Class Notes

Rev. Carl Calvin Murray, age 95, of Black Mountain, passed away on Wednesday, April 1, 2020 at Givens Highland Farms. He was born on March 9, 1925 in Blount County, TN to Clyde T. and Olive Wilson Murray. Carl served in the United States Army during WWII and was injured in the Battle of the Bulge. After marrying Earnestine Jo Harrison in 1947, he graduated from Princeton Seminary in 1951 and served as pastor at seven Presbyterian churches until his retirement in 1990. His wife died in 2003 and his daughter Susan Messana in 2012. He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Donnan, his sons David and Mark, his grandchildren Jennifer Messana and Shawn, and his great-grandson Dillon. There will be no services at this time. Penland Family Funeral Home is honored to be caring for the Murray Family.

Katherine Ogilvie Musgrave was still a frisky Tennessee filly at 95, she kept her fiercely independent spirit, her double passion for learning and nutrition, her remarkable frugality, her strong opinions, her never-ending energy, and her deep love for her family and friends until her death on June 20, 2015. She was born February 8, 1920, in Allisona, TN, daughter of Walter William and Kathleen Smith Ogilvie. She was valedictorian in her senior year of high school, and she received a Bachelor of Science degree cum laude from Maryville College in 1941. She served a dietetic internship at Vanderbilt University Medical School and remained there on the staff. In 1944, she married Stanley Dean Musgrave, and in the following years, Katherine worked at the University of Alabama Medical School, the Burnham Hospital in Champaign-Urbana, IL, and the School of Nutrition at Cornell University. She received a Master of Science degree in Nutrition from Oklahoma State University, a Certificate of Advanced Study at the University of Maine, and an honorary Doctor of Science degree from the University of Maine in 2006. Katherine began teaching foods and nutrition at the University of Maine in 1969 and continued teaching FSN 101 Introduction to Food and Nutrition, her favorite course, through Continuing Education on the web many years after retirement. Her love for nutrition education energized her to conduct workshops and to present wellness programs throughout Maine and in neighboring states. She also worked at St. Joseph’s Hospital and with local physicians in Bangor, helping people with medical nutrition therapy, especially related to diabetes, allergies, and weight management. Katherine was tireless in her nutrition career. She was recognized by the University in 1976 for excellence in instruction and positive innovation in the classroom relating to individualized instruction. In 1983, she was named one of ten outstanding women of Northern and Eastern Maine, and in 1989 she was selected as one of five American Home Economic Association leaders. She was involved with the Maine State Department of Education for writing a nutrition curriculum guide for teachers in elementary schools. In the Nutrition Education and Training Program, she directed the offering of nutrition classes for 2000 teachers and school nutrition program personnel throughout the state of Maine. She co-authored a textbook on nutrition for teachers and parents. She authored 29 articles published in professional journals as well as bulletins on Food for Children, Nutrition Games, Snacking Patterns of Adolescents, and Breast Feeding. She worked with the Maine Coalition for Food Security, the Head Start Health Advisory Committee, the Bangor Region Wellness Council, Partnership for Healthy Communities, the Society of Nutrition Education, the Maine Nutrition Council, the Maine Nutrition Network. Katherine was a Fellow in the American Dietetic Association (she was proud of being a member for more than 70 years); she received an award for excellence in Community Dietetics in 1991; and she was president of the Maine Dietetic Association for two terms. In 1995, she received the Mary Ann Hartman Award; in 2002, she was named the Outstanding Continuing Education Faculty member in the New England Region; she was identified as the Outstanding Older Worker by Experience Works in MA in 2003; in 2011, she received both the Maine Women’s Hall of Fame Award and the prestigious Medallion Award from the American Dietetic Association. She thoroughly enjoyed being part of a weekly, early morning dialogue about food, nutrition, and healthful living on radio channel WZON. Until her death, she was always willing and eager to teach courses in Senior College and to present programs and answer questions about food and diet. Her eyes would twinkle, and her voice immediately went into “teacher mode” whenever she was offered an opportunity to talk and/or give advice about food. Katherine enjoyed being a member of the Orono Peace Group, All Souls Congregational Church, AAUW, Thursday Club at UM, Saturday Nighters, and PEO. She loved a good game of bridge, a dinner party or outing with friends, and continuing contacts with university colleagues and former students. In May, Katherine fell and cracked some ribs, but her indomitable spirit kept her going. She traveled to Tennessee to visit her two brothers, Walter and Jim, and their families. She treasured an evening in the family farmhouse built in the late 1860’s by her grandfather, the house where she was born and where she and Stan were married. Then Katherine traveled to South Dakota for her grandson Jack’s wedding and a gathering of her entire family. As she left Tennessee, she said goodbye to her “sweet Tennessee hills;” and as she left South Dakota, she admitted that the trip might be her “swan song.” But, her determined spirit remained with her until her peaceful death, and it will remain with her family and friends as long as we have “Katherine stories.” We are grateful to have loved her as Mother, Namma, Aunt Kiki, advocate of peace and justice, fervent and respectful debater of pertinent issues, faithful child of God, and gracious hostess. In addition to her parents, Katherine was predeceased by her husband Stanley and by her brother Bill. Survivors include; her children, Kathleen (Michael) Batchelder of S. Dakota and Stanley D. Musgrave, Jr. (Janet Seeley) of Norwich, UK; her grandchildren, Dean, Jack (Claudia Laws), and Katherine (Erik Grumstrup) Batchelder and Charlotte Seeley-Musgrave; her brothers Walter (Anita) and Jim (Jeanie) Ogilvie of Tenn.; nieces and nephews.

Edith (“Edie”) Lancaster Mussler passed away peacefully in Wilmington, Del. on May 28, 2020, at the age of 89 from complications of COVID 19. Born in Naples, N.C. on October 25, 1930, her parents were Oren Wilson Lancaster (from Spartanburg County, SC) and Lucy Lancaster née Brittain (from Henderson County, NC). Edie grew up in the mountains of western North Carolina and graduated from Maryville College in East Tennessee. She began her career as a schoolteacher in Atlanta, where she met her first husband (B. Forrest Clayton). They had three children and moved between Georgia, North Carolina, New Jersey and South Carolina. Upon her separation from Forrest in 1963, she and her children settled in the suburbs of Atlanta, where she taught elementary school in the DeKalb County School System for over 30 years. In 1991, she married Walter G. Mussler, and they moved to northern Georgia, where they enjoyed homes on Lake Hartwell (Lavonia) and Clarkesville. In every place she lived, Edie was an active member of the Presbyterian church. She was a devoted mother and had a love for music, animals, church and family, all of which she passed on to her children and grandchildren. Edie especially enjoyed singing hymns and had several dogs throughout her life that brought her tremendous joy. She also enjoyed watercolor painting, hiking, flowers, square dancing and traveling. She will be lovingly remembered for her bright smile, sense of humor, kindness, generosity and resilience. Edie is predeceased by her parents, her sister Alma Lancaster Grubbs, and her husband Walt. She is survived by her children and their spouses who mourn her death and give thanks for her life: David Clayton (Julie George), Randy Clayton (Tim Rodden) and Carole Turlington (Jack Turlington). Also mourning her death are her grandchildren: Stephanie Clayton, Joelle Clayton and Hannah Clayton. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews: Jeff Grubbs, Cyndi Horvath, Scott Grubbs, Tim Grubbs and Amy Moore. The family is grateful for the compassionate care Edie received at Parkview Nursing and Rehab (Wilmington, DE), Clary Care Center (Toccoa, GA) and The Oaks at Scenic View (Baldwin, GA). A memorial service will be held electronically via Zoom on Saturday, June 20, 2020, at 11:00 am. Please contact a family member for information on how to join the service virtually. Messages of condolence may be sent to: mccreryandharra.com

Icie Peals Myers, 96, of Tellico Plains and formerly of Alcoa and Maryville, TN went home to be with the Lord Saturday, March 3, 2018 at the home of her son while surrounded by her loving family. The oldest of 14 children of the late J.C. “Lum” and Ellen Hamby Peals, Icie was in the first graduating class of the original Tellico Plains High School. With three teenage children at home, she enrolled and graduated from Maryville College with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Medical Technology and retired from Blount Memorial Hospital in 1987. After their retirements, she and her husband, Frank “Big Daddy” Myers moved back to Tellico to the Myers Farm. One of her greatest joys was quilting and giving all her children and grandchildren several “special” quilts. An expert seamstress, she made many custom clothes including cheerleading uniforms, wedding gowns and bridesmaid dresses and she won several awards for her dresses in the Autumn Gold Festival. She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Myers, Sr.; a sister, Clara Peals and six brothers, Elick “Red”, Clifford, Doug, Charles, Elzie and infant brother, Jerry Peals and daughter-in-law, Margie Myers. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Patsy and Dwight Broome of Maryville, TN, sons and daughter -in-law, Frank Jr. and Sharon Myers of Tellico Plains, TN and David Myers of Maryville, TN ; sisters and brothers-in-law, Eva Myers of Maryville, TN, Johnnie and Frank Fletcher of Trenton, KY, Robbie Boring of Beech Island, SC, and Delzie and Hubert Young of Tellico Plains, TN; brothers and sister-in-law, J.C. “Jr” and Betty Peals Tellico Plains, TN and Verlin Peals of Etowah, TN; sisters-in-law, Martha, Marilyn, Janie and Gina Peals and Dollie Myers; 7 grandchildren and spouses,Pam and Randy Shofner, Deborah and Randy Garland, Teresa and Billy Smith, Bud and Tammy Myers, Lee Ann and Tim Adams, Dana and Steve Ryan and Rebekah Myers; 12 great grandchildren, Bonnie Shofner, Maranda and Damon Shaw, Jodie Underwood, Amber and Jeb Best, Dalton and Leah Myers, Andrew and Alexander Yager, Ethan Garland, Will Smith; 3 great-great grandchildren, Maverick, Skyler and Mayvin Shaw; and several nieces and nephew. A special thank you to Home Health Care of East TN and Hospice and to all Granny Icie’s caregivers, Martha Harris, Debbie and Sally McLemore, Melissa Morgan, Lisa Abercrombie, Joyce Gourley, and Carrie Chapman. Internment at Brown Hill Cemetery. Great-grandsons and great-great grandsons served as pallbearers.

Harriette Blankenship Myers, age 84, of Athens, Georgia passed away on Sunday, September 17, 2023. Harriette was born in College Park, Georgia.

Muriel “Mimi” Louise Naber, age 84, of Newark, DE, passed away Thursday, March 16, 2023. She was born in Rochester, NY on August 19, 1938, to the late Earl and Louise (Adams) Mattes. Mimi is survived by her children, Lauren Muriel Adams, and Brian Lee Naber; granddaughter, Amber Nichole Naber; brother, Robert Mattes; and sister, Shelia Dunn. In addition to her parents, Mimi is preceded by her loving husband, Francis James Naber, Jr.

Sandra Kring Nalley passed away October 1, 2019.

William Jackson Napier, 79, died Thursday, November 17, 2022 at home in the company of his devoted wife, Susan Kay (Quigg) Napier, from complications of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Sizemore Napier and Martha Jackson Napier. Those grieving his loss include Susan, daughter Ellen Bethany Napier and family (Robert, Theo, and Fletcher Chaney) of Philadelphia, PA, son Brian Jackson Napier and family (Kerry, Max, and Yana Napier) of Columbus, OH and brother John Sizemore Napier and family (Michelle, Tassie, and Will Jackson Napier) of Loudon, TN.

Bill was born January 17, 1943 in Knoxville, TN. The son of two educators, he studied at four different universities after graduating from Maryville College, and his career was largely devoted to advocating for higher education in Ohio.

Good Old Bill especially enjoyed: his 4 grandchildren, bluegrass music, country ham, Alabama Crimson Tide football, collecting miniature toy soldiers, New England autumns, photography, biscuits & gravy, knowing Jim Rhodes and Vern Riffe, the Grand Ole Opry, international travel, Cleveland’s West Market, banana pudding, and Susan.

John S. “Rusty” Nash, Jr., age 74, of Glasgow, KY, passed away Wednesday, March 15, 2023, at Jewish Hospital in Louisville, KY. He was born June 18, 1948, in Madison, the son of Ruth (Lohr) and John S. Nash, Sr. He married Ann Elizabeth Fowler in Thompson, Ohio on August 31, 1973.

John was a 1966 graduate of Madison High School.  He received an Associate Degree at Lakeland Community College and a Bachelor’s Degree at Maryville College.  He worked as an insurance agent, was a published author, teacher, District Executive for BSA, laborer, and a small business owner.

Active in his community, John was involved with youth wrestling programs, scouting, Rotary and Kiwanis.  His favorite activities were with his family.  This included supporting his two boys in sports, scouts, church, and any other activities they were interested in.  He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, and writing.  The thing he loved most was helping people, and that started with doing his best to provide a good life and foundation for his wife and children and making sure that family came first.

He is survived by his wife, Ann Elizabeth (Fowler) Nash; sons, Stephen (Kim) Nash, Matthew (Susanne Firestone) Nash; grandchildren, Chandler, Nathaniel, Alexander, Gracie, Luke, Michael, Logan; sisters, Debbie Reese, Eva Longer, Melissa Parish, Ethel Nash; brothers, George Nash.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Ed and Andrew Nash.

Doris Louise Smith Naundorf, 95, Canandaigua, NY entered eternal rest on June 2, 2020. Doris was born in Paterson, NJ in 1924 & married her next-door neighbor, Charles H. Naundorf, in 1946. Doris contributed stories, poems, & essays to newspapers in Paterson, NJ, Rochester, NY, the Henrietta Post, & the Canandaigua Daily Messenger. She was the editor of the Allstate Insurance Company employee publication for Western & Upstate NY. Doris & Charlie attended Maryville College, Maryville, Tennessee. Doris received her Bachelors of Communication degree from Empire State College at the age of 57. At the age of 86, she wrote a book, The Stories of Emmy. Doris is survived by three of her daughters Judy Klejment, Claire Streb, Lisa Taylor-Austin & was pre-deceased by her husband & eldest daughter, Geryll Norris. She is survived by her three grandchildren Courtney Lutz (Ed), Holly Scalzo (John) & Erin Nelson (Nathan), and two great-granddaughters, Lily & Olivia & one great grandson, Henry. Doris was very active in Mendon Church while her health allowed it.

Nancy Jane Naylor Navratil passed away on Dec. 7, 2013, at 3:30 p.m. at Blount Memorial Hospital after suffering a massive stroke. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Robert Norman Navratil, her parents, Joseph Heschol Naylor and Sadie Pearl Jackson Naylor, and her daughter Becky Navratil Kerns. Survivors include her daughter, Angie Navratil Walker; son, Joe Navratil; granddaughters, Jessica Nicole Walker, Miranda Michelle Navratil; grandsons Jake Robert Walker, Bradley Ashton Kerns, Thomas Wayne Walker and Christopher Lynn Walker; great-granddaughter Sadie Jane-Lynn Walker. She is also survived by her Aunt Phoebe Jackson Jordan. Honorary mention: lifelong friends Sylvia Nicely Markey, Emma Jean Leek Huddleston, Mary Ann Wright Harding and Dillard Mynatt. Special thanks to Peggy Hypes, Martha Hess, Jean Wortman and Joanne Booker for countless hours of friendship, care and devotion to Mom. Nancy was born in Norfolk, Va., and moved to Knoxville with her family as a small child. She graduated from Central High School in 1950 in the top 5 percent of her class. In 1954, she graduated from Maryville College cum laude. She went on to teach high school English at several schools, including Powell High School in Knoxville. In the 1960s, she returned to Maryville College where she served as the editor of senior studies and taught English. In Chicago, she worked for the American Bar Association to conduct a membership drive. Nancy was an active member of Highland Presbyterian Church for 56 years, where she taught Sunday School, served as an elder, played handbells and participated in the Happy Highlanders group. Throughout her life, Nancy was an active participant in the performing arts: the Maryville College theater, the Maryville Playmakers, Chilhowee Club and directed a play at her assisted living home. Nancy was an editor of books and wrote a book of poems. She enjoyed playing the piano, dulcimer, knitting, board games, bingo, crossword puzzles and participated in mission project work. Nancy was involved throughout her life in many clubs and organizations. Nancy was a loving daughter, wife, mother, grandma and great-grandma.

Mrs. Naylor, born Oct. 26, 1921 in her grandmother’s house in Giles County, passed away quietly March 22, 2018 in her home in Lebanon. She moved to Lebanon from Nashville after she retired from the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools in 1985. She was a graduate of Maryville College, where she received her bachelor’s degree in high school education. She taught school at Goodlettsville High School for several years, and after she had eight wonderful children, she began to teach in the Metro Nashville Schools. She taught at Dalewood, Jere Baxter, Lockeland and Kirkpatrick Elementary schools. She taught special education classes for special needs children, and in her last two years, was principal at Lockeland and Kirkpatrick Elementary schools. Mary Ruth was a member of Grace United Methodist Church in Mt. Juliet and had raised her family in Inglewood Methodist Church in Nashville. At Grace UMC, she was an active member of the Bible Seekers Class, Ruth Circle and Young at Heart. She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, George W. Naylor II; two younger sisters, Doris Hayes, Esther Thompson; older brother, Buddy Baker; and grandson, George W. Naylor IV. Mary Ruth is survived by her eight children, George W. Naylor III, and his wife, Kathy, Walter Naylor, and his wife, Cinda, Steve Naylor, and his wife, Susie, Nancy King, and her husband, Bob, Linda Cagle, and her husband, Terry, Bobby Naylor, and his wife, Sharon, Bettye Naylor, Bill Naylor, and his wife, Sonya; 12 grandchildren; and 15 great grandchildren. Serving as active pallbearers will be her grandsons, David Naylor, Tyler Naylor, Steven Williams, Chris Williams, Rick Naylor and Brock Bates. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be members of the Bible Seekers Class: Rena Bass, Randolph Wilson, S.R. Daniels, Shirley Jaskolka, Jackson Zumbro and David Devine. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Mary Ruth to Grace United Methodist Church building fund at 2905 N. Mt. Juliet Road, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122 or Alive Hospice at 1710 Patterson St., Nashville, TN 37203. Hermitage Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Please visit the online obituary at hermitagefh.com.

Passed away on Sept. 29th,2012. Graduated from Maryville College and Louisville Theological Seminary. Alfred served as pastor to several Presbyterian churches He was also a WWII veteran. He went to Maryville along with other vets returning. His daughter Barbara Nead ’70 was 2 yrs. old at the time and always joked that she went to MC twice and even had some of the same profs as her father.Alfred is Survived by wife of 69 yrs. and four children, including Barbara Nead, class of 1970.

John Neff, Jr. 99, Sheffield, passed away on Tuesday, March 7, 2023. Visitation will be Friday, March 10, from 12:30 – 2:00 p.m. at Morrison Funeral Home, Tuscumbia. The funeral service will immediately follow in the funeral home chapel with Jeff Abrams officiating. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery, Sheffield.

John was born in Sheffield in 1923. He attended Sheffield High School, Maryville College, and Auburn University. During World War II, he served with the US Army in Europe. At the conclusion of the war, he returned to the United States and married Helen I. McWilliams. John was employed for forty years with the Southern Freight Bureau, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Upon retirement, he and Helen returned to Sheffield.

John was a member of the Tuscumbia Church of Christ, VFW Post 4919 in Sheffield, and American Legion Post 31 in Tuscumbia. He worked with several volunteer programs in the area and was honored as Volunteer of the Year in 2007 by Colbert County Homeland Security RSVP.

John was preceded in death by his wife of seventy-six years, Helen I. Neff; his parents, Catherine Lee Neff and J.P. Neff, Jr.; son, Michael Lee Neff; sister, Rachel Lee Neff; and brother, Robert C. Neff.

He is survived by his nephews, Spencer Neff, Jon Neff, and Clay Neff.

Jacqueline Odom Nelson, 90 of Cordele, Georgia passed away November 4,2016. Jackie was born June 1,1926 in Atlanta, Georgia to Ben and Rowena Odom. Jackie was a graduate of the University of Georgia where she was a member of Phi Beta Phi Sorority, and there she also met her husband, Ed Nelson. They lived in Atlanta, where Jackie taught kindergarten before they retired to Cordele, Georgia. There, she was a member of Pinecrest Baptist Church and the Sara Wiley Sunday School Class. She also volunteered as a Pink Lady at Crisp Regional Hospital and generally lifted the spirits of people she met with her wit, determined optimism, and curiosity about all things. She was preceded in death by her husband, her sister, Joyce Odom Christianson, and her grandson J.P. Barge. She is survived by her four children, Susan (John) Barge of Cordele Ga., Ben (Bonnie) Nelson of Canton, Ga., Ed (Cheryl) Nelson of Bay Minette, Ala., and Peggy (Paul) Craig of Edmonds, Wa., eleven grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren. Visitation will be Sunday, November 6, from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm at the home of Susan and John Barge, and funeral services will be at Hughes and Wright Funeral Home on Monday, November 7 at 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in her name to Reflections Hospice at 202 East 4^^ Ave, Cordele, GA. 31015 or a charity of choice.

Col. Ethel Alice Nelson entered eternal rest on January 31, 2022, in San Antonio, Texas, at the age of 92.

She was born on October 19, 1929, in Jamestown, New York, to David E. Sr. and Ethel S. (Bratt) Nelson.

She is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Edna Mae Nelson; brothers, Frank C. Nelson and David E. Nelson, Jr. Her sister, Nellie Jane (Nelson) Heppel, joined her in heaven on February 6, 2022. Ethel is survived by 8 loving nieces and nephews, their children; and other family members and friends.

Col. Nelson had a distinguished 27 year military career in the United States Air Force, serving from 1957 – 1984. She was a graduate of Maryville College, the University of Rochester, and a received a Master’s degree from Columbia University. She was stationed at many locations throughout her career such as Hickam AFB HI, Hill AFB UT, Travis AFB CA, Wright-Patterson AFB OH, Tachikawa, Japan and London, England, to name a few. She also founded the Society of Air Force Nurses Incorporated and held a number of prominent positions within the organization.

Col. Nelson was an advocate in community affairs and her church – Epworth United Methodist Church. She enjoyed reading, golf, travel and her 2 dogs – Little Boy and Little Girl.

Virginia Ann “Ginny” Nelson, 85, of Richmond, Va., died on Thursday, September 30, 2021, surrounded by her family. Born on November 8, 1935, in New York, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Maryville College. She retired from a 20 plus year career as an administrator at River Road Presbyterian Church. Her example as a Christian, a wife and a mother will have a lasting impact on her loving family. She was an avid gardener and enjoyed all of God’s creations, especially dogs. She was active in many churches/communities in her lifetime and was a key leader in her time at Zion Christian Church in Beaverdam where she was instrumental in the creation of the Western Hanover Emergency Action Team (“WHEAT”) whose mission was to serve the people of Western Hanover in times of need. WHEAT has grown tremendously and continues to thrive today.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Warren John (“Bud”) Nelson; and her sister, Dorothy Sedat (Eddie). She is survived by her three children, Debbie Stroop (Jerry), Richard (Cheryl) and Robin Carlton (Brian); six grandchildren, Adam and Corey Stroop, Daniel and Carrie Nelson, Kayla Pruett (Josh), Holly Carlton; and her sister, Marjorie Rogers.

Beverly Joan Nereng, 87, of Blair and formerly Arcadia died on Tuesday, December 10, 2013, at Grandview Care Center in Blair, Wisconsin. Beverly was born on June 7, 1926, in Toledo, Iowa to Myrrel and Edith (Weaklan) Muetzel. Beverly was a very caring and loving person who was open to share her heart with her family, friends and community. Beverly grew up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa with her parents and five sisters. She graduated from High School and then proceeded to attend college in Tennessee receiving a Bachelors of Art Degree. She continued her education at Union Theological Seminary in New York City, graduating with a Masters Degree with a focus on church studies. She worked in churches in New York City, Texas, and Iowa. Eight years later she received another degree in teaching. She taught 2nd and 3rd grade in Cedar Rapids Iowa, Minneapolis and Arcadia. She taught for 25 years retiring in 1981. Beverly was a member of Presbyterian, Methodist and Lutheran Churches and where she could grow in her faith and share with others. Beverly married Richard R. Laurence (Mehtodist Minister who also attended Union Theological Seminary where they met) on June 9, 1951, in Cedar Rapid, Iowa. They had two children, Becky and Dawn and they were married for 6 years. Richard died on April 27, 1957. Beverly raised her two daughters as a single parent for 14 years. She then married Einar Lund (Dairy Farmer) on July 25, 1970, at the Tamarack Lutheran Church, Norway Valley, Arcadia. They were married for 16 years. Einar died on September 4, 1986. Beverly then married Harvey Ray Nereng on August 8, 1988, in Drummond Island, Michigan and they were very happily married for 25+ years. Beverly is survived by her husband, Ray Nereng of Blair, two daughters, Becky (Steve) Severson of Arcadia and Dawn (Allen) Shepherd of Arcadia, 6 grandchildren: Gretchen (Zack) Severson-Miller of Minneapolis, Hans Severson of Minneapolis, Stefan Severson of La Crosse, Robert Shepherd of Onalaska, Anthony (Cindi) Shepherd of Winona, and Travis (Barbara) Shepherd of Switzerland. Three great grandchildren: Devin Lemay of Cadott, Grace and ZJ Miller of San Diego, CA, 1 sister, Jackie Wims of Valencia, CA, nieces and nephews She was preceding in death by her parents, husbands, 3 sisters: Barbara McCauley, Jean Collinge, and Mary DeVries.

Verne Nesbitt, born Verne Allen Feeback in Colville, Kentucky on May 16, 1925, died peacefully at home with her two daughters, Marcia Nesbitt and M.B. Nesbitt on Aug. 21, 2016. She grew up in Cynthiana, KY, where she was an active member of the Presbyterian Church. In high school, she was an A student, a member of the cheerleading squad, and played drums in the marching band. She went to Maryville College with the support of her community, and went on to attain her nursing degree at Vanderbilt University. Following that, she helped to set up the first experimental Geriatric Unit at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore Maryland. She then became engaged in Obstetrical Nursing, where she loved delivering and caring for babies. After moving to Syracuse, New York in 1960, she committed her life to volunteerism, and became the National President of Literacy Volunteers of America. Her next passion was working as the Director of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program. Her final position was as the Director of the Foster Grandparent Program, where she paired seniors with developmentally challenged children, in order to enrich the lives of both. Verne was an active member of Park Central Presbyterian Church for 50 years, where she participated in many groups and Church associations. Her vibrant and energetic nature endeared her to those around her, who affectionately referred to her as Mama Verne. She was a beloved friend and neighbor, whose home was open to all. She was always caring, interested, and involved in the lives of those around her. Verne is survived by her two daughters, Marcia Nesbitt of San Diego, California, and M.B. Nesbitt of Wilmington, Vermont, and her four grandchildren: Travis Beeman-Nesbitt, Jesse Dallam Nesbitt, Savannah Nesbitt, and Cade Nesbitt, all of Wilmington, VT. Services were held at Park Central Presbyterian Church in Syracuse, New York. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate a small donation in her name to the American Alzheimer’s Association.

Passed away Dec 10, 2007 due to a severe fall. He received his Master degree from Middle Tennessee State and EDS degree from University of Georgia. He was working on his doctorate in Physical Education when he passed. He retired after 42 years of coaching football, baseball and wrestling in Gwinnett County Georgia. He was married to the former Christine Stephens for 54 years at the time of his passing.

Jean L. Newcomer (nee Barnes), of Madison, WI, died on May 23, 2020 at Agrace Hospice in Madison, WI. She was 99 years old. Jean was born January 28, 1921 in Wilkes-Barre, PA to Olin and May (Petersen) Barnes. She graduated from Maryville College in Maryville, TN, where she earned a BA degree in psychology. Later she did post graduate study in library science at Northern Illinois University. Upon graduation from Maryville, she moved to Illinois to become social editor of the Belvidere Daily Republican. There she met and later married Edward Newcomer. In 1950 she applied for a staff position at Ida Public Library. She served two years as reference librarian and 38 years as the library director. At her retirement she was surprised by an editorial in the Belvidere Daily Republican entitled “Give Your Regards to Jean”. In addition to her love of books she was interested in music, gardening and painting. She was co-author of two books, For the Love of Ida, a history of library services in her community and Speechless: Living with Spasmodic Dysphonia, about the vocal cord disorder she developed at the age of 15. In the latter part of her life she began painting oil landscapes and exhibited annually at area art shows. She sold most of her paintings and was pleased one year when she was runner-up for the “Best of Show” award. She has made over 600 decorative posters, using small colored squares, and posted them regularly on her apartment doors at Middleton Glen and Oakwood Assisted Living. Jean is survived by a son and daughter: Stephen Newcomer (Diane) of Burnsville, MN and Gale Barber of Middleton and two granddaughters, Amelia Barber (Matt Blango) of Jena, Germany and Maggie Barber-Hasanovic (Nedim Hasanovic) of Los Angeles, CA. She was preceded in death by her husband, sister Hazel Barnes, and brother Paul Barnes. Private graveside services will be held at a later date at Belvidere Cemetery in Belvidere, IL. Memorials may be made in Jean’s name to the Ida Public Library, 320, N. State Street, Belvidere, IL.

Rev. Wallace Eugene Newman – 105, went home to be with his Heavenly Father on February 28, 2019. Rev. Newman was born September 24, 1913 in Adams County, Nebraska. He became a Methodist Minister in 1942. Rev. Newman lovingly served his Lord and shared his Love with everyone he met. Rev. Newman was preceded in death by his wife, Anna Belle McNutt Newman (August 1980). He is survived by his two daughters, Patricia Miner and Ruth Hahn; two grandchildren, Kimberly Childs and Timothy Minor; and two great grandchildren, Katharine and Benjamin Childs. Calling hours will be Monday, March 4, 2019 from 5 – 7 pm at Bridges Funeral Home, 5430 Rutledge Pike, Knoxville, Tennessee 37924. A Celebration of Life service for Rev. Wallace Eugene Newman will be held at Asbury United Methodist Church in Knoxville, Tennessee, Tuesday, March 5, 2019 with Rev. David Smith and Ashley Helton officiating. The family will travel in procession immediately following the service to Woodlawn Cemetery for graveside services. Family request in lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the Asbury United Methodist Church Memorial Fund. Bridges Funeral Home is handling the arrangements for the Newman family. www.bridgesfuneralhome.com 865-523-4999

Gilbert A. Nicholas died December 21, 2020 in Boynton Beach FL.

Robert Michael Nick age of 66 passed peacefully December 26th, 2022, at home with his family. Born August 3, 1956, to Lee & Wanda Nick in Sacramento, CA at McClellan Air Force Base. Graduated from Everett High School 1974. He entered the ministry as a Worship Leader at Grandview Baptist Church then was called to Full-Time Ministry at First Baptist Church of Friendsville later moving to Calvary Baptist Church of Alcoa where he was Ordained as a Minister and finally served at Dotson Memorial Baptist Church as Pastor of Worship and Senior Adults. 

He is survived by his wife Mary Nick, Mother Wanda Nick Clegg, son Michael Nick & Orsolya, their daughters Avery & Isla of Bradenton, FL, son Andy Nick & wife Maggie, their daughters Elsie, Lizzie, Nora, and son Wyatt of Maryville, TN. Preceded by his sister Ann Marie Nick on March 31, 2005. 

Grace A. (Greenawalt) Nieto, 84, formerly of Huntingdon, PA, passed away on Wednesday, August 3, 2016, at Commonwealth Assisted Living at Front Royal, Front Royal, VA. Born August 14, 1931 in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late John Bruce and Lucetta (Stephan) Greenawalt. She was united in marriage to Dr. Jose C. Nieto on June 28, 1959 in San Fernando, Spain. Dr. Nieto preceded her in death on March 25, 2016, after 56 years of marriage. Mrs. Nieto is survived by a daughter, Jenny R. Nieto and her husband, Rex E. Cowgill, of Broad Run, VA; and two granddaughters, Chelsea C. Cowgill of Grand Rapids, MI, and Katie A. Gilbert of Fairfield, PA. She is also survived by three siblings, Bruce Greenawalt and his wife, Judy, of North Carolina, Mary Whitacre and her husband, Jim, of Pennsylvania, and Iva Welge of Texas. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Christina L. (Nieto) Gilbert on December 26, 2003; and a sister, Jean Maurer. She was a volunteer for many years at the Huntingdon County Library, as well as, the Juniata College Library, both of Huntingdon. Mrs. Nieto received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Maryville College, Maryville, TN. She was employed as a teacher; and for the first several years of her career she taught in numerous locations including, Cuba, Utah, and various other states. Subsequently, she became employed as a Spanish and English teacher at Juniata Valley High School, Alexandria, where she worked for many years until her retirement. Mrs. Nieto was a world traveler; and loved traveling alongside her husband. She also enjoyed reading and hiking. Above everything else, she treasured spending time with her family, who will remember her as being an exceptional wife, mother, and grandmother. At the request of the family there will be no public visitation. A graveside service was held at 1:00 P.M. on Tuesday, August 30, 2016 at Riverview Cemetery, 245 Standing Stone Avenue, Huntingdon, with the Reverend Christy Dowdy officiating. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in remembrance of Grace A. Nieto may be made to the Huntingdon County Library, 330 Penn Street, Huntingdon, PA 16652, or to the Alzheimer’s Association, Greater PA Chapter, 2595 Interstate Drive, Suite 100, Harrisburg, PA 17110, or to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Western PA/ West Virginia Chapter, 333 E. Carson Street, Suite 441, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.