Obituaries

Mrs. Annabel Seward Black, 87, of Woodbury, Tennessee passed away on Saturday, July 27, 2024. She was born in Rockwood, Tennessee on Tuesday, August 25, 1936 to the late Harry and Grayce Martin Seward. Also preceding her in death was her husband, Buddy Black, and several cousins and extended family members.

She is survived by her close friends, Tommy and Linda Malone of Woodbury, Pam Hawkersmith of Manchester, and Melinda Bailey of Woodbury; cousins, Katye Jones of Chattanooga and Marcia Marsh of Rockwood; and several other extended family members.

Born in the middle of the Great Depression as an only child, Annabel tended to not talk much about her childhood. However, she did keep her old high school basketball team photo and a few other cherished memories close at hand. While the stories were far and few between, the impact was pervasive in her life. 

A woman of forethought, Annabel knew exactly what she wanted in life and set out to conquer what she set her mind to do. She attended Ohio State University and received her Bachelor’s in Fine Arts before going on to work for the State of Tennessee in Chattanooga. Working in the TN Department of Employment Security, her decisiveness and tact was noticed, and she took on the managerial role of the Department for almost 30 years.

Her drive got her noticed outside of the workplace too. It was on a blind date in Chattanooga that she met her future husband, Buddy. Recognizing that Annabel was the epitome of a lady, Buddy made sure to get on her radar. A decorated, professional horse and mule trainer and showman, Buddy didn’t know the challenge of the show he was entering himself in with Annabel. It might have been the hardest win of his career, but they were wed on November 26, 1983.

Work took the couple to McMinnville, where Annabel finished up her last years in the Department of Employment Security before the position was abolished. Then, they made their way to Woodbury, where Annabel and Buddy expanded their family through church. The First United Methodist Church of Woodbury became their church home, and they met friends to last a lifetime. Tommy and Linda were some of the first, and Annabel quickly found a sister, bonding with Linda about growing up as an only child.

Now, those friends really proved their worth when Annabel showed Buddy he wasn’t the only one with show-grade animals. Rather than horses, Annabel took up with rabbits. She trained them to use the litter box, and they had their own room in the house. Other than their habit of chewing up anything. they were clean and well-mannered. Annabel would drive anywhere to get their food, but Buddy didn’t have the same sentiment toward them. So, she got Tommy and Linda to take care of them anytime she was away.

Even though Annabel was thorough and particular, she made it easy to love her. Tommy picked at her that she was sweet (nearly) all the time, but everyone knew the truth of the matter with Annabel. She was set in her ways and stern, but her heart was filled with care and compassion. The wisdom of knowing when to draw a line in the sand and when to step over was her strong suit. Pam commented on what kind of a person it takes to keep and care for both your mother and mother-in-law at the same time. That was just Annabel.

If you knew her, you knew she was going to have the TV on when Ohio State was playing, speak her mind, make your heart and belly fuller, and strive to serve. Annabel enjoyed watching football in general, but when it came to her alma mater, don’t even try to call her when they were playing. If football wasn’t on, the TV usually got turned to old Westerns, Perry Mason, or Columbo. She must have picked up a thing or two from those shows because Annabel knew how to lay down the law.

She educated herself on current events and had strong political views. Pam would pick at her out of playful meanness, but Annabel had her rebuttal prepared. And when Ohio State lost? Even the men at church knew to steer clear. Melinda was about the only one that Annabel let talk to her no matter what the scenario, but Annabel couldn’t stay mad long. She was a giver, and it was an itch she never could scratch. 

Time and time again, Annabel gave of herself, her time, and her talents. She could make your waistband grow a little tighter with her chocolate pecan candy, pimento cheese, and sweet potato casserole. When she decided to trade out rabbits for dogs, she took in rescues. Trixie was her loving companion until she had to be put down, but Sadie was already lined up for a better life too. She held a special place in her heart for God’s creatures.

Her servant’s heart led her to use her artistic abilities to paint the murals at the church in the Sunday School classes and for Christmas. She also knitted Afghans, nativity scenes, and prayer shawls for people. While knitting the prayer shawls, she would pray that whoever received it would be blessed by God. Then, it was passed around the congregation for additional prayers before being given to the individual in need. Then, it came a time when Annabel was in need of a prayer shawl herself.

When Buddy’s health began to fail, Melinda came into her life, and Melinda stayed as true to her as a daughter to her mother, taking care of Annabel after Buddy passed in 2017. Annabel doted on her with that signature love and care yet sternness when she felt it necessary. Rallying around her, Linda, Tommy, Pam, and Melinda aimed to make every day as easy and memorable as possible, and Annabel returned the favor through her love and devotion as a friend.

In all of the chaos of life, Annabel’s boat remained even-keeled because she let God take control of the rudder. She used her talents to bless people’s lives and her friendship to make them all the richer. Though she is getting to hear “Well done” and it is only a temporary parting, there are still holes in the hearts of those she left behind.

Visitation will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Woodbury on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 from 12-2 pm. Funeral services will follow after on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at 2 pm in the First United Methodist Church of Woodbury chapel. Rev. David Lilley and Bro. Scott Eggleston will officiate. Interment will be in Riverside Garden. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First United Methodist Church of Woodbury.

Share memories and condolences at www.gentrysmithfuneralhome.com Gentry-Smith Funeral Home, 303 Murfreesboro Rd. Woodbury, TN 37190, 615-563-5337 Because every life has a story

Johnny Lloyd Gannon, 60, passed away suddenly Wednesday, July 24, 2024 at his home in Woodbury. Born in Cannon Co., he was the son of Barbara Gannon of Woodbury and the late Lloyd Gannon. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Ricky Gannon.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Diane Lloyd Gannon of Woodbury; his sons, Matthew Gannon of Murfreesboro and Hagen Fann of Woodbury; sister, Lisa (Chris) Patterson of Woodbury and brothers, Terry (Susan) Gannon of Morrison and Kevin (Jessica) Gannon of Auburntown; step-son, Ricky Gannon, Jr. of Woodbury; step-daughter, Christy (Ryan) Soper of Shelbyville; grandson, Braxton Soper; aunts, Judy Koval of Woodbury, Marilyn (Denny) Harrell of GA. and Faye Thomas of Bradyville; uncle, Wade Gannon of Woodbury; nieces, Ashley (CJ) Patterson, Carlie Gannon, Annie Gannon and Gracie Gannon and sister-in-law, Faye Cain.

Johnny attened the Church of Christ and he was a retired truck driver. Johnny enjoyed playing with his dog, Bandit, watching Judge Judy, spending time with his family and having Sunday dinner at his moms.

Funeral services will be 2:00 P.M. Sunday, July 28, 2024 in the Chapel of Woodbury Funeral Home with Bro. Brian Hayes officiating. Interment will follow in Prater cemetery.

His family will receive friends Saturday, July 27, 2024 from 3:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. 

Woodbury Funeral Home, 615-563-2311 or to leave condolences and memories for his family, please visit www.woodburyfuneralhome.net

Peggy Joanne Pittman Flavin, 69, of Bradyville passed away at Alive Hospice in Murfreesboro.  Born in Columbus, IN., she was the daugther of the late Carl Eugene and Bette Marie Franklin Pittman.

She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Dennis Flavin of Bradyville; her children, Amy Eileen Flavin of Woodbury and Colleen Marie Flavin of Bradyville; granddaughter, Elizabeth Leigh Flavin;siblings, Carol Pittman Caswell of Lakeland, FL., Donald Gene Pittman of Asheville, N.C.  

Mrs. Flavin was a homemaker and member of the Presbyterian church. She loved to color, do word puzzles and cross-stitch.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Woodbury Funeral Home, 615-563-2311 or to leave condolences and memories for her family, please visit www.woodburyfuneralhome.net.

Donald Kennedy Morton, 84, passed away Friday, July 19, 2024 at his home in Murfreesboro.  Born in Rutherford Co., he was the son of the late Minus Morton, Sr. and Myrtle Lou Raney Williams.

He is survived by his daughter, Donna Morton Forth of Murfreesboro; grandchildren, William “Scotty” Forth of Murfreesboro, Cody (Brittany) Forth of Murfreesboro, Tyler (Brittany) Forth of Smithville and Keshia Green of MI.; great grandchildren, Lisa Marie, Natalie Autumn, Bentley Travis, Luke Raiyden, Tinley Marie, Kayde Dalton, Larry Cole and Daniel Kennedy; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Lewis Perry of Christiana, Rachel Morton of Murfreesboro, Virginia Morton of Bradyville, Larry (Arlene) Sanders of Woodbury and Vida (James Robert) King of Beech Grove.  Several nieces and nephews also survive.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Morton was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Vivian Sanders Morton; brothers and sisters-in-law, William Hiley (Kathrine) Morton, Tommy (Rosie) Morton, Roy Morton, Minus “Dudley” Morton, Jr and Joe B. Morton; sisters and brothers-in-law, Margaret (Erskin, Jr.) Manus, Emma (Howard) West, and Lois Perry; 2 nephews, Kenneth Morton and Bobby West; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Opal and Savage Sanders; brother-in-law and sister-in-law; Maureen and William Mooneyham and son-in-law, Robert D. Forth, II.

A member of the Temple Baptist church, Donald was retired from Jefferson-Smurfit of Murfreesboro where he worked for 42 years.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, growing his garden, riding his bicycle and spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be 2:00 P.M. Friday, July 26, 2024 in the Chapel of Woodbury Funeral Home with Bro. Don McMurry officiating.  Interment will follow in Cherry cemetery. 

His family will receive friends Thursday, July 25, 2024 from 4:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. and Friday, July 26, 2024 from 10:00 A.M. until 2:00 P.M. at Woodbury Funeral Home, 615-563-2311 or to leave condolences and memories for his family, please visit www.woodburyfuneralhome.net

Mr. Ray Sanders, 71, of Woodbury, Tennessee passed away on July 19, 2024, at his home. He was born in Murfreesboro, Tennessee on December 19, 1952. He was preceded by his parents, Herman Sanders and Adell Rogers Sanders. Also, by a son, Douglas Sanders; a brother, Pete Sanders; and a sister, Helen Porter.

He is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Wanda Sanders; five sons, Robert (Kim) Sanders, Richard (Teresa) Sanders, Michael (Kimberly) Sanders, Aubrey Sanders, and Bobby Sanders all of Woodbury; brothers, Wayne (Sherry) Sanders and Ronnie Sanders both of Murfreesboro; grandchildren, Beatrice (Johnathan Nichols) Sanders, Brianna (Chris) Sanders, Julianne Hodge, and Connor Tucker; great grandson, Daryl Sanders; best friend, Billy Worley; and fur buddy, Max.

Ray was born in the Cripple Creek community of Rutherford County. Life in this part of the country, post WW2, was still hard for many families. Ray’s family was no exception. He dropped out of school as a boy to help his family on the farm. Milking cows and pitching in to put food on the table. Just across the creek and up the hill lived the Barlow family. It didn’t escape his attention; they had a pretty young daughter named Wanda who caught his eye. Every chance he had he would cross the creek to go see her. In 1971 they tied the knot and started their family. 

Starting off they didn’t have much, but they made the best of what they had and filled in the gaps with love. They found a place to live in Lascassas. Ray and Wanda didn’t have a car at first and he would walk to Murfreesboro looking for work every day. Even though they were struggling, they managed to have everything they needed. Ray and Wanda believed in taking care of family or anyone else who needed a hand. It wasn’t long before they took in two of Wanda’s younger brothers to help raise. They were happy to continue the tradition of helping raise and care for the grandchildren.

He was mechanically inclined and learned how to work on his own cars and small engines. He was also quick to share his knowledge with his family. Making sure to show them how to work on their own cars. His great grandson, Darrell, would often shadow his Papa to see how to work on the lawn mower. Growing up the hard way didn’t mean he didn’t know how to laugh and cut up. Ray was the kind of man who spoke his mind and told you how it was. Work wasn’t the only thing on Ray’s mind. Fishing was a hobby he enjoyed, and the grandchildren could tag along. Walking afforded him the opportunity to spend time with them and his fur buddies. His favorite route was on the greenway in Murfreesboro meandering through the Stones River National Battlefield. 

Although he didn’t subscribe to formal norms of religion, by showing up in church. He believed in God and kept his Bible close at hand to read from. He and Wanda made sure to treat others as they would want to be treated and take care of their family. Through thick and thin they stuck together and made sure the family knew they were loved. 

Visitation will be held at Gentry-Smith Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, from 10-1 pm. Memorial services will follow in the Gentry-Smith Funeral Home chapel at 1 pm. Tim Gentry will officiate. Share memories and condolences with the family at www.gentrysmithfuneralhome.com. Gentry-Smith Funeral Home, 303 Murfreesboro Rd. Woodbury, TN 37190, 615-563-5337. Because every life has a story.

Ms. Tamara Dillon, 73, of Woodbury, Tennessee passed away on July 16, 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee with her family and close friends at her side. She was born in Pontiac, Michigan on January 15, 1951. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clyde Donald Haley and Julia “June” Dillon Muszynski; and aunts, Christine “Cripp” Dillon and Rachel “Sack” Haley.

She is survived by her daughter, Shannon Schwerin of Michigan; grandchildren, Nicole and Gunnar Schwerin both of Michigan; brothers, Roger (Ann) Haley of Florida and Michael (Jennifer) Haley of Oregon; aunts, Martha Brandon of Nashville and Elizabeth “Toopa” Rowe of Florida; best friend, Jan Pedigo Todd of Murfreesboro; and numerous cousins and friends.

If you knew Tamara and the Dillon family, you knew immediately they were a tight-knit bunch. They loved one another, but they weren’t so laced up that they couldn’t or wouldn’t poke a little fun at each other. They were always ready to have a get-together, eat, and laugh. The Dillon name goes back a long way in the history of Cannon County. Tamara’s great-grandfather, Z.T. Dillon, had a street in town named after him, and the family still owns the property where his home was located on what is now known as Dillon Street. 

Tamara was also blessed to be able to build her home on the original farm where her grandparents, Herbert and Gladys Francis, raised her mother, Julia, and her siblings. When her mother, aunts, and uncles grew up, all of them moved away from Cannon County, except for her aunts, Christine and Rachel. Christine loved Cannon County and, after her parents had sold the family farm, made it her life’s ambition to buy it back and live there. Tamara wound up building herself a cabin just up the hill from Christine’s house on the farm.

Julia moved to Michigan and became a registered nurse in psychiatric medicine. It must have made an indelible impression on Tamara because she became a psychiatric nurse too. She worked for 38 years caring for patients. Working in the psych nursing field, you have to have a different outlook and attitude. Dealing with people with a range of mental disorders could quickly lead to burnout or a disorder of your own. Tamara handled it all well and knew laughter was her best medicine. She always had a quick-witted retort when asked a question or confronted with a problem. Even so, she wasn’t thin-skinned. She could laugh at herself and laugh with other people when she was the butt of the joke.

She was very close with her brother, Roger, and her aunt, Elizabeth “Toopa” Rowe. She and Roger would often get together and make the rounds visiting all the nearby family. Toopa and Tamara were not too far apart in age, and it seemed like they were sisters at times. When Tamara was ready to see Toopa again, she and Christine would load up and head to Florida, but Tamara didn’t need an excuse to travel. If she had a spare day or two, she would zip up to Michigan to visit Shannon and the grandchildren or off to parts unknown with her friend, Jan. The travel bug had dug into her so deep she took a trip to Spain by herself once, experiencing the culture and scenery of Barcelona and Madrid. She shared her adventures and tales at the Dillon family’s July get-together at Christine’s farm, while also enjoying time reminiscing of the good ole days. 

Another thing you could expect from the Dillon family and Tamara was a strong faith in God. Tamara was active with her church family at the Smith Grove Church of Christ. She took part in teaching classes for children, VBS, church outings, Bible study, and prayer groups. She and the minister, Al Bugg, had a common bond because they were raised in Michigan but had roots in Cannon County. They would often banter back and forth in class about “not being from here.” They were both still at home in Cannon County because they belonged here in their hearts. Yet, it was a piece of Tamara’s heart that kept calling her back to Michigan on trips.

She was a proud mother and grandmother. Often, she would brag about how well Shannon had done in her career or how Nicole and Gunnar were doing in school or extracurricular activities. It recharged her batteries to zip up to visit them and maybe see other family members while she was there. They weren’t immune from her having a little fun with them either. Many people commented on how she and Shannon sounded so much alike on the phone. So, Tamara decided to play a prank on Shannon’s friends. She pretended to be Shannon just to see how far she could go. Her fun-loving and caring spirit made her a unique character who made a lasting impression on her family and friends. 

Tamara’s wish was to be cremated and have her cremains scattered on the family farm to continue to remain a part of Cannon County. She also wanted the family to hold a big party in her honor, which they will do at a later date.

Share memories and condolences with the family at www.gentrysmithfuneralhome.com Gentry-Smith Funeral Home, 303 Murfreesboro Rd. Woodbury, TN 37190, 615-563-5337. Because every life has a story. 

Kathy Keene Blansett, 63, passed away Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at Alive Hospice of Murfreesboro. Born in Lebanon, she is the daughter of Nita Chance Keene of Lebanon and the late Barry Keene.

She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Eddie Blansett of Milton; her son and daughter-in-law, Bo and Stacey Blansett of Milton; 4 grandchildren, Elliott, Lilly, Evan and Daisie; sister and brother-in-law, Kay and Phil Randolph of Lebanon; uncle and aunt, Barry and Cathy Chance of Antioch; nephew and niece, Matt & Blanca Randolph.

A member of the Milton Church of Christ, Kathy was retired from State Farm after 44 years. She loved her church family, spending time on the farm with her family, shopping, traveling and she loved chocolate.

Her family will receive friends Sunday, July 21, 2024 from 12:00 noon until 4:00 P.M. at Milton Church of Christ. Funeral services will immediately follow with Bro. Teb Batey officiating. Interment will follow in the Milton cemetery.

Pallbearers include Rob Vinson, Michael, Chase and Andrew Youngblood, Chad Huddleston, Bryce Bogle and Matt Randolph. Honorary pallbearers include, Elliott and Evan Patrick and Thomas Jay Chance.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Woodbury Funeral Home, 615-563-2311 or to leave condolences and memories for her family, please visit www.woodburyfuneralhome.net

Betty Jo Parker Saxon Moorehead, 76, passed away at her home in Nashville Tuesday, July 16, 2024.

Born in Rutherford Co., she was the daughter of the late Roy & Lizzie Brown Parker. She is survived by her children, Joe (Dawn) Saxon of Joelton, Allen Saxon of Nashville, Johnny (Rachel) Saxon of Nashville, Ricky Sloan, Jr. of Gallatin, Joslin Renee Alderidge of Nashville and Dakota Alderidge of Nashville; sister, Shirley Dotson of Smyrna and grandchildren, Lillie Jo Saxon, Addison Miles, Brandon Dixon, Brittney Dixon and many more.

She worked in the hosiery mills.

Funeral services will be 3:00 P.M. Monday, July 22, 2024 in the Chapel of Woodbury Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the Riverside cemetery. Her family will receive friends Sunday, July 21, 2024 from 4:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M.

Woodbury Funeral Home, 615-563-2311 or to leave condolences and memories for her family, please visit www.woodburyfuneralhome.net

Harold Lee Good, 76, passed away Thursday, July 18, 2024 at his home in Bradyville.  Born in Stevens, PA., he was the son of the late Norman S. Good and Pauline Eschleman Good.

He is survived by his siblings, Richard Paul (Joyce) Good of Lebanon Co., PA., Robert N. (Mary Lou) Good of Bradyville, Ann Rush of Buhler, KS. and Randy L. (Deborah) Good of Burrton, KS.  Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Good was veteran of the United States Army where he served in Vietnam and he was a financial advisor.  He loved living in Las Vegas, loved music mostly southern gospel and he was exceptionally generous. 

Funeral services will be 10:00 A.M. Saturday, July 27, 2024 in the Chapel of Woodbury Funeral Home.  Burial to follow in the Amity cemetery with military honors.  Visitation with his family will be Friday, July 26, 2024 from 7:00 P.M. – 8:30 P.M.

Woodbury Funeral Home, 615-563-2311 or to leave condolences for his family, please visit www.woodburyfuneralhome.net.

Mrs. Madeline Carroll Sanders, 78, of Woodbury, Tennessee passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2024. She was born to the late Amos Paschal and Pearlee Fairbanks Richey in Knoxville, Tennessee on Sunday, October 14, 1945.

She is survived by her husband, George Roland Sanders of Woodbury; children, Teresa (Jim) Stluka, Carol Sanders Willis, and Roland “Jason” (Kim Lewis) Sanders; half-siblings, Debbie Richey, Janice Giles, Joann Cagle, and Bobby Richey; grandchildren, Dustin (Amanda) Stluka, Brittany (Brandon) Lassiter, Matthew (Ginny) Stluka, Brandon (Rachel Williams) Basham, Kelsie Willis, Andrea Willis, and Collin Sanders; 6 great grandchildren, companion and protector, her Chiweenie, Rocky Roland; and several close friends.

Life never dealt Madeline the easiest cards, but she faced challenges and difficulties head-on because she knew whose hand she was holding. Raised by her grandparents, they did all they could to set Madeline up for life by teaching her how to fend for herself. Many of those lessons were taught during cherished camping trips, where she would bait her own hook and cast a line.

Growing up in a suburb of Knoxville, a town called Vestal, Madeline attended Young High School until she reached 11th grade. Like many in her generation, school was a privilege, not a guarantee. What was guaranteed was the need to work and help at home, and Madeline blessed her family in those areas. 

That knack and her beauty got noticed by a young man named Roland, whose stepfather happened to work at the same steel plant in Michigan as her father. Somehow, the two men got their children connected, and the couple discovered they had more in common than they realized. In fact, they were born in the same city and in the same hospital.

Roland used that information to kid Madeline and tell her that she saw his name on the birth registry and came to Michigan to get him. The humor and understanding of blended families that each of them had drew them closer together, and they decided to get married and start a family of their own.

With three young ones in tow, the Sanders family moved to Cannon County on Labor Day weekend of 1974. After a couple of years living in Bradyville, they decided to move on in to the big city of Woodbury, and on Labor Day weekend of 1976, they established their forever home, where they would finish raising their children and eventually welcome their grandchildren into the world.

Madeline took great pleasure in sharing the joys of her childhood, taking her children camping and fishing. She passed on her grit and determination in life through her “cowboy shows” and contagious humor. A lover of music, Madeline would change the lyrics of songs and create silly renditions to keep her family smiling and laughing. 

Her mothering heart made her a good listener and attentive to her children’s needs and problems. However, her background in life helped her give some creative advice at times. She wanted to raise her children to be strong and able to be independent from everyone but God. Roland and Madeline affirmed their faith and replenished their spirits at the Woodbury Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses but walked daily with Jesus.

Finding God throughout creation, Madeline marveled at the simple things in life. She enjoyed watching birds and quickly became fascinated by hummingbirds. It pleased her each spring to see her red tulips emerge from the flower beds in the front yard. There never was a problem too big for a drive and talk with Jesus to fix as she surveyed God’s handiwork.

When the grandchildren came along, Madeline had renewed vigor as a grandmother. The adoration of a child for his or her grandmother was evident in each of their relationships. She wanted better for her children and the best for her grandchildren. Aside from her family, the only other one to weasel his way into her heart was her trusty companion, Rocky, the Chiweenie. 

Through it all, Madeline kept that same mothering spirit. Even though the kids were grown, Madeline made sure no one wanted anything they needed. One of her most common sayings was, “Go in the kitchen and get you one of them sandwiches,” but it wasn’t the fridge being stocked that kept people coming back. Madeline kept the air filled with laughter, her voice filled with care, and her heart filled with love.

The family will hold private services at a later date.

Share memories and condolences at www.gentrysmithfuneralhome.com Gentry-Smith Funeral Home, 303 Murfreesboro Rd. Woodbury, TN 37190, 615-563-5337 Because every life has a story