, and Phillip.
Survivors include his sister, Brunetta Toon; step-son, George; and numerous nieces & nephews.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View is in charge of local arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146
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