Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist-East Brainerd Chapel

09/23/2025

Celebrating the life of Dr. Robert Myers

09/16/2025

Ronald Eugene Hawkins, age 60, of Chattanooga, Tennessee passed away on Sunday, September 14, 2025. Ronald was born in Chattanooga, TN.
An interment for Ronald will be held Thursday, September 18, 2025 from 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM at Forest Hills Cemetery, 4016 Tennessee Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37410.

09/14/2025

Dr. Robert Woodrow Myers, 102, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025, at Ashwood Square Retirement Community.
He was born on August 21, 1923, in Mount Vernon, Il., to the late Rollie and Esther Myers. Born prematurely and not expected to survive, Robert defied the odds and lived a remarkable 102 years.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mattie Ruth Myers; his second wife, Elizabeth “Libby” Myers; and his son, Dr. Howell Dalton Jr.
Robert is survived by his daughters, Laura Jean Myers-Ross (Steve), Linda Kay Myers, Bonnie Jane Peterson, and Delinda Davis (Lonnie); his daughter-in-law, Tracie Calfee Dalton; and his beloved grandchildren: Rebekah Kinsella (Dan), Christine van der Meer (Nic), Paul Peterson (Daniela), Charles Ross, Barron Williamson (Stephanie), DeLisa Morrow (Matthew), April Rodman (Jack), Ashley Yarborough (David), George Dalton, and Marie Herman (Josh). He was also very proud of his great-grandchildren: Jocelyn, Arjen, Easton, Jordan, Sharon, Landon, Brianna, Caiden, Libby, and Trip—and his great-great-granddaughter, Madyson.
Robert graduated from City High School in 1942, where he played both basketball and football. When World War II broke out, he joined the U.S. Navy and was selected for the V-12 program, which allowed him to complete medical school during his service. He graduated from Tulane Medical School in 1946.
Following military service at Camp Lejune and in Puerto Rico, Robert returned to Tulane to complete his training in Internal Medicine. In 1951, he moved to Chattanooga to begin private practice.
Throughout his medical career, he served as president of the Chattanooga Medical Society and chief of medical staff at Memorial Hospital. He was also a founding member of Volunteers in Medicine in Chattanooga, an organization dedicated to providing free healthcare for the uninsured. His friend, the late Robert Demos, once said Dr. Myers cared for “half the people who currently live in Chattanooga.”
Robert loved the outdoors and shared that passion with many. He spent time at YMCA Camp Ocoee and famously climbed Mount LeConte on his 80th birthday. He was a devoted member of Christ United Methodist Church, where he taught Sunday School and Bible studies for many years.
A true adventurer, Robert traveled to every continent, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and hiking to the base camp of Mount Everest. He often shared his travel experiences through slide presentations for local groups in Chattanooga.
Later in life, after marrying Libby, Robert discovered a love for golf and was especially proud of scoring a hole-in-one at Council Fire at the age of 92. He also enjoyed playing cards with friends and family at Ashwood Square.
The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to all the caregivers who supported Robert in his final months, especially Tricia Tigner, Debra Harris, Rogeria Coimbra and Leslie Hawkins.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Volunteers in Medicine (VIM) or YMCA Camp Ocoee, two organizations close to Robert’s heart.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, Sept. 23, from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. at the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home.
A celebration of Robert’s life will follow at 1 p.m., with Rev. David Hall officiating. Interment will take place at Chattanooga National Cemetery.
Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, 8214 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, Tn. 37421.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com.

09/14/2025

Marion Markowicz, the best of mothers, the best of friends, died peacefully on September 13, 2025 at 83 years old. She was preceded in death by her mother, father, and sister (Grace, Hym, and Nora Michaels) and is survived by her 2 daughters, Leah (Geoff) Rhodes and Eve Markowicz; her grandchildren, Simon & Micah Rhodes of Ringgold GA and Avery Markowicz & Sylvia Thomas of Jacksonville FL; and a gaggle of dear, dear friends.
Belovedly known as “bunny” by her grandsons and granddaughter, Marion lived a generous life. She constantly and consistently gave to those around her, always putting others first and expecting nothing in return.
After earning degrees from Mercyhurst & Bryn Mawr Colleges, Marion dedicated her life to helping and caring for others as a social worker. She touched lives in every setting she worked, leaving a lasting impact on her clients, their families, and her co-workers. Her nurturing and protective nature, combined with her calm and steady demeanor, brought great comfort, joy, and guidance to everyone around her.
Marion had a quick, sharp wit that stayed with her until her final days. She loved her family, her friends, her many pets, and a good treat from Dairy Queen. Her love for others was a testament to her beautiful and compassionate (and sometimes feisty!) spirit that will be profoundly missed.
The family will celebrate Marion’s life privately at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring her with a donation to Four Diamonds, whose mission is to ensure every child has access to superior medical care and comprehensive support to conquer cancer. Checks can be made to “Four Diamonds” and sent to:
Annville Cleona High School
c/o Four Diamonds
500 South White Oak Street
Annville, PA 17003
Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 East Brainerd Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com.

09/04/2025

Tina Yvonne Howard, age 68, of Ooltewah, went home to be with her Lord Sunday, August 31, 2025.
She was born in Chattanooga, TN to the late James & Wilma Fisher.
Tina was a 1974 graduate of Hixson High School and attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
She was a member of Bayside Baptist Church. She was also a longtime member of Christ Place Church in Flowery Branch, GA where she was also employed in finance.
In addition to her parents, her sister, Vivian Fisher preceded her in death.
Survivors include her loving husband of 32 years, Dana Howard; daughter, Christina Ervin of Chattanooga; grandchildren Anson and Daniel Thompson; brother, Dennis (Lynn) Fisher and sister, Iris Fisher both of Hixson; and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends Saturday, September 6, 2025 from 1-3 PM. The funeral service will be at 3:00 PM in the East Brainerd chapel with Pastor Jeff Crook officiating.
Arranements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 East Brainerd Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com.

08/26/2025

Kathey Elizabeth “Kate” Trundle, age 73, of Chattanooga went home to be with our Lord on Thursday, August 21, 2025.
She was born April 9, 1952 in Chattanooga to the late Edward & Lanell Norris.
Kate was a graduate of City High School and attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
Her brother, Mike Norris preceded her in death.
Kate was a member of Ridgedale Baptist Church for 21 years. She had previously attended East Ridge Baptist Church. Kate was a prayer warrior at both ministries for more than 30 years. She was a member of the Modern Quilters Guild.
She was a retired CFO of her family business Norris & Sons after many years of service.
Survivors include her husband of 44 years, Mark H. Trundle of Chattanooga; son, Jesse E. (Cynthia) Trundle; granddaughters, Allison J. Trundle and Elizabeth L. Trundle all of Sale Creek, TN; brother, Scott (Mary) Norris of Steamboat Springs, CO; and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, August 27, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Ridgedale Baptist Church (1831 Hickory Valley Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421). Funeral service will begin at 12:00 p.m. with Dr. Doug Plumlee officiating. Kate will be laid to rest at Chattanooga National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, Kate was an avid lover of animals and the family requests that memorial contributions may be made to ASPCA in her memory at www.aspca.org.
Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 East Brainerd Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com.

08/22/2025

Lawrence Milton Gass Jr. passed away peacefully at home on August 19, 2025. He was born at home on October 19, 1940, the son of Lawrence Milton Gass Sr. and Bessie Mae Dawkins Wright Gass, in Trenton, Georgia. He grew up on a Ringgold, Georgia farm and graduated with Ringgold High School Class of ’58. In his early years, he attended Victory Baptist Church, Rossville, Georgia, and later attended Christ United Methodist.
He is survived by his wife of 48+ years, Pamela Jane Martin Gass, his daughters, Deena (Allen) Parson, Susie (Sid) Brownsey, Tamela Raeburn, and Elizabeth Gass (TJ Shockley); sister-in-law Brenda Gass; grandchildren/bonuses: Timothy (Sharla) Gass, Jasa Brownsey, Emma Parson, Wyatt and Annalee Shockley; great-grandchildren/ bonuses: Adeline Grace and Corbin Walker Gass, Joseph and Leeanne Reker; a very special niece and her family, Denise (Dan), Lexi, and Luke Trueblood. His nephews: Randy (Susan) Wright, Tim (Mel) Gass, John Gass, Stanley Gass. His nieces: Denny (Wally) Morehead, Dianne (Darwin) Thier, Lori Speal, Stacie (Donnie) Garmany, Tracey (Bruce) Webb, Marcia Teeters, Gina (Andy) Williamson, and Sandy Gass. Many grand/great-grand nieces and nephews. His special friends, Randy & Danita Headrick and Jackie & Lynn Daughtery. And lots of cousins - he really enjoyed the annual Gass Cousins Reunion.
He was predeceased by his parents; his brothers: Bill Wright (Betty), Gene (Bernice), Lebron, John, and David Gass, Deena and Susie’s mother, Reba Causby Crowder; his niece, Shelby Garmany; his nephews: Terry Gass and Lane Trueblood; and his son-in-law, Robert Raeburn.
Larry lived a full and remarkable life. He loved to travel, meet new people, and never met a stranger. Always a gentleman, his careers included service in the U.S. Navy as an ET aboard the U.S.S. Estes AG 12 and U.S.S. Summit County LST-1146; 40 years with IBM; time on the board of The Senter School; delivering buses and trucks across the U.S. and Canada; and driving for the Olympics. He finished his working years in the Ooltewah Walmart Sporting Goods Department, where he enjoyed helping customers with hunting and fishing needs.
There was little Larry could not install or repair from cars and dishwashers to wiring and hardwood floors. Known as a true “Fixer of All Things,” he was always ready to lend a hand. Above all, he will be remembered as the Best Girl Dad Ever.
The family will receive friends from 4 to 8 pm on Saturday, August 23rd and from 2 to 3 pm on Sunday, August 24th in the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home. A funeral service to follow in the chapel at 3 pm. Burial will occur at 11:00 am on Monday, August 25th at Lakewood Memory Gardens South in Rossville, Georgia.
Please share your thoughts and memories at: www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com
Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, 8214 East Brainerd Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421.

08/17/2025

Jacqueline F. “Jackie” Wall, age 93, of East Brainerd, died peacefully Saturday, August 16, 2025 at her home surrounded by her family.
Born in Edinburg, Texas, where she was “Miss Sweetheart” of Edinburg High School. She was the daughter of the late Melvin William and Lillian Christina Larson Freeze.
She was a retired head bank teller with SunTrust Bank and was a longtime member of the Brainerd Hills Presbyterian Church. She spent most of summers fishing at St. George Island, FL. She enjoyed doing crafts and spending time with her family, especially her grandkids.
Her husband, John W. Wall and sister, Jeanie Gilliam preceded her in death.
Survivors include her three daughters, Debbie (Ken) Waldrop, Vicki (Jeff) Cox, both of Chattanooga and Amy (David) Ives of Dunlap; four grandchildren, Whitney (Zeke) Tucker, Ryan (Christie) Cox, Katie (Justin) Nichols and Tate Ives; two great-grandsons, Callan Nichols and Wild Tucker; one sister, Peggy Green of Austin, TX; and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends Tuesday, August 19, 2025 from 5-8 p.m. at the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home.
Graveside services will be held Wednesday, August 20, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Chattanooga National Cemetery (1200 Bailey Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37404) with Rev. Jeff Cox officiating.
A special thank you to all the staff of Hearth Hospice, especially Becky (CNA) and Misty (RN).
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hearth Hospice (513 Georgia Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37403).
Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, 8214 E. Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.
Plese share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com.

08/10/2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Betty Hurt Penley, who left us peacefully on August 8th at the age of 89 years old to be with her heavenly Father. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to all who knew her.
Betty Penley was born on December 21st, 1935 in Griffin, Georgia to William and Rosa Lee Hurt. She spent her early years in Griffin, later moving to Chattanooga, Tennessee. As she grew older, she made a lasting impact on everyone she met through her kindness, selflessness, and unwavering faith.
Betty worked at Siskin Rehabilitation Hospital for 31 years, retiring in August of 2024 at the age of 88.
Through her dedication and hard work, she was able to leave a lasting legacy. Her true passion, however, was always her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, always striving to put others before herself.
Betty was preceded in death by her husband James Penley and is survived by her oldest sister Marjorie Vaughn Weldon. Her legacy lives on in her children, Karen Smith, Tracy Wadley (Dan) and Kelly Martin (Dwight), her grandchildren, Hollie Shelton, Jill Jitima (Nick), Zech Smith (Janine), Jason Smith (Amanda), Meg Arboleda (Juan), Kelsey Whitworth (Luke), Ryan Wadley (Margaret), Sean Wadley (Carolyn), Seth Wadley (Bren), Abby Ball (Jordan), Noah Martin (Kaitlyn), and Emma Martin (Ben - fiancée) and her many great-grandchildren as well as her beloved pets, Daisy and Sassy. She was a constant source of love, warmth, and laughter, and her memory will forever be cherished.
A private, family viewing will be held with a public graveside to follow at the Chattanooga National Cemetery, 1500 Bailey Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37404 at 11:00 am on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.
From her office window, Betty watched the Siskin Healing Gardens come to life.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made in her honor to the Siskin Rehabilitation Hospital Healing Gardens at: www.siskinrehab.org/make-a-gift-now
Please share your thoughts and memories at: www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com
Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, 8214 East Brainerd Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421.

08/10/2025

Larry Steven Casteel, 76, of Chattanooga, Tennessee passed away on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
He was born on July 13,1949 in Kingsport, Tennessee to the late Arthur and Ada Casteel. His sister, Cathy Mancuso, granddaughter, Hope Kassen and nephew, Steven Mancuso precedes him in death.
Larry graduated from Sullivan West High School and then went on to graduate from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville in 1972. In his career Larry was a chemical engineer, a plant manager, VP of sales and marketing and then the VP of acquisitions at Olin Chemical Company.
On June 5,1971 he married the love of his life, Joy Casteel and together with their children and grandchildren they have built a beautiful life together.
Larry was a member of Ooltewah Church of Christ. His hobbies include golf, traveling and playing the guitar, but his favorite thing was being a papa to his grandchildren.
Left behind to cherish his memory is his wife of 54 years, Joy A. Casteel, children, Jennifer Patronilha, Amy Kassen, grandchildren, Annabel Patronilha, Caroline Patronilha, Savannah Kassen, Casteel (Steel) Kassen, sister, Joan Whitten, brother, Mark Casteel, nephews and nieces, Joshua Mancuso, Amanda Lynch, Tim Casteel, Corey Casteel and Bryce Casteel.
A celebration of life for Larry will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at Ooltewah Church of Christ, 3206 Ooltewah Ringgold Road, Ooltewah Tennessee 37363 with Minister Denny Howell officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at: www.st.jude.org
Please share your thoughts and memories at: www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com
Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, 8214 East Brainerd Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421.

08/10/2025

Philip Daniel Hays – 82, of Chattanooga, passed away on Friday, August 8, 2025. He was a beloved husband, dad and grandpa.
He was the son of the late Philip Joshua Hays and Olga Hays and was preceded in death by a brother, Roy Hays.
He was a veteran of the United States Navy, having served from 1968 to 1972. Philip retired from the Social Security Administration.
He was a member of First Christian Church.
Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Norma Hays, three sons, Stephen Hays, David Hays (Sarah), Jonathan Hays (Courtney), five grandchildren, Bettye Kate, Annabelle, Kaitlyn, John Daniel, Rebekah, brother, Patrick Hays, and several nieces and nephews.
Philip was loved by all his family and will be missed by each one. We will see him again someday in Heaven. “We love you dear husband, daddy and grandpa!”
A graveside service will be held at 12:30 pm, Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at Chattanooga National Cemetery with Pastor Chuck Patrick officiating. Military rites will be conducted by the Navy.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Monday, August 11, 2025, at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Bethel Bible Village at https://Bethelbiblevillage.org or to the Tennessee Baptist Children’s Home at https://tennesseechildren.org
Please share your thoughts and memories online at www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com
Arrangements by Chattanooga Funeral Home, East Brainerd Chapel, 8214 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

08/05/2025

Hana Schierling, age 56, of Ooltewah, passed away Saturday, August 2, 2025 at her home surrounded by her family.
Hana was born August 29, 1968 in Prague, Czech Republic.
Her many passions included pollinator gardening, with a particular focus on tropical plants and trees. She had a talent for growing orchids, making her own versions of Czech food, rescuing multiple dogs over the years, and was a true fruit enthusiast.
Her mother, Ana Kettnerova preceded her in death.
Survivors include her loving husband of 25 years, Jason Alan Schierling; children Zora Ann Schierling and Zane Alan Schierling; one brother, Petr Kettner; two Great Danes, Mila and George.
A life celebration service will be held August 11, 2025 from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. The burial will be a private family event on August 12, 2025.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Educational Society in Chattanooga.
Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 East Brainerd Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com.

09/25/2023

SCI is excited to launch the 2024 Scholarship Program application period. Current mortuary students can apply today!
SCI has awarded 477 Mortuary Science students with over $890,000 in awards to date.
This year we will award over $96,000 in scholarships to 25 students with the top award being $10,000!
Access your application by utilizing the QR code. The deadline to apply is December 31, 2023.
Any questions should be directed to Campus.Relations@sci-us.com.

08/07/2023

Entire books have been written about the language of flowers. Throughout the ages and around the world, different types of flowers have been assigned certain sentiments. The kinds you choose for a funeral floral arrangement can carry subtle meanings, and those meanings can vary from culture to culture.

Want to know the meaning of each type of flower? Look through our helpful guide for tips on which flowers to order. Learn more today!

08/06/2023

When it comes to planning your loved one’s funeral service, we cater to your every need—right down to the catering. It’s just one more way we offer service beyond expectation. https://bit.ly/3MccaBj

08/05/2023

The days after losing a loved one can be hard. Financial surprises can make them even harder. Here's what to know about a matter that catches many families off guard.

Families with prepaid cemetery property are often surprised by opening and closing fees, also called cemetery professional service fees. Here's how to avoid being caught off guard by unexpected burial expenses.

08/04/2023

Funerals are not unique to humans. Elephants, dolphins, chimpanzees, crows and other animals have been discovered demonstrating ritualistic mourning behaviors.

08/03/2023

Social connections may help protect health and lengthen life. Scientists are finding that our link to others can have powerful effects on our health. Whether with family, friends, neighbors, romantic partners or others, social connections can influence our biology and well-being. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3tHaSaR

08/02/2023

Extending back to ancient times, the funeral procession allows friends and family to accompany their loved one to the loved one's final resting place or crematory. What should you do if you're part of a funeral procession?

Across different faiths and cultures, the funeral procession is a common tradition. What should you do if you're part of a funeral procession? Brush up on etiquette.

08/01/2023

What makes a Dignity Memorial provider different? They offer unique benefits like Relocation Protection, Lifetime Flexibility, Purchase Protection, Family First Cost Coverage and more. Call us now to learn more. https://bit.ly/3O5D4MQ

07/31/2023

07/30/2023

Those who choose Celestis Memorial Spaceflight know that their loved ones have fulfilled a dream to go where few have gone before in the company of others who shared their fascination with space, their love of the cosmos or their desire to leave this world boundless.

Since 1994, Celestis Memorial Spaceflight has launched ashes into space. Dignity Memorial began offering this unique service for space lovers and adventurers to families a few years ago. It's a remarkable way to celebrate a life.

07/29/2023

Love where you work. Apply today at https://bit.ly/3MW0l23