Obituaries: Weeks of April 12/19, 2026, In Loving Memory

Obituaries: Weeks of April 12/19, 2026, In Loving Memory

ROBERTSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE:

(Smokey Barn News)

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

Vera Viola Chowdhury, age 84, passed away on April 9th, 2026, in Madison, TN after an arduous battle with dementia. She was born on September 1st, 1941, in Norwich, Vermont. She spent many years in the service industry as a waitress where she diligently made sure that her customers were well taken care of. In her free time, Vera enjoyed watching television and listening to old county tunes. She was a longtime resident of Creekside Center for Rehab and Rehabilitation where her presence will be greatly missed by the other residents and staff.

Vera is survived by her son Kenneth (Windy) Mocko. Although she is gone, her memory will reside within the ones she held dear.

Melvin Cook Jr., known affectionately to many as “Buddy,” passed away on April 9, 2026, at Alive Hospice in Nashville, Tennessee. Born on October 13, 1947, in Louisville, Kentucky, Buddy lived a life marked by dedication to his family, career, and passions.

A proud graduate of Madison High School, Buddy pursued a career in the automotive industry with notable commitment. He spent the majority of his professional life working for Sears as a warranty officer, demonstrating reliability and expertise in his work. Later, he continued his career at Vic Jenkins Automotive in Gallatin, Tennessee, where his knowledge and work ethic were highly valued. He was a cherished member of the team at Vic Jenkins and Buddy enjoyed working there up until his retirement.

Buddy’s personality was as distinctive as his career. Known for his straightforward, unfiltered nature, he was funny, fun, and always said what he thought, often delivering his thoughts with a matter-of-fact clarity that left a lasting impression on those around him. These traits made him a memorable presence in both professional and personal circles.

Outside of work, Buddy was deeply passionate about hunting and fishing, particularly enjoying these activities with his friends. He was an active member of the Hendersonville Hawg Hunters Bass Club, where he created many cherished memories. Additionally, he was a devoted fan of University of Alabama football, a sport that brought him great joy. His enthusiasm for baseball, which he played for many years, reflected in his active and energetic spirit.

Above all, Buddy took the greatest pride in his family. He was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, and friend, whose devotion and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Melvin Cook Jr. is preceded in death by his parents Melvin E. Cook and Edna Pauline Cook, and his grandson Tristan Cooper McDowell.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years Nanelle Cook, son David (April) Cook, daughter Diana (Steven) McDowell, grandchildren; Lawson Highsmith, Zoe McDowell, Algren McDowell, and Sophia Cook. Buddy is also survived by his brother Ronnie Cook, sister Sandra (Philip) Patterson, as well as his nieces and nephews

Melvin Cook Jr.’s legacy is one of steadfast loyalty, vibrant personality, and passionate engagement with life. His passing is a profound loss to all who knew him, and he will be remembered fondly for his many contributions to his family, community, and profession.

Services for Buddy at the Long Hollow Church in Hendersonville, TN are to be scheduled at a later date.

Born and raised in Madison, Tennessee, Betty was the daughter of the late Walter and Beatrice Cook. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 20 years, Bobby “Big Bob” Bowers, son, Charles Anglea, Jr. and brother, Walter Cook, Jr.

Betty had a deep love for the outdoors and especially enjoyed camping at Picket State Park in Tennessee with her husband. She found joy in planting flowers at home and had a special fondness for a good Hershey’s bar.

She is survived by her children, Karen Graves, Sheila Sousa, Michael (Wendy) Anglea, grandchildren, Justin Anglea, Joshua Edwards, David Halverson, Ashley Cupid, Howard Brons, Nicky Curtis, Jennifer Anglea, Nikki Barnes, and Daryl Greer, great-grandchildren, Jeremiah Taylor, Heaven Cupit, Vanessa Halverson, Braxton Hudson, Brock Barnes, Brixley Barnes, Emerson Pauliot, Dylan Butcher, Derek Curtis, Cody Curtis, Kayla Curtis, Layne Curtis, Ryan Brons, Jesselin Brons, Grace Willow Edwards, Callie Anglea, and Chase Anglea. Betty is further survived by her stepchildren, Susan Browner, Robert Bowers, Jeannie Flint, Beth Andresen and Stan Bowers.

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. No other services are scheduled at this time.

Bobby Olsen Stillwell, born March 31, 1943, in Ashland City, TN, to the late Carl & Mary Edith Stillwell, passed away April 12, 2026, in Nashville, TN, surrounded by his loving family.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Dorothy; his brothers Kenneth, Roy, & Jimmy; his sister-in-law Gwendolyn Shores; & his nephews Michael Stillwell & Timothy Stillwell.

At age 16, Bobby moved from Ashland City to Nashville, TN determined to build a life through hard work & perseverance. Coming from humble beginnings, he built a life & legacy through determination, grit, & an unmatched work ethic.

In 1960, Bobby & his late brother-in-law Bill Estes sold produce from horse-drawn wagons on the streets of Nashville, TN. They later sold life insurance door to door for United Insurance Company in Lebanon, TN. Bobby later became manager at All Right Parking, where he remained for eight years.

On September 8, 1962, Bobby married the love of his life, Sue Robertson. Together they raised two children, Wayne & Donna. In 1971 they moved to Madison, TN where they made their home for many years before later settling in Goodlettsville.

In 1966, Bobby began working at Scott Motors on Jefferson Street, where he remained for 18 years and developed his deep knowledge of the used car business. He later became a used car wholesaler before going into business with Rooster Rucker as his partner at Rucker’s Auto Sales on Dickerson Rd in Nashville, TN. After Rooster’s passing in 1993, Bobby proudly continued the legacy of the car lot he loved for many years. He later brought his children Wayne & Donna into the business, and eventually his granddaughter Misty, where they worked side-by-side, hand in hand with him at the car lot. For many in Nashville, Rucker’s Auto Sales was more than just a car lot — it was a place where Bobby built relationships, friendships, and a lasting reputation that will not be forgotten and his legacy and Ruckers Auto Sales will continue on through his family for many more generations.

He loved NASCAR, golf, & football. Pawpaw was also known for making the family favorite; his famous cornbread — something everyone hoped he would make whenever he stepped into the kitchen, even if it meant leaving a little mess behind.

Bobby is survived by his devoted wife, Sue Robertson Stillwell; his brother David (Beth) Stillwell; his children Wayne Stillwell & Donna Tharp; grandchildren Misty (Kenny) Starks, Justina Atchley, Bryce Stillwell, Magan Mayes, Reed (Joy) Atchley, & Luke Tharp; great-grandchildren Braxton Page, Alex & LayLa Starks, Elijah, Olivia, Maggie & Carsten Atchley, Jeslyn Adkins, Stormi & Jeremiah Tharp; nephews Marty (Kendra) Stillwell, David Stillwell, & Carl Stillwell; niece Paula Wright (Dennis Miller), niece Terri Stillwell; his devoted & loving friend Janet Gers of over three decades; & many other family members & friends who loved him dearly.

One of Bobby’s greatest blessings was spending the last two & a half months of his life in Aruba surrounded by his wife, family, & friends — creating memories together that will be cherished forever.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, & never forgotten. Though he may be gone from our sight, the love he gave & the legacy he built will live on through his family for generations to come.

Roy David Coulter, 80, of Goodlettsville, stepped into the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday April 7, 2026. Funeral services will be conducted Friday April 17th at 1:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Pastor Jeff Lankford and Pastor Randy Franklin officiating. Interment will follow in the Greenbrier Cemetery with Pastor Joseph Lang officiating. Pallbearers will be Ethan Roberts, Toby Coulter, Perry Wayne Hall, Roy Averitt, Tyler Roberts, Malachi Bromell, Brandon Forsythe, and Jordan Bell. Honorary pallbearers will be Dave Stone, Ezekiel Bromell, and Thomas “T.J.” Coulter. The family will receive friends on Thursday April 16th from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Friday April 17th from 11:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.

Brother David was born March 29, 1946, in Mt. Vernon, IN, to the late Roy and Eva May Gibbs Coulter. He was a Minister of the Gospel and pastored many churches over his 40 plus years of ministry and was a member of Berean Baptist Church in White House. Brother David enjoyed fishing, working crossword puzzles, and watching TV, especially his old westerns that featured Gunsmoke and John Wayne, and he loved listening to The Gaither Station and hearing the singing of the old hymns of the faith, and any song that featured Guy Penrod was his favorite. Brother David dedicated his life to his Lord, and he had a great love for his family, especially his children and grandchildren. When the great grandchildren were visiting, he was always ready for a game of checkers or getting Malachi to arm wrestle with him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters: Louise Wooden, Mary Alice Murphy, Jeraldine Smith, Janie LaVeau, and Regena Biggs. Brother David is survived by his loving wife: Wanda Holland Coulter of Goodlettsville, by his son: Timothy Coulter and wife Tammy of Dickson, by his daughers: Kimberly Coulter Knight of Clarksville, and Angela Coulter of Dickson, by his brother: Jimmy Coulter and wife Balerie of Springfield, by his sister: Faye Morphis of Springfield, and by his eight grandchildren, nineteen great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild.

Charles Howard “Chuck” McQuaid, 76, of Clarksville, passed away on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Vanderbilt Medical Center. Committal services will be conducted Monday, April 20th at 11:00 a.m. in the Middle Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery with Tim Harris officiating. Pallbearers will be Landon Joyce, Aidan Joyce, Nolan Hale, and Lyle McQuaid. Honorary pallbearers will be Clint Fox, Gary Myers, Seth McQuaid, James McQuaid, and Vernon McQuaid. The family will receive friends on Sunday, April 19th from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Robertson County Funeral Home.

Chuck was born July 7, 1949, in Sparta, IL to the late Howard Lyle and Mildred Marie Kothe McQuaid. He loved his Country and served over 19 years in the U.S. Marines, U.S. Army, and the U.S. Army National Guard before becoming medically disabled. Chuck was a retired correctional officer with the State of Tennessee and was a Christian. He loved being outdoors fishing and boating. Chuck loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and his dog: DeeDee.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife: Susan Marie Huntley McQuaid, and by his siblings: Calvin and Louis McQuaid. Chuck is survived by his daughter: Shelly McQuaid Joyce and husband Landon of Adams, by his son: Robert McQuaid and wife Patricia of Centralia, IL, by his grandchildren: Gary Myers and wife Chelsea, Rebecca Halbrook and husband Levi, Hannah Hale and husband Nolan, Seth McQuaid and wife Bethany, Rachel Ibarra and husband Aaron, Aidan Joyce, and Natalie Joyce, by his 14 great grandchildren, by his brothers: Vernon McQuaid and wife Evelyn of Florida, James McQuaid and wife Mary of New Minden, IL, and by his sisters: Georgia Stearns and Brenda Sanders both of Missouri.

Joshua Lynn “Josh” Thomas, 48, of Madison, passed away on Saturday April 11, 2026, at his residence. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday April 18th at 1:00 p.m. in the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home with Pastor Chris Mays officiating. Interment will follow in EverRest of Cheatham with Gavin Hopkins, Greg Stroud, Jamie Jackson, Mikey Grogan, Troy Dorris, and Justin Dorris serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Friday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.

Josh was born September 10, 1977, in Springfield. He worked as vehicle body restoration specialist and was a Christian. Josh was a good guy that enjoyed antique cars, NASCAR, listening to music, and restoring cars. He was preceded in death by his mother: Rita Joyce Yoder Thomas.

Josh is survived by his son: Ryan Thomas of Springfield, by his daughter: Bralynne Thomas of Bakersfield, CA, by his grandson: Jameson Dean Thomas, by his father: Ricky Thomas, by his sister: Lindsay Thomas, by his aunts: Gwen Grogan and husband Michael of Springfield, Connie Stroud and husband Jim of Springfield, and by the mother of his son: Jessica Hale of Cedar Hill.

Mary Ward Gragg, 92, of Springfield, passed from this life on Thursday April 16, 2026, at The Arbors at Springfield Heights. A time of visitation will be held with the family on Monday, April 20th from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Robertson County Funeral Home. A private family committal service will be conducted in the Springfield Memorial Gardens Mausoleum.

Mrs. Gragg was born August 14, 1933, in Springfield, to the late James Elmore and Sally Belle Morris Ward. She was a graduate of Springfield High School Class of 1952, was a retired seamstress with NASCO, and she attended North Springfield Baptist Church. Mrs. Gragg enjoyed quilting, reading, and gardening. Her favorite pastime was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Gragg, and by her siblings: Ottis Ward, Loy Ward, Estelle Hughes, and Peggy Ward. Mrs. Gragg is survived by her son and daughter-in-law: Jeff and Kim Gragg of Springfield, by her grandchildren: Emily Conn and husband Terry, Elyse Cummings and husband Jared, and Jeffrey Gragg and wife Amanda, by her great grandchildren: Cayne, Cayden, Colby, Colton, Collin, Haden, Silas, Elijah, and Raylan, and by her sisters: Ann Sloan and husband Jerry of Springfield, and Patsy Sloan of Springfield.

If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to Isaiah 117 House and may be sent c/o the Robertson County Funeral Home

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Donald Eugene Jones, affectionately known as Donnie, on April 4, 2026. Born on August 8, 1947, in Nashville, Tennessee, Donnie was a beacon of warmth, resilience, and generosity throughout his 78 years.

He was predeceased by his parents, sister Cheryl Simmons, and son Shane Jones, and we take comfort knowing they are reunited.

In his personal life, Donnie found joy with his wife, Gloria D. Jones, with whom he shared over two decades of love. Together, they created a blended family, cherishing moments with their children—son Todd, stepdaughters Colleen (Lou) and Pamela (Laudenir)—and their five grandchildren. Donnie’s nieces and nephews also held a special place in his heart.

Donnie’s career as an HVAC Sheet Metal Union worker spanned over 40 years in Nashville, where he was known for his dedication and mentorship. His colleagues admired his integrity and passion for his work.

Donnie was known for his hospitality, often grilling steaks for family gathering, while loving on their two dogs Teddy and Shelby, and their cat Sadie. His hobbies, including tinkering with cars, reflected his industrious nature and willingness to share knowledge.

Donnie’s physical presence will be deeply missed, but the love and memories he imparted will remain in the hearts of those who knew him. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may we honor his legacy with the same grace and generosity that defined his life.

Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View assisted the family with these arrangements, 6316 Hwy 41A, Pleasant View, TN 37146, 615-746-4433, www.austinandbell.com

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Jerry Dean Singleton, age 88, passed away Tuesday, April 7, 2026 after a short battle with pancreatic cancer at his daughter’s house in Springfield, TN surrounded by his loving daughter, granddaughter, and son-in-law. Funeral services will be conducted at 2pm Saturday, April 25th in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield with Dr. Eric Spivey officiating. Burial will follow in Springfield Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends from 12pm until time of the service at 2pm Saturday at the funeral home.

Mr. Singleton was born in Baldwyn, MS on December 28, 1937. He grew up in Memphis, TN, attending Central High School and later Memphis State University. He loved music and played the clarinet in both high school and college.

Mr. Singleton served in the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in Minot, ND, achieving the rank of captain.

Upon returning to civilian life, he earned an MBA and began working for AT&T in Nashville, TN, where he met the love of his life Lorelle Crawford. He continued to work for the telephone company through its various iterations for 35 years. Mr. Singleton served in the Institute of Internal Auditors on the international committee and traveled the world. He served faithfully as deacon at Vestavia Hills Baptist Church.

Mr. Singleton had one child, a daughter, Jennifer, whom he loved without limit and one grandchild, Rebecca who was his delight.

Jerry cared for his wife personally through the course of dementia, until death parted them in 2023.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, Woodrow and Estine Singleton and his wife Lorelle.

He leaves behind his daughter Jennifer, son-in-law Mike, and his adored granddaughter Rebecca.

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

Isidro “Eloy” Sedillo, age 95, of Franklin, KY passed away Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at his home. He was born January 16, 1931 in Raton, New Mexico to Carlos & Dora Montoya Sedillo. He was a rancher, auto mechanic and worked 25 years as a field engineer for Ingersol Rand Air & Gas Compressor Company. Eloy loved his church, Bethlehem Baptist Church and enjoyed serving as a caretaker. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He is preceded in death by his parents; sons, Eloy and Joseph.

He is survived by his loving wife and caregiver, Patricia Sedillo, Franklin, KY; son, Lawrnce; daughters, Angelica, Helen and Sandra; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. A memorial service is scheduled for Sunday April 19, 2026 at 3pm at Bethlehem Baptist Church with Pastor Tony Thibodeaux and Bro. Bob Carroll officiating. Visitation will be held from 1pm-3pm prior to the service at the church.

A Celebration of Life will also be conducted by Pastor Patsy Armije Sena, Eloy’s niece, at Diamond A. Ranch in Albuquerque, New Mexico. ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 White House, TN 3718 (615)672-5000 www.austinandbell.com

Henry Edward Bender, age 75, of Pleasant View, Tennessee, died Thursday, April 9, 2026, at his home.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1 o’clock pm, Saturday, April 11th, at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View with Bro. Matt Honeycutt and Bro. Gene Parton officiating.

Burial will follow in EverRest of Cheatham in Pleasant View with Shawn Goff, Reece Goff, Justin Bender, Gregory Muskopf, Phillip Callis, and Justin Gallis serving as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday beginning at 11:00AM until the hour of service at 1:00PM.

Mr. Henry was born on November 21, 1950, in Portland, Tennessee, to the late Pless & Mary Belcher Bender. He was a retired janitor in the sanitation business. He loved to fish and garden and was a member of Harper Road Free Will Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his first wife, Martha Bender; brother, Donald; and sister, Pattie.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Lou Bender; son, Jeff (Mary Jo) Bender; daughters, Lisa (Shawn) Goff and Jamie (Billy) Wright; stepsons, Gregory (Melisa) Muskopf, Keith Roper, David Creech, and Brian Ambrose; stepdaughter, Renee (Phillip) Callis; brother, Terry (Deborah) Bender; 10 grandchildren; numerous step-grandchildren; and fur baby, Max.

If so desired, memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Henry’s memory to: Harper Road FWB Youth Building Fund, 7130 Harper Road, Joelton, Tennessee 37080

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

Betty Elaine Smith, age 83 passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at Stone Ridge HealthCare in Goodlettsville. Funeral Services will be held at 1pm on Thursday, April 16th, 2026 in the Chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home Greenbrier with Jorgen Runquist officiating. The family will receive friends 11am until time of service on Thursday at the Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Spring Hill Cemetery, Dividing Ridge Road.

Betty was born in Nashville, TN December 4, 1942 to the late Jerry High Smith and Myrtle Mae Heflin Smith. She was also preceded in death by sister, Marcelle Smiley and brothers, Dowell Smith and Randall Smith. She was always telling people that she loved Jesus.

She is survived by brother-in-law, Hayden Smiley; nieces, Kimberly (Walter) Phillips, Megen Smith; Nephews, Stephen Smiley, Anthony (Jackie) Smiley, Phillip Smith, Daniel Smith; great-nieces, Jessica Knuckols, Katrina Mercer, Marcy Loy, Patti Hatcher; great-nephews, Justin Phillips, Jonathon Smiley, Kyle Smiley, Jesse Phillips and Greg Smiley.

Robert Earl Coggins, Jr. “Bob”, age 74, of Ashland City, Tennessee, died Thursday, April 9, 2026 at TriStar Centennial Hospital in Nashville.

Funeral services will be conducted at 6:00PM on Wednesday, April 15th, at Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View with Joshua Harmon officiating.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 4:00PM until the hour of service at 6:00PM.

Burial will be in the Middle Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery in Nashville at 11:00AM, Thursday, April 16th. with Jim, Chris, Erik, Holdyn, Isaac, and Nick serving as pallbearers.

Mr. Bob was born on June 25, 1951 in Ft. Benning, Georgia. He was retired from Ford Glass Company; was a proud United States Army Veteran, having served as a Medevac in the Vietnam War; and was a Christian & served as a Chaplain as a service to others.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert E. Coggins, Sr., and Mary Ruth Chambliss Sanford; step-father, Leonard Sanford; brother-in-law, Wayne; and nephew, Daniel.

Mr. Bob is survived by his children Trinity, Christy (Jeremy), Todd, Bobby, Andrea (Dave), Trevor, Tessa (Chris), and Taylor (Jim); the love of his life, Cindy Laree; grandchildren Dakota, Kayla (Erik), Taymen (Colton), Taren, Triston (Marco), Hunter (Paige), Holdyn (Adrianna), Cannon (Christian), Conner, Riley, Corra, Jackson, Ava, and Sophia; great-grandchildren Aaliyah, Jackson, Kayley, Averie, Asher, Hailey, Alex, Layla, Violet, Sunny, Israel, Abraham, Samuel, Marco, Jr., Matthew, and Kanen; siblings Marsha, Dave, Jack; special friends Holly, Bert, Isaac, Nick, and McKinleigh; and his beloved fur baby, 2 Feathers.

If so desired, memorial contributions in memory of Mr. Bob may be made to: the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.

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

Mary Williams Spann, age 89 of Henrietta passed away Friday, April 10, 2026 at Centennial Medical Center in Nashville.

Funeral Services will be held at 12 PM on Tuesday, April 14th in the Chapel of Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View with Pastor Craig Cross officiating.

Burial will follow in the Nicholson Cemetery, Hwy 12 N in Henrietta with Jeff Bagwell, Lucas Bagwell, Will Hoilman, Kevin Mulloy, Jake Williams and Wade Williams serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Jimmy Harden, Wyatt Hoilman and James Page.

The family will receive friends 10 AM until time of service at 12 noon Tuesday at the Funeral Home.

Mary is survived by sons, Lawrence Mulloy, Dennis (Theresa) Mulloy, Michael (Cynthia) Mulloy;

Brother, Ben (June) Williams and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who loved her very much.

She was a member of Waltons Chapel Church. She loved gardening, shopping, collecting antiques, cooking and riding around the farm.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Waltons Chapel Church, 2829 North Hinton Rd., Clarksville, TN 37043. Online condolences may be made at www.austinandbell.com

Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements, 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View 37146 (615) 746-4433 www.austinandbell.com

Donna Ruth Dorris Shelton, age 74, passed away on April 10, 2026. She was born on July 13, 1951.

Donna was preceded in death by her son, Jason Bryant Offutt; her parents, William Leonard Dorris and Cleo Dorris; and her brothers, Billy Dorris and Steve Dorris.

She is survived by her husband of 14 years, Marlin Shelton; her daughter, Melinda Lee Manuel (David); her grandchildren, Wyatt Gravitt (Caylin) and Colby J Manuel; her great-grandchild, Scarlett Gravitt; sister, Diann Dorris (Jack) and a large extended family.

Donna grew up in Greenbrier, Tennessee, a place she always considered home. Over the years, she worked a variety of jobs, but she found her greatest joy working as a school bus driver where she formed lasting connections with her bus monitors and parents taking great pride in caring for the children she transported.

She was a woman of strong faith who loved being involved in her church, especially singing in the choir and caring for children in the nursery. Donna enjoyed traveling, playing softball, playing games, and spending time camping with family and friends. She loved her pet dogs and cats and found great pleasure holding and caring for them.

Known for her generous and selfless spirit, Donna was always willing to help anyone in need—whether by cooking a meal, lending a hand, offering financial help, or opening her home to anyone who needed a safe place to stay. Her kindness, generosity, and compassion left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, she is loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 6028 Ebenezer Rd, Greenbrier, TN 37073. Doors will open for gathering at 10:00 AM, with the Celebration of Life service beginning at 11:30 AM. Fellowship will follow.

If so desired: Remembrances may be made through contributions to Wartrace Methodist Church, c/o Ruth Baggett, 3718 Old Greenbrier Pike, Springfield, TN 37172; Ebenezer Baptist Church, 6028 Ebenezer Rd., Greenbrier, TN 37073 www.ebenezergreenbrier.org ; St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 www.stjude.org/givehope ; or your favorite charity.

AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME- 2619 HIGHWAY 41 S., GREENBRIER, TN 37073 (615) 643-4000 www.austinandbell.com

Mark Edward Williams, Sr., age 63, of Guthrie, KY, passed away Sunday, April 12, 2026, at his home. Funeral services will be conducted at 4pm Sunday, April 26th, in the chapel of the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield with Cole Williams officiating.

The family will receive friends from 2-4pm Sunday, April 26th, at the funeral home.

Mr. Williams was born July 9, 1962, in Nashville, to the late Marshall Edward Williams, and the late Geraldine Ethel Brown Williams. He was a truck driver most of his life.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Williams was preceded in death by his wife, Stephanie Williams; and a brother, Donnie Williams.

He is survived by his sons, Mark Williams, Jr. and Cole (Ashley) Williams; 3 grandchildren, Dex Williams, Elise Rose Williams and Adelynn Grace Williams; 4 sisters, Gail (Chester) Frazier, Marsha Williams, Judy (Billy) Adams and Sandra (Carl) Smith; and his sister-in-law, Christie Williams.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or by visiting www.stjude.org

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

Alan Jay Bryant, 92, of Chino, California, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2026. He was born in Kansas City, Missouri, to Jay and Beulah Bryant, who preceded him in death. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 68 years, Dorothy Mae Bryant, whom he followed just five days later.

Alan graduated from Bell High School in 1950 and built a life centered on family and faith. A proud third-generation carpenter, he was a highly skilled finish carpenter who worked on homes throughout the Los Angeles Basin and San Fernando Valley, including several celebrity residences in Beverly Hills. He later dedicated 25 years of service to Harbor UCLA Medical Center and USC Medical Center, where he worked as a supervisor before retiring.

Alan also proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War as a Private First Class (PFC). Stationed at Headquarters, 8th Army (Medical Section), he earned the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Korean Service Medal, and United Nations Service Medal. He loved his country and was proud to be an American.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: Michael Jay Bryant (Debbie), Mark (Glory) Bryant, Renee (Spencer) Cook, and Ellen (Todd) Edwards. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Julie, Ja’nette, Jennifer, Jay, Brenda, Nathan, Brad, Brittany, and Rachel, and a cherished great-grandfather to Tristan, Ethan, Seth, Noah, Chase, Riley, Easton, Brooklyn Ann, Brooklynn Sophia, Archie, Emmett, Carter, Layla, Mia, EllieCate, Elise, and Shiloh.

Alan will be remembered for his exceptional craftsmanship and the pride he took in his work. He had a lifelong love of sports and played senior softball for over 21 years, earning multiple championships and competing in the Senior Olympics. He was deeply devoted to his faith, faithfully playing the trombone in his church band for over 75 years, and he loved his church family dearly.

Known for his integrity, strong work ethic, and quiet generosity, Alan lived by the belief that you leave things better than you find them and do the job right the first time. As a grandfather and great-grandfather, he was a constant and proud supporter at games and events.

His legacy of integrity, craftsmanship, faith, and deep love for his family will live on in all who knew him.

Together, Alan and Dorothy built a life rooted in love, faith, and unwavering devotion to family. Married for 68 years and inseparable in life, they are now reunited—side by side once more.

A graveside service is scheduled for Monday, April 20, 2026 at 3pm in White House Memorial Gardens with military honors. ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO AUSTIN & BELL 533 Highway 76 White Huse, TN 37188 (615)672-5000

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