Obituaries

James Brandon-Butner Byrd entered the world on November 5, 2021 and was called back to heaven by God on November 6, 2021. He joins in heaven his great grandfather, Harold Harrington; grandfather, James “Randy” Byrd; grandmother, Ellen Marie Butner; great uncle, Ricky Abel; and uncle and aunt, Brandon and Samantha Byrd.

His passing is mourned by his parents, Amanda Byrd and Jimmy Butner of Murfreesboro; brother and sisters, Jaylin Wood and Roman Keedy both of Murfreesboro and Chloe Byrd of Michigan; grandparents, Ray and Christy Hunt of Murfreesboro; James Butner, Sr. of LaVergne; great grandmother, Cathy (Dan) Barden of Michigan; aunts and uncle, Karen Cottrell and Steven Robinson both of Smyrna; Brandy Castillo of Georgia, Camri Garza of Michigan, Skye Hunt, Faith Hunt, Sarah Hunt, and Amber Hunt all of Woodbury as well as numerous other cousins and relatives.

James’ name was a combination of multiple family members’ names, and his family was eagerly awaiting to welcome him home. They had several grand adventures in store for him and so many memories they were looking forward to sharing together. They had already began making preparations for his entrance into the world.  A nursery decorated with a Batman and Pops action figure theme would welcome him home.

Baseball was a family tradition that they looked forward to passing along to James. His dad had big plans to share his love of collecting baseball cards. His grandfather looked forward to continuing the tradition of playing catch with each of his grandkids, and everyone was ready to work on batting tips when James was ready to play baseball.

His mom couldn’t wait to take him outside and show him the wonders of the world.  Introducing him to the outdoors and how to use his imagination were her plans to keep him from staying indoors playing on the computer. Any boy would be thrilled to go fishing, and they were anticipating those adventures.  His large extended family couldn’t wait to begin the spoiling that was sure to come.

While their hearts are broken, they are comforted by the fact he received his angel wings and family was waiting to greet him in heaven and take him into their care.

Visitation will be held at Gentry-Smith Funeral Home on Saturday, November 13, 2021, from 12-2 pm. Memorial services will be held in the Gentry-Smith Funeral Home chapel at 2 pm. Tim Gentry will officiate. Share thoughts and condolences with the family at www.gentrysmithfuneralhome.com  Gentry-Smith Funeral Home, 303 Murfreesboro Rd. Woodbury, TN 37190, 615-563-5337. Because every life has a story.

Carter White Murphy was born on Thursday, April 22, 2021 to his loving parents, Clifton R. Murphy, Sr. and Mary L. Nichols, at St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital. Carter’s family was blessed with 6 months and 14 days with him before he went to his heavenly home on November 5, 2021.

Though Carter was born premature, he was a happy and healthy baby, and his size earned him the nickname “Hoss” from his parents. Born with enough hair to make a mohawk, Carter’s dad took every opportunity to style his hair that way, and his hair matched his spirit. Carter was a bundle of joy with an outgoing personality. He was very energetic and loved to show off his boots that Ma Ruth got for him. An observant baby, he already knew faces and voices and would light up at the sound of his mother’s. He also loved all of his big brothers and sisters and would play with them and his cousins like he was the same size.

Carter knew what he needed to be happy in life, and aside from his family’s love, he was content with his favorite blanket and a bottle. He loved to wrap up in his blanket with it pulled up to his chin, especially when listening to music with his mom and dad. “My Hero” was a song he liked to listen to with his daddy. Carter loved visiting his aunt and uncle, Beth and Keith’s, house. Carter had just reached the milestone of being able to roll over on his own, and he was working on cutting some more teeth.

Preceding him in death were his grandfathers, Bobby “BJ” Johnson and Ricky “Pa” Murphy. Carter is deeply loved and remembered by his Mom and Dad; grandmothers, Ruth Murphy of Woodbury and Kathy (Rick) Hindsley of Smithville; big brothers and sisters, Kimberly, Tiffany, Justin, and Addison Johnson, Ally and Emma Nichols, Christian Dehaven, Hunter, Kaylee, Kaytlynn, Kaydyn, KayAnna, Clifton Jr., and Jaxon Murphy; aunt and uncles; Fairy and Mark Johnson of Smithville, David and BJ Murphy of Woodbury, Kayla and Joey Nicholson of Woodbury, and Keith Barrett and Beth Murphy of Woodbury; and numerous cousins, great aunts, and great uncles. Carter will always remain his parents’ precious baby and his siblings little brother.

Visitation will be held at Gentry-Smith Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 10, 2021 from 12-8 pm. Funeral services will be Thursday, November 11, 2021 at 2 pm in the Gentry-Smith Funeral Home chapel. Tim Gentry will officiate. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to assist with expenses. Share memories and condolences at www.gentrysmithfuneralhome.com Gentry-Smith Funeral Home, 303 Murfreesboro Rd. Woodbury, TN 37190, 615-563-5337 Because every life has a story

Mrs. Ruth Ann Blythe, 79 of Murfreesboro passed away on November 6, 2021. She was a native of Toledo, Ohio born on April 1, 1942, but lived most of her life in Rutherford County. She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd Lewis and Nancy D. Smith, stepmother, Joann Lewis, husband, Bobby Blythe, Sr., and by a son, John Walter Lewis.

She is survived by sons, Bobby (Sherry) Blythe, Jr. of Murfreesboro and Shannon Blythe, brothers, Marshall (Betty) Lewis and James Lewis both of Toledo, OH, sisters, Linda Lewis, and Laura Lesko both of Toledo, OH and Mary Lewis of Texas, grandchildren, John Lewis, Jr., Janet Lewis, Skyler Blythe, Makala Blythe, Emily Breedlove, and Tony Breedlove.

Growing up in Ohio, she attended Mary Brook Catholic Academy, now known as St. John’s University, and graduated in 1960. In 1961, she made her way to Rutherford County. It wasn’t long before she settled in and set down roots.

In her spare time, she loved reading most any kind of book. Detective novels and history books topped the list of favorites. The only exception to books she loved to read were romance novels. Whenever she could slip away, she loved to go fishing. Being outdoors gave her a great level of peace. Often, she dreamed of having a little cabin where she could have a cup of coffee and watch the birds eat from her feeders. 

Though not a social butterfly, she loved talking to people and could talk your ear off. Fitting her unique personality, she and her husband had special nicknames for each other. He lovingly called her “Wife Woman,” and she called him, “Boar Hog.”  Living life simply and on her own terms was her way. She could have a stubborn streak and loved her independence. Her family and friends will remember her fondly for her smile, humor, and unique personality.

The family will have visitation at Gentry-Smith Funeral Home on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021, from 12-2 pm. Funeral services will follow in the Gentry-Smith Funeral Home chapel at 2 pm. Gaylon Dawson will officiate with interment following at Milton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to a church or charity of choice. Share memories and condolences with the family at www.gentrysmithfuneralhome.com  Gentry-Smith Funeral Home, 303 Murfreesboro Rd. Woodbury, TN 37190, 615-563-5337. Because every life has a story.

Richard “Critter” Barabas, Sr., 78, passed away Thursday, Nov. 4, 2021 at St. Thomas Rutherford.  He was a native of Whitehouse, NJ and resided in Bradyville, TN.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Joyce Barabas of Bradyville; children, James (Patty) Barabas of Three Bridges, N.J., Theresa Barabas of Mt. Arlington, N.J., John (Donna) Barabas of Smith, AL., Richard (Dian) Barabas, Jr. of Woodbury, Michael Andrew Barabas of Bradyville and Kim (Scoty) Miller of Murfreesboro and brother, Henry Edward Barabas of Jackson, N.J. Also surviving are many grandchildren, great grandchildren and his beloved four-legged companion, Roe.

Mr. Barabas was preceded in death by his parents, Henry P. and Matilda Debert Barabas; his wife, Martha; his grandson, Nicholas Barabas and his siblings, Robert Barabas, Marie Lunden and Irene Calnan.

Richard was retired from Weaver Transport where he was the shop foreman.  He loved fishing, woodworking and taking his yearly deer hunting trips to Pennsylvania with his buddies.  They affectionately called him “Critter”.  A member of the Mt. Herman Baptist church, Mr. Barabas was a Christian man who enjoyed spending time with his church family and his Sunday school class.  Above all he loved his family and making memories with them.

Graveside services will be 11 am Tuesday, November 9, 2021 in the Riverside cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mt. Herman Baptist church building fund.  Donations may be send to Woodbury Funeral Home, 504 W. Main St., Woodbury, TN.  37190, 615-563-2311.
 
Woodbury Funeral Home, 615-563-2311 or to leave condolences and memories for his family, please visit www.woodburyfuneralhome.net 

Cecil E. Bowman, 91, passed away Sat., October 30, 2021 at Woodbury Health Care.  He was a native of Celina, Clay Co., TN. and was a resident of Murfreesboro.

He is survived by his wife, Elene Cavanaugh Bowman of Murfreesboro; children, Rita Kay Bowman Bryson and her husband, Terry of Readyville and Gary Lee Bowman of Sht. Mtn. Community; stepchildren, Teresa Castleberry Moseley of Murfreesboro and Walter Thomas Castleberry of Huntsville; grandchildren, Chrissy Bowman Vaughn, Nathan Bryson, Cecilia Bowman, Brooke Bryson Vanderbent, and Cassie Bowman; step grandchildren, Melissa Moseley Robbins, Matthew Thomas Castleberry, Sarah Kaitlyn Castleberry and Caroline Elizabeth Castleberry; brother, Edward Bowman of Newport News, VA.; stepsister, Teena (Arna) Smithson of Woodbury and aunts, Savannah Morgan and Beatrice Barrett both of Murfreesboro.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Waymon & Clyde Rich Bowman; his first wife, Margie Elizabeth Knox Bowman and his siblings, Sarah Bowman and Billy Ray Bowman.

A member of the Antioch church of Christ, Mr. Bowman was a retired mechanic and auto body repairman.  He was also a church of Christ minister for many years.  He also fulfilled many mission trips to Jamaica. Cecil retired from the United States Army as Staff Sergeant and was a veteran of both the Korean and Vietnam wars.  He enjoyed restoring antique vehicles, fishing, gardening and spending time with his dog, Blackie.

Funeral services will be 1 PM Wednesday, November 3, 2021 in the Chapel of Woodbury Funeral Home with Bro. Bud Mitchell officiating.  Interment will follow at Thyatira cemetery.  Pallbearers include Nathan Bryson, Jeremey Vaughn, Eric Robbins, Buster Alexander, Paul Nipper and Russell Paschal. 

Visitation with the family will be Tuesday, November 2, 2021 from 4 pm until 8 pm and Wednesday, November 2, 2021 from 11 am until 1 pm.

Woodbury Funeral Home, 615-563-2311 or to leave condolences and memories for her family, please visit www.woodburyfuneralhome.net  

Teresa St. John Van Hooser, 79, of Merritt Island, FL. passed away Friday, October 22, 2021 in La Plata, MD where she was being cared for by her son, Patrick.  She was born in Cannon Co., TN., the daughter of the late Austin and Clara St. John.

She is survived by her son, Patrick Van Hooser and his wife, Rebecca of Lusby, MD; grandsons, John Austin Van Hooser and William Van Hooser.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John Van Hooser, Jr.; and siblings, Darlene Smith and Lindra McWilliams.

A member of the church of Christ, Teresa was a computer programmer.  She was a loving mother and grandmother who loved spending time with them and seeing their accomplishments. Ms. Van Hooser has gone to her eternal home where she is finally reunited with her loving husband, John.

Funeral services will be 11 AM Saturday, October 30, 2021 in the Chapel of Woodbury Funeral Home.  Interment will follow at Blues Hill cemetery.  Visitation with the family will be Friday, Oct. 29, 2021 from 3 pm until 8 pm.  

Woodbury Funeral Home, 615-563-2311 or to leave condolences and memories for her family, please visit www.woodburyfuneralhome.net  

Sgt. Matthew Studd, 64, of Woodbury passed away on October 15, 2021.  He was born in Jamestown, NY on December 28, 1956.  He was preceded in death by his father, Loris Leroy Studd; mother, Madge Lorraine Fredrickson Waid; son, David Studd; stepbrother, Ed Gordon Waid; and stepdaughter, Lindsey Polzin.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Bucknell Studd and their two sons, Joshua and Nathanial Studd of Woodbury; sons, Sean (Sarah) Studd and their children,  Jade and Brandon of Woodbury and Daniel (Leah) Studd and their children, Caleb and Laney of Beechgrove; daughters, Shannon (Ryan) Bush and their children, Kylie and Emily of Readyville and Dawn (George) Hart of Poughkeepsie, NY; stepdaughter, Annie Snook of South Portland, ME; Lindsey’s children, Drew, Jake, and Chase; brother, Ryan (Beverly) Studd of Bethpage; half-brother, Gordon Waid; stepbrothers, Paul Duwayne (Becky) Waid of Russell, PA and Bruce Waid of Kennedy, NY; sisters, Laura (Mike) Cox of Decherd, Heidi Causey of Gillette, WY, and Maralyn (Peter) Fryberger of Owen’s Crossroads, AL; stepsister, Rosemary Olive (Steve) Fannin of TX; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was also blessed with a multiplicity of friends.

When Sgt. Studd made the decision to return to civilian life, he utilized the skillset he gained in the U.S. Marine Corps. He drove for Cassens Transport Company and jokingly made his job title “Carhaulogist.” Though protecting and providing for his family were key areas of interest for Sgt. Studd, he also had the goal to instill in his children the value of God and Country as well as community. His training kicked in, and he again stepped up to the plate to lead by action. Over the course of his life, Sgt. Studd was involved in countless civic groups, volunteer organizations, and other entities. To name a few, he was a founding member and former Assistant Chief of the West Side Volunteer Fire Department, served as Chairman of the Cannon County Election Commission, and was very active in the Hilton Stone American Legion Post 279 and Tactical Civics.

Outside of government and community, Sgt. Studd was an outgoing Christian and an avid hunter. An evangelist at heart, wherever he happened to be was seen as an opportunity to talk to someone about salvation. He recharged his spirit attending services at World Outreach Church and through his personal Bible studies. When he needed time to himself, he enjoyed going hunting and being out in God’s creation. He made the most of his TWRA membership every chance he had, and his children were beneficiaries of that.

He raised a family of outdoor enthusiasts. Shannon, Sean, Daniel, Annie, Dawn, and Lindsey enjoyed several camping trips and outdoor adventures growing up. Going camping with a Marine kept things interesting, and the weather was only considered an inconvenience rather than a concern. Sgt. Studd had told stories of camping when the rain was pouring down so hard that the air mattresses were floating. All of those adventures will be memories cherished across lifetimes as the stories are relived and retold.

In 1999, Sgt. Studd decided to create an online dating profile. A woman named Nancy Bucknell reached out to him, and they immediately hit it off. After dating for 2 years, they were married on September 1, 2001 in the Woodbury Church of Christ. They built their lives together and created a blended family with their 2 sons, Joshua and Nathanial. Even though the boys were born in an age of technology, Sgt. Studd still made sure he got them outside.

Mud bogs, car shows, and air shows hold irreplaceable memories as well as all of the nerf and water gun fights. It was important to Sgt. Studd for his boys to understand the value of living in America. So, every year on April 19, Sgt. Studd would take Joshua and Nathanial out, let them pick a long rifle, and commemorate the day of “the shot heard round the world” in 1775. It was a small act that kept in the forefront of their minds the sacrifices made for the creation of America.

Sgt. Matthew Studd enlisted in the USMC in December 1975, pledging his Oath to defend the Constitution and Country against all enemies, foreign and domestic so help him God. He firmly maintained that his oath would never expire, and his patriot mentality was partially derived from his family’s rich military heritage. His paternal grandfather, Lee Studd, served in the USMC during WWI. Lee fought in Battle of Belleau Wood France, where the German command labeled the ferocious marines “Devil Dogs.”

Following the Japanese raid on Pearl Harbor, his father, Loris Studd, and uncles, Warren and Marshall Studd, dropped out of high school and enlisted in the military. Warren followed in his father’s footsteps and served in the USMC, while Loris and Marshall elected to join the US Navy, both serving in the Pacific Theater. Loris served on the USS Cacapon (AO-52), which was a T3 Cimarron-class fleet oiler. Following their enlistments to serve during WWII, all three brothers were honorably discharged.

Deciding to join the military was not a decision made lightly by Sgt. Studd. He had big shoes to fill when he entered basic training at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego in Platoon 1137. However, he was prepared for the challenge and stepped up to the plate. During basic, Sgt. Studd was the Second Squad Leader and was second highest in the Expert Rifle Score. He earned a meritorious promotion to PFC E-2 upon his graduation.

After basic, Sgt. Studd was assigned to Basic Motor Transport Training at Camp Johnson. Graduating in the top 10 of the class, he was then given orders to complete the Advanced Motor Transport Training Program. Again, he graduated at the top, earning him the opportunity to choose his duty station. Receiving another early meritorious promotion to Lance Corporal E-3, Sgt. Studd was sent across the country to the Third Marine Air Wing, WERS-37 (Wing Equipment Repair Squadron 37) at the El-Toro Air Base in Southern California. He served on the 4th Echelon Component Rebuild Platoon and was nominated for Marine of the Month, which later lead to another early meritorious promotion to Corporal E-4.

The Component Rebuild Platoon was reorganized and restructured to become the 1st FSSG Det. B (Force Service Support Group and a Detachment) from Camp Pendleton, and Sgt. Studd became one of the platoon leaders. As a leader, he was directly responsible for reducing down time and the number of motor transport vehicles parked on the Compound awaiting parts and repairs. With the teams under his command, Sgt. Studd was able to achieve zero trucks parked idle awaiting repairs on numerous occasions. It was the strong oversight and high standards of his leading officers that cultivated the esprit de corps within Sgt. Studd, which he shared liberally with those he was directly responsible.

Later on, Sgt. Studd received recognition through a Meritorious Mass put on by the commanding officer. After 18 months in service, another early meritorious promotion came Sgt. Studd’s way, and he was promoted to Sergeant E-5 and to the Platoon Sergeant position. Prior to leaving the USMC, Sgt. Studd was presented the honorable Warrant Officer’s opportunity, which would have turned the USMC into a career. However, with two children recently delivered at the Long Beach Naval Hospital, he decided to conclude his enlistment and pursue a life as a civilian father. What he termed his “4-year enlightenment” came to an end in November 1979, but the memories and lessons live on.

Sgt. Studd expressed his deep appreciation for the education and growth that the USMC afforded him early on in his life. The saying, “Once a Marine, always a Marine” remained true throughout his life. He believed and saw how freedom and liberty can be just one generation away if we allow it. Old Glory was more than just a symbol to him. He made an oath to devote his life to the protection of the values and freedom for which it stands. To have family and personal experience fighting for and sacrificing for something people take for granted daily gives you a different perspective on life, and his patriotism and sense of honor brought to life a time often forgotten.

A few months before he passed, Sgt. Studd shared a prayer with Hilton Stone American Legion Auxiliary Unit 279, and it is one that he would want to continue being prayed for our Country:

“May God Almighty bless and guide America and those who have and who continue to serve Her. May He change the hearts of those bent on Her destruction or change their power and positions as Enemies of our Constitutional Republic. May America once again become a blessing to God Almighty and to the World, His Creation, of which we are a vital part!”

Semper Fi

Visitation will be held at Gentry-Smith Funeral Home on Thursday, October 21, 2021 from 3-7 pm. The Celebration of Life will be Friday, October 22, 2021 with visitation from 2-3 pm and the service directly following at 3 pm in the Hillside Fellowship chapel. Wendell Sealy, Mae Beavers, and Mark Pody will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to A Soldier’s Child, Samaritan’s Purse, Global Accord, and Doctors Without Borders. Share memories and condolences at www.gentrysmithfuneralhome.com Gentry-Smith Funeral Home, 303 Murfreesboro Rd. Woodbury, TN 37190, 615-563-5337 Because every life has a story

Odes Cleavon Rackley, 88, of Bradyville passed away Sunday, October 18, 2021 at his home.  He was born in Morrison, TN.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Phyllis Goff Rackley of Bradyville; daughter, Darlene (James) Burd of Goodlettsville; stepchildren, Cindy (Edward) McCabe of Bon Aqua, Ricky Foster (Carol Prater) of Bradyville, Cathy Fults of McMinnville; grandchildren, Heather (Ricky) Ridley and Shea Burd; step grandchildren, Allison (John) Fischer, Kyle McCabe, Jeremy (Amy) Foster, Nicholas (April) Foster, Jeff (Lynn) Fults, Michelle (Eric) Holt, Lacey (Phillip) Hasting, Lynn Fults, LaNae Campbell, Lynsie Armstrong; great grandchildren, Madison (Christian) Brown, Avriel Burd and Jillian Burd; step great grandchildren, Evelina Gray Fischer, Beau Brooks Fischer, Madison and Macie Foster, Tenerra, Madison and Brittany Fults, Brandon and Erica Dixon, India Holt, Noah, Coley and Kamryn Campbell, Chase Grosch, Sybil Haston and Bella Armstrong and brother, Joe Ed (Linda) Rackley of Manchester.  Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Issac & Ida Pearl Johnson Rackley; his first wife, Pauline Rackley; stepdaughter, Paula Armstrong and siblings, Mary Pearl Wilson, Bertha Gunter, Douglas, Harvey, Dow and Cordell Rackley.

Odes was a Christian who read his bible daily and was a member of the McMinnville Church of God.  He was a veteran of the United States Army where he served during the Korean War with the military police.  Mr. Rackley was the owner of Rackley Amusement Co. He was also a member of the VFW, American Legion, and the Moose Lodge.

Odes was a man who loved his family. He wanted to make sure that they knew the Lord and did good in this life. His hobbies included fishing, playing guitar and banjo. Odes loved to joke with people and play Snooker with friends, who he considered family, that he met through his business.  He had the most enjoyment when he received his pilot license at the Warren Co. Airport where he was also a member of the Aviator and Navigators Club.

Graveside services will be 3 pm Tuesday, October 19, 2021, at Blues Hill cemetery with his son-in-law, Rev. James Burd officiating.  Pallbearers include Ricky, Jeremy and Nicholas Foster, Kyle McCabe, Ricky Ridley and Christian Brown.

Woodbury Funeral Home, 615-563-2311 or to leave condolences and memories for his family, please visit www.woodburyfuneralhome.net

Patricia Ann Wade, 74, passed away Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at her home in Woodbury.  She was born in Detroit, MI.

She is survived by her daughters, Julie (Anthony) Paros and Kimberly (Mike) Alcantara both of Cannon Co. and her grandchildren, Jake, Nick and Isabella.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Leonard & Dorothy Wolfe Gryzmala and her husband, J.D. Wade who recently passed in February.

A member of the Pleasant View Baptist church, Ms. Wade worked in the Steel Mill industry.  She enjoyed going to church and church activities, but she loved to spend time with her grandchildren most of all.

Visitation with her family will be from 1 pm until 2 pm Friday, October 15, 2021 with graveside services to follow at 2:30 pm at Gunter-Grizzle cemetery with Bro. Jeff Cripps officiating.  

Woodbury Funeral Home, 615-563-2311 or to leave condolences and memories for her family, please visit www.woodburyfuneralhome.net

Richard Carl Haley, 90, passed away Monday, October 11, 2021, at his home in Woodbury.  He was born in Rutherford Co. to his parents, the late J. Carl & Beatrice Anderson Haley.

 
He is survived by his children, Victor (Becky) Haley, Darrell Haley, Roger Haley and Anita (Ray) Patrick all of Woodbury; siblings, Hubert Clyde (Barbara) Haley, Shirley (Eddie) Nelson and Connie (Tommy) Mooneyham all of Cannon Co. 15 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews also survive.
 
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife who passed August 23, 2021, Sara Elizabeth Haley; son, Barry Haley; brother, John William Haley and several aunts, uncles and cousins.
 
He was saved as a teenager and became a member of the Dillon Street Church in 1956.  It was 1959 before he became regular in services and he soon became a bible teacher, song leader, Sunday school superintendent and in September of 1960 was ordained as a deacon.  Then in December of 1978 he was ordained as minister.  Richard went to pastor the Sink Creek Baptist church in Dekalb Co. in September 1983 and moved to pastor the Sunny Hills Baptist church in the fall of 1988 where he stayed until he retired in 2010.  He is still recognized as pastor emeritus of the Sunny Hills church.  He left the membership of Sunny Hills, April 2013, to return to the Dillon Street Baptist church as assistant pastor under Ray Patrick.

Funeral services will be 11 am Friday, October 15, 2021 in the Chapel of Woodbury Funeral Home with Bro. Ray Patrick officiating. Interment will follow in Riverside Gardens. His grandsons, the “Haley Boys”, will serve as pallbearers and his two granddaughters will serve as honorary pallbearers.
 
Visitation with his family will be Thursday, October 14, 2021 from 4 pm until 8 pm. 
 
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dillon St. Baptist Church Building Fund.
 

Woodbury Funeral Home, 615-563-2311 or to leave condolences and memories for his family, please visit www.woodburyfuneralhome.net