Ben H. Brackett, 91, Rossville

Ben H. Brackett of Rossville died on Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012. He was 91.

He was a native of Cohutta and spent most of his life in the north Georgia area. He was an active member of Parkway Baptist Temple. He served honorably in the United States Coast Guard during World War II. After serving his country, he returned to the Rossville area and spent many years in the paint business of DeVoe Paint Center on Rossville Boulevard.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel F. Brackett Sr. and Edna Hair Brackett; brothers, Raymond, Edwin and Dan Brackett; sister, Sarah Calloway; first wife, Eunice Parker Brackett; second wife, Juanita Langford Howerton; and step-granddaughter, Emily Fewell.

Survivors include his wife, Bobbie Bracket; daughter, Cindy Haley Brotherton; grandchildren, Kyle Haley and Krista (Shay) Davis; brothers, Bill (Jeanie) Brackett and Jim (Jimmie Ann) Brackett; sisters-in-law, Betty Brackett and Faye Brackett; stepchildren, Dennis (Penny) Howerton, Cindy (Byrom) Fewell, Ed (Connie) Howerton, Tami (Larry) Askew; step-grandchildren, Andrew Howerton, Colin Howerton, Clay and Laura Fewell, Joshua and Lauryl Brisson; and several loving nephews and nieces.

Funeral services: Sunday, Feb. 26 at 2 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. David Sampson officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens South. Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 25 from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Ray P. Drigans, 56, Chickamauga

Ray P. Drigans of Chickamauga died on Friday, Feb. 24, 2012 at his sister’s home in Tampa, Fla. He was 56.

He was a lifelong resident of the Walker County area and had just recently moved to the Tampa area. He was of the Protestant faith, was well known throughout the Chattanooga area as an accomplished musician and had played with several local bands during his life. He never met a stranger and was loved by everyone he had ever met. He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Telitha “Dude” and Sam R. Drigans.

Survivors include his wife, Martha Drigans of Tampa, Fla.; stepdaughter in the Chattanooga area; sisters, Judy Dodson of Chickamauga, and Carol Ayala of Lutz, Fla.; brother, Sammy J. Drigans of Inglis, Fla.; and several nieces and nephews.

Services and burial were held privately. Announced by W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Inez Ganell DeAngelo Labbous, 89, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Inez Ganell DeAngelo Labbous of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012. She was 89.

She was born June 6, 1922, the second child of the late George and Minnie Couch DeAngelo of Moss Point, Miss. She had been a parishioner at St. Gerard Catholic Church in Fort Oglethorpe and St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Moss Point, Miss., for many years. She graduated from Erlanger School of Nursing in 1972 and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Salem Ellis Labbous, Sr.; son, Salem Ellis Labbous, Jr.; two brothers, Elwood and Ray DeAngelo; two sisters-in-law, Grace DeAngelo and Jimmy Lou DeAngelo; and granddaughter, Jackie Labbous.

Survivors include children and grandchildren, Gloria L. Templin of Chattanooga, Tenn., and (Tony, Jeff, Keith and Anthony), Johnny G. and (Pat) Labbous of Goodlettsville, Tenn., and (Stephanie and Rachel); daughter-n-law, Barbara Niedermeyer of Nashville, Tenn., and (Jackie, Angie and John); stepdaughter, Stacey Hicks of Rome and (Hank, Grant and Ella); several great-grandchildren and several loving nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be announced by Holder-Wells Funeral Home, 4007 Main Street, Moss Point, Miss. 39562 (228)475-2112. The family would like to extend a special thanks to the doctors and staff at Avalon Hospice for their loving care and compassion for Mrs. Labbous over the past few years. Announced by W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Troy Dale Dickson, 86, Crossville, Tenn.

Troy Dale Dickson, a native of Catoosa County, died Jan. 29, 2012 at his daughter’s home in Crossville, Tenn. He was 86.

He was the oldest child of the late John “Alec” and Lucille Dickson; and the brother of the late Paul Dickson and Carl Dickson, all of Ringgold. He served 8 years in the Navy and 23 years in the Air Force from 1943–1974, as a Master Sergeant in the Intelligence Division.

Survivors include two daughters, Julia (Richard) Nichols of Crossville, Tenn., and Frieda (Larry) Von Werssowetz of Hewitt, N.J.; three grandsons, two granddaughters and one great-grandson; sisters, Barbara (Bob) Shields, Wilma (Bud) Scott, Audrey (Bill) Collison, Martha (Jack) Baggett, and Linda Dickson, all of Ringgold and Doris (Bill) Pitts of Tunnel Hill.

Funeral services: military tribute at the Catoosa Citizens and Veterans Memorial at the Colonnade in Ringgold, Friday, March 9 at 3 p.m., or in case of rain, at the VFW on Park City Road in Fort Oglethorpe. Memorial contributions may be made to any learning center or library for children’s books.

Debbie Darlene Sanders, 51, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Debbie Darlene Sanders of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Sunday, Feb. 26, 2012. She was 51.

Survivors include her husband, Richard Sanders; parents, B.R. and Wanda McCoy of Tiftonia, Tenn.; son, John Bostic of Chattanooga, Tenn.; sisters, Janice Evans of Ooltewah, Tenn., and Kim McCoy of Tiftonia, Tenn.; brother, Billy Ray McCoy II of Apison, Tenn.; grandson, Gabriel Lawson; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Wednesday, Feb. 29 at 2 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial: LaFayette Cemetery. Visitation: Tuesday, Feb. 28 from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Katherine Elizabeth Long, 83, Rossville

Katherine Elizabeth Long of Rossville died Monday, Feb. 27, 2012. She was 83.

She was born in Rossville to the late Bert and Nannie Long. She played the organ at Flintstone Baptist Church for several years and was a member of First Baptist Church in Chickamauga. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Harry, Edwin, Jack, and Winfred Long; sisters, Frances Hudson and Thelma Foster.

Survivors include her sisters, Lucille Long of Rossville, Mary Ross of Fort Payne; brother, J.B. Long of Rossville; and many nieces and nephews.

Graveside services: Wednesday, Feb. 29 at 1 p.m. at Chattanooga Valley Baptist Church cemetery. Visitation: Tuesday, Feb. 28 from 4 until 8 p.m. and prior to the service on Wednesday at the funeral home. Arrangements: W. L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Kellin Elijah Vann, infant, Chickamauga

Infant Kellin Elijah Vann of Chickamauga died Monday, Feb. 27, 2012.

Survivors include his mother, Emerlie Vann; grandparents, Donna Vann, Juan Vann; great grandparents, Wanda and Walter Housley, Charlotte Hollingsworth; and aunt, Savannah Vann all of Chickamauga.

Funeral services: Thursday, March 1, 2012 at noon in the chapel with Shad Smith officiating. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Thursday, March 1 from 10 a.m. until service time at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home-Fort Oglethorpe.

Susan Lynette Greene, 54, Rock Spring

Susan Lynette “Lynne” Green of Rock Spring died on Monday, Feb. 27 at her residence. She was 54.

She was born in Trion on March 18, 1957, beloved daughter of Robert J. Greene and Evelyn Jackson Greene. She was a graduate of West Georgia College having earned a biology degree and a master’s degree in education. She was employed with Georgia Northwestern Technical College and was a member of the South Summerville Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, P.A. and Clara Greene and Paul Edward Jackson.

Survivors include her parents, Bob and Evelyn Greene; grandmother, Bertha Jackson; special nieces, MacKenzie and Savannah Greene; aunt and uncles, Fred and Sarah Greene of Woodstock and Dan and Melissa Greene of Griffin; cousins, Karen West, Angie Hughes, Danny Greene, Joshua Shadrick and several other cousins.

Funeral services: Thursday, March 1 at 3 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Revs. David Craven and Richard Dendler officiating. Burial: West Hill Cemetery. Visitation: Wednesday, Feb. 29 from 6 until 8 p.m. Pallbearers: Danny Greene, Todd Hughes, Justin Hughes, Josh Shadrick, Darrell Greene and Caleb Willingham. Honorary pallbearers: Jim Fowler, Sylvia Kestler and all employees of Georgia Northwestern Technical College. An online guestbook is available at: www.masonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements: Mason Funeral Home, Summerville.

Martha Leona Barnes Cain, 76, Ringgold

Martha Leona Barnes Cain of Ringgold died Monday, Feb. 27, 2012, at her home. She was 76.

She was a lifelong resident of Ringgold and was a homemaker. She was a member of Burning Bush Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Arthur LeBron “Art” Cain; son, Terry L. Cain; parents, Jesse and Kitty Pedigo Barnes; sisters, Jo Adkins and Zora Lee; brother, Buddy Barnes.

Survivors include a grandson, Philip Cain; great-granddaughter, Katie Cain, both of LaFayette; brother, Ray (Brenda) Barnes of Rock Spring; sisters, L.E. Sims of Ringgold, Louise (Roy Lee “Buck”) Coker of Rock Spring; daughter-in-law, Kathleen Cain, LaFayette; step-grandson, Joe Stewart, of Ringgold; five step-great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Marion F. “Doc” (Carol) Cain of Chattanooga, Tenn.; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; and caregiver, Heather Burgess.

Funeral services: Thursday, March 1 at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Dennis McNulty and Colin Crosen officiating. Burial: Burning Bush Cemetery. Visitation: Wednesday, Feb. 29 from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Burning Bush Baptist Church Building Fund, 2195 Burning Bush Road, Ringgold, Ga. 30736 or the Georgia Baptist Children’s Home, 9250 Hutcheson Ferry Rd., Palmetto, Georgia 30268. An online guestbook is available at: www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.



Bonnie Ruth Bennett, 76, LaFayette

Bonnie Ruth Bennett of LaFayette died Monday, Feb. 20, 2012. She was 76.

She was a member of Ridgeview Baptist Church of LaFayette.

She was preceded in death by husband, Walter Richard Bennett.

Survivors include daughter, Crystal and husband, Raymond Wheaton of Coffee Springs, Ala.; sons, Ronald and wife, Charlotte Bennett of LaFayette, Craig and wife, Judy Bennett of Santa Rose, Fla., and Kenneth Bennett of Ashford, Ala.; sister, Darlene Nichols of LaFayette; granddaughter, Chilo Reynolds; seven grandsons; and several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Wednesday, Feb. 22, at 11 a.m. with service conducted by Rev. Garland Hullender. Burial: La Fayette Cemetery. Visitation: Tuesday, Feb. 21, from 6-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Ben H. Brackett, 91, Rossville

Ben H. Brackett of Rossville died Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012, at his home surrounded by his family. He was 91.

He was a native of Cohutta, but spent most of his life in the north Georgia area. He was an active member of Parkway Baptist Temple. Mr. Brackett served honorably in the United States Coast Guard during World War II. After serving his country he returned to the Rossville, area and spent many years in the paint business at DeVoe Paint Center on Rossville Boulevard.

He was preceded in death by his parents Daniel F. Brackett Sr. and Edna Hair Brackett; brothers, Raymond, Edwin and Dan Brackett; and sister Sarah Calloway; first wife, Eunice Parker Brackett; second wife, Juanita Langford Howerton; and step-granddaughter, Emily Fewell.

Survivors include his wife, Bobbie Brackett; daughter, Cindy Haley Brotherton; grandchildren, Kyle Haley and Krista (Shay) Davis; brothers, Bill (Jeanie) Brackett, and Jim (Jimmie Ann) Brackett; sisters-in-law, Betty Brackett and Faye Brackett; step-children, Dennis (Penny) Howerton, Cindy (Byrom) Fewell, Ed (Connie) Howerton, Tami (Larry) Askew; step-grandchildren, Andrew Howerton, Colin Howerton, Clay and Laura Fewell, Joshua and Lauryl Brisson; as well as several loving nephews and nieces.

Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Funeral service: Sunday, Feb. 26, at 2 p.m. at the funeral home with the Dr. David Sampson officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens South. Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 25, from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Catherine Ann Ellis, 52, Lookout Mountain/Ringgold

Catherine Ann Ellis formerly of Lookout Mountain, currently residing in Ringgold, died Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012, in a local hospital. She was 52.

She was of the Baptist faith and preceded in death by her father, Carl S. Ellis.

Survivors include her mother, Alberta Higdon Ellis, Ringgold; sisters, Wanda (Willie) Slack, of Wildwood, and Sandra Ellis of Ringgold; three nieces, Brandy McRoy, Mindy Slack and Selina

Slack; one great niece, Elizabeth McRoy; two great-nephews, Elijah Merritt and Noah Merritt.

Per Catherine’s request, there will be no services or visitation at the funeral home. The family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Clearview Baptist Church, 2183 Dietz Road, Ringgold, GA 30736. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home, Battlefield Parkway.

Dorothy “Dot” Mae Green, 76, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Dorothy “Dot” Mae Green of Chattanooga, Tenn. died Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012. She was 76.

She was a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga area where she was a past president and member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ronnie Green; sisters, Rena Shaver and Lillian Lamb; and three brothers, Bill, E.H., and Don Painter.

Survivors include her two sisters, Marty Hartsfield of Decatur, Ala. and Colleen Humphrey of La Porte, Ind.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com.

Graveside services: Friday, Feb. 17, at 12:30 p.m. at the Chattanooga National Cemetery. Visitation: Friday, Feb. 17, from 11 a.m. until 12 noon at the funeral home. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Bill Harris, 79, Rossville

Bill Harris of Rossville died Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012, in a local hospital. He was 79.

Mr. Harris was born in Etowah, Tenn. on April 16, 1920. He enlisted in the U. S. Army on Dec. 2, 1941 and received an honorable discharge on Nov. 16, 1945. He re-enlisted in the U. S. Air Force on November 30, 1948 and retired from active duty on June 29, 1965. He began a career with the U. S. Postal Service and retired as Post Master in Rossville. He lived in California until his retirement from the U. S. Air Force and settled in Rossville where he lived for many years. He was a member of Scott Memorial Church of God where he was involved with the choir and youth ministries. In later years he attended Grove Level Baptist Church in Dalton, where he and his wife had lived for the last 10 years. He was affiliated with several veterans associations and was a member of the Chattanooga Woodsmen of the World.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Marie Lula Harris and several brothers and sisters.

Survivors include two brothers, Holliway and Manker Harris; brother-in-law, Robert and his wife Sue Pickelsimer; other sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law; nieces and nephews; special nieces, Angie (Chris) Graves and Tiffany and Whittney Graves.

Graveside services: Monday, Feb. 27, at 2:30 p.m. in the Chattanooga National Cemetery with the Pastor Jim Bennett officiating. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Sandra Jo Newberry Maynor, 61, Ringgold

Sandra Jo Newberry Maynor of Ringgold died Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012, surrounded by her family. She was 61.

A lifelong resident of the Ringgold area, she was a member of Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church and was a former employee of Long Mercedes of Chattanooga where she worked for 12 years. Sandra was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Henery and Betty Francis Ashley Newberry.

Survivors include her loving husband of 43 years, William “Bill” Maynor of Ringgold; daughter, April Garrett of Whitwell, Tenn.; son and daughter-in-law, Tyler and Amy Maynor of Rock Spring; sister, Karen Newberry (Jeff Hoffinger) of Ringgold; five grandchildren, Meagan Morris (Keith Smith), Haley Garrett, Madalyn “Maddie” Garrett, Alexandria Maynor and Tanner Maynor; and a large extended family.

Funeral services: Saturday, Feb. 25, at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Friday, Feb. 24, from 3-9 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 25, until funeral time at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Ringgold.

Beulah Morgan Rayburn, 91, Rossville

Beulah Morgan Rayburn of Rossville died Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012, at her daughter’s residence in Cleveland, Tenn. He was 91.

She was a native of McMinn County, Tenn., but had lived the greater part of her life in the Rossville area. Mrs. Rayburn was a member of English Avenue Baptist Church and loved to quilt and sew.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Mary Alice Morgan; husband, Rev. Arnold Rayburn; granddaughter, Donna Randolph Riddle; son-in-law, Bobby Randolph; brothers, Robert, Jay, Lester and Billy Morgan; and sisters, Bess Johnson, Bertie Fry and Virginia Ray.

Survivors include her sister, Jewell Burnett of Ft. Oglethorpe; children, Bobby Jack Rayburn, Frankie and Willis Sliger, all of Athens, Tenn., Sonny and Darlette Rayburn, and Mary Grace Randolph of Cleveland, Tenn., Jerry and Marilyn Rayburn of Immokalee, Fla., and Rev. David and Brenda Rayburn of LaFayette; special nieces that she raised, Betty Stanfield and Linda Berryhill; 15 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; and 23 great-great-grandchildren are left to cherish her memory.

Funeral services: Friday, Feb. 24, at 1 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Paul McBryar officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens, South. Pallbearers: Shane Rayburn, Richard Randolph, Michael Randolph Jr., Bobby Randolph, II, Paul Sliger and Donnie Sliger. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Visitation: Thursday, Feb. 23, from 5–8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home, Rossville.

Charlotte Kay Todd, 70, Summerville

Charlotte Kay Todd of Summerville died Monday morning, Feb. 20, 2012, at her residence. She was 70.

She was born in Chattooga County on May 20, 1041. She was the daughter of the late Robert Johnson and the late Clara Hammitt Smith. She was a member of the Pennville Church of Christ and a Beautician.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Robert Alvin Johnson; and nephew, Danny Johnson.

Survivors include her husband, John M. Tood; sons and daughter-in-law, Jeff and Cindy Tood of Summerville, John Tood Jr. of Summerville, Britt Todd of Summerville; daughters and son-in-law, Secret and Phil Ingle of Trion, Tara and Joey Jones of Trion; sisters, Jackie Cain of Cloudland and Rita Brown of Cartersville; brothers, Terry Johnson of Summerville and Tony Johnson of Trion; grandchildren, Mandy Todd, Molly Todd, Levi Hatcher, Taylor Hatcher, Brier Ingle, Brittany Graham, Tabitha Todd, Budd Todd, Hayden Jones, Landson Jones, Austyn Todd, Jarin Blevins, Daniel Blevins, Ashley Blevins, and Logan Blevins; great grandchildren, Charli Todd, Cali and Cash Graham, Danalee Lively, Mylee and Brandlei Blevins; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Wednesday, Feb. 22, at 2 p.m. from the Pennville Church of Christ with Min. Robby Eversole and Jeff Todd officiating. Burial: Greenhills Memory Garden. Pallbearers: Britt Todd, John Todd Jr., Austyn Todd, Levi Hatcher, Landon Jones, Terry Johnson, and Tony Johnson. Visitation: Tuesday, Feb. 21, from 6-8 p.m. at Pennville Church of Christ. Arrangements: Earle Rainwater Funeral Home, Summerville.

James Henry Walthall, 85, LaFayette

James Henry Walthall of LaFayette died Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012. He was 85.

He was born to the late Wilbur Walthall and Lena Walthall Von Perbandt in Princeton, W.V. on May 8, 1926. He retired from the Mercer County School District where he taught and coached at Haywood High School. James was a Veteran of the United States Army, graduated from West Virginia University where he lettered in football, basketball and baseball. He received a total of seven letters while at West Virginia University and was also named a two time Amateur Athlete of the Year in West Virginia and inducted into the West Virginia University Sports Hall of Fame in 2000.

Survivors include his wife, Dot Brewster Walthall of LaFayette; son, James “Jamie” Walthall of Morgantown, W.V.; step-children, Sheila (J.C.) Meyer of Clearwater, Fla., Mary (George) Dunagan of West Union, S.C., Horace C. Brewster Jr. of Longbeach, Calif., Bobby (Woody) Brewster of LaFayette; brother, Earl Walthall of St. Augustine, Fla.; sister, Betty Gates of Princeton, W.V.; several grandchildren; great grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be private. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, LaFayette.

Evelyn I. Robertson, 93, Ringgold

Evelyn I. Robertson of Ringgold died Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012, at a local hospital. She was 93.

She was A native of Greenville, S.C., she has lived in the Ringgold area for the past 60 years and was formerly of Chattanooga, Tenn. She was a retired employee of Ringgold Telephone Company where she worked for 26 years and was a member of the Ringgold United Methodist Church where she was a member of the F.O.B. Sunday School Class.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Sam H. Robertson; parents, Homer and Lois Minor Igou; grandson, Roger L. Abney Jr.; sister, Emily Jo Echols; and two brothers, Jim and Frank Igou.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Janice and Glen Watson of Chattanooga, Tenn.; two grandchildren, Lynn Lepcio (Thad) of Ooltewah, Tenn., and Glen C Watson III (Marcia) of Franklin, Tenn.; two great grandchildren, Emily Abney of Chattanooga, Tenn. and Teddy Lepcio of Ooltewah, Tenn.; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Sunday, Feb. 19, at 2:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. John Purrington officiating. Burial: Anderson Memorial gardens. Visitation: Sunday, Feb. 19, from 12:30–2:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home Wallis, Ringgold.

Lillie Mae Hunt, 91, Trion

Lillie Mae Hunt of Trion died Monday, Feb. 20, 2012, at Redmond Regional Medical Center. She was 91.

She was born on May 1, 1920, in Dekalb County, Ala. She was a homemaker and a member of the Corinth Baptist Church, where she was a Sunday School Teacher, sang in the choir and the chorus, and was officer in the Ladies Mission Group.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Chester Hunt; parents, James and Eula Baker Evans; brother, Grady Evans; sisters, Minnie Bowlin, Beatrice Parker, and Jesse Hearlson.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, James and Linda Hunt of Summerville, and Chester and Gail Hunt of Trion; grandchildren, Chad Hunt, Nick Hunt, Adam Hunt, Nicole Hunt, and Penni Ware; eight great grandchildren; special niece, Betty Ridley; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Wednesday, Feb. 22, at 1 p.m. from the chapel of the Erwin-Petitt Funeral Home with Rev. Jimmy Weaver officiating. Burial: Summerville Cemetery. Visitation: Tuesday, Feb. 21, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Pallbearers: Chris Russell, Scotty Russell, Eugene Ridley, Steve Barnes, Dennis Lindsey, and Mike Ware. Honorary pallbearers: Gold Leaf Apartments of Trion members of the Corinth Baptist Church and members of the West Summerville Baptist Church. Arrangements: Erwin-Petitt Funeral Home, Summerville.

IvaLee Benefield Carlock, 86, Ringgold

IvaLee Benefield Carlock of Ringgold died Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012. She was 86.

A resident of Ringgold area for the past 60 years, she was formerly of Chattanooga, Tenn. She had been a member of Boynton Church for over 50 years and was currently a member of Pine Grove Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Don Carlock; parents, Herbert and Lottie Benefield and brother, Clyde Benefield.

Survivors include her son, Donald Carlock Jr. of Harrison, Tenn.; daughters and sons-in-law, Carolyn and Edwin Tucker of Ringgold and Patricia and Ted Nave of Chattanooga, Tenn.; two granddaughters, Leah Tucker of Tyler, Texas and Katie Nave and fiance, Morgan J. Freeman of New York City, N.Y.; sister, Inze Barbee of Chattanooga, Tenn.; sister-in-law, Ann Benefield; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Friday, February 24, in the funeral home chapel with Dr. Keith McLeod officiating. Burial: Chattanooga National Cemetery. Visitation: Thursday, Feb. 23, from 5-9 p.m. and Friday, Feb. 24, until the funeral time at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. The family would also like to thank Rosewood Assisted Living and Hospice of Chattanooga for their care and concern. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Ringgold

Minnie Ruth Scott, 64, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Minnie Ruth Scott of Chattanooga, Tenn. died Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012, in a local hospital. She was 64.

Her passions in life were her family, baking cakes, playing pool, and Mickey Mouse. She was of the Baptist faith.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Evelyn A. Thacker and sister, Patricia Clontz.

Survivors include her husband, Rick Scott of Chattanooga, Tenn.; sons, Todd Shaw of Rossville, David Shaw of Chattanooga, and Michael Galusha of Elberton; sister, Luba Edwards of Mobile, Ala.; brother, Andrew Brock of Ringgold; nine grandchildren, Danielle, Katie, Tyler, Zoey, Jordan, Trystan, Tayuh, Bradley, and Kyle; and one great grandchild, Alex.

Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Memorial service: Sunday, Feb. 26, at 4 p.m. in the chapel. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Evelyn Ray Millican, 85, Ringgold

Evelyn Ray Millican of Ringgold died Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012, at a local hospital. She was 85

She was a Homemaker and lifelong resident of the north Georgia and Chattanooga area and a member of Flintstone Baptist Church. The focus of her life was her family and home.

Survivors include her husband of 68 years, Thomas Millican; Daughters, Debbie (John) Riddle and Audrie (Paul) Williams; grandchildren, Melody (David) Durham, Bonnie (Chris) Bruce, Emily (Peter) Fowler, Angie Williams, Zach (Marlene) Williams; 8 great-grandchildren .

Graveside services: will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday at Hamilton Memorial Gardens in Chattanooga with Rev. John Riddle officiating. The family and friends will gather at the graveside. Visit www.lane-southcrestchapel.com to send condolences.

Visitation: Friday, Feb. 24, from 4-6 p.m. at the South Crest Chapel. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, located at the foot of Historic Missionary Ridge in Rossville.

Billy Morton Hale, 78, Lookout Valley

Billy Morton “Bill” Hale of Lookout Valley died Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012, at his residence. He was 78.

Bill was born July 26, 1933 in Falling Water, Tennessee to the late William N. “Bill” and Ruby C. Hale. For more that fifty years, he held membership with Wauhatchie United Methodist Church, retired from Norfolk Southern Railway with thirty-five years of service, and was co-owner of Lookout Valley Construction Company. A graduate of Central High School Class of 1953, Mr. Hale also served two years in the U.S. Navy.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 58 years, Doris Hixson Hale; sons, Tim (Kim) Hale and Terry Hale; brother, Ronald (Linda) Hale; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Saturday, Feb. 25, at 12:00 noon at Wauhatchie United Methodist Church with Pastor Bill Akers officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens, West. Mr. Hale will lie-in-state from 11:00 a.m. until the funeral hour Saturday at the church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Wauhatchie United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, 3401 Cummings Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37419. To share expressions of sympathy, visit www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Visitation: Friday, Feb. 24, from 4 – 8 p.m. at the South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Allene Harris Ramsey, 94, Catoosa County

Allene Harris Ramsey died Feb. 10, 2012. She was 94.

She was a lifelong member and co-founder of Scott Memorial Church of God in East Ridge, Tenn. She was a native of McMinn County, Tenn. Most of her adult life was spent in Catoosa County. She lovingly taught elementary school for 36 years at Boynton Elementary School, where she was selected teacher of the year. She was a graduate of Berry College.

She is preceeded in death by her late husband of 65 years, Granville Buchanan (Buck) Ramsey; her father Reverend John R. Harris and her mother Sara Elizabeth (Lizzy) Harris; two sisters, Myrtle Hurd and Margaret and her deceased husband Everett O. May; two brothers, Eugene Harrs and his late wife Evelyn Harris and Arnold Harris.

Survivors include her loving and devoted son Granville Ramsey and her adored daughter-in-law Teresa; one cherished and much loved grandson, William (Bill) Ramsey of Winter Haven, Fla.; three brothers, Bill Harris of Dalton, Holiway Harris of Kissimmee, Fla., Manker Harris of Springfield, Ill.; one sister-in-law, Harriet Harris (spouse of Arnold), of Chattanooga, Tenn.

Funeral services: U.S. National Cemetery, Bushnell, Fla. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations, for her love of children, may be made to Saint Jude’s. An online guestbook is available at: www.grissomfh.com. Arrangements: Grissom Funeral Home, Kissimmee, Fla.

James W. “Junior” Veal, 80, Lookout Mountain

James W. “Junior” Veal of Lookout Mountain, the West Brow Community, died Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012 at his residence. He was 80.

He was a native of DeKalb County, Ala., and had spent most of his life on Lookout Mountain. He was retired from Planters, Inc., and from Modern Maid following many years of service, and he loved spending time with his family and fishing. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather and was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Mary Veal, and half-sister, Inez Castro.

Survivors include his wife, Bernice Raley Veal; son, Ray Veal of Lookout Mountain; daughters and sons-in-law, Connie and Dean Smitherman of Woodland, Ala., and Robin and Kim Nordquist of LaFayette; half-sister, Mary Ellen Wilks; half-brother, Billy Veal, both of Lookout Mountain; step-brother, LeVon Raley; step-sisters, Ruby Butler and Jessie Brown; six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Monday, Feb. 27 at 1 p.m. at the funeral home with Bro. Dean Smitherman officiating. Burial: Mount Olive Cemetery, Lookout Mountain. Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 25 from 5-8 p.m. and all day Sunday at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, located at the end of historic Missionary Ridge, Rossville.

Alice Hudson Graham, 78, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Alice Hudson Graham of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012. She was 78.

She was born in Madison County, Fla., to the late Kester and Vera Reeder, and had lived in the Chattanooga area for most of her life. She was of the Methodist faith, enjoyed cooking and was completely devoted to her family.

She was also preceded in death by her husband, Charles Richard Graham and brother, William Reeder.

Survivors include her son, Rod Graham of East Ridge, Tenn., daughters and son-in-law, Marilyn and Roger Brown of Memphis, Tenn. and Sharon Graham Colbaugh of Harrison, Tenn.; sister, Mary Hollingshead of Lewissville, Texas; eight grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Tuesday, Feb. 28 at the funeral home with Bro. Mike King officiating. Burial: Chattanooga National Cemetery. Visitation: Sunday, Feb. 26 after 5 p.m. and all day Monday and prior to the services on Tuesday at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Homes, Fort Oglethorpe.

Rebecca “Becky” Louise Warren, 81, Fort Oglethorpe

Rebecca “Becky” Louise Warren of Fort Oglethorpe died Friday, Feb. 24, 2012 in a local hospital. She was 81.

She was a native of Stevenson, Ala., and had lived in Fort Oglethorpe since 1955. She was a member of Cloud Springs Baptist Church for over 30 years. She worked at Supreme Products for many years and at Miller Smith Hosiery for over ten years.

She is preceded in death by her husband, James E. Warren and her parents, Jessie and Louella Thomas of Stevenson, Ala.

Survivors include her sister, Ruth Gibson of South Pittsburgh, Tenn.; brother, Billy Thomas of Whiteside, Tenn. and Jerry Thomas of Stevenson, Ala.; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Monday, Feb. 27 at the funeral home with Rev. Matt Hall officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens, South. Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 25 from 4-8 p.m. and all day Sunday at the funeral home.

An online guestbook is available at: www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, located at the end of historic Missionary Ridge, Rossville.

Marvin Julian Hughes, Jr., 58, LaFayette

Marvin “Butch” Julian Hughes Jr. of LaFayette died Friday, Feb. 24, 2012. He was 58.

He was preceded in death by his father, Marvin Julian Hughes Sr.

Survivors include his mother, Jewel Canada of LaFayette; daughter, Natasha Dawn Ellison; sons, Christopher Eric Hughes and Ken Allen Hughes all of Anderson, S.C.; sisters, Rana Counts of Pelion, S.C., Alicia Walker and Carla Canada of LaFayette; brother, James “Jimmy” Canada of LaFayette; six grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

Graveside service: Monday, Feb. 27 at 11 a.m. in the LaFayette Cemetery. Service by Revs. George Palmer and Delbert Young. Visitation: Sunday, Feb. 26 from 6 to 9 p.m. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Glenda Faye Coats Williams, 66, Rossville

Glenda Faye Coats Williams of Rossville died Friday, Feb. 24, 2012. She was 66.

She was born in Covington, Tenn., and had resided in the northwest Georgia area for the past thirty-seven years. She had worked as a manager for CVS Pharmacy in Chatsworth, Sambo’s Restaurant in Fort Oglethorpe, Commonwealth Insurance in Chattanooga, Tenn., and Professional Land Title Agency in Rossville. She was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother who enjoyed making blankets for her family, sewing, cooking and could make the best pickles and jelly.

She is preceded in death by her father, Thomas Edwards Coats Sr.; sisters, Bettye Knepper, Patricia Lynn Skaggs; brothers, Thmas Edward Coats, Jr., Johnny Mark Coats and Michael Ray Coats.

Survivors include her husband of forty-eight years, Joseph Newton Williams of Rossville; their children and spouses, Lisa Marie and Wayne Wallin of LaFayette, William Joseph “Jay” and Melissa Williams of Chickamauga, Christy and Billy Goodwin of Key Largo, Fla., LeeAnn and Michael Minor of Chickamauga; mother, Elizabeth Marie Bridges Coats of Munford, Tenn.; sisters, Elizabeth Carolyn Sarr of Covington, Tenn., Mary Kaye Coats of Tujunga, Calif., Shannon Lee Coats of Munford, Tenn.; brother, William L. Coats of Headland, Ala.; thirteen grandchildren, one great-grandchild, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Monday, Feb. 27 at 1 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Paul O’Neal and Sam Barrett officiating. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park in Rossville. Visitation: Sunday, Feb. 26 from 3 p.m. until 9 p.m. and Monday morning prior to the service. An online guestbook is available at: www.wilsonfuneral home.com. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Homes-Fort Oglethorpe.

Ruth Lee Wright, 89, Rossville

Ruth Lee Wright of Rossville died Saturday Feb. 25, 2012, at her residence. She was 89.

She was a native of Bradley County and had lived in Rossville for the past 25 years. She was of the Church of God faith and had worked at Brown Foundry and in the Hosiery Mill industry as well as for John Smith Dairy Farms in Cleveland, Tenn.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of more than 42 years, Glenn Thomas Wright.

Survivors include her loving daughters, Jean Nichols of Rossville, Mary Burnette of Fort Oglethorpe and Betty Raines of Ala.; son, Glenn Hartness; several grandchildren, great- grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services: Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 1 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with grandchildren speaking. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens South. Visitation: Monday, Feb. 27 from 2-4 and 6-8 at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home, Battlefield Parkway

Sheryl Nix, 51, Rossville

Sheryl Nix (Hall) of Rossville died Sunday, Feb. 26, 2012 in a local health care facility. She was 51.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles R. Nix and Mandy Lee Wilson.

Survivors include her husband, Kevin Hall of Chattanooga, Tenn.; son, Cory Hall of Miami, Fla; brothers, Michael Nix of Hixson, Tenn., Tony Nix of Locust Grove; Angela Dixon of Rossville; nieces, Jessica Nix, Kimberly Nix, Alyson Atkins.

Memorial service: Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 4 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Kevin Weaver officiating. Visitation: Tuesday, Feb. 28 one-hour prior to service. An online guestbook is available at: www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory located at the end of historic Missionary Ridge, Rossville.

Jimmy Donald Sailors, 64, LaFayette

Pastor Jimmy “Jim” Donald Sailors of LaFayette died Sunday, Feb. 26, 2012. He was 64.

He pastored for thirty-one years and was currently pasturing the Resaca First Assembly of God. He has been employed with the Bank of LaFayette since 1994. He was a veteran of the United States Army, in which he served in the Vietnam War.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Herbert Sailors.

Survivors include his wife of thirty-seven years, Lavenda Sailors of LaFayette; mother, “Mama” Jean Sailors; daughter, Jeanna Sailors both of Bremen; son, James Harvey and wife Kristina Sailors of Buchanan; sister, Lisa and husband David Mayes of Bremen; brothers and their wives, Earl and Patricia Sailors of Buchanan, Gerald and Janet Sailors of Bremen, Ernie and Phyllis Sailors of Huntsville, Ala., Larry and Michelle Sailors of Dallas; grandchildren, Alissa Sailors and Jillian Sailors; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 2 p.m. at LaFayette First Baptist Church with Rev. Fred Mercers, Rev. Paul Chastain, Rev. Welton Wriston, Dave Gilbert and Rich Gwyn officiating. Burial: LaFayette Memory Gardens. Visitation: Monday, Feb. 27 from 6 – 8 p.m. and Tuesday from 1 p.m. until service time at the church. Pallbearers and honorary pallbearers are brothers and nephews. Arrangements by: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.



Alice Benford, 69, Rossville

Alice Benford of Rossville died Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012. She was 69.

She was a longtime resident of the Dewberry community. She was retired from Hutcheson Medical Center.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ossie Buchanan Sr., and Lorene Buchanan; husband, Robert Lee Benford; two brothers, Ossie (“Buster”) Buchanan Jr. and Eugene Buchanan.

Survivors include her loving family, two sons, Jarvis Benford of Rossville and Robert Benford of Chattanooga, Tenn.; two daughters, Florene (Philip) Buchanan, Eugenia Glover of Rossville; three grandchildren, Latrice McLin, Falicia (Corey) Bauldwin, Erica Buchanan; three great-grandchildren, Haleigh and Caiden Bauldwin, and Montez Stephens; two sisters, Eula Mae Harris and Deloris Harris, both of Rossville; a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Funeral Services: Saturday, Feb. 25, at 1 p.m. at New Salem Baptist Church 756 Dewberry Road, Rossville with Elder Andre Sharpe and other ministers officiating. Visitation: Friday, Feb. 24, evening at the church from 6-7 p.m. Burial: Highland Memorial Cemetery. Arrangements: Willis Funeral Home, Inc., Dalton. Online guest book is available at www.willisfuneralhomedalton.com.

Martha M. Carmon Collins, 79, LaFayette

Martha M. Carmon Collins of LaFayette died Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012. She was 79.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Collins; three brothers; and two sisters.

Survivors include her daughters, Charlotte (Calvin) Woodard of LaFayette, Faye (James) Etheridge of Chatsworth; four grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Thursday, Feb. 23, at 2 p.m. with service conducted by. Rev. W.C. Pence. Burial: LaFayette Cemetery. Visitation: Wednesday, Feb. 22, from 5-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Pallbearers: Ronnie Woodard, Jody Woodard, Ronnie Etheridge, Andy Etheridge, Andy Gideon and William Carmon Jr. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Terry Lee Headrick, 49, East Ridge, Tenn.

Terry Lee Headrick of East Ridge, Tenn., died Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012, at his residence. He was 49.

A lifelong resident of the Chattanooga, Tenn., area, he was of the Baptist faith. Terry was an avid fisherman and was a big fan of the Georgia Bulldogs.

Survivors include his daughter, Brandy Sharp (Christopher); mother, Judy Shaffer (Dan) of Ooltewah, Tenn.; father, Jerry Headrick (Trudy) of East Ridge, Tenn.; sister, Cindie “Sissy” Campbell (Larry) of Rossville; brother, Jerry Headrick (Ingrid) of Spartanburg, S.C.; three granddaughters; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 25, from 2-4 p.m. and a memorial service at 4 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Peggy Diane Roberson, 65, Ringgold

Peggy Diane Roberson of Ringgold died Friday, Feb. 17, 2012. She was 65.

She had lived in the north Georgia area for most of her life and was of the Baptist faith. She enjoyed making crafts, embroidering, crocheting, fine jewelry and antiques. She was a woman with a lot of spunk and will be sadly missed by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Ruth North; husband, Henry Roberson; sister, Velma Keys; and brother, Rodney North.

Survivors include two sons and daughter-in-law, Greg Roberson and fiancée, Martha Iglesias of Woodstock, and Joel (Tammy) Roberson of Chattanooga, Tenn.; seven grandchildren; cousins, Jane Moreland and Ferrell Greeson, Aubrey Greeson, Donna Greeson, Retha Cooper, Sharon Amos, Marchie Stoker; and aunt, Pearl North.

Funeral service and burial will be private. Visitation: Sunday, Feb. 19, from 2-5 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Archie Bryant Wallin Jr., 85, Chickamauga

Archie Bryant Wallin Jr. of Chickamauga died on Friday, Feb. 17, 2012. He was 85.

He was the son of the late Archie and Eula Cooper Wallin. Archie was an U.S. Army World War II veteran, serving as a sergeant with the 42nd Division Artillery and the 42nd Rainbow Division, during the occupation of Germany and Austria. He was a member of Parkway Baptist Temple and a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather and uncle.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Kathleen Wallin and a brother, Ralph Wallin.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Hazel Durham Wallin; daughters, Debbie Wallin Kilgore and husband, David of Chattanooga, Tenn. and Paula Wallin of Chattanooga, Tenn.; brothers, Dewey Wallin of Dalton, and Gene Wallin and wife, Erlene of LaFayette; two grandchildren, Allyson Kilgore Jones and husband, Cody of Rossville and Holly Kilgore of Redlands, Calif.; one great-grandson, Luke Andrew Jones of Rossville; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Monday, Feb. 20, at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Bill Casteel officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens, South with military honors. Visitation: Sunday, Feb. 19, from 2-4 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home, Battlefield Parkway.



James “Hurshel” Furgerson, 90, Chickamauga

James “Hurshel” Furgerson of Chickamauga died Friday, Feb. 17, 2012. He was 90.

He was born in Clebourne, Ala., to the late Luther and Jessie Crews Furgerson. He was a resident of Chickamauga for over 40 years and had previously resided in Fruit Hurst, Ala., for many years. He served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II where he received the Purple Heart. He enjoyed antique cars and beagle dogs as a pastime. He was of the Baptist faith.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Rachel Edna Abney Furgerson, and brothers, Lloyd and Hubert Furgerson.

Survivors include his daughter, Karen Furgerson of Kingville, Texas; sisters, Edna Dunn and Vivian Barker, both of Heflin, Ala.; brother, Murvel Furgerson of Fruit Hurst, Ala.; grandchildren, Shanna “Tori” and Lee Hawkins of Chickamauga, William and Kim Hinch of Fort Rucker, Ala., Vance and Beth Hinch of Bethlehem; great-grandchildren, Jaden and Maddox Hawkins, Callie Hinch; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation: Sunday, Feb. 19, from 5-9 p.m. and Monday, Feb. 20, morning until the service. Funeral services: Monday, Feb. 20, at 11 a.m. in the chapel with Rev. Joe Hardin officiating. Burial: LaFayette Memory Gardens, LaFayette. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, Chickamauga. Online register book at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com

Louise Sanders Gore, 92, Chickamauga

Louise Sanders Gore of Chickamauga died Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012. She was 92.

She was born in Lynchburg, Tenn., to the late James Stephen and Alnor Mae Hoover Gore. She loved and cared for 49 children of Chickamauga in her occupation as a babysitter for over 30 years. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who loved to spend time outside working in her flowerbeds and feeding the birds and squirrels. There was always a place at her table for the many people who enjoyed her delicious home-cooked meals over the years.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Tolbert “Tob” Gore, who was a barber in Chickamauga during the 1950s and 60s; son, Charles Gore; son-in-law, Billy Barkley; brother, Julius Sanders; sisters, Lalar Reed, Carrie Harmon, Edna Longshore and Mary Kelly.

Survivors include daughters, Bettie Barkley, Nancy DePriest; grandchildren, Neenah Miller, Deron and Kerry Gore; great-grandchildren, James and Geoffrey Miller, all of Chickamauga; sister and brother-in-law, Evone and Billy Brock of Chickamauga; brothers, Robert Sanders, Jimmy Sanders both of Shelbyville, Tenn.; several nieces and nephews, Sadie Gore Copeland of Chickamauga, Jim DePriest of Fort Hood, Texas, Terry Miller of Lookout Mountain. Those of us who knew her will always cherish the memory of her precious smile and warm hugs.

Visitation: Monday, Feb. 20, from 3-9 p.m. and Tuesday, Feb. 21, morning prior to the service. Funeral services: Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 11 a.m. in the chapel with Billy Brock and Jim DePriest officiating. Burial: Chickamauga Cemetery. Pallbearers: Thomas Dollar, Daniel Glass, Jerry Kelly, Paul Kilgore, James Miller and Eric Shelton. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations be made to T.C. Thompsons Childrens Hospital at 910 Blackford Street, Chattanooga, Tenn. 37403. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, Chickamauga. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com.

Jo Yates Garlapo, 88, Tunnel Hill

Jo Yates Garlapo of Ringgold died Thursday, Feb. 16, 2012, in a local health care facility. She was 88.

She had lived most of her life in north Georgia before moving to Naples, Fla., returning here in 2009 to be near her family. Mrs. Garlapo was a longtime member of Burning Bush Baptist Church. She was a gracious, loving, kind mother, sister, and Nana, loved by so many.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Myrtle Yates; daughters, Susan Jane Napier and Nancy Napier Abbass; husband, Ray Garlapo; sister, Gertrude Orr; brothers, Gorden, Lloyd, and Harold Yates.

Survivors include son-in-law, David J. Abbass of Naples, Fla.; brothers, Allen Yates of Ringgold, Robert (Joan) of Tunnel Hill; sisters, Sally Akins of Ringgold, Mary Colburn of Rossville, and Julia Carlock of Chickamauga; grandchildren, Erik (Ellie) Abbass of Orlando, Fla., Brittany Abbass of New York, N.Y.; great-grandchildren, Nathan Abbass and Alexa Abbass; and numerous nieces and nehews.

Funeral services: Sunday, Feb. 19, at 3:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Dennis McNulty and Colin Crossen officiating. Burial: Anderson Cemetery. Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 18, from 2-6 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 19, after noon at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Burning Bush Baptist Church Building Fund, 2195 Burning Bush Road, Ringgold, Ga. 30736. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home, Battlefield Parkway.

James Edward Pierce Sr., 93, Chickamauga

James “Jim Ed” Edward Pierce Sr. of Chickamauga died Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012. He was 93.

He was born in Trion to the late Charles P. and Emma Elsberry Pierce. He served his country in World War II in the U.S. Navy. He retired from the Electric Power Board in Chattanooga, Tenn., after more than 40 years of service. He was a member of Fellowship Baptist Church in Chickamauga. He was a member of the Forty and Eight, American Legion, I.B.E.W. Local No. 846, where he was the former president, and the Crawfish Springs Masonic Lodge F&AM No.300.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Doris Louise Sutton Pierce; brothers, Henry and Frank P. Pierce.

Survivors include his children and their spouses, James E. “Jimmy” and Louise Pierce of Georgetown, Tenn., David S. and Nancy Pierce of Chickamauga, Marta P. and Billy Slaughter of Athens; sister, Catherine Lovell of Gulfport, Miss.; grandchildren, Darla P. Chambliss, David S. Pierce Jr., Harrison Pierce, all of Chickamauga, Chris A Parrish of Athens; great-grandchildren, Zan Chambliss and Seth Chambliss, both of Chickamauga, Colton Parrish of Athens; nieces, Martha Sizemore of Chickamauga, Cathy Coleman of Gulfport, Miss.

Visitation: Tuesday, Feb. 21, from noon to 1:45 p.m. prior to the service. Funeral services: Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 2 p.m. Graveside: Chickamauga Cemetery with Reverend Charles Dixon officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Chickamauga Public Library at 306 Cove Road, Chickamauga, Georgia 30707. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, Chickamauga. Online register book at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com.

Lizzie Dulcenia Smith Watkins, 94, Villanow

Lizzie Dulcenia Smith Watkins of Villanow died Friday, Feb. 17, 2012. She was 94.

She was born on Nov. 21, 1917, to the late Leonard and Margie Pettyjohn Smith in Chattooga County. She was a member of Macedonia Baptist Church, retired manager from Fashion Craft and previously worked in sales at Owens Carpet.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Anson L. Watkins; brothers, R. C. Smith and Livvie “Bud” Smith, Arthur Smith; and sister, Orville Pope.

Survivors include brother, Horace (Evelyn) Smith of Dalton; seven nieces and a nephew.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Jim Suddath officiating. Burial: follow in Macedonia Cemetery. Visitation: Sunday, Feb. 19, from 1 p.m. until service time at the funeral home. The family requests no flowers please send donations to Macedonia Church Cemetery Fund. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, LaFayette. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com

Nellie Elizabeth Golf Bradford, 79, LaFayette

Nellie Elizabeth Golf Bradford of LaFayette died Monday, Feb. 20, 2012. She was 79.

Visitation: Wednesday, Feb. 22, at noon with a memorial service following at 1 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, LaFayette Chapel.

Beecher Wagner Faw, 90, Rossville

Rev. Beecher Wagner Faw of Rossville died Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012, in a local healthcare facility. He was 90.

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was a minister of the Word for 48 years, a resident of Rossville for over 65 years and was a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George P. and Emma Lee Faw; brother, Burleson Faw; sister, Flavul Faw; and granddaughter, Tiffany Faw.

Survivors include his wife of 70 years, Lillie Mae Faw; son, LeBron (Peggy) Faw; daughter, Lynda (Edward) Henry; grandchildren, Teneara Faw, Nikki (Rodney) Buchanan, Josh (Kelly) Henry; great-grandchildren, Isaiah and Malia Buchanan, and several nieces and nephews.

A special thanks to the staff and caregivers of NHC of Ft. Oglethorpe and also Avalon Hospice.

Funeral services: Wednesday, Feb. 22, at 11:30 a.m. in the chapel with the Rev. Jack Price officiating. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Tuesday, Feb. 21, from 4-8 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

James Lone Yarbrough Jr., 73, Rossville

James Lone Yarbrough Jr. of Rossville died Thursday, Feb. 16, 2012. He was 73.

He had lived in the Chattanooga, Tenn., and north Georgia areas for most of his life and was previously employed with Yates Bleachery as a machinist. He was best known by his friends as “Mater Man,” and loved socializing and trucks.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lone and Violet Yarbrough Sr.

Survivors include two sons, Jim Yarbrough Jr. of Nashville, Tenn., and Leonard Yarbrough of Lexington, Ill.; two daughters and son-in-law, Angela Yarbrough of Dwight, Ill., and Kimberly (Joseph) Esquivel of Chicago, Ill.; sister, Norma Causey of Rossville; several grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; cousin, Sherry Knight and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service and burial will be private. There will be no visitation at the funeral home. Arrangements: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Glenda Ruth Stults Tudor, 72, Rossville

Glenda Ruth Stults Tudor of Rossville died Thursday, Feb. 16, 2012. She was 72.

She was born in Chattanooga, Tenn., to the late Clifford Edward and Virginia Louise Wharf Stults. She had worked at the Dinner Bell Restaurant in Fort Oglethorpe in the 1950s and had been a homemaker. She had resided in Rossville, since 1957 and was of the Methodist faith.

Survivors include her husband of 54 years, Frederick Leon “Fred” Tudor, daughter and son-in-law, Angela and John Carmon of Rossville; brothers and sisters-in-law, Jim and Wanda Stults of Rossville Gene and Jean Smith of East Ridge, Tenn.; grandchildren, Thomas and Kelly Adams, Lacey Adams; great-grandchildren, Trinity and Kaitlyn Adams; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 18, from 5-9 p.m., all day Sunday, Feb. 19, and Monday, Feb. 20, until the service. Funeral services: Monday, Feb. 20, at 1 p.m. graveside at Lakewood Memory Gardens-South - Rossville. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the funeral home. Arrangements: W. L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Homes, Fort Oglethorpe.



Dorothy G. Cumbee, 88, Ringgold

Dorothy G. Cumbee of Ringgold died Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012, at her residence. She was 88.

She was a member of Peavine Baptist Church for over 25 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Sherman and Imogene Gartrell; husbands, David Champion and Herbert R. Cumbee; daughter, Jill Champion McMurrain; brother, Bud Gartrell; and grandson, Tim Howze.

Survivors include a son, Randy Cumbee of Rock Spring; three daughters, Lydia Hullender of Ringgold, Winnie Holley of Jasper, and Nancy Howze of Stockbridge; 11 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services: Sunday, Feb. 19, at 2 p.m. with Stephen Anthony, Bro. Greely Ashworth and Rev. Ricky Studdard officiating. The service will be at Peavine Baptist Church. Burial: Peavine Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Epic Center, c/o Peavine Baptist Church, P.O. Box 40, Rock Spring, Ga. 30739. Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 18, from 2-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway

Carl W. "Woody" Byrd, 86, Chattanooga/north Georgia

Carl W. "Woody" Byrd a retired Employee Benefits Consultant died Thursday, Feb. 16, 2012, in East Ridge, Tenn. He was 86.

A lifelong resident of the Chattanooga and north Georgia area, he was employed in employee and personnel management within the area of textile industry. For many years, he traveled a five-state area as a direct writing general insurance agent in the manufacturing and commercial lines and for a time operated his own insurance agency in East Ridge.

He was a decorated World War II Navy veteran serving in the Pacific Theater. During the Korean War he was recalled to active duty and served in Korea. He was a member of the National Exchange Club, Chattanooga Industrial Personnel Club, American Legion Post 95-East Ridge and Veteran of Foreign Wars Post 3670-Fort Oglethorpe.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry R. and Katie Glenn Byrd; brothers, Albert C. Byrd, Henry R. Byrd Jr., Ted T. Byrd; and sister, Evelyn Byrd Hall.

Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Viola Williams Byrd; son, Terry Alan (Brenda) Byrd of Fort Oglethorpe; daughter, Karen Byrd (Terry) Moore of Ringgold; grandsons, Justin Wayne Moore of Ringgold, Joshua Alan Moore of Ringgold; granddaughters, Shelly Byrd (Danny) Fow of Ringgold, Tara Byrd (Kenneth) Wolf of Chattanooga, Tenn.; step-grandson, Casey Riden of Rossville; four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend heartfelt appreciation to Southern Heritage Assisted Living in East Ridge for the love and compassion they shared with our father and also our mother.

Funeral services: Monday, Feb. 20, at 10:30 a.m. in the chapel of Lane Funeral Home with Rev. Kathy Howard officiating. Burial: Chattanooga National Cemetery with full military honors. Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 18, from 4-8 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 19, from 2-6 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Elizabeth Joyce King, 81, Rossville

Elizabeth Joyce King of Rossville died Thursday, Feb. 16, 2012, in a local health care facility. She was 81.

A native of DeKalb County, Ala., she had spent the greater part of her life in the Rossville area and was a member of the East Ridge Church of the Nazarene. Mrs. King was retired from Chattanooga Glass Company following many years of service as a bookkeeper.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jessie King, and son, Nathan King.

Survivors include her daughter, Ann K. Snyder of Ft. Oglethorpe; brothers, James Hunter of Mableton, Clifton Hunter of Tampa, Fla., and Thomas Hunter of Rossville; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Saturday, Feb. 18, at 11 a.m. in the South Crest Chapel. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens, South. Visitation: Friday, Feb. 17, from 4–8 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association at 7625 Hamilton Park Drive Suite 8, Chattanooga, Tenn. 37421. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Marvin Taylor “Chubby” Martin Sr., 81, Chattanooga/north Georgia

Marvin Taylor “Chubby” Martin Sr. died Tuesday, Feb. 15, 2012, in a local hospital. He was 81.

He was a native of Virginia and had lived in the Chattanooga, Tenn., and north Georgia areas for 31 years. Mr. Martin was retired from Burlington Transportation after 38 years, and had been an over the road truck driver for more than 55 years.

Survivors include his loving wife of 60 years, Sarah Wilkerson Martin; sons, Marvin “Stump” (Deb) Martin Jr. of Rossville, Michael “Chig” Martin, Marshall Scott (Erin) Martin of Brentwood, Tenn.; grandchildren, Misty Dawn Martin, Sarah-Catherine Martin, Xan Martin, Dusty Rudd, Madison Martin and McKenzie Martin.

Funeral services: Monday, Feb. 20, at 9 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Larry Fleming officiating. Burial: National Cemetery. Visitation: Sunday, Feb. 19, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, P. O. Box 840692, Dallas, Texas 75284-0692, in care of Marvin Martin. Online guest book is available at www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements: Heritage Funeral Home, Battlefield Parkway.

Aileen Vanderburg Wheeler, Flintstone

Aileen Vanderburg Wheeler of Flintstone died Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012, at her home.

She was born Oct. 11, 1911, and was longtime residents of Bessemer and McCalla, Ala., before moving to be near her daughter in Flintstone. Her 100 years were devoted to the love and care of her family. Her guidance and sense of humor will be greatly missed.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Charles T. Wheeler; brothers, Carl and Harold Vanderburg; and sister Cleo Tucker.

Survivors include her daughter, Linda (John) Brown of Flintstone; brother, Gilbert Vanderburg of Pensacola, Fla.; grandsons, Jason (Gretchen) Brown of Ringgold, Daniel (Heather) Brown of Chattanooga, Tenn.; and five great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank Hutcheson Hospice for their love, support and tender care. We couldn’t have done without you. Graveside services: Saturday, Feb. 18, at 1 p.m. at the Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 18, from 11 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.



Luellen Brown, 79, Tunnel Hill

Luellen Brown of Tunnel Hill died Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2012. She was 79.

A lifelong resident of the Catoosa County area, she was a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church and a former employee of Sweetwater Rug and of World Carpet.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ezekiel and Lue Sendy Stapp Brown, and two brothers, Joe Brown and Olie E. “Bug” Brown.

Survivors include four sisters, Sarah Inez Jones of Ringgold, Mary Eslinger, Betty Brown, and Una Brown, all of Tunnel Hill; three brothers, Paul Brown, Wilburn Brown, and Mack Brown, all of Tunnel Hill; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Friday, Feb. 10, from 3-9 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 11, until funeral time at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home, Ringgold.

Billy Eugene Bice, 55, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Billy Eugene Bice of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012, in a local hospital. He was 55.

Billy was a native and lifelong resident of Chattanooga, Tenn., and was of the Baptist faith. He was a graduate of Kirkman High School and was employed as a produce manager with Food Lion. Billy enjoyed fishing, collecting antiques and thoroughly enjoyed life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Annie Mae Bice; sister, Betty Louise Raines; and brothers, David Farris, Clarence Edward Bice Jr., Carl Eugene Bice, and Pete Bice.

Survivors include his sisters, Audrey Robinson, Mary Miller, and Patricia Gaddis; special nieces, Shawnna and Angela Whitt; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Billy will be greatly missed by his poodle, Sebastian.

Services: Saturday, Feb. 18, at 3 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Ronnie Chandler officiating. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 18, from noon until the service hour at the funeral home. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

James Lamar Blevins, 49, LaFayette

James Lamar Blevins of LaFayette died Saturday, Feb. 11, 2012. He was 49.

Preceded in death by parents, James “J.B.” and Doris Estus Blevins, and daughter, Misty Eugenia Blevins.

Survivors include sisters, Rachel (Curtis) Daniel of Trenton, and Michelle (Tony) Stuckey of Ala.; and brother, Steve (Valary) Blevins of LaFayette; nieces and nephews, Cassey Blevins, Tiffany Creech, Brittany Pardue, Jessica Thuencey, and Brian Daniel.

Funeral service: Monday, Feb. 13, at 4:30 p.m. at the funeral home with service conducted by Rev. W.C. Pence and Rev. Bobby Jones. Burial: Center Point Cemetery. Visitation: Sunday, Feb. 12, from 6-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Betty Jane Daniel, 56, Chickamauga

Betty Jane Daniel of Chickamauga died Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2012. She was 56.

She was born to the late Hubert and Bethie Daniel in LaFayette on Aug. 28, 1955. She was a recent employee with LaFayette Healthcare and a longtime employee at Mohawk in Fort Oglethorpe.

Survivors include three sisters, Sarah Wiley (John) Bozeman of Rossville, Julia (Paul) Berry of Rock Spring, Teresa Lynn Daniel of Chickamauga; five brothers, Tommy (Darlene) Daniel of Rock Spring, George Lewis Daniel of Chickamauga, Justin (Debbie) Daniel of LaFayette, William Daniel and Lester (Dawn) Daniel of Kensington; two uncles, John (Ruth) Hixson of Dalton, George (Jan) Hixson of LaFayette; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation: Thursday, Feb. 16, from 2-9 p.m. and Friday, Feb. 17, prior to the funeral service which will be held at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Josh Daniel and Bro. Tim Rayburn officiating. Burial: private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of Chattanooga at 4411 Oakwood Drive, Chattanooga, Tenn. 37416. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Homes, LaFayette.

David Nathan Evans, 84, Rossville

David Nathan Evans of Rossville died Saturday, Feb. 11, 2012, in a local health care facility. He was 84.

Mr. Evans had lived all of his life in the north Georgia area and was an elder at Chattanooga Valley Church of Christ for many years and was currently a member of Greens Lake Road Church of Christ. A U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, he was retired from Lee-Smith as a body mechanic with 27 years of service, and he was known for driving his 1934 coupe around town. He loved everything about cars, fishing, camping, and bike riding.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Linda Evans; and brothers and sisters, Kenneth, Joe, Carl, Susie, Mary Louise, and Nellie.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Jewell Greene Evans; children, Bonnie (Jerry) Williams, Christine (Barry) Meade, and Ann (Reid) Perry; grandchildren, Evan, Jobie, Haven, Josh, Nathan, Cody, Seth, Brooke and Amber.

Graveside services: Tuesday, Feb. 14, at 11a.m. at Forest Hills Cemetery with Reid Perry officiating. Visitation: Monday, Feb. 13, from 4–8 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Linda Gail Headrick, 77, Ringgold

Linda Gail Headrick of Ringgold died Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012, at her home. She was 77.

Her passions in life were her family, her grandchildren and traveling. She was a member of Battlefield Parkway Church of the Nazarene.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Millard Franklin Headrick.

Survivors include her five children and their spouses, Tamara E. and Efrain Cintron, Alex Marie White, Millard Wayne and Lisa Headrick, Paul Michael and Yon Headrick and Francie Lynn and Michael Songer; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral services: Friday, Feb. 17, at 3 p.m. in the chapel of Lane Funeral Home with Rev. Joe Brown officiating. Burial: Daily Hills Cemetery, Ringgold. Visitation: Thursday, Feb. 16, from 4-8 p.m. and Friday, Feb. 17, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is availa ble at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Christine Hegwood Jones, 88, LaFayette

Christine Hegwood Jones of LaFayette died Saturday, Feb. 11, 2012. She was 88.

She was a member of the Naomi Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bryant Jones.

Survivors include daughter and son-in-law, Becky and Rick Sheehan; sons, and daughters-in-law, Gary and Esther Jones, Ricky and Donna Jones; sisters, Louise Nichols of Rock Spring, Betty Slatton of Henager, Ala.; brothers, Tommy Hegwood of Rock Spring, Jackie Hegwood of Rock Spring; grandchildren, Kenneth (Jacqueline) Jones, Eric Sheehan, Dakota (Brooke) Jones, Montana (Shanea) Jones, Jeremiah Jones; great granddaughter, Miranda Jones, Carley Jones, Abigail and Ellie Mae Jones; great great granddaughter, Sydney Jones; great great grandson, Lucas Jones; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Monday, Feb. 13, at 2 p.m. at Naomi Baptist Church with service conducted by Revs. Garland Hullender and Charles McEhaney. Pallbearers: Wayde Gilbert, Josh Chapemand, Terry Dooley, Keith Merdock, Garry Chapman, Skip Richardson, Tim Williams, Jason Hughes, Jeff Thornton, Allen Thornton, Tommy McGaha, and Keith Wishon. Honorary pallbearers: Adult 3 Sunday school class of Naomi Baptist Church. Burial: LaFayette Memory Gardens. Visitation: Sunday, Feb. 12, from 5-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Jessie F. Morris, 92, East Ridge, Tenn.

Jessie F. Morris of East Ridge, Tenn., died Saturday, Feb. 11, 2012, in a local health care facility. She was 92.

She was a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga area, was a member of East Ridge Church of God, and worked as a floral designer with East Ridge Florist for 34 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Lucy Fitzpatrick.

Survivors include her daughters, Nece (Joe) Brooks O’Rear of Chattanooga, Tenn., and Carol Brooks Courtney of East Ridge, Tenn.; grandchildren, Sherri (Mike) Walker of Rossville, Susan (Robert Jr.) Watkins, John Courtney, Milford Courtney, all of East Ridge, Tenn., and Lisa (James) Boone of Rossville, and Jenny (Mike) Eustice of Chattanooga, Tenn.; six great-grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Tuesday, Feb. 14, at noon in the chapel with Rev. Dallas Beck officiating. Burial: LaFayette City Cemetery. Visitation: Monday, Feb. 13, from 5–9 p.m. at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Martha Marie Cannon Otting, 81, LaFayette

Martha Marie Cannon Otting of LaFayette died Monday, Feb. 13, 2012. She was 81.

She was a member of Community Baptist Church on Lee Mason Road.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Doyce Otting; parents, Vance and Zillie Cannon; sister, Virginia Cannon; brothers, Robert, Gene, and Gordon Cannon.

Survivors include daughters, Sandra and husband, Rickey Morrison, Brenda and husband, Mark Battles; son, Jerry and wife, Susie Cannon; sisters, Rosie Lee Hagwood and Betty Joe Jackson, all of LaFayette; four grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 2 p.m. with service conducted by Rev. W.C. Pence. Pallbearers: Hunter Pettigrew, Donnie Suddeth, Gene Suddeth, Eddie Suddeth, Billy Jackson, and Bobby Jackson. Burial: LaFayette Cemetery. Visitation: Tuesday, Feb. 14, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Donald Thomas Ossman, 82, Ringgold

Donald Thomas Ossmann of Ringgold died Friday Feb. 10, 2012. He was 82.

A native of Chicago, Ill., he has lived in the Ringgold area for the past four years and was formerly of Lecanto, Fla. Donald was a former employee of Brentwood Retirement Center where he worked security for four years, a member of First Baptist Church of Lecanto, a veteran of the U.S. Army where he served during the Koran War, member of the Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Union No.123, member of the VFW and the Korean War Veterans of Citrus County, Fla.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Caroline Ossmann; parents, William Lewis and Lillian Ossmann; and two sons, Timothy John and Paul Ossmann.

Survivors include five sons and daughters-in-law, Thomas and Stella Ossmann of Jacksonville, Fla., Russ and Ronda Ossmann of Valrico, Fla., Robert and Abby Ossmann of Seattle, Wash., Joseph and Michelle Ossmann of Ringgold, and Michael and Lori Ossmann of Macclenny, Fla.; two brothers, John Ossmann of St. Petersburg, Fla., and Norman Ossmann of Milpitas, Calif.; 10 grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Private services will be held at a later date. Arrangements: Wilson Funeral Home Wallis, Ringgold.

Sandra Lee Powelson, 74, LaFayette

Sandra Lee Powelson of LaFayette died Monday, Feb. 13, 2012. She was 74.

Sandra was a member of the First United Methodist Church of LaFayette, and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

She was preceded in death by son, Rickey Lee Powelson; brother, Richard L. Shuck; parents, Millard L., and Rachel E. Shuck.

Survivors include husband, James O. Powelson; sons, Ronald L. Powelson, and James A. Powelson, all of LaFayette; brother, John D. Shuck of Marion, Ohio, James E. Shuck of Casper, Wy.; and Dale T. Shuck of Ohio; three grandchildren; three great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside service: Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 1 p.m. at LaFayette Cemetery with service conducted by Rev. David Autry and Rev. John Moore. Pallbearers: Terry Thompson, James Mullis, Bubba Love; grandson, Frankie Arthur; brothers, Jack Shuck and Jim Shuck. Visitation: Wednesday, Feb. 15, from 11 a.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers contribution can be made to Countryside Hospice. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Helen Virginia McGaha Reeves, 86, LaFayette

Helen Virginia McGaha Reeves of LaFayette died Thursday, Feb. 8, 2012. She was 86.

She was the owner and operator of the Dinner Bell in LaFayette for 30 years.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Judson H. “Jud” Reeves.

Survivors include sons, Gary (Cecilia) Reeves of LaFayette and Ronnie Reeves of Ringgold; sister, Betty Jo Phillips of Blue Ridge; grandchildren, Pam Celeste (Toby) Steinback of Dalton, Stacy (Jeff) Slatton, Ronda Reeves, and Tina Reeves, all of Fort Oglethorpe, Sonja (Joe) Cauthen, Kristy Mitchell and Ronnie Mitchell Jr., all of LaFayette; and several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Funeral service: Sunday, Feb. 12, at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Burial: McIntyre Cemetery. Visitation: Saturday, Feb 11, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Rickey Eugene Lee Tuell, 54, Rossville

Rickey Eugene Lee Tuell of Rossville died Friday, Feb. 10, 2012, at his home. He was 54.

He lived in the Chattanooga, Tenn., and north Georgia area all of his life and was a self-employed painter. He loved to fish and he loved his family.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Janice Palmer.

Survivors include his wife of 30 years, Regina Tuell; daughter, Renee Sisk; sons, Chris Bates and Tim Bates; two granddaughters; and two grandsons; aunt, Alice Martin, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services: Monday, Feb. 13, at 3 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Phillip Mathis officiating. Burial: Pine Grove Cemetery in Ringgold. Visitation: Monday, Feb. 13, from 1 p.m. until service time at the funeral home. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.

Linnie Mae Carter Smithers, 93, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Linnie Mae Carter Smithers of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2012. She was 93.

For the past eight years she had resided at National Health Care in Ft. Oglethorpe. Prior to that, she had been a resident of East Ridge, Tenn., where she touched the lives of countless children while working at the East Ridge Presbyterian Day Care. She was a member of East Ridge Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Alvin E. Smithers Sr.; her parents, Eva Mae Rogers Carter and Walter Nathan Carter; and two sisters, Annie Belle Siders and Molly Johnson.

Survivors include her sons, Alvin E (Konnie) Smithers II, Samuel L. Smithers, Robert E. (Linda) Smithers, and Chris (Cheryl) Herron; grandchildren, Karen E. Wolfe, G. Adam Smithers, Nathan H.W. Smithers, Rob Smithers, and Jonathan Smithers; great-grandchildren, Doug, Noah, Abby, Lawson and Cade; sister, Gladys Foster; brother, Nick Carter.

Funeral service: Friday, Feb. 17, at 1 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Paul Rebelo officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens, East. Online guest book is available at www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Visitation: Friday, Feb. 17, from 11 a.m. until the funeral hour at the funeral home. Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, Rossville.