Obituaries for February 5, 2010

HAMILTON COUNTY

Rodney Baptist

Rodney James Baptist, 83, of Hixson, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010.

Rodney was born in Rockton, Ill., and served our country during World War II and the Korean War in the U.S. Navy. He was a former firefighter in Beloit, Wis., before working at Baptist Hospital in Jacksonville, Fla., and retiring to the Hixson area for the past 13 years. Rodney was a member of St. Jude Catholic Church. He volunteered at the Chattanooga Food Bank and Memorial Northpark Hospital.

Rodney was preceded in death by a son, Michael James Baptist Sr.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Smith Baptist; two children, Jeffrey (Julie) Baptist and Kathy (William) Hodges; nine grandchildren, Curt Hodges, Michael (Lisa) Baptist Jr., Stacy (Steven) Willis, Tracy (Jeff) Spence, Matt (Jill) Turner, Stephanie Baptist, Christina (Daniel Skolfield) Baptist, Johnathan Baptist and Daniel Hodges; 19 great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the North Chapel with a Rosary Service at 8 p.m. Sunday.

A Mass of Celebration will be held at 1 p.m. Monday at St. Jude Catholic Church with Father Charlie Burton officiating.

Burial will follow in Hamilton Memorial Gardens.

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

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

Rosie Bivens

Rosalie Guinn Bivens, 85, of Chattanooga, passed away Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010.

She was the daughter of the late Lycurgus and Della Guinn and was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert H. Bivens and seven siblings.

She was a member of White Oak Baptist Church for over 60 years.

Rosie was a commercial artist and had worked as a volunteer chapel organist with Erlanger Hospital and Siskin Rehabilitation Center for over 25 years. She also had assisted as a volunteer with Red Cross at Erlanger.

Survivors include her two daughters and sons-in-law, Sharon (David) Gilley, of Chattanooga, Paulette (Edward) Sullivan, of Sugar Land, Texas; two grandchildren, Dale R. (Rochelle) DuMont, Rachel E. DuMont; and three great-grandchildren, Justus, Isaiah and Gabrielle.

Funeral services will be held 3 p.m. Sunday in the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home with Dr. Tony L. Wilson officiating.

Interment will be in Chattanooga National Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 1-3 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

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

Arrangements by Chattanooga Funeral Home, North Chapel, 5041 Highway 153, Hixson.

Lerol Champion

Lerol Champion, 81, of Palm Dessert, Calif., died Sunday, Dec. 27, 2009.

Born Feb. 6, 1928 in Canton, Ga., to the late Richard and Ella Newberry Champion, he had resided in the Los Angeles area from 1949 until 1979 as an employee of Burroughs Corp. He then relocated to San Jose to work as senior materials manager for Solectron Corp. until his retirement in 2002.

Champ received numerous awards in the course of his employment with Solectron and was honored nationally by President George H.W. Bush as recipient of the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award in 1987 and 1991.

Champ served in the U.S. Navy stationed as electricians mate 3rd class aboard the USS Sperry, USS Sea Fox and USS Coucal. He was awarded the WWII Victory, American Theatre and Asiatic Pacific Medals.

Champ attended school in Jasper and Cass Georgia and was a member of Fairview Baptist Church in Atco, Ga.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brother, Richard Champion; and four sisters, Pearl Cardwell, Lila Belle Teague, Grace Norris and Louise Lowery.

Survivors are his brothers, Leon Champion and Paul Champion, both of Chattanooga and his West Coast friends and longtime companions, Barbara Smith and Ron Leach.

A private family service will be later at Long Swamp Baptist Church, Marble Hill, Ga.

This announcement is courtesy of Heritage Funeral Home, Chattanooga.

Willie Dawkins

Willie Mae Dawkins, 89, a lifelong resident of Chattanooga, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, at her residence.

Mrs. Dawkins was born in Chattanooga to William and Bitha Hallaman. She was of the Baptist faith and was preceded in death by her husband, John Wilson Dawkins; and granddaughter, Cyndee Garner.

Survivors include her daughter, Judy Ann Brown; grandchildren, Rocky (Leslie) Babb and Tammy (Michael) Dorsey; great-grandchildren, Tamarra Dorsey, John Michael Dorsey, Eric Lee (Meagan) Thornton, Robert Lebron Garner, and Rocky Babb Jr.; and several great-great-grandchildren.

Graveside Services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 8, 2010, at Chattanooga National Cemetery with Rev. Wayland Stewart officiating.

Memorial donations may be made to the Hamilton County Humane Society or the Purple Heart Association.

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

Arrangements are by the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 404 S. Moore Road.

Danielita Diaz

Danielita Diaz, 4 years old, of Chattanooga, passed away on Monday, Feb. 1, 2010.

Danielita was born in Guatemala City, Guatemala to Marco Jr. and Blanca Diaz.

Survivors include her parents; grandparents, Marco (Aida) Diaz Sr., of Chattanooga, Alma (Tony) Hernandez, of California, and Angel (Blanca) Guerra of Guatemala; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Memorial donations may be made to Brainerd Church of Christ, 4203 Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37411.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2010, at the funeral home with Minister Marco Diaz Sr. officiating.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the funeral service.

Burial will follow at Chattanooga Memorial Park.

EN MEMORIA DE NUESTRA BELLA PRINCESA QUE CON UNA SONRISA UNIO A TODOS CON SU AMOR.

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

Arrangements are by the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 404 S. Moore Road.

Ruby Fennell

Ruby Mae Montgomery Fennell, 80, passed away on Monday, Feb. 1, 2010, at a local health care facility.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clearance and Fannie McKinney Montgomery; brother, Miles Montgomery.

Survivors include children, Anthony (Hilda) Fennell, Rome, Ga., and Gilda Ann Fennell, Chattanooga; a grandson, whom she raised as a son, Calvin Hall, Chattanooga; grandchildren, Amber Fennell, Marietta, Ga.; Melvin (Brenda Stoudermire) Fennell, Chattanooga; great-grandchildren; a host of very dear relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010 at Church of God of Prophecy in Chickamauga, Ga., at 1724 Chickamauga Loop with Minister Novella Miller officiating.

Interment in Highland Cemetery.

The body will lie in state after noon today at John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., 622-9995.

Jimmie Foster

Jimmie Lee Cunningham Foster passed away Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, in Alpharetta, Ga.

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

James Grant Sr.

James "Jim" L. Grant Sr., 87, of Chattanooga, went home to be with the Lord Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010.

Jim was a veteran of World War II serving in the U.S. Army and retired from Container Corporation with over 41 years of service. He was a member of St. John United Methodist Church. Jim was a member of the Brainerd Masonic Lodge.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Meredith Grant.

James is survived by his four children, James L. (Phyllis) Grant Jr., William E. "Bill" (Cheryl) Grant, Nancy Grant (Tom) Pledger and R. Greg (Katie) Grant; 12 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and five siblings.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. today and 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Saturday at the North Chapel.

Services for Jim will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at the North Chapel with the Rev. Randy Martin officiating.

Burial will follow in Hamilton Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be made in Jim's name to St. John United Methodist Church, 3921 Murray Hills Drive, Chattanooga, TN 37416.

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

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

Charles Holcombe

Charles Robert Holcombe, 65, of Tiftonia, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010.

A longtime resident of Chattanooga, Mr. Holcombe was retired from BASF after 30 years of service. He was a member of Temple Baptist Church and the Believers Sunday school class.

He was the son of the late Oscar Holcombe and Dorothy Johnson.

He will be remembered as the most loving and generous father a family could have.

Survivors are his loving wife of 46 years, Frances Holcombe; daughter, Kelly (James) Canning, Hixson; two sons, Chuck (Mary) Holcombe, Houston, Texas, and Wade (Jennifer) Holcombe, Hixson; special cousin, Janet Marks, Flintstone, Ga.; grandchildren, Mandi and Cody Pell, Cassie (Ed) Eldridge, Brittney Holcombe, Jaden and Amber Holcombe; step-grandchildren, Matt and Brianna Canning; great-grandson, Claude Edward Eldridge V "Little Eddy"; stepgreat-granddaughter, Camri Eldridge.

Funeral services will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. in the chapel with the Rev. Shad Smith officiating.

Burial will be at Lakewood Memory Gardens, West.

Memorial contributions may be made to Temple Baptist Church Building Fund, 3204 Clio Avenue, Chattanooga 37407.

Visit www.heritagefh.com to share words of comfort to the family.

The family will receive friends today from 4-8 p.m. at Heritage Funeral Home, East Brainerd Road.

Ray McCabe

Raymond "Ray" Earl McCabe, 57, peacefully went home to be with the Lord and join his parents on Monday, Feb. 1, 2010, at his home in Red Bank after battling a long term illness.

Ray's nickname on his job was "Mighty Mouse" where he was employed and worked many long hard hours to support his family thru the ironworkers Local 704 followed with 10 years employment at U.S. Pipe until his illness.

He was raised in the Baptist faith at Ridgecrest Baptist Church where he was later Baptized after rededicating his life to the Lord.

He was preceded in his homecoming by his parents Earl and Lottie McCabe.

Surviving are his loving wife and caretaker of 34 years, Jacqueline "Jackie" Graham McCabe, who's life will be forever changed; his four boys, Daniel Spike, Rocky Shane, Zachary Bronson and Clinton Blake, all of Red Bank will sadly miss their father and cherish many loving memories; he was very happy to be blessed with four beautiful grandchildren that admired their Pawpaw, Celton Stone McCabe, Kaylee Rae McCabe, Sierra Malynn McCabe and Rocksy Lynn McCabe and expecting number five that will learn from the others the admirable Pawpaw that went to be with Jesus; also his companion, bed buddy and lap dog "Oscar". He is also survived by his brother, Clifford McCabe; sisters, Freda Roberts and Annette Cooper; several nieces and nephews; and many loving friends.

A special thanks to Dr. Virani and his nurse Kelly for their kindness and patience in caring for Ray.

A memorial service will be held 3 p.m. Saturday at Lane Funeral Home with Pastor T. Jordan officiating.

Visit www.lanefh.com to send condolences.

Visitation is after 4 p.m. today and 2-3 p.m. Saturday at Lane Funeral Home, 601 Ashland Terrace.

TyIsha Petite

TyIsha Nicole Petite, 28, of Chattanooga, passed away Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010, in a local hospital.

She was employed by Dr. Sherard's office and attended Alternative Visions Hair Academy.

Survivors: mother, Denise Petite; father, Alan Petite; grandfather, Robert McKinley; sisters, Keosha Petite and Shamila Montgomery; brothers, Pierre Williams and Joshua Petite, all of Chattanooga; a host of aunts, uncles, one niece, one nephew, other relatives and friends.

Funeral: Saturday at noon in the chapel of Taylor Funeral Home with Pastor T. Sykes and Willie Hammonds officiating.

Burial: Forest Hills Cemetery.

The body will lie in state today after noon at the funeral home.

Charles Roberts

Charles Roberts, 71, of Hixson, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, at his home.

Mr. Roberts was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Betty Roberts; and his wife, Ethel Alberta Roberts.

Survivors include his children, Linda Lively, E. Darlene Howard, Dorene Roman and Lawrence Roberts; brother, Duane Roberts and his wife, Patsy; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010, at Coulter Cemetery in Walker County, Ga., with the Rev. Wayland Stewart officiating.

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

Arrangements are by the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 404 S. Moore Road.

Paul Short

Paul Alfred "Al" Short, 43, of Chattanooga, died Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010.

He was predeceased by his father, Paul Guy Short.

Survivors include his mother, Barbara Ann Short, Chattanooga; two sisters, Ginger Short and Shelley Covarrubias; niece, Jessica Miles; nephew, Chattman Easterday, all of Sweetwater and many cousins, aunts and uncles.

Visitation will be in Calvary Church of the Nazarene, today 5-8 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The Rev. Mike Campbell will conduct the service on Saturday at 2 p.m.

Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Church of the Nazarene, 4400 Bonny Oaks Drive, Chattanooga, TN 37416.

Send condolences at www.CovenantFuneral.com .

Arrangements are by Covenant Funeral & Cremation Service, Crox family owned and operated.

Nancy Simpkins

Nancy T. Simpkins, 76, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Wednesday, Feb, 3, 2010.

She was the daughter of the late Aldron Rand and Erma Jean Hall Turner and was born in Knoxville. She graduated from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville in 1955 with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Business. "Mrs. Nancy" was the founder and director of Powell Day Care Center for over 25 years.

While living in Knoxville, Nancy was an active member of Broadway Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday School and sang in the choir. Upon the time of her death, Nancy was an active member of Silverdale Baptist Church in Chattanooga, serving there as a member of the senior choir and a member of the Sunshine Class. She also served as the social secretary for the Village of Ashwood Subdivision in Chattanooga.

Nancy was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, James A. Simpkins.

She is survived by two daughters, Jamie S. Milligan and her husband, Tim, of Ooltewah; Kelly S. Bowling and her husband, Garry, of Birmingham, Ala.; granddaughter, Lauren Milligan, of Ooltewah, and grandson, Aaron Bowling, of Birmingham, Ala.

Funeral services will be held today, Feb. 5, 2010 at 7 p.m. at the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home with Rev. Tony Walliser and Rev. Eddie Wilson officiating in Chattanooga and Rev. Luther Johnson in Knoxville.

Honoray pallbearers will be members of the Sunshine Class at Silverdale Baptist Church: Howard Martin; Bill Mckaig; Charles Wheaton; and Mike Massey. In addition, honorary pallbearers will include lifelong friends, Ernie Rochat and David Bayless. Active pallbearers will be Barry Bowling, Zack Bowling, Chris Bowling, Jim Milligan, Chris Milligan and Hayes Rochat.

The family will receive friends today from 5 to 7 p.m. at the East Brainerd Chapel.

Interment will be Saturday at noon at Lynnhurst Cemetery in Knoxville.

The family will receive friends Saturday from 11 a.m. until noon at the Berry Funeral Home, Lynnhurst Chapel.

Memorial contributions may be made to Silverdale Baptist Church, 7236 Bonny Oaks Drive, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

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

Arrangements are being made by the Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, East Brainerd Chapel, 8214 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

James Stubblefield

James Andrew Stubblefield, 74, of Chattanooga, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, in a local hospital.

He was born Sept. 22, 1935 in Franklin County, Tenn. to the late Beulah and A.J. Stubblefield Sr.

He was retired from the United States Marine Corp after 30 years of service with three tours in Vietnam. He attained the rank of Sergeant Major.

Mr. Stubblefield was a member North Red Bank Baptist Church and was an avid golfer.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Roy Stubblefield, Leon Stubblefield and A.J. Stubblefield Jr.; and sister, Virginia Vandergriff.

Survivors include his sisters, Mamie Fisher, of Chattanooga; Christine (Don) Canale, of Soddy-Daisy; and brother, Elbert (Vera) Stubblefield, of Hixson; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Saturday at 11:30 a.m. in the North Chapel with the Rev. Roger Redmond and the Rev. Bert Jones officiating.

Burial will follow at Hamilton Memorial Gardens with military honors.

The family will receive friends today from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to North Red Bank Baptist Church, 4701 McCahill Road, Chattanooga, TN 37415.

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

Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson.

Brantley Sumrall

Brantley Jerrell "Jerry" Sumrall, 64, of Chattanooga, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010.

Jerry was born in Jackson, Miss., to B.W. and Annie Pearl Sumrall. Jerry enlisted in the United States Navy in 1963 and served in Vietnam. He graduated from Tennessee Temple University in 1980, then taught at several of the Christian schools in the Chattanooga area.

Jerry was a member of Lifegate Baptist Church and was an assistant pastor there for several years until his health declined.

Mr. Sumrall is survived by his wife of 36 years, Elaine Sumrall; one son, David Sumrall; and granddaughter, Kaleigh Sumrall. He also is survived by two sisters, Pat Dorton, of Phenix City, Ala. and Sherry Cooley, of Opelika, Ala.; aunt, Jenny Duke; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, Feb. 8, 2010, at 10 a.m. at the North Chapel with Pastor James Dunn and Joe Nelms officiating.

Interment will follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery with military honors.

The family will receive friends Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010, from 4-8 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 7, 2010, from noon-6 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the building fund of Lifegate Baptist Church, 1813 Thrasher Pike, Hixson, TN 37343.

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

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

Tyler Thomas

Tyler Matthew Thomas, 25, of Sale Creek, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010.

Tyler was currently employed at Dayton Plastics and was a member of Plumbers and Steam Fitters Local #43.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, George McMahan.

Survivors include his father and stepmother, Ricky (Darlene) Thomas, of Sale Creek; mother, Cindy Thomas, of Harrison; paternal grandparents, T.J. and Gracie Thomas, of Sale Creek; maternal grandmother, Betty McMahan; brother, Rex (Amber) Dugger, of Dayton; sister, Missy (David) Hampton, of Sale Creek; nephews, Dakota Poe, Aiden and Brody Dugger; niece, Courtney Hampton; aunts and uncles, Tammy (Jesse) Robinson and Ronnie (Ruby) McGee; cousins, Gator Dillon and Chase McGee.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 7, 2010, in the Legacy Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Authur Thomas, the Rev. Dennis Goins and the Rev. David Sampson officiating.

Interment will follow in Pleasant View Cemetery with Anthony Brown, Lloyd Yearwood, Cody Olstrom, David Hampton, Billy Gregory, James Gregory, Eddie Macintosh and Daniel Copeland serving as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends after 4 p.m. today and all day Saturday at the funeral home.

Arrangements are by locally owned and operated Legacy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 8911 Dallas Hollow Road, Soddy-Daisy. Share your memories, stories and photos at www.legacyfuneralhome.com. 24-hour obituary line 843-5055.

Dorris Tongate

Dorris "D.C." Tongate, 62, of Soddy-Daisy passed gently into the arms of the Lord on Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010, at his home.

He was a native of Hopkinsville, Ky., where he was a graduate of Hopkinsville High School, Class of 1965. Mr. Tongate received his BS and Master degrees in Physics and Electrical Engineering from Tennessee Tech University and an EdS degree from University of Georgia. He was employed as a Power Utilization Engineer by TVA's Customer Service department and retired in 2001. Mr. Tongate was of the Church of Christ faith.

He was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Christine Martin and Paul Goodwin.

He is survived by his wife, Carlene; children, Ashlea (fiancé Justin Rumer), of Soddy-Daisy and David (Bethany), of Hoover, Ala.; brother, Darrel (Judy) Tongate, of Hendersonville, Tenn.; maternal aunt, Lillian Speer, of Clarksville, Tenn.; and several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010, in the Legacy Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Don Lasley officiating.

There will be no visitation.

Arrangements are by locally owned and operated Legacy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Soddy-Daisy. Share your memories, stories and photos at www.legacyfuneralhome.com. 24-hour obituary line 843-5055.

Joe Turner Jr.

Joe C. Turner Jr., 84, of Chattanooga, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, in a local healthcare facility.

He was a member of Ridgedale Baptist Church and the Friendship Sunday School Class and was also a former member of the Brainerd Optimist Club.

He was a United States Navy Veteran serving during World War II and was retired from Standard Iron and Wire Works after 23 years of service.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Kathryn C. Turner; and two brothers, Cecil and Charles Turner.

Survivors include his wife Virginia A. Turner; daughter, Beverly T. (Joe A.) Lawhorn, of Chattanooga; son, James "Doug" (Sharon C.) Turner, of Trenton, Ga.; stepdaughter, Mandi (Al) Cantrell, of Sylacauga, Ala.; sister, Mrs. W. W. "Bonnie" Williams of Chattanooga; grandchildren, James Shaye Turner of Nashville; Nicholas Joseph Turner and James Sean Turner, both of Chattanooga, Tonya C. Henley, of Trenton, Mary Kelly Cantrell and Allison Cantrell, both of Sylacauga; six great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held today at 11 a.m. in the East Brainerd Chapel with Dr. Bill Owens officiating.

Burial will follow at Lakewood Memory Gardens, East.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association. P.O. Box 13067, Alexandria, VA 22312-9067.

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

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

Paul Waller

Paul Terry Waller, 63, of Harrison passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, in a local healthcare center.

Funeral service will be held at graveside at 2 p.m. today, Feb. 5, in Grasshopper Road Church of God Cemetery with Pastor Fred Smith officiating.

The family will receive friends today from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Arrangements are by Turner Funeral Home Inc., 622-3171.

TENNESSEE

James Buckner

ENGLEWOOD -- James Buckner, 69, died Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, at U.T. Medical Center, Knoxville.

Service is 2 p.m. Sunday in the South Chapel with burial following at Conasauga Cemetery.

Visitation 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, at the funeral home.

Arrangements by Bordwine Funeral Home of Etowah.

Mable Burns

SPRING CITY -- Mable C. Burns, 91, died Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010.

Funeral services will be Sunday at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Vaughn Funeral Home.

Interment will follow in Spring City Cemetery.

Visitation will be Saturday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Vaughn Funeral Home, Spring City.

Mary Colston

JASPER -- Mary Nell Phillips Colston, 75, died in a Chattanooga hospital on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010.

The daughter of the late Otis Mack and Stella Elizabeth Grider Phillips, she was a member of First Baptist Church in Jasper. She also was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Ray Colston; two sisters, Ollie Mae Phillips and Ethel Faye Phillips; and one brother, Billy Mack Phillips.

She is survived by two sons, Barry Ray Colston and Joel Alan (Kimberly) Colston, both of Jasper; great-nephew, Derreck Worley, of Jasper; two sisters, Betty Sue Hayes, of Guild, Tenn., and Addie Jo Phillips, of Jasper; four brothers, Paul Allen (Ruby) Phillips, of Whitwell, George "Wick" (Joyce) Phillips, Otis Lee (Judy) Phillips, both of Harrison, and James Boyce "Skip" (Donna) Phillips, of Jasper; and two grandsons, J. Adam Colston and Jeremy Andrew Colston, both of Jasper.

The family will receive friends at Rogers Funeral Home in Jasper today, Feb. 5, from 3-8 p.m. CST.

Online condolences may be left by visiting www.rogersfuneral home.com.

Interment will be in Pine Grove Cemetery in Jasper.

Funeral services will be at Rogers Funeral Home in Jasper at 1 p.m. CST Saturday, Feb. 6, with the Rev. Roger Webb officiating.

Johnny Jones

EVENSVILLE -- Johnny William Jones, 62, died Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, at Erlanger Health System.

Funeral will be 2 p.m. Saturday in the funeral home chapel with Speaker Carrol Henderson.

Burial in Buttram Cemetery.

Visitation from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday at Coulter-Garrison Funeral Home

James Sanders

TRACY CITY -- James Clifford Sanders, 80, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010, in a Chattanooga hospital.

Mr. Sanders was a retired welder and a veteran of the Korean Conflict.

Survivors include his daughter, Linda Mueller; sons, Phil Sanders, Christopher Sanders; brother, Dewey Sanders; and sister, Margaret Sanders, all of Cincinnati, Ohio.

Visitation will be today from 5-9 p.m. CST at Foster & Lay Funeral Home, Tracy City.

Services will be Saturday at 11 a.m. CST in the funeral home chapel with the Rev. Mike Rigsby officiating.

Burial with military honors will be at Plainview Memorial Cemetery.

Parker Smith

ESTILL SPRINGS -- Parker Smith, 76, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, at his residence.

Funeral service will be at 2 p.m CST today at Bethel Baptist Church.

Interment in Watson-North Memorial Park.

On-line condolences may be sent to www.watsonnorth.com.

Visitation will begin at noon today at the church.

Francis Steiner Jr.

NASHVILLE -- Francis Joseph Steiner Jr. died Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010, in Nashville.

Born Sept. 23, 1929 in Chattanooga and preceded in death by his parents, Ella Bray Steiner and Francis Joseph Steiner Sr.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Frances Kincaid Steiner; son, Frank Joseph Steiner III (Nida); daughter, Ann Buntin Steiner; grandchildren, Clare Kincaid Petikun Steiner, MaryAnn Frances Steiner, Bridget Colleen Steiner; sister, Mary Lynn Stringer, Collinsville, Ill.; Grand-dogs, Megan and Max (Border Collies), Mason (Horse) and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 4-6 p.m. today, Feb. 5, at St. Henry Catholic Church.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, at St. Henry's.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Henry Church or the St. Cecilia Convent.

Marshall Donnelly Combs. 615-327-1111.

Oleta Whitfield

DAYTON -- Oleta Edath Whitfield, 86 died Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, at Soddy-Daisy Health Care Center.

Funeral services will be held Saturday at noon in the funeral home chapel.

Entombment in Spring City Memorial Gardens.

Visit guest register at www.vanderwallfh.com.

Visitation today after 3 p.m. at Vanderwall Funeral Home.

GEORGIA

Edwin Baxter

RINGGOLD -- Edwin Lamar "Bud" Baxter formerly of Ringgold, passed away in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2010.

The family will receive friends Saturday, Feb. 6, from 1-3 p.m. at Ringgold United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.

There will be a private graveside service officiated by the Rev. John Purrington to be held at a later time.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the RUMC Building Fund, P.O. Box 99, Ringgold, GA 30736.

Arrangements are by the Ringgold Chapel of Wilson Funeral Homes, Ringgold.

Inez Castro

LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN -- Inez Virginia Veal Castro, 71, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010.

A Mass of Celebration will be at 11 a.m. Monday at Our Lady of Mount Catholic Church.

Interment 1 p.m. EST at Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Visitation 4-8 p.m. Sunday at Moore Funeral Home, Trenton, Ga.

Valerie Hawkins

SUMMERVILLE -- Valerie Jean Hawkins, 46, died Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010.

Survivors include sons, Justin, Tron, and Brent Hawkins; companion, Danny Pickard; sister, Carol Potts; brother, Kenneth Misskelley; grandchild, Dakota Hawkins.

Funeral is 7 p.m. today, Feb. 5, at Mason Funeral Home.

Visitation is 6 until 7 p.m. today.

Hazel Hudgins

ROSSVILLE -- Hazel Joann Hudgins, 75, passed away Friday, Jan. 29, 2010, at her residence.

She was formerly employed by Shaw Industries and was a member of the Church of Christ.

She was preceded in death by her father, Alonzo Trammell Sr.; and brother, Paul A. Trammell.

Survivors: daughter, Shelia J. (Gene) Mason, of Rossville; stepson, Eugene Strickland, of Chickamauga, Ga.; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; mother, Frances L. Thomas, of Chickamauga; brothers, Speedy (Joyce) Trammell, of Chattanooga, Robert A. Thomas, of Chickamauga and Charles (Carolyn) Anderson, of Mississippi; several nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Funeral: Saturday at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Taylor Funeral Home with Charles Anderson officiating.

Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park.

Visitation: today from 7-8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Rev. Thomas Norman

LaFAYETTE -- Rev. Thomas "Tommy" Matthew Norman, 82, died Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010.

Tommy retired from Corley Mfg. Co. after 43 years as a machinist, during and after retirement he also worked for various funeral homes in the area. Mr. Norman was a retired Minister of The Church of God of Prophecy were he ministered for 60 years.

Tommy was a member of Trion Church of God.

He was preceded in death by his son, Marvin Shields Norman; and daughter, Carolyn Sue Norman; parents, Walter B. and Jenny Mae Yother Norman; brothers, Ralph, Faye B. and Shields Norman; sisters, Lottie Millican, Sue White, Annie Hix, Jewel McCoy and Cleo Brooks; great-grandson, Dylan Clark; stepmother, Hattie Botts Norman; stepbrothers, Roy Warren and Ernest Botts.

Survived by his wife, Catherine B. Williams Norman; sons and daughters-in-law, Kenneth L. Norman, and Carolyn, of Ider, Ala., Wayne Norman and Anita, of Summerville; daughters and sons-in-law, Elise Norman, of LaFayette, Glenda Hasty and Shelby, of Rocky Face, Lynn Snyder and Rich, of LaFayette; 10 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews also survive.

Funeral from First Baptist Church of LaFayette Saturday at noon. Service conducted by the Rev. Lillard Stringer and Bishop James Anders.

Pallbearers are grandsons, Leslie Floyd, Michael Floyd, Kevin Norman, Randy Snyder, Brandon Smith and Grant Floyd.

Honory pallbearers are J.C. Brown, Chuck Watson, Don Williams, Greely Ashworth, J.C. Long, Timothy Wilson, Wade Bates, David Pace, Tyler VanPelt and Carl Jackson.

Interment in Crestlawn Memorial Park Cemetery.

Family will receive friends at the Funeral Home today from 2 to 8 p.m.

The arrangements are by Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home of LaFayette.

Paul Sholtz

LaFAYETTE -- Paul Edward Sholtz, 68, passed away Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010.

He was born in Ooltewah to the late Alex and Eva Sholtz, but had lived in the North Georgia area for the last 49 years. He attended Calvarys Cross Church of God and was a self-employed Contractor and Brick Mason for more than 50 years. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

He also was preceded in death by six brothers, Leonard, Raymond, Winfred, Harold, David and JB Sholtz.

Survivors include his loving wife of more than 49 years, Juanita DeBord Sholtz, of LaFayette; daughters and sons-in-law, Patricia (Brent) Burrell, of LaFayette, and Sherrie (Jeff) White, of Cave Spring, Ga.; sons and daughters-in-law, Michael (Vickie) Sholtz and Jeff (Susan) Sholtz, all of LaFayette; sisters and brothers-in-law, Mildred (Ray) White, of Ooltewah, Beatrice Wyrick, of Temple, Ga., Cindy (Boots) Abbott, of New Mexico; brothers and sister-in-law, Billy (Tina) Sholtz, of Ooltewah, and Virgil Sholtz, of Ringgold, Ga.; 13 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010, in the LaFayette Chapel with the Rev. Melvin Bridges, the Rev. Henry Hampton, the Rev. C.L. Harbin and the Rev. Dennis Chambers officiating.

Burial will follow in LaFayette Memory Gardens.

The family will receive friends after 5 p.m. today and prior to the service on Saturday at the funeral home.

The family would also like to thank staff and doctors of Hospice of Chattanooga for their care and support during this time.

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

William Shourd Jr.

WILDWOOD -- William Clyde "Bud" Shourd Jr., 74, departed this life Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010.

He drove a truck for 27 years before he opened Midway Lumber Co. in Valley Head and Powell, Ala., and Midway Sales and Midway Services in Wildwood, Ga., and was a member of We Rock Off Road Club and Scenic City 4 Wheel Drive Club.

He was born in Chattanooga to the late William and Clella Shourd.

Survivors include his loving wife of 57 years, Clara Shourd, of Wildwood; sons, Richard (Sandra) Shourd, of Cleveland, Tenn., Michael (Jerri) Shourd, of Wildwood; brother, John (Lei Lani) Shourd, of Pinson, Ala.; grandchildren, Matt Shourd, Brandon (Miranda) Shourd, both of Cleveland, Tenn., Lauren and Sara Shourd, both of Wildwood; mother-in-law, Beulah Townson, of Tiftonia, several nieces and nephews; and best friend for 47 years, Neal Evans, of Crossville, Tenn.

Services will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010, in the chapel with Pastor Grady Davidson officiating.

Interment will follow in Lakewood Memory Gardens West.

Family will receive friends after 5 p.m. today, and prior to the service Saturday.

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

Merle Stewart

ROSSVILLE -- Merle Stewart 87, died Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, in a local hospital.

He was a son of the late Harry H. and Matilda Mitchell Stewart.

Mr. Stewart had lived through-out the world and was retired from the United States Air Force after 20 years of service. After his military career, Mr. Stewart served as an insurance agent with National Life and Accident Insurance Co. and was a member of the American Legion Blair Post 95 in East Ridge.

Mr. Stewart was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy Scott Stewart; sisters, Virginia Stewart Eaker and Mildred Stewart Brown; and a nephew, Ronald Stewart.

Survivors are nephew, David Stewart Eaker, Knoxville; niece, Linda Brown Holland, Macon, Ga.; stepdaughter, Mary Ann Crowe, Alpharetta, Ga.; sister-in-law, Betty Templeton Stewart.

Graveside services will be 11 a.m. today at National Cemetery with Berryfield Honor Guard officiating.

Visit www.Heritagefh.com to share words of comfort to the family.

There will be no visitation at the funeral home. Family and friends are asked to meet at the cemetery.

Arrangements by the Heritage Funeral Home & Crematory Battlefield Parkway.

Robert Tipton

Robert D. Tipton, 81, of Chattanooga, died Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, at his home.

Services will be held today at 1 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. David Tipton officiating.

Interment will be in National Cemetery with military honors.

Visit www.heritagefh.com to share words of comfort to the family and view the memorial tribute.

The family will receive friends from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. today at Heritage Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 7454 East Brainerd Road.

Icia Williams

ROSSVILLE -- Icia Motley Williams, 94, died Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010, in a local hospital.

She was a member of Mission Ridge Baptist Church and was the former wife of the late Charles Motley. Mrs. Williams was also preceded in death by her son, Charles Jack Motley. After retiring, she moved to Florida and traveled extensively, before moving back to North Georgia.

Survivors are daughters, Lois (Hurdist) Nolen, Rossville, Joanne (Donald) Evitt, Nokomis, Fla.; grandchildren, Charles Motley, Paul Motley, Steve Motley, Jimmy Motley, Charese Veal, Hope Burns, Todd Nolen and Craig Gilbreath; several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Sunday in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Ted Verville officiating.

Interment will be in Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park.

Visit www.heritagefh.com to share words of comfort with the family and view the memorial tribute.

The family will receive friends from 2-8 p.m. Saturday at Heritage Funeral Home, Battlefield Parkway.

ALABAMA

Idenia Bailey

RAINSVILLE -- Idenia Bailey, 87, of Indianapolis, Ind., formerly of Rainsville, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010, in Indianapolis.

Funeral service will be 1 p.m. today, Feb. 5, from W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Burial in Mountain View Memory Gardens.

Clay Burns

CROSSVILLE -- Clay Elliott Burns, 26, passed away Tuesday, Feb 2, 2010, at his residence.

Funeral service at 2 p.m. today from New Canaan Baptist Church.

Burial in the adjoining cemetery.

W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel in charge.

Welborn Matthews Sr.

VALLEY HEAD -- Retired Lt. Col. Welborn LaRoy "Pete" Matthews Sr., Army of the United States, passed away Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010, at Valley Head.

He was born on May 3, 1928, in Birmingham, Ala., to John Thomas Matthews and Mabel McCaleb Matthews. He was a 1946 graduate of Holtville High School, Deatsville, Ala. He served as a Seaman 1st Class in the U.S Navy 1946-48; he was at the Bureau of Naval Personnel, Washington, D.C., 1946-47, and served on year abroad the Flagship USS Estes AGC12 of the 7th Pacific Fleet, homeport Tsingtao, China 1947-48.

He married Patsy LaJean Hammond on Nov. 23, 1949 at Coosada Baptist Church, Middlebrook, Ala. They were married 60 years at the time of his death. President Harry S. Truman signed the Field Artillery Commission of 2nd Lt. Matthews in 1952, the year he received a degree in agriculture from A.P.I. (Auburn University). He was an Alpha Gamma Rho.

Matthews was Executive Officer of Artillery Combat Development Command, Fort Sill, Okla., when he retired after 23 years -- 20 active duty. He earned awards and commendations including: Combat Infantryman Badge; Legion of Merit; Bronze Star Medal; World War II Victory Medal; National Defense service Medal w/Oak Leaf Cluster; Korean Service Medal; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; United Nations Service Medal; Armed Forces Reserve Medal; Vietnam Service Medal; Korean Defense Service Medal; Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Silver Star; Vietnam Medal of Honor (First Class); and the Good Conduct Medal (Navy).

His postings overseas consisted, in part, of Basic Artillery Officer's Course; Air Artillery Observer's Course, Counter Insurgency School; Artillery Missile Advanced Course; ROTC Professor's Readiness School; and the Command and General Staff College.

Matthews was commander of a basic training company, Camp Chaffee, AR. 1953; Battery Commander 297th Artillery Korea 1954 -55; Battery Commander 27th Field Artillery of 1st Armored Div, Fort Hood, Texas and Camp Polk, LA., Battery Commander; 1st How, 14th Armored Cav. Regt, Fulda, Germany 1954 -60.; Professor of Military Science and tactics Florida Southern College, Lakeland, Fla.; Deputy Sr. Sector Advisor Bien Hoa, Vietnam; Executive Officer- Artillery Combat Developments command, Fort Still, Okla.

GS12 Matthews had a 17 year career with the United States Department of Agriculture 1971-88. He was Assistant Farmers Home Administration County Supervisor in Dale, Morgan, Lawrence, and DeKalb Counties, Ala. He served as a County Supervisor in Fayette, Marion and DeKalb Counties, Ala.

He was a Scoutmaster for Lake Morton United Methodist Church Troop 361. He was on the Board of Stewards of Lake Morton United Methodist Church, Lakeland Fla.

He was baptized and confirmed as a member of Valley Head United Methodist Church on Oct. 7, 1957. He was a communicant at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Chattanooga, at the time of his death.

He held memberships in Kiwanis; Master Mason, Mt. Scott Lodge, Lawton, Okla.; Honorary Kentucky Colonel; Landmarks of DeKalb; the Lookout Mountain Fairyland Club; Gulf Shores, Ala. Tennis Club; Life member Auburn Golden Eagles; Life member 14th Armored Cavalry Regiment Organization; Fort Payne VFW; The National Philip Hammond Family Association; The Disabled Vietnam Veterans; and The Underhill society.

"Colonel" is survived by his wife, Jean; daughter, Leslie (Jim) Bunch; grandchildren: Kelly Jane Bunch; West Point Cadet J.E.B. Bunch Jr.; daughter-in-law, Carolyn Fitzgerald Matthews; grandchildren, Carrie Matthews Tidwell (Brett) and Katie Matthews Sparkman (Jeremy); and two great-grandchildren, Ella and Matthews Tidwell.

Welborn was preceded in death by his son, Welborn L. "Chip" Matthews Jr.; (Oct. 5, 1950-Feb. 11, 2000). His parents: his stepfather, John Henry Smith Sr. and Mabel McCaleb Matthews Smith; stepbrother, Eastern Airlines Captain John Henry "Dixon" Smith Jr. (Ouida); sister, Jewell Clydene Morgan (Late James Hines Sr.); and brother, Glendon Matthews.

A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010, at 12:30 p.m. CST at Burt Funeral Home Chapel, Valley Head.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon CST Saturday prior to the service.

Officiants: The Rev. Dr. Timothy Randolph Smith; Alpha Gammo Rho Brother, The Rev. Dr. Belon Friday and The Rev. Dr. Jack Bailey.

Pallbearers: Jim Bunch, J.E.B. Bunch, James Hines Morgan, Jr., David Glen Morgan, Harry Kenneth Hammond Jr., and James Leak Hammond. Honorary Pallbearers; Lowell Barron, Seth Hammett, Kenneth Hammond Sr., Patrick Henery Tate, Donald Ray Morgan, Charles Hester Jr., Dr. Ira Gore Jr., Dr. George S. Bacon and MG James Pocock, Ronnie Jones, Alva Marshall Hammond and Dr. Ralph Charles Hammond.

Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery on March 16, 2010 at 9 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family request memorials be sent to The Valley Head Cemetery Association, c/o The Citizens Bank of Valley Head, P.O. Box 147, Valley Head, AL 35989, where a Valley Head Cemetery Association Discretionary Fund will be established In Memoriam in the name of Lt. Col. (R) Welborn L. Matthews Sr.

Percy Wordlaw Sr.

STEVENSON -- Percy Lee Wordlaw Sr. passed away Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, at Huntsville Hospital.

Service will be Sunday, Feb. 7, at 2 p.m. CST at Rudders Funeral Home, Stevenson.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral time.

Interment will be at Stevenson Community Cemetery.

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