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.
Kathleen Eleanor Sharp Wallace
February 6, 2026
Kathleen Eleanor Sharp Wallace, 96, of Andersonville walked into the arms of her Lord on Jan. 29, 2026.
She was born March 14, 1929, in Bloomington, Illinois, to Leonard and Kathleen (Eberle) Sharp. She was raised in Andersonville with her older sister, Ruth McCarty; younger sister, Marie Ann; and younger brother, Keith Sharp. She attended Andersonville School and graduated from Norris High School. Kathleen met her future husband and the love of her life at Andersonville School. They were married Nov. 3, 1947, and shared 65 joyful years before Joe’s passing in 2013.
Kathleen was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Andersonville, where she served as a Sunday School teacher and was active in the Delta Rho Sunday School Class.
She spent countless hours ministering to her local community through meals, visits, cards, and prayers. Her family and many friends were blessed with years of Sunday dinners at Granny’s. Kathleen prepared the food, but Joe peeled the potatoes.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Wallace; infant daughter, Tonya Marie; her parents, Leonard and Kathleen Sharp; sister, Ruth McCarty; and brother, Keith Sharp.
She is survived by her children, Joe Wallace Jr. and wife, Sheila, of Andersonville, Ann W. Wheeler, of Andersonville, Dr. Rebecca Broadbent and husband, Andrew, of Brevard, North Carolina; grandchildren, Emily (Frits) Haverkamp, Amanda (Walter) Mayes, Julie Wallace (Chris Harris), Melissa (Lance) Freeman, Jayme (Patrick) Smith, Aaron Wheeler, Rachel Broadbent (Jack Figueroa), and Alexa (Geoff) Saltarelli; and great-grandchildren, Foust and Malon Haverkamp; Allie and Eberle Mayes; Ansley and Josie Freeman; Anna Kay Smith; Clayton and Bailey Wheeler; and Romi Saltarelli.
She is also survived by her sister, Marie Ann McCarty of Kansas City, Missouri; sister-in-law, Mary Thomas of Knoxville; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Kathleen had a strong work ethic and was rarely idle. She and her husband, Joe, owned and operated a general store in Andersonville. She later worked as a receptionist for Dr. Hall and Dr. Heddon in Clinton, as a secretary for Farm Bureau in Clinton, and most recently as a secretary for the Anderson County Highway Department. When not working, Kathleen enjoyed reading, doing word puzzles, creating cross-stitch, studying the Bible, going to the lake, and keeping Joe out of trouble.
Kathleen was an avid sports fan and spent many hours watching her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. If one of her family members was participating in something, she was there to watch.
She will be remembered for her quick wit, warm laugh, love of card games, and the open door of her welcoming home. Kathleen was the true family matriarch. Her home was the gathering place for generations of family, and she will be deeply missed by all.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, Feb. 4, from 4 to 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Andersonville, and the funeral followed, officiated by Jerry Loveday. The interment service will be held Thursday, Feb. 5, at 11 a.m. at Andersonville Cemetery.
Holley Gamble Funeral Home is proud to be serving the Wallace family during this difficult time.
holleygamble.com
Betty J. Bramlette
February 5, 2026
Betty J. Bramlette, 82, of Clinton passed away Feb. 5, 2026, at Tennova North Health Center.
Betty loved the Lord and was very active in her church prior to her illness. She loved her family and everyone she met. She was nicknamed “Smiley” at Norris Health and Rehab, where she spent the last three years of her life. She was an avid University of Tennessee fan and watched the Vols whenever she could.
She loved Coke Zero and could tell the difference if Pepsi was purchased instead.
She adored Cades Cove and spent many hours there. She loved Big Ed’s Pizza, which she enjoyed each year on her birthday.
A great cook, Betty shared her secret hot dog chili recipe with her family, a favorite at all family gatherings. Even when she ate very little toward the end of her life, she would always enjoy a Git’N Go hot dog.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Bud and Louise Kennedy; her husband, Carrol J. Bramlette; sons, Charles E. Bramlette and Douglas Carrol Bramlette; brothers, James, Robert, Henry and Earl; sisters, Billie, Shirley and Caroline; and a brother-in-law, Kenneth R. Helms.
She is survived by her son, James B. Bramlette and wife Gail of Clinton; her sister, Janice Knox of Corbin, Kentucky; a special niece, Camillia Howells and husband Ernie of Corbin, Kentucky; several nieces and nephews; and a host of friends. She was often referred to as “Mamaw Betty” by many neighborhood children, a name she dearly loved.
The family will receive friends Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Holley-Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton. A private burial will be held at Oak Ridge Memorial Park.
The family extends special thanks to the staff at Norris Health and Rehab for the care and love shown to Betty during the last three years of her life.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home is proud to be serving the Bramlette family.
holleygamble.com.
Lloyd “Eddie” McConkey
February 4, 2026
Lloyd “Eddie” McConkey, 84, of Rocky Top passed away peacefully Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. He was born Feb. 24, 1941, in Sweetwater, Tennessee, to Lloyd and Ruth McConkey.
Eddie was the longtime owner and operator of Eddie’s Barber Shop in Clinton. He devoted many years to his work as a barber, serving the community with skill and kindness.
He enjoyed life on the farm, raising cattle, and camping, pursuits that brought him great joy. Eddie was a member of Glade Spring Baptist Church.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Elizabeth Braden and Billie Shelby; his brother, James McConkey; his nephews, Michael Braden and Mark McConkey; and his niece, Myra Glandon.
Survivors include his wife, Leona McConkey of Rocky Top; sister, Virginia Richards of Knoxville; special nephews, Jeffrey Braden and Randy Braden; and several nieces, cousins, friends and other family members.
A graveside service was be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, at Oak Grove Baptist Church Cemetery, with the Rev. Chris Stanley officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is in charge of arrangements.
holleygamble.com.
