Bobby Arthur Leach
April 18, 2025
Bobby Arthur Leach, 82, of Clinton passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family, on Friday, April 18, 2025. He was born June 1, 1942, in Chattanooga and was born again on June 6, 1965.
Bobby was born to W.H. and Mavia Leach, and was raised in New River by his grandparents, the late Lewis and Belle Coker. He was a U.S. Army veteran who served in Vietnam. After his service, he attended the University of Tennessee on the GI Bill and earned a degree in business administration.
Bobby worked as an ironworker and later became vice president of Ohio Valley Riggers and Erectors Inc. before returning to East Tennessee to enter the coal industry. He was a stockholder in several mining companies and other businesses throughout Tennessee and Kentucky. Following his time in mining, he focused on B&D Equipment Company, Inc., which specializes in large-scale excavation and mining reclamation projects.
A man of deep faith, Bobby was a member of Clinch River Baptist Church. He faithfully attended Sunday School at Clinch River and worship services at Beech Park Baptist Church. He enjoyed spending time with his family, cheering on Lady Vols basketball, and riding ATVs in the mountains of East Tennessee.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Ronnie Coker Leach, Jimmy Leach and Doug Leach; his aunt and uncle, Pearl and Reuben Phillips; and his uncle, Verldon Coker — all of whom played vital roles in his upbringing.
He is survived by his children, Lori Ellis and husband Mike of Rocky Top; Robbie Leach and wife Kim of Oliver Springs; and Brad Leach of Somerset, California; grandchildren, Beth Higgins and husband Jon, Brooke Ellis, Blair Martin and husband Brian, Blake Leach and wife Shana, and Kayla Elliott; great-grandchildren, Lola Ellis, Baylor Higgins, Belle Higgins, Zoey Elliott and Rook Leach; brothers, Gary Leach and wife Amy, Randy Leach and Billy Jacobs; sister, Cissy Hurd and husband Steve; and several cousins and many other relatives and friends.
Robbie and Lori extend a heartfelt thank you to the Bob Swisher family for their years of unconditional love, friendship and support for their daddy.
The family received friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, April 21, at Beech Park Baptist Church, 1085 E. Tri-County Blvd., Oliver Springs. A funeral followed at 7 p.m., with his son, Robbie Leach, officiating.
A graveside service was be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 22, at Phillips Cemetery in New River. Pallbearers were David Cofer, Dennis Coday, Jason Bunch, Kerry Templin, Jackie Phillips and Mickey Phillips.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Beech Park Baptist Church Building Fund.
Leach Family Funeral Home and Cremation is honored to serve the Leach family.
leachfamilyfuneralhome.com
Stacey Dawn Sievers
April 16, 2025
Stacey Dawn Sievers, 59, of Heiskell, passed away at her residence.
She was born July 29, 1965, in Asheville, North Carolina, and graduated from Clinton High School in the class of 1983. Stacey grew up in the Claxton community.
Her life was a testament to her love of books and writing. She had a deep passion and talent for writing, which she nurtured throughout her life. Her love for reading and collecting books was immeasurable.
She created blogs on Facebook titled “Healing Morning” and “Healing Morning II.”
Stacey also enjoyed crocheting and made many blankets over the years. She especially loved snow and considered it one of nature’s most beautiful sights. She adored Snoopy and all the Peanuts characters, and she had a special fondness for otters.
Stacey’s professional journey was equally diverse and accomplished. She worked with many companies creating websites, producing technical writing, and helping new businesses get started. She was a licensed massage therapist and NAIC tech, and also worked as a makeup artist with Glamour Shots.
Stacey had a loving heart and a generous spirit. She loved many, and loved big.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Billy E. Sievers and Janet Regan Sievers.
She is survived by her brother, Elliott Taylor Sievers and his wife, Lara Strickland Sievers; sister, Paige Lenore Sievers; nephews, Garrett Taylor and Mason Douglas; brother-in-law, Edward J. McGimsey; and caregiver, Lisa B. Ross. She also leaves behind many extended family members and friends. Stacey’s love for her family and friends was as boundless as her other passions, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a library of your choice, or books may be donated in her memory.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is in charge of arrangements.
holleygamble.com
James C. “Jim” Ilar
April 10, 2025
James C. “Jim” Ilar, 81, of Clinton passed away on April 10, 2025. He was born in Charleston, West Virginia, and was a longtime member of St. Mark’s United Methodist Church.
Jim was a natural-born salesman, working with companies including J.C. Penney, Great Dane and GE Trailers. When he wasn’t working, he could be found fishing on Norris Lake — day and night on the weekends — with his son, Jimmy Ilar, or with friends. He won multiple fishing tournaments on Norris Lake, Watts Bar Lake and Melton Hill Lake, frequently bringing home 10 or more fish per trip.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Calvin C. and Charlotte Ilar; his brother, Paul Ilar; and his son, Jimmy N. “Jim” Ilar.
Jim is survived by his wife of 61 years, Norma L. Ilar; daughter, Joy L. Ilar; grandsons, Cameron J. McGhee and Landon J. McGhee, both of Clinton; granddaughters, Molli I. (Sam) Nyburg and great-grandson, Hyland Nyburg, all of Knoxville, Emmalee I. Hart and family, Lenzi I. Valedon and family, and Sarah Ilar; several great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson.
He is also survived by sisters-in-law Barb (Andy) Darnell and Nancie (David) Butler; nieces, Jessica Henry and Jennifer Parris; great-nephews, Brandon D. McGhee, Ryan D. McGhee and Joshua Lloyd; great-niece, Maggie Lloyd; and Jason (Ashley) McGhee.
A memorial service will be held at a later date and will be planned by his wife and daughter.
Peggy Sue Jeffers
April 9, 2025
Peggy Sue Jeffers (née Chase), 77, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on April 9, 2025, in Oak Ridge.
Born July 6, 1947, in Briceville, Peggy lived a life marked by deep devotion to her family and her work.
She dedicated more than 30 years to the medical field, retiring from Covenant Health after a long and faithful career. Her commitment to caring for others was a defining part of her life.
She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Jimmy Jeffers; her children, Steve Jeffers and wife, Carol, Keith Jeffers and wife, Amy, Saundra Rodgers and husband, Steven, and Kevin Jeffers and wife, Becky; and her grandchildren, Brittany Jeffers, Lauren Williams, Zachary Jeffers, Maggie Jeffers, Patrick Adcox, Skylor Roberts, Sarah Howard, Brock Beaty, Sawyer Reed, Shawnee Reed, Isabella Rodgers, and Stevie Rodgers. She also leaves behind her great-grandchildren, Elijiah, Nolan, Madison, Kolton, River, Maverick, and Ryan.
Peggy is also survived by her brothers, Jimmy Chase, Vaughn Chase and Johnny Chase.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Woodrow and Hazel Chase, and her brother, Tommy Chase.
A private service will be held at a later date to honor her life.
May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.
Jones Mortuary is serving the family of Peggy Jeffers.
Regina M. “Jeanie” Bertram
April 8, 2025
Regina “Jeanie” M. Bertram, 83, of Clinton died Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at her home.
She was born Sept. 13, 1941, in Albion, Illinois, to James R. and Darlene F. Mauller and spent her childhood in Monticello, Kentucky. Jeanie was a 1959 graduate of Monticello High School, where she played trombone in the high school band.
She was baptized at First Christian Church in Monticello, Kentucky, and went on to teach Sunday School and play piano at New Salem Baptist Church in Clinton. She later attended Ebenezer United Methodist Church in Knoxville and Memorial United Methodist Church in Clinton. She loved sharing Jesus’ love through her caring heart and warm smile and believed in honoring the Lord by serving others.
Jeanie worked briefly as a substitute teacher at Shinlever Elementary School before finding her calling in community service. She served for 27 years as executive director of the Anderson County Health Council, where she expanded the county dental clinic to provide care for those who couldn’t afford it. Through her leadership, the council also began dental education initiatives in local elementary schools. Even after retirement, she continued to help organize and support clinics offering indigent dental care to residents.
She was instrumental in supporting the county’s Healthy Start Program, which aimed to improve maternal and infant health outcomes. She also helped manage the Anderson County Life Development Center, which provided resources and support to youth aging out of foster care. Jeanie was also an active member of the United Way.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Thomas K. Bertram.
She is survived by her husband, Louis K. Bertram; sons, Sam (Gwen) Bertram and Max (Beth Ann) Bertram; brother, James (Karen) Mauller; sister, Charma (Doral) Ambrose; grandchildren, Josh Bertram, Alex Bertram, Shelby Bertram and Magnus Dickinson; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
The family received friends from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Holley-Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton. Burial will take place at a later date at Keeny Cemetery in Somerset, Kentucky.
William Archer “Archie” Rhodey
April 5, 2025
William Archer “Archie” Rhodey, 70, of Oak Ridge went to be with the Lord Saturday, April 5, 2025, He passed away at home surrounded by family and loved ones.
Born March 12, 1955, and raised in the Marlow community of Clinton, he was best known as Archer, Archie or Arch.
He dedicated many years of his life to serving his community — first as a volunteer with the Marlow Volunteer Fire Department and through a long career in public works for the city of Oak Ridge. After retirement, he continued to work part time in maintenance at Home Depot.
Archer’s passion was his garden, filled with vibrant flowers and vegetables. Strangers often stopped just to admire and photograph his handiwork. He also enjoyed NASCAR, wrestling, cold beer, grilling, fishing, and, most of all, spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He never missed a game, event or family gathering, always offering a listening ear, encouragement, or a helping hand.
He especially doted on his wife of 52 years, Linda. Even during a hospital stay, he secretly made arrangements to ensure flowers were delivered on their anniversary, March 27, so he wouldn’t miss a beat on their special day.
Known for his radiant smile, boisterous laugh, deep blue eyes and kind heart, Archer was beloved everywhere he went. He wore many hats in life, but in every role he was cherished — as a husband, father, papaw, uncle, brother and friend. He will be terribly missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Velma Louise (White) Rhodey and William Rhodey; siblings Connie Rhodey, Charlie Rhodey, Steve Rhodey, Billy Rhodey and Randy Rhodey; and sister-in-law Jeanie Rhodey.
He is survived by his loving wife, Linda A. Rhodey; daughters, Jaqueline Rhodey and Rebecca (Joseph) Washington; son, William “BB” Rhodey (Wendy); grandchildren, Xavier Underwood, Kiana Underwood, Katie Brown, William Brown, Angel Brown, Ivy-Lee McDonie, Hope Hicks and Gabe Rhodey; and seven great-grandchildren.
Also surviving are sisters-in-law Jean Rhodey and Susie Rhodey; nieces and nephews Nikki Rhodey, Randall Rhodey, Dessie Rhodey, Jessica Rhodey, Jason Rhodey, Amber Rhodey, Autumn Rhodey, Charlie Rhodey, Rebecca Robinson-Smith, Lewis Robinson and John T. Rhodey.
A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 10, at 107 Pickwick Lane, Oak Ridge.
Jones Mortuary is serving the Rhodey family.
Johnny A. Duggins
April 4, 2025
Johnny A. Duggins, 76, of Clinton passed away Friday, April 4, 2025, at the University of Tennessee Medical Center.
He was born Dec. 10, 1948, in Clinton to Millard “Tubby” Duggins Jr. and Pauline Davis Duggins. Johnny was a member of South Clinton Baptist Church and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.
A devoted family man, Johnny’s pride and joy were his grandchildren. He especially loved attending their baseball games. He also enjoyed horseback riding, motorcycles, hunting, and fishing with his son, Robert.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Nancy Duggins Henry.
He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Paulette Duggins of Clinton; daughter, Polly Duggins of Knoxville; son, Robert Allen Duggins and wife, Katrina, of Andersonville; grandchildren, Scarlett Womack, Harrison Womack, Samuel Allen Duggins, Alex Duggins and Ella Duggins; brother-in-law, William Russell and wife, Letha, of Caryville; and several nieces and nephews.
The family received friends from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at Clinton First Baptist Church. A funeral followed with Chris Thomas officiating.
Graveside services will be held at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery, with full military honors.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or Tunnel to Towers.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is in charge of arrangements.
holleygamble.com
Raymond Edward Childs
April 4, 2025
Raymond Edward Childs, 87, of Rocky Top passed away Friday, April 4, 2025, at his home.
He was born Aug. 1, 1937, in Meigs County, Tennessee, to Robert Taylor and Elizabeth Knight Childs.
Raymond was a veteran of the U.S. Army and a talented musician. He also enjoyed building, traveling and gardening.
His greatest joy was his family, especially his grandchildren. He loved the Lord and his church, Midway Baptist in LaFollette. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Robert Prentice, James Prentice and Frank Childs; and sister, Vera Pendergrass.
He is survived by his wife, Emogene Childs; daughters, Susan Worley and husband, Edward, and Teresa Ann Gothard; grandchildren, Ashlee Elizabeth Stuart, Callie Marie Gothard and Colin Joel Gothard; sister, Kathrine Myers; and several nieces, nephews and other family and friends.
The family received friends from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, April 7, 2025, at Leach Family Funeral Home and Cremation.
The funeral followed at 3 p.m. Pastor Johnny Dabney officiated. The graveside service followed at Leach Cemetery in Rocky Top with full military honors by the Campbell County Honor Guard.
leachfamilyfuneralhome.com
