Brenda Joyce Marsee, 81, of Powell, Tennessee, went home to be with the Lord Tuesday, June 28, 2022, surrounded by her loving family. She had a courageous battle with cancer and other health problems yet maintained a cheerful attitude and never complained. During the last 3 months, she became a quick favorite to several hospital staff members and was always able to make them laugh.

Mrs. Marsee was born to Henry Clive Owens and Flossie Belle Owens on December 20, 1940, in Middlesboro, Kentucky. She was the youngest of 10 siblings, all of whom she loved dearly. She married her husband of 63 years, Roy Marsee, on September 5, 1958. He said she overcame her fear of flying just for him so they could travel the world together, a lifelong dream of his. They loved to “spoil” each other, and together they shared many adventures, the greatest of which was raising their three children. She was a selfless, loving, and caring wife, mother, and nana. She was considered a second mother to some of her children’s friends.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brothers Henry (Opal), Earl (Mae), Eugene (Juanita), Bob (Bette), Cliva (Dottie), Jack (Betty), and Mack (Layla) Owens, her brothers-in-law, Bobby Walker, Robert Davison, Dale Corum, Ralph Marsee, Charles (Ann) Marsee, Eddie Marsee, and Don Grimes.

Mrs. Marsee is survived by her husband, their children, Roy Marsee Jr., Teresa (Tim) Whaley, and Susan Acree; grandchildren, Joseph (Bekah) Whaley, Joshua (Melissa) Whaley, Bo (Katelyn) Marsee, Zack (Paige) Marsee, Stephanie Marsee, Garren (Makayla) Acree, Christina (Tanner) Horton; sisters, Jerry Davison and Delores Walker; and 9 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by brothers-in-law and sisters-in law, Lois Grimes, Joyce (Randall) Short, Bobby (Debbie) Marsee, Lynda (Mark) Bayless, and Barbara Marsee; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

The family will have a receiving of friends at Greene Hills Baptist Church in Greeneville, TN Tuesday, July 5, 4-6PM, with a celebration of life at 6PM.

A private burial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s or any non-profit of your choice in Mrs. Marsee’s memory.

Philippians 4:8 – Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

John 13:7 – Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”

Ramona Ann Didier, 81, joined the angels in heaven on June 29, 2022. Ramona left this world embraced by her daughters, Kimberley and Valerie de Ropp, at Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge. She was preceded in death by her parents, the late Ruth and Donald (“Big Don”) Buttry, and close family friend, Sam Cody.

Ramona earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in French with a minor in Musical Theater at UT. She taught voice, piano, French and Spanish; owned three boutiques (where she was a trendsetter with her own clothing designs); sang in a combo band; and was named a finalist in the 1959 Miss Knoxville pageant. For 40 years, she served the community as proprietor of the family businesses “Big Don The Costumier” and “Big Don’s Elegant Junk” in the Old City.

Ramona worked as the costume designer for a myriad of musicals in greater Knoxville including such favorites as West Side Story, Wizard of Oz, Fiddler on the Roof, and Annie. She was active with the sororities and fraternities at UT and costumed their productions of Carnicus and All-Sing. Her costumes were worn by Academy Award winner Sam Rockwell in the 1996 feature film Box of Moonlight.

Ramona was featured many times in the Knoxville News Sentinel and on local TV as the premier professional for special events, birthday parties, balloon deliveries, Halloween, and holiday costumes. Ramona was an aficionado of singing telegrams and a free-thinking eccentric who often stayed in costume after performances to run errands still dressed as a gorilla or flapper.

Her favorite character was “Sparkles the Clown”, which she created in the 1980s. “Sparkles” entertained children of all ages with magic tricks, face painting, and animal balloons. Ramona delighted in making people smile and especially loved children and young people for their innocence and imagination.

Ramona found strength in her faith and always believed God was watching over her. “Let go and let God” and “God, you know my needs” were her mantras. She loved her family, animals, gardening, traveling (especially to the beach) and collecting antiques.

In addition to her daughters, Ramona is survived by her son-in-law John Alderson, Jr.; grandson, Ryan de Ropp; and granddaughter, Maria Farmer.

Ramona’s daughters would like to thank Jim and Diane de Ropp, the staff of The Groves, and Methodist Medical Center in Oak Ridge.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to local animal shelters.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Halloween Eve, October 30th, a date that is fitting for the “costume queen of Knoxville”. Location TBA.

Dale Wayne Chess passed away on July 17, 2022, at his home, surrounded by his family, after a long battle with cancer.

Born on February 29, 1956, Dale was a hard worker, loved his family, and was an avid sports fan, Go Steelers! He was also a member of the Christus Victor Church.

He was preceded in death by parents, Mildred and Glenn Chess; brother, Gene.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Joyce; daughter, Shannon (Ryan) Theobald; grandchildren, Luke and Annabelle; sisters, Joy (Rob) Dragasavac and Rhonda Chess; step-daughter, Leah Carter; several nieces and nephews; and special friend, Noreen.

The family would like to recognize Amedisys Home Health Care and Hospice for their great care.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, July 30, 2022, at Christus Victor Church (4110 Central Ave Pike, Knoxville, TN). In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local humane society in Dale’s honor.

James Meletiou, 85, passed away peacefully on July 24th, 2022, surrounded by loved ones. He graduated from Lee College in 1969 with a bachelor of science degree, majoring in history. He worked for many years as an adult education instructor with the Knox County school system. James taught literacy and GED skills to prisoners as part of his job as well. He spent much of his free time reading and writing, gardening, hiking, and ministering to those he taught in prison.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lucian and Irene Meletiou.

James is survived by his loving wife, Iris Joan Crownover Meletiou; children Mary Raney, Michael Meletiou; grandchildren Anna Raney and Micah Raney; sisters Effie Bazos and Melba Poulos; and many other friends and family.

A receiving of friends and celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 30th, 2 o’clock with a service to follow at Knoxville House of Faith, 416 Lovenia Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37917. Pastor Nathan Floyd will be officiating the service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to Knoxville House of Faith or River’s Edge Christian Academy.

Pamela Michelle Steely Breeden Cruse, passed away suddenly at home Saturday July 30, 2022. She is proceeded in death by her parents Robert and Mary Steely, brother Robert Steely Jr, niece Brittany, nephews Aiden and Robby. She leaves behind her children and grandchildren Veronica (Bo), Jama (Daniel), Hunter and Emma, Casey (Lindsay), Weston and Audrina, Valerie (Eric), Chevy, Special grandchildren Jeremy, Brianna, Jarred, Brooke, Courtney, her sister Angela (Jimmy), Jessica, nephew Joshua, niece’s Brandi and Ashley, Special friends Bill, Jimmy and Bree, Partner in crime Mary, several friends of Maryville Towers.Memorial service for friends and extended family will be held at the Blount County Public Library Saturday August 6, 2022 from 11-1. Speaking will begin at 12:30.

Gary Lee Wilson, 56, of Maryville, TN, passed away on August 7, 2022.

Gary was predeceased by Grandparents Ruby & Fred Wilson and Thelma & Elmer Breeden.

He is survived by his spouse Teresa Wilson, daughters Samantha Wilson & Tabitha Wilson, grandchildren Gauge Hicks & Conner Headrick, parents James & Carolyn Wilson, and twin brother Larry Wilson.

Receiving Friends and Family will begin at 6pm. The funeral service will follow at 7pm. Services will be held on August 19th, 2022, at Lone Oak Baptist Church located at 831 W Lamar Alexander Parkway, Maryville, TN 37801.

Mike Martin, 63, passed away in his Knoxville home on August 12th, 2022.

He is preceded in death by parents, Woody Martin and Ann Covington.

Mike is survived by his children: Michael, Leigh Ann, Natalie, and Tiffini Martin; grandchildren: Mikey, Rayleigh, and Courtney Martin, and Blake and Avah Hopper.

He worked the last 14 years at Pips Iron Works in Knoxville as a Steel Fabricator and was well liked by all he encountered. Those who knew him well described him as kind, loving, and loyal.

A celebration of life will be held for his local friends at The Casual Pint Brewery, 10677 Hardin Valley Rd, Knoxville, TN 37932 on Friday, August 19, 2022 from 6 – 8pm.

A memorial service will be held at Landmark Baptist Church, 321 CR 23, Dennis, MS 38838 on Saturday, August 20, 2022 from 4-6pm.  Flowers and Gifts can be requested from Southern Elegance Florist & Boutique (662) 279-5763.

Allen M. Hodge (Bud), 67, passed away August 21,2022. He suffered from multiple illnesses for a period of time. He was a veteran of the United States Army from 1975-1978. He was proceeded in death by Mother, Mary B. Hill; Brothers, Charles S Hodge (Stimey) and Gregory Hill (Greg). He is survived by Sister, Donna Johnson and Brother, Marty Hill. Bud will be greatly missed by many. There will be no services at this time. Will update at a later time.

Karen Dee Morgan Rickels, age 59, of Seymour, passed away Monday August 22nd, 2022. She was a longtime active member of Valley Grove Baptist Church. She loved being a wife and mama, but her favorite title was “DeeDee.” To know her was to see Proverbs 31 lived out before us.

She was preceded in death by her father and mother, Jesse (J.P.) and Louise Morgan; father-in-law and mother-in-law, William (Bill) and Jean Rickels;   She is survived by her husband of 39 years, Gregory (Greg) Rickels; children, Whitney (Ronnie) Hanline, and Derrick (Alli) Rickels; grandchildren, Hadley Hanline and Colson Rickels; sisters, Judy (Jon) Braswell and Donna (Jim) Barger; brothers-in-law, Steve (Jodi) Rickels, Don Rickels, and Richard (Teresa) Rickels; many special nephews and cousins; countless dear friends.

The family will receive friends from 5-8 p.m. Thursday August 25th at Valley Grove Baptist Church in the parlor. We invite you to make a donation to Valley Grove Baptist Church in her honor, in lieu of flowers.

Alfred Courtney, age 45, was born on July 11, 1977 and passed away on Monday, August 29, 2022. Alfred had a big heart and was deeply loved by his family and friends. He will be remembered for his bright smile, nurturing spirit, work ethic and love of his nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his mother, Tresia Courtney; brother, Jason Courtney; sister, Tonya Jarrard; Uncle Jerry Courtney (Sally); Aunt Deborah Townsley; nephews Corey Jarrard, Derick Jarrard, Ayden Courtney, Braylon Courtney; niece Trishia Jarrard; two great nephews Corey Jarrard Jr, and Carter Forsythe; and great niece Bentlynn Forsythe.

Family and friends will always cherish the good memories and times that was spent with Alfred. He was a chef at the Waffle House where people would travel for miles to eat one of his world famous omlettes. Our hearts will forever feel the loss and emptiness of his absence. There will be a celebration of his life on Sunday, September 11, 2022 from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm at Jaycee Park, 314 Nave St, Clinton, TN 37716 for family and friends.

December 8, 1952 to July 12, 2022 Richard passed away peacefully at his home on July 12, 2022 after a battle with cancer.

He is preceeded in death by his Father Perry Abbott Shields, Mother Eva Cobb Shields, Brothers Robert “Bobby” Shields and wife Glenda, John “Buzzy” Shields

Survived by – Companion of 45 years Linda Caylor and daughter Gina, Sons – Ricky & Jennifer, David, Kevin. Sister – Edith Shields Abbott and Don, Brother – Mike Shields, Sister-in-law – Linda Shields of Charleston SC.

Nieces – Paula, Darla, Teresa Abbott, Karen, Terri, Vicky Shields, Nephews – Bobby and Troy Shields. Special longtime friend Ronnie Hepperly. Many other family and friends.

Graveside Services are scheduled for Saturday, September 24 at 11:00 am at Caylor’s Chapel Cemetary, 486 Webb Road, Townsend, with Pastor Ronnie Hepperly officiating. A lite lunch will be served at RIO Townsend for fellowship after the service at 325 Webb Road, Townsend.

Ronald Keith Keller passed away September 7, 2022, and with that, the world lost a first class mechanic and an accomplished storyteller. Born on February 8, 1942 to Mary Margaret Woodby Keller and Kenneth Howard Keller, he learned everything he knew about engines at the knee of his father, whom he described as the best and most patient teacher ever. He loved his dad so much that a picture of him is the first thing you’d see when he opened his wallet. He was preceded in death by both parents and two brothers-in-law.

Ron, or “Ronnie” if you’d known him since he was young, had a fondness for anything with a motor. He was an exceptionally skilled mechanic. A week before his death, he got into his daughter’s car. She started it and he immediately pointed out a “tick”. It had just left the dealership, but when she took it back in, sure enough, there’s an obscure problem on a minute percentage of that model. While living with his daughter and her family, he spent many lazy evenings debating the merits of Chevrolets and Fords with his son-in-law. That argument has still not been settled.

He loved seeing and aggravating his grandchildren while living with his daughter and they knew he always kept Mountain Dew and Little Debbie cakes and was good for at least a $5 when they went to the skating rink.

Blessed with a quick, often sarcastic, sense of humor, he could easily charm anyone he put his mind to charming and infuriate the ones he didn’t. He was a favorite of most, but not all, when he was in the hospital, rehab centers, Waffle House and Hardee’s. He would give you the shirt off his back and sometimes the shirt off someone else’s if you needed it. He had more stories than you could shake a stick at. The challenge was identifying fact and fiction, but he was always entertaining and he had a wide circle of friends who are missing him already.

He is survived by his daughters, Kristin Sands (Lucas), Megan Boring (Shannon), Mary Brown and Amelia Baker (Chris); grandchildren Jordan(Katie), Gracie, Ellie, Quade, Anna, Emily, Jake, Tyra, Haylee, Jase, Mason and Merynn, and one great-grandson, Lincoln. He is also survived by all his sisters, Phyllis (LP), Janice (Wayne), Mary Lynn and Becky and his brother Jerry (Agnes) who has looked out for him for years, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews as well as his ex-wife and mother of his four daughters, Gwen Beem. Bo Nuchols was a faithful friend whom he loved until the end.

Linda and Larry Patty, his cousin and her husband were life-long friends, and he was living with them at the time of his death but counting the days until he could move to his daughter’s house in Greenback. It won’t be the same without him there.

While he was not attending any church, he was adamant that “I know where I’m going” and could be seen reading his Bible every night when he didn’t know anyone was watching. He knew Scripture and could hold his own in any discussion. In the end, it wasn’t COPD or heart disease that took him, it was losing his sight to the point that he couldn’t drive “Big Red” on his rounds to Hardee’s and Waffle House every day. Thank you to all of the workers there who watched out for him and cared for him and thanks to Megan who is the only one who could convince him to go to the hospital.

A memorial service will be held on September 18 at 2 p.m. at Salem Baptist Church, 4602 Salem Road, Greenback.