Fall-Winter 2024
Ann Pridgen Bailey ’47
Ann Elizabeth Pridgen Bailey, 97, went to be with the Lord July 24, 2024, in Memphis. Ann was born September 26, 1926, at 10:26 am in Memphis to the late Newton Allen Pridgen and Louise Roby Pridgen. She attended Normal Training School, Central High School, and Southwestern College (Rhodes), graduating in 1947. In 1948 she married Edgar Hull Bailey, a marriage that lasted 64 years until Edgar passed away in 2012. Together they had three children, Scott Hull Bailey born in 1952, Kirk Pridgen Bailey born in 1955, and Elizabeth Paige Bailey (Phillips) born in 1959.
Ann enjoyed a busy adult life raising children and supporting her husband in his business career, but found time to serve as a member of The Le Bonheur Club, The Woman’s Exchange, The Symphony League, and served on the board for Wings at West Clinic. She was also the President of the Peace Circle of King Daughters. She was a member of Second Presbyterian Church where she served in Circles and was a member of the Chapel Sunday School Class. For the past few years, she attended church at The Chapel at Trezevant Manor. She traveled extensively nationally and internationally with her husband for business and for pleasure. She enjoyed taking her grown children with her on trips to show them places in the world she really enjoyed. She also enjoyed having her children and grandchildren with her in her vacation home in Sandestin, Florida.
Ann was an active tennis player, which she played until she was 72. She also played bridge and truly enjoyed the friendships made and laughter enjoyed playing both bridge and tennis. She was a voracious reader, often reading multiple books at the same time. She loved all the dogs she had through the years and considered them her four legged children. She was most happy in her later years with music on in the house, her dog in her lap and friends and family around her. Ann was preceded in death by her brothers, Dr. Stephen Allen Pridgen ’46 and Dr. William Roby Pridgen. She is survived by her daughter Paige Phillips (John) of Memphis, son Scott Bailey of Freeport, Florida, and son Kirk Bailey (Debbie) of Memphis. She is survived by her grandchildren Amanda Bogart, Brian Bailey, Brice Bailey, John Phillips V, Paige Gillespie, Bailey Kaelin, and 11 great grandchildren, who all referred to her as Gam. The family would like to thank Tina Mathews, Sherry Beasley, Irene Williams, and Gloria Larry for the loving care they provided for Ann the past three years.
Julia Wellford Allen ’47
After nearly 99 years on this earth, Julia Wellford Allen died peacefully on August 10, 2024. Throughout her long and rich life, she worked to build bridges across cultures, address social injustices, and make everyone welcome in her home, her church, and her community. She was a tireless volunteer and eager recruiter for countless nonprofit and church-related projects. She was never afraid to express her views on a topic if she thought she could make a positive change. Born on October 20, 1925, in Memphis, Julia was the third of Harry and Roberta Prothro Wellford's four children. She graduated from Snowden School and the Hutchison School. At Southwestern (now Rhodes College) she met Ray Allen ’44, whom she would marry. Julia and Ray's nearly 60-year marriage was a true partnership. She worked while Ray earned his Ph.D. from Duke University and with him, led the Methodist student fellowship there. She supported Ray's faculty career at several small colleges while they started their family.
Julia and Ray returned to Memphis with their three young children in 1963. While Ray served as Dean of Admissions at Southwestern, Julia actively volunteered, serving as President of the Women of the Church, Deacon, and Elder at her beloved Idlewild Presbyterian Church. In the wake of the unrest of 1968, she felt called to help heal tensions in the city through active service. Julia became the Executive Secretary of MIFA (Metropolitan Interfaith Association) and recruited many of MIFA's initial VISTA volunteers. Later, she directed volunteer opportunities for Rhodes College students as a Kinney program coordinator. At Idlewild, she organized several mission service trips to Central America in the 1980s. Ray and Julia loved to travel with family and friends, especially to Germany where they made many new connections. After Ray's death in 2007, Julia moved to Trezevant Manor and promptly organized a volunteer program there to tutor refugees in English skills. She stayed active until well into her 90s.
Julia loved her family unconditionally. She is survived by her three children, Julie Allen (Bill) Berger ’76 of St. Louis, MO, Ray M. (Louise) Allen, Jr. of Memphis, and Katherine M. Allen (Richard Page) of State College, PA. She adored her eight grandchildren Sam, Marian, Briar (Flann), Bryan, Charlie (Elyssa), John, Nathan, and Louise ’16 as well as her sister, Mary (Bill) Ford of Grand Rapids, MI, and many cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins. The family deeply appreciates the creative support of Julia's personal caregivers in her final years, Linda Smith, Debra Walls, Shante Stallion, and Hazel Broadie, as well as the Trezevant staff.
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.
Sylvia Cozette Bannister ’48
Sylvia Cozette Bannister, 92, passed away on February 26, 2019. Cozette was born in Searcy, AR, to the late Ira Clifford and Pattye Cole, and preceded in death by her brother, Royce Cole. She was a member of Bellevue Baptist Church and a retired secretary at Schering-Plough. She is survived by a daughter, Debbie (Keith) Black, son, Larry (Patricia) Bannister, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
Geneva Trim Vaughn ’49
Geneva Trim Vaughn went to be with her precious Lord and Savior on July 4, 2024, just a few weeks after celebrating her 97th birthday. Geneva was born on June 13, 1927, in Phillippy, TN, to Ora and Earl Trim. She cherished her memories growing up on the farm with her brothers, Kermit and Troy. At the age of 12, Geneva moved to Tiptonville, TN, and lovingly called it her home for the rest of her life. After graduating from Tiptonville High School, she attended Gulf Park College for Women and then Southwestern (now Rhodes College), where she was a member of Chi Omega and a voice major.
In 1950, Geneva married Howard Vaughn. They enjoyed 58 years of marriage until his death in 2009. They raised two children, Marty and Mona, and their home was a welcoming place for many friends and family. Geneva worked as a music teacher at Margaret Newton Elementary School and was known for teaching all her students’ patriotic songs. She was a member of the Tiptonville Woman’s Club and loved serving as den mother for Marty’s Cub Scout troop and as a Girl Scout leader for Mona. Geneva faithfully served the Lord at First Baptist Church Tiptonville. She was a director of the Girl’s Auxiliary and taught Sunday school. She served as choir director for over 40 years and is fondly remembered for singing “O Holy Night” every Christmas until she was 80.
Known for her beauty, kindness, charm, and humor, Geneva was a true lady in every sense of the word. She could light up a room and had a way of making anyone in her presence feel special and adored. She was the greatest audience. She loved the Lord with all her heart and served Him faithfully throughout her life. Her pride and joy were her two children, six grandchildren, and fifteen great-grandchildren. Fondly known as “Neva,” she loved and cherished her family and would pray for each of them by name daily. Neva will be remembered by her family for her funny stories, playful songs, sourdough bread, quick wit, and sweet spirit. She will be dearly missed, but her family is comforted with the assurance that she is singing in the presence of Jesus, and we will all be reunited with her for eternity. Geneva is preceded in death by her parents, brothers, and husband.
She is survived by her children, Howard Martin Vaughn, Jr. (Debra), and Mona Vaughn Sandusky (Cooper); her niece, Linda Kay Trim Findley; her grandchildren, Robert Edmond Vaughn, Laura Sandusky Turner (Tim), Jennifer Sandusky Simmons (Hall), Kelli Sandusky Hunt (Pete), Christine Sandusky Tunnell (Scott), and Cooper Sandusky (Kate); and her great-grandchildren, George Robert Vaughn, Eli Turner, Lucy Turner, Anna Turner, Jonathan Turner, Geneva Simmons, Sam Simmons, George Simmons, Anne Simmons, Ben Hunt, Addie Hunt, Josh Hunt, Ruthie Tunnell, and Ellie Sandusky.
Lenora Spellings Stephenson ’49
Mrs. Stephenson was born in Bells, TN, February 18, 1927, one of four daughters of the late Robert and Florence Spellings. She and her three sisters enjoyed growing up in a small town and made lifelong friendships with an active neighborhood of fun-loving boys and girls. She graduated from Bells High School in 1945 and attended Southwestern College (Rhodes College) in Memphis where she was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority.
In 1950 she married her sweetheart and love of her life, the late Bill Stephenson. They were married for 63 years. They moved from Memphis to Union City in 1954. Music was very important in her life. In high school, she was always ready and willing to play for different classes when they had Chapel program and needed a piano player. She taught piano lessons in Bells and Union City for 10 years. She also played for several Assisted Living groups in Union City. She started very early as a pianist for the Margaret Carter Class at First Methodist Church and continued that position into her 90's. Lenora had been an active member of First United Methodist Church, serving on several committees throughout the years and teaching third grade Sunday School for many years.
She was a longtime member of United Methodist Women (UMW). She was a member of Third Review Club of Union City and a 40-year volunteer at Baptist Hospital Auxiliary, where she served as President for 3 years. She was a faithful election poll worker, a Girl Scout leader and worked with and supported the Community Concert Association. But above all, she was a loving wife and mother. She loved her husband and family more than words can express. She enjoyed camping in their RV and they spent many happy winter months in Florida and met many good friends there as well. In addition to her parents, Lenora was preceded in death by husband Bill Stephenson and sister Elsie Petty. She is survived by daughters Pat Stephenson of Union City, Lisa (David) Gamble of Franklin, TN; son Alan Stephenson of West Orange, NJ; grandchild Raphael Stephenson of West Orange, NJ; and sisters Barbara Williams of Savannah, TN, and Harriett Wilson of Gleason, TN.
Martha Birdsong Nickey ’49
Martha Vivian ("Molly") Birdsong Nickey of Jackson, MS, died peacefully at home on August 16, 2024, at the age of 96, with hospice services, sitters, and her two daughters by her side. She was a member of Galloway United Methodist Church of Jackson. Molly was born on October 27, 1927, in Clarksdale, MS, to Thomas Butler and Florence Elizabeth Waters Birdsong, who preceded her in death. In 1945, Molly graduated from Central High School in Jackson, and then attended Southwestern (Rhodes) College in Memphis, TN, and was in Delta Gamma Sorority. She married the now deceased Robert Lowry Nickey, and they had three daughters. She loved being a wife and mother and devoted her life to her family. She and her husband worked lifelong at the MS Society of CPA's—he being the director, and she the bookkeeper/office manager.
Molly is survived by two daughters, Barbara Nickey and Cynthia Nickey. She is preceded in death by her father, Brigadier General, T. B. Birdsong, and her mother, Florence Elizabeth Waters Birdsong; her daughter, Martha Jo Nickey; and her loving husband of 52 years, Robert Lowry Nickey; and many other relatives. The family wishes to express our heartfelt thanks to PAX Hospice, Janice Coleman, Shenika Butler, Amanda Tucker, Dee Terry, the Rev. Lewis Winfield, and many other medical professionals, including Dr. George Patton.
Reverend Lloyd Donald Ellis ’50
Reverend Lloyd Donald Ellis, 98, died Wednesday, May 1st, 2024, at home with family by his side. Reverend Ellis was born in Tampa, Florida, on January 29, 1926, to Frank and Bonnie Ellis. He attended Southwestern at Memphis, now Rhodes College, and graduated from Western Carolina University. He also graduated from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University, where he received a Master of Divinity degree.
He was a veteran of World War II. Reverend Ellis worked with Van Raalte Company, Inc., for eight years before receiving his divinity degree. Upon his graduation from Emory University, he served churches across the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church, including appointments in Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Kernersville. During his career as a minister, Reverend Ellis held leadership roles on numerous boards throughout the Conference. Within each city where he lived, he actively participated in various civic clubs. He was on Greensboro College's Board of Trustees for twenty-four years and was on the Board of Goodwill Industries for eight years. Reverend Ellis will be remembered as a loving and caring father, a fan of humor, a consummate listener, and a soul with an unparalleled compassion for his fellow man. Surviving Reverend Ellis are his wife, Clara Taylor Ellis, and their five children: Emmett (Jane) of Kernersville, NC; Marie Pugh of Roanoke, VA; Gene (Mary Catherine) of Albemarle, NC; Mike (Candi) of Greensboro, NC; and Tim (Laura) of New Albany, OH. Reverend Ellis is also survived by nine grandchildren: Carey Ellis, Jennifer Justice, Chris Pugh, Sarah Ellis, Mary Hannah Ellis, Justin Ellis, Taylor Ellis, Hailey Hanahan, and Harrison Ellis; ten great-grandchildren; and his brother, Douglas Ellis. Preceding him in death was his brother, Dale Ellis (Jean).
Susanna Renshaw Barnett ’53
Susanna Renshaw Barnett, 92, of Germantown, TN, 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 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 Alpha Omicron 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, and Katherine Lisa "Kaky" Wakefield (Walt) of Dallas, TX. 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, AR. 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, MS, and her nephews Tripp Jones of Fairfield Bay, AR, and Drew Renshaw (Joanie) of Rossville, TN. 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, and 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.
Mary Frances Forbes Reed ’54
Mary Frances Forbes Reed died peacefully June 22, 2024. A native of Birmingham, AL, she was born February 4, 1933, to the late William Kenneth Forbes and Willie Lee Long Forbes. She graduated from Phillips High School and Southwestern at Memphis (now Rhodes College). She later received master's degrees from University of Alabama and University of Montevallo. She was a teacher in both Virginia and Alabama. After retiring, she continued to help students by volunteering in many ways. She was a member of South Highland Presbyterian Church and very supportive of Westminster Presbyterian Church. She is survived by her husband Robert Reed and his daughter Susan Seniw (Paul); her brothers William Kenneth Forbes and William Long Forbes (Augusta). She adored her nephew William Long Forbes Jr. (Janet) and niece Augusta Forbes Vos, and her great nephews William Long Forbes III (Brittany) and Charles Burgin Hamilton Forbes. The family is grateful for all the care from Marvin Walker and staff at Elite Nursing Home.
Captain Joe H. Parker, USN, Ret. ’55
Captain Joe H. Parker, USN, Ret., 90, of Columbia, SC, died on August 31, 2024. Born in Memphis, TN, on April 6, 1934, he was the son of Vera DeLuca and WM Rhea II, and his stepfather HC Parker. He received a B.A., with distinction, from Southwestern at Memphis in 1955 and a Master of Divinity in 1958 from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, where he met his wife of 67 years. He obtained a doctorate from Covington Theological Seminary in 2000. He was ordained as a Baptist minister in 1958 and was called to serve as Associate Pastor of Memorial Baptist Church in Hampton, VA, and Interim or Pastor of several Baptist churches in South Carolina before being accepted into the Officer Candidate School in Newport, RI. He was commissioned in 1962 and served as a chaplain until retiring in 1984. He served aboard numerous destroyers and the USS Chicago and was stationed on many Naval bases around the United States and Japan. After retiring, he was the Dean of Off-Campus Students at Columbia International University. He served as Interim Pastor at Dentsville Baptist Church, Pastor of Ridgeway Baptist Church, Volunteer Outreach at Woodfield Baptist Church, and Pastor of Mount Olive Baptist Church.
He is survived by his wife, Vermelle; son, James; daughter, Lisa (Craig), granddaughters Nicolette and Lauren Moody; sister Virginia Devoto, and nieces Debi Mallette and Diane Day, nephew Don Devoto, and their children. The family would like to acknowledge the compassionate care provided by the staff of Dorn VA Hospital, Warriors Walk Hospice, and Home-Based Primary Care, caregivers from Always Best Care, and friends and family who provided support during Joe’s illness.
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 and 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.
Dudley P. Schaefer ’57
Dudley Pledger Schaefer, of Germantown, TN, 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, 1934. After 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.
Mimsy Townshend ’57
Miriam Elizabeth "Mimsy" Townshend of Memphis, TN, died on April 6, 2024, at the age of 89. She is preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Howard and Frances (Daniel) Townshend, sister Frances Ann (Townshend) Atwood (Richard), half siblings Virginia, Joseph Jr., Edward B., and Jerry Townshend, and her niece, Margaret (Atwood) Schuster. She is survived by her niece, Miriam Elizabeth (Atwood) Massie (John), her nephew, Richard Edward Atwood (Susan), her dearest friend Sharon McCall, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Miriam was born in Memphis on March 6, 1935, where she grew up and attended Miss Hutchison School for Girls. Miriam enjoyed sports, especially tennis, as she ranked "Second in the South" in her youth. She attended Rhodes College and was a member of the Chi Omega Sorority. She worked as a medical technician for Baptist Memorial Hospital, and she was an active volunteer with Meals on Wheels for many years. In her 89 years, she enriched the many lives she touched and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.
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, TN, 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.
Walter J. “Mike” Michael Cody ’58
Memphis lawmaker Mike Cody passed September 15, 2024, at the age of 88, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. Mike graduated from East High School in 1954, Southwestern (now Rhodes College) in 1958, and the University of Virginia Law School in 1961. At Rhodes, he was a member of Alpha Epsilon Fraternity, Rhodes Men’s Track Team, Rhodes Student Government, ODK, and was an inductee to the Student Hall of Fame. He received an Honorary Degree in 1989. In 2016, Mike was named Distinguished Alumni of the Year.
Mike made a difference in Memphis during a a vital six-decade career in law, government, and politics. He joined Burch, Porter & Johnson in 1961 and was part of a legal team that represented Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the civil rights leader’s fateful final hours supporting striking Memphis sanitation workers. Soon after King’s assassination, Mike and Lucius Burch started Memphis Area Legal Services to give assistance to people unable to afford a lawyer.
Mike was elected to the Memphis City Council in 1975 and served on the council two years before President Jimmy Carter appointed him U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, a post he held until 1981. He was Attorney General of Tennessee from 1984 to 1988, arguing four cases before the U.S. Supreme Court during those years.
The dedicated public servant and civil rights champion was equally well-known in his city by his passion for running. He began running in high school, long before it was popular. While running with others, he often talked about history, philosophy and the many books he had read. He logged more than 80,000 miles, running well into his 80s, and while he competed in numerous races and marathons, a love of nature drew him to running paths and other outdoor pursuits. As an avid surfer, he took numerous trips to Hawaii. On diving trips to Yucatan, Mexico, he and Lucius Burch discovered sunken treasure. He rowed on the Mississippi River in his racing shell and hiked in the Colorado mountains over many summers with family and friends.
W. J. Michael Cody was predeceased by his parents, Walter James Cody Jr. and Bess Hill Cody. He is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Suzanna Marten Cody ’75; his daughters Jane Cody (Scott Simpson) of Corrales, New Mexico, and Mia Cody of Memphis; a son, Michael Cody (Nicole) of Germantown; three grandchildren, Catherine Simpson (Dylan Davis), Walker Simpson and William Simpson; and two great grandchildren. He also leaves a sister, Susan Cody (Jay Corsetti) of Vail, Colorado.
Dr. William “Bill” Weber ’59
Bill Carl Weber, M.D. entered the Church Triumphant on March 19, 2024. He was born in Wahoo, NE, December 6, 1937, was predeceased by his parents, Carl Willard and Mary Diantha Weber; a brother, Ben Walker Weber, and a son Benjamin Walker Weber (Chrissy). He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Vicki Smith Weber, his delightful daughter, Eliza Bentley Weber, and the joy of his life, a grandson, Beckett Reid Weber, both from Leeds, Alabama. Dr. Weber graduated from Central High School, Memphis in 1955, completed his premedical undergraduate education at Southwestern at Memphis College, and received his M.D. degree from the University of Tennessee School of Medicine, Memphis. Residency in internal medicine was completed in Memphis at Methodist Hospital and Veterans Administration Hospital.
He proudly served as a captain in the United States Army Medical Corps during the Vietnam War. For his service as Commanding Officer of his medical unit he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal. Dr. Weber practiced medicine for almost 50 year followed by joining the faculty of The Methodist Teaching Practice where he worked until retirement. He was a clinical assistant professor of medicine at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. He served in numerous leadership positions at Methodist University Hospital. He was a member of a variety of regional and national medical organizations and was a Fellow in the American College of Physicians.
In 2010, he was the recipient of the Methodist Hospital Living Award for Faith and Service. He had a passion for teaching and mentoring medical students, interns, residents and many others. He was an elder emeritus at Second Presbyterian Church where he had been a member since 1952. He served on the boards of Presbyterian Day School, The Christian Psychological Center, Young Life, Methodist Hospital Primary Care Associates and others. In addition he was a junior high school crossing guard and a high school hall monitor (Bill's humor)! He had an insatiable desire to know how things worked. In his youth he took apart many things but rarely but them back together: clocks, pianos, motors, radios and even a pump organ. He was fascinated with old cars and had several over his lifetime. He was the organizer supreme and seldom passed a day without a new list of things to do. He even had a list of the things he wanted to learn when he got to Heaven. He's probably checking off that list right now. He, with his wife, Vicki, served in numerous locations around the world providing health care to the underserved, teaching doctors and nurses and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with patients, staff and their families.
Junius E. Davidson III ’59
Junius "Junie" Edward Davidson, III died peacefully in his sleep at Trezevant Manor, in Memphis, on June 26, 2024. He was 87. He lived a full life – as an educator, expert amateur botanist and gardener, community leader, and with an exceptional devotion to his family. Junie was born in Talladega, AL, April 19, 1937, to Glenda DeLong and June E. Davidson, Jr. During the Second World War he lived on the Malden Army Airbase in southeast Missouri before moving to his father's hometown, Holly Grove, AR, population 600. In addition to normal "country kid" activities like huntin' and fishin', Junie had the only newspaper route in town and roamed the streets on his bicycle. He excelled as a student and athlete. After high school, 1955, the family moved to Memphis where he enrolled in Rhodes College (Southwestern) at Memphis where he played football, ran on the track team, majored in English, and was president of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. Upon graduation, in 1959, for several years, he taught at Presbyterian Day School (Memphis), Westminster School (Atlanta), and became Headmaster of St. George's Independent School (Germantown) beginning in 1965. During this period, he was also in the Air Force Reserve.
In 1965, he married the love of his life, Marilee Aycock, known by all as "Punk." They have two daughters, Shannon Davidson of Raleigh, North Carolina, and Lee Holt (Kevin) of Memphis, and four grandchildren, JJ Pflasterer, Joel Pflasterer, Dorothy Holt, and Charlie Holt. He has a brother, William V. Davidson ’62 (Sharon) of Memphis. His most serious hobby was gardening. Over the years he and Punk, both Master Gardeners, developed beautiful, formal gardens in their expansive backyard where they produced and gave away thousands of flowers. He enjoyed the Hosta Society, the Horticultural Society, the Memphis Botanic Garden, and especially his re-founding of the Mid-South Daffodil Society. He loved participating in the annual daffodil shows held at Dixon Gallery and Gardens.
Privately, he lectured to generations of young children to encourage their search for the “perfect daffodil.” Junie was always involved in community activities. For his final career, Schering Plough hired him to oversee their outreach efforts in Memphis. As Mr. Plough's director of community affairs and spokesperson, he was involved in many charitable and volunteerism projects throughout the Mid-South. He served on many not-for-profit boards in Memphis, including the Boys & amp, Girls Clubs, Leadership Memphis, and Junior Achievement of the Mid-South. He supported all his children's extracurricular activities, including horseback riding and taking advantage of any opportunity to coach any sport. His personal code matched that of St. George's: “be honest, dependable, and respectful; never lie cheat, steal, or excuse those behaviors in others.”
Dr. Westley F. Busbee ’61, P’89
Dr. Westley Floyd Busbee passed away peacefully at age 84 on July 20, 2024, in Alpharetta, GA, surrounded by his family. Wes Busbee was born on August 15, 1939, in Meridian, MS, to the late Pauline Simmons Busbee and Westley Floyd Busbee, Sr. Wes was the first of nine children, and after the rapidly growing family moved from Glade, MS, back to Meridian, he thrived in school and sports, graduating from high school with honors in 1957 and attending Meridian Community College before accepting a scholarship to Rhodes College (formally Southwestern at Memphis) in 1958. At Rhodes, he again excelled in academics and athletics, majoring in History, and leading the track team to conference titles. He was a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity, was named Mr. Southwestern, and was inducted Phi Beta Kappa before graduating in 1961. Wes received many of Rhodes highest accolades and honors, being named a member of the 1961 Rhodes College Hall of Fame and, years later, into the Rhodes Athletics Hall of Fame (in 2003). But his most significant accomplishment was gaining the affections of Stella Carol Bradshaw '62 from Osceola, Arkansas. Their loving marriage lasted 62 years.
After graduating from Rhodes, Wes attended the University of Alabama, where he received his doctorate in History. In 1968, after holding a position at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Wes and Carol returned to Mississippi when Wes accepted a position at Belhaven University (formerly Belhaven College). For 48 years, he served as Chair of the History Department and held several college-level leadership roles, including, for a time in the 1980s, Belhaven Athletic Director. In the 1970s and '80s, he served as the faculty advisor of Belhaven's chapter of the Model United Nations; he led travel study groups to China, England, Greece, Italy, and Mexico; and he was active in the Mississippi Historical Society, serving as President in 2009. Wes continued to be an active scholar late into his career, writing Mississippi: A History, in 2005 (2nd ed, 2014). Upon retirement in 2016, Wes was awarded the title of Professor Emeritus Outside of academic pursuits, Wes built scores of houses in Central Mississippi through his company Busbee-Russ Builders (later renamed Southeastern Constructors). Many of his projects were collaborations with the renowned architect Sambo Mockbee. During these busy years, Wes remained an active member, and served as elder, of the Presbyterian Church, first at Trinity Presbyterian, and later at Briarwood Presbyterian, both in Jackson.
All his life, Wes Busbee was a devoted and loving man, faithful to God and devoted to his family. He is survived by his wife Carol Busbee '62; his three children, Westleyan Busbee Killian (David), Jennifer Busbee Hunt '89 (McPhail ‘92), and Brad Busbee (Kathleen); ten grandchildren, Carol Killian Maher (Kevin), Westley Killian, Russell Killian (Hannah), Olivia Hunt, Celia Hunt, Brendan Hunt, Kamilla Busbee, Suzanna Busbee, Sadie Busbee, and Elias Busbee. He is survived also by six of his siblings, Rush Busbee, Kent Busbee, Lane Busbee, Philip Busbee, Robin McCarty, and Jeannine Bradley. Wes is preceded in death by his parents Pauline Busbee and Wes Busbee, Sr, as well as two of his siblings, Sherry Busbee and Mark Busbee.
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.'"
Helene N. Griffith ’62
Helene Ninette Griffith of Homewood, AL, passed away peacefully at her residence on the night of September 2, 2024. She was 84 years of age. Born on July 15, 1940, in Birmingham, Alabama, Helene was the daughter of the late Colonel William "Bill" E. Griffith, Jr. and Ninette Abernethy Griffith. She spent her childhood in Birmingham graduating from Brook Hill Preparatory School. In 1962, she earned her Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes College where she was a member of the Kappa Delta sorority. In 1965, she earned her Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance from the University of Memphis. Helene remained in Memphis and worked as a guidance counselor at White Station High School. Later, she returned to Birmingham working for the City of Homewood Streets & Sanitation Department and Sports First. She was a member of the Mayflower Descendants, the Daughters of the King, Ann Seaton Chapter, and was an avid Alabama fan. Helene was a devoted and faithful member of the church she loved, The Episcopal Church of the Ascension in Vestavia Hills, AL.
Dr. William “Bill” Cobb Johns ’63, P’94
William "Bill" Cobb Johns, Sr. went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Friday, August 23, 2024 He was born in Union City, TN, to Caswell Cobb and Florence English Johns. Bill moved to Memphis when he was 8 years old and graduated from White Station High School in 1959. He attended Southwestern at Memphis (Rhodes) and graduated from the University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy. While at Southwestern, he met his future wife, Barbara Yost, at the “freshman mixer.” Bill and Barbara married in 1963 and reached their 61st anniversary year on August 2, 2024.
Bill was the owner of Peoples Pharmacy on Jackson Avenue, which became Peoples Custom Rx when he became a compounding pharmacist. As the focus of his business changed the pharmacy was moved to Brookhaven Circle East. He remained its owner until 2016. Bill was committed to and faithful to service his customers, both human and animal. Often, he opened the store, regardless of the hours, whenever there was a patient's need. Among his various awards are "Preceptor of the Year" given by U.T.'s College of Pharmacy, Tennessee "Outstanding Pharmacist of the Year", in 2006 one of a very few innovative pharmacies in the country, and "Outstanding Small Business of the Year" in 2011.
Bill had a deep love for his LORD and his family. If he had a hobby, it was reading and studying his Bible. In addition to his wife, Barbara ‘63, Bill leaves three children: Bill (Luanne) Johns, Jr., Mike (Kelli) Johns, and Jennifer ‘94 (Jeremy) Wilkes. Also, left to miss him are his grandchildren Kelcie (Jake) Craft, Leah (Austin) Powell, Issac, Olivia, Elizabeth, Michael (Caroline), Will, Sarah, Andrew Johns, Rachel, and Joshua Wilkes. And too, he adored his great-grandchildren, Henry, Lucy, Ellie, Thomas, Annie, and Levi. As an only child, Bill has left a wonderful heritage.
Dr. Charles W. McCrary ’63
Charles Walker McCrary died peacefully on August 16, 2024, at age 83. For those of you who knew Charlie, you'll appreciate that he wrote his own obituary. This is not it. Charlie, the son of the late William Witherspoon McCrary and Marjorie Walker McCrary, grew up in the small town of Lonoke, AR. Charlie relished small-town life and loved sharing his extensive repertoire of stories, both funny and poignant, about growing up in Lonoke. He duck hunted before school, swam at the local fish hatchery, and warmed the bench for the Lonoke Jackrabbit football team. Charlie attended Southwestern College, now Rhodes, graduating in the class of 1963 with a B.A. in Biology and an associate degree in SAE. He graduated at the top of his class at UT's College of Dentistry and earned an MA in Pediatric Dentistry in 1971. He practiced pediatric dentistry for 40 years, and countless former patients attest that, while most people dread going to the dentist, they loved dental visits because of Dr. Charlie. He was known for going the extra mile for patients, rushing to his office for dental emergencies and examining the chipped teeth of neighborhood children on his front porch. He served his profession as President of the Memphis Dental Society in 2001, professor in UT's College of Dentistry and member of the ADA, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and the Tennessee Society of Pediatric Dentistry.
During his senior year in dental school, Charlie wooed fellow Rhodes alum, Janie Stone, with his small-town charm. They were married in 1967 and shared a lifetime of adventure with friends in Memphis and beyond. They hiked the Milford Track in New Zealand, the Pembrokeshire Coast in Wales, and heli-hiked the trails of British Columbia, among others. Together, they visited 49 of the 50 states and traveled extensively, exploring such diverse locales as the Serengeti plains and the Amazonian jungle. At heart, Charlie was an avid biologist, a gifted birder and lifetime lover of nature. Along with a dedicated group of birder friends and spouses, he reveled in the sight or call of a new bird. He relished passing this love to his grandchildren, teaching them to focus binoculars, peer through a microscope and scan the night sky. He was a life member of the TN Ornithological Society and the Wolf River Conservancy. Charlie was a devoted Presbyterian, tracing his roots back to John Knox, and could be found every Sunday in "the McCrary pew" at Idlewild Presbyterian Church. At Idlewild, Charlie served as a ruling elder and trustee, chaired numerous church committees and was a founding member of the Timothy Class of "seekers." He volunteered for many years with Idlewild's More Than a Meal, at MIFA and at the Hospitality Hub, serving on its board as well as on the boards of the Pink Palace Museum and the Metal Museum. An avid reader, particularly of history, Charlie enjoyed membership in the Swamp Jackson Book Club and the Central Gardens men's book club.
Charlie was devoted to his family and treasured his time with them. He leaves his wife Janie ‘65, two children, Ellen McCrary Hainen (Mike) and Jonathan Walker McCrary (Jackie), as well as five greatly loved grandchildren, Will, Brooks and Eliza Hainen, and Bates and Griffin McCrary. He also leaves a beloved sister, Ann McSwain of Little Rock, AR.
Emily Hatcher Landreth ’63, P’87
Emily Hatcher Landreth passed away on July 2nd, 2024, at Westminster Oaks in Tallahassee, FL. Emily was born December 18, 1941, in Knoxville, TN, to Charles U. Hatcher and Edith Jodelle Hatcher. She was a graduate of Treadwell High School, Memphis, TN. She attended Rhodes College where she was a member of the KD Sorority. She later graduated from Florida State University in Tallahassee, FL. Emily had a career as a mathematics teacher in Tallahassee, teaching at Leon High School, Godby High School, and Tallahassee Community College for nearly 40 years. After retiring from teaching, Emily worked part-time for H&R Block, where she took great joy in hearing life stories and guiding clients through the practical math of tax preparation. Emily was famously frugal but was generous with her time and committed to friendships lasting decades. Her friends have known her for a very long time. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church (Tallahassee) for over 50 years. She served in many ways in the church and was a regular counter of the worship offering. She played the piano, learning the instrument as a child from her mother who was a church organist. A bridge foursome was always on her calendar and was one of her favorite ways to socialize.
She is survived by her brother Buddy Hatcher and wife Catherine, Knoxville, TN; two sons Greg Landreth, Tallahassee, FL, and Charlie Landreth ‘87 and wife Andi Williams ‘88, Brevard, NC; and grandchildren Noah and Celia Landreth, Brevard, NC. Arrangements are by Bevis Funeral Home, Tallahassee, FL.
Rev. Daniel Gilchrist IV ’63
Daniel "Dan" Gilchrist IV died peacefully at home on June 9, 2024, at the age of 83. He was born on May 2, 1941, in Decatur, AL, to parents Martha Ann Fowler Gilchrist and Daniel "Dan” Gilchrist III. He grew up in Courtland, Alabama, having many adventures with dear friends on the family farm and came to have a deep abiding connection to the land and the farm - one of the great loves of his life. In 1957, at age 16, he left Courtland for Chattanooga where he spent his high school years at McCallie School for boys. While there, on a weekend trip home for a dance, Dan was first introduced to Scott Patterson, Walter Murphy, and Foster Barnwell. They, along with Terry Smith who was also at McCallie School (all from the Florence, Alabama area), became fast friends and remained so for the rest of Dan's life. After completing high school, Dan went to Southwestern at Memphis where he joined the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, studied German, served as the editor of the college yearbook, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in German in 1963. It was during his time at Southwestern that he first traveled abroad, spending time in Austria studying German, and developing what became another of his great loves: traveling and planning trips. After college, Dan went Ole Miss to continue his German studies and teach German to undergraduate students. It was here that he met Carolyn Bickerstaff, who was doing post-graduate study in French. They were introduced in August 1963, had their first date in December, and she became his wife eight months later in August 1964. Dan said many times in his last months that she was the "greatest love of his life." They would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in August of this year.
After marrying in Oxford, Dan and Carolyn moved to San Antonio, TX, for Dan to begin training with the United States Air Force. His time in the Air Force was cut short by an accident, and he moved back to Courtland to join his father for what would be a 17-year-long career in farming. He farmed primarily cotton and soybeans and started a Massey-Ferguson tractor supply company which he ran for the entirety of his farm career. During that time Dan and Carolyn welcomed into their family their three children, Katie, Daniel, and Lillian. Around 1980, Dan began to feel the Lord's call to go into ministry. He resisted for a time, but finally realized that "resistance is futile" (he was a big Star Trek fan) and moved the family to Jackson, MS so he could attend Reformed Theological Seminary. He served on the mission field in Quito, Ecuador for the summer of 1983, and years later in Prague, Czechoslovakia, when he traveled there with his devoted friend and elder in the church, Billy Sudduth. After completing seminary in 1984, he was called to preach at the Carthage Presbyterian Church where he served as pastor for 22 years, until his retirement in 2006. Dan was a gifted businessman, serving on the Board for The Carthage Bank for many years, and after his retirement establishing a real estate rental company together with his daughter Lillian and her husband David Thomas.
Dan was an avid traveler – both in the United States and abroad. He loved planning trips, and he was good at it. During his years in Carthage, he and Carolyn began traveling the world. He named his "venture" European Adventures Ltd. and took his children and Carthage friends on trips to England, Scotland, France, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. It was on an ill-fated detour into Italy that Dan, known to all as an overly cautious (and slow) driver, got his first and maybe only speeding ticket of his life. We all still laugh. He and Carolyn later led student trips with high schoolers from Carthage and Louisville to many of the same locations. Dan's children all credit him with instilling in them a life-long interest in travel. Dan loved airplanes and flying. He loved model trains. He loved boats and the Alabama gulf coast and fishing with his buddies. He loved the Tennessee River and spent much time as a young man exploring it in his first boat, Pyewacket. He loved his Scottish ancestry and wore with pride his MacLachlan tartan kilt. Most of all, he loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and we are thankful to know that he is now in Heaven, freed from the struggles of life in this broken world.
Dan is survived by his wife, Carolyn, his three children, Kathryn "Katie" Gilchrist (Madison, Ms.), Daniel Gilchrist V (Blair) (Chantilly, Va.), and Lillian Gilchrist Thomas (David) (Carthage, Ms.), five amazing grandchildren, James and Joshua Gilchrist and Sara, Meg, and John David Thomas, his five spoiled cats (Oliver, Marty, Ming, Oreo, and Mex), his devoted German Shepherd (Addy), and many dear friends.
John C. Peacock '64
John “Johnny” Calvin Peacock, a Dothan resident, died on May 22, 2024. He was 83 years old. Johnny was born on March 30, 1941, in Shreveport, LA. He is preceded in death by his parents Worth and Lois Peacock, his brother Jimmy Peacock, his aunt Dottie Livingston, his wife Lana Leigh Peacock, and many beloved family pets, including J.J., Precious, Su Ling, Miss Muffins, Teddy Bear, and Koogle. Johnny moved with his family to Alabama from Louisiana in 1947, initially residing in Pinckard before moving to Dothan. Growing up in Dothan, he had a pet alligator named Ally Alligator who lived in a shoe box and was fed hamburger meat and fresh flies. When Johnny was 13 years old, he killed a huge rattlesnake that was threatening travelers on a thoroughfare in Mariana, FL. He was active in the Boy Scouts and served as a counselor at Camp Rotary. In 1955, he obtained the rank of Eagle Scout. Johnny met his wife Lana in high school, and they were married for 63 years. Lana unexpectedly passed away on February 6, 2024, while caring for Johnny in his battle with cancer. After graduating from Dothan High School, Johnny attended Georgia Tech, Southwestern at Memphis, and he received his B.S. from Troy State University. He also served in the United States Air Force.
Johnny, who was a land surveyor, formed Surveying, Inc., a land surveying company, in the 1970s, and he worked in Alabama and Florida. He graduated from Faulkner University Thomas Goode Jones School of Law in December 1998 after starting law school part time in his fifties. He was admitted to the State Bar of Alabama in April 1999. Johnny established his own law practice and provided legal services to clients in a variety of areas, including bankruptcy, criminal defense, property disputes, and tax law. Johnny was a devoted husband and father, and he had a soft spot in his heart for animals, including turtles trying to make their way across busy roads, orphaned baby birds, and Shih Tzu dogs on death row at the pound. He made delicious baked beans, enjoyed playing Sudoku, reading John Grisham novels, and watching James Bond movies, westerns, and Perry Mason. Johnny is survived by sons John Ashley Peacock (Tallahassee, FL), and Shea Peacock (Boston, MA).
Patricia “Trisha” Bryan Whyte Edington ’64
Patricia Bryan Whyte Edington, known to one and all as Trisha, was born on January 23, 1943, and returned to the arms of her Lord on April 30, 2024. There are so many stories that we could tell about Trisha. We hope to pay homage to her by sharing with you what an inspiration she has been to all of us: her lifetime love affair with Howard; her lifetime of loving Jesus Christ; and the lifelong friendships she treasured. This tribute is to you, dearest Tweezie. Hope you approve.
Trisha is survived by her husband and the love of her life, J. Howard Edington; daughters Meg Sefton and Beth Hewitt, grandchildren Hunter, Penn, and Sarah Beth and 4 brothers. She was predeceased by her son, John David. She never knew her father Horace Whyte, but always wished that she had. He died when she was 10 months old and then she and her mother moved to Shreveport, LA, where her mother's parents lived. Her mother remarried and from that marriage came four magnificent younger brothers, Frank, Bob, Bill, and David. Trisha had an outsized role to play in the childhood experiences of those four brothers and they all remain extremely close to this day.
Trisha graduated from Byrd High School in Shreveport, LA, and Rhodes College in Memphis, TN where she met her future husband, Howard, during the first week of their freshman year. But it wasn't until 3 years later they had their first date. And Howard was her third date that night! It would be an understatement to say that Trisha was instrumental in Howard's calling as a minister of the Gospel. Trisha and Howard would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in December of this year. In describing her, Howard referred to Trisha as "the great lady" and told everyone, "I believed she was the most beautiful girl in the world. And I still do." Trisha and Howard engaged in a nearly sixty-year partnership in ministry where Trisha played a pivotal role in every aspect of their ministerial life together-in the United States and overseas. Howard preached in 46 states and 23 foreign countries. Together they served churches in Kilgore, Texas; Columbia, SC; Pine Bluff, AR; Orlando, FL; Hilton Head Island, SC; New York City, and Houston.
A Bible scholar in her own right, Trisha had a great love for both the English language and the language of God. She was a terrific teacher in both areas. When she taught the Bible, people flocked to hear her because of the passion she had for Scripture. And when she taught courses, like Christian doctrine, people were astounded at the depth of theology they gleaned from her mind and heart. Oh Yes! Trisha will be greatly missed by so many of us who were moved by her faith. In her final days, while she could no longer speak, she found a clear way to deliver a powerful message to her family and friends. She pointed to a picture of her son, John David, and picked it up. We think she was trying to tell us, "It's ok. I'm soon going to see my beloved son, and God's beloved Son." We bid you farewell, sweet Trisha. Thanks to your amazing resurrection faith, you could be fearless even in the face of death.
Carter C. Osterbind, III ’65
Carter Clarke Osterbind III, professor emeritus at Jacksonville State University, passed away at age 81 from complications associated with melanoma. He was a prolific painter and visual artist whose legacy will endure through his art. Carter grew up in Gainesville, FL, where his father worked as an economics professor at the University of Florida; he spent his summers with family in Blacksburg, VA. A celebrated high school athlete, an injury shifted Carter's path to Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee where he earned a degree in English Literature. After college, he spent three years as a Naval officer during the Vietnam war. While on tour, he was assigned the collateral duty of ship's photographer, which he always credited with turning his attention towards art. After the service, Carter applied to law school but not before taking a few art courses.
Those few art courses determined the trajectory of the rest of his life, and he went on to earn his B.F.A., M.Ed., and M.F.A. from the University of Florida. While he was pursuing his M.F.A., Carter met his wife of 43 years, Kelly (MacMillan) .They married in 1980 and moved to Jacksonville, AL, after Carter secured a teaching position at Jacksonville State University. Primarily a painter, Carter also taught drawing, photography and making over his 28 years at the University. Carter often reminisced fondly about teaching and how his students were a constant source of visual interest. Carter was active in the civil rights movement during his college days in Memphis, which he credited with making him a lifelong Democrat.
He was a die-hard Florida Gators football fan. He read the New Yorker magazine every week and was a surprisingly good dancer. His cheerful and optimistic disposition made him a kind and patient grandfather. Carter is survived by his wife Kelly, his six children and eight grandchildren: Reilly Kimmerling, her husband Kevin and their children Charlotte, Finn and Henry; Mary Moerlins, her husband Mike and their children Lucy and Jack; Walter Osterbind, his wife Margaret and their children Frances and Louis; Thomas Osterbind, his wife Yanina and their daughter Ruby; Audrey Osterbind and her husband Hayagriv Sridharan; and Sharon Osterbind and her partner Kristen Coffey. Carter is preceded in death by his sisters Rosilie Saffos (1984) and Ellen Jonassen (2013).
Fay Milner Reed ’65
In the early morning hours of August 21st as a full moon was shining brightly, Fay peacefully went to join the Lord and her loved ones that passed before her. Fay was a sixth generation Memphian, born at Eglin Air Force base May 26th, 1943, to the late Robert Rutherford Milner and the late Fay Wade Milner Stewart. She attended school at a convent in France her senior year of high school, which sparked her love for travel and adventures abroad. Fay attended Rhodes College before relocating to Laurel, Mississippi, in the early seventies. There she raised her three children and embraced the local community. Over the course of four decades, she was a member of the Junior Auxiliary, Arts League, The Garden Club of America, and served as a board member at the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. Fay was an active member of Saint John’s Episcopal Church. This will be her final resting place.
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 U.S. 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 Master’s 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.
Amiel J. Dent ’67
Amiel Joseph "Joe" Dent, age 79, of Knoxville, TN, passed away at home on Thursday, July 4, 2024. Joe was born in Memphis, TN on April 2, 1945. He recently celebrated 50 years of marriage to his wife Mary Ann. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Regina Dent. Joe was a member and a deacon of First Baptist Church Knoxville and a member of the Money Sunday School class. He received his bachelor’s degree from Rhodes College and earned his master’s degree at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He was a lifelong educator, retiring as principal of Rocky Hill Elementary after 35 years with the Knox County School system. In addition to his wife, Joe is survived by his daughter Julia Ann Greer (Kevin), two grandsons, Alex Sink (David Sink) and Leo Greer, and numerous extended family.
Diane Fuller Seal ’67
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.
Donald M. Hollingsworth ’67
Donald Michael Hollingsworth died on July 16th, 2024. Don was born in Little Rock, AR, on January 12, 1945. He is survived by his wife, Leslie Havens Hollingsworth, stepdaughter Elizabeth Gitchel, brother Cyril Hollingsworth ’64 (Betsy), nephew David Hollingsworth, niece Katie Mullen (Rich, Blaise, Piper) and brother-in-law Robert Havens. He was preceded in death by his parents, Beth Bevill Hollingsworth and Cyril Hollingsworth, Sr.
He graduated from LRCHS, Rhodes College, and Vanderbilt Law School. He was the Central quarterback, basketball co-captain, and member of record setting relay teams. He graduated from Rhodes with Distinction in History and is a member of the Rhodes Hall of Fame. His commitment to nonviolence and justice is reflected by his volunteer activities and employment history. In 1962, he appeared in a CBS News Special in support of school integration, and he participated in the Second King March in Memphis April 1968. And he volunteered for civilian service as a conscientious objector, working with emotionally disturbed boys in Texas.
Don began his legal career in 1972 with Memphis Legal Services. In 1978, he returned to Little Rock and served 18 years as the Executive Director of the Center for Ark Legal Services. Thereafter, he was the Executive Director of the Ark Bar Association until 2007. He worked to improve the legal system and to secure the legal rights of low-income persons. In the 1970's he was the attorney for thousands of handicapped children in Tennessee who were being denied equal educational opportunities. The TN Association for Children with Learning Disabilities honored him with its Special Award of Merit. He testified before Congress in support of the Education of All Handicapped Children Act. In the 1980's he was a leader in efforts to maintain federal funding for civil legal services. During the years 1998-2000 he worked behind the scenes in helping secure legislative referral and voter passage of Amendment 80 (new Judicial Article) to the Ark Constitution.
He served on the governing bodies of numerous organizations, including Ark Center for Health Improvement, Volunteers Organization for Central Ark Legal Services, Ark Bar Association, Ark Access to Justice Foundation, Faith Voices Ark, ACLU of Ark, Memphis Planned Parenthood, and Ark IOLTA Foundation. He was a Fellow of the Ark Bar Foundation and recipient of its Equal Justice Distinguished Service Award. Don was an Elder at Second Presbyterian Church and served on the outreach and worship ministries, Social Justice Committee, and RAIN care team.
Leslie and Don enjoyed traveling with friends, playing tennis and bridge, and volunteering in political campaigns for progressive candidates. During retirement Don participated in several tennis, golf and poker groups.
Sue Bogard Dodd ’67
Sue Bogard Dodd passed away on August 6, 2024, at the age of 81. Born in West Memphis, AR, on June 1, 1943, to Ed Bogard and Betty Bogard Buchanan. Sue was a lifelong educator, devout Christian, and beloved mother and grandmother. After graduating from West Memphis High School, she attended the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville, where she was a proud member of Kappa Kappa Gamma; Southwestern at Memphis (now Rhodes College); and Memphis State University, where she received both a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Education. Sue was always proud of her education and was known in her family for her sharp mind and quick wit. She had a varied, impressive career as an educator and served as the Principal of Holy Cross Day School, where she also taught math and Spanish. She was a guidance counselor at Earle High School and eventually the Director of Adult Education at Mid-South Community College-ASU Mid-South. Sue was an avid reader and loved to gift books to anyone she met.
In her retirement, she enjoyed baking for others and made her famous lemon pound cake for many a bank teller, pharmacist, and family gathering. Sue suffered from Alzheimer's in the final years of her life and her family is grateful for the compassionate care she received at Quail Ridge Assisted Living & Memory Care. She was preceded in death by her younger sister, Kathy Bogard Page and is survived by her two daughters, Debbie (Macky) Sneed of Memphis, TN, Dana (Brad) Gardner of Germantown, TN; her niece, Tracy Ediger of Monterey, CA and nephew, Ryan Rodgers of Boise, ID; her six grandchildren, Adam (Anna) Sneed, Will (Natalie) Sneed, Sarah (Dylan) Sneed Waxler, Tyler Nelson, Conner Nelson and Alex Nelson, and four great-grandchildren.
Rosemary Wood Potter ’70
Rosemary Wood Potter, 75, of Memphis, TN, loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, passed peacefully from this life into the loving arms of the Lord on March 18, 2024. Rosemary was born on December 9, 1948, to the late Charles Rowe Wood and Rose Griffin Wood. Rosemary graduated from Southwestern at Memphis (Rhodes College), where she was chosen Miss Southwestern of 1970 and served as President of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority.
After graduation, she was hired by First National Bank of Memphis (First Horizon Bank) as a management trainee and rose in the ranks due to her vivacious personality, rollicking sense of humor, quick wit, and attention to detail. In 1973, she was appointed as its first female branch manager. Later, she was appointed as its first female Personnel Director, but missing regular contact with the public, she soon moved to Private Client Services, where she served her customers for many years. She was later Senior Vice President and Private Banker at Regions Bank. In 2007, she was selected by Memphis Woman magazine as one of "50 Women Who Make a Difference.”
Rosemary retired in 2008 to take care of her husband Mike, who was seriously ill at the time, until his recovery. Rosemary was a true servant leader. She served on many nonprofit boards, including the Exchange Club, Room in the Inn, and Wesley Housing Advisory Board. She was an active member of Trinity United Methodist Church where she served as Chair of Finance and was involved in many of its ministries, including a monthly Manna on Monday food ministry and Room in the Inn ministry to the unhoused one night each week during the winter months, often spending the night at the church to care for the overnight guests. Her caring heart knew no boundaries. Rosemary is survived by her loving husband of 51 years, Mike Potter; two sons, David (Stephanie) Potter and Jeff (Leslie) Potter; brother, Chuck Wood; sister and brother in law, Rebecca and Fred Gerendasy; grandsons, Finnegan and Sullivan Potter; niece, Taylor Wood Kroenig; and nephews, Sam Wood and Sam, Tom, and Dan Gerendasy.
Evan W. Murray ’74
Dr. Evan William Murray of Memphis, TN, died peacefully on Monday, July 15, 2024, at the Memphis Jewish Home. Dr. Murray, who was 71 years old, was the son of Dr. Murray Nathaniel Murray and Beatrice Engelberg Murray. Evan graduated from White Station High School, Southwestern College (now known as Rhodes College) and medical school at East Tennessee State University. Dr. Murray was an infectious disease specialist in private practice for many years prior to his retirement. He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Murray Nathaniel Murray, his mother, Beatrice Engelberg Murray, and his brother Dr. Gary Lee Murray (Lisa). He is survived by his two brothers, Dr. Ian Murray, and Robert Murray (Marianne), both of Memphis, and seven nieces and nephews.
Evan was a lover of all animals and always had cats and dogs as pets. He had an infectious laugh, and he greatly enjoyed being around family and friends and going to sporting events of all kinds before his health problems limited his activities. Evan loved all sports, especially the University of Memphis Tigers where he attended both football and basketball games for over 50 years. He played college baseball for Southwestern College and enjoyed doing the play-by-play announcing for the university's football and basketball games. He coached baseball for many years at Temple Israel. Many of his former players are now in their 60's. Evan also loved playing fast-pitch softball.
Martha Suggs Drexler ’74
Martha Parman Sugg Drexler went peacefully to the Lord on May 30, 2024. She spent her last days at the Baptist Reynolds Hospice House in Collierville, TN. She was born January 7, 1952, in Nashville, TN to Lena Mildred Parman Sugg and Robert Oliver Sugg. She is survived by her husband Dennis Steven Drexler, her daughter Allison Parman Drexler Souvigney, son-in-law Alex Ross Souvigney, grandson Henry Alex Souvigney, sister Nancy Lee Sugg Bracher, and nieces Elizabeth Bracher Sullivan and Victoria Corinne Bracher.
She attended Southwestern at Memphis (Rhodes College), graduating in 1974 with a degree in biology. She began working at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital where she met her husband, Dennis. In 1980, she switched careers to become a Certified Public Accountant. She spent more than 40 years in the field working for such companies as Arthur Andersen, Holiday Inn, Federal Express and Hilton Corporation, among others.
A proud resident of Germantown, TN since 1986, she was a devoted member of the Germantown Presbyterian Church and very active in the choir, where she made many treasured friends. Martha was an avid reader, with an extensive library, and she had hopes of being a published author in her retirement. In earlier days she enjoyed tennis and played for her high school and college tennis teams. She also liked gardening, journaling, music, genealogy, horseback riding, and traveling, but was always open to pursue new interests. Her greatest joys were raising her daughter Allison, and in the past year becoming "Grandmommie" and spending much time with her grandson in his first year. She was a generous person, always thinking of other people’s needs before her own. She also took great joy in sharing others’ triumphs and happiness. As she always said, "I'm here to serve." She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Milton Scott Turner ’75
Milton Scott Turner, Jr., was born and raised in Brownsville, TN, to Shirley Lynn Brandon and Milton Scott Turner. Scott's young life revolved around football, specifically playing football for the Haywood County Tomcats. He was proud to play both offense and defense. During Scott's Tomcat years, the team won three state championships. Nicknamed "Mad Dog", Scott played with a passion that continued through his life as a rabid University of Tennessee football fan. Scott continued playing football in college and graduated from Southwestern (now Rhodes College).
Possibly his most interesting post-college job was being a roadie for Lynyrd Skynyrd. This was the job he was least likely to discuss with his mother. Scott's "adult" job was as a food and equipment sale-person for Hardin's Sysco in Memphis, where he remained until retirement. Scott was predeceased by both of his parents, a special aunt and uncle, Genie and J.B. Hill, and his first cousin and friend, Jim Hill. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; son, Corey Crowder (Kate) of Memphis; three delightful and entertaining grandchildren, Oliver, Polly and Robin; brothers (best friends), Mark (Kim) of Collierville, Clay (Sandy) of Kentucky; a sister, Sandra Kemp of New Mexico; first cousin, Lina Hill of Jackson and a vast array of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and a whole new crop of grandnieces and grandnephews. A special shout-out goes to Scott's lifelong friends from Haywood High: Edwin, Barrow, Steve, Louis, Jim, Mark S., John and John W.
Patricia “Trish” Potts Aldredge ’76
Patricia Potts Aldredge was born March 24, 1954, in Dallas, TX to parents William Gano and Patsie Northcutt Potts. Trish Aldredge was a loving wife, a caring mother, a faithful sister, and a loyal friend. She grew up as a 4th generation native of Dallas, Texas where she loved riding horses on her family’s farm. She went to The Hockaday School where she was president of the Athletic Board and an avid field hockey player. She was a champion backpacker and loved attending Cheley Colorado Camps in the Summer. She attended college at Southwestern at Memphis (now Rhodes College) and Vanderbilt University, and the friendships she gained there continue to this day. She always loved to give of herself, participating in the Junior League of Dallas and volunteering for over a decade with Habitat for Humanity.
On June 14th, 1980, she married the love of her life Thom Aldredge, bringing together the lines of the Gano, Scurry, Potts, Spence, Munger and Aldredge families. In their 44 years of marriage together they raised three children and welcomed four grandchildren. Wherever she went she was a faithful supporter, from being head of the PTA for St John’s Episcopal School to teaching Sunday school at Highland Park United Methodist Church to acting as Treasurer for the Shakespeare Club of Dallas. She was Trish to her friends, Mom to her kids and “GiGi” to her grandkids, a nickname she chose herself that stands for “Gorgeous Grandmother.” She will be remembered as someone who cared for her friends, was always there for her sisters, loved her mother and father well, adored her kids and grandkids, and showed great pride for all her extended family.
She will be missed from the waters of Lake Texoma, where she spent so many days making memories, water skiing and relaxing with friends and family. She will be missed from state and national parks across the nation, where she and Thom ventured with their camper to enjoy the beautiful scenery and quiet nights. She will be missed from the home where she loved to host, with her elegant tablescapes, perfect twice baked potatoes, and the feeling of love and comfort whenever you walked through the door. She will be missed from these places but never forgotten. Trish is survived by her husband Thomas H Aldredge; children Will Aldredge (Emily), Adrienne Aldredge (Juan Maldonado), Marshall Aldredge (Natalie); grandchildren August and Simon Maldonado, Oliver and Finley Aldredge; Mother Patsie Northcutt Potts, sisters Martha Shipley (Les), Liz Tutt (Graham), Nancy Luce (Ken), Mie Bjork Lundquist (AFS ‘sister’ from Sweden). She was preceded in death by her father William Gano Potts.
Dr. Mark S. Young ’76
Dr. Mark Scott Young, 71, passed away on July 19, 2024. He was born in Little Rock, AR; son of the late Marie and Perry Young. He attended Hall High School before further pursuing his education at Southwestern (Rhodes), where he graduated in 1976. It was in Memphis that he met Susan, his dedicated and loving wife of over 48 years. After completing medical school at UAMS College of Medicine in Little Rock, Dr. Young returned to Memphis to begin his career in Internal Medicine at St. Francis Hospital, where he dedicated himself to caring for patients for four decades. He was admired and respected by his colleagues and patients for his expertise, compassion, and devotion to his profession. Outside of his medical career, he enjoyed time spent outdoors and fly fishing with his friends and family. He also enjoyed watching college sports and had an amazing recollection of historical sports occurrences. But most of all, he enjoyed being with his family.
He was very proud of the two daughters and son that he and Suzy lovingly cared for and raised, and his face would light up with a huge smile anytime he was talking about them. He considered them his proudest accomplishment in his 71 years of life. Dr. Young will be remembered for his kindness, captivating laugh, impressive intelligence, dedication to his patients, and his love for his family. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Susan Winston Young, his daughters Jennifer Young and Margo Domico (Adam), his son Winston Young, his granddaughter Sophia Domico, and his sister, Lisa Young Joyce (Dan) of Little Rock, AR.
Joyce C. Broffitt ’77
The Hon. Joyce Cassandra Broffitt was born on September 20, 1955, in Covington, TN. She departed this life on August 23, 2024, and was preceded in death by her mother, Dorothy Broffitt, and her brothers James Kenneth Broffitt and Howard Natali Sanford. Joyce leaves to cherish her loving memory: her siblings Samuel Broffitt ‘75 (Linda) of Arlington, TN, Michael Broffitt (Lilly) of Kissimmee, FL, the Rev. Dr. Jo Ann Baldwin of Kosciusko, MS, Michelle Sanford of Nashville, TN, and Juana Sanford Fleary of North Chesterfield, VA; her many nieces and nephew; and her niece Kimberly Nicole Broffitt, who was more like her daughter. Although she did not have any biological children or grandchildren, her great-niece Taelyn Lyons was like a granddaughter to her. She also leaves to cherish her goddaughter, Britney Hughes, a special friend, Clarence Dowell, and a host of other relatives and friends.
Judge Broffitt was born and raised in Tipton County, TN. Growing up, she was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Mason, TN. She attended Fields Elementary School. She was a 1973 graduate of Covington High School. From 1973 to 1977, Joyce continued her education at Rhodes College (formerly Southwestern at Memphis) where she had a major in psychology. From 1982 to 1986, she attended the Cecil C. Humphrey school of Law where she obtained her juris doctorate with academic honors. Joyce has quoted that her "experience in law school was one of the highlights of her life".
While in law school, Joyce worked as a pretrial counselor with Shelby County pretrial services from 1983 to 1988. In 1987, she was admitted to the Tennessee Bar. From 1989 until 1996, she served as the assistant district attorney for Shelby County District Attorney's Office. In 1996 she was appointed by the Shelby County commission as criminal court judge for general sessions division nine to serve out the rest of Judge Ingram's term. Subsequently, she was re-elected to that position two times until her retirement in August 2014. She also served as the judge for the Tennessee Court of the Judiciary. In addition to her outstanding career accomplishments in law, she was extremely involved in the community. She was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; she served on the Board of Trustees for Rhodes College from 1997 until 2003; and she served on the Board of Directors for youth villages from 2001 until 2010. In her spare time, she enjoyed grilling food and spending time with her family.
Terry Lynn Boudreaux ’78
Terry Boudreaux, of Hot Springs Village, AR, and Galveston, TX, was carried on the wings of angels to the celestial realm on the night of July 31st, 2024, at National Park Medical Center in Hot Springs after a brief illness. Terry was born in Little Rock, AR, and raised in a loving family, headed by her mother, the late Terry Lou (Geater) Osment. She graduated from Mount St. Mary's Academy for Girls in Little Rock in 1974 and went on to earn her B.A. in Art History with distinction from Rhodes College (formerly Southwestern at Memphis) in 1978, and a B.S. in Graphic Design and Illustration from Arkansas State University in 1985. She was also a graduate of the Strategic Marketing Program at Rice University in 1993. Highly intelligent, intellectually and spiritually curious, beautiful, kind, sociable, spirited, artistically talented, and possessing a superior wit and lively sense of humor, Terry was a self-styled goddess in human form. She loved her family and friends, traveling, animals, nature, art and design, a good laugh, a great party (especially if costumes were involved), a lively debate, and the esoteric arts. She was truly one of a kind and beloved by those lucky enough to know her. In her working life, Terry was a consummate marketing and graphic design professional. A talented artist and writer, she excelled at illustration and copywriting, earning a Copywriter Award of Excellence from the Art Directors Club of Houston in 1998.
She held positions at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, managing their Biomedical Illustration Department, and was the Senior Editor at ICIS-LOR in Houston. After ICIS-LOR was purchased by another firm, Terry launched a successful freelance business writing and marketing practice. Terry met the love of her life, David Tolley, in Houston, Texas in 1993. They married the following year and spent 27 wonderful years together, traveling the world, socializing, engaging in merriment and building a life together before Dave's untimely death from leukemia in December of 2020. Terry was heartbroken at his loss. The fact they are now reunited brings comfort to their family and friends that mourn them. After Dave's passing, Terry forged a new life in both Hot Springs Village (HSV) and Galveston. She was an active member of the HSVPlayers, acting in several of their productions. She maintained an active lifestyle hiking and engaging in community exercise programs. She pursued her lifelong love of painting, crafts and journal writing, and she continued to travel, both domestically and internationally. Making friends wherever she went, Terry maintained a wide and loving social circle.
Terry is survived by her devoted brother, Mike (Phyllis) Boudreaux of Forest, VA.; siblings-in-law Luis (Lisa Kramer) Tolley of Port Townsend, WA., Lisa Alber of Nashua, NH and Paul (Holly) Tolley of Weston, MA.; cousin-in-law Rhonda (Steven Hamlet) Richardson of Forest, VA; adored nieces and nephews and extended family members; and, numerous cherished friends. She also leaves behind her treasured cats, Zsa Zsa and Garfield. In addition to her beloved husband and mother, Terry is predeceased by her cherished uncle, William "Bill" Geater; her maternal grandparents Thomas and Velma (Blackstock) Geater; and, her treasured pets, Zach, Neige, Pyewacket, and Zephyr.
Christopher Lee Sanders ’90
Christopher Lee Sanders, MD, died peacefully at home on Thursday, August 22, 2024, following a lengthy and courageous battle with multiple sclerosis at the age of 55 years old. Born in New Orleans on November 5,1968, and raised in Nashville, TN, by his parents, Diane and Dr. Stan Sanders, Chris shared his father’s passion for academics. Upon graduation from Montgomery Belle Academy in Nashville, Chris went on to earn his bachelor’s degree at Rhodes College and later attended medical school at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis. Chris completed his General Surgery residency at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans, and it was here that he found his love for south Louisiana culture and hospitality. Chris would go on to become an emergency medicine physician in rural Acadiana medical centers and later a partner at Acadiana Wound Care and Hyperbaric in Crowley, LA. He planted his roots in Eunice and built a life that focused on family and helping those in his community. Chris was quickly taken in by the good people of south Louisiana, where they shared interests in family life, hunting, and cooking. A skilled surgeon in the emergency department, Chris was equally skilled in the kitchen, where he was known for his rabbit stew, sticky chicken, and Asian spaghetti. On brisk Saturday mornings in the fall, you’d likely find him in a duck blind in the Gueydan rice fields, ready to stock his deep freezer with winnings from his latest hunt. More than anything, Chris was a dedicated and devoted husband and father of seven children. His wife, Emily Elizabeth Venable Sanders, and their children, Isabelle, Josette, Cole, Molly, Audrey, Franklin, and William, were his proudest achievements, and their love and support sustained him throughout his lengthy illness.
Chris is survived by his wife of fifteen years, Emily, and his children, Isabelle, Josette, Cole, Molly, Audrey, and Franklin Sanders, and stepson, William Rainey, all of Eunice, LA; his brother, Dr. Brett Sanders of Chattanooga, TN, sister, Kelly Cannon ‘89 of Memphis, TN, mother, Barbara Diane Griffith Sanders, of Nashville, TN; and his in-laws, Donna and Kenneth Venable of Crowley, LA. Chris was preceded in death by his late wife, Robin Blevins Sanders, loving mother to Isabelle, Josette, and Cole, and his father, Dr. Harvey Stanford Sanders.
Stephen Alec Montgomery ’94
Stephen Alec Montgomery, 51, hailing from Rosemark, TN, and later Austin, TX, passed away on May 16, 2024. He was fatally mauled by an escaped zoo lion. Not really, but he would appreciate your help perpetuating the rumor.
Steve was born on August 4, 1972, to William and Patsy Montgomery, from whom he acquired his impeccable sense of humor and his love for family and friends. He graduated salutatorian of Bolton High School (1990) and earned a physics degree at Rhodes College (1994) in Memphis, TN. You might have recognized him from his stint at Chuck E. Cheese in the early 1990’s, where he was often tapped to play the coveted role of the head mouse himself. He eventually outgrew that costume and entered a career in Information Technology with several companies, including Stephenson & Associates in Memphis, TN, and UTIMCO in Austin, TX. That career later took him to the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station for a season as support personnel.
Steve felt the draw (or heard the drawl?) of Texas and moved to Austin for a change of scenery in 2000 where he stayed for over a decade. He plied his charm and exceedingly good humor against a horde of Texans who became some of his dearest companions. Steve would later return from Texas to be a primary caretaker for his mother prior to her passing in 2022.
Steve was first and foremost an exceptional son, brother, and friend. He was a constant voice of reason and a trusted confidant. Steve rarely if ever declined an invitation to an adventure (refer to South Pole above), a new activity (sky diving or biking across New Zealand on his way home from the South Pole) or to share the drudgery of manual labor. He shared his time and gave assistance freely to anyone who asked. He listened with interest and concern to anyone needing an ear. Steve was charming and polite, but never condescending. Steve was a fount of positivity and entirely unselfish. He was thankful, honest, intelligent, hilarious, compassionate, caring, empathetic, generous, and above all else he was eternally kind. Steve was equally comfortable in a large group as a small gathering. He was a coveted addition to any congregation of friends, and he had an uncanny ability to make every friend feel like his best friend.
He was rarely seen without a smile, a ball, or a trinket. If you knew Steve, you very likely had several inside jokes shared only between him and yourself. He was one of a kind. He is altogether unforgettable.
Steve was a steadfast fan of the Cincinnati Bengals, Memphis Grizzlies, and Houston Rockets. He grew up playing golf and basketball—believing he could have played in the NBA if he had better knees and a mere 10 more inches of height. He spent many hours riding his bicycle—his preferred mode of transportation. Steve was an avid reader and a connoisseur of good music, good (if not niche) movies, and fine spirits and ale. He enjoyed a good game of chess. He had a weakness for fried pies and peach cobbler. He shunned confrontation but reveled in good conversation and debate. Both his greatest passion and greatest gift were making people laugh. Steve’s dry wit was lightning fast and second to none. To the benefit of us all, Steve preferred to make his life richer with relationships and experiences rather than material things, and by that measure he was truly wealthy.
Steve faced a relentless illness with dignity and an unshakable faith. Despite his distress through chemotherapy, disappointing prognoses, and confronting his impending mortality, he found solace in scripture and the promise of a resurrected life free of illness. The devastating disease which took him from us was unable to steal his sense of humor and the humanity that defined him throughout life. Though he was suffering, he grieved instead for those who would be left without him. He continued to express his selflessness and appreciation to those who cared for him and visited him – apologizing for his inability to share more time and energy. Steve showed us the power of trust in the Promise of our Lord despite the cruel fate that visited him the final year of his life.
Steve was predeceased by his father, William, and mother, Patsy. He is survived by his brother, Patrick, and sister-in-love, Lucie Brackin, and his boon companions King a.k.a “Crunchy” and Bane a.k.a. “Big Swerve,” who were intermittently interested in his presence and tolerated his company only when to their benefit. Devastated by his loss are his family and the countless friends whose lives will be slightly less bright with the absence of a soul as endearing as Steve.
Jeremy Kellar ’97
Jeremy Ralph Kellar, of Conway, AR, passed away Monday, March 18, 2024. He was born August 2, 1975, in Morrilton, AR, to Larry and Diane Kellar. He was a member of Portland Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as Vacation Bible School superintendent, substitute Sunday school teacher, and led Sunday night song service. He graduated from Clinton High School in 1993 and attended Rhodes College in Memphis, TN, graduating in 1997. He was employed at Acxiom for 25 years. Jeremy was preceded in death by his grandparents, Doyle and Jackie Koonce, and Ralph and Willie Florine Kellar. Jeremy is survived by his parents, Larry and Diane Kellar of Plumerville, brothers John (Kasey) Kellar of Morrilton and Tyler (Kristin) Kellar of Wooster, nephews Ben, Sam, and Owen Kellar of Morrilton, Jax Kellar of Wooster, and one niece, Olivia Kellar of Wooster.
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; 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.
Russell Jankowski ’27
Russell Hudson Jankowski, 19, of Nashville, TN, died on March 19, 2024, in a car accident. Son of Lea and Patrick Jankowski, Russell was born September 28, 2004, in Huntsville, AL. Russell was a gifted athlete who played baseball, hockey, and football. He graduated Ensworth High School Class of 2023, was the recipient of the Robert Inman Award for participating in eleven athletic seasons, and was elected by his peers to serve as the Captain of the House of Vitality. Russell was a freshman at Rhodes College in Memphis, where he was studying pre-law and was a member of the Rhodes football team. In addition to his accomplishments on the field, Russell was a brilliant and kind individual who brought joy to his family and friends and whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of many. Russell is preceded in death by grandfathers Ronald Hudson and Daniel Jankowski. He is survived by his loving parents Lea and Patrick Jankowski, brother William Corbin Millican, grandmothers Patricia Hudson and Nancy Jankowski, aunts and uncles Eddie Jankowski, David Jankowski, Shannon and Daniel Parker, Kevin and Heather Jankowski, Andrew Jankowski, Lynn and Fulton Combs, Ann Marie and Gregory Brink, and beloved dogs Buster and Willy.
Friends/Staff
Margaret E. Cardwell (friend)
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 had known 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, MN, for recreation and respite. The family moved to San Clemente, CA in 1966. Harold's newspaper was the host newspaper for the “Western White House” 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, two 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, TX. 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 seeking employment in September 1980, based on her education background. She was rebuffed in over 120 interviews, because she, a woman, couldn’t possibly take 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, eventually serving under four 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 competitive runner for many years until switching to her twice-daily 3-mile walks. She doted on her three grandchildren Porter, Sydney, 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 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 and 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 more than 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.
Dr. Kathy Deen Evans, P'08
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.
Prof. Frederic “Fritz” R. Stauffer, P'71, P'74, P'77
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 was 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.