Michael Raymond “Mike” Warwick
October 5, 2025
Michael Raymond “Mike” Warwick, 77, of Clinton passed away Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025.
Mike attended Powell High School before proudly serving in the U.S. Air Force. He later served the city of Clinton in both the police and fire departments for many years, retiring as assistant fire chief.
After retirement, he became the owner and operator of C&M Painting Company.
Mike was an amazing cook who loved feeding his friends and family. He also enjoyed bird watching, especially watching his hummingbirds.
He was preceded in death by his son, Tony Anderson; parents, E.A. “Jack” Warwick Jr. and Veda Louise Warwick; grandmother, Nannie Robbie Shelley Warwick; and aunt, Mary Katherine Nickle.
He is survived by his loving wife, Cindy Lee Warwick; daughter, Shelley Bolin and husband Todd; son, Michael Brandon Warwick and wife Brandi; brothers, E.A. Warwick III and Timothy Mark Warwick Sr. and wife Tonya; mother-in-law, Barbara Anderson; grandchildren, Whitley Anderson and fiancé Jonathon Cole, Kendra Bolin, Hudson Warwick and Henley Warwick; and a host of extended family and friends.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025, from 5-7 p.m. in the chapel of Mott-McKamey Funeral Home, followed by a funeral at 7 p.m.
A graveside service at the Veterans Cemetery will be scheduled at a later date.
Mott-McKamey Funeral Home and Cremations is assisting the Warwick family.
Rosetta Phillips-Peeples
October 2, 2025
Rosetta Phillips-Peeples, 75, of Jacksonville, Florida, formerly of Lake City, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at her home Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, with her husband of 36 years, Dave Peeples, by her side, following a courageous battle with cancer.
Known as “Sissy” to her family and many childhood friends from Lake City High School, she was a Laker cheerleader, voted “Miss Sophomore,” and remembered for her infectious laugh and beautiful dimples.
Rosetta was baptized and was a longtime member of Main Street Baptist Church in Lake City (now Rocky Top). Following her 1967 graduation from Lake City High School, she enjoyed a long career as a medical records transcriptionist. She was a proud member of the American Association of Medical Transcription (AAMT) and retired from the prestigious Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenny Phillips and Christine Disney Phillips of Lake City.
She is survived by her husband and caregiver, Dave Peeples (U.S. Navy, retired) of Jacksonville; sister, Becky Phillips Parker (Ron Parker) of Lake Norman, North Carolina; niece, Christy Cupp Ward (Brian Ward) of Nampa, Idaho; nephew, Alec Cupp of Knoxville, Tennessee; great-nephews and great-nieces, Tyler Ward (Alexis) of Colfax, Washington; Grace Ward (fiancé Sandy Agrawal) of New York City; Jennifer Ward (Almat Yeraly) of Kazakhstan; Jonathan, Sarah and Daniel Ward, all of Nampa; and Rylee Cupp of Knoxville.
Per Rosetta’s wishes, she was cremated and no services are planned. A gifted pianist, her husband will place her urn on her beloved baby grand piano, which she played daily until her illness prevented her from doing so.
As her illness progressed and communication became difficult, her husband shared that the only words she would utter were “Where’s Papaw?”—the affectionate name all the grandchildren used for her father, Kenny “Papaw” Phillips. The family takes comfort in believing her father was near her in those final days, gently leading her home to the waiting arms of her mother, Christine.
A lover of Southern gospel music, Rosetta found peace as her husband surrounded her with her favorite hymns during her transition. The family expresses gratitude for the many prayers, messages, and the compassionate hospice care provided in Jacksonville.
Rosetta “Sissy” is now at peace, free from pain, with her infectious laughter ringing through heaven.
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” — Matthew 5:4
Elizabeth (Betty) Ann Smith
October 1, 2025
With great sadness, the family of Elizabeth A. “Betty” Smith announces her passing. She died peacefully at her home on Oct. 1, 2025, with her best friend and caregiver, Jessica Belfiore, by her side.
Betty was born July 21, 1928, in Dayton, Ohio, to Herbert W. and Grace B. Smith. She graduated from Fairview White High School in 1946, where she received the American Legion Award for Citizenship, was a member of the National Honor Society, served as secretary of her senior class and was elected May Queen.
She attended Lincoln Memorial University, where she met the love of her life, Paul Smith. The couple had their first date on Nov. 1, 1946, married on Jan. 28, 1948, and graduated together from the Cincinnati College of Pharmacy in 1950 with bachelor of science degrees in pharmacy.
They shared more than 70 years of marriage before Paul’s death on Nov. 1, 2018 — the 72nd anniversary of their first date.
After graduation, Betty and Paul moved to Clinton in 1950, where they raised their two children and became the last original residents of Highland Drive in the Oak Heights subdivision — Clinton’s first subdivision.
A longtime member of First Baptist Church of Clinton, Betty served faithfully in the preschool department for many years. She received the Home Federal Bank Hometown Hero Award for her service at the Christian Service Center, and volunteered at the Interfaith Health Clinic.
She was also a member of Timely Topics and a devoted Girl Scout leader, earning the Thanks Award in 1969 and the Thanks II Award in 1996 for her work with the Daisy’s Place Museum.
Betty was among the first female pharmacists in the Clinton area. She began her career at Norris Drug Store, later worked at Elm Grove Drug Store in Oak Ridge, and retired after 21 years at Clinton Drug Co., where she worked alongside her husband.
An avid outdoorswoman, Betty made 17 trips to Mt. LeConte and held a second-degree black belt in Isshin-Ryu karate. She enjoyed cooking — especially her famous banana bread, which she loved sharing with friends — and working crossword puzzles.
She is survived by my children and sister Shirley Haefele of Rochester, New York, many wonderful friends and cousins and neighbors, Carisa and Jason, Cloyds, Jack Jones, and best friend and caregiver Jessica. Jessica and Betty were each other’s sidekicks, going everywhere together and sharing a profound relationship. Many people thought Jessica was the daughter; Betty, her mom. They never corrected anyone about this, just acted as if it were true.
In addition to her husband and parents, Betty was preceded in death by many dear friends who enriched her life.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, 2025, at Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton. A funeral will follow at 7 p.m., conducted by the Rev. Terry Baker and Dr. Daniel Chisholm. Music will be provided by the Rev. David Whipple Jr., accompanied by Charlotte Bounds.
Interment following cremation will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at Grandview Memorial Garden in Clinton. Those who wish to join the funeral procession should gather at Holley Gamble Funeral Home beginning at 2:15 p.m. The procession will depart promptly at 2:30 p.m. Dr. Daniel Chisholm will lead a devotional and prayer prior to interment.
Favorite quote:
“All things bright and beautiful, all creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful, the Lord God made them all.”
— Anglican hymn, circa 1848
Favorite Bible verse:
“With God all things are possible.”
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to:
First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 268, Clinton, TN 37717; Interfaith Health Clinic, 315 Gill Ave., Knoxville, TN 37917; Girl Scout Museum at Daisy’s Place, GSCSA, 1567 Downtown West Blvd., Knoxville, TN 37919; or to a charity of your choice.
Holley Gamble Funeral Home is honored to serve the Smith family.
holleygamble.com
Taylor LeeAnn Bales
October 1, 2025
Taylor LeeAnn Bales, 25, of Powell passed away on Oct. 1, 2025, at Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge.
She was born on Oct. 7, 1999, in Knoxville, to Harold Bales and Brandy LeeAnn Daniel Rhea.
Taylor worked as a sales associate for JCPenney. She loved her baby boy, who was the center of her world. She also enjoyed social media, makeup, and spending time with her family.
She was preceded in death by her father, Harold Bales; great-grandparents, Sammy and Hattie Lee Watson; grandfather, David Bales Sr.; grandmother, Teiresa Hammers; and uncle, Paul Rhea.
She is survived by her parents, Brandy and William Rhea; son, Colton Geoffrion; brother, Trevor Rhea; sister, Hailee Moser; grandmothers, Patricia Daniel and Joyce Beckham; cousin, James Bales and wife, Becky; aunt, Donna Rhea; and special friend, Zach Geoffrion. She is also survived by a host of other family members and friends.
Visitation was held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, at Hatmaker Funeral Home in Lake City. Services followed at 7 p.m. in the Hatmaker Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Jamie Brewster officiating.
David R. Irwin
September 29, 2025
David R. Irwin, 93, passed away peacefully Sept. 29, 2025, at his home of more than 62 years in Clinton.
He was born Jan. 3, 1932, in Union County, to Glenn G. and Ruth Rice Irwin. As a child, David and his family were relocated twice — first from their home in the Loyston community during the construction of Norris Dam, and later from Robertsville during the Manhattan Project. In 1942, they settled on a farm in the Bethel community, where David would spend the rest of his life.
David graduated from Norris High School in 1949. In the early 1960s, he met the love of his life, Carolyn Hobbs. They were married Feb. 16, 1963, and shared 50 wonderful years together, building a family grounded in faith, hard work and devotion.
A lifelong farmer, David operated a dairy farm and raised beef cattle and tobacco. He was happiest with his hands in the soil — cultivating vegetables, nurturing flowers and growing what friends and family still call his “legendary tomatoes.” His love of the land was matched by his love for his community. He served on several local boards, including the Anderson County Farm Bureau, Anderson County Co-Op (where he was an incorporating chairman), and the Anderson County Soil Conservation District. For many years, he also managed a polling place on Election Day, faithfully ensuring his neighbors could vote.
David was a skilled woodworker who crafted many beautiful pieces of furniture for his home. He hand-carved birds and other intricate works and became especially known among family and friends for creating customized boxes designed to safeguard their most cherished memories.
He was a member of Andersonville United Methodist Church for more than 60 years, where he served as Sunday School superintendent and supported countless church activities.
To many, he was affectionately “Uncle David.” He and Carolyn were a daily presence at the Museum of Appalachia, where they enjoyed lunch and fellowship with friends, old and new.
Of all his blessings, David’s greatest joy was his family, especially his granddaughter, Katherine. He cherished their time together — teaching her to whittle, sharing gardening wisdom and passing along the traditions that defined his life.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carolyn; son, Robert David Irwin; parents, Glenn and Ruth Irwin; brother, John Rice Irwin; and niece, Karen Erickson.
He is survived by his daughter, Anne Irwin Buhl (Hector Padilla); granddaughter, Katherine Buhl; son-in-law, Joseph Buhl; niece, Elaine (Ed) Meyer; grand-niece, Lindsey (Jason) Meyer Gallaher; grand-nephews, John (Sara) Meyer and Will (Molly) Meyer; great-grandnephews, Meyer and Parker Gallaher; great-grandnieces, Rese, Avery and Landry Meyer; and special cousin, Beverly Stooksbury Leitner.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to those who lovingly cared for David: Kathy and Eddie Justice, and Patti and Angie. The family deeply appreciates the tender care of the UT Hospice team — especially Justin Bradshaw, Olivia and Nicole — whose compassion brought comfort during his final months.
A funeral was held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at Holley Gamble Funeral Home, followed by interment at Norris Memorial Gardens. Family and friends attended a reception at the Museum of Appalachia afterward.
Pallbearers were Katherine Buhl, Joseph Buhl, Mark Irwin, John Meyer, Will Meyer and Hector Padilla.
Memorial contributions may be made in David’s honor to the Museum of Appalachia, P.O. Box 1189, Norris, TN 37828.
Holley Gamble Funeral Home is proud to have served the Irwin family.
holleygamble.com
Charles Frank Mounger
September 23, 2025
Charles Frank Mounger, 101, passed away on Sept. 23, 2025.
He was born Nov. 3, 1923, to William C. and Snowa Flake Ellis Mounger. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mary Helen Mounger; three siblings; and grandson, Jerry Charles “Chuck” Mounger.
Frank’s early years were spent working on the family farm and attending Scarboro School, where he was an accomplished basketball player.
He served his country honorably as a U.S. Marine during World War II, fighting on Iwo Jima and witnessing the iconic flag raising on Mount Suribachi. After returning home to Clinton, he married his one true love, Mary Helen Stout. They were blessed with three sons and a daughter. Mary Helen passed away after 25 years of marriage.
Frank worked for 41 years on the evening shift at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where he also enjoyed playing in the company baseball and basketball leagues. A devoted single father, he filled his days with work, mowing yards, and enjoying his CB radio hobby.
He was a longtime member of Saint Mark United Methodist Church and a member of Free and Accepted Masons Alpha Lodge No. 376. In retirement, one of his most meaningful experiences was participating in an HonorAir Flight to Washington, D.C., a deeply moving tribute to his service.
Frank is survived by his children and their spouses, Jerry Frank (Jane) Mounger, Gary Brent (Becky) Mounger, Dale Steven Mounger, and Rhonda Kay (Gary) Allender; grandchildren, Melanie Mounger, Andy (Bethany) Mounger, Jake (Nicole) Mounger, Gary Mounger, Brock (Dana) Allender, and Jill (Dustin) Scobey; and great-grandchildren, Gibson, Kinley, Gabriel and Gwendolyn Mounger; Aubrey, Boone, Isla and Briggs Allender; and Diana Scobey.
“The love remains, the absence echoes.” – Semper Fi
The family received friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, at Holley Gamble Funeral Home. The funeral followed in the chapel. Interment followed at Woodhaven Memorial Gardens in Claxton.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to HonorAir, P.O. Box 12990, Knoxville, TN 37912, (865) 859-9279; or Clinch River Quilts of Valor, c/o Gwen Cole, 193 Laurel Road, Clinton, TN 37716, (865) 304-9717.
Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is in charge of arrangements.
holleygamble.com
Jo Ann Nelson
September 22, 2025
Jo Ann Nelson, 83, of Lake City passed away on Sept. 22, 2025, at her home.
Born July 28, 1942, in Turtletown, Tennessee, she was the daughter of the late Woodrow “Woody” Disney and Ruby Harmon Disney.
Jo Ann was a member of Island Ford Baptist Church. She loved working on the farm and being outdoors. She also enjoyed crafts and woodworking.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Jennifer Jo Hawkins Suddeth; and her husbands, Kenneth “Joe” Hawkins and Jerry Nelson.
She is survived by her sons, Kenny Hawkins and Paula Winchester, and Jason Hawkins and Hope; brothers, James Woodrow Disney, J.C. Disney and wife Gail, and Jerry Lynn Disney and wife Charlotte; and grandchildren, Jasmyne Prentiss Hawkins and Taylor Alexandria Hawkins.
She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, and many other family members and friends.
The family received friends from 5–7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, at Hatmaker Funeral Home in Lake City.
The funeral followed at 7 p.m. in the chapel of Hatmaker Funeral Home.
Interment was held at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 3, at the Lovely Family Cemetery in Lake City.
Herman Lamar Long
September 17, 2025
Herman Lamar Long, 82, passed on to his heavenly home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.
He was born May 11, 1943, in Clinton to Dorsey and Flonnie Long.
Herman was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife of 40 years, Frances Long; his son, Charles Long; his daughter-in-law, Lisa Long; and seven brothers and sisters.
For Herman, family was his life, and he cherished his role as a father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his son Roger Long; daughter Sherri Fowler and husband, Jeff Fowler; and son Mark Long and fiancée, Shauna Stevenson. He is also survived by grandchildren Amanda Fox and husband, Shawn Fox; Cameron Moore; and Brendan Fowler; great-grandchildren Eleanor Fox and Ranger Fox; many nieces and nephews; and his special friend Alvin Jones.
A faithful servant of the Lord, Herman was a longtime member and former deacon at Poplar Creek Baptist Church in Clinton. He worked as a respected insurance agent for American General Life Insurance Co. for 25 years, where he built a loyal client base and earned recognition from the Million Dollar Roundtable, one of the highest honors in the life insurance industry. Even after retirement, he continued to represent clients, many of whom he considered friends.
Outside of work, Herman cherished time with family and friends. He was an avid University of Tennessee athletics fan, enjoyed stock car racing, and loved country and gospel music. He had a lifelong passion for cooking for those he loved and was known for his generous heart and open table. Herman was loved and very respected by all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.
Services were held Friday, Sept. 19, 2025, at Poplar Creek Baptist Church in Clinton. The receiving of friends began at noon and the funeral followed. A graveside service was held afterward at Grandview Memorial Garden in Clinton.
Holley Gamble Funeral Home of Clinton is in charge of arrangements.
