Big Ridge trees species are diverse

Big Ridge State Park has a large diversity of trees. The park is around 3,600 acres in size with only a couple hundred acres at most that is mowed and not wooded.
Of course, one of the purposes of our Tennessee state parks is to preserve and protect our natural resources.
This was not always the case. Before the park was set aside for preservation it was farmland with little of it wooded.
The park was set aside for preservation by the TVA in 1936. It might be hard to picture it as farmland instead of the lush forest it is now. The occurrence in nature where the plants take over an area once utilized by humans is called succession.
Primary succession is when the plant life begins where there was none. Secondary succession is where some plants were growing but new plants grow in the place of what was already there.
Big Ridge is considered in secondary succession since grasses and crops were once growing but now many tree species are out competing with what was previously there.
The large diversity of trees is due to this secondary succession. Succession will end with what is called an old growth forest. An old growth forest in this area we live in does not consist of a large diversity of trees—it is primarily oaks and hickories.
When a forest is left natural long enough, oaks and hickories will eventually out-compete other species. Some other old growth species that are sometimes included in our area are trees like the Tulip Poplar and the American Chestnut.
For a little over 80 years Big Ridge has slowly reforested itself but it also has had a little help. While Norris Lake and the parks around it were being developed, the Civilian Conservation Corps was said to have planted over a million trees around the lake shore. The CCC was known to plant trees all across the nation to help with erosion control due to bad farming practices. This effort earned them the nickname Roosevelt’s tree army.
Most of the trees that the CCC planted in this area were pines. Even though an invasive beetle ate and killed most of those pines about 20 years ago, there are still some large pines that no doubt were planted by some of those CCC boys.
Since such a large diversity of trees now grow around the park it would be nearly impossible to list them all, but some notable species are beech, hop hornbeam, slippery elm, American elm, red maple, dogwood, redbud, American holly, ash, black walnut, sycamore, willow, bald cypress, Virginia pine, white pine, cucumber magnolia, many types of oaks, many types of hickories and the tulip poplar, which is our Tennessee state tree.
We also have some species that are restricted to higher elevations like the hemlock, umbrella magnolia, and sourwood. All the species that I have mentioned are just the common names. Common names are not as concrete as the scientific names but are the means that most of us use to refer to a specific type of tree.
Tree identification can be a fun hobby that is low impact on the environment and with all the variety, Big Ridge is a great place for such a hobby.
I hope this article helps some folks have a better appreciation for our natural resources. If you have any questions about trees, contact me, Derek Wilson, at 865-206-9459.

CCC worker planting trees.

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Union hosts Imagination Library Roundtable

Left to right: Michelle Faulkner, mandi Duddath, and Kay Hurst discuss story book trails during the Imagination Library Regional Roundtable.

Union County Imagination Library hosted the Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Regional Roundtable on Thursday, March 7, 2024 at the Luttrell Library Community Center. GELF is celebrating 20 years of promoting early literacy since its founding under Governor Phil Bredeson in 2004. Mayor Jerry Lawson of Luttrell warmly welcomed the group and shared some of the events to promote children's activities and how important Imagination Library is to Luttrell as well as his own family.

Thunder Road Printing & Graphic Design Celebrates 10 Years

greeting guests at the 10th Birthday

Marvin Jeffreys and Mitch Lester greet guests, Shannon Brooks of FirstBank and Mayor Jason Bailey, at the 10th Birthday Party.

Thunder Road Printing & Graphic Design kicked off its month long 10th birthday celebration on March , 2024 in Maynardville. Marvin Jeffreys manages the business for Mitch Lester, owner of American Business Equipment, Inc. Everyone enjoyed cake and signing up for door prizes. The door prizes will be given away on March 29.

Easter Egg Hunt in Wilson Park

Calling all Easter Egg Hunters in Union County between the ages of 1 and 10 years old!! We have it on good authority that the Easter Bunny will be visiting Wilson Park in Maynardville on Sunday March 31!! All children from anywhere in the county are invited to come help find some of these eggs! The Hunt is sponsored by the American Legion Post 212 and will start at 3:00. To make it fair, the Hunt will be divided into age groups. Kids from 1 to 3 years old will have their own group. Those 4-6 years old will hunt together and young folks 7-10 years old have their own hunt!

Strengthen the core

It’s good, of course, to keep all your muscles strong and limber. But the strength of the body’s core — the muscles in your belly and mid- and lower back — is one of the keys to long term health and stability as you grow older.

Veterans Luncheon Successful and Tasty!

Over 20 Union County Veterans enjoyed another fantastic meal at the American Legion Building at noon on March 4th! Veteran Volunteers Audry Hanken, Bob Horner, Sally Jones, and Carla Moman prepared a most delicious lasagna, garden salad, garlic rolls and a low sugar chocolate pudding with graham cracker dessert! Delicious food all prepared with gratitude and served free to any and all Union County Veterans! Are you a Veteran? Were you there? Be sure to catch the next meal crafted with love and thanks by Margo McCaffery and the Union County Veteran Volunteers!!

A Matter of Interpretation

It is an old cliché that there are two things no one can escape in this world—death and taxes. Governments throughout history have supported themselves with taxes from their citizens. The Bible references taxation in several places. Jesus was born while his earthly parents were on a journey to be counted in a census in response to a decree that all the world should be taxed. One of Jesus’ disciples was a tax collector. Zacchaeus, who climbed a sycamore tree the Lord for to see, was a tax collector.

Wrongway Feldman

As Tim drove the car back down Mine Road, I felt like Wrongway Feldman from the TV series “Gilligan’s Island.” In case you’re unfamiliar with him, he was a pilot who always flew his plane in the wrong direction. While we weren’t traveling in an airplane, we were traveling in the opposite direction from our destination.

Daffodils are the Harbingers of Spring

Daffodils blooming are a sure sign of Spring, and have a long local and world history.

Nothing says Springs-a-comin’ like seeing Daffodils spotting the countryside. They are of particular interest to me because I’m a mountain history nerd, and they often point to old cabin sites that I like to check out when I’m out exploring

Alder Springs Celebrates 175th Year

Alder Springs Missionary Baptist Church will celebrate their 175th Anniversary on Sunday April 7, 2024. The celebration will be during the 11:00 am worship service with lunch to follow. All former Pastors and past and present members are welcome.
Alder Springs Church was established March 31, 1849 by a group of people who gathered under a Pear Tree. The name Alder Springs came from a spring where an alder bush grew. This land was on the corner of Hickory Star and Little Valley Road. The alder bush was still there until some clearing was done several years ago.

Commission updated on grants, jail, 911, Rush Strong, pantry

Mayor addresses Commission

Mayor Jason Bailey reads the updated information on several grants, both active and potential, during the February Union County Commission Meeting

At the February 24 Union County Commission Meeting, Mayor Jason Bailey explained that the Healthy Built Environment Grant through the Tennessee Department of Health has increased its funding to $100,000 and can be used to build multi-purpose sports fields. These fields could increase the opportunities for recreation on property at the back of Wilson Park.

UCHS Patriot Band concerts May 2, May 18

Teena Venable graduated from the University of Tennessee in May of 1977 and moved to Maynardville that August to start a band program for the schools. She discovered that there was a lot of musical talent in Union County.
At that time, the high school band was open to all grade levels. When she was starting out, Ms. Venable had eight students who already knew how to play and a small group of beginning musicians. Those eight students proudly marched in the 1977 Homecoming Parade.

UCBPA to host 27th Prayer Breakfast

Suzanne Stelling, author of Woodbine Chronicles.

Suzanne Stelling, author of Woodbine Chronicles, will be the keynote speaker at the 27th UCBPA Prayer Breakfast.

The Union County Business & Professional Association will host its 27th Annual Prayer Breakfast on Good Friday, March 29, at First Baptist Church on Main Street.
Buttercup Bakehouse will cater a full hot breakfast of bacon, eggs, biscuits with gravy, fruits, cinnamon rolls, pastries, coffee, and juice. Pastor Corey Carroll of First Baptist will offer the warm welcome and caring invocation and Pastor Kathy Chesney of Miller's Chapel UMC and Irwin's Chapel UMC will close with the inspirational benediction.

Mayor Bailey addresses UCBPA member meeting

Mayor Jason Bailey addressed UCBPA regarding grants
and county projects.

Union County Mayor Jason Bailey addressed the Union County Business & Professional Association on February 13, at the First Bank Conference Room. He shared information on the more than $20M in active grants that his office has secured mostly in the past three years.
He also noted that his office will be applying for over $2.2M more in grants this year. Part of the grants were gifts from the federal or state government. The majority of the other grants have no local tax money needed to match the grant.

March 1 is National Pig Day

Kennedy Hill, Landon Jessee, Logan Jessee, Edward Beeler, Reed Reno, Ariona Payne, William Beeler, Jasmine Emert, and Ben Woods

Union County 4-H would like to celebrate National Pig Day with recognition for the 4-H Swine Project. Union County 4-H Swine Project wraps up the 2023-24 season with seven participants. The Swine Project consists of 4-H members who raise weaned feeder pigs to an ideal weight of 250 pounds. Swine projects provide youth with opportunities to expand their knowledge of swine production and, more importantly, develop the life skills that are needed to be positive contributors to society.

Age with grace and health

We are living longer and, if you play your cards right and have taken care of yourself, this is a wonderful thing. Good genes certainly help, but healthy lifestyle practices are just as important in continuing to live a productive life. Here are some tips the American Chiropractic Association recommends for aging with grace and health:

The first Home Demonstration Agent in Tennessee

Sealing contest at the Tennessee State Fair, 1912. Moore is on the far right.

In Tennessee, March is Extension month. I thought I would share a story about the first woman to begin the Home Demonstration clubs here in Tennessee, specifically within our university. The woman I am talking about is Virginia Pearl Moore. We are going to dive into her life and accomplishments to see what all she has done for the University of Tennessee and the Home Demonstration Clubs, now known as Family and Community Education Clubs or FCE for short.

Team Haase

Buying and selling a home should be a fun adventure! When you have real estate professionals dedicated to helping you before, during and after your transaction, anticipating bumps in the road or issues, and working to bring out best outcomes of every stage of the process, you can focus on what matters the most—whether that’s finding your next dream home, finding that amazing second home, or selling a property for top dollar.

The Journey Home

John “Coon” Miller smiled as he mounted the chestnut drawn buggy bound for his homestead on the Bull Run Creek. He was finished spending the day at his tavern on the Cumberland Gap Road. Long ago, he had had the log structure constructed for the weary travelers who came from Knoxville on their treacherous journey to the Upper Cumberlands. It was now a popular overnight lodging for passersby and a great place to catch up on the local news. Today had been a long day and he was past ready to relax for the rest of the evening.

Our springtime church reunion: The good and the bad

The song of Eddy Arnold’s “Christmas Can’t Be Far Away” reminds me that spring can’t be far away. We’ve had a rough winter with the biggest snow (which started January 14) since the blizzard of 1993.
The snowstorm of this past January left ten inches on our deck. The temps went down below zero for two nights, but we made it through, and now let’s hope we have a long spring this year.

Glad tidings

2 Corinthians 4-7 is actually a continuation of Paul’s expression of true love to the Church at Corinth. The Apostle is serving the Corinthians by sacrificing his worldly fame to tell the whole truth of the Gospel. As many commentators before me have already said the message of the Cross of Christ is a paradox. Jesus told the brothers James and John in the presence of their Mother that Greatness in Heaven is obtained via becoming a servant. Jesus ushered in his Kingdom, by becoming a servant obedient to a death of crucifixion. God’s love for the world is his good news.

Sycamore is easy to identify in winter

Sycamore is easy to identify in winter by its bleached
white upper limbs and multi-colored bark.

Sycamore (Planatus occidentalis) is a very common tree in our area and easy to find growing along streams and lakes. It is also one of the easier trees to identify in the woods because all of its identifying features stand out.
The leaves of sycamore are large, and as broad as they are long, with a big-toothed edge. The leaf also has a fuzzy underside that can be a source of respiratory irritation. The fruit forms in the fall as a cluster of seeds forming a perfect brown ball about an inch or two in diameter, hanging from a long stem and persisting into winter.

R is for Ride

It’s a good thing my mom is brave because she’s the one who taught me how to drive.
It’s funny how different my mom and I are. For instance, driving came natural to her. Before she had her driver’s license, she was driving trucks and tractors across Papaw’s farm. Sometimes when Mamaw Girdle/Myrtle wanted an ice cream, she would give my then-12-year-old mother money for one. My mom would hop on the tractor and drive up to the store and buy her ice cream.

Lemon and Honey Salmon

Salmon likes to be sweetened. Honey will do just that. Try this easy recipe. Place salmon filet on 7- x 10-inch rimmed baking pan. Drizzle olive oil over salmon. Season with salt and pepper. Place lemon slices end to end on filet. Drizzle with honey. Bake in preheated 450 F oven for 15 minutes or less. Do not overcook salmon.

About my love of animals

A girl and her donkey friends

I have mentioned in a previous article about my love for animals and listed some of the animals that I love. I thought this month I would expand on that and tell you a little more about them and why I love them. I will start with my absolute favorite animal.
My favorite animal on the planet is the bettong. Have you ever heard of this animal? I had not heard of it until I saw it on an episode of the Rachael Ray show.

The Last Hunt

By Robert Wyrick
To the best of my recollection, it was the winter of 1953 when my cousin Ralph came up from his home in Loyston to my place in Hickory Valley to spend a few days to help my daddy in his radio repair shop.
Now, as my luck would have it, Ralph brought along Old Rattler, his blue tick hunting dog. At the time, Rattler was known far and wide as the best possum dog to ever roam the hills of Union County.

Union County Public Speaking Contest

James Whitley- Front row in the middle.

The Union County 4-H Public Speaking Contest allows youths to highlight their exceptional presentation abilities in a supportive environment. Youth learn from professionals as well as their fellow 4-H members.
On February 6th, 2024, 4-H member grades 4-8 gathered at Horace Maynard Middle School for the annual County Public Speaking contest.

History of Southern Gospel, Part II

Part of the basis of Southern Gospel were traditional postbellum shape note singing schools. At that time, shape note singing was most popular among rural singers. According to James Goff, Jr in his book “Close Harmony: History of Southern Gospel”, itinerant singing school instructors organized shape singing local, regional, and even national singing conventions and local quartets sung the latest gospel hymns.

Chiropractic care and stress

Managing the stress in your life — and most of us have it to one degree or another — is essential to keeping a healthy lifestyle.

Stress comes from many directions and makes itself known in a variety of ways. It might show up as a headache, tight muscles, nausea or back pain. It’s generally caused by outside factors, some obvious, like fretting over financial problems, and others not so much, maybe even planning for a joyous occasion like an impending wedding.

Spider in the Copier

The oddest things seem to happen to me. Most of them are funny or weird, but there
was one that was downright creepy.
I used to work in an office that had a tall copier. Actually, it was a scanner, copier, and
printer. Every day, I used it many times and in all three capacities. While I was waiting on it to finish the job, I would often look out the back door since it wasn’t far from the copier.

The Angels of God

I once received an email from a friend which said, “No true Southern boy would ever say, “Here’s an episode of Hee Haw that we haven’t seen.” I’m sure that’s true, though a truly Southern boy would have said, “. . . that we ain’t seen.”
I noted that bluegrass banjo player and cast member of Hee Haw Roni Stoneman passed away this past Thursday, February 22, 2024.

Pork chop suey

We made this dish often in the 1950’s. We had just come out of WWII with all the shortages that occur during wartime. It was time to try something new, like pizza or chop suey. In Dutch oven, brown meat in hot oil. Sprinkle with 2 teaspoons salt. Drain off excess oil. Place meat in 9 by 13 inch baking pan. Combine sprouts onion, green pepper and rice. Add to pan. Gradually add milk and soy sauce to soup, stirring until smooth.

Planting Balled Trees

Taking the trouble to plant a tree right greatly improves its chances to survive and grow into a handsome tree.

Back in the day planting balled trees or trees grown in buckets was pretty straightforward: Dig a hole wider and deeper than the root ball, mix peat moss or other soil amendment with the soil and plant the tree. But some research has resulted in more stringent guidelines for urban trees. The new recommendations assure that roots have a chance to grow into the surrounding soil and produce healthy branches, foliage, and roots. Here’s an overview.

Union county veterans wall

It stands up on a hill behind the high school and overlooking Wilson Park. Many have seen it from a distance, but not too many people stop by. In different parts of the US, some of the walls honoring and remembering Veterans are made of black granite or marble. The concrete Union County Veterans Wall was first painted black to represent the bleakness, the abyss some veterans feel when returning to civilian life and there is a touch of red along the top to represent the blood that was shed during conflicts.

Menu for Veterans March 4 at High Noon

Veterans dinner

Military Veterans! You are invited to join Post Commander Darrell White and other Union County veterans at High Noon on Monday March 4 at the American Legion Hall on Veterans Rd. An Italian experience is planned with homemade Lasagna, bread, salad and dessert. Meals will be served on the first floor. There is no charge for this meal. For those who would like to attend, the monthly meeting of the American Legion New Liberty Post will be held after the luncheon at 1:00 upstairs in the building.

Take a Walk

Walking may be, pound for pound, the most accessible, beneficial and inexpensive form of exercise available. The American Chiropractic Association recommends it as a way to stay fit.

A Short History of Southern Gospel

The original Fisk Jubilee Singers introduced ‘slave songs’ to the world in 1871 and were instrumental in preserving this unique American musical tradition known today as African American spirituals.

We enjoy the precision of the close 4-part harmony and inspirational messages in Southern Gospel music. But how did this form of music come about? The oldest tradition of Christian hymns was the singing of Old Testament Psalms.

The Big BANG Theory

When I was a kid I was no stranger to guns—that is, toy guns. All kinds of toy guns—from cap pistols to plastic machine guns—but never actual BB guns. My mother was too much like Ralphie in A Christmas Story, afraid I’d shoot my eyes out!

Them Rides

Who doesn’t like having things to look forward to? As a child, birthdays and Christmases were at the top of my list. If you’re thinking it’s because of the presents, you would be correct. Next, was going to the fair. While there no gifts, there was plenty of adventure to be had.

Hawaiian chicken

Arrange chicken breast halves in crock pot. Mix together remaining ingredients and pour over chicken. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Remove chicken breasts. Serve. Note: you could thicken sauce with cornstarch and serve with the chicken breasts and mashed potatoes.

Local Rivers Were Early Interstates

Before railroads local rivers were used to transport resources like timber and iron to industrial centers to feed a growing nation.

Back in the early and mid-1800s the industrial age combined with a growing population created a high demand for raw materials to make products, especially from wood and metals such as iron and lead. Our area had metal ore deposits to produce pig iron in locally owned furnaces fueled by wood charcoal and coke. Pig iron needed to be shipped to big cities like Chattanooga where it was refined and made into metal products such as tools and farm implements.

Humor, Prayer, and Chemo

Ronnie and Carol Pratt post-cancer

Carol Pratt will tell you that these are three of the things that saved her life. Pratt’s battle with Ovarian cancer (The Silent Killer) began in March of 2018. She says the diagnosis was completely shocking and unexpected.

Union County Museum to close for flooring renovations

Union County Museum

The Union County Museum will close to install new flooring from February 19 to March 23. The March historical meeting is canceled.

After Southern Spirit performs a variety of tunes at the Union County Historical Society Meeting on Sunday, February 18, at 2:30, the Union County Museum will close until March 24, 2024,to have new flooring and carpeting installed.

Union County Veterans Volunteers

When we asked for volunteers to support the veterans, people from all over Union County raised their hands and the Union County Veterans Volunteers was formed. They held their first organizational meeting on February 5th. Everyone who attended had ideas and enthusiasm for helping and volunteering. The first item of business was to organize free tasty meals for the American Legion Post 212 before their monthly meetings on the first Monday of every month. Volunteer cooks have already signed up to do this for every month up to and including the July meeting!

Chiropractic Care For Pain Relief — Harvard Health

Spinal manipulation is a primary therapy, but the number of treatment options is expanding.

Chiropractic is a system of therapy focused on the structure of the body, particularly the spine. Chiropractors manipulate the body’s alignment to relieve pain and improve function and to help the body heal itself.

To the Letter

A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches,
and loving favour rather than silver and gold. (Proverbs 22:1 KJV)
My inspiration for this article came from a visit I made earlier today to Union County High School. There I began talking with office staff about mistakes that are made with respect to people’s names.
An article of mail had arrived for band instructor Hunter Collins. The package was not addressed to “Hunter”, but to “Hunger”.

No More Kittens

I grew up on my Papaw E.O.’s farm. There were two things he and Mamaw Jo always had: a black snake and cats. Papaw kept a black snake in the barn to eat the rats and chase away other snakes. While Mamaw wanted the cats to kill the mice around their house, she also liked them.

Invasion of the stink bugs

Yes, we had stink bugs last summer and fall. Seems as though many people did. We were also visited by Asian beetles. Both seem to appear out of nowhere. Doors and windows were closed most of the time. All cracks are sealed. How they got in was a mystery.

Events

Authors Guild of Tennessee

The Authors Guild of Tennessee (AGT) will hold its monthly meeting on Thursday, October 5, 2023 at 11:00 am at the Faith Lutheran Church in Farragut. Social time and book exchange begins at 10:30. Published authors are invited to attend. AGT is now accepting applications for associate membership from authors who have written a book but are not yet published. Serious authors only. In the event of inclement weather, check the AGT Website for updates and information: authorsguildoftn.org.

Spring Tour With Museum Mike!

"Come by the Lenoir Museum at 1:00pm on Saturday's throughout the spring for a tour with Museum Mike! These tours will occur on a weekly basis. These tours are completely free, but please consider registering and donating to the Museum! 100% of your donation stays in our Lenoir Museum and is used for programs, interpretive displays, and other improvements. Thank you for your ongoing support!

Lost Creek Reunion is June 9

Lost Creek Church

Anyone with ancestors who attended Lost Creek Church or have ancestors buried in Lost Creek Cemetery may want to mark June 9, 2024, on the calendar. Fred Gibson and members of the Union County Cemetery Association will hold a reunion at the new Union County Forestry Building at the entrance to Chuck Swan Wildlife Management Area.

Alder Springs Anniversary

Alder Springs Missionary Baptist Church

Alder Springs Missionary Baptist Church, 708 Hickory Star Rd. Maynardville TN, will celebrate it's 175 the Anniversary on Sunday, April 7,2024. The celebration will be during the 11:00 an worship service with lunch to follow. If you know of any former pastors or their relatives, we would love to hear from them so we can give them a special invitation for that celebration.

Obituary

Carolyn Skeen

Carolyn Grace Skeen – age 88 of Corryton, passed away peacefully at NHC Farragut Memory Care on Thursday, March 14, 2024. She was very artistic and loved to draw and work crossword puzzles. Carolyn retired from St. Paul Ins. Co. after working there for many years as a Claims Adjuster Supervisor. She was also a member of Beaver Dam Baptist Church in Halls.

Lisa Gilbert

Lisa Gilbert-age 59 of Sharps Chapel, the best mom in the world, went to be with the Lord Monday, March 11, 2024, at North Knoxville Medical Center. She is preceded in death by her parents, Roy “Thumby” and Willie (White) Brantley; brothers, Troy and Claudia (Rowe) Brantley, Willis “Buzz” and Susie (Chumley) Brantley, David and Carolyn (Chumley) Brantley, Norman Brantley, Charlie Brantley, Arnold Brantley, Darrell Brantley all of Sharps Chapel.

Joshua Walker

Joshua Walker – age 44 of Maynardville, was called to his heavenly home on March 8th in the year of our Lord 2024. He loved his family and he enjoyed cooking for them and his friends. Josh was a gifted musician and left an unforgettable impact on everyone he met. He will be dearly missed and we will forever be grateful for the time that we were blessed to share with him.

Paul Junior Muncey

Paul Junior Muncey-age 65 of Luttrell went to be with the Lord Saturday, March 9, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family and friends after a three-year battle with cancer. He was of the Baptist faith. Worked as the maintenance man at the Cedars Apartments and Stonegate Apartments. Preceded in death by his step-son, Tony Wood; parents, Martin and Gertrude (Pratt) Muncey; siblings, Jimmy, Clifford and Sharon Muncey; Edna (Sissy) Strevel.

Delbert Turner

Delbert Turner, (77), of New Tazewell, Tennessee, went home to be with the Lord on March 7th, 2024. Delbert was born to Wiley and Louetta Turner, on August 19, 1946, in Middlesboro, Kentucky.

Dewey McCall Raley

Dewey McCall Raley-age 91 of Corryton passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, when his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ called him home with his loving family by his side. He was born September 27, 1932, in Central Peninsula, Union County Tn. He was a devoted member and deacon of Hubbs Grove Baptist Church. He was a devoted and loving husband to Bobby Helen (Wyrick) Raley for 50 yrs until her passing in 2003. He was a devoted and loving father to his four children Darrell, Debbie, Daniel, and Don.

Natasha Hope Snelson

Natasha Hope Snelson-38 of Maynardville passed away suddenly at her home Wednesday, March 6, 2024. She was her own unique person. Preceded in death by her mother, Ruth Snelson; brothers, Rick Snelson, Mike Snelson, Tommy Snelson; biological father, Lee Bussell; biological brother, Brian Bussell.

Kevin Brown

S. Kevin Brown – born June 17, 1967 in Knoxville, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 3, 2024 at the age of 56. He loved hunting, fishing and being outside and he was so passionate about his work as a brick mason.

Fredda McHaffie

Fredda “Hippie” Lynn McHaffie – age 60 0f Maynardville, passed away March 4, 2024 surrounded by her family. She was of the Baptist faith. Fredda loved life and was a very caring and generous person that would give you the shirt off her back. She never met a stranger and once she set her mind to do something she did it.

Lawrence Henry "LH" Wolfenbarger

Lawrence Henry “LH” Wolfenbarger-72 of Luttrell went to be with the Lord Sunday, March 3, 2024, at the U.T. Medical Center. He was a member of Cedar Ford Baptist Church. Preceded in death by his parents, John Henry and Agnes Marie (Grisby) Wolfenbarger; great great granddaughter, Lanie Grace.

He is survived by his children, Melinda and Mike Grace, Dwight Wolfenbarger, John and Daphne Wolfenbarger; sister, Johnnie Sharp; nephew, Wesley Sharp and many cousins, grandchildren, great grandchildren and a host of friends.

Johnny Aurther Chadwick

Johnny Aurther Chadwick – age 80 of Luttrell, went to be with the Lord Sunday, March 3, 2024. Johnny was a diesel mechanic and loved to fish and drive racecars. Preceded in death by his loving wife of 55 years, Brenda Joyce Chadwick; parents, Charlie and Mary Chadwick; sons, Ray Shanks and John (L.J.) Chadwick; brothers, Larry Chadwick, Chuck Chadwick and Ronnie Chadwick.

Jamie Earl Shoffner

Jamie Earl Shoffner-47 of New Tazewell went home to be one of God’s angels after being one on earth for 47 years, Thursday, February 29, 2024 at North Knoxville Medical Center. He graduated from Horace Maynard High School Class of 1998. He attended Beulah Missionary Baptist Church. Preceded in death by his loving step-father, Jerry Lee Cole; aunts and uncles, Louise Bonnie Bailey, Inez Ellen Poore, Troy Yadon, Sr., Glen Yadon, Sr., Tom Shoffner, Steve Shoffner, Wanda Shoffner Sheckles; grandparents, Roy and Belvia Yadon, Charlie and Edna Shoffner.

Dennis Wayne Kitts

Dennis Wayne Kitts-45 of Maynardville went to be with the Lord Thursday, February 29, 2024, at UT Medical Center, after a brief illness. He was saved at a young age. Preceded in death by his mother, Sharon Kitts Berkley; grandparents, Ted and Welmia Kitts, Donald and Thelma Beeler; aunts, Mary Kitts, Sandra Thomas; mother of his son, Sara Kitts.

Kennith Ronald Gibson

Kennith Ronald Gibson-45 of Tazewell, born May 16, 1978 passed away February 28, 2024. He was of the Baptist faith and a member of Union Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. Preceded in death by his father, Kennith William Gibson; sister, Renosia Jane Noah; grandparents, William and Katherine Gibson, Curtis and Pansy Chumley; good friends, Steve Moore and Joe Burkhart.

He is survived by his mother, Diane Gibson; daughter, Lakota Gibson; son, Skylar Bishop; very special niece, Allison Noah and her father Allen Noah and other loving family members and friends.

Janice Jones

Janice Lynn (Buckner) Jones – age 80 of Maynardville, passed away peacefully and went to be with Jesus, Wednesday, February 28, 2024. She was a member of Cedar Grove Baptist Church and was a volunteer at Tennova North Hospital and for the Union County Election Commission. Janice loved the lake, ocean and RV’ing. Most of all she loved her husband, Rick, her children and grandchildren and spending time with them.

Michael Wayne Bullen

Michael Wayne Bullen – age 69 of Corryton went to be with the Lord, Sunday, February 25, 2024 at U.T. Medical Center. He was a member and deacon of Union Missionary Baptist Church. Retired employee of Y-12 Oak Ridge. He was the best husband, dad, papaw/paw, brother, uncle and all-around great guy who was loved by many but loved others even more.
Preceded in death by his parents, Junior and Mildred (Marsee) Bullen.

Cheryl Jo Cooper

Cheryl Jo Cooper – age 42 of Knoxville, passed away suddenly Friday, February 23, 2024.
Preceded in death be her father, Pete Davis; brother, Charles “Chuck” Davis.
Survived by her son, Hunter Cooper; daughters Kylie Cooper, Karlie Cooper; mother, Betty Davis.
There are no services planned at this time. Arrangements by Cooke-Campbell Mortuary in Maynardville.

Anthony "Tony" Frank Gilliam

Anthony “Tony” Gilliam-age 58 of Rutledge passed away Sunday evening, February 25, 2024 at his home. Preceded in death by his parents, Lonnie and Sue (Stapleton) Gilliam; sister, Sara Gilliam.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Sandra McCarter; sons, Alex Gilliam, Connor Gilliam; grandchildren, Jaxon, Aliah, Korbin, Kason and other loving family members and friends.

No services are planned at this time. Arrangements by Cooke-Campbell Mortuary, Maynardville.

Danny Leon Collins

Danny Leon Collins-71 of Washburn passed away Saturday, February 24, 2024 at UT Medical Center. He was a member of Emory Road Baptist Church. He is preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Zola Collins; brothers, Don, Delmar, Ronnie, Lonnie, and James; sisters, Marine, Onalee, Doris, Dora, Pauline, Brenda, and Mary.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Dorothy Collins; sons, Rev. Danny (Cindy) Collins of Washburn, Eugene McIntosh of Knoxville; daughter, Shirley (Stephen) Owens of Hixson; grandson, Jacob Collins and several nieces and nephews.

Mildred Lou Ryder, Andersonville, Tn

Ryder, Mildred Lou, age 88 of Andersonville, went to be with the Lord on February 23, 2024 at Tennova North. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She also loved to hand sew quilts. She was preceded in death by her parents, Oda & Gertie Ridenour Pike and her loving husband, Kenneth and 9 brothers and sisters. She is survived by her sons, Robin (Rhonda) Ryder, Kelvin (Debbie) Ryder and Rusty (Kelly) Ryder and her daughter Della (Scott) Heath. 9 Grand Children, 6 Great Grand Children and 2 Great Great Grand Children.

Gregory "Moon" Clifton Hunter

Gregory “Moon” Hunter – age 40 of Luttrell, passed away Saturday, February 24, 2024 at his home. Moon was a great friend and loved his family. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, chickens, fast cars, hunting ginseng, and just taking relaxing drives. He was loved by many and will forever be in our hearts. Preceded in death by his daughter, Kourtney Hunter; sister, Mesha Young; father, Rickey Hunter.

Janice Faye Beason

Janice (Lay) Beason-age 60 of Sharps Chapel passed away peacefully Saturday afternoon, February 24, 2024 at her home. She was a loyal, faithful member of Oak Grove Primitive Baptist Church. Janice is preceded in death by her father, Sandy Lay.

Donald James D.J. Corum

Donald James “D.J.” Corum-age 45 of Luttrell went home to be with the Lord Thursday, February 22, 2024 at his home. D. J. loved his family and was very proud of his kids. Preceded in death by son, Dayton Corum; father-in-law: Bo Inklebarger; grandparents, Gene and Inez Hensley; grandmother, Naomi Corum.
Survivors: loving wife of 20 years, Comfort Corum; daughters, Aleigha Corum, Abby Corum; parents, Perry and Karen Corum; sister, Shonda Corum; brothers, Joshua Corum; Rev. Daniel Corum and wife, Lisa. Many nieces and nephews along with a host of friends.

Nicholas Trammell

Nicholas Tyler Trammell – age 25 of Powell, passed away February 18, 2024 in St. Paul. Minnesota. While Nick faced many difficult challenges, he never stopped being an audacious dreamer. His imagination and giddy laugh are the qualities most will recall.

James Herbert Bays

James Herbert Bays-86 of Maynardville went to be with the Lord Monday morning, February 19, 2024, at his home. He was of the Church of God faith. He enjoyed his long-time career as an over the road truck driver and had been to Canada, Mexico and every state except for Alaska. Preceded in death by his parents, Hayden and Lindy Bays; wives, Linda Darlene Bays and Bonnie Bays; children, Kathy Bays, Herbie Bays, Jerry Childress, David Childress, Angie Pollard; grandchildren, Misty Childress, Alex Childress, Kelley Childress, Josh Hunley; sisters, Maggie, Anne, Reba; brother, Esco Bays.

Herbert Clinton Fields

Herbert Clinton Fields-age 64 of Dalton, Georgia went to be with the Lord Saturday, February 17, 2024 at home while under the care of his daughter. He is preceded in death by wife, Rita Joyce (Redwine) Fields; parents, Eli Fields and Katie Juanita (Goforth) Fields; son, Scott Flowers; sisters, Tiny Ruth Pullen and husband, Mike; Virginia Allen Hughes and husband, B.J. Herbert loved hunting and fishing. He will be laid to rest with his loving wife by his side.

Loetta Galyon

Loetta Marie Galyon – age 58 of Maynardville, passed away peacefully February 15, 2024. Loetta is of the Pentecostal faith.

She is preceded in death by parents, James and Ruth Ellis; nephew, Anthony Goins and father-in-law, Robert Galyon. Loetta is survived by husband, Jeff Galyon; children, Leighann (Curtis) Cash, son, Nick Galyon; grandchildren, BriAnn, Amorett and Aminah; sister, Linda Fox; and many extended family members too numerous to mention.

Hoke Mynatt, Jr.

Hoke Lee “Porky” Mynatt, Jr. – age 78 of Knoxville, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2024 surrounded by his family. He was born October 18, 1945 to Attorney Hoke Lee Mynatt, Sr. and Grace Delana Barnett Mynatt. Hoke graduated from Houston Independent School district. In 1972 he graduated from Davidson Police Academy and went to work for the Knox County Sheriff’s Department. Hoke left the department in 1985. Upon moving to Houston, TX that same year he eventually went to work for Wackenhut Security Company where he worked in several positions including as a U. S.

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