CARL REECE KESTERSON
March 7, 2022
Carl Reece Kesterson, born Sept, 10, 1934, in Clinton, was called home Monday March 7, 2022, at home while surrounded by loved ones.
Carl was preceded in death by: Parents, Hubert and Acie Kesterson; beloved son, Billy Kesterson; beloved grandson, Weston Mitchell; two sisters, Dorothea and Lougene Kesterson; two brothers, Curtis and Melvin Kesterson.
He is survived by: The love of his life, Nola Juanita Kesterson; children, Bobby and Danielle Kesterson, Resa Kesterson, Deborah Richard and Amy Krause, Karri and Eugene Mckamey, Angela and Dennis Pemberton; three step children; grandchildren, Traci and Ron Meredith, Lauren and Jason Webber, Joseph and Mandy Richard, Miranda Stout, and Tyler Dishman; great-grandchildren, Michaela, Kaden and Briley Webber, Brandon Stout, Leighton Mckamey, Destini Morgan, Demi Moore, Ryan, Kasen, and Camden Richard; great-great-grandchildren, Taylor Mitchell, Tyson and Dawson Stout, and Dylanie Traverse.
A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March, 12, 2022, at Clinton First Wesleyan Church.
Jones Mortuary of Clinton is in charge of all arrangements.
BARBARA MAE WALLACE BORDER
March 7, 2022
Barbara Mae Wallace Border was born Feb. 23, 1932, in Briceville, passed from this life at the age of 90 Monday, March 7, 2022, at her home.
She was the daughter of Mirma Miller (M.M.) Wallace and Myrtle Mae Foust Wallace.
Mrs. Border was preceded in death by: Husband, Paul Brent Border Sr.; both of her paternal and maternal grandparents, Doc Alexander Wallace and Martha Weaver Wallace and James and Laura Foust; parents, M.M. and Myrtle Wallace; sisters, Anna Lou Schuster and Dorothy Beck; five brothers, Ray Wallace, Joe Wallace, Jim Wallace, Reece Wallace and Bill Wallace; and grandson, Wally Lowery.
She is survived by: Five children, Jane Border Gossett of Athens, Ala., Paul Brent Border Jr. (Kim) of Scottsboro, Ala., Daniel M. Border (Cindy) of Andersonville, Mary Border Grady (Stewart) of Knoxville, and Amy Border Atkins (Rodney) of Arab, Ala.; 16 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Mary Wallace Thomas of Knoxville, and Jane Wallace Lowery of Andersonville.
Mrs. Border was the loving wife of Paul for 69 years until his death in September, 2021. She was designed by God to be an amazing wife, mother and grandmother. She devoted her life to her five children as the best full-time stay-at-home mom. She was a Christian and attended church her entire life and loved her church family. She cared deeply for her family and went out of her way to do any and everything for them. Her selfless, compassionate manner was a blessing to all who knew her. She was prissy, fun, sassy and full of life. Even after dementia took her mind, she never lost those qualities and continued to exude love. She was very musically inclined and could play any song on the piano by ear. She had a beautiful voice and loved to sing, including singing in her high school choir as well as with her husband and children. She filled the home with continuous singing, dancing and laughter. She was an amazing, loving Godly woman who led her family by her example of what a wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother should be. She was always smiling and friendly to everyone she met and her happiness spilled over to all she came in contact with. She will be missed terribly by her family but what a blessing it is to know she is now with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ whom she spent her entire life preparing to meet as well as reunited with her devoted husband, the love of her life. The wonderful legacy she leaves for her children and grandchildren will be shared for many generations to come. No words could describe the love we have for our sweet, sweet Momma!!!
The family received friends from 5 – 7 p.m.. (CST) at Scottsboro Funeral Home in Scottsboro, Ala., Thursday, March 10, 2022.
Her loving husband, Paul, was cremated and his ashes were buried with her.
A graveside service will be held for both of them in Andersonville at 1 p.m. Friday, March 11, 2022.
Arrangements Entrusted to Scottsboro Funeral Home.
THELMA CHRISTINE (CHRIS) JOHNSON
March 6, 2022
Thelma Christine (Chris) Johnson, 80, passed away March 6, 2022 surrounded by loved ones.
She was born in a coal mining camp in Fonde, Ky., in 1941. She devoted her life to the service of others, working in urban renewal in Middlesboro, Ky., and later serving as the city manager of Norris. She later founded and ran a successful real estate business in Norris, helping people make their home in the town she loved. In work and in life, her empathy for others shone brightly. Chris’ heart was always open for those in need. Facing hardship in her own life had not hardened her; she was a well of empathy for those facing their own struggles, whether she knew them or not.
Our mother had a deep and sustaining love of Jesus Christ. Her life was illuminated by her love of her family and friends. Her love and guidance heavily shaped the lives of her children and grandchildren. That love extended to those lucky enough to know her as a friend or those who have been taken in by her as a surrogate parent. Love in Chris’ house often meant that your favorite dessert or meal would be waiting for you if you came to visit, made with few recipes actually written down. All this heart and love was punctuated by a great wit and sharp sense of humor.
Her compassionate heart for animals meant she was always on the lookout for a rescue Shih Tzu that needed a good home — any dog rescued by Chris had won the dog lottery.
For the whole season, but particularly in March, you could find Chris cheering for Kentucky basketball, in good years and bad. She was a longtime member of Norris First Baptist Church and later attended First Baptist Concord. A member of the church choir, she had a beautiful voice; you would always catch her humming a hymn around the house. She was a voracious reader of mysteries and watcher of news, and she would always be ahead of you on the latest current events.
She made all our lives better and brighter. She is already missed greatly, but we know she is now resting in the grace of her Savior.
Chris was preceded in death by: Mother, Evelyn Longsworth; and sister, Gladys Saylor.
She is survived by: Husband, Herbie Johnson; and her children, Angela and Gordon Williams of Norris, Herbie Johnson III of Chattanooga, Traci Ingram of Powell; adopted son, David Peters of Nashville; daughter-in-law, Mallorie Johnson Rector of Cookeville.
She leaves behind grandchildren, Tristan and Tiffany Johnson, Schyler and Dr. Haley Johnson, Elizabeth Williams and Joseph Carpenter, Brogan and Josh Boles, Alex and Rebecca Ingram.
Also survived by great-grandchildren, Taryn Johnson, Knox Boles, Finn Johnson, Liza Boles, and Baby Ingram, due July 2022.
Thelma’s graveside service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, March 11, 2022, at Norris Memorial Garden, with Dr. Joel Dew officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to Second Harvest Food Bank or Mission of Hope, charities both close to Chris’ heart.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is in charge of all arrangements.
holleygamble.com
MARLA LENIHAN
March 6, 2022
I am fortunate to have had time to share some of my own thoughts in this obituary as opposed to others writing their thoughts about my life. I was born April 5, 1951, in Kankakee, Ill., the second of three children. I lived in Illinois until high school and spent most of my adolescent years in the South, particularly in Tennessee. I met my husband, Dr. Bill Lenihan, while in graduate school at the University of Tennessee. Our adventures began as he was off to dental school and I was launching my career as a mental health therapist. We married in Oak Ridge, March 30, 1974. Bill finished dental school and joined the Air Force, which enabled him to pursue an advanced degree in prosthodontics. As we moved around with our two children, Brennan and Meighan, I always managed to find positions in teaching psychology at the college level or working for social service agencies as a therapist. I truly enjoyed both, but always wanted to establish my own private practice. When we settled in Oak Ridge after getting out of the Air Force, I was working as a supervisor and therapist at Catholic Charities (an agency in which I worked in several locations while being stationed in various states while Bill was in the Air Force). I eventually transitioned from agency work to establishing my private practice in Oak Ridge in 1995. I still maintained close ties, however, with Catholic Charities in doing various presentations and volunteer work in the Diocese. I was appointed the Victims’ Assistance Coordinator for the Diocese more than 20 years ago, and have held that volunteer position ever since. It has been my privilege to have worked so closely with the church all these years and to have had the opportunity to get to know many of the priests and deacons personally. Bill and I maintain affiliations with both St. Mary’s in Oak Ridge, St. Albert’s in Knoxville, and St. John Neumann Catholic School in Knoxville.
In addition to teaching, private practice and my work with the church, I have also participated in volunteer activities as well as several board positions. I served on the University of Tennessee Advisory Board for Counselor Education, as well as supervising students working toward licensure. I was on the Contact Care Board and was an elected member of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Members First Federal Credit Union.
I held director positions (local and regional) for all the social service agencies with whom I was affiliated. My teaching positions included appointments in Florida, Texas, Delaware and Tennessee.
I also maintained active memberships in the American Mental Health Counseling Association, the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapists, the American Counseling Association, and the Tennessee Licensed Professional Counseling Association. I was a member of Altrusa International for 29 years and a graduate of Leadership Oak Ridge.
Something very important to me was my relationship with my clients. I truly LOVED my work, and was honored to be allowed into the lives of so many incredible and courageous people. I’ve told people for years that I hope I would be remembered as someone who truly tried to make a difference — personally and professionally.
Please feel free to share any stories on how our lives may have intersected over the years. If I have connected with you in any particular way that you care to share, please email any thoughts, stories or observations to mvlenihan@gmail.com. I’m sure the immediate family I am leaving behind would love to hear from you and find your words comforting, and I would appreciate it.
I leave behind: My husband, Dr. Bill Lenihan; my son, Brennan Lenihan; daughter-in-law, Michelle Jones; daughter, Meighan Lenihan Vargas; and my two very special granddaughters, Eile Lenihan and Valentina Vargas.
I am truly blessed to have had 70 wonderful and healthy years. I have lived a good life, and a wonderful 70 years filled with health, love, purpose and joy.
I have always told people over the years that when I die I’m hoping I’m remembered for, “She tried to make a difference when she was here.” (I just didn’t think it would be this soon).
In lieu of flowers, any donations to St. Mary’s in Oak Ridge, St. Albert the Great in Knoxville, St. John Neumann Catholic School in Knoxville, or the American Cancer Society would be appreciated.
Receiving of friends will be at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Oak Ridge from 6–8 p.m. Friday, March 11, 2022, followed by a funeral mass at 8 p.m.
JACQUELINE 'JACKIE' HILL
March 4, 2022
Jacqueline “Jackie” Hill, 66, Claxton, passed away Friday, March 4, 2022, at Tennova Turkey Creek Medical Center.
Jacqueline was born Feb. 23, 1956, to her mother, Ethel Gallaher, and her father, James Hill, in Clinton. She was raised in the Claxton Community and graduated from Clinton High School in 1974. Jackie was employed at ORNL, K-25, and Y-12 for more than 34 years. She enjoyed playing softball, watching televised baseball games, fishing, and planting flowers in her yard.
She was preceded in death by: Her parents; brothers, Eugene, Arthur, and Ronnie Gallaher; sisters, Anna Lee Griffin and Glenna Hill.
Jackie leaves behind: The love of her life, son Gregory (Jeanne) Hill of Oliver Springs; grandchildren, Chaz (Ada), Creg, Cory (Casie) Waddell, Darius Hill, and James “Boo” Griffin; great-grandchildren, Chance, Cashton, Able, Camdon, Amos and Eleanor Waddell, Jocelyn Hill, and Jamison Griffin; sisters, Georgia Lee Reed and Willie Mae (Leonard) Butler; brother, James (Tawana) Hill; sister-in-law, Mattie Gallaher; special friends, Loretta Jones, Bob Underwood, Ernest and Barbara Steelman; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and multiple friends.
The family will receive friends at 1 p.m., followed by a Homegoing Service at 2 p.m., Thursday, March 10, 2022, at Haven Chapel United Methodist Church, 220 Raccoon Valley Road, Powell. Pastor Denard Bertram of Harriman will be in charge of the funeral service.
To share your thoughts and condolences please go to www.woodhavenfh.com.
Woodhaven Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens are honored to serve the Jacqueline Hill Family.
JACQUELINE LANE
March 4, 2022
Jacqueline Lane, 76, Clinton, entered her heavenly home March 4, 2022.
Born April 10, 1945, Jackie was a lifetime resident of Clinton and worked as a teacher’s aide in the Clinton City School System. Jackie enjoyed playing the piano, working in her vegetable garden, and listening to Dolly Parton. She was passionate about all of God’s creatures, but especially loved dogs and was known to keep a stash of treats for any animals that might stop by to visit. Jackie had unconditional love for her family and friends. She was always just a phone call away to lend a listening ear.
Jackie was preceded in death by: Husband, Jerry Lee Lane; parents, Jack and Marie Wills; sister, Dorothy Wills; brother, Raymond Wills; brother, Johnny Wills.
She leaves behind: Son Jerry Robert Lane (Virginia); and daughter, Amy Courtney (Richard); grandchildren, Alexandra Sands (Kevin), and Jerry Robert Lane II; great-grandchildren, Dylan, Lincoln, and Lisa; special sister-in-law, Bonnie Wills.
A receiving of friends will be held from 5 – 7 p.m. Friday, March 11, 2022, at Holley Gamble funeral home in Clinton.
The family will have a private service at a later date.
In lieu of flowers those wanting to honor Jackie are asked to donate to their local animal shelter.
Holley Gamble Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.
www.holleygamble.com
ROY E. BIDDLE
March 4, 2022
There’s a lot of life that can be lived in nearly 92 years and Roy Edward Biddle made the most of every moment. Often regarded as “the happiest man you’ll ever meet,” Roy never knew a stranger.
Roy grew up in Sevierville. He fondly recalled those days and was honored to be captain of his high school football team and unanimously named “Mr. Senior” by his teachers. Roy was a proud Army veteran who served in the Korean War. His patriotism remained strong throughout his life. He married Margaret Catlett Dec. 11, 1954. They had three sons and spent 68 years together. They have three grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and a great-great-grandchild.
Roy was a dedicated worker for the Bell South Telephone Company for 41 years.
Roy enjoyed serving as an usher at University of Tennessee football and basketball games. He competed in the Senior Olympics and earned medals in swimming and running events. Roy always embraced his age and felt blessed for his good health and good life.
He was preceded in death by: Beloved mother and baker of famed chocolate pies, Reta; brothers, Everett and J.L.; sister, Mary Lee; and son, Gregory.
He is survived and lovingly remembered by: Wife, Margaret; son, Anthony; daughter-in-law, Christie; granddaughter, Brynn; son, Bradley; and brother, Kenneth.
FRANCES ANN RUTHERFORD
March 4, 2022
Frances Ann Rutherford, 48, passed away at Tennova Medical Center in Lafollette, Friday, March 4, 2022.
Frances loved her sons, Isaac and Jacob, very much. In her free time, she enjoyed sewing, cooking, gardening, butterflies, and she loved animals. She was a kind soul who would help anyone.
She was preceded in death by her father, Tommy Phillips.
Frances is survived by: Mother, Brenda Phillips; sons, Isaac Shrader of Rocky Top, and Jacob Rutherford; dear friend, Tim Morris; brothers, Ray Phillips (Missy) of Rocky Top, Carlos Phillips (Beverly) of Rocky Top, Thomas Phillips of Caryville; sisters, Mary Phillips of Caryville, Rosie Parsons (David Roy) of Oak Ridge, Oma Seiber (Anthony) of Clinton, Martha Maples (Toby) of Clinton, Brenda Marie of Caryville.
There are no memorial services for Frances at this time.
Jones Mortuary, LLC. of Clinton is in charge of arrangements.
