Cole & Garrett Funeral Home & Cremation Services Obituaries

Understanding the Importance of Funeral Services

Cole & Garrett Funeral Home & Cremation Services, located at 127 North Main Street, Goodlettsville, TN, 37072, understands the significance of providing compassionate and personalized funeral services to families during their most difficult times. Losing a loved one is never easy, and it's essential to have a trusted partner to guide you through the funeral planning process.

A Brief History of Cole & Garrett Funeral Home

Cole & Garrett Funeral Home has been serving the Goodlettsville community for many years, building a reputation for excellence and dedication to families. Their commitment to providing exceptional service has earned them a respected position in the community, and they continue to strive for excellence in everything they do.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Mary Jo Bowers Dorris - January 25, 1939 - July 01, 2023

Departed: 07/01/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Mary Jo Bowers Dorris, age 84, of Goodlettsville, passed away on July 1, 2023. She was born on January 25, 1939, to the late Joseph R. and Mary L. Martin Bowers. Along with her parents, she is preceded by her husband, J. Martin Dorris; and sister, Frances Galbreath.

Mary Jo is survived by her daughters, Marti (Phil) Hartman and Amanda Neely; three grandchildren, Ainsley Hartman, Avery (JJ) Toy, and Trey (Jessica) Neely; and great-grandson, Axel Neely.

Family will hold a private service.

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Nick Thompson - December 11, 1962 - June 30, 2023

Departed: 06/30/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Nick Thompson, age 60, of Goodlettsville, passed away on June 30, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on December 11, 1962 to Mrs. Mary Thompson and the late Charles Ross Thompson, Sr. Along with his father, he is preceded in death by his brother, Charles Ross Thompson, Jr.

Nick was an avid UT Football fan. He also enjoyed spending time outside fishing.

Nick is survived by his mother, Mary Thompson; sisters, Stephanie (Ron) Mathis and Barbara (Steve) Lee; niece, Amanda (Ross) Cortese; nephew, Joseph Lee; great nephews, Nolan and Sutton Cortese; cousins, Glenn (Dodie) Bloodworth and Kathy Bloodworth.

A celebration of life will be held at 3pm, Monday, July 3rd at Beech Cumberland Presbyterian Church with Pastor Jeff DeWees officiating. Family will receive friends from 2-3pm prior to the service.

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Shirley Faye Martin - February 04, 1945 - June 27, 2023

Departed: 06/27/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Ms. Shirley Faye Ralph Martin, age 78, of Goodlettsville, passed away on June 27, 2023 surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Sumner County, Tennessee on February 4, 1945 to the late Roy and Mary Ralph. Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Stephen Leon Martin; son, Stephen Ralph Martin; two sisters, Myrtle L Heyn and Rebecca Liuzzi; and one brother, Roy E. Ralph.

Shirley enjoyed spending her time quilting and supporting her grandchildren going to baseball and softball games. Shirley was a graduate of Hendersonville High School, but spent one semester at Goodlettsville High School, where she met her husband, Stephen Leon Martin, and they were together for 48 years before his passing in 2012. All through high school, Shirley was an avid basketball player.

Shirley is survived by her daughter, Penny (Buck) Tarpey; grandchildren, Jessica (Joe) Seiler, Justin Tarpey, and Jarrett Tarpey; great grandchildren, Brayden, Brixton, and Beckham; brother, Billy T. (Kay) Ralph; sister-in-law, Nell (Rob) Baird; brother in laws, Ronnie Heyn and Frank Liuzzi. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, along with many friends at Walkers United Methodist Church.

A celebration of life will be held at 11am, Friday, June 30th in the chapel of Cole and Garrett Funeral Home in Goodlettsville. The family will receive friends from 4-8pm on Thursday evening and again one hour prior to the service on Friday. Burial will take place at Beech Cumberland Presbyterian Church Cemetery.

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Wilma Jean Stidham - November 20, 1928 - June 26, 2023

Departed: 06/26/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Wilma “Jean” (Grigsby) Stidham (Mom) passed peacefully in her Goodlettsville home on 26 Jun 2023.  Jean was born in Hardburly Kentucky on 30 Nov 1928, from Margie Elizabeth (Edwards) Grigsby and Lewis Hayes Grigsby.  She was preceded by her husband of 74 years, John H Stidham Sr (2017) and her son John H Stidham Jr (2023).  She is survived by her daughter Margie E Deloach (Allen), son Phillip H Stidham (Cindy) and her 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Jean Stidham spent her early years in the beautiful eastern Kentucky mountains.  She too was a real coal miner’s daughter and lived in several of the largest coal-camps of that time.  Her early years were hard-scrabble but she always spoke lovingly of her time growing up there.  Born just a year before the start of the Great Depression, that experience instilled in her a greater appreciation for anything she earned later in life and her vivid childhood recollections were often the subject of many late-night conversations.  She possessed a rare gift for storytelling and even given her advanced 94 years of life, never lost her remarkable ability to remember names and recall events in great detail.

In her senior year of high school, a young Wilma Jean met the love of her life John, in Hazard Kentucky.  After graduation, they married and set out on their life-long adventure together.  After his brief stint in the coal mines, she convinced her husband that there might be a better (safer) occupation out there and before long, they found themselves managing a commercial turkey farm in Osgood Indiana.  After a few years, John accepted a job working for the USDA as a Federal meat inspector.  Then, in 1966, a job opportunity in Nashville presented itself and they moved their young family from Indiana to their permanent home in Goodlettsville Tennessee. Jean was a long-time member of the First Baptist Church in Goodlettsville (1966) and loved attending her Sunday school class.  She cherished the time spent visiting with all of her best friends every Sunday...    Let it be known that Wilma Jean was born again, baptized and Loved Her Savior Jesus Christ above all!

Jean was a renowned “country cook” (her words) and could prepare a full meal in record time.  Passing up a chance to eat at Jean Stidham’s was indeed a big mistake as no one ever left mom’s table hungry!  She loved to share her talents and treasured family recipes with her friends and many of them became excellent cooks as well.  She was also known for her exceptional seamstress skills and taught her daughter and many others to sew.  Our mother missed her calling as a teacher.

Mom was a good mother and always put her family’s needs before her own. She was always there to sew a merit badge onto one of her two Eagle Scout’s sashes (she was very proud of that) or celebrate a birthday or special occasion at school with enough cupcakes to feed all the kids and teaching staff as well.

Mom was a great listener and, after careful consideration, would often give a well thought out bit of advice just when a person needed it most.  She had a very positive affect on people.  It’s not unusual for me to run into people who’ll say, “You know, your momma once told me…” and can always recount her sage advice.  She really made a difference in people’s lives. Mom wasn’t well traveled but was very well read and possessed a remarkable vocabulary.  In addition to cooking and reading, her favorite pastime was accomplishing any type of puzzle. Ranging from very challenging crosswords, cryptograms and intricate picture puzzles.  She always credited this with keeping her mind razor sharp!

Wilma Jean was a wonderful mother and always provided unending love and support to her children.  She loved to brag about her grandchildren and great grandchildren’s achievements and adored her visits with them.

Jean lived a long and rewarding life and left an indelible mark on the hearts of those she met.  She always strived to live by the Golden Rule and her presence will be missed by many.

Wilma Jean Grigsby Stidham, Go now and Rest in your Savior’s loving arms. Jean and John will be interred at Forrest Lawn Cemetery in Goodlettsville Tennessee

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Chandra Sue Dickie - October 20, 1960 - June 24, 2023

Departed: 06/24/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Chandra Sue Dickie, born on October 20, 1960, in Springfield, TN, passed away on June 24, 2023, in Nashville, TN. She was a loving daughter, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Chandra was surrounded by her beautiful family members who are mourning her loss. Chandra had an associate’s degree from Vol State in Business and Communication and later followed her love for music by taking classes at Belmont University. She had several accomplishments through the years, but her greatest joy was working at the Dollar Tree in White House where she had so many regular customers who would come to see her every time they went shopping. Chandra founded Sassy Sisters along with her sister, Tenaya to make custom shirts and tumblers along with running Good Vibrations CD and Record Shop in White House. Chandra's hobbies included watching murder mysteries, coaching her daughters' softball team, spending time writing poems and raising money for St Jude's Children Hospital. She loved adventure and nature with trips to the beach being one of her favorite getaways. Besides her parents Carl (Delores) Cole and Rebecca Williams; Chandra is survived by three children; daughter- Chasarin (Burt) Reynolds, son- Larry Patrick (Melinda) Thomason and son- Willie (Ashley) Travis; grandchildren- Zachary (Abigail) Reynolds, Jarick Reynolds, Allena Reynolds, Blake Thomason, Kyndal (Marshal) Alford, Olivia Traughber, JC Traughber, Kimberly Traughber, Noble Travis and Winnie Travis along with great-grandchildren- William Brown, Drew Smith, Waylon Smith, Brenley Alford, Grayson Cobb, Paxton Traughber; and her siblings - Yolanda (Wayne) Bush, Wanda (Roger) McClendon along with Tenaya Williams. She is preceded in death by her brother, Todd Cole along with her step-dad James Williams. Chandra lived life to the fullest and cherished the time spent with her family, particularly her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her memory will be treasured forever and she will be remembered for the joy she brought into everyone’s life. A celebration of Chandra's life will be held on June 28th at Goodlettsville Pentecostal Church, 733 Old Dickerson Pike, GOODLETTSVILLE, TN at 1:00 pm with Rev. Dan Russell officiating. The family will receive friends on June 28th from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the same location. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery in White House with Cody Cole, Kory Bush, Blake Thomason, Jarick Reynolds, Daniel Miller and Rusty McClendon serving as pallbearers.

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Wiley L. Hayes, Jr. - November 26, 1951 - June 24, 2023

Departed: 06/24/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Wiley L. Hayes Jr., also known as Bill, Billy, and Pa to his loved ones, passed away peacefully on June 24th, 2023, at his home. He was born on November 26th, 1951, in Nashville, Tennessee to Wiley L. Hayes Sr. and Carlene Hayes. Following his graduation from high school, Bill proudly served in the United States Army, where he did two tours in the Vietnam War. Upon returning home, he began a career at the United States Army Corp. of Engineers where he worked for over thirty years as a Lock Operator on Old Hickory Lake. Bill had an adventurous spirit and enjoyed traveling with his wife Maggie. They would often go for long drives or motorcycle rides with no destination in mind, stopping only when they found a place that caught their eye. Bill was also an avid wildlife feeder who enjoyed observing birds, squirrels, turkeys, eagles, beavers, and skunks that visited his yard - even attracting the occasional peacock! In his free time, Bill enjoyed playing racquetball with friends, riding motorcycles with Maggie, and playing with his dogs. He was a humble man who loved helping others but never sought out praise for his good deeds. Bill is survived by his beloved wife Maggie Hayes; daughters, Dr. Danica Stephens and Heather Henderson; grandchildren Jake Stephens, Erin Stephens, Tori Stephens, Maya Stephens, Daphne Varela, Rachel Stephens, Taylor Proffitt, and Cory Henderson; one great-grandchild, Benjamin Stephens; sister Debbie Beasley; nieces Tonia Raines, Tracy Patterson and Gina Campbell; as well as a host of cousins. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Bill's wishes were to be cremated and a life celebration will be held at a later date. Wiley L. Hayes Jr. left a lasting impact on those who knew him and the world around him. He will always be remembered for his kind spirit and gentle nature. Rest in peace, dear Billy.

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Terry Ladore - September 18, 1976 - June 23, 2023

Departed: 06/23/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Terry Ladore, age 46, of Goodlettsville, passed away on June 23, 2023. He was born in Micronesia on September 18, 1976 to the late Andon and Maria Ladore.

Terry enjoyed playing volleyball and playing pool.

He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Mrs. Carmina Silbanuz; daughter, Faith Ladore; and many brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at 12pm, Saturday, July 8th in the chapel of Cole and Garrett Funeral Home in Goodlettsville with burial to follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens. Family will receive friends on Friday evening, July 7th from 4-8pm and again from 10-12pm prior to the service on Saturday.

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Margie A. Heaney - September 05, 1942 - June 15, 2023

Departed: 06/15/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Ms. Margie A. Heaney, age 80, of Madison, passed away on June 15, 2023 surrounded by her loving family. She was born on September 5, 1942 to the late Clifford P. and Goldie Marie Adcock. Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by husband, John T. Heaney.

Margie was an avid sports fan, and a proud founding season ticket holder for the Tennessee Titans. She loved her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren; who called her “Grammy.” She worked at the Tennessee State Legislature for over 30 years before retiring in 2022.

Margie is survived by her daughters, Cindy (Grant) Croley and Penny (Bruce) Aderholt; grandchildren, Jason (Ashley) Aderholt, Marie (Gabriel) Dryden, and Shannon (Jared) Covington; and seven great grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at 2pm, Saturday, June 24th in the chapel of Cole and Garrett in Goodlettsville. Family will receive friends from 12-2pm prior to the service.

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Treva Joan Carr - November 17, 1938 - June 13, 2023

Departed: 06/13/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Treva Joan (McCoin) Carr, of Goodlettsville, passed away on June 13, 2023. She was born in Goodlettsville, TN on November 17, 1938 to the late James Ellis McCoin and Willie Mae Draper McCoin. Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Mr. Clyde H. Carr; and daughter, Michelle Leigh (Carr) Phillips; and sisters, Nancy McCoin Saferight, Judi McCoin Smith, and Beverly McCoin.

She loved Jesus, family, music, dancing, laughter, her neighbors, sports, Family Feud, Hallmark movies and Wheel of Fortune. She loved to make people laugh and to be the life of the party.

Joan is survived by her daughters, Pam Carr Jones (Terry) and Ginger Carr Bobel (Dennis); six grandchildren (and spouses); nine great- grandchildren; sister, Jannette (Terry) Laney; brother-in-law, Buist Carr; sister-in-law, Cheryl (Chuck) Schippers; and many other family and friends.

A special thank you to her caregiver, Sandra Harshaw, also to White House Healthcare, Home Health, and Hospice staff that cared for her.

A celebration of life will be held at 12pm, Saturday, June 17th in the chapel of Cole and Garrett in Goodlettsville with burial at Forest Lawn Cemetery. Family will receive friends from 4-8pm on Friday and again from 11am-12pm on Saturday prior to the service.

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Frank "Billy" Pegram - May 22, 1961 - June 12, 2023

Departed: 06/12/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Frank “Billy” Pegram passed away on June 12th, 2023 at Cookeville Regional Medical Center, surrounded by his family. He was born May 22nd, 1961 in Nashville, Tennessee, eldest son of Raymond and Mary Pegram.  A graduate of Hendersonville High School class of 1979, Billy was never a fan of school. Billy went straight to work after graduation, and for nearly 30 years, he owned and operated Custom Excavation, a contracting business that brought countless residential delights throughout Middle Tennessee.      Billy lived his life for his family, and loved spending time with his loved ones on Dale Hollow Lake. He could be described by many as “honest”, “strong-willed”, and “hardworking”, all of which made him unforgettable to anyone he met. He is proceeded in death by his parents Ray and Mary Pegram, and his aunt, Georgia Ann Warren. He is survived by his wife, Kris, and children, Amy (Easton), Shelby (John Mark) & William, and grandson Wyatt. Billy was loved by so many and missed by all.      A visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 14th from 4-8pm at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home in Goodlettsville, TN. An additional visitation will take place on Thursday, June 15th from 12-2pm. Following visitation, his funeral will begin promptly at 2pm. A graveside service will follow at Beech Cemetery in Hendersonville, TN.

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Mary Elizabeth Baldwin - October 23, 1946 - June 01, 2023

Departed: 06/01/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Ms. Mary Elizabeth Baldwin, age 76, of Goodlettsville, passed away on June 1, 2023. She was born in Columbus, OH to the late Arthur and Loxley Forster on October 23, 1946. Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her daughter, Sheri Carpenter.

Mary is survived by her son, Andy (Melanie) Baldwin; daughter, Cyndi Mullen (Mike Charette); brother, Terry Forster; ten grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren.

The family will hold a memorial service at a later date.

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Gary Ray Carnahan - December 05, 1950 - May 30, 2023

Departed: 05/30/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Gary Carnahan, age 72, of Goodlettsville, passed away on May 30, 2023. He was born in Nashville, TN on December 5, 1950 to the late Fred and Anne Carnahan. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by two brothers, Buddy Carnahan and Skip Carnahan.

He is survived by his children, Clay Carnahan and Wendy Carnahan Free (Derrick); two grandchildren, Anne Wesley Free and Gracie Free.

A visitation will be held from 2-5pm, Sunday, June 4th at Cole and Garrett Funeral Home in Goodlettsville. The family will hold a memorial service at a later date.

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David Boyd Williams - September 14, 1977 - May 21, 2023

Departed: 05/21/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Mr. David Boyd Williams, age 45, of Winchester, TN, passed from this life on Sunday, May 21, 2023, in Winchester. David was born in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, to his late father Jimmy Harvey Williams and surviving mother Mary Ellen Baggett Butler.

David was a member of the Sewanee Business Alliance where he served on the executive committee and was a co-chair of the economic development committee. He was also a member of the Monteagle-Sewanee Rotary Club. David was an amazing human being who loved deep, without bias, and proved his love through his actions. He was a magnet, pulling people to him through the light he exuded. He celebrated life through experiences and adventure, connecting with people and cultures all along the way. He was an entrepreneur who had dreams of bringing people together through Lumiére Sewanee. He enjoyed being outdoors, loving on his animals, traveling, eating quality food, spending time with family and friends, music, and so much more. He was one of those people that left a lasting impression on all who met him.

David is survived by his mother, Mary Ellen (Gene) Butler; brother, John (Denise) Williams; step brother, Brian (Linda) Butler; niece, Miquela (Justin) Cobb; nephew, Brayden (Gabriella) Williams; uncle, Howard (Gail) Baggett; aunt, Sue Sargent; and a host of friends.

Visitation with the family will be held Thursday, May 25, 2023, from 4:00pm until 8:00pm at Central Funeral Home in Manchester, TN. Another visitation will be held Friday, May 26, 2023, from 11:00am until 2:00pm at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home in Goodlettsville, TN. Funeral services will be conducted immediately following visitation at 2pm at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home with Steve Stasson officiating. Burial will follow at Felts Cemetery in Ashland City, TN.

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Linda Sisco McConnell - December 26, 1950 - May 17, 2023

Departed: 05/17/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Linda Sisco McConnell, age 72, of Hendersonville, passed away May 17, 2023 surrounded by her loving family. She was born on December 26, 1950 in Madison, TN to the late Grady and Martha Sisco. Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Mr. Anthony “Tony” McConnell; brothers, Robert Sisco, Lewis Sisco, and Terry Sisco.

Linda is survived by her children; James Alan (Amy) McConnell, Barry Kay (Tiffany) McConnell, Stacy Lynn (Jacob) Gardner; grandchildren; Alana (Jake) McGuire, Alyssa Heuck, Austin McConnell, Micheala (John) Pentecost, Jada Noelle Gardner, Hope Gambrell, and Faith Gambrell; great grandchildren; Aaliyah River McConnell, Gunner Bleu Heuck, and Violet Ryan McGuire; brothers; Clay Sisco, Billy Sisco, Kenny Sisco; and sister, Nancy Alvis.

Linda is a graduate of White House High School Class of 1968. She worked and then retired from the Sumner County Board of Education, employed at Beech Elementary for over 30 years. She was a caring, wonderful mother and grandmother, incredible seamstress, who enjoyed cooking, baking, and spending time with her friends and family.

A life celebration will be held at 10am, Saturday, May 20th in the chapel of Cole and Garrett Funeral Home with burial at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens. Family will receive friends from 4-8pm on Friday evening and again from 9-10am prior to the service on Saturday.

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Debra Jean Bois - March 23, 1955 - May 16, 2023

Departed: 05/16/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Debra Jean Bois, age 68, of Gallatin, passed away on May 16, 2023 surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Kansas City, Kansas on March 23, 1955 to the late Gene and Wilma Whisler. Along with her parents she is preceded in death by one brother.

Deb enjoyed sewing, shopping, and traveling. She loved her family but her favorite title was being “Nana.” She was a loving wife, mother, sister, Nana, and friend who will be truly missed.

Deb is survived by her husband of 35 years, Mr. Ronald Bois; children, David (Erica) Deckelman, Donnie (Dorian) Deckelman, Matt Deckelman, Megan (Coleman) Hook, Bobby (Ashley) Bois, and Jim(Lindsay) Bois; twelve grandchildren; and three great grandchildren; two sisters; and two brothers.

A life celebration will be held at 11am, Friday, May 19th in the chapel of Cole and Garrett Funeral Home in Goodlettsville with burial at Crestview Memory Gardens. Family will receive friends from 9-11am prior to the service on Friday.

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Rebecca Ann Downs - June 09, 1930 - May 14, 2023

Departed: 05/14/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Rebecca Ann Downs, passed away on May 14th, 2023. Rebecca was born in Greenbrier on June 9th, 1930, to Floyd and Annie Ellison. She grew up in the close-knit community of Greenbrier and attended Greenbrier High School where she graduated. Rebecca was a loving and devoted wife to her husband Earl Miller Downs Jr. In addition to being a dedicated homemaker for her family, she also worked as a receptionist for many years before retiring to spend more time with her loved ones. Her family meant everything to her, and she cherished the time spent watching them grow and make families of their own. Rebecca was a member of the Echo Hills Church of Christ and derived great joy from reading and diamond art projects. She also enjoyed playing Bingo at the Holiday House, shopping, and spending quality time with her family. Rebecca will be deeply missed by all who knew her; she leaves behind a legacy of kindness, love, and devotion. She is survived by her children Gary (Shelia) Dickerson, Vickie (Tommy) Hicks, Earl Miller “Trey” (Melissa) Downs III, Laurie Ferrell; grandchildren Kimberly (Wesley) Stafford, Gary “Turtle” (Angela) Dickerson, Jr., Tommy "Bud" (Kim) Hicks, II, Rachel (Junior) Worley, Drake (Rebekah) Downs and Drew Ferrell; brother Sherman (Brenda) Ellison; eight great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren. Rebecca now joins her husband Earl Miller Downs Jr. in eternal rest as well as her parents Floyd Henry Ellison and Annie C. Ellison. Her memory will be cherished by all those who knew her for years to come. May your soul rest in peace Rebecca Ann Downs - you will always be remembered for your smile that could light up a room and your love that knew no bounds.

A Life Celebration will be held on Thursday, May 18th at 12 noon in the chapel of Cole and Garrett Funeral Home in Goodlettsville with Brother Jon Briggs officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens with her grandsons and nephews serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 17th from 4-8 pm then again on Thursday from 10 am until the time of service. These arrangements were entrusted to Cole & Garrett Funeral Home: 127 N. Main Street Goodlettsville, TN 37072: 615-859-5231: www.ColeandGarrett.com

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Adrina Perkins Drake - October 08, 1941 - May 11, 2023

Departed: 05/11/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Ms. Adrina Perkins Drake, age 81, of Cedar Hill, passed away on May 11, 2023 surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Nashville, TN on October 8, 1941 to the late Horace and Charlie Wallace Perkins. Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Mr. Jerry Alley Drake; and son, Jerry Russell Drake.

Adrina enjoyed doing agility dog training. She was also an avid basketball fan, especially watching the Golden State Warriors and the LA Lakers.

Adrina is survived by her daughter, Jana Drake (Del) Hayes; grandchildren, Mackenzi Drake, Chandler Drake, and Krista Hamby; great grandchild, Abby Dorsey; sister in law, Linda Keeton; and nephew, Jerry Keeton.

A graveside service will be held at 2pm, Monday, May 15th at Springfield Memorial Gardens. Family will receive friends from 11-1:30pm at Cole and Garrett Funeral Home in Goodlettsville.

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Beverly Lane - May 11, 1963 - May 03, 2023

Departed: 05/03/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Ms. Beverly Lane, age 59, of Goodlettsville, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2023 in Nashville, TN. She was born on May 11, 1963 in Nashville to the late Jerry and Glenda Spurlock.

To know Beverly, was to love her. She was known for her giving spirit. She loved her family and friends and always put their needs before her own. She was a 1981 graduate of Goodlettsville High School and a long time member of Goodlettsville Church of Christ. During her professional career, she worked in the insurance business, was a stay at home mom/home school mom, and later retired working in the family business as the office manager. Her favorite title was “Mom”. Her hobbies included reading and watching football.

Beverly is survived by her daughters, Samantha (Caleb) Ford and Meagan Lane; sister, Karen (David) Wrye; nephews, Devin (Natalie) Wrye and Drennan Wrye; great niece, Hadley Wrye; and a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Visitation will be held on Monday, May 8th from 4-8pm, at Cole and Garrett Funeral Home in Goodlettsville. The family will hold a private graveside service.

Serving as pall bearers will be Caleb Ford, Devin Wrye, Drennan Wrye, David Wrye, Blake Edwards, and Braden Edwards.

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Sherry Clark - December 31, 1969 - May 03, 2023

Departed: 05/03/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Ms. Sherry Clark, age 76, passed away in, Newnan, GA on May 3, 2023. She was born in Athens, TN on July 20, 1946 to the late Dorothy W. McMurtry and Walter McMurtry, USAF. Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by one brother, Jerry R. McMurtry.

Sherry is survived by her daughter, Kirstie Lisa Messimer; granddaughters, Ashley Messimer, Sierra Barela (Messimer), great grandchildren, Danny Barela and Luna Barela; brothers, Walter P. McMurtry and Ronald W. McMurtry.

A life celebration will be held at 1pm, Saturday, May 20th in the chapel of Cole and Garrett in White House. Family will receive friends from 11-1pm prior to the service.

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Wanda Grissom - May 27, 1943 - April 24, 2023

Departed: 04/24/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Wanda Thomas Grissom, age 79, passed away in Goodlettsville, TN, on April 24th, 2023. Born near Ripley, TN, May 27th, 1943, she was the daughter of the late Charlie D. and Rada Thomas. Wanda was also preceded in death by brother Dean (Ann) Thomas.

Wife. Mother. Grandmother (Gigi), Professor, Aunt. Niece, Friend. Neighbor. Loving. Brilliant. Selfless. Organized. Curious. Generous. Creative. Disciplined. Funny and Fun loving. These are only a few of the many important roles and genuine characteristics of Wanda Grissom. Her humble beginnings and formative years were spent in Bath Springs, Tennessee, where she was the daughter to single mother, Rada, after the passing of her father, Charlie, when Wanda was only 2-year- old.   She loved school and learning, and like many other children in the area, worked the gardens and cotton fields in the summers and fall. A graduate of Decaturville High School,  Wanda was promoted ahead and skipped a grade to graduate in 1960 at the age of 16. Immediately following, she moved to Nashville to work at Methodist Publishing House. Later in 1960, she met the love of her life, Jim, and they married October 21, 1962.  Children soon followed with the birth of Kim in 1963 and James in 1965.

When her children were ages 8- and 6-years-old, Wanda, age 28,  decided to enroll in Belmont University to become a teacher. She was the first in her family to attend college and achieved a Bachelor of Science degree in 1975, earning the status Magna Cum Laude. Upon graduation, Wanda became as associate professor at Nashville State Community College where she taught Office Administration for 30 years. Wanda loved her role as a professor and many students benefited greatly from her passion for helping others successfully achieve their personal goals. Teaching was not her job, it was her hobby. Other hobbies for Wanda included raising a family, reading, photography,  crafting, traveling, sewing, and cooking.

Her life with husband and soul mate, Jim, her kids and ultimately her grandchildren, Lindsay, Taylor, Bailey and Matthew, were the center of her world. She loved supporting all their dreams with unconditional love. However, the greatest story of all is the love story of Wanda and Jim. They built a beautiful and successful life together over 62 years from the beginning of their lives until Wanda’s passing.   Jim cared for her every need as her illness progressed.  Theirs is a love story for the ages.

Wanda Grissom is survived by husband, Jim Grissom, daughter, Kim (Tony) Miller, and son, James Grissom,  grandchildren, Lindsay Miller, Matthew Miller, Taylor Grissom and Bailey Grissom.

A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, May 1st, 2023, 1pm at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home Chapel located in Goodlettsville, Tn. A visitation will be held prior to the Celebration of Life from 11am to 1pm also at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will be at Forest Lawn Cemetery immediately following. Service will be officiated by Allen Johnson.

Serving as pall bearers are Bailey Grissom, Matt Miller, Tony Miller, Eli McCormick, Brad Sensing, Terry Mapes, Trevor Coulter, and Robbie Norman.

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John Homer Stidham, Jr - August 03, 1953 - April 23, 2023

Departed: 04/23/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: John Homer Stidham Jr, age 69, passed peacefully on 23 Apr 2023 in Nashville Tennessee.  Born of John Homer Stidham Sr and Wilma Jean Stidham (Grigsby) in Batesville Indiana on 3 Aug 1953.  He is survived by his two children, Shelley Marie Stidham (Tony) and John H Stidham III (Monica) his two grandchildren Tatiana and Mateo as well as his mother Jean Stidham, sister Margie DeLoach (Allen) and brother Phillip H Stidham (Cindy) and other beloved family members. The Stidham family moved from Indiana to Tennessee in 1966.  He attended the old Beech Elementary and then Hendersonville High School where he met and held dear many of his childhood friends.  A well-rounded young man, he loved playing his trumpet in the high school band and singing choir solos at the First Baptist Church of Goodlettsville where he was baptized.  He loved scouting and attained the rank of Eagle Scout (Troop 182).  John loved and played many sports but excelled as a baseball catcher.  And of course, he loved his Kentucky Wildcats, Cincinnati Reds and SF 49ers!

John was selected #3 in the 1973 Vietnam draft and quickly decided that the US Navy was the right fit for his future military service.  For the next 4 years, he proudly served in the Pacific fleet aboard the USS Enterprise “Big E” attaining the rank of EM2 until his honorable discharge in 1976.  While stationed in California, John met and married his wife Angie and after his tour of service ended, they returned briefly to Tennessee and started their young family.  After a few years, he moved his family back to northern California where he eventually pursued what would be his life long career in real estate.  John loved his career as a realtor.

For several years, he organized and chaired his East Bay Realtors group’s meetings.  His altruistic nature led him to take an active role in his local “Make a Wish” program where they raised money to provide specialized lifting wheel chairs for people who couldn’t otherwise stand on their own.  This was one of his proudest achievements.

After his marriage ended, John returned to Tennessee to be closer to his aging parents and again resumed his real estate career in Hendersonville.  John was indeed a special guy, who’s charisma and infectious humor made him the life of the party.  He genuinely loved people and never met a stranger.

He loved his family and cherished his role as grandpa and was always ready to share the latest video of his grandchildren’s achievements.  John happily shared his final 12 years with his life-partner, Mary (Marsh) Stewart, who just recently preceded him.

John enjoyed a full and fortunate life with few regrets.  He will be greatly missed.

Family will host a facebook live memorial service from John's facebook page and Shelley's Instagram page on Friday, May 26th starting at 1pm.

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Dennis Mark Boyd - June 05, 1954 - April 22, 2023

Departed: 04/22/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Dennis Mark Boyd, of Greenbrier, TN passed away on April 22, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on June 5, 1954 in Nashville, TN to the late Dick and Lena Boyd. Along with her parents, he is preceded in death by, his wife, Teresa Boyd; brothers, Ray “Grasshopper” Boyd, Richard Boyd, and Donald Boyd.

Dennis is survived by his fiancée, Becky Leibfritz; children, Kevin Boyd and Keisha Boyd; grandchildren, Levi Boyd, Solie Boyd, Sebastian Boyd, Italia Lopez-Meacham, Benjamin Shutt II, Isiah Dillard, and Keanna Scott; siblings, Roger Boyd (Kathy), Ronnie Boyd, and Sue Anderson;  a host of nieces and nephews; and his faithful companion, Toby.

Dennis loved spending time outside; camping, boating, and traveling. He had a big love for his 1957 Black and Silver Chevrolet, where he competed in several car shows with it. He was with Waste Management for 42 years when he retired.

A life celebration will be held at 2pm, Wednesday, April 26th in the chapel of Cole and Garrett Funeral Home in Goodlettsville with burial at Forest Lawn Cemetery. Family will receive friends from 2-8pm on Tuesday and again on Wednesday from 12-2pm prior to the service.

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Tonya Church - October 25, 1960 - April 20, 2023

Departed: 04/20/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Ms. Tonya Church, age 62, passed away on April 20, 2023, in Nashville, TN. She was born on October 25, 1960, to the late Fred Brown Smith and Judith Ann McCoin Smith. Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her brother, Tony Darryl Smith.

Tonya is survived by her daughters, Tania A. Smith Avrin (Jeffrey) and Emma C. Church; brother, Michael Todd “Bo” Smith; grandson, Thomas Liam Smith and a host of numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and aunts.

Tonya spent many years working at her father's shop, Fred Smith's Transmission as a secretary and bookkeeper.

A life celebration will be held at 3pm, Sunday, April 30th in the chapel of Cole and Garrett Funeral Home Goodlettsville, Tn. Family will receive friends from 1-3pm prior to the service.

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CHRISTIE GUESS - September 14, 1967 - April 14, 2023

Departed: 04/14/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: Christie Guess, age 55, of Kingston Springs passed away Saturday, April 13th, 2023, at home. Born in Atlanta, Ga on September 14th, 1967, to Willie Guess and the late Julia Nell Gibson. Christie was also preceded in death by her grandparents Ralph and Ruby Smith; father, Dan Gibson; sister, Gretta Bowersox; and children’s father, Bruce E. Cain. She is survived by her father, Willie Guess; sons, Bruce Guess/Cain and Brandon Lee Guess/ Cain; sisters, Brook Guess, Betty Rutherford and Valencia Cain Battle; granddaughters, Honesty Marie Cain and Harmony Guess; Grandsons, Treqaun Jones, Bruce Woods, Kane Guess, and Treshawn Jones; Godchildren, Shalitha, Derriona, Teashayla and Tailecia Johnson. A visitation will be held for Christie Guess at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home, Goodlettsville, Tn, Saturday April 22nd ,2023, from 12pm to 4pm. Another visitation will be held Sunday, April 23rd ,2023 at 12 noon with a Celebration of Life service to follow at 1pm both at Cole & Garrett, Goodlettsville, Tn in Chapel. Interment for Christie Guess will be at Spring Hill Cemetery in Nashville, Tn.

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James "Tyree" Ralph Jr. - May 03, 1983 - April 11, 2023

Departed: 04/11/2023 (Goodlettsville)

Obituary Preview: James “Tyree” Ralph Jr passed away on April 11, 2023, at age 39 surrounded by family. He was born May 3, 1983, in Waverly, TN. He is survived by his mother Wei Ralph, sister Hester, brother Allen, and half-sisters Janet Carper and Liz Bondurant. He is also survived by his loving caretaker of over 8 years, Rosie Garrison. He was preceded by his father James T. Ralph Sr, granduncle and lifetime caretaker Wen You Zhou, half-sister Brenda Ralph, and nephew Trevor Douglas. Severely disabled at birth, he brought joy and light to those around him. His sunny disposition despite his inability to walk or talk serves as an inspiration to all. He is no longer suffering, and in death he is able to do all that his disability prevented. He is swimming, speaking, and playing with balloons in Heaven, reunited with his father and granduncle. He will always be remembered for his resilience, innocence, and humor. A graveside memorial will be held at 1pm on Friday, April 21 at Beech Church Cemetery and a life celebration at the family home after.

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Personalized Funeral Services

Cole & Garrett Funeral Home believes that every life is unique, and every funeral service should be tailored to reflect the personality and spirit of the individual who has passed. They offer a range of services, from traditional funerals to cremations, and work closely with families to create a personalized tribute that honors their loved one.

Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home is located in a beautiful facility that provides a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere for families to gather and celebrate the life of their loved one. The facility is equipped with modern amenities, including a spacious chapel, visitation rooms, and a reception area. The staff takes great care to ensure that every detail is attended to, from the arrangement of flowers to the preparation of refreshments.

Pre-Planning Services

Cole & Garrett Funeral Home also offers pre-planning services, allowing individuals to plan their funeral arrangements in advance. This can be a comforting option for those who want to ensure that their wishes are respected and alleviate some of the burden on their loved ones. The funeral home's experienced staff will guide you through the pre-planning process, helping you make informed decisions about your final arrangements.

Cremation Services

In addition to traditional funeral services, Cole & Garrett Funeral Home also offers cremation services. They understand that cremation is becoming an increasingly popular choice for many families, and they provide a range of options to suit individual needs. From direct cremation to memorial services, they will work with you to create a meaningful tribute to your loved one.

Supporting Families Through Grief

Losing a loved one can be overwhelming, and Cole & Garrett Funeral Home recognizes the importance of supporting families through their grief. They offer bereavement resources and counseling services to help families navigate the healing process. Their staff is committed to providing ongoing support, ensuring that families receive the care and compassion they need during this difficult time.

Community Involvement

Cole & Garrett Funeral Home is deeply rooted in the Goodlettsville community and is committed to giving back. They participate in local events and charities, demonstrating their dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those around them. By choosing Cole & Garrett Funeral Home, families can be assured that they are supporting a business that truly cares about the community.

In conclusion, Cole & Garrett Funeral Home & Cremation Services is more than just a funeral home – it's a trusted partner in times of need. With their compassionate staff, beautiful facilities, and commitment to personalized service, they provide families with the care and support they deserve. If you're looking for a funeral home that will treat your family like their own, look no further than Cole & Garrett Funeral Home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It is usually published in a newspaper, online obituary website, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and community members of the passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing important information to those who may want to attend funeral services or send condolences. They can also be a valuable resource for genealogists and historians.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family of the deceased or a close friend writes the obituary. Funeral homes or obituary writers may also assist with writing and publishing the obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include information about funeral services, memorial donations, and other relevant details.

How long does it take to write an obituary?

The time it takes to write an obituary can vary depending on the complexity and length of the notice. On average, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to write a well-crafted obituary.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it is becoming more common for people to write their own obituaries before they pass away. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your life story is told in your own words.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and deadlines. Some newspapers may have online submission forms or email addresses where you can send the obituary.

Can I publish an obituary online?

Yes, there are many online platforms where you can publish an obituary, such as Legacy.com, Tributes.com, or funeral home websites. These platforms often offer features like guest books, photo galleries, and donation links.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the newspaper or online platform. Some newspapers may charge by the word or line, while others may offer package deals or discounts for online publications.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many newspapers and online platforms allow you to include one or multiple photos with the obituary. This can be a meaningful way to personalize the notice and celebrate the person's life.

How do I find an old obituary?

You can search online archives of newspapers or visit local libraries or genealogy centers to access historical records. Many online platforms also offer archives of past obituaries that can be searched by name or date.

Can I edit an obituary after it's been published?

In some cases, it may be possible to make corrections or edits to an obituary after it's been published. However, this may depend on the policies of the newspaper or online platform.

What is a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, typically including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. It is often used when a full obituary is not desired or feasible.

What is a eulogy?

A eulogy is a speech or written tribute that celebrates the life and legacy of the deceased. It is often delivered at a funeral or memorial service by a family member, friend, or colleague.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include humorous anecdotes or quotes in an obituary to reflect the person's personality and spirit.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive issues or controversies surrounding the person's life or death, it's best to consult with family members and decide what information to include or omit from the obituary.

Can I include charitable donations in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers in an obituary. This can be a meaningful way to honor the person's memory and support a worthy cause.

What is an online memorial?

An online memorial is a virtual space where people can share memories, photos, and condolences for the deceased. It can be created on social media platforms, memorial websites, or funeral home websites.

How long will an online obituary remain available?

The duration that an online obituary remains available varies depending on the platform. Some websites may keep archives indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period.

Can I create a video obituary?

Yes, some funeral homes and online platforms offer video tributes or slideshows that can be created using photos and music. These can be shared on social media or played at funeral services.

What is a celebration of life?

A celebration of life is a non-traditional funeral service that focuses on celebrating the person's life rather than mourning their death. It may include music, stories, and other personalized elements.

Can I plan my own funeral service?

Yes, many people choose to pre-plan their own funeral services to ensure that their wishes are respected and to alleviate burden on their loved ones.

How do I cope with grief after losing a loved one?

Coping with grief is a unique and individual experience. It's essential to seek support from family, friends, counseling services, or support groups during this difficult time.

Are there any resources available for writing an obituary?

Yes, there are many resources available online that provide guidance on writing an obituary, including templates, examples, and tips from professional writers and funeral industry experts.

Can I republish an old obituary on social media?

Yes, you can republish an old obituary on social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter as a way to share memories and pay tribute to the deceased on special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries.