HAMILTON COUNTY

Minnie Lee Billingsley

Minnie Lee Hennessee Bowman Billingsley, 87, died Tuesday, June 9, 2009, after a long and brave struggle with Parkinson’s disease.

She lived her entire life in Chattanooga except for a brief period when she and her husband Frank C. Bowman were stationed in Kingman, Ariz., with the U.S. Army Air Corps.

She was a graduate of Central High School and Wiley School of Business. Before becoming a homemaker of excellence, she worked at Provident, Chattanooga Free Press and City Hall.

“Mimi” was known for her tender heart and listening ear, gracious hospitality, energetic willingness to help others, her quick wit and her great cooking. She was “second mother” to her children’s friends, always ready to add a little more milk to her creamed chipped beef, pull out one more quart of her famous applesauce, or squeeze one more person into the car for a day at the lake or a week at the beach.

Minnie Lee and Frank were faithful members of Brainerd United Methodist Church and the Friendship Class. Minnie Lee found great joy in teaching kindergarten Sunday School. In fact, spending time with young children and infants always brought a smile to her face, even during the last few years when her ability to move and communicate were greatly diminished. Minnie Lee and Frank enjoyed working in their community, particularly for their children’s public schools.

After Frank’s death, Minnie Lee became a volunteer for Memorial Hospital and also helped form CITE (Cancer Isn’t the End) through her volunteer work with The American Cancer Society. Through these activities, she met her second husband, Don Billingsley, and the two of them continued to serve as volunteers for both organizations.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William Clarence and Minnie Lee Morgan Hennessee; husbands, Frank Cass Bowman and Don Eugene Billingsley; sisters, Ruth Pyle and Edith Graham and brother, Raymond Hennessee.

Survivors are her sister, Frances Bryant; children, Admiral Frank Lee “Skip” (Linda) Bowman, William Lewis “Bill” (Kristy) Bowman and Mary Elizabeth Bowman; grandchildren, Frank Gregory (Kerry) Bowman, Christy Michelle (Dr. Matthew) Mayr, Bethany Kate (Robert) Rittenberry, William Brent (Amanda) Bowman, Kristopher Alexander Bowman and Kacey James Bowman; great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Nathan and Katie Bowman, Christian, Abby and Charlie Mayr; and Layla Bowman; as well as several sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews and her loyal best friend, Nancy Guedron.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Chattanooga for their excellent and compassionate care of our “Mimi” for the past several years. Also a huge thanks to the many devoted caregivers who have loved our mom for more than a decade. Much gratitude is offered to the friends who continued to bless her with their visits, causing her to laugh out loud many times. Laughter is indeed, the best medicine, and she never lost her ability to laugh and enjoy company.

Funeral services will be held Friday at 11 a.m. in the funeral homer chapel with the Rev. J.N. Howard and the Rev. Genevieve DeHoog officiating.

Burial will follow in Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Chattanooga, Brainerd United Methodist Church or an organization of your choice.

Visit www.heritagefh.com to share condolences and view the memorial tribute.

The family will receive friends today from 5:30-8 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. until the hour of the service at Heritage Funeral Home, East Brainerd Road.

Samuel Blair Jr.

Samuel Harrison Blair Jr., 89, of Chattanooga, passed away Monday, June 8, 2009, at Memorial Hospital.

Mr. Blair was a member of Calvary Memorial Baptist Church and a Veteran of the U.S. Navy having served in WWII.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel H. Blair Sr. and Mary Elizabeth Smith Blair; brothers, Fate Henry Blair, James Echol Blair, Robert Frances Blair; sisters, Reba Jane Blair, Eva Marie Blair Daniels, Esther E. Blair Davis, Gladys Blair, all of Knoxville.

He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Elvie Blair; daughter, Debbie Stephenson and husband, Wes; son, Doug McClendon and wife, Marsha; grandchildren, Josh, Lauren, and Kasey Stephenson, Eric and Jason McClendon; and great-grandchildren, Noah Stephenson and Kayla McClendon.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. today at Heritage Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Eric Greeson officiating.

Interment will follow in Chattanooga National Cemetery with Wes Stephenson, Josh Stephenson, Eric McClendon, Jason McClendon, Doug McClendon and Roy Dodd serving as pallbearers.

Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Memorial Baptist Church, 518 Highway 41, Ringgold, GA 30736.

Visit www.heritagefh.com to view the memorial tribute and share condolences.

Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

Michael Boynton

Michael Boynton, 43, passed away Thursday, June 4, 2009, at a local hospital.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Deloris Boynton; and sister-in-law, Brenda Boynton.

Survivors include his father, Alexander Boynton Sr.; sister, Marshall A. Jones, of Atlanta; three brothers, Edward, of Pennsylvania, Alexander Jr., of Chattanooga and Alexis (Anita) Boynton, of Nashville; grandmother, Carrie Boynton; a host of uncles, aunts, cousins and other relatives.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 12, 2009, at John P. Franklin Funeral Home with the Rev. Reginald Poindexter officiating.

Interment in Highland Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 6-7 p.m. today at John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., 622-9995.

Pamela Branum

Hospital Corpsman Senior Chief Pamela A. Branum, USN (FMF) passed away Tuesday, June 2, 2009, while on deployment with the USNS Comfort on humanitarian missions. She had been recently stationed at the Naval Medical Center, Portsmouth, Va., as the Operational Support Officer, Senior Enlisted Leader to the Director of Administrations.

Senior Chief Branum proudly served her country from September 1986 until June 2, 2009. Senior Chief’s service includes Camp Pendleton Hospital; Guam Hospital; Staff Instructor, Chemical and Biological Warfare Team Camp Lejeune, N.C.; March 2003 deployment to Iraq; Guantanamo Bay, Cuba with the Joint Chief of Staff; and Pensacola Naval Hospital.

She touched the lives of countless sailors and marines all over the world with an exceptional ability to deeply inspire others with her seemingly endless abilities and personality. She loved her family and friends dearly and will be greatly missed by all.

She was preceded in death by grandfathers, Thomas E. Branum and Edward Dee Hargis.

She is survived by her parents, Larry Branum and Claudette Wade; sister, Rhonda Keith, and her husband, Lane Keith; brothers, Chris Wade and Todd Branum; nephew, Kirian Keith, stepbrother, David Green; grandmothers, Martha Branum-Flowers and Betty L. Hargis, and many aunts, uncles, cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. today, June 11, 2009, at Oakwood Baptist Church, located on Bonny Oaks, Highway 153, Chattanooga, with Chaplain Cynthia Kane officiating.

Interment will be in Arlington Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation be made in honor of Senior Chief Branum to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, 875 North Randolph St., Ste. 225, Arlington, VA 22203.

Arrangements are made by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, TN 37343.

Charles Couch

Charles T. Couch, 77, of Hixson, passed away on Wednesday, June 10, 2009.

Charles was born in Soddy and has been a longtime resident of the Chattanooga area. He served our country during the Korean War serving in the U.S. Army. He retired from Marshall Mize Ford. Charles was a member of Dallas Bay Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Blanche Crest Couch; and a brother, Sam Couch.

Charles is survived by his wife of 29 years, Anna Couch; six children, Terry (Wade) Crews, Marian Rosenvinge, Michael Couch, Wyndy (Richard) Metcalf, Cheryl Ann Miller and Cheryll (Bill) Bruning; six grandchildren, Jonathan Miller, Alex Cawood, Hannah Rosenvinge, Tessa (Dustin) Shropshire, Breanna and Samantha Metcalf; and two great-grandchildren; sisters, Evelyn (Harry) Kelley and Martha (Mac) Flowers; several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. today and 9 to 10 a.m. Friday at the North Chapel.

Services for Charles will be held at 10 a.m. Friday at the North Chapel with Dr. David McNabb officiating.

Burial will follow in National Cemetery with Norman Bookout, Bill Bruning, Tom Castleman, Alex Cawood, Rick Bynum and Ed Hudson serving as pallbearers.

Honorary pallbearers will be Vernon Stacey, Mac Flowers, Jonathan Miller, Carl Spain, Richard Metcalf, Walter Alley and Wade Crews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Research Department at American Cancer Society, 6221 Shallowford Road, Suite 102, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.mem.com.

Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist.

Nathaniel Edwards Sr.

Nathaniel Edwards Sr., 83, went home to be with the Lord, Sunday, June 7, 2009.

He attended Chattanooga Public Schools. He was self-employed. He served his country with the U.S. Army during World War II.

Nathaniel was preceded in death by his parents, Cleveland and Essie Few Edwards; one sister, Rosetta Edwards; one brother, Cleveland Edwards; one brother-in-law, Ernest Vaughn Sr.; two nephews, Darrell Richardson Sr., and Ernest Vaughn Jr.; and his first wife and mother of his son, Mattie L. Edwards.

He leaves to cherish with unforgettable memories, a devoted and loving son, Nathaniel (Jackie) Edwards Jr., of Chattanooga; one loving brother, Alphonso Edwards, Atlanta; three loving sisters, Sarah Vaughn, Reba Edwards and Willie Mae Lawson, all of Chattanooga; two granddaughters, LaTrice D. Edwards, of Chattanooga and LaToya S. Edwards, of Huntsville, Ala.; great-grandson, Tahji S. Campbell, of Chattanooga; one sister-in-law, Margaret Edwards, of Chattanooga; two special friends, Sylvia Cochran and Teresa McShan; a host of nieces and nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, June 12, 2009, at John P. Franklin Funeral Home with Rev. Harold K. Lester officiating. Interment in National Cemetery.

Visitation after noon today at John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., 622-9995.

Annette Hixson

Annette Jenell Hixson, 82, of Sale Creek, died Monday, June 8, 2009.

Funeral services today at 8 p.m. in the funeral home chapel.

Graveside services 11 a.m. Friday in Hixson Cemetery, Bledsoe County.

Visitation after 5 p.m. today at Vanderwall Funeral Home.

Visit the on-line guest register at www.vanderwallfh.com.

Bret Huffman

Bret Allen Huffman, 32, of Chattanooga, passed away Monday, June 8, 2009, in Granger, Ind.

He is survived by his wife, Ashleigh M. Greenwell Huffman, of Chattanooga and his parents, Steve and Nancy Weeks Huffman, of Granger.

Bret worked as a carpenter and was an avid hiker, scuba diver, camper and world traveler. Bret attended Ooltewah and graduated from Notre Dame High School.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Joshua Steven Huffman; and maternal grandfather, Ora Weeks.

Other survivors include two sisters, Jennifer (Fraser) Coffeen, of Chicago, and Cara Huffman, of Fischers, Ind.; maternal grandmother, Barbara Weeks; and paternal grandparents, Leslie and Jane Huffman, all of Edwardsburg, Mich.; his father and mother-in-law, Allen and Rebecca Greenwell, of Chattanooga; three sisters-in-law, Amber Greenwell, of Chattanooga, April (Jet) Heng, of Hilo, Hawaii, Amanda (Brian) Cowan, of Chattanooga; a brother-in-law, Allen Greenwell, of Chattanooga; two nephews and a niece.

Arrangements were handled by McGann-Hay Funeral Home and A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Christ the King Catholic Church, Granger, Ind.

Local announcement is being made by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga.

David Litz

David Graham Litz, 87, of East Ridge, passed away Tuesday morning, June 9, 2009.

David grew up on a family farm in Morristown, Tenn. After graduating from high school he learned surveying and heavy equipment operation working for the Tennessee Valley Authority. During World War II he was a Navy Seabee, serving in Alaska and Japan. After the war he returned to Tennessee, married his sweetheart Eloise Parker, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from the University of Chattanooga. He was a mathematics teacher at Chattanooga Central High School and attended graduate school at Peabody College in Nashville.

David was a deacon at Ridgedale Baptist Church and more recently was an active member of First Baptist Church. He was a member of American Legion Post 159 and the Freedom’s Foundation, and he continued to travel to his Seabee reunions throughout the years.

David possessed the keen analytical mind of a mathematician and engineer, the generous heart of a true neighbor, the curiosity of an archaeologist, and the quick wit of a court jester. He drew complete strangers into conversation on street corners, in restaurants and in grocery store aisles, and turned them into friends. He will be greatly missed by the countless people whose lives he touched.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Cora Freeman Litz; and by his brother, Howard Litz.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Eloise, with whom he celebrated life and love for more than 63 years. He is also survived by his daughter, Nancy Litz Oliver, his son-in-law, Steve Oliver, his grandchildren, Kathryn Oliver Wierwille and David Oliver, and great-grandchild, Sara Kathryn Wierwille.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to First Baptist Church at 401 Gateway Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37402.

Visit www.heritagefh.com to share condolences and view the memorial tribute.

The family will receive friends at Heritage Funeral Home on East Brainerd Road from 6 to 8 p.m. today, June 11.

A second visitation will take place at First Baptist Church from 11 a.m. to noon on Friday.

The funeral service will follow at noon.

Interment will take place at 1 p.m. at Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, East Brainerd.

Sam McAllister Sr.

John Samuel “Sam” McAllister Sr., 74, of Chattanooga, passed away Monday, June 8, 2009, in a local hospital.

He was a native and lifelong resident of Chattanooga.

Mr. McAllister was a U.S. Airforce veteran and was the owner and operator of Service Dry Cleaners from 1997 until his retirement in 2008. He was of the Baptist faith.

His son, John Samuel McAllister Jr. preceded him in death.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Donna McAllister; children, Matt (Cherie) McAllister, of Chattanooga; Mark McAllister, of Atlanta; Karen (Lynn) Guetheline, of Ringgold; grandchildren, Joshua, Kristen, Cassie, Samantha, Wendie, Wes and Alyse.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 13, 2009, at 1 p.m. in the East Brainerd Chapel with Pastor Sterling Jetton officiating.

The family will receive friends from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association online at www.diabetes.org or by calling 1-800-342-2383.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.mem.com.

Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga.

Ruth Reese

Ruth Mosch Reese, 88, of Ooltewah, passed away Monday, June 8, 2009, at her residence.

Arrangements are by J. Avery Bryan Funeral Home, 747 McCallie Ave., 423-266-2131.

Maynard Robinson

Maynard Robinson passed Tuesday, June 9, 2009, in Chattanooga.

Arrangements by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., 622-9995.

Rachel Scott

Rachel Bell Scott, 89, a resident of Harrison, passed away Sunday, June 7, 2009, at the family residence.

She was the daughter of the late Harvey Roy and Nettie Mathis Roy. Her husband, Gartrell Scott, also preceded her in death along with her sisters, Bertha Delaney, Grace Parkinson; and brothers, Greely Roy and Carl Roy. She was retired from the Stanley Works Co. with 30 years of service and she attended Kings Point Baptist Church in Chattanooga.

Survivors include: nieces, Mildred McCoin, of Decatur, Mary McCoin, of Chattanooga, Vera Hale, of Ooltewah, Becky Delaney, of Crossville; nephews, Charles Delaney, of Cleveland, David Delaney Sr., of Harrison. Several great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews also survive.

A Remembrance of Life Service will be conducted at 1 p.m. today at Jim Rush Funeral Homes, Wildwood Avenue Chapel with Rev. Curtis Henderson officiating.

Interment will follow in Old McDonald Cemetery with Eric McCoin, Phillip McCoin, Clayton Delaney, Chase Jones, Adam Delaney and Alan Delaney serving as pallbearers.

Arrangements are by Jim Rush Funeral Homes, Wildwood Avenue Chapel who is in charge of the arrangements.

Connie Seals

Connie Louise Smith Seals, 59, of Hixson passed away Tuesday, June 9, 2009 at Erlanger.

She was employed with the Gold Bond Company in Hixson.

She is survived by her son, Bryan Standefer; parents A.J. and Wanda Smith; brother, Jim Smith; sister, Melody (Dicky) Cantrell; grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

A gathering of friends and family will be Saturday, June 13, 2009 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the home of A.J. and Wanda Smith.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association or National Parkinson Foundation.

Condolences may be made at www.Javerybryan.com.

Arrangements are by J. Avery Bryan Funeral Home 747 McCallie Ave., 423-266-2131.

Audrey Shadow

Audrey Armstrong Shadow surrendered her tired and worn out body and went to live with Jesus on Monday, June 8, 2009.

She was born May 5, 1921 in Grove Oak, Ala.

Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. today at the East chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home with Audrey’s lifelong friend, the Rev. Les Fauntleroy officiating.

Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery.

The family will receive friends 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.mem.com.

Memorial contributions may be made to Special Olympics.

Ted Sutton

Ted Michael Sutton, 53, of Chattanooga, passed away Monday, June 1, 2009.

The will be no visitation or services at this time.

Arrangements are by locally owned and operated Legacy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 8911 Dallas Hollow Road, Soddy-Daisy, TN 37379, www.legacyfuneralhome.com. 24-hour obituary line, 843-5055.

Joe Vandergriff

Joe H. Vandergriff, 84, of Hixson, passed away Wednesday, June 10, 2009, at his home.

He attended Friendship Baptist Church. He was a wounded veteran of the U.S. Army during WWII, and was a member of the American Legion Post 159. He loved the outdoors especially hunting and fishing.

He was preceded in death by his sisters, Gertrude Henderson, Edith Smith, Bessie Faye Fairbanks, Pauline Croft.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Jean Vandergriff; sons, Dale (Sharon) Vandergriff, Terry (Irene) Vandergriff; sister, Myrtle Copeland; six grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Friday in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Mike Combs officiating.

Interment will follow the service at Friendship Cemetery.

Family will receive friends from noon until 9 p.m. today at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Friendship Baptist Church, 7226 Moses Road, Hixson, TN 37343.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.williamsonandsons.com.

Arrangements are by Williamson & Sons Funeral Home, 8852 Dayton Pike, Soddy-Daisy, TN 37379.

Roberta Ward

Roberta Ann Shannon Ward, 67, of Chattanooga, died Tuesday, June 9, 2009, in a local hospital.

She is survived by her husband of 43 years, James A. Ward; her daughter and son-in-law, Anne Elizabeth Ward and Thomas A. Chambers; grandsons, Theodore Ward Chambers and Henry Ward Chambers, all of Niagara Falls, N.Y.; sisters, Geraldine Sattler and Kathy Bookwalter; brother, Patrick Shannon; many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Sylvia Shannon; and her granddaughter, Virginia Ward Chambers.

Roberta was a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and taught for 22 years in the English Department at Girls Preparatory School. Since retiring, she was a volunteer at Chattanooga READ and a member of the Missionary Ridge Garden Club.

The family will receive friends from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. today at the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 404 S. Moore Road.

A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. Friday at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church with Father George Schmidt officiating.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorial contributions may be made in Roberta’s name to Girls Preparatory School, P.O. Box 4736, Chattanooga, TN 37405.

Allen Williams Jr.

Allen T. Williams Jr. departed to be with the Lord on Tuesday, June 9, 2009, at Life Care Center of Red Bank.

He was born July 12, 1958 in Lutherville, Md.

Allen was a graduate of graduate of Townson State University in Townson, Md., and also a graduate of Syracuse University.

He was preceded in death by his father, Allen T. Williams Sr.; his mother, June Emma Williams; his brother-in-law, William C. Burham; and his nephew, William “BJ.” Burham Jr.

He is survived by his sister, Nancy M. Burnham-Kreiner and her husband, Jordan; his brother, Mark D. Williams; his niece, BettySue Burnham-Minnick and her husband, Kermit and daughter, Emma, and his great-nephew, William C. Burham III.

He was deeply loved at North Shore Fellowship, especially by his Wednesday evening fellowship group. No one will miss him more than his faithful and loving friend, Debbie Earhart.

Alcoholics Anonymous was a place where deep relationships were cultivated and Teen Challenge was a place where Allen met the Lord.

In lieu of flowers, please send gifts to Teen Challenge at P.O. Box 2280, Chattanooga, TN 37409.

A memorial service will be held at North Shore Fellowship today, June 11, at 10 a.m. Following the memorial and before the graveside service, Allen’s loved ones will receive friends at North Shore Fellowship.

There will be a graveside service at noon at Forest Hills Cemetery in St. Elmo.

TENNESSEE

Doris Cofer

CLEVELAND — Doris Cofer, 91, passed away Tuesday morning, June 9, 2009, at the home of her son and daughter-in-law, Bud and Madelaine Cofer, who were her caregivers.

She was born in Birchwood on June 28, 1917, the daughter of the late Thomas J. Gross and Stella Pierce Gross. Her husband, Brayton Cofer, also preceded her in death along with a grandson, Matthew Cofer; a sister, Inez Boyd; and a brother, Paul Gross. She attended Brainerd United Methodist Church.

Survivors include a son, Bud Cofer and his wife, Madelaine, of Cleveland; three grandchildren, Laura Champagney, of Greenback, Tenn., Michael Cofer, of Knoxville, Leigh-Anne Touzeau, of Knoxville; four great-grandchildren; one sister, Irene Rushbridge, of Rossville; one brother, Willard Gross, of Trussville, Ala. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

A Remembrance of Life Graveside Service will be at 11 a.m. today at Greenwood Cemetery in Chattanooga.

The eulogy will be given by her son, Bud Cofer and her granddaughter, Laura Champagney. Those wishing to attend should meet at the cemetery at 10:45 a.m. today.

Jim Rush Funeral Homes, North Ocoee Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.

Larry Condra

JASPER — Albert Lawrence “Larry” Condra, 58, of Smyrna, Ga., formerly of Jasper, died Monday, June 8, 2009.

He was the son of the late A.C. and Mary Condra. Larry was an Eagle Scout, a graduate of Marion County High School, Austin Peay State University and Samford University in Birmingham. Larry was a Pharmacist, having owned Condra Pharmacy in Jasper for many years, and more recently worked in Atlanta.

He is survived by his brothers, Glen “Buck” (Jayme) Condra, of Pass Christian, Miss., and Samuel J. “Sam” (Sandy) Condra, of Jasper.

The family will receive friends today, June 11, from 10 a.m. CDT until time of service at noon at Rogers Funeral Home, Jasper.

Online condolences may be left for the family by visiting our website at www.rogersfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society or Jasper Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

John Dosser Jr.

SHELBYVILLE — John Wilds Dosser, Jr., 97, a native of Chattanooga, passed away Tuesday, June 9, 2009.

Graveside services will be at 11:30 a.m. EDT today, June 11, 2009, at Chattanooga Memorial Park, Chattanooga, with full military honors.

Arrangements by Doak-Howell Funeral Home.

Margaret Miller

SPRING CITY — Margaret D. Miller, 89, died Wednesday, June 10, 2009, at NHC HealthCare, Athens in Athens, Tenn.

Born in Spring City, Margaret was the daughter of the late Thomas and Bess Cash Darwin and was a graduate of Spring City High School, Class of 1938. She was a Licensed Practical Nurse and worked for Chamberlain Memorial Hospital in Rockwood, Tenn., for 14 years before her retirement in 1990. Margaret was a member of Spring City United Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Wallace Coulter, Harold Hart and Newell Miller Sr.; daughter, Carlene Massengell; and brother, Jack Darwin.

Survivors include her son, Clay (Mary) Coulter, of Spring City; stepsons, Joel Miller, of Kingston, Tenn., and Newell Miller Jr., of Goshen, N.Y.; sister, Dorothy Tinsley, of Orlando, Fla.; nine grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. in the chapel of Vaughn Funeral Home with the Rev. Dale Wyrick officiating.

Interment will be in Spring City Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Vaughn Funeral Home, Spring City is in charge of arrangements.

Michael Moon

DECATUR — Michael Ray “Mike” Moon, 39, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, June 9, 2009.

Funeral services are 11 a.m. Saturday, June 13, at Bowers Funeral Home Chapel.

Interment in Good Hope Cemetery.

Visitation is Friday from 5-8 p.m. at Bowers Funeral Home 423-334-3661.

GEORGIA

Mary Bailey

PINEVIEW — Mary Hatcher Bailey, 80, died Monday, June 8, 2009, in the Taylor Regional Hospital.

Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. today, June 11, 2009, in Friendship Cemetery in Pulaski County with Dr. Kelly Pritchett officiating.

Mrs. Bailey was a native of Pulaski County and a member of Hawkinsville First United Methodist Church. She was a retired public school teacher having taught at the Catoosa County Elementary School. She was preceded in death by her husband, Haskin Bailey.

Survivors include sons and daughters, Jerry (Carolyn) Bailey, of Chattanooga, David (Debbie) Bailey, of Macon, Ga., Anne (Keith) Barto and Michelle (Keith) Lamb, all of Merritt Island, Fla.; 13 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Alzheimers Research Foundation: www.alzinfo.org.

Please sign the online register at www.clarkfuneralhawkinsville.com.

Clark Funeral Home of Hawkinsville, Ga. is in charge of arrangements.

Shirley Christopher

RINGGOLD — Shirley Jean Christopher, 72, passed away Wednesday, June 10, 2009.

She was born in Indianapolis, Ind. Jan. 10, 1937, was a 1955 graduate from Broad Ripple High School in Indianapolis, Ind., and moved to Ringgold, Ga., in November of 1994 with her husband of more than 50 years. Shirley was a brilliant and loving woman with many friends, hobbies and interests. Shirley touched many lives and will be missed by all.

Survivors include her husband, Charles David Christopher; daughter, Debbie Gant; son, David Christopher; sister, Rita Long; uncle, Kenny Landis; three granddaughters; three great-grandsons; and several nieces and nephews.

Condolences may be sent to www.lane-southcrestchapel.com.

If possible, please make donations to The V Foundation for Cancer Research in Shirley’s name.

Memorial services will be held Saturday at 4 p.m. in the South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home & Crematory, Rossville.

Mary Conner

TUNNEL HILL — Mary V. Conner, 77, departed this life Tuesday, June 9, 2009.

She retired from Red Food Store after many years of service, attended Spring Place UMC in Chatsworth, and was a member of the Red Hat Society.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, William and Anna Kountz; brothers, Buddy and William “Bill” Kountz Jr.; and husband, Gordon Conner.

Survivors include her children, Betty Ann (Jim) Harwood, of Mexico Beach, Fla., Sonya Renee (Pete) Petty, of Chatsworth, Ga., Robert Shannon (Amy) Conner, of Goodletsville, Tenn.; grandchildren, Wesley, Diedre, Chris, Daniel, Megan, Toby, Ian, Kate, Ben; great-grandchildren, Alex, Allie, Tyler; and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, June 12, 2009, at Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park.

Family will receive friends from 5 until 8 p.m. today and prior to the service Friday.

Arrangements are by W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Alvy Kent Sr.

ROSSVILLE — Alvy David Kent Sr., 74, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, June 9, 2009.

He was born in St. Cloud, Minn., on Oct. 12, 1934 to the late Bishop Grady R. and Eunice Kent and in 1950 at the age of 16 was the youngest Pilot in America. He had lived in the North Georgia area for most of his life and was of the Pentecostal faith. He enjoyed traveling, photography, but most of all, he was known for his great sense of humor and always playing practical jokes.

He was also preceded in death by his son, Alvy David Kent Jr.; three brothers and three sisters.

Survivors include his loving wife of more than 57 years, Reba Parkerson Kent, of Rossville; son, George Kent, of Rossville; daughter, Vickie Baxter of Marietta, Ga.; brother, James Kent, of Cleveland, Tenn.; three grandchildren, Krissy Kent, Lisa Chapman and Jeff (Leabertia) Kent; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, June 12, 2009 in the Fort Oglethorpe Chapel with Pastor Isaac Walker officiating.

Burial will follow in Crestlawn Cemetery.

The family will receive friends today from 5-8 p.m. and prior to the service on Friday at the funeral home.

Online guest book at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements by W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Peggy Martin

LaFAYETTE — Peggy Jane Martin, 70, passed away Wednesday, June 10, 2009.

She was born in Coffee County, Ala., to the late Edgar and Eunice Sasser. She had lived in Florida and Pennsylvania areas for most of her life before moving to North Georgia. She was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother, who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Survivors include her loving husband of more than 52 years, Clarence Martin Sr., of LaFayette; sons and daughters-in-law, Clarence and Mary Martin Jr., Jimmy Martin, Phillip and Michele Martin, all of Honesdale, Pa., and Vernon and Missy Martin, of LaFayette; daughter and son-in-law, Sherry and David Hannah, of Ringgold, Ga.; 12 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, June 15, 2009 in the LaFayette Chapel of Wilson Funeral Homes.

Burial will be private.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Monday at the funeral home.

Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 300 West Emery St., Suite 106, Dalton, GA 30720, 706-278-1960.

Arrangements by the LaFayette Chapel of Wilson Funeral Homes, 1779 North Main St., LaFayette, GA 30728.

Martha Thomas

LaFAYETTE — Martha Anne Wardlaw Thomas, 84, passed away on Sunday afternoon, June 7, 2009, in Chattanooga, following a lengthy illness.

She was a graduate of LaFayette High School and obtained a nursing degree from the Georgia Baptist Hospital in Atlanta. She served as a member of the United States Cadet Nurse Corps during World War II and worked as a registered nurse in Walker County from 1947 until the late 80’s, most of that time as a Walker County Health Nurse. She was also an active, longtime member of Chattooga Baptist Church.

Mrs. Thomas was the widow of James Elton Thomas, of LaFayette, the daughter of Emma Storey and Samuel Wardlaw, and the great-granddaughter of J.A. Storey, a Civil War veteran.

She is survived by many nieces, nephews and friends and will be greatly missed.

Services will be held Friday, June 12, at Wilson Funeral Home.

Visitation will be from 9:30 to 11 a.m. and the funeral service will be at 11 a.m.

Interment will follow at Chattooga Baptist Church.

Arrangements by the LaFayette Chapel of Wilson Funeral Homes, LaFayette.

ALABAMA

Leona Freeman

FORT PAYNE — Leona Mae White Freeman, 85, died Wednesday, June 10, 2009.

Survivors: son, Ronald Freeman; daughters, Rita Baker, Brenda Wilhite; sisters, Virginia Oyler, Shelva Hall and Shirley Jones; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren.

Funeral 11 a.m. CDT Friday at Burt Chapel.

Visitation 5-9 p.m CDT today at Burt Funeral Home.

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