Dennis A. “Pap” Cornett
March 23, 2026
On Monday, Feb. 23, 2026, our beloved “Pap” went to heaven.
Dennis A. “Pap” Cornett, 79, of Clinton was born Oct. 8, 1946, in Pine Mountain, Kentucky, to Harrison and Ora Mae Cornett.
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Dennis S. Cornett; his brother, Lester Cornett and wife Peggy; his sister, Ola Mae Hall; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Kermit and Ella Jane Wilder of Kentucky; his sister-in-law and her husband, Phyllis and Coburn Turner; brothers-in-law, Don Wilder and Clyde Wilder; and his son-in-law, John Fugate.
He is survived by his lifelong friend and loving wife of 59 years, Peggy Wilder Cornett. The couple grew up together and attended Sunday School before they were school age. When Peggy was 10 years old, she told Dennis she was going to marry him one day. He asked her to marry him when they were 17, but she said they were too young. They married at age 19.
Survivors also include his children, Deanna Fugate Blackburn and husband Neil, and Wesley Wilder and wife Susan; grandchildren, Leah Green and husband Andrew, Taylor Fugate and wife Hannah, Trevor Blackburn, Corey Blackburn, Luna Wilder, Sophia Middleton, Rhett Middleton, Haylie Earles, Alexis Earles and Zoe Earles; great-grandchildren, Willow, Zane, Wylie, Ryanne, Everleigh, Baby Fugate, Naomi, Jackson and Brysonn.
Other survivors include Dawn Middleton and husband James, Jennifer Cornett, Millie Earles and husband James; sisters-in-law, Pauline Boggs and husband Bobby, and Barbie Halcomb and husband Johnny; and many nieces and nephews.
Dennis was affectionately called “Pap” by most everyone who knew him. His faith was strong and steady. He accepted Christ as his Savior during a Sunday morning fishing trip on Norris Lake. He was a devoted member of First Dutch Valley Baptist Church and loved his church family. He opened his home and heart to many, expecting nothing in return, and had such a positive impact on so many lives.
Dennis began his life of giving at an early age. When he was 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard. He proudly served his country for more than 36 years.
He was a Vietnam veteran. He served one tour of duty aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Ingham. While serving in the Coast Guard Reserves, he earned the rank of Master Chief Machinery Technician, a distinction achieved by only a small percentage of enlisted personnel. He served his country with enduring pride and great humility. He didn’t talk much about his service or the recognition he received.
He traveled the world but remained adamant that the hills of Kentucky and East Tennessee were the most beautiful places on Earth. Being at home and at church were his happiest places.
Pap loved his family deeply. He worked tirelessly to provide for those he loved, spending long days on the farm, at his job at the Y-12 Steam Plant, and fulfilling his duties with the Coast Guard Reserves. He was the family’s go-to person for advice and solutions. He had so much wisdom and was willing to share his knowledge – his way.
He enjoyed having family gatherings and celebrations. He looked forward to camping (glamping), Bluegrass festivals, and beach vacations. He just loved being around the ones he loved. And we loved being around him. Oh, how he will be missed.
When the great-grandbabies started coming, that love turned into something else – something bigger, brighter, and bolder. And it all started with the purchase of a blue Power Wheels Jeep. He said if he knew having grandbabies was so much fun, he would have had them first.
Pap loved gardening, and grew one of the largest gardens around. Come harvest time, he would share with his family and neighbors. Fishing was something he loved and wished he could have done more often. Another pastime he recently rekindled was beekeeping. He enjoyed checking on his bees and eating honey. Come harvest time, he was like Pooh Bear.
Family and special friends lovingly carried Pap’s body to his final resting place. Pallbearers were: Jimmy Smith, Taylor Fugate, Wesley Wilder, Andrew Green, Trevor Blackburn, Neil Blackburn, Dave Polk and Josh Jones. Special attendants were Willow and Zane.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests you make a loving donation to your favorite Christian charity or church.
Visitation was held from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, at Sharp Funeral Home in Oliver Springs. The funeral followed at 2 p.m. with Bro. Jeff Parrott and Bro. Gene Roach officiating.
A graveside service with military honors followed at First Dutch Valley Baptist Church Cemetery in Clinton.
Sharp Funeral Home is proud to be serving the Cornett family during this time of need.
Richard Glenn Walker
February 25, 2026
Richard Glenn Walker, 66, of Townsend passed away Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026, at Prisma Health at Blount Memorial Hospital.
Richard was a preacher at Black Fox Primitive Baptist Church in Washburn.
After graduating from Everett High School, he joined the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a refueling specialist for petroleum, oils and lubricants. He was stationed at Elmendorf, Alaska; Warner Robins, Georgia; Austin, Texas; and an Illinois training camp. He was honorably discharged in 1981.
Following his military service, Richard worked for many years as a fabrication worker until declining health led to his retirement.
He loved spending time with family and friends, enjoying country cooking, square dancing with his wife, and woodworking.
He also had a passion for “making a garden.” He would plant the garden and put it in God’s hands to make it fruitful.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, especially his faithful four-legged companion, Midnight.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn Headrick Walker and Edith Rose Hembree Walker of Rockford; brother, John Daniel Walker of Townsend; sister, Sharon Ruth Walker Robson of Knoxville; and second wife, Louie Sharp Pyatt Walker of Heiskell.
He is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Amanda and Adam Hood of Seymour, Nikki Taylor of Maryville, and Bobbi Jo and Steven Myers of Maryville; first wife, Linda Walker of Maryville; grandchildren and great grandchildren, Alisha McMillan and daughters Maelynn Rose, Lillian; Nathan and Kayla Hood and son Lincoln; Desera Taylor, Dakota Taylor and daughters Chloe and Callie; Destinee and son Alias; Dylan Taylor, Jada Buchanan, and Steven Myers; step-daughter and husband, Debra Pyatt-Poore and Johnny Poore of Heiskell; step-grandson and wife, Hunter and Callahan Poore of Maryville; sister and brother-in-law, Ellen and David Coppinger of Maryville; nieces and nephews of Maryville, Stacie and Ben Wheeler; Chris Coppinger; Linda Rose Blakley; John Curtis Walker; special first cousins, Frances “Polly” Hall of Powell; Carla Peacock Swann of Alabama; Mike Hembree and Jerry Hembree of Maryville; Kevin Ledden of Knoxville; Donny Davis of Townsend and other family.
The family hosted a celebration of life and burial Sunday, March 1, 2026, beginning at 3:30 p.m., with the Rev. Jerry McBee officiating. Those attending are asked to meet at New Loyston Cemetery, 3970 Hickory Valley Road, Andersonville.
The family extends sincere thanks to Vanderbilt Transplant of Nashville, Summit Medical Group of Farragut, Dr. Kendra Hendon and Fresenius of Cedar Bluff, Smoky Mountain Meals on Wheels of Maryville, Blount County Community Action Agency, East Tennessee Human Resource Agency of Knoxville, and the many friends and loved ones who supported Richard and his family with prayers and encouragement over the years.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Safer Home Program in memory of Richard Walker, Blount County Community Action Agency, 3509 Tuckaleechee Pike, Maryville, TN 37803. The organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is in charge of arrangements.
Holleygamble.com.
Clara Elizabeth Jones
February 18, 2026
Clara Elizabeth Jones, “Liz,” was born March 29, 1938, in Clinton.
After working at Magnet Mills, Liz traveled to Michigan and worked for Ford Motor Co. for several years. She later returned to Tennessee and developed a deep interest in her family’s genealogy, beginning her research in the early 1970s.
Liz was diligent in her desire to document her family’s history. Without the benefit of computers, she conducted most of her research by writing letters, including correspondence to the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., and to contacts in various countries seeking historical information. She ultimately completed her work, publishing the Jones-Long family history and sharing it with relatives to preserve their heritage for future generations.
Although she once aspired to become a teacher but did not do so formally, Liz became a teacher of history to her family through her dedication and passion for preserving their story.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Etta Jones; brothers, Marshall, Ralph, Clyde, John, Roy and Charles Jones Jr.; and sisters, Mary Gerline (Berry), Stella Faye and Helen Sue.
She is survived by her sister-in-law, Jean; 14 nieces; and 19 nephews. Although she never had children of her own, she loved her nieces and nephews as her own.
A graveside service was held at R.W. Long Cemetery on Monday, Feb. 16, 2026, at 11 a.m.
Jackson Funeral Home and Cremation is in charge of arrangements.
Mary Lou Cooper Fox
February 18, 2026
Mary Lou Cooper Fox was born Oct. 19, 1935, in Strawberry Plains, Tennessee, to Horace Eugene Cooper and Betsy Irene (Pruett) Cooper. She received salvation as a teenager at Bells Campground Baptist Church in Powell.
A graduate of Powell High School, she married Lloyd Carl Fox in December 1955. Together, they established a loving home in Claxton.
From an early age, Mary Lou displayed remarkable vocal talent and a deep love of music. She earned a place in the Tennessee All-State Choir during her youth. As an adult, she sang alto with The Spring Hill Quartet and the Bill Moore Trio, and she was a featured artist on the album “Sentimental Season” (StowTown Records).
Above all, Mary Lou was devoted to serving others. She assisted with children’s Christmas dramas at Spring Hill Baptist Church, and helped develop the Vacation Bible School program at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Claxton. Her card ministry brought encouragement and hope to many.
Passionate about missions, she sponsored a Native American child in Arizona through adulthood and instilled in her children and others the importance of missionary work. Her greatest mission, however, was her service in the dietary department at Shannondale Nursing Facility and Assisted Living, where she brought double portions of kindness and care to hundreds of residents. She also prepared Wednesday evening meals for families at Grace Baptist Church in Karns.
In her later years, she became affectionately known as “Miss Mary.” She was known for her radiant smile and her frequent, heartfelt declaration, “The Lord has been really good to me.”
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd Carl Fox; son, Lowell Fox; niece, Susan Appleing; and brother, Jerry Cooper.
She is survived by her daughters, Shelby Fox Haun and Karen Vaulton, both of Claxton; a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild expected in September; brothers, Connie, Kenneth and James Cooper; and special nieces, Pat Foreman and Tina Carroll, whom she served as an honorary mother.
The family extends thanks to dear friends Doug Hatmaker and Larry and Ginny Wise, and to the staff at Ben Atchley State Veterans Home in Knoxville for their loving care and support during Miss Mary’s final days.
The family received friends from noon to 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, at Bells Campground Baptist Church in Powell, follwed by a funeral.
Interment followed at Bells Campground Cemetery.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home is proud to be serving the Fox family.
Hollygamble.com
Judith Gail Bailey
February 17, 2026
Judith Gail Bailey, 79, of Clinton fulfilled her heartfelt wish to return home before her passing, surrounded by her loving family, on Feb. 17, 2026. Born June 14, 1946, in Anderson County, she was the daughter of the late Margaret Graham.
Judith was a proud and devoted member of North Clinton Baptist Church. Her gentle spirit and deep passion for the Lord touched everyone she met, shining most brightly in the many years she taught Sunday School.
She shared her faith and wisdom with warmth and grace, leaving a lasting impact on those who learned from her and worshipped alongside her.
For many years, Judith was cherished at Hardee’s in South Clinton, where her kindness brightened the mornings of customers and co-workers alike. She earned a reputation as one of the restaurant’s best biscuit makers, pouring love into every batch.
Before her time at Hardee’s, she worked in the bakery department at Ingles.
Judith found happiness in crafts and sewing, hobbies she held dear. Above all, her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, whom she loved deeply.
In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Bailey; and her grandson, Devon Bailey.
She is survived by her children, Carl Bailey and wife Jennifer of Clinton, Karen Beets and husband Mike of Heiskell, Carletta Bailey and wife Lisa of North Carolina, Jackie Smith and husband Gary of Clinton, and Eddie Bailey and wife Janice of Clinton; 21 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and her fur companion, Sarge.
The family received friends from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, at Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton. The funeral followed in the chapel with the Revs. Jason Goins and Gary Smith officiating.
A graveside service immediately followed at Grandview Memorial Garden.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the Anderson County Animal Shelter, 1480 Blockhouse Valley Road, Clinton, TN 37716.
Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton was in charge of all arrangements.
holleygamble.com.
Toliver R. Thomas
February 12, 2026
Toliver R. Thomas was born March 29, 1947, in Newport, Tennessee, and passed away Feb. 12, 2026, in Lubbock, Texas.
Known as Tom or Tommy by his large and close-knit family of uncles, aunts and cousins, Toliver was a die-hard Tennessee Volunteers fan. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, photography, traveling, gardening, cooking, baking, swimming, woodworking and telling stories. He was known for his remarkable memory and zest for life.
Toliver graduated from Clinton High School in 1965 and attended Carson-Newman College in Jefferson City. He joined the U.S. Air Force in February 1969 and was deployed to Panama, where he specialized in radio electronics. He later was stationed at Cannon Air Force Base in Clovis, New Mexico, and was honorably discharged in December 1974. During his time in Portales, New Mexico, he attended Eastern New Mexico University and earned two master’s degrees.
Following graduation, Toliver became an industrial arts teacher at Hobbs High School, where he served for 18 years. During that time, he also taught woodworking for the continuing education department at New Mexico Junior College. In 1992, he became principal at Edison Elementary School, where he met Anita, whom he hired as his secretary. He enjoyed working with students and teachers until his retirement in 1998, when he moved to Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
About a year later, Toliver reconnected with Anita, and their renewed friendship led to his return to Hobbs. They were united in marriage May 28, 2000, at First Methodist Church. Shortly thereafter, he began a 20-year career as a driver’s education instructor at New Mexico Junior College, a role he truly cherished.
During their 25½ years of marriage, their blended family — Toliver’s two sons and Anita’s three daughters — grew to include 14 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
They cherished traveling to Tennessee every other Christmas to spend time with Toliver’s family, and visiting Anita’s daughter and her family in North Carolina. Toliver especially treasured trips to Johnson City, Tennessee, where he enjoyed visiting his beloved Aunt Agnes. Together, Toliver and Anita shared many memorable road trips to various destinations.
He was preceded in death by his biological mother, Vevette Thomas; his father, Toliver Howard Thomas; his second mother, Marion Ponder Thomas; his brother, Dick; his nephew, Allen; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.
He is survived by his wife, Anita; sons, Clay (Chantell) and Kurt (Jill); daughters, Angela (Ronnie), Amanda (Jared) and Alyssa; grandchildren, Knox, Lucas, Louis, Taylor (Cody), Kaylee (Joe), Bradley, Joshua (Alexis), Makalah, Kaci, Brianna, Lily, Cienna, Laila and Derek; great-grandchildren, Dean, Reagan, Rayleigh, Ella and Jesiah; brother, David (Carolyn); sister-in-law, Suzanne; aunts, Agnes and Sarah; uncle, Hershel; and many cousins.
Visitation was held from 1 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, at Chapel of Hope. A memorial service was held Friday, Feb. 20, at First Methodist Church in Hobbs, New Mexico.
The family extends special thanks to the VA and Del & Associates for their support.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Toliver’s honor to First Methodist Church Men’s Group, 200 E. Snyder, Hobbs, NM 88240, or to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675, or online.
Joyce Jean Pettiford
February 12, 2026
Joyce Jean Pettiford, 89, of Clinton passed away in her sleep Feb. 12, 2026, at her residence.
She was born April 1, 1936, to Edgar and Ozell Mashburn. Joyce was a hardworking and spunky mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who leaves behind a legacy of joy and compassion. She touched the lives of everyone she encountered.
Joyce was employed at Levi Strauss for 28 years and later retired from TTE Casting after nine years of service.
She was of the Baptist faith and was a loving and giving mother, friend, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was also an avid Vols fan. Joyce enjoyed trips to the beach and visiting Harrah’s Casino with her daughter.
She was as lively as she was compassionate. She will be deeply missed and cherished for the love she gave us in her time here. Her vibrant spirit and generous heart were a beacon to all who knew her. She was always ready to care for and serve others, leaving a lasting mark on her family and the many friends she made throughout her life.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Edgar and Ozell Easterwood Mashburn; her loving son, Charles “Eddie” Pettiford; brothers, Arnold, Arthur, Noel, James and Junior; and sister, Lula Mae Brickman.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Brenda Ogg; loving grandson, Lance Pettiford; great-grandson, Henry Pettiford; Lance Pettiford’s fiancée, Kayla Jenkins; and soon-to-be great-granddaughter, Sawyer Pettiford, who is expected to arrive Feb. 18. Though Joyce was unable to meet her, the family feels blessed to know they crossed paths on their way in and out of this world.
Joyce will be remembered through countless stories and memories she shared with her daughter, grandson, great-grandchildren and many friends.
A graveside service was held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, at Woodhaven Memorial Gardens.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Pettiford family.
holleygamble.com.
Rhonda Tresa Raby
February 11, 2026
Rhonda Tresa Raby of Clinton passed away peacefully Feb. 11, 2026, at age 69.
Born June 16, 1956, in Oak Ridge, she grew to become a vibrant and larger-than-life presence, known for her warmth, compassion, and spirited enthusiasm for life. Rhonda found great joy in spending time at the Senior Center. She loved quilting, and had a deep appreciation for nature, particularly in her love for bird watching, where she found solace and joy in the simple beauty of the world around her.
Family was central to her life. She delighted in quality time spent with her nieces and nephews, and cherished every moment shared with them. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her relatives to the animals she cared for. Rhonda’s legacy will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Boyd C. and Delsie Raby; sisters, Dora Lou Raby, Lois Jean Lewis, Edna Carter Phillips and Beula Mae Davis; and brother, Loyd Dean Raby.
She is survived by her sisters, Trula Hill, Betty (David) Phillips, Kathy Moore and Donna (Bobby) Simmons; brother, Ray (Lisa) Raby; brother-in-law, C.L. (Cindy) Phillips; and several nieces and nephews, along with a host of family and friends.
The family received friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, at Jones Mortuary in Clinton. The funeral followed at 7 p.m., with the Rev. Glen Marlow officiating.
A graveside service and interment was held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, at Pleasant View Cemetery in Clinton.
