Obituaries

Louise Gilley Bryson, 94, of Woodbury passed away Monday, August 21, 2023 at Alive Hospice of Murfreesboro.  A native of Cannon Co., she was the daughter of the late Ben & Evelyn Markum Gilley. 

She is survived by her children, Joe Bryson of Woodbury and Rita (Bill) Bryant of Powell, TN.; grandchildren, Betsy Hawkins, Ben (Misty) Bryson, Josh (Dottie) French and Matt (Jessica) French and sister-in-law, Norma Bryson of Woodbury. 8 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild also survive.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Lee “Rusty” Bryson.

A member of the Sycamore Baptist church, Ms. Bryson was a retired school bus driver. She enjoyed doing yard work.

Funeral services will be 1:00 P.M. Saturday, August 26, 2023 at Sycamore Baptist church with Bro. Richard Williams officiating.  Interment will follow in the Sycamore cemetery.  

Visitation with the family will be from 4:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M. Friday and Saturday from 10 am – 12 noon.  

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

Joan Sylvia DeBerry, 80, passed away peacefully Sunday, August 20, 2023 at her home in Murfreesboro.  A native of Ogden, UT, She was the daughter of the late Wallace and Sylvia Doop Roundy.

She is survived by her husband of 39 years, Charles Randall DeBerry of Murfreesboro; son, Robert (Joanie) Bertrand of Ann Arbor, MI.; grandchildren, Blake Bertrand of TX., Nicholas Bertrand and Amelia Bertrand of Ann Arbor, MI.; sister, Lana Gale of UT and her dear friend, Lu Ivancik of Westland, MI.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her 6 siblings. 

Joan was a loving wife and mother. She worked as a bartender for many years in the hospitality industry in MI. 

Joan’s wishes were to be cremated and she will be buried at Centerhill cemetery.

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

Mr. Garl Martin Fugitt, 59, of Readyville, Tennessee went on to be with the Lord on Saturday, August 12, 2023 with his wife by his side. He was born to the late Karl and Katherine Fugitt in Elwood, Indiana on Sunday, August 2, 1964. In addition to his parents, Garl was preceded in death by his brother, Greg Fugitt.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Fugitt; son, Luke Fugitt; daughter, Natalie Fugitt; step-sons, Andy (Brandie Young) Grubb and Jack Grubb; step-daughter, Jenah (Brandon) Gunter; brother, Gary (Susan) Fugitt; step-grandchildren, Bryson Gunter, Emary Gunter, Autumn Young, and Izabell Young; nieces, Kristin (Phil) Monroe and Allysson Fugitt; nephew, Curt Fugitt; great nieces, Eleanor Monroe and Margaret Monroe; and several other family members and friends.

Though he was born in Elwood, Indiana, Garl called the town of Fairfield, Ohio home during his childhood. His passion in life was baseball, and there was no denying that he was good at it. His athletic talents earned him a scholarship to Columbia State Community College. He played for the Chargers for 2 years before transferring to MTSU, where he pitched and fielded as a Blue Raider.

He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications and eventually obtained employment as Clerk for the United States Postal Service, in Woodbury, TN.

Garl’s career with the USPS spanned 25 years, and God must have had a plan for him because that is also how he met his wife, Mary. Coming from strong Christian families, Garl and Mary wanted to emulate the examples set for them and attended North Boulevard Church of Christ in Murfreesboro.

As a boy, his mother instilled a deep faith in him, and he loved her dearly for it. The discipline and love he and his brothers received from both of their parents left a lasting lesson on how to raise children. Having children of his own filled Garl’s heart with joy. He loved them unconditionally, and in them, he was well pleased.

Because he was a wise man, they have ample examples of humility and discernment. Because he was a personable man, they also have the memories of his quick wit, humor, and one-of-a-kind personality. And because he was a godly man, they have hope for a joyous reunion, and what a day that will be!

The family will hold a Celebration of Life service on Saturday, September 2, 2023. Those who wish to attend can reach out for more details.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Rutherford County Tennessee Historical Society, Murfreesboro, TN.

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.

Kerry Jack Mayo, 61, of Jamestown passed away suddenly Saturday, August 12, 2023 at University TN Medical Center.  He was born in Davidson Co., TN. but lived most of his life in Woodbury.

Survivors include his wife of 44 years, Flora Lynn Stratton Mayo of Jamestown; children, Kenny (Melanie) Stratton of Lewisburg, Peyton (Kelly) Mayo of Knoxville and Tricia Mayo (Mike McMillan) of Fl.; grandchildren, Destinee Stratton, Andrew Stratton, Owen Stratton, Sarah Mayo, Jackson Mayo, Hudson Mayo, Karlin and Jayden Mayo and Tori Hammond; great grandchild, Kyler Stratton and siblings, Dewanna (James) Hale of Rockvale, Teresa Jacobs of Christiana, Angela (Billy) Knox of Readyville and Dan Mayo of Smithville. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jacky and Nancy Lassiter Mayo. 

Kerry was retired from Mayo Heating and Air and was a member of the church of Christ.  He enjoyed many things in life including, horseriding, fishing at the lake, being with his dogs, cooking, making wine and playing his violin.  Most of all, he loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Visitation with the family will be Saturday, August 19, 2023 from 12:00 noon until 2:00 P.M. with funeral services to follow at 2:00 P.M. in the Chapel of Woodbury Funeral Home. Bro. Herb Alsup will officiate his service.  Interment will follow in Curlee cemetery.

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

Betty Jane Heath, 69, of Woodbury passed away Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at  St. Thomas Rutherford.  She was born in Cass Lake, MN.

She is survived by daughters, Billie Jo Hall of Antioch and Bobbie Jo Beaudreau of Dickson; 7 grandchildren, Cody Allen Hall, James Douglas Parrish, Jamason Snow, Madison Paige Beaudreau, Cory Ray Hacker and Austen Simmons and Catherine Jane Tancer; 4 great grandchildren, Aiden, Alexis, Alia and Aria Parrish and her dear friend, Judy Nelson.  Several nieces and nephews also survive.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Oran Beaudreau and Barb Wilson Masterson, her husband, Paul “Cookie” Heath, her children, Jason Lee Tancer and Paula Kay Tancer.

Ms. Heath was a homemaker, enjoyed having a booth at the flea market and playing dolls with Catherine.

Memorial visitation will be from 12 noon until 4:00 P.M. Thursday, August 17, 2023 with memorial services following at 4:00 P.M. in the Chapel of Woodbury Funeral Home.

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

Harrell Wayne Stembridge, 86 of Cannon Co., passed away Friday, August 11, 2023 at his home following a short illness.

He is survived by his children, Terry (Pam) Stembridge and Sherry (Andy) Gay all of Woodbury; grandchildren, Tamra (Brandon) Dailey, Terra (Colton) O’Shields, Jessica (Johnathan) Bryson, Kyle (Mandy) Gay, Samuel Stembridge, Tabitha (Jacob) Pope and Jason Stembridge; siblings, James (Sondra) Stembridge, Bernice (Darce) Wimberly, Teresa Farless all of Woodbury, Wade (Pat) Stembridge of Kunkle, OH., Carolyn (Tommy) Burks of Murfreesboro. 13 great grandchildren also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Mary Susan Harrell Stembridge, his wife, Mamie Bogle Stembridge, his sons, Perry Alton Stembridge and Barry Douglas Stembridge and his siblings, Brenda Redmon, Joy, Clarence, Joe Bob, Frank, Carl and Russell Stembridge.

A member of the Plainview Baptist church, he retired from Samsonite where he was a supervisor.  The oldest of 13 children, Harrell served in the United States Army and a veteran of the Korean war. He loved animals, especially his dog, Little Man, farming and making people laugh.  Most of all, Harrell loved his family and he always put others first.

It was Harrell’s wishes to be cremated and his ashes be buried with his wife, Mamie.

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

Mr. Nile Francis, age 85, of Woodbury passed away Saturday, August 12, 2023 at St. Thomas Stones River Hospital.  He was born to his parents, Rayburn & Mae Belle Bryson Francis on June 12, 1938 in Cannon County.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Melena Dean Sissom Francis of Woodbury; Children, Jeff Francis of Murfreesboro & Jana (Jason) Hobbs of Hendersonville; Grandchildren, Kelly (Keith) Herman, Hannah Hobbs, & Ally Hobbs; Great Grandchildren, John Herman & Shelby Herman; and his siblings, Buddy (Martha) Francis & Billy Francis of Woodbury; Bobby (Brenda) Francis of Auburntown, and Mary L. Hall of Nashville.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Jo Ann Davis & Elizabeth Wilson.

Nile was a member of the First Baptist Church and was retired from G.E. after 30 years.  He loved gardening and working in his yard, spending winters in Florida, and enjoying the beach sunrises.

Graveside Services will be at 11 AM Monday, August 14, 2023 at Riverside Gardens Cemetery with Bro. Dean Anderson officiating.

Woodbury Funeral Home, 615.563.2311, www.woodburyfuneralhome.net

Judy Carolyn Gannon, 75, passed away Thursday, August 10, 2023 at her home in Readyville.  A native of Cannon Co., she was the daughter of the late John and Mary Vassar Underwood.

She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Wade Gannon of Readyville; children, Joan (Wayne)Ferrell of Readyville and Caleb Gannon of Brentwood; grandchildren, Kourtney Kaul, Corey Ferrell and Dayton Gannon; great grandchildren, Bailey, Weston, Aubree and Skylar and siblings, Bobby Underwood of Viola and Viva Dean Hollis of Nashville.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Unive Knox, Bud Underwood and Jerry Underwood.

A member of the Bradyville church of Christ, she was a seamstress for Val-Dor.  Judy loved her family immensely especially getting to spend time with her grandbabies.  She enjoyed watching basketball, crocheting and collecting hummingbirds. 

Funeral services will be 10:00 A.M. Saturday, August 12, 2023 in the Chapel of Woodbury Funeral Home with Bro. Charles Gunter officiating.  Interment will follow in the Prater Cemetery.  Pallbearers include Corey Ferrell, Jacob Kaul, Bobby Parker, Jason Thomas, Ronnie Parker, Junior Underwood, Keith Thomas, Shawn Gunter and Jeremy Gunter.

Visitation with her family will be Friday, August 11, 2023 from 4:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M.

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

Ms. Gina Eileen Fann, 60, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee passed away on Thursday, August 3, 2023. She was born to the late Curtis Ray and Nora B Gentry Fann in Woodbury, Tennessee on Tuesday, July 16, 1963. In addition to her parents, Gina was preceded in death by her uncles, Jimmy Fann, Cecil Gentry, and Harold Gentry; and aunts, Virginia Fann, Lavada Carlton, and Laura Prater

She is survived by her sister, Lori (Jeff) Reynolds; niece, Delaney Reynolds; uncles, Bill Fann, Morris Fann, Dorris Fann, Boyd Gentry, and Billy Gentry; aunts, Wilma Haynes and Sue Griffith; and several cousins.

It was once said by Edward Bulwer-Lytton that “the pen is mightier than the sword,” and Gina was a firm believer in that. Before she was 3 years old, Gina was reading and comprehending the newspaper, and she didn’t waste her time in the comic section. She laid the foundation for becoming a life-long avid reader, and again, she didn’t want to waste her time with fairy tales.

Gina’s primary reading materials were comprised of historical literature. Learning about Tennessee History and reading biographies and autobiographies influenced the majority of her personal library. As a movie buff, she held a special interest in the biographies of female historical figures and Hollywood stars, and that desire to know women’s stories fostered her collection of Barbies as well as her future endeavors battling with a pen.

Graduating from MTSU with a Bachelor’s in Mass Communications, Gina was ready to take on any challenge. Her passion for words preceded her, and she began working at the Nashville Banner. During that time, Gina pushed herself to learn how to use her pen more dexterously for the benefit of others and took a few classes at the Nashville School of Law. Her life remained centered around Nashville until the Nashville Banner closed, and then, Gina was elated to find a job opening back at her alma mater.

A proud graduate of MTSU, returning there was like a homecoming. She joined the Office of News and Media Relations in 2004, writing for the MTSU News on their in-writing and digital publications. Working as a Communications Specialist fit Gina like a glove, and there she found ample opportunity to advocate for women’s rights and issues. Other than a pen, Gina could also use her words vocally and volunteered with the Women’s Abuse Hotline. Her quick wit worked for the good providing women in crisis with the response and guidance they needed.

That desire to listen, to care, and to help can also be traced back to words. Gina’s love affair with words scaffolded her passion for listening, learning, and sharing peoples’ stories. Though Gina didn’t entertain fairy tales as a child, she strived to use words to help people create their own happily ever after, but that didn’t just go for people. Gina was known for her cats and her love of animals. PAWS of Rutherford County became another organization dear to Gina’s heart.

For those who prefer to not send flowers, memorial donations may be made to PAWS of Rutherford County (285 John R. Rice Boulevard in Murfreesboro, TN). 

Visitation will be held at Gentry-Smith Funeral Home on Saturday, August 19, 2023 from 9-11 am. Memorial services will follow directly after on Saturday, August 19, 2023 at 11 am in the Gentry-Smith Funeral Home chapel. Reverend Jeff Reynolds will officiate. Interment will be in Cothran Cemetery.

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

Mr. Christopher George Willard, 42, of Nolensville, Tennessee passed away on Thursday, August 3, 2023. He was born in Nashville, Tennessee on Sunday, September 14, 1980. Preceding him in death were his grandfathers, Sam Willard and John Herrera.

He is survived by his significant other, Heather Willard; children, Chris (Annie) Willard of La Vergne, Shalyn Willard of Murfreesboro, and Kallie Willard of Florence, Alabama; father, James (Judy) Willard of Morrison; mother, Roxanna (Dale Brady) Willard of Kentucky; siblings, Brandon Willard and Amber (Devin Hall) Willard both of Nashville; granddaughter, Mya Willard of La Vergne; grandmothers, Dorothy Scott of Murfreesboro and Ellie Herrera of California; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Christopher was rough around the edges but had a heart of gold. His calloused exterior came from years of working in construction doing office remodels and working in the garage doing auto body work. There wasn’t much he couldn’t repair or rebuild. Growing up at the race track, Christopher learned from an early age his need for speed and appreciation for skill.

A lot of weekends were spent at the track with his dad, and when James decided to quit racing in 2010, Christopher was quick to jump at the opportunity to continue the family legacy. One of their first races was at the Smyrna Speedway, which now is the home of the Nissan Activity Center pool. The family tradition was racing stock cars, and Christopher race his dad’s Sportsman.

7 must have been quite the lucky number because even though Christopher only got to race about 15 times in his life, he always finished toward the front. It took some time to get Christopher trained to not look in the rearview mirror while driving. He snagged the win on the race where it clicked, but the temptation to look back was greater than usual with someone hitting him in the bumper. James reminded him not to worry about what was behind him but to worry about what was in front of him. Crossing the line with his bumper hanging, lucky number 7 finally took the first-place seat.

Now when Christopher wasn’t working, building, rebuilding, racing, or strategizing, he enjoyed slowing down for a while and going to car shows, playing disc golf, or shooting pool. Again, his appreciation for skill came into play, and his technique earned him a spot in his hobbies at the front of the pack. With a competitor’s spirit, it may be difficult to think of Christopher having a soft side, but all you had to do was see him around his kids.

The big, strong grizzly bear often became a bit more akin to a teddy bear with his children, especially once Mya came along. Christopher loved his family and would cut up and be silly with them. He was someone who strived to keep everyone smiling, but his kids returned the favor when they showed interest in Christopher’s hobbies.

Go-cart racing topped the list of favorite memories with their dad. Christopher was energized and motivated to get Mya in a go-cart all of her own to carry on that tradition. Speaking of tradition, you might wonder about the actual Willard Family racing tradition. Well, it lives on through Shalyn. She decided working construction and racing were the way to go in life, and Chris and Annie are sure to have the 4th generation in training with Mya.

There are many things that Christopher will be remembered for during his short time on this earth. Skillful construction and auto body work, talented racing, a good game of disc golf and pool, a competitive spirit, a goofball personality, may come to the minds of people first, but probably the most important to him would be that he was the best Opa. It is with broken hearts that his family lays him to rest.

Graveside services will be Friday, August 11, 2023 at 12 pm at Riverside Cemetery. Chris’s aunt, Karen Wolfe, will officiate.

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