Class Notes

Odis Clinton Abbott, Sr. age 94 of Maryville passed away Monday, July 14, 2014 at Blount Memorial Hospital. He was a member of Maryville First Baptist Church, an avid old harp singer, and the oldest living person that was born in Cades Cove. Odis retired from ALCOA as an electrician and enjoyed being a volunteer for the Blount County Food Pantry. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis Abbott. Survivors include his sons and daughters-in-law, Clint and Darlene Abbott, and Larry and Katherine Abbott; daughter, Cathy Abbott Coe; six grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; three sisters.

Richard (Dick) Lewis Abbott, born on March 23, 1929 passed on to heaven on November 2, 2020 with his daughters by his side. Dick Abbott grew up in Blount County, attending Lanier Elementary where his sister Dorothy was his teacher. He graduated from Maryville High School in 1947, and immediately enlisted and served in the U.S Air Force as a mechanic on the F-86 Sabre jets. After discharge from the Air Force, he enrolled in Maryville College where he played basketball for four years, captained the 1954 Fighting Scots, became enamored by a girl from Trenton, New Jersey and majored in Education. At 10 am on May 19,1954, he graduated from Maryville College and on that same day at 2 pm, he married that New Jersey girl, Margaret Mary Evans. Upon graduation from Maryville College, Dick began teaching and coaching at Greenback High School, then landed at Alcoa City Schools in 1957 where he began a lifetime commitment to the community of Alcoa, Tennessee. During this time, he also pursued and received a Masters degree from the University of Tennessee. Highlights of Dick’s professional career were assistant coaching the Alcoa Tornadoes basketball team to two state championships in 1959 and 1967, implementing the golf program at Alcoa High School, becoming principal of Alcoa Elementary School from 1969-1986, televising sports programs for the Alcoa City Schools hosting “Tornado Talk”, emceeing the Maryville Alcoa Jaycees Parade, and initiating and hosting “Profiles of Blount County”, where he highlighted the accomplishments of many hometown heroes who have contributed to the development and progress of Blount County. Dick received several accolades including being inducted to the Maryville College Wall of Fame, also the Maryville College Walk of Fame, Blount County Sports Hall of Fame, being honored with naming the new Alcoa High School Gymnasium the “Dick Abbott Gymnasium,” and receiving the Lifetime Service Award from the Alcoa City Schools Foundation. Although Dick had an accomplished professional career, his most cherished treasure was relationships. He always spoke of the experiences he had with kids, student athletes, teachers, and parents with pure joy. His engagement with people truly was the thing that made him most happy. He was also an avid golfer where he developed lifelong friendships with some of his favorite people on the golf course beginning at Wallace Hills. His most important relationship on earth started at home with his wife of 66 years, Peggy, who he admittedly and often, called the “love of his life.” Dick and Peggy raised four daughters, had nine granddaughters, and three great grandsons. Some of his favorite ways to spend time with his family was in the mountains, especially cooking breakfast at Metcalf Bottoms, going to his grandchildren and great grandchildren’s ballgames, picking the guitar and singing music, and anything else that involved being together along with giving hugs. Dick was a member of Alcoa First United Methodist Church from the 1950’s until his death, a member of the Pathfinders Sunday School Class where he was committed to his faith and his fellow Christians to live a Christ-like life that honored God. Dick is survived by his wife, Margaret (Peggy) Evans Abbott, and daughters and sons-in-law, Nancy and Mike Welch of Maryville, Patsy and Dave Spanjers of Peachtree City, Georgia, Leyanne and Kenny Harper of Maryville, Susan and Russ Ruelle of Kohler, Wisconsin; his adored granddaughters, Lauren Xixis (Andrew), Molley Dove, Katie Ruelle, Marianna Harper, Evan Harper, Jennifer Boss, and Julia Ruelle; three treasured great grandsons, Alex, Luke and Drew. He is also survived by his brother, Paul Abbott, and his sister, Martha Jane Carter and many nieces and nephews. Dick was preceded in death by his parents, William Peter and Lucy Jane Davis Abbott, two of his precious granddaughters Emily Anne Ruelle and Abbie Jane Harper, his sister Dorothy Boswell, and brothers, Kenneth Kyle Abbott and James Howard Abbott. Friends may call at your convenience Friday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm on Friday November 6, 2020 at McAmmon-Ammons-Click Funeral Home. A private family service will be held Saturday with a celebration of life to be held at Springbrook Park Pavilion on Sunday November 8 at 3 pm. Please bring lawn chairs or blankets where there will be plenty of space to socially distance. To honor Dick’s legacy, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his memory to the Alcoa First United Methodist Church Childrens’ Ministry or the Abbie Jane Harper Memorial Scholarship Fund at the East Tennessee Foundation.

Lorraine Yvonne Swift Abbott (age 94) departed this earthly life and went to her eternal reward on June 11, 2021. She left behind her husband William Paul Abbott, her son Richard Neil Abbott, and her brother Virgil Neil Swift – along with numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews, cousins, in-law relatives, and friends – all of whom she loved very dearly. She also left behind former co-workers in the business she founded – Katie Ingersoll, Mary Bryant, and Amy Reed – as well as long-time neighbors Sue and Carolyn Wilson. She was preceded in death by her parents Virgil Swift and Edith Isabelle Jackson Swift and by her brothers, Aubrey Earl Swift and his twin Kenneth Merle Swift. Lorraine was born on November 8, 1926, in the town of Owasso, Oklahoma. In the fall of 1944 she boarded a train and travelled to Maryville College in East Tennessee, where in 1946 she met her husband Paul, a World War II Navy veteran who had enrolled in Maryville College on the G.I. Bill. Lorraine graduated from Maryville College and married Paul in May of 1948, and they remained married for the next 73 years. Beginning in 1948, Lorraine embarked on a long career as a technical writer and editor at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, focusing most of her efforts on publications related to reactor shielding. In 1986, she retired from ORNL and began a second career as the founder and leader of a technical communications company that focused primarily on the oil and gas industry. She retired from that second career in 2016 at the age of 90. Lorraine joined Inskip Methodist Church (now Cedar Lane UMC) with her husband in 1952, and she remained an active part of that congregation until her death. For many years she was also a member of the board of directors of Partners for Children, a nonprofit child development center currently located at Cedar Lane. One of the last things Lorraine said to her family was “take care of the little children.” Accordingly, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, gifts be given in Lorraine’s memory to Partners for Children, Inc., 714 Cedar Lane, Knoxville, TN 37912. A graveside service will be held at Grandview Cemetery in Maryville, TN, at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, June 15. A celebration of life service will be held at Cedar Lane UMC at a later date. Philippians 1: 21 – For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

William Paul Abbott (age 96) finished his earthly life and entered his eternal reward on May 20, 2023. He left behind his son Richard Neil Abbott and his youngest sister Martha Jane Carter – along with numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, cousins, in-law relatives, and friends – all of whom he loved very dearly. Paul also left behind former co-workers and friends from his career within the apparel manufacturing business, along with three colleagues and friends – Katie Ingersoll, Mary Bryant, and Amy Reed – who worked with his late wife Lorraine in a technical communications company that Paul helped Lorraine create. Paul and Lorraine were also survived by long-time neighbors Sue and Carolyn Wilson and by the many friends they made through their membership in Cedar Lane United Methodist Church (formerly Inskip UMC).

Paul was preceded in death by his wife of 73 years, Lorraine Yvonne Swift Abbott, and by his parents, William Peter Abbott and Lucy Jane Davis Abbott, by his oldest sister Dorothy Abbott Boswell, and by three brothers, Kenneth Kyle Abbott, James Howard Abbott, and Richard Lewis Abbott.

Paul was born on June 20, 1926, in Knoxville, Tennessee. He grew up during the great Depression living for periods of time in both Blount and Knox Counties. Shortly after graduating from high school in Blount County, he entered active service in the Navy in May 1944, where he served during the latter part of World War II as a naval radioman stationed in the Philippine Islands.

After Paul’s honorable discharge from the Navy in May 1946, he enrolled in Maryville College on the G.I. Bill. It was there that he met Lorraine. They both said that they fell in love at first sight. They married in May 1948, and remained in a committed and loving relationship until Lorraine’s death in June 2021. Not long after their marriage, Paul transferred to the University of Tennessee, where he graduated with a B.A. in Mathematics in 1956. He also pursued post graduate studies in advanced statistics, quality control, and advanced business statistics.

Prior to graduating from college and for a couple of years after graduation, Paul worked as a statistical analyst for the Aluminum Company of America (ALCOA). A few years after that, he began a long-term career focusing on management, quality control, and continuous improvement within the apparel industry. For the last eight years of his career ending in 1991, he served as the President of Summit Apparel Corporation in Knoxville.

Paul and Lorraine joined Inskip Methodist Church (now Cedar Lane UMC) in 1952, and they both remained part of that congregation until their deaths. For many years Lorraine was also a member of the board of directors of Partners for Children, a nonprofit child development center currently located at Cedar Lane. Paul was a strong supporter of both the church and Partners for Children

Paul Abbott believed in the importance of resilience and continuous improvement in every aspect of life. He looked for ways to help almost everyone he encountered. He had a belief in progress founded on his constant hope that, with effort and with God’s help, each of us could make the world around us a better place.

Romans 5: 3-4, NIV – we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.

Margaret Mary (Evans) Abbott, affectionately known as “Peggy”, was born on March 17, 1932, and passed on to heaven September 15, 2023. Peggy’s life was marked by her compassion for others, generosity, and steadfast commitment to service and her faith.

Peggy Abbott grew up in Trenton, New Jersey, where her mother settled after immigrating through Ellis Island from Scotland. At 18 years old, with the encouragement from her Presbyterian minister, she boarded a bus and made her way to Maryville College. There she met the love of her life, Richard “Dick” Abbott. On the morning of May 19, 1954, they walked down the aisle to obtain their mutual degrees in education, and in the afternoon they walked down the aisle of Wilson Chapel on the college campus to become husband and wife.

Peggy committed her life to education for over 30 years in the East Tennessee area. She began her career as a teacher in Greenback, then moved to Vose School in Alcoa teaching special education. She continued on to Louisville School and landed at Middlesettlements Elementary, where she taught second grade for many years. Her passion for education was based solely on her love for children, extending her influence far beyond the curriculum. She had an extraordinary gift of meeting the individual needs of the children she encountered.

Since the 1950’s Peggy and Dick attended the Alcoa First Methodist Church, generously dedicating time and talents to spreading the message of Christ. She was constantly bringing awareness to causes in need and volunteering her time to them. She helped to support many missions such as Emerald Avenue Youth Foundation, Jubilee Project, Houston home for Children, Wesley House, and Wesley Foundation but always had a particular fondness for the Henderson Settlement community in Kentucky.

In addition to giving her time to Blount County children and her church, Peggy and Dick treasured family. Peggy loved their daughters, granddaughters, and great-grandsons, but she truly shined as a grandmother. For her granddaughters, she is remembered by festive New Year’s Eve parties, trips to the Smoky Mountains, and joyful holiday celebrations where she strived to build a lasting legacy and bond with her loved ones.

Though Peggy’s physical presence has departed, her memory lives on in the lives she touched and the love she shared. Most recently she made dear friends at Shannondale of Maryville who became like family. She was loved deeply by her family and members of her community and will be missed dearly. The family is genuinely appreciative of the staff at Shannondale that assisted her over the last three years.

Peggy was preceded in death by her husband Richard “Dick” Abbott, her parents William John and Elizabeth Anderson Evans, two of her beloved granddaughters, Emily Anne Ruelle and Abbie Jane Harper. She is also preceded in death by all her siblings, Violet (and Bob) Barlow, William (and Melba) Evans, and Dorothy Evans.

Peggy is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Nancy Welch (and Mike-deceased) of Maryville, Patsy and Dave Spanjers of Naples, Florida, Leyanne and Ken Harper of Maryville, Susan and Russ Ruelle of Jackson, Tennessee; her cherished granddaughters, Lauren Xixis and husband Andrew, Molley Welch, Katie Ruelle, Marianna Harper, Evan Harper, Jennifer Boss, and Julia Ruelle, four adored great-grandsons, Alex, Luke, Drew, and Jake. She is also survived by her nephews and nieces Dr. Scott Evans of Yardley, Pennsylvania, Dr. Bill Evans of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Beth Barlow Moody of Nashua, New Hampshire, and Kathy Barlow Cook of Gloucester, Massachusetts.

Age 93, of Vestavia Hills, died June 29, 2014. She was born in Sheffield, Alabama and been a resident of Birmingham, Alabama for 76 years. Mary Lib attended Maryville College in Maryville, TN receiving a degree in Sociology. Mary Lib married her first husband John David sharp, Jr. (died 1988) in 1942 in a double wedding ceremony with her older sister, Eloise and her late husband Gordon Stoltz of Houston, Texas. She worked at Ridout’s Valley Chapel in Homewood as the Hostess for 23 years retiring at age 70 in 1990. Mary Lib married her second husband Dr. Frederick Palmer Adams in 2003, he died in 2012. They resided in both Auburn and Birmingham during that time period where Fred had been a professor at Auburn University. They were avid fans of the Auburn Tigers attending many Auburn games and enjoying the Auburn college Town atmosphere. She was a charter member of Southminster Presbyterian Church in Vestavia Hills and a long-time member of Briarwood Presbyterian Church. She and Fred were also associate members of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Opelika, Alabama. She was most proud of her leadership role in a bible study at South Haven Nursing Home. She was a Sunday School Circle member of Briarwood and the Masters 40 Supper Club. Mary Lib is survived by her older sister, Eloise Stoltz; her three children, son John David Sharp III from Big Canoe, Georgia; son James Clay Sharp (wife Jane) from Vestavia Hills, Alabama and; daughter Patty (husband Harris) from Pensacola, Florida; step-daughter Susan Bruce (son-in-law Charles) from Opelika, Alabama; grandchildren John David Sharp IV (wife Kali); Stephen Sharp (wife Tara); Leigh Reynolds (fiancé Scott Jenkins and boys Max and Brody); Jodie Koch (husband Ryan); Thomas McDowell; Shannon Crews (husband Adam); Chad Bruce (wife Suzanne); along with great children Jack, Davis, Asher, DeDe, Hannah, Hunter, and Emily. Our family would like to extend a special thank you to Mother’s cardiologists, Drs. Annabelle Simon-Lee and Tim Lee, the entire staff of Oasis Hospice and in particular Sequoia Waters, and to the entire staff of Brookdale Place University Park for the professionalism and kindness shown to our Mom on a daily basis – See more at: http://obits.al.com/obituaries/birmingham/obituary.aspx?n=mary-lib-adams&pid=171559787&fhid=5979&eid=sp_ommatch&eid=sp_ommatch#sthash.xZftZbt3.dpuf

Ellington Lloyd Adams It is always difficult saying goodbye to someone we love and cherish. Family and friends must say goodbye to their beloved Ellington Lloyd Adams (Marietta, Georgia), who passed away at the age of 27, on July 27, 2019. Family and friends can send flowers and/or light a candle as a loving gesture for their loved one. Leave a sympathy message to the family in the guestbook on this memorial page of Ellington Lloyd Adams to show support. Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 10th 2019 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Southern Cremations and Funerals Columbarium (1861 Dallas Hwy, Marietta, GA). A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 10th 2019 at 4:00 PM at the same location.

William “Bill” Coombe Addy, 90, of Highland Park, NJ passed peacefully into eternity, joining his recently deceased brother Tom and sister-in-law Gytha, died on February 19, 2022, at the Reformed Church Home in Old Bridge, NJ.

Mr. Addy was a lifelong resident of Highland Park. He was baptized at the First Presbyterian Church of Arlington in Kearny. NJ, though of late he was a regular member at the Reformed Church in Highland Park.  William received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Maryville College in Maryville, TN in 1953. He served our country from 1953 to 1955 in the US Army attaining the rank of Corporal in the 98th CML Company in the United Kingdom and received the Good Conduct Medal.  William was employed as an auditor for Fidelity Union Bank in Newark, NJ.

He is survived by his brother, Richard Addy of Highland Park. and a sister, Mary Addy of Harrisonburg, VA. He is also survived by his nephews: Carl Rupp and Kurt Rupp, a niece, Kristen Deckert and many grandnieces and grandnephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Thomas E. and Mary (nee Coombe) Addy and recently by his brother, Thomas, and sister-in-law, Gytha (nee Rupp) Addy.

Michael Cooper Aikens

Riceville – Michael Cooper Aikens, age 73, of Riceville, TN, passed away in the early morning of Monday, May 23, 2022, at his home after a 2-month battle with glioblastoma brain cancer.

Mike was a charter member of Genesis Baptist Church in Athens, elementary age Sunday School teacher, deacon and choir member. He was a graduate of Harriman High School and Maryville College. He was an accomplished woodworker, HAM radio operator, Assistant Scout Master of Troop 118 in Athens for over 20 years and enjoyed singing with the Athens Old College Harp Singers.

Mike began his work career in Nov 1971 as the Tennessee Wildlife Resource officer for Sequatchie County for six months and then Sumner County for seven years. He was promoted to Asst. Supervisor of Area 33 in March of 1978 and transferred to McMinn County.

In July of 1984, he switched gears and became a salesman of pantyhose knitting machines and equipment in the Hosiery Industry. This job gave him the privilege of getting to travel to Italy, Honduras and all over the US. He ended his career with Storm Copper of Decatur selling copper components.

Mike was preceded in death by parents Cooper Aikens and Velma Simcox, Stepfather, Clifford Simcox, infant sister Mitzi Sue Aikens and half sister Kim Aikens Whited. He is survived by wife, Sarah Whittaker Aikens of 50 years, son Michael Cliff Aikens, brother-in-law and wife, Jerry and Nan Whittaker, half brother, Marty Aikens, nephew Matt Whittaker, niece Anna Whittaker (Nolen) Oberg, and three lively great nephews, Gabe, Harry and Boone Oberg.

Mary Estes Akes, 83, died Monday, Jan. 19, 2009. She was born in Tennessee, the daughter of the late Laurence Bradford Estes Jr. and Lidy Kate King Estes. Ms. Akes was a bookkeeper for Napa Motor Parts before retiring. She is survived by a daughter, Amy Kay Simmons of Savannah; a sister; three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Earl Alton Akes Sr.; a son, Earl Alton Akes Jr.; three brothers, Laurence Bradford Estes Jr., Warner Moore Estes, and Thomas Bradford Estes.

Patricia Marie Baker Aldridge, 81, of Springfield, Pa., formerly of Richmond, Va., passed away peacefully on September 29, 2021.

Patricia was the daughter of the late Courtland and Dorothy Baker. She graduated from Maryville College. She was an editor for John Knox Press. Pat worked and was retired from being a church secretary for her church, Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church.

She was the beloved wife of the late James R. Aldridge; loving mother to Elisabeth and the late Edward; and cherished grandmother to Nolen and Teagan. She is also survived by her brother, John Baker; and her niece, Michele Aldridge.

Dorothy Bass Alexander, 99, of 210 Edgedale Dr., High Point, NC passed away on Friday, December 9, 2016. She was born in Rice, Virginia, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gates Bass. She graduated from Maryville College in Maryville, TN and received her Masters of Education from UNC Greensboro. She worked as a teacher and guidance counselor for High Point City Schools. She was active in First Presbyterian Church of High Point. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Bruce Alexander Sr. and a daughter, Suzanne Alexander Ragan. She is survived by a son T. Bruce Alexander Jr. and two grandchildren, Herbert T. Ragan III, and Beth Ragan Inman, and many beloved nieces and nephews. A memorial service was held at the family plot in Rice, Virginia at Pisgah Baptist Church Cemetery, on Friday December, 16, Rev. Dr. Ken Broman-Fulks of First Presbyterian Church in High Point conducted the service. Sechrest Funeral Service of High Point was honored to serve the Alexander Family. Online condolences may be made at sechrestfunerals.com

Nettie Rose Spraker Allen died Friday, June 12, 2015, in Nashville, TN. Born in Maryville, TN she was the only child of Ralph Ragan Spraker and Nettie Ledbetter Spraker. She graduated from Maryville College in 1944. During her first job as Director of Religious Education at Main Street Methodist Church in Reidsville, NC, she met and, in 1945, married O. Holt Allen. After her children were born, Nettie was a social worker in Rockingham County and later in Charlotte, NC. After a move to Columbia, SC in 1969, Nettie was Executive Director of Planned Parenthood of Richland and Lexington Counties. Eventually she joined Holt at their business, Westside Ice, until retirement. In the 1970’s, Nettie experienced increasing hearing loss which had a great effect on her life. She became involved in advocacy for those with hearing loss on a local, state, and national level. We celebrate Nettie’s efforts when we see or use 711, public TT’s/ TTY’s, and captioning for movies and TV. An active Methodist, Nettie considered her greatest gift to her church to be the church history she researched and wrote with Holt, “Bethel United Methodist Church: A Sesqui-Centennial History, 1835-1985.” Nettie moved to Forest Pines Retirement Home after years of devoted care for Holt who died in 2003. Following a stroke in 2012, Nettie moved near her son Jim, and wife Deb, in Nashville. Surviving are her children, Jane Allen Arens (Dave Hoffman) of Melbourne, FL, Louise Allen Hamer (David Eisenhauer) of Columbia, SC, Col. Robert H. Allen, USAF (Ret) (Debbie) of Ewa Beach, HI, and James R. Allen (Deb), of Nashville, TN; 9 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. The family would like to express gratitude and thanks to all who appreciated, supported, and kept in touch with Nettie throughout her life.

Susan Hoskins Allen, age 74, of Clinton, TN passed away on July 13, 2015. She was an active member of St. Mark United Methodist Church in Clinton and was a long time employee of both Maryville College and the University of Tennessee. She was a graduate of Clinton High School and Maryville College. Susan was a loving, caring mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who cherished life and time with her family, friends, and pets. She was an avid UT and Washington Redskins fan and had a passion for working crossword and jigsaw puzzles and reading. In addition, she was an accomplished musician, playing both the piano and organ at several different churches. Susan was preceded in death by her parents, Gomer D. and Katherine B. Hoskins; husbands, Carl F. Allen, Jr. and Stephen Whitehead; a very special companion, John Sadler; and brother, Gomer D. Hoskins, Jr. Survivors include daughter, Margret M. (Peggy) Gore and husband, Paul; sons, Carl F. (Chuck) Allen, III and Joseph G. Allen; grandson, Daniel J. Gore; great-grandson, Rayden Gore; sister, Martha H. Frye and husband, Wilbur; brother, Clyde B. Hoskins and wife, Jeanette; nephews and nieces, Davis D. Hoskins, Cynthia L. Hoskins, Thomas W. Frye, John D. Frye, Katherine M. Hoskins, Eileena B. Hoskins, and Marielle V. Hoskins. Also dear friends, Martha Hess ’67 and Diane and Bryant Ellis.

Nancy Lee Allen, 99, of Greeneville, passed away Sunday, May 15, 2016, at Life Care Center of Greeneville. She was a retired librarian and was a member of New Providence Church in Maryville, TN. Survivors include a son, John David Allen of Greeneville; three daughters, Joy Sue Allen and Nancy Lee Allen, both of Maryville, and Ruth Allen of Raleigh, NC; grandchildren, Heidi Meadows Chitwood of Huntsville, AL, Amy Meadows of Maryville, David Thut of St. Petersburg, FL, Cami Demery of Raleigh, NC, Robbie Allen of Seattle, WA; great-grandchildren, Ben Chitwood and Grace Chitwood of Huntsville, AL. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Charles H. Allen of Kingsport. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Kiser-Rose Hill Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Dr. R. Lynn Allen, age 86, of Maryville, TN, passed away Saturday, July 08, 2017. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ada & Pearl Allen; brother, Ed Allen & wife Gloria, and brother-in-law, Bob Hollingshead. He is survived by Jo, his wife of 53 years; his son, Mark; his brother, Don (Sadie); sister, Mary Evelyn Hollingshead; brother-in-law, Bob Bralley (Lib); and several nieces and nephews. He was a member of Maryville First Baptist Church. Over the course of his life, he served as a church Minister of Education, Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, and a Member of the Nominating Committee. He received his Bachelor of Divinity and Master of Religious Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, and earned his Ed.D in Educational Psychology and Guidance from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville. An avid, lifelong Vols fan, he cheered on the orange at football, basketball, and baseball games. He was a professor of Psychology at East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, and Tennessee Tech University, Cookeville, and also served UT, Knoxville, as a recruiter of outstanding high school students. He believed that God called him to be a parent, and he cherished every minute he spent being a dad. At every career change, he considered the amount of time he would have with his family, especially as a dad. He greatly admired the late John Wooden, who coached basketball at UCLA; and he shared Wooden’s priorities – God, family, and career in that order. Tender, loving care is eternal. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Maryville First Baptist Church will be appropriate. Family received friends on July 15, 2017, at Smith Trinity Chapel. Celebration of Life will followed. Everyone who wished was invited to wear something orange.

Grace (Gracie) Scruggs Allen died September 30, 2022.

Born in Knoxville, TN December 2, 1930, to parents Grace Wilson Scruggs and James Henry Scruggs and grew up in Clinton, TN.

Preceded in death by husband of nearly sixty years, Charles Edward Allen and sons Thomas E. Allen, and David C. Allen (Lissa). Survived by daughter Jenny Cunningham (Jack), four grandchildren, Grace Ann Lukach (Matt), Molly Snow (Michael) and Jack Edward and Catherine Allen, and great grandson Brooks Walker Lukach, and great granddaughters Josephine Grace Lukach, and Lila Katherine Snow.

Predeceased by sister Elizabeth (Jimmie) Ann Wright (Gene) of Caryville, TN. Survived by nephews Jody Wright (Kim), Clinton, TN, Ted and John Allen (Kim) Louisville, KY. Nieces Julie Minton (Steve) Tazewell, TN. Sister-in-Law, Ruth Orr Allen, Louisville, KY. Great nieces Molly and Lauren Wright. Great nephews Michael Minton and Jack F. Allen.

Gracie graduated from Clinton High School and earned a BS Degree at Maryville College where she was a cheerleader, President of Girls’ Choir, and President of Theta Epsilon. She also earned a Master’s degree at Peabody Vanderbilt. She taught school for twenty two years at several schools including Clinton High School, King College, Peabody Demonstration/University School of Nashville.

Gracie and Charlie moved from Bristol, TN to Nashville in 1963. She was active in Circle Theater and Theater Nashville, singing lead roles in “Bells are Ringing”, “South Pacific”, “Kiss me Kate”, and “Guys and Dolls”. While teaching she was head of the Physical Education Department at University School and also served as president of the Tennessee Association Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. She received their Honor Award and was made a Life Fellow for the Association. She started the “Jump Rope for Heart” project in Tennessee in 1979-80 which continues today and has raised millions of dollars for the Heart Association.

As a volunteer, Gracie served on the Board of Directors at the Green Hills Family YMCA for twenty two years and for three of those years she chaired the Board serving as the first woman to hold that position. She volunteered for every “We Build People” campaign from 1978-2008. She was awarded the Volunteer of the Year at the “Y” two times plus she and Charlie received recognition as Members of the Year for the Middle Tennessee YMCA. She also served on the YMCA Foundation Board for six years. She was awarded the Apple Award for Teachers from Peabody College and she and Charlie received the Sage Award from the Council on Aging. Gracie served on the board of directors of the Arden Place Condominium Association.

Gracie sang in the choirs at First Presbyterian Church and Westminster Presbyterian Church where she was a member and was also a member of Westminster Women. She belonged to Chapter P of PEO Sisterhood.

More than anything, Gracie, fondly known as Beebaw/Nanny, loved her family and children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren and her many friends. She loved tennis, teaching, water aerobics at Arden Place, music, theater, and the beach.

Gracie lived a long, full life with her unique, youthful exuberance that was visible to everyone through her hallmark smile and spirited energy.

Ruth Francis Orr Allen , 90, of Louisville KY formerly of Blount County, TN passed away on December 24, 2023. She was born on Christmas Day 1932 her glowing presence left the world on Christmas Eve, 2023.

She graduated from Maryville College in 1955, there she met her husband Tom then married on August 26, 1955.

Ruth & Tom moved to Louisville in 1958 to build their family, with Ted in 1959, then twins (Billy & John) in 1962. They were faithful Presbyterians during this time as members of Harvey Browne church. Beyond motherhood she kept on growing in getting a Master’s degree in library science and worked as a Librarian for many years, then as a researcher with her own “GatherFacts Group” researching specific info for client requests. All the while supporting Tom’s Cardinal Brass business by keeping the books. She wanted to keep active and moving as she got older and was introduced to Yoga in the early 70’s and got hooked on it. She became an instructor and was a pioneer in Louisville opening her own studio “Orbis”. She enjoyed roller skating, being the youngest sister, reading, baking, travelling, teaching and writing short stories. She was passionate as a wife, mother with a strong thread of conviction toward sharing the world’s great knowledge.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 52 years Tom and son Billy. She is survived by her sons Ted and John (Kim) and grandson Jack.

age 83, passed away on January 8, 2014. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Charles E. Allen, Sr. & Martha Belle Byrd Allen, & his brother, Thomas Byrd Allen. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 60 years, Grace Scruggs Allen; children, Thomas E. Allen, Jenny (Jack) Cunningham, and David (Lissa) Allen. Grandchildren include Grace Ann (Matthew) Lukach, Molly Cunningham, Jack & Cate Allen, and great-grandson, Brooks Lukach, along with his sister-in-law, Ruth Orr Allen and several nieces, nephews & cousins. Born in Louisville, KY on December 14, 1930 and known as “Charlie,” he graduated from Male High School. In 1952, Charlie received his BS degree from Maryville College, where he was captain of the football team & co-captain of the basketball team. In 1978 he was named to the Maryville College Athletic Hall of Fame and 1997 he received their Distinguished Alumni Award. While at Maryville, he met his wife, Gracie. They married in 1954. Charlie earned a Bachelor of Divinity degree from the Louisville Presbyterian Seminary in 1955. He was chaplain of Culver Military Academy in 1955-56. From 1957-61, he was a minister, counselor and high school coach in Bristol, TN. He moved to Nashville in 1963, where he lived for over 50 years. From 1963-65 he was Director of Youth Activities at First Presbyterian Church. From 1966-72 Charlie was Director of Youth Ministries at Martha O’Bryan Center. In 1967 he received a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from George Peabody College at Vanderbilt University and in 1996 received the Peabody College at Vanderbilt University “Apple Award” for outstanding service to children. In 1999 he received their Distinguished Alumni Award, as well. In 1973 he created the first Childcare Center for the University of Tennessee at Nashville. In 1978 Charlie started the “DreamHouse” project, the building of small indoor playhouses for preschool & kindergarten children. With free instructions and easily built, and with all resources and labor having been donated, there are currently over 10,000 DreamHouses in the US and various parts of the world. For every DreamHouse that was built, Charlie planted tulip trees to replace the wood used. Former Mayor Phil Bredesen declared Nashville the “First DreamHouse City in the Nation.” In 1996, he constructed an authentic replica of an 1800s flatboat to draw attention to the DreamHouse Project. In 1988, in an effort to raise money for the Edgehill Community Center, where he was a board member, Charlie constructed a circa late-1700s raft and, for 16 days, floated down the Cumberland River, being the first to go through the Old Hickory Lake Locks in 50 years. In 1974 he founded Authentique, a décor-acquisition business, and was responsible for many of the authentic items used to decorate the Opryland Theme Park. Authentique provided the décor for the TGI Friday’s restaurant chain worldwide for nearly 30 years and in 1997 Charlie was honored with the first TGI Fridays Worldwide “Living Legend Award”. Throughout his life, Mr. Allen was active in the community, serving on numerous boards and committees. For this, he received a number of awards and much recognition. He was the first recipient of the Mary Catherine Strobel Award for “Outstanding Volunteer of the Year” in 1987. He received the Civitan Club Crownover Award for “Nashville Citizen of the Year” in 1985. In 1995 Charlie received both the “Outstanding Service Award” from the TN Association for the Education of Young Children and the Community Service Award presented by the Junior League of Nashville. He also received the Rotary Club’s highest award, the “Paul Harris Founder Medal.” As a founding member of the Green Hills YMCA, Charlie was, for decades, noted for his prowess on the basketball court. In 1996, along with his wife Gracie, Charlie received from the Greater Nashville YMCA “Members of the Year” as well appointment to the “Wall of Fame” at the Green Hills YMCA. “He made a positive difference in so many lives!” Special thanks to caregivers Rodney Phillips, Barry Braden and Rick Anderson.

Charles Charles Bennett Alsmeyer, 62, passed away on Thursday, March 3, 2016. He was a graduate of Texas A & M University and worked in the computer programming field. Charles is survived by wife Sharon, son Dylan, step-daughter Alexandra Magnus; brother David (wife Jan) in England; sister Ann Kellett (husband Michael) in Bryan/College Station, TX; aunt Doris Sills in Florence, SC; Uncle Ray Alsmeyer (wife Jean) in Houston, TX; nieces, nephews and cousins; and numerous in-laws. A casual open house celebration of his life was held at the residence 460 Cambria Lane SW, Lilburn, GA, on Saturday, March 12. The family wishes expressions of sympathy to be made as contributions to Heartland Hospice Fund.

96, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2014. He was ordained to Presbyterian ministry April, 1944, after graduating from Maryville College, Tenn. and Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, N.J. He also did graduate work at Duke and received an honorary degree from the University of Ghana in Accra, Africa. He and his wife Ruth, who passed away in 2006, served seven congregations across the country. Three of these were in California: Anaheim, Rancho Santa Fe, and Menlo Park. In 1963 he was appointed by the Church’s General Assembly to establish a department of Ecumenical Action for its overseas branch. He developed the VIM (Volunteer in Mission) Program and also held the chair for Africa. He was one of the committee which planned the Peace Corps and then chaired the committee on African Affairs to guide its work there. Rit and his wife Ruth moved to Santa Rosa in 2005 to be near his son Ron and wife Diana from Occidental, grandchildren Chad and wife Janice of Santa Rose, Erica Anderson of Santa Rosa, and great-grandchildren Trevor and Dylan Anderson and Cole and Jake Parman. Their elder daughter, Bonnie Salhany of Los Angeles, younger daughter Cheryl and husband Michael Szuch and grandchildren Evan and Jenna of Oceanside, CA make up the family.

Meriam Reva McGaha Anderson, age 94 of Fountain City passed away on October 7, 2017. Meriam was born December 13, 1922 in Newport, Cocke County, Tennessee. Parents were Lauvinia Fisher and Dr. William Edgar McGaha. Meriam graduated from Maryville College in 1944. After graduation, she was employed by Bureau of Mines, Norris, TN and later Union Carbide at K25, Oak Ridge as a chemist before beginning her family. She was a member of Fountain City Presbyterian Church and a past board member of historic Ramsey House (APTA). Meriam enjoyed gardening, playing bridge, water color painting, and spending time in the Great Smoky Mountains. Preceded in death by parents, husband of 53 years, Harold L. Anderson; brothers Cecil and Dudley McGaha and sisters Lena Brake and Devida King. Survivors include daughter Susan Anderson Pannell; son, James Anderson (Debbie); grandchildren: Anne Pannell Rodman (John), Nathan Anderson (Carrie), William Pannell (Zora Beth); great grandchildren: Whit, Charlie and Reynolds Anderson and Katie and Jack Rodman, and many nieces and nephews. The family received friends on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 in the chapel of Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home, with the Funeral Service at after with Pastor Gradye Parson, officiating. Burial at Lynnhurst Cemetery following the service. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity in Meriams’s memory.

Michael Lee Anderson (Mike), age 54, passed away Sunday March 18, 2018. He graduated from Alcoa High School in 1981 and received a BA in Accounting from Maryville College in 1986. Michael was a member of the Alcoa Kiwanis and was an Ambassador for the Blount Chamber Partnership. He worked for 29 years at First Tennessee Bank, leaving as a senior vice president. He was most recently employed at Russell & Abbott Heating and Air being awarded the “Highest Gross Sales for a New Salesman.” He is preceded by his grandparents Leonard and Mary Hightower, William and Blanche Anderson, his father David Anderson, and son Blake Anderson. He is survived by his wife Julie Anderson, son Derek Anderson, his mother Wanda Anderson, mother-in-law Katherine Parker, sisters-in-law, Diane Drake and Karen LaLonde as well as many other loving relatives. Michael was a loving husband, father, and son who truly lived life to its fullest through his many passions such as art, music, books, and especially his devotion to his family. His generosity and love for those around him was beyond measure, and he was always considered a foundation of strength for his family. A graveside service was held March 23, 2018, at Grandview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be given to the Alcoa Kiwanis or Blount County Humane Society. Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com.

Rev. William Robert Anderson was born on August 5, 1927 and passed away on February 25, 2017. Reverend William Robert Anderson of Lakeport, Retired Presbyterian Minister, passed away peacefully from natural causes after a fall. He leaves behind his companion of 19 years, June Benkelman; three children, Bruce Anderson, Robert Anderson and Celest Boer; friends, Robert and Nancy Benkelman, Ronald and Ruth Benkelman and families. Bill was a graduate of Vanderbilt University, M.A. Divinity, and served our country in the U.S. Marine Corps, having the privilege of being an “attache” to and walking with President Truman on the White House Grounds. He was a Christian who studied extensively the Hawaiian “Huna”, namely the “mana”, the energy and power used by kahunas and Hawaiian Chiefs to perform “healings”. Bill was an advocate of Human Rights and donated significant amounts of money to the education of Black Americans. Bill believed in Jesus, was an ethical man, impeccable with his word and loved by all. His final words: “Blessings upon you” are meaningful to everyone. There will be no services per his wishes. Donations in Bill’s memory can be made to United Christian Parish or Lakeport Senior Center. Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary 707-263-0357, or 994-5611, or online visit chapelofthelakes.com. Please share your memories by signing the guestbook at www.legacy.com.

Anderson, Chesley Speer passed away peacefully surrounded by his children on August 7, 2018, in Saskatoon, Sask. Ches was born August 8, 1928, in Danville, Virginia, to Walter and Ray Anderson, the middle of three boys. He graduated from Maryville College and University of Tennessee and began his teaching career. He was an extraordinary athlete, and participated in gymnastics, wrestling, tennis, golf and many other sports. He loved the outdoors and spent time hunting, fishing, camping and enjoying nature. Painting was a hobby and a passion and he was widely known around Saskatchewan for his watercolours. In 1958, he moved his family to Saskatoon in order to work for the College of Physical Education at the University of Saskatchewan. He retired from the university in 1990 and spent his retirement playing golf, painting and spending time with friends. He loved a challenge and enjoyed trying to figure out how to beat the house at roulette. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Barbara, his children Chesley Jr., Alice (Alan) Neufeld and April (Pat) Loran; his brother John (Judy) Anderson of Wyoming; grandchildren R. Chesley (Tanya) Johnson, Stephanie and Bailey (Cole) Neufeld, Jessica (Aden) Anderson, Noelle and Anthony (Tricia) Loran, Theresa Schmidt and Michelle (Ryan) Ellson. He also has 5 great grandchildren and 4 nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother Walter. The family thanks the staff at Central Haven Care Home for the kindness and love they showed dad.