Obituaries: Week of March 30, 2025, In Loving Memory
ROBERTSON COUNTY TENNESSEE:
(Smokey Barn News)
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Elva Jean “Gammie” (Allbert) Rice
July 27, 1944 ~ March 24, 2025 (age 80)
Elva Jean “Gammie” Rice, 80, of Greenbrier, passed from this life on Monday March 24, 2025, at Springfield Heights Assisted Living. Funeral services will be conducted Friday March 28th at 4:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Pastor Jason Jones officiating. Interment will follow in the Mt. Sharon Cemetery with Sterling Edwards, Ty Watts, Shawn Jones, J.K. Graves, Jordan Moore, and Roger Williams serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Donnie Edwards, Rich Saporiti, and Dave Chesnut. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Friday from 1:00 p.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Gammie was born July 27, 1944, in Nashville, to the late Charlie and Clara Bell Strong Allbert. She was a graduate of Pearl Cohn High School Class of 1963. Gammie retired from Coopertown Elementary School as a Special Education Assistant and she was a member of Springfield First United Methodist Church. She loved to travel, boating, and being in the sunshine out by her pool. Gammie’s favorite pastime was being with her family, especially her grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by the love of her life, Samuel Wrenn “Daddy Sam” Rice, who died on February 6th of this year, one day short of their 61st wedding anniversary, and by her sisters: Joyce Graves and Tina McWhorter. Gammie is survived by her daughter: Stacey Rice Moore and husband Jon of Greenbrier, by her son: Scott Rice and wife Heather of Greenbrier, by her grandchildren: Hannah Moulton, Callie Moulton, Jordan Moore, Hayden Rice, and Addie Rice, by her great grandchildren: Wes and Ella Gossage, by her sister: Dianne Cathey, and by her sister-in-law: Elizabeth Rice Williams and husband Roger of Joelton.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to Paradise Ranch in honor of Gammie’s grandson, Hayden. All donations can be sent c/o Robertson County Funeral Home
This obituary is a courtesy of Robertson County Funeral Home.
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Arthur Adrian Shannon
October 15, 1973 — March 19, 2025
Arthur Adrian Shannon, born on October 15, 1973, in Nashville, Tennessee, departed this life unexpectedly at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee, on March 19, 2025. At the age of 51, Arthur’s vibrant spirit and kind heart left a profound impact on all who knew him.
Arthur is survived by his loving parents, Nellie and Mike Shannon; his brother, Micheal Shannon (Kandi); as well as several nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly. He was preceded in death by his brother, Dewayne Ralston.
Arthur was a devoted father to Adrian McCaffery (Austin), Megan Shannon, and his fur baby Bo. He cherished his role as a grandfather to his beloved grandchildren, Orion, Finan, and Alita. Although he is gone his memory will forever reside within them. Recently, Arthur had discovered faith and was filled with excitement as he anticipated the joys of welcoming his new granddaughter into the world. This newfound relationship with God brought him solace and enthusiasm, infusing his days with renewed purpose
An enthusiast of mechanics and vintage treasures, Arthur enjoyed working on cars and took great pleasure in collecting antiques. His passion for helping others shone through in his willingness to lend a hand anytime someone was in need. There was a warmth in the way Arthur connected with people; he had an innate ability to bring smiles to faces and uplift those around him.
Arthur’s proudest accomplishments were undoubtedly his children and grandchildren. He dedicated his life to nurturing them, instilling values of love, kindness, and resilience. His legacy will live on through their memories and the impact he made within their lives.
Please join us in honoring the life of Mr. Arthur Shannon on Saturday, April 12th, 2025, at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home – White House, located at 212 Hwy 76, White House, TN 37188. Family and Friends are welcome to gather at the funeral home from 11am until 1pm. The memorial service for Mr. Shannon will begin at the one o’clock hour.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Melba Joann Holland
March 9, 1934 — March 29, 2025
Nashville, TN
Melba Joann Holland, age 91, of Nashville, TN went to be home with the Lord on March 29th, 2025, after a brief illness. She was born in Smiths Bend, TN on March 9th, 1934. Melba was the daughter of the late Lillian and Horace Armistead. She is also preceded in death by her siblings J.B. Armistead, Jack Armistead, Lester Armistead, Glenda White, and Billy Armistead. Melba is reunited in heaven with her loving husband Jack Holland. Mrs. Holland is survived by many nieces and nephews who cherished her dearly; as well as a number of great and great-great nieces and nephews, who will miss her presence. She is also survived by her church family and friends whom she held close.
Melba Joann Holland was a child of God, who faithfully attended church every Sunday. Attending services was an activity that brought her peace of mind and solace to her heart. She was a prayer warrior, who read the bible daily. She was able to apply its teachings to her life and was able to impart wisdom from its scriptures when she needed it. Melba was also funny and witty, an individual who liked a good joke and cut up with her family and friends. In her free time, she and her husband liked to travel. Her family remembers how much joy their last trip to Alaska brought them and the smile across her face as she would recall people watching at the beach in Miami.
Although she is gone, her memory will forever remain within the hearts and minds of her family and friends. Please join us in honoring the life of Mrs. Melba Joann Holland on Wednesday, April 2nd. 2025 at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home, located at 127 N. Main Street, Goodlettsville, TN 37072, for visitation from 1pm – 2:45pm. We will reconvene and meet at Forest Lawn Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, located at 1150 Dickerson Rd, Goodlettsville, TN 37072, at 3PM for graveside service and interment for Mrs. Holland.
Cole & Garrett Funeral Home are to oversee the arrangements for Mrs. Melba Holland. 127 N. Main Street, Goodlettsville, TN 37072. Phone: (615) 859 – 5231 Online condolences maybe expressed and flowers purchased at coleandgarrett.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
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Floyd Thomas “Tom” Bennett III
February 19, 1952 – March 24, 2025
Tom Bennett, age 73, of Springfield passed peacefully surrounded by his family on March 24, 2025. Tom was a native Nashvillian and proud graduate of the former East High School. He has called Springfield home for more than 40 years. He was a member of Springfield First United Methodist Church and an entrepreneur and business owner.
Tom was preceded in death by his beloved parents Floyd T. Bennett, Jr. and Ruth Bennett.
Tom is survived by his wife, Karron Bennett; his daughters, Stacy Bennett and Lori Bennett (Seth Winsor); his sister, Judy (Wayne) Miller; his stepchildren, Lauren Binkley, Adam Binkley (Amanda Giffi); and Leah (Kyle) Biggs; his grandchildren, Bennett Gourley, Thomas (Kiera) Gourley, Katelyn Gourley, and Callen Biggs; his great grandchildren, Finn, Marlowe, Oliver, and Hayes Gourley; and his nephew, Ben (Beth) Miller.
Tom will be fondly remembered for his booming laugh and sense of humor, his love for animals and the great outdoors, and for always being up for an adventure. He was also a great gift giver, and many laughs were shared over his creative and funny gag gifts over the years!
He was very proud of his daughters and his family. He had many wonderful friends for whom he cared deeply, and his Sunday School class and its members were an important part of his life. Tom was also deeply involved in the LVAD and Heart Transplant community, and he and Karron were so grateful for the many friends made there.
The family wishes to thank the many dedicated medical professionals at St. Thomas West and Alive Hospice who cared for Tom.
Visitation will be Thursday, March 27 from 4:00-8:00 and Friday, March 28 from 11:00-1:00 at Springfield First United Methodist Church. The funeral will be at 1:00 on Friday, March 28 at Springfield First United Methodist Church with Reverend Jason Jones officiating. Burial will immediately follow at the Palestine Methodist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers are Ben Miller, Adam Binkley, Kyle Biggs, Seth Winsor, Josh Blough, and Thomas Gourley. Honorary Pallbearers are The Believers Sunday School Class at Springfield First United Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to Springfield First United Methodist Church in Tom’s memory.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME-
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Nona Mae Lee
April 14, 1930 – March 24, 2025
Nona Mae Lee, age 94, of Springfield, passed away Monday, March 24, 2025 at her home. Funeral services will be conducted at 2pm Thursday, March 27th in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield with Bro. Keith Howell and Bro. Marvin Crouch officiating. Burial will follow in the York Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 4-8pm Wednesday, March 26th and again 12-2pm Thursday, March 27th at the funeral home.
Mrs. Lee was born April 14, 1930, in Springfield, to the late Daniel Noel Highsmith, Sr. and the late Nona B. Fyke Highsmith. Ms. Nona was a homemaker and loved her family and her church dearly.
In addition to her parents, Mrs. Lee was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Earl Lee; grandchildren, Brett Morton, Jada Beth Rice, Jana Lee Rice, and Cassandra Renee Morton; brothers, Jake Highsmith and Noel “JR” Highsmith; and sisters, Eunice Minnis and Omelia Highsmith.
She is survived by her daughters, Sherry (Steve) Morton, Connie Rice, and Sheena (Tim) Roach; 5 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren; and a sister, Ophelia Bethke.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggest, memorial donations be made to: Churches of Christ Disaster Relief Effort, P.O. Box 111180, Nashville, TN 37222-1180 or by visiting www.disasterreliefeffort.org
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME-
509 WALNUT STREET, SPRINGFIELD, TN (615) 384-1000
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Michael Todd Webb
April 29, 1989 – March 24, 2025
Michael Todd Webb, age 35 of Springfield passed away Monday, March 24, 2025 in Madison, TN. He was born April 29, 1989 in Gainesville, FL. He played guitar and composed and arranged music. He did electrical work and was a 2007 graduate of White House Heritage High School. He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Leslie E. & Jane Webb; maternal grandfather, Sherman Lee Meadows. He is survived by his loving parents, Mike and Debbie Webb, Springfield, TN; maternal grandmother, Shirley Meadows; daughter, Evelyn Rose Webb, Donelson, TN; brother, Tyler Lee Webb, Clarksville, TN; 3 aunts.
Funeral service is scheduled for Monday, March 31, 2025 at 1pm in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in White House. Interment will follow in Hillcrest Cemetery with family and friends serving as pallbearers. Visitation is planned for Sunday, March 30, 2025 3-8pm and Monday, March 31, 2025 10am-1pm Memorial contributions would be appreciated to the Evelyn Rose Hoover account at Regions Bank. ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 White House, Tennessee 37188 (615)672-5000 www.austinandbell.com
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Wayne Brown
June 15, 1973 – March 24, 2025
Larry “Wayne” Brown, age 51, of Pleasant View, Tennessee, passed away on Monday, March 24, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee, surrounded by his devoted and loving family.
A Celebration of Life Service will be conducted, with Randy Fuqua officiating, at 1 o’clock pm, Saturday, April 5th, at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View, with family and friends sharing special memories of Wayne.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday, April 5th from 12:00PM until the hour of service beginning at 1:00PM.
Wayne was born on June 15, 1973, in Madison, Tennessee, to the late Larry Thomas Brown and Em Thi Nguyen Brown Tang. He attended White House High School and went on to build a remarkable career as a flooring installer-subcontractor, working tirelessly for 33 years. Wayne’s dedication to his craft was unmatched. From his very first job at 18, installing flooring at St. Thomas West, to returning 25 years later to install updated flooring. Wayne’s work left his “knee print” all across Nashville. It’s hard to find a building in the city that hasn’t been touched by his craftsmanship. But beyond his profession, Wayne cherished the relationships he built with his crew of installers, many of whom had been with him for up to two decades. He often joked that he only took off Thanksgiving and Christmas, proud of the dedication he poured into his work.
While Wayne’s work was important to him, his love for his family eclipsed everything else. He cherished every moment spent with his wife and daughters, finding joy in the simple pleasures of life: fishing, watching football, gun collecting, and enjoying a cozy night at home with a good home cooked meal, a movie, and a bowl of ice cream with his wife.
A football superfan at heart, Wayne was a devoted Steelers fan since the “age of five”, though he always cheered for the Titans too, with a special allegiance to Pittsburgh. He had an uncanny ability to predict plays, stats, and even penalties before they happened, demonstrating his unmatched knowledge and passion for the game.
But perhaps Wayne’s greatest joy came from helping others. He never sought recognition, yet he was always there for his friends, his family, or anyone in need. His kindness and generosity knew no bounds.
Wayne took immense pride in his daughters and their accomplishments. One of his proudest moments was walking his daughter, Olivia, down the aisle on October 5, 2024. He shared a deep bond with his daughter, Hannah, who shared his passion for fishing. They spent countless hours together on the water, with Hannah famously out-fishing both Wayne and his son-in-law, Ross, by just inches on Wayne’s 50th birthday during a deep-sea fishing trip.
Wayne is preceded in death by his father, Larry Thomas Brown; paternal grandparents, Willie Austin and Marie Elizabeth Brown; and his mother-in-law, Shirley Clayborn.
He is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Christina Roddy; his beloved daughters, Olivia (Ross) Shearer and Hannah Roddy (Hadly D.K.); his father-in-law, Terry Clayborn; brother-in-law, Michael (Stacie) Clayborn; stepmother, Judith Brown; and brothers, Peter (Kelly) Tang, David Tang, Shane Brown, and Brian Brown.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the PODS and 5B nurses, techs, and team leaders at Saint Thomas West for their loving, compassionate care and support over the last several months. A special thank you also goes to Kate, Ali, Sammy, Mckenzie, and Lakita at Ascension Saint Thomas Rehabilitation Hospital.
Wayne will forever be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his deep passion for his work, and his generous spirit that touched the hearts of everyone who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made in Wayne’s memory to the Glioblastoma Research Organization at https://fundraise.gbmresearch.org/TeamWB
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View is entrusted with the arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146 (615) 746-4433 www.austinandbell.com
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Greg Gerwitz
June 18, 1961 – March 25, 2025
Gregory “Greg” Lynn Gerwitz, age 63 of Portland, Tennessee, formerly of Ashland City passed away, Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at Signature HealthCare of Portland.
Funeral services will be conducted at 1 o’clock pm, Friday, March 28th, at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View with Bro. Scott Davis & Pastor Benjie Maxson 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 Thursday, March 27th from 5:00-7:00PM, and again on Friday beginning at 12:00 noon until the hour of service at 1:00PM.
Greg was born on June 18,1961 in Cookeville, Tennessee to the late Gordon Lee Gerwitz, Sr. and Georgia Frye Elder. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and was a supervisor for Tennessee Mats for 20 years. He loved to raise horses, cows, and dogs where he ran a horse farm. He also loved to raise roses to sell. He was a jack of all trades and could fix anything. Greg was a man of his word and a Christian.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a brother, Gordon Lee Gerwitz, Jr.
He is survived by his son, James (Rikki) Richards; daughters, April Donnell and Angela Gurley; brother, Chuck (Norma) Elder; twelve grandchildren; and several loving nieces and nephews.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made in Greg’s memory to Hills of Hope in Portland, Tennessee 37148.
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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Barbara Stokes
October 22, 1938 – March 26, 2025
Barbara Anne Stokes, age 86 of Hendersonsville, Tennessee died Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at the American Home Memory Care in Hendersonsville, Tennessee.
Mrs. Stokes was born on October 22, 1938 in Amory, Mississippi to the late Guyton Nash & Lowell Crawford. She was retired after 30 years with the Washington County Sheriffs Department. She played basketball in high school and loved to watch the game in her later years. She loved country and gospel music and all pretty things.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Stokes, and two sisters.
She is survived by her sons, Cameron (Katrina) Stokes, Todd Stokes, and Kevin Stokes; sister, Larue Walden; eight grandchildren; and many nieces & nephews.
Her remains will be cremated and no services are planned.
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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Joshua Ray Gunter
August 7, 1991 – March 26, 2025
Joshua Ray Gunter, age 33 of Springfield passed away Wednesday, March 26th at NorthCrest Medical Center. A Funeral Service will be held Monday, March 31st, 2025 at 6pm in the Chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier. The family will receive friends from 2pm until the hour of service at the funeral home.
Joshua was born August 7, 1991 in Nashville, TN to Raymon Gunter and Vanessa Brown. He is survived by parents, Raymon (Kalita) Gunter and Vanessa (Tim) Brown; daughter, Natalie Gunter; brother, Dyllon Freeman; sisters, Abigail (Michael) Yates, Leah Gunter, Ashley Brown; grandparents, Marcella and Franklin Gunter, Susan and Buddy Young; great-grandmother, Sue Butler; uncle, Tony Butler; aunt’s, DeAnn Gunter, Erin McFerrin and nephew, Drake Brown.
Joshua enjoyed fishing, skateboarding, watching football and playing Little League baseball. in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Joshua’s daughter, Natalie Gunter. Online condolences may be made at www.austinandbell.com
Austin & Bell Funeral Home Greenbrier, 2619 Hwy 41 S., Greenbrier, TN is in charge of arrangements.
(615)643-4000
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Claudia Chamberlain
December 24, 1944 – March 26, 2025
Claudia Jean Chamberlain, age 80, of Clarksville, Tennessee died Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at her home.
A private burial will take place in EverRest of Cheatham in Pleasant View, next to her husband, Ronnie “Butch” Chamberlain who preceded her in death.
Claudia was born in Cody, Wyoming on December 24, 1944 to the late Cecil Wilford & Dorothy Jean Thayer Poe. Like her husband, she was retired from the United States Marine Corps.
She is survived by her “daughter by love”, Melinda Nicholson & husband, Terry; “grandchildren” Crystal Dabney, Brandon & Elizabeth Upchurch, James & Brittany Upchurch, and Samantha Nicholson; eight “great-grandchildren”; special friend, Lisa Scruggs; and her beloved hair stylist, Roxie.
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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Thomas Perry Whitten
February 13, 1938 – March 27, 2025
Thomas Perry Whitten, age 87 of Greenbrier passed away Thursday, March 27th 2025 at his residence. A Graveside Service will be held at 10 AM on Tuesday, April 1st, 2025 at Middle Tennessee Veterans Cemetery, 791 McCroy Lane, Nashville, TN with full Military Honors.
Thomas was born in Greenwood, MS on February 13, 1938 to the late William and Mildred Long Whitten.
He was also preceded in death by his sister, Delores Miller. He is survived by his wife, Berry Vickery Whitten; daughter, Sherol (Jeff Scarborough) Edwards; sister, Alene Goldstein; grand-daughters, Jenna (Terry) Hudson, Whitney (Mark) Kieffner; great grand-children, Jase Warden,, Jayden Warden, Mia Hudson, Ledger Kieffner and Gray Kieffner.
He was retired from the US Air Force with over 21 years service and also worked as a Bus Driver for Gray Line Tours. He enjoyed studying the Nashville Music scene for his tours and he enjoyed fishing. He was a member of Ridgetop Church of God of Prophecy and a member of the Elks Club.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Nashville Veterans Hospital, 1310 24th Avenue S., Nashville, TN 37212-2637. Online condolences may be made at www.austinandbell.com
Austin & Bell Funeral Home Greenbrier, 2619 Hwy 41 S., Greenbrier, TN is in charge of arrangements.
(615)643-4000
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