Obituaries: Week of October 4, 2026, In Loving Memory
ROBERTSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE:
(Smokey Barn News)
*Refresh this page for updates and newly listed obituaries for this week.
Yolanda (Gibbs) Reid
September 8, 1953 ~ September 30, 2026
73 Years Old
Yolanda Gibbs Reid, 73, a lifelong resident of Robertson County, passed away September 30, 2026, following a short battle with cancer.
Born September 8, 1953, to Richard Maurice Gibbs and Ruth Brown Gibbs, Yolanda devoted her life to her family, her community, and the preservation of Robertson County history.
Yolanda began her career with the Robertson County Archives in 1982 and served as its Director for 37 years before retiring in 2019. She served as Robertson County Historian from 1989 until her death. A respected historian, genealogist, archivist, and published author, she helped countless families and researchers discover and preserve their own histories. In recognition of her lifelong work, the Robertson County Archives was recently named the Yolanda Reid Memorial Archives of Robertson County in her honor.
Yolanda was a proud member of the Charlotte Reeves Robertson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and various historical and archival organizations. A devout Christian and deeply patriotic, she believed strongly in preserving history for future generations.
More than anything, Yolanda was giving. She generously shared her time and knowledge with others and loved her family deeply.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard Maurice Gibbs and Ruth Brown Gibbs, and brother, Anthony Gibbs. Yolanda is survived by her husband of 54 years, Joe Reid; daughters Emily Kelley (Josh), Lorelei Pitt (Jimmy), and Carrie Rogers (Lisa); grandchildren Foster Kelley, Nathan Pitt, Gracie Pitt, Micah Callahan and Megan Callahan; and sisters Cheryl Gibbs Binkley (Bill), Farah Gibbs Cook (Mark), and Dawn Gibbs.
Celebration of Life services will be conducted Tuesday October 6th at 11:00 a.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Mark Lowe officiating. A private family burial will be held in the White House Memorial Gardens with Jimmy Pitt, Nathan Pitt, Josh Kelley, and Foster Kelley serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Monday October 5th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Tuesday October 6th from 9:00 a.m. to service time at the funeral home.
In honor of Yolanda’s wishes, she asks that donations be made to the Greenbrier Historical Society building restoration fund or to the DAR Charlotte Reeves Robertson Chapter. All donations may be sent c/o the Robertson County Funeral Home.
Services have been entrusted to the Robertson County Funeral Home.
Libby (Brantley) Nichols
February 25, 1923 ~ October 1, 2026
103 Years Old
Elizabeth “Libby” Brantley Nichols, age 103, of Springfield, passed from this life on Thursday October 1, 2026, at TriStar NorthCrest Medical Center. Graveside services will be conducted Wednesday October 7th at 1:00 p.m. in the Elmwood Cemetery with Dr. David Evans officiating. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Wednesday October 7th from 10:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at the Robertson County Funeral Home.
Ms. Libby was born February 25, 1923, in Springfield, to the late Lunsford and Amy Anderson Brantley. She was a graduate of Springfield High School, and then went on to graduate from Nashville Business College. She began her working career with National Life Insurance Company in Nashville, and then went on to work 60 years for the State of Tennessee as a secretary with the Department of Child Services. Ms. Libby was a 93 year member of Springfield Baptist Church. She loved dancing, playing bridge, and was an avid UT Vols fan. Ms. Libby was a true southern lady that loved her family, her church, and her friends.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands: James Walton and Austin Earl Nichols, whom she loved both dearly, and by her siblings: Lunsford Brantley, Jr., and Grace Brantley Matthews. Ms. Libby is survived by her nephews: Lunsford (Rosalind) Brantley, III of Paris, TN, Clay (Heather) Matthews of Hermitage, by her niece: Carolyn Beth (Pat) McHugh of Germantown, by her stepdaughters: Debby (Ed) New of Charleston, NC, Melissa (Michael) Milton of Knoxville, by her cousin: Rosemary Longmire of St. Simon, GA, by her 4 step grandchildren and 3 step great grandchildren, by her caregivers that she loved and appreciated: Rosemary Graves, Faye Bagwell, and Sandra Ellis, and by many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Springfield Baptist Church Children’s Department and may be sent c/o Robertson County Funeral Home.
Services have been entrusted to the Robertson County Funeral Home.
Hailey Edmund Smith
Oct 26, 1949 — Sep 28, 2026
Goodlettsville, TN
Hailey Edmund Smith, age 76, passed away at his home in Goodlettsville, Tennessee, on September 28, 2026. He was born in Orlando, Florida, and will be remembered as a warm, peaceful, and selfless man whose life was marked by service, devotion, and quiet joy.
A career military man, Hailey served in the United States Army and retired after 21 years of service. He completed three tours in Vietnam and loved his country deeply. His years in uniform reflected the same steadiness and generosity that shaped the rest of his life, and those who knew him understood that helping others came naturally to him. He was always active, always ready to lend a hand, and carried himself with a calm strength that brought comfort to those around him.
Beyond his military service, Hailey found happiness in simple and familiar pleasures. He enjoyed feeding and watching birds and squirrels from his back porch. These quiet moments suited his peaceful nature and reflected the gentle way he moved through the world.
Some of the memories held most closely by those who loved him were made in the company of his family. Skiing with his family in North Carolina at Sugar and Beech Mountain brought him great joy, and another treasured chapter was when his family met him in Germany and they went skiing in Switzerland. These were the moments that stayed close to his heart, because his proudest accomplishment was his family, and he cherished them deeply.
He is preceded in death by his father Lowrey Smith, mother and stepfather Ruth and Melvin Stansberry, brother Steve Smith, and sister Clara Smith. He is survived by his children Chris (Kim) Smith and Stacey (Rickey) Stewart, grandchildren Chase Smith, Sydney (Corbett) Walsh, Carson Smith, Lexie Stewart, and Remington Stewart, and great granddaughter Addison Walsh. He is also survived by his siblings Sandy Pangborne, Wayne Smith, and Tom (Susan) Smith, as well as many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his beloved companion, Ruthy, his dog.
Hailey Edmund Smith leaves behind the memory of a man who served faithfully, loved sincerely, and gave of himself without hesitation. His life was one of duty, kindness, and enduring love, and he will be remembered with gratitude and affection by all who knew him.
Although there are no formal services scheduled for Mr. Smith, the family kindly asks that in lieu of flowers that donations be made to the Nashville Humane Assicoation in memory of Mr. Hailey Smith.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
Bobby Eugene Litchford
Apr 15, 1939 — Sep 28, 2026
Goodlettsville, TN
Bobby Eugene Litchford, born April 15, 1939, in Nashville, Tennessee, passed away on September 28, 2026.
A graduate of Madison High School, Bobby built a long working life as a phone repairman with Western Electric, later AT&T. He worked there for more than 20 years, and those who knew him would recognize the particular way he said the name in full: Western Electric AT&T. It was a small but memorable reflection of the care he brought to the things he knew well.
Bobby was a very relaxed man, both knowledgeable and funny, with a dry but quick wit that stayed with people. He loved reading, especially books on World War II history, and he also enjoyed car magazines, classic and antique cars, and collecting die-cast cars. He was deeply knowledgeable about automobiles and took real pleasure in learning all he could about them. His curiosity reached in many directions. He and his wife, Patricia, shared a deep interest in genealogy and family history, and even before the internet, he traced his family line back to Kent County, England, in the 1300s. He also liked to study religion and its beginnings. When he was not busy, he could often be found exactly where he was happiest—reading a book in his recliner.
A longtime member of Rivergate Church of Christ, Bobby’s faith was an enduring part of his life. One of the accomplishments that meant the most to him was taking his son, and later his grandchildren, to church when they were little. That steady example of devotion and care formed part of the legacy he leaves behind.
Bobby is reunited in heaven with his loving wife Patricia Litchford. He is also preceded in death by his parents Dayton and Mary Litchford, and his brother Maurice Litchford.
He is survived by his son David (Kelley) Litchford, and grandchildren Matthew and Sarah Litchford. He also leaved behind his church family at the Rivergate Church of Christ who helped him in greatly in his time of need.
Family and friends will remember Bobby for his calm presence, his sharp mind, his humor, and the quiet joy he found in learning. His life was marked by faith, curiosity, and the simple comforts he loved most.
Services at this time are tenetatively scheduled and will be posted at a later date. Please check back at a later time for full service information.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home
Linda Gayle Qualls
March 21, 1954 – September 30, 2026
Linda Gayle (Casteel) Qualls, age 72, of Greenbrier, passed away Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at Skyline Medical Center in Nashville surrounded by family. Ms. Qualls’ remains will be cremated and a memorial with family will be scheduled for a later date.
There are no services planned at this time.
Ms. Qualls was born March 21, 1954 in Springfield, TN to the late William John and Mozell Pass Casteel. She was a 1972 graduate of Springfield High School. Ms. Qualls was an operations manager for Walmart Distribution Center for 17 years, and worked as a substitute teacher in her time after retirement. She was beloved by her colleagues and was known as a diligent manager and tenacious employee, often completing tasks that others would avoid.
Ms. Qualls was a faithful Christian and attended First United Methodist Church in Springfield. Ms. Qualls enjoyed antiquing and tending to her plants. She had a heart for all animals and was a Tennessee Volunteers fan. She was an avid supporter of her daughters and grandchildren in all pursuits, showing up to academic ceremonies and extra-curricular performances and games.
In addition to her parents, Ms. Qualls is preceded in death by her brother, William “Mike” Casteel, her sister, Phyllis “Susie” Anderson, and her grandson, Gabriel Jones. Ms. Qualls is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Shawn and Craig Jones of Boerne, TX, and Meranda Qualls-Lambert and Tony Lambert of White House, TN; sister and sister-in-law, Cathy Casteel and Bonnie Maynard; brother-in-law, Steve Anderson; sister-in-law, Melody Casteel; and grandchildren, Bryce Jones, Anna Jones, Eliza Jones, and Carson Jones. She also leaves behind her beloved companion, Coco.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alliance for Paired Kidney Donation, the American Cancer Society, or Critter Fixers. Any donations may be sent in c/o Austin & Bell Funeral Home, 509 Walnut Street, Springfield, TN 37172
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME- 509 WALNUT STREET, SPRINGFIELD, TN (615) 384-1000 www.austinandbell.com
Susan Elizabeth Polen-Zimmerle
September 29, 1947 – October 2, 2026
Susan Elizabeth Polen-Zimmerle, age 79 of Greenbrier passed away Friday, October 2, 2026. Funeral services will be held at 2pm on Friday, October 9th in the chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Greenbrier with John Elmore, Dallas Polen, Ian St. Vincent, Hunter Eden, Andy Griffin, Dwayne Wilson, Martin Schmidt and Derek Dowdell serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Thursday, October 8th from 4pm to 8pm at the funeral home and again on Friday, from 12pm until time of service.
Susan graduated from Two Rivers High School in Donelson, TN and went on to the University of Mississippi and then completed her graduate studies in Education at MTSU. Susan married Wallace Eugene “Gene” Polen and shortly after marriage they moved to Ridgetop, TN in the early 1970’s. They had two children, Troy and Shannon. She started her teaching career at Greenbrier Jr. High School and later on in her career she became the Educator of the Robertson County Schools Challenge Program.
Susan always said that “when you start teaching the grandkids of students you have taught, it’s time to retire”. She absolutely loved being an educator making lifelong connections with so many students.
After losing Gene in a car accident in 1986, she married Charles “Chip” Zimmerle to whom she was married until his passing in 2004.
Susan was preceded in death by her parents, Edward Leo and Elsie Sue Gray and sister, Elsa Norma Gray. Susan leaves behind two children, Troy (Kim) Polen, Shannon (Ginger) Polen; grandchildren, Megan, (Ian) St. Vincent, Dallas Polen, Ella Polen, Breanna Polen, Hunter Eden; greatgrandchild, Milena “Millie” St. Vinent and brother, Larry Gray as well as many wonderful friends who meant so much to her.
She will be remembered for the life she lived, her passion in everything she lived for, from being first Elected Mayor in Robertson County (City of Ridgetop) to the best mother, grandmother “Granny” and friend that anyone could ask for.
She will be deeply missed and her memory will live on through lives she touched as well as in the hearts and minds of students, family and friends.
Online condolences may be made at www.austinandbell.com
Betty Meadows
December 21, 1945 – October 3, 2026
Betty Elizabeth Meadows, age 80 of Kingston Springs, Tennessee passed away Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the Residence of Alive Hospice in Nashville, Tennessee.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 o’clock am, Thursday, October 8th, at First United Pentecostal Church, 7512 Charlotte Pike, Nashville, Tennessee with Pastor Roy Duke officiating.
Burial will follow in the Bluff View Memorial Gardens in Kingston Springs with family and friends serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends at the church on Thursday from 9:00AM until the hour of service at 11:00AM.
Mrs. Meadows was born on December 21, 1945 in Richlands, Virginia to the late James & Helen Cox Tabor. She was a homemaker who loved to take care of her grandchildren whom she loved very much. She taught Sunday School at her church, First United Pentecostal where she has been a member for over 50 years.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband Edward Meadows, Jr.; son, Dave Meadows; and brothers, Jay and Douglas Tabor.
She is survived by her daughter, Tracye (Steve) Rushing; grandchildren, Peyton and Walker Rushing; sister, Dorothy Vencill; daughter-in-law, Amy Stewart; and loving nieces and nephews.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Betty’s memory to: Tupelo Children’s Mansion, 1801 E Main St, Tupelo, MS. 38804
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
Jim Richardson
September 7, 1941 – October 4, 2026
James “Jim” Wayne Richardson, age 85 of Pleasant View, Tennessee passed away Sunday, October 4, 2026 at his home.
Funeral services will be conducted at 1 o’clock pm, Friday, October 9th, at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View with Pastor Brad Shockley and Bro. Michael Duff officiating.
Burial will follow in Springfield Memorial Gardens with Corey Richardson, Nick Richardson, and Leslie Richardson serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 10am until the hour of service at 1:00PM.
Mr. Richardson was born on September 7,1941 in Springfield, Tennessee to the late W.L. “Cheatham” & Dolly Stuard Richardson. He had a career of over 40 years with American General Life and later worked with First Tennessee Bank. He was a member of Pleasant View Baptist Church.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a baby girl, Julie Corinne Richardson; brothers, Curtis Plunket and Winfred Earl Richardson; and sister, Delores Richardson White.
He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Kay Marie Richardson; son, James Lawson (Christine) Richardson; daughter, Jill Beth Richardson; grandchildren, John Lawson and Lauren Ellen Richardson; brothers, Larry Dale (Faye) and Ricky Lane (Barbara) Richardson; and loving nieces and nephews.
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
Roy Wagner, III
August 17, 1982 – September 19, 2026
Roy Edward Wagner, III, age 44, of Clarksville, Tennessee, passed away Saturday, September 19, 2026, at his home.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 o’clock am, Tuesday, October 6th, at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View with Bro. Tom Payne officiating.
Burial will follow in Pleasant View United Methodist Cemetery with family serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 9:00AM until the hour of service at 11:00AM.
Roy was born on August 17, 1982, in Yuma, Arizona, to Roy, Jr. and Carolyn Wagner. He attended Pleasant View Christian School, then worked as an auto mechanic. He loved to fish whenever he got a chance. Roy was loved by many and attended Stroudsville church of Christ.
He is preceded in death by his uncles, John Holloway and Kenneth Holloway.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by his sister, Rebecca (Charles) Warren; and a host of cousins.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made in Roy’s memory to: Barkers Mill church of Christ, 1251 Tiny Town Rd., Clarksville, Tennessee 37042 or HED at NFED.org.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146 (615) 746-4433
