Robin Denise O’Neal Coles

Robin Denise O’Neal Coles, 60, passed away at home on October 29, 2021.

She is preceded in death by her father, Fred Dawson O’Neal, mother, Johnnie Edwina O’Neal, and sister Jessie Darlene Able.

She is survived by her husband, Bob Coles; daughters, Shevy O’Neal and Shelby Stanfield; sons: Adam Sherwood, Charles (Valerie) Coles and Steven Coles, sisters: Donna (R.L.) Bradburn, Jennifer (Danny) Patty, brothers: Timothy O’Neal and Dennis O’Neal, nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at Cloyds Creek Chapel Cemetery in Greenback, TN, on Saturday

November 6, 2021, at 2 pm. Brian Davis will be officiating the service.

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Khristopher Robert Burk

Khristopher Robert Burk, 27, passed suddenly on October 9, 2021. Khris was born February 4, 1994, in Detroit, Michigan, and moved to Maryville, Tennessee, in 2006. He graduated from William Blount High School in 2012, where he played football and was on the wrestling team. Khris was always making people smile and made friends wherever he went. Even though he left this earth too soon he will always live on and be remembered by his mother Rosland Burk, his siblings Heather (Joseph) Smith, Holly Burk, Kasey (Ricardo) Vargas, his daughter Addison Maxiene, son Nolan Thomas, cherished aunts, uncles, several cousins and many other family members and friends. We know he is at peace with his father, William “Bob” Burk, and grandparents William “Bill” and Addie “Maxine” Burk, and will always be loved here by many on earth as well as in heaven. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, December 4, 2021, from 4 pm-7 pm at Ross Springs Clubhouse, 307 Ross Springs Dr, Maryville, TN 37803.

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Mary Lynn Rogers Hankins

Mary Lynn Rogers Hankins, age 73, of Knoxville, passed away on Thursday, November 4, 2021. She was a member of Beaver Creek Church of the Brethren. Mary was a loving mother, daughter, grandmother, sister, and girlfriend. 

Preceded in death by father, Jesse Rogers; husband, Jesse Coffey Sr; son, Jesse Coffey Jr; daughter, Marsha Hankins Thompson.

Mary will be missed by mother, Ruth Rogers; boyfriend, Larry Hawkins; siblings, Jesse and Connie Rogers; Don and Carolyn Rogers; Steve Rogers; Linda and Albert Bailey Jr; Ginger and Jeff Miller Sr; Daughter in law, Renee and Mike Adams; Grand-kids, Brandon Coffey and fiance, Tiara Kendall; Brent Coffey; Jessica and Edward Switzer; Jennifer and Demetrius Bowman; Janice Lyon; James Lyon; Taylor Thompson and fiance Jacob Taylor; Jamie Thompson and fiance, Corey Davidson; Katie Thompson; Jesse Thompson; and many great grandchildren.

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Patricia Kathleen Clark

Patricia Kathleen Clark, 57, passed away on November 9, 2021. Born March 17, 1964, Patricia was a lifelong resident of Columbus, OH, before recently retiring to Maryville, TN with her husband, Rich. She had 28 years with the Columbus Division of Police and was also a graduate of the National Forensic Academy in Oak Ridge, TN. Patricia was an avid traveler, motorcycle enthusiast, animal lover, and great friend to many.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William R. and Rachel A Dailey. Survivors include her loving husband, Rich Clark of Maryville, TN; daughter, Amanda Warchol of Columbus, OH; siblings, Marie C. Blakemore of Nashville, TN, and Robert M. Dailey of Columbus, OH.

There will be no services held at this time.

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William Michael O’Donnell

William Michael O’Donnell “Buffalo,” born November 17, 1962, passed away suddenly on November 1, 2021. He was a painter who took pride in his work and loved what he did. He had a heart of gold and would do anything he could to help others. Buffalo leaves behind his beloved kids, grandkids, great-grands, relatives, and many friends who loved him dearly. The family will have a celebration of life to be announced at a later date.

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Denise Massengill

Denise Massengill, 60, died peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family. Denise enjoyed life to the fullest and spent time with her family and many friends. Denise was always there to brighten the lives of others, but as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again. 

Denise will be lovingly remembered by her longtime significant other, Larry; children, Brittany Sluder, Bill Sluder and Jason Sluder; grandchildren, Alyssa, Josh, Garrett, Jaylin, Lil Ronnie, CJ, Kylie, Cylus, Autumn and Dakota; mom, Doris Nelson; nieces, Meagan Pierce and Alexis Clem; siblings, Teresa Biggs and kids, Lonnie Reed and kids, and Michelle Chesney; and many special cousins.

Whisper I Love You to a butterfly, and it will fly to heaven to deliver your message.

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Gerald Stillwell

Gerald Stillwell, 54, went home to be with the Lord on November 27, 2021. His passing was sudden and devastating to his family. Gerald was a friend to everyone; he never met a stranger and always made everyone feel welcome. Gerald and his wife, Missy, were inseparable best friends in life and built a loving family out of that friendship. Gerald took great pride in his family and loved each of his children and grandchildren. He loved to talk about how he was blessed to have 11 grandchildren to love on.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Web and Joyce Stillwell; sister, Alisa Stillwell; and brother, Oscar Stillwell.

He is survived by his wife: Missy Stillwell; Children: Mistie Stillwell, Dustin(Emily) Stillwell, Amanda(Will) Stewart, Sherry(Tim) Jones; 11 grandchildren: Mason, Kylie, Bella, Carter, Alan, Carson, Caleb, Shania, Arianna, Kaelyn, and Timmy; siblings: Herbert, Tie, Jewel, Floyd, and Avery; along with many in-laws, nieces and nephews.

Gerald’s celebration of life will be held on Saturday, December 4th, at 2 p.m. in Freedom to Worship Church, 2013 Old Knoxville Pike, Maryville, TN 37804.

Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely, goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

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Melissa L. Hensley

Melissa L. (Mahan) Hensley, 51 years old, of Knoxville, TN, passed away on November 26, 2021, following a brief illness. Melissa passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by her children and family.

Melissa was born on June 20, 1970, to Steven and Delores Mahan in Bremerton, Washington. Melissa attended Karns High School, where her lifelong relationships began with Missi Pickens Hibbert, Shannon Ritter Ware, Stephanie Mantooth Sims, and Dawn Flatford Carden, who have remained loyal, loving best friends throughout these years. After Melissa graduated from Karns High School in 1988, she went on to Tennessee Technical Community College, where she obtained her Dental Assistant license. Melissa worked at several dentist offices, namely University General Dentistry, where she was employed for approximately 20 years. She met many great friends during her time in dentistry and treasured those relationships and the memories made. Most often Melissa worked with Dr. Andrew Young and valued him not only as her doctor, but even more so, as a good friend. More recently,

Melissa had begun caregiving for ailing individuals, which she thoroughly enjoyed; it was in her nature to do so.

In 1989, Melissa met Michael Hensley in Maynardville, TN. through their parents, who were all friends. They married and had Weston in 1990. She was so happy to be a mom and did great at it.

Weston was an always smiling, handsome, blonde-haired boy and was an only child until Colby arrived 11 years later in 2001, making his entrance with that red hair and perfect, big smile. She treasured her boys. She was a fun, loving, active mother who was as adventurous as they were. From taking them to skating rinks, ballparks, the lake, the beach, and paintball fields, Melissa was a dedicated mother who made her children’s happiness a priority. Being 11 years apart, each one got to spend a lot of time with their mom individually, she always went out of her way to make them happy while having a good time. She loved her children with all her heart and was so proud of both. Melissa loved all children and was always the fun aunt. She played a big role in her nephews Javon and Xavier’s lives, taking them on many trips, adventures, and quick Pigeon Forge trips at the Resort. She loved her many nieces and nephews, friends’ kids, and cousins, and she made sure they all knew it with her frequent hugs, smiles, laughter, visits, and support. They all sure loved their Melissa.

Melissa was a lover of all things outdoors. Her beautiful tan skin color gave that away. She loved animals, lake days, camping, the mountains, races, hanging out with her cousins and friends, Tennessee sports, cooking and sharing, and beach trips. Most recently, she went with her sister Laura to Myrtle Beach, SC, in August where they took a quick flight to go where they felt closest to their parents on their mom’s birthday. Melissa took many beach trips with family and friends, creating everlasting memories. Melissa loved summer, the sun, and water and was always looking to spend a day at the pool. On any given nice day out, it would be typical to get an invitation to the pool, any pool. Melissa loved her music; she was going to sing whether she knew the words or not. Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles, and Journey were among some of her favorites and she saw them several times in concerts. Melissa also loved and found comfort in church hymnals, a favorite being “It is Well with my Soul”.

Melissa adored her first grandson, River (6 months old), and although their time together was cut short, she loved him with all her heart and cherished the time they spent together. She will always be with him in his heart. River has his own personal beautiful Angel walking beside him now. She also loved spending time with her great nephews and nieces, Zayden, Sage, Zendaya, and Steven Jayce. Zayden would call her “Missa”, like Javon did. They could get away with anything with Missa; she sometimes even encouraged a little mischievous behavior for a good laugh.

Melissa loved her friends, friends who were family, and family so much. She loved talking on the phone with them, probably helping them through a rough time in their own life. She was always good at that. She was blessed with genuine love, adoration from all who knew her.

Melissa and Laura lost both parents in the last few years making their bond even stronger. They talked every day, and Melissa always knew the best way to deal with her sister, calm her down when needed, and was always supportive and caring. Melissa was always optimistic and feared nothing. Laura would say, “But would YOU do it?” Melissa would say, “Well, yeah”. They needed each other, and they always had each other. There was nothing that could break that bond. Laura loved her big sister and will miss her terribly while cherishing their shared memories. A sister is a forever friend.

Melissa was preceded in death by her parents, Steve and Delores “Toot” Mahan; grandparents, Cecil and Margery Hughes and Doug and Imogene Mahan; Uncle Gary Mahan; and Uncle Buddy Rogers. Cannot forget her old fur friends Sassy and Keystone. They and many, many others have welcomed Melissa home with wide open arms. She is at peace and home with them all. No more feeling bad.

Melissa is survived by and now an Angel watching over her son Weston (Amber) Hensley, Colby (Sydney) Hensley, grandson River, sister Laura Mahan, nephews Xavier (Jazzmin) Harper and Javon (Ashley) Harper, former husband Mike Hensley, former in laws Janice and Ed Hensley, Aunts Brenda Jacques, Sharon Rogers, Connie Mahan, Sharon Weiman, and Uncle John Mahan as well as many other special cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Services for Melissa will be held Saturday, December 4, 2021, at 1 pm at Beaver Creek Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 7225 Old Clinton Pike, Knoxville, TN 37921. Following the service, there will be a receiving of friends in the fellowship hall at the church.

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Joe Don Swafford

Joe Don Swafford, age 87 of Rockford, TN, went to be with his Heavenly Father Thursday, December 2, 2021, at his home. He was a member of the Riverview Missionary Baptist Church in Rockford. Retired from Rockford Manufacturing Company in 1999. Joe also earned his Barber License from Knoxville Barber College in October 1968. Joe enjoyed playing golf, fishing, going on walks and hikes with his friends, Country Music, his coffee and Bruton snuff. In his last years, he enjoyed sitting on his deck in the warmth of the sun.

Preceded in death by parents, Royal Hobert and Ollie Mae Swafford; brothers, Rollie Leon, Samuel, Jake, and William Lee; sister, Juanita (Cat) Turpin.

Survived by: Sons Ronald (Karen), Joe Allen (Jane), Michael Don, and daughter Angela Cates (David). Grandchildren: KassiWebb (David), Matt Swafford (Jeannie), Kayla Swafford, Brian Cates, Brooke Cates, Beau Swafford, and Chloe Swafford; 2 Great Grandchildren: Luci (Kassi) and Charlie Jane (Matt).Several nieces and nephews. Special Thanks to Tiffany Martin, Joe’s caregiver and friend.

Celebration of Life service to be held at Riverview Missionary Baptist Church, 3709 Sam’s Street, Rockford.  Receiving of Friends from 5:00 pm-6:30 pm and Memorial at 6:30 pm, Tuesday, December 7, 2021.  Reverend Charles Roy Murrell will officiate. Flowers and condolences may be offered at Riverview Baptist Church.

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Linda Jean (Coe) Park

Linda Jean (Coe) Park, 71, of Dandridge, Tennessee, died suddenly on December 15, 2021. She now resides in the Heavenly Kingdom with kindred souls. Born in Athens, Ohio, on January 13, 1950, Linda was the daughter of Robert W. Coe and Florine C. Coe and sister to John A. Coe, all of whom preceded her in death. Linda is survived by her husband, Gary Park, and their two children, Christopher M. Park of Nashville and Rachel Park Hurt (Adlai) of Knoxville, whom she loved unconditionally. She was also blessed with two wonderful grandchildren, Olivia and Atticus Hurt, who will miss all the love, toys, cookies, and adventures that their Grandma gave. She is also survived by close family members, Diane Coe, Bob Briggs (Jackie), and Bette Lauer (Dave).

Linda grew up in Kent, Ohio, and attended Kent State University. She subsequently transferred to The Ohio State University, studying pharmacy. After her marriage to Gary on December 16, 1972, they lived in Columbus, Ohio, and then Roanoke, Virginia, before finding their forever homes in Tennessee.

Linda’s life was one of faith, service, laughter, and love. She never met a stranger and was willing to help all who asked or needed it. She worked hard every day of her life and never found it hard to work.

Linda was an active member of Seahorns Chapel, UMC. She was blessed with a wonderful Church family. Her faith was unwavering, and the fellowship of her Church family brought her great joy and love.

Linda believed that volunteering and service to others were fundamental to a life well-lived. She was a Girl Scout leader, a soccer, softball, and basketball coach, and president of the PTO and West Wilson Basketball Association. She volunteered for numerous other community organizations and was active in the charitable organizations of the churches she attended over her life, most recently her service to the Dandridge Ministerial Association. Even in death, Linda gave what she could through organ donation.

Linda loved to laugh. Her joy and kindness were infectious and will be missed by all who had the good fortune to know her. She loved big and was loved. Although her death was sudden, very unexpected, and just before the Christmas holiday she loved so much, if she were here, she would want her friends, co-workers, and family to press on, spreading joy, enjoying the memories, making new memories, and helping others.

A Church service in Linda’s honor will be held at the Seahorns Chapel, UMC on January 8, 2022 at 1:30 p.m., Pastor John Thompson presiding. Food and fellowship immediately following the service. Linda spent her life helping others. If you would like to help and make a donation in Linda’s honor, please consider a donation to Holston Home for Children, 404 Holston Drive, Greenville, Tennessee 37743.

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Robert Stephen Tait

Robert Stephen Tait: December 13, 1951 – December 15, 2021.  Robert passed after a valiant and fierce fight with COVID-19 pneumonia.

Robert was born in Chamblee, Atlanta. He was adopted by Emmitte P. Tait and Dorthy Stitzer Tait.

He embarked on his career with the US Navy and served 24 years, earning the rank of Chief Petty Officer.  He was deployed to many countries and areas including Japan, Iceland, Sicily, the Philippines, etc.

After leaving the Navy, Robert obtained his bachelor’s in business administration, and after 9/11, he became employed by Homeland Security and spent his final years working as a program analyst, retiring in 2019 and settling in Knoxville, Tennessee, with his wife, Barbara. They had been married 9 years at the time of his death.

Robert is survived by his wife, Barbara Davis Phipps and his daughters, Hilary Tait Terry (wife of Ray Terry) and his two grandchildren, Ivy Rayne Terry and Samuel Bryant Terry; and by his daughter, Carrie Chandler (wife of Chris Chandler).  He is also survived by his sister, Christie Nicholas, and also by many in-laws and friends too numerous to name.

Please remember Robert when you marvel at the beauties of our natural world, enjoy a great book, or show kindness to any animal or person in need.

The burial will be private.

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Billie Joyce Sharpe

Billie Joyce Sharpe, 71, went to be with the Lord on December 27, 2021, while surrounded by the ones she loved.

She was born on October 21st, 1950, in Straw Plains, TN, to Bill and Eursa France. Billie grew up in a larger family than most, she had three sisters and two brothers. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Michael David Sharpe; her parents, Bill and Eursa France; and her brother, Gene France.

Survivors include sons Billy Jack Jones and Brian Keith Jones; grandchildren Jordan, Justis, Jayda, and Chrystian Jones; great-grandson, Blaine Jones; brother, Ronnie France; sisters, Wilma Bunch, Della Maples, and Kay Byrd.

Billie will remain in the hearts of those that she loved and will be missed dearly.

The family will hold a memorial service at a later date.

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