Francis Jenkins Gray, 96, Fort Oglethorpe

Frances Jenkins Gray of Ft. Oglethorpe died Tuesday, March 27, 2012. She was 96.

She was a homemaker and with her husband, Thomas A. Gray, was owner of Gray Yarn Mills in Ft. Oglethorpe. She lived in the area for over 40 years. She was born in Cedartown May 30, 1915. She was a secretary for Uxbridge Worsted Mills in Cedartown where she met and married her husband of 61 years, Thomas Alexander Gray. His career then took their family to Baltimore, Md.; Great Notch, N.J.; Southern Pines, N.C.; Greenville, S.C.; Albany, N.Y.; Cartersville, Ga.; Macon, Ga.; Stevenson, Al.; and Rossville, Ga.

In 1964, they moved to Ft. Oglethorpe where they owned and operated Gray Yarn Mills until the late 1980s. She was an active volunteer in each school attended by their daughter. She was a member of numerous garden clubs where they lived and was always involved with their church; she was a member of McFarland United Methodist Church in Rossville, where she served with the women of the church for over 40 years. She devoted her life to her church, family, friends and home. Her faith in God, courage and love for others touched those who knew her in a special way. She will be missed, but not forgotten.

Survivors include her daughter, JoAnn Gray Pugh of Winter Garden, Fla.; three grandchildren, and brother Herman Jenkins of Marietta.

Graveside Services: Wednesday, April 4 at 2 p.m. at Lakewood Memory Gardens South, 325 Greenslake Road, Rossville. Rev. Matt Hampton, pastor of McFarland United Methodist Church, will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to your charity of choice. Arrangements by: Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home, Winter Garden, Fla.

Joyce Evelyn Peters Touchstone, 93, Ringgold

Joyce Evelyn Peters Touchstone of Ringgold died Thursday, March 29, 2012. She was 93.

She was a lifelong resident of the Catoosa County area. She was a former employee of Candlewick Yarns where she worked for 20 years and was a member of Friendship Primitive Baptist Church.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Nelson Touchstone; parents, Terrell and Mattie Mae Sisson Peters; granddaughter, Stephanie Jones; two sisters, Eva Mae Burnette and Mildred Crowe and one brother, Edwin Peters.

Survivors include her four children, Maxine Moore, Garland Touchstone (Kathryn), Byron Touchstone (Phyllis) and Joel Touchstone (Pat), all of Ringgold; sister, Marlene Goodman of Ooltewah, Tenn.; brother, Oliver Peters of Cohutta; 21 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Sunday, April 1 at 3 p.m. at Friendship Primitive Baptist Church with Joe Hayes officiating. Burial: New Liberty Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation: Saturday, March 31 from 3-9 p.m. and Sunday until 2:30 p.m. at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by: Wilson Funeral Home Wallis-Stewart Chapel Ringgold.



Billie Shook, 70, Ringgold

Billie Ann Groover Byrd Hughes Shook of Ringgold died Tuesday, March 27, 2012, at her residence. She was 70.

She was a radiological technologist and radiation therapist for over 35 years. She opened up the first northwest Georgia radiation therapy department at Hamilton Medical Center in Dalton in 1975. She was an active member of Dogwood Baptist Church. She also attended Hickory Grove Baptist Church.

Survivors include her daughter, Lora Lynn Shook Carrell of Ringgold; granddaughters, Hannah Alexis Pruitt and Rebekah Lynn Carrell; brothers, Frank Byrd Jr. of Rossville, Sammy Byrd of Atlanta; sisters, Cheryl Erwin of Ringgold, Sherry Maddox of Chattanooga, Adrienne Dunn of Ringgold, and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Funeral services: Friday, March 30 at 1 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Roy Gentry officiating. Burial: Forest Hills Cemetery. Visitation: Thursday, March 29 from 4-8 at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.heritagefh.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Dogwood Bible Camp, 5296 Dogwood Valley Rd, Tunnel Hill, GA 30755. Arrangements by: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.

Ada Evelyn Robinson Selix, 93, Chickamauga

Ada Evelyn Robinson Selix of Chickamauga died Tuesday, March 28, 2012. She was 93.

She was born in Florence, Ala., to the late Marvin Churchill and Mary Eleanor Thompson Robinson. She was a longtime member of Mountain View Church of Christ and was a former switchboard operator.

Along with her parents. she is preceded in death by her husband, John E. Selix; brother, William David Robinson and son-in-law, Bill Dodd.

Survivors include her daughter, Sherry Dodd; son, John E. and Betty Selix, all of Chickamauga; sister, Dawn and Cliff Harding of Mount Dora, Fla.; brother, Robert L. and Pat Robinson of Pearland, Texas, Julian and Diane Robinson of La.; five grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: wiFriday, March 30 at 2 p.m. at the funeral home with Lowell Hillis officiating. Burial: LaFayette Memory Gardens. Visitation: Thursday, March 29 from 4–9 p.m. and Friday morning prior to the service. Arrangements by Wilson Funeral Homes - Chickamauga Chapel.

Sherman Dar Smith, 76, Chickamauga

Sherman “Smitty” Dar Smith of Chickamauga died Tuesday, March 28, 2012. He was 76.

He was born in Alabama to the late Lincoln and Edna Davis Smith. He was the former owner/operator of Smith Trucking Company. He was the lead singer and last survivor of the local bluegrass Band “The Deep River Boys.”

Survivors include his wife, Barbara Smith; sons, Mike and Mark Smith both of Chickamauga; daughters, Patricia Dubois of Houston, Texas, Kimberly Green of Fort Payne, Ala.; grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

Graveside service: Friday, March 30 at 11 a.m. at Chickamauga Cemetery with Rev. Chuck Nation officiating. Visitation: Thursday, March 29 from 2-9 p.m. and Friday morning prior to the service at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Wilson Funeral Homes - Chickamauga Chapel.

Dorothy Lee Hollingsworth Denton, 85, Chickamauga

Dorothy Lee Hollingsworth Denton, a longtime resident of Chickamauga, died Wednesday, March 28, 2012. She was 85.

She was born in Atlanta and was a former employee of Crystal Springs Bleachery. She was a member of Bethel Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard Arthur and Mae Parrish Hollingsworth; husband, Daniel Ervin Denton and son, Connie Lee Denton.

Survivors include her daughter, Vivian (Tom) Denton Plummer of Cartersville; son, Ronald E. Denton of Chickamauga; six grandchildren, Jennifer Leigh Plummer, Brian Ray Plummer, Kim Derryberry, Tammy Dana, Danny Denton, Lee Denton; three great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Friday, March 30 at noon with Rev. Charles McElhaney officiating. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park, Rossville. Visitation: Thursday, March 29 from 5– 8 p.m. and Friday morning prior to the service. An online guestbook is available at: www.wilsonfuneralhome.com Arrangements by Wilson Funeral Homes - Chickamauga Chapel.

Monie Williams, 85, Fort Oglethorpe

Monie (Terry) Williams of Fort Oglethorpe died Monday March 26, 2012 at her residence. She was 85.

She was born on February 16, 1927 in Orangeburg, S.C., a daughter of the late Asbury and Josephine Kittrell Davis. She lived in the north Georgia area for the past 77 years and was of the Baptist faith.

Survivors include her loving husband of more than 50 years, Jimmie F. Williams, Sr. of Fort Oglethorpe; sons Mike (Kathy) Patrick of Ft. Oglethorpe, Denny (Susan) Patrick of Rock Spring and Jim Williams Jr. of Fort Oglethorpe; daughters, Jo Anna (John) Hickman of Augusta; Carla Edmondson of Chattanooga, Tenn., Tracy (Jim) Russell of Frederickburg, Va.; brother, James Davis; sisters, Virginia Shaw, Susie Hughes and Nelda Greene all of Orangeburg, S.C.; 12 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Thursday, March 29 at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Denny Patrick officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens South. Visitation: Wednesday, March 28 from 4-8 p.m. at the funeal home. An online guestbook is available at: www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements by: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.

Dorothy C. Parker, 86, LaFayette

Dorothy C. Parker died on Thursday, March 29, 2012, after an extended illness. She was 86.

She was born on August 13, 1925, in Shiloh. She graduated from high school in Americus, and attended Georgia Womans College in Valdosta. She married Samuel Lee Parker on April 4, 1943. The couple moved to LaFayette in 1947. Mr. Parker was in the insurance business, and in 1949 the business now known as Stiles, Parker, Co. evolved. The business still exists today and is owned by her son, Breck Parker.

After moving to LaFayette, she became an active member of the First United Methodist Church, until the onset of her illness in 2004. She was a member of Circle 4 and was also active in the Women’s Club. She was an avid reader and also a member of Friends of the Library. She and her closest friends were in a bridge club and also in the Supper Club.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Samuel Lee Parker; her parents, John David and Ruth Moore Clements; brother, Lamer and J.D. (Jr.) Clements.

Survivors include her daughter, Melinda P. McDaniel and her two sons, C. Breck Parker, and Samuel Lee Parker III. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Samuel Lee Parker IV, James Benjamen (Ben) Parker, Reed B. Parker, Lily and Cole McDaniel; four great-grandchildren, Samantha Brooke, Morgan, Sydney and Emma Parker.

Visitation: Friday, March 30 from 10 to 11 a.m. Burial: following visitation, at Trinity Cemetery, with Revs. David Autry and John Moore will be presiding. Pallbearers: her sons and grandsons. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the LaFayette First United Methodist Church. Arrangements by: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

James Franklin Clark, 75, Rossville

James Franklin Clark of Rossville died on Wednesday, March 28, 2012. He was 75.

He had lived in the north Georgia area for most of his life and was a member of Canaan Baptist Church. He loved to dance and enjoyed fishing with his friends and was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William George Clark Sr. and Ida Mae Weathers Clark; siblings, May Louise, Francis, William, Jr., Roy, Myrtle, Gladys, Joe, Christine and Dorothy.

Survivors include his loving wife of more than 57 years, Patricia Clark of Rossville; sons and daughters-in-law, Tony and Twonna Clark and Ronald and Sherry Clark, all of Soddy Daisy, Tenn. and Mike Clark of Rossville; sister and brother-in-law, Louise and David Hicks of Signal Mountain; 7 grandchildren, Serenity, Hayden, Kaitlin, Michaela, Austin, Jordan and Ashlea; one great-grandchild, Cameron, and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Friday, March 30 at 1 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Harold Taylor officiating. Burial: Lakewood South Memory Gardens. Visitation: Thursday, March 29 after 2 p.m. and prior to the service on Friday at the funeral home. Arrangements by: W. L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Murl Dean Shropshire Sr., Atlanta

Murl Dean Shropshire Sr., of Atlanta died on Monday, March 26, 2012 at his residence.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George G. Shropshire and Katherine Stalling Shropshire.

Survivors are his loving family, his wife of thirty-five years, Jackie Shropshire; daughter, Amber Shropshire of Atlanta; two sons, Murl D. Shropshire Jr., of LaFayette, Nicholas A. of Jacksonville, Fla.; five beautiful grandchildren, Wilford, Ariana Soniyah Sims of Atlanta, Nicholas Shropshire Jr., and Quincy Santana of Jacksonville; mother-in-law, Gladys Wheeler of LaFayette; three sisters, Sharon Shropshire, Gwendolyn Shropshire and Sandra Montgomery; two brothers, Vernon Shrophsire of LaFayette, George Sherman (Shirley) Shropshire of Smyrna, Tenn.; two very special people, Sonya Garcia of Atlanta and Yarkis Santana of Jacksonville; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services: Saturday, March 31 at 1 p.m. at Mt. Zion Baptist Church with Rheubin M. Taylor Sr. officiating. Burial: LaFayette Cemetery. Visitation: Firday after 11 a.m. at the funeral home, and Saturday from 12 –1 p.m. at the church. An online guestbook is available at: www.willisfuneralhomedalton.com. Arrangements by: Willis Funeral Home, Inc., Dalton.

Patricia Ann Leonard, 55, Fort Oglethorpe

Patricia Ann Leonard of Fort Oglethorpe died unexpectedly Tuesday, March 27, 2012. She was 55.

She was born in LaFayette to the late Kenneth and Leona Watts. She worked for Shaw Industries for 14 years, and was a member of Oakwood Baptist Church in Chickamauga. She loved and cherished the times she spent with her sons, grandchildren and family.

Survivors include her children, Randy (Jamie) Leonard, Michael (Jackie) Leonard; siblings, Connie Whaley, Kenny Watts; aunt, Bonnie Dixon; grandchildren, Dakota, Dustin, Raven, Makayla Leonard; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Saturday, March 31 at 2 p.m in the chapel with Rev. Clyde Painter officiating. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Friday, March 30 after 3 p.m. and prior to the service on Saturday at the funeral home. Arrangements by: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.



Christopher Lynn Parker, 15, Rossville

Christopher Lynn Parker of Rossville died on Saturday, March 24, 2012. He was 15.

He was a sophomore at Heritage High School. He was a member of Delray Baptist Church and the youth group as well. He loved music and was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Jerry Parker, and maternal grandmother, Evelyn Hensley.

Survivors include his parents, Richard and Becky Parker; brothers, Jonathan and Jeremiah Parker; sisters, Angel and Nikki Parker, all of Rossville; paternal grandmother, Alline Parker of Fort Oglethorpe; maternal grandparents, Wilburn and Bobbie Hensley of Oliver Springs, Tenn.; grandparents, Andrew and Joyce Racz of Rock Springs; uncles and aunts, Randy and Terri Hensley of Clinton, Tenn. and Rick and Cindy O’Rear of Dayton, Tenn; special friends, Derrick Grider, Matthew Soares, Mr G. and “The God Man.”

Funeral services: Thursday, March 29 at 2 p.m., at Delray Baptist Church, 784 Steele Road, Rossville, GA 30741, with Chris Eaves officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens South with Robert Smith, Derrick Grider, Mikey Johnson, Matthew Soares, Adam Bell, Michael Corley, Caleb Uren and Jake Davis serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are the Delray Baptist Church youth group and his Heritage High School classmates. Visitation: Wednesday, March 28 after 2 p.m. at the funeral home and Thursday, March 29 from 1-2 p.m. at Delray Baptist Church. Memorial contributions can be made to the Catoosa County Special Olympics. An online guestbook is available at: www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements by: Heritage Funeral Home on Battlefield Parkway.

George Timothy McDonald, 77, Rossville

George Timothy McDonald of Rossville died Friday, March 23, 2012. He was 77.

He had lived in the north Georgia area for most of his life and was a member of Unity Baptist Church. He was a man of many talents, a salesman who loved talking to everyone and was highly skilled in the art of designing and printing custom labels for florists and jewelers. He was the owner and operator of Custom Labeling for more than 25 years, but his greatest skill was with the guitar, and his touch on the instrument was like no other.

He was also an Army Veteran, a 32nd degree Mason with Masonic Lodge #430 F&AM and was a member of the Alhambra Shriners. He loved his family and always enjoyed large gatherings and preparing special food for all who came, and music was always there. His family was at his side to offer love and comfort as he took his journey home to heaven.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister and three brothers.

Survivors include his loving wife of more 53 years, Geri McDonald of Rossville; sons and daughters-in-law, Richard and Byna McDonald of Ringgold and David and Faith McDonald of Lakeview; daughter, Kellie Guess of Ringgold; sister, Lillian Sweat of Fla; 2 grandchildren, Renee Knight and Callie McDonald; 2 great-grandchildren, Daymon Knight and Natalie Knight; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Thursday, March 29 at 11:30 a.m. with Rev. Billy Dean officiating. Burial: Chattanooga National Cemetery. Visitation: Wednesday, March 28 after 4 p.m. and prior to the service on Thursday. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Alzheimers Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090, 800-272-3900 or the charity of your choice. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Amedisys Hospice of Dalton and the granddaughter, Renee and her husband David for their care and compassion in helping the family through this monster disease. Arrangements by: W. L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Wesley Chase Blevins, 29, Ringgold

Wesley Chase Blevins of Ringgold died Saturday, March 24, 2012. He was 29.

He was a lifelong resident of the Ft. Oglethorpe area, he was an employee of Lectrus and he attended Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle. He loved to fish, hunt, play basketball and spend time with children.

He is preceded in death by his brother, John William Miller; grandfather, Carl Leroy Dickson; and great-grandparents, Cleo Nance and Dorman Perry Nance.

Survivors include his mother, Treva Crouch (Donald) of LaFayette, Wesley Blevins (Denise) of Dalton; paternal grandparents, Tommy and Patricia Self and maternal grandparents, Jean and James Stapp; two sisters, Donna Irvin of Ft. Oglethorpe and Rebecca Standring of LaFayette; four brothers, Dustin Blevins of Ringgold, Braden Blevins of Dalton, Nathan Love of Ringgold, and Matthew Teem of Dalton; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Funeral services: Friday, March 30 at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Raymond English officiating. Burial: Anderson Memorial Gardens. Visitation: Wednesday, March 28 from 4-9 p.m. and until funeral time Friday at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by: Wilson Funeral Home Wallis-Stewart Chapel, Ringgold.



Georgia Laine Sutton, infant, East Ridge

Georgia Laine Sutton, infant daughter of Jeffery Scott and Alycia Delaine Sutton of East Ridge, died Thursday, March 22, 2012 in a local hospital.

In addition to her parents, survivors include her brother, Cole Holcomb; grandparents, Ronald and Myra Bearden of Geraldine, Ala., and Eddie and Jan Sutton of Fort Oglethorpe; great-grandparents, Marthette Turner of Crossville, Ala., Ruby Bearden of Boaz, Ala., Jesse and Mary Cross of Fort Oglethorpe.

Graveside services: Tuesday, March 27 at 1 p.m. with Rev. Terry Harris officiating. Burial: Lakewood Memory Gardens, South. Visitation: Tuesday, from 11 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements by: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, located at the end of historic Missionary Ridge, Rossville.

Bertie L. Parker, 82, Rome

Bertie L. Parker of Rome, formerly of Tunnel Hill, died Friday, March 23, 2012. She was 82.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James M. Parker; daughter, Sandra F. Carmichael; and son, Charles L. Parker.

Survivors include her son, Marvin W. Parker of San Sebastopol, Calif.; daughter, Gwendolyn Fowler of Rome; and several grandchildren.

Graveside services: Monday, March 26 at 4 p.m. with Rev. Mike Barone officiating. Burial: Varnell Cemetery. Visitation: Monday, from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements by: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, located at the end of historic Missionary Ridge, Rossville.

Debra Louise Strickland Taylor, 52, Ringgold

Debra “Debbie” Louise Strickland Taylor of Ringgold died Friday, March 23, 2012. She was 52.

She was a resident of the north Georgia area for the past 21 years. She was formerly of Shelbyville, Tenn., was a former employee of Rosewood Assisted Living and was of the Baptist faith.

She is preceded in death by her father, Richard Strickland.

Survivors include her husband, James Taylor of Ringgold; mother and stepfather, Edna Louise “June” and Roy Seibers of Shelbyville, Tenn.; son, Joey Baumgardner of Shelbyville, Tenn.; daughter, Kimberly Watson of Ringgold; grandson, Michael Watson of Ringgold; half-brother, Troy Seibers of Shelbyville, Tenn.; eleven other special grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Graveside services: Tuesday, March 27 at 2 p.m. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements by: Wilson Funeral Home Wallis-Stewart Chapel, Ringgold.

Jesse Russell Thompson, 81, Chattanooga, Tenn.

Jesse Russell Thompson of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Friday, March 23, 2012. He was 81.

He was a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga area. He was a former employee of T.V.A., where he worked for 13 years, and was of the Church of God faith.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ballard and Mary Eagen Thompson; son, Buddy Thompson; daughter-in-law, Shelia Thompson and five sisters.

Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Willene Collins Thompson of Chattanooga; five children, James Thompson of East Ridge, Tenn., Michael Thompson of Ringgold, Deborah Newman (Lebron), Janice Taylor, both of Chattanooga, Tenn., and Mary Pritchett (Randy) of Rossville; brother, Carl Thompson (June) of Trenton; eight grandchildren, six great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Tuesday, March 27 at noon in the funeral home chapel with Larry Dial officiating. Burial: Brown’s Gap Cemetery. Visitation: Sunday, March 25 from 3-9 p.m., all day Monday and Tuesday until funeral time at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by: W. L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home Ft. Oglethorpe.



Dorothy Mae Gordon Veal Allen, 83, Fort Oglethorpe

Dorothy Mae Gordon Veal Allen of Fort Oglethorpe died Thursday, March 22, 2012. She was 83.

She was born in Rock Spring to the late Walsh “Wash” and Lois Baker Powell. She later moved to Rossville, where she graduated from Rossville High School in 1947. She was a charter member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in Rossville and attended Park Way Temple in Fort Oglethorpe. She was a member of the Golden Agers Group Fellowship Sunday school class and the Sassy Sisters Red Hat Group.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, James “J.C.” Gordon, Wavian Veal and Shellie Allen; sisters, Virginia Hunt, Anna Jean Butorac; and brothers, William Leroy Powell and Robert Kyle Powell.

Survivors include her daughters, Linda (Billy) Corbin of East Ridge, Dianne (Jerry) Camp of Ringgold, Donna Baker of Hatton, Ala.; grandchildren, Kevin (Brittany) Camp, Bradley (Courtney) Camp, Janie (Robert) Wilson, Tania (Chad) Finger; great-grandchildren, James and Jack Wilson.

Funeral services: Monday, March 26 at 11 a.m. in the chapel with Revs. Robbie Dunn and Randy Chestnut officiating. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Saturday, March 24 after 4 p.m. and all day Sunday at the funeral home. Arrangements by: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home-Fort Oglethorpe.



J.D. Bolden, 89, LaFayette

J. D. Bolden, formerly of LaFayette, died March 15, 2012. He was 89.

He was born at home near Owassa in Conecuh County, Ala., on Oct 6, 1922. He attended Lyeffion School until he was drafted into the Army Air Corps in 1942 and he served in World War II as a communications specialist. After the war, he attended and graduated from Harding College in Searcy, Ark. He later graduated with an MA in biology education from Peabody Teachers College at Vanderbilt University and from West Georgia College with a degree in educational administration.

Dave, as most of his friends knew him, married Katherine Ozema Garner of Wynne, Ark., in September 1946. After almost 60 years of marriage, she preceded him in death in April 2005 at their son’s home in Monroe, La. To this union were born two children, Ann Bolden Sheridan (1947-1996) and Kenneth Bolden (born 1951).

He is remembered by many as a biology teacher at LaFayette High School (1953-58). He then served as an elementary school principal for the Walker County Board of Education from 1958 until his retirement in 1987. He served as principal at West LaFayette, Cedar Grove, and Pond Springs, with most of those years administrating at West LaFayette Elementary School.

He was a member of the LaFayette Church of Christ and served for many years as an elder and adult Bible class teacher. He also served many local congregations in the area by doing interim preaching at Menlo, Lyerly, Lookout Hall, and Hall’s Valley. He was a member of many organizations, including the Georgia Principals Association, the Walker County Retired Teachers Association and the Sons of Confederate Veterans.

Survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, Ken and Ann Bolden of Sheridan, Ark.; five grandchildren, Sherman Southerland of Ringgold, Robin Sheridan of Houston, Texas, Amanda Bolden Scholte of Richmond, Va, Abigail Bolden of Seattle, Wash., and Thea Bolden of Monroe, La.; two great-grandchildren, Conner Southerland of Ringgold and Victoria Sheridan of Houston, Texas .

Funeral services: Saturday, March 17 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial: LaFayette Memory Gardens. Visitation: at the funeral home Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. Arrangements by: Wallis Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Helen Jones, 92, Chattanooga

Helen Jones of Chattanooga died Tuesday, March 20, 2012, in a local hospital. She was 92.

She was a resident of LaFayette and north Chattanooga. She had worked at Hamilton Bank, Lookout Saddle Company and Terrell Electric. She was a member of Brainerd Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Aubrey and Myrtle Jones; brothers, Harold, Aubrey and Austin Jones; and sister, Pauline McGill.

Survivors include a nephew, Dennis Jones of Atlanta; nieces, Denise (Joe) Montgomery, Debra (Kevin) Stone; five great-nieces and one great-nephew; cousin, Susan Van Wagner.

Graveside services: Thursday, March 22 at 4 p.m. at Chattanooga Memorial Park with Rev. Jason Thomas officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Chattanooga Zoo, 1101 McCallie Ave., Chattanooga, Tenn. 37403. An online guestbook is available at: www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements by: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.

Michael Duncan, 62, Chickamauga

Michael “Mike” Duncan of Chickamauga died Sunday, March 18, 2012, in a local hospital. He was 62.

He had lived in Florida before moving to north Georgia 17 years ago. He had resided in Jasper, Chatsworth and Chickamauga. He was a member of Chickamauga First Baptist Church. He was a nursing supervisor for NHC Rossville.

He was preceded in death by his father, Esker Duncan Sr., and brother, Richard Esker Duncan Jr.

Survivors include his loving wife of nine years, Zerita Duncan; sons, Shawn Duncan of Chickamauga, Shane (Stephanie) Duncan of Jasper; daughter, Amanda Gmyrek of Chickamauga; stepdaughter LaWanda Neighbors of Chickamauga; grandchildren, Leah Duncan, Alex Gmyrek, Tanner Neighbors, Piper Duncan, Nicholas Neighbors, and Willow Duncan.

Funeral services: Wednesday, March 21 at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Visitation: Tuesday, March 20 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4-8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements by: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.

Patricia Ann Bankston, 79, Chattanooga

Patricia Ann Bankston of Chattanooga died Tuesday, March 20, 2012. She was 79.

She was a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga area and was of the Baptist faith. She was a loving mother and grandmother, who will be greatly missed by all that knew her.

She was preceded in death by her grandson, Stanley Cline, Jr.

Survivors include her children and their spouses, Deidra and Stanley Cline of Fort Oglethorpe and Steve and Melissa Smith of Rossville.

Graveside services: Thursday, March 22 at 2 p.m. in the West Hills Cemetery in Dalton. There will be no visitation at the funeral home. Arrangements by: W. L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Thomas Ray Bruce Sr., 62, Rock Spring

Thomas Ray Bruce Sr., of Rock Spring died Monday, March 19, 2012. He ws 62.

He was born in Fort Oglethorpe to the late Herman and Joann Bruce.

Survivors include his children, Thomas (Amanda) Bruce of Rock Spring, Angie (Pete) Ballis of Houston, Texas; siblings, Sherry Derryberry, Miles Bruce, both of Chickamauga; grandchildren, Libby, Tanner, Madison, Olivia, Hayden; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with Dick Hillis officiating. Visitation: Wednesday, March 21 from 4-9 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to your favorite charity. An online guestbook is available at: www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by: Wilson Funeral Homes, J Avery Bryan Chapel, Chickamauga.

Ashley Lauren Hoppes, 20, Ringgold

Ashley Lauren Hoppes of Ringgold died Thursday, March 22, 2012, at her residence. She was 20.

She was a member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Dalton. She was loved by all who knew her. She struggled for many years with her illness and was a remarkable individual. She is peacefully at rest and now at home in the arms of Jesus.

Survivors include her parents, Rick and Phyllis Hoppes of Ringgold; brother, Ricky “BroBro” Hoppes II and sister, Nichole “NiNi” Sallee.

We would like to express special thanks to Mickey for her ten years of love and care for Ashley and Bryan for his loving care for Ashley.

Funeral services: 1 p.m. Saturday, March 24 in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Patricia M. Grace officiating. Visitation: Friday, March 23 from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements by: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.



Exie Osburn Littlejohn, 77, LaFayette

Exie Osburn Littlejohn of LaFayette died Wednesday, March 14, 2012at her home. She was 77. She was a member of the Second Baptist Church of LaFayette. She was retired from the City of LaFayette. She is preceded in death by her husband, Charles Ray Littlejohn; brothers Lamar Osburn and DeWitt Osburn.

Survivors include her daughter, Linda (Chuck) Franks of LaFayette; son, Kenneth Littlejohn of LaFayette; sisters, Glenda Edgerton of LaFayette, Debra Wright of Trion, Parkey Stansell of Villanow, Patsy Ellison of Chickamauga, Charlotte Clark, Dallas Iva Wilson, Tenga, Brenda Burgess of LaFayette; brothers, Jerry Osburn and Fugate Osburn; grandchildren, Joe and Carson Franks; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral sevices: Friday, March 16 at 2 p.m. at the Second Baptist Church of LaFayette with service conducted by Rev. Mike Peterson and Rev. Vince Stalling. Burial: Chattooga Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation: Thursday, March 15 from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements by: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home of LaFayette.

Adrian Brock, 61, LaFayette

Daniel Adrian Brock of LaFayette died Thursday, March 8, 2012. He was 61. He was born July 18, 1950 in LaFayette. He was preceded in death by his parents, LeeRoy “Abe” and Lota Brock; brother, Van Brock; and sister, Brenda Smith. He graduated from Middle Georgia College and the University of Georiga. He was named Who’s Who in Young Business Men of Georgia in 1972. He managed the Kitchens Medical Clinic in LaFayette. He retired in 2006 from managerial supervision of convenient stores.

His father, “Abe” Brock, formerly a Lookouts baseball player, had him playing baseball at the young age of three. He was a well rounded sportsman. His great love was football. He wore #32 when he was a great running back for the LaFayette Ramblers from 1965-1968. He was mentioned in the Free Press every week for touchdowns. He received several offers from the SEC; he chose Georgia. He was a member of the LaFayette Elks Lodge #2018 and the Sons of American Legion at East Ridge, Tenn., squadron #95. He held many offices in the Elks Lodge. He will be missed by the many friends he had. He seemed to collect friends like others collect material items.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 12 years, Jolie McCleskey Brock; his sister, Judy (Don) Gray; brothers-in-law, Jimmy Smith, Terry (Donna) McCleskey, and Derrell (Terri Kay) McCleskey; nieces, Hayley Mitchell, Terri (Jon) Buchan, Anna (Trae) Whitehead, Candice (Eric) Gebhardt, Wendy McCleskey and Whitney McCleskey; nephews, Scott (Gwen) Gray and Shawn Tucker; four great nieces, two great nephews, and one great-great niece.

Funeral services: private. Burial: LaFayette Cemetery. Visitation: Saturday, March 10 from 6:00 until 9:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1 until 3 p.m. at the funeral home. Pallbearers: David Daniel, Ronnie Ramey, Freddy Chapman, Ben Potts, Wayne Ellenger and Scott Gray. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Elk’s Lodge #2018 and the Sons of American Legion, East Ridge Squadron #95.

The family would like to thank Avalon Hospice. A special “Thank you” to Rosie, Jeff and Dwayne of Avalon. Thank you also to Susan of Senior Helpers for all your tender care of Adrian and especially for making him smile through his pain. Arrangements by: Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.

Bobbie Eugene Dunn, 69, Chattanooga

Bobby Eugene Dunn of Chattanooga died Monday, March 12, 2012. He was 69. He was born in Chattanooga to the late Robert and Louise Dunn. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, and the Masonic lodge in St. Elmo. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Edward “Skillet” Dunn and a sister, Dot Leonard.

Survivors include his children, Trina (Mike) Brown, Bobby Dunn II, James Dunn, spouse, Johnnie Dunn; siblings, R.L. Dunn, Jimmy Dunn, Bill Dunn, Charlotte Wolfe; grandchildren, Baili, Mikey, Gavin, Gage; great granddaughter, Ava, and many nieces and nephews.

Graveside services: Saturday, March 17, at 3 p.m. at Delano Cemetery in Delano, Tenn. Visitation: Saturday from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements are by W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home-Fort Oglethorpe.

Margaret Elizabeth Scott Martin, 98, Kensington

Margaret Elizabeth Scott Martin formerly of Kensington, was born on March 31, 1913 in Etowah County, Ala. to the late Marvin L. and Lula Thomas. She was just shy of her 99th birthday.

She enjoyed playing bingo as well as gardening and sewing, and will be missed by her family and friends. She was a member of Old Fort Baptist Church in Fort Oglethorpe.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands: James W. Martin, Robert F. Scott and a son: Billy Lee Martin.

Survivors include her daughters and sons-in-law: Lillian and William Ray of Ringgold; Bernice and Lewis Brock of Fort; son and daughter-in-law: Kenneth and Maxine Kinsey Martin of Hixon, Tenn.; eight grandsons, four granddaughters, and many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Sunday, March 18 at 2 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. W. L. “Dub” Galloway. Burial: Singletery Cemetery, Cooper Heights. Visitation: Saturday, March 17 from 3 to 9 p.m. and Sunday morning until the funeral. The family would like to thank National Health Care of Fort Oglethorpe and Hospice of Chattanooga for the excellent care they provided in Mrs. Margaret’s extended illness. An online guestbook is available at: www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by W. L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Homes, Fort Oglethorpe.

David Alexander Mawney, 77, Chickamauga

David Alexander Mawney of Chickamauga died Wednesday, March 14, 2012 at his home. He was 77.

He was born in East Haven, Conn., to the late Albert and Grace Mawney. He worked as a security officer for General Dynamics for over 15 years, and was a member of Cassandra Baptist Church.

He was also preceded in death by his brother, William “Bill” Mawney.

Survivors include his loving wife of 53 years, Joan Mawney of Chickamauga, daughter and son-in-law, Randy and Sandra Rogers of Rossville, grandchildren, Tony Snow and Jacqueline Snow.

Memorial services: Thursday, March 22, at 2 p.m. at Cassandra Baptist Church in Chickamauga. Arrangements by: W.L. Wilson & Sons Funeral Home-Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia.

Julia Mount Lewis Lowes, 74, Ringgold

Julia Mount Lewis Lowes of Ringgold died Thursday, March 15, 2012. She was 74.

She was a lifelong resident of north Georgia area and was a former employee of Shaw Industries, where she worked for 22 years, and was of the Baptist faith.

She is preceded indeath by her first husband, Loyd G. Lewis Sr.; parents, Marvin Thomas Mount Sr. and Jessie Katherine Bartee Mount; grandson, Jeremy Worthington; two sisters, Margaret Weaver and Mable Reagan and two brothers, Bill and Tommy Mount.

Survivors include her husband, William “Bill” Lowes of Ringgold; six children, Loyd G. Lewis Jr. (Kathi) of Rock Spring, Albert Lewis of Ringgold, Keith Lewis (Marion) of Ringgold, Tony Lewis (Mary) of Ringgold, Cindy Landen of Ringgold, and Ronnie Lewis of Ringgold; two sisters, Katherine Rounsaville of Hixson, Tenn., and Nancy Clark of Ringgold; eleven grandchildren, Anthony Lewis, Mistina Franklin, Tara Kelley, Eric Lewis, Christopher Lewis, Adam Lewis, Jamie Weldon, Betsy Lewis, Ryan Lewis, Tyler Lewis and Heath Landen; several great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Sunday, March 18, at 3 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Cecil Williams officiating. Burial: Anderson Memorial Gardens. Visitation: Saturday, March 17 from 3-9 p.m. and Sunday until funeral time at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by: Wilson Funeral Home Wallis-Stewart Chapel, Ringgold.

Minerva Adeline Blackwell Qualls Pendergrass, 82, Chattanooga

Minerva Adeline Blackwell Qualls Pendergrass of Chattanooga, Tenn., died Saturday, March 17, 2012. She was 82.

She was born in Flat Rock, Ala., on July 19, 1929. She loved God, her children and her grandchildren above all else.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, J.W. Qualls and M.L. Pendergrass; mother, Ophie “Mammie” Terry; daughter, Sharon Ashman and Son, Rocky Qualls; sister, Elaine Swafford and brother, Albert Harcrow.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Janace and Bill Bynum of Bryant, Ala.; two sons and daughter-in-law, Jesse Mack Qualls of Chattanooga, James and Brenda Qualls of Crawfordville, Fla.; 12 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

Graveside services: Tuesday, March 20, at 2 p.m. CST at Concord Cemetery in Henegar, Ala. Visitation: Sunday, March 18, from 4-9 p.m. and all day Monday at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements b:y W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home, Fort Oglethorpe.

Eva Jean Herod, 80, East Ridge

Eva Jean Herod of East Ridge died Sunday, March 18, 2012. She was 80.

She was a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga and north Georgia area and was of the Baptist faith.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Earl Herod; three brothers, Harold, Farris and Doyle Wimpy; three sisters, Mildred Harris, Betty Sue Padgett and Charlotte Black.

Survivors include her three children, Kathy (Jim) Davis, Danny Townsend and Marty Townsend; two brothers, Donnie and Ronnie Wimpy; two sisters, Doris Hullender and Peggy Peters; special cousins, Evelyn and Eloise Dunn; eleven grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Tuesday, March 20, at 1:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Burial: Lakewood South Memory Gardens. Visitation: Tuesday, March 20, from noon until the funeral hour at the funeral home chapel.

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

Jacqueline Annette Dabbs Burson, 41, Flat Rock, Ala.

Jacqueline Annette “Jackie” Dabbs Burson of Flat Rock, Ala., died Saturday, March 17, 2012. She was 41.

She was a native and longtime resident of Lookout Mountain’s West Brow community and attended Dade County High School. She was a member of Lee’s Chapel Independent Baptist Church and was very active with Boy Scout Troop #304 in Ider. She was employed for many years as deli manager at Food Lion in Trenton.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Harold Collins and Reburn Dabbs; and cousins, Judy Giaconne and Rhonda Stone.

Survivors include her husband, Richard Lavon Burson; son, Richard Ethan Burson; parents, Garry and Teresa Dabbs, of Lookout Mountain; brother and sister-in-law, Deanie and Crystal Dabbs of Flat Rock, Ala.; grandmothers, Corine Bryant of Chattanooga and Gertrude Dabbs of Lookout Mountain; special friend, Nona Higdon; many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Funeral services: Wednesday, March 21 at 2 p.m. at the funeral home chapel with Revs. Charles Underwood and Harold Mitchell officiating. Burial: Smith Chapel Cemetery, Ider, Ala. Visitation: Tuesday, March 20, from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.lane-southcrestchapel.com. Arrangements by: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home and Crematory, located at the end of historic Missionary Ridge, Rossville.

Katherine C. Densel, 95, Chattanooga

Katherine C. Densel of Chattanooga (formerly of Mishawaka, Ind.) died Monday, March 19, 2012. She was 95.

She was born in Walker County to the late George and Jessie Scheivelhud and was a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

She was also preceded in death by her husbands, Morgan M. Mullin and Elmer Densel; sister, Ethel Huff and brothers, George and Charles Scheivelhud.

Survivors include her children, Beatrice Shafer of Osceola, Ind., Connie Wilson of Oxford, N.C., Debra (Bobby) Qualls of Yanceyville, N.C., Bill Mullins of Calhoun; brothers, Russell Scheivelhud of Fort Oglethorpe, Howard (Betty) Scheivelhud of Pine Mountain; sister, Norene Reese of South Bend, Ind.; 7 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Graveside services: Thursday, March 22, at 2 p.m. at Lakewood Memory Gardens-South. Visitation: Thursday, March 22 from 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements by: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Home-Fort Oglethorpe.

Michael Duncan, 62, Chickamauga

Michael “Mike” Duncan of Chickamauga died Sunday, March 18, 2012, in a local hospital. He was 62.

He had lived in Florida before moving to north Georgia 17 years ago. He had resided in Jasper, Chatsworth and Chickamauga. He was a member of Chickamauga First Baptist Church. He was a nursing supervisor for NHC Rossville.

He was preceded in death by his father, Esker Duncan Sr., and brother, Richard Esker Duncan Jr.

Survivors include his loving wife of nine years, Zerita Duncan; sons, Shawn Duncan of Chickamauga, Shane (Stephanie) Duncan of Jasper; daughter, Amanda Gmyrek of Chickamauga; stepdaughter LaWanda Neighbors of Chickamauga; grandchildren, Leah Duncan, Alex Gmyrek, Tanner Neighbors, Piper Duncan, Nicholas Neighbors, and Willow Duncan.

Funeral services: Wednesday, March 21 at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Visitation: Tuesday, March 20, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4-8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. An online guestbook is available at: www.heritagefh.com. Arrangements by: Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.

Harrie Lee Rucks, 82, Rossville

Harrie Lee “Tool Man” Rucks of Rossville died Monday, March 19, 2012. He was 82.

He was born in Fyffe, Ala., to the late Eugene Wiley and Dessie Rucks, but had lived in the north Georgia area for most of his life and was of the Christian faith. He enjoyed fishing, going to flea markets and was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who will be sadly missed by all that knew him.

He was also preceded in death by his great grandson, Nico Stage; two brothers and three sisters.

Survivors include his loving wife of more than 62 years, Dorothy Tranthem Rucks of Rossville; daughter and son-in-law, Carolyn and Tom Harvel of Rossville; son and daughter-in-law, Jamison and Deyanira Rucks of San Antonia, Texas; sister, Eugenia Johnson of Ala.; two granddaughters, Shannon Witt and Laura Stage; two great grandchildren, Cecily Witt and Damian Stage, and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Thursday, March 22, at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. T.E. Flowers officiating. Burial: Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park. Visitation: Wednesday, March 21, after 4 p.m. and prior to the service on Thursday at the funeral home. Arrangements by: W.L. Wilson and Sons Funeral Homes, Fort Oglethorpe.

Lena Fay Coleman Roberson, 69, Tunnel Hill

Lena Fay Coleman Roberson of Tunnel Hill died on Monday, March 19, 2012 at her residence. She was 69.

She was a lifelong resident of the north Georgia and Chattanooga area. She was a former employee of McDonald’s, where she worked for 15 years, and was of the Baptist faith.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Francis Willard and Myrtle Britt Coleman; brother, Cecil Willard Coleman and grandchild, Silas Gavin Roberson.

Survivors include her loving husband of 51 years, Harold Roberson of Tunnel Hill; three children, Erik Roberson (Karen) of Dalton, Wayne Roberson (Brooklyn) of Ringgold, and Michele Miller (Gary) of Rossville; six grandchildren, Christina Skidmore (Shane), Cayla Jenkins, Seth Roberson, Savannah Roberson, Eryn Miller and Sawyer Roberson; great-grandson, Jude Skidmore; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services: Thursday, March 22, at 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial: Friday, March 23, at 2 p.m. at the Chattanooga National Cemetery. Visitation: Thursday, March 22, from 6 –7 p.m. An online guestbook is available at: www.wilsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by: Wilson Funeral Home Wallis-Stewart Chapel, Ringgold.