Class Notes

Rev. Kenneth Victor Anderson, 93, of Saginaw, MI, died prematurely on Thursday, March 29th after a short illness while warmly attended by family and friends. According to Ken's wishes, a cremation has taken place. Ken was born on May 24, 1924 in Bigger, Saskatchewan, Canada, to Celia and Chris Anderson. The family moved to Munger, MI in 1924 and moved to Saginaw about 1931 He graduated from Arthur Hill High School in 1942. Married Mary (Mone) Van Sickle December 1943. She predeceased him in Feb. 1970. Ken served in the army in the European Theatre from 1943 to 1946. Following his discharge he studied to become a Presbyterian clergyman and pastored in the tent ministry style (i.e. worked to supplement income while serving churches in Plainwell, Saginaw, Houghton Lake, Munger, and Port Huron). During these years he enjoyed serving as chaplain at the Lutz Veteran's Hospital for seven years and part time for five years. He was the Executive Secretary of the city's Human Relations Commission, the first Director of the Saginaw County Anti-Poverty Commission, and spent 19 years at Saginaw Steering Gear. Ken was most pleased to have received the Human Relation Award from the Saginaw Chapter of the Frontiers of America in 1962. He devoted much time as a volunteer to a number of civic and religious organizations. He was fortunate to have received a M.A. Degree from CMU in 1984. Ken and Ruth (Woodland Wright) were married in November of 1984. Ken had a sportsman's heart, enjoying especially baseball/softball (He never tired of sharing the story of breaking both arms and finishing the 'must win' game! It was a church league game while Ken was the pastor at the Wadsworth Presbyterian Church). Ken was awarded a second degree black belt at age 80 from the laudable Auman Academy of Tae Kwon Do in Bay City. Ken is predeceased by his parents, his first wife and mother of his children, Mary Ione VanSickle Anderson, and six siblings: sisters Alice McCurdy, Dorothy Wohlfiel, and brothers Alfred, Donald, Keith, and Burton; a grandson, Willard R. Jones Jr.; also two members of his extended family, brothers-in-law Frances Ray, Mike Priola, Gerry McCurdy and niece Kathleen Neiman. He is survived by his wife Ruth (Woodland Wright) Anderson; his six children: Karen Vicki Jones of Saginaw; Nancy Lynn of Grand Rapids; Kenneth Lee (Anne) of Bay City; Cheryl Sue Anderson of Swartz Creek; Cindy Jo Anderson and Jean Rachelle of Flint. His step children; Timothy (Karen Gottschalk) Wright of Ann Arbor; Dr. Bradley E. Wright of Georgia; and Jason P. (Dr. Rebecca) Wright of Cleveland, Ohio. His sister Betty Ray who lives in Saginaw. Ken was blessed with a number of Grandchildren: Dr. LaDonna Jones of Gig Harbor, Washington; Tracy Anderson of Grand Rapids; Howard and Raquel (De'Asia) of Grand Rapids; Vickie Purnell of Atlanta, Georgia; Rianne of Bay City; Raymond (Melanie) Anderson of Ohio; Matthew of Auburn, Mi; Clint (Raenelle) Howay of Bay City, Mi; Rebecca (Michael) Mead of Grand Haven; Kathleen (Larry)Thompson of Swartz Creek; Cory (Dena) Anderson of Grand Rapids; Richard (Angie) Riggie of San Antonio, Texas; Christopher Riggie of Grand Rapids. Isaac, Grace, Sylvia Wright of Georgia, Ethan, Toby Wright of Ann Arbor, and Elliott and Phillip Wright of Cleveland, OH. There are 19 great-grand-children and four great-great-grand-children. A memorial service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 7, 2018 at Second Presbyterian Church, 2665 Midland Road. Rev. James Neumann will officiate. Friends may call at The Snow Funeral Home, 3775 N. Center Rd., (between Shattuck and McCarty), where the family will be present on Friday from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and on Saturday at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, send donations to Second Presbyterian Church Memorial program and Missionary programs to include those working with the anti-human slavery program.

Judith Virginia Anderson was born on April 20, 1944 and passed away on April 15, 2019.

Nancy Anne Metcalf Age 93, died peacefully at Bethany Village in Centerville after two years of declining health. She was predeceased in 1999 by her beloved husband of 53 years, Jarold G. Anderson. Born in Battle Creek, Michigan, Nancy attended Maryville College and Wright State University. She and Jerry moved to Kettering in 1960. After his death, Nancy moved to Bethany Village, where she became a Stephen minister and resident representative. Nancy’s life centered on faith, family, and friends. A member of Sugar Creek Presbyterian Church in Kettering for nearly 60 years, she was an elder, trustee, Sunday School teacher, leader of Presbyterian Women, and all-around volunteer. Nancy was also active in P.T.A, scouting programs, American Field Service, and T.O.P.S. She worked at the Middletown Presbyterian Church, Children’s House Nursery School in Centerville, and several businesses in Kettering and Centerville. Nancy loved being a mother and grandmother. She is survived by her children, Stephen Anderson of Knoxville, Fred Anderson (Marsha Bare Anderson) formerly of Atlanta, the Reverend Dr. Barbara Anderson (the Reverend Dr. Mark Smutny) of Seattle, and Debra Anderson Gold (Thomas Gold) of Springboro; AFS student, Rose Noel Andrew of South Africa; grandchildren, Nathaniel Anderson, Benjamin Anderson, Christopher Smutny (Brett Smutny Adler), Kenneth Smutny (Reagan Smutny), Matthew Gold, and Jennifer Gold Mynchenberg (Parker Mynchenberg); great-grandchildren, Kylie Smutny, Avery Smutny, Kaelyn Smutny, and Cora Smutny. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the staffs of both Bethany Lutheran Village and , who not only provided care for Nancy, but a community of love and support. The services will be held at Sugar Creek Presbyterian Church at 4417 Bigger Road, Kettering Ohio 45440 at 11:00 AM on Friday November 15, 2019. A light lunch will be served by the Women’s Association following the service. The family asks that donations in Nancy’s memory be made to Sugar Creek Presbyterian Church or . Published in Dayton Daily News on Nov. 3, 2019

Katherine Lynn Anderson, 32, passed away in Birmingham, Alabama on August 23, 2021 with her devoted parents by her side. Katherine’s life calling was using sign language to tell the stories of those who otherwise could not be heard. Born January 24, 1989 in Irmo, South Carolina, she always felt the state of Alabama was her home as it was the gathering place for family events and celebrations. Katherine graduated from JP Taravella High School in Coral Springs, Florida in 2007 and graduated Cum Laude in 2011 from Maryville College with a Bachelor of Arts including a double major in Sign Language Interpreting and American Sign Language/Deaf Studies. In 2013 she graduated from the prestigious Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. with a Master of Social Work degree specializing in working with Deaf and Hard of Hearing populations. Since her graduation from Gallaudet in 2013, she worked for the Alabama Department of Mental Health Office of Deaf Services and at the time of her passing was the Region V Interpreter Coordinator for the State of Alabama. In her eight year career as an interpreter, she was able to participate in some of life’s most precious moments such as interpreting for a non-hearing couple through the birth of their child, communicating through sign language with the mother, and then relaying it to the doctors and hospital staff. Katherine was due for a shift change midway through the labor and selflessly stayed with the couple until their child was safely delivered. Recently, she purchased a new home near Birmingham and enjoyed making it her own. She had a dedicated craft room where she did everything from machine monogramming to making custom soaps for a friend’s baby shower. Another of her favorite things to do was hosting a weekly girl’s night with her beloved puppy, Tate, always underfoot welcoming and charming guests. She also enjoyed trips with her friends that included skydiving and zip line courses. Katherine was incredibly close to her parents, Beth and Glenn Anderson, and treasured their family time together. Katherine was a true gift to those around her, and her legacy is one of immense skill, kindness, compassion, and dedication. Katherine achieved what we all hope to in her 32 years of life; leaving this world a better place than when she entered it. Katherine was preceded in her death by her grandparents, Gil and Anne Crane and Owen and Bessie Anderson, all from Decatur, Alabama. She is survived by her parents, Beth and Glenn Anderson, of Opelika, Alabama and countless extended family members. The family wishes to express a special thank you to the staff at Grandview Hospital in Birmingham for the thoughtful care they provided for Katherine and continue to provide for the community. A memorial service will be held Friday, August 27 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 801 Jackson St. SE, Decatur, Alabama with visitation from 10:00 AM- 10:45 AM and the ceremony immediately following. Hartselle Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Westminster Presbyterian churchhttps://www.wpc-decatur.org/giving/ or The American Lung Association https://www.lung.org/

Jessie Lou Brunson Anderson, of Tampa, Florida was born on January 21, 1926, in Jamestown, N.Y. Jess/Mom/Grandmom/Great-Grannie peacefully passed away Tuesday, September 6, 2022. Jess enjoyed being with and serving people—especially family. Some of her favorite early memories include playing in the creek behind a family home outside Elmira, N.Y. She enjoyed music and played cello in college and formed an ensemble to play at special events. Many favorite memories were made in Centralia, N.Y. where extended family had a farm. During summer visits, Jess learned to drive the hay wagon and care for the dairy cattle. She thought to be a farmer’s wife.

Jess attended Maryville College in Tennessee where she played in the orchestra, sang in the choir, was a member of the “BG’s”—a secret club, and was Homecoming Queen in 1946. Jess was also in the Student Counsel, President of the Women’s Student Government Association, and selected for Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities. She worked her way through college by waiting on tables in the dining hall and as an assistant to her chemistry professor. She graduated with a major in Psychology and a minor in Biology.

After graduation Jess worked as a welfare worker in Elmira. She didn’t have a car, so she took the bus or walked to visit her many elderly housebound clients. After marriage to Lloyd, they moved to Tampa where she was an at-home mom and raised five children and loved on, and was loved by, 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

In the 1960’s, Jess re-entered the workforce as a substitute teacher at Gorrie Elementary and Robinson High Schools. Then, as a secretary at Blake High School before segregation and during a teachers’ strike, she was able to get church friends to fill in for the teachers so that school could go on. She went on to work as secretary at Madison Junior High, then office coordinator for the 1979 Billy Graham Crusade. Jess had the privilege of driving Crusade speaker Joni Erikson Tada around for two days and had wonderful memories of her time on staff with the Crusade. After that, Jess worked as the West Coast Coordinator for the Bill Gothard organization, office manager for Prison Crusade, and clerk at “The Sign of the Fish” bookstore.

In April 1966, Jess committed her life to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and faithfully served Him. Throughout her adult life, Jess was a member of Hyde Park Presbyterian Church, South Tampa Fellowship, and St. Petersburg Presbyterian Church. Jess volunteered in many local organizations such as Alpha House, Meals on Wheels, and the Flowering Tree Garden Club. She led a Bible Study at Regency Cove, attended Bible Study Fellowship, was an officer in the Christian Women’s Club, and taught an “Overview of the Old Testament” class at Steppin’ Stones Farm. She took a mission trip to Brazil and a teaching tour of the Holy Land and Egypt.

Jess was very thankful she was brought up in a Christian home and never doubted her parent’s love for her. They had been poor during the Great Depression and lived through it. She was able to go to college by working her way through and with much sacrifice from her parents. She learned how to take care of herself and to prosper. She was given a firm foundation on which to build—Jesus Christ. In her memoir, she writes to her family: “…God has provided for me in so many ways. He has watched over me, provided for me and comforted me when I needed it. Remember you always have someone you can turn to, lean on, and find comfort in: Jesus Christ, your Lord and Savior.” Jess leaves a legacy of faithfulness, love and service to all who knew her.

Jess is survived by sons: Stephen Anderson (Deborah), John Anderson (Karen), Mark Anderson (Cindy Kunish); daughters: Marsha Smith (Hugh), Patricia Curtiss (Stephen); grandchildren: Jason Anderson (Carla), Ashley Young, Zachary Anderson, William Anderson (Bekah), Juliana Temple (Austin), Joel Anderson (Kimberly), Jacqueline Smith, Christopher Smith (Marcia), Grant Curtiss (Heather), Jeffrey Curtiss (Mainity Batista Linhares), Michael Curtiss, Carl Curtiss (Katie); great-granddaughters: Naomi Rue Anderson, Mackenzie & Madison Young, Josie Temple, Anna Lee Anderson, Leoa & Naia Curtiss; and great-grandsons: Eli & Ethan Anderson, Levi & Jacob Anderson, Gideon & Asa Temple, Peter Anderson, Nathaniel, Henry & Benajmin Smith, and Caleb & Jackson Curtiss.

James Rhyne Arnhart, age 96 of Murfreesboro, Tennessee passed away at Alive Hospice on September 1, 2020. He was born in Asheville, North Carolina on January 26, 1924 but raised in Knoxville, Tennessee. Mr. Arnhart was preceded in death by his wife Bobbye Arnhart and his parents, James William and Eula Rhyne Arnhart; brothers, Arwyn and Jerry Arnhart and a sister, Maxie Gunderson. Survivors include a brother, Tom Arnhart (Sue); children, Brooks Harrison (Charlie), James Arnhart, Jr. (Carol), and Leslee Barfield (Jean Paul); grandchildren, Rhyne Piggott (Whitney), Lucie Burchfield (John), Will Carrington, Wesley and Julia Arnhart; great-grandchildren, Harrison Murphy, Mary Evans Burchfield, Opal Piggott, Parker Burchfield, Kaylee Harrison, Caroline Harrison, Mycaela Harrison and Emily Elizabeth Arnhart. Mr. Arnhart was a United States Coast Guard veteran and served during World War II and spent four years in the Pacific as a Pharmacist’s Mate on the USS Brewster. After the war he returned to attend college at the University of Tennessee and was a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity. He graduated from Maryville College with a degree in Business Administration. He later received his Master’s Degree in Hospital Administration from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. Mr. Arnhart moved to Murfreesboro in 1953 to become CEO of Rutherford Hospital, Inc. later Middle Tennessee Medical Center. He received his Doctor of Jurisprudence in 1970 and was ordained an Episcopal priest after attending Seminary at the School of Theology in Sewanee, Tennessee. James later retired from Middle Tennessee Medical Center in 1986 and became Executive Director of the Christy Houston Foundation until his retirement in 1999. A public graveside service will be held 2:00 p.m. Friday, September 11, 2020 at Evergreen Cemetery with Rev. Michael O’Bannon officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Charity Circle of Murfreesboro, Alive Hospice, St. Thomas Rutherford Foundation or the James Arnhart Nursing Scholarship at MTSU. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Woodfin Funeral Chapels and an online guestbook is available for the Arnhart family at www.woodfinchapel.com.

Joel Jordan Arrendale, M.D., age 95 ½, died May 3, 2012. He was born in Rabun County, Georgia on October 30, 1916 to the late John V. Sr. and Tallulah Edwards Arrendale. He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Catherine Thompson Arrendale, his brother John V. Arrendale, Jr.; sisters, Clyde A. Pleasants English and Ruth A. Ezzard, nephews, Jim Pleasants, Henry Ezzard, and Bill Ezzard. He is survived by his son, Bruce Arrendale; his daughter, Suzanne A. Strickland, and her husband Ricky; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Gwen Arrendale; and numerous nieces and nephews including Janie P. Taylor, Jeanne N. Pleasants, Peggy P. Thrasher, Joanne E. Barksdale, John Ezzard, M.D., Lucy E. Bartlett, Betty Ezzard, and Elizabeth E. Powell. He was a graduate of the Young Harris Academy, Maryville College, TN; and the Medical College of Georgia. Dr. Arrendale served in World War II as a Captain in the Army Medical Corps. He was assigned as a surgeon on a hospital ship. For over 40 years he practiced medicine in Hayesville, NC; Cornelia, GA; the Alto and Reidsville state prisons, and in Douglasville, GA. He was a member of the Douglasville First United Methodist Church, a Mason, a member of Scottish Rite 32nd degree, a Shriner, and a member of the University of Georgia Gridiron Honorary Society. He excelled in his hobby of creating fine furniture, wooden trays, bowls and boxes, and whimsical items. His body was donated for medical studies.

passed away on August 23,2014. Maryville College meant so much to them, if it hadn’t been for a History Professor who had his students sit in alphabetical order, they might never have meet See Magic folder for full Obituary

passed away on Saturday, August 23, 2014 at Friends Homes of Guilford in Greensboro, NC, where she was a long time resident. She was 99 years old. Helen, born in Bellefontaine, Ohio, was the daughter of Verna Brattain and H.R. Bewley. She attended and earned a BA in English from Maryville College in Maryville, TN in 1940, and worked for the Farm Security Administration after graduating. In 1958 she earned a Master of Science in Child Development and Family Relations from Woman’s College (UNC Greensboro) and was active in the beginning of the Family Life Council. Helen served as President of the Greensboro YWCA, and the UNCG Faculty Women and Church Women United. She also held positions as Assistant Director of UNCG’s Institute for Child and Family Development; as a consultant for the Ford Foundation at Lady Irwin College, New Delhi, India; and as Executive Director of the Greensboro YWCA. In the early 1970’s Helen found her calling as an artist and learned to weave after watching a weaving demonstration in the mountains of Tennessee. First taught by artist, Maggie Smoot of Greensboro, Helen also studied at Penland School of Crafts, Penland, NC; Saterglantan Vavskola, Insjon, Sweden; and at Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, Deer Isle, Maine. She studied with and was a favorite artist of famed American artist and teacher, Jack Lenoir Larsen. She had numerous shows of her work around the country and has many works hanging in residences, businesses and public buildings around the country, including the main foyer of the Jackson Library at UNCG as well as at the UNCG’s Three College Observatory. Helen also loved and played the piano as a child and late in life returned to this love taking lessons from the late Dr. Henry Ingram at Greensboro College. In 1941 she married Warren Ashby, who taught first at UNC Chapel Hill and then from 1949 until his death in 1985 at UNC Greensboro where he established and taught in the Philosophy and Religious Studies Departments. He was also the first Director of the Residential College at UNCG, now named the Ashby Residential College. Together, they worked diligently and constantly for equal educational, civil and women’s rights. Survivors are children: Dr. W. Allen Ashby (Karen Krick), Plainfield, NJ; Paul Ashby (Maureen O’Keeffe), Greensboro, NC; Ann Ashby, Charleston, SC; Grandchildren: Deborah Ashby Thompson (Steve Thompson), Ashby Lee Pettigrew, Randal William Pettigrew of Greensboro, NC; Graham Warren Pettigrew of Falls Church, VA; Suhey Ashby Taveras (Ruben Taveras) of Miami, FL.; and four great grandchildren Donovan and Alexander Japp of Greensboro; Daniel and Mia Elena Taveras of Miami; nieces Barbara Bewley Stewart of Bellefontaine, OH and Carol Bewley Nagel (Richard Nagel) Lewis Center, OH. The family received friends and family at an informal memorial service at the home that Helen and Warren Ashby designed and built, 1710 Wright Avenue, Greensboro, NC 2 on Saturday, September 6. Memorials may be made to NC State Library for the Blind & Physically Handicapped, 1811 Capital Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27635; to Friends Homes Inc at Guilford, 935 New Garden Rd, Greensboro, NC 27410; or to Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro at 2500 Summit Ave, Greensboro, NC 27405. The Ashby family wants to sincerely thank all the staff of Friends Homes at Guilford who have wonderfully cared for Helen since 1995 and for the staff of Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro who have helped her and family in the last days of her life.

Nancy Ferguson Atkins, 90, of Hixson, passed away on March 4, 2022.

Nancy was born on August 19, 1931, in Pittsburgh, Pa., and was blessed to be adopted by Sam and Margaret Ferguson of McKeesport, Pa. Nancy grew up in McKeesport/Glassport, a suburb of Pittsburgh, Pa. Nancy graduated from Glassport High School in 1949 with honors. She attended Maryville College and graduated in 1953 with a Bachelors in English Education. Upon graduation, Nancy was hired by Capital Airlines and trained at what is now Reagan National Airport. Upon completion of her training, she was assigned to Chattanooga as a reservationist and ticket agent. Chattanooga is where she met her future husband, Billy T. Atkins, Sr.,

Nancy and Bill were married on Nov. 26, 1953, in McKeesport, Pa., and established their residence in Chattanooga.  Nancy was hired at Combustion Engineering as an industrial editor of the Chattanooga company newspaper the CE News. While working as an editor of the CE News she won a golden pen award which resulted in her articles being reprinted in the corporate headquarters magazine, Combustion Topics. Nancy resigned her position with Combustion in 1956 upon the birth of her first child, Beth. After her son, Terry was born she went back to work as a reference librarian in the TVA technical library and later served as the library supervisor after her daughter, Amy was born. Nancy was selected for the TVA management training program where she spent time replacing each section head in the Office Service Branch. While serving in her many roles she was a member of the National Management Association and served as a board member of the Chattanooga chapter. She edited the club’s newspaper which won top prize for publication.

Nancy and her family were always so proud of her career.  She served as a supervisor during a time when women were given few opportunities to advance their career and she did it while also successfully raising a family. Nancy took early retirement in 1988 and joined her husband, Bill, in traveling the United States while also spending the winters in Melbourne, Florida.

Nancy was predeceased by her parents, Margaret and Samuel Ferguson of Chattanooga, TN, her husband of 65 years, Billy T. Atkins, Sr., her brother and sister-in-law Keith and Margaret Ferguson of Rio Verde, Arizona, her sister and brother-in-law, Marjorie and Jim Goody of Aurora, Colorado and her brother-in-law Glenn A. Atkins of Conyers, GA.

She is survived by her children, Beth (Jimmy) Lawrence of Auburn, AL, Billy T. (Terry) Atkins, Jr. (Ida) of Antioch, IL, Amy (Mark) Whitt of Hixson, TN and her grandson Benjamin T. Atkins of Antioch, IL.  In addition, she is survived by her sister-in-law, Virginia Atkins of Chattanooga, TN, sister in law Ada Atkins of Conyers, GA, and her brother-in-law Bruce (Mary Ann) Atkins of South Pittsburgh, TN along with a host of nieces and nephews.

Nancy was a member of Red Bank Baptist Church and the Truth-Seekers Sunday School Class.

Nancy will be buried alongside her husband at the Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Beth, Terry, and Amy would like to express their deepest appreciation to the wonderful caregivers from Gooden’s Compassionate Care and Hospice of Chattanooga for their dedication in taking care of Mom.

born Nov. 20, 1916 in Mt. Holly, NJ, was the only child of H.G. Austin, Sr. and Ethyl Forker Austin. He attended elementary school in Lavallette, NJ where his family had moved when he was six years old. His high school education was at Point Pleasant, NJ. A graduate of Maryville College, Maryville, TN, he also attended the University of Alabama where he was in the aeronautical engineering program at the time of his induction into the Army Air Force in Feb., 1942. On August 1st he wed Susannah Lupton in Lincoln, NE. In May of 1943 he embarked for England on the Queen Mary, now a troop ship in WWII. After three years and three months he rejoined Susannah in Chicago where she was employed at George Williams College. Harold found employment with TWA. Later he became an employee of B.F. Goodrich and then with Lamson Brothers brokerage firm and Harris Trust and Savings Bank. In retirement he was employed part-time with the local Magnavox distributor. In every situation lifetime friendships were formed. In 1958 he moved his family from Chicago to La Grange, IL. He quickly became engaged in community activities. As a member of the La Grange YMCA’s Y’s Men’s organization he eventually served as their President and was instrumental in developing an active community extension program for youth with problems associated with drug abuse. This program now, independently, has widened to include peer counseling in the local schools. Additionally, as a member of First Presbyterian Church, La Grange, Harold served as an usher for many years. He was always a dedicated Jersey boy at heart, and a lover of the ocean where he swam and fished regularly in his youth. He loved the outdoors. Harold is survived by his wife, three children, John, Jim and Julie; six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He passed away on Nov. 1st in La Grange, IL of natural causes. The family will hold a closed gathering of remembrance and reflection.

Susannah Margaret Lupton Austin was born in Detroit, Michigan in August of 1917. At the age of five, her parents, Harry Holmes and Mary Haner Lupton, returned to Gallipolis, OH to care for her aged grandmother. Susannah attended Lincoln Elementary School and Gallia Academy High School, graduating in 1934. She received her BA from Maryville College, Maryville, TN in June, 1939. Between 1939 and 1940 she attended Ohio University where she received her BS degree in Education. Subsequently, for three years, she taught English, French, and Home Economics at Midvale Consolidated H.S. in Midvale, OH. She completed an M.A. in Educational Administration from Northern Illinois University in 1972. On August 1, 1942 Susannah was married to Harold Garwood Austin in Lincoln, NE. by Dr. Leland, Clergy Emeritus of the University of Nebraska. The wedding brunch was hosted by Mrs. Morning, widow of the third Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. It was the first wedding of a serviceman in Lincoln. In June 1943 Harold was assigned to an Army Air Base in England where he would remain for the next 3 1/2 years. Susannah moved to Chicago where she was employed as Assistant to the Comptroller of George Williams College. Harold rejoined Susannah in December of 1946. After a short period with Chicago Biological Supply, she gave birth to her first son John Harold, and three years later to James Garwood. As a member of United Church of Hyde Park, she was active in the Mother's Club, acting as President prior to moving to Crerar Presbyterian on the South Side. In August of 1956, Julie Ann joined her brothers. Two years later, the family moved to LaGrange. As a member of First Presbyterian Church in La Grange, she served as a deacon, elder, choir mother, and leader of the Junior High Sunday School. For twenty-three years she taught sixth grade at Spring Avenue School. She retired in 1983 and began volunteering at La Grange Memorial Hospital in 1984 for more than 20 years. Susannah was an avid reader and enjoyed keeping current with world news each day. She passed away peacefully in December 2016. Susannah is survived by her three children, John, Jim, and Julie; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. God has blessed our family with the ability to give each other strength, and so much of our strength has come from all who have known us and shared their love and support over the years. The family will have a private gathering for remembrance and reflection. Interment will take place in Ohio. Arrangements entrusted to Hallowell & James Funeral Home, Countryside

Ann Harrison Avery passed away on September 25, 2022.  She had been living in Lincolnshire, England with her husband Desmond.

passed away October 7, 2014. She was born in Maryville Tennessee, daughter of the late Roy Blackburn and Alice Blackburn. In 1968 she moved to Lake County from Mountain City, Tennessee. She was an elder of the First Presbyterian Church in Eustis, Florida and a member of the Presbyterian Women's organization. She was active in Howey -in-the-Hills Garden and Civic Club; Lake Association for Home and Community Education and Epsilon Sigma Alpha Sorority. Before coming to Lake County, Alice was a 4-H/Home Economics' extension agent in Mountain City TN. She employed as 4-H extension agent with the University of Florida/Lake County Extension from 1968 until her retirement in 1992. She administered the 4-H youth development program serving over 5,000 youth an leaders during her career. Alice graduated from Maryville College with a Bachelor's degree in home economics and earned a master's degree from the University of Pittsburgh. She received several awards: Distinguished Service Award from National Association of Extension 4-H Agents and its 25 Year Service Award, Lake County Agriculture and Youth Fair's 1992 Roll of Honor for 20 years of service, President of the Florida Association of the 4-H Agents and registration chairman for the 1981 National Conference of 4-H service as a volunteer. The Howey Garden and Civic Club gave Alice the 2002 Blanche Hobbs Award for outstanding service. Friends appreciated her dependability and quiet steady manner. Alice enjoyed sewing, weaving, upholstery, bread making and scrapbooking. Alice is survived by her Husband of 42 years,David H. Ayres. Also surviving her brother, Charles R (Elizabeth) Blackburn of Maryville, TN; sister-in-law, Fern Blackburn of Knoxville; nephews, Richard E. (Cynthia) Blackburn, Thompson Station, TN; Timothy C. (Jean) Blackburn of Maryville; great nieces, Gracie, Jordin and Audrey; great -nephews, Joe and wife Rachel; great-great niece, Virginia Alice and Cousin, Grace Stinecipher of Standford, FL. Alice was predeceased by her brother James W. Blackburn. A memorial service will be held at 11am Thursday October 16 at the First Presbyterian Church in Eustis, Florida

Stephen M. Ayers passed away on January 4, 2022.  He was a faculty member and director at Western Carolina University for 22 years until his retirement in 2008.

A prolific director, he mounted nearly 100 theatrical productions on campus stages during his tenure, taking several shows on the road to the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival, Southeastern Theatre Conference and New York International Fringe Festival.

He also acted in numerous motion pictures and television programs, with roles in films including “Days of Thunder,” “Mr. Brooks” and “The List” and TV shows ranging from “Matlock” and “In The Heat of the Night” to “Dawson’s Creek” and “Savannah.”

Stephen earned his bachelor’s degree in drama from Maryville College, master’s degree in drama from the University of Houston and his doctoral degree in theater history from the University of Colorado.  Arts education was his life’s work.

age 86, passed away Sunday (March 30, 2014). Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Homes, Kingsport. Read more: Obits | Kingsport Times-News http://www.timesnews.net/obit/18649/anne-tucker-cress-babb#ixzz2xY7yYDWQ Follow us: @timesnewsonline on Twitter | timesnews on Facebook

Jeanne Howell Baccarat passed away on May 21, 2013.

Barbara Pettigrew Bacon, 73, of Fort Myers, FL passed away peacefully at home on March 24, 2017 after a brief illness. She was surrounded by family. Barbara was born in New York, NY on July 7, 1943 to John and Edith Pettigrew. She grew up in Morris Plains, NJ and graduated from Maryville College in 1965. After college, she joined the American Red Cross Clubmobile program (the Donut Dollies) where she presented education programs for off-duty American Servicemen. She served at Camp Pelham, South Korea and then at the ASCOM base in Seoul. After serving with the American Red Cross she lived briefly in Boston, Lansing, and Baton Rouge before moving to Nassau, Bahamas where she met and married Alan Bacon. They moved to London, England where their daughter Amanda was born. Barbara was an accomplished teacher who was loved by many students and staff during her 30 years at The Canterbury School in Fort Myers. While at Canterbury, Barbara passed on her enthusiasm and love for learning to her students through her geography and history classes as well as theater productions in the early years; she was a champion of her students and a loyal supporter of her colleagues’ interests and efforts throughout the years. Barbara was also a long-time volunteer at the Alliance of the Arts and an avid nature lover and conservationist; she also served on several boards of local non-profit organizations, focusing on ones involving preservation of natural resources. Barbara loved to travel, had a thirst for learning and wanted to experience all the world had to offer. She is survived by her daughter, Amanda Bacon Lillis and son-in-law Joe Lillis of Boston, MA; her siblings Mary Ellen Ferraro of Bridgewater, NJ, Kathie Zunich of Fort Myers, FL, Walter and Laurie Pettigrew of Cedarville, NJ, David Pettigrew of Fort Myers, FL; nieces and nephews, Stacey Ferraro and Craig Cascio, Kevin and Nicole Ferraro, Lisa Zunich, John Pettigrew and Brianna Marinitti; and great nephews and nieces, Griffin, Logan, Abigail, and Peyton. Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, John and Edith Pettigrew. A private service will be held for family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Hope Hospice of Fort Myers or The Carter Center of Atlanta.

Charles Edmund Bacon, 92, of Little Rock died Sunday, March 3, 2019 at Hospice Home Care in Little Rock. Mr. Charles was born March 7, 1926 in Des Arc to Edmund and Louise (Judson) Bacon. He accepted the Lord at age 9 and baptized at age 10 in the White River at Des Arc. He was ordained as a deacon on March 20, 1960 at First Baptist Church in Des Arc. Over the years he taught Sunday School from boys aged 6 to senior adults. He was the church treasurer in three different churches, First Baptist Church in Des Arc, First Baptist Church in Berryville, and Valley View Baptist Church in Eureka Springs. He served on the building committees of First Baptist Church in Des Arc and Berryville. After his move to Little Rock he became a member of Southern Heights Baptist Church in 2005. He was a member of Gideons International from 1979 to present. Mr. Charles served his country in the Navy during WWII aboard the U. S. Snowball. He earned his BA in Business Administration from Maryville College in 1950 and his Masters in Counseling at The University of Mississippi in 1959. He taught school for eight years and was high school counselor for 23 years at Des Arc and Berryville. His community service included Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce, Tourist Center Receptionist, City Planning Board, Hospital Auxiliary, and Carroll County Retired Teachers Association. There will be a Memorial Service held in Little Rock at Presbyterian Village Chapel on Thursday March 7, 2019 at 10:00 AM with Dr. David Moore and Dr. Melvin York officiating. Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at 2:00 PM in Des Arc at First Baptist Church with burial in Lakeside Cemetery with Dr. Melvin York officiating.

James McKenzie Baird, Jr. Brandon – "Dear People…." If James McKenzie Baird, Jr., was delivering his obituary, that is how he would begin. Many will recognize the familiar opening to his sermons, and the powerful voice that helped lead friends and family to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Jim went to be with his Heavenly Father on January 31, at age 91. He lived a remarkable life, marked with service, humility and a sense of purpose. Born in 1928 to Scottish immigrant parents in New Jersey, his family moved to Chicago when he was 10. Following high school graduation, Jim traveled south to Maryville College in Tennessee to play football. It was there that he met the love of his life, Jane McMillan, on a blind date. A Southern belle from North Georgia, Jane remarked that it was the first time she had ever seen a young man in an overcoat. After college, Jim was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the infantry branch of the U.S. Army, where he served during the Korean War. In 1952 he married Jane and began work for the New York Life Insurance Company. At the age of 28, Jim became a Christian and was called to his life's work of full-time ministry. In 1957, he graduated from Columbia Theological Seminary in Georgia. Jim's ministry spanned almost 40 years in Presbyterian churches across the Southeast: he shepherded congregations in Clinton, MS, Brewton, AL, Gadsden, AL, Macon, GA, and Coral Gables, FL, before retiring after 12 years as the Senior Minister of First Presbyterian Church in Jackson, MS, in 1995. He was a "Preacher of the People," with a ministry accentuated by personal relationships and his anecdotal teaching. He was a Founding Father of his beloved denomination, The Presbyterian Church of America (PCA), founded in 1973. He served as the 12th moderator of the PCA. He was gifted with a clear vision and a strong work ethic, and even after retirement he was an able preacher of the Word. He continued to spread the Gospel – in homes, in churches, and at Bible, mission and marriage conferences across the world – and in one year alone, at the age of 75, he delivered over 100 sermons throughout the North American continent. Dr. Baird preached his last homily at age 91 at The Orchard, a retirement home where he shared monthly duties for the last five years. Jim believed in the importance of Christian education. During his ministry, he was involved in Christian schools in Gadsden, AL, Macon, GA, and Jackson, MS – and we're sure many will remember his Sunday night "children's sermons" and the humorous stick figures that accompanied them. Dr. Baird also served on the board of Reformed Theological Seminary, Belhaven University and African Bible Colleges. Additionally, he worked closely with pastors and laymen to help form Mission Mississippi, an organization formed to encourage and demonstrate grace in the Body of Christ across racial lines. He and his beloved wife Jane loved to travel the world, especially after retirement, and were purposeful in encouraging missionaries and pastors along the way. They visited six continents, and never left a country without sending a postcard to the family back home. His greatest earthly joy, next to his relationship with the Lord, was his marriage and his family. He leaves his adored wife of 67 years, Jane, and their four sons, Jim Baird III (Susan), Knox Baird (Debra), David Baird (Pat) and Mark Baird (Rhonda); and his 11 grandchildren Megan, Andrew (Anna), and Grayson Baird; Alexandria, Knox and Hannah Jane Baird; Grace and Mac Baird; Macey B. Benton (Matt), Betsy B. Gardner (Seth), and Richard Baird. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Christina Baird, his older sister, Ina Arnold, and his infant son Daniel. Family gatherings were always a reason to thank God for His Son, for Jim's beloved America, and for his family. The Baird clan will especially remember his legacy of rich storytelling, his devotion to and admiration for his wife, and his leave-taking of them in their adult lives: "I'm proud of you, girl," or "I'm proud of you, son," would carry them for days. "Papa Jim" will be remembered as a man of great integrity – as well as for his homemade birthday and Valentine's cards, the love of his New York Yankees, his prowess on the golf course, his weakness for ice cream, and particularly for his favorite benediction: (Jude 1:24-25) "Now to Him who is able to keep you from falling, to Him who is able, at your death, to present you blameless before His throne of grace with exceeding great joy. To the only wise God, our Savior, let there be glory, majesty, dominion and power, now and forever more. AMEN." A private family burial will be followed by a Memorial Service at 6:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, Jackson, MS, on Tuesday, February 4. There will be no formal visitation. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to African Bible Colleges, Belhaven University, French Camp Academy and Reformed Theological Seminary. "Well done, Good and Faithful Servant."

Martha Helen Rawlings Baker, 94, beloved mother and wife, of Winter Haven, passed away on Saturday, February 6, 2016 at Winter Haven Hospital resulting from a stroke. Born October 12, 1921, to Fred P and Mattie Fox Rawlings in Sevierville, TN, she attended Maryville College before transferring to the University of Tennessee. After graduating from the University of Tennessee in 1942, she moved to Winter Haven, where she taught history at Winter Haven High School. She married local businessman, Cecil Baker on December 16, 1945. They just celebrated 70 years of marriage this past December. She was an active member at Beymer Memorial United Methodist Church for over 70 years. She was preceded in death by a son, Mike Baker and a brother, Dr. Frederick Rawlings. She is survived by her husband, Cecil Baker, 2 sons, Stephen Baker and his wife Jeanette of Winter Haven and Dr. Robin A. Baker and his wife Kathryn of Winter Haven, FL; a daughter Jane Ann Baker of Raleigh, NC; 8 grandchildren, William (Jennifer) Baker, Constance (Seth) Jones C.K. Baker, Henry Baker, Patrick Baker, Kevin Baker, Christopher Baker and Ian McKillop; and 4 great grandchildren. A funeral service was held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, February 9, 2016, at Beymer Memorial United Methodist Church in Winter Haven. Interment followed at Lakeside Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers please make memorial donations in her name to Beymer Memorial United Methodist Church. Condolences may be sent at www.oakridgefuneralcare.com.

Alvin “Al” C. Baker died at his home in Maryville, Tenn., Sunday, January 30, 2022, surrounded by family and friends. Al was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur C. and Juanita Baker. He is survived by his brother Dennis, sister-in-law Pamela, nephews Brandon and Dustin Baker, Monica Chron “Aunt Nicka” and beloved friends Rusty and Sharon Kirkpatrick.

Al will be remembered for his generosity, dedication, and unfailing optimism. A graduate of Harriman High School (’68) and of Maryville College (’72), Al continued to serve his college alma mater with leadership positions in the Blount County Alumni Association and Executive Board of the National Alumni Association and a 26-year membership in the President’s Circle. As general manager of National School Products for over 40 years, Al was fond of saying he could do, “generally, anything.”

A proud Highlander, generous philanthropist, and successful manager, Al once wanted to build things. And indeed, his legacy will be the people, organizations, and even buildings he helped form and shape with his gifts and talents—building an enduring business; mentoring employees; developing alumni relationships through indefatigable volunteerism; cultivating future alumni through the establishment of a scholarship fund; and supporting the construction of buildings such as the Clayton Center for the Arts. But perhaps most of all, Al built tremendous, lasting, lifelong friends, who will continue to celebrate and share his legacy.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, February 5 at 2:00 at Roane Memorial Gardens (Rockwood, Tenn.); a celebration of life service will be held Saturday, February 12 at 2:00 at Clayton Center for the Arts at Maryville College (Maryville, Tenn.).

In Lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions to the Alvin C Baker Endowment Scholarship at Maryville College.

“So the memory fresh shall linger, through life’s smiles and tears.” —Maryville College Alma Mater

Evelyn Alice Baker, 90, of Waverly, Ohio, died in her sleep on Saturday morning, August 6, 2022 at her home.
Evelyn was born July 31, 1932 in New Castle, Pennsylvania, the daughter of the late Carl Boughton and Jean (Mulholland) Reilly. On August 28, 1954, she was united in marriage to Gareth D. Baker, who survives. Also surviving is a son, Dean Fredrick Baker, daughter, Lynette (Tom) Eileen Grimaldi, and three grandsons. She was preceded in death by her parents, grandson, Terrance Baker, and daughter-in-law, Sheila Baker.

Evelyn was the Director of Christian Education at Garden City Presbyterian Church in Garden City, MI and Moderator of Presbyterian Women of Miami Presbytery, Ohio and Detroit Presbytery, Michigan. She was also very active in the Bristol Village community including her membership in Bristol’s Women’s Group, their potlucks, and checking in with other residents who were ill. She was the Chair of Executive Council from 2012-2014, Chair of Vesper Committee, and received the President’s Life Time Achievement Award for volunteerism in 2016.

Debra Lynn Ballantyne, 50, of Frisco, Texas passed away on May 11, 2020. She was born on July 10, 1969 to Martin Allen and Judith Helen (Agee) Washington in Chicago, Illinois. Debra spent most of her childhood years in Miami, FL and graduated from Miami Palmetto High School.  She attended Maryville College in Maryville, TN for her bachelor’s degree.  After college she moved to Dallas and there met Eric Ballantyne.  Debra and Eric were married in Highlands, NC on May 21, 2001.  She was employed at EXL as a Special Projects Manager. Debra was also on the Board of Trustees for the Texas Ford Aquatics Booster Club supporting the swim team in Frisco, TX.

Debra is survived by her husband, Eric Ballantyne of Frisco, Texas; her two children, Emma and Joshua Ballantyne; her sister, Caren Coffel and her husband, Robert of Dallas, Texas.

Debra was preceded in death by her parents.

John P. Baptist, 100, of Morehead City, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, April 26­, 2019, at his home. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 2, 2019, at Gethsemane Memorial Park, officiated by Rev. Patrick Whaley. Mr. Baptist proudly served our country in the United States Army where he earned numerous commendations. He was a longtime member of Parkview Baptist Church and in his later years, he enjoyed playing in the senior games with his friends. He is survived by his daughter, Judy Moran and husband Philip of Morehead City; sons, Garry Baptist and wife Cathy of New Bern, David Baptist and wife Susan of Swansboro; grandchildren, Phillip Moran, Matthew Moran; great-grandchildren, Sidney, Sarah, Kelsey and Matthew; many loving nieces and nephews; and longtime furry friend, Bogey. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy G. Baptist; parents, Donato and Catherina Baptist; sister, Lillian Flannelly; and brothers, Anthony Baptist and Frank Baptist. A special thanks to Christine Matthews and his dedicated caregivers. Flowers are welcome, or memorial donations may be sent to the Alzheimer's Association at 8180 Greensboro Dr., Ste. 400, McLean, VA 22102.