Obituaries

Deborah Kay Gambrell, age 65, of Erwin, passed away on Thursday, October 10, 2019 at her home.  Deborah is a daughter of the late Roger Laws and Janie (Shelton) Glover.  She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and an LPN with State of Franklin Healthcare Associates.  She was the best grandmother and loved to crochet and garden.  In addition to her parents, Deborah is preceded in death by her step-father, Ralph Glover and her grandmother, Lucy Laws.

Deborah Kay Gambrell leaves behind to cherish her memory:

Husband of 22 years: Jerry Gambrell;

Daughters: Sarah Lyle,

Mary Evans and husband, Matt,

Shannon Gambrell,

Cynthia Elliott;

Son: Chris Gambrell and wife, Whitney;

Sisters: Brenda Stewart and husband, Randy,

Karen Wilson and husband, Ray;

Brother: Kevin Laws and wife, Susan;

Grandchildren: Hunter Wright,

Dawson Gambrell,

Macy Elliott,

Trinity Elliott,

Gidien Higgins,

Jackson Killian,

Harper Brown,

Marshall Gambrell,

Maddielynn Gambrell,

River Evans,

Hazel Evans;

Aunt: Sue Foster;

Special cousin: Carolyn Brackins;

Special co-workers at Medical Specialists of Johnson City;

Several cousins, nieces and nephews.

The family respectfully requests the honor of your presence as we offer tribute and remember the life of Deborah Kay Gambrell in a funeral service to be held at 7:30 pm on Friday, October 18, 2019 at Calvary Baptist Church.  Reverend David Crutchfield and Reverend Kevin Laws will officiate.  A visitation period to share memories and offer support to the family will begin at 5:30 pm and will continue until service time on Friday October 18, 2019.  A graveside committal service will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, October 19, 2019 in the mausoleum chapel at Evergreen Cemetery.  Those attending will meet at Valley Funeral Home by 12:30 pm on Saturday to go in procession to the service.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family and viewed at  HYPERLINK “http://www.valleyfuneralhome.net” www.valleyfuneralhome.net or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ValleyFuneralHomeErwin. These arrangements are made especially for the family and friends of Deborah Kay Gambrell through Valley Funeral Home, 1085 N. Main Ave., Erwin, 423-743-9187.

Howard “Loadie” Ollis, age 92, of Erwin went home to be with his Lord and his Margie on Monday, October 7, 2019, at Christian Care Center of Unicoi County. Howard is a native of Erwin and a son of the late James and Pearl (Tipton) Ollis. He attended Erwin Pentecostal Holiness Church and was a Carmen for Clinchfield Railroad until his retirement.  Howard was a proud veteran of the United States Army having served during World War II as a Medic.  He enjoyed fishing, gardening and tinkering.  In addition to his parents Howard is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Margie (Manuel) Ollis, and his brother, Bradley Ollis.

Howard “Loadie” Ollis has left to cherish his memories,

Daughter: Tracy Ollis-Huff and Stan, of Erwin;

Granddaughter: Chelsea Hensley and husband, Ricky, of Florida;

Grandsons: E.C. Huff of Johnson City,

Evan Huff, of Erwin;

Several nieces and nephews.

The family respectfully requests the honor of your presence as we offer tribute and remember the life of Howard “Loadie” Ollis in a funeral service to be he held at 7:00 pm on Wednesday, October 16, 2019 in the chapel at Valley Funeral Home.  Reverend Dwight Dunning and Reverend Hope Fregoso will officiate.  A visitation period to share memories and offer support to the family will begin at 5:00 pm on Wednesday, October 16, 2019 and will continue until service time in the chapel at Valley Funeral Home.  A graveside committal service with military honors will be held at 10:00 am on Thursday, October 17, 2019 in Roselawn Memory Gardens.  Those who wish to attend will meet at Valley Funeral Home by 9:30 am to go in procession to cemetery. Howard’s grandchildren and nephews will serve as pallbearers.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family and viewed at www.valleyfuneralhome.net <http://www.valleyfuneralhome.net> or on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ValleyFuneralHomeErwin. These arrangements are made especially for the family and friends Howard “Loadie” Ollis through Valley Funeral Home, 1085 N. Main Ave., Erwin, 423-743-9187.

Albert Edwards, age 86, of Erwin, passed away on Tuesday, October 8, 2019 at his home.  A native of Burnsville, NC, Albert is a son of the late Andrew and Carrie (Hensley) Edwards.  He attended Faith Baptist Church and was a proud veteran of the United States Army, having served during the Korean War and was a Mason.  Albert was formerly an employee of both Clinchfield Railroad and Nuclear Fuel Services, as well as the Pastor of Covy Rock Creek Freewill Baptist Church in Green Mountain, North Carolina.  Albert loved to sing.  In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his loving wife, Shirley Ann (Wilson) Edwards; brother, Phil Edwards; four sisters: Ruth Riddle, Ruby Deyton, Ethel Pate, Lillian Spencer; and daughter-in-law: Patricia Ann Edwards.

Albert Edwards leaves behind to cherish his memory:

Son: Myron Edwards and wife, Lisa;

Granddaughter: Alysha Edwards;

Grandson: Andy Edwards;

Sisters: Mae Randolph,

Delma Williams;

Brother-in-law: Wayne Spencer;

Several nieces and nephews;

Special family member: Patsy Ledford.

The family would like to offer special thanks to the Rehab employees and staff of Center on Aging and Care, the staff of Amedisys Hospice and Becky Bennett for their kindness and care during this difficult time.

The family respectfully requests the honor of your presence as we offer tribute and remember the life of Albert Edwards in a funeral service to be held at 6:00 pm on Sunday, October 13, 2019 at Faith Baptist Church. Reverend Harold Lewis and Reverend Kevin Laws will officiate.  A visitation period to share memories and offer support to the family will begin at 4:00 pm and will continue until service time on Sunday, October 13, 2019 at Faith Baptist Church. A graveside committal service will be held at 9:00 am on Monday, October 14, 2019 in Mountain Home National Cemetery.  Military honors will be provided by the United States Army.  Those attending will meet at Valley Funeral Home by 8:15 am to go in procession.  Serving as active pallbearers will be: Andy Edwards, Morris Williams, Gary Williams, David Randolph, Dewayne Casey, Ronnie Deyton, Junior Peterson and Tanner Williams.  Honorary pallbearers will be Gene Frye, Darius Fender, Willis Adkins, Arnie Foster, Roger Wilson, the men of Faith Baptist Church and Albert’s neighbors on Chelsea Drive.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family and viewed at  HYPERLINK “http://www.valleyfuneralhome.net” www.valleyfuneralhome.net or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ValleyFuneralHomeErwin. These arrangements are made especially for the family and friends of Albert Edwards through Valley Funeral Home, 1085 N. Main Ave., Erwin, 423-743-9187.

Bill L. Boone, age 76, of Kingsport, passed away on Tuesday, October 1, 2019 at Holston Valley Medical Center.  Bill is a son of the late Sam and Mary Polly (Ollis) Boone and a member of Homeland Baptist Church in Kingsport.  He loved dogs, football and racing.  In addition to his parents, Bill is preceded in death by his wife, Carrie Yvonne (Harris) Boone; brother, Harry Thomas; and daughter, Pamela Harris.

Bill L. Boone leaves behind to cherish his memory:

Sons: Bobby Boone and wife, Shirley,

Billy Boone and wife, Karen;

Several grandchildren and great-grandchildren;

Special friend and caregiver: Judy Davenport;

And his little dog: JR.

The family would like to offer special thanks to Judy Davenport and the nurses and staff of the Intensive Care Unit and Critical Care Unit at Holston Valley Medical Center for their care and kindness during this difficult time.

The family respectfully requests the honor of your presence as we offer tribute and remember the life of Bill L. Boone in a funeral service to be held at 12:00 pm Saturday, October 5, 2019 in the chapel of Valley Funeral Home.  Pastor Terry Browder will officiate. A visitation period to share memories and offer support to the family will begin at 10:00 am and continue until the hour of service at Valley Funeral Home. A graveside committal service will follow the funeral in Evergreen Cemetery. Pallbearers will be notified.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family and viewed at  HYPERLINK “http://www.valleyfuneralhome.net” www.valleyfuneralhome.net or on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ValleyFuneralHomeErwin. These arrangements are made especially for the family and friends of Bill L. Boone through Valley Funeral Home, 1085 N. Main Ave., Erwin, 423-743-9187.

Joseph “Joe” Robert Arseemas Bennett, age 23, Unicoi, passed away on Thursday, September 12, 2019 at the Johnson City Medical Center Emergency Room. He is a son of Junior Arseemas Bennett and Lynette Bogart Bennett.

Joe was a Certified Welder and worked for Anchor Steam Power Company. He attended Buffalo Valley Freewill Baptist Church.

Joe loved welding, hunting, working on cars, 4-Wheeling, fishing and floating down the Nolichucky.

He was preceded in death by his Aunt Wanda Bennett Davis.

In addition to his parents, Joe leaves behind to cherish his memory, one brother, Matthew Bennett, Unicoi; two sisters: Lauren Heaton Arnett (Joseph), Elizabethton, Elisabeth Bennett (Cody Howard), Elizabethton ; two nieces: Serenity Howard and Bethany Bennett; special friend, Abigail B. Sparks.

The family will have a Celebration of Life service at a later date.

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Bennett family through our complimentary, interactive Book of Memories at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Bennett family. (423) 743-1380.

James W. Kane, II, age 49, Johnson City, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, September 12, 2019. He was born in Johnson City but lived most of his life in Jasper, AL. James is the son of James W. Kane (Janice) and Brenda Hawley.

He was a Certified Pipe Fitter and worked for the Austin Corporation. James was of the Lutheran Faith.

He was a United States Navy Veteran having served his country honorably during the Persian Gulf War. James was awarded numerous medals during his tour.

James enjoyed golf and played for the Navy Golf Team. Also, he worked as a Golf Pro in Worcester, MS.

James was an avid Alabama sports fan. He enjoyed going to the beach and loved the ocean. James liked making friends and loved people with his huge heart. He was always willing to help others and his smile would light up any room.

In addition to his parents, he leaves behind to cherish his memory, his wife of fifteen years, Donna Farthing Kane; one step-granddaughter, Melissa Ann Farthing; one sister, Connie Sue Kane, Nashville; step-sister, Laurie Blackard, Ramsom, WV; three step-brothers: John Kane (Beth), Elba, AL, James Stewart (Kathy), Ringgold, GA, Jeremy Stewart (Joanne), Dickerson, TX; Uncle Daniel Kane (Juanita), Johnson City; two cousins: Dan Thomas, Johnson City and Becky Kane, Gray; Aunt Doris McInturff; cousin Charles Wakefield (My true brother).

James requested to be cremated and his family plans to have a Celebration of Life service according to James wishes.

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Kane family through our complimentary, interactive Book of Memories at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Kane family.  (423) 743-1380.

Dorothy Bryant Peterson, age 83, Poplar, NC, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 13, 2019 at her sister, Betty’s residence. She was a lifelong resident of Poplar and a daughter of the late James and Naomi Howell Bryant.

Dorothy worked many years as a Seamstress for Blue Bell. She was a member of Poplar Freewill Baptist Church. Dorothy served as the church custodian and church secretary. She kept the church spotless for years.

Dorothy enjoyed gardening, flowers, cooking, canning and quilting. She grew a beautiful flower garden.

Dorothy was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She was the best mother a son or daughter could ever have.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of thirty-six years, Garfa Peterson on June 30, 2014; one daughter, Donna Pate Beam; two brothers: Charlie and Alonzo Bryant.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory, one son, Norman Pate (Katrina), Erwin; two grandsons: Justin Pate and Daniel Beam; one great grandson, Cooper Pate; one step-granddaughter, Miranda Thomas; two step-great  grandchildren: Gabriel and Isabella Thomas; five brothers: Richard Bryant (Pat), Erwin, Douglas Bryant (Carolyn), Poplar, Dewey Bryant, Kenneth Bryant (Charlotte), Wayne Bryant, all of Green Mountain, NC; two sisters: Betty Peterson, Erwin and Daphne Phillips, Garner, NC; several nieces and nephews, who consider her a very special aunt also survive.

The family will receive friends from 5:30-7:00 PM on Monday, September 16, 2019 at the Robert Ledford Funeral Home Chapel. Reverend Roger Hilemon will officiate at the 7:00 PM funeral service. Music will be provided by Inez Chandler. Committal will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday in the Millers Cemetery, Poplar, NC. Family will serve as pallbearers. Everyone is asked to meet at the funeral home by 10:30 AM Tuesday to go in procession to the cemetery.

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Peterson family through our complimentary, interactive Book of Memories at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Peterson family.  (423) 743-1380.

Rosalee Head Moore, age 101, Flag Pond, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 12, 2019 at her daughter’s residence. She was a native of Unicoi County and lived most of her life in Flag Pond. Rosalee is a daughter of the late Herbert and Catherine Bennett Head.

She was of the Christian Faith. Rosalee was a homemaker. She enjoyed gardening, flowers and canning. Rosalee was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She adored all her grand-babies and showered them with love and affection.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one son, Charles Arthur Moore in 2003; one daughter, Fay McCranie in 2016; three brothers: Luther, James and Herman Head; one sister, Ruth Phillips; son-in-law, Topper Rice.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory, five children: Patricia Stephenson (Tony), Unicoi, Barbara V. Giep (John), Flag Pond, Ernie Moore (Barbara Sue), Spivey Community, David Ellis Moore (Tina), Johnson City and Bonnie Rice, Flag Pond; one son-in-law, Tommy McCranie, Flag Pond; one brother, Donald Head, OK; one sister, Margaret Lane, Olney, IL; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews also survive.

The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 PM on Sunday, September 15, 2019 at the Robert Ledford Funeral Home Chapel. Reverend Craig Shelton will officiate at the 7:00 PM funeral service. Committal will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday in the Garland Cemetery. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. Everyone is asked to meet at the funeral home by 10:30 AM on Monday to go in procession to the cemetery.

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Moore family through our complimentary, interactive Book of Memories at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Moore family.  (423) 743-1380.

Jason Christopher Shearin, 46, of Johnson City, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 7, 2019. He was a native of Johnson City and son of  Jerry and Trudy Shearin.

Jason was preceded in death by his grandparents: Frank ‘Cork’ and Martha Archer and, HJ and Mary Helen Shearin, two of his aunts ,Sara Archer Roller and Faye Young.

Jason was a force of life with the biggest heart. He was a traveling pipe welder for 24 years, making new friends laugh until they cried. He was a skateboarder, surfer, scuba diver, lifeguard, dirt bike rider, wakeboarder. His love was his family and friends. He’s a father, son and loving brother.

In addition to his parents, those left to cherish Jason’s memory include his partner in crime and love of his life, Laura Combs and her children, Holly Dear, Hunter, and Clarissa (Robby); his son, Stone Ellek Shearin (Jasmine Moss), sister, Chandra Shearin and her son, Hunter Hensley, and many co-workers and friends from around the country.

The family will have a gathering of friends and loved ones to share memories of Jason anytime during the day on Wednesday, September 11, 2019 and Saturday, September 14, 2019 at his parent’s home in Johnson City.

More details are on the family’s Facebook.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Services, 3001 Peoples Street, Johnson City, TN 37604 (423-610-7171) is honored to serve the Shearin family. This obituary was lovingly written by the Jason’s family.

Nancy Lou Wilson

12/18/39 – 9/ 7/2019

Nancy, raised in Embreeville (Bumpass Cove), lived most of her adult life in Washington DC and the Maryland area. She returned to call Erwin home.  Before she retired, she worked with admitting in the ER Dept at the old Unicoi Co. Hosp.

She is survived by her daughter, Carla Jo; grandson, David John; son, Charles Wilson; granddaughters, Charlee and Amber Rose; brother-in-law, Butch Huskins; sisters-in-law, Luell, and Sonya; and many special nieces and nephews that she spoiled and loved very much!

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, Isham and Rosa Wilson; sisters, Barbara Jean Huskins (Herman) and Ida Sue Huskins; brothers, Edd and Sherman Wilson; brother- in-law, Brush Shelton, all of Erwin; and lifelong friend, Patsy Douglas of Gray, TN.

She will rest peacefully at Bumpass Cove Cemetery.

Dementia creates a difficult time for the caregivers, and a longing for “normal” for the person living in that confusing world. We miss our Momma, she is now at peace reunited with her brothers and sisters, her “normal” is back!

Everette Peterson, age 75, Erwin, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, August 31, 2019. He passed away at the Johnson City Medical Center from complications due to pneumonia, which he endured over the past eight months. Everette is a son of the late Jerry and Idella Miller Peterson. He was a native of Poplar, NC before moving to Unicoi County in 1967.

Everette was a self-employed Painter for forty-seven years. He was an active and faithful member of Evergreen Freewill Baptist Church. Everette loved his Lord and Savior with all his heart. He prayed daily for those he loved to be ready to meet the Lord.

Everette was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He loved his family dearly and enjoyed spending time with them and his grandchildren. Everette loved watching his grandchildren play sports.

His favorite hobbies were fishing and growing a garden. Everette will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers: Garfa and Jack Peterson.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving and devoted wife of fifty-two years, Bobbie Huskins Peterson; one daughter, Amy Banks (Tracy); one son, Michael Peterson (Misty); six grandchildren: Kayla Perea (Buddy), Derrick Peterson, Taylor Banks, Bryson, Brock and Cade Peterson; one great grandson, Braylen Perea; one great granddaughter, Maddy Perea; two brothers: Harvey Peterson (Ernestine) and F.C. Peterson; five sisters: Emmaline Miller, his twin sister, Eleanor Poole, Gertrude Street, Velva Landers and Wilma Jean Reedy (Jerry); sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Linda and Bob Sproles; sisters-in-law: Betty and Dorothy Peterson; special friends, Scott and Marsha Street; several nieces and nephews also survive.

The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 PM on Wednesday, September 4, 2019 at Evergreen Freewill Baptist Church and other times at the residence of his daughter, Amy, 212 Old Farm Road, Erwin. Pastor Noah Taylor will officiate at the 7:00 PM funeral service. Committal will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday in the Evergreen Cemetery. Reverend Talmadge Brown will officiate. Pallbearers will be Robbie Casey, Ward Howard, Jesse Hensley, Chris Wilson, Bob Sproles and Larry Anders. Honorary pallbearers will be Scott Street, Mike Jones and Walter Harris. Everyone is asked to meet at the Robert Ledford Funeral Home by 10:30 AM on Thursday to go in procession to the cemetery.

Flowers will be accepted or, those wishing may make memorial contributions in memory of Everette to: Evergreen Freewill Baptist Church, Building Fund, 910 Hoback Street, Erwin, TN 37650.

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. Revelation 21:4

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Peterson family through our complimentary, interactive Book of Memories at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Peterson family.  (423) 743-1380.

William “Bill” Carver, age 89, of Unicoi, passed away on Sunday, September 1, 2019 at the Unicoi County Hospital.  A native of Unicoi, Bill is a son of the late Dock and Birdie (Hill) Carver.  He was a proud veteran of the United States Army, an employee of Nuclear Fuel Services and a Logger.  He was a member of Unicoi Church of God and he loved animals.  In addition to his parents, Bill is preceded in death by his loving wife of 20 years, Nellie Carver and many brothers and sisters.

William “Bill” Carver leaves behind to cherish his memory:

Priscilla Gutierrez and husband, Jesse;

Gary Whitson;

Several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to offer special thanks to the staff of Erwin Health Care Center.

The family respectfully requests the honor of your presence as we offer tribute and remember the life of William “Bill” Carver in a graveside committal service to be held at 11:00 am, Thursday, September 5, 2019 in Peterson Cemetery, Unicoi. Reverend Eddie Blazer will officiate.  Military honors will be provided by the United States Army.  Those attending will meet at Peterson Cemetery by 10:50 am for the service.  A visitation period to share memories and offer support to the family will be held on Wednesday, September 4, 2019 beginning at 5:00 pm and will continue until 8:00 pm in the chapel at Valley Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Bill’s name to Unicoi County Animal Shelter, 185 N Industrial Drive, Erwin, TN 37650.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family and viewed at  HYPERLINK “http://www.valleyfuneralhome.net” www.valleyfuneralhome.net or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ValleyFuneralHomeErwin. These arrangements are made especially for the family and friends of William “Bill” Carver through Valley Funeral Home, 1085 N. Main Ave., Erwin, 423-743-9187.

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17

For the Lord himself shall descend from Heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

Karl Keesecker, age 68, of Erwin, passed away on Saturday, August 17, 2019 at Johnson City Medical Center.  Karl is a son of the late P.M. and Pauline Keesecker.  In addition to his parents, is preceded in death by six brothers: Sammy, A.G., Michael, Conrad, Steven and Jerry Keesecker; sisters: Nancy Bogart and Irene Gray; nephews: Jerome M. “Bubba” Gray, Randy, Mark and Matthew Keesecker; and sister-in-law: Penny Keesecker.  He was also preceded in death by his beloved Chihuahua, Cleo, in 1999.

Karl leaves behind to cherish his memory: loving wife: Teresa and daughter, Karla Keesecker, of Erwin; one sister: Katrinka Quillen and husband, Prezzle, of Kingsport; one brother: John Keesecker and wife, Ann, of Erwin; numerous nieces and nephews; brother-in-law: Howard Bogart, of Erwin; sisters-in-law: Margaret Lee Keesecker, of Newport News, VA, Anita Keesecker, of Grove City, OH and Carol Keesecker, of Erwin.

Karl was a United States Army Veteran, having served in Germany during the early 1970’s.  He attended Mars Hill College and East Tennessee State University.

Much of his life revolved around playing tennis, which he loved.  He was a co-founder of the Mountain Empire Tennis Association (META) in the 1990’s.

Karl worked alongside family members Sam, Penny, Nancy and Steve for many years at Keesecker Appliance and Furniture Company.  He was a Rural Mail Carrier and was always committed to being a good mail carrier to his postal customers on Route 3.  One of his most prized possessions was his right hand drive Jeep Wrangler Sport.

Karl was a member of Ninth Street Baptist Church in Erwin, TN.  He valued his upbringing at Ninth Street.

The family respectfully requests the honor of your presence as we offer tribute and remember the life of Karl Keesecker in a graveside committal service to be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, August 24, 2019 in the mausoleum chapel at Evergreen Cemetery.  Dr. Chris Bogart will officiate.  Musical selections will be provided by Karla Keesecker.  A visitation period to share memories and offer support to the family will be held from 6:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Friday, August 23, 2019 in the chapel at Valley Funeral Home.  Honorary pallbearers will be Lester “Spud” Chaffin, Tom Hensley, Jr., Phillip Hensley, Bill Tom Britton, James Bowman and Rick Rogers.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family and viewed at  HYPERLINK “http://www.valleyfuneralhome.net” www.valleyfuneralhome.net or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ValleyFuneralHomeErwin. These arrangements are made especially for the family and friends of Karl Keesecker through Valley Funeral Home, 1085 N. Main Ave., Erwin, 423-743-9187.

“For me to live is Christ but to die is gain.”  Philippians 1:21

Lawrence Shell, 91, of Unicoi went to be with the Lord in his heavenly home on August 10, 2019 with his devoted wife never leaving his side.  He was born on June 5, 1928 in Unicoi, Tennessee to David and Martha Miller Shell.  He proudly served his country in the US Army from 1950 to 1952 during the Korean War.  He retired from CSX Transportation and Unicoi County School system.

Lawrence will be lovingly and forever remembered by his wife of 58 years, Alma Davis Shell; Sister-in-laws Eloise Shell and Shelby Gage; Nieces, Judy Slemons, Karen Walker, Emily (Andy) Fletcher; Nephews, Randy Shell, Tony (Lisa) Slemons, Mike Buchanan, Mark (Kimberly) Gage; multiple great nieces and nephews.   He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Martha Shell; sisters, Mary Slemons, Gertrude Rice, Ruth Buchanan; brothers, Harry Shell, Lester Shell, Bernie Shell and Floyd Shell.

He was an active member of Redeemed Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and song leader and attended Maranatha Tabernacle. He loved serving the Lord and his pastors were faithful in ministering to him and his family, Sylvan Mullins and E. L. Wheeler.  Through his life of service, many other pastors have been a blessing to him including Bruce Teare, Brad Davis and Jim Bishop.  He and his wife, Alma, loved others and found great joy in helping those around them.

A special thanks to the loving friends and caregivers that have supported Lawrence and Alma  – Shelley and Kourtney Bailey, Alice Miller, Bud and Mary Blankenship, David Penley, Richard Smith and especially, Debra Uncapher for her great care of Lawrence plus the entire Health and Home Care Family of Erwin for their endless support of both Lawrence and Alma.

Funeral services will be conducted at 7:00 PM at Limestone Cove Methodist Church on Thursday, August 15, 2019 with Pastors Mullins and Wheeler officiating. The family will receive friends from 5-7 PM prior to the service at the church. Lawrence will be buried with military honors on Friday morning at 11am at the Garland Cemetery in Limestone Cove.  Everyone is asked to meet at Limestone Cove Methodist Church to travel in procession to the cemetery.

Condolences may be made online at www.wadugger.com. Woodall-Anderson and Dugger Funeral home, 108 W. Watauga Avenue, Johnson City is serving the Shell family. 423-928-2245.

Gary Lynn Jones, 67 of Erwin, passed away on Tuesday, August 6, 2019 at his home. A native of Erwin, he is the son of the late Luther and Isabelle Jones. In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his daughter, Elizabeth Lopez-Jones; and siblings, Thelma Ann Jones, Joe Jones, William “Jr.” Watts, and Kay Silvers.

Gary loved his children and grandchildren with all his heart. He enjoyed fishing in his spare time, and worked many trades throughout his life including construction, farming, and truck driving.

Those left to cherish Gary’s memory include: children, Gary Lynn Jones Jr. (Tammy) and Micheal Jones (Whitney): grandchildren, Austin Jones (Jennifer), Ashlynn Jones, Kobe Walton (Amanda), Tyger Jones, Jasmyne Jones, Emma Jones, Levi Jones, Ella Jones, Adalyn Jones, Anderson Jones, L.J. Mitchell, Isaiah Jones, Karina Lopez, Juan David Lopez, Cedric Booker Jr., Jahzyah Booker, Corian Lopez-Jones, and Aries Lopez-Jones; great-grandchild, Auden Jones; siblings, Phyllis Smith, Wanda Metcalf, and Rebecca Cook; and his former spouse, long-time friend, and caretaker Coretha Lefler.

A graveside service is to be held and will be announced at a later date.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.mtnempirecbs.com. Mountain Empire Cremation & Burial Services, 125 E. Jackson Blvd., Ste. 3, Jonesborough, TN 37659, (423) 547-0379 is honored to serve the Jones family.

Gaynell Yates Foster, age 74, Erwin, passed away on Sunday, August 4, 2019 at her residence. She was a native of Haysi, VA but lived most of her life in Unicoi County. Gaynell is a daughter of the late Glenn and Maude Yates.

She was a Floor Lady at Industrial Garment before the company closed . Gaynell retired from Southeastern Apparel where she worked as a Seamstress.

She was a member of Fellowship Freewill Baptist Church. Gaynell was a very active church member and enjoyed singing in the church choir for many years. She was over the Vacation Bible School Program at Fellowship Freewill Baptist for several years.

Gaynell loved her family very much and always put everyone’s needs before her own. She enjoyed fishing with her late husband, Gene at the ponds. Gaynell always looked forward to the annual family vacation at the Outer Banks in North Carolina.

She was a talented seamstress and loved making clothes for her grandchildren. Gaynell liked to enter her sewing projects in the Appalachian Fair competitions.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of fifty-two years, Eugene “Gene” Foster on March 19, 2015; one brother, Ralph Yates; one sister, Opal Whitson.

She leaves behind to cherish her memories, two sons: Allan Foster (Nikki), Erwin and Jordan Foster, Johnson City; one daughter, Nanette Foster Hall, Erwin; one sister, Flo Hoyle, Erwin; three granddaughters: Cassie Hall, Chloe Foster and Abby Foster; several great grandchildren; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Arnie and Faye Foster, Erwin; sister-in-law, Jeanette Yates, Erwin; several nieces and nephews also survive.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM until the hour of service on Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at the Robert Ledford Funeral Home Chapel. Pastor David Crutchfield and Pastor Roger Laws will officiate at the 7:00 PM funeral service. Music will be provided by Allan Foster. Committal will be held at 12:00 Noon on Thursday in the Evergreen Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jordan Foster, Calvin Hoyle, Roy Lacey, Chris Gilbert, David Griffith and Kelvin Thomas. Everyone is asked to meet at the funeral home by 11:30 AM on Thursday to go in procession to the cemetery.

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Foster family through our complimentary, interactive Book of Memories at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Foster family.  (423) 743-1380.

Vergil Rennie, age 87, of Erwin, passed away on Saturday, August 3, 2019, at the Center on Aging and Health.  Vergil is a son of the late Leo William and Beatrice Kathryn (Cummings) Rennie.  He is a member of Chestoa Baptist Church, where he served as Head Deacon, Men’s Sunday School Teacher, and Choir Director.  Vergil was a Locksmith, a local business owner and a proud veteran of the United States Air Force.  He loved bowling and owned the bowling alley in downtown Erwin for many years.  In addition to his parents, Vergil is preceded in death by his loving wife, Patsy Julia (Stallard) Rennie and brothers: Verne Rennie, Kenneth Rennie and Foster Rennie.

Vergil Rennie leaves behind to cherish his memory:

Daughters: Sheryl Hall, of Mt. Juliet,

Mary Bailey and husband, Terry, of Erwin,

Brenda Newman and husband, Rick, of Erwin;

Granddaughters: Ariel Rennie and John Biggs, of Clarksville,

Julia Moore Hall, of Bellevue;

Grandson: Matthew Adam Taylor, of Erwin

Great-granddaughter: Kallie Harper Grace Taylor;

Sister: Kathryn Shampine;

Brothers: David Burton Rennie,

Leo William Rennie,

Henry Gibbons Rennie.

The family would like to offer special thanks to the staff at Center on Aging and Health for their loving care.

The family respectfully requests the honor of your presence as we offer tribute and remember the life of Vergil Rennie in a funeral service to be held at 7:00 pm on Wednesday, August 7, 2019 in the chapel at Valley Funeral Home.  Pastor Roger Hilemon will officiate.  A visitation period to share memories and offer support to the family will begin at 6:00 pm and continue until service time on Wednesday at Valley Funeral Home.  A graveside committal service will be held at 10:00 am on Thursday, August 8, 2019 in Evergreen Cemetery.  Reverend Sheryl Hall will officiate the graveside service.  Those attending the graveside service will meet at Valley Funeral Home by 9:30 am on Thursday to go in procession to the cemetery.  Honorary pallbearers will be the men of Chestoa Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Chestoa Baptist Church’s Missionary Fund, 108 Timber Ridge Road, Erwin, TN 37650.

Condolences and memories may also be shared with the family and viewed at  HYPERLINK “http://www.valleyfuneralhome.net” www.valleyfuneralhome.net or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ValleyFuneralHomeErwin. These arrangements are made especially for the family and friends of Vergil Rennie through Valley Funeral Home, 1085 N. Main Ave., Erwin, 423-743-9187.

Ward Gibson Parker, Jr., age 56, Unicoi, passed away on Saturday, July 27, 2019 at his residence. He lived most of his life in Unicoi County.

Ward was of the Christian Faith. He was a former employee of Volunteer Restoration in Knoxville where he worked many years.

Ward enjoyed watching movies with his children, spending time with special friends, carpentry and tinkering with things around the house.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Mr. & Mrs. Kincaid; paternal grandparents, Mr. & Mrs. Parker; Stepmother, Gail Parker; one brother and one sister.

He leaves behind to cherish his memories, father, Ward Parker, Sr.; mother and step-father, Mary Lee Georgia (Roger); his children: Celina Parker (Chris Morgan), Natasha Parker, Gavin Parker, Mya Parker and Aidan Parker; one brother, Perry Parker; one sister, Maryann Hyde (Steve); one granddaughter, Madison Morgan; three nieces and one nephew also survive.

A memorial service was held at 7:00 PM Friday, August 2, 2019 at the Unicoi Funeral Home Chapel.

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Parker family through our complimentary, interactive Book of Memories at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com

Unicoi Funeral Home, 4428 Unicoi Drive, Unicoi, is privileged to serve the Parker family.  (423) 743-1380.

Hilden Shelton, age 86, Flag Pond, passed away on Monday, July 29, 2019 at the Christian Care Center of Unicoi County. He is a son of the late Alonzo and Mettie Shelton. Hilden was a native of Madison County, NC but lived most of his life in Flag Pond.

He retired from Unicoi County Highway Department in 1996. Hilden was a member of Sweetwater Church of God. He enjoyed going to church and loved his church family.

Hilden liked to go fishing, hunting and raising a garden. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of sixty-four years, Betty Shelton on March 27, 2014; two sons: Vernon Shelton and Ray Shelton; six brothers and one sister.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory, three daughters: Hilda Hayes (David), Fredia Tipton (Doug), all of Flag Pond, Eva Scott (Kim), Carolina Beach, NC; two brothers: Glen Shelton (Audrey), Flag Pond, Freeman Shelton (Frances), Erwin; one sister, Molly Hensley, Erwin; three grandchildren who helped take care of him: Angel Campbell (Adam), Amber Hayes (Zach), Megan Beloat and nine additional grandchildren; fourteen great grandchildren; ten great-great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews also survive.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 Noon until the hour of service on Saturday, August 3, 2019 at the Robert Ledford Funeral Home Chapel. Reverend Craig Shelton and Reverend David Brown will officiate at the 2:00 PM funeral service. Music will be provided by Hunter Pate and the Sweetwater Singers. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. Interment will follow in the Shelton Cemetery, Devils Fork Community.    

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Shelton family through our complimentary, interactive Book of Memories at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Shelton family.  (423) 743-1380.