August 31, 2003

Blanche Dykes
Mrs. Blanche Dykes, 82, 105 Dykes Hill Lane, Johnson City, died Saturday, Aug. 30, 2003, at her residence.
A native of Carter County, she was a daughter of the late Charlie Carver and Sally Odell Carver Mull.
Mrs. Dykes was a member of the Watauga Point United Methodist Church.
Survivors include her husband, Dana H. Dykes, three daughters, and sons-in-law, Kay and Jerry Freeman of South Carolina, Fay and T.H. Johnson, Maryville, Tenn., and Kathy and Steve Bailey, Johnson City; two sons and daughters-in-law, Charles and Judy Dykes, Johnson City, and Kenneth Dykes, Sr., and Marcie Dykes, Johnson City; 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be conducted at 8 p.m. Tuesday in Memorial Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Mack Houston and the Rev. Catherine Deese officiating. Graveside service and interment will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday in Happy Valley Memorial Park. Music will be provided by Steve Vannoy and Aubrey Taylor. Active pallbearers who are requested to assemble at the funeral home at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, will be Jeff Dykes, David Dykes, Ken Dykes, Jr., Keith Sams, Joey Sams, Stevie Bailey, Scotty Hubbard and Jimmy Church. Honorary pallbearers will be her great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday in the funeral home. Friends may also call at her residence. Family and friends will assemble at the funeral home at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday to go to the cemetery. Condolences to the Dykes family may be e-mailed to mfc@chartertn.net. Memorial Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.

Ruby Gardner
Mrs. Ruby Gardner, age 78, of 522 Sabine Street, Elizabethton, died Saturday, August 30, 2003, at North Side Hospital, Johnson City, following a brief illness.
Mrs. Gardner was a native of Green Mountain, N.C., and a daughter of the late T.T. and Phoebe McKinney Johnson. Mrs. Gardner was a former co-owner and operator of Variety Bakery. She was a member of the First Baptist Church, Elizabethton, and active in the WMU, a Sunday school teacher for exceptional adults and secretary of the Friendship Sunday School Class. She was a member of the Joyful Singers and the Sanctuary Choir. She was a countywide caregiver and active in Meals on Wheels.
Mrs. Gardner was preceded in death by three sisters, Mable Perkins, Gertie Pacillo and Besseleen Gouge; and one brother, Ralph Johnson.
Survivors include her husband of 61 years, G.B. Gardner, of the home; one son and daughter-in-law, John A. and Andrea Zonn Gardner of Nashville, Tenn.; three daughters and two sons-in-law, Peggy and Lester R. Church, of Elizabethton, Kay and Earl Fair, Daytona Beach, Fla., and Joan Gardner, Charlotte, Vermont; seven grandchildren, Dean and Avery Gardner, both of Nashville, Kimberly Leigh Crowder, of Knoxville, Lester Keith Church, Maryville, Kendra Estep, Elizabethton, Leah Marie Bronson, West Palm Beach, Fla.; and Adrian Bryant Fair, Silver Springs, Md.; five great-grandchildren, one brother, Arthur Johnson, Stockton, Calif.; two sisters, Naomi Webb, Bakersville, N.C., and Lucille Green, of Shelby, N.C.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The funeral service will be conducted at 5 p.m. Sunday, August 31, 2003, in the sanctuary of the First Baptist Church, with the Rev. Brent Seals and the Rev. Bob Polk officiating. Graveside service and interment will be conducted at 2 p.m. Tuesday, September 2, 2003, at Happy Valley Memorial Park. Active pallbearers will be selected from family and friends. Honorary pallbearers will be Avery Gardner, Keith Church, Adrian Fair, Ed Crowder, Kevin Estep, Scott Heaton, Ronnie Webb, Mike Wiggins and Eric Bowers. The family will receive friends at the church from 3 until 5 p.m. Sunday, prior to the service. Friends may call at the residence any time. Everyone will meet at the cemetery at 1:55 p.m. Tuesday. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.hathawaypercy.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of Hathaway-Percy Funeral Home.

Ricky L. Vaughn
Ricky Lee Vaughn, 50, of Endicott, N.Y., died at Binghamton General Hospital, Friday, August 29, 2003.
He is survived by his wife Diane Vaughn, Endicott; two daughters, Jessica Vaughn, Endicott, and Christie Vaughn, Johnson City, Tenn.; two sons and a daughter in law, Steven Vaughn, Endicott and Jamie and Amanda Vaughn, Elizabethton, Tenn.; two granddaughters, Danielle and Sara May; his parents, Arlie and Evelyn Vaughn, Johnson City, Tenn.; a sister and brother-in-law, Sherry and Douglas Vandeventer, Elizabethton, Tenn.; two brothers and a sister-in-law, Steve and Brenda Vaughn and Dennis Vaughn, all of Elizabethton, Tenn.; several nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles.
He was a member of Church of Christ, Endwell, an employee of Southern Tier Insulations, Inc., Endwell; active in the Boy Scouts, Troop 208, Endicott, and was an assistant coach for WCBDS.
Funeral Services will be held Wednesday at 11 a.m. from the Allen Memorial Home, 511-513 East Main Street, Endicott, with the Rev. Richard Sargent, pastor of his church, officiating. Burial will be in Riverhurst Cemetery, Endicott. The family will receive friends at the Allen Memorial Home Tuesday evening from 6-9 p.m. Expressions of sympathy in his memory may be made to the Memorial Fund of Church of Christ, 3600 Country Club Road, Endwell, NY 13760.

August 29, 2003

Reva L. Henson
Reva Lee Perry Carter Henson, 73, 425 Bunker Hill Road, Bluff City died Wednesday, August 27, 2003, at her residence following an extended illness.
Mrs. Henson was a native of Carter County and the daughter of the late Butler and Bessie Carr Perry. She was also preceded in death by a son, Bobby Charles Henson; five brothers, Wilbur Perry, S.G. Perry, Eulace Carter, Floyd Carter and Shelby Carter; two sisters, Irene Corbin and Imogene Winters; her stepmother, Myrtle Perry; and stepparents, Landon and Nannie Carter.
Mrs. Henson was a member of Pleasant Beach Baptist Church. She was a homemaker.
Survivors include her husband, Charles "Bud" Henson, of the home; two sons and daughters-in-law, Steve and Louise Henson, Hartsville, N.C., and Tim and Diane Carr, Bluff City; three daughters and sons-in-law, Janie and Howard Carr, Elizabethton, Judy and Roger Galloway, Bluff City, and Debbie and Jerry Perry, Hickory, N.C.; nine grandchildren, Samantha Pickering Carr, Chris Carr, Erica Henson-Chapman, Wendy Kent, Brandon Kent, Christy Kite, Daniel Dupakosi, Debbie Smith and Tina Higgins; seven great-grandchildren, Taylor Pickering, Zachary Carr, Kirsten Carr, Jayden Dupakosi, Elizabeth Chapman, Hunter and Tyler Smith; a sister, Rassie Fagan, Elizabethton; and a brother, Frank Perry, Bluff City. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
The funeral service for Mrs. Henson will be conducted at 8 p.m. Friday, August 29, in the Riverside Chapel of Tetrick Funeral Home with the Rev. Bobby Stout officiating. The graveside service and interment will be conducted at 10 a.m. Saturday, August 30, at Sunrise Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be selected from family and friends. Those who plan to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the funeral home at 9 a.m. Saturday to go in procession to the cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Friends may also call at the residence, 425 Bunker Hill Road, Bluff City, any time. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, is in charge of arrangements.

Merrele J. Smith
Merrele Johnson Smith, 64, 1229 22nd St., NE, Hickory, N.C., died Wednesday, August 27, 2003, at Brian Center East, Hickory, N.C., following an extended illness.
Mrs. Smith was a native of Carter County and the daughter of the late Jacob Alfred and Lizzie Bumgardner Johnson. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Howard Smith, in January 2001, a son, Gregory Lynn Johnson, and by four brothers and seven sisters.
Mrs. Smith attended Prayer Tabernacle. She was a former employee of Hickory Springs Manufacturing.
Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Robin J. and Billie David Lambert, Hickory, N.C.; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Johnny A. and Fran Johnson, Wilmington, N.C., and Tim E. Hopson, Elizabethton; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; a brother, Jacob Johnson, Roan Mountain; and four sisters and a brother-in-law, Goldie Acuff, Knoxville, Annie Ruth Shell and Ethel Johnson, both of Roan Mountain, and Connie and Noble McNeal, Elizabethton.
The funeral service for Mrs. Smith will be conducted at 2 p.m. Saturday, August 30, in the Chapel of Peace of Tetrick Funeral Home with the Rev. Gordon Wagner officiating. Interment will follow in the Johnson Crabtree Cemetery, Roan Mountain. Active pallbearers will be Leonard Johnson, Eugene Johnson, B.J. Johnson, J.L. Johnson, James Thomas, Tim McClellan, Jonathan Arnett and Ricky Frye. Honorary pallbearers will be Bobby Blair and Noble McNeal. The family will receive friends from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, (423) 542-2232, is in charge of arrangements.

William T. Sweeney Jr.
William Timothy Sweeney Jr., 74, 610 East Elk Avenue, Elizabethton, the founder of The Yankee Craftsman, an antique store and animal farm in Wayland, Mass., where he displayed Tiffany lights as well as peacocks and potbellied pigs, and owner of The Rebel Craftsman in Elizabethton, Tenn., died Saturday, August 9, 2003, at his home in Elizabethton.
A self-taught expert on the restoration of antique electric lights and the electrification of oil and gas lamps, Mr. Sweeney earned a national reputation for his work and did restoration work at Harvard University and the Missouri governor's mansion, among other places. Antique lighting aficionados from all over the country flocked to his showroom in a 19th century barn in Wayland, Mass., filled to the hand-hewn rafters with Tiffany lamps, Victorian lighting devices and fixtures intended for oil lamps, gas lamps and candles.
On the grounds of the farm, visitors were entertained by his unorthodox assortment of pets -- peacocks, pygmy goats, and a wild boar named Petros. He was a native of Boston, Mass. He connected with nature as a young boy and carried it with him through life. His love of animals and fascination with Native American culture colored his vision of life. The Yankee Craftsman is now operated by Mr. Sweeney's three sons, who took over the business when he retired to Tennessee in 1995 to fish, hunt and wander about with his Jack Russell terrier.
Mr. Sweeney was a plant engineer for Dow Chemical in Framingham, Mass., until 1974, when he went into business for himself. He served in the United States Air Force after graduating from Wayland High School. For many years, he took summers off and led his family on months-long camping trips to the West.
Survivors include his wife, Shirley Ann Gray Sweeney; three sons, Bruce Sweeney, Upton, Mass., Scott Sweeney, Maynard, Mass., and Gary Sweeney, Marlborough, Mass.; two daughters, Sally Sweeney Foley, Deerisle, Maine, and Colleen Doughterty, Maynard, Mass.; and a brother, Paul, of Florida. Four grandchildren also survive.
A memorial gathering was conducted at The Yankee Craftsman in Wayland, Mass. The family of Bill Sweeney would like to thank his friends, neighbors and customers of Elizabethton and Hampton for their kindness and friendship. He was an extraordinary man and we are very grateful to all of you. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, (423) 542-2232.

August 28, 2003

Ruth N. Crumpler

NORTH WILKESBORO, N.C. -- Mrs. Ruth Thelma Norris Crumpler, Applewood Lane, North Wilkesboro, died Tuesday, August 26, 2003, at Villages of Wilkes Skilled Care.
   Mrs. Crumpler was born in Ashe County on December 23, 1919, to Grover C. and Mollie Greene Norris. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Crumpler.
   Mrs. Crumpler was a member of Liberty Grove Baptist Church in Ashe County.
   Survivors include four sisters, Lucy Waugh, North Wilkesboro, Ruby Wagner and Helen Ross, both of Elizabethton, Tenn., and Lib Hartzog, Millers Creek, and three brothers, Allie Norris, Jefferson, Jack Norris, Boone, and Paul Norris, Lansing.
   Funeral services for Mrs. Crumpler will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, August 28, at Liberty Grove Baptist Church in Ashe County with Mr. Joe Brown, Mr. William Scott, Mr. J.C. Trivette and Mr. Wallace Greer officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery. The family received friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, August 27, at Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home, North Wilkesboro. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to Hospice of Wilkes, P.O. Box 609, North Wilkesboro, N.C. 28659 or to Liberty Grove Church Cemetery Fund, Fleetwood, N.C. Condolences may be sent online at reinssturdivant.com. Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of North Wilkesboro, N.C., is serving the Crumpler Family.

Bertha B. Estep

   Bertha Bryant Estep, 94, 144 Leach Circle, Jonesborough, went to be with the Lord Wednesday, August 27, 2003, in the Johnson City Medical Center.
   Mrs. Estep was a native of Carter County and had lived most of her life in Washington County. She was a daughter of the late John and Nancy Bryant and was also preceded in death by her husband, Allen Estep, and by a son, a daughter and several brothers and sisters.
   Mrs. Estep was a homemaker and a faithful member of First Free Will Baptist Church, and at the time of her death was the oldest living charter member.
   Survivors include two sons and a daughter-in-law, James Estep, Jonesborough, and Howard and Mary Estep, Elizabethton, and two daughters and a son-in-law, Laura Pauff, Johnson City, and Mary and Don Williams, Plant City, Fla. Thirteen grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, nine great-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews also survive.
   Funeral services for Mrs. Estep will be conducted at 7 p.m. Friday, August 29, at First Freewill Baptist Church with the Rev. Kenneth Grindstaff and Mr. Howard Estep officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m. Thursday, August 28, at Morris-Baker Funeral Home. Interment will follow the committal service at 10 a.m. Saturday, August 30, at Washington County Memory Gardens, where the family and friends are asked to meet for the service. Active pallbearers will be William Gaddy, Michael Estep, Daniel Estep, Chris Estep, Wayne Estep and David Pauff. Honorary pallbearers will be Lanny Sheets and members of First Free Will Baptist Church. Online condolences may be sent to the Estep family via www.morrisbaker.com. Arrangements are by Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 Oakland Avenue, Johnson City.

August 27, 2003

Ernest Morton
Ernest Morton, 50, 5001 Sisk Hill Road, Vale, North Carolina, died Monday, August 25, 2003 in the Lincoln Medical Center, Lincolnton, N.C.
A native of Carter County, he was a son of Mary Lyons Morton Stevens, Hampton, and the late John Henry Morton.
He had lived in North Carolina for the past 18 years. He was retired due to disability from the Carolina Clutch and Brake, Hickory, N.C.
He was of the Freewill Baptist faith.
Mr. Morton was preceded in death by a brother, Charles Allen Morton, and a daughter, Dawn Michelle.
Survivors, in addition to his mother, include a daughter, Christine Grant, of Lincolnton, N.C.; his step-father, Bailey Stevens, of Hampton; five sisters, Edna Spangle and Janice Ingle, both of Vale, N.C.; Anita Feathers, of Madisonville, Tenn.; Lori Honeycutt, Hampton, and Sue Morton, of Elizabethton; two brothers, Earl Morton, of Hickory N.C. and James Morton, of Vale, N.C.; a step-brother, Larry Stevens, of Elizabethton, and a step-sister, Kathy Stevens, Elizabethton. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
Services were private.
Memorial Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

August 26, 2003

Joey Pendley

   Joey Pendley, 38, 108 Crabtree Road, Roan Mountain, died Monday, August 25, 2003, in Roan Mountain.
   Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced at a later date.
   Tetrick Funeral Home of Elizabethton is in charge of arrangements.

Earl D. Walsh

   SEVERNA PARK, Md. -- Earl D. Walsh, 73, of Arnold, Md., died Sunday, August 24, 2003, at Anne Arundel Medical Center following a brief illness.
   Mr. Walsh was born and raised in Butler, Tenn., and had lived in Arnold for 35 years. He was a 1956 graduate of East Tennessee State University, and was a retired Chemical Engineer after 25 years with Westinghouse.
   Mr. Walsh served in the U.S. Air Force from 1945-1955. He enjoyed fishing and camping, and was assistant scout master for five years. He loved working crossword puzzles.
   Survivors include his wife, Margaret J. Walsh, Arnold; two daughters, Cheryl A. Brock, Arnold, and Susan C. Whittington, Annapolis; a son, Larry A. Walsh, Pasadena; three sisters, Gladys Evans, Ula Mae Main and Anna Ruth Campbell, all of Butler, Tenn.; and four brothers, Roddie V. Walsh Jr., Kingsport, Tenn., James Walsh, Springfield, Mo., Bill Walsh and Joe Walsh, both of Butler, Tenn. Seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild also survive.
   Visitation will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, August 27, at Barranco & Sons Funeral Home in Severna Park. Interment will be at Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Crownsville at 10:45 a.m. Thursday, August 28, with Pastor Janice Marie E. Lowden officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the National Children's Cancer Society, 1015 Locust, Suite 600, St. Louis, MO 63101.
   Barranco & Sons, P.A. Severna Park Funeral Home, 495 Ritchie Highway, Severna Park, Md., (410) 647-2400, is in charge of arrangements.

August 25, 2003

Polly J. Johnson
Polly James Johnson, 201 W. Mill Street, Elizabethton, died Friday, August 22, 2003, at Johnson City Medical Center following a brief illness.
Mrs. Johnson was a native of Boone, N.C., and the daughter of the late William M. and Callie Miller James. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Arnold Johnson, two sisters, Lahoma Taylor and Margaret Greenwell, and two brothers, Jesse James and Vilas Miller.
Mrs. Johnson was of the Baptist faith. She was owner/operator of Betsy Beauty Salon and had been an instructor for Paul's School of Hair Design. She was a member of National Hairdressers Association and was also a member of Order of Eastern Star #163.
Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Larry and Sherry Johnson, Blountville, a daughter and son-in-law, Glenda and Joseph Broyles, Johnson City; a granddaughter, Becky Jenkins, Gray; three grandsons, Tim Vines and Aron Johnson, both of Jonesborough, and Dewey Johnson, Johnson City; four great-grandchildren, Landon Jenkins and Lauryn Jenkins, both of Gray, Meghan Vines and Andrew Vines, both of Jonesborough; a sister, Ethel Biggs, of Johnson City, and special friends, Jean Shelton, Germaine Greer, Eula Mae Morrell and Liza Moore, all of Elizabethton.
The funeral service for Mrs. Johnson will be conducted at 8 p.m. Monday, August 25, in the Chapel of Peace of Tetrick Funeral Home with the Rev. Don Page officiating. Music will be under the direction of Kim Garland. Committal and entombment services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, August 26, in the Mausoleum of Peace at Happy Valley Memorial Park. Active pallbearers will be selected from family and friends. Honorary pallbearers will be the emergency room doctors and nurses at Johnson City Medical Center, I.C.U. and 3300 Wing at Johnson City Medical Center, and Jim Leslie. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Friends may also call at the residence, 201 Mill Street, Elizabethton, from 12 noon to 4 p.m. Sunday or from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, is in charge of arrangements.

August 24, 2003

Benjamin A. Diamond
AUSTIN, Texas -- Benjamin Arden Diamond, 85, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 21, 2003.
Mr. Diamond was a resident at New Hope Manor in Cedar Park, Texas. He was born on May 27, 1918, in Miami, Fla., to Elliott Arden and Louise Brooke Diamond. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Loretta Diamond, and a grandson, Bennie.
Mr. Diamond proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force during World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, retiring after 21 years of service.
He will be greatly missed.
Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Susie and K.C. Vearner, Lago Vista; a son, Donald Diamond, of North Carolina; grandchildren, David, Shannon, Amber, James, Jonathan, Christopher and Keagan; great-grandchildren, Jonathan, Michaela and Blake; a brother and sister-in-law, Brooke and Nancy Diamond, Arcadia, Fla.; a sister, Mary Diamond, Miami, Fla.; a nephew, Nicky Diamond and family, and a niece, April Hodges, all of Arcadia, Fla.; and special friends, Charlie and Sharon Fansler, Orlando, Fla. Numerous nieces and nephews in Tennessee and Florida also survive.
The family will receive friends from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, August 24, at Beck Funeral Home, Cedar Park, Texas. Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, August 27, at Joshua Creek Cemetery, Arcadia, Fla., with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Mr. Diamond's honor to your local church. Arrangements are under the direction of Beck Funeral Home, Cedar Park/Leander, (512) 259-1610.

Iva Lee Grindstaff
Iva Lee Grindstaff, 78, formerly of 910 DeJarnette Street, Elizabethton, died Friday, August 22, 2003, at Ivy Hall Nursing Hall, Elizabethton, following an extended illness
Mrs. Grindstaff was a native of Carter County and the daughter of the late Charles Bruce and Eliza Carden Estep. She was also preceded in death by two sisters, Velma Fortner and Viola Estep, a brother, Conley Estep, and an infant brother, Floyd Estep.
Mrs. Grindstaff was a member of Grace Baptist Church. She was a retired employee of North American Rayon Corporation after 40 years of service.
Survivors include her husband of 58 years, Vester F. Grindstaff, of the home; two daughters and sons-in-law, Shirley and S. Joe Taylor and Judy and Jim Walker, all of Elizabethton; a granddaughter, Jessica Leanne Taylor, Elizabethton; a brother and sister-in-law, Curtis and Patsy Estep, Piney Flats; and a stepgrandson and his wife, Jay and Pam Walker, Gray. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
The funeral service for Mrs. Grindstaff will be conducted at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, August 24, in the Chapel of Peace of Tetrick Funeral Home with the Rev. Ron Owens and the Rev. Walker Roberson officiating. Music will be under the direction of the Rev. Gordon Kyte, Kathy Wilson and Pat Presnell. The graveside service and interment will be conducted at 2 p.m. Monday, August 25, at Vester Cemetery, Blevins Hollow. Active pallbearers will be selected from family and friends. Those who plan to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the funeral home chapel at 1 p.m. Monday to go in procession to the cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Friends may also call at the home of a daughter and son-in-law, Shirley and S. Joe Taylor, 1201 Erie Lane, Elizabethton, any time. Those who prefer in lieu of flowers may make donations in memory of Mrs. Grindstaff to the Alzheimer's Association, Northeast TN Chapter, 207 North Boone Street, Suite 1050, Johnson City, TN 37604. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, is in charge of arrangements.

Howard R. Hyder
Howard R. Hyder, 157 Joshua Lane, Johnson City, died Thursday, August 21, 2003, at his residence.
Mr. Hyder was a native of Carter County and the son of the late Ora and Phoebe Dugger Hyder. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Mack Hyder and Sexton Hyder, and two sisters, Ota Collins and Edith Young.
Mr. Hyder was a graduate of Happy Valley High School and attended Milligan College. He was a retired employee of the North American Rayon and Bemberg Corporations. He was a retired member of the Tax Equalization Board and had served on the Carter County Commission. He was a member of Powder Branch Baptist Church.
Survivors include his wife, Laura Mae Hyder, of the home; three sons and daughters-in-law, David and Kim Hyder and Ora and Katherine Hyder, all of Powder Branch, and Sam Jack and Janet Hyder, Seattle, Wash.; a daughter and son-in-law, Terry and Lee Hubbard, Powder Branch; a grandson, Josh Hubbard, Powder Branch; a stepgrandson, Christopher Tanner, Powder Branch; three grandchildren, all of Seattle, Wash.; a special cousin, Haynes McKeehan; and a special friend, Horace Whitson.
The funeral service for Mr. Hyder will be conducted at 8 p.m. Sunday, August 24, in the Sunset Chapel of Hathaway-Percy Funeral Home with the Rev. Art Webb, Dr. Tony Oliver and the Rev. James Archer officiating. Music will be under the direction of the Rev. James and Arlane Archer. Graveside service and interment will be conducted at 10 a.m. Monday, August 25, at Happy Valley Memorial Park. Active pallbearers will be Charles Hollowell, Mack C. Hyder Jr., Richard "Jarfly" Dugger, Steve "Fire Ball" Lewis, Chris Grindstaff, Patrick Barrett, Kenneth Mann and Tommy Hyder. Honorary pallbearers will be Pat Hampton, Charles Riley, John McKeehan Jr., Carrol "Moose" Mann and the men of Doyle's Tire, Steve and Ann Kyte, Mike Honeycutt, Johnny Holtsclaw, Charlie Bayless, Carl Townsend, Melvin Livingston, Albert Livingston, Clint Perkins Jr., Don Henley, Truman Clark, Johnny Holdren, Jeff Duncan, Sherman Hubbard, Bill Bumgardner, Kevin Ward, Dr. David Fenner, Dr. Kevin McCoy, Jerry Weaver, Lynn Scott, Ken Dugger, Chuck and Gail Broyles, Joe Ford, the HVE Kitchen Staff and the Carter County Courthouse employees. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday. Friends may also call at the residence, 157 Joshua Lane, Johnson City, at any time. Everyone will meet at the funeral home at 9:15 a.m. Monday to go in procession to the cemetery. In lieu of flowers to those who desire memorials may be made to the East Tennessee Christian Children's Home, P.O. Box 1147, Elizabethton, TN 37644. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.hathawaypercy.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Hathaway-Percy Funeral Home.

Dallas M. Lowe
Dallas M. Lowe, 63, 1435 Broad Street, Elizabethton, died Friday, August 22, 2003, at his residence.
Mr. Lowe was a native of Elizabethton and the son of the late Earl and Hallie Echols Lowe. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Ralph Lowe.
Mr. Lowe was a member of Watauga Valley Free Will Baptist Church and was a retired employee of T.V.A. as a pipefitter. He was a member of Pipefitters Union Local #538 and a 1959 graduate of Unaka High School. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and was a loyal supporter to the Unaka High School basketball and football programs.
Survivors include his wife, Jean Lowe, of the home; four sons and three daughters-in-law, Forrest Lowe and Bobby and Vickie Winters, all of Elizabethton, Keith and Stephanie Richardson, Knoxville, and Ritchie and Vickie Burrow, Elizabethton; a grandson, Caleb Richardson, Knoxville; two brothers and a sister-in-law, Raymond Lowe and Shona and Lois Lowe, all of Elizabethton; a sister, Frances Davenport, Elizabethton; and a sister-in-law, Shirley Nicholson, Elizabethton. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
The funeral service for Mr. Lowe will be conducted at 8 p.m. Sunday, August 24, in the Riverside Chapel of Tetrick Funeral Home with the Rev. Jerry Cannon, the Rev. Stephen Harris and the Rev. Jonas Revis officiating. Music will be under the direction of the Rev. Stephen Harris. The graveside service and interment will be conducted at 10 a.m. Monday, August 25, at Blevins Cemetery, Liberty Hollow. Active pallbearers will be Jerry Cochran, Lloyd Lowe, Melvin Nave, Carl Nidiffer, Steve Burrough, William Richardson, Larry Norris and Richard Hardin. Honorary pallbearers will be Jonathan Hardin, Roger Dale Taylor, Terry Lane, Johnny Berry, Harry Campbell, L.D. Livingston, Scott Pierce, Monty Lowe, Joey Lowe, Henry Wayne Ensor, Keith Bowers, Robert Lynn Furchies, Sonny Elliott and the members of Watauga Valley Free Will Baptist Church. Those who plan to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the cemetery at 9:50 a.m. Monday. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Friends may also call at the residence, 1435 Broad Street, Elizabethton. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, is in charge of arrangements.

Minnie Nave
Mrs. Minnie Esther Campbell Nave, 89, 520 Sycamore Gardens, Elizabethton, died Thursday, August 21, 2003, at her residence.
Mrs. Nave was a native of Carter County and a daughter of the late Chris C. and Callie Pierce Campbell. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Charlie H. Nave, August 24, 1989.
Mrs. Nave was saved at Union Baptist Church, Hampton, at the age of 12. She was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church and the Esther Sunday School Class. She had been teacher of that class for over 38 years and was presently serving as the assistant teacher of the class.
Survivors include a daughter, Charlotte Taylor Dunn, Roan Mountain; three sons and two daughters-in-law, Charles Sammy Nave and Conn M. and Sherry Nave, all of Elizabethton, and Cloe H. and Shelia Nave, Fairmount, Ga.; and two brothers, Willard Campbell, Hampton, and Hyder Campbell, White Pine. Six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren also survive.
Funeral services for Mrs. Nave will be conducted at 2 p.m. Sunday, August 24, at Memorial Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Steve Witt and the Rev. John Perkins officiating. Music will be provided by Sandra Taylor Budden. Interment will follow at Happy Valley Memorial Park. Active pallbearers will be John Large Jr., William Budden, O.J. Taylor Jr., Doug R. Nave, Seth Thompson, Rebecca Lindsay, Dale Shook and Kenny Simerly. Honorary pallbearers will be her church family, friends and neighbors. The family will receive friends from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Friends may also call at her residence. For those who prefer, memorials may be made in memory of Mrs. Nave to the Building Fund of Immanuel Baptist Church, 205 Hunter Avenue, Elizabethton, TN 37643 or the Carter County Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 776, Elizabethton, TN 37644. Condolences may be e-mailed to the Nave Family at mfc@chartertn.net. Memorial Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Dallas C. Owens
Dallas Clayton Owens, 59, 125 Rockingham Road, Gray, died Saturday, August 23, 2003, at his residence following an extended illness.
Mr. Owens was a native of Tazewell, Va., and the adopted son of the late Robert Stewart and Mary Etta Whitt Owens.
Honorably serving his country for 20 years in the U.S. Army, Mr. Owens served three tours of duty in Vietnam and retired from the Army in 1982. He was a member of the Captain Lynn H. Folsom VFW Post #2166 of Elizabethton. He loved playing pinochle and was a coin collector.
Survivors include his wife, Patricia Ann Wood Owens, Gray; a daughter, Shelia Mowdy, Gray; three sons, Glen Owens and his fiancee, Debbie Baird, both of Gray, Barry Owens and his wife, Anita, Lebanon, Va., and Steven Owens and his fiancee, Christy Ann Shell, both of Limestone; his mother, Doris Taylor, Parisburg, Va.; four granddaughters, Chelsey Owens, Christal Mowdy and Ashley Mowdy, all of Gray, and Danielle Owens, Lebanon, Va.; and four grandsons, Patrick Owens and Dylan Mowdy, both of Gray, and Robert Owens and Joshua Owens, both of Lebanon, Va.
The Celebration of Life Service for Mr. Owens will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, August 25, in the Sunrise Chapel of Tetrick Funeral Services with Brothers Jimmy Moore, Ronnie Beavers, Elmer Lester and Willard Owens officiating. Music will be under the direction of the Hope Primitive Baptist Church Choir. Visitation will begin at 5 p.m. and continue until the service hour on Monday. The committal service will be held in the chapel following the funeral with military honors being conducted by the Charles Dewitt Byrd VFW Post #3382 of Kingsport. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 508 Princeton Road, Suite 102, Johnson City, TN 37601. Condolences may be sent to the Owens Family via our Web site at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral & Cremation Services, 3001 Peoples Street, Johnson City, is in charge of arrangements for the Owens family.

L.J. Shell
BEAVER DAM, Ky. -- L.J. "Jay" Shell, 69, of Beaver Dam, died Friday, August 22, 2003, at his residence.
Mr. Shell was a native of Jonesborough, Tenn. He was a retired employee of General Motors and was a U.S. Air Force veteran, having served during the Korean War. He attended Green River Baptist Church, Cromwell, Ky.
Survivors include his wife, Dimple Dockery Shell; a son, L.J. Shell Jr., Johnson City, Tenn.; two daughters, Wanda Davis, Kannapolis, N.C., and Kathy Stout, Telford, Tenn.; a brother, Luther Shell of Tennessee; and a sister, Berlin Pardue, Erwin, Tenn. Five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren also survive.
Funeral services will be conducted at 8 p.m. Monday, August 25, at Tetrick Funeral Home in Elizabethton, Tenn. Interment will be held at Monte Vista Burial Park in Johnson City, Tenn. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, August 25, at Tetrick Funeral Home in Elizabethton. Tetrick Funeral Home of Elizabethton is in charge of local arrangements.

Wayne P. Winters
Wayne Pierce Winters, 65, 136 Spears Avenue, Elizabethton, died Friday, August 22, 2003, at Sycamore Shoals Hospital.
Mr. Winters was a native of Carter County and a son of the late Horton Winters and Myrtle Jones Winters, Elizabethton. He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Hilda Winters.
Mr. Winters was a member of Borderview Christian Church, where he was a past deacon. He was a retired employee of Beaunit Fibers and North American Rayon Corporation and was a past volunteer at the Carter County Rescue Squad and the Tennessee National Guard. He was a chairman of the board of directors at Happy Valley Credit Union and was a member of the B & K Community Center.
Survivors include his wife of 46 years, Mildred Ward Winters, of the home; a daughter, Darlene Jolly Winters; a granddaughter, Jacqueline Chambers; a great-grandson Caleb A. Metros; a grandson, Derrick W. Chambers, his fiancee, Danielle Johnson, and soon-to-be-born great-granddaughter, Dacey W. Chambers; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Dula Markland Hensley and Dale Hensley and Evelyn Whitehead Johnson and Wayne Whitehead, all of Elizabethton; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Roger and Loretta Winters, Elizabethton, and David and Lois Winters, Westlake, Ohio; and an uncle, Milborn Jones, Elizabethton. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
The funeral service for Mr. Winters will be conducted at 3 p.m. Monday, August 25, in the Riverside Chapel of Tetrick Funeral Home with Mr. Kirk Langston officiating. Music will be under the direction of Ruby Metros, Crystal Hensley and Mike Puckett. Interment will follow at Happy Valley Memorial Park. Active pallbearers will be Allen Whitehead, Grady Whitehead, Kenny Markland, Chris Hensley, Charlie Murray, Josh Metros, Joe Campbell, Ron Jolly and Ron McCloud. Honorary pallbearers will be the men of Borderview Christian Church, Dr. Scott Caudle, Jack Harris, Matthew Morley, Gordon Whitehead, Leslie Markland, Paul Hopson, Sonny Pierce and Earnest Grindstaff. The family would like to express a special thanks to the medical team, doctors and nurses of Sycamore Shoals Hospital. The family will receive friends from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Friends may also call at the residence, 136 Spears Avenue, Elizabethton. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, is in charge of arrangements.

August 22, 2003

Howard R. Hyder

   Mr. Howard R. Hyder, 157 Joshua Lane, Johnson City, died Thursday, August 21, 2003 in the Sycamore Shoals Hospital.  Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later.  Arrangements are under the direction of Hathaway-Percy Funeral Home.

Minnie Nave

   Mrs. Minnie Esther Campbell Nave, 89, 520 Sycamore Gardens, Elizabethton, died Thursday, August 21, 2003 at her residence.
   Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later.
   Memorial Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

J.B. Turbyfill

   J.B. Turbyfill, 69, of Farmville, Virginia, died at his residence on Wednesday, August 20, 2003.
   He was a native of Elizabethton and was the son of Beulah Oaks Turbyfill of Elizabethton and the late Dallas E. Turbyfill.
   He attended Elizabethton High School and was a member of the Church of God of Prophecy of Farmville, Va.
   Survivors, in addition to his mother, include his wife, Geneva Nave Turbyfill; one son and daughter-in-law, Jack and Brenda Turbyfill, of Axton, Va.; one daughter, Debbie Wallace, of Farmville, Va.; a sister and brother-in-law, Pat and Ronnie Snider, of Dublin, Va.; a brother-in-law, Buddy Nave, of Elizabethton; four uncles, Robert, Doyle and Dennis Turbyfill, of Elizabethton, and Stewart Turbyfill, of Kingsport; two granddaughters, Holly Wallace and Michelle Bowman, and two great granddaughters. Several cousins also survive.
   Funeral services for J.B. Turbyfill and burial will be held on Friday, August 22, 2003 in Farmville, Va. Shor
   ter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Courtesy of Memorial Funeral Chapel.

August 21, 2003

Charles T. Milam
Charles T. Milam, 92, 184 Taylortown Road, Johnson City, died Tuesday, August 19, 2003 in the Johnson City Medical Center.
A native of the Laurel Bloomery section of Johnson County, he was a son of the late T.A. and Mae Ray Milam.
He had lived a number of years in Carter County. Mr. Milam was a retired carpenter and an active farmer until his death.
He was a charter member and a deacon of the Range Community Christian Church. He was a former member, deacon and Sunday School teacher at the Brick Christian Church. He taught Sunday School since the age of 16.
Mr. Milam was a member of Watauga Masonic Lodge #622 and the Knoxville Scottish Rite Bodies.
Mr. Milam served in the U.S. Army from 1930 to 1933 in the Artillery Division in the Panama Canal zone.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, whom he had been married to for 62 years, Margaret Catherine Blevins Milam, who died January 26, 1997; by a son, Argil R. Milam; three sisters, Florence Morefield, Ilene Elliott and Ruth Rouse, and by four brothers, Paul, Fred, Clyde and George Milam.
Survivors include his wife, Lotus Campbell Milam; a son and daughter-in-law, J. Fred and Kathy Milam, Johnson City; two sisters, Pauline McJunkins and Sue Forbes Campbell, both of Elizabethton; four grandsons, Chuck Milam, Eddie Milam, Chuck Baker and Sean Milam; one granddaughter, Angie Ellis, and two great grandchildren, Lily Milam and Jacob Milam. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral services for Charles T. Milam will be conducted at 8 p.m. Thursday, August 21, 2003 in Memorial Funeral Chapel with Mr. Glenn Keller and Mr. Joel Stauffer, ministers, officiating. Graveside services and interment will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, August 22, 2003 in Happy Valley Memorial Park. Barbara Swanay will provide the music. Active pallbearers, who are requested to assemble at the funeral home at 9:30 a.m. Friday, will be Chuck Milam, Eddie Milam, Tom Ellis, Chuck Baker, Sean Milam, Steve Milam, Bob Blevins, and Tommy Blevins. Honorary pallbearers will be Dr. Carlos Floresquerra, Dr. Richard K. McDavid, Tony Milam, David Forbes, Gordon Humphrey, Donnie Mays, Frank VonCannon, Shube Estep, Joe Lilly, Brad and Linda Johnson, Ronald and Carol Ann Jacobs, and neighbors of Central Community. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday in the funeral home. Friends may also call at the residence of a son and daughter-in-law, Fred and Kathy Milam, 162 Taylortown Rd., Johnson City. Watauga Masonic Lodge #622 will conduct a memorial service following the funeral service Thursday night. Family and friends will assemble at the funeral home at 9:30 a.m. Friday to go to the cemetery. Condolences may be e-mailed to the Milam family at mfc@chartertn.net. Memorial Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

August 20, 2003

Rev. Calvin Edwards

   Rev. Calvin Edwards, 83, 152 Stepp Lane, Johnson City, died Monday, August 18, 2003, at Sycamore Shoals Hospital in Elizabethton.
   Rev. Edwards was a native of Carter County but had lived in this area most of his life. He was a son of the late Ira Lee Edwards and Canza Gouge Edwards and was also preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy G. Edwards in 1991, and by two brothers and one sister.
   Rev. Edwards was a member of New Salem Baptist Church, Limestone. He was a minister in this area for many years, having pastored Beulah Baptist Church in Sullivan County, Gravel Hill Baptist Church in Gray, Powder Branch Baptist Church in Carter County, Harmony Baptist Church in Elizabethton, Beck Mountain Baptist Church in Valley Forge, Roan Hill Baptist Church in Johnson City and Westerly Heights Baptist Church in Johnson City. He also worked for J.E. Green Construction for 38 years.
   Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Garry and Sarah Edwards, Johnson City; two daughters and sons-in-law, Donna Kay Edwards Tanner and Raymond Tanner and Anita Lynn Holdren and Rickey Holdren, all of Johnson City; a sister, Rebecca Ann Siler, Greeneville, N.C.; and six grandchildren, Lenny Tanner, Tracey Harris, Sherry Ingram, Brett Edwards, Christy Oliver and Jessee Taylor. Eight great-grandchildren also survive.
   Funeral services for Rev. Edwards will be conducted at 8 p.m. Wednesday, August 20, from the Morris-Baker South Chapel with Rev. John Perkins and Rev. Earl Campbell officiating. Interment services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday, August 21, at Monte Vista Burial Park, where family and friends will meet for services. Grandsons and nephews will serve as pallbearers. Online condolences may be sent to the family via www.morrisbaker.com. Arrangements by Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 Oakland Avenue, Johnson City, (423) 282-1521.

Charles F. Lethcoe

   Charles F. Lethcoe, age 58, 506 Cottage Ave., Elizabethton, died Tuesday, August 19, 2003 at Sycamore Shoals Hospital following an extended illness.
   A native of Carter County, he was the son of the late Claude and Lois Norris Lethcoe.
   He was a painter.
   He was preceded in death by a brother, James Lethcoe.
   Survivors include one brother, Robert Lethcoe, Elizabethton, and a special friend, Brenda Hathaway, Elizabethton. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
   A memorial service for family and friends of Charles F. Lethcoe will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, August 21, 2003 at Church of God Of Prophecy with Pastor Marvin Slagle officiating. Music will be under the direction of Kenny and Kathy Lethcoe. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, 423-542-2232, is in charge of arrangements.

Robert C. Meredith

   Robert C. Meredith, age 91, 709 West "H" Street, Elizabethton, died Tuesday, August 19, 2003 at James H. Quillen Veterans Medical Center Nursing Home following a brief illness.
   A native of Carter County, he was the son of the late William Robert and Minnie C. Garrison Meredith. He was a member of East Side Free Will Baptist Church.
   He was a retired supervisor from Bemberg.
   He was a U.S. Army Veteran and served during World War II; during his enlistment, he received two bronze stars and one silver star.
   He was preceded in death by his wife, Veda Treadway Meredith, four brothers and five sisters.
   Survivors include one sister, Ruby Donnelly, of Orlando, Fla.. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
   The funeral service for Robert C. Meredith will be conducted at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, August 21, 2003 at Tetrick Funeral Home Chapel of Peace with Rev. Howard Messer officiating. Music will be under the direction of Jennifer Martin. The graveside service and interment will be conducted at 9 a.m. Friday, August 22, 2003 at Happy Valley Memorial Park. Active pallbearers will be deacons of the church. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the church. Those who plan to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the funeral home at 8:15 a.m. Friday to go in procession to the cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home chapel. Those who prefer memorials in lieu of flowers may make donations in memory of Mr. Meredith to Eastside Free Will Baptist Church, 704 Siam Road, Elizabethton, TN 37643. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, 423-542-2232, is in charge of arrangements.

Charles T. Milam

   Charles T. Milam, 92, 184 Taylortown Road, Johnson City, died Tuesday, August 19, 2003 in the Johnson City Medical Center.
   Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later.
   Memorial Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

August 19, 2003

Edna Grace

Edna Grace, 83, 230 Price Road, Elizabethton, died Sunday, August 17, 2003, at Sycamore Shoals Hospital following an extended illness.
Mrs. Grace was a native of Carter County and the daughter of the late Clyde E. and Nannie Bowers Murray. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Grace.
Mrs. Grace was of the Christian Faith. She was a retired seamstress.
Survivors include a brother, James P. Murray, Elizabethton.
The graveside service for Mrs. Grace will be conducted at 3 p.m. Tuesday, August 19, at Happy Valley Memorial Park with Pastor Melvin Ferrell officiating. Those who plan to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the cemetery at 2:55 p.m. Tuesday. Friends may call at the residence of her brother, James P. Murray, 244 Price Road, Elizabethton, any time. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, is in charge of arrangements.

Ernest E. Parlier

NEWLAND, N.C. -- Ernest Edward Parlier, 76, of Old Beech Mountain, Elk Park, died Monday, August 18, 2003, at Roan Highlands Nursing Center after a long illness.
Mr. Parlier was born February 5, 1927 in Avery County. He was the son of the late Cloy and Mary Harmon Parlier and was also preceded in death by a brother, Reuben Parlier, and a sister, Sally Parlier.
Mr. Parlier was a Deacon at Fall Creek Baptist Church and was a retired carpenter.
Survivors include his wife, Laura Langendorfer Parlier, of the home; a son and daughter-in-law, Vernon and Susan Parlier, Lawrenceville, Ga.; two daughters and sons-in-law, Judy and Dan Loudermelt, Mill Springs, and Nancy and Bob Johnson, Newland; two brothers, Clint Parlier, Newfane, N.Y., and Troy Parlier, Olcott, N.Y.; and two sisters, Martha Belle Greer, Elizabethton, Tenn., and Carrie Laws, Boone. Ten granddaughters also survive.
Funeral services for Mr. Parlier will be conducted at 11 am. Thursday, August 21, at Fall Creek Baptist Church with the Rev. Reuben Parlier Jr. and the Rev. Jacob Willis officiating. Interment will follow in the Fall Creek Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday. Memorials may be made to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation or to Fall Creek Baptist Church. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.reinssturdivantfuneralhome.com. Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland, N.C., (828) 733-2121, is serving the Parlier Family.

August 18, 2003

Marie E. Carlton

   Marie Essie Carlton, 91, formerly of 412 W. F Street, Elizabethton, died Saturday, August 16, 2003 in Pine Ridge Health Care Center in Elizabethton.
   She was a native of Washington County but had lived in Carter County since 1945. She was a daughter of the late Walter and Flora Carriger Allison.
   Mrs. Carlton had been married to William Bill Carlton for 61 years.
   She was preceded in death by two brothers, Bobby and Bill Allison and by two sisters, Juanita Dennis and Ernestine Allison.
   She was a member of Tacoma Church of God and was attending First Baptist Church in Elizabethton.
   Survivors, in addition to her husband, include one son, William Ted Carlton and his wife, Janie of Scottsboro, AL; one brother, George Allison of Johnson City; one sister, Grace Hoffman of Hagerstown, MD; one step grandson, John Procter, of Scottsboro, and several nieces and nephews.
   Graveside services for Marie Essie Carlton will be conducted at 1 p.m. Tuesday, August 19, 2003 from Monte Vista Burial Park. Rev. Brent Seals will officiate. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the graveside service. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.morrisbaker.com. Arrangements by Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services. (423-282-1521).
  

Janice L. Hopson

   Janice Lee Hopson, 51, of Elk Park, North Carolina, died Sunday, August 17, 2003 at her residence.
   A native and life-long resident of Avery County, she was a daughter of the late Jeff and Dorothy Loveless Hopson.
   She was a waitress at the Country House in Elk Park.
   She is survived by her daughters, Faustin Hopson and Fallon Hopson, both of Elk Park, NC; one sister, Toni Whittington, of Elk Park, NC, and one brother, Jerry Hopson, of Roan Mountain.
   Graveside services for Janice L. Hopson will be conducted at 2 p.m. Tuesday, August 19, 2003 from the Cook Cemetery in Elk Park, with the Rev. Brent Price officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday evening, August 18, 2003 at the funeral home. Memorials should be made to Hospice of Avery County, Newland, NC 28657. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.reinssturdivantfuneralhome.com. Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home, of Newland, NC is serving the Hopson family. (828) 733-2121.

August 17, 2003

Terri Hubbard

   Theresa Daniels Hubbard, age 54, of Elizabethton, Tenn., went home to sing praise to her Lord on Friday, August 15, surrounded by family and friends.
   "Terri" was a daughter of John and Louise Daniels, of Johnson City, Tenn. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Hubert and Bessie Cross, and her paternal grandparents, Charles and Genevieve Daniels.
   She was a graduate of the Boones Creek High School class of 1967 and since that time has been a licensed dental assistant, office manager, and faithful friend of Dr. Robert G. Rowe and his wife Peggy, of Johnson City. She learned of the wonderful love of Jesus from her mother, her grandmother and from the nurture of Pine Grove Park United Methodist Church. In her adult life, she was an active member of Memorial Presbyterian Church, Elizabethton, where she acted in love as a true servant of God. She was a shining example of Christian strength and faith to all who knew her. She was a breast cancer survivor of seven years who sought to ease the burdens of others who were experiencing what she had gone through, always putting the concerns of others ahead of her own, even to the very end. She was a mother to everyone she met, and she will be missed by many.
   She is survived by her beloved husband of 25 years, Steve Hubbard, Elizabethton; a precious daughter, Jennifer Hubbard, Knoxville, Tenn.; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Sherry and Larry Smith, Chapin, S.C., and Norma and Steve Watson, Johnson City; a sister, Deborah Daniels, Alexandria, Va.; her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Virginia and Harold Hubbard, Elizabethton; a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Mike and Rhonda Hubbard, Elizabethton; three nephews, Tommy Hancock, Chapin, S.C., Blake Hampton, Arlington, Va., and Jake Hubbard, Elizabethton; three nieces, Leslie Hancock, Chapin, S.C., Cecie Hampton, Arlington, Va., and Katie Hubbard, Elizabethton; and two great-nieces.
   A celebration of Terri's life and her graduation to glory will be held on Sunday, August 17 at Memorial Presbyterian Church, 100 East F Street, Elizabethton, with Dr. D. Steven Meyerhoff and Mr. Ed Wheeler officiating. Music will be under the direction of Memorial Presbyterian Church Choir. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. at the church with the funeral service following immediately. The graveside service will be conducted Monday August 18 at 10 a.m. at Happy Valley Memorial Park, Elizabethton. Those who plan to attend the graveside service are requested to meet at Memorial Presbyterian Church at 9:15 a.m. to go in procession to the cemetery.
   Active pallbearers are her deacons from her church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Memorial Presbyterian Church, 100 East F Street Elizabethton, TN 37643. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, 423-542-2232, is in charge of the arrangements.
   May His name be praised!
  

Gladys H. Merryman

   Mrs. Gladys Helen "Happy" Merryman, 89, Life Care Center, Elizabethton, formerly of Village East Apts., Elizabethton, died at the Center on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2003.
   A native of Carter County, Mrs. Merryman was a daughter of the late John and Annison Marie Nave Hardin. She was preceded in death by her husband, David J. Merryman, in 1973, and by eight brothers and sisters.
   Mrs. Merryman was a graduate of Elizabethton High School. She was a homemaker and a member of First Christian Church.
   Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Donnie R. and Goldie Lee Merryman, Johnson City (Don is minister of Buffalo Christian Church, Bluff City); two sisters and brothers-in-law, Marie and Charles Payne, Strongville, Ohio, and Charlotte and Lloyd Schofield, Greenville, S.C.; a grandson and his wife, Jeffrey R. and Angela Merryman, Oak Ridge, Tenn.; a great-grandson, Kolby Dallas Merryman; two brothers-in-law, Lewis Merryman and Roy Merryman; and three sisters-in-law, Frances Ward, Sue Little and Jessie Scott; and several nieces and nephews.
   Funeral services will be conducted at 8 p.m. Tuesday in Memorial Funeral Chapel, with Mr. John H. Smith and Mr. Brent Nidiffer, ministers, officiating. Graveside service and interment will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2003, in Happy Valley Memorial Park. Active pallbearers, who are requested to assemble at the funeral home at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, will be Charles Payne, Lloyd Schofield, Daniel Merryman, James Wise, George Williams, Jr., and Dick Oatman. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday in the funeral home. Friends may also call at the residence of the son and daughter-in-law, Don and Goldie Merryman, 612 Cranberry Street, Johnson City. Family and friends will assemble at the funeral home at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday to go to the cemetery. Condolences may be e-mailed to mfc@chartertn.net.
   Memorial Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.

August 15, 2003

John E. English

   John E. English, 129 Laurel Street, Roan Mountain, died Thursday, August 14, 2003, at Johnson City Medical Center.
   Mr. English was a native of Avery County, N.C., and a son of the late James and Dula Hughes English. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Herman English.
   Mr. English had lived in Carter County for the past 57 years. He was a retired employee of the J.E. Green Company, having worked there for 25 years, and was an employee of Roan Mountain State Park, having worked there for 20 years. He was of the Baptist faith.
   Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Sally Simerly English; a daughter and son-in-law, Madge and L.D. Jones, Roan Mountain; two sisters, Verna Hughes, Spruce Pine, N.C., and Ruby Burleson, Bakersville, N.C.; a grandson, John Milton Jones; a granddaughter, Carrie Mathes; a great-great-granddaughter, Glenda Nicole Bennett; twin great-grandsons, Warren and Jessie Mathes; and three special nephews, Charles English, Troy English Jr. and Kenneth "Buckeye" Sluder.
   Funeral services for Mr. English will be conducted at 8 p.m. Friday, August 15, at Memorial Funeral Chapel with Pastor Jerry Honeycutt officiating. Music will be provided by the Victory Singers. Graveside services and interment will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, August 16, in the Johnson-Roan View Cemetery. Active pallbearers, who are requested to assemble at the cemetery at 9:50 a.m. Saturday, will be L.D. Jones, Johnny Mathes, Robert Bailey, Charles Bailey, Kenneth Sluder, Ronnie Whitehead, Rex Whitehead and Jeff Whitehead. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Friends may also call at the residence of his granddaughter, Carrie Mathes, 350 Bluegrass Road, Roan Mountain. Family and friends will assemble at the cemetery at 9:50 a.m. Saturday. Condolences may be e-mailed to mfc@chartertn.net. Memorial Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Harold A. Hicks

   Harold A. Hicks, Gap Creek Road, Elizabethton, went to be with the Lord, Thursday, August 14, 2003, at Asbury Center, Johnson City.
   Mr. Hicks was a native of Carter County and a son of the late John H. and Millie Hardin Hicks. He was also preceded in death by his first wife, Hazel Campbell Hicks, and three brothers, John Hicks, S.A. Hicks and Charles L. Hicks.
   Mr. Hicks was a retired employee of North American Rayon Corporation and a U.S. Army veteran of World War II, serving 38 months in the South Pacific. He was a member of East River Park Christian Church and the American Legion Post #49.
   Survivors include his wife, Alma Clark Hicks; a son and daughter-in-law, Patrick and Connie Hicks, Elizabethton; a daughter and son-in-law, Rebecca and Ronald Fair, Elizabethton; two stepsons and their wives, Joel and Rita Clark, Elizabethton, and Robert and Carol Clark, Mountain City; a sister, Geraldine Pierce, Elizabethton; a brother, Carl Hicks, Elizabethton; four grandchildren, Patrica Cornett, Lori Hubbard, Andrew Hicks and Laura Hicks; and three great-grandchildren, Steve Cornett, Abigal Cornett and Cole Hubbard. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
   Funeral services for Mr. Hicks will be conducted at 3 p.m. Saturday, August 16, at Memorial Funeral Chapel with Mr. Joel Stauffer, Mr. John H. Smith and Mr. Michael Koruschak officiating. Interment will follow at Happy Valley Memorial Park. Active pallbearers will be Tracy Clemons, John Rominger, Kenneth Hartley, Cecil Carr, Roger Clemons and Charles Eller. The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Condolences may be e-mailed to mfc@chartertn.net. Memorial Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Richard Presnell

   Richard Presnell, 53, 115 Roark Park Lane, Lot 5, Hampton, died unexpectedly Wednesday, August 13, 2003, at his residence.
   Mr. Presnell was a native of Washington County and the son of the late John and Bertha Harrison Presnell. He was also preceded in death by a son, Richard Allen Presnell, and a brother, Alden Presnell.
   Mr. Presnell was self-employed and was a member of Piney Grove Free Will Baptist Church.
   Survivors include two daughters and sons-in-law, Patsy and Eddie Childress, Elizabethton, and Tina and Silas Gibson, Mooresburg; a son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Rebecca Presnell, Jonesborough; five sisters, Margaret Akers and Elwanda Carver, both of Johnson City, Mary Gregg, Jonesborough, Hazel Berry, Elizabethton, and Vanessa Luttrell, Gray; nine brothers, Lloyd Presnell, David Presnell, Steve Presnell and the Rev. Dean Presnell, all of Elizabethton, Harold Presnell and Mack Presnell, both of Hampton, Ancel Presnell, Jonesborough, Gene Presnell, Gray, and Michael Presnell, Johnson City; and seven grandchildren, Chelsea and Nathaniel Childress, both of Elizabethton, Sierra, Dustin and Aaron Gibson, all of Mooresburg, and John and Luke Presnell, both of Jonesborough. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
   Funeral services for Mr. Presnell will be conducted at 8 p.m. Friday, August 15, in the Sunset Chapel of Hathaway-Percy Funeral Home with the Rev. Dean Presnell officiating. Music will be under the direction of Sierra Gibson, Mike Presnell and Gene Presnell. Graveside services and interment will be conducted at 12 noon Saturday, August 16, in the Keplinger Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be nephews. Honorary pallbearers will be brothers. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6 to 8 P.M. Friday. Friends may also call at the residence of a daughter, Patsy Childress, 122 White Road, Elizabethton, at any time. Everyone will meet at the funeral home at 10:45 a.m. Saturday to go in procession to the cemetery. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.hathawaypercy.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Hathaway-Percy Funeral Home, (423) 543-5544.

Mary H. Reed

   Mrs. Mary Hodge Reed, 90, 2014 Sherwood Drive, Johnson City, formerly of Greendale Road, Pinecrest, died Wednesday, August 13, 2003, at Appalachian Christian Village.
   Mrs. Reed was a native of Carter County and a daughter of the late James Cisero and Elizabeth VanDyke Hodge. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Echol M. "Red" Reed Sr., a son, Shirley Joe Reed, and by a brother and two sisters.
   Mrs. Reed was a member of Pinecrest Christian Church.
   Survivors include a daughter, Maxine Reed Davenport, Johnson City; three sons and daughters-in-law, Echol M. Jr. and Susan Reed, Fearrington Village, N.C., James G. and Betty Reed and Mark A. and Paula Reed, all of Johnson City; and seven grandchildren, Jason Reed and his wife Kate Underhill, Matthew Reed and partner Christophe Daniel, Tara Davenport Cooper and her husband David Wayne Cooper, Justin Reed, Jennifer Reed, Laura Reed and James E. Reed.
   Graveside services and interment for Mrs. Reed will be conducted at 11 a.m. Friday, August 15, at Happy Valley Memorial Park with Mr. Frederick Meredith and Mr. David Lovelace officiating. Pallbearers will be selected from family and friends. To those who prefer, memorials may be made in memory of Mrs. Reed to the donor's favorite charity. Family and friends will assemble at the cemetery at 10:55 a.m. Friday. Condolences may be e-mailed to mfc@chartertn.net. Memorial Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

George E. Shell

George E. Shell, 88, formerly of 615 West E. Street, Elizabethton, died Thursday, August 14, 2003, at Johnson City Medical Center following a brief illness.
   Mr. Shell was a native of Carter County and a son of the late William L. and Anna Bell Shell. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Edith Herman Shell, November 10, 1999.
   Mr. Shell was a member of Bible Baptist Church. He was a retired employee of North American Rayon Corporation and a former employee of the Mother Parts.
   Survivors include a daughter, Carole A. Brookshire, Elizabethton, and a son and daughter-in-law, Norris and Sharon Shell, Elizabethton. Five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews also survive.
   The funeral service for Mr. Shell will be conducted at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, August 16, in the Chapel of Peace of Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, with the Rev. Clarence Phillips and Mr. Gilbert Hardin officiating. The graveside service and interment will be conducted at 2 p.m. Sunday, August 17, at Happy Valley Memorial Park. Those who plan to attend the graveside service are requested to meet at the funeral home at 1:15 p.m. Sunday to go in procession to the cemetery. Active pallbearers will be selected from family and friends. The family will receive friends from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday in the Chapel of Peace of Tetrick Funeral Home. Friends may also call at the residence of his daughter, Carole Brookshire, 712 West D. Street, Elizabethton, at any time. Those who prefer memorials in lieu of flowers may make donations to the Carter County Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 682, Elizabethton, TN 37644. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, (543) 542-2232, is in charge of arrangements.

Phyllis V. Simerly

   Phyllis Veronica Wykpisz Simerly, 65, 201 Hopson Road, Johnson City, was born March 13, 1938 in Wilmington, Del., to Charles J. and Eleanor J. Wykpisz. Phyllis passed away Thursday, August 14, 2003 after a courageous battle with cancer at her home. She attended St. Hedwigs Roman Catholic School and graduated from Wilmington High School, Wilmington, Del. Mom was baptized, received first communion and confirmation in Catholicism. Recently she re-received Jesus Christ with a full baptism and joined the Church of Christ in Elizabethton, Tennessee. She had been a resident of Elizabethton for the past 45 years.
   Phyllis was a delight, from the day she was born. As a child she could always bring laughter into the house and joy to everyone. Till the very day that our Lord called her home, she put smiles on the faces of everyone near her. Her sons and six granddaughters were her life. Our mother was a wonderful, funny, caring and very giving person. Anyone who knew her would always have a funny story about her or how she helped them out in their time of need.
   Phyllis had worked for the past 25 years for the Tennessee Department of Employment Security, most recently in the Erwin, Tennessee office. She loved her work and more importantly cherished the many friends she met and made in her work. As a teenager she would tell the stories of staying out of school and catching the bus with girlfriends to Philadelphia to dance on American Bandstand. Years later she met her future husband, Norman G. Simerly, at Dover Air Force Base at the base dance and they immediately fell in love. She and Norman dated and were married in Wilmington, Del. After Norman completed his military service they moved back to his home of East Tennessee and started a family. She was a member of the Women's Auxiliary of Captain Lynn H. Folsom VFW Post #2166 and Erwin Moose Lodge.
   Phyllis was diagnosed December 13, 2002 with an aggressive type of esophageal cancer. She bravely fought the battle with chemotherapy, radiation and lots of love from family, friends and neighbors. Several "special angels" were with Mom during her illness and acted as caretakers. Her sisters, Bernadine Filliben from Abbottstown, Pa., spent many weeks as well as her sister Carol Miller from Wilmington, Del. However, her (ex-husband) Norman G. Simerly was her brightest angel of all. He was with her every day since the cancer was discovered in the hospital, at home and trips to the doctors. Our father cared for and did things that most husband, brothers or sons could not have done! The sons and family will be forever thankful, grateful and sincerely appreciative of our father and Best Friend. We would like to also thank the nursing staff of Johnson City Medical Center Hospital 5th Floor-Cancer Ward, Dr. Kenneth Oliver, her primary care physician, and Dr. Stephen Smith, her cancer doctor, for their love, compassion, support and encouragement through this chapter in Mom's life. Dr. Oliver, thank you for the time you gave Mom and the family to listen, encourage and provide direction for our future! Also thank you to Adventa Hospice for the love, special care and compassion shown to our family. She was preceded in death by her father, Charles J. Wykpisz, and brother, George Wykpisz.
   In addition to her mother, Eleanor J. Wykpisz, Wilmington, Del., and her ex-husband, Norman G. Simerly, Johnson City, she is survived by her son, Michael and wife, Denise Simerly of Concord, N.C., and daughter, Hannah Simerly of Watauga; son, Mark and wife, Angela Simerly and daughters, Monica and Kylie, all of Elizabethton; son, Matthew with daughters Kaitlyn, Megan and Morgan Simerly of Elizabethton. She is also survived by three brothers and three sisters, Staus Wykpisz, Mike Wykpisz, Richard Wykpisz, Carol Miller, all of Wilmington, Del., Bernadine Filliben, Abbottstown, Pa., Rose Youstic, Chester, Va.; one uncle, Ted Wykpisz, Middletown, Del.; one aunt, Jean Sitko, Wilmington, Del. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
   The funeral service will be conducted at 8 p.m. Friday, August 15, in the Riverside Chapel of Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, with Mr. Eddie Craft, minister, and Father Bill Gahagan officiating. The graveside service and interment will be conducted Saturday, August 16, at 1 p.m. at Happy Valley Memorial Park. Active pallbearers will be her three sons, Mike Simerly, Mark Simerly and Matthew Simerly, Norman Simerly, Richard Wykpisz and Franny Miller. Honorary pallbearers will be Scott Odom, Ernest King and James Hughes. Those who plan to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the funeral home chapel at 12:15 p.m. Saturday to go in procession to the cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, August 16, at Tetrick Funeral Home, Riverside Chapel. Friends may also call at the residence, 201 Hopson Road, Johnson City, any time. Those who prefer in lieu of flowers may make donations in memory of Phyllis Simerly to the American Cancer Society, 209 S. Riverside Drive, Elizabethton, TN 37643. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our Web site at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, is in charge of arrangements.

Brian Throssell

   CULPEPER, Va. -- Brian Throssell, 70, of Fredericksburg, formerly of Culpeper, died Wednesday, August 13, 2003, at Mary Washington Hospital.
   Born September 5, 1932 in Hull, England, to the late James and Violet Allison Throssell, Brian moved to the USA in 1950. After serving at the British Embassy, he worked most of his life as a land surveyor. He was also past president of the Midday Lions Club, attended Mitchell's Presbyterian Church and was active there in the men's club.
   Mr. Throssell served in the Royal Air Force and assisted in the development with national surveying standards, was a local representative for the draft board, and served as a court-appointed guardian to many.
   Survivors include his wife, Elizabeth Throssell, Fredericksburg, formerly of Culpeper; three daughters and sons-in-law, Patricia and Roger Clapp, Richmond, Karen and David Rawson and Carole and Steven duBois, all of Fredericksburg. Seven grandchildren also survive.
   Funeral services for Mr. Throssell will be conducted at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 16, at Clore-English Funeral Home, Culpeper, Va., with a time of visitation one hour prior to the service. There will be a visitation at 10 a.m. Monday, August 18, at Tetrick Funeral Home in Elizabethton, Tenn., with interment to follow. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the Culpeper Humane Society, P.O. Box 1046, Culpeper, VA 22701. Arrangements are being entrusted to Clore-English Funeral Home, Culpeper, Va., (540) 825-2361.