Obituaries: Week of July 6, 2025, In Loving Memory
ROBERTSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE:
(Smokey Barn News)
*Refresh this page for updates and newly listed obituaries for this week.
Kathryn Nancye Gorodetzky
August 23, 1960 — July 4, 2025
White House, Tennessee
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kathryn Gorodetzky on July 4, 2025, at the age of 64. She passed away peacefully and was surrounded by loved ones. A loving and dedicated mother, and cherished grandmother, Kathryn leaves behind a legacy of kindness and compassion that will be remembered by all who knew her. Born on August 23, 1960, Kathryn will be remembered for her kind heart and jovial sense of humor. Her infectious laughter and warm smile were truly a beacon of joy for her family and friends. Kathryn raised four beautiful children, who brought her immeasurable pride. She will be deeply missed but forever revered for her unwavering love and the countless lives she touched.
Kathryn was a paragon of strength and love with a vibrant and witty sense of humor. Her playful, goofy side endeared her to family and friends, making her a beloved figure in their lives. She always selflessly put her loved ones first, going above and beyond to do anything she could for others.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert Hutchinson Sr. and Eleanor Hutchinson; her brothers, Robert Hutchinson Jr. and Jimmy Hutchinson; and her sisters-in-law, Nikki Hutchinson-Crowder and Connie Hutchinson.
Kathryn is survived by her children, Erica Koschmider, R Nico Gorodetzky, Philip Gorodetzky (Julie), and Justin Gorodetzky, who carry forward her legacy. She is also cherished by her grandson, Benjamin Koschmider, who will remember her fondly; survived by two other grandchildren whom she loved, Mark and John Gorodetzky. Kathryn is further survived by her siblings, Rick Hutchinson, Patty Hutchinson-Crowder, Gary Hutchinson (Katherine), Scott Hutchinson (Sue), and Lynette Conquest (Richard).
Family and friends will gather to celebrate Kathryn’s remarkable life on July 19th at Gracepark Church in White House, TN, from 11 A.M. to 3 P.M. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Gerald D. Metcalf
May 16, 1944 — June 29, 2025
Springfield
Gerald D. Metcalf, a talented musician, songwriter, and entrepreneur, passed away on June 29, 2025, in Nashville, TN, at the age of 81. Born on May 16, 1944, in Big Rapids, MI, Gerald lived a life marked by creativity, passion, and a strong spirit.
From early in his life, Gerald embraced music, using it as a canvas for his thoughts and emotions. He dedicated himself to his craft as a musician and songwriter, a pursuit that brought joy not only to himself but also to those around him. His artistic talents extended beyond music; later in his career, he founded a mobile leather and vinyl repair business which showcased his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. In addition to his business ventures, Gerald explored his creative side by designing and crafting knives and walking canes, further reflecting his artistic flair. Aside from his strong work ethic, he also was an avid hunter and enjoyed spending time outdoors.
Gerald’s personality was a vibrant tapestry of strength and humor; he was strong-willed and personable, often lightening the mood with his witty sense of humor. His playful, goofy side endeared him to family and friends, making him a beloved figure in their lives.
Gerald honorably served in the United States Marines for three years during the Vietnam War.
He joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in July 1975 and served in various leadership positions over the years. He was a man of strong faith and shared that through his service to others and music by occasionally singing hymns for the congregation.
Gerald is survived by his children, Michele Denise Jones (Chris), Yvonne Lee Burnett (Reggie), Joshua Jeremy Metcalf, Adam Douglass Metcalf (Devrie), and Janie-Marie Claire Sapon (David), who carry forward his legacy. He is also cherished by his fifteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, all of whom will remember him fondly. Gerald is further survived by his siblings, Bonnie Eastmen and Dewey Metcalf, Jr.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nancy Lee Metcalf, his son, Christopher Gerald Metcalf, his parents, Dewey Edward Metcalf, Sr. And Marion Marie Metcalf; and brother, Allen Ray Metcalf.
Family and friends will gather to celebrate Gerald’s remarkable life on July 12, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home and Cremation Services in White House, TN. As we remember Gerald, we honor his spirit and the indelible mark he made on the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him. His music and legacy will resonate forever.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Margaret Elaine Legge
April 22, 1945 — July 7, 2025
Margaret Elaine Legge, a cherished mother and beloved sister, passed away on July 7, 2025, at the age of 80. Born on April 22, 1945, in Nashville, Tennessee, Margaret was a spirited individual with a vibrant personality that lit up every room she entered.
A devoted professional, she dedicated a significant part of her life to her career in retail. Margaret’s journey began at Castner Knotts, followed by service in retail, where she would stay for roughly 40 years. She stayed through various changes in companies, and demonstrated unwavering determination and skill. As she climbed the ranks, she ultimately managed an entire retail floor by herself. Her love and deep knowledge of fashion were evident throughout her successful career, particularly during her time spent working for Better Dresses & Designer. Friends and family always knew they could count on her for fashion advice.
Margaret was an outgoing individual who had a delightful ability to make everyone feel comfortable in her presence. Described as the life of the party, she had a remarkable knack for engaging in joyful conversations, whether with her family or the nurses who took care of her in her later years. Despite her many responsibilities, she remained a caring and loving woman who genuinely enjoyed life. She created countless memories with her family, often playfully keeping her brothers in line.
An avid lover of the outdoors, Margaret found joy in gardening, spending her evenings lovingly nurturing her plants whenever she managed to find free time. She was also passionate about cooking and collected dozens (if not hundreds) of cookbooks. Additionally, Margaret had a fondness for entertainment, boasting an impressive collection of DVDs and VHS tapes. Her love for animals was evident throughout her life, as she cared for numerous dogs and later began adopting street cats.
Margaret is survived by her son, Jeff Legge, and her three brothers, Albert (Jan) Walden, Steve (Sharon) Walden, and Stuart (Pam Nolan) Walden. She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Dorris Walden, and her beloved husband of 58 years, Edward Legge.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at NHC Place at The Trace, Caris Healthcare, and Cole & Garrett Funeral Home for their compassionate care of Ms. Margaret.
Margaret Elaine Legge will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her warmth, strength, and the joy she brought to those around her.
Visitation will be held on July 13, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM and again on July 14, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home & Cremation Services located at 127 N Main St, Goodlettsville, TN 37072. A funeral service will follow on July 14, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, leading to her interment at Greenbrier Cemetery at 1:00 PM.
At this time, the family has requested that you do not send flowers.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Karen Couts
June 19, 1965 ~ July 3, 2025
60 Years Old
Karen Denise Couts, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away surrounded by her family and wrapped in their love. Born on June 19, 1965, in Springfield, Tennessee, Karen was the cherished daughter of Barbara McLean. Her life was one marked by unwavering love, joyful laughter, and deep devotion to those she held close.
Karen was married to the love of her life, Robert “Bobby” Lee Couts Jr., with whom she built a beautiful family and shared a lifetime of memories. Together they raised five children, who were the pride and joy of her life: Justin (Emily) Couts, Joshua (Patricia) Couts, Jordan (Derek) Osborne, Sarah (Jared) Wood, and Cody Hulsizer.
Nothing brought Karen more joy than her role as “KK” to her grandchildren: Abigail Couts, Tucker Osborne, JR Couts, Addison Osborne, Easton Couts, Ellington Couts, Matthew Couts, Emerson Wood, and Benny Hulsizer. Being KK was her favorite title and she embraced it with boundless love, fierce protection, and a never-ending presence in their lives. She could always be found cheering them on from the sidelines, attending performances, and celebrating their every success.
Karen had a passion for travel—especially to the mountains, where she found joy in holiday shopping adventures and discovering the best bargains. She loved to give gifts as much as she loved receiving them, and her thoughtfulness left a lasting mark on those lucky enough to be on the receiving end.
She was the baby sister to Pam (Dale) Hardy and a treasured aunt and great-aunt to many nieces and nephews, always generous with her time, affection, and that unforgettable smile that could light up any room. Her family was her home, her purpose, and her greatest joy.
Karen’s legacy is one of fierce loyalty, infectious joy, and unconditional love. She will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her commitment to family, and her unwavering support of those she loved most. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the love she gave so freely will live on in each life she touched.
A celebration of Karen’s life will be held Tuesday, July 8th at 11:00, visitation will be Monday from 4-8 at The Robertson County Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Orlinda Baptist Church, and the family asks that you hug your loved ones a little tighter, cheer a little louder, and find joy in the little things—just like KK did.
Services have been entrusted to Robertson County Funeral Home
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John Denning
September 5, 1955 ~ July 3, 2025
69 Years Old
John Stephen Denning, age 69 of Orlinda, passed from this life on Thursday, July 3, 2025 at Skyline Medical Center. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at 11:00 AM in the Oakhurst Chapel of Robertson County Funeral Home with Rev. David Dean and P.W. Denning officiating. Burial will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery with P.W. Denning, A.J. Reynolds, Buddy Sneed, Frankie Wells, Jeff Yates, and Joe Wilkinson serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 4 until 7 PM and Wednesday from 8 AM until the time of service.
John was born September 5, 1955 in Franklin, KY to the late Paul Henry “Pete” and Mildred Gloria “Monk” Steen Denning. He was a farmer and truck driver and was an avid Tennessee Volunteer fan. He was also an avid softball player and enjoyed playing golf, drinking beer, and joining smart-aleck contest’s while doing all of the above. He will be missed by many. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his son, Shaun Denning, and his grandparents.
Surviving him are his brother and sister-in-law, P.W. and Karen Denning of Adairville, KY; nephew, A.J. Reynolds of Adairville, KY; grandchildren, Sam Myles, Sarah Myles, and Erica Myles; and great-grandchildren, Eli Long and Elli Long.
Services have been entrusted to Robertson County Funeral Home
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Donna (Pulley) Smith
December 16, 1949 ~ July 7, 2025
75 Years Old
Donna Lee Pulley Smith, 75, of Springfield, TN passed on to eternal life with Jesus Christ on Monday, July 7, 2025, at her home. She spent her final weeks enjoying many visits from loved ones after suffering a heart attack on May 30th.
Donna was born December 16, 1949, in Springfield, TN to the late Howard David and Nell Posey Fletcher Pulley. She grew up in the Neely’s Bend area of Madison before settling in the Barren Plains community of Robertson County.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her three brothers: Howard David Pulley, Jr., John William Pulley, and Don Henderson Pulley, as well as her husband of 25 years, Barry E. Smith, originally from Virginia and lovingly known as “Pa” to his family.
Donna is survived by her sons: David Chad (Angie) Shelton of Greenbrier and Bryan Bayard (Kendra) Shelton of Springfield; by her stepsons: Jeff Smith and Clay (Sheila) Smith of Portland; by her sister: Cindy (Harold) Joyce of Springfield; by her sisters-in-law: Debbie Pulley of Springfield and Jackie Pulley of Jacksonville, FL; by her grandchildren: Aaron (Taylor) Shelton of Greenbrier, MacKenzie (Brixton) Adkerson of Springfield, Elijah (Hope Tinsley, fiance) Shelton of Pleasant View, Morgan (Jackson) Mapes of Greenbrier, and Isaac Shelton of Cedar Hill; by her step grandchildren: Justin and Jenna Smith; by her great-grandchildren: Easton Shelton and the soon-to-be-born: Brooks Adkerson; by several nieces, nephews, and by life-long friend: Marion Jane Richardson; as well as many more precious friends like family.
Donna was most affectionately known as “Ma.” Her first grandson, Aaron, gave her this name when she was 45 years old. “Ma” always thought the name made her sound “like a 90-year-old grandma with no teeth!” She proudly wore the name anyway and everyone could see that being a grandmother fulfilled her. Donna allowed the grandchildren to do anything and everything fun…crafts, cards, blocks, games, puzzles, sports, finger painting, Legos, sleepovers, movies, books, she had an imagination like no one else! If we had written down all the stories and games she could create, we would be millionaires, instead, we simply treasure all of these priceless memories.
Donna’s favorite color was pink – she loved anything pink. She also loved flowers, of every kind, and could grow about anything. She was always cooking and cooking well. No visit was complete to Ma’s house without being offered something to eat before you left. More often than not, it was something sweet, even though she couldn’t eat it herself as a diabetic. She loved for everyone to squeeze around the dining room table for as long as possible until the family simply overflowed the room. Even then, she still wanted everyone to just be there together, and as often as possible.
If you ever received a gift from Donna, it would be wrapped like a show piece. She liked making homemade cards, decorating for every occasion, autumn weather, going to the mountains, and Christmas. She would have kept her Christmas tree out all year round, if given the choice. Donna always worried about how things looked, in spite of having lost vision completely in one eye and barely being able to see out of the other. She enjoyed playing cards, working puzzles, reading books that “no one else would like”, and watching old movies. Donna fully embraced the crazy antics of her children and grandchildren and would laugh along even when they picked on her. There are stories of her mowing the front porch and launching pancakes across the room!
Donna was an amazing Bible teacher. For many years she spent countless hours each week in research, study, and prayer before teaching a lesson at church. She served at Barren Plains Baptist Church for most of her adult life. Later on, in spite of her declining health and losing the ability to drive, she was still a valiant prayer warrior and trusted confidant to many. She would listen well, then intercede, and offer wise advice if asked. She loved God, loved Jesus, and she always loved others well. Although she will be missed on this earth, she would want each one reading this to trust Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and look forward to seeing her again in Heaven one day. We trust she is rejoicing in her reconciliation with loved ones that have gone on before, and that she will be watching over us in that “great cloud of witnesses” until we see her again.
A Celebration of Donna’s life will be held on Friday, July 11th at 3:00 p.m., at Barren Plains Baptist Church with Pastor Adam Hodges officiating. The family will receive friends at Barren Plains Baptist Church from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.
If so desired, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to My Father’s House or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Donna’s memory.
Services have been entrusted to Robertson County Funeral Home
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Wayne Lee Wilkinson
December 3, 1944 – July 2, 2025
Wayne Lee Wilkinson, age 80, of White House, TN, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 surrounded by his family. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence Lanier Wilkinson and Joanne Conley Wilkinson; four brothers, Joe Wilkinson Brodie Wilkinson, Odie Wilkinson and Floyd Wilkinson. Wayne is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 61 years, Wanda Jean Walrond Wilkinson; his four children, Richard Wilkinson, Murfreesboro, TN, Karen (Eric) Allison, Springfield, TN, David (Joy) Wilkinson, Hendersonville, TN and Jennifer (Ashley) Smith, White House, TN; nine grandchildren, Zack (Liz) Allison, Lauren (Greg) Cotten, Evan Allison, Christian (Kaitlyn) Wilkinson, Brennan Wilkinson, Braelyn Wilkinson, Britton Wilkinson, Maura Smith and Andy Smith; three great-grandchildren, Stella Cotten, Tate Cotten and Maverick Allison.
Wayne was a proud veteran of the Army National Guard. and was a faithful member of Temple Baptist Church. The greatest joy in his life was his children and grandchildren. He cherished spending time with them. He prided himself in working hard and he left a remarkable impression on all those who had the privilege to know him. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family and friends and he will be dearly missed.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, July 6, 2025 from 3-6PM at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House, TN and again on Monday, July 7, 2025 beginning at 9am at Temple Baptist Church. Funeral service will be held on Monday, July 7, 2025 at 10am at Temple Baptist Church 117 Marlin Road White House, TN 37188, with Pastor H.D. Jones officiating. Interment will following in White House Memorial Gardens with Evan Alison, Zack Allison, Greg Cotten, Gene Lanius, Andy Smith, Brennan Wilkinson, Britton Wilkinson and Christian Wilkinson serving as pallbearers and with military honors. Honorary pallbearers will be Good News Connect Class of Temple Baptist Church. ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 37188 (615)672-5000 www.austinandbell.com
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Daniel “Danny” James Poole
May 30, 2006 – July 3, 2025
Daniel “Danny” James Poole, age 19, of Orlinda, left this world on Thursday, July 3, 2025. Funeral Services will be Thursday, July 10, 2025 in the Chapel of Austin and Bell Funeral Home in Springfield at 1:30pm with Kristen Wilcox officiating. Burial will follow in Jake Link Cemetery in Cottontown with Shane Carroll, Steve Rahman, Gavin Blair, Colton Cline, David Poole, Dalton Pool, Dillon Poole and Landon Smith serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, prior to the service from 10:00am – 1:30pm.
Danny was born May 30, 2006, in Bowling Green, Kentucky to Jimmy Larry Poole, Jr. and Amanda Denise Sortini. Though his time with us was far too short, he lived every moment to the fullest. A beloved son, fiancé, brother, grandson, and nephew, Danny had a heart as big as his laugh and a spirit that lit up every room. He loved fast vehicles, loud trucks, and anything with an engine that roared. He worked hard every day, carrying himself with a maturity beyond his years, yet never lost the joy of being a “cut-up” – always smiling, laughing, and making others do the same.
He was fiercely loyal to his family – his mom and dad, his bonus mom and dad, his brothers, sisters, grandparents, aunt and uncle – and he cherished the love he shared with his fiancé. Danny was finding his relationship with God. His presence brought warmth, his jokes brought laughter and his energy made memories that will last forever.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Larry Poole Sr., great-grandmother, Honey Hill and nephew, Kayden Wayne.
Along with being survived by his parents, Danny is survived by his bonus parents; Shane and Ashley; fiancé, Chelsey Carroll; brothers, David Poole, Dalton Poole, Dillon Poole, Gavin Blair, Colton Cline, and Landon Smith; sisters, Brittany Frey, Laura Stankus, Monica Carroll; his cousin, Ditto; Uncle Steve and Aunt Sherry; grandmothers, Hope and Denise; and his 2 dogs, Nemo and Fluffy and cat, Milo.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. www.austinandbell.com
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME- 509 WALNUT STREET, SPRINGFIELD, TN (615) 384-1000
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Linda Lawing
July 8, 1947 – July 4, 2025
Linda Jane Lawing, age 77 of Pleasant View, Tennessee died Friday, July 4, 2025, at her home.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 o’clock am, Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View with her grandson, Bro. Jackson Watts officiating.
Burial will follow at EverRest of Cheatham with family and friends serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 10:00AM until the hour of service at 11:00AM.
Mrs. Linda was born on July 8, 1947 in Canton, North Carolina to the late Roy & Ruth Queen Duckett. She was a retired bookkeeper, was an accomplish cake decorator, an avid reader, and loved her grandchildren. She attended New Hope Free Will Baptist Church.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband Rev. Steve Lawing; and brother, Jerry Duckett.
She is survived by a son, Sam (Kim) Lawing; daughters, Kelly Lawing and Stephanie (Taylor, III “J.J.”) Watts; grandchildren, D.J. (Lori) Brown, Savannah Watts, Jackson Watts, Annie Lawing, Caroline Watts, Mazzy Lawing, Kaia Lawing, Decklyn Lawing and Rylan Lawing; and great-grandchild “on the way” Ezra Brown.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146 (615) 746-4433 www.austinandbell.com
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Wells
October 7, 1940 – July 6, 2025
Donald Ray Wells, age 84, of Roanoke, Virginia, died Sunday, July 6, 2025, at his son’s residence in Pleasant View, Tennessee.
Mr. Wells was born on October 7, 1940, in Roanoke to the late Roy & Ruby Hartman Wells. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force and was retired after many years from Lewis Gale Medical Center. He also worked as a policeman, deputy sheriff, data coordinator, and brakeman & conductor with the railroad.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, Michael Wells; and sister, Shirley McCoy.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Linda Wells; sons, Gregory (Jessica) (William) (Robin) Wells and Jay (Christine) Wells; brothers, Sonny (Carolyn) Wells, Toby (Nancy) Wells, Sandy (Sue) Wells, and Skip (Pam) Wells.
His remains will be cremated and no services are planned at this time.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146 (615) 746-4433 www.austinandbell.com
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Eddie Long
December 14, 1950 – June 9, 2025
James Eddie Long, 74, of Springfield TN, passed away in his home, June 9, 2025, surrounded by his family. Eddie is survived by his wife of 53 years, Jean, daughter Kim, son Shane (Angie), grandsons Jackson and Andrew, siblings Paula Long, Paul/Moto, Carolyn (Tim) Kelly, Shelia (Randy) Hurst, Robert (Maureen), a multitude of nieces and nephews, mother-in-law Josie Knight, sister-in-law Marlene Henley. Proceeded in death by Paul and Marie Long, siblings Paul Jr, Ralph, Paulette Young, Diane Jones, and Ann Marie Henderson.
Eddie was of Baptist faith. He loved fishing with his grandsons and having contests. He enjoyed traveling the back roads looking at all the wildlife and farm animals. While out on his recycling trips he never met a stranger. He treated all his friends and neighbors as part of his family.
Please join us in celebrating Eddie’s life on Tuesday, July 8th, 2025, at Rock Springs Baptist Church in Greenbrier from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. In lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
This obituary brought to you courtesy of by Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield. www.austinandbell.com
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME 509 WALNUT STREET, SPRINGFIELD, TN (615) 384-1000
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