Rickey R. Kelly

LADSON, S.C. -- Rickey R. ''Rick'' Kelly, Master Sgt. USAF (Ret.), 42, died Thursday (May 21, 1998) at his residence. Born Dec. 17, 1955 in Kingsport, he was a graduate of Lynn View  High School and served in the Air Force for 21 years, retiring as a master sergeant. He was a Methodist.

 Surviving are his wife, Marcia Winkhart Kelly, Ladson, S.C.; mother, Danah Greer, Nevarre, Ohio; stepfather, Robert J. Greer, Nevarre, Ohio; father, William B. Kelly, Kingsport; son, Shawn M. Kelly, North Canton, Ohio; daughter, Megan R. Kelly, Ladson, S.C.; two brothers, William B. Kelly Jr., Kingsport and H. Glenn Kelly, Connellsville, Pa.; five sisters, Karen D. Baker, Kingsport, Beverly L. Kelly, Akron, Ohio, Felecia K. Saleswky, Houston, Texas, Kimberly D. Kendall, Canton, Ohio and Cassandra A. Smith, Spring, Texas. 

Services will be conducted at 3 p.m. today in the James A. Dyal Funeral Home Chapel in Summerville, S.C. Entombment will be at Dorchester Memory Gardens Mausoleum in Summerville with military rites.

M. Gregg (Egor) Egan, 41, Kingsport, died Friday evening (Aug. 21, 1998) at Holston Valley Medical Center after a lengthy illness. A native and lifelong resident of Kingsport, he attended  Lynn View  High School. He served with the U.S. Army during Desert Storm as a staff sergeant and was an active member of the Tennessee National Guard Unit HHT 2/278th ACR. He was an avid CB'er. He was a member of Good Shepherd Baptist Church. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Nell Starnes Egan, in 1994; his maternal grandparents, Bartley and Emma Taylor Starnes; and his paternal grandparents, Charles J. and Dovie Stone Egan Sr. Surviving are his father, Charles J. Egan Jr., Kingsport; four sisters, Mrs. Larry (Connie) Marsh, Mrs. John D. (Joy) Thomas, Mrs. Daniel (Tracy) Strickler, all of Kingsport, and Mrs. Roy (Dawn) Crowe, Gray; a brother, Gary L. Egan, Kingsport; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. 

Calling hours are from 6 to 8 p.m. today at Oak Hill Funeral Home. Services will be conducted at 8 p.m. today in the funeral home chapel with the Rev. Wrightly Salling and the Rev. Homer Roller officiating. 

Military graveside rites will be conducted at 11 a.m. Monday at Oak Hill Cemetery with American Legion Hammond Post No. 3 and the Tennessee National Guard Unit HHT 2/278th ARC.

Margaret Porter Trout, 52, Kingsport, died Friday (Jan. 8, 1999) at her home. 

Born in Smythe County, Va., she had lived in Kingsport most of her life. She attended  Lynn View  High School and was general manager of Mr. Gatti's. She was of the Baptist faith. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles J. and Katherine Porter; and a brother, Robert Porter. Surviving are her loving husband of 34 years, Richard D. Trout; a daughter and son-in-law, Francis Grace and Scott Davis, Las Vegas, Nevada; a son and daughter-in-law, Otis G. and Karen Trout, Church Hill; two granddaughters and two grandsons; a sister, Mrs. Kay (Bill) West, Kingsport; three brothers, George Porter, Conyers, Ga., Albert Porter, Glade Springs, Va., and Clyde Porter, Wilmington, N.C.; and several nieces and nephews. 

Calling hours are from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Oak Hill Funeral Home. A memorial service will be conducted at 6 p.m. Sunday in the funeral home chapel with the Rev. Richard Ratliff officiating.

Ronnie Lee Cassell, 44, E. Carters Valley Road, went to be with his Lord Thursday (June 17, 1999) at Holston Valley Medical Center. 

A lifelong resident of Kingsport, he attended  Lynn View  High School. He was employed by Rob Henderson Contractors. He was of the Baptist faith. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Granny Mamie Lawson Cassell. 

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Laurie (Renfro) Cassell, of the home; one daughter, Ms. Christy Leeann Cassell, of the home; one son, Justin Clint Cassell, of the home; his parents, Willie Hubert and Rita Mullins Cassell, Kingsport; one sister, Ms. Debbie Davis, Kingsport; two brothers, William Mark Cassell and Gregory Scott Cassell, both of Kingsport; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Roy E. and Betty J. Renfro, Kingsport; one niece, Johnna Megan Cassell; three nephews, Jordan Marcus Cassell, Alec Scott Cassell and Brady Christopher Cassell; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Calling hours are from 1 to 3 p.m. today at Carter-Trent Funeral Home, downtown Kingsport. Services will be conducted at 3 p.m. today in the funeral home chapel with the Rev. Olen Cassell and the Rev. Larry Morelock officiating. 

Burial will be in the Old Kingsport Cemetery. Pallbearers will be cousins. Honorary pallbearers will be Rick Bond, Turkey Blankenbeckler and Rob Henderson.

PALM BEACH, Fla. - James Daniel Overbay Jr., 60, died Saturday (May 18, 2002) in Palm Beach, Fla.

He was born in Sullivan County (Kingsport) and had lived in Florida for the last 30 years.

He attended Lynn Garden Elementary School and  Lynn View  High School.

Mr. Overbay served in the U.S. Army. He did volunteer work at the Salvation Army and was also a dance instructor at the Arthur Murray Dance Studio.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Daniel Overbay Sr. and Grace Painter Overbay; one brother, Robert Alan Overbay.

Surviving are his sister, Joann Overbay Smith and husband Allan, Kingsport; two brothers, Billy David Overbay and wife Sandra, Kingsport, and Junior Odis Overbay, Knoxville; one niece and two nephews.

Military graveside service will be conducted at 2 p.m. Friday at the VA National Cemetery in Mountain Home, Tenn., with Chaplain Joe W. Byrd and the American Legion Hammond Post No. 3 Color Guard officiating.

Pallbearers will be the American Legion Hammond Post No. 3 Color Guard.

Condolences may be sent to the family via e-mail to cartertrentfh@chartertn.net.

Carter-Trent Funeral Home, downtown Kingsport, is serving the family of Mr. Overbay.

KINGSPORT - Karen Faye Smith Kilgore, 51, passed away Sunday (July 20, 2003) at Holston Valley Medical Center after a brief illness and complications due to surgery.

She attended  Lynn View  High School and graduated from Ider High School, Ider, Ala. She also attended Lake Sumpter Community College, Leesburg, Fla., and graduated from Kingsport School of Practical Nursing. She was employed with The St. Paul Insurance Co. in Maitland, Fla., in the Case Management and Cost Containment Department.

She was of the Baptist faith.

She was preceded in death by her father, Floyd Eason Smith; ex-husband, John Kilgore; and her maternal grandparents.

Surviving are her mother, Bettie Jones Dolan; her daughters, Amy Nelson, Kingsport, and Tammy Nelson Miguel, Katy, Texas; grandchildren, Brandon, Christopher and Aaron Morrison and Alexandra Miguel; brothers, J. Cole Dolan and wife Connie, Kingsport, David Dolan and wife Tina, Fallston, Md., and Jason Smith, Philadelphia, Pa.; sister, Melody Dimitrious and husband Steve, Woodstock, Ga.; aunts, Virginia Kilgore and husband Fred and Shirley Kilgore and husband Elliott, both of Kingsport.

Services will be conducted at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Carter-Trent Funeral Home Chapel of Kingsport with Pastor David Salley officiating.

The family will receive friends immediately following the service and anytime at the residence, 1636 G St., and also at the aunt's residence, 205 Live Oak Drive, Kingsport.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Christine LaGuardia Phillips Cancer Center, c/o Holston Valley Medical Center, 103 W. Ravine St., Kingsport, Tenn. 37660; The Diabetes Association, Tennessee Affiliate, 4205 Hillsboro Road Suite 200, Nashville, Tenn. 37215; or the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 985, Kingsport, Tenn. 37662.

Condolences may be sent to the family via e-mail at cartertrentfh@chartertn.net.

JOHNSON CITY - Donald Edward "Don" Flanary, 70, entered eternal rest at 8:15 a.m. Friday (Oct. 3, 2003) at the James H. Quillen V.A. Medical Center.

Born in Wise County, Va. on Dec. 30, 1932, he had resided in this area since 1936.

Mr. Flanary attended Lynn View High School.

He was veteran of the Korean Conflict, serving most of the time in Seoul, Korea, while serving in the U.S. Army.

Mr. Flanary had been employed at Magnavox.

He was a volunteer at the James H. Quillen V.A. Medical Center for 16 years.

Mr. Flanary was of the Baptist faith.

The family would like to thank the James H. Quillen V.A. Medical Center, staff and friends, Carol Belcher and staff of East Lawn Funeral Home and Harold G. Childress.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kyle Edward and Helen Augusta Stidham Flanary; his grandparents, William T. and Maude Flanary and Lafayette and Frances Stidham.

Survivors include two brothers and sisters-in-law, Lawrence and Nell Rose Flanary of Church Hill, Tenn., and Bobby and Glenna Flanary of Kingsport; nieces and nephews, Theresa Barbour, Joy Livesay, Todd Flanary, a very special nephew who was very close and helpful with his uncle Don, Bobbie June Barnette; great nieces and nephews, Brian Barbour, Christopher Barbour, Jesse Gilreath, Jamie Gilreath, Kacie Flanary, Brooke Livesay and unborn nephew, Logan Barnette.

Calling hours will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at East Lawn Funeral Home and at other hours at the residences of the two brothers.

Graveside services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Monday in the Mountain Home National Cemetery, Mountain Home, Tenn. Rev. James A. Snapp and Pastor Gary Hall will officiate. Military graveside honors will be accorded by the Charles DeWitt Byrd Post No. 3382 VFW.

Please visit us at www.mem.com to place a condolence to the Flanary family.

KINGSPORT - Jeff E. "Ernie" Patterson Jr., 51, went to be with the Lord Thursday (Feb. 21, 2003) at his residence.

He was born in Sullivan County and was a graduate of Lynn View High School. He was employed with the Quebecor World Distribution Co., formally the Kingsport Press since 1969. He was a vice-president of the Local 299 United Steele Workers of America Union, a certified jeweler, and a well-known and gifted bluegrass musician who played the five-string banjo exceedingly well. He loved fishing and helping other people.

Mr. Patterson was a member of West View Missionary Baptist Church. He was a loving husband, father and son.

He was preceded in death by one sister, Shelia Shugart; and one brother, Shannon Rhea Patterson.

One brother, Kenneth Brent Patterson has been missing since 1986.

Surviving are his wife, Phyllis Carpenter Patterson, of the home; one son, Jed Thomas Patterson of Kingsport; one daughter, Darla Jean Patterson of Knoxville; parents, Jeff and Viola Patterson of Church Hill; one sister and brother-in-law, Debra and Craig Hoyme, Kingsport; and several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours are from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday at Oak Hill Funeral Home.

Services will be conducted at 7 p.m. Saturday in the funeral home chapel with the Rev. Lonnie Wooten officiating.

Graveside services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Sunday at Oak Hill Memorial Park.

Pallbearers are Henry Price, Josh Price, Ricky Bond, Corey Shugart, Jeff Shugart, Ricky Pafford, Michael Patterson and Randy Patterson.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice in memory of Mr. Patterson.

An online guest book may be signed at www.legacy.com.

The staff of Oak Hill Funeral Home is serving the Patterson family.

ROGERSVILLE - James (Dale) Rhoton, 52, of 308 Meadowview Road, passed away to meet the Lord Saturday evening (Feb. 19, 2005) at his residence following an extended illness.

He had spent the last 15 years in Hawkins County but was born in Kingsport where he had spent the majority of his life. He was a graduate of Lynn View High School.

Mr. Rhoton was a respiratory therapist working at Select Specialty Hospital in Bristol. James (Dale) was an avid outdoorsman and a very proud pappaw.

He was of the Baptist faith.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Virginia Light Rhoton; his grandparents, James L. Rhoton and Myrtle Rhoton, and Nathan Light and Phoeba Light.

Survivors include his loving wife of 15 years, Wanda Rhoton; his daughter, Stephanie Hoard, Rogersville; a son, Doug Fletcher Jr. and his wife Tonya, Mount Carmel; two grandchildren, Tanner Hoard and Gunnar Fletcher; his father, Luther G. Rhoton, Kingsport; two sisters, Kathy Davis and her husband Rod, Church Hill, Jan Webb and her husband Rev. Jerry, Church Hill; a brother, Allen Rhoton and his wife Kay, Kingsport; along with several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours are from 5 to 7 p.m. today at Carter-Trent Funeral Home of Church Hill or friends may also call anytime at the residence, 308 Meadowview Road, Rogersville.

Services will be conducted at 7 p.m. today in the funeral home chapel with Brother Mickey Rose officiating.

Music will be provided by the Living Waters Trio.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday at Bethel Church Cemetery in Surgoinsville.

Pallbearers will be Richard McFarland, Jason Rhoton, Chris Davis, Joshua Barton, Tracey Lee and Brian Hobson.

Condolences may be sent to the Rhoton family via e-mail at cartertrentfh@earthlink.net.

Carter-Trent Funeral Home of Church Hill is serving the Rhoton family.

KINGSPORT - William Franklin "Buddy" Ramey III, 44, passed away Monday (Feb. 21, 2005) at Holston Valley Medical Center.

He was a lifelong resident of Kingsport and attended Lynn View High School. Buddy was employed at Colliers Printing Company and was an active member of the Greater Tri-Cities Darting Association. He was a friend to all who knew him. Buddy was of the Baptist faith.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Franklin Ramey II and Ovalee Hensley Ramey; and grandmother, Mary Bishop.

Surviving are his sister, Anita Hensley and husband, Allen, Kingsport; brothers, Robert Eagan and wife, Christie, Kingsport, and Woody Davis, Church Hill; also several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Calling hours are from 5 to 7 p.m. today at Carter-Trent Funeral Home, downtown Kingsport.

Services will be conducted today in the funeral home chapel at 7 p.m. with Rev. Garland Tipton officiating.

Condolences may be sent to the family via e-mail at cartertrentfh@earthlink.net.

Carter-Trent Funeral Home, downtown Kingsport, is in charge.

KINGSPORT - Steven Joe Nickels Sr., 45, of Gravely Road, went to be with the Lord early Sunday morning (July 17, 2005) at Indian Path Medical Center from injuries sustained in an accident over 25 years ago.

He was a lifelong resident of Sullivan County (Kingsport), and attended Lynn View High School. He was previously employed at Nickels Floor Covering, having worked for his late father, Henry Gus Nickels, and late uncle, Joe P. Nickels.

He was a member of Gravely Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his father, Henry Gus Nickels; one sister, Shelby Sue Nickels; maternal grandparents, Henry C. and Earnestine Salyer; paternal grandparents, Henry Gus Nickels Sr. and Polly Nickels.

Survivors include his mother, Etta Sue Salyer Nickels, Kingsport; one son, Steven Joe Nickels Jr., of Virginia; one sister, Angela Faith Bryant and husband Stephen, of Church Hill; one brother, Lloyd Gus Nickels and wife Pat, of Morristown; a close and personal friend and caregiver, Mary Price of Rogersville; several cousins.

Friends may call anytime at the residence, 540 Gravely Road (247-2341).

Condolences may be sent to the family via e-mail at cartertrentfh@earthlink.net.

Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later.

Carter-Trent Funeral Home, downtown Kingsport, is serving the Nickels family.

DENVER, Colo. - Larry Edward Little, 59, formerly of Kingsport, passed away Sunday (Nov. 20, 2005) in Bristol, Tenn.

He attended Lynn View High School and was a member of Lynn Garden Baptist Church.

His parents, Annahlynn and Clarence L. Little preceded him in death.

Surviving are a daughter, Cana Jo Little, Denver, Colo.; three sisters, Norma Bevins, Kingsport, Barbara Pensiero, Denver, Colo., and Juanita Hickman, Kingsport; one brother, Gary Little, Chattanooga, Tenn.; several nieces and nephews.

Military graveside rites will be conducted at 1 p.m. today at Mountain Home National Cemetery by Charles DeWitt Byrd Post #3382 of the VFW.

Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

KINGSPORT - Connie A. Guy, 58, 313 Lynn Avenue, Kingsport, died at 7 p.m. Tuesday (May 11, 2004) at Indian Path Medical Center.

She was born in Kingsport, where she had lived her entire life, and attended Lynn View High School. She was a homemaker.

Connie was a member of Ketron Memorial United Methodist Church.

Her parents, Charles and Nola Mae Johnson Sarber preceded her in death.

Surviving are her husband, Tommy Lee Guy, Kingsport; two sons, Terry Guy, Kingsport, and Barry Guy, Abingdon, Va.; five grandchildren, Dacoda and Brianna Guy, J.J. and Ciara Jordon, and Megan Renee Guy; and one sister, Phyllis Seymour.

Calling hours are from 6 to 8 p.m. today and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Homes, downtown Kingsport.

Graveside services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Saturday at Old Kingsport Presbyterian Church Cemetery with Pastor Billy Gillespie officiating.

Pallbearers will be Terry Guy, Barry Guy, Derek Seymour, Darius Seymour, Robbe Mullins, and Alex Fritz.

Memorials may be given to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 985, Kingsport, TN 37662 or the American Diabetics Association, P.O. Box 3952, Kingsport, TN 37664.

GATE CITY, Va. - Deborah Kaye Price, 54, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday (July 11, 2006) at Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center after an extended illness.

She was born on Oct. 14, 1951 in Rogersville, but spent most of her life in Kingsport. She graduated from Lynn View High School. Debby attended Carson Newman College then she received her Bachelor's Degree from East Tennessee State University. She most recently was pursing her Master's Degree in public administration. Debby was a former employee of the Gate City Funeral Home. She was most recently employed at Kingsport Tomorrow as a bookkeeper.

She was of the Christian faith and attended West View Baptist Church and First Apostolic Christian Church.

She was preceded in death by her father, Donal McKay Price; grandparents, George and Hallie Price and Henry Wise and Randa Wise Buchanan; step-grandfather, H.W. Buchanan; and very special cousin, Margaret Ferrell.

Surviving are her daughter, Sheramy Sunshine Calton; one very special granddaughter, Kayla Tristan Calton; mother, Nettie Wise Price, all of Kingsport; brothers, Dannie M. Price and wife, Darlene, Brandon, Wis., and Jeffery D. Price and wife, Connie, Kingsport; special great-aunt, Edna Flack, Southfield, Mich.; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and special friends, Karen Sprinkle, John and Linda Lounsbury, Terri Merryman, Romona Curtis and Peggy Ball.

Calling hours will be from 6 to 8 p.m. today at Gate City Funeral Home and anytime at the residence.

Services will be at 11 a.m. Friday in the Gene Falin Memorial Chapel of the funeral home with Pastor Tommy Benton and Pastor Mike Stout officiating.

Music will be provided by The Bradley Family and granddaughter, Kayla Calton.

Burial will follow the service at Kleppers Cemetery, Rogersville.

Pallbearers will be family and friends.

Honorary pallbearers will be James Shackleford, Scott Bradley and Allen Bradley.

The family would like to express special thanks and recognition to Mr. John P. Chiles, Mr. Carl W. Eilers, Dr. L. Nicole Moon, Dr. Goh, the staff of both Indian Path Medical Center and Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center and Wellmont Hospice for their wonderful care of Ms. Debby Price.

Memorial contributions may be sent in honor of Ms. Debby Price to 217 Edward St., Kingsport, TN 37665, to set up a college fund for her very special granddaughter, Kayla Calton.

Online condolences may be made in care of the Price family to gcfh@earthlink.net.

KINGSPORT - Betty Jean Hamilton Skeen, 59, Kingsport, left this world unexpectedly on Monday (Jan. 1, 2007) to join her Lord and Savior and her loving parents, Ernest and Juanita "Daisy" Hamilton, in Heaven.

She was born May 9, 1947 in Coeburn, Wise County, Va.

She was a loving and caring mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, niece, and a wonderful friend to all who knew her.

She attended Nickelsville High School in Nickelsville, Va., and Lynn View High School in Kingsport. She was employed at Kingsport Press from the mid 70's until 1987, after which she worked for S.P.S. Payment Systems in Gray, Heilieg Myers Furniture Kingsport, Grand Home Furnishings, Kingsport, and last working for Tennessee Title Loans, Kingsport. She was a member of Fraternal Order Eagles Auxiliary #3141, Kingsport Tenn.

Betty's first love was her family and friends, but to anyone who knew her, reading was a close second. She could always be found with a book in hand or close by. She passed this love of books on to her girls, who will always remember her for their love of reading.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Ernest Jr. "Bug"; her paternal grandparents, Rufus and Rachael Hamilton; her maternal grandparents, Elizabeth and Wilbur Hall; and several aunts and uncles.

She is survived by her daughters, Robin Price and husband David, Becky Mitchell and husband David; grandchildren, Ryan Burke, David Mitchell, Lindy Jean Ferguson, Zachary Mitchell, Jordy Mitchell, Kenzie Thomas; great-grandson, Brennan Collie; one sister, Linda Kay Culbertson and husband Butch; nephew, Rusty Culbertson and wife, Melissa; great-nieces, Cortney and Chloe Culbertson; aunts, Florence Click, Mt. Carmel, Liz Beringer and husband Bernie, Gray, and Vonda Zieman, Lexington, Ky., Elizabeth Stidham, of Florida; uncle, Richard Hamilton, St. Paul, Va.; several cousins, and numerous friends.

Family and friends may call anytime at the home of her sister, Linda Culbertson, 2009 Harrison Ave., Kingsport.

A celebration of her life's journey will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday at Carter-Trent Funeral Home, Kingsport.

Online condolences my be sent to the family at www.cartertrent.com.

Carter-Trent Funeral Home of Kingsport is serving the family.

CHURCH HILL - Jerry Sutherland, 63, Church Hill, passed away unexpectedly Thursday (June 14, 2007).

He was born in Scott County, Va., but had resided in Kingsport most of his life. Jerry attended Lynn View High School and was a former employee of AFG Industries.

Jerry was a beloved husband, father, son, and brother.

His parents, W.C. and Narrah Sutherland preceded him in death.

Surviving are the mother of his children, Peggy Sutherland, Kingsport; two sons, David Sutherland, Fall Branch and Michael Sutherland and wife Jennifer, Kingsport; one granddaughter, Michaela Sutherland; two sisters, Bertha Mae Cox, Morristown, Tenn. and Jo Gilliam, Kingsport; one brother, Larry Sutherland, Kingsport; several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport.

Burial will be at 11 a.m. Sunday at Oak Hill Memorial Park.

Please visit www.hamlettdobson.com.

Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Homes, Kingsport is serving the family of Jerry Sutherland.

KNOXVILLE — Bobby Lynn Starnes, 53, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday (Oct. 9, 2007) at the University of Tennessee Medical Center.

He was born in Sullivan County and attended Lynn View High School. He lived in Knoxville for the past five years and was self-employed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Callie Kerns Starnes; brother, Ed Starnes; sister, Nancy Davis.

He is survived by the mother of his children, Donna Kay Dingus Starnes, Kingsport; daughter, Natasha Goodwin and husband, Brad, Kingsport; son, Chris Starnes and wife, Amy, Martinsville, Va.; grandchildren, Carriella Starnes, Evan Starnes, Trey Jarrell, Landon Goodwin, Alex Goodwin; sisters, Judy Jones and Betty Tribble, both of Kingsport; brothers, Bill Starnes, Church Hill and Rick Starnes, Kingsport; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Calling hours are from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Carter-Trent Funeral Home, Kingsport.

Friends and family may call anytime at Natasha Goodwin's residence (daughter of Bobby Starnes).

Funeral service will be conducted at 12 noon Friday in the funeral home chapel with Pastor John Owston officiating.

Burial will follow at Oak Hill Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be Robbie Ramsey, Todd Freeman, Todd Davis, Jeff Jones, Bill Starnes Jr., and Ron Smith.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.cartertrent.com.

Carter-Trent Funeral Home, Kingsport is serving the Starnes family.

KINGSPORT — Eugene Cole, Jr., 44, Midfield area of Kingsport, passed away at 2:21 p.m. Monday (Oct. 15, 2007) at Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center following complications from a heart attack on Monday (Oct. 8, 2007).

Junior was born in Kingsport and attended Lynn View High School. He was a mechanic working at Midfield Garage where he worked until his illness. He was an avid NASCAR fan.

Preceding him in death were his infant sister, Carrie Cole; paternal grandparents, Daisey Crawford and Gatha Cole; maternal grandparents, Rosa Lee Hamilton and Hatcher Gilbert.

Surviving are his wife of 24 years, Missy Head Cole, of the home; son, Jonathon Cole, of the home; parents, Gene and Barbara Cole, Kingsport; sister, Debbie Holt and husband, Dudley, Kingsport; nephew, Jacob Holt; nieces, Amanda and Emily Holt; aunt, Carrie Simpson; uncles, James and Wayne Cole of Church Hill; mother-in-law, Lois Head, Kingsport; and his special companion, Odie, his pug.

Eugene was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by his friends and especially by Amanda and Brandy.

The family extends a special thanks to the CCU nurses, Dr. Vaughn and Dr. Kreal.

Calling hours are from 5 to 8 p.m. today at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home Kingsport.

Services will be conducted at 8 p.m. today at the funeral home with Brother John Boggs officiating.

Graveside services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday at Oak Hill Memorial Park.

Pallbearers are Martin Johnson, Jacob Holt, Justin Guy, Timmy White, Tyler Pendergrass, Bobby Eagan and Jr. Welch.

Flowers are acceptable or memorial contributions may be made to the Shriner’s Childrens Hospital, 950 West Faris Road, Greenville, SC 29605-4277.

Please visit www.hamlettdobson.com

Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home Kingsport is serving the Cole family.

KINGSPORT — Dennis Eugene Minton, 57, of Kingsport, passed away unexpectedly on Monday (Feb. 4, 2008) at Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center due to an apparent heart attack.

He was a lifelong resident of Kingsport and a graduate of Lynn View High School. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War serving with the U.S. Marine Corps in the 11th Marine Regiment 1st Marine Division from 1970-1973. He was also a former member of the Virginia National Guard.

Dennis was a coach and official for over 10 years with the Kingsport Boys Club where he received “Coach of the Year” numerous times. He also was a coach for several years with the Kingsport City Parks & Recreation Department. Dennis was a former member of the TSSAA.

For the past 20 years, he was well-known for officiating baseball, basketball and football of all ages in the area. Dennis was instrumental in teaching fundamentals to young athletes during the 1970s and 1980s helping them become some of the best athletes at the next level.

He was preceded in death by his father, Rev. Eugene E. (Edward) Minton.

Dennis Minton is survived by his children, Clay Minton and his wife, Kim (Church Hill), Angie Meade and her husband, Steve (Kingsport), Storm Reynolds (of the home); his grandchildren, Bryna Minton and Bradin Minton; his mother, Hazel Minton Caywood, Abingdon, Va.; his sister, Diann M. Hartgrove (Kingsport); a nephew, Will Hartgrove (Kingsport); along with a host of friends.

A celebration of his life will be conducted on Friday at 5 p.m. with a visitation to follow at Carter-Trent Funeral Home of Kingsport with Pastor Jonathan Lovelace, the Rev. Jamey Reynolds and the American Legion Hammond Post No. 3/265 officiating.

Friends may also call anytime at the residence of the son, Clay Minton, 140 Kings Mountain Road in Church Hill.

The family request in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to his son, Storm Reynolds, 140 Kings Mountain Road, Church Hill, Tenn., 37642.

You can send an online condolence to the family by visiting www.cartertrent.com.

KINGSPORT — Darlene Coates, 59, Kingsport, went to be with the Lord Saturday (May 24, 2008) at Wellmont Holston Valley Hospital and Medical Center surrounded by family and friends.

Darlene was born Oct. 31, 1948 and had resided in Kingsport her entire life. She was a graduate of Lynn View High School. She was previously employed at Prime Sirloin Steakhouse. She retired due to poor health from Holston Valley Hospital’s Dietary Department.

Darlene was a member of State Line Baptist Church. She was an avid gospel music fan, animal lover, book collector, and an avid NASCAR fan. She especially loved to hear the singing of her pastor and his wife, Boyd and Sharon Holder, Gail Taylor, and the quartet from her church.

She was preceded in death by her father, Malcolm Coates; sister, Betty Surcey; brother, Tommy Coates; grandparents, Blaine and Dora Arnold Coates and Sam and Allie Palmer; sister-in-law, Marie Coates; and brother-in-law, Frank Surcey.

Surviving are mother, Irene Coates; companion of seventeen years, Kenny Starnes; sister, Carol Crawford and husband, Joe; brother, Bill Coates; special niece, Sandra Starnes and her husband, Joe; nieces, Tammy Phillips, Robin Conn, Teresa Patterson and Sonja Dingus; nephews, Tim Crawford and Steve Coates; many great nieces and nephews; and special friends, Jim and Jenny Fletcher and Kathy Butler.

The family will receive friends today from 5 to 7 p.m. at State Line Baptist Church, or anytime at the home of Darlene, or at the home of Carol Crawford.

Services will be at 7 p.m. with Pastor Boyd Holder and Jimmy Fletcher officiating.

Music will be provided by Pastor Boyd and Sharon Holder and Gail Taylor.

Graveside services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Oak Hill Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be Joe Starnes, Tim Crawford, Joe Crawford, Joel Phillips, Andrew Conn, and Steven Coates.

Special thanks to Kenny Starnes and Sandra and Joe Starnes for all the years of support given to Darlene during her time of declining health.

Memorial contributions may be given to State Line Baptist Church, c/o Building Fund, 1905 Flanders Street, Kingsport, Tenn. 37665.

Please visit www.hamlettdobson.com for on-line condolences.

Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Homes, Kingsport, is serving the family of Darlene Coates.

BRISTOL, Va. — Robin Rhea Adams, 53, died Monday (Dec. 22, 2008) at her residence in Bristol, Va.

She spent much of her childhood in Miami, Fla., and moved to Kingsport in her early teens. She graduated from Lynn View High School in Kingsport and after earning her license in practical nursing, worked in Knoxville, Tenn. After returning to live in Bristol, she attended Fellowship Chapel in Bristol, Va. She loved the mountains, caring for others, and especially children. Her sweet smile and caring manner will be missed by all.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Judy Dickenson, whom she loved and missed dearly; step-father, James Dickenson; father, Paul Edwards; and a granddaughter, Makayla Hancock; brother, Johnathan Edwards.

Survivors include her husband, James Adams of Bristol, Va.; son, Joshua Hancock and wife, Monica, Knoxville; stepsons Michael Adams of Nashville and James Ray Adams of Bristol, Va.; grandchildren, Aaron, Jace, Gracie, Shane, Tory and Aaiden; sister, Lisa Green and husband, David and sons, John and Jimmy of Kingsport; step-mother, Agnes Edwards, Ohio; brothers, Tim Edwards of Knox- ville, Michael Edwards of Venice, Fla., Randall Edwards and wife, Nancy and their children, Steve, James and Jenny of Columbia, S.C., and Gregory Edwards and wife, Dorothy and daughters, Megan and Julie of Jonesborough; sisters-in-law, Clara Leonard and husband, Greg and daughter Whitney of Bristol, Tenn., and Sharon Adams, and her sons, Trey and Alan Helbert of Asheville, N.C.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 6:45 p.m. Monday in the Paul Cook Memorial Chapel at Oakley-Cook Funeral Home.

Service will follow at 7 p.m. with the Rev. Bobby Branch and the Rev. Andrew Sensabaugh officiating.

The committal service and interment will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Mountain Home National Cemetery in Johnson City.

Honorary pallbearers will be El Hurley, Warren Crusenberry, Sam Bloomburg, John Shopia, Don Montieth, Marvin Helbert, Bill Dorton, Bill Miller, David Green, Richard Schellhase and Nate Montieth.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family and viewed by visiting www.oakley- cook.com.

Mrs. Adams and her family are in the care of Oakley-Cook Funeral Home.

KINGSPORT — Edna Kathleen “Kitty” Sproles, 76, of Kingsport, went home to be with her Heavenly Father Saturday (Jan. 10, 2009) at Vanderbilt University Hospital in Nashville, Tenn.

Kitty passed peacefully after complications from aneurysm surgery. Almost all of Kitty’s immediate family, including her two sons and wives, her two sisters, her youngest brother and several grandchildren were at her side as God’s angels took her home. She took the last breath of her dress rehearsal here on earth, and slipped into her eternal home as her beloved pastor and friend, Wayne Baker, prayed over her with the family.

Kitty was born Dec. 28, 1932, in Freemont, Va., to the late Charles and Beulah Hughes, but lived most of her life in Kingsport. She was the second of five children.

Kitty was preceded in death by her loving parents and her husband, Bill Sproles . . . the love of her life. For many years, she enjoyed traveling with Bill and the Sproles Family Singers as they sung at churches all over the southeast. Her love for gospel music continued throughout her life as she enjoyed listening to the Sproles Family’s old albums, the Gaither Music series and singing with the Pleasant View Baptist Church choir.

Surviving Kitty are her two loving sons and their wives, Steve and Sheila Sproles of Kingsport, Tim and Cindy Sproles of Kingsport; two sisters, Reta Hill and husband, Carl of Kingsport, Patty Flanary and husband, Leon of Kingsport; two brothers, Don Hughes of Kingsport, Bud Hughes of Kingsport; nine grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Kitty was a faithful member at Pleasant View Baptist Church in Kingsport for more than 60 years. Besides God and her family, Kitty loved her church more than anything in this world. She taught Sunday School for more than 30 years, was a faithful member of the choir, and was an active member of the church circle. In her latter years, she started a ministry for widows called Widows Day Out. Kitty had a servant’s heart and used that in her lifelong ministry of serving God and helping those in need. She has numerous scrapbooks that reflect her life and ministry.

Kitty attended Sullivan High School and Lynn View High School after it was built. She spent more than 40 years working as a dental assistant and later a dental office manager. She worked for more than 10 years for Dr. Lavern Reedy, and then spent more than 25 years working for Dr. Rusty Barnes. Rusty, his family and staff, were mom’s second family during those years. She was known as “Miss Kitty” by Dr. Barnes’ staff and the many patients that she assisted over the years.

The family will receive friends at Pleasant View Baptist Church today from 4 to 7 p.m. A funeral service and celebration of mom’s ultimate healing will follow at 7 p.m. The service will be conducted by Kitty’s pastor and friend, Wayne Baker.

Graveside services will be conducted at East Lawn Cemetery on Wednesday at 11 a.m. Family and friends are asked to meet at the cemetery at 10:45 a.m.

Honorary pallbearers will be Trevor Sproles, Justin Sproles, Cameron Smothers, Chase Smothers, Chad King, Stephen Plemons, Spencer Davis, Krey Flanary and Kevin Flanary.

The family would like to issue a sincere thanks for all the prayers and support from Kitty’s church family at Pleasant View Baptist Church, her sons churches, Celebration Church and Belvue Christian Church and all other local churches who have prayed for Kitty and her family. Heartfelt and special thanks go out to all of her doctors and nurses at Vanderbilt University Hospital for all their efforts.

You may sign the guest register book by visiting www.eastlawnkingsport.com.

East Lawn Funeral Home is serving the family of Kitty Sproles.

CHESAPEAKE, Va. — Richard Wayne Wheat, 54, passed away June 8, 2009 at Chesapeake General Hospital.

Born in Sullivan County, Richard was saved at an early age. He graduated from Lynn View High School and attended ETSU for two years. He served in the U.S. Navy for 22 years.

He was the owner of Miss Kitty’s Village Inn in Virginia Beach.

He was preceded in death by his father, William Paul Wheat; grandparents, Joel and Lois Wheat, W.K. Lane and Gladys Lane.

He is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Wheat of Chesapeake and his mother, Nell Wheat; children, Tracy Rhodes and husband, Chris, Malinda Hinkle and husband, Bruce, Candace Wheat, all of Tennessee and Tony Wheat and wife, Heather of Texas, Tracie McCoy and Mike Hinkle, Stephanie Cloutier and husband, Chad of Chesapeake; brothers, David and wife, Linda Wheat, Steven Wheat and a special friend, Tonya Cox; 10 grandchildren, special friends Randy and Jeri Estenson of Virginia Beach and a host of family and friends. He will be greatly missed.

A service will be held at 10 a.m. today at Altmeyer Funeral Home, 5792 Greenwich Road, Virginia Beach, Va.

Condolences may be made to the family at www.altmeyer.com.

Courtesy of Carter-Trent Funeral Home, Kingsport.

CHURCH HILL — Roger Gale Frye Sr., 64, of Church Hill, passed away on Tuesday (June 23, 2009) at this home following a brief illness.

He was born and raised in Kingsport, attended Lynn View High School, and received a Bachelor’s Degree from East Tennessee State University. He served a tour of duty in Vietnam with the 3rd Marine Division and was a proud veteran. He worked construction for Fluor Daniels, later working as an engineer for Holston Defense.

Roger had a love for racing and was the best Ford engine builder in this area. He was crew chief for Harold Racing # 09. His motto was “Never Give Up.” He was a kind and caring person who touched the lives of all that knew him.

He was preceded in death by parents, Charles and Kathleen Leedy Frye; wife, Phylis Wallen Frye; sisters, Phylis Taylor, Lois Jennings and Helen Little; and a brother, Darrell Frye, Sr.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia Frye of the home; a son, Roger Frye, Jr. and wife, Beth of Virginia Beach, Va.; a daughter, Tammy Butler and husband, Eddie, of Elizabethton; stepsons, Dempsey Harold Jr. and wife, Monikka of Church Hill and Thomas Harold, of the home; a stepdaughter, Anna Brown and husband, Aaron of Church Hill; grandchildren, Luke and Hailey Frye and Benji Butler; stepgrandchildren, Peyton Harold and Ryder and Sadie Brown; a brother, Harold Frye of Kingsport; sisters, Shirley Coffey and husband, Elvin of Kingsport, Betty Leonard and husband, Robbie of White Plains, Md.; brother-in-law, Don Little; several additional brothers and sisters-in-law; several nieces and nephews and many special friends.

The family will receive friends from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday at Carter-Trent Funeral Home, 520 Watauga St., Kingsport.

Funeral services will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Friday in the funeral home chapel with the Rev. Jack Edwards, officiating.

Military graveside services will follow at Mountain Home National Cemetery, Mountain Home, Tenn., conducted by the Hawkins County Honor Guard and the Tennessee National Guard.

Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Diane Nunley, the staff of the Quillen VA Medical Center, and Smokey Mountain Hospice.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www. cartertrent.com

Carter-Trent Funeral Home, downtown Kingsport is serving the Frye family.

KINGSPORT — Charles Dean Dalton, 71, of Kingsport, went to be with the Lord on Sunday (July 5, 2009) at Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center.

He was a lifelong resident of Sullivan County. He attended Bell Ridge Elementary and Lynn View High School and was of the Baptist faith. Charles was the retired owner/operator of the Trade Winds Motel in Weber City, Va. He was also a veteran of the U.S. Army.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Matthew and Ida Pearl Childress Dalton; an infant sister, Pauline; and a brother, Otis D. Dalton.

Survivors include his wife of over 49 years, Lorene Penley Dalton of the home; his son, Charles Kelly “Chuck” Dalton and wife, Carol of Blountville; his granddaughter, Caitlin Priscilla Dalton of Blountville; two brothers, Billy R. Dalton and wife, Thelma of Blountville and Lowell T. Dalton of Johnson City; along with four nieces and seven nephews.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Carter-Trent Funeral Home, 520 Watauga St., Kingsport, or anytime at the home of his son, Charles.

Military graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday at East Lawn Memorial Park, Kingsport, conducted by the VFW Post 3382 and the Tennessee National Guard with Dr. Ed Dillow, officiating. Family and friends are asked to meet at the cemetery by 12:55 p.m.

Condolences may be sent to the family be visiting www.cartertrent.com.

Carter-Trent Funeral Home, downtown Kingsport is serving the Dalton family.

Mr. Hugh Mason Hayes, 74, died on November 5, 2009 at James H. Quillen VA Medical Center, Mountain Home.  A native of Tom's Creek, VA, he was a son of the late T. R. & Velva Evans Hayes.

Mr. Hayes proudly served his country in the US Army during the Korean Conflict.  He was a graduate of Lynn View High School in Kingsport.  Mr. Hayes was a District Manager with McKee Bakery for several years, retiring in 1990.  Prior to this, he worked for Galbreath Bread Company in Kingsport. His family fondly recalls enjoying the "benefits" of their dad's job.  He was of the Baptist faith.  An avid vegetable gardener who enjoyed sharing his produce with others, he often got his family's assistance in growing green beans, cucumbers, and tomatoes.  Mr. Hayes enjoyed walking, drinking coffee, and listening to Country music.  Having a big heart, his family remembers his generosity and compassion for people as well as his take-charge leadership qualities.

Survivors include a daughter, Tamera H. "Tammy" Bulla and a son, Timothy M. "Tim" Hayes, both of Johnson City; a sister, Jackie Wilson, The Villages, FL; two grandchildren, Desiree Bulla, Johnson City and Terry Bulla, Austin, TX; three great-grandchildren, Shannon Adriana Hale, Deja Nicole Hale, & Mason Wade Bulla. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Daisy Ann Smith Hayes; two brothers, Kenneth D. "Red" & Donald Hayes; and a brother-in-law, William Wilson.

A Celebration of Life service for Mason Hayes will be held at 3:00 PM, Sunday, November 8 at Tetrick Funeral Services, Johnson City with Rev. Michael Lester officiating. A Committal service with military honors will follow in Washington County Memory Gardens. Pallbearers will be selected from family & friends. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until the service hour.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family and viewed online at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Arrangements for the Hayes family are in the care of Tetrick Funeral & Cremation Services, 3001 Peoples St., Johnson City, 610-7171