Rev. Robert “Bob” Strickland ’61
Rev. Robert R. Strickland, 84, died September 27, 2023, at the Jordan River Health Campus in Collierville, Tennessee. An only child, he was born in 1939 in Atlanta, Georgia, to Ralph and Estelle Strickland. Bob graduated from East High School, 1957; Southwestern at Memphis (Rhodes College), 1961; and Candler School of Theology at Emory, 1964. He was a member of Alpha Tau Omega. For forty years he served as a United Methodist Church pastor in eleven churches in Shelby, Tipton, and Fayette counties. His first assignment was as an associate pastor at Highland Heights United Methodist Church in Memphis, and his final assignment was as pastor at New Bethel United Methodist Church in Rossville, Tennessee. Bob was a friend not only to his parishioners but also to anyone he met. He remembered the tapestry of people’s lives — their education, professions, family ties, marriages, children, and anniversaries. He was fond of the animal world too and always had a small dog as a pet, his last being Pepper. Bob loved the spirituality of people as well as the secular creations of mankind, such as art, literature, and music. For the past two years he had attended Eads United Methodist Church on Sundays and loved singing the hymns. Bob was a man never without words. He always listened intently in a conversation and had remarkable and creative responses to anyone’s comments. Bob is survived by his wife of fifty-eight years, Oma Robinson Strickland of The Farms at Bailey Station, 3300 S. Houston Levee Road, Collierville, Tennessee 38017 and his first cousin, Gail Mulcare, and her family of Highland, Maryland. Being a people person, Bob also leaves a host of special friends and acquaintances. Prior to their move to The Farms at Bailey Station, Bob and Oma built a home in Eads and enjoyed living there for more than twenty years.
Vern E. McCarty ’66
Vern Edward McCarty, intown neighborhood advocate, real estate developer, and former Atlanta City Council member, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2023, with family at his side.
Vern was born on February 18, 1944, to Hugh and Lessie McCarty of Laurel, Miss. After he graduated from Rhodes College in Memphis, Tenn., and Princeton Theological Seminary in Princeton, N.J., he spent two years in the Philippines training theology students for urban mission work. In the process, he cultivated a lifelong passion for urban community development.
He moved to Atlanta in 1972 to work for Urban Training Organization of Atlanta, a nonprofit whose goal was to revive the city’s intown neighborhoods and prevent the demolition of their historic housing stock. As a community developer, Vern worked to create neighborhood civic associations that brought residents together to solve problems. He lived in Grant Park and was instrumental in founding the Association to Revive Grant Park, now the Grant Park Neighborhood Association.
Vern’s interest in historic preservation led to a career rehabilitating historic properties. His major in-town Atlanta projects included NuGrape Lofts, Crown Candy Lofts, and The Massellton, a garden apartment complex. He also developed the Broadway Lofts in downtown Macon.
Special community restoration targets included Grant Park, the city’s oldest park, and Oakland Cemetery, which predates the Civil War. Both had fallen into neglect, and he was involved in their significant rehabilitation during his years as a neighborhood advocate and member of the Atlanta City Council from 1994 to 2002.
Vern is survived by his wife, Caroline “Betsy” Lerner; brother, Davis McCarty; nephews, Rick McCarty, Patrick McCarty and Joseph Sisk, and niece, Nina Cantrell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Nina Victoria Sisk and an infant sister, Evelyn Gay McCarty.
Dr. John “Jack” L. Streete ’60
John Lemuel (“Jack”) Streete, died on Friday, October 6th. Born in Memphis March 10, 1938, he grew up in Tunica, MS and Caruthersville, MO. He attended Rhodes College (then Southwester at Memphis), graduating in 1960, going on to do graduate work in physics at the University of Florida, from which he received his Ph.D. in 1967. He had a long and distinguished career at Rhodes, teaching physics from 1966 until his retirement in 2003.
He participated in several solar eclipse observations, in Alaska, Kenya, India, Hawaii, and Panama. He also spent several sabbaticals and summers working at the High Altitude Observatory and the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, CO.
Jack’s interests indicated his great sense of adventure and zest for life, including fly-fishing and travel throughout the world. He was a Yellow Dog Democrat who opposed racism, sexism, homophobia, and oppressive forms of religion. He also loved animals, particularly his dog, Delta, who also came from Tunica.
He is preceded in death by his father, John L. Streete, his mother, Dorothy Poore Streete, his brother, James Terrance (“Ted”) Streete, and a son, James Travis (“Jim”) Streete. He is survived by a sister, Dorothy Alexis Streete; his wife of 30 years, Gail (Patterson) Streete, his daughters Elizabeth M. Streete (Paul Skjoldager) and Ellen Streete Weatherly; a son, John L. Streete; and six grandchildren: Dr. Kara and Jamie Skjoldager; Sara and Alec Streete; and Aaron and Alexis Weatherly.
Retired District Judge David F. Gillison, Junior died peacefully at his home on October 1, 2023. He was a true southern gentleman born March 24, 1939, a lifelong resident of Lake Village, AR and had lived most recently in Little Rock, AR. He was extremely loyal to family and friends. He was predeceased by his loving wife Sandy Cook Gillison; his parents, Mildred Loyd Gillison and David F. Gillison, Sr.; and sister Diane Gillison. He is survived by his daughter Sara Gillison Logan (Chris) of Little Rock, AR; son David Loyd Gillison (Hope) of Springdale, AR; grandsons Bowen Loyd Gillison and Jaxon Burnley Gillison; step-grandson Connor Scott Logan; sister Marianne Gillison Dunn (Ronnie); cousin Stacey Gillison (Linda); several nieces and nephews; and special friend Gwen Pappas. After graduation from Lakeside High School, he attended Southwestern at Memphis (now Rhodes College) and the University of Arkansas School of Law, Fayetteville, AR. He was a proud member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and an ardent Razorback fan who thoroughly enjoyed football and tailgating. He was an avid hunter and outdoorsman. David was proud of the duration the Gillisons resided in Lake Village. Upon being admitted to the Arkansas Bar in 1963, he returned to practice law at the firm his grandfather, Judge J. C. Gillison and uncle, Jack B. Gillison established in 1903. David served his beloved community in multiple ways, always thinking of and caring for others. He worked diligently as the Lake Village District Judge for 35 years, City Attorney for 10 years and attorney for the Southeast Arkansas Levee District for 47 years. He was director of Bank of Lake Village, state vice-president of Mississippi River Flood Control Association, Memphis, TN and chairman of Lake Village Airport Commission, president of Lake Village Chamber of Commerce, owner of Gillison Abstract Company and was longtime secretary-treasurer of Island 82 Hunting Club.
Norma Jean Maddox of Nashville, a retired homemaker, died peacefully on October 3, 2023, after an extended illness. Ms. Bell, a Memphis native, graduated in 1951 from Southwestern at Memphis (currently known as Rhodes College) where she majored in music with a focus on piano. Ms. Bell taught piano in Memphis the year following her graduation. During her time at college, she met her future husband, Gus K. Bell. In 1952, the couple married and moved to Knoxville Tennessee where her husband entered a doctorial graduate program in clinical psychology at the University of Tennessee. Following his 1956 graduation, the couple moved to Nashville where they raised their three children. Ms. Bell and her husband were charter and active members of Brookmeade Congregational Church-UCC. Ms. Bell played and composed music during much of her life. She volunteered for many years in the library at Cheekwood Botanical Gardens and Museum. She and her husband traveled extensively and enjoyed ballroom dancing. Ms. Bell is survived by her daughter, Linda Bell, and granddaughter, Christina Bell, of Franklin, and her son, Jeff Bell, (Jim) of Bellingham, Washington. Ms. Bell is preceded in death by her husband; her eldest daughter, Ellen Bell; her brothers, Harry, Warren, and William Maddox; her mother, Lena Gertrude Maddox and her father, Isaac Harry Maddox.
Clay Robertson '80
Clay Darville Robertson, Age 65, of Ocala, FL died on October 16, 2023. He was born January 3, 1958 in Memphis, TN to his parents James Thomas Robertson, M.D. and Valeria Brower Robertson. He was the fourth of six children. He graduated in 1976 from Memphis University School, Memphis, TN, and in 1980 from Rhodes College, Memphis, TN, where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. Clay worked as a mortgage banker for over 20 years in Palm Springs, CA, where he had many friends and enjoyed life. He was a lifelong Presbyterian and a member of both Evergreen Presbyterian Church, Memphis, TN, and Countryside Presbyterian Church in Ocala, FL. He is survived by four of his siblings: James Thomas Robertson, Jr. of Asheville, NC (Anna), Elizabeth Robertson Morris of Olive Branch, MS (David), Roberta Robertson Beach of Nashville, TN (Clay), and Daniel Payne Robertson, M.D. of Ocala, FL (Tammie). He was predeceased by his sister Catherine Robertson Newman of Olive Branch, MS. He was a loving uncle to four nephews and eight nieces. Clay will truly be missed by his family and friends.
Lara Parker, best known for her role as the Witch Angelique Bouchard on Dark Shadows, has died.
Parker died in her sleep on Thursday morning in her Los Angeles home, her Dark Shadows costar Kathryn L. Scott confirmed on Facebook Monday. She would have been 85 years old next week.
"For more than 50 years, our lives were intertwined through our mutual love of literature, writing, and acting," wrote Scott. "We could not have been more unalike, and therein lay the magic of our enduring friendship. My thoughts are with her family in this sad time of grief and remembrance."
Parker's daughter, Caitlin Hawkins, confirmed her mother's passing in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter.
Born Mary Lamar Rickey on Oct. 27, 1938, in Knoxville, Tennessee, the actress got her start after heading to New York where she auditioned in her second-ever, professional audition, which landed her the role of Angelique in the ABC soap series.
Ahead of beginning her professional career, Parker attended Vassar College in New York, where she roomed with Jane Fonda. Then, she completed her undergraduate degree at Southwestern at Memphis, which is now Rhodes College. The native Tennessean then earned her master's degree in drama from the University of Iowa.
After she completed her education, she married her first husband, Tom Parker, with whom she shared two sons, Rick and Andy Parker. But after residing in Wisconsin with her children, she traveled to N.Y.C. to join Dan Curtis' series, Dark Shadows.
Paying Tribute to the Celebrities Who Have Died in 2023
The series aired from 1966 to 1971 and followed the founding family of the fictional Maine town, Collinsport. At the start of the series, Barnabas Collins (Jonathan Frid) rejects the advances of Parker's Angelique and the witch curses Barnabas, turning him into a vampire. After she strikes her revenge, the two engage in a centuries-long tumultuous love-hate relationship.
"We realized [the show] was popular," the actress said of the show in 2022. "Everywhere we went [the cast was] recognized. There was a huge crowd outside the [Manhattan] studio when we finished in the afternoon of autograph seekers. People would show up, the same people every single day, day after day. They worshipped some of us and would walk us to the subway."
"[Angelique] was coming in at the beginning of the women's movement and she was very independent," added Parker. During her Dark Shadows tenure, the actress later starred in a film based on the series, Night of Dark Shadows, in 1971, and the year prior starred in Hi, Mom!, a Brian De Palma film alongside Robert De Niro.
Soon after the series wrapped, she relocated to Los Angeles and continued her career on the West Coast. By 1975, she divorced her first husband and then met her second husband, Jim Hawkins, whom she married in 1980. The couple later welcomed their daughter, Caitlin, in 1985.
The actress also starred in the 1973 Oscar-winning feature, Save the Tiger, as well as Race with the Devil, alongside her old roommate's brother, Peter Fonda in 1975.
Parker also starred in several TV series, including Jessica Novak, Medical Center, Kojak, The Rockford Files, Police Woman, Kolchak: The Night Stalker and The Incredible Hulk.
More recently in 2013 and 2014, the actress joined two Doctor Mabuse films. Prior to Doctor Mabuse, she made a cameo in Tim Burton's 2012 remake, Dark Shadows, which starred Johnny Depp as Barnabas and Eva Green as Angelique.
As she continued her acting career, the performer also turned to writing and expanded the Dark Shadows universe, more than 25 years after the series wrapped. Parker first wrote Dark Shadows: Angelique's Descent in 1998, and then in 2006, 2013, and 2016, she wrote Dark Shadows: The Salem Branch, Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising, and Dark Shadows: Heiress of Collinwood, respectively.
More recently in 2013 and 2014, the actress joined two Doctor Mabuse films. Prior to Doctor Mabuse, she made a cameo in Tim Burton's 2012 remake, Dark Shadows, which starred Johnny Depp as Barnabas and Eva Green as Angelique.
As she continued her acting career, the performer also turned to writing and expanded the Dark Shadows universe, more than 25 years after the series wrapped. Parker first wrote Dark Shadows: Angelique's Descent in 1998, and then in 2006, 2013, and 2016, she wrote Dark Shadows: The Salem Branch, Dark Shadows: Wolf Moon Rising, and Dark Shadows: Heiress of Collinwood, respectively.
Parker is survived by her second husband, Jim Hawkins, her children Caitlin, Rick and Andy; her daughters-in-law Miranda and Celia, and her grandson, Wesley.
R01894912 – Jeanne Thompson Varnell '58
Jeanne Thompson Varnell, whose deep passion for education, equality, the arts, and health and wellness shaped a lifetime of purpose-driven philanthropy and civic leadership, died February 26, 2021. She was 84.
Jeanne was only 24 years old when she joined the board of the family foundation established in 1961 by her grandfather, J.R. Hyde Sr., and she actively served until its sunset in 2016. Acting on the family mantra – "to whom much is given, much is required" – she was a benefactor to numerous charitable and civic organizations. She was a board member of the National Civil Rights Museum; a founding member and trustee of the Women's Foundation for a Greater Memphis; a board member of Ballet Memphis; a board member of the Med (now Regional One Health); board chair of United Methodist Neighborhood Centers; trustee of Rust College in Holly Springs, Mississippi; a member of the Vanderbilt Divinity School Board of Advisors; and a member and first woman chair of the Board of Trustees of Lambuth University in Jackson, Tennessee.
Her philosophy of servant leadership was the guiding principle for her philanthropy and community work. In recognition of her contributions, she received the Legends Award from the Women's Foundation of Greater Memphis, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Memphis Y.W.C.A., and was one of six women in Tennessee to be honored by the Tennessee Human Rights Commission at its 50th anniversary celebration in Nashville. She also worked with many nonprofit organizations as a human relations trainer and consultant who led countless workshops aimed at building a better and just Memphis. Her compassion, sincerity, and humility inspired many to take their own places of leadership.
The underpinnings of her life were an unshakeable faith, love of family, and a sincere commitment to equality galvanized by the death of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In the wake of Dr. King's death, she was actively involved in The Memphis Panel of American Women, which attracted hostility and death threats as it focused on healing and understanding between the races. When describing the motivation for her philanthropy, she said it was aimed at "the last, the least, and the lost."
She was raised in the United Methodist Church where her experiences were enriched by her grandparents' deep faith, and as an adult, she would serve as a spiritual director helping others grow in their faith and helping guide their spiritual journeys. She and her late husband of 34 years, Henry Varnell Jr., were partners in life and philanthropy, particularly in their support for Methodist ministries. Jeanne said they were motivated by Christian values in the broad sense: "We said what we wanted to do was to make a difference in people's lives and that's what we tried to do."
Jeanne is survived by a daughter, Ruthie Bernabe (Jose) of Memphis; a son, Daly Thompson III of Sherman Oaks, California; a stepdaughter, Kay Ledbetter (Steve) of LaFayette, Georgia; a stepson, Henry Varnell III (Margaret) of Nashville; a goddaughter, Toni Dick (Quentin Heim) of Saratoga, California; 10 grandchildren, Olivia Bernabe, Jennifer Thompson, Jane Thompson, Michael Ledbetter (Kathryn Zdan), Drew Ledbetter (Andrus Nichols), Ria Martin (Colby), Henry Varnell IV (Elle), Mary Constance Little (Trent), Victoria Strain, and Meredith Strain; and four great-grandchildren, Nora Martin, Henry Varnell V, Jude Varnell, and Hudson Little. Jeanne was predeceased by her daughter, Laurence Gammon of Atlanta, and her stepdaughter, Ann Therese Strain of Memphis.
Jeanne often quoted Micah 6:8 – "What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." She answered the question affirmatively with a lifetime dedicated to others and to her God.
R01888078 – Dallas M. Covington ’60
Dallas McCarley Covington, Sr., passed away on Sunday, October 8, 2023, in Atlanta, GA. He was born on March 8, 1938, in Ripley, MS, to Roy Berry Covington, Sr., and Carrie Etta McCarley Covington. Dallas attended Rhodes College and graduated from the University of Mississippi. Dallas worked as an Economist for the Federal Government in Wage Indexes and Consumer and Producer Price Indexes. He served on the Boards for Excel Federal Credit Union and West Hills Child Development Center, as well as on numerous committees including The High Museum's Young Men's Round table, the Trinity Art Auction, founding member of the Atlanta Botanical Garden and their first Garden of Eden Ball. Dallas volunteered for many years at the gardens as a greeter and children's docent. As a 50+ year faithful member of First Presbyterian Church, he served as Stephen Minister, Deacon, Elder, and Chair of Care & Christian Growth, and was chosen for several pastoral search committees and chaired one. Dallas met his wife, Pam Wigren, while working for the Federal Government. They married on April 6, 1969, and have three sons, Dallas, Dietrich and Wilson. His four grandchildren, Sarah, Gardner, Rhodes and Hudson, gave him great joy. He loved to travel both in the US and abroad. His adventures began in college working at Old Faithful Inn in Yellowstone Park. His most memorable trip was a Russian ice breaker in the Arctic Circle searching for Polar Bears. He loved pursuing his talents in photography and gardening, and found immense joy spending time with family and friends and at Lake Burton.In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta, Children's Ministry or Pastoral Care, 1328 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30309. www.firstpresatl.org/give
R01881109 – Jane Dewey Deaton '82
Jane Louise Dewey Deaton passed away on October 10, 2023, at the age of 63, in Memphis, Tennessee. Jane was born on January 9, 1960, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Ann Tucker Dewey and Edward Robinson Dewey. Jane attended Grace-St. Luke's for middle school and church. She was a graduate of Hutchison School. Jane continued her education at Southwestern at Memphis, now Rhodes College, where she was a member of Chi Omega and completed a bachelor's degree in biology. After her education, Jane worked in research at the Memphis VA Medical Center, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and St. Jude's in Memphis. In 1983 Jane married Dr. Paul Rumble Deaton, and they subsequently had two children, Nancy Joanna Deaton and Philip Edward Deaton. Jane will be remembered for her patience, faith, and caring heart. She was a loving and active mother, spending her days hosting and interacting with the neighborhood children. A neighbor once remarked that she was the embodiment of the Pope's message to "go play with your kids." Always the first to volunteer for music recitals, field trips, and sports teams, Jane devotedly and selflessly supported her children's interests and talents. She worked tirelessly behind the scenes to lift them up. A true Memphian at heart, Jane was proud of her upbringing in midtown Memphis and spent much of her free time exploring the City's history. Jane spent time as an active member of Les Passees, receiving the Presidential Award in 2012 and the Distinguished Service Award in 2013. She loved animals, spoiling many pet dogs throughout her life, and held a deep respect for the native trees of Memphis. Jane was preceded in death by her father, Edward Dewey, and younger brother, Dr. Chapman Dewey, III. Jane is survived by her two children, Joanna and Philip Deaton, her mother Ann Dewey (Denzer), her brothers attorney Tucker Dewey and Reverend Robinson (Rob) Dewey. Family visitation will be held on Thursday, October 19th, from 5-7 p.m. at Canale Funeral Directors, located at 2700 Union Ave in Memphis. The burial service will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, October 20th, at Elmwood Cemetery at 824 South Dudley Street in Memphis. Memorials may be sent to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Les Passees. Condolences and floral tributes may be sent to Canale Funeral Home on the day of the visitation.
R01890020 – Priscilla Shumaker Heard '40
Priscilla Macon (Shumaker) Heard, 104, of Belton passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 1, 2023 at a Temple facility. Priscilla was born on August 6, 1919, in Malvern, Arkansas to Howard and Esther (Leiper) Shumaker. Her family later moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where she spent her childhood and early adult life. She always spoke fondly of her neighborhood and the many lifelong friends she made in the Evergreen/Overton Park section of Memphis. Priscilla enjoyed outdoor sports of all types, and was a talented pianist from a young age, a passion that would lead her to a nearly 70 -year career as a musician and music educator. A graduate of Rhodes College in Memphis, she earned her bachelor's degree in music and math at the age of 20 and would later receive a Master of Music degree from Baylor University. Priscilla met L.P. Heard, Jr. (Bud) at Camp Polk, Louisiana while serving in the Red Cross. In 1946, soon after World War II, they married and moved to Bud's hometown of Belton, Texas. After almost 50 years of marriage to Priscilla, Bud passed away in May of 1996 after a long illness. Beginning in the late 1940's and continuing until she retired in 2015 at the age of 96, she taught a countless number of piano students. She was also on the music faculty of Temple College from the mid 1960's until 1989. Mrs. Heard was a longtime member of the Music Teachers National Association and its state affiliate, the Texas Music Teachers Association. Priscilla was recognized as the Texas Pre-College Teacher of the Year in 1994, and as an MTNA National Foundation Fellow in 2007. This prestigious national award was bestowed on her by her peers for making an outstanding contribution to the music teaching profession. To say that Priscilla had a lasting impact on the musical lives of so many would be an understatement. Completely dedicated to her profession, she rarely said no, from setting aside time to practice and accompany many area high school musicians in the University Interscholastic League events, to helping students in need to find pianos for their homes and gain scholarships in music. Priscilla was also a very active grandmother and will be remembered by her grandchildren for the spur of the moment trips to Enchanted Rock and other state parks, and tennis matches which she won consistently. Mrs. Heard was a dedicated member of her church, serving as the organist at the First United Methodist Church in Belton from the 1950's until 1982, and later serving as organistianist at the First Presbyterian Church in Temple. She remained in this position until 2005. Priscilla is survived by her children: Mary Foote and her husband Bruce, Sarah Parker and her husband Mike, Thomas Heard, and Rachel Heard Raley and her husband Lynn. She is also survived by her four grandchildren: Chris Parker and his wife Jannell, Ben Parker and his wife Melanie, Rachel Parker Humphries and her husband Justin, and Laura Gillian Heard Raley; as well as great grandchildren Taylor Parker Keaton and her husband Joseph, Michael Parker, Gavin Humphries, Logan Parker, Parker Humphries, and Matthew Parker. She was proceeded in death by her parents, her husband Bud, and a brother Col. (ret.) George Shumaker. Memorial service will be 2 PM Monday October 16, 2023. at Grace Presbyterian Church in Temple. Visitation will follow the service. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the amazing staff that took care of Priscilla at The Wildflower Place in Temple. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to any of the following organizations: Texas Music Teachers Association Music Teachers National Association Alzheimer's Associationhttps://foundation.templejc.edu/donations/ Temple College School of Music Scholarship fund. To to the family in memory of Priscilla Macon (Shumaker) Heard, please visit our flower store .
R01893420 – Charles William Riegle, Sr. ’57
Charles William Riegle, Sr., 85, of Sarasota, and long-time member of Laurel Oak Country Club, passed away at sunrise on January 17, 2021. He died as he wished: peacefully at home, with his loving wife and children by his side.
Born in Buffalo, New York, on June 25, 1935, to Dorothy McMurray Riegle and Warren Coleman Riegle, Charles is survived by Aušra, his wife of 53 years; sons Charles W. Riegle, Jr. (Chuck), of Charlottesville, Virginia, and Christopher V. Riegle of Marblehead, Massachusetts; daughter Kristina A. Riegle of Rochester Hills, Michigan; their spouses Cynthia, Helen, and David; grandchildren Phoebe, Coleman, Evan, Oliver, and Genevieve, who knew him as “Poppy”; sister Patricia Morehead and brother-in-law Dr. William E. Morehead, of Memphis; and beloved nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews, who knew him as “Uncle Charlie.” He is already dearly missed, but his family and friends have many, many wonderful memories.
In 1942, Charles’ family moved from Bath, New York, to Memphis, Tennessee, where he completed his schooling. He served his church as head boy in the St. John’s Episcopal boys choir and his country through the Boy Scouts, the ROTC, the Army Reserve, and the Air Force Reserve medical corps. In 1967, Charles married the love of his life, Aušra Vedeckas, in New York City. Following a move from Memphis to Westport, Connecticut, the couple settled in Riverside, Connecticut, where they lived for 31 years and raised their children. In 2004, they made Sarasota their permanent home and joined Laurel Oak Country Club.
The son of an enterprising mother and a China Marine, Charles was outgoing and driven. He put himself through Southwestern at Memphis (now, Rhodes College), graduating with a Bachelor’s in Psychology in 1957. He worked as a pharmaceutical sales rep and trainer before moving to a career in advertising. In 1972, he co-founded Rolf Werner Rosenthal, Inc., an advertising agency, in New York. After growing the business into a market leader, he and his partners sold it to Ogilvy & Mather in 1983. He conducted business as he did his life: honorably and with aplomb. He was proud to have made many clients his lifelong friends.
Charles volunteered time and talent to the Greenwich Symphony Orchestra, the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich, Innis Arden Golf Club, and Christ Church Greenwich. He was an active member of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), a group dedicated to promoting patriotism and preserving American history. He held officer and committee positions across chapters in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Florida, adding countless members to their rolls. In 2019, he capped off years of genealogical research by publishing The Riegle Family in America.
While work, service, and patriotism were important to him, Charles was first and foremost a family man. He and Aušra were always together: on the golf course, at the opera, entertaining friends, and traveling the world. They made epic summer road trips to escape the Florida heat. He spared no love for his children, whom he mentored by example.
A private funeral service was held on January 22nd at the Church of the Redeemer in Sarasota, where Charles was a member. Burial will follow at a later date. Donations in his memory may be made to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, Covenant House, Tidewell Hospice, or a veterans' group of your choice or simply plant a tree.
R01887664 – John Carssow ’67
Pisgah Forest - John Timberman “Tim” Carssow, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, advisor, business partner and friend, died at home of pancreatic cancer on December 12, 2020. He was surrounded by his family.
He was born on September 26, 1944 in Ft. Worth, Texas to William Benton Carssow and Katherine Patton Carssow. He was the oldest of four children. Tim grew up in Austin, Texas and considered that his hometown. His work ethic was evident early on when he was designated Order of the Arrow as he attained the rank of Eagle Scout, the second youngest in the United States at the time. He received a letter from President Eisenhower congratulating him.
Tim graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School in Austin in 1963. He graduated from Trinity University in San Antonio in 1967 and The University of Texas School of Law in 1970, where he was Project Editor of the Texas Law Review.
Tim was a member of the U.S. Army Reserve from 1968-1974.
In July of 1970, Tim joined the Atlanta law firm then known as Kilpatrick, Cody, Rogers, McClatchey and Regenstein (now Kilpatrick, Townsend & Stockton), where he spent his entire 36 year legal career, practicing primarily in the field of commercial real estate. He became a partner in the firm in 1976, served as Chair of the firm’s real property practice for many years, and served as Managing Partner from 1996-2001. He was listed in The Best Lawyers in America. During his tenure as Managing Partner, Tim led the firm (then known as Kilpatrick and Cody) in its 1997 merger with the North Carolina firm of Petree, Stockton & Robinson, a transaction which was then the largest law firm merger in the United States, and which vaulted the firm to a status that fueled its growth into the major international law firm it is today.
Tim served the Atlanta community for decades by lending his leadership and knowledge of the law as a member of several boards and committees. He was on the Board of Directors of the Midtown Alliance and the Atlanta Economic Development Corporation, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Paideia School, the Freedom Park Conservancy, and the Fernbank Museum of Natural History. His many memberships included the American Bar Association and the American College of Real Estate Lawyers . At the time of his death he was the Chairman of the Board of Resource Housing Group, Inc., an owner/developer of affordable housing properties in the southeastern United States.
Tim will be dearly missed by his loving family: his wife of 40 years, Karen Oelrich Carssow, and their four children: Graham Timberman Carssow (Courtney), Katherine Lee Carssow, Sophie Carssow Briddock (Richard) and Henry Benton Carssow (Samantha) and his five grandchildren: Thomas Briddock, William (Billy) Briddock, Arthur Briddock, Colette Carssow, and Benton Carssow. A sixth grandchild, Sean Timberman Carssow, is due to be born in the spring of 2021. Of all his accomplishments, Tim was most proud of his children and grandchildren. Other survivors include his brothers, Jim Carssow of San Antonio, Texas, and Ben Carssow of Austin, Texas, sister Lynn Adams of Bryan, Texas, and many cousins, nephews and a niece.
Tim did not truly retire. In 2012 he and Karen moved from Atlanta to a farm in Pisgah Forest, NC. It was a dream come true for Karen, and Tim joined in that dream. They built a home which became the center for many happy family gatherings. His office window looked out over the green hills and in it he managed various commercial real estate interests while she tended the gardens and animals. For the rest of his life, Tim continued to be a trusted and valued advisor in business and financial affairs to his immediate and extended family, friends, partners and institutions.
Tim enjoyed working more than playing, but he was a lifelong avid fisherman. He took a yearly week-long hunting and fishing trip to Montana, and he also fished in New Zealand and Alaska. He loved to hike the forest trails of North Carolina. He read many books about history and current events on the screened porch. He loved the Atlanta Braves, Rye Whiskey, peanuts and playing Free Cell. In typical fashion, he would challenge himself to win 100 games in a row. He almost always did.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the Cindy Platt Boys and Girls Club in Brevard NC, or Four Seasons Hospice.
Due to COVID, the memorial service will be delayed until spring.
Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com
Moody-Connolly Funeral Home and Crematory are caring for the family.
R01888761 – Frances DeRossitt Edens ’58
One of Okolona's most revered and beloved citizens, Frances DeRossitt Edens, departed this life from NMMC-Gilmore Hospital in Amory on October 25, 2023 surrounded by her family. She was 88. A longtime resident of Okolona, Frances was born in Memphis, Tennessee on October 24, 1935, the daughter of the late Louise Alderson DeRossitt and James Prentice DeRossitt of Forrest City, Arkansas.
Frances grew up in Forrest City, Ark, attended Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri. and later attended Rhodes College in Memphis. She married James Edward Edens, III on December 27, 1954, a marriage of 55 years until his death on December 1, 2009. To this union was born 4 sons whom their mother loved dearly. Frances was a lifelong Presbyterian, active in the Okolona Presbyterian Church and thoroughly enjoyed being with family and friends. She was a longtime supporter and helpmate in the family business, Edens Cattle Farms and owned and managed Edens Antiques in Okolona for 35 years, a popular venue for antique lovers. She was a member of DAR and Colonial Dames XVII Charter.
A service celebrating her life will be held at 3 PM Sunday, October 29, 2023 at Okolona Presbyterian Church with Rev. Ted Wardlaw officiating. Randi Kathryn Edens will provide the music. A private family burial will follow in the Edens family plot at Oddfellows Cemetery in Okolona. Visitation will begin a 1 PM and continue until service time, all at Okolona Presbyterian Church, 400 West Main, Okolona, MS. 38860. Holland Funeral Directors-Okolona Chapel is honored to be serving their friends.
She was mother to four sons, James Edward Edens, IV (Christy), Frank DeRossitt Edens (Teresa), John Frazee Edens (Rosemary), and Lee Alderson Edens (Sandra). Gaga or Granny as the grand's affectionately knew her is survived by her beloved grandchildren, Chloe Edens Crane, James Edward "Jim" Edens V, William Robert "Bob" Edens, Frank DeRossitt "Beau" Edens Jr., Justin Darnell Edens, James Edward "Jack" Edens, Ashley Elizabeth Webb, Jennifer Edens White, Megan Edens Latimer, Deidra Eva Dedeaux, Catherine Frances Farrar, and Lee Barrett Edens. She was the Great Grandmother of 17 grandchildren, Eva Claire Abney, Kaebre Laine Edens, Mason McKaleb Jones, Rivers Eden Farrar, Camden Jones, Caroline Frances Latimer, James Shepard Latimer, Edens Estelle Crane, Trace Alderson Farrar, Madelynn Alicia "Maddie" Edens, Henley Hope Edens, Annabel Mae White, Johnny Lee "Jett" Crane IV, Asher Crue Edens, Asa Wilder Edens, Ollie Calvert Edens, and Swayze Kathryn Edens. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Edward Edens, III, her parents, and 4 siblings.
Pallbearers are Frank DeRossitt "Beau" Edens, Jr, Justin Darnell Edens, Lee Barrett Edens, James Edward "Jack" Edens, James Edward "Jim" Edens, V, Russell Farrar, Ty Crane, and Brandt Latimer.
Condolences may be emailed to hollandfuneraldirectors@comcast.net.
R01893089 – William K.B. 'Bill' Potts, III ’63
Potts, William K.B., III "Bill" 82, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, passed away suddenly and peacefully on September 24, 2023, in Denver, Colorado. Known for his bright smile, generous spirit, sharp intelligence, and head full of dreams, Bill never lost the happiness that bubbled up in him, the irrepressible joy of being alive, the love of being with family and friends. Bill was born in Mobile, Alabama, on September 6, 1941. His parents were William K.B. Potts Jr. and Doris Rinker Potts (both deceased). He lived with his family in the Dominican Republic for 3 years, attending middle school there and learning Spanish, a language he spoke throughout his life. He returned to the U.S. for high school, graduating from University Military School in Mobile. He then attended and graduated from Rhodes College in Memphis, where he was elected into the Hall of Fame, ODK, served as president of Kappa Sigma, received the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, and ran track. He graduated from the American Institute for Foreign Trade in Phoenix (now Thunderbird Graduate School of International Management). He married his college sweetheart Frances Phillips in 1965. Bill had a 38-year career in International Marketing for Thermo King Corporation (now Trane Technology) in Minneapolis. He traveled the world working with mobile refrigeration for trucks and air conditioning for buses. He believed these products made the world a better place by preserving food and letting workers have a cool ride to work. He was a lifelong Presbyterian and served as an elder at Presbyterian Church of the Apostles in Burnsville, Minnesota. He was a gourmet cook, avid gardener, and talented woodworker. He had many friends across the country and around the world, and will be greatly missed. Bill is survived by his beloved wife Frances Phillips Potts, three children: Catherine (Dane) Watkins, Rebecca (Mark) Murphy, Mary Anne (Ben Clark) Potts. Five grandchildren are Dane Watkins, Eliza and Maeve Murphy, Scarlett and Charlie Clark. Brother John (Sherry) Potts and sister Nancy Hitchins. Preceded in death by sister Deborah Quanaim and her husband Jose. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Portage, Michigan. Visitation at 1 pm, Service at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Ministry With Community, P.O. Box 51777, Kalamazoo MI 49005, or to the charity of your choice.
R05280902 – Erik Davis '10
Erik Allen Davis of Gibson Island, Maryland passed away on October 22, 2023.
Erik was born to his parents, Susan and Randy Davis on April 18, 1988 in Baltimore, Maryland. He attended Gilman School, graduating in 2006. He received a Bachelor’s in History from Rhodes College in 2010.
Erik grew up on Gibson Island and had an idyllic childhood, playing and making minor trouble with his best friends. He moved to Baltimore for his formative educational years and attended Gilman School. At Gilman, he found a group of lifelong friends and a new love and interest in history. He attended Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee where he graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in History. He was a member of the Phi Alpha Theta History Honor Society inducted in 2009. He was the Marshal and Lieutenant Commander of the Epsilon Sigma Chapter of the Sigma Nu Fraternity at Rhodes. There through many adventures he found new brothers and forever friends. He was a proud Marylander, who knew a surprising amount of Maryland “fun” facts and trivia. He enjoyed destroying his friends with a mischievous chuckle at strategic games, both in person and on the computer. As an opponent, his forethought and wit were both delightful and maddening. He was a longtime board member of the Gibson Island Historical Society and enjoyed participating on other boards and in many activities, donating his time to the people and the place he loved so much. Above all things, he was a dedicated son, brother, uncle, godfather and friend.
His mother, Susan Davis preceded him in death.
He is survived by his father, Randy F. Davis of Gibson Island, Maryland; his sister, Meredith Davis of Brooklyn, New York; his “brother”, Eric Mauro of Brooklyn, New York; his aunt and uncle, Sally and Dale Nelson of Oronoco, Minnesota; his cousins, Chelsey Klapperich of East Bethel, MN and Rachel Anderson and her son, Hayden Anderson of Grand Forks, North Dakota and his eight beloved godchildren.
Erik was a true gentleman in his actions, words and deeds. He loved his family and friends loyally and fiercely. If you were his friend then you were lucky enough to know the sound of his giggle and what it meant to be loved by him.
A memorial service will be held on November 19th, at 11:00 a.m. at the Gibson Island Club, Gibson Island, Maryland.
In lieu of gifts to the family, please make a donation to one of the following charities:
Oyster Recovery Partnership: https://app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/OysterRecoveryPartnership/donate.html
The Trevor Project: https://give.thetrevorproject.org/give/63307/#!/donation/checkout
National Alliance on Mental Illness:https://www.nami.org/Home
R00050644 – Diane Dice (staff – former)
Diane Dillard Dice, 88, died Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, following a brief illness. She is survived by her daughter, Carol (Kevin) Temple; her son, Paul Dice; and her grandsons, Collin Dice and Casey Temple. She is preceded in death by her husband, Harvey Dice. She was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, and was the daughter of Rhodes and Selma (Herrington) Dillard. She was a periodicals librarian at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee.
R01892044 – Jane Mando Meeks '68
Jane Mando Meeks was Born May 26, 1946, in Mocksville, NC, and died Friday, October 13, 2023, at home at Givens Estates in Asheville, NC. She was preceded in death by her parents, D.J. (Nick) and Ethel Ledford Mando of Mocksville, NC. Family surviving her include her husband of fifty-four years, Kenyon G. Meeks, Jr. of Asheville, NC; two sons, Joshua Meeks of Gastonia, NC, and Ian Meeks (Cameron) of Waynesville, NC; two grandchildren, Richard and Naomi of Gastonia, NC; one brother, Joe Mando (Evelyn) of Mocksville, NC; two nieces, Christy (David) Tandy of Deerfield Beach, Fl., Jenny Mando (Rob) of Cary. NC; and six cousins, Susan Duncan (Bruce) of Hobe Sound, Fl., Larry Ledford of Cudjoe Key, Fl., Katie Lineback (Neal) of Bermuda Run, NC, Rufus Moretz (Mary) of Hickory, NC, Betty Smolansky (Oles), of Bethlehem, Pa., Adrian Stanley of Wilmington, NC, and a second cousin Kittie McKeithan of Asheville, NC. Jane graduated from Davie County High School in 1964 and Southwestern at Memphis (now Rhodes College) in 1968, where she was recognized in the Hall of Fame. She received her Master's degree in School Counseling from The University of North Carolina in Charlotte in 1986. As a teacher and elementary school counselor for twenty-eight years, she served in various communities in Louisiana, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia as she moved with her husband, a pastor in the Presbyterian Church, U.S.A. As a parent she was always loving and supportive to two unique sons (even when it was challenging) and was proud of their friends who became like extended family. She loved working with children of all backgrounds and family situations. After she lost her vision in 2009 due to macular degeneration, her favorite reply to children who asked if she could see them was, "I can't see you, but I always know what you're doing!" As a minister's wife, she was always her own person, even as she practiced a deep personal faith. She was always involved in the churches her husband served, most notable authoring original children's stories that were shared as a part of the annual Christmas Eve Communion Service. Jane published one children's book, entitled "Finding Home," a story about two shelter dogs she and her husband adopted. A Service of Witness to the Resurrection is scheduled for Saturday, November 4, 2023, at 2 o'clock in the afternoon in Norma F. Pulliam Chapel at Givens Estates, 2360 Sweeten Creek Rd, Asheville, NC. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to New Hope Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 1346, Skyland, N.C. 28776, or St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, P.O, Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101-9929. Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family and a guest register is available online at www.grocefuneralhome.com.
R01894574 – Van P. Taylor ’75
Van Philpot Taylor was born on September 26, 1951 in Memphis, TN to Marjorie and Arthur Taylor, Jr. Van studied at North Panola High School, where he was active in student government, basketball, football and track. Then he transferred to Marion Institute in Alabama. After graduation, he was accepted into Mississippi State University and pledged SAE and there he studied biology before transferring to Southwestern (Rhodes) College where he was the recipient of a Bachelors in Science. He spent many childhood summers at one of his favorite places, Lookout Mountain Camp for Boys in Mentone, Ala. Van returned to become a counselor there where he taught swimming, tennis, and other sports. He was an advanced carver of wood, an artist, and he completed hundreds of bowls for people in his community, mostly cousins and very special people received his hand carved bowls. Van was proud of his work but also humble about the amount of money people wanted to pay him, always thinking people wanted to pay him too much. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Dr. Van Buren Philpot (Lois) from Holly Springs, MS; paternal grandparents, Arthur Taylor (Corrinne) of Como, MS; a nephew, Arthur Taylor Boyd of Columbia, SC. Survivors include his siblings, Dr. Art Taylor of Winston-Salem, NC, Lee Taylor Boyd of Columbia, SC, Kenneth Taylor, of MS; many cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Sledge Taylor for providing pastures for his horses. Van wanted to thank Como Methodist Church for their continued prayers and for sending so many messages and cards to him. Van has much appreciation to Bobby and Mary Lipscomb for the many gestures of help throughout his lifetime and during his sickness. I'm pretty sure that Mary Lipscomb spent hundreds of hours in Whole Foods in Memphis with Van searching for organic or other odd food items. The family would also like to thank the PRISMA PACE Program and Cooper Wall for his unwavering support to Van and Lee during this time. A service will be held 11:00 am Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at Como Methodist Church in Como, MS. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the PRISMA PACE Program, 1100 Shirley St, Columbia, SC 29205 or to Como Methodist Church, 101 N Main St, Como, MS, 38619. Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, Columbia, S.C., assisted the family. Memories may be shared atwww.dunbarfunerals.com.
R01888742 – Dorritte Evans Early ’64
Dorritte Evans Early, a lifelong resident of Memphis, died peacefully on Monday, November 20, 2023, after a long illness. She was 81. Dorritte was born on September 4, 1942, to the late Dr. J.D. Evans and Mickey Evans. She attended the Hutchison School, where she made friends, she cherished the rest of her life. She attended Hollins College and Rhodes College and was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority. When Dorritte was only 10, she started walking by herself to attend St. John's Episcopal Church on Sunday mornings, where she became a faithful and active member, and eventually a Sunday school teacher, member of the Vestry, volunteer, search committee member, and served on the Altar Guild and Flower Guild. She always put God first, family and friends second, and others third; she thought of herself last. When Dorritte wasn't volunteering somewhere, attending her sewing circle or Bible study, she was likely delivering flowers or a meal to someone in need. Her propensity to care for others wasn't limited to people. Dorritte loved animals of all kinds, including lots of strays and even had a pet squirrel named Willie. Dorritte was President of the Junior League of Memphis and an active member of Daughters of the King, the Hutchison Alumnae Board, and the Memphis Country Club. She loved participating in Carnival Memphis and cheering on lots of sports teams, especially the Memphis Tigers. She attended every game, recital, performance, and school event that involved her children and never missed an opportunity to spend time with her grandchildren. She planned her year around hosting holiday lunches and annual family beach vacations. Dorritte was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, George Goodloe Early, Jr., whom she started dating and dancing with at age 13. She was also preceded in death by her brother, John Sidney Evans. She is survived by her three children, George Goodloe Early, III (Karen), Lloyd Early Smith (Donald) of Monroe, Louisiana, and Marion Early Spargo (Mike) of Charlotte, North Carolina. She also leaves 5 beloved grandchildren: Georgia Smith, Natalie Smith, Kate Early, Luke Early and Whitley Spargo as well as a cherished sister-in-law and friend, Marsha Evans. The family will receive visitors on Monday, November 27, in the St. John's Episcopal Church Parish Hall from 4-6 pm. A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, November 28, at 11:00 am at St. John's Episcopal Church. A private family burial will be in St. John's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. John's Episcopal Church, Memphis, or to your local animal shelter. In honor of Dorritte, please remember those who are alone or working this holiday season. She would have invited them to lunch or brought them brownies to let them know they are loved.
R01893251 – Dr. Richard “Rich” Raspet ’69
Dr. Richard "Rich" Raspet, 76, passed away on Thursday, November 2, 2023, in Oxford, Mississippi. A memorial service will be held Sunday, January 21, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Coleman Funeral Home of Oxford (601 Commerce Pkwy., Oxford, Mississippi 38655). Visitation will follow at Coleman Funeral Home of Oxford. Coleman Funeral Home of Oxford is in charge of arrangements. Whatever pursuit he was involved in, be it research, teaching, bicycling, volunteer animal rescue, environmental preservation, competitive running, building model planes or a myriad of other interests, Rich was widely known, admired, loved and respected for his unwavering focus and commitment, awe-inspiring consistency, joy, and kindness. If Rich said he was going to do something, you could count on it, he would not let you down. Regardless of any weather, Rich always showed up. Rich always showed up for everything. And he was never late. Rich was born in upstate New York, and as a child moved with his family to the campus of Mississippi State University in Starkville where he attended Starkville public schools. At Rhodes College, Memphis Tennessee, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree with distinction, and then went on to earn his Doctorate in Physics from the University of Mississippi in Oxford. Soon after, Rich accepted a position as Physicist in the Environmental Division of The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL) in Champaign Illinois. It was there he met co-worker and his future wife Wendy. Rich and Wendy married in Urbana Illinois in 1983, and embarked on a life together that would span the next forty years filled with shared love of nature, scientific inquiry, music, rescue dogs, friends, support of important causes, and every day wonders. In 1987 Rich joined the faculty of the Physics Department of the University of Mississippi in Oxford as an Associate Professor, eventually becoming full professor. His academic home on campus was the University's National Center for Physical Acoustics (NCPA). In recognition of his research, teaching, and service accomplishments, Rich was awarded the honor of Distinguished Faculty Fellow in the College of Liberal Arts, in 2007. His main area of research was investigation of how sound travels, and how to accurately measure sound. Rich's scientific contributions in acoustics were vast, with publications on topics ranging from atomic nuclei, to aircraft sonic booms, and atmospheric turbulence. His work has applications in fields from national defense to weather prediction to the study of animal behavior. He continued to conduct research and mentor students as an Emeritus Professor until his passing. He was a fellow of the Acoustical Society of America. Rich was an avid, decorated, and devoted cyclist with over 100 career victories to his name, multiple state-level and regional championships, multiple national Best AllAround Rider awards, and he was a Masters National Champion. He thrived on the competition and camaraderie of the cycling world. He was a true advocate for cycling and was infinitely influential with his patience, generosity, and wisdom when it came to developing those new to or interested in the sport of which there were many. At the peak of his racing career, he covered 10,000 miles a year on his bicycle. Rich was a key member and left an indelible mark on each of the most successful amateur teams that have existed in the southeast including the elite Herring Gas Cycling team. He frequently supported charity rides across the states of Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, and Tennessee, but Rich was always most comfortable riding his beautiful, rural home roads in Lafayette County, Mississippi. With a tender heart, Rich was devoted to saving any creature in need. He was known for stopping high speed bike rides to help turtles cross the road, including snapping turtles. He once circled back to free an owl that had been caught in a barbed wire fence. In semi-retirement, Rich worked as a volunteer with a network of local animal rescue groups. He drove abandoned, injured and stray cats and dogs to other states, where they were welcomed into their forever homes. At the time of his passing he had just purchased and outfitted a van for this endeavor. He worked throughout his life to preserve nature and its beauty, a passion he shared with Wendy. Together, they turned their 100 acres of land in Oxford into a private nature preserve through a conservation easement with The Nature Conservancy of Mississippi. Although it was too soon for those who loved him, Rich died as he would have wished, while riding his bike. He died of natural causes. Dr. Raspet is survived by his wife Wendy; his sister, Jan, and her husband, Jack; his brother, David, and his wife, Janet; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, greatnephews, and extended family members. Dr. Raspet was preceded in death by his parents, August Raspet and Mabel Raspet. Donations and memorials to honor Dr. Richard "Rich" Raspet may be made to Ol' Hank's Place Senior Dog Rescue https://olhanksplace.org/ Online condolences may be left on his Tribute Wall at www.colemanfuneralhome.com.
R05403048 – Samuel R. Crouch, Jr. ’65
Samuel Ray Crouch, Jr. passed away on Tuesday, November, 14, 2023, after a courageous battle with Parkinson's Disease. The son of Raymond and Jacquelyn Crouch, both deceased, Ray was a lifelong Memphian until his retirement to Lake Sidney Lanier, Georgia, in 2014. A graduate of Christian Brothers High School, he attended Southwestern at Memphis and graduated from the University of Memphis. After attending Officer Training School, where he earned Distinguished Graduate honors, he served 4 years as Materiel Officer attached to the 4th Tactical Fighter Wing. He worked for over 20 years as an accountant and Controller, primarily as Holiday Inn Hotel Group Assistant Controller. He later opened a Mail Boxes Etc. franchise (now The UPS Store) which he owned and operated until his retirement. He is survived by his wife Catherine, of Dawsonville, GA, a sister, Sharon C. Miller (Bob) of Oakland, TN, two daughters, Sharon C. Brummer (Steve), and Karen C. Fishman, all of Lake Lanier, GA, two grandchildren, Elaine Boone and Nathan Fishman, and a stepson, Michael Ellis (Julie) of Houston, TX.A memorial service will be held in Memphis in early 2024. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, or The United Nations Foundation's United to Beat Malaria campaign (formerly Nothing But Nets).Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.neptunesociety.com/location/atlanta-cremation for the Crouch family.
R05143839 – Dimitri Douklias '07
Dimitri was born in Memphis, Tennessee on March 12, 1984, and passed away at home on Thursday, November 16, 2023. The family will receive friends on Friday, November 24, 2023 at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church (537 N Highland St., Memphis, TN) from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. A Trisagon Service will be held following services at 12:00 p.m. Dimitri graduated from CBHS in 2002 and continued his education at Rhodes College where he graduated with a degree in Economics in 2007. He is survived by his daughter, Georgia Elise Douklias of Memphis, Tennessee; his parents, Vasilios and Georgia Douklias of Fisherville, Tennessee; his sister, Angela (Shane) Williams of Arlington, Tennessee; his grandmothers, Kiki Douklias of Norfolk, Virginia, and Bessie Kolapanas of Lakeland, Tennessee. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. May His Memory Be Eternal! Brent Taylor Paul B. McCarver Funeral Directors are honored to be serving the Douklias family during this time. Online condolences may be left to his Tribute Wall at www.brenttaylorfuneraldirectors.com
R01886971 – Dr. Suzanne Carter Bjick '56
Suzanne Bjick, Ph.D. passed away peacefully at her home on October 30, 2023. Suzanne (Sue) was born in New Orleans and raised in the small town of Laurel, MS. She left home at the young age of sixteen to pursue a degree at Southwestern at Memphis (now Rhodes College). While at college, she acted on her belief in racial equality by mounting an effort to establish a connection between the students at Southwestern and the students at a small Memphis HBCU. Upon graduating with a BA in English in 1956, Sue attended graduate school at Yale University where she majored in Christian Ethics in the Yale Divinity School and was mentored by renowned theologian Richard Niebuhr. After completing her degree at Yale, Sue enrolled in a chaplaincy program at a mental health hospital in Elgin, Illinois, where she developed a passion for counseling. While in Elgin, Sue met her future husband and life partner, Ron Bjick. After Sue and Ron married, they started a family. During this time Sue taught kindergarten, and taught in the nation's first Headstart program. After moving the family to Texas and New Jersey, they settled in Apalachin, NY. Sue then pursued a doctoral degree in psychology at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. After years of commuting to Philadelphia, she was awarded a Ph.D. in 1985. During her time at Temple, she began her work, and longtime aspiration, as a psychotherapist. Sue maintained her practice in psychotherapy for 39 years until she retired in 2017 due to declining health. During her long career as a therapist, she took great joy from this opportunity to help many valued clients on their path to better mental health and life satisfaction. Sue also served the community as a board member of the SOS Shelter and as an officer and Chair of the Binghamton University Harper Forum. Her joys included hiking, book club, yoga and meditation. Sue was adept at finding the very best mentors and teachers in pursuit of personal as well as professional development. Sue is survived by her loving husband of fifty-nine years, Ron Bjick and by daughters Sarah Klinko (Richard) of Endicott and Elizabeth Larsen (John R.) of Swarthmore PA and by four grandchildren and one great-grandson. She is also survived by her sister Nancy Burnidge of Elgin IL and family. Donations in her memory may be made to the Community Foundation for South Central New York or to The Environmental Defense Fund.
R01891413 – Virginia Bramlett Lowrance ’54
Virginia Bramlett Lowrance passed away November 21, 2023. Born in 1932 in Clarksdale, MS, she was the daughter of Leon Crow Bramlett and Elizabeth Jones Bramlett. She graduated from Clarksdale High School as valedictorian in 1950, attended Sweet Briar College, and attended Rhodes College where she was a member of Chi Omega sorority. She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Charles Joseph Lowrance III, her brother, Leon C. Bramlett Jr., and her sister, Elizabeth Bramlett Luster. She is survived by her two children, Virginia Lowrance Neblett and Charles Joseph Lowrance IV, six grandchildren, William Joe Denton III, Virginia Tayloe Denton, Thomas Fair Neblett, Caroline Lowrance Moler, Charles Joseph Lowrance V, and William Tate Lowrance, and five great-grandchildren, William Joe Denton IV, Bramlett Allen Neblett, Ann Elisabeth Neblett, Nora Thomas Neblett, and Brooks Carlisle Moler. Through the years she was an active member of several local organizations and clubs including Memphis Garden Club, Memphis Country Club, and Memphis Hunt and Polo Club. Visitation will be Monday November 27, 2023, from 12pm to 2pm at St. John's Episcopal Church Parish Hall. A family graveside service will be held at St. John's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family requests that any memorials be sent to a charity of the donor's choice.
R01890684 – Carolyn Anne Underwood Johnson ’59
On December 3, 2023, Carolyn Anne Underwood Johnson, age 86, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her family. Anne was born May 20, 1937, in Greenwood, Mississippi to Carrie Wolfe Underwood and Gentry Underwood. The family eventually moved to Oak Ridge, TN, where they were founding members of the city, where her father worked at Oak Ridge National Laboratory as part of the Manhattan Project for which he received a citation from Henry L. Stimson, President Roosevelt's Secretary of War following the first successful testing of the atomic bomb in August 1945. Anne was in the first class to go through all grades at Oak Ridge High School where she was an outstanding athlete, especially in tennis, golf, and softball. She was an accomplished pianist and played with the Oak Ridge Symphony Orchestra often. Following high school, she attended Southwestern at Memphis College, now known as Rhodes College, in Memphis, Tennessee. Anne majored in Philosophy (abandoning pre-med after encountering Organic Chemistry) and was crowned Homecoming Queen her senior year. After graduation, Anne moved home to Oak Ridge to start her career at University of Tennessee Agricultural College Research Station. It was in Oak Ridge, TN where she met her husband of 62 years, Bob. They were married September 30, 1961, at St. Stephens Episcopal Church in Oak Ridge, TN. After relocating to Houston, TX, followed by Bethesda and Baltimore, MD so that her husband could complete his medical training, they settled in Augusta, GA in 1973 with their three young daughters. Anne was an avid golfer, having won several tournaments in golf (as well as tennis) a golf course rater, a member of the Board of Trustees-Pendleton King Park and was a Master Gardner. In Augusta, Bob and Anne found their Church home in Church of the Good Sheperd where Anne was an Altar Guild member for many years. Anne is survived by her husband, Dr. Robert Harvey Johnson, Jr., daughters Kristin Gail Johnson, Teresa Johnson Seward (William Henry Seward, Jr. "Hank"), Courtnay Johnson Capps (Stephen Brian Capps), and grandchildren, William Henry Seward III "Billy", Robert Carter Seward (Katie), Caroline Morgan Capps, Anne Carter Capps, as well as a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, and numerous nieces and nephews. Following a private service at Church of the Good Shepherd in Augusta, GA, on December 7, 2023, interment will be at Westover Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Church of the Good Shepherd, 2230 Walton Way, Augusta, Georgia 30904. Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please at www.thomaspoteet.com
R00050154 – JoAnn Haley (staff-former)
JoAnn Wells Haley was born June 26, 1933, in Benton, Arkansas, the third of four children born to Jody and Birdie Wells. As a child she was eager to please her parents and teachers as was a diligent student. She excelled in Math and graduated with honors from Benton High School. After completing high school and a season of government employment in Washing, D.C., she returned to Benton to marry Stanley Rhea Haley. JoAnn's exceptional math and organizational skills resulted in a successful book-keeping and accounting career, which culminated in her twenty-five-year tenure at Rhodes College, where she managed the accounting department. After her "official" retirement from Rhodes, she continued to serve in a book-keeping capacity in ministry and church environments for many years. As much as she thrived in the work environment, her greatest satisfaction was related to her family, home and church. While she might be known for her savory cooking, tasteful decorating and classy dressing, she was just as proficient at baiting a hook and reciting football stats. (Go Hogs!) Many friends and family are left to reflect on these sweet memories. JoAnn is survived by daughter, Stephanie Haley Triplett (Buddy) of Alpharetta, Georgia and son, Kevin Haley (Georgia Anne) of Eads, TN. JoAnn, A.K.A. "Mama Jo", G Jo" and "M.J." will be solely missed by grandchildren, Leslianne Haley Newberry (Tyler) of Houston, TX, Kristen Triplett Gideon (David) of Alpharetta, GA, and Hunter Haley of Memphis, TN as well as great grands, Tori and Dove Gideon and Aevyn, Stone and Banner Newberry. JoAnn's family would like to express their gratefulness to the staff of NHC, Somerville, TN, and Crossroads Care, Memphis, TN for the excellent care they have provided for her.
R05201172 – T. Neal Cordell (staff-former)
Coach Neal Cordell passed away at the age of 80 on November 24, 2023, after a sudden illness. He was a 1961 graduate of Southside High School where he was an All-Memphis guard on the football team. He attended Memphis State University, lettering 4 years in baseball. After graduating, he began his coaching career at Kingsbury High School. His lifelong dream was to coach. He also taught and coached at Messick and Ridgeway High Schools. Throughout his life, he continued to play, coach and umpire numerous sports in and around the Memphis area. He opened the Peabody Health Club in the early 1980s which is where he met the rock band ZZ Top while they were recording an album. He was most proud of being chosen by them to be their personal trainer and bodyguard on their Afterburner World Tour in 1986. He later went on to teach Health and Wellness at Southwest TN Community College for over 10 years. Over several decades, he was a personal trainer and he also served as head softball coach at Rhodes College and a volunteer coach at Christ Methodist, Cordova, White Station, ECS, Southaven Illusions Fastpitch Travel Team, USA Baseball, and numerous others. As a coach, he touched many lives and made a huge impact on dozens of his students and players. His dedication to fitness, coaching and teaching will not be forgotten. He will be greatly missed by his Southside Scrapper classmates, former students and players, his family and close friends. Neal leaves behind his wife of 40 years, Linda, their daughter Lindsay and their grandchildren Hayley and Liam. He also leaves behind daughters' Jill and his granddaughters' Madison and Paige, Gina and his grandson Ellis, and Kim and his grandson Collin. He also leaves behind his sisters Conni and Carol. If there is one thing Neal would want to everyone to remember it is to never quit, always get up and remember each day is a new day. There are no services planned at this time, but please continue to check back here for updates.
R01884211 – Eric P. Cifreo ’93
Eric Preston Cifreo passed away peacefully after a short illness on Friday November 10, 2023 at St David's Hospital in Roundrock (Austin), Texas at the age of 52 years. Eric lived in the Austin area for the last thirty years, but he grew up locally where he attended St Benilde School in Metairie and Jesuit High School in New Orleans. Eric attended undergraduate school at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee and graduate school at the University of Texas in Austin. Eric pursued his career in software in Austin where he married and raised a family of three daughters. Eric loved sports especially the New Orleans Saints, gardening, and cooking. Eric loved to prepare gourmet meals for family and friends. Eric is survived by his wife Amy Cifreo and three daughters, Madison, Lucy and Chloe Cifreo as well as by many other family members in Austin. Eric is also survived by his parents, Gloria and Preston Cifreo of Metairie; his brothers Craig Cifreo and Paul Cifreo (Lindsay) of Metairie and his sister Allison Cifreo DeVun (Drew) of McKinney, Texas. He is also survived by a nephew, several nieces, aunts, uncles, and cousins. A celebration of life memorial service was held for Eric in Austin, Texas on Saturday November 18, 2023, for his family and friends there. A memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at St Benilde Catholic Church in Metairie at 11:00 am, with visitation in the church between 9:30 am and 10:45 am. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his name to the St Benilde Fund, 1901 Division Street, Metairie, Louisiana 70001.
R01887459 – Rebecca “Bede” Beasley Burr ’54
Rebecca Beasley "Bede" Burr, 91, of Memphis died peacefully at home on November 30, 2023 surrounded by her three daughters. Rebecca Treadwell Beasley was born on April 1, 1932, to the late Ruth Allen Beasley and A.C. Treadwell Beasley of Germantown, Tennessee. Bede graduated from Miss Hutchison's School, attended Mary Baldwin College and graduated from Southwestern College (Rhodes) where she was president of Chi Omega sorority. She went on to teach elementary school in Bremerton, Washington, and at both Miss Hutchison's School (Hutchison) and St. Mary's Episcopal School in Memphis. Bede had a quiet wit and a loving, giving spirit. She was deeply engaged in the community. She was devoted to the mission of The Mary Galloway Home for women where she served multiple terms as president of the governing board. She was a faithful member of Idlewild Presbyterian Church and particularly enjoyed her participation in the Abigail Circle of Presbyterian Women. Bede was a dedicated member of the Junior League of Memphis. One of Bede's greatest pleasures was meeting monthly with a close group of cherished high school friends in their Sewing Club. Above all else, Bede treasured her family and valued her time spent with them. Bede was married in 1956 to the late Griffith Corbin Burr, Jr., until his death in 2013. Bede and Griff were passionate about the outdoors. They frequently spent time in Arkansas fishing at Bear Creek Lake and on the coast of Florida playing with children and grandchildren in Perdido Key and shell hunting on St. George Island. They enjoyed tennis and gardening and volunteered regularly at The Lichterman Nature Center in Memphis. Bede and Griff continued their love and support of education by tutoring children at Idlewild Elementary School. In addition to her parents and husband, Bede was predeceased by her twin sister, Ruth B. "Wootie" West, and older sister, June B. Mann. She is survived by her three daughters, Rebecca Bigler (Juan Gonzalez), Kathryn McGehee Erb (Bayard), and Allison Taylor (Todd). She is also survived by eight grandchildren whom she adored, Gray Bigler (Laura), Marika Bigler, Griffith Bigler (Marine), Corbin McGehee, Rebecca McGehee, Megan McGehee, Katie Taylor, and Will Taylor, as well as two recent great-grandchildren, Millie Bigler and Charline Bigler. Longtime family friend, Willie McCalleum, lovingly cared for Bede for many years and was subsequently joined in that mission by his wife Ann McCalleum and his sister Evelyn. Catherine White completed the core group of valued and dedicated companions and caregivers. The family will be forever grateful for everyone who provided care including Dominiec, Sondra, Shirley, and others. Services will be held on Monday, December 18, 2023. There will be a graveside service at Elmwood Cemetery at 12:30 pm. The memorial service will be held at Idlewild Presbyterian Church at 2 pm, followed by a reception at the church. Memorials may be sent to Idlewild Presbyterian Church or a charity of the donor's choice.
R01893407 – Ellen Reagan Richardson ’58
Ellen Reagan Richardson, age 86, of Memphis, died December 10, 2023. Ellen was born October 19, 1937, to her parents Woodrow Wilson Reagan and Louise Taylor Reagan. Her early childhood was greatly influenced by events of World War II, when her family moved to Edgewood Arsenal near Baltimore where her father, an Army officer, served in the war effort. She began public school when she, her mother and brother, Morris, moved to Hazlehurst, Mississippi in order to live with her maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Taylor. Mr. Taylor, her grandfather, was publisher of the Hazlehurst Courier, the local weekly newspaper. During high school, Ellen was active in water sports and was an accomplished diver. She played the flute in the high school band and greatly enjoyed the many activities of the Presbyterian Youth Fellowship. She was known as a creative seamstress, even sewing her younger sister's dresses for high school celebrations. Upon graduation from Hazlehurst High School, Ellen attended Southwestern at Memphis, now known as Rhodes College. While at Rhodes, Ellen enjoyed participating in activities of her sorority, Delta Delta Delta, and although she obtained her degree in chemistry, she would point out that her favorite classes were those in modern dance. Rhodes is responsible for more than Ellen's education, for it was there that she met the love of her life, Thomas Edward Richardson, affectionately known as "Tommy." Ellen hastened to complete college in 3 years so that she could marry Tommy, who had been drafted after he graduated college and was then stationed in what was West Germany. After a flamboyant bon voyage wedding shower, Ellen flew to Europe to marry Tommy. She is preceded in death by her parents, her daughter, Julia Estelle Richardson Gray, 2 grandchildren, Thomas Corbin Richardson and Meredith Estelle Gray. Ellen leaves behind her husband of over 65 years, Thomas Edward Richardson, Sr.; three children, Thomas Edward Richardson, Jr. (Katherine), Sarah Louise Richardson, James Marshall Richardson(Adrienne), and son in law, Kevin Richard Gray; eleven grandchildren Aubrey Floyd Hubbard III (Megan), Caroline Louise Hubbard, Matthew McCain Richardson, Logan Michael Gray, Laura Ellen Gray, Samuel Shannon Gray, Miriam Taylor Gray, Richard Thomas Gray, James Trawick Gray, Thomas Rhys Richardson and Steven Milo Richardson; seven great grandchildren Emma Katherine Richardson, Thomas Lelan Richardson, Aubrey Floyd Hubbard IV "Dru", Easton Bruce Hubbard, Edward Wyatt Hubbard, Estelle Wren Hubbard, Ellen Susana Hubbard; her brother Dr. Morris Trawick Reagan, and sister Dr. Sarah Reagan(Helen). In addition to her birth family, Ellen had another family that she cared deeply about. Over decades she had a love for, and a daily commitment to, those who were "friends of Bill". She was very involved in the Memphis recovery community, including her service on the board of Serenity House. A contribution to a local recovery group would be a fitting tribute to Ellen. The family will gather privately.
R01894689 – Sarah Longino Thornton ’60
Sarah Longino Thornton, of Memphis, Tenn., formerly of Tutwiler and Clarksdale, Miss., passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023. Sarah was born in Clarksdale, Miss., on Oct. 29, 1938, and was the daughter of John Thomas Longino, Jr., and Florence Wilsford Longino of Jonestown, Miss. She was the sister of Lucille Longino Owen (Will) and the late John Thomas Longino III (Jane)She graduated from Clarksdale High School and attended Southwestern College (Rhodes College) her freshman year. Though she would never admit it, she then followed a boy and graduated from the University of Mississippi. Of course, she married that boy, James Phenix Walker, an attorney and a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives until his tragic death in 1966After Jimmy's death, Sarah married Philip Henry Thornton III and lived on Hopson Bayou Plantation outside of Tutwiler, Miss., for many years. While in Mississippi, Sarah was a founding member of the Episcopal Church of the Advent, serving on the Altar Guild and teaching Sunday school. She served on the Board at Delta Academy for many years, was a devoted member of the Delta Sewing Club, and taught English at Lee Academy in Clarksdale, Miss. Sarah was an avid tennis player and snow skier. She enjoyed Mahjong, Bridge and backseat driving Eventually, Sarah moved to Memphis, Tenn., under the guise of being the National Alumni Director of Chi Omega Fraternity. In reality, the move was to be near her two beloved grandchildren. Sarah was deeply involved in Memphis, serving on the Altar Guild at St. John's Episcopal Church, as a member of the National Society of the Colonial Dames, the Antiquarians, and the Tuesday Study Club. She also served on the Board for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. She is survived by her daughter, Sarah Walker Benz (Howard); and her two grandchildren, Walker McShan Benz (Ellen) and Hudson Granville Benz; and her nieces and nephews, Will Whitten Owen, Jr. (Julia), Elizabeth Owen Kuhlo (Chris), John Thomas Longino IV, and Reade Longino Tidwell (Bob)A Celebration of Life will be held at the Episcopal Church of the Advent in Sumner, Miss., on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023. Visitation is at 10 a. m. in the parish hall, and the service will begin at 11 a. m.. Following the Celebration of Life, there will be a private graveside service. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Memphis, Tenn.
R01903495 – Richard A. Trippeer, Jr. (trustee-former)
Prominent Memphis businessman, Richard Allen (Dick) Trippeer Jr. passed away on Saturday, December 2, 2023, having been hospitalized for several months after an automobile accident. Dick was born on June 19, 1939, in Memphis, Tennessee to Richard Allen and Ruth Mason Trippeer. He went to Pentecost-Garrison School in Memphis before attending and graduating from Darlington School in Rome, Georgia. In 1957, during freshman orientation week at Duke University, he met Ivy Wright, from Birmingham, Alabama and they were married on August 12, 1960, shortly after Ivy graduated. Dick received a BA degree from Duke in 1961. After graduating, Dick began working in his father's company, R.A. Trippeer, Inc., and was the business' President from 1963-1968 at which time he sold the company. Dick was then able to take advantage of his adventurous nature and he moved his family to a small village near Geneva, Switzerland where he and Ivy immersed themselves and their children, Trip and Catherine, in learning French and skiing. While there, Dick worked for Index, SA, Berne. In 1972, Dick and his family returned to the US to live in Germantown, TN outside of Memphis and he became President of Union Planters Bank, a position he held from 1974-84 after which he served as Chairman of Union Planters Corporation, Memphis until 1989. His spirit of adventure was intensified over the years in part by his member ship on the board of directors of three airlines: Southern Airlines, Republic Airlines and Northwest Airlines. These positions allowed him and Ivy to travel extensively and see much of the world and in 1990 they purchased a home in the south of France, a place where they spent the next 30+ summers, hosting friends from Memphis and around the world. The family also spent portions of many winters from 1981-2004 in Park City, Utah where they loved having friends and family visit and where they continued the skiing that they had learned and fallen in love with in Switzerland years earlier. Some of Dick and Ivy's most enjoyable trips and meetings, both in the US and abroad, were with his Young Presidents Organization (YPO) Forum members, now some of their closest friends. Dick was a charming and engaging civic leader. In 1979 Union Planters was asked to donate money to a fledgling barbecue festival as part of the new Memphis in May celebration. Dick insisted that the barbeque festival became an annual event and authorized the bank to make a donation to help get it started. The World Championship Barbeque Cooking Contest is still an annual event in Memphis. In 1980 he was crowned King of Cotton Carnival and served with that association to strengthen social and economic ties for the city and over many years he gave his time and energy to countless charitable, educational and fundraising organizations. He was on the Board of Trust of Southwestern College (now Rhodes College), the United Way of Greater Memphis, the Community Foundation, the Plough Foundation, the Boy Scouts, Chickasaw Council, and the Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Two of his long-time interests, where he served as board chair, were the Brooks Museum and Le Bonheur Children's Hospital. Family was very important to Dick and he is survived by his wife of 63 years, Ivy, his son Richard Allen (Trip) Trippeer III , father of Richard Trippeer IV and Olivia Trippeer, his daughter, Catherine Trippeer Jameson (Dennis Nater) and her two daughters, Alyson Jameson (Crue Jameson) and Grace Jameson as well as Grace's twin boys, Pierce and Greyson Dobson and Wilder Jameson.Dick's funeral service will be held on December 30, 2023 at 3 PM in the Trippeer Chapel at Idlewild Presbyterian Church with a reception to follow also at the church. Memorials may be sent to Idlewild Presbyterian Church, the Baptist Reynolds Hospice House, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Dixon Gallery & Gardens or the charity of the donor's choice.
R05212091 – Walker B. Senseman ’08
Walker Blair Senseman was born April 14, 1986, arriving six weeks early, to his parents' surprise. His life was always that way--full of surprises. He passed away unexpectedly on December 14, 2023, at the age of 37. Walker was the son of David and Kathy Senseman, brother of Austin (Dylan Ferniany, Fern(4), and Liam(1)) of Birmingham, and Robert Senseman of Denver, CO. Walker is survived by his son, Eden Rae Fillingim (age 14) of Elberta, AL who Walker was so very proud of and loved with all his heart, and Eden's mother Virginia Fillingim. Walker graduated from Chamberlain-Hunt High School, Port Gibson, Mississippi, a Christian Military Academy. He was the Valedictorian of his class and while there won 1st place in Physics in the State of Mississippi private school academic competition. He was in the National Honor Society, and named the STAR student, and given the Distinguished Cadet Award for demonstrating servant leadership. He was the Commander of the Corp of Cadets, and team captain for both the varsity soccer team and cross country team. In 2004 the Port Gibson chapter of the Daughter's of the American Revolution awarded him the City of Port Gibson's Good Citizen of the Year award for service to the local community and beyond. In addition to mission trips including the Appalachian Service Project and Urban Ministries through Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church, he represented the city of Port Gibson and the Presbytery of Mississippi on a ten day mission trip to Natal, Brazil to improve water resources for the residents there. He built a wheelchair ramp at the home of a local resident, and for his Eagle Scout project he led a 500 man-hour project to rebuild the brick and wooden welcome sign at the entrance to the city of Port Gibson. Walker attended Rhodes College as the recipient of the Rhodes HON academic scholarship, the Mel Sparkman memorial scholarship through Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church, and the Gage scholarship for public speaking. He was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity. Walker lived in San Francisco until 2015 when he moved back to the Southeast living first in Ashville, NC, and then in Birmingham where he chose to continue living a happy-go-lucky lifestyle, living on the streets, doing his job which he defined as "helping those less fortunate than he was." If he saw a homeless person without shoes, he gave them his own. If another homeless person was cold, he gave them his coat. He was sure to find food and clothing for those in need and his compassion for others was the definition of who he was. Walker always marched to a different drummer. Beginning in his young years and throughout his life, medical professionals were never able to unlock the unique, and unusual oddities in his brain. Walker had a great sense of humor and always added flavor to our family gatherings. Showing up on Christmas morning in Santa pajamas with appropriate gifts he had shopped for along the streets of Southside. He had a knack for remembering the most obscure trivia, and he never forgot a name or a face. His mind worked in the most unexplainable manner. Throughout all of Walker's life, including his trials and tribulations, he never stopped loving Jesus, and spoke of his faith often. In the youth, he was active in the programs at Vestavia Methodist and that is where he learned his role in life of being the "hands and feet" of Jesus. A service in Walker's memory will be Trinity United Methodist on Oxmoor Road on Wednesday, December 20th at 11:00. Visitation at 10:00. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to Highlands School, 4901 Old Leeds Road, Birmingham, AL 35213.
R01886600 – Elizabeth “Betsy” Breytspraak Awsumb ’63
Elizabeth "Betsy" Breytspraak Awsumb, age 81, died peacefully on Christmas Eve after a very brief hospitalization at Advent Health Redmond in Rome, Georgia. Betsy was born in Memphis, Tennessee on March 18, 1942, daughter of the late James Merrill and Elizabeth Carrington Jones Breytspraak. There, she graduated from Rhodes College and the University of Memphis. Betsy has been a resident of Rome since her marriage to George Wells Awsumb in 1966. She was a lifelong educator, serving at Thornwood School, Shorter College, and Darlington School, where she established the international student program and enjoyed twenty years as International Student Director. She explored the world and expanded her family through the close relationships that she and George developed with her students. She loved to travel, and when she was home, she loved to read and take long walks. Betsy was a devoted member of St. Peter's Episcopal Church, having served as Director of Christian Education, a member of the vestry, a choir member, a Sunday School teacher, and a soup kitchen volunteer. In the Rome community, she was on boards of Chiaha, Hospitality House, Rome Junior Service League, and the Rome-Floyd County International Association. She was also a volunteer ESL tutor through the Rome-Floyd County Library. She is survived by her three daughters, Catherine Awsumb Nelson (Chris) of San Luis Obispo, California, Elizabeth Van Court Awsumb (Jennilyn) of Memphis, Tennessee, and Kristin Awsumb Liu (Jared) of Wallingford, Connecticut; three grandsons, James Awsumb Nelson, Graham George Nelson, and Whitman Awsumb Liu; and two granddaughters, Roosevelt Awsumb Liu and Emerson Awsumb Liu. She also leaves two sisters, Catherine Breytspraak Cousins (Ben) and Virginia Breytspraak Kelley (Terry) of Memphis, and one brother, William Augustus Breytspraak (Linda) of Kansas City, Kansas, and nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her beloved husband, George Wells Awsumb. Funeral services for Betsy Awsumb will be held on Saturday, December 30 at 11:00 at St. Peter's Episcopal Church with interment to follow in the St. Peter's Memorial Garden. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to Darlington School or Episcopal Relief and Development. The family will receive friends at a reception at St. Peter's following the service. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Daniels-FuneralHome.com for the Awsumb family. Daniels Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Elizabeth "Betsy" Breytspraak Awsumb.
R01895513 – George W. Wilson III ’53
George Willis Wilson III of Lexington, Kentucky died Wednesday December 27 after a short illness at the University of Kentucky Hospital. He was 92 years old. Born on May 5, 1931, in Martin, Tennessee, to Marguerite Taylor and George Willis Wilson, Jr., George grew up in Mayfield, Kentucky. He graduated from Rhodes College in Memphis and served over 30 years, active and reserve, as a Navy Intelligence officer, retiring as a captain. While serving on active duty at the Pentagon, George met Natalie Caleb Stearns, who was working in the Eisenhower White House as a speechwriter. A Navy buddy who had been courting Natalie was being deployed overseas, and he asked George if he would look after her in his absence. George and Natalie were married in 1956 in Washington and moved to Lexington in 1958.A great believer of service and community, George was active in many service organizations. He was a Paul Harris Fellow of the Lexington Chapter of the Rotary Club. He served as a Rotary Club president, 1989-1990, and district governor, 1995-1996. He was an officer of the Central Kentucky Council of the U.S. Navy League. George also was a member of the Kentucky Civil War Round Table and a charter member of Southern Hills United Methodist Church. From 1959 until his retirement in 1993, George was the executive vice president of the Kentucky Automotive Wholesalers Association. In 1966, he was admitted into the American Automotive Industry Hall of Fame. In 1969, he served as president of the Automotive Wholesalers Association of Executives. Over the years, George served as vice chairman, Kentucky Highway Users Conference, as well as in many leadership positions in the Boy Scouts of America. George was an Eagle Scout, and as scoutmaster of Troop 186 he helped many young men reach the rank of Eagle. From 1988-1989, George served as Blue Grass Council BSA president. He is a Silver Beaver recipient. George's contributions extended beyond national borders. In 2005, George heeded the call of a fellow Rotarian across the Atlantic who was in search of computers for a girls' school in Arusha, Tanzania. With the help of his grandson Austin, 40 computers and a shipping container of books were delivered. The school named a building in his honor, The George Willis Wilson III Computer Science Building. "For a retired person, Granddad was not very retired at all," Austin said. Known for his good humor, ability to cut the rug with the best of them, and passion for travel (be that a family trip to Cabo or riverboat cruise in Europe), George will be missed by many especially his cherished family. George is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Natalie Stearns Wilson, his three children, Ward Wilson (Susan) of Lexington Kentucky; Eleanor Derleth (Jim) of Highwood, Illinois; and Gretchen Brevnov (Boris) of The Plains, Virginia; as well as eight grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Lexington Rotary Club Endowment, Bluegrass Council Boy Scouts of America or Southern Hills United Methodist Church.
R01889103 – Sarah Austin Loaring-Clark Flowers ’51
Sarah Austin Loaring-Clark Flowers, a child of God and inheritor of the Kingdom of Heaven, went to the place prepared for her on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Taking to heart her Lord's command to "Go into the world," she did just that, helping others, working to improve lives, and spreading love abundantly. Sarah devoted much time to her church, St. John's Episcopal, where her father (Alfred "Tib" Loaring-Clark) was the first rector. She served on the vestry, with the Daughters of the King, The Episcopal Church Women, and the Church Health Center.
Always desiring to give back to her community, Sarah served on the boards of Habitat for Humanity, the Memphis Board of Realtors, Orange Mound Day Nursery, and helped found the Orange Mound Care Home, a residential home for the elderly. She took part in Shelby County Interfaith, a consortium of African-American and white churches working together to define and address neighborhood issues. She was awarded the 1993 Presidential Award by the Memphis Area Association of Realtors for her "drive, determination and humanitarian efforts in the association's community involvement." She also served as president of the Women's Council of Realtors. In addition, she held many offices in the Junior League of Memphis. In 1975, she felt compelled to run for the Memphis City Council to help the city she loved and, though she lost to the incumbent with 49% of the vote, she was gracious in her loss, calling the experience, "One of the most fun and enlightening things I ever did."
During her six years in Hopkinsville, Ky, where her husband, John William (Bill) Flowers, took over as President of Planters Bank, Sarah continued to throw herself into her new community. She was a founding member of the Voluntary Action Center where needs and volunteers were matched. She helped the Arts Council develop the first Hopkinsville Arts and Crafts in the Park. She served on the town's Human Relations Committee and helped develop the McNeal House, which provided after-school tutoring for inner-city children. She and Bill were members of Grace Episcopal Church there.
Sarah was, for many years, a common sight at the Memphis Pink Palace Museum, Jacob's Ladder, the Nehemiah Project, and Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, where she spent hours volunteering. Her work as a docent at the Memphis Zoo was a source of great joy to her. In recent years, she was a resident of Trezevant Manor, active in St. Edward's Chapel and other activities held there. She particularly enjoyed her role as a reader to the children of Ida B. Wells Elementary School.
Sarah was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Flowers; parents, Alfred and Margaret Loaring-Clark; sister, Margaret Jones; and many beloved extended family members. She is survived by her three children: John (Jennifer) Flowers, Margaret (Scott) Ferguson, and Martha Flowers; six grandchildren: Ruffin Flowers, Will (Faith) Flowers, Michael (Angela) Ferguson, Meg (Matt) Rogers, Austin Hasenmueller, and Buckner Loaring-Clark; and five great-grandchildren: Jones Ingram, Carlisle Flowers, Carrington Flowers, Torin Rogers, and Rosalee Rogers.
Services to celebrate her life, both earthly and triumphant, will take place at a future time to be determined. Memorials may be sent to St. John's Episcopal Church, 3245 Central Avenue, Memphis, TN 38111.
"I remember, and my soul melts within me. I am on my way to the wonderful Tent, to the house of God, among cries of joy and praise and an exultant throng." (Psalm 42:4, The Jerusalem Bible translation)
R01894023 – Harold Simpson ’51
Harold N. Simpson, age 88, of 204 E. Park Avenue, graduated to heaven on December 20, 2018.
Harold is the son of the late Ben and Rosa Lee Simpson. He graduated from GHS in 1949. He played all sports and lettered in football four years, so naturally he was an avid sports fan. As a Navy veteran of the Korean Conflict, he loved America. He retired from Bell South after 41 years.
His daughter Carol A. Simpson, nieces and nephews survived him. His parents, his son Harold D. (Danny) Simpson, five sisters, and four brothers predeceased him.
His memorial is on Dec. 27th at 3:00 pm after visitation at 2:00 pm at Thomas McAfee, Downtown. Send memorials to Brushy Creek Baptist Church (Community Outreach), 4999 Old Spartanburg Rd, Taylors, SC 29687 to help at-risk kids.
R01882866 – Bianca Chien Brindley ’90
Bianca Chien Brindley, daughter of Thomas and Monica Brindley of Huntsville, died suddenly on December 22, 2023. She was the beloved mother of two sons, Christopher Best and Arthur Best, and the primary caretaker for her mother, Monica. Bianca was valedictorian of her Huntsville High School class of 1986, played clarinet with the band, and was active in many school clubs. She received a scholarship from Rhodes College, which she attended for one year before transferring to Wellesley College in Massachusetts, where she graduated with the Class of 1990, with a double major in physics and philosophy. At Wellesley Bianca felt truly at home, establishing lasting friendships built on respect and trust with other talented women. From that time on she saw herself as a feminist and always supported political policies that aimed to empower women and raise them up. After her college graduation, Bianca completed a one-year masters in public health, worked on prerequisites for medical school, and then began studying medicine at the University of Alabama (Birmingham) in her midtwenties. It was then, in her very first semester as a medical student, that she had a serious and extended encounter with mental illness, ultimately forcing her to drop out of medical school. In time, Bianca was able to piece her life back together, completing a BA in computer science at UAH, working, and marrying and having two kids. Unfortunately, in 2010, her mental illness intervened in her life again this time in the form of postpartum psychosis. After a difficult decade, Bianca was able to overcome the disruption, reconnecting with friends and enjoying some time with her two sons. After the death of her father in 2018, Bianca served as the sole caregiver to her mom, who has been suffering from increasingly severe dementia. Bianca was a loving, intelligent, amiable, wonderfully quirky, funny, and determined soul with a giant heart. She was non-judgmental and made friends from all walks of life friends whom she generously gave her time and support. In addition to an interest in feminism, which she picked up from her years at Wellesley, she supported measures to protect the environment, and she advocated for those with mental illnesses. Bianca was close to her Mom and Dad, who she believed had always stood by her during her struggles with mental illness. She was also a loving mom to Kit and Arthur, caring sister to Becky and Erica, fun-loving aunt to her nieces, and a thoughtful friend to many. Survivors include her mother, Monica Chien Brindley; her two younger sisters, Becky Brindley Thuma and Erica Fox Brindley, and her two sons, Christopher Best and Arthur Best. She will be sorely missed. A Receiving of Friends will be held on Friday, January 5, from 3:00-4:00PM, with a memorial service immediately following at Berryhill Funeral Home. Berryhill Funeral Home assisted the family.
R01888223 – Dr. Matthew D. Curland ’58
Matthew (Matt) D. Curland, age 88, passed away on Saturday, December 30th at NHC in Somerville, TN. He was preceded in death by his mother (Lucille Evensky), father (Joe Curland), brother (Marvin Curland), mother-in-law (Mary Haire), and the love of his life, Elizabeth (Liz) Curland, his wife of 55 years. They met at Southside High School and had an on and off relationship until they realized that they just could not live without each other and got married on September 1, 1957. Matt was born in February of 1935 in Memphis, Tennessee, where he lived most of his life. He attended and played football for Southside High School and then pursued his undergraduate degree at both Southwestern and Memphis State. While he was in college, he was drafted to the Army and was stationed in Friedberg, Germany. Liz joined him overseas and they had their first of four children. After serving our country, Matt came back to Memphis and balanced being a husband, a father, a student, and an employee. He attended University of Tennessee Pharmacy School and graduated in June of 1964, in fact, it was the same day that his third son was born. For over 50 years, Matt worked as a pharmacist and store manager at such places as Walgreens, Super X, Centerville Pharmacy (his own pharmacy), and Super D. For anyone that knew Matt, they would know that the best part of him being a pharmacist was getting to talk to so many people and building relationships with his customers. Matt never knew a stranger. Although his children got embarrassed, he loved to initiate conversations with anyone he encountered, whether they liked it or not. Matt is survived by his three sons, Nathan (Jeannie) of Lexington, TN, Mark (Brenda) of Cordova, TN, and Michael (Beverly) of Oakland, TN; his daughter Felicia (Dave) of Roswell, GA; his grandchildren, Lucille, Joshua, Hunter, Stephanie, Jessica, Austin, Danielle, Bobby, Keira, and Kennedy; and his 12 great-grandchildren. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 2nd at 11 a.m. at Temple Israel's cemetery located at 1708 Hernando Rd, Memphis, TN 38106. In Lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations in his memory be made to the ALS foundation or St. Jude.
R01888643 – Marilyn McIntosh Draughn Gardner ’59
Marilyn McIntosh Draughn Gardner died December 23, 2023, in Nashville, TN. She was born June 23, 1937, in Memphis, TN, to Mary Swearingen and Robert Eugene McIntosh. After graduating from East High School, Marilyn studied at Randolph-Macon Women's College and Southwestern at Memphis. She was a talented pianist and graduated with a major in music and played with the Memphis Symphony. As a summer camp counselor at Camp Nagawicka in Wisconsin she met her future husband Daniel Hawkins Draughn. Marilyn and Dan married in 1960 and lived many happy years in Jackson, MS, where they raised their three children Jeff, Mary Loch and Lyn. She especially valued her friendships created in Jackson where she was active at First Presbyterian Church, the Junior League, various luncheon clubs, and later as a member of the Centennial Club in Nashville. Marilyn was widowed in 1986, later moved to Nashville, and married James Gardner in 2001 who died that same year. Her relationship with devoted companion Wendell Spragins was rekindled in her latter years. Together they enjoyed life in Boca Grande, FL, and Cashiers, NC. A gifted conversationalist with a quick sense of humor, she always enjoyed the company of others. For many years, Marilyn devoted her summers to Camp DeSoto in Mentone, AL, where she was a camp representative. Being with family and friends gave her much joy. Marilyn especially loved being a grandmother to Rob (Polly) Smith, Mary Daniel (Drew) Danieley, Sam Smith, Maggie Draughn, Laura Draughn, Emma Downey, and Martha Downey. She was also blessed to have three great-grandchildren Mary Adele Smith, Bert Smith, and Loch Danieley. Survivors include Jeffrey Daniel (Barbie) Draughn, Mary Loch (Chip) Smith, Marilyn McIntosh (Frank) Downey of Nashville, TN, and brother Robert Eugene (Cindy) McIntosh, Jr., of Davidson, NCA memorial service will be held at Woodmont Christian Church in Nashville, TN, on January 26, 2024 at 2 pm. Visitation will be from 1 to 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Woodmont Christian Church or the charity of your choice. The family would also like to thank Dr. Louis Johnson for his caring ways and the staff at the Blakeford's Woodcrest Health Center for their compassion An online Guestbook is available at: www.crawfordservices.com CRAWFORD FUNERAL HOME, (615) 254-8200
R00050179 – Herb A. Hilgeman (staff-former)
Herbert Alan Hilgeman, of Cordova, TN went to be with The Lord on January 8, 2024 after a long battle with cancer and scleroderma. He was 73 years old. Herb was born May 15, 1950 to Herbert Jacob and Evelyn Himes Hilgeman in Southgate, KY. He graduated from Highlands High School in Ft. Thomas, KY and Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. He received a Master’s in Education from Memphis State University. Herb coached for 41 years, which included 34 years as the Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Rhodes College. He is the leader in career basketball victories in Rhodes history and the SCAC Conference. He was named conference Coach of the Year numerous times, region coach of the year numerous times, and was inducted into his High School’s Athletics Hall of Fame, Northern Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame, and Rhodes College Hall of Fame. In September 2023, the basketball court at Rhodes College was formally named the Herb Hilgeman Court. He also received the NABC 2016 Division 3 Outstanding Service Award for contributing significantly “Inside and Outside the Lines” of coaching as a distinguished member of the community. Herb was a long time member of Lindenwood Christian Church. He was a Life Elder and Stephen Minister, and served on numerous committees. He was also active in the Emmaus Community.
The most important thing in his life was his family. Herb was married to the love of his life and best friend, Beth, for over 44 years. His greatest joys came from spending quality time with his children and grandchildren cooking out, playing cards, and spending summer vacations together. He was so proud of his family and loved them deeply. Herb is survived by his wife Beth, his children: Michelle (Shane) Pitts, Mary (David) Neal, David (Schuyler Dalton) Hilgeman, Charlie (Thalia) Hilgeman; grandchildren Desmond & Neva Pitts, Hannah Neal, Christian Hilgeman; his sister Verna Mason; and countless extended family and dear friends. Family and friends will remember his optimism, kindness, selflessness, sportsmanship, sense of humor, and connection with friends from each stage of his life. The family would like to thank West Cancer Center and the Physical Therapy department in particular for the care they provided to Herb over the past 7 years.
Memorial donations can be sent to the National Scleroderma Foundation or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Visitation will be Saturday, January 13, 2024 from 1 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., with service at 3:00 p.m. at Lindenwood Christian Church. Live stream will be available on lindenwoodcc.org.
R01887891 – David H. Clippert ’71
David Harrison Clippert, 74, of Camden, AR passed away on January 1, 2024, at the Cornerstone Specialty Hospital in Little Rock after a brief illness. He was born on October 25, 1949, in Camden to George Harrison Clippert and Maxine Hearnsberger Clippert. After graduating from Camden High School in 1967, David attended Rhodes College and the University of Memphis, earning a BA in Political Science/Psychology. He worked with Southern Pulpwood Company of Camden before pursuing a law degree at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. David earned a Juris Doctor degree in Law, including practical courses applicable to the timber business. He used his education, experience, and skill in continued work with Southern Timber Company of Camden, where he served as management forester, supervising all aspects of sustained yield forestry. David also used his love of wood in furniture design and construction, a hobby which led him to relocate to Atlanta to study furniture design. In 2014, he returned to Camden, where he served as President of Southern Pulpwood Company. David is preceded in death by his parents, George and Maxine Clippert, and his wife Regina Susan Clippert. He is survived by his sister, Nancy Clippert Broach, nephew Richard David Broach, great-niece Avyn Broach, great-nephew Banner Broach, and his friend/former wife Susan Safley. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 4, at 11:00 am at the Memorial Park Cemetery with Pastor Scott Knight officiating. Proctor Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
R01892013 – Dorothy “Dot” Sieplein McWeeny '61
Dorothy ("Dot") Sieplein McWeeny, 84, of Little Rock, passed away on Friday, February 16, 2024. Dot was born on April 11, 1939 in Dallas, TX. She attended Rhodes College (formerly Southwestern at Memphis) where she met William ("Bill") McWeeny of Memphis, TN. Dot and Bill married following their sophomore year in 1959, and transferred to Lyon College (formerly Arkansas College) in Batesville, AR. Following graduation from AC, they moved to Austin, TX where Bill attended and graduated from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Together, they served churches in MO, TN, AR and AL. While raising two daughters and being active in church work, Dot worked in a variety of settings. She was fond of saying that ministers' wives did not work "back in the day" and she was proud of the fact that she did. Dot and Bill traveled around the southern and western portions of the US in their primitive pop-up camper. Dot enjoyed hiking, running and biking when she was younger. She even completed a Ragbrai event, biking across the state of IA. It is difficult to put into words all of Dot's special qualities. She was loving, funny (and didn't realize it), generous and loyal. Throughout her life, Dot demonstrated her strong faith by helping and advocating for people. She tried to ensure that people were noticed and recognized their value. Dot was always there when needed. Dot was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Dr. William McWeeny; and parents, Otto Karl Sieplein and Gertrude Baker Sieplein. She is survived by daughters, Beth McWeeny (Philip Gallaher) of Little Rock and Shannon Taylor of Fort Smith; grandchildren Adaleigh Gallaher, Benjamin Taylor, Sam Taylor and Maegan Taylor; brother-in-law Mike McWeeny (Anne) and sister-in-law Andra Northup (Mary); three nephews and three nieces; and many friends. A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 23, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Westover Hills Presbyterian Church, officiated by Rev. Dr. Robert Lowry. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Westover Hills Presbyterian Church, Good Shepherd Community, or a charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com
R01895112 – Mary Rogers Watkins '55
Mary Rogers Watkins, 91, passed away peacefully on Feb. 8, 2024, in Franklin. Born March 13, 1932, to the late James Samuel and Lucy Wilson Rogers, Mary grew up in Wales, Tennessee, near Pulaski, on the family farm, "Gladwood." She spent her childhood tending to the farm with her father whom she lovingly called "Papa." Mary attended Martin College, where she played basketball. She then transferred to Southwestern University (now Rhodes College), and she graduated in 1955 with degrees in Philosophy and Bible. Her first job was at Hutchinson School in Memphis, where she taught Physical Education and Bible. In 1964, she moved to Athens, where she served as Dean of Women at Tennessee Wesleyan College and where she met her future husband, Morgan "Bitsy" Watkins. After marrying on June 19, 1965, Mary and Bitsy lived at "Ingleside," the Watkins family home, where Mary became a homemaker and where they raised their sons. Mary succeeded in fulfilling her mission to restore Ingleside and in making their home a gathering place, creating joyful memories that are still celebrated by neighbors, friends, children, nieces and nephews. Mary was always the ultimate hostess and loved having visitors so she could offer endless refreshments while insisting that everyone sit in the living room to visit. Mary took up golf in her mid-20s and continued to play golf "only on days that end in y" for at least the next 50 years. As she did in all her endeavors, Mary excelled at golf, winning the Springbrook Ladies Club Championship 19 times. Golf was also her passion off the course as she served on the board of the Women's Tennessee Golf Association (WTGA) for many years, serving one term as president. She also served on the board of the YMCA. Mary was active at Mars Hill Presbyterian Church, where she taught adult Sunday School for 15 years. Mary is survived by two sons, James Morgan Watkins (Bonnie) of Campbellsville, Ky., and Edwin Wilson Watkins (Andrea) of Franklin; four grandchildren, Tanner Morgan Watkins, Emily Elisabeth Watkins, Ethan Morgan Watkins and Grant Langdon Watkins; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Morgan Watkins; and sisters, Lillian (Harold) Timberlake, Edith (Richard) Dunn, and Lucy (Michael) Grether. A memorial service will be held at Mars Hill Presbyterian Church in Athens on Saturday, Feb. 17, at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Cheryl Bourne officiating. A reception and visitation will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Mars Hill Presbyterian Church, 205 N. Jackson St., Athens, TN 37303, or online at marshillpres.org; or to a charity of the donor's choice. Smith Funeral & Cremation Services of Athens is honored to serve the family of Mary Rogers Watkins
R01891973 – Stephen Albert McMillan '63, P'88
Stephen Albert McMillan, age 80, born in Mobile, AL and a resident of Foley, AL died Thursday, April 28, 2022 at his residence. Steve lived a full life.
He grew up in the rural community of Stockton where children were-- and still are--raised by the community, the church, and family. It was there that he learned to fish and enjoy the outdoors riding in his goat wagon.
At one time, he was an influential real estate broker. In 1980, he gave that up to serve in theAlabama House of Representatives. He stayed in that legislative position until his retirement in 2022, earning the title of “Dean of the House.”
He married Gayle Will in 1987. He was “Grampsey” to six incredible and loving grandchildren.
The greatest tragedy of his life was the loss of his daughter Adrienne. He will be buried next to her and his parents John Murphy and Matie T. McMillan in the Stockton Cemetery.
Kathy Bryars, his business associate for more than 40 years, describes him as someone who saw the good in people-- even when they did not deserve it. Linda Boyington laughs over his always telling her, “I’m glad you got to see me.” At home, he loved to share stories and laughed harder than anyone at his own jokes. Each of you probably has some memory of him that is special.
He will want to be remembered for his service to Baldwin County. He has a massive list of accomplishments. Ironically, he is most likely to be remembered for passing legislation that allows dogs in the outdoor patio areas of restaurants.
Steve was often referred to as a “walking encyclopedia” on any given subject. He stored huge amounts of information in his head and always did his homework before taking a position on an issue.
Many times, innovative ideas were his, but he made no effort to take credit for them. He was very humble and modest. Many times, others had to “toot his horn” for him.
His wife wants him to be remembered for his love of God. To him, his legislative work was a ministry. He was truly a servant of the people. His favorite hymn was “How Great Thou Art” which he sang slightly off-key every time he and Gayle were in the car together.
Steve loved the expression that people who do good deeds earn stars for their crowns. Dr. Robert Jeffress, pastor of First Baptist in Dallas, says that the Bible teaches that heaven will not be the same for everyone. Some people will receive real, tangible rewards and privileges. For all that he has done for others, Steve is sure to be among those.
He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Gayle Payne McMillan of Foley, AL; two sons, Scott (Nicole) Will of Fairhope, AL and Jason (Diana) Will of Birmingham, AL; two brothers, John M. (Kathryn) McMillan, Jr. of Montgomery, AL and Philip (Suella) McMillan of Stockton, AL and six grandchildren, Mary Frances Will, Margaret Ann Will, Matelyn Scott Will, Wiley McMillan Burns, Jonathan Cooper Will and Cameron Will.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, May 7, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at Gulf Shores Methodist Church. Inurnment will follow at Stockton Memorial Cemetery at 4:30 p.m.
The family will receive friends Saturday, May 7, 2022 from 1:00 p.m. until the 2:00 p.m. service at Gulf Shores Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to, Pilots for Christ, took Steve to MD Anderson and provides free flights to all who need medical attention, P.O. Box 707 Monroeville, AL 36461; Alabama School of Math and Science, founded by Steve via legislation, 1255 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36604 or to North Baldwin Animal Shelter, founded and operated by Red and Judy Wilkins P.O. Box 190 Bay Minette, AL 36507.
R01889563 – Col. John W. Gorski USAF (Ret.) '69
It is with sorrow and sadness that we announce the sudden passing of John W. Gorski on January 18, 2024. John was a retired Air Force Colonel who served in that branch of the military from 1970 – 2000. His tours of duty as a Military Manpower Senior Staff Officer, Commander, and USAFE Director of Staff spanned many assignments in Japan, Germany, and the United States.
John was born on May 19, 1947 in Pittsburgh, PA and is the son of the late Marcella and Walter Gorski.
Surviving are seven siblings, Eleanor Gorski, Marlene (Carl, deceased) Geier, Helen (Edward, deceased) Pula, Twin Sister Janet (Robert) Dell, Geraldine (Ralph) Bell, Charles (Cynthia) (Edna, deceased) Gorski, Elizabeth (Mark) Bedel. Additional survivors are beloved nephews and nieces, Gregory (Donna) Pula, Michele Pula, Brian (Sally) Bell, Elizabeth Bell, Katie (Jonathon) Smail, Michael (Lindsay) Gorski, Marisa (Gavin) Geubtner, Evan (Madeline) Bedel. He is also survived by great nephews and nieces, Jade and Jace Bell, Croix Smail, and Declan, Ethan, and Levi Gorski. Also left to honor his memory is ex-spouse Patricia Gorski.
Also surviving is long time partner and best friend Julie Small. Together they spent many years traveling the world, playing golf, visiting family, and enjoying all that life has to offer.
In Pittsburgh, PA, John graduated from North Hills High School in 1965 and went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Duquesne University in 1969, where he was commissioned through the Reserve Officer Training Corp. In 1976, he earned his Master’s Degree in Systems Management at the University of Southern California, Yokota Air Base, Japan. He is a Distinguished Graduate of the Squadron Officers School and the Air War College located at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, AL, as well as the Armed Forces Staff College, in Norfolk, VA.
While in the Air Force, John served as Director of Manpower and Organization and Special Assistant for Outsourcing, Air Combat Command at Langley Air Force Base, VA. He also held positions of Director of Staff and Director of Manpower and Organization, Chief of Bases and Units, Deputy Director of Plans and Programs at Ramstein Air Force Base, Germany.
Following his distinguished Air Force career, in 2000, John joined a number of companies in the private sector near Norfolk and Arlington, VA continuing to support the Department of Defense. His most recent 16 years supporting the National Guard Bureau Joint Staff, Air National Guard, Army National Guard as the Senior Manpower Policy Analyst stamped a lasting impression on all those who met him.
Throughout his life John was a gregarious and fun loving individual who was proud of his Pittsburgh roots and never lost his allegiance to his favorite Pittsburgh professional sports teams, the Steelers, the Pirates and the Penguins. Athletically active in his youth, he roamed the outfield for several years with a local softball team and pursued his passion for golf into his adult years.
John loved his wine and seemed to embrace the quote “Wine improves with age. The older I get, the better I like it.” He and long-time partner Julie could be found spending leisure hours at their favorite Virginia wineries. As he might say “Drink no wine before its time. OK, I think it’s time.”
Not surprisingly, John was often voted the “favorite Uncle” by his nieces and nephews. His affinity for engaging in playful banter with them was legendary and heartfelt. As a result, he has left a lasting legacy of the importance of family and friendships that have been a staple of his entire life.
Upon his request, John will be buried at the Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. with full military honors at a date to be determined. In keeping with his nature, he has also requested a Celebration of Life to he held to honor his life and provide an opportunity for all those who loved him to embrace in a party-like atmosphere. That celebration will also take place at a site and date to be determined in the months to come.
It is appropriate that this memorial end with the same sentiments that John would share at the conclusion of each phone conversation with his relatives and dear friends. “Love you!” And to that we can only add: “AND WE ALL LOVE JOHN BACK.”
RIP COLONEL GORSKI
Memorial donations. In lieu of flowers, may be made to the Burke Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department, 9501 Old Burke Road, Burke, VA 22015, or a charity of your choice.
184802727 – Richard F. Oljey, Jr. '83
Richard F. Oljey, Jr., 62, of Hudson, NH, passed away at his residence on Sunday, February 25, 2024.
He was born October 12, 1961 in Saugus, MA, son of the late Richard F. Oljey. Sr. and the late Martha (Baker) Oljey. Richard was also predeceased by his brother, Michael Oljey and his dear friend Dave Jackson.
Richard was the husband of Pauline Rand-Oljey of Hudson, NH.
Richard attended Rhodes College in Memphis, TN where he made many lifelong friends that he still keeps in touch with. He was employed with Textron Systems in Wilmington MA as a Security Lieutenant for most of his career and for the past 8 years was employed with Allied Security.
Richard was a lifelong fan of the New England Patriots. He attended as many games as he could and was a member of the Razor’s Edge Tailgate. He enjoyed golfing, though not the greatest player, but loved being out with friends. Richard was part of the Pin Seekers Golf Group and would play multiple times a year with them. He was also a member of Hudson Fish & Game and a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association.
Richard loved traveling with his wife and recently returned from 2 week trip in Huatulco Mexico celebrating their 10 year anniversary. Richard took many trips over the years, including: Ireland, River cruise on the Danube, where he visited Austria, Hungary, Germany & Slovakia, Jamaica, Yellowstone, Zion, Grand Canyon, Sedona, Las Vegas, Mexico, Nova Scotia and eastern parts of Canada and had plans to travel to many more places.
Besides his loving wife, Pauline, Richard is survived by a daughter; Rebecca Bradley and her husband Kenneth, a daughter; Stephanie Butler, grandchildren; Joseph Pastina, Aiden Brasley, Austin Brasley, Chase Pelletier, Sarah Pelletier, an aunt; Sister Martha Marie “Barbara’ Baker, an uncle; John Oljey, a sister in law Debora Huff and her husband Troy, nephews; Peter Speropolous, Jr., Cody Speropolous, Timothy Speropolous, a stepmother; Judith Oljey, Cousins; Kristin Spencer, Cheryl Davis, Jayne Abrams, Laurie Baker Baldi, Edwin Lurvey, Jill Baker McMillen, Brian Faulkner, Ray Cipoletti, Edward Oljey and many close friends that he considered his family, such as his first wife, Dawn DeStefano Oljey, and those he called his brothers like Mark Christie and Jack Jackson.
Following cremation, a time of visitation will be held on Friday, March 8th from 10:00am ~ 11:30am with a Service of Remembrance and Prayers at 11:30am in the Dumont-Sullivan Funeral Home, 50 Ferry Street in Hudson, NH. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers the family encourages donations be made in Richard’s loving memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org
R01888215 – Mary Belle Miller Cunningham '59
Mary Belle Miller Cunningham, 86, of Bartlett, Tennessee, passed away on February 23, 2024. Mary Belle was born in Memphis, Tennessee, on Mother's Day May 9, 1937, to her proud parents, John Q. and Ruth Ann Miller. With her older brothers, J.Q. and Bill, Mary Belle enjoyed her formative years with many close friends and family. Mary attended Bartlett High School, excelling as the Valedictorian of the Class of 1955, and followed on to earn her bachelor's degree in history from Southwestern at Memphis (Rhodes College) in 1959. Weeks out of college, Mary Belle married the love of her life, John Erle Cunningham, and they began an enviable devotion to one another that lasted all their lives. Their marriage included their children Cindy and Marc, and then their families, providing a life rich with joy and family fun. Mary possessed an undeterrable spirit and doted on her children and grandkids, while administering Mom and Grammie justice when needed. Mary became a teacher in Shelby County Schools, spending many years as a history instructor enjoying the antics and shaping the creative minds of high school students. Throughout her years, Mary Belle practiced an unceasing engagement with her extended family on all sides and friends, evidenced by her dedication to cards and notes sent to everyone imaginable on their birthday and other occasions. Along with her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her husband John; and her brothers, John Q. Miller, Jr. and William R. Miller; and many other close friends and family. Mary Belle is survived by her children, Cindy Vinoski (Steve) and Marc Cunningham (Julie); grandchildren, Ryan Vinoski (Caiti), Erin Thomas (Brad), Kim Jenkins (Trey), Robin Cunningham (Jemario Houston), Andrew Vinoski, and Jake Vinoski; and her great-grandchildren, Kendrick Thomas and Ava Vinoski. Mary Belle had many things in life she was passionate about, as she was interested and idealistic. Two of many things that sustained Mary in differing ways were Ellendale United Methodist Church and PBS.org , and memorials honoring her are deeply appreciated. Visitation with family and friends will be from 1:00pm to 2:30pm on Thursday, February 29 at Ellendale United Methodist Church, 7217 Centralia Rd, Memphis, TN 38135. A celebration of life funeral service will follow at 2:30pm, then a short interment service will be conducted at the Memorial Gardens cemetery at 3700 N. Germantown Pkwy, Bartlett, TN 38133.
R01890908 – Dr. Daniel C. Kenner, Jr.'72
After a brief illness, Dr. Daniel C. Kenner, IV, a man who saved many people’s lives, succumbed himself, and died quietly at his home in Forestville, California. Corinne, his beloved wife of 40 years, and his three cherished children were with him at his bedside.
Danny is the son of Dr. Dan C. Kenner, III, former minister of First Christian Church, and Margaret Overton Kenner. He is survived by his daughters Christine DeSadeleer (David), Andrea Diouf (Mamadou), and his son Daniel, three grandchildren, and his sisters Margaret Swafford (Steve), Deenie Becton (Paul), Nancy Gann (George), his brother David (RyShel) and their children.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Danny grew up in Little Rock, Arkansas, and attended Hall High School. He began reading quite young and showed an interest in plant medicine at an early age. He was an avid reader and continued to follow that subject during his high school and college years. This interest led him to study in both France and Japan. In Japan, he studied oriental medicine, graduating from the Meiji College of Oriental Medicine in 1979. He then undertook internships at both the Osaka Medical University Pain Clinic and the Kindai University Medical Training Hospital.
Dan took the Japanese National Licensing Examination for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in Japanese; he was one of the first foreigners to be licensed by the Japanese government. After his medical internships, Dan trained in a busy private clinic in downtown Osaka for two more years before returning to the United States where he set up his own practice in Santa Rosa, California.
Dan studied German Biological Medicine and French phyto-aromatherapy, integrating both into his private practice. His study of French phyto-aromatherapy led in 1994 to his first published book, Botanical Medicine: A European Professional Perspective. Dan researched, wrote, and published other books: Treatment of Infections Without Antibiotics, AHCC – Research and Commentary, and Whole-Body Workbook for Cancer Recovery: Seven Steps to Support Treatment, Boost Immunity, and Build Better Health, also published in Chinese.
In between his private practice, global consultations advising film-makers, clinics and businesses, and teaching seminars, Dan wrote articles for publications such as the American Journal of Acupuncture, Frontier Perspectives, Holistic Primary Care, North American Journal of Oriental Medicine, Townsend Letter for Doctors, and USC School of Pharmacy Continuing Education Series, as well as chapters for anthologies.
Dan served on the Board of Governors of the National Health Federation for 15 years writing a popular health column for the NHF Journal, Health Freedom News. For his health-freedom efforts, the NHF Board recently awarded Dan its prestigious NHF Health Freedom Hero award.
Danny was a fine musician whose gifts could have led him into a successful music career, but his calling was for unique ways of healing, and he had many plans for the future.
Danny is deeply missed by his family and friends for his compassion, for his humor, and especially for the father he was to his children and grandchildren. He is most dearly loved and cherished by his wife Corinne. His sudden departure left us all bereft of a soulmate and friend.
R01001183 – Margaret E. Cardwell (staff-former)
Margaret was born in The Dalles, Oregon to Harold Burges and Esther Daly Burges November 15, 1949. Margaret passed away on March 13, 2024. Harold was a newspaperman & Esther was the office manager of the paper. The family next moved to Chester, PA, then to Idaho, then to the beloved Glasgow, MT where Harold became publisher and Margaret gained a lifelong friend, Valerie Bauch, whom she knew since the 3rd grade. The young family, including her younger brother Bob Burges had moved from place to place opening new or expanding newspapers in emerging communities. The Burges family was always well-connected to local and state politics, owing to Harold's duties. This was the source of Margaret's love of newspapers, love of reading, love of research, and belief that in politics there is always a way to reason and compromise. The family often traveled back to the Burges family cabin (est. 1911) in Green Lake, Spicer, Minnesota for recreation and respite. The family moved to San Clemente, CA in 1966. Harold's newspaper was the host newspaper for the western Whitehouse under President Nixon, where the family visited for many press events. Margaret graduated from San Clemente High School then matriculated to the University of San Diego. It was there that she met her future husband, Craig. They married December 19, 1970, in a barrio church in south San Diego. Margaret made her own wedding dress and all the Christmas ornaments on their first tree. They moved to Santa Barbara, CA 2 days later and celebrated their first Christmas in Santa Barbara in 1970. Sarah was born in July 1972. Craig worked for a Memphis-based company in Santa Barbara. Margaret completed her undergraduate degree at UC, Santa Barbara in 1972 while pregnant with Sarah. In the fall of 1973, the new family moved to Athens, Georgia. Margaret loved her time in Athens, learning to play bridge, camping all over the State of Georgia, making many friends, including friends for life, the Steve & Sara Kuhn family. In 1977, the family moved to Austin, Texas. Abby was born in Austin, May 1977. There, they traveled about, camping often. Margaret returned to college, completing the Masters, Information Science, the University of Texas, Austin, August 1980. For her Masters project in 1980 she envisioned and wrote a search engine catalogue enabling one to organize and find cooking recipes. Margaret then moved to Memphis to reunite her family, Craig, Sarah, and Abby who had moved to Memphis in May 1980 while Margaret remained in Austin to complete her master's degree. Margaret immediately set about to seek employment in September 1980, based on her education background. She was rebuffed in over 120 interviews, because she, a woman, possibly taking a man's job, was catholic and not "born again", had lots of education and no experience, or because her husband traveled out of town and "who would take care of the children" in some event if the husband was out of town while she needed to work. Not to be deterred, she got a CDL (Commercial Driver's license) to drive a school bus for a local day care center. She was employed by Rhodes College (Southwestern), in January 1982 after the three previous employees who were hired ahead of her were fired or left. She walked to work from her midtown home from 1984-1996 at Rhodes as a reference librarian. During this time, she was a brownie and girl scout leader, served with VECA delivering the newsletter, and helped VECA catalogue its homes to be a designated a national historic place by the National Parks Service. She loved Overton Park, visiting its zoo at least twice a week to see the newborns. In late 1996, the family moved to Decatur, Georgia where Margaret worked for the University of Georgia. The girls were off to college and on their way. Margaret and Craig traveled, golfed, dined, renovated a home, kayaked, and generally had a fine time. Returning to Memphis in 2000, Margaret became the Director of the Library at Christian Brothers University serving under 4 presidents. Beginning from their time in midtown in 1984, Margaret has always served the nursery and young children in church to make sure that the parents could attend Mass. At St. Peter, she served in a similar role in the Sunday Atrium for children. As an important academician at Rhodes, Georgia, and Christian Brothers University she helped countless students who walked through the door turn "an inquiry and idea" today, into a serviceable and passable paper by tomorrow. Margaret, for 12 years, was a national pre-publication book reviewer for college and academic libraries seeking to underwrite books on child life, psychology, and young life changes. Her reviews served to get authors' works either endorsed for inclusion, or not so. An athlete, she loved golf and swimming. She was a competitive runner for many years until switching to her daily 2 3-mile walks. She doted on her three grandchildren Porter, Sydney, and, and Chloe, making sure that they vacationed with her and Craig every year (no parents allowed!). She was an excellent seamstress having made her wedding dress, then remaking it for her daughters' first communion, her grandson's baptism, and a granddaughter's first communion. Always generous with her time, she was adored by both family and friends. She served on several boards including The Brooks Museum league and Harbor town. For many years she served as a precinct election official for the Shelby County Election Commission. She dedicated herself to tutoring 2nd & 3rd graders to read both in core City and Catholic schools, was active in ARISE2Read, and taught reading literacy to learning adults through Literacy Mid-South. She enjoyed playing in two bridge clubs. She loved her book club, coordinating its regular get togethers for over 20 years. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Craig, brother Bob (Bend, Oregon), daughters Sarah Cardwell (Christa), Abigail Cardwell, grandchildren Porter, Sydney, and Chloe, many cousins, nieces, and nephews. A Mass will be held at St. Peter, 190 Adams Avenue, Memphis, Saturday, March 23, 11am followed by a reception in the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to ARISE2Read, Literacy Mid-South, or the Plough Library at Christian Brothers University.
R01891474 – Geraldine “Geri” Dozier MacQueen ’56
Geraldine (Geri) Dozier MacQueen passed away on Friday, March 8th at the age of 89. She was preceded in death by her mother and father Geraldine West Dozier and Charles Bingham Dozier, her brother Charles Robert Dozier and Leigh Windsor MacQueen her husband of 45 years. She is survived by her daughter Marion MacQueen Treadwell and son Robert West MacQueen & wife Mary Bailie MacQueen; three grandchildren Charles MacQueen Treadwell, Marion Margeret Treadwell and Elizabeth Leigh MacQueen. Geraldine Dozier was born on May 4th, 1934 to Geraldine and Charles Dozier in Marianna, Arkansas. The second of two children, she was the younger sister to Charles Dozier. She graduated from Southwestern at Memphis (now Rhodes College) in 1956 with a Bachelor's degree in English. Upon graduation, she remained in Memphis and began her career as a high school English teacher. She married Leigh MacQueen in 1957. She paused her career for a decade to raise her two children and returned to the classroom in 1978 teaching Latin at Briarcrest Christian School. In 1980 she moved to The Hutchison School to teach English where she remained until retirement in 1996.Geri was a passionate reader throughout her life. She particularly enjoyed the writings of Henry James, Jane Austin and Thomas Hardy; biographies; and travel books documenting England. She traveled to England several times to visit the homes of British writers and to relish the English countryside which served as the setting for many of the books she loved. She cherished spending time with her children and grandchildren particularly taking summer trips to the beach. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of your choice . Mrs. MacQueen's services have been entrusted to Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Avenue, Memphis Tennessee 38119.
R01889919 – Roger L. Hart ’65
After an extended illness borne with admirable grace and humility, Roger Louis Hart died on Saturday, February 17, 2024, lovingly attended by his daughters. A man of deep convictions and minimal needs, he was beloved by many and will be greatly missed. Roger was born in Elkhorn, Wisconsin while his mother was visiting the family's lakeside cottage and his father was overseas serving in WWII. Early years were spent in Madison, WI; elementary school years in Moscow, ID; and middle and high school in Gainesville, FL. Roger received his bachelor's degree from Rhodes College (previously Southwestern at Memphis), where he was a member of ATO fraternity, and his doctorate in American History from Princeton University. After teaching at Rhodes and LeMoyne-Owen Colleges, he joined the US Foreign Service, for which his uncanny ability to quickly learn new languages served him well. He was first stationed at the embassy in Chad and was later the US desk officer for a number of West African countries. Subsequent assignments were at embassies in Turkey, Russia, and Belgium. Roger later received his masters of Public Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and retired from the Organization for Tropical Studies, where he was vice president for finance. Roger was predeceased by his parents Margaret Thorpe Hart and Donald John Hart. Surviving are his daughters Elizabeth Hart Stavish (Forrest Stavish) of Asheville and Laura "Lilith" Hart of Durham; siblings Susan Johnston (Vicki Metzgar) of Nashville, TN, Charles Hart of Candler, Mary Hart-Paul (Greg Paul) of Raleigh; granddaughter Rosemary Stavish; and many nieces and nephews and their children. The family is deeply grateful, as Roger was, to the many staff members at Carol Woods who tended him for many years with great love and respect. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be given to the Carol Woods charitable fund at www.carolwoods.org or be sent to Insight Meditation Society at www.dharma.org
R05523344 – Avery E. Rust ’21
Avery Rust, 24, passed away peacefully at home on Feb. 27, 2024. She is survived by her parents, Andrew and Ashley Rust; a brother, Isaac Rust of Lafayette; her grandparents, Sharon Steen of Lafayette, Glenn Steen of Mobile, Bill and Nancy Rust of Broussard; an aunt and uncle, Ian and Emily Steen Atlas of North Fork, ID, an aunt, Jessica Maddry, and an uncle, Jamie Turner both of Lafayette; and several cousins. Avery, a native and resident of Lafayette, attended Westminster Christian Academy, Lafayette and Opelousas campuses, before pursuing higher education at Rhodes College in Memphis. Avery's compassionate nature led her to serve as a burn tech at Baton Rouge General's burn unit, where she touched countless lives with her kindness. Avery found solace in the company of her loyal companion, Mocha, a cherished Shorkie Poo, who was always by her side. Though her time with us was brief, Avery's impact was profound, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her. The family requests that visitation and a celebration of her life be observed at Martin & Castille's SOUTHSIDE Location on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Avery Rust to the forthcoming Avery Rust Memorial Fund on behalf of Seeds Nutrition Counseling that helped Avery through her battle with anorexia, on Avery's Memorial page https://everloved.com/life-of/avery-rust/donate/. Her family will be donating funds to their non profit foundation, please help other people with eating disorders receive the nutrition counseling they need. View the guestbook online at www.mourning.com Martin & Castille SOUTHSIDE, 600 E. Farrel Road, Lafayette, Louisiana 70508, 337-984-2811.
R01893843 – Diane Fuller Seal ’67
A Celebration of Life for Margaret Diane Fuller Seal, age 78, of Picayune, MS, who passed away Friday, March 1, 2024, will be held Friday, March 8, 2024, at First Baptist Church of Picayune, with visitation starting at 10:00 am and services at 11:00 am. Arrangements are under the direction of McDonald Funeral Home. Thomas Huck, William "Bill" Cruse, and Blake Travis will officiate the service. Landon Nelson will sing two hymns: How Great Thou Art and Amazing Grace. Cindy Bennett will be playing the piano. A native of Laurel, MS, Diane was born August 23, 1945. She graduated from R. H. Watkins High School in Laurel. She attended Southwestern in Memphis, TN for a year. She then transferred to Ole Miss where she was a member of Chi Omega Fraternity. She graduated from Ole Miss with honors majoring in English, Latin, and French with a minor in Bible. Diane was a lifelong educator teaching Latin, French, and English in numerous schools; Laurel High School, Coast Episcopal Day School, Picayune Memorial High School, Pearl River Central High School, and Northshore High School. She was the first teacher in Mississippi to teach by satellite through ETV. Throughout her years of teaching, she invested in her students inside and outside the classroom. She was a sponsor for Latin and French clubs and a cheerleader sponsor. Diane took multiple students to study abroad. She welcomed students into her home annually for formal Christmas parties. Many summers she taught manners classes at the public library where it culminated with a formal tea the students would host for their families demonstrating the skills they had learned over the summer. It was important to Diane for her students to learn classroom material, but equally important to teach students life lessons on how to conduct themselves in life and social settings. She took many students on field trips to New Orleans to dine at French restaurants where they ordered in French and knew how to conduct themselves in a formal dining setting. Diane was a member of First Baptist Church of Picayune where she served on multiple committees and taught Sunday school for a season. She loved God and loved people with all of her heart. She and her husband, Gerald "JoJo" Seal, mentored many people/teenagers from all different backgrounds and demonstrated guidance and love which left lasting impacts. Diane was preceded in death by her parents, James Morrison Fuller, Sr. and Margaret Geddie Fuller; her loving husband of almost 50 years, Gerald "JoJo" Lefferage Seal; her sisters Janie Harris and Sarah Callahan; and her nephew James Callahan. Left to cherish her memory are her loving and devoted children, Jodi Kenny) Knight, Jeb (Bethany) Seal, and Carrie (Douglas) Neal; her grandchildren, Jordan Knight, Collin Hodge, Mary Reagan Seal, Tate Seal, Savannah Smith, Sterling Smith, Anna Neal, Lynn Claire Neal, and Russell Neal; her great grandchildren; her brothers Dr. James (Suzy) Fuller and Lee Fuller; and numerous nieces and nephews.
R01888596 – Dr. Ed Smith Dorman '58
Dr. Ed Smith Dorman, a brilliant mind in the field of physics and a dedicated professor at Western Kentucky University, passed away on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at the age of 86 in Bowling Green, KY. Born on January 31, 1938, in Memphis Tennessee, he was the son of George and Clara Dorman. Throughout his life, Dr. Dorman displayed exceptional intellect and passion for learning. His academic achievements were remarkable, skipping several grades during his schooling years. He earned the highest honor of induction into Phi Beta Kappa as a physics major at Southwestern College (now Rhodes College) before obtaining his doctorate in physics from Johns Hopkins University. Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Dorman went on to work as a postdoctoral fellow at Johns Hopkins University for ten years with a prestigious group specializing in spectroscopy. His knowledge and expertise were further shared with students as he transitioned into a role as a professor of physics at Western Kentucky University. Dr. Dorman's dedication to teaching left an indelible mark on all those who had the privilege to learn from him. Despite his exceptional academic achievements, Ed remained humble and focused on contributing meaningfully to others without seeking any accolades or recognition. His generosity of spirit and remarkable memory-able to recite Pi to 32 decimal places-are just some examples of his unique character. In honoring the memory of Dr. Ed Smith Dorman, it is evident that his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched both in and out of the classroom. While he may no longer be physically present among us, his spirit of curiosity, generosity, and love for learning will continue to inspire generations to come. To order memorial trees or to the family in memory of Ed Dorman, please visit our flower store .
R01890462 – Dorette Storn Humphries '48
Dorette Storn Humphries passed away at the age of 97 on March 7, 2024 in Houston, TX, surrounded by her family. She was born in Memphis, TN, on July 5, 1926 to Martin and Eugenie Storn. She was preceded in death by her husband, James M. Humphries and two of her sons, Chris Humphries and Andy Humphries.Dorette was a lifelong Memphian until moving to Houston in 2016 to be near her children and grandchildren. She graduated from Central High School and Southwestern (now Rhodes) College, where her father was Chairman of the Romance Languages Department. After college, she enjoyed four years of travel and adventure as a flight attendant for Chicago and Southern Airlines. She married Jim Humphries in 1952 and became a full-time homemaker, wholeheartedly devoting her talents and energies to raising three sons and a daughter.Dorette was an active member of Second Presbyterian Church, serving as a Sunday school teacher and a church Circle leader. She was also a member of Les Passees, the Woman's Exchange, the Fine Arts Club, Belle Meade Garden Club and Dixon Gallery and Gardens. After her children were grown, Dorette enjoyed working at The Gift and Art Shop of Memphis for many years.A devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she is survived by a son Ken Humphries (Joanne) of Houston, TX and a daughter Camille Lee (Frederick) of Wellesley, MA; seven grandchildren, Henry Humphries (Lindsey), Jim Humphries (Kathryn), Stuart Humphries (Meghan), Clinton Ashley (Kathryn), Katy Ashley, Alexis Lee, and Rachel Lee and five great-grandchildren.A Celebration of Dorette's Life service will be held in the Chapel of the First Presbyterian Church of Houston at a date to be announced.
R01893756 – Dudley P. Schaefer '57
Dudley Pledger Schaefer, of Germantown Tennessee, went to be with the Lord on March 26, 2024 surrounded by his family. Dudley was born in Memphis to Osborne and Martha Wood Schaefer on March 5, 1934After graduating from Central High School, he attended the University of Tennessee, Knoxville before returning to Memphis to graduate from Southwestern. After graduation he married his high school sweetheart, Joan Winter, his bride of 68 Years. Dudley was a member of Crossroads Baptist Church, where he was known for passing out Beanie Babies to all the children. Dudley worked in the millwork business for 64 years, beginning his career at Central Woodwork, moving on to start his own company Schaefer Sash and Door, before closing out his career at Grandview Window and Door. Dudley was known to all for the love of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, his love for his family, and the love for his beloved Vols. He was preceded in death by his wife Joan, his parents, his son Paul Osborne Schaefer, and his brother Obby Schaefer. He is survived by three sons Dudley Jr (Lynn), Scott (Susan), David (Kristen). He is also survived by his grandchildren Michael Schaefer (Rachael), Caroline Schaefer, Matthew Schaefer (Rheagan), Thomas Schaefer (Kaitlin), Carrie Schaefer Atkins (Hudson), Virginia Schaefer Robbins (Jake), Ashleigh Schaefer Parker (Tyler), Molly Schaefer, Heather Schaefer, Katie Schaefer, as well as 10 great-grandchildren. He also leaves his brother Billy Schaefer (Margaret) and cousin, Milton Schaefer of Winchester Tennessee. A celebration of life will be held Thursday, April 4, 2024, at Memorial Park Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 10 A.M. followed by the service at 11 A.M. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Dudley's memory be made to the Memphis Union Mission.
R05222632 – Dr. Kathy Deen Evans, P'08 (staff-fomer)
Kathy Deen Evans passed away on Friday, March 29, 2024 on Good Friday of the Easter holiday, her favorite time of year. She was surrounded by her dear mother, her beloved children, and her best friend at the time of her passing. Kathy was born on August 4, 1953, in Memphis, TN the only child of Helen and James Evans. A lifelong and dedicated member of the Roman Catholic Church, Kathy was baptized at St. Anthony Catholic Church, attended St. Anthony Catholic School and Sacred Heart School, and graduated from Memphis Catholic High School in 1971. She pursued further education, graduating from Wheaton College (Norton, MA) in 1975 and earning a master's degree from Peabody College (Nashville, TN) in 1976. Kathy married Victor Abdullah on June 30, 1983. From this union three children were born: Victor in 1986, and twins Kathryn-Odeen and Joshua in 1987. Kathy was a most dedicated mother to her three beloved children, whom she raised with joy, love, and great pride. She worked hard to ensure that her children had everything they needed in life, praying for them every day and entrusting them to the grace of God. She was thrilled to be called "Grandmother Kathy" by her four grandchildren, whom she enjoyed spending time with every chance she got. She loved taking them to parks, making pancakes for their breakfast, reading stories to them, and sharing words of love and encouragement with them. She was a devoted daughter to her parents, dutifully caring for them throughout the different stages of their lives. In particular, her loving commitment to her mother Helen was known and respected by those in her community. Kathy found her professional calling in early childhood education. She loved all children and always sought to improve the lives of children, especially those living in poverty. She worked in various early childhood education settings, including Tennessee State University's Early Learning Center in Nashville and with Nashville Public Schools as a Kindergarten teacher. While building a thriving career and raising her children, Kathy simultaneously earned a Ph.D. in Education and Human Development from Vanderbilt University in 1996. From there she began a successful career in higher education at The University of Tennessee at Martin where she was a professor of early childhood education in the Department of Educational Studies. She retired in 2022 as the Director of Teacher Licensure and Field Placements in the Educational Studies Program at Rhodes College in Memphis. Kathy pledged to the Kappa Lambda Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in 1989. She served on the board of Porter-Leath and was a volunteer at the Women's Foundation For A Greater Memphis. She was a parishioner at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Germantown, TN. She enjoyed classical and performing arts, traveling, spending quality time with her family and friends, and enjoying all the wonderful restaurants and cultural attractions her hometown of Memphis has to offer. Those who love her will miss her sharp intellect, her engaging way of conversation, her sincere encouragement and love, her kind heart, and her warm smile. Kathy is preceded in death by her great-grandmother, Odeen Hankins Nash; and her father, James O'Neil Evans. She is survived by those who will hold and cherish her memory: her mother, Helen Young Evans; her children, Victor Jerome Evans (Crystal Churchwell Evans), Kathryn-Odeen Evans (Nathan Madden), and Joshua O'Neil Evans (Felicia Alexander); her grandchildren, Clara Deen Madden, Bronx Alexander Evans, Victor Jerome Evans, Jr., and Julia Elizabeth Evans; and a loving collection of cousins, relatives, close friends, neighbors and colleagues. Memorial services are arranged by R.S. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home in Memphis. A visitation will take place on Friday, April 5 at 6:30 PM at R.S. Lewis Funeral Home on Vance Avenue in Memphis. The funeral will take place on Saturday, April 6 at 10:00 AM at St. Theresa Little Flower Catholic Church. A private burial will follow. Condolences can be sent to R.S. Lewis and will be passed on to the family. In place of flowers, please consider a donation in Kathy's honor to Porter-Leath. The family has scheduled a public viewing for Friday April 05, 2024 from 6:30 until 8:00pm at The Historic R. S. Lewis and Sons Funeral Home 374 Vance Ave. Mass of Resurrection will be 10:00am Saturday April 06, 2024 at St. Therese-Little Flower Church 1644 Jackson Ave. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery 5668 Poplar Ave. to the service of Dr. Kathy Deen Evans
R01886734 – Susanna Renshaw Barnett '53
Susanna Renshaw Barnett, 92, of Germantown Tennessee passed away March 26, 2024 at The Village of Germantown surrounded by family and loving caretakers. Susanna was born in Memphis on April 22, 1931, to George Andrew Renshaw and Lorena Pearl McCormick Renshaw. The youngest of three children, Sue is preceded into heaven by her adored older siblings, Paul Andrew Renshaw and sister Lureta "Rita" Jones (Asbury). Sue attended Snowden Elementary school and St Mary's Episcopal High School. Smart, pretty, stylish and popular at Southwestern College (now Rhodes) she was a member of A O Pi sorority and had the honor of being elected K.A. Rose. Sue lived in Memphis with her first husband of 22 years, Michael Clive Ossorio, co-owner of Arrow Glass Boat Co. and their three children Susan Lynn Ossorio, Michael Jess Ossorio (Pat) both of Germantown, Tennessee and Katherine Lisa "Kaky" Wakefield (Walt) of Dallas, Texas. A devoted wife and doting fun-loving mother, she was also an active member of numerous garden, luncheon and social clubs. She was an avid lifelong bridge player. Sue was blessed to have a second great love in her life with her second husband, William Carr "Big Bill" Barnett. They shared 31 years of joy and laughter. She became the proud stepmother to William Carr "Bill" Barnett Jr. (Joan) of Collierville, TN, and Billie Jo Gaia (Skip) of Horseshoe Lake, Arkansas. She especially appreciated the incredibly warm and compassionate staff and caretakers throughout the Village who made her life both happy and peaceful. Above all, Sue valued close family ties and relished not only her role as mother, but also as aunt to her niece Patte Stone (Bubba) of Coldwater Mississippi, and her nephews Tripp Jones of Fairfield Bay, Arkansas and Drew Renshaw (Joanie) of Rossville, Tennessee. Proud grandmother of eight, Alec Ossorio (Ellen), Will Wakefield, Michael Wakefield, Laura Galbreath, Stephen Gaia (Kacey), Emily Brimm (Stephen), Britt Barnett, and Melanie Fisher (Cory) as well as great-grandmother to 17 including newborn namesake Susanna James Ossorio. Sue's last 14 years were happily spent as a resident of the Village of Germantown where she was able to once again be the sweet, smiling, stylish, social butterfly. She enjoyed festivities in the company of both old friends like former neighbors, Janie and Merlin Cohen, as well as new friends especially her best friend, Ms. Sue Eubanks. They became known as "The two Sues. Everyone who knew Sue Barnett will treasure her memory and remember her wit, style, kindness, courage, and Joie de Vivre. The family invites friends to make donations in Susanna's memory to St. Jude or the charity of the giver's choice. Private family interment will take place at Memorial Park at a later date.
R00050412 – Prof. Frederic “Fritz” R. Stauffer, P'71, P'74, P'77 (faculty-former)
Frederic Stauffer was a WWII Merchant Seaman and an Army Veteran. He was also a Physics Professor at Rhodes College (Southwestern at Memphis), University of Massachusetts and Bucknell University, for a total of 30 years. He will be laid to rest at West Tennessee Veterans Cemetery beside his wife of 56 years, Helen a WWII veteran of the Army Nurse Corp. Frederic is survived by his sons, Jerry (Kittie) Stauffer, Bucky (Catherine) Stauffer, Fritzi (Debbie) Stauffer, and Arthur (Debbie) Stauffer. As per Frederic's request, there will be no funeral or memorial services, however the family welcomes prayer support at this difficult time. Memorials may be offered to church or charity of the donor's choice.
R01894652 – Dr. Claude Warren Thompson, Jr. '62
Dr. Warren Thompson wrote this account of his life to serve as his obituary: "My purpose here is not to document my history or my accomplishments, but simply to tell you who I have been and to say goodbye to you. My parents, Warren and Eleanor Thompson, who died a few months apart in 1985 and 1986, gave me the gift of unconditional love. They also blessed me with six brothers and sisters who have been my friends and companions over the years. My twin sister Eleanor Canfield (Bert) has been my loyal companion for my whole life. We lost out sister Louise Craig too soon, and she is sorely missed at family reunions. My four brothers are Jim (Vicky), Bobby (Deborah), Rick (Lilly), and Bill (Jenny). I received my education at Rhodes College, Duke University Medical Center, University of London, England, and Vanderbilt University. My work as a psychologist has brought great meaning in my life. I like to think that I have helped other people live happier lives. My wonderful wife, Lynn Meade Thompson, died at age 49 in 1995. She gave me three loving children who have made my life no less than magical. They are Brendan (Charity), Nick (Darienne), and Kate (Hisham). The death of our infant son, Warren Thompson III, shortly after his birth in 1978, still makes me cry. I realize that I was born to be a dad and of course my three grandchildren will continue to keep our family vibrant. So much love to those who call me "Baba" Mya Thompson, Liam Thompson, and Ima Bharoocha. Although I am no athlete, I took up running as a graduate student and ran many races until my knees gave out. Then I began bicycling with my friend Clay Myers and we pedaled across the state of Virginia twice. When biking became too hazardous for an 80-year old, I started golfing and continued to play poorly (but with great joy) until recently. I have been blessed with many friends, and I have shown no hesitation in telling you that I love you. And I have been overwhelmed by your willingness to tell me you love me too. My friend, Jackson Brown, once gave me some advice, and I pass it on to you 'Never ignore the urge to be generous'. I have had a charmed existence. Love to you all. My favorite charities are Alive Hospice, Gilda's Club, ACLU, and Llawala Community Alliance. I am not currently a church member, but I did serve as an elder at Trinity Presbyterian Church for five years, so I hope that counts when God does my 'report card'" Should you wish to send a message to the family, you can use the following email: TheFriendsOfWarren@gmail.comVisitation: Saturday, April 6th, 2024, 12pm-1:45pm, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 3201 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville, TN, 37215. Memorial service to follow at 2pm. Livestream available on the church website.