Obituaries

Michael James Lavergne

Sep 12, 2025

Michael James Lavergne, age 53 of Athens, passed away Friday afternoon surrounded by his family.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, Gerald and Betty Lavergne.

Michael is survived by his sister, Jennifer Thurman (Tracy); Niece, Abby Wade (Kelsey); Several Aunts; one Uncle; and cousins.

He enjoyed spending time outdoors, loved working with his hands, loved gospel music and going to church...

Jimmy R Nance

Sep 4, 2025

Jimmy "Ruel" Nance, a loving father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025, in Knoxville, Tennessee, at the age of 79. Born on August 11, 1946, in Big Springs, Tennessee, Ruel dedicated 32 years of his life to his career as a machinist at TVA.

Ruel was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Anna Mae Sewell Nance,...

Robert "Bob" Carlson

Aug 30, 2025

Robert John “Bob” Carlson, age 87 of Athens TN was welcomed into the presence of his Lord and Savior on August 30, 2025, peacefully at his home surrounded by family. Bob was born on May 16, 1938, to the late John and Berce Carlson in Minneapolis MN. He was one of three children. Survived by his brother Richard (Jennifer) Carlson...

William Bill Millard

Aug 27, 2025

In Loving Memory of Bill Millard Born September 4, 1941 – Died August 27, 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Bill Millard, aged 83, who departed this life peacefully. Bill was a proud veteran of the Armed Forces, having served his country with honor during the Vietnam War. His dedication to his nation was only...

Ronnie Gene Tudor, Sr

Aug 20, 2025

Ronnie Gene Tudor, Sr (Radiator Man), 55, of Niota, TN passed away on August 20th, 2025, at Sweetwater Hospital surrounded by his family.

Ronnie was a well-known mechanic at Cobb’s Radiator for many years before going to work at the Tri County Center in Athens. He loved to work on cars, build trucks and go carts and be outside in the...

Richard Patterson

Aug 17, 2025

Richard "Pastor Rick" Patterson, a loving husband, devoted father, grandfather and great grandfather passed away on Sunday morning, August 17, 2025, surrounded by his family. He crossed life's final finish line with grace, leaving behind a legacy built on faith, love, and cherished memories.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2...

Donald Humble

Aug 15, 2025

Donald Humble, passed away peacefully at home on August 15, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on February 27, 1947, in Boston, Massachusetts.

Donald was a Vietnam Veteran and took immense pride in his Leatherwork as Master Po with over 30 years of experience. 

Donald leaves behind his loving wife of 56 years, Paula Humble, his children, Sean (Wendy) Humble, Matthew...

Venyard Freeman

Jul 26, 2025

Venyard Freeman, of Athens, TN born on April 13, 1941, in Tellico Plains, left this world on July 26, 2025. He was cherished by his family. He had a deep love for the great outdoors and found joy spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was the greatest dad ever.

Venyard is survived by his Life Partner, Mary Anne...

Gene Kitchens

Jul 11, 2025

Gene Kitchens, 71, of Riceville, passed away on Friday, July 11, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Born December 6, 1953, to Marion and Ora Kitchens. Gene enjoyed watching westerns and spending time with his grandchildren.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Ora; wife, Bernadine; and grandson, Cody Witt.

Gene is survived by sons, Adam (Sheila) Witt, Gene (Stephanie) Kitchens;...

Chucky Charles Hammontree

Jul 11, 2025

Chucky Charles Hammontree, 73, of Greenback, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, July 11, 2025.

Born October 16, 1951, Chucky had a passion for the outdoors and loved to hunt and fish.

Chucky was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Betty Hammontree; brother, Randy Hammontree; brother-in-law, Bill Raper.

Chucky is survived by his wife of 50 years, Johnnie...

Scott Burris

Jul 8, 2025

Scott M. Burris of Madisonville passed away on July 9, 2025.

Scott was preceded in death by his parents Clyde and Imogene Burris; sister, Sheila Johnson; and brother, Billy Burris. Scott's favorite pastime was working on cars.

Survivors include his daughter, Heather Burris Tuttle; son, Kevin Burris; sisters Shirley (Larry) Walker and Lisa (Tony) Frank, many grandchildren, uncles, and friends.

Gleda A. Mattson

Jun 20, 2025

Gleda A. Mattson, passed away at her residence on June 20, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on July 16, 1937, in Athens, Tennessee, Gleda's life was characterized by her unwavering love for her family.

Preceded in death by her parents, C.E. and Eula Keaton and brother, Gary Keaton.

Gleda is survived by her two sons, Richard and Harold Mattson; grandchildren...

Michael Wayne Ratledge

May 29, 2025

Michael Wayne Ratledge, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home on May 29, 2025, at the age of 68. Born on August 11, 1956, in Athens, Michael was deeply rooted in his community and dedicated to both his family and his work.

Michael was a longtime employee of Heil Trailer and Maxwell Industries, where he poured his...

Patrick Gruetzmacher

May 14, 2025

Patrick Gruetzmacher, a loving husband, dedicated father, and cherished friend, passed away on May 14, 2025, at the age of 59. Born on October 14, 1965, in Rockford, Illinois, Patrick was a proud graduate of Bishop Moore Catholic High School in Orlando, Florida, in 1983.

Patrick embarked on a rewarding career in sales, demonstrating unparalleled dedication and passion in his work....

Marco Vasquez

Apr 28, 2025

Marco Tulio Vasquez, a devoted Machinist and beloved family man, was born on June 5, 1949, in Colombia. He passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025, in Athens, Tennessee, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, loyalty, and love.

Throughout his life, Marco took immense pride in his work as a machinist, channeling his dedication into every task he undertook. A...

Ruth Ellen Prock

Apr 12, 2025

Ruth Ellen Prock, age 73 of Etowah, peacefully passed away April 12, surrounded by her family. She was born June 12, 1951, in Bethesda Maryland to Marjorie and George Bates.

Ruth is proceeded in death by her husband Johnny Prock.

She is survived by her children, John Butler, Margi Utlaut and Dixie Abbitt.

Judy Bortle

Mar 31, 2025

Judy Sharon Bortle, age 77 of Athens passed, passed away Monday March 31,2025 surrounded by her family.

Judy moved to Houston, Texas as a young girl and became a true Texan at heart.  She loved horses and was a member of Surburban Ranches Riding Club for over 40 years.  Judy made many life long friends there and...

Anthony Renna

Mar 10, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Anthony Renna who was 79 when he passed away peacefully at home on March,10 2025. He was well loved by his family, friends, and community. In his last few years, he attended Jacobs Tent where he truly flourished in his relationship with Yeshua Messiah (Jesus Christ). He leaves behind his wife...

Jim Zane

Mar 7, 2025

Jim Zane, 91 of Athens passed away Friday March 7, 2025.

He never met a stranger. Jim was always willing to pitch in and give others a helping hand. He had a tremendous sense of humor. As a young man Jim gladly served his country in the Marines during the Korean war. Jim was also an amazing...

John Robinson

Mar 1, 2025

An obituary is not available at this time for John Robinson. We welcome you to provide your thoughts and memories on our Tribute Wall.