Obituaries: Week of August 31, 2025, In Loving Memory

ROBERTSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE:

(Smokey Barn News)

*Refresh this page for updates and newly listed obituaries for this week.

 Mary Elizabeth Yunker

April 25th, 1930 – August 18th, 2025

“My way or the highway”

From the first beat of a big-band tune to the last twirl of a square dance, Mary lived every moment in bold color. Friends recall her quick laugh and fearless motto that always set the tone for an adventure. Today we celebrate a life that never once idled in the slow lane.

Born in Nashville, TN on April 25th, 1930, Mary grew up with a fierce sense of independence. She carried that spark into each new chapter, determined to say yes to every chance for fun. Being strong and decisive was simply how she greeted the day.

With her beloved husband, John W. Yunker, she filled family life with motion and music. Saturday nights meant square dancing beneath string lights, and getaways often found them camping or boating while Mary cooked something delicious for the family. Big-band records spun through it all, turning every meal into a small celebration. Traveling with the “Golden Girls” was never about the miles; it was about collecting stories together.

Mary’s love reached across generations. Though she grieved the loss of her children John Steven, and Stanley Kim, she poured boundless joy into her grandchildren Jason York, Brad (Amy) Yunker, Brian Yunker, and Patrick (Bleu Jackson) Yunker and her numerous great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren and niece, Sheri Battigaglia Horn.

Whether teaching a dance step, skiing behind a boat, or tasting a new recipe, Granana’s rule was clear: jump in with both feet. Their favorite memories still start with her bright smile daring them to try something new.

Described as a fire-cracker, strong, and a go-getter, Mary loved hard and dared others to keep up. She showed that choosing your own path is the best gift you can give yourself and the people you love. Her example keeps nudging us toward courage, laughter, and the open road.

As we remember Mary, let’s turn up the band music, grab a partner, and dance in her honor. That is exactly how she would want the next chapter to begin for each of us.

Arrangements entrusted to Spring Hill Funeral Home, 5110 Gallatin Pike, Nashville, TN 37216. 615-865-1101. www.springhillfh.com

Linda Parker Dorris

January 28, 1944 — August 24, 2025

Goodlettsville, TN

Mrs. Linda Parker Dorris, passed away at Stone Creek Memory Care on August 24, 2025 shortly after 9am after a long and courageous battle with Dementia.

She was born to James and Lona Belle Parker in Sumner County on January 28, 1944. They preceded her in death as did her brother, Jimmy Parker and her beloved son, Tony Lee Dorris in 2020; also brother in law, Dick Sadler.

Linda is survived by her husband of 64 years, Mr. Billy Wayne Dorris; daughter, Susan Annette Dorris and Hermitage; son, Michael Keith Dorris and wife Kimberly of Goodlettsville; her sister, Sylvia Sadler of Trenton, Kentucky, and many family members and friends; seven grandchildren and spouses; four great grandchildren, and her former daughter in law, Mitzi.

Linda was devoted to her church work at Wartrace UMC of Robertson County by playing the piano for many years and singing in the choir at Connell Memorial UMC of Goodlettsville. She was very involved in the work of both churches and especially the Women’s Projects.

Linda was a very talented lady of cooking, sewing, baking or whatever was needed. She raised the children and encouraged them in academics and sports. While doing this, she supported Billy in his teaching and coaching career, seldom missing a game or a match for thirty years.

She attended Goodlettsville High School and got her degree from TSU where she attained her Registered Nursing Licenses and had a wonderful nursing career of 27 years at Memorial and Skyline Hospital.

Her love was genuine and heartfelt to all who knew her and she will be missed.

Visitation will be held from 5-8pm on Wednesday, August 27th at Cole and Garrett Funeral Home in Goodlettsville. Another visitation will be held from 1-2pm at Connell Memorial UMC Church on Thursday, August 28th with a celebration of life beginning at 2pm. Burial will take place at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens.

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Carla Renee Dunn

September 23, 1963 — August 24, 2025

Rockvale, TN

Carla Renee Dunn, 61, of Rockvale, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, after a courageous journey with cancer. Born on September 23, 1963 in Gainesboro, TN. Renee lived a life filled with love, kindness, and an unwavering spirit that touched everyone she met.

Renee was the devoted wife of Nick Dunn, her partner of 31 years, whose love story was a testament to devotion and mutual support. Together, they built a life of cherished memories, from quiet mornings sharing coffee to adventurous travels and joyful family gatherings. Her warmth, laughter, and boundless compassion made her not only a beloved wife but also a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend to her children Allyson Dunn, Scott Boelman and grandchildren Zoey Jones, Taten Jones, Jaxon Jones, Andrew Boelman, Kylie Boelman, Olivia Boelman, and Walker Boelman.

A woman of remarkable strength, Renee faced her illness with grace and resilience, inspiring those around her with her courage and determination. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched with her generosity and the love she shared so freely.

Renee was a dedicated employee at Middle Tennessee State School of Agriculture – Horse Science, where her commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on colleagues and students. She also found joy in reading, collecting antiques, spending time with her grandchildren, occasionally painting or drawing and her radiant smile could brighten any room.

She is survived by her husband, Nick Dunn; children, Allyson Dunn and Zach Jones, Scott and Melissa Boelman; grandchildren, Zoey Jones, Taten Jones, Jaxon Jones, Andrew Boelman, Kylie Boelman, Olivia Boelman; great grandchild Walker Boelman; parents Douglas and Pricilla Pace; brother, Doug Pace; and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by grandparents Ray and Clara Burnette, Lawrence & Evoline Pace; twin brothers Ricky and Randy Pace.

A funeral service will be held at Cole & Garret Funeral Home in Goodlettsville, TN. on August 29, 2025 11:00am. Services are to be officiated by Dave Swanger and Mike McPherson, with Dave Whitacker to share memories of Renee. The family welcomes donations to the American Cancer Society as an optional way to honor Renee’s memory. Visitation will be held at Cole & Garret Funeral Home in Goodlettsville, TN. on August 28, 2025 5 – 8 pm.

Renee’s love will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. Her life reminds us to cherish every moment, love deeply, and live with courage. Rest in peace, our beloved Renee, until we meet again.

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Altie Lorene Russell

July 22, 1937 — August 26, 2025

Ridgetop, TN

Altie Lorene Russell, lovingly known as Lorene, a beacon of faith and love, departed this world to be with the Lord on August 26, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on July 22, 1937, in Carthage, TN, to parents Charlie and Lola Mae Kelley, Lorene lived a life brimming with service and devotion, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, as well as her sisters Mattie Jean Ayers and Alice Elizabeth Reece. She is also preceded in death by her infant daughter Sonya Yvonne Russell and her loving husband of 58 years James Alexander Russell. She is survived by her children Mark Russell and Dan (Lori) Russell, as well as her grandchildren Hannah Russell and Levi Russell.

Lorene was a woman of Christian faith. She was a long-time member at the Goodlettsville Pentecostal Church, attending services until she was no longer able. For 40 steadfast years, Lorene served as the treasurer of the Goodlettsville Pentecostal Church—a role she embraced with unwavering dedication until she was 80 years old. Her strong Christian faith guided her through life’s challenges, providing her with a resilience that inspired others. Lorene was a woman whose heartbeat in harmony with her beliefs, always turning to the Lord in times of need.

Faith and Family was her foundation. Her life revolved around God, her church and her family; she loved her boys and her grandchildren dearly. Lorene’s family fondly recalls the delectable apricot nectar cake and the savory fried chicken which she lovingly prepared in her well-worn cast iron skillet, each bite a testament to her love and nurturing spirit. She cherished these moments, finding joy in cooking for her family and ensuring that every gathering was a celebration of taste and togetherness. In her free time, she enjoyed flowers and being outdoors, especially during the spring and summer time.

Visitation will be held at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Goodlettsville on August 29, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and again on August 30, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. The funeral service will follow on the same day at 10:00 AM, leading to her interment at Forest Lawn Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens at 11:00 AM.

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William Lloyd Bales

November 2, 1946 — August 26, 2025

White House, TN

William Lloyd Bales, also known as Bill, Pop and Grandpa, age 78, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2025 at the Veterans Hospital in Nashville surrounded by family. He was born in Salinas CA on November 2, 1946 and grew up in Monterey Ca and Waco TX. It was while in Waco that he joined the military. He proudly served in the US Army with the 101st Airbourne, the 82nd Airbourne and Special Forces. He was also a Drill Sgt and received numerous commendations. He served 3 tours in Vietnam, receiving 3 Purple Hearts. He was honorably discharged as an E6 on June 29, 1976 due to medical reasons from injuries received while in Vietnam. As were many in Vietnam, he was affected by the aftermath of Agent Orange.

After being discharged, he attended Austin Peay State University while also working for the US Postal Service as a supervisor and then went on to be an OTR driver. He retired from driving in 2006.

He was a Lifetime Member of VFW Post 2120 and a Lifetime Member of the DAV. Bill enjoyed being with family, traveling, camping, fly fishing, playing Phase 10, James Patterson novels, watching football, almost any war movie and old westerns. He would tolerate watching the Hallmark movies with his wife. Bill was just a big ole teddy bear, with a good heart. He was greatly loved and will be sorely missed.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Weldon Earl Bales and Donna Jean Burton, brother Weldon Eugene Bales, sister Terri Zimmerman and grandson Christopher Brining.

He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Nancy, sons William Bales (Cynda), Allen Greer (Elaine), Michael Bales, daughters Shelley Sain (Dustin), Kelley Bales, Jennifer Brining and Stacey Woodley, sisters Mickey Gibson and Bonnie Vattuone. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, plus numerous nieces, nephews and loving family and friends.

Graveside services with full military honors will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025 at 1:00 at the Nashville National Cemetery; 1420 Gallatin Pike S; Madison TN 37115.

The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at the VA Hospital in Nashville. They have always been very kind and compassionate. Especially Dr. Audrey Stewart, Dr. Richa Misra, Megan Cooper and Stephanie.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Orange Heart Medal Foundation 13833 Owens Chapel Road Springfield, Tennessee 37172 or to the Gary Sinese Foundation PO Box 40726 Nashville, TN 37204.

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Lois Lavaughn Jones

May 7, 1930 — August 27, 2025

Eddyville, KY

Lois Lavaughn Jones, age 95, of Eddyville, KY, passed away on August 27, 2025, at Carriage Crossing Assisted Living in Madison, TN. She was born in Anderson, IN to parents Harry and Elizabeth Pence on May 7th, 1930. She is preceded in death by her parents, brother Bill Pence, daughters Ellen Wright, Nancy Jones, and Linda Shock, as well as her daughter-in-law Mary Jones. She is reunited in heaven with her husband of 68 years Richard H. Jones. Lois is survived by her children David and Wayne Jones, her grandchildren Michael (Gayal) Jones and Theresa Bliss. She is also survived by her great grandchildren Aleah Bliss, Tori Bliss, and Devin Bliss, and her great great grandchildren Abraham and Gabriel, as well as many other relatives and friends.

Her personable and outgoing nature shone like a beacon, making every gathering brighter with her welcoming presence. Whether she was painting enchanting “whirlies” created by her beloved husband, which they sold at the local flea market or tending to her blooming flower garden, Lois always approached life with a kindness that brought ease to everyone around her.

Lois loved spending sunny afternoons by the lake, fishing with her husband, where time seemed to stand still. Nature was her sanctuary; she found peace in the flutter of butterflies, the soft hum of hummingbirds that visited her garden, and the delicate beauty that surrounded her. Those shimmering moments by the water were not only about fishing; they were part of an enduring partnership and shared love that defined her life.

With a heart as expansive as her interests, Lois found joy in the small things—shopping excursions with her son, Wayne, particularly “junk-tiquing” and garage saling, filled her with a sense of adventure. Each find felt like a treasure, a manifestation of the memories she created along her journeys. Her son, David, fondly remembers taking family trips to Pigeon Forge, creating vacation memories that would last a lifetime.

Her vibrant character also thrived within her community, where she was a cherished member of the First Baptist Church in Eddyville, Kentucky. She was a member of the Red Hat Club, where laughter and camaraderie flourished. As a member of the Homemakers Club, Lois’s contributions extended beyond herself; her generous spirit enriched the lives of those around her. At home, she channeled her nurturing spirit into every meal she prepared, nourishing both body and soul. A proud homemaker herself, Lois cultivated not just plants but the bonds of family, canning vegetables from her own garden, ensuring that her love was felt in every bite.

As we reflect on Lois Lavaughn Jones’s extraordinary life, we remember her for the heartfelt connections she fostered, the love she shared, and the joy she found in nature and within her community. In our cherished memories of her, she will forever remain a lively embodiment of kindness and fun.

A graveside service for Ms. Lois Jones will be held in Anderson, IN at a later date.

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James Wilson

January 3, 1944 ~ August 26, 2025

81 Years Old

James “Shine” Watkins Wilson, age 81, of Springfield, Tennessee, passed from this life on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at his home. Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 PM on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Martins Chapel Methodist Church with Don Webster officiating. Interment will follow in Martins Chapel Cemetery with military honors and Ryan Thompson, Freddie “Kiss Me” Biggs, Tim Hollis, Justin Pryor, Mark Snowden, Randy Kemp Wilson, Cody Snowden, and Devin Shoulders serving as pallbearers and Dickie Thompson, Ricky Wilson, Sam Wilson, Kaw Mitchell Wilson, and Joe Finley serving as honorary pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Friday from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Robertson County Funeral Home and on Saturday from 11:00 AM until the service at Martins Chapel Methodist Church.

Mr. Wilson was born on January 3, 1944, in Springfield, TN. He was a resident of the Martins Chapel Community his entire life. Shine served in the United States Navy for 4 years. He was very proud to serve his country. Shine was a hard worker, doing everything from delivering groceries by bicycle at age 12 to owning his own business until he retired at age 62. He always provided for his family and knew how to make a dollar. Mr. Wilson was always willing to help a neighbor and a friend. He would give you the shirt off his back, and he never met a stranger. Shine was saved March 5, 1972, along with his brother Frankie D. They were saved at New Hope Free Will Baptist Church in Joelton.

Shine is preceded in death by his parents; Houston and Bonnie Sloan Wilson, brothers; Houston “Bud” Wilson and Frank Wilson, sister; Iris Dean Wilson Snouffer, 3 nephews, 2 sisters-in-law, 2 brothers-in-law and the mother of his children, Betty Ruth Wilson.

Mr. Wilson is survived by his children; Stevie Howell, Jimmy “Jimbo” Wilson, Angela Gail Wilson (Keith) House and Chavonne (Justin) Pryor, 8 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, sister; Brenda Gail Wilson Jung and brother; Chester D. (Diane) Wilson, several nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, great-great nieces and nephews, and family and friends.

After 9 days in the Nashville VA hospital, Shine said he was ready to go home to meet his Lord and Savior. He wanted to die at home, and God granted him his prayer. Jimbo made sure he was home by Monday night. A very special blessing to PaPa was being cared for by his daughter, Angela, and granddaughter,Kelsey Ruth (Devin) Shoulders. The family wants to give a special thanks to their tireless giving of themselves to care for him day and night until he took his last breath at home on Tuesday. He was Kelsey’s PaPa and like a father to her.

Shine was loved by many and will be greatly missed. Tuesday,he heard the words he had longed to hear, “Welcome home thou good and faithful servant”. AMEN

The family requests, if so desired, for memorial contributions to be made payable to Robertson County Animal Control. Donations may be sent to the care of Robertson County Funeral Home.

Services have been entrusted to Robertson County Funeral Home

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Henry “Bud” Witherspoon

June 12, 1930 – August 20, 2025

Henry Lee “Bud” Witherspoon, Jr., a devoted husband, loving father, proud veteran, and respected member of the Greenbrier, Tennessee community, passed away peacefully in his home on August 20, 2025, surrounded by those he loved the most – his family. He was 95 years old.

Born on June 12, 1930, Bud lived a full and remarkable life rooted in service, hard work, and deep love for his family. He served honorably in the United States Navy during the Korean War as a military photographer, capturing history through his lens and serving his country with pride.

After his military service, Bud went on to serve his community as a police officer, and later built a successful career in the trucking industry, which spanned over 40 years. Known for his strong work ethic and commitment, he was a respected businessman who touched many lives.

A true horseman, Bud had a deep love for horses and spent much of his time outdoors, finding peace and joy in the simple beauty of nature. But above all, he was a family man—big on family, full of love and loyalty. He was the heart of his home and the foundation of his family.

Bud was the devoted husband of Peggy Jean for 61 years, and the proud father of two daughters, Tricia Ellison and Darcia Witherspoon. He leaves behind a lasting legacy through his 8 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, who will carry his love and values forward.

A military service honoring his life and service will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Nashville National Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will follow on Saturday, September 13 at 1:00 p.m. at the **American Legion in Greenbrier.

Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.

AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME- 509 WALNUT STREET, SPRINGFIELD, TN (615) 384-1000 www.AustinAndBell.com

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Martha Jean Milteer

March 8, 1940 – August 24, 2025

Martha Jean Milteer, age 85, of Springfield, passed away Sunday, August 24, 2025 at NHC Springfield. Funeral services will be conducted at 12pm Thursday, August 28th at the Main Street Church of Christ, with Bro. Barry Throneberry officiating. Burial will follow in Bethlehem Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 10am until time of the service at 12pm Thursday, at the church.

Mrs. Milteer was born March 8, 1940, in Suffolk, VA, to the late Lurrell Raines, and the late Nettie Richards Raines. She was an elementary school teacher most of her life and a member of Main Street Church of Christ.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Milteer was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, John Ernest Milteer, Sr.; daughter, Jill Milteer Wood; brothers, Alton Raines and Randolph Raines; and sisters, Marie Spivey and Margaret Howell.

She is survived by her son, Ernie (Natashia) Milteer, Jr.; daughter, Dawn (Jay) Conn; 4 grandchildren, Johnathan Wood, Victoria Conn, Jessica Conn, and Taylor Milteer; and a sister-in-law, Margie Raines.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the: American Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692 or by visiting www.heart.org or to the Main Street Church of Christ, 318 N Main Street, Springfield, TN 37172 or by visiting www.mainstreetcoc.org

Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.

AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME- 509 WALNUT STREET, SPRINGFIELD, TN (615) 384-1000 www.AustinAndBell.com

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Julia Laverne Carlisle

September 7, 1958 – August 25, 2025

Julia Laverne Carlisle, age 66 of Greenbrier, TN passed away Monday, August 25th at Tri-Star Skyline in Nashville. Her wishes were to be cremated and there are no services planned.

She was born September 7th, 1958 in Salinas, CA to the late James Harvey and Shirleyann Still Carlisle.

Julia enjoyed traveling, spending time at the beach and with her dogs, Max and Milo. She also enjoyed playing golf and spending time with her Whiskey Wednesday friends

She was employed as a bookkeeper in the Marketing Industry. Julia is survived by her sister, Cindy (Ken) Frazier of Homer, AK, and good friend and caregiver, Ann Gardner of Greenbrier, TN.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Leukemia Society of Tennessee, now known as Blood Cancer United TN/AL, P.O. Box 22443, NY, NY 10087-2443. Online condolences may be made at www.AustinAndBell.com

Austin & Bell Funeral Home 2619 Hwy 41S, Greenbrier, TN 37073 (615)643-4000

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Jimmy Purviance

March 9, 1943 – August 27, 2025

James Alfred Purviance “Jimmy”, age 82, of Springfield, Tennessee, entered into the gates of Heaven on Wednesday, August 27, 2025.

A memorial graveside service will be conducted at 3 o’clock pm on Saturday, September 6th, in Elmwood Cemetery in Springfield.

The family will receive friends at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield on Saturday from 12:30 pm until 2:30 pm prior to the graveside service.

The family kindly requests that no food be brought to the funeral home.

Mr. Jimmy was born on March 9, 1943, in Springfield to the late Alfred & Mary Ann Purviance. He was a landowner and farmer. He was a loving family man and was a member of Barren Plains Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his grandparents, J.E. & Mable Hollingsworth and Lee & Emma Purviance.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Annette Farmer Purviance; son, Jim (Cindy) Purviance, II; brother, Jack Purviance; nephew, Zachary (Anna) Purviance; honorary grandchildren, Brooke Hagewood, C.R. (Ashley) Boyd, and Brandi Boyd; honorary great-grandchildren, Anderson Boyd, Annalynn Boyd, and Holden Boyd; his fur-baby, “Peaches”; and his grand dog “Annie Girl”.

If so desired, memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Jimmy’s memory to the charity of one’s choice.

AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements. 509 Walnut Street, Springfield, Tennessee 37172 (615) 384-1000 www.AustinAndBell.com

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Rev. Galen Franklin Dunbar

July 26, 1933 – August 27, 2025

Reverend Galen Franklin Dunbar peacefully entered his heavenly home on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, surrounded by the love of family and faith he cherished so deeply.

Born on July 26, 1933, to William Othar and Irene Elizabeth Dunbar in Oswald, WV, Galen’s life was a remarkable testament to service, devotion, and love. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara June Hancock Dunbar, his parents, and sister, Louise Williams. Galen is lovingly remembered by daughter, Joyce (Doug) Little of Mt Juliet, TN; daughter, Rebecca Dunbar, of Cramerton, NC; and son, James (Euvon) Dunbar, of Russellville, AR; his grandchildren, Rachel Whittenburg (Mt Juliet, TN), Rebekah Dunbar (Russellville, AR), Joshua (Sarah) Dunbar (Oklahoma City, OK), Samuel Dunbar (Benton, AR), and great-grandson Grant Whittenburg (Mt Juliet, TN). Also surviving are his sister, Dorothy (David) Redden of Bradley, WV, many nieces and nephews, and friends around the world.

After graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1951, Galen pursued his calling at Free Will Baptist Bible College in Nashville, Tennessee, earning a B.S. in Bible with a minor in missions. In May 1955, he married his beloved college sweetheart, Barbara June Hancock, and together, they embarked on a 70-year journey of love and ministry, faithfully serving in thirteen churches across the country. Galen’s pastoral journey began while working on the West Virginia Turnpike, serving the congregations at Price Hill and Kilsyth Free Will Baptist Churches.

He continued his studies at Columbia Bible Institute while pastoring in Patrick, South Carolina, before moving his family to Grifton and then Beaufort, North Carolina. There, this West Virginia native became a deep-sea fisherman, embracing life’s adventures with joy. He was a skilled carpenter as well. Galen’s ministry took his family to many places—Hazel Park, Michigan; Norfolk, Virginia; Salina, Kansas; Glennville, Georgia; Timmonsville and Florence, South Carolina—each community blessed by his strong leadership, compassion, and unwavering faith.

A tireless supporter of the Free Will Baptist movement, Galen helped build youth camps, supported missionaries, and traveled to Japan, Spain, France, and Russia on overseas trips, always eager to share the gospel with hope and kindness. Throughout his ministry he served in various roles in the Free Will Baptist ministries, notably the FWB Board of Foreign Missions (now IM, Inc.) and the Sunday School and Church Training Board (now D6 Family Ministry). Reverend Galen Franklin Dunbar leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and love that will continue to inspire all who knew him. His family and friends will forever cherish his wit, warmth, and the steadfast example he set.

A committal service will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, 5251 Robert C Byrd Dr, Beckley, WV 25801, with son-in-law Doug Little, officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be sent to the World Mission Offering of IM, Inc, or Welch College.

AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME  is in charge of these arrangements. (615) 384-1000 www.AustinAndBell.com

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Larry Joe Davis

September 11, 1956 – August 29, 2025

Larry Joe Davis, age 68 of Ridgetop, Tennessee, died August 29th, 2025 following a long illness. Born September 11th, 1956 in Bluefield, West Virginia, to Robert Lee, Sr. and Helen J. (Null) Davis.

Larry was a mechanic who loved working on cars and trucks. He had 2 Great Danes that he considered his babies. When he resided in Florida, Larry loved to fish. He is preceded in death by his father, Robert Lee Davis, Sr. and a son, Nicholas Davis. Larry is survived by son, Cody Davis; his mother, Helen Daniels; a sister, Vickie Blackwell (Robert); and 3 brothers, Jody Davis, Decker Davis and Robert Davis, Jr.

Graveside services will be held 1 p.m. Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025 at Springfield Memorial Gardens. There will be no visitation prior to the graveside service. In Larry’s memory, the family requests that donations be made to the charity of your choice. AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME is in charge of services. 509 Walnut Street, Springfield, Tennessee 37172 (615) 384-1000. www.AustinAndBell.com

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Dale “Mule” Read

June 11, 1963 – August 31, 2025

Tricy Dale Read “Mule”, age 62 of Pleasant View, Tennessee, died Sunday, August 31, 2025 at the Residence at Alive Hospice in Nashville.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 o’clock am, Wednesday, September 3rd, at Mt. Zion Free Will Baptist Church (2025 Blue Springs Rd., Ashland City) with Bro. Jackson Watts & Bro. Gene Parton officiating.

Burial will follow in Mt. Zion cemetery with his nephews serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Gary Dean Parker, Teddy Ervin, Ronnie Spann, James Sweet, Eddie Williams, and John Murphy.

The family will receive friends 4:00-8:00PM, Tuesday, September 2nd, at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View, and again from 10:00AM-11:00AM Wednesday at Mt. Zion Free Will Baptist Church prior to the funeral service.

Dale was born on June 11, 1963 in Nashville, Tennessee to the late Marvis & Margaret Fort Read. He was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, a retired sheet metal worker with Wolfe Industrial, and was a member of Mt. Zion Free Will Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, Clinton Read; brother, Bobby Read; and sister, Bonnie Phillips.

Survivors include his brother, Dick (Judy) Read; sisters, Doye Lynn (Bart) Moores, Susie Dillon, Mary Jean “Pete” Bunch, Cindy Read, and Jerri Holland; daughter-by-choice, Samantha Henson; numerous nieces & nephews; and his fur-baby, “Petey”.

If so desired, memorial contributions in Dale’s memory may be sent to Mt. Zion Free Will Baptist Church, 2025 Blue Springs Rd., Ashland City, Tennessee 37015.

AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146 (615) 746-4433 www.AustinAndBell.com

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Jo Ann Halpin

February 5, 1937 – August 31, 2025

Jo Ann Halpin, age 88, of Joelton, Tennessee, died Sunday, August 31, 2025, at her home.

A graveside service will be held at a later date.

Mrs. Jo Ann was born on February 5, 1937, in Nashville, to the late Lennie Dunn & Mildred Scott Fitts. She was retired from Lifeway (formerly Baptist Sunday School Board). She was of the Baptist faith.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy Halpin; brother, Billy Dunn; and sisters, Barbara Harrison, Joyce Crotzer, and Martha Brady.

She is survived by her sons, Danny Halpin, Ricky (Marie) Halpin, and Bobby (Vicki) Halpin; grandchildren, Angela Halpin Craig, Shannon Halpin, Clint (Alyshia) Halpin, Shayne (Jacqueline) Halpin, and Carolan (Jonathan) Carter.

AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146 (615) 746-4433 www.AustinAndBell.com

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